Bahá’í News/Issue 136/Text
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| No. 136 | YEAR 97, BAHÁ’Í ERA | June, 1940 |
“THE AMERICAN BELIEVERS ... PURSUE THEIR GOD-GIVEN TASK”[edit]
Letter from Shoghi Effendi[edit]
Dear co-workers:
The fourth year of the seven Year Plan enters upon its course in circumstances that are at once critical, challenging, and unprecedented in their significance. The year that has passed has in so far as the rise and establishment of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh in the western hemisphere is concerned, been one of the most eventful since the Plan began to operate and exercise its potent and beneficent influence. Both within and without the Community of the Most Great Name, the events which the last twelve months has unfolded have in some mysterious way, whether directly or indirectly, communicated their force to the Plan’s progressive unfoldment, contributed to the orientation of its policy and assisted in the consolidation of the diversified undertakings, both primary and subsidiary, that fall within its orbit. Even the losses which the ranks of its stout-hearted upholders have sustained will, when viewed in their proper perspective, be regarded as gains of incalculable value, affecting both its immediate fortunes as well as its ultimate destiny.
The succesive international crises which agitated the opening months of the year that has elapsed, culminating in the outbreak of the war in Europe, far from drowning the enthusiasm or daunting the spirit of the prosecutors of God’s Plan, served by deflecting their gaze from a storm-tossed continent, to focus their minds and resources on ministering to the urgent needs of that hemisphere in which the first honors and the initial successes of the heroes of the Formative Age of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh are to be scored and won.
The sudden extinction of the earthly life of that star-servant of the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh, Martha Root, who, while on the last lap of her fourth journey round the world—journeys that carried her to the humblest homes as well as the palaces of royalty—was hurrying homeward to lend her promised aid to her fellow-countrymen in their divinely-appointed task—such a death, though it frustrated this cherished resolution of her indomitable spirit, steeled the hearts of her bereaved lovers and admirers to carry on, more energetically than ever, the work which she herself had initiated, as far back as the year 1919 in every important city in the South American continent.
The subtle and contemptible machinations by which the puny adversaries of the Faith, jealous of its consolidating power and perturbed by the compelling evidences of its conspicuous victories, have sought to challenge the validity and misrepresent the character of the Administrative Order embedded in its teachings have galvanized the swelling army of its defenders to arise and arraign the usurpers of their sacred rights and to defend the long-standing strongholds of the institutions of their Faith in their home country.
And now as this year, so memorable in the annals of the Faith, was drawing to a close, there befell the American Bahá’í community, through the dramatic and sudden death of May Maxwell, yet another loss, which viewed in retrospect will come to be regarded as a potent blessing conferred upon the campaign now being so diligently conducted by its members. Laden with the fruits garnered through well-nigh half a century of toilsome service to the Cause she so greatly loved, heedless of the warnings of age and ill-health, and afire with the longing to worthily demonstrate her gratitude in her overwhelming awareness of the bounties of her Lord and Master, she set her face towards the southern outpost of the Faith in the New World, and laid down her life in such a spirit of consecration and self-sacrifice as has truly merited the crown of martyrdom.
To Keith Ransom-Kehler, whose dust sleeps in far-off Isfáhán; to Martha Root, fallen in her tracks on an island in the midmost heart of the ocean; to May Maxwell, lying in solitary glory in the southern outpost of the Western Hemisphere—to these three heroines of the Formative Age of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh, they who now labor so assiduously for its expansion
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and establishment, owe a debt of gratitude which future generations will not
fail to adequately recognize.
I need not expatiate on other, though less prominent, events that have contributed their share to the furtherance of the Seven Year Plan, or marked its systematic development. The association of the Fund, specifically inaugurated for its prosecution, with the hallowed memories of both the Mother and Brother of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá; the establishment of at least one pioneer in each of the Republics of Central and South America; the ushering in of the last phase of the external ornamentation of the Temple; the conjunction of the institutions of the Haziratu’l-Quds and the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár in the heart of the North American continent; the founding of yet another institution designed as a training school for Inter-America teaching work; the steady rise in the number of groups and Assemblies functioning within the Administrative Framework of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh—these stand out as further evidences of the animating Force that propels the Plan towards its final consummation.
Varied and abundant as have been the past manifestations of this driving, resistless Force, they cannot but pale before the brilliant victories which its progressive and systematic development must achieve in the future.
The American believers, standing on the threshold of the fourth year of the Seven Year Plan, pursue their God-given task with a radiance that no earthly gloom can dim, and will continue to shoulder its ever-growing duties and responsibilities with a vigor and loyalty that no earthly power can either sap or diminish.
- Your true brother,
- SHOGHI.
- Your true brother,
- Haifa, April 15, 1940.
CABLEGRAMS FROM SHOGHI EFFENDI[edit]
Marvel, rejoice, thankful (for) manifold blessings, accomplishments signalizing opening auspicious year (for) American Bahá’í community.
- Received April 25, 1940.
Section (of Temple) ornamentation
(has been) placed (in the) precincts (of
the) Báb’s Shrine. Magnificent reminder
(of) American believers’ stupendous efforts.
- Received April 27, 1940.
Congratulate re-elected Assembly (for)
last year’s magnificent record (of) stewardship. New year auspiciously begun
(by) rapid extension (of) Temple contract.
- Received May 1, 1940.
CONVENTION CABLEGRAMS[edit]
On April 25 the delegates sent the following message to the Guardian:
“Greetings to beloved Guardian (of) Bahá’í Faith. Delegates joyously assembled (in) thirty-second annual convention turn for guidance, supplicating Bahá’u’lláh to strengthen (and) confirm them in promulgation (of) Faith and completion (of) Mashriqu’l-Adhkar. Confident peace of God will triumph in (this) war-torn world.”
The cablegram received from the Guardian was sent on April 24 and was a message to the Convention and not a reply to the foregoing cable.
| CABLEGRAM FROM THE GUARDIAN
SHOGHI RABBANI.
|
“Overjoyed, elated (that) dynamic energy, invincible valor (of) American believers impelled them far outstrip (the) goal fixed (for) third year (of) Seven Year Plan. Temple ornamentation (has been) uninterruptedly pursued. (The) theatre (of) operation (of the) teaching campaign (is) already embracing entire Central America and every South American Republic excepting Paraguay (and) Colombia. Number of countries within (the) orbit (of the) Faith (is) now exceeding sixty. Intercontinental crusade, through path broken (by) Martha Root and seal set (by) May Maxwell’s death, yielding destined fruit. Galvanized, permanently safeguarded. Together with Keith they forged through sacrifice (a) triple cord indissolubly knitting (the) community (of) North American believers to cradle (of) Faith (in) every continent (of) Old World and Latin America. Unperturbed (by) gathering gloom (of) tottering civilization without, contemptuous (of the) assault (of the) perfidious enemies within, (the) executors (of) ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s mandate must (and) will strain every nerve (in the) course (of the) ensuing year (to) multiply (the) number (of) enrolled pioneers, (to) consolidate work achieved (in) newly opened North American States (and) Provinces, (to) insure prompt settlement (of) remaining Republics, (to) prosecute unremittingly ornamentation (of) last unit (of) Mashriqu’l-Adhkar, (to) expedite formation in isolated centers (of) nuclei capable (of the) establishment (of) local Assemblies. Urgently plead, fervently pray (that) all ranks (of the) valiant forerunners (of) Bahá’u’lláh’s commonwealth may, ere expiry (of) allotted term, bring fruition (of) mission (to) insure ascendancy (of) Bahá’u’lláh’s spiritual sovereignty over entire Western hemisphere.”
“THE GRACE THAT SUSTAINS”[edit]
The friends are urged to bear in mind the Guardian’s words concerning the necessity of remaining aloof from those controversies which now agitate nations, races, creeds and classes. The Bahá’í community, as Shoghi Effendi has made clear, is a supranational and supernatural order fostering a new and universal consciousness. If we fail to adhere to this consciousness, we are warned, the result will be to clog the channels of divine grace.
It was on September 24, 1938 that the Guardian’s direct instruction in the matter was received in a cablegram.
“Loyalty (to) world order (of) Bahá’u’lláh, (the) security (of) its basic institutions, both imperatively demand (that) all its avowed supporters, particularly its champion builders (on) American continent, in these days when sinister, uncontrollable forces are deepening (the) cleavage sundering peoples, nations, creeds, classes, resolve, despite (the) pressure (of a) fast-crystallizing public opinion, abstain, individually (and) collectively, in word, action, informally as well as in all official utterances (and) publications from assigning blame, taking sides, however indirectly, in (the) recurring political crises now agitating (and) ultimately engulfing, human society. Grave apprehension lest cumulative effect (of) such compromises
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disintegrate (the) fabric (and)
clog (the) channel (of the) grace that
sustains (the) system (of) God’s essentially supranational (and) supernatural
order so laboriously evolved, so recently
established.”
An earlier instruction from the Guardian is found in Bahá’í Procedure, Section One, Sheet 17: “The Guardian wishes me to draw the attention of the friends through you that they should be very careful in their public addresses not to mention any political figures—either side with them or denounce them. This is the first thing to bear in mind. Otherwise they will involve the friends in political matters, which is infinitely dangerous to the Cause.”
Such advice is to be viewed as urgent and imperative. Local Assemblies will surely see that the Guardian’s words are upheld. But the supreme matter is to render those positive and constructive services to the Faith which will attract confirmations, not try to avoid mistakes and errors which involve penalty. As the Bahá’í community endeavors to achieve the goals set for each year of the seven Year Plan, we will all come under the protection of unity.
FUNCTIONS OF THE NATIONAL OFFICE[edit]
Letter from Shoghi Effendi
While the National Office in Wilmette, designated by the Guardian as Haziratu’l-Quds, is primarily an administrative center, its use should by no means be confined to purely administrative work, but should include such activities of a social and intellectual character, both local and national, as can best establish its character as the foremost teaching and administrative center of the Faith throughout the States.
In the conduct of any social activity at the National Office, however, great care should be taken to maintain strictly the dignity of the place, particularly in view of its proximity to the House of Worship, which makes it doubly essential for all the believers to conform to the standards of conduct, and of social intercourse set up in the Bahá’í Teachings.
As a teaching center, where Bahá’í lectures, conferences and meetings, whether local, regional or national, could be held, the Haziratu’l-Quds can also prove of invaluable help, and the N.S.A. should indeed see to it that the necessary facilities are provided in the building for that purpose.
