THE BULLETIN OF THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY
OF THE BAHA’IS OF THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA
Office of the Secretary
48 WEST 10th STREET, NEW YORK CITYTo the beloved of the Lord and the of the throughout the West.
Dear fellow-workers in the Divine Vineyard:
It will gladden and rejoice every one of you to learn that from various quarters there has of late reached the Holy Land tidings of fresh developments that are a clear indication of those hidden and transforming influences which, from the source of Baha’u’llah’s mystic strength, continue to flow with ever-increasing vitality into the heart of this troubled world.
Both in the wider field of its spiritual conquests, where its indomitable spirit is forging ahead, capturing the heights, pervading the multitude; as well as in the gradual consolidation of the administrative structure which its avowed followers the world over are laboring to raise and fortify, the Faith of Baha’u’llah, we can increasingly discern, bids fair to become that force which, though not as yet universally recognized, none can afford to belittle or ignore.
In the bold and repeated testimonies which Her Majesty, Queen Marie of Rumania, has chosen to give to the world,—a copy of whose latest pronouncement I enclose*—we truly recognize evidences of the irresistible power, the increasing vitality, the strange working of a Faith destined to regenerate the world. Her Majesty’s striking tribute paid to the illuminative power of the Teachings of Baha’u’llah and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá is bound to effect an entire transformation in the attitude of many to a Faith the tenets of which have often been misunderstood and sorely neglected. It will serve as a fresh stimulus to the enlightened and cultured to investigate with an open mind the verities of its message, the source of its life-giving principles.
From Baghdad, moreover, where the sacred habitation of Baha’u’llah has been violated by a relentless enemy and converted into a rallying center for the corrupt, the perverse, and the fanatical, there comes the news, highly reassuring to us all, of the satisfactory progress of the negotiations which, we are informed on high authority, will soon lead to the expropriation of the property by the State, culminating in the fullness of time in its occupation by the triumphant followers of God's holy Faith. The case of the houses, so ably presented, so persistently pursued, above all reinforced by the vigilant and protecting power of our departed Master, will eventually triumph, and by its repercussions in Persia as in the world at large, will lend a powerful impetus to the liberation of those forces which will carry the Cause to its ultimate destiny. I will, when the occasion presents itself, inform the believers through their respective National Spiritual Assemblies to address messages of appreciation and gratitude to the Authorities concerned in view of their unrelaxing efforts for the triumph of Right and Justice.
For the present, we cannot but rejoice and feel profoundly thankful as we witness in so many directions the welcome signs of the gradual emancipation of the struggling Faith of Baha’u’llah, of the increasing recognition on the part of both the high and lowly of its universal principles—all so rich in their promise of ultimate victory.
- Your true brother,
- SHOGHI.
Haifa, Palestine October 29, 1926
- This enclosure consisted of a copy of an article by Queen Marie in her newspaper syndicated series entitled "Queen's Counsel." Since the Queen's first public references to the Cause in this series last May, two additional references have appeared, one on September 20 and one on September 27, 1926.
CORRESPONDENCE WITH THE GUARDIAN[edit]
A circular letter issued by the Spiritual Assembly of Haifa, through Badi Bushrui, secretary, contains the following reference to the subject of correspondence with Shoghi Effendi.
"The Cause is fast advancing, new centers are being established, introduction of more system and organization is indispensable, events of great consequence transpire, all calling for the concentrated attention of the beloved Guardian. Under such circumstances it is evident that we should strain every nerve to lighten the burden of correspondence which is increasingly pouring in from different parts of the world. The idea seems, however, to be taking root with some of the friends that individual correspondence with Shoghi Effendi should be discontinued under all circumstances; which is quite a wrong interpretation of the case. The Guardian of the Cause is the head of the Baha’i Movement and as such directing our activities in the direction of the ideals of the Cause: every individual Baha’i has the sacred right and the supreme obligation to correspond with him if, after mature reflection, he feels prompted to do so.
“Shoghi Effendi wishes me to inform the beloved friends that if, at any time, any of the friends feels that it is necessary, in the interest of the Cause, to correspond with him about any matter, he should do so without the slightest hesitation, and his letters will be gladly and promptly considered.”
This announcement was undoubtedly the result of the resolution passed by the last National Convention of the Baha’is of the United States and Canada, which however did not express the delegates as desiring to advise individuals not to write the Guardian, but rather aimed to bring home to all American believers the thought that we should refrain from giving utterance to personal complains which ought to be removed through local or national consultation.
POLICY AND SCOPE OF BAHA’I NEWS LETTER[edit]
[Page 2]
Editorial
|
of the Baha’is of the United States and Canada
48 West 10th Street, New York City Office of the Treasurer 1821 Lincoln Street Evanston, Ill. |
With this issue, the American National Spiritual Assembly has endeavored to enlarge the policy and scope of the BAHA’I NEWS LETTER so as to prepare the way for a fuller response to the hopes and advices of Shoghi Effendi respecting this publication.
On April 10th, 1925, the Guardian wrote the National Assembly as follows: “The NEWS LETTER which you have lately initiated fulfills a very vital function and has been started admirably well. I would urge you to enlarge its scope, as much as your resources permit, that in time it may devote a special section to every phase of activities, administrative, devotional, humanitarian, financial, educational and otherwise. That it may attain its object it must combine the essential qualities of accuracy, reliability, thoroughness, dignity and wisdom. It should become a great factor in promoting understanding, providing information on Baha’i activity, both local and foreign, in stimulating interest, in combating evil influences, and in upholding and safeguarding the institutions of the Cause. It should be made as representative as possible, should be replete with news, up-to-date in its information, and should arouse the keenest interest among believers and admirers alike in every corner of the globe. I cherish great hopes for its immediate future, and I trust you will devote your special attention to its development, and by devising well-conceived and world-wide measures transform this NEWS LETTER into what I hope will become the foremost Baha’i Journal of the world.”
