THE BULLETIN OF THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY
OF THE BAHA’IS OF THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA
Office of the Secretary
129 EAST 10th STREET, NEW YORK CITY
“The purpose of every Divine
Revelation is the knowledge of God and
the promotion of amity and concord
amidst men; yet behold how in these
days the law of God hath been made
the cause of perversity and hate!
Many, alas, have clung to their own
ways and remained oblivious and unmindful
of the Way of God. . . . O
people of Bahá! Gird up the loins of
endeavor, haply sectarian contention
and strife may be removed, nay utterly
banished from the face of the earth.
Arise in the love of God and of His
servants for the triumph of this mighty
Cause.”—BAHÁ’ULLÁH.
Communications From Shoghi Effendi[edit]
National Spiritual Assembly: Pray conveys friends assembled at inauguration ceremony Foundation Hall my earnest and pressing plea for heroic, sustained and self-sacrificing effort to pledge necessary requirements for early resumption Temple building operations. May delegates’ solemn resolution, reinforced by the entire body of believers and effectively carried out by the incoming National Assembly, immortalizes memory of this year’s Ridván Festival as a most notable landmark in history of our beloved Faith. (signed) Shoghi, Haifa, Palestine, April 24, 1928.
McDaniel, cares National Assembly: Kindly assure assembled delegates on behalf family (and) myself our love, appreciation, prayers, gratitude, (signed) Shoghi, Haifa, Palestine, April 30, 1928.
National Spiritual Assembly: Overjoyed delegates’ spontaneous, most generous response. Praying for sustained effort by the entire body (of) believers. Wish newly formed Assembly speedy, unqualified success. Congratulate Ruhi. (signed) Shoghi, Haifa, Palestine, May 2, 1928.
To Mr. McDaniel: My very dear and precious co-worker: I rejoice to learn of the result of the National elections. Such a splendid and united group with such a splendid start made at the Convention, should be able to contribute a notable share to the success of the Plan. I will pray for them all, that through their wise, sustained and concerted efforts, and reinforced by the generous, spontaneous and continued support of the body of the believers, they may in the course of a year or two bring to a successful conclusion the first stage in the construction of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkar. (signed) Shoghi, Haifa, Palestine, May 9, 1928.
A Few Impressions of the Twentieth Annual Convention[edit]
The latest annual convention, in its order, was the first in a new cycle of Nineteen and was the first to be held in the Mashriqu’l-Adhkar, or that portion of the great universal temple in America which is now completed, its foundation hall. Besides these, there are doubtless other reasons why this luminous gathering attracted the descent of heavenly bounties.
“The Lord is in His Holy Temple. Let all the earth keep silence before Him!”
The Divine Nearness and confirmation are promised those who arise to build the Temple of God. The transformation of the interior of the Temple foundation into an attractive, comfortable and beautiful place of worship, the variety of ferns and flowers which completely circled the rotunda, the beautiful rugs which returning pilgrims brought from the Orient as a gift from Shoghi Effendi, rich in memories of their former association with the spot of earth most sacred to Bahá’is, the gathering of the friends of God from East and West, North and South, and the presence of a member of the Holy Household to take part in the deliberations of the friends, combined to make this convention the greatest in many years.
The Ridvan declaration of the Most High, Bahá’u’lláh, was joyfully celebrated with simplicity and dignity. The material part of the feast consisted of tea, served all who attended, while a beautiful child, Parvene Bagdadi, anointed the foreheads, after the Oriental custom, with attar of roses. The spiritual blessings consisted in the chanting of the holy Words, the reading of beautiful tablets and letters, the addresses of pilgrims recently returned from “the White Spot” and the remarks of Ruhi Effendi Afnán.
Our Guardian, with the utmost love and attraction, has bestowed these priceless gifts upon the American friends to serve as ornaments in their temple. The friends who in loving service brought them felt protected in bearing so lovely a treasure from such a source. At the same time it was made clear that these rugs in themselves are not objects of adoration, but have acquired significance through the art and devotion of our Oriental friends who wove them and made them a contribution to the Sacred Shrine, and through their former service in that wonderful place.
The officers of the convention, as permanently organized, were Allen B. McDaniel, chairman, and Horace Holley, secretary.
The important business, feature was the reports of the standing committees showing with some degree of detail the work actually done in various lines of endeavor during the past year. These reports were presented seriatim according to the printed agenda, and each followed by exhaustive colloquy and discussion. In connection with the Plan of Unified Action, as outlined and
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of the Bahá’is of the United States and Canada
129 East 10th Street, New York City Office of the Treasurer 1821 Lincoln Street Evanston, Ill.
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considered by the Finance Committee, three hours were spent in a conference, every phase of the matter being considered. The strong endorsement and approval given it by the Guardian also appeared. It received the united support of all present. A covenant was entered into on the part of the National Spiritual Assembly on the one hand, who on their part agree that during the coming year under no circumstances will the quota allowed for current expenses be exceeded, and by the delegates and friends on the other, in the joy and glory of sacrifice, to do all in their own power and to stimulate others to raise the necessary sum that will in this way result in the erection of the Temple.
In order to answer any question and to clear away all possible misunderstandings, the convention allowed the widest latitude of discussion, going so far as to allow all present who wished, to take part whether or not they were enrolled as delegates. Although much time was consumed it seemed in the end to be great wisdom, giving rise to complete understanding, harmony and cooperation and seeming to unify those present as kindred souls.
