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No. 451

BAHA’I YEAR 125

OCTOBER, 1968

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From Gallipoli to the Most Great Prison

Message from the Universal House of Justice to Palermo

To the Hands of the Cause of God and the Bahá’í Friends Assembled in Palermo, Sicily at the First Bahá’í Oceanic Conference.

Dearly-loved Friends,

THE EVENT WHICH we commemorate at this first Bahá’í Oceanic Conference is unique. Neither the migration of Abraham from Ur of the Chaldees to the region of Aleppo, nor the journey of Moses towards the Promised Land, nor the flight into Egypt of Mary and Joseph with the infant Jesus, nor yet the Hegira of Muḥammed can compare with the voyage made by God’s Supreme Manifestation one hundred years ago from Gallipoli to the Most Great Prison. Bahá’u’lláh’s voyage was forced upon Him by the two despots who were His chief adversaries in a determined attempt to extirpate once and for all His Cause, and the decree of His fourth banishment came when the tide of His prophetic utterance was in full flood. The proclamation of His Message to mankind had begun; the sun of His majesty had reached its zenith and, as attested by the devotion of His followers, the respect of the population and the esteem of officials and the representatives of foreign powers, His ascendancy had become manifest. At such a time He was confronted with the decree of final exile to a remote, obscure and pestilential outpost of the decrepit Turkish empire.

Bahá’u’lláh knew, better than His royal persecutors, the magnitude of the crisis, with all its potentiality for disaster, which confronted Him. Consigned to a prison cell, debarred from access to those to whom His Message must be addressed, cut off from His followers save for the handful who were to accompany Him, and deprived even of association with them, it was apparent that by all earthly standards the ship of His Cause must founder, His mission wither and die.

But it was the Lord of Hosts with Whom they were dealing. Knowing the sufferings which faced Him His one thought was to instil confidence and fortitude into His followers, to whom He immediately despatched sublime Tablets asserting the power of His Cause to overcome all opposition. “Should they attempt to conceal its light on the continent,” is one of His powerful utterances on this theme, “it will assuredly rear its head in the midmost heart of the ocean, and raising its voice, proclaim: ‘I am the lifegiver of the world!’” All the afflictions which men could heap upon Him were thrown back from the rock of His adamantine will like spray from the ocean. His patient submission to the affronts of men, His fortitude, His divine genius transformed the somber notes of disaster into the diapason of triumph. At the nadir of His worldly fortunes He raised His standard of victory above the Prison City and poured forth upon mankind the healing balm of His laws and ordinances revealed in His Most Holy Book. “Until out time,” comments ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, “no such thing has ever occurred.”

The Part We Must Play

Contemplating this awe-inspiring, supernal episode, we may obtain a clearer understanding of our own times, a more confident view of their outcome and a deeper apprehension of the part we are called upon to play. That the violent disruption which has seized the entire planet is beyond the ability of men to assuage, unaided by God’s revelation, is a truth repeatedly and forcibly set forth in our Writings. The old order cannot be repaired; it is being rolled up before our eyes. The moral decay and disorder convulsing human society must run their course; we can neither arrest nor divert them.

Our task is to build the Order of Bahá’u’lláh. Undeflected by the desperate expedients of those who seek to subdue the storm convulsing human life by political, economic, social or educational programs, let us, with single-minded devotion and concentrating all our efforts on our objective, raise His Divine System and sheltered within its impregnable stronghold, safe from

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The Passing of Hand of the Cause Mr. Ṭaráẓu’lláh Samandarí

HAVE CABLED NSA PERSIA “WITH SORROWFUL HEARTS ANNOUNCE PASSING [September 2] HAND CAUSE GOD SHIELD HIS FAITH DEARLY LOVED TARAZULLAH SAMANDARI NINETYTHIRD YEAR HIS LIFE ON MORROW COMMEMORATION CENTENARY BAHA’U’LLAH’S ARRIVAL HOLY LAND. FAITHFUL TO LAST BREATH INSTRUCTIONS HIS LORD HIS MASTER HIS GUARDIAN HE CONTINUED SELFLESS DEVOTED SERVICE UNABATED UNTIL FALLING ILL DURING RECENT TEACHING MISSION. UNMINDFUL ILLNESS HE PROCEEDED HOLY LAND PARTICIPATE CENTENARY. EVER REMEMBERED HEARTS BELIEVERS EAST WEST TO WHOSE LANDS HE TRAVELLED BEARING MESSAGE HIS LORD WHOSE COMMUNITIES HE FAITHFULLY SERVED THIS PRECIOUS REMNANT HEROIC AGE WHO ATTAINED PRESENCE BLESSED BEAUTY YEAR HIS ASCENSION NOW LAID REST FOOT MOUNTAIN GOD AMIDST THRONG BELIEVERS ASSEMBLED VICINITY VERY SPOT BAHA’U’LLAH FIRST TROD THESE SACRED SHORES. REQUEST ALL NATIONAL ASSEMBLIES HOLD MEMORIAL SERVICES INCLUDING FOUR MOTHER TEMPLES BAHA’I WORLD BEFITTING LONG LIFE DEDICATED EXEMPLARY SERVICE LORD HOSTS BY ONE ASSURED CENTER COVENANT LOVING WELCOME PRESENCE BAHA’U’LLAH ABHA KINGDOM. EXTEND LOVING SYMPATHY ASSURANCE PRAYERS MEMBERS DISTINGUISHED FAMILY.” PLEASE HOLD MEMORIAL SERVICES AS REQUESTED.

—THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE

September 3, 1968

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the darts of doubtfulness, demonstrate the Bahá’í way of life. Wherever a Bahá’í community exists, whether large or small, let it be distinguished for its abiding sense of security and faith, its high standard of rectitude, its complete freedom from all forms of prejudice, the spirit of love among its members and for the closely knit fabric of its social life. The acute distinction between this and present day society will inevitably arouse the interest of the more enlightened, and as the world’s gloom deepens the light of Bahá’í life will shine brighter and brighter until its brilliance must eventually attract the disillusioned masses and cause them to enter the haven of the Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh, Who alone can bring them peace and justice and an ordered life.

Befitting Scene for First Oceanic Conference

The great sea, on one of whose chief islands you are now gathered, within whose hinterland and islands have flourished the Jewish, the Christian and Islámic civilizations is a befitting scene for the first Oceanic Bahá’í Conference. Two milleniums ago, in this arena, the disciples of Christ performed such deeds of heroism and self-sacrifice as are remembered to this day and are forever enshrined in the annals of His Cause. A thousand years later the lands bordering the southern and western shores of this sea witnessed the glory of Islám’s Golden Age.

In the day of the Promised One this same sea achieved eternal fame through its association with the Heroic and Formative Ages of His Cause. It bore upon its bosom the King of Kings Himself; the Center of His Covenant crossed and recrossed it in the course of His epoch-making journeys to the West, during which He left the indelible imprint of His presence upon European and African lands; the Sign of God on earth frequently journeyed upon it. It enshrines within its depths the mortal remains of the Hand of the Cause of God Dorothy Baker and around its shores lies the dust of apostles, martyrs and pioneers. Forty-six Knights of Bahá’u’lláh are identified with seven of its islands and five of its territories. Through such and many other episodes, Mediterranean lands—ancient home of civilizations—have been endowed with spiritual potentiality to dissolve the encrustations of those once glorious but now moribund social orders and to radiate once again the light of Divine guidance.

Through dedicated, heroic and sacrificial deeds during the course of the beloved Guardian’s ministry, the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh was established in this area. Eight pillars of the Universal House of Justice were raised, the first of an even larger number to be established now and during the course of future plans, to include, as envisioned by Shoghi Effendi, National Spiritual Assemblies in major islands of that historic sea.

Engender Dynamic for Overwhelming Victory

The timing of such exciting developments is dependent upon the outcome of the Nine Year Plan. At this midway point of that Plan, although great strides have been made, more than half the goals are still to be won. The greatest deficiencies are in the opening of new centers where Bahá’ís reside and the formation of local spiritual assemblies, which inevitably affects the ability to establish national spiritual assemblies. A dramatic upsurge of teaching—effective teaching—is necessary to make up the leeway; pioneers are needed, teachers must travel, funds must be provided. It is our hope that there will be engendered at this Conference, through your enthusiasm, prayers and spirit of devotion, a great spiritual dynamic to reinforce that grand momentum which, mounting steadily during the next four years, must carry the community of the Most Great Name to overwhelming victory in 1973.

Dear Friends; within a few short days the observance of the Centenary of Bahá’u’lláh’s arrival in the Holy Land will take place. The hearts and minds of the entire Bahá’í world will be focused on the Most Holy Shrine, where those privileged to attend this commemoration will circumambulate that Holy Spot and raise their prayers to the Lord of the Age. Let them remember their fellow-believers at home and supplicate from the depths of their souls for such bounties and favors to descend upon the friends of God everywhere as to cause them to rise as one man to demonstrate their love for Him Who suffered for them, by such deeds of sacrifice and devotion as shall outshine the deeds of the past and sweep away every obstacle from the onward march of the Cause of God.

August 1968	With loving Bahá’í greetings,
	THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE

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Sicily Greets First Oceanic Conference

Over 2300 Bahá’ís Attend Palermo Sessions Before Visiting Holy Land

SICILY, AN ISLAND of stone mountains and tropical splendor overlooking the blue Mediterranean Sea became the setting of the first Oceanic Conference, the Bahá’í Mediterranean Conference August 23, 24, 25, 1968. Marking an unprecedented meeting for the Mediterranean island, Palermo received more than 2,300 Bahá’ís from 67 countries, many in their varicolored native garb. By plane, boat and train they came from every land and island — Eskimos, Africans, Australians, North, Central and South Americans, Asians, Europeans and many, many more joined in this historic Conference. This Conference was a prelude to the visit to the Holy Land on the occasion of the Centenary of Bahá’u’lláh’s arrival in ‘Akká on August 31, 1868.

