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| No. 419 | BAHA’I YEAR 122 | FEBRUARY, 1966 |
Universal House of Justice Calls for 200 Additional Pioneers to Ensure Victory[edit]
Announce all believers rejoice response Bahá’í world pioneer call raised Ridván. message requiring 460 pioneers course current year. Thus far 93 settled posts including 15 virgin territories: St. Andres Island, Providencia Island, Marmara Island, Chad, Niger, Cayman Islands, Turks and Caicos, Ischia, Gotland, Alaska Peninsula, Barbuda, St. Kitts-Nevis, Inner Hebrides, Bornholm, Capri. 35 additional settled same goals. 167 more arisen and in process settling. Total 295 souls responded call. Further 200 believers needed next four swiftly passing months fill remaining goals. Fate Pioneer Plan hanging balance, praying fervently Holy Shrines required number heroic souls arise meet challenge critical hour. Urge promptly assemblies needing funds execute assignments apply immediately International Deputization Fund. Imperative settle all territories announced Ridván except those dependent favorable circumstances. Virgin and resettlement territories priority. Confident spirit devotion friends glorious faith ensure brilliant victory this primary objective so-vital Nine Year Plan.
| Haifa, Israel | —UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE |
| December 11, 1965 |
Following dispatch of the foregoing cablegram to the Bahá’í World Community, the Universal House of Justice sent to all National Spiritual Assemblies a detailed list of current needs together with a report of the progress made on all goals of the Pioneer Plan initiated at Riḍván 1965. As announced in the cabled message, ninety-three of the 204 posts had been settled, including fifteen virgin goals. A later letter reports that the number of goals settled had been increased to 107, leaving ninety-seven still to be filled. To open the remaining forty-two virgin goals and to re-settle vacated posts two hundred pioneers, in addition to those already in process of settling, are needed before Riḍván 1966.
Of the ninety-seven posts still to be settled the Universal House of Justice has listed thirty-nine that are to be given top priority. These call for a minimum of forty-two believers. By continents these priority goals are distributed as follows:
| Africa — | 6 | Australia — | 5 |
| America — | 15 | Europe — | 8 |
| Asia — | 5 |
The fate of the Pioneer Plan hangs in the balance. National and continental committees are ready to act promptly, funds are available to National Assemblies unable to execute their own assignments, and the Universal House of Justice is praying fervently at the Holy Shrines that the required number of souls will arise to meet the challenge of this critical hour. Who are the two hundred lovers of Bahá’u’lláh who will respond for the triumph of His Cause and complete victory of the goals for this first stage of the Nine Year Plan?
The Universal House of Justice Answers Questions About the Kitáb-i-Aqdas[edit]
National Spiritual Assembly of the
Bahá’ís of the United States
Dear Bahá’í Friends,
We have received a number of inquiries as to the translation and publication of the Kitáb-i-Aqdas from friends who are unable to read it in its original form. We feel the following extract from a letter written on behalf of the beloved Guardian by his secretary dated December 27, 1941, addressed to the National Spiritual Assembly of India and Burma clarifies this question:
“The reason it (the Kitáb-i-Aqdas) is not circulated amongst all the Bahá’ís is, first, because the Cause is not yet ready or sufficiently matured to put all the provisions of the Aqdas into effect, and second, because it is a Book which requires to be supplemented by detailed explanations and to be translated into other languages by a competent body of experts. The provisions of the Aqdas are gradually, according to the progress of the Cause, being put into effect already, both in the East and the West ...”
As is well known, the beloved Guardian has already given in God Passes By, p. 214-215, a summary of the contents of this Most Holy Book, and included the codification of all the laws of the Kitáb-i-Aqdas as one of the objectives of the Ten Year Crusade. It is the intention of the Universal House of Justice to achieve this objective by publishing a synopsis and codification of these laws during the current Nine-Year Plan.
Much of the Kitáb-i-Aqdas has already been translated by the beloved Guardian and has been given to the friends in the West, although not designated, in every case, as coming from the Most Holy Book. We give you below a list of such references for your guidance:
| Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh | Sections XXXVII, LVI, LXX, LXXI, LXXII, XCVIII, CV, CLV, CLIX, and CLXV. |
| The Promised Day Is Come | pp. 26 (1st para.), 36-37 (until the end of 2nd para.) 40 (2nd para.), and 84-85 (until the end of 1st para.) |
| The Challenging Requirements of the Present Hour | pp. 16-17 (until the end of 1st para.) |
| Bahá’í Administration | p. 21 (1st para.) |
| The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh | p. 134 (2nd para.) |
| The Bahá’í Community (1963 Edition) | p. 40 (2nd & 3rd paras.) |
| Star of the West, Vol. XIV | pp. 112-114 |
The two reasons given by the Guardian in the extract of the letter quoted above need further amplification:
- As regards the first reason, regarding the timeliness of putting into effect all the provisions of
the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, it must be borne in mind
that the beloved Guardian further stated:
“The Laws revealed by Bahá’u’lláh in the Aqdas are, whenever practicable and not in direct conflict with the Civil Laws of the land, absolutely binding on every believer or Bahá’í institution whether in the East or in the West. Certain laws, such as fasting, obligatory prayers, the consent of the parents before marriage, avoidance of alcoholic drinks, monogamy, should be regarded by all believers as universally and vitally applicable at the present time. Others have been formulated in anticipation of a state of society destined to emerge from the chaotic conditions that prevail today. When the Aqdas is published this matter will be further explained and elucidated. What has not been formulated in the Aqdas, in addition to matters of detail and of secondary importance arising out of the application of the laws already formulated by Bahá’u’lláh, will have to be enacted by the Universal House of Justice ...” (BAHÁ’Í NEWS, October, 1935)
The Guardian has further written:
“It should be noted in this connection that this Administrative Order is fundamentally different from anything that any Prophet has previously established, inasmuch as Bahá’u’lláh has Himself revealed its principles, established its institutions, appointed the person to interpret His Word and conferred the necessary authority on the body designed to supplement and apply His legislative ordinances. Therein lies the secret of its strength, its fundamental distinction, and the guarantee against disintegration and schism.” (World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 145)
- As to the second reason given by the beloved
Guardian in the extract referred to above, it must be
noted that the supplementary material to go with the
publication of the laws of the Kitáb-i-Aqdas may well
include the following items, all of which require careful research and translation:
- The Annex to the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, the “Questions and Answers.” (God Passes By, p. 219)
- Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh in “elaboration and elucidation of some of the laws He (Bahá’u’lláh) had already laid down.” (God Passes By, p. 216)
- Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh establishing “subsidiary ordinances designed to supplement the provisions of His Most Holy Book.” (God Passes By, p. 216)
- The Letters and Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and
[Page 3]
Shoghi Effendi in interpretation of the laws and ordinances of the Kitáb-i-Aqdas.
