Bahá’í World/Volume 32/Worldwide Jubilee
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Worldwide Jubilee —
50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE OPENING OF THE TEN YEAR CRUSADE
In 2003—04, man] Ba/ui'l mmmunitiex celebrated tlm'r golden jubilee: and remembered the beginning afar: ambitious globalplanfizr [hr txpamian of the Baht! '1’ Paid).
ineteen fifty—three was a momentous year for members of Nthe Bahai’f Faith. Intercontinental conferences convened in
Africa, Asia, and North America, and the year saw comple— tion oftwo major projects: the superstructure of the Shrine of the Ba’b in Haifa, Israel, and the dedication of the House ofWorship in Wilmette, Illinois, USA. These triumphs offered visible and compel- ling proof of the growing influence and prominence of the Bahé’f community. But the victories that were to follow that year would be greater still.
Shoghi EFfendi chose 1953 to inaugurate a worldwide “Spiritual Crusade” that would span a decade and have as its intent the spread of the Bahai’l’ Faith to those nations and territories not yet “opened" to the Faith. Known as the Ten Year Crusade, the campaign was the latest in a succession of plans implemented by Shoghi Effendj to carry out the mandate for the spread of the Faith initiated in ‘Abdu’l-Bahé’s Tablets of the Divine Plan.
Calling the plan “at once arduous, audacious, challenging, unprecedented in scope and character in the entire field of Bahé’f his— tory," Shoghi Effendi challenged the Bethe“ community to “achieve
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42 THE BAHA’I’ WORLD 2003—2004
in a single decade feats eclipsing in totality the achievements which in the course of the eleven preceding decades illuminated the annals of Bahé’f pioneering.”‘
The objectives for the plan were fourfold: development of the institutions at the Bahzi’i' World Centre, consolidation ofexisting and newly formed Bahé’i communities, and expansion to “unopened” territories, where there were no Bahé’i’s. The ambitious scheme in— cluded introducing the Faith to some 131 countries and territories and forming 48 new National Spiritual Assemblies.
Also included were resolutions to vastly increase available Bahé'l' literature and translate Bahé’i texts into many new languages, to erect two new Houses of Worship, and to greatly expand not only the number of Spiritual Assemblies around the world but also the number that had achieved legal incorporation} The culmination of the Ten Year Plan came in 1963, coinciding with the centenary of Bahé’u’lléh's public proclamation of His mission and the first elec— tion of the Universal House ofjustice.
Shoghi EFFendi carefully plotted out the course of the campaign, outlining its aims and assigning to each continent certain duties and responsibilities. Previous plans had made initial steps in spreading the Faith in Latin America, Africa, and Europe, but this global plan greatly expanded both the range of activity and the size of expectations.3
Notwithstanding the tremendous accomplishments called For by the plan, its spiritual significance was its most distinguishing trait. Shoghi Eflfendi wrote that “the primary aim of this Spiritual Crusade is none Other than the conquest of the citadels of men’s hearts.” And once the plans were delineated. individuals began to respond almost immediately to pursue that “conquest”—eager to bring the Faith’s teachings to new territories and inspire the peoples of the world.with its message.
News ofvictories in country after country spread. as many people set out From their homes to participate in this unprecedented expan- sion in the global scope of the Bahé’f Faith. Those who rose up to assist the execution of the plan were distinguished by their spiritual strength and courage, choosing for themselves lives of sacrifice and hardship in order to spread the Faith around the world.
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T hose who carried the Faith to those virgin nations and territories were given the accolade “Knight of Bahé’u’lléh.” a title not only appropriate to the crusade metaphor but also a fitting tribute to their perseverance and steadfastness through adversity. The victories won by the Knights, as well as by others who arose to support the plan’s objectives, were seeds that have now borne fruit in many countries where vibrant Bahai’l communities contribute, through the application ol'Bahé’l' principles, to the welfare of their societies.
Throughout the next 10 years, Bahé’f communities in those coun— tries will hold anniversary celebrations commemorating triumphs won half a century ago and the development of their communities in the intervening years. i
In 2003—04. Bahé'is in Africa, Asia, Australasia. Europe. and North America all had opportunity to come together and reflect on both the circumstances of their beginnings and their prospects for the future. It would be impossible here to comprehensively examine the activities and effects of the Bahé'l' communities in each of the countries, or to provide a complete survey of their illustrious histories. but the following presents some highlights of these anniversary gatherings.‘y
Africa CAMEROON The achievements by the Bahé’ls of Cameroon were among the most remarkable in the Ten Year Crusade. In 1953 ‘Alt' and Violette Nafljava’nl and Enoch Olinga undertook a difficult twcymonth car journey across Africa from Uganda with two other Bahé'ls to estab- lish the Faith in Cameroon and other countries. Then, in early April [954, Shoghi Elfendi told Mr. Olinga that he wanted some Bahé'ls in Cameroon to take the Faith to five other countries and territories by 21 April, the First Day of Ridvén. When there were more volunteers than needed, the Bahé’r’s decided to choose the names by lot. Samuel Njiki went to French Cameroon (now part of Camer— oon), David Tanyi departed for French Togoland (now Togo), and three others went to territories now part of Ghana: Edward Tabe moved to British Togoland, Benedict Eballa to Ashanti Protectorate,
44 THE BAHA’I’ WORLD 2003~1004
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and Martin Manga to Northern Territories Protectorate. Each of the five men was later named a Knight of Bahé’u'lléh.
Meanwhile, so many people had become Bahé'is in Limbe through the efforts of Enoch Olinga in the few months since the Faith had been introduced in the country that a Local Spiritual As- sembly was formed there in April I954. Shoghi Effendi referred to Mr. Olinga as Abu’l—Futfih, a designation meaning uthe father of victories," and he was later appointed as a Hand of the Cause of God in addition to being named a Knight of Bahé’u’lléh for British Cameroon.
The Bahé’f community in Cameroon is>now 40,000 strong, with 58 Local Spiritual Assemblies. The country currently comprises the former French Cameroon and part of the former British Cameroon, which merged in 1961. The first National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahé’is of Cameroon was elected in 1967.
