| ←Previous | Bahá’í News Issue 445 |
Next→ |
 Proofread onceReturn to PDF view
|
| No. 445 | BAHA’I YEAR 125 | APRIL 1968 |
Garden View of Bahji[edit]
The Ḥaram-i-Aqdas, the outer Sanctuary of Bahá’u’lláh’s Sepulcher. The Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh is in the rear, right, and the Mansion of Bahjí at the left. Here, during the Feast of Riḍván, members of national spiritual assemblies from all over the world will come to pray, at the time of the second International Convention held to elect the Universal House of Justice.
HAND OF THE CAUSE SAMANDARI SHARES HIS LEGACY[edit]
“Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord” are the words Julia Ward Howe was inspired to write while in Washington, D. C. in December 1861. Through the bountiful favor of The Universal House of Justice and the Hands of the Cause of God in the Western Hemisphere, the North American Continent has been blessed with the presence of one whose eyes have indeed seen the Glory and beheld the countenance of the Lord, Bahá’u’lláh. From one coast to another, Hand of the Cause Țaráẓu’llah Samandari, who was in the presence of the Blessed Beauty, ceaselessly traveled for four months, with only one forced respite during a period of illness in Los Angeles, climaxing his tour with a momentous visit in Wilmette with the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States and two Hands of the Cause, Zikru’lláh Khádem and William Sears.
Initial directives to host assemblies had included requests for extreme consideration of Mr. Samandari’s health, provision for privacy, rest and restriction of attendance to Bahá’ís only, news of which brought pleas from this beloved Hand to be permitted to teach the Cause wherever possible. Dr. Mehdi Sarnandari, his son and translator, later confided that ‘rest’ is a bad word to his father.
Response of Friends:[edit]
Despite hazardous weather reports and conditions in many sections of the country the believers drove as much as 700 miles to hear the forceful pronouncements of Mr. Samandari. One Community reported: “It appeared that no one was truly tested beyond his capacity. The Community found its main manpower resources cut down by flu epidemic. Several weak and aching souls arose to host and care for all the visitors so that nothing would stop the activities for the weekend. The main thought in everyone’s mind and heart was to be sure that the devoted 93-year old Hand of the Cause and his son were comfortable and protected from the terrible weather and flu. Who knows why the day after he left the city the rain, snow, ice and sleet, which were predicted earlier, finally arrived!” Invariably, it is reported that on arrival, the friends were concerned with his apparent feebleness only to be dumbfounded by the momentum of his power and strength once he arose to speak, for as long as two or three hours, hesitating only for translation.
Even the Navajo Reservation at Fort Defiance was historically honored by the presence of this holy soul, where he spoke through both Persian and Navajo translators.
Hand of the Cause Mr. Samandari, right, with his son Dr. Samandari, granddaughter Mrs. Amin Jazab, and great grandchildren Elham and Aram Jazab. This picture appeared in the Nashville Banner of Nashville, Tennessee.
Proclamation:[edit]
In an outstanding demonstration of the significance of Proclamation, this “Herald of His Name”, Mr. Samandari, was undaunted by the news media. After the remarkable interview by Dave Meade, Religion Editor of the Chicago Daily News, was published, bearing the headline: “The Bahá’í Message: Justice and Peace”, Mr. Winston G. Evans was commissioned by the National Spiritual Assembly to precede the Samandaris to the major cities to arrange for comparable interviews, the result of which is far reaching beyond our comprehension.
In addition to announcements, news items and feature stories, including a four-generation portrait, in press, radio and television, major stories were published by the following: Associated Press Religion Editor George Cornell, who although ill himself, granted and kept his appointment with Mr. Samandari and extended it to an interview of more than two hours. Releases have poured into the National Center from as far away as Panama, the world-wide distribution possibilities being from 700 to 4,000 newspapers.
In words such as these, it was reported, Mr. Samandari
related his experiences in the presence of Bahá’u’lláh: “Nobody can recall Him as I can. For six months, as a youth of 16 or 17, I was with Him while He was a prisoner under house arrest. Such a great intelligence and power. I was twice present when His revealed Words were coming, and were recorded by His secretary. The secretary would sit on the floor, with polished paper around him. Bahá’u’lláh would stand at the window, facing the room. In those times, I see His face, I see His whole body, and the Words would come uninterruptedly, very fast, like a torrential rain. At other times, He is so majestic and so powerful it is difficult to look at Him."
Some published the A.P. Wirephoto while local treatment of the headlines varied: “Bahá’í Faith in Centennial Year—See Bright Future.”—“The ‘Hand’ Speaks—Bahá’í Veteran Tells of Religion’s Founder”—“Unity of God Emphasized: Bahá’í: Religion of Future?”—“Bahá’í Faith in ‘Early Stage’ ”—“Bahá’í Faith,—Century old, Hopes to Lead Man to Peace”—“Venerable Persian Describes Tenets of Century-Old Faith”—“A ‘Hand’ Of The Bahá’í Recalls Bahá’u’lláh”, and many others.
Interviews:[edit]
In Los Angeles, Mr. Samandari succumbed to illness that necessitated absolute rest, but proved to be providential. Dan L. Thrapp, Religious Editor of the Los Angeles Times, who had eagerly anticipated meeting with him, was denied this privilege, and subsequently substituted an interview with his son, Dr. Samandari, which resulted in an excellent published article describing his illness and vital information on the Faith. Mr. Thrapp was not satisfied, however, and continued to entreat the doctor to permit him to talk with his father. Finally, a bedside visit was granted. Proclamation reached its peak! “The closest living acquaintance of a founder of one of the world’s spreading religions lay wrapped in a coat and several sweaters on a bed . . . but his face seemed young and animated, and his words came clearly and fast.” “If ‘saints’ were recognized by the Bahá’í World Faith, he no doubt would be so named.” “The old man had the glow of a prophet as he expressed the belief that in Bahá’u’lláh he had seen Christ or His Father.” “Samandari said that the progress of the ‘Message’ would pass through three stages: its proclamation, its absorption into the consciousness of men, and their ultimately acting upon it. World peace, he said, would depend upon the erection of two pillars: the oneness of faith and its consciousness in man, and secondly, the unity of the intellect and reason of man which will come when all spiritual thoughts converge.” The headlines proclaimed: “Aged Persian Likens Self to Apostle Peter: There is Only One Difference, He Asserts; Apostle ‘Heard the Son, I Saw the Father’ ” although it is reported that it was Mr. Thrapp who likened him to Peter.
