Bahá’í News/Issue 122/Text

←Previous

Bahá’í News Issue 122

Next→

Proofread onceReturn to PDF view

[Page 1]

BAHA’I NEWS

Published by
The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís
of the United States and Canada
General Office: 130 Evergreen Place, West Englewood, New Jersey

No. 122

JANUARY, 1939

---

“TRIUMPHANTLY USHERS IN FINAL PHASE OF THE MAJOR TASK”

New Temple Contract Placed—Summary of Seven Year Plan

The Guardian’s cablegram of November 29, 1938, quoted in the last issue of BAHÁ’Í NEWS, establishes for the American Bahá’ís a new and higher spiritual summit from which to survey the progress already achieved and the task still to be completed in fulfilment of the Seven Year Plan. The hour is fateful and propitious, calling for complete understanding of all the elements of the Plan, both in Temple construction and in teaching effort, and summoning all believers to a supreme consecration of spirit in service to the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh.

Local Assemblies, National Committees, groups, traveling teachers, members of organized communities and isolated believers—all alike are to grasp the essential facts, assist in clarifying the vital issues and seize this potent occasion to create the means of final victory in the courageous and steadfast soul of the American Bahá’í community. Surpassing is the confirming power that has been released; unequalled must be our determination to be worthy instruments in the hands of that world-transforming Destiny manifested by Bahá’u’lláh.

Gallery Section Near Completion
Work Begins on First Story

When the Seven Year Plan was created for us by the Guardian, only the Temple dome and clerestory had received their exterior decoration. The gallery, first story, surrounding stairs and metal doors and window grills were all still to be undertaken. The total cost of these successive contracts, as reported in the special announcement inserted in BAHÁ’Í NEWS of June, 1937, was $350,000.

During that year the contract for decorating the gallery section was placed at an estimated cost of $125,000, and at the present time this contract is completed except for portions of the nine pylons, which will be done in the spring of 1939.

The National Spiritual Assembly recently was informed that savings both in time and cost could be effected if a contract were placed for the execution of the hand-carved models required in the exterior decoration of the first story; if, in other words, instead of waiting until a contract could be given for all the work on the first story, a contract were given for the first stage in that work. Such a contract has been given to Mr. Earley by the Temple Trustees, in the amount of $21,000, and the believers are therefore informed that work on the first story is now under way.

Before taking this important step, the opportunity was reported to the Guardian, and his approval was received in the following cablegram on November 29: “Approve placing immediate contract (for) models. Delighted. Unbounded gratitude.—Shoghi.” Incidentally, a further saving in cost has been effected in the decoration of the first story by purchasing all the quartz in advance under a special agreement with the owners of the quarry.

Future Temple Contracts

The unfinished Temple work is to proceed under the following schedule:

1. Models for first story (already contracted)	$21,000.00
2. Quartz for first story (already contracted)	5,000.00
3. Molds for first story	29,000.00
4. Casting and applying units to first story	95,000.00
5. External staircase, and metal work, including outside doors	75,000.00
	__________
Total future cost in Seven Year Plan	$225,000.00
Plus gallery contract (funds on hand)	125,000.00
	__________
Total Temple cost in Plan	$350.000.00*
	════════
Considering now that figure of future cost	$225,000.00
We have on hand in the Bahíyyíh Khanum Fund as of December 10, 1938	37,047.20
Balance necessary from contributions before end of Seven Year Plan (for Temple)	$187,952.80

[Page 2]

The Annual Budget

The Annual Budget reported for the current Bahá’í year contains the item of $75,000 for Temple construction, and this item stands unchanged either by the Guardian’s cablegram published last month or by the placing of the new contract for models. We must bear in mind that each year of the Seven Year Plan is charged with its vital share of the total responsibility. The ‎successsive successive‎ contracts are placed as funds are available, and consequently there must be a certain rate of income during the first five years of the Plan if the work is to be completed by the end of the first century of the Bahá’í Era. That rate, the Temple work alone, is $75,000 each for the third, fourth and fifth years of the Plan.

From the 1938 Convention to the October meeting of the National Spiritual Assembly at Knoxville, the contributions received under the Annual Budget provided but little surplus for the new Temple Fund. The following message addressed by the Guardian to the National Assembly on October 14, sent in reply to a heartfelt cablegram despatched to him from that meeting, augmented the determination of the members to strive for the success of the Seven Year Plan: “Heartened (by) message. Praying (for) added fervor, deepened longing, acceleration (of) Temple construction (and) increasing momentum (in) teaching force. May both culminate (in) placing, (within) appointed time, final contract heralding (the) consummation (of the) hopes born thirty years ago (in the) hearts (of the) American believers.”

A Twofold Task

“Increasing momentum” must also be our determined ideal in the field of teaching. Are we collectively responding even yet to that appeal cabled to the Convention in 1936: “Would to God every State within American Republic and every Republic in American continent might ere termination (of) this glorious century embrace (the) light (of the) Faith of Bahá’u’lláh and establish structural basis of His World Order.”

In our inexpressible gratitude for the bounty we have received from the Guardian’s recent donation to the Fund, and his association of future construction with the Greatest Holy Leaf, may we hold the balance between our services to Temple and those we are privileged to render in promoting the teaching work.

NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY.

_____
* Estimated cost. The estimate of cost for ‎gallary gallery‎ section was higher than actual cost so far.

“MY HEART BRIMS OVER WITH GRATITUDE”

Letter from Shoghi Effendi

Dear and valued co-workers:

I had scarcely dispatched my cable expressing my approval of your written suggestion to enter into a contract as soon as one-third of the estimated cost of the First Story of the Temple is in hand when the most welcome news reached me of your readiness to place an immediate contract for the making of the models, thus effecting considerable saving of time and expense in connection with the ornamentation of the remaining unit. I am thrilled by the news, and my heart brims over with gratitude as I witness on the one hand the evidences of your resourcefulness and unrelaxing vigilence, and observe on the other the ready and generous response of the individual believers at every critical stage in the prosecution of this magnificent enterprise. I feel so happy and thankful to have been able ta associate, at this juncture, through my recent offering to the Temple Construction Fund, the name of the Greatest Holy Leaf, with the noble exertions of those who, through their unstinted support, both moral and financial, are so valiantly acquitting themselves of their task under the Seven Year Plan.

The initial contract, proclaiming the opening of the final phase of a work that embodies the finest contribution ever made by the West to the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh, is now ready for your signature. The fourth of the successive steps outlined in my previous message is punctually being taken. The fond hopes cherished on the assumption of your exalted office are being amply fulfilled. The heroism displayed by the members of the American Bahá’í Community in the face of these recurring, constantly widening opportunities is growing more apparent every day. With every fresh crisis that plunges a hapless humanity deeper and deeper into the morass of despair and degradation, the pioneers of the nascent Faith of Bahá’u’lláh are elevated to nobler heights of triumph, evince a rarer spirit of self-abnegation and courage, and disclose more compelling evidences of their capacity and power.

