Bahá’í News/Issue 109/Text

Bahá’í News
Issue 109

BAHA’I NEWS

Published by
The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís
of the United States and Canada
General Office: 130 Evergreen Place, West Englewood, New Jersey

No. 109

JULY, 1937

LETTER FROM THE GUARDIAN[edit]

To the National Spiritual Assembly[edit]

The Subject of Esperanto

Regarding the subject of Esperanto; it should be made clear to the believers that while the teaching of that language has been repeatedly encouraged by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, there is no reference either from Him or from Bahá’u’lláh that can make us believe that it will necessarily develop into the international auxiliary language of the future. Bahá’u’lláh has specified in His writings that such a language will either have to be chosen from one of the existing languages, or an entirely new one should be created to serve as a medium of exchange between the nations and peoples of the world. Pending this final choice, the Bahá’ís are advised to study Esperanto only in consideration of the fact that the learning of this language can considerably facilitate inter-communication between individuals, groups and Assemblies throughout the Bahá’í world in the present stage of the evolution of the Faith.

June 4, 1937.

THE MATURITY OF FAITH[edit]

THE CALL HAS GONE FORTH ... THE PATH IS CLEAR

Message from Shoghi Effendi

“The responsibilities which, under your direction and in response to my plea, the American community is now assuming, over and above the task they have already undertaken in connection with the Divine Plan, proclaiming in unmistakable terms their unswerving determination to prove themselves worthy of the sublimity of their mission, and of their privileged position among their sister communities in both the East and the West,—the twofold task they have arisen to perform will, if carried out in time, release the potentialities with which the community of the Greatest Name has been so generously and mysteriously endowed by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. To carry out in its entirety and to its final consummation this dual enterprise would shed on the closing years of this first century of the Bahá’í Era a luster no less brilliant than the immortal deeds which have signalized its birth, in the heroic age of our Faith. To the American believers, the spiritual descendents of the heroes of God’s Cause, I again address my plea to arise as one soul and to prosecute with unrelaxing resolve the high mission with which their immediate destiny is inextricably interwoven. The call has gone forth, the path is clear, the goal manifest and within their reach. Though their responsibilities be pressing and heavy and the obstacles formidable and manifold, yet the spirit of our invincible Faith will enable them to conquer if they arise unitedly and determinedly and persevere till the very end,”—SHOGHI.—(Postscript of letter addressed to the National Spiritual Assembly.)

June 4, 1937.

During this year marking the Twenty-Fifth Anniversary of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s journey through America, the older believers are reminded afresh of the countless daily incidents by which He revealed the reality of the spiritual life to Bahá’ís and inquirers alike. Many of the friends recall particularly His oft-repeated greeting: “Are you happy?” and feel that in this question the Master conveyed a most glorious truth.

Happiness in the sense of inner steadfastness, calm and unshakable peace is surely a direct evidence that faith has been attained. While the soul is yet susceptible to agitation, constant change and alteration of condition, the degree of faith may be pure but betokens that early childhood when contagious disease is impossible to resist.

Now that the Guardian, in the words cited in this issue of BAHÁ’Í NEWS, calls the American believers to the station of heroism, we must redouble our personal and collective effort to attain maturity in our inner lives. If we can for ever leave behind those hidden, unresolved agitations that occasionally arise to confuse every ardent believer, learning how to confront ourselves more frankly, and becoming more critical of ourselves than of others, the capacity for heroic achievement will be reinforced throughout America. The spiritual life cannot forever consist of negative reactions from other individuals or external situations; we cannot afford to depend any longer upon others’ praise and encouragement; but seek to attain within ourselves a fixed determination and resolve so powerful that under all circumstances it will remain independent of all save God.

The non-believing society around us is rent with division, and the atmosphere

[Page 2] of the souls outside the Kingdom of Bahá’u’lláh has become murky with the destructive fire of discord. All motives are challenged, all policies are attacked, and no possibility of satisfaction exists save as a divine gift to the members of the Community of the Greatest Name. This confusion must inevitably one day lead to concentrated attacks upon the Cause in this as in other countries. While the opportunity still exists, may we seize the privilege of becoming immune from the pressure of the deniers, by rising above the negative suggestions emanating from our own souls. With what joy and radiance should every American Bahá’í contemplate the Seven Year task, manifestly impossible to human nature lacking faith and sacrifice, because the entire Plan compels heroism and when completed will be a most impressive evidence of the power of the Cause! How ardent and vigorous should be the spirit attained at each Nineteen Day Feast! For while the majority of all human beings alive at this time are building their hopes upon a doomed civilization, the Bahá’ís are raising the structure of their World Order and their physical House of Worship upon the foundation that can never be overthrown.

TEACHING PLANS AND POLICIES[edit]

The intensive teaching effort required under the Divine Plan was initiated last year by the appointment of larger Regional Teaching Committees under the detailed plan published in BAHÁ’Í NEWS of June, 1936.

The valuable experience which has been acquired, and the grave emphasis repeatedly given the matter of teaching by the Guardian, now makes it possible to summarize the methods and objectives of our work for the coming year in the following statement. The members of Regional Teaching Committees, and the individual believers throughout the United States and Canada, are urged to acquaint themselves with its provisions, that the work may go forward with ever-increasing power and success.

