Jain Sangh of New England

The Jain Sangh of New England (JSNE) is a dedicated spiritual and cultural center in Burlington, Massachusetts, serving the Jain community throughout the region. It was founded in 2000 to promote traditional Svetambar Jain practices and provide a space for worship, learning, and community engagement. The derasar (temple) features a consecrated marble murti of Tirthankara Mahavira and other spiritual figures, serving as a beacon of faith for its members.

Key features

Spiritual life

Daily prayers and rituals: The Sangh offers daily Arthi and Mangal Divo flame-offering rites, with volunteers leading the rituals.

Puja ceremonies: Special services like the Mahavira Puja Mandal are conducted monthly to commemorate the life and teachings of Tirthankara Mahavira.

Festival celebrations: The center celebrates all major Jain holidays, including Paryushana Parva, Mahavira Jayanti, Ayambil Oli, and Diwali.
Education and learning

Pathshala (religious school): JSNE runs a monthly Sunday school for children and adults to learn about Jain philosophy, principles, and history.

Scholar lectures: The temple hosts visiting Jain scholars who deliver lectures and lead religious discussions (swadhyay), often in Gujarati.
Community and culture

Social gatherings: The Sangh organizes community events like an annual picnic, fostering social connections among members.

Shared meals: Activities and services are often followed by communal Jain vegetarian meals, aligning with the principle of non-violence.

Welcoming atmosphere: The temple is open to visitors, though the website advises confirming event timings.

Guiding philosophy

Focus on core principles: 

The organization emphasizes the Jain ethical principles, particularly Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truthfulness), and Aparigraha (non-possession), and strives to live and breathe "Live and Let Live".
Spiritual progress: The Sangh supports its community in the lifelong pursuit of spiritual liberation (Moksha) through self-discipline and reflection.