Bahá’í News/Issue 79/Text

Bahá’í News
Issue 79

BAHA’I NEWS

Published by
The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís
of the United States and Canada
General Office: Evergreen Cabin, West Englewood, New Jersey

No. 79

NOVEMBER, 1933

Fellow-believers in the American continent! Great indeed have been your past and present achievements! Immeasurably greater are the wonders which the future has in store for you! The Edifice your sacrifices have raised still remains to be clothed. The House (Universal House of Justice) which must needs be supported by the highest administrative institution your hands have reared, is as yet unbuilt. The provisions of the chief Repository of those laws that must govern its operation are thus far mostly undisclosed. The Standard (of The Most Great Peace) which, if ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s wishes are to be fulfilled, must be raised in your own country has yet to be unfurled. The Unity of which that standard is to be the symbol is far from being yet established. The machinery which must needs incarnate and preserve that unity is not even created. Will it be America, will it be one of the countries of Europe, who will arise to assume the leadership essential to the shaping of the destinies of this troubled age? Will America allow any of her sister communities in East or West to achieve such ascendency as shall deprive her of that spiritual primary with which she has been invested and which she has thus far so nobly retained? Will she not rather contribute, by a still further revelation of those inherent powers that motivate her life, to enhance the priceless privilege which the love and wisdom of a departed Master have conferred upon her?—Shoghi Effendi, April 21, 1933.

THE DIVINE EDIFICE[edit]

On November 2, the following cablegram was sent to all Local Spiritual Assemblies and groups by the National Spiritual Assembly on behalf of the Guardian:— “Appeal hard pressed American believers

TEMPLE CONSTRUCTION PHOTOGRAPH (New Series) No. 13

The Dome Unit as an October 24, 1933.

heed this, my last passionate entreaty, not to suffer slightest interruption in Temple construction to dim the magnificence of their epoch making enterprise. The fair name of our beloved Faith is at stake. Its American stalwart defenders will once again vindicate its triumphant glory. I promise one year’s respite upon successful conclusion first stage of the ornamentation of our glorious Temple.” (signed) Shoghi.

[Page 2] The emergency which the Guardian entreats us to meet is that by October 31, 1933, when $18,000 was due and payable on work done in October, the National Bahá’í Fund contained only $6,000 which could be appropriated for Temple work. Moreover, on November 1 the Temple Trustees were called upon to approve the construction schedule to be carried out during November. After prayerful consultation the National Spiritual Assembly decided to assume responsibility for the continuance of the full schedule at least until November 15, and on October 31 issued a general letter stating that contributions to the amount of $20,000 must be received by November 15 or the work will have to be stopped.

It is necessary to inform the friends that while the original estimate of $150,000 has not only been observed but actually reduced, the process of constructing the dome ornamentation has revealed the necessity of doing at this time certain parts of the work which, at the time the present contract was adopted, it was thought could be done later on when another unit of external decoration is under way. Moreover, actual experience on the part of Mr. Earley and our engineers in this entirely new type of construction made it desirable to add an additional set of metal fastenings, for the sake of extra safety. The total extras added to the original contract amount to $20,700, making, instead of $150,000, the sum of $170,700. But the economies effected during the construction reduce this amount considerably.

The total contract now amounts to $164,000. The present status of the construction contract is explained in the following report received by the Temple Trustees on November 3. “During recent conferences with the contractor we have estimated that the total cost of the construction work, including contractor’s fee, would amount to about $155,000. The apparent overrun of $5,000 over the original estimate of $150,000 is due to several factors, including the construction of the clerestory sections of the great ribs of the dome, which involved an additional expense of $6,000, the fabrication and erection of the furring system (metal fastenings) costing $5,490 and the labor expense for the perforation of the upper sections of the great ribs of the dome at an estimated cost of about $510. These items, together with the engineering fees of about $9,000, amount to a total of $171,000. If we assume that the total actual cost of the work, including engineering fee, will amount to $155,000 plus $9,000, or $164,000, it is obvious that the contractor will have effected a saving of about $7,000.” It is of vital importance that every believer study this explanation and understand its details fully, because at this time every day—every hour in fact—will determine whether the American Bahá’ís collectively are to arise in overwhelming vindication of the Guardian’s appeal and the Master’s protecting love, or allow this providential opportunity to fade into oblivion.

A number of believers, anxious to meet the standard of sacrifice set by the Guardian, inquire what proportion of the Temple cost should be considered as resting upon any one local Bahá’í community. The answer is, first, that each faithful believer must determine his own degree of sacrifice; and second, that in the New Plan of Unified Action published by the National Spiritual Assembly in a pamphlet dated June, 1931, the following statement appeared: “This means that the average donation ... must be $9.00 per month. Some of the friends can and will contribute much more than this, some can only contribute a small fraction of that amount. But let each of us make supreme effort to take the largest possible part in the most important achievement laid upon the Bahá’ís of the United States and Canada.

“Now is the moment to recall the Master’s words, that the prophets and holy ones yearn above all to render some service to the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh. Future generations, looking back, will envy us this opportunity to assist in laying the very foundations of world peace. Ours the privilege of contributing to order amid disorder, to faith amid general disillusion, to stability amid chaos.”

Perhaps also it is not too late to recall the Guardian’s message to the 1931 Convention: “Fervently appeal to all associated with this holy enterprise to consummate their achievement by upholding whatever measures National representatives may deem necessary for provision of exterior ornamentation. Inestimable blessing shall crown America’s sustained, self-sacrificing endeavors.”

KEITH RANSOM-KEHLER[edit]

First American Bahá’í Martyr[edit]

On October 27, 1933, the Spiritual Assembly of Tihran, Persia, cabled the startling news that Mrs. Keith Ransom-Kehler had passed into the spiritual Kingdom. With burning hearts the Persian Bahá’ís conveyed their grief at this mysterious culmination of our sister’s special mission in the land of the birth of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh.

