Bahá’í News/Issue 72/Text
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The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís
of the United States and Canada
General Office: Evergreen Cabin, West Englewood, New Jersey
TEMPLE CONSTRUCTION[edit]
1. The Guardian’s Prayer
“Would to God that by the end of the spring of the year 1933 the multitudes who, from the remote corners of the globe, will throng the grounds of the Great Fair to be held in the neighborhood of that hallowed shrine may, as the result of your sustained spirit of self-sacrifice, be privileged to gaze on the arrayed splendor of its dome—a dome that shall stand as a flaming beacon and a symbol of hope amidst the gloom of a despairing world.”— Shoghi Effendi to the American believers, March 21, 1932.
2. Progress to Date
Between June, 1932 and March, 1933, a total of $27,500 was donated toward the sum of $150,000 estimated as the cost of completing the external decoration of the dome unit. On March 25, 1933, the National Spiritual Assembly was able to appropriate $6,000 additional, which provides for the continuance of the work until the end of April.
This work goes forward in several definite stages.
The first stage consisted in making a model of each different unit of Mr. Bourgeois’s plan of decoration, and from these models making molds from which the final sectional units are to be cast.
During this stage it was also necessary to find a source of quartz in the required quality and quantity, and to decide upon a system of non-rusting metal fittings for holding the decorative units in place upon the dome.
The second stage consists in casting the many units of the dome sections and the ribs, and the production of the metal fittings. These fittings have to be set in place before the decorative units are applied to the dome.
The third stage will be the actual placing of the beautiful sectional units upon the dome.
The National Spiritual Assembly understands that the first stage is now completed as far as the molds are concerned. Orders have been placed for the quartz and the metal fittings.
3. Progress by June 1
The original estimate of $150,000 has been reduced to $135,500 as the result of economies and decreased labor costs. Under the financial schedule represented by the flow of contributions to date, the work on June 1 will be brought up to the following point:—
A. The lower portion of the nine ribs, extending from the bottom of the dome to the second gallery, will be completed and set in place.
B. The metal fittings (technically known as the “furring system”) will be set in place, ready for the various sectional units.
C. A certain number of the units will be cast.
4. Financial Schedule
It is emphasized that this construction is a new type of work, a piece of pioneering work, that could not be rushed through in the same way as ordinary construction. The dome unit demands a certain period of time during the preliminary stages, and this period could not be shortened very much even if millions of dollars had been available.
The casting and final application of the units to the Temple dome can, however, be hastened if the flow of contributions is from now on greatly increased. But the Temple Trustees have been obliged to set up a tentative schedule corresponding to an estimate of future donations based upon experience in the past.
In publishing this schedule, the National Spiritual Assembly utters a heartfelt prayer that not only will this considerable sacrifice be met throughout each of the coming months, but that the devotion of the American Bahá’ís will so exceed it that a far more rapid construction schedule can be substituted.
Please note that the following schedule contemplates final completion of the Temple dome unit by November 30, 1933.
Amount required by April 30, 1933 —$9,000.
Amount required from April 30 to May 31—$13,000.
Amount required from May 31 to June 30——$16,000.
Amount required from June 30 to July 31—$16,000.
Amount required from July 31 to August 31——$16,000.
Amount required from August 31 to September 30—$16,000.
Amount required from September 30 to October 31—$16,000.
Amount required from October 31 to November 30—$16,000.
Your National Assembly can but lay these facts before you, together with the Guardian’s inspiring words, that each and every believer may, by prayer and meditation, achieve his or her own standard of sacrifice in contributing to the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár.
THE FIRST MESSAGE OF ‘ABDU’L-BAHA TO HIS FRIENDS THROUGHOUT THE WORLD[edit]
He is the All-Glorious
The world’s great Light, once resplendent upon all mankind, has set to shine everlastingly from the ‘Abha Horizon, His Kingdom of fadeless glory, shedding splendor upon His loved ones from on high, and breathing into their hearts and souls the breath of eternal life.
Ponder in your hearts that which He
hath foretold in His Tablet of “The
Divine Vision” that hath been spread
throughout the world. Therein he
saith: “Thereupon she wailed and exclaimed
‘May the world and all that is
therein be a ransom for Thy woes, O
[Page 2]
Sovereign of heaven and earth!
Wherefore hast Thou left Thyself in
the hands of the dwellers of this
prison—city of ‘Akka? Hasten Thou
to other realms, to Thy retreats above,
unknown as yet to the mortal glance
of the children of the world.’ We
smiled and spake not. Reflect upon
these most exalted words, and comprehend
the purpose of this hidden and
sacred mystery.”
O ye beloved of the Lord! Beware, beware, lest ye hesitate and waver. Let not fear fall upon you, neither be troubled nor dismayed. Take ye good heed lest this calamitous day slacken the flames of your ardor, and quench your tender hopes. Today is the day for steadfastness and constancy. Blessed are they that stand firm and immovable as the rock, and brave the storm and stress of this tempestuous hour. They, verily, shall be the recipients of God’s grace, verily shall receive His divine assistance, and shall be the truly victorious. They shall shine amidst mankind with a radiance which the dwellers of the Pavillion of Glory laud and magnify. To them is proclaimed this celestial call, revealed in His most holy Book: “O My people! Be not perplexed should the star of My presence disappear, and the ocean of My utterance be stilled. In My presence among you there was the wisdom of God, and in My absence from you there is yet another, inscrutable to all but the One, the All-Knowing. Verily, We behold you from Our realm of effulgent glory, and will graciously aid whosoever striveth for the triumph of Our Cause with the hosts of the celestial Concourse and a company of Our chosen angels.”
