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| BAHÁ’Í |  |
NEWS |
| No. 242 | APRIL, 1951 | YEAR 108 | BAHA’I NEWS |
“Midmost Heart of Entire Planet”[edit]
A Message From the Guardian
Announce (to) friends (of) East (and) West (the) following: furnishing Mazraeh, completion (of) restoration (of) historic house (of) Bahá’u’lláh (in) Acre, scene (of) prolonged afflictions sustained (by) Founder (of) Faith, as well as supreme crisis suffered (by) ‘Abdu’l-Bahá (at) hands (of) Covenantbreakers. Greatly enhanced international endowments (in) Holy Land in twin cities (of) Acre (and) Haifa, now include twin Holy Shrines situated (on) plain (of) Acre (and) slope (of) Mount Carmel; twin Mansions (of) Bahjí (and) Mazraeh, twin historic Houses inhabited (by) Bahá’u’lláh (and) ‘Abdu’l-Bahá; twin International Archives adjoining (the) Báb’s Sepulchre (and the) resting-place (of the) Greatest Holy Leaf; twin Pilgrim Houses, constructed (for) Oriental (and) Occidental pilgrims; twin Gardens (of) Riḍván (and) Firdaws, associated (with the) memory (of the) Author (of the) Bahá’í Dispensation.
Greatly welcome assistance (of the) newly-formed International Council, particularly its President, Mason Remey, and (its) Vice-President, Amelia Collins, through contact (with) authorities designed (to) spread (the) fame, consolidate (the) foundations (and) widen (the) scope (of) influence emanating (from the) twin spiritual, administrative World Centers permanently fixed (in the) Holy Land constituting (the) midmost heart (of the) entire planet.
Cablegram received March 2, 1951.
Significant Developments at Bahá’í World Center[edit]
Beloved friends:
Since the Ascension of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in 1921, the Bahá’ís of East and West have lived under the inspiration and guidance poured forth so abundantly through the divinely appointed Guardian. No one can possibly evaluate the Guardian’s influence upon the Faith and upon the world during that time.
Now in his cabled message of March 2, and in his recent messages already published we witness the creation of new facilities which assure an even greater range of expression for that sacred influence. As the message itself states, the International Council has been designed through its contact with civil authorities to spread the fame, consolidate the foundations and widen the scope of the influence emanating from the twin spiritual, administrative World Centers located in the Holy Land.
Moreover, the new facilities now existing at Haifa can relieve the Guardian of the heavy and increasing burden of correspondence and detail which can be delegated to loyal helpers. Whatever affects the work of the Guardian has infinite importance to every believer.
The friends, too, will realize that new developments at the Bahá’í World Center strengthen the basis on which every local Assembly, every committee and every National Assembly stands and confers upon the Bahá’í world community a new and more effective relationship to non-Bahá’ís.
The divine promise that society will be transformed in this dispensation is a spiritual miracle but at the same time requires new institutions through which the divine power can work. What gratitude is ours, that while the old order fails to meet the needs of mankind, the new order rises more impressive, more potent, day by day.
In his latest message the Guardian names the two officers of the International Council, Mr. Charles Mason Remey and Mrs. Amelia E. Collins, whose assistance he greatly and particularly welcomes. Our loving prayers will go forth on their behalf as they press forward in the new, international field of Bahá’í service.
The Guardian likewise enumerates those properties which already represent the Bahá’í World Center and constitute the international endowments of the Faith. To follow the items he lists, the friends will review salient passages in God Passes By and Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era as well as recent cables.
In understanding, knowledge and devotion, Bahá’ís are world citizens, and we must all learn how to keep a balance between the broad vision of the Faith and its inevitable but relatively unimportant local problems.
Kenosha Wins Exemption for Bahá’í School Children[edit]
The Spiritual Assembly of Kenosha wrote the Superintendent of the Public Schools requesting permission for Bahá’í youth and children to remain away on Bahá’í Holy Days. This request was granted in a very courteous letter from the Superintendent, and the local Assembly has also received a copy of a General Circular containing a formal notice that “Children of the Bahá’í World Faith have been granted excuses from school on the Holy Days of their faith.” Eight different dates were specified in the announcement.
The National Assembly commends this action to all Assemblies which have not yet applied to the schools.
Bahá’í Holy Days Recognized In Rhode Island[edit]
From Miss Jeannette Silberman, Secretary of the Regional Teaching Committee for Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Vermont, we learn that the Rhode Island State Department of Civil Service has given recognition to the Bahá’í Holy Days.
As a social worker for the State Department of Social Welfare, Miss Silberman applied to the area supervisor for permission to be absent from work on the Bahá’í Holy Days, and this application was approved.
Temple Model Shipped to Haifa[edit]
At the request of Shoghi Effendi, the National Assembly has sent to him the Temple model which has been on view in Temple Foundation, the only model available at this time.
This model is to be placed in Masra’eh, the mansion now being prepared for pilgrimage.
Since there is need of a model at the Temple for the visitors who will come in increasing numbers, the National Assembly wishes to acquire one and will appreciate hearing from any Assembly able to offer one for the purpose.
Temple Historical Project[edit]
Mr. Allen B. McDaniel has been appointed Historian of the Temple project,—its origin and incidents of the early days, its construction, etc. So inclusive a subject can only be adequately treated with the cooperation of many believers.
Bahá’ís having copies of Tablets, illustrations, photographs, documents, letters or personal recollections which properly belong in the History are requested to write Mr. McDaniel and place the material at his disposal.
Now is the time for us to act so that the glorious record may be perpetuated to future generations. His address is: Waterford, Virginia.
