New Year Holiday Retreat, December 2008

Under the guidance of Siddheshvari Devi Ji, Radha Madhav Society hosted its first ever week-long New Year's retreat in Mississippi this year from December 25th to January 1st. The retreat was attended by both seasoned devotees, as well as many local newcomers, and was thoroughly enjoyed by all. Devotees stayed in cabins dotted along a beautiful lake, and enjoyed warm weather and sunshine throughout the week. Some of the highlights of the New Year's retreat included Nagar Sankeertan (outdoor chanting of the holy name), celebration of Diwali with a group aarti, antakshari on Shri Maharaj ji's bhajans, a delightful cultural program, and a wonderful glimpse into the life of Shri Chaitanya Mahabrabhu in a devotional film made in Bengal in 1959. The retreat ended in an unforgettable way as we brought in the New Year with a soul stirring chanting session of 'Hari Bol'. As the clock struck midnight we proceeded with a group aarti, celebrated with festive New Year's cakes, and continued into the night with fun and dancing. All the participants felt truly blessed to bring in the New Year in such a special and devotional way.