Bahá’í News/Issue 236/Text
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| BAHÁ’Í |  |
NEWS |
| No. 236 | OCTOBER, 1950 | YEAR 107 | BAHA’I ERA |
Delegates to the European Teaching Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark, 1950.
Message from the Guardian to the Third Bahá’í European Teaching Conference Copenhagen, Denmark[edit]
Extend heartfelt greetings (to the) attendants (at the) third European Teaching Conference convened (in the) capital city (of) Denmark. (My) heart (is) uplifted (in) thanksgiving (to the) Martyr-Prophet (of our) beloved Faith (on the) occasion (of the) first historic assemblage on Scandinavian soil, (on the) morrow (of the) centenary (of) His supreme sacrifice, representing diverse Bahá’í communities (of the) eastern and western hemispheres. (I) joyfully acknowledge (the) first evidences (of the) answer (to the) prayer (of the) Center (of the) Covenant voiced (in) His Tablet over thirty years ago, supplicating (that) holy souls be raised up (to) promulgate (the) Faith (in) northern lands. (I) recall (with) feelings (of) profound emotion Bahá’u’lláh’s own anticipation (of the) establishment (of) His Cause (in) lands (of the) extreme north (and) south through provision (in) His Most Holy Book (of the) specific ruling related (to the) ordinance (of) obligatory prayers. (I am) highly gratified (to) witness (the) far-reaching effect (of the) magnificent response (by the) American Bahá’í community (to the) memorable summons issued (by the) Herald (of the) Faith (in) His Qayyúmmu’l-Asmá’, calling (the) peoples (of the) West (to) forsake (their) homes (to) assure (the) triumph (of) God’s Cause. (I) welcome expansion (in) scope (of the) annual Conference through inauguration (of the) Summer School designed (to) prolong (the) sessions (of the) Conference, (to) stimulate (the) spirit (of) Bahá’í fellowship, (to) deepen understanding (of the) fundamental spiritual (and) administrative principles (of the) Faith, (to) fix (the) pattern (of) future independent national Summer Schools (in the) ten European goal countries. (I) appeal (to the) assembled representatives (of the) goal countries and through them (to the) entire body (of) believers (in the) respective homelands (to) rededicate themselves (to the) urgent tasks ahead (in the) course (of the) three coming years falling between (the) historic Centenaries (of the) Báb’s martyrdom (and the) birth of Bahá’u’lláh’s prophetic mission. Mindful (of the) struggles, sufferings (and) sacrifices (of the) heroes, saints, (and) martyrs (of the) Faith (in the) opening phase (of the) Apostolic Age (of the) Bahá’í Dispensation; fully aware (of the) circumstances attending (the) launching (of the) transatlantic project amidst (the) confusion (and) prostration afflicting (the) war-torn continent; heartened (by the) signal initial success achieved (in the) years immediately succeeding (the) inauguration (of the) project, let them, undaunted (by the) perils (of the) progressively deteriorating international situation, pursue relentlessly (their) allotted tasks through rapid increase (in) membership, effective promotion (of the) recently initiated extension work, consolidation (of) all administrative agencies, energetic dissemination (of) Bahá’í literature, closer collaboration (with) sister Communities (in the) European continent, greater awareness (of their) inescapable responsibilities, deeper understanding (of the) verities (of) Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation, (of) His Covenant, World Order, (and) above all, through constant daily effort aiming (at the) enrichment (of the) spiritual life (of the) individual, constituting (the) sole foundation whereon (the) stability (of the) structure (of) every Administrative edifice must depend.
Haifa, July 20, 1950.
“Regard this Message as Addressed to Each One Personally”[edit]
Cablegram from Shoghi Effendi
“(My) anguished heart (is) comforted (by the) unnumbered messages from communities, assemblies, groups, committees (and) individual American believers, replete (with) expressions (of) loving devotion, pledges (of) loyalty (to) ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Covenant, prayers (on) my behalf (and) assurances (of) rededication (in) service (to the) precious Faith.
(The) triple cord binding me (to the) American Community, outstanding in its affectionate (and) unfailing support (in the) course (of) my almost thirty years’ stewardship (to the) Faith (of) Bahá’u’lláh, (is) greatly reinforced. But for America’s multitudinous services (and) unparalleled record (of) achievements (my) burden (of) cares both past (and) present (would be) unbearable.
Far from complaining (of the) added weight (of) afflictions oppressing me (at) this hour (I) feel (I) cannot but welcome with feelings (of) thankfulness (and) humility such tribulations enabling me (to) taste (the) cup (the) Martyr-Prophet (of) our beloved Faith drained so heroically (a) hundred years ago.
Much as I desire (to) acknowledge separately all messages (I) regretfully find (the) task beyond (the) limits (of my) overtaxed strength. (I) ask dearly beloved friends (to) regard this message as addressed (to) each one personally, bearing (to) each (and) every one assurance (of my) constant awareness (of) their enfolding love (and) unfailing support as well as my everlasting gratitude (and) unalterable affection (and) immense pride (in) their unrivaled collective share (in the) worldwide furtherance (of the) Cause so dear, so precious to us all.”
Haifa, Israel.
September 12, 1950.
Calendar[edit]
Feast:
- October 16—‘Ilm—Knowledge
Anniversary:
- October 20—Birth of the Báb.
- Work suspended that day
Revised schedule for NSA Meeting:
- October 13, 14, 15
- November 30, December 1, 2, 3.
From the Guardian to the NSA[edit]
These are excerpts from a letter from the Guardian through Rúḥíyyih Khanúm to the NSA dated July 5, 1950:
Your letters, and those signed by other members of the Assembly, of September 29, 30; October 3, 4, 7; November 1 (three); December 15, 1949, and January 2, 11, 13; February 1, 2, 15; March 2, 3, 6; April 21 (two); May 8, (two), 24 (two), 25, 26; June 2, 4, 17 (three), 18 of 1950, as well as their enclosures, and material sent under separate cover, have been received, and our beloved Guardian has instructed me to answer them on his behalf.
He is very sorry that so much important correspondence has had to wait so long for an answer. It is only the last two weeks that he has been able to take up the question of his mail, due to the fact that the very serious illness of my father, since April 5, has kept us all in a condition of confusion and suspense for months. As it was seemingly a hopeless condition, and one most agonizing for us all to have to watch, it was impossible to concentrate for the time being on anything else. Thanks, however, to the mercy of Bahá’u’lláh, and the iron determination of the Guardian not to allow the builder of the Shrine to pass away at this time, Mr. Maxwell is now recovering, and our lives are getting back to normal.
During the winter, as you know, the Shrine work has been steadily going forward. This necessitated not only constant supervision on the part of the Guardian but also involved extensive excavations behind the original building in order to permit the arcade to fit around it. Shoghi Effendi himself, in order to economize and ensure the work was carried on in such a way as not to endanger the Shrine, spent many hours daily up in the gardens, superintending this work personally, which was very exhausting for him; and took up, with other problems, all his time last winter. On the 29th of last month the last stone of the arcade was set in position, and the effect of the first story, now entirely finished, is truly glorious.
The Guardian feels believers desiring to declare themselves are entitled to read the full text of the Master’s Will beforehand, and indeed, they should do so.
The increasing publicity the Temple is receiving, especially in the Chicago area, is very encouraging. Now that the arcade of the Shrine is finished, the believers should seek to get as much publicity as possible for this beautiful and interesting building, as it will serve to call the Faith to the attention of many people, especially those visiting or interested in Israel.
The Guardian regrets very much that he is not able to supply the friends with any new translations at present. The rapid expansion of the Cause, and the consequent tremendous increase in his correspondence, the building of the Shrine and all it entails, the upkeep and consolidation of the international Center, all not only keep him constantly occupied, but are sapping his strength and taking up all his time.
The Guardian considers it immaterial whether you use the term “Persia” or “Iran”.
Regarding Mr. —’s bequest to the Temple: your Assembly should inform his widow that, because he was not a Bahá’í, we cannot use his money for our purposes, as we consider our Faith and its institutions our free gift to humanity. You can, however, and indeed should, accept it for charity and expend it in his name.
Regarding holding the Latin America Conventions: all Bahá’í conventions must meet within the Riḍván period. He suggests the Central and South American conventions be convened for April 21st, or a day or two later, in order to permit North Americans to get back in time for their own Convention, if they desire to attend it.
He does not feel the By-Laws should be changed: what could be done is to insert a foot-note, explaining that, as the Bahá’í day begins and ends at sunset, the evening of March 20th would be considered as a legal date by us.
The purpose of the By-Laws is to clarify and strengthen the administrative legal functions of a Bahá’í community. As a believer of 15 cannot vote he sees no reason for including a statement regarding the
[Page 3]
age of 15 in the By-Laws. A baby
can be considered a Bahá’í; 15 is
merely the age of maturity for fasting, marriage, etc., and in the case
of America, a declaration at that
age is invited from the youth in order to protect them, at a future
date, from being forced to do active
military service.
In this connection he would like to point out that if the believers gather before sundown on a certain date it does not matter if the meeting continues after sunset; it may still be considered as being held on the day they gathered.
The Naw-Rúz Feast should be held on March 21 before sunset and has nothing to do with the 19 Day Feast. The 19 Day Feast is administrative in function whereas the Naw-Rúz is our New Year, a Feast of hospitality and rejoicing.
The Esslemont book is now printed in about 60 languages, and the Guardian does not want any revision made of it at present.
