| ←Previous | Bahá’í News Issue 426 |
Next→ |
 Proofread onceReturn to PDF view
|
| No. 426 | BAHA’I YEAR 123 | SEPTEMBER, 1966 |
The Guardianship and the Universal House of Justice[edit]
RELATIONSHIP EXPLAINED BY THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
Passages from a letter written by the Universal House of Justice on 27th May 1966 in response to questions asked by an individual believer on the relationship between the Guardianship and the Universal House of Justice. Published with permission of the Universal House of Justice.
Dear Bahá’í Friend,
... You query the timing of the election of the Universal House of Justice in view of the Guardian’s statement: “... given favorable circumstances under which the Bahá’ís of Persia and the adjoining countries under Soviet rule, may be enabled to elect their national representatives ... the only remaining obstacle in the way of the definite formation of the International House of Justice will have been removed.” On 19th April 1947 the Guardian, in a letter written on his behalf by his secretary, replied to the enquiry of an individual believer about this passage: “At the time he referred to Russia there were Bahá’ís there, now the community has practically ceased to exist, therefore the formation of the International House of Justice cannot depend on a Russian N.S.A., but other strong N.S.A.s will have to be built up before it can be established.”
You suggest the possibility that, for the good of the Cause, certain information concerning the succession to Shoghi Effendi is being withheld from the believers. We assure you that nothing whatsoever is being withheld from the friends for whatever reason. There is no doubt at all that in the Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Shoghi Effendi was the authority designated to appoint his successor, but he had no children and all the surviving Aghṣan had broken the Covenant. Thus, as the Hands of the Cause stated in 1957, it is clear that there was no one he could have appointed in accordance with the provisions of the Will. To have made an appointment outside the clear and specific provisions of the Master’s Will and Testament would obviously have been an impossible and unthinkable course of action for the Guardian, the divinely-appointed upholder and defender of the Covenant. Moreover, that same Will had provided a clear means for the confirmation of the Guardian’s appointment of his successor, as you are aware. The nine Hands to be elected by the body of the Hands were to give their assent by secret ballot to the Guardian’s choice. In 1957 the entire body of the Hands, after fully investigating the matter, announced that Shoghi Effendi had appointed no successor and left no will. This is documented and established.
The fact that Shoghi Effendi did not leave a will cannot be adduced as evidence of his failure to obey Bahá’u’lláh — rather should we acknowledge that in his very silence there is a wisdom and a sign of his infallible guidance. We should ponder deeply the writings that we have, and seek to understand the multitudinous significances that they contain. Do not forget that Shoghi Effendi said two things were necessary for a growing understanding of the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh: the passage of time and the guidance of the Universal House of Justice.
The Infallibility of the Universal House of Justice Within Its Ordained Sphere[edit]
The infallibility of the Universal House of Justice, operating within its ordained sphere, has not been made dependent upon the presence in its membership of the Guardian of the Cause. Although in the realm of interpretation the Guardian’s pronouncements are always
[Page 2]
binding, in the area of the Guardian’s participation in legislation it is always the decision of the House
itself which must prevail. This is supported by the
words of the Guardian: “The interpretation of the
Guardian, functioning within his own sphere, is as
authoritative and binding as the enactments of the
International House of Justice, whose exclusive right
and prerogative is to pronounce upon and deliver the
final judgment on such laws and ordinances as Bahá’u’lláh has not expressly revealed. Neither can, nor will
ever, infringe upon the sacred and prescribed domain
of the other. Neither will seek to curtail the specific and
undoubted authority with which both have been divinely invested.
“Though the Guardian of the Faith has been made the permanent head of so august a body he can never, even temporarily, assume the right of exclusive legislation. He cannot override the decision of the majority of his fellow-members, but is bound to insist upon a reconsideration by them of any enactment he conscientiously believes to conflict with the meaning and to depart from the spirit of Bahá’u’lláh’s revealed utterances.”
However, quite apart from his function as a member and sacred head for life of the Universal House of Justice, the Guardian, functioning within his own sphere, had the right and duty “to define the sphere of the legislative action” of the Universal House of Justice. In other words, he had the authority to state whether a matter was or was not already covered by the Sacred Texts and therefore whether it was within the authority of the Universal House of Justice to legislate upon it. No other person, apart from the Guardian, has the right or authority to make such definitions. The question therefore arises: In the absence of the Guardian, is the Universal House of Justice in danger of straying outside its proper sphere and thus falling into error? Here we must remember three things: First, Shoghi Effendi, during the thirty-six years of his Guardianship, has already made innumerable such definitions, supplementing those made by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and by Bahá’u’lláh Himself. As already announced to the friends, a careful study of the Writings and interpretations on any subject on which the House of Justice proposes to legislate always precedes its act of legislation. Second, the Universal House of Justice, itself assured of divine guidance, is well aware of the absence of the Guardian and will approach all matters of legislation only when certain of its sphere of jurisdiction, a sphere which the Guardian has confidently described as “clearly defined”. Third, we must not forget the Guardian’s written statement about these two institutions: “Neither can, nor will ever, infringe upon the sacred and prescribed domain of the other.”
Enactments of Universal House of Justice Are Inspired and Spiritual[edit]
As regards the need to have deductions made from the Writings to help in the formulation of the enactments of the House of Justice, there is the following text from the pen of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá:
“Those matters of major importance which constitute the foundation of the Law of God are explicitly recorded in the Text, but subsidiary laws are left to the House of Justice. The wisdom of this is that the times never remain the same, for change is a necessary quality and an essential attribute of this world, and of time and place. Therefore the House of Justice will take action accordingly.
“Let it not be imagined that the House of Justice will take any decision according to its own concepts and opinions. God forbid! The Supreme House of Justice will take decisions and establish laws through the inspiration and confirmation of the Holy Spirit, because it is in the safekeeping and under the shelter and protection of the Ancient Beauty, and obedience to its decisions is a bounden and essential duty and an absolute obligation, and there is no escape for anyone.
“Say, O People: Verily the Supreme House of Justice is under the wings of your Lord, the Compassionate, the All-Merciful, that is under His protection, His care, and His shelter; for He has commanded the firm believers to obey that blessed, sanctified and all-subduing body, whose sovereignty is divinely ordained and of the Kingdom of Heaven and whose laws are inspired and spiritual.
“Briefly, this is the wisdom of referring the laws of society to the House of Justice. In the religion of Islám, similarly, not every ordinance was explicitly revealed; nay not a tenth part of a tenth part was included in the Text; although all matters of major importance were specifically referred to, there were undoubtedly thousands of laws which were unspecified. These were devised by the divines of a later age according to the laws of Islamic jurisprudence, and individual divines made conflicting deductions from the original revealed ordinances.
