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PRE-CONVENTION NUMBER

[Page 1]

BAHA’I NEWS

Published by
The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís
of the United States and Canada
General Office: 130 Evergreen Place, West Englewood, New Jersey

No. 99

APRIL, 1936

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CONVENTION NOTICES

1. Time and place: Thursday, April 30; Friday, May 1; Saturday, May 2, 1936, at Foundation Hall, Bahá’í House of Worship, Wilmette, Illinois.
2. Convention Headquarters and Information Bureau: 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette.
3. Housing Committee: Mrs. Carl Hannen, c/o Information Bureau, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette. (This Committee will assist the friends to find suitable rooms in homes near the Temple. Friends who make reservations are asked not to cancel them at the last moment, unless for unavoidable reasons.)
4. Hotels in Evanston, at which the friends may make their own reservations: The Orrington, 1710 Orrington Avenue; The Georgian, 422 Davis Street; Evanston Hotel, 840 Forest Avenue; North Shore Hotel, 1611 Chicago Avenue; The Homestead, 1625 Hinman Avenue.
5. Convention Committees: Housing Committee—see above. Devotional Program—Dr. E. Lenore Morris, Mrs. H. A. Harding, Mrs. Beulah Brown. Ridvan Feast—Mrs. Dorothy Baker, chairman, members to be appointed by her. Refreshments will be served by the Spiritual Assemblies nearby the Temple.
6. Public Bahá’í Congress, 3:30 P. M., Sunday, May 3; “Bahá’u’lláh’s Message to a Chaotic Age.” Chairman, Albert Windust. Address on “Assurance for the Afflicted Heart”—Dorothy Baker. Address on “Order for a Troubled World”—Mountfort Mills.
7. Order of Business.

Convention sessions will be held from 9:30 A. M. to 1:00 P. M., from 2:00 P. M. to 5:30 P. M. and from 7:30 P. M. to 9:30 P. M. on Thursday, April 30 and Friday, May 1. The evening period on Saturday, May 2, will be devoted to the observance of the Ridvan Feast. The morning and afternoon sessions on Saturday will be business meetings of the Convention. The three morning sessions will be preceded by a devotional meeting in the Auditorium from 9:00 to 9:15 A. M.

1. Opening of Convention by Presiding Officer of the National Spiritual Assembly.
2. Roll Call of Delegates.
3. Election of Convention Officers.
4. Report of National Secretary.
5. Report of National Treasurer.
6. The National Bahá’í Fund, “the bedrock on which all other institutions must necessarily rest and be established.” Leader of discussion, Carl Scheffler.
7. Bahá’í Teaching, “the phase of concentrated teaching activity.” Leader of discussion, Leroy Ioas. (Note: the evening session of Thursday, April 30, will be devoted to consideration of the subject of Teaching.)
8. The Bahá’í Life, “the flame of the love of God.” Leader of discussion, Dr. E. Lenore Morris.
9. An Evolving World Order: the sacred character of Bahá’í institutions. Leader of discussion, Allen B. McDaniel.
10. Bahá’í Summer Schools, the beginning of the future University. Leader of discussion, Bertha Hyde Kirkpatrick.
11. Bahá’í Publicity: teaching through the press and by radio. Leader of discussion, Ruth Randall-Brown.
12. Race Amity: America’s most vital problem. Leader of discussion, Loulie A. Mathews.
13. Bahá’í Archives: the preservation of the Holy Text and Sacred Relics. Leader of discussion, Edwin W. Mattoon.
14. Bahá’í Trusteeships: Temple, Green Acre, Wilhelm, Malden House, Bosch. Leader of discussion, George O. Latimer.
15. Bahá’í Youth: the spirit of the Dawn-Breakers. Leader of discussion, Florence Mattoon.

Annual election: the election of members to the National Spiritual Assembly will be held at 2:00 P. M., Friday, May 1.

8. Ballots of absent delegates, and all messages intended for the Convention, should be sent to 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette.
9. Letters and communications on matters intended for the National Spiritual Assembly during the Convention period should be addressed (from April 25 to May 3) to that body at Hotel Orrington, Evanston, Ill.

PARTICIPATING BAHA’I COMMUNITIES

Twenty-Eighth Annual Convention

Participating Communities	Delegates
Phoenix, Arizona	1
Berkeley, California	1
Geyserville, California	1
Glendale, California	1
Los Angeles	4
Oakland, California	1
Pasadena, California	1
San Francisco, California	2

[Page 2]

Santa, Barbara, California	1
Montreal, Canada	1
Vancouver, B. C., Canada	1
Colorado Springs, Colorado	1
Denver, Colorado	1
New Haven, Connecticut	1
Washington, D. C.	3
Jacksonville, Florida	1
Miami, Florida	1
St. Augustine, Florida	1
Augusta, Georgia	1
Maui, Hawaii	1
Honolulu, Hawaii	1
Chicago, Illinois	8
Evanston, Illinois	1
Park Ridge, Illinois	1
Peoria, Illinois	1
Springfield, Illinois	1
Urbana, Illinois	1
Wilmette, Illinois	1
Winnetka, Illinois	1
Indianapolis, Indiana	1
South Bend, Indiana	1
Topeka, Kansas	1
Eliot, Maine	1
Baltimore, Maryland	1
Cabin John, Maryland	1
Boston, Massachusetts	2
Worcester, Massachusetts	1
Detroit, Michigan	1
Flint, Michigan	1
Lansing, Michigan	1
Muskegon, Michigan	1
Minneapolis, Minnesota	1
St. Paul, Minnesota	1
Kansas City, Missouri	1
Montclair, New Jersey	1
Newark, New Jersey	1
Teaneck, New Jersey	2
Binghamton, New York	1
Buffalo, New York	1
Geneva, New York	1
New York City, New York	7
Rochester, New York	1
Yonkers, New York	1
Akron, Ohio	1
Cincinnati, Ohio	1
Cleveland, Ohio	2
Columbus, Ohio	1
Lima, Ohio	1
Toledo, Ohio	1
Portland, Oregon	1
Philadelphia, Pa. .	1
Pittsburgh, Pa. .	1
Nashville, Tennessee	1
Monroe, Washington	1
Seattle, Washington	1
Spokane, Washington	1
Kenosha, Wisconsin	1
Milwaukee, Wisconsin	5
Racine, Wisconsin	1
	_____
Total	95

A PROCEDURE FOR THE CONDUCT OF THE ANNUAL BAHA’I CONVENTION

INTRODUCTION

The Guardian’s references to the Annual Convention have been compiled and published in two issues of BAHÁ’Í NEWS—November, 1933 and February, 1934.

I. THE ANNUAL BAHA’I CONVENTION

A summary of the constitutional basis of the Convention has been made by the National Spiritual Assembly and approved by the Guardian. It was published in Bahá’í News for April, 1935. Special reference is made to the seven numbered paragraphs in that summary.

II. CONVENTION CALL

The National Spiritual Assembly determines the date, duration and place of the Annual Convention and provides for such other meetings in connection with the Convention as it may feel are desirable.

III. CONVENTION PROCEDURE

The Twenty-sixth Annual Convention, held in 1934, voted a recommendation calling upon the National Spiritual Assembly to supply a parliamentary procedure for the conduct of the Annual Convention, and the present material has been prepared to meet the need indicated by that recommendation.

Order of Business

Prayer and devotional readings, provided by the outgoing National Spiritual Assembly.

Opening of Convention by Presiding Officer of the National Spiritual Assembly.

Roll call of delegates by the Secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly.

Election by secret ballot of Convention Chairman and Secretary. The Convention Officers are to be elected by the assembled delegates from among the entire number of delegates who are present at the Convention.

Annual Report of National Spiritual Assembly.

Annual Financial Report of National Spiritual Assembly.

Convention message to the Guardian of the Faith.

Annual Committee Reports: these are to be considered as part of the Report of the National Spiritual Assembly. They are whenever possible published in BAHÁ’Í NEWS in advance of the Convention date, for the information of the delegates.

Subjects for Consultation. Any delegate may, before the Convention convenes, recommend to the National Assembly such topics as he deems of sufficient importance to be included in the Convention agenda; and the National Spiritual Assembly, from the list of topics received from delegates, and also suggested by its own knowledge and experience, is to prepare an agenda or order of business as its recommendation to the Convention.

This agenda may include, as part of the National Assembly’s Annual Report, the presentation of special subjects by well qualified members, committee representatives or non-‎Baháí Bahá’í‎ experts whose exposition is necessary or desirable for the information of the delegates.

On motion duly made, seconded and voted, any such subject may be omitted, and also on motion duly made, seconded and voted, any other subject may be proposed for special consultation.

Annual election. The election of members of the National Spiritual Assembly is to take place approximately midway during the Convention sessions, so as to enable the delegates to consult with both the outgoing and incoming Assemblies, in accordance with the Guardian’s expressed desire.

Conduct of Business

Every deliberative body, to fulfill its functions, must conduct its deliberations in accordance with some established rules of order. The parliamentary procedure here set forth for the Convention is based upon the procedure already adopted for meetings of local Assemblies and communities. It accordingly extends to sessions of the Annual Convention the same procedure under which the delegates, in their other Bahá’í activities, are accustomed to conduct discussion and consultation.

The purpose of consultation at the Annual Convention is threefold: to arrive at full and complete knowledge of the current conditions, problems and possibilities of the Faith in America; to give to the incoming National Assembly the benefit of the collective wisdom, guidance and constructive suggestions of the assembled

[Page 3] delegates; and to contribute to the unity, in spirit and in action, of the entire American Bahá’í community.

