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| BAHÁ’Í |  |
NEWS |
| No. 219 | MAY, 1949 | YEAR 106 | BAHA’I ERA |
The Guardian’s Message to The Forty-first Annual Bahá’í Convention 1949[edit]
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Desire share with attendants at Forty-first American Bahá’í Convention feelings of joyous gratitude evoked by the steady acceleration of the dual process of expansion and consolidation of the Bahá’í World Community as well as the perspicuous evidences of divine protection vouchsafed the World Center of the Faith during the course of the third year of the second Seven Year Plan. The number of countries included within the pale of the Faith is ninety-four. Languages into which Bahá’í literature is translated, and Assemblies, local and national, incorporated, now total fifty-six and one hundred five, respectively. Bahá’í literature now being translated into fourteen additional languages. The number of centers in Latin America is one hundred and nine. The fourth objective of the present Plan has been achieved four years ahead of schedule through the formation of a Spiritual Assembly in each of the ten goal countries on the European continent. Centers established in these countries total thirty-one, newly enrolled native believers, one hundred fifty-four. Nearly a million dollar drive to complete the Mother Temple of the West has been auspiciously launched and construction of interior sections of the ornamentation initiated. Number of settlements in Greenland provided with Bahá’í scriptures raised to forty-eight, including Thule, beyond the Arctic Circle and Etah near eightieth latitude. Number of American States, Territories and Federal Districts recognizing Bahá’í marriage raised to eighteen. Restoration of the newly acquired German national Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds at Frankfurt has been commenced. Formulation of five year plans for German and Egyptian National Assemblies, culminating at the Centenary of the Birth of Bahá’u’lláh’s prophetic Mission, completes the number of National Assemblies pledged to achieve within appointed time specified goals in five Continents. The European Teaching Conference convened at Geneva inaugurating series of annual gatherings designed to consolidate the tremendously significant transatlantic project. Bahá’í observers accredited by United Nations participated in Conference on Human Rights, Geneva; United Nations General Assembly, Paris. Bahá’í representative attended Luxembourg general conference world movement for world federation. First all-red Indian Assembly consolidated at Macy, Nebraska. Building operations on Arcade of Báb’s Sepulchre commenced forty years after official interment of His remains by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Prolonged hostilities ravaging Holy Land providentially terminated. Bahá’í Holy Places, unlike those belonging to other faiths, miraculously safeguarded. Perils no less grave than those which threatened the World Center of the Faith under ‘Abdu’l-Hamíd and Jamál Pasha and through Hitler’s intended capture of the Near East, averted. Independent sovereign State within confines of Holy Land established and recognized, marking termination of twenty century-long provincial status. Formal assurance of the protection of Bahá’í holy sites and continuation of Bahá’í pilgrimage given by Prime Minister of newly emerged State. Official invitation extended by its government on the historic occasion of the opening of the State’s first parliament. Official record of Bahá’í marriage endorsed, Bahá’í endowments exempted by responsible authorities of the same State. Best wishes for the future welfare of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh conveyed in writing by the newly-elected Head of the State in reply to congratulatory message addressed him upon assumption of his office. Appeal entire community, through assembled delegates, in thankful (Continued on page 2)
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Convention Cablegram to Guardian, Thursday, April 28, 1949 This gathering, in solemn convention, turns with profound love to our Beloved Guardian in this fateful hour. Offer heartfelt thanks for expressions of encouragement. Pledge rededication, unremitting zeal in successful consummation all objectives. Endeavor generate awareness of individual and collective responsibility. Implore continuing prayers for our greater obedience, unwavering devotion and sustaining grace. FORTY FIRST ANNUAL BAHÁ’Í CONVENTION
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Annual Election Election of nine members of the National Spiritual Assembly, April 29, 1949, and eleven names of believers who followed in votes cast. 1. National Spiritual Assembly | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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recognition of the manifold blessings vouchsafed the Faith and in response
to the alert sounded for the present emergency, to arise and demonstrate
more conspicuously than ever before, through greater austerity at home
and increasing audacity in foreign fields, both in Latin America and Europe,
their grim determination at whatever cost, no matter how crucial the test,
however long the period, however herculean the labor, to carry forward
unremittingly their task to its triumphant conclusion.
Cablegram received April 25, 1949
First Things First[edit]
Since within a few months the Guardian vitally changed our points of concentration in the present Seven Year Plan, the NSA urges the believers to review the successive messages from Haifa. If you will begin by rereading the Guardian’s message entitled “The Citadel” (either the pamphlet form or in Bahá’í News for last December), you will see how he has been preparing us for special and concerted sacrifice.
Then came the following messages:
“Approve committing community amounts proposed for 1949 and 1950 in your letter of November 11th. Urgent curtail if necessary expenditure on Public Relations, National Programming and Radio during the next two years. Ardently praying solution problem, removal of difficulties. attainment high objectives.”
Cablegram received Nov. 25, 1948
“Welcome preliminary contracts
Temple, determination ensure completion. Advise drastic reduction appropriation activities except budgets Latin America, European campaign if maximum sum Temple exceeded. Praying removal difficulties, continual divine guidance, wise conduct manifold activities Faith. Deepest love.”
Cablegram received Dec. 10, 1948
“Further drastic reduction budget next two years including temporary suspension Public Relations, National Programming, radio activities, World Order, Bahá’í World publications permissible if necessary.”
Cablegram received Dec. 22, 1948
“As he has just cabled you, he feels
the rapid completion of the Temple
interior is the most pressing financial
obligation of the American believers,
and practically every other activity—except European and Latin American
teaching—can be legitimately sacrificed to it during the coming years.
He hopes, of course, that very drastic
sacrifices of other work will not be
necessary, but if they do, your Assembly should not hesitate to make
them.”
In a letter to the NSA through his secretary, dated Dec. 22, 1948.
Early in January the NSA was able to send the Guardian the final construction figures, with a series of possible construction schedules. And this was his reply:
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Programmer’s Corner The Radiant Future: “The flames which His Divine Justice have kindled cleanse an unregenerate humanity, and fuse its discordant, its warring elements as no other agency can cleanse or fuse them. It is not only a retributory and destructive fire, but a disciplinary and creative process, whose aim is the salvation, through unification, of the entire planet .....” SHOGHI EFFENDI,
Selected Writings, p. 45 HINTS FOR ACTION: Summer will bring more leisure for some. Why not profit by the opportunity to “deepen” and to prepare yourself for teaching? Suggested Summer Studies for deepening and teacher preparation: GROUP I
GROUP II
*One page outline of questions supplied on request. As there is no committee budget, please enclose a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Address: Mrs. Myrtle Wendler, Sec’y
—NATIONAL PROGRAMMING COMMITTEE
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“Advise plan two. Urge however maintain permanent entrance ways, vestibules and metal doors. Also permanent rubber tile or terazzo floor. Considering soaring prices, shortness period, weighty issues involved, approve still more drastic reduction budget complete suspension during two years appropriations activities unconnected European project, Latin American work, Assembly consolidation United States.”
