Our uniquely-shaped state and this fine city were home to the 1893 World Parliament of Religions, the first formal gathering of Eastern and Western spiritual traditions. Today, this gathering is recognized as the birth of formal inter-religious dialogue in the world. Unity and tolerance and understanding were at the heart of this interfaith gathering. 124 years later, we are here in Chicago practicing and encouraging unity on our mat and beyond.

Interested in more on this gathering and the introduction of raja yoga/yoga of the mind? Read Swami Vivekananda's Sept 1893 addresses.