Who is your spiritual family?

“The family is not an isolated unit. Around it stands a wider network of relationships—grandparents, uncles and aunts, cousins, friends, neighbours—each of which can provide support, encouragement, and guidance, contributing to a spirit of unity and cooperation.”

– Universal House of Justice, March 19, 2025

The American Bahá’í asked readers a simple question: name one person outside of your immediate family who has helped form your spiritual identity, and briefly explain why.

The responses reveal the profound impact of mentors, teachers and friends across generations –individuals whose love, example, and guidance have helped shape the lives of others in lasting ways. A common thread in each response is deep gratitude for those souls who draw them closer to God, journey with them in exploring spiritual questions, and walk alongside them on a path of service.

Melody, 13

Illinois

There is a wonderful woman named Mathlida who has guided me when I had questions or didn’t know what to do. She always brightens my day with her kindness and joy, and she truly lives the Bahá’í teachings through the way she loves and includes everyone. Mathlida has encouraged me, given me advice, and helped me grow.

Jamie, 20

New York

Babak was the first person I’ve met who answered the cries of my existentialism. For a long time, I felt sedated, listless and helpless in life. A turning point for me was when Babak told me in our first Ruhi book study that humanity’s purpose is to know God and to worship Him. He assured me that service to humanity and individual development are intimately intertwined and mutually reinforcing. Over time, these talks slowly opened my eyes and I formed a new vibrant lens on life. Now, I am armed with a sense of purpose to help unite humanity under one banner of love and solidarity. I am forever grateful to consider Babak not just a tutor, friend, but also another dear member of my ever-growing Bahá’í family.

Denise, 76

Minnesota

I consider my maternal grandmother to be my spiritual mentor. She was a devout Catholic in the best sense of the term. She was a faithful attendee at Mass and holy day observances [and] she really lived her faith. She volunteered at church, was generous in helping other people [and] cared deeply for her family and friends. When she prayed, it was apparent that she was really communicating with God. Hers was a rich spiritual life that I strive to emulate.

Joachin, 21

Colorado

My good friend, Dayyan, has shaped my spiritual identity by always being a true friend. Because of him, I’ve felt comfortable asking questions about spiritual reality, getting advice, and growing in my understanding of service. His example has shown me that friendship can be a space where faith is strengthened, conversations about God feel natural, and encouragement to serve others is part of everyday life. Through our friendship, I’ve learned that spirituality isn’t just personal, it’s something we build together in community.

Morgan, 48

Minnesota

Nineteen years ago, my Iranian Bahá’í neighbors Ehsan and Rezvan welcomed my family to the neighborhood. Lovely spiced food and delectable fruit, boat outings and volleyball games became yearly traditions as my children grew. As a new mother I was searching for a faith village that would help me find a loving community with a more inclusive and global approach to spirituality. As a friend of the faith, I led children’s classes and attended Ayyám-i-Há and Naw-Rúz celebrations. Last year my oldest daughter and I became members of the Bahá’í Faith. This journey took time and reflection and is something I am immensely proud of.

Luis, 18

California

One person that has guided me and helped me overcome many challenges is my previous junior youth animator, Cameron. I struggled with commitment and would often miss many activities. Cameron has helped me to remain steadfast in [not only] Bahá’í activities, but also in my life.

Max, 23 

New York 

The person I want to mention is my grandmother Joanna, who passed away in January 2024. She was a huge example of radiant acquiescence and patience for me and my family. She always knew how to make everyone laugh, and she never let anyone undermine her sense of justice.

Katherine, 66

Texas

During desegregation, white teachers were [switched] with the Black teachers at our high school. It was an uncomfortable situation. One new teacher was Mrs. Dobbins. She was tall and elegant, kind and knowledgeable, and withstood the duress of unacceptance from faculty and students alike. No one wanted to be integrated – it was a rough environment. On top of that, I caught the measles, spent two weeks recuperating, and failed her class. I had to repeat the class, and I hated it and her! I soon became driven to find out about religion and asked many of my teachers about their thoughts on the topic. When I asked Mrs. Dobbins what Faith she believed in, she told me about the Bahá’í Faith. I was stunned at first because I had never come across the Bahá’í Faith in my quest. We became friends and co-religionists. Mrs. Dobbins’ education of me about Black and white relations, about marginal and insulated communities, forever steered me into a greater understanding of aiding the relationships between Black and white. I am grateful for the privilege of having been her friend.

Olivia, 19

New York

One person who has helped me with my spiritual journey is Sophia. She is a fellow youth and is a person I greatly admire. Her willingness to serve, joy in moments of difficulty, and courageousness in face of new experiences have been a light in my life. By simply being herself, she is a clear example that humanity is one human family, where we should radiate loving kindness to all who may cross our paths.