ISKCON Governing Body Commission Society

Reg. No. S/74662 under the West Bengal Societies Registration Act, 1961

P.O. Sree Mayapura Dhama, Dist. Nadia, W. Bengal

Minutes of Plenary Meeting, Sridhama Mayapura, Feb. 3, 1996

1. H. H. Suhotra Swami is elected as GBC Chairman for 1996-97.

2. H. G. Madhusevita dasa is elected as GBC Vice-chairman for 1996-97.

3. H. H. Bhakti Tirtha Swami is elected as GBC Second Vice-chairman for 1996-97.

4. H. G. Sesa dasa is confirmed as an acting GBC member.

5. H. H. Bhakti Vaibhava Swami is confirmed as an acting GBC member.

6. H. H. Bir Krsna Goswami is confirmed as an assistant GBC member.

7. H. H. Param Gati Swami is confirmed as a full GBC member.

8. H. H. Radhanatha Swami is confirmed as a full GBC member.

9. H. H. Ramai Swami is confirmed as an acting GBC member.

10. H. H. Giridhari Swami is confirmed as an acting GBC member.

11.H.G. Manjari devi dasi is confirmed as an assistant GBC member.

12. H.G. Manjari Devi Dasi is elected as GBC Secretary.

13. Resolved that we the undersigned members and servants of the Governing Body Commission of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, today, the 11^th of February, 1996, in Sridhama Mayapura at the ISKCON Sri Mayapur Candrodaya Mandir, express our profound bereavement on the passing of our dear Godbrother and fellow Governing Body Commissioner His Divine Grace Om Visnupada Sri Srimad Gaura Govinda Goswami Maharaja, the beloved disciple of ISKCON Founder/Acarya His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.

Sri Srimad Gaura Govinda Goswami Maharaja dedicated his life to fulfilling Srila Prabhupada’s order to spread Krishna consciousness throughout the world and specifically among the people of Orissa. He translated Srila Prabhupada's transcendental literature and fulfilled Srila Prabhupada's desire for a Krishna-Balaram Temple in Bhubanesvara. He was not only a topmost devotee but he was also a great and learned scholar. In this time of their great grief, we pledge ourselves to the service of his disciples and followers who are determined to carry on his great service to the mission of Srila Prabhupada.

With feelings of separation we note that Sri Srimad Gaura Govinda Goswami Maharaja departed this world February 9, 1996, on the auspicious Appearance day of Om Visnupada Paramahamsa Parivrajakacarya Sri Srimad Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur Prabhupada, while reciting the pastimes of Lord Sri Krishna, in the holy dhama of Sri Mayapura, at the ISKCON Sri Mayapur Candrodaya Mandir, the spiritual world headquarters of ISKCON, at the conclusion of a full day of unalloyed devotional service to his spiritual master, Srila Prabhupada. His departure shows all auspicious symptoms and his success fills our hearts with admiration. His life and disappearance pastimes shall remain a great inspiration to all members of ISKCON.

100.

Srila Prabhupada Centennial Resolutions

Spreading the Holy Name

That at least once each month, each ISKCON temple should have an istagosti to discuss the importance of the Holy Name. Further, devotees should:

1) Read from books such as “Namamrta”;

2) Discuss obstacles in chanting;

3) Discuss the lives of great Nama Bhaktas;

4) (Especially for leaders) create an atmosphere that encourages regular performance of Harinama by joining the Harinama party, arranging special prasadam after Harinama, and having inspirational discussions before or after Harinama.

Uniting Prabhupada's Family

That all initiating spiritual masters of ISKCON shall provide biographical information on all their disciples to the Global Database manager. The first report, updated to Dec. 1995, should be sent no later than April 31, 1996. Subsequently, a report on new disciples will be provided to the Global Database at least once a year a the time of the Mayapur festival.

That the Global Database manager is requested to research and apply standard procedures concerning maintaining the confidentiality of the data.

That the subtitle "ISKCON's newsletter for Uniting Prabhupada's Family" be added to "Prabhupadanuga”, and that, as an important mouthpiece in that effort, its publication continue beyond 1996 until and unless the target is achieved.

That a report of the survey conducted by Professor Burke Rochford be submitted to the Advisory Committee of the GBC no later than Srila Prabhupada's Maha Vyasa-puja Day 1996.

That since the underlining theme of the Centennial is to perform the magic of Uniting Prabhupada's Family, each and every devotee, through personal contact, shall personally help reconnect initiated devotees who have lost contact with ISKCON and/or the practice of devotional service. As an offering to Srila Prabhupada, each devotee is requested to cultivate at least one devotee.

That nurturing relationships with devotees who have become distanced from ISKCON is included in ISKCON’s congregational preaching efforts.

Strengthening ISKCON Management

That August 7, 1996, ISKCON’s Incorporation Day, be used as a deadline for temples to bring their management up to date, especially in the area of property registration and accounting. Sudharma devi dasi will be the event coordinator.

