Prayer and Devotional Meetings
Posted: 10/07/09
"O God! Refresh and gladden my spirit. Purify my heart. Illumine my powers. I lay all my affairs in Thy hand. Thou art my Guide and my Refuge." —'Abdu'l-Baha
Collective worship is essential to the spirit of the community. Just as the individual’s spiritual journey begins with prayer and a connection to the Creator, collective worship is the foundation for the community’s development and progress. When we come together to worship with our friends and family, prayer becomes part of the fabric of our lives, not just a special occasion.
Prayer builds unity among the members of the community. We become more creative in solving our problems. It lifts our conversations and consultations to a higher level. The purpose of the Baha’i Faith is to rebuild society, to transform the life of humanity. Community prayer is the foundation of that process.
Devotional gatherings are similar to a church service, but also different. In the Baha’i Faith, there is no clergy. Everyone is a participant. We hold devotional gatherings in our homes and neighborhoods. They take many forms. Some are spontaneous, others are carefully planned. Some are energetic and exuberant, others are quiet and reflective. The element that unites them all is a spirit of reverence and respect.
Baha’is in cities and villages around the world hold devotional gatherings and are experiencing renewed strength and vigor in their communities. We invite you to join us and share in the joy that comes from worshiping together. Weekly prayer meetings are held at the Portland Baha’i Center and the Beaverton Baha’i Center on Sunday mornings. We also hold neighborhood devotional gatherings around the metro area. Call us at 1-800-228-6583 or contact us for more information about prayer meetings near you.
Prayer “O God! Refresh and gladden my spirit”
O God! Refresh and gladden my spirit. Purify my heart. Illumine my powers. I lay all my affairs in Thy hand. Thou art my Guide and my Refuge. I will no longer be sorrowful and grieved; I will be a happy and joyful being. O God! I will no longer be full of anxiety, nor will I let trouble harass me. I will not dwell on the unpleasant things of life.
O God! Thou art more friend to me than I am to myself. I dedicate myself to Thee, O Lord.
— ‘Abdu’l-Baha
