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No. 477

BAHA’I YEAR 127

DECEMBER, 1970

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O Ye Dwellers in the Highest Paradise! Proclaim unto the children of assurance that within the realms of holiness, nigh unto the celestial paradise, a new garden hath appeared, round which circle the denizens of the realm on high and the immortal dwellers of the exalted paradise. Strive, then, that ye may attain that station, that ye may unravel the mysteries of love from its wind-flowers and learn the secret of divine and consummate wisdom from its eternal fruits. Solaced are the eyes of them that enter and abide therein! ~The Hidden Words of Bahá’u’lláh, Persian 18~

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HAND OF THE CAUSE OF GOD ENOCH OLINGA VISITS THE AMERICAS

In Yucatán ...

The beloved Hand of the Cause Mr. Enoch Olinga arrived in Mérida, Yucatán on July 24 and was met at the airport by many believers, some of whom had come over a thousand miles to see him. He was interviewed by three reporters and a two column article appeared the next day in the Diario del Sureste and another in the newspaper Novedades. This was the first occasion on which a Bahá’í had been interviewed in Mérida by the press.

To make the most of the precious twenty-four hours which Mr. Olinga could spend in the country, there was a meeting for the friends from the south in the Bahá’í Institute Martha Root, in Muna, and a second meeting the same evening in the Regional Teaching Bahá’í Center in Komchen in the north.

Despite a torrential storm shortly before the time for the meeting at Muna, many believers attended and rejoiced in the bounty of meeting this beloved Hand of the Cause.

Among the unforgettable words he spoke were those referring to the great Bahá’í teacher and Hand of the Cause, Miss Martha Root, for whom the Institute had been named. He said that she was exceptional because she was all of three things: a heroine, a saint, and a martyr. He said that a hero is one who accomplishes the impossible; a saint one who leads a saintly life; and a martyr one who give his life to the Faith and sacrifices his station for that of the Will of Bahá’u’lláh. Not many, he said, have attained these three things.

The meeting at Komchen was delayed because of the storm, nevertheless more than forty Bahá’í adults as well as many youth and children were waiting to greet Mr. Olinga when he arrived.

As he talked to the friends he spoke of the possibilities that the very young children present could in the future become pioneers to carry the Message of Bahá’u’lláh all over the world, even to Africa. As during the previous hours, in Muna or in the journeys to and from, his great love and spirit as well as words conveyed the importance of the divine attributes which should be reflected in our lives. Our thoughts should be constantly pure and directed towards Bahá’u’lláh. When, later, a Bahá’í from Komchen was asked what had impressed him most he replied, “He told us that we must love the believers in other religions,” as though this had now become a reality to him.

In Muna Mr. Olinga spoke of the great war going on now in the world, the war between good and evil, light and ignorance, and he said that the Bahá’ís are members of the Army of Light so all must fight very hard. In Komchen he spoke more concerning the example the Army of Light must give to the world.

The following morning Bahá’ís gathered again at the airport for one last moment with their honored guest, grateful to Bahá’u’lláh for the blessing of this visit which had filled all the hearts with the warmth and inspiration of his presence.

Hand of the Cause Enoch Olinga in Bolivia. Above: He tries the native altiplano pre-Columbian instrument, the guena. The Bahá’í band is shown in the background.

In Jamaica ...

On the 2nd of August, Enoch Olinga arrived at the Palisadoes Airport, and was welcomed to the island by members of the National Spiritual Assembly, representatives of the Kingston Bahá’í Community, and Auxiliary Board member, Dr. W. M. Tucker.

That evening Mr. Olinga spoke at a public meeting, and later met with the National Spiritual Assembly. He extended to the Assembly the greetings of the Universal House of Justice.

The next few days started with a radio and television interview, and later was followed by a public meeting in Mat Pen where four people accepted the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh. The next day began with a call on the Mayor of Kingston, Counsellor E. G. Barrett, who extended a warm welcome to Mr. Olinga, and was told of the meaning of the terms “Hand of the Cause” and “The Universal House of Justice.” That same day, Mr.

[Page 3] Olinga spoke to the Lions Club and greeted them from the Lions Club of Africa. He explained the aims and principles of the Bahá’í Faith, and mentioned that the Lions previous motto; “One Race—The Human Race” was in accordance with Bahá’í teachings. His speech brought whole-hearted response from the members of the Club. Another public meeting closed the day.

In Montego Bay, the other major city in Jamaica, Mr. Olinga gave the message of Bahá’u’lláh to a large group of diverse people, and had the bounty of greeting thirteen of them into the Bahá’í Faith. The first to embrace the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh was an individual who belonged to a small local religious sect, and who had, previous to the meeting, tried to create a disturbance. The meeting had been announced throughout the city by a loud-speaker truck, and the owner of the vehicle was so impressed that he offered his services free of charge to the Bahá’ís in the future.

When Mr. Olinga left on the evening of August 7th, the friends who accompanied him to the airport were saddened at his departure; yet richer because of his visit.

In Nashville, Tennessee ...

Almost 150 Bahá’ís were present to hear Mr. Olinga speak. They came from Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, Alabama, North Carolina, Florida, Illinois, Arkansas, and Tennessee. With Mr. Paul Pettit as Chairman, Mr. Olinga talked that afternoon on many subjects and told the friends stories about his travels, and about the Bahá’ís throughout the world. He was delightful to listen to as his love and humor poured forth continually. He involved those present in a great deal of singing and participation through asking them questions, and letting them make inquiry on various subjects. He mentioned the need for pioneers to Africa and eight people offered to leave to pioneer. Mr. Olinga was delighted, and referred these selfless souls to the proper assemblies and committees.

Glimpses of Enoch Olinga’s visit to Nashville, Tennessee

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In New York ...

The New York Assembly underestimated the number of Bahá’ís who would travel long distances to hear Mr. Olinga. Carloads of believers came from Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, Connecticut, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island, and some from as far away as Chicago flew in for the meeting. The small hall was packed with people drawn to the “City of the Covenant” to hear this precious person speak to the believers.

Mr. Olinga spoke for one and one-half hours, but most people felt it was an all-too-brief few moments. He began by asking everyone “Are you happy?” and had the group sing for a little while. He then spoke of the condition of happiness, and how important it is for us to be happy in this day. He illustrated his speech with stories of the believers in Central and South America who realize the significance of this era and who show this by acts of sacrifice.

All listened in rapt attention and afterward all wanted to express to him their love and appreciation.

Later, it was discovered that Mr. John Birks “Dizzy” Gillespie was playing at a club in Harlem, and the group went to visit him. “Dizzy” was delighted to meet Mr. Olinga, and dedicated to him a song he had composed about the Late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. He asked Mr. Olinga to rise, and introduced him to the audience who applauded him and welcomed him most kindly. It was a beautiful event. Dizzy Gillespie, a giant in the musical world, playing for his African Brother a tribute to a black American, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who was also a spiritual giant, and a martyr in the cause of harmony and peace among men. As Hand of the Cause of God Mr. Olinga left, he stopped at the stage and they embraced lovingly, and Mr. Olinga said that he hoped to see “Dizzy” soon in Africa. He then left for Chicago, and the Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette.

In Wilmette ...