In connection with the report of the treasurer it came to light that the Federal Government at Washington has taken official cognizance of the Bahá’i Cause, in that the Treasury Department has exempted from the payment of income tax that portion of one’s income that is dedicated to the service of this Cause.
Miss Julia K. Threlkeld, a delegate from New York City, made a stirring address, showing how the finances of that great Assembly have been rehabilitated during the past year, how they have the best quarters ever occupied by them and how the greatest harmony, strength and efficiency in service that they have ever known now prevails.
Preceding the election of the new National Spiritual Assembly, the convention held a period of meditation, chanting and prayer with a desire to bring a spiritual atmosphere preceding the purpose of the meeting. The tellers appointed in due time reported the election as follows: Allen B. McDaniel, Alfred E. Lunt, Roy C. Wilhelm, Louis G. Gregory, May Maxwell, Horace Holley, Carl Scheffler, Amelia Collins and Nellie S. French.
The spirit of a departed hero was revived by the very eloquent eulogy delivered by Willard P. Hatch upon the late Thornton Chase, the first Bahá’i in America. It reviewed his birth in Springfield, Massachusetts, his illumination at Chicago and his great services to the Divine Cause in Los Angeles, where also is his shrine. The books he wrote, the life of sacrifice he lived, his luminous teaching services to humanity were highly and deservedly praised.
In connection with the report of the committee on Inter-Racial Amity, the powerful letter to the Guardian, bearing upon this subject, was read. News of the many happy responses of Assemblies and individuals, the growing enthusiasm and deep interest in the subject as a means of guiding souls and augmenting the spirituality of meetings made a marked impression upon the convention. Inspiring reports came from twelve centers in which amity conferences or meetings were held and others reported plans for the future.
The report of the Teaching Committee related the increasing capacity of souls and the ease of reaching those who are now eager for the message. It especially featured the great and unusual services rendered during the past year by Ruhi Effendi Afnán, Albert Vail and other teachers. Ruhi Afnán addressed the convention several times and was always listened to with profound attention. In one of his talks, he gave a detailed account of his teaching work in America which covered a wide area. He pointed out the great possibilities of this work and the special need of reaching the youth with the glorious message. He stressed the need of holding before them high moral standards not only as ideals, but exemplified in the conduct of the teachers, also the need of presenting the teachings in a modern and rational way. His frank and manly expressions brought the light of wisdom to the consultations of the friends and his placing of himself under the shadow of our blessed Guardian evoked much love.—
“Rich in saving common sense, In his simplicity, sublime.”
These words of the Victorian poet might well have been written about this youthful, devoted and eloquent servant of God.
The Convention, during meeting
day and night, was a scene of happiness
and hard work, imposing a strain
upon all the resources of those in attendance.
The evening meetings were
directed to teaching and partly to a
discussion of ways and methods. The
wisdom of Albert Vail and others experienced
in the teaching work shone
forth, but many of the brightest suggestions
came from those lamps which[Page 3]
have been recently lighted by “the
Hand of Divine Power.” The culmination
of the Convention teaching,
effort was the one great public meeting
held in Chicago, all other gatherings
having met in the Temple foundation.
At this great meeting, which
filled to overflowing one of the most
spacious auditoriums in the new Masonic
Temple, the committee was favored
in having the services of Dr.
John Herman Randall and Ruhi Effendi
Afnán, who from the respective
standpoints of West and East gave
the message and teachings of Bahá’u’lláh
with eloquence and power.
No report of impressions, long or short, can adequately and justly describe this glorious Convention, the most brilliant and successful in years. How can we record or convey those bright jewels which continually flashed from the minds and hearts of numberless speakers, some teaching, others consulting, still others happily detailing their spiritual victories? How powerless are we to present the spirit of those wonderful and devoted souls who sacrifice day in and day out, year in and year out, yet never mention their own deeds in the Path of God? These also were present and numbered not a few, perhaps as unconscious of their perfections as the diamond is of its luster or the rose of its perfume. Silently, they yet bore eloquent testimony of “a faith with wings.”
This convention, as never before, revealed the altar of sacrifice. Its expression was an out-pouring of divine love in human hearts that gladdened the horizons. All gifts were made unlabeled and directed to the Plan of Unified Action through which the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár is to elevate its shining dome. One devoted family in Montreal gave the princely sum of $25,000. Another of the same city pledged $9,000. Checks, cash and pledges rapidly followed, bringing the total up to $40,000. A number who did not have money, who had strained themselves to the limit in attending the Convention, laid their precious jewels upon the altar of the Temple. Our Persian brother led in sacrificing a gold watch, a gift to him from the Greatest Holy Leaf, and a pair of cuff buttons with similarly sacred associations. Here again were those present who always lay their gifts upon the altar silently and unseen. Yet the scene stimulates others.
Will the entire sum that is needed, $400,000, be completed in time? Somehow, since this Convention, it does not seem far away! Who knows what the present year may bring forth? The Mashriqu’l-Adhkár of Askabad was erected through the sacrifices of two hundred heroic souls. What may not appear today from “the degrees of devotion” on the part of fifteen hundred or more American friends?
