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The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís
of the United States and Canada
General Office: 130 Evergreen Place, West Englewood, New Jersey
PRAYER FOR THOSE TAKING THE FAST[edit]
“Thou seest, O God of Mercy, Thou Whose Power pervadeth all things, these servants of Thine, Thy thralls, who, according to the good-pleasure of Thy Will, observe in the daytime the fast prescribed by Thee, who arise, at the earliest dawn of day, to make mention of Thy Name, and to celebrate Thy Praise, in the hope of obtaining their share of the goodly things that are treasured up within the treasuries of Thy grace and bounty. I beseech Thee, O Thou that holdest in Thine hands the reins of the entire creation, in Whose grasp is the whole kingdom of Thy Names and of Thine Attributes, not to deprive, in Thy Day, Thy servants from the showers pouring from the clouds of Thy mercy, nor to hinder them from taking their portion of the ocean of Thy good-pleasure ...” Bahá’u’lláh. (Gleanings, pp. 299-302. Only an excerpt is quoted here).
LETTERS FROM THE GUARDIAN[edit]
1. To the National Spiritual Assembly[edit]
Chief Obligation of National Fund
“Regarding his special contribution to the Teaching Fund; he feels that this is a matter to be left entirely to the discretion of the N. S. A. He believes that the continuous expenditure of a considerable sum to provide for traveling expenses of teachers who are in need constitutes in these days the chief obligation of the National Fund. An effort should be made to facilitate, as much as possible, the extension of the teaching work by helping those who are financially unable to reach their destination, and once there to encourage them to settle and earn the means of their livelihood.”—November 14, 1936.
2. To Individual Bahá’ís[edit]
(Published with the Guardian’s Consent)
To Mrs. Elizabeth Greenleaf, May 31, 1935:
“Without the study and application of the Administration the teaching of the Cause becomes not only meaningless, but loses in effectiveness and scope.”
To Mr. Wilfrid Barton, during 1936:
“Regarding the solution of the racial problem; the believers should of course realize that the principle of the oneness of mankind which is the cornerstone of the message of Bahá’u’lláh is wholly incompatible with all forms of racial prejudice. Loyalty to this foundation principle of the Faith is the paramount duty of every believer and should be therefore whole-hearted and unqualified. For a Bahá’í, racial prejudice, in all its forms, is simply a negation of faith, an attitude wholly incompatible with the very spirit and actual teachings of the Cause.
“But while the friends should faithfully and courageously uphold this Bahá’í principle of the essential unity of all human races, yet in the methods they adopt for its application and further realization on the social plane they should act with tact, wisdom and moderation. These two attitudes are by no means exclusive. Bahá’ís do not believe that the spread of the Cause and its principles and teachings can be effected by means of radical and violent methods. While they are loyal to all those teachings, yet they believe in the necessity of resorting to peaceful and friendly means for the realization of their aims.
“As regards the meaning of the passage on page 188 of the ‘Gleanings’, it is an emphasis by Bahá’u’lláh on the importance of maintaining differences of station and classes in society and does not refer to the question of race.”
To Mr. Alfred E. Lunt, June 26, 1936:
“The Convention’s unanimous and eager response to the Guardian’s call to intense teaching activity is highly encouraging, and constitutes another source of deep satisfaction to his heart. He is now awaiting to see what steps the N. S. A. will devise to carry out, vigorously and systematically, this new teaching campaign, and what cooperation it will receive from individual believers, groups and Assemblies in the fulfilment of its plans.
“As the Guardian’s telegram clearly reveals, this teaching plan has two chief objectives: first, to establish a center in every State within the U. S. A. and then in every State throughout the American continent.
“What the Guardian would strongly advise is, first, to concentrate, heart and soul, on the first part of this teaching program, namely, to have at least one center established in those States of the American Republic where there are as yet no believers. This task can best be accomplished by means of settlement in these States by at least one believer. Intensive teaching work, that is to say, concentration on a few spiritually minded and receptive people, is also a method of teaching which the Guardian would specially recommend to those who wish to fix their residence in such States.
“Regarding your question as to the meaning of Jin or Genii referred to in the Qur’án, these are not beings or creatures that are actually living, but are symbolic references to the power of men of evil and may be likened to evil spirits. But the point to
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bear in mind is that these have no positive existence of any kind.”
To Mrs. Russell, July 28, 1936:
“The number nine, which in itself is the number of perfection, is considered by the Bahá’ís as sacred, because it is symbolic of the perfection of the Bahá’í Revelation which constitutes the ninth in the line of existing religions, the latest and fullest Revelation which mankind has ever known. The eighth is the religion of the Báb and the remaining seven are: Hinduism, Buddhism, Zoroastrianism, Judaism, Christianity, Islám, and the religion of the Sabeans. These religions are not the only true religions that have appeared in the world but are the only ones still existing. There have always been divine Prophets and Messengers, to many of whom the Qur’án refers. But the only ones existing are those mentioned above.
“As regards your question concerning the membership of the Universal House of Justice, there is a Tablet from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in which He definitely states that the membership of the Universal House is confined to men and that the wisdom of it will be fully revealed in the future. In the local, as well as the National Houses of Justice, however, women have the full right of membership. It is, therefore, only to the International House that they cannot be elected. The Bahá’ís should accept this statement of the Master in a spirit of deep faith, confident that there is a divine guidance and wisdom behind it, which will be gradually unfolded to the eyes of the world.”
PUBLIC MEETINGS IN NASHVILLE[edit]
The National Spiritual Assembly met at Nashville, Tenn., for four days beginning January 9, and in addition to its own sessions carried out a teaching schedule arranged by Mrs. Georgie Wiles and Mrs. Marion Little.
Saturday evening, January 9, the members were invited to meet twenty or more inquirers at a private home, and a most interesting discussion of the Faith was carried on.
Sunday afternoon a public meeting was held at Fisk University, with addresses by Allen B. McDaniel and Carl Scheffler, Mountfort Mills, chairman. The Bahá’í were presented to the audience by Dr. Jones, University President.
Monday afternoon a radio talk was given over WSM by Horace Holley. Monday evening a public meeting was held in the ballroom of Hotel Hermitage. After the Bahá’ís were presented to the audience by a prominent woman of Nashville, who recalled having heard ‘Abdu’l-Bahá speak in Chicago, addresses were delivered by Horace Holley and Mountfort Mills. George O. Latimer presided.