- Other explanations and footnotes that may be required in elucidation of the provisions of that Book.
We hope the foregoing will clarify the matter for the
friends.
—THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
December 6, 1965
Bahá’í World Center
Universal House of Justice Cables Tribute to Allen McDaniel[edit]
Informed of the passing of Allen Boyer McDaniel on December 18, 1965, the Universal House of Justice sent the following cablegram to the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States:
GRIEVED LEARN PASSING DEVOTED GREATLY LOVED SERVANT FAITH ALLEN MCDANIEL. TIRELESS ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATED MOST DIFFICULT PERIOD CONSTRUCTION MOTHER TEMPLE WEST. MANIFOLD SERVICES MEMBER NATIONAL ASSEMBLY SPANNING NEARLY QUARTER CENTURY UNFORGETTABLE. PRAYING SHRINES PROGRESS SOUL ABUNDANT BLESSINGS ABHÁ KINGDOM.
Mr. McDaniel had a long and distinguished career as an engineer, executive, and educator. He served on the faculty of a number of universities, and as an expediting engineer for the United States Army during World War I, supervised extensive construction projects in the United States and its possessions, was the author of many technical books, and held membership in numerous professional associations.
To the Bahá’ís Mr. McDaniel was best known for his association with the design and construction of the Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois. It began in the early 1920’s when he was on the faculty of the Engineering Department of the University of Illinois, soon after he had first heard of the Bahá’í Faith. He was invited as a consulting engineer to advise on the elevation of the main floor of the Temple structure, and soon thereafter he headed the search for materials and methods for the construction of the Temple itself, a search that led to the John J. Early Studio in Washington, D.C., which produced both the exterior and interior ornamentation of the Bahá’í House of Worship.
For nearly a quarter of a century Mr. McDaniel continued to act in a professional capacity on the Advisory Board of the Temple Trustees, at the same time serving as member of the National Spiritual Assembly from 1925 to 1945, much of that time as its chairman.
Following several years of ill health, Mr. McDaniel moved from Waterford, Virginia to Lemon Cove, California, where he was residing at the time of his death.
Mr. McDaniel’s book, The Spell of the Temple, published in 1953 by Vantage Press, Inc., New York, N.Y., gives a fascinating account of the erection of the Mother Temple of the West from the time of its inception to its public dedication in 1953.
Edward Struven, Early Bahá’í, Passes Away in Florida[edit]
GRIEVED NEWS PASSING EDWARD STRUVEN DEVOTED SERVANT FAITH ASSOCIATED EARLY DAYS TEMPLE CONSTRUCTION PRAYERS SHRINES PROGRESS HIS SOUL ABHÁ KINGDOM
Mr. Edward Struven, well known to many American Bahá’ís for his long years of service in connection with the early stages of the construction of Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois, passed away in Bradenton, Florida, on December 31, 1965.
Mr. Struven became a follower of Bahá’u’lláh in 1898 and was among the believers who welcomed ‘Abdu’l-Bahá on His arrival in New York in 1912. In 1923 Mr. Struven, a construction engineer, was asked to assist in the construction of the Temple. Many Bahá’ís who visited the Temple long before any superstructure appeared above the foundation will remember the exciting image Mr. Struven gave them of the glorious edifice that would soon begin to dominate the landscape and lakefront area of Wilmette.
In 1943 Mr. Struven visited Arizona and then settled in Florida where he continued to teach the Faith actively until his death.
May 23, 1877 — December 12, 1965
The above dates encompass the life-span of Miss Margaret Lentz, early believer, ardent teacher and devoted pioneer. She came to the United States from her home in Germany, spent some time in the eastern part of this country, served for a short period at the National Bahá’í Center in the early years of its establishment in Wilmette, went to Africa as one of the first pioneers to that continent, and returned to Europe, settling in Austria, where she worked indefatigably for the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh until her death.
The love, devotion and gratitude expressed by the National Spiritual Assembly of Austria for Margaret Lentz and the eulogy by Hand of the Cause Dr. Adelbert Mühlschlegel at her interment, bear eloquent testimony to the reverent and loving regard in which she was held. Her work on this plane is not forgotten or ended, for the friends of Austria have paid her a great tribute in the following words: “It is our desire to faithfully carry on her work which she has concluded on this earthly plane in such a way that she may rejoice and be pleased with us.”
A true follower of Bahá’u’lláh, self-sacrificing and wholly devoted—such was Margaret Lentz.
Baha’i Holy Days Recognized[edit]
Superintendents of Schools in two more localities have recently granted permission for children of Bahá’ís to be absent from school on Bahá’í Holy Days. They are: Bloomington, Indiana and St. Paul, Minnesota.
Fourth South American Teaching Congress Held in Buenos Aires[edit]
Fourth Regional Teaching Congress of South America, held in Buenos Aires, Argentina, November 5, 6 and 7, 1965 with Hand of the Cause, Jalál Kházeh, Board members Rangvald Taetz, Margot Worley, Edmund Miessler, Athos Costas, Hooper Dunbar and Leopoldo Caraballo and representatives from the National Spiritual Assemblies of Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay. Vali Samadani, chairman of the NSA of Argentina, welcomed the attendants on behalf of the host assembly. The various countries reported on progress in the Nine Year Plan with special consultation on ways and means to teach and consolidate the Indian teaching work.
Much of the consultation at the Teaching Congress
centered around Bahá’í community life, relationship of
the Hands and Auxiliary Boards to the Administrative
organs of the Faith and the fundamental need to live a
Bahá’í life as a basis for any teaching. Mr. Kházeh
frequently cited the statements of Shoghi Effendi in
respect to success in teaching.
Hand of the Cause Mr. Kházeh (center) expressed
gratitude to the Hands of the Cause in the Western
Hemisphere for calling the Teaching Congress. Margot Worley (left) reviewed some of the points made
at the previous Teaching Congress in Georgetown, British Guiana. Hooper Dunbar (right) reiterated the points
mentioned by the Universal House of Justice as applying to every Bahá’í in the Nine Year Plan: teaching,
living the life, contributing to the Fund and studying the
Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh.
Bogotá, Colombia Hosts Regional Teaching Congress[edit]
Regional Teaching Congress of Colombia, Venezuela and Ecuador welcomed at Bogotá, Colombia Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds by Hand of the Cause,
Jalál Kházeh.
