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| No. 425 | BAHA’I YEAR 123 | AUGUST, 1966 |
[Page 2]
TO THE BAHA’I YOUTH
IN EVERY LAND:
Universal House of Justice Addresses Bahá’í Youth[edit]
IN COUNTRY after country the achievements of Bahá’í youth are increasingly advancing the work of the Nine Year Plan and arousing the admiration of their fellow-believers. From the very beginning of the Bahá’í Era, youth have played a vital part in the promulgation of God’s Revelation. The Báb Himself was but twenty-five years old when He declared His Mission, while many of the Letters of the Living were even younger. The Master, as a very young man, was called upon to shoulder heavy responsibilities in the service of His Father in ‘Iráq and Turkey, and His brother, the Purest Branch, yielded up his life to God in the Most Great Prison at the age of twenty-two that the servants of God might “be quickened, and all that dwell on earth be united.” Shoghi Effendi was a student at Oxford when called to the throne of his guardianship, and many of the Knights of Bahá’u’lláh, who won imperishable fame during the Ten Year Crusade, were young people. Let it, therefore, never be imagined that youth must await their years of maturity before they can render invaluable services to the Cause of God.
A Time of Decision[edit]
For any person, whether Bahá’í or not, his youthful years are those in which he will make many decisions which will set the course of his life. In these years he is most likely to choose his life’s work, complete his education, begin to earn his own living, marry and start to raise his own family. Most important of all, it is during this period that the mind is most questing and that the spiritual values that will guide the person’s future behavior are adopted. These factors present Bahá’í youth with their greatest opportunities, their greatest challenges, and their greatest tests — opportunities to truly apprehend the Teachings of their Faith and to give them to their contemporaries, challenges to overcome the pressures of the world and to provide leadership for their and succeeding generations, and tests enabling them to exemplify in their lives the high moral standards set forth in the Bahá’í Writings. Indeed the Guardian wrote of the Bahá’í youth that it is they “who can contribute so decisively to the virility, the purity, and the driving force of the life of the Bahá’í community, and upon whom must depend the future orientation of its destiny, and the complete unfoldment of the potentialities with which God has endowed it.”
A Critical Phase of Transition[edit]
Those who now are in their teens and twenties are faced with a special challenge and can seize an opportunity that is unique in human history. During the Ten Year Crusade — the ninth part of that majestic process described so vividly by our beloved Guardian — the Community of the Most Great Name spread with the speed of lightning over the major territories and islands of the globe, increased manifoldly its manpower and resources, saw the beginning of the entry of the peoples by troops into the Cause of God, and completed the structure of the Administrative Order of Bahá’u’lláh. Now, firmly established in the world, the Cause, in the opening years of the tenth part of that same process, is perceptibly emerging from the obscurity that has, for the most part, shrouded it since its inception and is arising to challenge the outworn concepts of a corrupt society and proclaim the solution for the agonizing problems of a disordered humanity. During the lifetime of those who are now young the condition of the world, and the place of the Bahá’í Cause in it, will change immeasurably, for we are entering a highly critical phase in this era of transition.
Three Fields of Service Open to Youth[edit]
Three great fields of service lie open before young Bahá’ís, in which they will simultaneously be remaking the character of human society and preparing themselves for the work they can undertake later in their lives.
First, the foundation of all their other accomplishments, is their study of the teachings, the spiritualization of their lives and the forming of their characters in accordance with the standards of Bahá’u’lláh. As the moral standards of the people around us collapse and decay, whether of the centuries-old civilizations of the East, the more recent cultures of Christendom and Islám, or of the rapidly-changing tribal societies of the world, the Bahá’ís must increasingly stand out as pillars of righteousness and forbearance. The life of a Bahá’í will be characterized by truthfulness and decency; he will walk uprightly among his fellow-men, dependent upon none save God, yet linked by bonds of love and brotherhood with all mankind; he will be entirely detached from the loose standards, the decadent theories, the frenetic experimentation, the desperation of present-day society, will look upon his neighbors with a bright and friendly face and be a beacon light and a haven for all those who would emulate his strength of character and assurance of soul.
The second field of service, which is linked intimately with the first, is teaching the Faith, particularly to their fellow-youth, among whom are some of the most open and seeking minds in the world. Not yet having acquired all the responsibilities of a family or a long-established home and job, youth can the more easily choose where they will live and study or work. In the world at large young people travel hither and thither seeking amusement, education and experiences. Bahá’í youth, bearing the incomparable treasure of the Word of God for this Day, can harness this mobility into service for mankind and can choose their places of residence, their areas of travel and their types of work with the goal in mind of how they can best serve the Faith.
The third field of service is the preparation by youth
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for their later years. It is the obligation of a Bahá’í to
educate his children; likewise it is the duty of the
children to acquire knowledge of the arts and sciences
and to learn a trade or a profession whereby they, in
turn, can earn their living and support their families.
This, for a Bahá’í youth, is in itself a service to God, a
service, moreover, which can be combined with teaching the Faith and often with pioneering. The Bahá’í
community will need men and women of many skills
and qualifications; for, as it grows in size the sphere of
its activities in the life of society will increase and
diversify. Let Bahá’í youth, therefore, consider the best
ways in which they can use and develop their native
abilities for the service of mankind and the Cause of
God, whether this be as farmers, teachers, doctors,
artisans, musicians or any one of the multitude of
livelihoods that are open to them.
The Basis of All Knowledge[edit]
When studying at school or university Bahá’í youth will often find themselves in the unusual and slightly embarrassing position of having a more profound insight into a subject than their instructors. The Teachings of Bahá’u’lláh throw light on so many aspects of human life and knowledge that a Bahá’í must learn, earlier than most, to weigh the information that is given to him rather than to accept it blindly. A Bahá’í has the advantage of the divine Revelation for this Age, which shines like a searchlight on so many problems that baffle modern thinkers; he must therefore develop the ability to learn everything from those around him, showing proper humility before his teachers, but always relating what he hears to the Bahá’í teachings, for they will enable him to sort out the gold from the dross of human error.
Function of Youth Within the Community[edit]
Paralleling the growth of his inner life through prayer, meditation, service and study of the teachings, Bahá’í youth have the opportunity to learn in practice the very functioning of the Order of Bahá’u’lláh. Through taking part in conferences and summer schools as well as Nineteen Day Feasts, and in service on committees, they can develop the wonderful skill of Bahá’í consultation, thus tracing new paths of human corporate action. Consultation is no easy skill to learn, requiring as it does the subjugation of all egotism and unruly passions, the cultivation of frankness and freedom of thought as well as courtesy, openness of mind and wholehearted acquiescence in a majority decision. In this field Bahá’í youth may demonstrate the efficiency, the vigor, the access of unity which arise from true consultation and, by contrast, demonstrate the futility of partisanship, lobbying, debate, secret diplomacy and unilateral action which characterize modern affairs. Youth also take part in the life of the Bahá’í community as a whole and promote a society in which all generations — elderly, middle-aged, youth, children — are fully integrated and make up an organic whole. By refusing to carry over the antagonisms and mistrust between the generations which perplex and bedevil modern society they will again demonstrate the healing and life-giving nature of their religion.