By thus combining these three features, namely teaching, administrative and social, the Haziratu’l-Quds can best fulfil its mission, as the visible symbol of the steadily-growing national Bahá’í community in Northern America, and as the chief rallying center for all its activities and plans throughout that Continent.—SHOGHI EFFENDI, through his secretary, February 27, 1940.
“THE EXECUTORS OF ‘ABDU’L-BAHÁ’S MANDATE MUST AND WILL STRAIN EVERY NERVE”[edit]
The Guardian’s Instructions for Fourth Year of Seven Year Plan[edit]
The message from Shoghi Effendi to the 1940 Convention has created the basis for all plans intended to promote the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh throughout the Americas during the Bahá’í year begun May 1, 1940. The National spiritual Assembly, therefore, at the very opening of the year, seeks to transform these instructions into the structure of achievement which our collective efforts are to raise an that foundation by April 30 next.
“Overjoyed, elated (that) dynamic energy, invincible valor (of) American believers impelled them far outstrip (the) goal fixed (for) third year (of) Seven Year Plan ... Unperturbed (by) gathering gloom (of) tottering civilization without, contemptuous (of the) assault (of the) perfidious enemies within, (the) executors (of) ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s mandate must (and) will strain every nerve (in the) course (of the) ensuing year ...”
- “Multiply (the) number (of) enrolled pioneers.”
- “Consolidate work achieved (in) newly opened North American States (and) Provinces.”
- “Insure prompt settlement (of) remaining Republics.”
- “Prosecute unremittingly ornamentation (of) last unit (of) Mashriqu’l-Adhkar.”
- “Expedite formation in isolated centers (of) nuclei capable (of the) establishment (of) local Assemblies.”
For the attainment of these ends, the National Spiritual Assembly reports a budget of $150,000 for the Fourth Year of the Seven Year Plan.
International, Administrative and Property Maintenance, including all committee budgets except Teaching in North and South America | $35,000.00 |
Teaching activities throughout the Americas | 30,000.00 |
For Temple construction, to complete the external ornamentation of the first story, including the Circular stairs | 80,000.00 |
For contingency reserve | 5,000.00 |
“Bahá’u’lláh’s Spiritual Sovereignty”[edit]
The Guardian’s Convention message concludes: “Urgently plead, fervently pray (that) all ranks (of the) valiant forerunners (of) Bahá’u’lláh’s commonwealth may, ere expiry (of) allotted term, bring fruition (of) mission (to) insure ascendancy (of) Bahá’u’lláh’s spiritual sovereignty over entire Western hemisphere.”
Beloved friends! The American Bahá’ís are called upon to rise to the great height required if we are to become “executors of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s mandate”—the most glorious privilege offered to mankind in this generation. “All ranks” are needed. Every Bahá’í has a vital part to play. Every administrative body has its function to discharge. The formative agencies of His World Order can only acquire strength and wisdom as they now meet the challenge of a war-torn world. Above and beyond the pressing demands of each passing day let us keep our gaze upon the ultimate goal of the Seven Year Plan: the establishment of the first pillars which must sustain the Most Great Peace.
The Five Steps of Service[edit]
Multiply pioneers. The Guardian’s resounding call to the souls of the Bahá’ís, that pioneers arise for the settlement of new areas throughout the Americas, though it has evoked magnificent response, continues to press its appeal. What he wrote on July 23, 1936 must still be our spiritual standard: “The American believers, if they wish to carry out, in the spirit and the letter, the parting wishes of their beloved Master, must intensify their teaching work a thousand fold ...” Believers who desire to respond to the call for pioneers should communicate with the National Teaching Committee for posts in North America and with the Inter-America Committee concerning settlement in Latin-American fields.
Consolidate work in North American States and Provinces. The settlement of pioneers in these new areas is but the first step, the aim being the establishment of Bahá’í communities qualified to form a Spiritual Assembly. Three new States are now represented in the Bahá’í Administrative Order: South Carolina, Nebraska
[Page 4]
and Utah. Teaching plans and projects
planned to intensify this work will be
reported from time to time throughout
the year.
Prompt settlement of remaining Republics. The Inter-America work this past year exceeded the Guardian’s hopes. Spanish literature, the most urgently needed element in that teaching field, is now rapidly becoming available. Copies of the Esslemont book in Spanish, the Master’s will and Testament (the excerpts published in pamphlet form) and Some Answered Questions are expected during May and June. Plans for the additional settlements wanted by Shoghi Effendi will be reported.
Ornamentation of last unit of Mashriqu’l-Adhkár. This means the completion of the nine pylons, the casting and application of the units to the first story, and the construction of the surrounding staircase. On April 29 the National Spiritual Assembly had a Bahíyyíh Khanum (Temple construction) Fund amounting to $30,000.00, and contracts have been authorized for the completion of the pylons, the external decoration of three of the nine faces of the first story unit, and for the casting and application of certain units to the other six faces, the plan being to continue the operations both in the Earley Studio and at the Temple site simultaneously. The item of $80,000.00 included in this year’s budget, plus the $30,000.00 cash on hand, will complete all the construction called for in the Seven Year Plan except metal work, including outside doors, and whatever grading is done on the grounds, including cost of fill and bulkheads.
Let us heed this vital paint: the budget item of $80,000.00 covers the estimated cost of completing the entire first story, including pylons and stairs. This work can be done by the summer of 1941 if the Temple Trustees are supplied with sufficient funds to place the contracts on the most economical basis.
As for the cost of doors and metal work and grounds, to be met in later annual budgets, no estimates are yet in hand.
Formation of nuclei capable of establishment of local Assemblies. The formation of sixteen new Assemblies in one year is an indication of the mighty power which is consecrating the teaching efforts of committees, Assemblies and individual believers. The possibilities for the current year will be carefully examined, and measures taken to continue this development of the organic American Bahá’í community into a body of influence and power for serving His Revelation.
| CABLEGRAM FROM THE GUARDIAN
SHOGHI RABBANI.
|
“On the threshold of the fourth year”
“The American believers,” the Guardian writes in his communication dated April 15, “standing on the threshold of the fourth year of the Seven Year Plan, pursue their God-given task with a radiance that no earthly gloom can dim, and will continue to shoulder its ever-growing duties and responsibilities with a vigor and loyalty that no earthly power can either sap or diminish.”
MAY MAXWELL MEMORIAL AT BUENOS AIRES[edit]
The Guardian has given the American Bahá’ís the rare privilege of contributing to the expense of the monument to be constructed at the grave of Mrs. Maxwell in Buenos Aires, shrine and symbol of the unity of the Americas in the spirit of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh.
The National Assembly will, when details of the construction are available, make an appropriation from the National Fund, and the friends are free to make special contributions for this purpose.
Shoghi Effendi’s cablegram on this subject will be found elsewhere in the present issue.
NEW SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLIES[edit]
The National Spiritual Assembly reports the formation of new local Spiritual Assemblies by the Bahá’ís of the following cities:
- Alhambra, Calif.
- Burbank, Calif.
- Big Bear Lake, Calif.
- Beverly Hills, Calif.
- Santa Barbara, Calif.
- Santa Rosa, Calif.
- Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- West Haven, Conn.
- Atlanta, Georgia
- Oak Park, Ill.
- Waukegan, Ill.
- Brookline, Mass.
- Omaha, Nebraska
- Salt Lake City, Utah
- North Augusta, South Carolina
- Madison, Wisc.
The total number of local Assemblies in the United States and Canada, as result of the elections held April 21, 1940, is 102, fourteen more than in 1939.
THE FIRM FOUNDATION[edit]
“The importance, nay, the absolute necessity of these local Assemblies is manifest when we realize that in the days to come they will evolve into the local House of Justice, and at present provide the firm foundation on which the structure of the Master’s Will is to be reared in future.”
The formation of sixteen new local
Spiritual Assemblies in one year is an
event of far-reaching importance in the
evolution of the Administrative Order of
the Faith. Despite the pressure of earthshaking happenings around us and the
concentration upon our own vital plans
for the coming year, we must not fail to
realize this accretion of power and energy,
and this multiplication of the agencies
serving the Faith. For in sixteen new
cities of North America has the element
of spiritual authority been established,
that sole instrument through which the
ignorance, the disunity and the sufferings
of mankind are to be remedied. In sixteen cities have magnets of divine attraction been created, and sixteen doors of
confirmation have been opened from the
world of darkness to the world of light.
This new body of administrators will not need the years of effort required by the older communities to understand the nature of a Spiritual Assembly and employ it in consecrated service for the promotion of the Cause. They have before them the Guardian’s clear words of instruction, and around them is an ocean of infinite spiritual power which can be drawn upon according to their collective capacity.
That the foundation now being laid in these new communities may be firm and strong, the National Spiritual Assembly recommends a careful review of the Guardian’s formative words as recorded in Bahá’í Administration.
“To it (the local Assembly) all matters pertaining to the Cause must be directly and immediately referred for full consultation and decision ...
“The matter of Teaching, its direction, its ways and means, its extension, its consolidation, essential as they are to the interests of the Cause, constitute by no means the only issue which should receive the full attention of these Assemblies....
“It is incumbent upon them to be vigilant and cautious, discreet and watchful, and protect at all times the Temple of the Cause from the dart of the mischief-maker and the onslaught of the enemy.
“They must endeavor to promote amity and concord amongst the friends, efface every lingering trace of distrust, coolness and estrangement from every heart, and secure in its stead an active and whole-hearted cooperation for the
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service of the Cause.
“They must do their utmost to extend at all times the helping hand to the poor, the sick, the disabled, the orphan, the widow, irrespective of color, caste and creed ...”
By such explanation and exhortation has the Guardian, since the Master’s Ascension, fostered, encouraged and guided the rise of the institutions which prepare the way for the new world order of Bahá’u’lláh. Let us serve these institutions in the spirit of their essential purpose, develop our capacity by study of the Guardian’s instructions, and realize that initiative does not mean the right to substitute our human conceptions for the organic teachings which we have received. The spirit of initiative is a most precious asset, but its energies are to be released in ways that reflect the principle of unity and consultation.
