The National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is
of the United States and Canada
I am deeply convinced that if the Annual Convention of the friends in America, as well as the National Spiritual Assembly, desire to become potent instruments for the speedy realization of the Beloved’s fondest hopes for the future of that country, they should endeavor, first and foremost, to exemplify, in an increasing degree, to all Bahá’ís and to the world at large the high ideals of fellowship and service which Bahá’u’lláh and the beloved Master set before them. . . .
Again, I earnestly appeal to every one of you, and renew my only request with all the ardor of my conviction, to make, before and during the coming Convention, yet another effort, this time more spontaneous and selfless than before, and endeavor to approach your task—the election of your delegates, as well as your national and local representatives—with that purity of spirit that can alone obtain our Beloved’s most cherished desire. Let us recall His explicit and often-repeated assurances that every Assembly elected in that rarified atmosphere of selflessness and detachment is, in truth, appointed of God, that its verdict is truly inspired, and that one and all should submit to its decision unreservedly and with cheerfulness. . . .
Hitherto the National Convention has been primarily called together for the consideration of the various circumstances attending the election of the National Spiritual Assembly. I feel, however, that in view of the expansion and the growing importance of the administrative sphere of the Cause, the general sentiments and tendencies prevailing among the friends, and the signs of increasing interdependence among the National Spiritual Assemblies throughout the world, the assembled accredited representatives of the American believers should exercise not only the vital and responsible right of electing the National
Construction of Mashriqu’l-Adhkár, Photograph No. 11—March 30, 1931
Assembly, but should also fulfill
the functions of an enlightened,
consultative and cooperative body that
will enrich the experience, enhance the
prestige, support the authority, and assist
the deliberations of the National
Spiritual Assembly. . . .
Regarding this forthcoming Convention, I feel that the dominating purpose inspiring the assembled friends, delegates and visitors alike, should be a twofold one. The first is a challenge to the individual, the second a collective responsibility. The one seeks to reinforce the motive power of our spiritual activities, the second aims at raising the standard of administrative efficiency so vitally needed at this advanced stage of our work. . . .
ANNUAL COMMITTEE REPORTS[edit]
1930-1931 Teaching
This year it has been the privilege of the National Teaching Committee to function at a time when the Cause has entered upon a new cycle of growth. Not only in our rising Temple may we find explanation of a more dynamic motion. Due to a gradual deepening in the knowledge of the Administration we seem also to be approaching a new understanding of group functioning which has released energies, promoted singleness of purpose, stimulated efficient and untiring cooperation.
A flow of letters from every part of the country assures us that teaching has indeed come to be regarded as “the paramount issue,” the responsibility of which the American believers are sharing together in a widespread way.
Report of the Inter-assembly Conferences (by Mr. R. C. Collison.)
One of the major activities of the Committee this year has been the stimulation and development of inter-assembly cooperation in teaching. A tentative plan for such co-operation was presented at Green Acre in August and met with enthusiastic response. After definite plans were presented to the assemblies, the inter-assembly districts with one exception reported at least one conference. Two or more conferences have been held in the New England, Northern Ohio, Illinois-Wisconsin, Los Angeles and San Francisco districts.
Although the plan is still in the experimental stage we believe that a few things have been accomplished, especially on the West Coast.
(1) More friendly relations and greater unity have been developed among the believers in each district. The friends in California write that the conference idea is developing fast in that state with bi-monthly meetings of the inter—assembly committees and frequent conferences of the believers.
(2) Isolated believers have become part of a working group in the Cause.
(3) There has been a definite increase in the number of Bahá’í study groups.
(4) The development of new teachers and how to give them practical experience in teaching is receiving an increasing amount of attention.
(5) The development of group thinking and action. One of our national teachers says that the world is organized for efficiency yet the whole social structure is rotting. We are not striving primarily for efficiency but rather for unity and the new social conception based upon it.
In a recent Committee letter sent out to the inter-assembly representatives and secretaries, a number of questions were asked to determine the actual accomplishments of the district conferences in the activities of the individual assemblies. Only a few reports have been as yet received. The Lansing, Michigan, the Assembly has doubled its membership during the past year and a weekly study group formed after the fall conference, numbers twenty-one. The Urbana group holds three weekly study meetings for adults, youth and children. The Illinois– Wisconsin Inter-assembly Committee has sent their assemblies a list of thirty-two available teachers within the district for small group or public meetings. A number of these teachers have served in neighboring assemblies with encouraging results. We are still waiting however, for information from any part of the country on organized inter-assembly teaching circuits in regular operation. We can but feel this to be a most important goal and that the motion resulting from this winter’s efforts will gain momentum and go farther and faster in the coming year.
Survey of work done by traveling teachers. The increased demands of an expanding teaching program for teachers—to open up new territory through pioneer work, to do follow-up work, to address public audiences, or to establish temporary residence in a place for the guidance of a young group—have been far beyond our ability to meet. We could have used an army of trained teachers. Then we are all having to face together the problem of insufficient funds.
The openings which have had to be disregarded because of these two limitations have been a spur to us to appeal through the BAHÁ’I NEWS, through the inter-assembly conferences and individual correspondence, for the training of new teachers, We have urged those friends with an untried capacity to teach, to deepen in the knowledge of the Cause by study through the outlines, correspondence course, and study classes which are a preliminary to practise speaking and first flights into inter-assembly openings. The subject matter and the training school have been provided, and an increasing number are arising to the call. But as Ruhi Effendi has said in a letter to the Teaching Committee, “Concerning the creation of new teachers, Shoghi Effendi says that this is gradual and can come about only as the result of thorough training. This training has to take the form, first, of a thorough study of the teachings, and then of actual practice in the field.” To fill the waiting emergency our devoted band of Bahá’í teachers have arisen to promote the Cause of God over a wide area with extraordinary zeal and confirming sacrifice.
In November Miss Fanny Knobloch traveled south as a Bahá’í teacher stopping at Savannah, St. Augustine (where she addressed two hundred students in a colored industrial school) Fernandino, Jacksonville, where she spoke in a Universalist church. Miss Knobloch arrived in Miami November 22nd to be greeted by Mrs. Olive Kretz with whom she worked for the Cause in the months that followed.
Early in January the Miami Assembly was formed. Three weeks later Miss Knobloch wrote “Our Wednesday afternoon study class is increasing in numbers . . . we are reaching out into Coral Gables, Redwood and other suburbs. We are arranging for a series of public talks using the press as well as personal invitations on the part of the believers.”
Miss Knobloch will continue her splendid service in Florida until April 8th when she will leave for Flint, Michigan, where pioneer work has been carried on with noteworthy results since the fall. This territory has been opened by Mrs. Howard Ives, Mrs. Greenleaf and Mrs. Grace Ober, who on successive visits have helped to bring together a study class there and spread the knowledge of the Cause extensively throughout the entire section.
The Illinois-Wisconsin district has
been fortunate in having the undivided
services of Mr. Albert Vail who because
of the needs of the Temple Program
Committee has concentrated
upon this fertile field of Bahá’í Work.
(Reported elsewhere.) On a visit
there in November Mr. Louis Gregory
spoke in Wilmette, Madison, Milwaukee,
where he gave the Bahá’í Message
to 200 students at the State Normal
School. Later he gave four addresses
at the University of Illinois,
Sociological Dept. This region is
particularly blessed with teachers, Mrs.
Ruth Moffett. Mr. Agnew, Mr. Windust,
Miss Easterbrook are among
those mentioned as having conducted
meetings in neighboring assemblies.
Mrs. Moffett has been doing active
work in Milwaukee having made
ten visits to this city since January
10. She says: “There is an awakening
in Milwaukee such as there has
not been for many years. Many people
of capacity are being attracted. I
was asked to go back to the Wisconsin[Page 3]
State Teacher’s College the 4th time
to give the Message to several different
groups. There were from forty
to sixty-five in each group.” In
Chicago, Urbana, Racine and other
regional centers Mrs. Moffett has been
successful in her contacts with outside
organizations such as colleges, women’s
clubs, religious groups.
Three groups in the southern Ohio district have increased their membership to nine or more since the fall. These new assemblies are Cincinnati, Columbus and Dayton. Miss Juliet Thompson who spent several weeks in this section before Christmas (see special report) is to return there soon. Cincinnati, Dayton and Cleveland were visited by Louis Gregory. The New York State assemblies have been fortunate in receiving visits from these teachers and from Mrs. Ruth Moffett. Although the Washington, and the New England districts have not this year been part of the route of a traveling teacher, with the exception of Mr. Louis Gregory, visits and talks have been reported from Mrs. Mary Hanford Ford, Dr. Genevieve Coy, Mr. Allan McDaniel, Mr. Harlan Ober and others.
Report of the activities of Orcella Rexford with follow-up teachers. The first of this record describing Miss Rexford’s summer activities in Colorado Springs and the account of her two Bahá’í lectures there on Oct. 15th and 16th, and her work in Denver was published by BAHÁ’I NEWS in February. For the sake of continuity will refer back to her report to the Teaching Committee of December 16th, in which she said that in Colorado Springs she gave the Bahá’í Message twice to over three hundred people at the conclusion of her lectures. In the carrying on of a Bahá’í class of about fifty Miss Rexford was assisted by Mrs. Ruth Brandt of California. Mrs. Brandt has given devoted service in training the persons attracted by Miss Rexford’s classes throughout the entire winter.
Of her work in Denver Miss Rexford said: “I gave the Message in Denver to the largest audience, I have addressed on the Cause for many years. The Denham Theatre seats about eighteen hundred people. Every seat was taken at both lectures and people were standing and turned away. This was the result of six weeks of continuous advertising of these lectures at my public lectures. Five thousand people had signed tickets asking to be notified of these lectures and ten thousand invitations were sent out as well as advertising it in the paper.”
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This issue of BAHÁ’I NEWS contains, for the information of delegates and believers generally, the Reports rendered to the National Spiritual Assembly by the committees of that body. They are presented as part of the Annual Report of the National Assembly. The activities of each committee will also be discussed in the Convention. It is hoped that each delegate will give careful consideration to these published Reports before the Convention is convened, so that the ensuing deliberation may be based on full knowledge of the year’s activity. |
“The next morning a class of seventy-five convened . . . an audience of four hundred turned out for the evening class.” Miss Rexford taught this class for two evenings assisted by Mrs. Brandt when she was relieved by the arrival of Mrs. Beulah Lewis who had been sent by the West Coast Teaching Committee.
Miss Rexford continues, “On December 7th and 8th I gave the Message to crowded houses in Oklahoma City at the conclusion of my work here. The auditorium was crowded to capacity, at both meetings about seven hundred were present, many standing and others turned away. Mrs. Edwinna Powell arrived in time to be present at the lectures. . . . There were some very sincere souls attracted and we should have an assembly here.”
