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BATTAMBANG

Cambodia

Preparations for Temple inauguration accelerate

Preparations for Temple inauguration accelerate BATTAMBANG, Cambodia — In just three weeks, the people of Battambang will celebrate the dedication of their local Baha'i House of Worship. New video footage captures recent progress and highlights the beauty of the Temple. The final step in the construction will be the placement of a calligraphic rendering of the invocation "O Glory of the All-Glorious," referred to as the Greatest Name, within the Temple's dome, planned to occur next week. The House of Worship at nightThe dedication, which will take place on 1 September 2017, will be marked by a two-day conference bringing together over 2,000 people from Battambang, as well as every other region of Cambodia. A number of Cambodian dignitaries will attend, as well as invited representatives of Baha'i communities in Southeast Asia. The Temple is a frequent topic of conversation among the local population. Even before its completion, it has galvanized action towards the betterment of the community and brought together neighbors in prayer and fellowship. In a letter dated 18 December 2014, the Universal House of Justice explained that a Baha'i House of Worship is a "collective centre of society to promote cordial affection" and "stands as a universal place of worship open to all the inhabitants of a locality irrespective of their religious affiliation, background, ethnicity, or gender and a haven for the deepest contemplation on spiritual reality and foundational questions of life, including individual and collective responsibility for the betterment of society."

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SINGAPORE

Singapore

Singapore's Prime Minister honors bicentenary anniversary

Singapore's Prime Minister honors bicentenary anniversary SINGAPORE, Singapore — As the two hundred year anniversary of Baha'u'llah's birth approaches, leaders around the world from the international to local level are honoring the momentous occasion with special tributes. Recently, Singapore's Prime Minister, Lee Hsien Loong, addressed a message to the Baha'i community of his country: "Baha'u'llah's teachings of unity and peace are cherished values in our multi-racial and multi-religious society," stated the message, dated 31 July 2017. "I am heartened that the Baha'i community is active in inter-faith engagements, and continues to promote understanding, dialogue and interaction among people from different religions." "Your efforts will go a long way in enhancing mutual respect in a multi-faith society and strengthening Singapore's social harmony," it continues. The Prime Minister's tribute is among a number that have already been received by Baha'i communities around the world. In Vietnam, in honor of the upcoming bicentenary celebrations, senior government officials, including Vice President of the Vietnam Fatherland Front Central Committee, met with representatives of the Baha'i community and expressed appreciation for the community's contributions towards the country's development through activities that are improving living conditions and promoting education. Since the message from the President of India earlier this year, similar tributes have now been received from the Vice President and several other high-ranking members of the national government, as well as the Chief Minister of one of the states of India and other officials. At the local level, the City Council of Rosario, Argentina, passed a government resolution honoring the bicentenary anniversary and recognizing Haifa as its sister city. In the United States, the city of Cambridge, Massachusetts, has also passed a resolution to honor the birth of Baha'u'llah and urge its citizens to work for the realization of peace, justice, and solidarity. A copy of the letter dated 31 July 2017 from Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong

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BATTAMBANG

Cambodia

Sacred symbol raised in Cambodia Temple

Sacred symbol raised in Cambodia Temple BATTAMBANG, Cambodia — Yesterday, the sacred Baha’i symbol representing the connection between God, His Manifestations, and mankind was raised within the local Baha’i House of Worship in Battambang, Cambodia, and installed at the apex of its dome. The placement of the Greatest Name symbol marks an important milestone. The symbol is a calligraphic rendering of the word “Baha,” meaning glory. The vertical line represents the Holy Spirit proceeding from God through His Manifestations to humanity, and the twin stars represent the Bab and Baha’u’llah. Representatives and members of the Baha’i community gathered for a small ceremony on 20 August 2017 in a spirit of reverence and prayer as the sacred symbol was lifted 11.8 meters above the ground to the apex of the Temple’s dome. After it was affixed in place, everyone at the Temple gathered for devotions. The team who raised and installed the symbol of the Greatest NameIn the coming days, a small ornamental case, originally purchased by Shoghi Effendi and containing dust from the inner sanctuary of the Shrine of Baha’u’llah, will be placed within the structure of the House of Worship. It will symbolize the profound spiritual connection between the Temple and the center of the Baha’i Faith. For the global Baha’i community, this first local House of Worship signals a new stage of development. The Temple will be inaugurated on 1 September 2017.

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BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

New Pilgrim Reception Centre opens in Haifa

New Pilgrim Reception Centre opens in Haifa BAHA’I WORLD CENTRE — A new Pilgrim Reception Centre has opened this month, ready to receive a growing number of pilgrims and visitors at the spiritual and administrative center of the Baha’i Faith. The three-story stone structure, which is located immediately to the west of the Shrine of the Bab, will receive the season’s first pilgrim group in October, on the occasion of the 200th anniversary of the birth of Baha’u’llah. The new Reception Centre makes it possible for several hundred pilgrims to visit the Baha’i World Centre at the same time, expanding the previous capacity. Every year, several thousand pilgrims and visitors from every corner of the world visit the Baha’i World Centre to pray and meditate at the Shrines of Baha’u’llah and the Bab and the surrounding gardens. Pilgrims are spiritually uplifted and draw inspiration from the time they also spend at historical sites associated with the lives of the central figures of the Faith, as well as visiting the edifices dedicated to its worldwide administration. The exterior of the new Pilgrim Reception Centre, which is located immediately to the west of the Shrine of the BabPilgrims represent the “life-blood” of the centre of their faith—like blood flowing to the heart, pilgrims journey here, bringing with them news of their Baha’i communities at home, and they return to their homes taking back joy, inspiration, and insights. The first Baha’i pilgrim house in Haifa was built in 1909. For more than a century, several different locations around the city have received the thousands of visitors who have come to undertake pilgrimage to the holiest sites on earth for Baha’is.

BATTAMBANG

Cambodia

Spirit and aspirations of a people: Reflections of Temple's architect

Spirit and aspirations of a people: Reflections of Temple's architect BATTAMBANG, Cambodia — Every day since Sochet Vitou Tang embarked on the journey to design the Baha'i House of Worship in Battambang just over two years ago, there has been a sense of joy in the process. "Of course, the day our design was selected was a moment that stands out," says the Cambodian architect. "But I have enjoyed every day of working on this project and seeing the way of life of a Baha'i community." In mid-2014, the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of Cambodia invited a number of architects from the region to participate in a design selection process, seeking the conception of an edifice that would create an atmosphere of unity, peace, and spiritual upliftment. Those architects—among them Mr. Tang's team, Architecture Design Intelligence (ADI)—were invited to visit the project site in Battambang and learn about the Baha'i community there, obtaining a sense of its spirit and aspirations. "That was when I started to feel like this was going to be a real project," says Mr. Tang, about his visit to Battambang in August 2014. "We started to do more research about the Baha'i Faith, and the more I could see the significance of the project, the more I was inspired to commit my heart and soul." Throughout his career, spirituality has played a large role in Mr. Tang's work. The architect himself is Buddhist, and through the project he learned much about the teachings of the Baha'i Faith. It was the principle of unity that struck him most profoundly—unity of religion, of all communities, of all races and people that is brought about through the intimate relationship between worshipping God and serving mankind. The architecture team sought to portray in the design the consonance between "being"—that is to say, increasing one's understanding of the divine teachings and reflecting spiritual qualities in one's personal life—and "doing"—that is, arising in service and accompanying other souls. "The idea of a Baha'i Temple was completely new to me," Mr. Tang reflects. "If you talk just about the scale and size, it is not that large a project. But if you talk about the function and purpose of the Temple, it is, to me, a great building." Sochet Vitou Tang, the Temple’s architectThe requirements set before the team at ADI challenged them to design a Temple that would reflect the local culture of Cambodia, as well as inspire feelings of harmony and peace. In planning the Temple, they were told that, when possible, it would be preferable to construct the building from materials indigenous to the region, striving to raise a modest yet beautiful structure. To design an edifice that would both be coherent with the environment and evoke feelings of unity, Mr. Tang drew inspiration from Cambodia's rich architectural heritage. The team then sought to design a Temple in keeping with the community, way of life, and natural environment of Battambang—a Temple that would evince spiritual qualities, harmonizing the material and spiritual worlds. The Baha'i Faith first came to Cambodia in the 1950s. However, it was not until the 1990s that the Baha'is had begun to emerge as a group respected for their dedication to service, development, and education. It was the strong connection between service to the community and worship to God cultivated through decades of careful attention and effort in Cambodia that led the Universal House of Justice to announce in 2012 that Battambang would be among one of the first localities in the world to build a local House of Worship. The Temple, which will be dedicated tomorrow, stands as a tribute to the enthusiasm with which the people of Battambang, and indeed throughout Cambodia, have responded to the Faith's ideals. Its design is distinctively Cambodian, reflecting the traditional beauty and refinement of the culture while using modern architectural techniques. Signaling their readiness for this new "dawning point of light," the community that lives around the House of Worship has already been permeated by a spirit of prayer and devotion. Throughout the many months of construction, they volunteered their assistance to this collective enterprise. Reflecting on the entire process, Mr. Tang considers the unique approach his team adopted of integrating the pursuit of material perfection and manifesting spiritual principles in their work on the Temple. "I am thankful for this small part in making the Baha'i House of Worship in Battambang a reality," he says. "It has been the kind of project that pushes you mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. It challenges your imagination as an architect to create something dedicated to the purpose of serving people from all walks of life. It is the kind of thing that I have really loved to do."

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103.23171364274523

BATTAMBANG

Cambodia

"A new dawn is breaking": House of Worship inaugurated in Cambodia

"A new dawn is breaking": House of Worship inaugurated in Cambodia BATTAMBANG, Cambodia — Some 2,500 people have gathered this morning at a conference to mark the historic dedication of the local Baha'i House of Worship in Battambang. "A new dawn is breaking," announced the Universal House of Justice in a letter addressing the participants, referring to the historic nature of this development for the Baha'i community. The vibrant colors, music, and splendor of Cambodia's culture were on display during the morning's program, which began with prayers, readings, and traditional dance. The program also included remarks by several officials from the national and provincial governments as well as the architect and representatives of the Baha'i community. 2,500 people are attending the dedication ceremony, which is being held in a tent on the grounds of the House of Worship.Following the opening session, participants have been visiting the Temple in groups of 250 for a program of prayers, the first including invited dignitaries and officials. Each group also spends time at a special exhibit, in which it learns about some of the foundational aspects of these edifices, including spiritual empowerment through education, worship and service, and individual and collective transformation.“It is an edifice of noble purpose, erected by a people of noble spirit.”—The Universal House of Justice The vibrant colors, music, and splendor of Cambodia's culture were on display during the morning's program, which began with devotions and a traditional dance."The emergence of a House of Worship in Battambang," wrote the House of Justice, "is a testament to how brightly the light of faith shines in the hearts of the friends there. Its design, the work of an accomplished Cambodian architect, reflects the grace and beauty of that nation's culture; it uses innovative techniques but blends them with forms traditional to the region; it unquestionably belongs to the land from which it has risen...It is an edifice of noble purpose, erected by a people of noble spirit." "May those who pass through its portals feel their spirits soar within, may their worship of the one true God strengthen the bonds of affection between them, and may their love for God be expressed through the service they render to those around them." The House of Worship in Battambang

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BATTAMBANG

Cambodia

Day 1 of Temple dedication captured in video highlights

Day 1 of Temple dedication captured in video highlights BATTAMBANG, Cambodia — As the first day of the Temple dedication conference comes to a close in Battambang, video highlights capture the day's joyous and exhilarating events. "We are all gathered here to celebrate the inauguration of an edifice that has been erected for the sole purpose of the glorification of the one true God, the creator of what is in heaven and on earth, which has the noble aim of uniting hearts together," explained representative of the Universal House of Justice, Ms. Sokuntheary Reth, in special remarks made within the Temple following the morning program. "This is the fruit of a transforming process set in motion a long time ago, by dedicated and courageous souls set out to bring the healing message of God to the golden land of the Kingdom of Cambodia." Representative of the Universal House of Justice, Ms. Sokuntheary Reth (center), walks with government representatives and representatives of the Baha'i community.The morning program, held under a tent on the Temple land, consisted of prayers, traditional dance, and talks by government representatives and the chairman of the Baha'i National Assembly of Cambodia. In groups of 250, people then entered the Temple, where they heard remarks from the representative of the House of Justice as well as sacred writings and prayers read and chanted in that hallowed space. The conference program continues tomorrow, beginning with a devotional program in the early morning.

12.9256791

103.23171364274523

BATTAMBANG

Cambodia

Inauguration conference concludes

Inauguration conference concludes BATTAMBANG, Cambodia — The historic dedication conference for the local Baha'i House of Worship in Battambang concluded today just before dusk. Highlights and interviews from day 2 are captured in a short video. Throughout the weekend, speakers highlighted the significance of the House of Worship for the region and for the Baha'i community in Cambodia. The transformation of the land on which the Temple was built symbolized a process of spiritual and social transformation that had been unfolding in the region in recent years and lends hope for even greater advancement in the years to come. "Once a barren and very quiet place, which not many people would want to pass through, it has now turned into a beautiful garden, attracting people from all walks of life, day and night," stated Chiem Chan Sophoan, Deputy Governor of Battambang, in his remarks at the conference. "I would like to emphasize that this local House of Worship will be assuming a very important role in unifying all people of different religions," he continued. "This House of Worship will not only be one of the public attractions in Battambang, but it will also attract spirituality for the people who will be gathering in this edifice." Visits to the Temple continued throughout the day, allowing the 2,500 people attending the conference to enter that sacred space, immerse themselves in prayer and meditation, and hear the uplifting welcome of the representative of the Universal House of Justice for the dedication, Ms. Sokuntheary Reth, who serves as a member of the Continental Board of Counsellors in Asia. The Temple will officially open to the public on 5 September 2017.

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103.23171364274523

NEW DELHI

India

India's Prime Minister and new President pay tribute to Baha'u'llah

India's Prime Minister and new President pay tribute to Baha'u'llah NEW DELHI — Following the tribute of India's President in April, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and newly-elected President Ram Nath Kovind have released messages for the occasion of the 200 year anniversary of the birth of Baha'u'llah. "Baha'i Faith gives the world a vision of universal brotherhood," wrote Prime Minister Modi in his letter to the Baha'i community of India. “Its messages of love and respect aim to make the world a beautiful place that celebrates harmony and peace." Speaking of the Baha’i community in India, he wrote: "Since the revelation of the Prophet Baha'u'llah, Baha'i Faith has found wholehearted acceptance in India, where one of its most dynamic communities has flourished since then.” And he further commented that institutions such as the Baha’i House of Worship—referred to as the Lotus Temple—“epitomize” the “spirit of fellowship and universal brotherhood.” A tribute dated 30 August 2017 from Prime Minister Narendra ModiPresident Ram Nath Kovind, who assumed office at the end of July this year, addressed his own message to the Baha'is, writing, "India's well-being depends on the ever greater commitment among its citizens to the principle of unity in diversity...The exertions of the Baha'i community offer hope that the goal of oneness can be achieved." Other officials in India—including the former President, the Vice President, high-ranking members of the national government, and the Chief Minister of one of the states of India, and a number of local officials—have also released statements in honor of the bicentenary.

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77.2090057

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

New edition of The Baha'is published this month

New edition of The Baha'is published this month BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — A new edition of The Baha'is publication, with entirely new content and vibrant imagery and design, is scheduled to be released on 14 September 2017. The Baha'is offers a survey of the teachings and history of the Baha'i Faith as well as the efforts of the Baha'i community to contribute to the advancement of society. Prepared in this special year of the 200th anniversary of Baha'u'llah's birth, which will be commemorated in thousands of localities throughout the world next month, the publication provides a glimpse into the extraordinary life and vision of Baha'u'llah and the influence of His message on the hearts and minds of countless people. The Baha'is covers a number of themes including the oneness of humankind, universal peace, the harmony of science and religion, Baha'i endeavors in social and economic development, and the administrative system of the Baha'i Faith. One of the most critical themes it explores is the role of religion in the contemporary world. "Religion has experienced a resurgence as a social force of global importance," reads the opening article. The Baha'is will be published a little more than a month before the 200-year anniversary of the birth of Baha'u'llah. The publication gives a glimpse into His extraordinary life and influence."Religion today cannot be exactly what it was in a previous era. Much of what is regarded as religion in the contemporary world must, Baha'is believe, be re-examined in light of the fundamental truths Baha'u'llah has posited: the oneness of God, the oneness of religion, and the oneness of the human family." The Baha'is has long been a popular introductory work for people interested in learning more about the Baha'i teachings and the activities of the Baha'i community. The first edition was published in 1992, and a subsequent version was released in 2005. Copies of The Baha'is can be ordered online at the U.S. Baha'i Distribution Service website.

BRUCK AN DER LEITHA

Austria

As bicentenary nears, celebrations multiply

As bicentenary nears, celebrations multiply BRUCK AN DER LEITHA, Austria — A local Baha'i, Sussan Zarifzadeh, worked with the mayor's office to organize the event. Mrs. Zarifzadeh and her family have in recent years assisted refugees to settle in Bruck. It was this work that first drew the attention of the mayor and inspired him to offer to host a commemoration in honor of the Baha'i community. In country after country, preparations for the bicentenary of the birth of Baha'u'llah are accelerating and giving rise to a range of expressions, including works of art, tributes from national and local leaders, and community celebrations. A striking example unfolded in the Austrian town of Bruck an der Leitha, where a festival for the 200th anniversary of the birth of Baha'u'llah was organized by the office of the Mayor on 8 September 2017. With nearly 200 people in attendance at the town hall, the celebration brought together community leaders and townspeople in honor of Baha'u'llah's message of peace and unity. Mayor Richard Hemmer emphasized the Baha'i teachings on unity in his remarks at the celebration. History has been stained by violence, he explained, and we should never forget the atrocities of the past. He pointed to the Baha'i community as an example of a group that has chosen a path of peace, nonviolence, and inclusion. The celebration last week in Bruck an der Leitha of the bicentenary of Baha'u'llah's birth attracted over 200 guests from the town and surrounding area.Like many towns throughout Europe, Bruck an der Leitha—situated on the Leitha river near the border with Slovakia—has seen growing numbers of refugees from Syria and other countries. The town of Bruck had taken in a small number of migrants until 2015, when a number of tragic deaths of refugees in Austria drew attention to the issue. The community of Bruck was deeply affected and became determined to work more vigorously to ensure the successful settlement of refugees. The town formed an organization called Unser Bruck Hilft! (Our Bruck Helps!) to assist with the resettlement of refugees. Knowing that the Baha'i community had previously assisted a group of refugees from Turkey to settle in the town, the organization requested its help. Initially, the Baha'is offered practical assistance, such as arranging for medical care. However over time, they began working with others in the town to provide a program for the education and upliftment of the recently resettled youth. The relationship between the local government of Bruck and the Baha'is there has grown over the last several years through their work together. The mayor's decision to hold a celebration of the 200th anniversary of Baha'u'llah's birth was a recognition of the contributions of the Baha'is to the local community. The celebration, held at the town hall, was open to everyone in Bruck and the surrounding areas. The festivities included a number of musical performances, including an original choral composition of words of Baha'u'llah put to music. An exhibit featuring the main teachings of the world's major religions highlighted the imperative of unity. Many guests at the event expressed their appreciation that the bicentenary celebration allowed for every member of the community to contribute in some way. From a small performance by the local music school to presentations offered by government officials to the preparation of refreshments, many people helped with the festivities. Dorothy Khadem-Missagh of the Baha'i community commented, "The people of Bruck did not just come to enjoy the bicentenary celebration; they also contributed to it. And as a result, we all came closer together and grew in consciousness about the need to work for the betterment of the world."

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BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Leaders continue to honor bicentenary

Leaders continue to honor bicentenary BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — Tributes in honor of the bicentenary from local and national leaders from diverse parts of the world continue to be received by Baha'i communities, most recently from Australasia, Central Asia, and South America. In New Zealand, Prime Minister Bill English has addressed a message to the Baha'i community of his country. "Many in New Zealand and around the world will be celebrating this very special anniversary, and I hope you enjoy the festivities with your family and friends," he states in his letter. Earlier in the year, in his message to the Baha'i community of Australia on the occasion of Ridvan, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull wrote an uplifting tribute, acknowledging this special bicentenary year. "Australia's Baha'is are a community of warmth and welcome; a community of music and charity; a community that rejoices in its identity and yet extends its counsel of respect and equality to all," wrote Prime Minister Turnbull in April. "We are truly citizens of the world and our shared commitment to friendship, inclusion and harmony is what lies at the heart of our success." A letter of greeting from New Zealand Prime Minister Bill English to the Baha'i community thereIn Kazakhstan, the Deputy Minister for Religious Affairs and Civil Society, Berik Aryn, addressed a letter to the Baha'i community there, writing: "We hope that the followers of the Baha'i Faith will, through their spiritual service, promote the further consolidation of the strong relationship between government entities and religious groups, as well as between the different faith groups in Kazakhstan." In Argentina, a number of local and regional officials in the province of Santa Fe have sent video greetings to the Universal House of Justice and to the city of Haifa. Other gestures from officials in Rosario, Argentina, have included a number of municipal and provincial decrees, radio interviews, a flag-raising celebration, and messages of greeting.

ISLAMABAD

Pakistan

Leaders mark bicentenary in Pakistan

Leaders mark bicentenary in Pakistan ISLAMABAD, Pakistan — All over the world, Baha'i communities are preparing for the 200 year anniversary of Baha'u'llah's birth, which will be celebrated on 21 and 22 October 2017. Already in the month leading up to this significant occasion, commemorations have been held in a growing number of countries. In Pakistan, Member of Parliament Asiya Nasir hosted a gathering at the Pakistan Institute of Parliamentary Services in honor of the upcoming bicentenary. In her work, Ms. Nasir has been involved with initiatives for interfaith coexistence and harmony, and the celebration held on 12 September 2017 was no exception. Over 100 parliamentarians, diplomats, and religious leaders were invited to attend the gathering, the theme of which was based on a well-known passage from Baha'u'llah: "The earth is but one country, and mankind its citizens." A tribute to the Baha'i community for the occasion of the 200th anniversary of the birth of Baha'u'llah from the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith HarmonyMs. Nasir was among a number of speakers at the event whose presentations highlighted this crucial theme. "This event brought together representatives from many diverse religious groups-Christian, Muslim, Hindu, Sikh, Baha'i-to celebrate unity," said Marzieh Kamal, a representative from the Baha'i community. The conference was organized following a message from the Federal Minister of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony in Pakistan to the Baha'i community. "Peace and unity are the pivotal teachings of the Baha'i Faith, and the Baha'i community of Pakistan are a peace loving community," wrote Federal Minister Sardar Muhammad Yousaf in a letter dated 16 August 2017. "Their contribution towards the betterment of individual, society and the country are truly admirable and have been in harmony with efforts being made by our Government of Pakistan." Federal Minister Yousaf concluded his message by offering well wishes to the Baha'i community and expressing his confidence in its continued efforts to work for the peace, progress, and prosperity of Pakistan.

33.6938118

73.0651511

BIC NEW YORK

Decade of unjust imprisonment ends for Mahvash Sabet

Decade of unjust imprisonment ends for Mahvash Sabet BIC NEW YORK — After enduring ten years of unjust imprisonment and harsh treatment, Mahvash Sabet's sentence has come to an end. She is one of the seven members of the former leadership group of the Baha'is in Iran known as the Yaran, who were jailed on false and baseless charges. During her confinement in Iran's notorious Evin and Raja'i Shahr prisons, Mrs. Sabet distinguished herself by the loving care and kindness she extended to her fellow prisoners. Journalist Roxana Saberi, who shared a cell in Evin with Mrs. Sabet and fellow Yaran member Fariba Kamalabadi, has written about how their compassion touched the lives of other inmates, as well as a touching recollection of how they cared for her during her hunger strike. While in prison, Mrs. Sabet, a former teacher and school principal who also worked with the National Literacy Committee of Iran, found solace in writing poetry. Her remarkable compositions were collected and adapted into English, published in a volume entitled Prison Poems in 2013 that was widely praised for its literary quality and profound subject matter. As has occurred with prisoners of conscience, writers, thought-leaders, and poets who have been wrongly imprisoned throughout history, the power of Mrs. Sabet's ideas and beliefs was only amplified by her persecution. The plight of its author attracted attention to this deeply moving collection of poetry, inspiring PEN International to feature Mrs. Sabet in a campaign to defend persecuted writers. Her poems also inspired a musical composition by award-winning composer Lasse Thoresen, performed at an international music festival in Oslo earlier this year. Mrs. Sabet, now 64 years old, was arrested in March 2008. The six other members of the Yaran were imprisoned in May of the same year. All seven members were held without communication with the outside for weeks, were subjected to solitary confinement, and suffered appalling treatment and deprivations, including psychological and physical hardships. "Although Mrs. Sabet is being freed from prison, she will still not achieve full freedom," said Bani Dugal, the Principal Representative of the Baha'i International Community to the United Nations in New York. "She will return to a society where Baha'i youth are deprived of access to higher education and public jobs, where attacks on small Baha'i-owned shops are increasing, cemeteries are being desecrated, Baha'is are vilified in state sponsored media on a daily basis and where they are arbitrarily arrested and imprisoned for their beliefs." The other imprisoned members of the Yaran are also expected to complete their sentences in the coming months. They include Mrs. Fariba Kamalabadi, 55; Mr. Jamalodin Khanjani, 83; Mr. Afif Naeimi, 55; Mr. Saeid Rezai, 59; Mr. Behrooz Tavakkoli, 65; and Mr. Vahid Tizfahm, 43. "We hope that their release will start a new chapter for the treatment of the Baha'is in Iran and that the government will begin to remove the obstacles in its way to abide by the promise it has made of 'creating justice for all Iranians equally,'" said Ms. Dugal.

SANTIAGO

Chile

Bicentenary inspires gift of trees

Bicentenary inspires gift of trees SANTIAGO, Chile — The Baha’i community of Chile recently donated 2,000 trees to the city of Santiago. This gift came from the Native Flora Project, a tree-planting initiative at the Baha’i House of Worship in Chile. The trees were donated in honor of the upcoming bicentenary of the birth of Baha’u’llah, which will be celebrated next month on 21 and 22 October. The Mayor of the Metropolitan Region of Santiago, Claudio Orrego, visited the House of Worship to accept the donation on behalf of the city and to learn about the tree-planting project. The trees donated to Santiago were raised on the land surrounding the Baha’i House of Worship. The community donated some of these plants to the city, where they will be planted in parks and other areas.Since the beginning of construction on the House of Worship, hundreds of volunteers have been gathering at the Temple site every weekend to plant trees, and more than 9,000 trees and hundreds of other plants now flourish on the land. The community was inspired to start the project after reflecting on the potential contribution of the House of Worship to the surrounding area. Maggy Canales is one of the organizers of the Native Flora Project. She explained that the project is improving the conditions of the forest’s ecosystem, and it has brought the community together to work for the conservation of native plant species. Members of Santiago’s community from students to environmental NGOs to scout troops have all volunteered their time to the project. Many of the seeds are collected from the trees growing in the foothills of the Andes and planted in a greenhouse on the Temple land. These trees have been planted around the Temple or donated to local schools and communities within and around Santiago. Mayor Orrego spoke about the significant impact of the House of Worship on the well-being of Santiago, calling it a “great gift for everyone.” During his visit, Mr. Orrego spoke with volunteers at the greenhouse and expressed his appreciation for the many opportunities that the Temple has opened for Santiago. The trees donated by the Baha’is will be planted in parks, in medians on city roads, and next to streams in areas of the city without much vegetation.

-33.4377756

-70.6504502

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Baha’i Media Bank: Reflecting world-embracing vision

Baha’i Media Bank: Reflecting world-embracing vision BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — As the historic 200th anniversary of the birth of Baha’u’llah next month approaches, the Baha’i Media Bank has undergone a major update. For nearly 11 years, the site has served as a reservoir of visual resources for publishers, journalists, videographers, and students, among others. With over 1,600 photographs as well as maps and graphics, the site is categorized under five main headings: activities of the Baha’i community, administration and agencies, buildings and places, history, and gatherings and conferences. This photo of the Shrine of the Bab is among the new photos of Baha’i holy places and other significant sites included on the Media Bank.The site provides a glimpse into the diversity of the Baha’i community and the breadth of its activities unfolding at the grassroots as well as at the national and international levels. It also contains a number of historical photographs. The site content will be periodically updated and new photographs added to the various collections. The Baha’i Media Bank can be found at: media.bahai.org

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Bicentenary website connects the world

Bicentenary website connects the world BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — A new international website for the 200th anniversary of the birth of Baha’u’llah was launched today. The website will unfold in stages over the course of the next month. Currently featuring artistic endeavors created for this special occasion, articles on the life and revelation of Baha’u’llah, and tribute messages from national and local leaders, the site will expand in a dynamic fashion over the coming weeks, notably to include a feature film about the life of Baha’u’llah, which will go up on 18 October. The website will be available in 6 languages—English, Russian, Spanish, French, Persian, and Arabic. Beginning at the first sunset on 20 October in the Pacific region and ending at the last on 22 October in the Americas, the site will be updated with photos, news, and other media from scores of locations over the course of those 72 hours. There are also plans to include video coverage from some of the Baha’i Houses of Worship. The bicentenary website will connect the world by capturing the celebrations of people from all walks of life in selected localities across the globe as they celebrate the life of Baha’u’llah and His unifying message. These localities will be illustrative of the thousands of other celebrations that will be unfolding in country after country throughout the planet. The Universal House of Justice has written that the Twin Holy Days are an opportunity for all “to commemorate moments when a Being peerless in creation, a Manifestation of God, was born to the world.”

