'Exploring Sacred Spaces' highlights harmony of religions
As part of the Auckland Heritage Festival initiated by the Auckland Council, the Bahá'í community recently had the privilege of participating in the Auckland Interfaith Council's "Exploring Sacred Spaces" initiative for the second year. This series of events, aimed at fostering understanding and respect among different faiths, offers a unique opportunity for the public to visit places of worship of various religions over a 3-4 week period and hear directly from each community about their beliefs and practices. The Bahá'í Faith’s contribution took place at the Bahá'í Centre in Manurewa, following the success of last year’s event at the Bahá'í Centre in Glen Innes.
The Bahá'í Sacred Space event gave special emphasis to the Bahá'í principles of service and the unity of humanity. This year's event was organised by a dedicated team of volunteers from the Auckland Bahá'í community, who put together a beautiful programme.
Allan White, a member of the Auckland Interfaith Council’s executive, and a member of the Auckland Bahá'í community, reporting on the event, shared some touching reflections on the success of this year’s Bahá'í Sacred Space presentation. “The spiritual atmosphere was evident, with music, presentations, and the diversity of attendees creating a space of harmony and reverence.” Allan noted how visibly moved the co-president of the Interfaith Council was, as he commented on the impressive turnout and the deep sense of unity within the Bahá'í gathering. He remarked, "The Bahá'ís have lifted the bar again" illustrating how the power of diversity and spiritual connection can leave a lasting impression.
A letter from the Auckland Spiritual Assembly to the Auckland Interfaith Council, expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to participate in this initiative, highlighting the importance of building bridges of understanding between faith communities. It is shared, in full, at the button below.
In response to this letter and the event, the Auckland Interfaith Council wrote the following:
Thank you so much for your Assembly’s beautiful letter and for hosting the Sacred Spaces event at your Manurewa centre. We were truly touched by the warm welcome and the spiritual atmosphere created by your Bahá'í community.
It’s an honour to collaborate with your faith group that is so dedicated to promoting unity, understanding, and the principles of Baha’u’llah’s vision. Your efforts to create a space where people from diverse backgrounds can come together to pray, celebrate, and connect are truly inspiring.
We look forward to being involved in future endeavours as well and continuing to strengthen our partnership with the Bahá'í community.
Best regards
Beate, Ram
On behalf of the Auckland Inter-Faith Council
Photo gallery
Images from this event have been shared with Bahá'í Aotearoa, courtesy of the Auckland Interfaith Council.
For more information about the "Exploring Sacred Spaces" series, please visit the Auckland Interfaith Council website - www.aucklandinterfaithcouncil.org.nz