All these were enforced. Today this process of deduction is the right of the body of the House of Justice, and the deductions and conclusions of individual learned men have no authority, unless they are endorsed by the House of Justice. The difference is precisely this, that from the conclusions and endorsements of the body of the House of Justice whose members are elected by and known to the worldwide Bahá’í community, no differences will arise; whereas the conclusions of individual divines and scholars would definitely lead to
[Page 3]
differences, and result in schism, division and
dispersion. The oneness of the Word would be
destroyed, the unity of the Faith would disappear,
and the edifice of the Faith of God would be
shaken.”
Ensures Continuity of Authority Which Flows From the Source of Our Faith[edit]
In the Order of Bahá’u’lláh there are certain functions which are reserved to certain institutions, and others which are shared in common, even though they may be more in the special province of one or the other. For example, although the Hands of the Cause of God have the specific functions of protection and propagation, and are specialized for these functions, it is also the duty of the Universal House of Justice and the Spiritual Assemblies to protect and teach the Cause — indeed teaching is a sacred obligation placed upon every believer by Bahá’u’lláh. Similarly, although after the Master authoritative interpretation was exclusively vested in the Guardian, and although legislation is exclusively the function of the Universal House of Justice, these two Institutions are, in Shoghi Effendi’s words, “complementary in their aim and purpose.” “Their common, their fundamental object is to ensure the continuity of that divinely-appointed authority which flows from the Source of our Faith, to safeguard the unity of its followers and to maintain the integrity and flexibility of its teachings.” Whereas the Universal House of Justice cannot undertake any function which exclusively appertained to the Guardian, it must continue to pursue the object which it shares in common with the Guardianship.
As you point out with many quotations, Shoghi Effendi repeatedly stressed the inseparability of these two institutions. Whereas he obviously envisaged their functioning together, it cannot logically be deduced from this that one is unable to function in the absence of the other. During the whole thirty-six years of his Guardianship Shoghi Effendi functioned without the Universal House of Justice. Now the Universal House of Justice must function without the Guardian, but the principle of inseparability remains. The Guardianship does not lose its significance nor position in the Order of Bahá’u’lláh merely because there is no living Guardian. We must guard against two extremes: one is to argue that because there is no Guardian all that was written about the Guardianship and its position in the Bahá’í World Order is a dead letter and was unimportant; the other is to be so overwhelmed by the significance of the Guardianship as to underestimate the strength of the Covenant, or to be tempted to compromise with the clear texts in order to find somehow, in some way, a “Guardian”.
This Is God’s Cause: Its Light Will Not Fail[edit]
Service to the Cause of God requires absolute fidelity and integrity and unwavering faith in Him. No good but only evil can come from taking the responsibility for the future of God’s Cause into our own hands and trying to force it into ways that we wish it to go regardless of the clear texts and our own limitations. It is His Cause. He has promised that its light will not fail. Our part is to cling tenaciously to the revealed Word and to the Institutions that He has created to preserve His Covenant.
It is precisely in this connection that the believers must recognize the importance of intellectual honesty and humility. In past dispensations many errors arose because the believers in God’s Revelation were overanxious to encompass the Divine Message within the framework of their limited understanding, to define doctrines where definition was beyond their power, to explain mysteries which only the wisdom and experience of a later age would make comprehensible, to argue that something was true because it appeared desirable and necessary. Such compromises with essential truth, such intellectual pride, we must scrupulously avoid.
If some of the statements of the Universal House of Justice are not detailed the friends should realize that the cause of this is not secretiveness, but rather the determination of this body to refrain from interpreting the teachings and to preserve the truth of the Guardian’s statement that “Leaders of religion, exponents of political theories, governors of human institutions ... need have no doubt or anxiety regarding the nature, the origin or validity of the institutions which the adherents of the Faith are building up throughout the world. For these lie embedded in the teachings themselves, unadulterated and unobscured by unwarranted inferences, or unauthorized interpretations of His Word.”
Distinction Between Authoritative and Individual Interpretation[edit]
A clear distinction is made in our Faith between authoritative interpretation and the interpretation or understanding that each individual arrives at for himself from his study of its teachings. While the former is confined to the Guardian, the latter, according to the guidance given to us by the Guardian himself, should by no means be suppressed. In fact such individual interpretation is considered the fruit of man’s rational power and conducive to a better understanding of the teachings, provided that no disputes or arguments arise among the friends and the individual himself understands and makes it clear that
[Page 4]
his views are merely his own. Individual interpretations continually change as one grows in comprehension of the teachings. As Shoghi Effendi wrote: “To
deepen in the Cause means to read the writings of
Bahá’u’lláh and the Master so thoroughly as to be able
to give it to others in its pure form. There are many
who have some superficial idea of what the Cause
stands for. They, therefore, present it together with all
sorts of ideas that are their own. As the Cause is still in
its early days we must be most careful lest we fall into
this error and injure the Movement we so much adore.
There is no limit to the study of the Cause. The more we
read the Writings, the more truths we can find in Them,
the more we will see that our previous notions were
erroneous.” So, although individual insights can be
enlightening and helpful, they can also be misleading.
The friends must therefore learn to listen to the views
of others without being over-awed or allowing their
faith to be shaken, and to express their own views
without pressing them on their fellow Bahá’ís.
The Cause of God is organic, growing and developing like a living being. Time and again it has faced crises which have perplexed the believers, but each time the Cause, impelled by the immutable purpose of God, overcame the crisis and went on to greater heights.
“Unto the Most Holy Book Every One Must Turn”[edit]
However great may be our inability to understand the mystery and the implications of the passing of Shoghi Effendi, the strong cord to which all must cling with assurance is the Covenant. The emphatic and vigorous language of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Will and Testament is at this time, as at the time of His own passing, the safeguard of the Cause:
“Unto the Most Holy Book every one must turn and all that is not expressly recorded therein must be referred to the Universal House of Justice. That which this body, whether unanimously or by a majority doth carry, that is verily the Truth and the Purpose of God Himself. Whoso doth deviate therefrom is verily of them that love discord, hath shown forth malice, and turned away from the Lord of the Covenant.” And again: “All must seek guidance and turn unto the Center of the Cause and the House of Justice. And he that turneth unto whatsoever else is indeed in grievous error.”