At the close of every interview, Mr. Samandari, with great love, and a twinkle in his eye, would enjoin the writer with words such as these: “God holds you responsible for accurate reporting.”
One of the most moving incidents is reported by Winston Evans and corroborated by Dr. Samandari. Several years ago a 33-year old millionaire sold his business so that he could devote all of his time to the life of the spirit. He felt that he needed the discipline and training of the Harvard Divinity School. Mr. Evans sought him out soon after he had enrolled at Harvard and found him to be truly universal in his thinking, having already endowed a foundation for the study of World Religions. He responded favorably to the Bahá’í story Without commitment. When Mr. Samandari was in the Boston area, Mr. Evans phoned his friend and asked him if he would like to see someone who had seen Bahá’u’lláh. Pleased with the invitation, he went to see him the following day. Harvard had not changed his thinking. His universal concepts were unruffled. He was captivated by Mr. Samandari. Before departing, he asked for Mr. Samandari’s blessing. While this was being translated the man got down on his knees before Mr. Samandari. The reaction of the Hand was instantaneous. He dropped before the divinity student, saying. “It is forbidden!” What greater lesson in love and humility! As the gentleman left, he said, “After all this
intellectual talk at Harvard this has been like a breath of fresh air.”
At the close of a discussion with Mr. Samandari, Marcus Bach posed the question: “If this is the truth, then why is there not more evidence of the power of the Holy Spirit in the Bahá’ís?” How does one respond to such a challenging statement by such a notable figure? Without hesitation, Mr. Samandari replied: “I was not expecting such a person like yourself to say such a thing because have you forgotten what was the condition in the Dispensation of Christ, how long it took before it was established? Now the Bahá’í Faith is only one century old and already many Bahá’í principles are being put into practice after only one hundred years.” Dr. Bach’s interest in the Faith seemed rekindled, and the spring will find him once again visiting the Holy Land.
Notwithstanding his comprehension of the profundity of the Cause, this progeny of the Dawnbreakers confronted Bahá’ís and non-Bahá’ís alike and taught them the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh with magnificent simplicity, and superb certitude and spirituality. His proclamation of the Station and Mission of Bahá’u’lláh was clear and emphatic. His mounting vigor, his dauntless determination to break through with the Message he brought, his apparent reliance on the Divine Source of energy and inspiration, his overwhelming forthrightness, his obvious state of detachment (he has had no home for decades — his possessions are carried with him in his suitcase), his unqualified love for Bahá’u’lláh and His Covenant reflected in his manifest love for all whom he encountered, has given every believer privileged to hear him cause for self-examination and re-evaluation of his own offerings at the Sacred Threshold.
His Message — to the people:[edit]
In no instance did he compromise the truth. In addition to announcing to them the Proclamation of Bahá’u’lláh, the essence of His Messages, and the responsibility, today, of the people, he exhorted them to be mindful of this second chance — not to make the same mistake made during the time of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit to America by not listening. “If Americans had paid attention to what ‘Abdu’l-Bahá told them and gave them guidance, if they had followed ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s advice, now America could be as a paradise and none of these present difficulties would exist.”
His Message — to the Bahá’í Family:[edit]
“Seventeen years before ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s passing, the American friends arose with such great sacrifice to serve the Faith that they wrote a letter to Him and signed it, pledging complete dedication to the Faith. Such an action caused and attracted His coming to this country . . . . . and then ‘Abdu’l-Bahá came here and sowed seeds and whatever we see in progress of the Faith, it is the result of the same seeds that are growing gradually. The way that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá sowed, one should expect a great harvest.”
He spoke of the individual’s responsibility to teach the Faith. He spoke of the responsibility of members of assemblies to actively teach the Cause, and zealously share their experiences at Feasts and gatherings with the friends, in order to be examples and to inspire them.
Mr. Samandari reiterated everywhere the vital importance of all nine members or assemblies being present at all meetings.
He conveyed, during and at the close of his trip, that he senses a neglect of bringing up children with the spirit of the Faith. “The beloved Guardian was emphatic that the education of children should start from the beginning and mothers are the first to be responsible for this. Parents have not been strong enough in instructing and training the children in the Faith.”
He shared his personal experience while staying in Haifa. He had been ill for some time, thus unable to go to visit Bahá’u’lláh and his heart ached to do so. Finally, when strong enough to go to ‘Akká, he described to the Blessed Perfection his anguish in not having been in His presence. The Beloved asked why he complained; had he not been in the presence of the Master! Yes, he had been! Then, Bahá’u’lláh exclaimed, he had indeed been in the presence of Bahá’u’lláh. This was the first intimation of the real station of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to Mr. Samandari — his first lesson in the Covenant!
Faithful Son and Servant:[edit]
Dr. Mehdi Samandari, Auxiliary Board member in Africa, active teacher and pioneer, son of Țaráẓu’llah Samandari, cannot be commended enough for the part he so patiently, tirelessly, humbly and lovingly played in the drama of these four months. He not only accurately translated the dissertations of his father, but richly reflected the spirit of every word and emotion. His tenderness in caring for the Hand and father was something to behold. When these sentiments were personally voiced to him on behalf of the American Bahá’í Community, he smiled and said: “You know, he left when I was sixteen, starting traveling to teach according to the advice of the Guardian. During this period of time, I saw him seldom. For forty years, he was not with me. In the fifteen years I have spent in Africa, I have only seen and talked with him a few times. This time of being with and serving my father has been my special bounty.”
Parting Message:[edit]
In a final visit with Mr. and Dr. Samandari, the former was asked if there was any special message he would like to leave with the friends: “Tell them,” he said, “If you think it will help, that this old man has traveled the length and breadth of this nation, despite feebleness, ill health, and dangerous weather, in order to serve Bahá’u’lláh.” He was very, very tired when he spoke these words. “You may tell them this, if you think it will help.”