NEW DELHI

India

Historic Battle of Haifa commemorated in New Delhi

Historic Battle of Haifa commemorated in New Delhi NEW DELHI, India — On 23 September 1918, during the final year of World War I, Indian soldiers played a decisive role in the Battle of Haifa. In what is believed to be one of the last cavalry charges in modern military history, the soldiers carried out an attack that allowed the British forces to capture Haifa from the Ottoman army. As they did so, they also ended up ensuring the safety of ‘Abdu’l-Baha. India’s part in this historic battle was commemorated on 20 September 2017 at an event in New Delhi hosted by a think tank, the India Foundation. The event, titled The Centennial Commemoration of the Battle of Haifa, included politicians, civil servants, members of the military and armed forces, some of whom were descendants of the soldiers who fought in the battle, and representatives from the Baha’i community of India. Addressing the audience, Major Chandrakant Singh, Secretary of the Indian War Veterans Association, said, “In researching the Battle of Haifa, I came upon the fascinating history of the Baha’is and their central figure ‘Abdu’l-Baha. I came to the conclusion that the story of the Battle of Haifa and the story of the Baha’is are so closely interlinked and so inspiring that everyone in India should know them.” Some of the presenters at the Commemoration of the Battle of Haifa, held on 20 September 2017 in New Delhi. Naznene Rowhani, representative of the Baha’i community, is standing third from the left.Indeed, safeguarding ‘Abdu’l-Baha was one of the lesser-known outcomes of the battle, explained Brigadier M.S. Jodha, the grandson of the captain who took charge of the Indian forces after the commanding officer was killed. Mr. Jodha described the military intricacies of the battle in his presentation. ‘Abdu’l-Baha had been a prisoner of the Ottoman Empire since His childhood. He was freed from incarceration in the prison city of ‘Akka in 1908 when the Young Turk Revolution led to the discharge of all religious and political prisoners. Following his release, ‘Abdu’l-Baha moved his residence to Haifa, where he was overseeing the construction of the Shrine of the Bab on Mount Carmel. During the early years of World War I, though no longer imprisoned, ‘Abdu’l-Baha faced repeated threats against His life by authorities that were antagonistic toward Him and the Baha’is. The Commander of the Ottoman fourth army corps had even threatened to crucify ‘Abdu’l-Baha if the Turkish army were ever to be displaced out of Haifa. It was under these circumstances that the dramatic Battle of Haifa unfolded, during which two regiments of Indian cavalry soldiers played a critical role in capturing the city from the well-entrenched Turkish and German soldiers.“‘Abdu’l-Baha spoke of India as a land endowed with brilliant capacity, and expressed the hope that they would work to unite its peoples.”—Naznene Rowhani, representative of India's Baha'i communityVarious speakers talked about the dramatic events of the battle as Indian cavalry regiments led a bold uphill charge toward Ottoman artillery positions on Mount Carmel. Though the Indian soldiers—the Jodhpur Lancers and the Mysore Lancers—were armed only with lances and spears and faced machine gun fire as they charged forward, their victory was unexpectedly swift, and Haifa was captured with relatively few casualties. According to a historical account by Hasan Balyuzi, after the battle, Indian army soldiers were sent to the gates of the house of ‘Abdu’l-Baha. He “was sitting calm and unperturbed in the forecourt of his house.” In her presentation, a representative of India’s Baha’i community, Naznene Rowhani, recounted stories of some of the Indian soldiers who met ‘Abdu’l-Baha two days after the battle and were invited by Him to have tea. “It was a picturesque and striking scene,” she said. “‘Abdu’l-Baha, sitting with representatives from India, Persia, the Kurdistan region, Egypt, and England, some dressed in military suits, others wearing turbans and Indian caps, and all receiving sweets from His own hands.” Ms. Rowhani also related the comments made by ‘Abdu’l-Baha to two Indian officers—Mir Mumtaz Ali and Rasidar Rahim Sher Khan—who met with Him: “He told them that when they returned to India he wished for them to engage in another kind of warfare, a war against self and passion. He said that ‘he who gains victory over his self is the real conqueror, has proved his power, and will become the recipients of God’s blessings.’ ‘Abdu’l-Baha spoke of India as a land endowed with brilliant capacity, and expressed the hope that they would work to unite its peoples.”

28.6138954

77.2090057

COLOMBO

Sri Lanka

Messages of appreciation from leaders continue

Messages of appreciation from leaders continue COLOMBO, Sri Lanka — The Baha’is of Bangladesh, Malaysia, Nepal, and Sri Lanka have received statements of encouragement and appreciation from leaders in their countries honoring the two hundred year anniversary of the birth of Baha'u'llah, which will be celebrated around the world on 21 and 22 October. In his message, the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Ranil Wickremesinghe, extended his greetings to the Baha’i community and expressed his appreciation for the contributions it is making “towards the country’s goodwill and prosperity.” Asaduzzaman Noor, Bangladesh’s Minister of Cultural Affairs, highlighted the “pivotal aim of the Baha’i Faith being unity and fellowship amongst the diversified races and peoples of the earth” stating that it “is a welcome principle in a world torn with strife and discord.” In a message dated 30 August 2017 to the Baha’is of Sri Lanka, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe offered his greetings to the Baha’i community and praised it for “contributing tremendously towards the country’s goodwill and prosperity.”The message continues: “In the words of Baha’u’llah: ‘Ye are all the fruits of one tree and the leaves of one branch.’” Malaysia’s Baha’i community was addressed by Joseph Kurup, a Minister in the Department of Prime Minister Najib Razak. “The Baha’i community has been an active promoter of inter-faith dialogue and also a genuine protagonist of unity and harmony among the multi-ethnic and multi-religious population of this country...Baha’u’llah’s teachings on the oneness of the world of humanity and His call for a world embracing vision encapsulated in the phrase ‘the earth is but one country, and mankind its citizens’ are essential both for establishing national unity as well as promoting global understanding and peace.” In Nepal, messages from Deputy Prime Minister Gopal Man Shrestha and Minister for Home Affairs Janardan Sharma were received by the Baha’i community, expressing warm greetings for the occasion of the bicentenary. “Baha’u’llah’s message that God is one and all human beings are members of the same family is always relevant in a country like ours where there is so much social, cultural, and religious diversity,” wrote Deputy Prime Minister Shrestha.

6.9387469

79.8541134

NEW YORK

United States

Hearing "the Divinity in the music": Dizzy Gillespie remembered at 100

Hearing "the Divinity in the music": Dizzy Gillespie remembered at 100 NEW YORK — Dizzy Gillespie is remembered not only for his genius as a trumpeter who broke new ground in jazz but also for his long-standing dedication to the teachings of Baha’u’llah. Reflecting on the life and accomplishments of this iconic figure 100 years after his birth would be incomplete without reflecting on the Baha’i belief that seemed most to inspire and drive his work—that all human beings are part of one family. “Dizzy represented an organic breakthrough in music,” asserts jazz pianist Mike Longo about Dizzy Gillespie, his late collaborator and friend. “His music is from such a deep place,” Longo says, scanning the walls of his apartment on Riverside Drive on Manhattan’s upper west side. Framed photographs capture the decades of a musical partnership that ranged from playing sold-out concerts in major venues to private practice sessions at Gillespie’s home in Englewood on the other side of the Hudson River. But jazz was not the only uniting factor in Gillespie and Longo’s enduring friendship. Both men were attracted to Baha’u’llah’s message of oneness and unity—principles that would lead them to embrace the Baha'i Faith. “The night I joined the band was the night he heard about the Baha’i Faith,” says Longo. When Gillespie encountered the Baha’i Faith for the first time, after a concert in Milwaukee, he discovered that it immediately resonated with his thinking—and his music.“When I encountered the Baha’i Faith, it all went along with what I had always believed. I believed in the oneness of mankind. I believed we all come from the same source, that no race of people is inherently superior to any other.”—Dizzy Gillespie“Jazz is based on the same principles as the Baha’i Faith,” says Longo. “Interracial mixing was way back when jazz first started. Dizzy described jazz as a marriage between African rhythm and European harmony and so, if you look at that from a broader perspective, that’s a marriage between the black race and the white race. And Dizzy’s music specifically, when they say that the Prophet unleashes a new power in the universe, Dizzy’s concept of bebop…is a reflection of that.” Gillespie’s deep commitment to unity and justice expressed itself through the inclusive spirit that characterized his music and his interactions with people of all walks of life. Bebop pioneer Born John Birks Gillespie in Cheraw, South Carolina, on 21 October 1917, Dizzy Gillespie was at the cutting edge of the bebop jazz phenomenon in the 1940s, often considered the most radical and vital music of its time. Bebop is characterized by its high energy tempos and rapid key changes, complex chord progressions, and dazzling improvisations around a melody. “They were doing very difficult things,” explains British jazz and art critic Martin Gayford. “Gillespie’s technique alarmed other trumpet players, particularly because he was playing so high.” Trumpeter James Morrison performs with the James Morrison Trio and the BBC Concert Orchestra under conductor John Mauceri at the 2017 BBC Proms. (Photo courtesy of the BBC)“While Charlie Parker came up with the phrasing and the rhythmic approach, Gillespie’s contribution was more the technical side of the harmony and great showmanship.” “The photographs that typify the bebop era are of Dizzy, with his beret and goatee beard,” says Gayford. That vibrant persona and sheer technical virtuosity—with Gillespie’s trademark cheeks ballooning out bullfrog-like around the mouthpiece of his distinctive bent trumpet—make him a hard act for trumpeters to follow today. “When, at the age of 8, I first heard a recording of his music, I was just astonished by what the trumpet could do,” says James Morrison, the celebrated Australian musician who was at the helm of an anniversary tribute concert held at London’s Royal Albert Hall on 4 August 2017, as part of the world-famous BBC Proms concert season. “I have always been inspired by his way of playing the trumpet,” says Morrison. “I’m very heavily influenced by him.” Morrison, who played with Gillespie on a number of occasions, believes his outgoing personality helped to make his innovative music a lot more accessible. “He was there pushing boundaries, but he was so approachable as a person. There is a clichéd idea that an innovator has to be a dark, brooding person, off in his own world. But Dizzy was so garrulous and made such a great connection with the audience.”“This music doesn’t come from thinking. You can’t think and play at the same time. It comes from behind the mind, so there’s a sort of a bliss place back there that’s totally spiritual. That is the animating force to our music... The power that Baha’u’llah unleashed is the animating force in the arts.”—Mike LongoEncountering the Baha’i Faith It was just such an audience member who first introduced Gillespie to the Baha’i Faith. Beth McKenty, a Canadian who attended one of his shows in Milwaukee, had been inspired to reach out to him after reading about the tragic death of Charlie Parker, bebop’s co-originator. Parker was a saxophonist, who had at one point claimed that Gillespie was the “other half of his heart.” He died in 1955 at the age of 34, following a long period of drug addiction. Gillespie during a visit to the Baha’i World Centre in 1985“Beth had called Dizzy and told him, ‘Charlie Parker didn’t have to die like he died’ and could she talk to him,” remembers Longo. “And so that night, she and her husband came and Dizzy was sitting with them at the table and she told him about the Baha’i Faith and gave him a lot of literature.” After a period of intense reading and studying, Gillespie formally accepted the Baha’i Faith on 5 April 1968, the night after the assassination of Civil Rights Leader Martin Luther King Jr. The musician was attracted by the emphasis given in Baha’u’llah’s teachings to unity, particularly by their assertion of the harmony of science and religion, the equality of women and men, and the oneness of humanity. “He and I were both very upset about the racial situation here with all the riots and everything,” says Longo. “We were talking and I said, ‘It don’t have to be like that,’ and I remember we were saying, ‘There’s got to be somebody that represents the way we feel,’ and that’s when he discovered the Faith.” Gillespie wrote in his autobiography, To Be or Not to Bop, “When I encountered the Baha’i Faith, it all went along with what I had always believed. I believed in the oneness of mankind. I believed we all come from the same source, that no race of people is inherently superior to any other.” “Dizzy was tuned into the vibe,” says Longo. Gillespie had long been interested in exploring the rhythms and harmonies of diverse cultures, and Longo believes his music evolved even further after he embraced the Baha’i teachings. “It got deeper,” he says. “If you listen to the chronology of his recordings, when he embraced the Afro-Cuban thing, the music went to a much deeper level… It went to a world level. And if you think about the Faith, that was a reflection of all the people coming together, it went on to a level as close as a human being can get to perfection.” Becoming a Baha’i influenced Gillespie’s life in every way. He wrote that it gave him “a new concept of the relationship between God and man—between man and his fellow man—man and his family.” “I became more spiritually aware, and when you’re spiritually aware, that will be reflected in what you do,” wrote Gillespie. And jazz musicians, Gillespie believed, were among “the people most ‘in tune’ with the Universe.” “What is more appropriate than a musician being in tune with nature and with our Creator?” he wrote. “The best example is the way that they perform; how do they come up with things that have never been played before? Where did they get it? They have to have some kind of divine inspiration.” Longo concurs. “This music doesn’t come from thinking. You can’t think and play at the same time. It comes from behind the mind, so there’s a sort of a bliss place back there that’s totally spiritual. That is the animating force to our music. In fact all of the arts, and sciences as well. The power that Baha’u’llah unleashed is the animating force in the arts.” “Dizzy said, ‘What you hear is the divinity in the music.’”“In the Baha’i religion we don’t believe in cutting loose anything good. Cut loose your heritage? Baha’is believe that you bring it in and work with others. Bring it into the whole just like a master painting. Because I’m purple and there’s another cat who’s orange doesn’t mean that we can’t come into one big compatible complementary arrangement.”—Dizzy GillespieThe United Nation Orchestra “Gillespie was around for a very long time,” reflects Martin Gayford, “from the 1940s right through to the 1990s. So he became something of an elder statesman of jazz, and a great encourager of young talent.” The most ambitious, and final, fusion of his music with his religious beliefs was Gillespie’s formation of his United Nation Orchestra, with which he toured the world in the 1980s. The Baha’i principle of building unity that maintains and celebrates cultural diversity was Gillespie’s key inspiration for the big band made up of younger musicians from the United States and outstanding players and singers from Brazil, Cuba, and Panama. “That’s what he believed in,” says Longo, “and so that’s what the principle of the United Nation Orchestra was.” “In the Baha’i religion we don’t believe in cutting loose anything good,” Gillespie wrote. “Cut loose your heritage? Baha’is believe that you bring it in and work with others. Bring it into the whole just like a master painting. Because I’m purple and there’s another cat who’s orange doesn’t mean that we can’t come into one big compatible complementary arrangement. Just contribute from your own uniqueness, but don’t get over in their groove. Stay outta theirs!” A lasting legacy Since his death in 1993 at the age of 75, Dizzy Gillespie continues to be revered by enthusiasts the world over. His music has become the subject of academic study and symposia; his recordings are constantly being remastered, reissued, and rediscovered by younger generations. In the coming months, tribute concerts marking 100 years since his birth are taking place across the globe. These two new murals in Harlem were painted to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Dizzy Gillespie’s birth in October 1917.“When you pay a tribute to someone, there’s that question – do you imitate them?” says James Morrison. “And I believe, sound-wise—no. There are recognizable ‘Dizzyisms’ in what happens, but a true tribute is to create the atmosphere. It’s always like he was having a party, and he would take that onto the stage. I’ve always felt that’s what I wanted to do too.” But Mike Longo believes Gillespie’s music is still not fully understood. Speaking at the trumpeter’s funeral in 1993, Longo told the congregation that, “a lot of people know what Dizzy played but they don’t know how he played.” “At this point in time most of the educators and so forth are imitating it,” he says. “They don’t understand the concept, they understand the notes. So they imitate the notes and they try to imitate the feeling, but they’re not coming up with the essence yet. So he’s not fully appreciated yet.” “Might be another 100 years before that happens,” Longo laughs.

40.7127281

-74.0060152

CANBERRA

Australia

Australian leaders honor bicentenary

Australian leaders honor bicentenary CANBERRA, Australia — The Baha’i community of Australia has received messages of greeting from Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and a number of other national and local leaders for the occasion of the bicentenary of the birth of Baha’u’llah. “This is a time for great celebration of Baha’u’llah’s life and His teachings of unity, friendship, and goodwill,” wrote Prime Minister Turnbull. “Ideas of love and acceptance should be cherished and upheld by all Australians, as they are values upon which our nation has become a beacon of harmony and tolerance.” Among the sentiments expressed by these numerous leaders in Australia is the appreciation of how the Baha’i community has been contributing to societal harmony. “The Baha’i community is a vital part of the rich and diverse religious tapestry that makes Australia such a diverse and tolerant society,” wrote Governor General Peter Cosgrove in a message to the Baha’is. “This is a time for great celebration of Baha’u’llah’s life and His teachings of unity, friendship, and goodwill,” wrote Australian Prime Minister Turnbull to the Baha’i community.Mark McGowan, Premier of Western Australia, voiced similar sentiments, writing, “The Western Australian Baha’i community is an active and growing part of our vibrant society, making significant contributions to the social, cultural and religious fabric of our state.” “You have demonstrated beyond doubt that, in multicultural Australia, our diverse communities truly are greater than the sum of our parts,” wrote Bill Shorten, Member of Parliament and Leader of the Opposition.In Australia, a commemoration for the 200th anniversary of the birth of Baha’u’llah for government and civil society leaders will be held on 16 October at the Parliament House in Canberra.

-35.2975906

149.1012676

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

A global mosaic takes shape

A global mosaic takes shape BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — From the island nations dotting the Pacific to the vast lands of the Americas, preparations in tens of thousands of localities for the 200th anniversary of the birth of Baha’u’llah next week are finding expression in a flourishing of activities. Inspired in this momentous period, individuals and communities have been producing original works of art, including film, painting, poetry, and music. Stories of sacrificial and selfless acts of service have multiplied and given rise to countless more. And gatherings of prayer and celebration are already taking place in many parts of the world, bringing together people of all walks of life. A youth group in El Chamizo, Colombia, moved by the teachings of Baha’u’llah on unity and oneness asked for permission to commemorate the bicentenary of His birth at their school. Sixty people, including teachers, parents, and classmates attended the celebration which included moving accounts of Baha’u’llah’s life. Throughout the Democratic Republic of the Congo—one of the first countries in the world to be charged with building a national Baha’i House of Worship—plans for the bicentenary in cities, towns, and villages there are expected to attract vast participation. To begin the period of bicentenary celebrations in the country at the beginning of this month, nearly 900 people paraded three kilometers through the streets of Lubumbashi holding banners and signing songs. Japan has the highest concentration of places of worship in the world. As an act of worship in commemoration of this bicentenary period, the Baha’i community in Yamaguchi has been honoring the spiritual heritage of the city by visiting historic, sacred sites—some of which are over 1,000 years old—and, with a heightened sense of reverence, praying at each. In Papua New Guinea, the remote village of Daga was in need of a photocopier that could print invitations to the bicentenary celebration for thousands of people. A group of friends carried the machine over mountains and through forests, delivering it to the village. It is expected that more than 4,000 people will attend the celebrations next weekend. Bicentenary celebrations at a school in El Chamizo, Colombia Baha’i communities throughout the Netherlands have been enthusiastically planning celebrations in their localities. The national postal service issued two limited edition stamps, designed by the Baha’is in Netherlands, in honor of the momentous occasion. The Dutch Baha’i community has used these stamps to mail invitations for bicentenary celebrations in their country. The Karnataka state of India has been experiencing the worst drought in over four decades, which has significantly impacted the agriculture of the region. Families in the Baha’i community in one village there decided to each set aside a pound of rice, so they would be able to host and feed the entire village of 1,500 during the bicentenary celebrations. In Kazakhstan, the approaching bicentenary has inspired the making of a film about the history of the Faith in the country, beginning with its arrival to the region in the 19th century. The film begins telling the story of the vibrant community of Ishqabad (in modern-day Turkmenistan) that built the first Baha’i House of Worship. The Baha’i community of Ireland has created a series of 95 video clips about the teachings and life of Baha’u’llah, in honor of the 200th anniversary of His birth. One video has been released every day and will continue until the bicentenary. A mosaic of humanity, diverse and noble, carrying out acts of worship and service, can be seen forming across the surface of the planet. The occasion is prompting people the world over to reflect on the life of a Figure Who accepted 40 years of imprisonment and exile to proclaim the oneness of humanity, inspiring generations to contribute to the construction of a peaceful and just world.

LONDON

United Kingdom

Baha'i communities receive more public messages

Baha'i communities receive more public messages LONDON — In connection with the bicentenary of the birth of Baha'u'llah, some Baha'i communities have reached out to local and regional officials and, in certain instances, national leaders to bring to their attention this historic occasion. In some cases, Baha'i communities have extended invitations to them to join in their celebrations. A number of these individuals have sent messages of good will to the Baha'is in their locality, region, or nation. British Prime Minister Theresa May is among a group of leaders in Europe and North America who have addressed letters of encouragement to Baha'is in their countries. Referring to Baha'u'llah, the Prime Minister wrote, "His life, his teachings and his compassion continue to inspire people around the world, and we can all learn from his generosity and wisdom." "The UK Baha'i community is an important part of British society," wrote Prime Minister Theresa May.In the United States, former President Jimmy Carter sent his best wishes to the American Baha'i community. "As many of our people struggle with persistent systemic injustice against African Americans and Indigenous Nations, chronic violence against women, religious conflict, and endless war, the centrality of peace, human equality and religious unity found in the Baha'i writings and activities can serve as an inspiration to those of all faiths and creeds," President Carter wrote in his 10 October message. The President of Austria, Alexander Van der Bellen, addressed a message to the Baha'i community of his country, conveying his best wishes and highlighting certain fundamental principles from Baha'u'llah's teachings and their implications. Messages of appreciation have also been received from the Office of the President of Germany, from the State Secretariat for Religious Affairs in Romania, and from a member of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario and Minister of Research, Innovation, and Science for the Government of that province, whose statement was released in a video.

51.5073219

-0.1276474

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

“Light to the World”: Film about Baha’u’llah released online

“Light to the World”: Film about Baha’u’llah released online BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — “Light to the World,” a film about the life and teachings of Baha’u’llah commissioned by the Universal House of Justice was released today on the official website for the bicentenary commemoration. The film tells the story of Baha’u’llah’s remarkable life and the impact of His teachings on communities around the world. “Light to the World” is available in all the languages of the Bicentenary site: English, Spanish, French, Russian, Chinese (simplified and traditional), Hindi, Persian, Arabic and Swahili. The 51-minute film can be viewed here. A screenshot from “Light to the World” shows a group of young people engaged in community-building activities.

BIC NEW YORK

200th anniversary sparks thoughtful reflections at BIC celebrations

200th anniversary sparks thoughtful reflections at BIC celebrations BIC NEW YORK — The historic 200th anniversary of the birth of Baha’u’llah is being celebrated around the world at every level from the grassroots to the international. Recent receptions held by the Baha’i International Community in New York, Geneva, and Brussels to mark the bicentenary allowed for reflections on the challenges facing humanity today and how insights from Baha’u’llah’s teachings have shed light on them. Participants at the reception in the BIC United Nations Office, New York, for the commemoration of the bicentenary of the birth of Baha’u’llahNew York Addressing the gathering held by the BIC’s United Nations Office in New York, one of the guests of honor, Permanent Representative of Panama to the United Nations Laura Elena Flores Herrera said: “Baha’u’llah asks each of us to develop a sense of world citizenship, and a commitment to stewardship of the earth. As Baha’is, you have the knowledge that can pave the way for a brighter future for generations to come, and now, more than ever, the voices of the followers of Baha’u’llah need to be heard, and those teachings extended beyond that, which I know you work hard at doing every day.” “We look forward to your support and collaboration as together we build a world where there is no place for otherness, where peace is no longer an illusion, and in this way, truly achieving Baha’u’llah’s vision for heaven on earth.” The New York reception on 10 October included a devotional program with excerpts from the writings of Baha’u’llah set to music and a screening of selected clips from a film prepared at the Baha’i World Centre for the bicentenary anniversary. Azza Karam, a senior UN official, spoke warmly of the strong relationship between the BIC and the United Nations. “I wanted to share something that I read in the statement that came out of the Baha’i International Community,” said Dr. Karam in her concluding comments. “‘The needs of this day Baha’u’llah has articulated include, but are not limited to, the equality of the sexes, the independent investigation of truth, the harmony between religion and science, and the elimination of the extremes of wealth and poverty.’ Ladies and gentlemen, I give you the United Nations mandate, in the words of a Prophet. What more powerful words could there be.” Geneva Earlier that day at the BIC UN Office in Geneva, a bicentenary celebration was held at the Hotel de la Paix, where ‘Abdu’l-Baha stayed during his visit to Geneva in 1911. The program included addresses from a number of distinguished guests including Ibrahim Salama, Director of the Human Rights Treaties Division of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. “One of the first quotes that struck me from the Baha’i Faith is that ‘All human beings have been created to carry forward an ever-advancing civilization,’” said Mr. Salama in his remarks. “There are two distinct features, I think, in the Baha’i Faith which are crystal clear. One is this commonality that we are all contributing to something. It is a Faith which is open, and that is the first feature of a healthy contribution to humanity. Secondly, it is a community which is very active in world affairs, social affairs, economic affairs, United Nations affairs, not from within a theological standpoint, but from a humane standpoint,” said Mr. Salama. Joelle Fiss spoke about her earlier exposure to the Baha’i Faith in which she learned about the persecution of Baha’is in Iran. Her comments in the evening addressed the Baha’i idea that religion is progressive in nature, unfolding over time. Speaking of the Baha’i belief in the oneness of humankind, she said, “The idea of universality is striking in the Baha’i Faith.” Ms. Fiss is a member of the Panel of Experts of the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights on Freedom of Religion or Belief and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe.“...we need to show oneness in something real, not only in words, but in practice.”—Jan FigelBrussels The Brussels BIC Office’s reception on 17 October featured keynote speeches from Mairead McGuiness, Vice-President of the European Parliament, and Jan Figel, the European Union’s Special Envoy on Freedom of Religion or Belief outside of the EU. A vivid display of excerpts from the writings of Baha’u’llah superimposed on the colorful paintings of a Baha’i artist provided a striking backdrop for the speakers. “The Baha’i Faith offers a particularly valuable insight into the common spiritual heritage of all people, leaving you open to seek the good in each religion and belief system,” stated Ms. McGuiness. “Recognising our common humanity is something which can lead to better understanding not just between different religious communities, but also beyond national and ethnic barriers. Indeed, this is also the fundamental insight shared by Europe’s founding fathers in the political domain. As your Faith put it: ‘True religion transforms the human heart and contributes to the transformation of society.’” Jan Figel spoke about Baha’u’llah’s teachings on the oneness of humanity and the universality of these values, which have been enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. He said, “The role of religion in individual or community life is about transcendence, spirituality, a sense of living, of orientation in life. But it also means how to relate, religare, religione. It’s about linking together. And here I want to underline that the importance is not to separate from others, but through linking with others understand that there is one world, there is one humanity, and there should be oneness in our minds and hearts if we are sincere followers of one truth.” Speaking of the universal values that bind humanity, he said: “I’m glad that the Baha’i community promotes this approach, because we need to show oneness in something real, not only in words, but in practice.”

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Bicentenary website shifts to focus on 72 hours of celebration

Bicentenary website shifts to focus on 72 hours of celebration BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — The setting of the sun over the Pacific islands of Kiribati a short while ago marked the start of the global commemoration of the bicentenary of the birth of Baha'u'llah. Over this period—spanning a total of 72 hours beginning in Kiribati on 20 October and ending at sunset in Hawaii on 22 October—celebrations will be held in thousands of localities throughout the world. Programs at six Baha'i Houses of Worship will be available for view through a live stream on the official bicentenary website. The first of these will come from the Temple in New Delhi, India, and will begin today at 13:00 GMT. A full schedule of the live streaming program is available on the site. Glimpses of the festivities will be captured through a sampling of stories, photos, and videos on the bicentenary website. A regularly updated feed will show a few of the artistic presentations, service projects, commemorative gatherings, encounters with dignitaries, and other acts undertaken around the world to celebrate the life and teachings of Baha'u'llah. "As the world now faces its most pressing challenges yet, we acclaim Baha'u'llah, born two hundred years ago...as the One Whose teachings will usher in that long-promised time when all humanity will live side by side in peace and unity," the Universal House of Justice wrote in its October 2017 message for the occasion. The period of celebration commemorates the birth of both Baha'u'llah, born 200 years ago in 1817, and the Bab—the forerunner of Baha'u'llah's Revelation—born in 1819. These Twin Holy Days are celebrated on consecutive days as one annual festival. Coverage on the bicentenary website begins soon after 8:00 GMT on 20 October and concludes at 4:00 GMT on 23 October. Documenting for the first time the worldwide events marking the anniversary of the birth of Baha'u'llah, the website will connect the world by providing a vista of some of the thousands of celebrations.

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Sunset brings light over Oceania, Asia, Africa

Sunset brings light over Oceania, Asia, Africa BAHA’I WORLD CENTRE — From Apia to Tokyo to Lubumbashi to Delhi, a striking array of bicentenary celebrations for the birth of Baha’u’llah unfolded throughout the day on Friday. In Samoa and India, celebrations were held at Baha’i Houses of Worship, marking the beginning of the 200-year anniversary of the birth of Baha’u’llah. Countless other commemorations took place among close friends and neighbors. In Akita, Japan, for example, a small group of youth joined a celebration in the home of one their friends, where they watched Light to the World, a recently released film about Baha’u’llah and then made watercolor paintings to embellish quotations from His writings.“I always thought the prominent figures in the past were oppressive towards the weak,” said one of the youth while painting. “I was surprised to learn that Baha’u’llah gave up His wealth to actually help the downtrodden.” In a village near Chiang Mai, Thailand, a student—one of only two Baha’is there—had hoped to invite a few friends and neighbors to a small commemoration at his residence. Unexpectedly, word of the celebration spread throughout the village, prompting a request to hold the gathering in the public community hall instead. More than 60 neighbors joined him to celebrate and watch a screening of Light to the World. The head of the village read before the audience the public message of the Prime Minister of Thailand to the Baha’i community there. Some celebrations were on a larger scale. Hundreds walked together in parades held in a number of cities, including in the Democratic Republic of Congo and in Vanuatu. “Today was a blessing to all,” said one of the participants from the island of Efate in Vanuatu. “It lit up the spirit of the celebration.” Youth in Akita, Japan, gather in a home to celebrate the bicentenary.

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

As the earth turns on its axis, torch is passed on to Europe, Americas

As the earth turns on its axis, torch is passed on to Europe, Americas BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — From a performance by the State Philharmonic Symphony in Azerbaijan, through intimate gatherings in living rooms across Europe and the Americas, to a prayer meeting at a national monument in Washington D.C., moving west across the world, communities carried on the torch of festivities celebrating the light of Baha’u’llah’s life and teachings on the occasion of the bicentenary of His birth. In Norway, Baha’i communities throughout the country coordinated the lighting of beacons in towns and cities from north to south, inspired by the national tradition of burning cairns on mountaintops to signal an important event. While lights dotted the country on Friday night, friends gathered inside their homes to offer prayers and tell stories about the life and person of Baha’u’llah. A map of the trajectory of the beacons can be seen here. A performance from the State Philharmonic Orchestra in Azerbaijan in honor of the bicentenaryA special feature of the last few hours has been the screening of the film Light to the World in every country. “I thought that the video would mostly be about the life and history of Baha’u’llah. But I realized that it’s about how people today have been affected by His teachings and have made them their own. I realized that His words must be something very meaningful since people all around the world have been responding to His words and writings for the past 200 years,” commented one young person after seeing the film in Japan. Another said: “After watching the film, I saw that people all around the world are doing these activities, and I realized how blessed I am to be included among those who have come across and are studying Baha’u’llah’s words.” Receptions with dignitaries and officials were also held in many countries, including Kazakhstan and Austria. Across Moldova, communities held joyful celebrations outside to commemorate the bicentenary. In Santa Tecla, El Salvador, the town hall was packed with people who gathered to watch the film Light to the World. Prayers continued to be offered at the Houses of Worship on every continent, including Frankfurt, and Wilmette. In Santiago, the Temple attracted nearly 5,000 visitors, many participating in services and other events including viewing an exhibition, attending talks, and taking part in children’s activities. Live streaming of events at Houses of Worship will continue throughout the day, beginning with a broadcast from Kampala, Uganda, starting shortly [7:30 GMT, schedule].

