Bahá’í News/Issue 90/Text
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The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís
of the United States and Canada
General Office: Evergreen Cabin, West Englewood, New Jersey
INSTRUCTIONS AND EXPLANATIONS FROM SHOGHI EFFENDI[edit]
The following passages are from a letter dated Haifa, January 27, 1935, and were written in reply to questions raised by the National Spiritual Assembly in connection with correspondence from local Assemblies.
“With reference to your question whether the figures of the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh should be made to appear as characters in dramatic works written by the believers, Shoghi Effendi’s opinion is that such an attempt to dramatize the Manifestations would be highly disrespectful, and hence should be avoided by the friends, even in the case of the Master. Besides it would be practically impossible to carry out such a plan faithfully, and in a dignified and befitting manner.
“In regard to your question concerning the nature and character of Bahá’í marriage. As you have rightly stated, such a marriage is conditioned upon the full approval of all four parents. Also your statement to the effect that the principle of the oneness of mankind prevents any true Bahá’í from regarding race itself as a bar to union is in complete accord with the Teachings of the Faith on this point. For both Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá never disapproved of the idea of inter-racial marriage, nor discouraged it. The Bahá’í Teachings, indeed, by their very nature transcend all limitations imposed by race, and as such can and should never be identified with any particular school of racial philosophy.”
PREPARATION OF NEW BELIEVERS FOR MEMBERSHIP IN THE BAHA’I COMMUNITY[edit]
In the August, 1932 issue of BAHÁ’Í NEWS the National Spiritual Assembly published an important statement entitled, “Qualifications of Membership in a Bahá’í Community.” The purpose of that statement, prepared in response to many requests for information made by local Assemblies, was to emphasize the importance of the vital function vested in the local Spiritual Assembly, of enrolling applicants as voting members of the community.
Reference to that statement will make it clear that at that time the need was to deepen the sense of responsibility felt by all Assemblies in applying the Guardian’s definite qualifications of Bahá’í membership. What the National Spiritual Assembly sought to accomplish was to remind local Assemblies that they could not leave this matter to any one or more of their members, or to any teacher, no matter how well informed and loyal the teacher might be. It was therefore stated that “The members of an Assembly assume no higher responsibility than in determining the character of their community by controlling its new growth.... One requirement, however, the National Assembly does lay down at this time: that Local Assemblies shall read to applicants the qualifications of voting membership as defined in the By-Laws, and record in their minutes the full and complete acceptance by each applicant.”
During recent months the National Spiritual Assembly has been receiving requests for further information on one particular phase of this general question: how best to prepare new believers for enrollment as voting Bahá’ís.
The suggestion has been made, in fact, that it would be well if the National Assembly could make a ruling that a certain period of time must elapse before any newly enrolled believer may exercise the voting right. It has been felt, with considerable justice, that even though a new believer may be entirely qualified as far as loyalty and knowledge of the teachings is concerned, nevertheless the wise use of the voting right calls for another essential qualification, namely, acquaintance with the local community and complete assimilation into its spirit and activities.
While recognizing the importance of this view, the National Spiritual Assembly must point out that it has no sanction or authority whatsoever to establish different classifications of voting membership. There is only one class or character of membership in the Bahá’í community—full and complete membership, with no distinction between the voting rights of a new and an old and more experienced Bahá’í. As soon as a believer is enrolled, he receives this voting right without the slightest qualification or exception.
To prepare applicants for the right use of their membership, consequently, the enrollment must be deferred until acquaintance with the community has been gained. This question, it is clear, arises more particularly in the case of the few large Bahá’í communities than in the case of the smaller ones where personal acquaintance is readily gained merely by attendance at study classes and public meetings.
For the larger communities—and in time every Bahá’í community will have a large membership in comparison with its present voting list—the National Spiritual Assembly now wishes very sincerely and earnestly to offer a few constructive suggestions which it is hoped each local Assembly will take to heart for the sake of the highest interests of the beloved Faith.
- As years of experience have shown, intellectual acceptance of the formal standards of Bahá’í faith alone is not sufficient to constitute a true believer. A true believer will, in addition, endeavor whole-heartedly to abide by the results of Bahá’í consultation as maintained by the institutions of the Cause. A true believer, furthermore, will seek to contribute to
- the unity of the entire community, and find his own development in the growth of the Cause, and not attempt to make the community revolve around his own personality, nor himself revolve around the human personality of any one believer. This capacity for spiritual association is not an additional qualification for membership—it is the real test of the believer’s profoundest spiritual faith. All teachers responsible for preparing applicants for membership will do well to emphasize this vital point, for the aim of Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation is to establish oneness of spirit and unity of action throughout the world.
- An applicant who is enrolled as voting member of a local Bahá’í community is thereby given association not merely in that community alone, but by his enrollment becomes a Bahá’í world citizen—a member of the Bahá’í Commonwealth maintained by the central institutions of the Guardianship and the Universal House of Justice. If he travels, the enrolled believer is given credentials which will be recognized and honored by National and local Spiritual Assemblies without distinction, whether in the East or the West. How important, therefore, in the preparation of applicants for membership, that they be made conscious of this supreme privilege, this most vital responsibility assumed by all who voluntarily seek the shade of the Divine Tree, who would contribute to the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh! This consideration is likewise a reminder to all of the present believers, especially those who are members of local Assemblies, how essential it is to avoid merely local and personal issues and situations which might conceal from an applicant the true universality of the Faith of God.
| SHOGHI EFFENDI ON BAHA’I ECONOMICS
“As you say, the Writings are not so rich on this subject and many issues at present baffling the minds of the world are not even mentioned. The primary consideration is the spirit that has to permeate our economic life and this will gradually crystallize itself into definite institutions and principles that will help to bring about the ideal condition foretold by Bahá’u’lláh.” |
- The same consideration likewise gives due emphasis to the fact that no local Spiritual Assembly is to be regarded as an independent, self-sufficient Bahá’í institution, but rather as one important link in the series of institutions which constitute the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh. Local Assemblies are dependent upon the National Spiritual Assembly, as the National institutions are dependent upon the Guardian and the Universal House of Justice. It is because of this organic dependence that the national By-Laws make enrollment conditional upon final approval by the National Spiritual Assembly.
- In order to assure the entrance of each new believer into the Bahá’í community upon the soundest basis possible, it is recommended that local Assemblies, wherever conditions permit, provide a final step for the preparation of applicants already interested by home study classes or some teacher’s individual instruction. This final step consists in the holding of a special study class under the Assembly’s own direct supervision and control, where the applicants can be trained in the Administrative principles and their knowledge of the basic teachings carefully reviewed. By this method, the new believers will experience the wise and impersonal functioning of the institution, and profit also by contact with other teachers. Later on, when local communities are larger and their collective undertakings more proficient, perhaps all applicants, before enrollment, will be able to receive this final, supervised instruction. At present, conditions vary so much among the communities that this suggestion must be developed in accordance with local circumstances. It would be well, however, for individual members of each local Assembly to feel a more positive responsibility in following all local teaching activities, visiting each class or group as frequently as possible, in order to have direct knowledge of this vital aspect of Assembly responsibility. By consultation it would then be possible for the Assembly to assist each group or class conducted by individual teachers in planning their subjects so as to lead up to the central study class held by the Assembly itself. Success depends upon the unity of the Assembly and the willing cooperation of all teachers, old and young, in striving to enlarge the Bahá’í community year by year.