The Sun of Truth, that most great Light, has set upon the horizon of the world to rise with deathless splendor over the Realm of the Limitless. In His most holy Book He calleth the firm and steadfast of His friends. “O peoples of the world! Should the radiance of My beauty be veiled, and the temple of My body be hidden, feel not perturbed, nay arise and bestir yourselves, that My Cause may triumph, and My Word be heard by all mankind.”
ANNUAL REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES[edit]
The National Spiritual Assembly requests each of its committees to submit an annual report not later than April 10, 1933.
It is the intention of the Assembly to issue its annual report and the annual reports of its committees, in BAHÁ’Í NEWS for May, a month previous to the Convention, which as you know, will be held this year on June first, second, third and fourth.
By placing all annual reports in the hands of the delegates previous to the Convention, it is the hope of the Assembly that the Convention this year can concentrate upon present and future problems and not merely review the details of the various activities during the previous Bahá’í year.
While brevity is very desirable, the National Assembly will welcome reports which are not only complete as to important details, but also contribute to the future growth of the Cause by making constructive suggestions based upon past experience.
Reports received by April 10th will be referred to the Assembly for approval, and it is urgently hoped that no committee report need be omitted from the Special Pre-Convention Number of BAHÁ’Í NEWS.
CONVENTION CALL[edit]
Dear Bahá’í Friends:
The National Spiritual Assembly sends this notice that the Annual Meeting, known as the Bahá’í Convention, will be held at Foundation Hall of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár, Wilmette, Illinois, on June 1, 2, 3 and 4, 1933, this being the Twenty-fifth Annual Convention.
The attention of Local Spiritual Assemblies is called to Article VIII of the By-Laws, which provides that each Assembly shall call a meeting of the Bahá’í community for the election of the delegate or delegates to the Convention assigned to its community as shown on the attached list of “Participating Bahá’í Communities.”
Immediately following that election, each Spiritual Assembly shall fill out and return a Certificate of Election of Delegates, a copy of which is also enclosed.
This notice carries the following enclosures related to the forthcoming Convention: (1). List of Participating Bahá’í Communities with assignment of delegates according to the principle of proportionate representation. (2). Certificate of Election of Delegates. (3). Information for Delegates. (4). Nine ballot slips, one ballot envelope and one mailing envelope for each delegate. (5). Individual Registration Blank for each Delegate. We trust that the information furnished herein, and reference to Article VIII of the By-Laws, will enable each Delegate to fulfil his or her responsibility in the Convention.
As stated in February BAHÁ’Í NEWS, the date of June 1 was chosen
for this Convention on advice cabled by the Guardian. It is on that date that the Guardian centers his hopes that American Bahá’ís shall carry out their supreme privilege of completing the external decoration of the Temple dome.
Never before have we believers of the United States and Canada borne such responsibility in the worldwide development of the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh. The present Bahá’í year began with the whole-hearted pledge of the Delegates and friends present at the last Convention to meet the Guardians standard of achievement. May it end with that standard completely observed.
- Faithfully yours,
- NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY.
- By: HORACE HOLLEY,
- Secretary
- By: HORACE HOLLEY,
LIST OF PARTICIPATING BAHA’I COMMUNITIES[edit]
Twenty-fifth Annual Convention—1933
| Number of | |||
| Community | Delegates | ||
| Phoenix, Arizona | 1 | ||
| Berkeley, California | 1 | ||
| Geyserville | 1 | ||
| Glendale | 1 | ||
| Long Beach | 1 | ||
| Los Angeles | 3 | ||
| Oakland | 1 | ||
| Pasadena | 1 | ||
| San Francisco | 3 | ||
| Santa Barbara | 1 | ||
| Visalia | 1 | ||
| Montreal, Canada | 2 | ||
| Vancouver | 1 | ||
| Denver, Colorado | 1 | ||
| New Haven, Connecticut | 1 | ||
| Washington, D. C. | 5 | ||
| Miami, Florida | 1 | ||
| St. Augustine | 1 | ||
| Honolulu, Hawaii | 1 | ||
| Chicago, Illinois | 11 | ||
| Evanston | 1 | ||
| Peoria | 2 | ||
| Springfield | 1 | ||
| Urbana | 1 | ||
| Wilmette | 1 | ||
| Eliot, Maine | 1 | ||
| Baltimore, Maryland | 1 | ||
| Boston, Massachusetts | 3 | ||
| Worcester | 1 | ||
| Detroit, Michigan | 2 | ||
| Fruitport | 1 | ||
| Lansing | 1 | ||
| Muskegon | 1 | ||
| Minneapolis, Minnesota | 1 | ||
| St. Paul | 1 | ||
| Portsmouth, New Hampshire | 1 | ||
| Montclair, New Jersey | 1 | ||
| Newark | 1 |
| West Englewood | 2 | ||
| Binghamton, New York | 1 | ||
| New York City | 10 | ||
| Yonkers | 1 | ||
| Akron, Ohio | 1 | ||
| Cincinnati | 1 | ||
| Cleveland | 3 | ||
| Columbus | 1 | ||
| Portland, Oregon | 2 | ||
| Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | 1 | ||
| Pittsburgh | 1 | ||
| Seattle, Washington | 2 | ||
| Kenosha, Wisconsin | 2 | ||
| Racine | 3 | ||
| Milwaukee | 3 | ||
| 95 |
HOW TO TRANSFER MT. CARMEL LAND TO THE PALESTINE BRANCH[edit]
Since the preliminary notice on this matter was published a few months ago, a number of individual believers have taken steps to transfer their land on Mt. Carmel to the Palestine Branch of the National Spiritual Assembly. By these generous donations, thousands of dollars worth of this precious property is now held in perpetuity for Bahá’í use.
