Sri Sathya Sai International Organization - USA

In the spring of 2023, the Land of Enchantment Retreat committee of the Sri Sathya Sai International Organization-USA (SSSIO-USA) Southwest Region convened to discuss ways to contribute to the SSSIO's One Million Sai Trees Initiative and commemorate their 40 years of retreats at the Bodhi Manda Zen Center. They decided to plant 40 trees! However, the Abbess Hosen from the Zen Center informed them regretfully that they could only accommodate a maximum of six trees. 

Seeking additional planting opportunities, SSSIO members reached out to Roger Fragua, a Jemez Pueblo Elder. He enthusiastically welcomed the idea, expressing a need for more fruit trees on Pueblo land. The timing was serendipitous, and God’s divine hand seemed to guide the project. 

Trees were purchased from Newman's Nursery, that recommended they plant the trees in the spring. In the end, eight trees were put into the ground during the Labor Day retreat in 2023, and the remaining 32 trees were planted the following year in April 2024. To commemorate the 40 years of retreats during Labor Day, the committee planted 40 flower bulbs instead. 

On April 13, 2024, Sai volunteers gathered at the Jemez Pueblo. The Pueblo people generously provided compost, while the Forest Service donated bark mulch. Pueblo members also pre-dug the planting holes with a tractor and auger, making the process seamless and efficient. 

The day began with a Tewa prayer circle and introductions. Eleven Sai volunteers from Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado along with five people from the Bodhi Manda Zen Center, including Abbess Hosen, were present, to join in the tree planting efforts and reverentially witness the spiritual rites.

Approximately 30 Pueblo members of all ages participated in prayers, planting, dancing, and the joyous feasting at the end. The Jemez Pueblo dancers performed a Butterfly Dance to bless the trees and prayed for abundant fruit. A professional videographer from Las Cruces, NM, was also present to document the event. 

This interfaith collaboration was such a beautiful representation of building community and spirit. All participants were filled with joy. One participant expressed, "Through this service, I truly imbibed the belief that Mother Earth is indeed a Deity, and that Nature is truly the vesture of God. Indigenous people worldwide are reminding us this truth again and again."