“Baha’i Faith- Modern Perspectives” is an introductory presentation series on a diverse range of topics related to the Baha’i teachings, hosted by the Parhami family.
The presentations are on Zoom on Saturday at 12noon EST. You can join them live at this link, or watch the archived presentations on youtube.
Upcoming Presentation
“A Comparison between the Bab and Jesus Christ“
Mr Hillary Chapman, Saturday July 9th, 2022
Hilary Chapman is a writer, guitarist, and songwriter who currently lives in Washington DC. He is the author of several books, short stories, and songs related to the early figures of the Baha’i Faith. Hilary graduated from Haverford College with a BA in History and hold a Masters Degree from the University of Pennsylvania. He is primarily worked as an educator in various areas.
“Is World Order Necessary?“
Dr. Guiseppe Robiati, Saturday May 14th, 2022
Dr Robiati has spent his life combining his business activities with an education and spiritual role which aims to bring of a new world order into business. He has been a true leader in how businesses need to adjust their ethics for a global peaceful world. Originally from a Catholic background, he became a Baha’i at age 16 and has served in many capacities, including as one of the founders of the European Baha’i Business Forum.
“Mysticism for the Modern Age“
Mr John Wiegley, April 2022
Mr. John Wiegley is a computer scientist and systems programmer who has been working in industry for the last 34 years, while having studied philosophy at George Mason University. Throughout that time he has been interested in all mystical practices, while always seeking to apply these intangible truths to everyday problems. Since his life encompasses both formal logic and the power of devotion, it has been an interesting journey to find the middle way.
“The Baha’i Faith: A New Vision for Schools“
Dr. Teresa Langness, April 2022
Dr Langness is an author/educator who developed the global educational model “Full Circle Learning” and leads the non-profit organization by the same name. She has written over 50 books in multiple genres and served in professional and volunteer capacities in the fields of education, communications, the environment, human relations, and religion. She has been a Baha’i for over 35 years.
“How Baha’u’llah is the Return of Christ“
Mr. Jeremy Fox, March 2022
Baha’u’llah’s claim to be the return of Christ makes everyone take notice, as it tells us the significance of His teachings. In this talk, Mr Jeremy Fox explore this aspect of His claim.
Mr Fox was born in Cornwall, and became a Baha’i as 1st year undergraduate in Cambridge. He and his wife pioneered to Swansea, S. Wales, then to the Isle of Mull in the Hebrides, Scotland. They then lives in the Basque region of France where he stayed for 20 years. He later he returned to Scotland. Following up from his Christian background, Jeremy translated Baha’u’llah’s Tablet to the Christians (Lawh-i-Aqdas) into French and wrote a commentary on it. Later he produced an English version. There is also an Amazon Kindle version under the title “Reflections on Baha’u’llah’s Letter to the Christians.”
“Reflections on the Long Healing Prayer“
Dr. John Woodall, April 2nd 2022
This talk explores the nature of healing and the powers of the Manifestation of God in that healing and our relationship to Him. Dr. Woodall is a psychiatrist, formerly on the faculty of Harvard Medical School with special expertise in post-traumatic stress disorder, resilience and treatment resistant depression. He was Director of the State Department refugee relief effort in the Balkans after the war there, and the Convener of the “Resilient Responses to Social Crisis Working Group” at Harvard University. In New York City, he developed and implemented a citywide resilience-building program for children after 9/11 that was also implemented in New Orleans and Mississippi after Hurricane Katrina and in northern Uganda. He is Medical Director of Synergy Health in Newtown where he specializes in brain health, treatment resistant depression and resilience.
“The Future of Democracy, a Baha’i Perspective“
Dr. Augusto Lopez-Carlos, April 2022
Dr Lopez-Carlos is currently the Chair of the Global Governance Forum, an organization committed to fostering international cooperation in the search for solutions to global problems. He is a distinguished economist with over 30 years experience with international organizations, including serving as chief economist for the World Bank. His latest books are “Equality for Women = Prosperity for All” (2018), and “Global Governance and the Emergence of Global Institutions for the 21st Century” (2020).
Previous Presentations
“The Historical Significance of Tahirih“
Dr. Roya Akhavan, April 2022
Tahirih was a distinguished Persian woman and one of the earliest followers of the Baha’i Faith. Her spiritual depth, bravery, and heroism under persecution has been an inspiration for women all over the world. In this talk, Dr. Roya Akhavan discusses her historical significance. Dr Akhavan serves as Professor and Director of Graduate Studies at the Department of Mass Communication, St. Cloud State University in Minnesota. Her research focuses on international affairs and peace studies
“Principles of Consultation and Discourse from a Baha’i Perspective“
Ms Fiona Young, March 2022
Fiona Young is UK Lawyer and head of the employment team and human resources at the Global law firm Ince’s Gilbraltar office. She has a diploma in International Commercial Dispute Resolution. Her work focuses on conflict resolution in the work place where she is passionate about helping team improve communication and resolve conflicts amicably and with respect and dignity.
“The Significance of Humanity’s Spiritual Maturity“
James Elijio, March 2022
Mr James Elijio is an educator, researcher, writer, and editor of scientific texts. Originally from Belize, he is deeply committed to the progress of the Garifuna people and the Afro-Carribean culture of Belize and other Caribbean nations. A prolific writer, James has drafted over 40 books and thousands of poems. Among his published books are “We Are With You at All Times,’’ published by George Ronald of England and “Man Is My Mystery,’’ published by the Baha’i Publishing Trust of India. James’ predominant interests lie in capacity-building, promoting holistic leadership, education, and community development; enhancing intellectual, spiritual, ethical and socio-economic development at the personal, institutional, and community level. He presently lives in Lithuania with his wife and two daughters.
