The Baha’is of Raleigh
The Baha’is of Raleigh believe that the next and necessary stage in humanity’s evolution is the unification of all nations and peoples in a peaceful and just global civilization – one that welcomes and honors all, benefiting from the unique cultural and religious heritage each brings to the whole. It is the era foretold in the sacred scriptures since ancient times.
The conflict, turbulence, and confusion we are experiencing are features of a transitional period that can be likened to adolescence. Old and outmoded attitudes and habits of thinking are being swept away and new patterns of thought and action are taking root.
Baha’u’llah (1817-1892), the founder of the Baha’i Faith, revealed the vision, principles and practical approaches to lead humanity through its adolescence into maturity. His teachings offer us hopeful new ways to view our place and purpose in the world.
The Baha’is of Raleigh, although currently small in number (about 200), are part of a global Baha’i Community committed to learning how to put Baha’u’llah’s teachings into practice.
What Makes Us Different
Sacred Writings
Like the Torah, Gospel, and Qur’an, Baha’is believe the writings of Baha’u’llah were revealed by God. These sacred texts offer prayers, meditations, ethical teachings, and laws that inspire spiritual growth and transformation.
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No Clergy
In the Baha’i Faith, everyone is responsible for their own spiritual development. There are no clergy or individuals with the authority to interpret scripture. Instead, elected institutions like the Raleigh Spiritual Assembly guide community affairs.
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Baha'i Elections
Every declared believer of 18 years is eligible to participate in the Annual Election of the Raleigh Spiritual Assembly. Each elector votes for 9 persons. To preserve the spiritual character and purpose of Baha’i elections, the practice of nomination and electioneering is avoided. Instead, after prayer and reflection, selection is made from among those the elector believes qualified to serve with consideration given to such factors as age distribution, diversity, and gender.
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Consultation
Baha’is make decisions through consultation—a respectful, non-adversarial process that values all voices. It’s used in families, community groups, and the Raleigh Spiritual Assembly to promote unity and collective wisdom.
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The Training Institute
A global learning system designed to foster spiritual and social growth. In Raleigh, this includes children’s classes, the junior youth program, and adult study groups—connecting reflection with service to humanity.
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Non-Partisan Approach
Baha’is engage in civic life and vote but do not affiliate with political parties. Instead, they collaborate with individuals and organizations to promote unity and social progress.
Raleigh Baha'i Center
Located in the heart of Historic Oakwood in Downtown Raleigh, the Raleigh Baha’i Center is a gathering place for spiritual, educational, and community events. Join us for informal devotions and discussions, open to all faiths, on the 1st and 3rd Sundays from 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM.
Our History
1844
The Bab, forerunner of Baha’u’llah, declares in Persia that He was sent by God to prepare the way for the coming of the Promised One of all ages.
1863
Baha’u’llah announces that He is the Promised One whose mission is to reveal the spirit and teachings needed to bring about word unity and universal peace.
1893
World Parliament of Religions in Chicago - First mention of the Baha’i Faith in America.
1900-1936
A few Baha’i teachers visit Raleigh, including Louis Gregory, black lawyer and champion of race amity, who gives presentations at Shaw University in 1919.
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1936-1943
Dr. Sarah Pereira, Raleigh Baha’i and granddaughter of slaves from the Boylan Plantation, teaches at Shaw University.
1954-1957
Francis Falvey moves from California to Raleigh to teach the Baha’i Faith and establish the first Local Spiritual Assembly.
1912
Abdu’l-Baha, son and successor of Baha’u’llah, travels across America. Gives talk at Howard University, Washington, DC.
1957
The first Local Spiritual Assembly of Raleigh is formed, including nine members of diverse cultures, genders, and backgrounds.
1996
The Raleigh Baha’i Center on 212 Linden Avenue was purchased and the heart of the community was born.
2017
Bicentenary of the Birth of Baha’u’llah celebrated. Governor Roy Cooper issues proclamation.
Today
Together with friends and neighbors of all ages, faiths, and backgrounds, Raleigh Baha’is engage in a process of community building based on the unifying teachings of Baha’u’llah.