tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4551775534251867362023-12-12T08:04:00.421-06:00teaching.bahai.usshare your story. talk back. advance the Cause.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger854125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-455177553425186736.post-19168773814171573772018-04-26T13:30:00.001-05:002018-04-26T13:30:35.853-05:00<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 12.0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">A collection of <i>just some</i> of the Social and Economic (SED) endeavors that took place in the United States and each represents examples of fixed duration activities. Many of these are the result of junior youth group activities.<br /></span></div>
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<ul>
<li>Street clean up and recycling project, Chicago, IL*</li>
<li>Fundraiser for a mom with cancer in Santa Rosa, CA*</li>
<li>Abrahamic Women's presentation on the role of women in their Faith in University Hts, OH</li>
<li>Adopt-a-Highway cleanup project in Selden, NY</li>
<li>Art Camp for Kids in Rockford, IL</li>
<li>Tree planting in Lake Oswego, OR*</li>
<li>Community garden and food bank in Fargo ND,</li>
<li>Ayyam-i-Ha donation of food to an emergency pantry in Burlington, VT</li>
<li>Free health clinic by volunteer doctor(s) for those without insurance, in Fairfax, VA</li>
<li>Donation of toiletries and non-food items to women/children’s center in South Bend, IN</li>
<li>Parade float of youth with a sign “No room in my heart for prejudice” in Gresham, OR</li>
<li>Planted trees and shrubs in bird sanctuary Forest Preserve in Waukegan, IL</li>
<li>Beach cleanup in Shoreline, WA</li>
<li>Book donations to book bank in Lake Bluff, IL*</li>
<li>Bikes for the World collection and repair charity in Greenbelt, MD</li>
<li>Bingo in a nursing home in Fort Smith, AR*</li>
<li>Blessing Bags stuffed with basic needs for homeless in Reno NV*</li>
<li>Virtue rocks and hot cocoa give-away by children’s class in Bellingham, WA</li>
<li>Stop Bullying campaign in Albuquerque, NM*</li>
<li>Slave Cemetery restoration in Hendersonville, TN</li>
<li>Children’s Peace Garden in Dayton, OH</li>
<li>Climate Change panel discussion in Gainesville FL</li>
<li>Clothing drive in Louisville, KY*</li>
<li>Sewing warm hats for cancer patients in Blackfoot, ID</li>
<li>Fundraiser for Ugandan Bahá’í School in Manhattan Beach, CA</li>
<li>Dedication of historic Black park in Mcallen, TX</li>
<li>Navajo Canyon Habitat Restoration in San Diego, CA</li>
<li>Food drive in Renton, WA*</li>
<li>Suicide Prevention in Washington, DC</li>
<li>Meal preparation for homeless in Evanston, IL*</li>
<li>Making comfort bags for foster children in Spanaway, WA</li>
<li>Free English conversation classes for migrants and refugees in Spokane, WA</li>
<li>Girls Rising spiritual study and positive social activities in Peekskill, NY</li>
<li>Good Guides mentoring program in Peoria, IL</li>
<li>Gospel Music workshops in Los Angeles, CA</li>
<li>Healing the Racial Divide community dialogue and service series in Decatur, GA</li>
<li>Health screening camp for the homeless in Vienna, VA</li>
<li>Making hygiene kits for homeless children in Encino, CA</li>
<li>Pancake breakfast in Upland, CA*</li>
<li>Pet support drive for the Humane Society in Casa Grande, AZ</li>
<li>Police against violence community discussion in High Point, NC</li>
<li>Public discourse on race unity in Alexandria, VA</li>
<li>Empowerment of women workshop in Clearwater, FL</li>
<li>Spanish translators for community health clinic in Woodstock, VA</li>
<li>Soul Food Sundays monthly character-development classes for youth in Ellington, CT</li>
<li>Overcoming violence through an arts conference in Chicago, IL</li>
<li>Dental health project in Portland, OR*</li>
<li>Trafficking/protection of minors multi-Assembly study session in Rancho Cucamonga, CA</li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Denotes a junior youth group project</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: red;"></span></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-455177553425186736.post-84528523929020734972017-06-07T16:15:00.000-05:002017-06-07T16:15:24.500-05:00New Baha’i youth, teaching from “the middle of the woods,” an answer to prayers<br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Seth, 17,
called the Baha’i House of Worship asking how to become a
Baha’i.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">He shared "I truly believe Baha'i is best for me."</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></span>He said he is from a small town
in Georgia “in the middle of the woods.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He is the only Baha'i there and teaching many.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Presently he is engaged with teaching his
atheist friend who asked several questions about the Faith and has taught his
ROTC Sergeant who asked about his Kitab-i-Aqdas book. </span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">A Baha’i who met him shared “He is an amazing 17 year old from Southern
Georgia, about 2 hours from Atlanta,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>who
has studied many different religions and is attracted to the message of
Baha'u'llah because of its unity of all races and people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He also believes in Progressive Revelation
and sees how all religions are connected.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Baha'is had been praying in that area recently and were very excited to
hear of Seth's interest in the Faith, an answer to their prayers!</span></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-455177553425186736.post-87879511887927626362017-06-07T14:56:00.003-05:002017-06-07T14:58:18.972-05:00“Whoso openeth his lips in this Day..."<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><em>“Whoso openeth his lips in this Day and maketh mention of the name
of his Lord, the hosts of Divine inspiration shall descend upon him from the
