BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE — Representatives of Bahá’í communities from nations and regions around the world have arrived in Haifa for a historic gathering at the Bahá’í World Centre to commemorate the ascension of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Events this week will culminate in an observance in the early hours of Saturday marking the night, 100 years ago, when ‘Abdu’l-Bahá passed away.

The gathering, representing a cross-section of humanity, is a reflection of the following words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá: “The diversity in the human family should be the cause of love and harmony, as it is in music where many different notes blend together in the making of a perfect chord.”

The images below capture a few moments from the arrival of representatives from around the world and interactions among them over the last few days.

With their hearts and thoughts turned toward ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the representatives have arrived in the Holy Land from every corner of the world to honor Him in the very land where He passed away.

Participants arriving at the Pilgrim Reception Centre in Haifa, located in the vicinity of the Shrine of the Báb.

Attendees arriving in Bahjí, the site of the Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh.

Upon their arrival at the visitor’s center in Bahjí, participants attend an orientation program that provides them with information about the days ahead.

In an atmosphere of love, unity, and devotion, attendees have been preparing themselves spiritually for their first visit to the Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh.

A group of participants approaching the Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh, the holiest spot on earth for Bahá’ís.

Attendees have been visiting this sacred site in groups since their arrival in the Holy Land.

Attendees outside the Haifa Pilgrim House prepare for their first visit to the Shrine of the Báb. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá hosted many gatherings with pilgrims and members of the local community in this building.

Two participants viewing a diagram (close-up on the right) depicting the arrangement of the rooms and doors to the Shrine of the Báb.

Participants approaching the Shrine of the Báb, which was constructed under ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s direction and supervision. It is at this sacred spot where ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s earthly remains were interred upon His passing.

A group of participants in the gardens surrounding the Shrine of the Báb.

Participants visiting the Shrine of the Báb in the evening.

Participants are spending quiet moments in the environs of the Shrine of the Báb, reflecting on the significance of the life of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and His call for universal peace.