• All Faiths Public Gathering for Prayer and Devotions – August 2, 10, 17, and 24
• Informational Talks — August 13 and 16

"God’s purpose in sending His Prophets unto men is twofold. The first is to liberate the children of men from the darkness of ignorance, and guide them to the light of true understanding. The second is to ensure the peace and tranquility of mankind, and provide all the means by which they can be established." 
                                                                                                                  ~Bahá'u'lláh

The purpose of the Oxnard-Ventura Bahá'í News is to provide information about the Bahá'í Faith and activities of the Bahá'í's to those who wish to learn more or attend Bahá'í devotional gatherings. If you have comments or do not want to receive the Bahá'í News, write PO Box 7344, Oxnard, CA 93031, call 648-1222. No donations requested or accepted.

Informational Talks
A brief talk on a general topic about the Bahá'í Faith is followed by discussion. A time to bring up any question in your heart about spiritual topics.

Wednesday, August 13th, 7:30 p.m.
      Tuman Residence, 984-1222

Saturday, August 16th, 7:30 p.m.
Tuman will discuss "How Can Science and Religion Agree?"
      Quick home, 659-4660

All Faiths Public Gathering for Prayer and Devotions
Persons of all faiths, races, nationalities, and ethnic origins – You are cordially invited to come together for monthly devotional gatherings. A prepared program of quotations, music and prayers will be offered. The program may also include your favorite prayer, in your native language, should you wish to share it with us. Light refreshments and fellowship afterward. (Note: No monetary contributions of any kind will be solicited or accepted.)

Call Dianne Coin for information,
647-6779.

Devotional Gatherings
Come to worship through prayers, readings, and music. If you like, bring some to share. Enjoy fellowship and refreshments afterwards.

Fillmore CommUnity
1st Saturday of the Month, August 2nd
Call Luanne at 524-0683 for details

Ventura CommUnity
2nd Sunday of the Month, August 10th
10:00-1100am

In the Topping Room, EP Foster Library, 651 E. Main St., Downtown Ventura. Enter from the front at the West end.

Camarillo CommUnity
3rd Sunday of the Month, August 17th
Call Renee at 383-3904 for details

Oxnard CommUnity
4th Sunday of the Month, August 24th
10:30 AM. Locations may vary. Call Barbara at 984-4390

The Bahá'í Faith:  A brief History, Part I

"Ye are the fruits of one tree, and the leaves of one branch. Deal ye one with another with the utmost love and harmony, with friendliness and fellowship."—Bahá’u’lláh

The Bahá’í Faith is an independent world religion devoted to building unity among

all people. The Bahá’í Writings proclaim the oneness of the human family and the vital importance of eliminating all prejudices, including those of race, religion, class, and gender. Bahá'í's see unity as an essential prerequisite to the inevitable establishment of world peace.

The Bahá’í Teachings were set forth in the mid-nineteenth century by Bahá’u’lláh, "the Glory of God." Born Mírzá Husayn-‘Alí, an Iranian nobleman, Bahá’u’lláh put aside a life of wealth and prestige in favor of service to humanity. Known for His generosity and wisdom, He was called "Father of the Poor" and spent His days providing comfort to the needy.

In 1844, word of a new religion, the Bábí Faith, reached Bahá'u'lláh. Siyyid ‘Alí-Muhammad, the Báb ("the Gate") announced that He was the new divine Messenger promised by Muhammad. The Báb prepared His followers for another Manifestation of God Who would come after Him and unite all humanity. When Bahá’u’lláh learned of the Báb’s Message, He became a Bábí and began to champion the new faith. 

The Bábís faced intense persecution by the Muslim authorities, and thousands gave their lives as a result of their beliefs. The Báb was executed by a firing squad of 750 soldiers in 1850.

More on the Life of Bahá'u'lláh and the History of the Bahá'í Faith in the next newsletter!

To learn more visit www.us.bahai.org .