Bahá’ís began arriving in Palermo on August 22nd filling all available hotel space in the city. 175 Persians arrived from Piraeus, Greece on a chartered liner which served as a hotel during the Conference. Moving to the Port of Haifa, they will return to Piraeus where the friends will reboard to return to Irán. A family from northern Ireland sailed on a 32-foot Bermuda cutter.

Scene of the Conference

Large yellow and red signs on the city’s buildings directed them to Fiera del Mediterraneo in the eastern part of the city where the Conference was held in a large exposition hall, seating 4,000 people. In other buildings on the exposition grounds a bank, a post office, and a child care center were operated for the courtesy and convenience of the Bahá’ís in attendance. The back of the Conference Hall contained a book sales table where slides of the Holy Land, a new map of Bahá’u’lláh’s journey and a book of the Holy Places prepared by the Universal House of Justice were on sale, as well as other Bahá’í literature. Provisions were available for simultaneous translation of the Conference from English to Italian, Spanish, Persian, German and French. The basement of the Conference Hall housed a room for registration and other activities, including a graphic display of a future publication on Bahá’u’lláh’s journey.

Across the street from the Conference Hall the friends could enjoy refreshments in an outdoor snack bar or have lunch among the trees at the restaurant. Palermo is a large city of over 600,000 and although there were local buses and taxis for transportation, the committee arranged for special buses to transport the friends to and from their hotels and the exposition grounds four times each day. These special tour buses — about 25 — created quite a stir with their special Bahá’í Mediterranean Conference signs. Townspeople were drawn to the Conference site and the bus drivers were found in conversation during the day with many of the Bahá’ís.

The Unify Feast

The Unity Feast was held on Thursday evening, August 22nd with some 1,750 of the friends in attendance. Professor Alessandro Bausani, Chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly of Italy, welcomed everyone to the historic Mediterranean Conference, and noted the bounty of having ten Hands of the Cause of God in attendance. He spoke of the difference between this time and the time of Bahá’u’lláh’s journey, quoting from Shoghi Effendi on the rigors of Bahá’u’lláh’s journey. He also compared the spirit of the believers journeying with Bahá’u’lláh to the spirit that will be generated by this Conference and how it would flow out to the whole Mediterranean area and to Europe.

Groups of friends from each of the 67 countries represented were introduced and welcomed.

Mr. William Sears, Hand of the Cause, spoke on “This Day of God”. He emphasized that the believers did not seem to realize the power waiting in reserve to assist in every endeavor. The believers have only to call upon it. He said the Bahá’ís should rejoice that they had heard of the Faith in this world of turmoil and be concerned about what could be done for the Faith.

He traced the travels of Bahá’u’lláh and told what would be seen in the Holy Land. He asked the friends while they visit the places in the Holy Land to think about what they can do now to generate a new impulse to make the world know about the Faith, to conquer the goals of the countries around the Mediterranean, to assist the pioneering effort, and to think about the bounties we have that are not yet shared with the world.

Special Greetings from the Holy Land

The opening session of the Conference on Friday morning found more Bahá’ís in attendance. The Chairman introduced the ten Hands of the Cause of God seated on the platform, which was flanked with ferns under a huge Greatest Name. Dr. Ugo Giachery, the Representative of the House of Justice, brought special greetings from the Universal House of Justice to this historic Conference. He compared today to the time of the Crusades when they went from Palermo to conquer ‘Akká in the hopes of bringing the spirit back to this land of Sicily. The Bahá’ís going to ‘Akká have brought the spirit here to Palermo with this Conference.

Dr. Giachery read the message to the Conference sent by the Universal House of Justice. The friends were all provided with copies of this message.

Historic Journey Recounted

Hand of the Cause, Mr. Faizí traced Bahá’u’lláh’s journey for the friends, giving many accounts of early believers in service to Bahá’u’lláh and the sacrifices they made to journey with and assist Him. Today we have the opportunity to spread the Word of God throughout the world. Think what could happen if the 2,000 Bahá’ís at the Conference would come away from the World Center and raise the call of Yá Bahá’u’l-Abhá in all parts of the world.

[Page 4] An introduction was made of all the members of the Continental Boards of Counsellors who were present.

Palermo Officials Welcomed

A public meeting was held on Saturday night at Teatro del Parco di Villa Castelnuovo. In the outdoor theatre among the jasmine trees, Professor Bausani spoke on the Bahá’í Faith to an audience of Bahá’ís and non-Bahá’ís including the officials of the city of Palermo.

Highlighting the August 24th morning session was the presentation of the Governor of the province of Palermo, His Excellency Dr. Ravalli, by Hand of the Cause Dr. Giachery. The Governor extended warm regards and words of welcome, saying “My heart is very much like Bahá’í. This day will not be forgotten.” The Governor received with appreciation a copy of The Proclamation of Bahá’u’lláh.

This Day of Justice

The chairman of the session, Mr. Erik Blumenthal, Counsellor of the Continental Board for Europe, then presented Hand of the Cause Mr. Haney who addressed the friends on the world-wide Proclamation Campaign. He emphasized the significance of this Day of Justice, reiterating the statement of the Universal House of Justice that the purpose of Bahá’u’lláh’s Message was the unity of the human race. He continued his reference to the Messages of the Universal House of Justice, saying “Other plans are to be launched continually until mankind is enlisted under the banner of Bahá’u’lláh.” Mr. Haney, emphasizing Bahá’í responsibility, stated that our primary duty now is to aid the Faith to emerge from obscurity. He stressed “We are not alone or helpless,” indicating that we draw strength from each other and from the power of the administrative order.

Marking the progress of introducing the Faith to religious and governmental officials, Mr. Haney stated that as of August 18th, 109 of the world’s religious and governmental leaders had been presented, directly or indirectly, copies of The Proclamation of Bahá’u’lláh. Though the responses have run from very cordial to cordial, Mr. Haney stressed that these leaders will not bring the Faith to mankind; rather, it is the Bahá’ís who, through their responsibility, have their “rendezvous with destiny”. Alluding to a Goethe quotation, he mentioned widespread doubts and fears. He stated Bahá’ís must find people in every stratum who have doubts — doubts in everything and faith in nothing.

Elements of Proclamation

Mr. Haney gave as the most important elements of proclamation: recognition of what powerful weapons Bahá’u’lláh has placed in our hands to wage the campaigns which lie ahead; the consequences of mankind’s failure to heed the call of God — not only at the time it was first raised by Bahá’u’lláh, but also in the intervening period and especially now when the world is faced with such grave dangers that many people fear humanity may not survive at all. A third point stressed the recognition of ultimate goals toward which we are working, and the fourth, the guidance given us by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the Guardian, and currently the Universal House of Justice. Mr. Haney pointed up the dichotomy of statements of the key figures of the Faith and the Universal House of Justice — on one hand giving words of warning and on the other, words of promise of fulfillment in this Day of God. He illustrated through the Messages to the Kings how the twin elements are presented. He referred to The Promised Day Is Come as the Bible of proclamation.

Mr. Haney’s talk was interrupted several times by a clamorous thunderstorm — remarkable weather for Palermo’s summer. He continued his speech and elaborated on the twin processes in contemporary human society, one destructive of time-honored but outworn institutions and traditions; the other constructive in providing a pattern of a new world order. Mr. Haney stated that in the midst of this turbulent age only the Bahá’ís look forward hopefully to the future for only they can perceive the cause of the contemporary turmoils.

Programs Cited

Also featured on the day’s program were statements on proclamation by American, Swiss, and British representatives. Thomas Anaquod, an Indian believer and member of the Canadian National Spiritual Assembly, explained the Canadian campaign since February — the presentation of The Proclamation of Bahá’u’lláh to heads of all provincial governments, special newspaper advertisements, proclamation meetings, and varied means of contact with individuals and the public, the clergy and the governmental officials.

Mr. Arthur Dahl of the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States presented the report for the U.S.A., elaborating on the purpose of proclamation and the varied means of reaching the public from the Intercontinental Conference publicity to the presentation of proclamation publications to officials, to institutes and public meetings to spiraling local efforts. He pointed up special events and plans this year in the area of Human Rights, and cited the pamphlet Why Our Cities Burn as one which has been presented to governmental leaders.

Phillip Hainsworth, member of the National Spiritual Assembly of the British Isles, reported that through a recent inter-religious meeting at Westminster Abbey the Bahá’í Faith was mentioned for the first time. Another highlight of the British effort was a radio broadcast “What Is the Bahá’í Faith?” which went to all parts of the world. A human rights campaign similar to that of the United States and growing local activity were other proclamation emphases.

Mr. M. F. Lenz, representative of the Swiss National Spiritual Assembly, indicated Switzerland’s present financial independence in its Bahá’í activities, its coordination of various committees which formerly worked separately, its cooperation with Austrian Bahá’ís, and its special attention to Bahá’í schools and activities to attract youth.

