“What is the
Sikh Dharma Ministry?”
“The Sikh Dharma Ministry is a collective network of presence in the world, sent by the Guru to answer the prayers of those who want to remember.” S. Guru Amrit Kaur Khalsa, Secretary General
The Sikh Dharma Ministry is made up of a diversified group of people whose collective talents and efforts form a rich body of resources that are available to serve our communities and the world. Their purpose, in part, is “to spread the Guru’s Word and serve the spiritual needs of humankind.” (Victory and Virtue, 1995, p. 4)
The Ministry is made up of individuals who are not only living as Sikhs, but are also willing to take responsibility for inspiring, guiding, teaching, serving, counseling, and leading others to the best of their ability - with reverence and humility. Becoming a Minister is the destiny of individual souls who have unique talents and gifts to contribute toward the greater good of the Dharma and the Sadh Sangat.
Sikh Dharma Ministers legally officiate at formal ceremonies and minister to those in need of counseling, consoling, and spiritual support in various ways. In the great moments of human life, whether it is a marriage, death, crisis, or celebration, Ministers bring a blessing and a sense of Presence that may not be obvious, but is certainly felt.
Unlike Ministers of other faiths, who have a single congregation to serve and are supported by that group, Sikh Dharma Ministers selflessly serve whenever and wherever they are needed, in many interfaith congregations, with the gifts God has given them. This seva, selfless service, whether it is serving the Gurdwara [house of worship] or inspiring others to live consciously, is a self-initiated form of leadership and contribution. With Guru as their touchstone, ideally, a Minister is the embodiment of Cherdi Kala, “keeping up in high spirits” through opposition, difficulties, pleasure, and pain - and through all tests of time and space.
Seek to know who the Ministers are in your community. Often, out of devotion and humility, these individuals are not readily identifiable. Many quietly serve in a variety of capacities without public recognition while some are known because God wants them to be so. However, all are worth getting to know and turning to as light bearers in darkness and guides along the path. You will find resources for many of your needs. It is time to use this rich reservoir of talent and consciousness. Ask and you shall receive -- to the best of a Minister’s ability.
A current way of benefiting from the knowledge and guidance of some of our gifted Ministers is to take advantage of the bridge line courses being taught by them. For more information please contact Gurunater Kaur at: [email protected]. or call (703) 435-7454. May the Ministry serve you in grace, consciousness, devotion, and reverence, and may God and Guru guide all of us on.