Bahá’í World/Volume 33/Worldwide Jubilee

The Bahá’í World
Volume 33

Worldwide Jubilee

50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE OPENING OF THE TEN YEAR CRUSADE

In 2004—2005, many Babd’z’ communities celebrated their golden jubilee: and remembered the beginning ofan ambitious globalplzm fbr the expansion of the Balm’ ’1' Faith.

a decade—long plan to spread the Faith around the world, which

he described as an “historic, spiritual venture, at once arduous, audacious, challenging, unprecedented in scope and Character in the entire field of Bahé’i' history.”1 Known as the Ten Year Crusade, the plan called upon Bahé’i's to travel to those nations and territories that had not yet been “opened” to the Faith. Individuals arose to serve with selﬂess devotion, enduring many hardships and winning many victories for their beloved Cause.

As Bahé’i’s journeyed to the far reaches of the globe in order to share Bahé’u’lléh’s unifying message and assist in the development of their new communities, this decade proved to be a dynamic pe— riod for the expansion of the Faith. These steadfast volunteers were responsible, in just 10 years, for increasing the number of National Spiritual Assemblies around the world from 12 to 56. Shoghi Effendi bestowed the accolade “Knight of Bahé’u’lléh”upon the individuals who first established the Faith in these virgin territories.

Among the many countries settled by Bahé’r’s in 1954—1955 were Samoa and the Solomon Islands in the Pacific, Botswana and

In 1953 Shoghi Effendi, the Guardian of the Bahé’l' Faith, initiated

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Burundi in Africa, and Monaco in Europe. The 50th anniversary festivities that were commemorated this year gave believers an op— portunity to come together in celebration and to reﬂect on the history and progress of the Faith in their countries. The following presents highlights from the golden jubilees celebrated around the globe during 2004—2005.2

Africa

BOTSWANA

The minister oflocal government of Botswana, Dr. Margaret Nasha, commended the activities of the Baha’i community and its efforts to “further the development of Botswana along moral and ethical lines” when she addressed its golden jubilee held 10 to 12 December 2004. The event brought together 370 participants from Australia, Canada, Chile, India, and the United States, as well as many nearby African countries.

Half a century ago, however, attempts to carry on Baha’i activi— ties based on the Faith’s fundamental principle of the Oneness of mankind received no such official endorsement. Until independence in 1966, Botswana, then known as the Bechuanaland Protectorate, was administered from Mafikeng in apartheid South Africa. As such, Mafikeng was subject to strictly imposed conditions of racial segregation, and the Bahé’is of Botswana had to meet under the cover of darkness.

At the jubilee, Lally Lucretia Warren described her childhood in apartheid-era Bechuanaland and her introduction to the Faith by the Robarts family. Baha’i pioneers from Canada, John and Audrey Robarts, along with their son Patrick and daughter Nina, brought the Faith to Bechuanaland in 1954. Mr. and Mrs. Robarts and their son each received the accolade Knight of Baha’u’llah, and Mr. Robarts was later named a Hand of the Cause of God.

Mrs. Warren was IO years old when the Robarts family would come to her house for meetings with her parents, James and Stella Moncho, the first local couple to become Baha’is. “They could only do this at night, and as they came towards the house they would switch their [car] lights on and off to say, ‘13 it OK, is it safe, can we come?”’ said Mrs. Warren, who served as a member of the Conti-

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Botswana government minister Dr. Margaret Nm/m (center) arrivesfir t/vejuéilee celebrations with the vice-c/Mirman oft/ae National Spiritual Axsembly 0ft/Je Ba/m’ ’z’s ofBotswana, Sheila Baronng' ([539), and Assembly member Esther Monday.

nental Board of Counsellors in Africa from 1985 to 2000. “There was no electricity in the black area during those days so my mother would take a lantern and stick it out through the window and wave it to say, ‘0K, it’s safe for you to come.”

Nina Robatts, who was a teenager at the time, told the jubilee participants about the drama of those nights. “When we saw the lantern, that was the most glorious sight for us. It meant we were going to see our African friends that night,” said Ms. Robatts, who now lives in Canada.

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A message written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice to the jubilee participants said that “this historic event, at which the shining spirit and soul—stirring exploits of the early believers will be recalled, will surely inspire the friends to arise with renewed dedica— tion to bring the healing Message of Baha’u’llah to the indigenous peoples of your beloved country.”

Among the other “soul—stirring exploits” described at the jubilee was the way Mr. and Mrs. Robarts were able to present the Faith to local people. They befriended Moditi Molerna, a highly respected medical doctor and the only black man who was permitted to as- sociate with whites. Dr. Molema invited his friends and family to hear about the Baha’i Faith, and he gave the Robarts family letters of introduction to the dikgosz' (traditional chiefs) of the Bechuanaland Protectorate.

Dr. Molema accepted the Faith, but his enrolment was not made public because of likely harassment due to his previous high-profile political involvement. In 1955 his relative, Stanlake Kukama, became the first native Tswana of Bechuanaland to become a publicly de— clared Baha’i.

Mr. Kukama, who attended the jubilee celebrations, said he had been an anti-apartheid activist and was a member of the South African political party, the African National Congress. He said he had detested white people because of their attitude towards Africans, but that changed when he heard about the Baha’i Faith from the Robarts family. “In 1955 I heard of the Baha’i Faith,” Mr. Kukama said, “and [found] the principles of the Faith were the solution to [achieve] peace and harmony for mankind.”

The African National Congress tried to woo back Mr. Kukama for many years without success. The police kept him under surveil— lance even after he became a Baha’i because they did not believe that he had given up partisan politics. Mr. Kukama later served for many years as a member of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of Bophuthatswana and of South Africa.

Other early Baha’i’s present at the jubilee celebrations included Goitsemodimo Bolokang, Gaolebale Komanyane, Mothusiotsile Matabane, Esther Moncho (a member of the first National Spiritual Assembly), and Michael Nthau.

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The participants made fond mention of others who had con— tributed significantly to the Botswana Baha’i community but were unable to attend the jubilee, such as former member of the Con— tinental Board of Counsellors Shidan Fat’he—Aazam, and a Baha’i from the United States, Jeff Gruber, who organized the translation of many of the Baha’i writings into the local language of Setswana and who personally translated Baha’i scripture into several Bushman languages.

At the jubilee celebration, member of the Continental Board of Counsellors Enos Makhele spoke about the significance of the Baha’i history in Botswana and the achievements and future plans of the community. There are 30 Local Spiritual Assemblies in the country, and Baha’i’s can be found in several hundred Villages and other localities.

Baha’i choirs from the villages of Oodi and Tlokweng, as well as the National Jubilee Choir and the Swaziland Baha’i youth choir provided uplifting entertainment, and a dramatic presentation by a group of Baha’i youth portrayed traditional and modern aspects of cultural life in Botswana.

BURUNDI

In a country that has endured many years of harrowing conﬂicts, the golden jubilee of the establishment of the Faith in Burundi was a time to reﬂect on principles of unity and peace.

The country has suffered terribly from the sustained Violence that erupted in 1993. Baha’i’s have been among those killed during the fighting, and many others have ﬂed to neighboring countries. The community has also suffered in other ways, experiencing the destruction of several regional Baha’i centers. Despite the difficul- ties, the Bahé’i’s of Burundi have opened their activities to the wider public, providing participants With spiritual solace, a respite from their sorrows, and a vision of a united, peaceful future.

