These stories from the South Island describe how, despite the health crisis, many Bahá’ís and collaborators have continued learning to contribute to the social and spiritual well-being of their communities.
Thoughts from the houses on Holland Ave
The North Island Regional Bahá’í Council presents some learning as shared by friends pioneering in Tamaki, Auckland
Declaration of the Báb: the moment a new world began
The Holy Day for the Declaration of the Báb falls on 22-23 May (8 ‘Aẓamat). Here are offered Sacred Writings and historical accounts to uplift the hearts of readers on this sacred day.
Annual Report describes a community united in action
This article offers a précis of the National Spiritual Assembly’s Annual Report for 176 B.E., which is available to the friends on request.
Kiwi arts initiatives receive global exposure
Our Aotearoa Bahá’í community has done well recently in expressing spiritual themes through the arts. Some of these have featured on the website of the bicentenary of the Birth of the Báb, and in a recent report from Bahá’í World News Service on artists giving service during the pandemic.
Bahá’í National Office services under Level 2
The National Office is not yet opening its doors (except by arrangement) but book sales from the BDS website have resumed. Find out more details in this article.
Race Unity Award speeches to be live-streamed 11-17 May
In the week from 11-17 May, Race Unity Speech Award semi-finalists and finalists are set to share their insights and demonstrate their eloquence to an appreciative online audience.
Counsellor addresses an historic online gathering
Delegates met online to hear the outcome of the National Spiritual Assembly election in which they had cast their votes online, and to hear stirring words of encouragement from Counsellor Tessa Scrine.
Shining lamps: celebrating our Local Spiritual Assemblies
Some notable anniversaries this year serve to remind us how precious are our Local Spiritual Assemblies and how wonderful are the sacrifices of the friends in supporting them.
Sparking constructive conversations on social media
How can we be positive and effective in our social media conversations? A brief compilation and relevant questions offer help with reflecting on themes and approaches.
National Assembly officers elected
Officers of the National Spiritual Assembly were elected at the first meeting of the National Assembly.
Members of the National Spiritual Assembly for 177 B.E.
Results are announced here of the election of the National Spiritual Assembly for 177 B.E., and the National Assembly requests the prayers of the friends as it enters its new term of service.
Work presses on at the site for the Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Work progresses on the site for the Shrine, while health precautions are maintained, and the “elegant geometry” of the design is becoming visible on the ground.
Ridván message: ‘we are supremely confident in your fortitude’
The Universal House of Justice writes to the Baha’is of the world: “The comfort we take at seeing the resilience of the Bahá’í world manifest itself in action is tempered by our sadness at the consequences of the pandemic for humanity.”
Ridván greetings, guidance and inspiration
The National Spiritual Assembly shares encouragement and information, including news of inspiring summer school talks just released on video.
The Festival of Ridván
The Most Great Festival is upon us, three days of which are non-work holy days. The beloved Guardian of the Cause shares the Words of Bahá’u’lláh, extolling the significance of this Festival.
Processes affected by ‘lockdown’ rules
Here is information on changes that have had to be introduced — affecting Ridván elections, Annual Meetings, enrolments, weddings, and funerals.
Village members prepared weeks in advance to protect their community
Bahá’ís in a Slovenian village have been part of efforts to prepare for and mitigate the effects of coronavirus pandemic.
Suffering must propel us to redouble our efforts
Having adapted quickly to new realities brought on by the pandemic crisis, the friends in Aotearoa are well placed to strengthen community-building efforts in the challenging days ahead.
Naw-Rúz Message from the Universal House of Justice
“… an apprehensive world has been coming to terms with a rapidly evolving health crisis affecting the people in many countries, the consequences of which for society cannot yet be estimated with any certainty.”