Specific instructions how to effect the transfer of legal title are now supplied in the following letter and Power of Attorney.
“Shoghi Effendi wishes me to send you these few lines to enclose a copy of the power of attorney that our lawyer here has framed in case any one of the friends desires to transfer the property he holds around the Shrine to the name of the National Assembly.
“As I told you in my previous letter, by law such lands can only be transferred during one’s lifetime. Otherwise it will go to the heirs according to prescribed shares. The will of the deceased is inoperative in such cases. Shoghi Effendi does not want to bring any form of pressure upon the friends. They are naturally free to keep the property in their name and have it go to their heirs.
“In case they express the desire to make such a transfer and have the property revert to the Cause then they have to sign this power of attorney before a Notary Public and then have it countersigned by the British Consul in that locality.
“The power of attorney is in my name and not in the name of the Guardian because he represents the N. S. A. and will sign for them. He cannot represent both parties to the transfer.
“For the transfer there are some expenses, among them 3 per cent of the value of the land, which is government taxes. They do not, however, amount to very much.
“Please note that besides putting their name and signature they have also to state the number of the deed which is mentioned on the Certificate of Registration which they hold.
“Assuring you of Shoghi Effendi’s prayers and best wishes, I remain,
- Yours ever sincerely,
- RUHI AFNAN.
- Yours ever sincerely,
Haifa, Palestine,
October 2, 1932.”
Power of Attorney
I/we the undersigned . . . . . . . . . . . . do hereby give power of attorney to Mr. Ruhi Agnan of Haifa, authorizing him in my/our place and name to sell, transfer and register in the name of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States and Canada—Palestine Branch the property registered in my/our name under deed No. . . . . .. situate in Haifa and also to administer the said property, to effect partition, parcellation, correction of area and boundaries, sue in Courts and generally do such things and steps in connection with the said property as my said agent shall think fit, and for that purpose to appear before the Land Registries, Courts and Government Offices, sign applications, deeds and other documents, admit receipt of purchase price, and also to appoint other or others in his place and revoke at pleasure such substitutes.
In Witness Whereof I/We Have Set Hereunto My/Our Hands.
MESSAGES FROM THE HOLY LAND[edit]
The responsibility which the American believers have so generously and spontaneously assumed through their national elected representatives for the preparation and publication of The Bahá’í World—an international activity of the utmost importance—is yet another evidence of their preponderating influence and their decisive share in the prosecution of this mighty Cause. (signed) SHOGHAI. Haifa, Palestine, November 16, 1932.
I wish to express to your distinguished Assembly my gratitude for the action they have taken in reproducing in facsimile my humble Tribute to the Greatest Holy Leaf. The hundred copies you sent me have been received and are splendid reproductions of the original. The finest and most enduring tribute which can be paid to her memory lies within the grasp and constitutes the supreme opportunity of the American believers. Her earthly life, as it drew to a close, was much brightened by the brilliant accomplishments of her devoted lovers in the American continent. May her pure, angelic soul in the realms above derive added satisfaction from the uninterrupted progress and the eventual completion of an enterprise on which she centered the one remaining joy of her life. (signed) SHOGHI. Haifa, Palestine, October 27, 1932.
Before you extend any sort of help to, or affiliate yourself with, the World Fellowship of Faiths, Shoghi Effendi feels that the N. S. A. should find out whether its purpose is in any way political, especially now that its leadership is transferred from Rabbi Wise to Mr. Das Gupta. In case it is nonpolitical and its purpose is not a form of Indian propaganda, then the Guardian feels you should take part in their gatherings. The first task is to find out the underlying motive of the Society and then, in case it coincides with the Bahá’í spirit, lend them help and advise the friends to cooperate with them. Otherwise the Guardian believes we will be involved in grievous difficulties. (signed) Ruhi Afnan. Haifa, Palestine, November 16, 1932. Your letter of November 17 reveals the character of the Fellowship of Faiths and I would urge the Assembly to exercise the utmost possible pressure on any believer no matter how influential he or she may be to withdraw from participation in its political activities. (signed) SHOGHI. Haifa, Palestine, November 30, 1932.
The Guardian wishes me to draw the attention of the friends through you that they should be very careful in their public utterance not to mention any political figures—either side with them or denounce them. This is the first thing to bear in mind. Otherwise they will involve the friends in political matters, which is infinitely dangerous for the Cause. (signed) RUHI AFNAN, Haifa, Palestine, January 12, 1933.
From Mrs. French’s letter I gather that steps are being taken to gather the necessary material for Vol. V of The Bahá’í World. I am delighted, for it seems to indicate that Vol. IV will soon be published. I earnestly hope that its early publication will be reconsidered by your Assembly, as an indefinite postponement of such a valuable international record will damage the prestige of our beloved Cause. (signed) SHOGHI. Haifa, Palestine, January 12, 1933.
Cablegrams
Repeated evidences American believers sleepless vigilance courageous loyalty exemplary self-sacrifice established them in every Bahá’í heart as champion builders World Order Bahá’u’lláh. Founder of our Faith well pleased tokens their wise stewardship ’Abdu’l-Bahá proud of their valor Greatest Holy Leaf radiant with joy at their fidelity. SHOGHI. (Received February 18, 1933.)
Istanbul friends acquitted, 53 still imprisoned Adana. Urge renew energetically representations immediate release. SHOGHI. (Received March 7, 1933.)
