Bahá’í News/Issue 500/Text

←Previous

Bahá’í News Issue 500

Next→

Proofread onceReturn to PDF view

[Page 1]

---

No. 500

BAHA’I YEAR 129

November, 1972

---

‘Abdu’l-Bahá at Lincoln Park, Chicago

[Page 2]

A Gift of Three Lives

A Letter from The Universal House of Justice

Farámarz Vujdání

Parvíz Furúghí

Parvíz Ṣádiqí

To the Bahá’ís of the World

With feelings of deep sorrow we relate to the Bahá’í world the distressing circumstances surrounding the murder of three Iranian Bahá’í students, pioneers to the Philippine Islands.

Parvíz Ṣádiqí, Farámarz Vujdání and Parvíz Furúghí were among a number of Iranian Bahá’í youth who answered the call for pioneers. With eleven others they registered at the Universities in Mindanao with the intention of completing their studies and proclaiming the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh. These three had conceived the plan of making teaching trips to a rural area inhabited by Muslims. When on July 31st the authorities of Mindanao State University were notified that they had left the campus the previous day and had not yet returned, search parties were immediately formed and the assistance of the police and local authorities obtained. After inquiries and search, led entirely by President Tamano of Mindanao State University, the bodies of the three young men were found in a shallow grave. They had been shot, grievously mutilated and two had been decapitated. The bodies were removed and given Bahá’í burial in a beautiful plot donated for the purpose.

Immediately upon receipt of the tragic news, Vicente Samaniego, Counsellor in Northeast Asia, in close cooperation with the National Spiritual Assembly of the Philippines, acted vigorously on behalf of the Bahá’ís and was given the utmost cooperation and sympathy by the authorities, police, military and civil. A convocation was called, attended by more than 900 students, faculty members and University officials. Prayers were said in English, Arabic and Persian. The President of the University gave a talk in which he said that the murdered Iranian students are not ordinary students, for with them is the Message of Bahá’u’lláh which is the way to unity. The Council of the Student Body asked that their new Social Hall be renamed Iranian Student Memorial Hall. Three thousand people marched in the funeral procession and six hundred went to the burial site to attend the interment.

A dignified burial was conducted by the Bahá’ís in the presence of University authorities and friends.

The relatives and friends of these three young men, who gave their lives in the service of the Blessed Beauty, are assured of the loving sympathy and prayers of their fellow believers. The sacrifice made by these youth adds a crown of glory to the wonderful services now being performed by Bahá’í youth throughout the world. Bahá’u’lláh Himself testifies:

[Page 3] They that have forsaken their country in the path of God and subsequently ascended unto His presence, such souls shall be blessed by the Concourse on High and their names recorded by the Pen of Glory among such as have laid down their lives as martyrs in the path of God, the Help in Peril, the Self-Subsistent.

September 19, 1972
Haifa, Israel

—The Universal House of Justice

---

Glimpses of Early Bahá’í Pilgrimages

By Annamarie K. Honnold

Part two of three parts

One of the early pilgrims to see the Master while He was yet a Prisoner was Corinne True, who went to the prison-city in 1907. This proved to be the first of nine pilgrimages she was privileged to make to the Bahá’í Holy Places. Only the knowledge that she and her small party were to receive shelter in the home of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá could have made her enter that grim city, so aptly named, “The Greatest Prison”.

The loving warmth of that holy household was felt immediately. The Master had picked three lovely roses, which were sent to them with His welcome. When He Himself appeared, He brought pink and purple hyacinths. Later He sent each a luscious tangerine. These small considerations seemed to fill the very atmosphere with a divine sweetness, filling their hearts with joy.

“Make a Beginning”

“This was during the time of the Second Commission of Investigation by the Turks, when ‘Abdu’l-Bahá had again been confined as a prisoner in ‘Akká by order of the Sultán of Turkey. On this visit Mrs. True took a petition to the Master asking permission for the American Bahá’ís to begin planning for the erection of a ‘House of Worship.’ This petition was in the form of a parchment containing the signatures of over a thousand American believers. She tells the story of putting the parchment behind her on the divan and first presenting the little gifts sent by the loving friends. But the Master strode across the room, reached behind her and grasped the parchment, holding it high in the air. ‘This,’ He exclaimed, ‘this is what gives me great joy.’ ‘Go back,’ He told her, ‘go back and work for the Temple; it is a great work.’ How she longed to do this work, but it seemed such a great task. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, looking at her with deep intensity said, ‘Devote yourself to this project—make a beginning, and all will come right.’ He then proceeded to give basic instructions about its design. It was to have nine sides, nine gardens, nine fountains, nine doors, nine walks, etc. And so a vision of the first Bahá’í Temple in the Western Hemisphere was born.” (Told by Honor Kempton in Bahá’í World, Vol XIII, p. 847)

The small pilgrim party was invited to join the family in early morning devotions—usually held between six and seven—at which time tea was served and the Holy Words were chanted. The Master took His breakfast of a little cheese, Syrian bread and a cup of tea. The pilgrims’ breakfast was served later.

The Holy Household

Corinne True tells about this early morning experience: “The widow of one of the martyrs sits on the floor in the Persian style and makes and serves the tea every morning. Her husband was one of three brothers who were imprisoned for this Cause. For days they had no news about them. One day they heard a great noise in

Hand of the Cause Mrs. Corinne True

the street and looking out they saw three heads placed on long poles and being carried through the streets, and when in front of their home they tossed these heads into their mother’s room. She wiped them off with water and then threw them back, saying, ‘What I have given to God I will not take back.’ This woman who makes the tea had been married only one year to one of these brothers. Having lost all of her relatives through the persecution, and Persian women having no openings for self-support, the Master took her into His household. What a wonderful household this is—over forty people living here in one home, some black, some white, Arabic, Persian, Burmanese, Italian, Russian and now English and American! Not a loud command is heard and not one word of dispute; not one word of fault-finding. Every one goes about as if on tip toes. When they enter your room, their slippers are left before the door and they come in with stocking feet and remain standing until you invite them to sit down.” (Notes Taken at ‘Akká, Corinne True, pp. 29-30.)

Dinner served two purposes: to eat and to teach or learn. The Master would eat a bite or two and then He taught those present. She observed that “Not one moment of the day is wasted by this Mighty Man of God.” (p. 25)

Friday Mornings

Corinne True was one of many who were deeply touched by the Master’s customary Friday morning

[Page 4] acts of charity. From her window she “saw between two and three hundred men, women and children gathered. Such a motley crowd one can see only in these parts. There were blind, lame, cripples and very feeble persons, the poorest clad collection of people almost that the earth contains. One man had his clothing made of a patched quilt, an old woman had gunny sacking for a cloak; children were so ragged that their clothing would scarcely stay on them.

“Two or three of the men believers were with the Master. The people were required to arrange ‎themselvs themselves‎ in order about two sides of the court and the Master began near the gate giving into the hand of each some piece of money and then each was required to move out. It was a sight never to be forgotten to see the Master going from one to another, saying some word of praise or kindness to encourage each. With some He would stop to inquire into their health and He would pat them on the back, these poor, dirty-looking creatures, and once in a while we would see Him send some one away empty-handed and He would reprimand him for his laziness. How clear and musical His voice sounded as He went from one to another, giving and praising! The men accompanying Him kept order in great kindness, but firmness, and saw that each passed on as soon as he had received from the Master. Where on this globe can one duplicate such a scene as is enacted every Friday morning in the court yard of the Master of ‘Akká, Who is Himself a state Prisoner to the Turkish government and has lived in prison or in exile since He was nine years of age!” (Adapted pp. 22-23.)

Later, while resting, the Master told Mrs. True about His friends. “ ‘These are My friends, MY friends. Some of them are My enemies, but they think I do not know it, because they appear friendly, and to them I am very kind, for one must love his enemies and do good to them.’ ” He explained that there was not sufficient work in ‘Akká, and of only two kinds: fishing or carrying heavy loads. The sea had been too stormy lately and the loads to be carried required great strength. Those who attempted to take advantage of Him were rebuked and told where they might obtain work. (p. 24)

A Pilgrimage in 1905

Pilgrim Mary Lucas went in 1905 and wrote A Brief Account of My Visit to ‘Akká. From Haifa a carriage took her to the narrow streets of ‘Akká, streets so small that approaching camels with their burdens were obliged to back away to make room for the carriage to pass.

She was of course deeply impressed with the Master, Whom she found in ‘Akká. She noted His “absolute poise”, “absolute naturalness” and “absolute freedom.” “There was an utter absence of any desire or effort to impress one with His greatness, which is majestic in its simplicity. When we consider that He has never been enrolled in any school, has always been an exile and a prisoner, has had no access to books, that in spite of all this, His knowledge is unbounded! Truly we must marvel! ” (p. 10).

The Master’s Appearance

“In personal appearance the Master is of medium height and slender build. His complexion is rather dark, from the American point of view, but he is fair for a Persian. His eyes are bluish gray, and there is a white line within the iris which sometimes seems to radiate light, making His eyes wonderfully luminous. His countenance is of the type rendered familiar to us by the old masters’ paintings of Christ. His hands are small and delicate, decidedly of the spiritual and artistic sort, but with a grip of steel. Though but sixty years old His hair and beard are white, and His hair falls over His shoulders in Oriental fashion. He is very indifferent as to His appearance, though extremely neat, and in warm weather frequently tucks His flowing locks up under His fez in undisguised desire to get them out of the way. His ordinary costume is a tan colored robe of simple material, and a white fez.” (p. 30).

A Life of Simplicity and Sacrifice

‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s simplicity and generosity were indelibly imprinted in her heart and mind. He knew how to sit with her in silence. He knew how to make a cup of tea for her. His own physical needs appeared virtually non-existent.

