Our heartfelt thanks to
Laxmimoni Dasi, the Dean of Students
Newsletter: What you were doing
before coming to the college?
For twenty-nine years I was the Principal
of the Vaishnava Academy for Girls, in
America. I was also involved in ISKCON
education on other levels, as a child-
protection advocate, a trainer, and a judge,
and as a member of ISKCON’s Ministry for
Educational Development.
NL: What inspired you to serve as the
Dean of Students?
One reason is that I am inspired by the
team of wonderful devotees developing
the college and training the students.
Another is that I am inclined to remain
connected to ISKCON’s educational de-
velopment. The process of education is
the backbone of ISKCON, on all levels, and
I have always felt that whatever little good
thing I can do becomes many times more
valuable if I teach many others to do it.
NL: What are your responsibilities?
Counseling the students and working
with the administration to improve the
facilities and programs.
NL: What was accomplished in your
first year?
A Second CD by Students
Kalindi Dasi and Krishangi-lila Dasi recording
Petite Somme 2 • 6940 Durbuy • Belgium • Tel: +32 (0) 86 32 32 77 • collegemembers@pamho.net • www.bhaktivedantacollege.com
This year the administrative team
clarified the college’s direction.
By examining the needs and op-
portunities in ISKCON and defin-
ing the college’s spiritual expec-
tations of the students, we paved
the way for success in the future.
As a team we clarified our vision
and how we want to achieve
our goals and what we want to
communicate to the students by
detailed discussion. So we have a more
determined system, and that should
bring increased clarity into our dealings
with the students. A new building is be-
ing constructed, which will increase our
facilities. Now the groundwork is laid for
the college to become a dynamic force
in Srila Prabhupada’s mission of spread-
ing Krishna consciousness.
NL: Tell us something about your
experiences with the students.
Most students have almost no prior expe-
rience living in a temple. They do not all
know the standards of temple life or the
Vaishnava etiquette between men and
women. We have students of many ages,
so there is a bit of a challenge in bridg-
ing the generation gap; their social needs
are different. And we have students from
about fifteen countries; the language and
cultural differences are challenging.
NL: What are the plans to develop this
service?
We hope to offer exciting and enjoyable
recreational, social, and cultural activities
within the community of Radhadesh and
more mentorship opportunities for the
new students.
‘Divine Love’ is the name of Bhaktivedanta
College’s second CD. The tracks are texts from
the Srimad-Bhagavatam, about the divine love
shared by Krishna and His intimate devotees,
with music composed by the students. The
students, supported by additional devotees,
produced a wonderful CD that will touch the
hearts of devotees and other listeners. The CD
is part of the college’s fundraising programme and
will mainly be distributed to the public. The CD is
available from Bhaktivedanta Library Services.
the scholarship donors:
Ambarisha Dasa
Anuttama Dasa
Mahaprabhu Dasa
Sham and Saroj Idnani
Members:
Dina Dayal Dasa and Anupama Dasi
Dinasraya Dasa
Newsletter Autumn 2008
Gurudas Dasa and Rati Manjari Dasi
Jacky Willaert
Kumari-priya Dasi Sixth Academic Year Ends Successfully
Nadia-bihari Dasa and Shyamalika Dasi
and vocational studies, combined with the
Nora Kalesse
spiritual programmes of the Radhadesh
Peter Pühler community, enable students to both receive
Rajesh C. (Srinivas Fine Arts) an education and grow in Krsna conscious-
Ranaka Dasa ness. Our graduates become more mature,
responsible, and focused.
Rupa Manjari Dasi
Devotees worldwide apply for admis-
Sri Ananga Manjari Dasi
Stephen Butler
sion. Our three-year programme entitles
them to a Bachelor of Theology degree
(B.Th.), awarded by the University of Wales
Donations of library books Lampeter, and the degree is recognised in
almost fifty countries so far. Our graduates
We thank the donors of books, especially: Architectural drawing of the first college building
have various possibilities for their future
Mahaprabhu Dasa
In the picture are six of the seven graduates and the College education or activities. cessfully completing postgraduate studies.
