Frequently Asked Questions
Upon learning that I am a Baha'i, many people have questions. This is a list of some the most common questions that are asked?
Does the Bahá'í Faith have an official website?
Yes. In addition to many different site that are oprerated by local and national spiritual assemblies, the International House of Justice operates a worldwide site. It can be found at www.bahai.org and is available in many different languages. That site contains a page where you can find the national websites for the Baha'i presence in many different countries around the world. From those sites, you can usually find the website for a local group (if it exists) in your area.
Do Baha'is have a church, synagogue or mosque?
Not exactly. Most gatherings of Baha'is take place in the home of one the believers. This is a much more intimate environemnt and aids in personal relationships among the followers. Many larger cities may have a local Center (sometimes called a House of Worship depending on the country). There are also large Temples located on each continent.
What goes on at the Baha'i center?
These buildings are occasionally used to host events becuase they are conveniently located, but are primarily to house administrtive offices and other related programs. For example, the Baha'i Center in New York City is located on East 11th St. between Broadway and University Place, in Greenwich Village, just below Union Square and in the neighborhood of New York University. This bilding, in addition to housing the offices of the Local Spritual Assembly of New York City, is a regular meeting place for the 19-Day Feast, Ruhi classes, and a Sunday morning devotional. Occasionally, special events such as talks from a reigonal counselor and other meetings will take place at the Center. The beuilding also contains a stage where musical concerts and productions by the Children's Theatre Company take place.