Cablegram received Jan. 13, 1949
“Budgets activities Europe, Latin America, consolidation work in United States should not be reduced owing to their vital relation to Second Seven Year Plan. All other activities, whether connected with proclamation of Faith, publications Bahá’í Magazine, Bahá’í World or Schools, should either be drastically curtailed or suspended during two years. Holding Annual Convention and maintenance of Bahá’í News essential.”
Cablegram received Jan. 19, 1949
“Advise divert contributions for International Fund to Temple Fund and suspend World Order magazine.”
Cablegram received Feb. 26, 1949
“Advise suspend magazine next two years. Appeal on my behalf to subscribers in East and West to devote their subscription fee to Temple Fund. Owing to present emergency such action would be highly meritorious.”
Cablegram received Feb. 28, 1949
On March 16 came the long cable which warned the American believers “to steel themselves without delay to face an unexpected emergency, seize a God-given opportunity, meet a supreme challenge, and show forth a tenacity of purpose, a solidarity in sacrifice, an austerity in everyday life, worthy the Martyr-Prophet of their Faith as well as their heroic spiritual forebears ...”
All this is the immediate background for the message of the Guardian to the 1949 Convention. Read that message again.
Temple Construction Begins[edit]
The Temple Trustees have been informed by the architect and the general contractor that construction work on the Temple site inside the structure will begin sometime during the month of May. A considerable amount of drilling and cutting of existing concrete will be necessary to prepare for the installation of the ornamentation of the main piers and columns and for the placement of the heating and ventilating system, and this work will get under way before the end of May.
A contract has been awarded to the Earley Studio for the fabrication of the interior ornamentation. After completion of working drawings, the Trustees sought competitive bids on this phase of the work, and the Earley Studio submitted a final bid approximately $12,000 lower than the nearest competitor. Actually the margin was even greater than that figure indicates, since the other bid was for fabrication of the interior sections in ornamental plaster, a material greatly inferior to the Earley stone.
The contract with the Earley Studio for the ornamental tracery provides that if the actual cost of this work should be less than the guaranteed bid price, any such savings are to be divided equally between the Temple Trustees and the Earley Studio.
Under the terms of the contract for the ornamental work, the Earley Studio will deliver the ornamental sections to the general contractor, the George A. Fuller Company, at the Earley plant in Rosslyn, Virginia. The Fuller Company will then be responsible for the transportation of these sections to the Temple site, and for the actual erection of the ornamental sections.
The work of preparation of shop drawings at the Earley Studio and the making of the necessary molds for the main piers and columns has been completed, and fabrication of these sections will begin early in May. The first shipment of finished ornamental work will be made from the Earley Studio on or before July 1, 1949, and the setting of this stonework in the interior probably will begin before the end of July or early in August.
Following are the nine sentences chosen by Shoghi Effendi for use in the Temple interior:
Architect’s sketch of section of Temple interior as prepared for newspaper release
- “All the prophets of God proclaim the same faith.”
- “Religion is a radiant light and an impregnable stronghold.”
- “Ye are the fruits of one tree and the leaves of one branch.”
- “So powerful is unity’s light that it can illumine the whole earth.”
- “Consort with the followers of all religions with friendliness.”
- “O Son of Being! Thou art My lamp and My light is in thee.”
- “O Son of Being! Walk in My statutes for love of Me.”
- “Thy Paradise is My love; thy heavenly home reunion with Me.”
- “The light of a good character surpasseth the light of the sun.”
A New Spirit of Nationwide Teaching[edit]
Beloved friends:
- 1. The Exigencies of This Hour
The exigencies of this hour are very, very great. The tasks to which we are committed by the Guardian of the Faith would be overwhelming were we not as Bahá’ís assured that Shoghi Effendi has measured our capacity, weighed our devotion, and assigned tasks which by sacrifice we are well able to achieve.
Now let us consider: the very exigencies which call for an unprecedented budget likewise call for a new spirit of nationwide teaching. Our tasks are vital in the light of the supreme crisis overtaking mankind; and that very crisis proves and demonstrates that the Divine teachings alone provide the remedy and inspire a new life.
Let us consider further: when these goals are attained—when Central and South America have raised up new pillars to support the future House of Justice; when in ten countries of Western Europe ardent and vigorous Bahá’í communities reflect the light of the Holy Spirit to multitudes who walk in darkness, bereft of love of God; and when the House of Worship, completed with interior ornamentation and furnishings exquisite in design, uniquely impressive in effect, and holy in their function and purpose, throws open its doors to all who wish to worship the God of all mankind—then, and only then, will the great mass of the people, and their capable and influential leaders, be seized with urgency to heed the Message of the New Day.
- 2. How Shall We Prepare?
How shall we grasp with firm assurance the challenging opportunity to proclaim the Faith which crisis produces now? How shall we prepare ourselves individually and collectively to teach when the masses, stirred and troubled, beat against the gates of heaven, imploring to God?
By a new spirit of teaching breathed into the whole Bahá’í community—deep as the soul of man, strong with the strength of unity, wise with the knowledge of the Teachings entrusted to our care.
Consider too: the same crisis which plows so deeply the cold and barren earth chilled and fruitless in the lingering winter of the world’s unbelief—this same crisis deprives us now, today and for two years to come, of those very instruments which during the years we have slowly and laboriously constructed to organize our own study of the sacred literature and to proclaim its verities to our fellowmen. The hour of supreme opportunity is the hour of supreme need. Therefore we must find ways to study without schools, and to teach without a public magazine, and to contact without advertising, and to gather people together without formal public meetings sustained by the National Fund.