World Religion Day Meetings[edit]
The numerous fine reports of the World Religion Day celebrations throughout the country are being compiled by the Public Relations Committee for the next issue.
View of the Shrine of the Báb and gardens, from photograph received from the Guardian early in March, 1951.
Bahá’í Books Dedicated in Universalist Church[edit]
Some weeks ago a request was received for a copy of a Bahá’í book for use in a Universalist Church at Scranton, Penn., whose minister wished to conduct a service making use of readings from different Scriptures.
A copy of Bahá’í World Faith and a greeting from the National Spiritual Assembly was presented. The minister writes that the copy “was dedicated in a special service yesterday.” He added that some local Bahá’ís had attended the service.
Some of the believers from Rome and Florence gathered in Rome to greet Mrs. Amelia Collins and Mr. Charles Mason Remey who were on their way to Haifa.
Summer School Programs[edit]
Note: The National Spiritual Assembly planned to publish the 1951 programs of all four Schools in the April issue of Bahá’í News. The March issue carried tentative and incomplete announcements for Louhelen, Geyserville and International School in Colorado. The following programs are those received from the School Committees up to March 20.
The dates for the School this summer are as follows:
| First Session: | June 17 through June 30 |
| Registration limited to adults | |
| Second Session: | July 1 through July 14 |
| Third Session: | July 15 through July 28 |
The Children’s Program will be offered during the second and third sessions. Parents planning to bring their children should plan to come during this period.
Opening day, June 17, will be devoted to registration and orientation. Classes will begin Monday morning, June 18, and will continue through the following Sunday, June 24. There will be no classes on Monday, June 25. Classes will resume Tuesday, June 26 and will continue through Saturday, June 30. A similar pattern will be followed during the second and third sessions, with no classes on July 9 or July 23.
Unity Feast will be held under the Big Tree, Sunday, July 1 at noon.
Workshop, seminar, discussion and other methods used in addition to lectures will give students ample opportunity for experience in the particular fields they choose for study. It is suggested that, when possible, students bring with them their own copies of the basic Bahá’í books.
| COURSE I | Parallel Developments in the Bahá’í Faith and in the World at Large |
| A course on the Bahá’í Faith in the stream of history intended
to give the student a better understanding of this period of “universal fermentation.” This is to be a seminar and lecture course with the students responsible for preparing and presenting the Bahá’í history and a number of teachers giving lectures on the historical developments in the world at large, as well as leading the discussions of Bahá’í history for the various periods. Bahá’í books used for reference will include: The Dawn-Breakers, God Passes By, The Promised Day Is Come, and The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh. | |
| COURSE II | Building World Order |
| A workshop intended for Bahá’ís on the present-day Administration of the Faith as the framework of Bahá’í World Order,
which will stress association with the spirit as well as the form of the Administration. The workshop will deal with all aspects of local Bahá’í community life, group, local Assembly, local committees and the State convention. Reference books: The Bahá’í Community, Bahá’í Administration and By-Laws of a Local Spiritual Assembly. | |
| COURSE III | Conference Institute |
| (To be announced) | |
| COURSE IV | Preparing for Teaching |
| This workshop for Bahá’ís will deal with the specific problems
of the students with regard to individual and group teaching, and it will provide opportunity to gain experience through working on projects related to these problems. | |
| COURSE V | Introduction to the Bahá’í Faith |
| A course for inquirers including highlights from Bahá’í
history, an introduction to the Spiritual Teachings and to the Administrative Order. |
Registration of Convention Delegates and Guests[edit]
In order to make registration as convenient as possible this year, the Convention Registration Committee will serve in Temple Foundation the day before the official opening of the 1951 Convention. Delegates and visitors arriving by Friday, April 27, are invited to register on that day to save time during the Convention sessions and to relieve pressure on the Committee during the opening hours of the Convention.
Publishing Announcement[edit]
Four Interested Groups
Four Themes, Four Contacts[edit]
Public interest in a new religious message can be divided into four fields in planning local contacts: those who seek a deeper awareness of God, those who seek to understand the spiritual nature of man, those who strive for better relations between races, and those who would serve the cause of peace.
The Publishing Committee can supply literature specially prepared for meeting public interest on these four levels.
God is Man’s Goal presents an introductory statement and a brief selection of Bahá’í Writings concerning worship and the religious life; Man the Supreme Talisman consists of a statement and Bahá’í selections on mind, soul and spirit; Human Relations for World Unity in a statement and compilation unfolds the principle of the oneness of mankind; The Religion of World Unity offers a statement and selections on World Order.
These pamphlets are teaching tools designed to assist speakers in the preparation of talks or communities in their plans for distributing free literature, or committees preparing public programs carrying a direct and forceful appeal.
These pamphlets are each eight pages in length, with cover and sell at the rate of one set of four for 30c, twenty-five sets (100 pamphlets) for $6.00 or 100 sets (400 pamphlets) $22.50. Any one pamphlet $1.00 for ten.
An active Bahá’í and his wife have a summer camp in East Sullivan, New Hampshire, for children of all races and creeds.
Archives Material[edit]
Because of the exigencies of the times, the National Archives Committee is again appealing to the believers to send for preservation in the archives any Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in their possession, together with translations, originals if possible; letters of the Guardian, photographs and all such sacred and irreplaceable material as is suitable for National Archives. In sending photographs especially, give names, dates and other data.
Send in care of the secretary, Mrs. Gertrude S. Struven, 714 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, Illinois.
Temple Program of Public Meetings[edit]
- April 1—Christ is Risen Indeed!
