Gurdwara Sahib Woolwich
Gurdwara Sahib Woolwich is located in South London near River Thames and the Woolwich ferry. It serves mainly the local Woolwich and vicinity Sikh community, the Gurdwara site was originally purchased in the 70's. Gurdwara Sahib Woolwich is managed by an executive management committee, elected from the members of the sangat (congregation). Through this committee, the sangat sets the governing rules for Gurdwara Sahib Woolwich. Because each Gurdwara has it's own elected committee, the governing rules can differ between Gurdwaras - this allows for needs of the sangat of that particular Gurdwara to be met.
Protocols that must be adhered to whilst on Gurdwara Sahib Wolwich premises are:
- Remove your shoes before entering the Darbar Sahib. Shoe racks are available upon entering the Gurdwara on either sides; female on the left and male on the right hand side.
- Cover your head at all times whilst inside the Gurdwara premises.
- Bow in front of the Guru Granth Sahib Ji when joining the sangat (congregation) inside the Diwan Hall. Members of the sangat can offer money, butter, milk, fruit or sugar etc. towards the up keep of the Gurdwara or as ingredients for the langar meal but this is optional.
- Everyone sits cross-legged on the carpeted floor facing Guru Granth Sahib Ji whilst inside the Diwan Hall. The custom at this Gurdwara is for females to sit on the left and for males to sit on the right, although this sitting arrangement does vary between Gurdwaras. Sitting platforms are available to those unable to sit on the floor.
- Everyone stands up during the Ardas (common prayer to God).
- Switch off any mobile phone before entering the Diwan hall.
- No alcohol, tobacco, smoking or meat is allowed on the Gurdwara premises.
- No unnecessary talking is allowed during prayers as one is required to listen attentively to Gurbani being recited.
Gurdwara Sahib Woolwich is a non profit organisation founded on the universal principles of Sikhism and dedicated to serving the Sikh community.
