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| No. 143 | YEAR 98, BAHÁ’Í ERA | MAY, 1941 |
“Now is the moment in which to cleanse thyself with the waters of detachment that have flowed out from the Supreme Pen, and to ponder, wholly for the sake of God, those things which, time and again, have been sent down or manifested, and then to strive, as much as lieth in thee, to quench, through the power of wisdom and the force of thy utterance, the fire of enmity and hatred which smouldereth in the hearts of the peoples of the world. The Divine Messengers have been sent down, and their Books were revealed, for the purpose of promoting the knowledge of God, and of furthering unity and fellowship amongst men. But now behold, how they have made the Law of God a cause and pretext for perversity and hatred. How pitiful, how regrettable, that most men are cleaving fast to, and have busied themselves with, the things they possess, and are unaware of, and shut out as by a veil from, the things God possesseth!" — BAHÁ’U’LLÁH, Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, page 12.
The Guardian’s Messages to the 1941 Convention[edit]
(The) Fifth Year (of the) Seven Year Plan (is) opening (under) circumstances (of) utmost gravity (in) Eastern (and) Western Hemispheres. (The) fever of the times (is) steadily mounting, throwing (into) sharper relief (the) contrast between (the) rising greatness (of the) Faith (of) Bahá’u’lláh (and the) falling fortunes (of a) moribund civilization. (The) American Bahá’í Community, rapidly pursuing (the) career traced (by) unerring finger (of) ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, can neither halt nor waver. (I) cannot forbear address my particular plea (to) focus, owing (to) virtual termination (of) Temple ornamentation, attention (on) teaching requirements of the) Plan. (I) Appeal (to) incoming National Assembly, its auxiliary Teaching Committees and subsidiary agencies (to) deliberate (and) devise means (to) insure prompt reinstatement (of the) Assemblies recently disbanded (and) formation (of) Assembly (in) each newly-opened State (and) Province (of) North America and continuity (of the) consolidation (of the) pioneer work initiated (in) every Latin Republic. Undismayed (by) aggravation (of the) fury (of the) world tempest threatening their shores, scornful (of the) agitation stirred up (by their) adversaries, (the) breakers, (of the) Covenant, (the) resolute upholders (of the) Divine Plan will, indeed cannot but, persist (in their) ordained task (to) propagate (the) flame, enlarge (the) administrative limits, (and) strike deeper roots (of the) world-encircling, world-redeeming Faith (of) Bahá’u’lláh.
Cablegram received April 23, 1941.
Delighted Convention’s noble determination. Fervently praying (for) increasing capacity, still more brilliant exploits. Deepest love.
Cablegram received April 28, 1941.
Convention Message to Shoghi Effendi[edit]
Convention determined fulfil Master’s hope (for) Temple, accelerate consolidation newly born groups, extension Beloved’s Faith. Yearn capacity (to) receive your guidance (and) strength. Entreat prayers. Grateful (for) bounty (of) service. Send our hearts’ love (and) devotion.
Cablegram sent April 24, 1941.
Messages to the National Spiritual Assembly[edit]
Assure Marion Jack (my) loving,
fervent prayers (and) high admiration
(of) her heroic perseverance,
noble courage (and) exemplary
stewardship (of the) Cause (of)
Bahá’u’lláh. Much impressed (by)
superbly conceived, courageously
outspoken, truly inspired statement
embodied in the general letter pages two
to four in Australian Bahá’í Quarterly.
Advise publication (in its) entirety
this letter (in) American
Bahá’í News. Regard it best answer
to certain believers requesting clarification
(of) statement entitled
“Grace That Sustains” in June
[Page 2]
Bahá’í News. Advise read full text
(of) letter (at) Convention.
Cablegram received April 19, 1941.
Newly elected Assembly’s supreme objective (is) steadily direct energies, energetically coordinate enterprises, fan (the) flame (of) enthusiasm, remove impediments (in) progress (of the) teaching activities (of the) Bahá’í communities (of the) Americas. Praying unprecedented success.
Cablegram received May 2, 1941.
It is his considered view that the Regional Teaching Committees, though appointed by the N. S. A., should be directly responsible to the National Teaching Committee, inasmuch as this body’s specific task is to supervise, direct and coordinate, under the general guidance of the N. S. A., all teaching activities throughout the U. S. A. and Canada.
The N. S. A.’s final jurisdiction over both the National Teaching Committee and the Regional Teaching Committees is certainly indisputable, and is of the same nature and character as the authority to which it is entitled over all other national committees.
The Regional Teaching Committees should henceforth be asked to send their reports directly to the National Teaching Committee, and to ask for their directions as to the most effective way they can carry on their respective teaching tasks. By so doing, the National Teaching Committee will undoubtedly help in relieving the N. S. A. of unnecessary details, and will also avoid duplication and congestion of work, particularly now that the N. S. A. is assuming such great responsibilities under the Seven Year Plan.
From letter dated February 2, 1941, written through the Guardian’s Secretary.
The Guardian will pray that the general conditions outside the Cause and the inevitable repercussions which further deterioration in the international situation might bring on America, will not reach such a point as to seriously hinder the friends in bringing this enterprise (i.e., Temple construction) to full completion.
The concern you have expressed for the Guardian following recent air raids on Haifa, has deeply touched and moved him, and he wishes me to assure you that no casualties whatever have been suffered by any of the believers here, and that all Bahá’í properties and institutions, including the Holy Shrines, have been spared. No doubt, Bahá’u’lláh will continue to vouchsafe His unfailing protection to the believers in every land, how much more to those who are directly and more particularly associated with the administration of the affairs of His Faith, whether at its world-center in the Holy Land or abroad.
From letter dated November 20, 1940, written through the Guardian’s Secretary to Allen B. McDaniel.
Dear and Valued Co-Worker:
The successive communications, whether letters or cables, that have lately been received from the States, whether from the National Assembly or individual believers, eloquently proclaim the magnificent spirit and the remarkable achievements of the American believers. I rejoice and feel deeply thankful for these blessings of Bahá’u’lláh vouchsafed to them in these days of ever-increasing stress and turmoil . . .
The Guardian’s postscript to this letter.
He has been again most pleased to note that the Temple work is making steady and speedy progress, and that the Trustees hope that the nine faces of the main story ornamentation will be completed by the latter part of next year.
The news of the completion of the reinforced concrete walls, of the entrance ways and areaways, has also been most encouraging to him, and he too hopes that this will now make it possible to go ahead with the grading of the grounds, and also with their seeding, so that by next spring the Temple grounds will look as attractive as possible, especially in view of the great flow of delegates and visitors which the Temple would attract at that time of the year.