How could this Prisoner give to the needy of ‘Akká every Friday morning? Had not His exiled family’s wealth and property been almost totally confiscated? She found that “All that the Master gives is a real sacrifice, and is saved by the cutting off of what most people would consider necessities.” (p. 28)

“The Master slept on the stone floor with only a rug and a matting between His body and its cold, hard surface, and no cover except His cloak. One of the American pilgrims was grieved to see Him so deprived of comfort, and gave Him a bed and mattress. Soon afterward it was discovered to be gone, and when questioned about it, the Master replied: ‘How could I sleep in luxury when so many have nothing!’ ” (p. 29)

She found that He gave away all the many gifts which were sent to Him. “A story is told of a beautiful silver service which was presented to Him, and He did not even look at it. One and another received portions of it until piece by piece it disappeared. A significant incident is that of a wealthy woman who offered Him a sum of money before she left ‘Akká. He refused to accept it, and as the lady pleaded for the privilege of placing it in His hands, He said, at length: ‘I never accept anything for Myself, but if you wish you may bestow it upon a poor man ... for the education of his son.’ So the money was used for this purpose.” (p. 29)

‘Abdu’l-Bahá astride his famous white donkey.

[Page 5] ‘Abdu’l-Bahá usually ate but one simple meal a day. In Mary Lucas’ eight days He was present at most meals, often coming just to add joy to the occasion, though He was not hungry. If He knew of someone who had had no meal during a day, the family supper was gladly packed up and sent to the needy.

She noted that grace was not said before meals. She mentioned this to the Master, to which He replied, “ ‘My heart is in a continual state of thanksgiving, and so often those accustomed to this form say the words with the lips merely, and their hearts are far from being in a state of thanksgiving.’ ” (p. 31)

Even His household reflected His greatness. In addition to Himself, His wife, His sister, two married daughters with husbands and children, and His two youngest daughters, there were some orphan children and widows of martyrs. She observed that “These serve in some capacity in the household, and the sentiment of love and equality in every member of this home is a living example for the world. Everything is done in the spirit of love.” (p. 15)

“Forgive Him Now”

It was observed that on ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s birthday, “He spoke only of the Báb, His mission and message. (He was born during the night of the Báb’s Declaration, May 23, 1844.)” Most certainly He did not use the occasion to talk about Himself.

In 1906 over two hundred guests were to dine at the Master’s table. Since dawn, He had been busy helping with the work involved. He Himself kneaded dough to be put in the ovens. “He has been in gay spirits, inspiring, uplifting, cheering all His helpers,” someone observed. And later He “assisted in passing the platters ... the rice ... the lamb ... the fruits of the region (of such large size, such color, and such fragrance as only the sunshine of the East produces and paints.) Moving among His two hundred guests, He spoke to them as He served them, such Divine words of love and spiritual import ... : ‘If one of you has been wounded in heart by the words or deeds of another, during the past year, forgive him now; that in purity of heart and loving pardon, you may feast in happiness, and arise, renewed in spirit.’ ” With words to this effect He seemed to be telling His many friends that all He wanted of them at that happy time was to know that they had forgiven any transgression which might have been committed against them. (The Sheltering Branch, Marzieh Gail, pp. 70-71)

The First American Bahá’ís on Pilgrimage

Thornton Chase, who has become known as “the ‘first American believer,’ and indeed the first to embrace the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh in the Western world” (God Passes By, p. 288), sailed from Jaffa in Syria with several other Bahá’ís in 1907. They landed safely in Haifa and the next day went through the German Colony, dating back to 1843. Its inhabitants expected Christ’s Second Coming there on Mount Carmel soon thereafter. Inscriptions over doors of homes, church and school expressed their very real expectation. One could still read “Der Herr ist Nahe” meaning that the Lord is near.

The beauty of Carmel did not pass him by as he waited for his pilgrimage to ‘Akká. “Roadsides and fields were painted with blossoms, and we delighted in their variety, colors and fragrance. There were myriads of flowers, daisies, forget-me-nots, sweet peas, lilies, roses, and the flaming red poppies everywhere.” (In Galilee, Thornton Chase, pp. 13-14)

Then came that blessed April day to see ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in ‘Akká. They went by way of the sandy seashore in a carriage drawn by three horses pulling side by side.

Vividly he described in his little story In Galilee, his impressions on arrival: “... they conducted us through the arched, red brick entrance to an open court, across

Thornton Chase

it to a long flight of stone steps, broken and ancient, leading to the highest story and into a small walled court open to the sky, where was the upper chamber assigned to us, which adjoined the room of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. The buildings are all of stone, whitewashed and plastered, and it bears the aspect of a prison.

“Our windows looked out over the garden and tent of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá on the sea side of the house. That garden is bounded on one side by the house of the Governor, which overlooks it, and on another by the inner wall of fortification. A few feet beyond that is the outer wall upon the sea, and between these two are the guns and soldiers constantly on guard. A sentry house stands at one corner of the wall and garden, from which the sentry can see the grounds and the tent where ‘Abdu’l-Bahá meets transient visitors and the officials who often call on Him. Thus all His acts outside of the house itself are visible to the Governor from His windows and to the men on guard. Perhaps that is one reason why the officials so often become His friends. No one, with humanity, justice, or mercy in his heart, could watch ‘Abdu’l-Bahá long without admiring and loving Him for the beautiful qualities constantly displayed.” (pp. 23-24)

For five days he remained inside those prison walls—feeling the love and peace of the Holy Household—finding that the real prison was on the other side of those same walls. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá was ever the perfect host. An instance of this is cited by Chase, who noted that at the noon meal He accepted food only after all those present had been served. And then He indicated that the meal should be eaten by saying “In the Name of God,” smiling His beautiful smile.

The Master possessed spiritual charisma. “He assumed nothing; His powers were natural, His sincerity thorough; His affection pure. His smile charmed and attracted friends to Him.

“He had the stride and freedom of a king—or shepherd. My impression of Him was that of a lion, a kingly, masterful Man of the most sweet and generous disposition.” (p. 29)

‘Abdu’l-Bahá is a grand Man, broad, universal in thought, standing above the world and looking down upon it in its weakness and poverty with a boundless love and an intense longing to lift it up from its

[Page 6] ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s surrey in which many of the pilgrims rode.

wretchedness, to make it conscious of the rich bounties of God, which are so freely offered in this wonderful time ..” (p. 54) “His own personality in the eyes of others is naught to Him, nor does He care for the personality of others. It is not love for the individual one, but the love of the Spirit for humanity.” (p. 55)

‘Abdu’l-Bahá had such an easy way of leading into a meaningful conversation. He would begin “with some simple reference to a natural thing, the weather, food, a stone, tree, water, the prison, a garden or a bird, our coming, or some little act of service, and this base would be woven into a parable and teaching of wisdom and simplicity, showing the oneness of all Spiritual Truth, and adapting it always to the life, both of the individual and of mankind. All of His words are directed toward helping men to live. Unless questions of metaphysics, dogmas and doctrines be introduced, He seldom mentions them. He speaks easily, clearly, in brief phrases, each of which is a gem.” (pp. 33-34)

His every instruction was geared to help the living live. And His only wish was that the word and will of God sink deep into the heart of man and conquer it.

The miracle of ‘Akká—a mighty Revelation emerging from prison walls over the face of the planet—must have astounded many a mortal. But to those who had become spiritually alive, there was less mystery—they were keyed in to the Lord of the universe and they understood. “... after a week, a day, or an hour, they return to their distant homes, all filled with love, most of their questions unasked and forgotten, curious no longer, but satisfied and overflowing with love to the human race and a great longing to bear the word of Revelation to their friends, and to serve every creature of God without regard to family, race or religion. The inexpressible happiness of the Spirit possesses each one of them, and he wants the whole world to have it.” (p. 50)

Yes, Mr. Carl Scheffler, who was with Chase on pilgrimage, was right when he referred to the rugged, stone steps leading to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, saying, “ ‘Those are the steps up to heaven’ ”. (p. 48)

Love and Harmony in the Penal Fortress

A modest pilgrim to ‘Akká, while ‘Abdu’l-Bahá was yet a Prisoner in the penal fortress, recorded his visit in a few small pages and then signed this little gem simply “Roy”.

What most impressed this early pilgrim was the spirit of sacrifice which he found among the Bahá’ís in the “Most Great Prison.” He noted that “Nowhere have I witnessed such love, such perfect harmony. The desire of those in that prison is to serve one another.” (Knock and It Shall Be Opened Unto You, Roy. p. 1.)

He was aware of the “bitter antagonism” which existed among the followers of different religious bodies. “For example, a Jew and a Muḥammedan would refuse to sit at meat together: a Hindu to draw water from the well of either. Yet, in the house of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá we found Christians, Jews, Muḥammedans, Zoroastrians, Hindus, blending together as children of the one God, living in perfect love and harmony.” (p. 1)

Having arrived by boat in Haifa, he traveled the ten miles by shore to ‘Akká in a large-wheeled carriage. “... two streams had to be forded. The smooth, hard sand at the edge of the Mediterranean is the road, and as we drove along, the waves would frequently wash up against the horses’ feet. The little horses knew that the sand was hardest at the water’s edge, and they followed the waves as they washed up and receded, traveling in scallops, as it were. It is a low, sandy coast and the outline is broken only by an occasional clump of date palms and tall cactus plants. We passed here and there an Arab on horseback, usually a long rifle pointing above his shoulder; also a number of natives with their flowing garments girded up into their belts to give greater freedom and to offer less resistance to the wind, which at times blew with considerable force. Above the water line the sand seemed to be constantly shifting into irregular mounds, some of them as much as fifteen or twenty feet in height.” (p. 4)

In ‘Akká the streets were narrow and winding but they soon stopped at an entrance to a house. They passed through a courtyard. Ascending a “long flight of stone steps”, he arrived at an upper court and was taken to a large room facing the sea and in view of the crumbling remains of once mighty fortifications. He was the guest of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

In about an hour the Master arrived and said, “Welcome! Welcome!”

