Bahá’í News/Issue 58/Text
The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States and Canada
| No. 58 | January, 1932 |
PROMISE TO THOSE WHO ARISE TO SERVE TEMPLE[edit]
Now the day has arrived in which the edifice of Cod, the divine sanctuary, the spiritual temple, shall be erected in America! I entreat God to assist the confirmed believers in accomplishing this great service and with entire zeal to rear this mighty structure which shall he renowned throughout the world. The support of God will he with those believers in that district that they may be successful in their undertaking, for the Cause is great and great; because this is the first Mashriqu’l-Adhkár in that country and from it the praise of God shall ascend to the Kingdom of Mystery and the tumult of His exaltation and greetings from the whole world shall he heard!
Whosoever arises for the service of this building shall be assisted with a great power from His Supreme Kingdom and upon him spiritual and heavenly blessings shall descend which shall fill his heart with wonderful consolation and enlighten his eyes by beholding the glorious and eternal God!
From Tablets of ’Abdu’l-Bahá', Vol. I,
- page 96.
LETTER FROM SHOGHI EFFENDI[edit]
To a Believer
Shoghi Effendi wishes me to acknowledge the receipt of your letter dated October 14, 1931. You seem to complain about the calamities, that have befallen humanity. In the spiritual development of man a stage of purgation is indispensable, for it is while passing through it that the over-rated material needs are made to appear in their proper light. Unless society learns to attribute more importance to spiritual matters, it would never be lit to enter the golden era foretold by Bahá’u’lláh. The present calamities are parts of this process of purgation, through them alone will man learn his lesson. They are to teach the nations, that they have to view things internationally, they are to make the individual attribute more importance to his moral, than his material welfare.
In such a process of purgation, when all humanity is in the throes of dire suffering, the Bahá’ís should not hope to remain unaffected. Should we consider the beam that is in our own eye, we would immediately find that these sufferings are also meant for ourselves, who claimed to have attained. Such world Crisis is necessary to awaken us to the importance of our duty and the carrying on of our task. Suffering will increase our energy in setting before humanity the road to salvation, it will move us from our repose for we are far from doing our best in teaching the Cause and conveying the Message with which we have been entrusted. Shoghi Effendi, will pray for you as well as the other friends, so that you may arise with greater determination in the consummation of this noble work.
- Yours very sincerely,
Dear and valued co-worker:
This is to assure you in person of my profound sense of loving appreciation of your continued and splendid services to the Cause. I wish you to persevere despite seemingly insurmountable obstacles and to rest assured that my prayers will continue to be offered in your behalf. Concentrate on your work for the colored, for this is a work that will attract the mightiest confirmations and blessings of Bahá’u’lláh and will earn you the abiding gratitude of future generations in the Cause.
- Your true brother,
MESSAGE FROM EDITORIAL COMMITTEE BAHÁ’Í WORLD VOL. IV.[edit]
The editorial committee of the Bahá’í World desires again to thank all of the friends who have so painstakingly striven to assist in providing material for the next volume and to assure them that all manuscripts were sent intact to the Guardian for his use and selection. No authority of selection was delegated to the members of the committee and every contribution was gratefully acknowledged so far as we know. We regret if there were any who did not receive clue acknowledgement and thanks for their co-operation.
SEMINAR AT DIVINITY SCHOOL ON THE BAHÁ’Í RELIGION[edit]
Participation in the activities of liberal religious groups will sometimes open up opportunities for spreading the Bahá’í Teachings. A member of the Berkeley Bahá’í Community registered as a regular student at the Pacific School of Religion in Berkeley. This is a union divinity school sponsored originally by the Congregational Church but drawing its students from a number of churches. One of the courses offered is on modern religious movements. Hearing that the Bahá’í Movement was to be discussed, this believer approached the Professor giving the course and introduced herself to him as a Bahá’í. He very courteously invited her to be present at his seminar and lead a discussion on the Bahá’í Teachings. There were about thirty men in the group, some of them ordained ministers.
It may be interesting to list some of the questions asked. The following are some of the most important:
Is Bahá’ísm a religion or a modern religious movement? Do Bahá’ís make the same claim for Bahá’u’lláh as Christians make for Jesus? Do you accept the words of the prophet as the end of argument? Is the Bahá’í Revelation a synthesis of all other religions? Is it Pantheistic? Under this teaching what becomes of the redemptive principle of Christianity? Do you consider the Manifestation to be God Incarnate or a divinely inspired man? In this age we are trying to get away from superstition; isn’t it simply adding a new superstition to the old ones to believe that in Persia in the middle of the last century God came down on earth to teach men? What is the Bahá’í teaching in regard to evil and its origin? What has the Bahá’í Revelation to offer that is better than what is offered by the old religions?
The last question opened the way for a brief talk on the Reality of the Faith. The speaker was able to command the interest and close attention of all present. At the close they expressed the hope that another such hour might be arranged before the end of the Semester.
|
NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHÁ’ÍS OF THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA General Address: Bahá’í Secretariat, Evergreen Cabin, West Englewood, N. J. ALLEN B. McDANIEL, Chairman,
ALFRED E. LUNT, Secretary, 89
NELLIE S. FRENCH, International
Rev C. WILHELM, Treasurer,
HORACE HOLLEY, Associate Treasurer,
CARL SCHEFFLER, Financial Secretary,
The Bahá’í News is the Organ of
SARAH WALRATH, Chairman. ALBERT WINDUST, Editorial Manager
SOPHIE LOEDING.
ALBERT VAIL.
Editorial Office: SARAH WALRATH, 1415 Sherwood Terrace, Chicago, Illinois. |
In the last issues the Editorial Committee has appealed to the friends for news items from the Bahá’í Communities throughout the country, asking that every Assembly make a point of sending a brief newsy report of current activities in its Community each month. These should reach the Chairman of the Editorial Committee at the above address not later than the fifth of the month.
