Bahá’í News/Issue 42/Text
The National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is
of the United States and Canada
O ye servants of the Merciful One! Arise to serve the Cause of God, in such wise that cares and sorrows caused by them that have disbelieved in the Dayspring of the Signs of God may not afflict you. At the time when the Promise was fulfilled and the Promised One made manifest, differences have appeared amongst the kindred of the earth and each people hath followed its own fancy and idle imaginings.—BAHÁ’U’LLÁH.
BAHA’I ANNIVERSARIES AND NINETEEN-DAY FEASTS[edit]
The question is frequently raised whether Nineteen-Day Feasts and Anniversary Celebrations noted on the Bahá’í calendar should be regarded as occasions limited to believers or open to non-Bahá’í guests. The matter was referred to Shoghi Effendi by the National Assembly before the Convention, to have the question answered for us all in such a way as to reflect truest wisdom and knowledge. The Guardian’s reply placed the decision, for the present at least, in the members of the National Assembly.
After consultation, the Assembly recorded its view that Bahá’í Feasts and Anniversaries should be regarded as opportunities for spiritual inspiration and fellowship among the believers, and occasions to be kept sacred for the Cause, but in recording this attitude did not lay it down as a formal ruling to bind the American friends. Each local Spiritual Assembly is free to conduct these meetings in accordance with its own conditions and needs.
It is evident, of course, that a religious community needs certain occasions free from influence by prevailing customs and opinions, when its collective spirit and will may be confirmed from the one acknowledged source of guidance and power. All Bahá’ís are in need of such blessed hours shared with fellow believers, for the development of the inner life within the community which can survive and serve the Cause only as it becomes one in Bahá’u’lláh.
Appreciating the value of the influence released upon inquirers permitted to attend such Bahá’í gatherings, the National Assembly nevertheless believes that the same effect can be gained by occasional meetings of a combined spiritual and social character, held in addition to those marked upon the calendar of the Cause.
A CORRECTION[edit]
During April the National Assembly issued to all American believers a copy of the letter from Shoghi Effendi dated March 21, 1930, and addressed to “The beloved of the Lord and the handmaids of the Merciful throughout the West.” This was published in pamphlet form, with the title “The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh: Further Considerations,” following the action taken by the Assembly in 1929 when a previous letter from the Guardian was published in the same form. Both pamphlets were designed to accompany the book entitled “Bahá’í Administration.”
A printer’s error, made after final proofs had been correctly read, should be marked by the friends in their copies, that the text when read and studied may stand as in the Guardian’s original communications.
In the letter dated March 21, 1930, page four, one line is repeated. In place of the repeated line, read: “far-reaching for this generation to grasp and fully appreciate. I”.
In the letter published in 1929, page 3, for “representations” read “representatives”.
LOWER TEMPLE CONSTRUCTION COSTS[edit]
The sum of $400,000 was fixed as the objective of the three-year Plan for Unified Action because this amount had been estimated as the cost of building the first story of the permanent structure. This year, when the Fund had been completed, it was pointed out by Research Service, Inc., that with the same amount the entire structure, except the external decoration, could be raised.
More recently, Research Service, Inc., have reported to the Temple Trustees that the estimate can be lowered considerably by slight modifications in the Temple plans, which are entirely acceptable to Mr. Bourgeois, architect.
The Trustees therefore are happy to inform the friends that due to this saving, made possible by the careful analysis of the plans carried out by Research Service, Inc., the cost of all the services to be rendered by that body under its present contract has practically been saved. That is, the economics already effected almost equal the amount payable to them under their contract with the Trustees published in the “Mashriqu’l-Adhkár Number” of the NEWS LETTER.
WELL KNOWN FEATURE WRITER TO PREPARE ARTICLES ON CAUSE[edit]
An arrangement has been made by the National Assembly by which Mr. George T. Odell, of Newspaper Information Service, Washington, D, C., has been retained to prepare a number of special articles about the Cause for the magazine and special feature departments of leading newspapers.
These articles, appearing as the Temple construction proceeds, will carry the tremendous interest aroused by that important event and thus vastly extend our combined teaching efforts this year. The friends will be kept informed of all details through BAHÁ’Í NEWS.
The Assembly is also considering means for a general Bahá’í publicity service coordinating all local Assemblies and groups in one national plan, one purpose of which is to train believers in every community to add the necessary “local interest” to articles and stories reflecting the national and international activities of the Cause.
Lament not in your hours of trial, neither rejoice therein; seek ye the Middle Way, which is the remembrance of Me in your afflictions and reflections over that which may befall you in future. Thus informed you, He Who is the Omniscient, He Who is Aware.—BAHÁ’U’LLÁH.
ILLUMINED SIGN TO BE PLACED ON TEMPLE GROUNDS[edit]
A special committee is working upon a plan to erect a large outdoor sign upon the Temple grounds at Wilmette, that those passing along the great highway may learn the purpose of the Bahá’í Temple and the aim of the Cause. As construction proceeds in the near future, thousands of people daily will thus become acquainted with the Cause and be prepared to understand something of the significance of the completed Mashriqu’l-Adhkár.
COMMITTEES OF THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY 1930-1931[edit]
In announcing committee appointments for the current Bahá’í year, the National Assembly feels that it will be helpful to us all to consider again some of the statements made about committees by the Guardian in his general communications.
