Oconee County resident Rita Mathew sees the Swami’s visit as timely considering many of the controversial political issues today. “In an election year marked by polarizing debates focused on religion, minority ethnic groups, and deportation of select communities, wouldn’t it be refreshing to know that it was not so long ago that a Swami from India brought a message of unity amongst diversity,” Mathew said. “I attend the Vedana Center in Atlanta because I find it integrates my Christian faith with my upbringing in India,” she said. The work of the disciples of the Ramakrishna Order has influenced many Westerners, according to Mathew. Senior monk of Ramakrishna Order t o speak at Athens church on Sunday
