What is a study circle?

A number of people have recently asked me what a study circle is all about. The following will, I hope, explain a little about this fun way of learning some of the how's and why's of applying spiritual and moral principles to improve our lives and widen our commitment to personal and collective change.

A "study circle" is were Bahá'ís and our friends learn about spiritual and moral principles through an active, cooperative learning method, which includes study of the course materials, planning service projects together, and putting into practice the acts of service one has learned in the course. The use of the arts is encouraged in all activities and there is a strong social element too. Study circles are organized by the Bahá'í community and are open to everyone who wishes to join, not just Bahá'ís.

The course content of the first book of the curriculum currently being used, entitled Reflections on the Life of the Spirit, is divided into three units: "Understanding the Bahá'í Writings," "Prayer," and "Life and Death." Among other things, these units examine the reality and purpose of life and the relationship we have with the spiritual world and our Creator.



Pictured here are the participants of a recently held study circle held in Swellendam, South Africa.

For more information check out the article entitled Collaborative Study for Individual and Social Transformation on the Bahá'í World Centre website.

Study circles are spiritualy energising and a lot of fun and I hope you will join one being held near you.