December 2015

Young Jains of America

December 2015

Young Minds December 2015

Est. 1991

www.yja.org

Jai Jinendra!

Thank you for reading the December 2015 issue of Young Minds! While going through our articles and pictures, you will see that YJA has spent the past month promoting the Jain way of life by encouraging acts of kindness. Through Navkar Jaaps and service events, we have showed our love and support for the well-being of all living souls. During this holiday season, we hope all of you too can take some valuable time to give back to your community!

Your YJA Executive Board has also been hard at work to foster and strengthen local youth groups. In January, we will publicly introduce our first group of YJA-affiliated college chapters.

Throughout the rest of the winter and early spring, we will host retreats in all six regions of the United States. By organizing such meaningful events and projects, we hope to build the excitement for the 2016 YJA Convention, which will take place in Los Angeles from July 1st to the 4th!

On behalf of the YJA Executive Board, we thank our Board of Trustees, the JAINA Executive Committee, and the many volunteers who helped make 2015 a very memorable year. Now, let's get excited for 2016!

Sincerely, Sunny Dharod & Puja Savla 2015-2016 YJA Executive Board Co-Chairs

National Dinner Recap p.10-11

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Inside this Issue: p. 4-5

Fall Events Recap

p. 6-7

Meet the #YJA2016 Convention Committee

p. 8-9

Explaining Jainism in the 21st Century: Presenting the History and Ideals of Paryushan Parva

p. 10-11 National Dinner Recap

From the Editor: p. 12-15

p. 16-17

p. 18

A Letter from The Emergent Young Leaders Team Pinki’s Palate

Retreat Announcement

Dear Reader, Between religious festivals and social gatherings the fall never fails to seep me in all things Jain.

Through relevant coursework this semester, paralleled with campus-wide dialogs about social activism, I realized the correlation between Jainism and social change. This national, and even international, conversation is one I believe, I, as a Jain, should partake in. With tenants such as anekantavad playing a key role in forming my daily thoughts, I often see connections to my pathshala classes and opportunities to make a change, whether campus, town, or statewide.

As I look forward, I also look back. Understanding the scientific and historical significance of Jain rituals and festivals increases my understanding of Jainism, but also my ability to explain. This issue of Young Minds glances back at history and looks forward to the future.

What can we do now to better understand our rituals and apply them to our lives today? How can we implement the tenants of Jainism to make a change for the future?

Read ahead to find articles on both issues along with photo memories of all our fall events!

Warmly, Saejal Chatter Director of Publications youngminds@yja.org 2

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Contributors A special shout out to all the talented, inspirational writers!

Monica Vora Priyanka Shah Priti Shah Nikhil Bumb Sonali Vakharia Parth Savla Neal Daftary

A warm thank you to: Puja Savla and Sunny Dharod For their relentless hard work every hour of every day. You inspire us all to put one hundred and ten percent in all we do.

Navakār Mantra Ṇamō arihantāṇaṁ I bow to the arihants, destroyers of their inner enemies. Ṇamō siddhāṇaṁ I bow to the siddhas, the liberated souls. Ṇamō āyariyāṇaṁ I bow to the acharyas, the religious leaders. Ṇamō uvajjhāyāṇaṁ I bow to the upadhyays, the religious teachers. Ṇamō lōē savva sāhūṇaṁ I bow to all the sadhus and sadhvis, those who have renounced the worldly life and follow a path of simplicity. Ēsōpanchaṇamōkkārō, savvapāvappaṇāsaṇō Maṅgalā ṇaṁ ca savvēsiṁ, paḍamama havaī maṅgalaṁ This five-fold bow (mantra) destroys all sins and obstacles, and of all auspicious mantras, is the first and foremost one.

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Fall Event Recap From Bowling to Chai & Chats, Vegan Day Celebrations to Thanksgiving Jaaps, and Volunteering to Temple Clean-Ups, this Fall was very busy for YJA. Take a trip down memory lane with moments from events all over the country!

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Meet the #YJA16 Convention Committee!

