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Baha'i Community Life |
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| 1. Who are the Baha'is? 2. How do Baha'is treat each other? 3. I have heard that Baha'is welcome everyone. Is this really true? 4. Can I check out the community in a more informal way, and see it for myself? 5. Is there a Baha'i "code of conduct"? 6. Are children, the elderly, the disabled, etc. all part of the Baha'i community? 7. Do Baha'is get together socially? 8. How are Baha'is involved with the community at large? 1. Who are the Baha'is?
Baha'is are everyone. Baha'is come from all walks of life; from various cultures, races, backgrounds and experiences. The Baha'i Faith is the second most wide-spread religion on earth (after Christianity). It has always been intended for all people. A Baha'i could be your neighbour, or someone you would never have thought you would run into. One of the fundamental values of the Baha'i Faith is an appreciation of diversity, be it of race, age, thinking, approach or expression. Top
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2. How do Baha'is treat each other?
The Baha'i Faith puts a strong emphasis on treating all humanity with respect and kindness. Building a sense of community, of caring, shared vision and trust is one of the highest priorities of the Baha'is. In the Baha'i community, people are called on to treat one another with love and patience. Baha'is are forbidden to engage in backbiting or slander, and are told to treat one another in a spirit of fellowship and harmony. The community is seen as an extension of the family unit, and so Baha'is try to treat each other in this same spirit of love and respect. Top
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3. I have heard that Baha'is welcome everyone. Is this really true?
Baha'u'llah, the founder of the Baha'i Faith, made it very clear that everyone is welcome in the Baha'i Faith. This is not a religion that is exclusive or where the community can decide whether or not to admit individuals. That said, people are imperfect. There are times when our limits and areas of comfort are stretched. Maybe a young punk rocker from England and an older investment banker from Iran won't always see eye to eye. But this is invaluable in building the community! Diversity is necessary and should be celebrated! Baha'is are not perfect, but are trying as sincerely and as tirelessly as they can. Baha'is strive to put our principles and beliefs into action in our everyday lives. Bear in mind, also, that every individual's voice is important in the Baha'i community. If you feel overlooked or unhappy, you can (and should) bring it to the community's attention. Top
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4. Can I check out the community in a more informal way, and see it for myself?
Of course! There are several ways to try and contact Baha'is in your area. The toll free number: 1 (800) 22-Unite will invite you to leave a message for Baha'is near you. They will call you back. Baha'i activities vary according to population and area, but some standard activities might include Sunday classes for children and/or adults, devotional meetings, and "Firesides" or small meetings in an individual's home on different topics. Top
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5. Is there a Baha'i "code of conduct"?
Baha'is do have certain obligations in terms of how they should conduct themselves. The Golden Rule that has been seen in many religions throughout history applies to Baha'is. Baha'is, too, are enjoined to prefer our neighbor before ourselves. Baha'is are also called on to demonstrate and develop different virtues. Some of these are patience, kindness to animals, obedience, respect, love, service towards their fellow man,trustworthiness and mercy. Baha'is may not engage in backbiting or slander, and should at all times demonstrate fairness and uprightness of character. Baha'is do not drink alcohol and do not use illicit drugs. They value chastity, justice and mercy. Baha'is are also reminded to be full of joy and happiness and to remember the merits of humor! Top
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6. Are children, the elderly, the disabled, etc. all part of the Baha'i community?
Absolutely. Young children, the elderly, the disabled, and people from all parts of the human family are part of the Baha'i community. Everyone is welcome, and every individual has a place and a role to play. Top
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7. Do Baha'is get together socially?
Many Baha'is get together socially as well as officially. Baha'is tend to form deep and lasting relationships, and enjoy each other's company. All aspects of community life have a social facet, but of course, people like to see each other at other times, too. Top
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8. How are Baha'is involved with the community at large?
Service to one's fellow man is a basic, fundamental principle of the Baha'i Faith. Every community will most likely have a different way of being of service to their neighbors. Some communities sustain large scale service projects such as parenting classes, literacy training, institutes for the development of American Indians, etc. Others are very small and might do things like volunteer at homeless shelters or help out at youth centers. Each community will have its own needs, abilites and approaches. Top
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