National Assembly Letter No. 1 1928–1929[edit]
To the Local Spiritual Assemblies and Delegates of the 1928 Convention.
Beloved Friends of El–Abhá:
We seize this first opportunity to acquaint you with the vital message received from the Guardian of our Faith for the Convention just terminated, in order that you may share the consciousness of renewed inspiration which is being profoundly felt by all who were present. “NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY,
- NEW YORK CITY.
“PRAY CONVEY FRIENDS ASSEMBLED AT INAUGURATION CEREMONY FOUNDATION HALL MY EARNEST AND PRESSING PLEA FOR HEROIC, SUSTAINED AND SELF-SACRIFICING EFFORT TO PLEDGE NECESSARY REQUIREMENTS FOR EARLY RESUMPTION TEMPLE BUILDING OPERATIONS. MAY DELEGATES SOLEMN RESOLUTION, REINFORCED BY ENTIRE BODY OF BELIEVERS AND EFFECTIVELY CARRIED OUT BY INCOMING NATIONAL ASSEMBLY, IMMORTALIZE MEMORY OF THIS YEAR’S RIDVAN FESTIVAL AS A MOST NOTABLE LANDMARK IN HISTORY OF OUR BELOVED FAITH.
The immediate effect of this message, together with the personal contact of delegates and friends in the beautifully prepared Foundation Hall of the Temple, have been:—
- 1. The revitalizing of spiritual
forces so long smoldering through inactivity in Temple construction.
- 2. The determination of the National
Spiritual Assembly to enter into a covenant with the believers, certainly not to exceed, and probably not to expend, the full amount of their budget for operating expenses during this most important year in the Cause, and the pledge of the delegates assembled to fulfill their part of the covenant to raise the balance of the $400,000 necessary to resume the building of the Temple.
- 3. The contribution in cash and
pledges of $40,000 during the Convention, a sum which exceeds by $7,000 the total cost of maintaining all National activities of the Cause for one year, and puts us definitely on the way toward the $400,000 which must flow in during this year.
- 4. The confident expectation that all
believers will immediately arise to support the Plan of Unified Action.
- 5. That Local Assemblies will hereafter
budget their own funds in order that the most strenuous economy may be practiced, even to the point of meeting, if necessary, in private homes rather than in expensive headquarters.
- 6. The deepening conviction that the
funds required must come from the most supreme sacrifice on the part of groups as well as individuals.
- 7. That’s where individuals have fulfilled
their obligation to their own local budget, whatever that may be, they may then contribute any amount, large or small, directly to the National Fund through the treasurer, Mr. Carl Scheffler, whose address is 1821 Lincoln Street, Evanston, Illinois.
- 8. That the work on the Temple
must be resumed this year—this is the “Year of Decision.”
- 9. That monthly statement on the
progress of the Fund will be sent to all Bahá’i Communities and delegates.
Dear friends, the self-sacrifice evidenced at this Convention in the contribution of personal treasures and money has never been equalled in the history of the Cause in America. Hearts are rejoiced—enthusiasm is reborn—confidence is restored. Let each one take this message deep into his heart that we may now show forth what our efforts in this vital matter will be.
Yours faithfully, in service to Shoghi Effendi.
NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHA’IS OF THE U.S. AND CANADA
- Allen McDaniel, Chairman,
- Alfred E. Lunt, Vice Chairman,
- Horace Holley, Secretary,
- Carl Scheffler, Treasurer,
- Roy C. Wilhelm,
- May Maxwell,
- Louis G. Gregory,
- Amelia Collins,
- Nellie S. French.
National Assembly Letter No. 2 1928–1929
To the Local Spiritual Assemblies and Delegates of the 1928 Convention. Beloved Friends in El-Abhá:
Our Guardian has set a definite objective of spiritual achievement for all of us this year: the establishment of unity throughout the Cause in America by the fulfillment of the Plan of Unified Action.
“The principle of faith is to lessen words and increase deeds.” With this holy utterance in our hearts, let us unitedly arise to obey Shoghi Effendi and donate the funds to build the Temple. Inspired by our Guardian’s words, the Twentieth Annual Convention made a recommendation which the National Spiritual Assembly has approved and is herewith bringing to the attention of the believers for consideration and action.
Our Guardian in his wisdom has pointed out the threefold character of the Nineteen Day Feasts, which are meetings confined to the believers: the Spiritual phase with prayers and the reading of the Holy Utterances; the general meeting for consultation and consideration of the administrative affairs of the Cause; and lastly the social gathering of the friends present.
Your National Spiritual Assembly suggests that in each and every Bahá’i community, all of the believers assemble in loving communion and consultation at the Nineteen Day Feasts and in the spirit of self-sacrifice contribute their resources, spiritual, intellectual and materially to the fulfillment of our immediate obligation and privilege.
The way is open, the call is clear, and only “implicit obedience” will open the doors of His Kingdom. Let us then neither falter not hesitate, but arise with faith and assurance to do His Will.
Yours faithfully, in service to Shoghi Effendi,
NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHA’IS OF THE U.S. AND CANADA.
- Allen McDaniel, Chairman,
- Alfred E. Lunt, Vice Chairman,
- Horace Holley, Secretary,
- Carl Scheffler, Treasurer,
- Roy C. Wilhelm,
- May Maxwell,
- Louis G. Gregory,
- Amelia Collins,
- Nellie S. French.
