Bahá'í House of Worship | Evanston

The Bahá'í House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois, is one of the most architecturally and spiritually significant landmarks in the United States. Known for its breathtaking design and profound symbolic meaning, it is the oldest Bahá’í temple still standing and the only one in North America. It is not only a place of worship but also a monument to the Bahá’í principles of unity, peace, and the oneness of humanity.

Overview

Location: 100 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois, just north of Evanston, along the Lake Michigan shoreline.

Established: Cornerstone laid in 1912; completed and dedicated in 1953.

Function: Open to people of all faiths; intended for prayer and meditation, not sermons or rituals.

Admission: Free and open to the public every day.

Historical Background

ʻAbdu’l-Bahá, the son of the founder of the Bahá’í Faith, visited the U.S. in 1912 and personally laid the cornerstone for the temple.

Construction was a lengthy process, beginning seriously in the 1920s but delayed by the Great Depression and World War II.

After over 40 years of fundraising and construction efforts, the temple was completed in 1953 and has since been a center for spiritual reflection and public admiration.

Spiritual and Philosophical Significance

The Bahá’í Faith emphasizes the unity of all religions, the equality of humanity, and the harmony of science and religion.

The temple is designed to embody these values:

Open to all: Regardless of religion, ethnicity, or background.

Readings from all faiths: Services include texts from the world’s major religions, reflecting their spiritual unity.

No clergy or sermons: Worship is intended to be direct and personal.

Architectural Features

Architect: Louis Bourgeois (French-Canadian).

Structure:

Nine-sided building (a nonagon), symbolizing completeness and unity.

Nine entrances represent openness to all directions and people.

The central dome rises to 135 feet and is adorned with intricate patterns and symbols from various faiths.

Material: Made of a unique white concrete mix using crushed quartz, giving the building a luminous, ethereal glow.

Ornamentation: Delicate and lace-like, featuring religious symbols including the Christian cross, the Star of David, the Islamic crescent, and Zoroastrian and Hindu motifs.

Interior: Under the central dome is the Greatest Name, a calligraphic Arabic rendering of a phrase invoking the glory of God, central in Bahá’í spiritual language.

Gardens and Grounds

The temple is surrounded by nine meticulously landscaped gardens, each with its own fountain, symbolizing the life-giving force of spirit and water.

Paths and benches provide quiet areas for meditation and relaxation.

The gardens, carefully designed to reflect harmony and order, are maintained year-round and are a popular destination in all seasons.

Visitor Amenities

Welcome Center:

Includes interactive displays, educational exhibits, and short videos about the Bahá’í Faith and the temple’s construction.

Staffed by knowledgeable volunteers and members of the Bahá’í community.

Restrooms, seating areas, and accessible pathways are available throughout the site.

Parking: Free on-site parking is available.

Public Transit Access: Easily accessible via the CTA Purple Line (Linden Station is a short walk away).

Devotional Programs and Events

Daily Devotions: Held at 12:30 PM and 5:30 PM, consisting of readings and prayers from multiple religions (no sermons or commentary).

Special Events:

Choral Festivals, Interfaith Celebrations, and Bahá’í Holy Day observances are held throughout the year.

Events are often free and open to the public.

Quiet Hours: The building is always open for quiet personal prayer and meditation.

Architectural Recognition

The Bahá’í Temple has been designated a National Historic Landmark due to its cultural, historical, and architectural importance.

It is frequently cited in architecture journals and travel guides as one of the most beautiful and unique buildings in the United States.

The structure has influenced other Bahá’í temples around the world, though each one reflects local styles and traditions.

In Summary

The Bahá'í House of Worship in Wilmette is more than a religious building; it is a sanctuary for peace, unity, and beauty. Whether you are drawn to it for its magnificent architecture, its peaceful gardens, or its spiritual inclusiveness, the temple welcomes all visitors with open arms. It stands as a beacon of universal connection and contemplation—a rare space where all people can gather in shared reverence, regardless of belief.