By Atma Tattva Das
ISKCON Lisbon, a community with deep roots in the Portuguese capital, is steadily growing, with a strong influx of young people. Many are drawn by the dynamic programs that blend traditional Krishna Conscious practices with modern outreach methods. But facing the potential loss of its current space and the absence of a permanent temple for over four decades, the dynamic community is now appealing to the international Krishna Conscious community for help.
As temple president Sundarananda Das explained, “We are now at a pivotal moment. Without securing a permanent home, we risk losing the momentum we’ve worked so hard to rebuild post-COVID.”
This situation isn’t new for ISKCON Lisbon. Their journey since the 1970s has been fraught with challenges, but their resilience has allowed them to continue flourishing. From renting various spaces, including a short stint where the altar was housed in the back of Sundarananda’s car, to operating a successful temple restaurant in the 1990s, the community has faced financial and structural setbacks. Now, more than ever, they are seeking support to ensure they can finally secure a permanent facility and continue their mission of spreading Krishna Consciousness in Lisbon.
The COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted ISKCON Lisbon, leading to the closure of their popular restaurant and function space, which had been integral to both their spiritual outreach and financial stability. This period also brought about a shift in leadership, with Sundarananda and his wife Nikunja-Vilasini moving back to Lisbon to help save the project from financial ruin.
Read more: https://iskconnews.org/iskcon-lisbon-faces-new-challenge-as-it-continues-to-expand-outreach/
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