As we look into the 21st Century, with an awareness of the achievements of the last 100 years, it is hard to ignore the worsening condition of our world, our country, and the community in which we live. Our surrounding gives constant evidence to the moral and social decline. We know we cannot mend the failing current order; we can only build a new one in its stead.

The guidance given to us from all arenas of our Faith leaves no room for uncertainty or doubt. If we ask ourselves, "What type of Bahá'í do I want to be" all means and methods are provided in the Holy Writings and the constant loving guidance from the Bahá'í World Centre. Our development starts to take shape purely through our acceptance of Bahá'u'lláh and His Healing Message and our individual commitment to His Laws and Ordinances.

In preparation for the year's Schools the Programme Committee has turned to our Beloved Guardian for inspiration. It is our hope that the participants will be inspired by the same wealth of guidance as to the purpose of the Summer Schools.

   "..every Bahá'í Summer School should, combine the threefold features of devotion, study and recreation. Only through such harmonious combination of these three elements can the institution of the Summer school yield the maximum of beneficent results, and fulfil its true function of deepening the knowledge, stimulating the zeal, and fostering the spirit of fellowship among the believers in every Bahá'í community."

The Beloved Guardian clearly gives us direction in the format of learning at Summer Schools:

   "Also it should afford the believers themselves an opportunity to deepen their knowledge of the Teachings, through lectures and discussions and by means of close and intense community life."

Therefore in moving closer to this vision the Residential Schools Programme Committee have developed a new style programme in order to create more of an atmosphere of learning for all ages whilst creating a living model of the Bahá'í community life, which the present-day society is yearning for. The residents will be able to choose from a variety of courses, which will last for the duration of the School. All generations will be provided with opportunities to interact in a spiritual, educational and recreational way.

Together we can look forward to fulfilling this 'vision'. The schools are the living the reality of the World Order of Bahá'u'lláh, a sacred gift that we have been entrusted to share. We look forward to sharing with you this vision and working together closely in developing our Summer School

Loving Bahá'í greetings,
Residential Schools Committee