Tuesday, November 5, 2024 | | | Eight years on, temple continues to uplift hearts and inspire service | SANTIAGO, Chile — As the temple recently marked its eighth anniversary with a two-day gathering of over 600 participants, the occasion offered an opportunity to reflect on how this sacred edifice has become a point for spiritual and social transformation in Chilean society. The temple's contribution to the life of society extends far beyond its stunning architecture—a masterpiece of design and state-of-the-art engineering which resembles the appearance of a natural form that has sprung organically from its environs. "This temple represents a beacon of hope and a meeting place for all people, combining both gentleness and grandeur," said Veronica Ore, Director of the temple, at the anniversary celebrations. "This point of the dawning-place of the remembrance of God," she continues, "is a refuge for everyone without distinction." She added: "During these years, we have had the privilege of connecting with communities, institutions, and authorities, sharing knowledge and creating bonds that transcend social barriers." In a recent conversation with the News Service, Mrs. Ore explained how the House of Worship, which rises gracefully from the foothills of the Andes Mountains, has inspired the more than two and a half million visitors since its dedication in 2016 to contemplate on life's fundamental questions and explore their role in contributing to social progress. "It has served as a magnetic center," said Mrs. Ore, "welcoming members of civil society, leaders of faith communities, media practitioners, and government officials to examine fundamental questions about social progress, looking beyond purely economic measures of development to consider spiritual principles such as justice and the inherent nobility of every human being," she said. These discussions have given rise to various collaborative initiatives with government agencies and civil society organizations on themes vital to Chile's future: building prosperous cities, fostering a cohesive society, and humanity's relationship with nature, among others. Cultural events at the temple have brought together choirs and artists in celebrations that present the beauty of diverse cultural expressions, while Bahá'í moral educational programs have helped young people explore principles and develop capacities for service to their communities. Through such initiatives, participants from various backgrounds—including women and indigenous peoples whose voices have historically been marginalized—have found new avenues for contributing to social progress. "The temple inspires me to serve others because it is a place that has personally helped me develop certain qualities such as love and understanding for others," said Hasan Guzman, a youth volunteer at the temple site. "All of us who are serving in this place are always spiritually connected with the same purpose." Franco Anello, another young volunteer, observed: "One of the things that most inspires me is seeing the impact on visitors—the positive impact of hope, connection, spirituality, and peace that they receive when they come to the temple." Reflecting on the celebrations, Mrs. Ore said, "The anniversary gatherings highlighted how this House of Worship, arising from the foothills of the Andes—a mountain range that unites the South American continent—has become a symbol of the power of unity."Visit news.bahai.org to view images of the anniversary event. | | | | | Officials explore social cohesion at Chile temple | | | | | | Promoting a harmonious relationship with the natural world | | | | | | How to foster prosperous cities | | | Follow BWNS for regular updates | | Dear Edward Lorilla, you are receiving this email because you subscribed to the Bahá'í World News Service (BWNS) at news.bahai.org/subscribe/.
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