A second meeting was held at Hotel Hermitage Tuesday evening, with addresses by Alfred E. Lunt and George O. Latimer, Mountfort Mills presiding.
After all three public meetings, the believers present were asked many questions by members of the audience.
The newspaper publicity was very extensive and favorable in tone.
These meetings, the first held by the N. S. A. in a Southern State, were planned as preliminary to more intensive teaching efforts in the future. One object was to acquire first-hand experience of the special teaching problem existing in the South. The results are to be carefully reviewed by the N. S. A. at its next meeting, with a view to adopting plans and policies making possible a great extension of the Faith in that important area.
Following the meeting at Fisk University, the believers attended a reception held by President and Mrs. Jones, after which they gathered with local and visiting Bahá’ís at the home of Mrs. Smith for supper and Bahá’í consultation.
Three members of the N. S. A. met with the Bahá’ís of Cincinnati Wednesday evening. January 13, for dinner and a program of talks arranged by the local Assembly.
“ULTIMATE REALIZATION”[edit]
Rupert from National Teaching Committee[edit]
“Not until the great enterprise which you are now conducting runs its full course and attains its final objective, at its appointed time, can its world-encompassing benefits be fully apprehended or revealed. The perseverance of the American believers will, no doubt, insure the ultimate realization of these benefits.”—Shoghi Effendi.
Since the inception of our present teaching campaign, the American Bahá’ís have arisen with great enthusiasm and determination to achieve the goal set for us by the Guardian. Thus teaching has gone forwards with increasing intensity by Assemblies, Groups, isolated believers, and individuals, who have so nobly introduced the Faith into new areas. Only now, however, are we as a national community able to release the full force of our teaching energies—as only now have we removed the material restrictions to dynamic teaching services, by finally meeting all our outstanding financial obligations of the recent Temple construction work, and developing a general teaching fund.
The most serious consideration and study should be given anew by every Bahá’í in America to our great responsibility, in the light of the favorable conditions now existing within the Faith, and the path laid before us by Shoghi Effendi himself, for the accomplishment of our task:
- “Torchbearers of Bahá’í civilization ... scatter more widely throughout the length and breadth of the American continents.”
The immediate goal set by the Guardian is the introduction of the Faith into every State in the United States, and every Province in Canada.
Dear Friends, we must achieve victory in this campaign, and achieve the first stages quickly. Everyone must ponder deeply the “Call” to “Pioneer” service and set about to play his or her part in this great spiritual drama. We cannot and will not allow any obstacle to stand in our way! Therefore, any one of the Friends who can “migrate” to one of the States of the United States, or Provinces of Canada, where no Bahá’ís exist, should communicate with the National Teaching Committee, so all arrangements can be quickly made for the important step of “settling” these virgin areas.
Let those who cannot themselves move their residence to virgin soil, bear in mind the heedings of Bahá’u’lláh—“Whoso is unable, it is his duty to appoint him who will, in his stead, proclaim this Revelation.” Clearly the manner of fulfilling this Divine exhortation today, is to actively support the National Fund, so this new Pioneer work may suffer no restrictions from a financial standpoint — and we all, through this united effort, achieve our spiritual destiny as a national community.
“Pioneer” Services[edit]
The Teaching Committee has great happiness in announcing that the first migration of a Bahá’í family to a new State has taken place. Mr. and Mrs. Albert Entzminger, and their two children, of Geyserville, California, have taken residence in Oklahoma City, in order to establish the Faith in Oklahoma.
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The Geyserville Assembly has set
a high standard for the other Assemblies in America, by unitedly supporting this move, and defraying the transportation expenses of the Entzmingers,
from Geyserville to Oklahoma City.
They have considered this as a part of
their Assembly service in this unique
Teaching campaign. There has been
some teaching work done in Oklahoma
City, but no Bahá’ís have been confirmed. Now the Light of Guidance
will be permanently shedding its rays
through these “Pioneer” settlers, and
the Faith will be firmly established.
In previous reports, record has been given of the pioneer work done in Nebraska, the first new State to be opened to the Faith since the Guardian’s call. We are happy to give report of the developments in the work in this State, carried on with such efficiency and success by Gertrude Matteson and Mabel Ives. There is now in Omaha, a flourishing group of seven Believers who are holding public meetings and study classes weekly, and amongst the students, such response and enthusiasm, it is very likely the State of Nebraska will this year have its first Local Spiritual Assembly in Omaha.
Teaching work has been done by these same teachers in Lincoln, where a number of public lectures, radio broadcasts and book exhibits inaugurated a study class, out of which two believers have already enrolled in the American Bahá’í Community.
Thus, two of the twelve States with no Bahá’ís have now resident Believers, and the Faith will, we are sure, rapidly expand in these States.
How wonderful it would be if we could have resident teachers in each of the remaining ten States, before the present Bahá’í year comes to a close!
The Teaching Committee has arranged for a survey of the larger cities in these remaining States, so we may know the most logical locations for Bahá’í settlers, particularly from the standpoint of receptivity to the Faith. This will be carried forward by one of our Bahá’í workers visiting each of these larger cities, interviewing officers of various clubs, newspapers, radio stations, public libraries, etc. If any of the Bahá’ís have contacts of any nature in any of the areas in America, where we now have no believers, it will be a great service to the Faith, if these contacts could be sent to the Teaching Committee.
“Other new Cities opened”[edit]
Lubbock, Texas, which has been awakened to the Teachings through the services of Mr. Roy Wilhelm, for a long time through correspondence, and recently by a personal visit, is another to be added to the roll of cities reflecting the light of this New Day. Two of the students who have had to rely almost entirely upon their own efforts, have become enthusiastic believers and are working more diligently than ever to form a study group.
| CONVENTION ANNOUNCEMENT
The Convention Call, with assignment of delegates, will be issued to local Assemblies in February. Assemblies which have not yet returned the “Notice of Application for Participation in Annual Convention of 1937” are urged to act at once. |
Council Bluffs and Des Moines, Iowa, were also the recipients of the teaching services of Gertrude Matteson and Mabel Ives, with the result that Des Moines already has one believer, and the way has been opened for further work during the winter.
