Firesides
A relaxed gathering, often in someone's home, to explore the Bahá'í teachings with anyone curious — a space for conversation and real questions.
Firesides are explicitly for friends of every background. Bring your honest questions.
A fireside is a space where anyone curious about the Bahá'í teachings is welcome to come, listen, ask questions, and learn together.
It's typically informal and the heart of the evening is honest conversation. There is no script and no pressure.
What to expect
Arrival and conversation
Coffee or tea, dessert, and unhurried conversation as people gather.
A theme, a prayer, a talk
The host or a friend may share a short talk on a Bahá'í teaching — the oneness of religion, the harmony of science and faith, the equality of women and men, the elimination of prejudice — followed by open questions and discussion.
Real conversation
The heart of a fireside: any question, any tradition, in a spirit of friendship. People often stay long after the official close.
Who comes
- Bahá'ís and the friends, colleagues and neighbours they have personally invited.
- People at every stage of curiosity — first-timers, regulars, sceptics, scholars.
- Adults; sometimes youth and families.
Frequently asked questions
How is a fireside different from a devotional?+
A devotional is centred on prayer and readings; a fireside is centred on conversation about the Bahá'í teachings. Many firesides include a short prayer at the start, but the heart of the evening is discussion.
Ask about other gatherings
Not everything is posted here. Send a note and someone from the local community team will get back to you with up-to-date information about firesides near you.
Other community building activities
Devotional
A reverent space where neighbours of every background read sacred writings, share music, and reflect together.
Read the guide →
Reflection meeting
Periodic neighbourhood gatherings where friends look back on what they've learned, celebrate small victories, and plan what to do next.
Read the guide →
Study circle
A group that examines materials designed for youth and adults, intended to be used in a systematic effort to enhance service in their communities.
Read the guide →