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No. 304

BAHA’I YEAR 113

JUNE, 1956

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BAHA’I TEN YEAR PLAN

Third Phase

Objectives for America Listed in the Guardian’s Message to the Forty-Eighth Annual Convention

1. Newly opened territories must not be allowed to become vacant.

2. Local Assemblies must not be allowed to dissolve or be endangered.

3. The process of increasing the number of supporters and multiplying isolated centers, groups and Assemblies must be accelerated.

4. Incorporation of local Assemblies must proceed with great rapidity.

5. The remaining unopened territories, outside the Soviet orbit, four islands, must have pioneers.

8. The Temple site in Stockholm must be speedily acquired.

7. The six remaining Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds in Latin America and Europe must be rapidly established.

8. The Bahá’í endowments not yet acquired must be secured.

9. The remaining languages to be translated and published.

10. The construction of the home for the Aged in Wilmette must be started and rapidly carried forward.

11. The newly formed National Assemblies are to be incorporated, and those formed later are also to be incorporated.

12. Multiply local Asemblies in all territories where National Assemblies are to be established in the near future—South and Central America, Alaska, Japan, Scandinavia, Finland, Benelux Countries, Iberian Peninsula and France.

Beloved Friends:

In the Guardian’s Convention Message, published in the May issue of BAHÁ’Í NEWS, Shoghi Effendi outlined the particular tasks to be achieved during the Third Phase of the Ten Year Plan. Of these tasks the twelve summarized above have direct reference to American Bahá’ís. Here we have clearly before us the objectives of our work until Riḍván, 1958.

Plans for acquiring the remaining Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds and endowments in Latin America and Western Europe, and for translating and publishing Bahá’í texts in the remaining languages, are under way.

The most arduous tasks are these: (1) preparing for the formation of National Assemblies in Latin America, Alaska, and Japan; (2) preparing for the formation of National Assemblies in Western Europe; and (3) increasing the number of local Assemblies on the home front.

Therefore we are called upon collectively to give the utmost response to plans and appeals launched by the Western Hemisphere Teaching Committee, the Asia Teaching Committee, the European Teaching Committee and the American National Teaching Committee.

The notable successes achieved since the inauguration of the World Crusade are not ends in themselves but means for the achievement of all remaining tasks. Powerful teaching and administrative institutions have been created, and their facilities and experience are at the disposal of every heroic volunteer who arises in response to the Guardian’s call.

The process of dispersal from the larger centers should be vigorously continued, and this will supply the reservoir of new pioneers needed on all fronts.

Above all, the quickening and inspiration of the United States Bahá’í community is the essential requisite for success. We live in heroic days when “living the life” involves confirmation in the spirit of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh and not merely knowledge of His teachings and truths.

“Address yourselves to the promotion of the well-being and tranquility of the children of men,” Bahá’u’lláh wrote in a Tablet directed to the “people of Bahá.”

“Bend your minds and wills to the education of the people and kindreds of the earth, that haply the dissensions that divide it may, through the power of the Most Great Name, be blotted out from its face, and all mankind become the upholders of one Order and the inhabitants of one City.” “Illumine and hallow your hearts; let them not be profaned by the thorns of hate or the thistles of malice. Ye dwell in one world, and have been created through the operation of one Will. Blessed is he who mingleth with all men in a spirit of utmost kindliness and love.” (G1. pp. 333-334)

“Whose ariseth to teach Our Cause must needs detach himself from all earthly things, and regard, at all times, the triumph of Our Faith as his supreme objective.” (G1. p. 334)

—NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY

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JUNE, 1956

Forty-Eighth Annual Baha’i Convention

On the following pages there is published a complete coverage of the National Convention: recommendations made to the National Spiritual Assembly and their actions, the official returns of the election of the new Assembly, and a descriptive account of the proceedings by the appointed Convention Reporter.

Action on Convention Resolutions by the National Spiritual Assembly

The following recommendations were adopted at the Forty-Eighth Annual Bahá’í Convention and were referred to. the incoming National Spiritual Assembly, which has taken the action indicated under each one:

1. That the letter from the Guardian to Mrs. Vaffa Kinney which was read at the Convention by one of the delegates be published in BAHÁ’Í NEWS.

Action: This letter appears on page 13 of this issue of BAHÁ’Í NEWS.

2. That consideration be given to the possibility of interesting some publisher of pocket edition books in bringing out a small volume on the Bahá’í Faith similar to those already published on Islám, Hinduism, etc.

Action: Steps have been taken to investigate this possibility as well as to interest a Bahá’í writer in preparing the manuscript for such a book.

3. That the friends be informed as to what steps can be taken legally to secure tax exemption on their contributions to the Faith.

Action: The Legal Committee of the National Spiritual Assembly has been requested to prepare for publication in BAHÁ’Í NEWS a summary of income tax considerations bearing upon contributions and bequests to the Faith.

4. That the incoming National Spiritual Assembly adopt the budget for 1956-1957 as presented by the Treasurer on behalf of the outgoing Assembly.

Action: The incoming National Spiritual Assembly has adopted this budget which is described in the special insert accompanying this issue of BAHÁ’Í NEWS.

Child Education

5. That a brochure be prepared stating the basic Bahá’í principles on child education for distribution to non-Bahá’í parents.

Action: The National Bahá’í Child Education Committee has been requested to submit a summary of the basic Bahá’í principles of child education in a form suitable for distribution to non-Bahá’í parents.

6. That a statement he prepared outlining the Bahá’í concept of education.

Action: The National Spiritual Assembly has requested its Publishing Liaison Committee to consider this recommendation in the light of the present publishing policies and plans.

7. That consideration be given to the appointment of a College Speakers’ Bureau which would serve the National Bahá’í Youth Committee, the Area Teaching Committees, and the believers generally in promoting speaking opportunities for Bahá’ís in colleges and providing the speakers to fill such engagements.

Action: The National Spiritual Assembly is prepared to appoint a College Speakers’ Bureau whose first responsibility, before starting to function, will be to make a survey of the possibilities of their operation and to make recommendations to the NSA.

8. That the National Spiritual Assembly investigate the possibility of setting up a central organization for the printing and distribution of the bulletins of the various Bahá’í committees.

Action: The National Spiritual Assembly has investigated the possibility of this type of service but finds it is not practical or feasible at the present time.

Youth Committees

9. That the structure of the Area Youth Committees be reconstituted rather than providing for youth representation on the Area Teaching Committees, but that in each case a member or members of the Area Youth Committee be designated to maintain contact with the Area Teaching Committee.

Action: The National Spiritual Assembly will appoint Area Youth Committees in such areas where the National Bahá’í Youth Committee feels there is sufficient personnel for such committees. This will not change the policy of appointing a youth member to the Area Teaching Committee wherever possible.

10. That consideration be given to the appointment of a Youth Advisory or Youth Liaison Committee composed of adults to insure the continuity of the administrative activities of the National Bahá’í Youth Committee.

Action: The National Spiritual Assembly recognizes the need for such an advisory group and will appoint one as soon as suitable personnel can be found, and after consultation with the National Bahá’í Youth Committee itself.

11. That the National Spiritual Assembly make available youth scholarships for both Bahá’í and non-Bahá’í youth to enable them to attend Bahá’í summer schools.

Action: After consideration, the National Spiritual Assembly recorded the view that this is a matter to

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be left to the discretion of each local Spiritual Assembly.

12. That the Forty-Eighth Annual Convention of the Bahá’ís of the United States, having considered a detailed report of the persecution of their Iránian co-religionists through the influence of fanatical forces in Írán, appeal to their newly elected NSA to take all possible and appropriate actions to bring about the termination of this cruel and disgraceful oppression which represents a repudiation of the concepts of human rights and religious liberty supported by the Charter of the United Nations and a betrayal of the fundamental principles revealed by all the Prophets.

Action: It is recorded that the Bahá’í Press Service transmitted this resolution to the Associated Press and the two leading Chicago newspapers. It is also recorded that the National Spiritual Assembly is continuing the energetic campaign undertaken last year with the approval of the Guardian, aimed at removal of the restric 'ons surrounding the Bahá’ís in Írááán.

13. That consideration be given to means that will enable groups of Bahá’í youth to travel to areas which do not have Bahá’í Youth, for the purpose of assisting the friends in those areas to contact youth, special emphasis being placed on the critical areas in the adult administrative structure, namely, small communities.

Action: Although it recognizes the desirability of such travel by groups of youth, the National Spiritual Assembly records the view that because of their responsibilities, both personal and Bahá’í, the Bahá’í youth currently lack time to devote to such projects.

14. That the National Spiritual Assembly consider the possibility of sponsoring some sort of annual public speaking contest on Bahá’í subjects at the high school level.

Action: In view of all the other demands upon the time and funds of the Bahá’ís, the Assembly voted to take no action on this recommendation.

15. That the Convention request the National Spiritual Assembly to express to the Secretary-General of the International Council on behalf of the Convention the gratification of the delegates and visitors in having the privilege of greeting Mr. Shalon, the distinguished visitor from Haifa.

Action: This action has been carried out.

16. That the Bahá’í Publishing Trust give consideration to the publication of choral arrangements of new music written by Bahá’í composers.

Action: The National Spiritual Assembly records the view that at the present time the Bahá’í Publishing Trust can be authorized to publish and distribute only such music as is rendered by the A Cappella choir of the Bahá’í House of Worship.

17. That the National Spiritual Assembly consider ways and means of making available to the believers the type of display panel for literature which was exhibited at the Convention by a delegate from the State of Washington.

Action: The National Spiritual Assembly commends the ingenuity of the friends in Washington and expresses the view that the same type of display can be developed in other parts of the country. Rather than attempting to develop such a project on a national scale, involving high costs of production and problems of distribution, the National Spiritual Assembly has requested the Bahá’í Publishing Trust to develop some suggestions for simple, inexpensive portable displays that can be produced locally by Bahá’í groups and communities.