In a message to the Baha’is of Burundi on the occasion of the jubilee, the Universal House ofJustice expressed its wish that “this historic gathering may be a source of inspiration to the friends as they endeavor to further advance the Cause of God in Burundi.”

Other congratulatory messages arrived from a former member of the Universal House of Justice, Mr. ‘Ali’ Na_khjavan1', and his

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A dance troupe t/mtpeiformm’ at t/aejubilee celeémtiom in Burundi in August, 2004.

Wife, Violette, and from the Continental Board of Counsellors in Africa.

During the celebrations, held at the national Bahé’l’ center in Nyakabiga, Bujumbura, from 27 to 28 August 2004, a member of the Continental Board of Counsellors in Africa, Ahmad Parsa, spoke about the important role the Burundi Bahei’l’ community has played in this region. “Despite all the difficulties in Burundi, the Bahé’l’s could keep their ideals and continue working for all the people of the country without any distinction,” Mr. Parsa said.

Mr. Parsa said many residents of Burundi who were originally from Rwanda and the Congo region became Bahé’r’s in Burundi and then returned to their homelands Where they have contributed to the Bahé’r’ communities and the wider society there.

The jubilee gathering was also a time to hear about the history of the Faith in the country.

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The Faith came to Burundi in 1953 when Mary and Reginald (Rex) Collison from the United States and Dunduzu Chisiza, a young Baha’i from Malawi (then Nyasaland), arrived in Ruanda— Urundi (now the independent countries of Rwanda and Burundi).

The Collisons, a retired couple, had previously rendered many services in their Baha’i community in New York, through extensive travels in the United States, and in Uganda.

Mr. Chisiza was their interpreter in Ruanda—Urundi. Govern- ment policies required the Collisons and Mt. Chisiza to leave the country some 18 months after their arrival, but by the time of their departure, there were about 20 Baha’is in the country. The first person to accept the Baha’i teachings there was Selemani Bin Kim— bulu, of Congolese origin from Bukavu. For establishing the Baha’i community in Ruanda—Urundi, Shoghi Effendi named Mr. and Mrs. Collison and Mr. Chisiza Knights of Bahé’u’llah.

At the jubilee celebrations, one of the first Baha’is of Burundi, Fidele Simwakira, age 75, spoke about his recollections of the early days of the Faith in the country. Jubilee participants also enjoyed artistic presentations, including poetry and traditional dances per— formed by a group from Kinama.

Mr. Bin Kimbulu, the country’s first Baha’i, who now lives in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, was unable to attend the festivities because the border was closed. However, his grandson, Syl— vestre Kitenge, was present as a member of the choir that entertained jubilee participants. Others who addressed the jubilee gathering about the history of the community were Zuruzutu Ezekiel, Barbara and David Sunstrum, and Jean Baptiste Habimana.

CAPE VERDE

In January 1954 Howard and JoAnne Menking decided to leave their home in the United States to introduce the Baha’i Faith to Cape Verde, then a poverty—stricken Portuguese colony. The Menkings left Cape Verde in 1959 after the local Baha’i community was established. A half—century later, in November 2004, Mr. Menking returned for the jubilee celebrations of that community, accompanied by his daughter and grandson.

Mr. Menking, now 79, told participants at the jubilee festivities held on 18 November 2004 about the Challenging conditions and

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Some of the particzpants at t/aejubilee celebrations of the Cape Verde islands.

slow progress of the Faith on the islands in 1954. In fact, so barren were the results of the Menkings’ initial efforts to interest local people in the Baha’i Faith that Mr. Menking wrote to Shoghi Effendi and asked about the Wisdom of staying there when the needs of the Bahé’l’s were so urgent on the mainland of Africa. Shoghi Effendi replied that Victories in a difficult post were more meritorious than those easily won, and from that point onward the fortunes of the Faith in Cape Verde improved.

The first local person to become a Baha’i was a good friend of Howard Menking, named Frutuoso (meaning “fruitful”). Others soon followed him into the Faith, including Claremundo (a name meaning “the light of the world”), Inacio Barbosa Amado, Avalino Barros, Octavio Brito, and Entonio Leon. By April 1956 there were enough Baha’is in Praia to form the first Local Spiritual Assembly. Three years later the Menkings returned to the United States, hav- ing each been awarded the distinction Knight of Baha’u’lla’h for their efforts.

At the jubilee festivities the Chairman of the Local Spiritual As— sembly of Praia, Manuel Jesus Moreno, spoke about the history of the

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Faith in Cape Verde. Cristina Menking addressed the participants on her Baha’l’ experiences in Cape Verde and on the role ofwomen and the importance of family life, and two members of the Continental Board of Counsellors also spoke to the gathering.

Also present were representatives of the Baha’i community of

Portugal, Aminullah Shahidian and Varqa Carlos Jalali. Dr. Jalali addressed the gathering about the aims and purposes of the Baha’i Faith.

A photographic exhibition included photographs of the first Baha’i institutions in Cape Verde, the early Baha’is, distinguished Baha’i visitors to the country, and current activities of the Baha’f community.

The National Radio of Cape Verde and Croule FM, a private radio station, broadcast coverage of the jubilee. Three newspapers of

Cape Verde, Expresso dds [[bax, Horizonte, and A Semana, published

articles about the celebrations.

EQUATORIAL GUINEA

When Elise Lynelle arrived in this West African country in 1954 to introduce the teachings of the Baha’i Faith, she faced two major obstacles. The first was a restriction on free association between whites and blacks. The second was that she was allowed only a one— month visa, barely enough time to get settled, let alone explain the teachings of a world religion.

Nevertheless, she was able to help establish the Faith in this country, then known as Spanish Guinea, and was named a Knight of Baha’u’lléh for her efforts. Fifty years later, she described those early days to participants in the jubilee celebrations, which the Baha’i community held here from 20 to 21 August 2004.

A young journalist from the United States, Ms. Lynelle (then Elise Schreiber) arrived in Bata, Spanish Guinea, on 17 May 1954. While in Bata, Ms. Lynelle was unable to make contact with black Africans because of restrictions on association between the races, and any new religion was frowned upon. However, a Spaniard, Jose’ Ramos Espinosa, accepted the Faith.

With Mr. Espinosa’s help, Ms. Lynelle joined a group of sur— veyors who were traveling in the colony looking for places to build lighthouses. In June 1954, she sailed with them to the island of Co—

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Ba/m’ ’1’: in 022mg, Equatorial Guinea.

risco, where she met the elderly king of the island, Santiago Uganda Mdelo and his nephew, Edward Robinson, both of whom readily accepted the Baha’i teachings. King Uganda told Ms. Lynelle that he had had a premonition about someone who would come to him with a message.

Returning to the country for the first time in so years, Ms. Lynelle said she was impressed by the Changes that had taken place in Equatorial Guinea and the progress of the Baha’i community, which now has four Local Spiritual Assemblies.

Other speakers at the jubilee festivities to describe the early days were Alberto Ntutumu, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of Equatorial Guinea, and Miguel Bielo, a member of the Auxiliary Board. Also present was José Maria Fierro Cueto (also known as Dr. Pepe), who came from Mexico to Equatorial Guinea in the 19805 to assist the Baha’i community. Some prominent officials attended the celebrations, including the Health Minister, Dr. Justino Obama Nve.

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A slide presentation about the history of the Faith paid tribute to other early members of the community, among them Joseph Enonguene and Johanna Ngompex, who came from Cameroon in the 19603. Theatrical and musical presentations entertained the participants, a highlight being traditional dances by members of the biggest tribe of Equatorial Guinea, the Fang.