The beloved Guardian, on October 30, despatched this message: “Keith’s precious life offered up in sacrifice to beloved Cause in Bahá’u’lláh’s native land. On Persian soil, for Persia’s sake, she encountered, challenged and fought the forces of darkness with high distinction, indomitable will, unswerving, exemplary loyalty. The mass of her helpless Persian brethren mourns the sudden loss of their valiant emancipator. American believers grateful and proud of the memory of their first and distinguished martyr. Sorrow stricken, I lament my earthly separation from an invaluable collaborator, an unfailing counselor, an esteemed and faithful friend. I urge the Local Assemblies befittingly to organize memorial gatherings in memory of one whose international services entitled her an eminent rank among the Hands of the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh.”—(signed) SHOGHI.

A message from the American Consul at Tihran, communicated through the Secretary of State, brought the information that Keith had passed on at Isfahan on October 23.

With the approval of Mrs. Keith Ransom-Kehler’s nearest relative, a message was cabled to the Tihran Assembly asking that burial be arranged at Isfahan under Bahá’í auspices, and stating that the American Assembly will construct a permanent memorial.

Shoghi Effendi, on November 3, sent this message: “Instructed Isfahan Assembly to inter Keith in the vicinity of the grave of Sultanushushuada, surnamed by Bahá’u’lláh ‘King of Martyrs.’ ”

The detailed reports which our beloved sister has during the past year sent from Tihran, to convey information on the result of her mission, as the representative of the American believers chosen by the Guardian, to secure from the Persian government the lifting of the ban on entry of Bahá’í literature and also removal of the difficulties and hardships placed upon the Persian Bahá’ís, form one of the precious and important historical records of the Cause. A summary of these reports will be published in BAHÁ’Í NEWS next month.

Local Spiritual Assemblies and groups are requested to arrange memorial meetings in accordance with the Guardian’s wish.

[Page 3]

“THE ADVANCING ARMY OF BAHA’U’LLAH”[edit]

“Unsatisfied with the achievements which crowned the concerted efforts of their elected representatives within the American continent, and emboldened by the initial success of their pioneer teachers, beyond its confines, in Great Britain, France and Germany, the community of the American believers resolved to win in distant climes fresh recruits to the advancing army of Bahá’u’lláh. Setting out from the western shores of their native land and impelled by the indomitable energy of a new-born faith, these itinerant teachers of the Gospel of Bahá’u’lláh pushed on towards the islands of the Pacific, and as far as China and Japan, determined to establish beyond the farthest seas the outposts of their beloved Faith.”—Shoghi Effendi, April 21, 1933.

The supreme sacrifice made by Mrs. Keith Ransom-Kehler, while serving in Persia, draws closer those “precious ties of fellowship” which unite the American believers with their fellow-countrymen who, in South America, Europe and the Orient, are undergoing similar hardships, sustaining great responsibilities and promoting with full loyalty their beloved Faith.

To these American Bahá’ís resident or traveling abroad, the believers of the United States and Canada convey heartfelt gratitude and love. They long for that blessed time when, in accordance with glorious prophecy, the Cause will have evolved to such strength and resources that ampler cooperation can be extended to each and every pioneer teacher enrolled in the Army of the Lord of Hosts. Not unmindful are they of their duty and privilege towards the Tarbiat School, that particular object of the loving interest of every American Bahá’í, nor towards the mighty work of assisting in the publication of our Sacred Literature in every tongue.

May that time soon come! Meanwhile, prayers and ardent best wishes are sent to all American Bahá’ís working in foreign fields, including Miss Agnes Alexander, Mme. Dreyfus-Barney, Dr. and Mrs. Howard Carpenter, Miss Julia Culver, Mr. and Mrs. Hyde Dunn, Mrs. Max Greeven, Mrs. Louise Gregory, Mrs. Emogene Hoagg, Miss Leonora Holzapple, Mrs. Lynch, Mr. Mountfort Mills, Dr. Susan I. Moody, Mrs. Marjorie Morten, Mr. and Mrs. H. H. Romer, Miss Martha Root, Miss Sanderson, Mrs. Edwin Scott, Miss Adelaide Sharp and Mrs. Sharp, Mr. Mark Tobey. The recent services rendered by Mrs. Louise

TEMPLE CONSTRUCTION PHOTOGRAPH (New Series) No. 14.

Details of the External Decoration in Place on October 24, 1933.

Erickson, Mrs. Grace Krug and Miss Louise Drake Wright are also gratefully in mind. If the records of the National Spiritual Assembly are incomplete, please notify the Secretary.

RECENT MESSAGES FROM THE GUARDIAN[edit]

In answer to questions asked the Guardian by the National Spiritual Assembly, he has sent the following explanations in a letter dated September 6, 1933, through his secretary: “Regarding the practice of congregational prayer, the Guardian wishes you to know that this form of prayer has been enjoined by Bahá’u’lláh only for the dead. In all other circumstances there is no obligation whatever imposed upon the believers. When the Aqdas is published the form of congregational prayer prescribed by Bahá’u’lláh will be made clear to all the believers.”

This instruction clarifies a matter which has been discussed here and there among local Bahá’í communities for some years.

“Regarding the nature of the Nineteen Day Feasts, the Guardian feels that the excellent statement on their nature, function and purpose published in one of the recent issues of the News Letter is so comprehensive and faithful in its presentation that he does not find it necessary to restate and enlarge upon the matter. He has no objection, however, if you feel the need to elaborate the thought expressed in that statement, stressing particularly the spiritual, administrative and social aspects of this vital Bahá’í institution.”

The statement referred to by the Guardian appeared in the July, 1933, number of BAHÁ’Í NEWS, on page 8. It is hoped that the friends have carefully noted what the National Spiritual Assembly set forth as its understanding of the Nineteen Day Feasts in that issue. The subject will only be amplified if any Local Spiritual Assembly reports that the matter is still not understood.