Then He spoke in Persian with an interpreter. After saying that “The Cause of God is like a tree—its fruit is love”, He asked how the believers were. Happy that they were becoming more united He replied, ‘This news is the cause of My happiness, for the more they are united the more they will receive God’s confirmation. They must love one another. Each must devote and sacrifice himself and what he has for the other. I, Myself, sacrifice My life for all.’ ” (pp. 5-6.)

From the pilgrim’s room could be seen a small garden with a fountain. Close by was a tent in which the Master received many people who wished to interview Him. Known not only for His wisdom but also for His justice, He was asked for explanations of religious passages, for solutions to family problems and for advice in business quarrels. He made no distinction among the peoples of differing religions. Though untaught in the schools of men, priests, learned men and government officials consulted with Him and wished the advice of this Man whom they regarded as their Friend.

“Friday mornings at seven there is another picture. Near the tent in the garden one may see an assemblage of the abject poor—the lame, the halt and the blind—seldom less than a hundred. As ‘Abdu’l-Bahá passes among them He will be seen to give to each a small coin, and to add a word of sympathy or cheer; often an inquiry about those at home; frequently He sends a share to an absent one. It is a sorry procession as they file slowly away, but they all look forward to this weekly visit, and indeed it is said that this is the chief means of sustenance for some of them. Almost any morning, early, He may be seen making the rounds of the city, calling upon the feeble and the sick; many dingy abodes are brightened by His presence.” (p. 7)

Roy noted that little birds loved to come also. They flew right into the rooms. As the dining-room door was usually open, they happily ate the crumbs from the table.

According to the Persian custom, dinner in the evening was at nine o’clock. It was then that the Master taught those who were gathered together.

[Page 7] During his last meal with ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, He “broke a quantity of bread into His bowl; then asking for the plates of the pilgrims He gave to each of us a portion. When the meal was finished, He said, ‘I have given you to eat from My bowl—now distribute My Bread among the people.’ ” (p. 9)

The Gateway to Heaven

Ten Days in the Light of Akká records the early pilgrimage of Julia Grundy. Red anemones carpeted field and mountain, heralding the coming of spring.

She came to know the prison city of ‘Akká, “home of exiles and prisoners of the Turkish Government. A few merchants and bazaars comprise its present meagre commerce although in former times it was an important market for Syrian products. It is the residence of a governor and various officials. The inhabitants generally are poor and wretched; evidences of poverty and squalor everywhere. Haifa has absorbed the business vitality of ‘Akká. The city looks like a catacombs with the roof lifted up; heavy walls, a labyrinth of passages, narrow streets and dark alleys leading in every direction. But the spiritual atmosphere which surrounds us here is unmistakable and uplifting. Here in this unholy yet holy place we have been taught that the peace, power and knowledge of God can only be attained by severance from the things of earth and freedom from the influences of transitory surroundings. ‘Akká is to us a gateway of Heaven.” (p. 70)

Mightily impressed with the “holy history” of Mount Carmel, she was told that not only had Elijah and Jesus spent part of Their lives there, but that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá loved this holy mountain of God and had at times stayed overnight in its caves—to pray and commune with God. Once He attempted to bring a message to the Carmelite Monastery, but He would not be heard. Dejected, He returned to ‘Akká, “walking the whole distance of nine miles.” (p. 6)

Spiritual knowledge and wisdom flowed from the lips of the blessed Master. How true it was, as she was told, that “ ‘The more you see of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the more you will realize the inexhaustible fountain of knowledge within Him. He is the “Bazaar” of God, where everything humanity needs may be found without money and without price. In Him there is always something new to learn and possess; always some new thought in His words and explanations. What you receive from Him is measured by your capacity.’ ” (p. 106)

Concerning the Second Coming of Christ, He said, “ ‘In the Book of the Zend Avesta the Zoroastrians are awaiting the coming of two Manifestations. Also in the Old Testament Scriptures there is the promise of Elijah and Messiah. In the Gospel of the New Testament they are expecting the Father and the Second Coming of Christ. Likewise in the Qur’án the Muhammadans have the promise of the Imám Mahdi and Christ. In brief all the Holy Scriptures announce the coming of two Manifestations and these two Manifestations are the Báb and the Blessed Perfection.’ ” (p. 61)

She heard the Master tell a little-known story. “ ‘The disciples of Jesus passing along the road and seeing a dead dog, remarked how offensive and disgusting a spectacle it was. The Christ turning to them said, “Yes, but see how white and beautiful are his teeth;”—thus teaching that there is some good in everything.’ ” (p. 109) So, too, He taught that one should always look for the good and not for the bad.

Super-psychiatrist that He was, He taught that “ ‘We should not be occupied with our failings and weakness but concern ourselves about the will of God so that it may flow through us, thereby healing these human infirmities.’ ” (p. 11)

At one time the author asked the Master, “ ‘What shall I say to those who state that they are satisfied with Christianity and do not need this present Manifestation?’ His reply was clear: ‘Let them alone. What would they do if a former king had reigned and a new king was now seated upon the throne? They must acknowledge the new king or they are not true subjects of the Kingdom. Last year there was a springtime. Can a man say “I do not need a new springtime this year,—the old springtime is enough for me?” No! The new spring must come to fill the earth with beauty and brightness.’ ” (p. 40)

She described a beautiful supper at which many friends were welcomed by the Master Himself. He passed out napkins, embraced and found places for each. All were individually anointed with attar of rose. He served pilau, a Persian rice dish, to each guest. There were also oranges and rice pudding. “Throughout the supper which was very simple in its character and appointment, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá was the Servant of the believers. This was indeed a spiritual feast where love reigned. The whole atmosphere was love, joy and peace.” (p. 74)

One day He sent for her. His words were brimming with love and inspiration: “ ‘I want you to carry away from ‘Akká the joy and peace of the spiritual life.’ ” (p. 38) “ ‘The true pleasure and happiness depend upon the spiritual perception and enjoyment. The powers of mind are the bounties of God given to man to lead him toward spiritual happiness. The highest grace in man is to love God. Love of God, knowledge of God is the greatest, the only real happiness, because it is nearness to God. This is the Kingdom of God. To love God is to know Him. To know Him is to enter His Kingdom and be near Him. This is what I desire for you;—that you may walk in this path.’ ” (p. 39)

---

(It must be understood that these accounts are “in the class of pilgrim’s notes”. The words attributed to the Master may not be completely authentic, but they catch His message and spirit. Regarded in this light, Shoghi Effendi permitted the use of “pilgrim’s notes.” This is not intended to be an exhaustive study.)

To be continued

---

National Youth Committee of the Tonga and Cook Islands.

[Page 8]

Malagasy Republic—First Annual Convention

Members of the first National Spiritual Assembly of the Malagasy Republic with Hand of the Cause Dr. Muhájir are: front row, left to right: Mr. Shayani Azizu’llah, Treasurer; Dr. Ratomahenina Vincent; Mrs. Razaka Razafimboahangy; Miss Ravaomanana Georgette, Corresponding Secretary; Mr. Razaka Guy, Vice-Chairman. Back row: Mr. Moutou José, Recording Secretary; Mr. Rakotomalala Félix; Mr. Andriatovoson Salomon, Chairman; Mr. Rabemanantsoa.

During Riḍván, 1972, the historic first National Convention of the Bahá’ís of the Malagasy Republic was held. This is located to the east of Africa, the Island of Madagascar. The photographs were taken in front of the national Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds in Tananarive. The Universal House of Justice was represented by Hand of the Cause Dr. Muhájír. Among those attending were: Continental Counsellor S. Fatheázam; Auxiliary Board member Mr. R. Thandrayen; Mr. E. Lutchmaya representing the mother Assembly, that of the Indian Ocean; and the Mother- Pioneer of the Island, Mrs. M. Munsiff.

[Page 9]

Rwanda Holds First National Convention and Election

The first National Convention of Rwanda was held on April 27 and 28, 1972, with Hand of the Cause of God Dr. A. Mühlschlegel representing The Universal House of Justice. Present were the delegates, Auxiliary Board member Mr. Mutabazi and Mr. Gamal Rushdy, representing the mother Assembly of Burundi. For two days before the Convention, delegates attended a teaching conference in which they were deepened in preparation for the National Convention.

At Riḍván, 1972, there were sixteen Assemblies and seventy-five localities where Bahá’ís reside in Rwanda.

Early pioneers to this country were Mr. and Mrs. Collison who were named Knights of Bahá’u’lláh by the beloved Guardian. The Collisons went to Uganda in 1952 and the next year to Rwanda-Burundi but were forced by the Belgian government to leave in 1955. In 1966, Dr. and Mrs. Ta’eed of Írán arrived, and are now members of the National Spiritual Assembly. Also in 1966 Jackton Kayemba of Kenya came to Rwanda but returned to Kenya in 1971.

Systematic efforts are made to deepen in the Faith. A childrens’ class, for both Bahá’ís and non-Bahá’ís was started in August. It has ninety students from the ages of five through fourteen. Some of the children assist in teaching and are enthusiastic in learning prayers as well as the principles and history of the Faith. They have also interested many parents.

