THE INNOVATIVE SHADI SATSANGH, 1985
Since the formation or Prema Satsangh, and enthusiasm of family members in our organization, we thought it fitting to have a renewal of Marriage Vows . This inspiration came about at the time when there was a joy in cultural and family values . We pray for continuity .
Our organization was founded in October, 1972 . There was a great togetherness of HUSBANDS & WIVES in carrying on weekly Satsanghs. We were blessed by the upkeep of these marriages. We have witnessed over 40 pairs of young and old lovers, and their children, who we are looking forward to setting good examples in family harmony and leadership. A new training program to take over the noble task of propagating the aims and objects of Prema was designed for them.
The family harmony was further strengthened by the innovative idea of SHAADI SATSANGH ( A Spiritual Experience of Marital Togetherness ). This idea came up in 1985. This was warmly received, and due to our policies of all inclusiveness, we renewed the marriage vows by whatever denomination they were married in. Hence we had a Christian Priest: Rev. Enid Bailey from Unity of Jamaica, Muslim: Molvi Dudu Hussman, and Hindu Priest: Pandit Ramadhar Maragh to officiate – to satisfy their family preference.
However, it turned out that the ceremonial walking around the AGNI , sacred fire & bamboo were acceptable to all. This was exhilarating with the singing of SHAADI BEERAHA (wedding songs by Gangaram Tolan). We had a Special Guest: Shri Ram Lal Bhutani who was the Indian ambassador to Jamaica at the time.
Those who participated were:
- Wilfred & Lillian Thompson ( 58 yrs. together )
- Joseph & Lucille Williams-Singh ( 50 yrs.)
- Sydney & Precious Bepat
- Donald & Nandi Williams
- Ramdayal & Etwarie Tolan
- Papa & Mama Dookhie
- Lyle & Pauline Nathan
- Charlie & Polly Dorie
- Linval & Janet Charoo
- Delroy & Jean Bowla
- Barbara & Hame Persaud
THIS OCCASION WAS DOCUMENTED AS THE FIRST OF ITS KIND IN THE INDIAN COMMUNITY. MANY WERE NOT GIVEN THIS TYPE OF EXPOSURE, TO BE IN HARMONY UNDER ONE MAAROW (DECORATED CEREMONIAL TENT), WITNESSING THIS HINDU TRADITION. THE MUSLIM AND CHRISTIAN WEDDINGS WERE ALSO EXPLAINED!
Inspiration by Hame 