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“The Search for the Promised One During the 19th Century“
Carolyn Sparey Fox, March 2022
Carolyn Sparey Fox is a professional musician living and working the United Kingdom, having trained at the Royal Academy of Music in London. Since becoming a Baha’i in 1992, Carolyn has published several books on the extraordinary period of the 19th century in which many groups anticipated the return of Christ. Known as “adventism”, it spawned several modern religious sects of Christianity. Carolyn’s books have told the stories of these movements from the perspective of one remarkable truth- Christ actually did return in Baha’u’llah and very few recognized him.
“The Search for Meaning and Purpose in the Universe“
Dr Steven Phelps, February 2022
Dr Steven Phelps holds a PhD in Physics from Princeton and an undergraduate degree from Stanford University. He also served at the Baha’i World Center where he also learned to read the Baha’i Writings in the original languages of Persian and Arabic. He lectures frequently on the intersection of science and religion.
“Baha’i Family Life and Early Childhood Education“
Ms Erica Toussant-Brock, February 2021
Suzanne Alexander is a relationship, family, and marriage educator who often addresses these issues from a Baha’i perspective. Susanne leads a Bahá’í-inspired company called Marriage Transformation®. She works with individual, couple, and group clients; offers online courses; and authors books. You can access her services at: www.marriagetransformation.com; www.transformationlearningcenter.com; and www.bahaimarriage.net.
“Baha’i Family Life and Early Childhood Education“
Ms Erica Toussant-Brock, February 2021
In this presentation, Ms Erica Toussaint-Brock highlights distinctive characteristics of Baha’i family life and the importance placed on childhood education. Ms Toussaint-Brock is a former member of the National governing body of the US Baha’i community. She has similarly served as an Auxiliary Board Member and currently is on the Regional Council of the Baha’is of the Northwestern States. She holds a degree in Psychology and is the grand-daughter of Howard Colby Ives, who wrote a memoir of his interactions with ‘Abdu’l-Baha’.
“One Common Faith“
Shahin Sobhani, January 2021
In this important and clear talk, Shahin Sobhani discusses the Baha’i document “One Common Faith” and how it applies to our conflict-scarred world. Shahin is in the business world as the Managing Director of BTS Canada, focused on strategy implementation. He has also was a main producer of 239days.com, a wonderful social media documentary about ‘Abdu’l-Baha’ and OneCommonFaith.net.
“Finding Your True Self“
Dr Deborah Vance, January 2021
In this talk, Dr Deborah Vance explores the question of how we can find our true selves. Dr Vance has PhD from Howard University on Inter-cultural Communication and wrote her PhD on how Baha’is form a united identity. She has published over 100 articles on various aspects of communication and media. She also brings a wealth of experience from other artistic and business endeavors.
“Who was Shoghi Effendi?“
Mrs Sharon O’toole and Mr Earl Redman, January 2021
Shoghi Effendi plays a unique and significant role in the Baha’i Faith, as the leader of the Baha’i community for 36 years before the election of the Universal House of Justice. He uniquely blended knowledge and facility in both eastern and western culture, as reflected in his standard-bearing translation of the Baha’i Writings into English and his building of the Baha’i administrative system around the world. In this talk, Mrs O’toole and Mr Redman introduce the person and wok of Shoghi Effendi. Sharon has worked on peace-making projects, particularly in Ireland, and Earl is an author of several books on ‘Abdu’l-Baha’ and Shoghi Effendi.
“Asiyih Khanum- The Wife of Baha’u’llah and ‘Abdu’l-Baha’s Mother“
Baharieh Rouhani Maani, January 2021
Throughout nearly all of Baha’u’llah’s exile and imprisonment, He was accompanied by his wife- Asiyih Khanum. She was also the mother of ‘Abdu’l-Baha’. But who was she and what was she like? In this talk, Ms Maani brings her extensive knowledge and research into the history of women in the Baha’i Faith to tell us more about this most significant person. Ms Maani has had a life of service to the Baha’i Faith, originally from Iran, then Kenya, and several decades at the Baha’i World Center. She is the author of the book- “Leaves of the Twin Divine Trees- An in-depth Study of the Women Closely Related to the Bab and Baha’u’llah”.
“When will Christ return?“
Dr Ghaneh Fananapazir, December 2021
In this talk, Dr Fananapazir brings his deep knowledge of the Bible to address Baha’u’llah’s claim to be the return of Christ. Dr Fananapazir was raised in Scotland and trained in medicine in the US. He is now a Professor of Radiology at the Mayo Clinic and splits his time between California and Arizona. He is married with two children.
“Are men and women really equal? “
Dr Haideh Sabet, December 2021
Dr Haideh Sabet is a praciticing neurologist in the Alexandria, VA area, a suburb of Washington DC. She is also an assistant professor of neurology at Georgetown University Medical Center. In this talk, she address the Baha’i teaching of the equality of men and women.
“How Baha’u’llah Fulfilled Native American/Indigenous Prophecies“
Mr Roman Orona, December 2021
Roman Orona is a Baha’i and a Native American performer, producer, director and owner of iamHUMAN Media- a non profit that develops programs to unite humanity through the arts. Roman was awarded the Best Male Vocalist award from the Native American Music Awards for his album “Circling Spirits”. He hosts the weekly podcast “The Indigenous Cafe Podcast”, playing indigenous music and discussing virtues from around the world.
“Institutional Requirements for Global Governance- A
Baha’i Perspective”
Dr Andy Tamas, Saturday November 27th 2021 at 12 noon
Dr Andy Tamas is a governance and organizational change specialist with a focus on fragile and conflict affected states. He has worked for decades on public sector reform and governance issues in places like Afghanistan, Iraq, and Yemen. His work came from his a prayer he had on pilgrimage to Baha’u’llah’s shrine, to pioneer professionally into new areas of endeavor, working to support the efforts to strengthen governance in trouble states. He holds a doctorate in governance from University College Dublin, Ireland.
