Bahá’í News/Issue 250/Text
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| BAHÁ’Í NEWS |
| Bahá’ís of the United States |
| NO. 250 | BAHÁ’Í YEAR 108 | DECEMBER, 1951 |
Messages from the Guardian[edit]
The Guardian Cables Message for State Conventions[edit]
This year, for the first time, the Guardian has sent a cabled message addressed directly to the State Conventions and intended for all the Bahá’ís present at these gatherings. This message will be distributed to the State Conventions for presentation by the Officers. It will not be made available before December 2.
There is no doubt a great significance in the Guardian’s use of these State meetings as a means of making direct contact with the body of American Bahá’ís at this time.
The Guardian’s message awaits you and will be delivered to you when you attend your State Convention on December 2.
The Guardian on Giving[edit]
The following passage is cited from a letter written by the Guardian through his secretary to Mrs. Ethel Furbush on December 21, 1931:—
As to the idea of “giving what one can afford,” this does by no means put a limit or even exclude the possibility of self-sacrifice. There can be no limit to one’s contributions to the national fund. The more one can give the better it is, especially when such offerings necessitate the sacrifice of other wants and desires on the part of the donor. The harder the sacrifice the more meritorious will it be of course in the eye of God. For after all it is not so much the quantity of one’s offerings that matters, but rather the measure of deprivation that such offerings entail.”
Preparations for the casting of the giant reinforced concrete star on the roof of the Shrine of the Báb. On this foundation will rest the weight of the entire superstructure.
| July, 1951 | —Shoghi Effendi |
Markers preparing the steel framework of the reinforced concrete foundation for the superstructure of the Báb’s Shrine. At the right can be seen a corner of the stone parapet of the arcade.
| July, 1951 | —Shoghi Effendi |
“As the Believers Turn Towards the Holy Shrine”[edit]
The Bahá’ís of Champaign and Urbana, Illinois, received a letter from the Guardian dated August 5, 1951 containing a passage so beautiful that it is shared with the friends.
“He feels the drawing of the hearts together, as the believers turn towards the Holy Shrine, will produce a greater love and unity amongst the friends, and attract the blessings of Bahá’u’lláh.”
“Mighty Supplementary Task”[edit]
Rejoice departure first pioneer (to) Africa, urge acceleration historic process now set (in) motion. Time short, tasks ahead manifold, pressing, momentous. Praying ardently increasing response befitting discharge (of) mighty supplementary task shouldered (by) valorous community.
Haifa, Israel Cablegram dated October 19, 1951
Response to the Resolve Plan[edit]
The National Assembly shares with the friends, the status of our united efforts to carry our many heavy financial responsibilities during this sad and serious year after the 100th Anniversary of the Martyrdom of the Glorious Báb. We all felt this would be a year of great testing and sacrifice—just as our spiritual forebears of one hundred years ago, had their year of greatest persecution. They achieved glorious success—and no doubt we will also.
This critical year is now half spent. The budget of our important Resolve Fund of $275,000, (which is to finance our collective responsibility for Shrine Construction work—and Temple Landscaping), called for contributions during this six month period ending October 31, 1951 of $137,500.00. Actual receipts from Resolves, and Special contributions for the Shrine, amounted to $94,000 leaving a deficit in this Fund of $43,400.
The work on the Shrine, nevertheless has gone forward, and payments which we have made totaled $115,500. Word has been received from Mr. Ugo Giachery in Rome that on October 30th the balance of the carved marble, iron window frames, steel, wire, and lumber, needed to finish the Octagon of the Shrine were shipped from Italy to Haifa. We have met all payments in Italy, when they became due;—but to do so, we had to borrow heavily from the Temple Interior Construction Fund. In fact, the Shrine account is indebted to the Temple Fund in the amount of $41,000.
The response to the Resolve Plan itself has not been good. 967 friends have sent in resolves, with a total value of $120,000.00 or 44% of the total needed. When it is recalled more than 2500 friends made resolves for the Temple Interior work, it is sincerely hoped there will be an immediate nationwide response to our needs now for the Shrine of the Báb, and Temple Landscaping. If any of the friends have mislaid his or her Resolve form, or wish additional forms, they can be secured by dropping a note to the National Treasurer.
The record of our three Funds, as of October 31, 1951, is as follows:
as of October 31, 1951.
Cash on hand April 30, 1951 | $ 3,256.21 |
Contributions May 1 to Oct. 31, 1951 | 94,099.41 |
Total Cash | 97,355.62 |
Payments made to Haifa and Italy | 115,500.00 |
Deficit | 18,144.38 |
Cash on hand Oct. 31, 1951 | 22,855.62* |
* Amount owed Temple Interior Fund—$41,000.00
as of October 31, 1951.
Total Estimated Construction Costs | $892,000.00 |
Amounts paid to October 31, 1951 | 808,404.00 |
Balance to be paid | 83,596.00 |
Cash and Assets on hand |
Cash | $15,488. |
U.S. Treasury Notes | 30,000. |
Loans to Shrine Fund | 41,000. |
Total Cash and Assets | 86,488.00 |
Amount over Goal | 2,892.00 |
as of October 31, 1951.
Cash on hand April 30, 1951 | $12,328.35 |
Receipts May 1 to Oct. 31, 1951 | 82,784.47 |
Total Cash | 95,112.82 |
Payments made May 1 to Oct. 31, 1951 | 97,862.82 |
Deficit | 2,750.00 |
We have paid $1,213.33 for technical work on the Temple Landscaping; but have been able to set aside no funds from Resolve payments, because of the urgent need for all Resolve payments to meet our Shrine of the Báb obligations.
Report to the Friends[edit]
Beloved Friends:
In order to establish a stronger bond of union with the believers, the National Spiritual Assembly has voted to publish in Bahá’í News a summary of its successive meetings.
As background information for the first of these summaries, the manner of preparing the correspondence for consultation is explained. The correspondence is briefly listed for all members and for the Guardian in a weekly report which assigns a consecutive number to each item calling for action. The letters and reports received during the week are then classified by subject or department: for example, letters from local Assemblies, letters from individual believers, from service committees, from consolidation and proclamation committees, etc., and each set of letters is mailed to a designated member. The members study the material received and note the salient facts.
Each numbered item is then presented at the meeting by the members together with his or her analysis. The matter is then opened for general discussion and Assembly action duly taken.
The actions are dictated to a wire recorder, with analysis and comment as needed to complete the record, and the Minutes are transcribed from this oral recording.