In the Foundation Hall of the Bahá’í House of Worship, more than 350 people came to hear Hand of the Cause of God Mr. Olinga. Many of them drove long distances on the rainy night of October 8th. Present also was Hand of the Cause of God Mr. Zikru’lláh Khádem, whose chanting in Persian added greatly to the spiritual atmosphere of the occasion.

As he had done on previous occasions, Mr. Olinga opened his talk by asking: “Are you happy?” “Are you really happy?” then he invited the friends to join in singing a Bahá’í song. Some of the highlights of his talk follow:

Happiness is one of the greatest spiritual virtues to be found in the world. It is not possible to be happy without loving God and this means that we must first know Him, and knowledge of Him is a heavenly bestowal. But knowledge of Him is not enough, we must believe in Him and His Manifestations. Bahá’ís are one because they believe in Bahá’u’lláh, the Manifestation for this day. Many people admire the Bahá’ís because of their belief.

Man’s first duty is to recognize the Manifestation of God for this day. His station is higher than that of anyone on earth. When one recognizes the Manifestation, he must become familiar with His will, His laws and His Teachings. When we say we believe we should realize that we have arrived at this point through the Grace of God, and must strive to cultivate the qualities this belief requires.

Happiness comes from belief in God, faith in His Manifestations, observance of His laws, and service.

The Bahá’ís have many gifts from God. The greatest is that of teaching. Teaching is the magnet that attracts souls and Bahá’u’lláh has promised to aid and confirm those who arise to teach.

Mr. Olinga brought greetings from the friends in Africa. He spoke with special love about Hand of the Cause Mr. Músá Banání, who was the first to respond to the Guardian’s call to open Africa. When he and his family went there twenty years ago, there was only one regional National Spiritual Assembly and a few scattered Bahá’ís, in sharp contrast with the present numbers. The Guardian called Mr. Banání “The Conqueror of Africa,” “The Lion of Africa.” Mr. Olinga said Mr. Banání has great spiritual strength that belies his very frail health, and that he sends to the friends his love and greetings and prayers. He also brought greetings from the Universal House of Justice and from the beloved Guardian himself who told Mr. Olinga, thirteen years ago, shortly before his passing: “When you go to America, give my love to all the friends.”

Mr. Olinga also spoke of the work of the pioneers everywhere, and asked that the believers remember them in their prayers.

Then he told about the rapid growth of the Faith in the Deep South of the United States where the believers are finding many people waiting for Bahá’u’lláh. All they need to do is to offer to these ready souls the Message as they would a gift to a king, and wait for them to accept it for the love of God. When they say they believe then they are told: “If you believe, then you are a Bahá’í, and you are invited to join us.” The friends in the South ask for prayers for they must not slow down their teaching. Every place in the world is just as ready for the message.

In closing Mr. Olinga appealed to all the friends to support the goals of the Nine Year Plan and the Bahá’í Fund, and to live the Bahá’í life. “Love and Service,” he said, “are the highest qualities of the Bahá’í.

In Jackson, Mississippi ...

One hundred and eleven Bahá’ís from seventeen localities gathered at the Hotel Heidelberg in Jackson, Mississippi on October 20, 1970, for one of the most inspiring events in several months — the visit of Hand of the Cause Enoch Olinga. Six communities, including the Choctaw Indian group, reported full attendance.

After the friends were introduced by localities to Mr. Olinga, he presented greetings from the Bahá’ís in South America, Central America, the Caribbean Islands and the Universal House of Justice. He spoke of reliance upon God as essential in living and particularly in teaching. He urged the friends to be “evanescent —

[Page 5] humble” when offering the gift of the Faith to people. “A servant bows before the king and waits until he is recognized before offering his gift. We must induce people to accept the gift of the Faith.”

Mr. Olinga pointed out that in reality “man has become ugly with materialism and we must enable everyone to immerse himself in the ocean of God’s love.”

He reminded the audience that “the first requirement of a Bahá’í teacher is to say ‘I am nothing’. The love we express; power we feel; our knowledge, wisdom are not ours. They are conferred by Bahá’u’lláh. To believe with complete sincerity that Bahá’u’lláh is King of Glory, the Awaited, Promised One, King of these days, Manifestation of highest attributes — to be the embodiments of devotion, to have the love of the Lord in one’s heart — such a one who arises with trust and firmness, even if the world arises against him, he will be victorious because our strength is the strength of Bahá’u’lláh.” Here Mr. Olinga paid tribute to Músá Banání “whom the Guardian called lion of the Cause of God in Africa. Though ill and advanced in age he has been a mighty spiritual giant — a reed, a clear channel for the Faith. Despite feebleness, he is supplicating, meditating, and in constant thought of the friends throughout the globe. Mr. Banání sent warmest greetings to all the friends whom Mr. Olinga might visit.

Most of the believers gathered at the nearby YWCA for supper together and then returned for the evening session which began with informal singing. Mr. Olinga enjoyed the music very much and said it reminded him of the African Bahá’ís. He recalled an African song introduced previously by an African Bahá’í now living in New York City.

In the evening session Mr. Olinga answered questions and spoke of the teaching work in Africa, emphasizing the importance of keeping all aspects of growth in process, that is mass teaching, extension teaching, consolidation and deepening must go forward at all times. He encouraged us to overcome our hesitation regarding spontaneous declarations by saying “Everyone has the right to say ‘I believe’. It is not possible to judge others’ beliefs. The great hall of belief has two doors, one for entering, the other for leaving. We should not act for God. Intellectual knowledge can be mistaken for faith. Charity can be mistaken for faith. We cannot judge this. We must nurture, protect, assist the new believers, until they can help themselves and others. This requires hard work and patience and the Beloved Guardian said we must pray for our own patience in this work. Through our love for each other we pray for each other. We have the chain of intercession that knowledge and faith and devotion be increased. Bahá’u’lláh must become Ruler of their hearts — this is the crucial issue. As the Manifestations were patient with the people while waiting to be accepted, we must pray for patience.”

It was truly inspiring to see many youth in attendance and surely all returned to their homes uplifted by the presence of Hand of the Cause Enoch Olinga.

With the friends in Jackson, Mississippi.

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LE LOC TALKS OF VICTORIES IN VIETNAM

Mr. Le Loc visits the House of Worship in Wilmette. Shown, left to right: Mrs. Betsy Haynes, Mrs. Eileen Norman, Mr. Le Loc, Hand of the Cause Zikru’lláh Khádem, Miss Charlotte Linfoot, assistant secretary National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States, Mrs. Lorana Kerfoot, secretary of National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the Leeward, Windward and Virgin Islands; Mrs. Javidukht Khádem, Auxiliary Board member; Glenford Mitchell, secretary National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States.

On Friday, September 25, 1970, Mr. Le Loc, Chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Vietnam, spoke at a public meeting held in Foundation Hall at the House of Worship. He gave an inspiring talk on the rapid Bahá’í growth that Vietnam has experienced in the past few years. From 46,000 at Riḍván in 1968 to 52,000 in 1969, and then to 95,000 in 1970. This last figure includes about 23,000 Mountagnards who are the indigenous people of the central highlands and who do not speak Vietnamese. His description of life in Vietnam added new emphasis to these figures. Lacking many of the resources which the American believers have, the Vietnamese Bahá’ís must endure great hardships and danger to spread the Word of Bahá’u’lláh to the waiting masses. Sometimes Bahá’í youth in Vietnam will be walking to a village where there is no public transportation, and will be caught in the crossfire between two armies. One such youth who was wounded in this way was visited in the hospital by the Bahá’ís of Saigon to “share his suffering” only to find that he was happy and was impatient to be out of the hospital so that he could continue teaching the Faith. Such sacrifice of time, energy, and material resources by the youth of Vietnam is a shining example to the entire Bahá’í population.

