The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States and Canada
| No. 55 | SEPTEMBER, 1931 |
LETTER FROM SHOGHI EFFENDI[edit]
TO THE MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY, APRIL 2, 1931
Read at the Annual Convention Chicago, May, 1931.
Dear Mr. Lunt:
Shoghi Effendi wishes me to acknowledge in his behalf the letters that you have written him on behalf of the National Spiritual Assembly dated September 27th, December 10th, February 18th, January 20th and March 3rd, all of which he read with the deepest interest, but has unable to answer in new of the pressure of work due to his translation of Nabíl’s history.
Concerning individual teaching, Shoghi Effendi would urge every Bahá’í who feels the urge to exercise his right of teaching unofficially the Cause, to keep in close touch with the Local Spiritual Assembly of the locality in which he is working. The Local Spiritual Assembly while reserving for itself the right to control such activities on the part of individual Bahá’ís, should do its utmost to encourage such teachers and to put at their disposal whatever facilities they would need in such circumstances. Should any differences arise, the National Spiritual Assembly would naturally have to intervene and adjust matters.
Shoghi Effendi feels that in any locality where the number of adult believers reaches nine, a Local Assembly should be established. He feels this to be an obligation rather than a purely voluntary act. Only in exceptional cases has the National Spiritual Assembly the right to postpone the formation of an Assembly if it feels that the situation does not warrant such a formation. This right, however, should be exercised if the situation absolutely demands it. As to the principle according to which the area of the jurisdiction of a Local Assembly is to be determined, he feels this to be the function of the National Spiritual Assembly: whatever principle they uphold should be fairly applied to all localities without any distinction whatever.
As to the character of the meetings in the Auditorium of the Temple, he feels
Original “Plan of Unified Action” brings completion of the above superstructure in steel and reinforced concrete: the “New Plan of Unified Action” just inaugurated, will complete the “lacy envelope” ornamentation of this first Baha’i House of Worship in America.
that they should be purely devotional in
character. Bahá’í addresses and lectures
should be strictly excluded. For the
present, he feels that there would be no
objection to having Bahá’í meetings including
addresses and the business sessions
of the Convention held in the Foundation
Hall. Shoghi Effendi would urge
that choir singing by men, women and
children be encouraged in the Auditorium
and that rigidity in the Bahá’í service
be scrupulously avoided. The more
universal and minimal the character of
Bahá’í worship in the Temple the better.
Images and pictures, with the exception
of the Greatest Name, should be strictly
excluded. Prayers revealed by Bahá’u’lláh
and the Master as well as the sacred
writings of the Prophets should be read
or chanted as well as hymns based upon
Bahá’í or non-Bahá’í sacred writings.
Shoghi Effendi would wish you to get in touch with the Egyptian authorities and press for Bahá’í recognition in that land. The petition that you have prepared should be forwarded and the National Spiritual Assembly in Egypt should be pressed to take whatever measure is necessary to insure its success.
The letter you have received from Constantinople is by no means representative the of the actual conditions there, and Shoghi Effendi is urging the friends in that city to re-establish their Assembly and resume their relationships with the Bahá’í world.
Concerning the qualifications required for voting, Shoghi Effendi has laid down the essential conditions already in his letters, no further restrictions should be added to them. It is for the Local Assembly to decide in this matter. They should exercise this right with extreme
(Continued on Page 5 )
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NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHÁ’ÍS OF THE UNITED STATE AND CANADA General Address: Bahá’í Secretariat, Evergreen Cabin, West Englewood. N. J. ALFRED E. LUNT, Secretary, 89
NELLIE S. FRENCH, International
ROY C. WILHELM, Treasurerm
CARL SCHEFFLER, Financial Secretary,
The Bahá’í News is the Organ of
SARAH WALRATH, Chairman. ALBERT WINDUST, Editorial Manager
SOPHIE LOEDING.
ALBERT VAIL.
Editorial Office: SARAH WALRATH, 1415 Sherwood
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Inasmuch as eight Local Assemblies have recently been added to our list of Assemblies, the number of Bahá’í News published was insufficient to supply all of the friends with copies. We have received requests for the July and August issues Nos. 53 and 54 which we cannot supply, and we ask the Secretary of each Assembly to send to the office of the National Secretariat, Evergreen Cabin, West Englewood, N. J., any remaining copies they may have of these two issues, so that the shortage may be supplied.
The Editorial Committee is still awaiting brief and interesting news items—especially the teaching activities—throughout the country. These should be sent to the Editorial Office, 1415 Sherwood Terrace, Chicago, Illinois.
- EDITORIAL COMMITTEE.
EDITORIAL
THE TEMPLE — “TALISMAN” OF UNITY
FROM THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY
“Whosoever is favored by these shining and glorious Lights and hath attained to these luminous and radiant Suns during every Manifestation, hath attained the ‘Meeting of God’, and entered the city of eternal and immortal life.” (Kitáb-i-Iqán, p. 101.)
“Consider the candle, how it weeps its life away, drop by drop, so that it may yield its light.”—’Abdu’l-Bahá.
It is said that on this earthly planet today dwell 1,936,642,066 human beings. Since the Declaration of His Holiness, the Báb, in 1844, other billions of human beings have lived and passed away. From among all these, countless millions were born, lived and died in the faith of their forefathers, not knowing, never even hearing of the fulfilled Meeting of God (“the utmost Divine Bounty ordained for the servants”, p. 98 Kitáb-i-Iqán), and the spreading of His Heavenly Table, which had taken place so quietly, so unexpectedly and, withal, so differently in respect to the means and conditions of its appearance, to that which even the devout had understood and awaited.