Mrs. Gertrude Struven of Wilmette is carrying on pioneer work in the cities of Moline, and Grand Rapids, Iowa. Miss Marion Holley, with the aid of Miss Beatrice Irwin and others of the Los Angeles Community, is not only conducting a study group in San Bernardino, California, but has initiated teaching activity in Yucaipa and is cooperating with Mr. and Mrs. C. N. Wells, Isolated Believers at Big Bear, California, in interesting their friends in this Faith.
Mr. Raphael Lillywhite, of Laramie, Wyoming, on a recent business trip to Taos, New Mexico, opened still another city to the Teachings of Bahá’u’lláh.
The Regional Teaching Committee for Kansas and Missouri, cooperating with the Assemblies in those States, has planned to follow up contacts in several cities with a view to starting groups wherever the results seem promising. Mrs. Ruth Moffet is assisting with this work.
Los Angeles Assembly has arranged for public lectures in Riverside, California, in order to increase the list of people already interested to the end that a study class may be organized.
“Inter-Community Conferences”[edit]
Testimony that Inter-Community Conferences are vital factors in stimulating teaching activity both in Bahá’í Communities and among isolated believers, is implied in the fact that several areas and Regions have had second and third such conferences. The New England States have held three this Fall, at Hartford, Boston and New Haven.
The Bahá’í Communities of Florida held two such gatherings in December; the New York-New Jersey-Pennsylvania Region held one on December 12th;—while Phoenix, Arizona, was the host to a second Arizona-Southern California Conference January 10th.
“Circuits”[edit]
Nearly all of the Inter-Community Conferences held thus far have resulted in lively teaching circuits, several of which include cities other than Bahá’í Communities.
The New England Circuit, consisting of Worcester, Boston, and New Haven, has thus far presented Mr. Charles Mason Remey, Miss Martha Root, Mr. Mountfort Mills; Miss Root, having included in her program, a large gathering of Federated Women’s Clubs in Kittery, Maine, in November.
The New Jersey circuit includes Jersey City, Montclair, and Newark.
The Ohio-Indiana circuit which includes Pittsburgh, has completed its panel of speakers for the remainder of the Bahá’í year with Mrs. Marzieh Carpenter, Mr. Carl Scheffler, Mr. Mountfort Mills, Miss Pearl Estabrook, and Mr. Louis Gregory.
An eleven day itinerary for Prof. Stanwood Cobb will take him to Urbana and Peoria, as well as the cities in the Chicago area.
“Increasing Assembly Activity”[edit]
While extending their activities into neighboring cities and cooperating with other Assemblies in circuit plans, an ever-increasing number of local Assemblies are reporting more informal study groups and fireside meetings. New York City, which has initiated six new fireside groups, has worked out an interesting circuit of eight discussions, to be followed by all of these groups. One teacher specializes on one of the subjects, and makes the rounds of the various groups, speaking to each group on the same subject. Such a plan provides a leader for each meeting and makes it possible for each to specialize on one subject. It also makes a fine cooperative teaching project for those who feel they can serve as hosts, but cannot lead the discussions which are
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the raison d’être for fireside groups.
“Bahá’í Groups”[edit]
Toronto, Canada has recently achieved an important step toward the establishment of the Faith in that city, the believers having organized a Bahá’í Group which conducts both study classes and public meetings. Mr. George Spendlove, formerly of Washington, D. C., will live in Toronto for some months, and is cooperating most actively with this Group in its effort to attain the status of a Bahá’í Community.
The Capitol District Group at Albany, New York, has conducted several large public meetings during the fall, Mrs. Marzieh Carpenter and Miss Julia Goldman being two of the speakers.
The Glendale, Arizona members of the Phoenix Bahá’í Community have been working diligently toward the goal of a local Spiritual Assembly in their city. An interesting report tells of the manner in which the friends are cooperating with a local peace group so that it now uses Bahá’í literature for references purposes, and has used the “Prayer for all Nations” at some of its meetings.
Miss Charlotte Dakin of Claremont, California, a new member of the American Bahá’í Community, has been invited to give an address on the Bahá’í Faith at Scripps College of that city as a part of a course on “The Religious Mind”.
Mrs. Lucy B. Swindler, an isolated believer, living at Magnolia, Illinois, holds frequent meetings at her home, with assistance from members of the Urbana Community.
The friends in Southern California are happy to have Mrs. Elizabeth Greenleaf with them during the winter, where she will aid them in their teaching plans.
| BRITISH BAHA’IS CABLE SYMPATHY
This loving message, intended especially for the flood sufferers, is a beautiful testimony to the oneness of the Baha’i world community. A contribution of $100 has been sent the National Red Cross by the American N. S. A. on behalf of the American believers. |
The foregoing are but some of the evidences of the stirring of new life within the body of the Believers. While most encouraging, yet in view of our supreme task, we realize our efforts up to date, are just but a beginning of the wave of spiritual vigor the American Bahá’í Community will show ere this campaign reaches its height. It is as ‘Abdu’l-Bahá has stated in “America’s Spiritual Mission”: “Up to this time you have displayed great magnanimity, but after this, ye must add a thousand times to your effort ... The circle of your exertion must become widened. The more it is broadened and extended, the greater will be your confirmation.” ... “At present your confirmation is not known and understood. Ere long ye shall observe that each one of you, like unto a brilliant and shining star, will diffuse the light of guidance from that horizon and that he has become the cause of eternal life to the inhabitants of America.”
THE NON-POLITICAL CHARACTER OF THE BAHA’I FAITH[edit]
Since the question of voting in civil elections has again been raised by a few local Assemblies, the N. S. A. publishes once more the final instruction received from the Guardian on that subject. It was printed in BAHÁ’Í NEWS No. 80, January, 1934, together with other excerpts from the Guardian’s letters.
“The friends may vote, if they can do it, without identifying themselves with one party or another. To enter the arena of party politics is surely detrimental to the best interests of the Faith and will harm the Cause. It remains for the individuals to so use their right to vote as to keep aloof from party politics, and always bear in mind that they are voting on the merits of the individual, rather than because he belongs to one party or another. The matter must be made perfectly clear to the individuals, who will be left free to exercise their discretion and judgment. But if a certain person does enter into party politics and labors for the ascension of one party over another, and continues to do it against the expressed appeals and warnings of the Assembly, then the Assembly has the right to refuse him the right to vote in Bahá’í elections.”
RULINGS OF THE N. S. A.[edit]
That teachers visiting new areas should always have a proper letter of credentials showing that the teacher has authority to hold Bahá’í meetings.
