As organizations struggle to adapt to ever-changing conditions in an era of relentless change, social turmoil and economic uncertainty, it is becoming clearer that an organization’s underlying structures, processes and culture play a crucial role in its ability to serve its stakeholders. What are the key factors that either enable or inhibit an organization to rise to the challenges of this unique time in human history? What animating principles should guide the structure, processes and culture of organizations that are equipped both to fulfill their mission and purpose and create an environment where the capacities of its members are more fully cultivated?
This seminar will focus on gaining a greater appreciation of the incredible healing power of the arts, including art forms traditionally viewed as “crafts,” and gracefully integrating them into joyful community activities and celebrations. Current art criticism is increasingly focusing on diverse narratives, inclusivity and accessibility, globalization, and the use of social media. We will touch on some of these currents and, by blending scholarly analysis with hands-on creative activities, we will foster a space to reflect on the arts' role “as an important means of generating joy, strengthening bonds of unity, disseminating knowledge and consolidating understanding” (Universal House of Justice).
The environment is among Nine Year Plan concerns identified by the House of Justice. This seminar includes a day in nature, led by a retired environmental officer, and a day of study and discussion. We’ll share highlights from several years of Climate/Environment reading groups. Together, we’ll consult about present and future learning and action with many potential allies. Advance readings will help us look at what is currently known, likely projections and what they mean for our lives. Questions to discuss include: what will the change process look like in 2030, 2050 and later; what will the world be like? What kinds of institutions, community life, and individual qualities are needed to manage these challenges? How can we infuse Bahá’í principles of unity, love, justice and moderation into discourses? What process do we use to assess new phenomena and avoid falling prey to misinformation and disinformation?
This seminar is intended for current undergraduate or graduate students and practitioners or researchers working in the biological sciences. Most biology curricula purport to be focused on biological mechanisms. Yet these mechanisms are often interpreted within a materialistic framework, the implications of which are not always apparent to students. Such materialistic interpretations can unfortunately lead students down a line of thought which seems to imply the non-existence of spiritual reality. Two major themes that are often taught this way are evolution and consciousness. These topics are also referenced in the Bahá’í Writings in ways that must be carefully correlated with prevailing scientific findings. This seminar will therefore explore the following questions: What is the relationship between evolutionary biology and the Bahá’í teachings on evolution? What is the relationship between findings from neuroscience and the Bahá’í teachings on the mind and soul? How do social forces influence biological phenomena as well as the study of those phenomena? What qualities, attitudes, skills, and habits of mind can we develop in order to find coherence between scientific findings and insights from the Revelation?
This seminar is intended for current undergraduate or graduate students and practitioners or researchers working in the biological sciences. Most biology curricula purport to be focused on biological mechanisms. Yet these mechanisms are often interpreted within a materialistic framework, the implications of which are not always apparent to students. Such materialistic interpretations can unfortunately lead students down a line of thought which seems to imply the non-existence of spiritual reality. Two major themes that are often taught this way are evolution and consciousness. These topics are also referenced in the Bahá’í Writings in ways that must be carefully correlated with prevailing scientific findings. This seminar will therefore explore the following questions: What is the relationship between evolutionary biology and the Bahá’í teachings on evolution? What is the relationship between findings from neuroscience and the Bahá’í teachings on the mind and soul? How do social forces influence biological phenomena as well as the study of those phenomena? What qualities, attitudes, skills, and habits of mind can we develop in order to find coherence between scientific findings and insights from the Revelation?
In this enquiry-based, participatory, arts and science-centered seminar, participants will explore paths to reconciliation using Bahá'í consultation and Indigenous wisdom. It will build on the learning of previous reading groups and last year's seminar in a cooperative setting in a humble posture of learning and mutual respect. Reconciliation is a process rather than an event, a marathon rather than a sprint. Our consultation will center around Bahá'u'lláh's pivotal principle of the oneness of humanity, the nobility of the human soul, unity in diversity, love, and service to humanity following the guidance and goals of the global Nine Year Plan to release the Faith's society-building powers. Participants may send their questions, art contributions, relevant quotes, and topics for consideration. There are required preparatory materials as well as recommended materials for this seminar. Participant registration signifies a commitment to participating for both days of the seminar.
This seminar may be of interest to undergraduate students (in any discipline) who have taken at least one introductory economics course, graduate students, or others that work with discourses about economic life. It invites participants into a conversation in which the content of introductory economics courses are considered in light of the Bahá’í teachings and learning of the community in its efforts for social transformation. The aim is to encourage coherent thinking as students encounter ideas that are less than fully aligned with the Revelation and with the needs of the age.
What commonalities do the community building goals of the Faith and public libraries share? How does librarianship conceive of human nature, and in what ways do these conceptions align with or pull away from conceptions found in the Writings? How does an historical view of librarianship evolve to meet the current needs of the Faith’s work in building community? How might access to information in a public library play a role in community building? This seminar will explore the library as a social institution, its varied structures and functions, as well as its interaction with the community and with other institutions. Using conceptions of the library found in the writings of the Guardian, and comparing these conceptions to recent literature in librarianship and information studies, participants will elaborate a vision of the role of libraries in community building. Community building is a core value of librarianship and of the Bahá’í Faith. The library is a space where this value can be expressed both through direct Bahá’í educational activities and through contributing to conversations within the profession. Identifying connections between conceptions of community building drawn from librarianship and drawn from the conceptual framework of the Faith will strengthen our ability to make these contributions. Librarians have an opportunity to learn how insights from the Bahá’í Writings and the framework for action can be expressed in the many social spaces afforded through the profession of librarianship. The library is one among many institutions that make up the fabric of a society. Learning to analyze and imagine new directions for these institutions is one aspect of how we can contribute to the transformation of society in a more coherent way.
This seminar is designed for participants engaged directly within the field of mental health or education. Mental health challenges at any stage of life carry with them not only personal suffering and collective grief, but they may also keep hidden the society-building capabilities latent within each person. In North America we are seeing growing rates of depression, self-harm, anxiety, substance use, and other mental health challenges. In a continuation from the last several thematic seminars we will consider: What current conceptual models are used to understand mental health and illness and to inform treatment approaches, and what are their limitations and assumptions? What constitutes a vibrant community with respect to emotional and psychological well-being? What supports do communities need to better foster the emotional and psychological well-being of individuals and groups? What current barriers exist to accessing mental health resources in our communities? Who are our vulnerable and historically underserved demographics within our communities? What support would institutions such as Local Spiritual Assemblies need to better address complex mental health challenges within our communities?