LETTER FROM THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY[edit]
Beloved Friends:
The matter of the non—political character of the Bahá’í Faith has arisen this year for the purpose of stimulating deeper awareness of our privileges and responsibilities in the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh. Only four years ago the Guardian first upheld that glorious conception of the goal toward which humanity is being so rapidly impelled by the power of divine Will.
For many of us, the idea that we should no longer take any part in the normal political activities of our environment came as a distinct shock. The need that we arise to a higher vision and a more universal loyalty was not at first easy to appreciate. But little by little, thanks to the guidance given us by Shoghi Effendi, we can assimilate and make part of ourselves this inspiring new attitude the Guardian wishes for the protection of the Cause and our own spiritual well being.
Since the National Spiritual Assembly in December made the first effort to convey the Guardian’s instructions about non-participation in political affairs, further explanations have been received.
Thus, in a letter dated January 26, 1933, Shoghi Effendi referred to the Tablet which the Master revealed to Mr. Thornton Chase in 1907. “The Guardian fully recognizes the authenticity and controlling influence of this instruction from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá upon the question. He, however, feels under the responsibility of stating that the attitude taken by the Master implies certain reservations. He, therefore, lays it upon the individual conscience to see that in following the Master’s instructions no Bahá’í vote for an officer (i. e., in a civil election) nor Bahá’í participation in the affairs of the Republic shall involve acceptance by that individual of a program or policy that contravenes any vital principle, spiritual or social, of the Faith.”
The instruction of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá referred to above was as follows: “Thou hast asked regarding the political affairs. In the United States it is necessary that the citizens shall take part in elections. This is a necessary matter and no excuse from it is possible. My object in telling the believers that they should not interfere in the affairs of Government is this: that they should not move against the opinion of the Government, but obedience to the laws and the administration of the Commonwealth is necessary. Now, as the government of America is a republican form of government, it is necessary that all the citizens take part in the election of officers and take part in the affairs of the Republic.”
The Guardian’s letter of January 26, already quoted in part, has the following words in his own hand: “Dear Co-workers: I feel it incumbent upon me to clarify the above statement, written on my behalf, by stating that no vote cast, nor office undertaken, by a Bahá’í, should necessarily constitute acceptance, by the voter or officeholder, of the entire program of any political party. No Bahá’í can be regarded as either a Republican or Democrat as such. He is, above all else, the supporter of the principles enunciated by Bahá’u’lláh, with which, I am firmly convinced, the program of no political party is completely harmonious. Your true brother, Shoghi.”
On receipt of this letter, shortly after the February meeting, the Assembly requested the Guardian to advise how this subject should be treated in the next issue of BAHÁ’Í NEWS. On March 16 the following cablegram was received: “Elaborate, emphasize in News Letter excellent explanation paragraph five, page two, February News Letter. (signed) SHOGHI.”
That paragraph was as follows: “The instruction not to take part in political elections leaves us free to vote in any election where the various political parties have combined upon one candidate or one ticket. While Bahá’ís should not run for offices dominated by party politics, they are perfectly free to hold administrative posts based upon personal capacity, as for example the posts within the field of civil service examinations. Local Spiritual Assemblies should surely assume that each believer is entirely loyal to the Guardian’s request, and not take the step of requiring explicit obedience in advance. It is only in the event of deliberate disloyalty, when every effort of local consultation has failed, that the question of depriving anyone of his Bahá’í membership is involved.”
Now the members of the National Spiritual Assembly respond to the Guardian’s instruction that the explanation outlined in February’s BAHÁ’Í NEWS be elaborated and emphasized.
It seems clear at this time that we have no absolute prohibition not to vote in public elections, but rather a warning against allowing any exercise of our franchise as citizens to embroil the Cause or ourselves (as individuals) in partisan politics. We are all free to vote in such elections as are non-partisan— that is, where the parties have combined upon one set of candidates, and voting is not merely a choice between two or more party tickets. In enrolling ourselves upon the voting list, we should enroll without any party designation. Bahá’ís are free to hold office, when such office is of an administrative character.
Above all, we are reminded that Bahá’ís are invariably loyal and obedient to the Government, irrespective of change from one party control to another. Let us recall those words written by the Guardian in his general letter dated January 1, 1929 and published soon afterward in BAHÁ’Í NEWS: “To all these (i. e., actions of the Soviet Government) the followers of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh have with feelings of burning agony and heroic fortitude unanimously and unreservedly submitted, ever mindful of the guiding principles of Bahá’í conduct that in connection with their administrative activities, no matter how grievously interference with them might affect the course of the extension of the Movement, and the suspension of which does not constitute in itself a departure from the principle of loyalty to their Faith, the considered judgment and authoritative decrees issued by their responsible rulers must, if they be faithful to Bahá’u’lláh’s and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s express injunctions, be thoroughly respected and loyally obeyed. In matters, however, that vitally affect the integrity and honor of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh, and are tantamount to a recantation of their faith and repudiation of their innermost belief, they are convinced, and are unhesitatingly prepared to vindicate by their life-blood the sincerity of their conviction, that no power on earth, neither the arts of the most insidious adversary nor the bloody weapons of the most tyrannical oppressor, can ever succeed in extorting from them a word or deed that might tend to stifle the voice of their conscience or tarnish the purity of their faith.”
In a world through which runs so many conflicting torrents of popular passion and partisan struggle, the spirit of calm peace, of steadfast faith and unswerving assurance marks the true Bahá’í and sets off a Bahá’í community from every other type of human gathering. The wisdom of the Guardian’s appeal, its conformity to the essential teachings of Bahá’u’lláh and also to the present transitional condition of society, will not fail to win the heart and convince the reason of every avowed Bahá’í.