We can only close with the melody of the Master calling out, in His Tablet to the father of Hand of the Cause Țaráẓu’llah Samandari, for those holy souls to arise as promised by Bahá’u’lláh: “O phoenix of that immortal flame kindled in the sacred Tree! . . . . .These shall labor ceaselessly by day and by night, shall heed neither trial nor woe, shall suffer no respite in their efforts, shall seek no repose, shall disregard all ease and comfort and, detached and unsullied, shall consecrate every fleeting moment of their life to the diffusion of the divine fragrance and the exaltation of God’s holy Word. I am waiting, eagerly waiting for these holy ones to appear; and yet, how long will they delay their coming?” (Bahá’í World Faith, p. 354)
Recollections of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Inspire Renewed Dedication[edit]
A memorable evening, fitting beginning to the period of the Fast, brought to the friends a vivid portrayal of the person and life of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, and the privilege of hearing and meeting two Hands of the Cause of God.
Planned as an “Evening of Loving Memories” this meeting on March, 2 in Foundation Hall of the House of Worship in Wilmette, featured many who had met the Master, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá when He visited the United States in 1912. His eagerness to see the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár built in America, His insight into the hearts and souls of those He met; His gentle humor and generous spirit: His love of children and power to awaken the spirit of God in their hearts; these and many other qualities were illustrated in stories and descriptions briefly given by those who met Him. The story of Fred Mortensen, the young man who rode the rods to meet the Master in Green Acre was read by his daughter, Mrs. Katherine Penoyer. The meeting opened with the playing of the record of His voice in chant, and the motion picture taken while He was in America was shown, picturing His majestic Figure in characteristic action; greeting the many visitors and walking with firm and powerful step. Thus the friends were enabled to come as close as is now possible to the Person, the Perfect Man and Center of God’s Covenant Who wished to be known as the Servant of all.
So far as is known those from the area, now living, who met ‘Abdu’l-Bahá are: Marie Bohmann, Annamarie Baker, Clarence Davies, Monroe Ioas, George Loeding, Sophie Loeding, Elfie Lundberg, Annie Mattoon, Wilfred May, Sylvia Parmelee, Jessie Robinson, Lloyd Robinson, Margaret Sykes, Edna True. Isabelle Windust, and Florence Zmeskal.
Hands of the Cause Speak[edit]
The overflow audience of almost 400, who came from six nearby States, braving cold and storm, was given the added bounty of hearing dear and radiant Hand of the Cause William Sears who, with his wife Marguerite, was in Wilmette en route back to Africa. His sparkling wit, warm and loving eagerness to awaken in each one the desire to teach was dramatically brought to the audience by his words and graphic illustrations. The light of our faith must show in our faces, deeds, lives it we are to bring this great Message to others. It is as simple and yet profound as the turning on of an electric light bulb, bringing light to an otherwise dead looking piece of glass, he told the friends. And with a bulb, he illustrated the point, flashing it on and off with varying degrees of brilliance. Stating that in Africa there is a lion’s share of the Nine Year Plan to be accomplished he showed slides cleverly illustrating the point with pictures of lions. Marguerite spoke also, emphasizing ‘Abdul’-Bahá’s exhortation to us to teach and help people all over the world.
Hand of the Cause Mr. Khádem spoke briefly at the close, adding to the spirit of enthusiasm for serving, and closing the meeting with beautiful chanting of a prayer.
Exhibit, Music[edit]
There was an excellent exhibit, full of meaning to those who wish to come closer to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, showing some of His personal possessions and Tablets.
The Bahá’í Temple Area Chorus sang, perhaps even exceeding their always high standards and giving the songs composed by Shahnaz Waite, with her “Benediction” bringing this part of the evening to a beautifully fitting close.
With this feast of spiritual bounties was the Fast begun, that period in which “Thou hast endowed every hour of these days with special virtue inscrutable to all except Thee.” Surely with such impetus the victories for the Faith will be even greater.
Eighty people attended the 1967-68 Winter Youth school in York, England. Hands of the Cause of God, Mr. Faizi and Ferraby, participated, and a letter from the National Spiritual Assembly inspired many pioneering offers. During their stay in York, the youth were guests of the international club.
Man’s Purpose is Theme of New Zealand School[edit]
Over thirty people attended the summer school and special teaching drive at the goal town of New Plymouth, New Zealand. A number of visitors and inquirers came to the various sessions, nearly exhausting the supply of pamphlets of both the New Plymouth group and the teaching committee. About one-third of the school consisted of youth, who created a lively atmosphere.
Bahá’ís wore lapel tags in the town and these, together with advertising, a street sign, pamphlets in the doorway of the hall, window notices and the central situation (opposite the main Post Office) made a favorable impression on the town.
The well-advertised film, “A Lamp Unto My Feet,” was shown to an appreciative audience. The program included lectures and discussions on the theme, “Man’s Purpose in Life and in This Day.” It began with an analysis of certain crises that are contributing to chaos in the world and discussed the practical and spiritual, individual and social answers. An inquirer who dropped in on the Nine Year Plan session (“Building a World Community”) was struck by the practical and spiritual way of achieving peace and world development and announced her decision to become a Bahá’í. A youth, on return to her own area, later joined the Faith.
The hall featured a lovely display of posters by Edith Danielsen and Ian Cookson and flower arrangements by the local believers. Visual aids, charts and slides were greatly used. These included the Panama Conference, slides from around the world, an interesting and beautiful series on the “Kingdoms of Creation” by Richard Battrick (a youth) and a series on “Bahá’í Administration” drawn by a committee member and photographed by Bill Washington.
Local Spiritual Assembly of Wanganui elected April 1967. Seated, left to right: Mrs. Betty Weeks (sec’y.), Mrs. Anne Davies, Mrs. Myrtle Garrett, Miss Florence Whitcombe. Standing: Doug Weeks (vice-chairman), Jack Crysell (treasurer), Harry Davies, Ray Davies (chairman), and David Watkin.
Group of Bahá’ís at New Zealand summer school held at New Plymouth in January, 1968.
Bahá’ís attending the first session of the summer school at Yerrinbool, New South Wales, Australia, December 23-30, 1967.
Australian Summer School Held at Yerrinbool[edit]
Two one-week school sessions were held from December 23, 1967 to January 4, 1968. The near-capacity attendance at both sessions was notable for its large number of youth and children. Students came from as far away as Tasmania, Townsville, Perth, Fiji, Rabaul and California. Considering that so many had only recently traveled great distances to attend the Proclamation Conference, the number exceeded expectations.