More than 560 Bahé'is From all regions of Cameroon attended the 50th jubilee celebrations in Yaounde on 22 and 23 August 2003. Other guests came from Australia, Botswana, Canada, Equatorial Guinea, France, Morocco, Rwanda. Uganda, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Among the guests of honor were George Olinga. son of Enoch Olinga, and former member of the Universal House ufjustice ‘Ali Nfijavfinf and his wife. Violette. Other prominent guests included Joan Lincoln. Counsellor member of the International Teaching Centre; her husband Albert Lincoln, Secretary—General of the Bahé’i International Community; Knight of Bahé’u'lléh Benedict Eballa; and Tiati é Zock, member of the Continental Board of Counsellors for Africa.
The celebrations included music and two evenings dedicated entirely to cultural performances. Some 15 groups from all parts of the country, each comprising about 20 people. presented songs, poetry, and traditional dance.
DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO
The Bahé’fs of the Democratic Republic of the Congo marked the 50th anniversary of the Faith's activities within its borders with cel— ebrations in Kinshasa on 6 and 7 September 2003. Guests ofhonor at
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the jubilee included ‘Alf and Violette Nakhjavfim' and Joan and Albert Lincoln. All four had spent many years as pioneers in Africa.
Jean Baptiste Nsa Lobete, Political and Diplomatic Counselor to the Governor of Kinshasa, spoke at the opening of the jubilee, saying that Baha'f efforts in the country “justify the respect that the authorities of this country feel towards the Baha’t’ community.”
The Bahé'fs in the country have experienced much adversity as a result of the nation's political strife. Colonial authorities did not permit the promotion of the Faith by Bahé'l pioneers before 1953. Though there had been Baha’i visitors to the country, they were pre- vented from spreading the Faith. Efl'orts to teach the Faith there did not begin until the Nathavénfs, driving across Africa from Uganda, took Ugandan Baha'i Samson Mungongo to the city of Kamina. At the same time, some Congolese who had become Baha'is in Rwanda and Burundi moved back to settle in their home provinces. The first Local Spiritual Assembly was elected in 1957: there are now 541. The first National Spiritual Assembly formed in [970.
A reconciliation program is now under way after five years of tut- moil in this country (which was once known as the Belgian Congo, and then, after independence in [960, by a variety of other names, including Zaire). The turmoil had prevented all nine members of the National Spiritual Assembly from meeting together since 1998 until the jubilee.
The Vice-Chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly, Sefu Lemba, read a message from the Universal House of Justice that lauded the community’s sreadfasmess in the face of its trials: “De— spite years of political strife and adversity that have severely tom the Fabric of the society around you, the spirits of the believers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo have remained unbroken, and you have managed to lay the foundations of a community whose influence is felt throughout the continent.”
The jubilee program included songs from the Dawn of Carmel Choir, including performers who won acclaim throughout the Baha’i world as the Congo Youth Choir at the opening of the terraces on Mount Carmel in Haifa, Israel, in May 2001. Among many oth- ers to sing were the Nawab Choir, and the Mona Choir from the neighboring Republic of the Congo.
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Among Ihc 600 participants at the celebrations in {he Capital were rhrcc ofthc first Congolese Ballfi’l’s: Louis Selemuni. Remy Knlonji. and Valericn Mukcndi, now all in their 805. They were joined by a dozen formcr pioneers from Europe. North America. and other parts qufi'ica. Bnlni‘l's in rcmoic areas who were unable to attend the main jubilee R‘stivixies in Kinshasa held thuir own Cclcbrarions in support oflhe main event.
REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO
The Balls“ community in the Republic of the Congo celebrated its golden jubilee by honoring the struggles Oflhf past and looking forward (0 in Future. Two hundred people attended the sorh anniver- sary celebrations in Brumvillc from 2.9 m 31 August 1003.71“: event included 18 theatrical and musical performances, including a play by :1 Ihcnrur lmupc from Pointc Noire and a film (hzu highlighted the history 0F ([1: Faith in the country.
Seven: political and social unrest in the country has affected the Bahé'l’ cmnmunity. but the survival of [he Fairh in the Congo is :1 testament m thc patience and fortitude OFIhe Bahzi‘l's. The national
48 THE BAHA’I’ WORLD 2003—2004
Bahzi‘l' ccntcr—thc venue of thc jubilee fbsrivitics~—was seized by the Communist regime in 1978 and occupied for I4 years. during which period the Bahé‘f community was forced to stop its organized .lCIiViliCS. Bnhé'ix supported (me another through mutual encour- agcnmnt and informal family contacts. hut withnut thcir elected adminislrativc bodies.
\X’hcn the Bahai'l' community was rcinsmted in I992, after the clcction nfa new democratic government, the Bahi’x’s regained use of thc national center. were able to reestablish thcir administrative bodies. and resumed their community activities. There are now 10 Local Spiritual Assemblies. and thc Bahgi'l‘ community is an active contributor to the country's dcvclopmcm.
Thc Bahi‘l' Faith came to what is now the Republic Oflhe Congo (m 20 September 1953. when Ugandan Max Kanyerczi arrived in Bruzmvillc with 'All' and Violette Nufljavini. He was thc first Bahzi'l' to reside in the country. then known as Middle Congo, and was named a Knight of Bahzi‘u'llzih.
Thc Naflinvém’s returned to lhc country (0 attend the 50th ju« hilcu celebration, along with Bahzi‘i guests Juan and thrt Lincoln
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and Dr. Ezutullnh Tai, who played a kcy role in assisting the growth ofthc Congolese Bahé’i community. Special guests included Roger Packa. the Cabinet Director for the High Commission charged with Moral and Spiritual Education, a branch of the Presidency of the Republic of the Congo.
National (clavision news reported on the jubilcc. and Albert Lincoln gave rm interview on the radio and on on: of the country's most popular TV shows.
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LESOTHO
Following a reception at the national Bahé‘f center. morc than 170 Bahzi'l's gulhcrrd at the Lesotho Sun Hotel for two days of cel- ebrations. Gucsts came from South Africa and Swaziland to enjoy pcrfornmnccs ofdance. music, and storytelling fur the community's 50th anniversary. held 10—12 October 2003 in Maseru. The Buthu Buthe Bahai'l' Choir. the Men‘s Chair from Lesotho. and the Swazi- land Bahfi‘l' Choir all performed at the event, and a group from South Africa, chond Words. performed dances and depicted the lives of the first Lesotho Bahé'is in a play written For the occasion.