Prof. Winand Callewaert Principal: Kalindi Dasi, Jaya Bhadra Dasi, Lilasuka Dasa,
Yadunandana Dasa (Principal), Aravindaksa Dasa, Bhakta- We take care that students do services All of them took more responsibility for
Gangadhara Dasa
vasa Govinda Dasa and Dina Dayala Dasa (kneeling); other than studying, to ensure that their de- their lives and showed increased dedica-
Bhakti Rasa Dasa not pictured.
velopment is balanced. They cook breakfast in tion to Srila Prabhupada’s movement.
General donors: Srila Prabhupada wrote that one of ISKCON’s shifts for the community, make garlands and This summer, on June 19th, seven stu-
purposes is ‘to systematically propagate spiri- lead bhajans for the pleasure of the Deities, dents received B.Th. degrees. It is a great joy
Jacky Willaert
tual knowledge to society at large and to ed- and perform dramas at festivals. They also go and encouragement for the college staff to
Jaya Krsna Dasa
ucate all people in the techniques of spiritual to nearby towns to chant or distribute books. see students leave Radhadesh with bright
Josef Lauber
life.’ The establishment of Bhaktivedanta Col- Bhaktivedanta College graduated its faces, useful life skills, clearer goals, and
Mahaprabhu Dasa and Ashoka Dasi
lege, in 2002, resulted from a growing aware- first six B.Th. students in June 2007. This year, deepened understandings of the Vaishnava
Nitai-Gaurasundara Dasa and ness of ISKCON’s need to systematically train some of these graduates served on the col- tradition.
Matsya Dasi and educate its members. The academic lege staff or taught a course. Some are suc- (cont’d. on the next page)
Sham and Saroj Idnani
Sri Ananga Manjari Dasi
Vaishnava Dasa
An unnamed donor in Denmark Lampeter Representative Attends the Graduation Ceremony
Dr. Minna Shkul, the Assistant Director of Open Learning Theology & Religious Studies at the University of Wales Lampeter,
made these selected comments at the graduation ceremony.
The guest of honour at programme, which adds to the diversity capable, expert tutors. You have strong,
the graduation cere- of our department. The beauty of teach- sound management and a communal
mony in mid-June was ing in actual, vibrant communities like leadership team that benefits the life of
Dr. Minna Shkul. this is that people can learn in their con- the college and the movement. . . . Your
fessional environment and benefit the programme is academically sound and
‘I am very proud of our communal life without compromising theologically challenging. I particularly
partnership. . . . One academic requirements. . . . You have a enjoy its comprehensive and wide per-
would struggle to find ISKCON studies in team of capable people working here. spective on theological education, which
British or European universities, and Your college is headed by qualified, inno- is both commendable and extremely
therefore we are privileged to host your vative scholars, and you have highly useful.’
Petite Somme 2 • 6940 Durbuy • Belgium • Tel: +32 (0) 86 32 32 77 • collegemembers@pamho.net • www.bhaktivedantacollege.com
 In addition, Bhaktivedanta College annual-
ly offers a four-month Bhakti Shastri course, an
Introductory Course in Krsna Consciousness,
and other courses according to the needs
and interests of the devotees. Representa-
tives of Bhaktivedanta College also go to other
countries to teach courses on communications,
teacher training, and leadership and manage-
ment. The college is a model for future ISKCON
colleges worldwide.
Bhaktivedanta College needs its own build-
ings to be able to offer more education. We
wish to offer Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees
in Business Administration and a Master’s de-
gree in Theology. We started constructing our
first building in October 2007, a teacher and
staff dormitory. Initially it will be used for stu-
dent accommodation, too. Student dormito-
ries and a building with classrooms, a library,
and offices will complete the campus.
When the College started its first building,
the Radhadesh devotees were very pleased. It
was significant that one of ISKCON’s first edu-
cational institutions was establishing its place.
As the building grew, many expressed their en-
thusiasm. Unfortunately, the construction has
not yet been completed because a substantial
amount of funding is still needed.
There are various ways to support this proj-
ect. You can contribute to the building fund,
sponsor a scholarship for students, or give a
donation to be used at the discretion of the
management. We will be happy to discuss
First Elected Student Representative
Because of the large number of stu-
dents this year (about twenty-five),
the students felt the need for a stu-
dent representative, and in an election
chose Bhaktin Biljana from Macedonia
as their first Student Representative. By
accepting this service she took up the
responsibility of being a link between
the students and the staff. She informs
the college staff about students’ con-
cerns and informs the students of the
staff ’s feedback.