36 Members. 11 Committees. 1 Breathtaking Convention.

Co-Chairs: Akash Shah Puja Savla Amit Shah Sunny Dharod Adult Volunteer Committee: Diyaanka Jhaveri Urvashi Jain Tina Lapsia Daytime Committee: Chintav Shah Kayuri Shah Mahima Shah

Fundraising Committee: Poojan Mehta Falguni Gala Ravi Doshi

Hospitality Committee: Vashali Jain Simmi Nandu Umang Lathia

Jain Networking Forum Committee: Shrenik Shah Neelam Savla

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Public Relations Committee: Juhi Hedge Virag Vora Manan Jobalia Registration Committee: Avish Jain Pujen Solanki Nilesh Dagli

Security Committee: Dharmi Shah Paras Savla Saejal Chatter

Social Committee: Monica Vora Mitesh Bhalani Rea Savla

Site Committee: Adit Shah Mihir Shah Mishi Jain Souvenir Committee: Kinari Shah Hetali Lodaya Pankti Gala

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Explaining Jainism in the 21st Century: Presenting the History and Ideals of Paryushan Parva By: Monica Vora The history and values of Jainism formed the beginning of Paryushana Parva hundreds of years ago. Overtime, the festival has changed due to modern conveniences but the meaning has stayed the same.

The origin of Paryushana cannot be dated back to an exact moment as it began emerging as a tradition when modern Jainism began developing around the 6th century BCE. The history of this festival dates back to the agricultural lifestyles of India, centuries ago. During this time, most individuals lived in modest and confined villages. Many regions of India can experience heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, and farmers and workers would often be compelled to refrain from their agricultural work at this time. The poor weather would make it challenging to travel on roads. The main principle in Jainism is Ahimsa, which means non-violence towards all living creatures. The added moisture caused an increase in the number of insects and bugs in the environment, making it extremely difficult to travel without harming them. During this time, Sadhus and Sadhvis tended to stay in their villages and spend their extra time celebrating their religion. The monsoon marked a period when these monks would focus on themselves internally by cleansing their souls and advancing their knowledge. Originally, Jain monks practiced this tradition during the full “Chatursma” time period which lasted 70 days. They would spend their days meditating and practicing vrats (acts of self-control). In today's age most followers have moved away from the small ancient villages of their ancestors yet Jain practices are still valued and practiced in modern society.

As life became more urbanized, Jains worldwide found it increasingly difficult to practice the main principles of Jainism to their fullest everyday. The word “Jainism” is derived from the word “conquer,” which refers to fighting against one’s passions and pleasures using self-restraint and control. The main principles of Jainism are non-violence, non-absolutism, and non-possessiveness. As the world became more advanced, lifestyles changed from simple to more complex. People moved away from their remote villages to cities where they would be presented with numerous temptations and added luxuries. Due to new conveniences, individuals found that the main doctrines of Jainism were beginning to fade away.

Thus, the religious ritual Jain monks practiced during Chatursma evolved into a festival that started being celebrated by Jain followers. This eight-day festival inspires Jains worldwide to remember the roots and philosophies of Jainism. Celebrating Paryushana also brings a social purpose as well. During the festival family and friends all come together for a cause.

Though the ritual of Paryushana pushes followers to abide by the main doctrines of Jainism, it specifically targets five required principles. These essentials separate and make Paryushana unique from other Jain holidays. The first principle is called Sadharmik Vatsalya, which means that all individuals should show love and gratitude not only to all Jains but to all living beings. This concept is often shown through actions that assist others. By conducting such actions, individuals can do their part and lead others on the proper pathway. The next principle touched upon is Ahimsa, also called Amari Pravatan, which means to be non-violent in all aspects of one's daily life. This includes thinking and speaking with pure intentions.

Third, is Atthama Taap, which asks followers to practice self-control by fasting for three days or eating simple tasteless foods. This is meant to strengthen one’s willpower as he is forced to face a bit of discomfort. Chaitya Paripati translates to pilgrimage to holy places. This principle should be completed by followers as it shows devotion and respect to the faith. Lastly, Kshamapana, means to ask for forgiveness from all the beings that may have suffered as a result of one’s actions. Jains believe strongly that it is important to forgive those who may have hurt us for their shortcomings and weaknesses. These five principles have provided the basis and foundation for this festival throughout history.