“Large issues in such spiritual activities that affect the Cause in general in that land, such as the management of the ‘Star of the West,’ and any periodical which the National Body may decide to be a Bahá’í organ, the matter of publication, of reprinting Bahá’í literature and its distribution among the various assemblies, the means whereby the teaching campaign may be stimulated and maintained, the work of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár, the racial question in relation to the Cause, the matter of receiving Orientals and association with them, the care and maintenance of the precious film exhibiting a phase of the Master’s sojourn in the United States of America as well as the original matrix and the records of His voice, and various other national spiritual activities, far from being under the exclusive jurisdiction of any local assembly or group of friends, must each be minutely and fully directed by a special board, elected by the National Body, constituted as a committee thereof, responsible to it and upon which the National Body shall exercise constant and general supervision.”—March 5, 1922.
“I would welcome more specific reports sent to me by the various committees of the National Spiritual Assembly, enclosed with the National Assembly’s letter, and approved by its members.”—April 9, 1923.
“As it has been observed already, the role of these committees set up by the National Spiritual Assembly, the renewal, the membership and functions of which should be reconsidered separately each year by the incoming National Assembly, is chiefly to make thorough and expert study of the issue entrusted to their charge, advise by their reports, and assist in the execution of the decisions which in vital matters are to be exclusively and directly rendered by the National Assembly. . . . The absorption of the petty details of Bahá’í administration of the personnel of the National Spiritual Assembly is manifestly injurious to efficiency and an expert discharge of Bahá’í duties, whilst the granting of undue discretion, to bodies that should be regarded in no other light than that of expert advisers and executive assistants would jeopardize the very vital and pervading powers that are the sacred prerogatives of bodies that in time will evolve into Bahá’í National Houses of Justice.”—October 18, 1927.
Archives Committee
Mrs. E. D. Struven, Mrs. A. F. Matthisen, Miss Gertrude Buikema.
Bahá’í Magazine
(Editorial Staff)
Mr. Stanwood Cobb, editor; Mrs. Mariam Haney, Mrs. Allen McDaniel, associate editors.
Green Acre Program
Mrs. Allen McDaniel, chairman; Mrs. Edith Inglis, Mrs. Henry Green, Mrs. W. H. Coristine, Mr. Louis Gregory.
Teaching*
(Including Inter-racial Amity)
Mr. Reginald Collision, chairman; Mrs. Doris McKay, secretary; Dr. Albert D. Heist, Mrs. May Maxwell, Mr. Louis Gregory, secretary for amity activities.
Publishing
Mr. Horace Holley, chairman; Mrs. Marion Little, secretary; Mrs. Loulie Mathews, Miss Bertha Herklotz, Mrs. Marie Moore, Mr. Roy C. Wilhelm, Mrs. C. Wood.
Legal
Mr. Horace Holley, chairman; Mr. Louis Gregory, Mr. Allen B. McDaniel, Mr. Siegfried Schopflocher, Mr. Carl Scheffler.
________
- The Teaching Committee to arrange for a
subcommittee to conduct activities on the Pacific Coast.
Library
Mr. Charles Mason Remey, Chairman; Miss Elizabeth Hopper, Mrs. Amelia Collins.
Pacific Coast Summer Community
Mr. John Bosch, chairman; Mr. Leroy Ioas, Mr. George Latimer.
Reviewing
Mr. Bishop Brown, Mrs. Doris Holley, Mrs. Marjorie Morten.
Temple Program
Mr. Willis Hilpert, chairman; Mrs. Shelley Parker, secretary; Mrs. Sarah Walrath, treasurer; Dr. W. F. Slater, Mrs. Elizabeth Nourse, Mrs. Bahiyyih Lindstrom.
Research
Dr. Frank D. Clark, chairman; Mrs. Frank D. Clank, secretary; Mrs. Mary Rabb, Mrs. R. V. Winterburn.
Thornton Chase Memorial
Mr. Willard P. Hatch, Mr. John Bosch.
Year Book
(For preparation of material for volume three of The Bahá’í World, covering the period 1930-1932.)
Mrs. Nellie S. French, chairman; Mr. Albert Windust, secretary; Mrs. Wanden LaFarge, Mr. Horace Holley.
Editing Tablets of ’Abdu’l-Bahá
Mrs. Corinne True,
Note: Appointments of additional committees or any changes in the membership of present committees will be reported in BAHÁ’Í NEWS.
TWO SIGNIFICANT LOCAL MEETINGS[edit]
At Evergreen Cabin, West Englewood, New Jersey, will be held on Saturday, June 28, the Nineteenth Annual Meeting to commemorate the Unity Feast held in the adjoining grove by ’Abdu’l-Bahá during 1912. This meeting has been faithfully observed for a period of time only a few years less than the existence of the Annual Convention of American Bahá’ís. It has formed a direct link with one of the most significant actions carried out by the Master in relation to the believers while on this continent. Gradually the interest has extended until at present many Bahá’í communities are represented and a large number of inquirers also attend.
The program this year will include addresses on Constructive Principles of the New Age, by Mrs. Florence Morton, Mr. Louis Gregory, Mr. Horace Holley, Mr. Allen B. McDaniel and Mr. Mountfort Mills.
Another local meeting observed annually is the delightful Blossom Picnic, at Geneva, New York. It was observed for the fifth time on May 17 and 18 at the McKay farm.
Unfortunately an unusual spell of extremely hot weather had opened the blossoms earlier than expected, so they were gone at the actual picnic time. Despite their absence a large number gathered for the two day event, and mingled together in joy and fragrance. The Binghamton Community was joint host with the Geneva group to the largest crowd which has attended one of these picnics so far. On Saturday there were about one hundred thirty people present, and on Sunday more than one hundred.
