An educational endeavour drawing on the teachings of Bahá'u'lláh.
The Training Institute of Ontario serves the communities of Ontario by offering, supporting, and learning about a sequence of courses through which a population builds capacity for service. We draw inspiration from the teachings of the Bahá'í Faith, and we are open, in every sense, to all.
Our vision
We hold that every human being is born with a capacity to know, to love, and to serve. We hold that this capacity, properly cultivated, is the basic resource on which the progress of any society depends. And we hold that the cultivation of that capacity is the work not only of individuals on their own, but of communities in which individuals find encouragement, accompaniment, and a shared purpose.
The Institute exists to support that cultivation. We do so through a sequence of courses, through the activities those courses give rise to — children's classes, junior youth groups, study circles, devotional gatherings — and through the patient accompaniment of friends as they take up these activities in their own neighbourhoods.
Our approach
We approach this work as learners. There is no template, no formula, no programme that can be dropped from above onto a neighbourhood and made to grow. Every Ontario neighbourhood is its own context. We listen carefully, study with friends, reflect on what is being learned, and adjust our practice. We pay particular attention to the experience of communities elsewhere — in Canada and around the world — that have walked further along the same path.
A few common questions.
Do I have to be a Bahá'í to take part?
No. The Institute's activities are open to anyone who wishes to take part, in any capacity — as participant, host, tutor, animator, parent, or friend.
Is there a cost?
No. The activities are offered without charge. They are supported by voluntary contributions from the Bahá'í community.
Is the Institute proselytizing?
The Bahá'í community holds firmly that recognition of Bahá'u'lláh is a spiritual decision that is the private affair of every soul. We share our beliefs openly and respect entirely the freedom of conscience of every person we meet.
Is this affiliated with a particular Bahá'í institution?
The Training Institute is the educational agency that serves the Bahá'í community of Ontario and its friends and neighbours. It is supported in its work by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Canada and the Regional Bahá'í Council for Ontario.