By Bhakta Ivor Lyons
We all know that Govindas are very special places and specifically they help ISKCON communities in at least four different ways.
Most obviously they provide us with delicious and nutritious food. The dishes are freshly cooked on the premises each day; there is a wide variety of meal options; and all the meals are first offered to Lord Krishna before being served.
Secondly, Govindas are wonderful places of calm. They give us all an additional escape from the stress of our everyday lives because each one is a unique oasis of spirituality and peace.
Also for many people, Govindas represents their first experience of the Hare Krishna community. They are a non-clichéd opportunity for people from all walks of life to learn about our values and beliefs.
Finally, but very importantly, Govindas provide employment for many. In these particularly difficult economic times, this is becoming increasingly important for many in our communities.
It is because of the value of Govindas to ISKCON that we are exploring ways in which we might expand their influence. This includes looking at the viability of opening Govindas in towns all over Europe.
This project is in its early stages but already we have achieved significant traction and are gathering support. Now we would like to open up the discussion further.
Below is a short questionnaire that we are using to canvas opinions in the first instance. If you could take just a few minutes to complete it, we would be most grateful.
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/9W5SWLX
Your servant,
Bhakta Ivor Lyons
Great idea. Just filled up the survey. Go, for it.
When there is a will, there is a way…!
For more exchange, please write to puskaraksa_das@yahoo.fr