An upcoming regional Bahá’í convention in Samoa is expected to further bring together Pacific nations to continue work toward shared goals of unity, development and peace.

In a gathering held earlier this week in Apia, Bahá’í leaders and representatives from across the Pacific used it to focus on community transformation and unity as part of a global development plan now described as being at a “critical juncture.”

It was part of preparations for the Pacific Regional Institutional Convention involving delegates from eleven countries.

Speaking at the gathering, Counsellor Auimatagi Bob Ale said the Nine-Year Plan guiding Bahá’í efforts worldwide is at a “critical juncture.” 

He said the plan envisions communities becoming “vibrant and fortified places of hope and peace in a world in dire need of unity.” He also reflected on the historical roots of the Bahá’í Faith in Samoa and the arrival of early pioneers whose work helped establish the community across the islands.

Dr Amir Saberin of the International Teaching Centre in Haifa, Israel, told participants he appreciated the welcome and described Samoa as the “sacred heart – Sā-Moa – of the Pacific.” He said similar gatherings are taking place globally as communities assess progress midway through the Nine-Year Plan and prepare for its next phase, focusing on “how far we have come, where we are now, and what we need to do next.”

He said the plan emphasises collective transformation, including education programmes for children and youth, devotional gatherings, and service initiatives. He added that the work is carried out “with society, not for society,” encouraging broader participation with families, neighbours and local communities.

Participants were encouraged to continue creating spaces for reflection and dialogue in homes and neighbourhoods as part of efforts grounded in service, cooperation and spiritual values. 

The gathering ended with encouragement from international representatives, who conveyed confidence from the Universal House of Justice, the Bahá’í Faith’s global governing body, in the ability of local communities to contribute to social change.