The spiritual teachings of the Bahá’í Faith inspire us to form deep and diverse relationships and build communities that nurture the well-being of all. We all have a part to play in shaping a bright future.
A vibrant community is one in which the spiritual and material progress of all members is considered and everyone feels a sense of belonging and purpose. In neighbourhoods across Australia, Bahá’ís and their friends are engaged in a community building process by developing capacities for service, and fostering true friendships with all people, founded on mutual support and cooperation. Service to others enhances our intellectual and spiritual growth, and at the same time, allows us to give back to our local communities and make a difference in society. These two aspects, helping others and helping ourselves become one process.
To see how Bahá’ís are working together to contribute to building vibrant communities around the world, visit the Frontiers of Learning website: https://www.bahai.org/frontiers/
Call to action – contributing to community development
“The betterment of the world can be accomplished through pure and goodly deeds…” The Bahá’í writings
Regardless of our age or capacities, we can all contribute to the betterment of our communities. In doing so, we become active participants in a noble endeavour to build the world anew.
Across the country, Bahá’ís are engaged in this community building process by participating alongside others in grassroots efforts such as:
- Devotional gatherings that are hosted to strengthen the spiritual character of a community by providing a space for collective worship
- Children’s classes which contribute to the spiritual and moral education of children
- Youth activities that build their capacity to serve as agents of change in their communities
- Study circles to build capacity for service by exploring the application of the Bahá’í Writings to our individual and collective lives
Many individuals who have participated in this community building process have gone on to accompany others in doing the same. Some have gone further and joined the Bahá’í community, participating in its efforts to bring about individual and social transformation.
Prayer (Devotional) Gatherings
Devotional gatherings are meditative meetings, frequently held in homes or public spaces in neighborhoods to share prayers and contemplate sacred scriptures.
Fireside Conversations
Firesides are intended for individuals who are interested in getting a deeper understanding of the Bahá’í Faith and its teachings. welcome meaningful conversations with people from all backgrounds and walks of life.
Children’s Classes
Across Australia, a growing number of children from all backgrounds are developing their potential through carefully structured creative activities including storytelling and songs. Children’s classes are held in the neighbourhoods, at the community level and some state schools.
Junior Youth Spiritual Empowerment Program
This program has been specifically designed to empower adolescents aged 11-15 years and help them develop moral, intellectual and spiritual capacities. While inspired by the Bahá’í Faith, the program is not religious instruction and is open to junior youth from all backgrounds.
Study circles
Study circles are informal gatherings that bring small groups of people together to explore the Bahá’í Teachings and their application in daily life.
Social Action
Social action is rooted in the conviction that every population has the right and the capacity to shape the course of its own progress. Rather than importing solutions from outside, these efforts draw on the knowledge and aspirations already present within a community.