He sees no objection to Bahá’ís in various universities holding organized Bahá’í student groups, as long as they do this on each campus according to the rules, and no general statement is made regarding such procedure by your Assembly. The tendency of the Bahá’ís all over the world is to constantly try to lay down new rules and regulations, and pour the Faith into molds, whereas the Guardian insists on the greatest elasticity in details and only the fundamentals, laid down by him already, should be universal and rigidly adhered to.
The Guardian has no objection to the suggestion of the Temple architect to go to the additional expense at present of $32,136 in using cast stone for the outside walls of the Temple interior, as long as this will be included in the top figure estimated originally and accepted, or not exceed it excessively.
The Guardian has not felt he wished to make any voice recordings for the various Conventions as yet. But he thanks you for your offer to send the necessary machine for this purpose.
The Bahá’í marriage ceremony should be carried out because we are Bahá’ís, regardless of whether it is legal or not. All details regarding this matter are left to the discretion of your Assembly.
In closing let me assure you that our beloved Guardian has watched with interest and approval the achievements of your body during the last year. The Temple is now assured, the European work going ahead wonderfully. It is Latin America that requires the greatest care at this time in order to launch the two new NSA’s on their careers successfully.
His loving thoughts and prayers are with you, and he shares your cares and burdens in spirit.
The illnesses of dear Mr. Holley and Mr. Sprague have been most unfortunate, and he admires not only their own patience and devoted spirit but also the way in which their coworkers took on added burdens.
—R. RABBANI
P.S. The Convention record has
been received; also the photograph
of the Phoenix, all-Negro Assembly,
sent by the RTC of the Central
States: he was delighted to see this
picture and note the progress in the
Faith which it represents.
Note: The Guardian’s postscript to this letter, in his own handwriting, was published in the September issue of Bahá’í News under the title “A Worthy Five-fold Offering.”
Cables from the Guardian[edit]
Cable received July 12, 1950: “DEEPLY APPRECIATE SENTIMENTS RESPONSE PRAYING UNPRECEDENTED VICTORIES BRIEF YET MOMENTOUS PERIOD BETWEEN TWO GLORIOUS SUCCESSIVE CENTENARIES BAB’S MARTYRDOM BIRTH BAHA’U’LLAH’S PROPHETIC MISSION.”
Cable received July 15: “APPROVE TREATMENT WINDOWS
ALSO ELIMINATION PENDANTS
DEEPLY APPRECIATE RESPONSE NEWLY ARISEN PIONEERS PRAYING GREAT VICTORIES.”
Cable received July 24, 1950:
“ALL GIFTS BY NON BAHA’IS
FOR CHARITY ONLY.”
Cable received August 23, 1950:
“WARN BELIEVERS ABDULLAH
FAZEL UNDER NAME (OF) JOSEPH PERDU PROCEEDING
AMERICA FROM HONOLULU. ASSOCIATION FORBIDDEN.”
Passing of Miss Ella Robarts on
May 2, 1950: “PRAYING FERVENTLY PROGRESS SOUL ABHA KINGDOM DEVOTED OLD BELIEVER. ASSURE YOU LOVING
SYMPATHY.”
BE REBORN[edit]
Other Messages from the Guardian[edit]
Letter from the Guardian (July 17, 1950) to the Area National Teaching Committees:
“Members of the National Area Teaching Committees:
“Dear Bahá’í Friends:
“Your letter of February 27 was received, and our beloved Guardian has instructed me to answer you on his behalf.
“He is very sorry not to have replied before, but the dangerous illness of Mr. Maxwell and the work on the Holy Shrine have held up his correspondence.
“He hopes that your Committees will meet with greater success during the coming months. The completion of the first stage of the super-structure of the Holy Shrine, now offering a challenge and an inspiration to the world over; the completion of the Temple interior, soon to be accomplished, the imminent launching of the two Latin American National Bodies; the wonderful progress made in the ten goal countries—all these, combined with the very dark political aspect of world affairs, must stimulate the believers in America to unite and push forward as one soul the work of our glorious Faith.
“He feels that you should do your utmost to call the attention of the friends to these large things, and real triumphs, and away from their personal differences and petty pre-occupations. Now is certainly not the time for any man to think of himself, or busy himself with the weaknesses of his brother; but, rather each and every Bahá’í must concentrate on the tasks ahead and be reborn in the service of Bahá’u’lláh.
“With Bahá’í love,
[Page 4]
(In the Guardian’s own handwriting)
“Dear Co-workers:
“I was so pleased to receive your letter and am deeply touched by the sentiments you have expressed. I wish to assure you that I will pray for the success of your high endeavours from the depths of my heart, that the Beloved may guide your steps, and enable you to lend a great impetus to the onward march of our beloved Faith.
“Your true brother
Grown Up at Last[edit]
Excerpt from letter from Shoghi Effendi to Leroy Ioas, through his Secretary dated August 25, 1950.
“The Guardian has been receiving many heartening letters from the friends, assuring him of their loyalty and devotion; a loyalty which was never in doubt. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, as you will remember, often referred to the American believers as children, but they have certainly grown up at last, and are assuming their full share of Bahá’í responsibility, which lightens the Guardian’s heavy load and makes his work easier.”
The following are excerpts from a letter from the Guardian, dated June 15, 1950, to the National Spiritual Assembly of the British Isles:
Hussein[edit]
“Regarding his cable concerning Hussein: he has been very surprised to note that the terms ‘low-born Christian girl’ and ‘disgraceful alliance’ should arouse any question; it seems to him that the friends should realize it is not befitting for the Guardian’s own brother, the grandchild of the Master, an Afnán and Aghṣán mentioned in the Will and Testament of the Master, and of whom so much was expected because of his relation to the family of the Prophet, to marry an unknown girl, according to goodness knows what rite, who is not a believer at all. Surely every Bahá’í must realize that the terms low-born and Christian are definitions of a situation and in no way imply any condemnation of a person’s birth or the religion they belong to as such. We have no snobbery and no religious prejudice in our Faith. But the members of the Master’s family have contracted marriages which cannot be considered in any other light than disgraceful, in view of what ‘Abdu’l-Bahá wished for them.”
Psychiatry[edit]
“There is nothing in our teachings about Freud and his method. Psychiatric treatment in general is no doubt an important contribution to medicine, but we must believe it is still a growing rather than a perfected science. As Bahá’u’lláh has urged us to avail ourselves of the help of good physicians Bahá’ís are certainly not only free to turn to psychiatry for assistance but should, when available, do so. This does not mean psychiatrists are always wise or always right; it means we are free to avail ourselves of the best medicine has to offer us.”
Toward Complete Victory[edit]
Dearly Beloved Friends:
In this critical hour, the Beloved Guardian has given the American Bahá’ís one of his greatest blessings, that of participation in the erection of the superstructure of the Shrine of the Báb, at the world center of our Faith.
This unique opportunity, the Guardian points out, “will not recur”, “for another century” at least, perhaps “never again”. But, glorious as this gift is, it does not in any way relieve us of our responsibilities, but is, as the Guardian states, “superimposed on the manifold responsibilities shouldered by members of the American Bahá’í community.”
The National Assembly wishes to share with the friends, its understanding of the relationship of the three funds now before the American Bahá’ís. The Victory Fund, and the Temple Interior Construction Fund, are obligations assumed by us to assure victory of the second Seven Year Plan, and must be fully met. The Shrine of the Báb Fund, (for that is what we now call the contributions for the Shrine of the Báb), is a blessing and an opportunity of spiritual dedication. Its true spiritual blessing can be gained only after our obligations are fulfilled.
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Bahá’í News is published by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’í of the United States as the official news-letter of the Bahá’í Community. It is edited by Bahá’í News Editorial Committee: Mrs. Eleanor Hutchens, Mrs. Mabel Paine, Mrs. Doris Fincham. Editorial Office: Mrs. Eleanor Hutchens, 307 S. Prairie, Champaign, Illinois. Please report changes of address and other matters pertaining to distribution to the Bahá’í National Office, 536 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, Illinois. |
Thus, we must rally to greater heights of achievement as we forge ahead. We must meet our pledges to the Temple Fund; and we must face squarely the needs of the Victory Fund and increase our contributions to that fund so that the one blot marring our otherwise spotless record may be removed.
Elsewhere in this issue, you will find a record of the Temple Interior Construction Fund, which shows we still require $62,080 before we have achieved full victory in this field. Unpaid resolves, if fully met, will practically cover this amount.
The Victory Fund, however, has not fared so well. This fund calls for a budget of $238,845 for the current Bahá’í Year, or $19,904 per month. Thus, the budget for the first three months of the Bahá’í year, ending July 31, 1950, calls for contributions of $59,712. During this three month period, we have contributed $43,359.45, leaving us short for our Victory Fund Budget of $16,352. Thus you will see, Friends, that we must immediately re-examine our contributions to this most vital fund. Meeting it fully will wipe out the deficit of previous years and enable us to carry forward our other heavy responsibilities of the second Seven Year plan, such as Inter-American, and European teaching. If the Victory Fund is not met, then we will not have gained the complete victory now almost within our grasp.
May we all make the Victory Fund the subject of deep consideration, prayer, and action. In order to gain our goal for the remaining nine months of the Bahá’í year, we must contribute approximately $21,000 per month, or more than double the contributions made last year to the General Fund. If we are to meet, at Convention time next year, in the completed House of Worship, with a spotless record, as the Guardian is calling upon us to do, we must immediately, vigorously, take such action as is necessary to meet fully the requirements of the Victory Fund.