The freedom of each and every delegate to take part in discussion and to initiate motions is untrammeled save as the undue activity of one delegate might hamper the rights of the other delegates. Any necessary limitation to be placed upon individual discussion shall be determined by the Chairman in the absence of any specific motion duly voted by the delegates themselves.

It shall be the duty of the Chairman to encourage general consultation and make possible the active participation of the greatest possible number of delegates.

The Chairman has the same power and responsibility for discussion and voting upon motions as other delegates. Members of the outgoing and incoming National Assembly who are not delegates may participate in the consultation but not vote.

A resolution, or motion, is not subject to discussion or vote until duly made and seconded. It is preferable to have each resolution clear and complete in itself, but when an amendment is duly made and seconded, the Chairman shall call for a vote on the amendment first and then on the motion. An amendment must be relevant to, and not contravene, the subject matter of the motion.

The Chairman shall call for votes by oral expression of ayes and nays, but where the result of the vote is doubtful by a show of hands or a rising vote. A majority vote determines.

Discussion of any matter may be terminated by motion duly made, seconded and voted, calling upon the Chairman to bring the matter to an immediate vote or proceed to other business.

The transactions of the Convention shall be recorded by the Secretary, and when certified by the Convention officers shall be given to the National Spiritual Assembly.

Annual Election

The electors in the Annual Election shall consist of those delegates included in the Roll Call prepared by the National Spiritual Assembly.

Ballots and tellers’ report forms shall be provided by the National Assembly.

The election shall be conducted by the Convention, but delegates unable to attend the Convention shall have the right to vote by mail.

The Chairman shall appoint three tellers, chosen from among the assembled delegates.

The electoral method shall be as follows:

1. The Convention Secretary shall call the roll of delegates, whereupon each delegate, in turn, shall place his or her ballot in a ballot box; and as the names are called ballots received by mail shall be placed in the ballot box by the Secretary of the National Assembly.
2. The ballot box shall then be handed to the tellers, who shall retire from the Convention Hall to determine the result of the election.
3. The result of the election is to be reported by the tellers, and the tellers’ report is to be approved by the Convention.
4. The ballots, together with the tellers’ report, certified by all the tellers, are to be given the National Spiritual Assembly for preservation.

IV. THE CONVENTION RECORD

The permanent record of each successive Annual Convention shall consist of the following:—(1) Convention Call as issued by the National Spiritual Assembly, including list of Participating Bahá’í Communities; (2) list of accredited delegates; (3) Annual Reports of the National Spiritual Assembly and of its Committees; (4) Messages sent to and received from the Guardian; (5) Resolutions and other transactions of the assembled delegates; (6) The result of the Annual Election.

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IN MEMORIAM

Death proffereth unto every confident believer the cup that is life indeed. It bestoweth joy, and is the bearer of gladness. It conferreth the gift of everlasting life.—BAHÁ’U’LLÁH.

Mrs. Kate Burke, Chicago.

Mrs. Carolyn Harbin, Miami Beach, Florida.

Mr. Maurice Cohen, New Haven, Connecticut.

Mrs. E. B. Bullock, San Francisco, California.

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ENROLLMENT OF NEW BELIEVERS

Reports from local Assemblies in recent months refer to the enrollment of new believers as follows: New York, thirteen; Honolulu, seven; Flint, seven; Lima, seven; Chicago, three; Los Angeles, three; Kansas City, three; Milwaukee, three; Kenosha, three; San Francisco, two; Boston, two; Worcester, two; Muskegon, two; Portland, one; Baltimore, one; Urbana, one.

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DECISIONS OF THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY

1. The transfer of believers involved in unfinished matters proceeding under the local Assembly’s jurisdiction is to be postponed pending a report of the circumstances to the National Assembly and its approval of the transfer.

The purpose of the above ruling is to make it possible for a local Spiritual Assembly to retain jurisdiction of a case until the matter is concluded. For example, if an Assembly is endeavoring to settle some difference between two believers, and knows all the circumstances of the case, but before a decision is made one of the believers moves to another city, where the Assembly is naturally uninformed of the problem, the believer who moves is not to be given a letter of transfer by his former Assembly until the National Assembly has opportunity to learn the circumstances and approve the time when the transfer can be made—when, in other words, the Assembly in the city where the believer has taken up his or her new residence is to exercise jurisdiction over the affairs of that believer.

2. The National Spiritual Assembly recommends that local Assemblies, as far as possible, fill out Bahá’í Historical Record Cards for believers who have died.

3. Local Spiritual Assemblies are requested to announce the following recommendation, and do their utmost to see that it is carried into effect:—that individual believers (and Assemblies themselves) who have in their possession original Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, with the necessary original translations, original letters of Shoghi Effendi, or other sacred records and objects, take steps to have them preserved in the Bahá’í Archives. The Guardian has said that the collection and publication of Tablets is one of the most important duties of this generation.

A definite date might be set, for example, a Nineteen Day Feast, when the friends could bring their Tablets for the local Assembly to transmit to the Archives ‎Commitee Committee‎. Those who send them direct should address them to Mrs. May Scheffler, Secretary, 1821 Lincoln Street, Evanston, Ill. It would be very appropriate if believers who attend the Convention should make a special point of bringing their Tablets with them for the Archives Committee. The Archives Committee can provide photostat copies at a very slight cost.

[Page 4] 4. Local Assemblies are advised to appoint an Archives Committee, the function of which would be to assist in having Tablets sent to the National Archives and also to develop a local Bahá’í Archives, which might contain photostat copies of Tablets from the Master and of letters from the Guardian received locally, and such other material as should be preserved for the history of the Bahá’í community.

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GREEN ACRE PROGRAM

Change of Dates

The Green Acre program as first announced reported that the Inn would be open on July 3. It is now reported that the Inn will be open only from August 1 to 31, with the Youth Week from August 1 to 7, the Summer School from August 10 to 21, the concluding week to have a Regional Teaching Conference and other activities to be announced later.

The complete program of Green Acre and also of the Schools at Geyserville and Louhelen Ranch will be reported as soon as possible.

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TEMPLE MEETINGS

The public meetings in Foundation Hall during January and February have been reported by the Temple Program Committee as follows:

January: Dr. Zia M. Bagdadi, “A New Year’s Greeting from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá”; Carl Scheffler, “A New World Order”; Dr. E. Lenore Morris, “Can Science and Religion Agree?”; Sarah Walrath, “What Should Religion Do for the Individual?” February: Mabel Ives, “The New Spiritual Renaissance”; Philip Marangella, “God and His Glory”; Dorothy Baker, “The Bible Understood”; Fanny Knobloch, “Searching for the Answer.”

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PUBLISHING ANNOUNCEMENTS

The following new discounts on Bahá’í literature ordered from the Publishing Committee are effective May 1, 1936.

10% to Spiritual Assemblies on orders of less than $10.00.

25% to Spiritual Assemblies on orders of $10.00 and more.

25% to individuals on orders of $25.00 or more, when the literature is intended for teaching purposes—that is, to be given away.

Please note that these discounts apply only on orders placed with the Publishing Committee, and do not apply on literature sold locally by the Assemblies. On local sales no discount should be given, because the purpose of the Publishing Committee’s discount is to enable local Assemblies to build up their Bahá’í Fund.

It should be explained further that Bahá’í literature is priced so low that the former discount prevented the ‎Commitee Committee‎ from developing its resources sufficiently to finance all the important new works as they become available.

The Committee would like to obtain two copies of “The Divine Art of Living” and will accept second hand copies if new copies are not available. If you have a copy which can be spared, please write to Bahá’í Publishing Committee, P. O. Box 348, Grand Central Annex, New York, N. Y.

The following titles are emphasized at this time:

Bahá’í Peace Program, bound in fabrikoid, $1.50. Bound in paper, $0.50.

Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Vols. I, II, and III, $2.00 per vol.

A Traveller’s Narrative, $2.50.

The Bahá’í Movement, sold only in lots of ten, ten for $1.00.

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BAHA’I YOUTH: ENROLL NOW!

Now that the “new hour has struck” in the history of the Bahá’í Cause, it is more than ever urgent to devise fresh ways and achieve a more vital spirit in the teaching work. Bahá’í youth must join in this great program, must add their own forces to hasten the approaching victory.

No young Bahá’í under twenty-one years of age, who is convinced of the destiny of this Faith, should remain outside the community life, for such non-participation of even one youth will weaken the Cause in that locality. Without further hesitation, therefore, let each young Bahá’í state to his Assembly his intention of becoming a voting believer. Such action will bring the privilege of attendance at Feasts. It will ensure for Bahá’í youth a full share and splendid contribution to the “nation-wide, systematic, sustained effort in teaching field” which is the next step towards our goal of a New World Order.

How many young Bahá’ís under twenty-one will be enrolled with their local Assemblies by Naw-Ruz? Would not a list of their names make an unequalled New Year’s gift for ‎Shogih Shoghi‎ Effendi?

YOUTH COMMITTEE.

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NEWS OF THE CAUSE

The Kenosha Assembly had a very successful lecture series during the first three weeks of January conducted by Dr. E. Lenore Morris.

The Los Angeles Assembly has taken a new headquarters in the Beaux Arts Building which are considered the best Bahá’í center yet maintained in that city.

During February the Baltimore Assembly arranged for an illustrated lecture by Allen B. McDaniel on “The Temple of Light” at Morgan College, and for the same lecture at the Central Branch of the Enoch Pratt Free Library.

The Portland Assembly calls attention to the article on the Temple written by Fred Young and published in the annual issue of The Minerologist, a magazine which goes to all leading educational ‎insitutions institutions‎ in America and to many foreign countries.