One of the American believers has shared with the National Assembly a letter from the Guardian dated August 30, 1933, which contains one statement so important that it is published here for the information of all believers: “To approach such well-known and important persons is always an extremely delicate matter, since it requires a good deal of wisdom, courage and ability. But those friends who really feel the urge to do so, and possess the necessary qualifications, should cultivate such friendships which, if properly done, can be of an immense benefit to the Cause. In any case, however, the assistance and help of either the local or the National Assembly is not only useful but necessary, if important contacts of this sort are to be fruitful and promising. The principle of consultation, which constitutes one of the basic laws of the Administration, should be applied to all Bahá’í activities which affect the collective interests of the Faith, for it is through cooperation and continued exchange of thoughts and views that the Cause can best safeguard and foster its interests. Individual initiative,

[Page 4] personal ability and resourcefulness, though indispensable are, unless supported and enriched by the collective experiences and wisdom of the group, utterly incapable of achieving such a tremendous task.”

To make this comment clearer it should be explained that the believer who received the Guardian’s letter had written a personal letter to a well known scientist, enclosing Bahá’í literature.

In connection with the Guardian’s emphasis on consultation, it is reported to the American believers that the National Spiritual Assembly has voted that Bahá’ís should seek to make contact with Federal and State officials only through the National Assembly, and refrain from personal activities involving the Cause with officers of the government. In the case of municipal officials, contact should be made only through the Local Assembly.

A powerful reinforcement and clear guidance for the future development of Bahá’í Summer Schools has been given by the Guardian in a letter written on September 25, 1933, to Mrs. Kirkpatrick and Mrs. Baker, members of the Central States Bahá’í Summer School Committee: “The basic purpose of all Bahá’í Summer Schools, whether in East or West, is to give the believers the opportunity to acquaint themselves, not only by mere study but through whole-hearted and active collaboration in various Bahá’í activities, with the essentials of the Administration and in this way enable them to become efficient and able promoters of the Cause. The teaching of the Administration is, therefore, an indispensable feature of every Bahá’í Summer School and its special significance can be better understood if we realize the great need of every believer today for a more adequate understanding of the social principles and laws of the Faith. It is now, when the Cause is passing through some of the most difficult stages of its development, that the friends should equip themselves with the necessary knowledge of the Administration. The Guardian wishes you, therefore, to stress again, in all coming summer schools, this vital point, and in this way add to the efficiency and success of your efforts along this line.”

The above letter carried these words in the Guardian’s hand: “I certainly advice you to concentrate next year on the “Dawn-Breakers” as well as on the needs, the principles and the purpose of Bahá’í Administration. The Cause in your land is still in its formative period. It needs men and women of vision, of capacity and understanding.”

Shoghi Effendi on October 23 cabled this beautiful message to Mme. Ali Kuli Khan, daughter of the late Mrs. Alice Ives Breed, one of the active and influential early believers: “Heartfelt sympathy your great sorrow. Mrs. Breed’s pioneer services ever gratefully remembered. Assure you fervent prayers. Love.”

(signed) SHOGHI.

“THE HEAD CORNERSTONE”[edit]

While engaged in compiling the Guardian’s words on the subject of the Annual Convention, published elsewhere in this issue, the National Spiritual Assembly was greatly impressed by the following statement which Shoghi Effendi wrote to the delegates and visitors to the Convention at Green Acre in 1925. (Published on page 79 of Bahá’í Administration).

“I would also earnestly entreat all the delegates at this coming Convention, and through them I appeal to the larger body of believers whom they represent, to ever bear in mind the supreme injunction of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to teach unceasingly until the ‘head cornerstone of the foundation’ of the Cause of God is firmly established in every heart. Let those whose time, resources and means allow, travel throughout the length and breadth of that vast continent, let them scatter to the most distant regions of the earth and, fired with enthusiasm and detachment, hand on the torch of God’s undying flame to the waiting multitudes of a sadly-stricken world.”

In these words the Guardian calls attention to a fundamental principle of the Bahá’í Faith, confirmed by numerous passages in Bahá’í Scriptures. Thus on page 109: “Every soul is commanded by God to deliver the truth and work for His Cause, and those who comply with His exalted command should first characterize themselves with the best characteristics and attributes; and then try to deliver the truth to the people, who if they be truthseekers will undoubtedly be attracted by the words of such teachers. If not so characterized, his mere words will not have the least effect in the hearts of the worshipers of God.”

And, on page 158: “In this day all must serve God with purity and virtue. The effect of the word spoken by the teacher depends upon his purity of purpose and his severance. Some are content with words, but the truth of words is tested by deeds and dependent upon life. Deeds reveal the station of the man. The words (of the teacher) must be according to what has proceeded from the mouth of the will of God and is recorded in Tablets.” On page 140: “O people of God! The rightly guided men of learning, who engage in enlightening the people and are protected and preserved from the temptations of inordinate desire—such men are accounted of the stars of the heaven of knowledge, before God, the Object of all the world.” On page 143: “It is made incumbent on every one of you to engage in some one occupation, such as arts, trades and the like. We have made this—your occupation—identical with the worship of God, the True One.... Waste not your time in idleness and indolence, and occupy yourselves with that which will profit yourselves and others besides yourselves. Thus hath the matter been decreed in this Tablet from the horizon of which the sun of wisdom and divine utterance is gleaming. The most despised of men before God is he who sits and begs. Cling unto the rape of means, relying upon God, the Causer of Causes. Every soul who occupies himself in an art or trade—this will be accounted an act of worship before God.”

Finally, the words on page 145: “Man should know his own self, and understand those things which lead to loftiness or to abasement, to shame or to honor, to affluence or to poverty. After man has realized his own being, and become mature, then (material) means are required. If wealth is acquired through a craft or profession, it is approvable and praiseworthy for men of wisdom, especially those who arise to train the world and beautify the souls of the nations.”