Reports from the Mediterranean

The afternoon session of August 24th featured reports from Mediterranean areas: Austria, the British Isles, France, Germany, Italy, North Africa, North East Africa, North West Africa, Spain, Lebanon and Turkey. A common call was given for prayers and for pioneers, citing growth toward goals in the Nine Year Plan in enrollments, acquisition of Temple sites and properties,

[Page 5] the enrichment of literature in various additional languages, and the acceleration of activities in deepening and teaching where conditions permit.

The program closed with the reading of the Divine Plan and letters and writings of the Guardian related to the Mediterranean islands and territories.

The Baha’i World Today

On Sunday morning, August 25th Hand of the Cause Dr. Ugo Giachery spoke of “The Bahá’í World Community One Century after Bahá’u’lláh’s Journey.” Dr. Giachery, as Representative of the Universal House of Justice, contemplated the magnitude of the accomplishments achieved by the Community of the Most Great Name as witness to the power of Bahá’u’lláh’s mighty Revelation. Foremost among these accomplishments is the birth and evolution of the Administrative Order, the nucleus and true pattern of the New World Order, and at its head the Universal House of Justice, the stupendous dome of an indestructible structure, resting on the pillars of 81 national spiritual assemblies throughout the world. Representation of the Faith in 314 countries, in 32,000 localities where Bahá’ís reside, including 6,000 local spiritual assemblies and 26,000 Bahá’í groups attest to the awe-inspiring spread of the Faith during these past one hundred years, as does the acquisition of 50 Temple sites and 62 national endowments, and the development of 12 permanent summer schools, 22 teaching institutes, and 71 educational schools. Also noteworthy among the accomplishments of this century are the representation of over 1,000 races and tribes united in brotherhood and one purpose in the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh, the publication of Bahá’í literature in over 400 languages, and the establishment of 10 Publishing Trusts in both East and West which have raised the standards of Bahá’í publications.

Growing Recognition of the Faith

Also stressed by Dr. Giachery was the growing prestige and recognition of the Faith evidenced by the achievement of incorporation within the laws of their respective countries of 56 of the 81 national spiritual assemblies, the latest of which is Spain, a country Dr. Giachery called the bedrock of Catholicism. Nearly 680 local spiritual assemblies have also been incorporated. Twenty-three countries and 43 states of the United States now recognize the legality of Bahá’í marriage, while 23 countries and 139 localities in 39 states recognize Bahá’í Holy Days. Mention of the Faith and coverage of its activities by television, radio and the press is increasing. In the first ten months of the Proclamation period at least one million pieces of free Bahá’í literature have been distributed by Bahá’ís around the world. In West Germany alone, a Bahá’í publication revolving around the Frankfurt Intercontinental Conference has been distributed to 43,301 schools in that country. Representation, under the directives of the Universal House of Justice, to the United Nations is adding to the prestige of the Cause and allows for the establishment of cordial relations with official representatives to that body. Dr. Giachery then turned to consideration of the World Center of the Faith, its infinite beauty, and its significance as the focal center around which are developing the world-directing administrative institutions ordained by Bahá’u’lláh — the Universal House of Justice; the Hands of the Cause of God, one of the most precious assets of the Bahá’í world; the 135 Auxiliary Board members, rendering outstanding services, and the newly created Continental Boards of Counsellors who have already assumed their sacred responsibilities.

In conclusion, Dr. Giachery exhorted us to turn our grateful hearts in thought to the selfless deeds of those who have preceded us and made it possible for us to witness the greatness and triumph of the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh which will rule man’s destiny for the next 5000 centuries.

The Panama Temple

Following Dr. Giachery’s presentation, a representative of the National Spiritual Assembly of Panama related the inspiring story of the progress of plans and construction of the Panama Temple in the face of a series of seemingly insurmountable difficulties, attributing assurance of its continued progress to the infallible guidance of the Universal House of Justice and the support of every believer.

As this historic Conference moved to its climax, Hand of the Cause Enoch Olinga, informing the gathering that at that very moment the members of the Universal House of Justice were supplicating at the Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh for the fruits of this Conference, called for those present to seize with both hands this God-given opportunity to proclaim the Message of Bahá’u’lláh and to vow that the months ahead would be the zenith, the crowning point of our lives. In a stirring call to rededication and sacrifice he urged those present to relate themselves to the as yet unachieved goals of the Nine Year Plan in the areas of pioneering, travel-teaching and increased contribution to the Bahá’í Funds.

Response to Three-Fold Appeal

At this crucial moment of decision-making, Mr. Olinga announced the decision by the House of Justice to extend the use of the International Deputization Fund to include assistance to national teaching projects, in support of traveling teachers and pioneers for the attainment of Nine Year Plan goals to be submitted by national spiritual assemblies and approved by the Universal House of Justice.

Mr. Olinga pointed out that 225 pioneers were still needed, and he called upon the participants of this first Oceanic Conference to arise to answer the call of the Universal House of Justice to fill these goals. More than 125 believers arose to answer that call, eliciting a joyous response of applause and singing from the assembled friends and expressions of loving gratitude from the Hands.

Dr. Giachery, reminding the friends of the three facets of participation, and the extension of the use of the International Deputization Fund, then called for those who could volunteer as traveling teachers, and again more than 100 friends arose to answer this call.

At this time also an appeal for contributions to the International Fund was made as a means for those to participate who could not leave their homes, and immediately hundreds of the believers made their way to tables designated for this purpose.

Two of the beloved Hands, greatly moved by this three-fold expression of willingness to serve embraced exclaiming “Victory! Victory!” for truly the prayers of the Universal House of Justice were answered.

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3500 Year History of ‘Akká

The major address of Sunday afternoon by Hand of the Cause Mr. Furútan was on the subject of Bahá’u’lláh’s Ministry in the Holy Land. Mr. Furútan began with an outline of the 3,500 year history of ‘Akká. The fortress-city was mentioned in many of the holy books of the Christian and Muḥammadan Faiths. According to one Muslem tradition “He that hath been bitten by one of the fleas of ‘Akká is better in the estimation of God than he who hath received a grievous blow in the path of God.” Bahá’u’lláh wrote that ‘Akká was said to be “the most desolate of the cities of the world, the most unsightly in appearance, the most detestable in climate, and the foulest in water.”

The Blessed Beauty was condemned to perpetual incarceration in the prison city in order to break His will and end His influence. Bahá’u’lláh responded by renewed proclamation.

It was here that many of His most important writings, including the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, were revealed and the flame of His Light burned most brightly. Now when Sultán ‘Azíz is dead and forgotten, thousands of Bahá’ís gather to celebrate the victory of his Victim. “Chains did not prevent this Cause; imprisonment did not become a barrier... From the beginning of the world never before has the Cause of God been proclaimed so openly.” We too, the present day followers of Bahá’u’lláh, must thrive and proclaim in the face of adversity.

Prayer in Vietnamese Closes Conference

The conclusion of the Sunday session and of the entire Conference was befittingly glorious. Two believers from the war-torn nation of Vietnam, by traveling day and night, arrived in time to help close the Conference with a beautiful prayer in yet another tongue. In closing the Conference, Professor Bausani of Italy told of some of the off-stage bounties. Sicilians had told him that “Palermo will not be the same as before after this Conference.” Five drivers of buses serving the Conference site had asked Hand of the Cause Dr. Ugo Giachery “Why don’t you build the Temple right here now?” Professor Bausani concluded with thanks to the believers whose devoted work made the Conference a success and special thanks to Bahá’u’lláh for the spiritual bounties showered upon us.

(A Report of the Commemoration at the World Center will be published in the next issue of Bahá’í News)

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World Council of Churches Meeting in Sweden — Backdrop for Proclamation

“That the Cause associated with the name of Bahá’u’lláh feeds itself upon those hidden springs of celestial strength which no force of human personality, whatever its glamour, can replace; that its reliance is solely upon that mystic Source with which no worldly advantage, be it wealth, fame, or learning can compare; that it propagates itself by ways mysterious and utterly at variance with the standards accepted by the generality of mankind, will, if not already apparent, become increasingly manifest as it forges ahead towards fresh conquests in its struggle for the spiritual regeneration of mankind.”*

These “hidden springs,” along with the purposiveness of the Swedish Bahá’ís, combined to make over 2,000 people from eighty countries aware of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh during the meeting of the World Council of Churches in Uppsala, Sweden, which opened July 4, 1968. Winston Evans, of Nashville, Tennessee, unofficial observer at Uppsala attending at the request of the Universal House of Justice, assisted the Swedish friends in an all-out Proclamation of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh that included two public meetings and considerable publicity. A systematic program to implement this Proclamation was initiated as follows:

(1) Newspaper publicity and ads for eight successive days with “Christ and Bahá’u’lláh” as a lecture theme.

(2) Prestige feature story in the most conspicuous spot in an Uppsala newspaper, calling attention given to the Faith in America by noted journalists George Cornell (A.P.), Dave Meade (Chicago Daily News), and Dan Thrapp (Los Angeles Times).

(3) Invitations to 2,000 World Council delegates, advisors, observers, members of the press, youth participants and others, to attend one of the two meetings.

(4) A beautiful poster with a picture of the Shrine of the Báb, designed in Belgium, was placed at strategic locations throughout the city.

Since no “free” night was available to the Council delegates, it was evident that attendance at the meetings would not be drawn from this source. However, the invitations themselves served as proclamation pieces. They included a picture of the Shrine of the Báb, an excerpt from the Tablet to the Pope, a copy of the pamphlet prepared for this occasion, Manifestation—Not Incarnation, and a copy of the Dave Meade story from the Chicago Daily News entitled: “Bahá’í Faith Fourth World Religion Based in Holy Land.”