ADVICE CONCERNING SOLICITATION OF FUNDS AND RECEPTION OF ORIENTALS[edit]
The National Spiritual Assembly reminds the friends that the institution of the Bahá’í Fund is a protection for the believers as well as their instrument for serving the Faith. Under this institution, the only appeal for funds is that which comes from the local or National Assembly and therefore is for purposes which have been investigated and fully authorized. None of the believers have responsibility to contribute funds through any other than the official channel, and no local Assembly need concern itself over solicitations received from foreign lands except through the National Assembly. As for those who seek financial assistance and claim to be Bahá’ís, the friends before taking action should assure themselves that such persons have proper credentials. Finally, the friends are reminded once more that the Master, and after Him the Guardian, warned us to be vigilant and not receive Orientals as believers unless they carry with them a letter of authentic credentials from a local or National Assembly. The purpose of this advice is not to dampen the ardor of sympathy, but to emphasize those teachings which hold us responsible for determining the difference between true and counterfeit objects of our solicitude.
TEACHING AT THE TEMPLE[edit]
The record of visitors who are guided through the House of Worship, in addition to those attending the weekly public meeting, is very impressive and perhaps not appreciated by the majority of the friends.
| NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY—1940-1941
|
The following information about the first four months of 1940 reveals how important the Temple guiding activity has become.
First, it is to be understood that the House of Worship is open daily only in the warmer months, May to October, and all groups who come at other times do so by special arrangement with the Chairman of the Guide Committee, Mrs. John Haggard. In January, 1940, there were 43 different groups including 288 individuals; February, 49 groups, 180 persons; March, 201 groups, 910 persons. Eight hundred eighty-nine persons visited the Temple during April, and the number would have been much larger if guiding had not been suspended during the Convention period.
To illustrate the variety of interests represented by the groups: during the same four months the Guide Committee has received wives of delegates to the National Convention of American Tobacco Distributors, 130; apprentice seamen from Great Lakes Naval Training School,55 in one group, 48 in another, 242 in seven additional groups; WPA tour sponsored by Chicago Board of Education, 129; high school students from three Indiana towns, 162; young people from Wilmette Methodist Episcopal and Evanston First Presbyterian Churches, 70; an Evanston hiking club, 35.
Total number of visitors in the four months, 2,267, an increase of 784 more than during the same period last year.
The special classes for guides enrolled forty-six believers volunteering to serve in this important National teaching activity.
PUBLISHING ANNOUNCEMENTS[edit]
Study Outlines and Aids for World Order Letters of Shoghi Effendi, prepared by the Study Outlines Committee. Photo-offset edition, 64 pages. This Outline covers the six letters reprinted in The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, and makes possible a thorough study of this great work, which is the Guardian’s own interpretation of the Faith in relation to the present breakdown of civilization. Per copy.....$0.50
Comprehensive Study Outline for Children, prepared by Child Education Committee. Mimeographed edition, 53 pages. This Outline makes it possible to conduct a group of older children, and ground them in the fundamentals of spiritual knowledge. There has long been a demand for this material. Per copy.....$0.50
PRESS BOOK REPORT[edit]
The Bahá’í News Service Committee in making its final survey of recent clippings before the close of the Press Books would like to share interesting publicity news.
The Montana Standard of Butte, Montana carried a splendid article on the Temple written by the head of the Art Center in Butte in connection with the display of the Temple model. Lorrol Jackson of Butte reports that a similar article with a mat is making the rounds of some seventy-five newspapers throughout the state as an attraction of the Art Center. She has been told that this publicity may continue for several months.
Because of the difficulties in obtaining space in metropolitan dailies for material on the Cause and the Teachings, two long articles appearing this last year are of in interest. The New York World-Telegram and the Washington Post in their reader’s contributors columns carried long articles on the Cause. The World-Telegram article incorporated a lengthy quotation from the Teachings which is most unusual. Margaret Atwater of Miami, Florida has had great success in using such columns for Bahá’í articles. This last year in addition to the North China Daily News, papers in Asheville, S. C., and Miami, she has contributed a long article on the Faith to the Egyptian Gazette of Cairo, Egypt. This appeared in English. The Italian paper, L’Eco of Springfield, Massachusetts published two long articles on the Cause in its outside contributor column—one article by Bruno Lasker on Race Attitudes in Children which was also published in the January Bahá’í News and an article on International Language by Alice Bacon, Bahá’í of Monson, Mass.
The Regional Teaching Committee of Kansas and Missouri obtained splendid publicity in towns new to the Cause by placing Dr. Esslemont’s book in the Public Libraries and releasing a splendid book review to the papers. The Dodge City, (Mo.) Journal, Lexington, (Mo.) Advertiser, St. Charles Banner and News, and St. Charles Cosmos-Monitor carried these articles.
[Page 6]
Temple Model on Display at Meyers, Florist, New Haven, Conn.
Clippings from new localities include
Tolleson, Arizona; a series of articles appeared in the Tolleson News; Manitowoc,
Wisconsin; Medina, Ohio; Monrovia,
California; Vernon, British Columbia;
and Oconomowoc, Wisconsin. The Ward
Calhouns recently moved into Oconomowoc and released a short article on
their new residence with some comments
on their activity and interest in the Bahá’í
Faith.
The following Assemblies and groups now represented in the Press Books have not been listed in former reports: Peoria, Illinois; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Indianapolis, Indiana; Santa Rosa, and Turlock, California.
A great deal of space has been obtained for material on the Temple. Bahá’í activities and the Teachings in Wilmette and in other North Shore papers through the tireless efforts of Mrs. Gertrude Struven. This has not been an easy task and has taken much effort, tact and wisdom.
Evidence of Bahá’í tact and ingenuity appears in a short item from the Red Bank (N. J.) Standard. Mrs. Ellen Sims wrote the publisher a note of thanks for the cooperation of the Standard in publicizing Bahá’í activities during the year. This note which was published mentioned the appreciation of the National Bahá’í News Service for the clippings from the Standard, which Mrs. Sims had submitted, for the National Press Books which are being preserved in both the International Center at Haifa, and in the National Archives.
The Bahá’í News Service Committee wishes to express its own appreciation to the friends for their great assistance in mailing in their clippings on time and also for their help in arranging the clippings for mounting.
- April 14, 1940.
LOUHELEN SCHOOL[edit]
Youth Sessions[edit]
Mrs. Cynthia Powell is expecting to be present at the Youth sessions and will be glad to consult and advise with any young people wishing counsel in regard to future vocation. This is not vocational guidance in the usual sense. Mrs. Powell is at present studying at Columbia University along the line of what fields show promise for openings and development in the future.
Reservations[edit]
Please make early reservations with Mrs. L. W. Eggleston, Davison, Mich. Those arriving by train or bus in Flint will be met if request is made in advance. Louhelen Ranch is on Michigan state Highway M-15 three miles south of Davison.
Laboratory Session[edit]
The course on Deepening in the Teachings will be conducted by Mrs. H. Emogene Hoagg.
WORLD ORDER MAGAZINE[edit]
Contents of April issue: Religion and Society, by Hussein Rabbani; Will and Testament, Marzieh Gail; Nabil’s History, part IV, George Townshend; The Divine Art of Living, compilation, part I; Bahá’í answers to world questions, study outline material, With the Reader, etc.
Contents of May issue: The Question or Religious Unity, by Horace Holley; Reveille, poem, by Elizabeth Benchley Murray; The Divine Art of Living, part II; Bahá’í answers to world questions; The Internationalism of a Biologist, book review, by Maye Harvey Gift; study outline material; With Our Readers, etc.
CHILD EDUCATION[edit]
Tablets and Prayers[edit]
The former generation of American Bahá’í parents and children received many Tablets and prayers penned by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Himself. A few of these are given below for the Bahá’í children of this important time.
O my Lord! O my Lord!
I am a child of tender years. Nourish me from the breast of Thy mercy, train me in the bosom of Thy love, educate me in the school of Thy guidance and develop me under the shadow of Thy bounty! Deliver me from darkness, make me a brilliant light; free me from unhappiness, make me a flower of the rose-garden; suffer me to become the servant of Thy Threshold and confer upon me the disposition and nature of the righteous ones; make me a cause of bounty to the human world and crown my head with the diadem of eternal life!
Verily, Thou art the Powerful, the Mighty, the Seer, the Hearer!
- (Vol. III, Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 595)
O thou darling dear!
Turn thy face toward the Supreme Kingdom and chant thou this commune:
O Thou Pure God! I am a little child; make Thou the bosom of Thy Gift a dear resting-place of comfort, and suffer me to grow and be nurtured with the honey and the milk of Thy love and train me under the breast of Thy knowledge; bestow Thou freedom while in a state of childhood and grant Thou excellence!
O Thou Incomparable One! Make me the confidant of the Kingdom of the Unseen! Verily, Thou art the Mighty and the Powerful!
- (Vol. III, Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 588)
O thou Glorious Lord!
Make thou this little maid-servant a brilliant-starred daughter of the Kingdom; endear her in the Threshold of Oneness and overflow her with the cup of Thy love, in order that she may raise the cries of joy and ecstasy and mix ambergris with musk.*
Verily, Thou art the Powerful and the Mighty, and Thou art the Wise, the Seer!
- (Vol. III, Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 551)
O thou plant of the Garden of the Love
of God!
Thy letter was received. Its content was of utmost grace and sweetness. As
_____
* This metaphor means the state of prayer and communion with God.
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thou hast turned thy face toward the
Supreme Kingdom, I hope thy disposition
and nature will prove agreeable and comforting to thy brother and sister.
Although thou art small, yet I hope thou wilt become great in the Kingdom. His Highness Christ sayeth: “Happy is the condition of children!” God willing, thou art one of those children.
Be obedient and kind to thy father and mother, caressing brother and sister, and day by day adding to thy faith and assurance.
- (Vol. III, Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 551)
To the children in the Sunday School.
I am glad to see these bright, radiant children. God willing, all of them may realize the hopes and aspirations of their parents.
Praise be to God! I see before me these beautiful children of the kingdom. Their hearts are pure, their faces are shining. They shall soon become the sons and daughters of the kingdom. Thanks be to God! they are seeking to acquire virtues and will be the cause of the attainment of the excellences of humanity. This is the cause of oneness in the kingdom of God. Praise be to God! they have kind and revered teachers who train and educate them well and who long for confirmation in order that, God willing, like tender plants in the garden of God they may be refreshed by the downpour of the clouds of mercy, grow and become verdant. In the utmost perfection and delicacy may they at last bring forth fruit.
I supplicate God that these children may be reared under his protection and that they may be nourished by his favor and grace until all, like beautiful flowers in the garden of human hopes and aspirations, shall blossom and become redolent of fragrance.
O God! Educate these children. These children are the plants of thy orchard, the flowers of thy meadow, the roses of thy garden. Let thy rain fall upon them; let the sun of Reality shine upon them with thy love. Let thy breeze refresh them in order that they may be trained, grow and develop and appear in the utmost beauty. Thou art the giver! Thou art the compassionate! (Vol. I, Promulgation of Universal Peace, pp. 188-189.)