Steps to Consider Now[edit]
The Nine Year Plan has just entered its third year. The youth have already played a vital part in winning its goals. We now call upon them, with great love and highest hopes and the assurance of our fervent prayers, to consider, individually and in consultation, wherever they live and whatever their circumstances, those steps which they should take now to deepen themselves in their knowledge of the divine message, to develop their characters after the pattern of the Master, to acquire those skills, trades and professions in which they can best serve God and man, to intensify their service to the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh and to radiate its message to the seekers among their contemporaries.
June 10, 1966
Hand of the Cause Jenabe T. Samandarí at a teaching conference in Devlali, Maharashtra, India, May 19 and 20, 1966.
Brunei Forms First National Spiritual Assembly[edit]
The first historic convention of Brunei elected the following members to its National Spiritual Assembly (left above): M. K. Fozdar (chairman), Chin Yun Sang (vice-chairman), K. Krishnan (secretary), Robert Cheok (treasurer), Juni, M. U. Patel, Tabob, Marjorie Fozdar and Yu Wai Kang. A children’s program conducted by Mrs. Marjorie Fozdar was presented at one of the sessions (below).
The first national convention of the Bahá’ís of Brunei,
April 30 - May 1, 1966, was honored by the presence of
H. Collis Featherstone, Hand of the Cause, who came
as the representative of the Universal House of Justice.
Also attending were Dr. John Fozdar as representative
of the National Spiritual Assembly of Malaysia and Mr.
YanKee Leong, Auxiliary Board member of South East
Asia.
Congratulatory messages were read with much enthusiasm from the Universal House of Justice as well as from several National Spiritual Assemblies. All aspects of Bahá’í activity and endeavor were consulted upon and plans made for attainment of future goals. All pledged themselves to proclaim the Teachings in their towns and villages and to stand firm at all times in their faith.
Collis Featherstone Inspires Malaysian Convention[edit]
One hundred and twenty Bahá’ís from all over Malaysia and Singapore attended the two-day convention of the Bahá’ís of Malaysia held at the University of Malaya Third Residential College. Hand of the Cause, Collis Featherstone, was present and gave an inspiring analysis of the Riḍván Message. The most outstanding news was the increase in local assemblies. Malaya now has ninety-five assemblies and Sarawak has thirty. The Convention also pledged to attain all goals of the Nine Year Plan before next Riḍván. A most significant achievement is the erection of another pillar of the Universal House of Justice, the National Spiritual Assembly of Brunei.
The members of the newly elected National Assembly are: Dr. C. J. Sundram (chairman), Mr. E. A. Fernandez (vice-chairman), Mr. S. Vasudevan (secretary), Mr. I. Chinniah (treasurer), Mr. Appu Raman, Mr. K. Rajah, Mr. S. Nagaratnam, Mrs. George Lee and Dr. John Fozdar.
Bahá’ís of Rangoon, Burma assembled on occasion of meeting with Hand of Cause Collis Featherstone who took the photo. 20th May, 1966.
African King Hears Proclamation of the Baha’i Faith[edit]
IT WAS one of those glorious autumn days in the Southern Hemisphere — Easter Sunday in Swaziland, South Africa. Lobamba, the heart of Swaziland, was pulsating with life. From north, south, east and west they came. Brightly robed figures coming in groups of two or three, or marching single file in one long line, following one of the multitudinous paths that criss-cross a large part of the African Continent. The predominant color of the costumes was blue — every conceivable shade — with an occasional sprinkling of greens. Overlaid in white on the back of each robe was the sign of the cross. In the hand of each marcher was a wand or branch of a tree with a cross stick at the top, again symbolical of the cross of Jesus. These were the Zionists, the largest religious group in Southern Africa.
One group stood out among the rest, trailing along some one hundred strong, dressed in brilliant crimson robes. They were truly a beautiful sight. They, too, carried the cross — their symbol of allegiance to Christ. All were singing. Only in Africa could one see such a sight and hear the resonant singing of the worshippers— sometimes chanting, “Ameenie,” “Ameenie” (Amen), or bursting forth with hymns in a harmony of voices.
King Is Host to 2,000[edit]
They were all on their way to the King’s Kraal, and this day, he, himself, would be in attendance. He would be their host.
At the Kraal there were hundreds milling around, finding places to sit in the space cleared among the stately eucalyptus trees which resembled an exalted out-door cathedral. The benches and chairs were not sufficient for the great crowd so most of the people sat on the ground. There was a hum of excitement and everyone was happy as greetings were exchanged and visitors welcomed.
The joint meeting of all the Swazis at Lobamba at Easter time, is an annual event initiated by King Sobhuza II for the unification of all religious groups in the country. The meeting is attended, not only by religious groups from all parts of Swaziland, but also by people outside the country.
When the meeting started there were some two thousand souls present. Sitting relaxed on a chair at the base of a magnificent gum tree was the King, Sobhuza II, dressed in the gay, multi-colored national costume of the Swazis. A beaded love-letter necklace encircled his throat and a single red feather, symbol of royalty, was in his hair. He was a striking figure of authority, yet at complete “oneness” with his people.
The program was long, lasting from about noon until early evening. The speakers, now serious, now humourous, had the full attention of the King and the audience, for the purpose of the meeting was to create unity among the people of Swaziland. There are many religious sects which divide this little country, a condition which is deplored by the King as well as his people. He wishes above all else to see his people united in one common religion, one common cause, that will lead them through this present era of transition from a Protectorate of Britain to an Independent State, without violence or bloodshed. He is a wise and just King.
Presentation of Bahá’í Faith[edit]
As Mr. William Masehla of Johannesburg, secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of South and West Africa, was introduced as the Bahá’í speaker, a murmur went through the crowd. This was the first time a Bahá’í was on the program among the few who were chosen to speak on this occasion. Obviously many were aware of the Bahá’í Faith and an air of expectancy enveloped the waiting souls as he rose to speak with a smile of encompassing love, his face a shining light. Doubtless the Hosts on High were surrounding him with their divine inspiration, “each bearing aloft a chalice of pure light.”
He spoke simply and with conviction, telling them something of the Message and life of the Prisoner of Acca — Bahá’u’lláh, the Glory of God. He spoke often of the central theme of the Bahá’í Faith — unity — because this was the day dedicated to unity and the coming together of all denominations and creeds. The Moslems were there, the Christians and those believing in ancient cults, all needing a common heart.
The Bahá’í choir of five, Seraphina Twala, Patrick Masuku, Mavis Dlamini, Christopher Kuhlase and Ruth Dlamini, added their beautiful, harmonious voices in praise of all the Messengers of God, past and present. Proclaiming that all had come to bring guidance, knowledge and the love of God for his creatures, throughout the ages, and that Bahá’u’lláh, the latest Messenger of God had come to unite all religions by the fulfillment of prophecy and giving the teachings that could and would create unity and establish the peace of the world.