“How the Book of Genesis Reveals the Plan of God“
Mr Wade Fransson, Saturday November 20th 2021 at 12 noon
Wade Fransson came to the Baha’i’ Faith from a strong Christian background. Starting as a layperson and then a minister for the Worldwide Church of God, he studied the Bible deeply. Life experiences led him resign as a minister in 1995 and become a teacher. He then established a successful business in the corporate world and was ultimately awarded a lifetime achievement award while working with poor communities in India. Along the way, he discovered the Baha’i Faith. In this presentation, he explores the Book of Genesis from the perspective gained from Baha’u’llah’s Revelation.
“Who was the Bab and what was His mission?”
By Mr Edward Price, November 2021
Edward Price is a former atheist of Jewish background who became a Baha’i 48 years ago. He was a co-writer and producer for a film on the
Bab entitled, “The Gate, Dawn of the Baha’i Faith”, which appeared on network television and other venues. He has a degree in psychology and education and has written a series of book on Baha’i principles and ideas.
“The Baha’i Faith- Similarities and Differences”
By Todd Lawon, November 2021
Dr. Todd Lawson is Professor Emeritus of Islamic Thought, University of Toronto. He has been a Bahá’í since 1968. He was awarded the distinguished book award by the Association for Baha’i studies for his study of the Qayyúmu’l-Asmá’, Gnostic apocalypse and Islam (Routledge 2012). Todd has published numerous articles and books on the relationship between the Bahá’í Faith and Islam, Qur’an Commentary, Sufism and Shi’ism. His most recent book is, Being Human: Bahai Perspectives on Islam, Modernity and Peace. In this talk, Dr. Lawson discusses the importance of Islam and its relationship to the Bahá’í Faith.
“Was Muhammad the Seal of the Prophets?”
By Dr Lameh Fananapazir, October 2021
Dr Fananapazir is a cardiologist with a long and distinguished career studying the genetics of inherited cardiac disease, including heading the NIH Section on Inherited Heart Disease. He is also an expert on comparative religion and published books on both Islam and the Baha’i Faith. A major barrier for Muslims in accepting Baha’u’llah is the idea that the Prophet Muhammad was the last Prophet and none will come after him. In this talk, Dr Fananapazir addresses this issue.
“‘Abdu’l Baha’s influence on the progress of society”
Ms Angelina Allen, Saturday Oct 23rd at 12 noon
Angelina Diliberto Allen was raised in a very large Baha’i family whose connections to the Baha’i Faith date back to ‘Abdu’l-Baha’s visit to California in 1912. She has served the Faith in several countries and taught English in high school for over 30 years. Her two books, one in 2019 and the other in 2021, focus on Baha’i history. Her latest- “Moon Set Over Haifa”- tells the story of the 6 western Baha’is present the night ‘Abdu’l-Baha’ passed. As Baha’is celebrate the 100th anniversary of that event this fall, her talk on ‘Abdu’l-Baha’ and his extraordinary influence is timely.
“What do Baha’i public schools look like? Overcoming dichotomy and divergence”
Dr Matt Giani, Saturday Oct 9th at 12 noon
Dr Matt Giani is a Baha’i from Austin TX who studies and teaches about education. He is the Director of Research and Data Science and Assistant Professor at the Univ of Texas Austin. His research focuses on improving social mobility and reducing inequalities in K12 and higher education, particularly supporting kids from lower socio-economic backgrounds. In this talk, he explains what happens if we apply Baha’i principles to public schools.
“The power of positive thinking”
Ms Sharon Baldoni, October 2021
Sharon Baldoni discovered the Bahá’í Faith in 1970 and was transformed by it. She has been an avid promoter of its teachings ever since. She was the co-host of a television series called the “Spiritual Revolution”, based in LA and SF. She holds a BS from Ohio State, but has been a lay student of science and its implications all her life. She continues to speak about the brilliance of the Bahá’í teachings and how we can connect to the wisdom of this extraordinary dispensation.
“How can one be happy in today’s world?”
Ms Francoise Le Goff, September 2021
Ms Francoise Le Goff has been working for the Red Cross for almost 40 years and traveled to over 145 countries in her work. She is now the director of the Global Services Center in Hungary. Throughout her life, she has been deeply committed to advocating for the most vulnerable, finding meaning in service to others. She met the Baha’i Faith in 2007 in Zimbabwe. In this presentation, she talks about the Baha’i principles and ideas that give her hope.
“A Physicist’s Journey to the Baha’i Faith“
Dr Vahid Ranjbar, Saturday Sept 18th at 12 noon
Dr Vahid Ranjbar is a research physicist at the Brookhaven National Lab. He has published extensively in his field of beam dynamics and is a reviewer for the journals of the American Physical Society. He is leading the development of the electron injector complex for the future Electron Ion Collider. He both thinks and writes about the coherence of science and religion and is a frequent contributor to bahaiteachings.org on that issue. In this presentation, he describes his own journey to the truths of the Baha’i Faith.
“The Spiritual Evolution of Mankind and How Religion was Hijacked on Sept 11th“
Mr Wade Fransson, September 2021
Wade Fransson has taken an interesting life path. Starting as a minister for the Worldwide Church of God, he resigned in 1995 and became a teacher, then he established a successful business in the corporate world and was awarded a lifetime achievement award while working with poor communities in India. Along the way, he discovered the Baha’i Faith. In this presentation, he talks from a Biblical perspective about his path to appreciating the progressive revelation of spiritual truth and the nature of true religion.
“The Role of Mothers in Building a New World“
Dr Hugh Motlagh, Sept 2021
Dr Hugh Motlagh was born in Iran to Jewish parents. As a Baha’i, he has become a prolific author with books that cover theological topics and the Baha’i Faith. He has escaped death many times to reach the age of 87. In this talk, he first outlines several key spiritual principles to understand the true nature of a human being, and then speaks about the importance of motherhood and how it relates to our spiritual and social journey.
“Can an agnostic Jew be a Baha’i?“
Ms. Jack Gordon, Aug 26th at 12 noon
Mr Jack Gordon is a documentary filmmaker and host of the radio show “interfaith-ish”. He grew up in a religiously-mixed family, went to synagogue, attended Hebrew school- but never thought much about God. He studied the Baha’i Faith in college and joined the community in 2003, in Madagascar. In this talk, he will discuss his spiritual journey and how he is inspired to build community with all people.