What is an economic system meant to solve for? What would spiritually rooted economic frameworks (for production, commerce, consumption, etc.) look like? What are the guiding principles on which it would be based? How does learning within and beyond the Bahá’í community advance our understanding of the roles of the three protagonists–the individual, the community and institutions–in an economy that serves the needs of humanity in the process of advancing civilization? In what ways does this learning help us redefine concepts of power and justice? For example, how might it be helpful to think of power in terms of collective action, or sacrificial effort? Or to think in terms of contributive justice? Although the Bahá’í teachings do not prescribe an economic system for the future, it is clear that the current system is lamentably defective and will need to evolve in order to better serve the needs of humanity. New patterns of economic life will emerge through processes of learning in action, in which spiritual principle is applied to meet the needs of communities and populations. This seminar aims to reflect on the experience and thought of the cooperative movement and broader endeavors to reshape economic institutions, systems, relationships and processes, and to correlate these with insights from the teachings of the Faith and the experiences of the Bahá’í community.
Participatory action research (PAR) is a methodology gaining traction for its collaborative and emancipatory approach. Rooted in social justice movements, PAR emphasizes involving those most affected by research in knowledge production and action to challenge inequalities. It recognizes the agency and expertise of communities, contesting traditional notions of objectivity and offering pathways for systematic inquiry and action for justice. This seminar explores how PAR principles can cohere with Bahá'í community actions and how both can learn from each other, fostering dialogue between students, scholars, and community members.
This thematic seminar is dedicated to exploring the role of diversity and universal participation in releasing the power of expression in light of the Bahá’í Writings. Communication and expression across modalities, purposes, and peoples will be analyzed. Types of diversity explored will include linguistic, neurological, disability/ability, racial, gender, and types of artistic and cultural diversity. Some perspectives from the field of speech-language pathology will be given in this seminar. However, professionals from all fields are encouraged to participate.
The concepts of oneness and unity are fundamental within the Bahá’í Faith and have tremendous implications for a society plagued by a crisis of identity. In the health field, numerous professionals trained in various disciplines and domains exist, and while the underlying goal of most professionals is to improve the health and wellbeing of people and communities, immense challenges around professional identity inhibit many from engaging in this noble aspiration. Polarizing identities furthered by lack of trust between professional bodies, artificial power dynamics, and dissonance between capacity to serve and politically defined domains of practice are among some of the challenges that health professionals experience. These challenges can hinder willingness to engage in multiple disciplinary work, despite how necessary it has become. In this thematic seminar, we will explore the following two questions: (1) What would a definition for professional identity look like, when informed by the Bahá’í approach to oneness and unity?; and (2) How would this definition guide the development of a practical framework for collaborative practice in the health field?
What are the implications for discourse that the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh is “scientific in its method”? To promote discourse, can we draw on the concept of an evolving conceptual framework in a mode of learning? What role might spiritual virtues play in doing science? How do we engage our academic and professional peers in meaningful discourse on the ‘problems afflicting humanity’? In this seminar we will explore these questions by studying selected passages from the Bahá’í writings on the harmony of science and religion and the concept of the Revelation being ‘scientific in its method’, the need for ‘a humble posture of learning’, and the concept of an evolving conceptual framework for action and scholarship. Participants will be sent material in advance which they will be expected to have read before the start of the seminar. The objective of this seminar is to explore the coherence between science and religion, which provides a counter-balance to materialism and reductionism within academic discourse, within the professions, and in the wider world of thought.
Thursday July 31, 2025 9:00am - 11:45am MDT Glen 201South building - 2nd level
How does thinking of the whole community enable grass-roots efforts to be more effective? How can learning be more efficiently shared across seemingly different communities? How can teams use systems tools to improve the quality of consultation as we work towards a shared understanding of our reality? Systems science, the “science of the whole”, has a rich history in fields as diverse as public health, organizational management, and supply chains. The history of the Bahá’í faith is full of examples of systems science concepts being used in the worldwide teaching plans. This seminar will explore systems concepts and tools, especially causal loop diagrams, in an interactive manner. Throughout, we will be applying these methods and approaches to the context of the 9-year plan. This seminar is developed for those without any experience in systems science methods.
The discourse on technology and society points to an urgent need for communities to strengthen their capacity to make wise choices about technology. Building on concepts from Reflections on the Advancement of Technology and Society, this seminar will examine some requisite capabilities and institutional arrangements that facilitate this strengthening. Drawing on insights and case studies from the discourse, participants will be challenged to apply the framework for action to questions such as: what social forces reduce technological choice to either personal preference or institutional imposition? How can communities evaluate choices about technology? What institutional arrangements make such choices more or less amenable to revision in light of learning processes at the level of the community? Grappling with these issues in a focused environment will prepare participants to elevate conversations about technology in their home communities and begin a process of building the capacities examined throughout the seminar.
What does it mean to articulate a Bahá'í perspective on technology? How can our conceptual framework (as it relates to technology) be progressively shaped by the principles of the Bahá'í Faith and the experience of our community? The purpose of this seminar will be to examine some central concepts related to technology and the advancement of civilization. Participants will be able to articulate how elements of the conceptual framework apply to questions surrounding technology during humanity’s passage to maturity. We will cultivate the essential capability to evaluate the intellectual foundations of discourses about technology and society. Our exploration will assist us to move beyond a view of technology as “a neutral means to freely-chosen ends” by appreciating the power of technology to shape thought and action. We will critically examine prevalent notions about the proliferation of technology and its relationship to social transformation.
This seminar aims to bring together students and those in the first several years of work in the field of healthcare to examine some underlying assumptions shaping contemporary approaches to health and health care systems. How do these assumptions affect our attitudes and approaches to wellbeing? What insights from the framework of the nine year plan can assist us in re-examining some of these assumptions? Particular topics of focus may include defining health, the role of illness and the human condition, and manifestations of illness at the level of the individual and society. We hope this space will provide an opportunity for reflection as we take our next steps into the field of health care and align our patterns of thought and action with the Revelation. This seminar is intended for undergraduate students, graduate students and those in professional health training (medicine, dentistry, etc), as well as those in the first few years of practice.
