Jain Society Greater Atlanta 2008 11 Pratistha

Author(s): Jain Center of Greater Atlanta
Publisher: USA Jain Center Greater Atlanta

Page 59

JSGA ADULT PATHSHALA
CLASSES IN ATLANTA By: Manhar Parekh
Weekly pathshala for adults had its sparse beginnings in September of '99 conducted by Manhar Parekh at his residence. Jains congregated at his home in Tucker, Ga, where he explained the meaning of Nav Smaran Sutras every Sunday morning.
In April of 2001, with the long awaited opening of the Jain center, Pathshala classes found their new home in Norcross. Classes grew in increasing proportions due to the center and the excitement that it brought with its construction.
Sunday classes continue to meet now from 11:15 to 12:15. Samayik is conducted during this time. The study of Tattvarth Sutra commenced on October 28th in 2001 and concluded on August 24th of 2008! Upon the completion of the Tattvarth Sutra, a study of the Nav Tattva Prakaran was begun on September 21, 2008. This study is currently in progress on a weekly basis.
At the beginning of each Samayik class, Manharbhai narrates a historical story, biography or some short topic of concurrent relevance in Jain religion. These lectures are on audio cassettes and are made so that interested individuals may borrow and listen to them at their convenience. So far, we have a full 181 lectures on audio cassette! These lectures are currently being converted into CD/MP3 format.
JSGA CHILDREN PATHSHALA
CLASSES IN ATLANTA
Main Teachers:
Pathashala is a religious school which plays a major role in development of our children. Like school, Pathashala is also very important for children development. Pathashala is a place where children learn about the Jain religion which will play im- portant part in child's life. All children learn variety of subject matters related to Jain religion. Among them are: gathas, poojas and rituals, stutis, songs, dance, drama and lot of discussion and debate on religious topics. We use Jaina foundation books and other literature to teach our children. They learn about good qualities in their life which will help them to be religious and better person in the society.
1. Prema Gandhi 770-513-1397 for ages 6-7 2. Virbala Jain 770-638-9223 for Gathas. 3. Madhu Shah 770-232-1030 for age 3-5. 4. Sampurna Shah 770-552-2507
for age 8 and above for discussion.
Assistant Teachers:
We have four pathashala classes every Sunday from 10.30 A.M. to 12.15 A.M.
1. Anita Bhalani 2. Bimal Shah 3. Mona Shah 4. Tina Shah 5. Neetu Trivedi
There are four teachers and five assistant teachers.