Biljana said about this service: ‘My role
as a student is primarily to be a good
student and a sincere practitioner of
your interest in supporting this unique ISKCON
project.
Contacts:
Applied Education: Preaching in The Hague by Shyama-sakhi Dasi
collegesupport@pamho.net
mobile: 0032 496 30 81 89.
our spiritual practices. I also got the op-
portunity to serve the students as their
representative. I became aware of many
challenges in reaching a genuine un-
derstanding within our small but com-
plex institution, and of the natural dif-
ficulties people have in seeing others’
perspectives. My main role has been to
facilitate dialogues that led us to mu-
Bhaktin Biljana articulates the students’ concerns.
tual discoveries and understandings.
As our Communications lecturer said the senior, experienced devotees lead-
recently, this field is about processes, ing the college and the students’ sincer-
not products; relationships are always ity to participate in building a healthy
something that are in the process of community, I think the results are both
being built and nourished. Considering predictable and promising.’
of Sita-Rama, Laxmana and Hanuman.
Gaura-Hari, a first-year student from
India, gave a Bhagavad-gita class,
which was followed by forty minutes of

It Takes More Commitment To Be a Master chanting (kirtan) by students. After the

An interview with one of the first six graduates of Bhaktivedanta College and his wife, who finished
the Bhakti Shastri course and the first year of the Undergraduate Programme of Bhaktivedanta College.
Newsletter: What are you two doing now?
Yugala Kisora Dasa: Concluding my work on
a Master’s degree in religious studies (Asian
religions) at Cardiff University. I will finish my
dissertation by September.
Bhakti Tina: I am a social worker. I help with
children’s services. I am occupied with work
and satisfied. Social work these days, unfortu-
nately, is more than needed because of both a
lack of support from an extended family and a
lack of the loving encouragement that children
need. Doing this work, I again and again realize
the importance of healthy family systems and
all that stems from them; positive values steer
one toward becoming a responsible citizen. As
a hobby, I do fine beadwork weaving. And I en-
joy being married to Yugala Kisora.
NL: Why did you go to Cardiff?
YKD: To continue my studies after graduating
from the college. Cardiff is one of Britain’s lead-
ing teaching and research universities, and the
School of Religious and Theological Studies
has a good reputation. The city is neither too
big nor too small. So I saw this as an ideal place
to pursue my passion for the academic study
of religion.
NL: What is the difference like for you between
undergraduate and graduate school?
YKD: At the graduate level you are expected to
show more ingenuity and fluency in data col-
lection, research, and analysis. Completion of
a Master’s degree requires a bit more commit-
ment and costs a bit more. This summer I will
be working to pay for it.
NL: Which skills that you gained at Bhakti-
vedanta College are valuable now?
YKD: In the devotional atmosphere of Bhakti-
vedanta College, I received the best of both
worlds: spiritual nourishment and academic
training. The spirit of devotion let me feel the
pulse of a living tradition and provided access
to a higher understanding that is inaccessible
in a merely academic setting. The ample prac-
tice I received in verbal and written commu-
nication, critical thinking, and overall analysis
was most helpful.
NL: What are some of your aims?
YKD: I strongly feel that for ISKCON to grow it
needs to strive for efficiency and competence
on all levels. By becoming a qualified devotee,
I hope to take part in building a better ISKCON
and to play a role in the sort of progress and
development that ISKCON members want to
see. I am confident that my graduate work
Yugala Kisora visiting a scenic place near Bristol
will increase the practical skills I need for
teaching and presenting Chaitanya Vaish-
navism to diverse audiences.
NL: What do you miss about Bhakti-
vedanta College?
YKD: The care and warmth of a devotee
community. Radhadesh was a home for
us, a place to learn new skills, and a place
of worship. Above all, it was a place to
meet and associate with devotees. We
miss our friends there.
NL: What are your plans?
YKD: It is challenging and at times diffi-
cult to live in a foreign country. So in a year
or two, we plan to start a family in Slovenia,
Tina’s country. I am from Croatia, so we will
have our families and friends nearby. There
is a lively devotee community in Slovenia,
and we look forward to being part of it.
Jalasaya presenting at the university
In May, eight students went to a three-
day program in The Hague, because a
key part of their education is applying
the theoretical knowledge from their
courses. Students learn how to speak
in public, give presentations, and
explain philosophy. So when there is
an opportunity to meet new audiences,
everyone feels enthusiastic.
