"Let your heart be filled with the joy of serving others, for in the service of humanity lies the true essence of our existence."

The Bahá'í Faith fosters an environment where personal and collective growth can thrive, rooted in the principle of unity necessary for meaningful transformation. Its teachings encourage the elimination of prejudice and the promotion of equality across various dimensions such as race, gender, and socio-economic status. Community service stands at the forefront of Bahá'í life, with an emphasis on active participation in social justice initiatives. Engaging in these efforts is viewed as a vital journey toward the betterment of society.

Bahá'ís are called to recognize and fulfill their responsibilities to humanity, celebrating the diversity that enriches our world and taking decisive actions aimed at advancing civilization. Since its establishment in 1898, the Bahá’i Community of Oak Park has played an important role in fostering the Faith's growth within Chicago, advocating for love, harmony, and service among all.

We welcome individuals from all backgrounds to join us on this path toward unity and understanding. Together, we can work to uplift lives, grounded in the principles of justice and equality that the Bahá'i Faith upholds.

““Be as a lamp unto those who walk in darkness, a joy for the sorrowful, a sea for the thirsty.”
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— Embracing these ideals enhances our lives and builds a caring community. beyond our circles. Every small effort illuminates the paths of those in need and comforts the troubled. Let us be sources of light and solace, recognizing the profound impact of our interactions. By nurturing mutual aid and understanding, we unite despite differences. Together, our actions embody the essence of hope and joy for all.

Baha’i Faith Community Center, Oak Park IL

WHO WE ARE

Baha’is recognize that our commitment to serve humanity is a collective effort that encompasses various actions and attitudinal shifts. By engaging with the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh, individuals can refine their inner lives, contributing to the greater good while fostering a spirit of humility and understanding within the community.

This community is characterized by a commitment to learning and action, emphasizing the importance of collaboration over competition. Each member is encouraged to contribute to an atmosphere of respect and shared purpose, moving away from any notions of superiority or exclusivity.

Hope for the future of humanity is at the heart of Baha’i principles. This hope drives us to take purposeful actions that promote unity and alleviate suffering. We celebrate not only our own efforts but also the initiatives of all those across the world striving for the betterment of society. By working together, we can create a more compassionate and unified world, reflecting the core values that Bahá’u’lláh instilled in us.

WHAT BAHÁ’ÍS BELIEVE

Bahá'u'lláh is the founder of the Bahá'í Faith, a religion that emerged in the 19th century in Persia (modern-day Iran). Born in 1817, he is regarded by Bahá'ís as the Manifestation of God, which includes figures such as Moses, Jesus, Muhammad, and the Bab, who preceded him.

Bahá'u'lláh's teachings emphasize the unity of all people and religions, advocating for principles such as equality, justice, and world peace. He articulated the belief that humanity is one family and that the time has come for the establishment of a global society based on harmony and cooperation among diverse cultures and faiths. His writings form the foundation of Bahá'í belief, guiding followers in their spiritual lives and humanitarian efforts. Despite facing persecution during his life, Bahá'u'lláh’s influence has grown, fostering a worldwide community dedicated to his vision of a united humanity.

Unity of Humanity: The belief that all people are part of one human family, emphasizing the importance of eliminating prejudices and fostering understanding among diverse cultures and backgrounds.

  • Elimination of Extremes of Wealth and Poverty: The principle that advocates for the reduction of economic disparities, encouraging the establishment of systems that ensure equitable distribution of resources.

  • Independent Investigation of Truth: The encouragement for individuals to seek knowledge and truth for themselves, free from blind allegiance, which fosters personal growth and informed decision-making.

  • Gender Equality: The recognition of the equal rights of men and women, promoting their collaboration as essential for the progress of society.

  • Harmony of Science and Religion: The belief that science and religion should be seen as complementary rather than conflicting, working together to deepen our understanding of the world and our place within it.

  • Universal Education: The commitment to ensuring that education is accessible to all, which is seen as vital for both personal development and societal progress.

  • Consultation: The practice of collective decision-making through consultation, which emphasizes respectful dialogue and the sharing of diverse viewpoints to reach consensus.

  • Spiritual Development: The focus on nurturing spiritual qualities such as love, compassion, and justice, which contribute to individual character and the betterment of society.

Each of these principles serves as a foundation for the efforts toward establishing lasting peace and harmony within the global community.