Racial Amity has become the keynote of the picnic on the last two occasions. This year, many colored friends came from Rochester, where Miss Elizabeth Brooks has been striving so untiringly in this direction. The friends were also privileged by the attendance of Mr. Hubert, Executive Secretary of the Urban League of New York. After the supper on Saturday all gathered to listen to an exchange of greetings and to hear inspiring talks from Mrs. Grace Ober, Mr. Louis Gregory and others. Greetings were brought from Binghamton, Rochester, Syracuse, Buffalo, Ithaca, New York; Detroit, Mich.; DuBois and Pittsburgh, Pa., and Portsmouth, N. H.
Sunday morning the crowd separated into groups, one of which was composed of young people, about forty in all. Pilau was served at noon out on the farm, so all were brought together again for the afternoon and final meeting. At this gathering inspiring words from various believers were intermingled with appropriate music and singing.
Besides the white and colored friends, there were also present a number of foreign students from Cornell. Some were from China, others from India and still another from Mesopotamia. The different religions and faiths represented at this picnic were Hindus, Mohammedans, followers of Lao-tze, Mormons, Catholics and other Christian denominations. The atmosphere during the whole weekend was definitely cosmopolitan, with the added effect of being very united in spiritual thoughts and ideals. The happiness with which the picnic ended and the sincere expressions of interest on the part of many just attracted to the Cause gave one a glimpse of the universal attitude of the future.
O ye men of Justice! Be ye in the realm of God shepherds unto His sheep, and guard them from the ravening wolves that have appeared in disguise, even as you would guard your own sons. Thus exhorteth you the Counsellor, the Faithful.—BAHÁ’U’LLÁH.
THE TRAVELLER’S NARRATIVE TO PUBLISHED JULY FIRST[edit]
An American edition of “The Traveller’s Narrative: The Episode of the Báb,” the famous work of the early history of the Cause, is announced by the Publishing Committee.
This book represents an English translation by the late Prof. Browne of Cambridge University of the manuscript given him while visiting Akka to see Bahá’u’lláh. The manuscript is known to be reliable and authentic, and Prof. Browne’s translation has long been regarded as the most perfect Bahá’í text in the English language, excepting the Hidden Words and other writings lately translated by Shoghi Effendi.
The American edition appears with the approval of the Guardian. In accordance with his instructions, a preface has been added by the National Assembly pointing out the historical inaccuracy of some of Prof. Browne’s notes.
Possession of this book has been extremely limited, because the Cambridge edition was sold out many years ago. It is one of the most inspiring works which we have, revealing the conditions under which the Báb opened the “door” for the Manifestation of Bahá’u’lláh in this world, yielding up his blessed life on July 9, 1850. The price of the American edition is $2.50.
MODERN HISTORIAN RECOGNIZES GREATNESS OF THE BAB[edit]
Excerpts from A History of Nationalism in the East, by Hans Kohn, New York, 1929.
The question which divides Shiites and Sunnites concerns the Caliphate, Mohammed’s succession. The Shiites believe that Ali, the Prophet’s cousin and son-in-law, were his sole true successor, and that the office of Caliph is hereditary in his house. When Ali, who was the fourth Caliph, died and the Ommiades became Caliphs, the Shiites continued to believe that Ali’s descendants were the chosen successors of the Prophet. At the same time they believed that the Caliph was not merely an earthly chief, as the Sunnites held, but also a spiritual head, an incarnation of the Holy Spirit, a leader of the faithful alike in spiritual and worldly matters. The largest sect of Shiites believes that there have been twelve such Caliphs or Imams. A further explanation of the Persians faithful adherence to the house of Ali may be that, according to popular legend, Ali’s second son El-Husain married a daughter of the last Sassanide king, Yazdigrid III, thus allying his house with the last Persian national dynasty before the country was subdued by the Arabs. The twelfth and last descendant of Ali in the line of Imams or incarnations of the Holy Spirit, which descended upon each generation in unbroken succession, had succeeded his father in 873 and disappeared finally in 941 after a life of retirement. It is said, however, that he is not dead, but lives in a secret city and will return some day as the Messiah, the Imam Mahdi. During his life of retirement the twelfth Imam communicated with the faithful through a mediator, the Báb, the “gate of revelation” from the leader to his followers. But with the final disappearance of the twelfth Imam this communication also ceased. The Shiites were left without a visible head, but they awaited the return of a visible incarnation of the Holy Spirit.
Thus, public life as a whole was permeated with spiritual influence in a State which was merely a temporary expedient, pending the development of a complete theocracy under the legitimate
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Address for Correspondence News Editor Office of the Secretariat Evergreen Cabin West Englewood, New Jersey BAHÁ’I News is the official organ of the American National Spiritual Assembly. Its cost is defrayed from the National Bahá’i Fund and copies are distributed free of charge to recognized believers throughout the United States and Canada, and to National and Local Spiritual Assemblies in other lands. News articles and reports of general Bahá’i interest and value are requested from Assemblies, National Committees and other representatives of the Cause. The Guardian’s statement concerning the purpose and scope of this publication can be found in the volume entitled “Bahá’i Administration.” |
Imam, and this resulted in giving immense power of the clergy, especially the Mujtahids, the learned students of the sacred law. At the beginning of the nineteenth century, this dominance of a religious caste acted like a powerful brake, checking all possibility of freer intellectual and political development for the people. Here, too, as in all other countries, Islam had fallen into utter paralysis and corruption. It was the Bábist movement which roused it from its torpor about the middle of the nineteenth century, shook the power of the Shiite Mujtahids, and helped to awaken modern Persia and create the first beginnings of intellectual freedom . . .