As organizations struggle to adapt to ever-changing conditions in an era of relentless change, social turmoil and economic uncertainty, it is becoming clearer that an organization’s underlying structures, processes and culture play a crucial role in its ability to serve its stakeholders. What are the key factors that either enable or inhibit an organization to rise to the challenges of this unique time in human history? What animating principles should guide the structure, processes and culture of organizations that are equipped both to fulfill their mission and purpose and create an environment where the capacities of its members are more fully cultivated?
This seminar will focus on gaining a greater appreciation of the incredible healing power of the arts, including art forms traditionally viewed as “crafts,” and gracefully integrating them into joyful community activities and celebrations. Current art criticism is increasingly focusing on diverse narratives, inclusivity and accessibility, globalization, and the use of social media. We will touch on some of these currents and, by blending scholarly analysis with hands-on creative activities, we will foster a space to reflect on the arts' role “as an important means of generating joy, strengthening bonds of unity, disseminating knowledge and consolidating understanding” (Universal House of Justice).
The environment is among Nine Year Plan concerns identified by the House of Justice. This seminar includes a day in nature, led by a retired environmental officer, and a day of study and discussion. We’ll share highlights from several years of Climate/Environment reading groups. Together, we’ll consult about present and future learning and action with many potential allies. Advance readings will help us look at what is currently known, likely projections and what they mean for our lives. Questions to discuss include: what will the change process look like in 2030, 2050 and later; what will the world be like? What kinds of institutions, community life, and individual qualities are needed to manage these challenges? How can we infuse Bahá’í principles of unity, love, justice and moderation into discourses? What process do we use to assess new phenomena and avoid falling prey to misinformation and disinformation?
This seminar is intended for current undergraduate or graduate students and practitioners or researchers working in the biological sciences. Most biology curricula purport to be focused on biological mechanisms. Yet these mechanisms are often interpreted within a materialistic framework, the implications of which are not always apparent to students. Such materialistic interpretations can unfortunately lead students down a line of thought which seems to imply the non-existence of spiritual reality. Two major themes that are often taught this way are evolution and consciousness. These topics are also referenced in the Bahá’í Writings in ways that must be carefully correlated with prevailing scientific findings. This seminar will therefore explore the following questions: What is the relationship between evolutionary biology and the Bahá’í teachings on evolution? What is the relationship between findings from neuroscience and the Bahá’í teachings on the mind and soul? How do social forces influence biological phenomena as well as the study of those phenomena? What qualities, attitudes, skills, and habits of mind can we develop in order to find coherence between scientific findings and insights from the Revelation?
This seminar is intended for current undergraduate or graduate students and practitioners or researchers working in the biological sciences. Most biology curricula purport to be focused on biological mechanisms. Yet these mechanisms are often interpreted within a materialistic framework, the implications of which are not always apparent to students. Such materialistic interpretations can unfortunately lead students down a line of thought which seems to imply the non-existence of spiritual reality. Two major themes that are often taught this way are evolution and consciousness. These topics are also referenced in the Bahá’í Writings in ways that must be carefully correlated with prevailing scientific findings. This seminar will therefore explore the following questions: What is the relationship between evolutionary biology and the Bahá’í teachings on evolution? What is the relationship between findings from neuroscience and the Bahá’í teachings on the mind and soul? How do social forces influence biological phenomena as well as the study of those phenomena? What qualities, attitudes, skills, and habits of mind can we develop in order to find coherence between scientific findings and insights from the Revelation?
In this enquiry-based, participatory, arts and science-centered seminar, participants will explore paths to reconciliation using Bahá'í consultation and Indigenous wisdom. It will build on the learning of previous reading groups and last year's seminar in a cooperative setting in a humble posture of learning and mutual respect. Reconciliation is a process rather than an event, a marathon rather than a sprint. Our consultation will center around Bahá'u'lláh's pivotal principle of the oneness of humanity, the nobility of the human soul, unity in diversity, love, and service to humanity following the guidance and goals of the global Nine Year Plan to release the Faith's society-building powers. Participants may send their questions, art contributions, relevant quotes, and topics for consideration. There are required preparatory materials as well as recommended materials for this seminar. Participant registration signifies a commitment to participating for both days of the seminar.
This seminar may be of interest to undergraduate students (in any discipline) who have taken at least one introductory economics course, graduate students, or others that work with discourses about economic life. It invites participants into a conversation in which the content of introductory economics courses are considered in light of the Bahá’í teachings and learning of the community in its efforts for social transformation. The aim is to encourage coherent thinking as students encounter ideas that are less than fully aligned with the Revelation and with the needs of the age.
What commonalities do the community building goals of the Faith and public libraries share? How does librarianship conceive of human nature, and in what ways do these conceptions align with or pull away from conceptions found in the Writings? How does an historical view of librarianship evolve to meet the current needs of the Faith’s work in building community? How might access to information in a public library play a role in community building? This seminar will explore the library as a social institution, its varied structures and functions, as well as its interaction with the community and with other institutions. Using conceptions of the library found in the writings of the Guardian, and comparing these conceptions to recent literature in librarianship and information studies, participants will elaborate a vision of the role of libraries in community building. Community building is a core value of librarianship and of the Bahá’í Faith. The library is a space where this value can be expressed both through direct Bahá’í educational activities and through contributing to conversations within the profession. Identifying connections between conceptions of community building drawn from librarianship and drawn from the conceptual framework of the Faith will strengthen our ability to make these contributions. Librarians have an opportunity to learn how insights from the Bahá’í Writings and the framework for action can be expressed in the many social spaces afforded through the profession of librarianship. The library is one among many institutions that make up the fabric of a society. Learning to analyze and imagine new directions for these institutions is one aspect of how we can contribute to the transformation of society in a more coherent way.
This seminar is designed for participants engaged directly within the field of mental health or education. Mental health challenges at any stage of life carry with them not only personal suffering and collective grief, but they may also keep hidden the society-building capabilities latent within each person. In North America we are seeing growing rates of depression, self-harm, anxiety, substance use, and other mental health challenges. In a continuation from the last several thematic seminars we will consider: What current conceptual models are used to understand mental health and illness and to inform treatment approaches, and what are their limitations and assumptions? What constitutes a vibrant community with respect to emotional and psychological well-being? What supports do communities need to better foster the emotional and psychological well-being of individuals and groups? What current barriers exist to accessing mental health resources in our communities? Who are our vulnerable and historically underserved demographics within our communities? What support would institutions such as Local Spiritual Assemblies need to better address complex mental health challenges within our communities?