In accordance with these significant statements, the NEWS LETTER now assumes more of the appearance and function of a newspaper, and less of a letter written by the National Spiritual Assembly to the American Baha’is. The friends will appreciate how far short of the ideal the NEWS LETTER still falls, but every effort will be made to give it at least the character of a Baha’i journal aiming to reflect the activities and developments of the Cause in all lands. In place of those letters previously written by the National Spiritual Assembly endeavoring to acquaint the American believers with the current aims of the administrative body, and emphasize the part that each local Assembly should play in attaining the administrative perfection established as our goal by the Guardian, we shall henceforth publish the communications received from Shoghi Effendi, and confine any matters localized to the United States and Canada to brief special articles or editorial announcements.
While a journal printed in any one language cannot hope at present to possess a truly international appeal, nevertheless we feel sure that one member at least of each foreign Assembly is sufficiently acquainted with English to share the more important contents of the NEWS LETTER with his or her fellow-believers. We cordially invite a resume of local Baha’i activities from Assemblies throughout the world, and especially from the various National bodies. Our intention will ever be to select such news as seems most generally important, irrespective of the locality where the event takes place. Local secretaries are reminded once more that they should distribute copies among all recognized believers in their community, that all may march inward together with the general progress of the Cause. In the case of foreign Assemblies, the number of copies sent will be in accordance with the secretary's specific request. Up to the present time, the cost of printing and distributing the NEWS LETTER has been assumed by the American National Spiritual Assembly from its Baha’i Fund, and no change in this is contemplated at the present time.
This enlargement of policy and scope coincides, we feel, with the new era of public Baha’i achievement acclaimed so forcefully by the Guardian in each of the three letters published in the present issue. Any comment on their contents would but weaken the direct message of spiritual victory from Haifa which we are all now privileged to receive. May we, individually and collectively, be worthy to render effective service in a Cause whose dynamic and reinforcement so transcends the purpose and capacity of even the greatest of existing social institutions, and the comprehension of even the most ardently seeking minds! Those long years during which the Baha’is were drawn together into one worldwide body seem indeed to be fulfilled; the effort now can surely be in the direction of public influence, expansion rather than solely consolidation, bursting of the seed to reveal the mighty Tree of Life rather than mere resistance to outside forces and influences, mutual inspiration for larger initiative rather than repression and anxious dread for the security of the Cause. The day of visible confirmation has dawned for every sincere and devotedly working Baha’i.
The beloved of the Lord and the handmaids of the Merciful throughout the United States and Canada.
Dearly-beloved friends:
The progress of various events, both within and outside the Baha’i world, as well as the perusal of the able and illuminating report recently submitted by the Committee of the Persian National Spiritual Assembly in charge of the Tarbiyat School in Tihran, have served to reinforce a gradually growing idea as to the desirability of arranging for the settlement in the capital of that country of one or two American believers who, having the means, the freedom and the capacity, can adequately meet the pressing requirements of a responsible position. Judging from their report, the situation in Tihran though much confused and perplexing, is fraught with rich possibilities for the future of the Cause, both as affecting the national fortunes of Persia, as well as its influence upon the international development of the Cause.
The situation as I see it calls for the efforts of one or two capable workers who, untrammeled and with independent means, can quietly, tenaciously and tactfully, pursue over a considerable length of time the meritorious work of fostering the cause of Baha’i education, for both boys and girls, in the swiftly changing capital of a promising country. It should be their primary duty to extend the scope and enhance the prestige of these twin Baha’i educational institutions, and to initiate by sound and well-considered methods such measures as will consolidate the work already achieved. It would be highly gratifying if they could also endeavor, by keeping in close and constant touch with the Persian and American National Spiritual Assemblies,[Page 3]
to fortify those vital bonds that spiritually unite the cradle of the Faith with the great American Republic—foremost standard-bearer of the Cause in the Western field. Such efforts will extremely facilitate cooperation between these two countries, whose common destiny is to provide, each in its own typical manner, the essential elements in the foundation of the world order ushered in by Baha’u’llah.
The gradual expansion of foreign as well as officially-subsidized educational schools in Tihran, the prolonged absence of competent teachers and organizers that can revive the declining influence of a hitherto renowned Baha’i educational institution, and the critical and vigilant attitude which the growing influence of the Cause has induced in its malignant and envious enemies, are today subjects of gravest concern to the elected representatives of our suffering brethren and sisters in Persia. I would therefore request those who feel the urge and have the means to undertake this task to communicate with the National Spiritual Assembly who, after mature deliberation, will select one or two who, in their judgment, can best render this service, and decide upon the exact time and manner which would be most suitable for its execution. I would strongly urge the friends to consult most earnestly with that devoted, experienced and indefatigable handmaid of Baha’u’llah, Dr. Moody, whose past services have ennobled the record of the collaboration of East and West for the furtherance of the Cause of Baha’u’llah. It would he highly satisfactory and immensely helpful if our beloved sister could find it possible and convenient to accompany such a carefully-chosen person on the way to Tihran, and, by her unrivaled experience and loving kindness, assist personally in the fulfillment of this pressing need.
Whoever steps into this field will find, as he settles down to his work, that the environment is extremely disheartening, that restrictions are oppressive, that the amenities of social life are lacking, that the forces of opposition are determined and organized. But let him realize also that, however tedious and exacting his labors, however precarious and thankless his task, the pioneer services it is his unique privilege to render in this time of stress will forever live in the annals of God’s living Faith, and will prove a source of inspiration to the countless workers who, in happier times and with better means at their disposal, will consummate the spiritual regeneration and material rehabilitation of Baha’u’llah’s native land.