Mr. Le Loc told how the Bahá’í Faith was outlawed by the Diem Regime in 1953, and how seven months later, when the government toppled, was reinstated in good standing. Mr. Le Loc himself was involved in seeing that the new Constitution of South Vietnam made mention of a Supreme Being. Since that time, the relations between the Vietnamese government and the Bahá’ís have been most cordial and a bit unusual.

In Vietnam, religions are largely supported by the government. Thus, when the Bahá’ís refuse, politely, each year the large offers of money, it gives the believers a special spirit which is resulting in almost total participation in the fund. Vietnamese families are encouraged to donate a penny a day to the fund, and many raise an extra plot of ‎vegatables vegetables‎ to sell and donate to the fund.

Because the Bahá’í Faith is the only religion in the country which is not receiving money from the government, and also has steadfastly refused to take sides on political issues, a great deal of trust has been developed. The government is assured that the Bahá’ís are teaching religion and not communism, and the Viet-Cong realize that the Bahá’ís are involved in spreading the Bahá’í Faith rather than in military activities.

Mr. Le Loc was ‎adament adamant‎ in stressing the importance that the United States has in all the future international arrangements of all countries in the world. He said that all nations, especially Vietnam, are watching to see if unity can be established here. He said that if the American Bahá’ís could make this country into a heavenly place, that all the world would follow. He went on to say that all the governments of the world, and the people also, realize that wars will not produce better condition for mankind. Only the Bahá’í Faith is the “better way.” He said that the knowledge that war is not good, is not enough because neither side in any dispute knows how to stop the war. He stressed that only if the American Bahá’ís, by their efforts, bring the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh to the attention of the world, can the endless cycle of warfare ‎he be‎ brought to a halt.

Mr. Le Loc said many other things; how the women in Vietnam are very happy to see how active American women are in the Faith; and how glad the Vietnamese are to feel a part of a unified world society and to see pictures of other Bahá’ís in the BAHÁ’Í NEWS. He gave us the love of the Bahá’ís in La Paz, Bolivia, where he had just visited, and said that he has felt such love from the Bahá’ís from every country that it is as if he has never left his family. He asked the American friends for their prayers on behalf of his country, and again said that by spreading the Faith here, we were working toward world peace.

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Green Acre School Dedicated to a Hand of the Cause

“He is like pure gold. That is why he is acceptable in any market, and is current in every country.”

—‘Abdu’l-Bahá

August 26th marked a memorable occasion in Bahá’í summer activities, when approximately three hundred friends gathered at Green Acre to participate in the dedication of the two children’s buildings to the loving memory of Beloved Hand of the Cause of God, Louis Gregory.

Hand of the Cause Mr. Zikru’lláh Khádem assisted in the dedication services, as did two of the Auxiliary Board members, Mrs. Katherine McLaughlin and Mrs. Javidukht Khádem.

A memorial service was held at the graveside of Louis Gregory which is located less than a mile from Green Acre. Mrs. Nancy Jordan drew spirits together with a prayer; Robert Henderson shared with the group the unforgettable cable sent to the Bahá’í world by Shoghi Effendi at the passing of Louis Gregory:

“Profoundly deplore grievous loss of dearly beloved, noble-minded, golden-hearted Louis Gregory, pride and example to the Negro adherents of the Faith. Keenly feel loss of one so loved, admired and trusted by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Deserves rank of first Hand of the Cause of his race. Rising Bahá’í generation in African continent will glory in his memory and emulate his example ... (Cable August 6, 1951) —Shoghi Effendi

Hearts were touched, spirits soared and rededication passed from heart to heart as Beloved Hand of the Cause, Mr. Khádem chanting a prayer, circumambulated the grave site and with loving hands placed two rose buds on the grave of Louis and his faithful wife, Louise.

Back at Green Acre, the dedication of the schools proceeded with a prayer offered by Philip Christenson, followed by Mrs. Khádem explaining the station of the Hands of the Cause of God. Mr. Khádem cheered all hearts with stories gleaned from the lifetime of Mr.

School at Green Acre dedicated to the memory of Hand of the Cause Louis Gregory.

Gregory which emphasized the courage, the vision, and the quality and beauty of the life of this godly man.

At this point in the scheduled program, Mrs. Katherine McLaughlin with the children were to hand the decorative sign indicating that the buildings — Arts and Crafts and Lucas Cottage — were henceforth dedicated to the memory of Louis Gregory but nature thought otherwise. Rain came pouring down and everyone rushed inside to behold the results of a true labor of love. The children had worked all summer with paint and scrub brushes and the cottages had been transformed into a scene of beauty. Delectable refreshments were served and the friends transferred to Bahá’í Hall to complete the dedication.

Mrs. McLaughlin, surrounded by the happy faces of many children, held high the sign to be placed in front of the buildings.

A concert ended the dedication with Larry Duffy at the piano, entertaining with exquisite tones. Michael Gramlich played folk music on his guitar telling stories through them that Louis Gregory would have loved.

Louis Gregory was given a spiritual mission during his pilgrimage when ‘Abdu’l-Bahá said to him: “Go forth and speak the Cause of God. Visit the friends. Gladden their hearts. You will be the means of guidance to many souls. The Divine Bounties will be with you. You are always on my mind and heart.”

Newly designed memorial for Hand of the Cause Louis Gregory and his wife Louise at Eliot, Maine.

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AWARDS LUNCHEON CLIMAXES INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION YEAR OBSERVANCES

The 1970 Louis G. Gregory Award for Service to Humanity was presented to the Children’s Television Workshop, and to Dr. James L. Olivero at a gala luncheon at the Statler-Hilton Hotel in New York City on October 17, 1970. The Award Luncheon was attended by 250 people including members of United Nations Delegations and was the highlight event of the International Education Year observance being sponsored by the North American Bahá’í Office for Human Rights.

Mr. Whitney M. Young, Jr., Executive Director of the National Urban League was the principal speaker at the luncheon, and spoke on “Education for the 70’s.” He praised the Bahá’í Faith for its work in the human rights field, and for being a religion that lived up to its ideals. Miss Hazel Scott, pianist and singer, and Bahá’í, entertained at the luncheon. Mrs. Mildred R. Mottahedeh was Mistress of Ceremonies. Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh, Chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States, presented the Louis G. Gregory Award to the Children’s Television Workshop. Accepting the award was Mr. David Connell, Vice President of the Children’s Television Workshop and Executive Producer of “Sesame Street.” The award was presented to the Children’s Television Workshop for its production of the television series “Sesame Street” which “has magnified the development of television as a service to the education of mankind”. In his acceptance remarks, Mr. Connell quoted from the Bahá’í writings about a child being like a piece of coal, and education being the process by which the coal becomes a diamond. Dr. Daniel C. Jordan, Vice Chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly, presented the Louis G. Gregory Award to Dr. James L. Olivero, who is the Executive Director of the Southwestern Cooperative Educational Laboratory in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Dr. Olivero was cited for “his spirit of service and his innovations in educational methods ...” and for developing programs to open up educational opportunities for Mexican-Americans and for Indian-Americans. In his acceptance remarks, Mr. Olivero noted that everyone who had come in contact with Mr. Gregory became a better person, and he expressed the hope that his knowledge of Mr. Gregory through the award would have the same effect upon him.

