Tongan members of the Baha’i Faith in New Zealand celebrated the 200th anniversary of the birth of Baha’u’llah on October 28.
Baha’is around the world also celebrated the birth on October 21-22.
Bahá’u’lláh, regarded as the founder of the Bahai’i faith, was born in Tehran, the capital of Iran, in 1817.
At the same time devotees celebrate the birthday of his predecessor, Al Bab (The Gate), who was born in 1819.
Keynote speakers at the Tongan celebrations included Sione Tu’itahi, Dr Viliami Tūtone, and Mēlini Taufalele.
The celebrations featured ‘The Life of Baha’u’llah, Religion Renewed, The Revelation of Baha’u’llah, and Baha’u’llah’s Teaching in Action.’
People attending the function were told that all religions are one, God is One and that mankind is one family.
The need for a vibrant, peaceful and harmony society was emphasised.
Tau’olunga (group dancing) and Sōkē ( the version of sailing expedition) were performed during the celebratory meal.
The Baha’i faith was first established in Tonga in the 1950s.
It has been estimated that its adherants make up 3.5% of the population.
The main points
- Baha’is in Tonga celebrated the 200th anniversary of the birth of Baha’u’llah on October 28.
- Keynote speakers at the Tongan celebrations included Sione Tu’itahi, Dr Viliami Tūtone, and Mēlini Taufalele.
- The Baha’i faith was first established in Tonga in the 1950s.
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