Bahá’í News/Issue 74/Text

From Bahaiworks

[Page 1]


BAHA’I NEWS


Published by
The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís
of the United States and Canada
General Office: Evergreen Cabin, West Englewood, New Jersey


No. 74
MAY, 1933

Twenty-Fifth Annual Convention of the Baha’is of the United States and Canada[edit]

June 1, 2, 3 and 4, 1933 — Foundation Hall Baha’i House of Worship, Wilmette, Illinois

Agenda[edit]

Convention sessions will be held from 9:30 A. M. to 1 P. M., from 2 P. M. to 5 P. M. and from 7:30 P. M. to 9:30 P. M. daily, except that on Friday evening will be held a Bahá’í Feast, and on Sunday, June 4, the afternoon session will be omitted in order to hold a public meeting at 3:30 P. M. The morning sessions on Friday, Saturday and Sunday will begin with a devotional service in the Temple Auditorium. The Convention will close with the public meeting on Sunday afternoon:

Order of Business[edit]

Opening of Convention by Chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly.

Roll Call of Delegates.
Election of Presiding Officer and Secretary of Convention.
Reading of Communications from Shoghi Effendi.
Convention Message to Shoghi Effendi.

Discussion of Annual Reports of National Spiritual Assembly and National ‎ Committees‎. (These reports are published in the present issue of BAHÁ’Í NEWS.)

Election of National Spiritual Assembly at 3 P. M., Friday, June 2.

Deliberation on current Bahá’í subjects of national and international importance:—

  1. Completion of the Temple.
  2. Non-Political Character of the Bahá’í Faith.
  3. Functions of a Local Spiritual Assembly.
  4. Appeals from Local to National Assembly.
  5. Qualifications of Voting Members in Local Communities.
  6. Bahá’í Summer Schools.
  7. Inter-Assembly Activities.
  8. Teaching methods — new approaches to the public in the Guardian’s World Order letters.
  9. Publicity, local and national.
  10. Youth Activities.
  11. Importance of Nineteen Day Feasts.
  12. Economic and Social Aspects of the Teachings.


Note: These general topics are proposed in order to induce deeper consideration of fundamental Bahá’í matters. The time devoted to any topic will be decided by the Delegates in Convention. Any Delegate may move to introduce other subjects for discussion at any time. Non-Delegates may only participate in the Convention through representation by a Delegate, except at the morning session on Sunday, June 4, when discussion is open to all Bahá’ís without distinction. The Twenty-fifth Annual Convention has been planned so as to devote to active consultation the time hitherto given to the reading of Annual Reports. Delegates are requested to study the Annual Reports before attending the Convention.

ANNUAL REPORT NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHA’IS OF THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA 1932-1933[edit]

To the Bahá’ís of the United States and Canada, through the Delegates of the Twenty-fifth Annual Convention.
Beloved Friends:

In a rapidly evolving Cause, the ultimate aim of which is to fulfil the principle of the oneness of mankind in the realm of spirit, and to establish that principle by means of a World Order in the realm of affairs, the relations between any one Bahá’í body, such as the National Spiritual Assembly, and other Bahá’í bodies and the believers, cannot remain rigid and static, but are in a state of constant development representing degrees of progress made by all Bahá’í efforts to attain the common goal.

An Annual Convention represents, among its many important functions, a proper and suitable occasion for the believers to mark carefully what steps of progress appear to have been made during the year now terminated, and to ponder deeply what specific lines of progress should be attempted in the year to come.

Every American believer will agree that this past Bahá’í year has been characterized by three supremely important events: First, the receipt of the Guardian’s general letter known as “The Golden Age of the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh”; second, the Ascension of the Greatest Holy Leaf; and third, the sacred obligation laid upon us to complete the external decoration of the Temple dome.

It will be recalled that copies of “The Golden Age of the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh” were distributed first among the Delegates who attended the Twenty-fourth Annual Convention, and its text read at the opening session of that Convention. Then it was that we

[Page 2] American believers became aware of the fact that predominant responsibilities were henceforth to rest upon the shoulders of American Bahá’ís, to the same degree that in the early days of the Cause they were laid upon our Persian brothers. That same letter likewise set forth clearly the non-political character of the Bahá’í Faith, and closed with the Guardian’s prayer that the Temple dome might be completed by the date of the opening of the Chicago Fair.

In these days, Reality in terms of human development and of Bahá’í action enters the world through Shoghi Effendi and is by him communicated to the followers of Bahá’u’lláh in East and West as their supreme privilege and highest obligation. We who share possession of his words may and indeed must precede all human beings in our understanding of world events and our capacity to stand firm in the operation of the Divine Will. Since it has been made known to us that this continent is to lead in the establishment of righteousness, and that the supreme hour has come for the completion of the House of Worship, the Guardian’s fervent wishes concerning the Temple dome can only be interpreted by us as a plea that by unremitting struggle and sacrifice the American believers make their full contribution to the Cause of Universal Peace. Far more than any architectural achievement; far more than any new Shrine dedicated to God, the building of this Temple is a conscious assertion of the power descended from on high to unify mankind and bring humanity under the rule of divine Justice. There is thus for each of us a unique measure of possibility in even the trivial actions of our daily lives, since we have power to determine whether these actions are aimed to assist the work of the Temple or are merely confined within the little circle of our personal affairs.

Whatever we find accomplished when as Delegates we approach the Temple on June first, that accomplishment will be far less than could have been achieved. The Guardian cannot wish the impossible for us. Rather do his wishes reveal what is possible if we but rise above our limited selves and move in the radiant atmosphere of the Holy Spirit.

The present National Spiritual Assembly in taking up its duties had before it the unanimous pledge made by the Delegates at the last Convention that they would strive to meet the Guardian’s wishes concerning the Temple dome.

TEMPLE CONSTRUCTION PHOTOGRAPH

(New Series) No. 5

Rib and Panel Models on framework at Earley plant.

As soon as possible the Temple Trustees accordingly entered into an agreement with John J. Earley under the terms of which Mr. Earley was to go forward with the external decoration of the dome as rapidly as permitted by funds placed at his disposal on a total estimated cost of $150,000. The amounts available for construction from time to time during the year have been duly reported in BAHÁ’Í NEWS. Not until the local communities received the telegram sent by the National Spiritual Assembly on March 30, 1933, was the heart of the Cause in America truly inspired with determination to achieve the difficult but necessary task.

Very significant sacrifices have been made, and tremendous efforts put forth by believers in every local community for the sake of the Temple. In this connection it might be remarked that we are all called upon to realize that no matter how important are the results accomplished by spurts of enthusiasm, the nature of this task, and its magnitude, demand the working out of plans carefully made far in advance, and require, in addition to the power of enthusiasm, the sustained vigor of effort maintained day by day over long periods of time.

It was in June, 1931 that the National Spiritual Assembly issued the “New Plan of Unified Action” which contemplated the accumulation of sufficient funds to make possible a renewal of Temple construction. Difficult as the economic situation was at that time, it was from 20% to 40% more favorable than conditions at present. Vital as enthusiasm is in a spiritual Cause, it seems evident that a steadily maintained effort begun in June, 1931, could have produced a larger Temple Fund by now than the method we have actually pursued, of remaining quiescent for one year and then attempting to press forward during the last few months of the allotted time.

As a matter of record it is significant to note that in December, 1931, the Guardian sent this cablegram: “Kindly cable approximate time and expense required to complete external ornamentation first Temple unit. stop. Cable date opening Chicago Fair.” Thus the Guardian, after it became apparent that the “New Plan of Unified Action” (which he had strongly endorsed), had not penetrated our hearts, himself assumed control of the matter and from that time to the present has sought to quicken our spirits and concentrate our efforts upon the one goal. This brief history is recounted here in order to emphasize the vital fact that devotion to the highest interests of the Cause, to be completely fruitful, must be translated into steady daily thought and action, and not into occasional “drives” under emotional stimulus which will inevitably recede.

The Bahá’í event next in order of time was the Ascension of the Greatest Holy Leaf, made known to us by cablegram from the Guardian in July, 1932. Then began that period of mourning fixed by Shoghi Effendi for the worldwide Bahá’í community that the believers might undergo inner purification; and then came to us that Tribute which Shoghi Effendi wrote in his own hand—words of the most poignant grief, exquisite love and ardent aspiration, before which the hearts of all Bahá’ís were bowed in silence.

The Guardian’s Tribute has since, together with his other general letters written to America since 1927, been incorporated in a new edition of Bahá’í Administration, prepared by the National Spiritual Assembly and published by the Publishing Committee this Spring. This text has basic importance in that it reveals to us both the nature of the Cause at this stage of its development and also lays bare

[Page 3] the ills afflicting the society in which we live. Our collective association and action for the Cause receives its guidance and its inspiration from this source.

From the letters and cablegrams which the National Spiritual Assembly has received from the Guardian since the last Convention — letters written through his secretary—excerpts have been published in BAHÁ’Í NEWS embodying all general instructions and information. The Assembly has also published excerpts from letters written by the Guardian, through his secretary, to individual believers and Local Assemblies. Thus, BAHÁ’Í NEWS for July, 1932, quoted two cablegrams; the August issue quoted the message concerning the Greatest Holy Leaf; in September a number of references to the Temple were published; the December issue contained an important statement addressed to the Chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly; in January, 1933, a statement written to the National Treasurer was quoted; the February number contained Shoghi Effendi’s explanation of the status he intends us to give to his letters to individual believers and also two cablegrams; while in April was quoted the cablegram received February 18, 1933 conveying such joy to American Bahá’ís.

Late in April the Guardian’s translation of Tablets revealed by Bahá’ulláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to the Greatest Holy Leaf, at his request, was published as a pamphlet and copies given to believers throughout the West.

The Bahá’í World, Volume IV, will according to present information be published about May 12th. The friends understand, from statements made by Shoghi Effendi during recent years, that this work has special significance as an international Bahá’í activity. Volume IV would normally have been published shortly after April, 1932, but the National Spiritual Assembly felt unable to authorize this rather considerable expenditure until February, 1933.

Communications from the Assembly have as far as possible been published in BAHÁ’Í NEWS in order to place them in the hands of all the friends. Reference might be made to several statements on subjects of permanent importance: The statement on “Qualifications of Membership in a Bahá’í Community,” published in August, 1932; on “A Plea for Increased Effort in Bahá’í Teaching,” published in November; on “The Non—Political Character of the Bahá’í Faith,” in successive statements published in December,


TEMPLE CONSTRUCTION PHOTOGRAPH

(New Series) No. 6

Detail of plaster model of clerestory section of rib.

1932, and in February and April, 1933; and on “The Attitude of the National Spiritual Assembly on Appeals from Local Spiritual Assemblies,” published in February, 1933. It may be in order to suggest that each Local Spiritual Assembly might maintain a special file in which to preserve all such general statements the effect of which is not limited to one brief period of time. For while personal attention is subject to change, and personal memory has definite limitations, an institution of the character and importance of a Local Spiritual Assembly can and in fact must transcend the limitations of human personality so as to carry forward the results of general Bahá’í experience from year to year.

In the field of international Bahá’í action the year has been extremely significant. Among the matters of international importance to be recalled are: The appointment of Mrs. Keith Ransom-Kehler as representative of the American National Assembly to submit to the Shah of Persia a petition that the ban on entry and circulation of Bahá’í literature be raised; the generous and beautiful gift to the Temple Fund made by the Persian believers in the form of a number of costly rugs; the request made by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Egypt that pending its recognition by the Egyptian Government as an independent religious body a branch of the American National Assembly be duly constituted in Egypt, after the manner of the American branch constituted by the Guardian in Palestine; the imprisonment and subsequent release of believers in Turkey, after urgent representations had been made to the Turkish Government by the American Assembly at the Guardian’s request; the continuance of notable teaching work by Miss Martha Root, Mrs. Louise Gregory, Miss Marion Jack, and Miss Louise Wright in Europe, and by Dr. Moody, Mrs. and Miss Sharp and Mrs. Ransom-Kehler in Persia; the cooperation extended in the publication of Bahá’í literature in Chinese and Russian; and above all, the Guardian’s plan of establishing Palestine branches of other National Spiritual Assemblies and of creating American branches in Persia and Iraq,—a comprehensive and far-sighted plan which will no doubt have an important bearing upon the international growth and stability of the Cause in future years. The results of the mission undertaken by Mr. Mountfort Mills for the Guardian in connection with the effort to secure the Holy Shrines at Bagdad are not known at the moment this report is being prepared.

The National Spiritual Assembly has this year sought to define more carefully the scope and operation of individual teachers, the relation of Committees to the Assembly, the conditions under which believers may appeal from decisions of Local Spiritual Assemblies, the acceptance of new members by Local Assemblies, and the recognition of local groups and isolated believers.

A distinctly new trend set in motion has been the assumption of fuller responsibility by Local Spiritual Assemblies for the promotion of all Bahá’í activities in their respective areas of jurisdiction. The day when local communities may passively await representatives of National Committees to initiate teaching, racial amity and other activities has passed. The result will be to stimulate each Local Assembly in development toward its final consummation as a Local House of Justice.

Two amendments have been duly voted in the By-Laws of the National Spiritual Assembly, and incorporated in the revised text recently published.

A full report cannot yet be made on the number of Local Spiritual Assemblies

[Page 4] newly constituted or re-established on April 21, 1933, but from information already received it is gratifying and encouraging to note that at least four new communities had the intention of forming an Assembly on April 21.

A very large portion of the activities of the Cause are reported in the Annual Reports of the various National Committees, so that further detail in this report would only be duplication. Committee reports are in fact to be viewed as supplementary to this statement.

A great measure of gratitude is due the members of the many Committees whose active efforts, maintained under a very minimum of expenditure, have enabled the National Spiritual Assembly to administer an ever-increasing range of Bahá’í activities in America. The Assembly, in fact, took the unprecedented step some months ago of cancelling all the customary Committee budgets for the sake of the Temple Fund. The National Fund, however, bears a permanent responsibility in addition to Temple construction and maintenance, as will be readily appreciated by careful analysis of the different interests represented by the list of National Committees.

To create a complete record of the year it would be necessary to add to this report not only the Committee reports but also statements from each Local Spiritual Assembly covering its activities during the same period. Since it is not yet feasible to publish so much material, the Assembly has requested the Local bodies to keep the believers informed through circular letters. We hope that the practice of issuing monthly circular letters will be more generally adopted next year.

If we may venture an opinion on the most important development to be met in the immediate future, it would seem that the Bahá’í world, and particularly the Bahá’ís of North America, are being prepared to bear an increasingly heavy responsibility in relation to the general public. Swiftly is the Cause being transformed from a small, weak and inconspicuous movement into a movement which will be carefully studied and emphatically challenged from pulpit and press. Only with true inward assurance, calm courage, sound knowledge of the Teachings and administrative principles and with confidence in our administrative institutions can we successfully pass through such an era and transform its problems and difficulties into occasion for the advancement of


TEMPLE CONSTRUCTION PHOTOGRAPH

(New Series) No. 7

Models of clerestory section of rib.

the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh.

