That's great to hear that you want to connect with ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness)! ISKCON is a global spiritual organization that follows the teachings of Lord Krishna and promotes the practice of bhakti yoga. To connect with ISKCON, here are some steps you can follow:
Locate the nearest ISKCON center: Find the nearest ISKCON center or temple in your area. You can do this by searching online or checking ISKCON's official website for a list of centers worldwide.
Attend temple programs: Visit the ISKCON temple regularly and participate in their programs, such as morning and evening prayers, kirtans (devotional singing), lectures, and festivals. This will help you become familiar with their practices and teachings.
Meet devotees and leaders: Take the opportunity to meet with ISKCON devotees and leaders at the temple. They can guide you on your spiritual journey and answer any questions you may have about ISKCON and its practices.
Read ISKCON literature: Familiarize yourself with ISKCON's philosophy and teachings by reading their books and literature. The most famous book is the "Bhagavad Gita," which is considered a fundamental text in their tradition. Other books like "Bhagavatam" and "Chaitanya Charitamrita" are also valuable sources of knowledge.
Engage in devotional practices: Begin practicing bhakti yoga by chanting the Hare Krishna mantra regularly. The most prominent mantra in ISKCON is the Maha Mantra: "Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare, Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare."
Attend workshops and seminars: ISKCON centers often organize workshops and seminars on various spiritual topics. Participate in these events to deepen your understanding and strengthen your connection with the community.
Volunteer and serve: Offer your services and volunteer your time to help with temple activities and events. Service (seva) is an integral part of ISKCON's philosophy and helps you grow spiritually.
Seek initiation (if interested): If you are committed to ISKCON's teachings and practices and wish to become a formal member, you may consider seeking initiation from a qualified spiritual master (guru) within ISKCON. Initiation is a significant step in one's spiritual journey within the organization.
Remember, joining ISKCON is a personal choice, and it's essential to take your time, learn, and reflect on their teachings before making any commitments. It's also advisable to discuss your spiritual journey with experienced devotees or leaders who can offer guidance and support along the way.