“Verily, it is enjoined upon you to offer a feast, once in every month, though only water be served; for God hath purposed to bind hearts together, albeit through both earthly and heavenly means.”
Bahái Writings
Nineteen Day Feasts
In the Bahá’í community, gatherings are held for various purposes: to pray, to study, to celebrate special occasions, to consult on community affairs and service to society, and to discuss plans of action.
The Bahá’í calendar consists of nineteen months of nineteen days each, and, in every locality, Bahá’ís gather together on the first day of each month for this meeting- the Ninenteen Day Feast- as stipulated by the teachings of Bahá’ ’u’lláh:
Nineteen Day Feasts and Consultation
Structure
The Nineteen Day Feast consists of three parts:
The first is the devotional part, during which prayers are recited, and passages from the Bahá’í Holy Writings are read. Listening to the Word of God in gatherings among friends brings joy to the hearts, attracting Divine bestowals and strengthens bonds of unity.
The second is referred to as the administrative part, during which deliberations on the needs of the local community takes place. These consultations are of the utmost importance, for, through this means, every individual is able to participate in, and contribute towards the affairs of their community.
The third is the social part, a time for friendship, elevated conversations and hospitality. Diverse expressions of culture, at once dignified and joyful, can be used to enrich this part of the Feast.