Teaching The Baha’i Faith Electronically - Part 2

I ended my last article with my discovery of the National Baha'i BBS. I soon learned that not only was the Baha'i presence online was growing but so was my online understanding. On this BBS were many of the Baha'i writings for download. It did take a bit of time with a 2400 baud modem and long distance charges but it was well worth it.

I soon found many helpful files at various BBS sites. The OnLine Bible and the Qur'an. With these tools, my ability to present the Baha'i Faith greatly improved. The downside was that some accused me of "cut and paste" theology because I would cut exact quotes and insert them into my correspondences. While the phrase was, I believe, an insult, I took it as a compliment. I was having a great deal of fun and learning much in the process. I could be found on a number of different religious topics but the one I was most active on was on WildNet. As time went on I became on of the moderators. It was also at this time that I started my own BBS. Sadly, there was so much conflict on the WildNet Religious topic that it was eventually shut down. The reasons for this were many and it is of little consequence now. It was a learning experience, one I am grateful for.

Then Came The INTERNET

I really can't remember who my first Internet Provider was, but I do know I played around with AOL, CompuServe, and a few other major players in the beginning. Price and disconnects frustrated me. I then discovered that two local BBS Sysop's (System Operators) had started a local Provider Service called Surfari.net. The price was right, the service was good and when you called their office you got to talk to a real human being. Plus, I liked the idea of supporting a local business instead.

Once on the net I discovered various news-groups. I would like to list some and give my impression of each, but I do urge anyone interested to investigate for themselves.

alt.religion.bahai - Not moderated, as far as I have been able to tell, this newsgroup has a selection of participants that range from Baha'is, friends of the Baha'i Faith, to those truly seeking information about the faith, to critics of the Baha'i Faith. The topics cover a wide range, as do the points of view. I can only take much of the postings in small doses and don't post much to it anymore.

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