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YEAR 116
"....We are in this day the chosen instruments of God's grace.......our mission is most urgent and vital to the fate of humanity....fortified by these sentiments, arise to achieve God's holy purpose for mankind."
Shoghi Effendi
OCTOBER-NOVEMBER 1959 Vol. XVII No. 2 Editor: Don Streets, 2517 S. 17th St., Niles,Mich.
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HIGH SCHOOL TEACHING COLUMN
by Susan Foster
"A 'best teacher,' an 'exemplary believer' is ultimately neither more nor less than an ordinary Bahá’í who has consecrated himself to the work of the Faith, deepened his knowledge and understanding of its teachings, placed his confidence in Bahá’u’lláh and has arisen to serve Him to the best of his ability. This door is one which we are assured will open before the face of every follower of the Faith who knocks hard enough, so to speak. When the will and desire are strong enought the means will befound and the way opay ed." (Shoghi Effendi, Bahá’í News, Insert Sept. 1957) This statement should be considered especially important in the minds of the Bahá’í Youth for sometimes we are inclined to think that because we are notasaccomplished or experienced as some of the pioneers or . great Bahá’í teachers that we are incapable of teaching.r-Everyone can and is able to teach in some way. God assists those who try to advance His Cause amongst His people. Concerning assistance Abdu’l-Bahá wrote (Bahá’í World Faith pg 3a5)--—"For it is impossible that the friends of God could receive assistance unless they be engaged in delivering the message.”
At the National Bahá’í Convention, May 23-26, 1959, at Wilmette, Illinoise, it was reported that #0 new believers were obtained in the U.S. this year. This number was gotten by subtracting the believers who had withdrawn or passed away, from the number newly enrolled in the Faith. What is happening to this beautiful Faith of Bahá’u’lláh? We are not working for our own selfish desires, but for God alone. Teaching is not a sacrifice or an imposition, but a manifold joy and privilege which can not, and must not, be ignored by the velievers.
All fears must be removed, and our teaching efforts must surge ahead with such enthusiasm and love for God's plan for this day, that the whole world may be effected. Let's not let others do our teaching for us. Sometimes we are hesitant about talking of the Faith to our friends because in most areas the Bahá’í
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Youth are wide-spread and few, but because of our
small numbers it is especially important to ask the
assistance of the adult and more experienced members
of the community. Abdu’l-Bahá wrote "Do not look at
your small numbers. Plurality of numbers is not of importance. Importance concerns faith, assurance, veracity, firmness, attainment to the kingdom. If you attain unto this, though there be but two persons, remember that two persons are equivalent in strength of
character to the whole world."
I would like to say at this point that we should not at any time consider ourselves "queer" or "different" because the Bahá’í Faith is comparatively small and new. Fear 3; ridicule i3 only'asign 9; immaturity. Christ's followers and disciples were scorned and persecuted. Compare this to some of the sacrifices the Persian believers and others have madefortheir faith!
In teaching there are two essential principles we should constantly be aware of, and they are: 1. To teach not only the principles of the Faith but also the supreme station of the Bahá’í Revelation, for only through belief in the Manifestation of God himself will the world be more spiritually awakened. 2. To base all statements upon the Divine Texts. We do not want this glorious and divine faith to be harmed by misinterpretation and our own personal opinions.
"Thought lacking in experience and faced with insufficient resources," wrote Shoghi Effendi in A.D.J. Pg. 58—, of the youth in America, "yet the adventurous spirit which they possess, and the vigor, alertness and optimism they have thus so far consistently shown, qualifies them to play an active part arousing the interest, and in securing the allegiance of their fellow youth". But are we living up to this praise given by our Beloved Guardian? There is still an unlimited amount of teaching to be done in order to bring about that "heaven on earth" which Christ spoke of in the Lord's Prayer. That prayer is also a prophecy.
fig must not wait £3; souls to turn towagg 3; EEE instead, all 9; our efforts should be concentrated 93 finding them. In speakingof‘the words "immediately after the oppression of those days" Bahá’u’lláh wrote in the Book of Certitude, Pg. 51, "What oppressionijsmore grievous than that a soul seeking the truth, and wish 3
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ing to attain unto the Knowledge of God, shduld not
know where to go for it and from whom to seek it. .On
their tongue the mention of God hath become an empty
name, and in their midst His Holy Word a dead letter."
Are we not the ones to bring this Light of New Revelation to the seeker? ‘
There are many and various ways in which to teach
the Faith in our high schools. Of course to Live the
Life is the' most important and efficaCious way, for
through this an atmosphere 'of respect is created and
many friends are made for the Faith. But along with
this there must be more intensified direct teaching.
