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November, 1944
Bahá’í Era
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NEWS |
The First Year of the Second Bahá’í Century[edit]
MESSAGES FROM THE GUARDIAN
I rejoice in the success of the vitally needed, timely conference with Latin American representatives; greatly welcome the decisions reached and the plans formulated. The first year of the second Bahá’í century should witness the establishment of a Spiritual Assembly in every remaining Republic and be signalized by a steady increase in the number of pioneers for both Latin and North America; by a further multiplication of groups, a wider dissemination of Bahá’í literature in both Spanish and Portuguese, closer relationships consolidating the communities and more effective contact with these communities with the masses of the population and all races and classes. I am ardently praying for mighty victories in every field as essential preliminary to the emergence of independent National Spiritual Assemblies and as indispensable prelude to launching in other continents, soon after the termination of the world conflict, the second stage of the momentous World Plan so intimately associated by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá with the future destinies of the illustrious American Bahá’í Community.
July 17, 1944
The splendid and unique success that has attended the Centenary celebrations so admirably conducted by the American Bahá’í community, has befittingly crowned not only the fifty year record of services rendered by its valiant members, but the labors associated with the entire body of their fellow—workers in East and West in the course of an entire century. The consummation of the Seven Year Plan, immortalizing the fame of this richly blessed community, set the seal of complete spiritual triumph on these historic celebrations. A memorable chapter in the history of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh in the West has been closed. A new chapter is now opening, a chapter which ere its termination, must eclipse the most shining victories won so heroically by those who have so fearlessly launched the first stage of the Great Plan conceived by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá for the American believers. The prizes won so painstakingly in both the North and South American continents must be preserved at all costs. A mighty impetus should, at however great a sacrifice, be lent to the multiplication of Bahá’í centers in Latin America, to the expansion of Bahá’í literature, to the translation of the Bahá’í sacred writings, to the proclamation of the verities of the Faith to the masses, to the strengthening of the bonds binding the newly-fledged communities to each other, and to the deepening of the spiritual life of their members.
The task so marvelously initiated in the Latin Republics must be further consolidated are the prosecutors of the World Plan bequeathed by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá can embark on further stages, of still greater significance, in their world teaching mission. The cessation of hostilities will open before them fields of service of tremendous fertility and undreamed-of magnitude. The advantages and opportunities these fields will offer them cannot be exploited unless and until the work to which they have already set their hand in the Western Hemisphere is sufficiently advanced and consolidated. Time is pressing. The new tasks are already beginning to loom on the horizon. The work that still remains to be accomplished ere the next stage is ushered in is still considerable and exacting. I feel confident that the American Bahá’í community will, as it has in the past, rise to the occasion and discharge its high duties as befits the unique position it occupies.
August 18, 1944
The following excerpts from the same letter were written by the Guardian through his Secretary.
As you know, from his various cabled messages, he has been greatly rejoiced over the complete triumph of the arduous Seven Year Plan undertaken by the American believers during a difficult period in world events and carried forward to a glorious conclusion in the very teeth of the tempest of war which has been raging for almost five of the seven years of their heroic endeavor. To complete such a Plan during times of peace and security would in itself have been a great achievement; but to have succeeded during the darkest days of humanity’s abasement and trial, is truly little short of miraculous and must forever attest the calibre of the faith and loyalty which fills the hearts of the members of the blessed American Bahá’í community.
His hope and belief is that they will not rest on their oars, but will, their appetites whetted by their successes, carry on their great and noble tasks allotted to them by the Center of the Covenant Himself.
The work that lies ahead of them
in the immediate future is clearly
defined: The great advantages won
for the Faith in the eyes of the public
by the remarkable success of the
Centenary in Wilmette; the large
attendance of believers, the presence
of gifted and devoted Central and
South American representatives of
newly established outposts of the
Faith, should be followed up by
teaching campaigns, wide publicity[Page 2]
and as many radio broadcasts as
can be secured. A contact with the
masses has, for the first time, to all
intents and purposes, since ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s
visit, been made, and should
be vigorously maintained. Inside the
Bahá’í Fold every effort must be
exerted to safeguard the newly established
Assemblies and prevent
them from falling back into group
status again. In Latin America the
Assemblies must not only be maintained,
but new ones established in
the Republics which have not yet a
Bahá’í administrative nucleus. Literature
in Spanish and Portuguese
should be made available as speedily
as possible and disseminated far and
wide. Latin American and native Bahá’ís
should, whenever qualified, be
urged and assisted to pioneer, to
travel and to teach in Central and
South America, thereby encouraging
them to gradually shoulder their own
responsibilities.
With such a triumph behind you the Guardian feels confident you will face these many tasks that lie ahead with joy and his prayers will constantly be offered on your behalf and for your inspiration and guidance.
The final message received by the National Spiritual Assembly is the Guardian's reply to word sent him from the September meeting that the National Assembly is determined to arise in unity with the National Committees and the local Assemblies to preserve the prizes already won and prepare to discharge the greater responsibilities and tasks which lie ahead:
Profoundly gratified, I greatly welcome the noble determination of Committees and Assemblies unitedly to arise to preserve the prizes dearly won and prepare themselves befittingly to discharge the mightier, more glorious task ahead in the opening years of the second century.
September 24, 1944
Letters from the Guardian to Individuals[edit]
The following excerpts from letters written by the Guardian through his Secretary to individual Bahá’ís are published with his consent:
He feels that, although your desire to partake actively of the dangers and miseries afflicting so many millions of people today, is natural, and a noble impulse, there can be no comparison between the value of Bahá’í work and any other form of service to humanity.
If the Bahá’ís could evaluate their work properly, they would see that, whereas other forms of relief work are superficial in character, alleviating the sufferings and ills of men for a short time at best, the work they are doing is to lay the foundation of a new spiritual Order in the world founded on the Word of God, operating according to the laws He has laid down for this age. No one else can do this work except those who have fully realized the meaning of the Message of Bahá’u’lláh, whereas almost any courageous, sincere person can engage in relief work, etc.
The believers are building a refuge for mankind. This is their supreme, sacred task and they should devote every moment they can to this task. —To Dagmar Dole, March 25, 1943.
Regarding the four and twenty elders: The Master, in a Tablet, stated that they were the Báb, the eighteen Letters of the Living, and five others who would be known in the future. So far we do not know who these five others are. — To Mrs. George R. True, July 22, 1943.
If the believers could properly evaluate the work they are doing, they would be astonished at its importance, but they are in the position of not being able to see the forest for the trees; they are too close to it to realize its true import. — To Mrs. Alice Dudley, May 3, 1943.
“The Hosts of His Testament” refers to those who are firm in the Will and Testament of Bahá’u’lláh and who defend and uphold it. — To Mrs. Alice Dudley, April 18, 1941, in answer to question about the meaning of this term used in the Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.
The word “cord” so often mentioned in the Teachings means both the Faith itself and also the power of the Faith which sustains those who cling to it. — To Mrs. Alice Dudley, April 18, 1941.
Ultimately, all the battle of life is within the individual. No amount of organization can solve the inner problems or produce or prevent, as the case may be, victory or failure at a crucial moment. In such times as these particularly, individuals are torn by great forces at large in the world, and we see some weak ones strong, and strong ones fail—we can only try, through loving advice, as your Committee has done, to bring about the act on the part of the believer which will be for the highest good of the Cause. Because obviously something bad for the Cause cannot be the highest good of the individual Bahá’í. — To Leroy Ioas, December 17, 1943.
Now is not the time for the friends to seek to establish a Bahá’í village; they have definite tasks confronting them of the utmost importance and urgency, and on these they should concentrate their attention. Nor does the Guardian feel that it is necessary for the friends to buy land at this time. In the future, when they have accomplished the goals set out for them by the beloved Master Himself, they will be able to develop more community projects, but now such enterprises would merely dissipate their strength which should all be directed into the teaching work. —To Mrs. Ethel Murray, March 26, 1942.
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Bahá’í News is published by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’í’s of the United States and Canada as the official news–letter of the Bahá’í community. The first issue appeared in December, 1924. On April 10, 1925, the Guardian wrote: “The News Letter which you have lately initiated fulfills a very vital function. . . . I would urge you to enlarge in scope . . . that in time it may devote a special section to every phase of your activities, administrative, devotional, humanitarian, financial, educational and otherwise. “It should become a great factor in promoting understanding, providing information on Bahá’í activity, both local and foreign, in stimulating interest, in combating evil influences, and in upholding and safeguarding the institutions of the Cause.” The contents include: material supplied by the National Spiritual Assembly, such as the Guardian’s messages, the Assembly’s letters and its general statements and reports; Committee plans which have been approved and authorized; Committee news reports of activities; annual reports from local Assemblies; activities in regional areas as reported by or through the National Teaching Committee; activities in Central and South America as reported by the Inter–America Committee; news from other lands gathered from the bulletins of the various National Assemblies; a record of new enrollments and transfers; a record of deaths; photographs of general Bahá’í interest. Bahá’í News is edited for the National Spiritual Assembly by its Bahá’í News Committee: Horace Holley, Secretary, Garreta Busey, Mable H. Paine. Address: Bahá’í News Commitlee, 536 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, Ill. |
Prayers to Be Read as Revealed[edit]
Regarding your question as to the changing of pronouns in Bahá’í prayers: The Guardian does not approve of such changes, either in the specific prayers or in any others. They should be read as printed without changing a single word.—Shoghi Effendi, through his Secretary, to the National Spiritual Assembly April 13, 1944.
(This excerpt was written in reply to question frequently asked by believers, whether it is permissible to change a prayer in order to suit his immediate situation. For example, to say “we” instead of “I,” or “he” instead of “she” etc.)
On Dissolution and Formation of Local Assemblies[edit]
In connection with your Assembly’s two actions regarding the formation and dissolution of Spiritual Assemblies: The Guardian approves of your first action, which he understands is only for this last year of the first Bahá’í Century, as, of course, in the future Assemblies will be formed only during the month of April. As to the second action, however, any Assembly, which is dissolved must immediately report to the national secretary, who must always keep an up to date list of Assemblies. Any dissolved Assembly cannot be reconstituted until the time of election in April. This is the general principle which must be followed in the future. In this last year of the Century, however, any Assembly that is dissolved may be reconstituted as soon as the number of believers reverts to nine again.— Shoghi Effendi, through his Secretary, to the National Spiritual Assembly April 13, 1944.
(Written in reply to question of procedure raised by the NSA in connection with the special condition existing prior to the Centenary date due to the Guardian’s temporary waiving of the regulation that Assemblies can only be elected or constituted on April 21.)
A New Bahá’í Era Begins[edit]
Beloved Friends:
In the messages which have come to us from the Guardian since the Convention and Centenary, we respond deeply and joyously to two different but blended and inter-related
Aerial view of Bahá’í House of Worship at Wilmette, showing its location at the corner of Sheridan Road and the canal. The Yacht basin of Wilmette harbor appears at the right. Wilmette public park, bathing beach, and Lake Michigan frame the background.
themes. Shoghi Effendi has expressed
his satisfaction and gratitude
for the successful completion
of all three aspects of the Seven
Year Plan, and for the achievement
of so great a Centenary celebration.
At the same time he quickens us
to awareness and capacity for the
greater tasks which lie before the
American Bahá’í Community in
terms of the mission entrusted to
us by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to spread the
Faith of Bahá’u’lláh to the ends of
the earth.
The first year of the second Bahá’í century is the opening of a new era for the Bahá’ís of North America, associated now so closely with their coworkers of Central and South America and the isles of the Caribbean sea. We have entered a higher class of the spiritual university, we have been given a greater rank, we live in a world community and not merely in that of our city, our state or our nation.
Let us read and ponder these particular
messages, for they not only
guide our steps of progress, but release
the power we require to become
so mature, so tireless, so effective
in the prosecution of our Bahá’í
affairs. We are to safeguard and
maintain all the Assemblies established
in the new states and provinces;
we are to multiply the number
of Assemblies and the number
of groups; we are to bring the Faith
to the attention of the masses, not
merely to a few individuals; we are
to become better acquainted with
the other Bahá’ís of our state or[Page 4]
province; we are to form Assemblies
in seven more Latin American
Republics—and accomplish this during
the present year, as a necessary
foundation for the international
teaching which both North and South
American believers are to undertake
as the tides of war recede and the
major problem of world order confronts
a devastated mankind.