- It has been realized by discerning Bahá’ís that one essential aspect of Bahá’í community life, the social aspect, has so far remained practically undeveloped. As local communities become larger and more experienced, their Assemblies will be able to arrange social meetings and gatherings to satisfy the innate human need of friendly association, thus supplementing the Nineteen Day Feasts and the Anniversaries which at present are the only recognized Bahá’í gatherings. The larger local Assemblies might even now arrange occasional feasts, in addition to those in the Bahá’í calendar, to provide occasions for informal association of believers and also to enable applicants to become acquainted with the local community. So far, such informal gatherings have been arranged mostly by individual believers in their own homes, which tends to make the social aspect of the community too onesided and personal, in distinction to the universality of the formal Bahá’í meetings. The National Assembly regrets deeply that Bahá’ís are still compelled to develop a social life either outside or on a basis of restricted intimacy within the Cause. But through social gatherings arranged by the local Spiritual Assembly, the social life of Bahá’ís will reinforce and strengthen their spiritual and ethical lives, and moreover such gatherings will not only bring the applicants and the older believers together but also demonstrate the vital fact that Bahá’u’lláh’s Faith, in the Guardian’s own words, inculcates a standard which “incline it to neither East nor West, neither Jew nor Gentile, neither rich nor poor, neither white nor colored.”
- Last but by no means least in importance is the fact that when new applicants are enrolled, not merely are they to be adjusted to the Bahá’í community, but the older believers are also to adjust to the new friends. This consideration, in fact, must receive increasing attention as indications multiply that the era of more rapid growth has begun. Courtesy, true Bahá’í love and the spirit of cooperation are due every new Bahá’í, without the slightest tincture of aloofness, separateness or, on the other hand, undue favoritism, from those who have longer shared the privilege of adherence to the Faith.
The National Spiritual Assembly
offers these remarks as suggestions deserving of thoughtful attention. In no
sense are they put forth as rulings or
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commands, because formal legislation
can not be carried into the realm of
the heart and the conscience. In essence, this statement is an appeal, an
urgent call for new and higher spiritual
attitudes on the part of all members of
the American Bahá’í Community.
IMPORTANT EVENTS AFFECTING THE FAITH IN PERSIA[edit]
A brief summary of the events which have recently challenged the unconquerable spirit of the Persian Bahá’ís is presented here for the information of the American believers.
In reporting these matters, it is pointed out that the friends should patiently and prayerfully wait until these sad happenings take their due course. All possible assistance has been extended; at present no action is available to the Bahá’í communities of other lands. The history of the Faith is surely an illustration of the truth that such opposition invariably serves to strengthen the believers in their faith, by stimulating the powers latent in their hearts and by quickening in them a new and deeper consciousness of their duties and responsibilities towards the Cause. Moreover, it is clear that the very progress and advance of Bahá’u’lláh’s Faith, by arousing denial and opposition, creates for itself such obstacles as only its divine spirit can overcome.
Many are the passages in the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh wherein He foreshadows the persecutions awaiting His Cause, but side by side with such passages is the assurance that out of these sufferings and trials the Faith will emerge purified and victorious.
The Tarbiat Schools and Bahá’í Kindergarten have been closed by order of the Ministry of Education. The National Spiritual Assembly thereupon instructed the believers not to send their children to other schools pending final decision on the closure.
A petition addressed to the Shah was undelivered.
The administrative body of the Schools made a detailed answer to the communication received from the Ministry of Education.
Soon after, the Bahá’í School for Girls at Kazwin was likewise ordered closed, and Bahá’í meetings and gatherings were completely banned. The Bahá’ís were forbidden to bury their dead in Bahá’í cemeteries or to bury them elsewhere with Bahá’í services.
At Kashan the School named Unity of Mankind was also closed. Bahá’í meetings were there forbidden, either in the Hazirat-ul-Qods or in the homes of believers.
The Hazirat-ul-Qods at Hamadan was likewise closed and meetings of Bahá’ís forbidden.
In the city of Iraq (Persia) the police closed the Hazirat-ul-Qods, destroying the Bahá’í inscriptions on its walls, and confiscated the records of the Spiritual Assembly.
From Kermanshah came reports that the police had closed the Hazirat-ul-Qods and stopped Bahá’í meetings. Muslim preachers slandered the Cause from their pulpits and incited the populace to rise against the believers.
From every part of Persia similar events were reported.
Finally, in Tihran itself, the Central Police Department of the country addressed a circular letter to all police bureaus ordering that Bahá’í activities be restrained, their gatherings, teaching meetings and organizations suppressed, that any person calling himself a Bahá’í be arrested, and any government employe calling himself a Bahá’í be dismissed from service and also put under arrest.
Following this general order, all Bahá’í meeting in Tihran, whether in private homes or in the Hazirat-ul-Qods were forbidden. A number of believers were summoned to police stations and warned not to make themselves known henceforth as Bahá’ís. The response to these threats, however, was so steadfast and unequivocal, expressing so firmly the determination of the believers to endure any suffering for the sake of their faith, that this order has apparently been abandoned.
Some of the Bahá’í children who have gone to other schools have been subjected to insult and humiliation by Muslim teachers and pupils.
Correspondence between Persian Bahá’ís and believers in other lands has become impossible.
Such episodes in the progress of the Faith can only deepen and intensify the ardor of the believers in other lands, whose hearts are one with their fellow-Bahá’ís in the country where first rose the Sun of Truth in this age. The mind goes back to the age of the Báb, recalling these noble words in “A Traveller’s Narrative”:—
“The flame rose higher and the contagion became swifter: the affair waxed grave and the report thereof reached other climes. At first it was confined to Persia: later it spread to the rest of the world. Quaking and affliction resulted in constancy and stability, and grievous pains and punishment caused acceptance and attraction. The very events produced an impression; impression led to investigation; and investigation resulted in increase. Through the ill-considered policy of the Minister this edifice became fortified and strengthened, and these foundations firm and solid. Previously the matter used to be regarded as commonplace: subsequently it acquired a grave importance in men’s eyes. Many persons from all parts of the world set out for Persia, and began to seek with their whole hearts. For it hath been proved by experience in the world that in the case of such matters of conscience laceration causeth healing; censure increaseth diligence; prohibition induceth eagerness; and intimidation createth avidity. The root is hidden in the very heart, while the branch is apparent and evident. When one branch is cut off other branches grow.”
DECISIONS OF THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY[edit]
1. Annual Voting Lists of Local Assemblies[edit]
“Moved, seconded and voted that hereafter the annual voting list furnished by local Assemblies should be accompanied by a separate list of all believers transferred to and from each Assembly.”
1. Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá[edit]
“Moved, seconded and voted to record the fact that local Assemblies are directed to instruct new believers in the meaning of this new compilation (i. e., the Will and Testament in the new edition announced in this issue of BAHÁ’Í NEWS) and furthermore, that local Assemblies are to be responsible for providing new believers with copies.”
SECOND REPORT ON 1934 CONVENTION RESOLUTIONS[edit]
In BAHÁ’Í NEWS No. 86, dated August, 1934, the National Assembly reported in detail on the recommendations made by the Annual Convention in the form of Resolutions duly voted. That statement is now amplified by report of the following actions.
- The Race Amity Committee has prepared a remarkable statement on Amity which has been approved. It is published elsewhere in this issue.
- The recommendation on establishment of a Children’s Bank was reported to a Committee which after consideration advises that such an activity be not undertaken at this time.
- This report has been approved.