An interesting development concerned a huge board, about ten feet high, in the main corridor leading to the large hall where the plenary sessions were held. Anyone was free to write notices on it. This suggested an opportunity to a new member of the Uppsala Bahá’í Community who had recently left the theological seminary to embrace the Faith. Since he was serving the delegates as a bus driver and steward, he was able to write at the top of the board: “Bahá’u’lláh.” Underneath this he wrote: “Soon will the present day order be rolled up and a new one spread out in its stead.” And “O ye who art waiting, tarry no longer for He is come.” Immediately many people gathered around the board. The next day a CBS camera man in London photographed it, stating that he expected the pictures would be included in both Britain and the U.S. on one of two major religious programs. An Uppsala newspaper ran a photo of the board showing the quotation.

Altogether the combined efforts of the Bahá’ís accomplished a worldwide proclamation of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh, which, while not huge numerically, was broad in scope, reaching representatives from many parts of the world that are sometimes difficult for the Faith to penetrate. In addition, personal contact was made with many world religious leaders and members of the press.

*World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, pp. 51-2.

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VOLUNTEERS HELP AT WORLD CENTER

Almost a week before the influx of believers from the Palermo Conference, a group of volunteers—most of them youth—gathered in the Holy Land at the invitation of the Universal House of Justice to act as guides and helpers. Most of them came from European and North African countries—Ethiopia, Angola, Italy, France, Luxembourg, Denmark, Germany, Belgium, Sweden, England, Eire, and Turkey—but there were also contingents from Persia and the United States.

Shortly after their arrival they were taken on a brief visit to the Holy Places, ending with a visit to Bahjí where they met the Universal House of Justice. Afterward they joined the Universal House of Justice at the Most Holy Shrine for prayers for the success of the Mediterranean Conference at Palermo.

The helpers were then assigned to teams having responsibility for such things as registration and guiding on Pilgrimage buses and at the Holy Places. Each team was further divided into shifts so that the various posts would be covered roughly from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The loving spirit, the energetic enthusiasm and the poise of these young people were apparent and made a favorable impression on all with whom they came in contact. The helpers themselves were greatly impressed by their visits to the Holy Places, and were deeply conscious of the great bounty of being able to serve, even for a brief time, at the World Center of their Faith.

Following are some of the impressions of the volunteers:

“I feel very deeply that the time spent here in Haifa may well be, second only to the time I became a Bahá’í, the most important turning point in my life... so much confidence have I gained in myself from the opportunities of sharing, in a small way, the responsibilities that go with running the World Center, and so much love for mankind have I gained from being inspired...”

“To pray in the Shrines is by far the greatest spiritual feast ...”

“It is impossible for me to write down my feelings. It is spiritual and it can’t be explained by words.”

“Slides of the Holy Land will never be just beautiful slides again—I shall be able to relate to them all.”

“I am happy to be a part of the Bahá’í Center and I do feel a part of it. I am thrilled to be able to be of service to the visiting Bahá’ís.”

The volunteers met the members of the Universal House of Justice at the Mansion of Bahá’u’lláh at Bahjí.

The volunteers approach the Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh at Bahjí. Mr. John Wade (in front) of the World Center staff was in charge of arrangements.

’Amatu’l-Bahá Rúḥíyyih Khánum invited the volunteers to an evening at the Master’s House.

[Page 8]

“From eternity Thou hast been removed far above the reach and the ken of the comprehension of Thy servants, and immeasurably exalted above the strivings of Thy bond-slaves to express Thy mystery.”

—Bahá’u’lláh

Explanation of the Emblem of the Greatest Name

by

Hand of the Cause Abu’l-Qásim Faizí

The identity of the Greatest Name, a mystery concealed from time immemorial “behind the mystic veil” and preserved in the treasure house of the knowledge of God, was to be revealed and manifested to men’s eyes at its appointed time in accordance with the Divine Plan, like the other manifold and basic truths of the New Age. Allusions had been made to it by the Messengers of old, under the impact of Whose Revelations, man made spiritual progress and gradually attained a clearer understanding of its hidden meanings. Like a brilliant sun wrapt in clouds, the Greatest Name remained hidden and unknown. Those who longed to catch a glimpse of its splendor drew close, but enjoyed only a dim vision of its radiance. Throughout past centuries, in accordance with the inscrutable wisdom of God’s progressive revelation of truth, the veils remained until gradually, one by one, they were removed from this precious and all-embracing Name.

Anticipated in Past Religions

The eager followers of past religions, in their deep desire to witness a flickering of the approaching majestic dawn, found that the new Name of the Great One to come meant “light”, “splendor” and “glory”. The followers of Krishna, for instance, expected His return under the name of “Vishnu Yasha”, which in Sanskrit means “Glory of God”. The last chapter of the Shrimad Bhagwad of the Hindu Scripture states: “Vishnu Yasha will possess great energy, intelligence and prowess ... He will restore order and peace in this world ... Man in general will begin to honor and practice truth.”¹

One of the Bahá’í scholars in the Middle East, whose father had formerly superintended a Buddhist Temple, and who was himself well-versed in the writings of that Faith, told me that many times he had read the entire Gospel of Buddha in Sanskrit, every word of which he had understood with the exception of the meaning of a word composed of “B”, “H” and “A”, which occasionally appears in Buddhist Scripture. When he learned of the Bahá’í Faith, the mystery was solved. The letters, joined together, formed the name of “Bahá”.

The references by Buddha are exceptionally clear. Ananda, one of His disciples, asked Him, “Who shall teach us when Thou are gone?” Buddha replied in these clear terms: “I am not the first Buddha who came upon earth, nor shall I be the last. In due time another Buddha will arise ... He shall reveal to you the same eternal truths which I have taught you. He will preach to you His religion, glorious in its origin, glorious at the climax and glorious at the goal, in the spirit and in the letter.”²

It is most interesting to note that in Buddhist Scripture, particularly in the Amitayus Sutra, clear reference is made to “AMITABHA” as the “Infinite Light of Revelation”, “the Unbounded Light” and the “Source of wisdom, of virtue and of Buddhahood”. When giving the qualities of a “true follower” Buddha stated that it was he who “relies with his heart upon Amitabha ... the unbounded Light of Truth.”³

The Jewish mystics knew of the significance of the two letters “B” and “H” and attached much importance to them. Their spiritual leaders and philosophers wrote commentaries and drew the attention of seeking souls to these letters. There is a legend among the Jews about Solomon’s Seal, a Seal said to have carried the Greatest Name from which it reputedly derived its power over all creation, including the animal world.

In Isaiah, we read, “... Lebanon is ashamed and hewn down; Sharon is like a wilderness; and Bashan and Carmel shake off their fruits.”⁴ Isaiah also says, “... The glory of Lebanon shall be given unto it, the excellency of Carmel and Sharon; they shall see the glory of the Lord and the excellence of our God.”⁵ It is interesting to compare this last verse with its Arabic version which, when translated literally into English, reads as follows: “God will render to Lebanon its glory; the Bahá of Carmel and Sharon shall be manifested, and they shall see the glory of God, the Bahá of our Lord.”⁶ When Jesus spoke to the Jews who were familiar with these terms, He therefore told them that He would return “in the glory of the Father.”

As the Islámic Faith immediately preceded the New

[Page 9] Day, followers of Islám found that the veils covering this hidden treasurer had become more diaphanous, allowing the heavenly rays of light to penetrate deeper, and to reveal in sharper detail the reality of this mystery. Explicit references had been made to the Greatest Name, and as the seekers found clear indications of these references, they became encouraged to persevere in their search.

The words of the Imáms and divines of Islám served to draw the longing souls to the fountainhead of true knowledge. There is a very powerful prayer which the Shí‘ih Muslims chant as a dawn prayer during the month of the fast. The faithful believer awakens at dawn to catch the melody of its tune as it is chanted from the minarets of mosques or, in these days, is broadcast from the radio stations. In introducing this prayer, Imám Rida has said, “I swear by God that the Greatest Name is found in this prayer. Had you known this, you would have fought with swords to possess this prayer.”⁷ The opening words of this prayer read as follows: “O God! My God! I beseech Thee by Thy Bahá, Thy Bahá in its entirety. I beseech Thee by all Thy Bahá ...”. The prayer then goes on mentioning other Names of God including “Beauty”, “Splendor”, and all the Names which are a part of the Bahá’í calendar.

Acclaimed by Poets

Poets and philosophers found this mystic secret and openly acclaimed it. At the time of Sháh ‘Abbás, the Persian King and contemporary of Queen Elizabeth, the greatest of all the divines of that age went to Persia from Lebanon and established his residence in Iṣfáhán which was then the royal seat and the country’s capital. This man had an encyclopedic mind, and he wrote outstanding books on the arts, sciences, the literature and philosophy of his age. There are many stories about him and his unique erudition and genius. It is even said that he had invented a machine which reproduced voices from distant lands. One of his discoveries was the Greatest Name, and he adopted the name of “Bahá’í” for himself. Shaykh Bahá’í is unquestionably the most renowned of all Persian divines. In one of his poetical works he says, “The Greatest Name is unknown to man, but in the list of all the Names of God it stands first.” No doubt he had in mind the dawn prayer mentioned above which opens with the name of Bahá.

Mawlaví, the greatest of all the mystic poets of the East, whose poems are well-known for their elucidations of the spiritual journey of man and his attainments in the realms of God, has stated, “We have found Bahá and we hasten to offer our life as a sacrifice to Him. He is our ransom.”⁸

Ḥáfiẓ, the most renowned of all lyric poets of the East, addressed Persia, saying, “May this land remain forever prosperous. From its sacred soil at every breath the breezes of the Merciful are wafted. Glad tidings to the glorious Kings of Persia! Glad tidings for a blissful ending! The Power of the Greatest Name has stayed away the hand of evil from that country”.