Jains follow a set of rules in order to fulfill the five target principles of Jainism. Sunlight is a natural disinfectant and thus the level of bacteria in the atmosphere is less during the daytime than at night; therefore, Jains avoid eating between dusk and dawn. Jains avoid root vegetables like onions and garlic, as in order to eat these vegetables, one must destroy the entire plant. By eating before sunset and avoiding vege-

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tables that grow underground, Jains practice Amari Pravatan as they are non-violent. During this holy period, monks and individuals spend their evenings at their local temples, as Chaitya Paripati is one of the main principles. However, since the underlying purpose of Paryushana is to show one’s self control, during the day they do not have to go to a place of worship for the ritual. They can simply pray and reflect in the peace of their own homes. Throughout history, the main goals of Paryushana have remained the same as those of the Thirthankars who started practicing this tradition. However, since the external environment has changed overtime the way individuals go about the festival is different. In the past, people would avoid their “greed for gold” or be more mindful of their water consumption. Now, in modern society, people practice Taap by avoiding modern conveniences such as cellphones, televisions, and laptops. These are just a few actions Jains are asked to follow in order to stay focused on the purpose of Paryushana.

Though the entire festival is dedicated to soul purification and self-searching, each of the eight days of the annual ritual has its own specific dedication. The first day of Paryushana is known as the day when individuals focus on clearing their minds of daily worldly thoughts. This day is important because it puts followers on the right step by clarifying their thoughts. The second day inspires people to donate to their local places of worship or to important worldwide causes. With each person conducting small acts of kindness, the world becomes a better place. The third day focuses on connecting the mind to the soul by practicing meditation for enlightenment. On the fourth day, Jains believe they receive well wishes and protection from the Goddess Laxmi by conducting a Puja and offering her sweets. The fifth day is also known as “The Day of the Kalpasutra.” This is the day when people celebrate the Mahavir’s birth by organizing a Boli (religious auctions) of the14 silver statues of the dreams of Mahavir’s mother, Trishla Devi, when she was pregnant with him. The money from the Boli is given and donated to the religious institution. The sixth and seventh days are the days of tolerance and endurance. Since many fast for the entire festival, these days are supposed to instill them with the strength to keep going on their spiritual journey.

The eighth and final day is titled, Samvatsari, which translates to the “Gate-way of Salvation," It is the holiest day of the entire Jain calendar and also International Forgiveness Day. On this day, Jains observe a unique custom, when they utter the words “Micchammi Dukkadam.” This day marks the start of the Jain New Year, with Jains striving to start on a clean slate. On Samvatsari, Shwetambar Jains also practice Pratikamana in the evening where they continuously pray for four hours. During this time period, they honor the Tirthankars and their Gurus. The rituals ends with a prayer called Moti Shanti, which hopes for global peace.

Overall, it is apparent that the religious holiday of Paryushana is highly important for Jain followers as many Jain beliefs are incorporated and woven through the festival. In early Jain history, individuals were unable to travel without harming living beings, which sparked the beginning of the festival. In modern times, many followers find themselves filled with many daily commitments which may cause them to drift away from their spirituality. The festival of Paryushana allows individuals to slow down and think about their righteousness. From researching this practice to visualizing it with my own eyes, I realized how important this festival is to followers since it only comes one a year. In a fast paced, highly technological world, I believe the need for Paryushana is greater. We are consistently wanting more and more. These historical Jain traditions used by the Tirthankars is a great way for individuals in today's world to rid of their bad karma and sins they accumulate over the year. This is very significant, as many religions do not end the year with a tradition such as this one. I look forward to seeing how this festival continues to flourish over the years and see how it develops over ongoing generations.

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National Dinners!

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“Who are we as Jains in the face of global crisis?

What is our role as a community? What can you DO?” Young Jains share insights from Parliament of the World’s Religions Conference held in Salt Lake City, UTAH Oct 15 – Oct 19, 2015 About two months ago, roughly 10,000 people from over 70 countries and 30 religious and spiritual traditions attended the sixth Parliament of the World’s Religions in Salt Lake City, Utah – a five-day interfaith conference including 7 plenaries and over 1,000 smaller workshops and panels. The Parliament, founded in 1893 in Chicago, is an attempt to create a global dialogue of faiths. The theme for this conference was “Reclaiming the Heart of Our Humanity” and it featured a long lineup of renowned scholars including Dr. Jane Goodall, Dr. Karen Armstrong, and Nobel Peace Laureate *Mairead Maguire.