That the National Assembly makes a distinction between public and non-public teaching activities, attempting no jurisdiction over non-public teaching activities outside the jurisdiction of local Assemblies, but in the case of public teaching activities, the National Spiritual Assembly lays down the controlling regulation that in any area outside the jurisdiction of local Assemblies, teachers are not to hold public Bahá’í meetings involving the name of the Cause without the recognition and approval of the Regional Committee, or of the National Teaching Committee, depending upon the area of jurisdiction, and that all such public meetings are to be held under the sponsorship of the proper Teaching Committee.
That local Assemblies, or individual teachers, when using any descriptive reference to the Cause, or direct description of the Cause in public announcements, are to confine themselves to terms used by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá or the Guardian. In the view of the N. S. A. the Cause should be referred to only as the Bahá’í Faith or as the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh.
Applications for funds received by the N. S. A. for traveling expenses of teachers will be referred to the National or Regional Teaching Committee (or Inter-America Committee), depending on the jurisdiction in each case, for investigation and recommendation.
Local Assemblies are requested to report to the National Teaching Committee the names and addresses of voting believers who live outside the civil community so that such believers may be recorded on future teaching maps, and their names supplied to Regional Teaching Committees. The purpose of this request is to increase the number of centers where special teaching work can be carried on with the cooperation of the individual, or individuals, already in residence.
IN MEMORIAM[edit]
Death proffereth unto every confident believer the cup that is life indeed. It bestoweth joy, and is the bearer of gladness. It conferreth the gift of everlasting life.—Bahá’u’lláh.
- Mr. William Z. Ralph, Portland, Oregon.
- Miss A. R. Phipps, Oriskany, N. Y.
- Mrs. Cunningham, Montreal, Quebec.
- Mrs. A. B. Spear, Los Angeles, Calif.
- Mrs. Phoebe R. Nelson, Chicago, Ill.
- Mrs. Elizabeth R. Wilkinson, Brookline, Mass.
- Mr. Elmor Duckett, Los Angeles, Calif.
- Mr. Worsley G. Hambrough, San Diego, Calif.
- Mr. Claude Warren, Binghamton, N. Y.
- Mrs. Laurie Wilhelm, West Englewood.
- Mr. Samuel Hadsell, Phoenix.
ENROLLMENTS AND TRANSFERS[edit]
Since the December, 1936 issue of BAHÁ’Í NEWS went to press, local Spiritual Assemblies have reported the following enrollments of new believers and transfers of believers previously enrolled in some other community.
Evanston, two. Pasadena, seven, and two youths of non-voting age. Lima, three. Vancouver, one. Glendale, one. Phoenix, one. Milwaukee, one. Teaneck, seven. Detroit, one. Montreal, one. San Francisco, four. Toledo, two, and one youth of non-voting age. New York, twelve. Washington, three. Racine, three. Boston, one.
COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS[edit]
| ANNUAL COMMITTEE REPORTS
If a Report must exceed 500 words in length, a 500-word summary should be submitted for publication, with the complete Report made available at the same time for the information of the N. S. A. The N. S. A. welcomes constructive suggestions in addition to the usual detailed record of activity. |
The following new Committee appointments are reported:—
Regional Teaching Committee for Ontario—
- Mr. Gerrard Sluter, Secretary, 334 George Street, Toronto, Ontario; Mr. George Spendlove, Mr. William Suter.
Western States Summer School—
- Mr. John D. Bosch, Chairman. Prof. N. F. Ward, Secretary, 2330 Rose Street, Berkeley, Calif.; Mr. George O. Latimer, Mrs. Thomas Collins, Mr. Leroy Ioas, Mrs. Ella Cooper, Mr. Siegfried Schopflocher, Mr. Irvin Somerhalter, Miss Charlotte M. Linfoot.
Bosch Trustee Maintenance—
- Mr. Leroy Ioas, Chairman, 640 46th Avenue, San Francisco, Calif.; Mrs. Thomas Collins, Mr. George O. Latimer, Mr. John Bosch, Prof. N. F. Ward.
Central States Summer School—
- Mr. L. W. Eggleston, Chairman, Mrs. Bertha Hyde Kirkpatrick, Secretary, 420 S. 5th Avenue, Ann Arbor, Mich.; Mrs. Frank Baker, Mr. Bishop Brown, Miss Garreta Busey, Mr. Howard Meissler.
Regional Teaching Committees—
- For Missouri-Kansas, Mr. J. B. Becktel added; for Ohio-Indiana-Michigan-Kentucky, Mrs. Elsa Blakely added; for Southern States, Prof. E. Vogt added; for Quebec-New Brunswick-Nova Scotia-New Foundland-Prince Edward Island, Miss Ann Savage added; for California-Nevada-Arizona, Miss Ruth Westgate added.
The Bahá’í World, Editorial—
- Mr. Louis G. Gregory, Miss Agnes Alexander added.
Study Outlines—
- Mrs. J. Harvey Gift added.
Braille Transcriptions—
- Added as International Correspondents: Mr. Vuk Echtner, Prague, Mr. Thilander, Stockholm; Mme. Hesse, Paris; Mr. Torii, Japan.
Youth—
- Miss Tahirih Mann, for International Correspondence; added as International Correspondents: Miss Dorothy Cansdale, London; Mr. Sohrab Bahmani, Karachi; Mr. Friedrich Macco, Heidelberg; Mr. Mostafa Kamel, Egypt; Mr. Jamil I. Baghdadi, Baghdad; Mr. M. Hakim, Paris; Mr. Massoud Rassikh, Beirut; Mr. Bertran Dewing, Australia; Mr. Haji Bozork Afnan Aalaaiee, Shiraz.
Youth Committee, Central States Summer School—
- Miss Marguerite Reimer, Miss Florence Mattoon, Mr. Wilfrid Barton.
Green Acre Youth Week—
- Mr. Samuel Fox, Chairman, Miss Dorothea Morrell, Secretary, 203 Fenimore Street, Brooklyn, N. Y.; Miss Ida Noyes, Mr. Douglas Struven, Miss Virginia Setz, Miss Betty Shook, Miss Herta Porter, Mr. Newell Atkinson.
Temple Program—
- Mr. Hilbert Dahl, added.
LOCAL ASSEMBLIES[edit]
These corrections are to be made in the Assembly list already published:—
Topeka, Kansas, Assembly dissolved and the declared believers retain the status of a Bahá’í group.