One without the Other will make our efforts teaching
less forceful. Remember 'however, "Should such a man
ever succeesixlinfluencing anyone, this success should
be attributed not to him, but rather to the influence
. of the Word of God, as decreed by Him who is the Almighty, the All-Wise. In the sight<foed.he is regard
..ed as a lamp that imparteth its 1ight,-and yet is all
the while being consumed within itself." (G1. Pg. 277)
In talking with other youth and from teaching ex-. periencesiJithis area, the discussion group or informa1 fireside has proved to be the most effective method . of presenting the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh. A leader guides
“’fithe"group'in ‘discussion of various topics which would
"interest and hold the attention of other youth such as: The influence of the Prophets Effect of God in our Daily Life Morals and Rectitude of Conduct Love and Marriage ” Progression of the Soul Friends and their Importance Science and Religion The Purpose of Man What is prayer? ‘10. Prophecies fulfilled Outside or guest speakers can also be invited to these discussions. In inviting these speakers one factor should be considered, that the speaker be one who would talk on the level of the average teenager.
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\OCD‘JChU‘l-P’WMH
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For those who show igcgeased interest, the deepens
ing class where the writings may be studied more thoroughly would help ‘haenlighten them further in the fundamental teachings of the Bahá’í Dispensation.
In our conversation with others, remember that our objective should be Bahá’í-wise. We first must find points of agreement but at the same time do not alsays agree just to be agreeing. 'Differences of opin ion often creates interestznuithus causes the inquirer to seek out and find the truth." ‘- I've heard many say that the high school age youth just aren't interested in the Bahá’í Faith, but K this is not so! The soul of every man longs for the Divine message. ‘5 . ‘ ‘ a 'i
One point that needs ”stressing in teaching in a Christian society is the 'fadt that most Christians fear that we are attempting to deStroy their faith or belief in Christ._ Establish from- the very beginning that the Bahá’í Faith is van advancements of religionand does not destroy the ‘teaChings *pr Christ, but is instead a fulfillment of the ward of Christ. m: ;§"ai
Socials-are a very“ good means 'of"conveying‘the Bahá’í spiritcflfwarmth‘and friendliness. These.socials however, muSt always retain an‘ atmosphere-of dignity. "In this Day, we can neither approve the conduct of the feafful that seeketh to dissemble the Faith, nore sanction the behavior of the avowed believer that
- clamorously asserteth his allegiance to this cause.
Both should abserve the dictates of wisdom and strive diligently to serve the best interests of the Faith." (Gls. pp sha) "One thing and only one thing will unfailingly and alone secure- the undoubted triumph of this sacred Cause, namely, the extent to which our own inner life and private character‘mimror forth in their manifold aspects the splendour of those eternal principles proClaimed by Bahá’u’lláh." (Guidance for Today and Tomorrow, pp 194) Courtesy, kindness, truthfulhEss sincerity, and love are the greatest teachers, we. as Bahá’ís can possess. '
The observance of Holy days is another means of recognition for the Faith. In taking off from school we should consider the way in which the holy day is spent if it is to be respected in the eyes of‘ our friends. Perhaps part of the day could be spent in
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studying about the event which the day represents. A180 you might do a job or anerrand for someone who is‘
disabled or because of age would appreciate the help.
Just a friendly visi gean let one know that you have
remembered them, and it is surprising how it melts
hearts and impresses others. ‘
. The importance of high sshool teaching can not be
overly emphasized. There are always ways to present
the Faith. Just informing your friends that you are
going to Feast night, a study class or to a Bahá’í
Youth Conference lets them know that the Bahá’í Faith
is an active religion.
The Faith can be presented in compositions, themes, or any type of essay written where you can express your own ideas3 even reports on Bahá’í books can be given in English Class. , ‘ Many schools belong to the High Schoo1 Speech Association, or have some form of speech classes. What better opportunity could you have to present some ase pect of the Bahá’í Faith. Also some high schools hays clubs which would be very beneficial in expressing any Bahá’í views, even if you don't label them Bahá’í. ‘Several weeks ago in the Bible Club at our school the topic "Prophecies Fulfilled" was presented. The Great Books Club studies themes and books written by great men, and religion is often times discussed.
In church youth groups, studies are made on other religions of the world. Why couldn't you present the Bahá’í Faith? It might be done either by showing slides of the Holy Land, giving a talk or presenting a panel. One point is important, however, that we should be well acquainted with the Bible. _; 3
Our Bahá’í spirit should not be derived from the spirit of others but instead it should serve as an incentive and inSpiration. we can only gain this true snirit by reading from the holy writings of Bahá’u’lláh, Abdu’l-Bahá, and. Shoghi Effendi, and also through prayer and our fervent devotion to God.