Roy C. Wilhelm has recently given two radio talks over WBNX, New York.

An interesting series of lectures was given at Spokane in February by Sylvia Matteson and Louise Caswell. The meetings were held in the Sun Life Assurance Auditorium.

Orcella Rexford is spending a few months in Mexico, and the friends can look forward to an interesting report of her teaching experiences. Her address for correspondence continues to be Fairmont Hotel, San Francisco.

Through the influence of Dr. William F. Slater, the magazine Women, of Chicago, some months ago published an illustration of the Temple, and is now running an article outlining the history and teachings of the Cause.

The Bahá’í group of Dayton, Ohio, is grateful to Dr. and Mme. Ali Kuli Khan, to Mrs. Marzieh Carpenter, to Miss Hamideh Khan and to Louis G. Gregory for their cooperation in teaching activities at Dayton during February.

The Detroit Assembly for some months has been sending seventy copies of World Order Magazine to people of capacity and influence in the city, as an excellent means of bringing the Cause to the attention of persons who cannot be attracted by public meetings.

Local Bahá’í News Letters are received regularly from the San Francisco, New York and Los Angeles Assemblies. The Vancouver Assembly began to issue a local Bahá’í News in July, 1935, in very impressive form. For the larger Bahá’í communities, a monthly summary of activities and program of meetings is a valuable and necessary contribution to the unity of the friends. In time, such organs will develop into newspapers appearing at

[Page 5] frequent intervals, and afford a firm basis for cooperative action.

The Cincinnati Assembly has reported on the teaching work done in that city by Dr. E. Lenore Morris, Ruhi Effendi Afnan, Mabel Ives, and Dr. and Mme. Khan, and mentioned anticipated visits from Louis G. Gregory and Mr. Agnew. The Assembly has conducted several series of lectures this year with the cooperation of the visiting believers.

A new Bahá’í Center was opened by the Cleveland Assembly early in February, the speaker being Mountfort Mills. The new center is at 665 Hippodrome Building.

The Chicago Assembly has carried on an interesting race amity activity consisting of meetings at which representatives of various local clubs are placed on the program with a Bahá’í speaker.

Beatrice Irwin gave a talk over the radio in Cleveland during November on the subject of “Haifa—The Wonder Spot of Palestine.”

A notice of the projected Memorial to the late Keith Ransom-Kehler at Isfahan appeared in the Vassar Quarterly of July, 1935, a copy of which has been sent in through the courtesy of Mrs. Randolph Bolles.

Sixteen different Fireside meetings are listed in a circular issued by the Chicago Assembly.

Over WEMP the Milwaukee Assembly has been conducting a series of radio talks.

Teaching activities of Dr. Ali Kuli Khan at Minneapolis and St. Paul last fall included an address on “The Bahá’í Principles of Peace” delivered at a meeting of the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom.

A children’s Bahá’í class at Yonkers taught by Mrs. Raymond Richards has been followed by another children’s class taught by Maud Gaudreaux, both of which have been very successful.

The Lehigh Review, published by the students of Lehigh University, had in its December, 1935 issue a two-page article entitled “Bahá’í,” by David Wendell Fentress, accompanied by an illustration of the Temple.

From Lima, Ohio, comes the report that the teaching activities this last autumn began with a three-day visit from Mme. Gita Orlova who spoke at large public meetings. About one hundred friends attended an Inter-Assembly meeting from Toledo, Dayton, Urbana, Columbus and Cincinnati. A monthly public meeting has been conducted through the winter at Argonne Hotel.

The activities of the Miami Assembly have included a Friday evening study class, a Tuesday evening Esperanto class, and public meetings when teachers are available. A new Bahá’í Center has been taken at 307 Congress Building.

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A CORRECTION

The article entitled “Memorials of the Faithful” published in The Bahá’í Magazine of February, 1934, was not a translation from text written by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá but was an article written by Mrs. Marzieh Carpenter.

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CHICAGO AND MID-WESTERN YOUTH ACTIVITIES

September 5th, Marion Holley sent a questionnaire concerning youth group activities to all of the Bahá’í communities in America. Out of the seventy-one assemblies, forty-nine answered the survey showing that there were twenty-eight organized youth groups. Twelve of these organized groups are in the middle-west. (This number includes Flint, Michigan, because almost all of the Assembly members are under twenty-five.) In the middle west, there are a number of isolated youth who have no opportunity to share in local youth group activities. We are trying to provide contact with other young Bahá’ís for these isolated Bahá’ís through a series of Round Robin letters and inter-Assembly conferences.

From the replies to this questionnaire, we find that there is no particular rule followed in the organization of the local youth groups. Some of the youth groups elect their own chairman and other officers (with the approval of the L. S. A.). In other Bahá’í communities the officers of the youth group are appointed by the L. S. A. In the survey it was found that many young Bahá’ís have not availed themselves as they should, of the right and privilege to attend Bahá’í Feasts. The meetings held for and by young Bahá’ís in the central area include Sunday schools, fireside groups where non-Bahá’ís are free to express their own viewpoints (Bahá’ís lead the discussion and always take the Bahá’í viewpoint, of course), meetings planned especially for interested non-believers, and study groups for Bahá’í youth. In most places these groups meet once a week, but the occurrence of the meetings varies from twice a month to twice a week. Some of the groups set aside a certain night a week or month when they have social get-togethers.

Most of the youth groups in the middle-west use the Study Outline. Some are studying the “Gleanings” and others are reading the “Promulgation of Universal Peace.” Other groups have an adult speaker at each meeting who leads the discussion after his talk.

One of the main difficulties seems to be in making contacts with other young people. Some of the organizations with which contacts have been made are church groups, the Y. M. C. A. and Y. W. C. A., World Fellowship Groups, International Clubs, Esperanto Clubs, and an Urban League. In most of the cities where there are youth groups we find that the young people do take an active interest in the activities of the local Assembly. In Chicago the youth group has taken charge of some of the feasts and some of the Friday evening public meetings. Many young people are serving on committees, such as, the Teaching, Amity, Sunday School, Publicity, and Archives committees. In Peoria, the Youth Group undertook the interesting project of making a map of Persia showing important places and happenings in Bahá’í history.

The young people of the middle west have attended several inter-Assembly conferences. In the early part of September, the youth of Chicago and the North Shore acted as hosts to the young Bahá’ís of Flint, Michigan; Detroit, Michigan; Urbana, Illinois; Peoria, Illinois; Toledo, Ohio, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Another conference was held later in the month at Peoria with the purpose of beginning a youth group in that city. By far the largest and most far-reaching inter-youth group contact is that gained at the Youth ‎Couference Conference‎ at Louhelen Ranch, Davison, Michigan. Plans for the 1936 Youth Conference are already being made under the chairmanship of Wilfrid Barton of Winnetka, Illinois. In a letter to the Youth Council of the Central States Summer School, Shoghi Effendi said, “The work in which you are engaged is dear and near to my heart and constitutes one of the most vital aspects of the manifold activities of our beloved Faith. The highest standards of purity, of integrity, of detachment and sacrifice must be maintained by the members of your group in order to enable you to play a decisive part in the spread and consolidation of the Faith. A tremendous responsibility has been laid upon you, and nothing short of a pure, a virtuous, an active and truly exemplary life can enable you to fulfil your high destiny. I will pray that you may be guided and strengthened to render the most ef-

[Page 6] fective service to the Cause and by your example lend a fresh impetus to the onward march of its new-born institutions.”

FLORENCE C. MATTOON,

National Youth Com., Sec. of Mid-west.

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AN ASSEMBLY OF YOUNG PEOPLE

The Local Spiritual Assembly in Flint, Michigan, is perhaps unique in America for it was organized by and at first composed of young people. In September, 1935, Clarence La Rocque, secretary, wrote to the Bahá’í Youth Committee this account: “We have not felt a need for a special youth committee as our Flint Bahá’í Assembly is made up entirely of young people, except for one member who has just been elected to the Assembly to fill a vacancy.... Being a small community, we have set no age limits, because the three young people who exceed the age of twenty-five years, by two or three years, are quite naturally a part of the youth group. There are nine Bahá’ís who are between the ages of twenty-one and twenty-five.” A second letter was received in November: “Recently we added six new believers to our community, which brings the total resident believers to eighteen. God is good, and Bahá’u’lláh lives, today and always!”

In Flint the exhilaration which is felt in those words has been translated into thrilling motion. A dozen plans of teaching are used; there are afternoon and evening study classes; each week at least one open discussion is scheduled “where anyone is welcome to give his viewpoint in exchange for ours”; on Saturday night the community joins in recreation; nationally known teachers are invited to assist, and for them “we arrange public meetings, group meetings, and private consultations, ahead of time so that there is a definite program to fill in every hour of their stay.” This wide scope of activity bespeaks a vitality and singleness of purpose which will teach the Cause around the world!

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ANNUAL COMMITTEE REPORTS

ANNUAL SOUVENIR OF ‘ABDU’L-BAHA

First: The committee wishes to express its appreciation to the five Bahá’í Communities (New York, Yonkers, Newark, Montclair and Teaneck) for their active participation in the 24th Annual Meeting to commemorate the “Unity Feast” established by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, June 29, 1912.