Now turning to the Minutes of the meeting held October 12, 13 and 14, they show that 98 different votes were passed, making a total of 825 votes taken since the Convention.
In addition to the recording of correspondence, reports and other material submitted by mail, the Minutes also contain annexes which summarize conferences held during the meeting, special documents placed on record, etc. All cables received from the Guardian are recorded in the body of the Minutes, and copies of his letters are attached to the Minutes as preserved in the national administrative headquarters from year to year.
The October Minutes recorded receipt of the Guardian’s cable of September 24 concerning the agreement adopted in principle to purchase an area of land on Mount Carmel, and the cable concerning Philip G. Sprague, as the principal messages from Haifa.
The Treasurer’s report indicated that the friends had responded nobly to the general letter sent out in September, but by September 30 only 812 believers had sent in their resolves. The National Fund is still in need of determined and widespread support throughout the year. Consultation on our collective obligations for Shrine, Temple Landscape Plan and the regular obligations of the National Fund was prolonged. An individual
[Page 3]
Bahá’í can ignore his personal responsibility in a
collective financial obligation, but the National Assembly cannot. It is legally as well as morally bound.
A number of committee appointments were made, as some members previously appointed could not serve and some committees found they needed strengthening.
A special action taken in October was to provide for retirement of Mr. and Mrs. Wood from their years of devoted service to the Publishing Committee.
As Manager, Mrs. Wood has developed the publishing work over a long period, and overcome the difficulties encountered through the depression and war eras. The office and stock were transferred by her from New York to Wilmette eleven years ago. Mr. Wood concentrated on promotion of World Order Magazine and on plan for increasing the distribution of the books and pamphlets.
A joint conference was held with the National Reference Library Committee to adopt a statement of functions and aims. This new service will be reported to the friends from time to time in Bahá’í News.
Vigorous action was taken in order to enable the Africa Teaching Committee to send Mrs. Ethel Stephens, first American pioneer for Africa, to London enroute to the Gold Coast. The Assembly met with Mr. William Foster to discuss final arrangements for his pioneer mission in Liberia.
A number of communications were presented from Latin America, as the Assembly will continue to advise and assist the two new National Assemblies until the end of the Second Seven Year Plan in 1953. Plans were made for a member to meet with these Assemblies during November, in Panama and Lima, Peru.
Area National and Regional Teaching Committees bring up many matters at each meeting. Here one feels the pulse of our own American pioneering, the stimulation and development of groups and small communities across the continent and in Hawaii. Close contact is maintained with this great field through the bulletins which these committees issue and share with our members, and through their reports and recommendations.
The Assembly recorded its upholding of the principle that Bahá’í mailing lists should not be used for any business enterprise.
A very interesting experience at this meeting was the opportunity to hear the recordings of the radio feature “Words for the World” sponsored by the National Projects Committee.
The National Projects Committee’s compilation on “Drama of Salvation” was presented in nearly completed form, and steps were taken to have it brought out as soon as possible as the institute for the current year.
When all the School Committees have reported on their 1951 season, the Assembly will publish in Bahá’í News a brief summary of School operations.
The Louhelen School Committee was authorized to conduct a Winter School Session.
A letter was received from Miss Marion Jack, Sofia, Bulgaria, and reported her good health and efforts to serve.
The members heard glowing reports of the European Teaching Conference and school, held in Netherlands this year, and acted to write letters of appreciation to Bahá’ís and non-Bahá’ís who contributed to its success.
A certified copy of the Declaration of Trust has been sent to the Bahá’ís of Lisbon to assist them to receive the necessary permit to conduct meetings.
Plans were outlined for the holding of a Memorial Meeting in honor of Louis G. Gregory in the House of Worship Saturday evening, November 24.
The Assembly approved an Introduction to be included in the new edition of Gleanings now on the press.
A very interesting conference was held with Mrs. Margot Worley, Chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly of South America. She shared with our members two letters from the Guardian encouraging the Latin American believers. Subjects discussed in this conference included the Fund, how votes are taken by mail, the principle of the Resolve Plan.
The friends are reminded that meetings of the National Spiritual Assembly do not deal with matters pertaining to the various Bahá’í trusteeships. Such matters are recorded in the Minutes of the Trustees.
The Temple Trustees have devoted much time this year to the question of landscaping plans. Mr. Hilbert Dahl has been engaged as landscape architect after considering designs and estimates from a number of architects. His design has been approved by the Guardian. Actual work will begin on the grounds early in 1952, with the George A. Fuller Company continuing as general contractors.
At their October meeting the Trustees approved a type of curtain for the windows and a valance treatment for the alcoves.
A special report on the landscape design will be made to the friends through Bahá’í News at an early date.
Since the October meeting could not complete action on the agenda, an extra meeting was called for November 3 and 4.
Louhelen Winter School[edit]
The Louhelen Bahá’í School at Davison, Michigan, will be open from December 23 to 25 for a 3 day conference on “The Effective Study of the Bahá’í Writings” to be followed by a 7 day session from December 26 to January 1. This session will consist of two courses: “Dramatic Episodes of the Heroic Age” and “Tomorrow and Tomorrow”. Also, “Prescription for Living” will be the topic for group discussion and research.
For additional information or reservations write to: Registrar, Louhelen Bahá’í School, 320 S. State Road, Davison, Michigan. Reservations should be in early as accommodations are limited at the school during the winter.
Interesting Reading[edit]
Dr. Stanwood Cobb has just published another interesting book, Tomorrow and Tomorrow. We quote from the dust jacket: “... gives a vivid picture of what lies immediately ahead in the way of world progress ... the focusing of world trends toward international peace and world federation, eventuating in the creation of a World civilization.” Order through Bahá’í Publishing Committee, 110 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois ($1.50 per copy).
Faith For Freedom has been reprinted. The same splendid text, in a new blue cover. Order through the Bahá’í Publishing Committee, 110 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois (10c per copy).
The Drama of Salvation[edit]
Announcing New Institute Book[edit]
The friends have awaited the promised Institute Conference Book based on the text of Shoghi Effendi’s “The Promised Day is Come.”
After careful analysis of the material and its vital bearing on current world events and the deeper spiritual issues of people at this time, the National Projects Committee has produced a work for institute study which has fundamental importance for all members of the American Bahá’í community.
Its title is challenging: The Drama of Salvation.
The contents are compiled from many Bahá’í works—the writings of Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá as well as those of Shoghi Effendi. The plan, in brief, is to present the Faith in terms of the destruction of the old order, the disintegration of personality and the passing of the former dispensations, and the social and individual salvation ordained in the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh.