- Your true brother,
- Shoghi.
- Your true brother,
- Haifa, Palestine,
- November 14, 1926.
To the members of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of the United States and Canada.
Dearly-beloved fellow-workers:
I have on two recent occasions given expression to the profound sense of inspiring confidence and joyous gratitude which recent happenings in the Cause—evident manifestations of the steady evolution of a living Faith—must needs evoke in the heart of every thoughtful and observing believer. And as I contemplate the far-reaching possibilities involved in a careful handling of those forces which Baha’u’llah’s almighty arm has now released, I cannot help reflecting upon the dominant share which the American friends, at home as well as in distant lands, have contributed to this rejuvenation of the Cause of God, and the decisive part it is theirs to play in its eventual victory.
Your letters, dated June 17, July 11, July 20, August 16 and 3, and October 2, 1926, all of which have been forwarded during my days of retirement and rest, have proved an added source of thankfulness, of joy and strength to me. They have clearly revealed by their spirit, as well as by the nature and variety of their contents, the sustained devotion, the unabated confidence, and the increasing vigor and efficiency with which you are initiating, coordinating, and consolidating the manifold activities of the Cause in North America.
The range and character of the problems confronting you, as revealed by the careful perusal of the minutes of your meetings, the steady increase in the number and effectiveness of vigorously-functioning Centers in Central and Northern Europe, and the growing significance and complexity of the work that has to be necessarily conducted from the Holy Land, have all served to strengthen the feeling of absolute necessity for the formation in Haifa of some sort of an International Baha’i Secretariat, which both in an advisory and executive capacity will have to aid and assist me in my vast and exacting labors. I have anxiously considered this important matter in all its bearings during the past few months, and have accordingly requested three well-informed, capable representatives from America, Europe and the East to visit the Holy Land this fall, that we may lay down the foundation of this vitally needed institution. We shall take counsel together and decide, not only upon the measures that have to be promptly undertaken to meet the pressing demands of the present hour, but upon the wider issues that on one hand will strengthen the ties that should bind the International Center of the Cause with the world at large, and on the other provide for the preliminary steps that will eventually lead to the proper establishment of the First International House of Justice.
It is my earnest hope and prayer that this exchange of thought and close cooperation in the work that has henceforth to be internationally and vigorously conducted, will enable me to participate more minutely and effectively in the labors of the various administrative departments of your Assembly, and thus reinforce the splendid efforts you are exerting for the extension of its influence and the widening of its scope.
From the report of the National Treasurer, setting forth the account of the progress of the contributions of the American Believers for the support of the Plan of Unified Action, up to June 30, 1926, I gather that the result has by no means exceeded our expectations, nay has considerably fallen below what I confidently expected it to achieve. I earnestly renew my plea and appeal to you, and through you to every true and faithful lover of ’Abdu’l-Bahá, to realize, while there is yet time, the far-reaching possibilities with which the present situation is fraught. I am firmly convinced that this Plan combines, embodies, and serves the two-fold purpose of the present-day Baha’i administration in the United States and Canada, namely the promotion of the vitally needed Teaching work, and the provision of the gradual completion of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkar, both wishes so near and dear to our beloved Master's heart. It is the only effective, feasible, and practical instrument placed in our hands for the speedy accomplishment of our ends. So much that is vital to the future welfare, the effectiveness, and the fair name of our beloved Cause depends, I assure you, upon the success or failure of this nobly-conceived, this sound and befitting enterprise. The eyes of all Baha’is and of many sympathizers throughout the world are turned towards you, eager to reinforce your accomplishments in this field, expectant to witness what measure of success you are capable of achieving.
In connection with the series of world unity Conferences which you have initiated and so laboriously organized, I feel that in order to reap the fullest advantage and benefit from this laudable effort, it is absolutely essential[Page 4]
to follow up with the aid of enlightened, experienced and capable teachers the interest which has been aroused. Such a group of teachers should judiciously select those few among the many interested, and endeavor with patience and sympathy and by constant intimate personal intercourse, to prepare them gradually for the entire and unreserved acceptance of the fundamentals of the Baha’i Revelation. If the results be meagre, if the attendance be small, let us not despair, nor relax in our efforts. Let us remember that this sound method will eventually triumph, if we only consistently support it, and persevere in undertaking those subsequent steps that can alone produce full and permanent benefit.
I have already expressed my grateful appreciation of the prompt and wise measures you have taken in behalf of our oppressed and downtrodden brethren in Persia. The noble appeal which you were moved to address to His Majesty the Shah, so illuminating, so courteous, so powerful, and the wide range of publicity you have undertaken, were truly providential in character, and will undoubtedly prove an inspiration and solace to those who still continue to be trampled under the heel of an odious and inveterate enemy. I have had your appeal translated into Persian and sent to all Centers throughout the Orient that the suffering in Persia may learn of your bold and courageous intervention, and witness the signs of their promised redemption which, as foretold by ’Abdu’l-Bahá, must first be made manifest through the efforts of their brethren in that great freedom-loving Republic of the West.
It is sad and distressing to reflect that, notwithstanding the repeated appeals addressed to the Authorities concerned, and so powerfully reinforced by the spontaneous action of some of the leading Governments of the West, Persia, still heedless and unaware of the spiritual forces that are at work, continues to treat with indifference and contempt the most loyal, innocent and law-abiding subjects of its realm. This chronic instability of its affairs, the changing fortunes of factions and shadowy personalities that sap its vitality and tarnish its name, the acute and widespread economic depression that is now prevailing, and the grave discontent of the masses of the people, all tend to aggravate a situation already highly threatening to the security of its sorely tried children. What else can we do but pray most fervently that the almighty power of Baha’u’llah may soon triumph over this petty strife, this age-long tyranny, and make, as He prophesied, of the land of His birth, "the most honored of all governments, the pride, the admiration and the envy of the peoples of the world."
