In 1969, as an increasing number of restless young spiritual seekers in America began to find out about Meher Baba, and the early seeds for what would eventually grow into the Avatar Meher Baba Center of Southern California were being planted in fertile soil. The seeds were predominantly a series of Meher Baba Bookstores that functioned as meeting places for those drawn to the Beloved, (in addition to the Pasadena bookstore pictured above, there were bookstores in Venice Beach, Redondo Beach, Huntington Beach and Santa Barbara) and as outposts for information to nourish these excited souls hungry for spiritual knowledge. More importantly the various southern California Meher Baba bookstores became hubs for a genuine heart connection with kindred spirits. Filis Frederick, who had long been closely connected to Meher Baba (she first met the God-Man in Myrtle Beach in 1952, and shortly thereafter began publishing a journal devoted to Him called "The Awakener," whose first issue appeared in July of 1953) was instrumental in the establishment of the Venice Bookstore. The young Baba seekers were drawn to Filis, and she provided guidance to the So Cal Baba community, nurturing the young seekers like a loving mother and caretaker.  Filis had extensive knowledge of spirituality in general, and had studied the eight major religions, but more importantly she expressed a warm acceptance of all and emanated an unconditional love that was truly uncommon. 

 

John Page was the moving force who set-up the Meher Baba Bookstore in Pasadena. John has seen the development of the various LA Centers over the years and has many recollections about the early days of the Pasadena bookstore, Filis Frederick and the Southern California Baba community. His personal journey with Meher Baba has seen many twists and turns and he has encountered many memorable personalities along the way.   

Meher Baba first visited Los Angeles in 1932, and there have been people devoted to Him living here ever since. From Jean Adriel and Malcolm Schloss to Filis Frederick and beyond, there are tales to be told, and John will tell them! John will sketch history of the LA Baba Center, including a special section on Filis. Attendees will also be encouraged to share their own reminiscences  about early days of the Center and Filis.

  Come join us for a festive and informational walk down memory lane!   

Jai Baba!