As regards the construction of the accessory building, adjacent to the caretaker’s house in the Temple area, the Guardian would urge that every effort should be made to have the building ready as soon as possible for use as the headquarters of both the Treasurer and of the Publishing Committee. The transfer of these committees to the vicinity of the Temple and of the Hazirat’sul-Quds is indeed a step of historic significance, and one which is bound to increase the efficiency and heighten the prestige of the national administrative institutions of the Faith in America.
From letter dated December 13, 1940. written through the Guardian’s Secretary to Allen B. McDaniel.
He is fully pleased with the work so far accomplished, and hopes that by now the first three faces of the main story have been duly completed. He has now every reason to believe that should the present rate of progress in the ornamentation work be maintained throughout the coming year, and should the flow of contributions be as steady and substantial as it has been so far, the entire edifice will be completed far ahead of the schedule, thus giving still another striking evidence of the unremitting zeal and inexhaustible resourcefulness that have been so remarkably and so consistently displayed by the American believers in their collective exertions for the termination of this unique, and indeed historic enterprise.
The photographs you had kindly sent showing the progress of the various construction activities were indeed excellent, and the Guardian has distributed some of them to various pilgrims from Iran who, upon their return home, will no doubt share them with the rest of the believers. They will all derive much needed comfort and encouragement from these pictures, and will surely be further strengthened in their resolve to courageously face and patiently endure the many trials and tribulations to which they are being increasingly subjected.
From letter dated January 18, 1941, written through the Guardian’s Secretary to Allen B. McDaniel.
Kindly assure the National Assembly of his deepest appreciation of their very generous offering, which he will use for the promotion of vital international interests of the Faith. A separate receipt duly signed by him is enclosed for your files . . .
He hopes and will continue to pray that the flow of contributions to the Temple Fund will remain uninterrupted, nay, will so increase as to insure the full consummation of this glorious and sacred undertaking at the appointed time.
From letter dated December 2, 1940, written through the Guardian’s Secretary to Roy C. Wilhelm.
Regarding the state of the National Fund, which you have reported as suffering from a general slackness in contributions from both individual believers and the local Assemblies and groups. It is only evident that unless the flow of donations is regularly maintained by means of generous and continual support by all the believers, individually and collectively, the National Fund will never be able to meet the needs and requirements of the Cause, particularly in these days when the national activities of the American believers are assuming such wide and increasing proportions.
From letter dated February 3, 1941, written through the Guardian’s Secretary to Roy C. Wilhelm.
Main Story Ornamentation No. 4, April 7, 1941, showing point reached at end of Fourth Year of Seven Your Plan.
“The Promised Day Is Come”[edit]
A general letter addressed by the Guardian to the Bahá’ís of the West will shortly be published as a pamphlet entitled The Promised Day Is Come. Advance proofs of the first part of the letter have been given delegates and local Assemblies. Final publication can not be made until the entire text, mailed in installments, has been received. The scope of this great document is indicated by the excerpts here reprinted. Undoubtedly the study classes maintained by local Assemblies and groups for believers will revolve around this message in which Shoghi Effendi upholds the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh as supreme challenge to civilization and to man.
“A tempest, unprecedented in its violence, unpredictable in its course, catastrophic in its immediate effects, unimaginably glorious in its ultimate consequences, is at present sweeping the face of the earth. Its driving power is remorselessly gaining in range and momentum. Its cleansing force, however, much undetected, is increasing with every passing day. Humanity, gripped in the clutches of its devastating power, is smitten by the evidences of its resistless fury. It can neither perceive its origin, nor probe its significance, nor discern its outcome. Bewildered, agonized and helpless, it watches this great and mighty wind of God invading the remotest and fairest regions of the earth, rocking its foundations, deranging its equilibrium, sundering its nations, disrupting the homes of its peoples, wasting its cities, driving into exile its kings, pulling down its bulwarks, uprooting its institutions, dimming its light, and harrowing up the souls of its inhabitants. . . .
“This judgment of God, as viewed by those who have recognized Bahá’u’lláh as His Mouthpiece and His greatest Messenger on earth, is both a retributory calamity and an act of holy and supreme discipline. It is at once a visitation from God and a cleansing process for all mankind. Its fires punish the perversity of the human race, and weld its component parts into one organic, indivisible, world-embracing community. Mankind, in these fateful years, which at once signalize the passing of the first century of the Bahá’í Era and proclaim the opening of a new one, is, as ordained by Him Who is both the Judge and the Redeemer of the human race, being simultaneously called upon to give an account of its past actions, and is being purged and prepared for its future mission. It can neither escape the responsibilities in the past, nor shirk those of the future. God, the Vigilant, the Just, the Loving, the All-Wise Ordainer, can, in this supreme Dispensation, neither allow the sins of an unregenerate humanity, whether of omission or of commission, to go unpunished, nor will He be willing to abandon His children to their fate, and refuse them that culminating and blissful stage in their long, their slow and painful evolution throughout the ages, which is at once their inalienable right and their true destiny.”
The friends will be informed when
copies of the pamphlet can be obtained
[Page 4]
from the Publishing Committee.
Bahá’í Display arranged by Marguerite Bruegger in Shotwell’s Floral Shop, Fargo, North Dakota, Spring, 1941.
The Fifth Year of the Seven Year Plan[edit]
To the Spiritual Assemblies, Communities and Groups of the Bahá’ís of the United States and Canada.
Beloved Friends:
In the Guardian’s cabled Message to the Convention we have the clear and forceful expression of his plea addressed to the American Bahá’í Community at this great hour of destiny. Whatever may befall, throughout this Bahá’í year we are to pursue steadfastly the “career traced by unerring finger of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá,” and can “neither halt nor waver.”
We are to consider that the Temple ornamentation has been reduced to the final stage of performance, that of contracts executed by the Temple Trustees with the John J. Earley Studios, payment for which is to be provided through the Annual Budget outlined below.
We are concentrating all our resources, national, regional and local, upon the teaching aspect of the Seven Year Plan. Before us lies the spiritual map of North, Central and South America. We are to strive unceasingly until on that map is indicated in glowing light the existence of local Spiritual Assemblies in all States and Provinces of North America, and of active and vigorous Bahá’í groups in all other American nations.
The first charge upon the current Budget is the sum of $30,000 set up for teaching work, about twice the amount devoted to that purpose in any previous year. Detailed plans will be announced as soon as possible. Meanwhile, all the friends can prepare themselves inwardly by prayer and supplication for worthiness and capacity to be instruments for the promulgation of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh.