Sahasra Tirtha Jal program

In order to make Srila Prabhupada’s Centennial a total success and to fulfill the Centennial Goals every ISKCON temple should make a concerted effort to implement locally and sponsor internationally the Sahasra Tirtha Jala Maha Abhisheka Kalash sponsorship program. It is recommended to give everyone the opportunity to sponsor a kalash and get the mercy.

Every Zonal Secretary should inspire their Temple Presidents to implement this program and publicize it in the biggest possible manner. Let no one complain they didn’t know about it. Temple presidents should give top priority to the Sahasra Tirtha Jal program.

Distributing Srila Prabhupada’s Books

That every devotee is encouraged to help make book distribution a success, and that GBC secretaries shall arrange through their Temple Presidents and Sankirtan leaders to realize this program by :

a) establishing a proper understanding of book distribution as a primary way to please Srila Prabhupada according to guidelines given by the ministry;

b) organizing the distribution of books;

c) creating and supplying all necessary facilities required so that everybody can participate in book distribution (finding legal spots, getting books and vehicles, and teaching and organizing devotees);

d) conducting regular book distribution meetings at least monthly.

`Resolutions relating to Social and Educational Issues

101.

That a GBC Grihastha Ministry be established. The goals of this Ministry shall be:

1. To insure adequate information is available on Grihastha life.

2. To establish a system to counsel grihastha couples according to Srila Prabhupada's instruction.

3. To establish and support continental representatives.

4. To work out guidelines in consultation with senior grhasthas in good standing about child raising, economic security, etc.

5. To organize seminars, presentations and/or conferences on Grihastha life.

The first duties of the Grihastha Ministry shall be:

1. To ensure these goals are complete by Mayapura, 1997 a by convening this committee: Naveen Krsna Prabhu (convener), Jaya Sila Prabhu, Prthu prabhu, Sesa prabhu, Sudharma Mataji, and Braja Bihari dasa. They shall do the following:

a. Develop the Mission and Objectives of the Ministry.

b. Establish regional co-ordinators in North America, South America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe and Russian States, Africa, Southeast Asia and Middle East, and Australia/New Zealand. (by January 1997)

c. To choose an International Grihastha Minister in consultation with senior grhasthas from around the world, to be approved by the GBC via COM. (by June, 1996)

102.

The GBC Body shall establish an International Women's Ministry. This Ministry will address the following concerns in a clear, mature, and deliberate manner:

1. Appreciating the contribution of ISKCON's female devotees.

2. Increasing understanding of the serious concerns of women in ISKCON.

3. Providing facility, communication and support for all female members of ISKCON.

4. Addressing issues of abuse and sexual impropriety in ISKCON.

5. Defining the different female devotee situations (e.g. grhastha women, older, renounced women, and brahmacarinis).

6. Working with temple authorities and GBCs to identify role models and encourage them to inspire and train junior Vaisnavis.

The first duties of this Ministry:

1. Establishment of Regional Ministers (who will serve on a worldwide Women's Ministerial Council.)

2. Selection of an International Women's Minister.

3. Communication with regional GBC, temple presidents and other leaders as to the purposes, understanding and practical application of the Women's Ministry in each individual region.

4. Positive, regional guidelines for protecting ISKCON women, including domestic violence, sexual impropriety, etc.

The first objectives of this Ministry:

STEP ONE: (Complete by July 1996)

Appoint Regional Ministers. The regional minister will by chosen conjointly by local senior Vaisnavis, GBC, and other ISKCON leaders. Her qualifications include: ability to communicate maturely with local leaders, senior and junior female devotees and female congregation; genuine understanding of the needs and concerns of ladies; ability to proceed with Women's Ministry responsibilities in a non-confrontational yet serious manner.

STEP TWO: (Complete by October 1996)

Choose an International Minister. The International Minister will be chosen as follows:

1. Senior Vaisnavis from each region will nominate appropriate candidates.

2. Discussion of these candidates will ensue via COM, mail and phone.

Sudharma dasi, with the help of Bhaktitirtha Swami, Madhusevita Prabhu, and Bir Krishna Goswami will ensure the completion of these tasks.

103.

The GBC hereby requests all temple and congregational leaders to practically engage female devotees in areas of temple sadhana and preaching, giving careful and mature consideration to devotee ability, local culture, devotee seniority, dedication, service, need for encouragement, and temple environment.

ISKCON is a family where everyone should feel welcome. Although temple environments may differ, the underlying principle of facilitating ladies’ sadhana must remain, based on an attitude of encouragement and respect.

104.

That every GBC man and every ISKCON guru should write to those appropriate members under their jurisdiction (all grhastas and businessman) encouraging them to actively support education s part of the preaching activities of ISKCON. The following statements from Srila Prabhupada are recommended for inclusion:-

"It is necessary for the leaders of the Krishna Consciousness Movement to start educational institutions in different parts of the world to train children." (S.B. 4.12.23)

"The important members of ISKCON should give careful attention to our Dallas school." (Cc. Adi 17.103)

NB. At the time of writing, the Dallas Gurukula was the only one throughout the world.