heaven of My name..” --Baha'u'llah</em></span></b></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p>After a Baha'i opened his lips about the Baha'i Faith, </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><strong>Laura
of Tacoma, WA</strong> accepted the Teachings and registered online followed by her husband 4 days later. Laura shared a little bit about her spiritual
path:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">She
explained she was raised Christian and believed in God and that Jesus was a
“Great Messenger of God,” but never felt that was the right path for her, and
had not been involved in a religious community for a few years because she
could find no like-minded people. She says she always thought everybody was
equal, not that men were better able. She never understood why people disliked
other religions - to her "it's all the same God." <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Laura
said she had heard of the Baha’i Faith several years ago, but last week while
walking in her neighborhood, her son ran to play with some boys, and their
father, Joseph, began to talk to her about the Baha’i Faith. She then searched
online, reading about the Baha’i Faith on Wikipedia, bahai.org, and bahai.us,
and requested more information online. They were invited to a devotional, which
they really enjoyed, and found very comfortable. Laura says she believes the
teachings of Baha'u'llah are God’s teachings for today, and that the Baha’i
Faith “made sense… it sparked something in me… it felt right.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Four
days later her husband also registered online after realizing that the Baha'i
teachings were what he had believed for a long time. He said he was reluctant
to sign up at first because he believed the religions all had the same weight
and didn't want to commit, saying he was one religion.</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He said
he is in a rock band, just got a record deal and hopes to be able to work in
what he loves. He was told about current efforts to put Baha'i Writings to
music, and was very interested in getting involved in that.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-455177553425186736.post-67134411699825112612017-06-07T14:12:00.002-05:002017-06-07T14:12:24.441-05:00Seekers immediately participating in service
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Abigail
of Washington DC is a</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> new Baha’i who is currently going to
devotions and firesides and wants to start a study circle. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">In late January 2017, Abigail viewed the
Rainn Wilson interview with Oprah. She then was so desperate to contact Baha'is
she made a profile on 'Baha'i Singles' She made contact with a Baha'i named
Hassan serving in South Carolina full time. Abigail made a visit to the DC
Baha'i Center Sunday morning devotional program at the DC Baha'i Center where
she met some other Baha'is. Abigail has a family background involving
Evangelical Christianity. The Baha'i she met at the DC Center comes from the
very same background and may be a strong resource for her in the future. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">In the meantime, the Baha’i she met on the website,
Hassan, made arrangements to travel to DC to meet Abigail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Area Teaching Committee Secretary put
Hassan into contact with fellow ATC member doing home visits just that morning.So
Abigail & Hassan did home visits together. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">This is the second recent seeker that was
able to meet a Baha'i and participate in a service activity the same day. This
is a fascinating development within the cluster where seekers are able to
participate in diverse activities during their initial meetings with Baha'is.
Before it was being invited to a devotional or fireside. Now it is
participating in a junior youth group activity, a children's class or, in this
case, accompanying a home visit. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-455177553425186736.post-75584932843653646922016-04-28T13:10:00.002-05:002017-05-04T16:43:33.895-05:00SED Endeavors: More examples in the United States - 15 "fixed" and 7 "sustained"<div class="MsoNormal">
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More examples of FIXED duration projects
underway across the United States in Riḍván 2016<o:p></o:p></div>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">Gatherings <span style="background: white;">to
discuss such topics as the equality of men and women, education of
children, parenting, and health</span>, in Rockville MD<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">Homework assistance in an apartment complex, in
Bethlehem, PA<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">Toiletries for homeless girls and youth, a service
project in Pleasanton, CA<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">A one-week service camp for children with projects for
several organizations, in Corvallis OR<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">Using arts as a means of building community, a
collaboration in Clarkston, GA<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="background: white; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Making Collars for and Visiting Guide
Dog Puppies</span>, in Manatee County, FL (a junior
youth project)<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">A food drive for local food bank, in Peachtree Corners,
GA (a junior youth project)<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">An environmental trail clean-up, in Chula Vista, CA (a
junior youth project)<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">A health camp for junior youth, in Boston, MA<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">A lemonade stand fundraiser for a local children’s
hospital, in Arlington, MA<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">Participation in a City-wide Roadside Clean-up Day, in
Marquette, MI<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="background: white; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Carmel Baha'i School for Youth and Jr.