The participants included 60+ members of the Jain faith, including the five of us – Nikhil Bumb, Neal Daftary, Parth Savla, Priti Shah, and Sonali Vakharia. As youth ambassadors of Jainism, we were incredibly humbled and enlightened by the experience. Coming into the Parliament, we did not know what to expect or what to take away, but we left feeling enriched and empowered.

The stated mission of the Council of the Parliament of the World’s Religions is “to cultivate harmony among the world's religious and spiritual communities and foster their engagement with the world and its guiding institutions in order to achieve a peaceful, just and sustainable world.” With so much hate and violence around the world, particularly in light of the recent events in Paris, Mali, and Beirut (to name just a few), it was very refreshing to attend the largest gathering for interfaith dialogue and collaborative efforts to protect the interests of mankind. Collectively, we have never seen so much compassion, love, and genuine openness for one another’s faith.

Parth Savla, Sonali Vakharia, Nikhil Bumb, Neal Daftary & Priti Shah

Having grown up as Jain Americans in the US, the five of us took some time to reflect and ask ourselves, “Individually, how do we as Jains apply Jain values in our day-to-day lives? Collectively, are we as a community actively expressing the relevance and application of Jain values as it relates to social and systemic issues?

We also asked ourselves what the Jain form of “activism” would look like, if any? As practitioners of Jain philosophy, what would our participation or response be to social movements (such as the Arab Spring of 2010, the Occupy Movement of 2011-2013, or the recent hate crime in San Bernardino, CA)?

Individually, many of us serve others in our own way on so many levels. However, there seems to be a void – why aren’t we all working together to serve others? Collectively, we could accomplish so much!

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Challenges We See: •

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As Jains we may be “too comfortable,” “misery-free,” and “complacent” with our lives. What motivation is this creating for us to do more? Many of us may also interpret the Kaal Chakra, which is a time cycle showing that our world is heading towards more and more misery, that the miseries that are occurring are bound to occur so we cannot change this.

As Jains, we have never experienced a major crisis. While Jains have existed for nearly 4,000 years, we have not recently experienced major crisis such as genocide, mass extinction, or political prejudice. The closest experience was the attaining of minority status in India.

Karma, an excuse for inaction. There tends to be a view among some conventional lines of thinking that those who experience suffering do so due to their own karma and so to “take a stand” against injustice is thwarting this unfolding.

Jainism is un-relatable to our lives. Some Jains may feel the limited scope of Jainism learned in homes or the technical, basic teachings learned in Jain centers/Jain conventions is inapplicable or unrelated to their everyday lives. While being a “practicing Jain” can foster becoming a “good person”, there is often lack of dialogue in how Jain principles can be implemented in business ethics, policy-making, animal farming to name a few.

Jains are not perceived as agents of change in recent times. Historically, Jain Tirthankars were not only spiritual visionaries, but social activists. They radically shifted social conventions such as promoting vegetarianism and stopping animal sacrifice in early Indian kingdoms, to standing up for land and environmental rights as Virchand Ragavji Gandhi addressed the latter when he represented Jainism at the first Parliament of World Religions Conference in 1893.

What We See Is Possible Bringing the Jain youth and young adult communities together in creating spaces for discussion, dialogue, and activism, which promote and embody non-violence, peace, compassion, and tolerance towards all living beings. Jains and the Jain communities are recognized as thoughtful, caring, agents of change on organizational and system levels. As youth ambassadors, we are calling for our generation to make that shift and “act locally, while thinking globally.” Below are some of our main takeaways from our collective Parliament experience as Jain youth and the call to action we would like for us all to consider taking on in our own lives: 1. Participation is about more than awareness. It needs action through involvement. As members of a minority faith that most people have never heard of, Jains often feel our role at these forums should be focused on building awareness. The Parliament wasn’t just about bringing people of different faiths and backgrounds together and learning. The real power of such a platform is about getting into action with that collaboration. This was emphasized throughout the Parliament.