Outstanding features of the school were: A new pattern for lectures and discussion taking the form of several series on different study themes; a youth choral group; special classes on pioneering; expression of the Word of God through music and the arts and the general creative capacities revealed by many of the friends.
Two of the courses were designed to give an opportunity to several individuals to present short talks and to answer questions. This participation series provided good experience for the speakers as well as general discussion on many subjects.
Other courses on progressive revelation, Bahá’í ethics and various aspects of Bahá’í administrative and teaching endeavors were given by Lorna Salter, Heshmat Eshraigian, Nigel Hall, John Davidson, John and Greta Lake, John Stevenson, Gina Garcia, Grenville Kirton, David Hoffman and Ursula Hall. Auxiliary Board members Thelma Perks and Margaret Rowling shared in describing “The Ministry of Bahá’u’lláh,” using God Passes By as their main reference. Music, slides and dramatic presentations were a major part of the learning activity.
The Passing of a Devoted Australian Believer[edit]
The Australian Bahá’í Community has been saddened by the death, on January 2, 1968, of one of the first Australian believers, Miss Effie Baker. She heard of the Faith from Mother and Father Dunn and accepted it in 1923. Soon afterwards she went on pilgrimage to Haifa and, at the request of Shoghi Effendi, remained there for eleven years, assisting with the work at the World Center.
During this time she travelled to Persia where, often encountering great difficulties and hardships, she photographed the places associated with the early history of the Faith. This priceless record is published in Nabíl’s Narrative: The Dawn-Breakers, in the opening pages of which Shoghi Effendi states his grateful acknowledgment to her for securing these photographs.
The last years of Effie Baker’s life were spent at the National Headquarters in Australia where her cheerful spirit and ready humor endeared her to all. Her funeral was attended by believers from all over Australia with burial in a cemetery near the Temple.
Upon hearing of her passing The Universal House of Justice cabled:
GRIEVED NEWS PASSING MISS EFFIE BAKER DEVOTED MAID-SERVANT BAHÁ’U’LLÁH HISTORIC SERVICES PARTICULARLY PHOTOGRAPHIC RECORD DAWN-BREAKERS UNFORGETTABLE. ASSURE LOVING PRAYERS SACRED THRESHOLD PROGRESS HER SOUL ABRA KINGDOM.
YUCATÁN CONFERENCE DRAWS ACTIVE MAYAN PARTICIPATION[edit]
“The spiritual conquest is limited only by the lack of sufficient pioneers to take the Message of Bahá’u’lláh to these spiritually receptive people.”
THIS WAS THE APPEAL from the early pioneers to Yucatán in a news story of January, 1966. It told of the efforts of the first teachers, Dr. and Mrs. Alejandro Cervantes, Mr. and Mrs. Lee Foster, and Mrs. Edna Ford, followed by Auxiliary Board member Artemus Lamb, Mrs. Dee Worth Lamb and Mrs. Valeria Nichols, member of the National Spiritual Assembly of Mexico. Recently Mrs. Mara O’Malley has joined them and resides in the newly opened Center in the capital city of Mérida. Now the Indian believers have answered the call to pioneer, opening new states, even going into other countries. Others teach actively in Yucatán. Opportunities expand daily and the inevitable consolidation needs present enormous challenges; but the spirit of the pioneer teachers is of a quality to lift the heart of anyone given a chance to participate even for a brief time in their efforts. Miss Susan Millet, leader of a youth project to Yucatán in the summer of 1967, arrived in January, 1968, and resides in the Institute Cultural Bahá’í-Martha Root, at Muna, built in 1964. A new youth project for girls is planned for 1968. The following pictures tell the story of the Muna Conference, February 4, 1968:
Auxiliary Board member Artemus Lamb (at left, below) stressed urgency of the present hour. Referring to past Mayan greatness, he said: “Now you have the opportunity to build an even more wonderful civilization — the New World Order of Bahá’u’lláh.” Don Celestino Sima Euán (first row right), Mayan representative to the Panama Conference, gave a stirring talk: “Teach, live the life, . .. In the past the teachers were the priests. Today none are especially designated. All must participate.”
Conference held at me Institute Cultural Bahá’í-Martha Root, Muna, Yucatan, Mexico, February 4, 1968, one of four national conferences held in Mexico consult on Proclamation needs. Don Jorgé Coronado. fifth from left, from row, first Mayan member of the National Spiritual Assembly of Mexico, served as chairman.
Photos below — first: “God is one, man is one, all the religions are one,” everyone sang happily in Spanish, accompanied by guitars, between discussion periods. Dee Worth Lamb, at extreme right, led the singing and also spoke on individual Bahá’í life, evoking thoughtful participation. Second: Maximiliano Cauich, first Mayan pioneer outside Mexico (to Belize), who spoke at conference. Third: Don Clemente Santos, who opened State of Colima in 1967; Antonio Salazar, active Mayan youth, who spoke on Proclamation. Other Mayan pioneers not present are Claro Jimenez in the State of Guerrero; Adan Zenen Pech, pioneering in Oaxca; and Marcelino Chin, in the State of Michoacan. Another pioneer, Roberto Canul, spent a year and a half in Quintana Roo.
Susan Millet (above) gave a dynamic talk on the influence of the Bahá’í Faith in society and the need to distinguish between politics and the Administrative Order. At right: lunch time, and (below) a brief siesta. Lower right: Mrs. Valeria Nichols, National Assembly member and pioneer teacher with the jeep (donatedy by intrepid pioneer Edna Ford), so indispensible in reaching remote villages over difficult roads. With her is Leonard Braun, visiting Bahá’í from Evanston, Illinois, who with Mrs. Eunice Braun accompanied Mrs. Nichols to open a new “hacienda” to the Faith.
AT LEFT: delicious tortillas being prepared in the kitchen in back of the Institute by Antónia, at right, with her helper. Below: Mayan women at the Institute, to whom smiling comes naturally. Center: bringing water from the well. The property is extensive, with room to build additional dormitories.
