Please join us for a special program this Memorial Day, May 26, at the Vedanta Retreat in Marin County, as we mark the 125th anniversary of the founding of the Vedanta Society of Northern California by Swami Vivekananda. Come for a day of spiritual enrichment as we commemorate this milestone and reflect on the enduring legacy of Vivekananda’s teachings in a beautiful retreat setting.
Swami Vivekananda’s arrival in the Bay Area in February 1900 marked the beginning of a profound engagement between Eastern spirituality and the West in California. He established the Vedanta Society in San Francisco on April 14, 1900, with the dual purpose of assisting his work in India and disseminating the Vedanta philosophy. His approach to Vedanta was innovative, espousing a universal spiritual humanism that recognized the inherent divinity and inner strength of each individual.
Vivekananda’s Vedanta embraced the modern world while it encouraged self-inquiry and Self-realization. His approach remained deeply rooted in the ancient Vedanta tradition as he consistently drew upon the Upanishads, emphasizing the core principle of the oneness of existence. He aimed to revive the essence of the Vedas while advocating for a highly egalitarian society where true inner freedom is accessible to all—where, in fact, it is the destiny of all.
To mark this special anniversary, we are honored to have several senior monastics of the Ramakrishna Order share their insights: Swami Chetanananda, Swami Shantatmananda, Swami Atmarupananda, Swami Tattwamayananda, and Pravrajika Brahmaprana will speak on the theme of 125 Years of Vedanta in America. This is a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of Vedanta’s continuing relevance in the West and in your life.
This program will be held at the Vedanta Retreat in Olema, California, on May 26, from 10 AM – 4:30 PM. A light lunch and refreshments will be served. Join us to immerse yourself in the profound teachings of Swami Vivekananda and share in the fellowship of spiritual seekers on this historic anniversary. To learn more, visit sfvedanta.org or RSVP here.