ENROLLMENTS AND TRANSFERS[edit]
Jamestown, three. Chicago, five and two youth. Vancouver, two youth. Glendale, Calif., one. Los Angeles, eight. Augusta, two. Racine, two. Pasadena, one. Dayton, one. Phoenix, one. Teaneck, one. Milwaukee, two youth. Seattle, seven. Maui, one. Washington, two. Indianapolis, one.
Bahá’í Group at Tegucigalpa, Honduras, with Antonio Roca, Pioneer Teacher, and Mrs. Lorol Schopflocher, Traveling Teacher
IN MEMORIAM[edit]
“... The true believer, whose existence and life are to be regarded as the originating purpose of all creation.”
- Mr. Joseph Henry Inglesby, New York.
- Dr. Alfredo Warsaw, Washington.
- Miss Ethelbert E. Jackson, Geneva.
- Mr. Fred J. Woodward, Washington.
- Mrs. Zoreh Lathrop, Seattle.
SCHEDULE OF MEETINGS[edit]
The National Spiritual Assembly has adopted the following schedule of meetings for the year 1940-1941.
- April 27, 28, 29, 1940, Wilmette.
- June 7, 8, 9, Wilmette.
- July 2, 3, 4, Wilmette.
- August 17, 18, 19, Green Acre.
- October 4, 5, 6, Wilmette.
- November 15, 16, 17, Atlanta.
- December 27, 28, 29, Wilmette.
- February 7, 8, 9, 1941, Wilmette.
- March 21, 22, 23, Wilmette.
- April 22, 23, Wilmette.
- Annual Convention, April 24, 25, 26, 27.
BAHÁ’Í CALENDAR[edit]
Nineteen Day Feasts: May 17, June 5, June 24.
Anniversaries and Festivals: Declaration of the Báb, May 23. Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh, May 29. The Declaration of the Báb is to be observed on May 22, at about two hours after sunset. The Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh is to be observed, if possible, on May 29 at 3.00 AM.
Meeting of the National Spiritual Assembly, June 7, 8 and 9 at 536 Sheridan Road, Wilmette.
Bahá’í Schools: First Youth Session, Louhelen Ranch, June 26-30.
Annual Souvenir of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, at Evergreen Cabin, West Englewood, N. J., 2.00 P.M., Saturday, June 29.
THE THIRTY-SECOND ANNUAL CONVENTION[edit]
Another Convention has written its scroll of deathless achievement, welding into oneness, by its spirit, many peoples of the earth. Sublimity and beauty inspire those who approach the Temple, all the more as its outward dress nears completion. The impression grows with the signs found within. The Bourgeois model, showing the consummation of the Temple ideal; the book display amidst artistic settings; the various maps, charts and pictures illustrating every phase of Bahá’í activity in the western world; the Oriental rugs, drapery and sacred relics which link the Cause with its place of birth; a throng of joyous, loving friends representing many backgrounds of culture, racial varieties and schools of thought; but above all, the mysterious atmosphere of oneness, sanctity and blessed confirmation to be found in the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár. visible representation of the body of Bahá’u’lláh, the Universal Manifestation of God. What a favor to mingle freely with the friends of God! What a blessing even to be linked with those who attain this blessed meeting! Happy are those in every land who see the signs of God.
During the sessions of the convention the workmen, bringing the pylons to completion, were always busy, yet they caused no disturbance to the friends in
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consultation in the foundation below.
The harmony among the workmen, the
fine cooperation given by the authorities
of the Village of Wilmette and the State
of Illinois, shows the growing attraction
and power of the Faith.
The Convention was opened as is usual, by the Chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly, who eloquently voiced welcome to delegates and friends, stressing the great needs and responsibilities of such an hour, as well as elation over the signs of victory. The Convention organized by electing by ballot the chairman and secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly as its officers.
The Convention cabled the Guardian as follows: “Greetings to (the) beloved Guardian (of the) Bahá’í Faith. Delegates joyfully assembled (in) thirty-second annual Convention, turn for Guidance, supplicating Bahá’u’lláh (to) strengthen (and) confirm them in (the) promulgation (of the) Faith and the completion (of the) Mashriqu’l-Adhkár. Confident (the) Power of God will triumph in (this) war-torn world.”
To a message from the outgoing Assembly the Guardian replied: “(I) marvel (and) rejoice (and) am thankful (for the) manifold blessings (and) accomplishments signalizing (the) opening (of) auspicious year (for the) American Bahá’í community.”
Even earlier came our Guardian’s long cablegram (quoted elsewhere) which was immediately transcribed and circulated among the friends and served as inspiration, light and guidance for the consultation of those memorable days.
As illustrating the world-wide penetration of the Faith, greetings and love came by letter or cablegram from many parts of the world:
Tihran, Irán; the Canal Zone, Panama; Kingston, Jamaica; San Antonio, Texas; Colorado Springs, Colorado; Charleston, West Virginia; Monroe, Washington; San Francisco, California; Fairbanks, Alaska; Honolulu, Hawaii; Mexico City; Montevideo, Uruguay; San Salvador, C. A.; Butte, Montana.
These beautiful messages were redolent of devotion, faith, sacrifice, service and the universal love which is the reality of existence.
The roll call showed 115 of the 171 accredited delegates present in person. This number was later increased to 121. Of the full number of delegates, 167 were counted as voting either in person or by mail. The remaining four ballots, sent by mail, arrived too late to be counted in the election of the National Spiritual Assembly.
The supplemental report of Mr. Holley, the secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly, showed the fine progress of the work on the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár, which bids fair to be completed, in outer ornamentation within two years less than the time generously set by the Guardian; the work of filling in and grading the grounds; the organization of Spiritual Assemblies in various cities, bringing the total up to 102; plans for a tunnel from the street to the Temple entrance; the purpose by them stated, of Mr. and Mrs. Siegfried Schopflocher to give their valuable properties in Eliot, Maine, to wit: Ole Bull Cottage and Nine Gables estate, to the Trustees of the National Spiritual Assembly, retaining only their present interest during their joint and several lives; the purpose to make the World Order Magazine serve the believers in such a way as to make it self-supporting; the extended teaching services rendered by the Bahá’í exhibits at various expositions; the presentations of the Teachings on peace and the New World Order to the President of the United States; the contemplated transfer of the National Treasurer’s Office from West Englewood to the Haziratu’l-Quds; recent messages from the Guardian; new publications of the teachings in Spanish to meet the needs of the Inter-America Committee; the defense of the Cause against outside attacks by authentic teachings and constructive actions; the progress of the plan for the Martha Root Memorial; the work on the Temple pylons in progress and rapidly going ahead; the spirit of love and sacrifice which makes concerted action possible.
An especially interesting phase of consultation centered around reaching the scientific world with the teachings on peace and a new world structure. The possible results of such an effort seem measureless. Many incidents were told as indicating the heart-hunger and veiled mentalities of many eminent people, these conditions expressed in speeches, radio talks, magazine articles and various other ways. As one savant put it: “Can man live without God?” The Bahá’í World, which has the Guardian’s own review and approval, was suggested as the best appeal to the minds and hearts of scientists and educators, in the presentation of the Bahá’í Teachings. The advisability of preparing a new and brief compilation on peace was also considered.
At this moment the friends at Fruitport, Michigan, expressed their love and understanding in a very pleasing way, favoring the Convention with a tribute in beautiful flowers.
Some time was given to the status of Bahá’í youth, who, although reaching maturity at fifteen, according to the revealed Words of Bahá’u’lláh, do not attain voting membership in Bahá’í communities until reaching the age of twenty-one. The matter is a complicated one, due to the requirement of twenty-one as the age of maturity by the laws of the country and the question whether a departure from this at this time would affect property holdings; also whether or not a change in America would not involve a corresponding change in many lands. It was felt and expressed that all the laws of Bahá’u’lláh that are known, should be applied without delay. But information reached the Convention that this particular matter had been referred to the Guardian for his elucidation and instructions.
Amid much pleasantry, mingled with serious thought, the Treasurer and the Assistant Treasurer made supplementary reports and addresses, commending the sacrifices of the friends which were accomplishing such marvelous results. The “Green Bag” of the Treasurer, never aggressively projected, but ever discreetly in view, appeared to conceal a magnet which had an attraction for cash. Green is said to be the color of happiness. Near the close of the Convention, the Treasurer reported that about six thousand dollars, formerly limited to personal use, had been drawn into universal service by the allurement of his bag.
During consideration of the Treasurer’s report one wise in the ways of the world made an eloquent address in comment upon what is revealed of the sacrifices of the workers, who as far as they were able, were defraying their own expenses and when unable to do so, were accepting little or nothing beyond the cost of simple living. The few who found a stipend necessary were receiving what a day laborer would often despise, although the type of work they were doing required for it years of preparation. A case in point was the Treasurer’s reference to two of the most eminent and useful workers who had recently made a reduction in their expenses which would save the Cause six hundred dollars per year.
The Treasurer averred that no one should be told how much he should give, this being a matter entirely left to the individual and to God. Those moved by the spirit of generosity should make their connection with the Great Power House. Many blessings are promised them. Time was also suggested as an element of sacrifice. Now is the time to use the labor and material needed to complete the Temple, lest later their availability become difficult through the exigencies of warfare.
The Chairman for the Trustees and the Maintenance Committee, told of the progress of the Temple work, unveiling its transcendent beauty and general praise it is attracting from architects and builders and their acknowledgment that when completed it will be the most beautiful building in the world. Already it has
[Page 9]
progressed two years ahead of schedule,
this through the sacrifices and loving cooperation of the friends. The pylons are
rising like pillars of light into the world.
One of the many signs of favor is that in
a contract for $29,000.00 with the architect, Mr. Earley, $10,000.00 had been
saved. At this point the Temple Prayer
was read.
Another member of the Maintenance Committee stated that the said committee had been authorized to purchase fill for the grading of the Temple grounds at 35c per yard. Later, through the wrecking of an old building at the Northwestern University, it had been found available at 13 cents per yard. Still later, now, it is costing but 6½c. Since the purchase of the land that forms the site of the Haziratu’l-Quds, Lake Michigan gave that land a beach. Now that beach is being filled in without cost and will, in time, become a beautiful lawn or be used for additions to the Office. May this not illustrate how the things of the earth, which avoid those who turn away from God, seek to serve those who love Him and obey His behests?
