Free Event | The Oneness of Humanity

8720 North Ivanhoe Street,Portland OR 97203

07 May, 2023

Description

The Baháʼí Faith is a religion founded in the 19th century that teaches the essential worth of all religions and the unity of all people. But how is it that we seem more divided now than ever? A study of history could rightfully conclude that humans have always been in conflict with other humans and split into seemingly irreconcilable groups. Are the divisions and conflicts found today and throughout history a proof that humanity is not one family? Or is the reality that humanity is one family (as confirmed by scientific discovery) a proof that acting and living in conflict, although a common practice, is actually going against our nature? Could the facts of history and the events of today show that humanity is on a continuous path toward higher and higher levels of unity and cooperation, a path that is now culminating in the enormous challenge of uniting as a global society with liberty and justice for all? 150 years ago, Baha’u’llah, the founder of the Baha’i Faith, wrote, “The earth is but one country and mankind its citizens”. What does practical action on this simple statement of fact look like, and how could it result in the benefit of all? Is this something of importance to attempt to make progress on in our lifetimes? And how does one go about that attempt? We won’t be able to answer all of these questions in one gathering, but are looking forward to giving it a try! What to Expect? After a brief introduction, we will examine a short selection of readings from the Bahá’í Writings as a jumping off point for what is sure to be a lively discussion. Please join us with your questions, thoughts, and a desire to connect with others who want to explore the various dimensions of human purpose, progress and prosperity. “The best beloved of all things in My sight is Justice; turn not away therefrom if thou desirest Me, and neglect it not that I may confide in thee. By its aid thou shalt see with thine own eyes and not through the eyes of others, and shalt know of thine own knowledge and not through the knowledge of thy neighbor. Ponder this in thy heart; how it behooveth thee to be. Verily justice is My gift to thee and the sign of My loving-kindness. Set it then before thine eyes.” - The Bahá’í Writings *** This event is free and open to all regardless of background or belief. Donations will not be accepted