What is an economic system meant to solve for? What would spiritually rooted economic frameworks (for production, commerce, consumption, etc.) look like? What are the guiding principles on which it would be based? How does learning within and beyond the Bahá’í community advance our understanding of the roles of the three protagonists–the individual, the community and institutions–in an economy that serves the needs of humanity in the process of advancing civilization? In what ways does this learning help us redefine concepts of power and justice? For example, how might it be helpful to think of power in terms of collective action, or sacrificial effort? Or to think in terms of contributive justice? Although the Bahá’í teachings do not prescribe an economic system for the future, it is clear that the current system is lamentably defective and will need to evolve in order to better serve the needs of humanity. New patterns of economic life will emerge through processes of learning in action, in which spiritual principle is applied to meet the needs of communities and populations. This seminar aims to reflect on the experience and thought of the cooperative movement and broader endeavors to reshape economic institutions, systems, relationships and processes, and to correlate these with insights from the teachings of the Faith and the experiences of the Bahá’í community.
Participatory action research (PAR) is a methodology gaining traction for its collaborative and emancipatory approach. Rooted in social justice movements, PAR emphasizes involving those most affected by research in knowledge production and action to challenge inequalities. It recognizes the agency and expertise of communities, contesting traditional notions of objectivity and offering pathways for systematic inquiry and action for justice. This seminar explores how PAR principles can cohere with Bahá'í community actions and how both can learn from each other, fostering dialogue between students, scholars, and community members.
This thematic seminar is dedicated to exploring the role of diversity and universal participation in releasing the power of expression in light of the Bahá’í Writings. Communication and expression across modalities, purposes, and peoples will be analyzed. Types of diversity explored will include linguistic, neurological, disability/ability, racial, gender, and types of artistic and cultural diversity. Some perspectives from the field of speech-language pathology will be given in this seminar. However, professionals from all fields are encouraged to participate.
The concepts of oneness and unity are fundamental within the Bahá’í Faith and have tremendous implications for a society plagued by a crisis of identity. In the health field, numerous professionals trained in various disciplines and domains exist, and while the underlying goal of most professionals is to improve the health and wellbeing of people and communities, immense challenges around professional identity inhibit many from engaging in this noble aspiration. Polarizing identities furthered by lack of trust between professional bodies, artificial power dynamics, and dissonance between capacity to serve and politically defined domains of practice are among some of the challenges that health professionals experience. These challenges can hinder willingness to engage in multiple disciplinary work, despite how necessary it has become. In this thematic seminar, we will explore the following two questions: (1) What would a definition for professional identity look like, when informed by the Bahá’í approach to oneness and unity?; and (2) How would this definition guide the development of a practical framework for collaborative practice in the health field?
What are the implications for discourse that the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh is “scientific in its method”? To promote discourse, can we draw on the concept of an evolving conceptual framework in a mode of learning? What role might spiritual virtues play in doing science? How do we engage our academic and professional peers in meaningful discourse on the ‘problems afflicting humanity’? In this seminar we will explore these questions by studying selected passages from the Bahá’í writings on the harmony of science and religion and the concept of the Revelation being ‘scientific in its method’, the need for ‘a humble posture of learning’, and the concept of an evolving conceptual framework for action and scholarship. Participants will be sent material in advance which they will be expected to have read before the start of the seminar. The objective of this seminar is to explore the coherence between science and religion, which provides a counter-balance to materialism and reductionism within academic discourse, within the professions, and in the wider world of thought.
Thursday July 31, 2025 2:00pm - 4:45pm MDT Glen 201South building - 2nd level
How does thinking of the whole community enable grass-roots efforts to be more effective? How can learning be more efficiently shared across seemingly different communities? How can teams use systems tools to improve the quality of consultation as we work towards a shared understanding of our reality? Systems science, the “science of the whole”, has a rich history in fields as diverse as public health, organizational management, and supply chains. The history of the Bahá’í faith is full of examples of systems science concepts being used in the worldwide teaching plans. This seminar will explore systems concepts and tools, especially causal loop diagrams, in an interactive manner. Throughout, we will be applying these methods and approaches to the context of the 9-year plan. This seminar is developed for those without any experience in systems science methods.
The discourse on technology and society points to an urgent need for communities to strengthen their capacity to make wise choices about technology. Building on concepts from Reflections on the Advancement of Technology and Society, this seminar will examine some requisite capabilities and institutional arrangements that facilitate this strengthening. Drawing on insights and case studies from the discourse, participants will be challenged to apply the framework for action to questions such as: what social forces reduce technological choice to either personal preference or institutional imposition? How can communities evaluate choices about technology? What institutional arrangements make such choices more or less amenable to revision in light of learning processes at the level of the community? Grappling with these issues in a focused environment will prepare participants to elevate conversations about technology in their home communities and begin a process of building the capacities examined throughout the seminar.
What does it mean to articulate a Bahá'í perspective on technology? How can our conceptual framework (as it relates to technology) be progressively shaped by the principles of the Bahá'í Faith and the experience of our community? The purpose of this seminar will be to examine some central concepts related to technology and the advancement of civilization. Participants will be able to articulate how elements of the conceptual framework apply to questions surrounding technology during humanity’s passage to maturity. We will cultivate the essential capability to evaluate the intellectual foundations of discourses about technology and society. Our exploration will assist us to move beyond a view of technology as “a neutral means to freely-chosen ends” by appreciating the power of technology to shape thought and action. We will critically examine prevalent notions about the proliferation of technology and its relationship to social transformation.
This seminar aims to bring together students and those in the first several years of work in the field of healthcare to examine some underlying assumptions shaping contemporary approaches to health and health care systems. How do these assumptions affect our attitudes and approaches to wellbeing? What insights from the framework of the nine year plan can assist us in re-examining some of these assumptions? Particular topics of focus may include defining health, the role of illness and the human condition, and manifestations of illness at the level of the individual and society. We hope this space will provide an opportunity for reflection as we take our next steps into the field of health care and align our patterns of thought and action with the Revelation. This seminar is intended for undergraduate students, graduate students and those in professional health training (medicine, dentistry, etc), as well as those in the first few years of practice.