The national television channel, RTV (Radio Television Malabo), covered the event. A monthly magazine, La Gdzmz, later published an article about the celebrations.

GHANA

“Spiritual Solutions for Social and Economic Problems” was the theme of the celebrations held from 27 to 29 August 2004 to com— memorate the establishment of the Faith in Ghana 50 years ago. “I sincerely believe that the theme chosen for this celebration is to engender our whole society to reﬂect on the principle that human nature is fundamentally spiritual,” Kwaku Agyeman Manu, the Deputy Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, told partici— pants at the Baha’i’ jubilee celebration. “I urge the rest of us who are non—Baha’l’s to exhibit some of the good principles of religious humility, to examine the noble principles of the Baha’i teachings,” he said.

During the past 50 years, the Baha’is of Ghana have been active in social and economic development programs. A recent example is the work of the Olinga Foundation for Human Development, founded in 1999, which has been involved in promoting literacy and moral education classes in primary and junior secondary schools in rural areas of Ghana. In the Western region of the country, for example, more than 5,000 children in 150 schools participate in such classes with the help of the foundation.

Part of the jubilee was the awarding of prizes in a student es- say competition organized by the Baha’i community. Students throughout Ghana were asked to discuss four principles shared by at least four of the world’s main religions. On behalf of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahé’i’s of Ghana, Thelma Khelgati, a former member of the Continental Board of Counsellors for Africa, congratulated the winners and handed out the prizes.

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Two 0fthe Bahd’z’s who introduced the Faith to Ghana, David Tanyi

(standing) and Benedict Ehalla ([efi), with Samuel IVji/ez', one 0fthose who tank the Faith to Cameroon, I954.

A special feature of the celebrations was the launching of the book titled Conquering the Hearts: A Briesz'story of the Baha’ ’1’ Faith in Ghana 1951—1995. Introducing the book, Diana Heymann-Adu, the managing director of Meridian FM radio station, said that “the

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Baha’i Faith has much appeal and relevance to the modern world” and that the book, which tells about the lives of the early Bahé’r’s in Ghana, will offer insights to future generations.

The Baha’i teachings were first brought to Ghana (then under British rule and called the Gold Coast) in 1951 when Ethel Robertson Stephens, an African-American Baha’i from Virginia, came to Accra. Mrs. Stephens stayed one year in the Gold Coast. In the early 19505 Baha’i pioneers established Baha’i communities in the Northern Territories, Ashanti Protectorate, and British Togoland. Those three regions, together with the Gold Coast, became the independent na— tion of Ghana in 1957.

Among the first Baha’is in those three regions were three young Baha’is from Cameroon, Benedict Eballa (Ashanti Protectorate), Edward Tabe (British Togoland), and Martin Manga (Northern Territories). Other pioneers were Julius Edwards, a Jamaican from Liberia (Northern Territories), and the first Baha’i from the Gold Coast, Albert Buapiah (British Togoland). For their services in es— tablishing Baha’i communities in these regions the five men later received the accolade Knight of Bahé’u’lléh.

Another Cameroonian Baha’i who assisted the Baha’i com- munity in Ghana in the early days was David Tanyi. In 1954, Mr. Tanyi was named a Knight of Baha’u’llah for introducing the Baha’i Faith to Togo (then French Togoland). In 1957, he moved to Tamale (Northern Territories), and with his wife, Esther, and their children, remained in Ghana for more than three decades. Today the Baha’i community has 63 Local Spiritual Assemblies.

During the three days of festivities, participants enjoyed a variety

’3’

of artistic performances, including presentations by the local Baha 1 youth choir, Flight 009, and songs and dances by the Bawdie Baha’i youth group. Other musical performers included George Olinga of Uganda and Ekua Mensah from the United States. Some of the first believers, among them Blanche Fredua—Agyemang, Emmanuel Budu, Ernest Bentsil, and Prince Abaidoo, gave accounts of the early years of the Faith in Ghana. After the celebrations, participants said prayers at the gravesites of two of the early believers, Joseph Musah

and Beattie Casely-Hayford.

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GAMBIA

The Baha’r’ community of Gambia celebrated its golden jubilee from 24 to 26 December 2004. The festivities coincided with the opening of a new national Baha’i center in the coastal town of Bakau, about IO kilometers from the capital.

Among the 200 people attending the opening and dedication ceremony of the national center, held on 24 December 2004, were representatives of the Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, and Muslim communities. Also present were the nation’s solicitor-general, Ray— mond Sock; the headman (Alkalo) of Bakau, Alhaji Luntung Jaiteh; a representative of the local mayor of Kanifing municipality; and other dignitaries.

Baha’i participants came from remote areas of Gambia, from Guinea, Guinea—Bissau, Mali, Mauritania, and Senegal, and other countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America.

An uplifting performance by the Dakar Baha’i choir opened the dedication ceremony, followed by the reading of messages from the National Spiritual Assembly and other Baha’i institutions around the world. Precious gifts from the beleaguered Baha’i community in Iran were presented and gratefully received.

The keynote speaker was Wendi Momen, a member of the Na- tional Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’l’s of the United Kingdom, who first went to Gambia in 1976 as a doctoral researcher. The ceremony continued with a performance by Les Erincelles, a Baha’i dance troupe from Dakar, displays of books and historical photographs, and a celebratory dinner.

The center will provide a venue for administrative and devotional meetings, study circles, children’s classes, and social and economic de- velopment programs such as free computer lessons for the public.

The program for the jubilee celebrations, which began on 25 December 2004, opened with performances on the baldfon (African xylophone). The history of the Faith in Gambia was told in both the Wolof and English languages, followed by a performance by the Baha’i choir, the Nightingales of Gambia.

The story of the introduction of the Baha’i Faith to Gambia by Fariborz Ruzbehyan was told by his grandson, Iraj Sarvian, who came from the United States for the jubilee celebrations.

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In Gambia in 1971, the Hand oft/ae Cause of God Hmatu’l—Ba/m’ Rzilaz’yyi/a ﬂdnum (t/Jz'm'fi'om 1%), actively assisted in the election afvillage Spiritual Assemblies. 5/96 is pictured here at the National Convention of Upper West Afiiaz.

Mr. Ruzbehyan arrived in Gambia on 19 February 1954 and was subsequently named a Knight of Bahé’u’lléh. Shortly after his arrival, suffering greatly from asthma and fever, Mr. Ruzbehyan had to be admitted to a hospital. His seeming misfortune turned into delight When he was able to introduce the Faith to a fellow patient, Nelson Ethan Thomas, who soon became the first indigenous Bahé’l’.

During his two years in Gambia, Mr. Ruzbehyan saw 300 people accept the Bahé’l’ teachings and helped with the elections ofsix Local Spiritual Assemblies. He returned brieﬂy in 1957 and purchased a house in Serkeunda to serve as a Bahé’i’ center.

Other historical accounts at the festivities came from Bahé’l’s who had left other countries to settle in Gambia and from Bahé’l’s who had visited as traveling teachers of the Faith.

They recalled the dedicated service of many Bahé’l’s who had since died, and recounted anecdotes of their experiences. Among the Bahé’is recalled with great affection was a dedicated pioneer from Ghana, Yaw Asare, who served on the National Spiritual Assembly and passed away in a tragic accident in 1992. The first Gambian

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A traditional dancefiom Gatenga was one of the presentations t/mt promptedjoyous participant: in tbejubz'leeféstz'vz'tz'es ofﬂje Rwandan 34/74 2 community to join the peifirmers on the stage.