We do not know how far-reaching this proclamation of the beloved Faith of Bahá’u’lláh will be. We know only, that the name of the Blessed Perfection, Bahá’u’lláh, the Lord of the Age, the Prince of Peace, the One promised by all the Messengers and Prophets of the past, Whose Message will one day unite the nations and people of the world, has been mentioned and proclaimed to at least two thousand souls. May God enlighten the hearts and cause His Word to sink deep into the minds of the people and aid in bringing about a true concept of the fundamental “oneness,” not only of the people of Swaziland, but the entire human family.
“We pray God — exalted be His glory — and cherish the hope that He may graciously assist the Manifestations of affluence and power and the day springs of sovereignty and glory, the kings of the earth — may God aid them through His strengthening grace — to establish the
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Lesser Peace. This, indeed, is the greatest
means for ensuring the tranquility of nations.
It is incumbent upon the Sovereigns of the
World — may God assist them — unitedly to
hold fast unto this Peace, which is the chief
instrument for the protection of all mankind ....... “Any king who will arise to carry out
this task, he, verily, will in the sight of God,
become the cynosure of all kings. Happy is
he, and great is his blessedness.”
[This proclamation could not have been possible, except through the untiring effort and persistence of Princess Gcinaphi, one of the daughters of the King.]
Enoch Olinga Inspires West Central Africa Convention[edit]
Enoch Olinga, Hand of the Cause in Africa, was present at the “most successful convention so far in West Central Africa” which took place in Mamfe, West Cameroon April 28-May 1. Mr. Olinga stressed the need for deepening believers in the knowledge of the Faith to insure the solid foundation of the Cause in all communities, and the steady expansion in new districts. In convention sessions and in informal meetings, he urged that each Bahá’í pray regularly for all of the sacred institutions of the Cause from the Universal House of Justice to the local spiritual assemblies, and for the members of these institutions, that they might be enabled to carry forward the development of the Faith throughout the world.
The new national assembly elected is as follows: Mrs. Lillie Rosenberg (chairman), Moses Akombi (vice-chairman), Mrs. Janet Mughrabi (secretary), Sherman Rosenberg (treasurer), Jawad Mughrabi (assistant treasurer — for Cameroon), Sampson Forchak, Oscar Njang, Stephen Tabe and Solomon Tanyi.
Memorial Service for Miss Jessie Revell Held in Wilmette[edit]
A program of readings from the Bahá’í Sacred Writings was held Wednesday, June 15 in the auditorium of the Wilmette House of Worship. Selections read were from the words of Bahá’u’lláh with closing prayer chanted in Arabic.
The Program distributed to those who attended included a statement describing the life of service of this devoted believer and reading in part:
“Jessie Revell’s whole life was the Bahá’í Faith, and her one desire was to serve the Cause. As secretary of the Spiritual Assembly of Philadelphia for many years, she had opportunities to teach and to fulfill her constant wish to serve. Week after week, year after year, the Revell home in Philadelphia was a center for Bahá’í teaching, Feasts, Anniversaries and special meetings, dating even from before its great blessing of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s personal visit in 1912. When the Tablets of the Divine Plan were first presented to the Bahá’ís of the United States and Canada at their Convention held in New York City in April 1919, Jessie Revell was privileged to unveil one of the Tablets revealed by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá for the believers in the United States and Canada. In 1924, on a pilgrimage to Haifa, she met the beloved Guardian for the first time. In 1950, when she and her sister Ethel were studying Spanish preparatory to pioneering to South America, both were called to Haifa by the beloved Guardian to serve at the World Center of the Faith. They arrived in January 1951 for the greatest chapter of their lives of service.
“Jessie was Treasurer of the appointed Bahá’í International Council in 1952 and later, when the Council was elected in 1961 she was elected Treasurer.
“A unique privilege given to Jessie was to accompany ‘Amatu’l-Bahá Rúḥíyyih Khánum on her 1961 trip to dedicate the Mother Temple of Australia at Sydney, visiting Burma, Malaya, Thailand and Vietnam en route. When in New Zealand Rúḥíyyih Khánum experienced a brief illness, Jessie valiantly carried out the heavy program that had been arranged for that arduous week’s stay; she spoke in Auckland, Hamilton and Wellington, met and consulted with the friends from many areas, and with the National Assembly, attended a reception given by the mayor of Wellington.
“After Jessie’s passing, Ethel Revell wrote: ‘Jessie was enfolded all during her illness by the loving care and attention of the members of the Universal House of Justice and the Hands in the Holy Land, as well as all the friends. Above all, they were constantly praying for her.’ ”
CORRECTION[edit]
Because of errors in transmission the cablegram announcing the passing of Miss Jessie Revell is reprinted:
“With profound grief announce passing Jessie Revell. Her tireless steadfast devotion Faith since before Master’s visit American Continent earned love trust admiration Shoghi Effendi crowned by appointment International Bahá’í Council distinguished by service Treasurer both appointed elected Councils. Urge National Assemblies hold memorial gatherings tribute unforgettable exemplary services Faith, (signed) Universal House of Justice.”
Kampala Convention Announces House of Justice Approval for Institute Design[edit]
One hundred thirty-two delegates and visitors assembled in Kampala, Uganda, for the eleventh convention of the Bahá’ís of Uganda and Central Africa. Regretfully noting the absence of Hand of the Cause, Musa Banani, confined to his home by ill health, they listened lovingly to a message from him read in the many languages required for this convention, and to a greeting from the Universal House of Justice. The following morning Max Kenyerizi read the combined message from all African Hands of the Cause, and Mrs. Isobel Sabri read and explained the Riḍván Message from the Universal House of Justice. Very careful study was made of this message, with the delegates conferring in groups according to their own vernacular, the translations already having been prepared in the African tribal languages of Ateso, Luganda, Swahili and Lwo. Another session was opened with a message from Enoch Olinga, Hand of the Cause attending a West African convention, read by Oloro Epyeru, who conveyed information on the difficulties which prevented fifty Eastern Congo delegates from attending the convention. All of the three above-named speakers are members of the Auxiliary Board.
One of the highlights of the convention was the announcement that land had been acquired for the Teacher Training Institutes at Guly and Kikaya and the design approved by the Universal House of Justice. The architect, Patrick Robarts, is now preparing final drawings for the town council and the contractors. The treasurer reported that financing is also available for construction of the Institutes.
The first local assemblies have been formed in Congo, Brazzaville, in Gabon and in Western Congo, with Rwanda soon to be opened. Goals for next year, cabled to the Universal House of Justice are 67,000 Bahá’ís in
The Uganda and Central Africa convention (shown in
session above at Kampala) cast 96 perfect ballots for
their new National Assembly. Reports at this convention are given in seven languages. The photo below
shows the delegates and visitors assembled in front of
the Bahá’í Temple at Kampala. Universal House of
Justice cabled appreciation of pioneers who arose for
Rwanda and Gabon.