The second of a series of four South American
Regional Teaching Congresses convened by the Hands
of the Cause in the Western Hemisphere and the Auxiliary Boards was held July 30 — August 1, 1965 at the
Bogotá, Colombia Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds. Mr. Jalál Kházeh,
Hand of the Cause, welcomed all those present in the
name of the Hands of the Cause in the Western Hemisphere and expressed his desire that during the sessions
of this historic event ordained by the Universal House
of Justice and convened by the Hands of the Cause, the
essential purpose would be an exchange of ideas and
experiences, especially mass conversion, as well as the
mutual study of the best ways and means of serving the
threshold of Bahá’u’lláh. It was hoped that the fruits of
this Congress would be the development of plans and a
new impetus in spreading the Faith in the three representative countries, as well as having a clearer understanding of the relationship between the institution of
the Hands of the Cause and their Auxiliary Board
members with the administrative bodies of the Faith.
The congress was blessed by the attendance of the following persons: Hand of the Cause, Mr. Jalál Kházeh; Auxiliary Board Members, Mrs. Gayle Woolson of Ecuador, Eve Nicklin of Venezuela and Donald Witzel of Colombia; the representative of the National Spiritual Assembly of Ecuador, Mrs. Isabel Pavón de Calderón; eight members of the National Spiritual Assembly of Colombia and Bahá’ís from the Colombian communities of Bogotá, Barranquilla, Bucaramanga, Cali, Manizalez, Pereira, Ibagué, Cienaga de Oro and Sanbito.
A cable of greeting and love from the congress was approved to be sent to the Universial House of Justice and the Hands of the Cause in the Holy Land and a reply received from the Universal House of Justice as follows: GRATEFUL NEWS CONGRESS BOGOTA PRESENCE HAND CAUSE KHAZEH PRAYING SHRINES CONFIRMATIONS BAHA’U’LLAH WILL SURROUND YOU BRING NEW ZEAL FRIENDS TEACHING EFFORTS SURPASS GOALS NINE YEAR PLAN.
There was excellent consultation during the three days on the themes of the “The Bahá’í Civilization,” “The Nine Year Plan,” related to each country participating, “National Assemblies,” “Teaching the Masses,” “The Protection of the Faith,” and “Administration of the National Office.” Mr. Kházeh enriched the discussion from his vast store of experience and wisdom.
First National Youth Congress of Brazil held in early September, with Hand of the Cause, Jalál Kházeh.
FIRST TEACHING CONFERENCE HELD IN QUICHE[edit]
Left above, Bahá’ís and friends at
meeting in Coban, Guatemala, with
Auxiliary Board member, Artemus
Lamb. Photo below shows first National Teaching Conference held in
Quiche, Guatemala, September 24
and 25, with Artemus Lamb present.
Kenya Goes Forward on Goals of Plan[edit]
The National Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Kenya in Africa have announced the achievement of two goals of the Nine Year Plan. The National Assembly has been officially incorporated and also the local Bahá’í Center of Nairobi has been converted into a National Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds.
A few months ago, the National Assembly of Kenya organized eleven teaching conferences for the purpose of having special discussions on the Nine Year Plan. Eleven conferences were organized out of which ten were successfully held. These occurred in Malava, Namawanga, Nairobi, Tudodo, Kilifi, Kisii, Transnzoia, Nandi, Menu and Masianda. These ten conferences brought forth a total of 1,350 in attendance. In addition to Hand of the Cause Enoch Olinga, many friends travelled to these various places to conduct the conferences and to make them a success. Another series is being planned for early 1966.
Four provincial teaching committees have also been organized to expand the work in Western Province, Rift Valley Province, Nyanza Province and the Coast Province. Since May, they have been instrumental in enrolling 1,610 people. Much of their time has been utilized also in consolidation of the Assemblies and large groups.
The first native believer of Greenland, Hendrik Olsen,
(second from right) mentioned in December BAHÁ’Í NEWS. His wife (left) and son are present, together
with Mrs. Johanna Hoeg, Auxiliary Board member, and
Dr. Rafatt, who journeyed to Greenland from Denmark
to witness Mr. Olsen’s declaration on July 15, 1965. Mrs.
Hoeg’s and Mr. Rafatt’s presence in Greenland resulted
in much excellent publicity for the Faith. In Upernavik,
Mr. Olsen’s home, a public meeting was attended by
100 people.
National Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds of Alaska located three miles south of Anchorage. The office of the National Spiritual Assembly is in the rear at the right.
Many Visitors Attracted to West Cameroon, East Nigeria Conferences[edit]
Right: Bahá’ís and friends at Teaching Conference in Ekpene Tete, Eastern Nigeria, August 28-29, 1965.
Below left: Teaching Conference in Tinto, West Cameroon, October 9-10, 1965, which attracted 242 people.
Below right: Members of Tinto District Teaching Committee, with three National Assembly members present.
The regional and district teaching committees have
been very actively planning and holding village teaching conferences which have not only been a strong
encouragement to believers, giving all who attended a
chance to deepen their understanding of the Faith and
to ask many questions, but have also been the cause of
the gaining interest of non-Bahá’ís in each area.
The first conference was held at Mkpot, near Mamfe, West Cameroon on August 7. About forty-five Bahá’ís and friends gathered from ten communities in nearby villages. The chief of the village gave a hall for the conference which was gaily decorated with posters announcing the meeting. The entire population of Mkpot gathered to hear the singing of Bahá’í songs as the believers from the several villages arrived. Among items on the program discussed was the importance of the Nine Year Plan as it concerns Cameroon Republic, and special contributions were offered for the establishment of a teaching institute.
Eastern Nigeria was the scene of the next conference held in Ekpene Tete near Calabar, central to a number of rapidly increasing Bahá’í communities. All who attended were inspired by the talks and general discussions, and the conference was noteworthy for the active participation of old and new Bahá’ís.
The rest of the conferences were held in West Cameroon, the third being held at Muyuka, near Victoria. More than twenty Bahá’ís gathered from several communities in the area to enjoy a varied program which included a ‘mock’ election of a local spiritual assembly. This conference was inspired, not only by the many visitors, but also by the presence of Auxiliary Board Member, Mr. Manfred Ekongwe.
242 Attend Tinto Conference[edit]
The largest conference was held in Tinto, Mamfe Division, on October 9 and 10, when many Bahá’í communities were represented among the 242 believers, visitors and non-Bahá’ís attending. The conference was held in the Customary Court Hall and invitations were sent out to the important chiefs and quarterheads of nearby villages, many of whom attended. The program included not only social, spiritual and administrative teachings of the Faith, but again there was a study of the Nine Year Plan and a discussion on the fulfillment of prophecy.
The last two conferences coincided on October 23 and 24, one held at Kembong near Mamfe, and the other at Mutengene near Victoria. At Kembong the meeting reached its climax as two believers stepped forward to offer to spend short periods of teaching in two of the goal towns in the area, and two declarations were accepted.