Contincntal Counsellor Enos Makhelc of South Africa spokc about the historical significance of the anniversary and Mapeko Mofolo. the Secretary of the National Assembly. told stories about the early days ofthc Bahi‘l’ Faith in Lesotho.
50 THE BAHA’I WORLD 2003—2004
The first Bahé'is to arrive in the region. then known as Basu— toland. were Frederick and Elizabeth Laws from the United States, who arrived in the country on 13 October 1953 and were each named Knights of Bahé’u’lléh.
The affection they earned from the local people was reflected in the endearing nicknames they received: Mrs. Laws became known simply as “Malerato” (Mother of Love) and Mr. Laws as “Lento” (Love). They stayed in Basutoland for 30 months, but when Mr. Laws could not get a work permit. they were Forced to depart for South Africa. By that time there were 85 Bahé’fs in Lesotho and five Local Spiritual Assemblies. The community continued to grow even without its founding members, and the first National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahé’fs of Lesotho formed in 1971. There are now 26 Local Spiritual Assemblies, and Bahé'fs live in more than 470 localities throughout the nation.
MADAGASCAR
Representatives ofBahé’f communities on four Indian Ocean islands gathered to celebrate from 19 to 21 December 2.003 in Antanana— rivo, Madagascar. Fifty Bahé‘fs came from Réunion, Mauritius, and Seychelles to join with the 120 Malagasy Bahé'fs and visitors from Africa, Europe, and North America. Special guests included Malagasy government ministers, local government leaders, and representatives of other religious communities.
Interior Minister General Soja spoke at the gathering about the world-embracing'ptinciples of the Faith, noting the origin of the community on 21 April 1953, with the arrival of Mehetangiz Munsiff. Ill health forced her to leave the country only a few months later, but by that time Danile Randrianarivo had become the first Malagasy to accept the Faith. Mrs. MunsiFFs daughter, Jyoti, attended the jubilee and told stories of the early days of the Faith in Madagascar.
The first Local Spiritual Assembly of the Bahé’l's of Tananative was formed two years after Mrs. Munsifi's arrival, in April 1955, and the first National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahai'fs of Madagascar was elected in 1972. There are now 33 Local Spiritual Assemblies.
The celebrations garnered extensive media coverage: several newspapers published articles about the events, and the national television channel covered the closing ceremony.
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The group IMM’ ( [1/41"qu At‘liI/r Bd/m' '1' Youth) pnfirming at 1/” (01/) jubi/er oft/Ir le/m' '1' Faith in A'Iulawi.
MALAWI
Bahé‘x’s came From all over Malawi and nearby African countries such as Lesotho. South Africa, and Zambia to join in the celebrations thd in Lilongwe on 9 August 2003. Other guests came from as far away as Australia, Bermuda. and Mauritius.
Jubilee festivitics included a formal reception held at the Capital Hotel, where guest of honor Counsellor Enos Makhclc ofSouth Af- rica gave a talk on [he Bahd’i Faith. Among the distinguished gucsrs were British High Commissioner Norman Ling and Lilongwe (:in Councilor Stella ’I'hunyani.
In her address, Councilor Thunyani spoke of the oneness. of humanity and the unity of religions. "You may wish to ask yourself
- 15 to why a group ofpcople of different races and crecds :er dining
together in a friendly atmosphere,“ Councilor Thunyani said. “I feel
52 THE BAHA’I’ WORLD 2003—2004
it is through the divine love which is taught to us by the different messengers of God that we are one.”
Members of the Bali“ community recalled the struggles of the early days, caused by the separation of whites and blacks. Enayat Sohaili, a Bahé’l' of Persian background, had arrived From India in 1953 and was classified as white, while the first Malawian Bahé‘l, Dudley Smith Kumtendere, was black. These two original mem- bers of the Baha"! community in Malawi would meet in the bush at night where they would say prayers, discuss plans, and then go their separate ways.
The colonial policy of discouraging racially mixed gatherings ended when Malawi, once known as Nyasaland, gained its indepen— dence in 1964. Since then. Bahd'ls have been able to meet openly and work in support of racial harmony in the country.
There are now some 15,000 Bahé’ls in Malawi, along with a national center. 15 local Bahé’f centers, l'WO institute buildings, and 101 Local Spiritual Assemblies.
MAURITIUS
Representatives of three generations of Bahé'fs joined in the celebration in Port Louis, Mauritius, held from 12 to 14 December 2003. Members of the first generation of Bahé’is appeared on the stage and lit candles held by representatives of the second generation of Mauritian believers, who in turn passed on the light to the third generation. Five members of the first generation spoke to the hundreds gathered at the event about the initial yeaJ's, which were laden with difficulties and triumphs.
A group of youth presented an Indian dance and then depicted in a short dramatic sketch the introduction of the Faith to Mauritius and the events that led up to the current focus on children’s classes, devotional meetings, and study circles. The youth workshops Citoyens du Monde (Citizens of the World). Melody Channel, and the Diversity Dance Workshop also performed at the event.
Speakers included Eddy Lutchmaya, a member of the Continen— tal Board of Counsellors for Africa, Bahfi’i author Lowell Johnson, and long-standing Bahfi’fs Sir Harry Tirvengadum, Paul Fabien, Retnon Muree, and Somoo Valayden.
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a display at the mmmy} anniversary gathering.
The Vice—I’resident of the Republic ()fMauritius, Raouf Bund- hun, spoke at the event as the guest ofhonor and offered the Bahzi‘l' community his best wishes for “success and great achievements in the Future." saying. “The Bahé't’ community has all the time been working assiduously, discreetly, and with a seriousness of purpose, and promoting the development of its members and the welfare of the people at large,”
Special guest speaker Dr. Graham Walker of the United Kingdom described how only three years after the 1953 arrival ofOttilie Rhein, the first Bahé‘f in Mauritius, there were more than 100 members of the Faith, and three Local Spiritual Assemblies had formed by 1956. There are now 100 Local Assemblies.