- EDITORIAL COMMITTEE
EDITORIAL
OUR GREAT TEACHING OPPORTUNITY[edit]
The present chaotic conditions of the world anticipated by the prophecies of Bahá’u’lláh and the Master should bring to the consciousness of every believer the realization that now, more than ever, is our golden opportunity to spread the Cause. It is now more than a decade since we heard from the lips of ’Abdu’l-Bahá, as He traveled in this country, the prophecies that are now being fulfilled. The believers in this country have been richly blessed. Certainly no group of people anywhere can face the difficult conditions through which humanity will pass in the near future with greater confidence and assurance. The thought of our blessings, however, brings with it also a realization of our responsibility, for we must know that this rich blessing which we hold is a message potent to remedy the evils that beset all of humanity if we have the courage, the necessary wisdom to properly approach and the knowledge of the teachings to properly convey them to our fellow beings.
We have a rich literature. Many of the writings of Bahá’u’lláh and of the Master have been translated into English. The Master himself traveling in this country demonstrated to us how to teach and today all this is being richly augmented by the powerful writings that come from the pen of the Guardian of the Cause. In addition to this he has given to us in the Bahá’í Administration a plan of administration that should in every community fuse us into an effective organism for the spread of the teachings. Even though the demands that are made on us by the work of erecting the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár, which we must not forget is in itself a most tremendous teaching medium, are great and we cannot at the present time increase the number of traveling teachers, we may still find ourselves able to arise to the opportunity and effectively spread the Cause from every nucleus of Bahá’ís.
Too long have we as a body been content to enjoy the rich pearls of divine wisdom that have come into our possession. The condition of the world, however, has awakened the people to a great hunger for the solution of their difficulties and no one of us today has a right to refrain from speaking out the glad tidings. In many of our communities the believers have felt that they lacked capacity to do what was necessary. They felt that they were not public speakers or that they had not the necessary equipment to convey to others a word of the great Truth. The Master, however, exhorted each and every one to arise for the spread of the Cause and the Guardian has for some time been urging us to prepare ourselves to become effective teachers. It is meet, therefore, that we should in every Bahá’í community give serious thought to our own efficiency as individuals and as a group.
Let us ask ourselves, what are we doing to improve ourselves to become more effective Bahá’í teachers? How may we co-operate with other believers in our vicinity? How can we combine to become more efficient? May we not consider in a Nineteen Day Feast, which we will attend, what each of us can contribute to united effort. Then if there are those who can speak in a public gathering may we not help and do what we can to make the meeting attractive and if there are found none in our community who can do this, may we not find that small gatherings in the homes, to which we invite our friends, are oftimes more effective than public gatherings.
Through consultation with Spiritual Assemblies in the larger communities, and with one another in the groups of believers we must, without doubt, in spite of every condition, even though we are entirely isolated, find ourselves capable of carrying on. Let us now arise to avail ourselves of the great strength that is in the Cause. This strength is our unity. Through co-operation every community of Bahá’ís will find itself a strong fortress of the Divine Teachings. Unitedly we can bring new life and vigorous growth in our community. Let us not depend on others to speak for us, but do it ourselves. Let us each do our part, uphold one another’s hands and unitedly give increase to this world’s greatest blessing.
THE HEART OF DIXIE TEACHING AMITY IN THE SOUTH[edit]
Some years ago the Guardian expressed the wish that a white Bahá’í teacher and a colored teacher should go together into the South. This matter came to the knowledge of the friends in general during the last annual convention and there were several volunteers. In two cases the plan has recently worked out with unusually happy results.
Mr. Philip A. Marangella of Portsmouth,
N. H., our Italio-American
friend, and Mr. Chauncey Northern of
New York. a young Bahá’í and a very
wonderful singer of the colored race, spent
a fortnight touring the South, visiting
Washington. D. C., and Baltimore enroute
and making some happy contacts
with the friends. Then they struck out
for Richmond, Va., traveling by motor.
At Richmond University they were happily
received by Dr. Samuel C. Mitchell,
[Page 3]
Professor of History and friend of ’Abdu’l-Bahá
whom he met at the Lake Mohonk
Peace Conference of historic fame.
Dr. Mitchell has given the message of
’Abdu’l-Bahá on many platforms. At Columbia,
S. C., Mr. Marangella spoke at
the University of South Carolina, through
the courtesy of Professors in ethics and
educational philosophy. Dr. Josiah Morse
was found keenly interested in race relations
and very helpful. In the same city
addresses were made at Allen University
and Benedict College, both for the education
of Negro students. They thus succeeded
in reaching both groups in the same
city and the hope is that this will be the
means of unity in the future.
At Orangeburg, S. C., there are two Negro schools, Claflin University and the State College, where responsive audiences were found and where the previous visits of other teachers of the Bahá’í Cause were recalled. The theologians and students showed the deepest interest. Several addresses were made and the singing of Mr. Northern lent an added charm. They were cordially invited to return. One of the Deans promised to start a study group as soon as literature was received for it. At Enfield, N. C., is the Bricks Junior College, under the American Missionary Association and for the training of colored youth. The President and his wife for a number of years have been Bahá’ís and always eagerly welcome teachers. Mr. Northern and Mr. Marangella had a very happy period of service under their hospitable roof. They each regretted that only a fortnight could be set aside from their business affairs for such work and were very sorry that at least two months could not have been thus given to the Glory of God.