LEROY C. IOAS, Treasurer
[Page 5]
For the week prior to the anniversary of the Martyrdom of the Báb this display with the Persian Bayán, a picture of the shrine of the Báb, and literature was in the main San Francisco public library.
Local Centenary Reports[edit]
As the hour approached noon on July 9, 1950, Bahá’ís in local communities throughout the United States gathered reverently to observe the 100th Anniversary of the Martyrdom of the Báb. With their brothers in a hundred lands, they were touched by the realization of the significance of the great sacrifice made by the Báb for the love of God. They were poignantly aware of the desperate need in the world for the message of unity and purity heralded by the Báb. They arose resolved to be more worthy followers of so noble a figure.
Reports have come from a number of the local spiritual assemblies describing the activities marking those observances. Many more reports are yet to be received. Thirty-one radio stations carried either an announcement or a full program concerning the Báb’s Martyrdom. Many newspapers carried accounts. There were displays of Bahá’í books and pictures in the San Francisco public library and in windows in Duluth, Minn.; Beverly, Mass.; and Colorado Springs, Colo.
Most communities held public meetings commemorating the Báb’s Martyrdom with both non-Bahá’í and Bahá’í speakers. Among the non-Bahá’ís participating were a member of the Indian Embassy, university professors, attorneys, a Unitarian minister, news analysts, a war correspondent, World Federalists, and members of the Urban League.
Among the most interesting and successful meetings reported were the following:
Washington, D.C.
At noon the believers gathered at the Bahá’í Center where thirteen of the believers read the selections chosen for the Commemoration at the Temple. “The release of spiritual energy was felt by all present.”
A great effort was made to publicize the public meeting. Fifteen hundred programs with a picture of the Temple in deep green were printed and distributed to colleges, libraries, clubs, educational organizations, hotels, and leading figures in Washington as well as among friends. Fifty special invitations enclosing the pamphlet “The Martyr-Prophet of a World Faith” were sent to progressive organizations and leaders. Paid advertisements appeared in two newspapers with the largest circulation, The Evening Star and The Washington Post. A well placed article also appeared at the top of a page in The Washington Post and in the Diamond Chatterbox, a weekly magazine of current events, distributed in 1600 cabs and in hotels.
Three radio stations WQQW, WTOP, and WINX gave time for spot announcements, and still another station, WOL, generously donated the fifteen minutes for the broadcast on the Martyrdom of the Báb. Mr. William Sears read the script he wrote which was used in all the 15 minute broadcasts listed in the tabulation below.
In the evening, despite rain, 170 people assembled in Pierce Hall, an annex of the Unitarian church. Palms, flowers and flags decorated the platform. Mrs. Mary Gibson, chairman, proclaimed the message of the New Day. Organ music was
Another glass case in the San Francisco library showed views of the Temple and displayed literature demonstrating the scope of the Bahá’í World Faith.
[Page 6]
played by Miss Edith B. Athey. Mr.
A. R. Palit, of the Embassy of India,
was the guest speaker describing the
inter-relationship of religions and
quoting frequently from the Bahá’í
Writings. His great respect for the
Faith was climaxed when he said
“I am not a Bahá’í, but I would like
to become a Bahá’í”.
The baritone soloist of All Soul’s Unitarian Church, Mr. John Yard, sang “Worship”. The Bahá’í speaker, Mr. William Sears, recounted the Epic of the Martyr-Prophet, comparing his mission with that of Jesus. The entire program was electrically recorded.
Copies of “Faith for Freedom” and “The Martyr-Prophet of a World Faith” were distributed by ushers at the door.
Pasadena, California
Ten Bahá’í Communities cooperated in presenting a program in the Civic Auditorium at Pasadena. They were Altadena, Arcadia, El Monte Township, Glendale, Glendale Township, Pasadena, San Gabriel, San Marino, Sierra Madre, and South Pasadena. Elaborate programs which were widely mailed asked such provocative questions as “Who was this beautiful and transcendent Personality?” “Who prophesied His arrival?” “What was the Vision He revealed that caused Him to offer up His life for humanity?”
The programs also gave the addresses and telephone numbers of Bahá’ís in 19 California Communities where Bahá’í literature and information might be obtained.
Los Angeles, California
Unusual dramatic effects were used by the Los Angeles Bahá’ís to bring the grandeur of the Báb’s Martyrdom before the public. The stage was decorated with the same twenty dozen gladioli that had been used earlier in the day in two other observances, including the one in Pasadena. Music from Mahler, Sibelius, Harrison, and other modern composers formed the background for many of the readings. Special stage lighting and choral arrangements heightened the drama.
In the first portion of the program, unseen voices of outstanding personalities out of the past and present centuries called upon the world to discover the reality of impending Revelation. These were interspersed with the creative words revealed by our Founders.
After a brief intermission a new technique was used in presenting the story of the martyrdom. Readers came forward and spoke the exact words of the various characters as their parts in the narrative unfolded. At the climax, when the shots were fired a second time and the storm hovered over the city of Tabríz, there was a long silence; then in the distance an a cappella choir swelled in weeping at the fate of One so pure, so great, so loving.
When the drama was concluded, Mrs. Virginia Foster spoke on the hundred years of spiritual renewal and of the purpose and import of the Founders of the Bahá’í World Faith. Saying that in one hundred nations of the world voices were raised echoing the call of Bahá’u’lláh, she listened with the audience as voices were heard quoting from the words of Bahá’u’lláh, declaring that the promises of all the past prophets had been fulfilled, for “Lo, the Promised One has come to the Earth.” The music of the chorus and orchestra amplified the transcendent theme.
Berkeley, California
The believers met in John Hinkel Park to commemorate the moment of the martyrdom with readings and chants in Persian and Arabic. There were flowers on either side of a Persian tapestry in which was woven the Greatest Name.
The radio script was broadcast over Station KRE, which had contributed the time as a public service.
More than 160 attended the public meeting at the Berkeley City Women’s Club Auditorium. Guest speaker was Mr. John Chapel, news director of station KLX, Oakland, and commentator at the Telenews Theater. Mr. Chapel had seen the Temple in ‘Ishqábád. The Bahá’í speaker was Mrs. Bahia Farajullah Gulick. Mrs. Del Purves, concert pianist, and Mr. Lyle Daniels, professional violinist, donated their services, performing the Brahms Concerto in A Major for Violin and Piano. Dr. Robert L. Gulick, Jr., presided.
Members of the audience were given reading lists of recommended books available in the Berkeley Public Library and in the Bahá’í Library.
Boston, Massachusetts
Of the 120 attending the Boston public meeting, two-thirds were non-Bahá’í. Dr. Manucher Javid, chairman of the Boston Spiritual Assembly spoke on the life and martyrdom of the Báb. Guest was Mrs. Laura Huxtable Porter, lecturer on parallels in poetry and music, who spoke on the life and work of Christ. Mr. and Mrs. Henry Ellison sang two spirituals and Handel’s “But Who May Abide the Day of His Coming” and Beethoven’s “Come unto Him.” Mr. Matthew Bullock served as chairman.
Syracuse, New York,
With the broadcast on Friday afternoon of the William Sears script, “The Martyr-Prophet of a World Faith” over station WAER began the Syracuse observances.
A radio invitation, paid advertisements and free newspaper stories, and written announcements to three hundred persons paved the way for the public meeting Saturday evening held in the Corinthian Gardens where firs and poplars are arranged formally to make a setting reminiscent of Haifa.
Dr. Harry Draker of Syracuse was the guest speaker, describing Eastern customs and conditions. He was educated at the American University in Beirut, had met the Guardian, and paid tribute to the Bahá’í Faith. Bahá’í guest speaker was Miss Hamideh Nabil, of New York City, daughter of Ali Kuli Khan. Chairman was Mr. E. Lowell Johnson.
The friends gathered once more on the 9th to recount the stirring events leading to the martyrdom of the Báb. Miss Nabil chanted the Tablet of Visitation.
Charleston, West Virginia,
Typical of one of the successful meetings sponsored by a small community is the one reported by Charleston. It attracted 45, probably the most ever drawn by a Bahá’í activity in Charleston.
In preparation, a parlor of the leading hotel was rented, 175 invitations were mailed, letters were written asking that an invitation be posted at the YWCA, the Morris Harvey College (white), the West Virginia State College (Negro), and a Young Adult Forum Group. Spot announcements were arranged for on stations WKNA and WCHS. Two news items appeared in the paper.
Exhibits in the room included a large picture of the Temple, a photograph of the last Bahá’í convention, a 40" map of the United States with flags marking each assembly location, the Map of the Bahá’í World
[Page 7]
Religion photostated to four times
its original size, a framed photostat
of the Guardian’s description of “A
World Religion,” two twenty-inch
panels giving the Principles and
‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Words about the
Bahá’í Revelation, a large announcement of follow-up meetings, and a
display of free literature and books.
Dr. T. Conley Adams, the Head of the Department of Religion and Dean of Men at the Morris Harvey College, was the guest speaker on “Unity in Religions.” He mentioned his desire to include the Bahá’í Faith in his course on Comparative Religions. Professor J. Frederick Matheus, of the Department of Romance Languages, West Virginia State College, was the Bahá’í speaker, on “The Gateway to Unity Opens.” Edward G. Lippitt read the script “The Martyr-Prophet.” Chairman for the afternoon was Louise Jackson.
In Memoriam[edit]
Death preferreth unto every confident believer the cup that is life indeed. It bestoweth joy and is the bearer of gladness. It conferreth the gift of everlasting life.