“Leaflets on ‘What is a Bahá’í’ were given out to all interested. Four hundred Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era were sold in Denver and seventy-five in Oklahoma City and more are ordered.”
Of the follow-up work of Mrs. Beulah Lewis, Mrs. Brandt writes: “She arrived at 6:30 P. M. and at eight o’clock was on the platform, endearing herself to her audience and welding a bond of sympathy with them which has grown stronger with each succeeding week.”
With lectures equally divided between Denver and Colorado Springs and making the trips weekly between the two cities, time seemed full enough before clubs of both cities began asking Mrs. Lewis to speak before their organizations.”
Among the organizations before which Mrs. Lewis has spoken several have asked for the direct Message, and all announced to their assembled groups that she was regularly engaged in Teaching the Bahá’í Cause. At the Rotary and Woman’s Club luncheon with three hundred present she was placed before the microphone and gave the direct Bahá’í Message to the entire Rocky Mountain region. . . .”
Mrs. Robert Lee Moffett followed Mrs. Lewis for nineteen days in December. She reports as follows: Public classes were held in the center of the business district each Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday mornings at ten o’clock. She spoke to a group of about fifty for an hour, then conducted an open forum until twelve.
At two o’clock each day a more intensive study class was held in the spacious living room of the Society of Arts, a beautiful old home to which about thirty went regularly.
About two hundred attended the evening classes in the Metropolitan Building. A forum discussion followed these classes. Thursday and Friday of each week were spent in Colorado Springs. . . . In all forty-four classes were held in Denver in the nineteen days. Many people of capacity were deeply attracted. A large and active Bahá’í study group and future assembly is now established in Denver through the devoted services of the above mentioned teachers. The report of the subsequent visit first of Mr. Willard Hatch, then of Martha Root to Denver is yet to be received.
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Address for Correspondence News Editor Office of the Secretariat Evergreen Cabin West Englewood, New Jersey BAHÁ’I NEWS is the official organ of the American National Spiritual Assembly. Its cost is defrayed from the National Bahá’i Fund and copies are distributed free of charge to recognized believers throughout the United States and Canada, and to National and Local Spiritual Assemblies in other lands. News articles and reports of general Bahá’i interest and value are requested from Assemblies, National Committees and other representatives of the Cause. The Guardian’s statement concerning the purpose and scope of this publication can be found in the volume entitled “Bahá’i Administration.” |
[Page 4]
Mrs. Edwina Powell took Miss Rexford’s
place in Oklahoma City early
in December where she remained for
four months. She reports that a small
group of confirmed believers are
applying for an assembly and that there
are many more interested inquirers.
Mrs. Powell has recently made an
interesting contact with the Indian Mission
at McCloud where she was able
to present the Bahá’í Cause to the
Indian minister who is in charge and
speak to the children in the Sunday
School. He is reading Bahá’í literature
and seems attracted to the Cause.
In February, Mrs. Elizabeth Greenleaf who had been for some time actively engaged in teaching work in Chicago and its general vicinity, followed Orcella Rexford’s classes in New Orleans, where again a large number of people had been brought into contact with the Bahá’í teachings by means of public lectures. A study class has been formed although owing to a Roman Catholic population of perhaps seventy-five per cent and tests in the way of local prejudice the numbers of attracted individuals has not been large. Mrs. Powell has concluded her stay in Oklahoma City and is now following the campaign of Miss Rexford in San Antonio, Texas. From San Antonio, Miss Rexford went to Dallas.
Mr. Louis Gregory has recently taken a trip South, where he says it is easy to teach the Cause because people are looking for the second coming of Christ. After two weeks of teaching in Washington and Baltimore, Mr. Gregory went to Lynchburg, Virginia, where he spoke on Comparative Religion at the Lynchburg college, held meetings at the Y. M. C. A. and spoke in the Baptist Seminary. At Charlestown, S. C., he held meetings in five churches, spoke at the Catholic High School, and the Booklovers Club. At Bricks, N. C., be held two meetings at a white college, later at the State College of Virginia.
This tentative survey of Bahá’í teaching work has been prepared from such material as has already been sent us by the friends and does not include for the most part, material that has already occurred in the NEWS LETTER or the report of work actually under the jurisdiction of the West Coast Teaching Committee. The work of Mrs. Keith Ransom-Kehler has been given in part in an earlier issue. We are looking forward to hearing Martha Root’s report of her work in this country from the Convention floor.
Outline Bureau. The Outline Bureau has continued to handle the Correspondence Course and study outlines published before the last Convention.
During the last year, a study outline on “Material and Divine Civilization” was completed of which about 200 copies have been sold. It contains the Social and Economic teachings of the Cause. It consists of ten pages of references with bibliography and sells for fifteen cents. The outline on “The Bahá’í Teachings concerning Christ” has been reprinted, selling for ten cents.
We are making a special offer of a Bahá’í study kit in a manila folder for one dollar postpaid. It consists of the Bahá’í Correspondence Course of twenty lessons formerly selling for one dollar, and study outlines on “Material and Divine Science,” “The Bahá’í Teachings Concerning Christ”, “New Light on the Scriptures” and “Material and Divine Civilization.” These study helps will be on sale in the Foundation Hall.
We hope soon to publish a short study course for beginners in the Cause which will be suitable for groups attracted and informally organized by our traveling teachers. This course will be based upon a small number of books so that the required books and mimeographed lessons can be sold complete for not more than $1.50. The exact form and content of this course will be determined by the experience and judgment of our traveling teachers.
This self-supporting activity of the Teaching Committee now has a bank account of sixty-seven dollars and no debts.
All publications of the Bureau are now being handled by Mrs. R. C. Collison, 681 Castle Street, Geneva, New York.
- National Teaching Committee,
- By: DORIS MCKAY,
- Secretary.
- REGINALD COLLISON,
- Chairman.
- ALBERT D. HEIST,
- MAY MAXWELL,
- LOUIS G. GREGORY
INTER-RACIAL AMITY[edit]
The work of the year had an auspicious beginning with the Portsmouth-Green Acre Conference of August. The city of the open door was represented by its mayor who both in his official capacity and in a personal way through his ownership of the Portsmouth Herald, has for many years been very friendly to Green Acre. Workers for amity found an atmosphere of racial justice and religious freedom. The well-known ideals of Green Acre are happily blended with the noble traditions of Portsmouth. Scientific and spiritual arguments for racial understanding, stories of the life of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the youth’s forum with its strong faith and clear vision, the contribution of the colored race to American culture and achievement, the spiritual basis of amity, the improvement of conditions due to broadening sympathies and the dynamic ideals and standards of Bahá’u’lláh were among the thoughts which found eloquent expression. The various sessions were divided between the two communities.
New York, the largest Bahá’í community, has led in the amity work of the year. The first effort was the conference held in November with representatives of the National Urban League and the National Association for the Advancement of the Colored People cooperating with the Bahá’ís. A number of white friends who came from other cities found hospitable shelter in the homes of some of the colored residents of Harlem, giving fine opportunities for teaching. About twenty addresses were made during the sessions, the seriousness of which was relieved by many social gatherings, as well as music. The social, economic and spiritual aspects of race relations and the program and message of Bahá’u’lláh as the one great solution of all problems of this nature, were among the features. These meetings made a most profound impression upon those in attendance and the photograph and report of these conferences were given wide publicity by the press.
The third effort was the Christmas
entertainment of white and colored
children by the young people’s group
of New York, already described in a
former number of BAHÁ’I NEWS. The
fourth great occasion was the amity
conferences of March, in which the
Urban League again cooperated with
the Bahá’ís in the presentation of a
most attractive program. Mr. Samuel
A. Allen had a seed planted in his
heart by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá when as a student
at Howard University he heard
the memorable address of 1912. This
is recalled now when he, as the industrial
secretary of a great welfare
organization, responds so nobly to the
service of the Divine Cause. He was a
chairman at the time when the problem
of economics was considered,
addresses being made by Mrs. Ford, Mrs.
Mathews and Mr. and Mrs. Willard
McKay. At the Bahá’í Center,
addresses of unusual eloquence and power
were delivered by Mr. Horace Holley[Page 5]
and Dr. Leslie Pinckney Hill,
principal of the Cheyney Normal
School of Pennsylvania, on the Value
of Education. A pleasing feature was
the singing of Negro Spirituals by the
Business Men’s Quintette led by Dr.
M. V. Boutté. An explanation of the
motif and composition of these
delightful strains was also given.
The Wilmette Assembly has carried on its usual amity activities during the current year with our devoted brother, Dr. Zia M. Bagdadi, as the principal instrument of service. The Illinois Wisconsin regional conference featured this particular line of service with addresses by Dr. Bagdadi and Mr. Gregory. Dr. Bagdadi has reached very progressive groups of colored people in Chicago, Kenosha and Evanston. In the last city, he had the fine support of the Educational and Welfare Association conducted by Miss Bessie M. Garrison who has written most enthusiastically of the aid given her by both Dr. Bagdadi and Mr. Vail. Mrs. True is their regular inspired teacher.
Reports from the far west tell of the first inter-racial amity dinner given by the Bahá’ís of Pasadena, Calif., at which one hundred and twenty persons were seated. Eloquent addresses were made by Mrs. French, Mrs. Ransom-Kehler and others, “It was avowedly Bahá’í and the confirmation rained upon us.” says the report in part.
The Seattle, Wash., friends ever so active, held their ninth peace and amity conference in October, with the Unitarian churches of that city, various peace clubs and the Bahá’í Assembly cooperating. Rev. Dorothy Dyar of the University Church, presided and the program consisted of addresses by Clarence R. Anderson, Esq., on “Race Prejudice as a Cause of Inharmony”; Herbert S. Little, Esq., on “Racial Unity,” and Mrs. Keith Ransom-Kehler on “The Most Great Peace Shall Come.” Music was furnished by the choir of Zion Baptist Church and about four hundred persons were in attendance.
During a Southern tour, Mr. Gregory gave a talk on the unity of religions to the inter-racial committee of the Y. W. C. A., at Lynchburg, Va. Their study program has included the various religions of the world and they showed deep interest in and appreciation of the Bahá’í message. These noble women are a little nucleus and are quite brave. At Bricks. N. C., the Junior College of the same name held two meetings, one for racial amity and the other to give the Bahá’í message to the faculty and the higher students.
Both these meetings were attended by a white college president who came thirty miles accompanied by a small group of his students. The two races thus meeting upon the plane of reality dined together at both the material and spiritual feasts. When asked whether on not their new human attitude was known, our white friends replied: “We neither conceal nor publish our attitude toward the colored people.” To the traveler in the South there are many signs of progress in race relations.