The first National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Rwanda elected at Riḍván, 129. Front row, left to right: Semuhungu, Vice-Chairman; Bifuko, Secretary; Mrs. Ta’eed, Treasurer; Hand of the Cause Dr. Mühlschlegel; Muderhwa. Back row: Dr. Ta’eed, Chairman; Chigaga, Batsinduka, Higiro, Semanyenzi.

Class for children, both Bahá’í and non-Bahá’í, held at the Bahá’í Center in Kigali, Rwanda, taken on August 7, 1972. Mrs. Ta’eed is giving lessons in French and Mr. Semanyenzi is translating into the vernacular, Kinyarwanda.

[Page 10]

FRANCE-AMERICA: HAND IN HAND

“The stage is set. The hour propitious. The signal is sounded. Bahá’u’lláh’s spiritual battalions are moving into position”.

(Shoghi Effendi, Citadel of Faith, p. 26)

These words, written by the beloved Guardian Shoghi Effendi on June 5th, 1947, referring to the commencement of an epoch “inaugurating the systematic conquest of the European continent by the organized body of the ‘apostles of Bahá’u’lláh’ ” could not have been more appropriate than for June 29th, 1972, twenty-five years later.

Thirteen young Americans had just arrived in Paris. Tired and rumpled after the long plane ride from New York but filled with the love of Bahá’u’lláh, they were determined to raise His call in all of France. I found them at the Bahá’í Center in Paris, surrounded by guitars, sleeping bags, and mounds of luggage. The large room was filled to capacity, overflowing with the French friends who had turned out in force. I entered the room very quietly, for all were deep in prayer. After months of planning and preparation in the United States and France, Operation “Mains dans la Mains: Europe-Amerique” was about to begin.

From the outset, the French and Americans joined hands and never let go, working side by side, tirelessly singing, walking and talking ... bringing Bahá’u’lláh’s healing Message to all who cared to listen. Our awesome task was to bring in new believers, deepen them, help win the goals of the Nine Year Plan, and as much as possible, make all of France generally aware of “La Foi Bahá’íe”.

The immediate aims were to reach the gypsies outside Paris in the north, the villagers near Toulouse in the southwest, strengthen the communities of Metz, Lyon and Toulouse by adding to their numbers, and to bring Local Spiritual Assemblies into being in Strasbourg and in Bastia on the Island of Corsica. The Americans were assigned to specific teams for the duration of the campaign, while the French team members came and went. Two teams had orders to stay in one locality during July, moving on to another goal in August. The other two teams spent the entire campaign in Strasbourg and Bastia, Corsica, the two most important goals in France.

The French friends had prepared for us with open hearts and pocketbooks. Their often expressed gratitude would have been embarrassing in other circumstances, but we knew their desire was the same as ours, to give all we had to guarantee the success of this mission. There was never a time that the French and Americans were not united in purpose, proving ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s repeated promises that only through unity, love and fellowship, will we know success.

During the last days of the Americans’ participation

Americans and French teaching teams on Corsica.

[Page 11] in France’s efforts, these victories were assured. Prior to the commencement of the “Hand in Hand: Europe-America” effort, there were 450 Bahá’ís registered in France. On August 22, the teams had a total of 150 declarations, 128 for France and 22 for neighboring countries. The goal Local Spiritual Assemblies were assured, and the French community was forging ahead with its scheduled follow-up plans.

Can one find words to describe the awakening of a soul? How many times we heard “Bien sur, bien sur” (of course, of course) as we told the Message of Bahá’u’lláh!

The locked doors and silence of the lovely old church in the tiny village of La Gardelle bore witness to the fact that the priest was no longer there. Four years ago he left to get married. The lady Mayor welcomed the Bahá’ís with the comment, “The youth need something”.

We wandered in the village, inviting the people to our evening program and the young people, with nothing to do on a hot summer’s afternoon, walked with us. Asking questions, they stayed near us all day. That night the “New Garden” road show performed. We showed slides; we told them why we were there, and we had fifteen declarations! The youth had brought their parents with them, and the ages of the new Bahá’ís ranged from 12 years to 56! One woman immediately offered her home for future Bahá’í meetings. The later reports received at the National Center in Paris were filled with confirmations of the strength of these new believers and the continued expansion of the Faith in the area.

Corsica, the Island of Napoleon’s birth, the island of tourists and mountains, surrounded by an incredibly blue sea, is inhabited by independent strong men and beautiful women. Mentioned specifically by Shoghi Effendi and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Corsica had more than forty-nine declarations. The two newspapers wrote regularly of the Bahá’ís and their activities in the “Salle de Boxe” (our Bahá’í Center was the local boxing ring). Some of the articles were sarcastic and derogatory, but even those quoted the Teachings accurately!

At Padua, attending the Conference are, left to right: Jene Bellows, Mrs. Fatheázam, Hand of the Cause Mr. Faizí, European Project Coordinator Mrs. Lea Nys, Mrs. Claire Honigman, Secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly of France.

Bahá’ís in Strasbourg. Mrs. Mimi McClellan, (second from left) and Dr. Sam McClellan, tall man in background, taught with the team after the Padua Conference.

Brutally ravished by wars of centuries, inured, hardened, embittered, and tradition bound, Europe is not an easy place to teach. In general, the older people were the most difficult. The young girls are sheltered and bound by a double standard of behavior, and seem not particularly interested in “serious” things. But the young men! How they are searching! Their hatred of war has been made evident on buildings and walls. They were hot to argue politics, and required time and patience as we redefined the issues.

But there are gems deep in the heart of Europe, waiting to be mined. We told it “like it is,” as we have done in the South of the United States. We told and told, and we found the waiting souls were the oppressed people, summer university students from former French colonies, workers and the villagers. How eagerly Bahá’u’lláh’s Message was received! How the new believers devoured the books! And they asked questions, and taught, and brought their friends, and answered questions, and were impatient with us, because we didn’t tell more people.

On every side there were victories and confirmations. We had many tests, but why try to remember them? As I look back on the events of this summer, mental pictures flash one on top of another. I can feel again the grasp of hands, and the French greeting of a kiss on both cheeks. I see smiles and light-filled eyes. I remember heart-bursting moments of pure happiness that washed away physical exhaustion. Once again I’m with the young team members, American and European, as they drove themselves day and night ... tirelessly, patiently, lovingly teaching the Faith. Bogged down by language and cultural differences, they nevertheless emerged as mature Bahá’ís, a working unit through prayers, consultation, crazy jokes and total commitment.

I also see my gift from the Bahá’ís of France. A picture of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá standing in front of the Eiffel Tower faces me across my desk. The Master loved France, and surely helped us to win the goals. Didn’t Shoghi Effendi, the Sign of God on earth, assure us with these words, “The Author of the Plan that has set so titanic an enterprise in motion is Himself mounted at the head of these battalions, and leads them to capture the cities of men’s hearts.”?*

There is no conclusion to this story. For it is just the beginning. Certainly France will never be the same ... nor will we.

—Jene Bellows

*From Citadel of Faith, page 26

FLASH: New declarations in France as of September, 138 in France, 79 in Corsica; total 217 declarations!

[Page 12]

National Conference in Oruro, Bolivia

More than three hundred friends from all parts of Bolivia attended the National Bahá’í Conference held in Oruro, Bolivia on August 11-13, 1972, under the auspices of the South American Board of Counsellors.

Before the opening of the Conference the new Bahá’í National Institute in Oruro was inaugurated, fulfilling a long-cherished supplementary goal.

Three languages were used during the program of deepening, stimulating the friends to go out and gain victories for the Faith during this last blessed year of the Nine Year Plan. Emphasis was placed on teaching activities in Bolivia.

At the same time as the Conference there were public and radio talks; also an exhibition was held in the local Municipal Library which attracted about 2,000 people, including many of the university students.

Groups of friends from various parts of the country had prepared dances and music typical of their regions. Among these dances, rarely seen, was one performed by a group of Cochabamba campesinos, called the “Sikuris”. Entering with large disks resembling Japanese parasols, made of reeds tipped with a variety of bright colored feathers placed on their heads, the friends sway back and forth giving the impression of an improvised shelter under which small groups dance in circles clockwise and counter-clockwise to the accompaniment of plaintive flute music and a strong booming drum-beat. This dance attracted many of the people of the city and it seemed to join them all in the happiness of the occasion.

Bahá’ís carrying some of the 250 balloons to the main plaza in Saenz Peña to release, and carry the word to the surrounding country.

The Conference resulted in a new sense of dedication for the Bahá’ís. Afterwards, a follow-up teaching project continued for fifteen days in the city. This attracted people to the new Institute for deepening and also to see the exhibition, transferred to the Institute.

[Page 13] Group inside the new Oruro Bahá’í National Institute on August 28, 1972 showing Bahá’ís and some of the 120 new believers who came in during the fifteen-day follow-up teaching project.

---

Wilmette Pioneer Training Institute—September 7-10, 1972

This was the largest of the series of Pioneer Training Institutes hosted in Wilmette. Invitations were sent to over fifty volunteers who are ready to leave for a pioneering post before December.

[Page 14]

THE GREAT SAFARI

of Hand of the Cause Rúḥíyyih Khánum

By Violette Nakhjavání, Companion

Part ten

Almost two years after the “Rabbani African Safari” had crossed from Uganda into Congo Kinshasa, as it was then called, and more than a thousand miles had been traversed through that country and through the Central African Republic, Chad and Niger, now we two, with the Land Rover were set ashore at the port of Matadi, again in Congo Kinshasa, but now the country had a new name, Zaïre, both more descriptive and beautiful.

