Skype video changing the face of a spiritual gathering across oceans

During the last Unity Feast, which I hosted in my home, I was so very happy as we were able to include my nieces and parents in Singapore to join in our Feast via Skype video session (best part was this was totally free and we could see each other and hear everything). My parents and nieces were alone in Singapore, as my older sister (their mom) and their brother were visiting me in California. My other sister, who lives in Oklahoma was also visting me with her two children. We were so excited to have so many relatives connected with us, and we were also able to include other family and friends from other religious denominations into the Baha'i Feast both physically as well as virtually. This made it a very special Feast for me.

The other interesting fact about this Feast was that it was conducted by the children, who prepared the readings and prayers and the adults followed along. How sweet to see the dedication of the children and between this vibrant energy inspiring us all, it was also very inspiring to feel we could share this with others across the globe instantaneously.

On this note, it would be useful to reflect on what Shoghi Effendi, the Guardian of the Baha'i Faith and Abdul Baha, the exampler of the Faith, had to say about global communications so many years ago (in "Baha'i World Order". Two quotes come to mind.

"A mechanism of world inter-communication will be devised, embracing the whole planet, freed from national hindrances and restrictions, and functioning with marvellous swiftness and perfect regularity" Shoghi Effendi

“In cycles gone by, though harmony was established, yet, owing to the absence of means, the unity of all mankind could not have been achieved. Continents remained widely divided, nay even among the peoples of one and the same continent association and interchange of thought were well nigh impossible. Consequently intercourse, understanding and unity amongst all the peoples and kindreds of the earth were unattainable. In this day, however, means of communication have multiplied, and the five continents of the earth have 39 virtually merged into one…. In like manner all the members of the human family, whether peoples or governments, cities or villages, have become increasingly interdependent. For none is self-sufficiency any longer possible, inasmuch as political ties unite all peoples and nations, and the bonds of trade and industry, of agriculture and education, are being strengthened every day. Hence the unity of all mankind can in this day be achieved. Verily this is none other but one of the wonders of this wondrous age, this glorious century. Of this past ages have been deprived, for this century—the century of light—has been endowed with unique and unprecedented glory, power and illumination. Hence the miraculous unfolding of a fresh marvel every day. Eventually it will be seen how bright its candles will burn in the assemblage of man.",,,,Abdu'l Baha

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