October 2017 – Bahá’ís of Redwood City

About the Baha'i Faith

Redwood City Council Proclamation for Bicentenary

October 19, 2017

The City Council of Redwood City issued a proclamation in honor of the Bicentenary of the Birth of Bahá’u’lláh.

About the Baha'i Faith

The Life of Bahá’u’lláh and His Upcoming Bicentenary

October 15, 2017

Bahá’ís all over the world are celebrating the bicentenary of the birth of Bahá’u’lláh, the Founder of the Bahá’í Faith. Two hundred years after His birth, the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh has spread to virtually every […]

Malaysia: Village chiefs reimagine leadership as service to society

A historic conference brings together Orang Asli traditional chiefs to reimagine leadership through service, empowering communities to guide their own development. [...]

Bahá’í World News Service: Chinese-language BWNS launches

The Bahá’í World News Service is now available in the Chinese-language, marking a notable enhancement since its establishment 25 years ago. [...]

In Conversation: BIC Brussels on education and societal attitudes that empower youth

The latest podcast episode explores BIC Brussels Office’s insights on conditions that enable young people’s capacities for meaningful social contribution to flourish. [...]

Maryland Bahá’í Chair: Scholars and artists envision a future beyond racial categories

The Bahá’í Chair for World Peace at the University of Maryland examines how the notion of distinct “races” acts as a barrier to a just and peaceful society. [...]

“What the world could be like”: Century-old Haifa building serves as meeting-place for friendship

Neighbors, artists, faith leaders and officials gathered at the centennial of a historic building on Haparsim Street, creating what some called a glimpse of peace. [...]

In Conversation: BIC explores oneness and interdependence in governance

The latest podcast episode from the News Service explores the need for governance that recognizes humanity as an interdependent whole rather than competing units. [...]

“Something luminous amid the ruin”: Community-building in Spain enhances resilience to floods

Seven months after catastrophic flooding in eastern Spain, communities have discovered deeper capacities for unity, service, and resilience amid ongoing recovery. [...]

Houses of Worship: New Bahá’í temple to be established in the Philippines

The Universal House of Justice has announced plans for a new national Bahá’í temple to be established in the Philippines. [...]

United Kingdom: Youth Interfaith Summit highlights spiritual dimension of climate action

The UK Bahá’í Office of Public Affairs highlights the need to integrate moral and spiritual principles into conversations about climate action for lasting change to occur [...]

Insights from the Field: Educational initiatives in Zambia empower communities to reshape their future

Podcast explores how decades of Bahá’í educational efforts are empowering communities to apply spiritual principles to local needs and reshape their collective future. [...]

Ghana: Olinga Foundation fosters literacy with moral purpose

Olinga Foundation pairs reading lessons with moral principles, addressing literacy needs in rural communities in Ghana over the past 25 years. [...]

Insights from the Field: Canadian youth re-envision life’s purpose

New podcast explores how Bahá’í moral educational programs in Canada help youth place service at the center of their lives as they navigate contemporary life. [...]

Bahá’í World Centre: BWNS website sees major redesign on 25th year since launch

The redesigned site offers seamless access to articles, videos, and podcasts with an enhanced visual experience that vividly conveys Bahá’í efforts for social progress [...]

Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá: Marble installation begins, marking major milestone

Marble installation begins under the trellis, work on paths advances, landscaping and ‘Akká Visitors’ Centre near completion—marking major progress at the site. [...]

CSW: Principle of equality a necessary condition for peace, says the BIC

BIC delegation explores how local consultative spaces are enabling communities to foster new patterns of relationships between women and men. [...]

Brazil: National initiative harmonizes diverse perspectives on social justice

Diverse social actors in Brazil transcend institutional viewpoints, nurturing hope through dialogue and the reimagining of the foundations of justice and social progress. [...]

In Conversation: Podcast explores youth efforts in the Canary Islands to live a coherent life

In this episode, we hear how a growing number of young people in the Canary Islands are striving for coherence in many aspects of their lives, including sports. [...]

UN Commission for Social Development: BIC highlights spiritual foundations necessary for social prosperity

Spiritual foundations are essential to social cohesion, emphasized the Bahá'í International Community at the UN Commission for Social Development. [...]

United Arab Emirates: Recognizing youth as protagonists of social change

Moral and spiritual education can foster youth’s potential to contribute to social harmony, say representatives of the Bahá’í community at a conference in the UAE. [...]