While I was in Arabia, I examined the manuscript of a book on Mystic Philosophy from one of the learned men there. In one chapter the author speaks of the conditions to be observed by the seekers of the path to God, and says, “Those who tread the path and knock at the door of the knowledge of the Light are sincere and forebearing. They stand face to face with angels who greet them, cleanse and purify them. They pour for them water from the fountainhead of Bahá. When they open their eyes they behold God passing by with great majesty, His name appears above the horizon of the Kingdom ... Those people, though they wander on earth, have their hearts attached to the Exalted Spot and the dwellers in the Great Tabernacle.”⁹

Made Known to Bábis

With the inauguration of the New Age and the appearance of its Herald, the Báb, the remaining veils were torn asunder through the movement of His exalted Pen. The people began to know more and more clearly that “Bahá” was, without any shadow of doubt, the name so dearly treasured and destined to be manifested with all splendor and majesty. The explicit nature of the Báb’s reference to Bahá’u’lláh and the glowing terms with which He praised Him, made “Bahá” the focus of adoration.

The Báb singled the Greatest Name out in the manuscript copies of His matchless Writings. Years ago, I had the honor to read three volumes of His Writings before they were dispatched to the beloved Guardian. The books were written down by Mullá ‘Alí Akbar Ardestani¹⁰ in the first year of the Báb’s Dispensation. These books were written in black ink, but whenever the many references were made to the word “Bahá”, the word always appeared in red. During the very first year of His ministry, the Báb had instructed His amanuensis to write in this manner in order that those who had no time or patience to read all His Writings would be helped to see this Name.

There are innumerable references to “Bahá” in all of the writings of the Báb and to quote them all here is beyond the scope of this essay. It is sufficient to note that He has said, “Well is it with him, who fixeth his gaze upon the order of Bahá’u’lláh and rendereth thanks unto his Lord.”¹¹

When the followers of the Báb gathered under special circumstances in Badasht, it was there that everyone received a new name. It was then that they knew this shining diadem of majesty and might found its eternal manifestation, not on the forehead of one who was clad in the garments of the learned; but shown instead on that of a Youth who was majestic in appearance, glorious in gait and manners, and godly in every atom of His being. So exalted was He in the eyes of the people, so highly respected and adored, that out of sheer homage and love they did not dare to mention His name. Instead He was referred to as “Ishan.”¹²

The Letters of the Living and the early believers now knew the Bearer of this Name and recognized in Him such heavenly attributes that, even though they had quaffed from the newly-found stream of life, they prayed and longed for the even more glorious day when they could be drowned in the powerful, celestial ocean of the Utterance of this Great One.

Ṭáhirih, in one of her epistles says, “O my God! O my God! the veil must be removed from the face of the Remnant of the Lord. O my God! protect Ḥusayn, the mystery of Muḥammad and advance the day of reunion with Him ... Make the point of Bahá, O my God! to circulate ... O my God! protect all who circumambulate the twin points and keep them steadfast in Thy

[Page 10] most Great Cause, so that they might behold the point sending forth light upon them.”¹³

It was no wonder that so many hundreds of learned and outstanding divines of the East sacrificed their lives with devotion and faith in the path of the promulgation of the Greatest Name. They waited for its advent, waited for the moment when the effulgences would emanate from it. The instant they felt it was ascending toward the dawning point, they burnt themselves in its light and rose like glowing lamps. They became the “Dawn Breakers”.

There are numerous references to the name, the place of birth, the date of declaration, the places of banishment, the imprisonment and the fate of the Central Figure of our Faith. For the purposes of this essay it is sufficient to know this great, authentic Islámic tradition; “All the followers of the Promised Qá’im shall be put to death except One Whose face shall shine with Abhá beauty in the plain of ‘Akká.”

From the introduction we gather that the Greatest Name is “Bahá”. “بهاء.” This point should be well understood and borne in mind, as we proceed to fathom with our limited means this tremendous divine mystery. It will be necessary to proceed slowly and patiently, step by step, in order to discuss each phase of this essential theme so that we might have a full grasp of all of the problems pertaining to the subject.

The Báb adored the name, “Bahá”, and used it profusely in all His writings. He even made many derivatives from this one word and wrote them out in a Tablet which had the form of a five pointed star, symbolizing the human temple.

Far from attempting to make an exhaustive study of this subject, we merely set forth a few points at random to pave the way for a clearer understanding of this theme, the “Symbol of the Greatest Name”.

The Symbol of the Greatest Name

Our explanation of the symbol of the Greatest Name is based mainly on a Tablet revealed by the beloved Master and will cover the topics as follows in this article.

Who Designed the Emblem?

One of the believers who had the bounty and privilege of attaining the presence of the beloved Master has recorded one of the Master’s oral statements which indicates that this emblem was initiated by Him. No less a person than ‘Abdu’l-Bahá could have designed this emblem for who else could have condensed so much of the divine mystery into so little space and into so few letters. Some of the mystic divines among the Israelites have emphatically drawn the attention of their followers to the two letters “b” and “h” indicating that they have some idea about the Greatest Name. It has been said that the Greatest Name was the leading decoration of the Temple. The Muslims were better acquainted with it but not in this form and finality. One finds in the Islámic laws governing worship and reverence, that whoever possesses a ring bearing the symbol of the Greatest Name must wear the ring on their right hand.

The friends are not obliged by Bahá’u’lláh to wear a ring carrying this emblem since there is no specific law by Bahá’u’lláh in the Aqdas or in His Tablets regarding this. The beloved Master told the friends in the West that the ring should be placed on the right hand, which is a perpetuation of the Islámic law referred to above.

Some Derivatives of the Name Bahá

Bahá — Light or Glory

Abhá — Most Glorious

Al Abhá (sometimes used as el Abhá) — The All Glorious; The Most Glorious.

Bahíyyih — The name of the Greatest Holy Leaf, meaning Full of Glory.

Alláh’u’Abhá — God, the All-Glorious. This is a Bahá’í greeting, initiated and used since the days of Adrianople.¹⁴ Its use ninety-five times each day, according to an instruction written on behalf of the beloved Guardian, “is not absolutely binding.” “Alláh’u’Abhá” is to be repeated in the long obligatory prayer where instructions call for use of the Greatest Name.

Yá Bahá’u’l-Abhá — This is an invocation. It means “O Glory of the all-Glorious”. In this connection we recall the soul stirring message of the Guardian in 1953 to the Intercontinental Conferences where he refers to “Yá Bahá’u’l-Abhá” and “Ya ‘Alíyyu’l-A’lá” as the “battle cry” of the pioneers and teachers in the many fields of his world-embracing spiritual Crusade. The first, as already stated, means “O Glory of the All-Glorious”, while the second means “O Exalted (essence) of the Most Exalted One.” There is nothing in the Writings which says we have to repeat such an invocation a specific number of times each day. However, what a thrill it would be for us in times of dire need, to seek God’s guidance, His support and strength, by addressing Bahá’u’lláh and the Báb directly with these beautiful invocations. Yá Bahá’u’l-Abhá is symbolized thus:

Symbol of the Greatest Name

We will begin with the basic pattern of the design and, as we proceed, the picture will be complete:

This part of the symbol comprises three levels, each level indicated by a number. Together they represent the underlying belief which is the basis of all the religions of God. They are as follows:

1. The World of God—The Creator
2. The World of the Prophets or Manifestations — Cause, or Command
3. The World of Man — Creation

The followers of all religions believe that man, left to

[Page 11] himself, can never recognize God and attain His presence; nor is man able to fathom the mystery and purpose of his own creation. God, in His unlimited bounty has singled out His Chosen Ones and will continue to do so, sending them to man at different times and ages in order to grant him penetrating insight and to enable him to have a glimpse of the unfading glories of the innumerable worlds beyond.

The Prophets accept descent from their realms on high and suffer the abasement of living in human temples, walking amongst men and speaking their languages. The Manifestations are invariably denied, ridiculed, humiliated and even put to death. Were it not for Their spiritual upliftment and leadership, man would have continued to live as a wild beast and would have been eternally doomed to deprivation and loss.

These functions of the Prophets are clearly demonstrated in the design of the Greatest Name by having the world of the Prophets (shown in horizontal line) repeated in vertical line, thus joining the world of the Creator to that of His creation.

Contrary to this, the mystics believe in only two worlds, the world of God and the world of man. They proclaim that should man cleanse himself from all worldly desires and earthly attachments, he will be enabled to attain the presence of his Lord, the Creator. The mystics claim there is no need for an intermediary link between God and His creation. They therefore believe in, and practice, ascetic life which sometimes takes them to secluded corners of the world, occasionally in the mountains, forests and jungles. This hermit’s life is utterly forbidden by the mighty Pen of Bahá’u’lláh, because He desires every man to be a fruitful member of the society he lives in.

The Bahá’ís believe that no matter what height of spiritual, scientific and material success man may reach, he is and will forever be in need of divine guidance bestowed upon him by the Prophets of God. It is only through Them that man can comprehend the secrets of true civilization and recognize the Will, and the Purpose of his Creator. The Bahá’ís also believe that it is through a complete understanding and the full establishment of Their highly valued and vital precepts and teachings that man can attain the highest state of happiness, and eventually rejoice in the presence of his Lord.

