The National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is
of the United States and Canada
A NEW BAHA’I YEAR[edit]
The glorious spirit of unity and constructive action marked the peak of spiritual progress in the Cause in America at the sessions of the Twenty-second Annual Convention. The Temple Foundation Hall became indeed a “Temple of Light” manifesting the Bahá’í principles of joyful consultation and loving cooperation.
While the outgoing National Spiritual Assembly was re-elected, as regards its personnel, its first meeting at the Evanston Hotel, immediately following the Convention, demonstrated an old body renewed. Following an inspiring discussion of several hours, the Assembly adopted an administrative plan and policy that would seem to be in accord with our Guardian’s wishes for the efficient and harmonious functioning of our national activities during the coming year.
Outstanding among the features of the new administration plan is the Secretariat, which will comprise members working in cooperation; Mr. Alfred E. Lunt, who will handle Bahá’í correspondence in America; Mrs. Stuart W. French, who will conduct the international Bahá’í correspondence and communications with sources outside the Cause. Mr. Horace Holley will serve as editor of the NEWS LETTER and handle special articles. The office of the Secretariat will be located at Evergreen Cabin, West Englewood, N. J., which will also be the office of the National Treasurer, Mr. Roy Wilhelm, Through the far-sighted thoughtfulness and generosity of Mr. Wilhelm, we have an administrative center on ground consecrated by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá on June 28, 1912.
The crowning feature of our national activities this year will be the building of the Temple. The Research Service, Inc., the technical representatives of the Temple trustees, is pushing the preliminary work involving the completion of the architectural detail plans and specifications, the preparation of the structural, mechanical and electrical plans and specifications, and studies for the improvement and landscaping of the Temple property. The present tentative schedule contemplates the completion of plans and specifications by July 1, 1930, the awarding of contracts by August 1, 1930, and the completion of the framework of the superstructure of the Temple by the end of this calendar year.
The building of the Temple is arousing a gradually increasing public interest in this beautiful symbol of the New Era and in the Cause. Early provision must be made to supply information and to present the teachings and significance of the New World Order to an inquiring host of people. Your National Spiritual Assembly is planning to enlarge and emphasize the teaching work and to establish and operate an efficient program of public relations and publicity. As Shoghi Effendi has so often indicated, all of our activities are but phases of teaching: the carrying of the Message into the hearts and lives of the people.
We are on the threshold of a new era of activity and achievement of the Cause in America. Let us arise with a renewed spirit of loving unity to carry on the blessed work of the Cause in the true spirit of those recent thrilling words of our beloved Guardian:
“Ours is the duty to ponder these things in our hearts, to strive to widen our vision, and to deepen our comprehension of this Cause, and to arise, resolutely and unreservedly, to play our part, however small, in this greatest drama of the world’s spiritual history.”
TWENTY-SECOND ANNUAL CONVENTION[edit]
Reported by Louis G. Gregory
“The birds are singing among the rose branches, like angels of the highest Heaven announcing the glad tidings of that spiritual springtime and the sweet music of their voices is causing the real essence of all things to move and quiver.”
Only the Words of God, creative and divine, suffice to describe the attraction and power which directed the Twenty-second Annual Convention held in the foundation of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár at Wilmette, April 25 to 27, 1930. It has been our joy to witness many conventions; but never one in which the might of God to a greater degree proved itself. All methods fail save His method. All power is dissolved into nothingness before His supreme power. All voices are silenced save those of sincere hearts which echo and re-echo His Word. It is to be still and to know that verily “He is God.”
It is customary to open each session
of the convention with prayer. But
this time the prayer was followed by
beautiful music in each case. It was
music born of divine love in which
hearts sang even sweeter than the voices.
The Oriental chants, the original melodies
and words, especially prepared for
this occasion by local friends, the prelude
has now added to the benediction
which has lent its spiritual fragrance
to so many gatherings, transported us
to heavenly realms. Add to this a room
attractive through its simplicity and
comfort, the walls adorned with Persian
rugs, a well nigh tropical luxuriance
of flowers, the presence of attar
of rose which so subtly and delightfully
reveals its presence, and the
priceless gift of our Guardian which
took outward form in the magnificent
rug from the sacred shrine of Bahá’u’lláh.
Also, there must be added the
expectant, eager faces of a large company
of delegates and friends, distinguished
in courtesy, full of good
humor, bringing to bear sanity, judgment,
moderation and insight in their
consultation; the enthusiastic reports
from various committees, the sense of
elation over the success of this period
of service with a well defined movement
toward the coveted goal; yet
above all the majestic voice of revelation
which descended from the supreme
horizon through the luminous epistle
[Page 2]
of the Guardian. He in his further
consideration given to the new world
order of Bahá’u’lláh, from his blessed
source of illumination sent forth a document
so majestic in its expression, so
clarifying in its teaching, so energizing
in its note of triumph, that we are
overwhelmed with the certain knowledge
that in this great Day of God divine
revelation is ceaseless in its flow.
This great document which was read
to the convention among other things
portrayed the cleansing fire of tests
enkindled by the ignorant and which
must separate the sincere from the
insincere; the unique features of the
program of Bahá’u’lláh, the supplementary
strength of the Master’s Will
in creating and molding the destiny
of the Cause; attacks on the sacred
Cause by people of all nations and
faiths which must inevitably come in
future; the essential difference between
Bahá’í institutions and current
orders of the Christians and Moslems
which suggest similarities; the striking
contrast between institutions erected
by men and those created by the
sovereignty of God; the building of
a structure as firm as adamant in its
durability yet as fluid as limpid water
in its adaptability to the growing and
changing needs of humanity; the simplicity,
yet profundity and measureless
bounties of the Cause and its destined
victory through the hosts of the
unseen over all the fleeting powers of
earth. This great letter must dispel
all doubts and apprehensions with the
light of complete assurance.
