Bahá’í News/Issue 247/Text
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| BAHÁ’Í NEWS |
| Bahá’ís of the United States |
| NO. 247 | BAHÁ’Í YEAR 108 | SEPTEMBER, 1951 |
Messages from the Guardian[edit]
“Deserves Rank of First Hand of the Cause of His Race”[edit]
After Passing of Louis G. Gregory:
“Profoundly deplore grievous loss dearly beloved, noble-minded, golden-hearted Louis Gregory, pride (and) example (to the) Negro adherents (of the) Faith, keenly feel loss (of) one so loved, admired (and) trusted (by) ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Deserves rank (of) first Hand (of the) Cause (of) his race. Rising Bahá’í generation African continent will glory (in) his memory (and) emulate his example. Advise hold memorial gathering (in) Temple (in) token recognition (of his) unique position, outstanding services.”
Cablegram received August 6, 1951
“The Decision Is Momentous”[edit]
Dear Bahá’í Brother:
Your letter of May 2nd was received by our beloved Guardian and brought him great joy.
The decision you have taken to go to Africa and teach the Cause is momentous and is worthy of the great race you belong to. The Guardian has been eagerly awaiting a Negro pioneer, and feels that Bahá’u’lláh will surely bless your enterprise and assist you in this work you are planning for His Faith.
You are fortunate to have a wife by your side kindled with the same enthusiasm and determination, and your joint labours will be a tremendous asset to the new campaign in Africa.
The Guardian has recently called upon India and Persia to open up further territories, and he feels that this pioneer effort—the first in Bahá’í history linking five NSA’s in an international undertaking—is truly historic and of the greatest importance.
He will ardently pray that the way may speedily open for you to go to a goal country in Africa, and he urges you to persevere in your efforts. We all have weak points, but when we arise to serve Bahá’u’lláh He helps us overcome them in a truly miraculous way!
(Signed) R. RABBANI
(In the Guardian’s handwriting)
May the Almighty bless, guide and sustain you always, enable you to fulfill your heart’s desire, set a noble example to the Negro believers, and win great and memorable victories in that promising Continent.
SHOGHI
Dated June 4, 1951
“Herald of Covenant”[edit]
“Deeply grieved (at) sudden passing (of) herald (of the) Covenant, Ella Cooper, dearly loved handmaid (of) ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, greatly trusted by Him. Her devoted services during concluding years (of) Heroic Age and also Formative Age (of) Faith unforgettable. Assure relatives, friends, deepest sympathy (for) loss. Praying (for) progress (of her) soul in Abhá Kingdom.”
Cable received July 18, 1951
View of the recently completed last terrace of the Shrine of the Báb. This photograph has been received from the Guardian for reproduction in Bahá’í News. Reference to the Guardian’s cable of April 2, 1951, already published, will give Shoghi Effendi’s own statement about the terraces connecting the Báb’s Sepulchre with the Templar colony at the foot of Mount Carmel.
Daily Obligatory Prayers[edit]
The Guardian’s Statement[edit]
The daily obligatory prayers are three in number. The shortest one consists of a single verse which has to be recited once in every twenty-four hours and at midday. The medium (prayer) which begins with the words: “The Lord is witness that there is none other God but He,” has to be recited three times a day, in the morning, at noon and in the evening. The long
[Page 2]
prayer which is the most elaborate of the three has
to be recited once in every twenty-four hours, and at
any time one feels inclined to do so.
The believer is entirely free to choose any one of those three prayers, but is under the obligation of reciting one of them, and in accordance with any specific directions with which they may be accompanied.
These daily obligatory prayers, together with a few
other specific ones, such as the Healing Prayer, the
Tablet of Aḥmad, have been invested by Bahá’u’lláh
with a special potency and significance, and should
therefore be accepted as such and be recited by the
believers with unquestioned faith and confidence, that
through them they may enter into a much closer communion with God, and identify themselves more fully
with His laws and precepts.
Dated—January 10, 1936
ARE WE PREPARED?[edit]
Dearly Beloved Friends:
The August issue of Bahá’í News carries the distressing message from our National Treasurer, that contributions to the national treasury for the first two months of this critical Bahá’í Year, were only one-half of the amount of our Budget.
The National Assembly had hoped that this failure to meet our responsibilities was only temporary and would be more than made up by contributions in the following months.
We now are one-third through the Bahá’í Year. Our contributions during these four months have been only a little over half of our budget requirements. The Budget for these months amounted to $150,000 for all Funds, including Shrine Construction, Temple Landscaping, and general expenses. Our contributions have amounted to approximately $85,000.
On the other hand, the work on the Shrine has progressed, even ahead of schedule, and funds had to be sent to Italy to meet payments due. The National Treasurer had to borrow funds from the Temple Interior Construction Fund, to meet the Shrine payments—and even to meet current general expenses. Amounts borrowed are as follows:
Shrine of the Báb | $47,929.12 |
General Expenses | 3,500.00 |
What is to be done when final payments must be made on Temple Interior Ornamentation work late in September or early in October?
Dear friends, this is a period of grave testing. We all apparently realized this at the Convention in April, when we told the Guardian, “we are prepared” to meet the heavy financial responsibilities of the Faith during the present year. That we will meet these opportunities of sacrificial service, there can be no doubt, but, we must immediately make substantial contributions to the national treasury, so we may be able to repay loans to the Temple Interior Construction Fund, by the end of September.
We are informed that the beloved Guardian has found some relief from his heavy burdens by the rapid progress of the work on the Shrine of the Báb, so dear to his heart. Work should be under way on the landscaping of the Temple grounds if it is to be finished by the spring of 1953. The last phases of the interior ornamentation of the Temple are now being concluded and must be paid for.
The life blood of these activities is the funds, flowing into the national treasury. May we keep the organism of the Faith pulsating with vigor and enthusiasm, by meeting our accepted responsibilities and quickly make up our shortage of $65,000 on budget requirements—and then continue this united sacrifice and meet our budget requirements currently. Budget requirements are $37,500 per month.
An integral part of the financial structure, is the Resolve Plan covering the Shrine Construction work, and Temple Landscaping. This plan was developed in compliance with the wishes of the delegates at the last Convention. Responses are very disappointing. It was estimated that if 2,000 Bahá’ís responded to the Resolve Plan, in appropriate categories, we could reach the goal. To date, instead of 2,000 responses, we have less than 500.