Faithfully yours,
NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY
By: HORACE HOLLEY, Secretary

ANNUAL REPORT—SUPPLEMENTARY STATEMENT[edit]

Since this report was prepared, the National Spiritual Assembly has received two communications from the Guardian to which the friends will give most careful attention.

The first of these was the letter dated Haifa, April 11, 1933, and published in BAHÁ’Í NEWS for May. In this letter the Guardian explains his views on the matter of removing names from the voting lists of local communities. It was written in reply to a letter from the National Assembly which outlined a general problem arising recently in a few localities and requested the Guardian’s advice. Shoghi Effendi’s reply gives each Local Spiritual Assembly the true standard to observe both in admitting new voting believers and in acting to take the voting right away from any believer for due cause. Hitherto the National Spiritual Assembly has held the attitude that it was within the jurisdiction of a Local Assembly to remove a name from the voting list, after which any believer so affected might appeal to the National Assembly for reconsideration of the case. In this letter the Guardian indicates that the matter should be given the most serious consideration and preferably be referred to the National Assembly for further consideration and final decision. This statement makes it advisable for a Local Assembly, before taking final action against any believer, to place the circumstances before the National Assembly and seek its view.

It is becoming increasingly clear that a great measure of responsibility lies upon each Local Spiritual Assembly, and in fact upon every believer, to become deeply conscious of the Guardian’s general instructions concerning the form as well as the spirit of the Cause. As the Master wrote in a Tablet, “As conditions change, new instructions will be sent.” The Guardian has for many years been preparing us all for service in a Cause destined to pass through many tremendous experiences before its mission can be fulfilled.

This observation is confirmed by the most recent communication from Shoghi Effendi—a general letter addressed to all American believers and dated April 21, 1933. In this letter the Guardian unveils the rôle of the American believers in the future of the Cause. Copies are being published as rapidly as possible, in pamphlet form like that in which the “World Order” letters have been issued, so that Delegates and other believers may have this inspiring message before the opening of the Convention.

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE TEMPLE TRUSTEES 1932-1933[edit]

The believers throughout America will recall the urgent supplication contained in the Guardian’s letter, presented at the 24th Annual Convention, for the completion of the Temple dome ornamentation by the opening of the Chicago Exposition — Century of Progress. With this supplication still ringing in their ears, your Trustees at their first meeting gave immediate consideration to the formulation of a definite plan whereby work might be started as soon as practicable on this monumental task.

Your Chairman was requested to investigate the whole situation and to present a plan whereby the contract might be entered into and the work commenced although funds for the construction of the dome ornamentation, amounting to about $150,000, were not then available and might not

[Page 5] be made available for a period of several months.

A thorough study of the whole situation was made and conferences held in Washington with Mr. John J. Earley, who had been studying this whole project over a period of 12 years and whose special process of architectural concrete had been recommended favorably to the Temple Trustees by The Research Service in a special report in 1930. This process was also preferred by Mr. Louis Bourgeois.

As a result of this investigation, the Temple Trustees took action at their meeting early in June and entered into a contract with Mr. John J. Harley as of June 6, 1932 for the construction of the ornamentation of the Temple dome and on the basis that work should be started within ten days and should proceed on the basis of authorizations which would be made by the Trustees as funds became available. The first authorization was made as of June 6, 1932, in the amount of $10,000 and Mr. Earley and his associates began work within a week of this time. The work has proceeded with all possible expedition as additional funds have become available and authorized to the contractor as follows:

Authorization

No. 2 Aug. 25, 1932 $3,000
“ 3 Oct. 1, 1932 2,000
“ 4 Dec. 2, 1932 500
“ 5 Dec. 39, 1932 3,000
“ 6 Jan. 30, 1933 5,000
“ 7 Feb. 15, 1933 3,500
“ 8 March 27, 1933 6,000
“ 9 April 29, 1933 13,000


making a total of $46,000 appropriated as of April 30, 1933. Of this amount the total construction expenses, contractor’s service fee and engineering fees as of the same date amount to $38,258.47. It should be noted that the construction work has proceeded as fast as funds have been made available, and the Trustees at each of its monthly meetings have appropriated every cent they could spare from required maintenance and operation expenses of the Cause to the Temple construction fund. The various Committees have cooperated in cutting down their budgets to a minimum. For example, the National Teaching Committee has spent only $600.00 for its activities during the past year and other Committees have functioned without any expenditures.

In each issue of BAHÁ’Í NEWS, the National Spiritual Assembly has made an urgent appeal for the greatest sacrifices and the fullest cooperation on the part of the believers throughout America in order that funds in


TEMPLE CONSTRUCTION PHOTOGRAPH ::(New Series) No. 8

Sectional units on framework at Earley plant.


increasing amounts might become available so that the work might be expedited with a view of carrying out our Guardian’s wishes. The Guardian’s appeals have been published in BAHÁ’Í NEWS and have been presented to the spiritual communities from time to time at our Unity Feasts. As the result of an inspiring appeal received from our Guardian under date of March 7, 1933, the National Assembly sent out a telegram transmitting this appeal to all of the assemblies in America and urging their immediate cooperation toward the raising of the balance of $100,000 so that The Research Service and Mr. Earley might plan construction operations ahead with a view of carrying on the work toward its completion as early in the year as practicable. This appeal was followed up by visits to groups of assemblies by Mr. Philip Sprague and by weekly Temple meetings held universally throughout the United States and Canada. The results of this supreme appeal have been encouraging but we are still far short of our objective.

It has been necessary for The Research Service, your managing and supervising engineers, to arrange weeks ahead for the various phases of this unique and remarkable construction project. During the fall and winter of 1932 several months were spent in a search for suitable deposits of quartz to serve as the radiant white aggregate for the concrete ornamentation and for suitable structural materials to be used in the framework to support the dome ornamentation. No effort has been spared to secure the best possible materials available in the fields of science and industry. Your Temple Trustees have set up the highest standards of materials and workmanship with a view of producing a structure that will be not only beautiful in accordance with the design, but permanent and enduring through the ages. The project has been a pioneer one in every sense of the word and has involved the use of new methods, processes and materials.

It has been necessary for The Research Service to assume responsibility for ordering ahead various materials, including the quartz, the fittings for the concrete sections, and the structural framework. Although funds were not available and authorization made to the contractor, your engineering representatives have assumed this responsibility in order that the work might not be delayed and these materials available when required. These actions have been taken with the knowledge of and subsequently confirmed by the approval of the Temple Trustees.

As this report is being written, May 1, 1933, the casting of the sections is being started at the Virginia plant. Steps are being taken to initiate within the week the beginning of the casting of the clerestory sections of the nine ribs of the dome. The Trustees are making every effort to have one or more of these sections of the great ribs and some sections of the field of the dome available for your inspection during the 25th Annual Convention.

During the year, in the maintenance and operation of the Temple structure, a number of minor improvements and repairs have been made especially in connection with the mechanical equipment. Due to the incomplete status of the building, it has been necessary to check up on the various parts of the building in order to make the dome window spaces and floors waterproof and storm tight. Much of this ‎ maintenance‎ work has been done without any expense to the Temple operation fund as the sub-contracts were accompanied with five—year guarantees, which provide for the repair of any leaks or defects over this period of years. We are happy to mention the

[Page 6] tireless and devoted efforts of the caretaker, Mr. Edward D. Struven. The report of the operation cost during the past year indicates a considerable saving over our original estimate.

Let us unitedly supplicate that individually and collectively we may rise to the supreme task of true obedience and sacrifice in making available the necessary resources for the earliest possible completion of the dome ornamentation. As our beloved Guardian points out, in his many appeals to the believers in America, this is our day of spiritual opportunity and responsibility. Let us unite and arise, ere it is too late, to do His Will.

Respectfully submitted,
TEMPLE TRUSTEES,
ALLEN MCDANIEL, Chairman.

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE GREEN ACRE TRUSTEES 1932-1933[edit]

The Green Acre season of 1932 was unique in the initial step toward the development of a teaching and training center for the believers of the Cause under the direct supervision of a faculty appointed by the National Spiritual Assembly. Emphasis was placed on the conduct of classes that required outside preparation, and cooperation in real study.

Classes were held in the New World Order, Bahá’í Economics, Psychological Principles, the Foundations of Religious Belief, the Dawn Breakers. These classes were held at the Fellowship House and were attended by enthusiastic and appreciative groups of believers. Dr. Glenn L. Shook, Dr. Genevieve L. Coy, Mrs. Elizabeth Greenleaf and others gave generously of their time and efforts in the conduct and supervision of the class work.

Mrs. Flora Valentine operated the Inn, cottages and Tea House during the season under unfavorable conditions. During the early part of the season the number of believers living at the Inn were small and even with the strictest economy and greatest care the operation of the Inn involved a deficit of about $500 at the close of the season. This deficit sustained by Mrs. Valentine was shared by the Green Acre Trustees.

At the meeting of the Trustees at Green Acre in August, 1932, arrangements were made with the caretaker, Mr. Burt Hagadorn, for his employment in the future on the basis of 7½ months’ full time service and the remainder of the year on a part time service involving only the general supervision of the Green Acre properties. Since last fall, Mr. Hagadorn, under the general supervision of the Properties Committee, has made a number of repairs and improvements, including a new roof for the Tea House, repair of the roof of the Fellowship House, grading of the road to the Inn, etc.

During the spring of 1933, the Green Acre Committees have given considerable study to the formulation of a plan whereby the Green Acre season of this year might be carried on, without any expense to the National Assembly outside of the overhead expenses, including taxes, insurance and caretaker’s salary. At a meeting of the Green Acre Trustees on March 26, the plan submitted by the Properties Committee was approved. This plan contemplates the concentration of all living and teaching activities during the season of 1933 at the Inn and cottages. The Fellowship House will be closed and the Tea House will be continued as a home and teaching center for Mrs. Elizabeth Greenleaf and headquarters for the National Spiritual Assembly. Mrs. Guthrie will have charge of the maintenance and operation of the Inn and cottages and be assisted by Mrs. Dorothy Cress. Mrs. Guthrie has offered to cooperate with the Green Acre Committees in the operation of the Inn and cottages as inexpensively as possible and with a view of providing living facilities at a minimum of cost to the believers.

As referred to in the report of the Legal Committee, the settlement of the Sarah J. Farmer Estate has been finally effected.

The survey and platting of the five separate parcels of the Green Acre properties has been completed and the official plats of these properties are now recorded with the Register of Deeds at Alfred, Maine.

Respectfully submitted,
GREEN ACRE TRUSTEES,
ALLEN MCDANIEL,
Chairman

COMMITTEE REPORTS[edit]

Teaching Committee[edit]

Teaching the Cause of God and conveying the message of the dawn of universal peace is in a most unique position due to a remarkable combination of circumstances.

The crumbling of social institutions, the intensification of the depression with its attendant divisional activities, together with the deepening realization of the inadequacy of established religions to respond to the needs of humanity in travail, have caused an ever increasing number of people to search for a new approach to God and a new way of living.

The steady progress of the work of the ornamentation of the dome of the Bahá’í Temple in Chicago, at a time when practically all great enterprises of this nature are being abandoned, has brought the small body of American Bahá’ís more noticeably to the attention of the public than ever before. This attention is resulting in close scrutiny of our attitude toward world affairs and our application of these ideals in our community life. Thus the very foundation of our teaching work is the perfect functioning of the fully integrated Bahá’í community. In “The Golden Age of the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh” Shoghi Effendi states that the direct results of the appearance of Bahá’u’lláh are the communities bearing His name and reflecting the splendors of His Coming World Order.

Since the crowning glory of Bahá’í life is teaching the Cause, the “reconstructed teaching program” was formulated to give that resplendency to individual service as well as group action. Each and every individual, with the approval and support of the Local Spiritual Assembly, was urged to undertake some definite teaching service. Each Assembly was encouraged to introduce the Cause into a new community. In order to bring about a new enthusiasm in these undertakings, as well as to elevate our teaching work generally, inter-assembly conferences were arranged.

To meet the increasing need of qualified teachers, classes were fostered for the study of such important subjects as the history of the Cause, Bahá’í Administration, the fundamental principles of religion, and world unity. Likewise the need for a definite step for the training and teaching of children as well as for stimulating the service of Bahá’í youth was outlined. These two latter functions became so important that the National Spiritual Assembly found it advisable to appoint separate committees to carry that work to fruition.

In the working out of this program most remarkable results have been achieved. Individuals who believed themselves incapable of teaching in the past have risen in response to the call and the results of their work have been most reassuring. The Spiritual Assemblies, in carrying forward their part of this program, report that this unity of effort has, produced a healthier and happier attitude on the part of all

[Page 7] the friends and is bringing us nearer to that ideal of having all as energetic and qualified workers instead of only a few good workers. The holding of inter-assembly conferences has widened the feeling of mutual confidence and fellowship and has had the further effect of elevating the entire field of Bahá’í teaching.

All of these activities have been intensified as a result of the study of Nabil’s Narrative, the translation of which was undertaken by Shoghi Effendi for the express purpose of arousing the friends to greater self-sacrifice and a more determined way of teaching.

While it is impossible to reflect spiritual service by statistical data, yet the spirit the Bahá’ís have shown in meeting their new responsibilities may to a degree be measured by a few figures of the teaching accomplishments during the past year. One hundred and fifty new believers have been brought into the Cause. As a result of their own teaching efforts with the cooperation of the Teaching Committee ten groups increased their numbers sufficiently to have become Assemblies on April 21st of this year. Through the efforts of the Spiritual Assemblies thirty-four new groups have been established.

The Teaching Committee arranged for the printing of five thousand copies of “The Goal of a New World Order,” two thousand of which have been distributed by it to important people. A generous gift of two hundred fifty copies of “Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era,” in Chinese and Russian have also been distributed.

Each Assembly reports holding weekly at least one study group and a number of fireside meetings, which indicate the efforts of the individual Bahá’ís.

To assist in furnishing study material, Mrs. Bahiyyih Lindstrom and Mrs. Doris McKay, at the request of the Teaching Committee, prepared a study guide for “The Dawn Breakers.” There is in course of preparation at the present time a study guide for the “Iqán,” a compendium of the compilation on economics, and the translation of the French footnotes in “The Dawn Breakers.”

Cooperation with isolated believers and groups is a very important duty recently assigned to the Teaching Committee by the National Assembly. This is being accomplished by means of personal visits by members, providing teachers, assisting through correspondence, the furnishing of study material, and so forth. A Secretariat has been established by the Committee to carry on this important correspondence and follow-up service.