- Mrs. Sarah Walrath, Chicago
- April 8—Is Permanent Peace Possible? Mr. Monroe Ioas, Berwyn
- April 15—“Out of This World”
- Miss Ruth Westgate, Chicago
- April 22—Thy Kingdom Come
- Mrs. Donna M. Diehl, Flint, Mich.
- May 1—Convention Public Meeting
- Speakers to be announced.
These Sunday afternoon public meetings are always at 3:30.
United Nations Essay Contest[edit]
Members of the Bahá’í community between the ages of 20 and 35 years are free to submit an essay to the 1951 United Nations Essay Contest. The title is, “The United Nations and the Evolution of the Concept of International Solidarity.” Length of essay—approximately 2000 words.
Believers who prepare material for this contest are to send the text to the United Nations Committee, through Mrs. Mildred R. Mottahedeh, 225 Fifth Avenue, New York, by May 15.
There will be 10 prizes awarded, distributed among the winners from Europe, Latin America, Canada, the Middle East and Africa, Australia and New Zealand. Bahá’ís resident in any of these areas are eligible. Citizens of the United States are not eligible for the prizes.
(Summer School Programs: Geyserville, Cont’d.)[edit]
Additional Courses[edit]
| COURSE A | Backgrounds of Christianity |
| A series of talks on the historical background of early Christianity, including the political, economic and cultural movements in Judea and Palestine from 300 B.C. to the founding of the early Christian Church. References include: The Bible, King James and Goodspeed translations; The Dartmouth Bible; The Bible and the Common Reader, by Mary Ellen Chase; Background of the Life of Jesus, by W. H. Oldaker; Toward the Understanding of Jesus, by Vladimir G. Simkhovitch; Paul, by Edgar Goodspeed. | |
| COURSE B | Steps in Spiritual Development |
| A course on the Spiritual Teachings of the Bahá’í Faith including: The Purpose of Creation, The Oneness of God, The Relationship of Man to God, The Holy Spirit, Prayer and Meditation and other aspects of the Teachings. | |
| COURSE C | Progressive Religion |
| A comparative study of religions showing their relationships and tracing their effect on the history of mankind. |
July 1 Through July 28 Only
Children’s classes will be given daily from 9:00 a.m. to noon, except for one day each week, following the pattern for adult’s courses. The general theme of the children’s program will be: Preparing to be Bahá’í Teachers.
- Junior Youth (12 to 15 years)
- I Bahá’í History
- II Living the Life
- Junior Youth (12 to 15 years)
- Intermediate High (10 to 12 years)
- I Progressive Revelation
- II Living the Life
- Intermediate High (10 to 12 years)
- Intermediate Low (8 to 10 years)
- I Four Kingdoms
- II Living the Life
- Intermediate Low (8 to 10 years)
- Primary (6 to 8 years)
- I Stories of Jesus, Moses, the Báb, Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
- Primary (6 to 8 years)
In addition to these courses, there will be classes in music, art and handcrafts, Experience in using the library will be given to the older children.
Supervised recreational activities for children and youth will be organized in the afternoons and early evenings. These will include swimming (water conditions in the Russian River permitting), picnics, games, movies, dancing and other activities.
Rates per week for room, breakfast, lunch and dinner:
| Adults | Children | |
| 6 to 12 yrs. incl. | ||
| Collins Dormitory: | ||
Downstairs | $35.00 | $28.00 |
Upstairs: Women and girls | 30.00 | 24.50 |
John Bosch Hall: |
||
Men and boys | 28.00 | 21.00 |
Rooms — Transient Rates: |
||
Collins Dormitory: |
||
Downstairs | $2.50 per night each person | |
Room 13 (5 beds) | 2.00 per night each person | |
Upstairs | 1.50 per night each person | |
John Bosch Hall: | $1.50 per night each person | |
Meals only: |
||
Breakfast | $1.00 | |
Lunch | 1.00 | |
Dinner | 2.00 | |
[Page 5]
In addition to the above charges, there will be a registration fee of $1.00
for each student for each period of from 4 to 14 days spent at the school.
This is to help cover the cost of mimeographed syllabi, working materials
for the children’s program and administrative expense.
Requests for reservations should be accompanied by deposits and sent not later than June 10, 1951 to Mr. Alfred Zahl, Secretary of Maintenance Committee, 826 West Grant Place, San Mateo, California.