As organizations struggle to adapt to ever-changing conditions in an era of relentless change, social turmoil and economic uncertainty, it is becoming clearer that an organization’s underlying structures, processes and culture play a crucial role in its ability to serve its stakeholders. What are the key factors that either enable or inhibit an organization to rise to the challenges of this unique time in human history? What animating principles should guide the structure, processes and culture of organizations that are equipped both to fulfill their mission and purpose and create an environment where the capacities of its members are more fully cultivated?
This seminar will focus on gaining a greater appreciation of the incredible healing power of the arts, including art forms traditionally viewed as “crafts,” and gracefully integrating them into joyful community activities and celebrations. Current art criticism is increasingly focusing on diverse narratives, inclusivity and accessibility, globalization, and the use of social media. We will touch on some of these currents and, by blending scholarly analysis with hands-on creative activities, we will foster a space to reflect on the arts' role “as an important means of generating joy, strengthening bonds of unity, disseminating knowledge and consolidating understanding” (Universal House of Justice).
The environment is among Nine Year Plan concerns identified by the House of Justice. This seminar includes a day in nature, led by a retired environmental officer, and a day of study and discussion. We’ll share highlights from several years of Climate/Environment reading groups. Together, we’ll consult about present and future learning and action with many potential allies. Advance readings will help us look at what is currently known, likely projections and what they mean for our lives. Questions to discuss include: what will the change process look like in 2030, 2050 and later; what will the world be like? What kinds of institutions, community life, and individual qualities are needed to manage these challenges? How can we infuse Bahá’í principles of unity, love, justice and moderation into discourses? What process do we use to assess new phenomena and avoid falling prey to misinformation and disinformation?
This seminar is intended for current undergraduate or graduate students and practitioners or researchers working in the biological sciences. Most biology curricula purport to be focused on biological mechanisms. Yet these mechanisms are often interpreted within a materialistic framework, the implications of which are not always apparent to students. Such materialistic interpretations can unfortunately lead students down a line of thought which seems to imply the non-existence of spiritual reality. Two major themes that are often taught this way are evolution and consciousness. These topics are also referenced in the Bahá’í Writings in ways that must be carefully correlated with prevailing scientific findings. This seminar will therefore explore the following questions: What is the relationship between evolutionary biology and the Bahá’í teachings on evolution? What is the relationship between findings from neuroscience and the Bahá’í teachings on the mind and soul? How do social forces influence biological phenomena as well as the study of those phenomena? What qualities, attitudes, skills, and habits of mind can we develop in order to find coherence between scientific findings and insights from the Revelation?
This seminar is intended for current undergraduate or graduate students and practitioners or researchers working in the biological sciences. Most biology curricula purport to be focused on biological mechanisms. Yet these mechanisms are often interpreted within a materialistic framework, the implications of which are not always apparent to students. Such materialistic interpretations can unfortunately lead students down a line of thought which seems to imply the non-existence of spiritual reality. Two major themes that are often taught this way are evolution and consciousness. These topics are also referenced in the Bahá’í Writings in ways that must be carefully correlated with prevailing scientific findings. This seminar will therefore explore the following questions: What is the relationship between evolutionary biology and the Bahá’í teachings on evolution? What is the relationship between findings from neuroscience and the Bahá’í teachings on the mind and soul? How do social forces influence biological phenomena as well as the study of those phenomena? What qualities, attitudes, skills, and habits of mind can we develop in order to find coherence between scientific findings and insights from the Revelation?
In this enquiry-based, participatory, arts and science-centered seminar, participants will explore paths to reconciliation using Bahá'í consultation and Indigenous wisdom. It will build on the learning of previous reading groups and last year's seminar in a cooperative setting in a humble posture of learning and mutual respect. Reconciliation is a process rather than an event, a marathon rather than a sprint. Our consultation will center around Bahá'u'lláh's pivotal principle of the oneness of humanity, the nobility of the human soul, unity in diversity, love, and service to humanity following the guidance and goals of the global Nine Year Plan to release the Faith's society-building powers. Participants may send their questions, art contributions, relevant quotes, and topics for consideration. There are required preparatory materials as well as recommended materials for this seminar. Participant registration signifies a commitment to participating for both days of the seminar.
This seminar may be of interest to undergraduate students (in any discipline) who have taken at least one introductory economics course, graduate students, or others that work with discourses about economic life. It invites participants into a conversation in which the content of introductory economics courses are considered in light of the Bahá’í teachings and learning of the community in its efforts for social transformation. The aim is to encourage coherent thinking as students encounter ideas that are less than fully aligned with the Revelation and with the needs of the age.
What commonalities do the community building goals of the Faith and public libraries share? How does librarianship conceive of human nature, and in what ways do these conceptions align with or pull away from conceptions found in the Writings? How does an historical view of librarianship evolve to meet the current needs of the Faith’s work in building community? How might access to information in a public library play a role in community building? This seminar will explore the library as a social institution, its varied structures and functions, as well as its interaction with the community and with other institutions. Using conceptions of the library found in the writings of the Guardian, and comparing these conceptions to recent literature in librarianship and information studies, participants will elaborate a vision of the role of libraries in community building. Community building is a core value of librarianship and of the Bahá’í Faith. The library is a space where this value can be expressed both through direct Bahá’í educational activities and through contributing to conversations within the profession. Identifying connections between conceptions of community building drawn from librarianship and drawn from the conceptual framework of the Faith will strengthen our ability to make these contributions. Librarians have an opportunity to learn how insights from the Bahá’í Writings and the framework for action can be expressed in the many social spaces afforded through the profession of librarianship. The library is one among many institutions that make up the fabric of a society. Learning to analyze and imagine new directions for these institutions is one aspect of how we can contribute to the transformation of society in a more coherent way.
This seminar is designed for participants engaged directly within the field of mental health or education. Mental health challenges at any stage of life carry with them not only personal suffering and collective grief, but they may also keep hidden the society-building capabilities latent within each person. In North America we are seeing growing rates of depression, self-harm, anxiety, substance use, and other mental health challenges. In a continuation from the last several thematic seminars we will consider: What current conceptual models are used to understand mental health and illness and to inform treatment approaches, and what are their limitations and assumptions? What constitutes a vibrant community with respect to emotional and psychological well-being? What supports do communities need to better foster the emotional and psychological well-being of individuals and groups? What current barriers exist to accessing mental health resources in our communities? Who are our vulnerable and historically underserved demographics within our communities? What support would institutions such as Local Spiritual Assemblies need to better address complex mental health challenges within our communities?