Here is an instrument by which communities and groups, united in profound experience by the power of the Word, can rise to new heights of spiritual maturity and thereby acquire both vigor and insight for the supreme aim of Bahá’í life—the spread of the teachings and the confirmation of souls.
The Drama of Salvation has an introduction which explains the scope of the compilation and suggests the ways in which this new Institute Book can be effectively presented and studied in community gatherings.
The friends will recall the original aim of the Institute plan: that through the community conference type of study the Bahá’ís are to become imbued with the basic teachings and animated by the spirit of the Revelation, that each community and group may thereby prepare itself to meet the challenging opportunities which lie before us in the imminent future.
As soon as publishing date and price are determined, the Publishing Committee will send an announcement to each Assembly and Regional Teaching Committee. When that announcement comes, the National Assembly urges vigorous action to spread the information, so that communities and groups may equip themselves with copies, and plans for Institute study be adopted throughout the United States!
First Berlin Conference in Many Years[edit]
The first Bahá’í Conference (Summer School) in Berlin took place July 26-30, 1951 (14-18 Kalimat).
Two public talks were given by Dr. Hermann Grossmann. One was on the subject “The Bahá’í Teachings as the Foundation of the New World Order.” This was held Friday, July 27, 1951, at 6:30 p.m. in the Student House on Steinplatz, and was attended by 130 people. The subject was on a high level, spiritually and intellectually, and went well with the audience.
The second talk, Saturday evening July 28, 1951, at 6:30, on “The Bahá’í Foundation for a World Community” attracted 125 listeners and was held in America House on Nollendorfplatz. At the end of the talk about twelve persons asked questions which were answered by Dr. Grossmann, having to do with the most diverse topics and most of which concurred with the thoughts given in the talk. At the second lecture our speaker was handed a little bouquet of flowers by a lady who was unknown to us, with her expression of thanks for what he had given to her in both the talks. In personal conversations at the end of both talks many appreciative words were spoken. The great interest which the programs aroused is shown by the fact that over 40 cards were given in, with addresses of persons newly interested. In critical Berlin with its terrible experiences from the time of Hitler and its multitude of other decrees, this is especially noteworthy.
On Thursday, July 28, 1951, seven friends from outside Berlin took part in the Summer School which began that evening with two public talks attended by 19 persons. Dr. Grossmann reported on the work in West Germany and the completion of the Hazíratu’l-Quds (the Administrative Center). He spoke of the immeasurable value of the Message of Bahá’u’lláh if we accept it and absorb it. Everyone who entrusts himself to the spiritual guidance given him by the Teachings is often lead in secret ways. At the end the guests from outside Berlin reported on their experiences.
Friday, July 27, the guests gathered in the home of Frau Gross, the secretary, to go together to the talk at the Student House.
Saturday, July 28, the friends went to the second public meeting, at America House, after coffee at Frl. Lodemann’s.
Sunday, July 29, an outing was planned, which was favored by beautiful weather. In a closed room we had the opportunity to hear Dr. Grossmann’s exposition of the Covenant and its great bearing on the Faith. This meeting was the high point of our Summer School. Questions and answers were exchanged, at the meeting, and at the coffee table following, many opportunities arose for personal talks among the friends and thus the personal knowledge of the guests was increased. Dr. Grossmann often changed his place in order to be able to be with all.
Monday, July 30, in the evening a number of the Berlin Bahá’ís met again, at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Seibt, to hear the announced talk on “Proclamation and Consolidation of the Bahá’í Teachings in Berlin under the Special Conditions of Berlin as an Island.” As a second theme Dr. Grossmann seized on the word “Administration.” He explained the obligations to be fulfilled by the individual members of the Spiritual Assembly. Only a spirit of inner connection and a hearty working together on the part of the Assembly could forward the work of the whole Bahá’í Community. Only when the Community held together could it attract new members and increase its size. The chairman thanked Dr. Grossmann for his informative talks and for the sacrifices which he had made in time, money and strength, without which the Summer School could not have taken place. It was promised that the NSA would support us as a young Community.
In conclusion it can be said that our Bahá’í Conference (Summer School) of 1951 was a success and carries with it an obligation for the Berlin Community.
“The Gathering of Israel”[edit]
A Tablet of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá[edit]
You have asked Me a question with regard to the gathering of the children of Israel in Jerusalem, in accordance with prophecy.
Jerusalem, the Holy of Holies, is a revered Temple, a sublime name, for it is the City of God ... The gathering of Israel at Jerusalem means, therefore, and prophesies, that Israel as a whole is gathering beneath the banner of God and will enter the Kingdom of the Ancient of Days. For the celestial Jerusalem, which has as its center the Holy of Holies, is a City of the Kingdom, a Divine City. The East and West are but a small corner of that City.
Moreover, materially as well (as spiritually), the Israelites will all gather in the Holy Land. This is irrefutable prophecy, for the ignominy which Israel has suffered for well-nigh twenty-five hundred years will now be changed into eternal glory, and in the eyes of all, the Jewish people will become glorified to such an extent as to draw the jealousy of its enemies and the envy of its friends.
(According to information received by the National Assembly many years ago, this Tablet was revealed by the Master in the year 1897 to a Jewish community in the Orient).
Questions Children Ask[edit]
This month’s issue of The Child’s Way has an article on “Questions Children Ask” by Mrs. Dwelly, who has had many years’ experience with young children.
The children’s page features stories and poems written by the children themselves.
To subscribe to this bulletin for parents and children published by the Bahá’í Child Education Committee write to:
- Mrs. Amy Dwelly, Editor, 9400 Euclid Ave., Suite 20, Cleveland 6, Ohio.
Rates: $1.00 per year (6 issues) 20c per copy.
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.
- Mrs. Margaret Rozel, Kenosha, Wis. October 2, 1951
- Mrs. B. J. Brooks, Albany, New York January, 1950
- Mr. Edward Bornside, Providence, Rhode Island September 10, 1951
- Miss Emily Foster, Santa Cruz, Calif. October 1, 1951
- Mrs. Mary Talhelm, Portland, Oregon October 17, 1951
- Mr. Daniel Mason, Paterson, New Jersey date not reported
- Miss Ruth Nordstrom, Kirkland, Washington October 8, 1951
- Mr. James N. Makins, Santa Barbara, Calif. October 16, 1951
- Mr. Thomas Bisher, Omaha, Nebraska October 23, 1951
- Mrs. Caroline Simpson, Saylorsburg, Pa. October 8, 1951
Directory Additions and Changes[edit]
Local Spiritual Assemblies:
- Long Beach, Calif.