On this western continent, in this 87th year since the heralding of the Cause of God, a group of sixteen hundred souls, conservatively estimated, through the Divine Assistance and their holy sacrifices, have become builders of a mighty symbol of the law of God, a House of Devotion and Praise, the first universal edifice to be erected in the Occident in the new and Great Cycle just beginning. Strengthened by the enheartening words of our beloved Guardian, and longing to fulfill this divine service begun in the holy days of the Master, and to scatter, once for all, the stagnant waters of inaction that had gathered about this great enterprise, these friends of God, small numerically but irresistible in their unity of purpose, contributed to the National Treasury in a single year not only the $400,000 required for construction, but $33,000 additional for the Administrative Budget for the Bahá’í year beginning at Ridván 1929. An enterprise which had languished for nearly ten years (since the building of the foundation in 1921), without advancement of any kind, and lacking even the beginnings of a Temple Construction Fund as late as the Convention period of 1929, suddenly arises as a phoenix from the ashes of apparent defeat and in a single twelve month period accomplishes its set goal. What mysterious power converted these moths of weakness and inaction into powerful, soaring, achieving falcons of the air of reality? What attraction is this that so transformed a somewhat dispirited, at least apprehensive group into a confident, reliant body possessed of a new consciousness and a new determination? Unity of purpose; unity of action: the stirring to sacrifice: the consciousness of Faith in our Guardian’s assurances, and the increased power of devotion and prayer. These, or rather this, for it is all told in the one word “Unity”, conferred upon us all, in these brief months, this “Aladdin’s Talisman,” this power to accomplish, to amaze and confound the doubtful among the public who professed to believe that the Temple of God would remain indefinitely a strange, repelling and lowly object virtually buried in the ground.
The entire western Bahá’í world lived, in those months, in respect to the Temple construction, as “one soul in many bodies.” And indeed, one should say in truth that both Orient and Occident shared with equal fervor, in prayer and supplication, in notable and sacrificial gifts culminating in that most precious gift from Shoghi Effendi of the silken rug from the Holy Shrine. None can say what hidden bounty for the opening of the doors of success dwelt within that gift.
A vast gulf stretches between the service of one who voices and accepts, merely intellectually, the precept or Unity, and on the other hand, of that advancing soul in whose inner reality burns a living consciousness of what this transcendent gift of our loving Father really means to man, in the establishment of His Kingdom here. We affirm and believe many spiritual truths, but we are conscious to a far lesser degree in the sense of divine certainty, of the faith that knows, whose shafts of light penetrate into the very core of our beings. But now the hour has arrived. The lesson learned by the beloved friends through the stupendous fact of the attraction of the Divine Confirmations in those twelve teeming months by reason both of the elevation and deepening of our mutual consciousness of the preciousness of Unity, marked a new era in the Cause in the West. This is the Path; this the means of becoming the objects of His Bounty; through our full acceptance of the Promise of God to “those who dwell in Unity,” He fulfilled His Law upon us. Inasmuch as this was a divine transaction, it is ineradicably imprinted upon the mirror of every heart.
But shall we be overwhelmed by this,
or perchance seek contentment in this partial
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accomplishment of the Divine Purpose?
Shall we permit ourselves gradually
to relax into a somnolent state ever
again? Shall we, because of severe
storms of economic hardship forget that
even this, in the individual lives of the
believers, will find its remedy in the
treasured Abundance of His storehouse,
which is ever poured forth upon a sincere
and obedient people?
The degree of our Faith, our reliance upon Him, our unflinching facing of every spiritual and material obligation, and above all, the retention and renewed application of the Unity consciousness.— as we now begin the next step of Temple financing,—will, without peradventure of doubt, bring forth a new, and perhaps even greater demonstration of the bounty of our Generous Lord, who is the Listener and the Answerer.
The Unity we are learning in our common effort to build the Temple is but a foretaste of the deeper and holier ties that will connect the hearts as we release into our lives and the lives of all with whom we contact, the divine qualities of love, understanding and justice. How impressive, at this hour, the Master’s words, “Your faith comes like rain. The first drops are far between, but soon it will pour in torrents.”
Before us, each of the divine friends, rich and poor, lies the new pathway heralded by the “New Plan of Unified Action.” Substantial as are the total sums required, both annually and in monthly averages, let them be no cause of doubt or apprehension. Of far greater importance is the will to accomplish—to become a partner in the unfoldment of the mystery of Divine Acceptance. To raise, approximately, a sum equal to that which was done in twelve months, three years are assigned.
This is the beginning time. To defer action is to lose the vision. The physical frame of the Temple needs further expenditures at once, upon the utilities of heating and light, (especially heating), if we are to protect it from being weakened by the elements this winter. These utility emergency expenditures approximate $30,000. Concerning the work of attaching the garment of ornamental stone, which is essential to the completion of the architectural design, this has been repeatedly emphasized by Shoghi Effendi as constituting the essence of the New Plan, he tells us—
“The work of applying the exterior ornamentation to the completed structure should proceed steadily and as speedily as possible. . . . that the full effect and influence of the Temple can be revealed only when the work in its entirely is accomplished. All the beauty and glory of the Temple depends upon the exterior garment of stone with which it is to be adorned, while the consummation of the task will, in itself, act as a magnet that will draw the promised blessings of the Master.”
Moreover he says—
“Nothing short of continued self-sacrifice can achieve this end. . . . the present financial depression should be regarded both as a challenge and opportunity to prove the reality and potency of our faith.”