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

World illumined by light of bicentenary celebrations

World illumined by light of bicentenary celebrations BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — Two hundred years after the birth of Baha’u’llah, countless communities in every corner of the globe are honoring His compelling vision of a better world. In Iran, the land where Baha’u’llah was born and where His Faith has suffered endless waves of persecution, one of the many simple gestures of unity came from a Muslim family, who offered a beautifully decorated cake as a gift to their Baha’i neighbors in honor of the bicentenary. Particularly poignant was the fact that some members of that family only a generation before had been antagonistic towards the Faith and had even refused to touch Baha’is, believing them to be unclean. Throughout Europe, gatherings both large and small have attracted many participants today. In Paris, at an apartment that was once graced by the presence of ‘Abdu’l-Baha, a small group of dignitaries and other prominent officials met this morning to say prayers together. This intimate event followed a set of round table discussions held by the Baha’i community on social cohesion and inclusion in France. Princess Soamsawali watches a dance performance at a celebration of the 200th anniversary of Baha’u’llah’s birth in Bangkok.Another significant aspect of the bicentenary period in France unfolded in Corsica. For the first time, a selection of Baha’i prayers and writings has been translated into the Corsican language and published in a bilingual Corsican and French book. A musical composition in Corsican can be heard here. In Thailand, the Royal Family was represented by Princess Soamsawali at the bicentenary celebration held at the Baha’i Centre in Bangkok. The evening’s program featured music, prayers, and traditional Thai dances. The gathering was attended by nearly 250 participants and was one of many commemorations held in the country today. At the Aboriginal Friendship Centre in Vancouver, Canada, over 200 participants gathered to commemorate the bicentenary with traditional indigenous dance and music. A dignitary from a local First Nations community welcomed everyone with a prayer in his native language. “I prayed that you would all recognize the truth in Baha’u’llah’s words,” he told the audience afterwards. Baha’is have at times been astounded by the number of their friends and neighbors who wish to participate in celebrations. A community of just ten Baha’is in Ohio received 150 guests at a formal dinner that they hosted yesterday. Across the continent of Africa, communities have been celebrating in every setting, gathering in homes for prayers, meeting in the streets for parades, and holding commemorations that reach thousands of people. These festivities are animated by a spirit of joy—some including singing, drumming, or dancing. The film Light to the World has continued to be screened throughout the weekend in living rooms, cinemas, stadiums, and tents. At Baha’i Houses of Worship across the world, thousands have gathered throughout the weekend for celebrations. A broadcast of the most recent devotional program at the Temple in Wilmette will start at 20:30 GMT and can be live streamed on the official bicentenary website.

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Sunset in Hawaii closes extraordinary period of worldwide celebrations

Sunset in Hawaii closes extraordinary period of worldwide celebrations BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — With sunset in Hawaii moments ago, the period marking the bicentenary of Baha’u’llah’s birth has come to a close. Over the last 72 hours, a cross-section of humanity, unprecendently diverse, in virtually every spot on the globe, joined in a striking diversity of action to commemorate the birth of Baha’u’llah. Countless individuals were inspired by the festivities surrounding the bicentenary and were moved by their encounters with the life and writings of Baha’u’llah. At a celebration of the bicentenary in South AfricaOne of the more than 27,000 visitors who viewed an exhibit on the life of Baha’u’llah held in Frankfurt said, “My wife and I were just talking before we came here about how life was without purpose. But then we visited this exhibition. Here we have found the answer to our purpose in life.” In Suriname, Vice President Ashwin Adhin planned to attend a reception for the bicentenary held at the National Baha’i Centre. After a short program which included prayers, a film about the history of the Faith in Suriname, and a talk, he decided to cancel his plans so he would have time to speak with the Baha’is about community-building in the young country. On the same day, the Baha'i community of Canada received a public message of good-will from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, one of the last of a wide array of such messages received in recent days from officials.Many celebrations throughout the world featured screenings of the film Light to the World, which tells the story of Baha’u’llah’s life and the impact of His teachings. A participant at a gathering in East Asia said, “After watching the film, everyone was saying ‘Baha’u’llah’ with so much ease and comfort...It was as if they had known Him for many years and He was a familiar Figure to them.” At a national celebration in Madrid, one attendee said, “the message of Baha’u’llah is exactly what humanity needs. Listening to these principles is not just a matter of hearing a beautiful message, it is essential for the progress of the human race.”

BIC NEW YORK

Attacks in Yemen and Iran coincide with bicentenary period

Attacks in Yemen and Iran coincide with bicentenary period BIC NEW YORK — Yemeni security forces raided a Baha’i gathering in Sana’a yesterday, opening fire on the small group of people assembled to commemorate the bicentenary of the birth of Baha’u’llah. The attack occurred in the family home of prominent tribal leader Walid Ayyash, who was abducted in April and whose whereabouts are currently unknown. The attackers were reportedly in four cars and an armored vehicle, which they used to break down the front door of the house. They arrested Mr. Ayyash’s brother, Akram Ayyash. “There is now unequivocal consensus about Iran’s role in the persecution of the Baha’is in Yemen, especially in Sana’a, which is currently under the control of Iranian-backed militias,” said Bani Dugal, Principal Representative of the Baha’i International Community at the United Nations. Persecution ramped up in August 2016 when Houthi militias abducted 65 individuals attending Baha’i activities, including six children. Approximately half of those detained were Baha’is. Again in April of this year, a call was issued for the arrest of over 25 Baha’is, including many prominent members of the Baha’i community who assist with organization of community affairs at the national level. Eight Baha’is currently remain detained, and it is unclear where a number of them are being kept. Arrests of Baha’is in Yemen have drawn international censure and, in September of this year, led to a United Nations resolution—introduced by Egypt on behalf of the Arab Group and adopted by the UN Human Rights Council—calling for the immediate release of all Baha’i detainees. Earlier this year, UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief, Ahmed Shaheed, said that the pattern of persecution Baha’is face in Yemen eerily mirrors the pattern of persecution in Iran. The Baha’i community has also been targeted within Iran in the recent bicentenary period. Between 18 and 21 October, some 19 individuals were arrested in Kermanshah, Tehran, and Birjand, and the homes of 25 Baha’is were raided. Twenty-six Baha’i-owned shops around the country were sealed off by authorities because the owners observed the Holy Day on 21 October. These closures occurred in Shiraz, Marvdasht, Gorgan, and Gonbad. “The juxtaposition of these actions with the countless examples of joyful and uplifting celebrations by Baha’i communities around the world couldn’t be more striking. This contrast exposes the ruthless determination of certain authorities in Iran in perpetuating the persecution of the Baha’is and violating their basic human rights both within Iran and outside its borders,” said Ms. Dugal. (Editor’s note: An amendment was made to paragraph 4 on 24 October 2017 in order to explain that not all 65 individuals detained at the Baha’i gathering in August 2016 were Baha’is.)

BIC ADDIS ABABA

Bicentenary celebration at BIC Addis Ababa

Bicentenary celebration at BIC Addis Ababa BIC ADDIS ABABA — As communities throughout the world celebrated the bicentenary of the birth of Baha’u’llah this month, the Baha’i International Community’s Office in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, co-hosted a commemorative gathering on 19 October with the national Baha’i community of Ethiopia. The evening’s program included songs in Ethiopia’s three national languages, the screening of an excerpt from the film Light to the World, and an exhibition of artwork by children inspired by the teachings of Baha’u’llah. The event was attended by about 150 guests, including officials from the African Union, the Ethiopian government, and several UN agencies. One hundred fifty guests gathered at the celebration of the bicentenary of Baha’u’llah’s birth hosted by the BIC’s Addis Ababa Office and the Baha’i community of Ethiopia.In his welcoming address to those present, BIC representative Solomon Belay spoke about the work of the Office in Addis Ababa. “Collaboration and collective inquiry are vital to our efforts to explore questions and challenges with others,” he stated. “How, for example, can broad segments of humanity more meaningfully contribute to the construction of flourishing societies?” asked Mr. Belay. “How will relationships between individuals, communities, and institutions need to be reimagined to more effectively contribute to social progress? How can global efforts be infused with a compelling vision of human prosperity that gives rise to a sense of common purpose?” “By fostering such conversations, we hope to help generate knowledge and new perspectives on global and continental challenges. We take this particular occasion to invite everyone to join hands with us in this process of learning together how to improve the society we are living in.”

BIC NEW YORK

Second member of Yaran released

Second member of Yaran released BIC NEW YORK — Fariba Kamalabadi, a member of the former leadership group of the Baha’is in Iran, recently concluded her unjust, ten-year prison sentence. She is the second individual from among the former Yaran to be released. Although no longer bound by the confines of prison, Mrs. Kamalabadi, a developmental psychologist, will return to life in a country that has not changed with respect to its prejudicial and unjust treatment of Baha’is. She will encounter, among many other forms of oppression, a media landscape that is entirely hostile to the Baha’i community. She will also be extremely limited in her access to opportunities in both the public and private sector for gainful employment simply because she is a Baha’i—a limitation designed and implemented by the government of Iran after the Islamic Revolution in 1979. Mrs. Kamalabadi, 55, was part of the ad-hoc group known as “the Yaran,” or the Friends, which tended to the basic spiritual and material needs of the Iranian Baha’i community and was formed with the full knowledge and approval of authorities there after formal Baha’i institutions were declared illegal in Iran in the 1980s. She and five other members of the group were arrested in May 2008 after an early morning raid on their homes. Another member, Mahvash Sabet, was arrested two months earlier, in March 2008, and was released last month after completing her sentence. Fariba Kamalabadi was recently released from jail, upon concluding her unjust prison sentence.The five remaining members of the Yaran are also expected to complete their sentences in the coming months. They include Jamalodin Khanjani, 84; Afif Naeimi, 56; Saeid Rezai, 60; Behrooz Tavakkoli, 66; and Vahid Tizfahm, 44.

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Bicentenary website to remain resource, inspiration

Bicentenary website to remain resource, inspiration BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — A complete selection of nine video recordings from the celebrations of the bicentenary of the birth of Baha’u’llah held at Baha’i Houses of Worship and sites where future Houses of Worship will be built is now available online. The bicentenary website has captured—through broadcasts, videos, photos, stories, and artistic expressions—the range of celebrations held on every continent. Reports have continued to be published on the website since the 72-hour period of worldwide celebrations ended at 4:00 GMT on Monday 23 October.Among these recently added accounts is a report of a reception in Bahrain that attracted 120 guests, including government officials, religious leaders, writers, and others, focusing on Baha’u’llah’s teachings of unity and peace. Another, from Indonesia, highlights an event in Jakarta attended by a wide swath of the city’s inhabitants, which featured songs, dances, and other cultural programs. Although coverage of events related to the bicentenary has ended and further content will not be added to the site, it will remain available as a source of inspiration to Baha’i communities around the world in their efforts with others to apply Baha’u’llah’s teachings. A classical music performance at a bicentenary celebration in Stockholm, SwedenAs the Universal House of Justice wrote in its October 2017 message for the occasion: “Baha’u’llah calls for good deeds, kind words, and upright conduct; He enjoins service to others and collaborative action. And to the task of constructing a world civilization founded on the divine teachings, He summons every member of the human race.”

WASHINGTON

D.C.

United States

Law conference highlights atrocities against religious minorities

Law conference highlights atrocities against religious minorities WASHINGTON D.C. — Why does it take unimaginable atrocities against religious minorities for the world to respond? “The question requires us to look at the way we deal with oppression today,” stated Diane Ala’i, representative of the Baha’i International Community United Nations Office in Geneva, at a panel discussion on freedom of religion or belief at the Annual Meeting of the American Society of Comparative Law (ASCL) in Washington, D.C., held 26-28 October. Ms. Ala’i pointed to the mechanisms at the UN that aim to defend religious minorities: the appointment of Special Rapporteurs, the resolutions adopted at the Human Rights Council and other such bodies, the Universal Periodic Review, and the utilization of media to raise awareness and bring governments to account, among others. Diane Ala’i, representative of the Baha’i International Community United Nations Office in Geneva, speaks at the Annual Meeting of the American Society of Comparative Law.“Each of these has proven to be effective in curbing extreme persecutions, but there are still limitations when relying only on legal norms and international interventions. There are chronic conditions of oppression that are much more difficult to address. They demand from leaders—especially religious leaders—to take an honest look at how their rhetoric affects social conditions in their countries.” Looking at the rise of religious persecution within a society, she said, “It often begins with ‘othering,’ which is systematically cultivated in society through the development of stereotypes, myths, and lies that are attributed to a minority group.” “It is interesting to note that the lies that are spread are generally very well thought through and culturally designed to tap into primordial fears of the given audience.” The case of the Baha’i community in Iran, in which the calculated, sophisticated process of “othering” that for many decades has allowed clerics, authorities, and the media there to dehumanize the Baha’is in the eyes of the Iranian populace, was used as an example. The challenge in Iran is that the strategy of persecution has shifted over the years in order to make international scrutiny harder. The more visible violations of human rights, like the executions carried out in the 1980s, have been replaced by much more insidious forms which can have more devastating effects. But arbitrary arrests, banning Baha’i youth from higher education, and closing virtually every avenue of economic subsistence to segments of the Baha’i population continue. And these are combined with a prolific media campaign that leaves Iranians no opportunity to get accurate information about the Baha’i community. “These are also devastating, but they do not evoke the same response as an acute outbreak of religious violence,” stated Ms. Ala’i. In this chronic, decades-long condition of oppression, the Baha’i community has responded in a distinctive way. It has not accepted the state of victimhood. It has kept hope, it has forgiven those who have perpetrated these injustices, and it has continued to kindle the love of others in the hearts of its community members. “Despite the vast forces directed at strangulating their community,” she continued, “the Baha’is are gradually winning over a growing number of their fellow Iranians through their attitude, integrity, and their persistent attempts, against all odds, to contribute to the betterment of society with their fellow citizens, shoulder-to-shoulder.” “This is beginning to break down the barrier of ‘otherness.' We are seeing that some fair-minded Iranians have begun to stand up for the Baha’is—not only courageous lawyers and human rights defenders, but also others.”

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LONDON

United Kingdom

Exhibition of Baha’u’llah’s writings opens at British Museum

Exhibition of Baha’u’llah’s writings opens at British Museum LONDON — The British Museum is showing rarely-seen original handwriting of Baha’u’llah, as well as other archival items associated with His life, in commemoration of the 200th anniversary of His birth, which was celebrated around the world on 21 and 22 October. The exhibition opened on Monday 6 November during a reception, attracting over 100 people and bringing together representatives from academia, the arts, and the media. One of the central themes of the exhibition is the power of the Word, which refers to divine revelation, a concept fundamental to the origins of all the world’s great faiths. The British Museum is showing rarely seen original handwriting, as well as other archival items associated with the life of Baha’u’llah. The exhibition opened on Monday 6 November during a reception that brought together representatives from academia, the arts, and the media.Reflected in His many writings, Baha’u’llah’s revelation addresses a vast array of subjects, ranging from the ethical and moral dimensions of the life of the individual to the societal principles and practices that can enable humanity to transition to the next stage of its collective development—the emergence of world civilization. The exhibition’s introductory panel reads, “Baha’u’llah (‘Glory of God’) wrote over 100 volumes of text setting out his vision for humanity: to build a world of peace and justice. Baha’u’llah taught that the ‘Word,’ as revealed to the founders of all the great faiths, could inspire humans to transform society and establish great civilisations.” In His lifetime, Baha’u’llah’s writings were recorded as they were revealed. In some instances, Baha’u’llah, in masterful calligraphy, wrote with His own hand some of the sacred verses that constitute His vast body of writings.“It is quite remarkable to think that such a simple instrument as the reed pen of Baha’u’llah...was the means through which He set out His vision for a united humanity.”—Representative of the UK Baha’i communityOften, Baha’u’llah would recite verses aloud, and these would be transcribed by secretaries. Eyewitness accounts of individuals who observed the manner by which Baha’u’llah’s writings were revealed shed light on the extraordinary nature of these works. To keep up with the large volume of verses, secretaries would rapidly transcribe His words in an often illegible handwriting that only they could read, referred to as “Revelation Writing.” The exhibition includes an example of these original texts. The British Museum is showing rarely-seen original handwriting of Baha’u’llah, as well as other archival items associated with His life, to mark the 200th anniversary of His birth. Here, an example “Revelation Writing” is on display.Later, these texts would be rewritten, at times requiring Baha’u’llah to decipher them, before a final copy was ready to be shared. Baha’u’llah’s writings spread far and wide across the Ottoman and Persian lands and further afield, reaching to the Far East. The display in the British Museum’s John Addis Gallery will be open to the public until 22 January 2018. During a period of worldwide celebrations honoring the bicentenary of the birth of Baha’u’llah, the British Museum exhibition opens another window into His extraordinary life and works and the immeasurable influence that His Word has had on the world.

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UNITED NATIONS

UN condemns Iran’s human rights violations for 30th time

UN condemns Iran’s human rights violations for 30th time UNITED NATIONS — A committee of the United Nations General Assembly today condemned Iran for its continuing violations of human rights, the 30th such resolution since 1985. By a vote of 83 to 30 with 68 abstentions, the Third Committee of the General Assembly approved a five-page resolution expressing concern over illegal practices ranging from torture, poor prison conditions, arbitrary detention, and curbs on freedom of religion or belief to state-endorsed discrimination against ethnic and religious minorities as well as women. The resolution expressed specific concern over Iran’s treatment of members of the Baha’i Faith, the country’s largest non-Muslim religious minority. It highlighted the economic and educational discrimination against them and called on Iran to release the more than 90 Baha’is who are unjustly held in Iranian prisons. “We welcome this resolution and its strong condemnation of Iran’s ongoing human rights violations,” said Bani Dugal, the Principal Representative of the Baha’i International Community to the United Nations. “Despite the Iranian government shifting its strategy of oppression and supporting a vigorous public relations campaign to deny the existence of such violations, the resolution today shows that other governments have not been deceived and that Iran’s failure to heed international law remains high on the international agenda,” said Ms. Dugal. By a vote of 83 to 30 with 68 abstentions, as shown at the Third Committee of the General Assembly, the resolution expressing concern over human rights violations in Iran was approved. Photo credit: UNThe resolution follows a strongly worded document from the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Iran, Asma Jahangir. Her 23-page report, released earlier this session, catalogued a broad range of rights violations by Iran. Ms. Jahangir cited “serious human rights challenges” including “the arbitrary detention and prosecution of individuals for their legitimate exercise of a broad range of rights; the persecution of human rights defenders, journalists, students, trade union leaders, and artists; a high level of executions, including of juvenile offenders; the use of torture and ill-treatment; widespread violations of the right to a fair trial and due process of law, especially before revolutionary courts; and a high level of discrimination against women and religious and ethnic minorities.” She also highlighted the situation of Iranian Baha’is, noting that “members of the Baha’i community have continued to suffer multiple violations of their human rights.” Ms. Jahangir in particular called attention to the case of Farhang Amiri, a Baha’i who was stabbed to death in September 2016 and whose confessed killers were swiftly released on bail. “Despite the fact that they have been documented for years, these violations continue unabated and with full impunity, as shown by the release of the murderer of a Baha'i,” she said, referring to Mr. Amiri. Ms. Jahangir’s report also noted that “thousands of Baha’is have been expelled from their jobs, with their pensions having been terminated, and have been banned from employment in the public sector. “Companies are pressured to dismiss Baha’i employees, banks are forced to block the accounts of Baha’i clients, and Baha’i business licenses are either not issued, not extended, or deliberately delayed.”

AGUA AZUL

Colombia

Community galvanized as Temple’s construction proceeds

Community galvanized as Temple’s construction proceeds AGUA AZUL, Colombia — The local Baha’i House of Worship in Norte del Cauca is rising out of the land, clearly visible to the village that has been awaiting its arrival. Christina Mosquera’s daily bus route from Santander de Quilichao to Puerto Tejada passes through Agua Azul and by the Temple site. Often she hears the route’s travelers, many from neighboring villages, wondering about the edifice under construction. “They ask whether it is a hospital, a recreation center, or a school,” said Ms. Mosquera, a Baha’i from the region who has been involved with the work of the reforestation project on the Temple land. The heightened awareness is connected to recent significant progress on the construction of the House of Worship. The structure has become much more visible to those passing on the road below the Temple site, on foot, by bus, or otherwise. The Temple’s central edifice is now a tangible form—the concrete structure has been completed and nine timber masts have been raised. The masts form the inner dome of the House of Worship and are crowned by a steel ring-beam in which the Greatest Name will be encased. Bonds of unity and cooperation have been strengthened in Norte del Cauca through efforts to build the Temple and strengthen community life.Every day through the window of the bus, Ms. Mosquera has watched the Temple’s construction advance since it began in January. In light of the burgeoning curiosity about the structure, she arranged with her bus drivers to be able to share information about the Temple with fellow passengers. The bus often slows down while passing the property so she has time to speak about the House of Worship. “I tell them that the House of Worship is being built there—a center for all the souls to connect with God, to connect with the creator,” said Ms. Mosquera. “People ask if everyone can really come to the House of Worship, and I tell them yes, everyone can come and pray.” Bonds of unity and cooperation have been strengthened in Norte del Cauca through the processes set in motion by the Temple project and the dynamic community-building activities in surrounding villages and towns. During the recent celebrations for the bicentenary of the birth of Baha’u’llah, the village’s numerous festivities attracted hundreds to activities ranging from acts of service, such as planting 200 trees, to invitations for community prayer and worship.“At a time of so many crises in the region and in the world, the Baha’i House of Worship stands apart for its potential for social good.”—Journalist Raúl CharáA House of Worship expresses the coherence between the natural environment of the region and the life of the community. This relationship is symbolized most visibly through the Temple’s design, which was inspired by the cocoa pod, a plant that grows abundantly in Colombia. Yet many aspects of the Temple project strive to evince this unity through their systems—efforts have been made for the House of Worship and its auxiliary structures, for example, to receive between 70 to 100 percent of their power from solar panel systems. On the land where the House of Worship sits is a forest where the community has been undertaking an initiative to reintroduce native vegetation to the area. The natural flora had been previously decimated by years of monoculture plantations, but in the years since the reforestation project has begun, a number of plants have been recovered, some of which had been thought to be almost entirely lost to the northern region of Colombia. “The Temple is a unique project,” said journalist Raúl Chará at a recent press conference. “At a time of so many crises in the region and in the world, the Baha’i House of Worship stands apart for its potential for social good.”

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VICENZA

Italy

Structure & spirit: Italian museum features Baha’i architecture

Structure & spirit: Italian museum features Baha’i architecture VICENZA, Italy — The Palladio Museum hosted an exhibition this month featuring several of the most iconic buildings of the Baha’i Faith, built with Italian marble. The exhibition, titled “Architecture and Marble: Dialogue Between Ingenuity and Matter,” was organized by Margraf, the Italian company that cut and chiseled the marble for the Seat of the Universal House of Justice, the International Baha’i Archives building, the terraces in the Baha’i Gardens in Haifa, and the Continental Baha’i Houses of Worship in India and Samoa. Formerly known as Industria Marmi Vicentini, the company, which was founded in Chiampo, Italy, was established in 1906. Over the more than 100 years of its existence, it has had the opportunity to work with numerous architects on extraordinary projects. “Among its many big projects all over the world, Marmi Vicentini felt that the work with the Baha’is has been especially meaningful,” said architect Sohrab Youssefian, referring to the special opportunity to explore over the decades how spiritual principles can give rise to new forms of architectural expression, which have touched and inspired hundreds of millions of people. Paolo Marzotto, former president of Industria Marmi Vicentini and 92 years old, cuts the ribbon at the reception opening the Palladio Museum exhibition. On the right is Silvio Xempero, the general director of Margraf.The buildings featured in the exhibition have aimed to reflect the intangibility of the sacred in physical structures. Concepts central to Baha’u’llah’s teachings, such as the oneness of humankind, the essential harmony of science and religion, the coherence between material and spiritual dimensions of life, and the power of the sacred to inspire humanity’s noblest endeavors, are embodied in these architectural feats. “Spirituality is not an abstract thing. It is the noblest matter of man,” said Mr. Youssefian at the exhibition’s opening reception. Having worked with Margraf throughout the decades as a representative of the Baha’i community, Mr. Youssefian was visibly moved by the exhibition, which demonstrated the extraordinary results of many years of fruitful collaboration. “I was struck by the opportunity to reflect again on these architectural achievements,” explained Mr. Youssefian. “They call to mind a verse from Baha’u’llah, in which he says that even the stones of the earth today call humanity to the divine.” The relationship between the work of the Baha’i community and the northeastern region of Italy stretches back to the 1940s when marble from Chiampo was used to build the mausoleum of the Shrine of the Bab. During his ministry, Shoghi Effendi used Chiampo marble for the Monument Gardens in Haifa on Mount Carmel. After his own passing, arrangements were made for the column in London marking the resting place of the Guardian to be fashioned from the same stone. The exhibition included archival materials, such as original designs, charts, documents, photos, and videos. Part of the exhibition was dedicated to the technical evolution of the company’s work, which has advanced significantly over the last century. Hossein Amanat and Fariborz Sahba, two Baha’i architects who designed the featured buildings, were also present at the reception and addressed the audience. “Architecture and Marble: Dialogue between Ingenuity and Matter” was open between 19 October and 19 November 2017, coinciding with the 200th anniversary of the birth of Baha’u’llah, celebrated last month by millions around the world. The exhibition received widespread media coverage in Italy and was attended by around 1,000 visitors—attracting particular attention from those in the field of architecture.

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11.40635425660249

BRASILIA

Brazil

Special session marks bicentenary in Brazil’s Congress

Special session marks bicentenary in Brazil’s Congress BRASILIA, Brazil — In an extraordinary display of solidarity, 10 members of Brazil’s Chamber of Deputies, representing eight political parties, gathered for a special session of Congress to speak, one after another, about the life and teachings of Baha’u’llah. Held in honor of the bicentenary of the birth of Baha’u’llah, the event—referred to as a Solemn Session—brought together over 350 people from 20 of Brazil’s 27 states. Included among them were representatives of two major indigenous groups, who had come on behalf of their people to honor the historic anniversary. “To immerse oneself in Baha’u’llah’s teachings is to be immersed in the purest of humanity’s contributions to the world,” stated Congresswoman Erika Kokay in her remarks at yesterday morning’s event. “The Baha’i community is, in a very concrete sense, intimately aware of the sufferings of humanity and at the same time of the nobility and beauty of the human condition. It is this beauty that gives us hope for the construction of a just and equal world,” she continued. The Solemn Session was attended by over 350 people. During the event, 10 congressmen and women, from eight political parties, spoke about the life and teachings of Baha’u’llah.The special session, which was originally planned for some 50 minutes, ran for nearly two hours, as a series of representatives of the Chamber of Deputies—the lower house of Brazil’s National Congress—explored Baha’u’llah’s teachings for the betterment of the world and shared aspects of His life. Many of them were deeply moved and emotional as they addressed the diverse audience. Noting Baha’u’llah’s central teachings, Congressman Chico Alencar spoke about the importance of the constructive contributions of true religion to social progress. Mr. Alencar also highlighted the sufferings of Baha’u’llah, explaining that throughout His life, Baha’u’llah endured oppression in order to bring teachings that would free humanity from it. Many of the speakers remarked on the extraordinary, rarefied environment of the session. “The atmosphere of reverence, the respect for the sacred, and the unified attention of all present, struck us deeply,” explained Carolina Cavalcanti, representative of the Baha’i community in Brazil. “Many of the congressmen mentioned how unusual it was that representatives from such divergent political parties could find themselves in such a state of agreement. “They found that the teachings of Baha’u’llah connected with their highest aspirations. They saw in these principles what is important for promoting the well-being of humankind,” said Ms. Cavalcanti.In an unusual break in protocol, one of the Congressman presiding over the session, summoned the Secretary of the National Assembly of the Baha’is of Brazil to the podium to address all present. Congressman Luis Couto, who together with his colleague Erika Kokay had called for the Solemn Session, read out the statement of the President of the Chamber of Deputies, Rodrigo Maia, for the occasion: “Many of the teachings of Baha’u’llah are present in our legal system like the equality of men and women, the elimination of prejudices of race, gender, social class, and others. Some of these ordinances that are part of our Constitution were proffered by Baha’u’llah in the nineteenth century.” “Baha’u’llah proposed a world unifying vision as the solution for many of the current troubles of humanity,” continued the statement. “He did this long before the creation of the United Nations, the European Union, and many other mechanisms of global integration. Actually, his objective was loftier than political and commercial alliances. He envisioned the brotherhood of all religions and ethnic groups through the spiritualization of the human character.” Yesterday was not the first time the Baha’i Faith was recognized by Brazil’s highest legislative body. In 1992, a Solemn Session was held to pay tribute to Baha’u’llah on the centenary of His ascension.

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-53.2

BIC NEW YORK

Third member of Yaran completes 10 year sentence

Third member of Yaran completes 10 year sentence BIC NEW YORK — Behrooz Tavakkoli, one of the seven members of the former leadership group of the Baha’is in Iran who were imprisoned due to religious beliefs, has completed his unjust 10-year prison sentence. Mr. Tavakkoli is the third member of the Yaran to leave prison. Mr. Tavakkoli, 66, was part of the ad-hoc group known as “the Yaran,” or the Friends, which tended to the basic spiritual and material needs of the Iranian Baha’i community and was formed with the full knowledge and approval of authorities there after formal Baha’i institutions were declared illegal in Iran in the 1980s. He and five other members of the group were arrested in May 2008 after an early morning raid on their homes. Another member, Mahvash Sabet, was arrested two months earlier, in March 2008. Behrooz Tavakkoli with his wifeAside from Mr. Tavakkoli, Mahvash Sabet and Fariba Kamalabadi have also been released from prison. The four remaining members of the Yaran who are expected to complete their sentences in the coming months include Jamaloddin Khanjani, 84; Afif Naeimi, 56; Saeid Rezai, 60; and Vahid Tizfahm, 44. Mr. Tavakkoli experienced discrimination for being a Baha’i throughout his life, which mirrors the situation for the Baha’i community in Iran in the present day. After studying psychology and serving in the army as a lieutenant, he faithfully cared for the physically and mentally disabled as a government social worker, yet was expelled in the early 1980s because he was a Baha’i. Today, not only are Baha’is excluded from employment in the public sector as well as various professions in the private sector, Baha’i-owned shops and businesses are regularly sealed by the authorities after they are temporarily closed to observe Baha’i Holy Days. In the last few years alone, hundreds of such businesses have been sealed, depriving scores of families of an income. Prior to his current imprisonment, he also experienced intermittent detainment and harassment and, in 2005, was jailed for four months without charge, spending most of the time in solitary confinement. In recent months, arrests of Baha'is have been intensifying in cities such as Kermanshah, Birjand, and Rasht, and today, approximately one-hundred Baha’is are held in prisons across Iran solely because of their religious beliefs. (Editor’s note: On 6 December 2017, two photos were added to the story.)

ISLAMABAD

Pakistan

Faith and peace explored in Pakistan

Faith and peace explored in Pakistan ISLAMABAD, Pakistan — Religion has a unique power to inspire individuals and communities to work for peace. It can reach the roots of motivation and elicit heroic acts of love and service to humanity. This was the central message of the Baha’i representative at the recent International Seerat Conference held in Pakistan on 2 December 2017. More than 1,000 people, including representatives of the Muslim, Christian, Hindu, and Baha’i faiths attended the event organized by the Pakistan Government’s Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony. Representing the Baha’i International Community, Suzan Karaman spoke about the timeliness of bringing together people of diverse religious beliefs. Representing the BIC at the International Seerat Conference, Suzan Karaman spoke about the power of religion to inspire individuals and communities to work for peace.“These kinds of spaces open new possibilities. Here, not only can we discuss the importance of dialogue, unity, and love for humanity, we can also show it in action,” said Ms. Karaman at a special evening gathering on interreligious harmony. “It is important that we learn to draw on the constructive powers of religion to channel human endeavors toward peace,” she continued, as she addressed diverse religious leaders in the session. “The Baha’i International Community and the Baha’i community of Pakistan stand ready to work for peace in Pakistan and the world.” Many representatives at the evening session recognized the challenges posed by intolerance and prejudice and discussed the importance of promoting a culture of mutual respect. “There was a general acknowledgement that all religions emphasize the need to see each other first and foremost as human beings,” said Ms. Karaman, after the event. “This is essential if we are to work for unity and ultimately peace.” In her comments in the evening program, she acknowledged the efforts of many faith communities to contribute to societal harmony and emphasized the concept of love, which lies at the heart of every faith. “The violence being perpetrated in the world in the name of religion has nothing to do with true religion,” she said. The conference took place on the anniversary of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. The President of Pakistan, Mamnoon Hussain, gave the keynote address.

