Bahá’í News/Issue 138/Text
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| No. 138 | YEAR 97, BAHÁ’Í ERA | September, 1940 |
VITAL REQUIREMENTS OF SUPREMELY CHALLENGING HOUR[edit]
(The) long-predicted world-encircling conflagration, essential pre-requisite (to) world unification, (is) inexorably moving (to its) appointed climax. Its fires, first lit (in the) Far East, subsequently ravaging Europe (and) enveloping Africa, now threaten devastation both (in) Near East (and) Far West, respectively enshrining (the) world Center and (the) chief remaining Citadel (of the) Faith (of) Bahá’u’lláh. (The) Divinely-appointed Plan must (and) will likewise pursue undeflected (its) predestined course. Time (is) pressing. (The) settlement (of the) two remaining Latin Republics, (the) sounder consolidation through formation (of) firmly-knit groups in newly-opened territories, (the) provision (of) adequate means (for) ornamentation (of) last six faces (of) first story (of) Temple, stand out (as) vital requirements (of) approaching supremely challenging hour. (My) eyes (and) heart (are) anxiously, longingly turned (to the) New World (to) witness (the) evidences (of a) new, still more heroic phase (of) enterprise confidently entrusted (to) vigilant care (of the) American believers by (the) ever-watchful, powerfully-sustaining Master. (I) refuse (to) believe (that a) community so richly endowed, (so) greatly envied, (so) repeatedly honored, will suffer (the) slightest relaxation (of its) resolution (to) jeopardize (the) spiritual prizes painstakingly (and) deservedly won throughout (the) States (and) Provinces (of the) Republics (of the) Western Hemisphere.—SHOGHI RABBANI.
- Cablegram received July 21, 1940.
LETTER FROM THE GUARDIAN[edit]
In connection with the selection of particular photographs of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá for circulation among the friends, the Guardian strongly feels that no definite ruling should be laid down establishing the superiority or distinction of any particular photograph. The friends should be left quite free to use their individual independent judgment in this matter.
The Guardian does not advise your Assembly to authorize for the present the use of Bahá’í historical material in the radio program ...; nor does he think the time is ripe to translate and publish Bahá’í certificates of marriage and divorce. He prefers to wait until a sufficient number of Assemblies have been empowered to conduct legally these Bahá’í rites. When the time comes he will formulate the proper form of certificate for universal adoption by the American believers.
In connection with the formation of new Assemblies and the maintenance of their Assembly status, the Guardian wishes to reaffirm the general principle that only those who reside within the city limits of any given locality have the right to either vote or be elected as member of the Assembly, even though this may involve frequent dissolution of the Assembly owing to insufficient number of members. It will, on the other hand, serve as a stimulus to those outside these limits to establish a group and eventually an Assembly of their own. This principle should be closely adhered to, otherwise it will lead to confusion and overlapping.
Regarding the age of fifteen fixed by Bahá’u’lláh: this relates only to purely spiritual functions and obligations and is not related to the degree of administrative capacity and fitness which is a totally different thing, and is, for the present, fixed at twenty-one.
Regarding Naw-Ruz: if the vernal equinox falls on the 21st of March before sunset, it is celebrated on that day. If at any time after sunset, Naw-Ruz will then, as stated by Bahá’u’lláh, fall on the 22nd. As to which spot should be regarded as the standard, this is a matter which the Universal House of Justice will have to decide. The American N.S.A. need not therefore take any action in this matter at present.
- Haifa, May 15, 1940.
INFORMATION NEEDED[edit]
The Guardian has requested the National Spiritual Assembly to send him the original of the Tablet from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá published in Vol. I, pages 106-108 of the Tablets.
From the Archives Committee we learn that this Tablet, on the subject of the Mother of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, was revealed to Mr. Hans Christian Anderson, then of Racine, and the copy of the translation on file bears the notation: “Received from
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translator May 29, 1901.”
Mr. Anderson was later associated with the Bahá’í community of Los Angeles, and died in California some years ago.
If any of the believers can supply information as to the present location of this Tablet, it will be greatly appreciated.
“THE END OF THIS VALLEY[edit]
Beloved Friends:
The followers of Bahá’u’lláh have been given the privilege which, as the Master Himself declared, was the highest aspiration of the great souls of past times. Bahá’ís alone can understand the unfoldment of world events in accordance with a schedule and a consummation laid down by the Divine power and beyond the control of any earthly force. Bahá’ís alone can make a direct spiritual contribution to the new World Order which inwardly is the oneness of man and outwardly is a scheme of institutions and relationships consecrated to the Most Great Peace.
As we know from the statement made in The Goal of a New World Order, the beginnings of peace will have been achieved by 1963. By that date the Lesser Peace will have been established. After that date, the hosts of ‘Abhá will augment their mighty task of spiritual education until the whole earth is confirmed and The Most Great Peace realized.
In contrast to the present world outlook, such a consummation appears utterly impossible. Today violence rides the tempest and destruction hurls its fires from the clouds.
The supreme issue between faith in Bahá’u’lláh and theological belief or scientific conviction is that faith receives awareness of the Power behind all human events and transcending all human knowledge. The Bahá’í accepts revealed Truth as a mightier force than any combination of interests, beliefs and worldly authorities exerting economic or political influence. The Bahá’í rises above the temptation and the blindness of materialism. In his purity of motive he is permitted as it were to stand on the same height as truth itself.
Thus the Bahá’í feels secure and safe within the very whirlwind of violent struggle and change. He knows that the Plan will prevail, and that individuals, nations, races and classes cannot prevent, pervert nor exploit the Justice which Bahá’u’lláh has brought down from the Mountain of God. There is a limit placed upon evil and violence beyond which they cannot go. When the world has been purified for Truth, the denier’s sword will be broken and the schemes of the materialists brought to naught. The only liberty man has today is to choose whether he shall give his life to the destructive or to the constructive phase of the same Divine Plan. It is illusion to think that there can be any liberty asserted outside the dominance of His Will.
But to contribute our lives to the constructive phase of world transformation demands more than the passive reading of Sacred Writings or the mere acknowledgment that certain principles, like the continuity of Revelation, are true. We must be so transmuted by the Power itself that our lives are in spiritual movement and convey the ardor and the light of Truth.