In conclusion, one word seems important. Some of the friends have felt that when they send funds directly to the Guardian in response to his gracious permission to do so, this has fulfilled their obligations for the Shrine of the Báb construction work. That is not the case. The American Bahá’ís have assumed collectively, responsibility for payment of the marble contracts being executed in Italy, amounting to $207,000 including freight charges, and $20,000 for steel and sash contracts. Of this total of $227,000 for which we have assumed obligation, $30,000 was paid last year, leaving approximately $200,000 to be met by the friends collectively, through the national treasury. The only way this can be done, is by contributions from the friends, and payment of Resolve Plan obligations.
Bahá’í Holy Days[edit]
The Guardian’s Message[edit]
This statement by Shoghi Effendi was sent in a letter dated July 7, 1947, through his secretary, and has appeared twice in Bahá’í News since its receipt by the National Spiritual Assembly, that all believers may be informed.
“He wishes also to stress the fact that, according to the Bahá’í laws, work is forbidden on our nine Holy Days. Believers who have independent businesses or shops should refrain from working on these days. Those who are in government employ should, on religious grounds, make an effort to be excused from work; all believers, whoever their employers, should do likewise. If the government or other employers refuse to grant them these days off, they are not required to forfeit their employment, but they should make every effort to have the independent status of the Faith recognized and their right to hold their own religious Holy Days acknowledged.”
The nine Holy Days listed on the back of the calendar distributed each year by the Publishing Committee are:
- The first day of Riḍván
- The ninth day of Riḍván
- The twelfth day of Riḍván
- The Anniversary of the Declaration of the Báb
- The Anniversary of the Birth of Bahá’u’lláh
- The Anniversary of the Birth of the Báb
- The Anniversary of the Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh
- The Anniversary of the Martyrdom of the Báb
- The Feast of Naw-Rúz.
Interior Ornamentation, Bahá’í House of Worship[edit]
In this issue of Bahá’í News appear the first photographs of the Temple interior as it appears after completion of the contracts begun in 1949.
The permanent seats will be installed later during the early autumn of the present year.
In referring to a “completed interior” the friends understand that what has actually been completed are the main contracts. Certain supplementary contracts or installations, for example, draperies at the windows, may be undertaken later.
When, however, the workmen left the building toward the end of July, a great milestone of progress had been achieved.
Plans for landscaping the grounds will be presented as soon as they are developed to a definite stage.
The National Spiritual Assembly designated August 11 as a special day for Wilmette residents to inspect the interior, and the photographs reproduced here were taken for use in the local paper, Wilmette Life, which featured the invitation. The statement prepared for the Wilmette paper made it clear that the Temple will not be formally opened for public services until 1953.
The providing of newspaper releases and photographs of the interior for use throughout the country is the work of the Public Relations Committee.
This photograph taken from first gallery, showing continuance of vertical columns to base of dome, and a view of the dome ornamentation.—Photo by Harvey Steffens
View from first gallery. The horizontal ornamentation encircles the central area, forming arches for the alcoves and railing for the gallery. The vertical ornamentation carries up the supporting columns to the circumference of the dome.—Photo by Harvey Steffens.
View across main floor of Temple auditorium after completion of the contracts begun in 1949. The seats are to be installed a little later, and the nine texts are still to be set in place in the alcoves. Visitors are deeply impressed by the majestic interior of the Bahá’í House of Worship.—Photo by Harvey Steffens.
The Question of Economy in Local Plans and Activities[edit]
Every local Assembly has become aware of the urgent need for economy in its use of Bahá’í funds in order to serve the greater international and national undertakings of the Faith until 1953.
There seems, however, to be a difference of view as to how the principle of economy applies. The question has been already raised: Shall we give up our local center?
The National Spiritual Assembly wishes to reassure the friends that economy by no means implies a total cessation of expenditures.
For example, a local center may be essential for the maintenance of the unity of the friends. It may be required for Nineteen Day Feasts, Anniversaries and study classes, as well as for holding public meetings.
The first obligation of an Assembly is to keep the community intact, and provide for the observance of the various community activities. The second obligation is to teach, to spread the Message, to publicize the Faith.
Wise economy can be exercised in fulfilling the second obligation, but nothing should be permitted to prevent the Assembly from observing its first duty.
In the true, organic sense, economy means the adjustment of means to ends. The ends, or aims, of our current activities have been greatly enlarged, to include the Shrine and the World Center. Therefore, our means must be increased, our sense of obligation strengthened, our self-sacrifice intensified, so that a greater flow of funds can be maintained.
A man attempting to repay a debt cannot economize on food or shelter, because to do so will deplete his strength and frustrate his purpose.
In each local community the conditions are unique. Every Assembly must weigh its obligations and opportunities, and seek wisdom to make the right decision.
Preparation of Youth in Study of the Will and Testament[edit]
The recent Convention discussed the need to assure the proper preparation of Bahá’í youth for enrollment by thorough understanding of the Master’s Will and Testament.
Since the Bahá’í youth attains voting right on reaching the age of twenty-one, without further declaration of faith or particular obligation to study, it is evident that prior to youth dedication at the age of fifteen, the Will and Testament must be expounded.
Therefore, the National Spiritual Assembly, acclaiming the ardor of the youthful generation, expresses the conviction that those who prepare the youthful applicant will be faithful to their responsibility.
The local Assembly and the Regional Teaching Committee, the two agencies which countersign and transmit enrollment cards to the National Administrative Headquarters are to take whatever steps are necessary to insure that the youth understands what the full text of the Will and Testament means.
The Will and Testament has been described and analyzed by the Guardian, so that its vital place in the literature of the Faith is apparent to all, and its fundamental points can be clearly explained.
The National Assembly likewise suggests that the declaration of faith made by Bahá’í youth should become an occasion of joy and spiritual significance. Not ritualism but awareness by the Assembly and community, and their intense interest, will make the event outstanding in the experience of youth.
Bahá’í Draftees to Seek Bahá’í Status[edit]
The National Spiritual Assembly wishes to emphasize once more the important matter of the obligation of Bahá’ís called to serve in the military forces of their country.
First, it is incumbent upon the believers to apply for non-combatant status in conformity with the Guardian’s directions. There is no choice in this matter. The Bahá’í cannot decide whether or not to comply, because the Bahá’í way to act has been established for us all by our highest spiritual authority.
The second duty is for the believer to request religious identification as a Bahá’í, not as a Protestant, Catholic or Jew. The Bahá’í Faith is included in the U. S. Census as a separate religion, and the military authorities have given permission for the use of the Bahá’í symbol on the headstone of believers buried in military cemeteries.
If the individual believer making effort to obtain Bahá’í status encounters any difficulty, he may apply to the National Spiritual Assembly for advice and assistance.
The Youth Committee, local Assemblies and Regional Teaching Committees can promote unity of understanding and solidarity of action by impressing these duties upon Bahá’í youth.