SEASON: July 9 - September 1, 1951
| Dates | Courses | Teachers |
|---|---|---|
| June 16 - | Youth Camp | (for information write to Dr. David Ruhe |
| July 1 | 41 Center Dr., Old Greenwich, Conn. | |
| July 6-7 | Area and Regional Teaching Conference | Northeastern Area Teaching Committee |
| July 9-21 | Epistle to the Son of the Wolf | ———— |
| Effective Study of Bahá’í Writings (7/9-14) | Horace Holley | |
| Prophecies | Mrs. Helen Archambault 7/16-21 | |
| Introduction to the Bahá’í Faith | Mrs. Helen Archambault 7/9-14 | |
| Mrs. Hazel Langrall 7 /16-21 | ||
| North America’s Role in World Destiny | Mrs. Terah Covart-Smith | |
| Public Relations | Alfred Reed | |
| Guidance in Individual Study Projects | Dr. Glenn Shook | |
| Religion, the Source of Civilization | Mrs. Elsa Blakely | |
| Public Meetings, Firesides and Study Classes | Northeastern Area Teaching Committee | |
| July 23 - Aug. 4 | Islám | ———— |
| The Promised Day Is Come | Della Quinlan 7/23-28 | |
| Mrs. Rosemary Sala 7/30-8/4 | ||
| Introduction to the Bahá’í Faith | Mrs. Hazel Langrall 7/30-8/4 | |
| Mrs. Enid McComb 7/30-8/4 | ||
| Bahá’í Administration | Grace Cody | |
| John Leonard | ||
| Thom West | ||
| Writing for Bahá’í Publications (7/23-28) | Keith DeFolo | |
| Current Events in the Light of the Bahá’í Faith (7/30-8/4) | Emeric Sala | |
| Guidance in Individual Study Projects | Dr. Glenn Shook | |
| Religious Backgrounds in America | ||
| Problems of Bahá’í Parents | Mrs. Kit Goldstein | |
| Dr. Genevieve Coy | ||
| Effective Speaking | Mrs. Terah Covart-Smith 7/23-7/28 | |
| John Honnold 7/30-8/4 | ||
| Aug. 6-18 | Deepening in Spiritual Understanding | Mrs. Joy Earl |
| Three Messages from the Guardian | Borrah Kavelin | |
| Introduction to the Bahá’í Faith | Mrs. Polly Marlowe |
Bahá’í Speaker at Flatbush Unitarian Church[edit]
At the invitation of Rev. Karl M. Chworowsky, pastor of the Flatbush Unitarian Church, Mr. William DeForge delivered a Bahá’í talk on “Unity” on Sunday, February 18th, marking the beginning of Brotherhood Week.
The church had a very large crowd, composed primarily of Bahá’ís and their friends, all of whom were very warmly greeted by Rev. Chworowsky.
Mr. DeForge’s talk was very well received by the audience and the hope was expressed that he would return soon to give another Bahá’í talk. Rev. Chworowsky said in conclusion that it was really difficult to determine “if the Unitarians were Bahá’ís or the Bahá’ís were Unitarians, since they both share the same ideals concerning the principle of Brotherhood.”
This is the same church in which ‘Abdu’l-Bahá spoke when he visited New York City in 1912.
Kodachrome Temple Card[edit]
The friends will be glad to learn that a new postcard of the Temple is available, an exact reproduction of a Kodachrome photograph. This is a very attractive card. Price—25 for $1.00; 50 for $2.00; 100 for $3.50, postpaid. Write H. E. Walrath, Sales Committee, 4639 Beacon Street, Chicago, 40, Illinois.
Calendar[edit]
- April 9—19 Day Feast of Jalál (Glory)
- April 21—Local Elections
- April 21-May 2—Riḍván
- April 28—19 Day Feast of Jamál (Beauty)
- April 28—Convention
- Riḍván Feast (evening)
- April 23, 29, 30 and May 1—Convention
- May 17—19 Day Feast of ‘Aẓamat (Grandeur)
Correction[edit]
In the Temple report for the February, 1951 News, there was an error. In the second paragraph it reads “From the date of October 16th 1950.” This should be corrected to read 1949.
Marriages[edit]
West Englewood, N. J., Miss Daris Raymond to Mr. Ernest Bostelmann (non-Bahá’í) (date not reported)
Milwaukee, Wis., Miss Eleanor Masshardt to Mr. Norman Morgan (non-Bahá’í) Feb. 10, 1951
Hinsdale, N. H., Miss Lorraine M. Gove to Mr. Francis Stetson (non-Bahá’í) (date not reported)
Maywood, Ill., Miss Bernita Gleason to Mr. Robert B. Amerson Feb. 10, 1951
Manila, P.I., Miss Nina K. Howard to Mr. Harold T. Nadler (non-Bahá’í) Feb. 9, 1951
Directory Additions and Changes[edit]
Regional Teaching Committees:
- CONN., SO. NEW YORK
- Miss Janet Deats, Sec’y.
|
Bahá’í Addresses
National Office:
Treasurer’s Office:
Make Checks Payable to:
National Bahá’í Fund Bahá’í Publishing Committee:
Make checks for books and pamphlets payable to: Bahá’í Publishing Committee
Bahá’í News Editorial Office:
|
- 36 Claremont Pl.
- Mt. Vernon, New York
Local Spiritual Assemblies:
- WASHINGTON, D. C.
- Mrs. Alice Dudley, Sec’y.
- 900 19th St., Apt. 116
PORTLAND, ORE.
- Mrs. Marion C. Munson, Sec’y.
- 3636 No. East Simpson St., Zone 11
SAN DIEGO, CALIF.
- Mrs. Gladys Loudon, Sec’y.
- 930 Cotton st.
In Memoriam[edit]
Death proffereth unto every confident believer the cup that is life indeed. It bestoweth joy and is the bearer of gladness. It conferreth the gift of everlasting life.