Youth: Building Vibrant Communities summer camp in Fall Creek, OR</span><o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="background: white; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">An Indigenous Gathering, hosted by the
Continental Board of Counselors in Houck, AZ</span><o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="background: white; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Planting a garden with kids, in
Edinburg, TX</span><o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="background: white; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Volunteering at a soup kitchen in
Evanston, IL</span><o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
More
examples of some SUSTAINED ENDEAVORS reported within the United States . . .<o:p></o:p></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">The
Mona Foundation, an educational program in Kirkland, WA (visit:
https://www.monafoundation.org/)</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">A
Bahá’í Choir for World Peace, in Baltimore, MD</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">The
Bahá’í Chair for World Peace, at the University of Maryland, MD (visit:
http://www.bahaichair.umd.edu/)</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">The
Unity Museum, an educational endeavor, in Seattle, WA (visit: http://unitymuseum.org/)</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">A
scholarship Fund to local community college, by the Local Assembly of Walla
Walla, WA</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">A
recording studio which promotes wholesome musical arts, spoken word, and oral
history in Dallas, TX</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Parent</span><span style="line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">
University in Savannah, GA (visit:
https://www.facebook.com/ParentUniversitySav/)</span></li>
</ul>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-455177553425186736.post-8106082755225502112016-04-26T19:03:00.002-05:002016-04-28T12:40:17.465-05:00SED Endeavors in the USA - 30 examples of FIXED duration projects & 5 examples of SUSTAINED endeavors<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A collection of <i>just
some</i> of the Social and Economic (SED) endeavors that took place over the
past year, represent examples of fixed duration activities. Many of them are
the result of junior youth group (JYG) activities.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: 115%;">Assembled "survival kits" for
homeless youth shelter clients</span>, in Seattle,
WA (a JYG project)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Assisting
with Soup Kitchen at a homeless shelter, in </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Denver CO</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> (a JYG project)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">Adopt-a-mile</span> road clean up, in Alpharetta GA (a JYG project)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;">Produced a video about the environment and
recycling by an elementary school, in </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Chicago,
IL</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Tai Kwan Do
classes for children & junior youth, in </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Conway, SC</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">A science
& religion workshop hosted at Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute, in </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Hemingway, SC</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Forest
stewardship, in </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Northbrook, IL</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">Tree planting, wall painting, volunteering
at breast cancer walk, volunteering at an animal shelter,</span> in Fresno, CA <span style="line-height: 115%;">(JYG projects)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">Made bird feeders for nursing home and
school</span>, in Lewisville, TX <span style="line-height: 115%;">(a JYG project)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Homework Assistance
Thursday at the </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">San Diego CA</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> Bahá’í Center</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">Manicures at a nursing home</span>, in Nashville, TN <span style="line-height: 115%;">(a JYG project)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Beach clean-up,
in </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Richmond, CA</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> (a JYG project)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">Mistletoe Sale to benefit homeless shelter</span>,
in Cottage Grove, OR <span style="line-height: 115%;">(a JYG project)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Food for Lane
County food bank, an agricultural-community garden project, in </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Eugene, OR</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">Syrian Refugee project</span>, in Phoenix, AZ</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">Blankets for seniors in assisted living
centers</span>, in Grand Rapids, MI
(a youth and young adults project)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">Education is not a crime</span> campaign,
in Rancho Mirage, CA</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;">Slave Cemetery Clean-up, in </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Hendersonville, TN</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">Made blankets, took them to homeless
shelter serving families</span>, in Des
Moines, IA <span style="line-height: 115%;">(a JYG project)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">Car wash fundraiser for trip to the UN to
benefit refugees, in Hopewell, NJ </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">(a JYG project)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Participation
in </span><span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">city-wide planning to identify issues and
create solutions</span>, in Rockford, IL</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">Disaster prep workshop</span>, for health
& safety, in Vancouver, WA</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">Teach knitting and crocheting to students
in after school program</span>, in Florence,
OR</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Seminar on “</span><span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">What is Our Path of Service for the Betterment of the World?</span>”
in Adamstown, MD</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">Ayyam-i-Ha Pet drive</span>, collected
supplies for humane society shelter, in Casa
Grande, AZ</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">Participation in a peace event organized by
Interfaith Council, in La Mesa</span>,
CA</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Organized
children’s activities during school breaks at the Maplewood Library, in </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Rochester, NY</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">Panel discussion on World Religions</span>,
at Ball State University in Muncie, IN</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Painted
outdoor furniture and cleaned up retreat center, in </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Dallas, TX</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">Stuffed “Blessing Bags” with basic needs to
handout to homeless</span>, in Everett,
WA <span style="line-height: 115%;">(a JYG project)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Carmel Baha'i
School for Youth and Jr. Youth: Building Vibrant Communities summer camp in </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Fall Creek, OR</span></span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Some examples of sustained endeavors reported this year.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">WLGI, radio Bahá’í
(</span><a href="http://wlgi.org/" style="line-height: 115%;">http://wlgi.org/</a><span style="line-height: 115%;">) in </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Hemingway, SC</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">Tahirih justice Center</span> (<a href="http://www.tahirih.org/">http://www.tahirih.org/</a>), for protection of
immigrant women & girls, in Falls
Church, VA</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Multicultural
Health education for minorities, in </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Sarasota,
FL</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Health for
Humanity (http://www.healthforhumanity.us/), bringing together people and
resources to solve problems, in </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">New
York, NY</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">The Children’s
Theater Company (</span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/CTCNYC" style="line-height: 115%;">www.facebook.com/CTCNYC</a><span style="line-height: 115%;">),
</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">bring out the voices of children and
youth for positive change, in </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">New York,
