As the summer months come to a close, the Norwich Christian Meditation Centre is preparing to host a unique and exciting event that promises to inspire and challenge all who attend. On Friday, September 26, and Saturday, September 27, the Centre will welcome Brother John Martin Sahajananda, a Benedictine monk from India, for a two-day workshop titled “Where the Jordan and the Ganges Meet: The Gospels of Jesus Christ in light of the Upanishads”. This special event will take place at St Luke’s Church Centre in Norwich, providing a peaceful and reflective environment for participants to engage with Brother Martin’s teachings. The workshop offers a rare opportunity to explore the connections between Eastern and Western spiritual traditions, and how they can enrich our understanding of Jesus’ teachings.
Brother Martin, a Camaldolese Benedictine monk from Fr Bede Griffiths’ ashram in southern India, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the workshop. His unique perspective, shaped by his native Indian culture and his monastic training, will provide a fresh and thought-provoking lens through which to examine the Gospels. As Debbie from the Norwich Christian Meditation Centre notes, “He is coming to inspire, and perhaps challenge us, with interpretations of Jesus’ teaching through the lens of the spiritual traditions of Br Martin’s native India”. This promises to be a fascinating and enlightening experience, as participants will have the chance to engage with Brother Martin’s insights and reflections on the intersections between Christian and Eastern spiritualities. Whether you are a long-time student of spirituality or simply curious about the connections between different faith traditions, this workshop is sure to offer something of value and interest.
The two-day workshop will feature a range of activities and formats, designed to engage participants and foster a sense of community and reflection. Brother Martin will deliver talks on the theme, which will be followed by meditation sessions, discussions, and opportunities for questions and answers. These interactive elements will allow participants to delve deeper into the topics under consideration, and to share their own thoughts and insights with the group. To facilitate a sense of conviviality and connection among attendees, breaks will include teas, coffee, and refreshments, and participants are invited to bring their own lunch or take a short walk to the nearby Pavilion Cafe in Waterloo Park. This blend of intellectual exploration, spiritual practice, and social connection promises to create a rich and rewarding experience for all who attend.
The Norwich Christian Meditation Centre is committed to making this event accessible to as many people as possible. With this in mind, the Centre has set a reasonable price for attendance, with options to attend either one or both days of the workshop. The cost is £35 for a single day, or £55 for both days, and participants can reserve their place online through the Centre’s website or by contacting John O’Hanlon directly. For those who may be facing financial constraints, the Centre is also happy to discuss possible arrangements to ensure that the event remains inclusive and open to all. As the Centre notes, “If affordability is an issue, please contact John O’Hanlon on 07789 780799 or [email protected]” to explore possible options.
The workshop “Where the Jordan and the Ganges Meet” represents a unique opportunity to explore the intersections and convergences between Christian and Eastern spiritual traditions. By engaging with Brother Martin’s teachings and insights, participants will have the chance to deepen their understanding of Jesus’ message and its relevance to contemporary life. This event also reflects the Norwich Christian Meditation Centre’s commitment to fostering a sense of community and connection among people from diverse backgrounds and spiritual traditions. As the Centre prepares to welcome Brother Martin and participants from across the region, it is clear that this workshop will be a highlight of the autumn season, offering a chance to inspire, educate, and uplift all who attend.
In the weeks leading up to the workshop, the Norwich Christian Meditation Centre invites everyone to join them for this special event, which promises to be a memorable and enriching experience. Whether you are a regular attendee at the Centre or simply interested in exploring the intersections of faith and spirituality, “Where the Jordan and the Ganges Meet” is an event not to be missed. With its engaging format, expert guidance, and welcoming atmosphere, this two-day workshop is sure to inspire new insights, foster meaningful connections, and provide a deeper understanding of the universal principles that underlie the world’s great spiritual traditions. To reserve your place or learn more about the event, please visit the Centre’s website or contact John O’Hanlon directly – and join the Norwich Christian Meditation Centre for a weekend of discovery, reflection, and spiritual growth.