Every operation, no matter how indirectly connected with the dual responsibilities assumed by the American believers, must continue to be conducted and supported with that self-same ‎assuidity assiduity‎, sternness of purpose and steadiness of vision that have garnered them thus far so rich a harvest. A work so auspiciously begun, so efficiently organized, so rapidly extended, so uniquely blessed, can never be allowed, however somber the clouds looming on the international horizon, to fall into obeyance or to even appear to have sustained the least injury from the world-shaking forces that now batter on the tottering institutions of human society. The adamant determination of those who support it will enable it to yield at the appointed time its destined fruit. Your true and grateful brother, SHOGHI.

November 27, 1938.

---

“THIS HISTORIC ENTERPRISE”

A Letter from Shoghi Effendi

“With reference to the ornamentation of the gallery section of the Temple; the Guardian wishes me to express his entire satisfaction at the rate at which the work is progressing, and also to assure your Assembly of his approval of the suggestion made by Mr. Earley, which will have the effect of expediting considerably the work of the ‎ornamentatiton ornamentation‎ of the first story.

“He further wishes me to stress the importance of placing the contract for the models and molds before the completion of the present contract, as this, he strongly feels, will save much time, and would in addition enable your Assembly, in the meantime, to accumulate more funds and thus insure the uninterrupted progress of the ornamentation of the rest of the Temple.

“He would, in closing, urge your Assembly, and wishes, through you, to renew his plea to the entire body of the American believers, to spare no effort to bring this historic enterprise to final consummation at the appointed time. They would certainly be failing in one of their most vital obligations, at this crucial period in the development of the Cause, if they allow the work of that sacred edifice to suffer any setback. But there is surely no ground

[Page 3] for any such doubt. Rather, there is every reason to believe that the American Bahá’í Community, the range and quality of whose achievements have raised it to so unique and enviable a position among its sister communities throughout the West, will, as in the past, endeavor with one accord to fulfil, to the very last and with that selfsame spirit of abnegation and heroic resolve that have characterized its previous accomplishments, all its obligations and responsibilities under the Seven Year Plan.”

November 27, 1938.

---

BAHA’I ANNIVERSARIES

A Letter from Shoghi Effendi

“The Bahá’í day starts and ends at sunset, and consequently the date of the celebration of Bahá’í feasts should be adjusted to conform to the Bahá’í calendar time. For further particulars on this subject you should refer to the section entitled ‘Bahá’í Calendar’ in ‘The Bahá’í World.’

“The Guardian would advise that, if feasible, the friends should commemorate certain of the feasts and anniversaries at the following time:

“The anniversary of the Declaration of the Báb on May 22, at about two hours after sunset.

“The first day of Ridvan, at about 3:00 P. M. on the 21st of April.

“The anniversary of the Martyrdom of the Báb on July 9 at about noon.

“The anniversary of the Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh, on May 29 at 3:00 A. M.

“The Ascension of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá on November 28, at 1:00 A. M.

“The other anniversaries the believers are free to gather at any time during the day which they find convenient.”

November 27, 1938.

TEMPLE CONSTRUCTION—12
By November 11, 1938, the gallery section had been completed except for the pylons.

“THE CHARTER OF THE NEW WORLD ORDER”

Arise and Teach

“O ye that stand fast in the Covenant! When the hour cometh that this wronged and broken winged bird will have taken his flight unto the celestial concourse, when it will have hastened to the Realm of the Unseen and its mortal frame will have been either lost or hidden neath the dust, it is incumbent upon the Afnán, that are steadfast in the Covenant of God, and have branched from the Tree of Holiness; the Hands, (pillars) of the Cause of God, (The Glory of the Lord rest upon them), and all the friends and loved ones, one and all to bestir themselves and arise with heart and soul and in one accord, to diffuse the sweet savors of God, to teach His Cause and to promote His Faith. It behooveth them not to rest for a moment, neither to seek repose. They must disperse themselves in every land, pass by every clime and travel throughout all regions. Bestirred, without rest and steadfast to the end they must raise in every land the triumphal cry “O Thou the Glory of Glories”! (Yá-Bahá’u’l-Abhá), must achieve renown in the world wherever they go, must burn brightly even as a candle in every meeting and must kindle the flame of Divine love in every assembly; that the light of truth may rise resplendent in the midmost heart of the world, that throughout the East and throughout the West a vast concourse may gather under the shadow of the Word of God, that the sweet savors of holiness may be diffused, that faces may shine radiantly, hearts be filled with the Divine spirit and souls be made heavenly.

“In these days, the most important of all things is the guidance of the nations and peoples of the world. Teaching the Cause is of utmost importance for it is the head corner-stone of the foundation itself. This wronged servant has spent his days and nights in promoting the Cause and urging the peoples to service. He rested not a moment,

[Page 4] till the fame of the Cause of God was noised abroad in the world and the celestial strains from the Abhá Kingdom roused the East and the West. The beloved of God must also follow the same example. This is the secret of faithfulness, this is the requirement of servitude to the Threshold of Bahá!

“The disciples of Christ forgot themselves and all earthly things, forsook all their cares and belongings, purged themselves of self and passion and with absolute detachment scattered far and wide and engaged in calling the peoples of the world to the Divine Guidance, till at last they made the world another world, illumined the surface of the earth and even to their last hour proved self-sacrificing in the pathway of that Beloved One of God. Finally in various lands they suffered glorious martyrdom. Let them that are men of action follow in their footsteps!”¹

“The promulgation of the Divine Plan, unveiled by our departed Master in the darkest days of one of the severest ordeals which humanity has ever experienced, is the key which Providence has placed in the hands of the American believers whereby to unlock the doors leading them to fulfill their unimaginably glorious Destiny. As the proclamation of the Message reverberates throughout the land, as its resistless march gathers momentum, as the field of its operation widens, and the numbers of its upholders and champions multiply, its potentialities will correspondingly unfold, exerting a most beneficient influence not only on every community throughout the Bahá’í world, but on the immediate fortunes of a travailing society. The repercussions of this campaign are already apparent in Europe, India, Egypt, Iráq and even among the sore-tried communities in Persia and Russia. The Faith of God is gaining in stature, effectiveness and power. Not until, however, the great enterprise which you are now conducting runs its full course and attains its final objective, at its appointed time, can its world-encompassing benefits be fully apprehended or revealed. The perseverance of the American believers will, no doubt, insure the ultimate realization of these benefits.”

“To the American believers, the spiritual descendants of the heroes of God’s Cause, I again address my plea to arise as one soul and to prosecute with unrelaxing resolve the high mission with which their immediate destiny is inextricably interwoven. The call has gone forth, the goal manifest and within their reach. Though their responsibilities be pressing and heavy and the obstacles formidable and manifold, yet the spirit of our invincible Faith will enable them to conquer if they arise unitedly and determinedly and persevere till the very end.”—SHOGHI EFFENDI.

