Clockwise from top right corner: Indigenous people at a Bahá'í spiritual classes in Ondjombo, Namibia; Bolivia; Indore, India; and Khargone, India.

Bahá'í spiritual classes, called study circles, which are multiplying rapidly throughout the world, are gatherings of people from all background who are interested in an in-depth, systematic moral and spiritual study. It starts with the individual's recognition that there is more to life than material gain, that we are spiritual beings and that our greatest happiness truly is in helping humanity. All participants arrive at a better understanding on their purpose in life and many discover ways to improve their own lives and the lives of those around them. Such a transformational process requires skills and training. That's where the spiritual classes come in.

Bahá'ís are actively engaged in developing knowledge, skills, and spiritual insights through spiritual development on various topics. They – with their neighbours from all walks of life and of all religions or faiths – learn to act more effectively towards the betterment of humankind and serving the needs of the community and the larger society. Participants in these courses learn, for example, to start their own children's class, to engage in community service activities, to assist and empower others to independently investigate spiritual truths, to learn how to competently express one’s views, and to engage oneself in serving the broader needs of society for unity, justice, and equality. The participants often experience a new sense of direction in life, better relationships with family and friends, and a fruitful re-evaluation of the contribution one can make to the wider community.

Each spiritual class is based on one of seven themes in the curriculum, which is known as the Ruhi series of courses. There is, however, particular emphasis on three of the books for those who want to run their own local social initiative irrespective of background or beliefs. The training is provided for free and you can count on the wholehearted support of the local Bromley Bahá'í community for planning, organising and implementation of the activities. Remember these are your courses, so you conduct them to your preferences. It's easy as ABC!

A) Your very own Children’s Class: all that is required is for you to study book 1, Reflections on the Life of the Spirit, and book 3, Teaching Children's Classes Grade 1.

B) Your very own Devotional Gathering: the requirement is for you to just study book 1, Reflections on the Life of the Spirit.

C) Your very own Youth Group: you should study book 1, Reflections on the Life of the Spirit, and Book 5, Teaching Children's Classes Grade 2.

Participants from various backgrounds and beliefs learning from series of books 1-7 from the spiritual classes, representing different parts of Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, China, Greece, Kazakhstan, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and UK.