Teaching is not a proposition where we teach when we have the time, but instead we must teach every minute of our lives by radiating forth such spirit and Baha' i love that it will affect the hearts of all who
come in contact with us.
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Let us ask ourselves these questions in order that we as individuals might observe more oarefulb our own actions, weaknesses, and abilities for teach _ing. Do I have any faults that in terms of the teach ings do not assist in my efforts to reflect the beauty
';of this Divine Revelation? How attached am I to mater‘ialism and my own personal desires? Do I mirror forth
at all times love, purity, and detachment as well as. Constantly trying to be a better or more devoted Baha' 1? Am I obtaining any results from my teaching ef ~forts, and if not, WHY?
If you have any suggestions about, or problems in High School teaching I would be glad to hear from you. Please write: ' Susan Foster 50 Rainbow Dr. (Castle 3111) Waterloo, Iowa . . , "Maywe all increasingly strive toward and meet our teaching goals. If we fail, all Of mankind will suffer, for man either progresSes or retrogresses- by his own efforts both individually or collectively.
A LETTER FROM THE PHILIPPINES Dear Bahá’í Friends:
I have prepared-a short article on the University of the Philippines in the hope that it may entice one of our young Bahá’ís to consider this school for his higher education while serving the Faith at the same time o ’ 1
The University of the Philippines .is perhaps the only far eastern university based on a typical American style. It has a beautiful campus which is constan 1y being developed with new buildings. At the present, its student body is about 2,500. The faculty is quite good, most of whom have received their education in the United States. It offers degrees in almost all fields and has many opportunities for engaging in the area of Asian studies.
The cost compared to an American university is nominal. A total year's expenses would amount uarough .ly 3500.00 when translated into the exchange rate of ‘the peso. This would cover tuition and board. The
living conditions are quite adequate and pleasant.
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Many universities in the states will have a brochure.pn the University shouldzistudent wish to investigate it further. The weather is pleasant during the
school months from June to March with a summer break
in April and May, the warm months. No winter clothing
is neCessary. Living costs in the university neighborhood are quite reasonable, while Manila is quite costly. Thereeuxzsome jobs available such as library per‘sonnel, office, etc. The University sends most of itsv
graduates to the states for higher degrees and“ sorne
complain that the states are "too easy!" So you won't
lose anything in academic stature by coming here.
For further information, write to me and I will be glad to give what I know. Presently, I am teaching and working on a Master's degree in Political Science.
A graduate of the University, Mrs. Gomez, is held in '
high esteem.by_the University and has opened nmmw'doors
fon.the Cause here. You may write her in care of me .
or to her directly: Mrs. Luisa Mapa Gomez; 15 Bay View, Drive, Paranaque, Rizal, Philippines, for furtherb information; She was at the University up to 1950;
Hoping that in a very short time you will be able ,to find an aspiring young Bahá’í to send to the.' university here....
In His service, Bill Allison
YMCA, Manila, Philippine Islands
EVENTS FOR PROCLAIMINQ THE FAITH
Birthday of Bahá’u’lláh. Iov 12 National Bahá’í Youth Week Nov 23-30 Bahá’í State Conventions Dec 6 World Religion Day Jan 17
NATIONAL BAHA'I YOUTH WEEK is an occasion on which the W
youth all over the country should make special efforts to promulgate the Faith by having firesides and meet ‘ ings of all kinds on a local level. Please sendjjiyour reports of National Bahá’í Youth Week events to the Bulletin editor.
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POETRY AND MUSIC
COMPOSITION CONTEST
. A conference concerning the joy that Bahá’í Youth. experience in singing, brings out the fact that there. are but a few real Bahá’í songs now available. Believing that the Youth themselves are capablecfifcontributing poems to be set to music, this challenge to meet the need for Bahá’í music, is placed before you. It has been suggested that this effort take the form of a contest but not after the pattern of the usual contest‘ with material prizes. Rather, in the case of theée Bahá’ís, the reward will be the spiritual joy and‘ satisfaction in the realization that they have beeni able to contribute where contributions are much needed. The contest will fall into two groups. One will bethe group of poems which best lend themselves--through. their meaSure or rhythm or beat -- to be set to music. The other group might be considered for publication; for children. ’
HOW TO PROCEED
1. Hunt through the literature for something yam. think is very beautiful in sentiment, very helpful in daily living, very consoling in time of trouble, very joyful in time of happiness etc. etc. .