Uganda, 18,000 in Burundi with 1,000 local assemblies
in Uganda and seventy-five in Burundi.
The whole spirit was that of a happy well-organized convention, reflecting the growth and maturity of this large, African community. Even the ninety-six ballots were all valid and in perfect order, with the following members elected to the National Assembly: Kolonerio Oule (chairman), Sospateri Isimai (secretary), Dempsey Morgan (vice-chairman), Hassan Sabri (treasurer), Farshid Banani, Tito Wanantsusi, Yokolamu Okello, Moses Senoga and Albert Ochamodek.
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Photo at left shows newly elected National Spiritual Assembly of Colombia, seated (left to right): Mrs. Gloria de Fritzsche, Mrs. Ines de Montenegro (recording secretary), Mrs. Ellen Sims, Miss Leonor Porras (chairman);
standing: Mr. Luis Montenegro (secretary), Mr. Stewart Waddell, Miss Teresa Alarcón, Mr. Habib Rezvani
and Mr. Hamilton Bretón. Delegates to the sixth annual Colombian convention are shown in the photo at right.
Five Indian Delegates Attend Colombian Convention[edit]
The Sixth Annual National Convention of the Bahá’ís of Colombia was held on April 23 and 24, preceded by a reception for the delegates on the evening of April 22, given by the community of Bucaramanga. This beautiful, mountain-surrounded city was chosen for this year’s convention to enable the Indian delegates to be present and to be comfortable in a pleasant climate similar to their own area.
Among the guests were Auxiliary Board member, Mrs. Gayle Woolson, acting as representative for the South American Hand of the Cause, Jalál Kházeh, and five Motilon Indian delegates attending a convention for the first time after having walked two days and spent another number of hours in a bus to be able to come. The attendance was excellent with the friends making many sacrifices and traveling in uncomfortable buses over very bad roads. At all times there was an awareness of a loving spiritual atmosphere and of an increased maturity in the consultation.
Among the triumphs reported this year was the opening of the two virgin goals, the islands of San Andres and Providencia, by Charles and Helen Hornby. These islands are many hundreds of miles from the mainland of Colombia and there are now sixty-four new believers in Providencia and forty-two new believers in San Andres Island, the latter having formed its first Local Spiritual Assembly this Riḍván, after great sacrifices. The announcement was made that the Indian Institute building, Villa Rahmat, a very sturdy structure, has been constructed.
Fifth Swedish annual convention held in Stockholm.
Dutch National Community Active on Many Levels[edit]
National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the
Netherlands, elected April 1966 (left to right): Mr. Edward Bode, Mr. Lout van Veendendaal (vice-chairman), Mrs. Masje van der Garde, Mr. Jan Sijsling,
Mr. Bob van Lith (chairman), Mr. Mas’ud Mazgani.
Mr. Rein Gramsma (treasurer), Mrs. Lottie Tobias
(secretary) and Mr. Kamran Alai.
Photo above shows Bahá’í book exhibition at the NOVIB-Congress in
Arnhem, Holland. At left are Belgian
and Dutch youth meeting together at
Liège, Belgium on April 9, 10, and 11
for the first time. Below appear participants of the Dutch national community in a special weekend institute.
Bahá’í Schools Highlight Consultation at Convention of South West Pacific Ocean[edit]
Annual convention of the South West Pacific Ocean Bahá’ís at Honiara, Solomon Islands. The newly elected
National Spiritual Assembly (right above) is as follows: Mr. Hamuel Hoahania, Mrs. Ida Simpson, Mr. Frank
Simpson, Gertrude Blum (secretary), Mr. Johnson Taulimae and standing, Mr. Johnson Oli Sukulu, Mr. Alvin J.
Blum, (chairman-treasurer) and Mr. Edmond Maeligwata. Mr. William Laing (vice chairman) absent.
The third annual convention of the Bahá’ís of South
West Pacific Ocean, meeting at Honiara, Solomon
Islands, consulted at length on their teaching challenges in the Nine Year Plan. The fund, the problem of
translations and the meaning of universal participation
were fully discussed. Of special interest was the
progress being made in the Bahá’í schools. Mrs.
Dobbins, teacher at the Nur school in the New Hebrides
stated that seventy-five percent of the Bahá’ís have
come from contact with the school there. Mrs. Dobbins,
who is over seventy years of age and has been ill, is
much in need of assistance with the work. There are
fifty-four children, age six to sixteen from many
religious backgrounds, with many more who wish to
enroll.
The school at Tawaimare has been increased by five buildings and an assembly hall, the work being done through the efforts of parents and students directed by the teacher. The High Commissioner, the District Office, and the Department Head of Native Affairs visited the school and were deeply impressed with this fact. The arrival of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Simpson to teach at the Bahá’í school at Malaita has also been a great blessing.
Fifth national convention of the Bahá’ís of Switzerland.
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The fifth National Spiritual Assembly of Switzerland in
the garden of the Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds in Bern. Seated, left
to right: Miss Claude Hunziker, Mrs. Olga Schaer, Mrs.
Anna Kunz, Mrs. Etty Graeffe; standing: Daniel Schaubachre (secretary), Fritz Semble (chairman), Feizollah
Namdar (vice chairman), Otto Jung (recording secretary) and Fritz Schaer (treasurer).
Bahá’í Youth Institute organized by the youth of Palermo, Italy on April 9-10, 1966. Auxiliary Board member, James Holmlund, is at the right.
International News Briefs[edit]
The Korean BAHÁ’Í NEWS (The Wolbo) reports certain material successes which would appear to insure the early establishment of the first permanent Teacher Training Institute there. The Korean National Assembly has been the recipient of a generous donation, made by one Iranian village community, and dispensed through the Universal House of Justice, to assist in erecting school buildings for these institutes in specified areas. In addition to this, several Korean believers have made a generous donation of land for the schools.
The Bahá’ís of Canada are again planning to have a booth at the Canadian National Exhibition in Toronto, August 19 to September 5 (except Sundays). It is held in the General Exhibits building. This has been found in past years to be an excellent opportunity for giving information on the Faith to the public.
Recently incorporated National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Bolivia, elected during Riḍván, 1966, as follows: Ziaolláh Vojdaní (vice-chairman), Mrs. Angélica de Costas (recording secretary), Miss Míriam Márquez and Ehsanolláh Rezvaní (treasurer). Standing: Estanislao Alvarez (chairman), Andrés Jachakollo, Nazario Tirado Cuenca (national secretary) Miguel Díez and Sabino Ortega.
Sixth annual convention of Honduras, April 30 — May
1, in San Pedro Sula, attended by Hand of the Cause,
Ugo Giachery (not present in this photo), who gave an
extensive radio interview. A new teaching plan was
adopted for opening the remaining five departamentos of the country and doubling the present number of
local assemblies (twenty-seven). Members of the new
National Assembly elected are: Wanita George (chairman), Olinea Andrade (vice chairman), Luis Bouche
(secretary), Lidia de Varela (recording secretary),
Carlos Vasquez (treasurer), José Lopéz, Mazie Argueta, Grace Dean and Rene Sanchez.