At the outset Bábism was conservative and riddled with a mass of mystical theology and dogma, such as only the favorable soil of Shiite Persia could produce. But even at this stage it stood for the principle of religious evolution, the denial of the finality of revelation, and in the schisms which arose in its subsequent history the victory always went to the non-stationary party which stood for continued revelation and was thus constantly developing towards liberal and humanistic tendencies. Bábism was at first wholly confined to Islam, but as it evolved it overstepped the bounds of Islam and sought itself to become a world-religion, unrestricted by any national or linguistic tradition.
BUILDING UPON THE SUCCESS OF THE PLAN FOR UNIFIED ACTION[edit]
The Plan for Unified Action terminated with the completion of the Temple Fund in $400,000. The delegates present at the recent Convention requested the National Assembly to adopt another plan, or financial policy, to insure the steady continuance of Temple construction and maintain unimpaired the other activities of the Cause.
It is clear by now that the Plan for Unified Action was adopted as an emergency measure and reflected conditions that existed four years ago. The institution of the National Bahá’í Fund as part of the functions of a National Spiritual Assembly, actually suffices for every legitimate financial need arising in the Cause, did we but understand thoroughly what this institution means.
Studying afresh, in the light of the Will and Testament, the numerous references which the Guardian has made to the National as well as local Funds, we can begin to realize more deeply than was possible even a few years ago how inseparably are spiritual and material affairs joined together in the divine texture of this Religion. Our devotion, if it be truly sincere and complete, can not stop short at the point of repeating the prayers, attending the meetings or giving the message. Bahá’i loyalty embraces the whole of life, for the Bahá’i movement has been revealed in order to overcome the false divisions and oppositions of interest in the world and renew the unified vision of reality which is the soul of civilization.
As worldly institutions disintegrate under the pressure of truth, we believers are called upon to conduct our lives and affairs according to the new standard revealed by Bahá’u’lláh. One of the greatest problems of this transitional age is the use of money. By upholding the national and local Bahá’í Funds in the true spirit, we prove that this problem too has its sole solution in the Bahá’í teachings.
What is the Bahá’í Fund? From one aspect, it is the measure of our devotion and sacrifice. It should not operate by a succession of “drives” and “campaigns,” but proceed steadily from year to year, at first a small stream, but eventually a mighty worldwide currency, the material life-blood of civilization under the Most Great Peace. When the Universal House of Justice is established, the new economic science based on love and justice will be more apparent than now. But later on, millions of people will appreciate the power of the Cause—the time when effort and understanding really count is now.
The ideal seems to be that we should contribute regularly and to the degree of our individual capacity, ordering our lives so that the needs of the Cause are considered as much a part of our own living expenses as food and rent. Occasional bursts of generosity under enthusiasm for some particular activity are far less effective than steady, periodic giving based on a carefully thought out plum of life.
These considerations are vitally important this year, in view of many unusual economic conditions which are becoming more and more apparent. The conflict between “capitalism” and “communism” separates people into opposing camps, obscures the spiritual reality of human existence and attacks the very foundations of international society. Amid this terrible strife, how wonderful for the Bahá’ís to proceed calmly and peacefully, yet with vigorous determination, to develop the power of local, national and International Assemblies as sources of spiritual government able to safeguard the “community of the Greatest Name!” Until we understand the Bahá’í Fund as an organ of power and influence essential to a Spiritual Assembly, we fail to perceive the majestic truths which the Guardian has given us in his explanation of the “World Order of Bahá’u’lláh.”
Practical details are the steps by which we arrive at stations of knowledge and power.
By January first, 1931, the present Temple Fund will have been expended in the construction of the permanent walls and dome. At that time the Cause will be blessed with a truly inspiring and impressive edifice, one capable of conveying a mighty influence as a symbol of the revelation. But it will be an edifice far from complete or fully able to serve mankind. There remains the external decoration, then the interior decoration, and finally the accessory buildings and landscaping of the grounds.
The National Assembly considers it necessary and possible to adopt as the standard of financial effort a fund of $100,000 for further Temple construction, this amount to be raised between now and the date of the next Annual Convention. In presenting this goal, and also the current budget given below, the Assembly recognizes the difficulties faced by the friends, but relies upon the extraordinary development in the spirit of unity and capacity for action which has been attained by the great sacrifices already made.
Budget of the National Assembly 1930-1931
| Archives | $ 20.00 | ||
| Magazine | 3,840.00 | ||
| Green Acre | 4,000.00 | ||
| Teaching | 8,000.00 | ||
| Legal | 500.00 | ||
| Library | 100.00 | ||
| Pacific Coast Summer School | 250.00 | ||
| Temple Program | 100.00 | ||
| Publicity | 2,500.00 | ||
| International | 2,680.00 | ||
| Administrative | 8,500.00 | ||
| Year Book | 1,500.00 | ||
| Temple Maintenance | 4,000.00 |
“We must be like the fountain that
is continually emptying itself of all
that it has and is continually being
refilled from an invisible source. To
be continually giving out for the good
of our fellows undeterred by fear of
poverty and reliant on the unfailing
Bounty of the Source of all wealth—this
is the secret of right living.”—
Shoghi Effendi.
