---------------------------------------------------------- 4th q 2015.pdf · 4th quarter 2015...

TEMPLE TIMES

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4th Quarter 2015 October, November, December

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Navarathiriwith Special Alankaram

A Quarterly Publication of

Sri Meenakshi Temple Society Pearland, Texas

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Sri Meenakshi Temple Society17130 McLean Road, Pearland, TX 77584

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SRI MEENAKSHI TEMPLE SOCIETY

17130 McLean Road, Pearland, TX-77584

SPECIAL EVENTS – OCTOBER TO DECEMBER 2015

0ct-12 Mon Mahalaya Amavasya, Siva Abhishekam 0ct-13 Tues Oct-21 Weds Navarathri 9 days

0ct-16 Fri Navarathri 4th day Suvasini Puja 0ct-20 Tue Navarathri 8th day, DURGASHTAMI 0ct-21 Wed Navarathri 9th day, SARASWATHI puja 0ct-22 Thu Vijyaya Dashami, Sravanam Venkateswara Abhishekam 0ct-31 Sat Deepavali bazaar 10-Nov Tue Deepavali Katchi, Lakshmi Abhishekam 12-Nov 17-Nov Skanda Sashti begins (Nov. 12) , Subramaniya Abhishekam concludes

with Homam on Nov 17th 17-Nov Tue Ayyappa Mandala Puja begins, Ayyappa Abhishekam

22-Nov Sun 29-Nov Sun Main Temple Kumbhabishekam start Nov-22 Ganapathi Homam 29-Nov Sun 6th Kala Yagasala Pooja Homam

Main Temple Maha Kumbhabishekam 8-Dec Tue SRI KAISIKA DWADASI FESTIVAL

17-Dec Thu Danur masa Puja Begins 21-Dec Mon VAIKUNDA EKADESI, VENKATESWARA ABHISHEKAM 23-Dec Wed Pradosham, Nandi& Siva abhishekam procession after Deeparadhana 26-Dec Sat Ayyappa mandala puja, Ghee Abhishekam 27-Dec Sun Ayyappa mandala puja Completion, Pushpa Abhishekam 31-Dec Thu New Year Eve puja

MONTHLY SCHEDULED ABHISHEKAM DATES

OCT TO DEC 2015 OCT NOV DEC

Sukla Pradosham 25 23 23 Krishna Pradosham 10 9 8

Sukla Ekadasi 23 22 21 Krishna Ekadasi 8 7 7

Sankata Hara Chaturthi 1, 30 29 28 Moolam 19 15 12

Sashti 3,19 2, 17 1, 17 Krithigai 2 26 23

Punarvasu 6 2,29 27 Poornima 27 25 25 Ashtami 5, 21 4. 19 3, 19

Sukla Chaturthi 17 15 15 Sravanam 22 18 15


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SRI MEENAKSHI TEMPLE SOCIETY

17130 McLean Road, Pearland, TX-77584


0ct-12 Mon Mahalaya Amavasya, Siva Abhishekam 0ct-13 Tues Oct-21 Weds Navarathri 9 days

0ct-16 Fri Navarathri 4th day Suvasini Puja 0ct-20 Tue Navarathri 8th day, DURGASHTAMI 0ct-21 Wed Navarathri 9th day, SARASWATHI puja 0ct-22 Thu Vijyaya Dashami, Sravanam Venkateswara Abhishekam 0ct-31 Sat Deepavali bazaar 10-Nov Tue Deepavali Katchi, Lakshmi Abhishekam 12-Nov 17-Nov Skanda Sashti begins (Nov. 12) , Subramaniya Abhishekam concludes

with Homam on Nov 17th 17-Nov Tue Ayyappa Mandala Puja begins, Ayyappa Abhishekam

22-Nov Sun 29-Nov Sun Main Temple Kumbhabishekam start Nov-22 Ganapathi Homam 29-Nov Sun 6th Kala Yagasala Pooja Homam

Main Temple Maha Kumbhabishekam 8-Dec Tue SRI KAISIKA DWADASI FESTIVAL

17-Dec Thu Danur masa Puja Begins 21-Dec Mon VAIKUNDA EKADESI, VENKATESWARA ABHISHEKAM 23-Dec Wed Pradosham, Nandi& Siva abhishekam procession after Deeparadhana 26-Dec Sat Ayyappa mandala puja, Ghee Abhishekam 27-Dec Sun Ayyappa mandala puja Completion, Pushpa Abhishekam 31-Dec Thu New Year Eve puja

MONTHLY SCHEDULED ABHISHEKAM DATES

OCT TO DEC 2015 OCT NOV DEC

Sukla Pradosham 25 23 23 Krishna Pradosham 10 9 8

Sukla Ekadasi 23 22 21 Krishna Ekadasi 8 7 7

Sankata Hara Chaturthi 1, 30 29 28 Moolam 19 15 12

Sashti 3,19 2, 17 1, 17 Krithigai 2 26 23

Punarvasu 6 2,29 27 Poornima 27 25 25 Ashtami 5, 21 4. 19 3, 19

Sukla Chaturthi 17 15 15 Sravanam 22 18 15

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A MESSAGE FROM THE MTS BOARDMTS Executive’s Message

Greetings to all of you. When we started in January 2014 we took on the responsibility of running this temple for 2 years, set ourselves few goals, and were able to achieve most of them under the able leadership of Dr Vaduganathan. We are fortunate to have a great team of board members & volunteers who worked tirelessly to help reach our goals.

We took on the most challenging project in the history of MTS, both logistically and financially. We appreciate every donor& supporter who made this project a reality and the confidence they had in us to execute them well. We are getting into to the crucial stage of the construction where we need the most cooperation from you. We are doing everything in our power to keep the temple open during the construction, but there will some days when the temple will be closed for logistic reasons. Details will be communicated to all of you as we go forward. Sunday, November 29th (Thanks giving weekend), is the Maha Kumbhabhishekam day. On behalf of the entire board, we personally invite each one of you to come with your family and friends to witness & participate in “Sri Padmavathi Noothana Aalaya, Vimana, Maha Kumbhabhishekam”. This will be an eight day event starting on Sunday, November 22nd with various religious and cultural events on a daily basis. Please watch for more details in the coming weeks.

Several initiatives are being taken up by this board to bring the younger generation into the mainstream. Vedic Heritage School (VHS) & Youth committee have done a wonderful job by designing programs that would interest youth. The recent addition of Yoga sessions as part of the VHS module is gaining momentum. Our monthly ‘Golden Group Meeting’ initiative was to keep our senior members more engaged with MTS. Monthly meetings include topics on health, retirement, diet, meditation and more. Another highlight of this initiative was special and creative lunch menus including ‘Kumbakonam Coffee’ to ‘Aappakkadai’, which have been well received by large group of senior members.

On the administrative side, efforts are underway to put in a process which will improve the efficiency around procurement of goods and services. New processes are currently being implemented which are expected to yield better results in the near future.