The Regional Teaching Committees are not to be concerned with teaching activities in areas lying within the administrative jurisdiction of established local Spiritual Assemblies. Their primary task is to open up new regions and localities. The Regional Committees are requested to give utmost attention to the importance of this pioneer work.
The initiative of individual believers to engage in active teaching service under the direction of their local Assembly or their Regional Teaching Committee is the dynamic force released by the Divine Plan. The entire American Bahá’í community must be stirred to its depths by zeal for teaching it the goal is to be attained.
Individual activities and committee plans alike should conform to wisdom, so that the means may be adapted to the ends. The aim is the confirmation of souls, not the organization of public meetings which produce no real result. Each Assembly and Regional Committee is to encourage and at the same time guide the individual volunteers, while individuals who have courage, zeal and ardor are to consult and endeavor to work under careful plans based upon consideration of the situation as a whole and the ultimate best interests of the Faith.
The utmost honor and praise will go to those who can arise as pioneers and settle in new regions in order to establish a permanent Bahá’í community. The National Fund will assist as much as possible in the preliminary expense, but the pioneer must expect to become self-sustaining after a few months.
Intimate fireside groups, and wise, continuous personal association have proved to be the best means of confirming souls. The place of public meetings in a teaching plan is to attract a group for a permanent study class. The whole plan should be thought out in advance.
As funds permit, a budget will be given the National and Regional Teaching Committees, and further appropriations voted from time to time. The National Fund does not make appropriations for teaching work carried on by local Assemblies. A budget of Free Literature is also provided for all these Committees. The National and Regional Committees are to prepare plans and report their financial needs from time to time. A Regional Committee is authorized to spend up to $25.00 on any one project on its own initiative, but projects costing more than $25.00 should First be referred to and approved by the National Teaching Committee. The National Teaching ‎Committeee Committee‎ is authorized to spend up to $100.00 for any one project on its own authority; for projects costing more than $100.00, the approval of the N. S. A. should first be secured.
Traveling teachers who place literature in Libraries are to obtain the books from the Free Literature Budget of the National or Regional Teaching Committee, depending upon the jurisdiction in each case. The National Library Committee does not deal with traveling teachers but only with local Spiritual Assemblies in this matter of placing the literature in Libraries.
A distinction has been made between public and private teaching. The N. S. A. would like to have all public meetings outside the jurisdiction of local Assemblies conducted by teachers who have received the recognition and approval of the National or Regional Teaching Committee. Such meetings are to be announced as under the jurisdiction of the Teaching Committee concerned with the particular region.
The following list of pamphlets has been approved and recommended for use as free literature: A World Religion, by Shoghi Effendi; The Goal of a New World Order, by Shoghi Effendi; The Unfoldment of World Civilization, 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; Principles of the Bahá’í Faith, a compilation; 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.
The form of letter of authorization to be given to traveling teachers by the National and Regional Teaching ‎Commitees Committees‎ is to read as follows: “This letter presents ... (name) ... who is conducting Bahá’í classes and public meetings in ... (locality) ... under the direction of the National (or Regional) Teaching Committee of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States and Canada.” (signed by Committee Secretary). In this connection it is pointed out that the letters of credentials given traveling believers by their local Assembly present the believer as a voting member of a Bahá’í community, and do not take the place of the authorization given by a Teaching Committee of the N. S. A.

Functions of National Teaching Committee[edit]

The preparation of general teaching material and of general policies and plans.
The supervision of regional activities through the Regional Teaching Committees. [Page 3]
The direction of teaching activities in all areas of the United States and Canada not allocated to Regional Teaching Committees.
Enrollment of isolated believers.
Summarizing and compiling for the National Spiritual Assembly and BAHÁ’Í NEWS monthly or periodic reports on teaching activities received from Local Spiritual Assemblies.
Routing of teachers between regions.
Preparation and supervision of national teaching budget, expenditures and plans to be approved by the National Spiritual Assembly before becoming effective.

Functions of Regional Teaching Committees:[edit]

The extension of teaching work to areas within the regions which have no Assemblies or groups. The Regional Committee is to exercise initiative in the areas outside the jurisdiction of local Assemblies.
Encouraging and stimulating teaching activities of isolated believers.
Rendering assistance to groups and preparing groups for the election of a Spiritual Assembly.
The routing of teachers outside of Assembly responsibility and within local region.
Cooperation with local Assemblies in organizing teaching circuits for isolated believers and groups in new areas.
The coordination of Inter-Community Conferences.

In order to clarify the functions of the National and Regional Committees, it is recorded that each Regional Committee is authorized to make decisions involving action and in doing so need not consult the National Teaching Committee. It is also recorded that the Regional Committees have no administrative authority. They are to assist the local Assemblies in every possible way and also make possible a coordination of Inter-Assembly activity. They have no jurisdiction over the teaching activities of Spiritual Assemblies.

Inasmuch as Local Assemblies are to assume all responsibility in connection with their local teaching work, the main duties of the Regional Committees will be to assist groups, isolated believers, and open new areas within their respective regions to the Faith.

In areas not assigned to Regional Committees the National Teaching Committee’s main function is of similar nature. Therefore this work can best be carried on under a general national plan and in this regard Regional Committees will report to the National Teaching Committee. This does not in any way change the authority of the Regional Committees to make local decisions without consultation with the National Teaching Committee.

ANNUAL REPORT[edit]

Inter-America Committee[edit]

The initial year of the Inter-America Committee has widened many avenues leading to a consciousness of the Bahá’í Faith. Inspired by our beloved Guardian, Shoghi Effendi, watched over with unflagging zeal by the National Spiritual Assembly, with the believers eager and willing to sacrifice home and country to teach and spread the Cause, our experience has demonstrated anew the power of achievement that lies within the Message of Bahá’u’lláh.