The National Spiritual Assembly is convinced that the time has come for all believers to “become mature” and give deeper thought to the spiritual foundations on which individual teaching effort, if it would be successful and reflect honor upon the Cause, is to be established.

We can no longer afford to ignore the fact that, in the past, errors have been made which are pardonable in the early days when enthusiasm inevitably outruns knowledge and personal desires cannot be properly guided by well tested community experience. But now the Teachings are thoroughly known, the Administrative institutions exist by which consulta-

[Page 5] tion can always be obtained on any local, national or international Bahá’í matter, and moreover the steady progress of Temple construction, coinciding with the collapse of civilization, serves to bring our beloved Faith into greater public prominence than ever before. Teaching activities hitherto carried on within a small and restricted circle will henceforth come into careful scrutiny and frequently unsympathetic analysis by the ablest people of our social environment.

An appeal is therefore made by the National Assembly to each and every member of the American Bahá’í community, first, that each follower of Bahá’u’lláh shall redouble his or her efforts to extend the influence of the Cause, and second, to make sure that all personal teaching activity is put forth under the right conditions. The Assembly hopes above all that no personal considerations of an economic character will be allowed by any of the friends of God to adulterate the purity of their public services. If a believer has the time and resources to travel and teach, the National Spiritual Assembly will reinforce that believer’s efforts with all its power; but if the door of means is temporarily closed, zealousness should be held in check and courageously self-disciplined until the unfavorable condition is removed. Local Assemblies and groups can assist greatly in the realization of this vital Bahá’í law by extending sympathetic consultation to any local or traveling believer who may be found to ignore its application to his or her personal life.

Hasty, ill-conceived measures, as Shoghi Effendi has pointed out, render no real service to the Faith, no matter how much personal self-satisfaction they may arouse. All of us alike are bound by the laws ordained by the Manifestation. Those who are wise enough to lay a strong foundation in the world of material means, and refrain for a time from sacrificing their permanent economic duties to any and every teaching effort adopted in defiance of the divine law, will in the end prove most faithful, and also most useful, to the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh. And of these, the believers content with a moderate living, that they may have more time and strength for Bahá’í service, are surely most beloved in His sight.

IN MEMORIAM[edit]

The friends are requested to remember in prayer the believers who have passed into the Kingdom:

Mr. Nels Peterson, Fruitport, Mich.

Mrs. Alice Ives Breed, New York.

Mrs. Keith Ransom-Kehler, New York.

Mrs. Harriet Sprague, New York.

PUBLISHING COMMITTEE[edit]

When announcement of new books and pamphlets is made, it is suggested that each Local Spiritual Assembly immediately order at least one copy to have on hand as a sample to show the local believers. Only in this way can the activities of the Publishing Committee be made most effective for the Cause.

Will Local Assemblies bear in mind the fact that the Publishing Committee allows a discount on Assembly orders for the sole purpose of enabling each Assembly and group to develop a new and important source of legitimate income to its local Bahá’í Fund. If this discount, in whole or in part, is taken merely to enable believers to buy literature at less than retail price, the purpose of this cooperation is frustrated, and the Publishing Committee in that case would be obliged to ask the National Spiritual Assembly for new instructions.

Of timely interest are: Study Outline for the Tablet of Iqan, $0.25 each, without discount; The Bahá’í Movement, sold in lots of ten copies only, ten for $1.00; Bahá’í Peace Program, in leather, $1.50, in paper, $0.50; The Traveler’s Narrative, $2.50; Whence Comes the Light, by Loulie A. Mathews, $0.25; World Economy of Bahá’u’lláh, in lots of ten only, ten copies for $1.00.

STUDY OUTLINES FOR CHILDREN[edit]

The Committee on Teaching and Training Children has issued Section IV, containing lessons 29 to 36, of its remarkable courses for children. A number of Local Assemblies have been using these Outlines for bringing up the next generation as true believers, and report enthusiastically on their value.

Assemblies and groups wishing to have the full series of lessons should write to Miss Charlotte M. Linfoot, secretary, 276 60th Street, Oakland, Calif.

INQUIRY FOR BAHA’I LECTURE SLIDES[edit]

The National Teaching Committee would like information on the present location of the Temple and other Bahá’í lantern slides which Miss Martha Root presented to the Cause a number of years ago. These slides can be used in connection with public lectures, and any believer who knows who has them is requested to write the chairman of the Teaching Committee, Mr. Leroy Ioas, 640 46th Avenue, San Francisco, Calif.

BAHA’I YOUTH ACTIVITY[edit]

A Statement by the National Assembly[edit]

The National Spiritual Assembly, in appointing a new National Committee, the Bahá’í Youth Committee, does so realizing the important position youth can fill in rounding out our Administrative activities, and in the profound hope this appointment may open a new point of teaching contact with the capable and universally minded youth of the world.

The particular functions which this Committee will undertake, are, first, the deepening and broadening of the knowledge of the Faith, both the Spiritual and Administrative aspects, of our younger members, by providing local youth committees with appropriate study courses, bibliographies, reference lists for teaching, courses for training of Bahá’í teachers; second, establishing sympathetic contact with non-Bahá’í youth so as to bring them into an appreciation of, as well as in support of the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh; and third, intensifying this field of teaching service by outlining methods of establishing Introductory Forums. Discussion Groups, Study Groups among attracted Friends, etc.

In order that the work may go forward with efficiency and enthusiasm will each Spiritual Assembly, at its earliest opportunity appoint a local Bahá’í Youth Committee, consisting of confirmed Bahá’ís, not over 25 years of age. This Committee, it should be understood, is not a separate administrative institution but simply a committee of the Spiritual Assembly, just as any other committee, and entirely responsible to it. In carrying on their activities, the youth should be permitted to study and conduct their meetings, etc., under their own direction, subject to the guidance of the Spiritual Assembly, gained through constant and loving consultation.

