Holy Pilgrimage - Hindu temples in USA
Iskcon, Hillsboro,
Oregon
2095 NW Aloclek #1107, Hillsboro, Oregon 97124 • 503/675-5000 •
info@iskconportland.com
Sunday Feast: 5:00 - 7:30 p.m. • Weekday Darshan and Prashadam: Monday - Saturday 7:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Sunday Feast: 5:00 - 7:30 p.m. • Weekday Darshan and Prashadam: Monday - Saturday 7:00 - 8:00 p.m.
What is Krishna Consciousness ?
Krishna
consciousness, or bhakti-yoga, is acting in harmony with ultimate reality—the
Supreme Person, who is Krishna, the Supreme
Personality of Godhead. Bhakti, or devotional service, is the relationship
between the bhakta (devotee) and Bhagavan (God, or Krishna,
who is the possessor of all opulences.)
People
are all naturally Krishna conscious. In
illusion, however, we think we’re the center of the universe, and that our
bodies are our real selves. Krishna
consciousness means becoming free from that illusion, and experiencing our true
blissful, eternal nature. It's a process that works. Anyone can do it.
Krishna consciousness is both a
practice and the goal of the practice. The goal is to be Krishna
conscious. The practice is to always stay conscious of Krishna.
Festivals
In Krishna
Consciousness, devotees increase their awareness of the Lord by celebrating
many beautiful festivals throughout the year. On these auspicious
days, devotees blissfully remember sweet and special appearances and
pastimes. Devotional festivals follow the lunar calendar, and timing can
vary considerably from year to year. The ISKCON Portland calendar lists
upcoming festival dates, and details are posted online as they become
available.Ekadasi
Ekadasi is the eleventh day of the waxing and waning moons. On Ekadasi, devotees fast from grains and legumes, and try to increase spiritual activities such as chanting, reading scripture, and other service.
Gaura Purnima
Gaura Purnima is the Appearance Day of Lord Chaitanya, Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu , who appeared in Navadvipa, West Bengal, India, on a full moon night during a lunar eclipse, February 27, 1486. Lord Chaitanya is Krishna Himself, and came to spread love of Godhead through the congregational chanting of the Holy Names. Gaura Purnima is generally celebrated in the month of March. (Fast until moonrise.)
Rama Navami (3/31/2012)
Rama Navami is the appearance day of Lord Rama. (Fast until sunset.) Generally celebrated in the month of April.
Nrsimha Chaturdasi (5/4/2012)
The appearance day of Lord Nrsimhadeva, who appeared to rescue his pure devotee, Prahlada, from his demoniac father. Generally celebrated during the month of May. (Fast until dusk.)
Anniversary of Sri Sri Nitai Sacinandana's Welcome to Hillsboro
The Rose Festival weekend marks the arrival of Sri Sri Nitai Sacinandana at ISKCON Hillsboro. There is an anniversary festival at the temple.
Ratha Yatra
On Ratha Yatra, in Puri, India, the Lord Krishna, as Jagannath, and his brother Balaram and sister Subhadra, celebrate a special pastime by coming out of the temple and traveling across town on three giant carts. (In actuality, in this pastime the Lord is traveling from Dwarka to Vrindavan.) Hundreds of thousands of devotees assemble in the streets to see the Lord and get His mercy. In Puri, this is generally celebrated in the month of June. ISKCON temples around the world hold Ratha Yatras, generally during the summer months, bringing the Lord out to the people, and hosting festivals and feasts. These range from giant festivals in New York, Los Angeles, and London, to smaller processions, like the Portland Ratha Yatra on the waterfront.
Balarama’s Appearance (8/1/2012)
Balarama Jayanti marks the appearance of Lord Balarama, Krishna’s elder brother. (Fast until noon.)
Janmastami (8/9/12)
Janmastami is the appearance day of Lord Krishna. The deities are dressed in a special new outfit, and the temple is decorated beautifully with flowers and vegetation. Dramas and musical presentations are performed, visitors usually have the opportunity to swing baby Krishna on a special swing, and a special abishek (bathing the Lord with auspicious substances, like milk, honey, yogurt, and fruit juice) is performed. Typically at least 108 special food preparations are offered to the Lord. A grand feast is held for visitors and devotees, from late evening on. Generally occurs in August or early September. (Devotees fast until midnight.)
Srila Prabhupada’s Appearance (8/10/12)
Jagat-guru Srila A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada took birth as Abhay Charan De, in Calcutta, India, September 1, 1896, the day after Janmastami. In 1959, he took the renounced order of life, and in 1966 founded the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, following his spiritual master’s instruction to preach in English. He authored more than 80 books and initiated thousands of disciples. By the time of his departure from this world, ISKCON had more than 108 temples, farm communities, and preaching centers. Read more about Srila Prabhupada. (Fast until noon.)