Directory Additions and Changes[edit]
Local spiritual Assembly Secretaries:
- Geneva, New York
- Mrs. Nancy Grammar, Secretary
- 14 Elmwood Pl.
Regional Teaching Committees:
- Alabama
- Mr. Count Harvey, Chairman
- Mrs. Rose Brown, Secretary
- 988 First St., No.
- Birmingham, Ala.
- Texas
- Mr. Edward Gray, Chairman
- Mrs. Mary Rublee, Secretary
- 118 W. Malone
- San Antonio, Texas
National Committees:
- Service to the Blind
- Mrs. Alethe Hogberg, Secretary
- 5540 Marburn Ave.
- Los Angeles 43, Calif.
National Bahá’í Administrative Headquarters, 536 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, Illinois.
National Treasurer, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois.
Bahá’í Publishing Committee, 110 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois.
Bahá’í News Editorial Office—see notice elsewhere in this issue.
International News[edit]
News from Africa Committee[edit]
The total number of American believers who have volunteered for pioneer work in Africa has now risen to 23. In this group there are a number of believers with technical and professional skill which should be much in demand in Africa. Some skills represented are in the field of engineering, nutrition, physical therapy, agriculture, animal husbandry, etc.
The Committee is vigilantly pursuing all possible avenues to assure the early departure of some of these friends to the Africa area.
The Guardian’s communications have indicated that “speedy, resolute action” is desired from both the American and British Committee. The American Committee is striving to get pioneers into Africa by the Fall and we have written the Beloved Guardian advising him of our plan and requesting his prayers.
Since our last item the Guardian has extended the scope of the project by assigning specific areas to certain Assemblies which are to be supplementary to the main project now being supervised by the British. As matters now stand the United States of America has Liberia; India has Zanzibar and Madagascar; Persia has Somaliland, Nyassaland, and Northern Rhodesia; and Egypt has Libya and Algeria.
Five Bahá’ís left England for Dar-es-Salaam in June. This brings the strength of the British group now located in East Africa to 7 believers.
The Committee also wishes to report that Mr. William Foster, our first African volunteer, has received a beautiful and inspiring letter from the Guardian which is being published in this issue of Bahá’í News.
One member of the Africa Committee, Mrs. Ethel Stephens, attended the Institute on Contemporary Africa which was conducted by Northwestern University during July. The objectives of this Institute were particularly interesting to the committee.
The Institute was given to impress the largest possible group with the political, social, economic and cultural importance of Africa; to encourage interest in the traditions, culture, history and ethnic concerns of Africa as a logical area for American scholarship, and to develop a corps of specially qualified persons who can interpret the complex dynamic situation of contemporary Africa to Americans concerned with African affairs.
The Committee representative brought back valuable material from this course which was made available to various persons handling African programs in the Summer Schools and is available to the Assemblies wishing to conduct such programs.
In addition to the course given by Mr. Matthew Bullock at the International School in Colorado in July, the committee reports that Louhelen Bahá’í School also conducted two Institutes for prospective pioneers; one for Senior Youth and one for young adults. Mr. Robert Wolff of Michigan who has volunteered for pioneer service was in charge of these institutes. Emphasis on Africa was also given through at least one workshop meeting in which Mr. Ernest Welsing, Mr. Larry Hautz, Mr. Matthew Bullock, Mr. Elsworth Blackwell and Mr. John Robarts were contributors.
The British Africa Committee reports that the Twi translation of an African pamphlet has now been completed. Our committee will have available certain African pamphlets for those who have contacted African students who speak those languages. When the pamphlets arrive the committee will make the announcement in Bahá’í News.
Another U. S. Africa Bulletin will be ready in September.
“The stage is set. The hour is propitious. The signal is sounded. Bahá’u’lláh’s spiritual battalions are moving into position ....”
News from Britain[edit]
One of the three goals of the British Two Year Plan is to consolidate the Communities established by the end of the Six year Plan which finished in 1950. Most of these are still very weak in numbers; indeed, some have been reduced to fewer than nine members since Riḍván of this year, so that a big task of consolidation has to be faced in the next two years, besides the immense tasks in Africa. A Consolidation Committee and four Teaching Committees have been appointed to help the Community achieve this goal. These will be guided by two principles regarded as fundamental to their task by the British National Assembly: (1) Recognition of the spiritual status of Local Spiritual Assemblies, and (2) Seeking to foster their sense of responsibility as “Trustees of the Merciful” for the believers in their communities. Extensive teaching tours have been carried out recently by Mrs. Hutchison Smith from Australia, Mrs. Marion Little from Italy, and Professor Zeine, a temporary member of the British Community.
June and July have seen an efflux of pioneers to Africa—no fewer than eight set out from Britain during these months, four of whom came from Persia. Progress has also been made with the third goal of the British Two Year Plan, the translation of Bahá’í literature into several African languages. The Guardian has given permission for pioneers to be sent to Kenya in addition to the goal territories of the Two Year Plan, and the British friends hope it may be possible for them also to send at least one pioneer to each of the British colonial territories to which the Guardian has instructed the Persian and Indian Bahá’ís to send pioneers, for he has said that any assistance given to these projects will be deeply appreciated. The contribution of the British Community to the Africa Project should be hastened by an important cable from the Guardian in which he urges them: “Aware urgency task, act speedily, resolutely, despatch without delay volunteers, settle pioneers, disseminate literature, initiate teaching activities, establish fruitful contacts, ensure steady enrollment fresh recruits amongst tribes, races far-flung virgin territories.”
OF THE BAHÁ’ÍS OF THE BRITISH ISLES
Meso America and the Antilles[edit]
The principle consideration in the plans of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of this area is to follow as closely as possible the three points of importance mentioned in the Guardian’s cables to the new Latin American Conventions.
[Page 6]
Considerable attention is being paid to stressing the
need throughout the area of a much greater understanding of the administration of the Faith. Local assemblies are being taught, by means of the National
Teaching Committee and the Bahá’í Bulletin to acquire
a much higher concept of their own importance as
governing bodies. They are being groomed slowly but
surely to realize that they are not merely groups of
nine people gathered together in a purely spiritual unity,
but nine members of a governing body, gathered together to maintain order and peace in their own communities, resolve their problems through the medium of
prayer and consultation and to devise efficient ways and
means of spreading the Faith in the territory under their
immediate jurisdiction.
A two-year plan is being evolved by the Assembly, based on the Guardian’s three points and outlining definite steps to be taken along those lines.
The committee in charge of the incorporation of the National Assembly continues to work on the project. Difficulty has been encountered in the choosing of an official name for the Assembly, since so many geographical and political entities are amalgamated under the jurisdiction of one national governing body.
