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Michigan Branch Grand Opening
The new Michigan Branch Grand Opening Celebration weekend on September 13 and 14, 2008, was a great success. After many months of hard work, dedication and sacrifice, the renovation of our new Temple, lower level offices and newly built extension, and the purchasing and updating of the rectory which flanks our property, all came to a joyous and uplifting conclusion on this auspicious weekend. It was time to celebrate and enjoy the fruits of our labor. Two Directors from the American Headquarters and Members from all over the United States and Canada came to share this momentous and historic. To be really honest, huge relief was felt by the fantastic team of people who had worked so hard and contributed in so many ways that this long-anticipated day had finally arrived. The church we had purchased was unused and quite neglected. This meant a tremendous amount of hard work, gutting certain areas and salvaging others that were useable. It entailed building an extension, which now serves as a reception area, bathroom, bookstall area and healing room. Major landscaping was done and a new canopy installed with The Aetherius Society name and logo. We bought a house flanking our property, to house some of the Staff Team, installed a new roof and windows, updated all the flooring and completed repairs and painting. Contributions came in from around the world. Our hearts were warmed that people came forward to help in such an important project. Not only is our Temple a spiritual lighthouse, but it will be enhanced in a colossal way when our Spiritual Energy Radiator goes on the air some time in 2009. We warmly thank everyone who contributed in so many ways ~ large and small ~ so that the new Michigan Branch, could play its vital role in the future. •••
During the week preceding the Grand Opening, members began to arrive. We were honored to have two Directors from the American Headquarters travel 2,000 miles to attend – Executive Secretary Brian Keneipp, and, on her first visit to Michigan, Treasurer, Lesley Young. Their presence made everything that much more special.
On the evening of Friday, September 12th, the place was abuzz with activity. There was great excitement: we could hardly believe that finally our Grand Opening would take place. Extra chairs had to be rented, the caterer arrived and was doing preliminary set up, programs were being reviewed and a final review of mundane, but necessary, tasks was made. Finally we all went home in anticipation of the next morning’s festivities.
Saturday, September 13th
Some cultures believe that it is auspicious when it rains on days of importance ~ that it is a blessing. If that is true then our Grand Opening was most abundantly blessed – there was virtually non-stop rain on Saturday and rain on and off on Sunday as the tail-end of Hurricane Ike blew through. Even our lower level floor was blessed with rainwater pouring in, as the heavens overloaded our drainage system. Not even this could dampen our spirits though. As people entered our Temple for the first time they would pause at the entrance for a moment and gaze at the surroundings. Some said the Temple had a wonderful feeling, some mentioned the beauty and everyone seemed pleased with it. As the music played, Members from the east coast, west coast, Toronto, Northern Michigan and specially invited guests greeted each other, some meeting for the first time –a very happy note on which to begin the day. Master of Ceremonies, Branch Organizer Dave Capraro came to the podium and the long-awaited celebration commenced. After words of warm welcome, faxes of good wishes were read out. It was wonderful to know that so many of our spiritual brothers and sisters in the world were with us in spirit. We then received the fantastic news that there would be a special one-hour Operation Space Power II Run at the American Headquarters sending out energy to enhance our celebrations. And, there is no doubt, our celebratory weekend was so enhanced: a wonderful, joyous atmosphere pervaded our Temple throughout the weekend, noticed and commented on by many. Rev. Chrissie Blaze gave a beautiful dedication and prayer and Revs. Lesley Young and Brian Keneipp gave two heartwarming addresses. Here is a short extract from Lesley’s:
“It has been a long and sometimes bumpy road for the Michigan Branch to reach this point. For many years, while you were a major center here in the Mid-West, you also played an essential role in supporting the American Headquarters ~ helping our Master and his mission for our world. And I think that throughout all those years, the Michigan Branch Staff and Members demonstrated an exemplary spiritual dedication and loyalty both to our Master and the great cause in which he led us… “If you look back through the years at all the stupendous accomplishments of our Master ~ you can be justly proud of the part you played in this… “Throughout all those years, the Michigan Branch was there, at our Master’s side, so to speak, providing vitally needed funds ~ and more than that ~ you gave valuable personnel who joined the Society in Michigan, received some training and then off they went to the Headquarters to join the Staff in Los Angeles… “I must make