Then will more and more believers arise and join the ranks of the Bahá’ís as they witness the effects of Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation on the lives of His followers. For the world is confused, weary and sick to death of words. Its healing depends upon a release of spiritual energies more potent than any other force encountered on earth. Are not many of the Guardian’s recent appeals directed to this point: that we deepen our spiritual lives, until Bahá’u’lláh can use us as instruments to impress His Will upon the whole World?
A PLEA FOR PERMANENT LOCAL ADDRESS[edit]
Many years ago the National Spiritual Assembly requested the local Assemblies, whenever possible, to establish a permanent address for correspondence, that changes in the office of Secretary or the address of the Secretary, might not interrupt the flow of correspondence, bulletins and Bahá’í News from the National body to the local Assembly and community.
In response to this request, a few Assemblies have taken a Post Office Box address for correspondence, and in other cases a local Bahá’í Center maintained year after year has provided the necessary continuity and permanence. However, with the great growth of Assemblies to the number of one hundred and two, the need for efficiency becomes urgent.
| ATTAIN NOBLER HEIGHTS
SHOGHI RABBANI
|
The plea is therefore renewed, that local Assemblies consult at their earliest opportunity on this question, and take some action toward assuring a more or less permanent address for correspondence. Counting changes of address of Secretaries, and changes in the office of Secretary, the National Spiritual Assembly is obliged to take account of, and duly report, as many as twenty corrections in the Assembly Roll each year.
Not only will a permanent address make it possible for the National Assembly to have addresses cut on stencils, and envelops and labels addressed in quantity by mechanical means, saving hours of clerical assistance, but there will be little or no further necessity for the friends to report the non-receipt of Bahá’í News. Besides, a permanent address will symbolize the continuity and institutional character of the local Assembly more effectively than a constantly-varying street number.
This plea is particularly timely at this time, when the Guardian’s instruction that only those resident in the civil community can be voting members of the Bahá’í community is bringing about many changes in long-established Assemblies.
SUGGESTIONS FOR BAHÁ’Í CORRESPONDENCE[edit]
The methods adopted for correspondence in a great body like the Bahá’í community have an increasing importance as our numbers steadily increase. Local Secretaries, Committee Secretaries and individual believers are requested to adopt the following suggestions, based on experience and commonsense.
- Every communication to be headed with the date and the address of the writer. It is not enough to see that the address is on the envelop. The National Assembly files letters, not envelops.
- If the writer is writing in an official capacity, the letterhead should indicate this, even if the name of the Assembly or Committee is inserted in handwriting.
- If the writer is acting for a Committee, do not use the letterhead of the local Assembly and viceversa.
- If possible, write separate letters
about matters which represent different
classes of activity; for example, one
might be writing about local Assembly
matters, Regional Committee matters and
matters to be referred to other National
Committees.
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- The standard letterhead size of 8½ by 11 inches is best for official correspondence, and should not be exceeded. Letters from individuals need not conform to the business standard.
The purpose of these suggestions is twofold: to make for greater clarity and convenience in handling current correspondence, and for greater efficiency in filing.
Sometimes it is necessary to consult a letter written many years ago.
BAHÁ’Í CALENDAR[edit]
Nineteen Day Feasts: August 1 and 20, September 8 and 27.
Meeting of the National Spiritual Assembly: August 17, 18 and 19, at Green Acre, Eliot, Maine.
Bahá’í Summer Schools: Green Acre, weekly courses throughout August. Youth Week, August 12-17. Louhelen, General Session, August 11 to 18. Second Youth Session, August 21-25.
IN MEMORIAM[edit]
Grant, O my Lord, that they who have ascended unto Thee may repair unto Him Who is the most exalted Companion, and abide beneath the shadow of the Tabernacle of Thy majesty and the Sanctuary of Thy glory. Sprinkle, O my Lord, upon them from the ocean of Thy forgiveness what will make them worthy to abide, so long as Thine own sovereignty endureth, within Thy most exalted kingdom and Thine all-highest dominion. Potent art Thou to do what pleaseth Thee.—BAHÁ’U’LLÁH.
- Miss Sarah R. Windust, Chicago.
- Mrs. Rosamond Baxter, Dunedin, Florida.
- Mr. James Brittingham, New York.
Unit of Exterior Decoration, Main Story of Bahá’í Temple, Presented to Shoghi Effendi and Now on Exhibit in the Gardens Adjacent to the Holy Shrines
- Mrs. Aseyeh Dyar, Washington, D. C.
- Mrs. Mary Rabb, San Francisco.
- Mr. Ethelbert E. Jackson, Geneva, New York. (Correction of error in name as previously listed.)
ENROLLMENTS AND TRANSFERS[edit]
Phoenix, three; Teaneck, one; Boston, two: Chicago, one youth; Beverly Hills, two; Flint, two; Washington, one: Jacksonville, one; Baltimore, two youth; Spokane, two; Pasadena, three; Los Angeles, two.
THE IMPORTANCE OF THE SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY[edit]
Among the qualifications of faith accepted by every Bahá’í is “Full recognition of the station of the Forerunner, the Author, and the True Exemplar of the Bahá’í Cause,” but how many of us can actually claim full recognition? Would we not be blinded by a Light more brilliant than any sun if we gazed directly at it rather than saw it by reflection?
One of the signs of Revelation is the power to change the prevailing society. This sign is of surpassing importance today, when the whole chain of Revelation is to be consummated by the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh.
Let us think of the institution of the local Spiritual Assembly as a pillar of the world civilization of the future—as Bahá’u’lláh’s own instrument for bringing in the new qualities and the new capacities which mankind needs in order to live in a condition of peace. Bahá’í institutions are identified with justice, and to reflect that quality the members of the Assembly must realize that a Bahá’í institution progresses by the sacrifice of its members’ personal interests and opinions.
With one hundred and two local Assemblies existing in North America at present, there are nine hundred and eighteen souls called upon to be an active and responsible part of the structure of the Faith. The development, the capacity and the consecration of this great body of administrators is of vital importance to the welfare of the Cause. These believers are, first of all, responsible for knowing the Bahá’í teachings concerning the origin, nature and functions of a local Spiritual Assembly.
