This year’s Subud Zone 4 gathering was more than just a delegates’ meeting; it was a powerful reunion of a family. Over three days, representatives from across the zone came together in person to tackle challenges, share insights, and reconnect on a deeply spiritual level. The atmosphere was filled with harmony and joy, proving that even in a world of online communication, there’s nothing quite like gathering face-to-face.
Global Connections and Future Plans
The meeting provided a crucial bridge between our local groups and the wider global organization. WSA Deputy Chair Hannah De Roo gave a comprehensive overview of the WSA’s mission, highlighting its dedication to supporting members and preserving the Latihan. A new Mental Health and Crisis in Subud subcommittee was announced, a testament to the WSA’s commitment to member well-being.
One of the most pressing topics was the importance of safeguarding policies. Delegates agreed that while a single global policy isn’t practical, every country should develop its own guidelines to create a safe, harmonious environment for all members.
The Muhammad Subuh Foundation (MSF) also took center stage. Hamid Da Silva shared exciting news about its new, more active investment strategy designed to grow the fund. He also revealed plans for a European MSF branch, a crucial development to help European members with tax-deductible donations and better manage bequests, ensuring more funds go directly to supporting Subud’s mission.
Delegates also received a first-hand report from the World Subud Council meeting in Fatima. The representative enthusiastically shared her experience of the Portuguese hospitality and the sense of unity felt among the different wings and council members. This provided a tangible sense of excitement for the next World Congress in Portugal in 2026.
Navigating Common Challenges Together
Beyond the global updates, a significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing shared challenges on a more local level. The delegates demonstrated a strong desire to support one another, turning individual problems into collaborative projects.
- Archive Management: Many countries face a widespread issue with managing their historical records. This challenge includes both the need for effective digital storage solutions and the difficulties associated with preserving physical archives in a secure and proper environment. Delegates shared technical solutions and the promising news of a potential new Area 2 European archive.
- Finding Leaders and Helpers: A significant and shared concern is the difficulty in finding members willing to take on official roles. The discussion delved beyond a simple lack of volunteers, exploring deeper issues like spiritual willingness, fear, and past negative experiences that may discourage members from serving. The group recognized the importance of relying on the Latihan and spiritual testing to find the right people for the right roles.
- Community Responsibility: The need for members to take greater financial and practical responsibility for their groups and Subud houses was a key point of discussion. The conversation highlighted a need for members to mature in their commitment, understanding that the community’s spiritual gifts come with tangible duties.
The Power of In-Person Connection
Delegates universally praised the effectiveness of meeting in person. The face-to-face gathering was described as a key factor in fostering a sense of family, unity, and spiritual rejuvenation, which is essential for tackling the challenges ahead. The delegates found that relying on the Latihan to guide their work and even admitting, “I don’t know,” when a solution seemed out of reach, was a powerful way to bring harmony and clarity.
The meeting concluded with a hopeful look ahead. The delegates confirmed that the next Subud Zone 4 Delegates Meeting in 2026 will be held in person, with Greece and Hungary both offering to serve as potential hosts.
As the meeting wrapped up, delegates went around the room to share a final thought. Words like “joy,” “harmony,” “unity,” and “blessed” echoed throughout the room. More than a business meeting, this gathering was a spiritual renewal that left everyone feeling refreshed and ready to go forward, carrying the spirit of the Latihan into our communities.