"I consider the gurukula school to be one of the most important aspects of this movement. It should be given all serious consideration by the members."

(letter to Stoka-Krsna 6/20/72)

"I greatly appreciate your activities for conducting our school to the highest standard of Krishna Consciousness. I consider your work the most important in the society, because you are shaping the future generation of our Krishna Conscious preachers. This is not a small thing." (letter to Rupa-vilasa 6/20/72)

"I am especially stressing the importance of our gurukula for training up the next generation of Krishna Conscious preachers. This is the most important task ahead... It is very important work, and you are especially responsible to make it successful. All other GBC men should give you all assistance for building up the standard."

(letter to Satsvarupa Maharaja 7/1/72)

"Do not neglect this educational program... You GBC members take it very seriously to develop that school for children. If we lose even one Vaisnava, it is a very great loss. This gurukula is the responsibility of every GBC man, not just the zonal secretary. You all should actually participate in its development."

(letter to unknown 1972)

"It is the most important preaching work; training our children in Krishna Conscious education." (letter to Mohanananda 12/11/72)

"All grhastas who are interested in doing business should do so in full swing... Let all the grhastas who wish to, execute business... The profits from the businesses should go first to support gurukula, and the balance may be given for the local temple's maintenance... If grhastas want to do book distribution, they should be given a commission... of which part must go to gurukula. Others, who are engaged in important society projects, must get something for maintaining their children in gurukula." (letter to Jayatirtha 1/22/76)

B. Copies of such letters should be sent to the International Office of Education no later than 4/15/96.

105.

Whereas our Society has not yet provided clear, secure pathways into adulthood for our succeeding generations, and there is an urgent need to provide a broad spectrum of training and occupational placement for succeeding generations growing up in ISKCON:

It is hereby resolved that all GBC representatives and ISKCON gurus issue, to the appropriate members under their jurisdiction, letters encouraging support of programs aimed at addressing the above problems. Such a letter should include the following points:-

a) That all departments within ISKCON accept responsibility, as their moral and spiritual duty, to offer training in their particular skills and expertise to members of our second generation.

b) adoption of a "second generation first" policy in terms of placing [or hiring] devotees in all positions within our society [given certain prerequisite qualifications are present]

c) encouraging all privately owned devotee businesses and services to look first for a member of the second generation to train and employ

d) addressing the misconception that if an ISKCON devotee or department trains a second generation devotee and they later take those skills and go "outside" ISKCON to get a job that this constitutes a loss for ISKCON. Rather, from such training an enthusiastic and supportive congregation will develop.

2. It is further resolved that all GBC men ensure that temple presidents in their zones take responsibility to acquire, distribute, encourage the completion of, collect, and return the Project Future Hope surveys. This can be done by the presidents directly or by overseeing someone else taking on this service. The surveys can be obtained from the North American Youth Ministry Office in Los Angeles.

106.

Whereas there is no clear format for hearing from, and dealing with, our second [and succeeding] generations - whose who've grown up in our movement, it is resolved:

a) that the North American Minister for Youth be recognized to act in an international capacity, specifically:

i) accessing ISKCON mailing lists and audiences

ii) establish reps. in various parts of the world [North European rep., etc.]

b) that a period [15-30 minutes] be designated annually at a GBC plenary session for a report from the Youth Minister

c) a $6000 budget be given to the Youth Ministry with which it will

i) establish and maintain a Youth Ministry Office

ii) develop a world-wide data base of second generation devotee youth

iii) develop a world-wide data base of training and occupational opportunities for second generation youth

iv) facilitate the connection of devotees from the above two subsets

v) produce a bimonthly newsletter describing this ongoing training and placement

d) that there be a permanent invitation for the ISKCON Minister of Youth to attend the Mayapur GBC meetings, and that he/she may elect one other second generation young adult to attend the meetings with him/her in his/her place with the approval of the GBC Executive Committee.

107

Whereas it is the responsibility of the GBC Body to provide vision for and practical assistance for the overseeing of the primary and secondary education of the children and youth of ISKCON;

Therefore it is resolved that:

1. A Ministry of Education be established to fulfill this function.

2. A group of Muralivadaka dasa (convener), Bhurijan dasa, and Manu dasa be assembled to perform the following single function: to assemble a greater, more representative committee suitable to fulfill other tasks, including:

a) proposing the mission and objectives for the ministry.

b) proposing an organizational structure for the ministry.

c) proposing persons to fulfill the positions within the structure, including a Minister of Education, and, in conjunction with local GBC men, regional representatives.

d) proposing five year plans as well as next year’s tasks, together with a budget and funding plan needed to fulfill those tasks.

e) submitting a proposal to the GBC Body via COM by the end of June which expresses the fulfillment of the above tasks.