“In the Most Holy Book is revealed:
‘The Lord hath ordained that in every city a House of Justice be established wherein shall gather counsellors to the number of Baha, and should it exceed this number it does not matter. It behooveth them to be the trusted ones of the Merciful among men and to regard themselves as the guardians appointed of God for all that dwell on earth. It is incumbent upon them to take counsel together and to have regard for the interests of the servants of God, for His sake, even as they regard their own interests, and to choose that which is meet and seemly. Thus hath the Lord your God commanded you. Beware lest ye cut away that which is clearly revealed in His Tablet. Fear God, O ye that perceive.’
“Furthermore, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá reveals the following: ‘It is incumbent upon every one not to take any step without consulting the Spiritual Assembly, and they must assuredly obey with heart and soul its bidding and be submissive unto it, that things may be properly ordered and well arranged. Otherwise every person will act independently and after his own judgment, will follow his own desire, and do harm to the Cause.’
“ ‘The prime requisite: for them that take counsel together are purity of motive, radiance of spirit, detachment from all else save God, attraction to His Divine Fragrances, humility and lowliness amongst His loved ones, patience and long-suffering in difficulties and servitude to His exalted Threshold. Should they be graciously aided to acquire these attributes, victory from the unseen Kingdom
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of Bahá shall be vouchsafed to them. In
this day, assemblies of consultation are of
the greatest importance and a vital necessity. Obedience unto them is essential
and obligatory ...’ ” (Bahá’í Administration, p. 21.)
Before we consider the duties and functions of an Assembly, it is imperative that we immerse ourselves in the spirit of these words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá which the Guardian brought to our attention in one of his earliest communications. It is the “victory from the unseen Kingdom” for which every local Assembly must pray unceasingly these days.
TEACHING ACTIVITIES IN NORTH AMERICA[edit]
Beloved Friends:
Could the words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá carry more weight than at this present hour: “... This world-consuming war has set such a conflagration to the hearts that no word can describe it. In all the countries of the world the longing for Universal Peace is taking possession of the consciousness of men. There is not a soul who does not yearn for concord and peace. A most wonderful state of receptivity is being realized. This is through the consummate wisdom of God, so that capacity may be created, the standard of the oneness of the world of humanity be upraised, and the fundamentals of Universal Peace and the divine principles be promoted in the East and the West.”
Our Canadian pioneers, undaunted by war conditions and “the deepening pessimism and preoccupation with day-to-day events,” are strengthening the Faith throughout the Prairie Provinces. On April 2nd a conference was held in Calgary by Doris Skinner, Katherine Moscrop, and Mrs. Pine. The last-named, a resident of Vermilion, had seen no Bahá’ís for ten years; through this stimulation she is now actively spreading the Faith and has placed books in the public library. Doris Skinner has been invited to speak to a new group in Vulcan, and in Edmonton she has another excellent contact. Meanwhile, Mrs. Moscrop proceeded to Regina for another stay of two months; in May she held her first fireside of ten persons, and at least five other meetings are planned. She has also been asked to Summerberry to introduce the Faith.
Rowland Estall has summarized his year’s work in Winnipeg, through which over 300 people in 9 public meetings (including clubs and churches) heard a comprehensive introduction to the Teachings, some 10 firesides were held, a study group met for several months, and one believer enrolled. Commenting on a comparison of work achieved in an organized Bahá’í community with his progress in Winnipeg Mr. Estall writes: “I begin to think that I must have been asleep before, and that probably most believers in the Community (and perhaps in most other Communities) were too ...”
In British Columbia, Austin Collin is pioneering in Vernon and Penticton, while the Armstrong group meets weekly.
Glowing reports of Toronto have come from Doris McKay, who spent ten days in May in that city and Hamilton. “I have never known such a high degree of capacity as that community are showing forth. I feel they have a great destiny ...” Thirteen meetings were held in the two localities, and in Toronto almost fifty new people were met in fireside, youth, and public meetings. Hamilton has invited Mrs. McKay to return as often as possible, to strengthen the work of our new Assembly.
Further north Honor Kempton, through an accident in which her ankle was broken, has discovered what “grand people there are in Anchorage.” She is now up and making splendid progress in widening her contacts. A minister has begun active opposition. “I am definitely marked in town and I am glad of it. The time has come, I feel, for me to take my stand for the Bahá’í Faith, especially in these difficult and stormy times. Nothing can hurt me and no matter how they try to hurt the Book Cache, it will only serve to deepen my own experience of the confirmations from unseen sources.” Miss Kempton has referred many Alaskans, traveling Outside, to Bahá’ís in various cities.
Betty Becker moved to Sitka in February, leaving five or six persons in Juneau deeply interested in the Faith, with some fifty others informed of it. She is now holding firesides in this new area, and has the cooperation of the local editor to publish articles when “we feel the time is appropriate.”
Moving to the South, we note many encouraging reports. In New Orleans about eleven are attending the Friday night meetings of Fred Babo and Dorothy Logelin; recently all drove to Covington for a meeting at Marion Little’s, “the largest single meeting of people interested, almost to the point of declaration, held in this section.... At last the thick ice of indifference is cracking and melting perceptibly toward the Cause.” A new believer, Rex Naugle, Jr., is radio’s Vagabond Poet.
An isolated believer of Greenwood, Miss., Mrs. Evelyn Bivins, was able as delegate to the Mississippi Congress of Parents and Teachers to bring the Bahá’í program before the conference as the blueprint for world society. She is now planning a radio series as “an introduction to the Cause” to succeed her program, Parent’s Forum.
In February Allen McDaniel visited West Virginia, where he addressed the West Virginia Society of Professional Engineers in Charleston, and later spoke to a local chapter of this organization in Huntington. About eighty men in Charleston heard his Temple talk with slides. Public meetings were also held in both cities with fine publicity. In May Mason Remey did fruitful work in public presentations of the Faith in the two cities, also making interesting contacts. Our pioneers, Harold Hunt and the Dahls, are “encouraged and making progress.” Exhibits of the Temple model are now planned, and speaking dates for the coming year with the Charleston West Side Women’s Club have been obtained for Mr. Cobb, Mr. McDaniel, and Mr. Dahl.
