Ananda’s letter refers in general terms to another recent lawsuit, allegedly being funded and promoted by SRF in order to harm Ananda. The truth is that SRF has had nothing to do with this matter.* {* SRF filed a legal declaration with the court on February 16, 1995, categorically refuting Ananda’s allegations of our involvement with this lawsuit. The documents pertaining to this case are a matter of public record at the San Mateo County Courthouse in California.} The suit was filed against Donald Walters and one of the other senior Ananda ministers by a former Ananda member. While Ananda’s letter claims that this lawsuit has "a purely religious significance, and [is] therefore nonjustifiable in a court of secular law," in actuality the charges are of sexual harassment.
The San Jose Mercury News reported on the case in its November 25, 1994 edition:
"According to the complaint, Walters has used the church as a ‘mechanism for the sexual exploitation of women’ since 1969 while claiming to be celibate and a ‘direct channel to God. ‘
"The suit identifies eight other women, either by name or initials, as victims of sexual harassment in the church."
We understand that this lawsuit is still in process.
...The more you are in tune with me and refrain from fussing about little things, the better you will be. A steady stream of divine power will flow to you, for the Great Ones sent me here. When I am gone you will realize this truth with greater impact. I am here only to deliver their message. Little by little a spiritual change will come to the true followers of this path, and their influence will spread over the world. Self-Realization is one of the greatest spiritual movements ever sent to help mankind. It has been blessed by the Great Ones Mahavatar Babaji, Lahiri Mahasaya, Sri Yukteswar in communion with Christ and Krishna. The grace of these masters is not one from the earth. They are waiting to help you and to help the world.
