Self-Realization Fellowship Retreat and Hermitage [2/77]

This center was founded in 1937 [my birth year] by Paramahansa Yogananda. He brought India's ancient science of meditation to the west in 1920. The Golden Lotus Temple was located here from 1938 to 1942 when it started to slip from its foundation. The temple does not exist here now but a new temple was built nearby and is in use today. The Meditation Gardens, however, do exist and are very beautiful, well kept by the city and visited by thousands of people. On the beautiful sunny day that we were here in what is now called Swami's Park, there were many meditating in the private little garden groves. The view of the ocean from the height of the cliff is astounding.

heavenly vista [1/76]

On my birthday I flew to San Diego for the weekend to visit the UCSD campus at La Jolla. On the second leg of my journey, MSN to SAN, I viewed the above from my window seat. The Delta computer had changed my seat from aisle to window and I was squeezed in for a few hours. If the seat change had not happened I would not have seen this beautiful heavenly vista. What a wonderful way to start the second year of my odyssey! 

update...

I reached my goal of 75 entries for places of worship before my 75th birthday! Now for my birthday on September 5, 2013, I will start again and try for 76. This way I will have a continuing blog and the search will go on for more places to pray; my redefining of places of worship.

Peace Pagoda in Grafton, NY

Brevard College Bell Tower [75]

This was the first and the last; the first place we visited and the last. I prayed here for my grand daughter as she enters her first year of studies at Brevard College. I know she will do well as she is very motivated, smart and the Brevard community will take care of her. On moving day there were representatives from many on the area churches on hand to welcome the students and also to help them move into their new living accomodations. The Bell Tower at the entrance to the college is a symbol of the care and guidance they offer the students.

Cathey's Creek Baptist Church [74]

On a drive outside the city limits we found this country road with a sign and cross. It was the most charming oasis of peace. We went back there several times but never saw anyone worshipping This Baptist Church at Cathey's Creek was one of the last places we visited.

Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd [73]

Saw this beautiful church driving from campus to our hotel. We had to go see it and stand in the roadway to take a picture. The stark crosses and their contrast with the wood and stone make it stand out for all to see. This Lutheran Church is a landmark in the city of Brevard.

St Phillip Episcopal Church [72]

Visited Brevard, North Carolina and spent some time visiting churches and places of worship. Mainly I wanted to finish my goal of 75 before my deadline, September 4, 2013.

St Philip Episcopal Church epitomizes the Main Street in Brevard; old, stately and southern. It is a very sturdy looking and welcoming structure.