The Washington, D. C., friends have succeeded in organizing a discussion group which includes members of various races, white, black, yellow and red, happily blended in the oneness of humanity. Although not nominally Bahá’í, this group was started by the Bahá’ís and shows its constructive ideals from the teachings. During the years, this is the only effort to organize such a group at the National Capital which is a going concern. That these friends have succeeded where others have failed is without doubt due to the powerful aid and confirmations of Bahá’u’lláh and the instructions and aid of the Master and Guardian. At a very interesting meeting held in February addresses were made by representatives of the colored, white and red races. The tragic life of the aborigines of the continent was graphically portrayed by one of them. It is our hope that the friends in spreading the Cause will not forget those like the Indians who have suffered the most. These monthly meetings are of deep and vital interest to all mankind and will have their influence upon the civilization of the world. The National Teaching Committee,
- By: LOUIS G. GREGORY.
- Amity Secretary.
- By: LOUIS G. GREGORY.
THE BAHA’I MAGAZINE[edit]
Editorial Report
The editorial work of the BAHÁ’I MAGAZINE is, as we have stated before, different from other activities in that its history is written from month to month as the magazine is published. Thus the members of the National Spiritual Assembly are familiar with its contents and character, and undoubtedly have kept in close touch with its development. We offer, therefore, the twelve issues as the more important part of this report.
Probably the most definite note of progress the past year has been in the character of articles submitted for publication. At a glance, one can see that the contributions to the pages of the magazine have been for the most part distinctly high class to such an extent that more than one scholar of distinction commented on its style. The mother of one of our U. S. Senators said, “What a very well organized and professional looking magazine you are getting out.” Consistently and constantly, we endeavor to make each issue a balanced number, and to avoid having any one theme too much presented; yet we also seek to avoid any quality of desultoriness, keeping before us always that which is of primary importance, namely, to keep the magazine “distinctly Bahá’í as the official organ of the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh,” as our Guardian has instructed.
Another note of advancement this year is in the appointment of Contributing Editors to officially represent other countries, their duty being to not only write articles themselves, but to secure material from others whom they know are capable of contributing the proper and necessary type of material. This is going to greatly enrich the pages of the magazine the coming year, that is, we will have more material about the life and work of the Bahá’ís, especially in the Orient, and thus, we will be able to further demonstrate the universal aspects of the Cause. A representative has been appointed in Great Britain, Persia, Egypt, Japan and China.
Large numbers of extra copies of the magazine are sold at different times especially when there appears some outstanding article on timely subjects—for instance, like on Education, Economics, etc., in fact, some of the back numbers are entirely exhausted. This indicates a sustained interest by non-Bahá’ís as well as Bahá’ís.
Several libraries in this country have
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AMERICAN NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY Address: Bahá’í Secretariat, Evergreen Cabin, West Englewood, N. J. Members: For correspondence with Bahá’ís of the United States and Canada, Alfred E. Lunt; for correspondence with Bahá’ís on other lands, and with non-Bahá’ís in the United States and Canada, Nellie S. French; editor of BAHÁ’Í NEWS, Horace Holley; Treasurer of the National Assembly and of the Trustees for the Benefit of the National Spiritual Assembly (Temple and Green Acre Funds) Roy C. Wilhelm; Financial Secretary, Carl Scheffler. |
asked for a renewal of their subscription. The magazine is now being placed in the library of a larger number of the more important colleges in the country, institutions both for the white and the colored people. It is gratifying when a renewal is asked for. Through the great generosity of two of the Bahá’í friends, the magazine was placed on file last year in some twenty universities in Germany, all those in fact recommended by Martha Root. This year, we wondered whether it was the wise thing to continue to send the magazine after the subscriptions had expired, without first knowing definitely if the magazine was being read and wanted. So it was decided recently to write a courteous letter to the various universities making inquiry as to whether they wished the magazine continued. There has not been time to receive many replies, but two have promptly arrived. One merely states, “we would like to have the magazine continued.” The other reply is as follows:
“I thank you very much for sending the BAHÁ’I MAGAZINE. It is exhibited in the Oriental Room of the University of Tubingen of which I am the director. I would be thankful if this magazine may continue to be sent, for I wish that my scholars should be acquainted concerning the BAHÁ’I MAGAZINE. I wish my pupils to be thoroughly informed of the contents of this magazine.”
- (Signed) PROF. DR. J. W. HAUER.
This letter of course is very encouraging for it shows how the BAHÁ’I MAGAZINE is a teacher, and, being so distinctly Bahá’í, the students will become familiar with the Bahá’í teachings and the universality of the Cause.
We also have quite a list of libraries in universities in China to which addresses we are sending the magazine since Martha Root was in China.
From many comments on the magazine, we choose a few so that our National Committee may know how the magazine is regarded, and as an evidence that “the service of the friends belongs to God and not to them.”
“We beg to thank you for the issues of your magazine. You will be certainly glad to know that the paper is greatly appreciated by our readers, and we hope that you shall be able to continue your gift.” (Signed) MISS JOSEPHINE STOREY, Quo Vadis Circulating Library, Geneva, Switzerland.
“I subscribe to this magazine because it is a great torch of spiritual light destined to guide humanity unto the gates of the Kingdom of God. No believer who has learned the English language, even to a small degree, can afford to be without this magazine so rich and attractive is it in its articles and subjects,” ADIB R. BAGDADI, Irak.
“The ever-increasing excellence of the BAHÁ’I MAGAZINE is a source of pleasure and pride to Bahá’ís everywhere. I wish it were possible for us to give it a broader ‘audience,’ and that we could each subscribe year after year for a ‘loaning copy,’ When I am relieved from some of the present financial pressure, I certainly hope to do so again.” School of the Little Green Trees, Gesena Koch, California.
“I regret exceedingly being so in arrears in my payments to this most wonderful of all magazines. I would not miss it for the worlds,” ELLA MEISSNER.
“This is to tell you how we all find the Star of the West. It is fine and a most precious document, both for devoted believers and for teaching use.” ELIZABETH HESSE, Paris.
“I look forward to every number of the Star of the West, and I am beginning to feel that in the near future, I shall drop my subscription to many magazines for I cannot read them all, and I practically read every word in my BAHÁ’I MAGAZINE. . . . Indeed I read my magazine every day, and I wonder how I ever lived without it.” MRS. WM. E. HUTTON, Denver. (By way of information, this friend is the wife of a wonderful attorney. She was formerly a science teacher in the public schools and a one time pupil of Dr. David Starr Jordan.)
“Enclosed find subscription for the Chinese student, graduate of the Colorado School of Mines. He is a fine young man, and he will enjoy Martha’s article on China and other articles.” WILLARD P. HATCH.
“The STAR continues to be better and better. Mrs. Coralie Franklin Cook’s article on Prof. Just has been enjoyed very much. I found Mr. Cobb’s editorial a really great contribution—so practical, so simple, so in line with all of our needs. I have read it over several times and I intend to read it to others.” LOULIE MATHEWS.
“I have loaned my Stars to a Christian Science practitioner who seems to be eager to come into the Cause, and I find each number particularly good and just what I want to pass on to the seeker.” MARY S. CORISTENE.
“Editorial in STAR for January very much appreciated by all because of its practical application. Other articles very, very illuminating. Subscribers now read every word—from cover to cover.” ERNEST V. HARRISON.
“I get the BAHÁ’I MAGAZINE, read it evenings, and send it on to others who as I meet them have many questions to ask,” LYDIA HOLMAN.
“There are many fine things in your magazine, and I was especially interested in the January article, The Expectation of the Ages by Keith Ransom-Kehler. While I have many of the Bahá’í books, I had not seen the prophecies with the scripture verses so clearly stated. Appreciating very much your kindness in sending me the magazine these many months, and wishing you a wide circulation for this wonderful message which the world so much needs.” ELIZABETH B. BOYLAN. Hollywood, Calif.
“The last STAR was very interesting with all its foreign letters and news and very illuminating articles. I just love it. And no sooner do I finish reading it than it is circulated widely among inquirers, and so it becomes a great help in teaching.” ESTHER DAVIS.
“I look forward with joy to each number.” AMALIE O. TYLER.
“The STAR came—it is too wonderful a magazine for me to find words to describe it. I wish I had any number to distribute to a weary and waiting world. Please mail me an extra copy while you have them.” LILLIAN JAMES.
The illustrations the past year have been greatly enjoyed. In the economies aiming toward the finishing of the Temple, the number of illustrations chargeable to the magazine have been limited to one full page, but friends have kindly donated from time to time the sums necessary to have further illustrations which seemed so necessary in making the magazine modern, readable, vivid and more interesting.
Beginning with the April issue, the magazine will carry a new cover. The cover design carried the past year has been appreciated by some, others have thought the real Temple should have been featured. But a large majority liked the cover design as suitable for just that, namely, a cover design,—and taken from the viewpoint of the make-up of modern magazines, it has been considered for our particular needs a good design. But the April STAR will carry a new cover.
In conclusion might we just add that we have been greatly encouraged by the increase of renewals over last year and other items of interest set forth in the report of the Business Manager.
For the high quality of material we[Page 7]
are able to publish, we owe thanks to
many writers who sacrificed their time
and energy to contribute. These are
all busy people and it is a service of
some sacrifice which they render. This
fact should be appreciated by all readers
of the STAR as it is by the Editors.
Any progress whatsoever along any line is attained because of our Guardian’s prayers and his guidance and protection, and our absolute dependence upon this Divinely Appointed Center.
- Faithfully your servants,
- STANWOOD COBB,
- MARIAM HANEY.
- Faithfully your servants,
THE BAHA’I MAGAZINE[edit]
Financial Report
We feel we have in some ways a little more encouraging report to make this year.
Our contribution from the National Spiritual Assembly has been $320 per month or $3,800 for the year and our actual receipts from the Magazines up to March 19th are $3,388.52, a total of $7,188.52. At this date, cash in the bank and assets amount to $1,150.51, of which $1,116.71 is cash in the bank.
There has been a falling off in New Subscriptions the past year, amounting to $282.75, which is largely due to the fact that in 1929-1930 we received about $200.00 or more to be used for Universities, Libraries or individual subscriptions and these gifts have not been renewed; though it is hoped that similar contributions will be made in the future.
Also the Persian friends have not been able to pay for their subscriptions, “The banks have stopped all their foreign transactions and are not selling any drafts,” according to Capt. Sohrab. The Magazines are being sent where most needed and read, hoping that in time the friends can get the money on to us. Several ways have been tried to overcome this difficulty, one was to send Air Mail Stamps to be sold but we could not find a market for them so that method failed. Perhaps some of the friends would like to pay for subscriptions for the Persian believers till the conditions are better.