They that are endowed with wealth should turn towards the poor; for great in the sight of God is the merit of the patient among the poor; verily, verily, it excelleth all things save that which the Lord willeth. Happy is the poor that waiteth patiently and murmureth not and happy the rich that giveth freely and prefereth others unto himself. Please God, the poor will strive to work and earn their livelihood; for this is enjoined upon every one in this most great Dispensation. Whosoever followeth this command serveth in the sight of God the common weal, and will assuredly receive the invisible assistance. He, verily enricheth whomsoever He willeth with His grace, and He is powerful over all things. . . .—BAHÁ’U’LLÁH
WRITING FOR THE BLIND[edit]
If there are those among the believers who are unable to serve the cause by speaking in public, or by taking an active part in other ways because of certain limitations, it is suggested that they might like to know something of the method of transcribing the Teachings into “Braille” which is the system of writing for the blind. This writing is done by the use of a very simple device and while somewhat laborious, the joy of transcribing the Creative Word is unequaled.
For “shut-ins” this method of serving is especially recommended and any who are desirous of knowing something about the necessary steps to be taken may write to Mrs. Nellie S. French, 501 Bellefontaine St., Pasadena, California.
NEWS FROM THE SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF BEIRUT[edit]
The National Spiritual Assembly has received from the Secretary of the Spiritual Assembly of Beirut a most interesting and enlightening letter relative to the work of the Bahá’í students at the American University there. This group of devoted and enthusiastic young men and women, some sixty-three in number, constitute the majority of the believers of the city. They have formulated a program for the study of the Word and the correlation of their intellectual and spiritual education which is a model of wisdom and virtue and which might well be emulated by every educational institution in the world.
The great ambition of these young friends now is to own a house of their own where they may be able to hold their meetings and invite visitors, as Beirut is one of the most important educational centers of the world. The Guardian, Shoghi Effendi, particularly expressed his hope that a house may soon be procured, and that there may be placed in it a beautiful and complete collection of Bahá’í literature. To this end the friends are asking that any who can will send contributions of books or pamphlets so that the much needed library may increase in size and usefulness.
According to the instructions of the beloved Guardian a committee has been appointed which is now working on the Persian translation of Dr. Esslemont’s “Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era,” a work which is awaited with great eagerness by the friends of Persia.
Any books may be sent in care of the secretary: Mr. Z. Ghorban, A.U.B.; Beirut, Syria.
THE PASSING OF FREEMAN H. WEVER[edit]
The friends in California are mourning the loss of a loving and devoted servant to the Holy Cause through the passing of Freeman H. Wever, who, with his family, has been living in Glendale, for the past two years, and before that was identified with the Assembly in Visalia.
Sincere and eager to promulgate the Word, he and his wife and four children have studied and labored unceasingly, and during the last long and trying days his one desire was to be spared that he might serve more fully. May God grant him every bounty in the unseen world!
AN ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE PUBLISHING COMMITTEE[edit]
In order that all those interested may have a complete library of the best Bahá’í books, the Publications Committee is extending to its readers a special offer of 15% discount from the list price. Orders must be sent in direct to
- Bahá’í Publishing Committee,
P. O. Box 348, Grand Central Station,
- New York City
This offer holds good from July 1st to September 1st, 1930, for the following titles:
| 1925 | List Price | ||
| Bahá’í World | $2.50 | ||
| Bahá’í Revelation | 2.00 | ||
| Bahá’í Proofs | 2.00 | ||
| Book of Assurance | 2.00 | ||
| Bahá’í Scriptures | 2.50 |
In sending orders for any of the above,
15% may be deducted from the list
price if sent in previous to September
1, 1930.
The Committee also wishes to bring to the attention of its readers, that the price of the book “Whence Comes the Light” has been reduced to 25c. We wish to recommend this little book as most valuable to give to those interested in the Teachings. It gives a brief but complete outline of the Cause; its principles and history. It also contains splendid and helpful quotations from the Bahá’í writings.
The price of “Bahá’í Prayers” bound in blue cloth heretofore sold for $1.00, has been reduced to .75c.
The Committee announces that it has copies of the NEWS LETTER, Nos. 1 to 40 with the following exceptions: Nos. 21, 22, 23 and 31. These are available at .10c each while they last. They should be most valuable to own for reference and for historical interest.
CIRCULAR LETTER FROM NEW YORK ASSEMBLY[edit]
The believers of New York City are profoundly impressed by the accomplishments revealed during the recent convention, and above all by the transforming influence which the construction of the Temple brings to the Cause in America. We feel that our own insignificant number and feeble resources have, through the Temple, been reinforced by the conquering hosts of Bahá’u’lláh. We realize, and fully appreciate, how the same inspiration is uplifting the believers in other cities, and we join with them in a renewal of effort and a deepening of our responsibility as representatives of the Cause.
Each Bahá’í community of the world, as an element in the great body of the Cause, has a providential nature and a unique possibility of service. Pondering again the Tablets revealed by ’Abdu’l-Bahá for the believers of New York, and the Words uttered by Him while residing in this city so many months during 1912, we are reminded of His many hopes that a unified Bahá’í community in His “City of the Covenant” might contribute to the unity of the Cause throughout the land.
As the Master declared, New York
is a city frequently visited by believers
from other communities both in this
country and abroad. To all Bahá’ís
planning to come here during the ensuing
year, especially for the purpose
of rendering Bahá’í service, the local
Spiritual Assembly extends heart-felt
welcome and spiritual gratitude. We
[Page 6]
invite, and request, such believers to
consult directly with the Assembly as
soon as possible after their arrival, in
order that their Bahá’í activities may
be fruitful and the local Bahá’í community
blessed and strengthened by
their cooperation.