Human Rights Day

18. That United Nations Human Rights Day (December 10) be included in the list of special events to be observed and publicized by the Bahá’í community this year.

Action: Bahá’í Press Service has been directed to include United Nations Human Rights Day in its list of special events to be publicized in the year 1956-1957.

19. That appreciations of the Faith be sought from the heads of the United Nations delegations of countries where the Faith is well established.

Action: The National Assembly records the view that appreciations of the Faith should not be solicited from representatives of other governments, but that no doubt such ap-

Model of the bronze door for the Bahá’í International Archives Building on Mt. Carmel. The door is 1.80 meters wide and 3.80 meters high. It will take four months to make the wax model for casting. The finishing will include the gliding of the ten roses in the center of each panel.

preciations will come voluntarily from such officials as they learn more about the Cause and become favorably impressed with it.

20. That consideration be given to reinstating the holding of race amity conferences in various parts of the country sponsored by Bahá’í agencies.

Action: This action was referred to the Interracial Teaching Committee with the request that that committee make a recommendation to the National Spiritual Assembly as to the feasibility of conducting such a series of conferences under national direction.

21. That the National Spiritual Assembly instruct the Bahá’ís of the United States as to what stand they should take with respect to membership in the NAACP and similar organizations.

Action: It is the view of the National Spiritual Assembly that the friends should be urged to concentrate their time and energy on the

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direct teaching of the Faith, which offers the only permanent solution to the problems of human relations, and not to dissipate their time and energies in the work of other organizations, no matter how worthy their objectives may be.

Summer Schools

22. That the Bahá’í Summer Schools be asked to include in every adult session a discussion on child education.

Action: The National Spiritual Assembly voted to give consideration to this recommendation at the time the summer school committees are appointed for the 1957 sessions and when general instructions are issued on the types of programs desired by the Assembly.

23. That the National Spiritual Assembly call a conference of experienced Bahá’í teachers for the purpose of developing a coordinated teaching plan for the United States.

Action: The National Assembly appreciates the need for a coordinated national teaching plan, but after careful consideration it records the following views:

a. The Guardian has given us the basic elements of a national plan in calling upon the American believers to multiply the centers and bring groups to Assembly status this year at an accelerated pace.

b. A study of the annual reports received from local Spiritual Assemblies reveal the need of a thorough spiritual quickening of the entire American Bahá’í community.

c. The methods which the National Spiritual Assembly has adopted are aimed at accomplishing the objectives set forth by the Guardian in his Convention message and also at stimulating the believers to attain firmness in the Covenant and to acquire capacity and desire to serve the faith.

24. That the National Spiritual Assembly make available to the friends the article by Thornton Chase entitled, “Before Abraham Was, I Am,” after eliminating any inaccuracies which it may contain.

Action: The National Spiritual Assembly has referred this matter to its Publishing Liaison Committee for study and recommendation.

25. That members on the Summer School Committees be appointed for a two-year period, with half the membership of the committees being retained the succeeding year in order to give continuity for planning and programming.

Action: In its annual appointment of the school committees the National Assembly attempts to retain a nucleus of experienced committee members.

26. That the National Spiritual Assembly consider opening the third phase of the World Crusade with a strong appeal for dispersal on the home front.

Action: The National Assembly will include such an appeal in its general coordinated plan for the attainment of home front objectives in the third phase of the Crusade.

27. That the agenda for the State Conventions be prepared in such a way as to allow more time for those present to consult on their experiences and problems, thus giving those who are elected as delegates an opportunity to become familiar with these ideas and problems.

Action: This recommendation will be referred to the State Convention Planning Committee with the request that it be given consideration when plans are made for the 1956 State Conventions.

—NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY

Election of New National Assembly

The votes cast by the delegates to the Forty-Eighth Annual Bahá’í Convention resulted in the election of the following members as the National Spiritual Assembly for the year 1956-57.

Paul E. Haney

Horace Holley

H. Borrah Kavelin

Charlotte M. Linfoot

Charles Wolcott

Margery McCormick

Edna M. True

Robert W. McLaughlin

Katherine K. True

The officers elected by the National Spiritual Assembly are as follows:

Chairman — Paul E. Haney

Vice-Chairman — Charles Wolcott

Secretary — Horace Holley

Assistant Secretary — Charlotte M. Linfoot

Recording Secretary — Edna M. True.

Treasurer — H. Borrah Kavelin

—NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY

Hazíratu’l-Quds of Guatemala. The dedication ceremonies on February 24, 1956, were reported in “Bahá’í News” for May.

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Expectancy, Accomplishments, Challenge Keynote National Convention Business

Every annual Bahá’í convention opens on a note of expectancy. The progress of the Bahá’í Faith is now moving with so great a momentum on all continents of the planet that delegates and visitors arrive at the site of deliberations eager to hear of the latest conquests and to learn from the Riḍván Message of our beloved Guardian the next points of attack.

The Forty-Eighth Annual Convention of the Bahá’ís of the United States, held in Foundation Hall, Wilmette, Ill., for four days, April 26 through 29, 1956, was no exception. Even on Wednesday preceding the convention period, when registration was already climbing to well over the 300 mark, each believer knew that his fellow believers were wondering “What will this convention bring?”

The Ten-Year Crusade had come to the end of its first three years. Annual Reports of the committees of the National Spiritual Assembly disclosed all but the latest moves in the great drama as far as the American Bahá’í community was most closely concerned. What had been the successes, what the failures? How would the Riḍván Message of our beloved Guardian throw into perspective the whole picture and lead us into the future strengthened and re-confirmed!

Message from the Guardian

The Message from the Guardian, read about mid-way on the first morning, began on a note of victory. “The triumphant termination of the second phase of the decade-long global Spiritual Crusade on which the followers of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh have so auspiciously embarked” were the opening words that lifted our hearts to share in the “joy, pride and thankfulness” which Shoghi Effendi feels in his own heart.

As we listened to these ringing words, other words and other pictures crowded into my mind. Doubtless other delegates recalled how,

Hazíratu’l-Quds at Ciudad Trujillo, Dominican Republic, purchased on February 14, 1956.

one hundred years ago, according to Nabil’s Narrative, His Holiness the Báb sent His Letters of the Living forth to the far corners of Persia commissioned with a unique and blessed message, and strengthened with the divine assurance of “ultimate victory.” Their eyes, however, had to penetrate the thick clouds of oppression that hung over the world, and over their land in particular, to catch even a glimpse of the Day of Fulfillment.

Then as the dawn of a new world era became brighter and pioneer teachers crossed boundaries, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá stood one day some sixty-eight years later on a site in the western world, where He was heard to utter words expressive of deep feeling over the onward march of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh. “O Bahá’u’lláh! What hast thou done? O Bahá’u’lláh! May My life be sacrificed for Thee! O Bahá’u’lláh! May My soul be offered up for Thy sake! How full were Thy days with trials and tribulations! How severe the ordeals Thou didst endure! How solid the foundation Thou has finally laid, and how glorious the banner Thou didst hoist!”

April, 1956. And the victory is almost at hand. “The year that has just ended,” the Guardian wrote the convention, is one “which posterity cannot fail to regard as one of the most eventful and challenging in the annals of the Formative Age of the Bahá’í Dispensation.” Overshadowed as it was at the beginning by “a sudden and highly menacing crisis” in the recrudescence of persecution in Persia, which will lead to two “shining goals” in the cradle of the Faith, it has seen an “equally significant development” in the progressive unfoldment of the Ten-Year Plan all over the earth. It is now entering, he continued, “upon the third, and what promises to be the most brilliant, phase in its execution.”

A Major Turning Point

This Crusade now stands “at a major turning point in the history of its marvelous unfoldment," was our Guardian’s statement as he opened before our eyes the years ahead with even greater clarity than everbefore. “Premonitory signs can already be discerned when troops will flock to its standard.” Although the pitfalls that lie ahead are still numerous, he said, the Lord of Hosts will continue to assist His spiritual warriors “to a degree that no finite mind can imagine or human heart perceive.”

There is need to speed forward the remaining tasks of the Crusade, an urgency that the delegates caught at once as the Message was being read. For one long paragraph, as the Guardian delineated the unfinished work, step by step, he repeated with each step the call for rapid accomplishment, using one poignant phrase after another to build up the sense of acceleration: “With a rapidity”

. . . “least possible delay” . . .

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Seven members of the new National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Central America.

“speedily acquired” . . . “forthwith purchased” . . . “expeditiously as possible” . . . “immediate attention.”

Having in detail pictured the present status of the Crusade and outlined in review the tasks of the future without mention of additional obligations at this time, our beloved Guardian omitted speaking of what we had expected — an emphasis on the continued lag on the Home Front in America. This came as a gentle admonition and guide in one sentence of a note appended for us to the main message:

“He hopes that the national convention will be inspiring to the friends, and encourage both the pioneering work and the building-up of new centers and Assemblies on the Home Front, a much-needed but neglected task.””

Convention Begins Work

All Bahá’ís will want to read for themselves this victory message from Shoghi Effendi and ponder through the next months their place in the progress of the great Plan of salvation of mankind, (see May BAHÁ’Í NEWS). Discussion of the message itself on convention floor did not come until Thursday afternoon and was brief in its nature, but the message became the guide for all the consultation periods of the entire convention.

Following a pre-convention day of registering, greeting friends, buying literature, studying the exhibits, and meeting with members of the National Spiritual Assembly in the evening for a social hour, the convention proper opened on Thursday morning, April 26, at 9:30, under nature’s most lowering skies. Clouds and rain persisted for four days, eager to satisfy a thirsty earth and to quicken belated blooms in the Temple gardens. Even as the first session began, a tornado warning sent drivers to check on precautions for their parked cars.

