THE 200th anniversary of the birth of Bahá'u'lláh is being celebrated by the Bahai faith groups in Evesham and Pershore.

The Bahai faith believe that Bahá'u'lláh was born in 1817 and is latest manifestation of God.

The Bahá'í faith is one of the youngest of the world's major religions.

It was founded by Bahá'u'lláh in Iran in 1863 and Bahá'u'lláh himself stated that he is not God's final messenger.

Farahnaz and Paul Mahony, who live in Evesham, hold monthly discussions and devotional meetings on the first Thursday of each month at their home.

Mrs Mahony said: "We discuss current issues in the world and invite visitors to share their opinions and then we say what we think.

"We get about 15 people along each time at these gatherings.

"Where we differ from other religions is that we believe Bahá'u'lláh is not the final messenger of God.

"Bahá'ís believe that there is only one real religion, which is the religion of God. The different faiths we see in the world are different approaches to that religion.

"Baha'i beliefs address such essential themes as the oneness of God and religion, the oneness of humanity and freedom from prejudice, the progressive revelation of religious truth and the development of spiritual qualities.

"They also teach the fundamental equality of the sexes, the harmony between religion and science, the centrality of justice to all human endeavours, the importance of education, and the dynamics of the relationships that are to bind together individuals, communities, and institutions as humanity advances towards its collective maturity."

The group hold activities in Worcestershire, including children classes, junior youth classes and classes for the youth and adults based on spiritual principles.

They recently planted trees in the grounds of Holland House, near Evesham to mark the bicentenary of Bahá'u'lláh's birth.

Contact Mrs Mahony on 01386 882930 for further information.