Report 2004 - 3rd Changing Times

26th of December 2004 — 1st of January 2005

How is it that in a cold and icy corner of the Czech Republic, youth gathered together from all over the world are set ablaze by the fire of love each winter? Locals must be wondering why, for the third year running now, over 200 youth from all corners of the globe have descended upon the provincial town of Hluboka, Czech Republic during the Christmas period. They are indeed witnessing the evidence of what these youth have congregated to celebrate - changing times.

From San Francisco to Sudan, from Germany to Jordan, and from New Zealand to Namibia, youth from over thirty countries around the world came together with harmony and love for the weeklong Changing Times European Youth Forum. Begun by individual initiative, and made successful by the power of our beautiful and unique Faith, each event meets an uncompromised standard of distinguished and carefully chosen speakers, performers and workshop facilitators and this year's seminar was certainly no exception.

Former Universal House of Justice member, Mr. Nakhjavani and his wife Mrs. Nakhjavani blessed and inspired participants with their beloved presence. Along with his excellent insights into world order, the Covenant and the power of divine assistance, Mr. Nakhjavani shared his precious memories of his early years in the Holy Land while Mrs. Nakhjavani honoured participants with a moving and memorable tribute to the Hand of the Cause of God, Amatu'l-Baha Ruhiyyih Khanum. The dynamic and powerful Mr. Habib Riazati from Los Angeles created an opportunity for participants to critically and devoutly delve into topics such as the role of youth today, the nature of religion, of this Revelation and its relationship to other world religions. A series of talks describing, in an entertaining and palatable way, the World Order of Baha'u'llah, were presented by Italian National Spiritual Assembly member Mr. Robiati. And the insightful and timely presentations by psychiatrist Dr Peseschkian on self- reflection and work-life balance only complemented an already robust program. The talks were supplemented by workshops whose topics ranged from consumerism to communication, from responding to public inquiries about the Faith to drama, and from leadership to Shoghi Effendi as a student. As always, the programme was a dynamic blend of insights, memories, philosophy, and faith.

Each day began with a well prepared and beautiful devotional, using music and prayer to lift our spirits and inspire our minds every morning; each evening provided either unforgettable drama performances by Keith Sabri of Australia, memorable tributes, or thought-provoking lectures. And on the final night of the conference - an evening of entertainment where participants from many countries were invited to showcase their talents left all participants feeling both spiritually refreshed and emotionally satisfied. This truly was a night to remember, not only for its content: from comedy sketches to witty moderators, from live music to a hilarious spoof newsreel; but also for it being truly representative of the amazing spirit the conference had fostered, as harsh yet witty impersonation of the speakers was met with hearty laughter and acceptance from its 'victims'.

This spirit was indeed evident throughout the conference - there was rarely a dull moment outside the main seminar room, as speakers would sit with the joyous and energized youth during free time and answer their questions. The programme was supported by activities which allowed this to flourish; healthy doses of scheduled free time were filled with trips to the local town or castle, salsa and capoeira workshops, a cafe open till late every night, live music, dances and sports/backgammon tournaments. All these activities and the wonderful venue of the Townshend International School campus added to, but were not essential prerequisites for, the atmosphere of unity found throughout the conference.

In summary, this year's conference was truly yet another success. The participants were lit with the fire of love for each other, for humanity, and for their Faith, and this blaze was able to light the cold winter town of Hluboka and the hometowns of all the participants throughout the world. For all, this is but a glimpse of Changing Times.

By Dr. Sam Kayani – participant of the Changing Times Session 2004-2005