Acceptance of Bahá’u’lláh’s teachings implies a commitment
on the part of the individual to strive for one’s own spiritual development, to
participate in the construction of a vibrant community, and to contribute to
the common good. The collective undertakings of the Bahá’í community include
the management of affairs related to personal status; the conduct of the Nineteen
Day Feast and other Bahá’í gatherings; the education of children, youth and
adults in spiritual and social matters, as well as in the arts and sciences;
and the creation of an environment among its members that encourages mutual
support in the pursuit of such activities and in service to the wider society.
Freedom to acquire knowledge of the arts and sciences and to act on one’s beliefs
within the parameters of obedience to civil law, the dictates of wisdom, and
respect for prevailing social conditions is the prerogative of every human
being.
(The Universal House of Justice, from a message dated 26 March 2009 to
the Baha’is of Iran)