With that inward and spiritual preparation our National Committees, the Regional Committees, the valiant pioneers, the local Assemblies, communities and groups—all the American Bahá’ís, individually and collectively—will be charged with irresistible zeal and enthusiasm for the sacred task.
If any local community has been divided, any Assembly weak and ineffective, such a condition can and must be overcome, for such conditions cut us off from the Power which confirms the teaching effort of the humblest soul. Teaching, indeed, is the supreme test of our faith, our knowledge, our unity and our love of the Cause. For teaching must be motivated by pure spirit and at the same time must be made effective by the coordination of the whole community through the various teaching agencies and administrative institutions. Teaching is the health and strength of the Bahá’í community.
May 1, 1941—April 30, 1942
The Budget adopted for the Fifth Year of the Seven Year Plan contains the following items:—
| Teaching, North and South America | $30,000 | ||
| Completion main story ornamentation | $35,000 | ||
| Repayment loan for Temple construction | $20,000 | ||
| Administration, including contributions to International Fund, all committee budgets except teaching, and all property maintenance and operation | $40,000 | ||
| Printing cost, The Bahá’í World, Vol. VIII | $6,000 | ||
| Contingent and unforeseen items | $19,000 | ||
| $150,000 |
Schedule of Meetings of National Spiritual Assembly
In publishing its schedule of meetings, including the dates of the 1942 Convention, the National Assembly wishes to announce that important matters should be submitted to the Assembly a week in advance of the meeting and in writing. This will enable the members to deal with their agenda more effectively than when matters are rushed to the meetings after sessions have begun. The business of the Cause increases yearly. The believers will surely cooperate in contributing to the efficiency of the N. S. A. It must be borne in mind that its members, in addition to the affairs of the American Bahá’í community and the teaching work in South America, bear responsibility for Temple, Green Acre, Wilhelm, Bosch, and Wilson (Maiden) properties as trustees for the Bahá’ís.
May 30, 31, June 1, Wilmette. July 4, 5, 6, Wilmette. August 15, 16, 17, Green Acre. October 3, 4, 5, 6, Wilmette. November 14, 15, 16, Wilmette. January 2, 3, 4, 1942, Wilmette. February 21, 22, 23, Wilmette. April 3, 4, 5, Wilmette. April 29, Wilmette. 1942 Convention, April 30, May 1, 2, 3.
Communication With the Believers
The National Assembly will this
year concentrate on the Bahá’í News as
the organ of communication with the Assemblies,
groups and communities,
with special letters from time to time
as may be required. In Bahá’í News
we have the instrument which brings
[Page 5]
all the believers together in one
great audience. It will publish as
much current news as possible, and
news reports should therefore be
brief, to leave room for others.
In conclusion: the National Spiritual Assembly will strive to stand behind and assist all its Committees in their important undertakings. It will encourage and assist the local Assemblies in their performance of their great Bahá’í mission. It will serve the teachers and pioneers with all available spiritual and material resources. At Nineteen Day Feasts and Anniversaries let us pray for the removal of all difficulties which stand in the way of our teaching, and for the rending of all veils of misunderstanding which may prevent full cooperation among the friends. The greater our privilege, the more we will all be held to account for our motives and action in His Cause.
- Faithfully yours,
- in service to the Cause,
- NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY
- Faithfully yours,
Luncheon held in connection with the Week of Science at la Universidád in Panama. (Third from the left is Señorita Emerita Guevara, student of the Bahá’í Faith who has just won the Latin American Fellowship of the American Association of University Women for the academic year 1941-42.)
The Annual Election[edit]
At the Friday evening session of the Convention, April 25, the tellers reported the result of the annual election as follows:—
162 ballots were cast. Votes were not received from seven delegates. Two Assemblies were dissolved for lack of numbers after they had elected one delegate each, and thus disqualified the two delegates.
Louis G. Gregory received 132 votes; Horace Holley 131 votes; Allen B. McDaniel, 130 votes; Roy C. Wilhelm, 125 votes; Siegfried Schopflocher, 122 votes; Mrs. Dorothy Baker, 116 votes; Mrs. Amelia E. Collins, 90 votes; Mr. Leroy Ioas, 89 votes; Mr. George O. Latimer, 83 votes.
This Assembly proceeded to organize with the following officers: Allen B. McDaniel, Chairman; Mrs. Dorothy Baker, Vice-Chairman; Horace Holley, Secretary; Roy C. Wilhelm, Treasurer; Siegfried Schopflocher, Assistant Treasurer; Louis G. Gregory, Recording Secretary.
Communications intended for the National Assembly should be addressed to the Secretary or to the National Bahá’í Office, 536 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, Illinois. Communications intended for the Treasurer should be addressed to the Treasurer, or to the National Bahá’í Fund, 110 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois.
The Bahá’í Cause Today[edit]
The special attention of the friends is called to the May, 1941 issue of World Order Magazine. It contains the reply written by Mrs. Marzieh Gail to the attack on the Cause written by Rev. William McElwee Miller, former missionary in Irán, as published in the October, 1940 issue of The Moslem World and later reprinted as a pamphlet circulated for some reason among the members of the Bahá’í Faith.
Mrs. Gail’s admirable exposition of the issues raised by the Rev. Miller is preceded by a brief statement prepared by the National Spiritual Assembly. Extra copies of the May number have been printed, as many believers will doubtless wish to give a copy to some non-Bahá’í friend still unable to rise above the standpoint of traditional creed. In localities where the Cause is attacked by religious leaders, the friends can also make excellent use of this reply, along with the Guardian’s own clear statement reprinted under the title of Religion a Living Organism.
Copies of the May number of World Order can be obtained from the magazine business office, 110 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, for 15c each or eight copies for $1.00. Religion a Living Organism, by Shoghi Effendi, Bahá’í Reprint No. 4, sells for $2.00 per 100 copies. The friends are urged to give special study to this question of the true relation between the Revelation of Christ and that of Bahá’u’lláh.
Temple Construction[edit]
As could be seen by the delegates present at the Convention, the important matter of Temple construction under the Seven Year Plan has entered its final phase. The land graded last fall has been sown with rye grass seed to provide rootage and bind the soil against erosion as well as to cover the earth with verdure. The parking place has been arranged along Linden Avenue, just west of the Temple property. The truck entrance to the Foundation hall from Sheridan Road, near the bridge, needs completing the surface of the road inside the fence and also a concrete approach from the curb to the fence. This cannot be done until Sheridan Road has been realigned.