_____
¹ Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

EXTENSION TEACHING BY LOCAL ASSEMBLIES

The National Teaching Committee is overjoyed to report a nation-wide movement on the part of Local Spiritual Assemblies to undertake extension teaching. Although for some years this method has been discussed as a likely one for creating new centers of Bahá’í life, never until now has it really been tried on a large scale. In the past weeks letters have poured in, telling of plans, naming prospective cities, reporting with enthusiasm new efforts made. Of one thing there can be no doubt, those Assemblies that have dared to pioneer are speedily transformed. Their rewards are an unprecedented vitality, the zest of hope in untouched horizons, the discovery of prayer as a constant guide, and that same unfailing confirmation which the Master has promised to every “fearless warrior, who armed with the power of true Knowledge, hastens unto the field ...”

But more than this, the entrance of Assemblies, of whole Bahá’í communities into the extension of the Seven-Year Plan guarantees a security in achievement, a solid, steadily-advancing growth which no onslaught can hope to obstruct or impair. If your own Assembly has not yet awakened to its part in this mighty program, perhaps the following news will arouse it. And surely these words written by Shoghi Effendi, as he defined in 1923 the structure of National and Local Assembly life, bear also on the requirements of our day most pointedly: “But let us be on our guard—so the Master continually reminds us from His Station on high—lest too much concern in that which is secondary in importance, and too long a preoccupation with the details of our affairs and activities, make us ‎neglestful neglectful‎ of the most essential, the most urgent of all our obligations, namely, to bury our cares and teach the Cause, delivering far and wide this Message of Salvation to a sorely-stricken world.”¹

The Assembly in Glendale, Arizona, has voted to sponsor pioneer work in Mesa, a Mormon community about twenty miles distant.

Los Angeles has agreed to carry forward the work begun last year by the Regional Committee in Las Vegas, Nevada. At the same time San Francisco will work in Reno, Nevada. Thus two major efforts will converge on this new State. Los Angeles has an active Extension Committee which is introducing a course of six lectures by different teachers in several nearby towns, as well as in Bakersfield, 125 miles away.

Oakland has undertaken responsibility for new contacts in Lodi, Stockton, Turlock, Modesto, Fresno and Woodlake, all cities of the San Joaquin Valley. It has also offered its help in Reno.

In the Northwest the Assemblies have assumed teaching responsibilities as follows: Monroe in Everett, Washington; Vancouver in West Vancouver and New Westminster; Seattle in Tacoma; Spokane in Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint, Idaho; Portland, in a circuit of Oregon cities including Salem, Eugene, and Medford. In this area the Regional Committee is cooperating with Assemblies in coordinating, routing, and maintaining up-to-date information on available teachers. It has been suggested that local teaching programs be so planned that speakers may also work in outside territory, wherever possible on circuits, as this has proved the most promising way of making new contacts.

Oklahoma City will extend its work to El Reno, about twenty-five miles away. The believers here have been thrilled at an astonishing development of Esperanto classes, and by cooperating on committees have made many new and liberal friends. Esperanto is now being taught not only in eight city districts, but in outlying cities such as El Reno, Edmond, and Shawnee.

Detroit has begun weekly study groups in Grosse Pointe and Dearborn, and has plans for Highland Park. Detroit has likewise emphasized cooperation with the Esperanto Society, as a follow-up of Miss Zamenhof’s visit.

Miami, Florida, is discussing extension work with much interest, with definite plans expected soon. Weekly public meetings have been greatly stimulated

_____
¹ Bahá’í Administration, p. 37.

[Page 5] by a display of the Temple model.

St. Paul, Minn., is sponsoring extension work in Hudson and Eau Claire, Wisconsin. The friends are also helping the new Group in Duluth.

Toronto has arranged a series of twice-monthly public meetings in Hamilton, Ontario. Speakers during October were Marzieh Carpenter and Mabel Ives.

Lima has an Extension Committee of thirteen, now at work in Wapakoneta, Van Wert, Celina, Montezuma, Delphos, and Bluffton. The following suggestions from the chairman, Mrs. Kepfer, will assist us all: The members place their chief reliance upon prayer, using the Teaching Tablets, the Tablet of Ahmad, and prayers for guidance at every meeting and during contacts by co-members. Calls are made upon new contacts frequently, and a record is kept noting the reactions. Pamphlets are sometimes left with the offer to return to discuss them. The new friends are invited to public and fireside meetings in Lima, are referred to their local libraries for books, and speakers are provided for their various clubs. According to the Committee, the spirit of faith which animates them is their most important technique. Another interesting note from Lima tells of the “Bahá’í School of the Air,” a daily morning radio program in the form of questions and answers designed to interest the average person.

There is a variety of other notable news from Assemblies. One of the most stimulating reports has come from New Haven, where “many events have conspired to turn an ineffectual, lukewarm community into a virile, awakened, inspired group....” Again the real secret is prayer. The 1938-39 teaching program is all-inclusive, with its study classes, fireside and youth groups, and public meetings. Extension work by fireside teaching is carried on in Milford, Washington, Wallingford, Norwich, and Waterbury. It is New Haven’s goal to have nine functioning Assemblies or Groups in Connecticut by 1944! The community is also active in its association with non-Bahá’í organizations, an especially fruitful contact having been made at an interfaith discussion at the Jewish Community Center. The celebration of Ridvan also demands mention. During each day of this period a gathering was held in a different home, each host inviting his own guests and arranging his own program. Much diversity resulted, including a Persian dinner, a memorial for the Holy Mother, reading of the Creative Word with recordings of Wagner’s “Parsifal,” original poetry, etc. Another interesting meeting was a talk on the early history of the Faith in New Haven, by the chairman of the Archives Committee. The proof of vitality is growth: in the past year nine new believers have enrolled and two have been re-instated!

CABLEGRAM FROM THE GUARDIAN The following message was received after the Guardian had been informed that the contract for models of first story had been placed. “Inexpressible gratitude most welcome news. Deepest love.”—SHOGHI.

Springfield, Ill., has written enthusiastically of a month’s visit from Marguerite Reimer, during September and October. Three radio broadcasts were given, four public talks, and a lecture for a negro Forum. Miss Reimer also met twice a week with the believers, giving valuable teaching suggestions.

Cincinnati has developed many fine contacts this past year through public and fireside meetings scheduled for visiting teachers. These have included Mrs. Dorothy Baker, Mrs. Margery McCormick, Mrs. Louise Caswell, Mrs. Grace Ober, Mr. Louis Gregory and Mr. Harlan Ober. A study class has been formed which promises a bright future.

Pasadena, Calif., is experiencing a rebirth as a result of community prayer. Three weekly study classes are now conducted for inquirers; a monthly public meeting is fast growing in attendance; three new members have been accepted; and on December 3rd a wonderful Amity Dinner was given, the full account of which has not yet reached us. This Assembly also hopes to begin extension work soon.

Springfield, Mass., has reported the visit of Mrs. Amelia Collins, who spent some time in Paxton. A guest at one meeting was the daughter of Edward Bellamy. Various other informal groups met with Mrs. Collins at Monson, Three Rivers, and Paxton, and many new friends were introduced to the Cause from these and other nearby cities.

