The fourth day of the Sanga for GBCs, Gurus, and Sannyasis (SGGS) in Sridham Mayapur began on March 1, 2013 with Ravindra Svarupa Prabhu presenting a draft version of the new GBC paper, “The Position of Srila Prabhupada.” This paper illuminates what it means that Srila Prabhupada is ISKCON’s Founder-Acharya, why Srila Prabhupada started ISKCON rather than continue with the Gaudiya Math, ISKCON’s ecclesiology, and the importance Srila Prabhupada placed on cooperation. This in-depth analysis of Srila Prabhupada’s use of the title “Founder-Acharya” and the implications this title has for Srila Prabhupada’s position in ISKCON was well received.
[styled_image w=”300″ h=”199″ image=”http://localhost/igold/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/mini-IMG_9775.jpg” align=”right”]Substantial discussion followed the presentation. All members of the SGGS received a draft copy of “The Position of Srila Prabhupada” and were requested to submit feedback to help guide the final draft of the paper, scheduled to be out next year. The final paper will be accompanied by multimedia educational material and seminars to further explain the content.
Following this presentation, four additional breakout groups reported their results to the SGGS body. Topics included “Becoming a Guru in ISKCON,” “Caring for ISKCON Leaders,” “Congregational Development,” and “Relevant and Innovative Preaching.” Anuttama Prabhu presented on behalf of the second group discussing “Becoming a Guru in ISKCON.” In summary, the group suggested that the GBC’s involvement in endorsing initiating gurus be eliminated and instead, endorsement be limited to a local ten-person review committee for candidate gurus. This is not to say there needs to be a lower standard for becoming an initiating guru – the criteria can remain the same or even increase – however, the analysis of a candidate’s qualifications should remain on a local level. In addition, the group suggested identifying more senior devotees as possible initiating gurus, educating devotees on the importance for disciples’ responsibility in choosing their gurus, and asking the GBC to research and write a paper justifying the current system of becoming an initiating guru in ISKCON.
Tamohara Prabhu presented on the “Relevant and Innovative Preaching” breakout session. His group spoke on the importance of not losing the essence of the message and standards of Krishna consciousness. They also reminded us that in any preaching, devotees should give their association rather than take the association of nondevotees. A review process for preaching activities was suggested coined “Always Better Service” (ABS) on the basis that in any preaching we do – innovative or traditional – there is always room for improvement. Such a review process could help mediate any shortcomings in a preaching project. Also, the group pointed out that we need maturity to apply Krishna consciousness to a specific time, place, and circumstance. As with the first group exploring this topic, Tamohara Prabhu’s group also suggested that the GBC produce guidelines on how to engage in innovative preaching while remaining faithful to Srila Prabhupada.
[styled_image w=”300″ h=”199″ image=”http://localhost/igold/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/mini-DSC_0308.jpg” align=”right”]The remainder of the day was spent explaining the results of the GBC strategic planning survey filled out by all participants after they had had a chance to hear and discuss the GBC’s strategic plan. Out of thirty-two respondents, only 0.6% strongly disagreed with the direction of the current strategic plan, 23% were neutral, and 72% agreed or strongly agreed. Furthermore, in response to the SGGS, several participants expressed a sense of hope and appreciation for the direction the GBC strategic planning is moving. Others gave recommendations, such as having a geographically located GBC strategic planning office with a full-time staff in order to implement the initiatives, and to engage more young leaders. A few expressed reservations about if and how the plan would be implemented. The GBC’s Strategic Planning Team, along with GBC members, heard the various comments and will consider how to use them.
March 2 marks the last day of the SGGS. The GBC strategic planning sessions then begin on March 3, continuing through March 6. GBC members will resume their regular Annual General Meeting plenary session on Tuesday, March 4.
Due to technical reasons the compiling of day three would be added shortly.