August 04, 2003
Summer Session Off to a Strong Start

In spite of Airport-closing thunderstorms and a power outage in the classroom, the Wilmette Institute’s eighth summer session of the Spiritual Foundations for a Global Civilization began Saturday afternoon. Eight students from across the United States and one from South Korea were present for orientation and the opening class by Nader Saiedi, on the Bahá'í Authoritative Texts as they relate to the establishment of a new world order. After supper Martha Schweitz, J.D., spoke about the peace statement and the Bahá'í approach to world peace. Their classes continue through Monday. Other speakers this week include:

Nancy Davis, about how to create a curriculum for classes and courses on the Faith. (Monday and Tuesday afternoons)

Dr. Richard Thomas, on the oneness of humanity and the equality of races and genders (Wednesday)

Dr. Jaleh Dashti-Gibson, about the Bahá'í approach to political order (Thursday)

Dr. Craig Loehle, about science and religion (Friday morning)

Robert Stockman, Th.D., about Bahá'í history and community development, 1963 to the present (Thursday evening and Friday afternoon)

Morris Taylor, about how to teach the Faith effectively. (Saturday)

The number of students planning to participate has grown considerably in the last few days. But it is still possible to attend the entire session and dormitory space is still available. Tuition is $450 and lodging costs another $120. As in previous years, auditors will also be welcome; the costs are $75 per day or $25 per session (morning, afternoon, or evening). The charges are necessary to cover the high costs of flying in speakers, accommodating them, and feeding them.

The entire day-to-day schedule is available here. Classes will be held at the former Bahá'í Home in Wilmette. If you have any questions, contact the Wilmette Institute at 877-wilmette (877-945-6388) or info@wilmetteinstitute.org. Chicago-area people can audit specific classes or days for a fee.