- Several Resolutions bearing upon the need of definite procedures for the conduct of the affairs of a Spiritual Assembly, the consultation meeting of the Nineteen Day Feast, etc., were referred jointly to a special Committee whose final report is nearing completion. Whatever action is taken by the N. S. A. will be reported as soon as possible.
BAHA’I SUMMER SCHOOLS[edit]
Preliminary Announcement 1935 Program[edit]
The National Spiritual Assembly urges the believers to realize the vital importance of the three Bahá’í Summer Schools. These institutions are to evolve into educational centers which eventually will have profound public influence. At present they represent a most essential activity deserving the attendance and support of every believer who can arrange to enroll for the courses given at the School in his region.
1. Green Acre
Study Courses[edit]
- July 8-12. The Conduct of Bahá’í Affairs. Leader to be announced later.
- July 15-19. The Most Great Peace. Leader, Horace Holley.
- July 22-26. Fundamental Bahá’í Teachings. Leader, Shahnaz Waite.
- July 29-August 2. The Practice of the Bahá’í Life. Leader, Dorothy Baker.
- August 5-9. Bahá’í Teachings on Mysticism. Leader, Glenn Shook.
- August 12-16. Racial Similarities and Differences: The Scientific Evidence and the Bahá’í Teachings. Leader, Genevieve Coy.
- August 19-23. The Origins, Powers and Conditions of Man. Leader to be announced later.
- August 26-30. Review of “The Promise of All Ages” and “Security for a Failing World” with suggestions as to their use in teaching. Leader, Stanwood Cobb.
Conferences[edit]
- July 4-7. Teaching Conference,
- July 20, 21. Youth Conference.
- August 17, 18. Race Amity Conference.
2. Pacific Coast
(Geyserville)
July 14-27[edit]
Devotions: 9:00 A. M. daily.
Classes: 9:30 A. M. to 12:30 P. M. daily.
Round Table Discussions: 2:30 P. M. each Tuesday and Friday.
| IMPORTANCE OF BAHA’I SUMMER SCHOOLS
|
Children’s Activities: Study Classes 9:30 A. M. daily. Supervised Recreation, 2:30 P. M. daily.
Public Meetings: Fellowship Dinner with Geyserville Grange, 6:30 P. M., Thursday, July 18. Griffith Grove, Santa Rosa, 2:30 P. M., Sunday, July 21. Odd Fellows Hall, 8:00 P. M., Wednesday, July 24.
Unity Feast: Annual Reunion of Bahá’ís and guests, 12 noon, Sunday, July 14.
Courses of Study:
- History of the Bahá’í Faith.
- Underlying Principles of Bahá’í Administration.
- The Administrative Order of the Bahá’í Faith.
- Individual and Collective Relationships to the Bahá’í Faith.
- The Teaching and Influence of Islam.
Teaching Conference: 2:30 P. M., Saturday, July 20.
3. Central States
(Louhelen Ranch)[edit]
Young People’s Conference.
- Monday. June 24 through Thursday, June 27. Registration, Sunday, June 23.
Study Courses[edit]
- The Bahá’í Life. Leader, Dorothy Baker.
- Bahá’í Approach to World Problems. Leader, Bishop Brown.
- The Guardian’s Letters. (A forum to be conducted by the Young People’s Council.)
- What is the Bahá’í Movement? (Introductory course to be given by young people selected by the Council.)
- First General Summer Session. Saturday, June 29 through Sunday, July 7. Registration, Friday, June 28.
Study Courses[edit]
- Conduct of Bahá’í Affairs. Leader, Horace Holley.
- Security in a Failing World, Leader, Stanwood Cobb.
- Divine Art of Living. Leader, Loulie A. Mathews.
Public Meetings[edit]
Afternoon talks. Subject and speaker to be announced later.
Second General Summer Session. Monday, August 19 through Saturday, August 24.
Study Courses[edit]
Two courses will be presented. Announcement later.
THE DIVINE CALL TO RACE AMITY[edit]
The Annual Convention of 1934 unanimously voted a resolution requesting the National Spiritual Assembly, either directly or through this committee, to issue a general appeal to all the friends on the authority of the teachings, for greater and more effective action to improve race relations. This matter has been referred to this committee, a task which it is on our part gratifying to assume.
Let us express, first of all, our faith and serene confidence in the program and order of the Most High, Bahá’u’lláh, as the one complete, perfect and universal remedy for the ills of the world. The luminous Orb of His Covenant dispels shadows of earth. Remote from this Haven are dark waters and tempestuous seas in which even the wise men of the nations are tossed with visions more or less obscure.
We recall with high praise the firm and courageous stand taken by the National Spiritual Assembly, the Annual Convention, Green Acre and various local centers, wherein the authority of the divine teachings has been visibly, largely and heartily upheld in programs and meetings, orders of business, spiritual and social communion of the various workers and friends, a standard which may well be emulated by all others. The work of harmonizing the races gathers strength and volume with the passing years. Timidity and extreme caution give way to assurance and confidence when once the work is well begun. Courage, vision, wisdom and love are among the
[Page 5]
MEMORIAL TO KEITH RANSOM-KEHLER AT ISFAHAN
Architect’s drawing of Memorial designed by Myron H. Potter, Cleveland, Ohio, selected by the National Spiritual Assembly for construction at cost of approximately $1,000 under the direction of the Isfahan Spiritual Assembly. This Memorial, the tribute paid to the first Bahá’í martyr of America by her fellow believers of the United States and Canada, will in future be visited by throngs of Bahá’ís from the East and West.
ingredients of race amity. It is noteworthy that not a single effort has
failed. This fact alone, considering
our limited numbers as against the momentum of mankind, suggests that
Reservoir of Power which moves the
spheres.
The specific and definite purpose of Divine Appearance and Revelation is the unity of mankind. What the Manifestation, Bahá’u’lláh, reveals on this subject runs through all the sacred writings. His majestic proclamation of divinity to the kings; His positive instructions to ignore racial differences; His mantle of freedom to the oppressed and judgment of loss to the oppressor; His mighty overthrow of tyranny and despotism; His personal example of contacts with various races; His demonstrations of power to fuse traditionally warring groups; His “gathering of the elect from the four winds”; His overpowering call for action; His Light from the highest plane; His solace for those who seek refuge from the wilderness of decay and change; His great rewards to those who do His Will; His creation of a new cycle: These and numberless other signs of outpouring set up an unshakable foundation upon which amity workers can build.
Those who were blessed in meeting ‘Abdu’l-Bahá may well recall how He combined the courtliness, grace and strength of the lion with the loveliness, purity and gentleness of the dove when directing this service to America. His invigorating terms are found in many lessons and Tablets. Wherever He journeyed He sought to serve and teach the colored along with the white and both in public and private demonstrated His views in ways unmistakable. He brought the races into loving fellowship and showered His healing love upon all. Provincialism, prejudice and insularity of thought melted before His sublime wisdom and magnetic smile. On the streets and in the seats of the mighty, among the lowly and obscure and with those socially prominent He adhered to the great principles of Bahá’u’lláh. Moreover He promised the Confirmations of the Spirit to those who uphold and apply the great principle of unity through love. Many and potent are His signs bearing upon this vital theme. In every city visited He attracted large audiences which hung upon His every word. People did not shrink from Him because His viewpoint enlarged theirs. Rather they seemed all the more happy to meet One who restored their souls. Ever more and more established becomes His vision of reality.