In February, some students had al-
ready visited The Hague, and the local
devotees invited more students to return
for the three-day program in mid-May.
The students enjoyed every moment of
the many events in May.
On the first day, Jayadharma Dasa and
his wife, Natasha, the main organizers,
warmly received the students at their
home and provided places for them
to relax before the Sunday Feast. The
Hague ISKCON centre houses Deities
program, devotees took their instruments
and kirtan to a beach. While chanting
at sunset, the devotees were joined by
various people.
On the second day, a morning
program at the center was followed
by a kirtan, short dramas, and lunch
in a park. In the evening, Parvati Dasi’s
family hosted the students and local
devotees. Her two children, Varsha and
Arvin, were good hosts. After dinner,
the students performed a kirtan that
everyone enjoyed.
On the third day, the students gave
an hour-and-a-half presentation at
Den-Haag University. Everyone did his
or her best to prepare. The idea was
to present yoga as a way to connect
to our inner self, the environment,
the universe, and the spiritual world.
Everyone in the audience was attentive
and enjoyed it. Ali and Gopinatha, both
first-year students, ended the program
by leading a kirtan that enlivened all.
Devotees made a number of friendships
with the university students.
Gopinatha, from India, said, ‘We had
a great time, great kirtans, and great
hosts. I could feel the team spirit of the
devotees and was impressed that all of
The students chant in a park in The Hague.
us took part. I find it hard to preach a-
lone, but in a group, preaching becomes
a natural thing. Our chanting attracted
people, and we were all so inspired that
it was hard to stop. I am happy that we
made new friends. I hope to take part in
more preaching opportunities.’
Preaching is more than just giving
people information. Building relation-
ships is what will inspire others to
accept Krishna consciousness. And by
taking care of and helping one other,
devotees show how their philosophy
is applied in daily life. The devotees in
The Hague have a great service attitude
and strong friendships. This inspired
and left an impression on the students.
Although the students went to The
Hague to apply in practice what they
learned from various teachers, they
received more than they offered. They
were able to preach the philosophy,
chant the holy name constantly, and
make new friends.
 In addition, Bhaktivedanta College annual-
ly offers a four-month Bhakti Shastri course, an
Introductory Course in Krsna Consciousness,
and other courses according to the needs
and interests of the devotees. Representa-
tives of Bhaktivedanta College also go to other
countries to teach courses on communications,
teacher training, and leadership and manage-
ment. The college is a model for future ISKCON
colleges worldwide.
Bhaktivedanta College needs its own build-
ings to be able to offer more education. We
wish to offer Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees
in Business Administration and a Master’s de-
gree in Theology. We started constructing our
first building in October 2007, a teacher and
staff dormitory. Initially it will be used for stu-
dent accommodation, too. Student dormito-
ries and a building with classrooms, a library,
and offices will complete the campus.
When the College started its first building,
the Radhadesh devotees were very pleased. It
was significant that one of ISKCON’s first edu-
cational institutions was establishing its place.
As the building grew, many expressed their en-
thusiasm. Unfortunately, the construction has
not yet been completed because a substantial
amount of funding is still needed.
There are various ways to support this proj-
ect. You can contribute to the building fund,
sponsor a scholarship for students, or give a
donation to be used at the discretion of the
management. We will be happy to discuss
First Elected Student Representative
Because of the large number of stu-
dents this year (about twenty-five),
the students felt the need for a stu-
dent representative, and in an election
chose Bhaktin Biljana from Macedonia
as their first Student Representative. By
accepting this service she took up the
responsibility of being a link between
the students and the staff. She informs
the college staff about students’ con-
cerns and informs the students of the
staff ’s feedback.
Biljana said about this service: ‘My role
as a student is primarily to be a good
student and a sincere practitioner of
your interest in supporting this unique ISKCON
project.
Contacts:
Applied Education: Preaching in The Hague by Shyama-sakhi Dasi
collegesupport@pamho.net
mobile: 0032 496 30 81 89.
our spiritual practices. I also got the op-
portunity to serve the students as their
representative. I became aware of many
challenges in reaching a genuine un-
derstanding within our small but com-
plex institution, and of the natural dif-
ficulties people have in seeing others’
perspectives. My main role has been to
facilitate dialogues that led us to mu-
Bhaktin Biljana articulates the students’ concerns.
tual discoveries and understandings.