Plans of Teaching Committee[edit]
To the Local Spiritual Assemblies and Believers of the United States and Canada.
Beloved friends:
The teaching work begins a new period of effort under more auspicious circumstances. The increasing capacity of the people, the tremendous, underlying search for truth, the demand for greater preparation in every field of knowledge is a challenge to every Bahá’i, intent upon assuming that responsibility for guidance, so ardently desired by ’Abdu’l-Bahá and by Shoghi Effendi.
In the past twenty years, this world has become a new world. Not only every year, but every day is revealing new laws, new mysteries of life, and the penetration of the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh has produced a new social consciousness.
Thinking people everywhere realize the necessity for an adjustment of the social, economic, political and religious structure which will coordinate all of these elements in a new synthesis of life.
Nothing but the religion of Bahá’u’lláh which is the cause and the origin of this new creation can bring it into harmony and order.
During the past year Ruhi Effendi visited more than thirty-five Bahá’i centers, in most of which he addressed public meetings, groups and classes. He spoke to groups in a number of our leading colleges and found the student body most interested and receptive. With the young people everywhere he has made splendid stimulating contacts.
In the field of teaching, he has shown us a new and fresh approach to thinking people, direct, fearless and sublime in its faith in the invincible power of Bahá’u’lláh. He has cast the teachings in the mould closest to the thought and deepest searchings of the western mind. He has shown the actual connection between the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh and the outreaching for truth in modern thought, especially in the new and wonderful generation now growing up in our midst on whose wisdom and understanding will rest the issues of the future.
The whole-hearted and sincere cooperation of the Local Spiritual Assemblies and friends throughout the country made possible the splendid achievements of the past year. This year we hope by our united efforts to build a stronger foundation and to increase the scope of active teaching. We therefore take this opportunity to acquaint you with our hopes and plans in the full assurance of your loving support.
The three aspects of teaching which were more fully developed last year, that is, public meetings, group work and Bahá’i classes, we propose to carry forward along modern lines.
- I. In our public meetings we should
seek to make contact with outside speakers, sympathy with the spirit of the Cause, and as far as possible, develop those wider affiliations with leading groups in each locality.
- II. Group meetings to follow these
public addresses and to be carried on regularly in every center.
- Ill. Regional schedules for each
available Bahá’i teacher, the circuit with dates to be worked out in consultation with all Local Assemblies.
- IV. The development of new and
modern study classes, in which the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh and ’Abdu’l-Bahá may be studied in connection with books by the best modern authorities on the same subjects.
Shoghi Effendi has told us to trace in the events of this age the influence of Bahá’u’lláh and His Message and those modern books on science, sociology, internationalism and economics are among the greatest forces for progress and education, and when intelligently related to the Bahá’i teachings will prove a great factor for attracting and teaching those people of culture and capacity so much desired by our Guardian.
In order to develop this plan on a national cooperative scale we must first hear from the Local Assemblies on the following points:
The names and addresses of each Local Teaching Committee. It is suggested that at least one young person of capacity should be a member of the committee.
The number of Bahá’is in each locality who can speak in public meetings or do group teaching work, with a statement of their qualifications.
A list of those in every locality, either Bahá’i or attracted to the Cause, who will be glad to join a modern study class.
A list of speakers and teachers from each center who will be available for short circuits and interchange between Assemblies with a statement as to what degree they will require financial assistance.
Our program contemplates the joining of the mature judgment and wisdom of the older Bahá’is and teachers with the freshness, enthusiasm and modern outlook of the younger friends, confident that this will result in a more mature expression of the Cause.
Shoghi Effendi has given us one
year in which to fulfill the Plan of
Unified Action, to redeem our past
failures and start building the Temple,
which is destined so powerfully to affect
the Cause of peace and brotherhood
on this continent. By this means
alone and by the rapid spread of the
Spirit and Teachings of Bahá’u’lláh
can we hope to establish that Bahá’i
Community so often referred to by
our Guardian, that center of unity and
stability, wherein mankind can find,[Page 5]
in the time of affliction and danger
through which the world must pass, a
refuge and protection.
In a letter just received from Shoghi Effendi he says: “Teaching today is the greatest possible work for any Bahá’i in every land and especially in America. When our numbers increase and we become better Bahá’is, there will be fewer problems to think about.”
In the Will and Testament we read: “In these days the most important of things is the guidance of the nations and the peoples of the world. Teaching the Cause is of utmost importance for it is the head cornerstone of the foundation itself.” Again Shoghi Effendi says: “His trumpet–call resounds on every side, and summons us to service; are we to tarry and hesitate? His voice is calling aloud from every land, let us march on, unfettered and unafraid and fulfill our glorious destiny.”
Eagerly awaiting your replies and loving cooperation, we are Devotedly your co-workers in the Blessed Cause,
TEACHING COMMITTEE OF THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY
- Harlan Ober, Chairman,
- Marion Little,
- Doris McKay,
- R. C. Collison,
- May Maxwell, Secretary,
- 716 Pine Avenue W.
- Montreal, Canada.
The Coming Season at Green Acre[edit]
A recent meeting of the Green Acre Committee of the National Assembly made a final decision on plans which have been under discussion since last summer, and arrangements are well under way for a most successful season.