The Universal House of Justice, which the Guardian said would be regarded by posterity as “the last refuge of a tottering civilization” is now, in the absence of the Guardian, the sole infallibly guided institution in the world to which all must turn, and on it rests the responsibility for ensuring the unity and progress of the Cause of God in accordance with the revealed Word. There are statements from the Master and the Guardian indicating that the Universal House of Justice, in addition to being the Highest Legislative Body of the Faith, is also the body to which all must turn, and is the “apex” of the Bahá’í Administrative Order, as well as the “supreme organ of the Bahá’í Commonwealth”. The Guardian has in his writings specified for the House of Justice such fundamental functions as the formulation of future world-wide teaching plans, the conduct of the administrative affairs of the Faith, and the guidance, organization and unification of the affairs of the Cause throughout the world. Furthermore in God Passes By the Guardian makes the following statement: “The Kitáb-i-Aqdas ... not only preserves for posterity the basic laws and ordinances on which the fabric of His future World Order must rest, but ordains, in addition to the function of interpretation which it confers upon His Successor, the necessary institutions through which the integrity and unity of His Faith can alone be safeguarded.” He has also, in “The Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh”, written that the members of the Universal House of Justice “and not the body of those who either directly or indirectly elect them, have thus been made the recipients of the divine guidance which is at once the life-blood and ultimate safeguard of this Revelation.”
As the Universal House of Justice has already announced, it cannot legislate to make possible the appointment of a successor to Shoghi Effendi, nor can it legislate to make possible the appointment of any more Hands of the Cause, but it must do everything within its power to ensure the performance of all those functions which it shares with these two mighty Institutions. It must make provision for the proper discharge in future of the functions of protection and propagation, which the administrative bodies share with the Guardianship and the Hands of the Cause; it must, in the absence of the Guardian, receive and disburse the Ḥuqúqu’lláh, in accordance with the following statement of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá: “Disposition of the Ḥuqúq, wholly or partly, is permissible, but this should be done by permission of the authority in the Cause to whom all must turn.”; it must make provision in its Constitution for the removal of any of its members who commits a sin “injurious to the common weal”. Above all, it must, with perfect faith in Bahá’u’lláh, proclaim His Cause and enforce His Law so that the Most Great Peace shall be firmly established in this world and the foundation of the Kingdom of God on earth shall be accomplished.
—THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
Universal House of Justice Gives Revised Statistics[edit]
In a recent communication to the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States, the Universal House of Justice sent the following statistical information:
Countries now open to the Faith | 305 |
Independent countries | 124 |
Territories and islands | 181 |
Number of localities where Bahá’ís live throughout the world | 25,000 |
Number of local assemblies | 5,800 |
Number of Temple sites acquired | 50 |
Number of languages into which Bahá’í literatures has been translated | 369 |
Universal House of Justice Commends “A New Way of Life”[edit]
The Bahá’í youth in particular will be interested to know that the Universal House of Justice has commended the publication A New Way of Life: [What it Means to be a Bahá’í Youth], stating that they were “highly pleased” with it. They also requested that copies be sent in their name to all National Spiritual Assemblies having a Nine Year Plan goal of extending Bahá’í education to the largest number possible of Bahá’í youth. This was done by the Bahá’í Publishing Trust.
The publication has met with a warm response from the youth, as well as all of the Bahá’í agencies interested in youth teaching work. Some 6,000 copies have gone out in the approximate nine months of its existence.
First Sardinian Believer Enrolled[edit]
The history of the Faith in Sardinia began when ‘Abdu’l-Bahá mentioned it in his Tablets of the Divine Plan. Then Shoghi Effendi launched the Ten Year Crusade in 1953. In November 1953 Marie Ciocca (Holmlund), the first Bahá’í, landed on shores which had seen an endless number of conquerors arrive, only this time it was a spiritual conquest.
During the next thirteen years many Bahá’í visitors came to the island, often pilgrims returning from the Holy Land. The most devoted, constant visitors were Hand of the Cause, Dr. Ugo Giachery and his wife, who made numerous visits throughout the years. Through their efforts, hundreds learned of the Faith. Finally a permanent group was formed, but still there were no native believers.
Then, on April 6, 1966, Signora Livia Pargentino of Cagliari (the capital of Sardinia) became the first person in Sardinia to accept the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh. Her search was a long, patient one. By God’s will, the miracle took place. She understood and accepted. Thus the first fruit has been gathered in Sardinia.
Photo (inset) shows the members of the Cagliari Sardinia Bahá’í Group as follows (left to right): James Holmlund (auxiliary board member), Mrs. Marie Holmlund (first pioneer to Sardinia), Lady Kathleen Hornell, Fereidun Mazlum and Mrs. Livia Pargentino, first Sardinian Bahá’í.
May the combined efforts of all those who have served and sacrificed bring about a rich harvest. May the outstanding traits of loyalty, strong-mindedness and hospitality which distinguish the Sardinians be used to serve the Faith and may the island realize a spiritual rebirth that shall far surpass the material one now taking place!
Italian Convention April 24-25, 1966 at the Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds, Rome, with Hand of the Cause Dr. Adelbert Mühlschlegel.
[Page 6]
Members of the newly elected National Spiritual Assembly of Italy, left to right, seated: Mrs. A. Boerio,
(secretary); Mr. H. Mahbubi, (chairman); Mrs. M.
Bosio, (assistant secretary); Miss T. Taffa, (recording
secretary); standing: Mr. A. Robiati, Mr. G. Jacoviello,
(treasurer); Mrs. A. De Falco; Professor A. Bausani;
Mr. H. Avaregan.
Members of the National Spiritual Assembly of the
Netherlands, 1966: Left to right; Edward L. Bode, Lout
van Veenendaal (vice-chairman), Mrs. Maas Vander
Garde (recording secretary), Jan Sysling, Rein Gramsma (treasurer), Masoud Mazgani, Bob Van Lith (chairman), Mrs. Lottie Tobias (corresponding secretary)
and Kamran Ala’i.
Formation of New London Borough Assemblies[edit]
The Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of London was the first Bahá’í Assembly formed, about forty years ago, in the British Isles. During recent years the size of the London community grew into one of the largest in the western world. Recently when the local authorities reorganized the boroughs of London, the Universal House of Justice directed the dissolution of the London Assembly and formation of individual borough assemblies. Consequently the London Assembly was dissolved on April 21, 1966 and twelve new London Borough assemblies were formed in Barnet, Brent, Camden, Croydon, Ealing, Hammersmith, Harringey, Havering, Kensington-Chelsea, Lambeth, Wandsworth and Westminister.
During its long and illustrious existence, London Assembly and community played an important role in the Bahá’í activities in the British Isles and elsewhere. Today there are many valiant pioneers in Britain and abroad, who arose in the service of the Faith when they were members of the London community. Former members of the London Assembly included Hands of the Cause, Hasan Balyuzi and John Ferraby; and two members of the Universal House of Justice, David Hofman and Ian Semple.