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73.0651511

ABU DHABI

United Arab Emirates

Exploring vistas beyond mere tolerance

Exploring vistas beyond mere tolerance ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates — Hoda Mahmoudi, holder of the Baha'i Chair for World Peace at the University of Maryland, recently joined five other international scholars and a number of faith representatives for a critical exploration of the concept of "tolerance" in socially and religiously diverse societies. The venue was the New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) Institute in the UAE. Titled "Tolerance in the UAE: Histories and Reflections on Religious Tolerance and the Modern Nation-State," the workshop explored how tolerance is deployed and framed in modern states and how that compares with the lived experiences of religious minorities. "The traditional understanding of tolerance does not offer a solution for the increasingly complex issues of our time," said Prof. Mahmoudi in her lecture at the event. She emphasized the need for new theories and conceptions of how society should be organized and how relationships between people should be conceived for the building of deeper and more solid foundations for peace. Current holder of the Baha'i Chair for World Peace, Prof. Hoda Mahmoudi (center), presented at two events in the United Arab Emirates last month."Globalization seems to be pushing aside old institutions that are unable to respond to a rapidly changing world. A new paradigm is needed to explore the axes that divide and to find common areas of understanding that unite," she explained. "This approach allows for the sharing of common characteristics amongst societies, while also accepting that modernity can take on multiple forms and patterns of institutionalization." Prof. Mahmoudi also discussed religion's place in the global transformations under way. "The theory of secularization that was popular in Western academic discourse in the 1960s and 1970s-the idea that as societies became more modern, religion would simply disappear-has been rejected. It is clear that religion remains a central element of the lives of many people in modern societies, and that religious diversity is increasing. "The question is no longer simply the place of religion in the increasingly contested and changing institutional configurations of states and national cultures, but the contribution of religion in the construction and integration of an interconnected global society," she concluded. NYUAD professor Justin Stearns, who co-organized the event, writes that "the workshop brought together representatives of different religious communities in the UAE with academics who work on the roles religion and religious tolerance play in the modern state. "The workshop was successful in putting these two distinct communities into intense conversation and in throwing light on the various historical trajectories of religious communities in the UAE. In addition, the comparative examples that were discussed helped contextualize the promise and limitations of the very concept of tolerance itself." Faith representatives from Muslim, Christian, Jewish, Baha'i, Sikh, and Hindu communities in the United Arab Emirates attended the workshop on 13-14 November 2017. It was one of two events that involved the Baha'i Chair in the UAE that week. The second was a panel on the role of women in creating inclusive societies, held at the Dubai International Financial Center on 18 November. A video about the Baha'i Chair for World Peace is available here.

24.4538352

54.3774014

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Hartmut Grossmann, 1933–2017

Hartmut Grossmann, 1933–2017 BAHA’I WORLD CENTRE — Hartmut Grossmann, former member of the Universal House of Justice, passed away on 17 December in Germany. He was 84 years old. The House of Justice sent the following message to all National Spiritual Assemblies on 17 December.* * *Our hearts are grieved to learn of the passing of our dearly loved former colleague Hartmut Grossmann. A distinguished son of an illustrious father, he poured out his life in uninterrupted service to the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh, as a teacher, pioneer, and member of the National Spiritual Assemblies of Germany and Finland, the Continental Board of Counsellors in Europe, the International Teaching Centre and, ultimately, of the Universal House of Justice. He combined immense personal warmth, generosity of spirit, and serene humility with utter consecration, unwavering obedience, firmness in the Covenant, and vigilance in the protection of the Faith. His cheerfulness and dedication touched and inspired the hearts of all those who crossed his path, and heightened their enthusiasm for service. His tireless efforts to raise pioneers and nurture nascent Bahá’í communities left a legacy that will be felt for generations. We are ardently supplicating at the Sacred Threshold that his noble soul may be richly rewarded and that he may be joyously reunited with his beloved wife, Ursula, who so recently ascended to the Abhá Kingdom. We extend our deepest condolences to his dear daughters, Kerstin, Claudia, Anke, Maren, and Barbara and their families, and will pray that their grieving hearts may be solaced. The friends everywhere are advised to hold befitting memorial gatherings, including commemorative services in his honour in all Houses of Worship. The Universal House of Justice

UNITED NATIONS

For 30th time, UN General Assembly censures Iran for persecution of Baha’is

For 30th time, UN General Assembly censures Iran for persecution of Baha’is UNITED NATIONS — On Tuesday 19 December 2017, the United Nations General Assembly called on Iran to end ongoing violations of human rights, including its persecution of members of the Baha’i Faith, the country’s largest non-Muslim religious minority. The call came in a resolution, adopted by a vote of 81 to 30, with 70 abstentions, that expressed concern over Iran’s ongoing violations of human rights. It was the 30th such resolution since 1985. Among other things, the five-page resolution censured Iran for illegal practices including torture, poor prison conditions, arbitrary detention, curbs on freedom of religion or belief, and state-endorsed discrimination against women and ethnic and religious minorities. United Nations vote tally board for the General Assembly resolution on IranThe resolution expressed specific concern over Iran’s treatment of Baha’is. It highlighted the economic and educational discrimination against them and called on Iran to release the more than 90 Baha’is who are unjustly held in Iranian prisons. The UN resolution urges Iran to cooperate with the UN special rapporteur on human rights in Iran. This year’s report of the special rapporteur, Asma Jahangir, cited “serious human rights challenges” in Iran. A report to the Assembly from UN Secretary General António Guterres this year also expressed serious concern about a wide range of human rights violations by Iran. The Assembly’s Third Committee initially approved the resolution on 12 November 2017; this vote by the Assembly as a plenary body confirms its final adoption. The resolution was sponsored by Canada, and it had 42 co-sponsors.

KHARTOUM

Sudan

African leaders address education, empowerment for children

African leaders address education, empowerment for children KHARTOUM, Sudan — African leaders, concerned with the state of children on the continent, gathered to discuss child rights and welfare at a major biannual summit this month. Government representatives from Sudan, Angola, Cameroon, and Sierra Leone joined United Nations agencies, NGOs, and media organizations at the regional meeting in Khartoum. Among these actors was the Baha’i International Community Addis Ababa Office, which was able to offer a distinct perspective on the subject. “The Baha’i International Community, of course, is not here to create policy,” said BIC Representative Solomon Belay. “However it is our aim to highlight and explore some of the principles underpinning the pressing matter of the welfare and prosperity of children.” These principles include promoting the education of the girl child, preserving the dignity and nobility of every human being, emphasizing the importance of both spiritual and material education, and ultimately the fundamental oneness of humanity. Participants at the gathering of African leaders to address child rights and welfare.This month’s summit was hosted by the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACERWC). It is a space for government and policy leaders to gather and regularly consider the work of the United Nations initiatives to safeguard the rights of children. Although still relatively new, the regional BIC office in Addis Ababa has been endeavoring over the past few years to bring insights from the growing body of experience of the global Baha’i community to the African stage. The work of Baha’i communities throughout Africa prioritizing moral, spiritual, and intellectual education for children informed the BIC’s contribution to the ACERWC summit earlier this month in Khartoum. At the center of the Baha’i contribution to the summit was raising the critical importance of empowering young people, safeguarding their well-being in society, and nurturing a socially-minded generation. “In order to realize the greatest potential of children and youth, it is imperative for society to come together to support the spiritual and moral development of young people on the continent,” said Dr. Belay.

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32.5349123

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

2017: A momentous year for the Baha’i world

2017: A momentous year for the Baha’i world BAHA’I WORLD CENTRE — 2017 was a year of far-reaching developments in the Baha’i world. Houses of Worship Less than a year after the inauguration of the last continental House of Worship in 2016, the first local Baha’i Temple was dedicated in Battambang, Cambodia, in September. “A new dawn is breaking,” wrote the Universal House of Justice about the occasion. Read the coverage of the inauguration ceremony, including an interview with the Temple’s architect.In Norte del Cauca, Colombia, a community is preparing for its own local House of Worship. Construction began in January and has progressed significantly in the months since. Video footage shows the Temple during various stages of construction. In a remarkable moment for the island of Tanna in Vanuatu, the design for the local Temple was unveiled in June. Over a thousand people gathered on the island to celebrate the design’s unveiling. Many of the Tanna’s inhabitants were dressed in traditional costumes to welcome the unveiling of the Temple design in June.Since the continental House of Worship for South America opened to the public just over a year ago, it has received an astonishing 500,000 visitors. Over 75,000 visited in October alone, when the bicentenary celebrations were held. It has also received a number of prestigious architectural awards. But even more striking than these recognitions and the hundreds of thousands of visitors is the timeliness of a structure that embodies the concepts of unity and oneness. A striking sight from July—the House of Worship surrounded by snowBicentenary The 200th anniversary of Baha’u’llah’s birth created a moment of pause. It offered not only a chance to celebrate His life, but also an opportunity to reflect on the implications of His teachings for the life of humanity and to look back at the emergence of the world religion He founded, tracing its unfoldment from tumultuous origins in 19th century Persia to its rise as a global faith that unites an incredibly diverse set of communities in one common enterprise. Celebrations of the bicentenary were captured on bicentenary.bahai.org.The aim of Baha’u’llah’s teachings is essentially this bringing together of humanity to contribute to the emergence of a world civilization founded on the recognition of the oneness of mankind. “Baha’u’llah asks each of us to develop a sense of world citizenship, and a commitment to stewardship of the earth. As Baha’is, you have the knowledge that can pave the way for a brighter future for generations to come, and now, more than ever, the voices of the followers of Baha’u’llah need to be heard,” said Permanent Representative of Panama to the United Nations Laura Elena Flores Herrera at the Baha’i International Community bicentenary gathering held in New York. A gathering in Santa Tecla, El Salvador, to commemorate the bicentenary of Baha’u’llah’s birth Thai Princess Soamsawali watches a dance performance at a celebration of the 200th anniversary of Baha’u’llah’s birth in Bangkok.A film produced for the occasion, Light to the World, was shown at screenings in every corner of the earth in settings from homes to theaters to stadiums. “After watching the film, I saw that people all around the world are doing these activities, and I realized how blessed I am to be included among those who have come across and are studying Baha’u’llah’s words,” said one young person in Japan after viewing the film. Glimpses of the remarkable celebrations from around the world are captured on bicentenary.bahai.org, where a letter from the Universal House of Justice written for the occasion is also available.Engaging with society Messages from some 200 public officials written on the occasion of the bicentenary were received by Baha’i communities around the world. Over 30 of these letters of recognition and support came from heads of state and government, and many addressed the contribution of Baha’is to the promotion of peace, social cohesion, equality, and education. Some of leaders that addressed messages of support and recognition to the Baha’i community on the occasion of the bicentenary included heads of state and government. Top (left to right): Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi; Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Theresa May; and first President of Zambia Kenneth Kaunda. Bottom (left to right): Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina; Prime Minister of Singapore Lee Hsien Loong; and former American President Jimmy Carter.At various gatherings attended by government leaders, NGOs, and faith groups, the Baha’i community offered its contribution to pressing matters, such as the role of religion in society, migration, peace, the environment, education, and gender equality. Brazil’s Chamber of Deputies, the Lower House of its National Congress, held a special event to honor the bicentenary of the birth of Baha’u’llah. Aydan Özoguz, Germany’s State Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Integration, speaking at an event co-hosted by the Baha’i community of Germany and the Anne Frank FoundationArts, culture, and publications From exhibitions at well-known museums to celebrations of the contributions of artists, 2017 provided a glimpse of the power of the spiritual to inspire art. Countless creative expressions welled up from the grassroots in commemoration of the bicentenary of Baha’u’llah’s birth. A classical music performance at a bicentenary celebration in Stockholm, SwedenFrom May through September, a retrospective of Baha’i artist Mark Tobey’s work was on display at the Guggenheim museum in Venice. Also at museums this year, an exhibition of Baha’u’llah’s writings opened at the British Museum in London. In Italy, the firm Margraf hosted a display at the Palladio Museum of several of the most iconic buildings of the Baha’i Faith, built with Italian marble. Handwriting of Baha’u’llah on display at the British MuseumRenowned Baha’i musician Dizzy Gillespie, who would have been 100 this year, was remembered in multiple tribute concerts around the world. An interview with Gillespie’s longtime friend and colleague offered a look into the way the spiritual and social principles of the Faith influenced his music. This year saw many publications from the Baha’i community. In January, Days of Remembrance, a compilation of Baha’u’llah’s writings for holy days was released for the first time in preparation for the bicentenary. A new edition of The Baha’is magazine was published in September, and an official website for the Baha’i community of Iran went online in February. Also on the web, the Baha’i World News Service launched a redesign of its website in March accompanied by a mobile application and podcast; the Baha’i Media Bank released a new collection of images in September; and the bicentenary website, which remains online as a historical record, captured celebrations from around the world. A new edition of The Baha’is was published in September. Copies can be ordered online at the U.S. Baha'i Distribution Service website.Persecution of the Baha’i community Throughout this year, which encompassed many occasions for celebration, Baha’i communities in Iran and Yemen continued to face persecution. A group of five Baha’i women prisoners and five other prisoners of conscience created a white silk crochet in honour of the bicentenary. They then used the crochet to create a photographic composition to give voice to their sentiments.In April, authorities in the city of Sana’a ordered the arrest of over 25 Baha’is, including prominent tribal leader Walid Ayyash, whose whereabouts are still unknown. During the bicentenary, security forces raided a small Baha’i gathering, opening fire and arresting Akram Ayyash, Walid’s brother. “The juxtaposition of these actions with the countless examples of joyful and uplifting celebrations by Baha’i communities around the world couldn’t be more striking,” said Bani Dugal, Representative of the BIC United Nations Office New York. Persecution in Iran continued unabated throughout the year, including the systematic denial of university education to Baha’i youth, economic oppression of the Baha’i community, and other human rights violations. As ten years of unjust imprisonment drew to a close, authorities began to release the former members of the Yaran, an ad-hoc leadership group that previously administered the affairs of the Baha’i community in Iran. They were arrested in 2008. The group was formed with the full knowledge and approval of the authorities after formal Baha’i institutions were declared illegal in Iran in the 1980s. Mahvash Sabet, 64, Fariba Kamalabadi, 55, and Behrooz Tavakkoli, 65, have completed their prison sentences and left jail; however, four members still remain in prison. Mahvash Sabet (left) and Fariba Kamalabadi (right) both recently concluded unjust prison sentences, on account of being members of the ad-hoc group known as the Yaran.

SANA’A

Yemen

Outcry over appalling death sentence of Yemeni Baha’i

Outcry over appalling death sentence of Yemeni Baha’i SANA’A, Yemen — Over 100 known activists, lawyers, and leaders of thought have raised their voices over the past week in protest of the ordered death sentence of Yemeni Baha’i Hamed bin Haydara, unjustly imprisoned four years ago for his religious beliefs. Mr. Haydara was sentenced to public execution by the Specialized Criminal Court in Sana’a on 2 January. The local judge also called for the dissolution of all elected Baha’i institutions, placing the entire Baha’i community in imminent danger. Yet, in the wake of this outrageous sentence in Sana’a, a city controlled by the Houthis, a wave of support throughout the region for the Baha’i community in Yemen has gained momentum. Particularly noteworthy has been the response in the Arab world. Prominent media organizations there have publicized the case, characterizing the charges against Mr. Haydara as a clear and serious violation of human rights. A petition was launched and has so far gathered numerous signatures of leaders and well-known individuals in the region. The Yemeni Initiative for Defending Baha’i Rights, an activist group that was formed in April, has reached tens of thousands in the country through publishing posts about the case. “Numerous reports clearly point to the insidious involvement of the Iranian authorities in Yemen’s persecution of the Baha’i community,” said Bani Dugal, Representative of the Baha’i International Community United Nations Office in New York. This ruling is unprecedented in the persecution of the Baha’is in Yemen and mirrors acts of injustice faced by the Baha’i community in Iran. Mr. Haydara was arbitrarily arrested at his workplace on 3 December 2013 and has been in prison since. His case has been notable for its complete lack of due process. The Yemeni Baha’i community has been increasingly persecuted by the authorities in Sana’a in recent years. Currently, six other Baha’is are in prison in Sana’a and have been denied basic human rights.

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44.2058841

KINSHASA

Democratic Republic of the Congo

A vision of peace: Stories from the Democratic Republic of the Congo

A vision of peace: Stories from the Democratic Republic of the Congo KINSHASA, Democratic Republic Of The Congo — The sun rises in the Congolese village of Ditalala, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air. For generations, the people of this village have been drinking coffee, which they grow themselves, before heading out to work on their farms. Over the past few years, this morning tradition has come to take on a deeper significance. Many families in the village have been inviting their neighbors to join them for coffee and prayers before starting the day. “They’ve transformed that simple act of having a cup of coffee in the morning,” says a recent visitor to Ditalala, reflecting on her experience. “It was truly a community-building activity. Friends from the neighboring houses would gather while the coffee was being made, say prayers together, then share the coffee while laughing and discussing the issues of the community. There was a sense of true unity.” Neighbors enjoy a morning coffee together in Ditalala.The central African nation of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has experienced, for over a century, a series of violent struggles. The most recent war from 1998–2002 is estimated to have claimed over 5.4 million lives, making it the world’s deadliest crisis since World War II. For the last two years, it has been the country with the highest number of people displaced by conflict—according to the United Nations, approximately 1.7 million Congolese fled their homes due to insecurity in the first six months of 2017 alone. Yet, there are communities throughout the country that are learning to transcend the traditional barriers that divide people. Inspired by Baha’u’llah’s teachings, they are striving for progress both material and spiritual in nature. They are concerned with the practical dimensions of life, as well as with the qualities of a flourishing community like justice, connectedness, unity, and access to knowledge. “What we are learning is that when there are spaces to come together and discuss the teachings of Baha’u’llah in relation to the challenges facing their community, people will come and consult about what we can do together to find solutions to our problems,” reflects Izzat Mionda Abumba, who has been working for many years with educational programs for children and youth. “When everyone is given access to these spaces, there is nothing that separates us—it’s no longer about who are Baha'is and who are not Baha'is. We are all reading these writings and in discussing them we find the paths to the solutions for whatever we are doing. Inspiration comes from these writings and directives,” he says. The story of this country is a remarkable one. The process which is unfolding seeks to foster collaboration and build capacity within all people—regardless of religious background, ethnicity, race, gender, or social status—to arise and contribute to the advancement of civilization. Among the confusion, distrust, and obscurity present in the world today, these burgeoning communities in the DRC are hopeful examples of humanity’s capacity to bring about profound social transformation. In Ditalala, villagers prepare for the day by gathering for prayers.A path to collective prosperity The village of Walungu is in South Kivu, a province on the eastern side of the country, bordering Rwanda and Burundi. In recent years, a spirit of unity and collaboration has become widespread among the people of Walungu. They pray together in different settings, bringing neighbor together with neighbor, irrespective of religious affiliation. This growing devotional character has been complemented by a deep commitment to serving the common good. At the heart of Walungu’s transformation has been the dedication of the village to the intellectual and spiritual development of the children. Walungu is a remote area of the country. Years ago, the community was not satisfied with the state of formal education available for their children. In response, a group of parents and teachers established a school in the village with the assistance of a Baha'i-inspired organization that provides teacher training and promotes the establishment of community-based schools. Distinct from traditional educational institutions, community schools, such as the one in Walungu, are initiated, supported, and encouraged by the local community. Parents, extended family, other members of the community, and even the children have a deep sense of ownership and responsibility for the functioning of their school. When the school opened in 2008, it was comprised of only one grade taught by a single teacher. After a year, the community was able to add another grade and employ a second teacher. Gradually, the school grew, adding more students, grades, and teachers. Today, it is a full primary school with over 100 students. A teacher presents a lesson in a community school in Walungu, Democratic Republic of Congo.However, the community faced certain challenges as the school began to grow larger. They did not have the funds to pay the teachers a salary or take care of the school. Realizing that something needed to be done to support the school financially, they called a meeting with all the parents and others involved. At the meeting, the director of the school suggested that he could teach them how to weave baskets, and that if they could sell the baskets in the market they would have some funds that could be used to pay the school fees. Sixty-seven parents signed up, happy at the prospect of learning a new skill and being able to support their children’s education themselves. To this day, all of them are still weaving baskets, which are sold in the markets of the surrounding villages. Basket-weaving has remained a collective activity—typically, the parents gather to work on them together, sometimes teaching each other new weaving techniques. And these gatherings have become something more. They are a space to talk about spiritual and profound matters as well. “The women and men are not coming only to weave,” explains Mireille Rehema Lusagila, who is involved in the work of building healthy and vibrant communities. “They begin with a devotional meeting, they read holy writings together. They are improving their literacy, teaching each other how to read and write. The people there have told me that this activity is helping them not only to progress in a material sense but also on a spiritual level.” Members of the community in Walungu weave baskets and sell them in the markets to raise funds for the functioning of their community school.Towards unity, youth lead the way Along the eastern border of the country in the Kivu region, young people are taking ownership of the development of the next generation. In the village of Tuwe Tuwe, there are 15 youth working with some 100 young adolescents and children, helping them to develop a deep appreciation for unity and navigate a crucial stage of their lives. For several years, youth have been at the vanguard of transformation in this community. In 2013, a group of young Baha'is and their friends returned from a youth conference with a great desire to resolve the tension and hostility between their villages.“We believe that our villages are capable of...living like the children of one same family.”—Youth in Tuwe TuweAt the conference, the group studied themes essential to a unified community, such as the importance of having noble goals, the idea of spiritual and material prosperity, the role of youth in serving and improving their localities, and how to support each other in undertaking meaningful action. In reflecting on the experience, Mr. Abumba, who travels often in the region to support Baha'i-inspired educational programs, shares a story about how these young people became a force for unity. “When these youth returned to their respective communities they saw that hostilities were increasing between their two villages because of conflict over their agricultural fields. The youth asked themselves: ‘what can we do to find a solution and help the adults understand that we should live in harmony?’ And they decided to take action together,” says Mr. Abumba. “The idea they came up with was to organize a football match involving the youth of both villages and to hold it in a field between the villages, in the hopes that the parents would come and watch. For them, it was not about who would win or lose the match. Their goal was to bring a large number of people from both villages together to the same place and to try to give a message about how to live in unity.” These young people prepared for the match—they bought a football and created the teams of each village with members of different tribes. Finally, the moment came. Quite a big crowd from both villages turned up because it was a Sunday. Those watching were impressed by the way the youth played for the joy of the game. “Then at the end of the match, the youth spoke to the crowd,” explains Mr. Abumba. “They said ‘You have seen how we played and how there was no conflict between the youth of one village and the youth of the other village. And we believe that our villages are capable of this, of living like the children of one same family.’ Then the chiefs of the villages took the stage and told those gathered that it was time to turn a new page and start to live and work together. “In these villages, there are different tribes who are often in conflict,” Mr. Abumba concludes. “The people there are drawing on the teachings of Baha’u’llah to find ways to address these deep-rooted problems. And the Baha'i-inspired educational programs are giving youth in particular a voice to be a force for positive change in their communities.” A village named ‘Peace’ A remote village in the central part of the country, Ditalala is connected to the closest town by a 25 kilometer path, sometimes travelled on foot, sometimes via off-road vehicle. Susan Sheper, who has lived in the DRC since the 1980s, recalls that on her first visit to Ditalala 31 years ago, some Baha'is had come to meet her at the train and walk with her on the five-hour journey by foot to the village. “We got off the train and were just enveloped by this group of singing, happy Baha'is, and then they said to us, ‘Can you walk a little bit?’” And with that Mrs. Sheper was on her way, with an escort of singing Baha'is, walking 25 kilometers through the night. “It was an extraordinary experience,” Mrs. Sheper recalls, “and they never stopped singing, they would just move from one song to the next. You know, they have that experience of having to walk long distances, and it’s the singing that keeps you going because your feet just move to the rhythm.” Music infuses every aspect of life in the village.Although at that time there was a vibrant Baha'i community in the village, which used to be called Batwa Ditalala, there were distinct barriers between different groups, including the Baha'is. “So flash forward 31 years, and I went back to Batwa Ditalala,” says Mrs. Sheper. “And one of the things I learned very quickly was that it was no longer called Batwa Ditalala.” The term Batwa refers to the Batwa people, who are one of the main “Pygmy” groupings in the Democratic Republic of Congo. They have been marginalized and exploited because of discrimination against them based on their hunter-gatherer way of life and their physical appearance. This has created a complex reality of prejudice and conflict wherever they live in close proximity to settled agricultural populations. “But today, those barriers have been so broken down by Baha’u’llah’s teachings of oneness and the elimination of prejudice, they no longer call the village Batwa Ditalala. They just call it Ditalala,” Mrs. Sheper explains. The word ditalala means peace in the local language—and the village itself has been transformed by a vision of peace. “The people there told me that there used to be very distinct divisions between them in the village, but that because of Baha’u’llah’s teachings they don’t see themselves as different tribes anymore, they see themselves as being united,” Mrs. Sheper relates. “They told me that life is much better when there is no prejudice.” Baha’u’llah’s teachings have reached almost everyone in Ditalala and their influence is evident in many dimensions of the lives of the population. Today, over 90 percent of the village participates in Baha'i community-building activities, ranging from coffee and prayers in the mornings to spiritual and moral education classes for people of all ages. Ditalala’s chief often supports the activities of the Baha'i community. He encourages the community to gather for consultation, a central feature of decision-making for Baha'is. Chiefs in the village of Ditalala, Democratic Republic of CongoThe people have also undertaken a number of endeavors to improve their social and material well-being, including agricultural, maternal healthcare, and clean water projects; constructing a road; and establishing a community school. A luminous community Throughout the DRC, tens of thousands of people have responded to the message of Baha’u’llah. The celebrations of the 200th anniversary of His birth in October were extraordinarily widespread—countless numbers participated in the festivities held across the country. It is estimated that as many as 20 million people saw the television broadcast of the national commemoration, attended by prominent government and civil society leaders. The country has also been designated by the Universal House of Justice as one of two that will have a national Baha'i House of Worship in the coming years. Amidst all of its recent developments, what stands out so vividly about the community is that it is moving forward together.

-4.3217055

15.3125974

NEW DELHI

India

New educational facility opens at Baha’i Lotus Temple

New educational facility opens at Baha’i Lotus Temple NEW DELHI, India — The Baha’i House of Worship is an institution at whose heart is the intimate connection between worship of God and service to humanity. At the Lotus Temple in New Delhi, this relationship is becoming more tangible with the inauguration of a new educational center on its grounds. “The purpose of this center is to build community,” explains Shaheen Javid, General Manager of the House of Worship. The educational facility, which can accommodate hundreds, will be used to host camps, courses, and seminars for youth and young adults who are involved in efforts to improve their communities. Inspired by the Baha’i principles of oneness of humankind and justice, thousands of youth in Delhi are at the heart of far-reaching community-building activities. Throughout the city, these young people are teaching classes for the spiritual education of children that develop in them a deep appreciation for the unity of all peoples, races, and religions. They also work with junior youth to develop their powers of expression and their capacities for service to their communities.“The purpose of this center is to build community.”—Shaheen Javid, General Manager of the House of WorshipBeyond their commitment to the next generation, many youth also organize prayer gatherings that bring neighbors together and foster social harmony, and they host and participate in classes that enable adults to explore the spiritual nature of existence and to take concrete action in service to their communities and society. “These young people who are engaged in this process are coming to realize the importance of spiritual progress,” said Carmel Tripathi, the Director of the Office of Public Information at the House of Worship. “Now, when they are able to study at the new facility, they can start every day with prayers in the Temple. “They are working together to transform their inner lives and outer conditions.” Baha’i Houses of Worship are referred to as “the dawning-place of light” by ‘Abdu’l-Baha.The need for more spaces to gather, work, study, and pray has begun to emerge as the number of youth moved by this vision of unity and peace has grown in New Delhi. Previously, programs, seminars, and courses would be held on the grounds of the House of Worship on an ad hoc basis, using facilities that had been built there for other purposes, such as the accommodation of the Temple’s staff. With the opening of the new educational facility, many more will be able to attend these programs than was possible before. “To have such a dynamic and flourishing movement of young people dedicated to service to their communities, many of whom come from the surrounding neighborhoods, meeting and learning together right here in the shadow of the Temple is something very special. It’s giving us a glimpse of what it means to have a House of Worship where a community can come to be focused on service and united in prayer,” said Tabriz Alam, who assists with the coordination of Baha’i educational efforts in New Delhi. Beyond the opening of the educational facility, there have been other important developments at the House of Worship. Access to the Temple in New Delhi has been recently made easier by the opening of a new metro line with a stop in close proximity. The last time metro access was improved, in 2010, the number of annual visitors to the Temple grew from around 3 million to 5.6 million. Staff at the House of Worship anticipate a similar jump in numbers with the opening of the new line. The Temple in New Delhi, which opened in 1986, receives 10,000–15,000 visitors on weekdays and over 35,000 on weekends. It is one of eight continental Baha’i Houses of Worship throughout the world. These edifices, including the local and national Temples that are beginning to emerge, embody the concepts of unity and oneness, and stand as lights in their communities.

28.6138954

77.2090057

BIC NEW YORK

Poverty eradication only possible with structural transformation, says BIC

Poverty eradication only possible with structural transformation, says BIC BIC NEW YORK — Ending poverty demands more than modifications in social and economic policies, no matter how skillfully conceived and executed these may be. It requires a profound rethinking of how the issue of poverty is understood and approached. This idea was at the heart of the remarks of a representative of the Baha’i International Community that opened the 56th UN Commission for Social Development on 29 January 2018. “Humanity’s collective life suffers when any one group thinks of its own well-being in isolation from that of its neighbors,” said Daniel Perell, BIC representative and chairperson of the NGO Committee for Social Development, during the opening session of the conference in New York City. “Rejection of this foundational truth leads to ills that are all too familiar,” continued Mr. Perell. “Self-interest prevails at the expense of the common good. Unconscionable quantities of wealth are amassed, mirrored by reprehensible depths of destitution.” The United Nations’ 56th Commission for Social Development runs from 29 January to 7 February 2018.The 56th session of the Commission for Social Development, which concludes on 7 February, focuses on strategies for eradicating poverty. It explores many dimensions of this complex and vexing issue, including the necessity of realizing the equality of women and men, the promise and potential pitfalls of technology, issues of disability and inclusion, as well as the special role of families, communities, and youth. The BIC prepared a statement for the Commission calling for a profound shift in thinking. Referring to the Commission’s aim of “eradicating poverty to achieve sustainable development for all,” the statement explains that it “is not simply a matter of expanding access to material resources, challenging as that can be. Rather, it is an endeavor of structural and social transformation on scales never attempted before. And the magnitude of that work calls for new ways of understanding individual human beings and society as a whole.” The statement goes on to challenge the largely unquestioned assumption that a major obstacle to addressing poverty is a scarcity of material resources in the world. “(A)t the systemic level, the assumption that ‘there isn’t enough money’ fundamentally misreads the relevant realities of the world. Financial resources are becoming increasingly concentrated in certain segments of society,” writes the BIC in its statement. “The challenge, then, is not one of scarcity, but rather the choices and values that must inform the allocation of resources.” Beyond the question of financial resources, the BIC statement highlights the vast capacity latent in humanity to transform the world and ultimately solve its most perplexing challenges. To move in this direction, however, implies a new paradigm of thought, in which all people are seen as reservoirs of capacity that, when enabled, can contribute to the betterment of the world. Many other organizations and individuals at the Commission are similarly questioning the prevailing patterns of thinking and action in efforts to end poverty. Former Director-General of the International Labour Organization and keynote speaker Juan Somavía, for example, spoke during the Commission about the need to revisit how people living in poverty are perceived. “Empowering people to be part of the process is not a mechanical thing, because you respect people, you understand that the dignity and the value of the human being is absolutely essential,” he said. “They have not lost their dignity because of the situation in which they find themselves, and they do not see themselves as a statistic.” Speaking on the event, Mr. Perell commented, “the Commission continues to have great potential. It is a pleasure to be among so many government and civil society representatives who are proactively searching for new solutions and increasingly questioning the consequences of current structures. The test will be the degree to which these conversations can be further advanced at the international level and, perhaps more importantly, can begin reshaping thinking and practice at the national and local community levels.”