• Obstacle to overcome: Jain sessions can be very technical, communicating the detailed principles, history, and scriptures of Jainism, with references to applying those aspects in our basic, everyday lives.

• Areas of concern: The Parliament highlighted five major themes – gender equality and women’s empowerment; income inequality and the wealth gap; climate change; war, violence, and hate; and emerging young leaders. At its core, Jainism is deeply integrated with these issues and can contribute immense learnings and solutions on a broader scale.

• What can you do? Broadening awareness is a first and important step at these events. In order to make meaningful impact while reinforcing Jain ideals, we would like to see Jains actively engaging and participating in the discussion on these various social issues. As advocates of nonviolence (ahimsa) and believers of equality among all sentient beings (anekantvad), it is our social responsibility to advance these issues and to be more engaged and connected in mainstream outlets. Let’s not just be aware! Let’s take action!

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2. As (future) leaders, we need to set aside our emotions and address problems objectively. In his address at the “War, Violence, and Hate” plenary, Dr. Tariq Ramadan, European Union advisor and Professor of Contemporary Islamic Studies at Oxford University, emphasized that if we really want to make headway against issues such as hate crimes, religious discrimination, violence, and war, we must remove emotions from the equation. Emotions cloud our judgment and prevent us from getting to a real solution.

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Obstacle to overcome: Jainism can be strict in its practice and it can be uncertain on how it can be applied to modern day society.

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Area of concern: Dr. Ramadan’s philosophy applies not just to issues like hate and violence, but across problems at the individual- and community-levels as well. It is more constructive to understand history of the systemic issues which breed violence rather than judging the individuals or “victims” of such systems.

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What can you do? Jainism is both a scientific and also practical religion that can adapt to changing societies without losing its core values. Anekantvad teaches us that everyone has a voice and something to contribute of value. We should remember and stress that objectivity in dealing with any and all issues.

3. Activism starts at the grassroots level, with you.

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Obstacle to overcome: As youth, how can we change the world for the better and contribute positively towards these movements?

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Area of concern: Parliament speakers addressed critical topics like climate change, income inequality, discrimination, wasteful consumption, war and terrorism. To hear these speakers was inspiring and electrifying, and at the same time intimidating and daunting.

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What can you do? Start with yourself. Mahatma Gandhi’s motto was: “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” In a panel on “What Would Gandhi Do? Moral Strategies for Sustainability, Peace, and Justice,” Fresno State Assistant Professor of Religious Studies Veena Howard noted, “the champion of non-violence and self-discipline put his faith in the common human being rather than the power of an empire.”

Change begins with us, not just by talking, but by doing and actively making changes in our own life. We can then be the change locally, stepping up at the community level to help lead change in a slightly broader audience, and eventually working our way up to larger scales.

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4. We need to show up and set an example by our deeds, not just our creed. It’s easy for us to sit ` back, comment, and complain about these platforms or similar events.

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Obstacle to overcome: There may be a generational and cultural gap between the ascetic teachers and newer Jain population. While the Saminiji, Maharaj, Sadhu, and Sadhvi help us connect spiritually and help us expose us to the deeper thoughts of Jainism, in times, it may be hard to understand how this can relate to our everyday lives. This concern seemed to be expressed at the Parliament as well as similar conventions.

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Area of concern: As fewer and fewer Jains understand the connection between the learning from the ascetics (and overall Jain expert teachings) to modern day society, Jainism may dissipate and disappear in future generations. Jainism has valuable scientific and practical teachings to give to society so it would be disheartening to lose this.

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What can you do? We must create a new paradigm, using the resources presently available that will engage and generate interest on the surface level. We need to find a way to bridge this gap by using the principles they have taught us and apply it not just internally, but externally as well.

The burden is also on us. If we don’t vocalize our opinions and perspectives, we can’t expect for them to be known. Often we assume someone else will raise the issue, that it isn’t “our place,” or that we won’t be heard. Part of the problem may also be a misunderstanding on how to interpret Jainism and apply our principles to issues in our daily lives, or even broader social issues.