At Mutengene, which is also a goal town for the formation of an assembly by next Riḍván, the believers gathered in the home of the secretary of the group. Again many friends had come from nearby communities, including Auxiliary Board member, Mr. Samuel Smart from Victoria.
In all cases the believers in the ‘host’ villages contributed both food and shelter to the visitors and the meetings were very successful because of the fine Bahá’í spirit and hospitality which prevailed. Almost all of the conferences were attended by at least one member of the National Spiritual Assembly as well as the members of each regional or district teaching committee.
Know Your Baha’i Literature[edit]
“The World Order of Baha’u’llah”[edit]
(Reviewed by Marion Hofman)
The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh is a legacy to the Bahá’ís and to the world which our generation can but dimly appreciate. This series of essays, written from 1929 to 1936, by Shoghi Effendi, the Guardian of the Bahá’í Faith, embody in bold, vast, and certain outline the pattern and the evolving momentum of World Order.
It is a unique book, the first and only one of its kind, for its appearance depended upon a fitting climax in history and upon the assured knowledge which only the Guardian of God’s Faith could bring. Here is no tentative approach to the events of our time, no deduction of trend based upon reasonable observation and subject to all the limitations of the human mind. Here, rather, is the consummate revelation of a process, divine and irresistible, which today is surrounding and motivating the actions of humanity on the threshold of its mightiest age—the epoch of world civilization.
Pathetic Efforts of World Leaders[edit]
The seven years which produced these essays can be seen in retrospect as a critical but stagnant time, when beneath a relative calm the roots of disintegration were fastening on every social institution. In the experience of nations they represent the culmination of that period of respite and fatuous security between two wars, which in reality was a breeding-ground of superficial panaceas obscuring the true and bitter situation. While some sixty governments renounced war as an instrument of national policy, through their indifference, lack of vision, or unscrupulous acts they were preparing the most frightful war in recorded history. They believed or professed to believe, that peace could be had for no price but a promise and the ink on a piece of paper. The intricate and solemn responsibilities of interdependence, and the sacrifices and labors which the building of a peaceful international society would require were passed by with a thoughtlessness nothing short of suicidal. Barely-repressed hostilities, warning signals of economic disruption, the introduction of shameless philosophies of government, and finally the outbreak of conquest in two widely-separated areas—all were neglected and glossed over by a world unwilling to abandon its traditional divisions for the dynamic task of universal reconstruction. “How pathetic indeed,” came the Guardian’s penetrating judgment in 1931, “are the efforts of those leaders of human institutions who, in utter disregard of the spirit of the age, are striving to adjust national processes, suited to the ancient days of self-contained nations, to an age which must either achieve the unity of the world, as adumbrated by Bahá’u’lláh, or perish.”
For Bahá’ís a Seed-Time[edit]
For the Bahá’ís these seven years will also be remembered as a seed-time of relative quiet, not of evil but of vigorous and fruitful days. For these were the years immediately preceding the opening of the greatest collective enterprise in the first century of the Faith, the inception of that Divine Plan which is so intimately entwined with the world’s destiny. They were, moreover, in the most literal sense the last stretch of calm before the Judgment Day. And it was precisely through the influence of the Guardian’s writings, which poured in a continuous flow from Haifa, that the tiny community of followers of Bahá’u’lláh was quickened and trained to take up its role in the world-shaking events so soon to be unleashed upon an unsuspecting generation.
A Vision of Persuasive Power[edit]
As humanity neared its zero-hour and the clash of irreconcilable forces loomed ahead, upon the very eve of that final and universal struggle for the destruction of outworn systems, which is still raging and can only end with the emergence of a world society, the Guardian of the Bahá’í Faith raised a clear and unequivocal call summoning men of all nations, races, classes, and beliefs to a single and a sacred goal. “It is towards this goal—the goal of a new World Order, Divine in origin, all-embracing in scope, equitable in principle, challenging in its features—that a harassed humanity must strive.”
In some such terms as these, sweeping and irresistible as the movement of nations at their crucial hour, we who support the life-germ of a potent Faith must seek the meaning of this remarkable guidebook, The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh. Toward it Bahá’ís have a special responsibility, for here are contained the indispensable truths which will clarify and invigorate our every activity. Above all, here is a vision of persuasive power—the vision of a world in birth—whose dynamic impact is certain to unlock the convictions of masses of men who, in the not distant future, will rally to the standard of Bahá’u’lláh.
All the Fundamentals of World Order[edit]
To study this book is to realize that, within its scope, are all the fundamentals of World Order. Why world civilization must be spiritually based, the unique fusion of Bahá’u’lláh’s “regenerating Spirit” with His “supreme instrument for the establishment of the Most Great Peace,” the social principles which will buttress world society, its root in the organic oneness of mankind, its structure and key institutions, the distinction of this Divine Economy from all other religious and political systems, the authentic sources and explicit safeguards of world unity, the significance and function of World Order as the consummation of “man’s collective life on this planet,” the challenge of its inevitable unfoldment to all resistant institutions, America’s predominant role as its “champion-builder,” the “fire of ordeal” through which humanity is bound to pass with its assured outcome in the gradual welding together of discordant elements into one all-encompassing world commonwealth, and finally the entrancing vista of a “Day when the kingdoms of this world shall have become the Kingdom of Bahá’u’lláh”—these are but some of the themes which the Guardian unfolds in seven matchless essays.
No Single Word Dispensable[edit]
These are pages so packed with meaning that they cannot by any effort be truly summarized. In the writings of Shoghi Effendi no single word is dispensable. Nothing less than his own two hundred pages can encompass the essence of World Order which he portrays. Nor is one essay to be preferred above another, for like the World Order itself, they are organic and progressive; each supplements and evolves the Guardian’s thought with its own individual purpose and use. So compact are these chapters, so revealing, inexhaustible, and often astonishing, even to Bahá’ís, that they exercise a constant claim and bestow an ever-renewing stimulus and joy.
Particular Essays for Prior Attention[edit]
Perhaps for those approaching the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh for the first time, it is wise to point out two sections in particular, The Goal of a New World Order (1931) and The Unfoldment of World Civilization (1936). The first is a classic statement, perfect and irrefutable, of the world’s plight, its travail, and the promise and foundation of the coming Order. It is a statement which grows more valid with every passing day, and ought to be known by the intelligent citizenry of this and every land. Both essays are without doubt the creative source of concepts which even now are transforming and elevating the currents of contemporary thought to a recognition of humanity’s coming of age and the steady unfoldment of world commonwealth.