The convention was organized with Allan B. McDaniel as chairman and Horace Holley as secretary. These servants of the divine Cause are so ideally fitted for their tasks that comment is unnecessary. The body of the Cause in America was also ably represented by those chosen as delegates.
The opening session contained references to the sunshine which expressed the happiness of the friends, the love of the Master for music, the appropriateness of such a gathering being held in the Temple. The chairman also expressed the conviction that construction and consultation will bring a new era of power among the friends in the western world. Hearts must increasingly feel the love of God and minds be more attuned to the spirit of the new age. High aims must be combined with sound methods.
A cablegram from the Guardian as read follows:
“Convey assembled delegates expression profound gratitude, heartfelt congratulations their heroic achievement. May speedy construction entire edifice usher in era unprecedented triumphs beloved Faith as promised by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.
“America’s sustained, glorious sacrifice will assuredly endow rising edifice with such spiritual potencies as shall excite wonder, admiration all peoples. Befittingly inaugurate resumption Temple construction. Consecrated carpet need neither be sold, nor returned. Dedicated as permanent ornament first Mashriqu'il-Adhkár of the West. Advise Convention cable National Assemblies news this historic ceremony.
“Martha’s triumphal, unhindered progress through Persia has paved way for delegation representing western Bahá’í’s visit to advance the interests of Faith in Bahá’u’lláh’s native land. Deepest love.” (Signed) Shoghi.
The convention replied in the following cablegram to the Guardian:
“Assembled delegates greet beloved Guardian with heartfelt love and devotion. Deep gratitude for matchless gift of precious rugs to Mashriqu’l-Adhkár. Seek confirmation from Realm of Reality that we may consciously realize in and for each other and within ourselves the love of the Holy Spirit to solve every problem with this divine Elixir; that the new year will mark the entrance into the Cause the troops foretold by the Master; that beginning now the Temple may arise both inwardly and outwardly and that radiant amity encircle every soul.
“Impressive resumption ceremony held Sunday evening at Foundation Hall.” (Signed) Bahá’í Convention.
During the convention other messages of greeting came from the friends in London; Pretoria, South Africa; Philadelphia; Geneva, Switzerland; and Iskahad, Russia.
Publicity
A powerful plea was made to the convention during its consultation about publicity that a vigorous campaign of teaching be launched lest the liberal principles of the Bahá’í Cause be taken over by outside liberal organizations. The opinion was voiced that the activity of the Temple should not be allowed to jeopardize other activities of the Cause. Now that the Temple construction is about to be resumed, a thousand questions will be asked about it. Definite instruction as a result of serious consideration and definite study should always be available. Publicity that is accurate and efficient should be pressed to the fore. It should have in view not only local and national, but also world conditions. It should imply cooperation between national and local bodies and lend itself to the needs of an age which is both scientific and constructive.
Suggested by the wishes of the Guardian for American friends to visit Persia for teaching, a friend recalled what ’Abdu’l-Bahá mentioned years ago about such a journey. It was that a group of from eight to eighteen, or even larger should go. It should include people of experience and those who can address audiences. The great war shut off this means of service as conceived by the Master; but now the door is being opened by Shoghi Effendi.
Bahá’í Magazine
The spokesman for this magazine, Mrs. Haney, reported a plan to add to its staff contributing editors from various countries, such as England, Egypt, Persia, etc. The convention expressed high appreciation for the editors and attached especial value to the last number with its fine presentation of the Temple. The bound volumes were declared mines of information, comprised a valuable library, the sales of which ought to augment the revenues.
Indexing and Editing Tablets
Mrs. Corinne True reported the progress of this work and how the presence of the Master was sometimes felt in the handling of His Tablets. It was suggested that all who possess Tablets should send the originals with their translations to the archives, retaining photostatic copies so that priceless treasures may not he lost.
Treasurer’s Report
In connection with Mr. Scheffler’s presentation of this document which was printed and circulated among the delegates, he expressed the Guardian’s wish for business efficiency. The complicated affairs of the Cause should be administered with complete accuracy. A definite system of accounting should be installed by local Assemblies. All should know where the money goes. The more businesslike we are, the more in accord with the spirit of the Cause. The system will stimulate giving in a regular way. This works well in the business of the N. S. A. A and clear and simple system is used and this should be adopted by all the centers.
A friend from Montreal who has
made great gifts declared, We have
not finished. We have both started.
The Temple must be built in record
time. Let us continue to sacrifice for
Bahá’u’lláh, ’Abdu’l-Bahá and Shoghi
Effendi. We must do even better in
future, although we have done well.
The purpose of the Cause is unity. If
we talk sacrifice we must prove it.
Keep up the plan of unified action.[Page 3]
If we do so during the next three or
five years the Temple will be built. We
must keep at it in order to fulfill the
beautiful words of the Master. The
assurance on the part of the friends of
further support has greatly relieved
Shoghi Effendi of his burdens. In
these hard times we may well lay the
foundation of future prosperity by
keeping a promise that will be a shining
example to the world. Tell the
friends, says Shoghi Effendi, that the
work is not finished. It is just started.
It is not only our duty, but our privilege
to fulfill our promise and complete
this building in record time.