NY</span></span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-455177553425186736.post-74534379844853270522016-04-25T17:29:00.004-05:002016-04-28T13:11:41.027-05:00Examples of SED Endeavors across the USA<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">Some examples of social and economic development endeavors underway across the country . . .<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 13pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">Planting a garden in a neighborhood in Naples FL with another organization<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 13pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">Offering seminars and scholarships through the Esperanza Foundation in Portola CA<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 13pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">Church-sponsored talks, potluck and speakers on MLK Day in Scottsville VA<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 13pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">“To Light a Candle” documentary on religious and educational freedom, across the USA<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 13pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">Roadside cleanup in Grand Rapids MN<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 13pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">“Education is not a Crime” seminar and consultations, across the USA<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 13pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">Pet rescue volunteer service in Trophy Club TX<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 13pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">Clothing drive in Camas WA<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 13pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">Student Virtues Aware program to high school students in La Crescenta CA<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 13pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">Tutoring program in Bethlehem PA<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 13pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">Earth Day Fair on climate change in Milford MI<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 13pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">Race Equality Discourse in Rocklin CA<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 13pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">Brilliant Stars Park cleanup in Fontana CA<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 13pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">Trash Bash neighborhood cleanup in Richardson TX</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-455177553425186736.post-25162369607266517712015-10-23T12:46:00.001-05:002015-10-23T12:46:12.916-05:00"I am 19 years old and . . . I am so happy"
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Ken contacted the Bahá’ís and shared this
about his discovery of the teachings of the Faith. He is now engaged with other
youth within his university. </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 12pt -0.25in 0pt 0.5in; tab-stops: right 459.0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I am
19 years old and for years [I] have researched endlessly [about] religions and their
beliefs. I have read many scriptures and have even taken courses in order to
provide an idea of what faith I truly believe in my heart. I had not found it
until last night when I had a revelation after reading an article about unity
of faith. And that was by a Christian! All of my stress and internal turmoil
was immediately alleviated. I am so happy. Soul filled with true joy, and I
have been led to this faith :)</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 12pt -0.25in 0pt 0.5in; tab-stops: right 459.0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></i> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 12pt -0.25in 0pt 0.5in; tab-stops: right 459.0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></i> </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-455177553425186736.post-61729370793492480192015-10-23T12:25:00.001-05:002015-10-23T12:25:26.859-05:00The laws within the Bahá’í Faith are timely at this time in human history
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Karri is in her mid-20s.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She registered her decision to become a Bahá’í
on www.bahai.us. The local Bahá’í who called her to talk about the decision to
declare shared this about how she became engaged in community life.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 12pt -0.25in 0pt 0.5in; tab-stops: right 459.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Her interest in the Bahá’í Faith began three
years ago, during a World Religions class in which each person was instructed
to attend services from three different faiths of their choice, and one of Karri's
choices was the Bahá’í Faith.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She has
already studied the books “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Reflections on
the Life of the Spirit</i>” and “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Arising
to Serve</i>” with a local Bahá’í.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
also attends prayer devotionals in the community.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her interest in the Faith included the fact
that she is a social worker and she feels the laws within the Bahá’í Faith are
timely for society at large at this time in human history.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 12pt -0.25in 0pt 0.5in; tab-stops: right 459.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 12pt -0.25in 0pt 0.5in; tab-stops: right 459.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-455177553425186736.post-49082029467752643032015-10-23T12:14:00.001-05:002015-10-23T12:14:16.765-05:00The Bahá’í Faith: "It's a good fit."
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Jenna decided she wanted to become a member of the Bahá’í Faith and registered her declaration online at <a href="http://www.bahai.us/"><span style="color: blue;">www.bahai.us</span></a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Here is what she shared about her initial interests in learning more about the Faith.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 12pt -0.25in 0pt 0.5in; tab-stops: right 459.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I am
interested in exploring the Bahai Faith. I have recently spoken with a friend
about beliefs of the Bahai Faith, and it seems to make more sense to me than
Christianity. I have long struggled with the idea of organized religion, so
have done very little to pursue connection with one particular church. I
believe there is one God, and I crave a personal relationship with Him. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>. . . phone contact would be best, as my
husband would be skeptical about my interest with Bahai.”</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 12pt -0.25in 0pt 0in; tab-stops: right 459.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Bahá’ís who met with her share this about
Jenna's journey.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 12pt -0.25in 0pt 0.5in; tab-stops: right 459.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Jenna has a daughter who will be seven in a
few weeks. She considered registering her daughter as well, but wanted to be
sure that the father was in agreement before doing so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The daughter is currently attending children's
classes at a local church in order to have some spiritual
exposure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She and her daughter have read
Bahá’í prayers together; she is looking for parenting support among the Bahá’ís.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She has also reconnected with the old high
school friend who first introduced her to the Faith almost 2 years ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jenna is an educator and finds that the
message of the Bahá’í Faith about the beauty of diversity and the goal of a unified
world resonates with her both spiritually and professionally.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She shared with me that, "It's a good
fit."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-455177553425186736.post-76268214693703386542015-10-23T12:00:00.002-05:002015-10-23T12:04:59.541-05:00From further conversation to finding friends with common interests<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 12pt -0.25in 0pt 0in; tab-stops: right 459.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Jennifer called 800-22UNITE (800-228-6483) for
more information about the Bahá’í Faith.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This is what she shared about herself.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></span></span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 12pt -0.25in 0pt 0.5in; tab-stops: right 459.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">My
mother has been involved in Bahá'í for many years [and] we were discussing a
lot of things and she suggested it again to me so I decided to call. I like the
idea of the betterment of relationship of cultures</i>.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 12pt -0.25in 0pt 0in; tab-stops: right 459.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The friends in the community were happy to
call her back and meet with her. This is what they shared.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 12pt -0.25in 0pt 0.5in; tab-stops: right 459.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Jennifer attended our devotional on Saturday.