Registration through the sessions rose from the first formally announced count of 328 adults, 24 youth, 118 delegates, total of 832, to its peak Sunday of a total of 885, with 76 youth and 141 delegates, the largest Bahá’í convention in the United States with the exception of the Centenary in 1944 and the Jubilee in 1953.

After greetings from the National Spiritual Assembly to the convention, Paul E. Haney, chairman and Hand of the Cause, who presided temporarily to open the convention, brought the good news that the regional National Spiritual Assembly of South and West Africa was elected on Sunday, April 22. He had attended as convenor and representative of the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States.

Permanent officers chosen by the delegates were Mr. Haney, chairman, and Horace Holley, secretary, 115 and 113 the total number of votes cast in each balloting.

The convention theme was “Unfoldment of the World Crusade.” The tentative agenda had been prepared by the National Spiritual Assembly to include two sub-themes that proved to be so closely interrelated that discussion of these often went hand-in-hand: objectives as given to the American Bahá’í community by the Guardian, and suggestions for the convention consultation as sent in by delegates and by the December state conventions. After adoption of the agenda in the main, the convention got down to work to hear reports from the National Spiritual Assembly and its national committees and to consult with these bodies which serve the rising Order of Bahá’u’lláh.

Although the sessions were long in time and physically tiring; although committee members were laboring between the formal meetings and into the night; although there were exchanges of many kinds to be made between friends from states far and near and new friends to meet; nevertheless, never has a convention been more earnest or enthusiastic or quick-thinking, and never has the American convention experienced so great a measure of sustained interest and pointed concentration as this one. Zest, friendliness, charity and a spirit of dedication were united with ever-growing understanding of the staggering significance to humanity of the World Crusade goals.

The National Assembly Report

Horace Holley, secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly and Hand of the Cause of God, made the report for that body to the assembled delegates. It was an informative and kaleidoscopic view of the Bahá’í world and of achievements of the Bahá’í Community of the United States for the past year. Mimeographed copies supplied to the delegates, together with the copies provided of the Guardian’s Message, were a much-needed and much-used instrument for each delegate’s kit during the convention.

“The shape and meaning of this Bahá’í year were set for us by the Guardian’s Message to the 1955 Convention in which be defined the World Crusade tasks to be completed, including the furtherance of the immediate tasks enumerated in his 1954 Message,” Mr. Holley said. He outlined the objectives calling for re-

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sults, 1954-55 and 1955-56, and stated that we must study annual reports of the Intercontinental and National Teaching Committees to find the true results as they have been achieved. A complete picture, even then, will not be available until the reports of local elections held on April 21 are all in.

“Suffice it to say,” was his praise, “these committees have exerted every effort to increase the flow of pioneers in order to prepare for the 1957 elections of the National Assemblies, and to develop new Assemblies in the United States.”

The American responsibility for projects in respect to Temple sites (4), Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds (27), endowments and translations, nears completion. Incorporations have been increased in the United States by two, now making 83 of the 100 Assemblies required by the Plan. The Guardian sent very important cables throughout the year, specific ones dealing with the Persian persecutions, revitalization of the American Bahá’í community, and approval of a new statement prepared by the National Spiritual Assembly on “The Oneness of Mankind,” intended to explain the Bahá’í position on race relationship at this time of confusion and agitation. Shoghi Effendi also gave permission for the publication of Marzieh Gail’s translation of Mysterious Forces of Civilization, a work by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

Turning to the situation on the Home Front, the secretary reported, as of April, 1955, that nine new Assemblies were formed, nine lost and 10 re-established, totalling an addition of 10 when we need over 16 new Local Spiritual Assemblies each year to win the Crusade goal of 300 in the United States by 1963. “Under these circumstances it behooves the . . . believers to assume, each one, a full measure of responsibility for living the Bahá’í life.”

Reviewing special activities the National Spiritual Assembly report covered responsibility for publishing Bahá’í World Vol. XII; acting as representative for The Bahá’í International Community to present letter and documents to the United Nations on Charter revision; appeal made to the United Nations in the matter of persecutions in Írán; the postponing of a decision to replace Temerity Bahá’í School, now requisitioned by the Air Academy; and the plan of Ellsworth Blackwell, a member of the N.S.A., to enter the pioneer field. In addition to some items mentioned, Mr. Holley pointed to several others as bringing special blessings to the American community this year: The Festival of Faith at San Francisco; extensive publicity resulting from the Íránian persecution; continuing influence of World Religion Day; the first Bahá’í Asian Conference, held in Japan; continuing influence of the Bahá’í House of Worship; and formation of the National Spiritual Assembly of South and West Africa (the fifth “Pillar” brought into being with the assistance of the American National Spiritual Assembly).

Express Our Gratitude

To Shoghi Effendi the Convention cabled a message of gratitude and love in response to his Message, sent to us as to all other Bahá’í National Spiritual Assemblies meeting during the Riḍván period. This is what we said:

“The delegates and friends at the 48th Annual Convention express heartfelt gratitude for message announcing triumphant termination of the second phase of the global crusade.

“This message of the unfoldment Faith both at home and abroad under challenging conditions inspires increasing awareness of our spiritual world citizenship.

“We are gratified your prayers that we as individuals and as a community may develop our potentialities and assume our responsibilities as called for in 3rd phase Crusade. Devoted love.”

To this message the Guardian replied by cable the following day as follows: “Deeply appreciate message. Urge redouble efforts attainment goals (of) Plan. Praying fervently (for) unprecedented victories. Deepest 1ove.”

Perhaps most of the believers gathered in Foundation Hall on the first day felt as I, that we would like to fully respond to the Guardian’s dear wish for us and send him before long the completed list of tasks accomplished. Perhaps they, too, felt deeply his loving expression of hope that “the national convention will be inspiring to the friends.” Perhaps they all resolved to play a part in making it so.

The annual convention is almost like a prism, reflecting light in manifold shades of color and brilliance. The many items of the agenda, the varied and beautiful personalities, the flashing consultation; the sacred moments of prayer at the cornerstone, the devotions together in the indescribably, heavenly beauty of the Auditorium, the thrill, and almost reverence, with which pioneers are received; the complexity of reports, statistics, exhibits and goals; the magnificence of the House of Worship rising on the ridge and reflected in its many tones of brilliance or softness against a changing

First Local Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Cap Haitian, Haiti, formed on April 21, 1956.

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sky, the delightful moments of eating and drinking together; the hard, hard work of preparation and conduct of all aspects of the convention procedure and management, and the surprise events that break upon the scene sometimes—these things and others expand the soul, and polish it, till it, too, reflects in greater or lesser degree the lights of a new world in creation. May this spiritual renewal be enough this year among all believers to build up new centers and Assemblies on the Home Front, “a much-needed but neglected task,” was the wish of the delegates often expressed.

On the Home Front

There has been progress this year in Home Front teaching, but it seems unlikely, when final reports are in, that we will find the very necessary foundation has been adequately laid here for the advance of the Crusade in its next phase in America and throughout the world This was the core of the American National Teaching Committee’s presentation to the convention on Thursday afternoon, which started off one of the liveliest and most serious discussion periods of the whole four days.

Charles Wolcott, of the National Spiritual Assembly and chairman of the committee, and Mrs. Jesma Herbert, secretary, led the consultation period following their presentation. Delegates and visitors sat alert every moment, a large number of the former participating in rapid-fire succession for some four hours.

Again this year, with some reports still to come in, there is evidence of a failure to achieve Assembly goals: a possible gain of only 12 Assemblies (new, possibly 18, restored 6, and lost 12). With a need of nearly 20 every year for the duration of the Crusade to make a total of 300 for victory, we continue to fall short. And the situation is rendered the more serious by the immaturities causing the loss of once-established Assemblies.

On the enrollment side the record is better: 434 this year, including 69 youth, with much of this activity under area jurisdiction. Withdrawals as a result of special National Assembly letters sent out to determine the real status of inactive believers came to 355—a process of house cleaning, a facing of facts. Last year enrollments came to only 140.

“Advance this year has been tangible evidence of the progress and use of the elements of our teaching structure (national, area and home front committees),” Mr. Wolcott said. After a review of objectives and goals, Mr. Wolcott pointed to the need of rapidity in the national field. “We cannot lose speed at any time. We cannot supply the needs in the foreign fields unless we fill the reservoir at home. Stalwart workers have left our Home Front. We must replace them. The new Message from the Guardian says: ‘The mighty and steady process involving the increase in the number of the avowed supporters of the Faith, and the multiplication of isolated centers, groups and local assemblies must, throughout this newly opened phase of the Plan, be markedly accelerated.’ This is the keynote of the discussion.

“There is no arbitrary method of achieving what we are after,” Mr. Wolcott continued . . . “Let us be happily dedicated and consecrated.”

Sparking the consultation was the first topic on the suggestion sheet accompanying the agenda pages: “What is the reason for the present weakness in our American Bahá’í community . . . and what can be done about it?”

Questions and suggestions to get at the heart of the matter flowed: More of us must move to the weak areas and the new areas . . . We must not permit God’s work to be done in bungling fashion . . . Need for well taught, well-trained “amateurs”. . . Examine the strength of our own communities as a positive step . . . Revitalize our own bases of action . Be powerful in the Covenant, then we will be on fire . . . The one big thing being done by the pioneers in other lands is to live the Faith . . . Success is due to teamwork in a Bahá’í community—al1 down the line! . . . Help new believers to continue growing. Don’t drop them when they enroll . . . Let’s start being positive. We have a prestige that we never had before. It is getting a little more fashionable to be a Bahá’í. Let’s use this as a springboard to teaching others. The time has come when the individual must ask himself: Do I really believe? Then, I am ready to serve Bahá’u’lláh . . . What is wrong with us is not lack of information, but lack of enthusiasm . . . A teacher must cross the miles between himself and his student through knowledge and understanding . . Pioneers often teach more receptive peoples. Let us analyze our environment in America and choose our tools accordingly, for we must win confi-

Bahá’ís of Rarotonga with the two pioneers, who elected the first Local Spiritual Assembly in the Cook Islands on April 21, 1956.

