ISKCON Europe Upholds Ban on Lokanath
May 19, 2023
Euro RGB Statement Regarding Lokanath Swami Status in Europe
Having received feedback and requests from some members of our European devotee community, the Euro RGB body set forth to review and discuss the previous resolution made regarding Lokanath Swami (22/09-03). To this end, the Euro RGB body spent a considerable amount of time in meetings discussing the issue, we invited guests to present and also thoroughly reviewed the GBC statement on this matter.
Some lessons learned include: better communications, more representation and consideration of the needs of the greater devotee community in such matters. To this end we are trying to be more effective as an RGB body. For example, seven new members were elected to the Euro RGB at this meeting to increase the representation and current members were encouraged to improve communications with local leaders.
The Euro RGB body has been invested with the right to make a decision based on the input that we have been given and thus after much intense discussion, have concluded that it is in the best interest and needs of a majority of our community to uphold and support the previous Euro RGB body decision which reads as follows:
Resolution 22/09-03
Based on the ‘GBC decision regarding Lokanath Swami’ approved on July 20th, 2022, the Euro RGB body is requesting Lokanath Swami not to visit, preach or initiate in ISKCON projects and communities in Europe.
This resolution is not permanent and may change, especially if the GBC body is presented with new evidence and their decision is altered, otherwise the Euro RGB will not review this decision again. It should also be noted that the Euro RGB is making no statement or declaration which has not already been stated in GBC documentation.
We do acknowledge the impact this decision will have on devotees across our European community and the rest of the world. Therefore, we wish to offer support and encouragement to those affected by this challenging and faith-testing situation. We sincerely pray that we are all able to take shelter of the Supreme Lord, His Holy Name and together cross over these challenging times.
Yours in Service
The Euro RGB EC
Krishna Premarupa dasa
Jai Nitai dasa
Trilokatma dasa
On behalf of the Euro RGB