From Switzerland comes news of the publication of the text of “Bahá’í: Way of Life for Millions” from Ebony magazine in the Congo Presse, a small weekly newspaper in Brazzaville, Congo. Brazzaville is a consolidation goal of Switzerland.
Guaymi Indians Capture Hearts of Panamanian Pioneer Teachers[edit]
The Guaymi Indians in Chiriqui Province are close to the hearts of all Bahá’ís in the Republic of Panama.
Shortly after the sixth annual convention, May 1-2, held at Villa Virginia, Bahá’í school (delegates in upper right
photo), two American pioneers began their first trips in the mountains during the rainy season. Kenneth Francisco and Arthur Krummell travelled the difficult, muddy trails accompanied by the outstanding, blind Guaymi
teacher, Alberto Perez, contacting most of the Bahá’í communities. Photo at left shows Guaymi Indian Bahá’ís
of Boca de Remedios celebrating the Feast of Naw-Rúz at which they served a simple refreshment of corn
chicha. Naw-Rúz is the only New Year recognized by these devoted Indian believers.
National Spiritual Assembly of Jamaica elected during
Riḍván, 1966. Left to right, standing: Mervyn Mitchell
(secretary) C. B. Rose, R. FitzHenley (vice-chairman),
Neri Brown, Leopold Seymour; sitting: Emily Taylor,
Merle Campbell (recording secretary), Dr. Doris
Buchanan (chairman) and A. M. Gallier (treasurer).
Hand of Cause Ugo Giachery at a recent meeting with
Bahá’í friends at the Panama Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds. During
the meeting the Tablet of Aḥmad was intoned against a
background of organ music composed by Charles J.
Peterson of the Canal Zone.
International News Briefs[edit]
For the past eight months the Bahá’í Community of St. Thomas, Virgin Islands has carried on a regular children’s Bahá’í school each Sunday morning. On March 26-27 of this year a weekend conference was held with Bahá’í children from St. Thomas and St. Croix in the Virgin Islands and from San Juan, Puerto Rico attending. The classes and discussion periods were short and varied in order not to tire the children, ages four to twelve, attending the conference. The lively response and deep interest of the children in every part of the conference was a joy to the four teachers who arranged and supervised the week-end school. All the children, even the youngest, had interesting comments to make, excellent answers to questions and good suggestions to offer during the discussion periods.
The third annual convention of the Bahá’í of West Africa, held in Monrovia, Liberia, received good publicity in the Liberian Star and the Daily Listener. The basic teachings of the faith were accurately summarized and news of the recent incorporation of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of West Africa by an act of the legislature of Liberia was also noted.
Connecticut Bahá’í Week April 22-29, 1966[edit]
Bahá’í Week in Connecticut was a substantial success in accomplishing the major purposes which were its aim, namely: 1) to bring the Faith to the attention of citizens of the State and 2) to achieve universal participation of the Bahá’ís of Connecticut in doing this.
The idea started at the State Convention last November, a pilot committee set up with representatives from each assembly in the state held meetings frequently during the ensuing months and a nucleus of nine remained to see the project carried out to final completion.
Study of the Fresno Bulletin convinced the committee that this was a “must” and the offer of a “camper” to be converted into a bookmobile further guaranteed that the proclamation would be more than just seven local public meetings. The official statement from Governor Dempsey furnished a welcome keynote for the Bulletin. It read:
“Encouraging to all men of good will is the evidence of an increasing spirit of cooperation among members of different religious, racial, national and economic groups.
“The Bahá’í Communities in Connecticut have long worked diligently to further this spirit.
“As a part of a statewide effort to proclaim the principle of the Oneness of Mankind, the Bahá’í Communities are sponsoring a series of public meetings in Connecticut cities during the period of April 22 through 29, 1966.
“In recognition of this worthy work, this period has been designated as BAHÁ’Í WEEK in Connecticut, and I am pleased to call this endeavor to the attention of the people of this State.”
Public meetings were held in Greenwich, Stamford, Norwalk and New Haven along Long Island Sound, in the center of the State at Meriden and the Capital, Hartford, and out to the northeast in Willimantic where the Bahá’í group has three adults and one youth. Audiences numbered from 75 to 200 and it was estimated that about one quarter of those attending were inquirers or “not yet” Bahá’ís. There was also a large invisible audience for the live broadcast of the Stamford meeting and the tape recording played on a local Greenwich radio station. Despite some rain every gathering was joyful and showed a true reflection of the Bahá’í spirit of happiness in the hearts.
The Bookmobile attracted large numbers of inquirers as it cruised from one end of the State to the other during the week just before the meetings as well as the week of the meetings. Stationed at prominent spots where shoppers could see it and stop to examine the literature on display it attracted the interested attention of many hundreds with thousands of pamphlets being distributed. About 9,000 Souvenir Bulletins were circulated. At a later evaluation meeting all committee members reported with enthusiasm of how doors to publicity media once shut have now opened and of how people from radio, television and the press have asked for news of this Bahá’í activity, sent photographers for the story of the Bookmobile and offered free time for interview of speakers and local Bahá’ís. One radio interviewer told the air audience that the talk had inspired him to wish to come to the meeting — that evening — and indeed, he came.
A Bahá’í chorus trained and conducted by Carol Kelsey Rutstein sang at most of the meetings adding greatly to the spirit of joy pervading the whole program. One visitor said when she looked on that “sea of fresh young faces of different races” she felt she would have to know more about this Faith which drew them there. The members of the chorus came, mostly, from outside the state, as did some of the financial assistance and some of the audience — thus demonstrating that state lines need not form immovable barriers to Bahá’í cooperation!
A large television station (WHNB) gave free program time to announcing activities of the week and permitted a Bahá’í to give the message briefly.
The National Teaching Committee gave encouragement to this project as a unique experiment adapted to a state quite different in size and customs from California and one more typical of many smaller states, particularly those in the East. The experience gained has been recorded in detail and thoroughly analyzed. It will find application as the newly created National Goals Committee develops plans for proclaiming the Faith through the State Goals Committees. Bahá’í Week in Connecticut can truly be considered as but one of many preludes to the major proclamation to be undertaken in the 1967 Commemoration of the Messages to the Kings.
Eleven Mayors and One Governor Proclaim Race Unity Day in U.S.![edit]
Increasing Scope and Effectivity of Programs Commendable[edit]
A brief review of reports of U.S. Race Unity Day observances as reported in BAHÁ’Í NEWS for the past several years indicates that the American Bahá’í community is arising to the vital and imperative challenge of the role it must play in establishing the oneness of mankind in America. The programs this year were sparked by a greater display of courage, initiative, enthusiasm and ingenuity, coupled with wider publicity from press, radio, television, and through prayers read at services in many churches throughout the land.