BIC GENEVA

Leading lawyers take Iran to task

Leading lawyers take Iran to task BIC GENEVA — In an open letter released yesterday, 25 prominent intellectuals and experts in human rights law called on Mohammad Javad Larijani, Head of the High Council for Human Rights in Iran, to acknowledge the long-standing state-sponsored persecution of Baha’is in Iran in light of newly-released and abundant evidence. Publication of the letter was first reported earlier today by British newspaper The Times. The letter follows the recent launch of the Archives of Baha’i Persecution in Iran website, which compiles thousands of official documents, reports, testimonials, and audio-visual materials revealing irrefutable proof of relentless persecution. The new site was created in response to rising interest within and outside Iran to understand the depth and breadth of the persecution of Iran’s Baha’is. Mr. Larijani has in the past brazenly denied that Baha’is are persecuted in Iran. The signed letter released today cites, as an example, Mr. Larijani's false statement in October 2014 at Iran’s Universal Periodic Review at the UN, during which he claimed that Iranian Baha’is “are dealt with under the so-called citizenship contract” and “enjoy all the privileges of any citizen of Iran.” “The records found on the new website, however, present a different story," states the letter. Drawing on the body of evidence on the site, the signatories call on Mr. Larijani to “ensure justice, to examine the website, and reconsider...previous statements.” A court verdict from the government’s Department of Justice regarding the murder of a Baha’i man which states that, “as the victim was a Baha’i at the time of accident… and the fact that the provision of blood money [diyeh] is only legally applicable to Muslims,” the accused is acquitted of charges.The information available on the archival website covers a wide range of violations by Iranian authorities, documenting systematic discrimination, arrest and imprisonment, execution, economic oppression, denial of education, acts of destruction and violence, and incitement to hatred.“(H)ow can the prevention of thousands of young people from access to university be considered fair?”—Open letter signed by 25 experts in human rights lawThe letter reminds Mr. Larijani that the Iranian Constitution requires the government and Muslims “to treat the non-Muslim individuals with good conduct, in fairness and Islamic justice, and must respect their human rights.” It pointedly asks, “(H)ow can the prevention of thousands of young people from access to university be considered fair? How can Islamic justice be upheld when efforts are made to exclude an entire community from participating in the economic life of their own country?” “Such a diverse array of prominent individuals interceding on behalf of the Baha’is in Iran is deeply moving,” commented Diane Ala'i, representative of the Baha’i International Community to the United Nations in Geneva. “We hope others will peruse the contents of this new website and respectfully raise their voices so that the Iranian authorities may give due consideration to the requirements of justice and truthfulness and take appreciable steps to bring the longstanding, systematic persecution of the Baha’is in Iran to an end.” The open letter’s co-authors come from Brazil, Canada, Germany, India, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Further information can be found at www.bic.org.

BIC GENEVA

Champion of justice Asma Jahangir leaves legacy of courage

Champion of justice Asma Jahangir leaves legacy of courage BIC GENEVA — The Baha’i International Community has expressed its condolences for the passing of Asma Jahangir, United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in Iran and greatly-admired champion of the dignity and rights of all people. She passed away at the age of 66 in Lahore, Pakistan, on Sunday 11 February. Mrs. Jahangir was highly regarded for her longstanding dedication to human rights and women’s rights throughout her life. She served as Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary, or arbitrary executions from 1998 to 2004. Following this, she was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2005, during her time as the Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief from 2004 to 2010. She was the first female leader of Pakistan’s Supreme Court bar association. “Asma Jahangir was a staunch defender of the rights of the Baha’is in Iran from the time that she was Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief,” said Diane Ala’i, Representative of the BIC United Nations Office in Geneva. “It was she who courageously brought to light the 29 October 2005 letter signed by the Chairman of Command Headquarters of the Iranian Armed Forces that ominously asked that Baha’is be identified and monitored,” Ms. Ala’i said. “With her passing, humanity has lost a true champion of justice.” Following her death, heartfelt tributes to her life have been expressed by people from around the world.

BIC NEW YORK

Fourth member of Yaran released

Fourth member of Yaran released BIC NEW YORK — After ten years of unjust imprisonment for his beliefs, Saeid Rezaie, one of the seven members of the former leadership group of the Baha’is in Iran, has today completed his wrongful sentence. Mr. Rezaie and six of his colleagues were arrested in 2008 after an early-morning raid on their homes. They were part of the ad hoc group known as “the Yaran” (the Friends) which tended to the basic spiritual and material needs of the Iranian Baha’i community. The group was formed with the knowledge and tacit approval of authorities after formal Baha’i institutions were declared illegal in Iran in the 1980s. Mr. Rezaie is the fourth individual from among the former Yaran to be released. Now, after ten years, he returns to a society that has changed little in terms of its treatment of the Baha’i community. “Although Mr. Rezaie and three other members of the Yaran have been released, the persecution of the Baha’is in Iran continues unabated,” said Diane Ala’i, Representative of the Baha’i International Community to the United Nations in Geneva. “From prison, Mr. Rezaie will go back to a community that is still under immense pressure from the government and faces discrimination and persecution for no other reason than belief in the Baha’i Faith.” Saeid Rezaei completed an unjust 10-year prison sentence today.Before he was imprisoned, Mr. Rezaie, who is an agricultural engineer, ran a successful farming equipment business. He is one of the many members of the Baha’i community who has suffered injustice as a result of economic-related persecution. Baha’i-owned shops and businesses are regularly closed by the authorities after owners are harassed. In the last few years, hundreds of such businesses have been closed and scores of families have been deprived of an income. In an open letter to President Hassan Rouhani, the BIC referred to this discrimination as “economic apartheid.” The three remaining members of the Yaran are expected to complete their sentences in the coming months. They include Mr. Jamaloddin Khanjani, 84; Mr. Afif Naeimi, 56; and Mr. Vahid Tizfahm, 44. For more information, go to bic.org.

DUBLIN

Ireland

Irish President urges Baha’is to press on

Irish President urges Baha’is to press on DUBLIN, Ireland — The President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins, hosted a delegation of some fifty Baha’is, including children, youth, and adults, at a reception on 12 February at his official residence. During the gathering, which was hosted to celebrate the bicentennial year, President Higgins offered remarks, commenting warmly on his association with the Baha’i community and highlighting the teachings and principles of the Baha’i Faith. Speaking of the Baha’i principle of the oneness of humankind, President Higgins said, “It is this commonality, this ‘oneness’ of the human race that inspires the Baha’i Faith, which is inspirational to us all. “Your kindness and generosity in looking out for the vulnerable, reaching out to people of all faiths, and indeed those of no faith, is both inspiring and humbling. It takes wholehearted and sustained effort and a generosity of spirit to open our hearts and homes to those who are different by virtue of language, history, religion, politics, perspective, culture, or identity,” he continued. Irish President Michael Higgins greets members of the Baha’i community at the reception for the bicentenary.At the reception, the National Assembly of the Baha’is of Ireland presented President Higgins with a hand-bound copy of a selection of the Baha’i writings translated into the Irish language, also known as Gaelic. The translation was published during the bicentenary period and happened to coincide with a nationwide effort to promote the Irish language. President Higgins thanked the Baha’i community for the gift, mentioning that it was a “practical and positive contribution” to the nation’s efforts. Member of the National Assembly Brendan McNamara also spoke at the event, sharing the aspirations and efforts of the Baha’i community to contribute its share to the betterment of society and to an increasingly unified and just world.“It is this commonality, this ‘oneness’ of the human race that inspires the Baha’i Faith, which is inspirational to us all.”—President Michael Higgins“The President’s remarks will serve both as an encouragement to the Baha’i community and also as a challenge—that we do not falter in our efforts to live by the noble principles that animate our efforts,” said Dr. McNamara. In his concluding remarks at the reception, President Higgins addressed the Baha’is of Ireland, saying: “The work you do within your faith communities, the work you do in the civic space to explain the character and needs of those communities, the work you do in contributing to the strength and diversity of the civic space—these are all vital investments in breaking down the things that get in the way of healthy, flourishing, communal relations. I know you will continue to inspire and motivate young people, and ensure the Baha’i Faith will go from strength to strength, continuing to bring people together here and around the world.”

53.3497645

-6.2602732

AGUA AZUL

Colombia

Colombia Temple rises

Colombia Temple rises AGUA AZUL, Colombia — In Norte del Cauca, the local Baha’i House of Worship is rising from the land. As each day passes, its shape becomes more distinct, signaling the near completion of this highly-anticipated development for the region. Significant progress has been made on the construction of the central edifice in recent weeks. The main structural components have been completed, work has begun on the flooring and wall finishes, and the placement of roof tiles has started. The distinctive vertical ridged dome of the House of Worship and its rich terracotta coloring is evocative of the cocoa pod, which has special significance to the people of the region as a symbol of vitality, hospitality, and their relationship with the land. Ancillary buildings at the House of Worship in Norte del Cauca are being painted in vibrant colors.The crowning piece of the Temple’s roof, symbolic of the cocoa flower, is currently under construction—when ready it will be installed and the Greatest Name symbol, a calligraphic rendering of the word ‘Baha,’ meaning glory, which is sacred to Baha’is, will be raised within it. While the central edifice forms the heart of the Temple complex, a number of ancillary buildings are also being constructed. These buildings will support the endeavors of the local population to build capacity for service to humanity. The simple but elegant structures, which are painted in the bright colors traditional to the region, reflect the vibrancy of the communities throughout Norte del Cauca. In its conception, the local House of Worship in Norte del Cauca is harmonious with the natural and social environment. For instance, solar energy will be harnessed to power all the buildings on the Temple complex, and the site incorporates a system that allows the reuse of rainwater such as for the ponds. Further, the central edifice has been designed as an open-air structure, with ornamental gates installed at the nine entrances to allow for natural cooling and ventilation. This openness further enhances the relationship between the sacred space of the interior and the beauty of the natural world beyond. Resting on a three-meter landscaped mound, the Temple will afford views onto the gardens, lakes, and native forest—regenerated by the project—all of which form the Temple complex, set against the backdrop of the Andes Mountains.

3.1866659

-76.4458778

BIC BRUSSELS

European voices join global community to condemn persecution of Yemeni Baha’is

European voices join global community to condemn persecution of Yemeni Baha’is BIC BRUSSELS — Over 100 Members of the European Parliament and national Parliaments throughout Europe have signed a statement calling for the immediate release of all Baha’i prisoners in Yemen, including Hamid bin Haydara, who was sentenced to death by public execution earlier this year. The letter is addressed to the Houthi authorities who control Sana’a, the capital city. Against the backdrop of a recent wave of persecutions directed at the Baha’i community in Sana’a, the 103 signatories of the letter—including from Austria, France, Germany, Ireland, Spain, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom—have joined numerous voices around the world in condemning the actions of the Houthi authorities. Just last month, multiple UN human rights experts issued an appeal to the Houthi authorities to quash the sentence against Mr. Haydara. The European Parliament’s Subcommittee on Human Rights also addressed this matter in its session in January 2018. Currently, seven Baha’is are in prison in Sana’a and have been denied basic human rights. Among them, Hamed bin Haydara has been held the longest. Mr. Haydara was sentenced to death by the Specialized Criminal Court in Sana’a, Yemen, on 2 January 2018. He has been in prison since December 2013, when he was arbitrarily arrested at his workplace. Mr. Haydara’s case has been notable for its complete lack of due process. At Mr. Haydara’s recent hearing, the local judge also called for the dissolution of all elected Baha’i institutions, placing the entire Baha’i community in danger.

KUALA LUMPUR

Malaysia

Celebration takes participants on journey of Baha’u’llah’s life and teachings

Celebration takes participants on journey of Baha’u’llah’s life and teachings KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — The Baha’i community of Malaysia welcomed more than 300 guests for a creative exhibition on the life and teachings of Baha’u’llah. Held on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur on 24 and 25 February 2018, the event commemorated the bicentenary of the birth of Baha’u’llah and welcomed Members of the Malaysian Parliament, the Archbishop of Kuala Lumpur, other religious leaders, and notable members of civil society organisations and governmental agencies. Guests were guided through a series of thematic zones that followed the history of the Baha’i Faith and explored its central principles. The flow of ideas in the exhibition was inspired by the October 2017 message from the Universal House of Justice written for the bicentenary. Datuk Lok Yim Pheng, a Commissioner of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia, commented on how the efforts of the Baha’i community to build communities at the grassroots were tangible expressions of the principle of the oneness of humankind. She noted that this was the first time that she had seen the concept of the oneness of humankind presented in such a profound manner. Guests at the commemoration moved through a series of “zones” in which they learned about various aspects of Baha’u’llah’s teachings and life. In zone 1, participants watched an opening video that oriented them before setting out on their journey through the exhibition.Another Commissioner of the Human Rights Commission, Jerald Joseph, shared that the Baha’i principles of consultation and independent investigation of truth were “important points that came out” from the event. “Such a brilliant philosophy in religion,” he stated. He went on to say that “the Baha’i Faith emphasizes the sense of inquiry,” in contrast to a dogmatic and doctrinaire approach to truth. “That itself was seen through the journey presented in the exhibition,” Mr. Joseph said. The arts featured prominently throughout the two days of the exhibition, especially in highlighting how spiritual principles have practical expression for social betterment. In one of the displays, two volunteers performed a short theatrical presentation explaining how, when in harmony, individuals, institutions, and communities can bring about profound constructive change. In another, a short clip from the film Light to the World was shown, followed by some remarks about the inseparable connection between individual and societal transformation. The exhibition sparked thoughtful reflections on the part of many of the guests. Executive Committee Member of the Malaysian Youth Council Thai Ming Yeow emphasized the importance of promoting common ground for the betterment of the world. Many of the over 300 visitors also expressed that they were impressed by the creative approach to the exhibition and how young people played such an important part in the event. “In Malaysia, with people of diverse backgrounds we find that the arts are an excellent medium to connect hearts and touch souls across cultures and ethnicity,” said Ho Yuet Mee, member of the Baha’i Spiritual Assembly of Malaysia, commenting on the resourcefulness and creativity of the organizers. “The exhibition was a testament to the power of unity as proclaimed by Baha’u’llah,” explained Dylane Ho, a representative of the Baha’i community of Malaysia. “For many, the conviction that the oneness of humanity is a reality rather than merely an ideal was deeply felt, not only in the presentations on the life of Baha’u’llah and the application of His Teachings, but also in the atmosphere created in the space itself. “So many hearts have been connected through the forces released in this bicentennial period,” she continued.

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101.6942371

BIC NEW YORK

Exploring an expanded conception of women’s empowerment

Exploring an expanded conception of women’s empowerment BIC NEW YORK — It is time for a more expansive conception of women’s empowerment, asserts the Baha’i International Community in a new statement. The discourse on women’s empowerment must move beyond mere concern for the participation of women in the economic life of society, as important as this is, and look at releasing the vast potentialities of women for the progress of the world. “(T)he path from doubt to self-confidence, from silence to voice, from passivity to action, cannot be understood only in terms of entering the labor market or integrating into a global production chain of one kind or another,” the statement says. “The development of capacity must concern itself with all aspects of human existence—economic as well as social, intellectual, cultural, spiritual, and moral.” Titled “Beyond Mere Economics: A Moral Inquiry into the Roots of Empowerment,” the statement was prepared for the UN’s 62nd annual Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), which begins today and comes on the heels of worldwide celebrations of International Women’s Day on 8 March. The Baha’i International Community has released a statement for the United Nation’s Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), which begins today on 12 March. This image is from last year’s CSW, which also featured several noteworthy contributions from the BIC.This year’s CSW focuses on the empowerment of rural women. Highlighting this theme, the BIC statement draws on the insights of women in different settings around the world who are engaged in social transformation in their communities and societies. Among its main recommendations, the statement proposes that educational systems need to be remodeled to release the full potential of women and assist them to develop “capabilities for service to the community and society.” Drawing on the experience of the worldwide Baha’i community, it proposes that as women become empowered and contribute to the transformation of their communities at many different levels, they become more visible, challenging pre-existing gender dichotomies and “inherited assumptions about social patterns and the roles played by women and men.” “There are many examples around the world of instances in which women and men are working shoulder to shoulder as mutually respected partners,” says the statement. Looking at the advancement of women in the broader context of the advancement of society as a whole, the statement explores a number of important questions. “One issue before the Commission on the Status of Women, then, is replication of what is working. How can a culture in which women and men jointly and joyfully contribute to the common good be built in society after society,” asks the BIC’s statement. “What is possible to achieve in local communities—not just in a few pilot programs or for the duration of a funding cycle but indefinitely into the future and all around the world?” Examining such questions and their solutions will contribute to a global process of learning which will enable humanity to advance collectively on this issue, asserts the statement. The Commission on the Status of Women runs from 12 to 23 March 2018.

BIC NEW YORK

Oldest member of Yaran completes decade-long imprisonment

Oldest member of Yaran completes decade-long imprisonment BIC NEW YORK — After a decade of unjust imprisonment and harsh treatment in Iranian prisons, Mr. Jamaloddin Khanjani, 85, completed his ten-year sentence yesterday. He is one of the seven members of the former leadership group of the Baha’is in Iran known as the Yaran, who were jailed on false and baseless charges. Mr. Khanjani, the oldest of the seven, is the fifth to be released since September 2017. The Yaran was an ad-hoc group which tended to the basic spiritual and material needs of the Iranian Baha’i community. It was formed with the full knowledge and approval of Iranian authorities after formal Baha’i institutions were declared illegal in Iran in the 1980s. “Mr. Khanjani and the other members of the Yaran should have never been put in prison to begin with,” said Bani Dugal, the principal representative of the Baha’i International Community to the United Nations. “They not only committed no crimes, but even contributed to the betterment of their communities and their country.” Jamaloddin Khanjani (center) reunited with friends and familyBorn in 1933 in the city of Sangsar, Mr. Khanjani grew up on a dairy farm and eventually started a successful charcoal production business. He eventually established the first automated brick factory in Iran, ultimately employing several hundred people. In the early 1980s after the 1979 Islamic Revolution, he was forced to shut down that factory and abandon it, putting most of his employees out of work because of the persecution he faced as a Baha’i. The factory was later confiscated by the government. In the 1990s, Mr. Khanjani was able to establish a mechanized farm on properties owned by his family. However, the authorities placed many restrictions on him, making it difficult to do business. These restrictions extended to his children and relatives and included refusing loans, closing their places of business, limiting their business dealings, and banning travel outside the country. “The treatment accorded to Mr. Khanjani and other members of the Yaran throughout their lives represents the treatment suffered by the entire Baha’i community for generations,” said Ms. Dugal. Iranian Baha’is continue to face the threat of arbitrary arrest and imprisonment, economic discrimination, and the denial of access to higher education. Economic-related persecution against them has particularly escalated in recent years resulting in what the Baha’i International Community has called, in an open letter to President Rouhani, an “economic apartheid against a segment of Iran’s population”.

BIC NEW YORK

Youngest member of Yaran completes ten year imprisonment

Youngest member of Yaran completes ten year imprisonment BIC NEW YORK — Vahid Tizfahm completed his 10-year sentence yesterday. At 44, he is the youngest of the seven former Baha’i leaders in Iran who were unjustly imprisoned for their religious beliefs in 2008. Mr. Tizfahm is the sixth member of the former group, known as the Yaran, to complete his sentence and be released. All seven members of the Yaran were arrested in March or May of 2008 and spent months in detention before receiving their charges. They were eventually sentenced to 10 years in prison through a legal procedure that lacked any semblance of due process. “We are, of course, happy that Mr. Tizfahm and other members of the Yaran are reuniting with their families,” said Diane Ala’i, Representative of the Baha’i International Community to the United Nations in Geneva. “But there can be no joy over the fact that Mr. Tizfahm has spent a decade of his life in prison for no other reason than his faith–barred from his family, friends, and community in his 30s and 40s. “It should also be absolutely clear that this step does not reflect an improvement in the situation of Iranian Baha’is as a whole,” said Ms. Ala’i, noting that they continue to face economic discrimination, are deprived of access to higher education, and remain subject to arbitrary arrest and imprisonment. Mr. Tizfahm is an optician and was the owner of an optical shop in Tabriz, where he lived until early 2008, when he moved to Tehran. He was born on 16 May 1973 in the city of Orumiyeh where he spent his childhood and youth. At the age of 23, he married Furuzandeh Nikumanesh. They have a young son, who was in the third grade when his father was arrested in 2008. As a result of his imprisonment, Mr. Tizfahm was not able to be present during some of the most important moments in his son’s life. “The members of the Yaran, and indeed the entire Baha’i community in Iran, have endured enormous human rights violations at the hands of their government, which is, in reality, meant to promote policies that will improve the economic and social well-being of its citizens,” stated Ms. Ala’i. “It’s unfortunate that, instead, it has taken every measure to deprive an entire segment of its population of the ability to live and contribute freely to the betterment of their country.” Following the recent launch of the Archives of Baha’i Persecution in Iran website, a group of prominent lawyers and judges from around the world wrote to the head of Iran’s High Council for Human Rights calling to his attention the vast collection of documentary evidence of the oppression of the Baha’i community, which he has brazenly denied. With Mr. Tizfahm’s release, only one member of the Yaran, Mr. Afif Naeimi, 55, remains in prison. His sentence is due to be completed in the coming months.

PORT MORESBY

Papua New Guinea

Design of national temple unveiled at Naw-Ruz amidst great joy

Design of national temple unveiled at Naw-Ruz amidst great joy PORT MORESBY, Papua New Guinea — In a historic event earlier today, the design for the national Baha’i House of Worship of Papua New Guinea (PNG) was unveiled. The House of Worship will be one of two national Baha’i temples to be constructed in the world in the coming years, signifying a new milestone for the Baha’i world community. Some five hundred people gathered at the temple site in the capital city, Port Moresby, to honour this unprecedented occasion, which was celebrated at Naw-Ruz, the Baha’i New Year. Traditional music and dance from representatives of various regions of the country imbued the celebration with joy and excitement. A group from Madina village, home of the first indigenous Bahá’í in PNG, performed a sacred dance to mark the occasion. The program began with the chanting of a Baha’i prayer by a small chorus of youth. “From the vantage point of this elevated position overlooking the Waigani valley and the buildings and commerce in the distance and feeling the cool breeze in the heat of the day, these words of God were poignant indeed,” described one of the participants. The national temple will be able to seat 350After an uplifting devotional program, the Secretary of the National Assembly of PNG gave a presentation on the concept of a House of Worship. “In the Baha’i writings, the House of Worship is described as a collective center of society to promote cordial affection,” said Confucius Ikoirere, the National Secretary, in his opening remarks. “It stands as a universal place of worship open to all the inhabitants of a locality, irrespective of their religion, background, ethnicity, or gender.” Mr. Ikoirere also talked about the significance of the temple to community building and how it represents the coherence between service and worship and is unique in the annals of religion. Originally from New Zealand, Rodney Hancock—one of two individuals who brought the Baha’i Faith to PNG in the 1950s—was asked to unveil the temple design before the audience. A group of women from Mount Brown sang a song in their traditional language, describing how their forefathers and mothers had accepted the Baha’i Faith and had said that they did not know all that the Faith would bring but that it would bring wondrous developments in the future. While pointing to the beautiful rendering of what the House of Worship will look like, the group said that they know now what their people had meant. The architectural team—composed of indigenous architect from PNG Henry Lape and Saeed Granfar—also addressed the audience. They explained that the “search for a universal theme” for the temple was “a profound challenge in a country with more than 700 distinct cultural groups. “One subtle image which time and again stood out to us was that of the art of weaving,” continued Mr. Lape and Mr. Granfar in their talk. “In traditional village life, which remains alive and vibrant in Papua New Guinea today, and in urban households alike, woven surfaces and objects are found in abundance. It is an image which resonates closely with ‘home’ for many of us, a functional and inherently beautiful art form which we interact with daily.” The architects’ reflections also touched on how the House of Worship will be a space where the people of PNG can unite in the worship of God and find inspiration to serve humanity together. “The craft of weaving is analogous to the process of building unity in diversity. Individual strands come together to form something infinitely stronger than the object’s constituent parts, and the whole draws on the contributions of each individual strand.” The central edifice of the House of Worship will have a seating capacity of 350. The nine gable-roofed entrances reflect a traditional structure that is associated with the sacred throughout several major regions of the country.

-9.4743301

147.1599504

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Countries around the world design commemorative Baha’i stamps

Countries around the world design commemorative Baha’i stamps BAHA’I WORLD CENTRE — Across the globe, communities have been exploring many different ways to honor the life and teachings of Baha’u’llah during the bicentenary year. In several countries, including Austria, Brazil, Cambodia, Germany, Malaysia, and the Netherlands, one tribute honoring the historic occasion has been the release of commemorative postage stamps. The designs of these stamps are inspired by Baha’i symbols and architecture. In Cambodia, for instance, the postage stamp features the newly opened local House of Worship in Battambang. Also featuring a Temple in its design is a stamp released in Germany—in this case it is the continental House of Worship for Europe in Langenhain, Germany. Other stamps drew on iconic Baha’i symbols, such as the nine-pointed star. One of the stamps issued in the Netherlands features a famous calligraphic work containing sacred words in the form of a bird of paradise—the work of prominent 19th century Persian artist Mishkin-Qalam. A commemorative stamp issued in Malaysia for the 200th anniversary of the birth of Baha’u’llahThis was not the first time commemorative stamps have been issued for historic Baha’i occasions. In 1992, the year marking the centenary of the passing of Baha’u’llah, postage stamps were released in several countries, including Brazil, Trinidad and Tobago, and Grenada. That year also included other noteworthy anniversaries for which stamps were designed. In Panama, a stamp featuring the continental House of Worship for Central America was released in 1992, which was the twentieth anniversary of the Temple’s dedication. Guyana issued a stamp that year marking the arrival of the Baha’i Faith in the country half a century prior. In 2001, Israel released a stamp in commemoration of the official opening of the Terraces. Many countries were first opened to the Baha’i Faith between 1953 and 1963 in a global ten-year plan. A number of commemorative stamps were released at the 50 year mark of the establishment of the Faith in some of these countries. Monaco and the Solomon Islands were among the countries that issued stamps for these “golden jubilee” anniversaries. Baha’i designs on postage stamps stretch back many decades. In the late 1940s, a set of stamps featuring the House of Worship in Chicago was issued in Santiago, Chile. In a remarkable turn of events several years later, Santiago was designated as the location for the future continental House of Worship for South America.

VICTORIA

Canada

Re-examining reconciliation

Re-examining reconciliation VICTORIA, Canada — Prof. Jeremy Webber, Dean of Law at the University of Victoria, looked out at a packed room. Government officials, Indigenous and religious leaders, students and academics, and members of the community had gathered for a symposium on reconciliation between the Indigenous and non-Indigenous people of the country. The event sought to promote greater understanding about a fundamental question relating to reconciliation, raised by Prof. Webber in his opening remarks: “How should we approach engagement with religion and spirituality in the process of reconciliation?” For the Baha’i community of Canada, this question is fundamental to a process of promoting justice and rebuilding relationships of trust, friendship, and cooperation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada. The audience at day 2 of the symposium, where some 120 people gathered for a series of panel discussions on the past, present, and future of reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada.A dynamic, decades-long public conversation about the relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people was energized by a report released in 2015 by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission on Indian Residential Schools (TRC), which investigated the impacts of Canada’s residential school system over many decades on indigenous children, families, and communities. This system of schooling was designed to assimilate Indigenous children into Canadian society by removing them from their families, cultures, languages, and spiritual traditions. Its effect was described by the TRC as “cultural genocide.” The Baha’i community of Canada was an active participant in the work of the TRC. There are Baha’is among the survivors of the residential schools, and some testified before the Commission. At the national gatherings of the TRC held across the country, dozens of Baha’is volunteered to be of assistance to the participants. The National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of Canada made a submission and gift to the TRC in 2015, which was accompanied by a public presentation by Deloria Bighorn, Chairperson of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of Canada. The Baha’i community also produced a short film, The Path Home, which it screened in Ottawa in association with the final national gathering. It is within this broader context that the Baha’i Community of Canada worked with the University of Victoria Faculty of Law and the Centre for Studies in Religion and Society and the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation to offer the recent symposium in March, which was titled “Rethinking the relationship between spirituality and reconciliation.”“We are here to create a world in which the suffering of people is diminished and the nobility of people is enhanced. Our work is to re-create society with principles of justice and oneness.”—Deloria BighornThe event brought together a number of leading thinkers, including many of Canada’s most prominent scholars of Indigenous law. It was held in the First Peoples House at the University of Victoria and coincided with the launch of the world’s first Indigenous law program, providing an occasion to examine how spirituality is conceptualized and applied within an evolving field of law as well as what implications this might hold for thinking more broadly about social change. Speaking at the symposium on behalf of the Baha’i community, Mrs. Bighorn expressed her hopes for the gathering: “We are here to create a world in which the suffering of people is diminished and the nobility of people is enhanced. Our work is to re-create society with principles of justice and oneness.” The symposium opened on 8 March with a public lecture in downtown Victoria, held to coincide with an annual week-long festival of research, art, and innovation. In addition to the 750 people in attendance, 5,000 people watched the opening online, as Prof. John Borrows and Prof. Val Napoleon spoke about the role of the sacred in Indigenous law. Borrows and Napoleon are leading a new initiative at the University of Victoria law school to offer a joint degree in Indigenous Law and Common Law. On 9 March, 140 people gathered for a series of panel discussions on the past, present, and future of reconciliation. Those discussions were framed by a concept note prepared for the symposium, and participants grappled with the various ways in which colonization in Canada had disrupted the connection between Indigenous peoples and their spiritual and cultural heritage. While the presentations addressed the tragic effects of colonization, occasions for hope and moments of intercultural interaction were also highlighted. One such moment was when Dr. Chelsea Horton described efforts by Indigenous and non-Indigenous Baha’is in Canada during the 1960s to stimulate a public conversation about “the right to an identity” by respecting and fostering Indigenous cultures. The theme of social change was expanded upon by Dr. Roshan Danesh, a lawyer and Baha’i, who spoke on the first panel. Dr. Danesh commented, “There is a new dynamism and opportunity, as well as tension, as we learn how to talk and reflect on reconciliation.” He challenged those gathered to “question the architecture of our society…as we struggle to take the transformative actions that are needed.” Douglas White, Director of the Centre for Pre-Confederation Treaties and Reconciliation at Vancouver Island University, touched on the kind of transformation that is needed in Canadian society. He noted that despite the importance of legal processes, they are “insufficient by themselves because of their hyper adversarial nature.” “How do we inspire Canadians to be something different?” White—who is a member of the Snuneymuxw First Nation and a Baha’i—continued, asking if aspirations can transcend mere coexistence and tolerance. “I don’t want my children to be tolerated. I want my children to be loved by you, so that their well-being will be a concern to all Canadians.” Prof. Borrows closed the proceedings by calling the participants to an active process of reflection on the day’s events, so that they could be more deeply understood. He said that this involves “engaging a greater mystery in our relationships to each other.” The symposium was the latest in a series of ongoing contributions the Baha’i community has made to a national public discourse about reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada.

