Notes on a Reflective Pilgrimage

The crisp and sunny afternoon of Sunday March 16th offered a wonderful opportunity for a large group of Latina women representing different countries, faiths, and beliefs to gather outside the elegant Hindu Mandir Temple located in Maple Grove, MN. The group, led by Eye of the Heart Center for Creative Contemplation Reflective Pilgrimage coordinator Celina Martina, gathered in a circle as they shared their intentions for the experience and learned about each others’ spiritual journeys. Fanny-Prema-Manishi, a Latina-Indigenous healer and spiritual teacher, guided the group inside the temple and explained some of the history behind the multiple altars.

The group spent time reflecting on the lessons of Hinduism’s sacred Gods and Goddesses and learned about mantra meditation. The day continued with a visit to the ISKCON Center of Minnesota in South Minneapolis. The ISKCON community opens its doors and welcomes all every Sunday during their celebrations to Krishna (God) and offers delicious vegetarian dishes to break bread together in community. The group of Latina women had the chance to participate in movement and singing with fellow community members and learn more about the teachings written in the Bhagavad Gita.

Eye of the Heart’s Reflective Pilgrimages offer an immersive experience to connect the Sacred and Divine with our humanity and cultural identities. “I am grateful to Eye of the Heart Center for this beautiful experience, full of true love and amazing energy,” shared a Pilgrimage participant. “Spaces like this motivate us to see the beautiful things in life,” wrote another Latina woman about this activity.

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

- Celina Martina