US Senator John Cornyn Visits the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
Vikarm Patel presents a momento to Senator Cornyn.
STAFFORD: On Saturday, November 9, United States Senator John Cornyn and his wife Sandy Cornyn visited the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Stafford, to appreciate the art and architecture of the Mandir as well as to learn more about the culture and values of Indian-Americans living in Texas.
US Senator with delegates of BAPS.
On behalf of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, Sadhu Priyasevadas, the senior Swami representing the local congregation in the Houston area, welcomed the senator in a traditional manner by placing a sanctified flower garland around his neck in a gesture of peace and friendship. Mrs. Cornyn was also welcomed traditionally with a garland by Kinarri Amin.
Senator Cornyn and wife Sandy Cornyn at BAPS.
During their visit, the Senator Cornyn and his wife admired the architecture of the Mandir especially how the Mandir was assembled like a large, three dimensional jigsaw puzzle from pieces of stone that were intricately carved in India. The Senator and his wife also appreciated the congregation’s diverse volunteer force motivated by a culture that emphasizes family, faith and service. He also spoke of the value the organization and its members bring to the area through the many community service projects organized throughout the year.
After the tour of the Mandir, the Senator and his wife had a chance to meet with members of the BAPS congregation. The Senator was presented with a photograph of the Mandir as a memento of his visit before departing.
The Senator was accompanied by his wife, Sandy, as well as Jay Guerrero, Jessica Sandlin and a photographer.
About BAPS
The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), a worldwide socio-spiritual organization is dedicated to community service, peace and harmony. Motivated by Hindu principles, BAPS strives to care for the world by caring for societies, families and individuals. Through social and spiritual activities, BAPS endeavors to produce better citizens of tomorrow who have a high esteem for their roots. Its 3,300 international centers support these character-building activities. Under the guidance and leadership of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, BAPS aspires to build a community that is morally, ethically and spiritually pure, and free of addictions.
About Pramukh Swami Maharaj
His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the fifth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, has inspired millions of people across the world to lead a God-centered, morally pure life. As the present leader of BAPS, Pramukh Swami Maharaj has traveled extensively, emphasizing the importance of family harmony, community service and spiritual progress. He embodies the essence of Hindu life. His compassion for humanity, universal wisdom and striking simplicity has touched many world religious and national leaders.
For further details, visit
www.baps.org