Opening
Hi there! My name is… and this is… Some friends and I are starting up a neighbourhood Baha’I childrens class close by and we’re going around to see if there’s any kids or families interested in coming along or finding out more about it.
What’s this class about?
· It’s a class for children aged about 5-11, and are about developing virtues and morals – such as being a good friend, how to be of service to others, how to live in harmony with others.
· Here’s a list of Grade 1 topics that we go over...
· The theme is reinforced with various activities such as: prayer, stories, art, songs, and drama.
· The classes are based around neighborhoods – so that they can also strengthen the neighborhoods, and it’s really great if other people can get involved with the classes – directly, or by helping with other neighbourhood based service activities.
· The classes are based on the teachings from the Bahá’í Faith.
What’s Bahá’í?
· The Bahá’í Faith is a religion that teaches there’s one God, and that all major religions come from that same God, and that humanity is one family. Bahá’í teachings emphasize respect for all religions and cultural backgrounds.
· The Bahá’í Faith also emphasizes principles such as: the equality of men and women, unity in diversity, harmony of science and religion, elimination of prejudice and racism, independent investigation of truth, that world people is inevitable, and that service to others and daily prayer is an integral part of daily life.
· Are you interested in finding out more about the Bahá’í Faith?
Why are you offering this class?
· This kind of spiritual and moral education is important for everyone. Especially in childhood – as that’s when the foundation of our personality is established.
· The Bahá’í Faith emphasizes contributing to the wellbeing of humanity. And this is one of the most valuable we – or anyone – can do with their time.
· There’s a lot of negative societal influences around us – and this is an important way that the spiritual wellbeing and inherent nobility of the children in our community can be upheld.
· We enjoy working with kids – and collaborating with people.
Religious education?
· The classes are based on the teachings from the Bahá’í Faith – which we believe everyone can benefit from – Bahá’í or not. Even though the children learn the basic principles, teachings and basic beliefs of the Bahá’í Faith, the emphasis is on learning to think and to reflect and to apply spiritual laws to our individual lives.
Cost?
No cost, but we do ask parents, if they’re able to contribute some food towards the refreshments. The cost of the class, either comes out of pocket, or we ask the local Bahá’í Community to help cover the cost of the facilities.
Personnel?
The classes are run by some youth/young adults from the Rototuna area – with support from friends and family. There are two or more teachers there, one of whom is always an adult. Parents are welcome to come along.