Free · Open to everyone

Explore life's biggest questions

Small group discussions about who we are, why we're here, and what kind of world we want to build.

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Small group having a discussion around a table

About discussion groups

Spaces to explore what it means to be spiritual beings, and what the Baha'i Faith has to say about the questions that matter most.

The format

What is a discussion group?

A small group of people meets regularly to explore a topic together through reading and conversation. Everyone's perspective matters, and the discussion goes wherever the group takes it.

Each session uses a short text that combines questions with passages from the Baha'i writings. The questions come first. Something like "Have you ever felt a connection to something greater than yourself?" Everyone shares. Then the group reads a passage that offers the Baha'i perspective on that question, and the conversation continues.

Groups meet in community centers and homes across the Boston area. Usually 4 to 8 people. There are topics for wherever you are — from exploring what it means to be a spiritual being to diving into the Baha'i teachings on justice, community, and the soul. You don't need to know anything about the Baha'i Faith to join.

What we explore

Some questions we discuss

Is there something greater than all of this?

What does it actually mean to be happy?

What does it really mean to be one people?

Why does the world feel so broken right now?

How do I live a life that matters?

What does it mean to have a soul?

Have all the world's religions been telling the same story?

Why do we need each other?

What would a just society actually look like?

Is there a reason to be hopeful about the future?

Every group starts where you are. No background needed.

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Common questions

Questions people ask

What happens at a discussion group?

A small group of 4 to 8 people meets in a community space for about 90 minutes. You read a short passage together, then talk about it. The tone is conversational, and the materials are structured, but the discussion goes wherever the group takes it.

What do you actually discuss?

Big questions. What does it mean to live a meaningful life? How do we build communities that actually work? What is the soul? What does justice look like in practice? The readings come from Baha'i texts and are designed to spark reflection and thoughtful, participatory conversations that welcome all perspectives.

Where do groups meet?

In community spaces across Greater Boston. Groups meet in Cambridge, Somerville, Boston, Newton, Brookline, Arlington, and Chelsea. When you reach out, we'll connect you with a group near you.

What if I'm not much of a talker?

That's completely fine. Some people share a lot. Some people mostly listen. There's no pressure to speak, and no one will put you on the spot. The group works because people bring different things to it. Listening is one of them.

How can I know what will be discussed beforehand?

Before each session, the host sends out the topic that will be discussed. You can decide whether it interests you and opt in or not. No surprises, no pressure to attend every time.

What if I don't know anything about the Baha'i Faith?

Most people who come don't. The group doesn't assume any background knowledge. You don't need to have read anything or believe anything. The conversation starts from the text in front of you, not from years of study. If something comes up that's unfamiliar, people explain it naturally.

How much does it cost?

Nothing. Completely free. No fees, no materials cost, no fundraising.

Will someone try to convert me?

No. The purpose of the group is exploration, not recruitment. You'll read from Baha'i texts and discuss the ideas in them, but no one will ask you to accept anything or make any commitment. Come because the questions interest you.

What's the age range?

There's a mix of ages, but most groups in Boston tend to be university students and people in their twenties or thirties. You won't be the only young person in the room.

Can I bring a friend?

Of course. The more the better.

What if I just want to come once?

Then come once. That's a complete sentence. No one will make it weird.