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First Local Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Agana, Guam, formed on April 21, 1956.

dence and meet people on their own level at first . . . If Bahá’ís have the fire they will set others aglow. Certainly to devote myself to the Cause I must learn and know. This is the way to regenerate . . . Do we need a full-time personnel director to study this membership situation? . . . Do the friends really know that they are angels? We are doing something to the world! . . . While teaching we need to instill, gently, a love for the Writings and an eagerness to learn the Bahá’í way of life . . . Need frequent and impressive public meetings . . . Walk with people you are trying to interest. . . Try pocket editions for presenting the Cause . . . Love, so that you will sense what the other soul needs. The cup of love must be spilled for others. The Guardian said to a pilgrim that we must become purified and welded together, and must dedicate ourselves. Then we will grow. We need to make the Teachings a part of each of us . . . God seeks out souls for us to teach. Our problem is to attain the Spirit of Faith for ourselves . . . We can expect success it we teach as did ‘Abdu’l-Bahá; prayer, meditation, dedication, perseverance and action are all essential . . . The Guardian has said that the believers must be united in the Ten-Year Plan.

A Divine Institution

Now that the House of Worship is completed in all its radiant beauty, the gardens planted and the new fountains in action, the American Bahá’ís seeing thousands of visitors attracted to the Temple each year, a time has come when the convention program need not include these things as an objective or for report. The rapid development of the divine institution of the Hands of the Cause requires special place.

Last year the American Hands met the convention and shared their experiences and wisdom. This year on the first evening they did likewise: Mrs. Corinne True, Mr. Horace Holley and Mr. Paul E. Haney, assisted by three members of the Auxiliary Board in the western hemisphere, Mrs. Margery McCormick, Mrs. Florence Mayberry and Mr. William deForge.

It was an impressive and inspiring evening, begun with readings about the Hands from Bahá’í literature. As Mrs. True stood to greet the convention all arose to honor her in an expression of gratitude for her long life of firmness, devotion and service.

In addressing the delegates and friends Mr. Haney pointed out for the Hands that the function new conferred on the institution is threefold: to stress the verities of the Faith; to emphasize the tasks of the Crusade; and to assist local communities and groups to grow strong. The efforts of members of the Auxiliary Board have been dynamic in the last service. “In the institution of the Hands we have a body, the spiritual significance of which we are but dimly aware,” he said.

A few inspirational lights from the brief talks of the Auxiliary Board members were: Mrs. McCormick— “One of the objectives of the members of the Auxiliary Board in assisting communities has been to help the Bahá’í believe that he is really significant to the Cause of God. For some mysterious reason . . . we have been able to respond to the Cause . . . it is not our capacity that makes it possible for God to take a moth and make it an eagle. It is our willingness to let Him work through us.”

Florence Mayberry: “You are the most important teachers in the world. You partake of the wonderful spirit of discipleship as the followers of Bahá’u’lláh, in spite of the fact that you are full of flaws. You are also full of beauty.” She told the thrilling story of the power of the Faith in illuminating and confirming a famous Canadian geologist.

William deForge: How the power of God selected and brought thirty-seven to a public meeting in Latin America was related dramatically by him. “The lesson to me is this,” he said. “If we will so discipline ourselves by God’s love, thousands of affinities will search us out.”

The tremendous feature of the evening, in detail and with careful explanation of the significances as far as we can understand them, was the account of the historic events occurring in Írán and the repercussions throughout the world in connection with the most recent persecutions of this past year. This was presented by Horace Holley, Hand of the Cause, and was to have been followed by a film showing scenes of spoliation and destruction in Írán, a showing made at a later time in the convention.

The chronological data cannot be included in this brief account of the convention, but we can include a few of Mr. Holley’s interpretative remarks.

“The traditional enemies overlooked the power of Bahá’u’lláh. Unexpected friends began to arise.” Here he cited the names of nine outstanding individuals who commented publicly on the injustice of the persecution of Írán’s largest minority. The effect of cables to Íránian officials, the appeal to the United Nations, and the large measure of publicity throughout the world given by the press was to reveal to the

[Page 10]10

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government and religious leaders of Írán that the Bahá’í Faith is no longer confined to their country, but is a world religion, he explained.

“Out of this bitter savagery has come a great quickening throughout the World. The Guardian said if we can’t build the Temple in Írán according to the Ten-Year Plan then we will build it in Kampala, Uganda! We have more than offset the situation in Írán. We can serve the Faith with all our hearts. After all, demonstration of action is what counts.”

During the discussion period, questions brought the following explanations from Mr. Holley and Mr. Haney: Properties belonging to the Faith have not been restored in Írán. Bahá’ís do not have unrestricted freedom of assembly. There was a recent renewal of persecution in one village. The United Nations Secretary-General’s action to present the matter to the Íránian minister as a result of our appeal finishes the sequence of actions in regard to the U.N. appeal at the present time. Other possibilities may open up. A reshuffling of powers in Írán might ameliorate the situation because banning was by ministerial decree, not by act of Parliament. The Mullás seized a chance to strike at the Cause and “stampeded” action. It is their fanaticism and the human injustices that we may speak of and not draw attention to the governmental situation. Írán not only signed the United Nations Charter, but also the Declaration of Human Rights, so continued persecution of the type that has been is a violation, and as such is a threat to all the world now and is the concern of all peoples.

It is because of these things that the historic events in Írán are of such magnitude. This is why the Guardian lifted our sights by sending to the Bahá’í world his magnificent letter entitled “A Mysterious Dispensation of Providence.”

In making his presentation of the historic events, step by step, Mr. Holley shared with the friends many details of what had happened in Írán, and of actions taken by the Íránian Bahá’ís, by the Guardian and by the American National Assembly which we had not Known before or seen in their true significance. He made it clear that the United States State Department has been provided with

Bahá’í group of Crete, a German goal, composed of the two pioneers and the first native declared believer.

complete information on the situation and on all action taken, and he explained the effectiveness of the Public Relations campaign inaugurated by the National Spiritual Assembly.

The Very Life Blood

The next morning, Friday, three wonderful hours were spent on another great institution of the Faith—the Fund! All figures came alive with spiritual vitality and world significance, as we realized how closely interwoven each budget item has been and will be with the objectives of the Crusade.

The National Assembly made its report of stewardship through another of its able members, the national treasurer, H. B. Kavelin, and also presented a proposed budget for the ensuing year, which the convention recommended for adoption by the National Spiritual Assembly. Delegates responded to the Assembly presentation with sustained interest, understanding, appreciation, and co-operation never before equalled in an American Bahá’í convention. The extended time of the session to 12:30 found almost every one breathless from the expenditure of energy and enthusiasm.

Mr. Kavelin spoke of the Mountain of God as a huge operating headquarters where the Ten-Year Plan begins its unfoldment. Directing this world-encircling operation is the “Sign of God” on earth. The Guardian is ever watchful of the slightest development . . . We may rejoice that we have participated in this carefully organized plan . . . Facts and figures of the treasurer’s office are not cold; they are warm and pulsing when you translate them into actions. They are symbols of joyous sacrifice . . . And these symbols become component parts of the new World Order before our very eyes.”

The budget recommended by the convention as proposed by the treasurer’s office in accordance with needs of the Crusade for 1956-57 calls for $500,000, a reduction of $50,000 in comparison with last year, not because the requirements are really less but because the American Bahá’í community totalled contributions last year of $373,000. Special estate funds made up $110,500 and the use of a balance in estate funds from the previous year brought the moneys to be used up to $583,000, the amount that was expended. The treasurer explained that estate funds will not always be available.

Exact allocations were made clear by the treasurer’s report and will he relayed to communities by the delegates. The amazing thing, said Mr. Kavelin, is that we accomplish so much with so little. He recounted, one by one, the tangible symbols of our achievement, beginning with the purchase of twenty-three Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds and allocation for four more. The speeding up of this objective increased the outlay this past year and emergency costs were $34,000 for Persian relief and a $55,000 contract for a Public Relations campaign to continue till next December ($33,000 of this in last year).

Most of the committees last year spent less than their budget, largely because of their consciousness of the drains on the National Fund, and have this year been curtailed somewhat in budget allotments. This year new allocations have had to be made: anticipated expenses in formation of five new National Spiritual Assemblies, Bahá’í World Vol. XII, and the beginning of construction on the first Dependency.

While last year the convention consultation ran the more usual course of how to raise more for the Fund, this year there was a flood of questions concerning the structure, operation, and purposes of the Fund. With the needs to be met, it seemed that the delegates were bent on gaining understanding at every point, that they might in turn make clear at home how the budget is the life blood of the rising institutions of Bahá’u’lláh. We felt with the Na-

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tional Assembly that success in the financial field can come on no other basis than that of Faith—that somehow the channels will be opened to us.

There was some discussion of how individuals may give, with clarification made of the four Funds through which an American Bahá’í may serve directly: the World Center Fund, to which donations are made through the Guardian: the Continental Fund; the National Fund; and local funds. The national treasurer pointed out our spiritual privilege and obligation, as individuals, to make contributions direct to the Guardian for the World Center. The National Spiritual Assembly also sustains this Fund with a contribution of $40,000. In order to fulfill its budget for this contribution, the National Assembly must receive contributions from individual Bahá’ís and local Assemblies.

From financial consideration of Crusade objectives, of which the American community has been allotted the “lion’s share” by Shoghi Effendi, the convention turned to reports of committees, Intercontinental, American Indian Service, Interracial, education and training, proclamation and service committees; receiving from each committee amazing reports of solid progress made, and asking from these committees how the local communities may he of further assistance to them.