As our Communications lecturer said the senior, experienced devotees lead-
recently, this field is about processes, ing the college and the students’ sincer-
not products; relationships are always ity to participate in building a healthy
something that are in the process of community, I think the results are both
being built and nourished. Considering predictable and promising.’
of Sita-Rama, Laxmana and Hanuman.
Gaura-Hari, a first-year student from
India, gave a Bhagavad-gita class,
which was followed by forty minutes of

It Takes More Commitment To Be a Master chanting (kirtan) by students. After the

An interview with one of the first six graduates of Bhaktivedanta College and his wife, who finished
the Bhakti Shastri course and the first year of the Undergraduate Programme of Bhaktivedanta College.
Newsletter: What are you two doing now?
Yugala Kisora Dasa: Concluding my work on
a Master’s degree in religious studies (Asian
religions) at Cardiff University. I will finish my
dissertation by September.
Bhakti Tina: I am a social worker. I help with
children’s services. I am occupied with work
and satisfied. Social work these days, unfortu-
nately, is more than needed because of both a
lack of support from an extended family and a
lack of the loving encouragement that children
need. Doing this work, I again and again realize
the importance of healthy family systems and
all that stems from them; positive values steer
one toward becoming a responsible citizen. As
a hobby, I do fine beadwork weaving. And I en-
joy being married to Yugala Kisora.
NL: Why did you go to Cardiff?
YKD: To continue my studies after graduating
from the college. Cardiff is one of Britain’s lead-
ing teaching and research universities, and the
School of Religious and Theological Studies
has a good reputation. The city is neither too
big nor too small. So I saw this as an ideal place
to pursue my passion for the academic study
of religion.
NL: What is the difference like for you between
undergraduate and graduate school?
YKD: At the graduate level you are expected to
show more ingenuity and fluency in data col-
lection, research, and analysis. Completion of
a Master’s degree requires a bit more commit-
ment and costs a bit more. This summer I will
be working to pay for it.
NL: Which skills that you gained at Bhakti-
vedanta College are valuable now?
YKD: In the devotional atmosphere of Bhakti-
vedanta College, I received the best of both
worlds: spiritual nourishment and academic
training. The spirit of devotion let me feel the
pulse of a living tradition and provided access
to a higher understanding that is inaccessible
in a merely academic setting. The ample prac-
tice I received in verbal and written commu-
nication, critical thinking, and overall analysis
was most helpful.
NL: What are some of your aims?
YKD: I strongly feel that for ISKCON to grow it
needs to strive for efficiency and competence
on all levels. By becoming a qualified devotee,
I hope to take part in building a better ISKCON
and to play a role in the sort of progress and
development that ISKCON members want to
see. I am confident that my graduate work
Yugala Kisora visiting a scenic place near Bristol
will increase the practical skills I need for
teaching and presenting Chaitanya Vaish-
navism to diverse audiences.
NL: What do you miss about Bhakti-
vedanta College?
YKD: The care and warmth of a devotee
community. Radhadesh was a home for
us, a place to learn new skills, and a place
of worship. Above all, it was a place to
meet and associate with devotees. We
miss our friends there.
NL: What are your plans?
YKD: It is challenging and at times diffi-
cult to live in a foreign country. So in a year
or two, we plan to start a family in Slovenia,
Tina’s country. I am from Croatia, so we will
have our families and friends nearby. There
is a lively devotee community in Slovenia,
and we look forward to being part of it.
Jalasaya presenting at the university
In May, eight students went to a three-
day program in The Hague, because a
key part of their education is applying
the theoretical knowledge from their
courses. Students learn how to speak
in public, give presentations, and
explain philosophy. So when there is
an opportunity to meet new audiences,
everyone feels enthusiastic.
In February, some students had al-
ready visited The Hague, and the local
devotees invited more students to return
for the three-day program in mid-May.
The students enjoyed every moment of
the many events in May.
On the first day, Jayadharma Dasa and
his wife, Natasha, the main organizers,
warmly received the students at their
home and provided places for them
to relax before the Sunday Feast. The
Hague ISKCON centre houses Deities
program, devotees took their instruments
and kirtan to a beach. While chanting
at sunset, the devotees were joined by
various people.