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-123.3649533

AGUA AZUL

Colombia

Flower of Colombia Temple Blooms

Flower of Colombia Temple Blooms AGUA AZUL, Colombia — The crown at the top of the roof of the local Baha’i House of Worship in Colombia has been installed, marking an important milestone for this historic initiative. The yellow structure that sits atop the terracotta-tiled roof represents the blooming cocoa flower—an iconic symbol in the country—and was put into place soon after the first day of spring, which corresponds with the Baha’i New Year. It is made out of a fluorescent material that absorbs sunlight in the day and lights up naturally with the sunset. In the coming weeks, a calligraphic rendering of the word ‘Baha,’ meaning glory, will be installed within the roof’s crown. Every Baha’i House of Worship has a variation of this sacred symbol within it. Workers put the crown at the top of the roof of the local House of Worship in Norte del Cauca, Colombia.Ever since the temple was announced by the Universal House of Justice in 2012, surrounding communities have felt a sense of collective ownership for its development. “The construction of the Temple has certainly had an impact on the community,” said local youth Jean Paul Viafara Mora, age 18. “It has opened a healthy space for people to enter, and provided an alternative to the kinds of activities people undertake that may not be very good for them.” He continued: “The Faith has a spiritual potency that is affecting all of us, contributing to our spiritual development and connection with our Creator.” As the project has progressed, efforts to build a spiritually and materially vibrant community have advanced together with the construction. For the last five years, members of the community have been working on a reforestation project on the grounds of the House of Worship. The initiative has helped to reintroduce native vegetation to the area, which was decimated by the proliferation of sugarcane plantations across the land over many decades. The revival of the natural habitat in Norte del Cauca has corresponded with a spiritual awakening in the population, where gatherings for prayers in all kinds of settings bring together neighbors in a spirit of unity and love. Many from among the population have found common paths of service to the community, strengthening neighborly bonds while working shoulder to shoulder. Members of the community walk in the grounds around the Temple. The land here has already become a haven for visitors to find peace, to meditate, and to enjoy the beauty of the natural habitat.A major aspect of the reforestation project has been the spiritual connection between the people and the land. The community often holds devotional meetings on the land of the Bosque Nativo, or native forest, in the mornings before commencing work. These developments have attracted the attention of many in the region, including local Mayor Jenny Nair Gomez, who recently visited the Temple grounds. She expressed her eagerness for the Temple to open to the people soon, and it is clear that she shares the community’s enthusiasm about the impact of this major development for the area. Mayor Nair Gomez committed herself to working for positive social progress alongside the many people who have been inspired by the Temple. (Editor's note: An earlier version of this story incorrectly stated in paragraph 3 that all Baha'i Houses of Worship have the Greatest Name symbol raised at the apex of the roof. This was corrected on 8 April 2018.)

3.1866659

-76.4458778

ROSEAU

Dominica

After devastating hurricane, community unites in reconstruction

After devastating hurricane, community unites in reconstruction ROSEAU, Dominica — Hurricane Maria, a Category 5 storm, was one of the most severe Atlantic hurricanes on record. When it swept through the Caribbean some seven months ago, the destruction it left in its wake was staggering—homes destroyed, agricultural fields ruined, and communities decimated. International media coverage at the time rightly focused on the loss and tragedy that the people of the islands had suffered. But in the months since, another story has unfolded in the Caribbean—one that is hopeful, positive, and not commonly told. It is the story of communities, throughout the islands, that have discovered in tragedy the power of unity, cooperation, and collective action to rebuild the physical environment and strengthen the social and spiritual connections that bind neighbors together. It is these connections that are essential for resilience in times of trial. When natural disasters strike, communities that are united in their efforts “are more capable of taking meaningful and effective steps to respond and recover,” wrote the Baha’i International Community (BIC) in a statement published in May 2016. “(E)xperience has shown that people can exhibit remarkable resilience, selflessness, resourcefulness, and creativity in such times.” Kalinago territory, Dominica, where the community rallied together to build greenhouses in which seedlings could be sprouted to help restore the agricultural fields that were decimated by the hurricaneThe island of Dominica is one such example. Though relatively small in size, the local Baha’i communities on the island saw themselves not as helpless victims, but as protagonists in the transformation of their physical and social environments. In the Kalinago territory of Dominica, a primarily rural and indigenous region that was particularly hard hit by Hurricane Maria, aid was slow to reach the area in the storm’s aftermath, with food, water, and other supplies that were earmarked for the region never making it out of Roseau, the capital city. Recognizing the critical needs of their neighbors in the weeks following the storm, the Baha’is in the area were able to bring together community leaders, neighbors, friends, and others to consult on what they could do given the resources available to them. They decided to build several greenhouses to quickly re-establish food crops that had been decimated by the storm. Several residents offered their land to be used for the greenhouses where seeds could be planted and also plots of land where, later, the resulting seedlings could be transplanted. “Building the greenhouses brought the community together in a profound way,” explained Siila Knight, a Baha’i from Barbados who visited Dominica to provide logistical support on behalf of the BIC. “Neighbors and friends joined together and worked from early morning until evening, bringing whatever materials they could spare or salvage and sawing planks from fallen coconut palms. After finishing their work for the evening, they would gather again for collective prayers.” “It was very touching,” she continued. “Somehow everyone could feel the spiritual atmosphere while working together.” Friends and neighbors gather in front of a greenhouse they constructed together. The community in this part of the remote Kalinago territory has begun to hold classes for children and young adolescents on the site, as well as prayer gatherings open to all.Drawing on what was being learned in Kalinago, the Newtown neighborhood in Roseau also gathered to consult about how its inhabitants could take charge of the reconstruction efforts in their own community. On a Sunday in early January, dozens in the neighborhood discussed what needed to be done most urgently in the wake of the damage left by Hurricane Maria. As residents consulted, there was hope present at the meeting in Newtown. Together they made plans to remove the logs and rubbish that were clogging the harbor and blocking access to the ocean, which is vital to their fishing community. Inspired by the work in the Kalinago territory, they decided that they could use some of the lumber retrieved from the bay to build a greenhouse where seeds could be sprouted rapidly and distributed for planting at farms whose crops had been destroyed. “I’ve seen how all of these efforts have given everyone hope,” said Ms. Knight, who has been involved in the reconstruction work taking place in both communities. The community witnessed firsthand the power of consultation to solve difficult problems and foster a collective will for action. By March, the Newtown neighborhood, with some financial and logistical assistance from the BIC, had made substantial progress in addressing those aspects of the reconstruction that were possible for the local inhabitants to carry out themselves. They also arranged for therapists to come to the community and provide counselling for those who had experienced tragic loss from the devastation of the hurricane. Neighbors in the Newtown neighborhood of Roseau help clear the bay of debris following the destruction left by the hurricane.Both communities quickly found that these projects provided not just practical assistance, but also a space for neighbors and friends to gather, reflect, pray, and study. In the Kalinago territory, the greenhouses became a collective rallying point. The community began to hold moral and spiritual education classes for children and young adolescents on the site, as well as prayer gatherings open to all. They would set up an array of seats from sawn tree stumps. At first, the only seeds they could obtain for the greenhouses were for bok choy, a vegetable unfamiliar to the people of the region. But they planted it anyway, and soon developed recipes for the leafy green that families shared with each other. Later they were able to plant additional crops such as pumpkins, beans, carrots, cabbages, lettuce, watermelon, chives, tomatoes, parsley, and okra. In the months since the greenhouses were constructed, the seedlings grown there have been used to establish crops and provide food for the inhabitants of several villages in the region. The community has also worked to assist other endeavors, such as building a new roof for the community library and obtaining supplies for a few schools in the territory. Voicing an opinion held by many, an inhabitant of a village in the Kalinago territory shared: “What we have done together with the Baha’is—this is the first time that we have seen someone make a promise to help and actually fulfill it.”

15.2991923

-61.3872868

MATUNDA SOY

Kenya

Local Temple design unveiled in Kenya

Local Temple design unveiled in Kenya MATUNDA SOY, Kenya — Marking a historic moment, the design for the local Baha’i House of Worship in Matunda Soy, Kenya, was unveiled at a gathering today that brought together over 1,000 people. In a spirit of joy and excitement, the guests gathered to celebrate the occasion at the site where the future House of Worship will be built. The event included remarks offered by representatives of the Baha’i community and local officials as well as singing, drumming, and traditional dancing. Trees donated by neighbors in surrounding communities were then planted on the grounds. “This unveiling ceremony brings so much joy to our hearts,” said a representative of the Baha’i community. “This Temple will be a focal point of worship, a nerve center of community life, a place where souls will gather at daybreak for humble invocation and communion before we flow out of its doors to engage in our daily pursuits.” An illustrative rendering of the House of Worship is simple yet striking in form, inspired by the huts traditional to Matunda Soy.Senior Village Elder Violet Ombeva also addressed the audience, expressing her happiness that such a beautiful structure will be built in the area. The design of the House of Worship is simple yet elegant in form, inspired by huts that are traditional to the region. The Temple’s architect, Neda Samimi, will be the first woman whose design for a Baha’i House of Worship was selected. The concept design features a two-tiered structure that will accommodate about 250 visitors. The exposed roof beams highlight the nine sides of the edifice and are drawn together at an apex skylight beneath which will be placed the Greatest Name. The design incorporates an intricate and expressive pattern that uses the diamond shape, a familiar motif in Kenyan culture. The Temple’s construction will be undertaken with materials from the region—its roof will use local slate, and the walls will be made from stone sourced from quarries nearby. At the celebration of the unveiling of the design of the local House of Worship in Matunda SoyThe process leading to this milestone for the community began with grassroots efforts to cultivate a devotional spirit and an educational process that builds capacity for service to humanity. Along the way, the design of the House of Worship has developed in tandem with the community’s efforts in other fields and has been refined over time. “The Temple’s purpose is to serve Matunda Soy and its environs,” said Mrs. Samimi. “Its intention is to serve humanity, irrespective of race, religion, or tribe.” Kenya is one of five countries that was designated by the Universal House of Justice in 2012 to build a local Baha’i House of Worship. Baha’i Temples are open to all as a space for worship and reflection. (Editor’s note: An earlier version of this story stated that Neda Samimi was the first woman to design a Baha’i House of Worship. The text was revised on 16 April 2018 to reflect a more accurate statement, which is that she is the first female architect whose design has been selected.)

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

New section of bicentenary site widens window on celebrations

New section of bicentenary site widens window on celebrations BAHA’I WORLD CENTRE — A new section of the bicentenary website was made available moments ago. The new feature provides an expanded view—from over 150 countries and territories—of initiatives and celebrations marking the 200th anniversary of the birth of Baha’u’llah. Visitors can explore the greatly increased content, including image galleries, music, and videos, by region. The website reflects both the global scope of the celebrations and the diverse cultural settings in which Baha’u’llah’s life and teachings were honored. A banner on the homepage connects people to the new section.First launched in September 2017, the site has unfolded in stages to feature artistic endeavors, articles on the life and teachings of Baha’u’llah, public messages from national and local leaders, a letter from the Universal House of Justice, and a feature film about the life of Baha’u’llah. Over the 72-hour period in October during which the bicentenary was commemorated, as the world turned twice on its axis, the site provided a regularly updated sampling of celebrations across the globe. With the addition of the new section, the site will serve as a historical record of the worldwide outpouring of love for Baha’u’llah and dedication to His vision of a just and peaceful world.

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Leaving after many years of service in Holy Land

Leaving after many years of service in Holy Land BAHA’I WORLD CENTRE — Two members of the Universal House of Justice are leaving after many years of service at the Baha’i World Centre. Mr. Gustavo Correa, 70, and Dr. Firaydoun Javaheri, 72, who have served on the international governing body of the Baha’i Faith for 10 and 15 years respectively, requested permission to resign their office last year. The House of Justice accepted their request and in November 2017 announced that Mr. Correa and Dr. Javaheri would be leaving after the 12th International Baha’i Convention taking place later this month. The Convention will be held from 29 April to 2 May 2018 in Haifa, with an expected attendance of more than 1,300 delegates from around the world. Mr. Correa is from Colombia. He was elected to the House of Justice in 2008. Dr. Javaheri was born in Iran and spent much of his life in Africa—first in The Gambia and subsequently in Zambia. He was elected to the Universal House of Justice in 2003.

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Worldwide representatives gather for 12th International Convention

Worldwide representatives gather for 12th International Convention BAHA’I WORLD CENTRE — Some 1,300 delegates representing more than 160 countries have arrived in Haifa to participate in the 12th International Baha’i Convention. The International Convention is a unique gathering held every five years in Haifa, the administrative and spiritual center of the Baha’i world community. Delegates hail from virtually every nation. Over the course of the convention, they participate in a series of consultative sessions and elect the Faith’s international governing body, the Universal House of Justice. The consultations at International Convention are generally concerned with the development of the Baha’i Faith and the contributions of Baha’i communities to the progress of society. One of the primary areas of discussion is how Baha’u’llah’s teachings—such as the oneness of humankind, the equality of women and men, the harmony of science and religion, and the independent investigation of truth—are finding expression in a vast array of social settings, from the remotest of villages to large urban centers, and across diverse cultural realities. Delegates from around the world stand in line at the Haifa International Convention Centre.The delegates attending this year’s International Convention are members of the annually-elected governing Baha’i councils of their countries. Referred to as National Spiritual Assemblies, these institutions guide and support the activities of the Baha’i community within their respective jurisdictions. On 29 April, the delegates will gather to elect the nine members of the Universal House of Justice, a task that is undertaken as both a sacred duty and a privilege. Delegates have a period of spiritual preparation before participating in the Convention. This entails time to pray and meditate in the Sacred Shrines in Haifa and Akka as well as to visit historical Baha’i holy places.

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Publication explores advancements in development efforts worldwide

Publication explores advancements in development efforts worldwide BAHA’I WORLD CENTRE — Released online today and distributed to delegates at the 12th International Baha’i Convention, a new edition of the publication For the Betterment of the World provides an illustration of the Baha’i community’s ongoing process of learning and action in the field of social and economic development. The publication, prepared by the Office of Social and Economic Development at the Baha’i World Centre, highlights fundamental concepts that guide Baha’i efforts in social action. Among its core premises are that “(a)ll of the earth’s inhabitants should be able to enjoy the fruits of a materially and spiritually prosperous society” and that “every population has the right and responsibility to mark out the path of its own progress.” Much of the publication is dedicated to providing practical examples of projects undertaken in diverse parts of the world, irrespective of typical dichotomies—rural and urban, “North” and “South.” It describes a sampling of Baha’i development endeavors across a broad spectrum, ranging from grassroots efforts of limited duration undertaken by individuals or small groups, to sophisticated programs of social and economic development implemented by Baha’i-inspired nongovernmental organizations. The publication also explains how, most often, development endeavors emerge and advance within localities that have a pronounced sense of community and a growing collective consciousness. For the Betterment of the World describes a sampling of Baha’i development endeavors across a broad spectrum. Baha’i social and economic development initiatives address various aspects of community life, and the publication explores some of these, such as education, health, agriculture, the economic life of communities, arts and media, and the advancement of women.Baha’i social and economic development initiatives address various aspects of community life, and For the Betterment of the World explores some of these, such as education, health, agriculture, the economic life of communities, arts and media, and the advancement of women. The publication also explores how knowledge is being captured and systematized by organizations and Baha’i institutions at various levels of society, from the grassroots to the international. Regardless of the specific nature or scale of an initiative, Baha’i endeavors for social and economic development operate on the principle that populations should be the protagonists of their own material, spiritual, and intellectual advancement, not just recipients of aid or mere participants. All Baha’i-inspired initiatives are motivated by a desire to serve humanity and seek to promote the social and material well-being of all people. Taken together, Baha’i social action efforts represent a growing process of learning that is concerned with applying the teachings of Baha’u’llah, along with knowledge accumulated in different fields of human endeavor, to social reality. This edition of For the Betterment of the World is the third, following versions published in 2003 and 2008. Copies of the new publication have been made available to the more than 1,300 delegates that have arrived for the International Baha’i Convention, which begins on 29 April 2018. A copy of the new edition can also be accessed on Bahai.org.

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Delegates cast ballots to elect Universal House of Justice

Delegates cast ballots to elect Universal House of Justice BAHA’I WORLD CENTRE — In a rarefied and spiritual atmosphere, representatives of more than 160 national Baha’i communities cast their ballots for the election of the Universal House of Justice earlier today. “The attendance of delegates at the 12th International Baha’i Convention this year is unprecedented in number,” remarked Alison Milston, Counsellor Member of the International Teaching Centre, opening the proceedings. “It is a befitting symbol of how the Baha’i Faith has advanced in the two centuries since the appearance of Baha’u’llah.” Following a selection of prayers, over 1,300 representatives from around the Baha’i world, one-by-one, filed across the stage at the Haifa International Convention Centre and placed their ballots reverently into a designated wooden box. Including absentee ballots, the total number of representatives participating in the election surpassed 1,500. The casting of ballots this morning was the culmination of a global electoral process in which every adult Baha’i can participate. Baha’i elections are distinctive for their lack of nominations and campaigning. The delegates to the International Convention, made up of the membership of all national Baha’i assemblies, vote by confidential ballot for the nine individuals they believe are best suited for membership on the House of Justice.The mandate given to the Universal House of Justice by Baha’u’llah Himself includes exerting a positive influence on the welfare of humankind, promoting education, peace, and global prosperity, and safeguarding human honor, among many other responsibilities. The House of Justice is charged with applying the Baha’i teachings to the requirements of an ever-evolving society. Delegates from Ghana pray before the voting process begins.Since its formation at the First Baha’i International Convention in 1963, the House of Justice has preserved the organic unity of the worldwide Baha’i community, guiding it to develop its capacity to contribute to the emergence of a prosperous global civilization and to translate Baha’u’llah’s vision of world peace into reality.

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Delegates celebrate Ridvan festival in Bahji

Delegates celebrate Ridvan festival in Bahji BAHA’I WORLD CENTRE — More than 2,000 people representing a cross section of the human race came together today in Bahji to celebrate the festival of Ridvan, marking the anniversary of Baha’u’llah’s proclamation of His station as a Messenger of God. The attendees included delegates from more than 160 countries who are taking part in the 12th International Baha’i Convention. Many of the delegates wore the distinctive dress of their country or people, representing the remarkable diversity of the worldwide Baha’i community.The historic occasion of Baha’u’llah’s proclamation took place 155 years ago in a garden—referred to by Him as Ridvan, meaning “paradise”—on the banks of the Tigris River near Baghdad. Baha’u’llah and a group of companions stayed in the garden for 12 days, during which He also proclaimed the foundational spiritual principles that lie at the heart of His teachings—signaling the arrival of a new stage in the evolution of the life of humanity. The festival of Ridvan is regarded by Baha’is around the world as the most joyous of Baha’i holy days. More than 2,000 people came together in Bahji to celebrate the festival of Ridvan.

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Universal House of Justice elected

Universal House of Justice elected BAHA’I WORLD CENTRE — The results of the election of the nine members of the Universal House of Justice, the international governing body of the Baha’i Faith, have been announced. Yesterday, delegates to the 12th International Baha’i Convention cast ballots to elect the House of Justice. The elected members are Paul Lample, Chuungu Malitonga, Payman Mohajer, Shahriar Razavi, Stephen Hall, Ayman Rouhani, Stephen Birkland, Juan Francisco Mora, and Praveen Mallik. Members are elected for five-year terms.

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Hope and purpose shine through at International Convention

Hope and purpose shine through at International Convention BAHA’I WORLD CENTRE — Joy, focus, and a strong sense of purpose are characterizing consultations at the 12th International Baha’i Convention. In an extraordinary display of unity in diversity, delegates from around the world have been describing developments in their Baha’i communities and sharing experiences that are yielding valuable lessons about community-building and social transformation. “We are fully aware that in our work spiritual forces will assist us,” said Sophie Menard, a delegate from France. “But we will have to show a high level of devotion, sacrifice, and heroism.”“Such is the power of the teachings of Baha’u’llah that, even in territories in the middle of the ocean, their light can radiate.”—Ana Sancho, delegate from the Canary Islands“We see our world changing,” said Dorothy Whyte, a delegate from Jamaica. “We see it demonstrated here at the International Convention. We can take what we are consulting on here, go home, and spread it throughout the entire world.” “Humanity is going through two processes that are very clear—disintegration and integration,” said Plinio Lacayo, a delegate from Costa Rica. “The process of disintegration is advancing rapidly, and humanity is suffering. But because of this, we know that we have to work harder and harder. We have to be more intense, more active, and more constant.” Delegates listen intently, many receiving simultaneous translations, as a representative from France speaks.“I live on the small island of Yap,” said Sophia Laiyolap, a delegate from the Caroline Islands, addressing the Convention. “Just six years ago, the majority of the people on the island, including myself, were unaware of the person of Baha’u’llah. Today, there are more than 1,000 people who are connected and inspired by His teachings.” “Such is the power of the teachings of Baha’u’llah that, even in territories in the middle of the ocean, their light can radiate,” said Ana Sancho, a delegate from the Canary Islands. The convention will come to a close tomorrow. After further consultations, delegates will celebrate the 12th day of Ridvan, the last of the holy days commemorating a 12-day period when Baha’u’llah proclaimed, 155 years ago, His divine message to a band of companions in exile with Him in Iraq.

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

New film gives voice to communities around the world

New film gives voice to communities around the world BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — An innovative new documentary film about the community-building efforts of the Baha’i world, as seen through the eyes of local populations, was released today on Bahai.org. A Widening Embrace has been produced through a creative, grassroots process in which teams of often young people have documented the efforts of their own communities around the world to effect social change. Drawing on footage taken by those teams over the course of a year, the film tells a story of transformation unfolding in 24 communities representing different realities and contexts. It focuses on three main themes: universal participation as a path toward collective prosperity, the vital role of young people in the transformation of society, and the emergence of a range of social and economic development initiatives that spring up from the spiritual aspirations of a population. While one outcome of the film project is the documentary itself, another important dimension is the capacity that has developed in numerous local populations to document and describe what their communities are doing and learning in the context of social progress. A Widening Embrace was screened at the 12th International Baha’i Convention in Haifa, enriching the consultations of the 1,300 delegates present. Many of the themes discussed over the days of the Convention were highlighted in the practical examples presented in the documentary. The film, which was commissioned by the Universal House of Justice, is available in English, Spanish, French, Russian, Arabic, and Persian. The 77-minute film can be viewed here.

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Delegates return home energized, inspired

Delegates return home energized, inspired BAHA’I WORLD CENTRE — With the celebration of the 12th day of Ridvan on the hallowed grounds around the Shrine of Baha’u’llah in Bahji yesterday afternoon, the extraordinary period of the 12th International Baha’i Convention came to a close. Following the election of the Universal House of Justice on the first morning of the Convention, the delegates spent the next three days consulting on how the teachings of Baha’u’llah are finding concrete expression in their communities and societies. They also explored how insights from this process can be offered to those in the world who are interested in building unity and peace. “It’s so beautiful to see the world come together to consult—men and women from different backgrounds and a wide array of ages, working shoulder to shoulder to build a new world,” said Yevgeniya Poluektova, chairperson of the last session, in her closing remarks. Many delegates attributed the growing opportunities before their communities to the celebration of the bicentenary of the birth of Baha’u’llah, which was accompanied by an upwelling of support from public figures and dignitaries, as well as from countless neighbors, friends, and coworkers who attended the festivities.As members of the elected national councils that guide the affairs of the Baha’i communities in their respective countries, the delegates also reflected on how the institutions on which they serve can increasingly nurture environments in which individuals and communities are empowered and grow in capacity to take action for the betterment of the world. Delegates spent the final morning in a rich consultation about the involvement of Baha’i communities in the life of their societies. In particular, they discussed their communities’ experience with social and economic development endeavors as well as their participation in forums and settings where contemporary issues of concern to their societies are being considered by government and civil society organizations. Ouawi Tchompaare, from Chad, talked about the decade-long experience of a Baha’i-inspired development organization in the country supporting dozens of community schools in rural and urban settings. “We focus on two lines of action at this time: a health program, which focuses on prevention and hygiene, and an agriculture program about crops and fields. “Among the children in these schools, we have seen a dramatic change in hygiene and cleanliness standards, which has in turn inspired families to adopt new patterns in their homes,” Mr. Tchompaare said. Following the extraordinary Convention period, delegates are now leaving the holy land and returning home inspired and energized.“In Kazakhstan, there is a widespread concern about the disenchantment of youth with the state of the world. The Baha’i community is participating in a discourse concerned with the spiritual aspirations of youth. What we are finding is that this offers them hope and a path for constructive change,” said Lyazzat Yangaliyeva, a delegate from Kazakhstan. Describing efforts being made in Spain, delegate Sergio Garcia shared: “We understand that our work with different discourses in our country is a long term endeavor. Ultimately, we are working for peace in the world, but we also realize that the path is long and that we need to learn together what the next steps are, for example how to prevent and stop conflict between peoples and how to foster cohesion among diverse populations in our country.” The delegates’ deliberations were framed by a message from the Universal House of Justice surveying the progress of the worldwide Baha’i community and outlining the needs and questions faced by the community at this time. Many of the themes discussed over the days of the Convention were highlighted in the practical examples presented in the documentary A Widening Embrace, which is now available online.

SANTIAGO

Chile

South America Temple bridges two eras

South America Temple bridges two eras SANTIAGO, Chile — On the edge of Santiago in the foothills of the Andes, the continental Baha’i House of Worship for South America has been illuminating the mountainside for over a year and a half. In that time it has attracted hundreds of thousands of visitors to its radiant edifice, which has received multiple prestigious architecture awards. Since its dedication in October 2016, the Temple has been a recipient of an International Architecture Award as well as awards for structural artistry from the Institution of Structural Engineers, for innovation in architecture from the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada, for innovation from the American Institute of Architects, for design excellence from the Ontario Association of Architects, for “Best in Americas, Civil Buildings,” from World Architecture News, and for Architectural and Cultural design from American Architecture Prize. But the Temple’s impact has been much more than that. It has also impacted the hearts and minds of the people in Santiago and beyond. “People understand that the House of Worship is here to help with the spiritual development of our society,” explained Rocio Montoya, from the public affairs office of the Chilean Baha’i community. Marble interior surface of the nine panels of the continental Baha’i House of Worship of South America“There are many families that are coming to the Temple. Religious groups come to pray together. Many people in their advanced years also come for hours and sit at the picnic tables and enjoy fellowship. People here see the House of Worship more and more as their Temple.” The House of Worship has become a sanctuary for thousands upon thousands of visitors. They gather on its grounds each week to immerse themselves in the beauty of the natural landscape. They pray and meditate in the tranquil atmosphere of the central edifice. They participate in a range of uplifting conversations and activities oriented toward the betterment of the surrounding communities. “Young people especially are finding that programs on the Temple grounds help them to gain a deeper and nobler sense of purpose,” said Jenny Perez, a representative of the Chilean Baha’i community. “They focus not only on their personal development, which is very important, but also on the development of their communities.” Like other continental Baha’i Temples, the House of Worship for South America was an innovative architectural endeavor that had international scope. The project broke new ground in architecture and engineering, and it drew on the material support of the worldwide Baha’i community. Yet the more than decade-long project emerged at a time when Baha’i communities were also learning intensively about the spiritual and social development of neighborhoods and villages, and the construction process developed in parallel with community-building endeavors in the surrounding area. “It is in the consciousness of the people,” said Ms. Perez. “They feel its impact. People are asking, why is this beautiful structure here? How did it come about? What is its purpose? How can we learn more?”“People here see the House of Worship more and more as their Temple.”—Rocio Montoya, Chilean Baha'i public affairs officeThe award-winning House of Worship—the final continental Baha’i Temple—is a bridge between two eras. With its complex aerospace engineering technology, it embodies the architectural ingenuity and uniqueness of the Baha’i continental Temples. But like the Temples now rising for local and national communities, it has emerged in the midst of a vibrant community-building process. The Temple has become a focal point for learning about the dynamic relationship between worship of God and service to humanity. The surrounding community has contributed to a native flora project on the land. The Temple hosts programs for the moral and spiritual empowerment of youth, who become committed to the progress of their communities. And on its grounds are numerous events, some held in collaboration with the municipality and some with local and national NGOs. With the dedication of the local Baha’i House of Worship in Battambang, Cambodia, last year and several more local and national Temples planned for the coming years, Baha’i communities will be learning much more about how these structures, embedded in a locality, can be in harmony with the social and material environment and support the advancement of a population. (Editor's note: A correction was made to the last paragraph.)

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MWINILUNGA

Zambia

Lunda people draw on Baha’i teachings to transform culture, music

Lunda people draw on Baha’i teachings to transform culture, music MWINILUNGA, Zambia — A young man strums his guitar as others sway along beside him. “Enu mwakweñewa! Tabanaka yakudinuña,” he sings. The group repeats the line, and so begins this song quoting Baha’u’llah’s statement: “The tabernacle of unity hath been raised; regard ye not one another as strangers.” This is a familiar scene for the Lunda people in southern Africa. Collective singing is an essential element of Lunda communication and culture, and it not only marks the milestones of life but is also integrated into many daily activities and interactions. “Our singing is inspired by our culture and tradition,” says Gregory Kaumba, a member of the Baha’i community in Mwinilunga. “But now, much of what we sing about is influenced by the Baha’i writings.” The evolution of this aspect of the community’s culture is part of a broader transformation occurring, one that is remarkable for the extent to which Baha’i communities among the Lunda people have taken charge of their own development and are consciously deciding what kind of changes they want to see in their families and villages. This profound dialogue about the future of the Lunda people was given impetus by a conference held in 2015 that brought together hundreds of Lunda Baha’is to discuss how the teachings of Baha’u’llah are being applied to the life of their society. A special focus was given to aspects of their culture. The participants at the conference consulted about how to strengthen elements of their culture that contribute to unity and a stronger community. The unifying act of group singing, for example, has been continually nurtured. At the conference, the centrality of singing to this culture was evident. “I remember at the Lunda conference after a very touching talk from Chief Ntambu, there was just an explosion of singing,” Gregory recalls. “It’s hard to single out someone. You cannot say this person is the one singing this song. When the friends are really touched, songs will start spontaneously. One song finishes another begins. You know, you can see it, you can tell that people have been touched just from the way that they sing. It's not something you can force and say ‘friends, sing with vigor.’ But when touched they just do it naturally.”Since the conference, the Lunda Baha’is along with their friends and neighbors have continued striving to learn how to remain true to their rich cultural and spiritual heritage while strengthening the expression of Baha’i principles such as unity, justice, and the equality of women and men, in their individual and collective lives. Through these efforts, a process of social transformation has accelerated which is reflected in changes in the people’s music.“We are learning to compose songs that uplift us and speak to our nobility.”—Daniel Kaumba“The songs of the Lunda people touch on every aspect of life: love, marriage, birth, loss, and even football,” explains Daniel Kaumba, Gregory’s brother, who is also a Baha’i and has been working in the field of education and development in the area. “There are many traditional songs that people would sing all day. But some of these songs were actually quite negative—they would insult and belittle others, or broadcast another person’s mistakes to everyone. “Now people are reflecting more on how those types of songs did not help us feel united, and they are focusing on singing and composing songs with good messages. “We are learning to compose songs that uplift us and speak to our nobility,” Daniel continues. Music is an important part of life among the Lunda population.With the goal of songs that are uplifting in mind, the Lunda Baha’is have been conscious of the centrality of music to their culture. Given this centrality, they have also seen how singing can be used in a divisive way. “When we think about singing, we are thinking about which elements of our culture promote unity,” says Gregory. “It used to be that singing groups would sometimes attack people of a different religion in their songs,” says Gregory. “But we started to compose songs in which we are not attacking any population. Gradually this influenced the other groups. Now they had seen a religion which was singing songs that embrace them also. So they began to sing songs embracing other religions. That felt like a big shift in the culture—for those songs that were dividing people to be replaced by songs that unite. “At Baha’i events, space is given to both Baha’i songs and to traditional songs that have a positive message. People in the community started talking about this and expressing appreciation for this approach, because it doesn’t view traditional songs and ceremonies as sinful.” In Mwinilunga, as the choir continues its song, their voices harmonize: “Ye are the fruits of one tree.” Their singing and swaying to the melody mirrors the song’s message of unity, a message the Lunda Baha’is are trying to share in more and more songs. “Music should uplift the spirit,” Daniel says, reflecting on this positive movement. “When there is an event that has brought joy to the hearts of the people, it is expressed in music. And when there is anything that has saddened their hearts—that too is expressed through song. You can feel the soul of the people in their singing.”