2. Express in your own words what you have read. in order to be sure that you have gained the meaning.
3. See if this meaning will swing into poetry. At this point much freedom must be used. You may find occasion for consulting with your English teachers for” criticism or structure.
Some poems may be songs of joy and happiness with lively music accompaniment. Others may be songs of suplication for aid. Others may be songs of Thanksgiving. There are many different kinds. .If you are interested in setting your poem to music information concerning original composing may be obtained from Chapter X of Anne E. Pierce's book,"Teaching music in
"ythe Elementary School." If you cannot set your poem to
music send the poem in anyway after you have tried to get a criticism of it.
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If you need any suggestions to start you off,
just think of many a familiar word or phrase, such as:
Rose Garden, Dawn, Oneness, Kindness, Are you happy?
Leaves of One Tree, Prayer, Drops of One Ocean, Love,
Springtime, Unite our hearts etc. etc.
.We are in a new age! 'Bahá’í young people, with prayer and concentration, will produce the words and the music to go with this wonderful Bahá’í Era. We should be able in the course of a few years to make a Bahá’í Song Beck.
RULES FOR THE CONTEST
1. All Bahá’ís may participate.
2. Each poem must teach some phase of the Faith.
5. Poems should be typed, titled and signed with the name and address of the author.
4. Entries are unlimited. No poems will be returned.
5. Poems and music to be mailed as soon as possible to Mary Elizabeth Hyde, 704 Ravine Ave Peoria, Ill
6. Deadline March 1,1960
Professional or experienced musicians (Bahá’ís only) are requested to send their names and addressed (soon) to Miss Hyde at the above addressin order that approved words and poems may be mailed to them to be set to music and returned to the same address.’ Please use mailing tubes or some protection for keeping the music in good condition. Thank you.
The NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY assumes no obligation to utilize any of the material which may be forthcoming from the contest.
NEWS BRIEFS
Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The youth .in this area‘ assisted at the Bahá’í Booth at the Sioux Empire Fair
and report that students took~ most_ of the 850 pieces
of literature which were given out. These young people. were interested in the slides of the Holy Land and the
Wilmette Temple and asked many questions.
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Tucson, Arizona
On Sunday evening of August 9th, three Tucson
youth were invited to give a talk on the Faith at the Catalina Methodist Church. The presentation was given to about 40 high school Juniors and Senoirs. '
Mr. Steve Powers spoke on the history and growth of the Faith, and Miss Evelyn Baral spoke on Bahá’í principles and youth activity. Mr. Behsad Rouhani gave a Persian chant. The Minister and youth asked questions for quite a while after the presentation which showed their interest in the Faith.
After the meeting the youth asked us to attend a social and expressed their desire to attend one of our meetings. The meeting was quite successful.
Blue Ridge Summer Schoel
For the thirty youth who attended the Blue Ridge Summer School in North Carolina there was plenty of activity. In the mornings we attended a class in which we read and discussed ghrist and Bahá’u’lláh. A different youth lead the class each day. Many of us went to the adult classes in the afternoons and evenings, each of us feeling it his responsibility to attend one other class.
Those who liked sports went swimming in the lake or horseback riding in Black Mountain. The activity planned for the evening consisted of charades, square dancing, and a community sing. This was all climaxed with a talent night with skits and entertainmentvhich we had a wonderful time planning.
We left Blue Ridge with a desire not only to study the Faith more, but become active to teach and serve the World Crusade.
Waterloo2 Iowa. The Youth of Castle Hill and Waterloo have formed
a Bahá’í Circuit Teaching Panel. There are three people on the panel, Marilee Foster, Steven Foster and Donald Darby. Anyone in this area who would like to have the panel visit them please contact:
Donald Darby (Panel Corr. Sec.) 806 Rainbow Drive Waterloo, Iowa
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ZAHRL SCHOENY: 24 years old, been active in youth work since 15 yrs old; taught junior youth classes at Los Angeles, Geyserville Bahá’í and the Bahá’í Temple School; served as secretary on LSA; chairman of NBYC for two years; presently studying speech pathology and psychology as a senior at Northern Illinois Un‘versity.
LARRY COOPER: 21 years 01d; has attended Geyserville Bahá’í schcol for 7 years; been on the NBYC for four years; chairman of the LYC in Eilmette, 111.; works as Assi tent
Photogrfipher of the Layout Dept. for the Lithognphy, multilith Division at Redson-Rice Corporation.
DONALD STREETS: 24 years old. graduated from Indiana University 1
June, 1936; Bachelors of Scienc Degree in Business Education: Presently teaching elementary mathematics in Mishawaku, Indiana; Editor of Bahá’í Youth Bulletin.
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