The National Teaching Committee planned a schedule for the interval between Assembly meetings, and pioneer teachers are at work in Jamaica, Cuba and Honduras, along with resident pioneers in El Salvador, Puerto Rico and Costa Rica. Each community has been studying lesson four of the Divine Plan, under the guidance of teachers appointed from each community. A new schedule is being mapped out for the next trimester, subject to the approval of the National Assembly at its meeting on July 27.
The Public Relations Committee has prepared excellent radio talks, press releases, and anniversary celebration material.
At this writing the Bulletin is on the press, a special edition of fourteen pages giving ample coverage to the Convention, and including important educational items, as well as news.
OF THE BAHÁ’ÍS OF MESO AMERICA
AND THE ANTILLES
Report April 21, to July 15, 1951
South America[edit]
South America is approximately 4000 air miles from tip to toe; 2500 air miles wide from Lima, Peru to Bahia, Brazil. The National Spiritual Assembly of South America has three members on the East coast, three on the West coast, one member in the extreme North, one in the Southernmost city, and one in the heart of the continent. For the six members living outside of Lima, Peru, a total of 11,000 miles must be traversed (as the crow flies). This will give our friends an idea of the distance to be traveled in order that the nine members meet.
But how confident we have been made of the guidance of Bahá’u’lláh! All nine members were able to stay for a ten-day session immediately after the convention. In July we were able to have a quorum because facilities for less expensive travel were obtained; and we pray that these same facilities will be forthcoming in November for all nine members to come together.
The National Teaching Committee began immediately after the convention to prepare a study course, “This Our Year of Dedication,” based on the three goals that our beloved Guardian has set for us this year. Briefly they are Consolidation of the two new National Spiritual Assemblies, stimulation of the propagation of the Teachings, enrichment of the spiritual life and deepening in the knowledge of the Faith.
These mimeographed courses will reach the ten South American countries in time for their Regional Institutes in September. We pray that through this medium there will be brought to all the South American countries some of the inspirational moments experienced at the convention as well as definite plans to carry through to victory the Guardian’s goals for us.
The National Youth Committee has sent out a call to the Bahá’í Youth in all the Bahá’í communities of South America to form Bahá’í Youth Groups, and also Amity clubs in order to contact more youth. They have written letters to all the National Youth Committees in the world, soliciting their bulletins and asking for suggestions in order that they may be equipped to give to the youth of South America the wider vision of the Cause they serve.
The National Indian Teaching Committee has reported that they have requested a survey to be made in all the countries of South America in order to gain a knowledge of Indian culture, language, etc., in each area. The headquarters for the Indian work is in Ecuador. They have already made a complete survey of their own country and reported that the Administration of Census and Literacy have offered to help them to start literacy classes among the Indians. The National Indian Teaching Committee plans in this way to form a link that will lead to giving this noble race the worldwide message of Bahá’u’lláh.
The Bahá’í Community of La Paz, Bolivia offered a sum of money to be used for literature for the Indians. The National Spiritual Assembly has voted that this sum be used to get the simple story of the Faith in two Indian languages, Aymara and Quechua, thus carrying out the desire of the Guardian in a letter written by R. Rabbani, dated November 17, 1945, “He thinks it would be an excellent idea to translate some of the teachings into the native Indian language.”
Egypt and the Sudan: National Election[edit]
At the 28th Convention of the Bahá’ís of Egypt and the Sudan, held from April 28 to 30, 1951, the following National Spiritual Assembly was elected:
Mohammed Mostafa Soliman, Chairman; Iskandar Hanna, Vice-Chairman; Ali Hussein Ruhi, Secretory; Sobhi Elias, Treasurer.
Members: Dr. Rochan Yazdi, Abdul Fattah Sabri, Abdul Rahim Yazdi, Hussein Amin Bikar, Mostafa Salim.
An epoch-making step in Bahá’í administration was the granting to local assemblies the right to include women in their membership. Four assemblies in their elections promptly took advantage of this more inclusive policy: Cairo, Alexandria, Port Said and Khartoum.
The Egyptian Assembly is entering again into the publication of books, as the ban on Bahá’í literature has been lifted.
European Teaching Conference and Summer School[edit]
The Fourth European Teaching Conference and its attendant Summer School will be held not in Rome but in Scheveningen on the outskirts of The Hague. This change, in location only, is due to reasons outside of the control of the European Teaching Committee. Committee member attending the Conference will be Miss Edna True. Now pioneering in the Netherlands are Eleanor Hollibaugh and Rita Van Sombeek.
On her way home from the Conference Miss Edna True plans to visit the communities of Barcelona, Madrid and Lisbon. In Lisbon Mrs. Dorothy Baker will be visiting her daughter and son-in-law, Hubert and Louise Matthias, until the latter part of August.
Believers from England, Persia, and India, gathered together in Dar-es-salaam, Tanganyika.
American Teaching:[edit]
A Touch of the Unusual[edit]
Bahá’ís are becoming increasingly aware of the necessity for using every opportunity to make the ideals of their Faith known.
When Mr. and Mrs. William Frey gave their newborn daughter the name Tahirih, they sent announcements to their friends and to the newspapers telling the story of the great Bahá’í heroine. The Daily News of Springfield, Massachusetts, described the birth announcement, outlined the career of Ṭáhirih, and quoted, “It should be of interest to the women of the United States that the first woman suffrage martyr was not a Westerner at all, but this young woman poet of Iran ... Ṭáhirih.”
Bahá’ís from Chicago and Milwaukee have recently been invited to participate in Inter-Faith radio broadcasts with large radio audiences. In Ann Arbor, the university radio station has asked the Dutch student, Robert Wolff, to take part on their program, “Radio Roundtable.” Recently the program director asked his wife, former pioneer to Holland, Elinor Gregory, to take part on the program “How to Preserve Peace.” The moderator asked her what her standpoint was as a Bahá’í saying that she had traveled in Europe for the Cause and that the Bahá’í World Faith was a religion that was daily increasing in importance and popularity. This program is sent to several countries by the “Voice of America.” Students from Korea and Nigeria were on the same program and have since shown interest in the Faith.
Anchorage introduces the Faith to thousands via prize-winning float in Fourth-of-July parade.
The Anchorage Assembly once again entered a float
in the fourth of July parade and won $35 in prizes.
More important, 15,000 Alaskans were introduced to the
names Bahá’u’lláh and Bahá’í and to the concept “Ye
are all the leaves of one tree and the flowers of one
garden.”
Members of B’nai B’rith some of the Bahá’ís of Beverly Hills, California, and two officers of the Israeli Navy (second row, left and right), at a meeting at which Mr. Robert Powers (first row, extreme right) was the Bahá’í guest speaker.