All in all, serving our temple has been a rewarding experience along with a highly motivated & energetic team. Thank you for your support & giving us the opportunity to serve this great institution.

Srikanth Venugopalan, MTS – Secretary Sri Meenakshi Temple Society

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October 2015

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SRI MEENAKSHI TEMPLE SOCIETY 17130 McLean Road, Pearland, TX-77584

October 2015

0ct-01 Thu 7.00 PM Subramaniya Abhishekam 0ct-03 Sat 10.30 AM Venkateswara Abhishekam 0ct-04 Sun 10.30 AM 1st Sunday-Venkateswara Abhishekam 0ct-05 Mon 7.00 PM Bairavar Abhishekam, Siva Abhishekam 0ct-06 Tue 7.00 PM Punarvasu Rama Abhishekam 0ct-08 Thu 7:00 PM Venkateswara Abhishekam 0ct-10 Sat 10.30 AM Venkateswara Abhishekam 0ct-10 Sat 7:00 PM Pradosham Nandi & Siva abhishekam Procession after Deeparadana 0ct-11 Sun 11.00 AM Meenakshi Abhishekam 0ct-12 Mon 7.00 PM Mahalaya Amavasya, Siva Abhishekam 0ct-13 Tue 6.00 PM Navarathri 1st day 0ct-14 Wed 6.00 PM Navarathri 2nd day 0ct-15 Thu 6.00 PM Navarathri 3rd day 0ct-16 Fri 6.00 PM Navarathri 4th day Suvasini Puja 0ct-17 Sat 10.30 AM Venkateswara Abhishekam 0ct-17 Sat 6.00 PM Navarathri 5th day 0ct-18 Sun 6.00 PM Navarathri 6th day 0ct-19 Mon 6.00 PM Navarathri 7th day, Somavara Siva Abhishekam

Mon 7:00 PM Moolam, Anjaneya Abhishekam, Shashti Subramaniya Abhishekam 0ct-20 Tue 6.00 PM Navarathri8th day, DURGASHTAMI 0ct-21 Wed 6.00 PM Navarathri 9th day, SARASWATHI puja 0ct-22 Thu 6.00 Pm Vijyaya Dashami, Sravanam Venkateswara Abhishekam 0ct-25 Sun 7.00 PM Pradosham, Nandi& Siva abhishekam procession after Deeparadhana 0ct-27 Tue 7:00 PM Pournami, Satyanarana puja, 0ct-27 Tue 7.00 PM Santa Abhishekam, Annaabhishekam 0ct-29 Thu 7:00 PM Krittikai Sri Subramanya Abhishekam 0ct-30 Fri 7.00 PM Sankatahara Chathurthi, Ganesh homam and abhishekam 0ct-31 Sat 09.00 Am Deepavali bazaar

REGULARLY SCHEDULED WEEKLY ABHISHEKAM

Sri Ganesha Homam & Abhishekam......................................................................All days 7:00 AM Sri Siva (Sundareswara) & Sri Meenakshi Abhishekam.........................................All days 9:00 AM Sri Siva (Sundareswara) Abhishekam..................................................................Mondays 7:00 PM Sri Durga Abhishekam.........................................................................................Tuesdays 7:00 PM Sri Padmavathy Abhishekam...................................................................................Fridays 6:30 PM Sri Meenakshi Abhishekam & Lalitha Sahasranamavali.........................................Fridays 7:00 PM

Last Friday of the month – Lalitha Sahasranamavali & Shodasa Upacharam Sri Navagraha Abhishekam..............................................................................Saturdays 11:00 AM Sri Ayyappa Abhishekam..................................................................................Saturdays 10:00 AM Sri Kanyaka Parameswari Abhishekam.......................................Last Sunday of the Month 7:00 PM Sri Meenakshi Abhishekam...............................................Second Sunday of the Month 11:00 AM Sri Venkateswara Abhishekam...............................................First Sunday of the Month 10:30 AM

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October 2015

0ct-01 Thu 7.00 PM Subramaniya Abhishekam 0ct-03 Sat 10.30 AM Venkateswara Abhishekam 0ct-04 Sun 10.30 AM 1st Sunday-Venkateswara Abhishekam 0ct-05 Mon 7.00 PM Bairavar Abhishekam, Siva Abhishekam 0ct-06 Tue 7.00 PM Punarvasu Rama Abhishekam 0ct-08 Thu 7:00 PM Venkateswara Abhishekam 0ct-10 Sat 10.30 AM Venkateswara Abhishekam 0ct-10 Sat 7:00 PM Pradosham Nandi & Siva abhishekam Procession after Deeparadana 0ct-11 Sun 11.00 AM Meenakshi Abhishekam 0ct-12 Mon 7.00 PM Mahalaya Amavasya, Siva Abhishekam 0ct-13 Tue 6.00 PM Navarathri 1st day 0ct-14 Wed 6.00 PM Navarathri 2nd day 0ct-15 Thu 6.00 PM Navarathri 3rd day 0ct-16 Fri 6.00 PM Navarathri 4th day Suvasini Puja 0ct-17 Sat 10.30 AM Venkateswara Abhishekam 0ct-17 Sat 6.00 PM Navarathri 5th day 0ct-18 Sun 6.00 PM Navarathri 6th day 0ct-19 Mon 6.00 PM Navarathri 7th day, Somavara Siva Abhishekam

Mon 7:00 PM Moolam, Anjaneya Abhishekam, Shashti Subramaniya Abhishekam 0ct-20 Tue 6.00 PM Navarathri8th day, DURGASHTAMI 0ct-21 Wed 6.00 PM Navarathri 9th day, SARASWATHI puja 0ct-22 Thu 6.00 Pm Vijyaya Dashami, Sravanam Venkateswara Abhishekam 0ct-25 Sun 7.00 PM Pradosham, Nandi& Siva abhishekam procession after Deeparadhana 0ct-27 Tue 7:00 PM Pournami, Satyanarana puja, 0ct-27 Tue 7.00 PM Santa Abhishekam, Annaabhishekam 0ct-29 Thu 7:00 PM Krittikai Sri Subramanya Abhishekam 0ct-30 Fri 7.00 PM Sankatahara Chathurthi, Ganesh homam and abhishekam 0ct-31 Sat 09.00 Am Deepavali bazaar

REGULARLY SCHEDULED WEEKLY ABHISHEKAM

Sri Ganesha Homam & Abhishekam......................................................................All days 7:00 AM Sri Siva (Sundareswara) & Sri Meenakshi Abhishekam.........................................All days 9:00 AM Sri Siva (Sundareswara) Abhishekam..................................................................Mondays 7:00 PM Sri Durga Abhishekam.........................................................................................Tuesdays 7:00 PM Sri Padmavathy Abhishekam...................................................................................Fridays 6:30 PM Sri Meenakshi Abhishekam & Lalitha Sahasranamavali.........................................Fridays 7:00 PM