- 3. The Guardian’s Message
Recall the Guardian’s stirring words in the Messages to America: “Called into being through the operation of the will of the Center of Bahá’u’lláh’s Covenant ... this repeatedly blessed, much envied community deserves to be acclaimed the Torchbearer of the civilization, the foundations of which the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh is destined unassailably to establish in the course of the Second Bahá’í Century.” (May 15, 1944)
“No less urgent is the obligation to proclaim the verities enshrined in the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh by every means which individuals, Assemblies and committees can devise ...” (December 24, 1944)
“This Is My Message”
Words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá For a New Spirit of Teaching The time has arrived for the world of humanity to hoist the standard of the oneness of the human world, so that solidarity and unity may bind together all the nations of the world, so that dogmatic formulas and superstitions may end, so that the essential reality underlying all the religions founded by the Prophets may be revealed. That reality is one. It is the love of God, the progress of the world, the oneness of humanity. That reality is the bond which can unite all the human race. That reality is the attainment of the benefits of the Most Great Peace, the discarding of warfare. That reality is progressiveness, the undertaking of the colossal tasks in life, the oneness of public opinion. Therefore strive, O ye people! and put forth your efforts, that this reality may overcome the lesser forces in life, that this king of reality may alone rule all humanity. Thus may the world of mankind be reformed. Thus may a new springtime be ushered in and a fresh spirit may resuscitate mankind. The individuals of humanity, like refreshed plants, will put forth leaves and blossoms and fruit, so that the face of the earth will become the long promised and delectable paradise, so that the great bestowal, the supreme virtues of man, will glisten over the face of the earth. Then shall the world of existence have attained maturity. This is My message. The Bahá’í Peace Program (1930), page 5
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“A more audacious assertion of the challenging verities of the Faith; a more convincing presentation of its distinguishing truths; a fuller exposition of the character, the aims and the achievements of its rising Administrative system as the nucleus and pattern of its future world-embracing order ... a more determined effort to exploit, to the fullest extent possible, the talents and abilities of the rank and file of the believers for achieving these ends ...” March 29, 1945
“The hour is ripe for the proclamation, without fear, without reserve, and without hesitation, and on a scale never as yet attempted, of the One Message that can alone extricate humanity from the morass into which it is steadily sinking, and from which they who claim to be the followers of the Most Great Name can and will eventually rescue it.” (March 29, 1945)
“... an intensification of effort is imperatively required aiming at a bolder proclamation of the verities of a God-given Faith ... and, above all, at a more convincing revelation of Bahá’í love, unity, solidarity and self-sacrifice...” August 10, 1945
“... Bolder proclamation of the
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Faith to the masses.” (April 25, 1946)
“... His even more specific tribute to the Great Republic of the West which He proclaims to be ‘worthy of being the first to build the Tabernacle of the Most Great Peace and proclaim the oneness of mankind’ ” ... June 15, 1946)
- 4. Prayer for the Teacher
To those who seek to “insure the victory of the cause of God,” Bahá’u’lláh wrote that they would “fall down upon the ground, and exclaim:
“O Thou Who art the Lord of Lords! I testify that Thou art the Lord of all creation, and the Educator of all beings, visible and invisible. I bear witness that Thy power hath encompassed the entire universe, and that the hosts of earth can never dismay Thee, nor can the dominion of all peoples and nations deter Thee from executing Thy purpose. I confess that Thou hast no desire except the regeneration of the whole world, and the salvation of all them that dwell therein.” (Gleanings, 243)
Here, then, is the new spirit of teaching. This new spirit and the actions it inspires are the balance American Bahá’ís imperatively need for their unprecedented national budget. It is the other wing—and both wings are essential to raise us above the level of the earthly habits to which we cling.
- 5. A National Responsibility
Bahá’í teaching cannot be delegated nor professionalized. It has been made the life of the quickened soul and the animating spirit and preserver of the local and national community. The virtue of any method or material employed arises from its source in a unified body of believers, and its endorsement by a National or local Assembly acting as one mind and one will.
Today, like the early Christians, we face the world with no weapons except His Revelation. Perhaps this very condition gives deeper meaning to our exigencies and signalizes the beginning of the purest, most moving proclamation of the Faith we have ever made.
- 6. The Voice of Bahá’u’lláh
“A new life is, in this age, stirring within all the peoples of the earth,” Bahá’u’lláh revealed, “and yet none hath discovered its cause or perceived its motive.” “The Prophets and Messenger of God have been sent down for the sole purpose of guiding mankind to the straight Path of Truth. The purpose underlying their revelation hath been to educate all men, that they may, at the hour of death, ascend, in the utmost purity and sanctity and with absolute detachment, to the throne of the Most High.”
“The well-being of mankind, its peace and security, are unattainable unless and until its unity is firmly established. This unity can never be achieved so long as the counsels which the Pen of the Most High hath revealed are suffered to pass unheeded.
“Through the power of the words He hath uttered the whole of the human race can be illumined with the light of unity, and the remembrance of His Name is able to set on fire the hearts of all men, and burn away the veils that intervene between them and His glory.”
From such passages a new and radiant spirit of teaching can and must be born in all our hearts. May we pray that like a luminous Angel it will be revealed to the whole American Bahá’í community. Then, and only then, can the genius which lies in true faith see our teaching problem as a whole, preserve it in its integrity, and find the most effective ways by which to penetrate the veils of prejudice and indifference preventing leaders and masses alike from recognizing the Glory of God.
Youth Plan Circuit Teaching[edit]
- (From National Bahá’í Youth Bulletin of America)
“We know the value of circuit teaching in a town where there are not enough Bahá’í Youth to do that sort of thing successfully alone. Since we know how important this is, it is up to us to put it into effect.
“In these groups of four youths, and perhaps a fifth to supply transportation, not every youth has to be a speaker. In making youth contacts it may be just as valuable to be able to dance, swim, sing, play a musical instrument, or just plain act friendly ... let them see us as a perfectly normal bunch of kids with the same kind of hobbies and interests as theirs, and then they may be interested in knowing about the one additional thing that interests us so especially strongly: the Bahá’í Faith.
“A Negro youth in a circuit teaching group is a practical example in Bahá’í principles. The same would of course apply to anyone who has come from any kind of minority group, racial or religious. Since we want to be able to reach as broad an age group as possible, younger youth will be needed on these teams ... A trip like this can be as much fun as any vacation ... a chance to learn about the Faith as well as teach it.”
Mrs. Amelia Collins, far right, standing, and Mrs. Stevison, second from left, standing, with some American Indian Bahá’ís.
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Mr. and Mrs. Edward Bode sailed Mar. 24, 1949 as pioneers to Amsterdam, Holland.
Naw-Ruz in Europe[edit]
Beautiful letters have been received by the European Teaching Committee from the Goal Countries of Europe concerning their celebration of the Naw-Rúz Feast. Lack of space prevents us from quoting from all of them, but in order to give the believers here at home something of the wonderful spirit prevailing in these new Communities, we quote the following excerpts from three reports.
From Belgium: “Everyone who was present on the Feast of Naw-Rúz in our Centre will remember that memorable day. Some 53 people were gathered in the most joyous atmosphere of joy and fraternity... The devotional and spiritual part was covered with Bahá’í lecture, talks (short ones, 10 minutes) by several members of the Community. ... Some readings of Sacred Tablets impressed very much all those who were present. After, it was announced that a certain lady wanted to declare herself, and she arose with joy and light and said, ‘Yes, it is for me a great privilege to enter the Bahá’í Confraternity. Thank you.’ The emotion was great.”
From Holland: “We decided to have a very simple dinner for the Bahá’ís and their friends... Almost every Bahá’í invited one, two, three or more guests. We were 32 people, and had the dinner in a large room next to the Center, in the same building. Jetty spoke a short friendly welcome, telling them about the Bahá’í New Year and the Divine Spring Time. After the dinner she recited a Dutch poem, and one of our contacts, a lovely young woman, sang, or rather said with guitar, some songs and poems. She is a very well known radio singer and has a wonderful angelic, pure voice and very spiritual serious songs. The table was beautifully decorated (by us) with white, blue and pink hyacinths, tulips and narcissus, and the spirit was wonderful... This was really the first entertaining we did, and it created a lot of good will for us.”