- Mrs. Dorothy Eisenberg, Miami, Fla. July 26, 1950
- Mr. Frank Hoffman, Cincinnati, Ohio May 24, 1950
- Mrs. Emma Beatty, Spokane, Wash., July 8, 1950
- Mrs. Louise C. Rich, Chicago, Ill. August 27, 1950
- Miss Mary J. Prescott, Malden, Mass. August 6, 1950
The Centenary by Radio[edit]
| COMMUNITY | TIME | DATE | STATION |
| Berkeley, California | 15 minutes | July 9 | KRE |
| Birmingham, Alabama | 4:00 P.M. | July 9 | WEDR |
| Boise, Idaho | 8:45 A.M. | July 9 | KIDO |
| Champaign, Illinois | 10:15 A.M. 15 minutes | July 9 | WDWS |
| Charleston, West Virginia | Announcements | WKNA & WCHS | |
| Chicago, Illinois | 3:15 A.M. 15 minutes | July 8 | WMAQ |
| Columbia, South Carolina | 7:45 P.M. 15 minutes | August 13 | |
| Fargo, North Dakota | 11:00 A.M. 5 minutes | July 9 | KFGO |
| Announcements | KFGO | ||
| Great Falls, Montana | 9:45 P.M. 15 minutes | July 9 | |
| Knoxville, Tennessee | 12:30 P.M. 15 minutes | July 9 | WKGN |
| Lansing, Michigan | 12:00 Noon | July 9 | WILS |
| Announcements | WILS | ||
| Miami, Florida | Announcement | July 8 | WIOD |
| Monrovia, California | 3 minutes | KWKW | |
| Announcement | |||
| New Haven, Connecticut | 15 minutes | WAVZ | |
| Providence, Rhode Island | Announcement | July 8 | WHIM |
| 15 minutes | July 9 | WHIM | |
| Ridgewood, New Jersey | 15 minutes | ||
| St. Paul, Minnesota | 11:00 A.M. 15 minutes | July 9 | WPBC |
| San Antonio, Texas | 10:15 A.M. 15 minutes | July 9 | KTSA |
| San Diego, California | 15 minutes | ||
| Announcements | 4 stations | ||
| San Francisco, California | 11:45 A.M. 15 minutes | July 9 | KFRC |
| San Mateo, California | 11:45 15 minutes | July 9 | KSMO |
| South Bend, Indiana | 9:45 P.M. 15 minutes | July 9 | WJVA |
| Syracuse, New York | 4:30 PM 15 minutes | July 7 | WAER |
| Urbana, Illinois | 10:15 A.M. 15 minutes | July 9 | WDWS |
| Washington, D.C. | 10:15 A.M. 15 minutes | July 9 | WOL |
| Announcements | WQQW, WTOP, WINX | ||
| Westchester, Pennsylvania | 11:00 A.M. | July 9 | WPWA |
| Worcester, Massachusetts | 9:45 A.M. | ||
| 15 minutes | July 16 | WTAG | |
Latin America[edit]
ASSURE PIONEERS PROFOUND ADMIRATION ARDENT LOVING PRAYERS ACCOMPANYING THEM MERITORIOUS MISSION.
This benediction came in response to the ardent message sent to Shoghi Effendi from the August 26-27 Conference: OUTGOING PIONEERS ATTENDING CONFERENCE SEND DEVOTED LOVE RENEWED DEDICATION ACHIEVEMENT GOALS. Six left the country directly from the Conference: Jean Silver to Cuba, Louise Groger to Chile, Julie Regal to Puerto Rico, (one month), Amoz and Mary Gibson to Mexico City University, and Eve Nicklin to Peru after a summer of visiting and lecturing in her homeland. Three more will leave within the month; Flora Hottes to Puebla and Coatepec, Mexico, and perhaps to El Salvador, Charles Ioas to Colombia (two months), and Dr. Malcolm King to Jamaica. In October, Mrs. Frances Stewart will set out on her public mission around the Islands, northern South America, and Central America. Attending the Conference also were Mrs. Loulie Mathews, Miss Ophelia Crum, Miss Nancy Ray, and Miss Gwenne Sholtis, all of whom have tentative plans for later in the year.
BELOW THE RIO GRANDE
Setting out identically as to time, Sra. Blanca de Campos left Panama to take up her post in Ecuador. After holding a highly successful three-week Institute in the Capital City, the Gulick-Eichenauer team left Mexico to circle the Central area, visiting other Institutes. Johnny reported ten in the first class in San Salvador, and modestly he adds, “Our study was quite fruitful and Natalia’s explanations are loving and inspiring.”
Larry Kramer arrived to assist Louise Caswell in opening the Costa Rican Institute. Larry writes that fourteen attended in San Juan, two being non-Bahá’ís who “just could not be kept away,” and that “if the Institute here is a real success—and there seems every prospect of its being so—the result will be a truly re-born Bahá’í Community in San Juan.” Louise herself has just reported two enthusiastic new believers. Old and new were delighted with the address by Robert Gulick on the similarities between Latin America and the land of the origin of our Faith.
Mrs. Katherine McLaughlin, just returned from Jamaica, reports ten
| Temple Interior Construction Resolve Payment Account as of August 31, 1950 | ||||||||||||||||
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studying Institute twice a week in Kingston, and comments, “Most of the Bahá’ís are strong and devoted.” Visits were made to the two goal cities of Spanishtown and Port Antonio, and teaching teams organized to carry on, pending the early arrival of Dr. King.
Miss Evelyn Larson reports having organized Thursday evening meetings in Puebla during her summer stay there, but expresses the hope that Puebla will not have to be left so long again without help, until it is firmly established and large in numbers.
Cuba sends happy reports through Ruth Moffett, pioneer to Havana; Ruth writes, “Three lovely souls have registered and others are near.” Six addresses were given at the University of Havana, eighty-one Rotarians heard the Message, and a series of talks is at present being given in the Chamber of Commerce.
Quietly, in private homes, study on the Covenant and the Institutions are being held in Guatemala by Dorothy Campbell, not only in G. City, but in Chichicastenango. Dorothy states, as did Dr. Sarah Pereira and Lydia Martin, that there is great capacity in this group of open-hearted, spiritually hungry souls, and that some of our best scholars and translators will yet come out of Guatemala.
IN SOUTH AMERICA
Following the trail of light left by Shiela Rice-Wray en route to Paraguay, Lima reports fine meetings both in their capital city and in Callau, their goal city, where a student of long standing asked to become a registered believer because “she could not resist the joy of Mrs. Rice-Wray.” Shiela spoke of the fine work of CEBSA, the South American Teaching Committee, and particularly of the steadfast labors of Esteban Canales who will soon join her in Asuncion. In Buenos Aires where Mr. and Mrs. Miessler have turned the city into a veritable bee-hive, Mrs. Rice-Wray’s visit was blessed with five new students. Carrying with her El Plan Divino, the Institute material on the Covenant, history, laws, and institutions of the Faith,
A conference of outgoing pioneers to Latin America held in Wilmette August 26th and 27th, with members of the Inter-America Committee.
she wrote in particular of one touching incident: “Early one morning
there was a knock on my hotel room
door in Buenos Aires. When I opened
the door there stood a Spaniard, who
works on that floor—the ninth. In
his hands he had ‘El Plan Divino’.
‘I must have this book, Senora,—’
he said—‘I will pay you any price,
anything you ask. I was reading it
last night. I took it because I knew
that everything that I have been
wanting and seeking all my life, was
within this book. I want to teach it
to my children and to their children. I must have this book, Senora’. I gave him the address of the
center, and he arrived there that
very afternoon demanding with all
his heart and soul El Plan Divino.
He had to leave with New Era, unsatisfied.... There is a power in
this book!” In Asuncion, where a
special election is to be held in November, to insure representation of
Paraguay in the first Convention,
some of the inactive friends have already rallied to help Shiela rebuild
the fires of faith.
The second country permitted to hold a special election is Uruguay. Mr. and Mrs. Rangvald Taetz of Sao Paulo have arisen to serve this country in Montevideo, and already the
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A National Temple Campaign
The completion of the Temple interior next spring is one of the great achievements of the American Bahá’ís. It will be a signal for profound rejoicing. It provides the occasion for a teaching campaign so widespread and so powerful that it can mark the beginning of a new period in the history of the Cause in America. To prepare for this campaign the National Spiritual Assembly has taken three important steps. 1. Preparation of important questions about the Temple for submission to the Guardian that from his answers we may have clear understanding of the future operation of the House of Worship; 2. Convening representatives of eleven national committees for a two-day conference in the National Office in order to submit plans for a national Temple campaign; and 3. The appointment of a National Temple Campaign Committee to study the Conference proposals, prepare final plans on the basis of the available appropriation and coordinate the work. A Temple Campaign budget of $10,000 has been approved. One of the features of the Campaign is that a handbook will be prepared to set forth for all believers the nature and use of the various campaign materials, the operation of the various national, local and individual projects, and the cost of the materials. This is a preliminary announcement. Month by month in Bahá’í News the definite plans will unfold. —NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY
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numbers have reached the required number. In rejoicing, however, it must be kept in mind that the recommendation to the Guardian for National Assembly elections must depend in part upon arriving at a minimum of fifteen active believers in each of the capital cities of the two territories, and that while some have been, and will continue to be safe and secure without question, a single country could become a deciding factor, and the major goal be lost.
