In 1950, the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'i of the United States (the U.S Baha'i governing body) initiated the first World Religion Day. Looking to address the need for religious unity, this day was created to call attention to various religion's ideologies, traditions and customs.

Each year, on the third Sunday of January, the Baha'i hosts interfaith discussions, conferences and other events in hopes of nurturing a clearer understanding and contact among followers around the world.

The Baha'i promote religion as the motivating power for world harmony. Their message states that:

“Religion should be the cause of love and agreement, a bond to unify all mankind for it is a message of peace and goodwill to man from God” and “Religion is the greatest of all means for the establishment of order in the world and for the peaceful contentment of all that dwell therein.”

Participating faiths include; Native American, Hindu, Jewish, Zoroastrianism, Jain, Buddhist, Shinto, Taoist, Christian, Islam, Sikh, Babi and Baha'i

The message of World Religion is promising and encourages unity. Emphasizing that mankind, having stemmed from one origin, must strive towards reconciling our division and establishing unity based on future goals, not on the errors of the past.

People around the world are encouraged to search for and celebrate the similarities in devotion and not focus on the differences of our beliefs.

Celebrate World Religion Day by being open minded, non-judgmental and genuinely interested in learning more about the beliefs of those around you. Education and knowledge is the best weapon against ignorance and prejudice.