108

That a committee shall be formed to research and formulate a viable sastric social structure for ISKCON. This committee shall initially consist of:

B.V. Purna Swami, Bhurijan dasa, Ravindra Swarupa dasa, Jayapataka Swami, Sesa dasa, Harikesa Swami, and Suhotra Swami.

109

The following sannyasi recommendations were confirmed:

1. Gauranga dasa (Mayapur) - 4 year waiting list.

2. Ramacandra dasa (Fiji) - 4 year waiting list.

3. Gaura Narayana dasa (Vrindavan) - 4 year waiting list

4. Gita Govinda dasa (Nigeria) - 2 year waiting list. In case of an emergency, the GBC Executive Committee can authorize that he be given sannyasa immediately.

5. Pariksit dasa (Nigeria) - 3 year waiting list. In case of an emergency, the GBC Executive Committee can authorize that he be given sannyasa immediately.

6. Canakya Pandit dasa (Nigeria) - 3 year waiting list. In case of an emergency, the GBC Executive Committee can authorize that he be given sannyasa immediately.

7. Sruti dhama (UK) - 5 year waiting list.

8. Kadamba Kanana Rasa Parayana dasa (Benelux) - 1 year waiting list.

9. Drutakarma dasa (Los Angeles) - 3 year waiting list.

10. Danavir dasa (USA) - 1 year waiting list.

11. Balabhadra dasa (Scotland) - 2 year waiting list.

12. Ksirodaksayi Visnu (Vrndavan) - 2 year waiting list

13. Candra Mali Maharaja is recognized as an ISKCON sannyasi.

14. Partha Sarathi dasa Can take sannyasa after passing the Bhakti Sastri exam.

15. Sarvaisvarya dasa - 5 year waiting list.

16. Simhesvara dasa - 5 year waiting list.

110

That applications for sannyasa candidacy should include written endorsements from the local GBC(s) and the local managerial body or bodies where the candidate serves. In addition it should include a resume detailing the candidate’s devotional career.

111

That a standing GBC sub-committee be established to deal with sannyasa matters. Prahladananda Swami will finalize its members in consultation with this year’s GBC executive committee.

112

Bhaktisiddhanta Maharaja and Candrasekhara Maharaja who were formerly connected with New Vrindavan and who are now connected with ISKCON, may carry on as sannyasis under ISKCON authority.

a. They should come to Mayapur next year so their situation can be discussed.

b. They should travel with an ISKCON sannyasi (decided upon in consultation with the Sannyasa Minister) for at least 3 weeks.

c. They should individually visit, for at least a week, each Australian regional area. Before next Mayapur, the Australian National Council should give its opinion on their preaching to the Sannyasa Minister.

Resolutions Regarding Deity Worship and Philosophical Issues

201.

The GBC has been asked to establish Srila Prabhupada’s time of birth for astrological purposes. The GBC determines that there is currently insufficient factual evidence to establish Srila Prabhupada’s exact time of birth. Therefore, no conclusive decision concerning Prabhupada’s correct astrological chart is possible at present.

202.

The GBC gives permission for Radha Krishna Deities be installed at the farm in Hungary (together with Giriraja and Gauranga Mahaprabhu).

203. 1: The GBC will publish a book about the principle of guru and its application in ISKCON by Gour Purnima 1997.

The book will establish the proper philosophy in opposition to the posthumous rtvik theory and other such doctrines incompatible with the teachings of Srila Prabhupada. This book will review the history of guru issues in ISKCON since Srila Prabhupada’s disappearance. The preparation of the book will be supervised by a editorial board comprised of H. H. Bhakti Charu Maharaja, H. H. Giriraja Maharaja, H. G. Virabahu Prabhu and H. G. Ravindra Svarupa Prabhu.

2: The posthumous rtvik theory has been prohibited in ISKCON. Temple presidents, at their discretion, have the right to prohibit its advocates from participating in ISKCON functions or visiting an ISKCON temple if their advocacy creates a disturbance.

204.

The GBC hereby establishes a standing committee called “The Philosophical Committee” as a resource available to ISKCON members. Individual devotees and ISKCON entities (e.g., the GBC Body, Continental committees, or International Temple presidents). may approach the Philosophical Committee for the settlement of disputes on philosophical matters that arise within ISKCON. The Philosophical Committee will examine the issues and their implications, clarify what the areas of conflict are, and determine what is at stake. The Committee may then propose resolutions to the GBC Body. However, if the Philosophical Committee finds that a dispute simply concerns questions of correct practical application of philosophy, it will refer the matter to the local GBC secretary.