As Mr. Earley explained to the Convention, the exterior ornamentation of the main story can be finished this calendar year, and work has already begun. The next and perhaps final contract under the Seven Year Plan is for the steps, and work has been authorized under an arrangement which will call for monthly payments beginning January, 1942, with the steps completed by July or August of that year.
The Legal Case[edit]
The friends are informed that with the Guardian’s approval an appeal has been taken on the decision made by a judge of the New York Supreme Court on April 1, and the matter is therefore still in the process of settlement.
In response to inquiries received from many believers who wish to know what they should do with the literature received unsolicited from the New History Society, the National Assembly advises the friends to mark the envelopes “refused” and drop them in the nearest post box or post office, for return to the sender.
Inter-America News[edit]
“Center your energies in the propagation of the Faith of God. Whoso is worthy of so high a calling, let him arise and promote it. Whoso is unable, it is his duty to appoint him who will, in his stead, proclaim this Revelation, whose power hath caused the foundations of the mightiest structures to quake, every mountain to be crushed into dust and every soul to be dumbfounded.” —Bahá’u’lláh.
The Inter-America Committee wishes to bring to the attention of the Bahá’í Community of North America the eagerness with which they await new applications for pioneer posts in Central and South America. It is the obligation and the very great privilege of this community to eventually form an indissoluble chain throughout the entire Western Hemisphere. New cities must be reached and pioneers are needed to take the place of others who have been forced to return to this country. It is important that as much continuity as possible be maintained in the teaching work.
Asuncion, Paraguay
Miss Elizabeth Cheney reports that she has received a permit that will allow her to stay indefinitely in Paraguay. She writes that just four weeks after arriving in Asuncion the first Bahá’í meeting was held in Paraguay. A former National Minister of Education acted as chairman. There were about thirty people present, among them persons of prominence in the country. Of particular interest was that about a third of the audience were women, which in Paraguay is very unusual as they are inclined to take very little interest
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On April 27, the incoming National Spiritual Assembly sent the following cablegram to Shoghi Effendi:— “Assembly consecrated (to) intensified teaching effort, Gregory, Holley, McDaniel, Wilhelm, Schopflocher, Baker, Collins, Ioas, Latimer. Same officers. Owing impending severe curtailment private construction projects, delighted (to) report arrangement (to) complete exterior ornamentation and steps (at) total cost (of) $65,000 (with) payment spread (over) two years. First appropriation (is) $30,000 (for) teaching. Convention radiant, infused (with) teaching enthusiasm, determined fulfil your cabled appeal. Devoted love.” |
in religious matters outside the narrow round of the Catholic Church. The subject of the talk was “La Paz Universal.” All of those present expressed real interest and a desire to attend other meetings.
Wonderful letters have been received from Miss Cheney. She recently inclosed a picture of the Bahá’í Class in Paraguay. Due to the disturbed political conditions in the Country she has made no effort to secure publicity, but has a regular attendance at the weekly meetings of approximately thirty people. Two of the members of the class are starting a Youth Group.
A noted sculptor of Paraguay has been studying a picture of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to assist him in making a head of the Christ. He said, “The Christ would have looked like that, except that He did not suffer for so many years.”
The Group sent Naw-Rúz greetings to the Bahá’í’s of North America.
Panama
Mrs. Louise Caswell has sent in a card for Srta. Guevara, winner of the University Women’s Fellowship. She will attend the University of California at Berkeley. She attended the Bahá’í classes held by Mrs. Oliver and Mrs. Caswell.
Mrs. Oliver and Mrs. Caswell report that they have had several visitors from home who are passing through the Canal. They again stressed the need for men pioneers.
Brazil
Miss Leonore Holsapple reports that she has completed the translation of “The Goal of a New World Order” into Portuguese. This translation will prove of great value to the teaching work in Brazil.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Mr. Philip Sprague has returned from Buenos Aires, where he has been conducting a most successful group of classes. He reports that in one class there were seventeen young people, five of whom are believers. This brings the total number of believers to fifteen. Mr. Sprague was able to obtain radio time for sixteen talks. Two half-hour periods a week for eight weeks. He has also been instrumental in having the “Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh” translated into Spanish. This is indeed a great service as it will assist immensely in the teaching work throughout Latin-America.
Havana, Cuba
Mrs. Hoagg writes encouragingly of the work in Havana, where she has been holding classes regularly. She had planned to stay in Cuba until the middle of April.
Mrs. Hoagg has sent in a newspaper account, which included a Temple picture, of her talk before the Women’s Club of Havana. She reports two new believers.
Chile
A complete report has been received from Mrs. Marcia Atwater on her work in Santiago, the following is a quotation from her letter and will bring joy to the hearts of the friends in North America.
“First, let me say that the work is
being done in five distinct directions
—the Theosophical Society, whose
President yesterday offered me the
T.S. platform for early in March and
assured me of his efforts to effect a
complete turn-out to hear the lecture
—then secondly, a group of people
whom Bahá’u’lláh has seen fit to put
in my path and who come under no
particular heading—these are the
people who gather for the Sunday
classes, which become larger and
better each time. Thirdly is the Chilean
Government, which doors have
been opened through my connection
with the Press. Am having tea
tomorrow with the Minister of Information
and Propaganda. Fourthly is
the University group, which connections
[Page 7]
are due to mature the end of
this week as we have an engagement
to meet the woman who is
most important in this connection,
who speaks English and through
whom I hope to secure permission to
speak from the University platform.
The latter introduction comes from
two sources, the head of the Theosophical
Soc. and a personal introduction
I already had. Fifthly is the
American Newspaper group which
will act, or I should say re-act, back
in the U.S. to help the Cause there.
We have been interviewed, picture
taken, the whole story of Cause given in
connection with pioneer work here,
by a travelling press man from Denver,
Colorado. . . To be short and
clear we must say that Bahá’u’lláh
has done nothing less than set on
fire the entire city of Santiago. . .
The man I mentioned from Colorado
had been to the Holy Land some
years ago and was telling me about
it—it seemed that one day while in
Beirut College he was sitting wondering
which route to take to Egypt,
when a young man came up to him
and spent an hour helping him plan
the nicest journey possible. Then
this man disappeared. My friend
turned to some others and said,
“who in the world was that helpful
stranger”; and the reply was that
he was a Bahá’í and it is a part of
his religion to help others without
remuneration. The man from Colorado
could not forget that incident, and it
was that act of that dear Persian
brother, which was responsible for
my interview, pictures, etc. and enabled
me to interest the young
American in the Faith enough to
promise to read and study it! . . . I
have met with such extreme kindness
and courtesy that I can’t describe
it—what a tribute it is to Bahá’u’lláh. . .
