On May 25-27, 2018 Baha’is gathered in Belmopan for their 52nd Annual National Convention. The purpose of the gathering was two-fold: One was to elect the members of the coming year’s National Spiritual Assembly, and the other was to consult on plans for the coming year. As usual, the gathering was filled with spirit and love and allowed the friends from Corozal to Punta Gorda an opportunity to be together in loving fellowship.
In the Baha’i election, there is absolutely no discussion of any names or individuals, no nominations, nor any attempt to create factions. 19 delegates come together from around the country to assure that district is represented in this group. The procedure for election is unique: Representative delegates gather in a spirit of reverence and prayer. They consider the qualities “of unquestioned loyalty, of selfless devotion, of a well-trained mind, of recognized ability and mature experience” and each voter writes the names of nine people whom prayer and reflection have inspired them to vote for. This same procedure is used for every Baha’i election: local, national, and international. Since there is no clergy, this Assembly serves as counsel and organizer for the Baha’i community.
DELEGATES FROM EACH DISTRICT
CONSULTATION
VOTING
ELECTED NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY
CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCES
