A Faith for Today

by ed in About the Baha'i Faith
Over a century ago Bahá’u’lláh taught that religious truth is not final but progressive. Religion is renewed, He said, in every age to re-establish and apply the unchanging principles found in the scriptures of the Great Religions of the world to the needs of the present day. The entrenched powers of 19th century Persian orthodoxy vehemently opposed His message but now His Faith is spread around the world. Here in Redwood City as in Europe, [...]
  • Attend an informal presentation about the Baha’i Faith or participate in a Study Circle.
  • Attend devotional gatherings together with others who recognize our need to connect with our creator.
About the Baha'i Faith

Film: Cinemark Redwood City

You are invited to a showing of the Film “The Exemplar” …a film commissioned by the Universal House of Justice to mark the centenary commemoration of the passing of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.  The showing will be at […]

Bahá’í World News Service

The Bahá’í Chair for World Peace at the University of Maryland examines how spiritual and moral principles can help overcome barriers to creating a peaceful world. [...]

A group of youth produce a short film about fostering true friendship amidst digital interactions, screened at local cinema to inspire community reflection. [...]

U.S. Bahá’í Office of Public Affairs and Aspen Institute release collaborative essays examining inclusive American narratives through insights of religion. [...]

A new documentary examines how Bahá’í community-building initiatives in Kazakhstan are fostering social progress while drawing from the country’s rich cultural heritage. [...]

Since its dedication in 2016, the Bahá’í Temple in Santiago has welcomed over 2.5 million visitors, fostering a spirit of worship and service to society. [...]

The Universal House of Justice has called for three new Bahá’í temples to be established—two national temples in Brazil and Malawi and a local temple in Cameroon. [...]

Historian Mina Yazdani explores how Iran’s Bahá’í community, despite persecution, has contributed to social progress through education, health, and agriculture. [...]

In a joint letter of allegations, eighteen UN experts condemn Iran’s systemic persecution of the country’s Bahá’í women. [...]

National discussion explores how the principle of the harmony of science and religion can address societal challenges, offering a path to social betterment. [...]

A new essay explores how individuals, communities, and institutions can contribute to a more sustainable future amid deepening environmental crises. [...]

The central theme of the BIC’s contribution to the Summit of the Future was the need to place humanity’s interdependence at the heart of systems of global governance. [...]

Podcast episode explores the 48th ABS conference, featuring discussions on applying Bahá’í teachings to contemporary issues across diverse academic fields. [...]

New BIC short film features youth from Bahá’í communities worldwide sharing reflections on global interdependence and what the Summit of the Future can represent. [...]

BIC representatives explore the discourse on global governance, highlighting principles of oneness, consultation, and service ahead of UN Summit of the Future. [...]

BIC statement urges embracing humanity’s interdependence as foundation for global governance, challenging world leaders to rethink systems at upcoming UN summit. [...]

Construction at the Shrine of the Báb encompasses several features to enhance accessibility with significant improvements to paths and enhancements to the plaza. [...]

Remaining Bahá’í prisoners released in Sanaa, illuminating a community’s resilience amid persecution and offering hope in their ongoing pursuit of justice and peace. [...]

Over 1,900 participants gathered in Atlanta to correlate the Bahá’í teachings with the contemporary questions pertaining to the wellbeing of humanity. [...]

BIC statement emphasizes the vital role of young people in fostering peaceful societies, calling for a rethinking of how youth are perceived and engaged. [...]

Latest podcast features stories from the recent dedication of the Bahá’í House of Worship, which stands as a symbol for unity and progress. [...]

Some 4,000 people of all backgrounds from across Europe reflect on the unifying role of the temple over the past 60 years. [...]

Amid floods in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, capacities built through Bahá’í community-building efforts were vital to relief efforts and maintaining hope during the crisis. [...]

BIC highlights broad considerations, such as justice in international relations, for fostering more sustainable and equitable food systems in the EU and beyond. [...]

The Bahá’ís of Luxembourg bring together academics and civil society members to explore the role of the community in overcoming the challenges of passivity. [...]

Today marks a year since #OurStoryIsOne was launched, honoring the 10 Bahá’í women who were hanged in Iran 41 years ago, inspiring artistic works on gender equality. [...]

The first printed copy of the Kitáb-i-Aqdas—Bahá’u’lláh’s Most Holy Book—in Swahili has been published by the Bahá’ís of Tanzania. [...]

Townshend Lihanda shares stories from Kenya about individual and collective transformation inspired by Bahá’í moral education programs. [...]

BIC explores new conceptions of leadership and justice at the UN Civil Society Conference, highlighting the need for a shared identity to shape global progress. [...]

Some 4,000 people from across Papua New Guinea gathered in Port Moresby over two days to celebrate the historic opening of the country’s national Bahá’í House of Worship [...]

Over 1,000 expected for dedication of the national Bahá’í House of Worship in Port Moresby. [...]

