An Example of Bahá’í Teachings Through a Community Dinner

Moujan Vahdat and his family hosting community dinner at Pelham Grand

The purpose of the community dinner was so that Mr. Vahdat could introduce himself to those living at the Pelham Grand and residents of Pelham Bay. Along with a very good turnout from the Pelham Grand and from the community, there was a wide array of food.

Brenda, Pelham Grand resident

As a real estate mogul, Mr. Vahdat is known for being very involved in programs to assist those in need of help. He is a noted, along with his relatives, for working on behalf of many communities to obtain loans for worthy projects. He is also a member of the Bahá’í Faith.

Bahá’í is a monotheistic religion which emphasizes the spiritual unity of all humankind. Followers believe that all major religions have the same spiritual source and come from the same God, along with the belief that all humans have been created equal. There is a sense of unity in diversity where diversity of race and culture are seen as worthy of appreciation and acceptance. According to the Bahá’í Faith’s teachings, the human purpose is to learn to know and to love God through methods such as prayer, reflection and and being of service to humanity.

Bahá’í teachings and doctrine are: the unity of God and that there is only one God who is the source of all creation.

“This was sponsored by our local spiritual assembly of Long Island and we try to serve the community as much as we can. We also have a Bahá’í center that serves the community.” said Bushra Vahid, Moujon’s sister. She continued, “We don’t believe in edifices such as churches or clergies, and we can pray anywhere. But we do have an Assembly that serves the needs of the community and is elected by the members of the community.”

Johan, Pelham Grand Resident

Bahá’í originated in Iran as an independent religion that belongs in the Abrahamic line of religions. When asked about persecution in Iran and other parts of the world, Bushra explained, “Persecution in Iran is still going on and it is really terrible. Those of us who practice Bahá’í can be thrown in jail simply for our beliefs. Children are discriminated against by not being allowed to enter school. People will not get pensions or they are prevented from getting licenses to open stores. The leaders of Iran make life as difficult as possible.”

“But, we persevere. We stay. We serve the community. We only want to serve mankind and its communities, nothing more. We have no hierarchy or clergy. We are all equal to each other.” said Bushra.

One of the residents at the Pelham Grand raved about the dinner and thanked Mr. Vahdat saying, “The people were sweet and the food was delightful.”

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