This year the National Spiritual Assembly wishes to draw close to each individual believer and each administrative body, as parts of one and the same spiritual entity and social organism charged with a holy and unique mission by the Manifestation who came to save humanity and give it the means of law, order, unity, peace and knowledge of God. No part of the Bahá’í body can be effective or joyous except by unified and cooperative relationships with all other parts. Each believer must attain his own degree of consecration to realize his contribution to the general unity, and the administrative order, which is the form which the general spiritual unity is to take in the social world, must in each of its vital institutions attain and preserve a true vision of order and activity as a whole. The function entrusted to each Assembly, national or local, is to be understood and discharged conscientiously, and each Committee, national or regional, has its appointed field of action wherein it carries responsibility for the entire Bahá’í community. Whatever is accomplished, by heroic individuals or by devoted and efficient Committees or by unified and experienced Assemblies, we draw our capacity and inspiration from one and the same common store. The Holy Spirit surrounds us all alike. We have no private hoards or special privileges of spiritual wealth. The Spirit flows through the individual and through the organ and the institution without stint or discrimination in the measure of the individual’s capacity and sacrifice and in the measure of the institution’s unity and devotion for the fulfillment of its particular task.
In its luminous depths, the work of the Spirit is a mystery which each Bahá’í learns for himself. The Guardian is its perfect universal expression for the worldwide community at this time. Under his general guidance the national and local work requires faith, knowledge and courageous energy on the part of all the Bahá’ís concerned. Our work will not be done for us, but through us and with us by the higher Power.
There are certain elements which can and will contribute to the collective capacity of the American Bahá’í community this year. First, a sharing in the spirit of intimate comradeship of all the national plans and activities through regular communications in Bahá’í News. Second the employment of the National Fund for appropriations distributed as fairly as possible over all the work. Third, every possible assistance in meeting the need for state and province development as the basis for the election of Convention delegates each year. Fourth, enlargement of Bahá’í News as may be required by the Bahá’í News Committee for reporting the activities made known by National Committees and local Assemblies. Fifth, the provision of large editions of teaching literature so that the friends may distribute pamphlets at low cost.
National Fund
First, let us share some very important facts about the National Fund.
Certified Public Accountants have gone over our financial records for the period April 1, 1938 to February 29, 1944, and found them in order. This brings the certification of the accounts up to the end of the last Bahá’í fiscal year.
From the report of the Centenary Committee we cite the following figures of special expense incurred in this great undertaking.
- 1. Improvements to Temple interior
and grounds .................$2,908.75
- 2. Centenary expense ........$7,454.81
- 3. Latin American representatives,
travel and living expense (in May and also July) .............. $12,506.58
One additional item is the amount provided to Canadian delegates in American currency to make it possible for them to attend the Convention and Centenary — $525.00. This amount was donated to the Canadian Bahá’í Fund by the delegates in Canadian currency, so that this transaction represents a transfer of funds rather than an appropriation or expense.
The Annual Budget for the current year was reported in a circular letter issued early in June. Its items include: Administration, $15,000.00; North America Teaching, $30,000.00; South America Teaching, $15,000; Temple Maintenance and Operation, $10,000.00; Purchase of Temple Land, $10,000.00; Properties Maintenance other than Temple, $10,000.00; Annual Convention, Public Program and State Elections, $5,000.00; Service Committees, Operating Expense and Activities, $15,000.00; Assembly Development Committee, $5,000.00; Contingent for Literature, $5,000.00; Reserve, $5,000.00 — Total, $125,000.00.
This total is less than that of the Budgets adopted in recent years for the achievement of the Seven Year Plan. Nevertheless, it calls for intense and constant devotion, and for hearty cooperation on the part of the local Assemblies, that each community may donate to the National Fund every month.
Assembly Roll
Up to the September meeting of the National Spiritual Assembly, reports had been received of four local Assemblies reduced to group status since April 21, the date of the annual elections: Jersey City, Newark, Huntington Park and St. Lambert. Deaths and departures from the city brought the number of believers below the minimum required to sustain the institution.
This report is evidence of the fact that zealous teaching, ardor in the study, and unity in spirit is required to maintain as well as establish a Bahá’í community. To preserve what we have, we must strive for more.
All-America Unity
One new and distinctive step which has been taken this year is the appointing of Committees in Latin America with general functions which could not be carried out by any one local Assembly’s authority or resources. We report here as important current news an excerpt from a circular letter recently sent to all the Bahá’í centers in Central and South America:—
Many momentous decisions were made possible by this new and unprecedented union of minds and hearts from all parts of the Americas. But before we share with you the various actions take after mutual consultation, we wish to record the names of all the Bahá’ís who came as representatives of their fellow-believers at home, either at the time of the Centenary in May or the meetings held during July:
Sr. Salvador Tormo, Argentine
Dr. Fernando Nova, Brazil
Sr. Estaban Canales Leyton, Chile
Srta. Josephina Rodriquez, Colombia
Sr. Raul Contreras, Costa Rica
Sr. Eugenio Gines, Cuba
Sr. Eduardo Gonzales Lopez, Ecuador
Dr. Edelberto Torres, Guatemala
Srta. Angels Ochoa Valezquez, Honduras
Mr. William Mitchell, Jamaica
Sr. Carlos Vergara, Mexico
Srta. Blanca V. Mejia, Nicaragua
Mr. Alfred Osborne. Panama
Sr. Roque Centurion Miranda, Paraguay
Sra. Isabel Tirado do Barreda, Peru
Dr. Manuel Berges, Santo Domingo
Srta. Clara Luz Montalvo, San Salvador
The Bahá’ís who had planned to
come from Bolivia, Haiti, Uruguay
and Venezuela were unfortunately
prevented on account of travel
difficulties. Visitors from Latin America,
including pioneer teachers, included:
Miss Elisabeth Cheney, Mrs.
Gayle Woolson, Mrs. Louise Caswell,
Mrs. Cora Oliver, Miss Gwenne D.
Sholtis, Miss Margaret Lentz, Miss
Josephine Kruka, Miss Winifred Louise
Baker, Miss Jean Silver, Srta.
Ofelia Montalvo, Mr. Raymond I.
Betts and Mrs. Frances Stewart, all
of whom contributed to the spirit of
these Inter–America Bahá’í gatherings.
The plans adopted at the conference in May, supplemented by further actions taken in July, are summarized as follows:
To appoint a committee on the Spanish translation of Bahá’í literature with the function of translating Bahá’í literature into Spanish, review translations submitted to the Committee, recommend the order in which books are to be sent to the press, this Committee to submit its recommendations to the National Spiritual Assembly for final approval. The Committee is to be established with the following membership: Emilio Barros, Chairman, Lillian McRae and Salvador Tormo.
To establish a Committee on Portuguese translations of Bahá’í literature with the function of translating Bahá’í literature into Portuguese, review translations submitted to the Committee, recommend the order in which books and pamphlets are sent to press. This Committee is to submit its recommendations to the National Assembly for final approval. The Committee is to be established with the following membership: Leonora Armstrong, Chairman, Mrs. Roy Worley, Dr. Fernando Nova and Mrs. Roscoe Wood.
To establish a secondary center for distribution of Bahá’í literature, with the authority to print leaflets and pamphlets, and receive and reship books published in Buenos Aires or North America.
To establish a committee with these functions, consisting of Alfred Osborne, Chairman, Louise Caswell, Cora Oliver, Julia Regal.
To provide all the Latin American
Bahá’í Library in the Headquarters of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’í of Iraq and Baghdád.
Bahá’í centers with copies of
documentary material which indicate
the recognition of the Bahá’í religion
by the American Federal Government,
including photostatic copies of
the certificates issued by the State
and Treasury Departments which
certify the Declaration of Trust, and
copy of the latest report on the Bahá’í
Faith of the religious census,
and photostats of the trademark
issued on the Greatest Name, the
word “Bahá’í” and World Order
Magazine.
To deposit with the American Consulates in all cities of Latin America where Bahá’í centers exist, and where they are established in the future, a set of the documentary material listed in the foregoing paragraph, and including a copy of the summary in English issued by the National Spiritual Assembly.
To appoint an editorial committee with the function of producing a monthly bulletin in Spanish to be issued in mimeographed form to circulate items of Bahá’í news of particular interest to Latin America, teaching plans, notices of new publications and other Bahá’í material, to be prepared by contributing editors selected by each of the various centers, and also carrying such material as may be provided by the Inter-America Committee and the National Spiritual Assembly. The bulletin to be started with budgets voted from the Latin American fund of the National Spiritual Assembly.
To appoint this committee with the following members: Alfred Osborne, Editor, Prof. Edelberto Torres, Assistant Editor.
To appoint an editing committee of a Portuguese section to be added to copies of the bulletin received in Brazil and distributed to the Brazilian believers.
To appoint the above committee to consist of Dr. Fernando Nova, Chairman, Mrs. Leonora Armstrong, Mrs. Roy Worley.
To request the committee to submit a sample of the bulletin with an estimate of cost on an edition sufficient to include all the Latin American believers, and to run it with four pages, front and back, of standard form.
To authorize the Treasurer to provide a budget up to $250.00 for the first year for this expense.
The Spirit of Victory
The world will pass through its
greatest changes and transformations
in the years that lie immediately
ahead. Great and powerful
organizations will attempt to exploit
troubles and uncertainties and confusions
for the seizure of power and
control of human life for ends other
than those revealed by Bahá’u’lláh.
Our conviction of spiritual victory
for His Cause will be tested as never[Page 6]
before, but these tests, as Shoghi
Effendi has so clearly pointed out,
will come as opportunities to Bahá’ís
and not as disasters. But we must
be prepared; we must be unified in
mighty efforts; we must drive down
the pillars of our Bahá’í life to that
bedrock of reality which no upheavals
can ever disturb.
In particular let us make effort to attain full realization of the Guardian’s warnings and directions concerning the essential nature of the Bahá’í World Faith, that we may walk on the right path through the sectarian and political influences that would perplex our vision and dampen our ardor if we turn aside from fundamental Bahá’í teachings. Those who wish to review this subject may refer to the concluding section of the Guardian’s letter on “The Unfoldment of World Civilization” in pamphlet form or in his book “The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh.” There are supplementary and definite references also in Bahá’í Procedure, while the Guardian directed the N.S.A. to reprint in Bahá’í News the admirable statement issued by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Australia and New Zealand expounding the non–political character of the Faith. This statement will be found in the Bahá’í News of May, 1941.
Convention Resolutions[edit]
Resolutions adopted by the 1944 Convention in the form of recommendations submitted to the National Spiritual Assembly are published for the information of the American Bahá’í Community, together with the record of actions taken by the N.S.A. thereon.
As recommended, the Assembly has voted to provide a qualified stenographer for the next Convention to take down resolutions and special matters.
In connection with resolution concerning youth it was voted to record continuance of the policy of the National Spiritual Assembly established previously to make use of Bahá’í young people on Committee work wherever possible. The Assembly also urges that Bahá’í youth themselves make every effort to develop the opportunities to teach among non-Bahá’ís, and every assistance and facility will be provided to achieve this goal. (Note: The purpose of a National Youth Committee is to encourage a schedule of constructive activity which prepares Bahá’í youth for full administrative responsibility and teaching experience.)
The National Youth Committee is being requested to plan in the course of this year a general rally meeting to be held at the Bahá’í House of Worship during one of the posted sessions of the National Spiritual Assembly in order to combine such a rally with a brief consultation with the National body.
It was voted to publish in Bahá’í News, and to submit to the Guardian, the following general resolution adopted by the Convention:
Voted, that we, the delegates assembled under the dome of the Bahá’í House of Worship in this first All-America Convention, representing the Bahá’ís of North, Central and South America, conscious that the destiny of America as envisioned by the Founders of the Bahá’í Faith is to “lay the corner-stone of a universal and enduring peace; proclaim the solidarity, the unity, and maturity of mankind;” usher in the future world commonwealth; and “lead all nations spiritually;” do solemnly and gratefully acclaim the triumphant consummation of the spiritual tasks of the First Century of the Bahá’í Faith.