We arrived on December 12, 1971, and as the boat was approaching the dock we could see a small group of friends holding up a large poster of welcome. The Bahá’ís who had come to meet us included the only Bahá’í of Matadi and three Bahá’ís of Kinshasa who had waited for us two days, uncertain of the time our cargo boat was expected to arrive. The little band eagerly looked for the face of their beloved Hand of the Cause, Rúḥíyyih Khánum.

Through the help of the Matadi Bahá’í who happened to be working in the Customs office, we were able to get the car and ourselves cleared within a short time. Then began the overland journey of 2,500 miles which took us across the country from west to south-east in a period of seven weeks, visiting Bahá’ís in twenty-six centers. Amatu’l-Bahá addressed almost 3,000 Bahá’ís and non-Bahá’ís during this period in over thirty-eight meetings, representing over eighty localities. Some of the friends walked over fifty kilometers to meet Amatu’l-Bahá, such was their enthusiasm, and many of these were mothers each with a baby tied to her back.

The Kinshasa community, containing many young people, had the privilege and joy of meeting with Rúḥíyyih Khánum and listening to her words of love and wisdom at a day-long conference where over forty-five Bahá’ís had gathered from different localities in this immense city. Amatu’l-Bahá spoke at length about the beloved Guardian’s trip to their country in 1940 during World War II, when they had traversed it from south to north. She recalled that this particular African country had always attracted him and visiting it had made him happy.

The questions the friends asked both in cities and villages revealed the depth of their knowledge of the Teachings and their deep love for the Faith. For example, in this Kinshasa conference one of the friends asked: “What is the meaning of ‘the Sun of Bahá has set?’.” He was referring to the cable ‘Abdu’l-Bahá had sent to the Bahá’ís after the Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh. Rúḥíyyih Khánum explained: “This refers to the Sun of the physical existence of Bahá’u’lláh on this earth and not to the Sun of His Dispensation, as that Sun will shine for at least a thousand years.”

At the end of our ten-day stay in Kinshasa, once again Rúḥíyyih Khánum met with the Bahá’ís in the home of one of the pioneers where over fifty believers were present. She strongly emphasized the duty of the friends to go out and teach as well as to participate in the activities of their community, especially since they had just received permission to hold meetings in the Province of Kinshasa.

Bahá’ís of Kinshasa, Zaïre, meeting with Rúḥíyyih Khánum

[Page 15] During Rúḥíyyih Khánum’s stay in the capital she was received by the Minister of Information. Unfortunately, the President was touring the Provinces during the entire period of her visit so it was impossible for her to meet him, but the interview with the Minister of Information unlocked the doors of publicity. Now, for the first time, the Faith was openly and widely proclaimed in the press as well as on television and radio. Because of past events, Zaïre is necessarily vigilant; without approval from high officials of the government, the publicity which Rúḥíyyih Khánum received would have been impossible.

The Minister was an extremely polished and charming gentleman and received Amatu’l-Bahá, Dr. Navidi and myself with great courtesy. Amatu’l-Bahá told him of our long journey by Land Rover, pointing out that this was the greatest compliment two women could pay to Africa and its people. She also voiced some of her ideas on the spiritual destiny of Africa. He was visibly impressed and said that he himself would arrange for a press conference. He also presented each of us with a beautiful set of voice records of some of the most important public speeches of President Mabutos.

The press conference the Minister arranged was attended by over forty people and the words of Rúḥíyyih Khánum were recorded for both national radio and television programs. A number of favorable newspaper and magazine articles were published, not only in the capital but also in the larger newspapers of some of the Provinces.

In a teachers’ training college in Ngiri Ngiri, Amatu’l-Bahá spoke to over 450 students and teachers on the much appreciated subject “The Spiritual Destiny of Africa.” Two young men reporters for the school magazine had a long and interesting interview with Rúḥíyyih Khánum and were keenly interested in the Teachings of Bahá’u’lláh.

In Kasai

The Kasai, in the central Provinces of Zaïre, is a very strictly controlled area as the country’s diamond mines are located there and, although travelers do receive permits to visit, usually it takes at least six weeks for the permits to be issued. Because of this prospect of delay Rúḥíyyih Khánum turned to the American Embassy for assistance. The Ambassador himself received her and gave instructions that a permit for both of us should be applied for on an urgent basis. This brought good results.

Port Francqui Bahá’ís with Rúḥíyyih Khánum

Amatu’l-Bahá addressing 400 students at the Ecole Normale Officiele de Ngiri Ngiri, Kinshasa, Zaïre.

Within a week we were able to load the Land Rover once more on a boat, this time a barge of a river steamer going up the Zaire river, formerly called the Congo. It branched off into the Kasai river.

We eventually disembarked at Port Francqui in Kasai. Auxiliary Board member Mrs. Ola Pawlowska, a pioneer in Zaïre for ten years, accompanied us on this trip from Kinshasa to Lubumbashi, which was the end of Amatu’l-Bahá’s tour of that country. Mrs. Pawlowska had lived in Luluabourg for four years, and greatly assisted the development of the Faith in both Western and Eastern Kasai. She knew every place there and most of the believers. Without her help and the help of our dear Congolese Auxiliary Board member Sylvain Ngindu, who for three weeks acted as translator for Amatu’l-Bahá, such a satisfying and successful trip as we had would have been impossible.

Eight Days on a Barge

At sunset on December 22, the pioneers and many of the Zaïre believers waved goodbye to us as we started on our eight-day voyage up the great internal waterway of this country, one of the largest waterways in all of Africa. As one leaves Kinshasa the river spreads out into what appears to be an immense lake. We proceeded up a very swift current appearing, undoubtedly, as a traveling island. Our boat pushed a cargo barge before it and pulled three barges attached to its right side. In the front barge was the Land Rover—we ardently hoped. The three other barges were for passengers, second class down to fourth class. Our own boat was for first class. Hundreds of passengers filled every available space. The lower decks of these barges served as market, restaurant and bar. A loud-speaker blared music from the beer bar all day and most of the night. Many women on the barges conducted successful businesses feeding the passengers and selling all kinds of merchandise. At every port along the route where we stopped, people would come on board to shop at our floating market. An exciting sight was the way men and sometimes women in dugout canoes would approach in the swift river current to reach the side of our barge, board it, attach their canoes and sell fresh fish, food, vegetables and fruit to the passengers. At one time I counted over twenty canoes tied up to the side.

In a small village, where our boat stopped for an hour or so, among the traders who boarded to sell their woven mats were two Bahá’ís who recognized Mrs. Pawlowska and excitedly rushed to her. They were so happy to be introduced to Rúḥíyyih Khánum. We were delighted to see that they quickly sold their beautiful handwork to the passengers. It was so sweet to see one of these men holding a Bahá’í pamphlet in the local language of Tshiluba and showing it to everyone he knew, bringing them to us to shake hands and telling his friends that our party also belonged to the Faith written about in the pamphlet. The devotion and enthusiasm of the Congolese believers is truly unique and a joy to see.

At the end of this happy week’s journey we disembarked at Port Francqui, reclaimed the Land Rover safely and started to drive to town when we noticed

[Page 16] On the Kasai river barge Rúḥíyyih Khánum is with Bahá’ís who came on board to sell their mats. Auxiliary Board member Mrs. Ola Pawlowska is to her right.

thick, smelly smoke coming from the engine. We quickly opened the hood and discovered to our horror that rats had built a large nest on top of the engine out of rags, cotton waste, wood shavings, leaves, paper and other odd objects. The heat of the engine had set these on fire and had we not noticed it immediately and put it out, this could have been very dangerous indeed.

At Port Francqui

Rúḥíyyih Khánum paid a courtesy visit to the District Officer. In the course of their conversation she assured him that a cardinal principle of the Faith is loyalty of Bahá’ís to their government. He asked her: “Why is it that with all these wonderful teachings of love and brotherhood all the religions of the world propagate, the people of the world are in such a state of disunity, inharmony and strife?” Amatu’l-Bahá told him that Shoghi Effendi used to say if you want to forge several iron rods into one piece you have to place them in the fire; not until they become red hot can they be forged into one solid piece. Humanity is in much the same state. Men have refused to respond to the call of Bahá’u’lláh to unite and promote world peace. Their hearts are cold and hard; therefore it would seem the suffering of some kind of fiery ordeal can alone weld us into a world of peace and brotherhood. She explained how in every age, when the Manifestation of God appears, He offers mankind two roads, the straight and easy one of accepting Him and His call and the long and hard road of suffering which ultimately brings man down to his knees. We are now witnessing the consequences of man’s rejection of the call of Bahá’u’lláh in this day. The District Officer was quite impressed by these words.

During the two days we stayed in Port Francqui we met with Bahá’ís twice. On the first day several Bahá’ís came to the hotel to visit with us. On the second day a nice meeting was held in the home of one of the friends where over twenty people gathered, more than half of them Bahá’ís, and the rest eagerly listening and asking questions. At the end of this meeting one young man accepted the Faith.

Bahá’ís of Zaïre are well versed in the Teachings and have the keenest appreciation of Bahá’í literature. All through the country the loudest cry was for more literature, especially the Words of Bahá’u’lláh. Next came the demand for more pioneers, not only to settle among them but also to travel and visit.

Questions and Answers

The deep questions asked were an indication of their understanding. One asked: “If a man is sick during the Fast period and unable to keep it, can he fast some other nineteen days after the Fast period is over?” Rúḥíyyih Khánum said that the Bahá’í month set aside by Bahá’u’lláh for the purpose of fasting is clearly defined, but in the Writings we are left free to fast any time we choose but this, however, does not replace the Fast ordained by God in this day.

