The Promise of World Peace: A Timely Conversation in Dundee

On Sunday 15th February, the Bahá'ís of Dundee welcomed friends and neighbours to the Quakers Meeting House on Whitehall Crescent for an afternoon of reflection on one of the most pressing questions of our time: Is world peace possible?

The gathering, which drew 18 adults and 5 children, centred on The Promise of World Peace , a statement addressed to the peoples of the world by the Universal House of Justice in 1985. Forty years on, its vision feels as urgent as ever.

Attendees had the opportunity to view a recording of a talk by Dr Max Afnan, delivered at a seminar in Edinburgh last September, which offered a thoughtful and accessible exploration of the statement's themes. Dr Afnan's reflections invited the audience to consider where humanity stands today and what conditions might allow a lasting peace to take root.

The afternoon was family friendly, with Doa and Mhairi warmly providing a separate programme for children and junior youth , a wonderful touch that allowed families to participate fully together.

What made the gathering particularly enriching was the diversity of those present. Of the 18 adults, half were Bahá'ís and half were members of the wider Dundee community : neighbours, colleagues, and curious minds drawn by the question of peace itself. Their presence brought a breadth of perspectives that made the afternoon's conversation all the richer.

The Bahá'í writings remind us that "The well-being of mankind, its peace and security, are unattainable unless and until its unity is firmly established." Events like this one are small but meaningful steps towards nurturing that unity ; one conversation at a time.

If you were unable to attend and would like to explore the statement further, Dr Afnan's talk is available to view here.