Leaders of Porto Alegre, Brazil Greet Hand of the Cause[edit]
Hand of the Cause of God ‘Amatu’l-Bahá Rúḥíyyih Khánum was welcomed by the friends in Porto Alegre, Brazil in a manner befitting her station in the Bahá’í Faith. She was greeted at the airport by dignitaries from the city and by members of various philanthropic and peace organizations. These organizations also sponsored a public meeting in the military hall of Porto Alegre, where three non-Bahá’í’s spoke on the principles of the Cause, afiirming the Bahá’í belief that unity and harmony among mankind is the remedy for the problems of today.
When Rúḥíyyih Khánum stood to address the audience she received a splendid ovation. Her talk was an historic occasion for the city and following the meeting she was interviewed for a half-hour television program.
Prior to her visit she received considerable publicity in newspapers as advisor and counselor for the indigenous, illiterate people of the tribes and to the forgotten and poverty-stricken campesino people.
News Briefs[edit]
A Bahá’í float participated in the parade on Three Kings Day, January 6, 1968, in Fredriksted, St. Croix, Virgin Islands. Traditionally a gala holiday for the Cruzians, it is a special day when young and old and visitors from near and far join the festivities, lining the streets to see the parade. Murmurs of “Bahá’í?” “What is Bahá’í?”, “I've heard of Bahá’í,” “I’ve seen the Bahá’í Temple in Wilmette,” could be heard as the float slowly made its way between the rows of people. The basic Bahá’í principles were displayed on large plaques on either side of the float, and above, the utterances of Bahá’u’lláh over the nine entrances to the Bahá’í Temple in Wilmette were mounted on a nine-sided form topped by a symbol that spelled “Unity.” The Bahá’ís of Christiansted and Fredriksted made possible this means of proclaiming the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh to throngs of people, not only Cruzians, but many from other lands as well.
Newspapers in Costa Rica have published several articles on the Bahá’í Faith, appearing in connection with the Panama Conference, the Birthday of Bahá’u’lláh and the Day of the Covenant. Public meetings for the last two events were well attended.
Bahá’í in the News[edit]
El Diario, widely read Bolivian newspaper, La Paz, Bolivia, published a half-page illustrated Proclamation article on the Faith in the main section of its Sunday edition January 28, 1968. In the eight-column spread the Faith was clearly explained with quotations from the Writings and the words of Queen Marie, Leo Tolstoy and Professor E. G. Browne and resumes of the Tablets to the rulers of the world. There were accompanying illustrations of Queen Marie, Count Leo Tolstoy and a photo of the Tomb of the Báb. Evoking the attention of readers and spread in caps across the page was the title, “UNA FE UNIVERSAL.”
ABOVE: Children’s classes in two of the Altiplano schools in Bolivia. These schools are cooperative projects with the local indigenous communities paying small monthly salaries. The spirit of these children inspires hope for a new generation of sturdy Bolivian pioneers. BELOW: Valentin Casas, ninet-year-old Bahá’í of Huancarani, La Paz, Bolivia, is assisting in the Bahá’í literacy program among the Bolivian campesinos.
Samoan Board Member Visits Australian States[edit]
Mr. Niuoleava Tuataga, a Samoan Bahá’í, visited New South Wales and Southern Australia following the Intercontinental Conference in Sydney. A dynamic and refreshing speaker, his lectures were a new experience for the many who came to hear. Following are the highlights of his visits:
In New South Wales, from November 25-December 4, 1967, he visited the towns of Orange, Parkes, Mudgee, Tamworth and Newcastle, accompanied by Brian Whitehead who presented the film, “And His Name Shall be One.” Sessions included firesides, social hours, speeches to Rotary and Junior Chamber of Commerce groups, radio interviews and talks and public meetings. Local radio stations and newspapers gave considerable coverage. A Tamworth newspaper published a lengthy article entitled, “The Focus is on — Bahá’í: The United Nations of Religion.”
Towns visited in South Australia were Port Adelaide, Murray Bridge, Meningie, Elizabeth and Gawler. Mr. Tuataga’s activities included an address in the Port Adelaide Town Hall, an appearance on a ten-minute television program dealing entirely with the Faith, firesides, addresses to the aborigine friends, to high school students and a brief, personal visit to Mrs. A. M. Rennie, mayor of Port Adelaide. In his talks he discussed the circumstances of his own acceptance of the Faith and the difficulties that followed, life in Samoa, education, and progressive revelation.
Local newspapers carried articles and photos of Mr. Tuataga and accompanying Bahá’ís. In Adelaide a four-minute interview with Mr. Tuataga was recorded for video-tape, based on the aboriginals and the Bahá’í approach to them and their problems. Two books on the Faith were presented to the producer of the program, who has shown keen interest in the Faith.
Malaita, near the Solomons, Responds to Call of Faith[edit]
In Malaita, in the South West Pacific Ocean, a group of villages has responded to the call of Bahá’u’lláh. In an area where a settlement of approximately one-hundred families has remained “pagan” in outlook despite the efforts of neighboring missions over many decades, more than half have espoused the Cause. This area on the island of Malaita, which lies centrally to the northwest of the Solomons, is on the lagoon route which is taken coastally to travel from Auki to Hauhui.
The National Spiritual Assembly of the South West Pacific Ocean states: “This sudden surge of attraction, particularly amongst a strong-minded, adventurous, as well as enterprising people may, if we can feed this flame and deepen their knowledge in time, spread along that whole coast leading to that other big community, hard-by our Bahá’í School.
“But not only have ‘pagan’ people responded with spirit, Catholics and Adventists have, in smaller numbers, joined the others as Bahá’ís . . . . Their community has started upon the work of building a Bahá’í center.
“Such an area previously might have been difficult to visit but with the arrival of the boat . . . we look forward to the realization of further victories.”
Proclamation in New Zealand[edit]
The Manukau City group tree planting ceremony was held as part of the Proclamation activities of the Bahá’ís of New Zealand. There were twenty-eight people present at the Grande Vue Rood Reserve, Manurewa, on Saturday, November 4, 1967 to welcome Mayor H. C. Lambie (center of photo, holding spade). The group included Auxiliary Board member H. Blundell and Doug Weeks, chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly. The Mayor expressed appreciation to the Bahá’ís for their generous gesture where plans had been made for a large-scale tree planting. He spoke of the Bahá’í principle of unifying the various peoples of the world: “We have in Manukau City many branches, many Polynesians, many people of all races,” he said. “It is my wish, my desire, and I know that it has your blessing, that they will become one family tree.”