The article in Life brought several members of the
B’nai B’rith of Beverly Hills to the local World Religion
Day celebration and to subsequent study class meetings.
It also paved the way for a meeting at which Robert
Powers was invited to speak on “The Bahá’í World
Faith” to 400 members of B’nai B’rith and their friends,
among whom were two officers of the Israeli Navy.
These young men told, informally, of their impressions
of the beautiful Bahá’í Shrines and gardens at Haifa.
South America[edit]
The First Annual Convention[edit]
The following excerpts from the official report of the Convention at Lima, bring us into a more immediate contact with that momentous event.
“A stream of delegates and Bahá’í friends from every country of the vast South American Continent converged April 22nd, 1951, upon Lima, Capital and garden city of Peru, to celebrate there the first annual Bahá’í Convention of South America,” wrote Larry Kramer, Sheila Rice-Wray and Dorothy Campbell, pioneers to Ecuador and Bolivia, who served as official reporters at the Convention. “In the flower-decked hotel in one of the loveliest sections of the city, the members of the Community of Lima, and their new daughter Community of Callao, which had just elected its first assembly, waiting to greet the friends with a welcoming reception and were hosts afterward at the beautiful Riḍván Feast.
“With the atmosphere prepared by a devotional period of readings from the Sacred Scriptures of Bahá’u’lláh, Paul Haney, chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States, formally opened the historic Convention the following morning.”
As soon as the Convention officers had been elected, the cable from the Guardian (which has appeared in the June Bahá’í News) was studied, and the following reply was sent:
“Assembled delegates, friends first South American Convention send loving greetings, ardent prayers, appreciation you inspiring cable. Treasure deeply gift blessed hair Bahá’u’lláh. Pledge wholehearted dedication fulfill three-fold sacred responsibilities. Recognize tremendous opportunities new, broader phase evolution beloved Faith Latin America. Supplicate your continued prayers.”
“Reverence enfolded the opening of the second day of the Convention,” the reporters continued. “The devotions raised us to a high plane of spirit, preparing us for the birth of our National Spiritual Assembly.
“Paul Haney gave clear, concise instructions on how to vote, stressing the importance of the occasion, the deep feeling of dedication, the high spiritual development and the full maturity necessary to attract the Divine confirmations.
“Tellers were appointed, following with a prayer and then the wards of the Guardian were read. Three of the delegates read prayers for assistance and guidance, and then there was complete silence. In that stillness we were aware that our prayers were being answered, the aid of the Supreme Concourse and of the Chosen Angels was descending upon us, for the room was filled with power—a power so great, so concentrated in those few moments, that it seemed to press down upon us, and yet at the same time lifted us briefly into a rarified atmosphere of exaltation and joy. It was a soul-stirring experience. With the aid of that power was elected our first National Spiritual Assembly.”
“Despite distance, illness, and many other obstacles, 25 of the 27 official delegates had participated in this epoch-making election—18 personally and 7 by mail.”
When the results of the election were announced (see Bahá’í News, June, 1951) it was a moment of high dedication. “The faces of those who had just learned of their election showed shocked realization of their responsibility; tears of weakness welled up from within and coursed down their faces, as all became aware of their burden. Edna True asked for the Tablet of Aḥmad—which brought assurance that we are not alone, that, although mere human beings could not possibly achieve that which must be attained, we have the promise of God’s unfailing assistance and infinite mercy.”
“While the tellers were counting the votes, Paul Haney spoke of the institution of the National Fund, the lifeblood of the National Spiritual Assembly. He read the words of the Guardian addressed to the first National Spiritual Assembly of the United States and Canada, in which he says that contributing to the constant flow of funds is a sacred obligation of every conscientious follower of Bahá’u’lláh; that to provide sufficient funds for the vital work of the Cause of God, requires sacrifice and privation on the part of all believers, but each individual must decide for himself what point constitutes sacrifice, nor must we lose sight of the fact that we are giving to Bahá’u’lláh, so that His Cause may speedily triumph.”
Glimpses of the New National Assembly[edit]
“I had often wondered, when I thought of the vastness of this continent,” wrote Edmund J. Miessler of Sao Paulo, Brazil, “how it would be possible for a National Spiritual Assembly of South America to function, consult and help resolve the difficulties in Punta Arenas in the South, or in Caracas at the extreme North, about 4,500 air miles apart; or in Lima, Peru on the Pacific coast and Bahía on the Atlantic coast, about 2600 air miles distant from each other. Yet, when we began laying the groundwork for the teaching activities during the first year of this new stage of our development, we found that one or more members of the newly elected NSA was personally acquainted and familiar with the situation in every Bahá’í Community or group on this vast continent. Through our consultation we were conscious that ‘There is a Power in this Cause far above the ken of men and angels’. The members of the NSA have virtually been chosen from the four corners of this continent: Punto Arenas, Chile; Montevideo, Uruguay; Sao Paulo and Bahía, Brazil; Bogotá, Colombia; Lima, Peru and Asunción, Paraguay.
“It is interesting to note the varying backgrounds of the members. Some are speakers and accustomed to dealing with the public; some are pioneers who have had experience in organizing and preparing new communities; some are native believers, who have surged forward because of their love and intense enthusiasm for the Faith. Some of them have developed more in spiritual aspects of the Teachings; others have developed more their administrative characteristics, while still others strike a balance. The newly elected assembly met during a period of nine days with full membership and the tenth day with a quorum present. Daily sessions continued from six to ten hours. There was born immediately a spirit of loving unity, oneness of purpose, a realization of the great tasks which lie before us, and confidence that, through the guidance of Bahá’u’lláh and the loving counsel of our Guardian, the new goals will be reached and the newly formed foundations will be strengthened.”
Central America, Mexico and the Antilles[edit]
Some Comments on the First Convention[edit]
“Mrs. Dorothy Baker, vice-chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States and chairman of the Inter-America Committee, and Horace Holley, corresponding secretary of the National Assembly, served as special representatives of that sponsoring Assembly to our Convention,” wrote Miss Mary Binda, official reporter of the Central American Convention. “Mrs. Baker said that the birth of our Assembly synchronizes with very significant events in the Holy Land, because this year we have the first International Bahá’í Council, the chairman of which, Mason Remey, and the vice-chairman, Mrs. Amelia Collins, have contributed so much toward our own victory.
“She explained that we do not belong to the individual, local or national area of development, but to the international Bahá’í world,” and she added, ‘The National Assembly of the United States now delivers the Master’s magnificent Divine Plan for the West into your capable and efficient hands, and the next stage will be to awaken the sleeping giant of the Occident through your new-born organization.’