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BRUSSELS

Belgium

Advancement of women and girls featured at major forum on development

Advancement of women and girls featured at major forum on development BRUSSELS, Belgium — Eight thousand people gathered earlier this week for a major forum focused on the theme: “Women and girls at the forefront of sustainable development.” The occasion was the European Commission’s annual event, European Development Days, which was held on 5 and 6 June in Brussels. Among the many participants, which included non-governmental organizations and faith-based groups, were heads of government, members of royal families, and European officials. “The advancement of women is not simply about women occupying the same positions as men in our current society or opening room for women to participate within the existing social structures,” said Baha’i International Community (BIC) representative Rachel Bayani in her remarks at a session organized by the BIC Brussels Office on the first day. Vice President of the European Parliament Heidi Hautala addresses the audience at the BIC session on 5 June 2018. Photo Credit: EDD 2018“We need new structures and relationships, conceptualized and shaped by women and men together, responding to the needs of an increasingly global and interconnected society,” she continued. The session, held on 5 June, focused on the education of the girl-child, a subject that the BIC has addressed for many decades and which is rooted in the teachings of Baha’u’llah. Vice President of the European Parliament Heidi Hautala, who addressed the BIC event, emphasized the critical importance of ensuring education for girls in social and economic development efforts. At the session, the BIC screened Mercy’s Blessing, an award-winning film about the education of girls. The conference, which closed Wednesday, covered a wide range of topics relating to women’s empowerment and the protection of women’s rights in the context of social and economic development.

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BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Cohorts of university students inspired to act

Cohorts of university students inspired to act BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — Dozens of university students in southern Florida in the United States recently spent two weeks—the beginning weeks of their summer holidays—in what might be regarded as an unusual way. They have been focused intensively on studying and consulting about social transformation. They have been thinking about their part, individually and collectively, in the emergence of a peaceful and just global civilization. In the next six months, groups like this will gather in many regions throughout the world. Thousands of university students, from North, Central, and South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australasia, will immerse themselves in similarly intensive learning environments. They will do this without the traditional incentives of grades, certificates or diplomas, or a pathway to a job. “We talk a lot about how youth have capacity and want to bring about change. But then, I think, in this space you actually get a glimpse of what they are capable of and the idealism within them to transform society. You catch a glimpse of how, if youth have an opportunity to participate in an educational program that assists them to pursue their intellectual and spiritual growth and to develop their capacity to contribute to the transformation of society, they can become such a profound source of change,” explains Arash Fazli, who has worked with this program in Asia for many years. “For me personally,” continues Dr. Fazli, “seeing the sincerity of some of these participants, the way they respond to concepts in the material, the kind of attraction that they have for these ideas, for a vision of nobility that is expressed in the materials, that helps dispel a lot of the cynicism that unfortunately young people absorb from society.” The program is offered by the Institute for Studies in Global Prosperity (ISGP). Founded in 1999, ISGP is a non-profit research and educational organization inspired by the Baha’i teachings. One of the purposes of ISGP is to explore, with others, the complementary roles that science and religion—as evolving systems of knowledge and practice—can play in the advancement of civilization. As part of its efforts to build capacity in individuals and to create spaces for learning about the betterment of society, ISGP offers a sequence of four annual seminars. Just over a decade ago, 30 participants attended the very first ISGP seminar for undergraduate students, which was held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Since then, the program has reached over 5,000 students from 103 countries. Among the aims of these seminars is to assist participants to see their university education as integral to their efforts to contribute to the transformation of society. The seminars seek to strengthen their aspirations for a more just and unified world by giving them an opportunity to reflect on the nature of profound change — on what it requires and how it might occur. A group of youth attend the seminar in Kazakhstan, where the seminars have taken place since 2010.“Many students come to the seminars understanding that youth have a very particular role to play in processes of social transformation,” explains Talia Melic, who is part of the ISGP coordinating team in France. “They want to be able to lead lives of service and to contribute to humanity in all aspects of their lives. They come in with some practical questions, which are a source of motivation for them to learn more, for example, ‘How can I put my studies and future profession to the benefit of humanity?’” “The students ask very serious and conscientious questions about their future and how to make these kinds of decisions in an integral way,” Ms. Melic says. “One thing that I’ve heard from participants that really resonates with them is the understanding that the university space has intrinsic value: it’s a space where they can serve as well as build capacity to serve. And this occurs through the knowledge they’re acquiring or through the opportunities that are open to them to converse with their peers and professors or through exploring how Baha’i principles apply in their fields.” “The seminars help them explore religion not only in terms of their personal lives but also how it relates to civilization building. They explore how spiritual principles relate to the issues that humanity is grappling with, like climate change, racism, and economic inequality,” she continues. Students are also assisted to think beyond superficial or simplistic conceptions of change. At the same time, the seminars aim to buffer participants from the cynicism that seems to set in as young people pass through tertiary education and enter the work force—a cynicism that stems from disillusionment about whether their own contributions can make a difference and more generally whether the world can really change for the better. The content studied over the four years of the seminars helps them see their education as more than merely a path to a job or a vehicle for the advancement of an individual career; it helps them to see how their fields of study can be highly valuable to their ability to contribute to society’s movement in a positive direction, toward unity, justice, and the realization of the oneness of humankind.“They explore how spiritual principles relate to the issues that humanity is grappling with, like climate change, racism, and economic inequality.”—Talia MelicOver the course of the four years, students explore a range of subjects, such as the relationship between science and religion, in which they contemplate the importance of developing scientific capabilities. They learn to analyze social forces and consider how they can channel their energies most effectively for the benefit of society. In addition, they also have the opportunity to explore how the spiritual and material dimensions of life reinforce each other, especially at that important juncture of their lives as they choose their professions and determine a path for their future. “University students have to navigate very difficult challenges during their undergraduate years. They are bombarded by so many messages about what the purpose of life is, what is success, what is happiness, what is a good life, and how important it is that you fight to achieve that life for yourself,” reflects Aaron Yates, who is part of a coordinating team for the seminars in North America. Mr. Yates discusses how contemporary education often does not provide students with an understanding of the complexity of society. “A lot of educational programs do not assist students to have a grasp of society as something more than a collection of individuals. Even the idea of institutions is not something that is often explored in depth. So attention is not given to understanding what an institution is or the ways that institutions actually give structure to our society. That limits our ability to think about what it means to contribute to the betterment of the world beyond the individual level.” “What appears to motivate many of the participants who attend the seminars is that they see in Baha’u’llah’s Revelation a vision of a better world, and the seminars represent an opportunity for them to come together with others who are like them—who are facing similar challenges, who are in a similar stage of life,” Mr. Yates explains. “This is actually a really critical moment in their lives when they're making decisions about their futures and the direction that they are going to take, and the seminars are an opportunity for them to think very carefully, very deeply about how they can translate the vision in Baha’u’llah’s Writings into practice in their lives in order to contribute to the betterment of the world that we all have to live in.” “The space that the seminars offer for young people to explore these kinds of questions is not very easy to find anywhere else,” he says. Linnet Sifuna, who coordinates the seminars in Kenya, reflects on the growth of the program there over the past several years. “In the first year of the seminars, we had a small group which we had gathered through various outreach efforts. But after that first year, the youth who participated went back to their homes and shared with the rest, so the numbers we received the next year were very high, much higher than the first year.” “At first we thought maybe it’s just the excitement of youth coming together, but later we came to understand that they’re gaining a lot from the seminars. It is helping them to think about their university education in new ways and inspiring them to learn and to be of service in their communities,” continues Ms. Sifuna. The unfoldment of the seminars over the past decade is an inspiring story. At its heart is the conviction that young people have a fundamental role to play in the transformation of society and in the progress of an ever-advancing, global civilization.

AGUA AZUL

Colombia

Colombia Temple nears completion as dome is adorned with sacred symbol

Colombia Temple nears completion as dome is adorned with sacred symbol AGUA AZUL, Colombia — The sacred Baha’i symbol known as the Greatest Name was raised to the apex of the dome inside the local Baha’i House of Worship in Agua Azul, Colombia, on Friday. A small gathering, including representatives of the Baha’i community, witnessed this significant moment, marking the near-completion of the world’s second local House of Worship. Following the recitation of prayers, the carved teak Greatest Name symbol was raised 15 meters to be placed at the inner apex of the dome. The Greatest Name is a calligraphic representation of the invocation “O Glory of the All-Glorious.” A version of the symbol is placed in every Baha’i Temple. The Temple's crowning piece, which rises 18 meters, represents the blooming cocoa flower, an iconic symbol in Colombia. Carpenters from the firm that carved the Greatest Name symbol prepare it to be raised to the apex of the dome of the local House of Worship in Agua Azul, Colombia.In the coming weeks, an ornamental silver case filled with dust from the inner sanctuary of the Shrine of the Bab will be placed within the Temple. Also, a carpet that had been placed in the Shrine will be displayed in the Temple’s reception building. These acts will represent the profound connection between this local House of Worship and the spiritual center of the Baha’i Faith. This Temple is one of the five local Baha’i Houses of Worship whose construction was announced by the Universal House of Justice in 2012. Following the inauguration ceremony next month, the Temple will open to the public.

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BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Counsellors’ conversation on spiritual transformation and social change: Part 2

Counsellors’ conversation on spiritual transformation and social change: Part 2 BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — Senior officers of the Baha’i Faith, members of the Continental Boards of Counsellors, recently met for a conference at the Baha’i World Centre following the 12th International Baha’i Convention to reflect on major developments in Baha’i communities around the world. During their recent conference, groups of Counsellors joined in conversations that were captured by the Baha’i World News Service for a series of podcasts on community building, spiritual transformation, and social change. In this episode, Alain Pierre Djoulde, Clément Thyrrell Feizouré, Maina Mkandawire, and Judicaël Mokolé – all members of the Continental Board of Counsellors in Africa – discuss selected Baha’i-inspired endeavors in the field of education. Their conversation is informed by the experience of several Baha’i-inspired organizations involved with education and highlights certain principles drawn from Baha’u’llah’s teachings that help inform their approach to development. “Fundamentally, we start from the assumption that each human being has been endowed with the potential to contribute to their own transformation and the transformation of their society,” explains Mr. Djoulde, who follows the work of Emergence Foundation in Cameroon. “And each people, each community has been endowed with all the capacities that allow it to develop. So, the role of [our educational program] is to help individuals to become more conscious of the potential that God has given them, and how they can use that potential for the well-being of their community.” Mr. Feizouré, who works with Ahdieh Foundation, a Baha’i-inspired organization that promotes community schools in the Central African Republic, adds: “Our approach to development consists above all in developing the capacity of the local population itself to take charge of the education of its children.” Clément Thyrrell Feizouré, a member of the Board of Counsellors in Africa, works with Ahdieh Foundation, a Baha’i-inspired organization that promotes community schools in the Central African Republic.“The approach that we take is completely in the field. It involves us having conversations with the local population about education – about intellectual, spiritual, and moral education. Then the community itself decides to construct its own school, and our role is mostly to help the community develop its capacity by training teachers and accompanying the process of education that is put into place,” he continues. Mrs. Mkandawire works with a similar initiative, Bambino Foundation, in Malawi. Speaking of the experience there, she says: “With community schools, the community takes responsibility of the education that their children are involved in. The teachers are from the community itself, and they are very dedicated. The community can see the transformation in the children because there is now a unified purpose for both the parents and the teachers to make sure that the children’s education goes well. So, we find that there is a lot of involvement and commitment from the parents to make sure that their children are learning. In most cases, these schools are run by the community itself. The families pay a little just to support the teacher. And the teachers don't get much, but it’s the service to their community, to their village, that motivates them to teach so that they see some change for the better.” The organizations that support community schools focus on providing teacher training and improving the quality of education as the school expands. Their experience has shown that premature introduction of funds to an endeavor can create challenges that may lead to dependency on outside support or disunity. Such educational institutions emerge where the spirit of worship and service is pronounced; in these places there is also a heightened consciousness of collective responsibility to the advancement of their community. Mr. Mokolé, who also works with Ahdieh Foundation in Central African Republic, explains that the experience of this Baha’i-inspired organization with community schools has generated insights that have been useful to the government in its work to provide education throughout the country: “It allowed the government to see a possible way to overcome the question of finances that was the limiting factor in supporting teachers at community schools – an approach focused on raising consciousness and changing the mentality of the parents so that they can themselves take charge of supporting the teachers that are educating their children.”

TUAPEIJAT

Indonesia

Education uplifts in Mentawai Islands

Education uplifts in Mentawai Islands TUAPEIJAT, Indonesia — In the 1950s, the Baha’i Faith arrived in the Mentawai Islands, a group of 70 islands off the coast of Indonesia. Many Mentawai communities embraced Baha’u’llah’s teachings, such as the fundamentally noble character of the human being, the oneness of humankind, and the importance of education in releasing the vast potentialities latent in the human mind and soul. In the following years, providing access to education became a priority. Schools, open to all children, were established in villages throughout the islands. By 1963, at the First Baha’i World Congress, held in London, a young man from Mentawai addressed the audience of more than 6,000 people from more than 40 nations. The young man, who had participated in the educational programs offered by the Baha’i community, spoke about the developments in his homeland. Subsequent decades brought challenges for the Baha’is of Indonesia until 2014, when the Faith was recognized by the Ministry of Religion as an independent faith. Yet throughout this time, the Baha’i community of Indonesia gradually contributed to education in the islands. In commemoration of the bicentenary of the birth of Baha’u’llah, the Baha’i community of Indonesia, together with a Baha’i-inspired organization in the Mentawai Islands, organized a conference on the role of spiritual education in building peaceful and prosperous communities. The event was held in Tuapeijat on 16 April. The Mentawai Islands are a group of 70 islands and islets west of the coast of the larger Indonesian island of Sumatra.The non-governmental organization, called Unity in Diversity Foundation, or Yayasan Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (YBTI) in Indonesian, promotes the establishment of locally owned and operated schools in the remote communities that make up the Mentawai Islands and provides vocational training for teachers. “If we look around us, we can see many economic, political, and social conflicts,” said Mr. Nikanor Saguruk, Deputy Head of the local parliament, in his opening remarks to the seminar. “But today we are very grateful to YBTI for the opportunity to discuss in this seminar how unity, tolerance, and oneness – the keys to a prosperous nation – can be achieved through education.” The conference was attended by a number of government officials, including Dr. Muharram Marzuki, Head of the Center of Research and Development at Indonesia’s Ministry of Religion. Teachers from five schools established by YBTI also participated and performed a traditional Mentawai dance to open the event. In her remarks to the conference, Mrs. Seminar Siritoitet, Representative of the Regent of the District of Mentawai Islands, recalled the lack of schools available for Mentawai children in the past and the efforts of the Baha’i community there over many decades to improve the educational situation in collaboration with others. Pastor Panulis Saguntung, in his keynote address, also recalled this long-standing history. He shared his childhood memories of attending a school in a remote Mentawai village in the 1960s that was run by two teachers, one a Christian and the other a Baha’i. The teachers, he explained, worked together and held classes in the village church since there was no school building.“... We are very grateful to YBTI for the opportunity to discuss in this seminar how unity, tolerance, and oneness – the keys to a prosperous nation – can be achieved through education.”—Nikanor SagurukOne of the members of the board of YBTI, Dr. Manoochehr Tahmasebian, explained in a presentation how the organization’s approach to education and building unity is inspired by principles drawn from the teachings of Baha’u’llah. Fundamental among these, he stated, was the importance of spiritual education that encourages the development of the qualities needed to build peace and social harmony. The goal of such education is not to provide religious instruction or to convert students to a particular faith. Rather, YBTI aims to assist young people from various backgrounds to learn to promote unity in diversity and to contribute to the progress of their society. YBTI’s endeavors are part of broader, but still nascent, efforts by Baha’is in the Mentawai Islands to contribute to the field of education. The Baha’is there continue to extend and strengthen an educational process that helps people to build capacity to be of service in their communities, for example through offering opportunities for the moral and spiritual education of children and youth. Meanwhile, YBTI’s schools are currently focusing on strengthening various aspects of their functioning such as the quality of academic and moral instruction, explained Dr. Tahmasebian. They are also learning about how to foster a greater sense of community ownership for the schools. This is done through regular visits by teachers to parents to converse about the progress of their children. The schools also aim to provide spaces for parents to study and discuss education-related concepts to help reinforce the work done in the classroom to develop the intellectual and spiritual capabilities of the next generation.

NEW DELHI

India

Casting a spotlight on media and religion in India

Casting a spotlight on media and religion in India NEW DELHI — How can media coverage of religion contribute to greater understanding and foster social harmony? This question, among others, animated a dynamic forum co-hosted by India’s Baha’i community on Saturday in New Delhi. The event highlighted how, in the media, faith is too often associated only with negative expressions of religious practice, such as superstition, prejudice, oppression, and exclusion. With a rising tide of religious extremism over the past decades, religious violence has also garnered an abundance of attention in the media. Yet religion is vast and multifaceted, and its many constructive contributions to communities and to civilization itself are overlooked in popular discourse and media. This reality rings especially true in Indian society, according to Saturday’s panel of speakers, which included prominent media figures, government officials, scholars, and faith representatives. Speakers at the roundtable meeting (from left) Dr. Mona Mehta, deputy editor of The Speaking Tree; Mr. N.K. Singh, a former general-secretary of the Broadcast Editors’ Association; Ms. Sandhya Jain, a political analyst and independent researcher, listen intently to the conversation.According to the Director General of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) K. G. Suresh, part of the problem is the lack of understanding about religion among media practitioners. “Journalists should understand the true nature of religion – that it contributes to love and unity, it inculcates virtues and morality,” said Mr. Suresh in his opening remarks as the chair of the forum on Saturday. “Religion should not be identified with the false godmen who exploit people and engage in criminal activities. They should focus on stories of harmony and loving co-existence between people of different religious communities and not just look for cases of conflict.” Panelists discussed some of the challenges associated with the current media model. For instance, they explored how the publication of stories is often driven by sensationalism. The pace at which news is reported often compromises the need for depth, accuracy, and nuance in a subject as complex as religion. While identifying the shortcomings of current media, the panel acknowledged the difficulty of finding a way forward. One of their main conclusions was that journalists need forums to pause and reflect on their coverage and the impact it has on perception and behavior. IIMC and the Office of Public Affairs of the Baha’is of India jointly hosted the gathering, called “Covering Religion with Sensitivity and Understanding in an Interdependent World,” held at the Institute’s campus in New Delhi. “We are trying to learn with others how the spiritual principles found in major religions can be applied to the transformation of individuals and society and for the betterment of the world. Given the great power of the media in shaping public perceptions and discourses, the Baha’i community of India and the IIMC felt there is a great need to have a conversation with media professionals about the way they cover religion,” explained Nilakshi Rajkhowa, Director of the Baha’i Office of Public Affairs in India. At the event, print and broadcast journalists spoke frankly about what they perceive as challenges in reporting on religion, including the over-coverage of conflict and under-reporting of harmony among religious groups. Several speakers argued that in India, where religion is a strong presence in people’s lives, media’s responsibility to cover religion in a thoughtful and accurate manner takes on special importance and contributes to the way groups perceive their relationships to one another and society at large. Panelist Chandan Mitra, a Member of Parliament and the editor and managing director of The Pioneer newspaper, spoke about the need to appreciate religion’s unique influence on society. “If we are aiming for a value-based society, we cannot ignore religion. Religion gives us our sense of dharma or morality.” Reflecting on the event afterward, Mrs. Rajkhowa said, “Journalists can benefit from such spaces for deep, conscious reflection on their profession.” In the coming year, IIMC and the Baha’i community of India plan to continue the discussion on media and religion in a series of roundtable events.

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77.2090057

BIC NEW YORK

Youth lead on development in UN Forum

Youth lead on development in UN Forum BIC NEW YORK — In a series of dynamic panel discussions organized by the Baha’i International Community (BIC), a delegation of young adults consulted about their generation’s responsibility in establishing peaceful and just societies and redefining the nature of leadership and power. The context was a major annual United Nations conference held from 9 to 18 July. How can the responsibility of working for the betterment of the world be not solely the occupation of a relative few experts and professionals but rather the right of all—an expression of what it means to be human? This question was on the mind of Liam Stephens, a BIC delegate and panelist from the Netherlands. “Thinking in this way allows everything we do – work, studies, family life – to move us toward a peaceful and just society. It allows us to see that everyone has a distinctive contribution to make to this work,” Mr. Stephens told his fellow panelists. BIC delegates to the UN’s 2018 High Level Political Forum joined representatives from collaborating organizations in a series of BIC panels focusing on the contributions young people can make in achieving the global Sustainable Development Goals, referred to as Agenda 2030. The Forum is an annual gathering of member states of the UN and others to review progress toward the achievement of the SDGs; alongside the Forum, non-governmental organizations such as the BIC hold related events. The three panels explored the strength inherent in diversity, the construction of peaceful and resilient societies, and capacity building for the transformation of community life. As young people participate more fully in the life of society, they begin to explore fundamental questions about how society advances and what can either foster or hinder progress. Participants in the BIC panels noted that advancing society requires building capacity for meaningful change among larger and larger numbers of people. Discussions also focused on new approaches to leadership, based on a more constructive understanding of power and authority. “As inherited concepts of dominance and control are left behind and the power of cooperation and unity of thought and action are embraced, capabilities inherent in youth surface and can be directed toward the common good,” explained Emmanuel Zapata Caldas, a BIC delegate and panelist from Colombia. Young people develop the capacity to identify the positive and negative forces at work in their communities; they rely on the power of consultation to make wise group decisions; and their deepest desires are to serve society selflessly, Mr. Zapata Caldas said. Panelist and BIC delegate from Canada Eric Farr (right) discusses the role of youth in society during a panel held this month.Speaking to young people who aspire to lead processes of social change, panelist Upasana Chauhan, UN representative for the Man Up campaign, urged them to bring others along in the work: “A leader is not one who just races ahead him or herself alone, but the one who takes the whole group along as well,” Ms. Chauhan noted. “When you are 10 steps ahead of someone else, take 15 minutes at the end of the day and take that person along to whatever situation is helping you learn and advance.” Participants also discussed the implications of the concept that humanity is like an interconnected human body, a central theme throughout the Baha’i teachings, appreciating the numerous ties of interconnection among the peoples of the world. One young panelist from Afghanistan – Bahman Shahi, a delegate from the peace-building organization Search for Common Ground – noted the importance of such bonds in contemporary society and the future, by referring to a classic poem: “It talks about how the human being is just one body and that when any one part hurts, the whole body hurts. This is what the world needs to recognize.” Another important theme participants discussed was identity, exploring how certain conceptions of the self can create a sense of unity and oneness while other conceptions can heighten a sense of otherness and promote division. All three events in the series sought to explore how to build foundations for a sense of shared identity. “In those essential aspects of life – in the capacity of every human being to dream, to think, to create; in the longing of every heart to find happiness, to grow, to connect with others – we are without distinction,” explained Saphira Rameshfar, BIC representative and one of the organizers of the series.

AGUA AZUL

Colombia

On eve of dedication, architect reflects on culture, environment, spiritual principle

On eve of dedication, architect reflects on culture, environment, spiritual principle AGUA AZUL, Colombia — When architect Julian Gutierrez Chacón was invited to participate in a design selection process for the Baha’i House of Worship in Norte del Cauca, Colombia, he was unfamiliar with the Baha’i Faith. Now, his firm’s design for the second local Baha’i Temple in the world has become a tangible reality. The edifice will be inaugurated on Sunday. Reflecting on the Temple’s design process, Mr. Gutierrez Chacón describes how the spirit of the people of Norte del Cauca and the Baha’i community there touched him deeply. “Undoubtedly, to know the Baha’is and share so much with them and especially the people of Norte del Cauca, has made us believe more in people, in their goodness and humility,” he states. “This experience has restored our hope that a better world is possible. Professionally, we have learned a lot, but most importantly, it raised us up to a state of social and environmental consciousness that transcends the technical. We feel privileged to have been a part of this historic endeavor.” Mr. Gutierrez Chacón and his team at CUNA Engineering and Sustainable Architecture focus on projects that seek harmony with the natural and social environment of the surrounding communities. They have brought their experience in these areas to bear on their approach to the House of Worship. Yet, for Mr. Gutierrez Chacón and his colleagues, this project has been unique because it has also ventured into the realm of what he describes as “spiritual architecture.” Mr. Gutierrez Chacón explains that, amid feelings of disorientation and distress that many feel about the current state of the world, “the Temple is like a North Star, a compass. It can provide orientation for our lives.” The Baha’i teachings on oneness—of God, of humanity, and of religion—are embodied in the basic shape of all Baha’i Temples. Feeling a strong connection to the principle of oneness, Mr. Gutierrez Chacón says, “To express this in a building is a very attractive and interesting challenge.” The Universal House of Justice wrote in its 1 August 2014 message to the Baha’is of the World that architects of Baha’i Houses of Worship “are presented with the singular challenge of designing Temples ‘as perfect as is possible in the world of being’” and “that harmonize naturally with the local culture and the daily lives of those who will gather to pray and meditate therein.” The House of Justice has also written that Temples wed “two essential, inseparable aspects of Bahá’í life: worship and service.” These two elements of community life have flourished in Norte del Cauca over decades of efforts to strengthen community bonds and build new patterns of relationships based on unity and justice. It was in this context that the architectural team undertook its historic project. In striving to create a structure that is coherent with the local culture, values, and aesthetic, the team familiarized itself with the life of the surrounding communities, participating in their activities. The team also came to appreciate the deep connection the people of Norte del Cauca feel for the land and the environment.Baha'i Temples wed “two essential, inseparable aspects of Bahá’í life: worship and service.”—The Universal House of JusticeConnecting the Temple to the historic landscape of the region inspired a reforestation project on the grounds surrounding the House of Worship. Referred to as the Bosque Nativo, the surrounding land is now home to a budding native forest, in contrast to neighboring sugar cane plantations that have replaced the rich diversity of the area’s indigenous flora. “The Bosque Nativo is recovering what was lost by the community,” states Mr. Gutierrez Chacón. Biologists have been helping to find the original species of plants of this area. “As we began to study more about the native plants, we realized the significance of the cocoa tree. Before the sugar cane industry came in, cocoa was a source of many things for the community – economy, hospitality in the home, a source of nutrition, and energy as a drink.” The architectural team also noted that the buildings of Norte del Cauca were traditionally made of earth, using mud-ball adobe, rammed earth, or clay bricks. Large overhanging roofs are typical and are often made of baked earth tiles. Julian Gutierrez Chacón and his team at CUNA Engineering and Sustainable Architecture designed the Baha’i House of Worship in Norte del Cauca, Colombia.“The cocoa and the earth,” he says as he shows some photographs of the cocoa plant and the local architecture that inspired the team. “These were some of the things we were researching and using as an approach to consider a concept.” The cocoa seed is fragmented into strips, but the strips are held together as one. “We used the earth in the roof and walls of the Temple to create this fragmented, familiar form for the nine sides,” Mr. Gutierrez Chacón says. He further elaborates on the cocoa plant motif: “We wanted the Temple to have a crown – where we could place the Greatest Name – and this also feels similar to the flower of the cocoa seed, from which life is propagated.” This crown, a yellow structure that sits atop the terracotta-tiled roof, is made out of a fluorescent material that absorbs sunlight in the day and lights up naturally with the sunset. The cooperation among the many people involved in the Temple project has been a highlight for Mr. Gutierrez Chacón. The professionals involved, he says, “saw this experience as more than just another job. Everyone was inspired from the beginning by the Baha’i philosophy and was conscious of what a positive impact this project will have for humanity.” The House of Worship, Mr. Gutierrez Chacón reflects, is “a beginning point from which things radiate out to the life of the people.”

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AGUA AZUL

Colombia

Norte del Cauca eagerly anticipates Temple dedication

Norte del Cauca eagerly anticipates Temple dedication AGUA AZUL, Colombia — Anticipation for Sunday morning’s opening of the Baha’i House of Worship in Norte del Cauca, Colombia, is building. More than 1,000 guests from across the country are expected for the ceremony, which begins at 9 a.m. local time, 14:00 GMT. The Temple’s inauguration ceremony marks a historic occasion for the people of Norte del Cauca, home to what is now the world’s second local Baha’i House of Worship. When attendees arrive Sunday morning, they will witness the beautiful central edifice, its surrounding buildings, and an emerging native forest. Read more here about the Temple’s design process and its architectural team. This view shows the Colombia Temple from an ancillary building.