What is an economic system meant to solve for? What would spiritually rooted economic frameworks (for production, commerce, consumption, etc.) look like? What are the guiding principles on which it would be based? How does learning within and beyond the Bahá’í community advance our understanding of the roles of the three protagonists–the individual, the community and institutions–in an economy that serves the needs of humanity in the process of advancing civilization? In what ways does this learning help us redefine concepts of power and justice? For example, how might it be helpful to think of power in terms of collective action, or sacrificial effort? Or to think in terms of contributive justice? Although the Bahá’í teachings do not prescribe an economic system for the future, it is clear that the current system is lamentably defective and will need to evolve in order to better serve the needs of humanity. New patterns of economic life will emerge through processes of learning in action, in which spiritual principle is applied to meet the needs of communities and populations. This seminar aims to reflect on the experience and thought of the cooperative movement and broader endeavors to reshape economic institutions, systems, relationships and processes, and to correlate these with insights from the teachings of the Faith and the experiences of the Bahá’í community.
Participatory action research (PAR) is a methodology gaining traction for its collaborative and emancipatory approach. Rooted in social justice movements, PAR emphasizes involving those most affected by research in knowledge production and action to challenge inequalities. It recognizes the agency and expertise of communities, contesting traditional notions of objectivity and offering pathways for systematic inquiry and action for justice. This seminar explores how PAR principles can cohere with Bahá'í community actions and how both can learn from each other, fostering dialogue between students, scholars, and community members.
This thematic seminar is dedicated to exploring the role of diversity and universal participation in releasing the power of expression in light of the Bahá’í Writings. Communication and expression across modalities, purposes, and peoples will be analyzed. Types of diversity explored will include linguistic, neurological, disability/ability, racial, gender, and types of artistic and cultural diversity. Some perspectives from the field of speech-language pathology will be given in this seminar. However, professionals from all fields are encouraged to participate.
The concepts of oneness and unity are fundamental within the Bahá’í Faith and have tremendous implications for a society plagued by a crisis of identity. In the health field, numerous professionals trained in various disciplines and domains exist, and while the underlying goal of most professionals is to improve the health and wellbeing of people and communities, immense challenges around professional identity inhibit many from engaging in this noble aspiration. Polarizing identities furthered by lack of trust between professional bodies, artificial power dynamics, and dissonance between capacity to serve and politically defined domains of practice are among some of the challenges that health professionals experience. These challenges can hinder willingness to engage in multiple disciplinary work, despite how necessary it has become. In this thematic seminar, we will explore the following two questions: (1) What would a definition for professional identity look like, when informed by the Bahá’í approach to oneness and unity?; and (2) How would this definition guide the development of a practical framework for collaborative practice in the health field?
What are the implications for discourse that the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh is “scientific in its method”? To promote discourse, can we draw on the concept of an evolving conceptual framework in a mode of learning? What role might spiritual virtues play in doing science? How do we engage our academic and professional peers in meaningful discourse on the ‘problems afflicting humanity’? In this seminar we will explore these questions by studying selected passages from the Bahá’í writings on the harmony of science and religion and the concept of the Revelation being ‘scientific in its method’, the need for ‘a humble posture of learning’, and the concept of an evolving conceptual framework for action and scholarship. Participants will be sent material in advance which they will be expected to have read before the start of the seminar. The objective of this seminar is to explore the coherence between science and religion, which provides a counter-balance to materialism and reductionism within academic discourse, within the professions, and in the wider world of thought.
Friday August 1, 2025 9:00am - 11:45am MDT Glen 201South building - 2nd level
How does thinking of the whole community enable grass-roots efforts to be more effective? How can learning be more efficiently shared across seemingly different communities? How can teams use systems tools to improve the quality of consultation as we work towards a shared understanding of our reality? Systems science, the “science of the whole”, has a rich history in fields as diverse as public health, organizational management, and supply chains. The history of the Bahá’í faith is full of examples of systems science concepts being used in the worldwide teaching plans. This seminar will explore systems concepts and tools, especially causal loop diagrams, in an interactive manner. Throughout, we will be applying these methods and approaches to the context of the 9-year plan. This seminar is developed for those without any experience in systems science methods.
The discourse on technology and society points to an urgent need for communities to strengthen their capacity to make wise choices about technology. Building on concepts from Reflections on the Advancement of Technology and Society, this seminar will examine some requisite capabilities and institutional arrangements that facilitate this strengthening. Drawing on insights and case studies from the discourse, participants will be challenged to apply the framework for action to questions such as: what social forces reduce technological choice to either personal preference or institutional imposition? How can communities evaluate choices about technology? What institutional arrangements make such choices more or less amenable to revision in light of learning processes at the level of the community? Grappling with these issues in a focused environment will prepare participants to elevate conversations about technology in their home communities and begin a process of building the capacities examined throughout the seminar.
What does it mean to articulate a Bahá'í perspective on technology? How can our conceptual framework (as it relates to technology) be progressively shaped by the principles of the Bahá'í Faith and the experience of our community? The purpose of this seminar will be to examine some central concepts related to technology and the advancement of civilization. Participants will be able to articulate how elements of the conceptual framework apply to questions surrounding technology during humanity’s passage to maturity. We will cultivate the essential capability to evaluate the intellectual foundations of discourses about technology and society. Our exploration will assist us to move beyond a view of technology as “a neutral means to freely-chosen ends” by appreciating the power of technology to shape thought and action. We will critically examine prevalent notions about the proliferation of technology and its relationship to social transformation.
This seminar aims to bring together students and those in the first several years of work in the field of healthcare to examine some underlying assumptions shaping contemporary approaches to health and health care systems. How do these assumptions affect our attitudes and approaches to wellbeing? What insights from the framework of the nine year plan can assist us in re-examining some of these assumptions? Particular topics of focus may include defining health, the role of illness and the human condition, and manifestations of illness at the level of the individual and society. We hope this space will provide an opportunity for reflection as we take our next steps into the field of health care and align our patterns of thought and action with the Revelation. This seminar is intended for undergraduate students, graduate students and those in professional health training (medicine, dentistry, etc), as well as those in the first few years of practice.