“The Convention of the Bahá’ís of Central America, Mexico and the Antilles, was in a way, the flowering of the preceding Teaching Congresses and Schools, which, feeble and immature at times in their earlier stages, evolved at last to magnificent degrees of preparatory experience in consultation,” Dorothy Baker reported. “As recently as February 18, 1951, our Guardian wrote through his secretary: ‘There is perhaps no single activity which stimulates Bahá’ís more than to be able to consult with believers from other communities and countries. It seems to attract an almost electrical discharge, if one can put it that way, of spiritual power and inspiration; and the repercussions go out into each Bahá’í life and create new activity in the service of the Cause.’ How apparent was that ‘electrical discharge of spiritual power and inspiration,’ as the friends of God gathered April 22, in Panama City, to cement their relationship of dedication to the purposes of the Guardian and to plan their first official acts in his behalf.
“The Spirit of Unity, so pre-eminently manifested throughout this historic occasion, was deeply reflected in the election of the first Central American National Spiritual Assembly. Out of the ‘rarified atmosphere’ engendered by the profound, prayerful silence of the election period, appeared a miracle in western internationalism of which all were conscious, when the names were read of those nine servants of the Covenant, selected as the first members of that august body. Gone were the old feelings of boundary separation, of psychological differences, of divided race patterns, as four Latins, one West Indian and four North Americans arose, when called forward by the Convention chairman, to testify to their dedication to their new tasks.
“As the Convention neared its close, we became aware that every heart seemed intangibly bound to Haifa; localism appeared gone forever. We parted knowing that even now theirs was a natural assimilation of their new relationship to the World Center, presaging the final flowering of yet another Mighty Pillar of the Universal House of Justice.”
“April 24th was the close of the Convention,” Miss Binda reported, “and that night was dedicated to the Guardian. Each delegate received as a memento a little transparent envelope filled by Mrs. Amelia Collins with fragrant flowers which had lain in the Holy Shrine. Mrs. Baker explained that Mrs. Collins was a guest of Shoghi Effendi, the Guardian, and that, at his request, she had recently brought back with her two locks of the blessed hair of Bahá’u’lláh, his gift to the new National Spiritual Assemblies of Central and South America. So that we could more fully realize the wonderful sharing of the holy hair of Bahá’u’lláh, there were read to us a few lines of the Guardian’s recent statement:
“ ‘I cannot at this juncture overemphasize the sacredness of that Holy Dust embosomed in the heart of the vineyard of God.’
“Arrangements were made for all the Bahá’ís present to view the lock of hair sent by the Guardian. It had been laid upon a bit of lace sent by Mrs. Viva Lismore of Cuba, and enshrined in a silver frame provided by Mrs. Cora Oliver of Panama. The fragrant setting of flowers was arranged by Miss Mabel Sneider of the Canal Zone. The friends were deeply impressed as they silently viewed a bit of the actual physical Being of Bahá’u’lláh, a thing which has never before been possible in the history of God’s Holy Prophets.”
“In my opinion, the highlights of the Convention (Panama, April 22-24, 1951) were two-fold,” wrote Matthew Bullock, pioneer to Haiti: “first, the orderliness of the Convention, and second, the apparent spirituality of the delegates.
“The Convention was made up of delegates of several racial strains. Some were of Anglo-Saxon background, some Italian, some French, some Spanish, some Indian, some Negro; and some represented two or more of the above races combined. Some spoke English, some French, but the great majority of them spoke only Spanish. However, notwithstanding the great difference in language and racial strains, the business of the Convention was transacted in peace and harmony, with no dissension or trouble of any sort. Love prevailed.
“Some of the delegates were adults of middle age, but most of them were what one would call young adults. However, in spite of this age difference, there seemed to be perfect understanding among them. Three of the persons elected to the new National Spiritual Assembly were not even delegates to the Convention, but were present as visitors or functionaries.
“The reason for the orderliness and harmony of the Convention was, it seemed to me, the spirituality of the delegates. I have said that most of the delegates were young adults. But these were unusual young people; they were young people of deep spirituality. When they spoke, one knew that they were indeed earnest, and when they prayed, deep emotion was generated in those who heard them. It has been a long time since I participated in a Bahá’í meeting of any kind, where there seemed to me to be such consecration and dedication to the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh.”
The National Spiritual Assembly[edit]
“The entire Convention in Panama in 1951, revolves around one central event of immeasurable magnitude, and can be described only in the light of this: the
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election of the first National Spiritual Assembly of the
Bahá’ís of Central America, Mexico and the Antilles,”
declared Artemus Lamb, pioneer to Costa Rica and
delegate from that country to the Convention.
“To the 25 delegates from Panama, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Cuba, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico and Jamaica,” he continued, “as well as to the visitors from the United States who attended, and most especially to those, who had the priceless privilege of forming part of this new administrative unit of the New World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, it was made strikingly evident that the formation of a new National Bahá’í Spiritual Assembly is a Divine Creation, the birth of a new organism, an event in which the believers, however great may be their capacity, are only instruments used by Bahá’u’lláh to fulfill His preordained purpose. Their lives, even their wills, are seized by Him at this moment, and for several glorious and awe-inspiring days personalities are effaced, even names disappear, and all become indissoluble parts of one great whole, each finding indescribable delight and joy in this supreme experience. One is afforded an all too brief glimpse of the ineffable joy that is in store for the human race, when the true unity becomes established in the world, which God has sent Bahá’u’lláh to bring about.
“Before the election, one wondered where nine believers could be found, capable of the responsibility of being members of the new National Spiritual Assembly; how could the members possibly get together to meet during the coming year? Where were the financial resources going to come from? How could this vast territory, composed of so many and so diverse peoples, possibly be organized into a functioning unit of the Bahá’í World Community? Humanly, the task was impossible, but ‘with God all is possible.’ After the election was over, it all seemed so simple that one wondered why one had not thought in the first place of the people elected to the new Assembly, for there were nine people ready, willing and fit to serve.
“As the new Assembly convened throughout the rest of the days of the Convention and Teaching Congress, which followed, difficulties vanished in thin air as mist before the sun and all appeared both possible and practical. By departure time, officers had been elected the National Office established in Panama, a budget set up, national committees appointed and their duties outlined and general plans approved, provision had been made for five meetings of the National Spiritual Assembly in different parts of the territory during the year, and all essential details worked out for the functioning of the machinery of this newly born unit of Bahá’u’lláh’s World Order. It must be said, however, that an indispensable factor was the wise, loving and patient guidance and counsel of Horace Holley and Dorothy Baker, secretary and vice-chairman respectively of the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States. As they themselves expressed it: ‘Our beloved Guardian has been teaching us in the United States Bahá’í Administration for the past 25 years. Our purpose now is to pass on whatever we have learned in order to save him and you the necessity of having to go all through the same process again.’ ”
Light Over Africa[edit]
Geyserville Bahá’í School Program[edit]
A platform banked with palms, grasses and flowers, a map of the “Dark Continent,” a display of books about Africa, a movie screen—this was the setting for the Africa Program in the Hall of Geyserville School, July 25, 1951.