Architects share their insights into the collaborative efforts behind Papua New Guinea’s soon to be inaugurated Bahá’í temple, which stands for the oneness of humanity. [...]

Podcast explores implications of the principle of the oneness of humanity for the relationship between the African and European continents. [...]

Youth engaged in Bahá’í community-building activities spearhead a community garden project, nurturing community ties and improving their local environment. [...]

Message of peace resounds as community celebrates opening of restored apartment where ‘Abdu’l-Bahá stayed and gave public presentations during His travels to the West. [...]

Podcast explores two fundamental aspects of a spiritual life, worship and service, bringing together guests to share experiences from a few countries. [...]

Gathering at the House of Worship marks Bahá’í National Assembly’s 100th year and explores efforts over the past century to foster social betterment. [...]

Construction work on the Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá enters a new phase focused on intricate details of building systems and exterior surfaces. [...]

BIC organizes eight events at the UN’s CSW, bringing together over 570 people to explore how institutions can remove barriers to women’s full participation in society. [...]

Human Rights Watch documents the discriminatory laws, policies, and practices used by the Iranian government to violate the human rights of Bahá’ís in the country. [...]

A new statement by the Brussels Office of the Bahá’í International Community explores avenues for nurturing young people’s potential as catalysts for social change. [...]

Podcast explores the history and evolution of the BIC and its contributions to discourses pertaining to the future and wellbeing of humanity. [...]

Radio Bahá’í in Chile launches national archive project, cataloging four decades of recordings of Mapuche cultural expression through arts, storytelling and conversations [...]

Podcast explores efforts of the Association for Bahá’í Studies to enrich the intellectual life of communities through consultative approaches to academic inquiry. [...]

BIC statement to the UN’s Commission on the Status of Women emphasizes self-transformation in institutions that aim to foster more gender-equal societies. [...]

A forum held by the Bahá’ís of Bolivia explores equality in educational opportunities for women, emphasizing the broader goal of weaving this principle throughout society [...]

In this podcast episode, we hear accounts of how prayer and efforts to apply spiritual principles to one’s daily life provide the seeds for social betterment. [...]

Roundtable discussions held by the Bahá’ís of Kazakhstan explore how a conception of human nature rooted in the nobility of human beings can strengthen family life. [...]

More than 150 Iranian human rights advocates, and social and political activists sign public statement condemning new wave of arrests against Bahá’ís. [...]

Counsellor Bhavna Anbarasan shares insights arising from Bahá’í endeavors in villages in the Indian state of Bihar where a culture of equality is taking root. [...]

Local craftsmen in PNG have hand carved 432 timber panels that now frame the nine doors of the rising House of Worship. [...]

The Polish translation of the Kitáb-i-Aqdas has been published in print for the first time, the culmination of a dedicated effort spanning almost three decades. [...]

Prayer gatherings in ‘Akká-Haifa have welcomed all people, irrespective of their cultural or religious backgrounds, in a shared spirit of kindness and fellowship. [...]

As 2023 comes to an end, the Bahá’í World News Service looks back at glimpses from efforts around the global Bahá’í community to contribute to social progress. [...]

Delegates of the Bahá’í International Community at COP28 highlight the need for a broader understanding of progress, encompassing both material and spiritual development. [...]

Westminster gathering marks UK Bahá’í Assembly’s 100th year, emphasizing harmonious and constructive relationships among individuals, the community, and institutions. [...]

UN General Assembly resolution calls for Iranian government to stop persecuting Bahá’ís. [...]

Banani International School marks 30 years of inspiring young women not only to acquire knowledge but also to develop their vision for meaningful social contribution. [...]

Technologist Matt Weinberg shares insights on the implications of the principle of the harmony of science and religion for technological progress. [...]

BIC explores the role of the elderly as protagonists of social change. [...]

The completed body of the Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá is now visible for the first time; the emerging Shrine stands as symbol of unremitting service to humanity. [...]

A solemn session in the Chamber of Deputies of Brazil explored a century of Bahá’í efforts toward social transformation in that country. [...]

A group of youth in Kenya record and distribute programs on local issues through messaging platforms, stimulating vibrant discussions about social progress. [...]

Counsellor Kessia Ruh shares stories about emerging social action initiatives in Papua New Guinea that are giving hope for a more prosperous future. [...]

The gentle call for oneness echoed in the Tanna House of Worship in a gathering of diverse faith communities marking the 2nd anniversary of the temple’s dedication. [...]

A gathering held by the BIC and the Bahá’ís of Sweden draws on insights from Bahá’í community-building efforts that foster social cohesion at the grassroots. [...]

A recent gathering held at the Bahá’í House of Worship in Santiago explores how religion can contribute to building a more cohesive society. [...]

In this podcast episode, we hear how people are learning to apply scientific knowledge together with spiritual principles to the development of their communities. [...]