Besides the increase in the number of local assemblies, the teaching activities in the Greater London area have increased many-fold.
Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of London, England
elected at Riḍván, 122 (April 21, 1965) the last year of
its existence. Front, left to right: Mrs. Kathleen Hyett
(vice chairman), Mrs. Meherangiz Munsiff, Miss Vivian
Isenthal. Rear, left to right: A. Nazar, Ron Stee (secretary), A. Gollestaneh, Eruch Munsiff (chairman), Donald Millar (treasurer), Hassan Afnan.
South America Meets New Challenges[edit]
Bahá’í News has been privileged to share with its readers in recent months many interesting stories of achievement, notably the Indian teaching work in Venezuela and Colombia, regional teaching conferences in Argentina and youth conferences in Bolivia and Brazil. The following items briefly cover activities not previously reported and are from a summary report in the bulletin prepared by the Hands of the Cause in South America.
Brazil, Colombia, Peru Join Forces in Amazon[edit]
The three National Spiritual Assemblies of Brazil, Colombia and Peru have joined forces and are sending material resources and traveling teachers for the development of the Faith in the enormous, elevated Amazon area, where there are already firmly established Local Spiritual Assemblies in Iquitos, Peru, Leticia, Colombia and Marco, Brazil.
Three National Assemblies Fulfill Joint Goal[edit]
Fulfilling one of the joint goals set by the Universal House of Justice for the National Spiritual Assemblies of Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay thirty-five Bahá’ís took advantage of their collective vacation during Carnival Week to hold a school for Bahá’í teachers. Six Bahá’ís from Paraguay and five from Uruguay met with twenty-four believers from Argentina in the peaceful, interior city of Colón, geographically located an equal distance from Buenos Aires, Asunción and Montevideo. For nine consecutive days they underwent a concentrated preparation for teaching. The program was made up of six principal subjects: Origin and history of the Bahá’í Faith; The Spiritual Life of the Individual; The Administrative Order; The Essential Truths and Principles of the Faith; Teaching the Cause; Special Events and Bahá’í Social Life. These three National Assemblies plan an amplification and consolidation of this International Institute in the near future.
Bolivia Plans Five Regional Institutes[edit]
The National Spiritual Assembly of Bolivia has recently decided to form five Regional Institutes located in different areas of the country. Each of these Institutes will have its director and teacher, both living permanently in the area and dedicating all their time to teaching work. The basic goals of these Schools will be three: (1) To prepare voluntary Bahá’í teachers who
[Page 7]
Three villages in the Cuzco area of
Peru where active teaching work is
carried on by pioneers Senor and
Senora Fernando Alvarez. Left to
right (and below) are Bahá’ís from
the villages of Ocutúan, Chinchero
and Huama.
will help local assemblies in augmenting Bahá’í life in the community. These teachers will also teach in the villages and work in the consolidation of the Faith. (2) To teach voluntary Bahá’í instructors to read and write. (3) To establish primary schools for the children and young people of the nearby villages.
The intense teaching work done in the villages this past year has resulted in some of the popular leaders in these villages fearing that they were losing their influence among the people and hence beginning a calumnious campaign against the Bahá’ís, causing much anguish for the National Assembly and the Hands of the Cause. This serious threat was lessened by an intense action of enlightening the public with supportive documents and official publications issued by government ministers, testifying to the beneficial character of the Bahá’í Faith. The testimony in these official publications from the highest government departments is of inestimable value to the Faith, and represents a recognition of our beloved Faith in Bolivia.
Chile Sends Pioneer Nearest the South Pole[edit]
This year the Bahá’ís in Chile have made many important advancements toward fulfillment of the goals they have been assigned in the Nine Year Plan by the Universal House of Justice.
The goal of Tierra de Fuego Island was filled by the Paraguayan pioneer, Rudolfo Flecha, who arrived at the city of Ushuaia in the middle of March as the result of international collaboration between Chile, Argentina and Paraguay. Ushuaia is located on the southern point of the continent, even closer than Punta Arenas to Cape Horn, which makes it the Bahá’í locality nearest the South Pole.
The goal of Mocha Island was filled by pioneer, Agapito Bravo. Bahá’í pioneer, Luz G. Abarca, went to Chiloé Island, and is now teaching throughout this Archipelago group.
Teaching the Faith through Correspondence Courses has attained good results. Altogether 223 persons have studied the Faith through these courses, 101 having completed their course. The students are from fifty different localities. Plans are made to make personal contact with each one. Because of the good results of this type of teaching, the National Spiritual Assembly has decided to increase the use of these courses, improve the material which is sent and cultivate the valuable relationship won through this contact.
Colombia Opens San Andre and Providence Islands[edit]
The goal Islands of San Andre and Providence were opened by Charles and Helen Hornby, who have enlisted a number of Bahá’ís in San Andre and Providence. These Caribbean Islands are part of Colombia but the majority of the inhabitants speak English.
Ecuador Establishes Teaching Institute[edit]
The additional goal assigned to Ecuador by the Universal House of Justice is that of establishing a Teaching Institute anywhere in the area where mass teaching is taking place. This goal is now being attained. The work has been made possible by the generous donation of $3,300 sent by the Bahá’í community of Ardistán, Persia. This sum, although insufficient for the total cost, is a substantial financial base for beginning construction.
The Guianas Acquire New Headquarters in Georgetown[edit]
Combining the financial aid of the National Assembly of Britain with the Bahá’í forces of Georgetown, a
[Page 8]
large, majestic Bahá’í headquarters has been obtained
which will be the future National Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds.
Peru Forms Cuzco Assembly, Site of Permanent Institute[edit]
Last Riḍván the Bahá’í Faith in Peru took a very important step for its progress with the establishment of three new local spiritual assemblies. One of them is in the extremely important center of Cuzco, where a permanent Teaching Institute will be established this year for the development of Bahá’í teachers.
National Assemblies Elected[edit]
The following National Spiritual Assemblies are among those not previously reported in Bahá’í News:
Brazil: Vivaldo Ramos (chairman), Shapoor Monadjem (vice-chairman), Muriel Miessler (corresponding secretary), Osmar Mendes (recording secretary), Djalal Eghrari (treasurer), Alzira Vallandro, Edivaldo Andrade, Nylza Taetz and Robert Miessler.
Chile: Ema Cabezas (chairman), Sergio Aparicio (vice-chairman), Alejandro Reid (corresponding secretary), Leticia Franchino (recording secretary), José Rodriguez (treasurer), Eduardo Roe, Carlos Martinez, Edmundo Fuchslocher and Ricardo Bernardos.