Public Teaching Meeting
Friday evening of the convention was devoted to the teaching of the general public. Spiritual fragrance was diffused through the reading of the Creative Words. There was also a very attractive musical program in which various races found expression. The chairman, Mrs. Ella G. Cooper, of San Francisco, in her radiant manner told of the psychology of the new age and of the great Light now reflected in every domain of human activity. While the appearance of every prophet of the past bestowed new spiritual life and joys upon mankind, yet now this glorious new springtime of God has brought us ceaseless joy in the universal Manifestation, Bahá’u’lláh. The nations of men through material advancement are now closely associated together. But there must be the spiritual bond to enable them to work harmoniously. The great principles of Bahá’u’lláh unfold a world program of unity, cooperation and love, while the penetration of His mighty Spirit brings healing to a distracted world.
Another theme was “The Reality of Humanity”, one which the speaker felt had been given him by the Master. He gave this universal reality a local application by showing how it might bring harmonious contacts between the three racial stocks in America, to wit, the red man, the white man and the black man. By discovering the common origin and destiny of mankind, they might cooperate more closely, discern the mystery of being and attain nearness to God the ideal King through service to the realm of man. He praised the noble qualities found in each race and showed how each could attain a bright destiny through the supreme Guidance of Bahá’u’lláh. For a member of one race to praise another is ever a means of increasing sympathy and understanding. Appreciation therefore, and not dispraise, is the ensign of the illuminati. It is an attribute of the Divine upon which increasingly rests the security of the world. Harold Johnson’s beautiful poem on the unity of east and west in which he refers to the one
- “Who of late by the foot of
- Carmel trod
- Persia’s holiest son who shone
- forth with the Splendor of
- God”
- forth with the Splendor of
- “Who of late by the foot of
was read as a fitting climax to this address.
The third address, “What is new in the Bahá’í Teachings?” was given by Mr. Albert Vail. Strikingly beautiful quotations from Words of Bahá’u’lláh by Prof. Browne, from the Hidden Words and the first western address of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá were read at the beginning. The Bahá’í teachings restate in a new way what is true in religion. The actual is accentuated in these teachings. A definition which ‘Abdu’l-Bahá once gave of a Bahá’í is “a Christian who puts his teachings into practice.” An open mind is the rarest of gifts. Children are original and free from prejudices until they reach the age of ten. Research and just evaluation bring life. Imitation and adherence to tradition bring death. Bahá’u’lláh is the first to teach the independent attitude toward truth. Investigate with a pure and loving heart. This brings us nearer to God.
Another new thought is that of the same reality in all religions. The mirror of God are the Prophets whose light they reflect. They reveal the splendor of the Invisible. God sends His Messengers in succession. He is not exhausted in His bounties by what has gone before. Today he will restores in its purity and perfection the truth of old, but also revels in newness and abundance all that is needed in this wondrous age. Each creative day discovers God all over again. A new power comes with such discovery. Now is seen a wonderful synthesis of science and religion. It glows in our hearts and shines in our minds. “Praise be to Thee, O Desire of the hearts of the yearning!”
Second Day
Following the opening with music and prayer and reading from the epistles of Shoghi Effendi, a delegate moved that the incoming National Spiritual Assembly be asked as soon as possible to prepare a budget and new schedule with such added instructions as may be secured from the Guardian.
Interracial Amity
The report of the Amity Committee brought many happy responses. These included references to the activities in Chicago and its environs, told by Mrs. Parker, a member of both the local and national committees; of the guidance of an aged and influential Moslem in New York; of the varied and picturesque activities among the youth of that great assembly; of the activities on the Pacific coast among Negroes, Chinese, Japanese and other Orientals; of the cosmopolitan clubs among groups in Southern California, where fifteen races were represented; of the fine services rendered by the Geneva, New York, friends, both in their own city and the adjoining city of Rochester; of the interracial discussion group conducted by the Bahá’ís in Washington, D. C.; of the valued work of the San Francisco and Bay City friends; of the wonderful confirmations showered upon the recent amity conferences held in Montreal; of the brilliant success of the recent conferences held in Columbus, Ohio, which demonstrated the universal principles of the Cause; of the fraternity work among the youth of Montreal with an utter loss of racial consciousness. These very interesting and varied reports were received with much appreciation.
Geyserville Summer School
Representatives of the western Green Acre, the summer school at Geyserville, Calif., gave a naive and beautiful description of this teaching activity. It is designed to promote the advancement of science and also to disseminate
|
Address for Correspondence News Editor Office of the Secretariat Evergreen Cabin West Englewood, New Jersey BAHÁ’I NEWS is the official organ of the American National Spiritual Assembly. Its cost is defrayed from the National Bahá’í Fund and copies are distributed free of charge to recognized believers throughout the United States and Canada, and to National and Local Spiritual Assemblies in other lands. News articles and reports of general Bahá’í interest and value are requested from Assemblies, National Committees and other representatives of the Cause. The Guardian’s statement concerning the purpose and scope of this publication can be found in the volume entitled “Bahá’í Administration.” |
the ideals of the Kingdom. Well qualified Bahá’í teachers to attend and some eminent scientists are so enamored of the place and its spirit of service that they defray their own expenses from a distance in order to share the joys and glories of service. Among the subjects of the coming season are “The Science of Social Conduct”, “Interracial Problems and Their Solution”, “Political and Spiritual Forces of the World” and “Peace”.
Bahá’í World
The matter of the new edition of the Bahá’í World is now in the hands of the Guardian. Mr. Windust paid a feeling tribute to those who have sent photographs, the most interesting of which came from Persia. This beautiful volume makes a special appeal to the refined and educated classes. In the universities, professors of religion, psychology and sociology have found it most useful.