McKAY—GREGORY TOUR
Early in December Mr. Willard J. McKay of Pittsburgh and Mr. Louis G. Gregory met in Atlanta, Ga., in fulfillment of plans for an inter-racial co-operative teaching journey under the National Amity Committee. They spent eighteen days together, traveling by motor busses, eating together and most of the time sharing the same room, in their social relations thus running counter to all the traditions of their environment, yet without a single unpleasant incident to mar the harmony and usefulness of their trip, at each stage of their journey feeling under divine guidance and protection. They were treated with signal courtesy by people of all races, classes, colors and creeds, being astonished by what they saw and heard of the warmth, friendliness and hospitality of the South. Prior to the coming of Mr. McKay, Mr. Gregory addressed the students and some members of the faculty of Randolph-Macon College (white) Lynchburg, Va., and of Bennett College (colored) Greensboro, N. C., both schools for women, the Atlanta School of Social Service, also the inter-racial committee of the City of Atlanta. In the last city the two spoke at three colored colleges at the First Congregational Church where an inter-racial meeting was held attended by three clergymen, all of whom expressed allegiance to the Cause, and where the pastor asked for a study group to be organized in his church.
At Tuskegee Institute, Ala., the famous school founded by the late Booker T. Washington, seven meetings were arranged during their stay of three days, the Principal giving up to the lecturers his time for talking to the students on Sunday evening, at which time they addressed an audience of about eighteen hundred. They were kept constantly in action and many beautiful things were told them indicating the attraction of souls. Dr. Moton said he wanted his students to hear this message. Dr. George W. Carver, famous scientist, declared that the Bahá’í way was the only way to unite humanity, and Mr. E. Davidson Washington, son of the great founder, announced the allegiance of himself and wife to the Cause. The two races thus joined in service for the Cause had its psychology, as well as spiritual attraction. One of the most brilliant members of the faculty, himself a clergyman, said, “The only fault we have to find with you is that you do not come often enough to Tuskegee!”
At Montgomery, Ala., first capital of the Confederacy, much of interest was told the two teachers about the progress of the inter-racial work by a Professor of Sociology in the state colored college. They even go so far as to have refreshments at their inter-racial meetings, a practice recently sprung up and hitherto regarded as a capital abomination. The two workers in their turn were able to tell much that they had seen and heard, e. g. that Dean Comer Woodward of Emery University in Atlanta, (white), would be happy to have a colored Bahá’í lecturer come to them to explain the Bahá’í ideals of race relations, provided they would give him sufficient notice to plan ahead for it. The presentation of the Bahá’í Teachings were here received with the same glad approval. The liberals of the South grow in numbers, vision and power. It is unfortunate that so little is reported about them.
The State Institute for Colored Youth at Normal, Ala., had recently suffered a severe blow in having two of its teachers so beaten by white hoodlums that one was knocked senseless for a day or two and the other died in a few hours as a result of his injuries. In this they were in no wise to blame. Their car while stationary was run into by a truck and while they were peacefully adjusting the matter with the other party, a third party knowing nothing about the matter made this murderous attack. It can be readily imagined how grateful these dear people were to hear the great message and teachings. They entertained the two teachers royally and besides the chapel meeting called a special faculty meeting to gain more information about the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh. The President said, “Please never pass us by without a call when you are in this section.”
At Nashville, Tenn., Fisk University has long stood as a co-operative interracial center. An active Bahá’í was found upon the grounds and five meetings were held with different groups, or classes. The Jewish Librarian asked that a Bahá’í group be started and in this he was seconded by the Curator, who met ’Abdu’l-Bahá in New York years ago. A small child was impressed to ask her mother, “Why are that colored and white man traveling together?” The mother, wife of a noted publicist and scholar, was astonished at this question, seeing that in such a place there were so many interracial gatherings. It was explained to her how in their purity of heart children often were more sensitive to spiritual vibrations. Words about the Cause simply expressed usually rivet their attention. The State Normal School yielded its previously arranged program for a time to hear Bahá’í talks and Pearl High School sat in close attention for an hour to hear the co-operative messages.
At Louisville, Ky., the Bahá’ís arranged
two meetings for amity in a colored
church. At Cincinnati a public
meeting was arranged which showed a
fine growth of that assembly in a year,
and another fine meeting for Bahá’ís. A
visit was arranged at the University of
Cincinnati, where Dr. W. O. Brown, of
the Department of Sociology, entertained
the two teachers at luncheon, and agreed
later to have them address his classes. He
takes a strong stand against all forms of
prejudice and does not fear. “Such a
stand is now growing respectable,” he
laughingly declared. When such work
started in the South it had to be behind
closed doors. Now they have come out
into the open. When questioned about
his antecedents, Dr. Brown replied, “My
parents were tenant farmers in Texas. I
belong to the class designated ‘poor white
trash’ and accused of stirring up all the
racial troubles in the South.” At a request
for something that he had written,
Dr. Brown took the teachers into the
university library and showed them a copy
of Opportunity Magazine for December.
It contains a most illuminating article[Page 4]
from his pen on “The Myth of Prejudice.”
It is well worth digesting. After
a joyful meeting with the Bahá’ís at Columbus,
the two workers parted, each proceeding
in his way of toil, each joyful
in the success of the journey and the divine
protection that overshadowed its entire
way. The Spirit of Bahá’u’lláh is
moving the hearts and its power is affecting
souls of great capacity in the South
as in all other sections of this country
and the world. The people of the
South are by nature warm-hearted, generous
and humane. Prejudices among
them are naively expressed. Prejudices
in northern climes are not less real, but
more subtly expressed. In both sections,
a great work is to be done and happy
are those who sincerely approach the
task. People of great capacity are every
where to be found nowadays and they
are eagerly looking for a way out of the
glooms and shadows of the world. Those
who know should not be silent!