Committee chairmen and secretaries did not attempt to give complete surveys of the work done in the past

year, for this has been done most excellently in Annual Reports; but they did highlight some of the achievements and point the direction planned for 1956-57. In the Reports, from beginning to end, is a valuable and fascinating story of the activities of the American Bahá’í community that no believer will want to miss. (The pamphlet has been mailed to all with BAHÁ’Í NEWS.) With the aid of films and literature, or without such assistance, each committee on the floor of the convention was warmly received, made an excellent presentation, and called forth vigorous discussion. Notable, perhaps, as promoters of consultation were Bahá’í Interracial Teaching Committee, American Indian Service Committee, National Bahá’í Child Education Committee and National Bahá’í Youth Committee, a sign that in these phases of work the American believers themselves are vitally engaged.

Some committees had the good fortune to bring to the platform pioneers from goal or consolidation territories. William Sears arrived early in the African presentation. He gave a deeply moving account of the formation of the first regional National Assembly of South and West Africa, of which he is now the chairman. This fulfills a goal of three new regional Assemblies in Africa by Riḍván, and was the responsibility of the American National Assembly.

Mrs. Loyce Lawrence, pioneer with Mildred Clarke in the Lofoten

Newly incorporated Local Spiritual Assembly of up Bahá’ís of Heidelberg, Germany.

Islands, used slides to show this European goal, with pictures also of Spitzbergen, where she had gone hoping to find a way to remain.

Fred and Jean Berest came in from Panama City, radiant from the south and with greetings from the National Spiritual Assembly of Central America.

Jamshed Fozdar of Saigon (Asia) spoke of plans of a conference in Jakarta in August, and Don Hawley, coming from the East, said: “If you want to serve God . . . we want you in Africa.”

Thrilling stories were told of pioneering in our goal countries and islands by the committee representatives, tales that will live forever in Bahá’í history, many of them to be in Bahá’í World volumes.

The big work in Africa, in addition to constantly spreading the Faith, is now basically consolidation, so that the foundation of the new regional Assemblies may remain strong. A few more pioneers, preferably Negro, are still needed.

In Asia, two virgin goals are without pioneers and two islands are unsettled. Consolidation work is going forward in Japan, Formosa, and Korea with rapidity. The Nikko conference in Japan was an historic event and preparatory to the organization of the Japanese National Spiritual Assembly in Riḍván, 1957.

Europe is slow to awaken, but the work goes forward with continuing victories toward every objective: new believers, purchase of Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds, endowments and the anticipated consummation of purchase of the Temple site in Stockholm in the near future. Pioneers are still needed, especially in France, where a National Spiritual Assembly is to be formed in Riḍván, 1958.

In the western hemisphere, holding prizes already won, and at the same time reaching as yet uncontacted native peoples, is the continuing task of the committee. This is true in Alaska in preparation for the Alaskan National Assembly by 1957, and in all parts of Latin America, where the goals are 20 National Assemblies, ultimately, and four regionals before that time.

Introduced to the convention by the American Indian Service committee was Francis LaQuier, of the Chippewa tribe, the most recent new

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believer with American Indian ancestry. He came to the convention with the friends from Minneapolis This same committee announced that Tim Ross has volunteered to go to Macy, Nebraska, to walk With the Indian “all the way” and help to restore there the first Indian Local Spiritual Assembly. In the past year a number of believers have gone to Indian reservations and are doing thrilling contact work. The committee “stands breathlessly waiting” for more pioneers.

A tape recordi.ng of the voice of the beloved Dorothy Baker reporting on her visit with Shoghi Effendi relative to the importance of reaching the American Indian and of teaching the American Negro was played in connection with the Interracial and American Indian presentations. This was a momentary emotional highlight of the convention.

The Bahá’í Youth chairman, Peter McLaren, set off an exceedingly stimulating and long discussion relative to ways to reach the youth in America, and to the cooperative relationship between youth and adult believers in every community.

The Bahá’í Publishing Trust announced that Bahá’í World Vol. XII, the Jubilee number, will be off the press in about eight weeks. The Bahá’í Press Service announced the new Schedule of Events for the coming year for proclaiming the Faith

to the masses, calling attention to the inclusion of Woodrow Wilson Day for this year. The United Nations Committee carefully explained the steps taken in its contacts with U.N. bodies in respect to the Íránian persecutions, thus strengthening the ties of the International Bahá’í Community with the U.N., a Crusade goal.

The chief asset of the Audio-Visual Education committee in presenting its services to the convention was its exhibit booth, where believers kept the committee attendants busy every hour of the convention period. “We are trying to prepare for the day that is coming when you will need all of these aids in giving the Faith to the large numbers who will ask for it,” the committee explained. Even now there is a large turnover and widespread use of the committees’ materials. The Bahá’í Sales Committee, working with an enlarged staff for the convention, reported sales amounting to $11.92 last year.

The summer school committees described their programs for the coming season and presented problems that have faced them with the diminished budgets at their disposal since the Crusade opened. The national treasurer had reported that Louhelen, to be renamed on September first “Davison Bahá’í School,” had been given an increased allocation this year for repairs. The Child

Group attending the Regional Teaching Conference of North Rhine-Westphalia of Dusseldorf.

Education Committee has many new materials which are making children and teachers happy.

The hard work being done by the other service committees was given deep attention by the delegates, who would go home with a broadened view of the aids that we have to assist us in our study and teaching of the most wondrous Message.

Election of National Assembly

The election of the new National Spiritual Assembly, held late Friday afternoon in a prayerful and sacred atmosphere, called once again to service eight members of the previous Assembly. The National Assembly had announced that Ellsworth Blackwell planned to leave after the convention for his new pioneer post in Haiti. The new member is Dr. Katherine K. True, well-Known Bahá’í worker, sister of Miss Edna True, also on the National Assembly, and daughter of Mrs. Corinne True, American Hand of the Cause.

Of a possible total of 171 ballots, there were cast 166. Two were invalidated. Number Of votes cast, 1476. Number of individuals voted for, 110. By vote of the convention it was decided that the names of no more than the nine receiving the largest number of votes should be read, with all others held available to individual request.

In the absence of Robert W. McLaughlin from the convention because of the death of his mother, the new National Spiritual Assembly organized tentatively as follows: Paul E. Haney, chairman; Charles Wolcott, vice-chairman; Horace Holley, secretary; H. B. Kavelin, treasurer; Charlotte M. Linfoot, assistant secretary; Edna True, recording secretary; and Margery McCormick, Robert McLaughlin and Dr. Katherine True.

The long periods of consultation used by the convention this year brought forth stimulating ideas and resulted in twenty-seven formal recommendations to the National Spiritual Assembly, which are published elsewhere in this issue of BAHÁ’Í NEWS.

Distinguished Guest

Before we bring our story to a close, it is our pleasure to tell of the visitor from Haifa introduced to us by special message from Leroy Ioas, Secretary-Genera1 of the Interna-

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Riverside, Calif., community, which has reached Assembly status.

tional Bahá’í Council, and greeted by us in the convention. Accorded the courtesy of the platform, Mr. Uriel Shalon, of the State of Israel, spoke briefly of his friendship with Mr. Ioas and the appreciation of every citizen of Haifa for the work being done by the Bahá’í Community in beautifying the city. “We are happy and proud to have in Haifa and Israel this Bahá’í Community,” he said, “and glad to see it growing and developing from year to year. . . . Your Shrine has become a landmark of Haifa.”

“We pray and hope,” he added, “that all of us may not be prevented from continuing our peaceful, constructive work and that soon the time will come when our neighbors will see that the progress of Israel is for their benefit, too.”

Mr. Shalon, a citizen of Haifa since 1923, is Managing Director of the Shemen Oil Industry, Haifa; member and chairman of the development committee of the Haifa Municipal Council; president of the Association of Engineers and Architects of Israel; president of the Standard Institute of Israel, and member of the Branch of Governors of the Israel Institute of Technology.

International Archives

A word picture of the new International Archives Building under construction on Mt. Carmel was brought to the convention on Saturday evening by Fred Morey, returned pilgrim. Patterned after the Parthenon, two-thirds its size, it is one of at least four buildings to be erected in the arc, Mr. Morey explained. “The arc,” or areaway, so-called because of its shape, will be the visible Ark of the Covenant on the Mountain of God when the other edifices are built, for the Guardianship, the House of Justice, and the Hands of the Cause. “The Ark will sail around the arc” Mr. Morey quoted the Guardian as saying.

At the Riḍván Feast, a beautiful worship service which closed this day, Mr. Morey annointed each believer with attar of roses from Shoghi Effendi. Ethereal music and readings from heaven, in an Auditorium open to God and to man, this was the setting for meditation that re-kindled our souls with the joy and light oi understanding that “the Best Beloved is come.”

The convention came to a close on Sunday afternoon on a note of bursting enthusiam for teaching, followed by a large public congress in the evening. Mrs. Florence Mayberry of Santa Paula, California, member of the American Auxiliary Board, was the speaker. Her subject was “The Transformation of Human Society.” Mr. John Stroessler of La Mesa, California, presided as chairman.

—ALICE SIMMONS COX

Convention Reporter

Guardian’s Letter to Mrs. Kinney

In a recent letter to Mrs. Vaffa Kinney the Guardian, through his assistant secretary, describes what is necessary to achieve success in teaching on the home front. At the request of the delegates at the National Convention the following excerpts from this letter are published for the guidance of all the friends:

“The cause of God is developing rapidly in the virgin areas of the Crusade; but on the home front we seem to be not so successful. No doubt this is due to the fact that the friends at home are not as diligently taking advantage of every teaching opportunity as the pioneers do in foreign lands.

“Success will crown the efforts of the friends on the home front when they meditate on the teachings, pray fervently for divine confirmations for their work, study the teachings so they may carry the spirit to the seeker, and then act,—and above all persevere in action. When these steps are followed, and the teaching work carried on sacrificially and with devoted enthusiasm, the Faith will spread rapidly.”

—NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY

Newly formed Local Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Yakima, Wash.

