Frequently Asked Questions

For answers to questions that may not be on this list, you may find what you are looking for on the FAQ page of the SRF Main Website.

Q: What is SRF?

A: Self-Realization Fellowship (SRF) is a worldwide, non-profit, religious organization with international headquarters in Los Angeles, California.  Self-Realization Fellowship was founded in 1920 by Paramahansa Yogananda for the purpose of dissemination of Kriya Yoga, a definite scientific technique for attaining direct personal experience of God.  Through its worldwide service and teachings, Self-Realization Fellowship seeks to awaken greater understanding of the harmony underlying all true religions, and a fuller expression in this world of the love that unites all people when they realize their oneness with God.  The weekly SRF Lessons are available to those who would like to study the teachings.

Q: I have just discovered SRF and the Houston Center.  Can I get more information about the Houston Center and what it offers?

A: Absolutely!  We are happy that you want to know more about SRF and our center.  Please browse our website, and hopefully you will find everything you need to know about us, including weekly services and gatherings.  Also, subscribing to our weekly announcements and quarterly newsletter are great ways for you to keep up with current events at the center.  If you have more specific information you would like to request that you cannot find on the website, please send an email to info@srfhouston.org, or fill out the email form in the Contact page, and someone will respond to your inquiry shortly.

Q: What activities does your center have during weekdays?

A: The Houston Center of SRF provides study groups for lessons students on Monday evenings, as well as meditation services on Thursday evenings.  For more information, please see our Service Schedule.

Q: What is “Day of Service”

A: The caring for the buildings and grounds is done by devotees on a volunteer basis.  Once a month, usually the first Saturday of the month, we have a day of service where devotees work on various maintenance projects.  The morning of activity is followed by a vegetarian lunch.

Q: Does the Houston Center of SRF offer any retreats?

A: Yes. Twice a year we reserve rooms at the Ruah Center of Villa de Matel in Houston for a silent retreat.  The retreat begins on Friday evening (Thursday evening arrival is optional) and continues through Sunday morning.  Rooms and meals are provided on a donation basis.  A number of group meditations are scheduled and there is plenty of free time to stroll about the grounds or visit the beautiful chapel.

Q: Does the Houston Center of SRF have items for purchase?

A: Yes. Our bookstore is located off the entry foyer in the main chapel.  SRF books, CDS, DVDs, and pictures in addition to meditation supplies are available for sale.  We accept all major forms of payment.  The bookstore is open after Sunday service.  If there is a healing or memorial service following the reading service, the bookstore is not open until after the service is concluded.

Q: What attire should visitors wear during services?

A: Any modest clothing that is loose fitting, comfortable, and adequately covers the body is acceptable.  Tight fitting clothing or anything that may come across as revealing or provocative should be avoided.