Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Vancouver

The Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Vancouver is a nonprofit organization that serves as the governing body for the Bahá'í community in Vancouver. Registered as a Canadian nonprofit organization, it operates under the Business Registration Number 123529810RR0001.

Overview

This organization is inspired by the teachings of Bahá'u'lláh, the Founder of the Bahá'í Faith, which emphasizes the unity of humanity and the importance of love, fellowship, and service. The community engages in various activities aimed at fostering spiritual growth and building vibrant, inclusive communities.

Activities

The Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Vancouver focuses on several key areas:

• Spiritual Gatherings: The community regularly holds devotional gatherings, which include prayers and discussions designed to promote spiritual development. Additionally, they observe Bahá'í holidays and participate in community events.

• Development of Children and Youth: A significant emphasis is placed on nurturing the spiritual, moral, and intellectual growth of young individuals. This is achieved through educational programs and youth development initiatives that encourage community service and individual growth.

• Community Building: Efforts are made to create environments that foster true friendships and mutual support among community members. This involves building capacities for service and engaging in activities that promote unity and cooperation.

History

The Bahá'í presence in Vancouver dates back to the early 20th century. The first Local Spiritual Assembly was formed in January 1927, marking a significant milestone for the Bahá'í community in Canada. This assembly was the second of its kind in Canada and played an early role in the national development of the Bahá'í Faith in the country.

Over the years, the community has grown through various outreach and educational programs. In the early decades, growth was occasionally challenged by societal factors, but the community continued to flourish, adopting more visible forms of outreach, such as radio broadcasts, starting in the late 1930s.

Recognition and Celebrations

In recent years, the Vancouver community has been recognized for its contributions. For instance, in 2017, Vancouver's Mayor Gregor Robertson proclaimed October 22 as the Bicentenary of the Birth of Bahá'u'lláh, highlighting the faith's growing presence and influence in the city. This recognition included lighting City Hall green in celebration.

The Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Vancouver continues to play a vital role in nurturing spiritual growth and fostering a sense of global unity within the community.