Adam Bauer of the Local Spiritual Assembly of Bahá’ís of Juneau. (Courtesy photo)

Adam Bauer of the Local Spiritual Assembly of Bahá’ís of Juneau. (Courtesy photo)

Living and Growing: Gathering to share ‘Faith in the Future’

First, I would like to take a moment to acknowledge that we are on the traditional territory of the Áakʼw Ḵwáan, the original inhabitants of Lingít Aaní. We pay respect to the Áakʼw Ḵwáan elders, both past and present, and honor the spiritual wisdom they bring to our society today.

In times of change, faith offers a steady light that guides us toward meaningful action. The timeless words, “Thy will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven,” remind us of the power and promise of collective aspiration. Today, the Bahá’í Faith in Juneau is proud to announce the “Faith in the Future” conference, a two-day gathering set to take place on March 29–30, 2025, in Anchorage. This conference is designed as a platform for people of all faiths to come together, share ideas, and explore practical ways to shape a better tomorrow through everyday acts of service and community building.

The theme “Faith in the Future” reflects the belief that our daily commitments — no matter how small — can help manifest the ideals expressed in our sacred prayers. The conference is rooted in the understanding that faith is not a passive state. but an active call to live out our highest values. Rather than focusing on external challenges, the event emphasizes the transformative potential of individual and communal actions. By embracing the principle behind “Thy will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven,” participants are encouraged to view their everyday lives as opportunities to contribute to a future built on justice, compassion and unity. While the Bahá’í community hosts this event its message is intended for everyone, regardless of religious background, and invites all people to join in the creative process of community renewal.

The conference will span two days, offering a well-rounded agenda that includes a variety of sessions designed to inspire and engage. Attendees can expect a blend of keynote addresses, discussions, and interactive workshops that explore the intersection of faith, community, and practical action. Participants will be encouraged to share their own experiences and insights, thereby enriching the conversation and reinforcing the belief that positive change begins with each individual’s commitment.

At its heart, the “Faith in the Future” conference is a call to action. It underscores the idea that every person’s contribution — whether through volunteer work, community organizing, or simply living according to ethical principles — plays an essential role in shaping our shared future. This event reaffirms that the future is not a distant, abstract concept, but is built moment by moment, through the collective efforts of people who are dedicated to justice, compassion, and unity. It is a reminder that every action matters, and that working together, people of faith can create a ripple effect that reaches far beyond individual communities.

We invite all interested community members to register for the “Faith in the Future” conference and join us in Anchorage. For more information about registration, session details, and the full conference schedule, please visit www.akbahai.org This gathering is free and open to everyone who shares a commitment to creating a better future through active, faith-inspired service.

In conclusion, the “Faith in the Future” conference is more than an event — it is a movement toward a collective future where the ideals of our shared prayer are realized in every community. By coming together, discussing practical ways to foster positive change, and committing to everyday actions that reflect our highest values, we can build a future that mirrors the beauty and harmony of our spiritual aspirations. Join us in this journey of faith and action, and help turn the vision of “Thy will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven” into a living reality for all.

For further details and to become involved with our ongoing community initiatives, please visit our website www.juneau.earth. Together, we can make a lasting impact — one act of faith at a time.

• Adam Bauer is the secretary for the Juneau Bahá’í Local Spiritual Assembly. “Living and Growing” is a weekly column written by different authors and submitted by local clergy and spiritual leaders. It appears every Saturday on the Juneau Empire’s Faith page.

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