As organizations struggle to adapt to ever-changing conditions in an era of relentless change, social turmoil and economic uncertainty, it is becoming clearer that an organization’s underlying structures, processes and culture play a crucial role in its ability to serve its stakeholders. What are the key factors that either enable or inhibit an organization to rise to the challenges of this unique time in human history? What animating principles should guide the structure, processes and culture of organizations that are equipped both to fulfill their mission and purpose and create an environment where the capacities of its members are more fully cultivated?
This seminar will focus on gaining a greater appreciation of the incredible healing power of the arts, including art forms traditionally viewed as “crafts,” and gracefully integrating them into joyful community activities and celebrations. Current art criticism is increasingly focusing on diverse narratives, inclusivity and accessibility, globalization, and the use of social media. We will touch on some of these currents and, by blending scholarly analysis with hands-on creative activities, we will foster a space to reflect on the arts' role “as an important means of generating joy, strengthening bonds of unity, disseminating knowledge and consolidating understanding” (Universal House of Justice).
The environment is among Nine Year Plan concerns identified by the House of Justice. This seminar includes a day in nature, led by a retired environmental officer, and a day of study and discussion. We’ll share highlights from several years of Climate/Environment reading groups. Together, we’ll consult about present and future learning and action with many potential allies. Advance readings will help us look at what is currently known, likely projections and what they mean for our lives. Questions to discuss include: what will the change process look like in 2030, 2050 and later; what will the world be like? What kinds of institutions, community life, and individual qualities are needed to manage these challenges? How can we infuse Bahá’í principles of unity, love, justice and moderation into discourses? What process do we use to assess new phenomena and avoid falling prey to misinformation and disinformation?
This seminar is intended for current undergraduate or graduate students and practitioners or researchers working in the biological sciences. Most biology curricula purport to be focused on biological mechanisms. Yet these mechanisms are often interpreted within a materialistic framework, the implications of which are not always apparent to students. Such materialistic interpretations can unfortunately lead students down a line of thought which seems to imply the non-existence of spiritual reality. Two major themes that are often taught this way are evolution and consciousness. These topics are also referenced in the Bahá’í Writings in ways that must be carefully correlated with prevailing scientific findings. This seminar will therefore explore the following questions: What is the relationship between evolutionary biology and the Bahá’í teachings on evolution? What is the relationship between findings from neuroscience and the Bahá’í teachings on the mind and soul? How do social forces influence biological phenomena as well as the study of those phenomena? What qualities, attitudes, skills, and habits of mind can we develop in order to find coherence between scientific findings and insights from the Revelation?
This seminar is intended for current undergraduate or graduate students and practitioners or researchers working in the biological sciences. Most biology curricula purport to be focused on biological mechanisms. Yet these mechanisms are often interpreted within a materialistic framework, the implications of which are not always apparent to students. Such materialistic interpretations can unfortunately lead students down a line of thought which seems to imply the non-existence of spiritual reality. Two major themes that are often taught this way are evolution and consciousness. These topics are also referenced in the Bahá’í Writings in ways that must be carefully correlated with prevailing scientific findings. This seminar will therefore explore the following questions: What is the relationship between evolutionary biology and the Bahá’í teachings on evolution? What is the relationship between findings from neuroscience and the Bahá’í teachings on the mind and soul? How do social forces influence biological phenomena as well as the study of those phenomena? What qualities, attitudes, skills, and habits of mind can we develop in order to find coherence between scientific findings and insights from the Revelation?
In this enquiry-based, participatory, arts and science-centered seminar, participants will explore paths to reconciliation using Bahá'í consultation and Indigenous wisdom. It will build on the learning of previous reading groups and last year's seminar in a cooperative setting in a humble posture of learning and mutual respect. Reconciliation is a process rather than an event, a marathon rather than a sprint. Our consultation will center around Bahá'u'lláh's pivotal principle of the oneness of humanity, the nobility of the human soul, unity in diversity, love, and service to humanity following the guidance and goals of the global Nine Year Plan to release the Faith's society-building powers. Participants may send their questions, art contributions, relevant quotes, and topics for consideration. There are required preparatory materials as well as recommended materials for this seminar. Participant registration signifies a commitment to participating for both days of the seminar.
This seminar may be of interest to undergraduate students (in any discipline) who have taken at least one introductory economics course, graduate students, or others that work with discourses about economic life. It invites participants into a conversation in which the content of introductory economics courses are considered in light of the Bahá’í teachings and learning of the community in its efforts for social transformation. The aim is to encourage coherent thinking as students encounter ideas that are less than fully aligned with the Revelation and with the needs of the age.
What commonalities do the community building goals of the Faith and public libraries share? How does librarianship conceive of human nature, and in what ways do these conceptions align with or pull away from conceptions found in the Writings? How does an historical view of librarianship evolve to meet the current needs of the Faith’s work in building community? How might access to information in a public library play a role in community building? This seminar will explore the library as a social institution, its varied structures and functions, as well as its interaction with the community and with other institutions. Using conceptions of the library found in the writings of the Guardian, and comparing these conceptions to recent literature in librarianship and information studies, participants will elaborate a vision of the role of libraries in community building. Community building is a core value of librarianship and of the Bahá’í Faith. The library is a space where this value can be expressed both through direct Bahá’í educational activities and through contributing to conversations within the profession. Identifying connections between conceptions of community building drawn from librarianship and drawn from the conceptual framework of the Faith will strengthen our ability to make these contributions. Librarians have an opportunity to learn how insights from the Bahá’í Writings and the framework for action can be expressed in the many social spaces afforded through the profession of librarianship. The library is one among many institutions that make up the fabric of a society. Learning to analyze and imagine new directions for these institutions is one aspect of how we can contribute to the transformation of society in a more coherent way.
This seminar is designed for participants engaged directly within the field of mental health or education. Mental health challenges at any stage of life carry with them not only personal suffering and collective grief, but they may also keep hidden the society-building capabilities latent within each person. In North America we are seeing growing rates of depression, self-harm, anxiety, substance use, and other mental health challenges. In a continuation from the last several thematic seminars we will consider: What current conceptual models are used to understand mental health and illness and to inform treatment approaches, and what are their limitations and assumptions? What constitutes a vibrant community with respect to emotional and psychological well-being? What supports do communities need to better foster the emotional and psychological well-being of individuals and groups? What current barriers exist to accessing mental health resources in our communities? Who are our vulnerable and historically underserved demographics within our communities? What support would institutions such as Local Spiritual Assemblies need to better address complex mental health challenges within our communities?
