Launch of Bahá’í Training Centre
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Dearly loved Friends,
On 5 December 2019, the National Spiritual Assembly announced that it had taken possession of a property at Arncott, near Bicester in Oxfordshire to become the Bahá’í Training Centre – the first of its kind in the United Kingdom.
It gives the National Assembly much joy to share the news that, over the recent holiday period, the first intensive training event took place at the Centre. Preparing the premises for this first event in such a short period of time was truly a monumental task. It involved the sacrificial efforts of numerous volunteers from the hosting Thames Valley cluster and across the country, all of whom gave of their time with love. The venue was truly transformed; an elevated and joyful atmosphere pervaded the whole event and many commented on how, from the first moment, the Training Centre felt like a dedicated Bahá’í space. Some fifteen study circles took place, involving more than 50 participants, including tutors. A parallel junior youth camp also happened, hosting some 17 persons from the focus neighbourhood of Woodberry in Hackney. The photographs shared here give a glimpse of the spirit of the event and the warmth of the environment.
What is most heartening to realise is how the opening of this Centre marks a milestone in our community’s efforts to strengthen the institute process, “so that a sizeable number of friends proceed through the main sequence of courses.” Now we must learn how to use this gift from Bahá’u’lláh to greatest effect, a conversation that is already taking place among the institutions of the Faith and the surrounding community.
The National Assembly is hopeful that this promising start will lead to the training and education of thousands of individuals, who will contribute to the spiritual and social well-being of their communities.
With loving greetings,
Patrick O’Mara,
Secretary