From Norway: “A guest list was prepared by the friends, and invitations were sent out by the Secretary to thirty non-Bahá’í friends ... We had 24 acceptances, and with the Bahá’ís present, we were 37 gathered together for Naw-Rúz. The rooms were beautiful with blood-red tulips and golden narcissus, the gifts of some of our guests.
“The program began with beautiful sacred music played by Tordis Lindeman. The Feast Chairman ... addressed the gathering in Norwegian, bidding them welcome in the name of the Community.
“The Feast Committee had asked the American believers to be on the program, and immediately after the Chairman’s talk, I explained the Bahá’í Calendar and made a short talk on the meaning of Naw-Rúz ... George followed with the reading of a Naw-Rúz greeting written by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to a believer. The program closed by Elinor reading the ‘Prayer for all Nations’ ...
“The Feast Committee took charge of serving tea and cakes, and Such a feast!
“Everyone was carried away on the wings of fellowship, and the expressions of love and appreciation made, as goodbyes were said, were more than enough to compensate for moments of discouragement...”
“The Community received a number of Naw-Rúz greetings from the Bahá’ís in Europe, and several cablegrams... These were shared with the Bahá’ís and guests, and as every greeting except the cables carried quotations from the Bahá’í Writings, we were able to emphasize the significance of the Naw-Rúz.”
All of this is especially thrilling when we remember that on March 21st of last year there was not one single organized Community in any of our Goal Countries. Therefore, the Naw-Rúz Feast of this year is their very first such celebration.
Publishing Announcements[edit]
Bahá’í Prayers. A new prayer book of 120 pages, printed on India paper, has just come from the printer. The chief work of selecting these prayers was done by the late Bertha Hyde Kirkpatrick; it was her last major service to the Faith.
Designed to serve the daily needs of the individual Bahá’í, small enough to be carried easily, the contents are grouped under the following heads: Dawn, Morning, Evening, Praise and Gratitude, Obligatory Prayers, Forgiveness, Spiritual Growth, Unity, Tests and Difficulties, Protection, Healing, Tablet of Aḥmad, Tablets of Visitation, All Mankind, America, House of Worship, Meetings, Spiritual Assembly, Teaching, The Divine Plan (all of these prayers included), Marriage, Children, The Fast, Intercalary Days, Naw-Rúz, For the Dead. Bound attractively in blue leather. Price: $1.25.
World Order Magazine[edit]
Last year we ran out of issues for May 1948 and August 1948 and we had constant requests for them; so many that we decided we must reprint a quantity of those issues. We announce the fact that they are now in stock. The May issue included the statement prepared by request of the United Nations Committee organizing the Human Rights Conference at Geneva, Switzerland, May 19-20, 1948. “The Work of Bahá’ís in Promotion of Human Rights.” An article by Stanwood Cobb “Beauty and Art in the Bahá’í World” was often asked for.
In August were many good articles and apparently many friends were desirous of having copies, some for one article and some for another.
We have stock of most of the issues of World Order and shall be glad to fill orders from the friends. Date does not change value of the contents and they are all invaluable for teaching work.
The Bahá’í World Vol. IV[edit]
This volume, bound in black by direction of the Guardian, forever recalls the passing of the Greatest Holy Leaf. It records the years 1930-1932.
The frontispiece reproduces in color the Appreciation of the Faith written in her own hand and signed by Dowager Queen Marie of
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Rumania. In addition there are 115
half-tone illustrations selected from
his collection of photographs by the
Guardian. The Bahá’í World Center
is impressed upon believers throughout the world by views of the Holy
Tomb of Bahá’u’lláh, the Mansion,
the Tomb of the Báb, Bahjí, the
Garden of Riḍván near ‘Akká, and
of the Room occupied by Bahá’u’lláh on the upper floor of the barracks in ‘Akká.
We note also the Genealogy of the Báb, and the Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds in ‘Avashiq, first Bahá’í edifice erected in ‘Iráq, map showing travels of the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh. Here too is the first appearance of Louhelen School in a picture of the Eggleston farm near Flint, Mich.
In Part One we come upon the Martyrdom of the Báb, from Nabíl’s Narrative; in Part Two many important legal and official documents, including those giving further developments in the case of Bahá’u’lláh’s House at Baghdád, appealed to the League of Nations for the Guardian by Mountfort Mills. Among the contributors to articles in Part Four are some non-Bahá’ís — President Bayard Dodge, Dr. Edmond Privat, General Piola Caselli, Dr. Herbert A. Miller.
To grasp the international Bahá’í community in its steady evolution, and to share in the history of the early days of the Faith, acquaintance with this and other volumes has become essential.
Copies of Vol. IV can still be obtained from the Publishing Committee, at $2.50 each.
Special Publicity Releases[edit]
Bahá’í Public Relations has prepared two publicity releases which have special interest for all local communities.
First—the story of the building of the facade for the Shrine of the Báb on Mount Carmel, the Guardian’s own great project, from the most interesting account written by Mr. Weeden and recently published in Bahá’í News. The Shrine of the Báb will throughout this cycle protect and preserve the remains, and symbolize the Mission, of the Martyr-Prophet who ended the Dispensations of the past and prepared the way for the Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh.
Second—a release on the Temple interior ornamentation featuring the perspective drawing prepared by the architect at the request of the Temple Trustees for the Public Relations Committee. This release, with photograph of the drawing, is being sent direct to about fifty metropolitan papers which have facilities for production of half-tone illustrations. Accompanied by a mat, the release goes to local Assemblies in smaller cities. The committee believes that the impressive beauty of the sketch, and the fact that contracts exceeding $800,000 have already been placed, assures a wide and favorable response by the press.
In communities which have not yet secured any considerable interest on the part of the editor for Bahá’í news, the committee suggests that in presenting the Temple release the editor be shown a copy of the recent stories on the Temple published in The Chicago Daily Tribune and the Chicago Daily News. Reproductions of both these stories can be obtained from the committee at fifty copies of each for 75c, 100 copies for $1.50, etc.
It is gratifying to call attention to page 129 of Coronet Magazine for April, where in a featured article on “The Answer to the ‘Negro Problem’ ” the author pays tribute to our fellow-believer, Mathew Bullock.
Address correspondence to the committee at 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Ill.
“The Only Source of Joy and Consolation”[edit]
“We have all our petty material obstacles in this life. We cannot totally get rid of them. The best thing to do, after all our efforts have failed to deliver us, is to concentrate on that which can alone bring real happiness and peace to our heart. And
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Schedules
Meetings of National Spiritual
Assembly, State Conventions,
and National Convention NSA Meetings 1949
1950
State Conventions
January 29, 1950 National Convention
April 27, 28, 29, 30, 1950 |
you should be thankful to God for having enabled you to recognize and accept His Faith. For this is, assuredly, the only source of joy and consolation you can have in your moments of suffering. Is there anything more worthwhile to work for than the teaching of the Message?”