Let us all cooperate in this important teaching step that the high hopes of the Guardian, expressed in a letter to the Special Committee appointed last Spring by the National Assembly to investigate the field of Bahá’í

[Page 6] Youth service, may be fully realized:

“There are two important points which Shoghi Effendi would like you always to emphasize. In the first place he would strongly urge you to cooperate, heart and soul, with all the various Assemblies, groups and committees throughout the Bahá’í world, to ask for their assistance and help for the successful discharge of your duties and obligations, and in this way to try to build up an active and ready mind among the Bahá’í youth throughout the world. In other words, you should not confine your activities to the national sphere but you should strive to create under the supervision of your N. S. A. an international body of active young Bahá’í men and women who, conscious of their manifold and sacred responsibilities, will unanimously arise to spread the Holy Word. The second point which the Guardian wishes you to stress and to keep always in mind is the necessity for every loyal and active member of your committee to fully concentrate on the thorough study and understanding of the spiritual and administrative principles of the Faith, as a necessary step for active and fruitful teaching. You should first equip yourself with the necessary amount of knowledge about the Cause, and then, and only then, try to teach.”

A LETTER FROM THE BAHA’I YOUTH COMMITTEE[edit]

To the Young Bahá’ís Throughout the United States and Canada,

Dearest Friends:

The National Spiritual Assembly, in appointing a Bahá’í Youth Committee, has reminded us of an obligation which we had never fully recognized. With some sense of shock at our shortcomings, but with a greater sense of hope, the Committee addresses this letter to you, confident that we, as a united band of youth, will arise to correct our inadequacies.

No one, viewing the past achievements of young Bahá’ís could accuse us of indifference. We have truly loved the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh. But few of us have worked unitedly or greatly for it. Ours has been the fortune to live in an affluent order which supported us and nurtured our whims. We realized that the Manifestation would usher in “a new cycle of human power,” but the idea did not transform our innermost attitudes. But now since the economic failure, since the growing chaos brought on by the impotence of the League of Nations and the inability of governments to cooperate, since the manifest decline of all moral and ethical principles, we have grown firmly convinced that our destiny is indeed to live in the construction of a new world order—an order which must rise from and displace this helpless and decadent civilization. Within these two years, our convictions have found a rallying—point in the letters from Shoghi Effendi: The Goal of a New World Order, the Golden Age of the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh, America and the Most Great Peace. Surely none of us would now deny that it is the task of this generation, of this Bahá’í generation, to help build the framework for that wonderful conception.

Are we not then the actual citizens of a new world order? Our place is in the future; in a real sense we are the future. And we bear a tremendous responsibility to bring our vision into the world of concrete and everyday existence.

There are just two ways to do this, and those are the objectives of the Youth Committee and of all young Bahá’ís. We have, first, to extend our own knowledge of the Cause and of the world, to deepen our conception, to invigorate our faith; and secondly, we must carry this Faith to all of the young people of the world. We must not only become, ourselves, citizens in a new society, but we must help our friends to become so.

It was to initiate this real campaign that the Youth Committee was appointed. We must have in every Bahá’í community a hearty march against indifference. Will you not ask your Assembly to appoint a local youth committee to start this? Remind them to name members who are steady and energetic, above all firmly grounded in the Bahá’í Faith. We do not suggest any method of conducting such a group. We are sure that these problems you can best solve in consultation with your Assembly.

Let us have these committees appointed at once. Let us begin to organize the classes which we require. Let us work impatiently, and through the medium of the National Committee, keep in close contact. Our methods and vision will grow as our activities increase. Start now! Within a few weeks the National Committee will communicate with you.

Dear friends, this is the greatest opportunity of our lives. We alone, among young Americans, have a plan and an objective. We alone can be certain that each effort we exert is a constructive effort, one which in a forceful way is upraising among men the structure of tomorrow’s world.

BAHIYYIH LINDSTROM, Chairman,

PAUL HANEY,

GERTRUDE GEWERTZ,

SYLVIA PAINE,

ROSEMARY GILLIES.

BAHÁ’Í YOUTH COMMITTEE,

By: MARION HOLLEY, Secretary,

Box 492, Visalia, Calif.

THE NATURE AND AIMS OF THE ANNUAL BAHA’I CONVENTION[edit]

Compiled from the Guardian’s Letters to Conventions, to the General Body of Believers and to the National Spiritual Assembly[edit]

Foreword[edit]

The National Spiritual Assembly has prepared the following compilation for distribution to the entire body of American believers through BAHÁ’Í NEWS.

Careful study of the Guardian’s explanation of the function and high spiritual possibility of the Annual Convention is incumbent upon all the friends, in order that each may make his or her full contribution to the further development of the Bahá’í Faith.

The members of the National Spiritual Assembly take this opportunity to request all Local Assemblies to provide occasions for community consultation on the subject of the Convention, and to refer to the National Assembly any questions that may be raised or any suggestions that may be made, that all delegates elected for the 1934 Annual Convention may enter the Convention in full agreement on all the fundamental principles involved in this important meeting. All such questions and suggestions received soon enough will be brought to the Guardian’s attention with the request that they be clarified before the Convention opens.

1.[edit]

You stand at this challenging hour in the history of the Cause at the threshold of a new era; the functions you are called upon to discharge are fraught with immense possibilities; the responsibilities you shoulder are grave and momentous, and the eyes of many people are turned, at this hour, towards you, expectant to behold the dawning of a Day that shall witness the fulfilment of His Divine Promise.

Forgetful of the past and its vicissitudes, conscious of the need for renewed and combined effort, freed from all earthly limitations and motives, with every lingering trace of ill-feeling forever banished from our hearts, freshly united and determined, let us

[Page 7] join in deep and silent communion with the ever-watchful Spirit of our beloved ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’, and with humility and earnestness supplicate for the guidance that will enable us to fulfil the task which is now committed to our charge.—To the Convention delegates. April 8, 1923.