Because of the greater distances for delivery of materials, the South American friends will hold some of their Study Institutes in the fall rather than the summer. They wish to share with the friends of North America their further schedule, and ask for your prayers for victory.
Colombia—all cities, eight days in each, through October. Conducted by Charles Ioas and Gayle Woolson.
Venezuela—Caracas, October 22-29. Conducted by Dorothy Campbell and Katherine Meyer.
Bolivia—La Paz, Sept. 24-30. Conducted by Eve Nicklin and Col. and Sra. Cuellar.
Ecuador—Quito, October 8-12. Conducted by Eduardo Gonzales, Blanca de Campos, Rosana Gallegos, Luis Martinez, Bolivar Plaza.
Peru—Lima, Sept. 9-16. Conducted by Eve Nicklin and Alberto Lovaton.
Robert Gulick and John Eichenauer in Guadalajara, Mexico.
Chile—Punta Arenas, Sept. 17-23.
Conducted by Louise Groger and
Alexandro Reid.
Argentina, Brazil, and upper Chile have consummated their Study Institutes, and Paraguay and Uraguay have been requested to await the entry of the later students, in order that old and new may have the benefit of this basic study. Mr. and Mrs. Miessler in Buenos Aires, Mrs. Margot Worley and Mr. Aureo Cooper in Rio, and Sra. Fabienne Gillón and Sr. Antonio Fillón in Valparaiso, have conducted these three highly successful Institutes.
In this great crusade of Latin Pioneering all can help with their prayers. The Inter-America Committee is grateful for the many expressions of faith and support of the friends, and reiterates its plea for self-sustaining pioneers who speak Spanish. Our grateful thanks are extended to Dr. Robert Fuller and Mrs. Gladys Lemmon, who have contributed toward deputizing pioneers this fall. We feel that they have with this generous act enrolled with our pioneers.
Memorial Contributions for August, 1950[edit]
A. Adolphson, Edwin Isak.
B. Babo, Helen; Beecher, Betty; Buikema, Gertrude; Burch, Ann; Burnet, Mary L. C. Parents of.
C. Cargill, Ann; Conrow, Amelie; Cox, Florence.
D. Dible, Olive; Duckett, Ernest; Duckett, Samuel.
E. Everly, Elwood.
G. Gillespie, Dr.; Glassgold, Rose; Grabler, Edith; Grabler, Edith; Grabler, Lawrence; Griewank, W. John.
H. Hall, Charles Berrien; Hart, Robert Clive, I.; Hatch, W. W.; Helderle, Chris; Helderle, Phoebe; Hendershot, Arthur; Herson, Anna; Householder, George.
I. Ioas, Charles.
K. Kelley, Thomas; Kelly, James; Khan, Madame Florence.
L. Lear, Lucienne F.; Lemp, Bernard Sr.; Lonaker, H. L.
M. Mamber, Sarah R.; Marcaurelle, Wilfred L.; Markey, Daniel P.; Markey, Gus L.; Marquardt, Joseph S.; Martenstein, Caroline; Marxer, Alice; Morgan, Elmer S.
N. Nabby, Thomas.
O. O’Connor, Hugh Q.; O’Connor, Mary A.
P. Page, Arthur J.; Pearson, Anna M.; Perkins, Ralph A.; Philp, Fred; Philp, Morley; Preston, Ross.
R. Randall, Bert; Randall, Lillian; Reason, Helen; Reed, Mrs. P. L.; Remey, William Butler, III; Ruppers, Amanda B.
S. Schlilaty, Robert; Segler, Bertha; Shaw, Mary; Sothman, Theodore; Speck, Mamie; St. Jacque, Henry P.; Stenson, Ed.; Stevens, Irma B.
T. Thrum, David Fraser; Thrum, Ella; Thrum, Frederick William; Thrum, George Ernest Augustine.
W. Watson, Evelyn; Watson, Hallie; Webster, Warren M.; West, Robert M.; Willard, Amelia B.; Willard, D. Seymour; Willard, Mary Livingston; Wong, Charles A.
Y. Yorks, The; Young, Harlan R.
The Third European Teaching Conference
Copenhagen, Denmark
July 24th through 27th, 1950[edit]
“Attention! Attention!—Delegates to the Third Bahá’í European Conference! ...”
As that call boomed from the loudspeaker across the Copenhagen Central Station, just as we sighted the dear friends who had come to welcome us, our hearts jumped a notch! What is more, our feet jumped two, as we sped to catch the train for Elsinore where again “BAHA’IS WELCOME!”, placarded in the Station, smiled directly at us.
Monday afternoon, July 24, the International People’s College of Elsinore, set in rambling green at the upper jut of the Danish isle, became the scene of lively Bahá’í arrivals from many lands. To describe aptly the reunion of hearts quickened by the love of Bahá’u’lláh, would be to understand the love of God.... The joy and surprise; the hugs, and cheers and tears: the outstretched hands of our hosts, the Copenhagen Community! Not even the rain, which poured in torrents could deluge the fervor of it all!
With each succeeding year, preparations for the Conference grow in scope and intensity. The prodigious planning months ahead by the Copenhagen friends, was supplemented by the arrival in Copenhagen early in July, of dauntless Honor Kempton and Arna Perron who moved into an apartment and turned the living room into a mimeographing shop.
Punctually at 9:45 Tuesday morning, the friends were in their places at the “language-labelled” tables in the Conference Hall — a cheerful, broad-windowed room. Brilliant bowls of flowers adorned the dignified podium with its speaker’s table covered in green, this year’s color note in memory of the Báb, and carried out in the handsome green and gold Conference badge as well as in the official program and other literature....
It was an eager group, astir with anticipation, which bowed its head in gratitude as two of the Danish friends — Johanne Hoeg, and Maren Hogh-Olsen — read the opening prayers. A warm welcome by Emma Mortensen, Chairman of the Copenhagen Spiritual Assembly, followed. And then all ears turned to the opening address of Edna True, our dearly loved Chairman of the European Teaching Committee and presiding Chairman of the Conference.
Commenting first upon the heartening progress of the Faith in Europe, numerically and administratively, since the Brussels Conference, Miss True remarked that “the members of these young and inexperienced Communities have been, and still are, passing through what is one of the most difficult stages in the Bahá’í life — that of learning to apply in their relationships with each other and most of all, in their personal lives, the glorious teachings and principles which they had so sincerely accepted with their hearts. ... Functioning in a Bahá’í Community is a completely new and unique experience.”
A mature understanding — here Miss True touched the mainspring of her message—the need for maturity in living and promoting a Revelation destined to encompass the world and to rear a spiritual civilization. She assured the European Believers that the Guardian’s desire that the Faith be developed with special rapidity in Europe, is in itself evidence of his confidence in their capacity to exercise maturity of thought and action.
Under the hallmarks of maturity, Miss True mentioned the ability to lift our gaze beyond local horizons to the greater universal aims of the Faith; to subordinate personal considerations to unity in collective action; to realize that the Bahá’í Faith has a higher destiny to fulfill than any previous Revelation; namely, not only the spiritualizing of the individual but the erection of a New World Order vouchsafing all mankind permanent peace. As further evidence of maturity she cited the ability “to recognize our personal and collective responsibilities in this great divine plan.”
Another moment and Dr. Katherine True, European Teaching Committee member, whose stimulating presence was also granted us this year, arose to read the Guardian’s eagerly awaited Greeting—*his special Message to the Conference and to the new European Communities there represented.
A promptly drafted return cable* expressed deepest gratitude for the unfailing guidance of our beloved Guardian and conveyed loving assurance of our determination to carry on unflinchingly.
Roll call broke the earnestness of the moment. Quickly the microphone was shifted from one national group to another, so that each member might introduce himself. The final count grew to 177, representing 22 nationalities. Letters and telegraphic greetings came from all directions—Alaska, Indonesia, Brazil—to further enliven and internationalize our gathering.
Tuesday afternoon brought us to consultation of the root-theme of all Bahá’í thinking — the Covenant of God. Prefacing our discussion, Elsa Steinmetz, in her talk on “God’s Eternal Legacy,” carried us step by step through the dramatic unfoldment of both the Ancient and Lesser Covenant in this Day. Pointing out that the overwhelming power of our Cause lies in the “written word,” as exemplified by the Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh and the Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Miss Steinmetz urged the necessity of becoming “COVENANT-CONSCIOUS, which means living the Covenant—‘living the life’—living the love of God!”
The theme of the Covenant was presented by Miss Steinmetz with such purity and such power as to create an atmosphere of exaltation, and to lift the Conference to a high spiritual level. Thus, through this keynote address, the power of the Covenant, itself, became the keynote of the entire Conference.
Lively participation spurred on the afternoon’s consultation, which revolved largely around three questions:—“What does firmness in the Covenant mean? How can we be administratively efficient without losing the spirit? What is the main
____
* This cable is published separately in
this issue.
[Page 11]
cause of criticism?” The epic answer of the session was called forth
by the latter question:—“We criticize because we look for perfection.
Leave perfection for another day
and strive for unity today!”
With great earnestness, Dr. Ugo Giachery introduced the evening’s consultation on “Literature Needs.” He reminded us not only of the Guardian’s oft-recurring plea that “increased translation, publication and dissemination of Bahá’í Literature ... be strenuously carried out,” but that “among all the religious people of the world, the Bahá’ís are the only ones who possess the authentic Words of the Prophet, not compilations written down centuries after the death of the Revealer.”