One of the students of Fisk University showed these travelers a thesis of three thousand words about Bahá’í ideals and teachings which he had written and used as a commencement address, with much approval by his audience. At Clarksburg, West Virginia, a teacher in the colored High School arranged for two meetings, and read in part to Mr. Gregory an article of twenty thousand words that he has written on the Bahá’í Movement as a study in his candidacy for a second degree in Ohio State University. He received the message from Dr. Herbert Adolphus Miller, recently of the Sociological Department, who put him in touch by correspondence with Bahá’í workers. He gladly arranged two meetings, one at his home, the other at school. So brightens the new day!
LETTER FROM ORCELLA REXFORD[edit]
“Just a brief note to let you know of the success we had in Boston recently with our Bahá’í work. Two lectures were given and great enthusiasm was shown. I find people are much more receptive to receiving the message to-day than they were even a year ago.
Dr. Glenn Shook, Professor of Physics at Wheaton College, volunteered to teach the study class. About 300 turned out to his opening lesson on “The Solution of the Economic Problem” and about 175 are regularly attending the Bahá’í study class which he is teaching. They meet twice a week in Wesleyan Hall. Dr. Shook is being assisted by Mrs. W. H. Coristine, Mrs. Elizabeth Greenleaf, Mr. Alfred Lunt and other members of the Boston group. We hope for a substantial increase in the Boston community.
We opened here in Washington last night and feel assured that the power of the spirit will confirm our efforts in this city so that we will be able to raise up a like number of souls and to have a similar study class. We expect to be here for three weeks and then will probably spend the winter in the south, coming north again in the Spring.” Washington, D. C., December 4, 1931.
HAWAII
Honolulu: Since our last report we have had the pleasure of a short visit from Mrs. Schopflocher. She sails today for Japan and China and then to Haifa. On Tuesday evening, November 17th, at our weekly public Bahá’í meeting, she spoke convincingly of the Cause, relating many interesting incidents in her Bahá’í contacts. The talk was equally inspiring to the Bahá’í group and to the interested inquirers who were present. On the following Thursday afternoon she spoke to our young people’s Bahá’í class, composed for the most part of young university students, of the timely efforts of the young people throughout the world in helping to establish the New World Order.
On November 10th, Mrs. Seto and Miss Julia Goldman were invited to speak in the Parish House of the Central Union Church—the largest Protestant Church in Honolulu—on the Bahá’í Movement. They spoke of the Cause in its relation to the individual life; of its place and need in the world today and of the evidences of its penetrating Power throughout the world. The interest expressed was most encouraging and gratifying. Several of these friends came to the meeting on November 12th, Bahá’u’lláh’s birthday. A program of unusual interest was planned and carried out largely by the young people’s group, giving a note of cheer, hope and joy that was truly contagious.
A report of our weekly meetings is published every week in the newspapers, a medium of expression we consider very important in this community.
CALIFORNIA
Pasadena: Due to the generous attitude and assistance of the editor of the most important newspaper in this city, the Pasadena Star News, the Cause is receiving a great deal of attention and all articles sent out by the National Publicity Committee are printed by this paper.
Regular meetings are held in the most attractive hotel and while there are but few new people attracted usually, at the time of the visits of some of the National Teachers we frequently have very large audiences.
An inter-assembly young people’s group is very earnestly studying the Teachings and meetings are held each week in the various homes, sometimes in Los Angeles, and sometimes in Glendale or Pasadena. These young people are all college students and they plan their own course of study and are diligently devoting their meetings to a consideration of the Administration. Frequently the older members of the communities are invited to address the group.
An address was given before the Pasadena Browning Society by one of the friends, the subject being “Spiritual Evolution.” This was understood to be a Bahá’í address and it was very well received, and splendid publicity given in the papers.
The Theosophical Society has invited one of our members to speak on January 20th and they have also requested the subject of “Spiritual Evolution” from the Bahá’í angle.
Laguna Beach: In June, 1931, Dr. Ali Kuli Khan and family came to Laguna Beach, sixty miles to the south of Los Angeles, an important center of artists, authors, musicians and educator. It is the summer center of Pomona College. Mr. Sumner Crosby, the editor of the “South Coast News,” arranged many social gatherings for Dr. Khan, including the large banquet of the Art Association, where Dr. Khan was the guest of honor and speaker of the evening. In the course of these various meetings the Bahá’í Message was presented by Dr. Khan, and the interest thus awakened led to a series of Sunday evening meetings in which Dr. Khan gave the Bahá’í Teachings and Principles in a systematic way.
On November 16th Mrs. Shahnaz
Waite was invited by Dr. and Mme.
Khan to be their house guest for two
weeks. Through Mr. Sumner Crosby’s
co-operation, two public Bahá’í lectures
were arranged in the beautiful Hotel Laguna
at which Mrs. Waite presented the
subjects: “The Dawn of a New Cycle.”
and “The Solution of the World’s Problems,”
to a very influential group. The
lectures were followed by Mrs. Waite
answering questions bearing upon vital
aspects of the Bahá’í Revelation. Mrs.
Waite’s audiences and friends included
the chairman of Adult Education in
Orange County, who is also President of
the Business and Professional Women's
League of Laguna Beach. There were[Page 5]
present leaders in the Theosophical circles,
social workers, artists, writers, publicists,
educators, business men and women,
and others representing various
organizations.
The San Francisco, Oakland and Berkeley communities held their “Inter-Bay” Teaching Conference and their Amity Meeting on the same Sunday, thus making it possible for more people to attend the successive events. At the last conference the thrifty budgeting and true service of Mrs. N. F. Ward, Chairman of the Berkeley Feast Committee, enabled the Berkeley friends to serve a splendid supper to over a hundred people at only thirty-five cents a plate. This charge not only covered the cost, but left a surplus sufficient to pay for the hall and for special guests.
