Unitarian Bahais represent a new, contemporary option in spirituality. We are a combination of two traditions: the Bahai and the Unitarian faith. As Bahais, we are followers of Bahaullah, who founded a world religion in 1863. As Unitarians, we are committed to a religious perspective based on reason, investigation, and common sense.

Our faith is inclusive. It strongly rejects intolerance and fanaticism.

The vision of the Bahai faith is pertinent to the modern world. It advocates the independent investigation of truth. You don't have to believe anything! Beliefs and values are personal choices. We affirm the right of personal conscience – you are free to believe, but also to doubt and question.

The Bahai faith teaches the essential unity of religions. All religions – Jewish, Christian, Islamic, Hindu, Buddhist, Zoroastrian, even ancient, cultural religions – are integral aspects of Divine truth. However, none are complete in themselves. Truth is an ongoing discovery.

Bahais acknowledge the oneness of humanity. Bahaullah wrote that "the earth is one country and humankind its citizens." The Bahai religion and its adherents strongly oppose prejudice of all kinds – racial, cultural, religious, or gender-related. Bahaism teaches the equality of men and women and the harmony of science and religion. It advocates universal education, a universal auxiliary language, the abolition of excesses of wealth and poverty, and the establishment of international institutions to secure world peace.

Unitarian Bahais are an independent community of believers. We are not affiliated with mainstream, conservative Bahais, who are represented by the Adminstrative Order of the Baha'i International Community, headquartered in Haifa, Israel. In our view, the Bahai faith, in itself, is not a religious organization. Organizations may be created to promote fellowship and networking among Bahais, but no Bahai organization is an end in itself, and no Bahai organization can legitimately claim to be the sole representative of all followers of Bahaullah.

Unitarian Bahais place strong emphasis on teaching the faith. We hold informal, public meetings called "firesides." These meetings involve discussions of Bahai teachings, world religions, or contemporary issues. Many Unitarian Bahais are members of Unitarian Universalist churches or fellowships. In such cases, firesides are held in these facilities. Otherwise, they may be held in private homes or in other public places.

Unitarian Bahais emphasize the importance of interfaith dialogue and celebrate the great diversity of human spirituality. Rather than view our own religion as something exclusive, we see it as a way to promote appreciation for all religions, tolerance for differences, and the reconciliation of all.

Unitarian Bahais believe that to be a Bahai is "to love the world." We are an inclusive group. We are free to practice Bahai teaching according to our own conscience. In the spirit of Unitarianism, we respect individual interpretations and initiatives.

All are invited to share the Unitarian Bahai vision.

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