The Baha’i faith, one of the world’s newest and fastest-growing religions, remains relatively unknown to many. Yet, millions of people worldwide have embraced its message of unity and community. Founded in 1844 in Persia (modern-day Iran), the religion teaches the oneness of all world religions. Since its inception, Baha’i teachings have spread across the globe, even reaching the Tampa Bay area.
In Palm Harbor, the Manfra family is observing one of the religion’s most important practices — fasting. Like many other religions, Baha’is have a designated fasting period. From March 2 to 21, Baha’is aged 15 and older fast from dawn to sunset, refraining from eating and drinking during daylight hours.
“We wake up, say a prayer, have a hearty breakfast, then get through the day until sunset. After another prayer, we eat. It’s important to me because it helps me reflect on my habits and see what might be excessive in my life,” explained Jaime Manfra, a member of the faith.
Dr. John Hatcher, a professor emeritus at the University of South Florida, has written extensively about the Baha’i faith. “We believe in one God and essentially one religion, revealed in progressive stages throughout human history,” said Dr. Hatcher.
According to him, Baha’is embrace the world’s major religions, such as Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, and Christianity. They believe that God has revealed Himself to humanity through prophets of these religions, with each revelation addressing the evolving needs of society. Dr. Hatcher offers virtual classes on the history and principles of Baha’i every other Wednesday, sharing them on YouTube.
In Baha’i places of worship, you won’t find sermons or clergy. These spaces serve as quiet places for personal reflection and prayer. A core belief in the faith is unity through community, transcending race, religion, and nationality.
“The Baha’i principles include the elimination of prejudice, the independent investigation of truth, and the equality of men and women,” said Leslie Farrell, a Baha’i of 22 years. She recalled how her college roommate, a Baha’i, quietly introduced her to the faith. “She had a prayer book that said ‘Baha’i Prayers,’ and when I asked her about it, she told me about the faith. It resonated with me because it seemed similar to what I already believed but I hadn’t known it existed.”
Back in Palm Harbor, the Manfra family and some non-Baha’i friends are finally able to break their fast after a short prayer. The meal includes chicken, fish, macaroni and cheese, and fruit.
In the Baha’i faith, it is believed that children should be old enough to make a conscious decision about their religious affiliation. For this reason, one officially becomes a Baha’i only after the age of 15. Ajay Manfra, who recently turned 16, shared why he chose to join the faith. “It’s so open-minded, and I really appreciate that. I like to include everyone, and that’s what Baha’i stands for—diversity,” Ajay said.
Ajay’s friend, Clayton, who isn’t Baha’i, feels welcomed by the community nonetheless. “I always feel included when I go to Baha’i meetings or even just when we hang out. Even though I’m not a Baha’i, I feel like I belong,” Clayton said.
There are over 6 million Baha’is worldwide, with approximately 177,000 in the United States. While still considered a small religion, the Baha’i faith has established four places of worship in the Tampa Bay area alone.
The Orthodox Bahá’í Faith 