The News Service has now integrated the Persian language into its website, marking a notable enhancement since the News Service was established over two decades ago. [...]

Participants at ABS conference correlate spiritual principles with diverse fields, uncovering fresh perspectives for addressing contemporary challenges facing humanity. [...]

The Bahá’í Chair for Studies in Development at Devi Ahilya University explores the principles of equality and unity in building a caring society. [...]

In this latest podcast episode, we hear reflections from young people about the role of Bahá’í Houses of Worship in strengthening community life. [...]

The trellis for the Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá has now been cast, signaling the completion of the concrete body of the Shrine. [...]

The Bahá’í World News Service introduces a new video section featuring all BWNS video productions, including short videos, documentaries, and video podcasts. [...]

A recent gathering on the grounds of the House of Worship in the Democratic Republic of the Congo explored humanity’s relationship with the natural world. [...]

Unique woven exterior of the emerging temple in Papua New Guinea has recently been completed; the pattern is symbolic of unity and coming together of diverse groups. [...]

In this latest podcast episode, we hear perspectives and insights about how Bahá’í Houses of Worship in Kenya and Uganda are enriching community life. [...]

A campaign honoring the 10 Bahá’í women executed in Iran 40 years ago draws unprecedented global support from many segments of society. [...]

The final stages of preparations are being made to cast the roof structure of the Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, a major milestone in the project. [...]

Distinguished publisher, George Ronald, marks 80 years of publishing Bahá’í literature and stimulating the intellectual life of the Bahá’í community. [...]

The latest podcast episode features two representatives of the Bahá’í International Community exploring coexistence in the Arab region. [...]

A new BIC statement offers considerations for fostering a sustainable, equitable global food system, calling for a deep examination of systemic challenges. [...]

A national conference held by Azerbaijan’s State Committee on Religious Associations explores how the principle of oneness can enrich relations among segments of society. [...]

In this podcast episode, Leslie Stewart, Executive Director of FUNDAEC, discusses insights about some of that organization’s agricultural and educational initiatives. [...]

Central Hall Westminster in London resonates with artistic performances and moving presentations honoring the 10 Bahá’í women executed in Iran 40 years ago. [...]

A public hearing held at the National Congress in Brasília, Brazil, honors the 10 Bahá’í women who were hanged in Shiraz, Iran, 40 years ago. [...]

The Bahá’í International Community announces a social media event for June 18 as part of #OurStoryIsOne honoring 10 Bahá’í women executed in Iran 40 years ago. [...]

The latest podcast episode features Counsellors exploring the impact of educational initiatives in Bahá’í communities across the world. [...]

The past weeks have seen Bahá’í communities around the globe elect their national governing councils in a spiritual atmosphere that promotes harmony. [...]

Bahá’í International Community launches new website and Instagram page for campaign honoring 10 Bahá’í women executed by Iran 40 years ago. [...]

In this episode, Counsellors discuss efforts in communities around the world to foster a culture of equality among women and men. [...]

The Bahá’ís of Italy brought together some 60 journalists to discuss the role of media in fostering social cohesion in the country. [...]

Houthi gunmen have staged a violent raid on a peaceful gathering of Bahá’ís in Sanaa, Yemen, detaining and forcibly disappearing at least 17 people. [...]

Counsellors explore the ways youth engaged in Bahá’í educational initiatives are contributing to social transformation in their communities. [...]

The Universal House of Justice has called for three new Bahá’í Houses of Worship to be established—a national temple in Canada and local temples in Nepal and Zambia. [...]

40 years ago, Iran executed 10 Bahá’í women; today, BIC launches #OurStoryIsOne, inviting artistic works to honor them and the principle of equality. [...]

A unique online collection by the Bahá’í International Community makes available more than 10,000 materials on incidents of Bahá’í persecution in Iran. [...]

The journey of the International Bahá’í Convention delegates culminates with the commemoration of the Festival of Riḍván at the Shrine of Bahá'u'llah in Bahjí. [...]

Distinctive Bahá’í electoral process explored at special reception which brought together dignitaries and Bahá’í delegates attending the International Bahá’í Convention. [...]

International Bahá’í Convention ends after election of the Universal House of Justice and days of consultations on global efforts toward spiritual and material progress. [...]

“For the Betterment of the World” casts light on Bahá’í efforts, in collaboration with social actors from all walks of life, to contribute to material and social progress [...]

Random Quote

…every one of the divine religions contains essential ordinances, which are not subject to change, and material ordinances, which are abrogated according to the exigencies of time. But the people of the world have forsaken the divine teachings and followed forms and imitations of the truth. Inasmuch as these human interpretations and superstitions differ, dissensions and bigotry have arisen, and strife and warfare have prevailed. By investigating the truth or foundation of reality underlying their own and other beliefs, all would be united and agreed, for this reality is one; it is not multiple and not divisible.

— Abdu’l-Baha

Bahá’í Community