A little more than a year has passed since Mr. and Mrs. Dudley M. Blakeley sailed from New York to Haiti, Curacao, Venezuela, Trinidad and British Guiana. A few hours each way were spent in Trinidad and resulted in an excellent article appearing in the Trinidad Guardian. Only a short visit was made by the ship to Haiti but long enough to perceive the desperate need of this land. Books and pamphlets were distributed to officials of the Royal Netherlands Line. But, writes Mrs. Blakeley, our main objective was British Guiana and arriving there we found the land an open sesame to the Faith. Precisely at the hour of the Naw Ruz Feast in New York and while prayers for our success were being said the first newspaper reporters were interviewing us and from that moment all doors opened to receive the Divine Message. The first week was spent in making arrangements for radio talks, newspaper articles, lectures for clubs, groups, churches and individuals. By the second week the two broadcasts were under way, one on Science and Religion, the other on the World’s Literature and Music and how they have promoted oneness in the human race. Public lectures were beginning at the East Indian Society, The Moravian Church, and to Masons and members of the Administration and educational professions. The third week saw the formation of a study group, over thirty men and women drawn from divers religions. We met in a room lent by the President of the East Indian Society, Mr. Gajraj. After our departure this group continued to meet every nineteen days and we have endeavored to keep in close contact with them. On our return trip to Curacao we called on Mr. Henriquez, a member of the Legislative Assembly, who had done much to assist Leonora Holsapple; we left with him additional literature in Spanish, Portuguese and English as he continually speaks to his people of the great principles announced to the world by the Prophet Bahá’u’lláh.

In January of 1937 Mr. and Mrs. Louis Gregory undertook a journey to the Island of Haiti. It is impossible to exaggerate the ignorance, superstition and lack of unity existing in this sad land, nevertheless these devoted souls organized meetings twice a week and held them whether any one came or not, a true Bahá’í attitude. As always in strange lands one cannot see ahead, taking one step at a time and groping forward blindly one is often of the belief that no permanent result can follow and yet through the Holy Spirit results invariably do. Here Louise Gregory’s knowledge of the French language was of inestimable value. Quoting from Louis’s letters, he writes: “Mr. Oswald Garrison Villard, a champion of Haitian freedom, received me with great courtesy as well as the director of the Haitian Hospital and a number of his assistants. Among those who are listening to the Message and studying the books are two men who have held the rank of statesmen, though now out of power, a happy circumstance that gives them the leisure to look more deeply into the Bahá’í Faith. A distinguished physician, two members of the present Haitian Cabinet, several members of the Senate and Chamber of Deputies, heads of schools, the American Consul and two sons of the late Episcopal Bishop of Haiti are among those who have availed themselves of this opportunity to study the Bahá’í Principles. The peasantry, who number about 95 per cent of the population, are difficult to approach because of their intense superstition, their ignorance, and their Creole dialect, however we made friends with them whenever possible.” In another letter Louis writes: “A group of humble but very sincere souls have been organized to carry on the work and with constant supervision through correspondence, bid fair to become the first Spiritual Assembly in Haiti. We have one

[Page 4] teacher of rare ability as well as three others who will be active in teaching and in circulating the literature. Some Answered Questions in French is being circulated. One of the teachers, a lady of wide influence, and one who has freed herself from the trammels of rituals, replied to Louise’s injunction to be wise and not give too much, ‘feeding babies upon milk’ replied, ‘Never fear! I shall not even give them milk in the beginning, only sugar and water.’ ”

Early in their visit to Haiti Louis wrote: “This is a Catholic country and I can well imagine that to those who have no other outlook, the Bahá’í teachings, with their fire consuming veils of superstition and prejudice, may be a great test and the authorities may feel that they are protecting themselves in not being willing at such a time to have the public mind agitated with new ideas.” This proved to be a prophetic statement since as they became established and the authorities became aware of their mission, they were refused permission to hold public meetings.

Before turning from this region I might add that I passed through Trinidad in January, 1937, but at the time was too ill to go ashore. However, I wrote an article for the Guardian and Mr. Mathews and my nurse took it ashore and handed it to the reporter, with what result is unknown to us.

The activities of South America have been growing in volume and importance in a manner that seems also miraculous. Leonora Holsapple, extending her work in Bahia, has taken seventeen girls to educate and look after. Both Mrs. French and myself spent the day with her and saw her remarkable work.

Mrs. Isabel Stebbins Dodge joined her husband in Peru, where he is engaged in mining activities. Mrs. Dodge is studying Spanish and has been joined by her mother, Mrs. Stebbins, and both working hard to make the Bahá’í Cause known in Lima, the foremost city of that country, and though almost entirely Catholic, many English and Americans go there because of the great mines.

In a journey taken by Mrs. Nellie S. French, member of the National Spiritual Assembly, she writes: “Arriving at Lima, Peru, I was met by Mrs. Dodge and though we were unable to see the editors of the newspapers, we made several calls, among them one to the National Library and had a most interesting conversation with the Librarian and placed a copy of Esslemont in Spanish in the library. Our next port of call was Valparaiso, Chili. The reporter who came to the ship got little of the Bahá’í idea. However, Valparaiso proved to be interesting through an introduction given me by Miss Edna True to a prominent Chilian family. I mentioned my disappointment over the article published by the first reporter and our host said that if I could write an article in Spanish, he would see that it was printed. I must, he added, send my photograph with the article. By selecting certain paragraphs and combining them with the Principles, I managed to make a readable article which later appeared exactly as I had written it. Magallanwes, on the straits of Magellan, the most southerly city of the world, was our next port, quite unexpectedly I found a German professor who came on board with a group of children, talking with him I found that he was an Esperantist, had been in Los Angeles and knew Dr. and Mrs. Witt, he had heard about the Cause and I gave him a copy of ‘Esslemont’ in Spanish. He received it with evident pleasure and gave me his address that I might send him other books. Upon our arrival in Sao Paulo, Brazil, I presented a letter to Mr. Derrom, the manager of the Portland Cement Co. He proved himself most courteous and though because of illness I was unable to make the trip to Sao Paulo, Mr. Derrom responded to my letters. I have written him several times and shall send The Bahá’í World, as I have asked him to write an article for Vol. VII. He had visited the Temple, had purchased books and is certainly very hopeful.