Dr. Walker also gave a public address on “Science and Morality," an occasion opened by Dr. Indraduth Chunnoo, president of the Medical Council of Mauritius.
NAMIBIA
The early history of the Bahé’t’ Faith in Namibia was remembered at a gathering held from 19 [0 11 December 2003 in Windhoek, with satellite celebrations held in the coastal towns of Walvis Bay and Swakopmund. At the main jubilee gathering, local Bahti'l's welcomed Bahé'f guests From Botswana. Germany, Malawi, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Sandra Tjitendero. a member of the local Bahti'l' community and wife of the Speaker of (he Namibian Parliament. read the speech
54 THE BAHA’I’ WORLD 1003—2004
Hi/IfI Andrew Nekum/i arid Grrda A f
at [/12 jubilee
tele/Iratiam in Namibia.
of her husband, Dr. Mose Tjitendero. who was ill on the day he was due to speak but joined the celebrations the Following evening. Dr. Tjitendeto praised the principles of the Bahé’t' Faith and said that they not only give personal inspiration to him but they are also the highest aspiration of the government of Namibia. In particular he praised the “courage and spirit of those early Bahé’fs . . . who. despite the hostile political and social environment that existed at the time, persevered to demonstrate the principle of unity and oneness." Also present at the event were Maina Mkandawire, a member ofthe Continental Board oFCounsellors For Africa who resides in Malawi, and Lally Lucretia Warren, a former member of the Board and now a member of the National Spiritual Assembly of Botswana.
Bahai’!‘ youth from different regions of the country entertained participants with musical and dance performances. The 4o-membet Omaruru Children's Choir, from the Erongo area, sang songs in English and Otijherero. Also performing was a dancing choir from the Kavango region of Namibia.
Hilifa Andreas Nekundi, the first Namibian to become a Bahé‘l" told participants at the jubilee celebrations the dramatic story of how he joined the Faith. Mt. Nekundi (also known as Tate Hilifa) first heard about the Bahé’x’ teachings in 1955 From Ted Catdell of the United Kingdom, who was named a Knight 0f Bahé’u'llzih.
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The two met when Mr. Cardell was looking For someone to translate a Bahé’l’ pamphlet into one of the local languages. Mr. Nekundi. an official police translator. agreed to help. Because of restrictions on interaction between different races in the country. the two men had to drive to an isolated place outside the city in the
evenings, where they worked on the translation over a period ofsix weeks. The Bahé’f writings attracted Mr. Nekundi and inspired him to embrace the Faith for himself.
He later served on the first Local Spiritual Assembly of the Bahé'fs of Windhoek and the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahé'is of Namibia. Today there are 25 Local Spiritual Assemblies, and Bahé’t’s reside in 147 localities in the country.
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SENEGAL Bahd‘is from Burkina Faso, Céte d'Ivoire. Guinea, Mali, Niger, Senegal, and Togo gathered in Dakar, Senegal. to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the arrival of the Bahé'f Faith in French West Africa Guests from other parts oFAfrica, as well as Europe and North and South America, came to the festivities. held between 16 and 28 December 2003.
Some early Bahé‘is in the region gave accounts of the major events involving the Faith during the past 50 years. The first to bring
56 THE BAHA’f WORLD 2003-2004
the Bahé’t’ teachings to the country were brothers Labfb and Habfb Igfahém’, who arrived From Egypt in December 1953 and in April 1954, respectively. Since their arrival the community has expanded to 382 localities, with 54 Local Spiritual Assemblies.
Two distinguished guests at the celebration were Ibrahim Galadina and Moussa Kamaye, members of the Continental Board of Counsellors for Africa. The festivities were marked by joyous ar— tistic performances by a variety of groups. A thattrical troupe from Mali performed dramatic stories about the early believers in Persia. The Bahé’f choirs of Burkina Faso, Dakar, and Kaolack entertained guests with their dances and songs, and a Bahé’f dance group from Dakar, Les Etincelles, performed two weIl-teceived shows.
SEYCHELLES
The golden jubilee celebration held 8 November 2003 in Victoria, Seychelles, garnered extensive coverage on television, on radio, and in the newspapers. The first events were a workshop on virtues education in schools and a presentation of books to the Ministry of Education, sponsored by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahé’fs of Seychelles.
Organizers received an overwhelming response to the work- shop———with more than 100 teachers from public and private schools attending and extensive inquiries from members of the public who wanted to obtain a publication on virtues for their own use.
Sarah ché, the First lady of Seychelles and a member of the NSA, spoke at the event on behalf of the National Spiritual Assembly. The Minister of Education. Danny Faure, also spoke, thanking the Bahé’f community for its gift ofbooks and landing its contributions to education in the island nation.
Munirih Zarqani. the wife of the late Abdul Rahman Zarqani, one of the first Bahé‘fs to pioneer to Seychelles, was in attendance and unveiled a commemorative plaque along with Dr. Badi Abbas, the son of the late Kamil Abbas, who arrived in Seychelles From Iraq in November 1953. Both Kamil Abbas and Mr. Zarqani were named Knights of Bahé'u'lléh.
The celebrations also included artistic performances, with some too performers in a pageant presenting songs, video, dances, and
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of [hp National Spiritual Assembly, Antonia (fapal (right), preterm knob: to Styr/yelle: Minister of ' Ea'uaztion. Danny Hmrn at l/thubilrr gathering.
skits. The pageant generated so much interest that it was staged twice more in the following week. both times to Full houses.
SOUTH AFRICA
Members of the local community of Phokeng organized must of the South African jubilee celebrations, held there From 21 to 22 No— vember 1003. More than 600 Bahé'fs attended the main festivities, and additional gatherings were held in Bloemfontein, Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, Mafikcng, Pretoria. Sabie, and Umtata.
African dancing. music. and dramatic performances. including presentations by the group Beyond Words, gave artistic and emo— tional energy to thc: national jubilee celebrations. At one point. all the members of the National Spiritual Assembly sang to the audi— ence from the stage.
The Queen Mother ofthc Bafokcng tribe. Dr. Semanc B. Molo~ tcgi, a guest of honor at the celebrations, said she was delighted thc jubilee was held in her provincc—the home of the first indigenous South African Buhd'l's—and she praised the Bahé'l' community‘s work for peace and unity. Members oFthe Continental Board ofCounscl- lors Beth Allen and Enus Makhele also gave talks at the gathering.