Books have been
placed in a key bookshop—and the
owner has undertaken to mail out
some of the pamphlets to certain
favored customers.”
Mrs. Marcia Steward Atwater has had excellent publicity and has found great courtesy and consideration among all types of people. She enclosed four registration cards which make a group of six believers in Santiago. She is more than pleased as all those who have signed cards are people of great capacity and understanding. One is a Chilean professor who speaks five languages. Two of the men of the group plan to go South of Santiago where they
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Orders can now be filled on “Epistle To the Son of the Wolf,” translated by Shoghi Effendi. This Tablet is beautifully bound in two-tone cloth, the type style being similar to that used in the “Gleanings.” 185 pages, with Index kindly prepared by Miss Flora Hottes. Per copy, $1.50. Address Bahá’í Publishing Committee, 110 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois. |
own a ranch to establish a Bahá’í Summer School. Mrs. Atwater has sent some articles to the Pasadena Star News which are expected to be published in the near future. She also spoke of enjoying a three day visit from Mrs. Barton, who is on her way home to the United States.
Honduras
Mrs. Frances Stewart has written a very interesting and encouraging account of her recent teaching work in several of the Central American countries; it can perhaps be best presented in her own words.
“Before going further I want to report of my very happy time in lovely Honduras! In a former letter I wrote of my having so many doors opened by friends from Washington and from these other nations and so I was most cordially welcomed as I arrived in Honduras. Women connected with our Peace organization, these women opened all doors for me and I was soon lecturing in all kinds of women’s organizations and schools. I had three long visits with the President of Honduras, Sr. T. Carias and his family, his car was at my disposal during my stay and he later sent me to the great Maya ruins at Copan in his plane. . . I had to return to the city, for I was to be a guest of the Rotary Club at a special dinner where the wives and women friends were also guests. It was a most happy occasion and one that will be long remembered. . . . The following day a wonderful group of men and women met in the Rotary Club rooms and the Honduras Committee on Inter-American Culture was established. . . From among these new friends I found several who were ready for the Greatest Bond, spiritual reality, and they came to hear my Bahá’í talks and joined up with the permanent group of students.” Mrs. Stewart goes on to tell of her lecture at the Casino, the finest social club in Honduras, the University and in several schools where special programs were arranged for her. The Director of the School of Fine Arts was greatly interested in the Cause and asked for several pictures of the Temple, as he desired to put them in the Art Gallery as an inspiration to his students. He plans to be in the U.S. next fall and hopes to visit the Temple.
“Now I tell you the best good news! I add to this a list of the people that attended nearly all of my fourteen Bahá’í talks while I was in Tegucigalpa, from Jan. 21 to Feb. 25, 1941. There were 27 in all but this does not include the many, many persons who heard of the Cause or of one or more aspects of it. Many persons were constantly at my Hotel for personal interviews on all kinds of social problems and to them I explained the Bahá’í attitude on these problems. Among these were the Ministers from Peru, from Mexico, a famous Historian and the President of the First Inter-American Congress of Indians held in Mexico last spring. People from Belgium, Spain, England, Arabia, Russia and France as well as many Latin American nations.
“On February 15 the study group elected their permanent Committee to carry on the study preparatory to the day when they can elect a Spiritual Assembly. I am so very happy over that Committee, for it is composed of outstanding people of great capacity and who stand before the Community as leaders in though.”
Guatemala
Mrs. Stewart also reports that the group in Guatemala has a meeting regularly and shows splendid signs of progress.
Nicaragua
Mr. Mathew Kaszab is being assisted in the teaching work in Nicaragua by Mrs. Frances Stewart, who reports that she has received much favorable publicity and hopes to be able to give many talks while in the country.
Mrs. Stewart informs us that she has been able to contact many people in Managua and that many have been attracted to the Cause. The newspapers have given her much space. She hopes to get to Costa Rica in the near future.
Bahá’í Study Class in San Salvador
Uruguay
Mr. Wilfred Barton writes that he has moved to a more central location at Convention 1487, Apartment 3. He also enclosed the names of two new believers, Srta. Emilia A. Martinez Morente and Sr. Abraham Kassabian. He reports regular classes being held in Montevideo.
Mazatlan, Mexico
Mrs. Pilkington, who is visiting in her native city, Mazatlan, says that she has interested several people in the Cause. She is most fortunate in being able to give the Cause in the language of the Country.
Quito, Ecuador
The Inter-America Committee has received Naw-Rúz greetings from John Stearns in Quito with a report that the spreading of the Cause is going steadily forward. His new address is Aptdo. 696, Quito, Ecuador.
San Domingo
Miss Gertrude Gewertz is expecting to go to San Domingo to be with Miss Lentz and if she can find employment will remain. Miss Margaret Lentz is delighted with the prospect of having assisted in the pioneer work.
Peru
Miss Eve Nicklin, who at one time worked with Miss Holsapple in Brazil, is preparing to go to Peru as a pioneer.
La Paz, Bolivia
We regret to say that Mrs. Eleanor Adler, who has been in La Paz for the last few months is obliged to return home.
San Jose, Costa Rica
Mrs. Cora Oliver writes from Costa Rica of the excellent work being done by Mrs. Woolson and Mrs. Ford. She considers the work they are doing in Costa Rica outstanding in the pioneer field.
Port Au Prince, Haiti
Good news has been received from the Blackwells. They have sent in three registration cards, a Mr. and Mrs. McBean and Miss Muriel Johnson. The McBeans have opened their home for meetings. They report it very difficult to spread the Cause in Haiti because they are handicapped by the lack of literature in French.
“Know that he is truly learned who hath acknowledged My Revelation, and drunk from the Ocean of My knowledge, and soared in the atmosphere of My love, and cast away all else besides Me, and taken firm hold on that which hath been sent down from the Kingdom of My wondrous utterances. He, verily, is even as an eye unto mankind, and as the spirit of life unto the body of all creation.”—BAHÁ'U'LLÁH, Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, page 83.
Our Bahá’í Schools[edit]
“Indeed, it is very important for the Faith, to extend the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh amongst the youth, as it is through their activities that the Cause of our beloved Master will in future spread all over the American Continent. They have upon their shoulders all the responsibilities for the progress of the Movement; it is our duty to rear their spiritual feelings, and enlighten their hearts with the light of guidance which has been shed upon us by the Master.