Last Friday of the month – Lalitha Sahasranamavali & Shodasa Upacharam Sri Navagraha Abhishekam..............................................................................Saturdays 11:00 AM Sri Ayyappa Abhishekam..................................................................................Saturdays 10:00 AM Sri Kanyaka Parameswari Abhishekam.......................................Last Sunday of the Month 7:00 PM Sri Meenakshi Abhishekam...............................................Second Sunday of the Month 11:00 AM Sri Venkateswara Abhishekam...............................................First Sunday of the Month 10:30 AM

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Navarathri celebrations (Oct 13-22) Sri Meenakshi Temple has established the tradition of Navarathri celebrations which includes both religious rituals and cultural events attractive to every visitor. During the nine nights, the Mother Goddess is worshipped as Saraswati - the deity of all learning and arts, Lakshmi - the Goddess of wealth, and Durga - the embodiment of courage and power described in the Hindu scriptures. Navarathri at this temple provides an exclusive occasion to express the love and respect to the Goddess. The spectacular display of Golu (kolu), classical music and dance programs every evening, unique Navavarana Pooja (Sri Vidya Upasana), Suvasini pooja, special displays of diorama based on puranic stories, Aksharabhyasam etc are special attractions during this time.

Deepavali Bazaar (October 31) A day dedicated to celebrate Deepavali at this temple has become popular among Houstonians. The day begins with free health fair as a community service. The temple remains open throughout the day with a flow of several thousand people. Special food booths, bazaar, spectacular fireworks, youth activities, games for children, Raas / garba etc. are attractions.

Skanda Shashti is celebrated during the six days from November 12. This signifies the day on which Lord Subramanya defeated the demon Taraka. On this day elaborate festivals are held with great pomp and grandeur. Devotees organise Bhajan and Kirtan programs on a grand scale. Thousands are fed sumptuously. Many incurable diseases are cured if one visits Palani and worships Lord Subramanya there.

Maha Kumbhabhishekam Celebrations ( November 22-29). Please the details given separately

Maha Sathyanarayana Puja ( December 5) Please see the attached flyer for details

Annual Ayyappa Mandala Puja (for 41 days) is celebrated- Beginning on Nov. 17 that concludes on Dec 26, 2015.

The sannidhi of Sri Ayyappa gets ready on Nov 16 with Sudhi kalasham for this year’s Mandalam season that begins on Tuesday , Nov 17 ( Karthigai /Vruschikam 1). Daily Mandala Pooja will be conducted during the next 41 days.

The months of Kartigai / Vrishchikam, Maargazhi / Dhanur are the most auspicious for Sri Ayyappa ( Sri Dharma Shastha), during which period Mandala Puja is celebrated. Devotees observe traditional austerity (vrutham), which starts from the first day of Kaartigai/ Vrishchikam (November 17). Devotees initiate the vrutham by wearing a Thulasi or a Rudraksha mala. After 41 days (on December 26) the devotees end their vrutham by carrying Irumudi and removing the mala. Irumudi is a cloth bag with two compartments containing offerings for the Lord. This temple guides and facilitates devotees to observe the tradition of Ayyappa vrutham. You may call the temple office for advice from the priest.

Celebrated Events in this quarter (October-December 2015)

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A special Pooja will be organized by the devotees on December 19 to celebrate the occasion. MAKARA SANKRANTHI marks the grand finale of the 2-month period of Sabarimala pilgrimage.

Kaisika Dwadasi Utsavam December 8 is an annual Classical devotional music group rendition in which many musicians take part. This falls on Tuesday, December 8. As a tradition, the event is meticulously planned by several leading musicians in Houston. Dozens of music students and many aspiring musicians look forward to this opportunity to offer their prayers in front of the Sannidhi of Sri Venkateswara.

Kaisika Dwadasi celebrates the notion that Nama Sankeer-thanam of the Lord, sung with perfect shruti and correct pronunciation of lyrics, helps one to attain Salvation. This scripture prescribes devotees to celebrate Kaisika Dwadasi by fasting and Nama Sankeerthanam in Temples. It falls in the month of Karthigai. The 48th chapter in Sri Varaha Puranam is called as the Kaisika Puranam composed in Manipravalam. Kaisika puranam derives its name from Kaisika raga (or today’s Bhairavi of carnatic music) in which it is believed to have been sung. Traditionally, Kaisika purana parayanam is done in the early hours of the Kaiskia Dwadasi day before day break. The significance of Kaisika Dwadasi is given in Kaisika Puranam.

Quoting from Kaisiika Puranam - this is the story told by Sri Varaha Perumal to Bhoodevi – Nampaduvan, an ardent devotee of Sriman Narayana used to perform Nama Sankeerthanam before Emperuman at Thirukurungudi. Once, on the way to Thirukurungudi, Brahma Raakshasa (who was a yagna-charya in his previous birth) confronted Nampaduvan. The Brahma Raakshasa warned Nampaduvan that he was going to be eaten. But Nampaduvan humbly requested to allow him to finish his duty on Kaisika paravam Dwadasi day of Nama Sankeerthanam first, and then he promised him to surrender. Though the Brahma Raakshasa did not agree first, he later let Nampaduvan go. Nampaduvan, after doing Nama Sankeerthanam on the auspicious Kaisika Dwadasi day, came back and surrendered himself to Brahma Raakshasa. Impressed by this honesty the Brahma Raakshasa requested Nampaduvan to give the fruits of his Nama Sankeerthanam to him so that he can get rid of the raakshasa janma and attain salvation. Nampaduvan did not agree to it even after repeated requests. Finally Brahma Raakshasa begged Nampaduvan to give the benefit of just one swara that he sang on Kaisika Dwadasi. Nampaduvan agreed and gave the fruit of just one swara. Because of this, Emperuman told Bhoodevi, the Brahma Raakshasa attained salvation.

Let us welcome Sri S. Balaji, a new addition to the priests at MTS. He holds the professional title Sivagama Siromani following the training at Kanchi Kamakoti Peeta Vyasa, Bharathi Kaladhi Sadas, Samajam at Trichy. Prior to his move to the US, Sri Balaji has served at Sri Mamaswayambhu Sidhi Vinayagr Temple at Gudu-vanchery, as a priest for 15 years. In addition, he has played lead-ing roles in a variety of events such as kumbhabhishekam, Chandi homam, Rudra Ekadashi, Sudarshana homam etc. Sri Balaji is well versed in English and Tamil.