- Your true brother,
- SHOGHI.
- Your true brother,
- Haifa, Palestine,
- October 31, 1926.
NEW PUBLICATIONS[edit]
The Publishing Committee announces the following additions to its list of Baha’i publications: a new edition of Dr. Esslemont's "Baha’u’llah and the Era" in paper covers, at 60 cents (the covers are stronger and more attractive than the previous binding); copies of the Greatest Name on heavy cards measuring about seven by ten inches, suitable for framing, at 10 cents, these having been printed from a plate kindly donated by Mr. Charles Mason Remey; and a Compilation on Education prepared by Children's Educational Work Committee and originally published in mimeographed form in April, 1923, at 35 cents. The stencils for this were generously donated by Mrs. Harlan Ober.
Is necessary to explain that the Baha’i Year Book, expected from the press early in October, was unfortunately delayed in process of printing and binding, and did not appear until the last week in December. The Publishing Committee was in nowise responsible for this delay, and at present is sending out copies to those who have already ordered. Assemblies in all parts of the world are asked to cooperate in selling copies of this international Baha’i publication to believers and also friends of the Cause. The price is $1.00.
Address orders for all Baha’i literature in English to: Baha’i Publishing Committee, P. O. Box 348, Grand Central Station, New York, N. Y.
AMERICAN BAHA’IS STRIVE TO RELIEVE CRUELTIES IMPOSED UPON PERSIAN BELIEVERS[edit]
The American National Assembly has recently reported to the Guardian concerning the efforts made by the friends throughout the United States and Canada to respond to his appeal, cabled April last, that we assist in bringing an end to the outrages still practiced upon Baha’is in Persia.
The cooperation of the local Assemblies and groups was requested to secure publicity for our action in writing the Shah on July 12th. Up to the present time, clippings have been received which show that the story of the persecutions was published in the following newspapers: New York Times, August 9; Philadelphia Tribune, August 14; Philadelphia Record August 9; Philadelphia Public Ledger, August 9; Philadelphia Inquirer, August 15; Spokane Spokesman-Review, August 22; St. Paul Pioneer Press, August 11; St. Paul Dispatch, August 9; Berkeley, Calif., Gazette, August 9; Norwich, Conn. Evening Record, August 2; Norwich, Conn. Bulletin, July 31; Brooklyn Eagle, August 8; Riverside, Calif., Press, August 13; Rivertion, N. J., New Era, August 12; Racine Journal-News, August 10; Mooreston, N. J., News, August 11; Bergen, N. J., Evening Record, August 9; Waterbury, Conn., Herald, August 8; Visalia, Calif., Morning Delta, August 19; Palmyra, N. J., News, August 12; Kenosha Evening News, August 12; Omaha Evening News, August 12; Omaha Evening World-Herald, August 24; Washington, D. C., Evening Star, August 9; Portsmouth, N. H., Herald, July 26; Honolulu Advertiser, August 20; Boston Post, July 26; Fernandina, Fla., Nassou County Leader, October 1; Duluth Herald, September 1; New Haven Union, July 8; New Haven Evening Register, July 8; New Haven Times Leader, August 9; New Haven Sunday Register, August 8; New Haven Journal Courier, July 12 and August 9; San Francisco Examiner, December 12. The most remarkable article was that appearing in the San Francisco Examiner. It was written by Nadia Lavrova of the editorial staff, and presented the entire situation most vividly and effectively. The appearance of such an article is proof that some member or members of the local Baha’i group have been able to render a distinctive service to the Cause.
So impressed were the members of the National Spiritual Assembly with this article that one hundred copies were immediately ordered, and one copy will be sent to each local secretary in the United States and Canada, as evidence of what can be accomplished when publicity efforts are rightly directed. It is hoped that the friends can secure similar articles, when they can show the local editor what such a powerful paper in another city has already published.
Since the National Assembly sent the original publicity direct to some four hundred papers, it is probable that many more published the news than would appear from the list of clippings given above.[Page 5]
In addition to this effort, the National Assembly also sent copies of the letter written to the Shah to every member of the United States Government at Washington, the British Foreign Office, the League of Nations, members of the Persian Cabinet, and to about 1000 leading individuals, organizations and libraries in America.
WORLD UNITY CONFERENCES IN CLEVELAND AND BOSTON[edit]
The sixth and seventh in the series of World Unity Conferences have been held since the publication of the November NEWS LETTER.
The Cleveland Conferences were held in the Women's City Club and the Chapel of Western Reserve University. The program follows: Friday, November 26th, Address, "Truce or Peace?" by Dr. Dilworth Lupton of First Unitarian Church. Address, "The Religious Basis of World Unity,” by Dr. Joel Haydon, Fairmount Presbyterian Church. Horace Holley, chairman. Saturday, November 27th, Address, “Scientific and Religious Tendencies Toward World Unity,” by Prof. Adolphus Miller of Ohio State University. Address, "The New Spirit Making for World Unity," by Dr. John Herman Randall of the Community Church of New York. Judge George S. Addams, chairman. Sunday, November 28th. Address, "The One and the Many,” by Rabbi Hillel Silver of The Temple. Address, “The Coming World Religion,” by Dr. Randall. Mirza Ali-Kuli Khan, N. D., chairman.
Most gratifying to the friends present were the tributes paid to the Cause by Judge Addams, Professor Miller (who visited Shoghi Effendi at Haifa last spring) and Rabbi Silver, who had met ’Abdu’l-Bahá in Cleveland during 1912. Information has come since these Conferences that nearly one hundred new inquirers have attended the series of follow-up meetings held by the Cleveland Assembly with Mr. Albert Vail as teacher.
