Unit Convention: Carrying out a sacred task
Unit Conventions are being held around the country on Sunday 7 February 2021. Details of venues, times, and head tellers are provided in the table below, along with the information needed for casting absentee ballots.
Throughout the entire planet the devoted followers of Bahá’u’lláh are labouring to develop further the Bahá’í Administrative Order described by the Guardian “not only as the nucleus but the very pattern of the New World Order”, thus setting the foundation for a world civilization destined to yield its dazzling splendour in the centuries to come.
Every individual’s participation in their unit convention on Sunday 7 February 2021 adds to the strength of the Bahá’í community. We all shoulder the responsibility to build the Administrative Order of Bahá’u’lláh.
Those friends who are involved with institute campaigns on the weekend of the 7th are urged to cast a postal vote—and should not feel obliged to attend the convention itself if they are committed to the activities organised by the Regional Councils or training institute over this period.
The institutions of the Faith are in a much stronger position if they receive the firm backing of all the believers. Participating in the election of delegates to the National Convention demonstrates commitment to keeping the flame of the Bahá’í Administration burning bright. It is an act of support for the vital functions which keep the institutions of the Cause growing. Every voter adds another precious voice to the chorus which energises the National Spiritual Assembly’s efforts.
The National Spiritual Assembly is “the pivot round which revolve the activities of the believers” in a country, wrote Shoghi Effendi. It is this pivot that enables us to act coherently together, inspired by our love for Bahá’u’lláh.
Let’s remember that by building up the Administrative Order we are building a model of profound democracy, unheard of in the past.
The Bahá’í election process liberates voters from the pressures of campaign messages (that characterise civil elections), and lets them choose freely and prayerfully according to conscience.
What could be more exciting than helping to build a social structure infused with spirit!
Besides serving as well-informed, prayerful electors, at unit convention we also have the opportunity to consult and offer recommendations to the National Assembly. Unit convention consultations provide a forum where insights are shared from the experiences of all three protagonists (individuals, institutions and communities) that have been gained as they build their capacity for learning through walking a path of service. Such dissemination of insights and learning can boost the community’s progress at the local, cluster, regional and national levels.
Outcomes from such consultation inform the National Assembly of realities on the ground and supply the National Assembly with invaluable feedback.
What could be more exciting than helping to build a social structure infused with spirit?! And how can any community be strong without faithful attention to the fundamental requirements of its functioning by all its members?
Through passion for the well-being of humanity we can make unit convention a wonderfully joyful occasion! Please assist in making it so by preparing well, casting your vote earnestly, and bringing your radiant presence to the event!
