Blog Post Two
SMV Annual Meeting with Sadh Sangat
Sikh Mission of Virginia organized its annual meeting on 17 February 2013. It was a well-attended meeting during which members of the congregation enjoyed the Gurbani shabd hymns and Hukamnama (Divine Command or Order of the Day) from Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji, Holy Scriptures (book) of the Sikhs, prior to initiation of the annual meeting. Two children from the Youth group dedicated a small speech on Baba Ajit Singh ji, the eldest princely son (Sahibzade) of tenth Divine Mehl/Nanak, Guru Gobind Singh ji. The Sadh Sangat (congregation) enjoyed solo Gurbani Shabd from the founder of SMV, Sardar Harbans Singh ji, without any accompanying musical instrument. Everyone appears to be immersed in the Shabd and one with Akal Purakh (Creator Lord “God”).
During the meeting, while the Secretary, Sardar Amarjeet Singh ji managed the agenda for the evening, Sardar Harbans Singh ji, as Trustee of the organization, led the meeting and shared the organization finance updates and objectives with the Sadh Sangat. It was highly encouraged for the congregation to consider contributing financially to the organization as members, volunteers and donors, as well as in program and community projects.
Following the address by Sardar Harbans Singh ji, every member of the congregation was encouraged and welcomed to address the Sadh Sangat with a personal introduction and share suggestions as to how to help achieve the objectives of the organization, including but not limited to new ideas to expand the outreach programs of the organization and build it into a regional brand. Men, women and children, of all ages and backgrounds participated in this highly democratic process. The organization duly noted the suggestions, feedback and comments. In fact, some of the adult members had never had the opportunity to address the congregation in public forum such as this or from a stage podium and humbly appreciated the opportunity. The feedback from the kids was especially eye-opening and impressive.
In conclusion, Sikh Mission of Virginia annual meeting was a huge success. The meeting ended with everyone enjoying "Guru ka Langar" prepared by the community members of the congregation. New attendees had the opportunity to meet and enjoy the warm welcome.