Some interesting facts in connection with this important occasion will be of interest to all of the friends. One year after the establishment of this “Unity Feast,” ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, in a letter to Mr. Roy C. Wilhelm, gave this annual meeting its permanent name in the following extract; “Thy letter dated July 3, 1913, was received. Its contents indicated the firmness and steadfastness of the believers of God and told of holding a divine meeting in your radiant, charming country place. Praise be to God! that that day was spent in the utmost joy and happiness. That Annual Memorial Meeting will be the Souvenir of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, especially when it is passed with infinite delight and gladness.” ‎Truely Truly‎, each meeting since has passed with infinite delight and gladness and this picturesque and delightful gathering continues to attract large numbers of the believers and interested friends (usually between three and five hundred people) to witness and enjoy this noble example of what true unity will accomplish.

During 1933 the Spiritual Assembly of Teaneck established through the confirmation of several friends, who were present during the original feast given by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the approximate spot where He stood in giving that memorable address on Unity. These several friends were Roy C. Wilhelm and his mother, Mrs. Florian Krug and Mrs. E. Magee. Then during the feast of this year all the friends who were present at the original feast were asked to sign a prepared statement. This statement with several other objects such as a newspaper, photograph, etc., were sealed in a copper box and this box was imbedded in concrete at the spot where ‘Abdu’l-Bahá stood and a suitable dedication ceremony held.

Until this year this Annual Meeting was handled mainly by the friends at West Englewood. The next year, 1934, the New York Spiritual Assembly brought to the attention of the National Spiritual Assembly the original status of this feast and its importance. From this suggestion the National Spiritual Assembly appointed the National Committee for the Annual Souvenir of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. During this same year Shoghi Effendi brought to the attention of the National Spiritual Assembly the importance of this gathering and they passed the information on to the committee as follows: “The members of your committee will be interested to learn that in one of his recent letters, Shoghi Effendi has referred to the feast given by the Master at West Englewood as being of such significance that eventually a memorial is to be constructed on that spot, but that memorials are not to be constructed in connection with any other meeting held by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in America. In other words, the memorial of the Master’s visit to America will in the future be located on the spot where He held the Unity Feast in June, 1912.”

The commemoration in the past was conducted by the friends gathering on the grounds for a picnic lunch. This prepared them to spend the day so that they could enjoy the afternoon and evening programs. The program is arranged with music, the reading of the address given by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, which is followed by several short talks from prominent speakers upon various phases of World Order. The evening program follows the same line, except that one general address is given to follow up and correlate the discussion of the afternoon. The Teaneck Spiritual Assembly furnishes its amplifying equipment for the occasion so that the program which is held out doors may be heard.

In 1934 the committee changed the usual practice of holding individual picnic lunches. A booth was arranged where the friends could secure a hot lunch and light refreshments at a nominal cost. This first effort pleased the friends and received their hearty approval, though it fell short of the actual demands and need for greater efficiency. This year the committee had several large folding tables made, each 16 feet long, which were decoratively set among the pine trees. The booth was arranged in cafeteria style. Each friend received a check at the entrance, which was punched as items of food were chosen, and payment was made at the exit. This method overcame the confusion of last year. Nearly 600 purchases were made at the booth and the booth committee reported that they could have served about 100 more dinners. After payment of all expenses, approximately $75.00 was turned over to the National Bahá’í Fund. The Committee feels that this part of the memorial meeting

[Page 7] is very important for creating the spirit of fellowship and unity among the friends.

AFTERNOON PROGRAM

MUSIC by Harriet Morgan Kelsey—Mr. Chauncey Northern.

READING Address by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá—by Mrs. Shirley Warde.

SYMPOSIUM ON: “Security for a Failing World.”

SPEAKERS: Mr. Mountfort Mills, Dr. Masujima (International lawyer), Miss Mary Maxwell of Montreal, Mrs. Florian Krug of New York, Prof. R. F. Piper of Syracuse University, and Roy C. Wilhelm, chairman.

EVENING PROGRAM

MUSIC

ADDRESS Subject: “The Promise of All Ages,” by Mr. James Morton, Jr., Curator of Paterson Museum.

CHAIRMAN Miss Mary Maxwell.

To further create the atmosphere and spirit of the Master’s visit, a number of the friends who were present during ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit acted as hosts and hostesses for the friends. This effort was very pleasing.

The Teaneck Spiritual Assembly arranged an attractive display of Bahá’í literature and quite a number of books were sold during the day.

As the “Annual Souvenir of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá” is to bring out the significance and importance of His visit to America, all helpful suggestions from the friends to make the occasion more attractive will be very welcome.

CURTIS KELSEY, Chairman

WM. DE FORGE

EDWIN WILBUR

PHILIP SPRAGUE

OPHELIA CRUM

BERTHA HERKLOTZ

FRANK DEATS

CARRIE KINNEY

GRACE KRUG

TEMPLE PROGRAM

The ‎pupose purpose‎ of this committee is to have charge of all public meetings that are held in the Bahá’í House of Worship, except such meetings as are under the direct supervision of the National Spiritual Assembly itself, at the time of the Convention, etc. Its chief duty is to provide speakers at the public meetings. Under its direction a guide service for casual visitors to the building is organized during the summer months. The believers volunteer and regularly devote certain days of each week to this service. During the past year this work was under the general supervision of Mrs. Corinne True.

The public meetings in the House of Worship are being held in Foundation Hall every Sunday afternoon at 3:30 P. M. The local speakers during the past year have been:

Dr. Zia Bagdadi

Mrs. Mabel Ives

Mr. Howard Ives

Miss Fanny Knobloch

Mme. Barry Orlova

Mr. Philip Marangella

Mr. Carl Scheffler

Mrs. Corinne True

Mrs. Sarah Walrath

Mr. Albert Windust

The visiting speakers were:

Ruhi Afnan Effendi

Mrs. Dorothy Baker

Dr. Ali-Kuli Khan

Dr. E. Lenore Morris

Before the break of this rather severe winter the attendance at the afternoon sessions was very good. Since then, however, there has been a very decided dropping off, due in part to the extreme weather conditions, and also to the fact that the committee was forced, because of lack of funds, to discontinue advertising the meetings. The National Spiritual Assembly have only recently again authorized this expenditure. The hope now is that with the coming of brighter days of Spring this advertising will again bring great numbers to hear the Message.

On October 26th and 27th, under the direction of the National Spiritual Assembly, a general conference of believers was held, particularly members of Spiritual Assemblies from the Central States. It was our special privilege to have Ruhi Afnan Effendi with us at that time. He spoke to the assembled believers on the 26th and to the public on the afternoon of the 27th at the regular Sunday meeting. He addressed the largest audience that was ever assembled at the Bahá’í House of Worship. The reports of the ushers were that hundreds had to be turned away because of lack of seating capacity.

The major Feasts of our Faith are celebrated in the House of Worship, the communities of this vicinity all contributing. As a general rule the preparation of both the spiritual and material Feasts is undertaken by one or a group of local Assemblies.

During this past year an attempt was made to found a Sunday School in the House of Worship for children whose parents were attending the regular afternoon meeting. Lack of attendance, however, due no doubt to the extreme weather conditions, forced discontinuance. This Sunday School was under the direction of Mrs. Howard Ives, assisted by Miss Eve Nicklin, Mrs. Inez B. Ford and Mrs. Philip Marangella.

As promised by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá the Bahá’í House of Worship is proving to be an increasingly important center of attraction. During the past year 43 clubs and organizations, totalling 2,126 people, visited there. Visits of such organizations are generally prearranged and speakers are provided by the Committee. After the address the public is divided into groups and they are conducted through the building by a group of believers who are acting as guides. The success of this work is due largely to the Chicago Spiritual Assembly’s Teaching Committee who have a special sub-committee particularly devoted to arranging contacts with organizations in their vicinity. Mrs. Nina Matthisen is the chairman of this committee. Not including those before mentioned, approximately 12,579 people visited the House of Worship since last March.

The believers acting as guides find the service of meeting these people and conducting them ‎though through‎ the building, to be most interesting. They come from everywhere, from all parts of the globe and from all walks of life. The general feeling is that such visitors are very much impressed by the beauty of the structure and the Message, when given to them in the course of their trip through the building, usually finds them open-minded and receptive. No one can estimate the importance of this kind of seed-planting under these most favorable conditions. Perhaps the most outstanding element in this is the demonstration, devotion and unity presented by the small group of Bahá’ís in the erection of this Mashriq-ul-Adhkár.

CARL SCHEFFLER, Chairman

MARGARITE ULLRICH, Secretary

A. W. BARTHOLOMEW

ENOS L. BARTON

EDRIS CARSON

MONROE IOAS

DR. R. O. PETTET

CORINNE TRUE

SARAH WALRATH

---

UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE

A new group of Bahá’í Esperantists was formed this Fall in Augusta, Ga., a class of nine members, who are making very good progress with the language.

The New York City class has been unusually successful this year, both as to numbers and progress of the pupils.

The Secretary of this Committee addressed the New York Esperanto

[Page 8] Society at their Zamenhof Barĉo in December, giving a few items in the very interesting experience that Mrs. Erickson had in Sweden this summer; and reading a letter from Miss Josephine Kruka outlining her work with the young people in Washington, thus informing the Esperantists of the use that the Bahá’ís are making of the language.

The Committee has addressed Miss Martha Root, Miss Lydia Zamenhof and the International Bahá’í Bureau, asking for suggestions as to how the American Bahá’í Esperantists can be of use in the European field. They have also informed the Central Office of the Universala Esperanta Asocio, in Geneva, that their committee is in existence and can be referred to for any service desired.

JAMES F. MORTON, Chairman

ADELLA QUINLAN

JOSEPHINE KRUKA

INDEX

The work of the Index Committee has been carried on this year largely along the lines outlined by the committee last year. The plan is to make rather simple indexes of the Sacred Writings of Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and the World Order Letters of Shoghi Effendi and then combine them into one general index which may be made available in print. Technically speaking this is a catalogue rather than index as we find an index as defined technically is too detailed to be practicable just now. This will not include compilations.