On the second day, a morning
program at the center was followed
by a kirtan, short dramas, and lunch
in a park. In the evening, Parvati Dasi’s
family hosted the students and local
devotees. Her two children, Varsha and
Arvin, were good hosts. After dinner,
the students performed a kirtan that
everyone enjoyed.
On the third day, the students gave
an hour-and-a-half presentation at
Den-Haag University. Everyone did his
or her best to prepare. The idea was
to present yoga as a way to connect
to our inner self, the environment,
the universe, and the spiritual world.
Everyone in the audience was attentive
and enjoyed it. Ali and Gopinatha, both
first-year students, ended the program
by leading a kirtan that enlivened all.
Devotees made a number of friendships
with the university students.
Gopinatha, from India, said, ‘We had
a great time, great kirtans, and great
hosts. I could feel the team spirit of the
devotees and was impressed that all of
The students chant in a park in The Hague.
us took part. I find it hard to preach a-
lone, but in a group, preaching becomes
a natural thing. Our chanting attracted
people, and we were all so inspired that
it was hard to stop. I am happy that we
made new friends. I hope to take part in
more preaching opportunities.’
Preaching is more than just giving
people information. Building relation-
ships is what will inspire others to
accept Krishna consciousness. And by
taking care of and helping one other,
devotees show how their philosophy
is applied in daily life. The devotees in
The Hague have a great service attitude
and strong friendships. This inspired
and left an impression on the students.
Although the students went to The
Hague to apply in practice what they
learned from various teachers, they
received more than they offered. They
were able to preach the philosophy,
chant the holy name constantly, and
make new friends.

Laxmimoni Dasi, the Dean of Students
Newsletter: What you were doing
before coming to the college?
For twenty-nine years I was the Principal
of the Vaishnava Academy for Girls, in
America. I was also involved in ISKCON
education on other levels, as a child-
protection advocate, a trainer, and a judge,
and as a member of ISKCON’s Ministry for
Educational Development.
NL: What inspired you to serve as the
Dean of Students?
One reason is that I am inspired by the
team of wonderful devotees developing
the college and training the students.
Another is that I am inclined to remain
connected to ISKCON’s educational de-
velopment. The process of education is
the backbone of ISKCON, on all levels, and
I have always felt that whatever little good
thing I can do becomes many times more
valuable if I teach many others to do it.
NL: What are your responsibilities?
Counseling the students and working
with the administration to improve the
facilities and programs.
NL: What was accomplished in your
first year?
A Second CD by Students
Kalindi Dasi and Krishangi-lila Dasi recording
Petite Somme 2 • 6940 Durbuy • Belgium • Tel: +32 (0) 86 32 32 77 • collegemembers@pamho.net • www.bhaktivedantacollege.com
This year the administrative team
clarified the college’s direction.
By examining the needs and op-
portunities in ISKCON and defin-
ing the college’s spiritual expec-
tations of the students, we paved
the way for success in the future.
As a team we clarified our vision
and how we want to achieve
our goals and what we want to
communicate to the students by
detailed discussion. So we have a more
determined system, and that should
bring increased clarity into our dealings
with the students. A new building is be-
ing constructed, which will increase our
facilities. Now the groundwork is laid for
the college to become a dynamic force
in Srila Prabhupada’s mission of spread-
ing Krishna consciousness.
NL: Tell us something about your
experiences with the students.
Most students have almost no prior expe-
rience living in a temple. They do not all
know the standards of temple life or the
Vaishnava etiquette between men and
women. We have students of many ages,
so there is a bit of a challenge in bridg-
ing the generation gap; their social needs
are different. And we have students from
about fifteen countries; the language and
cultural differences are challenging.
NL: What are the plans to develop this
service?
We hope to offer exciting and enjoyable
recreational, social, and cultural activities
within the community of Radhadesh and
more mentorship opportunities for the
new students.
‘Divine Love’ is the name of Bhaktivedanta
College’s second CD. The tracks are texts from
the Srimad-Bhagavatam, about the divine love
shared by Krishna and His intimate devotees,
with music composed by the students. The
students, supported by additional devotees,
produced a wonderful CD that will touch the
hearts of devotees and other listeners. The CD
is part of the college’s fundraising programme and
will mainly be distributed to the public. The CD is
available from Bhaktivedanta Library Services.
