Members of the Bahá’ís Children's Class of Fairfax sing songs. Photo by Steve Hibbard.
About 200 members of the Bahá’ís of Fairfax celebrated the 200th anniversary of the birth of Bahá’u’lláh, the founder of the Bahá’í faith, on Sunday, Oct. 22, 2017, at the Hub Ballroom at George Mason University. Bahá’ís believe in treating people with loving kindness and in the oneness of God, oneness of religion, and oneness of humanity. Currently, there are about 200 local members in the three regions that make up the Fairfax branch — Fairfax Southwest, Fairfax West, and the City of Fairfax. Worldwide, there are 6 million Bahá’ís in more than 200 countries.
"Tonight's event is the 200th anniversary of the birth of Bahá’u’lláh, who is the prophet founder of the Bahá’í faith. And today is celebrated by Bahá’ís all over the world; this is a very special day for all of us," said Mistress of Ceremonies Nuril Kingsley of Annandale. "One of the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh is love and unity. And this is a way for us to say we are here with you and we would like to work with everyone to build a community for the betterment of the world."
Added Shekufeh Hudson, "Bahá’ís have chosen to celebrate in any way they want; they're having picnics in a park, they're having tree plantations, and they're doing service projects. And we just chose to have an event at George Mason University."
Hudson said local Bahá’ís meet every 19 days in people's homes in Fairfax for services, social gatherings, and devotionals. Their Junior Youth Group of 11- to 15-year-olds are involved in community service by helping the homeless, with food banks, and street cleanups.
The evening included prayers and devotions in English, Spanish, and Farsi; musical performances by the Bahá’ís Children's Class, a cello player, and two piano players. Afterwards, there was the showing of the film, "Light to the World," about Bahá’u’lláh's life. Guests then dined on a catered Iranian dinner, which included kebobs, rice, stew, and salad.
Bahá’u’lláh (1817-1892) was a spiritual teacher who announced in 1863 that he was the bearer of a new revelation from God. Bahá’ís regard Bahá’u’lláh’s vision of the oneness of humanity as an antidote to racial prejudice, violence and materialism.
On Tuesday, Oct. 24, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors presented the Baha'is with a recognition for their work and service to the community. The celebration of the birth of Baha'u'llah was also mentioned.