Charles Mason Remey recently completed a tour by trailer coach of the Southern States, during which stops for meetings and contacts were made in Augusta, Ga.; Charleston, S. C.; Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Daytona, Palm Beach, Miami, Orlando, and Pine Castle, Florida; Atlanta, Ga., Knoxville and Nashville, Tenn.; Indianapolis; Huntington and Charleston, W. Va. Among his interesting comments are the following from Nashville: “There is a very beautiful and fine Assembly there well supported by superior types of both the colored and white races. During the four days I was in Nashville there were two meetings in the homes of believers, one large meeting in the Chapel of Fiske University and another in the Industrial and Agriculture College for the colored ... with about 1,100 students and faculty.... I also met Prof. Bromfield’s class in the study of religion at Fiske University ... and talked with Dr. Jones, President of the University ...”
Olivia Kelsey has moved to Louisville, where a program on May 23rd was attended by twelve, including a Swedenborgian minister. A local reporter has prepared an article on the Faith for the Sunday Magazine section.
Three public meetings were arranged in Daytona, Florida, in March and April by Winifred Richards and Mrs. Guy, who plan to continue the plan weekly. They have also placed books in public libraries of Daytona, Daytona Beach, and Ormond. In West Palm Beach a Miami believer, Miss Esther Webster, is now living and with Nellie Hope Lloyd is conducting weekly classes. Hollywood (Fla) has become a center for contacts with individuals from all parts of the country, through Mrs. Bodmer who resides permanently
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at the Hollywood Beach Trailer
Park. Two colored friends have accepted
the Cause in Columbia, S. C., and have begun a children’s group, according to Maud
Mickle who will return there in the Fall.
In Hot Springs, Ark., the first believer of
that State, Miss Roberta Wilson, has registered through Rezsi Sunshine.
We have received the story of Salt Lake City’s winning in one brief year through the solid and faithful efforts of our pioneers, Mr. and Mrs. William Sears, and a whirlwind campaign for Mrs. Ruth Moffett, with support of Mr. Reimer. From Feb. 18th to March 28th fifty-seven public lectures were given by Mrs. Moffett at the Hotel Newhouse, with a total attendance of almost a thousand. The Temple model was displayed at the Hotel during this entire period, remarkable radio advertising was procured by Mr. Sears without cost, over a thousand books and pamphlets were distributed, and seven lectures on the Faith for clubs and radio were arranged. The result was a study class of twenty-five which met thrice weekly, until enough students had enrolled to organize a Local Spiritual Assembly. This class, a fireside, and a youth group are carrying on.
Two new Bahá’ís have registered in Fargo, N. D., through the efforts of Marguerite Breugger and Charlotte Wright, who arranged weekly classes throughout the winter. About fifty persons have learned of the Cause and many are reading. “I have spoken at the Unity Center here many times at the request of their leader,” writes Mrs. Breugger; she has also been invited to address a Lodge. This summer the Faith will be introduced to Columbus, Mont., by Mrs. Wright. Meantime in Bismarck a Bahá’í library has been maintained by a new believer, and three have accepted the Cause, according to Mrs. Breugger.
Lorrol Jackson has forwarded the registration of Mrs. Joan Palmer of Butte, Mont., and tells of a youth group and children’s class just started by Irene and Eveline Caldwell, the latter only fifteen years old. Mrs. Helen Wilkes of Seattle stopped en route from Convention, giving splendid help. The Temple exhibit at the Butte Art Center earlier in the spring was a great success, and the director commented “that groups are coming in from the little towns around just to see the Temple.” Publicity was sent out to some 75 newspapers in the State.
Marvin Newport, on leaving Cedar Rapids in April, had enrolled two believers and attracted some nineteen students: he will return in a few weeks. During his six-months’ teaching effort, 26 classes were held with an average attendance of eight, 17 civic and religious groups were addressed, and over 300 persons read
Another View of Unit of Temple Exterior Decoration Placed by the Guardian in the Gardens on Mount Carmel
Bahá’í literature. Mr. Newport won the
friendship of one minister, was publicly
attacked by another.
Gertrude Struven is also teaching in Iowa, having visited Davenport, Moline and Rock Island, Ill., five times last winter. “A very good group, quite promising” of about twelve students has developed, with the active aid of a young Australian Bahá’í, Jim Heggie, now studying at the Palmer School.
Ruth Moffett has forwarded the enrollment of Mrs. Helen McLaughlin of Independence, Iowa, thereby increasing the number of believers to six. Registrations have also come from Mr. and Mrs. George Worthington, members of a class started in Fort Wayne, Ind., by Mrs. Moffett. During the past year this energetic teacher conducted 265 Bahá’í lectures and classes in twenty cities of six States, addressed 19 non-Bahá’í organizations and gave two radio talks. She was able to start three Bahá’í groups in Iowa and contribute remarkably in Salt Lake City.
Thrilling news from the McNallys of Providence, R. I., is the registration of Angela Morgan, American poetess and author of those lines so well-known to Bahá’ís—“To be alive in such an age ...” A conference of New England Bahá’ís was held in Providence on March 31st, which included the first public presentation of the Faith in that city.
Since Convention the activities of the Milwaukee Assembly in “pioneering at home” and planning a “Fireside Night” have passed into Bahá’í history. So successful was the scheme whereby every believer held a fireside on the same night, that the Convention recommended similar action for the entire country.
The annual report of the New York City Assembly is a fascinating portrayal of the program which a large community may sponsor. Its Bahá’í Center is always busy: weekly public lectures attracting 150 people; a teacher’s class; prayers daily at noon; discussion groups; a children’s class based on Bahá’í lessons, handicrafts and entertainments; special public meetings arranged on Inter-Racial Unity, presenting Bahá’í speakers coupled with such personalities as Lyman Beecher Stowe, Roy Wilkins, editor of “Crisis,” Joel Rogers, negro historian, and Bruce Wendell, negro pianist; Esperanto classes (the Lidja Zamenhof Studrondo); and National Nights for Latin Americans arranged by the Amity Committee.