Our beloved Guardian sees and reminds us of the underlying spiritual wisdoms attending this superb task. His love, his knowledge, his vision, and his protecting care encompass and mirror the World of Reality to us, he knows that we are capable of, and asks nothing of us that is not confirmed and sanctioned within the Realm of Might. He asks of us Faith, and promises success if we will only respond.
As we write these lines, we are conscious of the great victory and that this consciousness lives in every unitary cell of the Bahá’í organism. These cells are the hearts oi the believers of God. May every Assembly and Community arise with pure devotion, filling once again the financial reservoirs of the Cause, so that the maturity of the Divine Edifice become revealed and draw all men unto the Lord of Mankind.
“THE DAWN BREAKERS”[edit]
NABÍL’S NARRATIVE OF THE EARLY DAYS OF THE BAHÁ’Í REVELATION
The members of the National Spiritual Assembly wish to reinforce with all possible influence the plans announced by the Publishing Committee lot the publication of the Guardian’s translation of the Nabíl Narrative.
The appearance of this Bahá’í work must be recognized as an event of extreme importance. There are vital spiritual reasons why every true believer should, as soon as possible, thoroughly master the contents of the Narrative.
We quote again the Guardian’s own opinion, expressed in the letter sent through his secretary accompanying the manuscript: “The Guardian trusts that this book will prove a great impetus to the progress of the Faith throughout the Western World.”
The Nabil Narrative comes to us at a time when the pressure of world crisis, the destruction that precedes construction, will fan the flames of religious controversy and inevitably direct the shafts of opposition and denial against those who follow Bahá’u’lláh. Between those who would destroy all religion, and those who would preserve their own sect at any cost, the Bahá’ís will have need of a faith confirmed by the power of knowledge.
Shoghi Effendi has given us the first portion of the history of the Cause: and the truth of the Revelation has one of its proofs in the course of its historical development. Here, then, is our answer to those attacks which emanate from sectarian sources. Here, above all, is the example of those heroic souls whose faith has been called upon to meet emergencies not yet encountered in Europe and America.
The National Assembly would emphasize also the plan of advance orders drawn up by the Publishing Committee as a method of meeting the printing costs with as little expense as possible to the National Fund. This great work, with its 736 pages, colored frontispiece, reproductions of twenty Tablets of the Báb, and two hundred photographic illustrations, involves a printing cost of nearly ten thousand dollars. As advance orders are received, the National Fund is saved that part of the cost, and the Temple Fund will thereby be increased.
The National Assembly wishes to make it clear that the idea of the Limited Edition of one hundred and fifty copies, each autographed by the Guardian, was submitted to Shoghi Effendi and received his entire approval before the Publishing Committee’s announcement was prepared. This approval came in the form of a letter dated June 4, confirming a cablegram sent on the same day. The letter, written by the Guardian’s secretary, stated that: “Shoghi Effendi was delighted with the splendid suggestion of your husband (Mr. Raymond D. Little) regarding the Nabíl Narrative and he is glad that your Publishing Committee has approved it. He has already hastened in cabling ‘yes’ and he wishes me to write in full to assure you that he would be quite ready to autograph the volumes for the de luxe edition. The initial cost of the publication was something that worried him, hence his gratitude for the able suggestion of your husband.”
On August 5th, after receiving the Committee’s printed announcement containing the Advance Order blank, Shoghi Effendi cabled the National Spiritual Assembly: “Heartily endorse plan (to) secure (the) co-operation (of) believers (in the) publication (of) Nabíl’s Narrative, Mailing (in) October (a) check (for) one hundred copies.” (Signed) SHOGHI.
Thus the friends are given the facts
which will enable them to draw closer to
the Guardian’s thoughts and wishes. Already
the Committee announces a hearty
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and enthusiastic response to the publishing
plan. The National Assembly is
confident that every Local Spiritual Assembly
will take steps to secure orders
for the Nabíl Narrative in their
community.
As Shoghi Effendi wrote in his Introduction to the book: “The Bahá’í Movement is now well known throughout the world, and the time has come when Nabíl’s unique narrative of its beginnings in darkest Persia will interest many readers. The record which he sets down with such devoted care is in many respects extraordinary. It has its thrilling passages, and the splendor of the central theme gives to the chronicle not only great historical value but high moral power.”
A BAHÁ’Í CALENDAR[edit]
The Publishing Committee is pleased to announce that a Bahá’í Calendar for 1932 will soon be ready for distribution.
The Calendar consists of twelve separate leaves, one for each month, printed on heavy cardboard stock and tied together with a cord so that each month can show in turn.
Each page carries the regular monthly calendar for January, February, etc., and all the Bahá’í dates (Feasts and Anniversaries) falling in that period, together with numerous quotations from Bahá’u’lláh, ’Abdu’l-Bahá' and Shoghi Effendi.
This Calendar meets a long-felt need. It was prepared by Doris Holley and has been approved by the Reviewing Committee.
In order to make it more attractive as a gift, the twelve pages are of four different colors, one color for each of the four seasons of the year.
Local Assemblies are requested to send in advance orders at once so that the Calendars may be in the hands of the friends well before Christmas. The price is fifty cents each. Individual believers not members of a local Bahá’í community may order copies direct from the Committee. The publication date will be October 5th. It is hoped that the friends will use the Calendar as an interesting and helpful gift to non-believers, as well as in keeping track of the Bahá’í dates themselves.
Send orders to Bahá’í Publishing Committee, P. O. Box 348, Grand Central Station, New York, N. Y.