Radhastami (9/22/2012)
Radhastami marks the appearance of Srimati Radharani, Krishna’s eternal consort. Srimati Radharani is the mother of the universe, the spiritual mother of all souls, and She embodies purity, selflessness, caring, sharing, nurturing, and love. The word “Hare”, which we chant in the maha mantra, means “Radhe.” In the Krishna Consciousness movement, devotees carefully worship Srimati Radharani as the bestower of devotional service to Krishna. Devotees chant her name in the maha-mantra, worship her deity form, and by follow the instructions of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, who is the combined form of Radha and Krishna. Radhastami usually falls in September. (Fast until noon.)
Kartika (10/30/2012 - 11/27/2012)
During Kartika, or the month of Damodar, devotees worship Krishna by offering candles and a singing a special song, the Damodarastakam. Generally October-November.
Govardhana Puja (11/14/2012)
Govardhana Puja is celebrated on the day after Diwali. The festival is celebrates Krishna’s lifting the Govardhan mountain on his little finger and protecting his devotees. As a child, Krishna convinced the people of Gokul not to worship the rain god, Indra at the end of every monsoon season. Indra, angered, brought a huge storm. Krishna lifted the whole of Govardhan mountain (in Mathura) for seven days, allowing the residents to take shelter under it. Humbled, Indra became a follower of Krishna.
On Govardhana Puja, the devotees offer a mountain of food to Krishna and also pray to him. This mountain of food is decorated with flowers and worshipped, and devotees circumambulate the hill and offer prayers. There is a grand feast, preceded by no fasting at all! Generally observed in November.
Gopastami (11/20/2012)
Gopastami celebrates Krishna and Balarama’s first childhood day going off to herd the cows. This was a celebration only for men and boys, but Srimati Radharani and her gopi friends wanted to join in. They put on dhotis and boy’s garments to join in the fun. In many temples, Srimati Radharani wears a dhoti and turban on this day, and Her lotus feet are revealed. Gopastami takes place in the fall.
Appearance of Sri Advaita Acarya
Sri Advaita Acarya is the foremost of all the Navadvipa Vaishnavas. He is preeminent in knowledge, renunciation and devotion. His appearance is generally observed in January. (Fast until noon.)
Nityananda Trayodasi (Appearance of Lord Nityananda)
Lord Nityananda Prabhu appeared as Lord Chaitanya’s principal associate for spreading the congregational chanting of the holy names of God. He is an incarnation of Lord Balarama, Krishna’s older brother. Nityananda Prabhu appeared in the village of Ekachakra, in West Bengal, India, around 1474. It is by his mercy we can obtain love of Krishna. Usually takes place in January or February. (Fast until noon.)
Siva Ratri
Devotees worship Lord Siva in his role as a devotee of the Lord.
*About Fasting
Adults and older children typically observe some type of fast on each festival day. Fasts are followed by a prasadam feast, and fasting is considered a joyous austerity, happily undertaken. Devotees may observe fasts by fasting completely, by fasting from food but taking water, by taking fruit or fruit and nuts and some dairy, or simply by fasting from grains and beans. Devotees consider their health and occupational needs, plus if they are pregnant or nursing, when deciding how they will fast.
Visit the Temple
The best way to experience Krishna Consciousness is to come visit the temple. You will see devotional programs in action, meet devotees, and taste some of the sweetness of a life lived in relationship to serving the Lord.What to Expect
One of the of the first things you may notice at the temple is a lot of attendees, or devotees, wearing devotional Vedic clothing. Many of the ladies will be in saris or salwar kameez suits, and some of the men will be wearing traditional dhotis and khurtas. These are comfortable, colorful, and help remind us of our positions as servants of Krishna. You are welcome to wear what you like; modest apparel is appreciated!Another thing you may notice is the wide array of shoes left outside the temple door. In order to keep the temple clean and pure, we leave our footwear outside and come in in bare feet or socks.
Kirtan
The devotional chanting of the holy names of the Lord, is called kirtan, and devotees take turns leading. The kirtan is call and response, so the leader will sing a verse, and the congregation will sing it back. Common instruments are the mrdanga drum, kartals (brass finger cymbals), and harmonium (a bellowed keyboard instrument). Please join in! Generally, we are chanting the Hare Krishna Maha Mantra:Hare Krishna
Hare Krishna
Krishna Krishna
Hare Hare
Hare Rama
Hare Rama
Rama Rama
Hare Hare
which is often bookended by other prayers at the beginning and end of the kirtan. Often, there is some very enthusiastic dancing to accompany the kirtan. You are welcome to dance, too! Men and women dance in separate areas.