Miss M. Furlaniche, fourth from left, is the first Italian in Trieste to accept the Faith. She is shown with the community of Trieste.
Faith Readies People of Italy in Many Ways[edit]
Bahá’ís of Perugia, Italy were hosts to forty-five interested persons at an observance of the birthday of Bahá’u’lláh in the Town Hall. There were posters showing Bahá’í principles and pictures of the various temples. A book display in several languages particularly attracted the interest of the guests.
Bahá’ís of Milan recently supplied a speaker to the Catholic Cultural Society and also showed slides of the Bahá’í World Center and the recent Intercontinental Conferences. This was followed by an invitation to the Bahá’ís to attend a meeting of the Society the next day where friendly relations were further extended with the speaker of the day who had visited the Bahá’í Shrines in the Holy Land.
Miss Fatheazam, pioneer in Anacapri, has reported that many firesides were held upon the occasion of the recent visit of Mr. and Mrs. Alai of Milan.
A newspaper reporter from Rome who had traveled through Irán wrote an article for his paper, Il Messagero, November 26, 1987, stating: “The Prophet of the 19th century taught, like Zarathustra (Zoroaster), purity of life, austerity, administrative reforms . . . and the equality of women. The Báb has been a missed opportunity in Persian history: he was killed after being made object of derision. Now it is to be hoped that the . . . people of Irán will be able to learn from the past . . . ”
Local Spiritual Assembly of Bali, Italy. elected April, 1967. First row, left to right: Gianni Brattoli, Rina Segreto, Marcello Bolsi. Second row: Mario Morano (chairman), Nella Mazzacano, Paola Bolsi, Lidia Bottalico (sec’y.), Franco Fratellini (vice-chairman), Rino Pappalettera (treasurer). The average age of this local assembly is twenty-four.
One of the posters used at the public conference in Perugia for the 150th anniversary of the Birth of Bahá’u’lláh.
Bahá’í in the News[edit]
Helmstäzdter Kreisblatt a German newspaper carried, on November 2, 1967, an article about the recently published Der Gespaltene Himmel (The Cleft Heaven), a book by Huschmand Sabet, a Bahá’í. Entitled “Devasting Critique to the Theologians” the writeup praises the style of the Persian author and says that the book could “very probably become the religious bestseller of the year.”
The book is described as giving a new method of evaluating the holy scriptures and citing ways in which those of Christianity agree with others. In summarizing its contents the article mentions the chapters on Islám and its influence in the West as well as those on the Bahá’í Faith, describing it as the youngest world religion. In conclusion the review states: “The comprehensive world picture as well as the abundance of interesting evidence which confront the reader on almost every page of this book, make it a source of pleasure even for a reader not primarily interested in religion.”
First Broadcast of Bahá’í Faith in Norway[edit]
The words of Bahá’u’lláh went out over the air waves to all of Norway for the first time recently. With radio and television closed to Bahá’ís, it was a great joy to have the Faith brought before the public of Norway by an authority on religious history, Professor Alf Kragerud. This came about when a Norwegian student at the University of Oslo, Harold Thiis, took as his thesis The Bahá’í Faith. Professor Kragerud, in order to become informed on the subject for Harold’s examination, read Bahá’í literature and attended firesides in Oslo. When asked to give a talk on the radio on the origin of religion, be included the Bahá’í Faith. Quotations from Gleanings and the prayer, “From the Sweet-Scented Streams” were beautifully rendered by professional actors.
The Norwegian Bahá’í winter school was held at the Svenkerud Hotel in Nesbyen, Norway from January 27-31, 1968. Two Auxiliary Board members, Modesta Hvide
of Norway and Ernest Gregory of England, contributed much to the program which highlighted the Laws of Bahá’u’lláh.
Local spiritual assembly goals for Norway in the Nine Year Plan. Cities underscored indicate assemblies already established.
Leif Berg of Oslo spoke on the subject, “Letters to the Kings,” which followed a presentation of “The Purpose of Proclamation,” by Gunnar Lange-Nielsen of Oslo. The closing day’s program dealt with “Covenant and Administration,” presented by Ernest Gregory.
During the past year travel teaching efforts, encouraged by The Universal House of Justice, brought ten teachers up over the Arctic Circle in Norway to Svolvaer on Lofoten Island. To hold assembly status for this northernmost Bahá’í outpost is one of Norway’s goals this year, along with the establishment of an assembly in Trondheim. All ten teachers assisted in Trondheim, and six made the complete circuit of communities as well.
The distance from south to north in Norway is approximately 2,500 miles. One can imagine the time, energy and money necessary to carry on teaching activities in the “long country” of the North.
Those who visited over the Arctic Circle were John and Vera Long from England, Laura Smithson from Carmel, Calif., Modesta Hvide, Auxiliary Board member from Bergen, Norway, Harold Thiis, Gerd Strand and Sigrid Cutler from Oslo, Ernest Gregory, Auxiliary Board member from England, Amelia Bowman from Stavanger and Svanhild Anderson from U.S.A. Mrs. Beatrice Ashton of the U.S.A. visited Bergen and Oslo and gave excellent talks on administration.
Pioneers as well as travelling teachers are vital to the accomplishment of the goal of five additional assemblies by 1973—Trondheim, Lillehammer, Bodo, Narvik and Tromso.
Robert Boisson, Mayor of Monaco, at left, addressing the Proclamation Congress in Monaco November 10-12, 1967, accompanied by Louis Henuzet of the Belgian National Spiritual Assembly and Auxiliary Board member Mr. Navidi.
Mayor Opens Bahá’í Congress in Monaco[edit]
The Proclamation Congress, held November 10-12, 1967, was the first official manifestation of the Bahá’í Faith in the Principality of Monaco since its recognition as a Religious Association on April 17, 1967.