With profound emotion we record the successful conclusion on March 28, 1944, of a Plan launched in 1937 which was the first step in the “world mission entrusted . . to the American Bahá’í Community.” This step signalized the erection of the framework of the Bahá’í Administrative Order in every State of the United States, every Province of Canada, Hawaii, District of Columbia, and Alaska; and the establishment of the Faith in every Republic of Central and South America.
As we stand upon the threshold of this Second Century, we feel it incumbent to call upon the collective devotion and united will of the Bahá’í communities of all the Americas, for the immediate and energetic prosecution of the next stages in the enfoldment of this mission. To this end we propose the adoption of the following program of action:
- 1) The rapid development in North
America of a Bahá’í community fully qualified to prosecute its world mission, and to discharge all the responsibilities with which this community has been vested.
- 2) The complete establishment at
the earliest possible date on the structural basis of the Bahá’í Administrative Order in every Republic of Central and South America, and the multiplication of Bahá’í communities throughout Latin America.
- 3) Preparation, through translation
and publication of literature, and the training of teachers and pioneers, for bringing to the aid of our fellow Bahá’ís in Europe, Asia and Africa, such material and spiritual assistance as they may require when the termination of the war shall permit the resumption of full teaching activity.
We recommend to the National Spiritual Assembly that these proposals for inaugurating the tasks of the Second Bahá’í Century be submitted to the Guardian of the Faith for his advice and counsel, and that a Plan be then devised and promulgated for our guidance in the redoubled efforts which we are eagerly resolved to undertake.
The N.S.A. has voted to record that it was deeply moved by the determination of the friends at the Convention to immediately carry on actively all branches of our National and International teaching work that actions have been taken to see in motion the accomplishment of the tasks which the Guardian indicates are immediately before us, and the Assembly will further appreciate any advices which the Guardian wishes to give intensifying that work as well as making practicable any of the suggestions contained in the Convention resolution.
In connection with the vote of the delegates recommending that the Assembly set up a special Fund to found a Bahá’í school in Panama, it was voted to record in Bahá’í News that the Assembly discussed this subject with the Latin American delegates after the Convention and it was their view that this step should be held in abeyance for future consideration.
After discussion of resolutions concerning believers in the armed forces, it was voted to print two hundred extra copies of a Bahá’í Directory going out as an insert with the next issue of Bahá’í News, and with these extra copies provide a list of names and addresses of the Secretaries of Assemblies of New Zealand, Australia, England and France. These copies to be made available to Bahá’ís in the armed forces. This has been done, and the complete Directory is sent out on request.
It was voted to refer to the Selective[Page 7]
Service Advisory Committee, to
reopen the matter with the War
Department, the recommendation that
the War Department he requested to
have the Bahá’í Faith indicated on
the identification tags of Bahá’í
service men and women.
It was likewise voted to record the fact that efforts have been made to develop a plan for Bahá’í teaching among the armed forces, but it has been found by most of the friends that the only way to teach is through personal contact by the Bahá’ís in the service or else with the commanding officers of the camps.
Because of its impracticality at this time, it was voted to take no action on the suggestion that some member of the Faith be sent on a tour of the battle fronts for the USO.
With respect to the recommendation that steps be taken to bring the Bahá’í teachings to the attention of those conducting classes in public schools, it is reported that a Committee has been appointed to discharge this particular function, and a later and more complete notice will be given as soon as the work has been planned.
On Publication of the Guardian’s Letters[edit]
For a number of years, the National Spiritual Assembly has only published in Bahá’í News such excerpts from the Guardian’s letters to individuals, committees or local Assemblies as the Assembly itself had brought to the Guardian’s attention and obtained his consent to publish. This procedure, which rests upon the Guardian’s own direction to the N.S.A., means publication not only in Bahá’í News but in any official Bahá’í communication such as Assembly bulletins, National Committee circular letters or Regional bulletins and circular letters. The believers are requested to submit to the N.S.A. whatever letter they have from Haifa, which they feel should be published.
Our Teaching Program[edit]
“Immediate attention should be focused on the course of the opening year of the Second Century on consolidation of the nobly-won victories through reinforcement of newly–formed Assemblies, multiplication of groups and increase in number of Assemblies. . .”
Through this message we can find
Race unity banquet conducted by the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Milwaukee in the City Club, Milwaukee, October 29, 1943.
the outlines of our teaching program
taking shape.
- 1) The reinforcement of new
Assemblies means more settlers and more teaching assistance, as well as the intensification of local effort. There is still a very great need for volunteers in both capacities, since several of the new Assemblies have lost personnel and are in a precarious position, while all will benefit by the stimulation of circuit and travelling teachers.
- 2) The multiplication of groups is
a logical development from the remarkable fact that believers already reside in 1300 localities in North America. It is these believers and groups who today has the true opportunity for pioneering. It is to them the Guardian looks, for they are the growing-points of dynamic expansion.
- 3) The increase in number of
Assemblies has inexhaustible possibilities which lie close at hand. At the present time, Regional Committees are surveying their areas for groups which have nearly the required number. Although we do not yet have their count, we know that the total is amazingly large, and promises that we shall far outstrip the work of the last seven years which doubled the number of Assemblies.
Clearly, the three–fold program which the Guardian describes is a call to each one of us and can embrace the efforts of all. Settlers, teachers, isolated believers, groups, local and regional teaching committees—all are summoned to take up this new phase in collective teaching, to found on this continent the mighty reservoir of Bahá’u’lláh’s legions.
What can be achieved through devotion and effort has been richly demonstrated by the pioneers of the Seven Year Plan. Today, we are all pioneers in a new and all–embracing task. We have the opportunity to apply well–tested methods, and to advance with confidence in the confirmation of God, which has supported us in the past and will assuredly sustain every sincere believer.
Here, in the exhilarating phrases of the Divine Plan, may our vision be renewed and reinforced: “Now strive ye that the Collective Center of the sacred religions—for the inculcation of which all the Prophets were manifested and which is no other than the spirit of the Divine Teachings—be spread in all parts of America. . .This is the most great work! Should you become confirmed therein, this world will become another world, the surface of the earth will become the delectable Paradise. and eternal Institutions be founded.”
Special Financial Report of Publishing Committee[edit]
A brief summary of the report submitted by the Publishing Committee on September 4 will give the believers a very clear picture of the size of our publishing operations through the final year of the first Bahá’í Century and well into the opening of the second Century.
On November 5, 1943, the Committee submitted to the National Spiritual Assembly a complete list of books, pamphlets, outlines, etc., either being printed at that time or earmarked for reprinting a year or so from that date. The purpose of this special survey was to develop a plan for keeping all the necessary Bahá’í titles in print during the period of the war, when publishing operations have become difficult and uncertain.
The total amount involved in that list was $27,000—the cost of keeping the needed titles in stock for two or more years. At that time the Committee was obliged to point out that it could not commit itself to that amount of expense at any one time but could meet a large part of it over a period of time.
Since then, and up to September 4, the Publications Committee has manufactured books and pamphlets to the amount of $14,827.65, and has in the process of completion work to the amount of $8,801.00—a total of $23,628.65. Against this cost, the Committee has paid printing bills to a total of $9,812.86, leaving a balance payable now or in the near future of $13,815.79. Through the beautiful generosity of one Bahá’í family a special donation has been made to pay the cost of the Guardian’s book, God Passes By, and therefore the Committee has cash on hand to defray this cost which is more than $3,000.00, thus reducing the outstanding amounts to something a little more than $10,000.00.
The Committee is making every effort to meet all these printing costs from current income, so that the National Bahá’í Fund will not have to be drawn upon for a special appropriation. In this connection the Committee wishes to emphasize the fact that the retail price of books cannot be set as low as many purchasers would prefer, for without a margin of profit the Committee would be unable to finance any new books or meet any emergency conditions, but could only manage to keep existing stock in print, unless
Newly incorporated Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Evanston
the National Assembly each year
added a publishing appropriation to
its annual budget. In purchasing a
Bahá’í book, the believer is not
merely acquiring one volume but
also contributing to the development
of the Bahá’í publishing facilities
and making this branch of Bahá’í
activity independent of the National
Fund.
New Publications[edit]
God Passes By, by Shoghi Effendi. The Guardian’s survey of the first Bahá’í Century is now in the bindery and a supply of books by November 15 is hoped for. This work has 436 pages and is bound in dark red fabrikoid. Price $2.50
The Bahá’í Centenary, compiled by the National Spiritual Assembly. Prepared as part of the Centenary celebration, this book contains excerpts concerning the Báb, words of Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and the Guardian concerning America, and articles by believers outlining aspects of American Bahá’í history and achievement. 268 pages, bound in blue fabrikoid. Now in the bindery. Publication date not determined. Price $2.00
The Báb’s Address for Letters of the Living, pamphlet reproducing hand-lettered text taken from pp. 92-94 of The Dawn-Breakers. Price 10c.
The Divine Art of Living, compiled by Mabel Hyde Paine. This beautiful title is now restored to our literature in an attractive, and small and convenient volume of excerpts from the Bahá’í Writings. 132 pages, bound in fabrikoid. Price $1.25
A World Survey of the Bahá’í Faith 1844-1944, compiled by the Guardian of the Faith. This is a 20-page pamphlet containing Shoghi Effendi’s own selection of facts and data showing the growth of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh in its first century. The National Spiritual Assembly wishes this featured in our teaching work, and the believers will find it of unique value for conveying a clear, impression of the scope of this world wide Cause. 50 copies for $1.50
The World Faith of Bahá’u’lláh; A Summary of Its Aims, Teachings, History and Administrative Order, by the National Spiritual Assembly. A reprint, in a more convenient size, of the four-page, 8½ by 11-inch summary issued in August, 1943. The present edition is a pamphlet of eight pages and measures 5 by 7 inches. 100 copies for $1.00.
Headlines Tomorrow, by Marzieh Gail. This interesting brief statement, which has been found so useful in teaching contacts, has been reprinted as a four page leaflet. 100 copies for $1.50
A Bahá’í Child’s ABC, text by Roberta Christian, illustrations by Rochelle Boonshaft. Following the classic style of the traditional first book for children, this work illustrates the letters of the alphabet with a running text associating each letter with a Bahá’í Figure or truth. Bound in red paper, title in gold. Price 75c.
World Order Magazine — special Centenary issues, May and June, 1944. Copies of these two numbers may be obtained at the special rate of ten for $1.00. Centenary talks have been made available in later issues of the magazine.
Complete price list of Bahá’í books sent on request. Address Bahá’í Publishing Committee, 110 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Ill.
Public Teaching Bulletin[edit]
The leaflet entitled A World Faith, each issue consisting of excerpts from the Bahá’í writings, is published by the National Spiritual Assembly and copies are obtained by sending cash in order to the Treasurer. Three new bulletins are now out, number 5, 6 and 7 respectively. Each issue is sold at the rate of 50 copies for 50C, 100 for $1.00 and so on.
Letters from Subscribers[edit]
The business office of World Order reports that numerous letters from the magazine’s subscribers continue to reflect its growing appeal to Bahá’ís and potential believers alike. Its recognition as an inspiring teaching medium is frequently referred to in the letters that accompany gift subscriptions; references, similar in meaning to the following excerpt from a subscriber’s communication:
“I believe, for those interested in the Faith, a gift subscription will be a constant teaching medium and a source of inspiration. Sometimes these friends cannot get to meetings and the magazine will maintain their touch with the Faith.”
Another inspiring letter that accompanied an order for five new subscriptions contained the following message: “We are proud to tell you that every Bahá’í family here now subscribes to World Order. That means nine copies come to our city each month and we have only fourteen Bahá’ís here.”
Incidentally, we understand that whilst single copies of the April and July 1944 issues of World Order are no longer available, it is still possible to secure copies of the May and June issues, containing: Selections from the Writings of the Báb, Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and the Guardian, related to the Mission of the Báb, also: Passages from the talks at the Centenary Convention, in quantities of 10 or more at the special price of .10c per copy by addressing orders to World Order, 110 Linden Ave., Wilmette, Ill.
Lecture Slides[edit]
Through the Temple Librarian and Sales Committee 25 sets of Temple slides are now available for purchase. Each set includes 15 Kodachrome views of the Temple and of the details of its ornamentation, and 35 black and white views showing progress in construction and sections of the outer finish. The color views are mounted in 2 x 2 inch paper mounts ready for projection, while the black and white views are in the form of a positive film strip. The titles of each of the 50 views and directions for mounting the separate black and white views in S.V.E. Ready-Mounts, obtainable at any Kodak store, are supplied with each order. The cost of the slides is $5.00 per set of 50, plus 25c for postage and insurance.