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Where can you find pictures of the room in which Professor Browne interviewed Bahá’u’lláh? Where was the Book of Aqdas revealed? Where is the text of the
resolution presented to President Franklin D. Roosevelt by the N.S.A.? When were Bahá’í teachings first broadcast over the radio from Iceland? |
—From a letter from Shoghi Effendi through his secretary to Mrs. Kathleen Hall dated Oct. 4, 1937.
The Child’s Way[edit]
Mrs. Amy Dwelly, Librarian and distributor of The Child’s Way announces a new address: 247 Academy St., Jersey City 6, N. J.
The friends are requested not to send stamps for subscription remittances.
She also reports that there is a limited number of copies of No. 4; Nos. 1 and 3 are gone but No. 2 can be sent along with No. 4 at no additional cost to new subscribers. There are also quite a few of the story sheets on hand.
Latin American News[edit]
The time has come again for the Inter-America Committee to ponder the reappointment of national and territorial committees throughout Latin America and it draws to our attention how immensely more developed these are than a year ago. Besides, the increasing responsibilities which they have steadily assumed, and their management of the Congresses of Säo Paulo and Guatemala especially, have made the body of the Latin believers clearly realize that by degrees the Inter-America Committee is constantly yielding to them more and more of its supervision of the Cause in Latin America.
This trend has been reflected, particularly since the Congresses, in a decrease both in volume of mail received by the Inter-America Committee and in the amount of our clerical work. Accordingly, with the new administrative year we are discontinuing the services of a full-time secretary and instead we will divide our work among various of our committee members who will perform it during their spare hours.
Now to report on the latest developments in Latin America. After seven arduous, continuous years of service there, Eve Nicklin is planning to return soon to the United States. However, en route from her present post in Punta Arenas, at the extreme southern tip of Chile, she will spend several weeks in Lima, Peru, whose Community she founded.
Recently, Louise Caswell left Panama to spend six weeks in Haiti, stopping a few days in Jamaica on the way.
Cuba has recently enjoyed visits from several Bahá’ís of this country — Mrs. Ruth Moffett, Mrs. Mary Magdalen Wilkin, and Mrs. Carolyn Dary. Mrs. Moffett and Mrs. Wilkin gave several lectures at the Havana Center and in private homes, and the latter also went, accompanied by some of the friends, to speak to a study group in Matanzas. Besides Cuba, Mrs. Dary also visited the Bahá’ís in the Dominican Republic and Jamaica, who were delighted with her stay.
Captain Henry Jarvis, who has served the Faith so notably in Europe, is stationed now in Jamaica. From here he will be able to make occasional trips to Panama in connection with his work. At the Naw-Rúz feast celebrated in Panama City, Captain Jarvis contributed to the program by being the speaker.
During her recent stay of ten days in Panama, Mrs. Amelia Collins was elated with the progress which she observed the Faith had made there since her previous visit three years ago. The friends are working zealously and have wonderful plans for the coming months.
Another highlight of Mrs. Collins’ trip was seeing the Monument to May Maxwell in Quilmes Cemetery just outside Buenos Aires and ascertaining how exquisitely the sculptor had executed this precious work. The beauty and charm of this sacred spot, she says, induce the visitor to linger and pray and meditate.
Around the Bahá’í World[edit]
GERMANY (Geneva News Bulletin)
“One of the Berlin Believers has written to tell us how happy they were to have Mother Deistelhorst back with them. “She has again given us a wonderful talk” ... She herself writes fully of the struggle they have to sustain in order to get through their everyday life. “Many many thanks for the clothing parcels! We distribute these, and sell the garments that fit none of us, then with the proceeds we pay rent for our public meetings room”. The electric current in Berlin is given only from 1 till 2 a.m., so the public meetings have to be held in the dark. But ...” “The speaker has a candle! We are happy to have even this possibility.” Regarding clothing parcels she says: “Especially needed is men’s wear. Things have been patched and re-patched till they no longer hold together. Socks are a crying need. Never mind if they are in shreds! We shall patch and mend them and make new ones out of pieces.”
The NSA of Germany has been able to print the first issue of their Bahá’í News. The “Hidden Words” have been translated into German, and included in a 126 page volume of Bahá’í Prayers. This meets a very great need. Their Five-Year Plan has been worked out in detail up to 1953.
NORWAY (Geneva News Bulletin)
Showing how the Temple teaches already in far distant lands, the story is told of a young Norwegian who returned from the U.S. after two years of study in Chicago, and gave a lecture with colored slides in which was included pictures of the Bahá’í Temple, and spoke at length of this beautiful building. The secretary of the Bahá’ís, Mrs. Mildred Clark, located him by phone. He was delighted to find Bahá’ís in Oslo and asked for a meeting. More slides were given him, plus a Temple pamphlet. At his next lecture he used all the pictures and had informed himself so efficiently about the Temple that his Bahá’í talk was the outstanding part of the program. He informed the audience that there were Bahá’ís in Oslo with a Spiritual Assembly and an active teaching program. He announced the weekly classes, the public meetings, giving the place of meeting of both, and gave the telephone letter for any further information.
AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND (Bahá’í News Bulletin)
A lecture to the Woollongong Rotarians by Dr. Jack Bean, entitled “Full-Filling Australia”, dealt with Australia’s population problems and her obligations and humanitarian responsibilities towards refugee immigrants. In the final section of his address, Dr. Bean stressed “the need for an intense inner realization of the oneness of all life of a basic binding unity amid infinite outer diversities.” “All this, however,” he went on, “needs a fundamental reorientation towards life, a complete change of heart and outlook. In our present dawnbreak of a New Era, three great rivers of influence from Eastern sources are rapidly bringing about this change. He spoke then of the Theosophical Movements and of Krishnamurti, and then concluded:
In Memoriam[edit]
- Mr. T. J. Groger, San Francisco—3-28-49
- Mr. Henry Turner, Macy, Nebr.—3-19-49
- Mr. Thomas Emerson Procter, Topsfield, Mass.—3-21-49
- Mrs. Lois A. Gorham, Boston, Mass.—4-6-49
- Mr. Walter Whittaker, Berkeley, Calif.—4-18-49
- Mr. J. B. Richardson, Chicago, Ill.—4-26-49
[Page 9]
“The other, the Persian Prophet
and Statesman, titled, Bahá’u’lláh,
‘The Glory of Allah’ has been far
the greatest Teacher and Educator
and Peace Bringer and Unifier of all,
for our present Era, I am convinced.
EGYPT AND SUDAN (From NSA of Bahá’ís of Egypt and Sudan)
The first year’s program of the Five-Year Plan has been fulfilled. This includes the establishment of four new Bahá’í centers in four different districts of Egypt. All Bahá’ís in Egypt responded with zeal to the call of our Beloved Guardian to “arise as one man fulfill objectives.” In the Sudan the aim is the establishment of a Spiritual Assembly in Port Sudan and three Bahá’í centers in Atbara, Obaid, and Wadi-Madani. The Cause is spreading well in Egypt and there are many inquirers. Efforts to acquire burial grounds in Port Said and Alexandria are becoming more successful. There is still some difficulty in printing Bahá’í literature in Egypt, due to martial law which is still in force.
