The Pluralism Project at Harvard University

Description

The New England Sikh Study Circle, now also known as Milford Gurdwara, was founded in 1968 by Sikh families in the New England area as a place to gather for prayers and to see other members of the community. In 1990, the community purchased the present building, a former Kingdom Hall. Its facilities include a meeting hall, classrooms, library, and a large dining area with a complete industrial kitchen for preparation of the community meals. The congregation is primarily composed of Punjabi Sikhs and many other devotees, and most prayers and lectures are delivered in Punjabi. As per Sikh tenets, any member of the congregation can lead the prayers, including the children. There is usually time reserved for lectures and talks, which are both spiritual and political.

The Sunday program is an all-day event including the reading and singing of prayers from the Guru Granth Sahib and a community meal consisting of simple Punjabi dishes. All are welcome, and no donations are required. Loose and comfortable clothing are advisable because people sit on the floor. Everyone must cover their heads upon entering the Gurdwara. Men and women sit on opposite sides of the hall during the prayers, but families eat together at the community meal. After the meal, children play outside in the meeting hall, while adults gather to socialize. Each month, the community publishes a one-page bulletin.

Activities and Schedule

Sunday Kirtan: 10:30 A.M.-2:00 P.M. Monthly programs are available by mail or email on request. Programs can also be downloaded from the website.