About the Center
MA Center Chicago is a welcoming faith-based community inspired by Amma, a world-renowned humanitarian and spiritual teacher. Our beautiful 142-acre campus offers a peaceful space for meditation and connection with nature. All faiths and backgrounds are welcome. Learn more about Amma's humanitarian activities at embracingtheworld.org.
About Our Community
Located in the far west Chicago suburb of Elburn, Illinois, MA Center Chicago sits on more than 140 serene acres. Inaugurated in 2012, it serves as the Midwest hub of charitable, educational and spiritual activities for Embracing the World — the collective of humanitarian initiatives inspired by Mata Amritanandamayi Devi, affectionately known as Amma. The center regularly holds spiritual talks, yoga and scriptural classes, meditation sessions and selfless-service projects. It is home to a group of residents and the spiritual home for hundreds of people from the greater Chicagoland area. On Saturdays the community comes together to serve and attend programs, and special events are held throughout the year — spiritual retreats, environmental projects and holiday celebrations.
Amma's Visits
The natural setting, facilities and proximity to Chicago-area airports make MA Center Chicago an ideal place to meet Amma. Visitors come from all over the United States and the world to attend her summer programs at the center. In the months before Amma's visit there is always much excitement as volunteers prepare to receive her — all of the preparations are done by volunteers.
Caring for Nature
MA Center Chicago is home to organic herb and vegetable gardens, fruit orchards, waterways and native prairie. The diversity of habitats surrounding the center supports a wide variety of plant and animal species. Committed to putting Amma's teachings on caring for nature into practice, the center maintains a comprehensive recycling and composting program and conducts environmental projects throughout the year.
How Can I Get Involved?
Saturday programs are the best way to experience all MA Center Chicago has to offer. Mornings typically begin with seva related to maintaining the grounds or preparing for programs — email macc.seva@macenters.org to help. For those who wish to immerse themselves in ashram life, overnight stays can be arranged through our guest program, and service-oriented stays of two weeks to two months through the Karma Yoga program. To join our mailing list for weekly updates, email macenterchicago@ammagroups.org.