National Teaching Committee
One of the most enlivening reports was that of the National Teaching Committee, presented by Mrs. May Maxwell. She stated that one of the most inspiring works imaginable was to receive the reports from various centers and to view the evolution of various methods and phases of activity. One of these relates to activities initiated by this committee and another to spontaneous efforts among the friends in the centers. Need for more funds is voiced by many and has a real basis. Sacrifices for the Temple have made this necessary. There has been the greatest amount of work with the smallest expenditure of means. Also, the scarcity of teachers presents a vital need. Teachers should attract not only ardent admirers, but ardent supporters of the faith. The latter is difficult. The seed sown must be pure. The fires of Bahá’u’lláh will set ablaze forests of hearts when conditions are favorable. Mrs. Keith Ransom-Kehler sacrificed visits to nineteen centers in order to do the follow-up work of Miss Orcella Rexford in New York. How scarce are souls with the capacity to teach! News like the wind should fly from place to place. Meetings should be a perfect flame of beauty and enthusiasm. Two secretaries are now needed, one to correspond and the other to plan activities. Efficiency and penetration are attained in the Cause when local and national workers cooperate.
Reception of the Rug
A ceremony of the utmost simplicity and dignity expressed the gratitude welling in the hearts of the friends for the wondrous gift of Shoghi Effendi, the beautiful rug sent from the sacred shrine now to be an adornment of the first western Temple. All nations and races stood around the rug and the occasion had an Oriental setting in being conducted by Dr. Zia M. Baghdadi, who is so well trained in the customs of both east and west.
Ridván Feast
The Feast of El-Ridván, commemoration of the Declaration of Bahá’u’lláh, was observed both outwardly and inwardly. Outwardly it was the entertainment of three hundred persons with the delicious Persian pilau. On the inner spiritual plane, it was “the glad tidings of the mom of guidance.”
George O. Latimer of Portland, Oregon, presided, showing forth great joy and lending himself in an ideal way to the conduct of a long and varied program. Dr. Bagdadi gave a graphic portrayal of the original scene, with the sadness of the friends who surrounded Bahá’u’lláh on the morning of that day when he was summoned from Baghdad to Constantinople, this to be followed with the supreme joy of the hearts when that evening he made His great declaration. Then the breezes of knowledge, science and true civilization began to penetrate the whole world. The chairman kept the spirits in a genial flow. Mother Beecher, although personally absent, was heard to deliver one of her famous exhortations. It came through her granddaughter, Dorothy Baker, who with deep fervor exhorted all to love mankind for the sake of God. One friend told the glorious news of the new community in Phoenix, Ariz., and how full of the divine fire they are.
Another, a new believer, paid eloquent tribute to the marvelous spirit which pervades these gatherings. Still another told by the customs of the American Indians and her hopes for their future guidance. Our Persian brother, Foad Ashraf, told of the striking similitude of this Ridván Feast and its scenes of love to the beautiful gardens of Persia, “land of the nightingale and the rose.” Mrs. Grace Ober, who spent so much time with the Master, recalled His exhortation to make oneself a hollow tube through which the voice of God might speak.
Third Day
The Outline Bureau gave evidence of its activities through a report made by Mrs. Doris McKay of Geneva, one of the most active and resourceful workers in this arm of the teaching work. She appealed for warmth, light and beauty, both outward and inward grace. Appreciation was shown for this glorious work which has moved so many centers to go more deeply into the treasures unfolded by the teachings.
Election
The usual prayers for guidance preceded the balloting and the returns as reported by the tellers showed the reelection of the entire personnel of the National Spiritual Assembly of last year. The members thus elected, in view of their largely increasing responsibilities, felt the need of fervent prayer and one of the friends, Mrs. Haney, read the words of the Guardian asking on the part of all, loyal support to those thus honored and weighted.
Mashriqu’l-Adhkár
The purpose of the organization of the first convention, twenty-two years ago, was the erection of the noble structure of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár. During all the years the friends who have labored, sacrificed and prayed have looked forward longingly to the time when their fondest hopes would be realized. The resumption of building operations after the years now marks what indeed seems a new epoch in the Cause. The presence of Mr. Louis Bourgeois and the actual or constructive presence of a number of others who will aid him in the architectural and engineering phases of the building of the Temple of God was a happy augury of the not distant future when this glorious structure will find completion. We close our brief and all too inadequate reports by quoting the address of Dr. F. H. Newell, of the Research Service, which will have direction of the engineering, this to be followed in turn by the poetic letter of Mr. H. Van Buren Magonigle, chairman of the Advisory Committee of distinguished architects for the Temple. The association of great architects and engineers in this Temple construction fulfills the prophecy that this great edifice would be the result of the combined efforts of a number of architects.
Dr. Newell’s Address
“To gain a mental picture of the Temple, imagine a lofty cylindrical room topped with a hemispherical dome of 45 ft. radius. In short, a circular room 75 ft. across and 135 ft. high in the center formed of glass held by steel frames. This glass roof and sides keep out the wind and protect the interior of the structure from the weather. When the Temple is completed, with all of its ornamentations, the glass will be almost unseen, it is concealed both on the outside and inside by highly ornamented perforated screens of stone, concrete or metal, through which the light can pass.
“The weight of the structure and its dome is carried largely at nine points equally distant from the center. There thus results not a circular building with outer walls following the uniformly curved glass sides, but a nine-sided structure with each of the nine sectors similar to the other and with nine projecting corners or buttresses each marked with a minaret or tower 45 ft. high.