ISKCON leaders may also request the Philosophical Committee to review publications which are perceived to be questionable. The members of the Philosophical Committee for 1996 - 97 shall be:

1) H.H. Bhakti Charu Swami

2) H. H. Hrdayananda das Goswami

3) H. H. Jayadvaita Swami

4) H. G. Ravindra Svarupa Prabhu

5) H. H. Suhotra Swami

In addition, the International GBC Chairman shall be an ex-officio member of the committee and serve as its chairman.

205.

A “Vaisnava Etiquette Guide” shall be prepared for submission to the GBC at the 1997 annual meeting by H. H. Bhakti Caru Maharaja, H. H. Bhaktividya Purna Maharaja, and H. H. Jayapataka Maharaja. They shall present the work in progress to the GBC Philosophy Committee during the year.

Any items changing current ISKCON Law regarding behavior toward spiritual masters shall be considered separately by the GBC body before being included in the Guide.

206.

The GBC grants permission to ISKCON Bhayandar (near Bombay) to move the Deities named Sri Sri Radha-Giridhari from the rental apartment to the new ISKCON-owned property at Mira Road, when it is possible to do so without decreasing their standard of service.

207.

The GBC body gives its blessings for His Grace Rukmini Pati dasa to accept disciples in ISKCON.

208

That, in cases where the formal guru-disciple relationship has not been properly sanctioned by procedures given in ISKCON Law, no ISKCON member shall engage in giving any of the elements of the initiation ceremony---such as: giving a devotional name, giving sanctified chanting beads, or neck beads, or participating in some ceremony or ritual of commitment--in any number or combination, to other devotees in ISKCON or it’s congregations, with the stated or unstated purpose or effect of creating the resemblance of a formal Guru-disciple relation.

When such unauthorized activities have already taken place :

a) all participants should be informed that no initiation has taken place, nor any binding pledge leading towards initiation

b) The junior devotee in the transaction should seek to establish a relationship with an authorized initiating guru in whom he can place full faith

c) All devotees must cease using any names given, if any.

209

A. That the following activities are not allowed as part of ISKCON functions, whether conducted on ISKCON property or elsewhere:

B. Satya Narayana Katha. (This is a concocted form of worship).

C. Garbha dance, when it is conducted in association with the worship of Durga. (Garbha dance is usually performed as part of Nava-ratri, a Durga festival. However, there are also Garbha dances in glorification of Krishna. Temple authorities permitting a Garbha dance must be confident that the performance is entirely Krishna centered.)

D. The reading of Tulsidasa's Rama-carita-manasa. (Ramayana readings should be from Valmiki Ramayana, as Tulsidasa's work is tinged with impersonalism.)

E. Lectures advocating Mayavada or other offensive philosophies.

F. The singing of the Hindi arati song "om jaya jagadisha hari". (This is a prayer for material benedictions).

2. Regarding worship of demigods:

A. Worship of demigods as independent gods is not permitted in Krishna consciousness. However, the Nectar of Devotion says that demigods should be respected. Worshipping demigods as Vaisnavas is authorized. For preaching, in order to teach people the right position of the demigods as great Vaisnavas, ISKCON temples may hold on special occasions ceremonies or pujas respecting and worshipping demigods as great Vaisnavas, provided:

i) The worship is only as a Vaisnava (This means that the deva/devi shall be offered: the prasadam arotika items immediately after they are offered to Lord Krishna, Krishna prasadam flower garlands, and Krishna prasadam foodstuffs. No independent worship is offered. Only the chanting of Hare Krishna and Vishnu's names is done, as Lord Caitanya did in South India.)

ii) Their status as servants of Krishna is made as clear as possible through signs, symbols, and iconography, and

iii) Offerings are of Krishna prasadam.

B. Deities of demigods (incl. Lakshmi where no Vishnu is established), shall not be established without permission of the GBC. Where they are permitted or where ISKCON aquires a temple with already established murtis of demigods, they may remain, provided they are worshipped as Vaisnavas, as provided above.

3. It is permitted for other groups, at the discretion of the local ISKCON authorities, to rent space in ISKCON premises, outside the temple room, for their own ceremonies and functions, even for functions listed above (1.A-E), provided that the public understand clearly that the function is not being sponsored or conducted by ISKCON. However, no function on ISKCON property shall include any activity contrary to the four regulative principles. The GBC recommends that temples provide outside groups rental contracts clearly stipulating the above restrictions.

Resolutions Regarding ISKCON Internal Affairs

301.

That the following arrangement is accepted for Brazil GBC: That Guruprasad Swami will assume GBC responsibility for Brazil with the following conditions:

1) Isvara Swami will work as Guruprasada Swami’s representative in South Brazil.

2) That Dhanvantari Swami, Jagat Vicitra Prabhu, Candra-mukhya Swami, Somaka Swami and Rukmini-pati prabhu will work as Guruprasada Swami’s representative in the areas designated by Guruprasada Swami.

3) That the above representatives of Guruprasada Swami should meet three times annually at a minimum or as directed by Guruprasada Swami.

