The Guardian's Guidebook on the Divine Plan

Fri Jan 9th 2026 4:00pm - Sun 11th 4:00pm

Join us for an immersive journey through Shoghi Effendi's masterpiece "The Advent of Divine Justice" - his groundbreaking 1938 message to the Bahá’ís of the United States and Canada. This lengthy Christmas-Day letter by the Faith's Guardian is a moral treatise as well as a Bahá’í charter on teaching. This course plunges into the letter's many rich themes, including an appreciation of the precise use of language and the distinctive style of its author.

Each session begins with short lectures unpacking sections of the text, followed by collaborative small group discussions. Through this guided approach, participants will develop:

• Increased confidence as a citizen in an emerging global order;
• Capacity to apply divine teachings in contemporary contexts; and
• Meaningful connections with others on the same spiritual journey.

Join us in examining this transformative work that continues to guide and inspire Bahá'í communities worldwide.

Daniel B. Lord was a Bahá’í pioneer to the Mariana Islands and Korea with his wife Jung-Sook and their three children, and has lived in Alaska for the last 25 years. He holds master’s degrees in education and clinical psychology and a Ph.D. in educational psychology. He has also studied law and will retire soon as a senior attorney. His initial interests in the Bahá’í Faith stemmed from a magnetic attraction to the writings of Shoghi Effendi. He has facilitated many seminars and workshops for Bahá’í communities in different countries.

HOUSING - PRIVATE APARTMENTS. https://drbi.org/facilities-and-rentals

Registration includes staying in the on-site dormitories.

Each dormitory wing sleeps 20 (20 for men, 20 for women) and includes a commercial bathroom with showers. The dormitory is rustic, but comfortable.

Link to dormitories - https://drbi.org/facilities-and-rentals#guf

Click here for a photo of the dorms.

If you would prefer to rent a private apartment, these can be booked separately using the link bit.ly/drbi-rentals. Apartments fill up quickly and are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, so book quickly.

If apartments are full and you prefer not to stay in the dormitory, here is a list of nearby hotels.

Alternatively, we have boondocking-style RV parking for guests and volunteers at no additional cost. These have no power or hookups, just a water and dump station.

https://drbi.org/facilities-and-rentals#camp

MEALS

Registration includes 6 meals.

Event Schedule:

Friday

- 4:00-6:00 PM - Registration

- 6:00-7:00 PM - Dinner

- 7:00-8:00 PM - Orientation and Introduction

Saturday

- 8:00 - 9:00 AM - Breakfast

- 9:00 - 12:30 PM - Sessions

- 12:30 - 2:00 PM - Lunch

- 2:00 - 6:00 PM - Sessions

- 6:00 - 7:00 PM - Dinner

- 7:00 - 8:00 PM - Music/Arts

Sunday

- 8:00 - 9:00 AM - Breakfast

- 9:00 - 12:30 AM - Sessions

- 12:30 - 2:00 PM - Lunch

- 2:00 - 4:00 PM - Final session & farewell

Introduction to Desert Rose Winter and Spring Programs:

Our winter and spring retreats at Desert Rose focus on the in-depth study of core spiritual literature and historical texts. Set in the serene desert environment of Arizona, we enjoy a perfect winter retreat environment. These programs provide ain ideal opportunity for reflection, learning, and community engagement.

Fees, Prerequisites, and Materials:

Attendees are required to register in advance, with fees covering all sessions, meals, and materials. Specific prerequisites for participation and a list of materials to be studied will be provided upon registration.

Transportation:

DRBI does not yet own a shuttle van but numerous shuttle and Uber options exist from the Phoenix airport only 45 minutes away.

Donations:

Support for our programs is greatly appreciated, and additional donations can be made to help us continue offering these enriching experiences. https://givebutter.com/drbiffa