III

woman to be elected to the National Spiritual Assembly, Ramatoulie Dem, was warmly remembered by her granddaughter.

RWANDA

The jubilee festivities in Rwanda were a major victory in the history of the Baha’i community in that country, a speaker told the partici— pants at the celebrations. Uzziel Mihembezo, one of the early Baha’l’s owaanda, said that the event was proof that despite the genocide in 1994, the Baha’i community continues to grow. Many Bahé’is were among the 800,000 to perish during the violence, and many others ﬂed the country. However, the community is thriving, with 28 Local Spiritual Assemblies and Baha’l’s living in 106 localities.

In a congratulatory message to the Rwandan Baha’l’s 0n the 0c— casion 0f the 50th anniversary celebrations, the Universal House of Justice wrote: “We cannot help but marvel at the progress the Cause of God has made in that land and express our humble gratitude to Bahé’u’llah for bestowing His healing Message upon the sorely tried peoples of that country.”

The official guest speaker at the festivities, Ndigabo Francois, a government official of Nyagisagata, praised the Baha’l’ community

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for its efforts to build unity and understanding between Rwandans of different ethnic backgrounds. Those efforts include a statement in March 2000 by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’l’s of Rwanda to the National Commission for Unity and Reconciliation in which the Assembly urged that consideration be given to making the principle of the oneness of humanity the basis for reconciliation in the country.

The jubilee celebrations began on 11 December 2004 in Kigali and continued the following day in the Village of Nyagisagara, 100 kilometers from the capital city. The 450 participants at the jubilee celebrations came from different regions of Rwanda, as well as from Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Zimbabwe. Entertainment included Baha’i choirs and dance troupes from Cy- angugu, Gatenga, Goma, and Kigali that performed traditional and modern dances.

Among those recounting stories to the gathering about the early days of the Baha’i community were Kitoko Mangili, now the sec- retary of the National Spiritual Assembly, Uzziel Mihembezo, and Isaac Ngwijebose.

The message of the Baha’i Faith was introduced to Rwanda (for— merly part of Ruanda—Utundi) in 1953 by Mary and Reginald (Rex) Collison, a retired couple from the United States, and Dunduzu Chisiza, a young Baha’i from Malawi (then Nyasaland), all ofwhom were designated Knights of Baha’u’llah. Other members of the early Rwandan Baha’i community included the late Alphonse Semanyenzi and a medical doctor, Dr. Ataollah Taaid, who came with his wife, Zahereh, to assist in the development of the Baha’i community.

After becoming a Babe“, Mr. Semanyenzi worked at Dr. Taaid’s clinic in Kigali. In 1972, he was elected to the first National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahé’l’s of Rwanda. He also served as an interpreter during the visits in 1972 and 1973 by ‘Amatu’l-Baha Rfihx’yyih @a- num, a Hand of the Cause of God.

Journalists from eight newspapers and magazines and from the Rwanda National Radio and Radio Flash FM covered the event. The three main newspapers in the country, one in French, one in English, and one in Kinyarwanda, published articles about the jubilee.

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SWAZILAND

Members of the royal family and other dignitaries praised the Baha’i community at celebrations marking the 50th jubilee of the Baha’i Faith in Swaziland. “The contribution of the Baha’i Faith in Swaziland is highly commendable,” said Zephania Hlatjwako, the principal secretary to Prince Gabheni, the Minister of Home Af— fairs. Mr. Hlatjwako made his comment at the National Library in Mbabane as he opened an exhibition of photographs depicting the early Baha’i’s in Swaziland.

“The Baha’is have established an educational complex in Malag— wane hill [in Mbabane] which strives to provide excellent academic and moral education at pre—ptimary, primary, and high school levels,” Mr. Hlatjwako said. The school, founded in 1990, has more than 850 enrollments this year. Students sit their examinations under the Cambridge international examinations system. Another example of the Baha’i contribution to education is the Tatbiyat School in Man— zini. This institution assists pupils who have difficulties in regular schools, with a curriculum that focuses on moral education, youth enrichment, computer literacy, and HIV/AIDS prevention. There are four other Baha’i schools in Swaziland.

The jubilee celebrations, held from 11 to 16 May 2004, featured presentations on the history of the Swaziland Baha’i community, which now has 24 Local Spiritual Assemblies. The event was rich in cultural entertainment. The Swaziland Baha’i choir sang and a local Baha’i youth dance troupe gave performances inspired by Baha’i principles. Thozi Nomvete and Crispin Pemberton—Pigott performed a song written for the occasion with lyrics about the history of the Faith in Swaziland. Guests received a color booklet produced for the jubilee, depicting the major events in the history of the Swaziland Baha’i community.

Some 600 participants, who came from Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, South Africa, and the United States enjoyed a traditional feast, known as braaz', which was held at the Baha’i center. Some longtime Baha’is, including Ben Dlamini, Chuck Ducket, and Jacob Mdluli, told touching stories about the first Baha’is in Swaziland, Bula Mott Stewart and John and Valera Allen.

Ms. Stewart arrived in Swaziland from the United States on II

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April 1954 and was designated a Knight ofBaha u liah. She spent six

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Malina M/eandzzwire ([619), member of t/ae Continental Board of Counsellor: fin" Aﬂim, and Eva Mnisi wearing traditional dress at t/aejubz'lee celebrations in Swaziland.

weeks in that country and later moved to South Africa to serve the Faith. On 19 April 1954, John and Valera Allen, also from the United States, arrived in the country to help establish the Baha’i community, and they, too, were named Knights of Baha’u’llah.

Mr. and Mrs. Allen were both elected to the first Local Spiritual Assembly of Mbabane in 1955. In 1959, Mrs. Allen was elected to the National Assembly of South and West Africa and served as secretary. Later Mr. Allen served as the chairman of the first National Spiritual Assembly of Swaziland, when it formed in 1971.

Among the first local people to become Baha’l’s were Isaiah Phala, a teacher, and his wife, Jemima. Others to follow were Ben Dlamini,

Chris Kuhlase, Andrew Mofokeng, Maxwell Ndlovu, and some of

[Page 58]58 THE BAHA’I’ WORLD 2004~2oos

the children of the late King Sobhuza 11, including Princess Gcinaphi, a medical doctor and ardent promoter of Baha’i principles.

On several occasions, Bahé’l’s met the king, who often assured them of his support for the Baha’i community. A tribute to him was offered at the jubilee by Beth Allen, a member of the Continental Board of Counsellors for Africa.

Representatives of King Mswati III and the Queen Mother were present at the jubilee festivities, a sign of the continuing good rela— tions between Swaziland’s royal family and the Baha’i community. A message from the king was read on his behalf by his brother, Prince Phinda, a member of the Swaziland National Council, in which he praised the Baha’i community’s efforts in educational and agricultural projects and their “active participation in and contribution to the welfare of the Swazi nation.”

Several newspapers reported extensively on the jubilee, among them 7796 Nation monthly magazine and the Weekend Observer. Ra— dio Swaziland broadcast several talks on the Faith, both in English and the local language, SiSwati.

TOGO

A message from one of the Baha’is who introduced the Baha’i Faith to Togo was a highlight of the jubilee celebrations, held from 20 to 22 August 2004 in Lorne and Djidjole. “I love you all so much, pray for your spiritual growth and that you may continue in faith and teaching the Cause of Baha’u’llah—the Cause of God,” wrote Mavis Nymon, 82, who now lives in the United States and was unable to attend the celebrations in this West African country.