One of the most fertile fields of expansion is in the renewed effort of isolated believers and groups to teach the Cause, and Assemblies with isolated believers in close proximity can augment their services by close cooperation with them. Each isolated believer and group is the ‎ nucleus‎ for a new Assembly.

Contacts with organizations having universal principles akin to those of the Bahá’í Cause is a very important field of service. While these have adopted as their objective service to the world of humanity, they lack “guidance” and do not have the point of view essential to the new order. Within these groups are important people who are receptive and who will become great powers in the Bahá’í Cause. To illustrate: one believer interviewed the outstanding foreign delegates to the Rotary International Convention held in Seattle last summer. All were very receptive to the Message and graciously accepted the literature presented. These contacts have been followed up and have brought most encouraging responses, particularly to “The Goal of a New World Order.”

The result of the participation of the Bahá’í youth in the World Council of Youth is indicative of the unique achievements possible through participation in conferences of a universal nature. Youth from all over the world attending this Council learned about the Bahá’í Cause. An active study group has been formed by the young people living in Pasadena who attended the Conference. Another example of the results attendant upon continuous contacts and fellowship is the course of study on living religions conducted in the Y. W. C. A. in San Francisco in which the instructor, an outstanding member of the faculty of one of the theological colleges, included the Bahá’í Cause as one of the Living Religions of the day. This same individual included one of the Bahá’í prayers in the prayer service which he conducted as part of a recent conference of the Christian Unity League, distributing to all in attendance copies of the service in which the prayer was quoted and reference given to Bahá’u’lláh and the Cause. The unique feature of this service was that all the prayers were recited in unison.

Another field of service as yet untouched is that of following up articles, addresses, comments, etc., of notable people concerning trends of thought today in line with the principles of the Bahá’í Faith; A Teaching Correspondence Committee appointed by the New York Assembly wrote to over three hundred such public characters, enclosing literature. One hundred thirty-six replies were received, of which seventy-eight were very favorable, fifty-five complimentary and three negative. So great are the results to be achieved this work is now being developed into a national teaching activity.

The responses from the public receiving copies of “The Goal of a New World Order,” have been generally so favorable that plans are now under way to publish from time to time compilations on important subjects before the public to be sent to those especially interested.

It is of interest to know that the teaching work throughout the country was achieved at very little expense to the national fund. Including the expense of issuing the five thousand copies of “The Goal of a New World Order,” and the “Study Guide to The Dawn Breakers,” the entire teaching expenditures were $600.00.

Deep appreciation is felt by all the friends and the Teaching Committee for the inimitable services, performed at great sacrifice and despite serious difficulties, by those who have risen so energetically to spread the Glad Tidings. Special tribute should be paid to those American Bahá’ís like Martha Root, Keith Ransom-Kehler, and Mr. and Mrs. Hyde Dunn, who have extended our services beyond the American continent and are actively teaching in other countries.

The captivating spirit of Bahá’u’lláh is being felt more and more by all those having contact with the Cause, and in turn it is being reflected in more active cooperation on the part of the public. Bahá’í speakers are being requested by many liberal organizations; invitations to broadcast on the movement are increasing; books and magazines carry mention of it, and newspapers are more liberal in their publicity, one paper giving space regularly to Bahá’í compilation under the heading, “The Loom of Reality.” Non-Bahá’ís refer to the Cause in radio addresses, usually favorably, sometimes unfavorably, but the important thing is that the Cause has gained prestige in the eyes of the world sufficient to merit comment.

The friends may justifiably look with satisfaction on their labors in behalf of God’s Cause and gain inspiration for future unparalleled services. While established religions have

[Page 8] retrenched in their ministrations, the Bahá’í Faith has extended its frontiers and enlarged its services; while the whole world is depressed and unhappy, the Bahá’ís are radiant and enthusiastic; while the leaders of the world are lost in bewilderment, the Bahá’ís are centered and assured; while the world is wandering hopelessly, through the invincible guidance of the Guardian the Bahá’ís are step by step establishing the “New World Order” and ushering in the Kingdom of God.

LEROY IOAS, Chairman,
BISHOP BROWN, Vice Chairman,
RUTH RANDALL BROWN, Eastern Secretary,
CHARLOTTE M. LINFOOT, Western Secretary,
ELLA G. COOPER,
DALE S. COLE,
HELEN CAMPBELL,
STANWOOD COBB,
MARY COLLISON,
ROSEMARY GILLIES,
GEORGE O. LATIMER,
MAY MAXWELL,
FLORENCE M. MORTON,
C. G. NORDQUIST,
SARAH WALRATH,
N. FORSYTH WARD.

Eastern Division of Teaching Committee[edit]

Personnel[edit]

The National Spiritual Assembly appointed the following personnel to be responsible for Bahá’í teaching work in the eastern part of the country during the past year:

Executive Committee: Bishop Brown, Ruth Brown, Dale Cole.

Regional Members: Mrs. Florence Morton, Mrs. May Maxwell, Miss Rosemary Gillies, Mrs. Mary Collison, Miss Helen Campbell, Mrs. Sarah Walrath, Mr. Stanwood Cobb.

Teaching Program[edit]

The teaching program was agreed upon by the executive committees of. both the eastern and western division in joint consultation directly after the Convention. It was based on past experience and suggestions which were made during the Convention. In formulating the steps to be included in the teaching program the committee tried to set up objectives which would be practical and within reach.

The objectives of the teaching program were as follows:

  1. Each Local Spiritual Assembly to be responsible for the establishment of a new Spiritual Assembly within the year.
  2. The encouragement of every believer by the Local Spiritual Assemblies to take active part in the teaching work of the Community.
  3. The establishment of children’s classes in all Communities.
  4. Inter-assembly and inter-group teaching by circuit teachers.
  5. Active classes for the instruction of Bahá’í teachers.
  6. The coordination of the Summer Schools and the teaching classes.
Methods Used to Coordinate Teaching Program[edit]

The purpose of the teaching program was to have each Local Assembly work toward the same end, realizing, of course, that the accomplishment would vary according to the membership and conditions existing in each Community. The function of the executive committee has been that of making suggestions, initiating new methods and compiling teaching information for Local Assemblies and the National Spiritual Assembly. At the request of the National Spiritual Assembly and the chairman of the National Teaching Committee the executive committee presented the teaching program at the Louhelen and Green Acre Summer Schools. The function of the regional members has been to make frequent and direct contacts with Local Assemblies, groups, and isolated believers within their districts, to distribute information, and to render any assistance which they could give.

In order to answer questions immediately and to have each Local Assembly start its program quickly a series of teaching bulletins were sent out by the executive committee at the beginning of the year. The bulletins not only suggested methods which might be used in starting the teaching program but also formed the basis of monthly reports which each Local Assembly and regional member made. A digest of this information was forwarded regularly to the National Spiritual Assembly in order that that body might keep in touch with teaching activities throughout the eastern part of the country. Later in the year it was decided in consultation with the National Spiritual Assembly that the BAHÁ’Í NEWS should be the medium for distributing teaching information. To this end both the National Spiritual Assembly and the National Teaching Committee printed statements about policies and accomplishments.

The logic of such an organization is quite apparent and fits into the administrative function of the teaching work as Shoghi Effendi has described:

“... As it has been observed already, the roll of these committees set up by the National Spiritual Assembly, the renewal, the membership and functions of which should be reconsidered separately each year by the incoming National Assembly, is chiefly to make thorough and expert study of the issue entrusted to their charge, advise by their reports, and assist in the execution of the decision which in vital matters are to be exclusively and directly rendered by the National Assembly.”*

How effectively the committee has worked can best be judged, first, by what has been accomplished, second, by the criticism of the Local Assemblies and, third, by the comments which the committee itself submits as it reviews its work for the past nine months. This evaluation will be submitted in separate sections of this report.

Accomplishment[edit]

Contrary to the method followed on other occasions the teaching work for the past year was outlined with the expectancy that it would be undertaken for the most part by each Assembly. It was understood that little or no help in the way of outside teachers could be given. In order to obtain data which would sum up what has been done the following questions were asked to which each Assembly** made reply:

Was the teaching program used?
Was it helpful?
Was a new Spiritual Assembly formed?
Have any groups been formed?
Did individual believers become more active in teaching?
Have you a children’s class or was one established?
How many Inter—assembly meetings were held?
How many new believers were admitted?
Give meetings held each month.
Name new centers where your Community has presented the Cause this year.
Have you classes in Bahá’í teachers?
What are your suggestions about the teaching program?
What are your criticisms?


Was the Teaching Program Used?

The number of Assemblies reporting were 32. Twenty-four reported the teaching program was used and 8 indicated that it had not been used. In several instances it was stated that the program was used in part or as a basis for teaching work. Most of the

[Page 9] summer was taken up getting Assemblies to understand the contents of the program and how it should be used.


Was It Helpful?

Twenty—three Assemblies found the program helpful. In many cases it was found inspiring, suggestive and concise. In such cases the purpose of the teaching program was fulfilled as it was designed to be a guide and an incentive. In some cases very much the same work was already in progress as the program outlined.


Was a New Spiritual Assembly Formed?

No new Local Assemblies were formed this year. The National Teaching Committee did not expect that any overdue expansion would take place. Spiritual development does not occur, automatically. Constant search is necessary to find those who are ready for the Message and then careful preparation must follow to prevent misunderstandings about the principles for which the Cause stands. The creation of new Local Spiritual Assemblies is a long time and never ending process. As a part of the teaching program it should always have its place.


Have Any Groups Been Formed?

Sixteen Assemblies reported that groups have been formed this year. It is to be hoped that close contacts will continue to be maintained in order that these groups may develop into Assemblies by another year. In addition to groups which were formed this year older groups have been accumulating numbers until they are about to become Assemblies. Some of the larger are as follows: Toronto (Canada), Hartford (Conn.), Hinsdale (N. H.), Geneva, Johnstown, Rochester and Buffalo ,(N. Y.), New Castle (Pa.), Jacksonville (Fla.), Lima, Toledo, and Dayton (Ohio), Indianapolis (Ind.) Rockford (Ill.), Portland (Me.)


Did Individual Believers Become More Active in Teaching?

In almost every case it was reported that individual believers took more active part in teaching than ever before and in some cases believers who never felt they could teach have rendered invaluable service in spreading the knowledge of the Cause. Individual activity of this kind has resulted in visits to many cities and the formation of groups. The New England and Ohio regions report much progress of this nature.

Perhaps of all the factors to be considered individual activity is the most encouraging sign. When Communities can show a united front and when everyone is actually taking part then and only then can we expect to show growth.


Have You a Children’s Class Or Was One Established?

The Assemblies which indicated children’s classes or classes in the making numbered 14. Out of a total of 33 Assemblies it can be seen that care is being taken to train the younger generation. No ‎ reference‎ can be made in this report to the work among the youth groups, but it is to be hoped that another year will not find this part of the teaching work unorganized. It is obvious that from children’s classes there should be some stepping stone to adult association.


How many Inter—assembly Meetings Have Been Held?

Almost every Assembly reported one or more inter-assembly meeting. The value of these meetings cannot be over estimated. In some instances where none took place the Assembly was too remote to make a contact. In other cases as many as five and six inter-assembly meetings were held. This form of meeting is greatly emphasized in the west where climatic conditions are much in favor for those participating. However, in the future we should have many more of these meetings during the summer months than in other years when we have been inclined to excuse ourselves with the thought that “so many people are away.”

Inter-assembly meetings should include sociability and a general good time to which newly attracted people or strangers are invited. Aside from the spiritual note which is struck briefly and sweetly the Bahá’ís should show at this time “a way of living” in its fullest meaning which will be most attractive to invited guests. Such meetings are confirming to Bahá’ís themselves. They are a relief from the routine of fall and winter meetings in homes and halls. Let us have more of these meetings and give more thought to the advantages of closer intermingling of Bahá’í Communities.

The most notable inter—assembly activity in the east has taken place in the Metropolitan New York region where six meetings have been held with surrounding Communities.


How Many New Believers Were Admitted?

The number of new believers which have been taken into Communities during the past year reported to be 105. No comment need be made on this information other than that the teaching committee is delighted with the growth that seems to be taking place in every Community. The addition of new believers is not a business. There is no need for comparative figures with those of a previous year. The important factor is whether or not we are showing our love for the Cause in an active way which is attracting those who are anxious to join with us in the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh.


Name New Centers Where Your Community Has Presented The Cause This ‎ Year‎.

The members of some Communities have been more active than others in giving the Message in new places. This was due partly to their inability to move about more readily. However, here again we should not lose sight of a contribution that every believer can make. The bounty which comes from being the first to herald this Revelation in a new center is marked by that inspiration and enthusiasm for which the early believers were so noted. In some cases members of Communities have given the Message in eight or nine new places.


Give Meetings Held Each Month.

The number and variety of meetings that are held in each Community illustrates the different ways we have of working toward the same end. A summary of meetings will illustrate this point.

Local Spiritual Assembly Meetings—Weekly, monthly and bi-monthly.
Public Meetings — Monthly and weekly.
Feasts—Every nineteen days.
Anniversaries.
Training Class for teachers—Weekly.
Young people’s meeting—Weekly.
Children’s Class—Sunday.
Study Class for “The Dawn Breakers”—Weekly, twice a week or bimonthly.
Prayer and Meditation Class—Weekly.
Economy dinners—Weekly.
Teaching Committee meetings—Bimonthly.
Fireside groups—Continuous.
Administration Study Class—Weekly.
Tea Talks—Weekly.
Esperanto Class—Weekly.
Noonday prayer—Daily.
Amity meeting—Every other month.

_______
* Bahá’í Administration, page 131.
** At the time this report was prepared no reports have been received from Baltimore, Philadelphia, and Washington.

[Page 10] Many Communities reported classes in the study of Nabil’s soul stirring narrative. In Montreal the program for public meetings was based upon this early history of the Cause and an entirely new field of work has developed. Such subjects as, Persia in the Nineteenth Century, The Episode of the Báb, The Red Annals of the Bahá’í Faith, and Banished, Persecuted and Imprisoned, were used.

This method was followed throughout the season and the report of these meetings reads, “The results of these series of meetings both in attendance, in the interest of the audience and publicity obtained far surpassed our hopes.”

The Racine Assembly has used as a silent teacher a model of the Temple made by one of the believers. Placed in the window of a downtown store where the meetings are held it has been a source of great interest.

The New York Assembly sponsored a series of addresses by Dr. Ali Kuli Khan which were given in a well known hotel. These meetings attracted from three to four hundred and will be followed by a study class.

The Cleveland Assembly started the fall season with a class for Bahá’í teachers. The course which was outlined in advance required three hours of reading and study.

The Chicago Assembly reports an Amity meeting every second month. This type of meeting is noticeably missing from all reports.


Criticisms of Teaching Plan.

That there would be criticism of the teaching program and the methods used to administer it was to be expected. In no instance, however, has an unfriendly attitude been shown. The criticisms which have been received are printed in full. They should serve as a guide for the next teaching committee to follow.