A comprehensive report from Binghamton, N. Y., for August and September brings news of this Assembly’s far-flung interests. Binghamton believers are assisting in Scranton, Syracuse, Ithaca, and Norwich. Six have enrolled during this period and others are studying, with new classes also for teen-age girls and children. The most interesting activity was the Bahá’í participation in the World Congress of Youth held at Vassar College, August 16th-23rd. Miss Ida Noyes, Binghamton’s youth chairman, spent the entire week, as did Mrs. Frances Stewart of Utica, who was hostees for the South American delegation. A Temple model was displayed and over 3,000 pieces of literature were distributed. President and Mrs. MacCracken of Vassar became acquainted with the Faith, Mrs. Roosevelt inspected the Temple model, Professor Howson of the Department of Religion asked for a picture of the Temple to be hung in the Vassar Library, and books are to be sent also. Several other Bahá’ís from Binghamton and New York City visited the conference, and two informal discussion groups were held. One of the guests was a Chinese girl, the “heroine of Shanghai.”

Bahá’í participation in the Canadian National Exhibition was also most noteworthy. This Exhibition, from August 26th to September 10th, is the world’s largest annual one and this year it had a record attendance. With the help of Montreal and Toronto, a beautiful exhibit of the Temple was arranged (photograph in December issue), designed by Mr. W. S. Maxwell. About 5,000 pieces of literature were given to visitors from as far afield as South Africa. It is hoped that this effort will result in increased Bahá’í activity throughout Canada.

In Michigan exceptional work is being done by Marzieh Carpenter and the Eggelstons. Contacts have been made in eleven cities and Mrs. Carpenter has spoken before thirty-two groups, including Rotary, Kiwanis, Shrine, Exchange, Women’s, Church, and school groups.

Eighty-eight Bahá’ís from sixteen communities of California and Arizona met in a Regional Conference at Bakersfield, California, on the weekend of October 15th-16th. The activities included a tea for new people; two radio talks; a teaching conference on “Pioneer Teaching in the Seven-Year Plan”; a Bahá’í luncheon in the open air; and a public meeting Sunday afternoon, when Mrs. Beulah Lewis and Mr. Leroy Ioas spoke on “A Bahá’í Interpretation of World Crisis.” The teaching conference has led to a remarkable impetus in spirit and extension work, in those communities which sent delegates. All were happy at the following cable from Shoghi Effendi, in reply to a conference greeting: “Appreciate

[Page 6] message. Praying complete realization highest hopes.”

The San Joaquin Valley was also visited during August by Miss Claudia Coles Aldridge of London, England, who spoke four times at fireside groups in Bakersfield, on the radio there, and in Fresno, Woodlake, Three Rivers, and Atascadero.

The reports from our smaller Groups and pioneer areas and teachers are as brimful of good news as all of the others. There Groups have recently organized in Bexley and Circleville, Ohio, and in Marysville, Michigan. The Marysville and Port Huron Bahá’ís have sponsored four radio broadcasts since spring, with Allen McDaniel, Harlan Ober, and Marzieh Carpenter as speakers. They also arranged a two-week exhibit of the Temple model in three business localities, and during this time an article was prepared on the Temple which was read over the local radio station. In Jamestown, N. Y., there are six registered believers. Recently a talk was sponsored on the practical function of religion in the life of a business man, to which business acquaintances were invited. The Group in Three Rivers, Mass., now has a children’s study class.

Knoxville, Tenn., plans to form an Assembly next April. All Feasts and anniversaries are observed, several regular classes and meetings are held, and a fine stimulus was gained as a result of the National Spiritual Assembly meeting there. Recent Bahá’í visitors have included Mme. Orlova, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Warner, and Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Sparr of Lima. Mrs. Caswell writes, “We are beginning to get the lively spirit of the Cause here. The believers are beginning to come into a new radiance and we now have a nucleus on which to base our work.”

A pioneer campaign was carried on by Mrs. Gertrude Struven and Mrs. Gayle Woolson in the tri-city area of Davenport, Iowa; Moline and Rock Island, Illinois, from November 6th to 24th. After a public meeting a study group was formed, which will be continued by the two local Bahá’ís; five radio talks were given; a club of young working girls invited a speaker, and many contacts were made for future club dates. These pioneer teachers report that “with two working together in perfect harmony, it seems as though we had done more than double work ...”

Exceptional results have been obtained by Mrs. Leonard King (Sylvia Matteson) in Winnipeg, Manitoba, during her two visits there in June and July and in September and October.

NOTICE TO GROUPS All groups planning to form a Spiritual Assembly on April 21 are requested to report their intention to the National Spiritual Assembly by February first, in order to allow time for the National Assembly to discharge its responsibility in preparing the group. Some years ago a letter received from Haifa stated that “Shoghi Effendi feels that in any locality where the number of adult declared believers reaches nine, a local Assembly should be established. He feels this to be an obligation rather than a purely voluntary act.”

A contact with the Phoenix Club, a liberal group, opened many doors. Weekly meetings with an attendance of twenty to fifty persons were held at the Marlborough Hotel and the Winnipeg Free-Press gave much space for publicity. There were also engagements at various clubs, with invitations for the Spring. Mrs. King met several people who had contacted the Cause in other cities. A Jewish rabbi had heard of it in Buffalo, a newspaper man in Cleveland; three Junior College teachers had known Mrs. Ives in Moncton; an Esperanto teacher had met Bahá’ís in Minneapolis. Study classes will be carried on by Miss Lillian Tomlinson, who already has motored with several friends to visit the Temple, and a loan library is established at her home. There are also Bahá’í books at the Phoenix Club and in the Metaphysical Library.

Mrs. Loulie Mathews recently spent three weeks with Mrs. R. D. Little in Covington, La., during which time two intensive study classes were carried on and several talks were given. A lovely gift was made by Mrs. Mathews of a Fellowship House, to be used not only by the Bahá’ís but as a Community Center. The building was dedicated on the anniversary of the Ascension of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Mrs. Little writes: “Although the little house seems very unimportant in size we all feel that it is destined to achieve great things. It will supply a great need and will through this make it possible to promote and demonstrate the Bahá’í teachings. All are deeply touched....”

The Group in Albuquerque, N. M., has reported its activities at the New Mexico State Fair, October 9th to 16th, in connection with an exhibit of the Temple model. One believer was in constant attendance and hundreds of registrations were obtained, which are being catalogued for future work. Two thousand picture postcards of the Temple were given and on Children’s Day each child received one. Many of the visitors spoke of having seen the Temple in Wilmette. The friends report that the Fair was attended by many who had spent their lives in isolated ranch and mountain homes, and also by those of varied racial groups, such as Spaniards, Mexicans, Indians, and Negroes. These were delighted with the universal viewpoint of the Faith and accepted literature with gratitude. Buffet suppers are now being held for those newly-interested, and the believers report a great stimulation to their work since the Fair. Surely these few Bahá’ís have won the admiration of us all with their real sacrifice of time and means.

