Electoral Unit 139 • 183 B.E.
Unit Convention brings the friends of the electoral unit together in prayer, unites them in the sacred act of election, and opens the way for consultation whose fruits continue throughout the year.
Convention opens in an atmosphere of prayer, allowing the friends to turn their hearts together before anything else is undertaken. The warmth of fellowship among friends from neighbouring communities is itself part of the purpose of the day.
“In some areas these meetings have been very fruitful and have helped to foster collaboration among the believers in the unit.”
Those present prayerfully choose one delegate to represent the electoral unit at National Convention. Bahá’í elections are carried out quietly, by secret ballot, without nominations, campaigning, or discussion of personalities.
“It is important to remember, however, that the delegate to be elected represents the entire unit.”
Consultation allows the friends to share experience and insight so that understanding grows and action becomes more effective. Every voice contributes, and no single view is the whole picture.
“In addition to the voting, the opportunity for consultation with the delegates is important.”
Unit Convention is a channel of communication between our communities and the national Bahá’í community. Delegates from across the country gather to elect the National Spiritual Assembly and consult on the progress of the Faith.
“It is the hope of the Universal House of Justice that the implementation of these instructions this year and thereafter will promote Bahá’í solidarity, broaden the basis of representation at the National Conventions and that thereby the work of the Faith in each country will be characterized by greater efficiency and enhanced harmony.”
After National Convention, the delegate shares with the friends of the unit an account of what was heard, learned, and encouraged.
“While one of the responsibilities of a delegate is to report back to the believers in the unit he or she represents and to acquaint them with an account of the accomplishments, decisions, and plans of their national community, there is no prescribed method by which this duty should be discharged.”
A continuing process
Prepare and reflect before Unit Convention
Attend Unit Convention
Prayerfully elect the delegate
Consult together at Unit Convention
The delegate participates in National Convention and the election of the National Spiritual Assembly
The delegate reports back to the electoral unit
Our communities and cluster reflect on what was shared
Consider how those insights may inform consultation and action locally
Continue serving and learning throughout the year
Prepare for the next Unit Convention
Unit Convention is not simply a single annual event. It is part of an ongoing process of prayer, election, consultation, communication, reflection, service, and learning.
Explanatory text on this website has been prepared locally. Quotations are identified separately and should be consulted in their original context.