We are not discouraged over this dropping off of new Subscriptions realizing the hard times everywhere, and we have made no special drive to get new people—yet in spite of all this we have $432.25 in New Subscriptions and have on our books 1,439 subscribers.
We feel proud of the fact that our renewals have increased, for it is truly a good sign that those who take the Magazine feel it’s worth taking again and we congratulate the Editors on the steady improvement in the reading matter. The increase in renewals over last year is $509.32. We regret the withdrawal of the names of some of our old subscribers. We beg the friends to remember that in supporting the Star of the West they are supporting the Temple.
As we have a balance we think it advisable to return to the National Spiritual Assembly $700.00 though asking at the same time for a continuance of the usual sum of $320.00 per month for next year.
The Guardian’s wish is that the BAHÁ’I MAGAZINE should be self-supporting and it is our hope that every Bahá’í will feel his or her obligation to support this important branch to the teaching work and help bring to pass the Guardian’s wish.
- MARGARET B. McDANIEL,
- Business Manager.
- MARGARET B. McDANIEL,
PUBLISHING[edit]
The Publishing Committee wishes to submit the following report, giving you an account of its activities during the past year. In order that you and all the friends may get a picture, showing the development of the work of this Committee, it would be well to go back to the report submitted to you in 1924 from which we quote the following passage:
“Our appointment as Publishing Committee of the National Spiritual Assembly, putting into effect the instructions of Shoghi Effendi, brought us a deeper realization of the fundamental importance of the publishing activities, its direct relationship to all other activities such as Teaching, Temple, etc., its sacredness in preserving and spreading the very words of the Divine Manifestations, and finally its boundless possibilities of sound growth and development as the single Bahá’í enterprise whose very prosecution involves the accumulation of funds. Holding this in view, every detail of the work so far accomplished or planned has been to hasten the first stage of the ideal, namely, the consolidation of the publishing activities into a materially sound and efficient enterprise on such a scale as not merely to multiply the printing of books but also to begin the accumulation of surplus funds. This organization accomplished according to the best business
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THE IMPORTANCE OF BAHA’I PUBLICATIONS “Much of the progress of the Cause depends upon you, for more people are attracted through reading than by hearing lectures given. The first requisite, however, is that everything that is put before the public should be of the highest type, both literary and artistic. The Cause is in great need of first class publications.” —Letter to the Publishing Committee from Shoghi Effendi, through Ruhi Afnan Effendi, March 15, 1931. |
methods, the result, we confidently trust, will be the possession by the National Spiritual Assembly, in trust for all the believers, an income producing instrument vitally important to the realization of all our ideals.”
You will see that it was at this period that the Publishing Committee formed a definite plan for its future growth and organization. Since then we have earnestly endeavored to develop the activities upon these lines and in this way become part of the National organ and a vital instrument in the work of spreading the written Word, and at the same time establishing efficient business-like methods in order to become financially independent that we might be free to assist all Assemblies in turn to become part of a cooperative plan. It is the hope of the Publishing committee that it soon will be in a position to make its contribution to the National work on a sound economic basis. You will remember that in 1929, we adopted a ruling that all Assemblies and Groups purchasing books for resale would receive the regular trade discount of 33⅓ per cent on all orders regardless of quantity. This was done primarily to stimulate the circulation of the Literature which would result in turn in giving the opportunity to all Assemblies and Groups to benefit financially from the sale of each book, enabling them in this way to be self–supporting. The surplus in their treasury could then be their contribution to the National Fund. This Committee earnestly requests all individual believers to purchase all literature from their nearest Assembly, cooperating in this manner to the economic growth of the Cause. There is no doubt that this plan is gradually being adopted, but it is very gradual.
The aim of the Publishing Committee
at the present day is to become[Page 8]
only a wholesale and manufacturing
distributor, but this can only be accomplished
through the complete understanding
and co-operation of each
individual believer, the National Committees
and all Assembly Libraries,
to stimulate the circulation of Bahá’í
Literature. The Assemblies to become
the retail dealers, the individual
believer to purchase books from their
nearest Assembly at the list price, and
by doing this they are at the same time
contributing toward the support of the
Cause in their community. The Assemblies
in turn are then able to place
orders with the Publishing Committee
who through this active exchange and
co-operation will be financially in a
position to keep up a constant production
of Bahá’í literature.
The Publishing Committee finds it impractical to handle leaflet and pamphlet literature on an economic basis, recommended to the National Spiritual Assembly that all such literature be handled by the National Teaching Committee. This gradually developed into the following policy approved by the National Spiritual Assembly and adopted by the Publishing Committee in March; 1931.
“The Publishing Committee shall be regarded as a manufacturer and wholesale distributor of literature rather than a retail distributor, the function of the retail selling being more economically vested in the local Bahá’í libraries and general booksellers. Hereafter literature intended for free distribution shall be recommended by the Teaching Committee under separate appropriation from the National Spiritual Assembly. It is supplied for the use of the Teaching Committee by an appropriation from the National Spiritual Assembly to cover cost of such books as their needs require.”
In August, 1930, all leaflets and pamphlets in stock were distributed pro-rata to the Teaching Committee and all local Bahá’í Libraries as a gift from the Publishing Committee, stating in each case that in the future the Publishing Committee would only fill orders for leaflets and pamphlets in quantity lots, on the wholesale basis as above stated.
This donation amounted in a monetary value to $4608.63. Therefore, in our financial statement of the year ending March 31st, 1931, we will apparently not show a profit.
Appointments
In June, 1931. Mrs. C. R. Wood was appointed Recording Secretary, taking Miss Bertha Herklotz’s place, who resigned on account of her work at the National Secretariat.
In August, 1930, Mrs. C. R. Wood was appointed Financial Secretary, succeeding Mrs. Marie B. Moore, who resigned September 1st, 1930, on account of ill health.
Special Notes
The Publishing Committee is glad to say that their file of Bahá’í publications is almost complete and that it includes bound copies of the Star of the West, Volumes I to XX.
Mrs. Loulie Mathews presented to the Publishing Committee the plate of the original “Star Tablet” of the Báb, the original being in the British Museum as explained in the BAHÁ’I NEWS of March, 1931.
The Publishing Committee has adopted the following policy in regard to publishing literature in foreign languages in accordance with instructions from Shoghi Effendi as follows: “Concerning the matter of manuscripts compiled in foreign translations, I feel that from now on the National Assembly should concentrate its attention exclusively on publishing works in the English language. I trust that this will encourage friends in other parts of the world to undertake the publication of works in foreign tongues in their respective countries.”
The stock of plates, sheets and bound books, property of the Publishing Committee is still being stored at Little & Ives Co. and they are doing all shipping.
The sheets and bound stock of Bahá’í World, vol. II, was transferred from Grier Press, Chicago, to Little & Ives Co., New York, in December, 1930.
Selling Efforts
In June, 1930, we sent out 500 catalogs with a letter and a reproduction of article on Temple from Boston Transcript to booksellers, calling their attention to our literature and suggesting that they carry stock, pointing out that since the building of the Temple there would undoubtedly be great interest shown in the Cause.
Publicity
In March, 1931, we sent out to 750 Libraries a catalog with a letter calling attention to our literature and asking them to check up their indexing to see that all our titles were properly listed and to keep catalog on file so that in case of inquiries, they have information and know where to order.
Reprints of Baha’i Literature and New Works Published
(Details of new books, and of old books re-issued, have been given in BAHÁ’I NEWS during the year.)
Treasurer’s Report
This report will be completed for the year ending March 31st, 1931, and will be given as a separate report, through the National Treasurer,
- HORACE HOLLEY, Chairman
- LOULIE MATHEWS
- BERTHA HERKLOTZ,
- MARIE MOORE
- ROY C. WILHELM
- C. WOOD
- MARION LITTLE, Secretary
LEGAL[edit]
The members of your Legal Committee submit the following statement on matters referred to them for study and recommendation since the 1930 Convention, in response to the request issued to us by your secretary on February 18.
Our report is prefaced with an expression of our conviction that it is incumbent upon all the American believers to appreciate the importance of the responsibility placed upon us all by the Declaration of Trust, which establishes the status of each believer in relation to the National Spiritual Assembly, and by the Temple Indenture, which involves title to the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár building and land. These instruments, approved by the Guardian, create legal entities which can, if necessary, claim the protection of the civil courts of the land and serve as the corporate bodies through which our collective public action must be taken.
Reflecting the laws and principles revealed by the Manifestation, the Declaration of Trust has transformed the Cause in America from a group of people imbued with similar spiritual ideals into a corporate body henceforth taking its definite place in our national society. Unlike the early Christians, the Bahá’ís have not only the bond of faith and the ties of devotional practice, but also the power of a social structure unified by an ideal of justice expressed in a comprehensive code. The perpetual effort to harmonize the principles of love and justice in all Bahá’í matters will alone serve to develop a body of believers able to uphold the world order of Bahá’u’lláh.
The members of the Legal Committee, in all their deliberations, have sought solutions of the problems referred to them which could reconcile these two principles.
The following actions have been taken since our appointment last June:
Change in method of ballotting for
members of the National Spiritual Assembly.
A new method was proposed
by the Spiritual Assembly of South[Page 9]
Gate, California, to assure privacy to
each voter through the use of nine individual
ballots. This recommendation
was studied by the Legal Committee
and its adoption endorsed. The National
Assembly thereupon voted to
employ the new method in connection
with the Convention of 1931.
Method of holding properties.— As donations of real estate are from time to time made by believers, the question arises as to how the legal title to the various parcels, located in different parts of the country, should be rested to die National Spiritual Assembly. This question has two aspects, the legal and financial. In the case of the Temple property at Wilmette, the title was transferred under an Indenture of Trust naming the nine members of the Assembly as trustees for the benefit of the National Spiritual Assembly. The title could not be transferred directly to the National Assembly for the reason that State statutes limit the amount of real estate which can be held by religious bodies, and the addition of Green Acre and other real estate to the holdings of the Assembly would have created legal complications. Later, Green Acre was transferred under a similar Indenture. The matter again arose in connection with land donated by the Spiritual Assembly of Urbana, Illinois, and by Mr. Roy C. Wilhelm. The Legal Committee recommended that each and every piece of property so contributed should be held under a separate Indenture, a recommendation felt advisable not only for legal reasons but also in order to meet the difficulty that might arise in the event that any property or properties involved unexpected expense. By holding each property under a separate Indenture, the National Assembly cannot be made a party to lawsuits or attachments arising from circumstances surrounding the property, nor can the National Fund be attached to satisfy debts or other obligations thereof. By accepting this recommendation, the National Assembly has freed its spiritual and religious offices from undue pressure of a material nature.