Ecuador: Patricia Conger (chairman), Gonzalo Calderón (vice-chairman), Dorothy Campbell (corresponding secretary). Isabel de Calderón (assistant secretary), Segundo Dávila (treasurer), David Beckett, George Conger, Raúl Pavón and Teresa Jara.
Paraguay: Francisco Laterza (chairman), Luis Mercado (vice-chairman), Susan Baral (corresponding secretary), Angelica Doldán (recording secretary), Gilbert Grasselly (treasurer), Ana Alvarez, Marcos Villalba, Octavio Benitez and Rosa Laterza.
Peru: Enrique Sanchez (chairman), Guillermo Aguilar (vice-chairman), Isabel de Sanchez (corresponding secretary), Oscar Egusquiza (recording secretary), Moraima Casas (treasurer), Alberto Guerrero, Demetrio Molero, Grover Gonzalez and Mabel Long.
Uruguay: Juan Yura, (chairman), Martin La Palma (vice-chairman), Susan Millet (corresponding secretary), Ramón Moreira (recording secretary), Elena de Caraballo (treasurer), Alberto Zerpa, Daisy Powell, Efrain Acosta and Evangelina de Moreira.
Argentina: Vali Samadani (chairman), José Mielnik (vice-chairman), Maralynn Dunbar (corresponding secretary), Aramis Costas (recording secretary), Osvaldo Costas (treasurer), Frida Schwartz, Cayetano Liardo, Cinar Torres and Shapoor Saeed.
Venezuela Convenes in Mountains[edit]
Bahá’ís of Venezuela gathered at Camp Machado, in the mountains near Caracas, on April 23-24 for their Sixth National Convention. The following National Spiritual Assembly was elected: Peter McLaren (chairman), Dr. Jorge Stronach (vice-chairman), Yolanda Rodríguez (corresponding secretary), Rafael González (recording secretary), Addie Teske (treasurer), Yolanda de Stronach, Eloy Carrascal, Martha Posner and Amparo Hernández.
Eight Villages Represented at Guajiro Training Session[edit]
Sixteen Bahá’ís representing eight villages in the Venezuelan Guajira attended the fourth Guajiro Bahá’í Teacher Training Session in the town of Santa Cruz de Mara, April 7-10. Classes on the themes of History, Spiritual Subjects, Administration and Health and Hygiene were presented by a staff of five pioneers. It included a practice local assembly election. Classes on Bahá’í Laws were given by two of the most advanced Guajiro teachers. A competition was held for memorizing prayers, and all were very pleased when the winner of the prize, a framed photograph of the Wilmette Bahá’í Temple, turned out to be the youngest member, who had learned six prayers. Each student made two books of drawings and teachings and also a mobile displaying pictures symbolizing the unity of all mankind.
Each student brought his own hammock, plate, cup and spoon. Thus, the problem of providing facilities for sleeping and eating was readily solved. About half of those attending contributed some food for the meals in order to help reduce costs. In this way a first step was taken toward the goal of universal participation in the Bahá’í Fund, as requested by the Universal House of Justice, be it in money or kind.
The beautiful spirit demonstrated by students and teachers alike, made this Teacher Training Session the most successful one yet organized in this area of Venezuela.
Fourth Guajiro Bahá’í Teacher Training Session, Santa Cruz de Mara Venezuela, held April 7-10, 1966.
[Page 9]
Ninth Annual Alaska Bahá’í Summer School, Juneau, Alaska, June 25-29, 1966. Hand of the Cause William Sears and Auxiliary Board member Ted Anderson (front row center) taught classes. Over 70 Bahá’ís and visitors attended these inspiring sessions where Mrs. Marguerite Sears and Beverly Klostoe also presented courses.
Members of the National Spiritual Assembly of Malaysia, 1966: Seated, left to right; Dr. Chellie Sundram (chairman), Mrs. George Lee, Hand of the
Cause Collis Featherstone, Tony Fernandez, (vice-chairman), Standing, left to right; A. K. Rajah, Appu
Raman, S. Vasudevan (secretary), S. Nagaretnam,
Inbum Chinniah (treasurer), Leong Tat Chee (Auxiliary Board member). Absent from photo Dr. John Fozdar of Sarawak.
Teaching expedition in the village of Klikling, Srisaket,
Thailand. Left to right are: Keith Blanding, American
pioneer, Miss Thongsoot, village landowner, Shirin Fozdar, and Mr. Sawai, a student. The statement on the
Landrover is “Bahá’í — The Religion for World Peace”
and the other side states “Bahá’í — The Religion for
World Brotherhood.”
Left above, some of the Aborigine delegates and observers at the Malayan Convention listening to a simultaneous
translation of the proceedings. At right, group of happy Malayan Bahá’ís who came from all over the country to the
Federal capital to attend the annual Convention held at the Third Residential College, University of Malaya.
South Pacific Delegates Assemble in Tonga[edit]
Island Groups
South Pacific Ocean
Fijian Friends Arrive
A Precious Time of Fellowship
NSA Members Meet With Auxiliary Boards[edit]
The third convention of the South Pacific Ocean, held this year at Nuku’alofa, Kingdom of Tonga, consulted in three languages — Tongan, Fijian and Samoan. Opening new island groups, consolidation, translations, organized programs for Bahá’í youth and the encouragement of more participation by women of the islands were topics consulted upon. There were two Auxiliary Board members to represent H. Collis Featherstone, Hand of the Cause for Australasia: Miss Margaret Rowling and Niuoleava Tuataga.
The first two Bahá’ís of the South Pacific Ocean area to pioneer in the Nine Year Plan are Mosese Hokafonu of Tonga and Toma Aviata of American Samoa, shown in photo at right. Mosese left his wife and four children last December to go to Niue Island, a tiny and remote dot in the Pacific Ocean. It was his hope to eventually settle his family there, but this proved unfeasible. There was dismay in Tonga when the friends learned by cable that he was forced to leave Niue, but it changed to joy when he told of fifteen confirmed Bahá’ís on the island, eleven in one village. Mosese then returned to Niue on the next boat where he was permitted to go ashore and assist the new Bahá’ís in forming their first Local Assembly. Mosese still endeavors to return to complete his pioneer service.
Toma Aviata of American Samoa also left a family behind to fill the Tokelau Islands goal, reached by ship once every four months. A Tokelauan by birth, he had
A Public Meeting Is Held
Two “make a beginning”
not seen his homeland for thirty years. Although booking passage is very difficult and often greatly delayed,
Toma’s radiant confidence culminated in his sailing on
April 20. While waiting for his passage in Western
Samoa, Toma assisted in translating prayers into the
Tokelauan language and preparing booklets to take
with him.