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“The Unseen Divine Assistance Encompasseth Those Who Deliver file Message”

Beloved Friends:

How can We generate in the Bahá’í Community of the United States the intention and the joy of increased service to the Faith? How can we develop the spirit of confirmation which has inspired so many pioneers to leave our country and settle in lands beyond the sea? Potentially this community is able to fulfill the largest share of tasks defined in the Ten Year Plan. Its mission is heroic, its destiny sublime.

The National Spiritual Assembly is profoundly concerned with the need to bring about a quickening of spirit among the local communities and groups, that we may not fail to attain the blessing which awaits our whole-hearted response. Therefore the communities and groups are urged and, indeed, called upon, to turn to the very source of the true spiritual life.

What is this source? The compilation entitled The Covenant and Administration, compiled for Conference Institutes, offers us an incomparable selection of the Sacred Writings in their essential and potent purity. This work is divided into three main parts: The Covenant, The Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, The Administrative Order of Bahá’u’lláh. This sequence of excerpts carries the believer from the Great Covenant of God, to the Station of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá as Center of Bahá’u’lláh’s Covenant with the Bahá’ís, to the Guardian’s references to the meaning of the Master’s Will and Testament, and thence to a spiritual concept of the Administrative Order and its wider implications for the community and the individual Bahá’í.

Let each Assembly and group plan to hold an institute on The Covenant and Administration early in this Bahá’í year, that the declared believers, one and all, may gather together for reading and discussion of this text. Unanimity of attendance is the goal to be set. The results which flowed from the holding of such institutes a few years ago were notable. Copies can be obtained from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust.

The National Spiritual Assembly will welcome reports from Assemblies and Area Teaching Committees on the conduct of this institute.

“The confirmation of the Kingdom of Abhá shall descend uninterrupted upon those souls who are firm in the Covenant.” “Today the stirring power that exhibits itself through all regions is the power of the Covenant which, like unto the artery, beats and pulsates in the body of the world.”

—NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY

18 NEW ASSEMBLIES FORMED; TOTAL NOW 189

Reports received up to May 15 indicate the formation of eighteen new local Spiritual Assemblies on April 21, 1956, although the jurisdiction of one is still in question. They are: Ketchikan and Tanana Valley in Alaska; Tempe, Arizona; Central Marin J,D., San Jose, and Riverside in California; Pueblo, Colorado; Stamford, Connecticut; Dade County, St. Petersburg and Tampa in Florida; Davenport, Iowa; Sparks, Nevada; Roswell, New Mexico; Urbana, Ohio; Eugene, Oregon; Provo, Utah; Yakima, Washington.

The following communities were restored to Assembly status: Yuma, Arizona: South Bay J.D., California; Limestone Township, Illinois; Kansas City, Missouri; Ridgewood, New Jersey; Toledo, Ohio.

Unfortunately fourteen communities lost their Assembly status, thus reducing the gain that would have raised the total number of local Spiritual Assemblies above the two hundred mark. Therefore, this is where we stand, provided the jurisdiction of the one community in question is upheld:

Assemblies elected

April 21, 1955 ............ 179

New Assemblies elected

April 21, 1956 ............ 18

Assemblies restored

April 21, 1956 ............ 6

Less Assemblies lost on

April 21, 1956 ............ 14

Total Assemblies as of

April 21, 1956 ............ 189

—NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY

ASSEMBLY REVIEWS PROGRESS IN PUBLIC RELATIONS CAMPAIGN

The following report covers activities from March 26 through April, 1956.

1. The Directors of the World Parliament of Religions have adopted a resolution expressing sympathy for the Bahá’ís in Írán and stating that the Parliament will do whatever it finds possible in Washington and at United Nations. A delegation plans to call on the Íránian Ambassador, some Senators, and to hold a press conference in Washington.

2. Another Senator has written the Secretary of State expressing concern about the persecutions.

3. The Washington Post on March 19 published an editorial about the persecutions, copies of which have been sent the Guardian and the other National Spiritual Assemblies.

4. A request has been received from the Managing Editor of Church and State Review, Washington, D.C., for a copy of the Appeal to United Nations, Bahá’í Appeal for Religious Freedom in Írán, and of the broadside representing international publicity.

5. Copies of The Oneness of Mankind have been sent to Bahá’í Press Service and the public relations counsel with request for widespread publicity.

6. Religious News Service, in its release of April 3, included material on the Hessar atrocities.

7. The Fellowship of Reconciliation, New York, has requested a copy of the broadside.

8. An AP release based on interviews with Mr. Haney and Mr. Kavelin is being extensively used by local papers.

9. The New York Sunday Times of April 29 published an extensive report from Ṭihrán reporting on the present situation affecting the Persian Bahá’ís.

10. A good contact has been made with a Sunday magazine, out of which may develop a human interest Bahá’í story.

—NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY

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Eskimo dancers from Nome, King Island, and Little Diomede Island, at a party given by the Anchorage, Alaska, Local Spiritual Assembly and the Northern People Teaching Committee, reported in the April “Bahá’í News”.

INTERCONTINENTAL COMMITTEES

BRUSSELS DEDICATION PROGRAMS DETAILED

The European Teaching Committee has received details of the dedication of the Brussels Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds, reported in the May issue of BAHÁ’Í NEWS.

The dedication of the Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds, located at 54 rue Stanley, Uccle-Brussels, Belgium, on April 1, proved to be an historic and inspirational occasion for all of the friends gathered there. Bahá’ís from Holland, Luxembourg, and from many cities in France joined in the joyous celebration.

A special program was planned for Bahá’ís only at 9:30 A.M., during which the spiritual atmosphere inspired an impression never to be forgotten.

At 11:00 A.M. the friends were joined by non-Bahá’ís, people of prominence in the city of Brussels, who seemed to he very much impressed by the beautiful spirit radiating from the believers, and permeating the atmosphere of the whole house.

In reporting the event the friends in Brussels said, “It was as the Master used to say ‘a house of happiness,’ ”

During the afternoon some special contacts were invited to the Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds. There was a talk by Prof. Zeine on “The Necessity of Spiritual Values in the World.”

In the evening a similar program was carried out. About 120 people were present for the whole day, with 80 present in the afternoon alone.

The dedication was the means of having the Cause televised for the first time in Belgium. One of the visiting guests was interviewed and allowed to speak openly on the Faith.

It is most confirming to see, in this dedication of one of the many Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds acquired recently, the attracting power and the vital function of this Bahá’í institution.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Australia, New Zealand

PURCHASE TEMPLE SITE NEAR SYDNEY

A Temple site on the Mona Vale road overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the wooded areas of Kuring-gai Chase has been purchased by the National Spiritual Assembly of Australia and New Zealand, it is reported in their Bahá’í’ Bulletin.

This replaces the site purchased two years ago for the same purpose, but which was requisitioned by the New South Wales Government for educational and town planning purposes.

The new site is situated at an altitude of 700 feet, and is slightly over seven acres in area. Purchase of a Temple site in Sydney is a goal of the Ten Year Plan.

Link With Holy Land

The Australian Bahá’í Bulletin also announces that two blocks of land on Mt. Carmel in the Holy Land have been transferred to the National Assembly of Australia and New Zealand.

This action followed the formal registration of the Israel Branch of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Australia and New Zealand in Haifa, Israel.

Mr. Leroy Ioas, Secretary-General of the International Bahá’í Council,

Local Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Geneva, Switzerland, on the occasion of its registration.

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has advised the Australian National Assembly that the two sections are a part of the gardens surrounding the Resting Places of the Greatest Holy Leaf and the Mother and Brother of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, as well as the gardens before the new International Archives Building. The area involved is approximately 1200 square meters of land.

Other National Assemblies establishing Israel Branches during the Ten Year Plan are British Isles, Canada, Egypt and Sudan, Germany and Austria, ‘Iráq and Persia.

Canada

SAMOAN GROUP ATTAINS A CRUSADE GOAL

Details of how the Bahá’í message has been translated into another language were published in the Bulletin of the New Territories Committee of the Canadian National Spiritual Assembly. The information is contained in a letter from Suhayl Ala’i, a pioneer in Samoa:

“You will no doubt be very happy to learn that on the last boat doing the round trip of the islands we received the completed translation of the pamphlet into the language of Niue, one of the goal languages of the Ten Year Plan, and it has already been forwarded to the Australasian N.S.A. so that it may arrive before Naw-Rúz.

“When the Australasian A.T.C. referred the translation to us as they were unable to find someone to do it, we thought the task well nigh impossible, as there are no believers or pioneers there, and there is no direct contact between Samoa and Niue. However, God works in mysterious ways. On his trip to New Zealand last year, Suhayl managed to discuss the matter with a non-Bahá’í friend who is a government official in Niue, and this friend promised to do what he could.

“We should mention here that Niue is a tiny island with perhaps three small stores. Not many hopes were held, seeing the wife of Suhayl’s friend has a father who is a minister, and she herself appears to be very strong in her church. The results of the help of this friend were that the official government translator did the job and the postmaster of Niue did the typing — so at least two Niueans have had the teachings by remote control, so to speak.

“We have been assured that the translation was the best that could be done and thus, although we do not seem to be able to teach much here, Bahá’u’lláh has used us to complete yet another part of the Ten Year Plan, and for this we are very grateful.”

Germany, Austria

ESCHBORN TEMPLE SITE HEARING DELAYED

The hearing before the German Court of Appeals on the purchase of the Temple site at Eschborn, scheduled for the middle of February, has been further delayed, according to Bahá’í Nachrichten, publication of the National Spiritual Assembly of Germany and Austria.

Consequently, there are no new developments in the purchase negotiations. “No stone is being left unturned to secure the promise of permission to purchase the site,” the Assembly states.

NATIONAL SECRETARIAT TO BE ESTABLISHED

Plans are now under consideration by the National Spiritual Assembly of Germany and Austria for the establishment of a permanent seat for the National Secretariat in the Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds at Frankfurt, Bahá’í Nachrichten reports.