Ms. Nymon, originally from Fargo, North Dakota, was 32 years old when she and 59—year-old Vivian Wesson of Chicago, Illinois, took the message of the Baha’i Faith to what was then called French Togoland, arriving on 2 May 1954. In her letter, which was read to the jubilee participants, she vividly described their dramatic landing by large dugout canoe in Ghana and their subsequent night journey across the border, ending with their arrival in the capital city of Lomé just before midnight. In her letter, Ms. Nymon described the help she and Mrs. Wesson received from Togolese people and how, about one month after their arrival, they met another Baha’i there, David Tanyi, from Cameroon. For introducing the Baha’i teach—

[Page 59]S9

WORLDWIDE JUBILEE

The Yoyoz/z' Komljz' cboz'rfi‘om Togo at t/Jejubileefistz'vities.

/)/

Performers from Karbongon at the national 80/70 1 convention, Ego, 2000.

[Page 60]60 THE BAHA’I’ WORLD 2004—2005

ings to French Togoland, the three received the accolade Knight of Bahé’u’lléh.

Fifty years after their arrival, the Faith is established in 66 5 locali— ties and there are 108 Local Spiritual Assemblies. Later, Ms. Nymon and Mrs. Wesson moved to Liberia to assist the Bahé’i’ community there.

More than 300 participants from 20 countries gathered in the capital City of Togo to celebrate the golden jubilee of the Bahé’l’ community. Throughout the celebrations youth groups and choirs provided entertainment. A message from the National Spiritual Assembly described the early days of the Togo Bahé’i’ community and named those who first accepted the message of the Faith there, including Emmanuel Ocloo, Bruno Adjakly, Samuel Ggogbo, Michel Kokou, Negble Attigah, and the first Togolese woman to become a Bahé’l’, Patience Adjakly.

An integral part of the jubilee was a regional Bahé’i’ youth conference, the main theme of which was “unity in diversity.” Performances came from the Henri Montra dance group, La Voix de l’Unite’ (Voices of Unity) choir of Djidjole, a choir from Yoyovi Kondji, the Rossignols d’Akké (Nightingales of Akké) choir, and a

A‘ 55 i I if

Some 0ft/Je particzpants at a gathering at the port ofKeeZung commemorating the anniversmy oft/Je arrival in 1954 ofearly memberx of the Ykiwanexe Ba/Jzi’z' community, Mr. and Mrs. Suleimani.

[Page 61]WORLDWIDE JUBILEE 61

dance group from Niamey, Niger. Presentations were given on the history of the Bahé’i’ Faith in Togo, and a slideshow brought back memories of the early days. The jubilee received extensive coverage in the local and national media.

The event was covered by Television Togolaise (a national tele— vision channel), Radio Lomé (a national radio station), the Grand Quotidz'm National d’Infbrmation Bgo—Pre‘sse (a national daily news- letter), and other private news services.

Asia

TAIWAN

A joyous event held in Tainan, Taiwan, from 22 to 24 October 2004 marked the 50th anniversary of the arrival in Taiwan of Suleiman and Ridvaniyyih Suleimani, a Persian couple who heeded the called for volunteers to move to the island to support the ﬂedgling Bahé’f community there. The Suleimanis arrived on 22 October 1954, when there were only 10 Bahé’l’s on the island. They remained in Taiwan for the rest of their lives as stalwart members of the Bahé’l’ community. Following in their footsteps over the decades, Bahé’i’s came from a range of countries to help local members develop the Taiwanese Bahé’i’ community. When the Suleimanis passed away, Mrs. Suleimani in 1981 and Mr. Suleimani in 1989, they bequeathed their home to the Faith, which now serves as the Bahé’i’ center for this thriving community.

On 21 October 2004, a group of Bahé’l’s held a prayer gather- ing at the port of Keelung, where the Suleimanis first arrived. The next day more than 100 Bahé’i’s from Taiwan, as well as guests from the United States, attended a morning devotional meeting at the Bahé’i center, during which prayers and selections from the Bahé’r’ writings were read, chanted, and sung. Musicians played the ﬂute, guitar, and piano. The afternoon session included reading of con— gratulatory messages from the National Spiritual Assemblies of the Bahé’l's of Canada, Hawaii, Hong Kong, and the United States. A representative of the city’s mayoral office also brought greetings to the participants.

A video presentation featured excerpts from the diary kept by Mr. Suleimani. Some Taiwanese Bahé’i’s who remembered the couple

[Page 62]Lcfi: Dr. Adelbert Mii/a/sc/ylegel, a Hand of t/ae Cause (secondfiom right), with King Sob/auza II (center). Others pictured ([99 to right) are Helen VVilks,

Mrs. Mz'i/ylsc/Jlegel, an aide to the King, and Valera Allen 0er right).

Right: fame: and Stella Mambo, in 1986, t/aefirst Baba’ ’z’: in

Botswana (then known as the Bec/auanaland Protectorate). Below rig/at: Km'g/at of 3419421715179 fir Ego, Mavis Nymon, in 1956.

Above: David YZZnyi (back row, fourt/Jfrom [cfi in white shirt) with Ba/m’ ’1’: in Bmale, Northern G/sza, in 1960. Below:

Participants at the third convention of the Baba’ ’z’s ofﬂae South Pacific in Suva, Fiji, in 1961.

[Page 63]

. " I . "I ' / ' z up’ 1 ‘I «L‘\ "

Above [efit- Musicians perfbrming at the golden jubilee of the Baka’ ’1’ community of

Burundi. Above right: Dancers who pmformed at the Rwandan Bahzz’ ’z’jubileeféstivities in Magisagzzm.

Above: Friends reunited at the Botswana Baka’ ’z’juhi/e‘e celebration: [Vimz Robarts (lay?) and £411)! \Wzm’n. Below [efis Some 0ftbe children at tlaejubileefistivitiex in Togo. Below right: Members 0ftbe Fijian Ba/m' ’2' community planting a Nmfolle Above: Samoan men bearing torches during Islandpine to commemorate the early ajubi/ee reception at the residence offbe szian Ba/m’ ’13. Head 0f5mte-

[Page 64]64 THE BAHA’I’ WORLD 2004—2005

shared stories and fond reminiscences. After a feast including Pet— sian and Chinese dishes, there was a family fun night characterized by music, singing, dancing, stories, and laughter. The next morn- ing Bahé’l’s gathered for prayers at the hilltop gravesite of Mr. and Mrs. Suleimani.

Australasia

FIJI

One Bahé’i community in Australasia that can trace its origins back long before the Ten Year Crusade is Fiji, which marked its 80th anni— versary in 2004. Fijian Bahé’fs planted trees in honor of the occasion

Particzpzmts at t/aefirst regional convention of the Bahzz’ ’1’: of the South Pacific, Suva, Fiji, in 1959. Hand of t/ae Cause 0fGod Collis Featherstone is at rear, fifi/Jfiom lcfi, A member of the Continental Board of Counsellors, Tinai Hancock of Fiji, is seated in tbefiont raw, fimrt/Jfiom Iefi. Irene fackson {later Mrs. Williams) is atfiont row, lefi‘.

[Page 65]WORLDWIDE JUBILEE 65

anniversary celebrations.

and as a tribute to the Bahé’l's in Fiji and Iran. Four trees, each a dif- ferent type of Norfolk Island pine (Araucaria) from different Pacific countries, were planted at the Bethe“ compound in Suva.

“A Norfolk pine from Australia signifies the services of Irene Jackson Williams, who came here in the mid 19505 to assist the Bahé’is,” said Kim Bowden—Kerby, the secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahé’l’s of Fiji.