- Mrs. Grace L. Mantell, Sec’y.
- 441 E. 9th St.
- Memphis, Tenn.
- Miss Johanna Zimmerman, Sec’y.
- Box 5913
- Crosstown Station
- Dayton, Ohio
- Miss Jessica Perry, Sec’y.
- 1613 Home Ave.
- Fort Wayne, Ind.
- Mrs. JoAnne Menking, Sec’y.
- 1220 Spy Run Ave.
Regional Teaching Committees:
- Mass., Rhode Island, Vermont
- Mrs. Dorothy Anne Frey, Sec’y.
- 516 Front St.
- Chicopee, Mass.
- Ohio
- Mrs. Sally Ann McDermott, Sec’y.
- 12 N. 6th St.
- Newark, Ohio
Marriages[edit]
Los Angeles, Calif., Miss Dolores Lee to Mr. James L. Vaden September 29, 1951
Charleston, West Va., Miss Nora E. Grass to Mr. Carl Hamilton (non-Bahá’í) August 18, 1951
Washington, D. C., Miss Beverly Burke (non-Bahá’í) to Ensign Roderick E. Jensen, September 26, 1951
San Bernardino, Calif., Mrs, Evelyn Johnson to Mr. Chester Steele (date not reported)
Ridgewood, N. J ., Miss Virginia Cole to Mr. C. Stuart Galbriath, Jr. (non-Bahá’í) (date not reported.)
Denver, Colo., Mrs. Cora Rockwell to Mr. William Hudson September 14, 1951
Los Angeles, Calif., Miss Margaret Schneider to Mr. Joseph Whitehouse (non-Bahá’í) (date not reported)
Honolulu, Hawaii, Mrs. Edith Warren to Mr. Charles F. Loomis (non-Bahá’í) (date not reported)
New York, N. Y., Miss Mehrafagh Ettehadieh to Mr. Nejatolla F. Tavana October 4, 1951
Orlando, Fla., Miss Lois J. Keller to Mr. George White Porter (non-Bahá’í) (date not reported)
St. Louis, Mo., Miss Ruth L. Weber to Mr. Robert A. Barr October 27, 1951
Omaha, Nebr., Mrs. Beatrice Campbell to Mr. Casper Buss September 20, 1951
Dryden, Wash., Miss Phyllis R. Armstrong to Mr. Lawrence Kiehn (non-Bahá’í) June 14, 1951
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.
National Projects Committee[edit]
Announcement of New Institute[edit]
The fundamental thesis of the text is the Omnipotence of God, functioning through His Manifestations, in the lives and affairs of mankind.
When the Divine Manifestation makes His appearance, it is the most important single event in the era of which He is a part. For through Him the Word of God is “made flesh and walks among men.” The Revelation He brings defines the laws, standards and principles which, once they are proclaimed, are the only pattern of life for men henceforth. The Holy Spirit released by the new Manifestation flooding over the world permeates all elements of life and is the generating power which creates a “new race of men” and thereby a new society. All things which try to deny, to impede, or to repulse the realization of God’s Will in the world are destroyed and disappear. And gradually a new civilization is established as the direct result of the dominion in the world of the authority of the Manifestation.
In this age the World of God has again been “made flesh” in the persons of the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh. Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation opens the vista of a world civilization, the pattern of which He has delineated. We have witnessed in the hundred years since the inception of the Bahá’í Era, under the influence of the Holy Spirit, an unprecedented development of all the factors of life that are a part of the new world aborning, and we have witnessed, contrariwise, the unprecedented decline, dissolution and death of all men and agencies that have tried to disregard, or to obstruct, or to combat it. The Bahá’í World Community is in embryo the new world, and it and it alone is the channel of God’s Plan in this period of history.
This mighty theme of the effect of the Manifestation upon the world from the moment of His revelation, is developed in the Institute through the concepts of the Judgment of God and the Redemption proferred by God to men, individually and collectively.
The first part of the text is concerned with the summons of Bahá’u’lláh to mankind—to Kings, to Ecclesiastics, and to humanity in general—and with their response and the judgment effected by God. The historical evidence of this response and judgment is presented in the decline in royal authority, the waning power of the clergy, and the general breakdown of the structure of society, and the resultant disorder and chaos in human affairs.
Here is the picture of the revelation of God’s Will through Bahá’u’lláh, and what has happened to all facets of society that have ignored or tried to resist or to oppose the onward march of the Bahá’í Faith.
The second section of the book deals with the redemption of mankind. First, consideration is given to the salvation of individual man through his contact with the Holy Spirit, and his transformation into an active agent of the world program of Bahá’u’lláh, and thereby into a channel for the redemption of society. This social redemption is portrayed through a bird’s-eye view of the evolving World Order of Bahá’u’lláh. Attention is then given to the fact that the Bahá’í World Community is the integrating, constructive force in the world, building a new civilization, in contrast to all other components of society which are declining and disintegrating in the present hour, and which will continue their downward plunge with increasing momentum in the foreseeable future. This condition of social chaos will lead the nations of the world to federate as the only means of survival, and the “Lesser Peace” referred to by Bahá’u’lláh will begin. The theme of universal redemption is completed with mankind’s turn from the path of destruction to the task of erecting a new order; the Bahá’í World Community will come to the fore as the repository of God’s Program for World Order, and its pattern of world society will be accepted. Then shall the Bahá’í Commonwealth become the supreme authority of the world and the “Most Great Peace” be realized.
In the second part of the text then is traced the gradual efflorescence of the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, God’s Redemptive Scheme for mankind today.
Projects Committee: Winter Meetings[edit]
WINTER SERIES 1952—Public Meetings geared to Bahá’í and non-Bahá’í events.
- World Religion Day—January 20th
- National Brotherhood Week—February 18th—25th
- Naw-Rúz—March 21st—27th
The World Religion Day Kit is available through Public Relations for the first meeting. There will be radio scripts, talking scripts and outlines for talks available for the 2nd and 3rd meetings. It will be announced, by bulletins, at a later date when this material is ready, together with the theme for each meeting.
Living the Bahá’í Life:[edit]
Sacrifice and Service[edit]
O BEFRIENDED STRANGER!
The candle of thine heart is lighted by the hand of My power; quench it not with the contrary winds of self and passion. The healer of all thine ills is remembrance of Me, forget it not. Make My love thy treasure and cherish it even as thy very sight and life.
O SON OF DUST!