“The platform from which these nine towers rise is circular, 202 ft. in diameter at the ground surface and rising by 19 concentric steps to the main floor of the Temple, where it is 152 ft. across. There is a door midway between each two towers; this opens from a broad, platform—the far side of which curves backward, that is in the reverse direction from the curve of the outer edge of the platform. On each side of the doorway are two windows highly ornamented. The door and flanking windows are repeated in each of the nine sectors all identical in appearance.
“Entering, the building is essentially a large circular hall or auditorium with nine relatively small rooms opening out radially. Looking up it is seen that the walls of this large central hall carry a gallery 36 ft. from the floor and above this a second gallery 45 ft. higher, or 81 ft. from the floor. Above this is a 19 ft. story and then the curve or spring of the dome. These galleries project 10 ft. into the central hall or narrow it to 75 ft. in diameter. The pillars which support the galleries are continued up to carry a dome inside the glass weather-proof dome and slightly lower down, by about 12 ft. in the center. There are in effect three domes; the outer to consist of perforated stone or concrete, inside this the concealed wire glass or weather-proof dome and then a third or false dome which is seen from below. The galleries and the inside dome are a mass of ornamentation completely concealing the main structure.
“Above the first story the outer portion of the building steps back. There are again nine segments with nine projecting angles marked by towers or minarets, but these are midway between the lower outer towers. These upper minarets nine in number, are over 50 ft. high, each is crowned by a glass illuminated sphere. The side walls between these minarets are not straight but are concavely curved in plan similar to those below.
“The nine rooms opening out from the central hall are about 20 ft. wide by 24 ft. deep with ceilings 33 ft. high. The arched openings from the central hall into these rooms are 16 ft. wide and 29 ft. high and are not provided with doors. The side walls of the rooms are flat; each pierced by two double doors 8 ft. high. The far end of each room that is formed by the outside wall, is curved or bowed outward toward the tower, which forms a part of this outer wall of each of the nine rooms. One of these rooms will be used in part of a stairway leading to the gallery.
“The lower gallery is 36 ft. above the main floor and is reached by 60 steps; it is 8 ft. wide and extends entirely around the building and affords a view of the interior. Doors open out from the gallery into the flat roof of the nine rooms just described. Above these doors are window openings 30 ft. high.
“From this first gallery a winding staircase of 70 steps leads to the second or singer’s gallery at the base of the dome. This is 45 ft. above the first gallery; it is 5½ ft. wide, opens to the central hall by high narrow arches and outwardly by windows and doors leading to a narrow outside platform.
“The floor area of the central hall is about 70 ft. in diameter and contains a little less than 4000 square feet; assuming that 6 square feet will be needed for a person the auditorium will hold between six and seven hundred people. The rooms will hold about 100 people each.”
Mr. Magonigle’s Letter
The following is an extract from the letter of Mr. Magonigle to Mr. Newell as quoted by the latter in his address to the convention:
“As I said to you, it has been necessary for me as architectural member of the Advisory Board, to adjust myself to an unusual point of view. Mr. Bourgeois have conceived a Temple of light, to which structure as usually understood is to be conceded visible support eliminated so far as possible and the whole fabric to take on the airy structure of a dream. It is a large envelope enshrining an idea, the idea of light; a shelter of cobweb interposed between earth and sky, struck through and through with light, light which will partly consume the forms and make of it a thing of faery. It is necessary then for your Advisory Board to place themselves at once in an attitude of respect for this beautiful idea and applying the fruits of experience, bend the practical to the aesthetic with sympathetic understanding in the endeavor to ascend to the ethereal realization of the creator’s dream.”
Only an edifice that in its mysticism connects earth with heaven, that is created by the divine Logos, that incarnates sacrifice, that typifies the power of unity, responds to Guidance, is under infinite protection and that represents in its radiant form the Manifestation of God, Bahá’u’lláh, can fulfill so sublime an ideal. The worlds of religion, art, science, invention and industry lay their treasures at His feet. “Him do the powers obey.”
BAHA’I ALBUM[edit]
Miss Mary L. Fenn, 864 Prospect Ave., La Jolla, Calif., started about a year ago to make up for the archives a collection of photographs of the early believers. She will be pleased if those who are interested in such a collection will aid her by mailing to her at the address given above, the photographs of living or deceased believers representative of the history of the Cause in America.
THE GREEN ACRE SEASON[edit]
The Green Acre Committee under the jurisdiction of the National Spiritual Assembly, is making preparations for the carrying on of an intensive study and training course for teachers at Green Acre during July and August, 1930.
The physical plant of Green Acre will be utilized to the fullest practicable extent to provide for rooms and meals at cost for friends who may find it possible to spend from a few days to the entire season there.
The program for the season will include daily teaching and training classes in the morning except Saturday and Sunday, and supplementary lectures on three afternoons or evenings each week. General community gatherings and entertainments will be held on Sunday evenings, special classes will be held for the children, and activities for the young people will include services about the properties, classes and recreation. A racial amity conference will take place in August. A detailed program will be issued later. It is hoped that the friends will make a special effort this Summer to spend their vacations at Green Acre; profit from the refreshing climate of this lovely, consecrated spot, and receive the spiritual benefit and training of the classes and lectures.
Inquiries should be addressed to— Prof. G. A. Shook, Wheaton College, Norton, Mass; or Mrs. A. B. McDaniel, 7 Grafton Street, Chevy Chase, Md.