“In the beginning a little technical but steadily it has broadened to meet the needs of the friends everywhere. It has widened the scope of activities, increased activity and efficiency of the friends and developed a more orderly system.”

“It assumes ideal conditions which have to be modified to a large extent in practice. It is infinitely better than no program.”

“We feel that one member of the teaching committee as regional member should not be given so much responsibility, especially where so many Assemblies are concerned. In recent reports in the News Letter only reference to activities in the West have been made although we know that reports have been sent in from the most active centers in the East.”


What Are Your Suggestions For The Teaching Program.

An equal space should be allowed for comments and suggestions. They express constructive thought which is always deeply appreciated.

“To make more use of the Bahá’í News as a medium of distributing information as to how different Assemblies handle hard problems, and how teaching is progressing and who the most active believers are all over the country, as this will be especially helpful to delegates, to choose wisely the members of the National Spiritual Assembly, and assist different program committees in getting speakers. To reduce numbers of people who as individuals go over our reports (but to have a committee to handle our reports). We recommend that the regional member should be either chairman or one member of an Inter-assembly committee made up of one member from each Community elected by that Community or appointed by his Assembly. In other words there should be more consultation and less responsibility and work falling on the shoulders of one person. As publicity is a teaching method more use of it should be stressed in the National Teaching Program.”

“We suggest more detailed study of conditions in each individual Community. We suggest more inter—assembly meetings with due consideration of transportation costs. We suggest more frequent personnel contacts with the regional representative.”

“I suggest that we re-appoint the same chairmen and secretaries both east and west giving them an opportunity to further unfold their vision and develop their plans. That a Youth Group be developed in the Cause—united, active, inter-communicating according to the explicit wishes of the Guardian.”

“Urge Assemblies use speakers from nearby Assemblies.”

“Emphasize contacts and meetings With individuals of various nationalities. Emphasize study of economic and social ‎ problems‎. Contact with experts on those subjects.”

“We suggest efforts be made to open a radio station in each region where the Cause can be presented. By opening a station we mean a wise plan to secure the use of some already established broadcasting station for our speakers, on universal subjects and aspects of the Cause.”

“Have a teaching program issued every three months.”

Conclusion[edit]

In conclusion the teaching Committee would like to point to some of the outstanding accomplishments of the year.

First, the efforts which individual teachers in every Community have made at their own expense has been most gratifying. Now that we know how much can be accomplished by individual effort the work should never cease.

Second, the formation of groups resulting from Orcella Rexford’s classes have added many interested people throughout the east. Portland, Boston, Washington, South Bend and Cincinnati are some of the centers where Miss Rexford has given lectures and left study groups. These groups have been nurtured by teachers who have given unstintedly of their time and energy.

Third, the preparation of the Study Guide for “The Dawn Breakers” by Doris McKay and Bahiyyih Lindstrom was a valuable contribution to teaching. It is being used by many Communities, groups and individual believers as a method of furthering their understanding of the early days of the Cause.

Fourth, the marvelous spirit of cooperation which each Community has shown in working with the National Teaching Committee to carry out the program has been a source of inspiration. If this unity can continue there is every reason to believe that the Cause will develop with increasing speed.

Fifth, the reprinting and distribution of “The Goal of a New World Order” was a means for each Assembly to contact prominent people in its own locality.

Sixth, the success which the New York Assembly reported in writing speakers and prominent people, whose names appeared in the daily papers, about the Cause is an effort which may be of National teaching importance.

For the coming year the attention of the National Teaching Committee could be given to the following policies with advantage.

Close cooperation with Summer Schools.
Further assistance in study of Bahá’í literature.
Special attention to the development of groups.
Regular contacts with isolated believers.
Preparation of a reading list on subjects which are associated with Ba

[Page 11]

há’í teachings.
Free Literature.
A wider use of circuit teachers.
Respectfully submitted by the executive committee of the Eastern Division,
BISHOP BROWN
RUTH BROWN
DALE S. COLE

Archives Committee[edit]

The Secretary of the Archives Committee, Miss Gertrude Buikema, has asked me to report for the Committee.

The gathering of Original Tablets—revealed by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá during His Ministry of nearly thirty years—for preservation in the Bahá’í Archives, contributed throughout the past season of 1932-1933, especially through the splendid work under the direction of Mrs. Corinne True. These precious Tablets, after being catalogued, have been placed in the vault for preservation, and are the outstanding contribution to the Bahá’í Archives during the past year. This time-lock storage vault is one of the finest in Chicago.

Also many Original Letters from our beloved Guardian, Shoghi Effendi have been sent in and placed in the same vault.

The Committee is deeply grateful to those who have responded to their call, and would remind those who have not sent in their Tablets for preservation, of the danger—in these days of stress and uncertainty—of the loss of these precious documents to this and coming generations.

Respectfuly submitted, ALBERT R. WINDUST, Custodian.

Publishing Committee[edit]

The Publishing Committee wishes to submit the following report, showing its activities during the past year:

New Publications[edit]

The Golden Age of the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh. The Committee was authorized to print 2500 copies ... 2209 copies were distributed to local Assemblies and to special list of names supplied by the N. S. A.

This second letter addressed to the Bahá’í World by the Guardian, prepares the followers of Bahá’u’lláh for their great task, and reminds them of their privileged responsibility toward humanity in making known this divine plan which alone can heal a distressed and suffering world, and lay the foundation of the establishment of the “Golden Age” of a new civilization.

Study Guide for The Dawn Breakers. 300 copies were printed in Dec., 1932. Price 25c each. This guide has been an invaluable help to all those studying the early days of the Cause in reading Nabil’s incomparable narrative.

Bahá’í World, Vol. IV. Competitive bids were obtained from several printing houses. Estimate from J. J. Little & Ives Co., was accepted for printing 2500 copies, as terms of payment could be made to cover a period of twelve months.

This volume was prepared for press by the Chairman, Mr. Horace Holley, and is in work at the present date, and is expected to be off the press in time for the annual Convention. The new volume contains many more pages than Vol. 3, is rich in illustrations and it is hoped that all believers will purchase a copy in order to study it and know the international aspects of the Cause. Price, $2.50 per copy.

Revised Glossary for Kitab-i-Iqan. 1000 copies of the revised glossary were printed and mention made in the News Letter that these were available gratis to all who had purchased this book. Copies were inserted in all unsold copies.

Declaration Of Trust and National and Local By-Laws: We printed 1000 copies of this pamphlet to sell at 10c each and made mention in the News Letter urging librarians to order a supply that all believers may acquaint themselves as to the details of our administrative principles.

Bahá’í Administration: A new edition of this title has been printed. It contains all the letters from the Guardian received to date, including 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. The price of this new edition is $2.00.

Tablet of Bahá’u’lláh to the Greatest Holy Leaf: In February we received from the Guardian two prints of this Tablet (the best and most significant of her Tablets) also a photographic plate from which he asked us to have a copper plate made similar in size to the Twenty Tablets to the Letters of the Living and to Bahá’u’lláh in the Dawn-Breakers, about twenty copies to be made on good paper and sent to Haifa to be hand illumined. The negative was shattered in transit but the engravers were able to make a good plate from the print and thirty copies were sent to Haifa. A letter from the Guardian acknowledging their safe arrival expresses satisfaction with the result. The Guardian will present these Tablets to each National Assembly for their Archives.

Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to the Greatest Holy Leaf: The Guardian has sent these additional Tablets with a photograph of the Greatest Holy Leaf and has asked the National Spiritual Assembly to have a pamphlet made using the photograph as a frontispiece. These pamphlets are to be distributed to the believers of the United States and Canada and Europe by the National Spiritual Assembly. The work is now in process.

Reprints[edit]

What Is the Bahá’í Movement? 50,000 copies of this leaflet were printed.

Goal of a New World Order. 5000 copies printed in this new edition. This was financed by the Western Division of the Teaching Committee. 1000 copies were sent to each of the Teaching Divisions. 3000 copies to be handled and sold by the Publishing Company. In packages of ten, to be sold for 50c.

Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era. 5000 copies of this new edition printed. Competitive estimates obtained from three printing houses. Estimate accepted from Kingsport Press, who hold plates and who have printed all previous editions, and whose relations with J. J. Little and Ives Co., makes it possible to ship stock to this firm who handle our stock and shipping.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá and Divine Philosophy.

This valuable teaching book has been out of stock for some time. At the request of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá the notes on Divine Philosophy were compiled by Mrs. Soraya Chamberlain, who published the original edition in 1918.

Mrs. Chamberlain has recently had a new edition printed in San Francisco.

The Publishing Committee has purchased 500 copies and is ready to fill orders. Price 75c.

Hidden Words, paper binding: In April, 1932, we received 1000 copies of this title, having ordered them from the London, England Assembly (they were printed as part of a larger order), thus carrying out the instructions of the Guardian, that we co-operate with England whenever possible.

Bahá’í, Spirit of the Age: In December, 1932, we had the 283 sheets of this title which we purchased from Brentano’s, bound. This is one of the titles which we are giving to our local Assemblies that they may present them to their Public or University libraries.

[Page 12]

Translations[edit]

Chinese

Bahá’u’lláh and The New Era. 400 copies were shipped to us from Shanghai when the city was in danger of destruction, in order to save them. These books are to be used by the Teaching Committee for free distribution, in their teaching work.

Swedish

Bahá’u’lláh and The New Era. 50 copies were ordered through Mrs. Erickson, a New York believer, who assisted Mrs. Rudd in Sweden in the financing of this translation. It was understood that the Publishing Company would pay for these books as sold.

Russian

Kitab-i-Iqan. 100 copies of unbound sheets shipped to us from London by Mr. Asgarzadeh. Expense for landing. Custom duty, $40.00; Clearance charge, $17.89. This expense was assumed by the N. S. A. 200 copies of Bahá’u’lláh and New Era received last year. These two books are also to be used by the Teaching Committee.

Braille

Bahá’u’lláh and The New Era. This special work prepared for the blind was undertaken and financed by Mrs. Nellie French. The set of plates are stored at our stock room in New York. Orders can be filled by the Publishing Company.

In July the N. S. A. requested the Publishing Company to undertake the work of printing and distributing the Teaching Outlines. This work has heretofore been handled by the Outline Committee. They will in the future concentrate on compiling and preparing this teaching material.

Exchange of Literature with China[edit]

The N. S. A. has authorized the Publishing Company to exchange English Bahá’í books to the amount of $50.00 for Chinese books. This was done in compliance with a request from the Shanghai Assembly stating the great need for our literature among the English colonies. Many opportunities for giving the teachings have been lost from not having books. They offered to send the equivalent in Chinese books, hoping that with this cooperation they might be used among the Chinese colonies in this country. All Chinese books are to be used by the Teaching Committee, and distributed free. The expenses connected with this transaction are to be charged to the Teaching budget, coming under the head of teaching work.

In order that every believer will be informed regarding the financing of The Dawn Breakers the following is a report up to date, of March 31st:

Printed De Luxe 150 copies
Standard 2000 “
Cost to date:
Cuts (illustrations)
$1572.31
Paper, printing and binding. Standard, 2000
Paper, print. De Luxe, 150
7888.80
Binding   “   “  
1716.50
Cases   “   “  
618.75
Mailing cartons “   “  
28.05
Postage
419.82
20% of sales to Pub. Com.
1824.68
Editorial work
310.
Art work, frontispiece
110.
Photostat copies for Reviewing Committee
285.
Selling expenses (circulars, etc.)
172.46
Sundry expenses
19.78
Paid to date
  $14,966.15
*  13,897.23
____________
Balance due (Kingsport Press)
    $1068.92
Copies sold and distributed to date:
Standard, 1067; De Luxe, 100
9123.42
Interest earned
56.21
Loans N. S. A., $5831.00; Less paid, 1113.40
4717.60
____________
*  13,897.23
Unsold copies on hand
Standard, 933 copies, at $7.50
6997.50
De Luxe 50 copies at $35.00
1750.00
___________
$ 8747.50
Less postage
Estimated, $335.00; 20% to Pub. Com., $1749.50
2084.50
___________
$ 6663.00

If Standard and De Luxe editions on hand are sold at regular price.

Accounts payable
Kingsport Press Bal
1068.92
N. S. A. loans
4717.60
___________
$ 5786.52
Bal. due on copies sold on consignment
1020.33
___________
$ 4766.33
Library Division of Publishing Committee[edit]

The N. S. A. in appointing new ‎ committees‎ this year combined the Library with the Publishing. In order to insure the most efficient work, a Library Division was formed, and Miss Martha Woodsum appointed as Chairman. The following report is most encouraging and shows what has been done during her short term of office. Miss Woodsum took up the work in September, 1932.

Library Division Report[edit]

Circular form letter sent out to all Local Assemblies asking for their cooperation in creating a demand for Bahá’í books in Public Libraries, and University Libraries. Asking for report of heading given Bahá’í literature when listed. Where Bahá’í books are listed under various headings, requesting Assemblies to interview Librarian and endeavor to have classification made under proper heading of authorized Bahá’í literature.

The following books have been supplied to the Library Division for gift copies to Public Libraries:

Bahá’í World, Vols. II and III.

Book of Assurance (old edition of Kitab-I-Iqan). Bahá’í Spirit of the Age. Bahá’í Revelation.

[Page 13] Assemblies were notified that these books would be supplied to them for donations to their Public Library.

New York Public Library purchased 13 titles for catalogues. Boston Library sent word that they had a call for the Kitab-i-Iqan and asked if Library Division could donate this book. The Book of Assurance was sent them as a gift, explaining that this was an earlier translation of the same title.

The following Assemblies have donated The Dawn Breakers to Public Libraries: Evanston, Ill.; Columbus, Ohio; Binghamton, N. Y.; New York City.

The Binghamton Assembly reported that Bahá’í books were being read at Public Library, and that The Dawn Breakers was in demand. Of the twelve books at Library only two left on shelf.

In December the Library Division received $50.00 from the N. S. A. to defray expenses. Disbursements will be shown in financial statement of Publishing Committee.

Respectfully submitted
MARTHA WOODSUM,
Chairman Library Division.


Among the Reviews of The Dawn Breakers brought to our attention: Journal of Royal Central Asia Part II, Oct, 1932; Moslem World, Oct., 1932; Christian Union Quarterly, Oct., 1932‎ ;‎ Honolulu Advertiser, Jan., 1933.

Mrs. Mansfield Ferry was appointed a member of the Publishing Committee in September, 1932, and Mrs. Loulie A. Mathews was re-appointed.

Suggestions for Future Growth[edit]

As the Cause is growing throughout this vast country and the demand for books to be shipped to different points of this country as well as throughout the world is increasing rapidly, the time has come when we must begin to consider a more economic method, for the saving of time and expense and also to divide the labor which up to date has been handled solely by the Financial Secretary.

