There also will be a service on Sunday for all ages. For details, please call 430-8009. Visit www.polestargardens.org.
This week the Polestar Community in Kapoho is celebrating the life and inspiration of the great Indian saint and yoga master, Paramhansa Yogananda, whose birthday was on Thursday.
Yogananda was one of the first yogis to come to the West, arriving on the mainland in the 1920s.
He came to show the unity of all true religions, presenting the underlying connection between Christianity and Eastern religion.
In the first decade of his arrival, he toured the nation extensively, lecturing to thousands as he spoke in every major city.
At that time, yoga was unheard of in American culture.
However, despite his dark hair and skin, turban and thick Bengali accent, he enthralled audiences, running on stage with great enthusiasm and in a commanding voice, inspiring his listeners to search for truth within themselves.
“His message was not eclecticism, but to honor, respect and appreciate the diverse pathways to Spirit,” said Polestar spokeswoman Rachel Andersen.
Yoganada’s teachings have inspired the formation of many “world brotherhood” communities across the globe, including Polestar Gardens.
This week’s events at Polestar included a special kirtan (sacred music) and potluck on Wednesday and a candlelight flower ceremony on Thursday.
There also will be a service on Sunday for all ages. For details, please call 430-8009. Visit www.polestargardens.org.