mention here of your first Branch Organizer ~ Rev. Edna Spencer ~ who I feel sure you’ll all credit as a major factor in the success of the Michigan Branch. This extraordinary lady ~ one of the very first Members of The Aetherius Society in America ~ laid the solid foundations upon which your Branch is built by her exceptional devotion, single-minded dedication, courage, grit, hard work, complete loyalty, determination, tenacity ~ fantastic promotional efforts ~ one can hardly speak too highly of this wonderful lady. I feel sure that from wherever she is, she must feel very proud today… “It’s truly an amazing and exciting time in the history of the Branch, of The Aetherius Society and of the world, and I rejoice with all my heart that this wonderful Branch is stepping up to such heights of Spiritual achievement. I believe our Master would be overjoyed, and I think he’d give you a big pat on the back, tell you how pleased he is ~ and then say, ‘Now get on and work twice as hard for The Aetherius Society!’ ”
Rev. Nancy Tatar announced a video presentation, put together by Richard Watson, who made a video record of the renovations. Even though it captured only a fraction of all that had transpired over the past two years since the purchase of this property, the video encapsulated the transformation of our Temple and the fantastic cooperation of our membership. Maybe a silent groan came from the Members as they revisited the shrill noise of saws cutting wood, the dust and dirt, hammers and nails, paint and ladders, the sound of heavy equipment smashing concrete and drilling through brick walls. Yes, it definitely brought back vivid memories. Many commented said what a fantastic video presentation this was, and we thank Dick for his excellent production.
Certificate of Merit Presentation
After a short break Nancy read out the names of each person receiving a Certificate of Merit. Dave occasionally added a few words about the recipient, and Brian and Lesley presented the certificate. There were also Certificates of Recognition for guests who had helped our Branch as well. Three Temple Degree Initiation Robe upgrades were also presented. Surprise. The Board of Directors presented a plaque to three Staff Team Members who had manned the Branch for many years. We congratulate Brian and Lesley for this well-kept secret, smuggling the beautiful, well-deserved plaque into the Temple. David Capraro, Nancy Tatar and David Wilson are an inspiration to all of us for the tremendous dedication they have shown over many years running our Branch. The plaque read as follows: Presented to
The Rev. David J. Capraro
The Rev. Nancy E. Tatar
and David J. Wilson
In appreciation of your loyalty,
dedication and hard work
as Committee Team Members at the
Michigan Branch over many years,
enabling the purchase and renovation
of the new Temple and property in Royal Oak.
May God’s Blessings be with you
as you go forward in this positive new phase
of the Michigan Branch
The Board of Directors
The Aetherius Society
September2008 Surprises were also in store for the Directors themselves. A surprise plaque was accepted by Brian and Lesley on behalf of the American Headquarters Directors. There was a standing ovation in joyous appreciation for their support as they accepted this plaque, which reads as follows: To The Directors
The Aetherius Society, U.S.A.
In appreciation of your outstanding dedication to The Aetherius Society
for many years, and in gratitude for the support you have given
us throughout the purchase and renovation of the
Michigan Branch Temple and property in Royal Oak.
May you be protected and blessed by God’s Light in your work for our Holy Order.
The Committee, Staff and Members
Michigan Branch
Video Presentation of our Master
Following the Certificates of Merit presentation, Rev. Gary Blaze gave an inspiring introduction to a video of our Master. During this very moving film, our Master recites a powerful mantra as he blesses the Los Angeles Temple. It was a joy to see him and was the perfect touch for this special day. Chrissie Blaze gave a heartfelt closing prayer, and David announced our celebratory luncheon.
Celebratory Luncheon This was beautifully served by the caterer and was absolutely delicious. There was a wonderful menu and many people said how much they enjoyed it. Fifty-two members and invited guests were there. We only wished others who lived too far away to attend, could have been with us. After a long and challenging two years, the day came to a close. In spite of the rain which continued non-stop throughout the day, a tremendous joy and upliftment permeated the entire day. Many, many positive comments were made about the fantastic atmosphere, and everyone left, knowing that there was still much more to be experienced the next day as the celebrations continue. Visiting Members The Staff and Members of the Michigan Branch want to thank all those who traveled so far to attend our Grand Opening. We appreciate their efforts to share this very special occasion with us. It was wonderful to see old friends and meet new ones and their presence added to the joy of the occasion. Those who joined us on this auspicious day were as follows: California: Rev. Brian Keneipp, Rev. Lesley Young, Kalan Brunink, Mary Ann Knight, Elaine Medway.