Photostats
Positive photostats or facsimile copies in black and white of the Will and Testament of Bahá’u’lláh and of the Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, photostats of the first or 1916 (framed) series of the Divine Plan Tablets, and of the historic Tablet of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to the House of Justice in Chicago are also available through the Temple Librarian and Sales Committee. The cost of these photostats is as follows:
Will and Testament of Bahá’u’lláh
- (3 pages) ......................$ .75
Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
- (10 pages) ..................... 1.75
Divine Plan Tablets to Northeastern,
- Southern, Central,
- Western States, and Canada,
- each........................... .35
Divine Plan Tablets to the
- United States and Canada:
First Tablet (2 pages in
- length ........................... .70
Second and third Tablets
- (4 pages in length), each.......... 1.40
Tablet to the House of Justice. .50
Orders enclosing check to cover costs and mailing should be sent to Mr. Harry E. Walrath, 4639 Beacon Street, Chicago, Ill.
Ornamentation of Bahá’í Temple[edit]
Final Report of Supervising Engineer
To the Temple Trustees for the Benefit of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States and Canada
Dear Friends:
About one year after the completion of the superstructure of the Temple, on June 6, 1932, the first contract for the ornamentation was awarded to John J. Earley of Washington, D.C. This contract involved the making and placing of the material comprising the dome ornamentation including the great ribs. As the work proceeded, it was found necessary to continue these ribs beyond the base of the dome to the foot of the clerestory.
The preliminary work under the first contract included studies of plant, technique, and methods for the execution of the work. While new and more difficult problems arose as the various subsequent contracts were prosecuted, the general principle of technique and method, early established and developed, were generally used throughout the entire project. For example, to allow for expansion and contraction of the reinforced concrete material and to eliminate cracking as far as practicable, the ornamentation was made in sections and placed with suitable spaces between adjacent sections. Each section was designed and prepared as a concrete cast reinforced with a steel frame to provide sufficient strength for handling at the plant and at the building and for resisting wind and other pressures as a part of the structure.
Practically the same groups of workmen carried out the various steps of the preparation of the models and molds and the pouring and curing of the casts at the Studio, and the erection of the casts and pouring of the piers, arches and other broad flat members of the building.
Outstanding among the problems that were solved in the handling of the work was the support and fastening of the dome ornamentation. A structural steel furring system was devised and built on the outer steel dome framework and in this system the 367 casts that comprise the dome ornamentation were securely supported and fastened.
One of the principal reasons for doing the dome ornamentation first was the early belief that this portion of the project would be the most difficult. As the work progressed into its later stages, however, unforeseen conditions and difficulties were encountered. These problems reached their highest complexity in the first or main story, especially in the placing and setting of the great spandrel sections and of the L-shaped cornice pieces. In this portion of the work, the cost of setting the casts was from two to three times the cost of making the sections; the reverse of the experience in the ornamentation of the dome, clerestory and gallery story. This unforeseen situation accounts partly for the over-run in cost over the original estimate of the main story contract.
The unique method of building
the Temple; erecting an enclosed
framework superstructure and
subsequently clothing it with an outer
covering to furnish the architectural
design, especially for a structure of
this unusual type and intricate
nature, was predicated on the use of
a plastic material for the making of
many casts from one model and
mold, and the accurate application
of these concrete sections to the
superstructure. Realizing these
requirements, the subcontractors
under the contractor, the George A.
Fuller Company, in the fabrication
and erection of the framework and
in the pouring of the concrete of the
superstructure, made every effort to
build a structure true to the dimensions[Page 10]
of the architect’s design. In
the application of the ornamentation
on the dome, clerestory, gallery
story and in the setting of the 917
step sections, the superstructure was
found to be remarkably true to form
and dimension. In the main story,
however, a distortion of a maximum
of about six inches was found at the
cornice and involved cutting out of
the concrete at the top of several
faces and the filling in with additional
concrete as backing on other
faces. This condition accounted for
an additional expense for labor and
material of about $10,000.00.
The accompanying table gives a brief resumé of the various steps in the handling of the exterior ornamentation, and the expenditures made under the series of contracts with John J. Earley under which this work was done.
The first two contracts, which involved the ornamentation of the dome, ribs and clerestory or drum beneath the dome, extended over a period of nearly three years. The preliminary work, including the preparation of plans, the remodeling of the plant at Rosslyn, Virginia, the building of the full-size wooden replica of one–ninth of the outer dome framework and other similar work were done during the summer and fall of 1932. Construction of the Temple was initiated with the erection of the furring system on the outer dome framework and continued through January, 1934, when the last sections of the great ribs were swung into place at the top of the dome. The erection of the dome and rib sections—involving the handling of pieces weighing up to three tons— was handled efficiently and without mishap by the Friedstad Company, the same contractors that erected the structural steel dome in the fall of 1930. In January, 1934, upon completion of the dome and ribs, a second contract was entered into with the Earley Studio for the ornamentation of the clerestory. This project was completed a little over a year later in January, 1935.
The over-run of some $30,800 in the cost of these first two contracts was due largely to the furring system and to the erection of casts; two items which had not been adequately allowed for in the original estimate.
A two-year period of construction inactivity elapsed from the summer of 1935 to the fall of 1937, during which time a special Technical Committee
Bahá’í Center of Minneapolis
of Bahá’ís and non-Bahá’ís reviewed
the work done under the first
two contracts, with special reference
to placing future contracts on a
competitive and lump-sum basis. The
unanimous report of this committee
made to the Temple Trustees at
Green Acre in August, 1937,
recommended that the ornamentation be
continued with the Earley Studio on
the basis of the experience gained
in the development of methods, technique,
materials, etc. under the first
two contracts.
Re-estimating the second or gallery story ornamentation at $125,000.00, the Earley Studio was awarded a cost-plus contract for this work in October, 1937. The faces were finished in November, 1938, and the nine pylons about eight months later. The cost of this work exceeded the estimate only by about $2,800.00.
Meanwhile, to expedite the Temple construction and under the impetus of generous contributions, the Earley Studio was authorized by the Temple Trustees to proceed with the preparation of the models and molds for the main story ornamentation. During the late winter and spring of 1939, the work under these two contracts was carried on in the Studio. With a saving of about $10,000 effected in the making of the molds, the contractor was given permission to proceed with casting of the lower section of the nine main story pylons. This work was continued and the pylons were completed in September, 1940.
The casting and erection of the main story grilles, pilasters, columns, arches, spandrels, cornice and other minor parts, was handled under two principal contracts; first one involving the ornamentation of three faces and second, the work required for the remaining six faces. These two contracts overlapped as to time and construction involved. As the pouring of the concrete and the placing of the casts proceeded from the bases of the faces, the difficulties inherent in the handling of the great arch and spandrel sections and in the setting of the cornice pieces became a major factor in running up the cost of the work above the original estimate.
Other unforeseen and unallowed-for factors in the final cost of the main story ornamentation were the wage overtime for labor, increased costs of materials, higher freight rates and social security and liability insurance. As will be noted in the table, the over–run in construction cost on the main story was about $57,500, or 38 per cent above the original estimate of $150,000.
With Europe becoming engulfed in war and realizing the need for haste in the prosecution of the Temple construction, the Temple Trustees wisely arranged with the contractor for the purchase of reinforcing steel, cement and stone necessary for the building of the 18 circular steps at the base of the Temple. The cement and stone were contracted for and the steel purchased in the summer of 1941.
The original plans of the architect
contemplated pouring the concrete
steps on the ramp of the foundation
structure built in 1922. In 1939, the
Earley Studio prepared sketches and
made a preliminary estimate of
$30,000 for building the steps in
sections suspended from the main floor
platforms. Later studies and the
experience of the Federal government
on monumental buildings in
Washington developed a final design
comprising 917 step sections supported
on carriages built over the girders
that support the sloping deck. In
May, 1941, the Earley Studio was
authorized to proceed with the steps,
and the plans, forms and other
preliminary work, involving an
expenditure of some $9,300, were done at
the Studio. In April, 1942, the preparation
of the reinforcement units for
the step sections was begun at the
Earley plant, and the construction
of the carriages started at the Temple
about the middle of May. The
setting of the step sections was
begun in July and was somewhat
retarded by lack of sufficient reinforcement
units to cast and set all of the
17 sections in one flight at one setup
of the hoist. These reinforcement
units should have been prepared in
the winter of 1940 and the spring of
1941 as directed by the Supervising
Engineer, but at this period the[Page 11]
Earley Studio was running seven
days a week on war contracts for
the War and Navy Departments
and the reinforcing shop was not
available.
The final cost of $50,817.84 for the work involved in the steps contract, while it exceeds the original estimate of $30,000 (made on the basis of a different, much simpler design), is a reasonable cost under conditions at that time, for the work done, involving about 10,000 lineal feet of circular steps, 1,000 square feet of main floor platforms and the faces of the plinths of the nine pylons.
In the early winter of 1940-41, Mr. Earley became ill and was unable to be at the Studio and attend to his business. During the past sixteen months his associate, Mr. B. G. Taylor, has carried the burden of the business under the heavy pressure of wartime conditions. On April 1, 1943, Mr. Taylor collapsed at the Studio and is still (April 22) in the hospital in a serious condition. It will be several months before Mr. Taylor will be able to attend to his duties at the Studio again. Fortunately the exterior ornamentation of the Temple is practically completed. At a conference with Mr. E. Roger Boyle early last January, Mr. Taylor promised Mr. Boyle and your engineer that he would arrange to go to the Temple on order from the Temple Trustees to acid wash the steps and to clean up the work, and at that time would repair the cracks in the bases of the main story pylons, at no cost to the Trustees.
The total construction cost of the ornamentation of the exterior of the Temple is as follows:
Dome and ribs ...............$168,821.97 Clerestory (Drum) ........... 41,984.88 Gallery ..................... 127,782.18 Main Story .................. 207,552.39 Steps ....................... 50,817.84
- ———————————————
- TOTAL ....................$596,959.26
Engineering, travel, office
- and field expenses ......... 13,427.85
- ———————————————
GRAND TOTAL ................$610,387.11
- $8,798.37 of this expense incurred
under contract with The Research Service.
It is desirable to sum up the cost of the building of the Temple from its inception in 1921 to its completion in 1943; these items of expenditures are the following:
Caissons ......................$ 76,350.00
Foundation and equipment........ 120,476.46
Superstructure, utilities, etc. 418,173.31
Exterior ornamentation ........ 610,387.11
Architect’s fees and expenses .. 42,900.00
Centenary banquet and public meeting conducted by the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of New Haven, May 25, 1944.
Temple model and plans.......... 19,246.68
Engineers’ fees and expenses ... 54,396.32
- —————————————
- $1,341,929.88
In a report to the Temple Trustees made in 1929, the writer estimated the total cost of the Temple structure—under conditions at that time— as $1,200,000. The final cost overran this estimate by about 11 per cent.
On the Temple property, in addition to the Temple structure, buildings, garages, grading of the grounds and other improvements have been made at the expenditures of funds as noted below:
Administration building ..........$15,837.95 Caretaker’s house ................ 6,209.46 Supplementary office ............. 5,688.47 Storm enclosure—Temple ........... 571.21 Tunnels, areaways, etc. .......... 10,742.87 Fences ........................... 1,614.86 Grading and seeding grounds ...... 9,444.63
- ——————————————
Total ............................$50.111.45
At the completion of the Earley contracts at the Studio and at the Temple, equipment and materials, which were purchased by the contractor and paid for out of the Temple funds, were on hand with an estimated value of six or seven hundred dollars.
In conclusion, as supervising engineer, the writer wishes to express to the Temple Trustees and through them to the followers of our beloved Faith, his deep appreciation and abiding gratitude for the priceless opportunity of being intimately and actively associated for nearly a quarter of a century with the building of the Temple—one of the most unique and remarkable structures of all time. Looking back over this experience, one glimpses great progress in the science of building construction, new techniques, methods and materials and their utilization in a structure for which there were no precedents. Perhaps it may be surmised that this epoch-making achievement is part of a Divine Plan. Certainly, the workers that were raised up to do this great task were guided, supported and sustained until their work was done.