Teaching[edit]
The National Teaching committee, through its officers and workers, gave a fascinating recital of the expansion of this vital service in North America, relating stories of pioneers to make the work more humanistic and interesting, and referring to the statistics in the printed report, showing actual and relative gain. Twenty-five States and Provinces are still without Spiritual Assemblies, an incentive to new effort and struggle. Forty-four pioneers are now working in the vast area comprising Alaska, Canada, and the States, with a forward march on every front, a powerful enthusiasm and the noblest of purposes.
Spiritual tributes were paid the Regional Teaching Committees, through which many new centers have come into being. There has been a large circulation of literature and many visits made by traveling teachers with much follow-up work. The Temple models and book exhibits have had a major part in attracting inquirers and impressing them with the value and beauty of the Teachings. Much interest has been aroused in virgin territory by these models. Traveling libraries are another impressive feature. The number of Bahá’í centers is now 102, exceeding the Guardian’s expectations. Despite this praiseworthy attainment, there are yet hundreds of cities untouched, so there must be no rest, but continued effort. Pioneers in Salt Lake City, Albuquerque, Miami, a returned teacher from Germany and Hungary and others, lent variety and interest to the discussion. The
First Declared Believer of Cuba, Perfecto Pérez Toledo, with Mr. and Mrs. Philip Marangella
friend who had traveled abroad warned
against mailing or sending literature into
countries where its circulation is forbidden by the government, as it will under
such conditions only increase the difficulties of the loyal friends.
Bahá’ís and the World War[edit]
These thoughts were brought before the Convention by those especially praying for peace. The prayers of the friends may have a wonderful effect upon the state of the world. By praying and holding meetings to pray for peace, by concentrating upon the great activities outlined by the Guardian, Temple construction and teaching, they may be the means of shortening the duration of the war and limiting its scope. According to an ancient prophecy, in this day confirmed, “Unless these days are shortened there will be no flesh left alive. But for the sake of the elect they will be shortened.”
This blessing is manifestly promised to the Community of the Greatest Name. It does not appear inevitable that we should be drawn, as a nation, into the present war. But we must, as a nation, take part in the social and economic relations of the world.
Teaching Methods[edit]
A reading from the Holy Words on “The Will (to teach) the Plan and the Deed,” drew out an interesting consideration of methods. There was some advocacy of a public speaking school to be organized in each center. Another was the nice distinction to be observed between talks intended for Bahá’ís and those for inquirers. The idea of learning to teach by actually teaching was impressed. Teaching by service, the right approach to minority groups, such as Filipinos, etc., by knowing their utmost longings and hopes; putting into practice in every day living the prayers and revealed Word; “Treating the mystical way with practical feet,” as a great educator said of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, were other expressions of teaching wisdom.
One of mature wisdom in world affairs as well as the Cause, warned against a Babel of Words in giving the message. Deeds, he averred, count most of all. Give to people what they lack. Teach the new administrative order. This is now very important, in view of the visible failure of the old. Science is a vital part of the dynamics of the Cause. People must be trained to be wise in electing the universal House of Justice. Stress the unique and universal features and then others, that transform the life of the individual.
The happiness of teaching was another point driven home. No real joy without it! Here the Treasurer, Green Bag and Company, all beaming and lovable, suggested teaching by sacrifice!
Traveling teaching tours and firing new souls with Bahá’í enthusiasm; supplying books to isolated believers; social contacts and refreshments, dinners, entertainments, each and all with the noble purpose of spreading the teachings; each in turn received due emphasis. Every sincere effort counts on the part of the exponents of the Faith.
A beautiful and impressive picture of the line cooperation, mutual confidence and understanding of the two races in the Bahá’í community of Nashville, Tennessee, was placed before the Convention by its delegate, who also pointed out that the region of the Southern States is as large in area as all of France, that the problems there are complex and difficult; that there are many social and economic
[Page 10]
changes in progress. She expressed the
conviction that Nashville bids fair to lead
the nation in racial adjustment. Outsiders who know nothing of conditions may
do more harm than good by making head-on collisions with what they know not.
Do not ignorantly attack a problem. Cooperate, but do not antagonize, was her
thought.
Still another view was, look ever to the Higher world for Guidance. Accept and apply the Divine Teachings always, avoiding only their occasional use from day to day.
Race Unity[edit]
An unusually interesting item of consultation was the vital subject of race unity. The committee, as one result of its surveys, gave the numbers of the various minority groups as follows:
Negroes | 12,000,000 |
Jews | 4,500,000 |
Indians | 337,000 |
Esquimos | 30,000 |
Each of the above groups except the Esquimos, has been contacted by the committee during the past year. The Spirit of Bahá’u’lláh, given to the body of mankind, is the fire of attraction in souls for the higher and all-embracing unity. The wise approach to the various minorities, first to contact, and then deepen their knowledge of the Faith and to draw them gradually into the various Bahá’í communities, is the evident goal. Many Bahá’í communities as well as outside organizations are asking for real knowledge along this line. The discovery by many of the world’s great scientists, that the differences between races is at most entirely superficial, if not entirely imaginary, and their conviction of the essential unity of the human family, are powerful aids to the logic of workers. As the popular mind largely adheres to the old superstitions, the work of dislodging them is a vital step toward unity. The Divine Teachings are wonderful, perfect and complete. Happy therefore are those who discern clearly and follow the vision. One delegate suggested as a tactful method of presenting the teachings was to link all races together. Another was, as far as possible, to present the Revelation in its universal aspects and as a whole. The mysterious Power that aids those who work for this end is a sign of victory.
The American Indian[edit]
Milwaukee reported work among the Indians and it was brought to the attention of the Convention that a young Indian was in the meeting as a visitor.* Both the chairman and the delegates accorded him so enthusiastic a welcome that it resulted in his acceptance of the Faith, which for some time he has been investigating. He has long been seeking “a religion that would work.” He is a very intelligent, thoughtful and serious young man, an Indian of full blood and feels that God is now calling him to a great understanding and mission. What he knows and tells of his own people, their religion, history and culture, is most interesting.
The brilliant work for race unity done in Pasadena, New York, Peoria, Chicago and other centers was told by various friends.
_____
* He has since been enrolled as member of the
Milwaukee Bahá’í Community.
The Election[edit]
The chief and central purpose of the annual Convention is the election of the National Spiritual Assembly. The time appointed for this was Friday afternoon, April 26, the second day of the Convention, which would give time for the newly elected body to consult with the delegates. At the hour appointed the Divine Instructions were read: prayers were uttered; a period of meditation followed; and in an atmosphere signally free from the turmoil and agitation which usually accompany such a matter in many other gatherings, the ballots were cast. The next morning the committee whose task it was to count them and who were commended for their work, announced the reelection of the body of last year.
Inter-America Teaching[edit]
This committee deplored the enforced absence of its Chairman to whom it ascribed an aura of inspiration. It related the great happenings in South and Central America as an inspiring chronicle of dreams and visions. Latin-America, it felt, must be reached first of all, through the heart; later the head. Mention was made of the eminent services of Mrs. Frances Benedict Stewart, who is again setting out on a trip to this vast area; of the stimulating effect and results of the recent visit of Mrs. Lorol Schopflocher to all pioneers in central America; of the work of Miss Leonora Holzapple, the first resident pioneer in Brazil; of Miss Martha Root, first Bahá’í of all to visit these countries to the South; and of all the brave pioneers now settled in the many countries of this vast region. It is the wish of the Guardian that those who go should not return until they have established a real foundation. The promised confirmations are ready to descend upon those who make the effort. The beautiful book compiled by the chairman, Mrs. Loulie A. Mathews, and containing the photographs and other material about those who have pioneered during past years in Latin-American countries, was on exhibition. It is intended as a gift for Shoghi Effendi. It was much admired. Real pioneers, not mere travelers, is now the appeal of this committee for these countries, all of which save two, are now entered. The courage, faith, vision, severance and heroic sacrifices in overcoming trials, were vividly pictured and brought home as the listeners in the wonderful report of this committee. The gift of Temerity Ranch, Colorado Springs, and its availability and use as a training
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school for teachers in the Latin-American
countries, is a sign of Providence to those
lands.
Bahá’í Schools[edit]
The three established Schools, Green Acre, Louhelen and Geyserville, had their plans and programs ably set forth by their respective committees. Their special work is the training of Bahá’í teachers in the correlation of religion and science; deepening the knowledge of the Cause, especially among the youth, offering the relaxation of a vacation in which the mind rests by change of labor; promoting physical, mental and spiritual health; encouraging sociability; confirming those who come to them in the joyousness of real life and the acceptance of the Glorious Message. Laboratory courses are coming more and more into favor. The importance which the Guardian attaches to these schools and their future evolution into Bahá’í universities would impress all who came to avail themselves of their present facilities.
Other Education Plans[edit]
The Braille work among the blind which makes the Teachings available to them; suggested plans to reach the deaf and dumb, and even the insane, were proposed during this very sympathetic spiritual consultation. Hearts that are moved with such tenderness toward the unfortunate reflect the Divine Compassion which showers gifts upon all.
Radio[edit]
The spread of the Faith through radio talks, in the opinion of its committee, was foretold in the Book of Revelation by mention of the Angel who poured his vials upon the air. How important has this now become! It may, if wisely conducted, even in a short time triple the number of people in our communities. It will therefore be wise to make a national effort at broadcasting. Stations object to politics and matters of a partisan nature. But that which is on the universal plane attracts them. Be careful to make all such talks simple, so as to reach a sixth or eighth grade mind. Newspapers in your area will accept the Temple picture and publish interviews about it. Dare greatly and expect results. This is truly the day when “the word uttered in secret shall be declared upon the housetop.”
Bahá’í News Service[edit]
Bahá’í News Service is the committee for publicity. It features the news of the American and Inter-American campaign of teaching and all growing works. It distributes maps, Temple pictures, also those of prominent workers and teachers. It prepares and offers releases on various phases of the work. It has worked out a technique of spiritual approach to educators. Go to them with love and a wish to serve them in your heart. Do not be discouraged, if bowing to vested interests or public sentiment they refuse your offer. All such conditions are in a state of change. A statement is more likely to be taken if someone can be quoted as having made it, as this takes the responsibility on the paper. The chairman told how he had an article about the New World Order published by sending it to the editor coupled with a letter of praise for an editorial in which the editor was trying to find a way out of the glooms and shadows of the day.