Another asked: “What is the wisdom and meaning of the genuflections in the long obligatory prayer?” Amatu’l-Bahá replied that in the first place Bahá’u’lláh has given us the choice of three prayers and if we do not feel inclined to go through these movements we can always choose the short obligatory prayer. Then she said: “In your own traditions you have special ways of approaching a great chief or king. You prostrate yourself or kneel down or in some form to show your submission, your humility and utter nothingness in front of the great figure of the chief or king. It is in this same spirit that we approach Almighty God in these prayers. The genuflections are a symbol of our submission.” The desire to follow the laws and ordinances of Bahá’u’lláh is so deep and beautiful in the Congolese that we often marvelled at them.

Although in Zaïre as in the rest of Africa—indeed, like most of the world, drinking is a deeply rooted evil and wide-spread, in all these weeks we traveled in that country, neither in towns nor in villages did we ever come across a Bahá’í who showed evidence of drinking, or smelling of alcohol. Not only do the Bahá’ís of Zaïre follow this important law of Bahá’u’lláh regarding not using alcoholic beverages but the Congolese go even further. Many of them even abstain from any form of trade which involves liquor.

Palm wine is made in many parts of Africa from a special variety of palm from which the sap is tapped. This is usually a way the women earn a little extra money for their family, and some families have inherited and hold special plantations for this purpose. We came across in several villages, Bahá’ís who without any advice from the outside, on their own accord had decided that if Bahá’u’lláh forbad drinking then it must be very harmful indeed for mankind and they would have nothing to do with earning money from such a harmful business.

In one village Bahá’í women consulted their husbands and decided to give up wine-making and replace their only means of making a livelihood by having a small stall in front of their huts and selling items such as soap, matches and needles, and so on. Their men-folk agreed to supplement the income by making charcoal and selling it at the market. Their business flourished so well that they decided part of their gain should go to the Bahá’í Fund!

Another distinction of the Congolese believers was the fact that often men, women and children, in towns as well as villages know prayers of Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and the Báb by heart. Both Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá repeatedly urged the believers to commit to memory the prayers and Writings, a teaching far too often overlooked and neglected by the Bahá’ís everywhere.

On December 30, 1971 we said goodbye to the dear Bahá’ís of Port Francqui and started our long, arduous but wonderful overland trip across the south-east part of Zaïre. By the end of this journey we came to the

[Page 17] Meeting at Mweke. The man next to Rúḥíyyih Khánum is the first believer of Kasai.

conclusion that no matter how ghastly some of the roads were in Cameroon and Nigeria, Zaïre still holds top place for the worst roads ever!

In Zaïre when traveling in the interior, if the Bahá’ís have no accommodations to offer you, then the only choice is to stay at the Missions where generally guest houses are available. In the town of Mweke we spent two nights in the Catholic Mission and ate our meals with the Bishop of this district and eight ordained priests, all Belgians.

After lunch on New Year’s day an interesting conversation took place between Rúḥíyyih Khánum and the Bishop. Amatu’l-Bahá asked the Bishop to explain to her how the Catholic Church in this age of scientific facts and modern knowledge understands and interprets such Biblical stories as the creation of Adam and Eve and the world in six days and so on. In brief he said that the way he understands it and the Catholic Church explains it is this: “Two men may approach the sea; one is a poet and the other a scientist; the poet describes the sea as he sees it, its beauty, color, the sound of its waves, the glow of the sun on the water, and so on. The scientist does not see it in these terms but rather in those of evaluating its components, its evolutionary history, etc.” It was an extremely subtle answer and Rúḥíyyih Khánum enjoyed it very much and used the example herself on more than one occasion.

We had a very pleasant meeting with the three Mweke Bahá’ís and several of their friends and neighbors. The first Bahá’í of Kasai lives in that town and is proud of the fact that as early as 1956 he was the first to respond to the call of Bahá’u’lláh. In this ‎meeeting meeting‎ Rúḥíyyih Khanum spoke a great deal on the power of prayers to attract more souls to the Teachings of Bahá’u’lláh.

(To be continued)

---

Whole Villages Become Bahá’í

The August 1972 issue of the bulletin Bahá’í International News Service relates several instances of whole villages or a large proportion of them becoming believers in the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh.

Counsellor Yan Kee Leong, after recent travels, reported that in visiting the Hoi Poi District in Laos “he met some of the 1,800 believers who begged that an English-speaking Bahá’í might settle there and teach their children.”

Accompanied by a devoted pioneer, he then visited the village of Nam Buei, where five different tribes reside. One of these, the Laotheung, are the original people of Laos, now considered by non-Bahá’ís as a low class of people. The Counsellor and the believer who accompanied him spent the night in the home of the Chief of this tribe and all of the members of the tribe in this village accepted the Faith. The pioneer promised to return and deepen the new believers.

In Thailand Mr. Yan Kee Leong had visited a village two years ago, and then one-half the village became Bahá’í. During a recent visit, when all the residents were at home, the entire village became Bahá’í after hearing an inspiring talk by Mr. Leong.

In spite of a painful sprain of his knee, the Counsellor, Yan Kee Leong, with some believers walked a half a day to the mountain village of Ban Hui Tong where the Chief had taught himself to read and write in Thai. With a translator ably assisting, the entire village accepted the Cause.

In Colombia, two believers traveled to Santa Lucia for a five-day visit where they were joined by the resident Bahá’ís in a campaign which resulted in the enrollment of 434 new believers, with one-tenth of the entire villagers now Bahá’ís.

In the Dominican Republic, the village of Corral de los Indios has only four adults who are not now believers in Bahá’u’lláh.

[Page 18]

ALASKA SUMMER SCHOOL

On July 8-13, 1972 Bahá’ís from all over Alaska gathered under sunny skies in Juneau for the fifteenth Alaska Bahá’í Summer School held in the Little Theatre Building. Some fifty friends and families attended.

Vinson Brown, naturalist, publisher and author from Healdsburg, California, presented classes on Indian Prophecies.

Dr. Jalil Mahmoudi, associate professor of sociology and languages at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, gave lectures on the subject of Islam.

Later each day, Dr. Mahmoudi spoke upon “The Bahá’í Family.”

National Spiritual Assembly Member, Mrs. Georgia Haisler, elucidated “Bahá’í Morality,” using consultative workshops among the students. Doing the right thing for the right reason, and moral rectitude mark Bahá’ís as “different.”

Robin Fowler, National Spiritual Assembly member, commenced each morning’s studies with an in-depth penetration of the Administrative Order, its nonautocratic nature and beauty as a channel for the flow of the Spirit of the Faith.

The first day of classes included a noon-day observance for the Martyrdom of the Báb, and that evening Mrs. Gene Dorman gave a dramatic presentation of His life story.

Two evenings were spent concerning the Massive Encounter teaching program. The second evening featured many beautiful and humorous stories by the friends who were on the teaching teams.

One session was devoted to a review of the book, Memorials of the Faithful, stories of 70 individuals which were related by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in 1915, and which has been newly translated and published. Tom Haisler gave the review.

The presentation of The Proclamation of Bahá’u’lláh was made to Lt. Governor, the Honorable H. A. Boucher,

Faculty Alaskan Summer School. Left to right: Dr. Jalil Mahmoudi, Vinson Brown, Georgia Haisler, Robin Fowler, Howard Brown.

who welcomed the Bahá’ís very graciously.

A public meeting was held July 12 and moderated by Bob Milton which centered around the Central Figures of the Bahá’í Faith.

The Feast of Kalimát (Words) closed the Summer School’s official activities.

ALASKA BAHÁ’Í NEWS, September 1972

Annual Summer School — Juneau, Alaska, July 8-13, 1972

[Page 19] New Bahá’í community of fifty Quechua men at Patacancha in the Department of Cuzco, Peru. This village was opened just after the Panama Conference. John Kepner, pioneer, is kneeling in the foreground. Standing, to his immediate right with a big smile on his face is Anselmo Herrera, of Quechua background, from Bolivia. Facundo Cardoso, Quechua from Bolivia is not located—possibly he took this picture. To the left of John, the man with the book is the Chief of the village who also became a Bahá’í. Directly in front of John are the Chief’s cains and conch shells.

New Quechua Believers in Peru

In May, just after the Dedication of the Panama House of Worship and the Panama Conference, two Bolivian Quechua Indian teachers, Facundo Cardosa and Anselmo Herrera accompanied by John Kepner, came to Peru on a teaching trip before returning to Bolivia. They were sent to make teaching trips into the Andean Quechua villages in the valleys of Cuzco. The first trip was made to a village called Patacancha which lies in a steep Andean valley about a half-day walk from the nearest country road. A letter from American pioneer John Kepner tells the following story of this exciting teaching trip:

“In these remote Indian villages of Cuzco only Quechua, the native language of the Incas, is spoken. We had no problem because both of the Bolivian teachers also speak the same language, being of the same noble background from Bolivia. The Quechuas of Peru, Bolivia and Ecuador are all descendents of the Incas and speak the same tongue.

“When we arrived at the village all the men, some fifty, were at work together building an humble rock school house for their children. We approached and began to help them with the piling of stones one on top of another. We asked them if they could all take a short break to listen to a new Message from God. They all agreed and so they stopped working, put on their hats and colorful ponchos and all sat down in a large semi-circle and were prepared to listen.

“Before commencing any village meeting it is the custom to announce the meeting by sounding what is called a ‘potutu’, large conch shell used to make a deep fog-horn sound which is heard echoing through the deep Andean valleys and announces to the rest of the villages that a meeting is to be held. The ‘potutus’ were sounded by the two chiefs of the village and the meeting began.

“We spoke to them in Quechua of the coming of Bahá’u’lláh, the new age, the unity of all peoples of the world and that Bahá’u’lláh’s coming is a fulfillment of their own prophecies concerning the unity of all tribes of the earth in one universal Cause of God for all peoples of the world. We spoke to them of the great spiritual destiny of the Indian people. This continued for two hours.