Blind thine eyes, that thou mayest behold My beauty; stop thine ears, that thou mayest harken unto the sweet melody of My voice; empty thyself of all learning, that thou mayest partake of My knowledge; and sanctify thyself from riches, that thou mayest obtain a lasting share from the ocean of My eternal wealth. Blind thine eyes, that is, to all save My beauty; stop thine ears to all save My word; empty thyself of all learning save the knowledge of Me; that with a clear vision, a pure heart and an attentive ear thou mayest enter the court of My holiness.
O MY SERVANT!
Free thyself from the fetters of this world, and loose thy soul from the prison of self. Seize thy chance, for it will come to thee no more.
Persian Hidden Words No. 40, Arabic, No. 41, Persián No. 34, 39, 11.
Second Bahá’í European Teaching Summer School Scheveningen, Holland[edit]
With keen logic and complete understanding of world conditions, Dr. Zeine summarized the state of insecurity and imminent catastrophe in which man is living today. He pointed out how all solutions since the Peace Conference held in The Hague in 1899 had failed, explaining the three illusions which are at the basis of present ills: “that political power brings security; that economic prosperity is conducive to happiness; that modern education makes us better human beings.” He then elaborated upon the idea that when the motivating power of every civilization (that great moral and ethical idea) becomes weakened or destroyed, civilization becomes like a lamp without a light—and humanity again reaches ‘this point of no return’ ”. In conclusion, he pointed out that this disease from which humanity is suffering today is a spiritual disease, requiring a spiritual remedy to be administered by the Divine Physician.
Arnold van Ogtrop, the second speaker for both public meetings, developed the subject of “The Social Principles” of the Faith in a most convincing manner—comparing mankind’s needs for a new universal order to the lobster who completely leaves its shell once or twice during its lifetime and then hides in the rocks until the new shell has been sufficiently formed. In explaining the principle of unity in diversity, he likened it to the intricate mechanism of a watch. Every part must be perfect—functioning together as a whole. “If not,” he added, “Then it will not give the time.”
This year for the first time, there were two public meetings held, instead of one as in former years. In both the Hague and Amsterdam, the meetings were conducted with a dignity and charm enhanced by the beauty of Holland’s flowers. Especially notable was the meeting at The Hague: attendance approximated 270! Invitations had numbered 1500! And this resulting from the efforts of only four believers who live there!
At this meeting on Tuesday evening, Dr. A. Bausani of Rome gave the talk on “The Spiritual Dynamics.” He graphically illustrated his theme that man alone cannot do anything by himself—by comparing him to “a point traveling throughout a painting on a bi-dimensional plane, which cannot understand the real meaning of the picture,” or have the true perspective that only the painter can have. He clearly showed that in order to achieve a force which can change human nature, both individually and socially, we must see with the eyes of God—and that the only way this can be done is through the Manifestation.
The celebration of the Feast of ‘Izzat was most memorable—being the first truly international Feast for many of us present. There was somehow a distinctly different atmosphere—no doubt due to the meeting of east and west and the confirming power of the Sacred Word spoken in so many tongues. Here voices in 16 different languages were raised in prayer for our beloved Guardian. Rose petals gathered from the Holy Shrines were given to each—thoughtfully sent by Mrs. Millie Collins. An explanation of the Tablet of Aḥmad was beautifully given by Dr. Zeine—all of which added to the solemnity and joy of an already heavenly Feast. Upon one word of suggestion that we, as European believers, take advantage of the glorious privilege of adding our share to the Shrine of the Báb, it was as though the quick and enthusiastic response had come from one heart. Immediately after the Feast, contributions poured in amounting to nearly $200.00.
Impossible is it to recount all the precious moments together—when it seemed hearts would burst from all the inspiration that continually poured in. One high point was the announcing of the first native family in Europe to pioneer—responsing to the Guardian’s call for expansion—severing home and business ties to establish the Faith in a new city.
Everything seemed to strengthen the bond of love that knitted together the believers from 19 different countries—even the two happy fellowship evenings—one on Wednesday evening and the other on Saturday. In one, the Luxembourg Community presented pictures of characteristic scenes in Luxembourg and gave an outline of the history and legendary stories of that beautiful little country. Still another evening, there were pictures on the three European Teaching Conferences and the Summer Schools in America, the Gardens on Mt. Carmel and the Temple in Wilmette—a magnificent work for the most part prepared and presented by George Clark.
Mention must be made of the fascinating and valuable work being done with children by Mrs. Tove Deleuran in Copenhagen. She told us, “Modern children have an insatiable craving for information about everything.... They sit like little gluttons and swallow everything that is being explained—demanding a continuous flowing top presentation without any interest in the effort it causes you. Therefore, put them questions about the historic, spiritual and social principles, and train them in explanations and answers...Play the role of a difficult contact—let the children try to convince you about the Bahá’í teachings. Play work shop. Then play that the children are members of a community who shall decide which of them shall go as delegates to the conference, and who in their estimation is best able to represent and bring home the atmosphere to the rest of the community who are not able to go. Then they understand why it is necessary to prepare themselves with prayers to remove the egotistic wish to be the appointed person.”
In an admirable presentation on “The Divine Art of Living,” given on Saturday morning, Elsa Steinmetz explained that “as an approach to the high moral standards to which Bahá’u’lláh has called us, we should consider first of all the divine gift of life itself,” and second those spiritual requisites for the new race of men, “men worthy of the Day of God.” In a most convincing manner, she stated that regardless of economic conditions or liberal attitudes existing in many countries today, “there is just one moral standard and that is the standard of right and wrong set by the Manifestation of God for today. There is no compromise.”
The discussion period following was lively indeed—especially when the question of smoking came up—bringing forth this classic answer: “The tendency today is to live ‘within the law’. It shows we have not
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come to that point of maturity to cease doing a thing
unless it is a law.”
“Books, books, and more books” was the plea of Dr. Ugo Giachery, reporting on the work of “Translations.” “Books are our tools in teaching,” he said explaining that although much progress has already been made during the past five years, this work of translating the Bahá’í Writings must go speedily forward in each of the ten languages necessary for the work in the ten goal countries in Western Europe.
“Building the Bahá’í Community”, title of a new book published by the European Teaching Committee especially for the 1951 Summer School, was the course given by Miss Edna True. This invaluable book—unique in its preparation—names first all the Bahá’í Laws and Institutions on which the Administrative Order is based. In dealing with the essential basic features of the Bahá’í Community (the Local Spiritual Assemblies, Consultation, the Nineteen Day Feasts, and the Local Bahá’í Fund) a sharp distinction is made between that which is administrative or divine in nature and therefore cannot be changed—and that which is based on procedure which may be changed. “Learning to live and function in a Bahá’í Community is a new and vital experience” and this book is designed to make that experience yield glorious fruit.