I would suggest that the country be divided into the Western and Eastern Division; territory being identical with the division made in the Teaching Committee.

That a distributing Center be established on the Western Coast, San Francisco. I mention this City because in my recent visits to different Assemblies, I believe this city to be the logical point. Also the present Librarian of that Assembly has had business experience as well as experience in handling the Bahá’í books. I think that she would be willing to undertake the distribution of books for the Western Division.

If this suggestion be acted upon, the amount of stock sent in first shipment for western distribution would be based on an average of six months sales, additional supply to be sent as needed, all stock to be accounted for to Publishing Committee; so that at all time a stock inventory would be available.

Advantages. Saving of time in shipping from Eastern stock room. Saving of expense to Assemblies ordering books, as bookpost is based on mileage zoning and adds considerably to the cost of books to those ordering from the west and the Hawaiian Islands.

The stock would be sent to the coast by freight.

The secretary in submitting this report wishes to inform the believers that she has been absent from New York since the first week in November, and therefore has not taken an active part in the work of the Committee. This work has been carried on with an untiring spirit of service and efficiency by the Financial Secretary, Mrs. C. R. Wood, in addition to her many duties of bookkeeping and distributing the literature. And it is with grateful acknowledgment that I inform the believers in making this report.

Respectfully submitted,
Bahá’í Publishing Committee,
MARION M. LITTLE, Secretary.

Committee on Inter-Racial Amity[edit]

In New York City three Interracial Meetings were held under the Local Committee Chairman Loulie A. Mathews, and Ludmilla Bechtold who served as acting Chairman during Mrs. Mathews’ absence.

The first public meeting took place at the Urban League Headquarters. The speakers were Dr. Alain Locke, Samuel Allen, Saffa Kinney, Philip Marangello, James H. Hubert, Arthur Schomburg, also speaking were Dr. Genevieve Coy, Ira Reid, Wanden Lafarge and Elsa Russell.

The second important meeting was held at the Bahá’í Center with James S. Watson as guest of honor. Mr. J. F. Morton, Curator of the Patterson Museum and Loulie A. Mathews Chairman of the National Interracial Committee, were the speakers.

Our Spring meeting was held also at the Bahá’í Center and we had the great pleasure of hearing President Thomas E. Jones, of Fiske University, his subject being “Character Education.” The Bahá’í Message was given by Loulie A. Mathews. The talks were followed by an informal reception and refreshments were served.

On Sunday evening February second a Musical Lecture was given by Mr. Harry Burleigh, composer and musician. This was done under the ‎ auspices‎ of the New York Interracial Committee.

The National Interracial Committee gave its annual entertainment in honor of the two organizations who work so tirelessly for the Negro Race; the “National Association for Advancement of the Colored People” and “The Urban League,” on Saturday evening, May 13th, at the New York Bahá’í Center,

A series of Motion Paintings were shown. These photographs taken in Hawaiian Islands by Mr. J. H. Rhoades render nature’s colors with absolute fidelity. Landscapes taken in sunlight, moonlight, dusk and dawn pass across the screen. Here we see rare trees and flowers in full bloom and surf of unbelievable beauty.

There was music by two distinguished amateurs, Mrs. George Eustis Corcoran at the piano and Mrs. Murdock Ward, violinist.

Oliver LaFarge told stories of Indian Life. A reception with refreshments served followed. There were more than two hundred people present.

The National Interracial Committee was assisted by the New York Local Spiritual Assembly. Loulie A. Mathews, Chairman of the National Interracial Committee and Horace Holley, Chairman of New York Spiritual Assembly, acted as co-chairmen of the evening. The Reception Committee were: Mrs. Viola Bibb, Mrs. Minta Trotman, Mrs. Ludmilla Bechtold, and Mrs. Villa Vaughan.

Detroit[edit]

During the year there were seven Interracial dinners given by a group of workers led by Mrs. Mabelle Davis of this Committee. The Committee also reports other intensive activities and meetings. These friends are earnest workers for the unity of races.

Chicago[edit]

The Chicago Assembly has had a Very active Interracial Committee. They report a large meeting and a good will dinner. The two members of the National Interracial, residents of Chicago, Dr. Zia Bagdadi and Mrs.

[Page 14] Shelley Parker, have been able to do very constructive work in cooperation with the Local Spiritual Assembly.

Los Angeles[edit]

In Los Angeles a large meeting was arranged by the member of Interracial National Committee a resident of this city; Mrs. Sarah Witt, for the National Chairman Loulie A. Mathews.

There were representatives of many races; Chinese, Japanese, American Indian and Negro. Each nation was represented by a speaker and also there was music of the nations represented. Supper was served after the talks.

Later in the year an Amity meeting was arranged by this Committee. The speakers were: Mr. LeRoy Ioas, Rev. Shelton Sheppard, Mrs. Margaret Campbell, Gonra Nakamura, a distinguished Japanese, Standing Bear, an Indian Chief, and Willard Hatch. They addressed a splendid audience.

In November the National Chairman, Loulie A. Mathews, visited California. She spoke in the Church Universal, at the McKinley High School in Pasadena, at a meeting of the National Association for the Improvement of Colored People in Oakland, at the Geographical Society at Palm Springs and at the Bahá’í Center in Santa Barbara, also in the Methodist Church in Colorado Springs.

Washington, D. C.[edit]

Amity work has been carried on throughout the year in Washington by a group of devoted Bahá’í inspired by Mrs. C. F. Cook, and although we have no details of these meetings we know that this important work is being successfully done.

Upon reaching the Hawaiian Islands, many opportunities were given the Chairman to explain the plan of Bahá’u’lláh for racial harmony. Notably the Pan Pacific Club, The Representative Club, The Round Table of the Bahá’ís of Honolulu, and there were many private gatherings where the Principles could be explained and questions answered. Through the kindness of Mrs. Samuel Baldwin meetings were arranged on the Island of Maui, here Mrs. May Fanton entertained us with a feast that was truly royal.

A journey that resulted in great interracial importance was undertaken by Mr. C. A. Wragg and the Secretary, Mr. Louis Gregory. Dr. Glenn Shook had given his Color Organ to these travellers to exhibit. Thus eleven cities in Virginia were visited. The friends were eager for Bahá’í meetings and no trouble was too much to secure these evenings. A week was given to teaching in the State College of Virginia, at the Virginia Seminary and the College of Lynchburg. In Norfolk two social gatherings were specially delightful one was given by The Book Lovers Club where many prominent citizens were, and we encountered no trace of opposition or hostility, and travelling thus together for the purpose of teaching the difference of race was helpful and made a profound impression. On our arrival in Charlottesville, we found that Mrs. Louise D. Boyle had gathered together a splendid group for an Interracial meeting. One source of happiness came from meeting ‎ isolated‎ believers, one in particular had not been able to attend a Bahá’í meeting for seventeen years!

Mr. Wragg, a native of Australia was making his first visit to the South and melted all hearts by relating how loved were the Negro melodies by his native land.

On the return trip to Portsmouth, Bahá’í friends were visited in Washington, Baltimore, New York, Newark and Norton, Mass.

During these travels the head of the Interracial Commission of Virginia in describing the general unrest said. “Unless God raises up a great spiritual leader, a man of clear vision who can point the way, civilization itself is doomed.” The “Way” is the oneness of mankind, and the leader the manifestation for this day, Bahá’u’lláh. To do his work we must have unity and for this great purpose workers in the field of Interracial ideals are needed, all parts of the globe must be penetrated with these divine principles.

The Interracial Committee wishes to express sorrow for the loss of its youngest member, Mrs. Edwin Horn of Brooklyn. From the time she joined the Assembly she rendered valued service. The Bahá’í Prayers were her constant solace during her last illness and she died happy in the faith she had embraced. Mr. Horace Holley conducted the funeral services and numbers of the Bahá’í friends were present.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá has said, “You are loosed from ancient superstitions which have kept men ignorant, destroying the foundations of human solidarity.” The spirit of this utterance is reaching round the world. It is blazing a pathway of light. Both the Master and the Guardian attach great value to sincere efforts, their creative words, their noble example, must inspire us to greater trials of strength. The trials and tests that workers encounter will in the end make the fires of divine love burn more brightly. “Mount your steeds, O heroes of God.”

MRS. LOULIE A. MATHEWS, Chairman
MR. LOUIS G. GREGORY, Secretary
DR. ZIA M. BAGDADI
MRS. SARA E. WITT
MRS. MABELLE L. DAVIS
MRS. CORALIE F. COOK
MRS. SHELLEY N. PARKER
MRS. DOROTHY RICHARDSON

Reviewing Committee[edit]

The following ‎ manuscripts‎ have been approved since the last Convention: (The manuscripts were received in the order given.)

Principles of Progress, by Mabelle L. Davis. An article stressing interracial amity.

Bahá’í Answers, by Olivia W. Kelsey. A compilation approved in principle, but not in its present form.

Economics Compilation, submitted by Nat. Economics Committee.

A Study Guide to The Dawn-breakers, by Mr. and Mrs. McKay and Bahiyyih Lindstrom.

Essay on Mysticism, by Ruhi Afnán.

Essays on the Bahá’í Revelation, by Ruhi Afnán.

Foreword for Economics Article, published in July, 1932 Star of the West, by A. E. Lunt.

Section 1 and Section 2, including the first thirteen “Lessons for Children” submitted by the Committee for the Teaching and Training of Children.

Security for a Failing World: an Introduction to the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, by Stanwood Cobb. An excellent general book on the Cause to give to unorthodox but intelligent inquirers.

Studies in Immortality, a compilation, by Mrs. J. W. Gift. Approved with certain modifications in text.

Racial Amity, by Louis G. Gregory. A general work on the Bahá’í solution of the amity question in America, the author having been for many years executive secretary of the National Amity Committee.

Recurring Cycles, by Ida A. Finch, a four-page leaflet for free distribution.

Study Outline on the Book of Certitude, submitted by the Study Outline Committee. An excellent piece of work whereby any class would have a thorough and complete understanding of this book.

Advanced Lessons, by Shanaz L. Waite. Twelve intensive lessons on

[Page 15] the inner significances of the Teachings of Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

The Reviewing Committee would like to ask the friends to submit two copies of each manuscript, one to be kept in the files of the National Assembly as a permanent record, the other to be returned to the author, and also that all manuscripts be typed double space with not too faint a ribbon.

Respectfully submitted,
BAHÁ’Í REVIEWING COMMITTEE,
By: DORIS HOLLEY, Secretary,
MARIE B. MOORE
GENEVIEVE L. COY

Bahá’í Magazine—Editorial[edit]

In considering our annual report we must always keep in mind that The Bahá’í Magazine decidedly differs from other activities in the Bahá’í Cause in that its history, as it were, is being written from month to month as the magazine is issued. Thus all friends are familiar with its character and contents, and those who have supported it have kept closely in touch with its development and progress.

It is encouraging to note that we have had high commendation from innumerable believers expressing great appreciation of The Bahá’í Magazine, referring frequently “to the finished and scholarly productions of today.” The Bahá’í Magazine continues to be called “a traveling teacher,” and judging from letters received from all parts of the world, we believe the magazine has been a great and very definite help in the teaching field: It has, as these testimonials tend to show, become a universal publication of world-wide interest.

One of the very distinct notes of progress has been the printing of articles dealing with the advancement of the Cause in countries throughout the world, thus demonstrating the universal aspects of our Faith and its far-flung activities. We feel that this is a very important and sure way of informing the world—both Bahá’í and non-Bahá’í—of the growth and power of the Movement.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá once said that this magazine “would bring about the unity of the East and the West,” and we feel that the past year has seen progress in this direction.

“I am very glad to avail myself of this opportunity to extend to you, across deserts and seas, my warmest and heartiest congratulations on the excellent work you are rendering to the Great Cause, namely, the instructive and enlightening Bahá’í Magazine. Your admirable efforts—may they be richly rewarded by the All-Bountiful as manifested in every issue of the magazine, show clearly what the Word of God can accomplish. I wish you and all those who contribute articles to this progressive magazine, a successful career.”—(Adib R. Baghdadi, Baghdad, Mesapotamia.)

We have also received many comments to the effect that the magazine is of a high order, both from a literary standpoint and its make-up or format. A person of distinction in official life in Washington, formerly an editor, said: “What a well organized and professional looking magazine the Bahá’ís are getting out.”

In articles solicited and published we have stressed the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh and how His teachings apply to the material problems of mankind and make for a better and happier world. We endeavor to assume in every article a spiritual tone as well as qualities appealing to the intellect, realizing that what will most move hearts and convince souls is the power of the Holy Spirit expressed through the pages of The Bahá’í Magazine.

A progressive step has been to have shorter articles, thereby enabling us to have a greater variety. This is a distinct gain and advance and has been well liked.

We have had several new contributors during the year, among them Hussein Rabbani, the younger brother of our Guardian. His articles have dealt with very timely subjects, and they have greatly enriched the pages of the magazine. To every contributor, however, we feel we owe a debt of gratitude for it has been through their combined and refreshing cooperation in a true Bahá’í spirit that we have been greatly encouraged, and we wish to emphasize this “true Bahá’í spirit” because we seemed like members of one family working together in harmony and unity to get out the magazine—an experience which has been spiritually thrilling and very real.

Libraries and universities have asked for the renewal of their subscriptions, notably among them Antioch College. We are continuing to send the magazine to some libraries in German universities, to the universities in China which have requested them, to many libraries in Japan, and to the libraries in the universities and colleges of this country. Public libraries throughout the country seem to be glad to get the magazine, and one library has written thus: “The first number of The Bahá’í Magazine has been placed in our Reading Room. We ‎ appreciate‎ very much indeed being introduced to his valuable reading matter which I feel sure will be widely read by the thoughtful among our people.”

We have much valuable material on hand now for publication: further “Letters Home,” by Keith Ransom-Kehler, dealing with her wonderful experiences in Persia; important and historic material from Martha Root,—material giving the history of important events never before written about and which need to be known by the friends as well as those outside of the Cause. We have also material from oriental Bahá’ís, and a number of interesting new articles by American friends dealing with timely subjects. Also we hope to secure interviews with important officials which will be recorded.

Shoghi Effendi has said of the magazine: “The Star is decidedly improving in scope, style and effectiveness ... I wish to express in person my strong sense of appreciation of your continued services in connection with The Bahá’í Magazine. It is undoubtedly improving in tone, subject matter and general presentation of the Bahá’í theme. You should feel happy and encouraged. Persevere and do not lose heart.”

One of the aspects of the work the past year which has greatly heartened the entire staff of the magazine is the fact that through these trying times of depression and the depletion of incomes, The Bahá’í Magazine has kept within the budget allowance, and has thus been able to carry on without additional financial help. We consider this quite like a miracle.

