wfn.org | BWNS -- Radio program builds bridges of understanding

[Baha'i World News Service <bwns@bwc.org>]

Baha'i World News Service
See the report on the BWNS site at http://news.bahai.org
For more information, contact editor@bahaiworldnews.org

Radio program builds bridges of understanding
THURSDAY ISLAND, QUEENSLAND, Australia, 21 November 2005 (BWNS) -- A
weekly Baha'i radio program is building bridges of understanding across
the more than 100 islands of the Torres Strait in the far north of
Australia.

Aimed at providing a service to the Baha'i community scattered
throughout the islands, the program is now also attracting participation
by many of the majority Christian population.

The program uses a talkback format and functions as an on-air study
circle, based on a self-directed approach to training adopted by Baha'i
communities worldwide.

In a study circle, participants read through selected passages from the
Baha'i writings together, and share their understandings with the
guidance of a facilitator.

The program is broadcast on Thursday Island community radio station 4MW,
which is listened to by some 85 per cent of Torres Strait residents.

Titled "Baha-Bi-Buiya," which means "Light-Light-Light" in the two main
dialects of the Torres Strait and in Arabic, the program has been
broadcast now for more than a year.

Local Baha'is Janelle Gebadi and Margaret Gabey  host the program, with
the support of back-up presenter Ina Aiputa.

The presenters read the passages from the Baha'i writings and then the
audience participates in what are often lively discussions.

Ms. Gebadi said that when the show started, people were slow to
participate but that has completely changed.

"Now people are asking so many questions," she said, adding that she
thinks it is good that people find the program so interesting.

"Each week we try and make people understand or (become) aware of the
Baha'i Faith because sometimes people misunderstand the Faith," she
said.

Joanne Thompson, a local resident, said there have been many benefits
from the program.

"It is helping to break down the barriers," she said.

"In the beginning there was open hostility to the program but now more
and more people are starting to ask questions-- more people are turning
up to our functions."

"I am staggered at the content, the nurturing and the courage that these
magnificent ladies (present) over the airwaves," she said.

(Story adapted from "Australian Baha'i Report.")