She showed much interest, had questions about the brochures I gave her, and she
has connected with a Bahá’í in the community with whom she has many similar
interests. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: x-small;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></span>
</span><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-455177553425186736.post-76880295919242843952015-05-13T18:44:00.001-05:002015-05-13T18:44:20.035-05:00How the Baha'is of Baltimore responded to the crises
<br />
<div class="Default" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">In April 2015, the tragic death of Freddie Gray plunged the city
of Baltimore into turmoil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although much
public attention was placed on the symptoms of civil unrest, protests and in
some cases, violence, conversations across the city increasingly brought into
light the unmet need for unity as an underlying condition. In neighborhoods,
communities and a city working to continue on a path of development, the ties
that brought groups of people together to work towards a common cause despite
differences of age, class, race, religion or other social boundaries were
called on to contribute to reconstruction of the city, in bricks and in spirit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="Default" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">In the acute phase of unrest, the Local Spiritual Assembly began
consulting on how efforts could be made to contribute to the city’s
development, and began with a call over email to community members to
decentralize [activities] into neighborhood gatherings open to all, to create a
space for learning and consultation. This began a process . . . <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>structures of the Bahá’í community were able
to provide a scaffold for building bonds of friendship, unity, and community
development.</span></span><span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="Default" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The response of the Baha’i community to crises in Baltimore City
included several lines of mobilization by . . . <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="Default" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 13pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">adapting the current framework of activities
to meet the needs of unity in neighborhoods <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="Default" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 13pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">expansion of activities to meet these needs <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="Default" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 13pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">mobilizing groups of people who have been
serving together to carry out conversations and acts of service <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="Default" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 13pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">working alongside other groups to contribute
to community development <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="Default" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 13pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">use of social media for conversations and
outreach <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="Default" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">In exploration of ongoing activities . . .
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="Default" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">•</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Feast was adapted into "unity" Feasts,
resulting in an increase in participation, both from community members and
generality of friends. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="Default" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">•</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Holy Day event was adapted to discussion
about ongoing crises in Baltimore City. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="Default" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">•</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Devotionals were both adapted and expanded to
address needs for unity. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="Default" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">•</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Study circles were adaptable to provide a
space for discussion. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="Default" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">•</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Junior youth were mobilized to be of service
and to carry out conversations in the city. In both cases, members of the public expressed
appreciation for services and voices of the young. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="Default" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">•</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Home visits and quality of connections within
increased during the most acute phase of the crisis. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-455177553425186736.post-87510313072484732562015-05-13T18:29:00.002-05:002015-05-13T18:29:45.091-05:00SED: Dialogue on Race & Ethnicity in Baltimore
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The friends in Baltimore share how they responded to questions about race.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div style="margin-left: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">We were
invited to join with the First Unitarian church of Baltimore in an ADORE (a
dialogue on race and ethnicity) on Friday, May 1st. From the Baha’i Community
we had youth and junior youth and adults [many from the wider community joined
us]. We initially shared a pot luck meal together and were able to meet
the members of the church as well as their other guests. Then we gathered and
everyone introduced themselves. Interestingly, almost all the youth were from
the Baha’i Community. There were also members of other Unitarian churches from
around the area and members of the Maryland Ethical Society and some
individuals that did not identify themselves with any organization. We then all
watched a TED talk that focused on institutional racism. This was very
informative; the audience then was divided in groups of 2 for a 15 minute
dialogue to come up with a message to help Baltimore city's problems of racism.
Everyone was told to pick a person that they did not know before and a
different age group than themselves. This encouraged our youth to hold
dialogues with adults. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-left: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">At the end
of the small group conversations, then people had a chance to share what they
talked about. Every one of the youths that attended from the Baha'i community,
bravely raised their hands and shared their thoughts. Even the youth that are
usually quiet during youth group felt empowered to share. This was impressive
sight to hear them eloquently express their thought and paths of action with a
large group of people they had never met before. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-left: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">After this
discussion the Unitarian Minster shared a few words and let everyone in an
exercise of breathing in and breathing out. Then we were invited to join this
dialogue again on June 12th. The members of the Unitarian church then held
lighted candles and went outside to stand in a vigil and sing songs about
Unity. Some of the Baha'i Community members joined in as well. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-left: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">This was
very educational for the junior youth group and it was very refreshing for the
Unitarian Church to have the youth involved. Speaking to one of the members,
she stated that they are [learning about] engaging their youth, and she was
interested in activities to join our youths together. She may bring her
daughter to the next junior youth group meeting on Friday. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-455177553425186736.post-66120739933105863852015-04-30T12:44:00.003-05:002015-04-30T12:44:15.156-05:00SED: Samples of endeavors reported for 2015
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Some examples
of social and economic development endeavors underway across the country . . . <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 13pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Planting a
garden in a neighborhood in Naples FL with another organization<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 13pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Offering
seminars and scholarships through the Esperanza Foundation in Portola CA<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 13pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Church-sponsored
talks, potluck and speakers on MLK Day in Scottsville VA<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 13pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">“To Light a
Candle” documentary on religious and educational freedom, across the USA<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 13pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Roadside
cleanup in Grand Rapids MN<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 13pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">“Education
is not a Crime” seminar and consultations, across the USA<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 13pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Pet rescue
volunteer service in Trophy Club TX<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Clothing
drive in Camas WA<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Student
Virtues Aware program to high school students in La Crescenta CA<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 13pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