BRITISH ISLES (Bahá’í Journal)
“This year’s Convention, to be held in Manchester ... presents great opportunities. It comes in the middle of the Six Year Plan’s Final Phase, whose opening marked “the closing of a stage of tremendous historic significance ... in the spiritual history of the British Isles.” At this Convention we stand in mid-stream; a year of the only too brief period available for the completion of the Final Phase has passed; next year the ultimate goals of the Plan must be achieved. Now is the time to take stock of the progress so far made, the methods used, our triumphs and failures, now is the time to lay our plans for the coming year in which victory must be made certain.”
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Bahá’í Addresses
National Office:
Treasurer’s Office:
Make Checks Payable to:
“National Bahá’í Treasurer” Bahá’í Publishing Committee:
Bahá’í News Editorial Office:
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“Thirty-eight delegates instead of the former 18 will be called together. All nine of the local assemblies established by the Initial Phase of the Plan will be represented ...”
JAPAN (From a letter from Barbara Davenport ... Nov. 28, 1948)
“Thought you might be interested in the small experiences that Davy has written about thus far, on his arrival in Japan ... one of his tests (after serving five years in the air corps) was to ask for non-combatant duty. So this confirmation was of interest to the friends, he writes.... We were interviewed at the Headquarters of the 5th A.F. I was near the end of the day’s interviews, most of the men asked for Rescue Squadron assignments, (the best outfit) and none of them got it. Before my interview, I said the “Remover of Difficulties,” entered and asked for a non-combatant assignment on the basis of my Faith. It was without delay and easy, my assignment was to Rescue Squadron flights, with administration work for all pilots of R.S. ... I miss the Bahá’ís very much, already, you never realize until you are away from their loving spirit, how much it means to our everyday living.... I have tried to get Robert Imagire on the telephone, his number is in the Tokyo telephone book, but he is always out, will contact him to-morrow. I chatted with Mrs. Stallings, and will see her when she returns from Yokahama.... After a dreadful time locating the telephone building (in Tokyo) I can readily understand the need for the International language ... it is most difficult when two people speak a different language, it is one thing to understand a universal need ... another to have experience in that need.”
CANADA (Canadian Bahá’í News)
“The first six months of our new and independent existence have been memorable ones. Three twenty-two year old Toronto Bahá’ís, young in the Faith too, volunteered to pioneer to Charlottetown, and have now arrived there.... Twenty-six new believers have been enrolled so far with many reported to be on the fringes. (November) ... The Canadian Temple Fund has been started.” “The Toronto secretary writes ‘for the purpose of unearthing hidden and in some cases unexpected talent in the field of public speaking, a prepared talk of five minutes duration is to be given at Feasts by the members in alphabetical order and without benefit of notes’.”
Contributions from Assemblies for the Month of March, 1949[edit]
Alaska— Anchorage. Arizona—North Phoenix, Phoenix, Tucson. Arkansas—Eureka Springs, Little Rock. California—Alhambra, Arcadia, Beverly Hills, Burbank, Burlingame, Carmel, Geyserville, El Monte Twp., Escondido Twp., Fresno, Glendale, Inglewood, Long Beach, Los Angeles, Oceanside, Sacramento, San Diego, San Francisco, San Marino, Santa Barbara, South Gate. Colorado—Colorado Springs, Denver. Connecticut—New Haven. Delaware—Wilmington.
Dist. of Columbia—Washington. Florida—Jacksonville, Miami. Georgia—Atlanta. Hawaii—Honolulu. Idaho—Ada County, Boise. Illinois—Batavia, Champaign, Chicago, Danville, Elmhurst, Evanston, Maywood, Oak Park, Peoria, Springfield, Urbana, Wilmette, Winnetka. Indiana—Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, South Bend. Iowa—Cedar Rapids, Waterloo. Kansas—Topeka. Kentucky—Louisville. Louisiana—New Orleans. Maine—Eliot, Portland. Maryland—Baltimore.
Massachusetts—Beverly, Boston, Brookline, Springfield, Worcester. Michigan—Ann Arbor, Davison Twp., Dearborn Twp., Detroit, Flint, Grand Rapids, Grosse Pointe Farms, Kalamazoo, Lansing, Muskegon, Roseville. Minnesota—Duluth, Minneapolis, St. Paul. Mississippi—Jackson. Missouri—Independence, Kansas City, St. Louis. Montana—Butte. Nebraska—Omaha. New Hampshire—Portsmouth. New Jersey—Bergenfield, Dumont, East Orange, Jersey City, Red Bank, Newark, Teaneck. New Mexico—Albuquerque, Albuquerque N. 10. New York—Binghamton, Buffalo, Geneva, Jamestown, New York, Rochester, Syracuse, Waterloo, Yonkers. North Carolina—Greensboro. North Dakota—Fargo.
Ohio—Cincinnati, Cleveland, E. Cleveland, Dayton, Columbus, Lima, Mansfield, Toledo. Oklahoma—Oklahoma City. Oregon—Portland. Pennsylvania—Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Scranton, West Chester. Rhode Island—Providence. South Carolina—Columbia, Greenville. South Dakota—Sioux Falls. Tennessee—Memphis. Texas—Dallas, Houston, San Antonio. Utah—Salt Lake City. Vermont—Brattleboro. Virginia—Alexandria, Arlington. Washington—Kirkland, Marysville, Monroe, Richmond Highlands, Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma. West Virginia—Charleston. Wisconsin—Kenosha, Racine, Madison, Milwaukee, Shorewood, Somers Twp., Wauwatosa, Whitefish Bay. Wyoming—Laramie.
Total number of assemblies | 179 |
Assemblies contributing—March | 150 |
Assemblies not contributing—March | 29 |
Individuals contributing—March | 718 |
Groups Contributing—March | 52 |
Special Contributions:
- Bahá’í Community of Havana, Cuba
- N.S.A. of Australia and New Zealand
| Score to Date — April 23, 1949 on Response to the Temple Fund | |||
| Group | Number | Estimated for 2 years | |
| $400 | 109 | ................... | $ 87,200.00 |
| $100 | 271 | ................... | $ 54,200.00 |
| $ 25 | 235 | ................... | $ 11,750.00 |
| *Special | 507 | ................... | $144,956.50 |
| _________ | |||
| Totals | 1122 | ................... | $298,106.50 |
| Received against above resolves | $ 86,777.95 | ||
| *All resolves not falling in other three categories. | |||
Annual Reports, Cont’d.[edit]
PUBLISHING[edit]
Clara R. Wood, Manager
New Publications
‘Abdu’l-Bahá the Center of the Covenant by Juliet Thompson, reprinted from World Order Magazine, March 1942. An attractive pamphlet, 28 pages with stiff cover.
How To Be And How Not To Be, A Spiritual Assembly’s Growing Pains. A one act play by Ruhíyyíh Khánum. Mimeographed, 19 pages.