Wednesday morning’s theme, “Faith in Action,” was opened by David Hofman with the impressive thought that “the Administrative Order is the Temple of Mankind—the house in which the Bahá’ís live today — the future Kingdom of God on earth.” Elaborating, he pointed out that “in the Kingdom of God — the Bahá’í world — the individual, singly, has no authority whatsoever. Rather, authority has been conferred by Bahá’u’lláh upon the institutions of the Cause. While a member of the Spiritual Assembly, therefore, has no individual authority, the institution of which he is a part, has a power given of God ....”
In the pursuing discussion, the previous day’s question—“how to be administratively efficient without losing the spirit”—was again in the arena, this time as applied to the Spiritual Assembly. “The first condition,” Mr. Hofman remarked, “is absolute love and harmony among ourselves.” At any moment of tensity, time must be taken to re-establish love and harmony.... Unity is more important than anything.”
The recommendations and questions which came in quick succession from the rapidly maturing European friends, were thought-provoking even to the most experienced believers.
The arrival of Dr. Eugen Schmidt of Stuttgart, Germany, Chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly of Germany and Austria, brought hearty applause. His great joy at being with the Bahá’ís of other lands again, after eight years of isolation, was stirring. Exciting was the news which he shared with us from the Guardian’s letter of June 28 to the German National Spiritual Assembly. Lauding “the progress achieved by the German Bahá’í Community in recent months,” the Guardian revealed the mission he has in mind for the German friends beyond the borders of their country.
The subject of TEACHING—that “most meritorious of all deeds,” as Bahá’u’lláh called it, was approached with marked understanding of human reactions, in a talk by Marion Little on Wednesday afternoon, preffacing general consultation on teaching methods and problems. “There is no special technic in teaching the Faith,” she remarked, “for it is a part of our lives.... Therefore, to present the teachings requires a constant variation of approach.... People are the same all over the world; they like a smile, they like sympathy, even if they have never seen you before.... The great adventure is first walking with them wherever they are, speaking to them in ways that they understand, in the language of the heart; because we have a great gift to offer.” In a word, adaptability on our part, brings receptivity on the listener’s part.
At five o’clock chartered motor coaches arrived to take us to historic Kronborg Castle, with its renaissance grandeur and its Shakespearian heritage as setting for the Hamlet legend. We returned to Elsinore just in time to get ready for the Unity Banquet. In our absence the Conference Hall had been transformed into a gala dining salon, its long festive tables decorated with gay flowers and national flags, while lighted candles vied with the warm glow of Bahá’í fellowship.
Following a superb dinner, attention was shifted to the speaker’s table, as Marion Little, gracious Chairman of the evening, presented two distinguished pioneers, who have served the Faith since the turn of the century—Mrs. Corinne True, endeared to us as “Mother True,” and Charles Mason Remey. Both have “walked with, and talked with” ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. In their gentle presence one feels that nobility which ‘Abdu’l-Bahá referred to when he said: “It is possible so to adjust oneself to the practice of nobility, that its atmosphere surrounds and colors every act.”
In his greeting, Mr. Remey recalled his early days in the Cause in Paris, before any Bahá’í literature was available.... Referring to the Faith as the coming of the Kingdom of God on earth, he pointed out that in its growing Administrative Order, we see the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy that God’s Messenger for this Day shall have the “government upon His shoulder; and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace.”
Mrs. True took us back to her unforgettable six-day visit in the home of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in ‘Akká, the year before His release from prison. In her talk she referred to the New Jerusalem which is emerging on Mt. Carmel, remarking that while “Moses brought the laws to build up nations, Bahá’u’lláh brought the plan to unite all nations.”
Mrs. Little then introduced Mildred Mottahedeh, Bahá’í representative to the United Nations, who told of the work done by the five Bahá’í delegates attending the United Nations Conference of Non Governmental Organizations in Geneva on June 25, with 103 organizations represented.
Up and up the exhilaration of the evening climbed, as the delegates from all countries transmitted greetings from the Communities at home and poured out the love and gratitude which throbbed in their own hearts. Especially touching were the words of those from the “hampered” lands.
The alluring description of “A Day in a Bahá’í Summer School”, presented by David Ned Blackmer in opening Thursday morning’s program, must have awakened a deep desire in the heart of every European believer, to hasten the founding of the first permanent Bahá’í Summer School in his country.
Tracing the development of the Bahá’í Summer Schools through the last half century and explaining their intrinsic purpose as educational and fellowship centers, Mr. Blackmer concluded with the Guardian’s plea that every Bahá’í enjoy their benefits:—“Let him consider such an occasion as a welcome and precious opportunity so to enrich, through lectures, study, and discussion, his knowledge of the fundamentals of his Faith as to be able to transmit, with
[Page 12]
greater confidence and effectiveness, the message that has been entrusted to his care.”
The Summer School activities which Mr. Blackmer painted for us in words, Mrs. Beatrice Ashton later portrayed in beautiful color films, made still more vivid by her interesting comments.
At two o’clock our entire family was on its way in a special fleet of motor-coaches to the Garden Tea given by Mme. Deleuran in Hellerup (Copenhagen).
Standing at the gate to welcome us as we reached the Deleuran villa, were Mme. Deleuran and Jean and Tove. “Come in! Come in!” ... and we did come into the happiest Garden Party, I daresay, that has ever graced Hellerup; for here we broke bread together in the sunlight of divine friendship. It was a pretty scene, and an international one. Colorful little groups studded the garden everywhere, laughing and chatting, while cameras clicked.
It was six o’clock when we left our charming hostess and streamed down to the pier, where a chucking steamer waited to whisk us to Copenhagen for the evening’s public meeting at the National Museum. Sitting in the dignified Museum Hall were some 300 guests gathered for our program.
Palle Bischoff of Copenhagen, Chairman of the evening, opened the program “A Bahá’í World Faith,” by explaining with conviction and clarity, the Bahá’í concept of Progressive Revelation. He then introduced Hilda Summers of Lisbon, who spoke on the “Spiritual Dynamic” of the Faith. She defined it as “the force which results from the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, giving motion to the plan of God for any given age”; and then proved with keen logic, that man’s rise and fall through the ages, has been exactly commensurate to his adherence to this creative force, revivified today by Bahá’u’lláh.
Jean Deleuran of Copenhagen followed with the “Social Principles” of the Faith, showing further, and in most convincing manner, that it is the divine authority animating these principles, which is drawing a frustrated world to their acceptance. God has decreed a “divine maturity” for man today, and through the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh, he is being raised, whether he knows it or not, to the spiritual level which will make him a worthy world citizen.
“Hurry hurry, the busses are leaving!” ... It was midnight when we reached Elsinore, tired but happy, and filled with anticipation of the first Bahá’í European Summer School scheduled to open in the morning.
Precious scenes without end keep flashing into mind:—the evening coffee hour together after the full day—just to relax and relate, to sing and have fun! Then the brisk hikes across the campus to sniff the salty sea and feel renewed; the in-between visits to the College Library to mull over the attractive pictorial exhibits of Bahá’í activities, submitted by the goal countries. How puffed up we felt to note our growth on the large world map which Artist Leo Stepe so cleverly laced with a network of red threads showing all Bahá’í centers!
For all of the enriching experiences of the Third European Teaching Conference, we express deepest gratitude to our beloved Guardian; to the European Teaching Committee; to the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States; to the entire American Community, and to our hosts, the Copenhagen Friends, whose Conference Committee did a magnificent piece of planning—whose hospitality overlooked no detail—whose members exemplified a spirit of unity and cooperation which every Bahá’í Community might well emulate.
- Except for remarks about herself.
The First Bahá’í European Summer School
Copenhagen, Denmark
July 28 through 30, 1950[edit]
“We have been experiencing,” Miss Edna True, Chairman of the European Teaching Committee, said, “during the past three days of the Conference, the joys of true spiritual fellowship, and now we are to have the thrilling experience of studying together and deepening our knowledge of the fundamental spiritual and administrative principles of our Faith.”
We were given this welcome and precious opportunity through the expansion of the Conference into the First European Teaching Summer School, which was designed, insofar as possible, “to set the pattern for future independent national summer schools in the ten European goal countries.”
Although we met in the same lecture room, for the most part saw the same happy faces, and continued in the same invigorating atmosphere of harmony and understanding—yet the very tone and character of the summer school were different in nature and purpose from the Conference.
The three carefully planned days were made up of lectures, discussion and workshops. The two morning sessions were devoted to an intensive study of “The Covenant” and “Bahá’í Administration.” Miss Sally Sanor clearly and masterfully explained the Eternal Covenant of God “running through the story of creation like a lifeline ...” from age to age up through the present hour—and our relationship as Bahá’ís to the Covenant.
The introduction to “Bahá’í Administration” and discussion were expertly handled by Dr. Katherine True and Miss Anita Ioas, showing the fundamental reasons why the Bahá’í Faith would never suffer from spiritual imperialism, as with other religions in past times, but would be protected through the perfect instrumentality of the Universal House of Justice and the Guardianship. The responsibility of the individual Bahá’í toward Bahá’í administration was forcefully brought out during the discussion—with obedience and wholehearted cooperation as its basic law. Much time was given to the discussion of practical, every-day problems in the functioning of community life, emphasizing that the administrative principles and laws must never be divorced from the underlying spiritual truths. Such questions as the following were used as springboards for discussion: “What is the purpose of God’s Covenant?” “The power?” “What is the source and authority of our assembly?” “About what subjects can an assembly consult?” “How much authority
[Page 13]
does a committee have?”
etc. The answers given spontaneously showed understanding and maturity, as well as the great advantage to be gained from studying together.