Ephens Sennc. whose wife was the first South African woman to accept the Faith. spoke about the early history of the Faith in South Africa and how the racial tensions were almost overwhelming. He
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(.0 THE BAHA
1' WORLD 2003—1004
(jammy Duw/‘mg A'ZI/arz/i (/4?) am] Ix'r/rbogi/e I\’/mmm punks 1/)1'1'1‘ gmm/[nmlm fln‘ I/Irir (mirribmium m l/rr' BfllI/i 7 I‘lIII/r in 50ml: xifi‘inz 11/ 1’78
jn/Ii/rz' H’ll’bV/Ilt‘fllL
dcscrihcd the oppressive atmosphere of apartheid, L'xphlining that he and his wife wcrc initially xmrcd [h.n Ihc l’mha 5, because rhcy wcrc whim: pcoplu, had plans In kill (hcm. That I'cnr vanished as they gut m knnw the Bahzi'l's. but still [hwy had m be very carefill nhnul meeting them becausc of their Jppl‘L’hL‘llbiOllS ahnui official survcillam’c.
’l'hc first Local Spiritual Ammhly formul in “)34 in Johannes— burg, and thc election ()Fthc Narinnal Spiritual Afiscmhhz responsible for adminislcring thc whole ufsmnhcrn Afrim. Mllowcd two _\'€.11’S later. [I .l.\\iSIL‘d [hp- formation 0f I4 N.Himm] Spiritual Axscmblics in southern Africa and also three “homeland“ rrgions‘, which were later incorpmmcd again within South Al‘rim. Today Snurh Africa has its mvn Nzniouul Spiritual Assemhh', whik‘h .1150 administers the island ufSi. I h‘lcnn. There arc 38 lnml Spiriuml Aswmhlicx
Hand 0f the Cuus‘c ()fGod \Villiglm Scan, his \vifc Margucritc. and Ihcir wn Michael were tllt' film of. 17 pinnccrs to arrive during the Ten Yunr Plan. Their farm bcmmc :1 plant hn' pcoplc ()i‘dif‘fcrent I'JL‘i‘Jl .md religious backgrounds In dccpcn (heir undcrsmnding of (he [cachings 0f Bahzi'u'll'ih.
WORLDWIDE IUBILEE 61
I’zzrrit'ipzmlx (It l/ll’ mil)jubi/t'rfiwim/ in Zimbabwe,
ZIMBABWE
Jubilee Festivities in Harare. Zimbabwe. featured a variety COHCL‘N following (ht opening ceremony; it was attended by Bahé‘l's from every province of Zimbabwe. Among (he performers was a Bahfi'l’ youth group from Bulawayo, Isirsha Sorhando (Portal of Low). which performed the Ndebele tribe's traditional dance for com- munity celebrations. Other groups included Letters of the Living, a group from Mashonaland Central Province, and thu Chiweshe Bnhzi’f Choir. Children and youth from Harare also sang during the event‘ and a Bahé’i youth from Mnrabclcland, Sithulc Mayo. recited a pocm.
The event. held 12—I4 December 1003, followed smaller regional congresses throughout the year to mark the golden jubilee. Televi« sion. radio‘ and newspapers provided extensive covcragu ofrhc cvcnt,
h,—
62 THE BAHA’I’ WORLD 2003—2004
and the Herald, :1 national newspaper. carried two major articles on the Faith.
In the ofl’icial opening address. the foundcr and acting Vice- ‘ Chancellor 0fthe Women’s University in Africa, Hope Sadza, called the 50!}! anniversary “a remarkable landmark." Dr. Sadza said she cherished the hope that the Bahd'fs would help Zimbabwe to “be— come an abode of peace and tranquility and the envy of the rest of thc world."
Among those in the audience were a former cabinet minister, a representative of the diplomatic corps, lcadcrs from Christian churches, and other distinguished guests. Nathan Shamuyarira, a governmrnt official. addressed the conference and spoke about his high regard for the Faith’s teachings and principles, and his great respect for [he Bahé'is.
Bahé'l's live in more than 1.600 urban and rum] localities in the country. and there are 43 Local Spiritual Assemblies.
Some of the early Bahé'l's of Zimbabwe were also introduced to the participants. They included ‘lzzatu'lln’h Zahrei‘l‘. Douglas | Kadcnhe. Nura Faridian (now Steincr). Enayat and Iran Sohaili, and
f’zlrtiripums gat/n'rt’d (z! the Yukon 341in 'I' ('z’nlr'rfr'zr I/Ie mmivrrmry
c‘c'le/Imliml t/Jtre.
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former member of the Continental Board of Counsellors for Africa Shidan Fat‘he—Aaum and his wife Florence.
Mr. Zahré’i was the first Bahai’i to arrive in the country during the Ten Year Crusade. He was Followed soon after by Claire Gung, Eyneddin and Tahereh Mai, and Kenneth and Roberta Christian. All six received the accolade Knight of Bahfi’u'lléh.
Americas
YUKON
In a four—day gathering from 29 August through 1 September 2003 at the Yukon Bahé'l center on Lake Laberge, Bahé'fs in Canada's Yukon Territory celebrated the arrival of the Knights of Bahé’u’lléh Ted and Joan Anderson. The gathering brought attendees from several regions of Canada and the United States.
Some 100 people attended the celebration, including guest of honor Ted Anderson. He spoke at the celebration about the early history of the Faith in the Yukon and of the so years of progress since then. Other special guests included Auxiliary Board member john Sargent, members of the National Spiritual Assembly, and Slim Lubeseder and Robert Fleming, two of the first three people to become Bahé'l’s in the territory.
Much of the gathering reflected the culture of the First Nations peoples, and Mr. Anderson’s grandson Teddy performed a native hoop dance as part of the entertainment. Other native elements included a healing circle, a pipe ceremony, a sweat. and a sacred campfire that was kept burning throughout the celebrations.