- Dr. Mayme Starr, Oklahoma City, Okla. May 11, 1950
- Mrs. Maude Platt, Highland Park, Mich. Feb. 2, 1951
- Mrs. Johanna Nordquist, Seattle, Wash. Feb. 7, 1951
- Mr. Charles A. Butler, Santa Barbara, Calif. Feb. 7, 1951
- Mrs. Jane D. King, Roseville, Mich. Feb. 23, 1951
(Summer School Programs: Green Acre, Cont’d.)[edit]
| Young Adult | Religion, the Source of Civilization | Challoner Chute |
| Weeks | What Can I Do Best? | Dr. Genevieve Coy |
| Guidance in Individual Study Projects | Dr. Glenn Shook | |
| Effective Use of Bahá’í Writings | Helen Campbell | |
| How to Use Radio in Local Teaching | National Radio Committee | |
| Effective Speaking | ———— | |
| Aug. 20- | North America’s Role in | |
| Sept. 1 | World Destiny | David Earl |
| Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh Tarázát, Tajallíyát, Ishráqát, Glad Tidings (8/20-25) | ———— | |
| To the Pope, the Shah, and Queen Victoria (8/27-9)/1) | ———— | |
| Introduction to the Bahá’í Faith | Helen Campbell | |
| Bahá’í Administration | Mrs. Amy Raubitschek | |
| Reading Aloud and Bahá’í Chairmanship | Lowell Johnson | |
| Guidance in Individual Study Projects | Dr. Glenn Shook | |
| Immortality (8/20-25) | Mrs. Elsa Blakely | |
| Teaching Bahá’í Classes for children | Mrs. Edith McLaren | |
| Current Events in the Light of the Bahá’í Faith (8/20-25) | Mrs. Mildred Mottahedeh | |
| Writing for Bahá’í Publications (8/27-9/1) | Marzieh Gail | |
| All Season | Children’s School (for ages 3-14) |
Registrations: Mr. Wyatt Cooper, Green Acre, Eliot, Maine
The Green Acre Committee will be glad to be informed of trained librarians who will be at Green Acre for any part of the summer and who would be willing to give some assistance in the Library.
Sessions—July 14 to August 18
Schedule of Activities —
- Each week classes will begin Sunday and run through Friday.
- Saturday is the day of arrival and departure.
- A public meeting will be held every Sunday at 4 P.M., supper will be served at 6 P.M.
- For those remaining for more than one week, Saturday will be for sightseeing.
- Each evening at 8 P.M. will be devoted to the Cultures of the World and History of the Bahá’í Faith.
| July 15 — | 9:15-10:30 A.M. | European and African Pioneering |
| 10:45-12:00 A.M. | The Promised Day is Come | |
| 2:00-3:00 P.M. | Workshop, Presenting the Bahá’í Faith, through radio, firesides, public talks, personal contacts. | |
| July 22 — | 9:15-10:30 A.M. | Administration. |
| 10:45-12:00 A.M. | The Divine Art of Living. | |
| 2:00-3:00 P.M. | Workshop, Presenting the Bahá’í Faith, through radio, firesides, public talks, personal contacts. | |
| July 29 — | 9:15-10:30 A.M. | Analysis of Bahá’í Literature and Its Use. |
| 10:45-12:00 A.M. | The Promised Day Is Come. | |
| 2:00-3:00 P.M. | Workshop, Presenting the Bahá’í Faith, through radio, firesides, public talks, personal contacts. | |
| August 5 — | 9:15-10:30 A.M. | Comparative Religion. |
| 10:45-12:00 A.M. | The Divine Art of Living. | |
| 2:00-3:00 P.M. | Workshop, Presenting the Bahá’í Faith, through radio, firesides, public talks, personal contacts. | |
| August 12 — | 9:15-10:30 A.M. | Latin America |
| 10:45-12:00 A.M. | The Promised Day Is Come. | |
| 2:00-3:00 P.M. | Workshop, Presenting the Bahá’í Faith, through radio, firesides, public talks, personal contacts. |
Regional Day will be held July 29, under auspices of R.T.C. Wyoming and Colorado.
Rates:
- Room and Board, $35.00 per week, during Sessions July 14 to August 18.
- School will be open July 1 to September 4, Room and Board per day, $6.00.
- For Reservations write to Mrs. Margaret Ford, P.O. Box 1003, Colorado Springs, Colo.
- School is located 10 miles north of Colorado Springs, Highway 85-87. Air, train, and bus schedules supplied on request. Transportation to School from Colorado Springs will be $1.00
- The Pikes Peak Region offers unsurpassed recreational opportunities.
- Regional Conference and Workshop on teaching problems peculiar to the Rocky Mountain and Plains Area will begin August 19.
| Courses | Teachers |
|---|---|
| JUNIOR YOUTH SESSION I (Ages 10-14 incl.) July 1-6 incl. | |
| Living the Life | Edna Ketels |
| Bahá’í Heroes | Laura Markovich |
| Comparative Religions | Eulie Horne |
| Crafts and Recreation | Robert Markovich |
| JUNIOR YOUTH SESSION II (Ages 10-14 incl.) July 8-13 incl. | |
| Living the Life | Eunice Shurcliff |
| Bahá’í Heroes | Wilma Ridley |
| Comparative Religions | Ella Eaton |
| Crafts and Recreation | John Shurcliff |
| GENERAL SESSION I July 15-20 incl. | |
| The Kitáb-í-Iqán | Harry Jay |
| The Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh | Florence Reeb |
| Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá | Elizabeth Cheney |
| GENERAL SESSION II July 22-27 incl. | |
| Seven Valleys, Hidden Words | Margery McCormick |
| The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh | Archie Tichenor |
| Foundations of World Unity | Elizabeth Cheney |
| GENERAL SESSION III July 29-August 3 incl. | |
| Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh | |
| God Passes By | Horace Holley |
| Bahá’í World Faith | Alice Bacon |
| GENERAL SESSION IV August 5-10 incl. | |
| Prayers and Meditations | Terah Covart-Smith |
| Advent of Divine Justice | Ellsworth Blackwell |
| The Reality of Man | Harlan Ober |
Living the Bahá’í Life: Assemblies[edit]
|
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. It is edited by Bahá’í News Editorial Committee: Mrs. Eleanor Hutchens, Mrs. Mabel Paine, Mrs. Doris Fincham. Editorial Office: Mrs. Eleanor Hutchens, 307 S. Prairie, Champaign, Illinois. Please report changes of address and other matters pertaining to distribution to the Bahá’í National Office, 536 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, Illinois. |
It is my hope that the meetings of the Bahá’í Assembly in New York shall become like meetings of the Supreme Concourse. When you assemble you must reflect the lights of the heavenly kingdom. Let your hearts be as mirrors in which the radiance of the Sun of Reality is visible. Each bosom must be a telegraph station; one terminus of the wire attached to the soul, the other fixed in the Supreme Concourse, so that inspiration may descend from the kingdom of Abhá and questions of reality be discussed. Then opinions will coincide with truth; day by day there will be progression and the meetings become more radiant and spiritual. This attainment is conditioned upon unity and agreement. The more perfect the love and agreement, the more the divine confirmations and assistance of the Blessed Perfection will descend. May this prove to be a divine meeting and may boundless bestowals come down upon you. Strive with all your hearts and with the very power of life that unity and love may continually increase. In discussions look toward the reality without being self-opinionated. Let no one assert and insist upon his own mere opinion; nay, rather, let each investigate the reality with the greatest love and fellowship. Consult upon every matter and when one presents the point of view of the reality itself, that shall be acceptable to all. Then will spiritual unity increase among you, individual illumination will be greater, happiness more abundant and you will draw nearer and nearer to the kingdom of God.
Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 178
New Facilities at Louhelen[edit]
A joint session of both the maintenance and program committees of the Louhelen Bahá’í Summer School was held at the Bagley home in Flint, Mich., on March 4, 1951, to finalize plans for this summer’s activities. A tentative program was published in the March issue of Bahá’í News.
One decision made by the committees will be of particular interest to the believers who have families: provisions are to be made for nursery facilities at all sessions to provide for the care of children four years old or older so that their parents can attend classes unmolested by the small fry. It will be necessary to charge for this service, of course, but rates will probably be half scale.
The program committee would like to emphasize again that all classes have been built around specific Bahá’í texts and that the believers are urged to bring their own copies to school. A listing of the books involved is included in the schedule printed this month. The aim of the school will be to carry out the Guardian’s admonition to the committee: “You should aim at a profound study of the Faith, and not mere wide, but superficial, surveys.”
The maintenance committee is faced with a great many problems this year. We hope to have improved facilities (hot water in the showers, if present plans materialize) this year but they all entail expense and effort. It is planned to schedule one or more week ends, probably in April and May, for general clean-up operations at the school. The committee will certainly appreciate a good turnout of all available help for this purpose. Further publicity will be issued on this matter.
Any questions, registrations, offers of aid, etc., should be addressed to Mr. and Mrs. Clinton Wideman, 3196 S. State Rd., Davison, Mich., who will be joint managers of the Louhelen School.
Milwaukee. 125 Bahá’ís from the communities surrounding Milwaukee came to see the dramatization of the newer version of Ruhiyyah Rabbani’s play, The Divine Spark, which describes Bahá’í community life.
| GENERAL SESSION X August 12-17 incl. | |
| Epistle to the Son of the Wolf | Marzieh Gail |
| A God-Given Mandate, The Citadel of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh, Challenging Requirements of the Present Hour | John Roberts |
| Some Answered Questions | Curtis Kelsey |
| SENIOR YOUTH SESSION (Ages 15-20 incl.) August 19-24 incl. | |
| Compilation of Excerpts on the Covenant and Administration | Richard Nolen |
| Prescription for Living | Marguerite True |
| Dawn Breakers | Marzieh Gail |
| YOUNG ADULT SESSION August 26-31 incl. | |
| The Promised Day Is Come | Borah Kavelin |
| The Divine Art of Living | Elsie Austin |
| Bahá’í World Faith | Audrey Windheiser |
HOMECOMING SESSION September 2-3 Labor Day Week-End
- Consultation — Inspiration — Fellowship — Entertainment
INSTITUTES and informal DISCUSSIONS on current Bahá’í problems will be included at every session, as well as RECREATION.
PLEASE bring the TEXTS listed for the session or sessions you expect to attend, or books may be purchased at the school.
EACH SESSION will open with a Saturday evening social gathering. Classes will begin Sunday morning, continuing daily through Friday. Public Meetings will be held every Sunday afternoon at 3:00 P.M.
RATES — For room and meals, per person per day:
Adults: Single room | $4.00 |
Double room | 3.00 |
Dormitory | 2.50 |
Cottage, double | 3.75 |
Cottage, single | 5.00 |
Youth at Youth Sessions only | 2.25 |
RESERVATIONS should designate:
- Session or sessions in which you wish to enroll.
- Type of accommodations preferred. (If you wish transportation arranged from Flint or Davison, give exact date, time and place of your expected arrival.)
- WRITE TO: Registrar:
- Louhelen Bahá’í School,
- 3208 S. State Road,
- Davison, Michigan
Inter-America Committee[edit]
Fifty-four elected delegates plan to attend the first Conventions of Latin America, to be held in Panama City, Panama, and Lima, Peru, April 22-24. Four members of the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States will be present at these historic occasions. The Conventions will be followed by schools and general teaching conference. The following agendas have been planned, and attendance is open to both Latin and North American believers who find it possible to be there.
Theme — “Year of Dedication”
Daily Schedule:
- Devotional meeting, 9:00-9:15 A.M.
- Morning Session, 9:15 A.M.-12:00 Noon
- Noon Prayer Period (silent)-12:00 Noon
- Afternoon Session, 2:30-5:30 P.M.
- Evening Meeting, 8:15 P.M.
(First Day, April 22, 1951)
8:15 P.M. — Feast of Riḍván and Welcome to Delegates and Visitors.
