Over the past decade, New Vrindaban has grown rapidly, with a 36% increase in residents each year. To meet this demand, the community has built 10 new apartments and 5 cabins, bringing the temple’s total to 48 apartments. Additionally, 50 plots of land are being developed for devotees to buy and build homes. The growing number of young families in the community has created a need for enhanced support in fostering a Krishna-conscious lifestyle for children and parents.
Recently, ISKCON News interviewed New Vrindaban Temple President Jaya Krsna Das to learn more about their response to this growth.
IN: New Vrindaban is hiring a full-time Youth and Family Minister, which seems to be a first for an ISKCON temple in North America. What inspired this initiative?
JKD: Currently, 31 young families with 48 children under 16 live in New Vrindaban. At a recent meeting, families expressed the need for more support beyond the existing school, “Gopal’s Garden.” Parents asked for regular activities for children and opportunities to connect with other parents. Reflecting on the past, we realized many children of early residents left the community. To avoid this trend, we’re focusing on engaging children and youth more actively, similar to how the Amish involve their younger generation.
We’ve also started drafting a list of 46 potential jobs within New Vrindaban to show young devotees long-term opportunities here, including positions like HVAC technicians, cooks, accountants, and cow caregivers.
IN: What will the Youth and Family Minister do?
JKD: The minister will focus on nurturing children and youth while supporting families in their spiritual lives. This includes planning activities, mentoring, organizing events, and creating separate programs for kids during festivals, allowing parents to participate in the festival activities or focus on their service. For more details, see the position description.
IN: Is further growth expected in New Vrindaban?
JKD: Yes, many families have expressed interest in relocating since COVID-19. Recently, two families joined the community, and two more are planning to move soon. However, housing is a challenge. Leaders hope current residents will purchase land, build a house to free up apartments for new arrivals. A new lodge and an assisted living facility are also in the works to serve pilgrims and elders.
IN: Tens of thousands of visitors come to New Vrindaban each year. Will there be programs for children during festivals and summer?
JKD: Yes, the minister will organize weekend programs for resident and visiting children. New Vrindaban recently introduced youth gatherings alongside kids’ camps, which have been a hit. These allow young adults to connect, serve, and discuss life’s challenges independently of their parents.
IN: How has the community reacted to the new position?
JKD: Families are excited and see it as long overdue. Decades ago, one of Prabhupada’s disciples suggested creating this role, and residents are thrilled it’s finally happening.
IN: What else should readers know about New Vrindaban?
JKD: In 2024, around 68,000 visitors came to New Vrindaban. We aim to engage them in spiritual activities like seva opportunities, parikramas, yoga sessions, Krishna storytelling, film screenings, observing cow milking, and the Swan Boat Festival every Saturday in summer. A new lodge, set to open in 2027, will help accommodate growing visitor numbers.
To learn more about the Youth and Family Minister position click here or explore what New Vrindaban offers, by visiting their website or following them on Facebookand Instagram.
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