Centenary of the passing of Abdu’l-Baha
Abdu’l-Baha — the eldest son of Baha’u’llah — was known for being a champion of social justice, an advocate of racial harmony and equality, an ambassador of peace, the personification of humanitarianism, and possessing outstanding qualities of character. At Baha’u’llah’s written instruction, the growing global Baha’i community was to turn to Abdu’l-Baha for guidance.
28 November 2021 will mark 100 years since the passing of Abdu’l-Baha. Baha’i communities around the world, including Australia, are commemorating this special year to honour His life and distinct and unique position in religious history. Individuals, families, neighbourhoods and communities are undertaking service projects and initiatives in His name and creating various artistic expressions depicting His generosity, love for humanity, sense of humour and courage, and the fruits of His labours. Visit the website on Abdu’l-Baha that shares some of His Writings, who He was and these expressions and initiatives.
The Centenary of Abdu’l-Baha around Australia
The Centenary of Abdu’l-Baha was commemorated by thousands of Baha’is and their friends around Australia. In the weeks and months leading up to this date, on the date itself, and in the days following, hundreds of gatherings took place in cities, suburbs, towns villages and neighbourhoods throughout the country. People from all backgrounds and cultures gathered in both formal and informal settings, in town halls and homes, in meeting rooms and parks, to commemorate this significant moment in the history of the Baha’i Faith. These meetings were attended by members of government and their representatives, representatives of various faith and community groups, as well as neighbours and friends of all ages. In these gatherings, friends undertook service projects and initiatives, as well as various artistic endeavours reflecting Abdu’l-Baha qualities.
See more artistic expressions, initiatives and commemorations at the website on Abdu’l-Baha.
The Centenary of Abdu’l-Baha at the House of Worship
The Baha’i House of Worship in Sydney was one of the first sites to officially commemorate the Centenary of Abdu’l-Baha on the 27th of November 2021. A service was held on the night of the commemoration, which saw the House of Worship emblazoned with lights and its pathway framed in candlelight. Prayers and passages from the Baha’i Writings were read and chanted during the commemoration which was complimented by singing from the Temple choir.
This night service was followed by a two-day program held throughout that weekend. It featured multiple services hosted by different groups, including a special program for children and junior youth where they shared stories about the life of Abdu’l-Baha. These special services were complemented by other activities on the temple grounds. Panel discussions on the theme of service, as exemplified by the life of Abdu’l-Baha, were held throughout the two days. Activities for children and junior youth, as well as live musical and artistic performances took place as various times throughout the weekend. A special screening of the newly released video about Abdu’l-Baha’s life, “The Exemplar” took place at the visitors’ information centre, alongside talks and presentations about aspects of Abdu’l-Baha’s life and teachings.