Berkeley: That inter-racial amity is a joyous fact, and not a question for discussion, has been the principle motivating the new program of inter-racial activity in Berkeley. Race has not been discussed in the amity gatherings, the simple fact of loving association being taken as proof that prejudice and animosity have been overcome.
The topics have been chosen with the idea of presenting the Cause as a complete social and spiritual program. Furthering this principle, Mrs. Grace Holley of the Visalia Spiritual Assembly spoke on “The Bahá’í Economic Plan,” opening the way for discussion. At another meeting, Dr. John Wright Buckram of the Pacific School of Religion lectured on “What is Religion?” Dr. Buckram developed the thought that religion evolves through experience. He stressed the point that Christ is pre-eminent among the prophets on the ground that His influence has been more important and more lasting. This opened the way for Mr. Howard Hurlbut of San Francisco, the second speaker, to give the full Bahá’í point of view. In an excellent “rebuttal” Mr. Hurlbut explained the Bahá’í concept of religion. He pointed out with all courtesy that the teachings of Mohammed have been even more powerful in changing the lives of people than the Christian teachings, citing historical facts. The talk was most penetrating, “The Oneness of Religion” was the topic for discussion at another inter-racial group meeting. Dr. Khandvalla spoke on the Brahmo Samaj Movement in India, showing how it promotes the unity of religion. Mrs. Rodney Williams followed this talk with a splendid Bahá’í address at the Inter-Bay Amity Meeting held in Berkeley. Professor William J. Meredith of the Montezuma School for Boys addressed a large audience on “The History of Religion in the Social Program.” A musical program given by local artists was arranged by Laura Kelsey Allen for this occasion. The most recent inter-racial affair was a tea at which Mrs. Kathryn Frankland was hostess to over fifty people of many different races, countries and religions.
In this way the Berkeley friends have carried on their amity work without magnifying racial differences by dwelling on them.
Oakland: Under the direction of Mrs. Ruth Williams, an “Amity Dinner” and meeting was held recently at the North Oakland Baptist Church. Miss Charlotte Linfoot of Oakland introduced Mr. Leroy C. Ioas, speaker of the evening, whose subject was “Love.” The colored friends presented musical numbers and original poems.
An interesting note was struck by one of the Church Trustees, who said he had known Mr. Louis Gregory some years ago in Washington, D. C., and had attended Bahá’í meetings there. As a result of this gathering, the Reverend G. C. Coleman offered his pulpit to Bahá’í speakers whenever they might wish it, and several of the congregation planned to attend the Bahá’í summer school at Geyserville.
OREGON
Portland: Donald Tenny, one of the Bahá’í youth, presented the Bahá’í economic plan to his Y. M. C. A. class in public speaking. Great interest was aroused and he answered questions on the Cause for forty-five minutes.
Over our leading Broadcasting Station, KGW, Miss Ella Missner gave an address on “The Need of Universal Peace,” in commemoration of the birthday of Bahá’u’lláh.
One of the outstanding colored women’s clubs has requested Mrs. Myrtle Campbell to give another series of Bahá’í talks, this year.
The interest in Esperanto which was aroused by Miss Martha Root has been kept alive by Mrs. Louise Caswell who has been able to found an Esperanto Society.
Carrying out the program for the Northwest Assembly Teaching Campaign, Charles and Helen Bishop, Louise Caswell and George Latimer made a trip to Seattle and Vancouver, B. C. In Seattle Mr. Latimer was the guest speaker on the National Broadcasting hour of Esperanto over KJR. He spoke on “International Good Will.” The Seattle friends arranged a public meeting for the speakers. A remarkable demonstration of the Bahá’í spirit was the active participation in the meeting of Prof. Watanabe of Japan and Reginald Mar, Chinese Nationalist. This is of note because of the strained political relationship between their respective countries.
Upon arrival in Vancouver a fine meeting was held at the home of Mrs. Rhoda Harvey; during the succeeding days several afternoon and evening meetings were held which were attended by inquirers. Prof. Charles Hill-Tout, eminent anthropologist, contributed interesting data in the discussions following the Bahá’í talks.
A fine contact has been made with the large International Club, of which Mr. and Mrs. Kemp are active members. With the loving co-operation of the believers, the meetings gave an impetus to the Cause in Vancouver.
WASHINGTON
Spokane: Jews, Christians and those of other religious faiths have for the past five years united in worship in a Thanksgiving Union Service. The message from the Bahá’í Community, selected from the writings of Bahá’u’lláh, was read by Mrs. Agnes Blodgett. It is our hope that we may have a Bahá’í teacher here next year to give an address.
NEW YORK
New York City: November has been another busy month in the life of the New York Bahá’í community. Mr. Horace Holley spoke on November 8th on “Why This Depression?” The outstanding thought of the talk was that, today’s depression is the very apparent darkness preceding the glorious day of Bahá’u’lláh —a Day when the selfish profit motive of the restless present will give way to brotherhood, peace, and service among fellow-men.
On November 15th, Mrs. Mary Hanford Ford gave clearly and graphically the conditions of “What Constitutes a New Age,” the dawning of which is so plainly evident to the thinkers in every field of activity and in every country.
Then on November 22nd, Mr.
Hooper Harris spoke with feeling and
power on “Replacing Fear with Faith.”
Humanity, today, as never before, feels[Page 6]
the need of that state of consciousness
which is made possible only by the advent
and power of One who indeed inaugurates
a New Age.
On November 29th, Mr. Saffa Kinney put into words for us our “Thanksgiving for This New Era.” Along with the giving of thanks for national and civic community blessings, the Bahá’ís realize ever more deeply the Bounty which God has vouchsafed to humanity at this dawn of the New Day.