The afternoons were made up of two sessions: a highly instructive three-months’ course on “Comparative Religion” given by Mrs. Florence Holsinger in three sessions!; and “Teaching, the Greatest Gift of God” presented by Mrs. Mildred Clark and Mrs. Else Horneman with the assistance of Miss Jindra Mynarova, speaking on “Youth,” and Mrs. Jean Deleuran, on the “Teaching of Children.” The compilation of quotations on teaching, used as an inspiration for the keynote lecture, is a treasure.
The Children’s hour was a Special treat. Seven from the Children’s Class in Copenhagen and two from the Summer School presented their program of prayers and songs in both English and Danish. We saw the projection slides of the Danish ABC Book with the outline of the Temple, which the children had made with their own hands. We heard their teacher, Mrs. Jean Deleuran, tell of their experiences in forming a study class and their adventures in Bahá’í living. “If you want the thrill of a lifetime, start a Bahá’í class for children,” Mrs. Deleuran advised. “Such amusing things happen ... One little girl after hearing that all the Prophets of God had brought the same spiritual truths said, “are you sure they didn’t peek into each others’ books?” She said that the spark of enthusiasm is sooner or later caught by the non-Bahá’í parents, who begin to attend firesides—one mother had already made her declaration.
The evenings were devoted to workshops—the first being the presentation of “A Bahá’í Nineteen Day Feast” by the Geneva Community and the second “A Meeting of the Copenhagen Assembly,” both model Bahá’í gatherings. Here we absorbed without effort—learned by example, which is, after all, the best teacher.
Each person present received copies of every lecture (and for the most part in his own language) to take home with him—besides the Third European Teaching Conference Reference Book, an excellent text-book for teachers. This material bears silent testimony to the hours of research, inspiration, labor and selfless devotion that have gone into its preparation—translations, lectures, stenciling, mimeographing in English, German, French, Norwegian, Swedish and Spanish (a Herculean task!)
Space does not permit the recording of more than a few valuable contributions during this time; “What the Cause now requires is not highly cultured and intellectual people but a number of sincere, devoted persons who regardless of their own limitations, forsake their all to spread the Faith.” “Spiritual Feasts, according to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, are for the partaking of spiritual food and the enjoyment of God.” “We must look upon the Assembly as an organic whole. We get the threads of truth from every member. It is necessary for us to weave those threads into a perfect pattern.” “The source and authority of an Assembly is Bahá’u’lláh. If we disobey our assemblies, we disobey Bahá’u’lláh.” “The bonds of love and unity do not depend upon language—they are of the spirit and need no spoken language.” “Our deepest thanks to the ETC, and to the American believers ... our greatest love.”
Who can say how far the influence of the love and unity radiating from this Conference-Summer School has penetrated? One instance is already known. A native of Lapland, driven by an irresistible urge she could not explain, journeyed by air from Sweden to revisit, after fifteen years, the International School at Elsinore. Upon arriving next to the last day, her first question was; “What kind of a conference is being held?” The radiance of her smile removed all doubt—she had sought and she had found. She would carry this great Message of Bahá’u’lláh to her people in Lapland!
As we gathered together for the last time that Sunday evening, there was unmistakably a “greater awareness of our inescapable responsibilities.” In gratitude to the American believers, there was a prayer for the American nation, requested by the European believers. There are slides showing the work being done on the Most Holy Shrine of the Báb, which brought us even closer in spirit to that Ark of Salvation for humanity today. There was His prayer, “Is there any remover of difficulties save God? ...” said in fifteen different languages. There was the memory in our hearts that this entire year was a Holy Year of the supreme sacrifice of The Blessed Báb. May God help us “to transmit, with greater confidence and effectiveness, the message that has been entrusted” to our care.
Message From European Conference to Guardian[edit]
Shoghi Effendi Rabbani
P.O. Box 155
H a i f a
Palestine.
177 registered believers representing 22 countries gathered in unity at the Third European Bahá’í Teaching Conference, Copenhagen, Denmark. All deeply moved by our Guardian’s dynamic message, mindful of our responsibilities, rededicating ourselves to accomplish under his guidance the task ahead, deepen our knowledge of the Faith, rapidly diffuse message Bahá’u’lláh, striving to live the true Bahá’í life, expressing our gratitude for his guidance and assistance in the past year, our inmost desire to lighten his heavy burden, and expressing our loyalty and devotion.
Telegram sent Tuesday the 25th of July, from Elsinore.
Braille Around the World[edit]
An inquiry from the Chief Librarian of the Canadian National Institute Library for the Blind in Toronto made possible the placing of a Braille copy of “The Reality of Man” in this important library. We rejoice that this was brought about through the work of two blind Bahá’ís in Toronto, who had been asking the library for Bahá’í books.
In this country the cooperation of the friends in purchasing books for the blind has served a twofold purpose: bringing the Message to many more blind people and enabling the Committee to finance a reprinting in Braille of “The Reality of Man” in this austerity period, when we must function without a budget.
A list of literature available in Braille may be obtained from Bahá’í Service for the Blind.
[Page 14]
The float representing “This Earth One Country” was entered in the annual parade at Anchorage, Alaska, by the Bahá’í Children’s Workshop. The 19 children and 2 adults wore costumes of 14 different countries. Another picture showed onlookers crowding the rooftops.
Annual Reports from Local Spiritual Assemblies[edit]
LANSING, MICH.
Seven monthly public meetings were held with various outside speakers, including Emeric Sala from Canada. Several fireside meetings were conducted using visiting speakers. Publicity for these affairs and the Faith in general included 56 paid newspaper ads, 22 free articles, 7 city-in-brief articles, and 2 letters to the editor. On the occasion of United Nations Week, the Prayer for All Nations was inserted as a paid ad, and this was the only ad placed by any religious body during that special commemoration.
Paul Pettit, student at Michigan State College, gave a talk on the Faith to a congregation of 110 for the Spiritualist Episcopal Church, at the YWCA. Speaking on a panel on “Religious Brotherhood” at the college, during Brotherhood Week, Kenneth Christian freely mentioned the Bahá’í Faith. Later he spoke to 22 people at a home meeting of Mormons and in March was asked to provide Bahá’í literature for a faculty member of the college who wished to include it in a new course being developed.
During the year the community met for social evenings built around the wrapping and dispatching of relief parcels to Europe, 17 being sent.
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIF.
This community accepted two new believers, and three youth reaching twenty-one became voting members. Study class held weekly for non-Bahá’ís averaged 10 in attendance with junior youth classes also weekly, attended by up to 13 children, mainly from families other than Bahá’í. Regular Friday night public meetings were held all year, and a meeting once a month designated as a special meeting, and averaging 31 in attendance. Two special meetings brought audiences of 175 and 225.
Paid advertisements have been run regularly in two large newspapers and there were good accompanying free news stories. The youth of this area planned and carried out a good series of fireside and public meetings.
ASTORIA, ORE.
This Assembly, newly formed by joint declaration of the nine members of the group, April 21, 1950, began with the pioneering efforts of Zara B. and Major E. Dunne who moved here from Seattle in May 1948. They set up a fireside weekly and invited their near neighbors. Their efforts were rewarded and in autumn of the same year the first Bahá’í Teaching Committee met followed by a luncheon for 27 persons, mainly friends who had never heard of the Faith before.
Public meetings were planned for each month and carried out, with speakers from surrounding cities and outstate communities, with help of the RTC of Oregon. Study classes were held at least weekly, some limited to Bahá’ís and others open. Although nearing the goal of nine members, on two occasions believers were confirmed only to move elsewhere. Finally in February this year the ninth declared himself, thus bringing the group its well-fought objective.
COLUMBIA, S.C.
Study classes held in various homes overlapped to cover most of the year, including one at the U.S.O. Club until the closing of these clubs, and one at the Chamber of Commerce, also open to all races. Six paid newspaper ads and four free articles helped publicize the Faith and these activities as well as the visit of the Fords.
Mrs. Bahíyyih Ford spoke to a class of 100 at University of S.C., on subject of United Nations, “One World,” receiving an invitation to speak to a group of 400 on her next visit. Her talks at Benedict College were so popular that it was necessary to move to a larger auditorium to handle them.
Several non-Bahá’ís were present at meetings for the Declaration of the Báb and the Naw-Rúz Feast, and one guest at the latter asked permission to use the Hidden Words verse from a card presented to her, as table favors for a dinner party she was to give later. Of firesides held during the year, one turned up two African girls, students at Benedict College, so there was opportunity to show them the Nigerian Bahá’í youth in Bahá’í News and arrange for later meetings. The girls, Cora Boykin from Liberia, and Gladys O. Shajobi of Nigeria, were pleased at this contact with their home region.
CARMEL, CALIFORNIA
Much free publicity was given the Faith in the form of social items in
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Bahá’í Addresses
National Office:
Treasurer’s Office:
Illinois. Make Checks Payable to:
National Bahá’í Fund Bahá’í Publishing Committee:
Illinois. Make checks for books and pamphlets payable to: Bahá’í Publishing Committee
Bahá’í News Editorial Office:
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the local papers when Bahá’ís visited, news articles, and posters in shop windows. Over 500 pamphlets, Bahá’í World Faith, were distributed in less than five months from boxes placed in the bus and airport terminals and the taxi office.
Mrs. Mamie Seto held firesides on several occasions. In addition to these and other firesides, a series of public lectures on Comparative Religion were held in October. Speakers were Dr. John Stroessler, Mrs. Louise Groger, Firuz Kazemzadeh, and Dr. Mildred Nichols.
