New Series of SRF Online How-to-Live Classes for Children and Teens
“Building Joy-Filled Spiritual Friendships”
The first session of ongoing live, interactive classes conducted via Zoom has begun and extends into the spring (see details about class schedule and structure below).
Registration is ongoing for this series of classes.You can register a child or teen below.
Creating a Spiritual Foundation for All Ages
Paramahansa Yogananda felt deeply for the welfare of youth and took a lifelong interest in their all-around education. Building on the rich, in-person offerings developed for SRF Youth Programs over many decades, SRF online How-to-Live programs teach young people how to lay a spiritual foundation for their lives, one that becomes a sustaining positive influence long after the series of classes.
Curriculum
Children and teens will join in the practice of the SRF Energization Exercises and meditation, and engage in discussions, storytelling, and other activities that illustrate Paramahansaji’s wisdom for building strengths, facing challenges, and approaching life with the abundant joy and self-confidence that come from spiritual understanding and experiencing “how-to-live” education.
The classes are designed to:
- Promote peer interaction and student support, similar to in-person gatherings, through small classes (organized with separate classes for boys and girls);
- Help introduce your child or teen to Paramahansa Yogananda’s inspiring “how-to-live” principles, using age-appropriate approaches (see age ranges below);
- Provide an immersive experience in an online learning environment that encourages uplifting fellowship; and
- Establish spiritually grounding friendships and a sense of inner peace and security.
Schedule
Classes are on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month through May 27, 2023.
Classes are only being taught in English, but there are currently three class times to choose from to accommodate those living in various time zones.
Children: 9 – 12 years
- 9:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., or 5:00 p.m. (PT)
- Class duration: 60 minutes
Teens: 13 – 14 years
- 9:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., or 5:00 p.m. (PT)
- Class duration: 60 minutes
Teens: 15 – 17 years
- 9:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., or 5:00 p.m. (PT)
- Class duration: 60 minutes
Teachers
Many of the teachers have served as long-time SRF Sunday school teachers, and a number of them work professionally as teachers. All teachers and teaching assistants have completed extensive training in age-appropriate instruction, online classroom management, and youth protection.
To help make this program so widely accessible, the classes are currently being offered free of charge.
We understand that there may be occasional unavoidable absences, but sincerely hope that your child or teen can regularly attend the classes. Interest in this program is high, and we want to ensure there is adequate space for all children and teens who want to attend. Out of respect for those who may be on a waiting list for this program, if you find that your child or teen will be unable to regularly attend classes, please contact us so we can make the space available for another family.
If you have any questions, please email helpdesk@yogananda-srf.org or call 760-421-5151.
We hope that these new online classes will help children and teens set their feet on the path of spiritual development, leading to truly satisfying inner and outer lives. May God bless you and your family!
In divine friendship,
Self-Realization Fellowship
Youth Services
P.S. If you would like to make a donation in support of the online How-to-Live classes for youth and SRF, please go to: DonateSRF.org/Youth. Thank you!
Journey to Lake Shrine Video Series
We are happy to present an online experience especially for youth: “Journey to Lake Shrine.” This five-part video series was created by SRF’s Youth Services Department in light of our in-person youth programs currently being on hold due to the pandemic, and as a way to connect youth around the world in an ever-greater bond of joyful spirituality and supportive fellowship.
Each of the five episodes in the “Journey to Lake Shrine” series is structured as a day of learning and fun, similar to a day at an in-person youth program.
Though created especially for youth, this special video series can be enjoyed by all ages. Look for further installments in upcoming weeks!
“Journey to Lake Shrine” includes:
- stories about Paramahansa Yogananda and the Lake Shrine's early days
- information about Lake Shrine’s wildlife, unique buildings, and special features
- short guided meditations led by monastics and affirmation practices to help youth easily and effectively apply “how-to-live” principles.
Journey to Lake Shrine: Part 1
Journey to Lake Shrine: Part 2
Journey to Lake Shrine: Part 3
Journey to Lake Shrine: Part 4
Journey to Lake Shrine: Part 5