The unique Tuesday afternoon programs of Mrs. Ford, which did much to enlarge the Cause through cultural contacts and inspiration last year, were started during the month of November. On the 10th Mrs. Ford gave the purpose and forecast of the meetings to be held during the year. Her subject was “What Are We Looking At?,” and her last summer’s experiences among the peoples of Europe enabled her to realize and present their reactions to the situation of the present.
On the 17th, the friends were privileged to enjoy a piano recital by Miss Rata Présent, a brilliant pianist whose comprehensive and illuminating interpretations of her program added so greatly to the pleasure and uplift of the afternoon.
On November 24th, Miss Frances R. Grant of the Roerich Museum, gave a talk on the Peace Movement in terms of international culture and art which is so widely represented by the works to be seen at the Roerich Museum.
These Tuesday afternoon programs of art and culture are followed by “tea” and a social hour with its opportunity of demonstrating the great Message of Oneness for the Day.
The Young People’s Group met each Tuesday evening and followed its usual procedure of having some one of their number—Bahá’í or non-Bahá’í—speak upon a given subject which is then openly and vigorously discussed by all. Each week there are new friends, many of whom become vitally interested. The night of Tuesday. the 24th. was given over to a social time.
On the 28th, the New York Bahá’í Community was privileged to hold its meeting for the Commemoration of the Ascension of ’Abdu’l-Bahá at St. Mark’s Church in the Bouwerie. This meeting has been held at St. Mark’s each year. The church with its unique lighting system, its splendid organ, and the evident spirit of welcome and cordiality shown to the Bahá’ís, is a fitting background for the beautiful program of readings: The Prayer of the Covenant, excerpts from the Tablet of the Branch, selections from the addresses given at the funeral of ’Abdu'l-Bahá, parts of His Tablet to America. His Will and Testament, and ’Abdu’l-Bahá’s Prayer for the World. Each year the service seems more beautiful and inspiring, and more deeply confirms the continued Presence and Power of the beloved Master, ’Abdu’l-Bahá.
The New York friends are very happy to have with them again dear Mrs. Florian Krug.
PENNSYLVANIA
Philadelphia: Miss Martha Root with Mrs. Little and Miss Crum of New York City visited Philadelphia for a few days late in September to follow up the preliminary work which had been done with the Universities in this vicinity. A month later, Miss Martha returned and remained until she left for Washington, D. C. During this period she spoke to students of Swarthmore College, Haverford College, Temple University and Cheyney Training School for Teachers at Cheyney, Pennsylvania. It was very interesting and gratifying to witness the enthusiasm displayed by these young students and to hear the intelligent questions they asked.
On October 27th, Miss Root broadcast over Station “WCAU” Philadelphia, one of the largest broadcasting stations in the city. Her subject was: “My World Travels in the Interest of Universal Peace.” In this talk the Bahá’í history and teachings were clearly given. On November 13th, she again broadcast over Station “WFI” Philadelphia, on the subject of Esperanto, in which talk she mentioned Bahá’u’lláh and ’Abdu’l-Bahá'.
INTERNATIONAL NEWS ITEMS[edit]
PERSIA
Teaching conferences have been held in Khorassan and the establishment of Bahá’í schools for boys and also for girls is being noted in many of the Persian cities and villages. Bahá’í teachers are traveling throughout the land and marked results are noted, and a most active campaign of advancing the Bahá’í Publications is going on. The report is so extensive that it is only possible to quote some parts of it, but it is supremely gratifying to note the great progress of the affairs of the Cause, and an account is also included of the work of the Bahá’í students now in Europe where they were sent by the Persian Government to equip themselves with valuable information and experience so that they may be of service to the Persian Commonwealth generally.
Many of these students have mastered the languages spoken in Europe in a wonderful way, and they are carrying a knowledge of the Cause into every association where they may be engaged.
A Bahá’í Character Study Class is very active in seeking to instruct the children along the line of spiritual education. Correspondence is carried on between this group and friends in other provinces in Persia to encourage this phase of work everywhere.
The passing of that distinguished member of the Cause, Jenabi Azizullah Khan Vargha, son of the beloved poet Vargha who suffered martyrdom for the Holy Cause, was noted with the deepest sense of grief at his loss,
EGYPT
The National Spiritual Assembly has been requested by the Guardian to send a copy of the Bahá’í World Vol. III to His Majesty King Foad of Egypt. A suitable inscription is to be written on the fly-leaf, but the package is to bear no evidence of having come from the Bahá’ís. This is both courteous and prudent.
INDIA
Lahore: A very interesting article on the Prophet Zarathustra written by Sir Rabindranath Tagore appears in the Bahá’í Weekly. Articles of this character are often very helpful to the friends who are constantly meeting with inquiries regarding the import of great religious systems of the Orient.
The Bahá’í Weekly published in Lahore is becoming more and more important and the general information which it carries is of the greatest value. In the issue of November 19th we note that the Editor, Prof. Pritam Singh was about to undertake a Bahá’í Tour of nine districts of the Punjab. He is traveling as a representative of the National Spiritual Assembly of India and Burma and will devote his time to teaching and lecturing on the Holy Cause.
An interesting paper on Qurrat’l-’Ayn was read on the 17th of November before the Persian Society of the Government College, Lahore, by Mr. Inayat Ullah, a student. The students who attended were very much interested and expressed a desire to know more about the religion to which Qurratu’l-’Ayn belonged.
Karachi: The foundation stone of the “Hazira-tul-Quds” (meeting place of the Bahá’ís) was laid on November 6th amid stirring scenes of enthusiasm. After chanting and prayers the friends were entertained with refreshments and the occasion was one of joy and thanksgiving. We in the West send congratulations and assure the friends of our fervent supplications in behalf of this great new step in advance.
