A junior youth group, or “JYG”, as they are sometimes called, is a group of youth that meets regularly with the purpose of fostering each member’s spiritual development. Meetings are carried out in a supportive environment, allowing group members to voice their thoughts and opinions while at the same time learn to understand the wider implications of their beliefs. The group’s leader, referred to as an “animator”, accompanies group members as they engage in a variety of activities which will help them to accomplish this goal.

 Together the group studies materials from a curriculum which has been developed to introduce critical moral concepts and simultaneously enhance the member’s power of expression. While each of the books in the curriculum explores universal spiritual principles, they have been developed around the world and provide members with an opportunity to explore cultural aspects of each society from an uplifting perspective.

Groups plan and engage in service and social activities, allowing members to practice the concepts which they have studied, and to develop new skills. As the group members grow and develop, so too does the level and complexity of group activities.

“I hope that each one of you will become just, and direct your thoughts towards the unity of mankind; that you will never harm your neighbours nor speak ill of any one; that you will respect the rights of all men, and be more concerned for the interests of others than for your own.”

                                                                     -Abdu'l-Baha