“The Baha’i Faith during Nazi Germany“
Ms. David Langness, Aug 19th at 12 noon
In this presentation, Mr David Langness explains the Baha’i Faith by comparing it with it’s opposite- Naziism- and tells the story of the German Baha’i community in the time of the Naziis. Mr Langness edits and writes for Bahaiteachings.org, the world’s largest Baha’i website, which he has helped nurture and build since 2012. Prior to that work, he had an extensive 30 year career as a communications executive. David also co-founded Homeless Healthcare Los Angeles, focused on health care for the chronically homeless.
“Can our thoughts shape our reality? My own personal journey out of darkness“
Ms. Faith Holmes, August 2021
In this presentation, Ms Faith Holmes discusses her own journey to a greater understanding of the Baha’i concept of the unity of science and religion, specifically around the idea that thoughts shape reality. Ms Holmes is a coach and mentor in mindfulness, meditation, and how we can live a life of coherence, recognizing that we are not the victims of our circumstances but can create our own reality.
“Coming to Terms with the Claims of Baha’u’llah“
Dr Kendal Williams, August 2021
When we read the Writings of Baha’u’llah, one is struck by the majestic and authoritiative tone by which He speaks. This starts a process of us trying to understand the nature and significance of Baha’u’llah’s claim. In this presentation, Dr Williams reviews his own journey through the Writings of Baha’u’llah and the passages and ideas that helped him better understand the truth and significance of Baha’u’llah’s Revelation.
“Hinduism and the Baha’i Faith- Similarities and Differences“
Mr Vasu Mohan, July 2021
Hinduism is an ancient and varied religion that reflects the beliefs of the people of the Indian sub-continent. Little is known about its historical origins but what has been handed down is a faith with profound and beautiful insights. How does this grand tradition relate to God’s latest Revelation to all humanity? In this talk, Mr Vasu Mohan tackles this question. Mr Mohan has been engaged in work for over 20 years to promote democracy, good governance, and human rights in Asia with a focus on the empowerment of the disadvantaged. He was responsible for the IFES Women’s Legal Rights Initiative in India, and serves on the board of the Tahirih Justice Institute, a US-based organization focused on protecting immigrant women fleeing persecution and violence.
“Who was ”Abdu’l-Baha?“
Erica Touissant-Brock, July 2021
‘Abdu’l-Baha’ is one of the most important and remarkable humans to ever live. Millions of Baha’is all over the world pattern their lives off of his example. His writings and talks explained religion with a depth and clarity that is without peer. In this talk, Erica Touissant-Brock introduced ‘Abdu’l-Baha’. Erica is a former member of the NSA of the Baha’is of the US and the great-grandaughter of Howard Colby Ives, a Christian minister who met ‘Abdu’l-Baha’ and described his experiences in the book “Portals to Freedom”.
“Why Baha’is believe that all the Prophets come from the same God“
Steve Sarowitz, July 2021
Steve Sarowitz is Founder and Chairman of Paylocity, a leading U.S. provider of payroll and HR solutions. In addition, Steve also serves as CEO of Blue Marble, an international payroll provider, and as Director of Payescape, a UK payroll provider. He is an international philanthropist with an interest in promoting unity, universal education and advocating for the elimination of racism, sexism, nationalism, and religious prejudice. He also serves on the board of NCAT, an organization that builds state-of-the art training centers in urban areas. In his second career as a filmmaker, Steve is now a partner in Wayfarer Studios and executive producer of the Disney movie Clouds.
“An Introduction to Baha’i Law“
Dr Kendal Williams, July 2021
As people begin to explore the Baha’i teachings, they often begin to have questions about the standards and laws revealed by Baha’u’llah. In this presentation, Dr Kendal Williams explains that the laws revealed by Baha’u’llah are an expression of love and our response to them is formed out of love. They are not a “mere code of laws”, but a guide to help us fulfill the purpose of our lives, as individuals and in society.
“Should faith be blind or conscious?“
Dr Kamran Sediq, June 2021
In this presentation, Dr Kamran Sediq took everyone on a deep diver into what faith is really all about, correlating it with science and philosophical thought. Dr Sediq is a Professor of Computer Science at Western University, Canada. His inter-disciplinary research is at the crossroads of computing, information science, cognitive science, and other fields. He has published over 130 research articles in his field. He is also an avid student of religion, psychology, and philosophy.
“Radical Virtue- a Baha’i guide to fighting racism“
Ms Tierney Sutton, June 2021
A 9-time Grammy nominee, Tierney Sutton has received a “Best Jazz Vocal Album” Grammy nod for every project she has released in the last 15 years. Known for her impeccable voice and superbly imaginative arrangements, Sutton is heralded as both a storyteller as well as for her ability to transform even the most familiar song into a revelation. The pandemic found Tierney deepening her musical partnership with jazz piano star Tamir Hendelman. After a series of streamed and recorded concerts, an album of this exciting duo is in the works.
“How the Baha’i Faith fulfills Native American/Indigenous prophecies”“
Mr Kevin Locke, June 2021
Kevin Locke is a world famous ambassador of the Lakota people, fascinating audiences with traditional hoop dancing, Northern Plains flute playing, and traditional stories of his native people. As a Baha’i, Kevin has become a world citizen and promotes drawing on our individual heritages to create a vibrant, evolving global civilization. His reflections on the message of Baha’u’llah and how it relates to indigenous heritage are always illuminating.
“The Number One Way to Choose a Marriage Partner“
Ms Susanne Alexander, June 2021
Susanne M. Alexander is a Relationship and Marriage Educator who has a Baha’i-inspired company “Marriage Transformation”. Through her books, online courses, and coaching, Susanne helps people build the knowledge and skills to make good relationship and marriage choices. She lives and works with her husband in Tennessee.
