Baha’u’llah, (pronounced BAHA oo lah), was born 200 years ago in Persia. He is the Prophet-Founder of the Baha’i Faith. Known for His kindness and generosity, He was given the name “the Father of the poor.” As a child He showed remarkable knowledge never having attended school and grew to be a person of integrity.
Baha’u’llah’s teachings include the oneness of God, the oneness of religion and the oneness of mankind. Because this mission upset both religious and civil authorities in the Persian and Turkish Empires, He was tortured, beaten, poisoned, and exiled. He remained a prisoner for 40 years until His death in 1892.
Baha’u’llah’s teachings are uniquely geared for this time in human history. The pivotal premise of the Baha’i Faith is the essential oneness of humanity. The world today has advanced materially in science, technology, transportation and communication, connecting our world as never before. But the world needs to advance spiritually and grow to see ourselves as one race—the human race—sharing our collective global village.
The Baha’is believe in the fundamental goodness and decency of the masses of our fellow citizens. We are confident that people in our country yearn as we do for spirituality, that they desire genuine justice and prosperity for everyone. Our splintered world needs to include and represent all people in an ever-advancing civilization.
The intention of this article is not a premise for membership. We are interested in connecting with like-minded people, the majority of the people in this country and the world who are yearning for unity, not division, for hopefulness not despair and for inclusion not separateness. All of our endeavors are to foster unity and create stronger communities that include people of every race, nationality, culture and religion including those of no faith.
LIGHT OF UNITY FESTIVAL
On Oct. 22, 2017, the Baha’is of the world are celebrating the 200th birthday of Baha’u’llah. There is an open house in St. Cloud and 2:00-4:00 pm at the Welcome Center, 355 5th Ave South. There will be displays, a short video, free literature and light refreshments for your enjoyment. No donations are accepted. Call with questions, 763-245-3072.
Lea Iverson
CHAIRPERSON OF THE CENTRAL MINNESOTA BAHA’I BICENTENNIAL COMMITTEE