Turning to our Guardian, we find that he shows the same deep and practical interest in race amity as the Great Ones who preceded him. Who can read his persuasive and dynamic appeal found on pp. 119-121 of the volume, “Bahá’í Administration,” without having his soul stirred to the depths? This is a model worthy of the closest study and concentration. Pilgrims tell his interest. Others share his letters. But as we read his stirring, winged words, unmistakably intended for the body of the Cause, we are as it were in his presence and feel powerfully moved to action. The authority that here speaks is unquestionable; the standard set lacks nothing of perfection; the motivating power is the mystery of divine love. We are asked to sacrifice only the veils that separate, the superstitions that darken, the prejudices that foment strife—nothing that is real! Our humble efforts are sustained by what comes from the world of spirituality, auroras of the Light Divine.
Next to consider is what is gleaned from the great scientists of the age whose genius lighted by the Hand of
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God has discovered the reality of humanity. Out of a wealth of material
the following is selected from the book,
“Against the Current”, by Prof. A. E.
Steiner of Grinnell University:
“I should like to point out in which direction the most valuable lessons of my experience lie. I believe they are:
“A. That racial characteristics are largely determined by environment.
“B. That race prejudice is an artificial product of the mind induced by various influences.
“C. That on the highest spheres of activity all races are alike.
“D. That every human being, no matter what his color, race, faith or class, has a right to earn the respect of his neighbor and his community by what he himself is.
“E. That the brotherhood of man will be an established fact as soon as each determines to live like a brother in his relations to his fellows.
“G. That he who would enter into a fellowship with the nation or race with which he lives must free himself from all isolating practices and beliefs.
“H. That entrance into such a large human relationship has to be ‘bought with a price’, and that it is a price well worth paying; for there is no loftier human experience than becoming one with all mankind.”
How glorious the vision the above quotation unfolds! The author seems to belong to the class of divine philosophers mentioned in the sacred text.
Realizing therefore how firm is the base upon which we build; how vast the strength which supports our endeavors; how heartening the examples of the Holy Ones who are creating the New Age; how unrealities crumble day by day; how eagerly countless souls are looking for Light: May we not be stirred to greater efforts to fulfill the divine requirements in ways that count? Specifically what can we do to feed the famine of mankind?
In the spirit of prayer and consultation and having at heart all other vital activities of the Cause, the following suggestions are made in behalf of this most humanitarian and needed branch of service:
- According to Bahá’í Administration, page 41, the work of this committee is limited to holding amity conferences or directing them, stimulating interest in amity service and receiving and preparing reports for the National Spiritual Assembly. Every Spiritual Assembly should appoint its own local amity committee. Aside from amity conferences this committee has no jurisdiction over the local work. But any aid we can render them at their request will be joyfully given by members of this committee.
- Race amity conferences should be improved for “intensive teaching” as well as bringing the races together. Free literature should always be available and for this use will be sent on request. Smaller meetings should follow as a means of increasing the number of believers. One or more sessions of such conferences may perhaps well be used as a problems’ meeting, wherein the answers may be made to questions in the light of the heavenly teachings. Refreshments and dinners may have an important bearing.
- The Publishing Committee is requested to reprint race amity literature of which there is a present dearth. It is our hope that new writers will be stimulated to action. Diversity of presentation is an added power of attraction.
- An amity conference to be followed by a course in race relations may with great value become a part of the program of each Summer School, also be adopted by the large centers especially for the training of youth. Great universities of our land, North and South, now have courses in race relations and the idea has spread to other progressive organizations. In keeping with the wishes of our Guardian that teachers be well informed, scientific books which supplement and are in harmony with the spirit of the cause should also be read. Mention of outside books carries with it no endorsement either of their authors or of the full content of such works. But books of a sociological, educational and scientific nature often contain matter which is of value in this work. It is in this spirit therefore that we mention the following brief:
- The New Age of Faith, by John Langdon-Davies, Garden City Pub. Co., New York.
- Anthropology and Modern Life, by Franz Boaz, W. W. Norton Co., New York.
- Why We Behave Like Human Beings, by George A. Dorsey, Harper Bros., New York.
- Negro—A National Asset or Liability, by Dr. John Louis Hill, Literary Association Inc., Chrysler Bldg., New York. View of an enlightened Southerner.
- Outline of Universal History, by H. G. Wells, Garden City Pub. Co., New York.
- Souls of Black Folk, by W. E. Burghardt Dubois, A. C. McClurg & Co., New York.
- Christianity and the Race Problem, by J. H. Oldham, Geo. H. Doran Co., New York.
- What the Negro Thinks, by R. R. Moton, Doubleday-Doran Co., New York.
- The divine teachings are authoritative, and should be studied first and last. It is fascinating and helpful to see to what extent they are reflected by contemporaneous men of genius.
- We know our unworthiness to serve so great an undertaking, but respond as far as we can to the higher bodies which command our efforts. It is our prayer that such labors may attract Unseen Favors which may direct progress to the ultimate goal. The Divine Will which is motion and life commands the creatures to move. Although God Himself has spoken, His Wisdom requires that the creatures give their word of testimony.
- May we not broaden our social life by improving it to teach, both in theory and practice, better race relations? A firm and courageous stand in this regard has been known in the past to attract the aid of people of commanding influence and power. Study of the achievements of each group and admiration thereof may be good preparation for this work. Human welfare workers have great influence in spreading the Bahá’í Faith.
- The use of outside speakers at amity conferences should be exercised only with great caution and wisdom, as statements made by them will be attributed, not unreasonably on the part of the public, to the Bahá’í Faith when made under its auspices.
- Those who are spiritually inclined, who are prominent in humanitarian service, are friendly to all races as well as to the Bahá’í religion, are conversant with its universal principles and are willing to speak within them, may at times be so used with the double advantage of bringing influence to the meeting as well as spiritual attraction and guidance to the speaker. As the primary purpose of all such teaching efforts is the knowledge of the Cause, it is obviously wise to avoid any expressions that may through partisanship, politics or limited and destructive thoughts veil inquirers.
- The aspiration of the colored people as well as other minority groups in this our American life, can justly and wisely soar no higher than the
- wish to be treated as well as other Americans are treated. The laying down of concrete and detailed rules for this attainment would, we fear, retard rather than advance the cause we advocate. But a safe general rule to follow is the Golden Rule taught by all the Prophets of God in every dispensation and today restated, vitalized and applied by Bahá’u’lláh:
- If thou lookest toward justice, choose for others what thou choosest for thyself.”
- This is of transcendent value whether applied to individual or racial contacts. If for the sake of conveying our thoughts and the wisdom of service, we are compelled to use the parlance of different races, then to choose for other races what we choose for our own will be the quickest way to end racial differences. The accident or incident of birth which fixes our identity is not of our own making. The Creator, we are assured, intended it for ornament, but not for divisions. The divine intention expressed in human action will bring salutary and happy results.
- Among things to be avoided are elements of discord which raise issues between races, such as the negative side and the real or supposed shortcomings of races.
- Among constructive things to do are:
- Correctly appraise and value the virtues and services of other races, thus inspiring a similar attitude on the part of those so regarded.
- Use every means upon the basis of education, business, sociology and religion to overcome the superstitions, fancies, prejudices and pride which create those divisions which always go with artificial standards.
- To rest assured that faith and sincerity and effort must inevitably bring success.
- ‘Abdu’l-Bahá says:
- “You must rest assured, knowing that the Confirmations of the Kingdom are of a certainty yours; that the favors of Bahá’u’lláh are with you. If all the inhabitants of the earth should gather they would fail to withstand you; for they are on the wane, while you are waxing stronger. They are retrogressing; you are progressing.”