4) The Sao Paulo Temple situation must be resolved by the above representatives as a priority.

302.

That Prthu Prabhu be appointed Candidate for GBC for Northwest USA.

303.

That Harikesa Swami as be appointed Co-GBC for France.

304.

That Rohini Suta Prabhu becomes the sole GBC for the Ural Region of Russia (instead of Prabhavisnu Swami and Rohini Suta being Co-GBC's)

305. That the Co-GBC for Eastern Canada are Bhakti-raghava Swami, Sridhar Swami and Bir Krsna Goswami (for Toronto only).

306

That the Ottawa temple activities will remain as they are and any changes will be reviewed with Niranjana Swami.

307

Rohini-Suta das shall be Co-GBC with Harikesa Swami for Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia, Serbia, Macedonia and Northern Germany (Berlin, Hamburg and Hannover)

308

That the Co-GBC’s for Hawaii are Bir Krsna Goswami, Bhakti Svarupa Damodara Swami, and Madhusevita prabhu.

309

That Niranjana Swami and Bhaktivaibhava Swami shall be the co-GBCs for Belarus. (This means that Prabhavishnu Swami will no longer be co-GBC for Belarus).

310

Whereas the position of property trustee is of grave importance within ISKCON because the trustee is entrusted with the responsibility of preserving Srila Prabhupada’s will , there fore every devotee holding the position of property trustee must:

1. routinely participate in ISKCON activities (temple programs, festival gathering, etc.) or, in the event that trustee doesn’t reside within close proximity to an ISKCON temple, maintain a standard ISKCON sadhana program at home and regularly attend major temple festivals such as Janmastami, Vyasa Puja, Gaura Purnima, etc.

2. regularly associate with ISKCON devotees.

3. visibly adhere to the spiritual standards expected of any full-time member of ISKCON.

4. sign the oath of allegiance.

The GBC Executors Committee shall see to it that all Property Trustees meet these criteria, and advise, warn, remove and replace Property Trustees who do not.

311

That the Deities of San Francisco, Sri Sri Gaura Nitai, will be taken by ISKCON Scotland, arranged by Balabhadra prabhu.

312

That a Committee be appointed to study the current child protection guidelines and present a revised comprehensive version (with regional variations) by next year’s meeting. The Chairman will be Bir Krsna Maharaja. Members will include Yasoda devi dasi, Murlivadaka dasa, Bhurijan dasa, Jayapataka Swami, Amarendra dasa, Sesa dasa, and all current members of the board of Education.

Bir Krsna Maharaja shall ask GBC members if they need a regional variation on the guidelines, and, if so, who they will assign to be their liaison and regional representative.

313

That Hrdayananda Goswami be the GBC minister of Advanced Vaisnava studies.

314

That the GBC body gives its unanimous thanks His Holiness Bhakti Marg Swami for his twenty plus years of service in ISKCON Toronto and offers its blessings for his planned Centennial offering, Padayatra across Canada.

315.

That the GBC body welcomes Visvambhara Prabhu’s return to active preaching within ISKCON and gives its blessing for his preaching activities in France. The GBC body also hereby appeals to other French-speaking preachers to visit France, including:

Divya Purursha dasa (China); Akrura dasa (Germany); Ajita dasa (Australia); Vishaka dasi (Bombay); Prasanta dasi and Gaurangi dasi (Centennial); Acaryavana dasa (London); Kaliyapani dasa (London); and Radha Caran das (Australia).

316.

That Navayogendra Swami be confirmed as Candidate for GBC for Jamnu and Kashmir, Haridwar and Rishikesh, sharing responsibility with Harivilas Prabhu, the GBC representative for these areas. In addition, Navayogendra Maharaja will share GBC responsibility for Goa, Lucknow, and Himachal Pradesh with Gopal Krishna Maharaja. (Executive memo attached to this resolution).

317.

That Murali Krsna dasa be reinstated as a full and active member of ISKCON in good standing.

318

The GBC Body authorizes the present North American GBC Executive Committee to deal with the Long Island temple as they decide in consultation with the GBC Executive Committee.

319

H. G. Vaidyanatha dasa is confirmed as a Candidate for GBC.

320

In light of his many qualifications and the immense potential for spreading Krishna consciousness in southern Ontario, the GBC Body requests Kratu prabhu to take up the service of temple president for ISKCON Toronto. The Executive committee shall issue a letter of invitation.

322 (Unpublished)

323

That the ISKCON Oath of Allegiance 95 be amended to read as follows:

1) To accept His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada as the Founder Acarya and Supreme Authority of ISKCON. To follow his teachings, instructions and directions.;

2) to accept the Governing Body Commission of ISKCON as the ultimate managing authority of ISKCON as directed in Srila Prabhupada’s last will and testament.

3) To abide by the Society's spiritual rules, namely no illicit sex, no intoxication, no gambling, no meat-eating and chant a minimum of sixteen rounds of maha-mantra japa every day. To follow the principles set forth in Srila Prabhupada's books.