Amendment to By-Laws. The believers have already been informed of the action taken by the National Assembly in amending Article VIII. Section 1 of the By-Laws, to make it possible for Bahá’ís unable to be physically present at local elections to cast their ballots.
Arbitration between individual Bahá’ís. Since the Guardian desires consultation on all matters affecting believers, the National Assembly has at times been requested to assist in resolving questions of a material nature arising between two individual Bahá’ís. The Legal Committee was requested to consider the matter and make a general recommendation as to the procedure in such cases. It was recommended that the National Assembly should not take jurisdiction of matters affecting individual believers in their business or personal rather than their Bahá’í relationships, but suggest that the Local Spiritual Assemblies ascertain the facts and endeavor to bring about just settlements. In this connection, it should be noted that an Assembly which takes up a case of this kind will do well to make it clear in advance whether the Assembly is to give an advisory opinion or whether its decision will be accepted as final. The right use of the principle of consultation will bring the administration of the Cause to complete fulfilment.
Temple contracts. Through the death of Major Burt, engineer, and Mr. Louis Bourgeois, architect, the contractual relations previously existing with them terminated and left certain matters to be adjusted with their estates. Some of these questions are still pending, and the National Assembly will report on them at a later time. The believers will appreciate the desire of the Assembly and Temple trustees to carry out all obligations assumed under contract with full justice. In discharging this responsibility, the trustees act as representatives of the entire body of believers. Under the Guardian’s instruction, no arrangement has ever been made for Temple interior designs, and the trustees have no authority to incur expense for them at the present time. The Temple trustees, of course, have no sources of income except appropriations by the National Assembly from its Temple and general Funds, or bequests and gifts to the Trustees for Temple purposes.
Local Incorporation. It has been reported through BAHÁ’I NEWS that the National Assembly passed favorably upon the recommendation of the Legal Committee that Local Assemblies desiring proper legal status should take steps to hold property under an Indenture, and not set up any form of incorporation which might confuse the Bahá’í status of members already provided for under the national Declaration of Trust. Certain difficulties have since become apparent in this suggestion, since an Indenture comes into being through the action of qualified individuals in constituting others as trustees. The only local Bahá’í body qualified to act is the Spiritual Assembly, and the adoption of an Indenture would require the Assembly to select as trustees believers not members of the Assembly itself. Further study may disclose the possibility of Local Assemblies adopting Declarations of Trust so defined as to accomplish for the local community what the national Declaration of Trust accomplishes for the believers throughout the United States and Canada. This is a matter to be reported at a later time.
Bahá’í Temple Unity and Green Acre Fellowship. The question of maintaining or dissolving these legal bodies, whose real functions ceased when the Temple and Green Acre properties were transferred to trustees for the benefit of the National Spiritual Assembly, is still under consideration. An attorney has been instructed to study the various State statutes bearing upon the matter and report to the Assembly.
Canadian incorporation. The question of incorporating the Canadian believers, so as to give them a legal status in relation to their civil courts, has been referred to a number of attorneys and final settlement has not yet been made.
While these various legal questions may seem to have little interest in comparison with the spiritual activities of the Cause, nevertheless they have a legitimate and necessary place in the work of the Cause, and true solutions of these matters at this stage of its development will serve to free its spirit and release its collective intelligence through later times.
- HORACE HOLLEY, Chairman
- ALLEN B. McDANIEL.
- LOUIS GREGORY
- SIEGFRIED SCHOPFLOCHER
- CARL SCHEFFLER
INTERNATIONAL CORRESPONDENCE[edit]
Before entering upon the detailed report of the work of this office, your international correspondent wishes first to express the deep appreciation and gratitude which she has experienced in being honored with this important charge, and the joy with which every service has been undertaken, even while conscious of her immature experience and inadequacy in handling matters of such vast scope and significance.
It has been the purpose of this department to seek to bring about more intimate and frequent communication between this country and those where the Cause is now established, even though in some cases, the representatives are very few in number, as notably in Denmark for instance.
At the beginning of the year the first
move was to write to each National[Page 10]
Spiritual Assembly and to the International
Bureau at Geneva, describing
the newly apportioned work of the National
Secretariat and giving an account
of the Convention. A copy of the flash
light photograph taken at the time of
the Convention was also mailed to each
National Assembly and Geneva, and
to the Guardian, as well as to several
of the distant friends like Miss Alexander
in Japan, and those in South
Africa.
General letters to the National Assemblies and Geneva were sent out under the following dates: May 12th, June 25th, Nov. 30th, and on February 17th, to all foreign addresses listed in the Bahá’í World, Vol. III.
The reprint of the article from the Literary Digest was mailed to all National Assemblies and to many individuals, as was also the case with the circular presenting the Temple reprint from the Technology Review.
Copies of all letters sent out have been forwarded to the Secretariat for review by the National Spiritual Assembly while in session and for subsequent placing in the files.
Beside the letters to the National Assemblies many opportunities have been found to communicate with individuals, and with groups of believers.
The student group of the American University at Beirut; Miss Holsapple; Mrs. Carey in South Africa; Miss Wright, during her sojourn in England, about conditions in Germany; Mr. Dunn in Australia, who inquired anxiously regarding the authenticity of the Prayer Book.
Yadollah Effendi of Akká who had sent some pomegranates through Mrs. Bedikian for the National Spiritual Assembly received a courteous letter of thanks and appreciation.
The important matter of believers from foreign countries who were intending to come to America was given special and detailed consideration in which the Government regulations governing immigration were quoted extensively, and the request made that all National Spiritual Assemblies and the International Bureau at Geneva inform all local Communities of the necessary steps to be taken in order to comply with the laws of the United States as well as with certain courtesies which might be due from Bahá’ís in distant lands to Bahá’ís in this country, so that in future all friends arriving at any port of the United States may receive loving and helpful consideration and assistance.
In August, 1930, your secretary was able to visit the only Bahá’í resident of Denmark, Miss Sorensen, at Copenhagen, and subsequently to meet with the friends in Berlin. Both of these visits proved of great interest and value, especially in Berlin where at that time much uncertainty still existed regarding the Administration due to the insidious propaganda of Mrs. White and Herr Herrigel. It was a real joy to meet these friends and to seek to establish in their minds the logical and real proofs of the need of the Guardianship. Miss Sorensen, however, must not be included among those who do not understand, for Miss Sorensen is one of the most enlightened and spiritual servants whom it has been the joy of this servant to meet, and it is very significant that the Guardian has made exception in the matter of the publication of the Danish translation of Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era, a work for which Miss Sorensen is responsible.
In September this servant spent several days in Geneva for the purpose of consultation with the Bahá’í friends whom Shoghi Effendi has charged with the vastly important work of the International Bureau, and much valuable information was received and suggestions given for the closer acquaintance with the personnel and work of the various communities and groups throughout Europe. At that time, it developed that communication was much too rare and uncertain owing to the uncertainty of the addresses of believers in different localities. A movement was consequently set on foot to make as complete a canvas as possible in order to provide the Bureau with accurate information which might be available for any friend wishing to travel to foreign countries, and also to instill into the minds of the friends everywhere the importance of looking definitely to the center in Europe which the Guardian had established as a sort of “Clearing House” for accurate information, and the distribution of literature in the languages in which the Revelation has now been translated.
The work of the International Bureau is becoming very extensive and your secretary feels that in the near future, when the friends in different countries come to realize the value of the services of the Bureau, which is now equipped to translate all communications into French, German, Italian and Spanish as well as English and Esperanto, this will become a most important channel for the dissemination of the Holy Word, as well as of the news of the important affairs of the Cause. The place which the International Bureau holds in relation to all the International representation which now exists in Geneva cannot be over estimated in regard to its importance.
A few days in Italy put this servant into touch with certain of the friends there, although the Cause is not yet well established in Italy.
All correspondence of whatever nature which has been received has been promptly answered. On request of the National Assembly at Teheran a letter of welcome was sent to the newly appointed Persian Counsellor to Washington on his arrival in this country. The matter of Noury Sadik Bey, who very strongly stated that there should be no use of the name “Spiritual Assembly” when writing to Turkey has recently been somewhat clarified by the receipt of a second letter from him, in which he states that Turkey is not now in a condition to have a Spiritual Assembly, and it cannot comply with the laws of the country which contains all religious organizations.
The Assembly letters from Haifa have been graciously acknowledged and also the receipt of the regular weekly edition of the Bahá’í paper published in Lahore, India. This publication deserves especial notice as it is well edited and ambitious in its presentation of the Holy Utterances and the news of the Cause, together with a list of publications in English. Persian and Urdu. Your secretary respectfully recommends the support of this splendid paper.
But few letters have been received from non-Bahá’í inquirers about the Cause, and all of these have been promptly answered, and in every case some literature sent as well as addresses given where the information about the travelling teachers might be obtained.
It has been a source of no little
apprehension that to all the correspondence
sent out, and all the photographs,
together with printed literature about
the Temple, etc., not a word of
acknowledgement has been received.
Your secretary is entirely at a loss to
understand why this should be the case
and believes that as yet the value of
prompt and frequent communication
has not been universally felt by the adherents
of the Cause. Of course, the
establishment of the department for
special international correspondence is
as yet a new idea, the importance of
which may not have become fully apparent,
but on the other hand, it has
been found that our dear Victoria
Bedikian has been so utterly untiring
in her efforts to link up the world in
Bahá’í relationship that much of the
correspondence has been addressed to
her. She, in true generous spirit has[Page 11]
shared the knowledge of this with your
Secretary, but it is to be hoped that
the regular channels of official correspondence
will become more and more
e medium for communication between
the friends so that only well-ordered
and officially supervised information
may be the result.
It is too early to expect replies at this time to the general letters sent out on February, which were planned to convey the loving Náwruz greetings of the National Spiritual Assembly to every individual assembly which could be reached through the medium of the Year Book address list, to give accurate information as to the extent of the fire in the Temple, and also to request a correct list of addresses of all National and Local officers, of groups and individuals.
This circular letter, covering three points as it did, was made to serve the purposes both of the National Secretariat and the Year Book Committee.
At this juncture a letter has come to hand from the National Spiritual Assembly of Persia at Teheran, under date of February 7th, which acknowledges the receipt of our letter of November 12th, and comments on the great advance of the Temple work with the utmost enthusiasm and interest. We note too, that special attention has been given to the subject of emigration from Persia, and that sufficient notice should be given by those intending to undertake the journey and definite instructions sent out.
Enclosed in this letter is also a copy of one addressed to Rafiullah Khan Motahedeh, which seems to be a reply to his asking information regarding the best routes to be followed by the American friends intending to go to Persia. As this communication is of great importance, it is to be hoped that Mr. Motahedeh will at once communicate its contents to the Editor of the News Letter in order that they may be shared generally with the friends.