- A few Bahá’ís especially interested in race amity should join their community organizations, such as the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, the Urban League, Colored Y. M. C. A. or Y. W. C. A. and attend meetings sponsored by them. Here they will meet people of the other group, learn and
WILL AND TESTAMENT OF ‘ABDU’L-BAHA
New Edition
In accordance with this advice, the National Assembly appointed a special committee to select the suitable extracts. Its selections have been approved, and the Publishing Committee has issued the selections in the form of a pamphlet. See announcement by Publishing Committee and also the resolution adopted by the N. S. A., both appearing in this issue. |
- appreciate their art, literature, music and other accomplishments, also their problems. Thus through personal contacts they may establish friendly relations with individuals and so learn their psychology. Opportunities will come to cooperate and help in all such affairs. Bahá’ís can thus meet and invite leaders of other groups within the wisdom before stated, to speak at public meetings held at the Bahá’í center, especially in large cities. In small communities these leaders of opinion, educators or artists, even lesser people from the world’s viewpoint who are spiritually inclined, can be invited to the homes of Bahá’ís where a reception, tea or conference can be arranged. The value of meetings like these may be three-fold.
- People with capacity contact the Bahá’í group, get its spirit, hear its message.
- The audience, new people as well as the Bahá’ís, will have their outlook and sympathies broadened by exchanging viewpoints with such persons, a step toward overcoming prejudices.
- At such meetings as these all attending Bahá’ís can personally contact new friends and above all, follow up all such collective and individual contacts, teaching the divine principles by both words and deeds. The aim is to attract, teach and confirm new souls no matter what their racial identity may be.
When an outside speaker is invited to occupy the Bahá’í platform, it is always wise to have a Bahá’í chairman and also a Bahá’í speaker to follow the outsider. Questions raised should be tactfully and wisely answered, a service easily rendered under guidance and in the light of the Bahá’í teachings.
In large communities it is sometimes well to attend dinners where various races mingle given by other organizations. Many new friendships can be established by sitting, eating and chatting with people. And so the divine principles can be applied by word and deed. Kindness shown to the few colored people in small communities has a special value of spiritual attraction. Historical and contemporary reviews of the achievements of other races tend to broaden culture, remove prejudices and improve understanding.
- A prayerful and a joyful attitude of service is the summary of our suggestions. A spiritual state, we are told, is a happy one. Although the pressure of life is very great, let us also remember that a perfect being has a sense of humor.
‘Abdu’l-Bahá says:
“What is needed is divine joyousness. The star of happiness is in every heart. We must remove the clouds so that it may twinkle radiantly?”
- Respectfully submitted,
- THE NATIONAL RACE AMITY COMMITTEE
- By: LOUIS G. GREGORY, Chairman.
- MRS. LOULIE A. MATHEWS
- MRS. BISHOP H. LEWIS
- MRS. MARIAM HANEY
- MRS. LUDMILA BECHTOLD
- MR. LOUIS G. GREGORY.
NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY PLANS NEW BAHA’I MAGAZINE[edit]
To Be Public Teaching Medium for the United States and Canada[edit]
In the last issue of BAHÁ’Í NEWS the Guardian’s letter dated December 1, 1934, expressed his approval of the plan adopted by the National Spiritual Assembly concerning the union of The Bahá’í Magazine and World Unity.
“Concerning the union of the two Magazines ... the Guardian hopes that the N. S. A. will proceed quickly in this matter. He fully approves the action which you contemplate, and any details in this connection he leaves entirely to your discretion.”
This plan essentially consists of the abandonment of both the existing publications and the founding of an entirely new monthly magazine to be entitled World Order.
This new magazine, the first issue of which will appear April 1, 1935, is to be edited and operated under the full and exclusive jurisdiction of the National Spiritual Assembly. It will be edited jointly by Stanwood Cobb and Horace Holley, and the business management will be conducted by the Bahá’í Publishing Committee, thus bringing the publication and sale of all Bahá’í literature in America under one unified management appointed and supervised by the National Spiritual Assembly.
World Order (the title chosen from the term given such significance by Shoghi Effendi) will endeavor to create a public teaching medium adequate both in appearance and contents to represent the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh upon the American continent. Its aim will be to expound the Message upon which human regeneration and universal peace depends, and thus assist in raising our teaching nearer to the lofty standard so perfectly symbolized by the Bahá’í House of Worship.
In conformity with its impressive title, the magazine will seek to clarify for the general public the vital elements which enter into the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh—the oneness of religion, true race amity, the harmony of religion and science, the union of East and West, the attainment of world community based upon world federation as explained by the Guardian. Its aim and purpose being completely concentrated upon serving the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh, the editors call for articles from Bahá’ís on any and all subjects capable of conveying the Bahá’í principles and spirit to the people of this age. Articles by non-Bahá’ís will be included only to the extent that the believers themselves are not yet prepared by thorough study to produce material of sufficiently high standard on certain themes like Comparative Religion, the relation of Science and Religion, etc. In all cases the editors will give Bahá’í contributions the preference, but they have been directed to maintain a high standard, that the magazine may give the best possible impression to its readers.
An important part in its success will be the seriousness with which Bahá’í writers prepare themselves to meet this opportunity of bringing their work to a larger circle of thoughtful non-believers than ever before. The problem is essentially one of finding the most effective teaching method through the written rather than the spoken word. How would you express the Faith if you were chosen to write an article for scientists, or for students of religion, or for psychologists, or sociologists, or school teachers? While faith is the all-important element, some degree of knowledge and insight is obviously necessary.
Another important factor in its success will be the degree of intelligent cooperation developed by the local Assemblies not merely in securing subscriptions from members of their community but also in bringing it to the attention of local people they wish to attract to the Cause. Each Assembly is urged to use a certain number of sample copies a month as a regular part of their teaching plan.
Subscribers to The Bahá’í Magazine will receive World Order throughout the unfilled part of their subscriptions. The price per issue will be only 20c, annual subscriptions $2.00 each.
Address of World Order Business Office, Bahá’í Publishing Committee, P. O. Box 348, Grand Central Station, New York City. Address of Editorial Office, 119 Waverly Place, New York City.
A sample copy of the first issue will be sent to each local Spiritual Assembly.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM NATIONAL COMMITTEES[edit]
Publishing[edit]
Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá: Excerpts selected by the N. S. A., with passages from the Báb, Bahá’u’lláh and Shoghi Effendi which bear upon the significance of the Testament. Pamphlet, uniform with the World Order letters of the Guardian. 10c per copy net. Sold only in lots of ten, $1.00.
The Bahá’í Magazine: published in India, (See page 5, BAHÁ’Í NEWS No. 88, November, 1934.)
Bahá’í Teachings on Economics: Compilation prepared by the Bahá’í Teaching Committee from the material gathered by the Committee on Economics at the request of the N. S. A. 1933-1934. Contains 16 pages mimeographed. New edition, price 10c per copy net and sold in lots of 10 only, $1.00.
The Bahá’í Faith: A brief outline and summary of the Faith prepared for the special purpose of meeting the need for a condensed statement of fact which can be supplied to newspaper editors, encyclopaedias and various organizations and by them kept on file for reference whenever necessary. Invaluable also for general teaching purposes. The Outline is a four page folder, standard letter size, adapted for convenient filing. Sold in lots of 100, price $3.00 per 100 net.
Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era, by J. E. Esslemont, translated into Esperanto by Lidja Zamenhof. We recommend it to all studying this universal language. Price reduced from $1.50 to $1.00.
Special Offer for $1.00 net:
- 5 The Bahá’í Movement
- 5 Whence Comes the Light?
