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 […]

In conversation: Podcast explores the Preparation for Social Action program

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

Bahá’í World Centre: BWNS website now features the Persian language

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. [...]

Bahá’í Studies: Pursuing an expanded view of reality in light of spiritual principles

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

Building a More Caring World: Implications for the Family and the Community

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 conversation: Youth explore Bahá’í Houses of Worship and social progress

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

Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá: Concrete structure of the Shrine is now complete

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

Bahá’í World News Service: BWNS launches a dedicated video section

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

DRC House of Worship: Peaceful environs inspire thoughtful discussion on the environment

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. [...]

Papua New Guinea: Emerging House of Worship stands as a symbol of unity

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 conversation: Podcast explores impact of Houses of Worship on community life

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. [...]

Unprecedented Support: #OurStoryIsOne reaches hundreds of millions worldwide

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

Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá: Construction nears major milestone

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. [...]

United Kingdom: George Ronald Publisher marks 80th anniversary

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

In conversation: Podcast explores the discourse on coexistence in the Arab region

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

BIC: Fostering food systems in light of the principle of oneness

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

Azerbaijan: Envisioning a future beyond tolerance

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. [...]

Insights from the field: Podcast explores FUNDAEC’s agricultural initiatives

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

“Echoes of injustice”: Global event honors 10 Bahá’í women 40 years on

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

Brazil: National Congress honors 10 Bahá'í women at public hearing

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. [...]

#OurStoryIsOne: Campaign calls for voices of support on June 18

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. [...]

In conversation: Counsellors on educational initiatives

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

National Bahá’í Conventions: A unique electoral process

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

#OurStoryIsOne: Campaign to honor women’s sacrifice sees outpouring of support

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

In conversation: Counsellors on the advancement of women

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

Italy: Media’s role in fostering social cohesion

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

“Violent acts”: Armed Houthis attack Bahá’í gathering in Yemen, arresting at least 17, in fresh crackdown

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. [...]

In conversation: Counsellors on youth and social transformation

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

Houses of Worship: Three new Houses of Worship to be established

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. [...]

BIC Geneva: Campaign honors Bahá’í women executed in Iran 40 years ago and highlights principle of equality

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

BIC: The Archives of Bahá’í Persecution in Iran

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. [...]

13th International Convention: Homeward-bound, delegates radiate spirit of unity

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. [...]

13th International Convention: Reception with Haifa Mayor infused with unifying spirit of Convention

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

13th International Convention: Consultations inspire new hope for humanity’s future

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”: Publication sees release of new edition at International Convention

“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 [...]

Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá: Short film explores journey of construction project

A short documentary about the construction of the Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá was released today for the occasion of the 13th International Bahá’í Convention. [...]

13th International Convention: Universal House of Justice elected

The results of the election of the nine members of the Universal House of Justice, the international governing body of the Bahá’í Faith, have been announced. [...]

“An Expansive Prospect”: New film explores Bahá’í efforts toward social transformation

A film commissioned by the Universal House of Justice looks at the efforts under way in communities striving to release the society-building power of the Bahá'í teachings [...]

13th International Convention: Vote to be held to break tie for 9th place

Following yesterday’s vote to elect the Universal House of Justice, Chief Teller announces tie for 9th place; vote to break the tie will take place later this afternoon. [...]

13th International Convention: Representatives from 176 countries cast ballots to elect Universal House of Justice

Some 1,250 delegates representing 176 countries around the world assemble in a momentous gathering to elect the Universal House of Justice. [...]

13th International Convention: Delegates spiritually prepare for sacred responsibility

Delegates have been immersing themselves in the spiritual atmosphere of the Bahá’í Holy Places in the ‘Akká/Haifa area, preparing to elect the Universal House of Justice. [...]

13th International Convention: Delegates from across the Bahá’í world arrive in the Holy Land

Some 1,400 delegates representing a cross-section of humanity gather in Haifa for the 13th International Convention to elect the Universal House of Justice. [...]