PROGRAM BAHA’I SUMMER SCHOOL GEYSERVILLE, CAL.[edit]
1930
July 13th to 27th, Inclusive
COURSES:
1. Comparative Religion
- a. The Living Religions
- Their Basic Teachings.
- b. The Truths Underlying Their
- Symbolisms.
- c. Continuity of Religion.
- d. The Spiritual Influence in
- World Civilizations.
- Bahá’í Teachers.
- World Civilizations.
2. The Science of Religion
- a. Evolution.
- b. Heredity and Environment.
- c. Man in this Universe.
- d. Immortality.
- Bahá’í Teachers.
3. The Science of the New Education
- a. The Material Factors, Prof.
- E. A. Rogers.
- b. Spiritual Factors, Prof.
- Meredith of Montezuma
- School.
- d. Spiritual Aspect of Psychology.
- Mrs. C. M. Cooper.
4. The Science of Social Conduct
- a. Economics of Agriculture.
- Prof. H. E. Kern of The University
- of Berlin.
- b. Inter-racial Problems and
- Their Solution. Prof. Forsyeth
- Ward, of University of
- California.
- c. Sociology in a New Light,
- Prof. Phillips, of Fresno State
- College.
- d. Political and Spiritual Forces
- Working for World Peace,
- Tully C. Knowles, President,
- College of Pacific.
Esperanto Class. Teaching Conference, July 20th.
Children’s Class. Public Meetings in Santa Rosa and Geyserville.
THE BAHA’I MAGAZINE[edit]
Many interesting articles are in store for the readers of the Star of the West. Martha Root continues her travels, and promises to send us a series of articles covering her marvelous experiences in the countries she visits. We are also promised by her the translation of an article on the Cause which appeared in an Arabic paper. Martha Root has been called a “spiritual genius,” and the title is deserved for only a spiritual genius who wins the confirmations of God could have to her credit such outstanding achievements in the path of service.
The new series on “Travels in the Holy Land,” by Dr. Walter B. Guy will continue to appear from month to month. He is giving us some exquisite sketches.
We are always happy to have new contributors to the pages of the Star, and the March number brings out an article by Leslie R. Hawthorn on “The Great Change.” Other articles from this young and enthusiastic Bahá’í will appear from time to time, and will demonstrate that he is not only a gifted writer but a thinker.
The April Star will be a special Temple number. A most important article will appear in this number by Mrs. Shahnaz Waite, who presents the plan of the Temple in a novel way. It is one of the finest articles on the subject ever published and is well worth the reading of the Bahá’ís and for all those interested in the Cause.
In Japan Agnes Alexander continues her good work of bringing the Bahá’í Teachings to the attention of worth while people personally; also there appears in the Japanese Press sometimes a reprint of articles in the Star. Recently Miss Alexander’s “Mount Fuji” article was taken from THE BAHÁ’I MAGAZINE, copied in one of the large Japanese papers and credit given to our magazine.
We feel greatly encouraged with the progress in every direction, and it is our hope for the Star that it may continue to be the means of bringing interested people into the Cause.
- STANWOOD COBB,
- MARIAM HANEY,
- MARGARET B. McDANIEL.
CORRESPONDENCE COURSE[edit]
The Bahái Correspondence Course is meeting with an encouraging response from all parts of the country. Over one hundred have now registered, of which exactly half is from the Pacific coast states. Their keener interest is probably due to a letter from Shoghi Effendi to a Los Angeles believer in which he said, “To deepen in the Cause means to read the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh and the Master so thoroughly as to be able to give it to others in its pure form. There are many who have some superficial idea of what the Cause stands for. They therefore present it together with all sorts of ideas that are their own. As the Cause is still in its early days we must be most careful lest we fall under this error and injure the Movement we so much adore. There is no limit to the study of the Cause. The more we read the Writings the more Truths we find in them and the more we will see that our previous notions were erroneous.”
Various uses of these lessons are being made aside from individual study. Some report that the lessons furnish splendid material for most interesting general meetings. One enthusiast, writes, “I cannot say enough in praise of your wonderful lessons. They seem to be the best yet in promoting study as well as teaching the Word of God in this Day. As librarian, I have been trying hard to bring about the study of the Word, but have gained little headway until we received these lessons which with the required class-work, reports and examinations, were an incentive to study for ourselves what we have always expected our speakers to do for us—a good case of mental laziness. The Word of God has such power! The two hour study class seems so short. No one wants to go home. Am trying to encourage more classes to form in homes, even if only two or three can get together.”
Anyone interested in this Course for personal or Assembly use should write to R. C. Collison, 681 Castle Street, Geneva, N. Y.
THE HOUSES OF BAHA’U’LLAH[edit]
The spiritual tension produced throughout the Bahá’i world by the seizure of the Houses of Bahá’u’lláh at Bagdad, still continues to exist. Although the Petition submitted to the Permanent Mandates Commission of the League of Nations by the Bagdad Spiritual Assembly was favorably acted upon, and the recommendation of the Commission approved by the Council of the League, the Government of Iraq has not yet compelled the Shiahs to restore these Shrines to their rightful Bahá’i ownership. With the Guardian’s approval, extracts from the Minutes of the Fourteenth Session of the Permanent Mandates Commission held at Geneva, Switzerland, from October 26 to November 13, 1928, are published for the information of believers. The following passages are from pages 262 and 276 of the printed volumes of Minutes.— Editor.