The Boston program. Saturday, December 11th, at Steinert Hall. Address, “Science and Religion: Are They Friends or Enemies?" by Professor Kirtley F. Mather of Harvard University. Address, "The Next Steps Forward in Religion," by Dr. John Herman Randall of New York. Mr. Allen McDaniel, chairman. Sunday, December 12th, at Second Unitarian Church. Address, "The Great Religions and the Universal Religion," by Professor William E. Hocking of Harvard University. Address, “The Oneness of All Religions," by Mr. Alfred W. Martin of the Society for Ethical Culture, New York. Rev. Eugene R. Shippen, chairman. Monday, December 13th, at Church of the Redemption. Address, “Because We Are One," by Rabbi Harry Levi of Temple Israel. Dr. Agustus Thomas, State Commissioner of Education, Augusta, Maine, had arranged to speak next on "The Integration of Education for World Unity,” but at the last moment found himself unable to attend. Mr. W. H. Randall as chairman took this opportunity to present the Bahá’ís principles as the foundation of world unity, and deeply impressed the splendid audience present.
As these Conferences develop, it is possible to realize them in a larger and clearer light. A statement published by the Boston Transcript on December 11th presents the matter in the exact language prepared by the Conference Committee. This is reprinted in part for the information of the friends, particularly those living in cities where future sessions of the Conferences are to be held. “A number of well known men, leaders in their respective fields, are publicly upholding the ideal of world unity as speakers at the World Unity Conferences which open in this city tonight. The phrase ‘world unity’ is still so comparatively new that it probably summons up a quite different thought in every mind that considers it. Whether we regard world unity as a feasible program or a remote, unattainable ideal, the fact that prominent scientists, educators and statesmen, as well as representative Christians, Jews and followers of other faiths are willing to participate in a public meeting devoted to this object is a significant indication of the new trend. . . .
“It is world as a deeper understanding and stronger spirit of cooperation between people themselves, quite apart from their present political, economic or religious affiliations, however, which is the ideal promoted by the World Unity Conferences. This view considers that it is essential to arise above all partisan questions and appeal direct to the latent humanity obscured in the hearts of men. To achieve this result, the first beginning has been made by establishing a platform independent of any existing social organism, and thus capable of giving equal respect to the ideals and principles of all. Probably no more universal public forum exists in this country today than the World Unity Conferences supply, since they offer the same hospitality to Jew and Moslem as to Christian, and to scientist and philosopher as to religionist, while the black races have also fond on this platform a place not inferior to that accorded the white, The selection of speakers, however, does a strict standard of suitability, in that each speaker must represent some approval to the problem of world unity.”
During January, sessions will be held in Dayton, Ohio, Chicago, and Illinois.
REVISIONS IN LIST OF AMERICAN SECRETARIES[edit]
Local secretaries are requested to make the following corrections on the American Baha’i address list recently sent to all Assemblies of the World: Mr. Joseph Bray, San Francisco, should be 500 Howard Street; Mr. W. E. Warner, Lansing, Mich., should be Route 5, Williamston, Mich.; Mr. Louis J. Voelz, Kenosha, should be 6108 Sheridan Rd.; Mr. Carl Hannen, Milwaukee, should be 268 Lake Bluff Blvd.; Dr. W. B. Guy, St. Augustine, should be 101 Bridge Street; Mrs. Elisha Fales, Dayton, should be 27 Grafton Avenue. Addresses wanted for Miss Ruth Bretz and Mrs. Nathan Schrieber.
It should be unnecessary to point out that local secretaries should have their correct address for Baha’i correspondence on file with the national secretary at all times. To obviate the difficulties which attend the use of personal addresses for Assembly correspondence, we urge all local Assemblies and groups to rent a permanent P.O. Box which will not be affected by the results of annual elections.
NEWS LETTERS OF OTHER COUNTRIES[edit]
The Baha’i body has been greatly strengthened during the past months by the development of several News Letters in different countries, each capable of conveying over at wide area invaluable news of the Cause. Among these are: Baha’i News Letter published by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of India and Burma in the English language; The Herald of the South, published by the Baha’is of Australia and New Zealand; La Noca Tago, an international Baha’i journal in Esperanto; Baha’i-Nachriciden, the bulletin of the German National Spiritual Assembly, and Le Messager Baha’i de Genéve, published by Mrs. Stannard at the International 'Baha’i Bureau, Geneva, Switzerland.
Endeavor will be made to reprint in these pages the most important news issued in these various publications, but lack of space prevents us from [Page 6]
using much interesting and valuable material. The American National Spiritual will gladly distribute copies of all foreign Baha’i publications sent to us for this purpose. One hundred copies are sufficient to supply one copy to each local American Baha’i group and also enable us t0 include those required for the Archives, special lists, etc. At present we are receiving one hundred copies of La Nova Tago and Le Messager Baha’i regularly, and these are very much appreciated by the American friends.
MAGAZINE STORY MENTIONS BAHA’I PERSECUTIONS[edit]
At a time when the believers were most deeply concerned with the sufferings of the Persian Baha’is, it seemed providential that a magazine of the high standing of the Atlantic Monthly should publish a short story actually featuring a case of Baha’i persecution in Persia. This story is entitled “The Governor,” by A. Cecil Edwards, and appeared in the Atlantic for September, 1926.