This last-named Committee consists of twelve members representing every minority element of the community. Deciding to concentrate on Latin American work, the members arranged monthly programs including these features: “a speaker of the country chosen who would command attention and respect among his countrymen residing in New York,” “an exhibition of typical paintings and drawings portraying the contemporary art life and feeling,” a travel film, music “in song and dance form,” “some light refreshment typical of the country,” a Bahá’í chairman to make a brief statement of the Faith. “These meetings have been brilliant successes, the Hall filled to capacity, over 50 per cent of the audience
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being of the Latin American country presented.... We strongly urge
other communities with large foreign
elements to attempt these programs as
part of their teaching work ...” New
York reminds us, however, that such
plans require careful groundwork, while
contacts should be made only by “members who are skilled in dealing with delicate situations calling for tact and instant discrimination.”
Charged with Regional responsibility for Long Island and Westchester, New York reports three Groups functioning in New Rochelle, Larchmont, and Armonk. There are also public meetings in Brooklyn, and some fifteen firesides throughout the City. The Assembly also maintained the Bahá’í Booth at the World’s Fair. This is by no means a complete record; in every field the New York believers were extraordinarily active, and have set a high standard for Bahá’í teaching in this country.
We long to share every item of news from our co-workers; yet the fact that the deeds of the American believers have at last outstripped the limits of our space is surely a thrilling sign. For “these souls are the armies of God and the conquerors of the East and the West!”
URGENT CALL FOR INTER-AMERICA PIONEERS[edit]
The virgin field of Latin America is calling. The time has come, and the need of Pioneers for this field is uppermost. The vibrant call given in “The Advent of Divine Justice” is ringing through the Bahá’í world. Every Bahá’í that hears it, answers, deep in his heart: “Here am I, Here am I,” and many, overlooking everything, try to put this answer into practice.
It is because of this fervent response that the Inter-America Committee feels it must point out a few of the conditions that should be considered by those preparing themselves for this important work.
Besides the obvious need of deep understanding of the Bahá’í teachings and knowledge of the Spanish language, the pioneer must be able to present our glorious Faith with utmost tact, keeping always in mind that Bahá’ís do not mix in politics and being careful not to antagonize the ruling classes, for this might close doors before any effective work is done.
Pioneers should study carefully the fundamentals of the Catholic and Protestant Churches to be able to present the Bahá’í teachings as the glorious culmination of the teachings of Christ, as well as of the teachings of all the other Manifestations of God, and to answer clearly and convincingly any questions made by the Catholics and Protestants that form the majority of the inhabitants of the Latin American Countries.
The pioneers should also be prepared to overcome by their universal love, unselfishness and the complete absence of national, racial and social prejudices the rather unfavorable impression given by some investing companies, business men, tourists and even some of the missionaries sent from this country to Latin America.
The Inter-America Committee will gladly help, with all the information at its disposal, any inquirer intending to volunteer for this most important pioneer work. The Inter-America Committee numbers among its members Mr. Octavio Illescas who is a native of Peru and a graduate of the University of Minnesota and therefore well qualified to offer the most valuable advice to those contemplating service in this glorious field. Beside Mr. Illescas there are several who have visited South America and Mexico and the West Indies and Pioneers are urged to communicate with the committee for all particulars. Correspondence until further notice should be addressed to the chairman, Mrs. S. W. French, at 786 Chester Ave., San Marino, California.
RACE UNITY[edit]
Bahá’í communities everywhere, in accordance with the Guardian’s wishes about minorities as given us in the Advent of Divine Justice, are attempting to spread the Bahá’í Faith to minority groups living in their vicinity. Recently we have learned of the acceptance of two members of the Indian race by the Milwaukee Assembly. On May 7th the Milwaukee Bahá’í Assembly sent the following message to the Guardian: “Admitted today full-blooded Oneida Indians man woman and American wife Fired to spread cause Indians pray Success.” Shoghi Effendi replied as follows: “Assure Welcome Delighted Praying Increasing Success.” This is a thrilling piece of news for all of us, for we recall ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s words in the Tablets of the Divine Plan: “You must attach great importance to the Indians, the original inhabitants of America. For these souls may be likened unto the ancient inhabitants of the Arabian Peninsula, who, prior to the Revelation of Muhammad, were like savages. When the Muhammadan Light shone forth in their midst, they became so enkindled that they shed illumination upon the world. Likewise, should these Indians be educated and properly guided, there can be no doubt that through the Divine teachings they will become so enlightened that the whole earth will be illumined.” In other parts of our country, in Los Angeles, Albuquerque, Phoenix, and Chicago, contacts are being made with the Indian groups. We learned recently that the Blackfeet Indians in Montana have been presented seven Bahá’í books for their library at Browning, Montana. A letter welcoming these Bahá’í books has been received from the Blackfeet Indian Agency.
Many Bahá’í Assemblies have conducted interesting race unity programs this winter. In Pasadena, California, “Interracial Panel Chats” were conducted once a month at the Bahá’í Center. Mr. Ellison writes: “The term ‘Panel Chat’ is used instead of discussion group in order to avoid lengthy dissertations which might cause misunderstanding. Since interracial groups, Bahá’ís and non-Bahá’ís, participate, everything is done to keep a spirit of amity. The purposes of the meetings are to bring about Race Unity, to acquaint new people with the Cause, to bring to the attention of the Bahá’ís those people in the fields of Science, Medicine, Social Welfare, Education, Recreation, Engineering, Industry, Cultural and Vocational pursuits—who are more or less fulfilling the practical application of the prophecies of the Teachings in their daily work.”