The index of “Some Answered Questions” has been completed by Miss Gretchen Westervelt. Also “Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh” and “Promulgation of Universal Peace” have indexes printed with them. Work is being done on “Kitab-i-Iqán,” “The Wisdom of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá,” The “World Order” Letters of Shoghi Effendi. BAHÁ’Í NEWS is being indexed to date by Mrs. Stebbins. We have in hand indexes of “Hidden Words” and “Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá” which had been done previously and kindly lent to the committee. The “Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh” are also assigned for indexing.

No work has as yet been done on “Divine Philosophy,” “Three Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh,” “Epistle to the Son of a Wolf,” “The Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh,” “Mysterious Forces of Civilization.”

We find that we have among Bahá’ís a few trained cataloguers and these have offered their services in this work. We express our gratitude to them and to all who have aided in this most essential work by sending indexes, offering help or cooperating in any way.

ESTHER G. HARDING, Chairman

BERTHA H. KIRKPATRICK, Sec’y.

ANNA KUNZ

J. V. MATTESON

MABEL H. PAINE

MRS. JOEL STEBBINS

ARCHIVES

So far as is known this universal cycle of Bahá’u’lláh is the first dispensation in human history in which copies of the Holy Utterances can be referred for their authenticity to the original, signed Writings of the Manifestation Himself. Many of the original manuscripts of these Writings, both of the Báb and the Bahá’u’lláh are now contained in the International Bahá’í Archives.

The Interpreter of these Sacred Writings, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, has written many, many Tablets, literally hundreds and thousands of which were addressed to American believers, explaining and exemplifying these Holy Utterances. Of these Tablets the Master has said, “... each leaflet from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá will be a widespread book,” while the Guardian has indicated that the work of collecting and publishing the Tablets is one of the most important duties of the present generation. He emphasizes the fact that, “... only Tablets with the Master’s signature and in the original tongue should be recognized.”

In the further elucidation and application of the written Word, and in the cultivation of the young garden of the Administrative Order of the Faith, so lovingly planted on the American continent by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the Guardian has written numerous letters to National and Local Spiritual Assemblies, and very many messages to individual believers. Almost all of these letters are still in the hands of the believers and the communities to whom they were addressed. Relatively few have, as yet, been forwarded for preservation to the National Bahá’í Archives.

Since the work of collecting and publishing the Master’s Tablets was begun years ago, many of these precious documents in the form of the original, signed manuscripts or Tablets, totalling approximately 1,250 at present, have been graciously donated by their recipients to the National Archives. It is probable, however, that less than half of the Tablets addressed to American believers have been placed in the Archives.

Does it not follow from the above evident facts that the American Bahá’ís should unitedly exert an effort to preserve for posterity all the writings directed to the friends of this land by the Master and the Guardian, each of whom is the sole interpreter for His day of the Sacred Utterances!

The ‎commitee committee‎ is happy to report that among the Bahá’í Assemblies and groups to which Tablets were addressed by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the following communities have placed these original Tablets in the Archives; Baltimore, Brooklyn, Chicago, Cleveland, Denver, Fruitdale, Fruitport, Green Acre, Jersey City, Kenosha, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, New York, Philadelphia, Santa Barbara, Santa Paula, Seattle, Urbana and Washington, D. C. The originals of the fourteen Teaching Tablets (of the Divine Plan), of Tablets directed to the Bahá’í Temple Unity, and of a number of other general Tablets are also on file in the Archives.

Among the Tablets in the American Archives addressed to communities in other lands are a number to friends in Manchester, England, in Stuttgart, Germany and in Poona, India. An order for facsimile or photostatic copies of thirty-three original Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and twenty-one original letters of Shoghi Effendi was recently filled for the Spiritual Assembly of Poona.

It is suggested that local Spiritual ‎Asemblies Assemblies‎ of the United States and Canada order facsimiles of Tablets and letters of the Guardian directed to their respective communities, and that these be used as a foundation for the building up of local Bahá’í Archives.

EDWIN W. MATTOON, Chairman

MRS. CARL SCHEFFLER, Secretary

WILFRID C. BARTON

FREE LITERATURE

The Committee is pleased to report that during this past year five manuscripts have been reviewed and accepted by the National Spiritual Assembly for publication in the series of free literature pamphlets.

The following pamphlets are now available from the Bahá’í Publishing Committee:

1. Homoculture—Principles of Bahá’í Education

By Stanwood Cobb.

2. The Most Great Peace

By Marion Holley

3. The Oneness of Mankind

By Hussein Rabbani

4. The Path to God

By Dorothy Baker

These pamphlets are printed at the lowest possible cost as a help to trav-

[Page 9] elling teachers and local assemblies for distribution at public meetings and for mailing to special lists. They are sold at $1.50 for 100 copies net, a cost so low that every believer should have a supply on hand to give to the sincere seeker.

The fifth in this series, The Bahá’í House of Worship—An Institution of the New World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, by Genevieve L. Coy, appears in the Bahá’í World, Volume V. and will be reprinted by Convention time. This pamphlet will contain illustrations of the Temple and should be used extensively.

The committee wishes to call attention to the shorter leaflet, “The World Religion” —A Summary of its Aims, Teachings and History, by Shoghi Effendi. This leaflet is sold in lots of 100 for $1.00 and is the finest concise statement on the Bahá’í Faith.

Other manuscripts on the Influence of Religion and the Social-Economic Teachings are in preparation. The Committee will welcome any further suggestions for subject matter, that has a universal appeal, to be added to this series.

The Guardian has again emphasized the fact that as we have entered “the phase of concentrated teaching activity .... an effort unexampled in its scope and sustained vitality is urgently required so that the moving spirit of its Founder may permeate and transform the lives of the countless multitudes that hunger for its teachings.” It is our hope that these new teaching pamphlets will be widely used to help appease that hunger.

GEORGE LATIMER, Chairman

LOUISE CASWELL

BRAILLE TRANSCRIPTION FOR THE BLIND

The work of transcribing the Bahá’í literature into Braille books for the blind is steadily going on even in the face of the much discussed “Talking Book” which upon investigation proves not to promise to supplant the Braille writing as the reproducing machine is too expensive for general use and also all books of reference would have to be written and made more permanent than the “Talking Book” permits.

The most notable achievement this year has been the hand-tooling of the “Book of Iqán,” a work consisting of 427 Braille pages made for the Guardian by Mrs. Constance Rodman of Batavia, New York. Besides this work Mrs. Rodman has transcribed the pamphlets on “Bahá’í Economics”—88 pages—and excerpts from the “World Economy of Bahá’u’lláh,” by Mr. Holley. These last two were sent to a blind Bahá’í friend in Cleveland, Ohio.

From our other faithful Bahá’í Braillist, Miss Ella Quant of Schenectady, we have to report the transcription of “Divine Philosophy,” “Hidden Words” and “Words of Wisdom,” “Prayers” and “Bahá’í Teachings on Economics.” All of the books have been sent to the Director of the Braille Department of the Library of Congress for binding and except in certain particular cases the Department has placed our books in various Braille circulating Libraries throughout the United States. We have endeavored to ascertain a list of the cities where these books have been sent but so far have not been successful. When this is known we hope to send a list to the BAHÁ’Í NEWS LETTER so that the friends in each city may seek to establish further relation with the Braille readers.

Some of the transcriptions of this committee have been sent to Vienna to one of the friends there and we have supplied Mr. Thilander of Stocksund, Sweden, with several copies also. The friends should bear in mind that the “Book of Iqán” and “Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era” are in all the large Braille Libraries in the United States and that the members of the Braille Clubs in these cities would be apt to have read them. We suggest therefore that some effort be made to contact these readers.

The encouragement which the Guardian has offered to this Committee and the appreciation which he has expressed to the members for the Braille books which have been sent him at his request has been the source of deep gratitude and satisfaction. To a member of this committee Shoghi Effendi writes:

“I am deeply appreciative of your recent service and wish to urge you to persevere in this notable and promising field of Bahá’í activity. I will pray for your success from the bottom of my heart. Persevere and do not feel discouraged however great the obstacles that may confront you in the days to come.”

In the section of the letter written by the secretary of the Guardian he says: “He, (Shoghi Effendi) wishes me particularly to express the hope that through your efforts for the transcription of Bahá’í literature into Braille for the blind you may be given a good opportunity to open new fields of teaching for the Cause. He wishes you continued success in your labors in this connection and is praying to Bahá’u’lláh to sustain and guide you in your endeavors for the promulgation of His message among the blind.”

Your committee desires to express the hope that ere long many more Braille transcribers may arise to assist in this very important branch of the teaching work. For all those who are unable to engage in active outside teaching work there is no greater means of serving than transcribing the Holy Utterances into Braille for the blind.

MRS. S. W. FRENCH, Chairman

ELLA QUANT

MRS. SAMUEL RODMAN

CENTRAL STATES SUMMER SCHOOL

In accordance with the counsel of the Guardian that we extend the scope of the summer school, the committee arranged for three sessions for the season of 1935 rather than the two of previous summers. A four-day youth session was held the last of June under the leadership of Mrs. Dorothy Baker with the following daily morning program:

Devotions: Mrs. Baker.

Bahá’í Approach to World Problems, Ruth Randall-Brown.

The Bahá’í Life, Mrs. Baker.

Forum on “World Order” Letters of Shoghi Effendi, conducted by the young people.

The afternoons were free for sports, recreation or informal group discussions. Many found their greatest inspiration in the unannounced discussions that grew up spontaneously in a group of four or five. The evening programs were arranged by the young people and were inspiring and helpful.