Among the guests present at the luncheon, were Chief and Mrs. Simon Adeabo, Director of the United Nations Institute for Training and Research; Mr. Probyn Marsh, Mission of Jamaica to the United Nations; Mr. Paolini, Mission of France to the United Nations; Mr. Marc Schreiber, Director of the Human Rights Section of the United Nations; the Honorable John E. Flynn, New York State Senator; and Mrs. Lauretta Turney, niece of Mr. Gregory. Some twenty members of the press and radio also were present at the occasion. These included Associated Press, United Press International, Look Magazine, Readers Digest, Ladies Home Journal, McCalls, Cosmopolitan, Woman’s Day, and

Hand of the Cause of God Louis G. Gregory 1874-1951

Radio Station WOR. The latter recorded and broadcasted excerpts of the luncheon.

The Louis G. Gregory Award for Service to Humanity was established in 1968 by the National Spiritual Assembly. The award is named in honor of a black American, Mr. Louis G. Gregory, who served on the first national administrative body of the Bahá’ís in the United States. For more than thirty years, Louis G. Gregory was the mainspring behind the work for race amity being sponsored by the Bahá’í Faith. He served with the National Bahá’í Assembly for twenty-four years. He was a friend of Booker T. Washington and George Washington Carver. He married Louisa Mathew, an English Bahá’í. They were brought together by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. He died July 30, 1951, and was buried in Eliot, Maine near the Green Acre Bahá’í School. At the time of his death the Guardian named him a Hand of the Cause of God and designated him as the first Hand of the Cause of his race.

The Louis G. Gregory Awards are original pieces by the noted American sculptor and Bahá’í, Vernon Voelz of Sarasota, Florida. The design incorporates four basic symbols, a tetrahedron, a hexahedron, a five pointed jack, and several spectral colors. Symbolically, the design represents earth, mankind, individual men and their characteristics, and the physical and spiritual universe necessary to sustain earth and its human inhabitants. The design offers visually, the thought that as God has ordered the universe and has permitted man to be sustained within it, we may realize that “Human Rights are God Given Rights.”

An International Education Year Symposium sponsored by NABOHR, preceded the luncheon. Speakers

(continued on page 10)

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LOUIS G. GREGORY AWARD LUNCHEON

The second presentation of the Louis G. Gregory Awards for Service to Humanity presented by the North American Bahá’í Office for Human Rights, was held in the New York City Statler-Hilton Hotel on October 17, 1970.

Seated in picture No. 1 at the head table are, left to right: Miss Hazel Scott, Mr. Robert Desatnick, Mrs. Mildred Mottahedeh-speaking, Mr. Whitney M. Young Jr., Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh, Dr. James Olivero, Mrs. Juliet Buford, and Dr. Sarah M. Pereira. No. 2 is Whitney M. Young Jr., Executive Director of the National Urban League, and guest speaker at the luncheon. No. 3 is Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh Chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States giving the Louis G. Gregory Award for Service to Humanity to Mr. David Connell, Executive Producer of the “Sesame Street” television program No. 4. No. 5 is Miss Hazel Scott, noted Bahá’í singer who provided entertainment at the luncheon. No. 6 is Dr. James L. Olivero receiving the Louis G. Gregory Award for Service to Humanity for his work in educational improvements for children of minority groups. No. 7 is Dr. Daniel C. Jordan, Vice Chairman, National Spiritual Assembly. No. 8 is the exhibit prepared by Mrs. Natalie DiBuono of the Public Information Office to explain the significance of the awards.

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(continued from page 8)

were Dr. Dwight Allen, Dean of the School of Education, University of Massachusetts, who spoke on “Education for Human Understanding.” Dr. James L. Olivero spoke on “Education for Human Development.” Dr. John D. Stroessinger, Chief, Political Section of the United Nations, spoke on “Education for World Peace.”

Present at the International Education Year Awards Banquet were the 1968 recipients of the Louis G. Gregory Award for Service to Humanity. One was Mr. Clark M. Eichelberger, Chairman of the Commission to Study the Organization of Peace, who was given the award for his long years of distinguished service for the advancement of international understanding and cooperation and the furtherance of human rights. The Xerox Corporation of Rochester, New York, received the award for its outstanding public service on behalf of international understanding and human rights for the period 1964-1968. This included its sponsorship of television series on the United Nations and “Of Black America.”

During 1970, the North American Bahá’í Office for Human Rights (NABOHR) sponsored several conferences and published material in connection with its observance of International Education Year. The conferences included:

• National Bahá’í Education Conference, Wilmette, February 20-22, 1970.
• Southern Regional Conference on Education “Education for the New Needs of Man”, Columbia, South Carolina, April 11-12, 1970.
• Western Regional Conference on Education “Education for Becoming Your True Self”, Eugene, Oregon, June 6-7, 1970.
• Central Regional Conference on Education, “Education for Worldmindedness”, Omaha, Nebraska, September 26-27, 1970.
• International Education Year Symposium and Awards Luncheon, New York, New York, October 17, 1970.

The North American Bahá’í Office for Human Rights is in the process of preparing a report which will be issued in book form on the activities of the United States Bahá’í Community in connection with International Education Year. The report will include excerpts of talks, recommendations made by various conferences, photos, and other material. It is expected that this report will be ready after the first of the year. Persons who attended the various conferences held during education year will receive copies of the report. Other copies will be mailed to educators throughout the nation.

The Fall 1970 issue of World Order Magazine is devoted and dedicated to International Education Year. Copies of the magazine were given to those who attended the International Education Year Symposium and Awards Luncheon. Also they are being mailed to heads of universities, departments of education, and others involved in education throughout the nation.

From all indications, the United States Bahá’í Community through NABOHR, has had an outstanding program on behalf of International Education Year, one which will again further the recognition of the Faith with the United Nations and UNESCO and with educators and others throughout the United States.

How Can I Choose to Sleep?

The cover of BAHÁ’Í NEWS this month is a drawing of one of the gardens at the House of Worship in Wilmette. It was produced originally as a program for the Sunday devotions in the House of Worship, but it has a special meaning for a number of Bahá’ís in the Wilmette area. Copies of this program were given out at very unique firesides held in the garden of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár.

Even though the House of Worship and its gardens were open until ten every day this summer, great numbers of people, mainly youth, were visiting too late to be admitted. This burdened the hearts of the Bahá’ís who wished to reach these waiting souls, so a special Committee, known as the MTC (Midnight Teaching Committee) was appointed, consisting of: Elizabeth Rodriguez, Roberta Barrar, Anthony Lee, and David Schlesinger. Every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights from 10 p.m. to 4 or 5 a.m. two gardens were opened to seekers. All visitors were met at the entrance to the grounds and told that the House of Worship and its gardens were closed, but if they wished to learn about the Bahá’í Faith, a guide would take them to one of the back gardens (away from the street so as not to disturb the neighbors) where informal discussions—firesides, were held.

If they said that they would like to learn about the Bahá’í Faith they were given a brief, basic introduction. They were told about progressive revelation, and that Bahá’u’lláh, the Glory of God, had come. In the gardens the firesides lasted from a few minutes to a few hours.

