A study circle is a small group of people that meets regularly to study, reflect and act together. Anyone aged fifteen or older, whether a Bahá’í or not, is welcome to take part. The purpose of the study circles is to develop the participants’ spiritual and intellectual skills so as to contribute to the transformation of their communities starting with their own neighborhood. The study circle is done through systematic study of a sequence of courses based on the Bahá’í Writings using the courses of the Ruhi Institute.
The first in the sequence of the Ruhi Institute is Book 1, which is called ”Reflections on the Life of the Spirit”. It examines spiritual matters such as prayer, meditation, life and death and the development of the soul. Currently the Ruhi Institute has already developed the main sequence of courses up to Book 14.
The study circle is brought together by a tutor who facilitates the study. Tutors do not hold any special status. They are simply those who are further along in their study of the materials. Everyone can potentially serve as a tutor on some occasions, while taking part as a participant of a study circle on others. All those participating are seen as active agents of their own learning, and tutors strive to create an atmosphere that encourages individuals to assume ownership for the educational process in which they are engaged.
Study circles are held in an uplifting environment conducive to the spiritual empowerment of individuals. So the role of the tutor is not to impart knowledge, but to assist discussion. Study circles feature participatory learning, involving discussion with others, and the use of the arts.
“A distinguishing feature of study circles is that in many countries, and across diverse cultures, they have created a new dynamic within the community and have become nuclei of community life and catalysts for teaching, service, and community development. In addition to study of the institute courses, the members of the study circle, both Bahá’ís and non-Bahá’ís often participate in service and extracurricular activities that bind the group together in fellowship and attract others to this mode of learning.” International Teaching Centre, 2000 Feb, Training Institutes and Systematic Growth, p. 7
You are invited to take inspiration from these kinds of study circles, benefiting from whatever gems of wisdom and knowledge will help you to address the challenges you face.
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