“The call made at Bahia, Brazil, this quaint and interesting town situated so close to the equator, was the high spot of my journey. Miss Holsapple came on board to find me. I shall never forget the warmth of her greeting and the happiness which she expressed to have the pleasure of being with a believer again. We went to three offices of the daily papers there, and were cordially received and in two of the offices a brief interview was given, as the third editor was not in, I gave Leonora an article to translate into Portuguese. Thus we hoped to have at least a brief article in each one of the papers.

“We proceeded to Miss Holsapple’s house where I met and spoke to a group of nine women. Three of these seemed particularly attracted and nearly all had studied with Leonora. They are planning to form a study group. Then ‎Lenora Leonora‎ took me to see her school which she started about a year ago. This is one of the outstanding Bahá’í services. Though laboring under financial stress, with her health none too robust because of the intense tropical heat, Leonora has succeeded in spite of her regular work to save sufficient means to rent a lovely little villa where she has placed seventeen girls, between the ages of six to thirteen. These children were taken from the streets. They were receiving no education, were forlorn and in many cases being abused. The children are cared for by a Brazilian girl and her mother who have long been believers and give their services to this work. The little girls are so obedient and so serious in the performance of their tasks that it was wonderful to see. Miss Holsapple also furnishes a teacher who visits the school regularly and instructs the children. Upon questioning, I found that the Guardian had not been informed of this wonderful work and this is only another evidence of the modesty and humility of this wonderful servant of Bahá’u’lláh.

“A very live interest was manifested on the ship wherever I was able to speak of the Cause, I found among the cruisers a Swedish gentleman who knew of the Bahá’í Cause and had with him copies of the Seven Valleys as well as the Hidden Words, which I frequently found him reading. He remained over in New York and attended the meeting at the Center on the 28th of March.”

On my own way to Rio de Janeiro I spent the day with Leonora and followed the same program. I feel that the time will come when other teachers will join Leonora and then she may be free to go as far afield as Rio de Janeiro.

In November Mrs. Frances Benedict Stewart of Utica, New York, had been chosen as a delegate to attend the People’s Conference in Buenos Aires. This was a splendid opportunity to combine with our Bahá’í teaching campaign, as Mrs. Stewart was born in South America and naturally speaks Spanish as her native tongue. She was most enthusiastic to undertake a teaching trip and after she left, in consultation with the National Spiritual Assembly it was decided to ask her to remain after the Conference and meet me in Rio the middle of January. This she was delighted to do, and when I met her, she told me that the work she did after the Conference was for more important, and that it would have been impossible to work thus freely during the period of the sessions. She found, as I had during my visit, that many Germans were attracted to the Cause, and so she went from a Spanish group to a German one and again talked to the Americans. She made a unique

[Page 5] place for herself and started classes that she feels certain will result in an Assembly later on. Knowing as we all do the importance of placing this vast continent under the Teaching of Bahá’u’lláh, and hearing from our Guardian that this is the moment for the unfoldment of the Divine Plan, we are thrilled beyond measure at such a prospect and already see the curtain rising on The New Day. This devoted believer traveled from Buenos Aires to Rio by way of Santo Paulo where she found an isolated believer, Mrs. Krug, who was overwhelmed with delight to meet again a Bahá’í. For me, this was a piece of great good fortune, completing the addresses for Bahá’í books in Brazil. I asked Mrs. Stewart to represent the Inter-America Committee at the Convention, which she did with outstanding results. In her own words she writes of her labors in Buenos Aires:

“October 30, 1936 will ever be a date of great importance in my memory. On this day I sailed from New York to attend the great People’s Peace Conference which convened in Buenos Aires, Argentina, during November. What a rich privilege to carry to our neighbors in the twenty Latin-American nations the deep desire of the people of the United States for peace and understanding. I carried also the great Message of the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh, that great vision for the Unity of all nations, and of all humanity by the establishment of justice in all the institutions of a Divine Civilization. Many, many were the doors found open and waiting, many the eager listeners who were readily attracted by the Divine Word, by the profound understanding of the ills of our distracted world and the clear exposition of the remedies needed to establish security, harmony and Peace, as found in the Bahá’í writings. Some had heard of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s historic journey to Europe and the United States and expressed a sincere appreciation that they also were to be included in this great plan for a New World Order.

“Many group meetings were held where deep discussion continued far into the morning hours and people from many, many nations heard the Message for the First time in that great city of over three million inhabitants. Literature was eagerly received whenever offered and much placed in libraries. The official Inter-American Conference held in December was also attended and many opportunities were found to give Bahá’í literature to leaders from many of the American Nations.

“The booming cannon of Spain could almost be heard in South America and in that sad tragedy there seemed to be included all the grave ills of a decadent age. Many hearts were saddened and perplexed and the questions of how humanity was to ever escape from these recurring calamities were on the lips of all thoughtful persons. Bahá’u’lláh’s love for all peoples, His divine understanding and vision was a glorious Revelation to these seeking souls.

“Shoghi Effendi’s oft-repeated admonition that the Bahá’ís of the United States assume responsibility to carry the Message to these waiting nations had stirred the American Bahá’ís to a spirit of service and truly, ‘The fields are white with the harvest and the laborers are few.’ The bond of unity between true seekers and believers was demonstrated and every week brings letters asking for more material, in Spanish; for the answers to many questions. Friends in Brazil were equally interested, though only twelve days were spent there.

