Rianna Fales, chairwoman of the Spokane group, was among the first wave of newcomers. She joined in 1996 during Subud's North American convention in Spokane, a precursor to the international gathering. Fales' husband, Michael, had been a member for more than a dozen years, but hadn't participated in latihan for several years. Fales started asking questions and joined the group a short time later. The 39-year old homemaker is already considered a veteran, though, because she remembers the days when only a few people showed up for latihan.
Most members report dancing, singing, or chanting.
Just like with prayer, when you get a congregation of people praying, it's really strong. Since the influx of new members, the latihans are every Sunday and Wednesday. He stopped in at several of the public events and began attending informational meetings. He said it's changed his life. I know have proof that there is a God.