Still a third section indispensable to students is The Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh (1934), giving definitive form to the essentials of Bahá’í belief which are requisite to membership. Yet basic as this chapter is for students, it has a thousand-fold interest for Bahá’ís themselves whose “first obligation” is “to strive to obtain a more adequate understanding of the significance of Bahá’u’lláh’s stupendous Revelation.” Here is the Guardian’s own explanation and measuring-rod of “certain fundamental verities ... which lie at the basis of our Faith and the integrity of which it is our first duty to safeguard.” The marvellous virility of the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh is vividly glimpsed in this description of its source and development, for “the bedrock on which this Administrative Order is founded is God’s immutable Purpose for mankind in this day.”
Impact on First Recipients[edit]
Those who open The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh for the first time will always have in store a vital and lasting experience. Yet it is something to have lived through the impact of these messages as published from year to year, absorbing them with passionate concentration, and discovering within one’s inmost nature the traces of their steadily-maturing effect. With consummate wisdom and skill the Guardian led out the small band of Bahá’u’lláh’s followers, expanding their wisdom, deepening their understanding, rousing their energies, until no longer immersed in the processes of a dying civilization they stood, ready and poised for their task, upon the threshold of that new World Order which is the chief object of Divine Revelation in our age.
Transmuting Potency[edit]
The fulfillment of Bahá’u’lláh’s great remedy for society requires the instrumentality of conscious and willing lives who, recognizing in the daily struggles of our time the birthpangs of World Order, will become its first and loyal citizens. This book contains the potency to transmute all those who respond to its import into men and women for whom “the earth is but one country and mankind its citizens.” In The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh the Guardian of the Bahá’í Faith has unloosed in his readers such energies and hopes as shall never be stilled until the wondrous edifice of the Most Great Peace has been forever reared.
The National Administrative and Teaching Committee of Cambodia meeting with Jamshed Fozdar, chairman of the National Assembly of Vietnam who are presently responsible for the work in Cambodia. Cambodia has already achieved its Nine Year goal of the required number of local assemblies and are working toward completing the number of centers by Riḍván, 1966. The Faith in Cambodia has been recognized by Royal Decree. Land is currently being purchased and it is planned to build the Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds on it by this coming Riḍván, the location being on one of the main avenues of the city of Phnom Penh.
National Spiritual Assembly Represented at White House Conference[edit]
Our National Spiritual Assembly was represented at the White House Conference on International Cooperation held in Washington, D.C. from Nov. 28 to Dec. 1. For three days some 2,000 delegates listened to panels dealing with areas of human endeavor where further cooperation would help establish peace in our world. Thirty diverse subjects ranged from space to human rights. Questions and comments were invited from the floor. Eventually 300 recommendations were ready for our government to consider.
From a Bahá’í point of view, it was apparent how slowly and laboriously man evolves in the direction of a God-given plan for peace, security and justice. A sampling of the recommendations from Committee Reports of the National Citizens’ Commission will demonstrate this fact:
- “That it be made normal practice for all university students to acquire a second world language, preferably one of the four official languages of the United Nations.” (Report of the Committee on Culture and Intellectual Exchange, p. 25.)
- “That we recognize that the world is being made one, not through political or other ideological notions, but by scientific and technological fact ...” (Ibid. p. 30.)
- “That public and private assistance to raise the educational level of developing countries be materially increased at once ...” (Report of the Committee on Education and Training, p. 14.)
- “That the United States delete the Connally Amendment to its reservation to the declaration accepting the compulsory jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice ...” (Report of the Committee on Development of International Law, p. 1.)
- “That the United States encourage a more widespread acceptance of true third-party attitudes in the peacekeeping functions of the United Nations and greater utilization by Members and by the Organization of third parties in mediatory, conciliatory, and all other forms of peacekeeping efforts.” (Report of the Committee on Peacekeeping Operations, p. 23. Ambassador Arthur Goldberg was quoted as saying, “We must find new strength and new capabilities for building, brick by brick, the community of man.”, p. 1. The report says that “we have yet to learn how to generate that frame of mind and spirit that makes it possible to move on ...”, p. 2.)
- “That the United States support the creation of a U.N. Peace Force....” (Report of the Committee on Arms Control and Disarmament, p. 38.) The Report also proposed “a series of steps which taken together would make a systematic and significant beginning to more far-reaching disarmament.” (p. 2.)
- “That Governmental and private agencies join in launching a nationwide campaign among American youth to learn a second language.” (Report on the Committee on Youth Activities, p. 20.)
- “The Committee endorses efforts to develop universal treaties and conventions on human rights.” (Report of the Committee on Social Welfare, p. 35.)
- “That the United States promptly ratify the four human rights conventions which are now pending before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.” (Report of the Committee on Human Rights, p. 24.)
- “That the United States plan in advance for observance of International Human Rights Year in 1968.” (Ibid. p. 24.)
- “That the United States withdraw its self-judging reservation to its acceptance of the compulsory jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice.” (Report of the Committee on Peaceful Settlement of Disputes, p. 27.)
- “That the U.S. and voluntary organizations support international cooperation programs to improve educational opportunities for women at all levels including training in foreign language ...” (Report of the Committee on Women, p. 19.)
Such recommendations will serve as guidelines in
reshaping our society. They do not surprise or appall
Bahá’ís. They move in the direction of the world plan
enunciated by Bahá’u’lláh already in the last century.
One high government official spoke of the enormity of the problems relating to peace. He said they make pygmies of everyone. He acknowledged they must be approached somewhat “on our knees.” Prayers, not implications, are needed, he said.
At the huge banquet at which Ambassador Arthur Goldberg spoke, each guest was given a copy of The United Nations: Twenty Years published by the United Nations Association of the USA (345 East 46th Street, N.Y.C., N.Y. 10017, priced at $1.50 each.) For readable and timely information on United Nations matters this book is highly recommended. Bahá’ís will be pleased to find our NSA listed under Council of Member Organizations of the UNA, p. 119. (Also recommended for year-round study is Clark M. Eichelberger’s UN—The First Twenty Years.)
Bahá’ís know that the Lesser Peace will be established because God so wills it, because there are men who care, because there are those who struggle to cooperate. But only God’s plan through Bahá’u’lláh can establish the Most Great Peace.
Representative of the NSA
of the Bahá’ís of the USA
First Training Institute Enkindles Pioneering Spirit[edit]
The first Pioneer Training Institute ever attempted in the United States, sponsored by the Foreign Goals Committee, was held at Davison Bahá’í School December 27 through 31, 1965. Over fifty Bahá’ís eager to gain knowledge as well as inspiration for their future pioneering came from near and far. For the five days of the Institute they attended classes from morning through evening sessions, time being taken out only for meals. The courses were intensely interesting, varied and inspiring so that the time passed quickly and each one went away feeling that his plans for serving the Cause of God were more clear, well laid and confirmed.