This action followed the urging of the Guardian, through Leroy Ioas, to take this important step, now that the national Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds has been erected, and is able to serve as national headquarters.

A further problem confronting the Assembly is the appointment of a permanent Assistant Secretary. “The work of our community, internally and externally, has become so great and is constantly increasing in scope and importance, so that it is no longer possible for a single friend, even one who is able to give most of his personal life to the office, to take care of the work alone,” it was explained.

The National Assembly has called upon the German and Austrian friends for assistance in resolving this problem.

NATIONAL NEWS

RIVERSIDE REACHES ASSEMBLY STATUS

On April 21 of this year, almost two years after the first pioneers settled in this Goal City, the Bahá’ís of Riverside elected their first Local Spiritual Assembly.

The new Assembly is outstanding proof that when we act to serve the Faith, and remain steadfast despite obstacles, God will bring victory for His Cause.

For a year and a half, firesides, publicity and public meetings seemed to have little discernible effect, but in the four months before Riḍván, the Community grew steadily, until now there are fifteen Bahá’ís.

The future is even brighter, and soon Riverside may be able to send forth her own pioneers.

NAVAJO RESERVATION GROUP FORMED AT WINDOW ROCK

A meeting was held at Window Rock, Ariz., on March 17 to form the Navajo Reservation Group. All six members, (Mr, and Mrs. Camper, Mr. and Mrs. Gibson, and Mr. and Mrs. Ginnett) were present.

All election was held with the following results: Chairman, Mr. Amoz Gibson; Secretary, Mrs. Jean Ginnett.

In view of the fact of the great distance members of the group have to travel for a meeting, it was decided to plan to meet only once a month. If, however, something of importance arises, meetings will be held more often.

NEW YORK GIVES PROGRAM ON RACIAL INTEGRATION

The New York City Bahá’í Club presented a public discussion program on Negro-White race relations at the Bahá’í Center on May 4.

Guest speaker was Miss Manet Fowler, Lecturer in the Department of Anthropology at Barnard College. Her subject, “Problems of Race,” covered the social, practical, and spiritual aspects of southern racial integration.

Her co-speaker, representing the Bahá’í Faith, was Ben Kaufman, an instructor in Social Studies in the Bergen County, N.J., school system.

[Page 17]BAHA’I NEWS

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GREEN ACRE ’56

The following is the schedule of adult courses at Green Acre for the summer session of 1956. In addition to those listed below, there will be a course each week on “Fundamentals of the Bahá’í Faith.”

The first two weeks are especially planned for the interest of the youth. Youth intending to visit Green Acre are urged to come during this period.

A children’s School for children from five to fourteen will run continuously during the eight weeks of the summer school.

July 2-6

1. The Bahá’í and His Community

2. Youth and the World Crusade

3. How to Give a Bahá’í Talk

July 9-13

1. Bahá’í in Consultation.

2. The Covenant and the World Crusade

3. Co—ordination and Use of Bahá’í Literature

July 16-20

1. You and the World Crusade

2. Some Answered Questions

3. Islám

July 23-27

1. Consultation and the Covenant

2. World Order Letters of the Guardian

3. Teaching Problems in the World Crusade

July 30 -Aug. 3

1. Bahá’í Administration in Practice

2. Dawnbreakers and World Crusaders

3. Teaching the Individual

Aug. 6-10

1. Solving Community Problems

2. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá as Teacher

3. America’s Role in the World Crusade

Aug. 13-17 1. You, the Covenant and the World Crusade

2. The Kitáb-í-Íqán

3. How to give a Bahá’í Talk

Aug. 20-24

1. What is a Mature Bahá’í?

2. Faith and Prayer

3. Toward World Order

Make your reservations early — until June 29 write to

Mrs. Irene Miniutti, Manager

Elm Knoll Farm, Eliot, Maine

World Youth Day was observed in San Jose, Calif., with a picnic for the above group.

HOME, FRONT WORKER GAINS MANY CONTACTS

The lone Bahá’í in Evansville, Ind., Margaret McConaughy, has reported the various ways in which she has proclaimed the Faith where she lives. It could serve as an inspiration to many others in similar situations.

“We have here in Evansville a very difficult territory, but were, after long and laborious attempts, able to obtain an invitation from Rabbi Ryback to furnish a speaker at one of his series of religious forums. Mr. and Mrs. L. Paul Harris came to our assistance and furnished a very wonderful evening, having brought with them their slides of the Holy Land.

“In addition to this I received an invitation to speak to the local Unitarian Group one Sunday in December.

“We have encountered great difficulty in obtaining any publicity from the newspapers here regarding our commemorations, but I found that by writing a “Letter to the Editor” and signing my name, they will publish these.

“I was able to obtain permission to place a Bahá’í display in the Evansville Central Library window, which is on the ground floor and directly on a busy street, commemorating World Religion Day, and also advertising the Harris meeting.”

LOUHELEN

This 1956 summer session marks the 25th anniversary of the Louhelen Bahá’í school and several special events have been planned for this occasion.

We are privileged to have one of the teachers from the first session 25 years ago, Mr. Harlan Ober, teaching again this summer. A special anniversary week end is planned from July 29 through August 1, which was the actual opening day in 1931. Mr. Stanwood Cobb will be the special anniversary guest. The National Spiritual Assembly has granted the use of the name “Louhelen” during the anniversary year.

As before, children’s classes will be held for the period when parents will be in classes. At the request of the NSA, no special youth sessions will be held; however, Jr. Youth activities will be highlighted at General Session I; Sr. Youth at General Session VI. Counsellors will be provided at these times for the youth present.

A course in the World Crusade will be presented at each session. The schedule of classes is listed below:

General Session I—July 1-14

L.S.A. for a Day Bahá’í Heroes

General Session II — July 15-21

Kitáb-í-Íqán

The Guardian

Research for Bahá’í Talks

General Session III—July 22-28

Stories of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

“And Then There Were Nine”

General Session IV—July 29-Aug. 11

Progressive Revelation

Man’s Responsibility to God

General Session V — Aug. 12-18

Firesides and Deepening Classes

Bahá’í Revelation

General Session IV — Aug. 19-31

Progressive Revelation

Covenant and Administration

Choir

Homecoming — Sept. 1-3

Please make reservations early for this anniversary year. Address them to:

Registrar, Louhelen Bahá’í School

3203 S. State Rd.

Davison, Michigan

[Page 18]18

ARIZONA YOUTH MEET AT GIMLIN RANCH

The Bahá’í youth of Arizona were given the great bounty of holding their first youth conference at the Gimlin Ranch at Camp Verde, Arizona, on April 13, 14, and 15. Theme for the weekend was “Religion Is Life.”

Nestled in a green and peaceful valley, the Gimlin Ranch accommodated approximately 70 youths from Arizona and California.

While breathing the fresh air of western ranch life in the northern Arizona springtime, Bahá’í youth gained fresh energy and new ideas for teaching work, and demonstrated to their non-Bahá’í friends what the Bahá’í way of life really means.

Friday evening was devoted to getting acquainted and settled, and to enjoying the warmth of the love radiating from all directions. The boys were settled in the barn and the girls were tucked away inside the ranch house.

Saturday began with dawn prayers, a breakfast of blueberry pancakes, eggs, bacon, coffee—and further getting acquainted with late night and early morning arrivals. The greater part of Saturday was devoted to visits to historic Indian ruins of the region, with talks by the guides concerning Indian culture and religion, to pot-luck lunch and to siesta and recreation time.

A delicious and filling ranch supper, cooked over campfires, began

Naw-Ruz in Alhambra, Calif. Part of the group of 70 people from surrounding communities who gathered for dinner and the observance of the New Year.

WORLD CRUSADE BUDGET

Fourth Year — 1956 - 1957

Annual Budget ..........$500,000.00

Total Requirements

May 1-15 ............... 20,800.00

Total Contributions

May 1-15 ............... 20,125.00

—NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY

the conference proper. The evening social — consisting of skits and games, and singing around the campfire, followed by evening devotions — culminated the day.

Following dawn-prayers around crackling fires and steaming foods, came an always to be remembered chuck wagon breakfast.

Work shops on the Faith were made up of two main groups: “Social Standards for a New Day,” and “What Is the Bahá’í Faith?” The former was divided into “Marriage and Family Living,” and “What Shall Youth Live By?”; the latter into “Bahá’í History—The Lives of its Founders and its Progress Since 1844,” and “Bahá’í Administration— Application of the Faith in Today’s World.”

Camper’s lunch preceded the final discussion group, a panel discussion with a question-answer period entitled “Patterns for Future Society.” With the discussion ended, the youth co—operated in final cleanup and reluctantly climbed into the many cars for departure.

BAHÁ’Í IN THE NEWS

Jerusalem Post, December 29, 1955, presented an interview with Mayor Abba Khoushy of Haifa after his return from a visit to the United States. “Mr. Khoushy especially praised the American Bahá’í communities, whose representatives had welcomed him at every town of call. . . . The Bahá’ís told him that they considered themselves ‘citizens of Haifa’ which is their religious centre.”

Adventures in Paradise, by Willard Price, published by John Day Company, New York, has two pages concerning the Faith. Mr. Price spoke of meeting two Bahá’í pioneers on Rarotonga, and their influence led him to present some of the Bahá’í' teachings.

Ontariana, published monthly by the Y.M.C.A. of Ottawa, in its issue of January, 1956, has a drawing of the Temple and reprints the nine texts carved over the outside entrances, with excerpts from Basic Facts About the Bahá’í Faith. Quotations appear on two other pages.

International Non - Govermental Organizations by Lyman Cromwell White, Rutgers University Press, 1951, says of the Faith: “The Bahá’í Cause to awaken humanity to spiritual truths has attracted some attention. It is claimed that the founder, Bahá’u’lláh, laid the foundations of a new World Order giving a solution of racial, social and economic problems for this age.”