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Sri Meenakshi Temple Society17130 McLean Road, Pearland, TX-77584

Cordially invites you to participate in the

Navarathri CelebrationsOct 13th to Oct 22nd 2015

Daily at 8:30 AM

Abhishekam for Sri Meenakshi Followed by Nava Varna Puja

Daily at 7:00 PM Abhishekam for Sri Meenakshi

Sahasranamavali, Deeparadhana & Prasadam distribution Special Alankaram for Utsavamurthis everyday

Friday, Oct. 16th 6:00 PM

Suvasini Puja Abhishekam and Sahasranama Archana for Sri Meenakshi &

Special Alankarams for Utsavamurthis Followed by Manjal kumkum distribution to ladies

Tuesday, Oct 20th 10:30 AM Durgashtami

Homam & Abhishekam for Sri Durga

Wednesday, Oct 21st 10:00 AM Saraswathi Puja

Thursday, Oct 22nd 7:00 PM Vijaya Dasami

Aksharabhyasam for children at 10.00 am

SponsorshipNavavarna puja $51, Daily Alankaram/puja $101, Suvasini Puja $31

Sponsors of $31 and higher will receive a saree along with manjal kunkum on the Suvasini Puja day.

For more information please contact Sasi Pillai at [email protected] or Narayanan at [email protected] or SriRam at [email protected]

or call the Temple Office at 281-489-0358 Ext.100 or 110

Cordially invites you to participate in the


Navavarna puja $51, Daily Alankaram/puja $101, Suvasini Puja $31Sponsors of $31 and higher will receive a saree along with

manjal kunkum on the Suvasini Puja day.

For more information please contactSasi Pillai at [email protected] or Narayanan at [email protected] or SriRam at

[email protected] or call the Temple Office at 281-489-0358 Ext.100 or 110

mailto:[email protected]



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PRAYERSasidharan Pillai

Prayer is giving an opportunity to God to comfort the devotee. Prayer is depending on God for help in distress. Prayer lightens the heaviness of your heart by opening it to God. Prayer is excepting God to decide what is best for you when you are in dilemma.Prayer is nearness to God. Prayer is not asking, but a communion with God through single-minded devotion. It is tuning of the mind with God. It is fixing the mind on God and meditating on Him. Prayer is surrendering oneself to God Completely, and melting the mind and ego in silence, in God. Prayer represents a mystic state when the individual consciousness is absorbed in God. It is an uplifting of the soul to God, an act of love and adoration to Him. It is worship and glorification of God. It is thanksgiving to God for all His blessings.Prayer is an invocation, a calling forth of spiritual forces ever flowing through the human heart, mind and soul. It is a great spiritual force that is as real as force of gravity or attraction. It is the very soul and essence of religion, the very core of man’s life. No man can live without prayer.Prayer does not demand high intelligence or eloquence. God wants your heart when you pray. Even a word from a humble, pure soul, though illiterate, will appeal to the God more than the eloquent flowing words of an orator or a learned man. The child does not know grammar and pronunciation. It utters some sounds, but the mother understands! When mother under stands the language of the heart, what to say of the inner witness? He/she knows what you wish to say. Even if you make mistakes in your prayer to Him, even if there are mistakes in the mantras you recite, if you are sincere, if the prayer comes from your heart, He listens to it, because He understands the language of your heart.Whose prayer is heard? Prayer should spring from the heart and should not be mere lip-language. Empty prayer is like sounding brass or tinkling cymbal. The God at once hears prayer that comes from a sincere, pure heart. The prayer of a cunning, crooked, wicked man is never heard.God ever respond to the appeal of hiss sincere devotees. It is only the insincere man who says that God is deaf. He is ever watchful of the distress signals of His children. Open your heart to him without reservation and response will be instantaneous. Breath has been given to you, by the God to be spent in prayer. Kneel down and pray, but let it not cease when you rise. Prayer should be life-long; and your life should be one long prayer. There are no problems that cannot be solved by prayer. Kneel down and pray, pray not for earthly goods or for heavenly pleasure, but pray for His grace. Thy will be done. My Lord! I want nothing for myself, this shall be thy prayer. Greet the dawn of the day and bid adieu to the setting sun with a prayer of thankfulness firstly for a fresh day granted, and lastly for His Grace received. Thus shall your life be blessed and thus will you radiate His blessings to all around you.Benefits of Prayer: Prayer is a mighty spiritual force. It is spiritual food for the soul, a spiritual tonic. Prayer is powerful spiritual current. There is nothing so purifying as prayer. If you pray regularly, your life will be gradually changed and molded. Prayer must become habitual, and then you will feel as if you cannot live without it. It lightens the heart and fills the mind with peace, strength and purity. When the mind becomes pure through the power of prayer, the intellect becomes sharp and keen, Prayer elevates the mind. When you think yourself with the inexhaustible cosmic powerhouse of energy, you draw power light and strength from Him. Prayer is a trusty companion along the weary path to liberation> it is the rock to which man can cling when he is drowning in the ocean of births and deaths. It frees from the fear of death and brings him near to God, making feel the divine Con-sciousness and His essential immortal nature. Prayer works wonders and moves mountains. Even when the medical boards pronounces a case hopeless, prayer comes to the rescue, and the patient is miraculously cured. There have been many instances of these descriptions. Healing by prayer is really miraculous and mysterious. Prayer is an unfailing remedy in all situations. True prayer is the mental and verbal expression of the highest spiritual ideal. True prayer is said to be heard by the Supreme Being when we remember our spiritual nature. A true prayer is the expression of that attitude of the human mind, which arouses the divine nature in man and makes it govern the lower, selfish or animal nature by which we are directed in our ordinary life to per-form selfish acts. True prayer is like a ladder by which the individual soul ascends to the domain of transcendental Reality.

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November 2015

1-Nov Sun 10.30 AM 1st Sunday-Venkateswara Abhishekam 2-Nov Mon 7.00 PM Sri. Rama Abhishekam 3-Nov Tue 7.00 PM Bairavar Abhishekam 7-Nov Sat 10.30 AM Ekadasi, Venkateswara Abhishekam 8-Nov Sun 11.00 AM Meenakshi Abhishekam 9-Nov Mon 7.00 PM Pradosham, Nandi& Siva abhishekam procession after Deeparadhana

10-Nov Tue 7.00 PM Deepavali Katchi, Lakshmi Abhishekam 12-Nov Thu 7.00 PM Skanda Sashti begins, Subramaniya Abhishekam 13-Nov 14-Nov

Fri Sat

7:00 PM 10.00 AM

Skanta sashti 2nd day Skanda Sashti 3d day

15-Nov Sun 10.00 AM Skand Sashti 4th day, Moolam Anjaneya abhisheakm 16-Nov Mon 7.00 PM Skanda sashti 5th day, Ayyappa Sudhi Abhishekam 17-Nov Tue 7:00 PM Skanda Sashti 6th day, Skanda Homam andSubramaniya Abhishekam 17-Nov Tue 7.00 PM Ayyappa Mandala Puja begins, Ayyappa Abhishekam 18-Nov Wed 7.00 PM Sravanam, Venkateswara Abhishekam 22-Nov Sun 8:30AM