Though the grass was often wet, the wind sometimes cold, and the hour very late, there were always enough Bahá’ís of all ages to talk with the visitors, and to sit on the steps and pray. Sometimes there were over two hundred seekers a night. Because of the end result of over thirty-five declarations of belief in Bahá’u’lláh in the gardens, and countless others in the House of Worship, during the day, and at other firesides, all resulting from the garden firesides, the garden teaching project was deemed a great success. Next spring, when the earth grows warm, the garden firesides will resume. And once more the prayer of Bahá’u’lláh will fill the night:

How can I choose to sleep, O God, my God, when the eyes of them that long for Thee are wakeful because of their separation from Thee; and how can I lie down to rest whilst the souls of Thy lovers are sore vexed in their remoteness from Thy presence?

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Argentina - A Week of Teaching Brings Results

Several friends from other countries including Gerald Bagley from Ecuador, Ouida Coley from Paraguay, and John Caruana from Bolivia joined forces with seven volunteers in Argentina who arose at the Teaching Conference held in Rosario following the La Paz Continental Conference. Among the local volunteers in

[Page 11] Argentina were a lady of seventy-five and a lad of nine who accompanied his mother. The group also included Counsellor Hooper Dunbar and one Auxiliary Board member.

Setting out for Chaco Province in the north, the group planned to reach several large concentrations of Toba Indians, a tribe which had not yet heard the Message.

The group worked in different teams daily and met continually to evaluate responses and methods used. There were more than ninety enrollments in Roque Saenz Pena on the first afternoon and evening. In the course of the week some twenty new localities were opened, the majority through enrollment of people from other areas who were present at the focal point. A basis has been laid for four additional local spiritual assemblies.

A cablegram from the Continental Board of Counsellors in South America on September 19 states the results of this one week teaching effort was to double the membership of the Argentine community.

Botswana — First Youth Institute

Some of the Bahá’í youth traveled on foot for long distances to attend the first National Youth School in Botswana. Over thirty youth, adults and teachers, attended. Following the classes, the youth visited three villages to teach the Faith. Arrangements had previously been made by the National Spiritual Assembly and in each of the villages the friends had been invited by the Chief who had announced their coming to the inhabitants. A speech especially prepared by the National Assembly was delivered by the youth from the school and then there were many questions and pamphlets were distributed.

Over 300 people were told of the Message of Bahá’u’lláh in one morning. At Gabane where there were 140 people present, the Chief had altered his court ‎procedings proceedings‎ so that the Message could be given.

Within a ten day period following the school further meetings were held in six villages. A total of nine villages gathered for mass meetings and a total of 683 people heard of Bahá’u’lláh.

Cablegrams in late September announced the joyful news of the enrollment of the first Shua Bushwoman and of the first of the Kgalagadi people of the desert nation of Akin Tswana. Also the Botswana radio broadcast news of the Bahá’í Faith.

First Declaration in the Hebrides

News from the National Spiritual Assembly of the British Isles in September tells of the declaration of a believer on the Isle of Mull, the first declaration in the Hebrides.

Bahá’í Holy Days Noted in Hawaii

The National Spiritual Assembly of the Hawaiian Islands reports that as a result of the work of two national committees for several years recognition of the Bahá’í Holy Days in a school holiday calendar has been achieved. The 1970-1971 calendar, when published, included all of the Bahá’í Holy Days.

Summer Conference of Bahá’í pioneers of Kowe, Agou, Lome, Towla, Lalive, Abepe, and Agoueve with pioneer Mr. Jean Ansereeganon of Mauritius and Mr. Winston of Togo.

TEACHING IN TOGO, WEST AFRICA

Mrs. Eulalia Bobo, American traveling teacher, visits Bahá’ís in Kowe, Ahepe. She is shown here with members of the local Spiritual Assembly in May, 1970.

First Believer Enrolls in San Marino

The National Spiritual Assembly of Italy cabled the news of the declaration of the first San Marino believer, a youth aged 19.

[Page 12]

A REPORT ON THE HOUSE OF WORSHIP IN PANAMA

A recent report from the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Panama tells of progress in the erection of this building and includes the pictures shown on this and the opposite page. The report states:

“Steadily rising into view on a 740 foot elevation, and overlooking a rapidly developing urban area on the borders of the city of Panama, is a unique, modernistic, and outstanding construction which catches the attention and incites the curiosity of all who get a glimpse of it from the much traveled highway connecting the cities of Panama and Colon, known as the Transisthmian Highway. This most singular building, when completed will be the Bahá’í House of Worship for all of Latin America and will represent another monument of architectural grandeur accentuated by elegant simplicity, color harmony, and futuristic emphasis. It may rightly be thought of as a gem in the field of engineering, and will not only serve to gladden the eye and warm the heart, but, most important of all, in this atmosphere of simple beauty and restful calm, the spirit of man must inevitably be lifted above the earthly and material into the very presence of the God of Life and Love, and the Creator of all things; and, yet more, it will be the realization of a hopeful dream of a House of Worship for all the believers of Latin America.

“It is with some amount of satisfaction that our Bahá’í engineer, Paul Thiele, reports that the work is progressing rapidly (in spite of unexpected delays and heavy rains) and indications are that we will meet our projected completion date of December 1971. So far, pouring of concrete for the basic structure up to the 16-foot level balcony has been completed, as well as six of the nine sets of prestressed concrete ribs. Our goal for October is the construction of the 78-foot scaffolding of angle iron and pipe, in preparation for the installation of the dome ribs and the heavy nine pointed star which will form part of the ceiling pattern. When completed, the dome will rise to a height of 78 feet from the floor of the auditorium. Actually, it will start at the balcony level with a 118-foot diameter base, curving inwards to a 14-foot diameter opening into which the symbol of the Greatest Name will be placed.

“After careful study and much consultation, it is anticipated that the Gunite process will be utilized for the dome construction. This is a process in which a dry concrete mix is sprayed under high pressure, simultaneously with water, over steel and wire mesh reinforcement forms. Expert supervision and workmanship have been guaranteed for this phase of the work.

“It is expected that all concrete work on the basic structure will be completed by May, 1971. Interior decorating, caretaker’s cottage and access road should be completed by December, 1971. The interior of this magnificent edifice will reflect truly creative artistic designs, as will be evidenced in wall slab, interior plastering and terrazzo flooring of the 85-foot diameter auditorium.

“Landscaping is under way and over two hundred palms, almond, rubber and flowering trees, donated by one of the friends, have been planted. There are still

Children participating in Sunday morning prayer session

hundreds of trees to be planted as time and ground clearing permit.

“With hearts full of joy and gratitude, the local friends assemble monthly at the site for prayers and brotherly fellowship. People from different parts of the world also pay visits to the site. This vast circular building with no beginning or end, with its nine point star and nine entrances, seems to symbolize infinite oneness, absolute tolerance and ready admittance for all regardless of color, race, or creed.”

[Page 13] Left to right, above: View of inside taken from balcony; friends gathering for prayers; right: balcony; below: form constructed for perimeter arch at balcony level; star point—taken from balcony; star point which house stairs to balcony. Scaffolding constructed to support ribs for the dome; Opposite page: temple photo taken from parking lot.