April 22, 1943
Bahá’í Public Relations[edit]
The Committee on Bahá’í Public
Relations has been making a survey
of its field, and among the constructive
activities the members wish to
perform this year is the occasional
reporting in Bahá’í News of some
of those interesting and significant
expressions of the influence of the
Faith which come to our attention
from time to time. The Committee
does not intend to duplicate the
reports of other Bahá’í bodies which,
like the Radio Committee and the
Bahá’í News Service Committee,
initiate many important public contacts[Page 12]
for the Faith, but rather to deal with
the unexpected and incidental events
concerning the Faith not directly
caused by the believers themselves.
In addition to the presentation of
such matters as news, the Committee
is of course concerned also with
the handling of attacks and
misrepresentations of the Faith appearing
in responsible periodicals or emanating
from responsible platforms, as
well as the presentation of accurate
statements about the Faith to
encyclopedias, yearbooks and other
organs of a factual type.
Last June a request was received from the publishers of the World Book Encyclopedia for revision or its statement about the Cause written many years ago. The material was corrected, amplified and brought up to date, and it is hoped that the next edition will use this corrected statement.
In August we interested a member of the faculty of a College in Chicago in adding the Bahá’í House of Worship of his lecture on the marvels of architecture delivered before public audiences in many cities.
The Travel Bureau of Chicago Motor Club from time to time requests a supply of Temple booklets as it distributes copies to members wishing to know about local points of interest.
Marshall Field and Co., Chicago department store, issues a pamphlet entitled “Home Town Tour,” which advises the reader to visit the Bahá’í Temple.
Universal Atlas Cement Co. of New York some time ago took pictures of the Temple and submitted them to Architectural Record, which published a statement on the Temple in its September number. The Concrete Manufacturer, a section of Pit & Quarry magazine, carried in its September number an article on the work of John J. Earley, including an illustration of the House of Worship. Apparently the Atlas Cement Co. likewise supplied this material to the publication.
The Portland Cement Association of Chicago has prepared an excellent illustrated article on the Temple for its magazine Architectural Concrete, to appear in an early issue.
Redbook Magazine in 1939 carried an article by Hendrik Willem Van Loon, the historian, entitled “Somewhere a Man Is Sitting,” which graphically depicts the need of a man of superhuman power who can reconcile men’s spiritual and physical needs and thereby save the modern world from the fate of Babylon or Ninevah or Thebes. This clear and enlightened point of view can best be contacted through presentation of a copy of the Guardian’s book, God Passes By, and this will be done.
Good–Will Magazine of Cleveland has requested a photograph of the Temple for use as front cover illustration.
During the fall and winter of 1943–1944, many local newspapers published an advertisement to promote the sale of government bonds in which a picture of the Temple was used to illustrate the theme of religious freedom, one of the issues of the war.
The front cover of Wilmette Life and Winnetka Talk for September 21 reproduced the new aerial picture of the House of Worship on their front cover. The same issue of Wilmette Life ran a photograph of a mural painting in a non-Bahá’í home of the village which illustrates Wilmette harbor and the House of Worship.
In the dining room of Hotel Orrington, Evanston, one end or the room has been recently decorated with a mural of Wilmette harbor and the Temple—a beautiful and impressive view which is attracting much favorable comment.
A good friend of the Cause, Mr. Howard S. Ross of Montreal, conducts a department entitled “The Forum” in The Suburban News, a weekly paper published in that city. His column on September 28 contained a very interesting reference to the Centenary celebration.
The Chicago Daily Tribune of August 19 ran a hall–page photograph of the view from the top of the Tribune tower looking north, and the principal structures visible, including the Bahá’í Temple, are marked by name.
In addition to the Bahá’í reports sent to the appropriate national Committees, the Committee on Bahá’í Public Relations would request word of any unusual reference to the Cause, favorable or unfavorable, emanating from non-Bahá’í sources, which might be mentioned in future statements prepared by this Committee.
Temple Guiding May – August, 1944[edit]
Considering the transportation difficulties, it is remarkable that during the first eight months of this year the number of visitors to the Temple, namely, 11,230, was greater than during a similar period of any previous year with the exception of 1936 when the number was 11,267. This period in 1944 exceeded by 1,207 the number taken through the Temple in the same period in 1942, and by 172 in 1943.
During May, visitors numbered 1,414. They came from forty states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, Panama, Alaska, the Canadian provinces of Alberta, Nova Scotia, Quebec and Edmonton, and the countries of Chile, Ecuador, Bolivia, Brazil, Costa Rica and Jamaica.
During June, visitors numbered 1,907. They came from forty states, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Panama, the Canadian provinces of Ontario, British Columbia, Manitoba, and the countries of Argentine, Brazil, Uruguay, England and Poland.
During July, visitors numbered 2,920, the largest number ever taken through the Temple in July. They came from 44 states, the District oi Columbia, the Canadian provinces of Ontario (eight groups) and New Brunswick, and the countries of Bolivia, Peru, Honduras, Dominican Republic, San Salvador, Mexico, Poland, Turkey, France, Switzerland, Persia and China.
During August, visitors numbered 2,654. They came from forty states, the District of Columbia, the Canadian provinces of Ontario, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Quebec and British Columbia, and the countries of Brazil, Colombia, Denmark, England, Australia, China and Persia.
Guides numbering fifty and hosts and hostesses numbering twelve, come from twelve towns, the most distant of which is Milwaukee. About half of these guide once a week or more; the other half only occasionally. Nine guides come from Milwaukee, one of Racine and four from Kenosha, the more distant towns, have guided regularly from one to eight times a month.
The Temple is open to visitors every Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. throughout the year but it will be closed weekdays in October, after cold weather begins.
Spiritual Assembly and Bahá’ís of Lima, Peru,June, 1944. Miss Eve Nicklin, pioneer teacher, holds symbol of Greatest Name. Sra. Isabel de Barreda, representative of the Bahá’í Community who came to Wilmette in July, is at the left, front row, and Miss Virginia Orbison who has been teaching in Lima for some months, is at the right.
One great problem the Guides
Committee has each year is to find
enough guides to take care of the
visitors. This is especially true in
July and August. These are the
months when visitors come in greatest
numbers, and is when we have
the fewest guides, for then is when
most of the guides take their
vacations or visit summer schools.
Consequently, the need is for more
guides, especially during July and
August.
Visitors are increasingly receptive each year. During the first eight months of this year they made many requests for literature, purchasing from the guides literature amounting to more than $570. Other evidence of the value of guide work is the number who joined study classes. This is one of the most important phases of teaching in the Cause, and one of the finest kind of “pioneering,” as people come from all over the world and ask us to tell them about the Cause.
Thirty-Second Annual Commemoration of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá[edit]
The Committee on American Memorial to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá conducted the following program at Evergreen Cabin, West Englewood, N. J., on June 24, 1944—the thirty–second annual gathering held to commemorate the Unity Feast given by the Master in 1912.
Gertrude Simonton ...........Contralto Harriet Morgan Kelsey .........Pianist Lyla Gaudreaux Roberts ....Accompanist
Opening Prayer ...............Carol Kelsey ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s American Tour .......
- ............................. Marzieh Gail
The Master in New York ...............
- ...........................E. Saffa Kinney
Experiences With the Master ..............
- ...........................Ali Kuli–Kahn
Address ....................Dr. Durant
Reading of Address—Given by
- ‘Abdu’l-Bahá at the first “Unity
- Feast”—June 29th, 1912 .................
- ..............................Jessie E. Revell
Closing Prayer— ..........................
- A Persian Chant .........Hormunz Sabet
- William C. Dodge, Chairman
- A Persian Chant .........Hormunz Sabet
Prayers and Meditations ...................
- .........................Mrs. Vaffa Kinney
- .........................Mrs. Maud Gaudreaux
An Informal Fireside Gathering at 8:15 p.m.
Centenary Radio Activities April 1 – June 1, 1944[edit]
These two months marked the greatest progress that the Faith has ever made in this particular method of teaching. It was a triumph for the entire community of the Most Great Name. Eighty-four broadcasts describing the Centennial and its purpose were given from May 12 to May 28. These broadcasts covered Forty-five States and Eight Provinces of Canada; Alaska; Hawaii and Cuba. No report has been received from Puerto Rico, although scripts were sent. We also had requests from Mexico City and Bogota, Columbia, and no doubt these were used also.
On April 28 the first Bahá’í shortwave broadcast ever given was beamed from New York to all of Latin-America through the assistance of the Office of Coordinator of Inter-American affairs.
The following statistics may be of interest to the friends:
Eleven weekly series of broadcasts were given during the year as follows:
Chicago Ill. WCFL
New York City. N.Y.WQXR
San Francisco, Cal.KYA
Los Angeles, Calif.KFOX
Brattleboro, Vt. WKNE (Keane, N.H. Station)
Little Rock, Ark. KARK
Urbana, Ill. (Station not known)
Boise, Idaho KIDO
Greenwood,, Miss. WGRM
Havana, Cuba CMBC and COB
Honolulu, T. H. KGU
The time employed in Centennial broadcasts, if added together, amounts to approximately twenty hours continuous broadcasting time. Conservative statistics would give us a listening audience of approximately ten million people, and this is a very low estimate.
During the actual Centennial at Wilmette, Station WJJD in Chicago carried daily spot announcements of the program. In addition to this, we had four broadcasts in Chicago as follows:
- 1. A forum over WMAQ, with Marzieh
Gail, George O. Latimer and Octavio Illescas participating.
- 2. A reading over WCFL of the
Special Centennial script for this occasion—read by Mark Tobey.
- 3. The regular Tuesday night
broadcast over WCFL, on which Walter Olitzki sang. Walter Olitzki is a Bahá’í and a member of the Metropolitan Opera Company of New York.
- 4. A broadcast direct from the
Banquet held at the Stevens Hotel; with a talk given by Alfred Osborne, delegate from Panama, and short talks by the following:
Sr. Edvardo Gonzales Lopez
- Delegate from Equador
Miss Elsie Austin
- Delegate from District of Columbia.
Dr. Fernando Nova
- Delegate from Brazil
Mr. Firuz Kasemzade
- Guest from Teheran, Persia (now
- a student at Leland Stanford.
Miss Hilda Yen
- Guest from Chungking, China
The guest speaker of the Latin–American evening, Mr. Philip Leonard Green, has offered to make his talk into a recording, with a Bahá’í introduction and conclusion, which he will arrange to have broadcast to Latin America.
It is also noteworthy to report that for the first time a network approached us to submit a script for a nation-wide prayer service to be used on Invasion Day. At the time we were asked to submit this script, the plan was that the day of the invasion was to be a day of prayer and the network was to pick up these prayer programs from various churches throughout the country. It was their purpose to read prayer services submitted by religious organizations. Our scripts were submitted, containing not only prayers for the whole world, but hopeful words of promise from Shoghi Effendi revealing the glorious fixture that should follow this great calamity. We feel that our selections were unique among those offered.
The enthusiastic response of all[Page 14]
the Bahá’ís to this first nation-wide
radio campaign was responsible for
its great success. It remained for
the Radio Committee alone to have
the thrill of receiving telegrams and
letters, pouring in from Assemblies
all over the country and Canada,
advising us of their Centennial broadcast
plans. This Committee feels that
the large amount of work involved
in handling this campaign was amply
repaid by the results. We do not feel
that any nation–wide hook–up
comparable in scope could have been
purchased for even ten thousand dollars.
It is interesting to note that
many of the broadcasts were carried
by local outlets of the three
largest radio chains in the country.
The friends may also be interested
in knowing that the report of the
Centennial was sent out over
Trans-Radio Press to be used by
newscasters and commentators on the
air. Just how much of this material
was used and to what extent we have
no figures available at the present
time. We do know that it was used
on WOR, New York, one of the most
powerful stations in the country, with
a large listening audience.
It is significant that all of this tremendous activity should have taken place in the hundredth year of the Bahá’í Faith and truly ushered us into the Second Century before all of North America. This radio work is a new landmark in public relations. Many of the Assemblies are so encouraged by the response to their Centennial broadcasts that they are planning future radio work. This is the most powerful and cheapest teaching medium now open to us for the Bahá’í Faith and the principles for which it stands. It must, of course, be backed by the efforts of the friends to make Bahá’ís of those interested. It does plow the soil and make it ready for their efforts.