Asia
ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR
Jubilee events held 10—12 November 7.003 in Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar, included a dinner for high—ranking officials. Lti Governor Shri N. N. Jha praised the work being carried out by the Bahé’fs in the territory, which is composed of 540 islands. At a unity concert attended by some 700 people, the ChiefofStaFfof the Andaman and Nicobar Command, Rear Admiral Rakesh Kala, wished the Bahé‘is all the best in their work and activities.
64 THE BAHA’I’ WORLD 2003—2004
jmm/Ied Foza'ar (/effl) prams
a memento of the anniversary rtlrbmtian m 1/)! C hiefof Smfl‘af 1/}? Andaman and Nicobar Cammm'zd. Rear Admiral Ralmll Kala.
Jumshcd Fozdar was one of the guests of honor at both the official dinner and the concert. His father, Dr. K. M. Fozdar. first brought the Bahé'i' Faith to these islands in 1953 and received the title of Knight of Bahé'u’iléh. Although he had to leave the islands after four months, by then Four local people had become Bahé‘i’s. and they continued the development of the community.
The events attracted wide coverage in both English- and Hindi- languagc newspapers. All India Radio repeatedly led its bulletins with news 0fthe jubilee. broadcast quotations from Bahd'u’llzih's writings. and carried live interviews with three Bahzi’is. Local television also covered the unity concert, which featured a program of songs and dances presented by Bahé‘i’ youth and othcr high school students, all on themes of peace, harmony. and unity.
Austmlasia
COOK ISLANDS
More than 100 people attended the juhilee celebrations in Rarotonga, Cook Islands, held From 10 to 15 October 2003. Among the official guests at the jubilee were Queen Elizabeth 11's representative to the Cook Islands. Frederick Goodwin. and his wifc. ina Goodwin; the
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former representative, Sir Apencm Short and Lady Short; and Prime Minister Robert Woonton and his wife. Sue Woonton.
The festivities were also attended by traditional tribal chiefs and a representative from the country‘s Religious Advisory Council. Bahé‘i speakers included Heather Simpson. member of the Continental Board oFCounscllors. and Alan Wilcox, Chairman of‘the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahd'l’s of New Zealand. '
Georgie Skeafl", who has compiled a record of the Cook Islands Bahé’f community, led a tour to hismrical Bahzi'l' landmarks, which included places where the first Bahé‘l‘ pioneers in the country lived.
The Faith came to the islands through the efforts oFEdith Dam ielsen, from thc United States. who arrived in 1953, and Dulcic Dive. from New Zealand via Australia. who arrived in 19s4. Both were named Knights of Bahd'u'llzih. In March 195;. two (look Islanders, Tuainc Karotaua (also known as Peter Titi) and Rima Nicholas. became Bahé'is. A year later, the first Local Spiritual Assembly was formed.
The jubilee events also included a devotional gathering that opened with .1 prayer said in eight languages, and Featured children
Yuur/J rmd rhi/drm relelimte {be gall; anniversary affllt’ Balm '1' Fairly in 1/)? Cook Islamfi.
66 THE BAHA’I’ WORLD 2003—2004
singing and reading from the Babe“ holy writings. Other highlights included a concert with singing. drumming. and dancing, and a visit
to the island ofAitutaki.
KIRIBATI
The President of Kiribati was among the attendees at the anniversary celebrations in Abaiang, Kiribati, held on 4 March 2004, President Anote Tong addressed the gathering, urging, “governments of the land and spiritual governments should work hand in hand for the welfare of the people.”
A report from the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahzi’fs of Kiribati was read to the participants by Atita Atanrerei. The re— port recounted the introduction of Faith by Elena and Roy Femie, who left their home in Panama and arrived to live in the village of Tuarabu, Abaiang, 0n 4 March 1954. Both were named Knights of
Thr President afKirib/zti. Anate Tong (/rfl). being greeted l2}! Iotebatu Tiara, t/Je (,Ymirmzm oft/m Natiamzl Spiritual Aswmbly quI'ribzzti.
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Bahé’u'lljh. In [I]: so years since their arrival, more than 10.000 Inca] people have joined the Faith throughout the country.
Among those participating in the jubilee cclcbralions were Taukoriri Erimi, who became a Bahfi'l' at the time (he Fcrnies were on Abaiang. and Bahd'f teachers in Kiribati, Joe Russcll and john Thurston. Also attending was a representative ofthc National Spiri— tual Assembly (){Ihe Bahé‘l's ofNew Zealand. Michael Fudakowski, who livcd For some 17 years in Kiribati with his wife, Rubin White, a member 0f the Continenml Board of Cnunscllnrs in Australasia. and thuir Family.
Tha- cclchmtion includcd a feast and musical and dramatic per— Formnnccs. Two national newspapers and rwo national radio S(aiiOnS covered the cvcnts.
SOLOMON ISLANDS
Celebrations [0 nmrk the anniversary of the arrival of (hu Faith in the Solomon Islands. held between 2" February and I March 2004 at the national Bnhd'l’ center in Honiara, wcre amended by some $00 peoplc from all over the country. The celebrations welcomed visitors
fim‘ r“: 5:, m1 “3/ Ema
eleb. ‘i J _
. I Mrm/n'ry uf'r/u' I .rmz/ Spiritual Amemlzly q/‘t/M Balm’ '1': of 'Iéwori. A'Iul’im. Emrrn Su/mmm limit, I” r/Jejubilee, wiI/v Cunmr/lmg/zz/d/ Mill» (/qfi)‘
68 THE BAHA’f WORLD 2003—2004
from Australia and Papua New Guinea, and satellite functions were also held in Gizo, Hareapa, and Malaita.
The jubilee‘s guest of honor was Governor-General Sir John Ini Lapli, who commended the Baha’i community for “endlessly and untiringly promoting unity, peace, and the brotherhood of mankind in the country over these so years of [the country’s] life.”
The Deputy Prime Minister also attended the official function, along with other government ministers, ambassadors, and high-com- missioners from all diplomatic missions, a High Court judge, and many prominent members of the community. Among the Baha"! guests was Continental Counsellor jalal Mills, a son ofJohn Mills, who was the first expatriate to become a Baha’i in the country John Mills and his wife were also present at the jubilee celebrations.