Increased Official Recognition Significant[edit]
The Seattle, Washington community obtained a Proclamation for the State from Governor Daniel J. Evans, and used the occasion to sponsor an inter-community proclamation effort in cooperation with Bahá’ís in the greater Seattle area. To reach Negro and Oriental residents of the community, 7,500 copies of the Ebony reprint were distributed as an enclosure in a local Negro newspaper. A panel discussion, “Humanity United,” will be followed up with year-round posting of billboards throughout the Seattle area, and a continuing concentrated publicity program. Besides obtaining Mayor A. V. Sorenson’s Proclamation, Omaha, Nebraska Bahá’ís held a successful picnic. Of sixty-eight attending, only thirteen were Bahá’ís. Letters with the prayer for unity were sent to ninety local and nearby clergy. Another proclamation issued by Mayor Willard T. Jordan of Costa Mesa, California which was well-publicized, underscored a picnic breakfast at the Orange County Fairgrounds.
Mr. and Mrs. James Yates, Rochester, New York, and
children. Mr. Yates was the speaker at the Hornell,
New York observance of Race Unity Day.
Race Unity Week was proclaimed by the Mayor of
Hornell, New York, Harold B. Crandall. This fact was
ignored in the otherwise splendid publicity obtained in
the local paper. Ten non-Bahá’ís were among the sixty
who attended a public talk by Mr. James Yates of
Rochester, New York, who not only talked lovingly of
the “Oneness of Humanity,” but beautifully demonstrated it by bringing his lovely family. Portsmouth, New Hampshire obtained paid and free publicity regarding the Proclamation issued by Mayor Timothy J.
Picnic demonstrates unity of mankind at Omaha, Nebraska.
[Page 15]
First Bahá’í proclamation obtained in Aurora, Colorado, is also first one signed by Mayor Norma Walker,
shown holding the proclamation. Members of the Assembly on hand for the signing are from left: I. Robert
Johnston, vice-chairman, Janet Dodge, secretary, and
Eldon Dennis, chairman.
Connors. Two “firsts” occurred in Aurora, Colorado: It
was the first occasion on which a mayor there made a
proclamation for the Bahá’ís, and the first proclamation signed by Mayor Norma Walker. A well-integrated
audience representing Chinese, Indian, American
Indian, Negro and Caucasian, heard a panel discussion,
which was followed by open discussion and a potluck
dinner. A professionally-arranged Race Unity Day
display was placed in a window on a main thoroughfare
by Consolidated Display Company in Maywood, Illinois.
The exhibit will be featured for a month ... Mayor
Edgar M. Elbert’s Proclamation of Race Unity Day
was one of many he has issued for the Bahá’ís ...
Lawrence, Kansas also reported obtaining a proclamation, but all publicity regarding it and the Race Unity
Day panel discussion was ignored. Of five posters
prominently displayed in the town, two disappeared by
Sunday. Of the twenty who attended the meeting, five
were pre-Bahá’ís and were brought by the Bahá’ís.
Each church in Lawrence received the letter with the
prayer, and a response was received from the Catholic
church stating the prayer would be read at every mass,
and praising the Bahá’í community for its work in
human rights.
Signing of the Greensboro, North Carolina proclamation was covered by a local television station and included on their regular news report. Twenty-three non-Bahá’ís were among the fifty-four who enjoyed a picnic, with swimming, horse-shoes, ball, and a brief talk on the “Unity of Man and Religion.”
The Bahá’í Communities of Madison and Monona Village, Wisconsin, went all out for Race Unity Day. A picture of Mayor Otto Feske signing the Proclamation, witnessed by three Bahá’ís, was shown on a local television station. Excellent newspaper, radio and television coverage was obtained for announcements and posters. Invitations went along with the letter and prayer to 125 churches. Included on the outstanding program at the University YMCA was the Mt. Zion Baptist Church Choir (Negro) and Reverend Joe Dawson, pastor, who spoke very highly of the love and unity manifest in the Bahá’í Faith. In addition, there was a Bahá’í speaker, and a vocal soloist rendered Bahá’í songs, accompanied by a violin quartet. The Bahá’í presentation was followed by slides and stories of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. After refreshments, guests viewed a display of international dolls and literature, then participated in a “song-fest” and many joined in the Jewish “Hora” dance. The wonderful cooperation of communities, plus a well-planned program generated a marvelous spirit and a highly successful evening ... A multitude of successes was joyously announced by the Huntsville, Alabama Bahá’í community. A bi-racial committee of three met with the Mayor for the signing of the Proclamation, which was mentioned on two local radio newscasts and in newspaper publicity. Public service announcements of the planned picnic were given and a three-minute taped interview of a local Bahá’í was broadcast two days. The prayer for unity was published as a paid ad. The forty-two happy picnickers were subject to many looks of surprise from passers-by. Mansfield, Ohio also reported success with Mayor Paul Bush. They sponsored a panel on the “Oneness of Mankind.”
This large crowd of picnickers received much attention from passers-by in Huntsville, Alabama.
Striking Example of Originality[edit]
Hand of the Cause, Louis G. Gregory, was eulogized by W. A. Robinson, long-time (non-Bahá’í) friend of Mr. Gregory. Mr. Robinson, former principal of Carver High School in Phoenix, Arizona, was instrumental in promoting an orderly integration of the Union High School System. Numbered among his former pupils are Auxiliary Board member William Maxwell, and Dr. Martin Luther King. Mr. Robinson reached his 76th birthday on June 12, and former pupils and business associates (including Arizona Governor Samuel P. Goddard and Junius Bowman, Executive Director of the Phoenix Urban League) were asked to send birthday greetings. These were placed in a handsomely-bound leather book and presented to Mr. Robinson along with a huge birthday cake. He was deeply touched by this gesture, as were the sixty-five guests. One third of those attending were not Bahá’ís, and there was a wide representation of minority groups.
Allen Morrison, New York City Bureau Chief for Johnson Publications, receives the first Race Unity Day
Award from William Dunlap, right, chairman of the
New York City Assembly. At left is speaker Archibald
Tichenor, of Dumont, New Jersey.
Unusual Presentation[edit]
The Bahá’ís of New York City used the occasion to present its first Race Unity Day award to Allen Morrison, New York City Bureau Chief for Johnson Publishing Company (Ebony, Jet, Tan, Hue) for his outstanding efforts in promoting racial harmony and human relations. The Spanish Teaching Committee served as ushers for the crowd of 175 people, about a third of which were non-Bahá’ís. Good publicity was obtained in newspapers, radio and television.
Church Cooperation in Yakima, Washington[edit]
Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church cooperated with the Yakima Bahá’ís in presenting a Bahá’í program at the church. Wesley Baker, vice-chairman of the Everett Assembly, was the speaker. His excellent presentation included taped excerpts from the Bahá’í Writings, and was interspersed with several beautifully rendered vocal solos. The program was well-received by the pastor, who said he hoped we would have an even more successful “June 12th” next year. There was a feeling that the mutual respect and appreciation engendered would increase with future efforts.
Wesley Baker, vice-chairman of the Everett, Washington Assembly, shown at left above, was the speaker for
the Yakima Race Unity Day program, held at the Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church.