Toronto: Ann Coleman, Jane Holubik, Allan Jaggard, Michael McCulloch, Kathy Preville, Gino Scialdone, Laura Shapiro, Lidia Scialdone, Sandra Pasqualini
Virginia: Olivia Ellis
New Jersey: Jay Fisher
N. Michigan: Janette Hough, Keith Hough
Delaware: Lafayette Stevens
Illinois: Joanne Foucek
Sunday, September 14th
50th Anniversary Service in honor of the giving of the Eighth Blessing On Sunday morning as Members arrived, there was more excitement in the air. For some people, it would be their first Divine Service in our temple. The service itself was special – the 50th Anniversary of the giving of the Eighth Blessing, to the Mighty Sun. Rain continued on and off on this dark, cloudy day, yet it mattered not. Our temple was filled with light and love. Revs. Gary Blaze and Bonnie Watson conducted the service, and later received many positive comments on how uplifting, meaningful and powerful it had been.
Guest Speaker, Dr. A. T. Ariyaratane At l:30 pm, the temple was filled, with almost 90 people, for the afternoon’s festivities.
Dr. Ari< Mahatma Gandhi Peace Prize recipient and founder/president of Sri Lanka’s Sarvodaya Movement, gave an inspiring talk about Buddha’s teachings and related it to our Grand Opening and our work of Spiritual Energy manipulation of which he spoke very highly. Spiritual Technology of the West Meets the Yoga of the East Following this inspiring talk, Dave and Chrissie gave an informative talk, Spiritual Technology of the West Meets the Yoga of the East. This was about Operation Prayer Power and was designed to inspire and educate the guests who were visiting our Temple for the very first time. Seventy-eight people returned after a short break to take part in the first public Operation Prayer Power Charging Sessions in the new building. Operation Prayer Power Public Charging Sessions With close to 30 first-time attenders, we were amazed at how well the mantra sounded for both Charging Sessions and most of the new attenders seemed to be right into it throughout both sessions. Strong mantra rang out , and the Prayer Team put their heart and soul into the holy Blessings. The long-awaited celebrations finally came to a close with a final prayer of thankfulness after two powerful Charging Sessions. What a glorious way to conclude our Grand Opening weekend! ••• As Members and friends bid farewell to one another, there was a bit of sadness that the weekend had come to an end, yet, at the same time, we were filled with great. With the celebrations behind us, we now look forward to an important and exciting future – one which will require hard work, dedication and sacrifice and determination, and will guarantee glorious Spiritual accomplishment, and the arrival of a Spiritual Energy Radiator some time in 2009. So, it is back to rolling up our sleeves as we enter a new phase in our branch history. We have a vital role to play ~ as do all Aetherius Society Centers throughout the world. We are proud to be a part of such an amazing Order, and must stand strong and firm in days to come. Much work is ahead of us as we play our part in the great Cosmic Plan. We thank Staff, Members and friends throughout the world who have helped us to reach this day. And most of all, we thank our beloved Master for giving us so many opportunities to be of service to our suffering world. May we always be inspired to follow his shining example, and may God’s most abundant blessings imbue his loving heart and soul, wherever he may be. And now, one chapter silently closes and another begins…
Comments
We received many positive comments about the celebrations… here are just two expressions which seem to capture it all…
“Just a note to say how wonderful the entire Grand Opening weekend was. Soooo amazing. Really. I was so touched so many times throughout the weekend. It was one great moment after another. I felt so proud, so thankful, so… words can’t describe. It brought tears to my eyes several times. "From the time I arrived on Friday to the time I sadly left on Sunday, it was so great. The care that went into the presentation of our new church really showed. It seemed to beam with pride with its newly displayed awning. The delicious luncheon, the heartfelt spoken words, the powerful recording of our Master’s blessings and mantra, the visualization practice you could actually feel. Dr. Ari’s wise words, the love shared by all and to top it all off, the overwhelming public Operation Prayer Power Sessions that rang so beautifully under the arched ceiling. How wonderful was that. All of which will be a cherished memory.” Kathy Preville, Toronto "How many times had we read and talked about Oneness and the need for actualizing it before we could advance? How many times had we resolved to work harder at it? Try as we might, achieving it invariably seemed elusive. "But on September 13, in Royal Oak, Michigan, we merged with it effortlessly and instantly. Forty-eight hours later we were still in it, still in what seemed like heaven with no sense of time or its passage. We were happy as children who marvel at all they see and feel. We understood the magic and meaning of Being. We were in the Now.” Olivia Ellis
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