Unity in diversity at festive Baha'i celebration

In a display of multiculturalism and music, the Baha’i Festival of Ridvan was celebrated recently at the Baha’i Centre in Spreydon. 

The festival commemorated the period when the faith’s founder, Baha’u’llah, announced his mission to his followers 160 years ago in the Garden of Ridvan, beside the Tigris River in Baghdad.  

The event marked the birth of the Baha’i faith, a religion that has spread throughout the world. 

"It is universal, and it appeals to people from all backgrounds and cultures and so there are Baha'is all around the world, as you will have seen from the celebration today. It's a pretty diverse group of people” said Jenny Hindin Miller, a member of the faith.

To celebrate the 12-day festival in Christchurch, musicians and guest performers have been entertaining members of the local Baha’i community and friends.

“Above all, it's a time for getting together, enjoying our company, and celebrating this beautiful occasion", said Bahai' faith member Sam Whitley.
 

Members say the Baha’i faith’s teachings are all about the unity of humankind, and how to achieve it.  

Its principles include the elimination of all forms of prejudice, including race, gender and belief, and promotes the equality of men and women.

- John Spurdle, Public Interest Journalism Fund