BAPS launches initiative involving service and spirituality

As the coronavirus pandemic continues to evolve, so does the community spirit. BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, through its Mandir in Brisbane, launched an initiative to feed the needy and bring solace at home through spirituality.

Following the call of service by its leader His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, BAPS has mobilised volunteers to serve and support the vulnerable and needy in the local community. “The spirit of service burns ever so bright,” said Jaynesh Brahmbhatt, spokesperson for BAPS Brisbane Mandir.

In collaboration with and through the goodwill of grocery stores, volunteers have delivered 150 essential relief kits to members of the community. As part of the initiative, freshly cooked vegetarian food is being served to many international students daily from 27 March. In times when there is uncertainty within the community, more than 100 volunteers are connecting with various families through phone calls to understand their circumstances, pray for their wellbeing, and assure them that support is available when needed.

BAPS has also teamed up with the Australian Red Cross to collect blood to meet the demand of the rapidly changing situation. His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj has guided to offer prayers every day in the form of a “mala” for the people fighting the coronavirus at the frontlines and those that are affected.

Devotees also participated through a live webcast in a special Nilkanth Varni Abhishek (ritual bathing) ceremony performed by Sadhus at Melbourne Temple to offer their prayers for the pandemic to subside.

During these trying times Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s credo, “In the joy of others, lies our own”, has inspired us to stand side-by-side to provide support when they need us the most and it has energised us to serve the community with all our vigour,” said Jaynesh.

BAPS volunteers at BAPS Brisbane Mandir with essential relief kits for members of the community

If you need assistance or would like to contribute to these efforts, please call 0426 061 086 or email baps. brisbanepr@gmail.com.