Rochester, New York, new Secretary elected, Miss Christine McKay, 228 Castlebar Road.
Phoenix, Arizona, new address, P. O. Box 4053.
Flint, Michigan, new address is 4506 Pengelly Road.
Winnetka, Illinois, a new Secretary has been elected: Mrs. Raymond B. Gillespie, 486 Oakdale Avenue, Glencoe, Ill.
Cabin John, Maryland, new address. Mrs. Pauline A. Hannen, Secretary, Route 3, Bethesda, Md.
THE IMPORTANCE OF BAHA’I CREDENTIALS[edit]
The N. S. A. regrets to report that one of the American believers has been grossly deceived by a person who represented himself as having a reference from a Bahá’í in another city.
As was pointed out several years ago, such cases will increase in future, as the Bahá’í community grows in strength and resources, unless the believers uphold the rule that all travelers claiming to be Bahá’ís must have proper credentials, in writing, from their local Assembly. Traveling Bahá’ís not members of a local community, but recorded as isolated believers, can obtain a letter from the N. S. A.
Another principle given us for our protection is that application for financial assistance made in the name of the Cause by individuals personally unknown can be referred to the Spiritual Assembly for consultation before the assistance is given.
MISS MARTHA L. ROOT[edit]
On December 23, the N. S. A. sent to Assemblies as far West as Chicago a teaching schedule prepared by Miss Root for the period January 19—April 1, 1937. It is now necessary to report, with the deepest regret, that this schedule may be somewhat altered in order to give our devoted sister more time for complete recovery.
On July 27, 1936, the N. S. A. received this cablegram from Shoghi
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Effendi: Beloved indefatigable
Martha sailing New York (on board
the) Bergensfiord. Feel certain (that)
believers, will accord befitting welcome
(to this) well beloved, star servant of
Bahá’u’lláh.”
On her arrival, with the exception of interviews in New York and important public teaching at Green Acre, Miss Root remained in seclusion in order to rest from her many years of constant teaching activities in so many countries of East and West. In the autumn, however, she proceeded to carry out teaching plans arranged for her by the Regional Teaching Committee of the New England States and by the local Assemblies of New York, West Englewood, Philadelphia and Washington.
Her plan is to carry out the Guardian’s wish that she travel to Japan after traversing the United States.
As soon as Miss Root can re-arrange her schedule, the friends will be informed.
AMERICAN TEACHERS IN OTHER LANDS[edit]
“They that have forsaken their country for the purpose of teaching Our Cause—these shall the Faithful Spirit strengthen through its power. A company of Our chosen angels shall go forth with them, as bidden by Him Who is the Almighty, the All-Wise. How great the blessedness that awaiteth him that hath attained the honor of serving the Almighty! By My life! No act, however great, can compare with it, except such deeds as have been ordained by God, the All-Powerful, the Most Mighty. Such a service is, indeed, the prince of all goodly deeds, and the ornament of every goodly act. Thus hath it been ordained by Him Who is the Sovereign Revealer, the Ancient of Days.”—Bahá’u’lláh. (Gleanings, p. 334.)
American Bahá’ís serving in Mexico, Central America, South America and the Isles of the Caribbean are related to the N. S. A. directly through the services of the Inter-America Committee. Those American teachers, however, who serve in Europe, Asia and Africa, come under the administrative direction of the National and local Assemblies of the respective countries and cities. The American National Spiritual Assembly has no Committee to keep in close touch with these workers, and therefore hopes to receive letters and reports from them as frequently as possible, in order to share the news with their fellow-believers here.
They are likewise requested to arrange either with their own local Assembly
Display of Bahá’í Literature in Matthews Book Store, Omaha, Nebraska, arranged by Mrs. Sylvia Matteson and Mrs. Mable Ives.
to forward their copy of
BAHÁ’Í NEWS, or request the N. S. A.
to do so. In this case, all changes of
address must be reported without delay.
Mrs. Jeanne Ruhangiz Bolles and Miss Jeanne Bolles, and Mme. Gita Orlova have kindly sent detailed reports of their work in various countries of Europe, summaries of which will be published in the next BAHÁ’Í NEWS. These and all other workers in foreign lands have the loving prayers of the Bahá’í community of the United States and Canada.
BAHA’I SUMMER SCHOOLS[edit]
The following preliminary announcements will make it possible for believers to begin planning their attendance at Summer Schools.
Green Acre. The season will begin July 3, with a general program conducted during July intended to interest non-believers. The Bahá’í Summer School courses begin with a Youth Week, August 1 to 7. From August 9 to September 3 there will be five study courses, a Teaching Conference, and courses on Public Speaking and Writing.
Geyserville. The Western States Summer School will be conducted from July 3 to 18, inclusive. The program will be reported later. Additional accommodations are to be available this year through the construction of a new dormitory as a most generous gift to the School. Reservations in the dormitory and other buildings should be
[Page 7]
made through Miss Ruth Westgate,
Chairman of Housing Committee,
Huntington Hotel Apartments, San
Francisco, Calif.
INTER-AMERICA COMMITTEE[edit]
It was reported in the last issue of BAHÁ’Í NEWS that Mrs. Dodge is resident in Chile. This is now corrected, as this American Baháí is resident in Peru.
Mr. and Mrs. E. R. Mathews sailed for South America in January. Mrs. Mathews will meet with Miss Holzapple at Bahia, and with Mrs. Stewart at Rio de Janeiro, for consultation on the promotion of the teaching work.
Mr. and Mrs. Louis G. Gregory sailed in January to Haiti, for teaching work under the auspices of the Inter-America Committee.
Miss Beatrice Irwin will leave Los Angeles shortly for a teaching trip to Mexico, also under the auspices of this Committee.
During her recent stay in Mexico, Miss Orcella Rexford gave the message before the Women’s section of the Federated Protestant Churches of Mexico.
These brief announcements will be amplified by detailed reports as soon as further information is received. The friends, however, can rejoice to learn of so much constructive activity in other American States.
Communications intended for Mrs. Mathews as chairman of the Inter-America Committee can be sent in care of New York Baha’i Center, 119 West 57th Street, until further notice.
