SSGA-VISION
Singh Sabha Gurdwara of Austin’s has a vision to create a unified community that practices the Sikh way of life and engages in the spiritual and moral upliftment of its members.
“Deep within the self is the Light of God. It radiates through out the expanse of his creation. Through the Guru’s teachings, the darkness of spiritual ignorance is dispelled, as one’s light merges into the supreme light.”
— Guru Amar Das, Majh,pg. 126
Way of Life
Origins & Development
Introduction
Philosophy & Scriptures
Resources
Sikhism, Religion of the Sikh People
“Deep within the self is the Light of God. It radiates through out the expanse of his creation. Through the Guru’s teachings, the darkness of spiritual ignorance is dispelled, as one’s light merges into the supreme light.”
— Guru Amar Das, Majh,pg. 126
Welcome to Singh Sabha Gurudwara
The Singh Sabha Gurdwara of Austin* represents the work and aspirations of the larger sangat around Austin, Texas. The Gurdwara has been holding continuous regular Gurdwara Diwans since 1995 in various rented spaces. The Gurdwara was formally incorporated as 501(c)(3) organization in 2003.
Who is a Sikh?
The word ‘Sikh’ in the Punjabi language means ‘disciple’, Sikhs are the disciples of God who follow the writings and teachings of the Ten Sikh Gurus. The wisdom of these teachings in Sri Guru Granth Sahib are practical and universal in their appeal to all mankind.
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Kids Classes
Saturday of every month
Punjabi classes are held on the first Saturday of every month, before the Diwan at the Presbyterian Church, according to the following schedule:
Gurmat Class: 10:30AM-11:15 AM Gurmukhi Class: 11:15 AM-12:00 PM
Frequently Asked Question
Regular Kirtan Diwan is held on the first Saturday of every month at the Peace Lutheran Church. On special occasions additional programs are arranged.
Yes we do. Generally the Gurpurabs are included in the monthly Diwans. Occasionally, at the request of the majority of the Sangat we celebrate Gurpurabs on other days as well.
The program begins with children and Sangat Kirtan from 11:00 to 11:30 AM; followed by Kirtan, Ardas, and Hukam Nama from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM. Services are wrapped-up with Langar. Monthly details are posted on the Diwans page.
Before entering the gurdwara hall, please remove your shoes, wash your hands and cover your head with a scarf (for those who do not wear a turban). Walk up to the Guru Granth Sahib (our holy scriptures), pay your respects, and sit down on the floor on the appropriate side of the hall.
Sewa is one of the hallmarks of Sikhism. The members of the congregation perform preparation, conduct, and wrap up of the Kirtan Diwans. You may participate in any aspect of the preparation, conduct, and wrap-up of the services. Such as:
- Set-Up: Arrive at 10:30 AM and assist with the set-up of the hall.
- Langar Preparation: Contact Langar Coordinator to find out what item and how much of it can you bring to the gurdwara. For more details go to the Langar page.
- Langar Serving: To help with the serving, go to the team in the kitchen. They will guide you.
- Wrap-Up: After the services you can help with the clean up and restore the hall back to its original state.
Yes, you and your family can sponsor the Kirtan. The Ragis’ fee for their services is $250 and we pay $50 for the church hall lease. More than one family can co-sponsor the Kirtan and share the expenses. All donations are tax-exempt. Additional responsibilities include help for the set-up and preparing breakfast for the invited Ragis.
At this time we do not have a formal program. Contact Children’s program coordinator via the Teacher email address for more details.
At this time we use several methods to teach and learn Sikhi. During the Kirtan Diwan, Shabad and Gurujis’ history “katha” is performed by the Ragis. The children learn by researching, preparing and presenting speeches for Gurpurabs. Finally, the children are invited to participate in the annual national competition held by the Shri Hemkunt Foundation.
Contact the Secretary or the Treasurer to become a member. The annual membership fee is $10 per adult and $5 for a Senior Citizen. Students’ membership is free.
