Robert Wilson-Black, CEO for Sojourners, an international Christian organization head-quartered in Washington, DC, and his beautiful and brilliant daughter, Hannah Wilson- Black, were warmly welcomed by Pujya Swamiji and Sadhvi Bhagawatiji to their Himalayan home in Parmarth Niketan (Rishikesh).
The mission of Sojourners is to articulate the biblical call to social justice, inspiring hope and building a movement to transform individuals, communities, the church and the world. They strongly believe in putting their faith into action and selflessly serving humanity. Pujya Swamiji shared that selfless service and interfaith harmony were the cornerstones of Parmarth Niketan and many of the initiatives being undertaken, from the Global Interfaith WASH Alliance, first ever organization to bring the world’s top faith leaders together for improved WASH, to Divine Shakti Foundation, working to empower the divine feminine, providing disaster relief and rehabilitation in times of need, were based on putting faith into action.
They shared how vital it is for faiths to come together to serve for pressing issues like lack of WASH, poverty and climate change and how a call to serve humanity, regardless of gender, race or religion, caste or creed, is the very essence of all faiths.
During their time with us, they participated in Ganga Aarti & Yagna and were blessed by Pujya Swamiji with a green Peepal sapling, which is a symbol of unconditional service because it provides life-sustaining oxygen 24 hours every day. They lovingly planted the sapling with Sadhvi Bhagawatiji, the next morning just before leaving, so that they can return again and again to see it thrive in this beautiful and sacred land of Devbhoomi (Rishikesh).
Robert and Hannah also participated in satsang, where Sadviji so beautifully answered questions that so many of us have about our life’s journey and attended our yoga classes that are offered on a daily basis.