“After the presentation a few questions were asked. One was: ‘How do we know that what you have spoken to us about is the Truth and not just another trick like those of the Spaniards?’ Immediately Anselmo replied because it had been the same question he had asked when the Message was presented to him several years ago. The questioner was completely convinced and was the first of the group to become a Bahá’í and give his name.

“Fifty men of the Quechua community of Patacancha all accepted the Faith and declared themselves Bahá’ís. A great victory was won for The Blessed Beauty. Now we have hope that when we return there will be great enthusiasm and, God willing, all their wives will be Bahá’ís.”

---

MALAWI

A property has been acquired for the headquarters of the Faith in Malawi. It is on Mpingwe Road, Limbe, Blantyre. It is used for weekly meetings and by travel-teachers who come for deepening and instructions before going out for their teaching trips.

Malawi Goals

Assemblies	Achieved
20	23	(Increase of 10 new Assemblies during year)
Locations where Bahá’ís live
100	212	(Increase of 71 localities where Bahá’í live during year)
New believers during year—473

—MALAWI BAHÁ’Í NEWS, No. 5

[Page 20]

Bahá’ís Play Active Role in Universal Esperanto Congress

Platform at the opening session of the Esperanto Congress.

The 57th annual Universal Esperanto Congress held in Portland, Oregon July 30-August 6, and the Postcongress held in San Francisco August 7-13, are now history. Those who have been attending these annual Universal Esperanto Congresses say that this was a vigorous and successful one. For two solid weeks Esperantists from all over the world, from Africa, Australia, and from behind the Iron Curtain, associated together in peace and harmony, using only Esperanto as the means of communication. The Congress was also eminently successful Bahá’í-wise. Nine Bahá’ís were present—seven from the United States and two from Alaska.

The Bahá’ís were the only religious group with an official representative. Other organizations represented were the American Federation of Teachers; the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom; the World Federalists; UNICEF; the city of Sapporo, Japan, sister city to Portland; and the Department of Education of the State of Oregon. Governments with official representatives were Belgium, Germany, Israel, Japan, Norway and Sweden. Also, Oomoto of Japan sent a representative.

As a result of reading from the stage the letter of greeting from the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States, many people came to me afterward and told me about friends of theirs who are Bahá’ís, or described their visits to the Holy Shrines on Mt. Carmel. Everywhere I went I was recognized as the Bahá’í delegate.

Monday evening we all gathered in the room of one of the Bahá’ís and held our own Nineteen-Day Feast. We had readings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in Esperanto, an excellent period of consultation, followed by refreshments. One decision made was that when two or more meetings conflict, we should divide into groups and each group attend a meeting.

We had an opportunity to put this decision into effect the next day, Tuesday, August 1. It was necessary for me to attend a meeting of the Esperanto League for North America, since I am chairman of a national committee. At the same time, there was a meeting of Oomoto, a popular religious minority in Japan, which is attracting many young people. Their theme for the Congress was: “Eighty Years of Striving for Peace and Harmony Among Mankind.” Some of the Bahá’ís went to that meeting. Our youth delegate, Nick Athan, made friends quickly, and was able to create among them an interest in the Bahá’í Faith and to follow it up during the week. He worked ceaselessly and tirelessly, as he is also a member of the World Esperanto Youth Organization.

Wednesday morning, August 2, four of us attended the Ecumenical meeting. Their theme was: “Interfaith Cooperation.” The Chairman was Father Klimowicz of New Jersey. After a Protestant minister from The Netherlands and another Catholic priest had given their talks, they called on others present to speak, and the first one they called was Bahá’í. I told them of His prophecy that the religions would unite, wished them success in their endeavors, and offered any assistance they could use.

That same afternoon Oomoto held its annual Inter-religious Meeting. Before the Congress the Bahá’ís had received an invitation to participate, from their headquarters in Japan. In making the arrangements, we received permission to distribute Bahá’í literature at the door of the meeting hall. Their theme this year was: “Religion and Youth—How Religion Guides Young Generations.” Each speaker was given seven minutes to present his paper. Since the subject was about youth, Nick Athan was asked to prepare and present a paper. He did a beautiful piece of work, emphasizing in his talk the youthfulness of Bahá’u’lláh and the Báb and Their followers. It made a deep impression on everyone.

As a result of this meeting we were asked to make Bahá’í literature available, and with the permission of Mr. Michael Nevan, the Congress Secretary, we were able to place posters and literature in the Esperanto Information Service Department. We were the only religious group with this privilege. We also donated several pamphlets to the Esperanto Book Service.

Postcongress

The Postcongress was held the following week at the San Francisco State College and under their auspices. It was a cultural program, presenting the contributions to American culture by four ethnic groups—Indian, Negro, Mexican, and Oriental. I had been asked by the Postcongress Committee to organize an all-Indian program for Tuesday, August 8.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs in Gallup gave permission for ten members of the well-known Indian Dance Club of the Fort Wingate High School and two teachers

Miss Tamiko Kawakami of Japan

[Page 21] Ambrose Yazzie, Chief of the Navajo Dance Club at the ethnic programs in San Francisco Postcongress.

to travel to San Francisco for this purpose. The young Navajos presented a beautiful and colorful program, all the more beautiful because it was conducted entirely in Esperanto, without the need for an interpreter. All the other programs needed interpreters, except for the young Japanese and Chinese. At this program we were able to announce that they would present dances at the San Francisco Bahá’í Center the following evening, Wednesday, August 9.

As usual, many other affairs were going on at the same time; however, three Esperantists came, a gentleman from Texas and two ladies from France, who couldn’t speak a word of English. After the dances, Mr. Stone and I told some of our experiences with the Faith on the Navajo Reservation. Some literature was distributed.

The San Francisco Assembly should be commended for its initiative in taking advantage of every opportunity to proclaim the Name of Bahá’u’lláh, and for the cooperation and courtesy they showed at this time.

The Navajo Dancers presented a program at the San Francisco Indian Center on the following evening, and also appeared on TV. They went home exhausted, but happy and successful.

As a result of their fine performance, the Fort Wingate Dance Team has been invited to the fifty-eighth Universal Esperanto Congress to be held in 1973 in Belgrade, Jugoslavia.

—Roan Orloff Stone

Cover Page for Rotary Magazine

Shrine of the Báb featured at the top of the montage on the front page of the Quarterly, Rotary Israel, in observance of the tenth anniversary of District 199 of Rotary International. Bahá’u’lláh is quoted on the inside pages, including the following passage:

The time fore-ordained unto the peoples and kindreds of the earth is now come. The promises of God, as recorded in the Holy Scriptures, have all been fulfilled. Out of Zion hath gone forth the Law of God, and Jerusalem, and the hills and land thereof, are filled with the glory of His Revelation ...

---

Bahá’u’lláh Proclaimed as Fifth Buddha in Laos

A new spirit has been generated in Laos. The masses are recognizing Bahá’u’lláh. A new way of life has opened up to the people of this country!

Since Riḍván 1972, the Bahá’í Message has reached more than 20,000 people all over Laos. The number of localities where Bahá’ís reside in the Capital Province of Vientiane alone has reached 135 and the number of believers has tripled, from 5,000 to 15,000 all from the Buddhist background.

Everywhere people warmly accept Bahá’u’lláh as the coming of the Fifth Buddha, Maitriya, for Whom they have been waiting.

August 19, 1972 was an unforgettable day when four Bahá’ís set off on an eight-day teaching trip. Two local teachers, a new pioneer just arrived from Malaysia and Auxiliary Board member Fereidoun Missaghian started on this rainy day of monsoon to go to Buddhist refugee villages. They went by taxi, by truck and then on foot, past the rice paddies and villages, one after another and held large and small teaching gatherings, day and night. They visited six major refugee villages, each combined of a number of smaller villages scattered about within a mile or two in the forest. There is no way to estimate how many attended the gatherings but most

[Page 22] evenings there were a hundred or so men, women and children crammed into the house of a chieftain. Meetings lasted from 8:00 or 9:00 p.m. to midnight but sometimes until 2:00 a.m. All accepted Bahá’u’lláh.

In the refugee center Donglume, made up of twelve smaller villages, after two days and nights of continuous gatherings, the new believers were so caught up in the Teachings of the Cause that all felt they were being moved by a new spirit.

Daseng, the higher Chief, had ordered all to stop working that day and to come to hear about the new religion. At the end of each session he would stand up and give a short talk, after which he would cry loudly to the gathering “Alláh-u-Abhá, Alláh-u-Abhá”, a word he had just learned with which to praise God. Consequently others followed him and cried out “Alláh-u-Abhá, Alláh-u-Abhá”. The Bahá’í traveling teachers did not know what was happening but, similarly, were lifted out of this world. When the time came to part, all eyes were filled with tears. The villagers were assured that the teachers would return. A group of villagers of high rank accompanied the travelers for a few miles on foot, in rain and through mud which at times covered the knees. This leave-taking was a way of expressing their respect and gratitude for learning of Bahá’u’lláh and His Teachings.

---

ARGENTINE SUMMER SCHOOL

In February 1972 a successful international summer school was held in the small town of Rosario del Tala, Province of Entre Ríos. Counsellor Hooper Dunbar was present with Auxiliary Board members Mrs. Maralynn Dunbar of Argentina; Mr. Manucher Shoai from Bolivia; Mr. Ramón Moreira from Uruguay; as well as pioneers and friends from Bolivia, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, and many representatives of tribes from all over the country. Total attendance was about 250. The classes were inspiring.