We believers, having no concern with the fruitless political and economic efforts of those endeavoring to maintain the structure of the past, but concerned heart and soul with the privilege of contributing our life to the Cause, can turn to an unfailing source of confidence, of wisdom, of courage and of power. In the establishment of Local, National and International Bahá’í communities, we have the most glorious field of service ever granted to man. In this field the innate capacities of human being will gradually unfold, grow in discipline and mature in sacrifice. Emotion transmuted to the higher plane of devotion to the Bahá’í community; thought ennobled and expanded by the daily vision of the needs of a dynamic Faith; will and action severed from self and placed at the disposition of the Cause of God—this, beloved friends, is the realization that must be ours if we would follow our Guardian to the ultimate Goal!
- Yours faithfully,
- NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY.
THE GUARDIAN’S MESSAGE OF LOVING ENCOURAGEMENT TO LOCAL GROUPS[edit]
Just at this time, when the Teaching Committee is making every effort to assist local groups to develop to the point of electing a Spiritual Assembly, it is most helpful to find, in The Star of the West for May, 1923, a message of loving encouragement written by Shoghi Effendi to believers in a number of American cities.
His words follow:—
“Dearest Fellow-workers in the Vineyard of God:
“Though your number in each of these cities be small and limited, yet by virtue of that Celestial Potency bequeathed to every one of you by our departed Master, you are assured that ere long your small company shall expand and wield such power and influence as no earthly power can ever hope for or attain. Who can doubt that He is ever watching from His Station on high over His scattered fold and is guiding and strengthening His faithful lovers who toil and labor for the fulfilment of His word and the realization of His purpose for mankind?
“As we observe the sad conditions of the world and the complexity of the problems that are besetting humanity, we may at times lose heart and grow forgetful of the promised dawn of the New Day, so repeatedly and emphatically foretold in the Sacred Writings. But we need only refer to some of the earliest writings of our beloved Master to regain that confidence which the vicissitudes of the world, however distressing, can never shake. Are not these words wherein He assures us of the onward march of the Cause—a march which no one can resist and which is sure to lead humanity to its glorious destiny—(abundantly sufficient) ?
“‘Now in the world of being, the Hand of Divine Power hath firmly laid the foundations of the all-highest bounty and this wondrous gift. Whatsoever is latent in the innermost of this Holy Cycle shall gradually appear and be made manifest, for now is but the beginning of its growth and the dayspring of the revelation of its signs. Ere the close of this century and of this age it shall be made clear and evident how wondrous was that springtide and how heavenly was that gift!’”
“And as the outlook grows darker and despondency overtakes the hearts, it is incumbent upon us to arise with greater confidence than ever before, endeavoring to clear the mists of hate and prejudice that have dimmed the vision of mankind and, relying upon these assuring words of His, point out to a weary world the way of true Salvation.
“I very eagerly await the news of the progress of the Movement in your cities and shall be grateful and delighted to hear that you have reinforced your numbers, extended your activities, established a center and founded a Spiritual Assembly that shall direct and coordinate your efforts for the promotion of the Cause.
“Awaiting your joyful news and beseeching the blessings of the Almighty on your efforts, I am
- Your brother and co-worker,
- SHOGHI.
- Your brother and co-worker,
Haifa, Palestine,
January 8, 1923.”
ANNUAL LOCAL ELECTIONS[edit]
On April 21 members of local Bahá’í communities will gather together for the purpose of electing their Spiritual Assembly.
Reports recently received makes it evident that this year a number of new Spiritual Assemblies will be established. This is a matter of extreme importance in the steady growth of the Cause.
Representatives of the Teaching Committee will make every effort to visit the groups which have become ready to form an Assembly, to lend advice and assistance and encourage the believers undertaking this great step.
IN MEMORIUM[edit]
The friends are requested to remember in their prayers the spirits of these beloved departed believers:
Mr. S. T. Ditmars, Spokane, Washington.
Mr. Arthur James, Bloomfield, New Jersey.
Mr. Augustus Dobleman, Baltimore, Maryland.
Mrs. Henrietta Wagner, Santa Barbara, California.
Dr. Emma McKay Appel, Chicago, Illinois.
“Concerning funeral services, Shoghi Effendi wishes me to state that there are no special ceremonies provided by Bahá’u’lláh and the few that exist are written in the book of Akdas. Whenever that book is translated into English and published, then you will undoubtedly obtain the necessary guidance by its contents.” (Letter from the Guardian, through his secretary, to Mr. Willard Hatch, dated Haifa, Palestine, November 20, 1932.)
CENTRAL STATES SUMMER SCHOOL[edit]
Plans are being made for the third session of the Central States Bahá’í Summer School at Louhelen Ranch, Davison, Michigan, nine miles from Flint.
The dates set are June 25-July 3 inclusive, a month earlier than last year. Courses are being planned in Bahá’í administration, the Iqán, Nabil’s Narrative, the Influence of Religion on Society. There may be other courses if there is demand. There will be special classes for young people under the counsellorship of Mrs. Dorothy Baker. New Pullman apartments have been added in the big barn so that many more can be accommodated than last year.
Look for further announcements in the May issue of the BAHÁ’Í NEWS. Reservations may be made by writing to Mrs. L. W. Eggleston, 201 E. Kirby Street, Detroit, Michigan.
CONVENTION COMMITTEES[edit]
The Committees named by the National Spiritual Assembly to serve in connection with arrangements for the Convention are announced at this time. Next month will be published the Convention Agenda, setting forth the topics on which consultation is considered most important. Suggestions for the Agenda will be welcomed from all elected to be delegates at the forthcoming Convention.