“Contacts must be maintained with these new Seekers and it has been a great joy to share this hope, this assurance of God’s Divine Plan with our dear friends in South America.”

Meanwhile Mexico was being stirred into action through the dynamic personality of Miss Beatrice Irwin. She left Los Angeles in January and at the moment of the writing of this report is still in Mexico City. Quoting from her letters we read: February 21, “Already I have a lecture booked on the Bahá’í Peace Plan with the International Club. On that occasion I should like to show pictures of the Temple. I have talked to the President of Public Relations, he has promised to secure for me a hearing before social and economic groups and has given me a letter to the President of the University. ... The letter that I brought with me from Dr. Hewett, School of American Research in Santa Fe, is proving a valuable passport.... I have not as yet made contact with the press as I am endeavoring to inform myself as to their political standing,” (and I may add as Chairman, this is an important and necessary measure when you are a Bahá’í traveler in foreign lands). Quoting from a following letter February 22, “Interviewed National University also made two visits with President of Maddu Academy, a leading girl’s school and she, the President, has asked me to address the school.” From a letter of March 8, “Contacts with brief mention of the Cause to the following city magnates: Mr. Pierce of Bank of Mexico, Mr. Stallfirth of German Bank, Mr. Cantreras, Director of City Planning and best of all to Mr. Polachek, aide to Dr. Kybil, Cecho-Slovakian Minister, with the result that I have received an invitation to take part in Masaryk Celebration on occasion of his 87th birthday. The association which Martha Root formed here, the fine campaign that she made throughout Cecho-Slovakia makes this an outstanding opportunity.” May 23, “Splendid publicity for the celebration of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit to America with His picture. Also the Central News which is the leading book shop here, having fine window space on the Ave Juarez, a street like Fifth Avenue, New York, is very cooperative. I am collecting material for a scrap-book to send to Shoghi Effendi and wish to conserve all its material while I am making it. I have good news, weekly Study Group formed to meet in my apartment. Greetings in this day of rejoicing, since it was not possible to arrange special activities for the day, this letter will be my commemoration; this humble standard bearer of His joy is thankful for much and hopeful for increase of spiritual Springtide in many directions from the seeds already planted.”

This article culled from a larger activity shows the spirit as well as the actual work that is going forward. They do not and cannot tell of every contact or teaching program but are indicative of the spirit that is urging forward an army of souls, standing ready and eager for service, each with special qualifications and all animated with one central idea to spread the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh and bring mankind into the wider knowledge and the greater happiness that such knowledge will engender. That our Guardian, Shoghi Effendi, directs our energies and focalizes our actions upon certain constructive measures, prays daily for our efforts and points with glowing fervor to results has caused those feeble actions to increase, grow stronger and more effective. May the coming year prove not only a continuation, but a multiplication of our services to the Cause of God.

LOULIE A. MATHEWS, Chairman.

E. R. MATHEWS

DUDLEY BLAKELEY

ELSA BLAKELEY

LEONORA HOLZAPPLE

E. R. CARTWRIGHT

MIGUEL CALDERON

MRS. THEODORE DODGE

SIEGFRIED SCHOPFLOCHER

FRANCES BENEDICT STEWART

[Page 6]

ROLL OF SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLIES[edit]

Elected April 21, 1937[edit]

(With name and address of Secretary for correspondence)

Phoenix, Arizona, Mrs. Ruth Humphrey, P. O. Box 4053.

Berkeley, Calif., Mrs. Laura Kelsey Allen, 537 Santa Barbara Road.

Geyserville, Calif., Mrs. John D. Bosch.

Glendale, Calif., Mrs. Charlotte E. Grover, 1310 E. Acacia Avenue.

Los Angeles, Calif., Mrs. Oni A. Finks, 453 E. Avenue 28.

Oakland, Calif., Miss Gladyce Linfoot, 376 60th Street.

Pasadena, Calif., Miss Emmalu Wever, 535 South Pasadena Avenue.

San Francisco, Calif., Miss Nadeen G. Cooper, 748 Page Street, Apt. 7.

Montreal, Canada, Mrs. Emeric Sala, 194 Riverside Drive, St. Lambert, P. Q.

Vancouver, B. C., Miss Doris Skinner, 1555 13th Avenue, West.

Colorado Springs, Colorado, Mrs. Gladys Roberts, 915 North Hancock Avenue.

Denver, Colorado, Dr. C. E. Meyer, 4495½ Perry Street.

New Haven, Connecticut, Mrs. Elsa Isaacs, 104 Grand Avenue.

Washington, D. C., George D. Miller, 1717 Kilbourne Place, N.W.

Jacksonville, Florida, Miss Kathryn L. Vernon, 707 Post Street.

Miami, Florida, Mrs. Margaret H. Atwater, 44 N. W. 10th Avenue.

St. Augustine, Florida, Miss Thitchener, 20 River Road.

Augusta, Georgia, Mrs. C. T. Sego, Bransford Road.

Honolulu, Hawaii, Mrs. Elma Adolphson, 712 17th Avenue.

Maui, Hawaii, Mrs. Mary T. Fantom, Sprecklesville.

Chicago, Illinois, Mrs. H. S. Walrath, 4639 Beacon Street.

Evanston, Illinois, Mrs. Inez B. Ford, 2645 Girard Avenue.

Park Ridge, Illinois, Mrs. J. H. Redson, 612 So. Washington Street.

Peoria, Illinois, Mrs. Marion Rhodes, 142 High Street, Apt. D.

Rockford, Illinois, Dr. Edward L. Fernald, 607 Empire Building.

Springfield, Illinois, Mrs. Anna K. Jurgens, 201 W. Calhoun Avenue.