Peoria, Illinois, reports a race unity banquet held January 25 in a large dining room of the Peoria Women’s Club. There were about 100 people present including many representatives of various races and nationalities. The program was as follows:
Vocal Solos—Mrs. Esther Bush | |
Deep River | Harry T. Burleigh |
Steal Away | Will M. Ramsey |
Address—Foundations of Human Oneness | Mrs. Dorothy Baker |
Cielito Lindo | Arr. by L. Nuno |
La Golondrina | Arr. by J. Rosamunde Johnson |
Noche de Ronda | Maria Teresa Lara |
| (Each number was introduced by Damasco Harnandez, Mexican artist who
teaches at Bradley College.) | |
Address—Adventuring in Race Unity | Mr. Louis Gregory |
Community Song | America |
We are reprinting this here because it
may offer helpful ideas to other Bahá’í
communities who may wish to conduct
similar meetings. Peoria writes that their
dinner has brought them remarkable results. One confirmation came about
[Page 7]
through this gathering. The Bahá’í community as a whole developed a new fire
of enthusiasm and a clearer understanding of the importance of human oneness.
Mrs. Cox writes: “The effect of the effort
on the race unity committee was most remarkable. In practical experience and in
experience in working together the committee did not begin the project with
many advantages. Enthusiasm gave birth
to great effort, however, and the very
consciousness of lack of ability made it
necessary to turn to Bahá’u’lláh with
trust and confidence. Fine consultation
and cooperation within the committee,
and with other members of the community, close contact with the Assembly,
too, grew out of this situation. Apparently there were some wasted steps, many
persons had to be invited before a few
could be found who cared to attend, etc.—but the result of application of ardor,
prayer and coordinated effort was proof
that the aid of Bahá’u’lláh comes to those
who work in His Light.”
Miami, Florida, has recently established a race unity committee. Chicago again held a very successful race amity banquet this spring. New Haven, Conn., has been contacting the Negro race by visiting about fifty homes during the winter and giving the Message personally to the occupants of these homes. The Race Unity Committee would like to hear what your community is doing. Have you perhaps new methods or techniques to suggest by which minority groups may be reached? Please write us of your activities so that we may share your experiences and ideas with all the Bahá’ís.
LIBRARY REPORT[edit]
A number of librarians have reported in the newspaper recently that there is an increasing demand for books along spiritual lines. The time is ripe for placing a basic Bahá’í book in as many libraries as possible during the coming year. Those who think they have little teaching capacity might render the Cause a great service by placing a basic book in their own local libraries. It would be interesting to know how many of the friends first contacted the Cause through library books. Such information would stimulate us to greater library pioneering.
Reports coming to this Committee from all over the country show that the teaching committees, assemblies and groups are working ardently to contact more libraries. Projects have been launched in New Jersey and Massachusetts to place a copy of Esslemont in fifty new libraries. The New York Assembly has just placed an Esslemont in every public library in greater New York. It is
Bahá’í Temple Model Exhibited in Knox Flower Shop, Helena, Montana, January, 1940
most important that the books are kept
in constant circulation to keep them on
open shelves and to create a demand for
further Bahá’í literature. Encourage
your friends to borrow books from the
public libraries instead of lending your
personal copies.
An excerpt from a recent letter from Duncan McAlear, member of the N. E. Regional Teaching Committee states: “The Bahá’í Faith loses prestige when our books are not found on local library shelves. On securing the New England names from the World’s Fair, we found to our chagrin that more than half of the people came from towns where we had no Bahá’í books in libraries, and therefore lost a good point of contact.”
Do not overlook the importance of placing books in Hebrew libraries. Rabbi Falk, Regional Director of the Union of American Hebrew congregations, wrote to a member of this committee some time ago, saying, “Many of our older classes in our religious schools conduct courses in Comparative Religions and I know that they would welcome information about the Bahá’í Faith.” We have a number of copies of Advent of Divine Justice (fabricoid) for presentation to Hebrew libraries, and will include another title or two from our regular list.
We now have quite an impressive list of colleges and universities that have accepted sets of Bahá’í books. If the friends contact any students from leading
[Page 8]
schools, do not hesitate to send them
along to their own libraries for further
information on the Bahá’í teachings.
AFIELD WITH OUR REGIONALS[edit]
Although the Regional Teaching Committees have not as yet been organized for 1940-41, post-Convention news is proof that the work goes on, and in that very spirit which ‘Abdu’l-Bahá enjoined for the progress of the Divine Plan: “In short, O ye believers of God! Endeavor ye, so that you may take hold of every means in the promulgation of the religion of God and the diffusion of the fragrances of God.”
The New England Committee has recently sent to all its Groups and isolated believers copies of the Victory Tablet and of a prayer of Bahá’u’lláh (p. 14 of Prayers and Meditations). “It has been suggested that Bahá’ís might do well to ... invite their neighbors and friends in each week for an hour of prayer for the establishment of Universal Peace.” A new Group has been formed at Hamden by withdrawals from New Haven, and believers have transferred to Wells, Maine, and Pittsfield, N. H. The Temple model was exhibited at the University of Maine in May, went to Norwich, Conn., on June 10th, and will next be routed to New London. Bates and Bowdoin Colleges have asked tor the model next year. In Springfield Mrs. Bacon gave a week’s radio broadcast each morning, beginning May 27th, on subjects related to the Faith. The annual picnic of the Springfield Assembly was scheduled June 16th, with Harlan Ober as speaker, and as usual all the New England friends were invited.
The Committees for Kansas and Missouri continued in May its placements of Dr. Esslemont’s book in public libraries, accompanied by book reviews in local papers. Earlier in the Spring placements had been made in Dodge City, Kansas; St. Charles and Lexington, Missouri. Miss Howell now reports that books have been accepted in Jefferson City and Sedalia, Mo.; and Hutchinson and Emporia, Kans. The librarian of Missouri Teachers College has requested any available Bahá’í literature, and Miss Howell observed that bound volumes of World Order Magazine in this library have “been checked out more than the Bahá’í books in any other library I have visited in this region.”
The Committee for California, Nevada and Arizona is making fine use of the traveling library in conjunction with its teaching effort in San Diego. (There are two such libraries, containing twenty books and eight study outlines, now in use by Regional Committees.) As a result of a fireside for twelve new persons in early June, addressed by Mrs. Beulah Lewis, a non-Bahá’í home has been opened for monthly meetings. Southgate has now become a Group and Bakersfield is planning to do so. Since the organization of six new Local Spiritual Assemblies in California this year, our Regional Committee faces almost a virgin territory!