The Spirit of the Convention[edit]
The whole Convention was spiritual, as so well attested by the unity, love and harmony of those who composed it. But special emphasis was given to the mystical and spiritual by the half hour given each morning to the reading of Creative Words and Prayers preceding each session; laying a solid foundation in the hearts for the light of consultation. The committee which arranged this also planned the Memorial to the late Mrs. May Maxwell.
May Maxwell Memorial[edit]
This Memorial consisted of the reading of Tablets and Prayers, the chanting of the Victory Tablet by our Persian brother, Dr. Ali-Kuli Khan, and eulogies by a few among her many loving friends, of those who were closest to her in service and association during past years. Those who had a part were Charles Mason Remey, Miss Juliet Thompson, Philip Sprague, Miss Marion Holley, Miss Agnes Alexander, Mrs. Frances B. Stewart and Ernest Harrison.
How glorious the life that sacrificed all in the Path of God and took its flight while in the arena of service in a strange and distant land! Forever blessed is she, “Under the shadow of the Favor of her Lord.”
The Feast of El-Ridván[edit]
This greatest of all Bahá’í celebrations, the joyous festival commemorating the Declaration of Bahá’u’lláh at Baghdád in 1863, had its program planned by the Spiritual Assembly of Urbana and its feast prepared by that of Chicago. As planned, the significance of the Feast was the subject of the first address. Others were spiritual joy and sacrifice, centering around the lives of the Purest Branch, the Exalted Leaf, and the Greatest Holy Leaf, souls who were trained by the Manifestation; also that unique expression of love and sacrifice manifested in Bahá’u’lláh Himself. Among those who spoke were Mrs. Corinne True, Miss Juliet Thompson, Dr. Ali-Kuli Khan, Mrs. Dorothy Baker and Mr. Albert Windust. Speech was followed by presentation in turn of the film and voice record of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, following which refreshments were served to about seven hundred visitors and friends. This was, as fated to be, an impressive, joyous and memorable occasion.
The Teaching Meeting[edit]
This Convention, unprecedented by previous ones, lasted four days and had the grand finale in the public teaching meeting of Sunday evening. George O. Latimer of Portland, Oregon, presided and with his usual genial and affable grace, pointed to and expressed reality.
The two speakers were Miss Elsie Austin of Washington, D. C., former assistant Attorney General of Ohio, and Mrs. Helen Bishop of Geyserville, California, Bahá’í teacher and international traveler. This program was praised very highly by those who heard it and the hope was expressed that the addresses in a condensed form might later appear in the next volume of The Bahá’í World.
Thus passed into history the thirty-second Convention, with a record of love, happiness, harmony and constructive service unsurpassed, rarely equalled.
SUPPLEMENTARY REPORT
NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHÁ’ÍS OF THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA
1939-1940[edit]
Beloved Friends:
A few days before the opening of the Thirty-second Annual Convention, work was resumed on the exterior decoration of the House of Worship. The nine pylons will be completed during the next few months under a contract made possible by the balance in the Bahíyyíh Khanum Fund. Those attending the Convention, moreover, have noted that the grounds have been filled in and a new level attained corresponding to the level of the exterior stairs, almost around the edifice. The approach to Foundation Hall from Linden Avenue is being left ungraded for a time, as it will be necessary to provide a tunnel from the street to the entrance into what will then be the underground basement of the Temple. The Temple Maintenance Committee has been able to obtain all this fill at a cost of only one-third the quotation obtained a year ago.
In the April bulletin the friends were
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informed of the Guardian’s cablegram received March 31: “Suggest if feasible
place immediate contracts for completion (of) pylons and ornamentation (of)
one whole face. Praying early success.”
Investigations have been made to determine how best to carry out this wish,
and how to proceed with the balance of
construction as funds are made available
from time to time. The result of these
investigations, not determined at the date
of this writing, can be reported orally to
the delegates and later issued to the entire Bahá’í community.
The important matter at this time is to realize the present status of the amount of Temple construction work definitely allocated to the seven years ending 1944. Financially, the work to be undertaken amounted to $350,000 in June, 1937. The work to be completed henceforth amounts to $79,680.50, plus an estimated $50,000 for metal doors, grilles and landscaping. Within three years of a period covering seven years the American Bahá’ís, with those munificent donations made by the Guardian himself, have thus accomplished Temple construction work amounting to about $220,000.00. Through contracts amounting to less than $40,000 a year for the next two years, the exterior of the House of Worship can be completed two years before the termination of the Seven Year Plan. This, truly, is a notable achievement to contemplate, and a high standard to set for future generations of believers.
Another current accomplishment comparable in importance is the addition to the number of local Spiritual Assemblies made at the time of the annual election on April 21. While all reports are not yet received, the National Assembly can state that since mentioning the eleven applications on hand by the middle of March, groups in Oak Park, Illinois, North Augusta, South Carolina, Hamilton, Ontario, Salt Lake City, Utah, and Alhambra, California, have developed to the point of electoral capacity, the group at La Crescenta, California may have likewise qualified, while Knoxville, Tennessee has resumed Assembly status and Scranton, Pennsylvania, has emerged from the difficulties caused by the loss of two active believers who moved to another city. These conditions mean that the American Bahá’ís have in all probability met the Guardian’s expressed hope that one hundred Assemblies exist after April 21, 1940.
In a previous section of the report, reference was made to the new properties donated to the Faith this year. This information can now be amplified by the news that Mr. and Mrs. Schopflocher are prepared to execute an Indenture transferring to the Green Acre Trustees title to their property in Eliot, Maine, with the provision that they retain full use and control during their lifetime, the same provision written into the gift of properties at Geyserville and at Colorado Springs. The Eliot property includes the cottage known as “Ole Bull” house and the famous “Nine Gables” house, studios and farm.
The Assemblies of Boston, Honolulu, Peoria, Binghamton and Helena have recently incorporated, and By-Laws have been approved for the Newark Assembly.
Beginning with the April number, World Order Magazine has worked out a more directly Bahá’í function and is prepared to provide material for study as well as articles based on the Teachings or on personal experience of avowed Bahá’ís. This change was made under authority given by the National Assembly, with the twofold aim of serving the believers and of making the magazine self-supporting. The essential point to note in the change is that experience has proved the only effective way to reach non-Bahá’ís is through Bahá’ís.
The two World’s Fair Bahá’í exhibits, at New York and San Francisco, will be conducted again this year. New exhibit material has been prepared by the Bahá’í Exhibit Committee and is to be seen at the Convention. The element of visual education is being rapidly developed for Bahá’í teaching, and no doubt the number of regional and local exhibits will greatly increase during the coming year.
Material on Bahá’í marriage certificates, with request for advice and instruction, has been sent to the Guardian. The National Assembly hopes that it will soon be able to provide a proper form for use by those Assemblies which have satisfied the legal requirements laid down by their state codes. The Guardian is also being consulted concerning any changes in the local By-Laws necessary to define this new authority of local Assemblies. A standard By-Law will be added to the approved local By-Laws when the Guardian’s instructions have been received.
The Assembly is pleased to report that through its Chairman, Bahá’í Teachings on peace have been conveyed to the President through his Secretary, and assurance received that the material was placed in the President’s hands.
New publications under way since the publication of the Annual Reports include: Spanish edition of Esslemont’s Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era; Spanish edition of excerpts from the Master’s Will and Testament; Study Outline and Aids for the Guardian’s World Order Letters, prepared by the Study Outline Committee; a Comprehensive Study Course for children, prepared by the Child Education Committee; and three Bahá’í Reprints which make it possible to hand out important excerpts from the writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and words of Shoghi Effendi in attractive and convenient form.
Actions taken at the meeting of the National Assembly held immediately prior to the Convention include authorizations for continuance of Temple work, decision to transfer the Treasurer’s Office to
[Page 13]
the National headquarters at Wilmette,
and approval of the brief prepared by the
attorney in connection with the legal suit
against the parties misusing the name
“Bahá’í.”
The friends are urged to give their careful attention to the passages in which the Guardian refers to the nature of attacks against the Master and His Will and Testament, appearing on pages 89 and 90 of The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh. Here we find the clearest statement in the writings for discussion of the New History publication dated April, 1940 with new believers and with those attracted to the Faith who have not yet gained the background of understanding and experience to discern the hollowness of any argument and claim based upon failure to accept the Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. The matter will soon come to trial, and the friends can rest assured that the true nature of the Bahá’í Faith and of its Administrative Order will be established in accordance with the power and scope of the written and authentic Teachings.
Let us realize now the significance of the first collective spiritual gathering of the Bahá’ís of all the Americas as meetings are held in all Bahá’í Centers on April 26 to commemorate the martyrdom of Mrs. May Maxwell. It is indeed a historic occasion, a point of renewal and fresh beginning in the Inter-America teaching work. We recall Bahá’u’lláh’s mighty Tablet to the Presidents of these Republics, the Master’s call sounded in the Tablets of America’s Spiritual Mission, and the Guardian’s vision of the future expounded in The Advent of Divine Justice. The Bahá’ís of America stand at the converging center of the most tremendous power ever to stream into the hearts of mankind. This is the power ordained to remove mountains of prejudice and cross all the seas of ignorance and division. Ours but to make ourselves instruments to serve those ends and be used by that power! While the world is engaged in political debate and struggle, may the friends of God drink the cup of unity which contains the mysterious ingredient of all success.
In conclusion, the recent messages from the Guardian are recorded.
Cablegram received February 27: “Congratulate alike (the) National Representatives, (the) newly fledged Assemblies, (the) recently despatched pioneers (and the) freshly enrolled believers all concurring (in) common mission (to) energize processes propelling Plan along destined course. Appeal once again (to) every participant, notwithstanding (the) threatening tempest, (to) steadily maintain high aim, dare greatly, toil unremittingly, sacrifice worthily, endure radiantly, unflinchingly till very end. Harvest to be reaped (is) fore-ordained, incalculably rich, everlasting glorious, visibly approaching.”
In a letter sent to the Treasurer on January 3, but delayed in transmission, Shoghi Effendi, through his secretary, emphasized again the Memorial to be raised in honor of Martha L. Root: “With regard to the Memorial which the N. S. A. is proposing to elect in honor of our beloved Martha, the Guardian is hopeful that the fund which is now being raised for that purpose will receive the full support of the believers, and that the donations which will be sent in will be sufficient to enable your Assembly to erect a befitting monument in memory of our departed sister. The friends should be impressed with the importance and significance of this undertaking, and should seize this opportunity of paying their last tribute to so outstanding and indeed matchless a pioneer and servant of the Cause in the West.”