BIC Brussels: Statement calls for new European approach to societal unity

A new statement of the Bahá’í International Community offers several principles that it suggests could inform EU policies for combating the roots of racism. [...]

In Conversation: Podcast explores spiritual foundations of equality of women and men

BIC representatives discuss how redefining power, fostering inclusive dialogue, and moral and spiritual educational programs are advancing equality of women and men. [...]

“Hope helps you find joy”: Gathering during intercalary days fosters unity amid societal tensions

A gathering marking Ayyám-i-Há brings together 75 guests from diverse social and religious communities in the ‘Akká area, highlighting our common humanity. [...]

BIC New York: Equality of women and men essential for creating peaceful societies

BIC statement to the 69th session of the UN’s Commission on the Status of Women emphasizes equality as essential to lasting peace. [...]

Chile: New publication explores paths to social transformation

A publication by the Bahá’ís of Chile examines how reconceptualizing human identity based on the oneness of humanity is essential for fundamental societal change. [...]

Mexico: Countering violence in neighborhoods through service

Discussions explore how recognition of the spiritual nature of human beings can help address the roots of violence and strengthen social cohesion. [...]

In Conversation: Podcast explores contributions to prevalent discourses in Kazakhstan

Members of Kazakhstan’s Bahá’í Office of Public Affairs discuss how collective exploration of spiritual principles over the years is fostering societal harmony. [...]

Bahá’í World News Service: Arabic-language BWNS launches

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

BIC Geneva: UN Member States raise concern about Bahá’ís during Iran’s Universal Periodic Review

At the recent UPR, a significant number of UN Members State raised concerns about the systematic persecution of the Bahá’ís in Iran. [...]

BIC New York: New statement explores spiritual dimension of human prosperity

Human prosperity depends as much on social, moral, and relational factors as on technological, material, and financial ones, says the BIC in a new statement. [...]

In Conversation: Podcast explores BIC’s contributions to the discourse on societal harmony

BIC representatives discuss how spiritual principles and a conception of human nature rooted in the nobility of human beings can guide efforts to foster societal harmony. [...]

India: Transforming economic structures to build a more caring society

The Bahá’í Chair for Studies in Development at Devi Ahilya University explores how spiritual principles can transform economic structures to foster a more caring society. [...]

The Bahá’í World Publication: Historic series resumes with new print volume

The 35th volume of this historic series, covering 2006-2021, explores endeavors of people worldwide working to apply spiritual principles toward social progress. [...]

2024: Year in Review

As 2024 comes to an end, the Bahá’í World News Service looks back at glimpses from efforts of the global Bahá’í community to foster a more peaceful world. [...]

Social Cohesion: National gatherings explore paths toward societal harmony

Several national Bahá’í communities mark the births of the Báb and Baháʼu’lláh, with gatherings that bring together societal leaders to explore paths toward harmony. [...]

Insights from the Field: Podcast explores the contribution of the Bahá’ís of Uzbekistan to society

Podcast explores the rich history of the Bahá’í community in Uzbekistan, highlighting its contributions to education, equality of women and men, and social harmony. [...]

BIC New York: Rising support at UN General Assembly resolution criticizing Iran for persecution of Bahá’ís

The UN General Assembly rebukes Iranian government for its human rights violations, including against the Bahá’í community. [...]

COP29: Exploring new approaches to climate action

At the UN Climate Conference, BIC delegates highlighted how the principles of humanity’s oneness and consultation are essential to addressing environmental challenges. [...]

“A haven of peace”: Native forest at Colombia temple promotes environmental action

A native forest project on the grounds of Colombia’s Bahá’í House of Worship demonstrates how spiritual principles can guide environmental conservation. [...]

Niger: Amid social challenges, youth advance culture of peace

At a conference in Maradi, over 300 young people explored how Bahá’í educational initiatives can foster patterns of community life that bring about peace. [...]

India: Exploring art as a unifying and constructive force

A symposium at the Bahá’í House of Worship in New Delhi explores how artistic expression, guided by spiritual principles, can contribute to social transformation. [...]

Bahrain: Development of families a foundation for social progress

Conferences in Bahrain highlight the pivotal role of families in fostering peaceful communities through the application of spiritual principles. [...]

Shrine of the Báb: Recent work at the Shrine completed

Recent construction work at the Shrine of the Báb concludes, enhancing accessibility through new pathways and an expansion of the plaza at this sacred site on Mt. Carmel. [...]

“Practitioners of Peace”: Ontario youth conference strengthens movement for social progress

Over 700 youth gathered to explore their part in building peaceful communities through service to their society. [...]