Let us ponder once more upon this design and behold with our own eyes the perfect realization of Christ’s prayer. The lights of the Kingdom on High are mirrored forth by the Manifestations of God upon the plane of creation, thus fulfilling the promise of the appearance of God’s Kingdom on earth, as it is in heaven.

Symbol of the Greatest Name — The Letters it Contains

Now let us study the letters inscribed in the symbol to discover what they signify.

The letters “B” and “h” in the Oriental script are written as ٮ and ھ respectively. “B” stands for the name of the Báb and “h” stands for the name of Bhaa.

To grasp the significance and the important implications of this beautiful and artistic combination, we must bear in mind that among the Near-Eastern people the Phoenicians were the first to sail their boats to distant lands. Wherever they traveled, they established trading centers, and as traders found themselves forced to adopt some practical way of recording their commercial transactions. The characters they adopted became their alphabet and in the course of centuries this alphabet developed and gradually became a pattern of alphabets used in both the East and the West. Gibbon says: “Phoenicia and Palestine will forever live in the memory of mankind; since America as well as Europe, has received letters from the one, and religion from the other.”

“The use of letters was introduced among the savages of Europe about fifteen hundred years before Christ; and the Europeans carried them to America about fifteen centuries after the Christian era. But in a period of three thousand years, the Phoenician alphabet received considerable alteration; as it passed through the hands of the Greeks and Romans.”¹⁵

Will Durant, in his monumental Story of Civilization, describes this contribution as the most precious legacy of the ancient cultures.

Ancient Alphabets

The Phoenecians used their alphabet for both letters and numbers, therefore each letter had a numerical value. Their alphabet starts as follows:¹⁶

Letter	Numerical value	Letter	Numerical value
A	1	Ḥ	8
B	2	T	9
J	3	I	10
D	4	K	20
H	5	L	30
W	6	M	40
Z	7	N	50

When the Phoenecians wished to say, “One house; two years; or nine letters”, they would write, “A house; B years; T letters. There are some very interesting remnants of the influence exerted by this very ancient people of the Near East still to be found in the western languages of today. The four letters, “K”, “L”, “M” and “N” are in the same order in English, French and some other western alphabets, just as they appeared in the Phoenecian alphabet illustrated above.

The next stage in the science of numbers was the acquisition of numbers by the Moslems who acquired them from the Indians. To the nine digits of the Indians, the Moslems introduced “zero” thus completing the science of numbers. The world is indebted to the Indians for this very valuable and fundamental contribution. Had it not been for these numbers, the science of mathematics would have stood still, and without mathematics man could not have progressed in technology, nor could he have fashioned instruments with which he changes the face of the earth today.

The people of the East continued to give numerical values to the letters of their alphabet even though they

[Page 12] had the Indian numbers. Today it is still common to find that poets, doctors of religion and writers convey their thoughts through this symbolic method of letters with numerical value.

This method was used a great deal by the Báb. He very often gave people and places surnames which had the same numerical value as the original names. For example, he called Mah-kú, “Basit” (open). Mah-kú and Basit have the same numerical value of 72. He called Chirhriq, “Shadid” (‎Grevious Grievous‎). Both of these have a numerical value of 318. Likewise, the great author of the “Dawn Breakers” was named Muḥammad, but surnamed Nabíl; both names have a numerical value of 92. It is this same method which is used for the designs of the symbols of the Greatest Name.

Symbol of the Greatest Name — Bahá’u’lláh and The Báb

We repeat the letters in the symbol of the Greatest Name: B = ٮ stands for the Báb and H = ھ stands for Bhaa.

The numerical value of Báb would be: B = 2; A = 1; B = 2   total = 5

The name “Bahá” is as follows :B = 2; H = 5; A = 1; A = 1   total = 9

Nine is the perfect number, on the top of the ladder of the numerical progressive elevation. It is very mysterious and more than any other number, full of special qualities and potencies. The numbers end with nine. After nine, whatever we write in the form of digits is repetition of the same figures. Mankind throughout ages will gradually fathom the mysteries of this special number which is the numerical manifestation of the Greatest Name: Bhaa.

Symbol of the Greatest Name — Adam and Eve

The number nine contains all the numbers from one to nine which, when added together give a total of 45. (1 + 2 + 3 etc.) Continuing our calculation in this way we say that the number five, representing the Báb (B = 2; A = 1), contains all the numbers from one to five which, if added together give a total of fifteen. The name of Eve in Arabic, Persian and in other Oriental languages is written in three letters: H = 8; W = 6; A = 1. These total 15. Likewise the name of Adam in the Oriental languages is in three letters: A = 1; D = 4; M = 40. These total 45.

Thus we find that two traditional names, Adam and Eve, God’s first two spiritual creations, referred to in the Scriptures of old and held in such reverence and love by men throughout the ages, are linked with the twin Manifestations referred to in all the Books of God, and Whose appearance was promised on the Last Day. Thus Adam and Eve are connected with the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh in this great symbol, which becomes a token of oneness between the past and the present.

Symbol of the Greatest Name: The Essence of Sacrifice and the Essence of Servitude

The two five pointed stars on both sides of the emblem represent the human body; a head, two hands and two feet. These two stars represent the twin Manifestations of God in this Day. Their advent is the fulfilment of all the writings of God’s prophets in bygone ages, Who, emphatically, repeatedly and often, in a language clearer than the light of the sun, assured mankind of the undoubted appearance of these Twin Luminaries, Who would rescue the world from the fetters of prejudice and the dictates of self.

In conclusion, may I venture to suggest another approach to the meaning of the two stars. This approach is merely a personal one, therefore not authoritative. Could we not visualize God as manifested in His most resplendent glory in the majestic figure of Bahá’u’lláh, and standing on either side of Him, two towering personalities of unsurpassed beauty: the Báb, the Herald, the incarnation of sacrifice and of self-effacement and the highest expression of true love ever possible in this contingent life; and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the Center of the Covenant, the true Exemplar of the teachings and the highest embodiment of servitude. These two exemplify the mysteries of sacrifice and servitude, calling on all men to hasten and offer their potentialities as humble gifts for the establishment of God’s redeeming order, the very reflection of His kingdom on earth.

FOOTNOTES:

1. Prof. Printam Singh, The Second Coming of Shri Krishna, p. 10
2. Sermon of the Great Passing
3. Shirin Khanum, Lord Buddha and Amitabha, pp. 13, 17-19.
4. Isaiah, Chapter 33, Verse 9.
5. Isaiah, Chapter 35, Verse 2.
6. Holy Bible, Arabic translation, 1881, Third Ed., also: Ishraq Khavari, Rahiq-i-Makhtum. (The Sealed Wine) pp. 218-219.
7. Mafatihu’l Janan, Keys of Paradise, compilation of Muslem Prayers.
8. Nabil’s Narrative, p. 72, “Whoso seeketh Me, shall find Me ...” (a Tradition).
9. Maqan A’ala is the name given by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to the Shrine of the Báb. It means “the Exalted Spot.”
10. Nabil’s Narrative, p. 146, footnote no. 3.
11. Shoghi Effendi, God Passes By, p. 25.
12. Honorific form of Persian pronoun for the third person singular.
14. Shoghi Effendi. God Passes By, p. 176.
15. Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, Ch. 1, p. 32.
16. The Hebrew alphabet used by Israeli people today is exactly the same.

[Page 13]

LEGAL RECOGNITION GRANTED NSA OF SPAIN

It was with hearts overflowing with joy that the Bahá’ís of Spain received official notification on July 13, 1968 that the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Spain had been legally recognized and given registry number 2 in the Register of Non-Catholic Religious Associations in the Ministry of Justice. This recognition of the National Assembly carries with it the automatic legal recognition of all Local Spiritual Assemblies duly formed in accordance with the Statutes of the National Spiritual Assembly.

This represents the fulfillment of one of the goals of the Ten Year Global Crusade of our beloved Guardian which, in spite of continuous efforts and great expense beginning in 1954 had proved impossible of accomplishment. From 1954 through 1963, legalization proceedings went through various government levels and to the Supreme Court with continuous denials. This goal was then included in the Nine Year Plan.

In December, 1966 a new basic law of the land was approved by national referendum, and one provision of the new law provided for government protection of all religions. To implement this new concept, a Law on Religious Liberty was passed by the national Parliament on June 28, 1967.

On March 16, 1967, the National Assembly of Spain designated the National Proclamation Committee to handle all matters involved in processing the legal recognition of the Faith in accordance with the foregoing law. This committee, with the close collaboration of Auxiliary Board member Charles M. Ioas, prepared all of the necessary documentation, including the translations of the By-Laws prepared by the Universal House of Justice, lists of all believers in Spain, statement of accounts and properties, etc. All documentation was presented to the Ministry of Justice in November of 1967, all at a total cost of three pesetas (less than five cents) for a stamp tax.

Writes the BAHÁ’Í NEWS correspondent from Spain: “At the same time that we share the above magnificent news with the Bahá’í friends throughout the world, we should also like to share the news that a Bahá’í Editorial has also been officially registered in the Ministry of Information and Tourism. This now permits the publication of Bahá’í books and literature in Spain, as well as the importation and distribution of Bahá’í books from outside the country.

“We know that all friends everywhere will share our elation at these marvelous and undreamt of advances for the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh in Spain, and will also share in our appreciation to the Spanish authorities who have made these advances possible.”

Summer School in England

A portion of the hundred Bahá’ís who gathered for a weekend school, Eccles, Manchester, England, June 8-9, 1968, to study the relationship of the Guardianship and the Universal House of Justice. Attending Auxiliary Board Members helped to make the school a memorable learning experience.