The National Radio Committee would like to express its appreciation to all of the friends for their prompt and efficient cooperation in the conduct of this nation-wide radio campaign.
Inter-America News BOLIVIA[edit]
The members of the La Paz group joyfully welcomed another new member! Flora Hottes expresses their gratitude that this distinguished young woman, Srta. Marin Lijeron has arisen to serve the Cause in Bolivia. “We are very happy and proud of her,” proclaims Flora. “She is our fifth member in La Paz, and is a brilliant young lawyer of this city. She understands and loves the Cause deeply. Srta. Lijeron has a radio program for women and children. John Stearns’ radio booklet was given to her to look over, and already she has used some quotations from Bahá’u’lláh on her programs.” Miss Hottes adds that two other members who accepted the Faith in La Paz are now living in other cities of Bolivia, and a third, the young Peruvian artist, has now returned to her home in Lima.
Many pages of delightful and historic detail record Virginia Orbison’s brief but fortuitous visits to Sucre and Potosi. Glorious opportunities were given her to meet many people of distinction in the fields of industry, of education and the arts.
“In Potosi,” Virginia tells us, “I had the privilege of staying at the Rancho Hochschild, where some of the officials of the great Hochschild Mining Company live. Quick and deep friendships are made in these lands and four men whom I met here were greatly moved by the Faith.”
The gracious courtesy of Don Raul Jaimes Freyre, distinguished man of letters of Bolivia, and the Director of the Museum in Sucre, made it possible for Virginia to meet many of the artists and scientists who are now residents of this colorful mountain city. Like Don Raul Freyre, Virginia found the Director of the School of Fine Arts, Juan Rimsa, noted Lithuanian painter, to be a spiritually mature soul, “wonderfully prepared” for a profound interest in the Message she had brought. A lecture, arranged at the Museum of Virginia, was attended by a stimulating audience of twelve persons of outstanding accomplishments in their varied fields of endeavor. Leaving these newly-illumined friends was a hard task, but with parting gifts of the Bahá’í Writings and hopes of a later return, Virginia left Sucre to fulfill her next assignment in Peru.
CHILE
Another area ardently desired by the Guardian for the establishment of the Faith is the city of Punta Arenas, Magallanes, in the southern tip of Chile. From the first seeds of the Faith, planted by Marcia Steward (Atwater) in this distant section of the Southern Hemisphere, the teaching work continues to expand and to consolidate.
Generous assistance from press and radio has helped to acquaint both residents and visitors in Magellanes with the name and principles of the Cause. Later, informal gatherings and individual interviews were held with interested friends, and a series of lectures was arranged. A study group has now been formed, and with the coming of the Chilean winter, it is believed the present study group would quickly increase in membership.
Marcia writes—“ . . the whole town is permeated with at least the name of our Prophet; the Fact of His Revelation; the fact of the existence of the Bahá’í Faith, and the fact that there are classes! The Cause has been established as dignified, intelligent and non—proselyting.”
There has been a most gratifying demand for books. Marcia found it necessary to translate into Spanish long passages, even whole chapters, from the texts of her English books, until the supply of pamphlets and hooks in Spanish was received from Buenos Aires.
Many visitors from Santiago have heard of the Faith through her lectures and are eager to follow up this Message of a Divinely-conceived world civilization of unity and peace. Marcia continues to carry on the teaching work in Santiago, through weekly correspondence, at the request of the Spiritual Assembly. Thus the spiritual bonds of her pioneer service are being forged in two areas of the country, despite the many intervening miles.
PANAMA
Sr. Gerardo Vega, of Costa Rica, the first Latin-American pioneer teacher, has carried out an intensive teaching campaign, with the enthusiastic support of the Panama Bahá’ís, during the months of his service in this post.
Panama — geographically significant
in its linking unity of great
continents and great oceans—shelters
residents widely diversified in
human capacities and spiritual
qualities. With zeal and warm
understanding Sr. Vega has extended the
scope of the teaching work and
opened new avenues of attraction
for the Faith, “I am very optimistic
for the future of the Cause in this
locality,” Sr. Vega tells us, “even
though there are many obstacles it
is also true that the splendor of[Page 15]
the light shines more brilliantly
wherever the darkness is great.”
Of bright promise toward the achievement of Panama’s great destiny was the recent celebration of Brotherhood Week. For the first time Panama participated in this international observance of fellowship among all peoples. Mr. Alfred Osborne, Secretary of the Panama Bahá’í group, served as a member of the Committee of Arrangements for this eventful week. Julie Regal joyfully writes us that he was Chairman, and one of the four speakers, of a highly successful meeting held in the USO Center and broadcast over the Army radio.
International Bahá’í Youth Day, Julie adds, was celebrated by a festive gathering at Cora Oliver’s apartment. A delightful program of music and brief talk honored this occasion for the young friends and acquaintances who shared in the evening’s hospitality.
CENTRAL AMERICA
Only briefly can we dip into the precious packets of mail from our neighbors in Central America. The Spiritual Assembly of Tegucigalpa, Honduras, joyfully sends the enrollment cards of four new members of their community. With grateful hearts we record each new evidence of growth and rejoice to find, from many lands, the mounting response of Youth to acceptance of Bahá’u’lláh’s call.
GUATEMALA
Mrs. Florence Keemer’s energetic experiment to expand the teaching field with both speed and range, is receiving stimulating confirmations. Widespread interest in the Faith has developed through her offer, by radio and press, to teach English, gratis, to all who wished to learn the language. A deluge of replies rewarded this ingenuity, and presently the courtesy of the school authorities made it possible to use the facilities of the classrooms after the close of the regular sessions.
“I teach over a hundred people every day, without books!”, pens Mrs. Keemer in swift notes. “So you will realize how carefully the lessons must be prepared. I give a new alphabet each day—the ethical one, for example, has all our principles in it. Last night was art and tonight will be technical. Then we talk and recite poetry, both Spanish and English, have grammar and spelling too, and end up singing familiar
Bahá’ís of Guatemala City, Guatemala, May, 1944. Mrs. Gail Woolson, first row center;
Dr. Edilbuto Torres, Bahá’í representative from Guatemala at the centenary and
convention and Sra. Blanca V. Mejia, Bahá’í representative from Nicaragua, at her
left. At her right, Mrs. Louise Caswell, Bahá’í pioneer in Panama, and Mrs. Keemer,
who has been a pioneer teacher in Guatemala and Costa Rica.
old songs together. About half
of the students are teachers, and the
other educators who look in on us
occasionally seem to enjoy it as well.
There are few methods by which one
can reach the real thinking people
as quickly and deeply as by teaching
something they want.”
The acceptance of the Faith by a respected and substantial member of the community, a man who has studied the Teachings with great earnestness, has brought happiness to the Bahá’ís of Guatemala City. The formation of a thriving children’s class, new interest aroused among the older youth, and increasing opportunities to offer the Message of the Faith in the homes of newly-awakened friends, are highlights of progress in Guatemala.
HAVANA
Exhilarating word of new goals achieved comes from Havana, Cuba. Long–cherished hopes for the expansion of the teaching work through radio have become historic realities. Our pioneers, Miss Silver and Miss Kruka, tell us that regular broadcasts of half-hour programs are given twice weekly. Daily announcements of the Bahá’í meetings are also made, and include an invitation to the listeners to attend the study classes and lectures.
In recognition of the historic import of the first radio broadcast, the Havana friends provided a visual record of the occasion. Charming Carmelo Perez was photographed as this first Bahá’í program went on the air. “The Words of Bahá’u’lláh,” these friends’ comments, “have now echoed throughout Havana and the nearby provinces.”
Local Archives Procedure[edit]
The following outline of recommendations on procedure in the collection and preservation of material for local Bahá’í Archives is submitted to local Spiritual Assemblies and groups with the purpose of aiding them in the efficient performance of this significant function.
- 1. Appoint an archivist or an Archives
Committee consisting of members who are interested in the collection and orderly arrangement of local Assembly records.
- 2. The collection of archives material,
should begin as soon as there is one or more Bahá’ís in a locality.
- a. An account should be written
- about the introduction of the
- Cause in the locality.
- a. An account should be written
- b. A list of believers and of visiting
- Bahá’ís should be kept.
- b. A list of believers and of visiting
- c. Be sure that all material is
- dated and that a careful
- record is kept of sources of
- material, such as newspaper
- clippings.
- c. Be sure that all material is
- 3. The following materials should
be collected for the archives:
- a. Bahá’í treasures or relics, with
- the name of the donor and a
- written statement from him
- as to their authenticity. (See
- Bahá’í Procedure, page 19.)
- b. Original Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
- to individuals, groups,
- or to the Assembly. (Keep a
- negative photostat with a
- copy of the translation in the
- local archives, and forward
- the original Tablet and translation
- to the National Archives.)
- b. Original Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
- c. The Guardian’s letters to individuals,
- groups or the Assembly.
- (Keep a negative photostat
- in the local archives,
- and forward original to the
- National Archives.)
- c. The Guardian’s letters to individuals,
- d. Legal documents, including
- copies of marriage license
- records and such other legal
- records as the local Assembly
- may not decide to retain
- in its own custody.
- d. Legal documents, including
- e. Photographs of individuals
- and of Bahá’í gatherings, with
- names and other records of
- interest. If ‘Abdu’l-Bahá visited
- the local community, the
- Archives should contain photographs
- of homes and public places
- visited by Him.
- e. Photographs of individuals
- f. Bahá’í correspondence which
- may be of interest to future
- historians of the Cause.
- f. Bahá’í correspondence which
- g. Newspaper and magazine clippings:
- (1) Announcements of Bahá’í
- meetings and events.
- (1) Announcements of Bahá’í
- (2) Publicity about visiting Bahá’ís.
- (Note: This record
- may be kept by the Publicity
- Committee, but eventually
- should become a
- part of the local archives.)
- (2) Publicity about visiting Bahá’ís.
- h. Copies of programs.
- (1) Public meetings.
- (2) Bahá’í anniversaries.
- h. Copies of programs.
- i. Copies of annual reports of
- committees, unless the Assembly
- preserves these with
- its minutes.
- i. Copies of annual reports of
- j. Records of Bahá’í vital statistics.
- (1) Marriages and births.
- (2) Deaths and cemetery statistics.
- j. Records of Bahá’í vital statistics.
- 4. Make a card index inventory of
all material in the Archives.
- 5. Make a folder for each subject
or individual about which there is material in the Archives. It is a common archives practice to file material under each subject chronologically, and to keep individual collections donated to the archives intact.
- 6. If possible, arrange an exhibit
from time to time. This will encourage the friends to contribute material, will show the work that the Archives Committee is accomplishing, and acquaint new friends with the history of the local community.
- 7. If possible, maintain complete
files of Bahá’í books and pamphlets. Some of the titles in local Bahá’í libraries are certain to be lost, and early editions of Bahá’í literature will no longer be available.
- 8. Keep local a Bahá’í historical record
up–to–date. Such records should be supplemented at least once every two years. A number of local communities, such as Washington, Philadelphia, and New York, have compiled excellent local histories.
To date only twenty Assemblies have sent copies of their local histories to the National Bahá’í Archives. The Committee would appreciate receiving a copy from each Assembly and group.
References to the Cause[edit]
Will the friends be on the lookout for new references to the Bahá’í Faith in non-Bahá’í books and periodicals, and send the same to Bertha H. Kirkpatrick, Olivet, Mich.? These are in Bahá’í World, volume X. Please give name of publication, author, publisher and date of publication and page or pages on which reference occurs. Publicity in newspapers is not included. If the article is by a Bahá’í, please so state.
Bahá’í News Service[edit]
The work of the Bahá’í News Service will be greatly facilitated if you will send two copies of all publicity to the secretary, Virginia A. Russell, 2622 Prairie Avenue, Evanston, Illinois at regular intervals. All publicity regarding the Centennial Celebration should have been turned over to the Bahá’í News Service by this time.