PODCAST: Bahá’í Chair examines conditions essential for lasting peace

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. [...]

Germany: Youth explore friendship and online interactions through film

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

United States: New volume explores spiritual insights on America’s evolving story

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

Kazakhstan: New documentary explores paths toward social progress

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. [...]

Chile: Eight years on, temple continues to uplift hearts and inspire service

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. [...]

Houses of Worship: Three new Bahá’í temples announced

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. [...]

Insights from the field: Podcast explores the contribution of the Bahá’ís of Iran to society

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

BIC Geneva: UN experts condemn Iran’s persecution of Bahá’í women

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

Azerbaijan: Reimagining path to peace through harmony of science and religion

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

Bahá’í World Publication: New essay highlights biodiversity loss, recasting relationship with nature

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

Summit of the Future: Charting a path toward peace grounded in a shared identity

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. [...]

Insights from the Field: Podcast explores annual conference of the Association for Bahá’í Studies

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

BIC New York: New video highlights youth voices on global interdependence

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. [...]

In Conversation: Podcast explores the BIC’s contributions to the discourse on global governance

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

Summit of the Future: BIC statement calls on leaders to reimagine global order

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

Shrine of the Báb: Significant construction in the grounds of the Shrine

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

Remaining prisoners released: The Yemeni Bahá’í community’s unyielding pursuit of peace

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. [...]

Bahá’í Studies: Seeking fresh perspectives to address the needs of humanity

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

BIC New York: New statement highlights transformative potential of youth

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

In Conversation: Stories from temple dedication in Papua New Guinea

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

“A refuge for all”: Bahá’í temple in Germany marks 60th anniversary

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

Brazil: Capacities built in times of calm become vital during flood crisis

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 Brussels: Oneness of humanity essential to food system reform

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

Luxembourg: Overcoming passivity through community-building

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. [...]

#OurStoryIsOne: Marking a year when the arts inspired reflection worldwide

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. [...]

Tanzania: Bahá’í Most Holy Book published in Swahili

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. [...]

Insights from the Field: Podcast explores individual and collective transformation in Kenya

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

BIC New York: Embracing humanity’s interdependence and shared identity

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. [...]

“A beacon of light and hope”: Bahá’í House of Worship inaugurated in Papua New Guinea

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 [...]

Papua New Guinea: Mounting anticipation as dedication of temple approaches

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

Papua New Guinea: Architects reflect on PNG temple project

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. [...]

In Conversation: Podcast explores implications of oneness for the African–European partnership

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

United Arab Emirates: Youth cultivate community spirit in new garden

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

United Kingdom: Restoration project honors enduring impact of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s message of peace

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. [...]

In Conversation: Podcast explores dynamic relationships between worship and service

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

“A solace to humankind”: Bahá’ís of India mark centenary at Lotus Temple

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. [...]

Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá: Work begins on building systems and exterior surfaces

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

CSW: The critical role of institutions in promoting gender equality

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. [...]

Bahá’ís of Iran: Iran’s government must end “crime against humanity of persecution,” says Human Rights Watch

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. [...]

Youth: BIC highlights essential role of youth in social transformation

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. [...]

In Conversation: Exploring contributions of the Bahá’í International Community to the betterment of the world

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

Chile Bahá’í Radio: National sound archive of Mapuche culture comes to life

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

In Conversation: Podcast explores collective inquiry through Bahá’í studies

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

BIC New York: Reimagining the role of institutions in building gender-equal societies

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. [...]

Bolivia: Women’s education a catalyst for societal progress

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 Conversation: Podcast explores power of prayer to shape communities

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. [...]

Kazakhstan: Spiritual principles basis for strengthening the family

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. [...]

BIC Geneva: Iranian thought leaders call for an end to the “historical shame” of Bahá’í persecution

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

Insights from the Field: Podcast explores advances in gender equality in India

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. [...]

Papua New Guinea: Hand carved timber panels beautify emerging temple

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

The Kitáb-i-Aqdas: Bahá’í Most Holy Book published in Polish

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. [...]

Fostering hope and fellowship: Series of gatherings in ‘Akká-Haifa promote warm interactions

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

2023: Year in Review

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. [...]

COP28: Broader conception of human progress needed, says the BIC

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

United Kingdom: Special reception at Westminster highlights principle of oneness

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

BIC New York: UN resolution renews call to end Iran’s persecution of Bahá’ís

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

Banani International School: 30 years of empowering women for social progress

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. [...]