October 2019 SPECIAL BICENTENARY ISSUE
Another bicentenary? 
Didn’t the Baha’is just have a bicentenary?

YES! In 2017 the world-wide Baha’i community celebrated a bicentenary—the 200 th anniversary of the Birth of Baha’u’llah, God’s Messenger for this Day and the Founder of the Baha’i Faith.

This year the community is celebrating a second bicentenary, the 200th anniversary of the birth of the Bab. In 1844, the Bab announced that humanity was entering a new era and that people should prepare themselves to receive new teachings from God—teachings that would have the power to renew civilization. These teachings were later revealed by Baha’u’llah. Through them the whole world can unite to create lasting justice, unity, and peace. Plus, some Baha'is just enjoy celebrating!

View photos, videos and stories of celebrations
all across AMERICA

See celebrations WORLD-WIDE

FIND a bicentenary celebration near you
O Lord! Unto Thee I repair for refuge, and toward all Thy signs I set my heart.

O Lord! Whether traveling or at home, and in my occupation or in my work, I place my whole trust in Thee.

Grant me then Thy sufficing help so as to make me independent of all things, O Thou Who art unsurpassed in Thy mercy!

Bestow upon me my portion, O Lord, as Thou pleasest, and cause me to be satisfied with whatsoever Thou hast ordained for me.

Thine is the absolute authority to command.
--the Bab
Watch newly released film about the Bab
The Shrine of the Bab, Haifa, Israel
Inspired by the power of prayer, women in the community of Del Sur, San Diego support each other by unifying their voices and quenching their thirst for spirituality. They transform their words into action by starting children’s classes, devotionals and study circles to help their community.

The Baha'i Response to the Crises of our Time

Audiobook in four parts
by Joan Barstow Hernandez
Propelled by the energy and excitement accompanying the two recent bicentenaries, Baha'is in the U.S. are increasingly engaged in community-building activities.

In her book, "Baha'i Response to the Crises of our Times," Joan Hernandez explains how the efforts of each individual contributes to a revitalized society.

Tales of early believers come alive following NC workshops
“Soul-stirring stories” about early believers have been swirling around North Carolina’s Triangle area for a number of months.

The inspiration springs from the upcoming 200th anniversary of the birth of the Bab, herald of the Baha’i Faith, in October.

The confidence to tell such stories was born of a workshop held May 19 at the Durham Baha’i Center for 36 area residents.

From Brilliant Star Magazine

Created to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the birth of the Báb, the “Light of Faith” issue of features stories and activities about the Báb’s mission and the oneness of religion, including:

  • A two-page illustrated timeline of key events in the Báb’s life;
  • The story of the Báb’s house arrest and His influence on the people of Shíráz;
  • A story and activity about Bahá’u’lláh’s recognition of the Báb’s divine station;
  • A “Shining Lamp” profile of the wife of the Báb, Khadíjih Bagum;
  • A “Stargazer” interview with Bahá’í scholar Dr. Moojan Momen, who talks about the Báb;
  • A fun lantern craft honoring the light from God that shines in all faiths;
  • Explorations of the Báb’s station and the oneness of religion through puzzles, a drawing activity, interviews with kids, and more.

Take part in "Fireside"

Firesides are informal gatherings for introductory conversations about the Baha'i Faith. They are excellent opportunities for people to ask questions and learn about how the Faith’s teachings relate to contemporary life. You can take part in one of these discussions either online or in real life.

To find a fireside near you call 800-22-UNITE (800-228-6483) or email

Register for upcoming online firesides, hosted by Lea Iverson. Join her on Monday, Oct. 21, Nov. 4, and Nov. 18, at 8:00 pm Eastern; 7:00 pm Central; 5:00 pm Pacific. 

Connect anytime
Do you have a particular question about the Baha'i Faith? Let us know if you'd like to talk with a Baha'i, request free literature, or find Baha'is near you.
Online book discussion

"The Dawn-Breakers" by Nabil
Thursdays at 8:00 pm CDT

The Dawn-Breakers, also called Nabil's Narrative, is the most comprehensive and authoritative eyewitness account of the beginnings of the Baha'i Era. This book offers a priceless resource for those wishing to better understand early Baha'i history, its connection to the Babi religion, and the implications of this history for today. 

FREE book  ONLINE
Purchase the book  HERE
Purchase audio book (of stories) HERE

Register   for this group. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with information about how to join the Zoom meetings.
Additional collection of stories:
Amazing Stories of the Dawn-Breakers  has been adapted for young people from Nabil's  The Dawn-Breakers . This book is divided into short chapters that give brief accounts of such figures as Shakh Ahmad, Siyyid Kazim, Mulla Husayn, Tahirih, Quddus, Vahid, Khadijih-Bagum, and others. Highlighting some key events in the tumult and victory of the early beginnings of the Faith, this book is good for young readers, or even as a tool for teaching children's classes.
National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United States
1233 Central Street, Evanston, IL 60201
enewsletter@bahai.us | www.bahai.us
800-22-UNITE (800-228-6483)