MRS. KATE IVES APPOINTED HISTORIAN OF GREEN ACRE[edit]
The friends of Green Acre will be happy to know that the National Assembly urgently requested Mrs. Kate Ives, associated with the work of Green Acre since the earliest days, to write the official history of Green Acre from the valuable collection of records in her possession, as well as her personal knowledge of the important facts and events and her deep awareness of all that Green Acre means and will become. All those who have any authentic records of Green Acre are asked to place these at Mrs. Ives’ disposal for use in the preparation of her history. It is probable that all this important material will one day become organized as an Archives for inspection by visitors at Green Acre.
Meanwhile, as this detailed and official history represents the labor of several years, Mr. W. H. Randall and Mr. Alfred E. Lunt, with the assistance of Mrs. Ives, have been requested to prepare a report outlining the more important steps in the evolution of Green Acre from the days of Miss Farmer to the point where it was merged into the Baha’i Cause. It is hoped that this report can be published and distributed among all American believers before the next Convention, that all may realize what tremendous efforts were put forth during many years to obey the advices and instructions of ’Abdu’l-Baha.
NEW YORK ASSEMBLY OPENS NEW HEADQUARTERS[edit]
On October first the New York Assembly moved from the Fisk building, West 57th Street, to a larger and more convenient center at 116 West 49th street, where rooms have been taken on a five year lease. Coincident with this improvement in their facilities, the New York have begun a teaching program perhaps more ambitious and far-reaching than any local activities undertaken in this up to the present time.
Encouraged by the remarkable success of the special teaching campaign carried out by Mrs. Keith Ransom-Kehler among the group of inquirers gathered together last spring by Mrs. Orcella Rexford, and assured of foundation of true unity throughout the local Baha’i body, the New York Spiritual Assembly's teaching committee prepared a detailed schedule of speakers and subjects covering the period October 3, 1926, to May 29, 1927, and this has been published in a 16-page booklet serving as a complete Baha’i calendar for use by the local believers. This program includes meetings which give a progressive presentation of the Baha’i Cause, a public forum with invited speakers, and meetings addressed by leaders of various liberal and humanitarian movements reflecting the Baha’i principles. The interest in these meetings has been so great that the new headquarters will soon be outgrown.
BAHAI LIBRARY ESTABLISHED IN OAKLAND[edit]
On October 16th, the fourteenth anniversary of the Feast held by ’Abdu’l-Baha in the Oakland home of Mrs. Goodall, the Baha’is of Oakland went to dedicate a library occupying the third floor of a building very centrally located. The occasion was one of great rejoicing, in that the Assembly had grown to the strength where a public meeting place became possible and necessary. A printed program of weekly public meetings held in the new Oakland center announces addresses by Leroy C. Ioas, Ella G. Cooper, Laurol Luther and Agnes Alexander, who has recently moved from Honolulu to Berkeley.
SMALL BAHA'I GROUP FINDS NEW TEACHING METHOD[edit]
A step taken recently by two believers of Dayton, Ohio in the direction of larger public influence and wider contact will be extremely interesting to other devoted Baha’is similarly situated who have often longed for some method of serving the Cause. These two friends have taken a large, well appointed home the ground floor of which is being rented out as meeting place to several local groups and organizations of a universal nature hitherto cancelled to hold their weekly meetings in the sympathetic atmosphere of the usual office building or public hall. Each tenant organization has its own evening in the Baha’i home, known as “Peace Center,” but one evening a month all the organizations gather together in a general meeting at which the effort is made to find their points of mutual agreement and contact. All are likewise cooperating in building up a general reference library to be placed at the disposition of seekers.
The value of this method consists in the fact that the very effort to discover their common basis of faith and agreement must, in time, bring them into the one Cause capable of unifying the whole world. Like Archimedes of old, the two Dayton believers have sought a powerful enough to move a world, and the sympathy and insight making this plan possible is surely that lever. They are striving to produce Baha’is in fact rather than merely in name, and the further advantage of this plan is that it is being applied to people of capacity–people who have already been trained to serve at least one universal principle. When the heart has been taught, the mind will soon learn to follow!
“OUR MOST IMPORTANT WORK”[edit]
The general circular letter of the Akron Assembly dated October 14th reveals another teaching method equally effected but rather adapted for use by Assemblies with established meetings and capable teachers.
To quote: “We believe our most important work of the moment is to completing a series of circular letters to more than a thousand Akron citizens to acquaint them with our principles. It is our endeavor to attract these people to our basic principles and to urge them in each letter of the series to attend any of our weekly meetings for further enlightenment.”
That these letters are fruitful of results and attested by two members of the National Assembly who had the privilege of attending the meeting in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Russell L. Brooker during November. The spiritual hospitality so beautifully displayed at this meeting, and the radiance of all the local believers in attendance, [Page 7]
obviously produced a deep and lasting impression on the number of seekers who had come in response to the series of letters.
MEMORIAL TO THORNTON CHASE[edit]
Mr. W. P. Hatch, 3440 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, has been requested to serve as a committee of one to collect data on the life and Baha’i activities of Mr. Thornton Chase, the renowned soul whose capacity and tireless efforts laid the foundation on which rests the Baha’i Cause in America. All those associated with Chase are urged to assist Mr. Hatch in this valuable service. When all possible material has been gathered together, it should be a great blessing for the American believers to perpetuate this in some suitable form as a Thornton Chase Memorial.
CIRCULAR LETTERS FROM FOREIGN ASSEMBLIES[edit]
The American friends are deeply appreciative of the many letters received during recent months from Bahá’í Assemblies in various countries of the world. We gratefully acknowledge communications from the following centers: Tihran, Meshed, Kashan, Irak, Resht. Kermanshah, Kazvin and Hamadan, Persia; Bagdad and Awashih, Iraq; Baku and Ishkabad, Russia: Alexandretta, Alexandria, Beirut, Port Said and Haifa, the Near East; Constantinople, Turkey; Bombay and Delhi, India; Rangoon, Burma; Shanghai, China; Adelaide, South Australia; Auckland, New Zealand; Cebu, Philippine Islands; Bahia, Brazil: London, England; Paris, France; Geneva, Switzerland; Hamburg and Esslingen, Germany.