PUBLISHING COMMITTEE ANNOUNCEMENTS[edit]
Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era. The revisions mentioned in the last issue of BAHÁ’Í NEWS have been completed, and the new edition sent to press. It will have an Index, added by request of Shoghi Effendi. The Committee hopes to have copies ready for distribution by March. Paper covers, $0.50. Fabrikoid, $0.75.
A World Faith. Studies in the Teachings of Bahá’u’lláh. In a letter dated January 11, addressed to the Publishing Committee with an order for copies, the Guardian wrote, through his secretary: “He wishes them for teaching purposes, as he thinks they are quite suitable for presentation to inquirers.” Paper covers, $0.25.
| FORMATION OF NEW SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLIES
Groups having exactly nine declared believers establish a Spiritual Assembly by joint declaration, using a special form provided by the N. S. A. for that purpose. Those having more than nine elect the Assembly by secret ballot, and report the election on the form issued to all Assemblies prior to April 21. |
Portals to Freedom, by Howard Colby Ives. The Committee understands that the pre-publication price of $1.85 can be allowed only until March 5. The friends are urged to take advantage of this lower price and place their orders now, through the local Assembly. Cash must be sent with all advance orders.
Life Eternal, compiled by Mary Rumsy Movius. Copies of this book have been available for some weeks. It is beautifully printed and bound, making an unusual gift to non-Bahá’í friends, as well as an extensive and helpful compilation for one’s Bahá’í library. $2.50.
World Order Magazine. Believers who know how difficult it is to complete their bound volumes of Star of the West and The BAHÁ’Í MAGAZINE will appreciate the importance of securing their bound volumes of World Order each year. Vol. I is now obtainable, and Vol. II will be ready after March first. For subscribers who supply the twelve issues, the cost for binding is $1.25, postage additional. For the bound volume complete, $2.50. The aim of the magazine is to make more available, to inquirers and the general public as well to Bahá’ís, the most interesting and forceful material that can be obtained on the Faith as the sole basis of the future world commonwealth.
The following list of recommended teaching literature has been adopted by the N. S. A. in consultation with the National Teaching Committee: A World Religion, by Shoghi Effendi; The Goal of a New World Order, by Shoghi Effendi; What is the Bahá’í Faith? by J. E. Esslemont; The Bahá’í House of Worship, by Genevieve L. Coy; The Oneness of Mankind, by Hussein Rabbani; The Bahá’í Faith, by Horace Holley; The Path to God, by Dorothy Baker; Homoculture, by Stanwood Cobb; The Most Great Peace, by Marion Holley; Principles of the Bahá’í Faith, compilation.
Send orders to Bahá’í Publishing Committee, P. O. Box 348, Grand Central Annex, New York, N. Y., or to Western Division, Mrs. Emma F. Smith, 940 Leavenworth Street, San Francisco, Calif.
THE BAHA’I WORLD[edit]
Material for Vol. VII[edit]
The Editorial Committee is engaged in securing the necessary material for Vol. VII, which will cover the period April, 1936—April, 1938. Letters have been sent to Assemblies throughout the world, that the material may be fully representative.
The procedure is that the Editorial Committee gathers the material and sends it to Shoghi Effendi, who makes final selection and arranges the articles and illustrations in the order in which they are to appear.
Material intended for Vol. VII should be sent to Mrs. Nellie S. French, Secretary, 390 Grove Street, Pasadena, by December, 1937.
LETTER FROM YOUTH COMMITTEE[edit]
To the Bahá’í Youth of America:
Again the call goes forth to all Bahá’í youth for a united international effort! On March 7, 1937, a second series of Youth Symposiums are to be held simultaneously by Bahá’í youth groups throughout the world. The initial effort last Nawruz set the pace. Let us now achieve greater heights of service in this year of even greater opportunity!
The youth symposiums of March 7th are to be two-fold: (1) a preliminary conference where Bahá’í youth meet for consultation on their common problems and for prayers on behalf of this great effort; and (2) a public Youth Symposium where Bahá’í youth present the Teachings.
The general title and theme for the Symposiums is Religion—a Source of Civilization. To aid in the presentation of this theme, The National Youth Committee has selected eight topics on various phases of the Teachings; speech outlines on these topics have been prepared for publication in the January issue of Bahá’í Youth. These have been prepared to set a high standard
[Page 8]
of excellence in the presentation
of the Faith. Each local group can
choose those of the topics best suited
to their audience and youth speakers.
(The topics are: Paths to Unity,
America and the Most Great Peace,
The Meaning of World Order, Science
and Religion, Bahá’í Youth and the
World Today, True Religion, Humanity’s Coming of Age.)
The National Youth Committee has also outlined the following as part of this united effort:
- By the first of February all youth groups should have reported to their regional secretaries their conference plans so that these may be used for publicity both here and abroad.
- Suggested publicity will be sent out to all groups two weeks ahead of time.
- A special March issue of Bahá’í Youth, edited especially for teaching and distribution at this time, may be ordered in quantities from Miss Dorothy Wever, 535 S. Pasadena Ave., Pasadena, California.
- A letter of greeting to the Guardian will be prepared in advance for reading at each conference, and for signatures of all Bahá’í youth who are voting members or registered with the local Assemblies. All letters to the Guardian and all copies of publicity should be forwarded to Zeah Holden to be made up into a scrap book for the Guardian, to be forwarded to him through the N. S. A.
- It is hoped that local efforts will be made, whenever possible, to have some of the Symposium speeches broadcast over local radio stations. This highly desirable teaching effort is wholly dependent upon local initiative.
It is hoped that without delay each
local youth group will consult together and with its local Assembly in
preparation for this international activity. The Guardian is “impatiently
waiting” for us to arise in our full
strength and with perfect reliance upon
the great spiritual forces released in
this age. May this and thousand-fold
activities like it be channels for the
expression of the power of Bahá’u’lláh!
- Sincerely in His Service
- Kenneth Christian
- Sincerely in His Service
- Chairman, National Youth Committee
WORLD ORDER MAGAZINE[edit]
In the February issue begins a series on “The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh” by Mary Collison, based upon her
Display of Temple Model, Oakland, California. See accompanying Report.
study course at Green Acre in 1936.
The friends will find this series of distinct helpfulness in attaining a clearer
view of the administrative principles.
This material can also be used in presenting the subject to study classes.
Other contributors in February: Donald Fay Robinson, Alfred E. Lunt, Diantha Crisp, Dorothy Baker, Marguerite Reimer, Rosa V. Winterburn, Rose Noller, Bertha Hyde Kirkpatrick, Martha L. Root, a selection from Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, and Editorial.
