Blog Post One
An Evening Diwan (congregation) at Sterling location in 2013
During the 3rd March 2013 congregation of Sikh Mission of Virginia, most of the agenda was dedicated to the Sikh youth and children. The evening started with the recitation of Rehras Sahib by members of the congregation. No granthi was present, however, in the presence of our Guru, Sri Guru Granth Sahib, everyone rejoiced the message from Rehras Sahib.
The objective was (1) to encourage members of Sadh Sangat (congregation) to participate in the reading of Guru ka Shabd and gain better understanding of its message, rather than merely hearing, and (2) not leave the reading to just a granthi (or priest). While the role of granthi is important, Guru ka Shabd is highly encouraged to any Sikhi abiding individual who wishes to learn, grow and share with the congregation.
Founder of Sikh Mission of Virginia, and member of the Sadh Sangat, Sardar Harbans Singh ji sang a Shabd (hymn) dedicated to Bhagat Ravi Das ji. It was an amazing experience as while there was no music, the singing itself from the human vocal chords added to the melody. The singing of Infinite Wisdom (“Gurshabd”) itself is an inspiration to all humans that even if there is no musical instrument or one may not know how to play an instrument, GurShabd can still be shared with Sangat... it is the internal spirit and passion to sing and share Guru ka Shabd (Holy Infinite Divine Word/Message).
A youth leader and student, Harsimran Kaur led children of various ages from the congregation to collectively sing Guru Ka Shabd while another Loudoun County middle school student shared a short speech on why she likes to come to the Sikh Mission of Virginia, followed by a young Sikh boy, who shared information about Harmandir Sahib (Darbar Sahib), its history, architecture and memories of his recent visit to Harmandir Sahib. These were awesome presentations where the kids became the inspiration for the adults to join in as well.
Secretary Sardar Amarjeet Singh ji provided an update on the Leadership Series project, as well as welcomed applications for adult volunteers to help build and run the project. SMV encouraged children to participate in the organization in various roles to collaborate and develop programs while building strong foundations skills such as leadership, time management, conflict resolution and team management.
Sardar Amarjeet Singh ji further shared the historical details of the Nankana Sahib Saka (Massacre of Nanakana Sahib) with the audience in great details. The speech was well-researched and shared with passion. The congregation learned facts about the Sikh martyrs who as patriots protected the sanctity of the birthplace of Guru Nanak, Founder of the Sikh Faith. It was also identified that the "mahants" being Sikhs in attire did not practice the true religion and principles, thus signifying ones actions matter more than mere ritualistic actions.
The congregation then joined to meditate on His Naam (Creator Lord’s Name) by collectively performing Naam Simran (meditative recital) of "Sat Naam Waheguru". The children led by fellow youth, Harsimran Kaur then sang the Anand Sahib (Song of Bliss), followed by Ardas (Supplication) and Hukamnama (Divine Command of the Day). Amarjeet Singh also explained the Hukamnama to the sangat. Gur Prasaad (spiritual blessings of positive spirit) was then shared followed by everyone enjoying Guru ka Langar (community sharing of food, prepared, served and enjoyed by community members of congregation).