Reading List for Study of the Covenant compiled by Mrs. Mary P. Stebbins. Mimeographed, 4 pages. (2 editions)
What Modern Man Must Know About Religion a compilation made by the Public Relations Committee. Mimeographed, 29 pages. (3 editions)
Outline to Accompany What Modern Man Must Know About Religion. Mimeographed, 5 pages. (2 editions)
The Fireside Teaching Method manual prepared by the Study Aids Committee. Mimeographed, 11 pages.
Index to Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Volumes I, II and III.
Index to Kitáb-i-Íqán.
Index to God Passes By.
Twenty-Five Years of the Guardianship by Ruhíyyíh Khánum. 28 pages, colored cover.
Four new compilations pamphlet size:
- God is Man’s Goal
- Man: the Supreme Talisman
- Human Relations for World Unity
- The Religion of World Unity
8 pages of text and colored cover.
Questions the World is Asking five small four page leaflets, sold in sets of five. Each leaflet asks a question of general interest.
Man One Family, excerpts from Race and Man. 8 pages with attractive cover in color.
Religious Education for a Peaceful Society, pamphlet prepared by Public Relations Committee. 24 pages, paper cover with all-over Temple design.
A Bahá’í Child’s Song Book, Verses by Roberta K. Christian, Music by Eugene Babcock. Illustrations by E. Butler McHenry. A book of songs for the small child. Attractive blue board cover with illustration of the Temple.
Your Experience as a Bahá’í, developed at the direction of the N.S.A. to help new believers, an invaluable addition to Bahá’í literature. 12 pages blue cover.
The Covenant outline prepared by the Study Aids Committee. Mimeographed, 28 pages. (2 editions)
Security for a Failing World by Stanwood Cobb. A condensation of his book in pamphlet form. 16 pages self cover.
Bahá’í Calendar 1949. Civil calendar with Bahá’í Feast Days and Anniversaries.
Books, Pamphlets and Outlines Reprinted.
- A Pattern for Future Society
- Introduction to the Bahá’í Teachings
- Communion with God
- Bahá’í Prayers
- America’s Spiritual Mission
- Hidden Words of Bahá’u’lláh, fabrikoid and paper
- Seven Valleys and Four Valleys, fabrikoid and paper
- Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era, fabrikoid and paper
- An Aid to the Study of the Administrative Order of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh
- A Bahá’í Child’s A.B.C.
- The Advent of Divine Justice, paper
- Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh
- Manual of Suggestions for Organizing a Bahá’í Children’s Hour
- Prophecy Fulfilled
- Course of Study based on Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era
- Faith for Freedom
- Selections from the Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Books Purchased for Re-Sale
- Character by Stanwood Cobb
- Portals to Freedom by Howard C. Ives
- Commentary of the Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá by David Hofman
- El Gran Annuncio, Spanish
- Bahá’í Answers by Olivia Kelsey
Work in Process
- The Brilliant Proof, new mimeographed edition containing all salient passages.
- Bahá’í Prayers, new compilation.
- Story Supplement for God Passes By.
- Bahá’í World Volume X.
Enrollments[edit]
Enrollments reported by
Local Spiritual Assemblies:
San Antonio, Texas, 1; Chicago, Ill., 3; Minneapolis, Minn., 5; Tucson, Ariz., 2; Los Angeles, Calif., 2; Grand Rapids, Mich., 3; Albuquerque, N.M., 1; New York City, N.Y., 3; Greenwich, Conn., 1; Brattleboro, Vt., 5; Portland, Me., 1; Boise, Idaho, 1; Buffalo, N.Y., 1; Palo Alto, Calif., 1; South Gate, Calif., 2; San Francisco, Calif., 1; St. Augustine, Fla., 2; Milwaukee, Wis., 3; Oceanside, Calif., 1; Birmingham, Ala., 1; Cleveland, Ohio, 1; Atlanta, Ga., 2; Mansfield, Ohio, 1; Charleston, W. Va., 1; Madison, Wis., 3; Seattle, Wash., 2; Beverly, Mass., 1; Ft. Wayne, Ind., 1; Marysville, Wash. 2; Flint, Mich., 1; Rochester, N.Y., 2; North Phoenix, Ariz., 1; Helena, Mont., 1. YOUTH 6.
Enrollments reported by
Regional Teaching Committees:
NORTHEASTERN STATES
- Mass., R.I., Vt.—4
- Me., N.H.—1
- W. N.Y.—2
- E. N.Y., Conn.—2
- N.J.—1
SOUTHERN STATES
- Fla.—4
- La., Miss.—2
CENTRAL STATES
- Mich.—3
- Ind.—1
- Wis., Minn., N. and S. Dakota—2
- Ill., Iowa—1
WESTERN STATES
- Alaska—1
- So. Calif., Ariz.—4 and 1 Youth
- Washington—1 Youth
- Idaho, Utah, Mont.—1
The Home Front[edit]
Spokane, Wash.
With the spirit of rededication engendered by the more recent pleas of the Guardian, this community finds new avenues opening everywhere. Reginald King secured a job teaching English for the foreign-born at the Public Night School. Fifty-three students, representing 16 foreign countries and three races, attended the first classes. Though state law forbids the teaching of religion in the public schools, generalizations of Bahá’í principles were worked into the study of English. Small groups were invited to the King home and made aware directly of the Faith. In the second term, 23 students enrolled and the term was ended with a party for them at the Bahá’í Center. Now, five adults are attending Bahá’í meetings, three Norwegians and two Japanese.
On April 10, several Bahá’ís attended the services of the local Buddhist congregation in commemoration of the birth of the Lord Buddha, and later the same evening were guests at a party attended by about 400 Japanese. Music was played on ancient Japanese instruments to accompany the beautiful dances. The word spread rapidly that Bahá’ís accept the Lord Buddha as God’s Messenger on the same level as the founders of other religions, so much may be expected from this group of contacts.
Mr. King, as assistant program director of a local radio station, was instrumental in instituting a program, “Know Your Neighbor”, which for the first time locally gave voice to the minorities and they are gratefully aware of this fact. Furthermore, the Bahá’ís now have a recognized Bahá’í representative on the board of the Spokane Race Relations Council with full voice and vote. The radio program in coming weeks will give air time to the Jewish, Buddhist, and Bahá’í Faiths. Of interest is the fact that one member in the English class first heard of the Faith from the Bahá’í pioneer to Nicaragua, Mathew Kazab.
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
At a program sponsored by this community during Brotherhood Week, Feb. 27, William Foster of Chicago was the Bahá’í speaker on the platform shared by a Christian Minister, a Hindu Teacher, a Jewish Rabbi, and a Moslem Teacher. Mr. Foster appreciated the fine reception accorded him and noted much enthusiasm in the local teaching of the Faith.
Brattleboro, Vt.