The March issue will begin a series on “A Study of Church Organization” by Glenn L. Shook which gives vivid contrasts between Bahá’í administration and the administration of previous Faiths. This material was presented under the Green Acre program in 1936.
TEMPLE MODEL VALUABLE PUBLICITY[edit]
Capitalizing on the interest aroused in connection with the public Bahá’í meetings held in its sister city, San Francisco, during the meeting of the National Spiritual Assembly there in November, the Oakland Bahá’í Community timed a change in its public meetings from Friday evening to Sunday morning. Announcements of the month’s program were mailed to all who had received invitations to the San Francisco meetings, thus localizing the interest and serving as follow up.
Further public interest was aroused through the exhibition of the Bahá’í Temple model in the window of a downtown business establishment for three weeks which included the Christmas holidays. The space was donated by the owner of the business who also kept the model lighted at night without charge. During the first week placards announced an illustrated lecture on the Temple and following that lecture new placards announced the time and place of the regular meetings.
The lecture on the Temple was given by Mr. A. C. Ioas of the Oakland Community, associated with the
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work of the Cause since its early days
in America, a fact which was featured
in the publicity.
Mr. Ioas used a number of the Temple construction slides furnished by Mr. Allan McDaniel, adding several others depicting important historical facts, and ending with a picture of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.
Finding that this joint appeal to the eye and ear is capable of arousing real interest, the Oakland Community is now making plans for Mr. Ioas to repeat the lecture and slides in a number of the small surrounding communities as well as to student groups in the Oakland high schools.
FOURTEENTH ANNUAL CONVENTION OF GERMANY AND AUSTRIA[edit]
This interesting summary is taken from the BAHÁ’Í NEWS issued by the N. S. A. of the Bahá’ís of Germany and Austria.
“The 14th Annual Convention was opened on Saturday, April 25th, 1936, at 5:30 P.M. at the Bahá’í Office, Alexanderstrasse 3, through the Assemblage of the Delegates. The roll call was followed by the election of the chairman and the adoption of the agenda which was prepared by the outgoing N. S. A. At 7:00 P.M. in the City Park, under the chairmanship of Dr. Muehlschlegel, the N. S. A. and its committees delivered their general reports. Then communities and groups reported. Present were about 60 believers—Sunday morning was set aside for an assemblage of the delegates which convened at 8:30 at the Bahá’í Office for the election of the N. S. A. and afterwards went into consultation. The names of the members of the incoming N. S. A. are the following: Marthe Brauns—Karlsruhe, Paul Gollmer—Stuttgart, Max Greeven—Bremen, Dr. Hermann Grossmann—Neckargemuend, Anna Koestlin—Esslingen, Dr. Adelebert Muehlschlegel—Stuttgart, Dr. Eugen Schmidt—Stuttgart, Alice Schwarz—Stuttgart. Friedrich Schweizer—Stuttgart.—At 11:00, in the German House, a public morning service was held, attended by some 250 people. Anna Grossmann spoke on “Highlights of the Faith”, Dr. Eugen Schmidt on “Progressive Divine Revelation”. Words by Bahá’u’lláh were read and the program was interspersed with musical recitals.—At 1:00 P.M. some hundred friends united for dinner in the City Park. There, at 3:00, was opened a special session dealing with questions concerning the Administration. 80 believers from various Bahá’í centres were present and it is to be regretted that, Berlin excepted, neither the Northgerman nor the Austrian centres were represented, but it will be seen to it that by a repetition of the discourses at the Northgerman Meeting at Whitsuntide, the friends from Berlin, Hamburg, Warnemuende, Rostock will have another and better opportunity to deal with the most important topics of this Special Session. Dr. Muehlschlegel treated the subjects “The National Spiritual Assembly” and “The Question of Membership of Bahá’ís in Religious Non-Bahá’í Organizations”, Anna Grossmann “The Purpose and Significance of the Unity Feast”, Dr. E. Schmidt “Public Bahá’í Meetings”, Dr. H. Grossmann “Interassembly Bahá’í Co-operation” and “The Institution of the Bahá’í Fund”.—The Convention was concluded with a social meeting.—A letter was sent to the Guardian whose inspiring answer is quoted below:—
‘Dearly beloved Friends: The Convention of the German friends constitutes another milestone on the remarkable progress which the German Bahá’í Community has made during the very last years. My heart is filled with gratitude for the many proofs of firmness of belief, co-operation, consolidated unity, further development of the administration, and the spiritual fire, which are demonstrated so convincingly by your members. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, whose special faith, love and care for the adherents of Bahá’u’lláh in your most promising country most of you have recognized and which you will undoubtedly remember, is indeed proud of your achievements and very satisfied with the spirit which governs you so powerfully in His service. His spirit will continue to be with you in your work; it will assist and guide you in your efforts. Persist and have (confidence) faith!—Love, Shoghi.’ ”
IRAQ AUTHORITIES REMOVE BAN ON LITERATURE[edit]
The good news has been received that the authorities of Iráq have raised the ban on the circulation of the Kurdish translation of “Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era” by Esslemont, and have delivered the confiscated copies to the N. S. A. of the Bahá’ís of Iráq. It was more than a year ago that the authorities acted to forbid their distribution, and the believers rejoice at this important spiritual victory.
The release of the Kurdish translation brings the number of printed translations of the Esslemont book to thirty-three, the most recent being the Bengali version, printed at Chittagong, Bengal. This was reported in a letter written to Mr. Roy Wilhelm by the Guardian, through his secretary, dated December 14, 1936.
THE CAUSE IN IRAN[edit]
First Bahá’í Summer School[edit]
We are glad to say that a Bahá’í Summer School was formed for the first time in Tihrán at the garden of “Hadiqeh” in the mountains which is bought by the friends and which is destined for the construction of the first Mashriqu’l-Adhkar in Tihrán. The Summer School was founded and managed by Mrs. Clara H. Sharp and her daughter, Miss Adelaide Sharp, members of this Committee. It carried on its work from July 24th to August 5th, 1936. A small group of young girls who speak English attended the school. Morning hours were devoted to the study of the Bahá’í teachings in English. What gave their teachers the greatest pleasure was the spirit of cooperation and endeavor which prevailed among all the girls. Each morning one of the girls gave a talk in English on one of the following subjects: World Peace, Justice, Search for Truth, Qurratu’l-Ain, a Universal Language. Mrs. Sharp gave a talk on one of Bahá’u’lláh’s explanations of Victory. The afternoons were spent in recreations and going for tea to other nearby gardens where Bahá’ís lived. Before this school was opened we could not guess the spirit of unity and of close association among these girls. They voted that the Summer School in English should continue its existence permanently as many said they never had such a pleasant time in their life. Next year we hope to have a larger group.