“It is very interesting to follow up the development these institutions make from year to year and the way they attract attention more and more. Before long, Shoghi Effendi hopes, they will become powerful and well-established organizations that will train innumerable young men and women to go out into the world and spread the message of Bahá’u’lláh. Definite courses should be given along the different phases of the Bahá’í Faith and in a manner that will stimulate the students to proceed in their studies privately once they return home, for the period of a few days is not sufficient to learn everything. They have to be taught the habit of studying the Cause constantly, for the more we
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The National Spiritual Assembly has cabled the sum of ninety-five pounds to the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Egypt and the Sudan as a contribution from the American friends toward the cost of constructing their Bahá’í headquarters. The gift was made in order to associate the American believers with this historic enterprise. |
read the Words the more will the truth they contain be revealed to us.”—Shoghi Effendi.
The International School has added a new feature for 1941; a youth session. At the Ranch accommodates only 19 persons, the sessions must be divided. The first concern of the International School last year was the study of the Latin American mind; its religious background and psychology. The second concern was the study of the culture, history, and music of the Latin Americans, so that a sympathetic basis of appreciation would be formed in the mind of the student. The third interest of the school was the effort to reach the people of Colorado Springs who, through the long years previously had exhibited little or no interest in the Faith. Symposiums, given by 4 teachers, were immensely helpful and from a handful of people the audiences grew to well over 100. This year the first session will be held from June 20 to June 30, the youth session from July 1st to 10th.
The Geyserville School is making
plans for a busy session this year.
We hear from Mrs. Louise Groger of
that committee that a special feature
is again being arranged for the
children who attend. Last year, 24
children attended the school; 9 of
them from non-Bahá’í families in
Geyserville and vicinity. The effect
is best expressed by the remark of
one eleven year old girl, who said,
“Isn’t it funny, during summer
school, I am a Bahá’í, even if I am
a Catholic the rest of the year.”
Classes were held regularly every
day for the first two or three weeks
of the school. Hours were from 9:30
a.m. to 12:00. One hour and a quarter
was given to outlined work, and
one hour and a quarter to art and
[Page 9]
handicraft. Outlines used were,
Creation, Bahá’í Principles, and Bahá’í
Founders. The Children’s Committee
sponsored a Round Table, at
which the following ideas and suggestions
were brought forth:
- 1. Give children a place on the
program at home and school whenever possible.
- 2. Use pageants and simple play
as simple mediums of childhood expression.
- 3. Develop neighborhood play,
with Bahá’í supervision.
- 4. Let traveling teachers qualified
to do so, assist in starting children’s classes wherever possible.
- 5. Use Bahá’í books as awards.
- 6. There is a need for songs,
plays, pageants, handicraft suggestions, and more study outlines. Such original material, successfully developed in the schools, should be submitted to the Child Education Committee for further use.
The Children’s Committee of the Geyserville School calls the attention of the public to the fact that the youth group age ranges from 15 to 25, and those responsible for children under 15 are requested to see that these students enter the children’s classes. As special facilities are provided for children at this school, it is urged that every family try to bring at least one child. Every boy and girl at Geyserville enjoys a summer vacation, increased good health, a growing knowledge of the Cause and the spirit of Bahá’í living.
Children’s Class, Geyserville Bahá’í School, July, 1940.
International Bahá’í School[edit]
Second Inter-American Session Teachers’ Session June 20-30 Youth Session July 1-10
On June 20, if plans remain unchanged, the Session will be host to Conductor Skolanski and his orchestra of sixty young people from all the countries of Latin America.
On June 21, Prof. Richard F. Behrendt, recently of Panama University, will speak on The Drama of Today As Seen in Latin America. He will be available all day to answer questions and talk over teaching problems with the Bahá’ís.
On Sunday the 22 we plan to have a joint lecture by Horace Holley and George O. Latimer. Their subjects will be concerned with the deep causes of human upheaval.
Prof. James Sykes will again speak on the music and culture of Latin America (this lecture will be repeated during the youth session). There will be one concert in each Session gratis by the Colorado College. Dates not yet selected. There will also be in each Session colored slides shown in Latin American Cities, flora of the high Andes and some paintings done by South American artists. (This feature provided by a local professor). George O. Latimer will speak on the unfolding of the future program of Bahá’u’lláh. Date not yet determined.
Wanden La Farge will give two talks in each Session on Fundamental Psychology needed in dealing with groups of people.
Two symposiums with four Bahá’í speakers will be held in a public hall in Colorado Springs. Dates have not yet been decided.
Each day a professor will give a lesson in the Spanish language. For this there will be a charge according to the number of pupils that attend.
For the Youth Session, Prof. Hayes of Salt Lake City University will speak on Practical Philosophy in teaching work.
During the Youth Session each attending member will be asked to prepare facts in regard to one country, for a talk from which notes can be taken. Also, our Bahá’í teachers from Latin America have sent in papers to be read.
The Pan American Union has made available literature and facts of vital importance for study.
There will be meditation followed by discussion with a special emphasis on clarifying points in the teaching that might be misunderstood by alien thought. (What to put forth and what to explain in detail. What will enable teachers to state the Bahá’í teachings in a manner clear, comprehensible and conclusive to Latin American minds).
The effort of the Committee during the first few years of the School is to invite teachers of the Cause and set a high standard that can be a model later when the school is open to students.
As accommodations are limited, attendance has been filled by two means: first, by invitation; and second, by application. This year, both Sessions with a capacity of 22 persons are filled.
During the formative period there has been no charge, but after the present Session the Committee will announce plans, prices and details for the coming year.
Teaching Conference In Georgia[edit]
Vogel Park, near Cleveland, Georgia, in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, will be the meeting place again this year for the Special Bahá’í Teaching Conference during the week of June 14-21.
This conference is really an enlarged fireside group. The program is not quite complete, but classes will be given by Mrs. Howard Colby Ives, Mrs. H. Emogene Hoagg, and Mrs. Terah C. Smith.
During the week-end of June 14-15 a Youth Program will be given under the direction of Miss Virginia Taylor and Miss Betty Shook. In addition, Vogel Park offers excellent swimming, boating, hiking, horseback riding, and fishing. Ample time will be given to Bahá’í fellowship, sports, and recreation.
All cottages face the beautiful lake, and are equipped with electricity, shower, fireplaces, fire wood, and are suitably furnished for housekeeping. Ice and milk are delivered daily. Each group of friends had better bring their own food, but short orders can be gotten there in the Park, and Walasayi Inn and Trading Post some three miles away serves meals.
Vogel Park is reached by U.S. Highway No. 19, the Appalachian Trail, which traverses the Park from Murphy, N.C., on the north, and from Dahlonega, Ga., on the south. Friends coming from Kentucky and Tennessee may find some gravel road between Chattanooga and Murphy, N.C., but the road is good.