- 5 Oneness of Mankind
(An opportunity to obtain these valuable little books all suitable for free distribution for teaching purposes at less than half price.)
Bahá’í Lesson Outlines for Children. Prepared by the Committee on the Training and Teaching of Children. 4 sections, lessons 1 to 36. Should be used by all believers in bringing up the next generation. Mimeographed, price 75c net.
The Dawn-Breakers, Limited Edition autographed by Shoghi Effendi. There are still a few copies on hand and we suggest that anyone desiring to add this valuable addition to his Bahá’í Library, secure a copy before it is too late. Price $35.00, postage prepaid.
Youth[edit]
On behalf of the Bahá’í Youth Committee it is reported that its Bahá’í Youth Bulletin No. 2 has been approved and is being mimeographed for early distribution. Copies will be available soon after March first at 10c each, through the Publishing Committee in the usual way.
Part of the edition has been assigned
[Page 9]
to the Youth Committee for free circulation.
This Bulletin contains an admirable Study Outline intended for use by young people, and this is called to the special attention of local Spiritual Assemblies and local Youth Committees. In addition a Bibliography of current books on Peace and news items reported from Youth groups here and abroad make this number both interesting and important.
Library[edit]
The Library Committee expresses appreciation of the cooperation given by local Assemblies in donating to Public Libraries a copy of “Security for a Failing World” by Stanwood Cobb.
Now the Committee recommends that similar action be taken to place copies of “The Promise of All Ages” by Christophil in local Libraries.
These two new Bahá’í works have a strong appeal to different types of people, and hence will serve to illustrate the universality of the Faith. The Library Committee should be notified of the Libraries where either or both books are placed.
Index[edit]
The important work of the Index Committee requires the cooperation of believers who are trained both in the literature of the Cause and in library work. The Committee wishes to compile a list of American Bahá’ís who can assist in the preparation of the catalog card references to the Bahá’í books which will serve as the basis of a future Index so much needed by students of the Teachings.
The following books are to be indexed: Iqán (new edition), Hidden Words, Some Answered Questions, Wisdom of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Divine Philosophy, Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, Promulgation of Universal Peace, Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh. The Dawn-Breakers, Bahá’í Administration, the Guardian’s World Order Letters and his “Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh.”
Local Assemblies are requested to suggest the names of trained workers to the Index Committee through Mrs. Esther G. Harding, 704 West Nevada Street, Urbana, Illinois.
Teaching[edit]
All isolated believers who have not yet signed the registration cards sent out by the Teaching Committee with a letter dated January 2, 1935, are requested to do so and send the card to Miss Charlotte Linfoot, Secretary, 376 60th Street, Oakland, Calif., as soon as possible.
Eventually only such isolated believers, as are enrolled by these registration cards can be carried in the lists of Bahá’ís recognized by the National Spiritual Assembly.
IN MEMORIAM[edit]
The friends are requested to remember in prayer the following believer who has entered the Kingdom.
- Mrs. Frances A. Moore, Lima, Ohio.
PUBLIC REFERENCE TO THE CAUSE IN NEWSPAPERS AND MAGAZINES[edit]
The Pittsburgh Courier, a Negro paper, in its January 5 issue carried a two column article entitled “Universal Brotherhood is Object of the Bahá’ís; Prejudice Outlawed.” The writer, L. F. Coles, outlines the Bahá’í principles and expresses appreciation of the kindness and Bahá’í information given him by Mrs. Ludmila Bechtold, James F. Morton, Jr., and Louis G. Gregory.
Through the courtesy of Mary Maxwell information has been received that a full page illustration of the Bahá’í Temple is included in the “Architectural Year Book of Foreign Architecture” for 1934, published in Canada for Canadian architects.
The monthly magazine entitled American Astrology contains a letter written by Francis Arthur Kelsey of the New York Bahá’í community which quotes excerpts from words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá on the subject of reincarnation.
NEW EDITION OF WELL KNOWN BAHA’I WORK IN FRENCH[edit]
The National Spiritual Assembly is indebted to the kindness of Mme. Laura Dreyfus-Barney of Paris for a complimentary copy of “Essai Sur le Bahá’ísme: Son Histoire, Sa Portee Sociale,” by the late Hippolyte Dreyfus-Barney, recently issued in a new edition with an appendix containing excerpts from “Le But d’un Nouvel Ordre Mondial” and “L’Economie Mondiale de Bahá’u’lláh.”
THE CHICAGO DEFENDER[edit]
In view of the fact that Dr. Abbott, Editor of The Chicago Defender, is publishing articles on the Cause so frequently, some of the believers may wish to enter a subscription. The cost is $3.00 per year, and the address, 3435 Indiana Avenue, Chicago, Illinois.
INTERNATIONAL NEWS PARIS[edit]
A circular letter from the Spiritual Assembly dated January 1, 1935, brings interesting reports.
The Fifth Annual Meeting of the Union of Bahá’í Students in Europe was held December 30 and 31 in Mme. Scott’s new studio, 12 rue Victor Considérant.
Discussion was held on the following subjects:
- The Bahá’í Faith and the existing world political situation.
- The Bahá’í Faith in modern Persia.
- Discipline, the foundation of liberty.
- Patriotism and world cooperation.
In these meetings the young believers penetrated deeply into the spirit of the Faith; their thought was mature, their expression logical and clear.
Our bi-monthly meetings have been maintained regularly, and in addition we have instituted a Saturday meeting for lectures and study which are already beginning to bear fruit.
Serious consideration is given to the matter of publications in the French language, and we have just re-issued “L’Essai sur le Baha-isme” by Hippolyte Dreyfus. We have also printed a new small pamphlet entitled “Le Bahá’ísme: Son Histoire, Sa Portee Mondiale,” which Shoghi Effendi has approved. These are sold at 16 francs per hundred, postage additional.
GERMANY AND AUSTRIA[edit]
A significant step has been taken by the National Spiritual Assembly under the Guardian’s advice. It is now the “National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Germany and Austria.”
Its Bahá’í News, published in German, has become an important organ of the Faith, and the following information has been gathered from recent issues.
“While it is its primary task to create a greater understanding and a fuller appreciation of Bahá’í administration, the Bahá’í News will also disseminate knowledge of the progress of the Cause and of the work done in other countries.”
Twelfth Annual Convention[edit]
“The Twelfth Annual Convention of the Bahá’ís of Germany and Austria
[Page 10]
took place at Stuttgart on Saturday,
April 21 and Sunday, April 22, the
first two days of Ridvan. The Spiritual Assembly of Stuttgart had made
the necessary arrangements for the
Convention and had created opportunities for friendly association of believers and guests, who had gathered from
various parts of Germany, from Switzerland, and from Persia. (Unfortunately, events prevented our Austrian
friends from participating in the Convention.”)
Report of the N. S. A.[edit]
During the year, at the request of Mrs. Alice Schwarz, sole editor of The Sun of Truth for many years, the editing of the German Bahá’í Magazine was placed under the direction of Dr. Adelbert Muehlschlegel, Dr. Eugen Schmidt and Mrs. Schwarz.
“To assist the communities in their work during the winter, an exposition of the Bahá’í beliefs was sent them together with compilations from the writings of Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá on various subjects, as well as a list of speakers with their special topics which the friends may employ as teachers.
