‘Absolutely special’: delegates spiritually prepare at Temple before its closure for restoration

Delegates representing communities across Australia – from rural settings through to urban centres – have arrived at the Sydney Baha’i House of Worship for the Spiritual Preparation Day in the lead up to the 2026 National Baha’i Convention. 

The Spiritual Preparation Day provides the opportunity for delegates to prepare for the sacred task of electing the national governing body of the Baha’i Faith, the National Spiritual Assembly, at the Convention.

According to one delegate, this year’s Spiritual Preparation Day was unique because it coincided with the final day the Sydney Baha’i House of Worship was open to the public before it closed for restorations. 

He said the evening service, organised for delegates, was particularly special. The Temple also stayed open until midnight for all those wishing to offer prayers before the edifice closes temporarily. 

“It’s been absolutely special being in this space knowing it’s not going to be able to be visited for some time,” he said. “I was trying to keep the image of the Temple in its current form in my mind to compare for the future.” 

He said having the Temple space to reflect and meditate helped him focus his thoughts on what it meant to walk this path of service.

One first-time delegate said it was important to understand the responsibilities and duties of the delegates.

“Our role as delegates to be well-informed and to understand further the qualities of the elector and the elected was explored in these sessions, and this was especially valuable for a first-time delegate such as myself,” she said. 

“It is so special to be able to play a role in the election of our national governing body.” 

She said it was also valuable to get to know other delegates from across the country in the lead up to the election. 

Another delegate mentioned that the day was an opportunity to learn “more about my scared duty as a delegate”.  

“It was wonderful meeting other delegates, some of whom I’ve met many years ago and meeting new ones,” she said.

“Praying at the Temple was also amazing and seeking divine assistance to make sure we comply with our sacred duty [electing the National Spiritual Assembly].

The National Convention brings together delegates from across Australia to elect the members who will serve on the national institution for the upcoming year as well as to consult on community affairs and make recommendations and suggestions to the National Spiritual Assembly. 

Each delegate is elected by his or her respective district – known as a unit area – through secret ballot. The Baha’i election process is free from nomination and campaigning, with each individual free to choose individuals to serve in various capacities after careful prayer, reflection and contemplation. 

The Spiritual Preparation Day also provides delegates with personal time for prayer and reflection in the Temple and the opportunity to deepen on select words from the institutions of the Faith which help to inform their consultations. 

Convention consultations offer profound insights into the breadth of community-building developments and learning occurring at the neighbourhood level across Australia.