It is our hope that these events are but a foreshadowing of incomparable successes in the coming months. May isolated believers, Bahá’í Groups, and Regional Committees weld their efforts to the Guardian’s goal: a Spiritual Assembly in every State and Province of North America by 1944!
“... All the regions in the estimation of the True One are one region and all the cities and villages are ideally equal and similar to each other. Neither holds distinction over another. All of them are the fields of God and the habitation of the souls of men.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá.)
CHILD EDUCATION[edit]
“O Friend! In the garden of thy heart, plant not but the rose of love and from the nightingale of desire and yearning loosen not thy hold. Treasure the companionship of the righteous and withdraw theyself from fellowship with the ungodly.” (Hidden Words.)
How, a mother asks, can I teach my child to distinguish between desirable and undesirable companions? How can I teach him to ignore outward appearances such as color of skin, poverty, physical disabilities and to see rather only spiritual qualities among his associates? My son often finds disobedient, objectionable children very exciting and amusing. He frequently imitates them in his own behavior.
Perhaps the answer to this mother might be put into a single word—appreciation. If, for example, we want children to distinguish between good and poor music, we begin early to expose them to good music and thus lay a foundation for a true appreciation of music. Later when they hear all sorts of music, they will be able to distinguish between the good and the poor.
Coming back to our small boy, we may say that if he is going to appreciate real values in human relationships, he must be taught this appreciation early. Those who are with him while he is young, must endeavor to show forth the attributes of God. The child must be treated honestly, fairly, kindly and sympathetically. The Golden Rule must be the rule of the home in which he lives. He too must be expected to be as just in his dealings with others as they are with him. This includes his treatment of the grown-ups as well as children both older and younger than himself. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá has said: “There are also sacred duties of children toward parents; these duties are written in the Book of God, as belonging to God. The children’s prosperity in this world and the Kingdom depends upon the good pleasure of parents, and without this they will be in manifest loss.” (Star of the
[Page 9]
West, Vol. IX, page 91.)
Children should, of course, have companions early in life. Fortunately young children are not prejudiced against one another for any artificial reason. This comes later and these prejudices will be few or many depending upon the child’s appreciation of spiritual values. Children do show preferences among each other. These preferences may be determined by outward factors, as for example little Lupe’s fondness for Fanny because, as he expressed it, “Fanny has such yellowy hair.” However, children have an appreciation of deeper qualities and it is our duty as Bahá’í parents and teachers to intensify and expand this appreciation.
One must of course protect young children against companionships that are detrimental but later the child will be on his own responsibility to choose from a greater variety of children. If the child has been brought up in an atmosphere of love, justice and tolerance, he will resent hatred, injustice and intolerance. A child may go through a phase in which he seems to prefer the child whose objectionable behavior is more dramatic than that of others but this admiration is only on the surface. The child who has been given an early appreciation of spiritual qualities will recognize them and look for them in his companions. Like attracts like. This law functions in the animal kingdom among the various species and it functions also in the human kingdom where spiritual qualities are to be found.
We as adults must be ever ready to recognize the spiritual qualities we see developing in our children and appreciate them. This does not mean perpetual praise, which is of course objectionable, and may even act as a stumbling block to further spiritual development. Children naturally like to be singled out for special attention. However, it is well to teach them that real distinction lies in possessing spiritual attributes. Older children should memorize the following words given to us by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá:
“I desire distinction for you. The Bahá’ís must be distinguished from others of humanity. But this distinction must not depend upon wealth—that they should be more affluent than other people. I do not desire for you financial distinction. It is not ordinary distinction I desire; not scientific, commercial, industrial distinction. For you I desire spiritual distinction; that is, you must become distinguished in morals. In the love of God you must become distinguished from all else. You must become distinguished for loving humanity; for unity and accord; for love and justice. In brief, you must become distinguished in all virtues of the human world; for faithfulness and sincerity; for justice and fidelity; for firmness and steadfastness; for philanthropic deeds and service to the human world; for love toward every human being; for unity and accord with all the people; for removing prejudices and promoting international peace. Finally you must become distinguished for heavenly illumination and acquiring the bestowals of God. I desire this distinction among you. This must be the point of distinction for you.” (Promulgation of Universal Peace, page 185.)
When the child, then, has gained an appreciation of true values for himself and for all of mankind, he will have become truly discerning which is of tremendous importance in this prejudice-ridden world as we find it today.
WORLD ORDER MAGAZINE[edit]
The leading article for August, by George O. Latimer, is on the subject of The Lesser and the Most Great Peace. This theme is of the utmost importance, and Mr. Latimer’s presentation will be helpful to Bahá’í students and teachers. The subject of peace is further developed in the August number by Annamarie Kunz Honnold in a most interesting article, World Order: How?
What the editors hope is the first in an extensive series of contributions presenting the experiences and achievements of pioneers is To South America in 1919, edited by Helen Bishop from Martha Root’s diary notes.
The compilation by Mrs. Busey on The Divine Art of Living deals in Chapter V with Prayer and Meditation. Other contributions are: Bahá’í Answers to World Question, Book Review by Horace Holley, a Study Outline, and editorial comment, With Our Readers.
Specially featured is an excerpt from words of Shoghi Effendi entitled Universal Fermentation.
The editors note with gratification the increasing use of the magazine by groups as source of study material, and by active teachers as free literature.
BACK NUMBERS OF BAHÁ’Í MAGAZINE[edit]
The Publishing Committee has been authorized to announce a special offer on back numbers of Star of the West, Bahá’í Magazine, and World Order. These periodicals have been published through a combined period of thirty years, and make available valuable Bahá’í material not to be found elsewhere.
The Committee proposes that each believer, and especially the newer friends, consider carefully the importance of adding files of the magazine to his or her Bahá’í Library. It should be realized that when any issue is sold out, it will never again be available. Already some of the earliest numbers are entirely out of print.
The special price is 10c per copy, postpaid. On this basis, any Bahá’í can acquire his set of magazines gradually, five or ten copies at a time. The complete inventory as of August 1, 1940 is as follows:
Bahá’í Magazine, Star of the West
- Vols: I-III, March 21, 1910 to March 2, 1913. Nineteen issues per volume. Incomplete.