Before they left the young people appointed a committee from among the Chicago young people to consult in regard to next summer’s session and make recommendations or suggestions to this committee. Their suggestions have been found most helpful to this committee and we have been able to follow them quite largely.

Dr. E. Lenore Morris assisted Mrs. Baker as general counselor and advisor. Fifty-seven young people attended besides about thirty visitors.

A nine-day general session (June 29-July 7) followed the youth session at which 55 were registered. An unusually high spiritual and scholarly standard was maintained in each of the following courses and they dovetailed into each other as though they had been worked out in consultation:

Devotions (based on Seven Valleys).

[Page 10]

The Conduct of Bahá’í Affairs, Horace Holley.

The Bahá’í Life, Mamie L. Seto.

Security in a Failing World, Stanwood Cobb.

In both this session and the youth session Madame Orlova was a great aid and inspiration in the afternoon and evening talks which she gave. These were designed for the general public and those who knew little of the Cause.

At both this session and the youth session Dale S. Cole of the Teaching Committee conducted a teaching conference. These were most helpful in developing a better understanding of the needs and methods in spreading the Cause.

The third session, held August 1925, had a smaller attendance but was exceedingly worth while. About twenty were registered, but many came daily from the nearby city of Flint so that some forty or fifty people were reached during this session, making a total of some 275 reached during the three sessions. The daily program was:

Devotions, conducted by different believers.

Foundations of the New World Order, Carl Scheffler.

The Origins and Powers of Man, Dr. E. Lenore Morris.

Public afternoon talks and varied evening programs were carried out as in the other two sessions. The presence of Mrs. True gave especial inspiration for she shared with us her recent experiences at Haifa and messages from Shoghi Effendi. One evening was devoted to a Temple program at which she and Mr. Scheffler spoke. This resulted in a free-will offering for the Temple fund. A contribution had been sent in from the other general session also.

More publicity was given to the school this summer than before. A fine feature article in the Flint Journal is worthy of special mention. The school has made a very definite connection with the city of Flint and two or three carloads of people came out every day to the school. A vigorous and growing Bahá’í community is developing in Flint because of the school. To the young people of this group the school is much indebted for their activity and help.

Besides these sessions the school is open throughout the season to casual inquirers or to those who wish to spend a quiet vacation, or to Bahá’í groups for a day’s outing. It is the hope that more and more this will be a center from which there is a constant flow of the spirit and teachings of Bahá’u’lláh. Plans are well under way for the three sessions for the summer of 1936.

L. W. EGGLESTON, Chairman

BERTHA HYDE KIRKPATRICK, Secretary

DOROTHY BAKER

BISHOP BROWN

DALE S. COLE

STUDY OUTLINES

The study course in Bahá’í Administration reported nearing completion last year was held up at the request of the Secretary of the National Assembly to await the impending publication of important administrative material. The outline was completed in the fall and has recently been issued by the Publishing Committee.

At present there are two outlines under way: one on Creative Writing and one on Public Speaking. Both are designed to be of practical value to Bahá’ís in teaching work. These outlines are being compiled by Mrs. Doris McKay, who will also conduct correspondence courses in connection with them after they have been published. We hope they will be completed in time for use next fall.

MARY COLLISON

MARGUERITE FIROOZI

DORIS MCKAY

CONTACTS

Attached hereto is a statistical report, unfortunately incomplete, of the work done by the National Contacts Committee during the year 1935-36. Though incomplete, it compares favorably with the results obtained last year, at a cost to the National Fund about one-half as great as that required to cover the expenditures of the Committee a year ago. This is gratifying indeed, and is attributable to the generosity of committee members in personally assuming the expenses involved in carrying on the work of the Committee. As the method of procedure and aims of the Committee were fully explained in the report submitted a year ago, that will not be repeated here.

From Canada comes the report that letters and literature have been sent to “The premiers, lieutenant-governors, ministers of education in each province, as well as editors of newspapers, magazines, etc., principals of the leading colleges of each province, a few radio lecturers and lecturers reported in the newspapers.” Surely such a group comprises those types of individuals, leaders of government, thought and education, which it is so important to acquaint with the message of Bahá’u’lláh in these troubled days.

Those members of the Committee working in the United States have directed their activities along the same channels, and the responses have been stimulating indeed. A few quotations from replies might be interesting. A Chinese correspondent states: “I am happy indeed to realize that in such a troubled world we have spirits in different countries who are working towards a great end for the welfare of all humanity.” An American clergyman on the Pacific Coast writes: “Year by year the thought of the world comes nearer to an appreciation of the Bahá’í Revelation. I personally feel the profoundest joy and gratitude that such a world-wide spiritual message has been given, and I truly bless all Bahá’ísts for I believe their message will come fully into its own as the message for an age ripe and ready to receive.” A professor in an eastern educational institution writes: “I shall add them (Bahá’í booklets) to our institution of world affairs library.” A Connecticut gentleman expresses himself thus: “I cannot see how any follower of Jesus Christ can dissent from the views of Shoghi Effendi in his ‘The Goal of a New World Order’... I have read some sixty pages of ‘Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era’ and can but marvel that such universal principles appropriate to modern conditions should come out of Persia.” From a professor at Northwestern University at Evanston, Illinois: “I have of course, been long acquainted with this (Bahá’í movement) but I am always glad to have additional information regarding it.” Out of this contact developed an opportunity for Ruhi Effendi Afnan to address this professor’s class at the University. Two directors of radio broadcasts in the Central States responded, out of one of which radio publicity for the Cause may develop. The Librarian of a Mid-Western university writes: “We are interested in every phase of activity which affects religious, social or political conditions. We are pleased to have this addition to our collection on the various religions now extant in this country.”

Statements such as the foregoing definitely point out the trend of modern thought, and the dawning realization that only through the power of the word of God can peace be restored to a strife-torn world.

[Page 11]

SOPHIE LOEDING, Chairman

LUCY MARSHALL

ETHEL REVELL

SYLVIA PARMELEE

ROSEMARY SALA

PUBLISHING

The work of the Publishing Committee in the manufacturing and distributing of Bahá’í Literature has progressed satisfactorily during the year and although we should have liked to see a very substantial increase in the sale of books, we do not feel that we should be discouraged over the results.

For the year ending March 1, 1936, we have sold and distributed:

9,152 books

40,221 pamphlets

765 outlines

In addition to the above, the year’s sales of “The Dawn-Breakers” brings the totals to March 1st to 1,335 copies Standard edition, 133 copies Limited edition.

This means that there are only seventeen copies now available of the Limited Edition and we do hope that the friends will take advantage of this opportunity of owning a book, which in the years to come will be beyond price.

The Western Division continues to function most satisfactorily and the sales of books show an increase over the previous year. This is due to the valued help and cooperation of Mrs. Emma Smith and we feel privileged to have such an efficient co-worker in the West.

The two important contributions to the literature this year are “Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh” published in October, 1935, and “The Bahá’í World” Volume V, which was published in February, 1936 after many unavoidable delays.

Of the “Gleanings” the Guardian through his secretary wrote, “He feels deeply grateful to you and to your co-workers in the Publishing Committee for the splendid efforts you have so successfully exerted for the production of this volume, the circulation of which he hopes will highly reinforce and enrich the teaching labors of the American friends. May its rapid sale also help to increase the fund of the Publishing Committee and thus enable it to proceed with the printing of other Bahá’í works.”

The Guardian has always emphasized the fact that the Publishing Committee should be self-supporting but we have not really come up to this standard. We must ask for assistance from the National Spiritual Assembly when bringing out the expensive books such as “The Dawn-Breakers” and “The Bahá’í World”. We have not wanted to increase the selling price of the books and yet when a volume of over 700 pages, printed as is “The Bahá’í World” Volume V. with its many illustrations, handsomely printed frontispieces, map, genealogies, etc., is sold for $2.50, and less the one-third discount, we have been allowing the local Assemblies, it is quite obvious that it is being sold below cost.

This question of discounts has been carefully studied. We have felt that with the limited editions we print, which means a high manufacturing cost, we cannot continue to allow the one-third to the local Assemblies. The National Spiritual Assembly therefore passed a ruling at their meeting in February, 1936 as follows:

Discounts to be allowed, authorized by the National Spiritual Assembly, these discounts to supersede all previous discounts and to take effect on May 1, 1936:

10% to Assemblies on orders of less than $10.00.

25% to Assemblies on orders of $10.00 or more.

25% to individuals on orders of $25.00 or more when the literature is intended for teaching purposes.

The Publishing Committee has been manufacturing literature under the following headings:

1—Regular Bahá’í Literature, consisting of the words of Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and Shoghi Effendi.

2—Books written on the Cause by believers.

3—Pamphlets, outlines, etc., especially for teaching purposes.

The item for teaching literature has been a heavy expense and we made the suggestion recently to the National Spiritual Assembly that we should only be responsible for the publishing and financing of standard Bahá’í works, The National Spiritual Assembly by a recent ruling confirmed this and decreed that in future it will finance all books, pamphlets, outlines, etc., published specially for teaching purposes.

A recent ruling of the National Spiritual Assembly in regard to the personal financing of books by the author authorizes the Publishing Committee to ask the author to donate the amount for publishing and then the Publishing Committee will manufacture and distribute books in the usual way.

New Publications

Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, bound in fabrikoid and cloth. Since publication date, October, 1935, we have sold and distributed over 1,400 copies of this title.

Bahá’í World, Volume V. Since publication date, February, 1936, we have sold and distributed over 900 copies of this volume.

