The principle universally applicable is that non-Bahá'ís are
not invited to the Nineteen Day Feast. If in Persia it has happened that
non-Bahá'ís are present at a Nineteen Day Feast this is an exception and not a
rule. It is well understood in Persia that if a non-Bahá'í should inadvertently
attend a Nineteen Day Feast he would be treated courteously. However, it is
equally important for the friends to understand that they should refrain from
inviting non-Bahá'ís to these special gatherings, ordained by Bahá'u'lláh not
only for spiritual refreshment and unity, but also for consultation between the
Spiritual Assembly and the body of believers on the domestic affairs of the
community.
- The Universal House of Justice (4 February 1974 written by the Universal House of Justice a Local
Spiritual Assembly; compilation: The Compilation of Compilations vol. I)