FOR the members of the Baha'i Faith in Londonderry November 12 was one of the most important days of the year. It was on this date in 1817 that the Founder of their religion was born.
Baha'u'llah, a title meaning "Glory of God" was born into a wealthy and noble family in Persia, and seemed set for a glittering career. But instead he devoted himself from an early age to helping the poor and needy. He saw how vital social justice an
d religious reform were, but the Persian authorities became fearful of his influence at a time when they were trying to hold back change in their country. Baha'u'llah was sent into exile.
He spent the last forty years of his earthly life as an exile, and often as a prisoner, but it was during these years that he gained an ever increasing following throughout the Middle East. His teachings were then gradually spread worldwide. He passed away in 1892, and his shrine near Acre, in the Holy Land, is now a beautiful place of pilgrimage visited by people from all over the world.
"We see this anniversary as a specially happy time," said local Baha'i Elizabeth Palin, "Not just to remember the birth of Baha'u'llah, who we believe is God's Messenger for today, but to give thanks for his life and teachings."
"Personally speaking this year's celebration was even more special as I have just returned from a pilgrimage to the Holy Land where I visited the Shrine of Baha'u'llah and other places associated with our Faith."