The gurdwara is held at the Peace Lutheran Church . The Kirtan Diwan notification is generally emailed a week before the program. Details (and changes, if any) are included in the email.
The Singh Sabha gurdwara and the Sangat members participate in several ways. Past examples include participation in multiple inter-religious efforts including membership in Austin Area Interreligious Ministries (AAIM) fund-raising, Hands-on-Housing home repair for the poor in East Austin, and Thanksgiving events. Donation of over 100 blankets and warm socks in the cold months to Austin SafePlace for women and children, and the Austin Homeless Shelter. Finally, presentation for education and public relations towards understanding of our Sikh Community, for the Austin community at large, partnering with the Austin Police Dept., AAIM, and a special educational gurdwara for same. Brochures may be printed for sharing with your friends, neighbors, and colleagues at work.
FAQ
Regular Kirtan Diwan is held on the first Saturday of every month at the Peace Lutheran Church. On special occasions additional programs are arranged.
Yes we do. Generally the Gurpurabs are included in the monthly Diwans. Occasionally, at the request of the majority of the Sangat we celebrate Gurpurabs on other days as well.
The program begins with children and Sangat Kirtan from 11:00 to 11:30 AM; followed by Kirtan, Ardas, and Hukam Nama from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM. Services are wrapped-up with Langar. Monthly details are posted on the Diwans page.
Before entering the gurdwara hall, please remove your shoes, wash your hands and cover your head with a scarf (for those who do not wear a turban). Walk up to the Guru Granth Sahib (our holy scriptures), pay your respects, and sit down on the floor on the appropriate side of the hall.
Sewa is one of the hallmarks of Sikhism. The members of the congregation perform preparation, conduct, and wrap up of the Kirtan Diwans. You may participate in any aspect of the preparation, conduct, and wrap-up of the services. Such as:
- Set-Up: Arrive at 10:30 AM and assist with the set-up of the hall.
- Langar Preparation: Contact Langar Coordinator to find out what item and how much of it can you bring to the gurdwara. For more details go to the Langar page.
- Langar Serving: To help with the serving, go to the team in the kitchen. They will guide you.
- Wrap-Up: After the services you can help with the clean up and restore the hall back to its original state.
Yes, you and your family can sponsor the Kirtan. The Ragis’ fee for their services is $250 and we pay $50 for the church hall lease. More than one family can co-sponsor the Kirtan and share the expenses. All donations are tax-exempt. Additional responsibilities include help for the set-up and preparing breakfast for the invited Ragis.
At this time we do not have a formal program. Contact Children’s program coordinator via the Teacher email address for more details.
At this time we use several methods to teach and learn Sikhi. During the Kirtan Diwan, Shabad and Gurujis’ history “katha” is performed by the Ragis. The children learn by researching, preparing and presenting speeches for Gurpurabs. Finally, the children are invited to participate in the annual national competition held by the Shri Hemkunt Foundation.
Contact the Secretary or the Treasurer to become a member. The annual membership fee is $10 per adult and $5 for a Senior Citizen. Students’ membership is free.
The gurdwara is held at the Peace Lutheran Church . The Kirtan Diwan notification is generally emailed a week before the program. Details (and changes, if any) are included in the email.
The Singh Sabha gurdwara and the Sangat members participate in several ways. Past examples include participation in multiple inter-religious efforts including membership in Austin Area Interreligious Ministries (AAIM) fund-raising, Hands-on-Housing home repair for the poor in East Austin, and Thanksgiving events. Donation of over 100 blankets and warm socks in the cold months to Austin SafePlace for women and children, and the Austin Homeless Shelter. Finally, presentation for education and public relations towards understanding of our Sikh Community, for the Austin community at large, partnering with the Austin Police Dept., AAIM, and a special educational gurdwara for same. Brochures may be printed for sharing with your friends, neighbors, and colleagues at work.