As we approach the end of 2023, we are filled with gratitude and joy for the journey we have shared over the past twelve months at the Center. It has been a year of growth, transformation, and unwavering community support. Here’s a recap of the highlights and accomplishments that have shaped our spiritual sanctuary.

CARING FOR OUR SPIRITUAL HOME

Our commitment to providing a conducive environment for spiritual practice has led us to invest in several facility upgrades. From the Temple Fire Project to enhanced HVAC systems in three buildings, new water heaters and water filtration in all buildings, repaired gas lines and sewer plumbing in two buildings, and installed ventilation in all restrooms, we’ve worked tirelessly to create a safe and comfortable space for everyone. 

We’ve also installed new energy-efficient windows for ventilation and noise reduction in Lahiri Retreat House and a new gate adjacent to it to allow security and beauty to that area. We’ve updated our security cameras with new technology and improved and integrated floodlights. And we’ve repaired the roof over the Tree of Life Welcome Center.

OPENING THE MEDITATION GARDENS

Our thriving “Community Meditation Gardens” are open to all to experience tranquility where sustainable practices, such as the cultivation of drought-tolerant plants, contribute to their flourishing beauty. Our commitment to the environment extends to carefully maintaining the majestic oak tree and numerous other trees on the property, ensuring their well-being through annual care provided by reputable arborists.

The fully renovated Tree of Life Welcome Center hosts a curated selection of offerings, including books, Ayurveda products, devotional altar items, shawls, and more. CSE members and those from the broader community come to be immersed in a sanctuary that nurtures both the soul and the environment.

FOSTERING GLOBAL COMMUNITY

Embracing the digital era, we’ve migrated our online courses to a new KriyaYogaStudies.com platform for easier access. The ellengraceobrian.com website has been revamped for a more user-friendly experience, offering valuable insights, inspiration, and information. An e-commerce store has been set up for Yogacharya O’Brian’s publications, making them easily accessible.

We’re thrilled to share the flourishing success of The Yoga Hour podcast, with monthly downloads soaring to an impressive average of over 6,500! Our listenership extends far and wide, reaching across the United States and spanning the globe to Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Ireland, Mexico, Norway, Italy, and beyond.

The momentum doesn’t stop there—our meditation outreach is making waves as CSE affiliate centers and meditation groups in Gilroy, Los Osos, Santa Rosa, and Salisbury, MD, actively share the transformative teachings of Kriya Yoga. We’re honored to serve our global community with daily online meditation groups in the mornings and afternoons, as well as on Monday evenings, along with regular meditation classes.

Our online platforms have been upgraded to deliver high-quality live-streamed sessions, fostering a sense of unity and connection among our global community. The Dakshinamurti Temple in the Grace Building now has new AV equipment, ensuring an enriched experience for all.

NURTURING SPIRITUAL RENEWAL

Our diverse programs and retreats have continued to nurture spiritual growth. Sunday Satsangs have flourished, with the community gathering under the majestic oak tree during summer and recently returning to the Temple for the winter months. Our Satsang webpage now includes a drop-down option that allows you to view previously recorded Satsangs.

Over the year, we have been blessed with several opportunities to be with our esteemed teacher, Yogacharya Ellen Grace O’Brian, as she guides us on our spiritual journey. Her weekly Gita study on the Kriya Yoga Today podcast has been an invaluable resource for diving deep into the practical wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita. In addition, Yogacharya O’Brian has blessed us with transformative retreats in 2023, including the New Year Kriya Retreat, Silent Retreat, Retreat for Disciples, and our Summer Kriya Retreat, where many participants have embraced spiritual renewal and self-discovery.

We also launched the onsite Kriya Yoga Meditation Teacher Training program this summer, which was well-attended and included participants from across California, Oregon, Colorado, and Italy.

CSE Teachers offered many inspiring programs this year, including a nine-month Live Your Spiritual Practice online course with comprehensive teachings and small group meetings to support spiritual integration. The program culminated in a community retreat. We offered a retreat weekend for householders and several one-day retreats ranging from hatha yoga or walking retreats to gardening and silent retreat days. Our new Yoga and Spiritual Education for Kids, where young hearts dive into the joys of yoga, mindfulness, and self-discovery, was offered regularly.  

Yogacharya O’Brian and CSE Teachers led annual holy day celebrations, including Maha Shivaratri, Guru Purnima, and our Kriya Yoga lineage remembrance days.

EMBRACING PERSONAL RETREATS

We’re excited to announce that we’ve formally launched our Personal Retreat Program, inviting individuals to experience the sanctuary of our Center throughout the year. With twenty-four retreat spaces and various lodging options, it’s an opportunity for personal reflection and rejuvenation, whether attending a retreat program or spending time on private retreat.

CARING FOR OUR COMMUNITY

Our ministers continue to serve and support people along their spiritual journey by offering spiritual direction, Vedic counseling, and officiating weddings, memorials, and blessing ceremonies. The Prayer Ministry Team diligently attends to daily prayer requests, creating a supportive network of care. 

Meanwhile, our vibrant Volunteer Ministry is steadily growing, with community members actively engaged in various aspects of our ministry. Whether extending warm greetings at the Welcome Center or Sunday Satsangs, caring for the gardens, setting up guest rooms for retreatants, preparing meals, or supporting online streaming from afar, our volunteers play a vital role in fostering a connected and thriving community.  

LEADING INTO THE FUTURE

CSE Board of Directors, Ministers, and Staff have been diligently working on a new Master Plan to guide the future of our work. This strategic initiative aims to align with our vision and serve the community with greater efficacy. We are also enhancing our Planned Giving and Newcomer programs to provide meaningful engagement opportunities.

As we reflect on the past year, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support and active participation. Your presence and contributions create a sanctuary of peace, compassion, and awakening for all. Together, let us continue to journey towards spiritual growth and transformation.

With love and gratitude on behalf of,

Yogacharya O’Brian, CSE Staff, Board, and Ministers