Among the improvements which can be announced at this time are: the completion of the two dormitories at Fellowship House, one for women and one for men, which will offer excellent accommodations at very moderate rates; and, for even greater economy, the beginnings of a real bungalow colony on the tract of land near the Little Theatre. Guests will also be accommodated in the large cottage known as Green Acre Cottage, on the main road adjacent to the Community Store, through the courtesy of Mr. and Mrs. Schopflocher.
The booking of all accommodations at Green Acre, with the exception of the new bungalow colony, will be made by the new manager of the Green Acre Inn, Mr. Thompson. In Mr. and Mrs. Thompson the committee has been fortunate in finding worthy successors to Mrs. Bliss, who reluctantly found herself physically unable to donate her services to Green Acre another season.
As many inquiries have been received from non–Bahá’is who are interested in the Institute of World Unity, the friends are urged to apply to Manager, Green Acre Inn, Eliot, Maine, for their rooms as soon as possible, in order that none may be disappointed. We must remember that Green Acre itself can provide for less than one hundred guests.
In cooperation with the Teaching Committee of the National Assembly, an extremely interesting and helpful Bahá’i program has been developed, to be held on the porch of Fellowship House as in previous years. Among the teachers to be present will be: Mr. Albert Vail, Mr. Louis Gregory, Mr. Alfred E. Lunt and Mrs. Keith Ransom-Kehler.
From August 14 to September 4, the Bahá’i study class will be conducted along the broader lines explained in the Teaching Committee report published in this number of the NEWS LETTER. The subjects selected are as follows:
- 1. Influence of Religion on Civilization
from the aspect of History.
- 2. Solution of the Social-Economic
Problem.
- 3. History of Conflict between Science
and Religion.
Those planning to attend these classes should write to the Secretary of the Teaching Committee for a list of references on these subjects compiled from the Bahá’i literature.
Address Delivered by Ruhi Effendi Afnán at the Twentieth Annual Convention[edit]
A little study of the progress of religion in this country, especially in the light of the books and periodicals that are coming out, will show every unprejudiced mind that on the one hand, there is a dying out of the spirit of sectarianism and, on the other, a gradual creeping in of the desire for true religion. Man is becoming too broad along every line to be kept narrow in his religious views, but he has at the same time learned that without the value religion gives to life and the outlook it creates in the individual, Science cannot proceed very far without at the same time opening up new channels for destruction. Science is gradually learning to value the importance of religion and drawing nearer to it.
At such a juncture the Bahá’i Movement exists on the field, with the full equipment in principles and in spiritual dynamics, to provide the world with the necessary religious views. Is it going to avail itself of this wonderful chance, or is it going to let it slip away? It all depends upon us, the Bahá’is, for ever since 1844 we have been trained for this purpose!
What I wish now is to say how we can do it, how we can arise to the occasion and spread this great Cause of ours. During these last few months, as you already know, I have been travelling around in this country and the experiences I have had in the field of teaching have led me to certain conclusions. I do not maintain that these views are beyond reproach, for after a few more experiences, I may modify them to a great extent. But may be, if expressed frankly and clearly, these experiences will prove of some use to that body which will undertake the task of arranging for the teaching work during the coming year.
First, let us consider the condition of the Cause at present. Except in a few centers, such as New York, Portland and various other small centers, the Cause is not spreading rapidly. The friends do attend their meetings, they hold their feasts most regularly, but, as far as I can make out, they are not satisfied as to the progress they are making in attracting new individuals.
The reason for this, I believe, is
partly due to the kind of approach
they make, and partly to the kind of
people they approach. Let us take the
latter case first. It is an actual fact
in every sphere of human knowledge
that only seekers ought to be told. It
is good for an individual to mention
the precepts of this Cause to every
one, perchance a true seeker may hear
and accept it, but the best and most
dignified form is to find your seeking
soul and then give him what he desires.
This way the seed will fall on
fertile soil. Many times I have been
brought by Bahá’is in contact with
certain individuals who have heard me
most diligently, perhaps even asked me
a question or two, but who before
leaving have said “this is all interesting,
but we are satisfied with what we
have.” It is useless to talk to people
who are satisfied, unless we can first
create in them a dissatisfaction and
then a desire for some reformed ideas.[Page 6]
Consequently, the proper persons to
approach are not necessarily those who
conform to certain religious views.
Sometimes a person who is agnostic
and has left religion in the pursuit
of some other reformative movement
is far easier to reach. There are millions
of people in this country, who are
craving for some religious views that
would satisfy their reason as well as
their spiritual longing, and it is these
that we want no matter in what walk
of life they may be. These are naturally
broad-minded and ready to accept
whatever satisfies their reason.
Among teachers, educated people,
club people and those who interest
themselves in humanitarian services,
there are throngs who would accept
the Cause if approached in a broad
way. Students of some philosophic or
mystic cults are not generally so
receptive.
In fact, if we begin to concentrate our efforts among such broadminded people, we would save the Cause from a great handicap it has to cope with at present. Bahá’i has come to mean to many, another of the Mystic cults that are ravaging this country, and it is our duty to the Master, and to the prestige of His Cause, to try our best to dissociate ourselves from them. Immediately I mentioned the Cause to a professor in one of the Middle Western universities, he exclaimed “Oh yes! another one of the Eastern cults.” I had long pains to prove to him that this was not the case. It is such conceptions that we have to fight first, if we desire to really spread the Cause. Since we all know that the movement is the greatest thing the world has had for many centuries, then why let it be classified with such schools of thought?