Cottages rent for five dollars a week for each person, and reservations should be made through Nellie J. Roche, 703 Commerce Union Bank Bldg., Nashville, Tenn., as soon as possible.
Teaching by Local Assemblies[edit]
From time to time, striking, and effective teaching methods are developed by local Assemblies which should be made known to other Assemblies, and Bahá’í News this year plans to give all possible space to teaching reports and news.
From recent correspondence five different teaching plans worked out locally in different parts of the country are selected for brief mention at this time.
Richmond Highlands, Washington
This young Assembly has opened a “Bahá’í Fellowship House” (see illustration) which stands under towering trees on a highroad making for easy access. From a clipping from the Aurora Herald we quote:
“Work was started last week on the Bahá’í Fellowship House on the property of Mr. and Mrs. B. W. Schneider, 180th and Aurora. The
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Believers called for military service under the draft should have a copy of the special bulletin prepared by the National Spiritual Assembly under date of March, 1941. This bulletin enables the Bahá’í to fill out his questionnaire in accordance with the Bahá’í teachings and principles. Isolated believers can obtain a copy by writing the National Bahá’í Office. Extra copies will be sent to local Assemblies on request. |
building, 20 x 22, will include a meeting room and small kitchen. The Bahá’í meetings will be held every Wednesday evening and courses in Esperanto, Research and Comparative Religion will be offered.”
This preliminary notice was soon followed by an item, “Dedication of Home of Bahá’í Group is Told” . . . “Guests from Portland, Seattle, Chelan, Everett, Kirkland, Monroe and Richmond Beach were present.”
“Hilldore Jellsett, chairman of the local Assembly, introduced the speakers. Geo. Latimer, of Portland, was the principal speaker of the occasion, representing the National Assembly. Mark Tobey, of Seattle, followed the guests of other towns in speaking. Mrs. Schneider, of this Bahá’í Community, then formally dedicated the edifice. Her untiring efforts, assisted by local supporters, made the achievement of this undertaking a crown of glory to her and the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh in this section.”
Topeka
This Spiritual Assembly inaugurated the last Bahá’í year by the preparation of a very complete booklet combining its Bahá’í Directory with the Bahá’í calendar for the year. Of convenient pocket size, the booklet consisted of sixteen pages. Multigraphed on one side, all bound with the Temple postcard as front cover.
The first sheets listed the names, addresses and telephone numbers of the members of the community, followed by the names of the Assembly members with their offices, then the list of local Committees.
The successive sheets carried each one a calendar for one month, with the list of Bahá’í meetings.
Feasts, Anniversaries, Assembly meetings and other Bahá’í gatherings under the calendar.
The booklet thus provided each believer with the information needed for efficient participation in the local activities of the Faith.
Wilmette, Evanston, Winnetka
These three adjoining Assemblies of the Temple area set up an Inter-Assembly Committee with a budget and authority to carry out a combined teaching program. As worked out, the program included, first, a weekly study class for all North Shore believers; second, a printed bulletin issued to a special list of about one thousand persons in the three towns, giving informal news about Temple construction; third, a series of paid notices in the three local papers announcing public meetings; and fourth, a series of meetings, one in Evanston, one in Wilmette and one in Winnetka, with the dates of November 15, December 6 and January 22 respectively. These were held in Orrington School Auditorium, Evanston, in Temple Foundation Hall, Wilmette, and in Community House, Winnetka.
Teaneck
This Assembly issued a program announced as “A Comprehensive Series of Lectures on The Bahá’í Revelation,” covering subjects and speakers for a series of Sunday evening public meetings from October 6, 1940 to February 9, 1941, nineteen successive weeks. With the program was embodied an “Outline of Bahá’í History,” “Basic Bahá’í Teachings,” and a map and train schedule for the convenience of new friends.
This program appears unusually interesting in that its subject, planned as a unified whole, presented the seeker with a real opportunity to learn about the fundamental purposes and teachings of the Bahá’í Faith, yet each subject was also a unit in itself and therefore the visitor felt under no obligation to commit himself to the whole course.
A well conceived and attractive program of this type is the best kind of teaching material, because it impresses and also informs even those who for any reason do not attend the meetings.
Toronto
Another Assembly, which developed
a series of nineteen subjects last
year was Toronto. Among the subjects
listed were: New World Order
in Action, The Oneness of Mankind,[Page 11]
The Search for Truth, etc.
The impressive method adopted for conveying these subjects to the public consisted in a series of small mimeographed bulletins entitled “New World Order,” containing excerpts from the Bahá’í Writings, and each one also developing a separate subject in the form of a brief article by one of the friends.
This plan is well conceived whether intended to supplement public meetings or be a substitute for them. A good mailing list is an important asset for any Assembly, especially as there are now so many small Bahá’í leaflets, like the “Bahá’í Reprint” series, which can be used along with programs and announcements prepared locally.
We Cannot Take Sides[edit]
The following statement is reprinted from the January, 1941 issue of Bahá’í Quarterly published by the Bahá’ís of Australia and New Zealand, in accordance with the instruction cabled by the Guardian on April 19, 1941, as cited above.
A most important matter for Bahá’ís at this time, when world convulsions assume daily more destructive proportions and national hatreds are more bitterly fostered, is to get a clear vision, a balanced perspective of the attitude we should hold towards the situation. For some years the Guardian, through his messages and World Order letters (Goal of a New World Order, etc.) has been preparing us for just the conditions we are now experiencing. In clear and emphatic utterances he has been educating our minds and steering our thoughts into channels calculated to keep us clear of personal bias and inherited patriotisms. Our patriotism must be always to world citizenship, world brotherhood, and the lesser loyalties must be subordinated to this supreme loyalty. In these countries of the antipodes, where loyalty to Britain is stronger, perhaps, than in Britain itself, it requires real spiritual insight and understanding to be able to rise above our limited inherited loyalties and the clamor of conflict and see beyond it the inevitable and ordained outcome of organized peace and a reconstructed mankind.
We must see in the conflict a breaking down of old ideas and forms which no longer serve mankind,
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All local Assemblies, those first established this year and those re-elected, are requested to report their Assembly roll before the meeting of the National Assembly on May 29. At that meeting the National Assembly must adopt the list of local Assemblies duly recognized for the current Bahá’í year. Many Assemblies have already reported. Any Assembly not having a copy of the form to be filled out in order to report its election can obtain one from the National Bahá’í Office. |
but which are a distinct menace to his security, “antiquated barriers that seek to block humanity’s progress towards its destined goal.” It would be well to study again the “World Order” letters of Shoghi Effendi, and in the light of the tragic drama in which we are enmeshed, try to get a deeper insight and a surer ground of understanding of the “mystery unfolding so rapidly in this Day of God, when the nations and peoples are summoned before the high court of destiny to answer for their failure to attain peace.” We cannot take sides or assign blame to any particular nation. The causes leading up to the war are many and deep rooted.
