Gurus_014_mac.jpg The Metaxas family of Berkely, Satchi 3, and Van Metaxas and Maria Grayson-Metaxas greet Mata. Reputed as a tireless humanitarian, Mata Amritanandamayi, better known as "Amma" or "Ammachi," visits the Bay Area from June 7-19, where s

gurus_014_mac.jpg The Metaxas family of Berkely, Satchi 3, and Van Metaxas and Maria Grayson-Metaxas greet Mata. Reputed as a tireless humanitarian, Mata Amritanandamayi, better known as "Amma" or "Ammachi," visits the Bay Area from June 7-19, where she will receive thousands with her blessing-a healing embrace. Free public programs take place at the MA Center on 10200 Crow Canyon Road in San Ramon. Considered a living Saint in her homeland, Amma, 51, has quietly gained an extraordinary reputation over the last 30 years as a result of the extensive charity institutions she has established, and for her personal outreach. Sleeping merely a couple hours per day, she teaches by the constant example of her own life, emphasizing selfless social service. 6/8/05 San Ramon, Ca Michael Macor / San Francisco Chronicle Ran on: 06-15-2005 Ran on: 06-15-2005 Above, the Metaxas family of Berkeley -- Satchi, 3, Van and Maria Grayson-Metaxas -- reaches the front of the line for a hug from Indian spiritual teacher Amma. Top, the 51-year-old woman, who has defied caste traditions, greets 4-year-old Raj Chippa of Los Gatos. ALSO RAN: 06/17/2005 The Metaxas family of Berkeley greet Amma, a spiritual adviser. (Photo By Michael Macor/The San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images)