Each of the six members of the staff who conducted courses had pioneered outside the United States, some for over ten years. Thus the teachers spoke from a wealth of experience gained at their posts of widely varying types and locations. Auxiliary Board member William Maxwell taught the source and pattern of Bahá’í pioneering, using Nabil’s Narrative of the Dawn-Breakers for text and showing how the plan for pioneering was laid by the Báb as He guided the Letters of the Living. Mrs. Florence Mayberry, also an Auxiliary Board member discussed the role and motivation of a pioneer, giving helpful guides for the Bahá’í teacher who is suddenly confronted with unexpected situations in his efforts to spread the Faith. Dr. David Earl, recently returned from thirteen years in the Far East gave a comprehensive picture of religions and social movements in Asia while Mrs. Joy Earl told of the daily life, customs and habits of behavior in Japan and Korea. Relating some of the everyday experiences that go with living in the West Indies Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Maxwell brought vividly to the students practical as well as spiritual guidelines for the Bahá’í who goes there to live. Mr. Jameson Bond from Canada, a Bahá’í and pioneer who is trained in the science of anthropology, combined the knowledge of his field with a thorough study of the Bahá’í Teachings to show how those who travel to new places can understand other peoples in the deepest sense of the word and thereby be guided to teach in the best way. He showed also how the plan for spreading the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh is definite as to time and place, and how ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in His Tablets of the Divine Plan urges the believers, like the army of a Divine Commander, to press on for victory.
Dramatic stories of pioneering experiences were shared one evening by those who had pioneered abroad during the Ten Year Crusade. Among those who contributed to this very dramatic and spiritually inspiring evening were: Mrs. Catherine Cole, Miss Bettijane Walker, Herbert Vaughan, Mrs. Luella McKay and son, Mr. Bruce Matthew. Mr. Dale Enger, pioneer to Asia also shared his thoughts and experiences in mass conversion.
During one evening session Mr. Fred McClusky, a former volunteer in the Peace Corps told of his experiences, contrasting the attitudes and concepts found there with those of the Bahá’ís. Colored slides of Bahá’ís and their activities in Central America were shown on one evening, while on the closing night Christopher Ruhe led the group in singing.
High point of the whole session was the decision by one of the students to proceed immediately to her pioneering post. Mrs. Elouise Sanders of Savannah, Georgia, granted permission for a pilgrimage to Haifa in early January, came to the school prepared to pioneer in Africa wherever she was needed. While at the school her post of Liberia was selected, visa and necessary papers obtained and all joined to give her a warm and joyful sendoff. Others expect to leave for their posts in the near future.
This Institute, made possible by the devoted cooperation of so many who have already given their hearts and time to teaching the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh to those in other lands is, the Committee fully expects, the first of many more similar sessions. At frequent intervals and in various places the friends will gather in the future in order that those who long to serve Bahá’u’lláh in this most worthy of all ways may be helped to attain their purpose.
Those who attended the historic Deep South Institute held November 25 to 28 at Waveland, Mississippi and reported in January Bahá’í News. The Hands in Haifa cabled the following message to the Conference: “Extend loving greetings friends attending historic Institute. Assure ardent prayers success laying foundation outstanding victories vital teaching work in area.”
Wilmette Sponsors Human Rights Day Program[edit]
Human Rights Day was observed at the Bahá’í House of Worship when the Wilmette Bahá’í community sponsored a unique program to honor Dr. Martin H. Bickham, 86 year old Wilmette Methodist layman, as the “Father of Human Rights” in Illinois. Dr. Bickham’s record in the field of race relations and human rights groups spans over half a century, and he was on the first commission for race relations in Illinois in 1943. He has worked since that time with the local Bahá’í community, serving with the late Horace Holley when Mr. Holley was NSA secretary, in establishing clear lines on freedom of worship, rights of public accommodation, and rights of residence for all people, and specifically relating to the minority race members of the Bahá’í Faith.
In recognition of this outstanding local citizen, the Wilmette Bahá’ís obtained effective metropolitan and suburban press coverage as well as having the honoree on a popular Chicago TV program, “The Morning Show” which mentioned the Bahá’í program several times. Invitations were extended to an extensive list of local dignitaries, as well as those citizens involved in human rights groups. Bahá’í communities in Chicago and the Temple area also extended invitations to many. Coverage was wide, indeed.
The night of the program was rainy; intense fog prevailed. In spite of this, over 200 people attended, many coming into the Bahá’í House of Worship for the first time, and all moved by this program.
Dr. David S. Ruhe chaired the evening, with an effective talk by Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh on “Working Together For Human Rights” setting the mood for the evening. Then, brief mentions of various aspects of Dr. Bickham’s career were given by Dr. Franklyn Haiman, Illinois chairman for the American Civil Liberties Union; by Robert Young, president of Wilmette Human Relations Committee; by Mrs. Harvey Aki, Japanese-American Wilmette housewife, and by Rev. Bruce Gideon, assistant minister of the Wilmette Methodist Church where Dr. Bickham has been a member for 48 years. Senator Paul Douglas of Illinois sent a telegram in tribute, as did the Church Federation of Chicago, and the Chicago Metropolitan Human Relations Commission.
The presentation of the beautifully designed citation plaque was made by Wilson Rankin, Glencoe Bahá’í
Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh (left) and Dr. Martin H. Bickham admire the citation honoring the Wilmette human
rights leader. Wilson Rankin of Glencoe holds the
plaque designed by Lynn Hutchinson as Dr. David S.
Ruhe looks on.
who has worked for 20 years with Dr. Bickham in this
field of human relations in northern Illinois. The tremendous ovation following the presentation was partly
for Mr. Rankin as well as for the honored guest.
In accepting the tributes to him, Dr. Bickham said that three significant movements brought the people together that evening: the founding of the Illinois Race Relations Commission in 1943, the holding of the first International Conference of Bahá’ís held in Wilmette in 1944 in the 100th year of the Bahá’í Faith, and the founding of the United Nations in 1945.
He cited steps of progress in the years following, toward human rights as they related directly to his work with members of the Bahá’í Faith, and he moved those Bahá’ís attending with his glowing references to the many times he shared efforts with Horace Holley, efforts resulting in opening hotels to all races, establishing the Bahá’í Home in Wilmette and freedom to worship.
The follow-up on this event is a renewed interest in study of the Faith by casual friends, an intensified understanding of the Bahá’ís locally, and a greater appreciation of the many friends of Dr. Bickham that this outstanding gentleman has been given a public honor long due to him, and given by the Bahá’ís of his own home town.
At a winter party given in Chicago, December 19 as a
follow-up to the Woodlawn Project of last summer. The
fifty children who attended enjoyed games and singing, a favorite among the games being one called
“pioneering.”