2.[edit]

It is expressly recorded in ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Writings that these National Assemblies must be indirectly elected by the friends; that is, the friends in every country must elect a certain number of delegates, who in their turn will elect from among all the friends in that country the members of the National Spiritual Assembly. In such countries, therefore, as America, Great Britain and Germany, a fixed number of secondary electors must first be decided upon (95 for America, including the Pacific Islands; 95 for Germany; and 19 for Great Britain). The friends then in every locality where the number of adult declared believers exceeds nine* must directly elect its quota of secondary electors assigned to it in direct proportion to its numerical strength. These secondary electors will then, either through correspondence, or preferably by gathering together, and first deliberating upon the affairs of the Cause throughout their country (as the delegates to the Convention), elect from among all the friends in that country the nine who will be the members of the National Spiritual Assembly.—To the believers of America, Great Britain, Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy, Japan and Australia. March 12, 1923.

3.[edit]

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 repeatedly set before them. They can claim the admiration, the support and eventually the allegiance of their fellow-countrymen only by their strict regard for the dignity, the welfare, and the unity of the Cause of God, by their zeal, their disinterestedness, and constancy in the service of mankind, and by demonstrating, through their words and deeds, the need and practicability of the lofty principles which the Movement has proclaimed to the world.—To the American National Spiritual Assembly, November 26, 1923.

4.[edit]

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 assurance that every Assembly elected in that rarified atmosphere of selflessness and detachment is, in truth, appointed of God, that its verdict is truly inspired, that one and all should submit to its decision unreservedly and with cheerfulness.

Let us first strive to fulfill these conditions, difficult yet essential, in our lives, so that, contented and assured, we may make of this new year of activity a year of abundant blessings, of unprecedented achievements.

May this dearest wish be fulfilled! —To the American believers, February 23, 1924.

5.[edit]

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 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. It is my firm conviction that it is the bounden duty, in the interest of the Cause we all love and serve, of the members of the incoming National Assembly, once elected by the delegates at Convention time, to seek and have the utmost regard, individually as well as collectively, for the advice, the considered opinion and the true sentiments of the assembled delegates. Banishing every vestige of secrecy, of undue reticence, of dictatorial aloofness, from their midst, they should radiantly unfold to the eyes of the delegates, by whom they are elected, their plans, their hopes, and their cares. They should familiarize the delegates with the various matters that will have to be considered in the current year, and calmly and conscientiously study and weigh the opinions and judgments of the delegates. The newly elected National Assembly, during the few days when the Convention is in session and after the dispersal of the delegates, should seek ways and means to cultivate understanding, facilitate and maintain the exchange of views, deepen confidence, and vindicate by every tangible evidence their one desire to serve and advance the common weal. Not infrequently, nay oftentimes, the most lowly, untutored and inexperienced among the friends will, by the sheer inspiring force of selfless and ardent devotion, contribute a distinct and memorable share to a highly involved discussion in any given Assembly. Great must be the regard paid by those whom the delegates call upon to serve in high position to this all-important though inconspicuous manifestation of the revealing power of sincere and earnest devotion.

The National Spiritual Assembly, however, in view of the unavoidable limitations imposed upon the convening of frequent and long-standing sessions of the Convention, will have to retain in its hands the final decision on all matters that affect the interests of the Cause in America, such as the right to decide whether any local Assembly is functioning in accordance with the principles laid down for the conduct and the advancement of the Cause. It is my earnest prayer that they will utilize their highly responsible position, not only for the wise and efficient conduct of the affairs of the Cause, but also for the extension and deepening of the spirit of cordiality and wholehearted and mutual support in their cooperation with the body of their co-workers throughout the land. The seating of delegates to the Convention, i. e., the right to decide upon the validity of the creden-

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* The Guardian’s first instruction was that a Spiritual Assembly should be elected in communities having more time than nine declared believers; this instruction was later modified by the statement that a group of exactly nine believers may constitute themselves a Spiritual Assembly by joint declaration.—EDITOR.

[Page 8] tials of the delegates at a given Convention, is vested in the outgoing National Assembly, and the right to decide who has the voting privilege is also ultimately placed in the hands of the National Spiritual Assembly, either when a local Spiritual Assembly is for the first time being formed in a given locality, or when differences arise between a new applicant and an already established local Assembly. While the Convention is in session and the accredited delegates have already elected from among the believers throughout the country the members of the National Spiritual Assembly for the current year, it is of infinite value and a supreme necessity that as far as possible all matters requiring immediate decision should be fully and publicly considered, and an endeavor be made to obtain after mature deliberation unanimity in vital decisions. Indeed, it has ever been the cherished desire of our Master, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, that the friends in their councils, local as well as national, should by their candor, their honesty of purpose, their singleness of mind, and the thoroughness of their discussions, achieve unanimity in all things. Should this in certain cases prove impracticable the verdict of the majority should prevail, to which decision the minority must under all circumstances, gladly, spontaneously and continually, submit.

Nothing short of the all-encompassing, all-pervading power of His Guidance and Love can enable this newly-enfolded order to gather strength and flourish amid the storm and stress of a turbulent age, and in the fulness of time vindicate its high claim to be universally recognized as the one Haven of abiding felicity and peace.—To the American National Spiritual Assembly. January 29, 1925.

6.[edit]

Regarding the method to be adopted for the election of the National Spiritual Assemblies, it is clear that the text of the Beloved’s Testament gives us no indication as to the manner in which these Assemblies are to be elected. In one of His earliest Tablets, however, addressed to a friend in Persia, the following is expressly recorded:—

“At whatever time all the beloved of God in each country appoint their delegates, and these in turn elect their representatives, and these representatives elect a body, that body shall be regarded as the Supreme Baytu’l-Adl (Universal House of Justice).”