Outstanding Public Meetings Well-Attended[edit]
The inspiring accounts of many fine public meetings and picnics held throughout the country are too numerous to treat individually. However, it is truly astonishing to note the extent of the publicity obtained in all media and the number of letters with the prayer sent to churches. It is interesting to note that several Catholic churches were the only ones reported to have responded to the letters. Even so, we feel sure that the prayer was read in many different churches throughout the country on Race Unity Day, and that the voice of the Bahá’ís in proclaiming the necessity for the recognition and establishment of the oneness of mankind was heard throughout the land. Particular recognition must also be given for the increased participation of minority groups and the use of good music in the programs.
In addition to those mentioned above, the following communities deserve special citation for the excellence of their efforts: Arizona: Scottsdale, in cooperation with Glendale, North Maricopa County and Tempe. California: Bakersfield, Healdsburg, in cooperation with Santa Rosa and Sonoma County Bahá’ís; Lakewood. Florida: Hollywood. Illinois: Chicago, Edwardsville, Libertyville, Peoria, Springfield. Indiana: Fort Wayne. Iowa: Waterloo, in cooperation with Cedar Falls. Louisiana: Alexandria (this brand-new assembly was exhilarated by the success of its first Race Unity Day “frolic” which featured food, slides, a talk and an art exhibit. This “young” community sent letters to many neighboring communities and to several hundred local clergymen.) Michigan: Ann Arbor, Flint. Minnesota: Minneapolis. New York: Syracuse. Ohio: Euclid, Medina. Pennsylvania: Philadelphia (also instrumental in setting up a window display at Camden, New Jersey, at the request of the Union Federal Savings and Loan Association). Washington: Spokane — whose effort was directed at extension teaching in nearby Millwood, their goal area. West Virginia: Charleston. Texas: El Paso, whose efforts were rewarded by a published newspaper interview of an inter-racial team. (The
[Page 17]
religious, editor was so impressed he is reading
‘Renewal of Civilization’) and Fort Worth.
There were no doubt many other extremely worthwhile programs put on by communities which were not reported to BAHÁ’Í NEWS. We sincerely hope that the follow-up on these programs will continue throughout the year, and that an emphasis will be put on continuing the trend towards more integrated participating groups. To the American Bahá’í Community, we’d like to say “Well done, people of Bahá!”
Group attending the panel presentation arranged by the
Lakewood, California Bahá’ís. Nine pre-Bahá’ís were
in attendance.
Bahá’í Poet Wins World Festival of Negro Arts Award[edit]
Negro Digest, June 1966, carries an article entitled “Robert Hayden: Poet Laureate” by Dr. Rosey E. Pool, which tells the story of Mr. Hayden’s winning the award for anglophone poetry at the First World Festival of Negro Arts for his book of poetry, A Ballad of Remembrance, published by Paul Breman, London. The award was announced by the jury chairman, Langston Hughes at the Festival held in Dakar, Senegal, Africa. The article mentions the poet’s membership in the Bahá’í Faith. It states: “Bahá’í is belief in the unity of all religions, of all prophets.... Bahá’ís believe in the unity of all mankind, the universality of all of God’s creation.”
Bahá’ís Dedicate Tree in International Gardens[edit]
Salt Lake City, Utah, Commissioner Louis Holley
plants tree in International Peace Garden, Japanese
Section, Salt Lake City on May 29, 1966. Two Japanese
cherry trees, one given by the Bahá’ís of Salt Lake City
and Salt Lake County, the other by Alice Kasai, Bahá’í,
are in memory of her late husband Henry Kasai, instrumental in establishing the Japanese section of the
gardens. Shown with Alice Kasai is Mrs. T. E. Gaddis,
chairman of the Peace Gardens. Mr. Kasai received
honors locally as well as from the Government of Japan
for his outstanding work in citizenship and international relations.
Bahá’í Teachings on Race Publicized[edit]
At the request of the local Urban League, the local assembly of Urbana, Illinois, prepared a statement on the attitude of the Bahá’í Faith towards race relations which was published in the local bulletin, The Champaign County Urban League Reporter. The statement, strong and direct, pleased the editors and showed clearly that the Bahá’ís have more than a sentimental feeling of “brotherly love”. In part it read:
“When one becomes a Bahá’í, therefore, his first duty is to eliminate from his heart all lurking prejudices until, in his association with his fellow-men, he can forget color and other man-made barriers entirely. Indeed, one man in Mississippi likes to say, ‘I’m neither Negro nor white. I’m a Bahá’í.’
“This universal, this transcending love which the followers of the Bahá’í Faith feel for their fellow-men is neither mysterious nor can it be said to have been artificially stimulated. It is both spontaneous and genuine. They whose hearts are warmed by the energizing influence of God’s creative love cherish His creatures for His sake and recognize in every human face a sign of His reflected glory.”
Youth conference in Fort Wayne, Indiana May 29-31
attended by fifty-five youth from six states generated
a spirit of joy and renewed dedication and led to at
least one declaration. Leaders included: Bettijane
Walker, Fred Sudhop, Charyl and Keith Thorpe, Janet
Williams, and Don Streets. Discussion covered the
topics: The Covenant, The Role of You in the New
World Order, and Practical Application of the Spiritual
Life.
[Page 18]
Some of the Bahá’ís from twelve states who participated in the United Nations Seminar — pictured in the U.N. Garden.
Bahá’ís Attend Two-Day Seminar At United Nations[edit]
About sixty Bahá’ís took part in the first UN Committee conducted Seminar at the United Nations, on May 21-22, for the purpose of increasing their knowledge about the organization and learning how it relates to the Faith.
This two-day Seminar included a tour of United Nations, a visit to the new office of the International Bahá’í Community, and the Meditation Room. Films and slides were used to illustrate lectures about U.N. activities, and discussion of how Bahá’ís could celebrate U.N. Day and Human Rights Day was of particular interest.
A highlight was the talk given by Mr. Erik Valters, United Nations Information Officer, who brought out the fact that today’s world is very different than it was twenty years ago when the United Nations Charter was drawn up, and many international crises develop which were never envisioned by the founders, for which solutions must be found.
The participants in the Workshop, chosen by their LSA’s, came from Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia and Washington, D.C. It is hoped this will become an annual event and that a larger area of the country may be included in the future.
First Local Spiritual Assembly of San Luis Obispo,
California formed April 21, 1966. Left to right: Mrs.
Diane Woodward, Gerald Woodward (v. chairman);
Mrs. Chris Faulconer (chairman), Bhola Aneja, Mrs.
Jan Williams (secretary), Manoucher Karami, Mrs.
Karen Fallahi, Sia Fallahi, Mrs. Genevieve Riggs
(treasurer).
Local Spiritual Assembly of Alameda, California incorporated May 19, 1966. Front, left to right: Catherine
Rafaat, Verna Rowley, Pearl Newcomer, Margaret
Cavanaugh. Rear, left to right: Hugh Rowley, John
Newcomer, Robert Heidrick, Leonard Kress, Atollah
Rafaat.
