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Observations/Comments
"I was indeed fortunate to be a member of the JAINA delegation to the Parliament of World's Religions The Conference was a grand success. Our exhibition booth was well coordinated and equipped with books, posters/flyers by Sudhir and Anita Shah
The world is changing is very fast. People are clamoring for the solution to the problems of increased violence, conflicts, stress and tension in their personal lives. It appears that that people are opening up and willing to listen to the ideas offered by cultures and religions other than their own. For us, this new paradigm shift offers an opportunity to make people aware of our philosophy and nonviolent way of life. We need to seize upon this opportunity by expanding our role through interfaith groups all over. We need to open the doors wide for the benefit of all to the Jain way of life.
Nirav Shah on Violin at the Parliament's Closing Ceremony
We were very fortunate to have Amrendramunji, Davendra Keerti Swamiji, Saminiji Pratibha Pragyaji, and Samaniji Punya Pragyaji with us. They all added important dimension to our presence. They became a center of attraction and curiosity as many people at the conference had probably never seen a Jain monk or a nun before. Each and every member of the JAINA delegation worked very hard to make this event a big success. Every one felt that we have taken an
important step this time; the impact of which will reverberate for years to come.
I am very grateful to the groups from UK and India. Both of these groups mixed very well with their US counterparts. It was very gratifying to see every one working together as a cohesive team and speaking with one
voice for a common goal under the banner of JAINA.
Jains at the Parliament's Closing Ceremony
You will be surprised to know that the Sikh community offered free vegetarian lunch every day to about 8000 participants. They also set up a large exhibit booth that included teachings of Sikhhism on large posters and beautiful replica of the Golden Temple of Amritsar. Other communities also supported this event generously. We need to emulate the examples of other communities and spend more for interfaith events. If we are serious about spreading the teachings of our religion, we must come up with financial resources to match our intent. Many individuals and Jain centers have made remarkable progress in this direction. We would like to accelerate the process with a commitment in terms of manpower and other resources.
I would like to thank Naresh Jain, co-chair of JAINA'S interfaith committee, for his initiative, leadership, and commitment without which we would not have been this successful. He even took time off from his job so he can devote hundreds of hours needed to co-ordinate JAINA'S presentation and participation, looking after accommodation for our monks and Samnijies, and raising the Jain flag in Barcelona. I would also like to thank all delegates -most of whom spent a lot of time, energy, and their own money to support this undertaking. They have indeed left an imprint on Jain history. This was a mission well accomplished! We will redouble our efforts for the next conference!"
Anop R. Vora, President
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