The Chairman, Norman Gauerke, opened the program with the Prayer for All Nations. Then with the reading of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s words, “The hearts of the Africans are a blank scroll ...” the program began to unfold in a swift and moving tempo.
For color and a glimpse of the rich diversity of the land, Dr. Nichols reviewed the book “Africa Drums” by Richard St. Barbe Baker; a short film, “Mamprusi Village,” secured from the British Information Service, was shown; Mrs. Mori made a brief statement about peoples, economic and social conditions and history of the Dark Continent; and a recording of African music, “Africa Adventure,” was played.
A Tablet written by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to Fanny Knobloch (read by Mr. Burke); excerpts from the Guardian’s messages to the British National Convention, 1950 and to the NSA of the United States, July 5, 1950; and excerpts from his cables of January 17, 1951 to the U.S. and of June 22, 1951 to the British NSA (read by Mrs. Aldridge) led to the opening of the map of the Dark Continent to show “Light Over Africa,” a map highlighting the goal countries and the NSA’s cooperating in this first international teaching program.
There was brief mention of the Geyserville pioneers already committed to the Africa work: Mrs. Lisota told of Isobel Locke Sabri and Mrs. Seto told of Jessie Vanderford. Then a progress report by Mrs. Mari brought up to date activities since the beginning of the project.
The meeting closed with a prayer for teaching.
Five of that group at Geyserville have now written to the U.S. Africa Teaching Committee stating their desire to pioneer or settle in Africa. This is one more expression of that heightened awareness of the urgency of all our tasks emphasized in the Guardian’s words—“Time is running short....”
Bahá’í Youth Camp[edit]
Youth Camp at Green Acre was a most exciting adventure for the 50 youth and young adults who attended. Most important of all, the program achieved a spirit of cooperation, enthusiasm, and genuine happiness which prevailed throughout the two-week period of June 16 to 30. The joy of working, studying, and playing together was so great that true group consciousness was developed—a real Bahá’í youth community.
Our community was international, inter-racial, and inter-religious. Kimani Waiyaki came from Kenya Colony, Africa. Billy Chen, Katherine Hsia, and Hilda Yen Male were from China, Mary Jane Mikuriya a Japanese-American. Marie Hazard, a Quaker, Schach van Steenberg and Diane Grunert, Catholics. There were several of Jewish and several of Persian extraction. We were a truly international family, and the spirit of kinship was strong and warm.
[Page 11]
Each morning, after devotions, arranged and presented entirely by the youth, council meeting was held;
at that time any and all matters were brought forth
for consultation. Immediately thereafter the work groups
went into action. A team of boys and girls worked
with brush-hooks and axes to clear away small trees
and underbrush in front of the inn. The tractor team
cut and raked the tall, over-grown grass of the large
grounds. The tree crew removed dead branches and
vastly improved the trees around the inn. A team of
girls was organized into a painting squad which decorated in bright colors the porch and cottage furniture.
Several who liked to sew made new drapes for the
cottages. Other jobs accomplished included window
washing, repairing chairs, hanging screens, repairing
and installing new screens, replacing broken panes,
building a ball diamond, repairing and painting the boat,
etc., etc. The homely chores of group housekeeping included KP after each meal, sweeping and dusting the
halls and parlors of the inn, and tidying the rooms.
After lunch, at 1:30, two study classes were held. One of these delved into a study of the Compilation on the Covenant and Administration. The other took up certain of the fundamentals of the Bahá’í Faith, such as the history, living the life, and the principles. The last two days were used as a workshop in public speaking, and nine of the youth gave excellent talks on various aspects of the Faith.
From 3 p.m. each day until dinner there were free hours for swimming, hiking, resting, writing letters, and deepening friendships. At beautiful Ogunquit Beach many afternoons were spent in bathing and sunning.
After dinner there were frequent baseball games, followed by rich and varied evening programs. Kimani Waiyaki told us about the life, religion, culture, and politics of Kenya Colony. Bill Wold explained the World Federalist Movement. Kenneth Christian gave a fine presentation of the Bahá’í Program for World Order. Hilda Yen Male and Mildred Mottahedeh told of international developments within the United Nations. Bill Sears entertained us with anecdotes of Bahá’í pioneering and had us “holding our sides” in mirth. Films were shown on various subjects. There was a dance Saturday night and cook-out at the beach another time. There was much more, of course.
A workshop in Administration, during which a practice Local Spiritual Assembly was elected, was an important feature. This LSA elected its officers and took up matters related to the running of the camp.
There was a special course in social relationships for youth, including five films on “Marriage for Moderns” and one on drinking. Interesting and helpful discussions developed from each of these films.
The spirit of service was prevalent throughout as we used our hands to serve Bahá’u’lláh. Here was more than lip service to the great Bahá’í ideals of unity, good-will, and cooperation. In active work projects important physical changes were created. In the study classes and fireside meetings knowledge of the Faith was increased. In hours of recreation and sports, fun and friendships were developed. Green Acre is more beautiful for the effort of the youth, for the love they have invested. But especially Green Acre has brought strong renewal of dedication to the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh.
Living the Bahá’í Life: Teaching[edit]
Be not grieved if thou performest it thyself alone. Let God be all-sufficient for thee. Commune intimately with His Spirit, and be thou of the thankful. Proclaim the Cause of thy Lord unto all who are in the heavens and on the earth. Should any man respond to thy call, lay bare before him the pearls of the wisdom of the Lord, thy God, which His Spirit had sent down unto thee, and be thou of them that truly believe. And should any one reject thine offer, turn thou away from him, and put thy trust and confidence in the Lord, thy God, the Lord of all worlds.
It is known and clear that today the unseen divine
assistance encompasseth those who deliver the Message.
And if the work of delivering the Message be neglected,
the assistance shall be entirely cut off, for it is impossible that the friends of God could receive assistance
unless they be engaged in delivering the Message. Under
all conditions the Message must be delivered, but with
wisdom. If it be not possible openly, it must be done
quietly. The friends should be engaged in educating the
souls and should become instruments in aiding the world
of humanity to acquire spiritual joy and fragrance. For
example: If every one of the friends (believers) were
to establish relations of friendship and right dealings
with one of the negligent souls, associate and live with
him with perfect kindlineas, and meanwhile through good
conduct and moral behavior lead him to divine instruction, to heavenly advice and teachings, surely he would
gradually arouse that negligent person and would change
his ignorance into knowledge.