Supplementary Report National Spiritual Assembly 1943-1944[edit]
The spiritual life of the American Bahá’ís has been greatly enriched by the Guardian’s gift of the lock of hair and the portrait of His Holiness the Báb. “I hope to forward,” Shoghi Effendi wrote on April 14, 1943, “in time for the solemn thanksgiving service to be held in the auditorium of the Temple on the evening of May 22, at the hour of His epoch-making Declaration, a sacred portrait of the Báb, the only copy ever sent out from the Holy Land, to be unveiled at the dedication ceremony and to repose for all time, together with Bahá’u’lláh’s blessed hair within the dome of the Holy Edifice within the heart of the North American continent.” In a previous letter dated March 28, 1943, the Guardian outlined the details of the Centenary celebration, and included these words: “In honor of this unique occasion the Guardian hopes to send a copy of the portrait of the Báb and some of His relics to be displayed for the first time to the assembled believers in the auditorium of the Temple on that memorable evening, after which they should be placed in a sale spot within the Temple together with the hair of Bahá’u’lláh previously presented to the American believers. Under no circumstances should the portrait of the Báb be left exposed or hung on the wall of the Temple, nor should any copy of it be made. Only on very rare occasions should it be displayed, and whenever shown should be in no other place except the Foundntlon Hall of the Temple. Its display in the auditorium is permitted only for this occasion. No such portrait is to be found anywhere in the Bahá’í world—with the exception of Haifa—nor is the Guardian contemplating sending any copy at present to any other Bahá’í community. This indicates the importance he attaches to the Temple in America, which he feels is a befitting edifice to enshrine it. The utmost vigilance should be exercised that no copy be made of it in the future, or any attempts be. made to reproduce it in any way.”
On June 24, 1943, the Guardian
mailed from Haifa through Mr. Maxwell
an envelop containing a locket
with hair of the Báb. This was not
received. On March 14, 1944 a
message came which explained the
reason. “The first envelope containing[Page 17]
locket with hair was returned after
meeting with an accident. Though
the accompanying letter was half-burnt,
the hair is intact. I rejoice in
the providential escape and safe
arrival. Inform friends.”
The locket and hair, however, were mailed again on February 11, 1944, and this time safely received. The details of the providential recovery of this precious relic have been given us by Mr. William Sutherland Maxwell in a letter dated March 14 last.
“The thrill of finally receiving the precious Hair relic is not to be compared with what was experienced here. On June 24, 1943 I mailed you a registered letter and it contained the Hair of the Báb inside a small locket. After waiting a long time to hear from you about its arrival, it was decided to have the Post Office registration department trace the matter and report. A lengthy printed document was filled in by me and it was forwarded to Jerusalem by the Postal authorities. Later I received a letter from the Postmaster General encloses my last letter to you. The envelop was badly burnt, parts of the address being missing, but the registration number was intact (enough information remained to enable the Postal authorities to notify me of its reception—but apparently the regulations require the sender to take the initiative).
“With care the letter was opened and safely ensconced therein was the little silver locket (which is modern) containing the Hair of the Báb.”
“You can imagine the joy and satisfaction experienced by Shoghi Effendi, Ruhiyyih Khanum and by me, on recovering this precious relic.”
“Now the locket and its contents have arrived in Wilmette, and in the Temple Archives one of the most precious and rare Bahá’í relics is safely ensconced in its appropriate setting.”
“It appears that the airplane was brought down in flames and we have no detailed account of the happening, or about the fate of the pilot to whose skill and bravery we owe the deepest gratitude.
“The second voyage of the Hair of the Báb was uneventful from the viewpoint of transportation and your cable about its arrival brought peace and happiness.
As the Bahá’í delegates and guests will observe when the portrait and hair are exhibited at the appropriate time during the Centenary, Mr. Maxwell has designed a most beautiful frame for the portrait and setting for the hair, and his designs have been executed by craftsmen of Chicago under the direction of a special Committee appointed by the National Spiritual Assembly.
Another blessing intended for us by the Guardian is his book entitled “God Passes By,” a survey of the first Bahá’í Century. It is a matter of keen regret that printed copies are not yet available, though the manuscript has been turned over to the printer in the form of successive chapters since January, the final installment having been turned over on April 8. The Foreword and the first two chapters, however, with the Guardian’s kind consent, have been published separately in World Order Magazine for March, April and May of this Centenary year.
From the Table of Contents we learn about the structure of this unique work. It opens with the Guardian’s Foreword, which summarizes the events of the first Bahá’í Century, explains the significance of the Faith, and defines the purpose and scope of his book. This is followed by an Introduction written by Dr. George Townshend and signed by him with his title and rank in the Church of England.
Chapters one to five present the Mission of the Báb and cover the first period of Bahá’í history, 1844 to 1853.
Chapters six to thirteen summarize the Ministry of Bahá’u’lláh, the second historical period extending from 1853 to 1892.
The third period represents the Ministry of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, and chapters fourteen to twenty–one outline its principal events and meanings from 1892 to 1921.
Chapters twenty–two to twenty–five explain the Rise and Development of the Administrative Order, die fourth period, from 1922 to 1944, and the work concludes with a chapter entitled Retrospect and Prospect.
What Shoghi Effendi has given us in this volume is a new dimension of spiritual truth—an authentic history of a revealed religion throughout its first hundred years of action upon human existence. In no previous cycle has this was accomplished: a presentation of the Figure of the Manifestation and of His disciples and His Exemplar and Interpreter created by one so spiritually endowed that he can turn back to the Person and the sacred Events and give them actual reproduction at a later time.
By virtue of the Guardian’s power to experience the history of the Faith as a living and vital present force and not merely a past event, the days of the Báb and the days of Bahá’u’lláh live for us again. We can in this book behold once more the episode of the Declaration of the Báb, His imprisonment and His execution, the sufferings inflicted upon Bahá’u’lláh, His exile from land to land and eventual incarceration in ’Akká; and the moving record of the Master’s services by which the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh was firmly planted in East and West. A clear light is thrown upon all the significant episodes and events—the revelation of Bahá’u’lláh’s principal works and an analysis of His essential teachings; the rise and fall of the great betrayers and deniers of God’s Holy Cause; and the forces which transferred the power of action in the Bahá’í community from Persia to America.
The Guardian’s unique function as Interpreter of the Bahá’í Sacred Writings has here been realized as capacity to interpret not only the Word but its effect upon persons in one time and place. Thanks to this book the Bahá’ís have the infinite privilege of living within a fully unified world—the world of spirit and the world of humanity acted upon by divine forces for a divinely ordained end.
In recent weeks the National Spiritual Assembly has received many letters on the subject of the new method of election of Convention delegates. It will clarify many questions if we explain that before adopting any definite method for the holding of state and provincial elections— elections in new administrative areas possessing no administrative bodies capable of action for the state or province as a whole—we submitted a number of points to the Guardian.
On July 7, 1943, the Assembly wrote Shoghi Effendi as follows on this subject:
“After consideration of the new State and Provincial basis of the election of Convention delegates, the Assembly voted to approve seven points for submission to you for your approval and whatever further information you wish to provide. These points are:”
- “1. The National Spiritual Assembly
is responsible for these elections.”
- “2. Local Assembles are not to[Page 18]
be employed as a basis for the State or Provincial organization.
- “3. The National Spiritual Assembly
should appoint the presiding officer and call the election, designating the time and place; the believers present then elects their Chairman and Secretary, and the Chairman appoints the tellers. A certified report of the election is sent to the National Spiritual Assembly. Absent voters are to vote by mail. It is suggested that this election meeting be combined with a public teaching meeting if Possible.”
- “4. Ballots and voting list to be
prepared by the National Spiritual Assembly.”
- “5. The N.S.A. pays the cost of a
meeting place; the local Bahá’í center to be used where possible.”
- “6. The Assembly understands that
under the system of proportionate representation, a State or Province having less than nine believers will be entitled to representation by a delegate. That is, unless otherwise directed, the Assembly will include in the voting arrangements any State or Province which may have no local Assembly at the time the election is called.”
The Guardian’s reply, dated November 16, 1943, approved these points as follows:
“Regarding the seven points submitted to the Guardian in connection with the new basis of the election of Convention delegates. He approves the action taken by your Assembly, but wishes to stress the importance of reminding the believers that they should make every possible effort to attend the meeting for the election of the State or Province delegates, in order to stimulate a larger group consciousness which will greatly facilitate the process of the believers becoming acquainted with each other, and provide an intermediary stage—which will become increasingly valuable and necessary—between the local organization, represented by the group or Assembly, and national collective action, represented by the activities of the Convention and the institution of the National Assembly.”
The calling of the elections, therefore, and the simple procedure laid down in the call, represented an action of the National Spiritual Assembly in the fulfillment of a responsibility which could not be delegated to any existing administrative body nor carried out in consultation with the body of the believers resident in each State or Province. Whether, once the believers have assembled in these units and elected officers for the election meeting, they themselves were qualified to create a continuous administrative body for that new, intermediary stage, was a question which can only be answered by the Guardian. The appointment of temporary chairmen was, for the first election at least, a necessary action since the believers themselves possess no administrative agency between the Assemblies or groups and the Convention and the N.S.A.
As result of the Guardian’s change of the electoral unit from city to state, we are this year attending a Bahá’í Convention, which for the first time is composed of delegates representing the entire American Bahá’í Community. Every believer is henceforth a voting member of the Bahá’í community. But the Guardian has not only extended the electorate from local communities to state and provincial communities— he has stabilized the principle of proportionate representation. For while the number of delegates remains the same from year to year, the number of local communities has increased rapidly during the Seven Year Plan, and in future there will be thousands of Spiritual Assemblies. The number of States and Provinces, however, is presumably constant, and hence the number of delegates can be fairly apportioned to the number of believers within these larger political units, whereas to continue electing delegates from towns and cities would make the application of the principle of proportionate representation impossible in a brief time.
It is likewise the first Convention having representatives from the Bahá’í communities of Central and South America and the Islands of the Caribbean area—an All–America Convention in session during the Centenary period.
The Guardian’s messages to the Convention have been reproduced, and copies will be distributed to all the delegates and Bahá’í guests. “Hail with glad, grateful heart the historic assembly of the elected representatives of the followers of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh throughout the Western Hemisphere participating in the first All–America Convention gathered in the vicinity of the first Bahá’í Center of the Western World beneath the dome of the first Mashriqu’l-Adhkár to commemorate alike the Anniversary of the founding of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh and the Birth of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the Anniversary of its establishment in the Occident and to celebrate the completion of the exterior ornamentation of the most hallowed House of Worship in the entire Bahá’í World” his message begins.
Copies of the Centenary program are also available for all the friends. The Centenary Committee has prepared a series of meetings which with dignity and spiritual force can express our joyous devotion and consecration to His Holiness the Báb, whose Declaration one hundred years ago was the First Point of the appearance of the Will of God for the new and universal Cycle of Bahá’u’lláh.
536 Sheridan Road, Wilmette May 19, 1944
Manager for Green Acre[edit]
The Green Acre Trustees wish to request applications from Bahá’ís for the position of manager of the School dormitory and dining room on the basis of training and experience. The trustees will consider carefully all such applications, which should include details concerning the applicant’s qualifications. Address: Secretary, Green Acre Trustees, 536 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, Ill. Appointment of manager for the 1945 summer season is to be made as soon as possible.
Race Unity at Green Acre[edit]
The annual Race Unity conference at Green Acre, August 11 to 13, 1944, had its usual exhilaration, diffusion of knowledge and confirmation. Dr. Genevieve Coy, chairman, made unity the subject of her address. This she said to be a basic human desire. Rarely is one happy at the thought of being left out. The ambition to exert power on the one hand and fear of it on the other may bring conflict. Such is true of various aspects of power, such as economic, political, military or social. Thoughts influence feelings, and those of fear, hatred and anger cause disunity. A loving and wise attitude toward minority groups is to see no differences. Do not adversely generalize about a minority because of the conduct of a few members of it.
Dr. Sarah Martin Eason of Washington,
D.C., spoke on the Oneness
of Humanity. The thoughtful are
becoming more aware of this as the
negligibility of racial differences as
a sign of ability appears. Men are
now looking the world over for sincerity
and love to be the foundation
stones of a workable religion. Cultural
varieties are a benefit. Blended
ideals of culture play a vital part in
human progress. Fraternity based
upon love should be the objective.
Human solidarity, promulgated by
‘Abdu’l-Bahá is hailed as a blessing.