10.30 AM Main Temple Kumbhabhisekam Ganapathi Homam Ekadasi, Venkateswara Abhishekam, Subramaniya abhishekam

23-Nov Mon 10:00 AM / 6:30PM 7.00 PM

Navagraha Homam, Rakshogna Homam Pradosham, Nandi& Siva abhishekam procession after Deeparadhana

24-Nov Tue 10:00 AM 6:30PM

Sudarsana Homam Lakshmi Homam

25-Nov Wed 10:00 AM 6:30PM 7.00 PM

Disa Homam Vastu Shanthi Deepa Utsavam

26-Nov Thu 10:00AM 6:30PM

Mrutsamgrahanam & Yagasala Nirmana Malangaram 1st Kala Yagasala Pooja Homam

27-Nov Fri 9:00AM 6:00PM

Visesha Sandhi & KalaYagasala Pooja Homam Visha Sandhi 3rd Kala Yagasala Pooja Homam

28-Nov Sat 9:00AM 5:30PM

Visehasandhi 4th Kala Yagasala Pooja Homam Visehasandhi 5th Kala Yagasala Pooja Homam

29-Nov Sun 10.00 AM Punarvasu, Ramar Abhishekam 29-Nov Sun 5:30AM

10:00 AM 7.00 PM

6th Kala Yagasala Pooja Homam Main Temple Maha Kumbhabishekam Sankatahara Chathurthi, Ganesh homam and abhishekam

30-Nov Mon 7.00 PM 2nd Karthigai Soma varam REGULARLY SCHEDULED WEEKLY ABHISHEKAM

Sri Ganesha Homam & Abhishekam......................................................................All days 7:00 AM Sri Siva (Sundareswara) & Sri Meenakshi Abhishekam.........................................All days 9:00 AM Sri Siva (Sundareswara) Abhishekam..................................................................Mondays 7:00 PM Sri Durga Abhishekam.........................................................................................Tuesdays 7:00 PM Sri Padmavathi Abhishekam...................................................................................Fridays 6:30 PM Sri Meenakshi Abhishekam & Lalitha Sahasranamavali.........................................Fridays 7:00 PM

Last Friday of the month – Lalitha Sahasranamavali & Shodasa Upacharam Sri Navagraha Abhishekam..............................................................................Saturdays 11:00 AM Sri Ayyappa Abhishekam..................................................................................Saturdays 10:00 AM

Sri Kanyaka Parameswari Abhishekam.......................................Last Sunday of the Month 10:00 AM Sri Meenakshi Abhishekam...............................................Second Sunday of the Month 11:00 AM Sri Venkateswara Abhishekam...............................................First Sunday of the Month 10:30 AM

November 2015

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INVITES YOU AND YOUR FAMILY TO PARTICIPATE IN THE

DEEPAVALI KATCHI AND LAKSHMI POOJA

Tuesday, November 10, 2015Lakshmi Pooja 7:00 PMDeepavali Katchi 8:00 PM

UTSAVAMURTHY ALANKARAM AND NEW VASTRAM OFFERING TO THE DEITIES

BY THE TRUSTEE AND DEVOTEES

For further Details, please contactSasidharan Pillai at [email protected], S.Narayanan at [email protected], or

Sri ram at [email protected]

UTSAVAMURTHY ALANKARAM AND NEW VASTRAM OFFERING TO THE DEITIES

BY THE TRUSTEE AND DEVOTEES

For further Details, please contactSasidharan Pillai at [email protected],

S.Narayanan at [email protected], orSri ram at [email protected]


INVITESYOU AND YOUR FAMILY TO PARTICIPATE IN THE

DEEPAVALI KATCHI AND LAKSHMI POOJA

mailto:[email protected], S.Narayanan

mailto:[email protected], S.Narayanan

mailto:[email protected],


12


Skanda Shasti UtsavamNov 12th to 17th

Daily Abhishekam, Alankaram and Sahasranama Archana for Murugan

Thursday , Nov 12th - 7pm

Friday, Nov 13th – 7pm

Saturday , Nov 14th – 10:30am

Sunday , Nov 15th – 10:30am

Monday, Nov 16th – 7pm

Tuesday Nov 17th 6pm

Skanda homam, Sankalapam, Vigneswara puja, Punnyavachanam, Kalasa puja, Homam, Pooranahudhi

Abhishekam, Alankaram, Deeparadhana

Procession of Utsava Murthis around the temple in Mayil Vahanam

Prasadam distribution after PujaSponsorship: $ 21

For more information please contact S.Narayanan at [email protected] or

Dr.Dorairaja at [email protected] or Senthil Devaraj at [email protected]

12


Skanda Shasti UtsavamNov 12th to 17th

Daily Abhishekam, Alankaram and Sahasranama Archana for Murugan

Thursday , Nov 12th - 7pm

Friday, Nov 13th – 7pm

Saturday , Nov 14th – 10:30am

Sunday , Nov 15th – 10:30am

Monday, Nov 16th – 7pm

Tuesday Nov 17th 6pm

Skanda homam, Sankalapam, Vigneswara puja, Punnyavachanam, Kalasa puja, Homam, Pooranahudhi

Abhishekam, Alankaram, Deeparadhana

Procession of Utsava Murthis around the temple in Mayil Vahanam

Prasadam distribution after Puja

Sponsorship: $ 21

For more information please contactS.Narayanan at [email protected] or Dr.Dorairaja at [email protected] or

Senthil Devaraj at [email protected]




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The months of Kaartika/Vrishcika, Maargazhi/Dhanur are most auspicious for Lord Ayyappa,during which period Mandala Pooja is celebrated. Devotees observe traditional austerities (Vridham), which normally start from the first day of Kaartika / Vrishcikam (November 16). Devotees initiate vridham by wearing a Thulasi or a Rudraksha maala. After 41 days ( on December 27th) the devotees end their vridham by carrying Irumudi and removing the maala. Kids can observe vridham similar to adults but for shorter period.

For more information please contactGanesh @ [email protected], Senthil @ [email protected], Narayanan @ [email protected]

Temple office phone numbers: 281-489-0358 Ext: 100 or 101 or Visit www.meenakshi.org

16

The time-honored Vedic practice of performing homam (havan) integral to Hindu religious functions is a familiar scene to most devotees of this Temple. This brief review may be informative in understanding and to appreciate the basis of this tradition. Since homam centers around Fire (Agni, अग्नि), an analysis of the role of Agni in this ritual is made here.

Vedic texts starting from Rig Veda frequently refers Agni as a deity who is honored with a status of Purohitha, a spiritual advisor, the foremost Leader and who advocates righteousness and the one who sustains all that is pleasant. In Rig Veda there exist many hymns addressed to him as the glorious Illuminator (Supreme Principle), the God of fire (energy) and the acceptor of sacrifices who conveys them (as a messenger) to other deities. Agni is thus the primary recipient of all Vedic sacrifices.

