Sydney community retreat unpacks role of families in strengthening communities

A retreat held at the Yerrinbool Baha’i Centre of Learning in regional NSW has brought together households from the City of Sydney catchment in exploration of the impact families have on broader society. 

Held at the end of August, the camp provided a space for individuals to reconnect, reflect and strengthen their identity as a community.

One of the camp facilitators said the retreat offered a “welcome contrast to city life”. 

She said the 19 March 2025 message from the Universal House of Justice about family life allowed participants to explore the role families and homes played in building vibrant and inclusive communities.

“City life can be very hectic, and so we wanted to slow down, reflect and study something that we were passionate about,” she said.

The program included time for participants to study the Universal House of Justice message and present artistic reflections. Special sessions for youth, junior youth and children were also conducted, as well as a talent show, trivia night, and games. 

“We wanted to create a space where people can engage more with the Writings,” the facilitator said. “On the final day we also had a community devotional where every household offered prayers.” 

“It was really about strengthening bonds of friendship, organised with the hope that we could solidify our understanding of the role we each play in leading communities towards social transformation.”