“It was decided to replace—as far as possible—the term ‘Bahá’í Doctrine’ by the more appropriate term ‘Bahá’í Faith’ which is already used by the friends abroad. It was also decided during the session of April 8, 1934, to change the designation ‘Spiritual National Council of the German Bahá’ís’ to ‘National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Germany and Austria.’ ”
The annual election: Mrs. Alice Schwarz, Chairman; Dr. Adelbert Muehlschlegel, Vice-chairman; Dr. Eugen Schmidt, Secretary; Paul Gollmer, Treasurer; Mrs. Martha Brauns, Max Greeven, Dr. Herman Grossmann, Miss Edith Horn, Miss Anne Koestlin.
The following letter was received from the Guardian:
“Haifa, May 25, 1934. I was very glad to receive your news of the splendid Annual Convention which you have had, of the results which the delegates insured, and of their choice in the election. This Convention marks a turning-point in the history and in the progress of Bahá’í activities in your country. I am convinced that you stand at the threshold of unparalleled accomplishments.”
Concerning the Summer School, the National Spiritual Assembly reports: “This year’s Summer-Week at Esslingen has been another vital experience, a manifestation of a strong sense of unity and a firm common will to comprehend and reflect the pure and holy spirit which animates the Bahá’í Faith. There was such an unexpected increase in the number of participants compared to last year that the available accommodation was hardly sufficient, in spite of the extensions finished just before the opening. The Guardian had given his special support to the Summer-Week and it was through his initiative that the attention of the friends abroad was aroused so that believers from Sofia and Belgrade, Geneva, Paris and the United States were represented. It was gratifying also to see German friends from Austria and Holland.... The National Teaching Committee is going to publish pamphlets containing condensed articles on the topics presented at the Summer School. These pamphlets will not only make the results of the study-courses at Esslingen accessible to a wider circle of friends and inquirers, but they will also offer to the participants an opportunity to refresh and deepen their knowledge by a subsequent second study of the subjects.”
Vienna[edit]
The news letter recently established by the Spiritual Assembly of Vienna is a powerful addition to the local news organs of the Faith. The American N. S. A. appreciates very much the privilege of receiving it.
From current issues the following items have been selected:
Speakers at public lectures have been Mrs. L. Lappinger, Mrs. Julia Schwarz, Franz Poellinger, Miss St. Korton.
The Vienna Bahá’ís have been happy to receive visits from Martha L. Root and Louise Gregory.
In addition to news items, the bulletin contains selected passages from the Bahá’í literature, and well-prepared statements on the meaning and purpose of the Faith.
MARTHA L. ROOT IN STOCKHOLM[edit]
From a most interesting letter written by Miss Root to the National Spiritual Assembly, the following items are reported:
“The Twenty-sixth Annual Universal Esperanto Congress held in Stockholm, August 4 to 11, has been another triumph for the Cause. I was able to get four Bahá’í articles into the Swedish press. Our Bahá’í Esperanto literature was on sale.... At the opening of the work of the Congress I had the opportunity to give the greeting of Shoghi Effendi and the good wishes of the Bahá’ís of the world to this Congress where nearly a thousand people were present. I was the second speaker.
“The Bahá’í Esperanto session at 10 A. M., August 10th, was very beautiful and the power of the Holy Spirit was in our midst. It was held in a Council Chamber of the great Parliament building. Twenty nations were represented. On the long table we had an exhibition of English and Esperanto Bahá’í books, with the Esslemont book in many languages. We had a rich, soft-toned silk cover on the table, and the books were placed upon it. Dr. and Mrs. Grossmann of Germany and the American N. S. A. had sent us Esperanto booklets and La Nova Tago to give to the guests. Miss Alminda Zetterlund, Bahá’í and Esperantist of Stockholm, presided. She spoke of the need of the renewal of religion and outlined the Bahá’í principles. I spoke next, explaining what is a Bahá’í, the beauty of the inner Teachings for spiritual evolution, and the Administration.... Lidja Zamenhof spoke last and as one inspired. Her talk was much applauded and was praised in the press.
“Then, on August 11, in the closing session of the Congress, I again had opportunity to give a brief resume of the success of the Bahá’í session. This has never happened in any previous Esperanto Congress....
“The Twenty-seventh Annual Esperanto Congress will be held at Rome in August, 1935, and they plan a kind of tour through Italy. I pray very much that some Bahá’ís in all countries will train themselves to speak Esperanto courageously, correctly, fluently, and that they will take their places on the international committees. There is opportunity to bring the Bahá’í Cause to many thousands of Esperantists.”
MARION JACK IN SOFIA[edit]
A Spiritual Assembly has been constituted in Sofia, the first Assembly in the Balkan States of Europe. This is surely a most important achievement, in view of the prevailing social disturbance throughout that continent.
Miss Jack writes that the card list of interested people has about 150 names. “It is thrilling to meet so many receptive people as we have here in Bulgaria. How we could do with half a dozen teachers!”
LOUISE GREGORY IN BELGRADE, JUGOSLAVIA[edit]
In two letters this devoted servant of Bahá’u’lláh has shared the news of her teaching activities since the Convention.
“I am writing a few lines just to tell you that I am very hopeful now about the work at Belgrade since recently meeting two very receptive souls who seem ready to become believers. One is a spiritually minded educator, the other a musician. The professor says that he will translate “The Goal of a New World Order” into Serbian as a service to the Cause. ... I have good news from Varna (where Mrs. Gregory formerly carried on her Bahá’í activity) that the students are continuing to meet and one of them teaches the Cause during vacation in his home town of Burges.
... There is much more that I can do here than at Varna, and up to recently this large country has scarcely had the Message, though Martha Root has for some years when passing through given a few talks. This last year she stayed more than once for over a month, and besides lecturing and meeting individuals she arranged for the translation and publication of Esslemont’s “Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era.” Besides this we have a tiny pamphlet in Serbian which is a great help. The translator of the “New Era” (Mme. Draga Ilié), has become a devoted believer. Unfortunately she is in the hospital and must have a serious operation. I should be so glad if the friends will pray for her. The work here depends so much on this dear and gifted spiritual sister.
“Things are progressing slowly but surely! Two people have declared themselves believers, both well educated and ardent to pass on to others what they know about the Cause.... Besides these, a number of poor Russian University students are getting interested in the Teachings by attending a free class I give them in the English language.
“If some capable and devoted workers could come over and help us our Guardian would be very happy. Both Marion Jack and I would be too delighted to give all necessary information to any Bahá’í teacher who finds it possible to come and stay some time either in this country or in Bulgaria. The living costs are very low. Teachers who work well with student and youth groups would be particularly helpful.”
| NEWS ITEMS FROM ASSEMBLIES NATIONAL COMMITTEES
With sixty local Spiritual Assemblies, and in addition an increasing number of National Committees, the task of preparing news items from the extensive material received by the National Spiritual Assembly is becoming difficult. In preparing these items, effort should be made to keep them brief and also to include only such matters as are of sufficient interest and importance to be preserved in the national Bahá’í newspaper. The work of selecting and preparing these local and Committee items, in fact, is in itself an excellent training for the publicity work which is becoming an important function of Bahá’í activity. In days to come, BAHÁ’Í NEWS will appear as a weekly and eventually as a daily paper, but in these pioneer stages of our development the friends must attempt to visualize the relative importance of each event in terms of the present small and inadequate monthly news letter. |
SPECIAL NOTICE[edit]
The National Assembly’s file of BAHÁ’Í NEWS lacks one copy—No. 39. If any local Assembly or individual believer can provide this missing number it will be greatly appreciated. Kindly address the National Secretary.