As the most potent and visible form of energy, useful but destructive at the same time, Agni was both feared and revered by the Vedic people. Many sects of ardent Hindus continue to venerate as well as fear Agni similar to the level of Siva. Their tradition is based on the belief that Rudra (Siva) is embodied in various forms of nature (earth, water, fire, air, space, the sun, the moon, and the life’s forces). Among these, Agni is especially identified with fire and in this form He pervades the three dimensions of the universe: “earth (bhuh), sky (bhuvah), and heaven (svaha)”. Fire itself is the earthly manifestation of Rudra; in the sky, fire flashes as lightning and howls as wind; in the heavens, fire shines as the sun. Each is a manifestation of Rudra.

Analysis of a few key mantras chanted during homam reveals the prime role of Agni in Vedic rituals. All the offerings in the Vedic sacrifices are invariably offered to Agni (being the oblation-bearer) and through Him to the desired deity. Agni is also believed to have the authority to invite the desired deities and persuade them to sit with Him near the Vedic sacrifice.

From the opening mantras chanted while igniting the fire, one can assume the basic format and the traditional guidelines embedded in the mantras to perform the homam. Inviting Agni to the sanctified Homa Kunda (the hearth specifically dedicated for the homam) is formally done with high respect according to the tradition to awaken the fire. The mantra addressed to the Homa Kunda basically says “I place this Fire who consumes the oblations that will be offered—so that all who are sustained by food can live happily” (Note: It is the nature of fire not only to accept the food offered into it but also to carry that food, literally and ritually, to all the forces of creation that derive nourishment from it and thus, fire is described as the mouth (of all creation). This opening mantra reminds us that the place where the havan is to be performed is sacred.

Another mantra that follows is:

Agni, the Herald of Divine FunctionsChittoor Ramachandran

17

“OM, udbudhyasvagne prati jagrihi tvamishtapurte samsrijethamayam cha, asmin sadhasthe adhyuttarasmin vishve deva yajamanascha sidata “.

“O Fire, please wake up, please get up. And in your arising, wake us up as well. You are the one who gives us what we ask for, as well as what comes to us unasked. You are the remover of illness. In this place (temple where the homam is performed), please be seated. Along with you, may all the compassionate divine forces be seated. May those doing this practice also be seated.

This mantra invites Agni to the homa kunda and requests Him to graciously awaken. It is also a request to awaken those seated around fire subtly reminding them that once the ceremony begins, they must remain seated so that the ritual may be completed without interruption.

Another mantra (as follows) that is recited directly addressed to Agni during the homam affirms His status as a deity. In this, Agni is addressed by the name: Jatavedas, literally, the one who has the knowledge (Veda) of every species (jata).

OM, ayam ta idhma atma jatavedastenedhyasva var-dhasva cheddha vardhaya chasman prajaya pashubhir brahmavarchasena annadyena samedhaya svaha.

O Agni, the knower of all who take birth, this stick is your food. With it, may you grow and expand, and similarly, may you help us grow and prosper. Ignite our consciousness. May all who are related to us and may all other beings of this universe also grow and be nourished. May our spiritual wisdom mature. May everyone and everything, directly or indirectly, be inspired and awakened? May they grow along with you and along with those who are serving you.

In the first shloka of Rigveda: “Agnimeele purohitham yajnasya devam-rithwijam hotaram rathnadhathamam “Agni is addressed as Jadavedas as a purohitha and a director orchestrating activities.

On material level, heat (fire) represents Agni, which is primarily responsible for rain, food and all the richness. In Rig Veda, most prayers are addressed to Agni (eg.”Oh Agni, lead us on the right path of prosperity (Rig Veda 1.3.28) . This also suggests that the Agni mentioned in this hymn should be interpreted as a leader, under whose direction everything happens. Similarly, the highly respected Sri Suktam is addressed to Jatavedas to invite Sri Lakshmi to the devotee’s home and to request her for the prosperity of mankind.

REF: (1) Sri Devasthanam website of Sanskrit Religious Institute, He: Fire Ritual: Havan/Homa

(2) Jayaram, V. Agni, The Vedic Fire God of Hinduism, Hindu Website.com

(3) Significance of Sri Sukta: Dr. Yadunath (1999) SVYM Enterprise, Orem.

18

December 2015


17


DECEMBER 2015

3-Dec Thu 7.00 PM Ashtami, Bairavar Abhishekam

5-Dec Sat 7.00 PM Satyanaranayan puja

6-Dec Sun 10.30 AM 1st Sunday-Venkateswara Abhishekam

7-Dec Mon 7.00 PM Ekadesi, Venkateswara Abhishekam

8-Dec Tue 7.00 PM SRI KAISIKA DWADASI FESTIVAL

12-Dec Sat 10.00 AM Moolam, Anjaneya Abhishekam

13-Dec Sun 11.00 AM Meenakshi Abhishekam

14-Dec Mon 7.00 PM 4th Somavara Abhishekam for Siva

15-Dec Tue 10.30 AM Sravanam, Venkateswara Abhishekam, Maha Ganapathy Abhishekam

16-Dec Wed 7.00 PM Subramaniya Abhishekam

17-Dec Thu 06.00 AM Dhanur masa Puja Begins

21-Dec Mon 7.00 PM VAIKUNDA EKADESI, VENKATESWARA ABHISHEKAM

22-Dec Tue 7.00 PM Subramaniya Abhishekam

23-Dec Wed 7.00 PM Pradosham, Nandi & Siva abhishekam procession after Deeparadhana

25-Dec Fri 7.00 PM Satyanaranaya puja

26-Dec Sat 09.00AM Ayyappa mandala puja, Ghee Abhishekam

27-Dec Sun 09.00 AM Ayyappa mandala puja Completion, Pushpa Abhishekam

28-Dec Mon 7.00 PM Sankatahara Chathurthi, Ganesh homam and abhishekam

31-Dec Thu 00.01 AM New Year Eve puja

REGULARLY SCHEDULED WEEKLY ABHISHEKAMSri Ganesha Homam & Abhishekam...................................................................All days 7:00 AM Sri Siva (Sundareswara) & Sri Meenakshi Abhishekam.....................................All days 9:00 AM

Sri Siva (Sundareswara) Abhishekam................................................................Mondays 7:00 PM Sri Durga Abhishekam.......................................................................................Tuesdays 7:00 PM Sri Padmavathy Abhishekam................................................................................Fridays 6:30 PM Sri Meenakshi Abhishekam & Lalitha Sahasranamavali......................................Fridays 7:00 PM

Last Friday of the month – Lalitha Sahasranamavali & Shodasa Upacharam Sri Navagraha Abhishekam............................................................................Saturdays 11:00 AM Sri Ayyappa Abhishekam...............................................................................Saturdays 10:00 AM Sri Kanyaka Parameswari Abhishekam.....................................Last Friday of the Month 7:00 PM Sri Meenakshi Abhishekam.............................................Second Sunday of the Month 11:00 AM Sri Venkateswara Abhishekam............................................First Sunday of the Month 10:30 AM

Puja sponsorships can be prepaid using your credit card at www.emeenakshi.org

19


Invites you to participate in the

18



Maha Sathyanarayana Puja

On Saturday, Dec 5, 2015Venue: MTS Kalyana Mandapam

Time: 10 AM - 12.30 PM First part: Puja for Lord Ganesha, Navagrahas, Ashtadik-Palakas & Panchaloka-Palakas

Second part: Worshipping Sri Sathyanarayana Swamy Third Part: Reading and Listening to Sri Sathyanarayana Swamy Story

Fourth Part: Arathi Fifth part: Prasadam distribution

Complimentary lunch will be served after the Puja Sponsorship - $51

Flowers, fruits & prasadams welcomeAnnadhanam contributions welcome

For more information please contactSriram at [email protected] or Sasi Pillai at [email protected] or

Narayanan at [email protected] orcall the Temple Office at (281) 489-0358 Ext. 100 or110.

