On August 16, Janmashtami Day, Swami Bodhasarananda, Assistant General Secretary of the Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, Belur Math dedicated the new temple at Kansas City, USA. The Vedanta Society of Kansas City was founded by Swami Satprakashananda in 1947 and is a branch centre of the Vedanta Society of St. Louis. Swami Chetanananda began working there in 1980, and in 2005 it was affiliated by Belur Math as a sub-centre.
On the day of dedication (10 am to 1 pm), Swami Chetanananda carried relics, while Swami Bodhasarananda, Swami Sarvadevananda, and others carried the images of Sri Ramakrishna, Holy Mother, Swamiji, and Sri Krishna. They encircled the centre and placed everything on the altar. Swami Shivarchanananda performed the sixteen items of worship and the homa fire, assisted by Swami Paritushtananda. During the worship service, the swamis chanted from the Upanishads, the Gita, and the Chandi. The morning program was well attended by over 170 devotees, and prasad with lunch was served to all.
The evening program (5 to 8 pm) was held at the Notre Dame de Sion High School auditorium. Following the vesper service, a cultural program took place. Rick Bagby, president of the Kansas Society, read out Revered President Maharaj’s message, and George Albertus, president of the St. Louis Society, read the General Secretary Maharaj’s message. Swami Bodhasarananda delivered the keynote address on Ramakrishna’s Message to the World. Swami Chetanananda, Swami Sarvadevananda, and others also spoke. It was a historic event, attended by devotees from all over the country. A beautiful souvenir was published and distributed. About 145 devotees and friends participated, and dinner was served to all.
The present centre stands on a serene four-acre campus, surrounded by abundant trees and greenery that greatly enhance the spiritual atmosphere. It was truly a memorable and blessed occasion.