Other new areas have their pioneer teachers. In Huntington, West Virginia, Harold Hunt of Washington, D. C., has found employment and is making many fine contacts. Speaking engagements have been arranged for Stanwood Cobb at the International Club of Marshall College and the YMCA Forum. Mr. Hunt was also able to introduce the Faith to Commander Hughes of the U.S.S. Panay. Miss Nayan Hartfield has been working in Greenwood, Miss., with an isolated believer, Mrs. Bivins. During October new contacts were made in Little Rock, Ark., by Mrs. Iva Smack of Muskegon, during a short visit. The Teaching Committee has also received advice that Miss Rezi Sunshine has returned to Arkansas. In Fort Sam Houston, Texas, a weekly study class is held, according to Mr. H. R. Hurlbut.

A teaching trip through Ohio was made by Charles Mason Remey in October. He also spent several days in Urbana, speaking four times at the University of Illinois, and for the first public meeting to be arranged in Danville, a city in which Urbana has begun extension teaching.

Mrs. Ruth Moffett was scheduled on the Ohio-Pennsylvania circuit in October, when five new study groups were formed. In August she made forty-two talks in Eagle River, Wis., leading to a study class of about twenty-five persons of great capacity. Classes were also held for ten days on the Puza Estate, outside of Eagle River, which was dedicated as a future Bahá’í Summer School.

An extensive trip through the Southern States was made by James Stone, Jr., of Tenafly, N. J., in connection

[Page 7] with his business, from July to September. During his short trip in each city Mr. Stone attempted to locate the isolated believers, traced through the libraries those who had read Bahá’í books, and developed many new contacts. His report will greatly assist in future plans for these undeveloped areas.

Lorrol Jackson is now in Butte, Montana, holding weekly study classes and assisting an Esperanto group of young people. She forwarded in October the registration of Irene Caldwell, age seventeen, who has been reared in the Faith.

Beatrice Irwin writes from London, where she arrived on August 14th, that she spoke about the Temple during a television broadcast arranged by the British Broadcasting Company.

This account by no means completes the important and exciting news on hand. Especially the splendid organization of our Regional Committee will have to be considered in a later review. But enough has been related to thrill us all with the movement alive in the Cause, as it advances in its quest for the men and women of the future. Potential world citizens: America is filled with them! We have only to be diligent and faithful in the search, and Bahá’u’lláh Himself will surely guide us.

NATIONAL TEACHING COMMITTEE.

“DRAW NIGH UNTO BAHA’U’LLAH”

“ ‘Supreme ascendency is to be attributed, this Day, to none except God, He Who hath no peer nor equal, Who is the Most Powerful, the All-Subduing!’ ”—Gleanings, pg. 36.

“Should any created thing lay claim to any existence, when confronted with the infinite wonders of Thy Revelation, so blasphemous a pretension would be more heinous than any other crime in all the domains of Thine invention and creation.” Prayers and Meditations, pg. 133.

“Thou art, O my God and the Exultation of my heart, the One Who hath adorned Thy Tablet, of which none is aware except Thee, with the mention of this Day which Thou didst call after Thy name, that haply none may on that day be seen save Thy most august Self, and naught else be brought to mind except Thy most sweet remembrance.” Prayers and Meditations, pg. 277.

“This is the Day, O my Lord, which Thou didst announce unto all mankind as the Day whereon Thou wouldst reveal Thy Self, and shed Thy radiance, and shine brightly over all Thy creatures.” Prayers and Meditations, pg. 275.

“This is the Day whereon naught can be seen except the splendors of the Light that shineth from the face of Thy Lord, the Gracious, the Most Bountiful.” Gleanings, pg. 29.

“Deny not Thy loved ones, O my Lord, the sweet savors of this Day whereon the mysteries of Thy name, the Self-Subsisting, were unraveled, and all that had been enshrined within the treasuries of Thy wisdom was revealed. This is the Day, O my Lord, whereon every atom of the earth hath been made to vibrate and to cry out: ‘O Thou Who Art the Revealer of signs and the King of Creation! I, verily, perceive the fragrance of Thy presence. Methinks Thou has revealed Thyself, and unlocked the door of reunion with Thee before all who are in Thy heavens and all who are on Thy earth.” Prayers and Meditations, pg. 279.

“Canst thou discover any one but Me, O Pen, in this Day? ... Lo, the entire creation hath passed away! Nothing remaineth except My Face, the Ever-Abiding, the Resplendent, the All-Glorious.” Gleanings, pg. 29.

---

ENROLLMENTS AND TRANSFERS

Seattle, eight. Urbana, one. Nashville, one. Portland, one. Buffalo, three. New York, four. Spokane, three. Los Angeles, one. Eliot, one. Glendale, Calif., one. Augusta, three. Rochester, one. Toronto, seven.

---

IN MEMORIAM

Death proffereth unto every confident believer the cup that is life indeed. It bestoweth joy, and is the bearer of gladness. It confereth the gift of everlasting life.—BAHÁ’U’LLÁH.

Mr. Mark Grass, Omaha.

Mr. Edward Angell, Atlanta, Mich.

Mrs. Nettie L. Napier, Nashville.

Mrs. E. B. Zimmermann, Milwaukee.

Mrs. Anna Eliza Ripley, Milwaukee.

Mr. J. F. Blazek, Sr., San Francisco.

---

ASSEMBLY ROLL

Eliot, Maine. Until further notice, address communications to Mrs. Lionel Loveday, Acting Secretary.

Toronto, Ont. New Secretary, Miss Elsa Beecroft, 443 Jarvis Street.

---

COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS

Index

Bishop Brown, Chairman, P. O. Box 9, Ingomar, Pa.

Miss Alice N. Parker

Mrs. Ruth Randall Brown

Kenneth Chapin

Library

Appointment of another Officer:

Mrs. S. H. Sims, Secretary, Leroy Apartments, Red Bank, N. J.

Child Education

Mrs. Robert Lewis added to committee.

New England Regional Teaching

Mrs. H. Chamberlain added to committee.

---

CHILD EDUCATION

Five outlines have been prepared and reviewed for the teaching and training of children in study classes and in the home. One of these, “To Live the Life,” is now available in mimeographed form, and deals with the code of life as given by the Master. These twenty-four lessons are adapted to children of ages 7 to 10, or more. Each lesson includes an introduction to the lesson, a story from scriptures or accepted Bahá’í sources, and memory passages from the Words of Bahá’u’lláh. Each lesson is prepared in two sheets, attractively designed in the outline of the House of Worship, and is

BAHÁ’Í EXHIBIT AT NEW MEXICO STATE FAIR

[Page 8] so arranged as to make a complete book of 48 pages for each child when the course has been completed. When ordering, ask for one complete set for each child in the group, price 20c per set. Suggestions for the teacher will be included without extra charge and without special mention. The committee requests that the complete order be sent at one time whenever possible in order to effect a saving in postage. The twenty cent rate includes postage. Address orders to the secretary, Miss Elcore Georgenson, 615 W. Elm St., Lima, Ohio.