“Another type of Amumrz’a, which can only be found in Fiji, stands in memory of the first Fijian Bahé’l’s,” she said.

“An Amumrz'a from Papua New Guinea was planted at the na— tional Bahé’l’ center to mark the 80th anniversary of the Faith in Fiji and one, 21 Cook pine from New Caledonia, for those Bahé’l’s who have been martyred in Iran.”

Norfolk Island pines, distinguished by their height, beauty, and symmetry, are well known by Bahé’l’s for gracing the approaches to the holiest places in the Bahé’l’ world, the Shrine of Bahé’u’lléh and the Shrine of the Béb in the Holy Land.

The plantings took place at the anniversary festivities, which were held from 12 to 15 November 2004. Present at the festivities were some longstanding members of the community including Victor

[Page 66]66 THE BAHA’I’ WORLD 2004—2005

Williams, Aisea Aisake (the first Rotuman Baha’i), Apisai Matau, Yee Wah Sing (the first Fijian Chinese Baha’r’), and Lepani Vakaloloma. They spoke about the early days of the Faith in Fiji and shared stories about their first encounters with the Baha’i teachings. Among the official guests at the celebrations was Ratu Joni Madraiwiwi, who subsequently became Vice—President of Fiji.

During those celebrations, Fiji—based historian Graham Has- sall addressed participants about the history of the Fijian Baha’i community and the individuals who played an important role in establishing it. Dr. Hassall highlighted the contributions of Irene Jackson (later Mrs. Williams), a Baha’i from Australia, Who arrived in Suva on 21 March 1954. Ms. Jackson, who worked as a bookkeeper in the capital, was soon elected as a member of the Local Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’r’s of Suva and served as its secretary. In 1959, when the first Regional Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’l’s of the South Pacific was formed, Ms. Jackson was elected secretary. Today there are 21 Local Spiritual Assemblies in Fiji, and Baha’l’s live in more than 80 localities.

A New Zealand Baha’i, Nora Lee, had lived in Fiji from I924 to about 1930, and before Ms. Jackson’s arrival there were already a number of staunch Baha’r’s in the country. Among the Baha’fs who Visited in the early days were Loulie Matthews and Alvin and Get— trude Blum. Among the first Fijians to accept the Faith were Nut and Violet Ali and Wali and Zainab Khan.

The celebrations were rich in music and dance. The Baha’is of the Lau Islands danced a traditional meke, while a youth group from the island of Rabi and a Babe“ choir sang songs. The performance of a Nasinu youth troupe included European, Fijian, and Indian dances.

Following the public ceremony there was a joyous two—day cel— ebration in the Baha’i compound where Baha’l's from all over Fiji shared stories and joined in group singing.

The Fiji Times, one of the mostly widely read dailies in the coun— try, published an article about the anniversary festivities.

MARIANA ISLANDS

On 2 May 2004, the Baha’l’s of the Mariana Islands celebrated the ar— rival of Cynthia and Edgar Olson, the Baha’i couple from Delaware,

[Page 67]WORLDWIDE JUBILEE 67

,./ "4

T/aefirst Local Spiritualexembly in the Marianas, 1956. At rear, Zefi, is Robert Powers. Atfiom‘, lefi, 1': joe [[engel/eei. Cynthia and Edgar Oban are standing, second and thirdfiom right.

in the United States, who brought the teachings of Bahé’u’lléh to them 50 years ago. The dramatic story of the Olsons was recounted at the gravesite of Mrs. Olson, who passed away in 1988.

The Olsons arrived in Guam in 1954, and from that foundation the Bahé’l’ Faith has spread across the four inhabited islands of the archipelago, located in the Pacific Ocean. At the time of the Olsons’ arrival, the Mariana Islands were still a military area, controlled exclusively by the US Navy, and security clearance was required even for short—tetm visitors. Cynthia Olson came first, completing the last leg of her 12,000—kilometer journey on a rate civilian Pan Am ﬂight, having convinced the Navy that she could be useful on Guam. Meanwhile, Edgar had stayed behind to close up their store and was anxiously awaiting word of her safe arrival. She landed on 2 May 1954 and sent a cable the next morning, which was im— mediately read to a cheering audience at the US Bahé’l’ National

[Page 68]68 THE BAHA’I’ WORLD 2004—2005

Convention. She was named a Knight of Bahé’u’llah as the first Baha’i to teach the Marianas.

In her memoirs, Mrs. Olson wrote about the first Baha’i Feast on Guam, when she and Robert Powers, a young Baha’i sailor who had been posted there temporarily, said prayers and had a picnic at the water’s edge in the southern village of Inarajan. Mr. Powers also received the title Knight of Baha’u’llah.

Her first job was as host of a popular daily program called “Women’s World” at the islands’ only commercial radio station. Ed— gar, widely known as “Olie,” followed a year later and also became a TV executive and presenter. In addition, the couple opened a popular Swedish pancake house on the island, which later functioned as a Baha’i center for the community. The Olsons quickly fell in love with the friendliness and generosity of the indigenous people, the Chamorros. Other ethnic groups there include Filipinos, Microne— sians, Asians, and a tiny minority of US mainlanders, often called “haoles” or “statesiders.”

In a message read at the commemoration event, Mrs. Madeleine Botdallo, Guam’s present US congresswoman, lovingly recalled Cyn- thia’s support and encouragement for her as a fellow radio presenter and later in Mrs. Bordallo’s official role as the First Lady of Guam. “As we remember Cynthia, let us remember a lady who was kind with her words, abundant with faith and hope, and generous with her love,” wrote Mrs. Bordallo.

Mrs. Olson later became a journalist for the United States Trust Territory of the Pacific, and then a supervisor responsible for arrang— ing scholarships for island students. Many of those students, some of whom stayed in the Olsons’ home, became prominent members of Guam society, including legislators, teachers, and businessmen.

The first Micronesian islander to become a Baha’i was Joe Erie Ilengelkei, who became the ninth member of the community, al— lowing the formation of the first Local Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of Guam on 21 April 1956. Today, the community includes seven Local Spiritual Assemblies.

PAPUA NEW GUINEA The Baha’is of Papua New Guinea celebrated the golden jubilee of

a community that includes more than 40,000 Baha’i’s living in all

[Page 69]WORLDWIDE JUBILEE 69

19 provinces of the country. Rather than holding the festivities in a central location of this mountainous country Where communities are often separated by difficult terrain, the celebrations were held at a variety of venues.

Some 700 Bahé’r’s from the New Ireland region and their guests gathered on 8 May 2004 for the anniversary festivities in Madina, where in 1958 the country’s first Local Spiritual Assembly was formed. There are now 252 of those nine—member local Bahé’l’ administrative councils spread throughout Papua New Guinea.

To mark the occasion, the local Bahé’l’s built a memorial pool at the Madina Bahzi’l' center as a tribute to the Bahé’r’s who introduced the Faith to the area. Colored lights illuminated two large stars that were placed in the middle of the pool to symbolize Bahé’u’lléh and the Bail).

The guest of honor was Rodney Hancock, who came to Papua New Guinea in July 1954 from New Zealand to help establish a Bahzi’r’ community. Mr. Hancock addressed the participants at the jubilee

Assemély of Madina, Papua New Guinea (center), ﬂanked by Rodney Hancock (1619), andﬂzlal Milk, member offhe Continental Board of Counsellors for Australasia, wit/a ot/aer Ba/m’ ’1’: at t/Jejubileefistivitz'es.