Committee on Decoration of Foundation Hall—Mrs. Hilpert, chairman, Mrs. Barton.
Committee on Music and Selection of Prayers for Opening Business Sessions—Mrs. Walrath, chairman, Mrs. Matthisen.
Feast Committee — Mrs. Amelia Collins, chairman, Mrs. Nourse, Dr. Leonora Morris, Mr. Andrew Matthisen.
Committee on Devotional Services in Temple Auditorium—Mr. Scheffler, chairman, Mr. Albert Windust, Mrs. Gift, Mr. Andrew Nelson, Mrs. True, Mrs. Paine, Mr. Barnard Jacobson.
Committee on Hospitality—Miss Edna True, chairman, Mrs. May Scheffler. Note: Inquiries about rooms and board, and reservations for hotel accommodations, should be directed to this Committee. In view of the unusual demand for rooms on account of the Century of Progress Exposition, the Committee urges all delegates and Bahá’í visitors to make their arrangements as soon as possible.
PUBLISHING ANNOUNCEMENTS[edit]
The Publishing Committee announces three important additions to the Bahá’í literature.
National and Local By-Laws. The text of the National Declaration of Trust, and also By-Laws suitable for a Local Spiritual Assembly, has been issued in pamphlet form, to sell at 10c each. Librarians are urged to order a supply, that all believers may acquaint themselves as to the details of our administrative principles.
Bahá’í Administration—New Edition. The volume containing the Guardian’s letters, published in the early months of 1928, has been enlarged to include all his general letters up to the present time. Among the important communications received from Haifa since the date of the first edition are: the two World Order letters, The Goal of a New World Order, The Golden Age of the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh and the Guardian’s Tribute to the Greatest Holy Leaf. The National and Local By-Laws are also included. This edition is an indispensable part of every believer’s Bahá’í library. Per copy, $2.00.
The Bahá’í World—Volume IV. The Guardian considers this biennial record of Bahá’í activities a work of international importance, second only to the construction of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár. The new volume—ready in April—is rich in illustrations as well as textual content. As the National Spiritual Assembly guarantees the cost of publication, all purchases of this book represent contributions to the Temple Fund just as though the same amount were sent direct. Each month the Publishing Committee will remit to the National Assembly all receipts from sales of The Bahá’í World, in the same way as is done in the case of The Dawn-Breakers. In order to know the international aspects of the Cause, believers must make a careful study of this work. Shoghi Effendi is its editor in chief, and gave much time to arrangement of its content. $2.50 per copy.
INTER-RACIAL AMITY ACTIVITIES[edit]
The outstanding events since my last report in the way of racial amity, which in view of pressure of work must be given in very brief compass, follow:
December 9 and 10, 1932, an amity conference was held in New York City, with the local and National Committee cooperating with the Urban League of New York. An overwhelming number of the speakers and workers were Bahá’ís and there was a fine and enthusiastic response on the part of the most cultured circles of Harlem and other parts of the city.
The conference was divided into several sessions. At the first, devoted to economics, our noble brother, Mr. Samuel A. Allen, presided. Speakers were Mr. Ira De A. Reid, director of the research department of the National Urban League, Dr. Genevieve Coy of Columbia University and Miss Elsa Russell, who covered in a most helpful way the past and present, with a vision of the new economics of the Bahá’í teachings.
At the second session Mr. Philip A. Marangella presided with his usual dignity. The speakers were Mr. Louis G. Gregory, Dr. Alain Locke, Mrs. Wanden M. LaFarge and Mr. James H. Hubert. This session covered many phases of racial amity.
A musical at which Mrs. Ludmila Bechtold presided was held in the auditorium of the Harlem Branch of the New York Public Library. One of its special charms was African music. This was followed by a session devoted to art, at which the speakers were Mr. Saffa Kinney, who strongly advised the colored race to improve their wonderful native gifts in music uninfluenced by foreign masters, so as to make a great contribution, and Mr. Arthur A. Schomberg, director of the Schomberg collection of books about the Negro, who exhibited and explained his fascinating studies. This session was followed by an interracial social. For a number of years, in fact since the first amity convention in Washington, Dr. Alain Locke has during the years been a contributor to the work of the Cause, without formally identifying himself with it. Perhaps the most significant feature of this conference was his strong, eloquent and beautiful address, in which he took a decided and definite stand within the ranks of the Cause. This attitude we believe will increasingly with the years influence people of capacity to investigate the mines of spiritual wealth to be found in the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh. It will also make what has long been a grandly useful life more glorious, serviceable and influential than ever before. It is to be hoped that the friends both locally and nationally, will largely make use of the great powers of Dr. Locke both in the teaching and administrative fields of the Cause. He has made the pilgrimage to Haifa. The Master in a Tablet praised him highly and it is known that the Guardian shares his love for our able brother.
The Committee of Arrangements for this conference, led by Mr. Samuel A. Allen and including Miss Lauretta Noisette, Mrs. James H. Hubert, Mrs. E. P. Roberts, Mrs. Ludmila Bechtold and Mrs. Lois Allen, merit much admiration for their wise and proficient services. An interracial dinner was another feature.
The Bahá’í Assembly of Portsmouth, N. H., cooperated well with the Citizens Committee in observance of the commemoration of emancipation day on January 2. A dinner was followed by a large meeting of both races. The newly elected mayor of Portsmouth spent the entire evening with this occasion, as did a municipal judge. A Bahá’í served as master of ceremonies and another Bahá’í as principal speaker. Mrs. Loulie Mathews, chairman of this committee, on her amity tour has reached Honolulu. Another interracial tour is about to start for the South.
