This weekend there are a hundred and fifty "Unit Conventions" held across the United States. It is an opportunity for thousands of Baha'is to gather together and consult and have fellowship: https://www.bahai.us/community/news...ntion-in-october-exercising-a-high-privilege/ Unit Conventions are held in various areas to elect delegates to the National Convention next April (Ridvan) in the Chicago area. The National Convention elects a new nine member National Spiritual Assembly and consults are various issues. Unit Conventions are held in Canada as well: http://www.uc-cc.bahai.ca/en/guidance/ Baha'is in my area met today in a nearby community and we had consultation and elected a delegate to represent us at the National Convention. One of the advantages of holding these gatherings is that we learn more about other communities around us: What kinds of issues they face and what are some of the strengtrhs they have.