A suggestion put forth by many Assemblies in their correspondence deserves special consideration–namely that all travelling Bahá’ís, particularly those who go outside their own country, bear with them a letter of introduction duty signed by an officer of their local or national Spiritual Assembly. This simple precaution will contribute greatly to the traveler's own capacity to serve the Cause, and moreover will tend to save the friends from any abuse of hospitality or confidence.
In reading the general letters from Persia and the Near East, one is impressed by the great efforts being made to educate girls and women, by the widespread interest shown in Esperanto, and also by the well-nigh overwhelming obstacles which still resist even the simplest efforts to create material and visible expressions of the Teachings.
NEWS LETTERS OF INDIA AND BURMA[edit]
Nos. 1 and 2 of the Bahá’í News Letter issued by the National Spiritual Assembly of India and Burma, at Delhi, have been received. If later numbers of this important Bahá’í periodical have been published, we hope that copies will be sent the American National Assembly. This News Letter is edited by Hishmatullah, secretary, and brings the believers of the West more closely in contact with activities throughout Asia. It is published from the newly established central office of the National Assembly, Chandni Chowk, the principal street of the Imperial city of Delhi.
An item of unusual interest refers to the presentation of thirty-eight Baha'i Books in English and Persian to the Library of the Muslim University at Aligarh. On Durbar Day, Molvi Mahfoozu'l Haq distributed 1500 pamphlets to those attending the annual exhibition. The College at Karachi which numbered our brother the late Prof. Shirazi among its graduates has announced the intention of founding a special Scholarship in honor of Prof. Shirazi's memory. In NEWS LETTER No. 2 appears a notable analysis of how the thoroughly trained Bahá’í teacher gradually enlists the interest and confidence of an inquirer by developing his approach so as to appeal successively to the qualities of curiosity, desire, interest, decision, conviction and finally action.
IN MEMORIAM[edit]
Within a few brief days of learning of the passing of Mrs. Mary MacNutt in Miami, Florida, a telegram sent by friends of the family stated that Howard MacNutt had been mortally injured, and the prayers of the friends were urgently besought. This appeal was at once transmitted to the Bahá’ís of Brooklyn, New York City, West Englewood, Yonkers, Philadelphia, Washington, D. C., Orange and Boston.
Mr. and Mrs. MacNutt have stood in the forefront as faithful servants of the Cause in the United States for many years. Their record of a pilgrimage to Acca, their hospitality extended to the believers in the Brooklyn home blessed by ’Abdu’l-Bahá, their numerous extended teaching trips to Florida in the South and to California in the west, their presence and activity at Green Acre last summer in connection with the founding of the School of World Unity, Mr. MacNutt's editing of "The Promulgation of Universal Peace", and the heights he has attained as an orator aflame with the Bahá’í spirit, all combined as influences which have established them forever in the hearts of the believers and the records of the Cause. This loss is irreparable.
DISTINGUISHED PERSIAN BAHA’IS VISIT AMERICA[edit]
During November Mirza Maqami and Mirza Benan arrived at New York City on their way to Philadelphia where they have exhibits at the Sesqui Centennial Exposition. They were preceded by a cablegram from Shoghi Effendi announcing their coming and requesting the National Assembly to consult with them. Their plans at present include a stay of six months in the United States, and they hope to travel as far as California, visiting as many of the local Assemblies as possible en route. These experienced and devoted Bahá’í souls bring the great inspiration of the Cause in Persia with them; such visits create new and lasting ties of unity between the believers of the two lands.
IMPORTANCE OF LEARNING PERSIAN[edit]
The letter from the Guardian reprinted in this issue, calling for American workers to go to Persia, reminds us vividly of the great importance attributed by ’Abdu’l-Bahá on so many occasions to the knowledge of the Persian tongue.
Lack of facilities for the study of Persian, with perhaps a natural feeling that the language is extremely difficult for people of the West, has prevented all but a very few from perfecting themselves in the language blessed by the Manifestation. Manucher Khan, however, assures the friends that he has developed a method of teaching which will bring proficiency in a very short time. The teaching of Persian is a great service laid upon Manucher by the Guardian. All who desire to take lessons by correspondence should write to Manucher Khan, care of Bahá’í Library, 116 West 49th Street, New York.
BAHA'I PRESS BUREAU AT GENEVA[edit]
Last summer the solid foundation was laid for a Bahá’í connection with the international activities centered at Geneva, through the activity of Mrs. Elizabeth Nourse who undertook this work at the request of the American National Assembly, with the approval of Shoghi Effendi. All careful observers of the trend toward[Page 8]
international cooperation stress the need for a universal spirit capable of vitalizing the numerous important projects already under way. As this feeling increases, the influence that might be exerted by a trained newspaper correspondent with proper credentials at Geneva can become very great. Mrs. Nourse has pioneered the first and most difficult steps in the development of what we hope will be a far-reaching Bahá’í activity.
MME. DREYFUS-BARNEY SERVING CAUSE OF PEACE[edit]
Two publications recently received bear witness to the many activities being carried on by Mme. Dreyfus Barney, editor of “Some Answered Questions,” in connection with women’s movements devoted to peace. The Bulletin of the American Woman's Club of Paris contains an article by Mrs. Dreyfus-Barney entitled “Consultation and Conciliation Versus Conflict,” while the bulletin Of the International Council of Women, published in London, carries another contribution by Mrs. Dreyfus-Barney, “A Practical Effort Towards World Peace.” The spiritual alignment of all movements sincerely to the ideal of peace is rapidly turning from the political to the religious motive, which is equivalent to turning from the past to the future. This change in motive and emphasis should give such a deep Baha’i student a unique opportunity eventually to spread the Message of Baha'u'llah among a large and influential group of women leaders.