Let’s avoid this complacency! It’s likely that if you are thinking about these topics, so is someone else. Use the resources presently available to you to express how Jainism impacts your daily life. Your actions will create a new paradigm that will engage and generate interest amongst others that can then stimulate wider action and change.

After five days immersed in a swirl of speakers, music, art and dance from religious traditions across the world, we emerged relaxed and rejuvenated. Ultimately, the Parliament taught us that religion can be an incredibly positive force in promoting change and bringing peace to the world. We live in a global village and we should strive to stay open-minded and to live with mutual respect, harmony, and optimism. At the same time, we have a responsibility to take an active stance in applying the principles of our own faith and embracing the value and practice of interfaith education and dialogue to create meaningful spaces for activism.

Let us practice peace AND action, starting at the individual level thereby influencing communities.

Participating in the Parliament renewed our spirits and sparked a fire, deep within our souls, to take a stand against these very issues that promote injustice and inequality. Sharing our learnings from the Parliament was the first step. Stay tuned for opportunities to join conversations on meaningful topics. We look forward to having your join us!

-Emergent Young Leaders Team

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Pinki’s Palate

www.pinkispalate.wordpress.com

+

A modern taste of pure Jain cooking

Created by: Priyanka Shah

All recipes on Pinki’s palate are 100% Jain vegetarian & vegan-designed with your health in mind.

A Sports Medicine graduate with a heart for healthful, compassionate cooking and improving lifestyles through exercise and Jain diet around the world.

The Jain diet is based on nonviolence.

Followers do not eat meat, fish, eggs, root vegetables, or animal ingredients. The goal: limit violence towards all living things, including plants.

www.pinkispalate.wordpress.com This blog was created to inspire not only Jains but anyone interested in pursuing a compassionate, healthy, and fit lifestyle through the Jain diet and exercise. Over the years, I have noticed the lack of resources for easy, nutritious pure Jain recipes. Most store bought products contain non-Jain ingredients like root vegetables or animal bi-products—not to mention plenty of preservatives and unhealthy additives. Many of us have also experienced that as we get older, our lives only seem to get busier.

Pinki’s Palate is your source for recipes that incorporate wholesome nutritional value, simple instructions, and minimum time. Is there a dish you really love and want to know how to turn Jain friendly? If so, leave a comment on the blog or send me a message to share what you want to see on Pinki’s Palate!

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| Date Thai Vegan CoconutIssue Curry

Lorem Ipsum Roasted

Red Pepper Fusilli with Almond Crusted Tofu

Ingredients for Almond Crusted Tofu: ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

1 block extra-firm tofu 1 cup raw almonds ½ tsp salt & ground black pepper, to taste ½ tsp paprika &1 tsp Italian seasoning 2 tsp soy sauce &1 tsp lemon juice ½ cup water olive oil oat flour, for dusting 2 tbsp flax meal + 4 tbsp water, mixed

Almond Crusted Tofu: Drain and press tofu. Slice extra firm into triangle pieces.

Marinade tofu slices in a shallow dish with soy sauce, lemon juice, and water for 1 hour. Use a food processor to grind raw almonds into tiny crumbly, pieces. Fold in spices, seasonings, salt and freshly ground black pepper. Remove marinated tofu and dab off any excess. Quickly dust in flour dip in a dish of flax-meal water mixture, and coat with almond crumbs. Add each coated piece to a heated skillet and drizzle olive oil around each piece. Cook both sides for 2 minutes each until lightly browned.

Makes 5 servings Ingredients: ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

2 cups chopped mixed bell peppers 2 cups broccoli 1.5 cup yellow corn firm tofu cubes (optional) 1 can coconut milk 2 green chili’s (Serrano or Thai) juice from half of lemon freshly ground sea salt and black pepper green chili paste, optional handful of chopped fresh cilantro coconut oil

Heat 1-2 tsp coconut oil in a large pan. Add broccoli and tofu to the pan and cook for 5 minutes. Next add corn and bell pepper, cook for 5 more minutes. Meanwhile, blend 2 sliced green chills with 1 can of coconut milk + 1/2 cup water. Add chili coconut milk to the vegetables, salt, and pepper. Mix in lemon juice. Let the curry simmer for 10 minutes. Top off the curry with cilantro. Serve over basmati rice, wild rice, or Japanese/Thai rice or alongside flaky paratha or naan.