Bahá’í World Centre: Leaving after many years of service in Holy Land

Two members of the Universal House of Justice, Mr. Stephen Birkland and Mr. Stephen Hall, are leaving after many years of service at the Bahá’í World Centre. [...]

United States: Mayor declares ‘World Peace Week’ in honor of Bahá’í Chair anniversary

Mayor of Athens, Georgia, declares World Peace Week in honor of the Bahá'í Chair for World Peace's 30th anniversary, highlighting unity, justice, and human solidarity. [...]

BIC New York: Exploring the future of work

The New York Office of the Bahá’í International Community recently released a statement exploring how the future of work can meet the needs of humanity. [...]

DRC: House of Worship embraces all

As the two-day dedication ceremony concludes, the Bahá’í world’s first national House of Worship opens its doors to the public. [...]

DRC: First national House of Worship opens its doors

Over 2,000 people from across the Democratic Republic of Congo gathered in Kinshasa today for the dedication of the first national Bahá’í House of Worship in the world. [...]

DRC Temple: Anticipation builds on eve of dedication

Anticipation grows as visitors arrive at DRC temple site for Saturday’s dedication of first-ever national Bahá’í House of Worship. [...]

“A collaborative artistic effort”: Architect reflects on DRC temple project

Architect Heinrich Wolff’s journey in designing the DRC temple emphasizes collaboration, unity, and inspiration from the Bahá’í principle of service to humanity. [...]

Bahai.org: New section on Bahá’í calendar added to site

New Bahai.org section offers an overview of the Bahá’í calendar, significant dates, and a downloadable calendar with Bahá’í dates mapped on Gregorian ones. [...]

Maryland Bahá’í Chair: Marking 30 years of promoting dialogue and peace

The 30th anniversary of the Bahá’í Chair at the University of Maryland provides an opportunity to reflect on long-standing efforts to foster a more harmonious world. [...]

Black History Month: House of Worship fosters oneness

Bahá’í temple in the United States hosts event during Black History Month promoting racial harmony and social cohesion. [...]

BIC New York: Women’s engagement in reimagining digital technologies

A new BIC statement explores the impact of digital technologies on women and the need for much greater inclusion of women in the processes of innovation. [...]

BIC Brussels: Policies alone not sufficient to address racial prejudice

The Bahá’í International Community’s statement calls for a shift in how institutions view human capacity, suggesting grassroots participation in policymaking processes. [...]

Türkiye: Emergency desk created to coordinate relief efforts

The Bahá’í National Spiritual Assembly’s emergency desk coordinates relief efforts through informal networks formed among participants of community-building initiatives. [...]

Kazakhstan: The arts can foster social harmony

The Bahá’ís of Kazakhstan explore how the arts can awaken noble sentiments and play an in important part in contributing to social progress. [...]

Brazil: Transcending divisions through a shared identity

A public hearing organized by the Bahá’ís of Brazil explores overcoming divisions of “us” and “them” through a recognition of humanity’s spiritual nature. [...]

BIC Addis Ababa: Video explores the pivotal role of women in promoting peace

BIC Addis Ababa Office releases a video about the role of women in peace building, part of a series exploring the Office’s contributions to the discourse on peace. [...]

Bahá’í World Publication: New articles explore reconciliation, identity, modernity

Three new articles published on the Bahá’í World website explore legacy of colonialism and pursuit of reconciliation; diversity and oneness; and modernity. [...]

Chile temple: Promoting a harmonious relationship with the natural world

The Bahá’í temple, which has been promoting environmental stewardship, was host to a gathering for both public and private sectors to reflect on a conservation project. [...]

BIC Jakarta: Can religion provide insights into technological development?

The Jakarta Office of the Bahá’í International Community explores the role of digital technology in social progress at the 2022 SEAFORB conference in Bali, Indonesia. [...]

2022 Year in Review: The start of a new journey

The News Service revisits 2022, a unique year that laid foundations for the global Bahá’í community’s efforts to contribute to social betterment in the coming decade [...]