Pamphlets for teaching purposes:

Homoculture, by Stanwood Cobb.

The Most Great Peace, by Marion Holley.

Oneness of Mankind, by Hussein Rabbani.

The above were all reprinted from articles in World Order Magazine.

Outlines: Twenty Lessons in the Bahá’í Administration, mimeographed. Prepared by the Outline Committee.

Reprints

Reality of Man, with Words of Wisdom of Bahá’u’lláh added to this edition, compiled by Horace Holley.

The Promise of All Ages, by Christophil. American edition of this title printed. Original edition published in England.

Small Prayer Book. A new edition with the prayers of the Báb added. These had been omitted from the previous edition.

The Bahá’í Faith, reprint of article in Chicago magazine “Unity,” by Horace Holley.

The Goal of a New World Order. Reprinted in October, 1935. This makes a total printing to date of over 18,000 copies.

Hidden Words, an edition printed from the last English edition by request of Shoghi Effendi. Bound in fabrikoid and paper.

Purchases

The Coming of the Glory, by Florence E. Pinchon. Copies purchased from the N. S. A. of Great Britain.

Two sets of Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era in Braille which were ordered made by Mrs. French, were purchased from American Brotherhood for Free Reading for the Blind. Announced in BAHÁ’Í NEWS for sale at $5.00 per set and they were suggested as a good gift for one of the Assemblies or for one of the friends individually to make to an Institution for the Blind. These copies are still available.

Mrs. French has had Kitab-i-Iqán made in Braille and distributed eight sets to libraries for the Blind Division. The plates for this title stored with plates for New Era in Braille at our New York printers.

Titles in Process of Publication

Seven Valleys and Four Valleys.

[Page 12] This will be published within the next few months.

Bahá’í Administration, without the World Order letters, which are to be made in a separate volume later. This volume of Bahá’í Administration will be sold for $1.50. Will be ready in April.

The Bahá’í House of Worship. Reprint of article by Genevieve L. Coy in Bahá’í World, V, will be ready for the Convention.

Editing Committee: ‎Dut Due‎ to the fact that manuscripts are often in need of careful editing before being sent to the printer, and this not being a function of the Reviewing Committee, Mrs. Grace Bastedo was appointed a committee of one to do this work.

World Order Magazine

With the issue of April 1935, the Bahá’í Magazine was brought under the management of the Publishing Committee and published under the new name of World Order. A list of 1,620 subscribers was turned over to the Committee; 684 names from the Bahá’í Magazine and 936 names from World Unity; the latter consisting principally of colleges, libraries and Peace Societies throughout the world.

From the Bahá’í Magazine we also received all stock of the magazines, bound volumes, office equipment, etc., and a check for $302.15. Full details of the stock of magazines and bound volumes will be published later. From World Unity we received a stock of books to be sold for the benefit of World Order:

117 World Community.

112 Foundations of World Unity.

489 Seven Great Bibles.

657 Nationalism and Internationalism.

The present subscription list of 1,761 names is not enough but renewals have been encouraging and the monthly orders for magazines in quantity from local Assemblies and booksellers give promise of substantial growth.

We have urged all Assemblies to cooperate by obtaining subscriptions from both Bahá’ís and non-Bahá’ís, for the magazine is a wonderful teaching medium and the name “World Order” should carry an appeal to all people. We allow Assemblies a commission of 50c on each annual subscription, will send order blanks and sample copies in bulk on request.

The Detroit Assembly has responded splendidly, sending in a list of seventy names for a six month’s trial subscription to outstanding people in their community. We feel that results will justify this effort.

Milwaukee asked if we would use an advanced dating on magazine to conform with other magazines for sale on newsstands. It was thought best to wait, however, until we have a larger circulation and feel that there is a real demand for the magazine on the newsstands.

Toledo asked if we could not change the color of cover monthly as the newsdealer who is selling a few copies monthly, made this suggestion. We could not accede to this request but we are pleased with the interest shown and know that in time, we will have a large circulation on the newsstands.

The National Spiritual Assembly has authorized us to send the magazine to Bahá’í teachers travelling abroad, as they know it will be of value in their teaching work.

We do hope that all the Bahá’í friends will respond to this appeal to make World Order a world wide magazine. The moral effect of bringing this dynamic name to the attention of the thinking people of the world will be of inestimable value. It will result in conveying the Bahá’í message to people who could not be otherwise reached, and many new believers will be enrolled.

HORACE HOLLEY, Chairman

CIARA R. WOOD, Secretary

MARIE B. MOORE

ROY C. WILHELM

BERTHA HERKLOTZ

SIEGFRIED SCHOPFLOCHER

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THE BAHA’I WORLD

(Vol. VI for Period 1934-1936)

Notwithstanding the fact that Vol. V of the Bahá’í World has only recently been placed in circulation, the collection of material for Vol. VI, which covers the period from April 21st, 1934 to April 21st, 1936, has been completed and duly forwarded to the Guardian in January in compliance with his specific request.

The fact that the volume was late in appearing evidently gave rise to the idea among the friends that there was no urgent need to proceed with the preparations for Volume VI. This is an impression which must be overcome at the very outset of this report, for any delay in so important a project as the continuance and regularity of the Bahá’í World would be a source of great disappointment to Shoghi Effendi and would, furthermore, provide occasion for remark and criticism to those who are watching to discover some weakness in our Bahá’í methods.

If at any time the Guardian himself should deem it advisable to discontinue this important international record, or if he should see fit to lengthen the period between the issues, that must be regarded as a manifestation of the divine fitness of things, but until that occurs all the Bahá’í Communities throughout the world are bound to preserve their records with the most scrupulous care and to present them upon request to whatever editorial committee may be charged with the responsibility of assembling and preparing them for publication.

Before proceeding further with the comments and suggestions which this committee would like to make in view of future books we would like to quote the words of the Guardian appearing in Bahá’í Administration, page 140, relative to the Bahá’í World. He says:

“This unique record of world-wide Bahá’í activity attempts to present to the general public, as well as to the student and scholar, those historical facts and fundamental principles that constitute the distinguishing features of the Message of Bahá’u’lláh to this age. I have, ever since its inception, taken a keen and sustained interest in its development, have personally participated in the collection of its material, the arrangement of its contents, and the close scrutiny of whatever data it contains.

“I confidently and emphatically recommend it to every thoughtful and eager follower of the Faith, whether in the East or in the West, whose desire is to place in the hands of the critical and intelligent inquirer, of whatever class, creed or color, a work that can truly witness to the high purpose, the moving history, the enduring achievements, the resistless march and infinite prospects of the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh. Eminently readable and attractive in its features, reliable and authoritative in the material it contains, up-to-date, comprehensive and accurate in the mass of information it gives, concise and persuasive in its treatment of the fundamental aspects of the Cause, thoroughly representative in the illustrations and photographs it reveals:—it stands unexcelled and unapproached by any publication of its kind in the varied literature of our beloved Cause. It will, without the slightest doubt, if generously and vigorously supported, arouse unprecedented interest among all classes of civilized society.

“I earnestly request you, dearly beloved friends, to exert the utmost effort for the prompt and widespread

[Page 13] circulation of a book that so faithfully and vividly portrays, in all its essential features, its far-reaching ramifications and most arresting aspects, the all-encompassing Faith of Bahá’u’lláh.”

The foregoing statement of the Guardian is sufficiently urgent and clear to acquaint us with the vast importance which he attaches to the Book. We must bear in mind that these Books are the sole international activity maintained in the Cause and are therefore a spiritual and educational preparation for the International House of Justice. Furthermore, the position of the Guardian, assuming almost hourly, we may say, greater and greater importance in the eyes of the religious, literary, scientific and cultural world is so outstanding that our most zealous efforts, our most meticulous care, our most scrupulous accuracy are not sufficient to express adequately his position or respond to his needs. Can we imagine any greater obligation or joy than to present to the Guardian the product of our most accurate, wise and loving devotion in any duty whatsoever which may be assigned to us in our service to him?

May we refer the friends again to a message from Shoghi Effendi which appears on page XII of the Introduction to Vol. II of the Bahá’í World where he says—“* * * * I would also remind you of the absolute necessity of adhering faithfully throughout the pages of the Book to the correct system of transliteration, which if consistently adopted and followed, will facilitate the pronunciation of Oriental terms with which the friends of the West are to be closely and increasingly associated in the future. The Year Book should prove a model and help to them all.”

The committee recognizes that as yet our typewriters do not carry the signs exactly adapted to the transliteration of Oriental terms, but we recommend that in every instance, wherever the accents are known, they should be added with a pen. When this is not done by the contributor it must be done by the committee but while any person charged with the distinguished honor and responsibility of compiling the material for these Books is only too happy to observe these instructions of the Guardian, the object is defeated unless we all, as a Community, become accustomed at once to the signs with which, as he says, “we are to become increasingly associated.” Only a very few of the manuscripts thus far received in the preparation of the material for the last three volumes have carried the correct signs. This is such a simple matter, yet it is one which we urge the friends to observe.

Again we would explain that in every case where printed matter is sent in for use in the Book two copies are necessary and should always be included, as pages printed on both sides of sheet cannot be used.

With the expiration of this Bahá’í year the record automatically begins for the next volume which will be Vol. VII. It will therefore be necessary for the National Spiritual Assemblies to appoint the members who are to constitute the ‎commitee committee‎ for that volume. We have striven throughout the past six years to define the policy and suggest the method of preparation for all written material, but many of the contributions which have been received have not yet come up to the standard of excellence which is due the Guardian, and which the friends, when they perceive that their articles and reports go directly to him, will wish to observe. The chairman and secretary of this committee neither re-write nor edit any material which is received unless, on the one hand, the writing or typing is not fit for presentation to the Guardian, or the Guardian, when he returns the copy for printing, specifically requests it.