Souls are liable to estrangement. Such methods should be adopted that the estrangement should be first removed, then the Word will have effect.
In short, O ye believers of God! Endeavor ye; so
that ye may take hold of every means in the promulgation of the religion of God and the diffusion of the fragrances of God.
In Memoriam[edit]
Death proffereth 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.
- Dr. Thomas Irish, Kansas City, Mo. July 8, 1951
- Mrs. Emma K. Gelles, Miami, Fla. July 28, 1951
- Mr. Arthur J. White, Harrison, Ark. July 29, 1951
Marriages[edit]
Los Angeles, Calif., Miss Bella Sondhelm (non-Bahá’í) to Mr. George F. Dodge (date not reported)
Geneva, N. Y., Miss Nancy Gates to Mr. William R. Grammar, Jr. (non-Bahá’í) June 30, 1951
West Englewood, N.J., Mrs. Marion Clark to Mr. Walter Goodfellow, July 1, 1951
West Englewood, N.J., Miss June Kelsey to Mr. Jack W. Remignanti, June 3, 1951
San Francisco, Calif., Mrs. Carol Holcombe to Mr. Leo Noah (non-Bahá’í) July 29, 1951
Santa Monica, Calif., Miss Ruth L. Smith to Mr. Carrell L. Gilmore (non-Bahá’í) Aug. 4, 1951
“Be Guarded in Thy Speech”[edit]
Dear Friends:
Bahá’u’lláh has bestowed upon us such vast treasures that we well stand in awe. At times the very quantity of truth at our fingertips seems overwhelming. But as we season in faith and understanding, we can more easily see the various shafts of light which Bahá’u’lláh has focused upon the problems and aspirations of mankind.
Human speech and its constructive uses form one shaft of light directed at us. “Be fair in thy judgment and guarded in thy speech,” Bahá’u’lláh wrote to His youngest son, the Purest Branch. “Be an ornament to the countenance of truth, a crown to the brow of fidelity ...”
Well known, of course, is the admonition from the Hidden Words which is carved in the stone of the Temple: “Breathe not the sins of others so long as thou art thyself a sinner.” And we are familiar with the warnings against back-biting. “... backbiting quencheth the light of the heart, and extinguisheth the life of the soul.” But have we sufficiently explored the wealth of references to human speech?
The importance of speech in human relations—“A kindly tongue is the lodestone of the hearts of men: It is the bread of the spirit ...” “ ... Should anyone among you be incapable of grasping a certain truth, or be striving to comprehend it, show forth, when conversing with him, a spirit of extreme kindliness and goodwill. Help him to see and recognize the truth, without esteeming yourself to be, in the least, superior to him, or to be possessed of greater endowments.”
Restraint in speech —“He ... must wash away from the tablet of his heart every trace of pride and vainglory ... observe silence and refrain from idle talk. For the tongue is a smoldering fire, and excess of speech a deadly poison.” “Take heed, O people, lest ye be of them that give good counsel to others but forget to follow it themselves. The words of such as these, and beyond the words the realities of all things, and beyond these realities the angels that are nigh unto God, bring against them the accusation of falsehood.”
The foundation of character —“Beautify your tongues, O people, with truthfulness, and adorn your souls with the ornament of honesty.” “Let truthfulness and courtesy be your adorning,” “Truthfulness is the foundation of all the virtues of the world of humanity.”
Consultation, the basis of just dealings—“With the utmost friendliness and in a spirit of perfect fellowship take ye counsel together ...” “Gather ye together, and for the sake of God resolve to root out whatever is the source of contention amongst you.” “... hold fast to the rope of Consultation ... for if matters be arranged otherwise, it will lead to discord and tumult.” “The shining spark of truth cometh forth only after the clash of differing opinions.”
As we prepare ourselves spiritually for the strenuous teaching efforts ahead, let us meditate on this important subject of human speech. References in the teachings are many. As our understanding grows, our spiritual effectiveness will increase.
Publishing Announcement[edit]
The Promised Day Is Come is available again, through the Bahá’í Publishing Committee. Owing to tremendous increases in printing and production costs, since the last printing, the price is now $1.50 per copy.
Two Shall Appear, a religious-historical drama in five acts, by Mrs. Olivia Kelsey, depicts in brief form the background and some of the heroic events in the history of the Faith. 75c per copy, through the Bahá’í Publishing Committee, 110 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Ill.
The Child’s Way[edit]
The oneness of humanity has fewer applications more essential than the mutuality of parent and child.
When adults and children are separate, without inner bonds of awareness, the oneness of mankind is stricken a fearful blow. All unities proceed when this unity prevails.
Our Child Education Committee issues a bulletin entitled “The Child’s Way,” six copies a year, at subscription rate of $1.00.
The National Spiritual Assembly highly endorses this magazine, which provides material for parent, teacher and child. Bahá’í parents (perhaps every adult Bahá’í) are urged to obtain copies and become thoroughly familiar with their contents.
Correspondence and subscriptions are to go to the Editor, Mrs. Amy B. Dwelly, 9400 Euclid Ave. Suite 20, Cleveland 6, Ohio.
Reprinting of “Communion with God” in Braille[edit]
To meet increasing needs of blind Bahá’ís and inquirers, a new reprinting of “Communion with God” in Braille has been completed. Due to the increased cost of reprinting, the price is now $.65 per copy. These pamphlets are bound in pajco covers and make unusually attractive gifts. They may be obtained, while they last, from
616 North Oxford Avenue
Los Angeles 4, Calif.
Please send remittance with order.
BAHA’I NEWS is published by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States. Copies are sent without charge to Bahá’ís throughout the United States, and to Bahá’í administrative bodies in other lands. Its purpose is to keep members of the Faith informed of international, national and local Bahá’í developments, and serve as an organ for the distribution of messages written by the Guardian of the Faith, the International Bahá’í Council, and the general announcements prepared by the American National Spiritual Assembly.
Reports, plans, news items and photographs of general interest are requested from national committees and local assemblies of the United States as well as from national assemblies of other lands.
BAHA’I NEWS is edited by an annually appointed Editorial Committee. The Committee for 1951-52: Miss Garreta Busey, Managing Editor, Mr. Wm. Kenneth Christian, Miss Mae Graves, Mrs. Doris Holley, Mr. Horace Holley, Chairman, Miss Flora Emily Hottes, Mrs. Eleanor Hutchens, Mrs. Ruth Jones. EDITORIAL OFFICE: 503 West Elm St., Urbana, Illinois, U.S.A.
