Finding Hope Together
Gathering for Reflection and Inspiration
Prayer is integral to Bahá’í life. This includes gatherings in which Bahá’ís and their friends gather together to share prayers, readings, poems or other devotions from their own traditions, discuss their meaning and the impact they have, and awaken spiritual susceptibilities within the participants. These gatherings build and deepen authentic friendships and lead to a pattern of community life that is infused with the spirit of devotion and service to humanity. We would love for you to be part of these and contribute to them.
Conversations on Spiritual Transformation
In Alexandria, and in communities worldwide, we're creating warm and welcoming spaces for personal growth and connection. Join us for 'Conversations on Spiritual Transformation,' where we explore how to cultivate inner strength and build stronger, more harmonious communities. In these gatherings, we draw inspiration from the Baha'i Writings, reflecting on their insights into spiritual growth and community building. These aren't about formal study in a traditional sense; they're opportunities to share insights, reflect on meaningful questions, and discover practical ways to contribute to positive change around us. Together, we'll explore how to foster open communication, support the growth of young people, and engage in social action that empowers everyone. Come as you are, and contribute your unique perspective in a safe and loving environment. We'd love for you to be a part of these enriching conversations, where we learn together from the Baha'i Writings and apply those teachings to our lives and communities.
Children’s and Parents’ Classes
In a world where the joy and innocence of childhood can be so easily overwhelmed by the aggressive pursuit of materialistic ends, the moral and spiritual education of children assumes vital importance. Our children’s classes focus on the acquisition of spiritual qualities—for example, truthfulness, generosity, purity of heart, and kindness, to name a few—which are considered attributes of God that are reflected in the mirror of the human heart. The goal is for the children to reach a stage in which they can understand and act upon the imperative to tend to their own spiritual development and contribute to the well-being of society. We combine these with parent’s classes, so that every family member may receive spiritual nourishment and cultivate their best self. Call us to see if our classes may be right for your children and family.
Junior Youth Empowerment Program
Young people between the ages of 12 and 15 are in a crucial period of life as their consciousness is expanding and, day by day, they are becoming increasingly exposed to challenging forces of society. Participants in Alexandria’s junior youth empowerment program gather in a supportive environment with the guidance of trained guides (whom we call “animators”) to discuss their challenges and ideas, to form a strong moral identity, and to learn how to make decisive contributions to the advancement of spiritual and material civilization. Among the topics they cover are developing language skills and the power of expression, investigating physical, social and spiritual reality in a scientific manner, and dealing with issues with which adolescents often struggle, such as free will and predestination, the complex relationship between will and knowledge, and promoting justice. Call us to see if our classes may be right for you.
Social Action
We work shoulder to shoulder with diverse groups to contribute to the advancement of material and spiritual civilization. For example, Alexandria Bahá’ís have a long history of anti-racism efforts in the City, including the creation of “Meaningful Conversations about Racism – and what to do about it” at the Black History Museum, which explored white supremacy and racial terrorism; stereotypes and micro-aggressions; experiences in Alexandria; and how to talk to children about race. Reflections from the 2023-24 season are here. We were also among the founding congregations and have supported ALIVE for over 50 years. And much more.
Meaningful Conversations about Racism – and What To Do About It
Each month, we host respectful, honest, and meaningful conversations that explore and celebrate the diversity of cultures and peoples in our area, confront the attitudes and behaviors that still divide us, and seek remedies grounded in the recognition that we are one interconnected, interdependent human family. The 2024-25 series will focus on how exemplary local non-profits are working to improve and uplift our community and how their work relates to key principles for promoting racial and social justice and empowering all people to flourish and to act as protagonists in uplifting our community. All sessions are at Alexandria’s Black History Museum, 902 Wythe St., Alexandria, VA.
Thursday, October 17, 2024, 7-9 PM: Children & Youth
Thursday, November 21, 2024, 7-9 PM: Protecting African American History
Thursday, January 16, 2025, 7-9 PM: Refugees and Immigrants
Thursday, February 20, 2025, 7-9 PM: Safety and Self-Actualization
Thursday, March 20, 2025, 7-9 PM: Loving Our Neighbors
Thursday, April 17, 2025, 7-9 PM: Building Your Own Network
Sponsored by the Alexandria Bahá’í Community, the Alexandria Black History Museum, and the Alexandria Community Remembrance Project.
A Baha'i Perspective on Navigating Uncertain Times
Join us for an interactive panel discussion creating space for a rich exchange of ideas and personal reflections. Our panelists will explore the Baha'i vision for humanity's future, focusing on the Oneness of Humanity, Independent Investigation of Reality, and Trustworthiness and Truthfulness. Discover and share teachings that illuminate the path forward. We look forward to connecting with you.
May 17, 2025
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Doors open with breakfast at 9:30 a.m
Lunch offered after the program.
Alexandria Baha’i Center
5400 Eisenhower Ave, Alexandria VA 22304
Free parking on site or at Van Dorn Metro Station
Free Shuttle service from Van Dorn Metro Station.
