Self-Realization Fellowship

On Calle 56 in Barrio Boston, Medellín, a meditation group of Self-Realization Fellowship gathers around the teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda. Its own pages are plain about what it is: a local group in Colombia, not the official site of the organization's headquarters in Los Angeles.

Self-Realization Fellowship is a non-profit religious organization with members worldwide. Yogananda founded it in 1920 to spread the universal teachings of Kriya Yoga, described as scientific techniques of meditation through which a person can have a direct, personal experience of God. He arrived in the United States from India that same year. His Autobiography of a Yogi, published in 1946, has been a best seller since.

The fellowship's stated aim is to awaken a deeper understanding of the harmony underlying all true religions, and a fuller expression of the love that unites people once they recognize their unity in God.

In Medellín, that work takes the form of a programme the group publishes: meditation schedules, guided meditations, a monthly service (oficio del mes) and special events. The site also carries excerpts from Yogananda's writings, among them essays on the law of success, on faith and on happiness as an inheritance, and a monthly newsletter. Those who want the lessons in learning to meditate are directed to the headquarters website.

The Medellín group is one of several in Colombia. SRF meditation circles are also listed in Bogotá, Cali and Manizales.