The jubilee was covered by both main national newspapers and the national radio, the Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corpora— men
The Faith was introduced to the islands by Baha'i pioneers Alvin and Gertrude Blum From the United States, who arrived on I March 1954 and were subsequently named Knights of Bahé’u’llah. Keithie Blum Saunders, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Blum, who lives in Honiara, gave an account of the lives ofher parents and told of their services in establishing the Baha’i community in the Solomon Islands and in opening various businesses. Gertrude Blum also helped to establish the National Council of Women and the Red Cross Soci— ety, and her husband was a member of the Honiara Town Council, a chairman of the Medical Board, and one of the founders of the Chamber of Commerce and of the Scout Movement.
A photo exhibition featured images of the history of the Bath“ community in the Solomons from the mid—Igsos to the present day, with photographs of some of the early Baha’l’s, including the first Solomon Islander to accept the Faith, Billy Gina, and a traditional chieffrom the Are Are region ofMalaita, Hamue] Hoahania, whose conversion was the start of large—scale enrolment in the Bethe“ Faith by residents of Malaita.
TONGA
Highlights of the jubilee celebrations in Nuku’alofa, Tonga, held from 24 to 28 January 2004, included a welcoming ball with 600
WORLDWIDE JUBIIJZE 69
TarIg/m 3:1in ’1': nutside t/u’ ruyzzl palm? qfi‘z’r II): p/zmdr.
guests. a morning devotional gathering attended by 500. and a luncheon attendcd by some 800 guests, including a member of the royal Family. Bahé’l’s From various Tongan island groups, such as Eua. Haapai, and Vavau, gathered fur the jubilee. Others Came from Australia. Hawaii. the Marshall Islands, New Zealand, Samoa, and the continental United States.
Crown Prince Tupoutu'a, the first son of King 'lhufh'ahau Tupou Iv, welcomed a parade of more than 400 Bahé’is who arrived at the royal palace after setting ofl‘fmm the newly renovated national Bahé‘l’ center. They wore traditional Tongan woven clothing and carried Hugs and banners proclaiming such principles 0f the Bahzi'l' Faith as the oneness of religion and the unity of mankind.
A local Bahé’l’ dance troupe presented a traditional "Ibngan dance. called Lakalaka, and Native American artist Kevin Lockc, represent— ing the Bahd'l’s of the United States at the jubilee. performed a hoop
dance that was broadcast on the national news.
, ——f_
70 THE BAHA’I’ WORLD 2003—2004
Babtz’ '1’: from Vanuatu parading through the 5mm afPort Vila m pxzrt of their anniutrxmy events.
Following royal protocols, traditional orators Masila and Leka— both of them Bahé’is~spoke on behalf of the Bahé‘i community and expressed their appreciation to the royal family. The Prince’s orator, Vakalahi, assured the Bahé’fs that the Faith would continue to be under the blessing of the royal family and noted the many contributions of the Bahzi’l' community to Tonga.
Among the special guests was Stanley Bolton, who arrived from Australia as the first Bahé’l’ in the country on 25 January 1954, for which he received the accolade Knight of Bahzi‘u'lléh, as did two oth— er pioneering Bahé’i's: Dudley Moore Blakely and his wife Elsa (Judy) Blakely, who arrived from the United States on 12 July 1954‘
The Honorable Ma’atu, the second son ofthe King, was the guest of honor at a jubilee luncheon. Other guests were retired Speaker of the Parliament, Honi Fusitu‘a, accompanied by his daughter; Donald Blanks, a member of the Continental Board of Counsellors for Australasia; representatives of the National Spiritual Assemblies of Australia, Hawaii, New Zealand, and Samoa; and many govern— ment officials, community leaders, and members of the Christian community of Tonga.
The jubilee was an occasion of unprecedented media coverage of the Bahei’i Faith in Tonga, with the national TV channel and radio
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covering three nights of the jubilee. Reporters From two newspapers also covered the events.
The evening program featured a choir competition that included groups from Australia, New Zealand, and Tonga, with songs based on the Bath“ sacred writings. The five-day jubilee celebrations ended with a picnic and a dance that saw participants From different islands dressed in traditional garb. '
VAN UATU
On the 50th anniversary of the arrival of the Bath?“ Faith in Vanuatu. a parade set out from Bahé’l Street and moved through the center of Port Vila, the capital city. led by traditional dancers from the island of Tongan. Members of local Bahé’i communities, wearing outfits in difierent floral prints, Followed them, singing and waving to the crowd under banners proclaiming principles of their Faith such as "the oneness of humanity."
lntcrsperscd with the marchers were colorful floats, including a replica of the SS Caledonim, the ship on which Bertha Dobbins traveled to Port Vila in 1953. Mrs. Dobbins was the first to bring the Bahé’f Faith to what was then known as New Hebrides.
In the time since her arrival, the Bahé'r' community of Vanuatu has been established in 199 localities throughout this archipelago of some 80 islands, with a National Spiritual Assembly and 44 Local Spiritual Assemblies.
Before a soo—strong audience that included many government and community leaders, the chairman of the National Council of Chiefs, Chief Paul Tahi, welcomed the parade and congratulated the Bahé’fs on the anniversary, landing the community’s contribu— tions not only to the unity of the country. but also to business and health.
At a public festival on Port Vila’s tropical seafront, other lenders to speak about the Faith included Vanuatu’s Director-General of Educa- tion, Abel Nako, and the Mayor of Port Vila, Patrick Crowby.
Representatives came from Bahé’l communities in French Polynesia, New Caledonia, and the Solomons. Among the many international guests attending the jubilee were a representative of the National Spiritual Assembly ofAustralia, Kath I’odger, and a member of the Continental Board of Counsellors, Stephen Hall.
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72 THE BAHA’f WORLD 2003—2004
A Bahé’i choir and dance groups from the Vanuatu island of Efate, and from New Caledonia and French Polynesia, provided entertainment for the event, which included a full-day public concert of song and dance staged on the city’s seafront.
Bahai'f communities in Ambae, Malakula, Pentecost, and Tanna held additional 10ml jubilee festivities.
Europe
BALEARIC ISLANDS
Celebrations for the golden jubilee of the Faith in the Balearic Islands took place in Calvia, Mallorca, and Soller from 21 to 23 November 2003. Many artists, including the local Bahé’f choir and the San Jaime Choir, performed at the events. Regional dances and performances on violin and piano were also part of the entertainment.