Report of the Commission to the Council
The petitioners state at great length the facts which have led them to appeal to the League of Nations. These facts can be summarized as follows:
The founder of the sect, Bahá’u’lláh
in whom the Bahá’is recognize
the inspired messenger of God, settled
at Bagdad in 1852 after being exiled
from Persia. He established himself
and his family in certain dwelling-houses
belonging to one of his disciples.
This property—which is the
[Page 7]
subject of the present litigation—was
subsequently acquired by Bahá’u’lláh
and on his death passed into the possession
of his son ’Abdu’l-Bahá.
Bahá’u’lláh resided eleven years in
these houses, upon which his long residence
conferred in the eyes of his disciples
a sacred character.
In view of the lack of security which prevailed under the former system of government and the constant hostility of the Shiahs, Bahá’u’lláh decided never to reveal his ownership of the dwelling-houses in question, which to all appearance remained the property of one of his disciples, and for the same reasons the sect abstained from using these dwellings for the exercise of their religion, thus refraining from drawing attention to the sacred character which they attached to this property.
Matters remained in this condition until, with the establishment of the British mandate, the liberty of conscience and religion proclaimed in the Covenant of the League of Nations was confirmed in Iraq by the Treaty of 1922 with Great Britain and later by the Organic Law of Iraq. Taking advantage of a security they had never known before, the Bahá’is, under the direction of ’Abdu’l-Bahá,* henceforth the leader of their movement, set about putting into repair the dwellings sanctified by the residence of Bahá’u’lláh with a view to the open exercise of their religion.
Then began the tribulations which they ascribe to the fanaticism of the Shiahs. The era of persecution and violence had passed, but the Shiahs resorted to intrigue in order to relegate into the background a sect whose development they feared.
A first attempt on the part of the Qadhi of the Shiah Courts at Bagdad to obtain possession of the property in question was frustrated by the intervention of the Iraq authorities. A fresh application was subsequently made by the same Qadhi to the Peace Court at Bagdad for the eviction of the occupants.
The decision of the Court was still pending when the Government intervened afresh, moved by the slate of public opinion caused by the Shiahs: the Government ordered the Bahá’is to be evicted and the keys of the houses in dispute to be given into the custody of the Governor of Bagdad. After a judgment dismissing the application, the Peace Court made fruitless efforts to reinstate the defendants in possession of the property. Its decision
______
- In 1922 our leader or the Bahá’i movement was
Shoghi Effendi—Editor.
remained a dead-letter, as the Government maintained its refusal.
The case passed from Court to Court and was finally brought before the Court of Appeal at Bagdad, which, by a majority of four (the native members) to one (the British Presiding Justice), decided in favor of the plaintiffs (the Shiahs).
According to the petitioners, the property which was the subject of litigation was at once converted into Waqf property, the effect of which was to render redress from the injustice of which they complain even more difficult. The accuracy of this fact was disputed by the accredited representative of the mandatory Power during his last hearing before the Commission.
Finally, the petition contains extracts from correspondence exchanged between the British Secretary of State and the representative of the petitioners, from which it will be gathered that the mandatory Government has taken active steps through its High Commissioner in Iraq with a view to inducing the Government of Iraq to adopt a compromise which would give satisfaction to the complainants. This intervention remained without success.
The Bahá’i community maintains that, on account of a series of intrigues inspired by religious fanaticism in which the administrative authorities and finally also the judicial authorities of Iraq were associated, it has been seriously disturbed in the exercise of its religion and deprived of property belonging to its religious head, to which the community attaches a sacred character, to the advantage of a rival sect.
In support of its claims, this community appeals to the principle of the liberty of conscience and religion contained in the Treaty of 1922 between Iraq and Great Britain (Article III) and in the Organic Law of Iraq (Article XIII), as also to Article 22 (1) of the League Covenant, which states that the well-being and development of the peoples (of the mandated territories) formed a sacred trust, of civilization.
Conclusions
The Commission draws the Council’s attention to the considerations and conclusion suggested to it by an examination of the petition of the Bahá’i Spiritual Assembly of Bagdad and of the documents accompanying it.
It recommends that the Council should ask the British Government to make representations to the Iraq Government with a view to the immediate redress of the denial of justice from which the petitioners have suffered.
Moreover, the Commission proposes to the Council that the petitioners be answered in the following terms:
“The Permanent Mandates Commission, recognizing the justice of the complaint made by the Bahá’i Spiritual Assembly of Bagdad, has recommended to the Council of the League such action as it thinks proper to redress the wrong suffered by the petitioners.”
REPORT OF THE TREASURER*[edit]
The year beginning April 1, 1929, and ending March 31, 1930, has become a most important period in the short history of the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh in America. It brought to a successful conclusion the long sustained effort made by the handful of believers in America to accumulate the building fund of $400,000 that would enable us to resume the construction of Mashriqu’l-Adhkár. In every part of the world the Bahá’is have been anxiously awaiting this moment. They have been praying for our success and have also contributed generously to the funds, so that when this edifice is erected it can be said without fear of contradiction that the people of every part of the world and from every religious origin have united to build this Temple to the glory of God and for the service of mankind.
During this year the treasurer of the National Spiritual Assembly received a total of $230,035.16, and he has expended a total of $37,530.55, of which $11,023.50 was for capital expenditures.
The cash on hand at the close of the last fiscal year was $211,928.06. The Convention last year raised that amount almost to the $350,000 mark, but the believers had then made a supreme effort and it was not possible actually to complete the fund for the building until the end of this year.
Trustees Under the Temple Indenture
Since the establishment of the trusteeship for the Temple and also for Green Acre, it has been necessary for the treasurer to open separate books of account for each one of these activities.
