Observances

The Shrine of the Bab in Haifa, Israel. © Baha'i International Community Toronto, Ontario, 10 July 2014 (CBNS) — On July 9, members of the Baha’i Faith along with their friends and families commemorated the anniversary of the Martyrdom of the Bab. As one of the two founders of the Baha’i Faith, the events of the Bab’s life, whose name means “the Gate” in Arabic, are of special significance to Baha’is.

The Shrine of Baha'u'llah. © Laura Mostmand Toronto, Ontario, 26 May 2014 (CBNS) — On 29 May, Canadian Baha’i communities will mark the 122nd anniversary of the passing of Baha’u’llah, the Founder of the Baha’i Faith. “Baha’u’llah” is a title meaning “the Glory of God” in Arabic. Baha’is consider Baha’u’llah to be the latest in a line of Divine Messengers that includes Krishna, Buddha, Moses, Jesus, and Mohammed, Who have brought divine teachings for the spiritual education of humankind.

The Shrine of the Bab. © Baha'i International Community Toronto, Ontario, 20 May 2014 (CBNS) — On May 23rd, Baha’i communities across Canada and around the world will celebrate a Holy Day commemorating what Baha’is call “the Declaration of the Bab.”

Shrine of Baha'u'llah. © Baha'i International Community Toronto, Ontario, 14 April 2014 (CBNS) — On 21 April, Baha’is across Canada will celebrate the first day of the Festival of Ridvan — also known as “the King of Festivals” — the most important of the Baha’i holy days. Lasting for twelve days, the festival commemorates the public announcement by Baha’u’llah in 1863 that He was a Messenger of God. Baha’u’llah is the Prophet-Founder of the Baha’i Faith.

Dakhká Kwaán Dancers at Naw-Ruz celebration in Whitehorse, Yukon. © Tyrone Larkin Montréal, Quebec, 20 March 2014 (CBNS) — The first day of spring — 21 March — marks the beginning of the New Year for Baha’is all around the world. This occasion, also called Naw-Ruz, symbolizes the renewal brought by all the great religions throughout the ages.