Urbana, Illinois, Mr. H. J. Snider, 506 W. Penn. Avenue.

Wilmette, Illinois, Mr. Carl A. Hannen, 536 Sheridan Road.

Winnetka, Illinois, Mrs. Robert Carson, 1518 Asbury Avenue.

Indianapolis, Indiana, Mrs. Lorraine Barlet, 3527 Evergreen Avenue.

South Bend, Indiana, Mrs. Sarah M. Russell, 1031 Lincoln Way West.

Eliot, Maine, Miss Louise N. Thompson

Baltimore, Maryland, Mrs. George Stallings, 23 S. Highland Avenue.

Cabin John, Maryland, Mrs. Pauline A. Hannen.

Boston, Mass., Mrs. E. M. Oglesby, 30 Holyoke Street.

Springfield, Mass., Mrs. Wendell E. Bacon, Monson, Mass.

Worcester, Mass., Miss Fanny M. Holmes, 103 Webster Street.

Detroit, Michigan, Miss Jessie E. Hall, 49 E. Willis Street.

Flint, Michigan, Miss Elizabeth J. Phelps, P. O. Box 355.

Lansing, Michigan, Mr. George Angell, R. F. D. 3, Box 540.

Muskegon, Michigan, Mrs. Iva Smack, 132 Allen Avenue.

Minneapolis, Minnesota, Mrs. Helen W. Frink, 1216 Nicollet Avenue.

St. Paul, Minnesota, Mr. Julian Abas, 235 Fuller Avenue.

Kansas City, Missouri, Miss Opal Howell, 4527 Forest Avenue.

*Jersey City, New Jersey, Mr. Bernard B. Gottlieb, 445 Mercer Street.

Montclair, New jersey, Miss Anna E. Van Blarcum, 19 Walnut Crescent.

Newark, New Jersey, Mrs. F. Clark, 21 Milford Avenue.

Teaneck, New Jersey, Archie G. Tichenor, 12 Valley Rd., Haworth, N. J.

Binghamton, New York, Miss Roberta Maybin, 178 Court Street.

Buffalo, New York, Mrs. Morris S. Bush, 406 West Utica Street.

Geneva, New York, Mrs. Marguerite Firoozi, 22 DeLancy Drive.

New York, N. Y., Miss B. L. Herklotz, Room 615, 119 W. 57th Street.

Rochester, New York, Miss Christine McKay, 228 Castlebar Road.

Yonkers, New York, Mrs. Lillian Stoddard, 100 Saratoga Avenue.

Cincinnati, Ohio, Miss Hilda Stauss, 3640 Epworth Avenue, Westwood, Cincinnati, Ohio.

Cleveland, Ohio, Mrs. Dale S. Cole, 3174 Corydon Road.

Columbus, Ohio, Mrs. Margarete Acebo, R. F. D. 1, Reynoldsburg, Ohio.

Dayton, Ohio, Mrs. Helen McCoy, 24 Lexington Avenue.

Lima, Ohio, Mrs. Elma Miessler, 319 Westwood Drive.

Toledo, Ohio, Miss Ruth Phillips, 2215 Scottwood Avenue.

Portland, Oregon, Mr. J. W. Latimer, 1927 N.E. 40th Avenue.

Philadelphia, Penna., Miss Jessie E. Revell, 2531 North 19th Street.

Pittsburgh, Penna., Mrs. Bishop Brown, Ingomar, Pa.

Nashville, Tennessee, Mrs. E. H. Peebles, Nolensville, Tennessee.

Monroe, Washington, Mrs. Levina Sprau, P. O. Box 277.

Spokane, Washington, Mrs. Isabelle M. Campbell, 1427 S. Madison St.

Seattle, Washington, Miss Doris Foye P. O. Box 228.

Kenosha, Wisconsin, Mr. Louis J. Voelz, 6108 Sheridan Road.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Mrs. Jeannette Clark, 1814A. North Oakland Ave.

Racine, Wisconsin, Mr. Harold R. Olsen, 1332 Russet Street.

_____
*Newly constituted Assembly.

ENROLLMENTS AND TRANSFERS[edit]

The following additions to the voting list have been reported by local Assemblies.

Philadelphia, one. Muskegon, one. New York, two. Honolulu, one. Kansas City, three. Binghamton, three (youth). Los Angeles, five. Columbus, one. Nashville, two. Geneva, one. Chicago, eight.

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.

Miss Mary Ruth Nitsche, Muskegon.

Miss Bertha L. Lackey, Worcester.

Mrs. Carrie Timleck, Geneva.

GREEN ACRE YOUTH WEEK[edit]

Special Notice[edit]

August 1 to 7 has been set aside for the Youth study class and program at Green Acre, as already reported. The original announcement stated that the rate would be $12.50 for the young people attending these Youth sessions. The Trustees have now decided that if forty or more are enrolled, the rate for Youth Week will be reduced to $10.00. Reservations should be made at an early date. Address Manager, Green Acre Inn, Eliot, Maine.

DR. Y. S. TSAO[edit]

Letter from Agnes Alexander[edit]

The sad news has reached me from Shanghai that our beloved Chinese brother, Dr. Y. S. Tsao, died suddenly in his car on the way to his home,

[Page 7] on February 8th, at 4:30 p. m. Our brother, Mr. M. H. A. Ouskouli, writes me that Dr. Tsao had not been sick and also he asked me to write the BAHÁ’Í MAGAZINE and ask if Dr. Tsao’s picture could be published with a short article.

