On a cold, Friday evening on February 20th, approximately forty Baha'is and their friends gathered at the pagoda in Patterson Park for a candlelight vigil. The purpose of the vigil was to collectively honor, remember and pray for the safety of the seven Baha'i leaders currently imprisoned and awaiting trial in Iran. Many prayers were sung in unison, beseeching God to bestow steadfastness, faith, and patience on these stalwart believers. The names of the seven Baha'is were read aloud, followed by a moving prayer for the martyrs and their families. The blistering cold and the wind only increased the heat of this gathering, as it symbolized the smallest of sacfirices that we can make in honor of our dear friends in the Cradle of the Faith.

Following the vigil, the participants were invited to the nearby home of Ala and Naseem to warm up with tea and cake. Their warmth and hospitality brought a joyous conclusion to the evening.