The Mayor of Rosario del Tala, Mr. Solimano, was helpful in suggesting a location for the school when the committee visited him and explained something about the Faith and the purpose of the school. Not only was a beautiful place for the classes located just outside of town, but for sleeping quarters Mr. Solimano also put the Committee in touch with a Ladies’ Society which had recently finished a building destined for an Old Age Home, and at a reasonable price. The Army loaned a hundred cots and mattresses, and a bus was hired for transportation to and from quarters to classes.

A curfew was in force which Mr. Solimano thought might cause problems for those coming into the country, but told the friends that if they had any difficulties to call on him. As intimated, some fifteen friends from Uruguay were held up at the border and not permitted to enter the country. They wired the School, which reached Mr. Solimano, who telephoned immediately and cleared up this matter so the friends could attend the school.

The Mayor and his family were invited to luncheon with the Bahá’ís and on this occasion he was presented with the volume The Proclamation of Bahá’u’lláh. He was the first Mayor in this country to receive this important book. On other occasions the director of the local newspaper and the head of the Park Commission were also invited to a luncheon. Two public talks were given in the town, one particularly directed to youth.

The Summer School showed forth a wonderful spirit and was an example of unity in diversity with the various tribes and people of several national backgrounds living together as one family.

Bahá’í Representation in UN Regional Conference, Buenos Aires

Because of holding the Regional Conference of Non-Governmental Organizations affiliated with the United Nations in Buenos Aires in August, the Bahá’ís had the privilege and pleasure of receiving Dr. Victor de Araujo, representative of the Bahá’í International Community to the UN, along with other delegates: Mrs. Molly Landiver, of Bolivia; Mrs. Nilza Taetz, from Brazil; Dr. Alejandro Reid, from Chile; Mr. Mario Martínez, from Paraguay; Mr. Leopolde Caravallo, from Uruguay. The Argentine delegate was Mr. Carlos Talenti.

The Proclamation Committee of Argentina transferred its activities to the Capital to take advantage of this occasion to have a proclamation in Buenos Aires.

Dr. de Araujo arrived on Sunday, August 20, at noon. He was met at the airport by a group of about thirty Bahá’ís. In the afternoon he was received in a special meeting of the National Spiritual Assembly. In the evening the Counsellors, represented by Mr. Hooper Dunbar, held a reception in honor of Dr. de Araujo in the National Headquarters attended by about fifty friends from Buenos Aires and points near-by. On this occasion Dr. de Araujo told of the Bahá’í representation at the UN, explaining that he had been appointed by The Universal House of Justice as representative of the Bahá’í International Community, which is composed of the National Spiritual Assemblies of the world. Bahá’í delegates also spoke.

Monday night a press conference was held for Dr. de Araujo in a downtown hotel to which reporters from all the news services in the Capital were invited. This resulted in some short articles in the newspapers.

After the press conference a youth meeting was held at the National Headquarters, presided over by Counsellor Hooper Dunbar and attended by about twenty-five young people, many non-Bahá’ís.

During the week of the UN Conference, interviews with the Mayor of Buenos Aires and with a high official of the Ministry of Foreign Relations was held, and a copy of The Proclamation of Bahá’u’lláh was presented.

A public meeting was held on Tuesday night at the local Bahá’í headquarters, consisting of a panel of the delegates from Brazil, Chile and Uruguay. A reporter from La Razón came on this occasion to interview Dr. de Araujo and two National Spiritual Assembly members.

A television station in Buenos Aires featured an interview with Mr. Hooper Dunbar. Books were presented to the main library of the city.

---

Tonga and Cook Islands

Members of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Tonga and Cook Islands with Hand of the Cause John Robarts.

[Page 23]

NEW TEACHING AND DEEPENING MATERIALS

Two new particularly significant items which may be used to enhance one’s personal teaching efforts and surroundings are now available. One is a sequel to last year’s handsome Bahá’í Victory Calendar Diary; the other a unique set of “illuminated” or decorated quotations of Bahá’u’lláh.

The Bahá’í Unity Calendar Diary for B.E. 130, compiled and edited by the Audio-Visual Department at the World Centre, is an attractive, educational and unusually helpful desk calendar. Each 19-day Bahá’í month is on a separate page beginning with Naw-Rúz, B.E. 130 (21 March 1973). The days in the Gregorian calendar are clearly related to those in the Bahá’í month. The calendar serves as a convenient reminder of Bahá’í Holy Days and Feast Days and helps in becoming acquainted with and learning the Bahá’í calendar system. Each of the 23 illustrations on the theme of unity is accompanied by a quotation on the subject of unity from Bahá’í Writings. The Unity Calendar can serve as an inspiration for memorizing the quotations. Its individual pages can be mounted on colored paper to be used as picture lessons, teaching cards or study prints for teaching and deepening. Bahá’ís may wish to obtain several copies of this attractive learning tool to use as gifts or teaching aids.

The Illuminated Prayers and Passages of Bahá’u’lláh consist of ten different quotations each printed in subdued colors on individual 8.5 by 11 inch sheets of buff-colored paper. These words of the Blessed Beauty, so appropriate at such a troubled time, provide welcome inspiration and hope for today and tomorrow. They are designed to attract the eye, the mind and the heart of the beholder and to assist you in your teaching and deepening programs. The individual prayers and passages include those that begin:

“Blessed is the spot ...”

“Be generous in prosperity, and thankful in adversity ...”

“This is the Day in which God’s most excellent favors have been poured out upon men ...”

Suitable for framing or as wall charts, they can be used in homes, offices, public places, centers, schools or institutes, and are helpful in the memorization and the realization of these timeless and inspiring words. They are particularly appropriate as gifts. Certain of the quotations lend themselves to hand-coloring to add a distinctive quality and a personal touch, if you wish.

HOW TO ORDER

Both the Bahá’í Unity Calendar Diary (catalog number 20171) and the Illuminated Prayers and Passages of Bahá’u’lláh (catalog number 20052 for the assortment) may be ordered and prices may be obtained from your local librarian, publishing trust or national distribution committee, or the National Spiritual Assembly according to the established procedure in your Bahá’í community.

[Page 24]

CONTENTS

‘Abdu’l-Bahá in Lincoln Park (Photograph) 1 A Gift of Three Lives, A Letter from The Universal House of Justice 2 Glimpses of Early Bahá’í Pilgrimages 3 National Youth Committee of the Tonga and Cook Islands (Photograph) 7 Malagasy Republic—First Annual Convention (Photographs) 8 Rwanda Holds First National Convention and Election 9 France—America: Hand in Hand 10 National Conference in Oruro, Bolivia 12 Wilmette Pioneer Training Institute—September 7-10, 1972 (Photograph) 13 The Great Safari of Hand of the Cause Rúḥíyyih Khánum 14 Whole Villages Became Bahá’í 17 Alaska Summer School 18 New Quechua Believers in Peru 19 Malawi 19 Bahá’ís Play Active Role in Universal Esperanto Congress 20 Cover Page for Rotary Magazine 21 Bahá’u’lláh Proclaimed as Fifth Buddha in Laos 21 Argentine Summer School 22 Tonga and Cook Islands (Photograph, members of National Spiritual Assembly) 22 New Teaching and Deepening Materials 23 Lae Headquarters (Photograph) 24

HAVE YOU SENT IN YOUR RENEWAL TO BAHÁ’Í NEWS?

Subscription is $6.00 a year (payable in advance) in the U.S. and Canada, and is for Bahá’ís only.

FOREIGN SUBSCRIPTIONS to BAHÁ’Í NEWS: Local Assemblies, groups and individuals in countries other than the United States and Canada must inquire of their own National Spiritual Assembly. It is shipped in bulk to each National Assembly for distribution within their national area.

WORLD ORDER is a quarterly for Bahá’ís and non-Bahá’ís which is intended to stimulate, inspire, and serve thinking people in their search to find relationships between contemporary life and contemporary religious teachings and philosophy. Domestic subscription $4.50 ($3.50 for students); foreign subscription $5.00. Payable in advance.

CHILD’S WAY is published six times a year. It is interesting, attractive, and ‎uesful useful‎. Subscription is $4.50 in the U.S. and $5.00, foreign. Payable in advance.

For the above publications write:

Bahá’í Subscriber Service

415 Linden Ave.

Wilmette, Illinois 60091

NOTICE: An error has been made in numbering issues of BAHÁ’Í NEWS and was not quickly discovered. The September issue should have been No. 498 and October 499.

Newly purchased Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds for the National Spiritual Assembly of Papua and New Guinea. It is located on Swallow Road, Lae, New Guinea. It is situated in a lovely garden and behind it is a green hill which will never have many buildings on it.

Members of the Lae Youth class, held in the new national headquarters every Saturday afternoon since it was purchased.

---

CANADIAN BAHÁ’Í NEWS may be ordered by sending $4.00 for a one-year subscription (2nd Class) $6.00 airmail.

Write to: Canadian Bahá’í News Committee:

7290 Leslie St., Thornhill, Ontario, Canada

---

BAHÁ’Í NEWS is published for circulation among Bahá’ís only by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States, as a news organ reporting current activities of the Bahá’í world community.

BAHÁ’Í NEWS is edited by an annually appointed Editorial Committee: Mrs. Evelyn Hardin, Managing Editor; Miss Charlotte Linfoot, National Spiritual Assembly Representative; Mr. Rexford C. Parmelee, Mrs. Sylvia Parmelee.

Material must be received by the twenty-fifth of the second month preceding date of issue. Address: Bahá’í News Editorial Office, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091, U.S.A.

Change of address should be reported directly to Membership and Records, National Bahá’í Center. 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois. U.S.A. 60091.