OTHER PUBLISHING ANNOUNCEMENTS
A letter recently received by the Publishing Committee from Shanghai, China, brings the important information that the Esslemont book has been translated into Chinese and will very soon be ready for distribution. The translator is Dr. Y. S. Tsao, a very scholarly Chinese whom Miss Martha Root confirmed as a Bahá’í.
The attention of the friends is called to the following titles:
Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era, by
- J. E. Esslemont, translated into
- Esperanto .........................$1.50
Bahá’í Administration, Letters of
- Shoghi Effendi, including the two
- letters on the World Order of
- Bahá’u’lláh. ..................... 1.50
The Bahá’í World, Volume Three. 2.50
’Abdu’l-Bahá in New York, new
- edition. ........................... .50
“Star” Tablet of the Báb, reproduced on fine quality blue paper. ......... .50
IN MEMORIAM[edit]
Word has come of the passing of Dr. Auguste Forel, the distinguished savant of Switzerland, known throughout the world as one of the foremost scientists of this day. In 1920 Dr. Forel embraced the Bahá’í Cause, and ’Abdu’l-Bahá addressed to him that great Tablet presenting the scientific proofs of God’s existence, which was published in its entirety in the Star of the West, Vol. 13, pages 101 to 109. By his tireless research Dr. Forel greatly augmented scientific knowledge and rendered inestimable service to mankind, and the beauty of his life and character will long remain with us as an example of selfless service to humanity.
Mrs. Dora Taylor passed from this life August 18th. Mrs. Taylor united with the Cincinnati group of Bahá’ís more than twenty-five years ago. At her request, the service used at the funeral of Mr. Louis Bourgeois, was read by Miss Hilda Stauss. Mrs. Taylor had been incapacitated for many years by a most distressing illness. She was the wife of Benjamin R. Taylor and leaves four children.
The Los Angeles Spiritual Assembly and Community of Bahá’ís report the passing of one of their honored members, Edgar F. Waite. He was born in Massachusetts in 1865, moved to Chicago in 1893, remaining until 1915, when he went to California. He has been a valued member of the Los Angeles Community of Bahá’ís for fifteen years, having been for several years Chairman of the Los Angeles Spiritual Assembly. His life has been one of self-sacrificing service to the Cause, and his passing a perfect example of “radiant acquiescence” to the will of Bahá’u’lláh. The friends feel keenly the absence of Mr. Waite’s physical presence and sincerely sympathize with Mrs. Shahnaz Waite in her bereavement.
On Thursday, September 17th, at Honolulu, one of our much loved friends, Mrs. Meta A. Sutherland, passed on suddenly to the Spiritual Kingdom. She served the Cause faithfully and lovingly for many years as a member of the Honolulu Bahá’í Assembly and through her spirit of steadfastness, understanding, gentleness and true humility, endeared herself to all. She was born in Honolulu on May 8th, 1862, and was one of the early believers in the islands.
TEMPLE NEWS[edit]
The summer meetings at the Temple have been very fine indeed, the attendance has steadily increased and the speakers have given splendid presentations of the teachings. We wish that all of the friends could have heard the various addresses. Mrs. Corinne True gave an excellent talk; Mr. Albert Windust spoke with great power; Miss Fannie Knobloch spoke most inspiringly; Mr. Carl Scheffler delivered two very fine addresses: Mrs. Ruth Moffett gave two splendid discourses and Mrs. Sarah Walrath delivered a beautiful address. We feel that the Chicago area is developing good material for Temple work.
It is gratifying to observe the constantly growing audiences and to know that this growth is taking place in view of the fact that there has been a variety of speakers and the almost unprecedented heat of the past summer. Those who ventured out were richly rewarded spiritually and, on the material plane, found the interior of the Foundation Hall delightfully cool.
The Secretary of the Hospitality Committee has a list of names and addresses of interested visitors from twenty-five states, also Australia, China and Austria. What marvelous opportunities this opens to the teachers in the field!
A letter from Shoghi Effendi, through Ruhi Afnán, to one of the Chicago friends, dated May 31, 1931, reads as follows: “Shoghi Effendi wishes me to acknowledge the receipt of your letter dated May 9th, 1931. He sincerely hopes that now that the Temple is completed it will be filled to the full with pure, seeking souls. It should be different from other houses of worship, where, even if they are filled, their source of attraction is the music heard. Here the spirit should be so powerful as to awaken the heart of every one that enters, to the glory of Bahá’u’lláh and to the importance of the message of peace He has brought to the world. Please God, the Master’s promise will be fulfilled and the construction of the Temple will inaugurate a new era in the history of the Cause in America.”
LETTER FROM SHOGHI EFFENDI[edit]
(Continued from Page 1)
tact and caution and avoid rigidity and formalism. There is no distinction in this respect between new and old believers, nor should contributions to the national or local funds be made a condition for voting.
Shoghi Effendi feels deeply the delicacy and complexity of these problems with which you are constantly being faced, and he will pray for you all that you may be guided in your efforts to extend the scope and consolidate the foundations of God’s Holy Faith.
- Yours ever sincerely,
My dear co-workers:
I wish to add a few words in person and assure you of my deep sense of appreciation of the wisdom, the energy and the determination with which you are facing and handling the many issues involved in the extension of the Cause. I feel that the Bahá’í world is greatly indebted to you for the splendid manner in which you have arisen to propagate the Faith and to consolidate its basis May the Almighty sustain you in your high endeavors.
- Your true brother,
THE TEMPLE AND THE NINETEEN-DAY FEASTS[edit]
BY “AUNTIE VICTORIA” (MRS. VICTORIA BEDIKIAN)
O Assembly of our Guardian!
