The centerpiece of Bahá'í community life is the Nineteen Day Feast. Held once every 19 days, it is the local community's regular worship gathering--and more.

    Open to both adults and children, the Nineteen Day Feast is the regular gathering that promotes and sustains the unity of the local Bahá'í community. Although its program is adaptable to a wide variety of cultural and social needs, the Feast always contains three elements: spiritual devotion, administrative consultation, and fellowship. As such, the Feast combines religious worship with grassroots governance and social enjoyment.

     The use of the word "feast" might seem to imply that a large meal will be served. That is not necessarily the case. While food and beverages are usually served, the term itself is meant to suggest that the community should enjoy a "spiritual feast" of worship, companionship and unity. Bahá'u'lláh stressed the importance of gathering every nineteen days, "to bind your hearts together," even if nothing more than water is served.

     During the devotional program, selections from the Bahá'í writings, and often the scriptures from other religions, are read aloud. A general discussion follows, allowing every member a voice in community affairs and making the Feast an "arena of democracy at the very root of society." The Feast ends with a period for socializing.

 Hang Out Details

      Usually the youth organize social events during Baha'i events. Vafa and I felt that because of many complexities it was best to arrange something in advance. So after 2 hours of consultation until 6am, we called the manager at Denny's and reserved the 50-seat party room from 10pm-2am. Ultimately over 35 youth showed up from all over the city and enjoyed cards, poker, and socializing. But don't take my word for it--check out the pictures. :)

Note: try to follow the social butterfly.










Delara has the uncanny ability to turn an otherwise good picture ... (much love Delara)






Attack of the Heyvoon! (Both hands?! - Impressive!!)


Sorry Leroy...time to give up that title.






My toes hurt after this picture.








Take it easy with the pulchritude.




"No, I'm telling you Hadi, the b3 amino complex has a twisted pair duo-carbon helix..."




I can't remember what was said to cause this facial distortion, but I do vaguely remember something about a promise to delete it or...










Dead money: a pejorative poker term used for any amateur player since their stack of chips is dead, waiting to be picked up by someone with experience.


I still can't figure out how this duo was cheating but 'Drew kept cleaning up.




Dan the Dealer.








Here I'm holding up a Robert Jordan fantasy novel. The waiter handed it to me after I kept complaining that there was no toilet paper in the men's bathroom. I must say, the pages were very soft.


"This is the last time I'm going to tell you this, but please remember that his name is not just Martin, but 'Your Majesty' or 'Your Highness' and refrain from looking him directly in the eyes out of respect."


"The Tourist"








Reaction after getting bamboozled by Kamran in the arm-wrestling department.


Time to regain the title for our family.


V is for Victory


One of the sworn duties of MartinsQuest.com is to start rumours. Enjoy!


One of the sworn duties of MartinsQuest.com is to start rumours. Enjoy!








Our incredible waiter Gotaybah who went to bat for us in allowing us to play cards (albeit not for money) where such an activity is usually not allowed because of city ordinances. Thanks!

See: Set 2 of these pics