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program in Bethlehem PA<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Earth Day
Fair on climate change in Milford MI<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 13pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
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Equality Discourse in Rocklin CA<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 13pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Brilliant
Stars Park cleanup in Fontana CA<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
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neighborhood cleanup in Richardson TX<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-455177553425186736.post-41750536823688952802015-04-30T12:23:00.000-05:002015-04-30T12:44:35.699-05:00SED in Ithaca NY: "We still have time"<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 12pt 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="yiv1483885880"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The
Ithaca Junior Youth Group was formed in November 2010, and since then the
participants have been involved in different service project in the
community: </span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="background: white; margin: 12pt 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 13pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11376"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span class="yiv1483885880"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">They’ve performed step dances
in several local Festivals (like the Food Justice Summit, the Boricua Festival
or Juneteenth) to raise awareness about the power of youth to make changes and
the potency of united work. </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="background: white; margin: 12pt 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span class="yiv1483885880"></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 13pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span class="yiv1483885880"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11377">They’ve raised money for
several causes - some of them sponsored by local organizations (like the SPCA
of Tompkins County or Green Star Community Projects), and some of them
international (like Hope is Life Foundation and one of their schools in Haiti,
or Mujeres Solares in Costa Rica).</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="background: white; margin: 12pt 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="yiv1483885880"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 13pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span class="yiv1483885880"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">They’ve
supported local efforts to ban the use of plastic bags in Ithaca by organizing
video forums in their neighborhood and their own middle school classrooms,
collecting signatures, and participating in public meetings to support this
cause.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 12pt 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="yiv1483885880"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">In
2012 it started in Ithaca a project organized by </span></span><span class="yiv1483885880"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></span><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_16978"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_16977"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_16976"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_16975"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_16974"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_16973"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_16972"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_16971"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_16970"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_16969"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_16968"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_16967"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_16966"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_16965"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_16964">the Public Art Commission (PAT) called
"21 Boxes", which according to that commission: </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>"[the]
<span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11362"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11361"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11360"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11367"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11366"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11372"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11371"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11370"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11369"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11368"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_15638"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_15637"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_15636"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_15635"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_15634">Artwork displayed on electrical boxes
functions as a form of communication to a moving audience with the goal of
creating a safe, inclusive and inspired urban environment. Successful proposals
will foster community good will and become a beacon of neighborhood
pride." </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11362"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11361"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11360"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11367"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11366"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11372"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11371"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11370"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11369"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11368"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11362"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11361"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11360"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11367"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11366"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11372"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11371"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11370"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11369"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11368">That project has been
happening every year</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
since then. </span></span></span></span></span><span class="yiv1483885880"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 12pt 0in 0pt;">
<span class="yiv1483885880"></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The
participants of the group, all of them very artistic oriented, felt in love
with the idea of painting one box, using it as a way to share a positive
message with the people of Ithaca. By the end of 2013 they submitted a
proposal which was approved, and they painted during May and June of 2014.
The process of thinking of what to paint it was itself a great experience of
consultation and reflection. This is how they described their mural:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 12pt 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<span class="yiv1483885880"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"With our mural,
called 'We still have time', the Junior Youth Group illustrates our desire for
a happy future where people live in harmony with each other and nature, thus we
created an image of a bright future. The b<span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11359"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11358"><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11365">uildings are powered by
alternative energy. People get around the cities on foot, bike, and mass
transit. </span><span id="yiv1483885880yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_11364">Unity
is depicted by little people holding hands and kids feeling safe to play
outdoors.</span></span>”<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 12pt 0in 0pt;">
<span class="yiv1483885880"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">All of
this is painted along the bottom of the painting/drawing in black silhouette,
without color. The sky is a gorgeous collaboration of stars and beautiful
colors, the style similar to starry night. A small fun detail that will appeal
to youth is a TARDIS time machine from “Doctor Who” flying through the sky,
which plays on the idea of</span> <span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1430317660016_20136">time
and the future."</span></span></span><span class="yiv1483885880"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-455177553425186736.post-59407135969978863332015-04-28T19:34:00.000-05:002015-04-28T19:34:03.410-05:00I didn't understand why the churches were not in unity
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 12pt 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“I had a job in a northern town of Indiana. It was
a long way from where I lived and I had to drive to the job site. On the day
the job started, I arrived early and had some time to kill. I was walking
around the parking lot near where the job was and I saw a water logged piece of
paper lying on the ground. I picked it up and it was a pamphlet about the
Baha'i Faith. I carefully opened the pages and started to read the information.
I started to think that this is what I believe. I was raised a Southern Baptist
and didn't believe all that I was told. I didn't understand why the churches
were not in unity . . . <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I went online
and found the Baha'i website and registered."<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-455177553425186736.post-45736663853399594882015-04-28T19:30:00.001-05:002015-04-28T19:30:19.834-05:00I was never a devout Christian to begin with . . .