Guests included Emilio Egea, a member of the Continental Boardbeounsellors, and members of the National Spiritual Assem- bly of the Bahé‘is of Spain, along with representatives of Buddhist, Catholic, jewish, and Muslim organizations. who participated with the Bahfi’l's in a panel discussion on religious dialogue, which was covered by the local media.
Several high-ranking officials also attended the celebrations, including the Director of the Human Rights for Children Oflice, a UNESCO representative, and senior members of the Education Coun— cil, who praised the Bahé'i community’s work for social welfare.
Charles Monroe 1035 of the United States, one of the first to bring the Faith to the islands, was present at the jubilee. He was named a Knight of Bahé’u'lléh, as was Virginia Orbison of the United States, who arrived in August 1953 as the first Bahé’f in the Balearics. Jean and Tove Deleuran from Denmark, who followed soon after, were also named Knights.
CANARY ISLANDS
Songs originating in the Canary Islands were a highlight of the Festivities held in the capital, Las Palmas, from 10 to 12 October 2003. Guests from Austria. Morocco, Senegal, and Spain joined local Bahai’fs to watch a video documentary about the so years of Bahé’i activity in the islands, while another film, produced by local youth,
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depicted the significant role young people played in the history of the Bahzi'l’ community.
Mnhnaz Nekoudin, in a speech at the celebration. paid tribute to the early Bahé'f pioneers. many ofwhom were present at the jubilee and received roses as a gesture of gratitude.
The Faith first came to the Canary Islands in October 1953 when George and Peggy True and their son Barry arrived from the United States. Mr. and Mrs. True were both named Knights of Bahé'u'lléh. Two other Bahé’r's were named Knights for their contributions to the early community: Gertrude Eisenberg of the United States and Shoghi Rjaz Rouhani, a Bahé‘l' from Egypt. Both settled on the island of Grand Canary,
Mr. Rouhani, who was present at the jubilee. talked about the significance of the historic events so years ago. Barry True addressed the gathering and ofTercd an affectionate reminiscence of his parents. Also contributing to the festivities were Emilio Egea and Suhrab Youssefian, members of‘thc Continental Board of Counsellors.
Rznicipmm (1t 1/}: relebmtiau of”)? 501/: anilim’rmry oft/Jr Bu/M’ '1' HIM} in 1/7: Canary Islandtt
74 THE BAHA'I’ WORLD 2003-2004
ibmli in Sirily galherrdfbr 1/.Ir cr/ebmlian (ff (/1? on/I mmiwrsrujy aft/Ie lfa/m' '1' Faith 071 ll)? iskmtl.
In conjunction with the jubilee, (hc Bahfi’fs organized an inter- faith panel discussion, which was heid m the Writers‘ Guild of Las Palmas, and brought together members ofthe Buddhist. Catholic, and Juwish communities, :15 well as (he consuls representing Ireland and lmiy. The jubilee events were covered in two regional newspapers and on tclcvision.
SICILY
From 19 [0 21 September 2003. the Bahi'l’s of Sicily celebrated the golden jubilee ofthe arrival ofthc Baha‘i Faith on their island. Three hundred guests from 15 countries attended Ihc celebrations held in Campofclice di Roccella ncar Palermo.
(iucsrs ofhonor included former member ufthc Universal House ()l‘ijusticc ‘Ah’ Nakhjavzinl' and his wife. Vinlerre. The celebration was an occasion to recall how [hc community has grown over the wars.
5..
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The Baha’i Faith first arrived on the staunchly Catholic island in 1953, borne by Emma Rice, who left behind a comfortable fam— ily estate in the United States to settle there. She was followed a week later by Stanley and Florence Bagley and their three teenaged children, also from the US.
Mrs. Rice and the members of the Bagley family were all desig- nated Knights of Baha’u'llah. Through the activities of the Baha'i pioneers and other arrivals, and with visits by Hand of the Cause of God Ugo Giachery, the Faith grew. The first Local Spiritual As— sembly formed in 1957.
At the jubilee, Italian Baha’i Mario Piarulli shared memories of Dr. Giachery, who was born in Palermo. Ml'. Piarulli has recently finished writing a book, Gli Ambasciatori di Bahd'u’l/d}: (The Am— baxrador: afBabd'u'th), which he dedicated to the memory of Dr. Giachery.
Another author present was Rino Cardone, who launched his recently published history of the Sicilian Baha‘i community, La Sicilia da/le Infinite Perle (The Countless Pearl: afSitily).
A highlight of the jubilee was a teleconference between the par— ticipants and Hand of the Cause of God ‘Ali-Muhammad Varqé in Haifa, Israel. Dr. Varqa. who has been a regular visitor to Sicily, also sent a special letter for the occasion, which read in part: “Following 50 years of hard effort and activities, you have been successful in cre- ating a community which could be presented as a model of integrity, harmony, and fellowship that generates the sweet fragrance of divine love in all parts of the islands of the Mediterranean Sea."
N OTES
‘ Shoghi EfTL-ndi, Messages to II): Babd ‘1' World 1950—1957 (Wilmette, IL: Baha’I Publishing Trust. 199;), pp. 4!, 42.
1 A summary of these goals can be found in TI): Bd/Jd’l War“, vol. XII
(Haifa: Baha’i World Centre, 1956), pp. 256-74, and in Shoghi EtTendi's
cable announcing the launch of the plan. in Menage: :0 tbs Bahd'! World.
PP- 40—45-
This system ofplans for the development of the Baha'i community contin—
ues still today, under the direction of the Universal House ofjustice. The
current Five Year Plan was launched in 2001.
‘ Mwages m the Baht! 'I World. p. 152.
76 THE muff WORLD 2003—2004
’ Moreinfonnadonabouxnnnyofthmjubilcecelcbndommbcfoundon the Web site ofthe Bah!“ Wodd News Servioc. hnpdlncwsbabaimgl. For nmmptehmdwlistofwunuiuandmfimfiesopenedduflngxsg—sfisx Glenn chxon with Wandi Mom. A Bait Babl'! Chronology (Oxford: George Ronald. 1996), pp. 191—320.