Youth Programs Discussed
Hands Call Gathering at West Englewood[edit]
The Conference of the Hands of the Cause in the Western Hemisphere and their Auxiliary Boards in North America which took place from May 20 to 22, 1966 was particularly bountiful because of the choice of meeting place — “The Cabin” in West Englewood, New Jersey, a place blessed by the gracious presence of our beloved Master, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in June, 1912.
Two Hands of the Cause, Mr. William Sears and Mr. Zikru’lláh Khádem were present and read special messages of love and greetings from the Hands of the Cause residing in the Holy Land, from Hands of the Cause Dr. Ugo Giachery and Mr. Jalál Kházeh.
Of the sixteen Auxiliary Board members serving in North America, fifteen were present. Mr. Anthony Lease sent special greetings but could not attend since he was just returning from attending the National Convention of Alaska on behalf of the Hands. Board members in attendance were: Mr. Curtis Kelsey, Mr. Albert James, Mr. Jack McCants, Mrs. Javidukht Khádem, Mrs. Katherine McLaughlin, Mrs. Velma Sherrill, Mrs. Florence Mayberry, Mr. Chester Kahn, Dr. William Tucker, Mrs. Beth McKenty, Mr. William Maxwell, Jr., Mr. Fred Graham, Mrs. Peggy Ross, Mr. Ted Anderson and Mr. Howard Brown.
Guests present for most sessions included eight members of the National Assembly of the United States, eight members of the Canadian National Assembly, the devoted secretary of the National Assembly of Alaska, and individuals representing the Yukon Teaching Committee, the U.S. Foreign Goals Committee, and U.S. National Goals Committee, and the Director of Public Information Department of the National Assembly of the U.S.
Message from the Holy Land[edit]
Among the messages received was one from the Hands of the Cause in the Holy Land, dated May 17, 1966, reading:
“Dearly beloved co-workers: Our hearts overflowing with gratitude for the privilege and bounty of serving the institution fostered and developed by the Beloved Guardian, we assure you of our ardent and continued prayers in the Holy Shrines that your deliberations, exchange of reports and decisions will be guided and assisted from on high, and that our Beloved, Himself, will, from the Abha Kingdom, sustain and strengthen every step you take in the protection and propagation of the Faith, and in keeping constantly before the eyes of the American believers their glorious destiny and the urgent tasks they are now called upon to discharge.
“With deep Bahá’í love and warmest greetings, in the service of the Beloved Guardian.”
Hands of the Cause and Auxiliary Board members at West Englewood meeting.
The conference agenda was arranged to allow the
first day of the conference for consultation of the Hands
and Board members upon all internal affairs; with the
balance given over to consultation with the National
Assembly members and national committee representatives on matters of joint responsibility having to do
with the protection and propagation of the Faith.
Miss Garreta Busey, who continues to be of great assistance to the Hands of the Cause in the Western Hemisphere, was present as an honored guest.
Conference Planned for 1966-67[edit]
In addition to their usual services, the Hands assigned to the Board members as a special project for the 1966-1967 Bahá’í year the initiation of deepening conferences within each assigned territory, in locations offering the best possibility of gathering together large numbers of believers. The Board member initiating each conference will be fully responsible for the agenda, which will include topics especially selected for basic deepening and to be keynoted by the Hands and/or Board members present, followed by full and frank consultation among all attending. The object will be to draw out questions in the minds and hearts of the friends and to encourage the flow of true Bahá’í love and unity.
Teaching Plan Reviewed[edit]
Various aspects of pioneering throughout the Western Hemisphere were explored and discussed, the 1966-1967 homefront teaching structures approved by the various National Assemblies (U.S., Canada, and Alaska) were also reviewed, and the services of the Board members in relation thereto considered.
It was suggested that the Hands and Board members give particular assistance this year to Canada, and all Board members were asked to say the prayer for Canada every morning.
In the United States, Board members were encouraged to cooperate in every possible way with the newly formed National Goals Committee and the some fifty State Goals Committees to achieve the homefront goals.
[Page 13]
Auxiliary Board members with particular experience
in teaching among the Indians, as well as Mrs. Joan
Anderson of the Yukon Teaching Committee who was
present at the Conference, shared their experiences and
it was decided to surge ahead with concentrated efforts
for bringing the Message to the Indians, and that Board
members should endeavor to open new Indian Reservations in the United States, remembering the words of the
beloved Guardian about teaching the Indians, and to
continually inspire the friends, adults and youth, to
arise to this important work.
Each Board member at the Conference pledged to give fifteen days during the coming year to teaching among the Negroes in the South and among the Indians.
Miss Garreta Busey and Mr. Winston Evans, both of whom have had extensive experience teaching the Faith in colleges reviewed some of their experiences and offered valuable suggestions for presenting the Faith on college campuses.
Visit of the Master Recalled[edit]
The consultative portion of this wonderful conference closed on a high spiritual note of deep love and gratitude for the presence of the spirit of the Master Who, fifty-four years ago walked and talked where the participants of the gathering walked and talked, and Who fed the people then gathered in the “Grove” with His own dear hands. Praise and thanksgiving were also felt for our beloved Guardian who, in his unerring guidance and wisdom appointed for our continuing protection and guidance the Hands of the Cause. And deepest praise and gratitude were felt for the Universal House of Justice, that Supreme Infallible Body of the Faith, who will direct and guide the Faith throughout the centuries to come.
A vote of thanks was recorded to all the friends in the Teaneck and Englewood Bahá’í communities who had contributed much to the arrangements for the conference.
As was done during the conference last year, the Hands of the Cause in the Western Hemisphere arranged that this final session be open to all the Bahá’ís in the surrounding area. Large numbers of the friends gathered for two sessions — one for Bahá’ís and one for Bahá’ís and their friends. These sessions were held at the school auditorium in Teaneck, New Jersey, which was filled to overflowing both times.
‘Abdu’l-Bahá had said that many meetings would be held to commemorate His visit to the Cabin in 1912, and as the Hands and members of the Auxiliary Board, the members of the National Assemblies and their national committees along with the friends from the surrounding area gathered for this final session all seemed again to hear His prophetic words. They recalled again the words of the Master spoken in 1912: “Be happy and joyous because the bestowals of God are intended for you and the life of the Holy Spirit is breathing upon you.”
Mass Media Respond[edit]
Several weeks previous to the Conference the Hands of the Cause in the Western Hemisphere consulted with and secured the services of Mrs. Jessica Gaver in arranging publicity for the Faith, using the occasion of the Conference as a lead-in. The following publicity resulted:
1. The Staten Island Advance sent a reporter to interview Hand of the Cause, Mr. Khadem at the Office of the Hands in Staten Island, New York with the result that a good story of the Faith appeared on May 21 in this newspaper.