The Altar
The altar, at the front of the temple room, is home to Sri Sri Nitai Sacinandana, the presiding deities of the Hillsboro temple. These are Gaura Nitai deities of neem wood, and They are so merciful that they have come here so the devotees can worship and serve Them. Devotees know that the Lord is personally present in his deity form, and devotees can then concentrate their senses on Their beautiful form.During a special ceremony called an arotik, Their Lordships are offered various types of auspicious items. The conch shell is blown before and at the end of the arotik.
Class
Most programs incorporate a scripture class. Usually there is a reading of a verse or verses from Bhagavat Gita or Srimad Bhagavatam, followed by a short discussion about how the verse applies to our current situation. Holidays may feature special readings and discussions of particular pastimes of the Lord.Prasadam
Prasadam is spiritual food that has been offered to the Lord. It nourishes not just our material body, but our spiritual soul. On Sundays and special holidays there is a large feast after the program, and on weekdays there is usually fruit prasadam and snacks after the arotik. It is most auspicious to eat or honor prasadam, so please don't leave before you've had some!The Sunday Feast
Every Sunday, devotees gather at Hare Krishna Temples around the world for the Sunday Feast. The Sunday Feast was started by our founder-acarya, Srila Prabhupada, in 1966 on the Lower East Side of New York. Srila Prabhupada cooked alongside the devotees, creating a dozen exotic vegetarian preparations each week, including puris (deep fried bread), chutney (sweet and spicy side dish), subjis (vegetable dishes), rice, raita (vegetables in cool yogurt) pakoras (battered and friend vegetables), halavah (sweet wheat pilaf), sweet rice, and many other items. Hundreds of interested persons would come for class, kirtan, and the prasadam of the opulent feast offered to Krishna. By the 1970's, Krishna temples had spread to cities around the world, and the Sunday Feast tradition continued.n Portland/Hillsboro, the feast is prepared by devotees on a rotating schedule of volunteers. Some items may be prepared at home, and some in the temple. The feast generally consists of rice, one or two vegetable dishes, a dal (soup from dried beans), a dessert, and perhaps a beverage, chutney, or a special treat.
Recipes for many preparations can be found in the Recipes section.
Sunday Feast Schedule
Arotik: 5:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Class: 5:30 - 6:15
Kirtans or Bhajans (music): 6:15 - 6:30
Feast: 6:30 - 7:30
Arotik: 5:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Class: 5:30 - 6:15
Kirtans or Bhajans (music): 6:15 - 6:30
Feast: 6:30 - 7:30
Volunteer
There are volunteer opportunities for cooking, cleaning, serving, and sponsoring both the Sunday Feasts and special events. Please contact info@iskconportland.com if you think you might like to help.
There are volunteer opportunities for cooking, cleaning, serving, and sponsoring both the Sunday Feasts and special events. Please contact info@iskconportland.com if you think you might like to help.
Bhaktivriksha
Day and Time: Friday from 7 to 9 PMLocation: various residences
Contact: Madhava Hari das, 503-780-1710, madhavaharidas@hotmail.com
Srimad Bhagavad Gita is the essence of all Vedic Scriptures,
dating back more than 5000 years. Every question and aspect of life is answered
concisely in the Gita's 700 verses. The Bhaktivriksha program aims to
systematically discuss the Gita and other Vedic scriptures, and how these
teachings can be applied to make one's life truly sublime. The progr
a.m.includes chanting, singing, and music, Bhakti Yoga practice, discussions,
and sumptuous food for all participants. Locations vary; please call or email
for information.
Corvallis Bhaktivriksha
Day and Time: Friday from 7 to 9 PMLocation: various residences in the Corvallis area
Contact: Krishna Keshav das
Essence of Bhagavad Gita
Day and Time: Friday, 7:00-9:30 p.m.Location: Hillsboro Temple
Contact: Parama Karuna das and Damodara Lila devi dasi
paramakarunadas@hotmail.com, 503-888-1696
7:00 -7:30 pm – Discussions on Bhagavad Gita
7:30 -7:45 pm – Aarti/Kirtan
7:45 -9:00 pm – Discussions continued
9:00 -9:10 pm – Japa
9:10 pm – Dinner prasad a.m.
Sunday School
The quality of children's lives and character is a major concern for parents. Children take their experiences into their hearts, and these experiences form their character. Without proper character, knowledge can be destructive to self and society. The aim of Sunday School is to provide a loving environment where students are nourished with care and devotion. We look forward to serving your children, providing them with a Krsna conscious education, and most of all helping them along the path to Krsna Bhakti.Through a lively blend of art, stories, scripture, dramas and games, children are immersed in Vaisnava spiritual wisdom and culture. Each session focuses on one devotional topic, and also includes a group cultural presentation such as a drama or musical program. Students explore their topic through drawing, painting, collage, drama and music. For festivals, children prepare and perform dramas for the congregation and guests. The last class of each session is a fun activity, which all Sunday School age groups do together. At the end of each session, each child gets a completion certificate, and the children share what they learned during the session with the congregation.