And now in closing, may your secretary again express her gratitude for the privilege of being permitted to serve the Cause in this capacity, while she humbly apologizes for any omissions or commissions which may have appeared in this report, due to inexperience and limited ability.
- By: NELLIE S. FRENCH.
- International Correspondent
- for the National Secretariat.
ARCHIVES[edit]
Miss Gertrude Buikema, Secretary, whose sister died recently, requested me to write you for the Archives Committee.
The splendid work of Mrs. Corinne True, together with Mrs. Stuart W. French, Mrs. Edward Struven and Miss Gertrude Buikema, in obtaining, copying, indexing and filing, the Original Tablets of ’Abdu’l-Bahá in the Archives, has made considerable progress during the past year. In July, 1930, three hundred and fifty had been indexed. This service, as you know, is preparatory to the publishing of another volume of Tablets. We would again urge the friends, who have not done so, to send in their Original Tablets together with the translations, if they have them.
The outstanding shipment to the Archives during the past year, is a trunk and box of material from Mr. Edward Getsinger, who has sent the research work of a life-time with also many precious things belonging to both Lua Getsinger (deceased) and himself.
Your Custodian urges the National Spiritual Assembly to prepare as soon as possible, a room in the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár to receive the boxes of material already in hand, and that will be sent, now that the Temple has arisen. By: ALBERT WINDUST. Custodian MRS. E. D. STRUVEN MRS. A. F. MATTHISEN MISS GERTRUDE BUIKEMA
EDITING TABLETS OF ‘ABDU’L-BAHA[edit]
Under separate cover, I am mailing you typed copies of the Index of Tablets that the Editing Committee has gone over. We have examined each one of these Tablets separately and made a card index inside the typed analysis made by our dear Nellie French. All the originals have been returned to the Archives, filed alphabetically and can very easily be referred to. Much remains to be done but my trip to Haifa, Feb. 3rd. ends my work for the present.
ECONOMICS[edit]
With reference to report of the Economics Committee, about all we can say is that the organization of the committee is under way and the plan of action adopted. I have had replies from only three people so far.
I believe that most of the references are contained in the Geneva Outline and will check this over as soon as possible, probably starting some copying on them.
I regret that more progress cannot be reported, but trust this will enable you to make whatever report is necessary.
PUBLICITY[edit]
Since its appointment the last week in June, 1930, the Publicity Committee has laid a foundation for the release of Bahá’í information and news to the press of the United States and Canada, through the medium of the Local Assemblies and also direct.
The plan followed has consisted in the issuing of regular communications to Local Assemblies with a view to developing their local publicity resources as well as securing their cooperation in the placing of material prepared by the National Committee.
In appointing the Committee, the National Spiritual Assembly took another action regarding publicity in securing the services of Mr. Odell, a trained newspaper man of Washington, D. C., for writing and placing feature articles. It has been made clear that this part of the general plan cannot be satisfactorily applied at the present time.
Most notable this year have been the article “A Temple of Light” by Allen B. McDaniel, published in Technology Review, of which 12,000 reprints have been distributed throughout the world, and the reference to the Temple in Literary Digest. The result of the fire during Temple construction was also widespread publicity.
A conference called by Mr. McDaniel in Washington during December with Mr. Odell and three members of the Committee, considered the matter of how Mr. Odell’s services can best be utilized and arrived at the following conclusions: first, that release of information and news representing the Cause can best be effected through facilities developed by and in the Cause itself; and, second, that certain special features like the Temple and the international teaching activities of Miss Martha Root can effectively be assigned to Mr. Odell for feature articles, under conditions mutually satisfactory to him and to the N. S. A.
Following this conference, the
Committee secretary has prepared a
list of 500 leading newspapers. These
have been placed on stencils, to be used
at monthly or semi-monthly intervals.
A capital cost of about $20.00. and a
monthly cost for postage. addressing
and multigraphing of approximately
the same amount, will enable the
National Assembly, through its Bahá’i
News Service, to present the Cause to
the public press in all the cities and
larger towns of the country. This
plan combined with the present series
of letters and articles for the Local
Assemblies and amplified to include[Page 12]
unusual or emergency news and occasions
as they arise, was recommended
by the Committee to the National Assembly
in February, and approved by
that body.
Among the subjects already given to Local Assemblies or direct to the press are: the meaning of the Anniversary of the Bab; Bahá’í education, with reference to Green Acre and Geyserville; the Temple; announcement of the building contract; inter-racial amity and the Master’s warning to America; National Teaching activities; Bahá’í World, volume III; and reproductions of the Literary Digest page illustrating and describing the Temple.
As 300 copies of The Bahá’í World were allotted to the News Service for publicity purposes, their use is reported as follows: to review editors of newspapers and magazine, 100; to reference library of newspapers and the large news syndicates, like Associated Press, 54; to peace, international, religious and educational organizations, 99 ; to editors of dictionaries andencyclopedias, 4; to individuals (friends of the Cause in positions of influence), 11—a total of 268 copies. The balance of 32 copies will be used to the best advantage before the Convention.
During March, the committee secretary cooperated with the Publishing Committee in the development of methods for securing newspaper and magazine reviews of all Bahá’í books published henceforth, and also in the preparation of a list of Public Libraries for sending a copy of the Bahá’í Catalog and letters emphasizing the value of this literature.
On March 28 a letter was issued to Local Assemblies together with three suggested newspaper articles: On the Guardian’s translation of the Iqan, on references to the Cause by various prominent people, and on the Master’s message to the American people. The article on the Iqan was also sent to the list of five hundred newspapers. An article has also been prepared on the subject of the Annual Convention and the Temple, to be sent to the same newspaper list, and to the Assemblies, about April 15.
It seems advisable in this report to mention the series of newspaper articles prepared by a previous Publicity Committee and sent to all Local Assemblies and National Committees in April, 1929. Those articles were prepared for use in connection with public Bahá’í meetings, the visit of well known Bahá’í teachers, etc., and answers the question of what to give the papers raised by a number of Assemblies this year which received visits from such teachers as Miss Martha Root and Mrs. Keith Ransom-Kehler. Copies of the series are still available at the Secretariat, West Englewood.
With the extension of this work during the rest of the current Bahá’í year, the Committee is prepared to issue a minimum of two articles a month, one to Assemblies and one to 500 newspapers, and recommends the advisability of giving each Assembly a set of Bahá’í illustrations—a photograph of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the Temple and a few carefully selected international pictures from The Bahá’í World —in inexpensive printed form, for reproduction by local newspapers in connection with articles used from time to time.
Shoghi Effendi sent Mr. McDaniel, chairman of this Committee, a message concerning the publicity activities through his secretary in a letter dated August 30, 1930, which is quoted to conclude this report: “Concerning the publicity work Shoghi Effendi hopes that it will carry on its work with great foresight and wisdom and succeed in spreading the teachings throughout America. Such an activity is an essential phase of teaching and will undoubtedly create more and more work for the teachers that are busy on the field.”
- ALLEN B. McDANIEL, Chairman
- STANWOOD COBB
- FLORENCE MORTON
- HORACE HOLLEY, Secretary
GREEN ACRE[edit]
The Green Acre Properties Committee, consisting of Mrs. McDaniel, Mr. F. St. George Spendlove and Mr. Henry Green met several times at the close of the 1930 Season to discuss ways and means for the coming year.
In accordance with the expressed wish of the Guardian:—“It is my earnest prayer that the forthcoming gathering at Green Acre may serve as a testing ground for the application of those ideals and standards that are the distinguishing features of the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh,” the National Spiritual Assembly during the past two years has adopted the policy of developing at Green Acre a teaching and training center. The present committee is earnestly trying to follow their instructions.
In October, 1930, the National Spiritual Assembly voted $650.00 for minor repairs to all the property and a fire escape on the Inn. which is required by law. A long list of items was made out for work to be done as weather permitted and Mr. Green, who lives in Portsmouth, N. H., has been looking after this, cooperating with Mr. Bert Hagedorn, the faithful caretaker of Green Acre.
The reports received by the Committee during the Fall and Winter have been very gratifying. Mrs. Valentine, who did so well under such crowded kitchen conditions last Season will have charge of the Inn and Tea House, meals to be served at the Inn, instead of at the Tea House and board and rooms may be had at varying prices to suit varying pocketbooks. We expect the Inn will be open from the middle of June to the middle of September.
During July and August, the Inn and Fellowship House will be reserved for Bahá’ís and those interested in studying the Teachings. The Program Committee has planned classes, lectures and conventions on various subjects related to the Cause and we hope that many Bahá’ís will come to Green Acre for at least two weeks of their holiday time and bring friends who wish to attend the classes and are really interested in learning of the New World Order. There will be classes suitable to all ages. Fellowship House will be open during the whole season and we hope to have Miss Shanks, who was our very efficient and charming hostess last year, in the same capacity. This year, there will be a dormitory for men at Fellowship as well as one for women.
Before and after the Program in June and September, the Inn and Fellowship will be open to guests who wish a quiet and restful place.
With the help and cooperation of the friends, we feel sure this Season will be profitable to all who come and that Green Acre will in time become a truly representative Bahá’í Center.
Those wishing information concerning accommodations may write Mrs. Flora Valentine, 142 Regent Street, Saratoga Springs, N. Y.
By: MARGARET B. McDANIEL,
- Chairman.
THE BAHA’I WORLD[edit]
(Volume Three)
In recent issues of the BAHÁ’I NEWS LETTER have appeared the announcement by the Publishing Committee of the completion of Volume III, The Bahá’í World, and also Shoghi Effendi’s letters to the undersigned telling in detail his wishes regarding the publication thereof. We re fer you to them.
The National Spiritual Assembly
have appointed a Chairman for this
Committee, Mrs. Stuart W. French.
501 Bellefontaine Street, Pasadena,
California, who will devote her attention[Page 13]
to the collecting of material for
Volume IV.
We believe it is timely to call attention to the following request of the guardian, as published in the Introduction of Volume III—
In preparation for Volume IV, which is to cover the period from April, 1930, to April, 1932, Shoghi Effendi, through the Editorial Committee, earnestly requests all Local Spiritual Assemblies, Groups and Committees throughout the Bahá’í world, to plan with their respective National Spiritual Assemblies the gathering of suitable material for that volume. Photographs and articles of interest may be forwarded at any time. Reports to be incorporated on the ‘Survey of Current Bahá’í Activities in the East and West’ should be in the hands of the Committee not later than January 1, 1932. The Contents of Volume III will suggest the various materials desired for such an important and historic publication as The Bahá’í World. Articles and photographs that show the present progress of the Cause, as well as records of past events, are particularly desired. . . . Correspondence should be addressed to the Editorial Committee, The Bahá’í World, care of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States and Canada. Evergreen Cabin, West Englewood, N. J., United States of America.”