The work which Dr. Tsao has done for the Cause of God in China is an everlasting monument. It was he who translated Esslemont’s book into Chinese. He was working on the translation of “Some Answered Questions.” About a month ago, his helper, Mr. Tang, died and so there was a setback and now Dr. Tsao has flown to the Kingdom of Bahá’u’lláh, as Mr. Ouskouli writes me.

Dr. Tsao first heard of the Bahá’í Faith through Martha Root when he was the President of Tsing Hua College, the Boxer Indemnity College. Martha bravely went out to the College without any previous introduction, but was received most kindly by Dr. Tsao and his wife, who is Swedish by birth, but American naturalized. Afterwards Dr. and Mrs. Tsao entertained us in their home and invited me to speak in the Auditorium of the College on the Bahá’í Faith to the whole student body, and a second time he called a meeting for any students who might be interested to meet and talk with us.

After eight years of service at Tsing Hua College, Peiping, Dr. and Mrs. Tsao moved to Shanghai, where they have lived since, and where they have formed the bond with the Persian Bahá’ís who also live in Shanghai. Dr. Tsao was educated at Yale University and also studied at Harvard.

May the Bahá’ís pray for this wonderful soul who has so suddenly left us, and also for his devoted wife who must now carry on alone.

In His love and service,

AGNES B. ALEXANDER.

Tokyo, February 17, 1937.

GREETING TO ESPERANTO JUBILEE CONGRESS[edit]

Mr. Joseph Leahy, Secretary,

Esperanto Association of North America,

Washington, D. C.

Dear Mr. Leahy:

The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States and Canada send their greetings and good wishes to the jubilee Congress of the Esperanto Association of North America.

It is our hope that the noble labor upon which the Congress is engaged, that of drawing the nations of the world closer together by means of a common auxiliary language, will soon receive the appreciation which such an endeavor deserves. The Bahá’í teachings emphatically declare that there can be no consummation of World Peace nor realization of international unity without the factor of an international auxiliary language. The Bahá’ís in more than forty countries are today promoting this important truth.

The National Spiritual Assembly are pleased to announce to the Esperantists that they have invited Miss Zamenhof to come to the United States this autumn as their guest. Every opportunity will be extended to the national and local societies to avail themselves of Miss Zamenhof’s services as an Esperantist teacher and lecturer.

Very truly yours,

HORACE HOLLEY, Secretary.

June 26, 1937.

“TRUTHS WHICH LIE AT THE BASIS OF OUR FAITH”[edit]

Excerpts from the Guardian’s Interpretation of the Fundamental Teachings[edit]

It should also be borne in mind that, great as is the power manifested by this Revelation and however vast the range of the Dispensation its Author has inaugurated, it emphaticaly repudiates the claim to be regarded as the final revelation of God’s will and purpose for mankind. To hold such a conception of its character and functions would be tantamount to a betrayal of its cause and a denial of its truth. It must necessarily conflict with the fundamental principle which constitutes the bedrock of Bahá’í belief, the principle that religious truth is not absolute but relative, that Divine Revelation is orderly, continuous and progressive and not spasmodic or final. Indeed, the categorical rejection by the followers of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh of the claim to finality which any religious system inaugurated by the Prophets of the past may advance is as clear and emphatic as their own refusal to claim that same finality for the Revelation with which they stand identified. “To believe that all revelation is ended, that the portals of Divine mercy are closed, that from the day-springs of eternal holiness no sun shall rise again, that the ocean of everlasting bounty is forever stilled, and that out of the tabernacle of ancient glory the Messengers of God have ceased to be made manifest” must constitute in the eyes of every follower of the Faith a grave, an inexcusable departure from one of its most cherished and fundamental principles....

In the light of these clear and conclusive statements it is our clear duty to make it indubitably evident to every seeker after truth that from “the be-beginning that hath no beginning” the Prophets of the one, the unknowable God, including Bahá’u’lláh Himself, have all, as the channels of God’s grace, as the exponents of His unity, as the mirrors of His light and the revealers of His purpose, been commissioned to unfold to mankind an ever-increasing measure of His truth, of His inscrutable will and Divine guidance, and will continue to “the end that hath no end” to vouchsafe still fuller and mightier revelations of His limitless power and glory.—From “The Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh.”

MR. AND MRS. W. S. MAXWELL ACKNOWLEDGE LETTERS AND CABLEGRAMS[edit]

Mr. and Mrs. Maxwell have been unable to make acknowledgment of the many letters and cablegrams they have received in connection with the marriage of their daughter. They have requested the National Spiritual Assembly to express their thanks, and explain that personal replies will be made as soon as possible.

NEWS FROM IRAN AND INDIA[edit]

(Reprinted from Circular Letter issued by the Spiritual Assembly of Haifa.)[edit]

Mirza ‘Abdu’llah Motláq is one of the most active Bahá’í teachers in Persia. Recently, according to instructions from the National Spiritual Assembly, he visited Meshed, Sabzewar and Nishapur. He writes to our Beloved Guardian that he found the believers everywhere in utmost unity, upholding the sacred principles of the Faith with a joy and a zeal that were contagious to all who came in contact with them. Passionately devoted to our Beloved Guardian and rigorously following the directions of their Spiritual Assembly, the believers of Meshed are serving the Cause with great energy. Their activities are spread over several fields of service.