These words clearly indicate that a three-stage election has been provided by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá for the formation of the International House of Justice, and as it is explicitly provided in His Will and Testament that the “Secondary House of Justice (i. e., National Assemblies) must elect the members of the Universal One,” it is obvious that the members of the National Spiritual Assemblies will have to be indirectly elected by the body of the believers in their respective provinces. In view of these complementary instructions the principle, set forth in my letter of March 12, 1923, has been established requiring the believers (the beloved of God) in every country to elect a certain number of delegates who, in turn, will elect their national representatives (Secondary House of Justice or National Spiritual Assembly) whose sacred obligation and privilege will be to elect in time God’s Universal House of Justice.

Should the appointing of the delegates be made a part of the functions of local Spiritual Assemblies, who are already elected bodies, the principle of a four-stage election would be introduced which would be at variance with the provisions explicitly laid down in the Master’s Tablet. On the other hand, were the local Spiritual Assemblies, the number of whose members is strictly confined to nine, to elect directly the members of the National Spiritual Assembly—thus maintaining the principle of a three-stage election—all Bahá’í localities, which must necessarily differ in numerical strength, would then have to share equally in the election of the National Spiritual Assembly—a practice which would be contrary to fairness and justice. Moreover, the central principle guiding for the present the administration of the Cause has been to make the Bahá’í National Spiritual Assemblies as independent as possible in the conduct of such affairs as fall within their province, and to lessen the hampering influence of any institution within their jurisdiction that might, whether directly or indirectly, impair their authority and prestige.—To the American National Spiritual Assembly. May 12, 1925.

7.[edit]

And now 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. We should first and foremost endeavor by every means to revitalize our precious Cause, rudely shaken by the constant vicissitudes attending the outward departure of a vigilant and gracious Master. Our next object should be to seek to approach, through more intimate association, fuller and more frequent consultation, and a closer familiarity with the character, the mission and the teachings of the Cause, that standard of excellence which should characterize the cooperative efforts of Bahá’í Communities in every land.

High aims and pure motives, however laudable in themselves, will surely not suffice if unsupported by measures that are practicable and methods that are sound. Wealth of sentiment, abundance of good-will and effort, will prove of little avail if we should fail to exercise discrimination and restraint and neglect to direct their flow along the most profitable channels. The unfettered freedom of the individual should be tempered with mutual consultation and sacrifice, and the spirit of initiative and enterprise should be reinforced by a deeper realization of the supreme necessity for concerted action and a fuller devotion to the common weal.

It would be impossible at this stage to ignore the indispensability or to over-estimate the unique significance of the institution of the National Spiritual Assembly—the pivot round which revolve the activities of the believers throughout the American continent. Supreme is their position, grave their responsibility, manifold and arduous their duties. How great the privilege, how delicate the task of the assembled delegates whose function it is to elect such national representatives as would by their record of service ennoble and enrich the annals of the Cause! If we but turn our gaze to the high qualifications of the members of Bahá’í Assemblies, as enumerated in ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Tablets, we are filled with feelings of unworthiness and dismay, and would feel truly disheartened but for the comforting thought that if we rise to play nobly our part every deficiency in our lives will be more than compensated by the all-conquering spirit of His grace and power. Hence it is incumbent upon the chosen delegates to consider without the least trace of passion and prejudice, and irrespective of an material consideration, the names of only those who can best combine the necessary qualities of unquestioned loyalty,

[Page 9] of selfless devotion, of a well-trained mind, of recognized ability and mature experience.—To the Convention delegates. June 3, 1925.

8.[edit]

In connection with the annual holding of the Bahá’í Convention and Congress, I feel that although such a representative body need not be convened necessarily every year, yet it is highly desirable, in view of the unique functions it fulfills in promoting harmony and good-will, in removing misunderstandings and in enhancing the prestige of the Cause, that the National Spiritual Assembly should exert itself to gather together annually the elected representatives of the American believers. It would in some ways be obviously convenient and eminently desirable though not absolutely essential, if the National Spiritual Assembly could arrange that the holding of such a Congress should synchronize with the time at which the national elections are renewed, and that both events should take place, if not on the first of Ridván, at least during the twelve joyous days of what may be justly regarded as the foremost Bahá’í Festival. Apart from the local elections, which universally are to be renewed on the 21st day of April, it is entirely left to the discretion of the National Spiritual Assembly to decide, after having given due ‎consideratiton consideration‎ to the above mentioned observations, on whatever time and place the Bahá’í Convention as well as the annual elections are to be held. Were the National Spiritual Assembly to decide, after mature deliberation, to omit the holding of the Bahá’í Convention and Congress in a given year, then they could, only in such a case, devise ways and means to insure that the annual election of the National Spiritual Assembly should be held by mail, provided it can be conducted with sufficient thoroughness, efficiency and dispatch. It would also appear to me unobjectionable to enable and even to require in the last resort such delegates as cannot possibly undertake the journey to the seat of the Bahá’í Convention to send their votes, for the election of the National Spiritual Assembly only, by mail to the National Secretary, as in my view the advantages of such a procedure outweigh the considerations referred to in your letter. It should, however, be made clear to every elected delegate—who should be continually reminded—that it is a sacred responsibility and admittedly preferable to attend if possible in person the sessions of the Convention, to take an active part in all its proceedings, and to acquaint his fellow-workers on his return with the accomplishments, the decisions and the aspirations of the assembled representatives of the American believers.—To the American National Spiritual Assembly. October 24, 1925.