- ALBERT WINDUST,
- Editorial Secretary.
- ALBERT WINDUST,
P. S.— Shoghi Effendi has written the Publishing Committee, expressing gratitude and appreciation for their labors in producing Volume III. They will, no doubt, include this in their report.
THE BAHA’I WORLD (Volume Four)
The following is the report of progress of the work of the committee for Volume IV of the Bahá’í World:
Your committee has not been successful in holding a meeting when all members could be present; but the chairman met with Mr. Albert Windust early in July, 1930, and from him gleaned much valuable information regarding the method of securing material.
A second meeting was held in New York early in October, 1930, with Mrs. La Farge, Mr. Holley and the chairman present.
At this meeting, a general plan of procedure was outlined, in which names of possible contributors were proposed and a definite time set for the completion of the collection of material to be sent to the Guardian.
Since that time all communication has been carried on by correspondence.
The date set for the final reception of all material was November 1st, 1931, and this will provide for any slight delay so that the Guardian may have all in his hands in January, 1932.
Many letters have been sent out by your chairman and the most important piece of work undertaken is the arrangement of a complete and up-to-date list of all addresses in various countries where the Cause is represented. To this end letters have been sent to all National Spiritual Assemblies, and to all Assemblies, groups and individuals whose names appear in the present volume 1928-1930. This does not include the addresses of the Assemblies or groups in this country because that list will be complied after the coming elections in April.
It is hoped to establish a Historical Department in which short historical sketches made by early believers may be preserved, with photographs of the places in which ‘Abdu’l-Bahá spoke when in this country. The reason for this department is that in some instances, as notably Pasadena, it is already very difficult to get exact information on the event of the visit of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. While we recognize that in time a full history will be written of this all-important event, the present intention is to preserve these records before they have passed out of the recollection of some of the believers.
It is not possible of course, to compile a complete history in one volume but carrying the subject through several subsequent editions will preserve the records.
It has been the aim of your chairman to follow in every way the instructions of the Guardian to seek contributions from the “best minds in the Cause.” Concerning the compiling of a new list of addresses, this instruction was given to Mrs. Bedikian before the work of the present Vol. IV was begun, and now that it is found necessary to render this service for the volume Mrs. Bedikian has graciously turned her list over to the committee and it will be checked over and compared with the replies which are received to the hundred or more letters issued under date of February l7th in order to make as correct and complete a list as possible.
Much material has already come to hand which had been collected by Mr. Holley and for this and all the splendid co-operation of the various members of the committee your chairman desires to express her deepest appreciation and gratitude.
By: NELLIE S. FRENCH, Chairman.
- Staff of Editors, Vol. IV:
- America—Mrs. Nellie S. French,
Chairman; Mrs. Wanden Matthews LaFarge, Mr. Horace Holley, Mr. Albert Windust, Editorial Secretary, Mrs. Victoria Bedikian, Photograph Editor.
- Great Britain—Mr. George P. Simpson.
- France—Mme, Gaston Hesse.
- Germany—Dr. Hermann Grossman.
- Palestine,—Soheil Effendi Afnan,
Ruhi Effendi Afnan, Miss Effie Baker, Photographs.
- Persia——’Abdu’l Husayn Dihqan.
- India, Burma—Hishmatulláh.
- International—Mrs. Emogene
Hoagg (International Bureau at Geneva)—Miss Martha Root.
REPORT OF THE TEMPLE TRUSTEES[edit]
For the Benefit of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States and Canada for the year 1930-31
During the past year there have been 11 meetings of the Temple trustees, beginning with the organization meeting on April 28, 1930, following the last Annual Convention and ending with the last meeting of April 30, 1931, just preceding the 23d Annual Convention. The meeting on November 16, 1930, was held at Evanston, Illinois, and included a visit to the Temple for a first-hand inspection of the construction work.
The Christ is reported to have said “by their fruits ye shall know them” and so the best report that your trustees can make at this time is to refer the believers to the Temple structure. In its simple dignity and beauty, the present structure is an impressive demonstration of the results of the activities of your trustees since the last Annual Convention.
You will recall that at the Annual
Convention of a year ago your trustees
reported to you that the preliminary
steps had been taken toward the erection
of the superstructure of the Temple.
These steps included the decision
to erect the entire framework rather
than the First story complete as originally
planned; the final revision of
the architectural plans by our late
brother, Louis Bourgeois; the beginning[Page 14]
of the preparation of the plans
and specifications for the structure and
its necessary utilities (plumbing, heating,
ventilation and light); the further
study of the material for the exterior
ornamentation; and the preparations
for the securing of estimates and bids
and the awarding of a contract.
During May and June and the first half of July, 1930, Mr. Bourgeois completed his final design, the structural and utility plans and specifications were prepared by Mr. Benj. S. Shapiro and his associates under the immediate direction and supervision of The Research Service, Inc., and a suitable list of contractors was made with a view of getting their cooperation in the securing of bids.
Bids from nine of these selected contractors were received and opened in the office of the Secretary of the Trustees just prior to their meeting at Green Acre on Aug. 23-25, 1930. After a careful consideration of all the bids and conferences with representatives of the three lowest bidders, your trustees took action awarding a contract to the George A. Fuller Company of New York and Chicago on Monday, August 25, 1930.
Actual construction work on the Temple began early in September, and due to unusually favorable weather conditions during the Fall and Winter, has proceeded with exceptional progress.
Special attention has been given throughout the work to the securing of the very highest grade of material and the best workmanship. Inspections recently made by members of our Advisory Board and specialists in the fields of engineering and construction, indicate that the results have borne out and justified these efforts. The periodic and continuous testing of materials such as steel and cement, sand, gravel, etc., and faithful inspection during construction have produced a structure which your specialists believe will stand as an enduring monument to our beloved Cause.
The contract with the George A. Fuller Company provided for the entire superstructure framework to be enclosed with glass dome and doors and windows, with complete plumbing equipment, and provisions for other utilities. Through the splendid cooperation of the general contractor, the sub–contractors, and the engineers, substantial savings were effected so that it has been possible to include additional work which now provides the Temple structure with about 60 per cent of the heating system, 20 per cent of the ventilation equipment, and 10 per cent of the electrical work. It is extremely fortunate that these utilities have been installed at a time when favorable building conditions have afforded very low costs, and that are available for the protection and preservation of the entire existing structure. Funds are needed in the near future in order that these utilities may be completed, especially during this period of business depression and unusually low building costs.
The Research Service, Inc., has continued its interesting study of materials for the exterior ornamental work, which your trustees hope may be started during the coming year. At their meeting on June 29, 1930, the Temple Trustees voted to approve the recommendation of their engineers for the tentative adoption of a suitable form of architectural concrete for the larger masses of this exterior ornamentation. The finer and lighter ornamental work will undoubtedly be made of some suitable metal alloy.
During the year, your trustees have given considerable time and thought to the settlement of a claim made by Mrs. H. J. Burt, the widow of Major Burt, who was our former structural engineer, for services which had been rendered by him subsequent to the completion of the Temple foundation structure about eight-and-a-half years ago, and also the settlement of the contracts for services and for the studio which the National Assembly had entered into June 27, 1925, and April 6, 1926, respectively with Mr. Louis Bourgeois. These matters have been handled by a special committee of the National Legal Committee, which refers to them in their annual report.
- Respectfully submitted,
- TEMPLE TRUSTEES,
- A. B. McDANIEL., Chairman.
REPORT OF GREEN ACRE TRUSTEES[edit]
For the Benefit of the National Assembly of the Bahá’is of the United States and Canada for the Year 1930-31
Meetings of the Green Acre trustees were held at the same time and place as those of the Temple Trustees as has been referred to in the report of the latter body.
At the meeting of the Green Acre trustees on May 25, 1930, it was decided to continue the past policy with relation to Green Acre; namely, to develop it, in accordance with the instructions of our beloved Guardian, as a teaching and training center for the believers in the Cause. It was further decided to open the Green Acre Inn which had been closed the previous summer, and to utilize the rooms in connection with the Tea House, which was used entirely for the providing of meals during the season.
The Green Acre season of 1930 was one of the most interesting and fruitful that has been held there in recent years. A large number of the friends attended the New England teaching conference and the Inter-Racial Amity meetings. The regular classes conducted by Mr. Vail, Mr. Gregory, and others, had very satisfactory attendance and unusual interest was manifested, especially through participation in the informal discussions that generally followed the formal address of the meeting. During the last two weeks of August, the facilities of the Tea House were severely taxed, and great credit should be given to Mrs. Flora Valentine for her handling of the boarding and lodging of the people under the handicap of lack of suitable space and sufficient help.
Early in the Fall, the trustees authorized the new Properties Committee, consisting of Mrs. Margaret B. McDaniel, Chairman, Mr. George Spendlove, and Mr. Henry Green, to arrange for the necessary repairs and improvements at Green Acre during the Fall and Winter months, with a view to maintaining the various properties and providing for the efficient employment of the caretaker, Mr. Bert Hagedorn. The Properties Committee has reported that very satisfactory progress has been made in this work, including the installation of a fire escape at the Inn (required by the laws of the State of Maine), the repair of the road from the main highway to the Inn, painting and repair of the Inn roof, and a large number of minor repairs of the Fellowship House, the Tea House, and the Inn.
Your trustees at their meeting on February 1 and March 16, 1931, authorized a contract with Mrs. Flora Valentine for the season of 1931 that will provide for the fullest utilization of the Inn, the cottages and the Tea House for the believers during the program season of July and August. During June and September, these facilities will be open to the public, but subject to the supervision of the Properties Committee.
Your trustees have been working on
the completion of the property plans
for the five parcels of properties that
are now held under the Green Acre
Indenture of Trust. An effort will be
made to make a study of certain sections[Page 15]
of these properties, such as the
land lying between the Ball cottage and
the cottages on the Green Acre property,
with a view to providing additional
housing facilities for the future.
The trustees believe that last year’s season at Green Acre confirmed the policy which has been adopted and it is hoped that an increasing number of friends will attend the teaching and training seasons in the years to come. During the last few years, a number of the believers have purchased property in or near Green Acre with a view to providing permanent summer homes. It is the belief of the trustees that as the years pass by a growing Bahá’í community will serve as a true testing ground to demonstrate the New World Order.
- Respectfully submitted,
- GREEN ACRE TRUSTEES,
- A. B. McDANIEL, Chairman.
RESEARCH COMMITTEE[edit]
The principal work of the Research Committee during the year now closing has been directed toward study of the Prayer Book put out last year, under instructions from the National Spiritual Assembly to add to each selection a reference to its source and to suggest such revisions of the text as we might consider necessary.