The arts: Vancouver youth embrace power of music to awaken high aspirations

Young people participating in Bahá’í community-building activities are exploring how music can inspire high aspirations and actions for the betterment of society. [...]

Austria: ‘Language Café’ bridges divides

An initiative of the Bahá’ís of Vienna that offers German language classes for newly arrived families has also enabled diverse people to overcome prejudices. [...]

Bahrain: National forums highlight religion’s pivotal role in social progress

The Bahá’ís of Bahrain explore how spiritual principles such as unity in diversity and the relationship between prayer and service are essential to social progress. [...]

Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá: Work begins on ‘Akká Visitors’ Centre

Work has now begun on the ‘Akká Visitors’ Centre, which will welcome pilgrims and visitors to the Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and the Riḍván Garden. [...]

An Unbelievable Injustice: Mahvash Sabet and Fariba Kamalabadi sentenced to a second decade in prison in Iran

Amid increasingly violent and repressive actions by Iran’s authorities against their own citizens, two Bahá’í women have been sentenced to a second 10-year imprisonment. [...]

Short film: “A Library for All Who Seek Knowledge”

A short documentary looks at the Afnan Library and its outstanding collection of over 12,000 items covering the Bahá’í Faith and other broadly related subjects. [...]

Zambia: Group of villages awaken to possibilities for raising local educational system

Consultations about Bahá’í educational programs cast light on the growing capacity in Katuyola to address complex challenges associated with the education of young people [...]

“Calls for justice met with violence”: BIC delivers statement at special session of Human Rights Council on Iran

Simin Fahandej, a BIC representative, delivers a statement at 35th special session of the UN Human Rights Council on the deteriorating situation of human rights in Iran. [...]

COP27: Consensus on guiding principles essential to climate action, says BIC

The BIC delegation at the COP27 climate summit participated in numerous discussions, highlighting the need for humanity to recast its relationship with the natural world. [...]

BIC New York: Short film about coral reef restoration project screened at COP27

A film produced by the BIC explores a Bahá’í social action initiative in Tanna, Vanuatu, to revitalize and protect a local coral reef ecosystem. [...]

Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá: Base layer of west berm nearing completion

Construction work continues on the Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, with work on the concrete base layer of the west berm nearly completed. [...]

Food Security: Agricultural resilience depends on education of young farmers, says BIC

The Geneva Office of the BIC explores insights from Bahá’í endeavors that engage young farmers in rural areas through participatory action-research programs. [...]

Austria: Play explores Táhirih’s connection with pioneer of women’s movement

A play staged by the Bahá’ís of Austria explores the connection between Táhirih, a Bahá’í heroine, and Marianne Hainisch, founder of Austria’s women’s movement. [...]

Kazakhstan: Social progress depends on commitment to spiritual principles

Religion has a central role to play in establishing peace, say Bahá’í delegates at the 7th Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions. [...]

BIC New York: Exploring the concept of shared identity during UN General Assembly High-Level Week

The New York Office of the Bahá’í International Community hosted a series of events, exploring the need for a shared identity based on the principle of oneness. [...]

“Love for all humanity”: Contributing to the discourse on racial unity in the Netherlands

The Dutch Bahá’í Office of External Affairs reflects on insights from its experiences in contributing to a discourse on racial unity, exploring the principle of oneness. [...]

BIC Brussels: Exploring agricultural policies in light of the oneness of humanity

The Bahá’í International Community has released a statement exploring the implications of the principle of the oneness of humanity for improving global food security. [...]

United Arab Emirates: Examining religion’s role in fostering peace

The Bahá’ís of the UAE explore insights from experiences in promoting a new kind of dialogue about the constructive role of religion in contemporary society. [...]

Papua New Guinea: Rising temple inspires public participation in weaving project

The emerging Bahá’í House of Worship in PNG—which represents the union of worship and service—is inspiring local residents to assist with the construction of that temple. [...]

Bahá’í studies: “Reading groups” enrich annual ABS conference

The annual ABS conference was enriched this year by insights from a growing number of reading groups exploring questions in various fields in light of Bahá’í principles. [...]