Our Nineteen-Day Feasts are now more sacred than ever before! Our National Spiritual Assembly has revealed a New Plan of Unified Action through which our Feasts become Temple Feasts. Temple Supplication Hours and Temple Consultation Meetings!
Behold! The call of “Mashriqu’l-Adhkár” it penetrating every heart, and mind, and deed, and soon we shall be gathered together in Temple Unity, as only the Guardian’s Administration can lead us. Hear the music of that call, heed the lessons its reality teaches us, harken unto the echoes which resound through its lofty pillars and corridors. What feasts of love and selfless giving will unfold, according to our obedience to the summons of our National Spiritual Assembly! The banquet is prepared and eternal radiance shines upon the Assemblies of our beloved Guardian’s Administration!
Giving! Giving! Giving is an art! Selfless giving proves our faith and love and hope in Bahá’u’lláh! When man
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“When the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár with its accessories, becomes established in the world, aside from its religious or spiritual influence, it will have a tremendous effect upon Civilization. Aside from the religionists who feel its influence, materialists will not be exempt therefrom. Moreover it contains Divine Wisdom, and will have spiritual effect upon the intellects and thoughts. Subsequent to its erection these will become evident.”—’ABDU’L-BAHA. |
gives everything in the Path of God he acquires abundant heavenly treasures in the Divine Kingdom, and although unseen below, they accumulate and pile up and erect a divine edifice of the spirit which becomes our habitation when this earthly life fades away. Is anything worth the keeping here below? And when the opportunity comes to us to share God’s material gifts for God’s eternal Cause, will we be found wanting?
The sacred Assemblies of the Administration are the purifiers of motives and as the members acquire perfection through sacrifice and order, a New Spirit descends among them, and a New Path opens before their faces until they see naught but the light of the Spirit of Abhá! Such an Assembly will bless the Community. All things can then be planned. The Spiritual Temple unfolds like unto the material one, and closely knitted together everything is done lay Divine Guidance and blessings flow therefrom upon all the world. If all Assemblies follow the plan, soon abounding success will come and our “Mother” Temple in Wilmette will flourish, and its beautiful accessories for relief and education, also. The establishing of all the principles of Bahá’u’lláh hover around a finished Home of Worship. There is no doubt that through prayer deeds will be born, and that through prayer and deed the world will be saved today. The Temple is the most important deed! Our National Spiritual Assembly has laid down for us our task, and the Nineteen-Day Feast becomes the focal center for Temple Unity.
The Nineteen-Day Feast is on a certain Day and at a certain Hour. If all of us together supplicate and plan for the Temple’s completion. Bahá’u’lláh will hear, He will open the hearts of every soul, and funds will flow into the National Treasury as the waters roll in a rapid stream. This will come by the Bounty of God, through the organized Kingdom—the Bahá’í Administration of Shoghi Effendi. There is no other way in which to build myriads of Mashriqu’l-Adhkár in a darkened world. The Point of Light hath been revealed unto us, from which Point all darkness of earth must flee. Glory and Peace be upon every heart!
O Assembly, there is another plea. In helping the Bahá’í World book you are also helping the Temple. Will every believer send all the photographs of value which have accumulated during the long years of Bahá’í contact, to our Bahá’í World Committee, whose chairman is, (Mrs.) Nellie S. French, 501 Bellefontaine St., Pasadena, California. And will you let us know if the Master, ’Abdu’l-Bahá, visited in your town, in what places he spent His hours, where He lectured and where He dwelt during His sojourn amongst you? Will you have photographs taken of the places, and send our sister any pictures you may have?
In our Guardian’s service, faithfully,
- VICTORIA.
LETTER FROM SHOGHI EFFENDI TO MRS. VICTORIA BEDIKIAN[edit]
Dear Bahá’í Sister:
Shoghi Effendi wishes me to acknowledge on his behalf the receipt of your letter dated July l5th, 1931, and to assure you of his profound appreciation of your continued and precious services to the Cause.
The Guardian was particularly gratified to receive your enclosed letters addressed to some of the believers encouraging them to endorse the New Plan of Unified Action recently issued by the National Assembly.
He wishes you, however, to persevere in your efforts and to be wholly confident in the promises of the Master concerning the ultimate triumph of the Faith.
We are passing through an age of scepticism and unbelief; but we should not let our faith lose in its strength or be dimmed by the mischief clouds of hesitation and doubt.
With the assurance of Shoghi Effendi’s best wishes and of his ardent prayers for your advancement and success.
My dear co-worker:
Your unremitting labors are a great encouragement to me and a source of real joy. You should continue, with undivided attention and undiminished energy, your historic work of enlisting world-wide support for the New Plan of Unified Action which I have already heartily endorsed. May the Almighty sustain and bless your exemplary endeavors.
BAHÁ’I ACTIVITIES IN OTHER LANDS[edit]
GREAT BRITAIN
London: The latest News Bulletin advises us of the result of the election of the first National Spiritual Assembly for England. Our English friends are lamenting the great loss of the passing of Mrs. Claudia Stewart Coles, who departed from us on the day of the declaration or the Báb, May 23rd. Her home, Warwick Gardens, appeared to have been turned, on the day of the funeral, into a garden of flowers. Her body was interred in the little country cemetery on Bled-law Ridge. The love and friendship which she showered upon her associates will always remain with them, a living memory. Her services to the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh will be her monument.
Manchester: The Bahá’í group meets twice every month. The meetings are attended especially by the young people. Apparently the new generation is deeply interested in the Bahá’í Cause.