Bahá’í Youth School held in Madrid, April 8-16, 1968. [See report, September, 1968 Bahá’í News]

First Local Spiritual Assembly of Sevilla, Spain, formed this Riḍván as a result of fine pioneering work of Juan Sanchez of Sabadell, Spain with additional help in deepening by Juana Ortuno. Front row: Juan Sanchez, Juan Garcia Arcos (chairman); Ana Bonilla; standing: Dolores Sanchez Bonilla, Juan Sanchez Bonilla, Manuel Jara and Juana Ortuno. Antonio Sanchez and Isabel Reyes are absent.

[Page 14]

Continental Board of Counsellors Meets in Panama City

Continental Board of Counsellors for Central America convenes in Panama City July 19, 1968. Left to right: Alfred Osborne, Panama; Dr. Ugo Giachery, Hand of the Cause of God; Mrs. Carmen Burafato, Mexico; Artemus Lamb, Yucatan, Mexico. The Board which met for eight days with Dr. Giachery also met with many of the friends at the Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds on July 21 and on other occasions.

Local Spiritual Assembly of Cayenne, French Guiana. Seated, from left: Mrs. Paula da Silva, Mrs. Porthos Célinie, Mrs. Yago Emma. Standing: Dr. Rivadavia da Silva (chairman), Gresset Théodoric, Harris Rodolph, Radamonthe Eleodore (secretary), Saint Luce Joseph (treasurer), and Yago Cecilien, (vice-chairman). This community of fifteen is working enthusiastically to reach the twenty-five needed members for legal recognition, and will later become a part of the National Spiritual Assembly for the Guianas and Surinam. Dr. and Mrs. Da Silva and son Bruno (in photo) came from Bahia, Brazil as pioneer-settlers to forward the work of establishing an Assembly.

Bahá’ís of Mexico Find Many Ways to Teach

The Local Assembly of México City has carried out a unique proclamation project at the request of their National Assembly. A free course on the Bahá’í Teachings was offered in a publicity presentation in the newspaper Novedades, with accompanying quotations from the Writings. Over fifty responses from thirteen different States were received. Mérida, Yucatán, sent a special proclamation booklet and letter to the religious leaders of all Faiths in their city. Similar programs are in process for other cities in México.

In the spring of this year, Bahá’í youth from México City, Puebla and Cuernavaca, accompanied by Miss Soledad Bilbatua, secretary of the National Assembly, visited the State of Oaxaca along with pioneers Marilyn Bierman and Adan Pech, concentrating especially on Zapetec and Mixtec pueblos previously opened to the Faith. The trips were made by bus and on foot over arduous mountain terrain and rough country. A more extended visit was made to the state of Oaxaca and Michoacan in the spring months by Auxiliary Board members Artemus Lamb and Mrs. Carmen Burafato, visiting innumerable communities to assist Bahá’ís in teaching endeavors. Mr. Lamb also visited the Yaqi Bahá’ís in state of Sonora. The Yaqis, Mr. Lamb said, have the same loving nature as the Mayans and carry on in the same spirit of the Faith.

The Mayan Bahá’ís, mentioned in a summary report in April BAHÁ’Í NEWS continue to do outstanding pioneer work. They are so much like the “Dawn-Breakers” that they attract the hearts not only of people of humble origin but those of more intellectual backgrounds. Some Mayan pioneers not mentioned in the April story are: Señor Anacleto and his dedicated wife Doña Crescencia and grandson who have enrolled the first believers in the virgin State of Zacatecas; Adan Zenen and his wife Fidelia who have completed many months of teaching in Oaxaca and have returned to Yucatán to assist with the work there. The first Spiritual Assembly was established in the State of Guerrerro through the ardent work of Claro and Elsy Jimenez, who have since that time enrolled the first six Bahá’ís in the State of Hidalgo.

Development of Institutes

A piece of land twenty meters square has been donated to the Faith in the pueblo of Komchen, Yucatán, by a Mayan family, to serve as a teaching center for Bahá’ís in the northern section of the State who find it difficult to attend sessions given in the Institute named for Martha Root in the southern part of the State. A new dormitory is being built at the Muna Institute to enable mothers to bring small children and share in the courses. The Institute named for Hand of the Cause of God Amelia Collins in San Rafael Comac in the State of Puebla, the first Indian village to have a local assembly is being improved physically and will soon receive students for a training course. The Jenabe Caldwell family are assisting with this work.

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Brief Adventures in Pioneering

THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL Goals (formerly the Foreign Goals Committee) of the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States has received an enthusiastic letter from the National Spiritual Assembly of Nicaragua expressing gratitude for the International Youth Project to that country during a few weeks of the past summer. This was one of three such projects developed this year in cooperation with National Spiritual Assemblies in Central America.

The four youths from the United States who participated in this rugged introduction to pioneering were: Robert L. Aducat of Marlton, New Jersey; Richard Tomarelli of Stamford, Conn., Gordon E. Warren of Wichita, Kansas and Thomas L. Williams of Trenton, New Jersey.

Three of the boys who had volunteered for the project met for the first time at the National Youth Conference in Wilmette. The fourth participant, son of Bahá’í parents, declared himself just two weeks before setting out. The National Assembly of Nicaragua writes: “We can assure you that their short stay of about six weeks here with us was a most precious and enjoyable experience for all the friends and gave lots of stimulation to the friends wherever they visited. They were a symbol of unity, dedication, obedience and of fine spiritual qualities in spite of their young Bahá’í age. We know that they suffered a lot as a matter of orientation to the climate, food, culture, and also an intensive itinerary ... but as one of them said they learned much more on this trip than they could learn from books and school.”

Frustrating delays interrupted the project when the boys first arrived; luggage went astray; heavy rains and fog kept them in the air all day and returned them to their starting point on a trip to Bluefields which normally takes an hour of flying time. On a journey along the Atlantic coast the sea was unbearably rough and the party split up, several being forced to walk the beach of the long shoreline.

The boys were guided by long-time pioneers Cecilia King, Mauricio Fajardo and Jorge Harper, each sharing various portions of the journey. Much of the trip was through swamps and jungles in a tiny boat under hard conditions completely new to the youth. At Womantown, at Rio Bamana, the Bahá’ís had made a special big boat to receive their guests. One meeting attracted over 100 enquirers. In this area of Golden Mines over 25 people embraced the Faith.

The enthusiasm of the young teachers, their spirit and Bahá’í songs acted as a magnet all along the course of their travel from the Atlantic Coast to the Pacific. The National Assembly of Nicaragua gives generous praise of this project, which each boy financed himself, and: “Warmly extends its deep appreciation and heartfelt gratitude to this wonderful group of Bahá’í youth and prays for the confirmation by Bahá’u’lláh in every step they take for the Cause of God.”

Second Youth Project in Yucatán

The second North American youth project to Yucatán brought five girls from the United States who, despite physical difficulties generated by the climate and

Above: participants in summer teaching trip to Nicaragua. Left to right: Gordon Warren, Thomas Williams, Richard Tomarelli, Robert Aducat. Below: group which met with the young teachers.

change of food, made many trips to Mayan pueblos in the States of Yucatán, Quintana Roo, Chiapas and Campeche. Ronda Avis, Susie Porch, Nancy Kappus, Lynn Johnson and Linda Richter divided their time between the Institute in Muna with pioneer Susan Millet (herself a member of the youth team of 1967) and their headquarters in Merida. They assisted with two youth congresses that attracted 250 Bahá’ís and a youth study course at the Institute. New pueblos were opened, new people were attracted to and confirmed in the Faith as a result of this dedicated effort.

[Page 16] A few of the seventy Bahá’ís who greeted visiting friends on the island of San Andres, Colombia. The visitors were: Mrs. Leota Lockman, secretary of the National Assembly of Panama, (left above) a youth, Brian Malam, and Mary Macdonald. Mrs. Helen Hornby (at right) is the pioneer from the United States. Mrs. Lockman spoke of her visit to Haifa as a delegate to the recent International convention. Writes Mary Macdonald: “The friends here are wonderful people.... We found ourselves feeling the spiritual unity that unites all Bahá’ís ... The beauty of this island, its coconut trees waving in the breeze, its clear water, white sandy beaches and these warmhearted Bahá’ís truly captivated all of us!” Photo at right shows an island scene.

National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Colombia elected at Riḍván 1968. Left to right: Galo Vanegas, Teresa Alarcón, Habib Rezvani, Leonor Porras, Betty Toomes, Inés de Montenegro, Hector Varela, Luis Montenegro and Olavo Novaes.

Echoes of Proclamation

Echoes of the new worldwide chorus of proclamation of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh have been heard as far away as the Falkland Islands, a tiny island group lying 300 miles east of the lower tip of South America. The small Bahá’í group in the islands was electrified last June 11 to hear an eight minute broadcast on the Faith over the British Broadcasting Co. program, “Letters to the World.” The broadcast, which had been prompted by a letter read on the same program several weeks earlier suggesting that those who sought an answer to world problems should turn to the Bahá’í Faith, commenced with the reading of two more letters — one asking for further information, and the other asserting that only in Christianity can the world find salvation. Following this there was an interview with Mrs. Betty Reed, secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the British Isles, which stressed the proofs of the unity of religion and the need for a new revelation from God at this time.

This publicity was thrilling beyond belief to the Bahá’ís of the Falkland Islands where only one believer has declared himself in the past thirteen years. As the morning broadcast was repeated at noon and in the evening the believers were able to notify their friends so that they could listen to the later broadcasts. The officials of the Islands radio station kindly cooperated by taping the program.

