Hundreds celebrate unity at Baha’i Temple Family Day and children’s service 

More than 100 children and their families flocked to the Sydney Baha’i House of Worship in July in celebration of unity.  

Held as part of the Northern Beaches Council Creative Open event, the Family Day was a showcase of the power of art, culture and music, bringing together people from all walks of life. 

Sydney Baha’i House of Worship temple director Roya Shahgholi said the event was created for families and children and featured interactive activities promoting cooperation, creativity, and self-expression. 

“At the music station, we explored rhythms and beats and enjoyed singing. The children also participated in cooperative games to learn about unity, teamwork, and mutual support. The wishing tree provided families with the opportunity to share messages of unity, hope, and love. Additionally, the event featured colourful and popular face painting for everyone to enjoy.”

The theme of unity was incorporated into every activity, encouraging participants to embrace their unique experiences while celebrating the common bonds tying everyone together.  

“The hope was for all participants to leave with a renewed sense of connection and a deeper understanding of the transformative power of art and culture,” Roya said. 

“This event served as a reminder of the power of arts and music in bringing people together.” 

Two temple services were also held on the day of the event, attracting over 400 attendees. 

“It was delightful to hear the sweet sounds of children’s voices reading at the service supported by their families at the special children’s service,” Roya said. 

“The children read and sang in the choir while their parents and community members looked on with joy, inspired by the young ones’ enthusiasm and dedication.” 

The two multi-faith services provided an opportunity to draw on the talents of the children and showcase the diversity of the community, bringing people together and nurturing the next generation of contributors to the betterment of society.  

Roya said the day was a powerful reminder that the future of our world rests in the hands of our children and that by nurturing their spiritual growth, we can create a more harmonious world. 

Creative Open was a four-day winter arts event held between July 25 and 28 featuring live music, exhibitions, talks, and gatherings at venues across the Northern Beaches. The Family Day and temple services at the Baha’i House of Worship were held on the final day. 

Roya said the events strengthened the Baha’i community’s relationship with Northern Beaches Council, providing opportunities for collaboration in the future. 

“Our hope and vision is that the House of Worship, through its devotional services, hosting different activities and drawing various populations, be able to learn more about how ‘Abdu’l-Bahá describes the House of Worship as “a center wherein the spirits are gladdened and the hearts attracted to the Abhá Kingdom”¹ and avers that it has “a powerful influence on every phase of life”, awakening the friends and promoting the oneness of humankind.”¹ 

Watch the video to get a glimpse of the festivities here: 

1. Institution of Mashriqu’l-Adhkar, Statement Prepared by the Research Department of the Universal House of Justice, September 2017[↩][↩]