From among the many words of encouragement from subscribers we choose a few which really express the many that cannot be published for too much space would be required:

“This Bahá’í Magazine is most interesting from cover to cover. I never find a dull article in it. It meets the need of a great many people for help, for something that is different from the ordinary. I find not only information about what is going on in the world, but a spiritual uplift. In this day of unrest, of anxiety, of perturbation of every kind, there are many writers in this magazine who give us the information we need. There is a very definite path outlined. and if this pathway were followed it would settle the world problems. I note with what clarity the path is made plain for the civic life of the world. There is much I would like to say about the appearance of the magazine, too. The type is clear, it is attractive in every way, and it is not

[Page 16] only welcome but it is looked forward to every month.”

“May I express my appreciation of your wonderful magazine. It is a great exploit for a group still numerically so small to produce and maintain such a periodical.”

“The Bahá’í Magazine always brings edifying and instructive material to me. Having not many hours free for reading, I greatly appreciate these short articles so full of love and peace, and therefore contrasting greatly with many other periodicals which preach but hatred and ill-will. You have gained a humble friend of the good Cause.”

“I look upon The Bahá’í Magazine as the purest and best magazine in the world, and hope in the future to draw more and more attention to it.”

“I always receive and read The Bahá’í Magazine with great joy. I find it very good and inspiringly written, and many persons are reading it on my copy who unhappily cannot afford a personal subscription.”

“Surely the power of Bahá’u’lláh is assisting you in your great work, and you and your associates are blessed many times. The beautiful Bahá’í Magazine is a delight to all hearts.”

“Allow me to express my appreciation of The Bahá’í Magazine. We speak often in our Bahá’í Group of the magazine’s great helpfulness and inspiration. It is a great teacher.”

STANWOOD COBB
MARIAM HANEY
BERTHA HYDE KIRKPATRICK,
Editors.

Bahá’í Magazine Business Office[edit]

The operation of the Bahá’í Magazine Office during the past year has been affected, like all business concerns, by the depressed and chaotic financial conditions that have obtained throughout the world. But, unlike other such agencies, this office has received the blessings and bounties of the cooperation of the believers as far as their limited and diminishing resources would permit. The unfavorably high rate of exchange has resulted in the reduction of foreign subscriptions by about one-third. A notable exception and inspiring example of cooperation is the case of the Poona, India, Assembly, which has increased its subscriptions from four to twenty-five during the latter part of the year. Similar to last year, the Persian list has been gradually reduced and now comprises only one copy sent by first class mail.

Our detailed financial report, copies of which are being sent to the National Treasurer, show total receipts of $3,807.28 from subscription, new and renewed, single copies, bound volume and trial subscriptions, and $3,783.00 from the National Spiritual Assembly to April 30, 1933—a period of 13 months. It should be recalled that this office turned over to the National Assembly a balance of $700.00 as of March 31, 1932, which should have been carried over and applied to meet the expenses of the office this year.

The total expenses for the past 13 months were $6,973.94, and $6,419.83 for the year ending March 31, 1933, as compared with $6,533.43 for the year ending March 31, 1932—or net saving of $113.60 over the corresponding twelve months’ period.

The severe financial conditions and the concentration of our financial resources on the building of the Temple were reflected in a falling off of new subscriptions and renewal of subscriptions and the sale of bound volumes. The sale of single issues increased over the preceding year largely through the demand for copies of the Special July, 1932, issue.

A large number of letters have been received from people all over the world expressing their inability to pay their subscriptions at the time and begging us to continue sending the Magazine until such time as they can resume payments either in whole or part. This office has uniformly replied to these supplications in a loving and sympathetic way and assuring the friends of our desire to cooperate by a continuance of our relations on this basis of true consultation and cooperation. Usually in these cases, the subscribers have sent in their overdue subscriptions and always with words of appreciation.

Respectfully submitted,
MARGARET B. MCDANIEL,
Business Manager.

Publicity Committee[edit]

The work of the National Publicity Committee for the year beginning June, 1932, was defined by the N. S. A. under two headings:

  1. Issuing of newspaper articles which were to be distributed to the press by the local Spiritual Assemblies or mailed directly to the larger newspapers.
  2. Direct work with the local Assemblies with a view to increasing the efficiency and scope of publicity work in the various centers.

During the year the Publicity Committee has prepared four national news releases, on the following topics: the Temple Construction Contract; Persian Shah Grants Bahá’í Petition; the Passing of Bahiyyeh Khanum; Imprisonment of Turkish Believers. These were sent to the Bahá’í assemblies and to about fifty leading newspapers.

Three general letters have been written to the local Spiritual Assemblies. In the letter written October 20, 1932, this statement was made in connection with our publicity objective for the year—

“The results desired can be best secured through local publicity effort. National news articles cannot take the place of local notices, writeups and other news of the Cause. The National Publicity Committee believes that the number of Assemblies active in this method of educating the public should be increased to include practically all Assemblies.

“This committee asks the cooperation of all the local Assemblies. We ask each one of you to appoint a capable representative or a small, compact, active committee whom you can trust to do this important work. The personnel should be enthusiastically interested in publicity and in its possibilities as an educating and attracting medium. We shall appreciate it if all the Assemblies will promptly report the names of those appointed.”

About twenty Assemblies responded to this request and, for the most part it has been with these that the work of the committee has been carried on most advantageously. Especially valuable has been the exchange of letters on the concrete problem of publicity and the suggestions which have been the outcome of actual experience.

These suggestions, result of the interchange of ideas between the local and national publicity committees, were listed and sent out to the secretaries of the local Assemblies in March, 1933. We believe that through the application of these helps the policy of the BAHÁ’Í NEWS Service may advance another step toward efficiency and standardization. This list is not conclusive, indeed, further valuable advice from different directions has made another such letter necessary—is now in preparation. The following list of suggestions are quoted:

  1. Timely material for Bahá’í publicity embraces such topics as the Bahá’í plan for World Government, Universal Peace and Disarmament, Unity of Science and Religion, Inter-racial Amity, Universal Language, Economic Solution, Oneness of Religions, etc.
  2. This material may be incorporated in a public talk, written up with brevity, and handed to the editor.
  3. It may be in the form of a letter

[Page 17]

to the editor, tied in with a comment on some current matter of general interest.
  2. It may be in the form of a News Article sent from the Bahá’í News Service. This should be rewritten to include a local lead relating, for example, to “the Bahá’ís of this city.”
  3. It is important to get even the name of the Bahá’í Movement before the public. This has been done in connection with the presentation of library books, benefit entertainments for charity outside the Cause, announcement of programs.
  4. One very successful way of spreading the name of the Cause and indicating the trend of our interests is to invite guest speakers from local colleges, ministers, inter-racial leaders, peace workers, etc., to appear, with a Bahá’í chairman, on our platform. It is comparatively easy to get publicity for such well known speakers. Many of them are willing to give a short publicity statement to the publicity chairman in advance of the meeting to have ready in the hands of the city editor.
  5. Visiting Bahá’í speakers from other cities have “news interest.” They can help by preparing in advance a strong news statement selected from their talk. This is a forehanded assurance of publicity material customary with large national organizations when a speaker is on tour.
  6. A suggestion toward the much desired “lead” which is a necessary prelude to acceptance is to tie in material with national holidays, or with some absorbing current event ( not political). Talks by local speakers have been taken because a line has been quoted from a book by a prominent local educator.
  7. Be on the alert for articles in magazines, book reviews and the like that should be answered by Bahá’ís.


In answer to our request for a report of publicity activity throughout the country (not yet complete) such items as these are of general interest:

At least thirty-one out of fifty-four local Assemblies are actively trying to get into the newspapers.

West Englewood has placed more publicity than any center in the country. Ali K. Kahn, chairman of the local committee writes “The thing to do is to send in articles with local news and a large percentage get in.”

Mrs. H. W. Bivins, of Decatur, Alabama, former newspaper woman and isolated believer, has written a feature article called “Our Crisis in Civilization,” which after some revision she is hoping to place in a Nashville Sunday Supplement.

Racine has been very successful in placing cuts of the Temple, feature articles and notices in the paper, due, in part, to the fact that they have made an objective of gaining the support of the editors by sending their clippings to the other centers with requests that recognition in the form of letters and comments be sent to the editors. For example, such a letter commenting on the Cause, written by the publicity chairman of Los Angeles was printed in Racine.

Mrs. Nellie B. French of Pasadena is responsible for a weekly Bahá’í column called “The Loom of Reality.” She writes

“I always choose some topic of the day taking the observations of some prominent writer and following with the words of Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá or Shoghi Effendi. I use great tact so as not to embarrass the editor and thus I have never stated the station of the Revelators nor seemed to be using propaganda.”

Montreal sends us a National News release reprinted from Chicago. It is suggested by St. Paul that we send clippings as examples of successful publicity to centers where the editor is still reluctant to cooperate.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *


The committee have made a large scrapbook of clippings for the files of the N. S. A. and duplicates will be sent to Shoghi Effendi before the Convention. We thank all the friends for their assistance in collecting these records.

Signed:
NATIONAL PUBLICITY COMMITTEE:
MRS. DORIS MCKAY, Secretary
WILLARD MCKAY, Chairman
HORACE HOLLEY
ALLEN MCDANIEL
MISS ALICE PARKER

Temple Program Committee[edit]

In looking back over the year’s activities at the Temple as reflected by the minutes of the Temple Program Committee we become impressed by the fact that this Committee functioned more systematically, we believe, than it has during any previous year. The work was more efficiently organized and many innovations inaugurated, and while many of these were finally discarded, the experiments thus tried resulted in definite lines of procedure which during the year were gradually improved by constructive suggestions and consultation.

Visitors at Temple[edit]

For the first time detailed and careful records were kept during the summer months relative to the number of groups as well as the total number of visitors received daily at the Temple. We give below a summary of the total groups and total visitors to the Temple during the months of July, August and September of 1932.

Total
Groups		 Total
Visitors
July 397 1889
August 541 2186
September 539 1964


The above figures are not complete for the reason that on Sundays and holidays there are so many visitors that it is impossible to keep accurate record, but the figures given for July, August and September give some idea of the problem before the National Programme Committee in efficiently meeting the vast number of visitors who will no doubt throng the Temple during the summer months of 1933. The records show that especially during the summer months of last year there were visitors from almost every state in the union as well as from some foreign countries. The names left by all such visitors were forwarded to the nearest Assembly or Group for follow—up work.

World’s Fair[edit]

With the coming World’s Fair this Committee realizes the great responsibility placed upon it to meet this unusual opportunity to present the Teachings of Bahá’u’lláh and are giving special consideration to this problem.

The Temple Dome will be visible from the fair grounds on clear days and in the event that the exterior work on the Dome is completed or partly completed so that illumination effects will be produced, it will be visible at night and attract a great deal of attention.

Those in charge of the World’s Fair estimate that there will be between sixty to seventy-five million visitors in Chicago during the summer and if only five per cent of this total visit the Temple it becomes obvious that we are faced with a tremendous problem.

A special committee has been appointed and have already had their first two meetings at which definite plans have been outlined and which contemplate presenting fifteen or twenty minute talks every half hour from 9 a. m. to 9 p. m. during the summer months. This committee at

[Page 18] present is composed of twenty-five members who will form the nucleus of the necessary number of workers required to, be on hand each day at appointed times. It is planned that this special committee will meet twice a month between now and June 1st to discuss and to perfect the plans which have been outlined.

Speakers at Temple[edit]

One of the most difficult problems with which this committee has been confronted during the year has been that of providing qualified speakers for the Sunday afternoon public meetings at the Temple, but we feel that the results achieved have been most satisfactory. During the early part of the year it was difficult to make up the monthly calendar and to provide speakers for every Sunday meeting and at the same time avoid using any one speaker too often but as time went on this problem seemed to solve itself as more and more speakers became available for this work. The following is a list of the friends who served in this capacity most beautifully during the past year:

Dr. E. L. Morris, Miss Pearl Easterbrook, Mrs. Shahnaz Waite, Mrs. Nellie S. French, Mme. Laura Dreyfus-Barney, Mrs. Frank Baker, Mrs. Corinne True, Mrs. Ruth Moffett, Mrs. Sarah Walrath, Mr. Albert Windust, Dr. Zia Bagdadi, Mr. Carl Scheffler.

The committee feels that this problem has been met satisfactorily and that as time goes on more friends will become qualified to make public Bahá’í talks so that no further difficulty in this connection is anticipated.

Publicity[edit]

For the past two years, up to November 1st, 1932, it was the practice to keep interested inquirers posted regarding Bahá’í activities by mailing them monthly calendars. After careful consideration this procedure was abandoned because it was the ‎ consensus‎ of opinion that the results obtained were not commensurate with the expense involved.

Since that time we have adopted the plan of co-operating with the Chicago Assembly in arranging to place a ‎ weekly‎ announcement in the Chicago papers of the Sunday meetings as well as the mid-week meetings in the Chicago Bahá’í Headquarters and we have also installed a Bulletin Board in the lobby of the Foundation Hall of the Temple which gives information relative to all such meetings. The results have been most gratifying.

Respectfully submitted,
MR. CARL SCHEFFLER, Chairman
MRS. ANNE BARTHOLOMEW
MRS. NINA MATTHISEN
MRS. SARAH WALRATH
MRS. MARJORIE ULLRICH
MRS. EDRIS CARSON
MRS. SHELLEY PARKER
MR. MONROE IOAS
MR. ANDREW NELSON

Green Acre Summer School[edit]

Last year the N.S.A. appointed a faculty committee to organize a Bahá’í summer school for serious study.

In the past various schools have been started at Green Acre but this school undoubtedly went one step further than its predecessors in that it requested and actually obtained some outside preparation for the class work. It is not too much to say that in the long run the lecture system at Green Acre has had very little if any permanent value. We all realize the benefit derived from an inspiring lecture but it may produce no lasting result unless it is followed by some real study.

The indifference to study does not spring from any inability to concentrate or assimilate new ideas but to the fact that we have no real desire for intellectual activity. After all, if we have no time nor urge to study perhaps our opinion upon things in general is not worth stating. We cannot keep intellectually alive upon the information we have stored up years ago.

In the “Dawn Breakers” last summer, references were not only assigned to the text but to books in the public libraries. It is true that less than half the class responded to this sort of thing, but it is also true that it was this minority that made the class worth while. The encouraging part is that most of those who did outside work were not accustomed to formal study. In fact some of them had been away from classroom work for forty years or more. Nevertheless they were all one, and we caught a glimpse of what the great Bahá’í university of the future might be.

It is often discouraging to those new in the Cause, when the class is dominated by the opinions of older Bahá’ís, especially when such opinions are a little removed from the present Bahá’í Commonwealth. However, unity always obtains when young and old approach a subject in the same spirit, and last summer we discovered that this is possible.