Groups of nations leagued together against other groups can only result sooner or later in open conflict. Never can such methods result in peace. To Bahá’ís peace means the harmonious relationship of all peoples, through their governments, their educational systems, economic systems and other social agencies. Only a world outlook, one organized world order as set out in the Bahá’í Teachings, can establish and maintain peace in our time. Now is the supreme opportunity of every Bahá’í teacher to stress at all times this consummation as the sole remedy for the tragic plight the nations are experiencing at this moment of humanity’s history.
Political Entanglements
Attention is again directed to the Guardian’s repeated instructions concerning non-participation in political propaganda. Bahá’í teaching insists on the removal of barriers of class, nation and race; political parties represent the interests of certain sections of the community and their legislation are directed primarily to foster and enhance those interests. Bahá’ís cannot logically identify themselves with or support any brand of class legislation. Therefore party politics should be viewed as an anachronism. As far back as 1932 Shoghi Effendi wrote, “Let them retrain from associating themselves, whether by word or deed, with the political pursuits of their respective nations, with the policies of their governments and the schemes and programs of parties and factions. In such controversies they should assign no blame, take no side, further no design and identify themselves with no system prejudicial to the best interests of that World Fellowship which it is their aim to guard and foster. Let them affirm their unyielding determination to stand, firmly and unreservedly, for the way of Bahá’u’lláh, to avoid the entanglements and bickerings inseparable from the pursuit of the politician, and to become worthy agencies of that Divine Polity which incarnates God’s immutable purpose for all men. To enter the arena of party politics is surely detrimental to the best interests of the Faith and will harm the Cause.”
During election campaigns, when
party feeling runs high, it is essential
that all Bahá’ís, more especially
those who in the past have had strong
party leanings, should discipline
themselves and not be led by mass
emotion into controversies which
would belittle the world-wide scope
of the Cause with which they stand
identified. On September 24, 1938, the
following message was cabled by
Shoghi Effendi to the N. S. A. of
U. S. A. and Canada:—“Loyalty (to
the) World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, security
of its basic institutions, both
imperatively demand all its avowed
supporters . . . in these days when
sinister uncontrollable forces are
deepening (the) cleavage sundering
peoples, nations, creeds (and) classes,
(to) resolve, despite (the) pressure
(of) fast crystallizing public
opinion, (to) abstain individually and
collectively, in word (and) action,
informally as well as in all official
utterances and publications, from assigning
blame, taking sides, however
indirectly, in recurring political
crises now agitating (and) ultimately
[Page 12]
engulfing human society. Grave apprehension
lest cumulative effect
(of) such compromises (should) disintegrate
(the) fabric, clog (the)
channel of grace that sustains (the)
system of God’s essentially supranational,
supernatural order so laboriously
evolved, so recently established.”
The latest news from Haifa tells of the compulsory disbanding of Assemblies in Europe, Palestine and Irán, thereby, temporarily at least, crippling the Cause in those countries. We pray that our brothers and sisters in these lands may be sustained and strengthened in their time of trial and difficulty. It behooves us, therefore, to put forth a supreme effort to strengthen the foundations and build up the structure of the faith in these far-off regions, as yet comparatively untouched by drastic war measures, in preparation for the time when we shall be called upon to vindicate our faith and take our part in the establishment of the complete Administrative Order, the Commonwealth of Nations. To voice prejudiced opinions on either local, national or international policies will tend to retard the progress of the Cause. Divine justice will be served. Our plain duty is to work for the reconstructed world that is to be.
Bahá’í Fellowship House on property of Mr. and Mrs. B. W. Schneider, Richmond Highlands, Washington, dedicated November 10, 1940.
Enrollments and Transfers[edit]
Los Angeles, eleven and one youth. New York, seven. Portland, four. Chicago, two and three youths. Detroit, three and one youth. Montreal, four. Urbana, three. Lima, two, Cleveland, two. Grand Rapids, two. Flint, two. Washington, D.C., two. Jamestown, two. Boston, two. Waukegan, two. Teaneck, two. Toronto, one. Oakland, one. San Francisco, one. Kansas City, one. Springfield, Illinois, one. Oak Park, one. Beverly Hills, two. Vancouver, two. Columbus, one. Binghamton, one. Racine, one. Miami, one. Minneapolis, one. Philadelphia, one youth. Berkeley, one. Pasadena, one.
Isolated believers enrolled between March 3 and 31, twenty-one.
Bahá’í Calendar[edit]
Nineteen Day Feast: May 17, June 5, June 24.
Anniversaries: Declaration of the Báb, May 23; Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh, May 29 at three A.M.
Meeting of the National Spiritual Assembly: May 30, 31, June 1, at Wilmette.
Annual Souvenir of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, West Englewood: June 28.
Bahá’í School Sessions (to July 1): Green Acre, June 30 beginning courses by Dr. Genevieve L. Coy and Dr. Glenn A. Shook; Louhelen Ranch, first Youth Session begins June 29 with courses by Elsie Austin and Mrs. Virginia Camelon; International School, Temerity Ranch, Pine Valley, Colorado, Teachers’ Session, June 20 to June 30, Youth Session follows.
Teaching Conference for Southern Bahá’ís, Vogel Park, Georgia: June 14-21.
In Memoriam[edit]
I have made death a messenger of joy to thee; wherefore dost thou grieve?—Bahá’u’lláh
- Mrs. Margaret Mills Sprague,
New York.
- Mrs. Rowena Cotton, Sacramento.
- Mr. De Witt Wickham, Pentwater,
Michigan.
- Mrs. Katherine Fishback, Chicago.
- Mrs. Peter Eckert, Milwaukee
(not Mr. Peter Eckert as previously reported).
- Mrs. Mary E. Lane, Baltimore.
- Miss Augusta Bachmann, Baltimore.
- Miss Alma Albertson, Greenville,
Michigan.
- Mr. Charles Bonner, Peoria.
- Mrs. Emily Keeler, Lowell, Arizona.
- Dr. Nathan W. Collier, St. Augustine.
- Mrs. Anna Ketterer Foster, Chicago.
- Mrs. Emma Lundberg, Chicago.
- Mrs. Belle L‘Amourex, Binghamton.
- Mrs. Harriet Gibbs Marshall,
Washington, D.C.