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AGUA AZUL

Colombia

Colombia Temple dedicated in joyful ceremony

Colombia Temple dedicated in joyful ceremony AGUA AZUL, Colombia — Sunday’s daybreak saw more than 1,000 people gather to celebrate a historic moment as Colombia’s first Baha’i House of Worship opened its doors to all. Gathered in the shadow of the Temple, attendees awaited their visits to the interior of the central edifice as a spirit of joy and eager anticipation filled the air. The opening of the Temple marks a new stage in the unfoldment of the Baha’i Faith in Norte del Cauca, where the Faith has had roots for more than four decades. “We can hardly bear the great joy we feel knowing that we now have a House of Worship here,” said Carmen Rodriguez, from the nearby town of Villa Rica, reflecting on the significance of the moment. Buses arrived shortly after dawn with people filing to a large tent where the ceremony was held. Following opening presentations, the participants walked to the central edifice for prayers. “I believe that the House of Worship is a very important spot for not only Norte del Cauca but also the whole region,” says Hender Martínez, from the nearby town of Santander de Quilichao. “The atmosphere inside the Temple is something totally unique. You feel tranquility and peace.” People walk past the Temple’s ancillary buildings for their visit to the interior of the central edifice. The group was led by Carmen Elisa de Sadeghian, the representative of the Universal House of Justice to the gathering (Front row, right).Many attendees had participated in the early discussions about the design of the Temple during the months following its announcement in 2012 by the Universal House of Justice. “I was in those early community meetings about the creation of the House of Worship. Each person was able to contribute ideas and concepts for the design. Now, we can see the outcome of this process,” described Carlos Ever Mesur from the nearby village of Mingo. Sunday’s opening included remarks from the representative of the Universal House of Justice, Mrs. Carmen Elisa de Sadeghian, local dignitaries, and the Temple’s architect. Mrs. de Sadeghian read a letter of the House of Justice addressed to the attendees. “This House of Worship stands now as a symbol of the beauty inherent in the noble people of this region and its design evokes the generosity of their land,” states the letter, dated 22 July 2018. “This historical moment today is not the end of a process,” said Mr. Gustavo Correa, a former member of the Universal House of Justice who spoke at the opening. “It is a very significant step in an enterprise that aims to bring material and spiritual prosperity to a whole region.” Ms. Jenny Nair Gómez, the mayor of Villa Rica, also addressed the audience in an uplifting talk that recalled the first time that her office was approached about the idea of a House of Worship. “We are very honored to have this House of Worship in Norte del Cauca,” she exclaimed. She was one of four mayors that attended the event. In his talk about the history of the Faith in the region, former member of the Universal House of Justice Dr. Farzam Arbab said: “As we contemplate today after almost half a century of continuous progress, some words that characterize the peoples of the region and their aspirations come to mind: an enormous spiritual receptivity; a keen spiritual perception; a sincere respect for intellectual achievements; an immense capacity for joy and pain which embrace one another; an unpretentious kindness and generosity of heart; untamed determination; and a brilliance of spirit which the winds of oppression cannot extinguish.” Music and traditional dancing was featured as a central part of the opening and captured the spirit of the event. “The House of Worship: an emblem of our history, a symbol of progress for the entire region,” sang a musical group as dancers performed. The piece, titled “The Soul of Norte del Cauca,” is about the arrival of the Baha’i Faith to the region and how Baha’u’llah’s teachings are given expression in the hopes and aspirations of the people. The group also performed a song called "La Cumbia del Jardinero."Following the opening program, Mrs. de Sadeghian led the first of five groups to a devotional program inside the House of Worship. The program consisted of prayers and quotations from the Baha’i writings, some of which were sung by a choir. Each group remained afterward for a period of silent prayer before making way for the next set of inauguration participants. The event Sunday marks the opening of a month-long inauguration period. In a series of weekly visits to the Temple, 1,500 people are expected to participate in a special program called “My First Visit to the Baha’i House of Worship.” The program will include many of the features of Sunday’s dedication ceremony, allowing many more people to participate in the historic opening of the Temple. The dedication of the House of Worship in Colombia follows the opening of another local Temple in Cambodia in September and precedes the opening of five more Baha’i Houses of Worship. Temples in India, Kenya, Vanuatu, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Papua New Guinea are anticipated to open in the coming years.

3.1866659

-76.4458778

BAKU

Azerbaijan

Heroine of women’s emancipation celebrated in Azerbaijan

Heroine of women’s emancipation celebrated in Azerbaijan BAKU, Azerbaijan — The heroine, under the admiring gaze of the Persian king, listens to his proposal. Give up your faith, marry me, and enjoy a life of luxury as my favorite queen, was his bid. The audience of 450 people watches this scene with bated breath. With grace, wisdom, and courage, Tahirih declines his offer. She chooses instead to devote her life to a Cause she believes is destined to transform the world. The performance, staged on 8 July at the Azerbaijan State Academic National Drama Theatre, was the opening of Daughter of the Sun, a new play about the life of Tahirih, an influential poet, scholar, and champion of women’s emancipation. The opening night stirred performers and audience members alike. “Tahirih is a hero of not only one religion but of all of humanity,” Sayman Aruz, a poet and Head of the Department of South Azerbaijan Literature in the Azerbaijan Writers Union, told the audience after the play. “She lived and died for divine and spiritual values for the whole of humanity. She has no parallel in the history of the East. She is the voice of freedom for millions.” The play comes at a time when the life of Tahirih is gaining renewed attention and interest in Azerbaijani society. A book on Tahirih’s life and works was translated and published in 2016, catalyzing a growing interest among the people of Azerbaijan about the life of this iconic champion of women’s emancipation. After learning about Tahirih, journalist Kamale Selim Muslimgizi was so inspired that she committed herself to producing Daughter of the Sun. Ms. Muslimgizi recruited about 30 students from a dozen universities in Baku to act in the play. “Tahirih lived and died for the cause of truth,” Ms. Muslimgizi says. “This project changed my life. Before I had only ideas and dreams, but now I have spiritual power to make change. Tahirih gave me courage to act for the common good.”“Tahirih is a hero of not only one religion but of all of humanity.”—Sayman AruzTahirih was born to a prominent religious family in early 19th century Qazvin, Iran. She showed great interest in matters that, at that time, were regarded as beyond the capacity of women and inappropriate for them to pursue. Despite the obstacles before her, Tahirih became a renowned poet and scholar whose influence, which was felt profoundly in her time, has not waned with the passage a century and a half. In 1844, Tahirih became the first woman to accept the teachings of the Bab, the forerunner of Baha’u’llah, and became one of the leading figures in a movement that would spread across Persia and further afield, bringing into its ranks tens of thousands of believers in the span of a few years. The title, “Tahirih,” was given to her by Baha’u’llah, Whom she met in 1848 at the historic Conference of Badasht. The word means “the Pure.” It was at that important conference that Tahirih removed her veil. The act was considered unthinkable in 19th century Persia, a patriarchal society where women had little role in the public sphere. In that history-altering moment, she proclaimed that equality between women and men had been ushered in and that the teachings of the Bab signified a break from the traditions of the past — a “stunning trumpet-blast,” as described by Shoghi Effendi. Four years later, as the Persian government undertook its brutal persecution of the Bab’s followers, Tahirih was taken into captivity in Tihran. Refusing to recant her faith, she was executed, her dying words ringing across the century that followed: “You can kill me as soon as you like, but you cannot stop the emancipation of women.” An actor playing Tahirih’s cousin, who played an important role in connecting her to the intellectual and religious thought movements in society, speaks with two other relatives of Tahirih in a scene of the play.Daughter of the Sun highlights Tahirih’s unmatched courage, a quality that has influenced generations of people. Nigar Aliyeva, the lead actor who plays Tahirih, explains: “Tahirih said in the play, ‘I was born as Zarrin Taj but lived as Tahirih.’ While acting in the role of Tahirih I felt that I have changed. I am not a person like before. Now my life’s refrain is: ‘I was born as Nigar but will live as Tahirih.’” In the performance, dramatization of scenes from Tahirih’s life were interspersed between segments of narration and the reading of selections from her poetry. One audience member commented after the performance: “I now realize how courageous we should be and how we have to raise our voices against oppression and tyranny.” Tahirih has long attracted interest among scholars. Western Orientalists of the 19th century wrote of her influence on literature and gender equality. In recent years, there have been numerous academic articles and books about her as well as translations of three volumes of her poetry into English. Artists have also sought to depict her important influence on humanity, with playwrights, novelists, musicians, and filmmakers creating works inspired by her life and character. Tahirih wrote in Persian, Arabic, and Azeri, a widely spoken language in Qazvin and the surrounding region. Azeri is also the main language of Azerbaijan. The play will continue its run in Baku and in the coming months will go on stage in other cities across the country.

40.3754434

49.8326748

AGUA AZUL

Colombia

Following Colombia Temple opening, first visits begin

Following Colombia Temple opening, first visits begin AGUA AZUL, Colombia — Marking the local community’s response to the opening of the new Baha’i House of Worship, hundreds of residents from nearby communities joined for prayers in a joyful gathering on Sunday. More than 300 people – the majority of whom live a short walk from the Temple – participated in a special gathering to visit the Temple for the first time. Sunday’s gathering, called “My First Visit to the Baha’i House of Worship,” was held in the afterglow of 22 July’s historic dedication ceremony and included many of its elements such as the reading of a letter of the Universal House of Justice about the dedication, talks by a local mayor and the Temple’s architect, as well as musical and dance performances. “My First Visit” programs are scheduled for the following three weeks, allowing more people from local communities to participate in the Norte del Cauca Temple’s historic opening. (Update, 17 August 2018: Since this article was published on 31 July, two additional “My First Visit” programs have been held, with a total participation of about 600 people. More than 900 people have visited the Temple for the three programs held so far. This coming Sunday will be the final such program. The Temple remains open for public visits throughout the week. With the series of special gatherings and daily public opening hours of the Temple, the House of Worship is taking root in the Norte del Cauca region.) “Today, we are enjoying the fruits of the seeds we have nurtured for years,” said Alba Marina Fory Micolta from the nearby town of Primavera. “Before there were so few of us, and now there are many of us. We are now a tree with many flowers, flowers with much energy, strength, and strong values,” added Ms. Fory Micolta, who decades ago became one of the first people in Norte del Cauca to embrace the Baha’i Faith. Many people who made their first visit on Sunday described feelings of spiritual strength as a result of praying in the Temple. “When I stepped in the House of Worship, I looked at the rays of light. It was impressive, because it is something that we can feel, that gives us strength, gives us life,” Gloria Amparo of Agua Azul described. “I felt this strength embody me. The Temple is something that we really need in our region.” More than 300 people, mostly from nearby towns, visited the House of Worship in Norte del Cauca, Colombia, on Sunday.Jenny Nair Gómez, the mayor of the nearby town of Villa Rica, participated in Sunday’s visit and plans to attend the following three Sunday gatherings. She noted the importance of informing people from the neighboring towns about the Temple’s opening. “We are very honored to be the host of this House of Worship,” Ms. Gómez noted. “It is more than just a physical structure. It is a site that will allow us to keep strengthening our spirituality, regardless of our beliefs.” The House of Worship is a physical manifestation of the connection between worship and service present in the community-building activities of the Baha’is of Norte del Cauca. Its doors are open to all. “Now that the House of Worship is open, we will feel a great spiritual impact in the surrounding area, in our people, towns, and villages,” said Mariana Lopez, a youth from the nearby town of Jamundi. “Everything will change.”

3.1866659

-76.4458778

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Counsellors’ conversation on spiritual transformation and social change: Part 3

Counsellors’ conversation on spiritual transformation and social change: Part 3 BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — During a conference at the Baha’i World Centre, groups of Continental Counsellors joined in conversations that were recorded by the Baha’i World News Service for a series of podcasts on community building, spiritual transformation, and social change. The first episode looked at spiritual and moral education programs for young people. The second highlights experiences with community schools in Africa. In this podcast episode, Counsellors explore the relationship between worship and service and discuss family life, community, and race unity. Sokuntheary Reth speaks about the effect of an interwoven pattern of worship and service on the character of a community, drawing on the experience of the Baha’i community in Battambang, Cambodia, where a local Baha’i House of Worship was erected last year. “After we had the Temple,” Ms. Reth explains. “We could see that people gained more understanding of prayer, about the meaning of prayer, and the power of prayer. They feel that when they come as a whole family, it helps the family to become closer to each other and much more united.” Also, Mark Sisson from the United States and Taraz Nadarajah from Australia discuss family life, community, and race. They draw especially on experiences in Sydney, Australia, and San Diego, United States. In their conversation, they explore both how social forces are affecting society and how Baha’i communities are learning about transcending those forces to build new patterns of community life based on the oneness of humankind. Sokuntheary Reth, a member of the Board of Counsellors in Asia, discusses the effect of an interwoven pattern of worship and service on a community.

STOCKHOLM

Sweden

Imagining UN's evolution, global governance specialists collaborate

Imagining UN's evolution, global governance specialists collaborate STOCKHOLM — As the world grows more interconnected and as the imperative to unite humanity becomes ever more strongly felt, systems of global governance need to evolve. This idea is at the core of an award-winning proposal to reshape global governance, put forward by three Baha’is who specialize in aspects of governance in international affairs. “Many of the problems we face are global in nature. They cannot be solved without some kind of stronger mechanism of international cooperation,” says Augusto Lopez-Claros, an international economist and co-author of the proposal. The United Nations provides a foundation for global governance, but the proposal makes a case for a stronger international governing body. The proposal outlines a mechanism with two legislative bodies: one with national representatives and the second with delegates who represent particular global issues, such as the environment, human rights, and others. It would also include a strengthened executive branch with an international security force, as well as a well-trained international judiciary that regularly makes binding decisions. This graphic, created by the proposal's authors, gives an overview of the system of global governance that Arthur Dahl, Maja Groff, and Augusto Lopez-Claros put forth.The proposal was one of three winners of the New Shape Prize in May from the Global Challenges Foundation, a non-profit organization that aims to stimulate discussions on systems for managing global risks. Dr. Lopez-Claros, former Director of Global Indicators Group at the World Bank Group and currently a senior fellow at the School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University, collaborated with Maja Groff, an international lawyer based in The Hague, Netherlands, and Arthur Dahl, a former senior official with the U.N. Environment Programme and current President of the International Environment Forum, on the proposal to reform the U.N. and other global institutions. Titled “Global Governance and the Emergence of Global Institutions for the 21st Century,” the proposal highlights the need for a system of global governance capable of effectively addressing the major contemporary challenges facing humanity. “The principles and various aspects of our proposal draw upon the wisdom of multiple generations and thinkers from a variety of backgrounds,” says Ms. Groff, who works with the Hague Conference on Private International Law. “We hope to engage with the common aspirations of humanity.” Dr. Dahl noted that the past decades have exposed the limitations of the U.N. system to solve issues that cross national boundaries, a challenge that requires new thinking about the U.N., its further evolution, and its mandate. “A range of inherently global crises cannot be solved outside the framework of global collective action involving supranational cooperation and a fundamental rethinking of the meaning of ‘national interest,’” the paper describes. For the three authors, this means it is necessary to build upon structures that exist in the U.N. “Taken together, our proposals would ensure that the U.N. moves as soon as possible to a model of coherent governance, analogous to what we expect from effective national government systems with capacities for ongoing monitoring and rapid response to current and emerging global risks,” Ms. Groff explained.

59.3251172

18.0710935

EDINBURGH

Scotland

Musical about escaping slavery raises consciousness, inspires conversation and action

Musical about escaping slavery raises consciousness, inspires conversation and action EDINBURGH, Scotland — Determined to break free from the shackles of slavery, Henry Brown undertook a dangerous journey. The year was 1849, and he was one of the 3 million enslaved people living in the United States. He shipped himself in a wooden crate from a plantation in the southern state of Virginia to the northern city of Philadelphia. Slavery was already outlawed there, and a group of abolitionists received him, helping secure his liberation. History would remember him as Henry “Box” Brown. This month, his extraordinary story has been vividly brought to life at Edinburgh’s world-famous Fringe Festival. A new stage musical, Henry Box Brown, is thrilling and challenging audiences during a 21-day run at the city’s prestigious Assembly Rooms. The show’s creator, Mehr Mansuri, a Baha’i, wanted to take on the subject of racial inequality. In view of the cardinal Baha’i principles of the oneness of humankind and the elimination of all forms of prejudice, the subject of racial equality has been dear to Ms. Mansuri’s heart. Drawing on the arts as a powerful medium for raising consciousness, she and her colleagues have created an experience that stimulates constructive conversation and inspires action and social change. “I was searching for a story for a musical that would touch on a hero in American history from African descent,” says Ms. Mansuri — who with her family escaped persecution as a child for being a Baha’i in her native Iran. Settled in New York, she has been taking theater into public schools for two decades. Ms. Mansuri was at a book fair with her nephew when she first came across the story of Henry Brown in a children’s picture book. It immediately struck a chord with her. “The wounds are so deep, and we often feel so inadequate to open wounds we can’t close,” she says. “It’s really difficult and painful to conduct any discourse on the subject of race and not feel ill-equipped to do it.”The show’s director, Ben Harney, describes how he was attracted to the story. “The piece was very intriguing to me,” Mr. Harney, a Tony Award-winning actor, explains. “It’s an amazing story of vision, heroism, boldness, courage, and audacity. And the backdrop is a very merciless and unfriendly set of circumstances, and the cost is high.... I really was touched, moved, and inspired by the piece.” In 1848, after his children and pregnant wife were sold to new owners in North Carolina, Henry Brown resolved to escape slavery no matter the brutal punishment he might receive or the other risks of the journey. With the help of a white clergyman and a slave-owning gambler, Henry Brown was packed into a box — 3 feet long, 2 feet 8 inches deep, and 2 feet wide — and had himself shipped 300 miles to freedom by boat and train. This photo captures a scene from Henry Box Brown. The musical draws on the rich legacy of 19th-century spirituals, which arose out of the suffering and hardships endured by enslaved peoples of African descent. These pieces often convey deep spiritual values and insights.“All these songs have come from oppression, from forgiveness of the oppressors, songs that distracted you from the brutality of the life that you were in, ”explains the show’ s musical director and co - composer.“All of these songs are connected to God…”While Henry Brown is the show’s protagonist, he is not its only hero. The musical invites the audience to think about the nature of real change — how it is brought about by the courageous actions of numerous individuals, like the ones in the story. It seeks to engage audience members and encourage them to see themselves also as protagonists of meaningful change for the betterment of the world around them. After a performance, audience members are given an opportunity to discuss the themes in the musical, and each is asked to make a personal pledge of action. “Then we send their pledges back to them in four months and invite them back, so hopefully the theater becomes a kind of village that comes together again,” says Ms. Mansuri. One of the show’s cast, Najee Brown, has noticed audience members taking these conversations and pledges to heart. “I know 100 percent that people are walking away feeling like they learned something, and that’s probably the most important part,” Najee Brown says. “How do I apply what I just saw to my everyday life? How do I make a difference after watching this?” The impact of Henry Box Brown is heightened by the rich musical selections that run throughout it. Its musical score revives a number of 19th-century spirituals. “All these songs have come from oppression, from forgiveness of the oppressors, songs that distracted you from the brutality of the life that you were in,” says Jack Lenz, the show’s musical director and co-composer and a Baha’i. “All of these songs are connected to God, which is really what music is for, why we have it. It has always been connected with the worship of God and universality of sentiment and feelings, the recognition of what it is to have this sustaining power in your life, and especially if you lived through slavery.”“How do I apply what I just saw to my everyday life? How do I make a difference after watching this?”—Najee BrownThe musical brings together 16 performers — including world-class gospel and R&B singers from New York’s Christian Cultural Center, and leading Off-Broadway performers — who have become keenly aware of the resonance the show has for modern audiences. “It’s very timely, and that’s both wonderful and kind of unfortunate, in that it has elements of a story that seem to click so consistently with things that are coming out in our world today,” reflects Mr. Harney. “The story of this man who was subjugated and yet who was literate ... who ultimately got to the point where it was too much. I mean, what an amazing idea. I’ll mail myself!” Najee Brown says that “the conversations get really heavy, and sometimes I have to take a step back.” “You’re tackling a lot of heavy subjects about what they say — you know, racism, unity — and I learned a lot about the way people think. And I’ve learned patience because not everybody understands why things like this are important. But these conversations help put things in perspective.” Following its international premiere run in Edinburgh, Henry Box Brown will tour through 25 cities in the United States, starting in Flint, Michigan, in November. It is hoped that throughout the United States the show will continue to stimulate thoughtful conversations and inspire people to act in constructive ways. Good theater should do just that, explains Mr. Harney. “There’s a lot of resonance, and levels and layers of things that become subject matter for education and conversation and social activism,” he says.

55.9533456

-3.1883749

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Out of exile, a light to the world — 150th anniversary of Baha’u’llah’s arrival in Holy Land: Part 1

Out of exile, a light to the world — 150th anniversary of Baha’u’llah’s arrival in Holy Land: Part 1 The Baha’i World News Service is publishing a series of podcasts about the 150th anniversary of Baha’u’llah’s arrival in the Holy Land. This brief article is the introduction to the first of the podcast episodes. BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — This week marks the 150th anniversary of the arrival of Baha’u’llah in the Holy Land, the last banishment in a series of exiles decreed by two monarchs. The Akka/Haifa area has since become the spiritual and administrative center of the Baha’i world, home to the community’s holiest sites. “This exile was an act of oppression and injustice and persecution, but Baha’u’llah turned this act of oppression into a journey of humanity toward spirituality and freedom,” explains Nader Saiedi, Professor of Iranian Studies at University of California, Los Angeles. “This time becomes the main turning point in the mission of Baha’u’llah and, in a sense, a turning point in the cultural history of humanity.” Baha’u’llah was banished from his homeland of Persia in 1853, initiating a series of exiles. The Persian and Ottoman governments thought that by sending Baha’u’llah to a far-off prison, they would extinguish the light of His religion. On 12 August 1868, Ottoman troops surrounded Baha’u’llah’s house in Edirne, known at that time as Adrianople, and authorities told Him he was banished again. To where, they would not say. It was almost two weeks later, after Baha’u’llah and His companions had begun their journey, that they learned their destination: Akka, an ancient prison city in Ottoman Palestine, known also as Acre. This recent photo shows the House of Rida Big, one of the homes Baha’u’llah lived in during his time in Edirne, Turkey. The Ottoman Empire banished Baha’u’llah from Edirne on 12 August 1868, eventually sending him to Akka. The edifice in Edirne is now a holy place, which Baha’is can visit.“Acre became for the Ottomans a place where, first of all, they had a prison for criminals, and then, a place for exile of all kinds of people who they thought should be watched over. The Baha’is were of that category,” explains Professor David Kushner, a historian who specializes in the Ottoman Empire. Akka was a historic city that had passed through the hands of several civilizations and was once a prominent center in Ottoman Palestine. By 1868, however, the Ottomans used it as a prison colony, a desolate city where Baha’u’llah was sent to be forgotten. Now, thousands of Baha’is visit the Akka/Haifa area every year for pilgrimage, an act of devotion to the life and teachings of Baha’u’llah.

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Out of exile, a light to the world — 150th anniversary of Baha’u’llah’s arrival in Holy Land: Part 2

Out of exile, a light to the world — 150th anniversary of Baha’u’llah’s arrival in Holy Land: Part 2 *The Baha’i World News Service is publishing a series of podcasts about the 150th anniversary of Baha’u’llah’s arrival in the Holy Land. This brief article is the introduction to the second of the podcast episodes. Listen to part 1 in the series here. * BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — The sailboat drifted slowly across the bay under the brutal summer sun, delivering Baha’u’llah and His fellow prisoners to Akka. It was 31 August 1868, 150 years ago Friday. Akka did not have proper landing facilities, so the boat stopped in the shallow waters outside the city. As the prisoners waded in the water to the sea gate, they encountered a hostile and jeering crowd. Baha’u’llah was taken from the sea gate, through the city’s narrow and winding alleys, to the barracks, used at the time as a prison. “The arrival of Bahá’u’lláh in ‘Akká marks the opening of the last phase of His forty-year long ministry, the final stage, and indeed the climax, of the banishment in which the whole of that ministry was spent,” Shoghi Effendi writes in God Passes By, a history of the first century of the Baha’i Faith. “The period of His incarceration in ‘Akká brought with it the ripening of a slowly maturing process, and was a period during which the choicest fruits of that mission were ultimately garnered.” Baha’u’llah entered Akka on 31 August 1868 through the sea gate, which can be seen left of center along the sea wall. This photo, from 1920, shows what the sea gate would have looked like at the time of Baha’u’llah’s arrival, with water running directly to the wall. Today, this area along the old sea wall is a paved promenade.The horrible conditions of the city and the dreadful treatment Baha’u’llah and His companions received upon arrival were meant to signal their imminent demise and the end of Baha’u’llah’s Cause. Yet, Baha’u’llah’s description of that scene paints another picture entirely: "Upon Our arrival, We were welcomed with banners of light, whereupon the Voice of the Spirit cried out saying: ‘Soon will all that dwell on earth be enlisted under these banners.’” Akka would be the setting for some of the most extraordinary developments in Baha’i history. It would be from His prison cell in Akka that Baha’u’llah would produce some of His most weighty writings. Among these were letters addressing individually a number of the kings and rulers of His time: Pope Pius IX, Napoleon III, Czar Alexander II, Queen Victoria, and Nasiri’d-Din Shah. It was also in Akka where He later revealed His Most Holy Book, the Kitab-i-Aqdas. Baha’u’llah would live the remaining years of His life in the prison city and its surrounding area. His resting place at Bahji, just outside the old city of Akka, is the holiest place in the world for Baha’is.

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

New feature for releasing sacred Baha’i Writings launched

New feature for releasing sacred Baha’i Writings launched BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — A new feature of the Baha’i Reference Library, anticipated in the annual message of the Universal House of Justice at Ridvan this year, became available online today. The new feature will allow passages or Tablets from the Baha’i Faith’s writings, which in the course of the work at the Baha’i World Centre are translated and prepared for publication, to be released online when they become available. The 109 items made available today through the new facility include selections from the works of Baha’u’llah and ‘Abdu’l-Baha in English translations and Persian originals. This initiative complements the intensive effort underway to systematically catalog and index the content of the Baha’i sacred texts to facilitate their publication, both in their original languages and in English translation. In its message this year, the House of Justice referred to new volumes of Baha’i writings rendered into English that are set to be published in the coming years. Accompanying today’s development, the Reference Library has also been updated with substantial enhancements to the site. These include a new design for reading texts, a more powerful search tool, and a download format for electronic publication. The Baha’i Reference Library now has a simplified reading experience, with continuous scroll and navigation menus in the top corners.

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Out of exile, a light to the world — 150th anniversary of Baha’u’llah’s arrival in Holy Land: Part 3

Out of exile, a light to the world — 150th anniversary of Baha’u’llah’s arrival in Holy Land: Part 3 The Baha’i World News Service is publishing a series of podcasts about the 150th anniversary of Baha’u’llah’s arrival in the Holy Land. This article is the introduction to the third of the podcast episodes. Listen to part 1 in the series here and part 2 here. BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — A century and a half ago, Baha’u’llah arrived in the Holy Land as a prisoner in the most harrowing of conditions. Despite His great suffering, He penned a series of extraordinary writings addressing the kings and rulers of His time. Those historic works called upon humanity, through its leaders, to work for the building of a just world civilization founded on the oneness of humankind. He urged the rulers of His time to set aside their differences, establish a system of collective security and move toward disarmament, to champion the cause of justice, to show the utmost care and consideration for the well-being and rights of the poor, and to work toward a lasting peace. He praised the system of representative government and the abolishment of slavery. The third and final podcast episode on the 150th anniversary of Baha’u’llah’s arrival in the Holy Land contains interviews that explore these historic messages. The vision in these works is relevant not only to the world of the 19th century and today, but far beyond this generation, foreseeing the reorganization and transformation of the entire planet and the emergence of a global civilization that is spiritually and materially coherent. This photo from 1907 shows the barracks where Baha’u’llah and His companions were taken after arriving in Akka on 31 August 1868. It was inside this prison where Baha’u’llah penned some of His messages to the kings and rulers of the world.“It is remarkable how Baha’u’llah’s vision from 150 years ago addresses our current situation,” says Bani Dugal, Principal Representative of the Baha’i International Community, anticipating the gathering of world leaders next week in New York for the 73rd session of the United Nations General Assembly. “The issues these leaders face today are formidable: peace and security, nuclear disarmament, climate change, the widening gap between the rich and the poor, human trafficking, migration, and the list goes on,” continues Ms. Dugal. “The need for international cooperation is greater now than ever.” Baha’u’llah’s letters to the leaders of His time are translated into English and published in The Summons of the Lord of Hosts. The most momentous of these writings, according to Shoghi Effendi, is the Surih-i-Muluk, or Surih of Kings, revealed in Edirne, Turkey. In this tablet, Baha’u’llah addresses rulers of the East and West, religious leaders, philosophers, lawmakers, and more. He sets forth the character of His mission and the standards of justice that must govern the behavior of leaders. A uniquely powerful and visionary work, the Surih-i-Haykal, or Surih of the Temple, includes individual letters to five leaders: Pope Pius IX, Napoleon III of France, Russia’s Czar Alexander II, Queen Victoria, and Nasiri'd-Din Shah of Iran.

SANA’A

Yemen

Baseless charges in Yemen signal intensified persecution

Baseless charges in Yemen signal intensified persecution SANA'A, Yemen — Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi authorities have, in a court hearing Saturday, targeted some 20 Baha’is with a string of baseless charges. This action comes at a time when the leader of the Houthis has incited the population to violence against Baha’is and other religious minorities. These absurd charges—which include espionage and apostasy—have been primarily leveled against individuals who hold administrative roles in the Baha’i community, but extend to other Yemeni Baha’is including a teenage girl. Saturday's hearing began with only the judge, the prosecutor, and other court officials present; neither the Baha’is being charged nor their lawyers were informed of the announcement. The next hearing is scheduled for 29 September in Sana'a, to which the judge has summoned those absent from the first court session. “These charges are extremely alarming and mark a severe intensification of pressure at a time when the Baha’i community is already being threatened and the general humanitarian crisis in the country requires urgent attention,” said Bani Dugal, Principal Representative of the Baha'i International Community to the United Nations. “We have every reason to be concerned about the safety of the Baha’i community in Yemen. We urge the international community to call upon the authorities in Sana'a to immediately drop these absurd, false, and baseless accusations against these innocent individuals, who have been maliciously charged simply because they have been practicing their Faith.” The religiously motivated accusations by Houthi authorities in Yemen’s capital city, Sana’a, at Saturday’s court hearing come amid a systematic effort to oppress Yemeni Baha’is, including through hate speech, arrests, imprisonment, and a death sentence.“We urge the international community to call upon the authorities in Sana'a to immediately drop these absurd, false, and baseless accusations...”—Bani Dugal“The manner in which the Houthis are targeting the Baha’i community in Yemen is eerily reminiscent of the persecution of Baha’is in Iran in the 1980s, during which the leaders of the Baha’i community were rounded up and killed,” Ms. Dugal added. In a televised speech in March, Abdel-Malek al-Houthi, the leader of the Houthis, vilified and denounced the Baha’i Faith. He incited the Yemeni people to violence, urging them to defend their country from the Baha’is and members of other religious minorities. Within days of his speech, several Yemeni news sites reiterated these attacks, and a prominent Houthi writer and strategist commented on social media that “we will butcher every Baha’i”. Similar sentiments were expressed by religious authorities in Sana’a, including the Mufti of Yemen, Shams al-Din Muhammad Sharaf al-Din, who was educated in Iran and was appointed by the Houthis last year. Currently, six Baha’is are imprisoned for their beliefs. Among them, Hamed bin Haydara, detained since 2013, was sentenced in January to public execution for his faith following a protracted and unjust trial. Abdu Ismail Hassan Rajeh, the same judge who presided over Mr. Haydara's farcical case, is overseeing the trial of the recently charged Baha’is. For more information visit the website of the Baha’i International Community.

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BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

“A Widening Embrace” extra features released

“A Widening Embrace” extra features released BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — New features complementing the recently produced documentary film A Widening Embrace were made available online today. Three short films highlight aspects of the community building endeavors of Baha’is and like-minded friends around the world. Totaling about 32 minutes, the new features cover three themes: nurturing younger generations, exploring the empowerment of junior youth, and communities learning to advance together. A Widening Embrace, released in April on Bahai.org, tells the story of the transformation of communities unfolding throughout the world by featuring the process in 24 communities representing different realities and contexts. The 77-minute film and its new features were produced in an innovative way, drawing on footage recorded by local teams who documented the efforts of their own communities to effect constructive change. This scene from Panama is in one of the three additional short films added to complement A Widening Embrace, an innovative production drawing on footage recorded by local teams who documented the efforts of their own communities to effect constructive change.