[Page 13]
At the Youth Retreat sponsored by the National Teaching Committee and held November 25 to 28 at Dexter,
Michigan at the home of Mary Wolter. The ninety-three youth and their friends who came from thirty-three localities and nine states held study classes and discussion periods throughout the weekend at which there were four enrollments and the promise of several more to come soon.
Bahá’ís Open United Nations Office in New York[edit]
The new Bahá’í United Nations Office, consisting of two small but attractive rooms in a new building facing the United Nations, will well serve the purposes of the international Bahá’í UN representative, the national Bahá’í UN representative and the United Nations Committee of the Bahá’ís. Mrs. Etta Mae Mikhael will be at the office two days a week to serve as executive assistant.
The Bahá’í United Nations Committee met in the United Nations Plaza building for the first time in December 1965 and was given the use of a fine conference room on the same floor as their office. It is expected that the newly opened office will add greatly to the prestige of the Faith as well as offer the convenience of work space. Members of the Committee plan to have an extensive literature display and to announce the address of the office to other nongovernmental organizations.
UN Official Shows Slides at Birthday Celebration[edit]
A capacity crowd from all walks of Isthmian life gathered in the newly inaugurated Cristobal YMCA auditorium Tuesday evening, October 19, to celebrate with the Canal Zone Bahá’ís the 146th birthday anniversary of the Báb.
The YMCA manager narrated a collection of color slides covering his extensive travels as a United Nations official in the Near and Middle East during the United Nations demarcation operation between Egypt and Israel.
Mrs. Leota Lockman, chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Panama, spoke on “The Importance of the Bahá’í Teaching in this Day.”
Organist Charles Peterson followed with the presentation of his latest composition, the musical score of a Bahá’í prayer, The Tablet of Aḥmad. As the music was heard publicly for the first time, his wife, Eda, intoned the words of the prayer.
There were eighty-five people present, sixty-five of whom were guests.
The evening’s activities were brought to close with a repast prepared by the YMCA’s catering service.
Washington Bahá’ís Honor Early Believer[edit]
Dr. ‘Alí Kuli Khán presently living in Washington, D.C. and known by believers as the translator of many talks and Tablets of the Master, was honored last Fall at a surprise party given by the Bahá’ís of the area. Dr. Khán, who speaks regularly at the public meetings in Washington, expressed his appreciation at the demonstration of love and devotion by the friends and stated how especially happy he was that at last the Bahá’ís have purchased a house to be used as a Bahá’í center in the nation’s capital. At the time of writing Dr. Khán is ill and hospitalized.
Bahá’í Children Observe Holy Day by Visiting Former School[edit]
Elham and Ahram Jazab, shown in the center, observed the Birthday of Bahá’u’lláh by paying a visit to their former classmates at Moses McKissack School in Nashville, Tennessee. These children, daughters of Dr. and Mrs. Amin Jazab (Mrs. Jazab is the granddaughter of Hand of the Cause, Mr. Samandari) were enrolled in this excellent school attended mostly by Negroes, and made many friends while there. Their voluntary enrollment at this school opened many doors for direct teaching of the Faith. This picture made by a photographer of the newspaper Nashville Tennessean accompanied a human interest story on the two Persian children who came back to visit their classmates.
[Page 14]
Local Spiritual Assembly of Lawrence, Kansas incorporated November 29, 1965. Standing, left to right:
James Schroeder; Mrs. Mary E. Stuart, treas.; Mrs.
Jean Randazzo, chm.; Darrell Borland; Richard Hicks,
v. chm.; Olin Karch. Seated, left to right: Mrs. Carol
Schroeder; Miss Laquetta McCammon; Mrs. Jan Conley, Sec.
Local Spiritual Assembly of Casper, Wyoming incorporated December 15, 1964. Standing, left to right:
Eldon D. Foreman; Morteza Hosseini; Alvin G. Hale,
Jr.; John D. Sargent, Sr.; David M. Fisher. Seated,
left to right: Marilyn Fisher; Sue Foreman; Virginia
Demery; M.S. Pauline Hale. This is the first Assembly
incorporated in the State.
Local Spiritual Assembly of Verde Valley, Arizona
formed at Riḍván 1965. Seated, left to right: Seaf P.
Gimlin; Mrs. Hulda Corbin, v. chm.; Walter Jones;
Mrs. Louise Calley. Standing, left to right: Mrs. Ardith
Kleiss; Mrs. Bessie Gimlin, treas.; Doug Calley, chm.;
Mrs. Emma Jones, sec.; Mrs. Ann Stadelman, librarian.
Local Spiritual Assembly of Victor J.D., California incorporated November 19, 1965 and the first Assembly to
be incorporated in San Bernardino County, California.
Front, left to right: John Russell, Mrs. Kathryn Herbst,
Mrs. Sylvia Surratt, rec. sec., Vernon Surratt, chm.
Rear, left to right: Mrs. Frances Surratt, William
Surratt, v. chm., Mrs. Doris Russell, cor. sec., William
Russell, treas., Mrs. Margaret Androwsky.
Local Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Toledo, Ohio
incorporated November 9, 1965. Seated, left to right:
Mrs. Lynette Storm, Mrs. Betty Foster, treas.; Mrs.
Robert Diehl, Mrs. Florence Zmeskal, rec. sec., Dr.
Otto Zmeskal, chm. Standing, left to right: Dr. K. H.
Lin, Jerry Lemuel, Dr. W. S. Hatch, Sec.; George Allen,
v. chm.
Upsurge in College Teaching Activities[edit]
It is gratifying to report an upsurge in college teaching activities throughout the United States. A great deal of ingenuity and inspiration has been demonstrated in a number of instances.
One such instance was the unique “free bake sale” devised by the Bahá’í Club of the University of Rochester in New York. On December 5, the Club sponsored a symposium at the university on the topic, “God’s Law: Religion and Science Agree.” Appearing as their guest speaker was Dr. Peter Kahn, a noted Bahá’í lecturer and research physicist working at the University of Michigan in the fields of radio astronomy and space exploration electronics. The Friday morning prior to the symposium, the Bahá’í Club set up the “free bake sale” whereby they offered on a first-come, first-served basis homemade bakery goods free of charge. This event was held in the Student Union from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at a time when the students came for their mail to a postal station in the area. Predominant at the counter was a Bahá’í poster display and a tape recording of Bahá’í songs. Flyers announcing the bakery treat had been distributed earlier, and they read: “Food for Free...Why? Because most UR faculty and students don’t know there is a Bahá’í Club on this campus, or what a Bahá’í is, and they should!” Accordingly, a large number learned about the Bahá’í Faith.