We came together on Sunday evening for the last time to discuss “Goals Ahead,” an evening given over to the elected representatives from each of the Goal Coimtries. They seemed fairly bursting with enthusiasm and eagerness to return to their respective countries in order to begin at once their glorious and challenging tasks—and to share with the friends at home their new-found courage and all the inspiration and knowledge of these days together. All were delighted with the plans of beginning the Regional National cooperation and extension within their own land. Delegates from two different countries set forth their goals ahead: three new assemblies each by 1953! Many were the expressions of gratitude for all the bounties they had received, to our dear chairman, Miss Edna True, to the European Teaching Committee, the American Community, to our hosts, the Dutch friends—but above all were the countless expressions of deep humble gratitude to our beloved Guardian and the message which has awakened all hearts to action.
Australia, New Zealand and the Southern Islands[edit]
New Zealand: The advent of a Newsletter, the New Zealand Pioneer Bahá’ís Monthly Newsheet, marks a new epoch in Regional Teaching Committee activity, it being the first of its kind to appear in this part of the Bahá’í world.
The formation of a new group at Birkenhead, brings the number of Groups in New Zealand to four, with two Assemblies—Auckland and Devonport.
Tasmania: In this little far-away heart-shaped Island, a small band of gallant workers maintain regular personal contact with the goal-towns of Burnie, Devonport, Scottsdale, New Norfolk and Glenorchy.
Suva, Fiji: In a miraculous manner there has come into being in Suva a Bahá’í Group consisting of seven adults and three youth members. The recent visit of Mrs. G. Blum of New Zealand, delighted the hearts of these friends, and was an impetus to their activities. They are making an all-out effort to establish an Assembly by 21st April, 1952.
Australia: Miss Meg Degotardi of Sydney, recently visited Perth, Western Australia, and Adelaide, South Australia, where she spoke at several public meetings, and to various organizations.
Mr. Stanley Bolton, Senior, has undertaken a teaching tour which already has taken him to Queensland and many centres in New South Wales. He shortly leaves for the States of Victoria and South Australia, where he will contact Bahá’í Centres and will show films of the Bahá’í Gardens at Haifa at a number of public meetings. The showing of these wonderful films is having a profound effect on Bahá’ís and non-Bahá’ís alike.
Ten Bahá’ís recently made a first “spiritual assault” on Newcastle, one of the goal towns in New South Wales. Good newspaper publicity, two public meetings, personal contacts plus the spiritual dynamic of prayerful preparation made an impact which could not be ignored.
An outstanding event in the history of the Faith “down under” took place when, at the U.N. Regional N.G.O. Conference held in Indonesia, July 29th to August 3rd, the Bahá’ís of Australia and New Zealand were represented by a delegate, Mr. Stanley P. Bolton, Junior.
Canada[edit]
Banff Conference
The Banff Conference, held at Holliday House during the last week of August, has once again crowned itself with glory. There were over thirty fortunate enough to be able to attend, over thirty who returned to their homes brimming with joy and inspiration. Mrs. Helen Bishop, of Portland, presented a masterly course on “The Book of Certitude,” Mr. Bob Donnelly, of Regina, gave some very enlightening information of pioneering, substantiated by carefully prepared maps and diagrams. The children (who, it was reported, were exceptionally well-behaved little people) presented “A Child Shall Lead Them,” under the guidance of Lulu Barr, of Regina. The Calgary believers were responsible for the daily devotions, and several plays, written by Alan Fraser, of West Vancouver, were produced in an impromptu manner, to the apparent delight of the onlookers.
The public meeting, held on the 31st of August, at which Helen Bishop was the speaker, attracted a number of local residents, one of whom asked the Bahá’ís to hold a monthly fireside at his home.
Central America[edit]
Mrs. Valerie Nichols, sister of Artemus Lamb, who has been pioneering in Portugal for the past four years, stopped at Cristobal, Canal Zone, en route to California. She was met at the boat by Mrs. Cora Oliver and Miss Mabel Sneider, Bahá’ís from the Canal Zone, and later was able to meet some of the Bahá’ís from Colon and Panama City. She attended the Sunday public meeting in Panama City, and after the regular talk, spoke to the visitors and Bahá’ís of developments of the Faith in Portugal, Spain and England. Mrs. Nichols and her husband are planning to return to Central America within a few months to establish themselves in San José, Costa Rica.
Mr. and Mrs. John Ullman, Bahá’ís from Germany
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were expected to arrive at Cristobal, Canal Zone,
aboard the S/S Tritone on November 3, Mr. Ullmann
became a Bahá’í in Sao Paolo, Brazil, and served the
Faith there until he became ill and was forced to
return to Germany for treatment. He has been advised that the climate of Central America will be
beneficial to his complete recovery, and therefore will
established himself in either Costa Rica or Guatemala.
Local Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Cairo, Egypt, 1951. For the first time women have been elected to Local Assemblies in Moslem countries.
Egypt[edit]
The Egyptian friends have been a “hall-way house” for a good many of those who are on their way to pioneer in other parts of Africa. Recently Mr. Ted Cardell, a pioneer from England to Nairobi, Kenya, stopped for two nights with the Bahá’ís in Cairo and Khartum.
After preliminary measures had been taken for the acquisition of a piece of land for a Bahá’í cemetery at Alexandria, the municipal authorities of that city wrote to the LSA that it regretted having to stop all such measures. They also stated in their letter that the Municipality was only awaiting the termination of the formalities of acquiring a new piece of land already allotted by the Government, at Mamura, to which all present cemeteries will be transferred, and in which a part of the land will be set aside for a Bahá’í cemetery. Meanwhile the Assembly will approach the Government for a solution of the problem of burials before the project is initiated.
Recent news from Addis-Abeba, Ethiopia, show good progress in the teaching work. Important personalities are investigating the Cause, and have asked for Bahá’í literature. The Bahá’í have furnished a new meeting place where gatherings are regularly held.
Contributions by Egyptian Bahá’ís for the Holy Shrine have exceeded 1,000 pounds, but unfortunately, owing to money restrictions, they are unable to send these contributions.