9:00-9:15 A.M. — Devotions
[Page 9]
9:15-12:00 Noon
- Opening Business
Prayer and opening of the Convention by the presiding officer of the NSA.
Roll Call of Delegates.
Election of Permanent Convention Officers.
Message from the Inter-America Committee. - Reading and Discussion of Message from Shoghi Effendi.
- Appointment of Committee for Convention Message to the Guardian.
12:00 Noon
- Prayer, (silent)
2:30 P.M. to 5:30 P.M.
- Adoption of Convention Message to the Guardian.
- Report of Teaching Committee.
- Teaching Plans for 1951-1952.
- What was most successful in this year’s campaign?
- Planning for future Institutes and Schools.
- Developing new literature and study aids.
- The Institution of the National Fund.
8:15 P.M. — Presentation of Gift Film of Haifa from the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States.
9:00-9:15 A.M. Devotions.
9:15 A.M.-12.00 Noon
- Election of National Spiritual Assembly.
- Our Mission in the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh (Discussion).
- Teaching by Local Assemblies. (By delegates)
- What teaching suggestions can your Assembly make to your National Spiritual Assembly?
- What general suggestions?
- What local goals can your Assembly advise for 1951-’52?
12:00 Noon
- Prayer. (Silent)
2:30-5:30 P.M.
- Announcement of National Assembly Election.
- Presentation of the elected members by Convention Chairman.
- Acclamation of the new National Spiritual Assembly by the Bahá’í World Community and by representatives of the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States.
- Photographs (Indoor)
- Convention, with Bahá’í visitors.
- Delegates, without visitors.
- National Assembly.
8:15 P.M.
- Discussion special subjects voted by the delegates.
- Summary by Convention Secretary.
- Closing of Convention by Convention Chairman.
Daily Schedule:
| 9:00-9:15 A.M. — | Devotional meeting. |
| 9:15-10:30 A.M. — | First Class under the guidance of the Inter-America Committee: |
| Theme: “The Messages of the Guardian to Latin America” | |
| 10:45-12:00 Noon — | Second Class under the guidance of the IAC: Theme: “God Passes By” with background from the “Dawn Breakers” |
| 12:00 Noon — | Prayer. (Silent) |
| 2:30-5:00 P.M. — | Teaching Conference (under the direction of CEBMA in
Panama and of CEBSA in Lima, Peru) |
| This Conference does not consist of classes, but is the discussion during two days, April 26 and 27, of the following themes: |
This exhibit was in the Portsmouth, N. H, Library
Individual Portsmouth, N.H.
Bahá’ís are writing to isolated believers throughout the state telling
them about community plans, inviting them to meetings, and establishing personal contacts. They hope
that every isolated believer will
have received a letter from every
active member of the community
by the end of the year.
The Pennsylvania Regional Committee held the first Bahá’í public meeting in Coatesville at the Coach and Four Inn on Jan. 14th. William Sears spoke on “A Religion for this Atomic Age” and Mrs. Annamarie Honnold acted as chairman. In spite of a blizzard, 35 people attended. A followup discussion was held in Coatesville on January 25th.
Butte, Montana, friends are having a zinc etching of the Temple to be used with quotations in the cheaper classified section of the daily newspaper under the fraternal section at the rate of 9c per line.
Leo Kottas was invited to speak on the Faith before a Helena church society.
Fresno, California, Bahá’ís hold monthly public meetings with an average attendance of 40. Mrs. Mamie Seto spoke on “Divine Guidance in World Affairs” and Dr. John Stroessler on “The Greatest Gift to Mankind”. At Palo Alto, Leroy Ioas spoke to more than 100 people on “World Thinking for World People”.
[Page 10]
Denver Bahá’ís gave a program of music and readings for the Home
for Adult Blind in Denver. They told about Bahá’í books available in Braille. Friends at Colorado Springs had a novel farewell party for Mrs. Loulie Mathews and Miss Ophelia Crum who were sailing for the West Indies. Each guest brought a secret ingredient for the soup, according to an old Chinese custom.
Englewood Bahá’ís have an “Each one bring one” supper once a month to introduce the Faith to new people. The regular study classes and firesides are announced for those who wish to return for more information. At the New Year’s Eve party, guests were so interested in what Miss Beatrice Irwin told them about the Faith that they didn’t want to stop to play the games that had been planned. The discussion lasted well past midnight.
Fred Schechter spoke over the Syracuse University Radio Station on January third as a followup to the Life Magazine article on the Faith. He has been asked to give another radio talk later in the winter. Lowell Johnson was asked to speak before the Lions Club of Syracuse as a result of the State Fair Exhibit.
In Peoria, reviews of books of current interest have been advertised widely. Refreshments are served. Sufficient interest has been aroused to start a fireside.
Portland, Maine. For the second time the same minister mentioned the Faith in a sermon. His sermon: “From Moses Toward the World Faith of Bahá’u’lláh.”
Newton, Massachusetts. Dr. Manucher Javid spoke to a combined meeting of about 75 young people of the Congregational, Methodist and Episcopal churches.
At right:
First progress picture of the ornamentation of the dome interior — February 26, 1951. A temporary flooring has been laid across the bottom of the dome in order to carry on this work efficiently and safely.
Below:
Jessie and Ethel Revell, 2nd and 3rd from the left, aboard the SS LaGuardia with the New York Bahá’ís who came to see them off.
