Participation of Families
"Ye are the fruits of one tree, and the leaves of one branch. Deal ye one with another with the utmost love and harmony, with friendliness and fellowship."
Bahá'í Writings
Each of us is a member of a family, and at the same time we are all members of a community. We are convinced that, at its core, the progress of one is inseparable from the progress of the other. While parents are the primary ones responsible for the full development of their own children, they also share a common responsibility with every member of the community for the well-being of all the young people in a neighborhood or village.
The Chelsea Bahá’í Institute promotes spaces for ongoing conversation among families committed to contributing to the progress of civilization. As more families take part, processes emerge that advance both spiritual and material aspirations within their neighborhoods. Men and women, young and old alike, come to recognize that they hold the power to reshape the world around them. As increasing numbers embrace the vision of individual and collective transformation fostered by the Institute’s courses, the community steadily develops the capacity to reflect a pattern of life centered on service and worship.
Devocionales
The spirit of fellowship and harmony that unites us is strengthened through acts of worship. Devotional gatherings are spaces for prayer and collective worship in which everyone is welcome to participate. In an atmosphere of peace and tranquility, sacred writings from any faith are shared, along with prayers and uplifting songs. Devotionals can be held in many settings—a home, park, beach, or public space. What matters most is creating an elevated and harmonious atmosphere where all—children, youth, and adults—are invited to take part. Devotional gatherings breathe spirit into the entire process of community building taking place around the world, nurturing a devotional character at both the individual and collective level.
Ongoing conversations among community members about the education of children
To acquire a vision that embraces the whole world, an individual must be raised from childhood in a home where the members are concerned not only with their own well-being, but also with the progress of their community, their nation—and indeed, of all humankind. By taking part in an ever-expanding conversation about the education of children, youth and adults develop a shared understanding of how to raise the next generation, weaving strong bonds of affection and solidarity within their village or neighborhood and strengthening its social fabric. These conversations often take place at devotional gatherings, in homes, at community meetings and festivals, at family camps, and in other locally organized activities.
Family Camps
Family camps provide a space where parents and children can grow together in an atmosphere of learning and unity. At these camps, families engage in activities that combine spiritual conversations, community service, recreation, and the strengthening of family bonds. They offer opportunities for families to advance together through the Institute’s courses, exploring the Bahá’í Writings and reflecting on how to apply them in daily life. These shared experiences not only enrich the spiritual life of the home but also strengthen communication, cooperation, and collective decision-making. In this way, families become protagonists in the transformation of their own environment, contributing to the well-being of their community with greater coherence and purpose.