The believers had been forbidden by Government orders to hold meetings or assemblies of any kind. A week after the arrival of Mirza Motláq in Meshed, the believers took this opportunity to convene in groups in order to greet the visitor. At the same time there was a marked change in the attitude of the

[Page 8] authorities. They intentionally relaxed their vigilance and did not oppose the Bahá’í gatherings. Encouraged by the tolerance of the government officials and confirmed by divine assistance, these faithful followers of Bahá’u’lláh doubled their efforts and held as many as forty-three meetings weekly, no less than nineteen of which were for purposes of general gatherings; eight were committee meetings to organize the various activities of the Cause, five were devoted to conveying the Message to those interested to hear it, four were held in the form of classes to impart to those present (forty-five educated Bahá’í young men and women) methods of teaching and spreading the Bahá’í Faith. The held of service proved so ripe and so important that the National Assembly delegated a second Bahá’í teacher, Mirza ‘Abdu’l Hamid Ishráq to proceed to Meshed and stay there for six months, while Mirza Motláq continued his tour in the northeastern province of Persia imparting to the believers everywhere the latest instructions of our Beloved Guardian, kindling with the torch of love and unity the enthusiasm of the friends to greater heights of service and lighting the way for others who had so far lived in the darkness of their own souls.

Cheerful news of the ‎prgoress progress‎ of the Bahá’í Faith in the land of its birth is continuously received by our Beloved Guardian. Bahá’í teachers traveling from town to town and village to village carry with them the Message of a New Day and at the same time convey to the believers the latest instructions of our Beloved Guardian. A recent letter from a devoted Bahá’í teacher, Aghá Sohrab Ostowary, who has been visiting various Bahá’í centers, relates the developments of the Cause in the district of Fars, southern Persia. He reports enthusiastically about the activities of the Bahá’í local Assemblies and their Teaching Committees in spreading fearlessly the Bahá’í principles. “With a joyful and indomitable spirit,” he writes, “the believers are zealously pursuing their individual duties in a happy endeavor to overtake one another in the field of service and sacrifice.”

It is with profound regret that we announce the death of Colonel Dr. Ibrahim Piroozbakht, the Health Director of military schools in Persia, a devoted and serviceful believer, faithful to his duty, patient in his work and generous in treating without remuneration the needy who sought his skill. Most of his relations are fanatical Moslems. Three children of his own and one of his sisters together with some distant relatives are the only Bahá’ís in his family. His Moslem relatives protested vehemently against a Bahá’í burial and insisted that it should take place according to Mohammedan rites. They actually prepared a grave for him in a Moslem cemetery. But his daughter firmly and courageously maintained that as her father was a Bahá’í, it was his wish and her own that he should be hurried in the Bahá’í cemetery and in accordance with the Bahá’í burial service. Repeatedly and energetically the said relatives tried to persuade her to change her mind. Indomitable as ever, she finally succeeded in her demand.

The most remarkable fact about this sad event was its dignity, its impressiveness and the note of triumph that it struck for a Faith that asserts itself today more than ever before in the face of official opposition in the country of its origin.

We gather from a detailed account written by the Spiritual Assembly of Tihran that on the morning of the funeral one of the most important avenues of Tihran was thronged with believers and non-believers. The presence of numerous officers and army representatives delegated by the War Ministry was very conspicuous. The casket was placed on a special car decorated with a crown of flowers. A vast concourse of mourners followed on foot for some distance. The Minister of War himself, upon arriving, left his motor-car and joined the procession, thus adding to the great wonder and amazement of the crowd of non-believers that had lined the street. Tihran had seldom witnessed such an imposing scene. Shortly after, all took specially ordered cars that were waiting and followed the hearse to the cemetery outside the city where the Bahá’í funeral service took place. Bahá’í tablets and prayers were chanted. A number of officers and other non-believers who had accompanied the procession all the way were also present.

While this event marks a great loss to the Bahá’ís, yet they cannot but feel thankful that this bereavement was the occasion of still another demonstration of spiritual triumph—the triumph of the Teachings of Bahá’u’lláh over the dark forces which for well-nigh four score years and ten have blindly and maliciously tried, but in vain, to stop the progress of these Teachings.

In a letter addressed recently to our Beloved Guardian by Dr. S. H. Ali of Rangoon, Burma, there is an account of the visit of Mr. F. Schopflocher to India. The letter carries most happy news concerning this visit and points out the remarkable success of Mr. Schopflocher in reawakening the Bahá’í spirit and in spreading Bahá’u’lláh’s Message throughout his journey in India. One remembers in this connection the words of Bahá’u’lláh: “God will, no doubt, inspire whosoever detacheth himself from all else but Him, and will cause the pure waters of wisdom and utterance to gush out and flow copiously from his heart. Verily, thy Lord, the All-Merciful, is powerful to do as He willeth, and ordaineth whatsoever He pleaseth.”

The arrival of Mr. Schopflocher in Rangoon was announced in the leading newspapers of this city. Several public meetings were held, including one in the Hall of the Young Men’s Christian Association. The chairman of this particular meeting was His Excellency the Rajah Jay Pertawi Sing Bahadour of Nepal, a man who has traveled far and wide for the Cause of Universal Peace and international brotherhood. He was present at the World Congress of Religions in Chicago and witnessed the building of the Bahá’í House of Worship at Wilmette. He traveled recently to Ethiopia to be of service to the unhappy inhabitants of that land in their tragic conflict with Italy.

So profoundly impressed did the Rajah become by the splendour of the Bahá’í Faith as he intently listened to the words of Mr. F. Schopflocher that at the end of the next meeting—held in the Bahá’í Hall—he rose and to a house packed to overflowing he publicly voiced his conversion and allegiance to the Bahá’í Faith. The chairman of this meeting was a Buddhist priest, formerly a member of the All-India Legislative Council. He too was greatly affected by the Message.

Aside from these public gatherings, several private interviews were held with a number of influential men in Rangoon, with very encouraging results.

In brief the Bahá’í Call was raised in this city in a most glorious way, and there is no doubt that Mr. Schopflocher was divinely assisted and confirmed in this—“the most meritorious of all deeds”—of proclaiming His Message.