9.[edit]

In connection with the best and most practical methods of procedure to be adopted for the election of Bahá’í Spiritual Assemblies, I feel that in view of the fact that definite and detailed regulations defining the manner and character of Bahá’í elections have neither been expressly revealed by Bahá’u’lláh nor laid down in the Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, it devolves upon the members of the Universal House of Justice to formulate and apply such system of laws as would be in conformity with the essentials and requisites expressly recorded by the Author and Interpreter of the Faith for the conduct of Bahá’í administration. I have consequently refrained from establishing a settled and uniform procedure for the election of the Assemblies of the East and the West, leaving them free to pursue their own methods of procedure which in most cases had been instituted and practised during the last two decades of the life of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

The general practice prevailing throughout the East is the one based upon the principle of plurality rather than absolute majority, whereby those candidates that have obtained the highest number of votes, irrespective of the fact whether they command an absolute majority of the votes cast or not, are automatically and definitely elected. It has been felt, with no little justification, that this method, admittedly disadvantageous in its disregard of the principle that requires that each elected member must secure a majority of the votes cast, does away on the other hand with the more serious disadvantage of restricting the freedom of the elector who, unhampered and unconstrained by electoral necessities, is called upon to vote for none but those whom prayer and reflection have inspired him to uphold. Moreover, the practice of nomination, so detrimental to the atmosphere of a silent and prayerful election, is viewed with mistrust inasmuch as it gives the right to the majority of a body that, in itself under the present circumstances, often constitutes a minority of all the elected delegates, to deny that God-given right of every elector to vote only in favor of those who he is conscientiously convinced are the most worthy candidates.

Should this simple system be provisionally adopted, it would safeguard the spiritual principle of the unfettered freedom of the voter, who will thus preserve intact the sanctity of the choice he first made. It would avoid the inconvenience of securing advance nominations from absent delegates and the impracticality of associating them with the assembled electors in the subsequent ballots that are often required to meet the exigencies of majority vote.

I would recommend these observations to your earnest consideration, and whatever decision you arrive at, all local Assemblies and individual believers, I am certain, will uphold, for their spiritual privilege is not only to consult freely and frequently with the National Spiritual Assembly, but to uphold as well with confidence and cheerfulness whatever is the considered verdict of their national representatives.—To the American National Spiritual Assembly. May 27, 1927.

10.[edit]

The Guardian wishes the N. S. A. to remind, and make it quite clear to, the believers in that land that the supreme body in the United States and Canada, whose privilege and function is to lay down, amend and abrogate the administrative principles of the Faith with the approval of the Guardian, is not the Convention, however representative it may be, but the N. S. A. On the other hand, it is the sacred obligation and the primary function of the National Assembly not to restrict under any circumstances, the freedom of the assembled delegates, whose twofold function is to elect their national representatives and to submit to them any recommendations they may feel inclined to make. The function of the Convention is purely advisory and though the advice it gives is not binding in its effect on those on whom rest the final decision in purely administrative matters, yet, the utmost caution and care should be exercised lest anything should hamper the delegates in the full and free exercise of their function. In discharging this sacred function no influence whatever, no pressure from any quarter, even though it be from the National Assembly, should under any circumstances affect their views or restrict their freedom. The delegates must be wholly independent of any administrative agency, must approach their task with absolute detachment and must concentrate their attention on the most important and pressing issues.

[Page 10] The Guardian believes that the right to elect the chairman and the secretary of the Convention should be vested in the assembled delegates, lest any objection be raised that the members of the outgoing National Assembly are seeking to direct the course of the discussion in a manner that would be conductive to their own personal interests. The National Assembly, however, must at all times vigilantly uphold, defend, justify and enforce the provisions of the Declaration of Trust and By-Laws which are binding on the Convention no less than on themselves. The N. S. A. has the right to lay down, enforce and interpret the National Constitution of the Bahá’ís in that land. It cannot, if it wishes to remain faithful to that Constitution, lay down any regulations, however secondary in character, that would in the least hamper the unrestricted liberty of the delegates to advise and elect those whom they feel best combine the necessary qualifications for membership of so exalted a body.

Non-delegates, however, according to the Guardian’s considered opinion, should not be given the right to intervene directly during the sessions of the Convention. Only through an accredited delegate they should be given indirectly the chance to voice their sentiments and to participate in the deliberations of the Convention. Much confusion and complications must inevitably result in the days to come, it such a restriction be not imposed on a gathering which is primarily intended for the accredited delegates of the Bahá’í communities. Bearing this restriction in mind, it is the duty of the N. S. A. to devise ways and means which would enable them to obtain valuable suggestions, not only from the total number of the elected delegates, but from as large a body of their fellow-workers as is humanly possible.

Shoghi Effendi has not departed from any established Administrative principle. He feels he has neither curtailed the legislative authority of the N. S. A. nor invested the Convention with undue powers enabling it to rival or supersede those whom it has to elect. What the Guardian is aiming at is to remind the friends, more fully than before, of the two cardinal principles of Bahá’í Administration, namely, the supreme and ‎unchallengable unchallengeable‎ authority of the N. S. A. in national affairs working within the limits imposed by the Declaration of Trust and By-Laws, and the untrammelled freedom of the Convention delegates to advise, deliberate on the actions, and appoint the successors of their National Assembly. The Guardian is confident that you will elucidate and give the widest publicity to these already established principles, upon which the progress, the unity and welfare of Bahá’í administrative institutions must ultimately depend.—To the American National Spiritual Assembly, through the Guardian’s secretary. August 12, 1933.

The utmost care and vigilance should be exercised lest any fresh misunderstandings arise regarding these fundamental issues. The root principle of Bahá’í Administration is unreservedly maintained. No departure from its established tenets is contemplated. The undisputed authority of America’s supreme Bahá’í administrative body has bean reaffirmed, while on the other hand, the untrammelled freedom of individual believers and delegates to exercise their functions has been once again reaffirmed and strengthened. On the continuous and harmonious cooperation of the two leading Bahá’í institutions in America, the growth and success of the administration bequeathed by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá must ultimately depend. May next year’s Convention witness the triumph of these basic principles.—To the American National Spiritual Assembly. August 12, 1933 (the Guardian’s postscript to the foregoing letter).