German Bahá’í Youth[edit]
The September Bahá’í Jugendbrief, or Youth Bulletin, of Germany, a most attractive little magazine, brings news of the unforgettable Youth Week held from August 18 to 25 near Heidelberg. At Dilsberg, where a youth hostel has been built onto the castled ruin above the Rhine, 70 Bahá’í youth from various parts of Germany, England, Switzerland and even Persia, met for happy association and a most profitable study of Rúḥíyyih Khanum’s Prescription for Living, which all felt was intimately related to the problem of living the Bahá’í life, especially for the younger people. Free time was spent in hiking through the lovely environment, in enjoying evenings at hilarious fun, and in making some visits to the Amerikahaus in Heidelberg, where cultural films were shown, including colored views of the Haifa gardens. Letters of German youth visiting New York, Colombia, and Australia, give a vivid impression of the vital closeness of our worldwide family.
First Iberian Conference[edit]
To discuss Spain and Portugal’s cooperation in fulfilling the goals set by the Guardian in his cable to the Fourth European Teaching Conference, the First Iberian Conference took place on September 14, 15, and 16. The nine native believers and the pioneers who had attended the Fourth European Teaching Conference brought with their reports the very spirit of this Conference, so that all present were uplifted to a new feeling of closeness to the World Center of our priceless Faith and to fresh resolve to break down the barriers which have existed traditionally between Spain and Portugal.
Recommendations resulting from this historic Conference included: the exchange of community bulletins and of qualified teachers, the formation of an Iberian Teaching Committee, extension teaching work to form six new assemblies, and an Iberian Fund for the Sepulchre of the Báb.
Japanese children 5 to 8 years old singing for the Bahá’í lady at the Parent Teachers Association, Tokyo, at which Barbara Davenport gave the Bahá’í Message. She and her interpreter, Mrs. Fujisana, are in the center, singing English songs with them.
Japan[edit]
From Japan comes an enthusiastic report of ways being opened for the propagation of the Faith. Recently Barbara Dean Davenport, wife at Lt. J. C. Davenport, stationed in Japan, spoke before the PTA of the Kindergarten School. In her talk on “Education,” given in English but successfully translated by Mrs. Mitsu Fujisawa, Mrs. Davenport was able to give the Bahá’í message. So appreciative was the audience of 300 (and Mrs. Davenport comments, “This is one
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of the smaller groups to which I have given talks
in the past six months”!) that she was asked to continue the talks once a month. She and Lt. Davenport
devoutly hope that this may be possible, for there
is much work to be done with a vast number of
contacts. The Davenports may be returned to the U. S.
as their next assigiment, but they have asked for
the prayers of the friends and of the Guardian, in
order that some way may be found to continue with
the tremendous task in Japan.
Members of the Parent Teachers Association, Tokyo, and their guests who heard Mrs. Barbara Davenport give the Bahá’í Message in a talk on education.
American News[edit]
Mass Proclamation in the Mid-South[edit]
During the months of September and October Bahá’í exhibits were staged at three of the leading Mid-South fairs: The Kentucky State Fair at Louisville, the Tri-States Exposition at Memphis and the Mississippi State Fair at Jackson.
Sponsored by local groups in cooperation with the NSA of the United States and the Western Division of the ANTC of the Southern States, these exhibits, it was thought, would publicize the Faith in this difficult section and perhaps fulfill one of the objectives of our program for the current Bahá’í year, namely, a wider proclamation of the Faith.
Brilliantly sparked by Annie Romer, the Louisville group led off with an attractive booth spotlighting the Temple model and featuring pictures of Bahá’í shrines and an attractive display of Bahá’í publications. Here, in addition to the hundreds of people who passed and saw the exhibit, more than one hundred and fifty said they had seen the Temple at Wilmette and some of these had been through it; many theological students came and indicated interest; one man said his minister who had recently been to the Temple spoke to his congregation about the Faith; one man said that a professor of philosophy at the University had spoken on the Faith; many had seen the article in Life Magazine; a few were openly antagonistic and seemed quite exercised over the spread of such a false doctrine; one woman stated that it was all too good to be true and another said that she could not wait to get home and read the literature.
Manned by a fireside group, the Memphis exhibit featured flowers, books and pictures centered about the Temple model. Here the response ranged from mild interest to open antagonism; several remarked that if the principles were really made to work we would have a peaceful world; ministers of several Christian churches including Episcopalian, Methodist and Lutheran and one Mormon elder stopped and investigated and asked questions about the Faith; a Methodist student said that he had written a term paper on the Faith during his senior year at his theological seminary; some ladies assured the friends that the Bahá’ís were well along on the road to perdition and one lady wrote a “Letter to the Editor” protesting that such a pernicious and poisonous doctrine should not be allowed to be shown at “our Fair.”
The Jackson exhibit, held in a tent on the Mid-way, was staged by the Jackson LSA ably assisted by Evelyn Lackey Bivins of Gulfport, Mississippi. This exhibit spotlighted the Temple model and featured a large framed copy of the principles and an exhibit of Bahá’í publications. By means of chairs, seated audiences saw recurrent shows of such ADL films as “The Brotherhood of Man” and our own Temple slides and Haifa Garden movies. These shows were accompanied with background music on an amplifier from the local center along with expositions of salient points of the Faith. Here an American Indian, attached to one of the shows on the grounds, came for literature and an interview; he had heard of the Faith from one of Bahá’u’lláh’s handmaids at Oklahoma City; a group of students from Mississippi Southern College stated that they “have about fifty students there who call themselves Bahá’ís.” Many had seen the Temple at Wilmette and the article in Life Magazine; a dozen or more indicated that they would like to attend fireside groups and public meetings.
The attractive Bahá’í exhibit at the Kentucky State Fair at Louisville was seen by thousands of people many of whom stopped for interviews or took away with them literature on the Faith.
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Bahá’í exhibit booth at the Tri-State Exposition at Memphis, Tennessee, with a record attendance of 325,000 people from the mid-south states of Arkansas, Tennessee, and Mississippi.
In addition to the Temple model which was a common-denominator of these exhibits, all were well identified by large dignified signs reading: “Bahá’í World Faith.” Literally thousands of pieces of literature were presented to those who indicated sufficient interest and many who were further interested bought books. Follow-up meetings were planned at all three places.
Whatever results may be forthcoming from what began as an idea and developed into a project, the consensus of opinion is that more people have been interviewed and given literature than could have been reached by any other means. The future is in the hands of Bahá’u’lláh, but this work of mass proclamation has been done.
The Jackson, Mississippi exhibit occupied a tent on the midway. A large, attractive sign on the front of the tent identified the exhibit as an educational exhibit of The Bahá’í World Faith.
