Devotional Gatherings
In homes across the neighbourhood, people of every faith come together to pray, read from the sacred writings of the world, and renew the spirit of their community. Everyone is welcome.
What is a devotional gathering?
A devotional gathering is a simple meeting where neighbours come together to pray and read passages from the sacred writings of the world’s religions. There is no ritual, no sermon and no collection — just shared prayer, quiet reflection and often music, in a home or another welcoming space.
Prayer is at the heart of the Bahá’í life, and it is something we share with people of every faith. When people of different backgrounds pray side by side, bonds of friendship grow and the spirit of the neighbourhood is renewed.
What happens at a gathering?
A gathering usually lasts about an hour. Someone opens with a prayer, and those present take turns reading passages they have brought — from the Bahá’í writings, the Bible, the Qur’an, the Bhagavad Gita, the words of the Buddha, or any source that lifts the heart. There may be music, a moment of silence, and time afterwards to talk over tea.
You are welcome to read, to pray, or simply to listen. Children are welcome too — many gatherings include a short prayer or song that the youngest ones help with.
Who can come?
Everyone. Devotional gatherings are open to people of every faith or none, and there is no cost and nothing to join. They are offered by the local Bahá’í community as a contribution to the spiritual life of the neighbourhood.
Hosting a gathering of your own
Hosting is simple: choose a time, invite a few neighbours or friends, and open with prayers and readings that are meaningful to you. We can help you get started with a small collection of prayers and passages, and someone from the community is happy to accompany you the first few times.
Come pray with us
If you would like to find a devotional gathering near you — or begin one in your own home — get in touch through the contact details on this site and we will gladly help.
Devotional Gathering FAQs
Common questions from neighbours thinking of attending or hosting a gathering.
- What is a devotional gathering?
- A devotional gathering is a simple meeting where neighbours come together to pray and read passages from the sacred writings of the world's religions. There is no ritual, no sermon and no collection — just shared prayer, quiet reflection and often music, in a home or another welcoming space.
- Do I have to be Bahá'í to attend?
- No. Devotional gatherings are open to everyone, of every faith or none. Readings are drawn from many religious traditions, and you are welcome simply to listen if you prefer not to read or pray aloud.
- Is there any cost or obligation?
- None. Gatherings are offered freely by the local Bahá'í community as a contribution to the spiritual life of the neighbourhood. There is nothing to join and nothing to pay.
- Where and how often do gatherings take place?
- Most gatherings are held in people's homes, and some meet in community rooms or outdoors. Many meet weekly or every two weeks, usually for about an hour, at a time that suits the neighbours who come.
- How can I host a devotional gathering in my own home?
- Hosting is simple: choose a time, invite a few neighbours or friends, and open with a few prayers and readings that are meaningful to you. We can help you get started with a small collection of prayers and passages, and someone from the community is happy to accompany you the first few times.
- How do I find a devotional gathering near me?
- Get in touch through the contact details on this site and we will connect you with a gathering in your area — or help you begin one of your own with a few friends.
Primary sources for the Baha'i writings quoted on this site are published in the Baha'i Reference Library.