We are well aware of the fact that conditions in New York have aroused comment among believers in other cities and indeed have been questioned on the floor of the convention. Our only comment at this time is that novel and unexpected situations must continually arise in this Cause, especially in large and important centers, but no incident can ever really challenge or change the permanent structure of Bahá’í unity as given all believers in the general letters of Shoghi Effendi. Through the divine law of consultation, all doubts will be turned into assurance and all inexperience gradually transmuted into spiritual wisdom and loyalty. If we constantly bear this in mind, we will always be in a position spiritually to fulfill what the Guardian hopes for us, as indicated in the following cable:
“May newly elected Assembly guard integrity of Faith, preserve its unity, vindicate its purpose. Love.—Shoghi.”
Yours in loving cooperation with the National Assembly,
Spiritual Assembly of The Bahá’ís of New York City.
June 5, 1930
NEWS FROM HAIFA[edit]
We take pleasure again in sharing with our friends throughout the world such news as might be of interest to them in their endeavors for the progress of the Bahá’í Faith.
The news from Persia is full of hope and encouragement, The liberal outlook for the Government has reassured the Bahá’ís and with such measure of safety and freedom as they did not know before, they are actively engaged in the establishment of the Faith upon a firm basis and laying the foundation of Bahá’í institutions which will in future govern the followers of the Faith. The National Assembly at Tihran has already taken measures to arrange the proper registration of Bahá’í marriages in the books of the local Spiritual Assemblies and that both cases of marriage and divorce should be carried out according to the laws of the Aqdás. Both in certificates of citizenship within Persia and in passports for those who wished to travel, the Government had insisted in the past on labeling the Bahá’ís as Muhammedans. Although they have made clear their belief in Muhammad in accordance with the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh, they have vigorously objected to being called anything but Bahá’ís and finally last year in consequence of the most energetic and capable efforts of the National Assembly aided by the steadfast attitude of those friends who refused certificates of registration or passports unless they were officially recognized as Bahá’ís, the Government has finally decided that henceforth no mention of the bearer’s religion should be mentioned in such papers.
The friends in Haifa have had the pleasure of meeting our untiring and zealous international Bahá’í teacher, Miss Martha Root. She was on her way to Iraq, Persia, India and the Far East. News has already reached us of her success in Baghdad and the deep enthusiasm she has aroused among all the friends she has met. To enter Bahá’u’lláh’s native land and lift the torch she has already carried around the world must in many ways be the crown of her many travels and we shall pray for her success.
The friends throughout the world will be very much interested to know that in accordance with the Master’s prearranged wish and plans, Shoghi Effendi has directed the construction of three more rooms to the southern side of the Shrine of Mt. Carmel, making a total of nine and with the tomb of the Báb exactly in the middle. In a few months we hope the building will be complete. But what is of still more joy is that the Mansion of Bahá’u’lláh at Bahji which was for forty years in the hands of the Master’s enemies and Covenant-breakers has been finally evacuated by them and the Bahá’ís are free again to visit the room in which Bahá’u’lláh spent His last days and to drink deep from that feeling of nearness and communion with Him which seems to pervade the entire place. As the building is almost in ruins, Shoghi Effendi is taking great care and devoting much attention to its restoration in exactly the same manner as it was in His lifetime.
The Guardian who was rather unwell lately has completely recovered and is again engaged in the great work he shoulders.
The Master’s family as well as the friends here join in greetings and good wishes to you all.
PROGRAM OF MEETINGS LONDON, ENGLAND[edit]
Walmar House, 288, Upper Regent
- Street. W. l.
(Entrance in Great Castle Street, 4th
- floor lift.)
- Near Oxford Circus
Wednesday, May 14, 8 p. m.
- Subject: Feasting and Fasting.
- Speaker: Miss Evelyn Baxter.
Wednesday, May 21, 8 p. m.
- Subject: Development for the
- World Peace Conference
- of Religions.
- Speaker: Mr. Paul H. Steele, M. A.
- Secretary, World Conference
- for International
- Peace through Religion.
Chairman: Mrs. Florence George—
- the Bahá’í Teaching on
- Religious Unity.
Wednesday, May 28, 8 p. m.
- Subject: Bahá’í Administration.
- Speaker: Mrs. Isabel Slade.
Welcome to
Mrs. Mary Hanford Ford, of New
York
On the occasion of the first of her fourth annual series of Bahá’í addresses in the London season when her subject will be:—
The Forward March Of the Bahá’í Cause
LETTER FROM INTERNATIONAL BAHA’I BUREAU[edit]
The work of the Bureau continues its normal course with an occasional branching out in some cooperative way with other movements.
From the Library literature has been sent to many places, among them Albania, Bulgaria, Syria, Dutch East India, Germany, France, Tunis and Egypt; and numerous letters have been answered.
Shoghi Effendi said to Miss Culver, while she has been lately in Haifa that the Library here should be furnished with all publications; that we could ask for, this donation from all Bahá’í publishing committees: so please consider the plea made and herewith accept a surplus appreciation. This will increase immensely the value of the Library. Only recently a student of comparative religions has written and asked if he might use this Library while here in Geneva in the Spring for the research work he is doing relative to the Cause. How humiliating not to have a full library of all the published Bahá’í works at an international Center!
From Dr. Hermann Grossman of Wandsbeck, Germany, we had a letter which suggested the forming of a plan for the cooperation of the National Spiritual Assemblies in the carrying on of the work here, that might be sent to the Guardian and presented to the different National Assemblies. We thank Dr. Grossman for his suggestions and feel sure that if any N. S. A. would take the initiative, the others would cooperate readily. The importance of the work of this center is not national but international therefore the interest of each N. S. A. is required so that there may be equal representation.
