Once a month, about 30 adults and children gather together in Kanata
Lakes for “Soul Food Sunday”. The gathering combines readings
from the world’s great faiths with reflections from leading
philosophers, authors, and thinkers, interspersed with live and
recorded music. Participants often bring and share readings and music
that inspire them.
Following the devotional program participants stay for the BBQ dinner
allowing for informal conversation, getting to know their neighbours
better, and nurturing new friendships.
Inspiration, rejuvenation, motivation, purpose, meaning—all are
essential elements of a balanced and spiritual life. Yet, during our
daily routines, we are sometimes hard-pressed to find these elements.
The Word of God, says the Bahá'í writings, provides inspiration,
rejuvenates souls, gladdens hearts, and renews one’s sense of purpose.
Therefore, Bahá’ís host devotional gatherings to take advantage of such
benefits through prayer, the reading together of scriptures, and to
create an environment of unity and harmony.
Prayer is a central element in all religious traditions and gatherings
such as Soul Food stress its universal nature. Soul Food provides an
opportunity for people in the community, regardless of their religious
background, to come together and seek opportunities to explore their
spiritual development, unite in a tranquil environment, and reflect on
inspiring themes and common threads that tie us all together.
For those who came together on June 26th the event became a refreshing
respite from the tasks of everyday life. Participants were able to
meditate on spiritual principles and gain some perspective on how these
principles can be applied to their day-to-day affairs, and inspire them
to transform their lives, their neighborhoods and communities, with
actions that promote the unity and betterment of society.