“How the Baha’i Faith helps us go deeper than diversity“
Homa Sabet Tavangar & Eric Dozier May 2021
Homa Sabet Tavangar and Eric Dozier have both had distinguished careers of leadership in educating about unity and diversity. Homa is the author of “Growing Up Global- Raising Kids to Be at Home in the World” and has contributed to five other books on education. Eric is a musician, educator, and cultural activist. He served as the director of the Harlem Gospel Choir and the award winning Children’s Theater Company in NYC. Together, they train and advise schools on issues of diversity and inclusion all over the world.
“The Soul and the Afterlife“
Dr Farzam Kamalabadi, Saturday May 22nd at 12noon
In this presentation, Dr Kamalabadi returns to Modern Perspectives to present a Baha’i perspective on the soul and the afterlife. Dr Kamalabadi’s full description is below. He has had a successful career as an international businessman and connecter across cultures.
“What is the station of a Manifestation of God?“
Dr Kambeze Etemad, May 2021
In this presentation, Dr Kambeze Etemad explores the nature and meaning of a Manifestation of God. How can we understand a human claiming to represent God? Dr Etemad is a great teacher of these concepts and his presentations are always stimulating and illuminating. He is a psychiatrist, educator, and author who lives in the Philadelphia area. He has written two books on the Baha’i Faith in the style of Shakespearean poetry.
“Why religion will remain forever relevant“
James Elijio, May 2021
Mr James Elijio is an educator, researcher, writer, and editor of scientific texts. Originally from Belize, he is deeply committed to the progress of the Garifuna people and the Afro-Carribean culture of Belize and other Caribbean nations. He has been a Baha’i for over 31 years and has worked throughout his life for the building of a peaceful world civilization. He presently lives in Lithuania with his wife and two daughters.
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“Achieving health equity. Lessons learned from the Covid-19 pandemic.“
Dr Shad Marvasti, April 2021
Dr. Shad (MD, MPH) is a Stanford-trained physician, medical educator, and author. He is proactively engaged in creating innovative solutions to treat, prevent and reverse the chronic diseases of our time by modifying the social, behavioral and lifestyle determinants of health. He currently serves as Associate Professor and Director of Public Health, Prevention and Health Promotion at the University of Arizona College of Medicine Phoenix. His work has been featured on local and national media where he has been quoted or interviewed for his recognized expertise in Public Health, Prevention, Nutrition, Wellness, Social Determinants of Health, and Health Equity
“Can our economic system ever be ethical and spiritual? A Baha’i perspective“
Dr Hooshmand Badee, April 2021
Dr Badee is an academic economist. In his books and presentations, he has focused on the ethics of economics and a Baha’i-inspired model of economic sustainability. He is a current faculty of the Wilmette Institute and an academic member of the Baha”i Institute for Higher Education (BIHE) in Iran.
“The Shift to Global Consciousness from a Baha’i Perspective”
Elena Mustakova, April 2021
In a previous presentation, Dr Elena Mustakova brought her experience as a practicing psychologist and scholar to the question of spiritual and psychological development. In this presentation, she addressed the shift to a global consciousness. Dr Mustakova is an educator, social scientist, and former professor of developmental psychology who is now in private psychotherapy practice in the DC Metro area.
“A Conversation with Justin Baldoni about the Baha’i Faith”
Justin Baldoni, Saturday April 2021
In this presentation, actor Justin Baldoni explores through a question and answer format his faith as a Baha’i. Justin Baldoni is an actor, director, producer, entrepeneur and changemaker whose efforts are focused on creating impactful media and entertainment. He is the co-founder of Wayfarer Studio that pioneers the production of media that elevates and speaks to the human spirit. He directed the recent feature film “Clouds”. He came to be known widely for playing Rafael on the show “Jane the Virgin”. He lives in California with his wife, two children, and their dog Happy.
“Competition or cooperation, a Baha”i perspective”
Dr Michael Karlberg, Saturday April 3rd at 12noon
Dr Michael Karlberg is a professor of Communication studies at Western Washington University. His scholarship examines prevailing conceptions of human nature, power, social organization, and social change- and their implications in the pursuit of peace and justice. In this talk, he explores those themes from a Baha’i perspective.
“Should religion be hereditary or chosen?”
Paymaneh Parhami, March 2021
Paymaneh Parhami is a attorney who practices in an international law firm with a focus on trademark and copyright law, having recently completed a law degree at UC Berkeley. She graduated from Barnard College at Columbia University with a degrees in political science and chemistry. She has also served at the Baha’i World Center. She views her profession as a way to be faithful to Baha’u’llah’s teaching that we should “be anxiously concerned with the age ye live in” and work to solve its problems. She is also the host of the Modern Perspectives series.
“The Baha’i calendar- Putting eternity back in time”
Mr Tom Lysaght, March 2021
Raised Irish-Catholic in Brooklyn, Mr. Tom Lysaght graduated from Harvard University and has written some 30 plays in both English and Spanish – published by Samuel French – and produced from villages in the Andes to Off-Broadway. Mr Lysaght was founding director and resident playwright of El Teatro de Pan y Paz (Bread and Peace Theater) in rural Peru, where he wrote “circus drama”- plays about social, economic and health challenges for open-air performances in the Andean villages. In this presentation, he explains the history and purpose behind the Bahá’í calendar
“A Baha’i inspired plan for world peace”
Ms Sovaida Maani, March 2021
Sovaida Maani Ewing is an international lawyer with eighteen years of experience in private and government practice and one of the leading thinkers on the issue of global governance. She is the founding director of the Center for Peace and Global Governance (cpgg.org), and organization that pools and proposes principles and solutions to pressing global challenges. In this important presentation, she shared a plan for world peace, inspired by the Baha’i writings.