NEWS FROM AMERICAN COMMUNTTIES[edit]
Spokane[edit]
On November 28, 1934, Orcella Rexford presented the Bahá’í Faith to an audience of about eight hundred gathered at the Masonic Temple. This great service to the Cause resulted in the formation of a teaching class of some two hundred interested people conducted by Louise Caswell.
The class has continued three times a week. The Spiritual Assembly is happy indeed to express its gratitude for the devoted services contributed by Orcella Rexford and Mrs. Caswell, and anticipates a large increase in the community as result.
One interesting incident reported was that a bronze medallion of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá was brought to a meeting by a non-believer, who could not tell its origin or history.
Binghamton[edit]
On September 7 the Young People’s group conducted a pageant by Kenneth Christian depicting the early history of the Báb and His followers. The performance was impressive and inspiring.
Speakers from other cities who have addressed meetings at Binghamton this year are: Mary Hanford Ford, who on November 9 spoke on “The Prophets” at Hotel Arlington; Charles Mason Remey, who spoke on “The Oneness of Mankind” and also on “Architecture and Religion;” and Dr. R. F. Piper of Syracuse University, whose subject was his recent visit to Haifa.
Meetings are held Friday evenings and Wednesday afternoons, the latter having given special study to the Guardian’s “World Order” letters and to sections of “Some Answered Questions.”
The Assembly expresses appreciation of the assistance rendered by the National Publicity Committee.
Chicago[edit]
From reports of the Spiritual Assembly and of the Teaching Committee the following summary of activities and accomplishments has been prepared.
Wednesday noon lectures in October were delivered by Mabel Ives, and Dr. Ali Kuli Khan. Shahnaz Waite’s series of lessons is used by the class meeting Wednesday afternoons, which enjoys them very much.
Three public lectures were delivered at Masonic Temple by Mme. Gita Orlova in October, who also spoke three times that month at the Bahá’í Center.
Fourteen group meetings and classes are held in Chicago and suburbs. Good contacts for Bahá’í speakers have been made with clubs and organizations, and in several cases club members have made special visits to the Temple in a group. A Temple model has been on display in a store window, where it has led to a large number of inquiries.
Including addresses given at the Temple, Mme. Orlova spoke at nine meetings arranged by the Chicago Assembly in October.
[Page 12]
In November the Wednesday noon
lectures were given by Howard Ives,
Mabel Ives, Ruth Moffett and Dr. Zia
Bagdadi. The series of Friday evening meetings were addressed by
Shahnaz Waite and Philip Marangello.
Numerous engagements were made for
Mme. Orlova to speak before clubs and
societies, and in addition Sarah Walrath addressed the Maywod Civic and
Charity Club at the Temple, Albert
Windust spoke at the Maude E. Smith
Social and Charity Club, Mabel Ives
addressed the members of the Woodstock Woman’s Club, Shahnaz Waite
filled an engagement made with the
Young Woman’s Auxiliary of the
Cicero Woman’s Club, and Edna Eastman spoke before the North Town
Woman’s Club.
On November 14 the Spiritual Assembly reported the enrollment of seven new believers, and on February 6 it reported that twenty-four more new believers had been enrolled. This is impressive evidence of spiritual capacity.
An interesting incident of Mme. Orlova’s public teaching activities in Chicago is that her address on “Crashing Worlds” was published in the October 26 issue of “The Executives’ Club News.”
Honolulu[edit]
A large increase has been made during recent months in the number of people attending the public meetings and study classes. The Spiritual Assembly has been effectively assisted by Loulie A. Mathews, who has spent about two months in the city prior to her departure on a special teaching journey to South America.
San Francisco[edit]
From “San Francisco Bahá’í News” the following items are here reported for the information of the entire Bahá’í community.
Two new members were announced in the September bulletin. A picnic was held on Labor Day at the Shriners’ Redwood Grove in the Santa Cruz Mountains, in development of the community social life.
Home meetings have been held in the following homes: Marshall, Shaw, Smith and Burland. The programs are so planned that different approaches are made possible, one meeting being an Esperanto class, one a study class for inquirers, another a class in Bahá’í administration.
Among speakers at the Sunday public meeting this year have been: Russell B. Fitz Patrick, Leroy Ioas, Walter W. Kawecki, Mary Burland, Anthony Y. Seto, Mme. Gita Orlova, N. Forsyth Ward, H. Hurlbut, P. S. Jones, Katherine Frankland, Charlotte M. Linfoot, Mamie Seto.
A meeting to celebrate the anniversary of the Master’s arrival at San Francisco was held on October 3.
On November 11 an Inter-Assembly teaching conference was held at the Y. W. C. A. building, the agenda having two items: The nine teaching suggestions contained in the last Annual Report of the National Teaching Committee; and discussion of these four subjects—Inter-Assembly Conferences every three months, true Bahá’í consultation, study of BAHÁ’Í NEWS, miscellaneous suggestions.
A list of places throughout California has been published where one or more believers reside, and all members of the San Francisco community who travel are requested to call on these isolated friends and if possible conduct a meeting. This excellent plan might well be followed by other Assemblies.
Los Angeles[edit]
Fifteen new enrollments have been reported by the Spiritual Assembly since October.
“Los Angeles Bahá’í News” is a very complete and well-arranged local bulletin. It quotes from recent letters from the Guardian, letters from the N. S. A., from special articles in the national BAHÁ’Í NEWS, and supplies the community with all announcements of meetings, guests from other cities, etc.
A recent issue reproduced an old record dated November 19, 1909 which established the first Bahá’í Assembly in that city: “The undersigned are hereby associated as members of the ‘Los Angeles Bahá’í Assembly’ for the purpose of promoting unity and harmony; of spreading the teachings of the Bahá’í Revelation,” etc. The first Executive Board of five members consisted of Chas. F. Haney, Thornton Chase, Rosa V. Winterburn, Henrietta C. Wagner and Nellie L. Phillips.
On September 10 the Assembly accepted with gratitude Mrs. Shaffer’s gift of an enlarged portrait of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.
Public meetings have been held Friday evenings, with addresses by the following teachers: Sara Witt, Dr. E. C. Getsinger, Elmor Duckett, Willard Hatch, L. A. Whitmore, Margaret Campbell, Marion Holley, Beulah Lewis, Nellie S. French, Oni A. Finks, Vira Jewell Paxton and Shahnaz Waite.
A study class in “The Dawn-Breakers” has been held Monday afternoons by Isobel Seifert, a children’s class on Sundays by Miss Koch, a class on “The Inner Significances,” by Mrs. E. Nickolson, an Esperanto class by Josephine Nelson.
A weekly course in Bahá’í administration has been carried out in twelve lessons, based upon a very complete outline which is recommended to the National Teaching or Outline Committee. Other classes have been held by P. W. Howard, Miss Holroyd and Loa Shaffer. A Race Amity Conference was held on November 15.
From other sources it is learned that Mrs. Orol Platt, of the Los Angeles Bahá’í community, has for seventeen years been a most generous contributor to the Tarbiat Schools. The rug-weaving department was in fact named “Orol Loom Department” in her honor.
Clara Weir has continued her activity for World Friendship, repeating her “Pageant of Nations” under the auspices of a Masonic Lodge. 110 public school pupils took part, with an orchestra of forty pieces. The Pageant was rendered before an audience of about 3000 people. Miss Weir now plans another Pageant promoting the ideal of World Order.
CALL FOR GREEN ACRE WORKERS[edit]
Believers who desire to work at Green Acre next summer in exchange for board and lodging are requested to communicate with Miss Helen Campbell, 204 West 55th Street, New York City. Early action is advisable.