20

19



Sri Kaisika Dwadasi Festival On Tuesday, December 8th 2015

SINGING THE GLORY OF LORD VISHNU

Program

At the Main temple 7pm- 8pm

Pooja Sponsorship - $21Please bring Fruits, Flowers and Prasadam for the Pooja

As traditionally celebrated, devotees will assemble to sing together glories of Sriman Narayana. All are welcome to join. The list of songs will be provided to the

devotees ahead of the event in a recorded form for individual practice

For more information please contact S. Narayanan at [email protected] or

Mahesh Iyer at [email protected] orTupil Narasiman at [email protected]


Please bring Fruits, Flowers and Prasadam for the Pooja

As traditionally celebrated, devotees will assemble to sing together glories of

Sriman Narayana. All are welcome to join.The list of songs will be provided to the devotees ahead of the event

in a recorded form for individual practice

For more information please contact: S. Narayanan at [email protected] or

Mahesh Iyer at [email protected] orTupil Narasiman at [email protected]



21

20


Invites you to celebrate

VAIKUNTA EKADESIAnd Swarga Vasal Darshnam

onMonday December 21, 2015

Program

At the Main temple

6:00amThiruppalliEzhuchi7:00 am--8.00 am Nithya Aradhanam &Thiruppavaisevakalam

9:00 am -Venkateswara Abhishekam10:30 am-VaikuntaDwaraDarashanam and PrakaraUtsavamOn GarudaVahanam

11:00 am GadhyaThrayam,-Aarthi, Shaathumurai,Theertham, Prasadam12 noon- Vishnu Sahsranamam Chanting – Open participation

SPONSORSHIP$51.00

For more information please contact Narayanan at [email protected] or Sasi at [email protected]

or Sriram at [email protected] Or call the Temple Office at (281) 489-0358 Ext. 100 or101

Program

At the Main temple

6:00amThiruppalliEzhuchi

7:00 am--8.00 am - Nithya Aradhanam &Thiruppavaisevakalam

9:00 am - Venkateswara Abhishekam

10:30 am - VaikuntaDwaraDarashanam and PrakaraUtsavamOn GarudaVahanam

11:00 am- GadhyaThrayam, Aarthi, Shaathumurai,Theertham, Prasadam

12 noon - Vishnu Sahsranamam Chanting – Open participation

SPONSORSHIP$51.00

For more information please contact Narayanan at [email protected] or Sasi at [email protected]

or Sriram at [email protected] Or call the Temple Office at (281) 489-0358 Ext. 100 or101



22


invites you to Celebrate

New Year’s Day On Friday January 1st, 2016

Start your New Year with the blessings of Sri Meenakshi, Sri Sundareswara, Sri Venkateswara and Sri Padmavathi

on December 31st, 2015 – New Year’s Eve - Midnight AarathiProgram

January 01, Friday 20169:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Ganesha Homam and Abhishekam for Prasanna Vinayagar at the Ganesh TempleSponsorship $51

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Starting at 9:00 AMSpecial Archanas will be performed every half-hour for all Deities at the Main Temple

and every hour for Deities in all the Corner Sannidhis.Sponsorship $21

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

10:00 AM: Puja for Maha Ganapathi & Sri Ayyappa.Sponsorship $21

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

11:00 AM - 1:00 PMLaksharchana for Sri Meenakshi & Muthangi Seva for all Pradhana Murthis

Deeparadhana followed by Meenakshi Prakara Utsavam on Pallakku.

Sponsorship $51 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

5:00 PM – 6:00 PMSpecial Puja for Sri Durga, Sri Jyothi & Sri Kanyaka Parameswari.

6:00 PM Prakara Utsavam for Sri Venkateshwara on Pallakku6:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Special Puja for Sri Rama, Sri Subramanya & Sri Radhakrishna.Sponsorship $21

Grand Sponsorship for all New Year Day Poojas $1019:00 PM: Ardha Jama Pooja followed by Sayanalaya Pooja

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1:30 PM - 5:00 PM. Cultural Program at Kalyana Mantapam-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Breakfast will be available at Temple Kitchen between 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Food will be available from Local Indian Restaurants at the Food Boothfrom 10:00 AM – 8:00PM

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

To volunteer for the New Year’s day, Please contact:Murali Ravoori ([email protected]) (or)

call the temple office at 281-489-0358 extn 100, 110


23

Introduction: In the Holy grounds of Hindu Temples Miracles appear as natural events. People seldom consider them as super-natural but as the great gift of the powers of the Supreme. Several Temples are known for these occurrences.Many of us have a question in our mind that if there is only one Paramathma in all the manifestations that they pray in several temples in various forms, if they are all one and the same. Here, the Hindu recognizes well that each one of the image and form has the individuality and separate form along with the Supreme Paramathma. Such miracles they see again establish that each and every one of the manifestations is real and true.In the prior issue we covered two of the Miracles experienced at Sri Meenakshi Temple. This issue continues the series with more Miracles shared by our devotees.

Miracle #6: Miracle from Sri Subrahmanya in our Temple.[Kandha Sashti in 1986 and Subrahmanya Homam]As already noted earlier, during the Kumbhabishekam pooja time in June/July 1982, heavy thunderstorm and heavy winds disturbed some of the events. The day of special Pooja and homam for Sri Subrahmanya had to be cancelled as the tent col-lapsed earlier and area was flooded with the rain water. However, the Vigrahas of Sri Subramanya came only 2 years later in 1964 for installation in the Siva Sannadhi area with simple installation ceremony. In 1986, one devotee family during their trip to India bought one Silver “Vel” – Spear for Sri Subrahmanya. During customs check-ups and opening and closing of the luggage in Hong-Kong airport, the spear got damaged with a crack at the “neck”. He got it fixed in a Jewelry store locally, who did it free of cost. When it was brought to the temple for a simple Pooja offering in July, again it was noted that the spear was bent. The chief priest suggested that once we fix it better, we can install the same at the time of Skandha Sashti that year. The Jeweler again fixed it with a thick silver ring. A simple announcement was issued in Temple times that we will perform the Shanda Homam and services [that was missed in 1982]. On Skandha Sashti day, the temple saw the biggest crowd of devotees since the Kumbhabhishekam day. There were devotees from many neighboring cities like Dallas, Austin and San Antonio with Special tour buses trip. Everyone was excited to see such a grand celebrations that Sri Subrahmanya arranged for Himself that was missed in 1982.