4) To accept that all ISKCON's funds, assets and properties under my control or direction, including anything ISKCON may have acquired under my direction, is the sole property of ISKCON and in the event of my death, resignation or other relinquishment of all ISKCON responsibilities, all these shall accrue solely to ISKCON and at all times I shall have no claim on them whatsoever.

5) To be guided by the spiritual directions of ISKCON’s management, to cooperate with the local GBC representative, and to fulfill my duties in a serving spirit never intentionally acting against ISKCON’s interests.

6) I will maintain the spiritual programs, standards, and teaching established by Srila Prabhupada in the projects and with the devotees placed in my care. I further agree not to involve the society or those devotees placed under my care in any activities contrary to the above mentioned principles.

324

That Balabhadra prabhu be accepted as “candidate for GBC” for Scotland and Ireland, subject to approval of local devotees in consultation with the Executive Committee and Rohini Suta Prabhu’s approval of Scotland yatra’s SKP techniques.

Resolutions Regarding ISKCON Organization and Development

401

1. (ISKCON Law) That an ISKCON central secretariat shall be created to facilitate the management of ISKCON.

2. The ICS (ISKCON Central Secretariat) shall be organized and managed by the Finance & Management Minister, who at present is HG Naveen Krishna Dasa.

3. The ICS shall:

a. Create and maintain a database of information of all temples in the World and monitor’s areas of responsibility.

b. Develop and implement a practical system of reporting by consulting Monitors, GBC’s and Temple Presidents as to what they require, desire and are capable of providing. As far as possible implementation shall be done through “Regional” Committees (Regional, National, Zonal, Continental as the case may be).

c. Develop a database that may contain statistical information of:

1. Temple Finances assets & liabilities, Annual income & expenses)

2. Temples/Managers Contacts (addresses, phone/fax, etc.)

3. Details of owned properties

4. Complete data on all transactions with Temple buildings.

5. Progress towards fulfilling mission statements.

6. Annual reports for all ministries.

7. Devotee bio-data.

8. And any other information deemed useful

d. Present reports shall in a format useful for the individual Ministers, GBC Zonal Secretaries, Committees, and ISKCON Managers.

e. Provide global status reports on ISKCON international projects.

4. Areas which are declared as a security risk for reporting purposes may not have to report. This arrangement can be made between the local GBC and the Secretariat.

402

[GBC Rule] Considering that there will be urgent matters requiring resolution by the GBC body at the annual meeting there shall be permanent working committees which may be created as required. Members shall be assigned every year.

[Standing Order] Resolving Internal Conflicts and Emergencies, Philosophical Issues, Zonal Reorganization & Appointments shall be permanent working committees.

3. The GBC Meeting Planning Committee shall see to it that the Standing Committees meet on different days than the Ksetra Committees.

403

The following amendments to existing laws are accepted.

1. That a Minister shall be appointed by the GBC Body for each Statement of Mission.

His prime duties are to become expert in his field, to act as a professor, to establish the curriculum of his discipline and disseminate this knowledge throughout ISKCON.

The Minister's mandate is:
a) To educate Zonal Secretaries and ISKCON Managers how to take practical steps towards achieving the Statement of Mission and Progressive Goals;
b) To monitor ISKCON's progress in his area.
c) To work through the regular ISKCON administrators, and not independently unless requested.
d) To make reports as required.
e) To create a staff as required including advisers (who are experts in the field).

2. GBC Standing Committees, known as Kshetra Committees shall be comprised of the Ministers of the committee's topics , assigned GBC Members, and any other qualified devotees as the GBC deems necessary. The committee shall have a permanent chairman and permanent members. A Kshetra Committee has the following purposes:

To find Ministers who are committed and qualified to develop their field.

To insure that each Minister fulfills his duties.

A Kshetra Committee shall have the following general duties:
a) To evaluate the progress reports of the Ministers, and other related information, and when required make proposals to the GBC body;
b) To create integrated strategies for preaching and advancement of the mission of ISKCON.;
c) To refer issues to other standing committees as required;
d) To continue meeting during the year in person or by correspondence;
e) To otherwise act as a standing sub-committee to the GBC body and perform such duties as the GBC delegates to it from time to time.

The procedure for dealing with proposals shall be:

a) To identify and reformulate essential issues of a proposal to present to the GBC to save plenary session time and energy.

b)To formulate the issues, the history, the original proposal if it was rewritten, as well as the rationale behind all their decisions and present them to the GBC body.

c)To present proposals in one of three categories
i) Recommendations that receive a consensus (a majority for with no opposing vote): The GBC shall be requested to pass the proposal, no alternative proposal will be required;
ii) Recommendations that do not receive a consensus: The GBC shall be requested to review the issues and decide amongst alternative proposals;
iii) Requests for direction from the plenary body.