The sweetest goal of Vaishnava Sunday School is imparting holistic education to children to aid in the development of their character and personality. Children build long-lasting, Krsna-conscious friendships based on a shared desire to love and serve Krsna.
Bhakti Library
The Bhakti Library is open to all currently registered Sunday School students. The library is open every Sunday from 7:00 - 7:30 p.m. Each child is issued his or her own library card, which they must present for checking out books.A refundable $20 deposit is required when children sign up for library cards. In the event of a checked-out book being lost or damaged, this deposit will cover replacement costs. Upon withdrawing from library use, this fee will be returned in full if the account is clear.
Sunday School Schedule
Classes are from 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. every Sunday. Sessions are as follows:
- September
- October
general session - November presentation month
- December -
January
general session - February presentation month
- March - April general session
- May presentation month
- June Youth Ratha Yatra prep and celebration
Age Groups
- Madhava Class, age 4-6
- Damodar Class, age 7-10
- Madan Mohan Class, age 11-14
Three month sessions: $20.00 per session; $10.00 for each additional child from the same family.
June session: $5.00
If paid in full, the cost for the complete school year is $60.
Special Events
Project PrasadamIn the Sunday School's December fund raiser, the children wrap home-made cookies, laddus, caramels, and other sweets for sale. The gift plates make beautiful gifts and help bring Krishna's mercy to relatives, friends, and coworkers during the holiday season.
Krishna Conscious Costume Party
In the fall, there is a Krishna Conscious Costume Party, with carnival games and treats. Children are encouraged to dress as a character from the Vedic Scriptures.
Ratha Yatra
Sunday School Ratha Yatra is held at the end of June. Children decorate the Ratha cart and promenade Lords Jagannath, Baladeva, and Subhadra through the temple neighborhood while performing kirtan.
Saturday
Krishna Book Reading
Day and Time: Saturdays 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.Location: ISKCON Temple Hillsboro
Devotees read from Krishna book in an all-ages group setting. Everyone is encouraged to read and share their questions and realizations. Devotees are welcome to stay on to attend the evening arotik at 7:30pm.
Sunday Feast
5:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Monday - Saturday
7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
(Arotik at 7:30 p.m.)
Getting to the Temple
2095 NW Aloclek Hillsboro, OR 97124
By car, the temple is easily accessed from US26 via exit 62A, Cornelius Pass Road South. By public transit, there is a bus on Cornelius Pass Road; trip planning information is available from TriMet.
The Orenco Max Station is a 1.1 mile walk from the temple. Take 231st Avenue North to Cornell Road, Cornell Road east to N Walbridge. At Cornelius Pass Road, N Walbridge becomes NW Aloclek. Follow the temple signs to the left side of the park.
Contact Us
Questions? Interested in learning more? Please contact us!Email:
info@iskconportland.com
Phone:
503/675-5000
Write or visit:
2095 NW Aloclek #1107
Hillsboro, Oregon 97124
Contact the Webmaster:
Please let us know if we need to make corrections, or let us know what you think: Send an Email to the Webmaster
Thank you!
Temple Services
A number of services are available through the temple. Some of these services are:- Home Preaching & Kirtan Programs
- Home Pujas with/without Fire Sacrifice
- Baby's First Grains Ceremony
- Installation of Srimad Bhagavatams
- Weddings
June 2013
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6:00-7:30 Krishna Book Reading 7:30 Arotik |
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Apara Ekadasi 7:30 Arotik |
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7:30 Arotik |
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7:30 Arotik |
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7:30 Arotik |
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6:00-7:30 Krishna Book Reading 7:30 Arotik |
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7:30 Arotik |
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7:30 Arotik |
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Anniversary of Sri Sri Nitai Sacinandana's Appearance in Hillsboro 7:30 Arotik |
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7:30 Arotik |
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Japa Retreat 6:00-7:30 Krishna Book Reading 7:30 Arotik |
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Japa Retreat 2:00 NE 82nd Feast 5:00 Sunday Feast Father's Day |
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7:30 Arotik |
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Ganga Puja 7:30 Arotik |
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Pandava Nirjala Ekadasi 7:30 Arotik |
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7:30 Arotik |
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6:00-7:30 Krishna Book Reading 7:30 Arotik |
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Snana Yatra 2:00 NE 82nd Feast 5:00 Sunday Feast |
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7:30 Arotik Memorial Day |
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7:30 Arotik |
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7:30 Arotik |
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7:30 Arotik |
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6:00-7:30 Krishna Book Reading 7:30 Arotik |
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Om Tat Sat
(Continued...)
(My
humble salutations to the great devotees
, wikisources and Pilgrimage tourist guide for the
collection )
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