The Wednesday evening French Class held at the Bureau and carried on by Mme. Rao has continually increased in importance and effect. Mme. Rao visited Haifa in November and returned quite filled with enthusiasm for the winter work. This year she has taken “Answered Questions” and “Divine Art of Living” as a basis for her lessons. Mme. Rao’s university training makes it possible for her to present her subjects intelligently, and grasp quickly the pith of the meaning which the Holy Words contain. Her work is constantly growing in value and volume.
A Friday Class in English has been organized, and this may prove another branch to be nurtured and developed. Later classes in German and in other languages may be formed, as the demand requires.
We welcome with delight the written thoughts and expressions of interest from the friends, and any suggestions are deeply valued.
Letters from the Bahá’í Publishing Committee of Teheran, Persia, are among our list, that tell of the splendid activity of our friends in Persia. We would love to have some letters from our Persian sisters, some news of the educational work being accomplished in the girls’ schools. Indeed, we wish that all women’s Assemblies would send us addresses so that we might post them our Bulletins.
To “Auntie” Victoria Bedikian we are indebted for many letters and leaflets, and congratulate her on her active service to the Cause.
A letter from Roy Wilhelm of New York was very welcome; also the enclosed $10 for the Bureau. We appreciate this spirit of cooperation; would like more letters.
From far away Pretoria, South Africa, we have our first communication. This recalls to mind the ardent work of Miss Knobloch, who spent some time teaching in South Africa. We are most happy to welcome this newly–born Assembly, and send our heartiest wishes for their future service to the Cause. In her letter Miss Agnes Carey, the Hon. Sec. of Pretoria, mentions that Mrs. Koster, 9 Relly Street, Sunnyside, Pretoria, South Africa, desires to get in touch with some Holland Bahá’í. We hope any friend who might know of such person, will write to Mrs. Koster and send the address.
Through their secretary, Mrs. Almond, the Assembly of Adelaide, South Australia, writes a most encouraging letter, and although only a small group of ten believers, they have sent their second contribution (£5) to the International Bureau. It is this spirit of unity and love, manifesting outwardly that bespeaks the power of the Holy Words.
We have a letter from E. B. M. Dewing of Auckland, New Zealand, in which she mentions that Auckland has contributed a design for the official League Flag. Also, she expressed the urgent need of subscribers to the “Herald of the South.” We hope friends will respond.
A letter has reached us from Melbourne, Australia, where mention is made of an expected visit from “Father” and “Mother” Dunn, whom all love and reverence for their untiring efforts and complete sacrifice in service to the beloved Cause. We rejoice to know of the protecting guidance that permits them to labor so continuously in His Vineyard, and would be most happy to hear from them. We have not been favored with any letters from our old friends!
We were happy to receive a letter from Miss B. Perrott-Hill, of Sydney, N. S. W., Australia, interstate Sec. of N. S. A. A money order for £3 was also received, and again we are reminded of that love that “surpasseth understanding,” which brings the desire for cooperation and unity.
Mr. C. A. Wragg of Australia, lately from America, interested in aviation and inventions, spent several months in Italy last year. While occupied with his business he nevertheless found time to spread the Teachings and interested a number of people in Rome, where we sent him Italian literature at his request.
We note from a letter received that Bahá’ís of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, celebrated Armistice Day in unity with the general movement in the British Empire. At Geneva for the past two years there has been this setting apart not of one minute only, but of the week, including the 11th and holding each day an hour devoted to thoughts and discourses on peace. People of all sects and movements were invited to meet and make of this week a time, specially appointed for expressing their unity of purpose and desire for World Peace.
A letter from friends in Schwerin, Germany, with an enclosed photograph of the group there, gave us much pleasure.
The Assembly in Karlsruhe, Germany, sent an expression of their kind thoughts through their Secretary A. Renfth, and enclosed 60 Frs. Our warmest appreciation for the response to the call for cooperation.
We received from some friends in Stuttgart a number of books for the Library and were very thankful for same.
A Bahá’í friend of Bagdad, Mr. Toeg, has written us from Milan, Italy, where he has lately arrived and is engaged in business. He has commenced to spread the teachings there and wrote for some Bahá’í books and pamphlets, in Italian.
We express our appreciation for several numbers of N o. 2 Bahá’í News Letter from India and Burma, and congratulate the friends on the birth of the News Letter which contains many interesting accounts. We wish for it a long and profitable existence in the service of the Cause.
We acknowledge a long letter in Persian from the National Assembly of Iraq, Bagdad, and are hoping to have it translated so that we may know the news of that Assembly.
A letter of loving encouragement has been received from Mrs. Collins of California, and a substantial expression in the form of 258 Frs.
We had also an “expression” of interest in the Bureau from Edith Sanderson of Paris, a hundred Swiss Francs.
Mme. Hesse of Paris writes of the
regular weekly meetings of their group
in the home of Mrs. Scott where
’Abdu’l-Bahá spoke often during His
stay in Paris. They have a number
of Persian friends with them at present,
among them Mr. and Mme. Mansuteher
of Tihran. An Armenian
family, recently from Marseilles and
Algeria are also of their number.
Princess Jacques de Broglie, who
heard the teachings in America from
Mrs. Maxwell, and accepted, is now
in Paris. We regret to hear that Mrs.
Stannard has been ill again. With
such a group of workers as Mme.
Dreyfus-Barney, Miss Edith Sanderson,
Mrs. Stannard, Mrs. Scott, Mme.
Hesse and Mr. Mills at Paris, we shall
[Page 8]
expect to hear of much activity. All
communications are addressed to
Mme. Elizabeth Hesse (Secretary),
27 rue de Remusat, Paris.