Bradford: Although no organized Assembly has been established, as a result of a visit by Mrs. Slade meetings have been held and the addresses given have been enthusiastically received.
Altrincham: There is no Spiritual Assembly here but plans for regular meetings have been made, through which it is hoped to extend the activities in the Cause.
York: Reports on small but my impressive meetings of the friends there in private circles.
Bournemouth: The friends meet weekly for the purpose of studying the Bahá’í Teachings. Mrs. Cowles from Montreal has done splendid pioneer work.
INDIA
Lahore: The Bahá’í Weekly, issued in Lahore, has brought the report of the passing of Mirza Mahmood Zargani who wrote the travels of ’Abdu’l-Bahá in America and Europe. Everyone acquainted with the great service rendered by Mirza Mahmood to the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh will realize how keenly his loss is felt.
Burma: India and Burma published in the Bahá’í Weekly of June 9th the report that the Delhi Bahá’í Weekly in Urdu has issued eight editions during the last year. The ninth will appear in January 1932. With the approval of the National Spiritual Assembly, the Assemblies in Bombay, Rangoon and Karachi have financed their publication. This publication in the Urdu language will be the means of bringing the Bahá’í Message to many in the north of India. At the Woman’s Conference of All-Asia (January 1931) in Lahore, delegates attended from China, Japan, Afghanistan, Siam, Burma, Turkey, Persia and Egypt. Shoghi Effendi as well as the Greatest Holy Leaf sent messages for the success at the Conference. A Tablet was read about the problems of women in this Bahá’í Age and met with great approval. At the reception to the delegates, a Bahá’í address was given, at which time many of the visitors to the Woman’s Conference heard for the first time of the Bahá’í Cause. Hundreds of copies of the Bahá’í Weekly were sent out to the educated castes of India.
Karachi: A parcel of ground was purchased for the later construction of the “Hazíratu’l-Quds.” It is named “Shoghi Gardens.”
Calcutta: Has also bought land.
Mandalay: A very valuable property, business and garden, has been deeded over to Shoghi Effendi as a Bahá’í Estate by an old true servant of the Bahá’í Cause, Siyyid Mustafa Roumie and his wife. A copy of this deed is in the archives of the National Spiritual Assembly of India and Burma.
(Translated from the German Bahá’í News, by H. G. Pauli, New York City)
NEW ZEALAND
Auckland: We acknowledge gratefully receipt of circular letters from many Assemblies which are always of interest to this perhaps most distant group or Bahá’ís. We wish all to accept loving greetings and especially those American friends who so kindly entertained one of our members, Mrs. Dewing and her daughter when enroute to England. Mrs. Dewing’s son Bertram was already known to some Bahá’ís as he had the good fortune to attend the Green Acre convention and since his residence in Montreal has been associated with the Bahá’í young people. Since Mr. Dewing’s departure from New Zealand, the Herald of the South has been transferred to Australia and it is now published by the Adelaide. South Australia Assembly. In spite of losses to our numbers we still are able to function as an Assembly, but the work is chiefly in the nature of individual seedsowing. Weekly meetings are held and a sewing guild provides garments for the City Mission. Our librarian loans magazines to people who are interested but who are unable to attend the meetings—a greatly appreciated effort. Reports received of the progress of the building of the Temple rejoice our hearts. We also give thanks for the continued good health of the Guardian of the Cause and the Greatest Holy Leaf.
- MARGARET B. STEVENSON.
JAPAN
Mrs. Keith Ransom-Kehler, who has been lecturing on the Bahá’í Faith in Japan for the past five weeks, sailed aboard the liner Chichibu Maru on August 8th, continuing her lecture tour around the world. Newspapers have been received from Japan, three from Osaka under date of June 30th, July 23rd and 25th; also one from Tokyo August 1st, published in English, with presentations of the work of Mrs. Ransom-Kehler. Two of the articles are reports of meetings giving the principles and history of the Bahá’í Cause at considerable length, also two articles written by Mrs. Ransom-Kehler were given space in the newspapers on the subjects of “Religion and Social Progress,” and “The Unity of Religions.”
London: no friends in England have been enjoying a visit from our loved teacher. Mrs. Mary Hanford Ford. Mrs. Ford reaches the English audiences with great appeal. She is very much sought after and has spoken before large audiences in many English cities.
FRANCE
Paris: The Persian Bahá’í students sent to Europe by the Persian Government and located in various European Educational Centers, have been holding a reunion in Paris for the purpose of effecting an organization for their mutual assistance and co-operation. These young men are very earnest in their desire to familiarize themselves with the places which were visited by ’Abdu’l-Bahá when he was in Europe, to study the best methods for presenting the Cause and to establish an organization which shall meet frequently and especially during vacation periods; where they may encourage and assist each other: where they may be helpful to new students coming for the first time into the Western World, and where they may invite non-Bahá’í Oriental students and make them welcome, thus sharing the Bahá’í Spirit. They are very hopeful that some such Persian Bahá’í Students’ Group may be organized in the United States and the writer was earnestly requested to endeavor to bring this about in America. The students feel that newcomers have great need of guidance and friendly association, as western ways are totally unfamiliar to them and they feel strange and isolated.
- NELLIE S. FRENCH
Paris, August 9, 1931.
MONTREAL, CANADA[edit]
The news that comes to us from the various Assemblies is such a source of joy that we wish to tell the friends throughout the country a little about our activities. The Tuesday night forum meetings conducted by the Young People have been attended by between forty and fifty regularly, so much interest being shown that this activity has been continued during the summer months. Feeling the need of intensive study along the lines of Administration of the Cause and deeper phases of religion, Mrs. May Maxwell has been conducting a Friday night class for young people. We are anticipating the fall and winter months when these activities and others will make our teaching work more efficient that ever before.