Ninth Annual Southwestern Bahá’í Summer School Resounding Success[edit]
Well-Planned Program Drew Beautiful Response[edit]
“Best session yet!” was the enthusiastic consensus of those attending the Ninth Annual Southwestern Bahá’í Summer School. This year the School was held at the Assembly of God Camp at Turner Falls, Oklahoma, a great improvement over last year’s locale. Of the ninety-six attending, approximately twenty-five were age thirteen and younger, twenty-five were youth and the rest adults, resulting in a nicely balanced session. Weekends were crammed with special programs, as were the evenings, with special emphasis on examples of significant observances of Bahá’í Holy Days and Bahá’í functions such as weddings.
Weekend programs included an address by NSA member Paul Pettit, giving frank treatment of the subject of Bahá’í morality and the necessity for obedience to Bahá’í laws; an outstanding course on teaching the Bahá’í Faith through the use of music, given by Dr. Allan Ward; a course on ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, also presented by Dr. Ward; and “A Different Kind of Pilgrimage,” slide program presented by “Sissy” Weil.
Variety of Topics Timely and Inspiring[edit]
Daily classes were given on the following subjects: Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, taught by Auxiliary Board member, Dr. William Tucker, and based primarily on the Epistle to the Son of the Wolf; Proclamation to the Kings, Mrs. Jane McCants, using The Promised Day is Come; The Individual Believer and the Covenant, beautifully presented by Mrs. Virginia Johnson, who substituted without notice for Mrs. Velma Sherrill; a History of the Faith, prepared by Dr. Allan Ward (who was unable to be with us during the week) effectively handled by Orville Teske; and a class on Pioneering, given by Mrs. Vivian Haley, based on her pioneering experiences in Honduras. Youth attended adult classes except one on the Covenant, attending instead a class taught by Sissy Weil, “Youth and the Covenant.”
Classes for the “Young Set”[edit]
Children’s classes were competently taught by Mrs. Virginia Johnson, Mrs. Liz Gibson, Mrs. Lena Watson, Mrs. Jean Rowell, Mrs. Mary Helen Brown and Miss “Happy” Callaway. Assisting the teachers were the Misses Antoinette Lovelady and Teri Norman. Miss Sudie Faith Johnson had charge of the Arts and Crafts Program for the School, and did a magnificent job.
Evening Program Highlights[edit]
Featured evening programs enriched the total experience of the session. There was an example of the Commemoration of the Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh; a slide program of Europe, by Sissy Weil; a declaration for Al Burgess and Stacey Dobbins (both youth) combined with a birthday party for Stacey and Allene Squires, followed by a marshmallow roast; and a mock Bahá’í wedding. Children’s night on Friday was a surprise treat for all. It was amazing to see what they had accomplished during the week. The room was filled with their creations — calendars, Greatest Names,
Children’s Night at the ninth annual Southwestern Bahá’í summer school was an outstanding evening.
flowers (which were distributed to all). They sang,
recited prayers, demonstrated positions they like to use
while praying, and told of ways they would demonstrate the Bahá’í way of life. Climaxing the evening
was a puppet show by the older children using a skit
written by Sudie Faith Johnson.
An Unforgettable Night[edit]
An unusually beautiful and dramatic observance of the Declaration of the Báb was staged by Paul Pettit, Jane McCants and William Tucker. They were assisted by the youth chorus, ably trained and led by Iris Reaves. This was followed by a surprise birthday party for Vic Di Buono, who had arrived two days before to take over as manager of the camp cafeteria for the rest of the summer. In addition to being attracted to the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh, he had become so impressed with the unity and warmth of the group that he was moved to make his declaration that night. Following this thrilling moment, Paul Pettit showed his magnificent slides of Bahá’í activities taken over a period of years.
Special Commendation Due[edit]
Individuals who contributed in an outstanding manner to the success of the school were Rudy Koskie, who in addition to his kitchen capabilities displayed an array of talents which assured the smooth-running of the camp; Mrs. Alice King, cook, who delighted in providing delectable “goodies” for evening snacks; Brandie Watson and Lynne King, youth counselors, who won the hearts and the wholehearted cooperation of the youth; Liz Gibson, who lent her talents to everything in the children’s department, and Mike Reimer, whose leadership and ability made him an excellent youth coordinator. The committee is deeply indebted to the teachers, staff and participants, whose enthusiastic efforts made this “the best session yet!”
NEWS BRIEFS[edit]
That the dispersal of Bahá’ís to serve as pioneers for the Faith is newsworthy has been demonstrated by the Urbana and Champaign, Illinois Bahá’í communities when they recently received a detailed three column writeup with picture in the local daily newspaper, the News-Gazette, in which the story of those who are leaving is told in some detail and the basic purposes of teaching the Faith are given. A total of fourteen adults, a youth and five children are leaving the two communities and, as stated in the writeup, “They will not meddle in local or national politics, will be law-abiding in their methods. They will share with those who express interest their belief that the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh are divinely inspired.”
Another “first” for the Faith occurred May 18 when students at Wellesley College, Wellesley, Massachusetts were given an opportunity to hear a discussion of the Bahá’í Faith by a Bahá’í speaker, Winston Evans. Sponsored by the Chapel Organization of the College the meeting was held in one of the College buildings and dealt with the subject, “Christ and Bahá’u’lláh”. Prof. Warren Wagar of Wellesley’s History Department introduced the speaker and led the discussion. Prof. Wagar in his opening remarks referred to the Faith thus: “The Bahá’í Faith interests me more than any religion in the world today ... it is intriguing to anyone concerned with the problem of a coming world order.” In his book, The City of Man, Prof. Wagar devoted several pages to a discussion of the Faith and its plan for a World Order. The student weekly, Wellesley College News carried writeups of the meeting both before and after May 18. The accounts totalled twenty column inches and gave the important basic facts of the Faith quite accurately.
The Bahá’í Faith was brought to the attention of an estimated 350,000 people in the Twin Cities of Benton Harbor and St. Joseph, Michigan on May 7, 1966, the occasion being the annual Blossomtime Parade which attracts people from miles around.
The Bahá’í group of St. Joseph entered a float in the parade, the theme of which was “Steps to Peace”. The float was built in four steps representing: education, understanding, love and, on top, a globe with the word Peace across it. On each of the steps were children of different races holding the U.N. flag and the religious symbols of the major religions. The words “Bahá’í World Faith” appeared on the float, which received a very enthusiastic welcome all along the three mile parade route.
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National Bahá’í Addresses
Please Address Mail Correctly! National Bahá’í Administrative Headquarters: National Treasurer: Bahá’í Publishing Trust: Bahá’í News:
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Calendar of Events[edit]
- FEASTS
- August 20—Asmá’ (Names)
- September 8—‘Izzat (Might)
- U.S. NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY MEETING
- August 12-15
Baha’i House of Worship[edit]
- Daily
- 10:00 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Sundays
- 3:30 to 4:00 p.m.
- Sundays
- 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. 60091.