- (Inter-America, Cont’d.)
| 1 — “Preparation for Membership in the Bahá’í Community”. | |
| 2 — Public Teaching—the art of attracting new people to the Teachings. | |
| 3 — Teaching by Radio, Visual Aids and Displays. | |
| 4 — Teaching our Children. | |
| 5 — Intimate Teaching Classes and the Art of Confirming the Students. | |
| 6 — Youth Activities. | |
| 2:30-5:00 P.M. — | April 25. Free from set programs, so that delegates may arrange their passage home and go sightseeing. |
| 8:15 P.M. April 25 — | Public Meeting. |
| 8:15 P.M. April 26 — | Presentation of gift films from Inter-America Com. |
| 8:15 P.M. April 27 — | Formal Closing of the Convention School. |
The newly elected National Spiritual Assemblies will confer during the school and conference period, and North American Assembly members plan to remain for a part of the consultation.
[Page 11]
World Religion Day in Lima, Peru
Speakers for the panel, “Progress I’ve Seen toward Brotherhood” sponsored by the Bahá’ís of Champaign-Urbana, listen to the Negro choir which sing before the discussion.
Students from ‘Iráq and British Guiana are being served punch at the Champaign-Urbana Brotherhood meeting. Students from ten countries attended.
Bahá’ís of Maui, T. H., receive a fifteen minute free broadcast each month over station KMVI. Before each broadcast an ad is placed in the daily newspaper, 70 postcards are mailed, and spot announcements are made over the radio. The friends have been setting aside pennies or nickels or dimes and bringing them to Feasts to contribute to a “Thankful” Fund. In three months $17 extra was collected for the Victory Fund in this way.
In Boise, Idaho, a symposium was held in the Blue Room of the Owyhee Hotel on “What Is This Faith Called Bahá’í?” Speakers presented the following topics: “Its Identity with and Distinction from Other Religions”, “Its History and Aims”, “Its Proofs of Authority”, and “Its Offering to You as an Individual”. In November there were 10 firesides in Boise.
The Oregon Regional Teaching Committee plans a survey of colleges in Oregon to determine how many have courses in comparative religions, what religions are included, what books are used, and whether any Bahá’í books are in the library. Wherever possible these contacts will be made in person.
Prince Georges County, Maryland. Within an area of 10 miles, eight isolated believers had been working independently and making no progress. In 1949, these eight decided to work jointly on Feasts and regular firesides. Soon 5 non-Bahá’ís were attending. The State Convention was held in Riverdale (one of the area towns), and a member of the group was elected delegate to the National Convention. In 1950, they decided to function as a group with a chairman. Five new believers were attracted. Two big public meetings showed evidences of receiving attention from non-Bahá’ís, including ministers, and another new believer was received.
Charleston, West Virginia. As a finale to a series of sketches of the city’s churches and denominations, the Charleston Gazette wrote of the Bahá’í Faith. A separate article covered the history of the assembly in that city and included a picture of the local assembly.
Salt Lake City, Utah. Mrs. Helga Johnson was interviewed about the Faith on a television show.
Around the Bahá’í World[edit]
(The following news items were taken from the Geneva Bureau News Exchange)
BRITISH ISLES
At a one day conference held in London members of the Africa Committee consulted together with 2 non-Bahá’í authorities and a young African on the far-reaching aspects of introducing the Faith in this vast field. Africa’s need for a spiritual contribution, the aspirations of modern Africa, and Africa’s languages were discussed.
A pioneer offer for the African field has been received from Dr. A. Afnan. Claire Gung was to leave as the first pioneer on January 3 for Tanganyika, where she has taken a job as Assistant Matron at a school in the Lushoto Mountains, 150 miles from Dares Salaam. Claire asks for the prayers of the whole Bahá’í Community.
“The mere act of launching upon so glorious, so fateful an enterprise,” assures the Guardian, “will of necessity create at this propitious hour the receptivity which will enable a swiftly marching, stout-hearted, virile Community, now standing on the threshold of its mission beyond the seas, to attract a fresh measure of celestial potency adequate to its growing needs and its ever-expanding responsibilities.”
GERMANY
Youth Winter Camp was held January 1-7 in Badener Hohe, with skiing, tobogganing, games, etc. “Winter evenings are long, but not for us! — there are so many questions about God and the world in the minds and hearts of young folks, and we can all sing and play too.”
The Statistical Department of Württemberg District drew the attention of the German NSA to the fact that the Bahá’í religion was registered among the twelve confessions mentioned in the census form, and advised that the Bahá’ís register as such. The German NSA mentions this in the German Newsletter with deep satisfaction as a milestone in the history of the Faith in that country marking an important step towards its recognition by the State ... on an equal basis with other faiths.
The Berlin friends have been asked by the NSA not to send anything to the Eastern Zone, not even letters. Thus some letters sent in their care, are still held, waiting for better times.
CANADA
The Canadian Bahá’í News gives an interesting and helpful account of opportunities for Bahá’í teachers among the Eskimos, of whom there are 6,000 in the Eastern, and 1500 in the Western Arctic. The Eskimos have a friendly attitude toward white people, and are receptive to outside teachings. The Eskimo Committee recommends that Bahá’ís who are already trained as teachers, especially welfare teachers, apply for positions as teachers under the Government, and that Bahá’í youth who wish to serve the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh among the Eskimos be encouraged to enter the teaching profession with emphasis on welfare teaching. For those who volunteer there will be many recompenses:
- They will have the greatest opportunity to present the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh in a virgin area.
- They will have a unique experience among a people who are loved by those who have had intimate contact with them.
- They will be well paid for the normal duties required of them. There will be no need for financial assistance from the National fund.
World Religion Day display at Coburn Library, Colorado College, Colorado Springs, showing the page devoted to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá when he spoke at Stanford University in Palo Alto in 1912.