Poona: News has been received of the good work done by Syed Ilmi, editor of Kaukab-i-Hind Delhi at Poona. Public lectures were delivered at the Seva Sadan (Women’s Association) the Anjuman Fidayan Hall, the Depressed Classes Mission and at the Theosophical Hall. Mr. Ilmi is now planning a teachin tour in Northern India and intends visiting all the towns between Lahore and Calcutta and the tour is likely to last the whole of the winter.
JAPAN
Mrs. Keith-Ransom Kehler wrote to Shoghi Effendi recently as follows: “The contacts which Agnes Alexander made for me in the Universities and with student groups were most rewarding; Friday night Bahá’í meetings were well attended by inquiring students, many nationalities being represented. Agnes felt that the most important work of all was the several meetings held for the confirmed Bahá’ís and those about to declare themselves, to study and grasp the import and modus vivendi of Administration.”
Word comes from Miss Agnes Alexander that a translation of Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era is being prepared in Japanese. The Guardian is very much pleased to know of this move, but particularly warns the friends that all translations should be made by experts and the greatest care should be given to beauty and correctness of Bahá’í books rendered into other languages.
CHINA
“One of the most interesting figures in China is C. S. Liu,” — Mrs. Kehler wrote to the Guardian—"now president of the Sun Yat Sen University Agricultural College. Confirmed by Jenabe Fazel, while an under-graduate at Cornell, fostered by our wonderful and devoted Mr. Roy Wilhelm, he has remained faithful and devoted though cut off from Bahá’í association and contact for six years. He has many important connections. Night after night while I visited him and his family in Canton, he sat until very late questioning me and discussing the implications of the Cause in its future development. After finishing a discussion of the political science and economics advanced by Bahá’u’lláh he fervently exclaimed: ‘The Bahá’í Cause is not only divine, it is scientific!’ One evening warily, tentatively, as if fearing a rebuff he queried, ‘Did Shoghi Effendi ever mention China or speak of her problems and her future?’ How happy I was to be able to tell him of your several references to China when Elizabeth Greenleaf and I were in Haifa. He, too, seemed happy and relieved. Through the kindness of the American friends to his sister, now Professor of History at Lingnaan University, and cable from Mrs. Ella Cooper to Agnes to meet her in Yokohoma, I received this invitation to visit in Canton. She interpreted for me on several occasions and I am sure will embrace the Cause if she has not already done so.”
Shanghai: Y. S. Tsao, affiliated with the Local Spiritual Assembly of Shanghai, writes:
“ . . . . Our people are in great trouble and the Bahá’í Teachings ought to be proclaimed here. To most people to whom I have spoken there is a ready response that gives us increased conviction as to the power that the book of Dr. Esslemont will wield when published. Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era is being revised for the last time and will soon be in print in the Chinese language. A proof copy has been sent to Miss Agnes Alexander to help them in the Japanese translation. May the Light shine in its full effulgence in the Far East!
“It is only by viewing the affairs of mankind through the Bahá’í Spirit that man may get the proper perspective.” In a clipping from a Shanghai newspaper, written by Tsao and sent to us, he says:
“The cure for all worldly ills is decidedly a spiritual one. All mankind must believe in the unity of the human race as he believes in the unity of the Supreme Being. The world belongs to mankind, not to any particular nation or race. . . . Above nations there is Humanity! And a great Prophet has declared: ‘Let not a man glory in this, that he loves his country; let him rather glory in this, that he loves his kind.’” The whole article is called “ORDER OUT OF CHAOS.”
The hearts of the friends will be gladdened to learn that the distinguished scholar, Dr. Y. S. Tsao, has completed the Chinese translation of Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era, and that this valuable contribution to the literature of the Cause will soon be brought out by the Publishing Committee of Shanghai, China.
AUSTRALIA
In a recent letter Mrs. Kehler writes: “In Adelaide I gave a series of nine lessons on the teachings through which the Beloved has permitted me to assist in confirming about eighty souls. The average attendance was around 160, the first meeting numbering 121, and the last 225. In America it has always been the reverse; many at first, and few at last when they see that I am not going to tell them ‘How to be healthy, wealthy and wise.’ Seven were confirmed and a large study class was formed—among them being the Chinese Consul and his wife. I broadcast, spoke before many organizations and had much publicity. Mr. and Mrs. Dunn professed themselves much pleased.”
ENGLAND
The program of meetings at the headquarters of the Bahá’í Community of London brings the interesting information that on Wednesday, December 16th, Sir Francis Younghusband is to speak there on the subject of “Unity in Religion.” Distinguished traveler and lecturer, Sir Francis Younghusband has for many years identified himself with every line movement whose object was World Unity. He was a prominent speaker at the “Conference of Religions Within the Empire” in London in 1924, and closely associated with the proceedings of the “World conference for International Peace through Religion,” which held its initial meeting in Geneva, Switzerland three years ago, and which plans the gathering of representatives from all the great religious systems of the world in Washington, D. C., or some other important center in the near future.
London: We have much cause for
deep thankfulness as we review the work
of the summer months. The believers in
the different centers have been stimulated
and strengthened by contact with inspired
souls from other countries, and many
people have become interested in the
Bahá’í Message. But this is not sufficient.
Interest must be deepened till
the Teachings are accepted in their entirety.
We must show forth in our lives the
beauty of the Bahá’í Revelation, we must
show to the world that we have a message
which can transform the world,—
which can build up from the ruins of a
broken civilization a new creation. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
has said: “When the Divine
Message is understood, all troubles will
vanish. Shadows disappear when the
universal lamp is lighted, for whosoever
becomes illumined thereby no longer[Page 8]
knows grief; he realizes that his stay on
this planet is temporary, and that life is
eternal. When once he has found reality,
he will no longer know darkness.” And
it is for us to show that we have found
reality.