A letter dated February 23 made it clear that the Teaching and Inter-America Committees have different jurisdictions and distinct fields of work.
Excerpts from a number of letters written by the Guardian to individual believers were published with his consent in the March issue of Bahá’í News. These explanations cover a wide field of Bahá’í interest, and add to our understanding of the Faith.
The most recent communication at this date (April 23) is the cablegram received April 11: “Delighted immediate action (on) pylons. Prompted urge, if not too uneconomical, (to) proceed (with the) completion (of) one face. Complete (the) remainder (in) manner most advisable. Welcome contemplated memorial gathering. Moved (to) invite national representatives (and) community join me contribute (to) construction (of) grave being designed (by) Mr. Maxwell at such (a) significant spot for so outstanding (a) pioneer during such momentous stage (in the) dynamic expansion (of the) Faith (of) Bahá’u’lláh.”
It is in the spirit of such words that the Bahá’ís convene at their Annual Convention and prepare themselves to enter the fourth year of the Guardian’s Plan.
- Faithfully yours,
- NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY.
BAHÁ’Í EXHIBITS[edit]
About two years ago, in view of the projects for an exhibit at each of the World Fairs in 1939, a committee, consisting of Allen B. McDaniel, Chairman, Carl Scheffler and Rex and Mary Collison, was appointed by the National Spiritual Assembly, with special consideration to the preparation of a plan and program for a permanent Bahá’í exhibit which could be transported from place to place and shown at State Fairs, annual meetings of educational, religious, peace and similar organizations, at conferences, conventions and other gatherings.
Data were collected and studied of the experience of Bahá’í communities which had held exhibits. Outstanding was the Bahá’í Exhibit at the National Canadian Exposition at Toronto in August-September of 1938 and 1939.
Mr. Carl Scheffler prepared a design for a portable exhibit, which was used for the Bahá’í exhibit at the New York State Fair at Syracuse in September, 1939.
In August, 1939, an exhibit was maintained at the Wisconsin State Fair, by the Bahá’í communities of Kenosha, Racine, Wauwatosa and Milwaukee.
During the summer and fall of 1939, the National Spiritual Assembly with the active cooperation of the Bahá’í communities of New York and of the Bay region of San Francisco, maintained the beautiful and unique exhibits at their respective World Fairs. Many thousands of visitors were met and contacted, large quantities of free literature were distributed and many people attracted to and interested in our Faith.
In view of the expense involved in the two Worlds’ Fair exhibits, no definite steps have been taken toward the construction of the proposed traveling exhibit. Further studies are being made, however, with a view toward the gradual development of a workable program for this form of teaching medium, which has been enthusiastically endorsed by our Guardian.
- Faithfully submitted,
- ALLEN B. MCDANIEL, Chairman
- MRS. REX COLLISON
- REX COLLISON
- CARL SCHEFFLER
- Faithfully submitted,
CENTRALIZATION OF THE NATIONAL OFFICE[edit]
About two years ago, the National Spiritual Assembly appointed a committee consisting of Allen B. McDaniel, Chairman, Leroy Ioas and Siegfried Schopflocher to consider the practicability, method and expense involved of combining and centralizing the administrative activities and offices of the National Assembly in one location presumably within the area of the Universal House of Worship.
Consultation was had with the various national officers maintaining full time offices and personnel, consideration was given to the housing of a national office in Wilmette, and finally approval of our Guardian was sought in such an important
[Page 14]
step in the development of our Faith
in America.
The National Assembly with the cooperation of this Committee and of the Temple Maintenance Committee arranged for the removal of the office of the National Secretary from New York City to the Bourgeois Studio on October 1, 1939. Provision was made for a home for Mr. and Mrs. Holley in addition to the Secretary’s office.
On October 3, 1939, the Guardian, in a cable message, hailed as an “historic act” this significant step taken by the National Spiritual Assembly, and as “signalizing auspicious conjunction (in) heart (of) North American continent (of the) institutions (of) Haziratu’l-Quds (and) Mashriqu’l-Adhkar, the twin foci (of) steadily evolving American Bahá’í community life.”
On January 20, 21 and 22, 1940, during the sessions of the National Spiritual Assembly at its first meeting in the Haziratu’l-Quds, recognition of this memorable occasion, in the light of the Guardian’s message, was given by special programs of readings in the National Office, in the Auditorium of the House of Worship and at the opening of the Regional Conference in the Foundation Hall.
Study is now being made of the next step in the program for the centralization of the functions and activities of the National Office; a step that will involve the business and financial affairs of the Faith with special relation to the maintenance and operation of our various Trustee properties.
- Faithfully submitted,
- ALLEN B. MCDANIEL, Chairman
- LEROY IOAS
- SIEGFRIED SCHOPFLOCHER
- Faithfully submitted,
REGIONAL TEACHING COMMITTEES[edit]
UPPER NEW YORK[edit]
At a meeting of the committee early in the year it was decided to concentrate efforts on the city of Syracuse as a major project. For some time there has been a small group there which had finally been reduced to five believers. After studying conditions it was thought that an entirely new effort should be made through an initial series of public Bahá’í talks followed by regular meetings and instruction by a resident teacher of any nucleus which might be formed as a result of the public talks. Mrs. Helen Inderlied of Binghamton moved to Syracuse for the winter and rented an apartment where such instruction classes could be held.
A budget of $85.00 was granted by the National Teaching Committee to cover costs of hall rental and publicity for the public meetings and also to help out in a small way the extra expenses of the resident teacher. Up to the present time $50.00 of this has been received and used for these purposes.
On the evenings of Nov. 3rd, 4th and 5th, Mrs. Dorothy Baker gave three public addresses to good audiences. Her subjects were “Government Looks Ahead,” “Religion Plays Its Part,” and “The Conquest of the West.” These were given at the Hotel Syracuse. A week later the management of the Hotel Syracuse donated the use of a smaller room for a second series of three talks given by Mr. Kenneth Christian of Morrisville, N. Y. As a result of these two series of public talks a group of about 20 people were interested in the Faith to the extent of attending meetings at the apartment of Mrs. Inderlied on one or more occasions. Such meetings have been held twice a week ever since with an average attendance of about ten. The group includes a number of people connected with Syracuse University. Many phases of the Faith have been presented from time to time by Mr. Christian, Mr. and Mrs. Belcher and occasionally other friends from nearby places. One of the group has registered as a believer and it is expected that these efforts will in time result in a strong Syracuse community.
While on this same trip Mrs. Baker spoke in three places where teaching work is being carried on by nearby Bahá’í communities and thereby stimulated interest and progress at Hamburg (Buffalo) , Canandaigua (Geneva) and Norwich (Binghamton). The meeting at Hamburg was entirely arranged by Mrs. Edith McLaren, the one resident Bahá’í.
Mrs. Baker also visited Little Falls where Mr. and Mrs. Harry Ford are carrying on a most interesting experiment in indirect teaching through a public peace forum which is drawing together a large number of leaders of thought in that city. This forum, which averages 100 in attendance, has had several Bahá’í speakers on its platform—Mr. Mountfort Mills, who opened the series of lectures, Mrs. Frances Stewart and Mr. Stanwood Cobb. Besides the forum Mr. and Mrs. Ford also have a smaller, more intimate group to whom they speak directly of the Faith. It was this group who heard Mrs. Baker and also Kenneth Christian, Mr. Louis Gregory and the Bahá’í forum speakers.
During February Mr. Gregory while visiting several Bahá’í communities in this region, also spoke most successfully to the study group in Syracuse and met several interested people in Canandaigua as well as meeting the Little Falls group already referred to.
During the year the Temple model loaned by the Teaching Committee was used by several Assemblies and also exhibited in the following places: several weeks at the Museum of Fine Arts at Syracuse followed by a lecture on the Temple by Mr. Allen McDaniel before the Society of Architects of Syracuse; several weeks at the Schenectady Museum followed by a Temple lecture given by Mr. McDaniel at the Museum and arranged by Miss Ella Quant, the one believer in Schenectady; and also several weeks at the Historical Museum at Auburn.
Early in September the model was also used in connection with a Bahá’í Exhibit at the New York State Fair at Syracuse. This exhibit sponsored by the Bahá’í Exhibits Committee, was designed by Mr. Carl Scheffler and built and installed by Rex and Mary Collison with the help in putting it up of Edward Belcher and Mehdi Firoozi. During the two weeks of the Fair the exhibit was in constant charge of one or more of the following: Ed Belcher and Ida Noyes from Binghamton, Elizabeth Brooks from Rochester and Mary Collison from Geneva. Among the many people who saw the exhibit about 100 names were given by people who wished to be notified of any future public Bahá’í lectures in Syracuse. This list was of course used when the series of public lectures was given in November. We were disappointed to find that there was almost no response from these people but they will be given another chance later. The repetition of the exhibit this coming summer will no doubt add to the teaching efforts in Syracuse and bear more fruit next year.
- MR. R. C. COLLISON, Secretary
- MRS. MARGUERITE FIROOZI
- DR. ALBERT D. HEIST
- MRS. MORRIS M. BUSH
- MRS. MINNIE SETZ
- MISS IDA NOYES
ONTARIO[edit]
The commencement of Bahá’í teaching work in Hamilton was the “adoption” of that city by the Spiritual Assembly of Toronto. Twice-monthly public meetings were begun, and speakers were Mrs. Marzieh Carpenter and Mrs. Dudley Blakeley. Later a series of public meetings and study classes was undertaken by Mrs. Howard Ives. In February, 1939, Mrs. Mary Barton of Winnetka arrived in Hamilton and remained for four months, undertaking the supervision of study classes and the confirmation of individuals. Occasional visits were made by F. St. G. Spendlove of Toronto. The
[Page 15]
newly-attracted friends in Hamilton were
encouraged to come to Toronto frequently, and when they expressed a desire
to accept the Teachings were added to the
membership of the Toronto Community.
In November, after consultation with the
Toronto Spiritual Assembly, the Hamilton group decided to elect its own officers and apply for group status. In October, after the departure of Mr. and Mrs.
Howard Ives from Toronto, Mrs. Doris
McKay began a series of monthly visits
to Hamilton and Toronto, and Mr. Willard McKay spent the weekend of March
2nd in Hamilton. The group now numbers four, with several applications
pending.
