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Beauty is something that conquers without a sword, that holds
without hands, that is more tender than the petals of a flower and stronger than anything in the
world. The Prophet has said, ‘God is Beauty and loves what is beautiful.’
Hazrat Inayat Khan |
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We invite you to join us for a weekend of sacred song, dance, joy and
blessings. The Toronto Centre of the Sufi Order International is pleased to welcome back Amir
O’Loughlin from Vancouver. Those fortunate enough to have participated in Amir’s very
successful weekend here in October 2005 will remember his clarity, inspiration and assurance as he
led us through transformational practices that enriched our hearts and souls. This spring he
returns with a new program to help unfold our sensitivity to the blessings of life, and to help
draw us further on the mystic path to Unity.
During this weekend we will share Sufi practices, music, dance,
sacred chant (sema/zikr) and teachings which lead us to live life in a way that brings blessings,
subtle as well as powerful, to ourselves and those around us. Whether you are new to the Sufi
tradition or not, our time together promises to bring joy, peace and practical guidance for
bringing spirituality and beauty into every aspect of our lives.
On Friday evening, 8-10pm, Amir will lead us in the
Dances of Universal Peace. Those wishing to attend
only the Dances event, rather than the whole weekend, are welcome.
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Amir O’Loughlin is a teacher of the Sufi path, a
musician, and psychotherapist. He has been a guide and leader in the Sufi Order
International for over 25 years, and currently is its National Representative in Canada.
Amir’s music and recordings of Sufi mystical poetry have garnered much praise in both
North America and Europe, and can be heard on his
CD “Merhaba.” |
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About The Sufi Order International
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The Sufi Order was founded by Hazrat Inayat Khan (1882-1927),
continued by his son Pir Vilayat Inayat Khan, and is currently led by his grandson, Pir Zia Inayat
Khan. The Sufi Order International evolved from the universal spiritual tradition of the Chisti
Sufi lineage. Hazrat Inayat Khan, whose teacher gave him the task to “unite East with West in
the harmony of your music,” communicated the fundamental metaphysics and practices of the
ancient Sufis to the people of the West. Sufism has been called “the religion of the
heart.” It can also be understood as a path for mental and spiritual transformation through
the transcendent wisdom of Love, Harmony, and Beauty, and the realization of unity in God.
The Sufi Order welcomes all who seek to deepen their connection to
God, regardless of religious denomination.
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Where We’ll Meet
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The event will be held at the Feldenkrais Center in downtown
Toronto (390 Dupont Street, Suite 201). This bright and airy space features plants,
skylights, and exhibited art. The Centre is at the corner of Dupont St. and Brunswick Ave.,
two blocks west of the Dupont subway station, about halfway between Spadina and
Bathurst.
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The Dances of Universal Peace
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The Dances
of Universal Peace were founded by Samuel L. Lewis, a Sufi teacher and Rinzai Zen
Master, who also studied deeply in the mystical traditions of Hinduism, Judaism, and
Christianity. The Dances use simple music, lyrics, and movements to touch the spiritual
essence within ourselves and others.
If you wish to attend only the Dances of Universal Peace,
held Friday evening, we would still appreciate if you would register in advance. If you
are attending the full weekend event the Dances are included in the cost. The Dance
evening alone is $15.
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Registration
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registering before March 28th, and $150 after ($110 or $135 if you are paying in U.S. dollars).
Attending only the Dances of Universal Peace evening is $15. A registration form is attached to the
event's brochure. |
Schedule
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- Friday: 8-10pm (Dances
of Universal Peace)
- Saturday: 1-5pm and
7-10pm
- Sunday: 10-1pm and
2:30-5pm.
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Additional Information
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Registrants will receive additional information before the event,
including detailed driving instructions and any recommended items to bring (e.g. a sitting pillow).
Please indicate on the
registration form whether you
are able to provide or are seeking carpooling. We anticipate that most people will arrive by public
transit. We will make every effort to fulfill requests for billeting. We will be providing only
snacks at the event, but there are diverse restaurants in the area with reasonably priced
menus
If you have any special needs, such as diet, physical ability, or
health-related issues, then it is necessary for you to let us know as early as possible so that we
can seek suitable supporting arrangements.
For more information, please contact Amina Berketa
<janetberketa@gmail.com> or 416-782-6612.
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Other Materials
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