Our website and our email list contain information and announcements about our activities as well as other events not officially sponsored by the Sufi Healing Circle of Atlanta, but which may be of interest to our participants and friends. These announcements may include events related to Sufi teachers, the Dances of Universal Peace, or non-Sufi spiritual groups. Inclusion of these announcements here does not necessarily imply endorsement by the Sufi Healing Circle of Atlanta or by the Sufi Order International.
A message from Jacob Kabb ~
The Sufi Order Center in Atlanta offers classes and information for those individuals interested in spiritual transformation. It is an esoteric school with an ancient lineage and a relatively small but active membership locally. It is a part of the Sufi Order
International, which has its headquarters in New Lebanon, New York.
The school was founded by Hazrat Inayat Khan in the early part of the 20th century and is presently being directed by Pir Zia Inayat Khan. Pir Vilayat, who passed away in 2004, provided outstanding leadership over the years. His influence has encouraged many to commit themselves to illumination and liberation while honoring their earthly responsibilities. Through his guidance and tutelage a sizeable group of senior teachers has grown and are developing curriculum and teaching programs, which are creatively addressing the challenges of contemporary life in America.
Pir Vilayat's son and successor, Pir Zia, has already surprised many with his wisdom and presence. His leadership in North America is already taking shape and he has settled with his family at the Abode community in upper New York state.
The Sufi Order is not simply classes and events. Besides the activities, opportunities are offered for deepening relationships, for connectivity and community. Personal guidance is available and private retreats can be arranged. A real attempt is being made for relevance, for genuine spiritual unfoldment and awakening, for renewal and for learning to respect each and every person for their unique and special gifts. The Center offers many levels of possible involvement, from simple attendance at a Center sponsored social event to immersion in a daily spiritual practice, which touches every aspect of one's existence.
Sufis can be hard to pin down when asked who they are and what is their path. Like mystics from other traditions, Sufis are attracted to non-linear teaching methods. Often, stories are used rather than essays, lectures or sermons. Intuition is valued a great deal and direct experience is the preferred teacher and ideal.
There is no dogma in the Sufi way. It is heart-centered and Universal in its approach. Those who are attracted to the Sufis come from many backgrounds an are drawn to a simple mysticism that emphasizes Unity, wholeness, and the integration of all aspects of life. While each student is granted a great deal of freedom to pursue their life purpose, each in their own way contributes to creating a more beautiful world with beautiful people, honoring God within and the God beyond.
Thank you --
Jacob Kabb, Representative, Sufi Order International
Please Note: Jacob Kabb is currently in Ohio, recovering from his recent illness.
Questions about the Sufi Order of Atlanta should be directed to our SOI Atlanta Representative,Shekinah Cynthia Daniel, 678-768-9512 or cynthia@heartandwings.com
What is a Sufi?
To be at ease with God. To be like an infant in God's bosom. To be a child of the moment. To breathe well. These are some of the answers that the Sufis have given to the question, "What does it mean to be a Sufi?"
-- Pir Zia Inayat Khan
The Sufi Healing Circle of Atlanta
is a group that meets monthly to participate in the Sufi Healing Circle and to share teachings and practices that are in consonance with the Message of Hazrat Inayat Khan.
Our Circle is open to all. We are an informal group of friends, some of whom are involved in various Sufi-related organizations (the Sufi Healing Order; the Raphaelite Work; the Sufi Order International; the Sufi Ruhaniat International; Dances of Universal Peace; Universal Awakening) or with no Sufi affiliation at all.
The Circle is usually facilitated by Isa Donnie Ray, Hamza Darrell Grizzle, Shekinah Cynthia Daniel, Jacob Kabb, or Elizabeth Leila L'Abate, who are ordained Conductors in the Sufi Healing Order. Shekinah, Jacob, and Hamza, as well as Muhasaba Molly Wender and Angela Tafari, are also ordained Cherags (ministers) in the Sufi Order International, and they will occasionally conduct the Service of Universal Worship at our gatherings. Shekinah and Jacob are the Atlanta Representatives of the Sufi Order International.