- Vols. IV-XII, March 21, 1913 to March 2, 1922. Nineteen issues per volume. Complete.
- Vols. XIII-XXV, March 21, 1922 to March, 1935. Twelve issues per volume. Complete.
World Order Magazine
- Vols. I-V, April, 1935 to March, 1940. Twelve issues per volume. Complete.
There are 444 individual issues, less those in the first three volumes no longer obtainable. At 10c per copy, a set can therefore be obtained for $44.40.
For those who wish their copies bound, the bound volumes can be obtained at the following special rate: Bahá’í Magazine, Vols. IV to XXV, $2.00 per volume. World Order, Vols. I to V, $2.00 per volume. The total cost of 27 bound volumes is therefore only $54.00 under the special rate.
The Publishing Committee is also authorized to present a special offer on a few complete files of World Unity Magazine, received by the Committee as a gift, at the rate of $15.00 per complete set of 90 single issues in the fifteen volumes.
CHILDREN’S COURSES[edit]
The courses for children prepared by the Child Education Committee are now sold only through the Publishing Committee.
Creation. How to present the theme of divine creation to small children. With pictures. Fifteen lessons. Per copy, 10c.
To Live the Life. Lessons and stories, with cut-outs of the Temple. Twenty-four lessons for children of six to ten. Per copy, 25c.
Bahá’í Principles. Lessons and stories with pictures to color. For children of twelve to fifteen. Per copy, 25c.
Comprehensive Study Outline for Children. In three parts, Creation, Progressive Revelation, Bahá’í World. Twenty-five lessons. For children in intermediate and upper grades. Per copy, 25c.
PUBLISHING ANNOUNCEMENT[edit]
Hidden Words. By bringing out a larger edition, the price has been reduced. Per copy, paper covers, 25c. Bound in fabricoid, per copy, 60c.
The Destiny of America. Bahá’í Reprint No. 6. From the last pages of the Guardian’s The Advent of Divine Justice. Pamphlet. Sold in lots of 100 only. Per hundred, $2.50.
Bahá’í Reprints. The previous five pamphlets in this series, which are selected by the National Spiritual Assembly for special use as free literature at this time, are as follows:
- No. 1, The Image of God, words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá about race unity. Per 100 copies, $2.00.
- No. 2, Christians, Jews, Muhammadans, words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá about the oneness of religion. Per 100 copies, $2.50.
- No. 3, Industrial Justice, words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá about the partnership of capital and labor. Per 100 copies, $2.00.
- No. 4, Religion a Living organism, words of Shoghi Effendi about the Bahá’í Faith as a foundation of new society. Per 100 copies, $2.00.
- No. 5, A Pattern for Future Society, words of Shoghi Effendi outlining the nature of the future world civilization. Per 100 copies, $1.50.
TEMPLE TEACHING[edit]
The Temple Guides Committee reports that during June 1864 visitors were guided through the House of Worship. In June, 1939 the number was 1478. The total from January 1 to June 30, 1940 was 5879, an increase of 1332 over the number who came during the same period last year.
During June nine large groups visited the Temple, seven of which were of sailors from the Great Lakes Naval Training Station on tours, sponsored by the YMCA of Waukegan, Illinois. These seven groups numbered 347.
The other two groups received in June included two teachers and 12 children from the Summer School of the Lincolnwood Public School, Evanston, and 14 adults from the Evanston YWCA.
It thus becomes apparent that the House of Worship is evolving into the most important teaching center in North America. In order to take advantage of this unique opportunity to receive the blessing conferred upon all who serve the Holy Edifice, more Temple guides are needed.
A class in practice guiding is held at the Temple all day on Friday of each week for those who wish to become Temple Guides. All who wish to become guides are invited to attend.
The following is an excerpt from a letter received by the Guide Committee from the National Spiritual Assembly. It shows the importance that body attaches to the work that the guides are doing in the Temple.
“The teaching work carried on at the Temple is clearly representative of the Cause to a degree exceeding the teaching work carried on anywhere else in North America. Those who apply for information about the Faith while visiting the House of Worship are justified in assuming that they are in touch with the vital spirit of the Bahá’í Faith. The National Assembly hopes that your committee can secure full cooperation from believers in the Temple area, and the members point out that the result of the world calamities must be the intensification of public interest in the Faith.”
The visitors to the Temple seem to be more favorably impressed with these Teachings this year than ever before.
It is a great privilege to serve by giving God’s Word to the world in God’s House. In June people from 29 different states and from the following foreign countries came to the Temple: Chili, Haiti, Toronto and Calgary, Canada, Philippines, China and Palestine. Those who can take part in this work are indeed fortunate.
PHOTOGRAPHS NEEDED FOR MAKING SLIDES[edit]
The National Spiritual Assembly has recently authorized the Archives and History Committee to prepare a series of fifty small, 2 x 2 inch, slides on the Temple. Most of these are copies of Mr. Allen McDaniel’s series of lantern slides. The small slides will be much less expensive, and can be shown in a kodascope type of projector.
This committee is also authorized to make a collection of photographs for conversion into slides on the following subjects:
- Views of the Holy Land, particularly of the Shrines in Akká and Haifa; also places of historic interest to the Cause in Iran.
- Photographs of the Bahá’í Schools, of Evergreen Cabin and Maiden House.
- Views of local Bahá’í centers, and of places of historic interest to the Cause in this country.
- Photographs related to the travels of Martha Root, Keith Ransom-Kehler, and May Maxwell.
- Photographs of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s travels in the United States and Canada.
The Archives Committee will be very
grateful if the friends who have such
photographs will loan them for copying.
The name of the lender should be written
on the back of each photograph, and, if
possible, a brief description should accompany each picture, indicating when
and where it was taken, names of people
shown, et cetera. Of course, if some of
the friends wish to make gifts of these
photographs to the Archives, this will be
very acceptable.
No snapshots should be sent which are not quite sharp and clear and which are not approximately 3 x 4 inches or larger in size. A prompt response on this request will mean that pioneer teachers and local assemblies may have such visual material as an aid to teaching within a few months. Please mail photographs to:
- Edwin W. Mattoon, Chairman
- 105 Sixth St., Wilmette, Ill.
