BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE — In the garden of a historic building on Haparsim Street in Haifa, 140 people from across the city’s diverse populations and faith communities gathered recently to mark the building’s centennial in a celebration that embodied the spirit of unity that has long characterized this city. Neighbors, artists, civil society representatives, religious leaders, and government officials came together in an atmosphere of friendship that transcended the boundaries sometimes drawn between different segments of society.
In her opening remarks, Ariane Sabet, Deputy Secretary-General of the Bahá’í International Community, highlighted how the gathering was designed not merely as a commemoration but as a living expression of the principles that guide the Bahá’í community’s efforts toward the common good.
David Rutstein, Secretary-General of the Bahá’í International Community, spoke about how such gatherings serve as an invitation to bring “joy and happiness to all,” referring to this quote of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá: “Let your heart burn with loving-kindness for all who may cross your path.”
In his comments to attendees, Shervin Setareh, another Deputy Secretary-General of the Bahá’í International Community, stated: “If you were standing where I am, you would see a microcosm of Haifa. …It is every one of you that makes Haifa so special.”
Mayor Yona Yahav expressed his appreciation for how the Bahá’í community’s commitment to unity has enriched the city’s character, contributing to its well-being. “It fits with the character of the city, with the landscape, and it adds enormous value,” he said.
In interviews with the News Service, participants shared reflections on the gathering, noting how the atmosphere was enhanced with the participation of volunteers serving at the Bahá’í World Centre from many different parts of the world.
Archbishop Yousef Matta of the Melkite Greek Catholic Church described seeing “this beautiful mosaic of people from all over the world” as testimony that “everyone carries one message: the message of life, human dignity, and true peace for every person on this earth.”
Letticia De Torre from the Focolare Movement spoke of the importance of creating social spaces where people can experience peace and love. “Looking at all the people who came today, I saw genuine happiness,” she said. “People had the chance to experience, even briefly, what the world could be like if we truly lived in peace.”
Professor Aliza Shenhar, President of the Haifa History Association, who grew up near the Bahá’í gardens on Mount Carmel, commented on the spirit of the celebration. “It is such a pleasure to see different people, different colors, different points of view in peace,” she said. “It is the most peaceful place in Haifa—here and in Bahá’í holy places.”
The event represented the first in what will be an annual gathering in Haifa, complementing other Bahá’í gatherings that have welcomed people of all backgrounds in Jerusalem and ‘Akká in a shared spirit of kindness and friendship.