“Why and how Baha’is fast”
Ms Deborah Walters, March 2021
Fasting is unfamiliar to many modern people but is a core element of religious practice since ancient times. In this presentation, Deborah Walters discusses the why and how of Baha’i fasting. Ms Walters specializes in mental and spiritual health and has a passion for bringing real happiness to her patients. She has a degree in homeopathy and naturopathy, as well as additional certificates in healing disciplines. She is also a virtues training facilitator.
“What a world civilization looks like, from a Baha’i perspective”
Dr Behrooz Sabet, Feb 2021
Dr Behrooz Sabet is a distinguished scholar on the intersection of religion, science, and contemporary intellectual thoughts and movements. He has focused particularly on the impact of modern ideas on Middle Eastern societies. He has been a university professor, academic dean, and consultant on aspects of education and culture. He has lectured extensively on these elements and Baha’i contributions to social discourse. In this presentation, he discusses how Baha’i’s see us moving towards a world civilization and what the civilization might look like.
“A Better Way, Lessons from the Baha’i Election Process”
Robert Ahdieh, February 2021
Robert Ahdieh is the dean of the Texas A&M School of Law. After attending Radnor High School near Philadelphia, he attended Princeton University and then Yale Law School. He has had a distinguished career at Emory University and more recently Texas A&M. He has published significant works in several law reviews and wrote the seminal work on the transition of the legal system in Russia after the fall of the Soviet Union. In this presentation, he brought his keen legal eye to the issue of how the Baha’i election process can serve as a model for a new system.
“Why I am a Baha’i”
Rainn Wilson, Feb 2021
In this honest presentation, Rainn Wilson tells the story of his spiritual path and why he is now a Baha’i. Rainn is best known as an actor, portraying “Dwight” on the “The Office” among other significant roles. He is also an artist, “spiritual entrepeneur”, and a philanthropist, founding an educational program for girls in rural Haiti. He hosts a very popular podcast in which he interviews Baha’is around the world on the website Baha’i Blog (bahaiblog.net). In this presentation, he answers a simple question.
“Would I have accepted Jesus?- a Baha’i perspective”
Dr Ghaneh Fananapazir, February 2021
In this presentation, Dr Ghaneh Fananapazir brings a deep knowledge of the Bible to ask the fundamental question of how to judge the truth of a Manifestation of God. Would you have accepted Jesus in His lifetime, before He was popular? What approach should we take in investigating Baha’u’llah’s claim? Dr Fananapazir was raised in Scotland and trained in medicine in the US. He is now a Professor of Radiology at the Mayo Clinic and splits his time between California and Arizona. He is married with two children.
“Is Justice or Unity the Goal?”
Mrs Layli Miller-Muro, January 2021
In this wonderful talk, Layli Miller-Muro introduces the Baha’i Faith and then discusses how justice and unity are both necessary to build a peaceful world. Layli was trained as a lawyer and is now the CEO of the Tahirih Justice Center, a non profit organization she founded early in her career. The Center provides free legal services and engages in advocacy on behalf of immigrant women and girls fleeing human rights abuses. In her role, she has won numerous awards including one of the “Most Fearless” women in the world by Newsweek/Daily Beast. She lives in Virginia with her husband and three children.
“What are Baha’is doing to address human rights violations around the world?”
Dr Payam Akhavan, January 2021
Dr Akhavan is a former UN prosecutor at the Hague, a Member of the Permanent Court of Arbitration, and counsel before the International Court of Justice. He earned his PhD from Harvard Law School and teaches at the University of Toronto with a primary appointment at McGill. He is the author of a best-selling book- “In Search of a Better World- A Human Rights Odyssey”.
“Why I Believe in God- a Baha’i Persepective”
Dr Kendal Williams, January 2021
In this presentation, Dr Williams shares the ideas and insights that have led him to conclude that there is a God and that the religions of the world are fundamentally true expressions of the Will of God. Dr Williams is a professor of medicine at Penn and the editor of Sifter of Dust.
“Can religion and spirituality help teenagers become more resilient? A Baha’i Perspective”
Dr John Woodall, January 2021
Dr Woodall is a psychiatrist with a special expertise on post traumatic stress disorder, resilience, and brain health. He was the Director of the State Department refugee relief effort after the Balkans war and the convener of the “Resilient Responses to Social Crisis Working Group” at Harvard University. He is the medical director of Synergy Health in Sandy Hook CT, where he has had a vigorous role in resilience building efforts since the Newtown school shooting tragedy.
“How do Baha’is pray, worship, and serve?”
Parisa Fitz-Henley, January 2021
In this wonderful and personal talk, Parisa Fitz-Henley introduces how Baha’is pray and serve as individuals and as a community. Parisa is a Jamaican-American actor, singer, and producer known for her work in Marvel’s Jessica Jones and Luke Cage. She was born into a Baha’i family and has been developing her life in the faith ever since.
“The Future After the Pandemic in the Baha’i Vision”
Giuseppe Robiati, December 2020
In this presentation, Dr Guiseppe Robiati describes the forces that are impacting our planet and how they are part of the natural evolution towards a world civilization. Dr Robiati has spent his life combining his business activities with parallel educational and spiritual efforts to bring the concept of a new world order into business. Working with a team of collaborators, he has built an extensive curricula spanning a wide range of business issues in which he applies Baha’i ethics to business challenges. Originally from a Catholic background, he has served on the national Baha’i governing body of Italy and is a co-founder of the European Baha’i Business Forum.
“What is the role of wealth in society, from a Baha’i perspective?”
Ms Jenna Nicholas, December 2020
In this comprehensive discussion, Jenna Nicholas describes the underlying spiritual and moral prinicples that inform Baha’i approaches to social and economic improvement. Jenna Nicholas studied international relations at Stanford University and international development at Oxford, followed by an MBA at Stanford. She was a Soros fellow and has had numerous honors for her wide ranging work in social entrepeneurship. She is the CEO of Impact Experience- a firm that helps overcome issues of structural racism and the vice president of the venture capital firm One Planet which focuses investment on transformative approaches to societal improvement.
“Can spirituality help mental health and depression?”