NEW HAVEN, CONNECTICUT
At public feasts, anniversaries, and special meetings, the New Haven Community had in attendance at each event from 2 to 17 non-Bahá’ís.
“Peace Through World Religion” was the topic of Mr. William P. Patzer’s talk for World Religion Day. This meeting was publicized by 500 cards of invitation as well as notices in the daily papers.
Study classes have been held regularly every Monday night. Some Answered Questions has been studied. On alternate Mondays, Dr. Alice Kidder, Greenwich, of the Regional Teaching Committee has assisted by teaching. One youth has received instruction each Friday night.
HARTFORD, CONNECTICUT
Miss Anabelle Ivory, George Goodman, Karl Krug, Dr. David Ruhe, and Rustam Payman were speakers for the public meetings. A successful Summer Session consisted of two classes a week for six weeks. Further teaching efforts included a weekly study in Administration for Bahá’ís and an informal class for non-Bahá’ís.
BOISE, IDAHO
The Bahá’ís of Boise held various types of public meetings, symposiums, a panel, lectures and films with the following subjects included: When East and West Meet; What Is My Religion; These Days of Unfoldment; America’s Great Opportunity; He, The Spirit of Truth Is Come.
The guest speakers were college professors, an attorney, and the Asst. State Superintendent of Schools. Invitations with literature were mailed for the meetings and literature pertaining to the subject was given out at the door. A guest book was maintained.
On World Religion Day, three Bahá’ís spoke on “Progressive Revelation,” “Basic Similarities of All Revealed Faiths,” and “Civilization of Bahá’u’lláh.” Open house was held before the lectures and a film, “The Goal is World Order,” was shown intermittingly in one room. In another, literature was on display. Refreshments were served after the program.
Publishing Announcement[edit]
In Bahá’í News for May, 1949, under the heading “First Things First” the National Spiritual Assembly urges the believers to review the successive messages from Haifa, beginning with The Citadel of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh, that they may see how the Guardian has been preparing us for specific and concerted sacrifice. In case there is need of this important letter, (the believers have all had copies, of course, but sometimes they are mislaid) the Publishing Committee has copies for sale, price 10c each. We also have The Challenging Requirements of the Present Hour sent to us by the Guardian in June 1947. This letter should be reread and reread** price per copy 25c.
- ** self cover 36 pages
Important: International Relief[edit]
The friends are asked to send no packages and no letters to the east zone of Germany. This is an urgent request.
There is no created thing but is overshadowed by Thine all-conquering power, and is vitalized through Thine all-embracing sovereignty.
Maywood, Illinois, juniors had a program and lawn party in Mid-July. The children ranging in age from 10-13 presented the life of Qurratu’l-‘Ayn.
Contributions from Assemblies for the Month of August, 1950[edit]
Alaska — Anchorage. Arizona — North Phoenix, Phoenix, Tucson. Arkansas — Eureka Springs, Little Rock. California — Alhambra, Berkeley, Beverly Hills, Burlingame, Geyserville, El Monte Twp., Escondido Twp., Fresno, Glendale, Glendale Twp., Inglewood, Long Beach, Los Angeles, Monrovia, Monrovia Twp., Oakland, Oceanside, Palo Alto, Pasadena, Sacramento, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Francisco, Santa Barbara, Santa Monica, South Gate.
Colorado — Colorado Springs, Denver. Connecticut — Greenwich, Hartford, New Haven. Delaware — Wilmington. Dist. of Columbia — Washington. Florida — Jacksonville, Miami, St. Augustine, Georgia — Atlanta, Augusta, Hawaii — Honolulu, Maui, Idaho — Ada County, Boise. Illinois — Batavia, Champaign, Chicago, Danville, Evanston, Maywood, Oak Park, Peoria, Springfield, Urbana, Wilmette, Winnetka.
Indiana — Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, South Bend, Iowa — Cedar Rapids, Waterloo. Kansas — Topeka. Louisiana — New Orleans, Maine — Eliot, Portland. Massachusetts — Beverly, Boston, Brookline, Springfield, Worcester. Michigan — Battle Creek, Detroit, Flint, Grand Rapids, Lansing, Muskegon.
Minnesota — Duluth, Minneapolis, St. Paul. Mississippi — Jackson. Missouri — Independence, Kansas City, St. Louis. Montana — Helena, Great Falls, Nebraska — Macy, Omaha. Nevada — Reno. New Hampshire — Portsmouth. New Jersey — Dumont, Jersey City, Newark, Ridgewood, Teaneck. New York — Binghamton, Buffalo, Geneva, Hamburg, Jamestown, Mount Vernon, New York, Rochester, Syracuse, Waterloo, Yonkers.
North Carolina — Greensboro. North Dakota — Fargo. Ohio — Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, E. Cleveland, Lima, Toledo. Oklahoma — Oklahoma City. Oregon — Astoria, Portland. Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, Scranton, West Chester. Rhode Island — Providence.
South Carolina — Greenville, Columbia. South Dakota — Sioux Falls. Tennessee — Memphis. Texas — Dallas, Houston, San Antonio. Vermont —Brattleboro. Virginia — Alexandria, Arlington. Washington — Kirkland, Monroe, Richmond Highlands, Seattle, Spokane, West Virginia — Charleston. Wisconsin — Kenosha, Madison, Milwaukee, Racine, Somers Twp., Wauwatosa. Wyoming — Laramie.
Special Contributions:
- Bahá’í Group of North Sydney
- Bahá’í Youth of Milwaukee
- Bahá’í Assembly of Adelaide, S.A.
| Total number of assemblies | 167 |
| Assemblies contributing in August | 148 |
| Assemblies not contributing in August | 19 |
| Groups contributing | 55 |
| Individuals contributing | 225 |
Enrollments[edit]
Enrollments reported by Local Spiritual Assemblies:
CALIF., Los Angeles 2; WASH., D. C. 1; FLA., Miami 1; MASS., Springfield 1; OHIO. Cleveland 3; PA., Philadelphia 1; TENN., Nashville 1; WASH., Seattle 2; WIS., Milwaukee 3; Wauwatosa 1; YOUTH 1.
Enrollments reported by Regional Teaching Committees:
NORTHEASTERN STATES
- Central New York 1
- Mass., R. I., Vt., 1
- So. N. Y. Conn. 1
CENTRAL STATES
- Ill., Iowa 1
- Wis. 4
- Mich. 6
- Ohio 1
WESTERN STATES
- So. Calif. 1
- Ore. 1 Youth
- Alaska 1
- Wash. 2
- No. Calif., Nev. 3
SOUTHERN STATES
- E. Division
- Del., Md., Dist. of Columbia 1
TOTALS:
- Adult—39
- Youth—2
Second Annual World Religion Day[edit]
The third Sunday in January, 1951, will be observed as World Religion Day by the American Bahá’í Community, in accordance with the establishment of this public event last year.
From the widespread interest aroused by the first World Religion Day, the National Assembly anticipates even more effective public programs, local and national, in 1951. It is gratifying to report that several other National Assemblies have recognized World Religion Day, making it an international activity of the Faith.
Detailed plans will be reported to the friends by the Committee or Committees directly concerned. Mark the date on your calendar and begin your local planning well in advance. World Religion Day is one of our most effective agencies for public proclamation of the Faith.
From NSA[edit]
The National Spiritual Assembly wishes to inform the believers that a letter has been received from Miss Josephine Kruka stating her name was used by Mr. James Overbeck in his Ozarks project without her knowledge and consent.
Marriages[edit]
Portland, Oregon. Barbara Jean Jacobson to Calvin E. Steinmetz, July 16, 1950.
Boise, Idaho. Jayna Loy Walker to Frank R. Erfurth, May 22, 1950.
Correction[edit]
In the July issue of Bahá’í News there occurs an error in the International Relief Annual Report on page 14. The fifth line should read “Bahá’í Communities” rather than “Bahá’í Committees.”
We must endeavor night and day to purify the hearts from every dross, sanctify the souls from every restriction, and become free from the discords of the human world. Then the divine bestowals will become evident in their fullness and glory.
There is need of a superior power to overcome human prejudices; a power which nothing in the world of mankind can withstand and which will overshadow the effect of all other forces at work in human conditions. That irresistible power is the love of God.
| Guardian | |
Be Reborn | 3 |
Cables | 3 |
Grown Up at Last | 4 |
Hussein | 4 |
Psychiatry | 4 |
“To Each One Personally” | 2 |
To European Teaching Conference | 1 |
To NSA | 2 |
Annual Reports, Local Assemblies | 14 |
Braille Around the World | 13 |
Calendar | 2 |
Centenary by Radio | 7 |
Contributions from Assemblies | 16 |
Enrollments | 16 |
First European Summer School | 12 |
In Memoriam | 7 |
Latin America | 7 |
Local Centenary Reports | 5 |
Marriages | 16 |
Memorial Contributions | 9 |
Message to Guardian from the European Conference | 13 |
NSA Schedule of Meetings | 2 |
Pictures |
|
Alaskan Children’s Float | 14 |
Gulick and Eichenauer | 9 |
Maywood Children | 15 |
Outgoing Pioneers | 8 |
San Francisco Displays | 5 |
Third European Teaching Conference | 1 |
Second World Religion Day | 16 |
Temple Interior Resolves | 8 |
Third European Teaching Conference | 10 |
Toward Complete Victory | 4 |