Our heartfelt thanks to
the scholarship donors:
Ambarisha Dasa
Anuttama Dasa
Mahaprabhu Dasa
Sham and Saroj Idnani
Members:
Dina Dayal Dasa and Anupama Dasi
Dinasraya Dasa
Newsletter Autumn 2008
Gurudas Dasa and Rati Manjari Dasi
Jacky Willaert
Kumari-priya Dasi Sixth Academic Year Ends Successfully
Nadia-bihari Dasa and Shyamalika Dasi
and vocational studies, combined with the
Nora Kalesse
spiritual programmes of the Radhadesh
Peter Pühler community, enable students to both receive
Rajesh C. (Srinivas Fine Arts) an education and grow in Krsna conscious-
Ranaka Dasa ness. Our graduates become more mature,
responsible, and focused.
Rupa Manjari Dasi
Devotees worldwide apply for admis-
Sri Ananga Manjari Dasi
Stephen Butler
sion. Our three-year programme entitles
them to a Bachelor of Theology degree
(B.Th.), awarded by the University of Wales
Donations of library books Lampeter, and the degree is recognised in
almost fifty countries so far. Our graduates
We thank the donors of books, especially: Architectural drawing of the first college building
have various possibilities for their future
Mahaprabhu Dasa
In the picture are six of the seven graduates and the College education or activities. cessfully completing postgraduate studies.
Prof. Winand Callewaert Principal: Kalindi Dasi, Jaya Bhadra Dasi, Lilasuka Dasa,
Yadunandana Dasa (Principal), Aravindaksa Dasa, Bhakta- We take care that students do services All of them took more responsibility for
Gangadhara Dasa
vasa Govinda Dasa and Dina Dayala Dasa (kneeling); other than studying, to ensure that their de- their lives and showed increased dedica-
Bhakti Rasa Dasa not pictured.
velopment is balanced. They cook breakfast in tion to Srila Prabhupada’s movement.
General donors: Srila Prabhupada wrote that one of ISKCON’s shifts for the community, make garlands and This summer, on June 19th, seven stu-
purposes is ‘to systematically propagate spiri- lead bhajans for the pleasure of the Deities, dents received B.Th. degrees. It is a great joy
Jacky Willaert
tual knowledge to society at large and to ed- and perform dramas at festivals. They also go and encouragement for the college staff to
Jaya Krsna Dasa
ucate all people in the techniques of spiritual to nearby towns to chant or distribute books. see students leave Radhadesh with bright
Josef Lauber
life.’ The establishment of Bhaktivedanta Col- Bhaktivedanta College graduated its faces, useful life skills, clearer goals, and
Mahaprabhu Dasa and Ashoka Dasi
lege, in 2002, resulted from a growing aware- first six B.Th. students in June 2007. This year, deepened understandings of the Vaishnava
Nitai-Gaurasundara Dasa and ness of ISKCON’s need to systematically train some of these graduates served on the col- tradition.
Matsya Dasi and educate its members. The academic lege staff or taught a course. Some are suc- (cont’d. on the next page)
Sham and Saroj Idnani
Sri Ananga Manjari Dasi
Vaishnava Dasa
An unnamed donor in Denmark Lampeter Representative Attends the Graduation Ceremony
Dr. Minna Shkul, the Assistant Director of Open Learning Theology & Religious Studies at the University of Wales Lampeter,
made these selected comments at the graduation ceremony.
The guest of honour at programme, which adds to the diversity capable, expert tutors. You have strong,
the graduation cere- of our department. The beauty of teach- sound management and a communal
mony in mid-June was ing in actual, vibrant communities like leadership team that benefits the life of
Dr. Minna Shkul. this is that people can learn in their con- the college and the movement. . . . Your
fessional environment and benefit the programme is academically sound and
‘I am very proud of our communal life without compromising theologically challenging. I particularly
partnership. . . . One academic requirements. . . . You have a enjoy its comprehensive and wide per-
would struggle to find ISKCON studies in team of capable people working here. spective on theological education, which
British or European universities, and Your college is headed by qualified, inno- is both commendable and extremely
therefore we are privileged to host your vative scholars, and you have highly useful.’
Petite Somme 2 • 6940 Durbuy • Belgium • Tel: +32 (0) 86 32 32 77 • collegemembers@pamho.net • www.bhaktivedantacollege.com