Miracle #7: Miracle shown by Sri Sundareswara – Siva in our Temple.[Kamakshi Sundareswara Gurukkal coming from Singapore in 1987] Sri Rajarathna Bhattar, who was the only priest at our temple since 1983, one year after Kumbhabhishekam, had to return to India on completion of his 3 year Visa. We had temporary help with some local volunteersAnd later a temporary priest came from Canada for 4 weeks. We had applied for permanent visa on a Clergy category for Thanga Bhattar. This took a brief delay in processing. In June of 1987, there was a period when we had acute shortage to perform daily Pooja, except few local volunteer devotees who usually came once in

Miracles that are Natural atSri Meenakshi Temple of Pearland (3rd in Series)

- Dr. Bala N. Aiyer

24

the morning time. We were short of funds also to correct the situation. It was the third week in June, when, I went to temple in evening from Hundi money counting work and Sri Arumugam was the administrator at that time. Sri Arumugam, who is well trained in Saiva Siddhantha Hindu traditions, expressed to me his worry that it was Pradhosham day and Sri Siva needs to get an abhishekam and alankaram at sunset time and we have no priest. He asked me if I could do the abhishekam and alanakar. I told him that since I am coming direct from hospital after the day’s work I did not feel it proper to enter the sanctum. I encouraged him to do the abhishekam and Pooja since he is qualified and trained in the same. He was very reluctant but did his Prayer services. As he lighted the camphor for Aarathi, he telephone bell rang. I commented that “Looks like Sri Siva has agreed and accepted your prayers”. He gave the Arathi plate to me and picked up the phone. The call was from a Temple in Singapore where the Chairman of that temple told he is sending a prient to serve in our temple for the Kumbhabhishekam anniversary poojas and his name was Sri Kamakshi Sundareswara Gurukkal. We told them that we do not have enough funds to get him from Singapore and send him back in two weeks. They said that, not to worry, they will be sending him at their cost and we only need to send someone to pick him at the airport. The Gurukkal spoke only Tamil and got stranded in airports but somehow reached Houston one day late. He came at his cost and returned after doing the anniversary celebrations. On the day he returned, Sri Thanga Bhattar arrived from Chennai, India. This is a miracle of Sri Sundareswara – Siva in our Temple.

MTS Membership

Any devotees interested in membership in Sri Meenakshi Temple Society, may request a membership form and information at the Temple office. The application requires name, address etc. and signatures of persons already members of MTS and donation of membership dues. Membership year starts in January; however, new members are accepted throughout the year.

Members must complete an application form and pay dues annually, specifically stating that the donation is for membership dues. Membership gives one the opportunity to participate in the formation of MTS Policy. Membership is not required to participate in any religious, educational and cultural activities or in voluntary services to the Temple.

Dear Active / Inactive member:

On behalf of the Meenakshi Temple Society (“MTS”) Membership Committee, I extend our warmest fall season’s greetings to you and wish you and your family a very happy and prosperous new year.

We will be sending your membership renewal form in the mail by the end of November. If you are an active / inactive member and not received the membership renewal form by Christmas, please contact the temple and renew your membership by paying the membership dues on or before March 31, 2016 to be eligible to participate in all the General Body meetings. You can also renew the membership before June 30th to be eligible for participating in the General Body meetings during the latter part of the year and/or become a new member on January 1, 2016 at the temple. There will be a separate registration table for membership on that day.

Regards – K. MuthuswamyMembership Committee Coordinator (2014-2015)

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Sri Meenakshi Temple Society17130 McLean Road, Pearland, TX 77584Phone: 281-489-0358 Ext. 100 (or) 110

ANNuAl PujA SPoNSorShiP Form

For more information please contact the Temple Office at 281-489-0358 ext. 100, 110If you have any questions, comments or need more information please do not hesitate to contact

S. Narayanan @ [email protected] Sriram at [email protected] or Sasidharan Pillai @ [email protected]




26

Kalyana Mandapam (KM), Youth Center (YC) and Visitors Center (VC) at MTS

Both KM and YC are spacious facilities for events like Engagements, Weddings, Receptions, etc.

Each facility can accommodate more than 400 people VC can accommodate up to 125 people for small events Have over 1200 chairs, 50 round tables, and more than 30

rectangular (6’ x 2’) tables Use the MTS facilities (KM, YC and the newly opened Visitor

Center) for all of your needs throughout the year Recommend to your friends and colleagues about the facilities

and support our Temple

For Reservations Contact: Mr. Venkatachalam at 832-725-1805 or [email protected]

Alternatively: Send e-mail to [email protected] or [email protected] (Karunakar Chowdavarapu) and we will get back to you within 24 hours

Kalayana Mandapam Youth Center Banquet Hall

Temple HoursMonday through Thursday:

8:30 AM to 12 Noon and 5:00 PM to 8:30 PMFriday:

8:30 AM to 12 Noon and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PMWeekends and National Holidays:

8:30 AM to 8:30 PM

Sri Meenakshi Temple Telephone NumbersMAIN TEMPLE .................................. 281-489-0358

(Best time to call: 9 am-12 noon and 5 pm-8 pmMain Temple ................................................................ 100, 110Ganesh Temple Facility Center ............................................. 115Library (During Library hours) .............................................. 125Kalyana Mantapam .............................................................. 112Temple Kitchen .................................................................... 227MTS FAX ............................................................... 281-489-3540

STAFFSri Vatsa Kumar (Executive Officer) ...................... 832-689-6448Sri K. Venkatachalam (Administrator) .................. 832-725-1805Sri Manickasundaram Bhattar (Priest) .................. 281-489-8633Sri Kalyana Sundaram (Priest) .............................. 281-692-9815Sri R.K.E. Parameswaran (Priest) .......................... 281-489-0575Sri Sreedharan Raghavan (Priest) ......................... 713-518-1810Sri Pawankumar Sribhashyam (Priest) .................. 281-819-7842Sri Sriman Narayana Charyalu Rompicherla (Priest)281-965-9780

www.emeenakshi.orgTemple Times Published by MTS Public Relations and Publicity Committee

RAHUKALAM DAY YAMAGANDAM 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM Sun 12 NOON – 1:30 PM 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM Mon 10:30 AM – 12 NOON 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM Tue 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM 12 NOON – 1:30 PM Wed 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM Thu 6:00 AM – 7:30 AM 10:30 AM – 12 NOON Fri 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM Sat 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM

Cover Photo: courtesy Srinivasan Sundararajan

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