The National Bahá’í Committee for
- Racial Amity,
- By Louis G. GREGORY,
- Secretary.
- By Louis G. GREGORY,
NATIONAL TEACHING COMMITTEE[edit]
Activities of Western Division
During the month of January pracitically all of the Bahá’í communities in California were visited by friends from other sections who brought them much inspiration as well as gratifying news of Bahá’í activities in various parts of the United States. Mrs. Florence Morton of Worcester, Massachusetts, was one such visitor to the state. Her inspiring reports of the teaching work of the Assemblies in the region which she represents on the National Teaching Committee gave great joy to the friends in the west as well as suggestions for new lines of endeavor. Mrs. Morton spoke at a Sunday morning meeting on the San Francisco Assembly and later in the week at a joint meeting of the Oakland and Berkeley friends in Oakland and in both places she impressed the friends with the fact that the earnest desire to teach opens the way and that united action upon any plan such as that of the National Teaching Committee this year brings opportunities and results, the like of which could not have been anticipated. From Central California, Mrs. Morton went to Los Angeles and Pasadena where she spent a few short days with the friends before leaving for the east. While she was in San Francisco the executive of the Western Section had the pleasure and privilege of consulting with her on many items which were discussed at its committee meeting.
Mr. George Latimer of Portland and Mrs. Millie Collins of Pasadena, were also in San Francisco a few days, primarily in connection with Geyserville Summer School plans but they were able to attend a Sunday morning meeting of the friends and as usual brought them fresh enthusiasm and joy.
Mr. Forsyth Ward and Mrs. Ward spent several days in Southern California early in the month, visiting Visalia, Long Beach, Pasadena, Glendale and Los Angeles. Meetings were arranged for the friends in each of these cities and Prof. Ward in his talks dealt mostly upon the unified plan of action and the extreme importance of completing the plans for the Temple as set forth by Shoghi Effendi and the National Spiritual Assembly.
Late in the month Mrs. Loulie Mathews and Mrs. Marion Little, who spent several weeks in Honolulu, returned to San Francisco where they spent a few days before going to Geyserville for a short visit. Both met with the San Francisco friends at their regular Sunday morning meeting and gave interesting news of the work being done by the friends in the Pacific.
The Bahá’ís of San Francisco Bay area were the participants in three rather important events among the negroes during the month. By invitation, Mrs. Ella Cooper addressed one section of the annual convention of the Federated Colored Women’s Clubs of California which met in San Francisco. Her subject, “Co-operation,” was very timely because of the fact that a serious effort was being made to draw the clubs of the northern and southern parts of the state into closer relationship. Many inquiries regarding the Cause have been received as a result of Mrs. Cooper’s address.
Mrs. Cooper was also the guest speaker at the annual meeting of the Colored Branch of the Oakland Y. W. C. A., being advertised on the programs as a Bahá’í. Her subject which dealt with the removal of differences was exceedingly well received and the Oakland friends are hopeful that it will do much toward drawing the two branches of the Y. W. C. A. in that city into closer cooperation.
Miss Charlotte Linfoot was the speaker at the 20th Annual Women’s Day program among the Colored Baptist Churches in Oakland, taking as her main theme the Bahá’í teachings concerning the equality of men and women and referring to the new station made possible for women through the great sacrifices of Tahirih and Zaynab. A minister from one of the Baptist Churches for white people in East Oakland was present and asked many questions concerning the Cause following the service.
Reports have reached the Committee of two new study groups which have been organized during the past month—one in San Diego and the other in La Jolla—as a result of the efforts of Mr. Stephen Kittsmiller who is making his residence in San Diego for some time. Literature and assistance in his work have been provided by the Teaching Committee.
The consignment of books in Chinese and Russian sent the committee in December has been distributed among the various Assemblies in the West. As far as possible the requests for a definite number of the books were filled and to those Assemblies from which no orders were received a few samples were sent with suggestions for their use. Each Assembly has been asked to report on its local distribution of these books. When these reports have been received a general statement will be compiled for the N. S. A.
The Committee has decided to send to each Assembly a small supply of “The Goal of the New World Order,” with suggestions as to its distribution in the community. So far as possible the Committee is cooperating with the N. S. A. in its endeavor to get this publication into the hands of all leaders in this country.
Plans have been made to follow up recent communications sent by the N. S. A. to groups, with offers of assistance from the Teaching Committee and encouragement to enlarge the number of Bahá’ís looking toward the organization of Assemblies. Continued efforts are being made to stimulate activity among the isolated friends as well.
Letters have been sent to all Assemblies in the west asking for reports from which the committee may compile its annual report for the Convention. Special requests were made for information as to applications which have been made of the teaching program as outlined to the Assemblies early in the summer.
A Committee meeting was held in San Francisco, January 14th, of which the N. S. A. has already had a copy of the minutes.
- CHARLOTTE M. LINFOOT,
- Secretary, Western Section,
- National Spiritual Assembly.
COMMITTEE ON TEACHING AND TRAINING OF CHILDREN[edit]
The work of the Committee on the Teaching and Training of Children continues to be more or less in the nature of study and research and planning for future development. The second set in the series of four sets of lesson outlines has been approved by the Reviewing Committee and will be mimeographed and mailed to the Assemblies upon receipt of their orders. Only a few Assemblies have ordered these lessons to date. The Committee is not discouraged, however, since the Christmas holiday is not long past and time is required to consult and plan for the work. The third and fourth sections of the outline will be submitted to the Reviewing Committee at the same time and it is hoped that the full set of lessons will be in the hands of the teachers who want them by the first or middle of March at the latest.