2. The NBC-TV “Today” Show interviewed Hand of the Cause Mr. William Sears. This interview led to letters of inquiry from the TV audience.
3. CBS-Radio “World of Religion” Program taped an interview with Auxiliary Board member Mrs. Velma Sherrill, which was broadcast on May 26.
4. A press conference breakfast, arranged at the Henry Hudson Hotel by Dr. Roberts Fuller, vice chairman of the New York City local Assembly included representatives from Newsweek, New York Times, United Press International, Hawthorn Books, Inc., Reader’s Digest and Look magazine. The New York Times also sent a photographer. The result is that most of these reporters are holding material to use later this year or next year as our Commemoration of the Tablets to the Kings takes place. United Press International also interviewed Mr. Sears and stated that the interview would go out to 275 independent radio stations.
Gathering to offer prayers at the grove blessed by the presence of the Master in 1912.
[Page 14]
Southeastern Summer Session, June 26-July 2 at Black Mountain, North Carolina
Southeastern Bahá’í Summer Session[edit]
The Southeastern Bahá’í Summer School was held June 26 through July 2, 1966 at Camp Dorothy Walls at Black Mountain, North Carolina. One hundred eighty friends attended.
Up in the luscious green mountainous country of South Carolina the Bahá’ís from a wide area arrived on June 26 to be equal co-sharers in the spiritual benefits conferred on them by Bahá’u’lláh. They came also to be trained in the practice of those virtues needed for a civilization where all men can live harmoniously together and each individual can develop his or her highest spiritual powers. Here could be found relief from tensions and from national, racial and religious animosities with which the world is afflicted.
The physical environment was ideal for spiritual growth. Beauty surrounded Camp Dorothy Walls. Seated in class the students could gaze upon the beautiful mountains surrounding them and drink in visually the grandeur of a beautiful lake. The feeling was of being suspended between heaven and earth as hearts and minds became channels for the Holy Spirit.
Learning About the World Center[edit]
Among the many classes offered was one on “The Universal House of Justice and the World Center” by Mrs. Sylvia Ioas, widow of the beloved Hand of the Cause, Leory Ioas. Mrs. Ioas shared the bounty of her spiritual experiences and love gleaned from fifteen years of residence in Haifa, our World Center. The students were able to learn many precious and interesting facts about their spiritual home, i.e. that the Shrine of the Báb was the first illuminated building on Mt. Carmel; that the Tablet of Carmel was revealed in 1890 and that Bahá’u’lláh revealed it so loudly that the monks from the nearby monastery came out to hear Him.
The class gave the students considerable knowledge and insight into the great sacrifices of time, energy, finances and even life itself spent in the service of Bahá’u’lláh at the World Center.
Roots of the New World Order[edit]
Another class topic was the “Roots of the New World Order” and showed the importance of love and obedience. The high station of man was emphasized, the many aspects of love discussed and many other spiritual qualities were reviewed such as: truthfulness, forgiveness, and generosity as the means whereby man can become the best receptacle on whom the Spirit of God can descend. Methods used to stimulate interest were: question and answers; two minute talks by students; visual aids and awarding of prizes. Among the results of this class were improved confidence and poise in teaching, for as universal participation is the theme for today each must learn, by practice, to teach.
Islám Described[edit]
Beloved Hand of the Cause, Mr. Zikru’lláh Khádem gave a course on Islám, enlightening all with his knowledge and beauty of spirit. He brought out many interesting facts and stories about Islám including the thought that the essence of all chapters in the Qur’an is contained in the first Surih and that two thirds of the Qur’an refers to Bahá’u’lláh. From this class the students learned that Bahá’ís must study Islám in order to understand its close relation to the Bahá’í Faith as well as to defend Islám to the Christians.
Mr. Khádem’s presence was appreciated by all, his emphasis on the great love and knowledge of the Beloved Guardian made all realize the blessings of having today the fruits of the labor of the Guardian in his love.
Responsibility to Children[edit]
Mrs. Javidukht Khádem touched the hearts and enlightened minds in her class on “Family and Community Responsibility to Children.” She shared with the friends her knowledge of the Bahá’í way of life in Persia on such subjects as: marriage, dating and discipline. To the parents who expressed feelings of inadequacy she brought the Bahá’í standards with knowledge and depth of understanding, helping all to grasp the essentials through her radiant spirit and true understanding which came out in humor and anecdotes and use of the question and answer method of teaching. This class aroused the participants to a desire to learn more in this difficult area.*
This session attended by believers from many states came to an end too soon, and it is the hope and expectation of all for participation in another gathering soon. They departed with the resolve to “Bestir themselves and arise with heart and soul and in one accord ... diffuse the sweet savors of God, to teach His Cause and to promote His Faith.” God willing the next session at this place, to be held July 18 to 25, 1967 will likewise become a symbol of Bahá’í love and knowledge for all who come.
* References used in this course include:
Bahá’í World Faith: pp. 383, 398, 399, 187, 185, 290, 200, 176.
Gleanings: pp. 334, 323, 316, 305, 303, 296, 295, 184, 170, 94, 93.
BAHA'I IN THE NEWS[edit]
The Tehran Journal of May 19, in a special column called “Women of the World,” published an extensive story about Mrs. Shirin Fozdar in respect to the International Women’s Conference held in Tehran. Mrs. Fozdar represented the Singapore Council of Women, of which she is the overseas representative, although she no longer lives there. Mrs. Fozdar was also the founder of the council. Of the 300 delegates from 58 countries, only two women were interviewed and written up in the newspaper. The article mentions that Mrs. Fozdar is chairman of the National Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Thailand and that she has arduously fought for the social and political emancipation of women in Asia.
A book entitled Religions in Australia by Tess van Sommers has been published in Australia, containing a photograph of the Sydney Temple and a chapter on the Bahá’í Faith, presenting it in a good light. The book is published by Pix, a pictorial magazine in Australia.
The magazine, Cosmopolitan for April, 1966 published the following paragraph in their column entitled, “Girl’s Guide to Church Going”.
“Bahá’í House of Worship is the only Bahá’í temple in the United States.
The service is short, simple, and philosophical — a smorgasbord of selections from the Sacred Scriptures of Bahá’í faith and other great faiths of the world — read by three laymen (including women) from an ultrasimple podium. An a cappella choir spells the readers.
The congregation is mostly tourist — some in slacks or stretch pants carrying cameras — with some couples from Northwestern, some clergymen, and a few Bahá’í regulars.”
