What secrets does the Baha’i Faith Church hold? Here, before the Baha’i Faith Church in San Diego, a sense of tranquility embraces you. It’s more than just a building. It’s a testament to a community, a faith that took root in this city in the early 1900s. Imagine San Diego’s early Baha’is, meeting ‘Abdu’l-Bahá himself during his California visit in 1912. The community blossomed, forming its first Local Spiritual Assembly in April 1953. Nine individuals—John Stroessler, Arna Meade, Doe Gregory, Bernice Stroessler, Soo Fouts, Vale Carlson, Millie Feiteira, Gladys Loudon, and Alice Hendershott—stepped forward to guide the then small community of around 20 members. They held meetings in homes, sharing their belief in the oneness of humanity, God, and religion. By the 1970s, the Baha’i Faith Church had found a home in Hillcrest, a testament to the community’s growth to about 100 members. The community relocated again in the 1980s to Linda Vista. This move accommodated the influx of Baha’is seeking refuge after the Iranian Revolution. The Baha’i Faith Church isn’t merely a place of worship. It’s a center for community activities, devotions, and humanitarian efforts. The San Diego Baha’i community contributes to the city’s rich tapestry. They work tirelessly toward a unified world, engaging in children’s spiritual education, workshops on healing racism, and interfaith programs. They collaborate with organizations like the San Diego United Nations Association and the Inter-Faith Council, furthering their vision of a global society. The Baha’i Faith Church stands as a symbol of hope, a beacon of unity, and a testament to the enduring power of faith in San Diego.
Sweetwater River
From high in the Cuyamaca Mountains, the Sweetwater River begins its journey. It’s a 55-mile trek to the Pacific, a