Several teachers and secretaries have sent in letters expressing complete satisfaction with the material received to date. The Chicago classes are using the subject matter in the first set of lessons and building excellent programs out of it, including plays, poems, etc.
The Pasadena Assembly plans to introduce the material to a class of colored children; other Assemblies are also planning classes for the spring.
Requests are being received from a number of Assemblies for suggestions for adolescent groups. This is a matter to which the Committee plans to give special attention as quickly as possible. Some of the groups in existence at the present time are studying various Bahá’í books, a number of them studying portions of “The Dawn Breakers.”
The Geyserville Summer School Committee has placed upon the western members of the Committee on the Teaching and Training of Children the responsibility for planning the children’s department of the Summer School this year. A large number of village children attend the school each year and the tentative plan at present is to present to them certain portions of the outlines which are already available.
The Committee is greatly encouraged over the splendid letters of suggestions which are coming in, and yet, as the work develops the field becomes wider and wider and there comes an ever—growing sense of responsibility and opportunity in this new phase of Bahá’í activity.
- CHARLOTTE M. LINFOOT,
- Secretary.
- CHARLOTTE M. LINFOOT,
POONA BAHA’IS’ TEMPLE CONTRIBUTION[edit]
Dear Friends:
Recently our Guardian was graciously pleased to bestow on us a gift of five copies of the Persian Translation of Dr. Esslemont’s famous book. Moved with gratitude too deep for words at this fresh token of his grace, the believers of Poona prayerfully resolved to make a special contribution for the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár. For most of the friends this was too truly an occasion of emptying themselves, fountain-like, of all that they had, relying on the unfailing bounty of the source of all wealth and all good. One noble soul, who had three mouths dependent upon him for bread, who was under notice to quit within a fortnight from that date the small shop that yielded them the necessities of life,—whose uncomplaining wife, even then, was sorely ill and with child—gave, with a radiant smile, gave till nine lone annas was all that was left to him of his capital. To take the instance of another soul, a heroic Bahá’í who, despite the burden of a debt which he was courageously striving to repay, was yet regularly contributing his mite to the Assembly’s fund. From his meagre earnings he had laid aside a pittance throughout the summer and autumn months for the purchase of a rug with which he hoped to ward off, in a measture, the severity of the cruel nights of winter, but, wishing not to be deprived of the privilege of contributing his share to our Mother Temple, he forthwith offered all his savings, joyfully deciding to forego the “luxury” of a rug and to endure the long wintry nights even as before, without a cover over him, with but cheerless plank under him.
Thus did the friends give, thus was a collection made. We then informed our Beloved and back came his precious reply, this cheering, loving message:— “He (Shoghi Effendi) was very glad and gratified to learn that the friends of Poona have contributed the sum of one thousand rupees towards the construction of the Temple in America. It is a most appropriate and timely contribution because the friends have undertaken to complete the exterior decoration of the dome before the end of spring, that is, before the opening of the World Fair that is to be opened in Chicago about June of next year. And the sum needed for the purpose, due to the existing depression, is not flowing in. Any sum offered by the friends at this time is most welcomed and will be deeply appreciated by Shoghi Effendi and the friends in America.
“The Guardian is most pleased with the way the friends in Poona are striving to serve the Faith and consecrating their life for its promotion. In his hours of prayer at the blessed Shrines he will think of them and ask God to help them and sustain their noble endeavors. He trusts that, through their persistent efforts and Bahá’u’lláh’s infinite blessings the Cause will be established in that land and thousands of pure souls will be brought under its banner.” Ruhi Afnan. And in our Guardian’s own blessed hand this postscript:—
“Dear co-workers: I am eagerly awaiting the news of the completion of the Urdu, the Hindi, the Gujrati, and the Burmese translations, and eventual publication of Dr. Esslemont’s valued book, for I regard them as essential preliminaries to an intensive campaign of teaching among the unbelieving masses in that great and promising country. May your efforts, in collaboration with the believers of that land, hasten the fulfilment of this, my heart’s cherished desire.”—SHOGHI.
In the general Epistle dated December 6, 1928, our Guardian defines what the nature of our contributions to the Temple fund should be:—“Not by the abundance of our donations, not even by the spontaneity of our efforts, but rather by the degree of self-abnegation which our contributions will entail, can we effectively promote the speedy realization of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s cherished desire. How great our responsibility, how immense our task, how priceless the advantages that we can reap!”
May our Almighty Father from on High bless our united efforts and enable us, one and all, to attain that station to which our Guardian calls us—the station of utter self-renunciation. Ya-Bahá’il—Abha!
The Poona Bahá’í Spiritual Assembly,
- RUSTOM KHOSROVE,
- Secretary.
- RUSTOM KHOSROVE,
Post Box No. 8, Poona.
December 30, 1932.
TELEGRAM TO AMERICAN ASSEMBLIES, MARCH 30, 1933:—
“THE INTENSEST EFFORT AND A STILL HIGHER, A MORE COMPELLING EVIDENCE OF THE VITALITY OF OUR FAITH ARE REQUIRED TO INSURE THE REALIZATION OF OUR FONDEST HOPES.” THIS MESSAGE RECEIVED TODAY FROM BELOVED GUARDIAN. CONSUMMATION (OF TEMPLE CONSTRUCTION BY JUNE FIRST) REQUIRES ONE HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS IMMEDIATELY. URGE HOLDING WEEKLY MEETINGS CONSULTATION AND FERVENT SUPPLICATION. LOVING GREETINGS.