In the mid-west, other unusual events were taking place on the University of Minnesota campus. The Bahá’í Club had set up a literature table across from the lunchroom in the Student Union from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The project met with much success, attracting about twenty-five interested inquirers. A 15-minute taped interview was made for airing on the campus closed-circuit radio station, reaching hundreds of students in their dormitories. After the taping session, the Bahá’í student was invited to speak from “the soapbox” which had been set up for the purpose of proclaiming one’s views on many subjects. He spoke for five minutes on the Bahá’í Faith to a group of one hundred students.
Booth sponsored by the Kansas University Bahá’í Club
at the Student Union Activities Carnival where campus
clubs and groups introduce their organizations to the
students. Several hundred pieces of Bahá’í literature
were distributed here and many visitors asked to be
notified of future meetings.
Bahá’í booth at the Virginia State Fair.
Virginia Invests in Perpetual Proclamation[edit]
In the early Fall over a period of nine days, the friends in Virginia proclaimed the Faith to several hundred thousand, via a booth at the Virginia State Fair in Richmond. Although the administrative body, (LSA of Alexandria), put responsibility for the project in the hands of a volunteer committee of three, every Bahá’í in the state was invited to contribute with advice, materials, labor, money and prayer.
The unusual and outstanding feature of the project is the fact that the booth can be easily taken down, stored and reassembled year after year at city, county and state affairs. The months of planning and labor that went into the project will not need to be repeated, and the total cost of $450 includes a one-time outlay for the booth of $300. In the future, for the cost of a site and literature, plus a small amount of labor, the booth can be used to reach other thousands! It is presently being set up for a three-state inter-area meeting on World Religion Day.
The booth was done in blue, white and gold, with only two posters — one showing the Golden Rules of the different religions, and the other the oneness of the Prophets. An automatic and continuous carousel projection of slides showed a colorful cross-section of the peoples of the Faith, the four National Temples, the 1963 London Jubilee and the gardens and Shrines at the World Center on Mount Carmel. Because rear-view mirror projection was used, the booth was uncluttered. Most of the friends who took turns two at a time manning the booth in six-hour shifts stayed outside the booth, giving viewers freedom to view slides and look over literature without feeling any pressure. Thousands of pieces of literature were displayed in convenient stacks, two or three of the 12 titles at a time. By far the most popular pieces of literature were Life After Death and Prophesy Fulfilled.
Encouraging was the number of young people, especially men of college age, who engaged in animated conversation among themselves about the slides and literature. Almost every passerby took pamphlets, and 36 signed slips requesting speakers, invitations to meetings, etc. Follow-ups were immediately started by letter to the seeker and referral of the name to the proper community. Since every one of the thousands of pieces of literature carried an LSA name and address and two telephone numbers, the Virginia friends really think they’ll never hear the last of this project.
News Briefs[edit]
Dr. David S. Ruhe on December 6 spoke on “The Bahá’í Faith of Enlightenment”, before the Loyola Ecumenical Forum, a program sponsored by the Department of Theology of Loyola University in Chicago. His talk was the last of a series of four talks presenting the viewpoints of several religious bodies on major theological issues and their impact on contemporary life. The question and answer period lasted for an hour after the lecture. Dr. Ruhe was invited to return for another address next summer.
“The Presence of the Holy Ghost Creating a New World Order as Revealed by Bahá’u’lláh” was the subject of the message by Mr. Jack McCants on “Bahá’í Night” at the Jones Tabernacle African Methodist Episcopal Church in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, November 7. The entire program except one anthem was conducted by Bahá’ís from several communities. Dr. Emmer Henri Booker, minister of the Church expressed the appreciation of his congregation for the very stimulating evening during which greetings were read from Bahá’í communities as far away as New York, California and Hawaii.
The Kansas University Student Union at Lawrence, Kansas was the scene, December 4 and 5 of a Central States Teaching Institute sponsored by the local Spiritual Assembly of Lawrence and attended by forty-eight believers from five States. The theme was “Universal Participation—a Key to Expansion.” Mrs. Velma Sherril, Auxiliary Board member being keynoted for the Institute and Mrs. Jan Conley of Lawrence, chairman of the sessions. Many of those attending were recently enrolled Bahá’ís who expressed great enthusiasm and appreciation for the opportunity for intensive study and discussion.
The Thanksgiving Day week-end was a very busy one for the Bahá’ís of Gallup, New Mexico. Since the date of the Day of the Covenant coincided with Thanksgiving evening, a typical Thanksgiving Day dinner was served to more than fifty persons who included the VISTA workers in the area and a number of close non-Bahá’í friends. The dinner was followed by a musical program by the local Bahá’ís and a fireside meeting. On the Friday and Saturday a Rocky Mountain Bahá’í youth conference was held in the Bahá’í center with eighteen in attendance, and on Sunday fifteen boys from the Job Corps Camp at Mexican Springs were brought in for a dinner of Thanksgiving Day “left overs” and a discussion on the Bahá’í Faith. To encourage interest in Human Rights Day the Gallup Assembly sponsored an essay contest for young people thirteen to eighteen years of age on the subject “Working Together for Human Rights.”
The Birthday of Bahá’u’lláh was commemorated in Los Angeles, California with a public meeting at which Dr. Amin Banani showed a colored slide film consisting of pictures of modern day Tehran, and of the Holy Land where He spent the last years of His Life. The pictures, collected over a fifteen-year period brought the Bahá’ís and their guests a vivid understanding of some of the places associated with the life of Bahá’u’lláh and aroused interest in the principles and meaning of the Faith which He brought to the world.
Calendar of Events[edit]
- FEASTS
- February 7—Mulk (Dominion)
- March 2—‘Alá’ (Loftiness)
- INTERCALARY DAYS
- February 26—March 1
- DAYS OF FASTING
- March 2-21
- U.S. NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY MEETINGS
- February 11-13
- March 25-27
- NATIONAL BAHA’I CONVENTION
- April 28-May 1
Baha’i House of Worship[edit]
- Weekdays
- 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Auditorium only)
- Sundays and Holidays
- 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Entire building)
- Sundays
- 3:30 to 4:10 p.m.
- Sunday, February 20
- 4:15 p.m.
BAHÁ’Í NEWS is published for circulation among Bahá’ís only by the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States, as a news organ reporting current activities of the Bahá’í world community.
BAHÁ’Í NEWS is edited by an annually appointed Editorial Committee: Mrs. Sylvia Parmelee, Managing Editor; Mrs. Eunice Braun, International Editor; Miss Charlotte Linfoot, National Spiritual Assembly Representative.
Material must be received by the twentieth of the second month preceding date of issue. Address: Bahá’í News Editorial Office, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois, U.S.A. 60091.
Change of address should be reported directly to National Bahá’í Office, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois, U.S.A.