Youth Activity[edit]
The Bahá’í Youth Group have sent us a report about their activities. The duties of this group can be summarized as follows:
1.—To encourage the Bahá’í Youth and to bring about the means for their association with each other on a spiritual basis;
2.—To exhort Bahá’í youth in living the life and carrying out the ordinances and principles of the Cause by purifying their souls and rejecting old habits and manners which may be against the Bahá’í principles;
3.—To bring about, to the possible extent, the means for physical training
[Page 10]
of the youth;
4.—To give to the Bahá’í youth mental and intellectual training and to foster their education as much as possible;
5.—To extend help and assistance to needy Bahá’í youth and to give needful guidance to students;
6.—To enter in correspondence with Bahá’í groups throughout the world;
7.—To make efforts towards the promotion of activities for teaching the Cause and
8.—To put the Bahá’í youth in touch with their social duties and to increase their knowledge of Bahá’í principles.
The Bahá’í Youth Committee in Tihrán has lately arranged, among other duties, to give from time to time representations depicting the lives of early believers of the Cause in Iran. Such representations have been arranged so far to commemorate the life of Qurratu’l-Ayn (the famous Bahá’í poetess and martyr), Jenab-i-Varqá (the martyr), Jenab-i-Zain-ul-Muqarabin, Haji Ameen and Haji Mirza Haydar Ali, the famous Bahá’í teacher.
The Youth Committee propose to give similar plays for the Western believers. On May 15th, a representation was given at the house of Mr. Azizullah Azizi, a believer, in commemoration of the life of our departed friend of the West, the late Monsieur H. Dreyfus. A detailed account of the life of this famous pioneer of the Cause in the West was given to the audience which numbered over hundred people.
The chief idea of giving such representations is to put friends here in touch with the wonderful and most valuable services rendered by such noble souls to the Cause and to encourage the present generations to follow the example of courage, faithfulness and the spirit of sacrifice left by our early believers.
Persecution[edit]
“Early in the month of Noor 93 the Secretary of this Assembly was summoned by the Political Department of the Police and asked about his position and occupation. The Secretary replied to the question and said that he had no other job. He was further asked as to his previous employment and the languages he knew and the matter was then dropped.
“A few days later the Secretary was again called to the Department and warned that the Bahá’ís should refrain from all sorts of teaching and propaganda and boisterous demonstrations and to suspend all the meetings and public gatherings threatening him that the members of the Assembly will be prosecuted should they insist in carrying on their present attitude.
“In the meantime the Assembly learned that instructions were issued by the Police on two occasions that the police officials should stop all the Bahá’í meetings and gatherings both in the capital and in the provinces and do all in their power to prevent the Bahá’ís from accomplishing their objects.
“The Assembly has, with a view to abiding by the rules and regulations and respecting the wishes expressed by the authorities, taken the following decisions which have been put into force:
- “Mr. Varqá, the Chairman of the Assembly has been appointed to have an interview with the Chief of Police and discuss the matters with the latter.
- “The archives of the Assembly have to be removed from the Bahá’í Center ‘Haziratu’l-Quds’ to another place.
- “The meetings of the Assembly are to be held in the houses of private individuals and not at a single place.
- “The number of members of different committees of the Assembly has to be reduced and these committees have to hold their sittings in the houses of private individuals.
- “Public meetings and gatherings which used to be held in Bahá’í centers or ‘Haziratu’l-Quds’ or in the houses of friends should be stopped.
“The decisions referred to above were duly notified to various Assemblies in the provinces.
“Now according to information received, some of the authorities in the provinces have gone to the extreme in textually carrying out the instructions received from the capital by preventing even small meetings composed of a very few friends. In Teheran, however, gatherings of 19 people are allowed and the Assembly and various committees are therefore allowed to hold their meetings.
“The National Assembly have on various occasions pointed out to the friends that, while obeying the orders received from the Government, the believers should preserve the unity of the Bahá’í commonwealth and to keep in touch with each other by means of the Nineteen Days’ Feasts. We are glad to say that these Feasts are progressing though they are at present of a limited number.
“Several other Bahá’í officers employed in the military service have been dismissed again from their job following their bold and formal declaration of their faith and have been forced, by imprisoning them, to pay back to the authorities the educational expenses incurred by them. These expenses have been defrayed by the Assembly in certain cases where the officers concerned were not able to meet the expenditure. Most of these officers had served for years in the army and rendered noteworthy services with utmost loyalty and honesty, a fact which has in some cases been testified by their superiors in writing.
“On such occasions the friends are standing these trials and hard experiences with utmost patience and steadfastness. In some cases in the orders of dismissal of these officers they stipulate clearly the fact that the officers were dismissed from their job for the sake of being Bahá’ís. We quote below one of these orders for your information:
“ ‘To 1st. Lieutenant Ahmad Niknám,
‘By virtue of the order No 4017 of Farvardin 19th, 1315 (April 8th, 1936) issued by the General Staff of the North-Western army and the order No. 303 issued by the office of the Officer Commanding the Independant “Haffar” regiment, you are hereby dismissed from military service since Farvardin 20th, 1315 (April 9th, 1936) for your having Bahá’í religion.
“ ‘It is necessary that you should at once change your military uniform.
- Setvan I. Vali Zadeh,
- Acting O. C. the 1st. Section of
- Independant Haffar Regiment.’
- “ ‘No. 133. Dated Farvardin 22nd, 1315 (April 11th, 1936).’
“The Bahá’ís in Iran are, under the wise guardianship of our beloved Shoghi Effendi, cooperating, as far as the means at their disposal allow them, with the friends in other countries in the world in establishing a new civilization and in guiding people to real peace and unity. They request their beloved brothers and sisters in the West to pray for them to succeed in carrying out most faithfully the wishes of the beloved Guardian and obtaining his satisfaction.” —A. FARUTON, Secretary.
