The Sufi Way of Beauty Bringing Inspiration, Harmony and Blessing into Everyday Life April 20-22, 2007 -- Toronto, Ontario 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 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. Amir O'Loughlin is a teacher of the Sufi path, a musician and a 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." About The Sufi Order International 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. Sufi Order, Toronto Centre Sufi Order International Where We'll Meet The event will be held at the Feldenkrais Centre 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. The Dances of Universal Peace 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. Additional Information Registrants will receive additional information before the event, including a schedule, 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 or 416-782-6612. The "Sufi Way of Beauty" web site is at . ________________________________________ Registration Form The Sufi Way of Beauty April 20-22, 2007 Name ______________________________ Street ______________________________ City ______________________________ Province/State ______________________________ Postal/ZIP code ______________________________ Phone ______________________________ Email ______________________________ [ ] I am ONLY attending the Dances of Universal Peace ($15) [ ] I am registering at the early-bird rate (before March 28th). [ ] I can offer carpooling. [ ] I am seeking a ride. [ ] I (need / can provide) billeting. [ ] I can come early Friday to help set up. [ ] I can stay Sunday afternoon to help clean up. [ ] I have special needs (diet, health, etc.), as described below: ________________________________________ ________________________________________ ________________________________________ Please enclose a check made out to "Neil Rothenberg" for $125 (Canadian dollars) if submitted before March 28th, or $150 afterward ($110/$135 in U.S. dollars). Please send this completed registration form and payment to: Amina Berketa 1646 Bathurst Ave. #7 Toronto, ON M5P 3J7 Canada