A general survey of the Holy Cause is here being prepared. Lady Blomfield, Mrs. Thornburgh-Cropper and Mrs. George are preparing an article on: “The Beginnings of the Cause in England” in accordance with the instructions of Shoghi Effendi. Our Guardian has advised London Spiritual Assembly to appoint a Committee for this important and historical work of the Cause. Mrs. Romer, Secretary, also speaks of the great work accomplished by Mrs. Mary Hanford Ford in England. That she has given the Message successfully to thousands of souls during her five consecutive summers and is very well liked by all sorts of English speaking audiences. Speaking of the English nation Mrs. Romer writes: “These people are conservative in many things and bound by traditions, but God will work things out in His Way if we just put ourselves in His Hands and work with all our might as we are guided through prayer.”
Bradford: With great thankfulness we record the holding of the first Bahá’í public meeting in this city. This took place in the Friend’s Meeting House on July 3rd. The speaker was our dear friend and beloved teacher, Mrs. Mary Hanford Ford. The title of the address was “Disarmament a Divine Command.” Mrs. Ford, sustained with eloquence, gave the Bahá’í Message in its relation to Peace and International Friendship. Through the agency of willing friends Mrs. Ford was enabled to address various religious and pacifist organizations in the Bradford district.
GERMANY
The Bahá’í Esperanto Publishing Committee and administration of the Esperanto publication, La Nova Tago, were transferred February, 1930, to Weinheim, Baden. During the year much useful work was done in the spreading of the teachings with the aid of Esperanto, and by working together with the International Esperanto Congresses. The Bahaa Esperanto Eldonejo has evolved into an international information exchange which is greatly used and is assuming an ever greater value within the Esperanto World. In one year about 2300 Esperanto brochures and leaflets about the Bahá’í Teachings were sent out as well as La Nova Tago which was sent to 800 addresses besides the regular subscribers. The Magazine has won to its ardent support Miss Lidja Zamenhof, who did valuable work in bringing about of the Bahá’í gathering in connection with the Universal Esperanto Congress in August, 1930. A new brochure of 8 pages by Miss Zamenhof, Homo, Dio, Profeto has been published, also the Esperanto translation of Dr. Esslemont’s book by Lidia Zamenhof. The Esperanto translations of the Paris Talks and Some Answered Questions, also by Lidia Zamenhof, are ready for publication. We hope that their printing will be made possible some time during the coming year.
SWEDEN
Goteborg: From this region comes the Voice of Divine Unity and effort; Mr. and Mrs. Palmgren are unitedly spreading the Holy Teachings throughout Sweden. Our beloved sister, Anna Rudd-Palmgren writes:
“Dr. Esslemont’s book is just now ready for printing and will come out in a few weeks. We are very happy to be able to send out the Word to the people of Sweden. The Cause is progressing but slowly in Sweden; times are hard and people are in distress and do not know what to do. We persevere in the work although it seems very hard and we hope that our Father will bless it. Mr. Palmgren is helping me teach the Glad Tidings; we would like to travel all around the country on a teaching tour but this costs much money.”
BULGARIA
Word comes of the activities of Miss Marian Jack in spreading the Cause in Bulgaria. She has been successful in introducing the Bahá’í Message in the Ministries and to people of all classes. Miss Jack and her associates in this pioneer work in Bulgaria feel keenly the lack of Bahá’í literature in the Bulgarian language, but are nevertheless getting splendid results with the German, English and Esperanto publications with which they are working. They have resorted to the method by which the writings were first disseminated in this country, translating into Bulgarian, making carbon copies and distributing them.
At the Bulgarian Esperanto Congress, a Bahá’í, Mr. Benke, was appointed chairman, and was thus enabled to make many valuable contacts.
Under date of November 28th, Miss Marion E. Jack, wrote to Shoghi Effendi of the interest she had been able to sustain in the city of Sophia, where Mrs. Louise Gregory and Miss Martha Root had made contacts with interested souls. Miss Jack has sent to the Guardian photographs of the believers and friends, and there is every evidence of the establishment of a Bahá’í Group in this important center.
FLORIDA IS CALLING
The Bahá’í Center of Miami extends a welcome to all visiting friends. Address Mrs. Georgie Brown Wiles, Park Lane Apts., Alton road, Miami Beach. Phone 5-3415.
The Feast held in the home of Mrs. Wiles was an exceptionally joyous occasion. Orcella Rexford, Dr. Gayne Gregory, Luella Beecher of Budd Lake, N. J., Jane Paul of Indianapolis, Indiana, Mr. and Mrs. John Svendsen of Chicago, Illinois and Fannie A. Knobloch of Washington, D. C., contributed generously to our Bahá’í Service.
OHIO
Cincinnati: Several months ago Mrs. Ruth Moffett of Chicago, visited our city and brought to us new confidence and the impetus to greater activity. Since that time we have established our Headquarters in the Liberal Loan Building in the heart of the downtown section. The meetings here have been very gratifying.
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O God, my aim, my hope! With hearts full of longing and breasts full of yearning, we beg of Thee and we supplicate at the threshold of Thy might to raise the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár in Chicago, in the most speedy manner. Make its basis firm and its structure enduring, suffer its pillars to remain unshakable and make its columns of the steel and iron of firmness. Glorify its servants, beautify the characters and make the worshippers beloved. Suffer its nightingales to sing and warble the praises of our Lord, the Most Supreme. Make its men the standards unfolded on the mountains of the world, and its women the sanctified angels of the tabernacle of the world! ’Abdu’l-Bahá.
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