The Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Okotoks

The Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Okotoks is a Canadian nonprofit organization representing the local Bahá'í community in Okotoks, Alberta. It operates under the governance framework typical of Bahá'í institutions worldwide, serving as the elected administrative body that guides and supports the activities of Bahá'ís in the area.

History and Establishment

The local Bahá'í community in Okotoks was largely established by Ken and Maureen Hadden, two residents originally from Calgary. They played a significant role in fostering the Faith in Okotoks, including contributing to cooperative housing projects to support community living. The Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Okotoks was officially formed on November 12, 1982, marking the formal organization of the community's administrative and spiritual affairs[1].

Community Activities and Impact

The Assembly coordinates the community’s participation in various educational and social initiatives inspired by Bahá'í principles. A notable example includes raising awareness about the persecution of Bahá'ís in other parts of the world, such as Iran. The Okotoks Bahá'í community has hosted events like documentary screenings to highlight these issues, emphasizing the importance of education and the struggle of Bahá'ís abroad to gain access to higher education under oppressive conditions[3].

Role within the Wider Bahá'í Faith in Canada

As part of the larger Bahá'í community in Canada, which dates back to 1898 and numbers over 35,000 members across more than 1,000 localities, the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Okotoks contributes to the national and global Bahá'í efforts. These efforts include promoting unity, social justice, and the application of Bahá'í teachings to community life. The community mirrors Canada’s diverse cultural and ethnic landscape, reflecting the inclusive ethos of the Faith[1][4].

Governance and Structure

The Spiritual Assembly operates as a nonprofit under Canadian law and is registered with the business number 872849898RR0001. It functions according to the administrative order outlined by Bahá'í scriptures and practice, focusing on fostering spiritual growth, community building, and service to society.

This Assembly exemplifies the localized expression of the Bahá'í Faith’s principles and governance, playing a vital role in both the spiritual and social dimensions of community life in Okotoks.