Through the efforts of Auxiliary Board member Mr. Navidi, the opening reception was held in the Palais des Congres de Monaco. Thirty-two distinguished guests from Monaco attended, as well as seventy-five Bahá’ís from Monaco, France, Belgium, Italy and Irán. The Mayor of Monaco opened the Congress. His address revealed considerable knowledge of the Faith and admiration for its aims. Two persons delegated by Radio-Monte-Carlo interviewed Messrs. Henuzet and Navidi. The interview was broadcast the following day at 12 a.m. An account of the reception was published in the Nice-Matin on Sunday, November 12, the chief editor of the paper having attended.
On Saturday, November 11, study sessions were held and talks were given on “The Book of Certitude,” “Mankind and Religion” and “The Meaning of the Covenant.”
On Sunday the commemoration of the Birth of Bahá’u’lláh was celebrated, with a talk on the Bahá’í view of the resurrection of Christ.
Public conferences were held both evenings, with approximately 150 guests attending. Three declarations were made as a result of the Congress and the goal town of Annecy, France was opened to the Faith. L’Espoir, the local evening paper, published a long article on this event, giving excerpts from the mayor’s speech and summaries of the two public conferences.
World Religion Day meeting in the Town Hall of Manchester, England, January 16, 1968. The Lord Mayor of Manchester opened the meeting. She expressed her thanks to the Bahá’ís for their cooperation in charity work and invited them to attend a reception at the Mayor’s Parlor. Dr. Farhang Jahanpour, chairman of the meeting, is seated between the Lord Mayor and the Lady Mayoress. Sixty people attended.
Bahá’ís in U.S. Honor World Religion Day[edit]
“Bahá’í World Religion Day Program declared success” (Ledger-Gazette, Lancaster) and “Religion Day Hailed As Success” (Antelope Valley Press, Lancaster) were the headlines describing the intercommunity musical program of Antelope J.D. and Newhall J.D. held in its goal city, Palmdale, California. A near capacity crowd, in excess of 400 persons, filled the community hall at Courson Park on January 21 at 2:30 p.m.
Sing Out — Antelope Valley Group Makes Debut[edit]
The program was highlighted by the debut appearance of the Sing Out-Antelope Valley singing group. The group, composed of high school and college students, was received enthusiastically and with thunderous applause that built up progressively after each number to a standing ovation at its completion. Bettie Bucaro, Ledger-Gazette Staff Writer, had this to say about the group: “Youthful enthusiasm is being channeled through the group in a constructive outlet which is contagious. Their excitement is communicated overwhelmingly to the audience which responds with jubilation.” The group sang such songs as “Up With People,” “What Color Is God’s Skin?” and “Freedom Isn’t Free.”
After the Sing Out-AV musical program, Harold Jackson of Gardena (California) spoke on the World Religion Day theme. Jackson pointed out to his audience that God has always provided mankind with guidance. He went on to explain that the people of God come from many paths, and we must all realize that there is only one Race — the Human Race.
Public information representative Reuben Busby was the master of ceremonies; the program was opened with a prayer for America by Dell L. Falls, Honorary Mayor of Lancaster and chairman of the Antelope Valley Assembly. Following the program, those attending were served refreshments.
As a followup, a public meeting was held in Palmdale at the American Savings and Loan Association Building that night.
The Communities were successful in obtaining two Mayor’s proclamations — one from Lawrence W. Chimbale, Mayor of the City of Palmdale and one from Dell L. Falls, Honorary Mayor of the City of Lancaster.
Bach Festival Held[edit]
The Bahá’ís of Santa Monica (California) celebrated World Religion Day by sponsoring a “Miniature Bach Festival.” Several Bach enthusiasts were attracted to the Festival as a result of reading the newspaper announcement.
Fireside Observances[edit]
Challis (Idaho) Bahá’í Group observed World Religion Day by sponsoring a fireside at the home of the Fulkersons. The speaker for the occasion was Mrs. Loevia Hockley. Other fireside observances were held in the communities of Stoughton (Wisconsin) and Everett (Washington).
Chicago Mayor Richard J. Daley reads proclamation naming January 21, 1968 as World Religion Day. With him at his City Hall Office are members of the Chicago Bahá’í Community, left to right: David W. Kellum, chairman; Miss Huelene Bishop, Mrs. Myrtle Wendler, vice chairman; Mrs. Kathelynea Kellum.
Tour to House of Worship Offered High School Students[edit]
A last-minute-test program, sponsored by the Bahá’ís of Waukesha County, Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, of a special tour to the House of Worship honoring World Religion Day proved to be an astounding success. According to Jim Beasley, public information representative of N.E. Waukesha County, the project comprised a free bus trip to the House of Worship for as many area American Field Service (AFS) High School students as were interested. This was planned at the last minute to test the response, which was tremendous, and possibly lay the groundwork for an annual trip in observance of World Religion Day. He went on to explain that after the conducted tour and service, the slightly shy students en route became the seemingly instantaneous friends going back to Menomonee Falls. The group of over 50 guests was treated to dinner by the Bahá’ís of Greenfield and then enjoyed a record dance. Questions asked by all the young people at the House of Worship and during the social indicated they were very interested in the Faith.
Beasley had this to say about the project: “Our test program worked out so well that we would strongly urge other communities to look into this plan. World Religion Day provides a most reasonable excuse to take students from all over the world to see the House of Worship of the new World Religion.” In conclusion, he cited this interesting note. “One AFS parent politely refused the trip explaining that the U.S. brother of the
foreign student would be graduating on that date and the family was scheduled to attend the ceremonies. A few days later the parent called back and said that they had decided that it was more important for the AFS student to see the Bahá’í House of Worship than see his brother graduate from high school. This is a typical example of the highly favorable response we received to the tour and the mention of the Bahá’í Faith.”
Signing the World Religion Day Proclamation is Governor Warren E. Hearnes of Missouri. Looking on are, left to right: William Munson, Mrs. Mary Ruth Spicer, Vahid Hedayati, and Badiollah Eshranghi, chairman Kansas City Assembly.
Mayor Robert Biederman of Gault, California signs Proclamation.
Other Communities Report[edit]
A pageant of religions was presented by the Bahá’ís of Pacifica (California). The pageant consisted of two off-stage voices that told something of each religion. Stage figures were dressed in the costume of the original country and period. Bob Philips gave the prologue and closed the pageant with a prayer.