Though this community nearly lost its quota number of 15 members through some moving away, it was sustained by the coming of a believer from South Vernon, Mass. During Naw-Rúz, William Sears spoke in Brattleboro and during firesides and other meetings, Mrs. Amy Raubitschek, Hormoz Broumond, Allah Kalantar, and Sammy Heywood gave talks.
Waterloo, N.Y.
A talk on “Brotherhood” was given by John Leonard on Feb. 27, with 10 students from Syracuse and the Bahá’ís of that city as guests. Geneva, Seneca Township, and Oswego friends were also present. In addition to the talk, readings were given and after refreshments, a group discussion on “Happiness” rounded out the evening.
Southern California and Arizona
At a Regional Conference on Mar. 12, the main topic for consultation was “Confirmation”. Relative to contacts it was remarked that it is easy to meet people and make friends anywhere if one truly likes people. It was agreed that the Spirit confirms believers. People are easily confirmed when they understand the Cause. Relative to community difficulties, it was observed that lack of growth can fall under two main classes, LETHARGY or DISHARMONY. Bahá’ís must LOVE the Cause, and it must come first. Personal differences may arise, but there must be unity within the community.
Anchorage, Alaska
“In the March issue of Glamour magazine, there was an article about Mrs. Frances Wells and her Arctic Trails Shopping Service, entitled, “Alaska’s Proxy Shopper”. To date, Mrs. Wells has received nearly 75 letters of inquiry about Alaska and
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Calendar FEASTS:
NSA Meeting:
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she is answering them by mimeographed letter telling her reason for coming to Alaska as a Bahá’í settler and enclosing Bahá’í literature.”
The enrollment of a new believer is reported from Fort Richardson, Mr. James Cooper, a colored soldier. He has been enthusiastically studying and disseminating the Faith since first hearing of it several months ago when he walked into the store of a Bahá’í. “My life began on that day”, he says.
Tacoma, Wash.
February, which was Race Relations Month, was observed with a public talk being given by Mr. E. George Washington of Seattle. He delivered an excellent address to several hundred members of the Bethlehem Baptist Church on the subject, “Brotherhood of Man”, with the audience evidencing great interest. The Rev. E. B. Wilson, minister of the church, was of assistance to the Bahá’í Conference held the first week in January.
Brattleboro, Vt.
Brattleboro has not only achieved its goal but will likely exceed it! The powers of attraction generated by the untiring and united efforts of this community have been most fruitful. Not only have the four souls, necessary to reach their goal of fifteen, declared themselves but several others with whom they have been diligently working are voicing their profound interest in the Cause. Furthermore, groups and individuals, isolated from the city, as well are in the process of enrollment. Let us express our heartfelt gratitude to Bahá’u’lláh and to these faithful souls in their great and consoling triumph. Their activities have not ceased nor have they been lessened in any way. Hormoz Bourmond aided them with a very successful series of meetings over the Feb. 20 weekend and their future schedule is as industrious as ever.”
Rochester, N.Y.
“Last September the Bahá’ís of Rochester and vicinity started an experiment which has proven most successful. Perhaps other cities similarly situated would like to try this cooperative plan. The believers of Rochester, its suburbs, and the nearby town of Victor, pool their finances and TIME AND EFFORTS to promote weekly meetings open to the public and held in a Rochester hotel. These public meetings follow
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Suggested Daily Readings For June, 1949
“Lord! Turn the distressing cares of Thy holy ones into ease, their hardships into comfort, their abasement into glory, their sorrow into blissful joy; O Thou that holdest in Thy grasp the reins of all mankind!” June |
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the Northeastern Plan: one advertised and publicized PUBLIC MEETING a month in a room that will hold 50 or so, and three Discussion Meetings in a smaller room, usually advertised. In addition to the paid ads, and free publicity when it can be obtained, all these meetings at the hotel are given a free “spot” in the evening paper in the “Midweek Services” column. This starts with the heading “Bahá’í” and includes time, place, name of speaker or discussion leader and title of talk. Because these listings are alphabetized, the Bahá’í listing has come first.
San Francisco, Cal.
This community has for years held a weekly public meeting. At times it has been well attended, more often not, but the Assembly has felt it a necessary link with the general public. On the contrary special public meetings, to celebrate an anniversary or some other special occasion have always had a very good attendance of Bahá’ís and non-Bahá’ís. At times the suggestion has been made that our regular public meetings be reduced to one a month and a special effort made to make them large meetings. In December the Assembly accepted the suggestion of the Program and Contacts Committee that the regular weekly meetings be continued but that once a month a special effort be made to get an outstanding speaker, have music and refreshments and make a big event of it. The first of these meetings was held January 21. The audience numbered at least 85, more than half of whom were non-Bahá’ís. Many friends stayed to talk for some time after the lecture.
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Bahá’í News is published by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States as the official news-letter of the Bahá’í Community. Edited for the National Spiritual Assembly by Bahá’í News Editorial Committee: Mrs. Roberta Christian, chairman, Mrs. Margaret Jamir, Mr. Gordon A. Fraser, Editorial office: Mrs. Roberta Christian, 1001 West Genesee St., Lansing, Mich. Please report changes of address and other matters pertaining to distribution to the Bahá’í National Office, 536 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, Illinois. |
“We are regularly holding four weekly study classes, two for youth, one for Bahá’ís only, and one for inquirers. The first weekend in January a teacher-training class on the Covenant Outline was given and was attended by seven potential teachers of classes on that subject.”
Richmond Highlands, Wash.
Last fall this community started discussion groups, mailing out form letters to strangers telling them briefly of the Bahá’í Faith and notifying them that once a week for two hours the Fellowship House was open for discussion time. A believer was there to greet those who came, and two appeared from this community. Since then, twice a month, the discussion time has been held with one lady in constant attendance whom we feel sure will become a believer soon.
| ‘Abdu’l-Bahá | |
“This Is My Message” | 4 |
Addresses | 9 |
Annual Reports, Cont’d. | 10 |
Around Bahá’í World | 8 |
Calendar | 11 |
Child’s Way | 7 |
| Convention | |
Cable to Guardian | 1 |
Election Results | 1 |
Enrollments | 10 |
“First Things First” | 2 |
| Fund | |
Assemblies Contributing | 9 |
Score to Date | 10 |
| Guardian | |
Message to Convention | 1 |
“Only Source of Joy” | 7 |
Successive Cables | 2 |
Home Front | 11 |
Latin America | 8 |
Memoriam | 9 |
| National Spiritual Assembly | |
Election | 1 |
“First Things First” | 2 |
“New Spirit” (Letter) | 4 |
Schedule of Meetings | 7 |
| Pictures | |
American Indian Bahá’ís | 5 |
Mr. and Mrs. Bode | 6 |
Temple Interior drawing | 3 |
Programmers’ Corner | 2 |
Publicity Releases | 7 |
| Publishing Comm. | |
Announcements | 6 |
Annual Report | 10 |
Schedules of Meetings | 7 |
Temple Construction | 3 |
Suggested Daily Readings | 12 |
Youth Circuit Teaching | 5 |