Sometimes, in a new field, it is necessary to be trained and guided before we can do much reading. In her course on the Psychological Principles for the Control of Personality, Dr. Coy demonstrated how a group may be drawn out to express not what they think they ought to believe but rather what they really believe. If we can discover the basic desires of a group or the individuals within the group then we are in a better position to estimate what particular phase of the Cause will interest and benefit each. This course was an excellent supplement for the teaching conference which was pressed for time and could not encourage discussions.

Other courses discussed in detail certain aspects of the New World Order, Bahá’í Economics, and the Foundations of Religious Belief.

Practically all of those who took part in the classes feel that we have laid the foundation for the future Bahá’í university. In the very nature of the case, such an institution is too far in advance of our present knowledge to warrant any description of even the broadest outlines, to say nothing of details. On the other hand it must be started sometime and the best we can do is to build upon the principles of modern education, such as they are today. The fact that we have few attending the classes need not discourage us.

Again we must differentiate between enthusiastic gatherings, which assemble for a few days and a group of students assimilating information over a much longer period. The whole atmosphere is necessarily different and the results to be obtained are likewise different. Yet we all know that the Bahá’í principles will have some creative effect in either case.

In this respect Green Acre holds a unique position.

To the friends that have known Green Acre for some time, many of the old associations—people and things—have disappeared. We don’t do the things we used to do. We don’t have the same reactions. We may even miss inspiring leaders. But may this not mean that we depended too much upon habit and the emotions that result from habit? In short, is it not possible that we have unconsciously built up a system of ritual and priesthood upon which we may lean?

Perhaps after all the salvation of Green Acre is in the inevitable change to which it has been subjected.

G. A. SHOOK,  
Chairman Faculty Committee.

[Page 19]

Pacific Coast Summer School[edit]

The sixth annual Summer School at Geyserville, California, July 3rd to 16th, 1932, was one of the most unique sessions ever held.

The Friends on the Pacific Coast look forward with anticipation from one Summer School to the next, as the intimate association of the Friends and the harmony it develops, brings revivification and regeneration for the ensuing year’s service to the Cause.

This year the bonds forged in previous years were welded more closely, and a sustaining atmosphere of energetic devotion displayed; notwithstanding difficulties that could have caused confusion. This demonstration among sixty or more Bahá’ís showed that the knowledge gained from study together was not alone of the mind, but of the depths of the heart, which brings about the better way of living. Non-Bahá’ís visiting the school comment freely at the harmonious spirit that animates these gatherings. In commenting on the Bahá’í Summer School at Geyserville, one of the prominent teachers at the Pacific School of Religion, said he had never been in a group where there was such a complete lack of racial consciousness; where each one seemed to be anxious over the happiness of the other, and where a group of people endeavored to live up to their ideals, as did the Bahá’ís!

The Bahá’í lectures on the evolving factors of society; the solution of the present world problems; and the paths to Universal Peace, were in advance of the contributions offered by non-Bahá’í lecturers, specialists along such lines. As the world in its wanderings approaches closer to the implications of the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, the Bahá’ís will be called to leadership in directing the way to Universal Peace; as the people of the world are Without vision and guidance.

The sessions opened on July 3rd, under the “Big Tree,” with the Annual Unity Feast. This Feast, under the “Big Tree,” has become an unusual pilgrimage of, the Friends, for fellowship and devotion. Complete happiness and spiritual fortitude were gained by the one hundred and forty friends in attendance, setting the basis for the enthusiasm developed during the Sessions.

The courses of study included a sociological survey of the situation of society today; the bases of its evolvement into the consciousness of the New Day; and the steps to Universal Peace; also a course on the growth of the Faith itself, from the memorable deeds of the Pioneers of the Cause, as portrayed so vividly in the Dawnbreakers, to the unfoldment of the sublime and Universal Teachings of Bahá’u’lláh, culminating in the perfecting of the medium through which His spiritual benedictions may be assured to posterity, namely, the Administrative Basis of the Bahá’í Religion.

The roundtable discussions presented an interesting feature. In the afternoons the Friends gathered in the shade of the towering Redwoods, on the slope of one of the Hills, and informally discussed the various phases of the subject matter presented in the classes in the morning, or other subjects that might require clarification or discussion. Following the creative method of discussion whereby each person presented his opinion freely, so that after the clash of differing views, the Spark of Truth might be found, a new vista of the unending opportunities of true consultation was unfolded.

Four public teaching meetings were held. Great interest was displayed on the part of many new souls.

It is very encouraging to see how the alluring spirit of the Cause is attracting the orthodox people of this small community. Now they look forward to the coming of the Bahá’ís during the summer months, whereas formerly they seemed fearful of these harbingers of a new day.

Twenty-three children, including a few of the village children attended the classes for the training of children. The excellent conduct and results were due to the untiring efforts of the Committee handling this important feature of the school life. Their plans will be further unfolded during the coming summer, under the direction of the new committee appointed by the National Assembly, on the Training and Teaching of Children.

In commenting on the program of the Summer School, Shoghi Effendi, through his secretary, stated:

“The wide range of the topics that are to be discussed and studied by the Friends, cover most of the important aspects of the Cause and such a plan will undoubtedly give them a broad and sound knowledge of the essentials of the Faith. Special stress, however, should be put on the history of the Movement, as well as on the guiding principles of Bahá’í Administration for on these two points most of the believers are not adequately informed.”

In compliance with these instructions, the Summer School to be held July 23rd to August 5th, 1933, will present detailed courses on the History of the Movement and the Administration of the Faith. A special course for young people will be conducted on “The Influence of Religion on Society.‎ ”‎ With these most important subjects for consideration it is urged that everyone who possibly can attend the School this year.

Let us not overlook the fact that the love of the Cause is ever augmented through sacrifice and service. Thus the loving association we enjoy at Geyserville, is assured through the sacrifice and service of John and Louise Bosch to all the Friends. Their sincere efforts could do no other than attract the benedictions of the Holy Spirit to all the gatherings.

Pacific Coast Summer School Committee.
JOHN D. BOSCH, Chairman,
AMELIA E. COLLINS
ELLA G. COOPER
GEORGE O. LATIMER
LEROY IOAS, Secretary.

Central States Summer School[edit]

The Central States Summer School held its second session at Louhelen Ranch, Davison, Michigan, July 31st to August 7th, inclusive. The average attendance for the week was a little less than sixty. This was twice as many as the previous year. On one or two days when groups came from Detroit there were seventy or seventy-five. This increase is largely because it is becoming more widely known that there is a summer school for the Central States.

The first Sunday was largely devoted to a teaching conference under the guidance of Mr. and Mrs. Bishop Brown of the national committee. What an inspiring beginning their leadership, enthusiasm and devotion made for the week! For one of the chief objectives which our Guardian has set for the summer schools is the instruction and inspiration of teachers. In the morning Mrs. Brown explained the outline for the study of “The Dawn Breakers.” In the evening Mr. Brown unfolded for us the reconstructed teaching plan showing how this plan puts greater responsibility, not only on the local assembly but on each individual, calling for larger knowledge of the teachings, greater devotion, greater severance. This conference between the group and Mr. Brown was continued during the consultation period Monday morning.

On the afternoon of that first Sunday a public meeting was held at a community hall about sixteen miles from the ranch. The meeting was arranged for by the Reverend J. M. Pengelly who became interested in the

[Page 20] Cause during the summer school of 1931. This was the beginning of seed sowing in an entirely new field. Mr. Pengelly also invited Mrs. Ruth Moffett to speak on the Bahá’í Cause from his own church pulpit on that Sunday morning.

The daily program for the week was: a period of prayer and meditation conducted by Miss Pearl Easterbrook; a period devoted to the study of Nabil’s Narrative conducted by Mr. Vail; a consultation period for adults and one for youth; a public lecture; a class in public speaking; and informal evening talks sometimes around a camp-fire. This program left much of the afternoon free for recreation,—swimming, horseback riding, croquet, walking, riding or quietly searching out the deeper mysteries with some wiser friend.

One of the most important parts of the school was the fine group of eighteen or twenty young people. Some of this group were awakened to the true meaning and power of the Bahá’í Cause and went away eager to serve in spreading the Glad Tidings. One of this group wrote afterwards, “I love to think of the days at Davison; it really was almost perfect.” Mrs. Dorothy Baker was the wise and loved guide of these young people. They conducted their meetings as a forum, headed by a chairman elected from their own number. Their program committee working in consultation with the summer school Committee planned the course of study and called upon two ten-minute speakers for each meeting, one from their own group and the other a guest speaker. At the close of these talks an open forum was held to which all contributed. At all times the guest speaker remained silent unless called upon, thus insuring delightfully free expression among the members.

This summer school is held on a farm at Davison, Michigan, nine miles from Flint. The farm house and buildings, the cabins in the beautiful ravine are hospitably opened by the owners to the use of Bahá’ís during these nine days. The host and hostess of this restful country place are also desirous that it shall be used throughout the season for those wishing a short vacation of quiet and inspiration and for Bahá’í groups for week-end outings and feasts of attraction.

Who shall say what were the results of this session? Our Guardian has set as objectives of our summer schools: to deepen the knowledge of the Cause; to strength the unity in the Cause; to teach the Cause and prepare teachers; to attract new souls; to arouse enthusiasm for continued study at home; to widen acquaintance and friendship; to gain knowledge of other problems and find light through consultation on our own: We think there was no one there who failed to inhale the fragrances that are diffused when sincere souls are gathered together in the Name of Bahá’u’lláh or to feel the love that spreads from unity in the love of God.

Plans are under way for the third session. Accommodations are being enlarged and the program is being worked out. The young people are having especial consideration in these plans. After deliberation the committee has decided to set the date a month earlier than last year making it the last of June and the first of July instead of the first of August. This will open the house and grounds for the season and it is hoped that individuals and small groups will avail themselves of its privileges for week-end outings or short vacations. And it is also hoped that some who come from a distance to the convention will be able to linger in the Central States, attend the summer school, help by their presence and inspiration and strengthen the bond of unity between all parts of our country.

L. W. EGGLESTON,
BERTHA HYDE KIRKPATRICK.

Committee on Teaching and Training Children[edit]

During the past several years there has been a steadily growing realization on the part of educators and parents that while the present system of education in America is quite successfully keeping pace with the advance of science and commerce, it is somehow failing to develop within children those qualities of character that make it possible for them to adjust themselves with ease to the rapidly changing demands of social life attendant upon this progress in other fields. So generally has this fact been recognized that the first petition in the “Children’s Charter” as formulated at the recent White House Conference on Child Health and Protection was: “For every child spiritual and moral training to help him to stand firm under the pressure of life.” ‘Abdu’l-Bahá long ago spoke of the importance of this matter when He said: “The children must receive a divine and material education at the same time and be protected from temptation and Vices.” Bahá’í parents and Assemblies have attempted to carry out this injunction to some extent but the increasing responsibilities facing the small body of believers have made it impossible for them to develop child training to the same degree as other branches of teaching service.

Realizing that Bahá’ís can point the way to that kind of religious life that will make it possible for young people to successfully meet the responsibilities that will so shortly fall upon their shoulders in all departments of life, it was deemed advisable by the National Spiritual Assembly to appoint a special national committee to give consideration to this problem. The chief duty assigned to this committee this year was to make a special study of the whole question of training and teaching of Bahá’í children, including the preparation of teaching material and other concrete suggestions for use by local Bahá’í communities. The members of the committee were appointed because of their special training and experiences in various fields of education and each, in addition to collaborating in the general work of the committee, has devoted himself or herself to some particular branch of the service.

This being the first year for such a committee, it is natural that a considerable amount of time would be consumed in organizing the personnel, surveying the field, planning a program of action, and collecting and preparing material. In order that it might have the benefit of the experience and advice of the local Bahá’í communities, one of the first steps taken by the committee was the preparation of a course of lessons which could be used by a sufficient number of Bahá’í communities to serve as a common basis for consultation with the teachers of Bahá’í children. To this end an experimental course of thirty-six lessons, suited to children of seven to eleven years of age, was made available to ‎ Assemblies‎ at a small cost. No attempt was made to make this course an exhaustive study, but rather it aimed to give the class using it a very broad view of the purpose of religion and its influence upon the individual and society. References, prayers, and quotations for memory work accompanied each lesson. Twenty-two classes are using this material in some manner and most of the teachers have reported their experiments and expressed their appreciation of the plan.

Voluminous correspondence has been carried on with individual friends on all phases of the work and by this means the committee has gathered

[Page 21] some excellent suggestions for future use. It may be interesting to the friends to know that requests for this first course of lessons have been received not only from all parts of the United States but also from Germany, Australia, England and Bulgaria.

In addition to this first step in the preparation of teaching material, the committee has compiled a vast amount of reference material from the best possible non-Bahá’í sources which will be made available to teachers and the Assemblies in the near future. Work is also proceeding on material for teacher training as well as for pre-school children and for adolescents. As a result of the plan for consultation with the teachers, the committee has found there is very definite need for such material as Bahá’í stories for children, music, dramatics, illustrative material, etc., and it is anticipated that these needs can be met to some degree next year.

As the committee is eager that all it produces or sponsors shall measure up to the Guardian’s standard of authenticity and perfection, it has acquainted Shoghi Effendi with its problems and findings and at the time of the compilation of this report it is awaiting the advice and suggestions of the Guardian on a number of important matters.

In conclusion, the committee wishes to express its sincere appreciation of the valuable cooperation of the National Spiritual Assembly and the National Teaching Committee in stimulating the local Bahá’í communities in the organization of children’s classes. To these, as well as to Auntie Victoria and all the teachers who have been of great inspiration and who have given freely of their time, not only in actually teaching but also in sharing their material and experiences with the committee, is due much of the credit for whatever success has been achieved this year. As in all educational work this field of service is illimitable and its importance can best be defined in the words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá: “Upon the children of today—whether boys or girls—depends the moulding of the civilization of tomorrow.”

Respectfully submitted,
Committee on the Training and Teaching of Children.
MAYE HARVEY GIFT, Chairman.
CHARLOTTE M. LINFOOT, Secretary.

Legal Committee[edit]

The Legal Committee, as requested, submits the following report of activities for the current Bahá’í year.

Procedure in appeals: The Legal Committee has furnished the National Spiritual Assembly a statement containing our views of the principles controlling the procedure under which the National body should receive appeals from believers, and suggestions as to the method and conditions under which appeals can properly be considered. This report was approved by your body.

Palestine Branch: One of our members has rendered an informal opinion as to any responsibility incurred by the National Spiritual Assembly in the way of taxes and the submission of annual reports to the Palestine Government arising from the existence of this corporation under Palestine law.

Comment on current legal matters: One or two important matters not referred to the Legal Committee, but having direct legal interest and importance, are referred to in this report in order to give them further emphasis in the minds of all American believers.

