Recently the Chinmaya Setukari group in DC hosted an annual retreat “Reuniting Through Uniting” at Chinmaya Somnath in Chantilly, VA, USA. For more than ten years, Chinmaya Yuva Kendra and Chinmaya Setukari members of Chinmaya Mission Washington Regional Centre have hosted retreats for seekers from DC, MD, VA and beyond.

Under the guidance of Shri Vivek Gupta of Chinmaya Mission Niagara, seekers explored Bhakti Yoga from Chapter 12 of Bhagavad Gita through profound satsang, thought-provoking discussions and enriching activities such as a dance competition for ego erasers (ice-breakers), drawing one’s spirit animal to think about strengths and fears, and an Open Mic night where seekers expressed their devotion through their individual talents.

There was also a Chat & Chai satsang with Shri Rao and Smt Richa to hear their insights into Sanatana Dharma. This was an opportunity to ask deep spiritual questions in an informal and comfortable setting.

Seekers also gathered for Fireside Chats, a treasured tradition, in which everyone split into small discussion groups and shared their thoughts or an anecdote based on a selection of thought-provoking prompts. Participants were able to connect with each other on a much deeper level during these discussions.

As the retreat came to a close, Shri Vivek Gupta organized a workshop on advocacy to demonstrate how to turn devotion into selfless action.

True to this year’s theme “Reuniting Through Uniting”, the retreat helped the seekers unite with the Lord by reuniting with each other.