[Page 70]70 THE BAHA’I’ WORLD 2004—2005

about the exemplary life of Violet Hoehnke, an Australian Baha’i who introduced the Faith t0 Papua New Guinea, earning her the accolade of Knight of Baha’u’lléh, and who stayed at her pioneering post for 50 years. Confined to bed, Ms. Hoehnke was unable to at— tend the jubilee celebrations. She passed away one month later, on 4 June 2004, at the age of 87.3

Mr. Hancock also spoke of the difficulties of introducing the Faith in the 19505, when the Australian administration disapproved of any friendly association between expatriates and local people. He had to obtain special permission from the government before visiting villages. It took more than a year before he and Ms. Hoehnke could introduce the Faith t0 the first Papua New Guinean to become a Bahé’f—Apelis Mazakmat, a teacher from Munawai Village in New Ireland.

Participants at the jubilee also paid tribute to some of the other early believers who have passed away, among them Axomerang, Kelep, Romalus, Sairu, Salomie, Sanaila, and Tivien.

At the celebrations, New Ireland provincial administrator Rob— inson Sirimbat praised the efforts by the Bahé’l’ community to promote unity and understanding among the different religions in the region. Guests enjoyed a lavish traditional feast. Baha’i choirs,

[Page 71]WORLDWIDE JUBILEE 71

string bands, and “singsings” (traditional dancing and singing) pro— vided the entertainment.

In Rabaul, some 600 guests arrived on 3 April 2004 at the jubi— lee venue, Kulau Lodge, after traveling down a road decorated with streamers, ﬂowers, and a large banner. Donald Tulai, who grew up in Rabaul, was the master of ceremonies. Among the participants at the celebrations was Roslyn Bale, the first Papua New Guinean woman to become a Baha’i in that area. A dance group, wearing traditional costumes and headdresses, performed a dance that told the story of the first Local Spiritual Assembly.

The local Baha’i communities in Alotau, Baimuru, Balimo, and Pencat will hold their jubilee celebrations later this year.

SAM 0A

A royal welcome greeted participants at the “Waves of One Ocean” conference that marked the 50th anniversary of the introduction of the Baha’i Faith to Samoa and the 20th anniversary of the opening of the Baha’i House of Worship in Samoa. The conference, held from

T176 first Ba/m’ ’2’ Local SpiritualAsxembe in Samoa, 1957.

[Page 72]72 THE BAHA’I’ WORLD 2004—2005

22 to 26 September 2004, attracted some 600 Bahzi’i’ participants from 21 countries.

The Head ofState of Samoa and member of the Bahé’i' Faith, His Highness Susuga Malietoa Tanumafili 11, extended his greetings to the participants and expressed his joy in the many accomplishments of the Samoan Bahé’i’ community. The conference began with the reading ofa message from the Universal House ofJustice, in which it praised the Samoan Bahé’i’ community for its “energy, devotion, and vitality.” “Your nation has won the everlasting distinction of being blessed by the presence of His Highness Susuga Malietoa Tanumafili II, the first reigning monarch to accept the Message of Bahé’u’lléh,” the Universal House ofjustice said.

Present at the jubilee banquet, held on 22 September 2004, were acting Prime Minister Fiame Mataafa Naomi, other cabinet ministers, the chief justice, members of the diplomatic corps, and representatives of Christian churches. Welcoming the participants on behalf of the government of Samoa, Fiame Mataafa Naomi said she acknowledged with gratitude “the continuous and unwavering service rendered by the Bahé’i’ Faith t0 Samoa and its people for the

Ava;

‘2“5 \

i (‘Sfi

Performers in traditional costume at t/aejubi/eeféxtivities in Samoa.

[Page 73]WORLDWIDE JUBILEE 73

last 50 years.” “You have demonstrated in words and deeds that reli— gion is the real basis of Civilized life, which includes peace building, promotion ofhuman rights, equality of men and women, education, healthcare, and sustainable development,” she said.

Among the Baha’fs present were Lilian Wyss—Ala’i, who intro— duced the Faith to Samoa in 1954, and Hossein Amanat, the architect of the House ofWorship. Mrs. Wyss-Ala’i, then single and aged 24, arrived in Apia, Samoa, in 1954, while her brother, Frank, introduced the Faith to the Cocos Islands. For their service, Shoghi Effendi designated both of them as Knights of Baha’u’llah.

Mrs. Wyss—Ala’i, who continues to reside in American Samoa, delivered an address to the conference in which she spoke of her admiration for the Samoan people and shared historical anecdotes. Today, the Baha’i community there includes 29 Local Spiritual Assemblies.

The festivities included a traditional gift—giving ceremony, musical entertainment, the performance of a traditional dance by Samoan Baha’i Saifale’upolu Tamasese, a dramatic performance by the Samoan Baha’i youth dedicated to the Baha’l’s in Iran, and a Samoan dance performed by Mrs. Wyss-Ala’i.

Among gifts presented on that occasion was a traditional tapa cloth given by the Tongan Baha’is to Mrs. Wyss—Ala’i in memory of her late husband, Suhayl Ala’i, who served with great distinction in the region as a member of the Continental Board of Counsellors.

During a visit to the House of Worship at Tiapapata, Baha’i’s from the Samoan islands of Savai’i and Upolu performed songs and dances that depicted the arrival of the first Baha’is, the dedication of the Temple, and aspects of the Baha’i teachings. A devotional ser- vice dedicated to those Baha’fs who brought the Faith to the Pacific was held at the Temple and featured choirs from Samoa, American Samoa, Australia, Fiji, and New Zealand. Mr. Amanat delivered an address in the basement hall of the Temple.

The following day, more than 400 Baha’is attended a reception at the private residence of His Highness, the Malietoa. Among those present were members of the Continental Board of Counsel- lors, as well as representatives of the National Spiritual Assemblies of Australia, the Cook Islands, Fiji, Hawaii, New Zealand, Samoa, and Tonga.

[Page 74]74 THE BAHA’I’ WORLD 2004—2005

Later, members of the National Spiritual Assembly, accompanied by other members of the Baha’i community, presented traditional gifts to the government of Samoa, which was represented by acting Prime Minister Fiame Naomi and other cabinet ministers, including Health Minister Siafausa Mulitalo Vui, who thanked the Bahé’l’s for their contributions to the country.

Bahé’r’s in Samoa have made significant contributions to the well—being of the Samoan people. There are five Baha’i preschools in Samoa—two in Savai’i and three on Upolu. Members of the Baha’i community have been active in human rights education and have also produced a television cooking show promoting nutritional recipes.

The Bahé’r’s then Visited the gravesites, located on the Temple property, of Hand of the Cause of God Dr. Ugo Giachery and Mr. Ala’i. They also Visited the Baha’i cemetery and the Baha’i Montes— sori school.

On 27 September, many conference participants attended a joy- ous picnic at a local beach.

The festivities and conference received extensive coverage by national television, radio, and Samoan newspapers, published 10— cally and abroad.

Europe

ANDORRA

On 17 November 2004, Baha’t’fs from Andorra la Vella, Spain, and France attended the jubilee festivities of the Baha’i community of Andorra. William Danjon Dieudonne, the first Baha’i in Andorra, read the opening prayer at the celebration.