1. By-Laws: It seems advisable to record in this report the fact that since the adoption of the By-Laws by the National Spiritual Assembly several years ago, certain amendments have been adopted by the National body. These amendments are incorporated in the text of the By-Laws as published in The Bahá’í World, Volume IV, and in the pamphlet recently issued through the Publishing Committee. In seeking to act in conformity with the By-Laws, local communities are advised to make use of the text as revised to April 1, 1933.

2. International Bahá’í Corporations: Great emphasis should be laid on the Guardian’s letter to the National Spiritual Assembly during the course of the current Bahá’í year informing you of the steps he is taking to incorporate Palestine Branches of other National Spiritual Assemblies. These steps will lead to the existence of a number of Bahá’í Corporations in Palestine, representing the believers of all countries having a National Assembly. It would appear that these steps have been taken in order to lay a substantial foundation for the future International House of Justice.

3. Incorporation of Local Spiritual Assemblies: The Legal Committee would remind the friends that the Guardian wishes Local Assemblies to incorporate when they reach the point of due stability and strength. In addition to New York, Chicago and Washington, we understand that the Assembly of West Englewood, New Jersey has already incorporated or is in process of doing so.

4. Green Acre: During the course of this Bahá’í year; all legal matters arising from the Will and Testament of Miss Sarah J. Farmer have been brought to a final settlement.

5. Geyserville: Steps are being taken to constitute an Indenture of Trust by which Trustees for the benefit of the National Spiritual Assembly can receive from Mr. and Mrs. John Bosch their valuable property as a precious gift to the Cause.

6. Estate of Mr. Louis G. Bourgeois: The Temple Trustees this year have come to a final agreement on all matters outstanding under the two contracts with Mr. Bourgeois, the principal matter being related to the studio constructed by Mr. Bourgeois on Temple lands. The Trustees are purchasing this studio from the estate, and at the same time settling other financial items, under an agreement entered into with Mrs. Pemberton, Executrix.

HORACE HOLLEY, Chairman
ALLEN B. MCDANIEL,
LOUIS G. GREGORY
SIEGFRIED SCHOPFLOCHER
C. G. NORDQUIST.

Committee on Free Literature[edit]

In order to make a survey of the field of free and inexpensive literature in use this committee asked the assistance of the Teaching Committee. The following questionnaire was sent to many assemblies:

  1. How much free literature have you on hand?
  2. When do you distribute literature?
  1. Public Meetings.
  2. Individually.
  2. How do you follow up literature given out?
  3. Do you consider distribution of free literature effective in teaching?
  4. What is your choice of such literature now available?
  5. Have you any suggestions as to preparation of new free Lit.?
  1. Possible content.
  2. Form.
  2. Are you in need of free literature at present time?
  1. What?
  2. Remarks.


The following is a brief summary of the many replies to this questionnaire:

  1. Most assemblies had very little or none on hand. The small books in use were: What is the

[Page 22]

Bahá’í Movement, Dawn of a New Day and Temple of Light.
  2. Both, mostly at the public meetings.
  3. Mostly by personal contact, a few through invitations to the public meetings and notices.
  4. Only two assemblies did not think this method effective. Many felt it most effective and important, but suggested it should be controlled with wisdom so as not to be wasted, as it is picked up around the Temple Grounds.
  5. The first choice was “Dawn of New Day,” second “What is the Bahá’í Movement;‎ ”‎ third “Bahá’u’lláh and New Era.” Other choices were “Bahá’u’lláh and His Message,” “Temple of Light,” “Goal of New World Order,” “World Economy,” “Wisdom of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá,” “Peace Pamphlet” and “Bahá’u’lláh and His Message.”
  6. a. Possible Content:
    Simplified outline of Economic Plan; Approach to Cause through prophecies of Christian Bible; Some of outstanding talks of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, such as to the Jews, Theosophists, Scientists, etc.; Development of Religion from same foundation, its application to social needs of its time, and what the Cause offers to the Social Program of today; Administrative, showing loyalty to government, world citizenship and federation of nations; a modern, general approach, which does not begin with the personalities and Mohammedan background, that can be given to business men.
    b. Form:
    Leaflets; small for stacks; folders (no staples); pamphlets. Distinctive print and attractive make-up.
  7. Only four assemblies replied they had enough for present.
    a. Anything: something new, leaflets.
  8. Remarks: Many did not make any comment. The most important was the need to expedite new leaflets on present day approach. Time ripe to make people realize the New Age and the New Order of things which cannot be built on old foundations, but on the Manifestation and His Teachings. Another suggestion for different types to reach various groups such as:
    a. Humanists, Jews, Universalists and Liberals.
    “Reality of Man, his place in Divine Order and need of Divine Educator.”
    b. Unity Students, New Thought, etc.
    “Prayer, its place in education. Must man pray?”
    c. For Young thinker and intellectual doubter.
    “Immortality, eternal life, values of the spiritual.”
    d. For vast group of active people (social workers) who are perplexed over problems of today.
    “Way of world peace, co-operation of races (quote from scientists) service as standard for this day, new light on social and economic justice (quote from leading thinkers) Some feel that quotations from the Word of various questions, such as the history, prophecy fulfilled and being fulfilled, relation of the Cause to Christianity, universal peace, the Temple, etc., is best, while others feel that detailed quotation are not advisable in preliminary pamphlets. Some suggest the use of everyday English and reference to names of Holy Family. It is interesting to note that some suggest literature for the uneducated person, others to suit the average person, while still others want literature to attract the intellectual people.


After a general survey of all the leaflets, pamphlets and booklets published during the past decade, most of which are out of print at present, together with those that are still available, the committee feels that something new is vitally needed, a series perhaps that will have a universal appeal and that will fit into a definite plan of progressive study and approach to the Cause. This series of small pamphlets or booklets should be of uniform size, attractive print, inexpensive cover (or no cover) to fit the ordinary commercial envelope. The number of pages might vary according to the subject matter, but should be arranged so that the various pamphlets could be put together, if desired. They should be printed in large quantities and sold in at least 100 lots, not to cost as much as the Dawn of New Day.

As to the subject matter to be covered by this new series of booklets, the following suggestions are offered:

  1. Religion: its logical development, showing the same foundation for each of the living religions, the universal teachings of the brotherhood of man, fatherhood of God, Immortality, Need of a Divine Educator. Religion’s place in the social development of man, what it is and how the Bahá’í Cause fulfills and answers the needs of today with its social program and the 12 principles.
  2. Outline of the Economic Plan. A brief survey of the problems confronting the world followed by a not too detailed presentation of the teachings on the Store—house, distribution of wealth, method of taxation (including the inheritance plan) voluntary giving, work as worship, co-partnership in industry, etc., closing with a suggestion of the New World order, loyalty to Government and House of Justice.
  3. The Bahá’í Temple. A description (more complete than the Temple of Light) with an outline of its various accessories showing the practical application of spiritual teachings to the material, social and spiritual needs of man. This should help to counteract the statement of just another church and in this booklet the emphasis should be given that it is for all mankind irrespective of religion, race or color.
  4. Universal Education. A brief exposition of the Bahá’í ideals, bringing in the equality of women and the need for greater advantages of a universal character, the aid of an auxiliary language and concluding with the underlying principle of agreement between science and religion. Brief quotations from leading scientists on their acceptance of God, the value of the moral principle in life, and that nature is not the last or ultimate word to man. Such men as Osborne, Steinmetz, J. Arthur Thompson, etc., would add testimony to this important subject help to show the concrete application of Bahá’í Thought to the problems of life.
  5. The Oneness of Humanity. This most vital underlying principle of the Cause can be presented in a practical way, also touching the subject of racial, religious and other prejudices. Practical points by authorities such as Dr. Franz Boas and others could precede the conclusion of the spiritual ideal of this Bahá’í Principle.
  6. Universal Peace. This principle, in view of another approaching war, needs another presentation of both the human and spiritual appeal. Perhaps a few figures of the appalling costs in life and property, and the means for settling disputes, such as the world court and international tribunal. Again

[Page 23]

the noble ideal must be translated into practical and reasonable terms.
  2. Prophecies. There is still considerable interest and demand for this subject. This subject, if treated, should not be confined to the fulfillment of Christian prophecies, as this matter is well covered by Dr. Esslemont, but should rather include all the important religions, that is in reference to the new day, and the return of the Promised One. Emphasize the renewal of religion, amplified and fulfilled and its divine origin.
  3. Power of the Holy Spirit. This in the nature of an appeal to the individual seeking self-development. The efficacy of prayer, ethics, the reality of man, spiritual healing, divine art of living, showing that the direct path to reality is self-sacrifice which is service to others and the exemplar of this method is the Divine Teacher who puts these teachings into daily life. This subject would appeal to the vast numbers interested in the various “New Thoughts” of today.
  4. The Way of Living. This to be a brief compilation of the Word on various subjects that will refresh the soul through daily reading and stimulate the urge to live a more noble and charitable life. Some of the Hidden Words, quotations on various subjects such as the ideal newspaper should be—beware of prejudice, love, mercy, happiness, the poor, etc., etc. A number of these brief quotations ones not used so often might be a fitting climax to this series.


In listing these subjects we have not attempted to cover the entire limits of the field, but we feel that a new presentation, with a modern approach to the needs of a perplexed and seeking society is most urgently needed. The titles and subject matter are merely suggestions for further consideration. We feel the need of brevity in these booklets and suggest that a short reference list of books for more detailed reading on the subject matter be included.

Each one of these booklets might be the opening wedge with an individual interested in a certain principle and if this interest is aroused then the others can be used for follow-up work. Again we urge an inexpensive printing, with attractive clear type. What is the Bahá’í Movement is neat, dignified and the type is readable. We suggest that only one address for further information be on each booklet. This may be a central permanent address where inquiries can be received and forwarded to an assembly in the locality of the inquirer or a blank space can be left for a stamp of the address of the local assembly or individual distributing the copies.

In closing we would also suggest that the Publishing Committee uses the same size of these booklets when publishing its next List of Books.

We feel there is also a need for longer pamphlets such as World Economy, The Bahá’í Movement, The Goal of a New World Order. We suggest also a uniformity in size and price of these books and also a definite plan in their writing and publication. Many articles written for magazines have an immediate appeal and then are often published and later, because the particular appeal has changed these small books are not longer in popular demand. The human spirit is not as universal as the Holy Spirit.

Respectfully yours,
Free Literature Committee
LOUISE CASWELL
HELEN BISHOP
GEORGE LATIMER, Chairman.

Youth Committee[edit]

The Bahá’í Youth Committee, in accord with the instructions of the National Spiritual Assembly “to make a study of the range of activities suitable for Bahá’í young people and to recommend plans and programs to be carried out by Bahá’í Youth Committees appointed by local Spiritual Assemblies;” and in the two months at its disposal, now reports these suggestions:

  1. That the local Youth Committee be appointed at once, in such manner as to ensure the maximum freedom of choice to the young people. Whether this be achieved by the appointment of a large central committee, which shall in turn name its own officers, (as in New York, with a Committee of seven); or by the selection of a small committee which shall organize and maintain responsibility to the Assembly, at the same time turning over the election of officers to the group; or whether it be accomplished in some other way, is a matter of local discretion. The Assembly should also appoint an adult advisor.
  2. That a youth program for the United States and Canada be inaugurated at the National Convention, through the following channels:
Committee consultation.
A period of presentation and discussion, in the main body of the Convention.
Such informal and social meetings as the Committee shall find it possible to arrange, with authority to invite outside young people, visitors to the World’s Fair, etc.
In order to create interest and enthusiastic attendance, the Committee wishes to invite all young people, through correspondence with the local Assemblies.
  2. That this program, although it must be largely shaped at the Convention, include:
The encouragement of all possible types of groups, with special emphasis upon thorough study classes for confirmed Bahá’ís; informal discussion groups for strangers, organized about some inquiry such as “The Place of Religion in Society” (as was done at the World Council in Pasadena); and intensive training courses for teaching, to be conducted at the three Summer Schools, (following the example of the Geyserville School which this year introduces a course on “The Influence of Religion on Society.”)
The collection and arrangement of available study courses, to suit youth requirements. Where material is lacking, the organization of new outlines. (i. e., There should be papers which connect the various aspects of the Cause with world issues. Also perhaps an outline for strangers indicating the essentials of Bahá’í Faith, etc.) An important phase will be the preparation of bibliographies. The Committee will aim to make this material available to all groups.
The study of techniques and methods of teaching—such as creative discussion, the art of narrative, memorization, etc.—with special attention to ways of acquiring these techniques.
Centralized co-ordination of youth activities, maintaining close inter-connection, and conserving efforts.
  2. That a National Youth Committee be appointed for the coming year, not only to guide the national program, but to develop such long-range objectives as:
The continuous evolution of active co-ordination and co-operation among the young Bahá’ís. A census, with special note of the availability of various young persons, for the purpose of filling requests for teachers. National action upon national issues.
A campaign to interest and confirm the children of Bahá’ís.
The encouragement of literary activity: contributions to the Bahá’í Magazine and to papers of other countries; original research and the development of new material, especially that which will correlate the Cause with other branches of learning, and with world problems.
Co-operation with other youth movements and groups. Inform them of our existence, nature and friendliness.

[Page 24]

Offer to provide speakers.
The closer inter-locking of Bahá’í young people throughout the world. Become informed of their activities, keep in contact with them, etc.
In the larger centers, planning toward the activities—intellectual and social—of a Youth House.
Co-operation with the Children’s Committee, with attention to the needs of our immediate Bahá’í juniors.
Constant attention to the gradual entrance of young Bahá’ís into active and mature responsibility in the Community.

The Bahá’í Youth Committee, in sketching this program, is not unmindful of its scope nor immodest in vision. Such growth will depend upon years of work and devotion, happily given by a shifting army of youth. Indeed, there will be no beginning without that devotion. But we are confident of its existence. We discern in our restlessness a desire for action; we perceive in the social chaos a need for that action. We call for the wholehearted and vigorous aid of our fellows, assured of a response that shall match in enthusiasm our conception of a Faith, the power of which possesses our lives.

Faithfully submitted,
MRS. ELIZABETH GREENLEAF, Chairman
MRS. GRACE HOLLEY
MRS. DOROTHY BAKER
MISS MARION HOLLEY, Secretary
MISS PARVENE BAGDADI
MISS GERTRUDE GEWERTZ
MISS ROSEMARY GILLIES
MR. PAUL E. HANEY
MR. JAMES MCCORMICK
MISS ALLISON MCDANIEL
MISS FLORENCE C. MATTOON
MISS SYLVIA PAINE
MR. JAMES STONE, JR.

Committee on Editing Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá[edit]

The Annual Report of this Committee consists of a list of Tablets and articles in the Archives which has been gone over carefully and filed alphabetically. This work has great importance as preparation for the publication of additional volumes of the Master’s Tablets, but its nature is such that it cannot be reported in the usual way.

The National Spiritual Assembly takes this occasion to express its gratitude for the services rendered by the Committee.


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