<br />
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“ . . . I was never a, "devout,"
Christian to begin with. After a lot of research and reading about the
foundations of the Baha'i Faith, I really agree with a lot of them. I think one
of the ones that stood out for me is that we are all one. Not necessarily
segregated due to religious beliefs. I remember at Christmas, my uncle
was asking why I didn't bring [my Baha’i boyfriend] with me. He was out of town
visiting family, but also he does not celebrate Christmas. Then of course the
whole family surrounded me, and asked me what his beliefs were. When I said he
was a Baha'i, they were really confused and made some jokes about it. My mom
and I have also talked about it, and she seemed to be really put off at first,
and she said, "Well, I don't really know what that is... But if he doesn't
believe in God, then . . ." I interrupted her, and corrected her. I think it
just scared her a bit, because she was afraid I would end up with someone who
does not believe in God! Lol. But I really like the fact that it unifies all
social classes, nationality, culture, and religious beliefs. I feel like it
focuses a lot on peace and kindness. Practicing patience, and serving your
community, which are all things that I am very passionate about, as opposed to
condemning people for their wrong doings . . . . I don't think any
type of religion should do this to anyone . . .”<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-455177553425186736.post-4123802688523751992015-04-28T19:19:00.003-05:002015-04-28T19:19:45.735-05:00It made a lot of sense; it clicked for me
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Julie shared . . . </span></span></i><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 12pt 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“It made a lot of sense; it clicked with me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I started going to weekly meetings that
started with the Báb and 'Abdu'l-Bahá and Bahá’u'lláh and His journey and the
Holy Land and the Universal House of Justice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Someone shared a video about the youth conferences that went on and the
fun activities that the youth activities did that made me excited about
starting up some things here in Iowa.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My
sister is working with some young girls and I've been interested in getting
study groups together or community activities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I learned more about Bahá’u’lláh, then I finally made a conclusion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I really enjoy the faith.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It brings a lot of feelings and a lot of
positive things have happened since I learned about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Every time I read the scriptures, it gives me
positive feelings . . . I saw the video how we focus on the junior youth group age.</span></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 12pt 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Even before I found the Faith I found there
shouldn't be division of people because we’re all humans, all created by God
for a reason.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That's why I felt lost in
the Christian household.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That's why I'm
glad I found the Bahá’í Faith.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
answered a lot of questions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn't
know which way to go and it just made so much sense and made me so happy.</span></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 12pt 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It’s so exciting to learn about Bahá’u’lláh and
'Abdu'l-Bahá.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s the dawn of a new
day, the dawn of a new cycle, great to be living in these times.”</span></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></i> </div>
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<span style="font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-455177553425186736.post-31114061906777338382015-04-28T19:18:00.000-05:002015-04-28T19:18:26.903-05:00I cannot overstate the degree to which this Faith has chamged my life
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Anthony shared . . . </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">“One year ago today I took a blind step into the world of the
Bahá’í Faith, this after becoming acquainted with it through a series of very
brief evening broadcast spots on National Public Radio and having spent several
months investigating it further online….Prior to the call back I received from
a representative about 24 hours later, I had not met a single Bahá’í . . . </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I was attracted to its explicit commitment to the unification of
humanity, and its core principles of religious and scientific harmony,
eradication of prejudice, equality of men and women, and proposal for a
universal education, among others. I cannot overstate the degree to which this
Faith has changed my life. I believe I have grown more in the short space of a
year than in the past 5 years. From coasting through life depressed, isolated,
and disenchanted, I had quickly emerged into an active member of my community
and have cemented many strong friendships. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I have now made it a priority of mine to help guide the youth in
my community along their own path of spiritual empowerment and enlightenment,
as this is where we will begin to bear witness to the fruits of incipient
change. I am overflowing with thankfulness and am duly humbled by the sheer level
of enthusiasm and rapidity with which I have been accepted into the Baha’i
family. I truly do feel like I have 'come back home'. Serving, fellowshipping,
and worshipping among my brothers and sisters has endued me with a renewed
sense of purpose and belonging. I heartily await what the future holds for me.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span><o:p></o:p> </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-455177553425186736.post-89854343359820848652015-04-28T19:15:00.001-05:002015-04-28T19:15:00.923-05:00I would like to see if it is a good fit for me and my husband
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Jessica
shared . . . </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">“I am very interested in the Baha'i faith and community and I would
like to see if it is a good fit for [me] and my husband, as we are looking for
new directions and a community of like-minded individuals.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span><o:p></o:p> </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-455177553425186736.post-19982479652341417902015-04-28T19:08:00.002-05:002015-04-28T19:08:08.973-05:00From what I have read so far, my beliefs are on the same path
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Tina shared . . . </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">“I am interested in learning about Baha'i. From what I have read so
far, my beliefs are on the same path.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-455177553425186736.post-38981830902117502562015-04-28T19:05:00.002-05:002015-04-28T19:05:17.783-05:00I have never been big on religion or church . . .
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Lonnie
shared . . . </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">“I'm very fascinated with the Baha'i Faith and outlook on religion.
I'm 19 years old and I have never been very big on religion or church. I feel
like religion isn't something that should be judged and so many religions
discriminate [against] anyone who doesn't believe exactly what they do.”</span><o:p></o:p></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-455177553425186736.post-58780297410539414182015-04-28T18:59:00.003-05:002015-04-28T18:59:59.703-05:00My family and I are very interested . . .