Several potlucks were held in observance of World Religion Day. A dinner meeting at the Copper Kettle Restaurant, Northbrook (Minnesota) Shopping Center was sponsored by the Bahá’ís of Rochester. Following the dinner, Dr. Farzin Davachi, a medical specialist at the University of Minnesota addressed the audience. Also, sponsored jointly by the Bahá’í Student Association at the University of California at Davis and the Bahá’ís of Davis, a potluck dinner was held for the Clerius of Davis, the local ministerial association. William Rosenthal, treasurer of the Davis Assembly, addressed the group. And the Bahá’ís of Portland (Maine) held a potluck luncheon at the Bahá’í Center followed by a public meeting at the YWCA. The well attended observance concluded with a social and fireside at the home of the Hoovers.
Through the facilities of the University of New Mexico radio station KUNM-FM in cooperation with the Bahá’ís of Albuquerque, a program of readings honoring World Religion Day was broadcast. A follow-up public meeting was held at the home of Dr. Cyrus Omid-Varan. Kenneth Gibson, chairman of the University of New Mexico Bahá’í Student Association, was the discussion leader at the meeting.
Makah Reservation Bahá’í Community observed World Religion Day by visiting various churches in the Neah Bay (Washington) village. The reception was cordial and, when the purpose of the visit was announced, one minister commented that he had read about this happening in other places and expressed delight that it was happening in Neah Bay. The Assembly plans to utilize this successful venture by making it the first step in its Proclamation program.
A similar visit of community churches was made by the Bahá’ís of Central Marin J. D. (California). At five of the services, Bahá’ís spoke to the congregation on the Faith. One minister read the Unity Prayer from the pulpit, and eight other ministers acknowledged the Day, the idea and the Bahá’ís.
It was a “Miracle!” quoting Mrs. Susan Porch, public information representative of Hillsborough County. She said “For the first time in nine years of submitting articles to the Tampa Tribune, the World Religion Day article was printed.” Dr. Hippchen, associate professor of criminology and corrections at the Florida State University, was the speaker for the occasion.
In order to reach the Mexican-Americans, the Pismo Beach (California) Community held its observance in Spanish. This was the first meeting of a series being conducted by the Community to teach the Mexican-Americans.
Mayors’ Proclamations were obtained by the Communities of Davis, Galt, Grass Valley and Nevada City, California; Chicago, Illinois; Battle Creek, Michigan; Kansas City, Missouri; Monona, Wisconsin, and possibly many more not yet reported.
Brief reports of public meeting observance: have come from Burbank, Palm Springs, Victor J. D., Central Sonoma Co. J. D., Fresno, Pismo Beach, Grass Valley, Grass Valley J. D., Nevada City, Nevada City J. D. and Culver J. D., California; Scottsdale and Tucson, Arizona; Key West, Ft. Myers and Lee County, Florida; Mayaguez, Puerto Rico; Silver Spring and Baltimore, Maryland; Butte and Billings, Montana; Asheville, N.C.; Toledo and Urbana, Ohio; Portsmouth and Peterborough, New Hampshire; North Plainfield, New Jersey; Ballston Spa and Niagara Falls, New York; Omaha, Nebraska; Maywood and Chicago, Illinois; Swarthmore, Pennsylvania; Flint, Michigan; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Corvallis, Oregon; La Porte, El Paso and Odessa, Texas; Seattle, Washington and Wauwatosa, Wisconsin.
According to reports received, over 1,300 column inches of gratis publicity in 107 newspapers was received on the observances; about two-and a half hours of radio time was donated, and several displays were placed in stores and libraries.
The Belgium summer school, with Auxiliary Board member Lea Nys, was held at the ‘Hirondelle in Oteppe beginning August 15, 1967. Over 200 persons from seventeen countries attended. With the Proclamation as its theme the ten-day school included study sessions, consultation, dramatic presentations and songs and prayers, climaxed by a unity banquet which surpassed all expectations. A Flemish talk in the heart of Wallonie, given at one of the public meetings, was a unique experience.
Belgian Bahá’ís Sponsor Itinerant Exhibition[edit]
In order to reach a wider audience during the Proclamation period, The Bahá’ís of Belgium organized an itinerant exhibition. Held in Brussels at the Maison de la Presse from October 3 to 23, 1967, the exhibits included large photographs concerning Bábi and Bahá’í history, 19th century books referring to the Faith, Bahá’í pamphlets, news bulletins and books in many languages and graphs and posters explaining the principal tenets of the Faith. Hands of the Cause Mr. Haney and Dr. Mühlschlegel addressed the audience and the movie “And His Name Shall Be One” was shown. The exhibition was visited by some 2,500 persons, of whom 400 left their addresses for further information. Three visitors declared themselves as Bahá’ís.
After Brussels, the exhibition toured the other Bahá’í communities of Liege, Ghent, Antwerp, Charleroi, and will shortly be shown in The Hague, The Netherlands.
News Briefs[edit]
A Bahá’í speaker appeared on Dutch television on January 18. This is the first time the Faith has been presented on television here, making it an historic first for Holland.
The youth of Poona, India, have arisen with unprecedented vigor and enthusiasm to teach the Faith in and around Poona. They have visited several villages, spoken at schools and were permitted to address an audience of over 1,000 people who were attending an open air movie.
At Taichung Normal University in Taiwan, Professor Hong, secretary to the President of the University, invited Bahá’ís to speak to his classes, which included about 120 students. Different aspects of the Faith were presented and there were questions afterward.
The Bahá’ís on Oahu, Hawaii, Celebrated Human Rights Day by holding a public meeting at the National Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds on December 10, 1967, at 8 p.m. Dr. Richard Bauman gave a talk on “The Bahá’í View of Human Rights” to a gathering of approximately thirty five people, followed by refreshments and fellowship.
CORRECTION
BÁHÁ’í NEWS, February, 1968, page 5. Legend identifying photo at upper right should read: “Mr. Samandari and his son . . .”
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; Mr. Rexford C. Parmelee.
Material must be received by the twenty-fifth of the second month preceding date of issue. Address: Bahá’í News Editorial Office, 112 Linden Avenue. Wilmette, Illinois 60091. U.S.A
Change of address should be reported directly to National Bahá’í Office, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette. Illinois, U.S.A. 60091.
Changes received by the 15th of the month will take effect in the next month’s mailing.