At a conference in Stockholm in August 1953, French—born Mr. Danjon decided to answer Shoghi Effendi’s call to establish the Faith in countries where there were no Bahé’r’s. When a key— note Baha’i speaker at the conference, the Hand of the Cause of God Dorothy Baker, asked for a Baha’i to settle in Andorra, Mr. Danjon volunteered. He left his home in Denmark and arrived in this mountainous country, located between France and Spain, on 7 October 1953, thus earning the accolade Knight of Bahé’u’llah. “To come to Andorra was the most important decision of my life,” said Mr. Danjon, who remains a resident.

[Page 75]WORLDWIDE JUBILEE 75

William Danjon ([619) meets the Prime Minister ofAndorm, Marc Fame Maine, at a reception for Ba/m’ ’z’ representatives before the anniversary

celeérzztions.

In 1954, he saw the first fruits of his decision When two residents of Andorra, Carmen Tost Xifre de Mingorance and her husband, Jose’ Mingorance Fernandez, joined the Faith. They remained steadfast until they passed away. Their son, Jose Mingorance Tost, is now chairman of the Local Spiritual Assembly of the Bahé’i’s of Andorra.

Although it was difficult initially for Mr. Danjon to obtain a job, he has since held prominent positions in the media, the public service, and the Red Cross. For eight years, he represented the An— dorra Trust Board in France, where he formally presented a book of the Tablets of Bahé’u’lléh to two French presidents, who, by virtue of their office, held the title of co-prince ofAndorta.

The jubilee celebrations included a dinner; musical performances with the piano, saxophone, and cello; presentations about the history of the Andorra community; and prayers for the Bahé’i's ofAndorra

[Page 76]76 THE BAHA’I’ WORLD 2004—2005

A

Some of the early Baba’ ’2’; of Monaco: (seated from [ey’i‘ to right) Guilda Navidi— W/al/eer, Florence Ullrz'c/a—Ke/[ey (with husband Larry Kelley), S/mmsi Navidi {wit}; granddaughter Alexandra Vfizlker.)

An early Spiritual Assembly 0ft/76 Bd/M’ ’1’: anomzco.

[Page 77]WORLDWIDE JUBILEE 77

who have passed away. Guests included representatives of Christian churches, the diplomatic corps, the Red Cross, and the media.

MONACO

More than 320 participants from 25 countries joined the Baha’is of Monaco to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the introduction of the Baha’i Faith in the principality, including guests from Albania, Canada, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Italy, and Uruguay.

The jubilee celebrations from 24 to 25 April 2004 were held at the Theatre de Variétés in Monte Carlo and opened with the reading of a welcoming message from the National Council of the Principality. Present at the jubilee were members of the Continental Board of Counsellors and representatives of the National Spiritual Assemblies of France, Italy, and Switzerland. Congratulatory messages arrived from other European Baha’i communities, and a message from the Board of Counsellors for Europe was delivered to the Monaco Baha’i community. The president of the Monaco National Council sent representatives to the jubilee. Also present was a representative of the mayor of Monaco. To commemorate the jubilee, the postal authorities issued a special postal mark.

The celebrations featured many artistic presentations, including performances by Tunisian-born singer Hatef Sedkaoui, also known as Atef, guitarist Serge Merlaud, and pianist Francine Astani. Par- ticipants Viewed slides depicting the history of the Monaco Baha’l' community, as well as a short film on the late Hand of the Cause of God Ugo Giachery, who resided in Monaco during his later years.

In September 1953, Nellie French, 85, was the first Baha’l’ to ar— rive in Monaco, but she passed away a few months later. For her act of service in bringing the Faith to the country, she received the accolade Knight of Baha’u’llah from Shoghi Effendi. Shamsi Navidi arrived from Iran in February 1954 with her daughters Vida and Guilda, followed by her husband, Aziz Navidi, a few months later. They were named Knights of Baha’u’llah, as were Florence Ullrich (later Ullrich-Kelley), a young college graduate, and Olivia Kelsey, an accomplished Baha’i author and poet, who arrived from the United States in March 1954.

[Page 78]78 THE BAHA’I’ WORLD 2004-2005

Some afrbe participants at tbejubi/ee celebrations in 5471 Marina. Solarab Payman and lais wife, D&ande/J, who infioa’uced the Ba/m’ ’1’ Fairly to San Marino, are pictured at right.

Ms. Ullrich—Kelley said the Baha’l’s initially found it difficult to establish contact with the locals. However, they made the effort to learn the language and soon met people who were interested in the Faith. The first person to become a Baha’i in Monaco was Margaret Lantz, of Luxembourg. Soon after her a Frenchman, M. Charbonnet, who owned an antique shop in Monaco, also accepted the Faith. Charlotte Campana was the first person of Monegasque nationality to become a Baha’i. The first Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of Monaco was established in 1955.

One highlight of the jubilee was the reading of a prayer in Mon— egasque. The guests of honor at the jubilee were former member of the Universal House ofjustice, Mr. ‘Ah’ Nakijavanf, who addressed the participants on spiritual matters, and his wife, Violette, who described the visit in the 19805 to Monaco ofAmatu’l-Bahé Rfihl'yyih Qanum, a Hand of the Cause of God and the widow of Shoghi Effendi.

SAN MARINO

Prominent government officials paid tribute to the Baha’i commu- nity of San Marino at a gala dinner celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Baha’i Faith in the country. The anniversary was “a very special . ' 3) l and 1mportant occasmn, the Secretary of State for Industry, Claudlo

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Felici, told 100 prominent citizens of San Marino and their Bahé’i’ hosts at the event held on 25 September 2004. He conveyed greet— ings from the government and praised the Bahé’i’s’ efforts in human relations and their attitude towards peace.

The activities of the Faith in seeking peace and religious unity are well known in San Marino, 3 country surrounded by Italy, and a member of the United Nations since 1992, which lays Claim to the description of “the world’s oldest republic.” A message read to the jubilee dinner from the captains regent, Paolo Bollini and Marino Riccardi, said, “the presence of the Babe“ community in San Marine is of great significance and will help bring a future of certainty and peace.”

A prominent member of the Italian Bahé’i’ community, Julio Savi, delivered an address to the gathering in which he outlined the history of the Bahé’i’ Faith in San Marino. Dr. Savi described how Tabandeh (“Toby”) Payman of Iran was attending a Bahé’i confer- ence in Stockholm in 1953 when she decided to introduce the Faith to San Marino as part of the Bahai’i’s’ 10—year plan to take the teach— ings around the world. Without returning to her home in Tehran, she moved directly to San Marino, where her husband, Sohrab, and their daughter Ghitty joined her some months later. They established friendships, and soon the Bahé’i’ ideas and principles became better known in the country.

Mr. and Mrs. Payman received the accolade of Knight of Bahé’u'lléh for their service in introducing the Bahé’i’ Faith to San Marino. They still reside there and were honored participants at the jubilee festivities. The celebration continued with a concert in the Titano theater where a prominent singer from Ghana, Ranzie Mensah, performed, accompanied 0n the piano by Alfredo Matera and by singers Stefy Piovesan, Aurelio Pitino, and Lidia Genta Rigamonti.

NOTES

1 Shoghi Effendi, Messages to the Ba/m’ ’1’ World 1950—57 (Wilmette, IL: Bahé’l’ Publishing Trust, 1971), p. 42.

2 More information about many of the jubilee celebrations can be found on the Website of the Bahé’i’ World News Service, http://news.bahai.org/. For a

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comprehensive list of countries and territories opened during 1954—1955, see Glenn Cameron with Wendi Momen, A Basic Baltid’z' Chronology (Oxford: George Ronald, 1996), pp. 309—327.

For more information on the life ofViolet Hoehnke, see her obituary on pp. 288—289.