Roasted Red Pepper Fusilli Ingredients: ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

2-3 red bell peppers (medium-large) salt and ground black pepper, to taste Pinch of red chili flakes or red chili powder 1 cup unsweetened original almond milk 2 tbsp nutritional yeast 1.5 tbsp cornstarch Fresh basil 1 packaged fusilli pasta, cooked

Slice red peppers into large pieces. Roast up the pepper slices until soft, charred, and fragrant. Toss the pepper slices into a ziplock and seal for 5-10 minutes to let the peppers sweat. Remove peppers and use a plastic knife to scrape off the blackened skin. Place peppers, salt, pepper, red chili flakes, nutritional yeast, cornstarch, and almond milk in a high-speed blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting the seasonings as needed. Mix with pasta!

Dolor Sit Amet

For more delicious recipes, please visit : www.pinkispalate.wordpress.com Follow by email to receive notification of new recipe posts! www.facebook.com/pinkispalate For collaborations, publication, or other inquiries, please contact Priyanka at: pinkispalate@gmail.com

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YJA Retreats Are Here!

Retreat Season is almost here! Our Regional Coordinators have been hard at work planning six retreats, one in each region. With delicious food, engaging sessions, and thrilling games they are all events too great to miss. Registration is open for the Southeast and West Retreats— spots are limited so sign up while you can!

West Retreat: Registration Open!

January 29th - January 31st Southeast Retreat: Registration Open!

February 5th - February 7th Mid-Atlantic Poconos Retreat: February 13th - February 15th Northeast Retreat: February 26th - February 28th South Retreat: March 11th - March 13th Midwest Retreat: March 11th - March 13th

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Please Make a Contribution to YJA Today to Pass Jain Principles & Practices onto the Next Generation of Youth!

Jai Jinendra! The Executive Board for Young Jains of America (YJA) plans to be very active in bringing Jain principles to youth across the country. We would like to take this opportunity to briefly discuss our current projects and how they will make a difference to the YJA community: § § § § §

Monthly Webinars – Educate and raise awareness about Jain principles and ideals and address youth problems, difficulties, and concerns.

Website Maintenance – Continue to develop a professional website for Jain youth and create a forum to share Jain principles and values.

Regional Retreats – Weekend retreats held in each region to instill a sense of religious and cultural pride among Jain youth.

Community Volunteering – Organize volunteering events, such as Relay for Life and assistance at soup kitchens to allow youth to participate in charitable community activities.

National Dinners – Encourage the development of friendships with Jain youth in their local cities, while conversing about real-life topics relating to Jainism over a delicious meal.

With the support of donors like you, YJA has grown to be the largest Jain youth organization in the world.

For the YJA Executive Board, it is an honor to be a part of a group that motivates and inspires countless lives.

Please consider supporting our efforts with a personal contribution to YJA today. A contribution of any amount will provide tremendous support to instill a sense of among youth about their Jain heritage. The ultimate goal of the YJA Executive Board is to prepare today's Jain youth to become tomorrow's Jain leaders.

Not only do we appreciate your donations, but the fundraising team would like to hear from you! Please email fundraising@yja.org with your comments or suggestions for improvement by YJA. If you have any questions regarding Young Minds, please e-mail youngminds@yja.org.

We thank you for your wonderful contribution!

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Young Jains of America Contribution Form *You can make a contribution by credit or debit card at https://jaina.siteym.com/donations/donate.asp?id=3410* Full Name: ___________________________________________________________ Company Name (Optional): ___________________________________________________________ Address: _______________________________ City: ____________ ST: ____ Zip: ___________ Daytime Phone: (______)______________

Evening Phone: (______)_____________________

Email Address: __________________________ Please make your check payable to JAINA, include ‘Young Jains of America’ in the memo line, and mail it to: Young Jains of America c/o Adit Shah 3944 50th Avenue Sunnyside, NY 11104

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Young Jains of America

December 2014

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Young Jains of America Est. 1991