What is an economic system meant to solve for? What would spiritually rooted economic frameworks (for production, commerce, consumption, etc.) look like? What are the guiding principles on which it would be based? How does learning within and beyond the Bahá’í community advance our understanding of the roles of the three protagonists–the individual, the community and institutions–in an economy that serves the needs of humanity in the process of advancing civilization? In what ways does this learning help us redefine concepts of power and justice? For example, how might it be helpful to think of power in terms of collective action, or sacrificial effort? Or to think in terms of contributive justice? Although the Bahá’í teachings do not prescribe an economic system for the future, it is clear that the current system is lamentably defective and will need to evolve in order to better serve the needs of humanity. New patterns of economic life will emerge through processes of learning in action, in which spiritual principle is applied to meet the needs of communities and populations. This seminar aims to reflect on the experience and thought of the cooperative movement and broader endeavors to reshape economic institutions, systems, relationships and processes, and to correlate these with insights from the teachings of the Faith and the experiences of the Bahá’í community.
Participatory action research (PAR) is a methodology gaining traction for its collaborative and emancipatory approach. Rooted in social justice movements, PAR emphasizes involving those most affected by research in knowledge production and action to challenge inequalities. It recognizes the agency and expertise of communities, contesting traditional notions of objectivity and offering pathways for systematic inquiry and action for justice. This seminar explores how PAR principles can cohere with Bahá'í community actions and how both can learn from each other, fostering dialogue between students, scholars, and community members.
This thematic seminar is dedicated to exploring the role of diversity and universal participation in releasing the power of expression in light of the Bahá’í Writings. Communication and expression across modalities, purposes, and peoples will be analyzed. Types of diversity explored will include linguistic, neurological, disability/ability, racial, gender, and types of artistic and cultural diversity. Some perspectives from the field of speech-language pathology will be given in this seminar. However, professionals from all fields are encouraged to participate.
The concepts of oneness and unity are fundamental within the Bahá’í Faith and have tremendous implications for a society plagued by a crisis of identity. In the health field, numerous professionals trained in various disciplines and domains exist, and while the underlying goal of most professionals is to improve the health and wellbeing of people and communities, immense challenges around professional identity inhibit many from engaging in this noble aspiration. Polarizing identities furthered by lack of trust between professional bodies, artificial power dynamics, and dissonance between capacity to serve and politically defined domains of practice are among some of the challenges that health professionals experience. These challenges can hinder willingness to engage in multiple disciplinary work, despite how necessary it has become. In this thematic seminar, we will explore the following two questions: (1) What would a definition for professional identity look like, when informed by the Bahá’í approach to oneness and unity?; and (2) How would this definition guide the development of a practical framework for collaborative practice in the health field?
What are the implications for discourse that the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh is “scientific in its method”? To promote discourse, can we draw on the concept of an evolving conceptual framework in a mode of learning? What role might spiritual virtues play in doing science? How do we engage our academic and professional peers in meaningful discourse on the ‘problems afflicting humanity’? In this seminar we will explore these questions by studying selected passages from the Bahá’í writings on the harmony of science and religion and the concept of the Revelation being ‘scientific in its method’, the need for ‘a humble posture of learning’, and the concept of an evolving conceptual framework for action and scholarship. Participants will be sent material in advance which they will be expected to have read before the start of the seminar. The objective of this seminar is to explore the coherence between science and religion, which provides a counter-balance to materialism and reductionism within academic discourse, within the professions, and in the wider world of thought.
Friday August 1, 2025 2:00pm - 4:45pm MDT Glen 201South building - 2nd level
How does thinking of the whole community enable grass-roots efforts to be more effective? How can learning be more efficiently shared across seemingly different communities? How can teams use systems tools to improve the quality of consultation as we work towards a shared understanding of our reality? Systems science, the “science of the whole”, has a rich history in fields as diverse as public health, organizational management, and supply chains. The history of the Bahá’í faith is full of examples of systems science concepts being used in the worldwide teaching plans. This seminar will explore systems concepts and tools, especially causal loop diagrams, in an interactive manner. Throughout, we will be applying these methods and approaches to the context of the 9-year plan. This seminar is developed for those without any experience in systems science methods.
The discourse on technology and society points to an urgent need for communities to strengthen their capacity to make wise choices about technology. Building on concepts from Reflections on the Advancement of Technology and Society, this seminar will examine some requisite capabilities and institutional arrangements that facilitate this strengthening. Drawing on insights and case studies from the discourse, participants will be challenged to apply the framework for action to questions such as: what social forces reduce technological choice to either personal preference or institutional imposition? How can communities evaluate choices about technology? What institutional arrangements make such choices more or less amenable to revision in light of learning processes at the level of the community? Grappling with these issues in a focused environment will prepare participants to elevate conversations about technology in their home communities and begin a process of building the capacities examined throughout the seminar.
What does it mean to articulate a Bahá'í perspective on technology? How can our conceptual framework (as it relates to technology) be progressively shaped by the principles of the Bahá'í Faith and the experience of our community? The purpose of this seminar will be to examine some central concepts related to technology and the advancement of civilization. Participants will be able to articulate how elements of the conceptual framework apply to questions surrounding technology during humanity’s passage to maturity. We will cultivate the essential capability to evaluate the intellectual foundations of discourses about technology and society. Our exploration will assist us to move beyond a view of technology as “a neutral means to freely-chosen ends” by appreciating the power of technology to shape thought and action. We will critically examine prevalent notions about the proliferation of technology and its relationship to social transformation.
This seminar aims to bring together students and those in the first several years of work in the field of healthcare to examine some underlying assumptions shaping contemporary approaches to health and health care systems. How do these assumptions affect our attitudes and approaches to wellbeing? What insights from the framework of the nine year plan can assist us in re-examining some of these assumptions? Particular topics of focus may include defining health, the role of illness and the human condition, and manifestations of illness at the level of the individual and society. We hope this space will provide an opportunity for reflection as we take our next steps into the field of health care and align our patterns of thought and action with the Revelation. This seminar is intended for undergraduate students, graduate students and those in professional health training (medicine, dentistry, etc), as well as those in the first few years of practice.