In September we received a very generous gift of books from Mrs. Loulie Mathews of New York (at that time she closed the circulating library at Portofino, Italy): about a hundred books and some small leaflets. Later we received several copies of her “Whence comes the Light” and a number of a charming small edition of the translation into French by Mr. Mathews of “What is a Bahá’í” from Dr. Esselmont’s book. These are a great addition to our library and we are very thankful to Mr. and Mrs. Mathews.
Just as we are “going to press,” a long and interesting letter reaches us from Los Angeles Assembly.
The Star of the West now completes the list of Bahá’í journals which are gratefully received by the Bureau. Much appreciation to the Staff.
We regret that in the last Bulletin acknowledgment for the donation to the Library from the Washington Assembly was not given: it was overlooked. With time appreciation has increased, so herewith we send it with interest and thereby hope for pardon.
NEWS LETTER FROM BAHA’IS OF BRITISH ISLES[edit]
Dear Friends,
We have entered upon a new year of work with a sense of deep thankfulness for all the blessings of the past year, and of gratitude to God for His unspeakable mercy and love to us. But as we look forward, we realize how tremendous are the opportunities and responsibilities lying before us—opportunities which we can never cope with until we obey more consistently the teachings of the Master—responsibilities which we can never adequately fulfill until we avail ourselves of the Mighty Power of the Holy Spirit ever ready for the assistance of every obedient faithful soul. Doors of service are opening in many directions. Are we ready to enter? Bahá’u’lláh says “O my servant! Free thyself from the fetters of this world and escape from the prison of self. Appreciate the value of the time, for thou shalt never see it again, nor shalt thou find a like opportunity.” Only as “love” becomes the ruling passion of our lives, “a love that melts all opposition, a love that conquers all foes, a love that sweeps away all barriers, a love that abounds in charity, large-heartedness, tolerance and noble striving, a love that triumphs over all obstacles—a boundless irresistible sweeping love,”—can we show to the world the value of the Bahá’í revelation.
London
On April the 11th the first annual Convention was held. Reports from the Secretary and Treasurer of the local Spiritual Assembly were read and each of the Sub Committees gave an account of their year’s work. The Chairman, commenting on these, spoke of the changed outlook for the Cause in this country since last New Year. It was in a spirit of deep gratitude and hope that they could look forward to the future. As a result of nine months earnest prayer for the advancement of the Cause, they saw this room at Walmar House, a permanent home instead of a little room hired for two hours once a week. Here friends from a distance might always find a welcome, literature was on sale, inquiries could be made, and library books exchanged. The symbol of the Greatest Name of God, instead of been hidden in a cupboard except for two hours a week, now was raised on his wall, in the heart of the great metropolis—a witness that the Spirit of God must permeate our lives, and that we must worship in work as well as in prayer.
“When you breathe forth the breath of the Holy Spirit from your hearts into the world, commerce and politics will take care of themselves in perfect harmony. All arts and sciences will become revealed, the knowledge of God will be manifested.”
With this end in view and humbly striving to be worthy instruments of the Spirit, we would move forward to the new year’s work.
After electing the nine members of the local Spiritual Assembly, the following officers were appointed:
Mr. Cleaton (Chairman), Mrs. Romer (Secretary), Mr. Bingham (Treasurer).
On April 26th the Feast of Rizwan was celebrated at Walmar House. In the afternoon, delegates from various parts of the country met to elect the National Spiritual Assembly for the year. The following were appointed:
Mr. Asgarzadeh, Miss Challis (Chairman), Mrs. Coles (Secretary), Mr. Craven, Mrs. George, Mr. A. Joseph, Mrs. Romer, Mrs. Slade (Treasurer), Mr. Sugar.
At 4:30 there was a large gathering of the Friends, and a few strangers were also welcomed. After tea a short Meeting was held. Prayers were read, followed by a brief account of the origin and significance of the feast, and short addresses were given by several of the friends and delegates from other groups.
The new Assemblies are now taking up their work, realizing that they are not leaders, but servants. Theirs is no easy task and they approach it humbly, for the responsibilities are great. The spirit of cooperation and readiness to put individual views aside at the will of the majority are not easily acquired. The command of the Master is very plainly given: “It is again not permitted that any one of the honored members object to or censure, whether in or out of the meeting, any decision arrived at previously, though that decision be not right, for such criticism would prevent any decision from being enforced,” The volume on Bahá’í Administration, which should be at the disposal of each assembly gives very plain instructions both of the Master and of Shoghi Effendi.
The responsibility for the conduct of the affairs of the Cause rests as much with the electors as with the elected. Neither duty should be undertaken except in the humble endeavor to follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit for the welfare of the Cause, and without respect of persons. The Assembly once formed, we owe it loyalty and obedience.
We have had the pleasure of welcoming in the past month Mr. E. B. W. Dewing from New Zealand, who brought greetings from Haifa; and Miss A. Holsapple, who gave an inspiring account of her sister’s work for the Cause in Bahia. Other visitors were Mr. Mazsud Nerou on his way from Haifa to Russia, Mr. Darood Maanri on his way from Persia to Haifa, and we gratefully acknowledge a gift from the last named of a beautiful rug for the room at Walmar House.
The world is not worthy that man for its sake should commit detestable deeds, and remain afar from the King of Oneness. Verily the world mocketh them that admire and follow after it. Addressing them, it loudly exclaimeth: Hath any one among you been profited by me? Hath any one found me faithful? Ere long I will return you to dust, disillusioned and in grievous loss, even as I have returned to dust them that preceded you.— BAHÁ’U’LLÁH.
