Derry Baha’is Mark Birth of Baha’u’llah with Annual Celebration

On October 18, 2023, members of the Bahá’í community in Derry gathered at the Verbal Arts Centre to celebrate the birth of their founder, Baha’u’llah, along with His Forerunner, the Báb. This annual event drew locals and visitors alike, marking a significant moment in the Bahá’í calendar.

The celebration included various activities designed to honor the teachings and contributions of Baha’u’llah, who established the Bahá’í Faith in the 19th century. Attendees engaged in prayers, readings from Bahá’í texts, and reflections on the principles of unity and peace that Baha’u’llah advocated.

Community Engagement and Reflection

Participants expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to come together in a spirit of fellowship. The event featured community members sharing personal stories about how the teachings of Baha’u’llah have impacted their lives. This emphasis on personal connection and community support underscores the core values of the Bahá’í Faith, which promotes harmony among diverse populations.

According to local Bahá’í leader, Sarah McCarthy, the gathering serves as a reminder of the importance of Baha’u’llah’s message in today’s world. “His teachings encourage us to build bridges between communities and foster understanding,” McCarthy noted during her address at the event.

The celebration also included musical performances that highlighted the cultural aspects of the Bahá’í Faith. Local artists contributed traditional and contemporary pieces, creating an atmosphere of joy and reflection.

A Global Reflection

The birth of Baha’u’llah is celebrated worldwide by Bahá’is, reflecting a global commitment to His teachings. This year’s celebrations were particularly poignant, as they coincide with ongoing initiatives aimed at promoting peace and unity across communities. Baha’is around the globe emphasize the relevance of Baha’u’llah’s principles in addressing contemporary issues, such as climate change and social justice.

The Derry event concluded with a communal feast, symbolizing unity and the sharing of blessings. Participants left with a renewed sense of purpose, inspired by the teachings of Baha’u’llah and the spirit of community that the celebration fostered.

As the Bahá’í community in Derry continues to grow, events like this serve as a vital link between history and the present, reinforcing the significance of Baha’u’llah’s legacy in promoting a more harmonious world.