[Page 14]

VICTORIES WON IN BRAZIL

Brazil is on the march! A mid-October report from the National Spiritual Assembly states that incomplete accounts of the new mass conversion wave show at least fifteen hundred new believers in the states of Bahia, Paraiba, Perambuco, Alagoas, Ceará, Pisuí and Pará, with no news as yet from the Manaus-Marco region in the Amazon valley.

This is the result of an international effort, sponsored by the Continental Board of Counsellors, in consultation and cooperation with the National Spiritual Assembly of Brazil, and with the collaboration of a veteran team from Colombia: Mr. Habib Rezvani, Auxiliary Board member; Mr. Olavo Novaes, member of the National Spiritual Assembly of Colombia; assisted by Mr. Djamshid Ardjomandi, of the Guianas and member of the Auxiliary Board, and Mr. Hooman England, plus many volunteer workers from the Brazilian Bahá’í community.

In a victory conference, sponsored by the Continental Board of Counsellors and held in São Paulo for the Bahá’ís of southern Brazil, sixty of the one hundred believers present, including grandmothers and small children, offered their services for periods from weekends to a month, and one offered “the rest of his life” for service in this newly opened field. A generous sum of money was also offered by those present to help carry on the work.

Bahá’í Youth Sponsor Friendship Meeting in Southern Brazil

Acting upon a recommendation of the Spiritual Assembly of Porto Alegre, Brazil, the local youth group of about twelve decided in July to send an invitation to several youth centers and schools inviting them to join in the organization of a friendship meeting. More than twenty boys and girls responded and attended the first meeting to discuss plans. The program proposed by the Bahá’ís revolved around the basic principles of: unity, removal of prejudice, and spiritual and scientific harmony.

Thirty-nine youths caught fire with the spirit of the plans and worked for two months in preparation for the meetings, gathering three to four times a week and dividing themselves into social, cultural, artistic and hospitality committees.

A three day meeting was held during the long weekend of September 5-7 (Independence Day is on September 7) attended by about two hundred youth and well publicized in newspapers and on TV. The newly coined name ENJUGA (meaning South Brazilian Youth Meeting) became a well-known and now permanent concept. State authorities in education sent representatives to the meetings.

The program offered four conferences led by famous experts in: journalism, psychology, literature, and education. There was opportunity for group discussions and social gatherings were held as well as a musical evening.

There were many questions about the Bahá’í Faith

The Mass Conversion Team, left to right: Djamshid Ardjomandi, Auxiliary Board member from the Guianas; Lazaro, a Bahá’í Indian teacher; Habib Rezvani, Auxiliary Board member from Colombia; Olavo Novaes, member of National Spiritual Assembly of Colombia; Mrs. Touba Maani from Brazil.

Some of the Indian children at the Bahá’í school in Lagos Grande, Brazil.

The Mass Conversion Team together with some veteran and new Bahá’ís in Saccăo (Bahia) Brazil.

and a fireside meeting, attended by about sixty, was held at the end of the sessions.

ENJUGA is now developing into a permanent institution, meeting regularly in the Bahá’í Center in Porto Alegre for the purpose of studying the Bahá’í Teachings. Similar conferences are planned for the future.

[Page 15] Enjuga, Porto Alegre, Brazil. Upper portion: the conference table: Left to right: Mr. Sergio Jackymann, journalist and playwright: Prof. Juan Mosquera, psychologist; Prof. Nylza Taetz, representative of the State Secretary of Education: Mr. Umberto G. Sudbrack, youth, chairman of Enjuga; Mr. Ademir C. Monteiro, secretary of Enjuga; Mr. Wanderlei Cabistani, chairman of State Student Union: Mr Rangvald Taetz, Bahá’í. Lower portion: partial view of the audience.

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Institute Completed in Puebla, Mexico

The new Institute at San Rafael Comac, Puebla, Mexico. Shown in front are Jenabe Caldwell, his wife and three of their children, who lived for almost a year in their trailer while working on the construction of the Institute and the two large dormitories. The property is outlined with brick paths in the shape of nine pointed stars. The original building (which cannot be seen in this picture) was repaired and renovated to serve as kitchen and dining room. On top of the new building is the room used as library and study. The national Convention was held here, with an attendance of about eighty.

The Caldwells left shortly before the Convention to pioneer in Alaska. The friends in Mexico are deeply grateful for their devotion and hard work in supervising the erection of this building.

[Page 16]

NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF MEXICO

Members of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Mexico. Left to right: Edna Ford, Rafael Quiroz, Lucio Nene, Antonio Salazar, Soledad Bilbatua, Valerie Nichols, Marilyn Bierman, Jorge Coranado, Benjamin Herrera. They are standing in front of the new Institute at San Rafael Comac, Puebla, Mexico.

At the first session of the first Bahá’í Institute in San Rafael, Mexico. Here were held classes for Bahá’í teachers for seven days.

Summer School Sessions in Teheran

Seven summer school sessions were held between July 3 and August 20, 1970 in Hadiqah, the vast Temple Site overlooking the city of Teheran. The total attendance was about one thousand believers, each session lasting six days.

The curriculum for all the seven sessions was identical and consisted of courses in the following subjects: Bahá’í Laws; Bahá’í Administration; History of the Faith; History of Principal Religions; Bahá’í Life (including social and moral problems).

For each session there was, in addition to the instructors, a staff including deans of men and of women, resident physician and nurse, and superintendent for the children. Over one hundred instructors attended and there were also Hands of the Cause, members of the Board of Counsellors, Auxiliary Board members, as well as pioneers and others who made important contributions, both intellectually and spiritually.

In addition to these seven sessions there were others organized by various groups such as the university students, the Youth Committee, and the National Teaching and Pioneering Committee.

[Page 17] TEHERAN

SCANDINAVIAN SUMMER SCHOOL

Scandinavian Bahá’í Summer School in Arhus, Denmark, held July 5 to 12, 1970

[Page 18] The North Central States Summer School held in Frontenac, Minnesota the last week of August.

North Central States Bahá’í Summer School

The Sixth Annual North Central States Bahá’í Summer School was held on scenic Lake Pepin at Frontenac Methodist Camp, Frontenac, Minnesota during the last week of August. The school wrapped in tranquillity produced a most conducive atmosphere of study and regeneration for the 223 who attended.

“Universal Participation”, “Shoghi Effendi-Architect of the New World Order” and Wellspring of Guidance were the courses taught in the adult classes. In an effort to implement some of the recommendations of the Guardian to the summer schools in God Passes By, an experimental class scheduling was put into effect whereby the students were divided into three groups and each teacher taught his class three times daily. The smaller classes made it possible to utilize other instructional techniques than lecture. There were also evening seminars which concentrated on the “Nine Year Plan.” A tribute to the success of the curriculum was the little discussion groups that sprung up about the camp during the recreation period.

Varied evening programs gave opportunities to share personal experiences related to the Faith, see movies and slides, and to be entertained and socialize.

In the children’s classes this year, the emphasis was on activity, creativity, and individuality. The children were plied with more than ample materials and media which ranged from Children’s Stories from “The Dawn-breakers” on tapes at listening posts to Mod Podge crafts. Enthusiasm about and participation by adults in this experimental program was extensive. In addition, the Junior Youth enjoyed courses entitled “The New Way,” prepared by National Bahá’í Schools Committee and Wellspring of Guidance taught by some of the teachers from the adult curriculum. Evening entertainment for the children consisted of films and storytelling.