A Tribute to the Faith[edit]
A ten-inch article in the Memphis Press-Scimitar for October 5, 1951, carried a double column headline: WINGFIELD FOUND PEOPLE OF BAHÁ’Í ARE TRUSTED BY ALL. The article announced a talk Dr. Marshall Wingfield would make on his tour of Israel and began with the answer given to the Memphis minister when he asked a Jewish newspaperman in Haifa about the Bahá’ís: “The people of that faith are very gentle and free from hate. They bless everything they touch in Haifa.”
Dr. Wingfield said, the article goes on, that he found both Moslems and Jews “trusted the people of Bahá’í because they have no ax to grind, nothing but good will.” He learned that during the fighting of 1948 both Arabs and Jews allowed the Bahá’ís to go about as they pleased. “They were welcomed equally by both sides. They administered to the wounded of both and could come and go as they pleased when they identified themselves as Bahá’ís.”
After telling of the origin and teachings of the Faith, the article concluded with the minister’s statement: “It is a synthesis of the fraternal and benevolent elements of all the great religions. Its own great insistence is that Love is the reconciler of the human race. For the Bahá’í religion I have a warm spot in my heart.”
Dr. Wingfield was a member of the American Christian Palestine Commission and was on the same tour made by the Reverend Potts of Kansas City whose reactions were printed in a recent Bahá’í News.
On Other Platforms[edit]
In Logan, Utah, a Bahá’í was asked to speak at a symposium in the Presbyterian Church for the Association of Church Women. Roman Catholics, Protestants, and Latter Day Saints were also represented.
The members in East Cleveland received their best newspaper publicity when they presented a program from the pulpit of the Swedenborgian Church of the Holy City on Saturday October 13.
A Bahá’í was selected to speak on religion at the Human Relations workshop of the Women’s Forum of Nassau County, New York. Other topics included in the workshop were mental hygiene and education.
Distance Is No Barrier[edit]
Distances are usually considered a great handicap in Montana, but Bahá’ís came 200 miles to attend the teaching conference and Institute in Helena. The three communities of the state divided the responsibility for portions of The Promised Day Is Come. Visiting Bahá’ís from North and South Dakota also attended.
Salem, Oregon’s only believer no longer feels isolated, realizing that she can draw upon the members of other communities for help in teaching. Portland friends drove the fifty miles to Salem bringing “homemade cake, books, literature, enthusiasm and such love that the room at the YWCA began to glow.” Another Bahá’í drove an equal distance in a driving rain over mountain roads, without windshield wipers, bringing a thermos of hot coffee. The speaker came from yet another direction.
Briefs[edit]
Royal Oak, Michigan, Bahá’ís have received permission from the school board to keep their children out of school to observe the Bahá’í Holy days.
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Through two suppers served to the friends by members of the community, the Bahá’ís of Oakland, California, have been able to send $75 to the fund for the
Shrine of the Báb. Mr. Tranquillino Cortez prepared
a Filipino dinner for one occasion and Mr. and Mrs.
Paul Jones prepared the other.
The exhibit for Religious Education prepared by the Orlando, Florida, Bahá’ís was arranged so that it could be seen both inside and outside the store. There were interior and exterior views of the Temple, an invitation to the public meeting, and the Bible, the Koran, Gleanings, The Hidden Words, a book on Comparative Religions, the World Bible, and Bahá’í World Faith.
Conviction Succeeds[edit]
Sgt. Benjamin Levy tried persistently for 14 months to secure assignment to a non-combatant unit in obedience to the Guardian’s instruction that all Bahá’ís endeavor to seek recognition as conscientious objectors. Sgt. Levy has been transferred to a medical unit.
Exterior view of the display at Orlando, Florida, in preparation for a public meeting on “World Religion — Keystone of Education.”
Fourth European Teaching Conference[edit]
“Beloved Guardian’s Message to Fourth European Teaching Conference moved one hundred forty representatives from nineteen countries to prayerfully dedicate themselves to the accomplishment of the breathtaking goals laid before us with loving confidence. Conference sends heartfelt prayers for the Guardian’s task for building Holy Shrine.”
This cable which was sent to the Guardian from the Conference expresses the spirit that permeated all the sessions of the Fourth European Teaching Conference, held at the Palace Hotel, Scheveningen, Holland, from August 31st to September 4th, 1951.
The Guardian himself set the tone of the Conference in his cable*, read at the opening session, setting forth the goals of the closing years of the Second Seven Year Plan in Europe, and declaring his confident anticipation that “upon (the) termination (of the) brief span (of the) remaining two years”, there would be “(the) gradual formation (of) regional National Assemblies (as) prelude (to the) emergence (of a) separate National Assembly (in) each goal country as well as (the) launching (of) organized campaigns,” in collaboration with the United States and Germany, “aiming (at the) spiritual conquest (of the) remaining sovereign states (of) Europe and, God willing, reaching beyond its borders as far as (the) heart (of the) Asiatic continent.” And climaxed in the reminder that “(The) future edifice (of the) Universal House of Justice, depending for its stability on (the) sustaining strength (of the) pillars erected (in the) diversified communities (of the) East (and) West ... awaits (the) rise (of the) establishment (of) similar institutions (on the) European mainland.”
The Conference meetings were held in the large ballroom of the palatial Palace Hotel, just five minutes’ walk along the beach, which afforded excellent opportunity for exercise between sessions, with the added advantage of a change of locale. Seven long tables covered with soft green velour accommodated the friends, and at the speaker’s table pink begonias and ferns made a lovely setting. A large screen was placed at one end of the room on which to show pictures and films, and on the walls were pictures of the Shrine of the Báb, the Temple in Wilmette, together with pictures and material on the Africa Project. A display of the books which have been printed in the goal countries was very artistically arranged by Ugo Giachery.
Everything that could possibly be done to provide the friends with the physical comforts had been done, and in the address of welcome given by Miss Rita van Sombeek, chairman of the Amsterdam Local Spiritual Assembly, she said, “We have been responsible for the physical aspect of the Conference, and we feel it has been a source of unity drawing us all together. We have felt at every step the blessings of Bahá’u’lláh because without His assistance nothing could have been arranged on such short notice! We, therefore, realize how heartbroken our Italian friends must be that they were deprived of this bounty of acting as your hosts.” The Dutch believers also provided folders in which to keep the mimeographed copies of the various addresses and messages, and those folders for the delegates were artistically decorated with scenes of Holland.
*Published in November Bahá’í News.
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. CHANGE OF ADDRESS should be reported to National Bahá’í Administrative Headquarters, 536 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, Illinois.