After consultation with the National Spiritual Assembly, the Spiritual Assembly of Toronto applied for its second representation in the Canadian National Exhibition, with a display of the Temple model lent by the Montreal Community exhibited in the effective setting designed by W. S. Maxwell. The Exhibition is the largest annual exhibition in the world, with the largest average daily attendance. As a result the name “Bahá’í” was brought to the attention of a substantial proportion of the visitors to the Exhibition, numbering more than a million and a half. One new Bahá’í was added to the Toronto Community, and the attendance at study classes and public meetings was improved. As the Exhibition is truly national in character, it is hoped that a knowledge of the Cause will be carried to all parts of the Dominion by returning visitors.
A teaching trip to Oshawa, Ontario, was made by Mrs. Howard Ives in the early summer. The Toronto Spiritual Assembly hopes to be able to undertake regular teaching activities in Oshawa in the future.
By: F. St. G. Spendlove, Chairman
WISCONSIN, ILLINOIS AND MICHIGAN[edit]
On July 15 a meeting of the members of the Regional Teaching Committee of Wisconsin, Illinois and Michigan was held in Chicago in the attractive rooms of the Chicago Bahá’í Center. Our subsequent meetings have been held there during the current year and we are most appreciative of this convenient place in which to hold our discussions. We immediately endeavored to formulate ways and means for assisting isolated believers, Bahá’í Groups and study-groups which constitute our particular responsibility in this region. As a preliminary survey, letters were sent to all people listed with us, inviting suggestions as to what form our help might take that might best serve their particular needs.
Almost unanimous were the replies in expressing desires for teachers prepared to give public talks or those who could remain for a considerable period of time, to teach and conduct study classes. As a result, members of the Regional Teaching Committee have traveled extensively, covering our entire region, visiting isolated believers, giving public lectures and, most worth while of all, remaining in some places for several weeks at a time, to encourage and help deepen the friends in their knowledge of the Faith.
Many of the isolated believers were limited in their supply of Bahá’í literature so some of the most essential books were secured and are now serving as a circulating library. They are sent by mail to be held for one month and are replaced by others as desired. We found too, that the isolated believers, deprived for the most part of association with fellow-believers, are full of questions regarding the teachings of their Faith. To answer these, we have secured the cooperation of some of the older believers who long to teach but are unable to absent themselves from their homes, to correspond with these isolated ones, answering their questions or explaining just where in the teachings the desired information may be found.
It was felt that the Regional Teaching Committee should sponsor exhibits of the Temple model at the various State fairs. Local Bahá’í Communities had already undertaken this in some places but we did plan for such an exhibit at the State fair in the State capitol at Springfield, Illinois. We were assisted in this responsibility by the Bahá’ís of the Urbana, Springfield and Peoria communities. These communities were happy to report, that with the help of Bahá’u’lláh, they were able to display the model in a particularly attractive place, the center of the large floricultural room. Surrounded at a little distance with beautiful cut-flower displays of all sorts, our lovely model was daily the center of attraction. It is estimated that a hundred thousand people passed through this room during the nine days of the fair. We feel that many, many hundreds were contacted in this way and heard the message of Bahá’u’lláh, as symbolized by the Temple, for the first time.
“How beautiful! What do you suppose it is?” were some of the questions and exclamations heard. “Have you seen it?” we would immediately respond. “That is the Bahá’í Temple at Wilmette, Illinois. It is open to the public daily during the summer months and on Sundays all the year round. We are sure you will enjoy a trip through it.” Thus with various questions and answers, and to the interested, pamphlets appropriate to their tastes, did three or four believers who daily served beside this most stimulating project, joyously tell the glad tidings of the advent of a Prophet of God come once again to this worn and weary world.
Later on, at their own initiative, the Bahá’í Group of Madison displayed a model of the Temple in the lobby of one of their leading hotels. Mrs. Sarah Walrath was invited to give a public talk upon the Temple and several people were interested and joined a study class as a result of this project. Newspapers gave this event considerable publicity. Among others who have contributed their time and ability to the work of this region, are Mr. Carl Scheffler, who together with Mr. Clarence Niss, have traveled far and wide through the three states. Mrs. Margo Johnson, who has labored valiantly in her home city of Batavia, Mrs. Virginia Camelon and Mrs. Ruth Moffett, who have served in many places.
Situated near the Temple as we are, we have many inquiries sent by mail regarding the history and beliefs of our Faith and send out much printed matter as well as personal letters in reply.
We take great happiness in announcing that two of our Bahá’í Groups have developed community status. Waukegan, Illinois and Madison, Wisconsin will be organized as Spiritual Assemblies on April 21st. Four new Bahá’í Groups in our region, Grosse Pointe and Kalamazoo, in Michigan, Antioch and Manitowoc in Wisconsin, enthusiastically anticipate their speedy growth and development.
- MRS. MARGERY MCCORMICK, Secretary.
- MRS. RUTH CORNELL
- MISS PEARLE EASTERBROOK
- MRS. EDNA KETELS
- MRS. BERTHA KIRKPATRICK
- MR. CHARLES REIMER
MARTHA L. ROOT IN INDIA AND BURMA[edit]
The Dewan (like a Prime Minister) of Indore who opened the Convention, Sir S. M. Bapna, invited Shirin and me to his home to tea. For twenty years he has tried to interest the people of Indore in establishing courses in the study of Comparative Religions in all the schools of Indore. He has had a textbook written and published for the children and another is being written for the boys and girls, and a third textbook on Comparative Religions for the College students. How we hope the Bahá’í Faith will be included in those textbooks! If you have any Bahá’í books that you think would help him, please send them. Thanks. His
[Page 16]
address is just Indore, India. He belongs
to one of the foremost families of Rajputana and Central India. His ideals are
most lofty and he has set his heart on
having these textbooks as perfect as possible—and representative of all the religions.
Our Bahá’í Faith was criticised by one ultra-orthodox group at the Convention. I answered it, Shirin answered it another time, and non-Bahá’ís championed our Faith! Really the criticism did no harm!
One man had a paper on the need of a great universal religion, and explained what it ought to inculcate. A great Hindu professor arose and said: “The Bahá’í Faith we have been hearing so much about in this Convention is a universal religion and it inculcates all your suggestions and more. The Bahá’í Faith is ready, why not accept it for a universal religion?” The man who had prepared this paper had not heard of the Bahá’í Teachings until he came to this Convention; he was very much impressed by the Message. It is remarkable how many Religious Conventions are being held in different parts of India, and the N. S. A. of India and Burma are invited to send, and do send, Bahá’í speakers to every one of them. The N. S. A. is very efficient and very, very spiritual; they work almost beyond human endurance and they are as united as one soul in nine bodies.
From Indore, Shirin and I came to Karachi arriving April 25. Here the N. S. A. of India and Burma held their annual Bahá’í Convention during Ridván. There was a stir throughout Karachi that week, every one was talking about the Bahá’í Faith. Everything was so well planned in advance both by the N. S. A. and the L. S. A. of Karachi. We had a tea for the journalists and our chairmen the day after our arrival. The Convention opened the following day, April 27. A great meeting was held in the largest hall in Karachi, Khalikdina Hall, that same evening. The man who became Mayor of Karachi a few days later was our Chairman. Mr. Abbas Ali Butt of Simla, Prof. Pritam Singh of Lahore and I spoke. April 28, the Mayor presided and Shirin Fozdar and I spoke at a public lecture in Theosophical Hall. Mr. H. Manji of Bombay also spoke. April 29, the L. S. A. of Karachi gave a great garden party, inviting 350 guests to Bahá’í Hall Gardens. It was a beautiful event and almost all religions were represented. Here, too, Abbas Ali Butt and I spoke. April 30, another public lecture was held in Theosophical Hall. Mr. Jamshed Mehta, Mayor who had been my Chairman when I was in Karachi in 1930, acted as Chairman. Prof. Pritam Singh and I were the speakers. Sunday, May 1, we spoke in a Jain Temple at 8.30 a.m. and in Sharda Mandir, a large school, at 6 p.m., and a great public meeting was held in Bahá’í Hall in the evening when the speakers were Abbas Ali Butt, Mrs. Hashmatullah of Delhi and myself. May 2 we were invited to speak at a public lecture arranged by the Parsis and held at Katrak Hall. The Managing Editor of “The Daily Gazette” presided. Mrs. Fozdar and I spoke. Some of the N. S. A. members and Mr. Manji spoke in a school at 6 p.m. These were only some of the events. Mr. Momenzadih gave tea for the delegates to meet the Iranian Consul and his wife. The L. S. A. rented a large bungalow next to Bahá’í Gardens as the home for all delegates during that week. The Bahá’ís had breakfasts and teas and dinners for the Bahá’í friends to meet one another and several people of Karachi had dinners or teas where we spoke informally. During the eight days the N. S. A. held their sessions.
Then the N. S. A. members left, and I began the task of printing my book Tahirah the Pure, Iran’s Greatest Woman. Mr. Isfandiar Bakhtiari helped me every day, always going with me to the printer. It was so difficult to get the accent marks, etc., and it has taken three months, but patiently at last it is finished, three thousand copies. It is announced in Appendix III that some of the copies have gold leaf letters—we couldn’t get the gold leaf, and I could not delay my scheduled tour any longer, so they are printed in two styles only, red with gold-dust letters and in blue paper covers. One thousand copies have just been mailed out. Fifteen hundred will be used in India. Very reverently I say it—my dream was to have the Báb, Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Shoghi Effendi and Tahirah go together, in this book, on a teaching tour around the whole world! A preacher preaches to a few hundred or thousands or tens of thousands, but a book can be a preacher for centuries and to millions yet to be born. I hope you will speak of Tahirah in women’s clubs, in universities and high schools, over the radio—just tonight a college boy of Karachi said to me: “I read the book yesterday and I could not sleep; I was thinking all night of the glory of Tahirah’s beautiful Life.” You will see that I tried to make the book complete for non-Bahá’ís, so they would know of the Cause. The book is a “Bahá’í teacher”! It has been sent to several rulers, statesmen, universities. I believe it will be translated into several languages.
During the three months here in Karachi, besides the book, I have spoken several times each week, or met people in small groups. In Bahá’í Hall there were two public meetings each week and one Youth Group meeting. I was invited to speak again in several societies and to some new organizations. Some of the Bahá’ís had groups in their homes, and I invited people to my place. The Mayor came and he invited us to his home and to several events where he was the guest of honor. He is a Muslim, a liberal Muslim, and he has read a number of our books. He asked me to speak in the discussions at the meeting in Municipal Corporation Court Hall which he called to form a Universal Peace Brigade in Karachi.