A reporter from Red Wing, Minnesota covered the school. She was particularly impressed with the children’s classes. Upon leaving the camp she is reported to have said, “I spent much more time here than I had expected.”

This was a particularly blessed school in that two representatives of the Institution of the Hands of the Cause were with us for the entire session, Miss Edna True, member of the Continental Board of Counsellors and Dr. Peter Khan, Auxiliary Board member.

At the North Central States Summer School, class led by Board of Counsellors member Miss Edna True. Miss True is shown second from right.

Childrens’ class at North Central States Summer School

[Page 19]

Northwest Bahá’í Summer School

Beside the shores of beautiful Hood Canal, at the foot of hills dotted with stately firs, cedars and ornamental trees, the Northwest Bahá’í Summer School was held for the first time at the Christian Conference Grounds at Seabeck, Washington, June 27-July 2. The theme was: “Spirit of Bahá’í Education”. The average daily attendance was more than one hundred. The physical facilities were comfortable, with both rustic and modern accommodations and very good food.

Auxiliary Board member Dr. Peter Khan led a stimulating study of “Individual and Family Living” with daily classes in three parts: lecture for about thirty minutes followed by study and discussion of authoritative quotations from Bahá’í sources.

Mrs. Janet Khan led a course from Wellspring of Guidance using the same three-part method of presentation.

There was an additional class which covered a different subject each day, led by different teachers. Dr. Jalil Mahmoudi gave inspiring comments on The Hidden Words. Other topics were: “A Guide to Persian Pronunciation”; “The Significance of Covenant Breaking”; “The Value of Tests and Difficulties”; and “The Power of Prayer”. A taped recording by Hand of the Cause William Sears was used for the one on Covenant Breaking.

To provide the best program for children the School Committee used topics recommended by Bahá’í specialists in this field and a staff of carefully selected teachers planned and taught classes for age groups up to twelve years.

Mr. Kim Kimmerling with Mrs. Claire Newport led a youth class using The Seven Valleys in a new approach to learning in which the class (ages 13 to 17) turned out a complete multi-media production in four days. They wrote the script, designed and made costumes and sets, created interpretive dances in a presentation to the entire school on the last evening.

There were evening lectures, planned recreation, presentations by the children of puppet shows and playlets, so that all could have the joy which comes when Bahá’ís work and live together in true Bahá’í fellowship.

The young staff members, camp managers and leaders were attracted by the spirit and conduct of the Bahá’ís and requested a special meeting in which they could learn more about the Faith. As a result several attended a number of the functions.

The closing session was of devotions on the last night when the friends gathered in the “Woods Cathedral”, a natural opening on the forested hillside where eight giant fir trees form a huge dome reaching towards the center exposing a small patch of sky. The light was only from candles. Here with prayers and soft music the program was brought to a fitting close and the friends dispersed to bring the Message of Bahá’u’lláh to the world with renewed dedication.

The Northwest Bahá’í Summer School, Seabeck, Washington, June 27-July 2, 1970. Auxiliary Board members Mrs. Opal Conner and Dr. Peter Khan are seated center front, with Mrs. Khan to the right. At left of Mrs. Connor are Mr. and Mrs. Fred Laws, Knights of Bahá’u’lláh who pioneered in Africa.

[Page 20]

U. S. LOCALITY GOAL ACHIEVED: STATUS REPORTED FOR OTHERS

The United States goal of 3000 localities where Bahá’ís reside was won in early September when 3,044 localities were reported to the Universal House of Justice. As of November 1, 1970 this number was increased to a total of 3,197.

Progress in the other homefront goals is as follows:

1. Raise the number of local spiritual assemblies to 600
   Now: 517
   1. With at least two assemblies in each state. Now accomplished in all but one (West Virginia)
   2. With one incorporated local spiritual assembly in each state. Now in all but five states
2. Achieve recognition of Bahá’í Holy Days in each state
   Now: achieved
3. Achieve recognition of Bahá’í marriage in each state
   Now: Now achieved in all but one.
4. Increase the number of Indian languages into which some portion of the Bahá’í writings have been translated:
   In 1963: forty; Now fifty-eight.
5. Increase the minority representation in the Faith, particularly among the Negro, Indian, Spanish-speaking, Chinese and Japanese:
   Is being achieved.
6. Sharply increase the flow of funds to the International Fund.
   Is being achieved.
7. Re-establish the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Key West.
   Now: forty-two believers enrolled in Key West.
8. Increase the number of local spiritual assemblies in Puerto Rico to three.
   Now: two.

Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of South Dade County, Florida incorporated July 9, 1970. Left to right, rear: Al Houston, vice chairman; James Henry; treasurer; Francine Levy; Ben Levy, chairman; Steve Koehl; front: Hazel Gleason; Kay Koehl, assistant secretary; Lottie Sears Houston; Blanche Rudnick, secretary.

First Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Richardson, Texas. Left to right, front: Carol Miranda, Dean Strickland, Jane Strickland, Sylvia Collins, Jackie Oswald, secretary; rear: Bob Oswald, treasurer; David Miranda, Harry Craig, v. chairman; Jim Collins, chairman.

The above advertisement is part of a new proclamation program of the National Teaching Committee and the Public Information Committee to proclaim the name of Bahá’u’lláh and to tell of His mission. The ad is to appear in the December issue of Ebony Magazine and Bahá’í communities across the United States are being asked to use the ad first on Bahá’u’lláh’s birthday and then periodically during this Bahá’í year. Full details on the use of the ad were sent to all Bahá’í communities by the National Bahá’í Public Information Office.

[Page 21] First Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Hastings, New Zealand. Left to right, rear: Albert Damsell, Ken Elsmore, Peter Suschnigg, John Lester, John Giffin; front: Kini Suschnigg, Bronwyn Elsmore, Thurza Edge, Valerie Giffin.

Spiritual Assembly of Bahá’ís of Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, recently incorporated. Left to right, rear: David Dermott; John Owens; David Winters, Pat Trainer, Shama Rao Turmakur; front: Barbara Gibbs, Gerald Gibbs, Patsy Trainor, Muriel MacLeod.

Presentation to a Mayor in Illinois

Bahá’ís of Rock Island, Illinois present The Proclamation of Bahá’u’lláh to the Mayor. Left to right: Mrs. Barbara Gimm, Bahá’í; Mayor James Haymaker; Mrs. Mary Scott, Bahá’í; Miss Beth Scott, Bahá’í youth.

Memorial to the First American Believer

The annual Memorial Service in honor of the first believer in America, Thornton Chase, was held Sunday, October 4 at the gravesite in the Inglewood Park Cemetery, Inglewood, California. About two hundred Bahá’ís and their friends attended this beautiful service of music, prayers and readings in memory of the Bahá’í of whom ‘Abdu’l-Bahá said, “... The personage will not be forgotten. For the present his worth is not known but in the future it will be inestimably dear ...”

After the service the friends gathered for refreshments and socializing in the service area across the street in Centinela Park, near the tree that was donated to the City of Inglewood in 1966 in memory of Mr. ‎Thorton Thornton‎ Chase.