A seamless experience: Charting the future of the educational journey in Zambia

After decades of effort, Bahá’í institutions in Zambia gathered recently to take an expansive view of their educational initiatives, planning for the future [...]

BIC Addis Ababa: Addressing the disproportionate impact of climate crisis on women

The BIC explores the disproportionate impact of climate change on women, emphasizing the principle of equality of women and men as essential to addressing climate issues. [...]

Three weeks in Iran: 200 incidents of Baháʼís being targeted as international community roundly condemns “sweeping crackdown”

Government officials and international media outlets have rushed to the defense of the Bahá’ís of Iran, provoked by an escalating crackdown on the community. [...]

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

The Bahá’í World News Service is now available in Russian, joining the English and three other language-versions of the site. [...]

Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá: Construction project moves forward as cleaning ends

Construction of the Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá continues to advance following the fire caused by an accident in April. The cleaning is set to be completed in the coming days. [...]

Bahá’í World Publication: New article examines the pursuit of social justice

The latest article on The Bahá’í World website explores fundamental Bahá’í principles, correlating them with prevailing conceptions and with movements for social justice. [...]

Houses of Worship: Intricate exterior design of DRC temple comes into view

The emerging Bahá’í House of Worship is inspiring many conversations about service to society—the theme of a newly launched online video series on the temple. [...]

Update: 6 Bahá’í homes destroyed and 20 hectares of land confiscated by Iranian government agents

Government agents sealed off the village of Roushankouh, demolishing Bahá’í homes and confiscating their lands, escalating the persecution of the Bahá’ís of Iran. [...]

Breaking: Shocking demolition of homes and land grabs signals intensifying persecution of Iran’s Baháʼís

In a cruel escalation, up to 200 Iranian government agents have sealed off the village of Roushankouh, where a large number of Baháʼís live, demolishing their homes. [...]

“Senseless cruelty”: Fresh wave of arrests and raids across Iran as Bahá’ís absurdly accused of “colonialism”

The Iranian government issues appalling statement of hate propaganda against country’s Bahá’ís, as it raids 52 homes and businesses, arrests or imprisons 13 individuals. [...]

United Kingdom: How sensationalist journalism obscures view of reality

Experienced journalists sat with the UK Bahá’í Office of Public Affairs to explore how news reporting can promote understanding and dialogue. [...]

Egypt: Short film on Bahá’í community highlights efforts for coexistence

A documentary produced by a news organization in Egypt highlights the history of the Bahá’ís of Egypt and their efforts to contribute to the progress of their society. [...]

BIC New York: 44 Iranian Bahá'ís arrested, arraigned, or jailed as leading human rights figure says situation is “getting worse”

The Iranian government’s systematic campaign to persecute Iran’s Bahá’ís accelerated again with the arrest, court hearing, or imprisonment of more Bahá’ís. [...]

BIC Geneva: Tackling hate speech at nexus of tech, government, and civil society

A BIC forum at the RightsCon summit explored the collaboration that is needed across the tech sector, government, and civil society to address online hate speech [...]

Global Conferences: Worldwide conferences have inspired hope, say societal leaders

Officials and other leaders are expressing appreciation for how the conferences have infused communities with a heightened consciousness of humanity’s oneness. [...]

Azerbaijan: Bahá’í principle of unity inspires national conference on coexistence

The first national conference on coexistence in Azerbaijan was inspired by discussions about the Bahá’í principle of unity in diversity just days before to the event. [...]

BIC New York: Recasting humanity’s relationship with natural world

Released on the occasion of Stockholm+50, the BIC explores root causes of escalating environmental breakdown and highlights principles and proposals for action. [...]

Tunisia: TV interview explores constructive role of religion in society

A representative of Bahá’ís of Tunisia draws on the experience of the Bahá’ís of that country to explore the concept of religion as a force for social progress. [...]

“Family a seedbed for change”: Fostering a new culture of equality in India

The Bahá’í Office of Public Affairs of India shares insights and ideas relevant to the national discourse on the equality of women and men. [...]