At the next session Mrs. Terah Smith of Atlanta, Georgia, told of progress in race relations in the vast section of the South. The Interracial Commission, organized after the former world war to help returning soldiers, has now been enlarged into the Southern Regional Council, going farther than the former organization in that it contemplates unity on a spiritual basis. It recognizes not only a sectional and national but a world need. New publications such as “The South Today,” “Common Ground,” and the addresses of Pearl Buck are much in demand and are shaping thought. These are signs of advancement to the goal set by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Who said that in this century all the potentialities latent in man will be revealed.
Matthew W. Bullock of Boston described in graphic terms the poignant disappointment of those like himself, who went abroad during the former world war, inspired by the hope that so great an upheaval would bring justice and peace to mankind. The promised relief appeared neither in religious nor secular circles; rather, class tyranny was strengthened and prejudices were increased, On every hand was heard the lament that religion had failed. He shared with us his appearance as a seeker after truth in the Bahá’í Faith and his great joy in the discovery that on this day God has given us a plan; moreover, that all is going according to the Divine Plan!
Mrs. Mildred Mottahedeh, chairman of the Sunday morning session, observed that bars of iron too strong to be broken, can yet be melted by fire. It does not help difficult conditions to complain. It is better to work. The Bahá’í plans work not for one day, but for every day. The seals of the Holy Books are now open and wonders of life and light are coming into view. Christ never said. “Suffer the white people to come unto me,” but made welcome all colors. All the Prophets bring universal gifts. Man has in many ways failed; but progress and wisdom may come through past failures. The brotherhood of mankind is now the great objective. The dynamic for this is found in the Bahá’í Teachings. They will gain acceptance. The white race, considering world interests and values, is now but a minority group.
Louis G. Gregory spoke on Lights and Shadows on the Inner and Outer Plane. Both, whether objective or subjective, can be observed in individuals, groups and mankind in the aggregate. The value of light is obvious, whether solar, optical, scientific or spiritual. Lights that outwardly appear to have their correspondences upon the inner plane and all such phases of the same reality have a direct bearing upon human progress and happiness. Both the Earth and Heavens are rich in wonderful treasures, but none can discover them without light. The word Bahá means Light. “The nearer you are to the Light, the farther removed from the darkness,” says ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. “O Son of the Wondrous Vision!” expresses the gift of Bahá’u’lláh to His faithful and loyal followers, indicating their capacity under guidance to aid mankind. All are but parts of one great Whole. The mingling of races increases fertility, cleverness and beauty.
Harlan F. Ober, chairman of the forum, stated that the problem in America is among whites, Negroes, Jews, Indians and with the various peoples of the South and Central American countries. While the Bahá’ís have held amity conferences in many cities over a wide area, outsiders have viewed such efforts as remote and academic theories about matters which could not be controlled. Now such matters have become realistic to all and demand solution. Humanity’s problems are interrelated. Those pertaining to race, education, industry and religion cannot be separated. A great opportunity is that of America, a new nation, to carry out to a greater extent than others, the oneness of mankind.
Miss Lydia J. Martin hailed with delight the new order envisioned by Bahá’u’lláh and saw traces of its progress indicated by old age pensions, slums removed and a kindliness and neighborliness transcending racial lines. Such signs point to a great awakening. The call of the universal shepherd must be universally proclaimed so as to overcome the barbarous practices which keep men apart.
Ali Kuli-Khan, N. D. told interesting stories about noted men of color that he had met, among them Robert Turner, the first American Negro to become a Bahá’í. The speaker strongly advocated justice for all mankind. No earthly power can resist the might of God. It is He Who commands unity and points the way. As the temple of Solomon was built from materials brought from many lands, so must the present day edifice of divine civilization cultivate the talents of all races and nations to bring world happiness and peace.
Other contributors to the forum, consultations were Mrs. Joy Earl, who told a beautiful symbolic story; Dr. E. Ellis Durrant, distinguished churchman, who acknowledged the oneness of the spirit of the Christ and Bahá’u’lláh; Frank Ashton, who read a Tablet of the Master, showing how thought of war may be overcome by a greater thought of peace; and George D. Miller, who observed that we abandon our skins when we start for Heaven; therefore justice must be here established upon a more durable basis. The chairman exhorted all to dwell together in love and unity.
The musical part of the program was rich and varied, consisting of Negro spirituals and other strains. Among the contributors were Mesdames Evelyn Loveday and Joy Earl, Misses Ida B. Noyes, Lydia J. Martin, and Elsie Norton. The harmony and beauty of all the conference were the causes of happiness to the friends and an attraction to inquirers.
Bahá’í Directory[edit]
The following changes are reported:
1. Local Assemblies: Montreal — Mrs. Priscilla Waugh, Secretary, 11408 Laval Road, Cartierville, Montreal 9, Quebec, Canada.
Syracuse—Mrs. Lena Bevan, Corresponding Secretary, 3566 Genesee Street, Syracuse, N.Y.
Greenville—Mrs. Luda Dabrowski, Acting Secretary, 19 W. Earle Street, Greenville, South Carolina.
Salt Lake City — Mrs. Eleanor Beckman, 347 East Broadway, Salt Lake City, Utah.
Alexandria—Mrs. Paul E. Haney, Secretary, 3234 Gunston Road, Alexandria, Virginia.
Boston—the Bahá’í Center is at 25 Huntington Avenue, not 26, as incorrectly reported in the Directory.
Milwaukee — Mrs. Claire Fricke, Corresponding Secretary, 4704 W. Lloyd Street, Milwaukee, Wisc.
2. National and Regional Committees: Child Education Committee—New address for Chairman, Janet Lindstrom, 1308 Asbury Street, Evanston, Ill.
Inter-America Committee—Edwin W. Mattoon added.
College Speakers Bureau—new address for Chairman, Wm. Kenneth Christian, 700 East 5th Street, Greenville, N.C.
The believers are requested to report any changes in the Directory as soon as possible.
Assembly Address[edit]
Local Assemblies are requested to register the address of their center or meeting place with any agency in the city which, like the Chamber of Commerce, the USO, etc., maintains a directory of public meetings or of religious organizations. Assemblies which have no public center may register the Bahá’í Assembly in care of a designated officer or member. A Bahá’í telephone address is very important.
In Memoriam[edit]
I testify, O my Lord, that Thou hast enjoined upon men to honor their guest, and he that hath ascended unto Thee hath verily reached Thee and attained Thy Presence. Deal with him then according to Thy grace and bounty!
Mrs. Renee Fooks, Montclair, New Jersey.
Mrs. C. Lawrence, Los Angeles.
Mr. William F. Lucus, Los Angeles.
Miss Henrietta C. Cosh, New Rochelle,
- New York.
Mrs. Kate Muzzy, Binghamton, New
- York.
Mr. Joseph Scanes, Toledo.
Dr. Luther R. Johnson, Akron.
Mrs. Gertrude E. Zollinger, Toledo.
Mrs. Daisy Ashenfelter, Toledo.
Mrs. Ella Federcell. Maui, T.H.
Miss Elizabeth Slappy, St. Augustine.
Mr. Edward Bass, Spokane.
Mrs. Gertrude H. Weeks, Portland,
- Maine.
Mrs. Helen Lielnors, New York.
Mrs. Jennie Russell, Chicago.
Mr. Henry J. Ackerman, Newark.
Mrs. Maye Worthington, Fort Wayne,
- Indiana.
Miss Sarah A. Blocker, St. Augustine.
Mrs. Clementina Goodrich, Milwaukee.
Miss Anna Krogius, Augusta.
Miss Helen Grand, Toronto.
Mrs. Lillian Bauer, Brooklyn.
Mrs. Mary Frazer, Nunica, Michigan.
Mrs. Nettie Tobin, Chicago.
Mr. J. L. Gibson, Pacific Palisades,
- California.
Mrs. Robert Fairlee, Vancouver.
Mr. Gustave Bagge, Cleveland.
Mr. Raymond B. Gillesbie, Chicago.
Mrs. Nell B. Moister, San Antonio.
Mrs. Alice Broadhurst, Maui, T. H.
Miss Cora A. Watson, Cincinnati.
Mr. Albert Ammon, Haworth, New
- Jersey.
Mrs. Annie Linfoot, Piedmont, California.
Mr. William F. Kyle, Los Angeles.
Mr. Alexander Mapp, Avon, Massachusetts.
Mrs. Robert Sully, Buffalo.
Mrs. Gertrude Muffler, Serena, Illinois.
Mr. B. M. Nance, San Bernardino, California.
Mrs. Judson M. Saunders, New Haven.
Mrs. Belle Ware, Kirkland, Washington.
Mrs. Frank J. Phelps, Catonsville, Maryland.
Mrs. Arthur L. Held, Berkley, Michigan.
Mrs. Anne B. Walker, Salem, Massachusetts.
Sr. Elias Calderon, San Jose, Costa
- Rica.
Mr. Aaron Blau, Philadelphia.
Mrs. Agnes Blodgett Rowe, Spokane.
Mrs. Mary McKee, Brooklyn.
Mrs. Ruth Brandt. Pasadena.
Mr. Frederick A. Clapp, Los Angeles.
Mr. B. W. Schneider, Richmond Highlands,
- Washington.
Mrs. Rose N. Steinecke, St. Louis County,
- Missouri.
Mrs. Alma Raymond, Toledo.
Mr. Charles E. Wilkes, Urbana, Ohio.
Mr. Edgar H. Libby, Los Angeles.
Mr. Charles N. Mortensen, Chicago.
Mrs. Lucy B. Swindler, R. D. Magnolia,
- Illinois.
Mr. John Aducat, R. D. Marlton, New Jersey.
Enrollments and Transfers[edit]
1. Reported by Local Assemblies
Birmingham, one.
East Phoenix Rural, two.
Phoenix, two.
Little Rock, two and two transfers.
Alhambra, two transfers.
Berkeley, two.
Beverly Hills, three and one transfer.
Burbank, two.
Glendale, one transfer.
Los Angeles, seven and seven transfers.
Oakland, one and one transfer.
Pasadena, two and one transfer.
Sacramento, two and tour transfers.
San Diego, one.
San Francisco, ten and one youth.
Edmonton, one and two transfers and
- one youth.
Vancouver, two.
Winnipeg, one.
Halifax, one and one transfer.
Toronto, two and one transfer.
Montreal, two.
Regina, two.
Denver, eleven and one transfer.
Washington, D.C., six and seven
- transfers and one youth.
Jacksonville, one and one transfer.
Miami, one and two transfer.
St. Augustine, one.
Atlanta, one.
Honolulu, two youth.
Chicago, eighteen and five transfers and
- three youth.
Evanston, one.
Springfield, Ill, one.
Peoria, four and two transfers.
Urbana, one.
Wilmette, one and two transfers.
Fort Wayne, one.
Indianapolis, one transfer.
South Bend, two.
Topeka, one transfer and one youth.
Louisville, two transfer.
New Orleans, three.
Eliot, one.
Baltimore, three and one transfer and
- one youth.
Bethseda-Chevy Chase, one and one
- youth.
Boston, one.
Brookline, one.
Springfield, Mass., one and one transfer.
Worcester, one.
Detroit, one.
Flint, six and one youth.
Grand Rapids, three.
Muskegon, one.
Minneapolis, two.
Jackson, Miss., five.
Kansas City, Mo., three.
St. Louis, two.
Helena, two youth.
Omaha, one.
Reno, three.
East Orange, two.
Albuquerque, two and one youth.
Buffalo, one transfer.
Geneva, two youth.
New York, eighteen and nine transfers
- and two youth.
Syracuse, three transfers.
Greensboro, one and two transfers.
Fargo, two.
Cincinnati, one.
Cleveland, one.
Columbus, one and one transfer.
Dayton, two.
East Cleveland, two.
Lima, four.
Toledo, one.
Portland, Ore., three and two transfers.
Philadelphia, one and one transfer.
West Chester. Pa., one.
San Juan. P. R., one.
Providence, one.
Sioux Falls, four and three transfers and
- two youth.
Houston, eight.
Salt Lake City, two transfers.
Brattleboro, one.
Richmond Highlands, three.
Seattle, two and one transfer.
Spokane, one.
Tacoma, one.
Kenosha, one.
Madison, one.
Milwaukee, two and three transfers.
Racine, one and two transfers.
Shorewood, two.
Wauwatosa, one.
Laramie, one.
2. Reported by Regional Teaching Committees
In July, ten and four youth; in August, nine and two youth; in September, nine and two youth.