Four more outlines are in the making and notices will appear when they are ready for distribution. They will cover the following subjects:

Bahá’í Principles; 12 lessons, adapted to all ages.

Bahá’í Founders; 18 lessons, ages 9 to 15.

Dawn Breakers; 12 lessons, ages 7 to 12.

Creation; 15 lessons, ages 5 and 6.

A column in BAHÁ’Í NEWS entitled: “For Parents and Teachers” has been provided for use by the Child Education Committee. The friends are invited to contribute freely to this department.

DOROTHY BAKER, Chairman

ELCORE GEORGENSON, Secretary.

---

SUMMER SCHOOLS

Green Acre

The following courses will be given during the 1939 season. The teachers will be announced next month.

Islám; The Meaning of Life; Positive Living; The Dawn-Breakers; The Seven Valleys; Some Answered Questions; Administration; Humanity’s Coming of Age; A Laboratory Course on Teaching.

There will be two teachers each week, morning courses, with afternoons free for study, and interesting lectures, panel discussions, open forum group, etc., in the evenings.

The summer school will run for nine weeks. Youth week comes July 24-29, and is under the direction of the Youth Week Committee.

The Green Acre Committee is making a special effort to have plenty of activity over the weekends, and to make the Sunday meetings a magnet to interest new friends from nearby towns and cities.

Louhelen

Preliminary Announcement (subject to change)

First Youth Session, June 24-29

Morning

1. Character: a sequence in a spiritual psychology

   (Bahá’í standards of conduct)

   Miss Flora Hottes of Kenosha

2. 1. The promise of All Ages

      (Bahá’í Principles and History)

      Rinaldo Quigley of New York (proposed)

   2. The Prophet of Arabia.

      (Facts about Muhammad and His Teachings)

      M. N. Firouzi of Geneva, N.Y.

   Afternoon

3. Laws of Bahá’u’lláh

   (Social as distinguished from spiritual Laws)

   Clarence Niss of Milwaukee.

The above courses to continue through four days. The fifth day to be given over to a forum conducted by Mr. Niss on the subject Building Community Life. This is designed to introduce young people to Bahá’í Administration and to awaken the consciousness of the privilege and meaning of becoming citizens of the World Community of the Most Great Name.

Laboratory Session, July 1-11

Morning

1. 9-11 Applied Administration
   (Actual practice in selecting a Local Assembly, appointed committees of which will do publicity and contact work in neighboring towns, hold a Nineteen Day Feast, arrange a public meeting; also conduct an annual convention and deal with other typical administrative problems. This is an opportunity for obtaining a deeper understanding of both the spirit and application of Bahá’í Administration and for establishing a closer link between Local and National Assemblies.) To be in charge of N. S. A. and conducted by one of their members appointed by the N. S. A.
2. 11-12 Study
Afternoon
3. 1:30-3:00 The Three Worlds

   (Research in Bahá’í Teachings)

   Teacher to be announced.

4. 4:00-5:30 Public Speaking

   Mrs. Maude Beagle of Flint.

General Session, August 6-13

Morning

1. The Administrative Order of Bahá’u’lláh

   Teacher to be announced.

2. Islamic Culture and Religion

   Mrs. Helen Bishop (proposed )

3. The Art of Living (As illustrated by lives of historic Bahá’ís.)

   Mrs. Alice Bacon of Monson, Mass. (proposed)

   Afternoon
4. What is the Bahá’í Faith?

   (a series of talks on phases various of the Faith)

   Albert Windust of Chicago (proposed)

Second Youth Session, August 16-20

(Titles of courses as in first youth session, above)

Proposed teachers—

1. Mrs. Virginia Camelon, Wilmette
2. 1. Robert Gaines of Urbana, Illinois
   2. Mrs. Helen Bishop of San Francisco
3. Carl Scheffler, of Evanston, Illinois

---

PUBLISHING ANNOUNCEMENTS

Bahá’í Scriptures—After the last few copies are sold, no more of the book in its present form will be available, as the Guardian wishes certain alterations to be made before a new edition is printed.

Portals of Freedom, by Howard C. Ives—less than 100 copies of this book are on hand, and friends wishing it are urged to send orders immediately. Per copy, $2.25.

Táhirih The Pure, by Martha L. Root—A study of the great Bahá’í heroine by one who has traveled to the places in Iran which are consecrated to her memory. Miss Root’s book was completed in India and published in that country. Per copy, paper covers, $0.50; cloth binding, $0.75.

---

INTER-AMERICA COMMITTEE

Mrs. Francis Benedict Stewart has arrived in Buenos Aires, South America and has begun her arduous labors as a Bahá’í teacher in Latin America. The Inter-America Committee wishes to share with all the friends extracts from her first two letters:

“My heart knows that next April 21st a Spiritual Assembly will be formed here. I only had to suggest that I had come to make plans to bring the people together to teach the Bahá’í Faith, the response was immediate. They are arranging that I may have an exhibit of Bahá’í literature. A very fine man has been elected President with many liberals about him, I have an introduction to him as well as to many of the foremost educators.”

“Last week I addressed six different groups, besides having countless personal interviews. This week has been glorious! A group of well known men in the field of science and education invited me to address them and all are

[Page 9] TEMPLE MODEL IN FLORIST SHOP AT PORT HURON

clamoring for the books. A well known astronomer spent an evening fascinated with the cycle of manifestation and the evolution of civilization. I have appointments for every hour of next week as I am gathering together those who have expressed the desire for deeper study and from this we shall bring forth our permanent group I feel sure.”

LOULIE A. MATHEWS, Chairman.

---

YOUTH STUDY DAYS

The third Outline in the series prepared for the Youth Study Days is as follows:—

The Five Aspects of Spirit

Preliminary Questions—

1. Is there any difference between your soul, mind, and spirit?
2. How is one aware of spirit?

Review Questions—

1. What are the five divisions of the spirit? Describe them. What are the differences between them?

The Divinity Can Only Be Comprehended Through the Divine Manifestations.

Preliminary Questions—

1. Can we know God?
2. What do Bahá’ís believe about divinity?
3. Why is it necessary to have prophets of manifestations come to mankind?

Review Questions—

1. Can we comprehend God? Why?
2. What is the only way we can learn about God?
3. How does the Bahá’í belief about divinity differ from Anthropomorphism?

The Three Stations of the Divine Manifestations.

Preliminary Questions—

1. Are some prophets of manifestations greater than others?
2. What is the difference between a manifestation and an ordinary man?
3. Have there always been manifestations?
4. Does a manifestation die like other men?

Review Questions—

1. What are the three stations of divine manifestations?
2. Does God think in terms of time?

The Human Conditions and the Spiritual Condition of the Divine Manifestation.

Preliminary Questions—

1. Do manifestations have distinct personalities as mankind does?
2. Are manifestations different from other people throughout their lives?

Review Questions—

1. How can a manifestation be compared to a mirror?
2. Is the spirit affected by hardship?

The Knowledge of the Divine Manifestations.

