Delegates from across the United States gather for the 110th Annual Baha’i National Convention

Delegates to the 110th U.S. Baha’i National Convention are convening today at the Baha’i House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois, for four days of convention proceedings from Thursday through Sunday, May 24-27.

The 171 National Convention delegates, elected last October in electoral units across the United States, will take up two principal tasks:

• Prayerfully elect the nine members of the National Spiritual Assembly who will guide the affairs of the Baha’i Faith in this country over the coming year.
• Consult on the progress of the Baha’i Faith in the United States and offer suggestions and recommendations to the incoming National Assembly.

The Baha’i National Convention is taking place only weeks after the Universal House of Justice was elected during the Twelfth International Baha’i Convention at the Baha’i World Center in Haifa, Israel.

Here, in brief, is the agenda of the Baha’i National Convention.

THURSDAY

The day will start with a deepening for delegates, conducted by members of the Continental Board of Counselors, on the purposes of National Convention and delegates’ role in it, followed by a devotional program.

Once in Foundation Hall in the Temple’s lower level, delegates will be seated and proceed to address the organization of Convention. They will elect Convention officers, approve the agenda and adopt procedures for consultation.

Reading of the 2018 Riḍván message of the Universal House of Justice will be followed by thoughts of the Counselors present on the message and delegate consultation on topics related to it. That evening a newly released film will be viewed. A Widening Embrace captures insights and experiences of Baha’is and friends worldwide in their efforts to contribute to the well-being of their communities and the advancement of society.

FRIDAY

Presentations by the National Assembly’s secretary and treasurer expanding on key points in that body’s Annual Report will be followed by questions from delegates.

That afternoon, delegates will consult on topics relating to the growth and development of a vibrant pattern of Baha’i community life at the local level, including “Movement along the Continuum of Development” and “Strengthening the Training Institute.”

SATURDAY

Solemn balloting for the National Assembly will be overseen by the Counselors and observed by Convention visitors.

Consultation will continue, with “Enhancing Institutional Capacity” as the scheduled topic. The Convention photograph will be taken outside the Temple or, if the weather is inclement, inside Foundation Hall.

SUNDAY

Consultation will continue, with “Involvement in the Life of Society” on the agenda as one topic. To conclude Convention, the Counselors will offer final remarks.

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