The Ft. Lauderdale News (Florida) for June 23, 1966 carried a column by Bob Considine titled “Religious Views Old and New” in which the Bahá’í pamphlet, One Universal Faith, was named and quoted almost in full, about half the entire column being devoted to the Bahá’í Faith. The columnist gives the name of the Bahá’í (Elsie M. Smith of Marlboro, Mass.) who sent him the pamphlet, and after quoting the pamphlet ends the column with his comment, “Yes, madam, and not a minute too soon.” As this is a nationally syndicated column it undoubtedly appeared in other newspapers throughout the United States.
Baha’i News Briefs[edit]
On May 8, 1966 the Bahá’ís of Australia held a Memoriam Service for Stanley William Bolton, Senior. Bahá’ís around the world will be grieved to learn of the passing of this devoted Bahá’í who, along with his family, have been known for their work in building the Faith in Australia and New Zealand from early days. Believers in Australia will always be grateful to Mr. Bolton for donating the Summer School to the Faith. It is known to the friends there as “Bolton Place.”
Delegates from the Sudan, Somalia and Ethiopia have elected the following National Spiritual Assembly for the coming year: Mr. Gila Michael Bahta (chairman), Dr. Leo Neiderreitter (vice chairman), Mr. Gamal Rushdy (secretary), Mr. Asfaw Tessema (assistant treasurer), Dr. Heshmat Farhoumand (treasurer), Dr. Hushang Ahdieh, Mrs. Ursula Samandari, Mr. Assefaw Habte Michael and Mr. Rabbi Tecle Mariam.
At June luncheon of the National Council of Women of Tasmania, mention was made on the program of the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh, Founder of the Bahá’í World Faith, in respect to equal rights and privileges for both men and women, given to the world in 1863. Mention was also made of Ṭáhirih as a Persian poetess and one of the first Bahá’ís of that land, stating that she was the first woman who cast aside the veil and that she was later martyred for her belief.
Local Assembly Incorporated[edit]
On April 21, 1966 at 8 a.m. the Des Moines, Iowa Assembly filed final papers of incorporation.
Local Spiritual Assembly of Arvada, Colorado formed April 21, 1966. Front, left to right: Mrs. Vivian Richardson, Melvin Richardson, Mrs. Joy McClain, Mrs. Carole Bickle. Rear, left to right: Mrs. Esther Stevenson, John Stevenson, Mrs. Darlene Wagerman, Estes McClain, Jerry Bickle.
Local Spiritual Assembly of Anaheim, California, incorporated January 4, 1966. Front, left to right: Beverly
Walker, Margaret Mitchell, Jessica Bryant, Joanne
Thunberg, Lindsay Rusler. Rear, left to right: Merle
Bryant, Charles Clark, Bernyce Stilwell, Richard Wells.
Baha’i Publishing Trust[edit]
Christ and Bahá’u’lláh by George Townshend. The author of this work, at one time a dignitary of the Anglican Church in Ireland and a Canon of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin, reverently examines the history and meaning of the Christian expectation of the return of Christ and the fulfillment of His promise to establish the Kingdom of God on earth. This is our finest work on this subject, one which Shoghi Effendi called the author’s “crowning achievement.” A Talisman edition is now available under the Publishing Trust’s own imprint, making it possible for the friends to more fully carry out the “very active teaching campaign” which Shoghi Effendi requested when the book was first published. 116 pp.
Per copy | $ .75 |
The following Study Guides and Courses have been
reprinted, all in a new 6 x 9 format, some considerably
revised and, in most instances, at reduced prices:
Divine Art of Living. Study Guide. Seven round table discussions prepared by Marian Lippitt to facilitate study of the Bahá’í Teachings on individual life needs. 16 pp.
Per copy | $ .25 |
10 copies | $2.00 |
Kitáb-i-Íqán. Study Guide. Horace Holley indicated
the dominant themes in this book which give the key to
the study of comparative religion. Arranged for individual or group study. 12 pp.
Per copy | $ .25 |
10 copies | $2.00 |
God Passes By. Study Guide. Horace Holley correlates the Teachings, historical events as well as presenting the Báb, Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá with
statements of their principal Tablets. For study and
discussion. 24 pp.
Per copy | $ .30 |
10 copies | $2.50 |
Spiritual & Social Teachings for the New Age (Introduction to the Bahá’í Teachings). Mamie Seto’s Study
Course revised by Gertrude Robinson. Using New Era, World Order of Bahá’u’lláh and Bahá’í World Faith as
reference texts and with an additional lesson on the
Universal House of Justice, this eleven lesson course is
invaluable for firesides and deepening classes. 24 pp.
Per copy | $ .30 |
10 copies | $2.50 |
Baha’i Distribution and Service Department[edit]
Talks by Hand of the Cause William Sears at 1966 U.S. Convention. Two talks: (1) Message during the evening session, April 28, in which Mr. Sears spoke of the “Divine Formula” used in bringing about successful attainment of goals of the California Victory Committee. (2) Address showing correlation of the events of the Faith with those historic events in American history wherein this country fulfills its spiritual destiny.
7 inch reel; 3¾ ips.; approx. 1 hour total time | $4.50 |
Color Post Cards. Four new post cards approx. 4" by 6"
showing the following scenes in color: House of Worship, Frankfurt, Germany; Youth singing at Green
Acre Bahá’í Institute, Eliot, Maine; Aerial view of
Green Acre Bahá’í Institute, Eliot, Maine; Sarah
Farmer Hall at Green Acre Bahá’í Institute, Eliot,
Maine.
Each | $ .10 |
6 | $ .50 |
25 | $2.00 |
100 | $7.00 |
Music for Bahá’ís, Packet no. 2 (Folk Songs). The
music in this packet falls into several categories: vocal
arrangements for choral groups; songs with piano
accompaniment for solo or group singing; songs with
guitar chords.
Packet only (three hole punched) | $1.25 |
Plastic cover (three hole or 19 hole) | $1.75 |
Half inch metal spine binder, 19 hole | $2.25 |
Order from: Bahá’í Distribution and Service Department; 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091
Baha’i House of Worship[edit]
- Daily
- 10:00 a.m. to 10.00 p.m. (Entire building)
- Sundays
- 3:30 to 4:10 p.m.
- Sundays
- 4:15 p.m.
Calendar of Events[edit]
- FEASTS
- September 8 — ‘Izzat (Might)
- September 27 — Mashíyyat (Will)
- PROCLAMATION EVENT
- September 18 — World Peace Day
- U.S. NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY MEETINGS
- September 30-October 2
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.