Then our mode of approach should be exactly like that of the Master. I believe there are few who appreciate the great change the Master made in the method of teaching when he came to this country. Previous to that, in the East at least, the only way they proved the importance of the Cause was by referring to the prophecies concerning the Cause that had been mentioned in the Holy Scriptures or the Qu’ran. The Master, when He undertook His trip to the West, saw the futility of such a method; he saw that if the people are not ready to comply with the authority of the Bible, surely they will not listen to what its prophecies prove! So he set aside that method and began to emphasize the social teachings of the Cause. Take the Paris or London talks, or the discourses he delivered in America and find for yourself how he emphasized primarily the social aspect of the Movement. My point is merely to follow His example, if we desire to succeed.
But though the Master laid for us the best form of teaching the Cause, He wants us to modify it to suit the occasion. Moreover, what He gives are certain generalizations: it is for us to prove them. ‘Abdu’l Bahá speaks of a graduated Income Tax as the only form of taxation; it is for us to prove its use. He mentions the Unity of Science and Religion; it is for us to find out how that movement is to be brought about. He advocates stronger family ties, it is for us to find out how the measures he advocates concerning marriage and divorce fit in with the family problems we have at present. In short, we have to study the historical background to find out the significance of what ‘Abdu’l-Bahá advocates. It is only by doing that, that a newcomer can find out the true importance of the Cause and be attracted to it. Moreover, supposing the world were suddenly to awaken to the truth that only the Bahá’is have the true solution for the world problems, and were to give us the reign of administration to adjust society according to our ideals, would we be able to undertake the task?
We have to prepare ourselves for this task in two ways. First by mixing more with the world outside. One unfortunate thing I have found in many centers that I have visited is that the Bahá’is, enchanted by the wonderful treasures they possess, do nothing more than sit down, count them and admire them. Bahá’u’lláh did not desire to attract us away from society, he definitely says mingle with all the peoples of the world and share with them the fruits of your endeavors. A true Bahá’i, therefore, is the one who lives as a member of society, alive with its activities. He should be a leader of society and a source of inspiration to it, always busy to apply in its life the precepts of the Cause. Mix with your fellow Bahá’is, so as to keep in touch with the source of inspiration and then go out into the world using that spirit which you have obtained in quickening the world and solving its impending problems. Yet we should be on our guard lest gradually other interests draw us away from the Cause.
But to be able to do real service to humanity and appreciate the significance of the Movement, we should also try and educate ourselves. As far as my experiences go, the more books I read, the more I appreciate the Cause. In the book wrongly called “Mysterious Forces of Civilization” ‘Abdu’l-Bahá advances the view that the prophets are the true founders of civilization. How many of the Bahá’is are competent to prove that in an historical way and in a form that would absorb the interest of a student? The Movement has the best teachings concerning internationalism; how many of us can write a book showing that fact? The more we study the condition of the world, the more we would appreciate the significance of the Cause. Why should not every one of us take a phase of the Cause and specialize in it? Read everything the Master says about it and also what others say. This way, we could become what we ought to be, namely, the leaders of society.
The best way to undertake such a task of self-education is by forming book-clubs and circulating among ourselves the most modern books that have some bearing on subjects akin to the Movement. And then, specialize on one subject thoroughly, prepare a paper on it, and then read it to the other members of the study circle. Why should we not in the Study groups arranged to study the Cause also study some outside authorities, even though they have views contrary to our own. It is only by knowing the weakness of the adversary that we can assail him. But, in choosing such books, we have to take up true science, as expressed by recognizing authority, not revert to secondary writers who may misguide us.
Then the Bahá’í Magazine can take the lead in such a move and direct the studies of the friends by recommending interesting subjects and the proper books along that line. A book review that would discuss the latest publications and their relation to the Bahá’i principles would be most profitable.
Then in our approach, what we
sometimes try to do is to create a
peaceful atmosphere of spiritual exaltation
and thus inspire the hearers.
Among the first teachings that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
mentions is searching after truth.
The first valley that Bahá’u’lláh enumerates
for the soul to pass through
to attain spiritual life is the valley of
search. The true speaker, therefore,
is the one who arouses in his audience
that desire for the search, rather than the
one who gives his hearers a picture of
the spiritual life. This is especially
true of the young people. Many times,
while we were having a hot discussion[Page 7]
with some young students, some of the
old friends considered the atmosphere
most charged with undesirable
spirit and therefore tried to calm it
down with some kind words. Immediately,
the young students felt bored
and left. Spiritual attainment is the
result obtained after a thorough process
of search and is not a pre-requisite
to it. You cannot expect an individual
to become a Bahá’i without
previously questioning every statement
that is made.
One important conclusion that I have come to, while travelling throughout this country speaking about the Cause, is the method of presenting it. I was told on my arrival in this country, that the safest way to attract individuals is by avoiding the name of the Cause and its founders. I was even told that the name of the Cause is a handicap to it. Unfamiliar with the condition of the country, I almost believed it. The only reason why I did not subscribe to that idea was because a little knowledge of Christianity had taught me that the same thing was told about the early Christians. They called them Christians and jeered at them. But they did not change their name to satisfy the idiotic public, so I thought we should not give way to their prejudicial sentiments and commit a most humiliating act to the Cause and its founders.
