Typically, a Center should have a weekly devotion meeting that includes devotional singing, prayer, and meditation (or silent sitting). The Center should also have a weekly study circle, which may be combined with the devotion meeting —the combined meeting could last for 1.5 to 2 hours.
The weekly devotion meeting, with its devotional singing, is the highlight of the week for many devotees. It can be an intensely spiritual activity in which the focus on each song and its meaning brings one closer to the Lord. Achieving this state requires cooperation from all — those preparing and coordinating the program, the lead singers, the musicians, and the participants.
It should be kept in mind that:
•Cooperation is essential for the most spiritual benefit. The aim is to experience unity.
•Selfless service is what we give to the Center during the devotion meeting. Singers, musicians, etc. must concentrate on this selfless service and leave out the concept that their performances are a chance for personal aggrandizement.
•Knowledge and wisdom can also be achieved through understanding the meaning of the words and concepts in the speeches and songs.
•Devotional singing must be done with great discipline; punctuality, concentration, and mutual respect must be observed.
•Devotion involves offering our best efforts to the Lord.
Where my devotees sing, there I install Myself. [1960.9.27] Sathya Sai Baba
Group devotional singing has a different purpose from silent individual prayers. It is a
mutual effort of spiritual practice to overcome the six foes of man: lust, anger, greed, attachment,
conceit, and hatred. [1975.4.1] Sathya Sai Baba
Singing the name by a group of people can help the process of liberation not only for the
members of the group. It will benefit those who listen and even those beyond the circle of
listeners —the whole world can benefit from the vibrations. [1982.1.26] Sathya Sai Baba
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