The proposals shall be accompanied with the details of the vote results.
d) To ask the GBC body for direction when questions of principle or differences of opinion arise;
e) To reconsider matters which the GBC body has given direction;
f) To refer matters back to Ministers when additional work is needed before it can be presented to the GBC;

3. That the Ksetra Committees shall be reassigned ministries for better efficiency. If other changes of ministries are required the GBC Agenda Planning Committee shall be empowered to make them. The Ksetra committees shall be reorganized as follows:

Ksetra Committee 1 - Essential Preaching

Book Distribution

Public Chanting and Festivals

Prasadam Distribution:

Food for Life

Restaurants

Congregational Programs

Ksetra Committee 2 - Specialized Preaching

Scientific Preaching

"College" Preaching

Youth Preaching

Padayatra

Cultural Programs

Ksetra Committee 3 - Education and Spiritual Development

Gurukula

Adult education

Spiritual Standards

Training New Bhaktas

Ksetra Committee 4 Essential ISKCON Infrastructure for preaching.

Fund Raising

Management and Administration

Finance and Accounting

Communications

Ksetra Committee 5 - Holy Places & Communities:

Mayapur and Vrindaban

Deity Worship

Spiritual Communities

Daiva-varnasram development

Cow-Protection

Self-sufficiency

Temples as places of pilgrimage [Tirthas]

Ksetra Committee 6-- International ISKCON

Justice Systems

Legal Affairs

Unity of ISKCON

Zonal Affairs

Constitutional Issues

404 (Unpublished)

405

WHEREAS standing GBC Divisional Councils with permanent membership can give the Society strength, continuity and an increasingly more expert group of managers who can assist the GBC in its management.

WHEREAS there is need for a platform for:

1. association amongst peers.

2. exchanging new ideas.

3. taking inspiration from others successes.

4. discussing GBC Divisional preaching strategies

Therefore it is hereby resolved that:

ISKCON recognizes "GBC Divisional Councils" as a distinct level of spiritual management of the society. A GBC Divisional council is assigned for a particular geographic area and shall be constituted of all temple presidents and Regional secretaries and the GBC Zonal Secretary (if he wants to attend) within the region as well as resident sannyasis or other leading devotees as the council desires or the local GBC recommends. The GBC Divisional Council represents the interests of ISKCON, the GBC Zonal Secretary and the temples in a particular geographical area. Such councils may be continental, multi-national, national, or within a country, as is practical or existing. The councils should be within an area that enables them to meet frequently together. There may be more than one GBC Divisional Council in a Continental Committee's area.

GBC Zonal Secretaries who have areas which have functioning GBC Divisional councils shall declare them as so for the purpose of this ISKCON Law.

The purpose of the GBC Divisional councils is to maximize the management in their regions, to relieve the GBC zonal secretaries from excessive management, and to assist the GBC Executive Committee and the GBC Emergency Task Force by resolving their problems.

They shall:

1. Work as an extension of the management of the GBC Zonal Secretary to maximize the efficiency of accomplishing the mission of ISKCON in their region.

2. Meet regularly as required. They must meet at least twice a year, but can meet monthly or more if the need arises. 

3. Have officers.

4. Maintain an official minute book in which all resolutions are recorded.

5. Resolve all issues given them by their GBC zonal secretary or secretaries, the GBC Chairman and the Minister of Emergencies.

6. Examine the situation within their region and create the means by which potential problems can be resolved before they become a crisis.

7. Collect the monthly reports on behalf of the GBC Zonal Secretary from the temples in their region, analyze these reports, and recommend action to the Temple Presidents when the need arises.

8. Send copies of all reports to the GBC Zonal Secretary and the official reports in prescribed form to the ISKCON Secretariat for processing and archiving.

9. Insure that the proper standards of management and conduct are maintained by the temple managers in the region.

10. Decide disciplinary matters according to ISKCON Law for ISKCON Managers within their region.

11. As needed, suggest new appointments for temple presidentships to the local GBC for final approval.

12. Suggest means to rectify severe financial problems within a temple or reorganize the temple if required.

13. Approve all requests for sannyas within their area of responsibility.

14. Have its members serve on the "10-man committee" required by ISKCON Law for considering the nomination of candidates who reside within their area of responsibility for serving as new initiating gurus.

[Standing Order:]

1. That the Organization and Development committee make a survey of all GBC men to find out which "Regional", "Zonal" or other councils which are presently functioning in ISKCON and could easily be established as GBC Divisional councils. When the most practical arrangement of GBC Divisional management is uncovered, the committee shall present to the GBC body the complete list of world-wide GBC Divisional councils with the list of its members which will then be officially recognized as a constitutional part of ISKCON management structure.

2. Those GBC men who have areas which do not have any functioning GBC Divisional councils shall create one or more before the end of the 1996 annual meeting.

The following is accepted as a position paper on GBC Divisional management.

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