THE BAHÁ'ÍS OF CASTLEREAGH

WHO WE ARE

"Who are we?"

"We are the Bahá'í Community of Castlereagh, Northern Ireland. We draw our members from all strata of society and religious backgrounds, finding unity in the Bahá'í Faith, the second most widespread religious community in the world. Our Faith gives meaning and direction to our lives both individually and collectively, answering such age old questions as who we are, where did we come from, and where are we headed. It gives great hope for the future at a time when major uncertainties challenge world peace and security."

The Bahá'ís of Castlereagh see themselves as a part both of their area and also of something far greater. They are part of the world-wide community of the Bahá'ís and people for whom the essential oneness of the human race is a key belief.

The first local person to become a Bahá'í was Colin King on 1 January 1959. In September 1960 his father Harry King also became a Bahá'í. The family moved to Belfast in 1961 and it was there in August 1962 that Harry’s wife Jean accepted the Faith.

The first Spiritual Assembly, the local Bahá'í administrative institution, for the area was formed on 21 April 1968. As the Bahá'í Faith has no clergy, or individuals in positions of personal leadership, all members participate in its activities and have their say. Community life includes spiritual and devotional meetings, open discussions, courses of study on spiritual and moral themes, and activities for children and junior youth.

Local Bahá'ís are involved with organisations of social benefit in the community, Several have gone on to international service in places such as India, Sardinia, Suriname, Jamaica, Russia, and even as far afield as St. Helena.

If you want to know more, or think you would like to be involved, please get in touch.