The members of the Baha'i Communities of Sutherland and Georges River are joining in worldwide celebrations marking the 200th anniversary of the birth of the Bab, the Herald of the Baha'i Faith.
The festivities will culminate in thousands of celebrations taking place in Australia and throughout the world at the end of October.
The celebrations are being held to mark the birth of the Bab in 1819 who revitalised religious teachings, calling for spiritual and moral renewal, including improving the status of women and the situation of the poor.
He gained thousands of followers before being put to death in 1850.
Baha'i local spokesperson Barbara Koppe said the fundamental principles of the Baha'i Faith are the oneness of humanity, the oneness of religion, the equality of women and men, the harmony of religion and science, the need for universal compulsory education and a universal auxiliary language, the independent investigation of truth and the elminiation of extremes of wealth and poverty.
"The transformative power of the teachings of the Bab is reflected in our activities, which seek to contribute towards a vibrant and inclusive community based on the principle of the oneness of humanity," Barbara said.
The public are invited to the local celebrations at the Sutherland Baha'i Centre, 32 Jacaranda Road Caringbah, at 3pm on Saturday, October 26.
This will be a Festival of Unity with readings from religious scriptures, along with live music and refreshments.
Everyone is invited to join in their celebrations.
Details:sutherland@nsw.bahai.org.au or 0412547726 web: www.bahai.org.au.