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Jennifer shared what she is
looking for . . . .<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">"I came across the Baha'i faith through conversations with a
family member and I am so excited to find a group that I could belong to and
whole heartedly support. My family and I are very interested to learn
more!"<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-455177553425186736.post-4343815421230956502014-10-06T15:52:00.003-05:002014-10-06T15:52:49.582-05:00"How does someone introduce the Baha'i Faith without having a debate?"
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Recently, the Baha’is were contacted by someone through <a href="http://www.bahai.us/"><span style="color: blue;">www.bahai.us</span></a> and asked this question:</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">“</span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">How
[does someone] introduce the Baha'i Faith to other people w/o having a debate?”</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">This is of course a wonderful question, and the response that was
provided by a Baha'i is as follows . . . .</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">There is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about becoming a better
teacher of the Baha’i Faith by attending a study circle, or informal, small
study group using the book “Teaching the Cause,” the sixth book in a series of
books published by the Ruhi Institute that all Baha’is are encouraged to
participate in, which also includes putting what one learns into practice.</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Some quotations shared in this book from Baha’u’llah, ‘Abdu’l-Baha, and
the Guardian of the Baha’i Faith, that you may find helpful include the
following:</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">"Among the teachings of
Bahá’u’lláh is His declaration that religion must be the cause of love and
fellowship, must be the source of unity in the hearts of men. If religion
becomes a cause of enmity and hatred, it is evident that the abolition of
religion is preferable to its promulgation . . .” </span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">“If ye be aware of a certain truth, if
ye possess a jewel, of which others are deprived, share it with them in a
language of utmost kindliness and good-will. If it be accepted, if it fulfil
its purpose, your object is attained. If any one should refuse it, leave him
unto himself, and beseech God to guide him. Beware lest ye deal unkindly with
him. A kindly tongue is the lodestone of the hearts of men. It is the bread of
the spirit, it clotheth the words with meaning . . .” </span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">“The teaching work “should be tempered
with wisdom--not that wisdom which requireth one to be silent and forgetful of
such an obligation, but rather that which requireth one to display divine
tolerance, love, kindness, patience, a goodly character, and holy deeds . . . ” </span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">"Not everything that a man knoweth
can be disclosed nor can everything that he can disclose be regarded as timely,
nor can every timely utterance be considered as suited to the capacity of those
who hear it." </span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">“In accordance with the divine
teachings in this glorious dispensation we should not belittle anyone and call
him ignorant, saying: "You know not, but I know". Rather, we should
look upon others with respect, and when attempting to explain and demonstrate,
we should speak as if we are investigating the truth, saying: "Here these
things are before us. Let us investigate to determine where and in what form
the truth can be found." The teacher should not consider himself as
learned and others ignorant. Such a thought breedeth pride, and pride is not
conducive to influence. The teacher should not see in himself any superiority;
he should speak with the utmost kindliness, lowliness and humility, for such speech
exerteth influence and educateth the souls.” </span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">“They must be neither provocative nor
supine, neither fanatical nor excessively liberal, in their exposition of the
fundamental and distinguishing features of their Faith. Thy must be either wary
or bold, they must act swiftly or mark time, they must use the direct or
indirect method, they must be challenging or conciliatory, in strict accordance
with the spiritual receptivity of the soul with whom they come in contact,
whether he be a nobleman or a commoner, a northerner or a southerner, a layman
or a priest, a capitalist or a socialist, a statesman or a prince, an artisan
or a beggar. In their presentation of the Message of the Baha'u'llah they must
neither hesitate nor falter. They must be neither contemptuous of the poor nor
timid before the great. In their exposition of its verities they must neither
over stress nor whittle down the truth which they champion, whether their
hearer belong to royalty, or be a prince of the Church, or a politician, or a
tradesman, or a man of the street. To all alike, high or low, rich or poor,
they must proffer, with open hands, with a radiant heart, with an eloquent
tongue, with infinite patience, with uncompromising loyalty, with great wisdom,
with unshakeable courage, the Cup of Salvation, at so critical an hour, to the
confused, the hungry, the distraught and fear-stricken multitudes . . ." </span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Finally, we are assured that . . .
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<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">“Whoso openeth his lips in this Day and
maketh mention of the name of his Lord, the hosts of Divine inspiration shall
descend upon him from the heaven of My name, the All-Knowing, the All-Wise. On
him shall also descend the Concourse on high, each bearing aloft a chalice of
pure light.”</span></i></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-455177553425186736.post-7699476133829423232014-09-22T15:20:00.000-05:002014-09-22T15:20:13.098-05:00"Baha'i might fulfill our needs"
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Jennifer first discovered the Baha'i Faith by driving past the
Baha'i House of Worship located in Wilmette Illinois.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here is what that discovery now means to her.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I passed the Baha'i temple and
thought it was absolutely beautiful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
googled what it was . . . I didn't even know a religion like this existed. It
is exactly what I believe essentially.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
was raised Greek Orthodox, and I enjoyed it, but I just feel like I am not
exclusively Christian.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In fact, I am
simply in support of all religions and anybody working towards peace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have a 3 month old baby and would love to
introduce religion into her life and think Baha'i might fulfill our needs.</span><o:p></o:p></i></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0