It was felt, therefore, that the first phase of this work should be the identification of each prayer and other selection, with a reference to its original published translation if possible or to some other authentic source. Since both texts are full of grammatical errors, this stage included much work necessary to secure correct reverential English. And since Shoghi Effendi has approved the pluralization of the prayers in group meetings and many of the friends experience difficulty in reading these plurals into the text, it was decided to submit the revision with two versions of every prayer except those few that should never be pluralized; the singular form appearing on an odd-numbered page and its corresponding pluralized form on the other page of the same sheet. It was decided to submit this revision on loose-leaf sheets of Lefax size with gold edges and to recommend ring binders in dark blue leather stamped in gold; one binder to contain prayers only, and another to hold such devotional readings and notes as might properly find place in it. These notes would include the proper use of the Greatest Name and of prayers for special occasions, the specific obligations concerning prayer and fasting and the holding of feasts, the characteristics of reverential English, and a few facts about Persian and Arabic that should help English-speaking Bahá’ís to a better understanding of the translations.
Practically all of the references had been secured and the work of revision was well along its way, when word came from the National Assembly, through Mrs. French and Mr. Lunt, to the effect that Shoghi Effendi had consented to a reprinting of the “Prayers and Meditations” pending the time when he can take up this great work himself.
All English-speaking believers should be most happy to know that Shoghi Effendi has declared his purpose to give to us a new translation of the prayers, which only his Divine Wisdom can properly reconstruct. By: (MRS.) JOSEPHINE F. CLARK,
MRS. MARY M. RABB
MRS. ROSA V. WINTERBURN
MRS. JOSEPHINE F. CLARK, Secretary
MR. FRANK D. CLARK, Chairman
ACTIVITIES OF INTER-REGIONAL TEACHING COMMITTEE FOR NEW YORK, NEW JERSEY AND CONNECTICUT[edit]
After receiving the Teaching Committee’s circular letter about their plan for regional teaching work, and at the suggestion of the New York Spiritual Assembly, a meeting of the believers representing New York City, West Englewood, Montclair, Yonkers, Newark, Asbury Park and New Haven, was called to be held at West Englewood and New York City, October 25 and 26.
The first meeting in West Englewood was for the purpose of studying along the lines suggested by the National Teaching Committee; the methods to be pursued by spreading the Cause of God in these regions. A great many took part in the discussions, and many helpful suggestions were received. Many recited their difficulties and the methods they used to remove them. One important suggestion was that the believers themselves should, before attending teaching work, learn the deeper teachings; they should endeavor to prepare themselves in such a way as to be able to answer the questions of all kinds of people. It was felt that this great Cause is a universal remedy, therefore must contain every answer that a sincere seeker asks. All we need do is to drink deeply of this life-giving water that Bahá’u’lláh has provided.
Another suggestion was that we be more positive about the claims of Bahá’u’lláh. We should not try to make the Cause acceptable to people by acceding to their whims and notions. In other words, we should make it plain that the Bahá’ís have a clear message for the world. It was felt that this would be a natural consequence if the teachers themselves were deeply impressed.
A Committee was formed consisting of one member from each community, and one to represent the isolated believers in this region. Our work was to coordinate our activities, to give an added impetus to the teaching work. We were to make every effort for opportunities to give the message; to find openings in each community where people were willing to share their platform with us. We were to make every effort to induce the isolated believers to associate actively with their nearest Assembly, and thus add efficiently to their individual work. (Notes by Allah Khan.)
The next day we met in New York City and held a large meeting there, at which a resolution was passed that a Regional District Committee be formed to consist of one member from each participating Assembly or group, they to meet and select a member at large to represent isolated believers. The Chairman of the Conference was to call this Committee together, and a letter was sent to each one of these districts calling them to a meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 1930, at 119 West 57th Street, New York City.
At that meeting West Englewood was represented by Mr. Allah Kahn; New York City, by Mr. Harris, who was elected permanent chairman of that Committee; Newark, N. J., by Mr. Henry Ackerman; Connecticut, by Mrs. Jeanne Rouhangees Bolles of Washington, Conn.; Westchester County, by Mrs. Maude Gaudreaux of Yonkers, Mrs. Gaudreaux being elected Secretary of the Committee, with Mrs. Lola Donaldson as Assistant Corresponding Secretary and Miss Gertrude Gewertz of New York City Young People’s group as Recording Secretary. Mr. Kinney and Mrs. Ford were elected the Regional Teachers.
Owing to great pressure of work,
Mr. Harris was obliged to resign as
Chairman of the Committee and New
York City representative—hence, on
account of this action, another meeting
was not held until January 14th.
At this meeting, Mr. Allah Khan of
West Englewood was elected Chairman
of the Committee. The Secretary[Page 16]
was instructed to write to the districts
not represented, to which action a beautiful
response came from Montclair
stating that temporarily their activities
were curtailed owing to a serious accident
to two of their members as well
as other sickness amongst the believers
there, and saying that our beloved
Auntie Victoria Bedekian had been
elected their representative on our
Committee.
The Committee meetings are being held on the third Thursday of each month at Mr. Kinney’s apartment. At the third meeting, on the 19th February, plans were made for a public meeting to be held in Yonkers, and to perfect details for this another meeting was held the following week, which was fully attended. The public meeting in Yonkers was given on March 6th, in the Warburton Hall, with a fair attendance. West Englewood turning out most generously in their cooperative spirit, for which the Yonkers Spiritual Assembly wish to publicly acknowledge their deep appreciation. Mr. Saffa Kinney was the speaker, taking for his subject “The Destiny of Man.” We feel that several new friends were attracted by this beloved teacher’s eloquent and illuminating address, having expressed their desire to attend our study group, which is held each Friday evening at 192 Buckingham Road, Yonkers. We were very fortunate also to have delightful music rendered by Mrs. Harriet Morgan Kelsey, pianist, and Miss Dorothy Wright, soprano.
Mr. Kinney has also spoken twice in West Englewood during the past two months, attracting many hearts.
Letters have been written to some of the colored friends in White Plains, with the object in view of arranging if possible for a public meeting at one of the colored Churches there, where happy contact has already been established. If this materializes it is hoped that we may be able to have Mr. Gregory speak, and that all the friends in the vicinity will cooperate with us with the utmost enthusiasm to make it a great success.
At one of our Committee meetings Mr. Kinney suggested that each member study the Acts of the Apostles. This was a command of ’Abdu-l-Bahá, and one can easily see why, when it is noted that the Apostles worked as one soul, ever watching for the confirmations of the Holy Spirit in their meetings. May the confirmations oi the Holy Spirit descend upon each one of us, so that we may forget all save the forward march of this Holy Cause, and face our beloved Guardian as one soul to do his command.
ALLAH KHAN, Chairman,
MAUDE GAUDREAUX, Secretary,
LOLA DONALDSON, Asst. Cor. Sec’y.
GERTRUDE GEWERTZ, Recording Sec’y.
LETTER FROM[edit]
The Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of Karachi. Allabu-Abha!
We are happy to impart, at the start of this circular, the news of the perfect health and happiness of the beloved of the people of Bahá, Shoghi Rabbani, may our souls be a ransom to his loving kindness, and to announce his arrival in the Holy Land of Light.
Sometime ago, this Assembly, having secured the approval of the Guardian, purchased a piece of plantation, which has an area of about 3639 sq. yr., and is located in one of the most appropriate sites of this city. The Assembly is now planning to erect on this land, a humble but graceful building to serve as “Hazirat’ul Kuds,” or a Mashriqu’l Adhkár, and in order to add to the significance and the majesty of the Cause, at the same time free the Friends from the cumbersome burden of renting.
It is an evident fact that the undertaking of such a sacred enterprise, will be impossible without the material help of the devoted friends of God. For the Assembly will not be able to provide the expenses all by itself. For this reason, we wish to ask for the cooperation of all the friends of East and of the West, whether man, woman or child, and entreat them to contribute towards this purpose as a duty towards a sacred end. A duty whose basis and whose aim is help and cooperation.
His Holiness Bahá’u’lláh, may His name be exalted and hailed, has said: “Humble thyself before Me, that I may graciously visit thee. Arise for triumph of My Cause, that in the world thou mayest obtain victory.”
The arrival in this city of the renowned teacher, Miss Martha Root, her interviews with the influential persons of this nation and her impressive addresses in the various gatherings and Universities, will surely bear wondrous fruits in the future. After spending a few days here, she left for Simla, the summer residence of the Governor of India. She was escorted by Mr. Isfendiyar Behtiyari.
The Tarbiyat School, the Library and the reading room, are as usual being frequented by the searchers for the Truth and investigators of the Cause. We are thankful to our Lord that the Cause in this city is in great prosperity. Our meetings and gatherings are public on Sundays, and private on Wednesdays; and on Fridays we are having the regular “Sunday School” programs for the children. (Friday is the Mohammedan Sunday. Tran.) Our hope is that the clouds of bigotry and superstition, that have darkened the sky for the numerous tribes and sects of this country, may be rent asunder and that the Sun of Reality may throw its golden rays upon those who are fast asleep in the grave of ignorance and imitation so that the progress of the Cause and the influence of the words of Bahá’u’lláh in this land, may parallel and advance at the same level with that in the other parts of the world.
Professor Pritam Singh, the secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly of India and Burma, has recently established a weekly magazine which is published in English and contains interesting and important articles on the Cause. The editor is employing the most appropriate method and style in advertising the Cause. The subscription fee is Five Rupees per annum. Friends who are interested are asked to communicate directly with the editor to the following address:
Prof. Pritam Singh, M.A., Editor, The Bahá’í, 39, Temple Road, Lahore, India.
We are glad to congratulate Prof. Pritam for this admirable work and pray for the duration of his publication.
The “Eternal Rose Garden” (Bahá’í cemetery), which has been the subject of a dispute between the Assembly and the municipality, has, at last, come into the possession of the Friends. We hope that with a slight expenditure on some of its parts, such as the “wash-room” and the court yard, it may be turned into a real Garden of Roses for Eternal Repose.
We wish to extend our thanks to all the Assemblies and friends that have favored us with circular letters and delightful news; and we entreat the Sacred Divinity to crown their efforts with success. In conclusion we would like to mention that any of the brothers or sisters who wish to contribute to our purpose, may apply to the following address. Their donations shall be welcomed and greatly appreciated and their names shall be inscribed in the Book of God:
- Who has the life Eternal? He who
- liveth righteously,
For after him, his memory shall revive
- his name.
Address: Isfendiyar Behtiyari,
- Preedy Road, Canp Karachi, India.
- Secretary of the Assembly,
- A. MOMENZADEH.
- Secretary of the Assembly,