MRS. BEDIKIAN PUBLISHES BULLETIN ON TEMPLE[edit]
In connection with the Guardian's advice to Mrs. Victoria. Bedikian, to assist in promoting the Plan of Unified Action, special bulletin containing numerous expressions of devotion to the Mashriqu'l-Adhkar has recently been published by this tireless Baha’i worker. Could we all see as clearly as Mrs. Bedikian how the Baha’i Temple in its very physical construction constitutes a perfect picture, in miniature, of the new civilization so many millions passionately seek and crave, how much shorter would be this period of transition and preparation among the believers of the West!
Publications of this character are really aspects of what Shoghi Effendi desired the Baha’i NEWS LETTER to become; therefore we hope that in future we may assist such ardent efforts of service by publishing them as special of the NEWS LETTER.
MARTHA ROOT AND MOUNTFORT MILLS HOLD PUBLIC MEETINGS IN ENGLAND[edit]
The following notes of interesting activities in England are taken from the latest circular letter issued by the National Spiritual Assembly of England.
Miss Martha L. Root of the United States has spent five months in Great Britain. After her return to London from the 18th Universal Esperanto Congress in Edinburgh, Scotland, she gave two lectures before the International New Thought Congress in London. Shoghi Effendi cabled Mr. Mountfort Mills in Paris asking him to lecture with Miss Root in London for three weeks. Four public lectures in Lindsay Hall were arranged by the London Spiritual Assembly. Mrs. Thornburg Cropper and Lady Blomfield arranged two World Unity Conferences in Caxton Hall. Sunday meetings held in Mrs. George’s home in Argyle Mansions. Miss Elizabeth Herrick had a meeting for fifty guests in her home. Mrs. Marcus Slade had an afternoon meeting at her home, Mallard's Court. Mrs. R. B. Knight, a Baha’i in Brighton, had a meeting in her city.
The Spiritualist Church of which Sir Arthur Conan is President, in London, invited Mr. Mills and Miss Root to take their Sunday Morning Service. Miss Root broadcast in London during the visit of the Dominion Premiers. She was asked to speak on the subject: “An American Woman Views the Dominions.” She gave the words of Sir Abdu’l Bahá Abbas on brotherhood. One Children’s meeting was held in the home of Mrs. Arthur Brown. Little Miss Molly Brown, founder of the Garden of Justice, presided. The Faithists arranged a meeting. Miss Dulcie Turnbell and Miss Root were hostesses at an evening for young people in Emersaon Hall. Mr. Sohail Afnan of Haifa was the guest of honor. He spoke eloquently and with great power on what youth can do. The young people are continuing these evening talks.
Two visits were made to Manchester College, Oxford, where Abdu’l-Bahá had spoken. Professor L. P. Jacks. (Editor of the Hibbert Journal ) and head of the college, arranged for Mr. Mills and Miss Root to speak before Manchester College students; afterwards an open forum followed. Four books were placed in the College Library.
Mr. Mills, Mr. H. Dreyfus-Barney, Mr. G. Townshend and Miss Root visited Prof. R. A. Nicholson of Cambridge University. He is the Professor of Oriental Languages since the passing of Prof. Edward G. Browne.
Mr. Mills and Mrs. Dreyfus-Barney spoke at a meeting of the Religious and Ethics Committee of the League of Nations, held in the home of Mrs. Alexander Whyte. Mrs. Dreyfus-Barney spoke before the National Congress of the Council of Women and Miss Root spoke in Denmark Hill, London.
Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Marshall, Bahá’ís of Birmingham, arranged with the Birmingham Esperantists for Miss Root and Mr. Mills to lecture in the Birmingham Y. M. C. A. A Quaker family who had entertained Dr. Esslemont invited Miss Root to be their guest in Birmingham.
The Manchester Bahá’ís arranged a series of lectures for eight days. Different speakers went for two or three days each and spoke with Miss Root who remained for the eight days. Mr. Mills spoke with her Saturday evening before the Bahá’ís in Mr. Joseph's offices. Mr. Ahmad Yazdi of Port Said was a welcome guest. They spoke Sunday in the Adult School in Warrington and Tuesday evening, in Science Hall in Altrincham. Then Mr. Mills left for Paris, Geneva and Haifa. Mr. Fred Schopflocher of Montreal, visiting in London, came to Manchester for two days. Miss Root and Mrs. Schopflocher spoke before the Arts Club of Rev. M. H. H. Johnson’s Church, Manchester, and the next afternoon Mrs. Schopflocher gave a tea at the Midland Hotel for friends to come and ask questions. The same day both Bahá’ís spoke, at the noon hour, before the employees of the Linotype and Machinery Company of Altrincham which employs seventeen hundred men. They were guests of the Directors at luncheon. The same evening they lectured in the Adult School, Gorton. Mrs. Louis Gregory of Green Acre, Eliot, Maine, United States, who was en route to her work in Budapest and Vienna, spent one day with the Manchester friends and spoke beautifully at this meeting of the Adult School. Miss Dulcie Turnbull of London went to Manchester for four days to help Miss Root.
Lady Blomfield went to Manchester for the week-end. She and Miss Root had a meeting in the Victoria Hotel Saturday evening. Sunday, Miss Root addressed two Hundred boys and girls in the Unitarian School and Sunday evening both spoke in Rev. H. H. Biggs' Unitarian Church in Altrincham. After the service more than one hundred people remained for nearly two hours to ask questions.
