November 2013 – June 2014

Christmas Decoration Service Project – Prashanti Nilayam Australian members participated in this wonderful opportunity, which many described as “life changing.” The group comprised children, youth, adults, grand parents and some new devotees who had never before been to Prashanti Nilayam.

Office Bearers’ Retreat - February members from around Australia came together for this bi- annual event, which focussed on presentations and workshops on principles of Sai leadership, plus information and resources to support new office bearers in their role.

Recent growth It is encouraging to see a revival of interest in study circle in regions where energy has been devoted to an improved quality of study circle facilitation. There has been an influx of new membership is some places where families of SSE children are being attracted to join centres, due to the involvement of their children.

Self Transformation Programme This continues to expand, with launches in two new regions during this period (South Australia and Queensland- pictured). The focus is on the Nine Point Code of Conduct and the group approach fosters care of members for each other. It has attracted devotees who have moved away from the Organisation in recent years.

Service for Spiritual Transformation The incoming national service coordinator has been selected for the next term and will focus on the transformative aspects of service, rather than on expanding service projects.

SSE Teacher Training There has been a focus on SSE teacher training, with priority placed on courses for new and untrained teachers, plus refresher courses for those who are experienced. New teachers complete their training with a period of mentorship with an experienced teacher. After basic training, teachers are also encouraged to participate in the courses on the Life and Teachings of Sai Baba offered by the ISSEA.

Regional Youth Eco Retreat Victoria This successful retreat focussed on the spiritual connection with the environment and brought together many youth who had been less connected with regular activities.

Sai Medical Unit Offering services in Fiji and the Philippines Fiji Fiji – Annual Medical Camp 2480 patients in 3337 consultations Medical Education – recent focus on Women’s health Current planning for 2014 – Fifty volunteers are registered to offer service to a more isolated island with few resources Spiritually uplifting for volunteers

Sai Medical Unit Philippines 25 volunteers have registered – 15 medical and 10 non-medical Funds have been provided by Australian members Medical camp held at the end of June Provision of regular meals to local people Village adopted for rebuilding Anchorman based in the Philippines to coordinate efforts and liaise with local resources

Sathya Sai School

Future Challenges Unity of faiths – focussing on the values common to all, rather than the teacher or the philosophy, which can accentuate difference Engaging with our local community in culturally appropriate ways – empowering members to share their spirituality when they connect with others through service.