O Lord! Make me a brilliant lamp, a shining star and a blessed tree, adorned with fruit, its branches overshadowing all these regions.
— ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Letter from the National Spiritual Assembly:
Balloting Materials for the Election
of the Regional Bahá’í Council
News from Around the Region
“Difficult Questions” Addressed by Racial Forum
An audience of more than 50 people participated in a discussion of challenging issues faced by the Bahá’í community. The August 9 Regional Council’s Racial Justice and Unity Forum featured three presenters: Van Gilmer, Sahar Sattarzadeh, and Masud Olufani, in a panel discussion moderated by Gwen Etter-Lewis.
Each presenter selected one of five questions they received ahead of time and shared their personal reflections.
Toledo Race Amity Festival Eases Tensions
“In a time when racial tensions continue to churn across the country, members of the local Bahá’í Faith community are working to foster friendships to bridge the divides,” commented Alexandra Mester in her May 21, 2021 article in Toledo’s The Blade.
More than 30 people attended a Race Amity Festival May 14 at Wildwood Metropark in person, while more attended virtually, she reported. People of varying backgrounds and faiths, including Jewish, Christian, Muslim and Bahá’í, listened to speakers and participated in group discussions. Activities also included ice-breakers, music and dance performances.
Youth and Peace Building
On June 14, a handful of youth demonstrated the power of devotional meetings to use Bahá’u’lláh’s Words to transform lives and build community.
The gathering on Zoom, attending by more than 50 participants touched hearts, opened minds and awakened souls — through music, visual arts and the power of the Creative Word.
“That was among the more powerful and inspiring presentations I’ve seen/participated in…” wrote Dennis Stafford of Columbus, Ohio.
Local Bahá’í Communities
International and National Connections
Worldwide Bahá’í Community
The website of the International Baha’i Community. Bahá’ís believe the crucial need facing humanity is to find a unifying vision of the future of society and of the nature and purpose of life. Such a vision unfolds in the writings of Bahá’u’lláh.
Bahá’ís of the United States
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.
Bahá’í World News Service
The official news service of the worldwide Bahá’í community. Stories from communities all around the world.
US National Sites
Baha’is of the U.S.
Race Unity Action
Baha’i Resources
Louhelen Baha’i School
Baha’i Book Store