BAHÁ’Í CAUSE ON RADIO BROADCAST[edit]
At Honolulu, on Sunday morning, September 6th, an invitation was extended to Julia Goldman to broadcast a twenty-minute talk on the Bahá’í Cause. Her subject was, “The Bahá’í Movement and the Changing World Order.” That this talk was received with sympathetic interest by many who “listened in,” was evidenced by the messages and inquiries which followed. Of significance also, in the growth of the Cause, is the publicity given the public meetings in newspapers.
A letter from Wayne Jackson of Seattle, Washington, tells of his broadcasting a series of lessons in Esperanto over stations KJR, Seattle, Washington; KGA, Spokane, Washington; and KEX, Portland, Oregon; also a smaller station in Wenatchee, Washington, which is on the same hook-up. This privilege is through the courtesy of the Northwest Broadcasting System, Seattle, and is over a system hook-up.
Mr. Jackson has mentioned the name of Bahá’u’lláh and some of the principles, and on June 13th gave the following Bahá’í quotation: “Ni deziras nur la bonstaton de la mondo kaj la felico de la nacioj,” (“We desire only the well-being of the world and the happiness of the nations.”)
In his broadcast Mr. Jackson has stressed particularly the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh on the necessity of a Universal Auxiliary Language. The results already manifest from the broadcast, are the interest shown by many individuals and the organization of study classes in several towns.
GREEN ACRE IN 1931[edit]
BY ALBERT VAIL
The green “ ’Akká” of America enjoyed this year an unusually long and refreshing season. It is becoming more and more a real summer school for Bahá’í teachers. There were regular courses of lectures beginning early in July and lasting to the latter part of August; and they were splendidly attended by eager groups of younger and older people who longed to better understand modern science and social problems, the philosophies of our day, the great springtimes of the Holy Spirit in human history, the practical methods by which we as spiritual physicians may heal body, mind and soul in this distracted social order.
There were morning classes six days in the week which presented the comprehensive courses the program committee had carefully outlined. There were special evening lectures on psychology, progressive education, current events, spiritual administration, world travels, and sunset gatherings for quiet prayer and spiritual healing. Sunday mornings brought the memorable services of worship with their singing, readings from divine books, inspiring addresses and lovely music.
There was a Conference on International Relations arranged by the youth which awakened much interest. A specialist in international law and economics gave an illuminating series of addresses and a kindly and universally minded editor from Boston added greatly to the success of the program. The youth were chairmen and speakers at the various sessions. The students at Green Acre are evident proof of what the creative Words of the New Manifestation can do in transforming those who love and study these Words, into fluent speakers and shining lights.
A new feature at Green Acre this summer was regular services devoted to prayer. One of the pilgrims just returned from Mt. Carmel told of how Shoghi Effendi had spoken of the need of special meetings for meditation. So at the Fellowship House there were special morning services of meditation on the meanings of the Divine Utterances. The one conducting the meeting read first a prayer, also a few words from the Divine Treasury upon the attributes of God. His Mercy, His Love, His Bounty and the radiant pathway of pure and holy living. Then those present endeavored to realize the glory of these Attributes and the joy of walking in His path. Often some one volunteered to chant a prayer, as music quickens and heightens spiritual susceptibilities. Then those present tried to rise on the wings of silent concentration into that “atmosphere which is hidden from the eyes.”
Toward the end of August came a splendid Inter-racial Conference. One of the friends just returned from Haifa told of how Shoghi Effendi wished Green Acre to become a great center for the meeting of the white and colored people. Every season for a number of years the friends at Green Acre have held one of the Amity Conferences for inter-racial friendship which the Master started so gloriously in Washington, D. C., ten years ago. And it always brings a unique outpouring of that Holy Spirit through which in this radiant century racial differences shall pass away and “the Most Great Peace shall come.”
INTER-RACIAL AMITY CONVENTION[edit]
GREEN ACRE, ME., AUGUST 21-31. BY E. B. M. DEWING.
The Amity Convention this year was noted for the large attendance of colored people. The spirit of amity was outstanding and many permanent inter-racial friendships must have been created. The most notable gathering was on Sunday evening when a concert was given by noted artists of many races. The spirit was a revelation and an inspiration even to a Bahá’í and the friends lingered, singing and talking, long after the concert was over.
At the two round-table meetings the large proportion of colored people was very noticeable; also their keenness, desire to reach constructive conclusions and frankness of speech. This report is not of the whole conference, but includes passages of the most valuable ideas and constructive criticism which were brought up in perfect love and kindness.
It often happens that some of the best thoughts that are the outcome of this type of conference are to be gathered from personal contacts and informal discussions after the convention proper is over. Hence this report of the two round-table meetings.
Miss Louise Thompson spoke of her recent visit to Haifa. She said that Shoghi Effendi told her that the greatest problem in Europe was the Jewish question, in England the class question and in America the race question. It was his wish that Green Acre become a great center for the white and colored people. He said we must take them into our homes and not be afraid of criticism. At the same time wisdom must be displayed.
As a result of this a number of friends
later expressed the hope that various Negro
and other organizations should be invited[Page 8]
to Green Acre to hold their annual
conferences,
Mrs. Annie K. Lewis, colored Bahá’í, felt the need to be practical in their meetings; also that any conclusion reached should not end in words.
Mrs. Bechtold of New York, who does splendid work, considers that the most complete and lasting amity work can be obtained by personal friendships between peoples, active demonstration of love and understanding.