Four hundred thousand dollars shown in the Temple Fund is the amount that was voted to the trustees
______
- This report could not be included among the
annual reports published in the BAHÁ’I NEWS for April but was distributed to delegates at the Convention in pamphlet form. The following financial statement is only a summary of the fully itemized Treasurer’s Report—Editor.
for the construction of the Temple. In addition to this amount $3,798.79 was expended on the Temple by the Temple trustees, said amount having previously been placed at their disposal by the National Spiritual Assembly. The capital expenditures on the Temple this year amounted to $9,335.51. All the lands of the Temple with the structures thereon, excepting, of course, the Bourgeois studio building, have also been turned over to the trustees for the Temple, also vacant properties at Lansing, Illinois and Muskegon, Michigan, the total value of all of which amounts to $750,502.52. This figure, however, represents only a part of the actual value as the figures shown in Exhibit “I” give us the actual cost of the Temple property and do not take into account the tremendous increase in the value of this land since it was purchased.
Trustees Under the Green Acre Indenture
The total value of the Green Acre properties as shown on the books of the Green Acre Trustees represents only the actual cost of the property to the Cause. In view of the necessity for conservation of the funds, the treasurer has not argued that the Green Acre properties be appraised this last year, but before any program for the development of Green Acre is undertaken by the believers, an appraisal should be made so that the trustees may have definite information to guide them. In the case of the Temple properties this is not so important, inasmuch as the use of the property is definitely established and the financial policy regarding our building operations is fixed by the Guardian. The instructions as we now understand them preclude any possibility of these lands being mortgaged or sold.
Only sufficient money to meet the running expenses of the Green Acre property and to retire several bonds held by believers who were in need of the funds was voted to the Green Acre trustees, so that the total amount of cash in their possession at the close of the fiscal year was only $29.94. This amount is on deposit in the National Mechanics and Traders Bank of Portsmouth.
National Spiritual Assembly Operating Expenses
The total amount expended by the National Spiritual Assembly in maintaining the activities of the Cause this year was $26,507.05. This is $1,004.60 less than was expended last year. It is the opinion of the treasurer’s office,
STATEMENT OF CASH RECEIPTS AND DISBURSEMENTS
For Period April 1, 1929 to March 31, 1930
| CASH AND | ||||
| SECURITIES | General | Geenacre | Temple | |
| On Hand April 1, 1929 | Fund | Fund | Fund | Total |
| Northern Trust Co. | $512.06 (Red) | (Red) | $512.06 | |
| Northern Trust Co. | $809.88 | 809.88 | ||
| Northern Trust Co. | 400.00 | 400.00 | ||
| State Bank & Trust Co. | 18,694.59 | 18,694.59 | ||
| U. S. Treasury Cert. | 189,5905.63 | 189,590.63 | ||
| Liberty Bonds | 150.00 | 150.00 | ||
| Other Stocks and Bonds | 2,150.00 | 2,150.00 | ||
| Accrued Interest | 645.02 | 645.02 | ||
| $18,182.53 | 193,745.53 | 211,928.06 | ||
| CASH RECEIPTS | ||||
| $73,564.48 | $90.00 | $156,380.68 | $230,035.16 | |
| $91,747.01 | $90.00 | $350,126.21 | $441,963.22 | |
| DISBURSEMENTS | ||||
| Temple | $3,798.79 | $3,798.79 | ||
| Teaching | $6,345.00 | $6,345.00 | ||
| Green Acre | 3,886.98 | 3,886.98 | ||
| News Letter | 917.33 | 917.33 | ||
| Bahai Magazine | 3,358.50 | 3,358.50 | ||
| International | 2,465.00 | 2,465.00 | ||
| Publicity | 45.00 | 45.00 | ||
| Administration | 5,525.52 | 5,525.52 | ||
| Archives | 104.93 | 104.93 | ||
| Amity | 60.00 | 60.00 | ||
| $18,321.28 | $3,886.98 | $3,798.79 | $26,507.05 | |
| $72,925.73 | $3,796.98 | $346,327.42 | $415,456.17 | |
| (Red) | ||||
| CAPITAL | ||||
| EXPENDITURES | $715.24 | $972.75 | $9,335.51 | $11,023.50 |
| $72,210.49 | $4,769.73 | $336,991.91 | $404,432.67 | |
| (Red) | ||||
| Funds transferred from General Fund to Temple and Green Acre Funds | $67,777.82 | $4,769.73 | $63,008.09 | |
| CASH AND SECURITIES On Hand March 31, 1930 | $4,432.67 | NONE | $400,000.00 | $404,432.67 |
Note—Analysis of Disbursements are given in Exhibit “D”
however, that the resumption of activity on the Temple property will call for a greater expenditure in the future. The teaching work will have to be stimulated. Publicity will have to be properly handled by the National Spiritual Assembly, so that the awakened interest of the American public will be met by a well organized and efficient body who are thoroughly equipped to supply reliable information that will do justice to the Cause.
Without doubt the local assemblies and groups, as well as the committees handling the funds, should all use a uniform system of accounting. Exact methods will stimulate the work and once installed and understood they will definitely help those who are doing the work of the Cause. Local treasurers should use a uniform receipt and all accounts should be kept in a uniform manner so that eventually the National treasurers’ records may reflect the financial activity of the entire Cause in America and Canada. Mr. A. F. Matthisen, who has been doing the accounting work of the National Spiritual Assembly, has prepared such a system for presentation to the believers.
- Respectfully submitted,
- CARL SCHEFFLER,
- Respectfully submitted,