Time and experience, however, have proven to me that such is not the case. I have not as yet found anyone who heard me mention the Cause and was prejudiced by its name. In fact, when on certain occasions the subject given to me was such that it did not necessitate a direct reference to the Cause, I have had people come to me later and ask why I did not mention the Movement and speak of it more exhaustively. The better the group, the more freedom I have had in mentioning the Cause. In a hall, on the grounds of Cornell University, I spoke on the work of the prophets and on Bahá’u’lláh as the manifestation of God to this day and no prejudice was manifested. Similarly did I speak to groups at Stanford University, University of British Columbia, Pacific School of Religion, at Vassar College and Mills College and to almost the whole student body of Howard University and many other groups.
What I believe is the reason for the prejudice is the sentiment or sectarian way some people present it. When all the talk is about certain personal experiences in Haifa or in the Cause in general, only few individuals who are already familiar with the Movement find it inspiring, others are not interested. Why should a college student or teacher care to know about the wonderful life of the people in Haifa? What he is interested in is the way they propose to help the betterment of the world.
Secondly, we sometimes are apt to speak of the wonderful teachings of the Cause, as if they are rival teachings with those of Christianity and far superior to them. Such an attitude would undoubtedly arouse a great amount of justified ill-feeling towards the Cause. In fact, it shows a lack of understanding on the part of the speaker. Bahá’u’lláh has not come into the world to create a religion to rival with Christianity, with a different set of teachings, all the time be on the alert to deprive others of their religion and bring them into His own fold. Bahá’u’lláh has come to reform the different religions, to make Christianity true and pure Christianity, Islam true and pure Islam, and so on. In other words, our belief is that all these religions are the renewals of the ancient and the same religion. They are the different fruits that the same ancient tree produced at different seasons. All the religions, in their true form, are religions renewed, and not new religions to rival with the existing ones.
Thus, whenever any prejudice is found against the Cause, you can trace it back to some misconceived statement made to that individual, and not an inherent handicap due to the name of the Cause. In fact, the names of Bahá’u’lláh and the Master bring with them a spiritual power that operates as the dynamic force behind the teachings. After the War, a certain prominent Minister in this country adopted some of the teachings of the Cause as his own and upon them founded a new Movement. Then, most impertinently, wrote to the Master and asked Him to join the Bahá’i Movement in his. The Master, in a wonderful tablet, told him that the existence, of these principles alone is not sufficient. Thousands of movements, with wonderful principles, have appeared, lived for a while and then died. It is only the movements founded by the prophets that have survived the ages and stood all kinds of obstructions. The reason for it, the Master said, was the driving executive power that the other movements lacked. Bahá’u’lláh, His name and His reality provide His principles with this dynamic power that will make them permanent. To cut ourselves away from that source of power is to insure our ultimate failure.
Then, through my experience. I have found that the best way of reaching people is through the salon system, rather than through public lectures. I can attribute that to two main reasons, one is that such meetings, being less formal, lend themselves better to discussion, which always adds interest to the whole. It also provides the friends the chance to pick out the individuals they deem worth while and invite them alone. Then, as the hostess know those present personally, she can keep in touch with them later on and do the follow–up work. One of the things the Cause has suffered much from is the lack of follow–up work. At least ninety per cent of my work, I believe, will remain absolutely fruitless due to this unfortunate condition. This, however, does not mean that we should give up public meetings, for undoubtedly they do serve a great purpose, but let us also have such informal meetings in private homes.
At the beginning of my work around the Bay Region, a great friend of the Cause, who had obtained for me some wonderful openings, told me “I would like to give you two advices. First, get to people of your own age, for those of my age are too hardboiled; then, do not try to get the people to you, go to them.” “There is always,” he said, “a class of people, who go habitually to lectures as a form of entertainment. They will listen to you, but they will never take what you say seriously.”
My own experiences have shown me the truth of these two statements. The best people that I addressed were not in the public meetings the Bahá’is arranged for me in their Hall, they were in those clubs and societies in which the friends obtained openings for me. I could never have attracted them to my meetings. I had to go to them. But, to obtain such openings is a difficult task! If, at a Bahá’i meeting, the speaker speaks in a shallow and narrow way, the result would not be as deplorable as when the speech is given in an outside group. If one of the speakers the Bahá’is send to an organization proves to be unsatisfactory, that group will forever remain closed to the Cause. What we ought to do is to develop some good speakers and then send them to organizations where the very best type of people can be found.