Dr Elena Mustakova, December 2020
In this erudite, illuminating, and important talk, Dr Elena Mustakova explores the connections between spirituality and psychological development, in the context of our modern society. Dr Elena Mustakova is an educator, social scientist, and former professor of developmental psychology who is now in private psychotherapy practice in the DC Metro area. She has received academic recognition for her scholarship, lecturing and writing on the development of moral consciousness, and the re-thinking of psychology to address the spiritual needs of the modern global age.
“Can we ever overcome our divisive times?”
Mr Van Gilmer, November 2020
In a heartfelt and inspiring talk, Mr Van Gilmer discusses the recent divisive events in American society and describes how each person can make a difference by developing a personal plan of action, one in which one’s ideals are reflected in pure deeds. Van Gilmer is a distinguished musician and composer whose contributions to Baha’i choral music have been extensive and spanned several decades. In 2006, he was awarded the Independent Music Awards “Best Gospel Song” and he is currently the music director at the Baha’i House of Worship, near Chicago. He has been a civil rights advocate for all his adult life and continues to work with multiple organizations to build unity and bring justice for peoples of all backgrounds.
“How can the Baha’i Faith change your life?”
Mr Hooper Dunbar, November 2020
Hooper Dunbar is known throughout the Baha’i world for his selfless service to the Faith spanning several decades. Originally from Los Angeles, he began his career as an actor and a member of the Screen Actor’s Guild before leaving the US to serve the Baha’i Faith in Nicaragua. He was eventually elected to the Universal House of Justice where he served for 22 years until 2010. Mr Dunbar has deeply studied Baha’u’llah’s Revelation and taught himself both Persian and Arabic in order to read the Writings in their original language. He wrote an in-depth study of Baha’u’llah’s masterful theological work, the Book of Certitude.
“Material Wealth and Spiritual Wealth- a Baha’i Perspective”
Steve Sarowitz, November 2020
In this presentation, Steve Sarowitz presents his unique perspective on the Baha’i Faith, sharing the story of how he became a Baha’i nearly simultaneously with going public with a profitable business. He then had to balance his spiritual values with material wealth. Steve Sarowitz is a highly successful entrepeneur and the founder of Paylocity, a payroll and HR firm. He is also an international philanthropist and a film producer, including a film about Maya Angelou and a more recent one about the life of the Bab entitled “The Gate”.
“Spiritual Solutions to Global Economic Problems from a Baha’i Perspective
Dr Augusto Lopez-Carlos- November 2020
Dr Lopez-Carlos is currently the Chair of the Global Governance Forum, an organization committed to fostering international cooperation in the search for solutions to global problems. He is a distinguished economist with over 30 years experience with international organizations, including serving as chief economist for the World Bank. His latest books are “Equality for Women = Prosperity for All” (2018), and “Global Governance and the Emergence of Global Institutions for the 21st Century” (2020).
“When Spirituality and Religion meet Science- a Baha’i Point of View”
Dr Stephen Phelps, October 2020
In this highly interesting talk, Dr Stephen Phelps explains some of the metaphorical language used in the Baha’i Writings to understand reality. As the world is a reflection of spiritual realities that are abstract to us, religions have used metaphors of things that exist in the material world to describe it. There are then parallels in what we see in the material universe through science, and Dr Phelps explores those parallels. A more complete bio of Stephen may be found below.
“How do Baha’is view life after death?”
Dr Haideh Sabet, October 2020
Dr Haideh Sabet is an assistant professor of neurology at Georgetown University and an active Baha’i. In this presentation, she gives an introduction to the Baha’i Faith and addresses the Baha’i concept of life after death by sharing several passages from the Baha’i writings.
“The Golden Age of Humanity- When Will It Arrive and What Will It Look Like?”
Dr Farzam Kamalabadi, October 2020
Unlike many thinkers, Baha’is believe that humanity is entering a “golden age” characterized by a world civilization founded on justice and peace. In this presentation, Dr Farzam Kamalabadi returned to offer his perspective on what such a “golden age” might look like. More on Dr Kamalabadi may be found below.
“1848- The Year that Changed the World”
By Tom Lysaght, October 2020
Tom Lysaght is a writer, novelist, playwright, and Baha’i who recently published a highly regarded history of the Bab and Baha’u’llah that highlighted their incredible story within Persian society. In this talk, he describes the significant changes that have happened in our world since Baha’u’llah’s declaration and how we can use Baha’u’llah’s teachings to help us understand where the world is headed.
“Education for Liberation: A Baha’i Perspective”
By Dr Anthony Outler, October 2020
In this highly informative and thought-provoking presentation, Dr Anthony Outler describes the historical sources of oppression in education and the approaches we can take to re-design our thinking about education to build a more just society. Dr Anthony Outler has worked as a K-12 educator in predominantly black schools in the Atlanta area for the last 17 years, after receiving his PhD in Educational Policy at Georgia State University.
“America’s Racial Problem from a Baha’i Perspective”
By Masud Olufani. September 2020.
In this presentation, the ever-eloquent Masud Olufani returns to discuss honestly the Baha’i perspective on America’s racial issues. He describes how Baha’is are striving to put faith and ideals into action to solve this “most vital and challenging issue”.
“Who is Baha’u’llah?- An Introduction to HIs Life and Teachings”
By Kendal Williams, September 2020
Dr Kendal WIlliams is a professor of medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and editor of Sifterofdust.org. In this presentation, he surveys the life and teachings of Baha’u’llah, the prophet-founder of the Baha’i Faith and one of the most remarkable souls to ever live on this planet. He also highlights the claims of Baha’u’llah to be the bearer of a Revelation for our time in history and explain the theology that underlies that claim. A PDF of the slides in this presentation may be found here.