At the ‎Thorton Thornton‎ Chase Memorial, October 4, 1970

WILMETTE POLICE STATION RECEIVES ROSE GARDEN

Wilmette Police Chief, Fred Stoecker, receives a rose and the surrounding rose garden from Mr. L. Wyatt Cooper, Superintendent of Grounds at the Bahá’í House of Worship. The garden was donated as a gift to the Village of Wilmette from the Bahá’í Community of Wilmette and was planted in front of the new police station. It consists of 72 rose bushes of several varieties, such as “Peace”, “McGrady’s Yellow”, and “Charlotte Armstrong”, and a surrounding hedge. Chief ‎Stoeker Stoecker‎ is being given a “Jack Frost” rose by Mr. Cooper. Several years ago another rose garden was planted in front of a Wilmette Fire Station as a gift from the Wilmette Bahá’ís.

[Page 22]

Second Annual Yakima Council Fire

The Yakima Council Fire Grounds

Nearly 200 Bahá’ís and friends gathered September 12 and 13 to celebrate the second Yakima Bahá’í Council Fire held at White Swan Rodeo Encampment Grounds near Toppenish, Washington. The prevailing spirit was of joy and love for one’s fellow man as all participated in the activities which included prayer, talks on Indian legends, music and a special dramatic presentation, “Children of Light”. There was a hearty venison dinner and, in closing, a traditional dance of friendship.

Among those who led in participation were: Duncan Brown, Master of Ceremonies, Aleatha Runnels and Emma Olney (dressed in their Yakima costumes); Auxiliary Board member Opal Conner, Gary Hillaire of the National Teaching Committee, Frank LaQuier, an Ojibway from Minnesota as well as members of the State Goals Committee and other visitors.

A round dance of friendship at Yakima Council Fire

WITH THE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í YOUTH

Bahá’í information booth in the Student Union of the University of Arkansas during registration in September. This has led to interest in the Faith and has brought inquirers to meetings. Pictured are, left to right: Bill Melchoir, Pat Martin, Jim McGuire.

High School Youth Club of the Bahá’ís of Beecher High School, Mt. Morris and ‎Genessee Genesee‎ Townships, Flint, Michigan. This high school club is the first one in Michigan. Left to right: standing: Kathy Warner, Jeannie McCulley, secretary; Vincent Van Roeyen, faculty advisor; Larry Valley, Harvey McCulley, Nora Jacko; seated: Aaron Odom, chairman; Jim Fox, treasurer; Jon Fox, Jesse Van Horn. All youth pictured are Bahá’ís.

[Page 23]

Institute at Ashland, Oregon

The Bahá’ís of Ashland, Oregon held an Institute for the Northwestern States, August 27 to 30. It was the first of its kind in Oregon and a major undertaking for the small community in Southern Oregon.

The theme of the Institute was: BADASHT and the program was designed to awaken the believers to their responsibility in building a beautiful new world.

The speakers and topics were: Dr. Jalil Mahmoudi and his daughter Roda of Salt Lake City, Utah — “Youth and Parents-Where Do they Meet?” Tom and Marion West of Sparks, Nevada — “Education”; Kavous Monadjemi of Ashland, Oregon — “Bahá’í Heroic Attitudes”; Phil and Cynthia Lucas of Bellingham, Washington — “Tests and Difficulties”; Dr. Mahmoudi — “Inspiring Historical Highlights”; Kavous and Marcia Monadjemi, Tom and Marion West and Dr. Mahmoudi— “Marriage and Morals”.

The moderator was Charles McAllister of Santa Clara, California who was general leader for the sessions which were held in and around Lithis Park. The event was a success with many new Bahá’í declarations, some new pioneer volunteers and a more unified feeling among those present, giving all a sample of the joy of Bahá’í life as it will be in the future.

Bahá’í in the News

The Informer, LaFayette, Indiana, the community’s Black Community Newspaper, has recently published three articles which tell of the Bahá’í Faith in detail. They were written by Mr. Leslie Hawthorne, at the request of the editor, and give a brief history of the Faith, telling about the life and principles of Bahá’u’lláh as well as the essence of His Teachings. The concluding article relates the story of Hand of the Cause Louis Gregory and quotes liberally from the pamphlet about him by Elsie Austin.

Workshop in California

A two day creative workshop to reach Spanish speaking people was held recently at Asilomar Conference Grounds, Pacific Grove, California. It was sponsored by the State Goals Committee. Culture and specific needs of Mexican Americans as well as pioneering and teaching were the chief topics for discussion and study.

An unexpected opportunity to learn as well as teach came from the fact that a Chicano group from Oakland was meeting at Asilomar at the same time. Friendships between members resulted and Chicanos attended the Bahá’í gatherings showing interest. Mexican American speakers came to the Bahá’í workshops presenting their needs and Bahá’ís were invited to attend their dance.

BAHÁ’Í BOOTHS IN FAIRS

Bahá’í booth at Monroe County (New York) Fair in August. This is the first time a Bahá’í booth has been at this Fair. The project involved cooperation of Bahá’ís of Rochester, Monroe County and Victor, New York.

Booth at Spokane, Washington Interstate Fair held for nine days in September. Bahá’ís of several districts cooperated in assembling and manning this exhibit.

[Page 24]

BAHÁ’Í PUBLISHING TRUST

First Paperbound Edition God Passes By Available. This great history of the first century of the Bahá’í Dispensation, by Shoghi Effendi, can now be purchased in a paperbound edition, which has 448 pages including index.

Per copy (Paper)	$1.75

A new printing of the clothbound edition of God Passes By has also been made, necessitating a slight increase in price.

Per copy (Cloth)	$3.50

A New Wind Blowing. (Collection of Bahá’í folksongs.)

Here is the book of Bahá’í songs for informal singing which many Bahá’ís, and especially the youth, have desired. It contains a number of the favorite songs from the old mimeographed packet, plus many others, all selected by the Bahá’í Committee on Music. It has been professionally typeset, attractively designed, and made available in a convenient size for easy use. Many songs are arranged for four parts and guitar chords are given. There is a yellow gold cover and drawings are by Anna Stevenson. 8½ x 5½, 56 pages.

Per copy	$ .50
20 copies	$8.00
100 copies	$35.00

Bahá’í Wall Calendar, 1971. The new calendar has views of the Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois, with interior and exterior detail. The Feast Days and Holy Days are depicted in different colors and detailed information on special observances is contained on the back.

Overseas orders should be sent as soon as possible. All orders within the United States should also be sent in soon to avoid last minute rush mailings. (No standing orders except overseas.)

Per copy	$ .25
10 copies	$2.00
25 copies	$4.00

Note: Minimum orders are $5.00. It is very costly to process orders for less than this amount, or for a single calendar. Community members should combine their calendar orders and order only through local librarians. Isolated individuals who order the calendar should try to make up an order of at least $5.00 of various items. This is much appreciated.

Pocket Calendar, 1971. Feast and Holy Days are indicated on this convenient billfold or purse calendar, with detailed information on special observances on the back. (No standing orders except overseas.)

20 copies	$1.00
100 copies	$4.00

Order from Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois, 60091.

FINLAND

Bahá’í exhibit at the fair in Tornio, North Finland in July attracted much attention. Later it was sent to ten cities for from three to five days. Public meetings were scheduled to take place at the time.

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BAHÁ’Í NEWS is published for circulation among Bahá’ís only by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís 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: Miss Charlotte Linfoot, National Spiritual Assembly Representative; Mr. Rexford C. Parmelee, Mrs. Sylvia 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 Center, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois, U.S.A. 60091.