By Nrisimha Kavaca Das – ISKCON Deity Worship Minister
I think that the Congregational Development Ministry is doing wonderful work. Over the last 10 years, ISKCON has become a more congregational-based society. The work of helping develop the congregation and improve the standard of bhakti-yoga is a very important aspect of Krsna consciousness.
In Australia (where I am from) the majority of temple-goers in Melbourne are congregation members. They play a very active role in the pushing on the preaching mission of Lord Caitanya. They are involved in contact preaching and home programs.
Every weekend there are many programs organized by the congregation. They are strictly following the principles. Many are from India and some are local devotees. They really work hard to push on Krsna consciousness.
Prabhupada wanted devotees who live close to the temple to come and worship the temple deities or at least attend the morning program. He felt that if all the devotees could work cooperatively in a spirit of serving the temple deities, then the mission will go on very nicely.
It is imperative amongst all the devotees that we appreciate each others’ devotion and ability. We shouldn’t say, “They don’t follow this standard like I’m following, so they are not as good.” Every person has their realization and their capacity. We should appreciate that, and instead of discriminating, look for unity.
(Excerpt from the book ‘The Nectar of Congregational Preaching’ by ISKCON Congregational Development Ministry)
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