Mr. Samuel A. Allan of the Urban League, a Bahá’í, hoped the Bahá’ís would exercise more originality than other amity organizations. He hoped that we might have colored speakers on subjects other than amity and race. He suggested that Mr. Arthur A. Schomburg of Fisk University would be willing to give a course of lectures on Negro literature next year. He also suggested Dr. E. E. Just, noted scientist, as a speaker. He also wished that less attention be directed to the Negro-White question and that this be made a part of the general question of relationship between races. He would like to see Jews, Japanese and Chinese, and others, included in these conferences.
Prof. Sandoz said Bahá’ís should avoid speaking of other people as “colored.” They should ignore such distinctions entirely.
Mrs. Elizabeth Greenleaf spoke of the intensity of the race problem in New Orleans.
Mrs. Zylpha Mapp, colored Bahá’í, said that in her opinion there is a great difference between Southern and Northern colored people and that those of the South would take more notice of a Bahá’í teacher of their own race.
Mrs. Mapp lives in a town where her family is the only one of color. At first, she met with difficulties but now all opposition to her has passed. Her children mingle freely with the white children and she entertains her white neighbors in her home.
Mr. Gregory said that pure souls can powerfully influence their environment, though hostile. Speaking of amity among Jews he said that Rabbis are highly intelligent and readily listen to the Bahá’í teachings, but find it hard to carry their congregations with them.
Mrs. Weiss, whose husband is an associate editor of the magazine Time, felt that the Bahá’ís should conduct a vigorous educational campaign in the press and among clubs and other organizations. All should at least know that the Bahá’í Cause exists. Editors differ in their preference for news. Time likes the present and forecasts of future events. Most editors like sane, idealistic, well written articles; they discard the eccentric and emotional, Time likes news.
Mr. Dewing believes Bahá’í writers should study various publications with a view to supplying their needs. Perhaps certain ones should specialize with certain papers. Larger publicity committees should work on Bahá’í conferences and start earlier. Do not overwork the willing ones and find others with capacity to serve.
Mrs. Weiss said more effort should be made to address clubs on racial amity and other principals of the Cause. Too much stress should not be laid on the deeper Bahá’í teachings. Get a list of all clubs and try to attract peoples of various races and nationalities.
Mrs. Fleming of New Haven, colored, would like her people to pay more attention to their own deportment. If they have assurance and look attractive, they are not so likely to meet rebuffs. She hoped that the Bahá’ís would co-operate with various state and national Negro clubs. The National Teaching Committee might furnish teachers with such addresses.
Mr. Dewing, when in Haifa was deeply impressed with the Guardian’s concern over the race question. The Guardian said that he was not sure that the friends were doing all they could to attract the colored people. While Mr. Dewing did not doubt that all who worked for the cause of amity were deeply concerned, he thought that an inquiry into methods might be beneficial. The great lesson of the Guardian to believers was his efficiency. Amity conferences should increasingly attract thought leaders by disseminating scientific and spiritual knowledge. Inter-racial sports should be encouraged among the children and youth. Green Acre, Geyserville and Lew-Helen (Flint, Mich.) may take the lead in this phase of amity, a step in the direction of the sublimation of conflict.
Mr. Gregory said there are difficulties that attack people of all races and such cannot be avoided. One person succeeds and another of the same race fails. This may be due to a difference of personality, or in the degrees of faith, devotion, sacrifice and spiritual attraction and confirmation. But it is with regard to problems which arise purely out of racial differences that we are concerned chiefly. It is our wish to remove prejudices, to promote justice and fair play and to establish the unity of the human family regardless of racial differences. Factors in this effort are scientific proofs of the equality of races; the experiment of bringing to the fore talented people to challenge respect and win admiration for their groups; demonstrating both the subjective and objective harm of prejudice and the creation of the spiritual bond which can have complete expression and power only through the great message and teachings of Bahá’u’lláh.
BAHÁ’Í JOURNALS[edit]
“The News Letter (Bahá’í News) which you have lately initiated fulfills a very vital function and has been started admirably well. I would urge you to enlarge its scope, as much as your resources permit, that in time it may devote a special section to every phase of of your activities, administrative, devotional, humanitarian, financial, educational and otherwise. That it may attain its object it must combine the essential qualities of accuracy, reliability, thoroughness, dignity and wisdom. It should become a great factor in promoting understanding, providing information on Bahá’í’ activity, both local and foreign, stimulating interest, in combating evil influences, and in upholding and safeguarding the institutions of the Cause. It should be made as representative as possible, should be replete with news, up-to-date in its information, and should arouse the keenest interest among believers and admirers alike in every corner of the globe. I cherish great hopes for its immediate future, and I trust you will devote your special attention to its development, and by devising well-conceived and worldwide measures transform this News Letter into what I hope will become the foremost Bahá’í Journal in the world.”
- (Words of SHOGHI EFFENDI from
Bahá’í Administration, page 73).
Our brother, Mr. Pritam Singh, Editor of the Bahá’í Weekly of Lahore, India (9 Langby Road), is engaged in a work of loving service to the people of India in the publication of this Weekly, which has possibilities of the highest importance. The subscription to this Weekly is $2.00 per year, and a number of the American believers have already become subscribers. Pritam Singh has, up to September 2, 1931, registered 160 subscribers, and states that the total of 350 subscribers will make the Weekly self-supporting. The friends of the East have been magnanimous in contributing to the Bahá’í Temple in America. International co-operation and reciprocity between the friends in various countries is a means of unity and strength. Please address Pritam Singh as described above.