The broadcast coincided with the visit, on a teaching trip, of Edmund Meissler, Auxiliary Board member from Brazil. A specialist in fire prevention, Mr. Meissler was able to be of service to the Falkland Islands government and was interviewed over the Islands radio station by the Colonial Secretary. The latter also listened to the tape of the B.B.C. program and was so impressed that he gave permission for it to be rebroadcast once again over the Islands radio station, which has a much greater listening audience among Islanders than does the B.B.C.

The prestige of the Faith has thus been greatly increased in the islands and the Bahá’ís have even greater confidence that their goal of a local assembly by 1973 will be attained.

International News Briefs

Latin America

The National Spiritual Assembly of Belize rejoices in the achievement of their goal of legal incorporation.

To further their proclamation program in Chile the National Spiritual Assembly conducted a nation-wide poster contest in which cash prizes were awarded for the best posters illustrating the principles of the Bahá’í Faith. The first prize was awarded to a student of

[Page 17] First national youth conference of Honduras, July 27-28, near the famous Mayan ruins at Santa Rosa de Copán. Fifty youth, including fifteen inquirers, not only deepened their own understanding but made an impact on the outside world. Jere McKinney, recent youth pioneer from the U.S.A., chairman of the youth committee, was host to the conference. He was aided by Christopher Ruhe in leading the evening singing. Tim Ferrand and Rafael Garcia from El Salvador lent strong support to the success of the conference as did two youthful Persian pioneers, Parvis Rohani and Merhdad Wauzi.

architecture, not a Bahá’í, whose poster shows six hands (a pair each of black, white, and yellow hands) against a mauve background thus illustrating the principle of the oneness of mankind.

The National Assembly of Chile suggests that this means of gaining publicity for the Faith might also be successful in other places.

The Bahá’ís of Bolivia have issued a Bahá’í Declaration of Human Rights to promote better knowledge of human rights through conferences, round tables, articles in the press and radio presentations that tend to eliminate prejudice and intolerance. A Bahá’í Committee has been appointed for the promotion of these ideals and is offering cooperation to the United Nations Human Rights Committee in Bolivia. The Declaration was made June 17 during one of the consultative sessions of the National Spiritual Assembly of Bolivia.

Weekend School held in Limon, Honduras. Bahá’ís here have cut the wood and donated a site to construct a Center. They also plan to teach the Faith in other Caríb villages up the Limon River. Another project is the shared planting of a piece of land to earn money for the Fund.

1968 National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’í of South Central Africa. Seated, left to right: John D. Sargent, Sr. (chairman), Mrs. Helen A. Hope (sec’y.), Dennis Makiwa (vice-chairman), Enayat Sohaili (treasurer). Standing: Mrs. Florence Fat’he-Aazam, Peter Chakauya, Jeffrey Gruber, Willard Mahlunge, Mrs. Esther G. Glauder.

Bolivian delegates gathered for their annual convention

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Philippine Bahá’ís Keep Sights on Nine Year Goals

Winning the goals of the Nine Year Plan is the incentive for activity through the Philippines. A summer school was held June 5-9 in Baguio with a program planned to gain inspiration for participating more actively in the fulfillment of these goals. Twelve of the required eighteen Local Spiritual Assemblies to be incorporated during the Plan have reached this status.

The National Teaching and Proclamation Committee of the Philippines has sent letters and Bahá’í literature to the civic leaders of 300 cities and towns. All of the newspapers in the city of Manila also received a special folder of information material for their files. Bahá’í youth have contributed greatly to the work. Four young Bahá’ís who helped in the election of a number of new Assemblies volunteered to teach for two months under the plan of the Committee. Proclamation has also been going on at the University of the Philippines, College of Agriculture, in Laguna, where lectures to a number of classes in the Department of Humanities were given and interviews held on the college radio. Some Bahá’í youth from Persia have come to attend colleges in the Philippines and work in the Nine Year Plan. A year ago the National Assembly suggested to Lino Cabanayan that he study at North Eastern Foundation College. Now, a year later, there are forty-one Bahá’ís in the high school department!

Bahá’ís of La Castellana presented the teachings at a town fiesta by setting up an attractive booth with music, slides, posters and a replica of the Bahá’í Temple. This same idea was carried out at the city fair in Bacolod City.

Throughout the islands Bahá’ís have been busy holding conferences, institutes, public meetings and firesides, with a number of people serving as traveling teachers in all of these areas of endeavor.

At City Hall, Honolulu on the occasion of the presentation of The Proclamation of Bahá’u’lláh to the members of the City Council. In center front are Bahá’í representatives Miss Elizabeth Naope, Miss Lynne Ellen Hollinger, Miss Barbara Matsushige and Mr. Tracy Hamilton, chairman of the local Assembly of Honolulu. At the extreme right, next to Mr. Hamilton, is Mr. Herman Lemke, Chairman of the City Council.

International News Briefs

The Pacific

The Hon. Manuel Guerrero, Governor of Guam, was presented with a copy of The Proclamation of Bahá’u’lláh on March 21 by the local Spiritual Assembly. The Governor arranged to arrive at his office early for a 45 minute interview with the Bahá’ís.

Two representatives of the local Assembly who were warmly greeted by the Governor, told of the significance of the day, Naw-Rúz, and explained briefly the contents of the book, its purpose and significance. The Governor, who has attended several Bahá’í meetings

At youth conference held August 2-4 at the Bahá’í Center in Honolulu, Hawaii. Gertrude Garrida, Advisor is shown second from right seated in row 2.

[Page 19] Mrs. E. C. McMiles of Sutherland, chairman of Australia Bahá’í Community, presenting books to the Sutherland Shire Council President, Councillor A. T. Gietzelt, who received the books on behalf of fourteen fellow councillors as well as for the Shire library. The Sutherand Shire covers an area of 143 square miles and the council is responsible for a population of 137,000.

National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of New Zealand, 1968-’69. Front row, left to right: Miss Pam Ringwood, Mrs. Edith Danielson, Mrs. Alexe Cookson. Second row: John Carr (treasurer), Mrs. Jeanette Battrick (sec’y.), Mrs. M. Edwards (recording sec’y.), Mrs. Nancy Chambers, Peter Suschnigg, Manoo Ala’i (chairman).

and owns Bahá’í books, stated that this Faith might solve the problems of the world, in which closer spiritual ties are so greatly needed. He was most cordial, expressing the hope for future meetings with the Bahá’ís at his residence, and requesting a photograph, which was taken, showing him holding the book, with a Bahá’í on either side. He promised to read it soon on his forthcoming brief trip to Saipan.

Following the interview the photograph was released as an official Government news picture, and was printed with appropriate caption in the Pacific Journal, Guam’s largest daily newspaper.

In Saipan, Mariana Islands Hand of the Cause Collis Featherstone was interviewed for radio during a brief visit in June, 1968. He responded to questions, giving the reason for his visit at this time, telling of the second election of the Universal House of Justice, and explaining the significance and purpose of the Bahá’í Faith. The twelve minute interview which was broadcast on two successive evenings was heard by many residents of Saipan and no doubt reached listeners in Rota Tinian and the Northern Mariana Islands.

Europe

In Italy a Catholic monk, Padre Marian, who speaks weekly on television, mentioned the Bahá’í Faith on his program and read the prayer for all mankind revealed by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Requests from television viewers for a copy of the “very beautiful prayer” resulted in his arranging for the publication of the prayer in the popular magazine Radio-Corriere TV in its issue of July 7.

Dr. Ernst Benz, one of the leading ecclesiastical historians in Germany, has written to the National Spiritual Assembly of Germany as follows:

“... I have spoken for two hours on the Bahá’ís in my series of lectures ‘New Religions’, and could well use the literature which you kindly sent me.”

Some sixty Bahá’ís gathered for the annual convention of New Zealand, held May 18-19 in Auckland. A well attended public meeting was held May 18.

[Page 20] Eleventh annual Bahá’í Summer School, Juneau, Alaska, held June 22-26, 1968. Eugene and Melba King, teachers from Seattle are in front row center. Other teachers were Mrs. Janet Stout and Mrs. Vinita Walkup. Forty-two adults and youth registered, representing sixteen Bahá’í communities.

First Local Spiritual Assembly of Ridgeway, Alaska, formed April 20, 1968. First row, left to right: Mrs. Charlotte Gustafson, Moon L. Mullin, Mrs. Alice Rasmussen. Standing: Mrs. Mary Jane Cottrell, Lewis Rasmussen, Dick Gustafson, Steve Randall, Vernon Cottrell and Mrs. Raye Mullin.

The Bahá’í International Community

Mr. Victor de Araujo, Accredited Representative to the United Nations, was appointed, as a representative of the Bahá’í International Community, to membership on the Executive Committee of the Non-Governmental Organizations committee of the United Nations on July 17. The executive Committee has plans under way to build a stronger relationship between the UN Information Centers and national Non-Governmental Organizations.

National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States elected for 1968-69. Left to right: Glenford Mitchell (secretary), Paul Pettit, Dr. Daniel Jordan (vice-chairman), Dr. Dwight Allen, Dr. Sarah M. Pereira, Arthur Dahl (treasurer), Miss Charlotte Linfoot (assistant secretary), Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh (chairman), Jack McCants. In by-election held August 1 Jack McCants replaced Miss Edna True who resigned July 1 because of her appointment to the Continental Board of Counsellors for North America.

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