A local television station and news source in Chicago, ABC 7 News, recently held a contest for Illinoisans to vote for the "Seven Wonders of Illinois." A dear employee at the Bahá'í House of Worship in Wilmette saw this promotion and decided to enter the House of Worship into the running! Her action sparked a united effort of Bahá'ís and friends of the Faith from around the country to support the House of Worship, ending in joyful celebration and public recognition.

The month of March was filled with palpable excitement and anticipation as thousands of Bahá'ís and friends of the Faith from across the country cast their online votes for the "Seven Wonders of Illinois." At times, it seemed as though the voting percentages were neck-and-neck, however these percentages failed to dampen the mood and spirit of hope in the Bahá'ís, a spirit which led to ultimate achievement. The Bahá'í House of Worship won recognition as one of the Seven Wonders of Illinois!

The win was first announced at the 98^th Bahá'í National Convention, and was met with instantaneous applause and cheer.

The win was accompanied by local news coverage all morning in Chicago on Tuesday, May 1. The House of Worship choir sang on live television, and the friends who serve at the House of Worship introduced the Temple and the Faith to television viewers across the state.

To view the video coverage of the Seven Wonders of Illinois, including a charming introduction to the House of Worship, please visit: http://www.enjoyillinois.com/sevenwonders/.