In God Will Work With You But Not For You by Lao Russell, published by Walter Russell Foundation, we find this reference: “Another modern mystic who has transformed millions of lives and turned their eyes to the Light is Bahá’u’lláh.”

Printers’ Ink will include World Religion Day in its 1957 list of dates of special events.

The Los Angeles Herald & Express, March 7, 1956, presented an article on a Festival of Faith to be held April 22, 1956 in Bridges Auditorium, Claremont, California. The Bahá’í Faith is represented in this meeting, which follows the model of the Festival of Faith held in San Francisco last year. Mr. Charles Wolcott’s photograph was run with the article as he was requested to act as Bahá’í representative.

[Page 19]BAHA’I NEWS

19

SPECIAL EVENTS FOR PROCLAIMING BAHÁ’Í FAITH TO THE PUBLIC

1956-1957

Martyrdom of the Báb

July 9, 1956

Proclamation Day

September 23, 1956

United Nations Day

October 24, 1956

Birthday of Bahá’u’lláh

November 12, 1956

Bahá’í State Conventions

• December 2, 1956

100th Anniversary of Birth of Woodrow Wilson

December 28, 1956

World Religion Day

January 20, 1957

World Brotherhood Week

February 17-23, 1957

Naw-Rúz (Bahá’í New Year)

March 21, 1957

Bahá’í National Convention

• April 25-28, 1957

Declaration of the Báb

May 23, 1957

To publicize developments at the Bahá’í World Center, and the significance of the martyrdom of the Báb and of His Shrine.

To proclaim America’s spiritual mission; to observe the anniversary of the Faith’s introduction to America.

To proclaim the spiritual basis on which the nations can unite for lasting world peace.

To proclaim the appearance of the Promised One of all religions as the hope of the world.

To publicize attendance, and progress of the Ten-Year Spiritual Crusade.

To honor the American president who was the world’s first statesman to express ideals closely akin to the Bahá’í principles for universal peace.

To proclaim the fundamental oneness of religion.

To proclaim the oneness of mankind.

To proclaim the renewal of religion and a new spiritual springtime.

To publicize delegate attendance, and progress of the Ten-Year Spiritual Crusade.

To proclaim the birth of a new Universal Cycle, and the fulfillment of prophecy.

SUGGESTED OCCASIONS FOR ADDITIONAL LOCAL PUBLICITY

Freedom Day, May 20, 1956

Memoria Day, May 30, 1956

Day of the Covenant, Nov. 26, 1956

United Nations Human Rights Day, Dec. 10, 1956

National Day of Prayer (To be proclaimed by the President)

Bahá’í World Youth Day, March 25, 1957

• Indicates Tentative Date

NATIONAL NEWS BRIEFS

A member of the Bahá’í interracial Teaching Committee, Mrs. Bessie Barham, participated in two programs at Washington, D.C. honoring Tomlinson Todd, Founder, Producer, Director, and Moderator of the Americans All radio program on station WOOK, on April 8. Prominent representatives of the Press, the Bar, and various civic organizations also spoke. The first program was broadcast over WOOK, the second was held at Tabor Presbyterian Church. The audiences were predominantly Negro.

A series of firesides on Progressive Revelation were given by the Stockton, Calif., community during March and April. The Christian, Muḥammadan, Bábi, and Bahá’í Faiths were represented, and several inquirers attended all sessions.

The Junior Youth Committee of the San Francisco, Calif., community arranged a special program during the Riḍván period for parents and children, to demonstrate the Bahá’í children’s class in action. There were exhibits of the work done, and friends were invited to observe the activities.

AREA NEWS BULLETINS

All goal cities in the Tennessee Valley States area have at least one settler or pioneer, and several have both, the Area Teaching Committee Bulletin reports. All groups in the area have been organized, and have been doing fine work in promulgation and firesides. In Louisville, Ky., the first Negro Bahá’í has been confirmed. The Nashville, Tenn., community conducts a most successful class for children, which is beginning to interest the parents. In Birmingham, Ala., the Faith has been widely proclaimed by public talks and association with other organizations. Many Bahá’í books have been placed in the main and branch libraries.

Following the National Convention, the Area Teaching Committee for the New England States scheduled convention report meetings in eight communities, according to their Area Bulletin. Cities represented include Providence, R.I., New Haven, Conn., Springfield and Boston, Mass., Brattleboro, Vt., Portsmouth, N.H., Portland and Eliot, Maine.

Santa Ana, Calif., has presented a series of six public meetings on the Nine Basic World Religions, the Bulletin for the Southwestern States Area Teaching Committee reports. A different speaker presided at each meeting, giving opportunity for concentrated preparation for each. As a follow-up to these meetings, a study course on God Passes By was presented. As many as 26 interested contacts were attracted to these offerings.

The South Central States Area Teaching Committee Bulletin has announced plans for a Conference at St. Louis, Mo., on June 16-17. Topeka, Kans., now has a Bahá’í Center at 630 Kansas Ave., Independence, Mo., reports continued response to their series of newspaper advertisements. Rogers, Ark.. has had good response to their series of radio programs. Charles Hornby has visited libraries in seven towns in Missouri and Kansas, and the Educational Director of the Missouri State Penitentiary at Jefferson City.

Charleston, W.Va., was host to a Central Atlantic States Area Conference on April 14, their Bulletin states. A member of the Baltimore, Md., Bahá’í community gave a talk before 80 youth, members of a Comparative

[Page 20]20

JUNE, 1956

Religion Class at the Temple School of the Baltimore Hebrew Congregation. The Baltimore community was also represented at a panel discussion on religion that included spokesmen for the Jewish, Catholic, and Protestant faiths, and the Ethical Society. The World Fellowship Committee of the Y.W.C.A. of Wilmington, Del., presented a talk by Mrs. Bula Mott Stewart in March. She showed color slides made while pioneering in Africa.

PUBLICATIONS

The Oneness of Mankind. Prepared by the National Spiritual Assembly. Since widespread publicity is planned for this official statement, local communities will find many uses for it. A statement by the National Assembly on the purpose of this single-page leaflet appears in May issue BAHÁ’Í NEWS.

8 copies (minimum order ..$ .25

100 copies ....................$2.50

The Covenant and Administration. Compiled from the Bahá’í Sacred Writings, from the letters and writings of the Guardian, and from statements approved by the Guardian, and arranged for use in conference institutes. The National Assembly is stressing the importance of community study based on this work.

Per copy ....................$ .75

(Reduced from $1.25)

Living Today For Tomorrow’s World. (A Junior’s Book of Religion.) By Marguerite True. The material covers the Prophets, the new laws for the nations and for the people of the world, and questions and answers (with spaces for additional comments), as contained in the previous edition of A Junior’s Book of Religion, with a few revisions. Illustrated with several drawings by Jean Hutchinson. This is a printed (not mimeographed) book, with colorful stiff paper cover. 24 pages.

Per copy .....................$ .75

Available from

BAHÁ’Í PUBLISHING TRUST

110 Linden Avenue

Wilmette, Illinois

BAHÁ’Í HOUSE OF WORSHIP

Visiting Hours

Weekdays:

10:30 A.M.—4:30 P.M.

7:00 P.M.—9:00 P.M.

Sundays and Holidays:

10:30 A.M.~9:00 P.M.

(Auditorium only will be open in the evenings)

Service of Worship

Sunday at 3:30 P.M., lasting until 4:15.

MARRIAGES

“Glory be unto Thee, O my God! Verily, this Thy servant and this Thy maid-servant have gathered under the shadow of Thy mercy and they on united through Thy favor and generosity. O Lord! Assist them in this Thy world and Thy Kingdom and destine for them every good through Thy bounty and grace . . .”

—BAHÁ’U’LLÁH

Berkeley, California: Miss Celestine Dean to Mr. Frederick Whittaker, on March 11, 1956.

Ann Arbor, Michigan: Miss Joy Suzanne Faily to Mr. Richard H. Benson on April 8, 1956.

Wilmette, Illinois: Miss Helen Lucille Hathorn to Mr. Ronald Lee Hauck on April 21, 1956.

Chicago, Illinois: Miss Rosemary Tweedy to Mr. Claude W. Hunter on May 6, 1956.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

FEASTS

June 5—Núr (Light)

June 24-Rahmat (Mercy)

NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY MEETING

June 15, 16, 17

IN MEMORIAM

“Death proffereth unto every confldent believer the cup that is life indeed. It bestowtrh joy, and is the bearer of gladness. It conferreth the gift of everlasting life.”

—BAHÁ’U’LLÁH

Mrs. Amelie W. Bodmer

Pasadena, California

May 17, 1955

Mrs. Ellen Watson

Seattle, Washington

Date not reported

Mr. David Siegal

Bronx, New York

January 8, 1956

Mr. Robert Christensen

Chicago, Illinois

March 18, 1956

Mrs. Helen C. Green

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

March 31, 1956

Miss Laura Harris

New York, New York

April 15, 1956

Mr. Samuel Tucker

New York, New York

April 18, 1956

Mrs. Elizabeth Houze

Brooklyn 33, New York

April 19, l956

Mrs. Mary Denney

Quincy, Illinois

April 20, 1956

Mrs. Arny Esther Bodwell

Portland, Oregon

April 28, 1958

BAHA’I NEWS is published by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States as a news organ reporting current activities of the Bahá’í World Community

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. Material is due in Wilmette on the first day of the month preceding the date of issue for which it is intended.

BAHA’I NEWS is edited by an annually appointed Editorial Committee. The Committee for 1956-57: Mrs. Eunice Braun, Miss Charlotte Linfoot, Mr. Richard C. Thomas.

Editorial Office: 110 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois. U.S.A.

Change of address should be reported directly to National Bahá’í Office, ll2 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois, U.S.A.