Preliminary Questions*

1. Is the knowledge of a manifestation limited?
2. How do they get their knowledge?
3. Why must the manifestation have knowledge of all things?

Review Questions—

1. What are the two kinds of knowledge?
2. What are the differences between them?
3. Why must the manifestation have knowledge of the realities of all things?

The Universal Cycles.

Preliminary Questions—

1. What are cycles? What causes them? How often does a new cycle begin?
2. How old is the world?
3. What happens to people who lived in cycles past?

Review Questions—

1. Explain the meaning of cycles?
2. What is the relationship between a cycle and a manifestation?
3. What has happened to past cycles?
4. What cycles are we in now?

The Power and Influence of the Divine Manifestations.

Preliminary Questions—

1. Of what importance is a manifestation in the daily life of man?
2. What causes mankind to be more enlightened at some times than at others?

Review Questions—

1. What causes the enlightenment of mankind?
2. How can one compare the appearance of a manifestation to the coming of spring?

The Two Classes of Prophets

Preliminary Questions—

1. Is one prophet as great as another?
2. Why is it necessary to have religion renewed?

Review Questions—

1. What are the two kinds of prophets?
2. To what category do Buddha and Confucius belong?
3. What is the relationship between the two kinds of prophets?
4. Why must religion be renewed?

Explanation of the Rebukes Addressed by God to the Prophets

Preliminary Questions—

1. In the Bible and other holy books we read rebukes addressed to the prophets. Since they are our inspirations to whom we are to look for guidance, why is this?
2. The prophets are supposed to be faultless, yet they often confess their sins and faults—why?

Review Questions—

1. Why does God address rebukes to the prophets?
2. For whom are these rebukes meant?
3. Does a manifestation have faults?

Explanation of the Verse of the Kitabu’l-Aqdás, “There is no associate for

[Page 10] the Dawning-place of command in the Supreme Sinlessness.”

Preliminary questions—

1. Explain sinlessness.
2. Are the manifestations free from sin?
3. Can a human being become sinless?

Review Questions—

1. What are the two kinds of sinlessness? Explain them.
2. What body besides the manifestation may have essential sinlessness?
3. What is the meaning of “He does what He wishes”?

---

INTERNATIONAL AUXILIARY LANGUAGE COMMITTEE

Although the report of Miss Zamenhof’s work in Cleveland has not been sent in yet and for this reason a final report on that phase of the activity of this Committee cannot be made, we have something of real interest to report which took place during her last days in America.

Miss Zamenhof arrived in New York, November 15 and was here for two weeks awaiting the sailing of her steamer for Poland. During the second week of her stay she addressed the first meeting arranged by the Brooklyn Teaching Committee, to which the Esperantists of that Borough were invited. They responded so well and showed such interest and attraction that this Committee wish to bring it to the attention of the Bahá’ís; as it implies, that now is the time for us to interest the Esperantists in the Bahá’í Faith. They were more receptive than formerly, and this is due undoubtedly to Miss Zamenhof’s devoted and self-sacrificing service during the last year. Now, while this condition exists, is the time to contact them. And very fortunately, an occasion has just arisen by which the Bahá’ís can not only contact the Esperantists but also reach entire strangers by means of classes in this auxiliary language.

They have been filming in Hollywood a play in which the Lunts appeared on Broadway about two years ago, called ‘Idiot’s Delight.’ To avoid a difficulty which would have prevented the film’s being shown in one of the European countries, parts of this film are spoken in Esperanto and the scene transferred to a mythical country. Clark Gable and Norma Shearer are the stars. Any one will readily appreciate the publicity that this will give to Esperanto and the large number of strangers that one can attract to a class advertised in a local paper. To have this happen just at the moment when the Esperantists themselves are showing

BAHÁ’Í FELLOWSHIP HOUSE, COVINGTON, LOUISIANA

interest in our Faith, cannot be a coincidence. It must be the “Assistance of the Blessed Perfection.” Such an opportunity will not come our way again; an opportunity which can be used in the smallest town as well as in the largest city. Where there are Esperantists in a city, they will be glad to cooperate by teaching the class. Where there is none, it is a simple matter for a Bahá’í to teach the class by studying a lesson or two ahead of the students. An easy textbook can be bought from the Esperanto Association in Washington, for 20c each, with a reduction for an order of 20 books.

Another opening which the Committee would urge the Bahá’ís to use through Esperanto, is the Youth Hostel Movement. It originated in Germany over twenty years ago, but is not more than five years old in this country. It is growing rapidly and has a definite need of members who can speak Esperanto. Any young person who can speak it who became a member would be considered a definite asset and welcomed accordingly. Because of the small numbers of Esperantists in America, none of them young with the exception of the Cleveland members, this need cannot be met by them. Which leaves the field clear for the Bahá’ís. It is needless to stress the value of this opportunity for our young people who wish to spread the Cause, not alone in our own country but in Europe as well. The headquarters of this movement are in Northampton, Mass., if you wish to get in touch with them.

Bahá’ís will find that the people who join their Esperanto classes in turn belong to other groups and societies, with whom contacts can be made. For instance, the Quakers and International Rotary endorse Esperanto. In Boston, when the Esperantists observed the birthday of Dr. Zamenhof, the Bahá’ís cooperated with them, and Dr. Ali-Kuli Khan was the principal speaker on the program. One of the younger Esperantists, who is president of a Portuguese organization consisting of fifty persons, has asked that Dr. Khan come and speak to them.

Certainly, “This is the Day whereon naught can be seen except the splendors of the Light that shineth from the face of thy Lord, the Gracious, the Most Bountiful.”

DELLA C. QUINLAN, Chairman.

---

THE SONG CELESTIAL

Letter from the Guardian

With Shoghi Effendi’s consent is published this excerpt from his letter to Mr. Howard Colby Ives dated June 30, 1939:—

“The announcement of the forthcoming publication of The Song Celestial

[Page 11] has rejoiced and refreshed the heart of our beloved Guardian. He fervently hopes that this latest production of your able pen will bring wide response from the believers, and that they will cooperate in giving it the publicity it truly deserves, and thus help it realize the purpose for which it has been written, namely, to introduce the Faith through the presentation of the Teachings in an attractively artistic form.”

---

MEETING AND CONFERENCE AT URBANA

The December meeting of the National Spiritual Assembly included a public meeting, luncheon with the Spiritual Assembly and a regional Conference representing friends from a large number of centers.

The public meeting, held in a parlor of the Woman’s Building, University of Illinois, was arranged by the Bahá’í Youth Group of the University. The speakers were introduced by Miss Sweeney, an undergraduate. Allen B. McDaniel presided, Harlan Ober spoke on The Spiritual Remedy for World Strife, and Horace Holley on World Community: A New Creation. Beautiful and appropriate music was contributed by Sol Cohen and Julius Cohen.