On the subject of the young people,
also, my friend was right. Out of the
many groups I spoke to, college students
were the most receptive. They
are considered at present, by their elders,
as irresponsible and irreligious individuals,
but the truth is that they[Page 8]
are too broad to conform to any sectarian
form of religion to which their
parents subscribe. Moreover, being
free from dogmas and trained to use
their reason, they are unwilling to accept
anything on mere faith. They
want a religion that would conform to
their reason and, at the same time, satisfy
their spiritual longings. Moreover,
religion has always been the
source of ideals of man. The early
Christians became Christians because
they found in it the hopes and ideals
they craved for. The only reason why
the Churches at present do not attract
man is because they do not provide
the intelligent individual with those
ideals society needs at present. Religion
is meant to be always in the
vanguard; when it begins to drag behind,
society will set it aside, rather
than be encumbered by it. The only
reason why the young students do not
go to Church is because there is nothing
the Churches can give them. The
Churches do not stand any more as
the source of ideas and inspirations,
and that is the reason why the students
do not frequent them. If we
Bahá’is come to the front and, in their
own language and without any exuberant
emotionalism, show them that we
have the breadth of outlook they crave
to see in religion, if we show that our
belief is that science and religion have
to go hand in hand, and that they are
both based on reason and faith; if we
then present them the social ideals
the Bahá’i movement advocates, then
they will run to its support and manifest
the energy that is so characteristic
of the young people as a whole.
But only young people can appeal to young people. With older people, they have a lack of confidence and mutual understanding and, therefore, will not come out with questions so freely. With one of their own age, the case is however different. Moreover, only a young person can appreciate the problems of another young person. I was, one day, mentioning to a grown-up friend of mine some questions put to me by a Bahá’i youth. I soon found that this friend of mine, instead of sympathizing with the problems that the youth had, began to scorn them. To me, however, the case was different; having had those problems to solve myself, I could show greater sympathy and leniency in the matter. Just as a young person cannot appreciate the difficulties of his elders, so grown-up people cannot appreciate the problems of the youth?*
- _________
Ruhi Effendi realizes that the educated Bahá’í youth will make the best appeal to the student body and youth of this country, but he also recognizes the need for the mature experience and teaching of the older Bahá’ís.—Teaching Committee.
But where are these young individuals, who are to carry on this work? I do not know. What renders it more difficult is that any individual who desires to stand and serve the Cause should, in his moral standing and character, as well as in his knowledge, be the purest and noblest exemplar of the Bahá’i teachings. The modern youth does not stand any hypocrisy. You cannot claim to stand for a virtuous life and be far from it yourself. It is true that they do not believe in a religion of ascetism, but neither do the best among them desire to see the leaders of society practice all the corruption and immorality that are the curses of our age. Unless a Bahá’i youth is ready to live up to the standards that the Master has laid for us, and to that extent draw himself above his group, he had better keep away from teaching the Cause. Among other things, the Cause has come to teach us to lead a purer life and, to conform to that, is, I believe, just as important or even more important than prayer. That society permits it, is no excuse, for the leaders of society should be above society, rather than follow it in its evil practices. The more we are under the limelight, the more we have to be careful of our actions.
What I desire to see achieved along that line is that ten young and competent individuals, who are ready to sacrifice two years of their life, should prepare themselves for the work. These should be put under a rigorous course of study for one whole summer. During this time they should, under a competent teacher of the Cause, and also a competent Professor of Social Science, obtain a general view of the Cause in a scientific way and also go deep and specialize along one of the phases of the teachings. Then prepare an essay, showing their competence in presenting the Cause. Once this is achieved, they should be sent from one College to another, to establish centers and study classes. They should not stay, however, for more than two weeks in any center, they should keep on moving and let others come in their place.
During this period, the Teaching Committee should also see that they are keeping up their study. For, unless they read outside books constantly, they are apt to become stale and incapable of standing up to the mark in winning their point while discussing the Cause with the students. One advisable measure is to make it a part of their duty to send regularly an article for the Star of the West on the researches they have been making. Such a group of young teachers should not, however, be kept for more than two or three years. They should be sent to their professions and another group brought in, for not only is it better to have always some new blood, but we will not deprive them from practicing their regular profession.
Another problem which confronts the Cause at present, and which has to be solved, if the Movement is to be spread more rapidly, is the one which revolves around making the meetings more interesting. Though I have not come to any solution myself, I know about some points that may be taken into consideration by the local bodies.
Inter-Assembly Correspondence[edit]
Mention should be made of the several interesting and helpful general letters issued during recent months by various local Bahá’i communities in the United States and Canada.
Writing under date of October 19, 1927, Mrs. Ida A. Finch, secretary of the Seattle Spiritual Assembly, reviewed the activities in that center for the elapsed year. Special reference was made to the services rendered by Mrs. Orcella Rexford, Miss Helen Pilkington, Mrs. Louise Caswell, Dr. Ali-Kuli Khan, N. D., and Dr. Susan I. Moody.
On December 22, the Assembly of Honolulu, through Miss Agnes Alexander, informed the friends of the passing of Dr. George Jacob Augur, who in 1914, at the request of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, journeyed to Japan. Arrivals in Honolulu this year have been Mr. and Mrs. Charles Bishop and Miss Julia Goldman.
Mrs. May Maxwell, secretary, issued a general letter to the Spiritual Assembly of Montreal on December 29, in which we were informed of the good news that the Montreal believers have been able to fulfil their collective portion of the contributions desired of them under the Plan of Unified Action.
The Plan of Unified Action was also discussed in the circular letter recently issued by the believers of Ithaca, through Mrs. Mabel Ives. This letter, in fact, made a thorough analysis of the existing condition of the Fund and advanced recommendations to other American Assemblies which it is hoped have been or will be carefully considered. This most constructive letter is a remarkable example of the results of the loyal consultation upon a problem which cannot be solved by the National Assembly alone.