“The Promised Day Has Come, What That Means for Our World- A Baha’i Perspective”
By Dr Farzam Kamalabadi
Dr Farzam Kamalabadi is a world renowned businessman and thought leader with a deep knowledge of China, including its rich history and culture. He was once dubbed the “most influential foreign figure in modern Chinese history” by the Chinese press. He has had a wide ranging career in finance, the digital economy, energy, and assisting with national strategy in the face of global changes. In this presentation, he will bring insights from his faith as a Baha’i into the social forces transforming our world.
“Can Science and Religion Ever Agree?- A Baha’i Perspective”
Dr. Steven Phelps, September 2020
Dr Steven Phelps received a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and physics from Stanford University and a Phd in physics from Princeton. He subsequently taught himself Arabic and Persian in order to read the Baha’i writings in their original languages . In this stimulating presentation, Dr Phelps introduces the Baha’i concept of the harmony of science and religion by highlighting fundamental principles expressed in the Baha’i writings. The quotes and concepts Dr Phelps references in his talk may be found here.
“Facing and Fighting Racism with Spiritual Power”
By Tierney Sutton, August 2020
Tierney Sutton is a 9-time Grammy-nominated jazz vocalist. She has received a “Best Jazz Vocal Album” Grammy nod for every project she has released in the last decade. In this presentation, she joins from Paris and brings her voice and insight to how we can use spiritual approaches to overcoming racism.
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“A Musical Exploration of Baha’i Themes”
By Red Grammer, August 2020
Red Grammer is one of the premier entertainers of children and families in the world (and also the father of superstar Andy Grammer!). His work has been inspired by Baha’u’llah’s vision of universal peace and the oneness of humanity. In this presentation, Red brings his guitar and spectacular voice to give an introduction to the Baha’i Faith through music.
“The Stony and Glorious Path Towards Oneness”
By Masud Olufani. July 2020.
Masud Olufani is an Atlanta-based Baha’i sculptor, actor, and artist. In an inspiring and thought-provoking talk, Masud shares insights of his personal journey towards oneness. More on Masud may be found here. Masud gave a similarly inspiring talk for bahaiteachings.org entitled “Freeing Ourselves from the Stain of Racial Prejudice” which may be found here.
“Racial Prejudice- A Blight on Human Progress”
By Paymaneh Parhami. June 2020.
In this presentation, the hostess of Modern Perspectives, Paymaneh Parhami, discusses the elimination of racial prejudice and the history of Baha’i efforts to establish racial harmony in America. Paymaneh is a lawyer, having recently completed a law degree at UC Berkeley. She views her profession as a way to be faithful to Baha’u’llah’s teaching that we should “be anxiously concerned with the age ye live in” and work to solve its problems.
“What is the Baha’i Faith and Why Is It Important?”
By Kendal Williams. August 2020.
Dr Williams is a professor of medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and the editor of SifterofDust.org. In this presentation, he introduces the Baha’i Faith and the claims of Baha’u’llah. He then reviews the potential significance of this Faith by placing it in the historical context of the impact of religion on civilization over the last 2000 years.
“Overview of the Spiritual Heritage of this Half of the Planet”
By Kevin Locke. June 2020.
Kevin Locke is a Native American Baha’i and one of the greatest ambassadors for the Lakota (Sioux) peoples. He has performed traditional hoop dancing and the Northern Plains flute to international audiences around the world. In this presentation, he introduces some of the history of Native American spirituality and how it relates to the Baha’i Faith. More info on Kevin can be found at kevinlocke.com
“Elevating Work to Worship”
By Payam Zamani. July 2020.
Payam Zamani is a California-based entrepreneur, and the founder, chairman and CEO of One Planet, a socially responsible hybrid tech firm that owns and operates a suite of online technology and media businesses. He co-founded bahaiteachings.org in 2012. In this presentation, he explains the Baha’i concept of work being an expression of faith and worship.
“Reaons for Hope”
By Dr Roya Akhavan, June 2020
Dr. Roya Akhavan serves as Professor and Director of Graduate Studies at the Department of Mass Communication, St. Cloud State University in Minnesota. Her research focuses on international affairs and peace studies, and she has published a book entitled “Peace for Our Planet, A New Approach” (2017). Her presentation outlines the historical forces of the last two centuries and why we should be hopeful that we can build a peaceful world civilization.
“In What Sense is Baha’u’llah the Return of Christ”
By Dr Lameh Fananapazir, Aug 2020
Dr Fananapazir is a cardiologist with a long and distinguished career studying the genetics of inherited cardiac disease, including heading the NIH Section on Inherited Heart Disease. He is also an expert on comparative religion and published books on both Islam and the Baha’i Faith. In this talk that heavily draws on Jewish and Christian scriptural texts, he discusses Baha’u’llah’s claim to be the return of Christ.
“A Baha’i Perspective on East Asian Religions- Shinto, Buddhism, and Confucianism”
By Nozomu Sonda, Aug 2020
Nozomu Sonda was born and raised in Japan and currently serves on the Baha’i governing body for the Baha’is of Japan. He is an instructor in English and studied psychology at Kansas State University. In this very important talk, he highlights the religious history of East Asia and how the principles of these religions inspired modern Japan and relate to the Baha’i Faith.
“Transcendence- Where Art and Faith Converge”
By Rainn Wilson, June 2020
Rainn Wilson is a well-known actor and comedian, most famous for his role as Dwight in “The Office”. He founded the website “Soul Pancake” and has been extremely active in serving humanity at all levels, including founding a school for the education of girls in rural Haiti. His podcast on Baha’i Blog interviews Baha’is from around the world and explores their personal stories. In this presentation, he shared his own personal insights on the Baha’i Faith and where art and faith converge.
“Just Imagine a World Without Boundaries- Gender Equality”
By Bayan Parhami, July 2020
Bayan Parhami is another member of the distinguished Parhami family- the hosts of Modern Perpectives. Bayan is a rising senior at Riverside High School in Virginia and also attends the Academy of Engineering and Technology. He has frequently presented to youth and other audiences on Baha’i principles. In this superb and insightful presentation, he tackles the principle of the equality of men and women from a Baha’i perspective.