Mrs. Marjory McCormick presided at the Conference Sunday afternoon, which concluded with a buffet supper. About seventy Bahá’ís were present, representing the following cities: Urbana, Chicago, Milwaukee, Kenosha, Peoria, Wilmette, Winnetka, Springfield, Detroit, Washington, Boston, Montreal, Dubuque, Los Angeles, West Englewood, New York. Twenty-five different believers spoke briefly on some subject provided in the agenda, which is evidence of the true spirit of consultation.

---

BAHA’I FELLOWSHIP HOUSE

At Covington

From Mrs. Loulie Mathews comes the following graphic report on the establishment of a public meeting place devised to accomplish a difficult teaching task in a prejudiced environment.

Covington, Louisiana, is a small city seventy-five miles from New Orleans. Marion Little makes her home there and there is no group or Assembly in the state and in order to have a focal point from which to spread the teachings, it was decided to establish a small community house here in order to make a practical demonstration of Bahá’í ideals.

An old unused shop standing at the entrance of St. Paul’s College was leased very inexpensively. A wooded tract bordered by a small stream made a natural boundary line; it was dilapidated but not irredeemable, so we went to work painting and planting and raking while a fireplace, pantry and a tight roof were built by a local carpenter. Long steps were placed at the entrance so that in summer with the doors open the meetings could take place under the trees.

The newspapers gladly ran articles describing it and praising the enterprise, but they refused to use the word “Bahá’í” as this section of the country is dominated by clergy and they did not think it a wise move. On December 10, 1938, it was completed and invitations to the dedication were sent to all the ministers and priests as well as to the people.

As Marion Little is well known and looked up to by all the various religious bodies, she was elected as chairman. The name of “Fellowship” according to the Bahá’í use of the word was explained and the quotation which inspired it was read: “Consort with all the people with love and fragrance for fellowship is the cause of unity and unity is the source of order in the world.” The twelve Bahá’í principles followed, with a short explanation of each.

Then the Mayor of the city was introduced. He graciously thanked us for our gift to Covington of such a center and recommended all citizens to help make it a success.

There followed a splendid address by Mr. Pitcher, the superintendent of schools. He stressed the need in every community of such a center actuated by the Bahá’í spirit and said that he had caught a little of its fire. Miss Olga Kaufmann, a moving spirit in the Theosophic group, read the golden rule as given down the ages. Mrs. Anna Smith, a former teacher of Latin in the high schools and a believer, read a paper showing the trend towards universality in many centers today, the coming of age of the people and supported her conclusions with many quotations from the Bahá’í writings. In closing Loulie Mathews spoke on the differences between the ideals of fellowship in the new day, and those to which we were accustomed, the depth of insight that must be used to bring a spiritual amalgamation about, and read from The Bahá’í World Mr. Holley’s article, a portion of which was printed in the St. Tammany’s Farmer. Mrs. Ellis, well known as lecturer and teacher, and who has come into the Faith, read ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s prayer for the Americas.

About sixty attended and all expressed enthusiasm for the project and entered into the spirit, differences were laid aside and a spirit of fellowship appeared among those present.

Bahá’í meetings and classes have been arranged and the rooms have been offered to other groups. It is hoped that all the friends will pray that it may be the means of attracting the people of the state of Louisiana and bringing to them the knowledge of the future World Order of Bahá’u’lláh.

---

NEWS ITEMS

The National Assembly requests believers who send in copies of letters received from the Guardian to submit also a copy of their letter to him.

The Nineteen Day Feast falling on December 31 was this year observed by the New York Bahá’í Community from 9 P. M. to midnight. Following the program of readings and the consultation, a buffet supper was served until eleven-thirty, when the moving picture film of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá was shown, His voice record played, and the meeting ended with prayers.

An interested group was gathered together by Orcella Rexford at Wilmington, Delaware, a few months ago, and a study class organized which has been conducted by Mrs. Huff of Philadelphia.

The Spiritual Assembly of Yonkers has arranged to have one of the believers listed in the telephone directory under “Bahá’í” as well as under the believer’s personal name, thus enabling traveling believers and interested local persons to make contact readily with the Faith. The general question of a permanent local address for Bahá’í correspondence is still unsolved in the majority of communities. It is hoped that each Assembly will make effort to establish some address not subject to frequent alteration as secretaries move or new officers are elected.

Local Assemblies are requested to notify the National Teaching Committee which members of the community reside in nearby towns. This information will enable the Committee to develop helpful plans and suggestions for the extension of Assembly teaching. The data is helpful also in connection with the election of new Assemblies where nine or more Bahá’ís, now voting members of a community, reside outside its civil limits.

From Mr. Ouskoulie, our Bahá’í brother of Shanghai, has come some copies of a leaflet he has prepared containing an “Equation of Bahá’í and Gregorian Calendar” with explanatory text. He is also distributing the pamphlet

[Page 12] “Some Principles of the Bahá’í Faith,” and this teaching work will have the loving prayers and best wishes of all the friends.

---

ACTIVITIES IN THE BRITISH ISLES

Teaching Report

In accordance with the plan made by the N.S.A. at the beginning of the year, teaching has been arranged in Bradford and Torquay. In Bradford, Mr. Norton has given a room in his warehouse for Bahá’í meetings, and several have already been held. The plan is for a teacher to go there every two weeks. The Manchester Spiritual Assembly will send one every month and the N.S.A. will do the same. In Torquay Mrs. Stevens is holding meetings, and will be assisted by Mrs. Slade for a short while in November. The secretary of the N.S.A. recently visited Manchester, Bradford, Torquay (where an address was given to the Psychology Club) and Brighton. An invitation has been received to present the Faith to the Bournemouth Psychology Club.

The London Spiritual Assembly has appointed regional teaching groups to work in their own districts, and several fireside meetings are held regularly. Four new believers have been declared.

In Manchester new people are coming to the meetings, and the children’s class on Sundays is very popular. Three new believers have been declared.

Three new believers were declared at Summer School, and we take this opportunity of welcoming them. They were Mrs. Ward of Torquay, Mrs. Rosalind Vance of Sowberry Court, and Miss Bonney of London.

Summer School, 1939

The following plans have already been made for next year’s Summer School. The date is July 22nd to August 12th, and the place is High Leigh, Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire, about thirty miles north of London. A prospectus and full programme will be published later, but in the meantime the friends are urged to try and come during the bank holiday week-end, as we have to guarantee an attendance of fifty during that period. The rates are eight shillings per day inclusive, and there are plenty of single rooms available.

A Bahá’í Newspaper

The National Spiritual Assembly has approved plans for the publication of a monthly newspaper. It will be called The New World Order and a design for the front page has been made by Mr. Donald Millar. It will be sold for threepence per copy or an annual subscription of three and sixpence including postage. The paper is chiefly a means of contact and publicity, and the first number will be sent to five thousand people. It will contain an editorial, short articles, quotations from the Bahá’í Writings, excerpts from current speeches and other material which will help to create a body of opinion in favor of the universal principles of Bahá’u’lláh. It is intended to follow up the contacts which will be established by those people who respond to the first number.