Jain Digest 2006 04

Author(s): Federation of JAINA
Publisher: USA Federation of JAINA

Page 14

REGIONAL NEWS
Legacy of Breakthrough Projects at JAINA Conventions by The Jain Center of Greater Boston
The Jain Center of Greater Boston (JCGB) has always been one of the key participants in the JAINA conventions. The JCGB is well known for presenting unique and original items. In general, a majority of the items at the JAINA conventions are presented by the visiting scholars and monks that appeal to the first generation of Jains, whereas the JCGB Pathshala youth has presented thought provoking and very informative presentations, dramas, and skits during the previous JAINA conventions. These items, presented by the youth who were raised in the US, fill the gap and cater to the next generation of the Jain youth attending the conventions. The JCGB Community takes great pride in that in many of the JAINA conventions, these are the only "out of the box" thought provoking events for both youths
and adults.
Typically, senior level students and JCGB Pathshala staff start preparing for the conventions at least one year before the next JAINA Convention. On occasions, members of the JCGB also join the efforts. JCGB members and Executive Committee offer financial support as well. The following is a list of major programs presented by the JCGB Pathshala youth for the next generation of the youth.
Exhibit on Jainism: Pittsburg Convention, 1993 - This exhibit covered over 4000 square feet and became the center of attraction at the convention and included a walk in temple.
Tattavartha Sutra: Toronto Convention 1997-Several presentations were made during the two days and over 2000 people attended. This was subsequently presented at Harvard Divinity School.
Rituals, to Do or Not: Toronto Convention 1997 The JCGB youth emphasized the significance of Jain rituals and described the practices and benefits of many of the
Jain rituals.
Gunsthans: Philadelphia JAINA Convention, 1999 This was a mini-drama presented in a theater-type setting that attracted hundreds of people during the several shows. This skit simplified a very complex topic on Gunsthans.
Tapestry:Philadelphia Convention, 1999- This was a computer based program that highlighted how different topics of Jain philosophy are connected.
21st Century-A play :Philadelphia Convention, 1999 - This was a mini-drama, which showed conflict resolution between present day life in the US and the principles of
Jainism.
Comparative Study of World Religions :Chicago convention, 2001 - In order to instill a stronger faith in our own religion, we should know the basics of other religions. This was a one hour long seminar and crash course in World Religions.
Spiritual Theme Park A Conceptual Design: Chicago Convention 2001 - This program was a high-tech conceptual design of a Spiritual Theme Park. The objective was to influence a person so that after touring through the park, the person would come out spiritual enlightened.
Reconciling and Strengthening our faith: Cincinnati Convention, 2003 - Here the attendees reexamined their core faith in Jainism in light of the scientific and social
progress.
Rebranding and Repackaging of Jainism: Cincinnati Convention, 2003 - To not just survive but thrive, Jainism needs to be simplified and shift in focus to concepts relevant in today's times in North America. This session focused on how Jainism needs to be repositioned. The above two interactive sessions addressed the challenges that Jainism faces in this century and possible solutions.
Jain Way of Life A Presentation and on-line interaction: Santa Clara Convention, 2005 - Most of our scriptures describe the practice of Jainism based on the life style prevailing centuries ago. Just like an speedometer in a car or a map, this program allowed the attendees to see where they are in their progress in living a Jain Way of Life. This program presented ways of practicing Jainism in the present days without compromising the principles.
Essence of Jainism - Elevator Pitch - Presentation
and Training: Santa Clara Convention, 2005 - After several years of research and testing, the team developed a 45 second pitch on the essence of Jainism. Such a pitch is so compelling and powerful that it can be conveyed in a short elevator ride.
In additions to the above items, the JCGB Pathshala is always present in the Academic Bowls and also during the evening cultural programs. Also, JCGB youths always present novelty and entertaining items at YJA conventions.
We invite other Pathshala youth to join us to prepare more programs in the future JAINA Conventions for the youth.
The Pathashala Staff
The Jain Center of Greater Boston 12/JAIN DIGEST.Summer 2006 www.jainelibrary.org