The period between the ages of 11 to 15 represents a special time in the life of an individual, for it is during these years that he or she leaves childhood behind and undergoes profound change. Ask members of Bahá'í youth groups what they’re involved in, and you’ll no doubt hear about helping to build sustainable communities, teaching children principles of morality, participating in interfaith programs and doing service projects, among other activities.

In the Junior Youth Spiritual Empowerment Program, one of the "Core Activities" in the world-wide Bahá'í community, groups of 10 to 15 junior youth are formed and facilitated by trained individuals, who serve as mentors and role models. The themes the participants often study revolve around cooperation, unity, service to humanity, truthfulness, striving for excellence in their lives and for the community, and justice.

Featured Video

The following video, "Junior Youth: Not Simply A time of Waiting" is provided by the Bahá'í National Center and outlines the Bahá'í approach to cultivating the talents and spiritual qualities of teens.

A Bahá'í Prayer for Youth

"O Lord!  Make this youth radiant, and confer Thy bounty upon this poor creature.  Bestow upon him knowledge, grant him added strength at the break of every morn and guard him within the shelter of Thy protection so that he may be freed from error, may devote himself to the service of Thy Cause, may guide the wayward, lead the hapless, free the captives and awaken the heedless, that all may be blessed with Thy remembrance and praise.  Thou art the Mighty and the Powerful.”  -‘Abdu'l-Bahá

To locate a Youth Group near you, please refer to the Calendar or contact the Bahá’ís of Louisville by calling 502-267-0099 or the Contact page.