Unit Conventions - insights and election results
The recent unit conventions offered a unique opportunity for individuals and communities to pause and contemplate the progress of the Faith, and the recommendations and reflections received by the National Assembly provide it with valuable perspectives from the friends.
The recommendations touched on many topics, some of which include building momentum around youth gatherings, the importance of pioneering, the expansion of ISGP to reach a wider group of young people, support for educational endeavours of the training institute in a Māori cultural setting, and summer schools contributing to the creation of a robust community life. Discussions also highlighted the importance of building capacities for engaging with local mārae in mutually supportive ways and encouraging the learning and singing of prayers in te Reo Māori as a way of fostering cultural appreciation and spiritual unity.
An increased need for homefront pioneering was a recurring topic in some consultations. Small and more remote communities are also eager to engage with agencies of the Faith to gain a stronger appreciation of the learning and developments that are occurring based on the vision and framework of the Nine Year Plan.
Gallery
Below is a small selection of photos that show the gathering of friends for unit conventions. They feature Units 12, 13, 14 and 24 and some of the arts and performances of the children who attended.
Photos of gatherings for Units 6, 7, 8, 11 & 18 were shared in a recent Bahá’í Aotearoa article, linked here.
National Convention Delegates
Through prayerful consideration, the friends around the country elected 57 delegates who will attend the National Convention that will take place 26-28 April 2024. These delegates were elected from 24 units across the nation and reflect the diversity of our community. Some 56% of the delegates are females this year. We share with you the list of delegates below. The numbering of units commences at the top of the country and moves to the south in chronological order. Nine of these units are for one community (Units 3 to 11, inclusive, are for Auckland).