In so far as concerns the collection of material the committee earnestly recommends that every member of the world-wide Bahá’í Community constitute himself a vigilant assistant for collecting interesting and useful additions to this International Bahá’í Record. The Guardian, beside requiring the very best that lies within the possibilities of the friends themselves, welcomes articles and comments from prominent and important personages who are sympathetic to the Faith, whether in English or other languages.

We cannot stress sufficiently the need for observance of the time limit when material is to be received, nor the very high standard which should be maintained, and in closing may we sieze this opportunity to express again our deep appreciation and abiding gratitude to those who have so generously and painstakingly collaborated in the preparation of Vol. VI which, if funds are available, should be ready for distribution in the early fall of this year, and we would especially desire to acknowledge the excellence of the reports rendered by Germany, India, Iraq and Egypt and their punctual compliance with the requests of the secretary.

HORACE HOLLEY, Chairman

NELLIE S. FRENCH, Secretary

BISHOP BROWN

RUTH BRANDT

ELSA RUSSELL BLAKELY

MARION HOLLEY

VICTORIA BEDIKIAN, Assistant Photograph Editor

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TEACHING AND TRAINING CHILDREN

The Committee on the Teaching and Training of Children is pleased to report that during the past year several new children’s classes have been established. The teachers are making considerable use of the lesson outline prepared two years ago but still wider use is encouraged, not only because the material provides an orderly introduction to the Bahá’í Teachings but also because increased sales will help to make possible the publication of further courses.

The chief service of the committee this year has been to advise teachers and to cooperate with Assemblies in initiating children’s classes. An opportunity for an interesting piece of experimental work last summer developed from the invitation of the Western States Summer School Committee to cooperate in arranging courses of Bahá’í instruction for the children who attended the Summer School with their parents. Twenty-eight children below the age of fourteen were enrolled in two classes, fourteen coming from non-Bahá’í homes. The helpful suggestions of the teachers growing out of these classes will aid in shaping the courses for the coming session of the Summer School.

Work has progressed on new teaching aids, though less rapidly than was anticipated a year ago. It is expected, however, that at least one new course will be ready for distribution immediately following the summer vacation. One outline under way consists of stories and other teaching material from “Nabil’s Narrative” and another is a suggested list of Old and New Testament stories which Bahá’í children should know. Consideration is being given also to a course on character education based on the Teachings of Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

The need of the latter is becoming increasingly more important in view of the concern of both educators and social workers over the serious problems of youth. A prominent leader in child welfare recently stated that the growing generation is coping with problems greater than those of any generation since the Renaissance. Adults do not know how to give guidance, he said, because they do not

[Page 14] know the pattern of life which youth will have to follow. Surely this is a stirring challenge to Bahá’ís not only to acquaint adults with the Teachings of Bahá’u’lláh wherein the path is clearly defined, but also to instill in the minds and hearts of children and young people such knowledge and moral vigor as will enable them to rear the new civilization which is the objective of our Faith. The Committee feels it cannot too strongly emphasize the opportunity which is now ours to build for the future through the boys and girls of today.

No suggested outline or course of lessons can possibly meet the needs of every community because the capacities and resources of both children and teachers vary. All Bahá’í instruction must be a gradual unfoldment of spiritual understanding and a good knowledge of the Teachings is as essential to teachers of children as to teachers of adults. Whatever the plan followed, and whatever the material used, the ultimate objective of the teaching and training of children must ever be the development of characters that are perfect expressions of the spiritual patterns contained in the Holy Utterances of Bahá’u’lláh.

CHARLOTTE M. LINFOOT, Chairman

SYLVIA IOAS, Secretary

MARION YAZDI

ELLA M. BAILEY

VIOLA TUTTLE

ELIZABETH HACKLEY

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LIBRARY

During the last fiscal year, the Library Division has donated 201 books to 42 libraries: 27 Public, 8 University and 7 Independent Libraries.

The recorded number of books have been as follows: Bahá’í World, Vol. II—26, Vol. III—24, Vol. IV—18, Vol. V—2, Book of Assurance—23, Bahá’í: Spirit of the Age—27, Bahá’í Revelation—25, Some Answered Questions—16, Oneness of Mankind—10, Le Vrai Bahá’í—25, Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era in Chinese—4, Foundations of World Unity—1.

The Committee’s main object this last year has been to place Bahá’í Literature into more University Libraries, and to request Local Assemblies and individuals to make a personal Library donation of the 3 outstanding new books, Promise of All Ages, Security for a Failing World, and Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh.

The donation of these books have been as follows: 12 copies of Promise of All Ages, 16 Security for a Failing World and 8 Gleanings.

The list of University and Independent Libraries to which the Library Division has donated literature, is as follows: Piney Woods Country Life School, Miss., University of Minnesota, Syracuse University, N. Y. Western State Teachers College, Kalamazoo, Mich., St. Mary’s School, Kenosha, Wis., Piedmont College, Demarest, Ga., Texas Technological College, Lubbock, Texas, University of Toledo, Ohio, University of California, University of Southern California, (donated by the Local Assembly of Los Angeles), Minnesota Historical Society, Philosophers Society, Englewood, N. J., American Theosophical Library, Washington, D. C., Near East Industries, New York City, and Rabbi Schwarz Temple Library, Chicago. Bahá’í Books in Braille to the Clovernook Library, Mt. Healthy, Ohio, and the Hebrew Union College, Cincinnati, (donated by the Local Assembly of Cincinnati). Literature was also placed in the libraries of two prisons, the Illinois State Prison at Joliet and the U. S. Northeastern Penitentiary at Lewisburg, Pa., at the request of the librarian for books in Chinese.

There are frequently many personal gifts made to libraries which do not come to the attention of the Library Division and we request whenever this is done that a report of it be sent to the Committee, so that the files may be kept up to date.

Many University Professors in the department of Philosophy and Religion have written that they include the Bahá’í Religion in their courses in Comparative and Living Religions, and that the students show great interest in the Teachings.

This we feel is most significant and we ask for continued cooperation in this University work.

The Committee is indeed grateful for the valuable assistance that the Local Assemblies and individuals have contributed in the furtherance of this work, and takes this opportunity to express its deep appreciation.

The National Spiritual Assembly has instructed the Library Division to make a distribution of 50 copies of Bahá’í World, Vol. V. This is to be partially done through the cooperation of the Local Assemblies. As the allotment is limited, we request that this volume be placed in the most representative Public and University Libraries, and we are particularly desirous to have it placed in those libraries within the immediate vicinity of the Temple. An early response will be greatly appreciated.

MARTHA WOODSUM, Chairman

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WORLD ORDER MAGAZINE

Editorial Department

The editorial policy controlling World Order was established by the National Spiritual Assembly in its announcement published in the March, 1935 issue of BAHÁ’Í NEWS. It seems well to quote from that announcement as the proper introduction to this brief report submitted by the editors covering the first volume of the magazine.

“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.”

Charged with the responsibility of translating this general policy into concrete form, the editors began by looking upon Shoghi Effendi’s “The Goal of a New World Order” as the perfect example of Bahá’í teaching adapted to this period of development. Incidentally, this view is confirmed by word received from the Guardian by the National Spiritual Assembly a few years ago, in which the hope was expressed that a copy of “The Goal of a New World Order” could be presented to every man and woman in the world.

It seemed clear to the editors that

[Page 15] the Guardian’s conception of the new world order has created the true meeting place between the Cause and the world—the true point of reconciliation between aspiring human thought and the descent of the Divine Plan. This conception of the function of the magazine—to build upon the firm foundation laid by the Guardian—has been the guidance and inspiration of the editors throughout the year.

The contents of volume one reflect that view, limited, naturally, by the amount of available material received from Bahá’í authors.

We would emphasize the following features of Volume One:—first, the passages carefully selected from “Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh”—the very essence of the Holy Spirit. Second, two articles consisting of related passages chosen from the Guardian’s “World Order” letters; third, the articles prepared for the Committee on Free Literature, published first in the magazine and then reprinted in pamphlet form at a considerable saving; fourth, the symposium entitled “A World Faith,” the ninth and final article of which will appear in the May issue. This symposium has made it possible for the contributors to cooperate in an interesting Bahá’í book, and the book itself, it is hoped, will be published within the next few months from the magazine types, thus contributing to the public teaching literature. Fifth, the series by Bertha Hyde Kirkpatrick summarizing a current study of American civilization knowledge of which is most helpful to every Bahá’í teacher. Sixth, Mamie L. Seto’s series on the divine art of living, based upon her study course as given at Central States Summer School last summer. Seventh, Dr. Bagdadi’s series entitled the “Story of Islám.” Many of the individual articles, like Prof. Piper’s “Spiritual Perspectives” and Oscar Newfang’s “World Federation” merit special emphasis.

It has been gratifying to note the extent to which magazine articles and editorials have been reprinted in newspapers and magazines, not only in this country, but in Scotland, Japan and India. We have, for example, clippings from John O’Groat Journal, Scotland, of May 17, June 28, September 27 and December 27, 1935; from The Modern Review of Calcutta, dated June, July, August, October, November and December, 1935 and January, 1936; from The Japan Times and Mail, Tokyo, of October 19, 1935 and February 17, 1936, The Chicago Defender of January 11, 1936, and from newspapers in Augusta, Georgia and Miami, Fla. As the general work of publicity develops in the Cause, the local Assemblies will find it possible more and more to bring the magazine articles to the attention of the press.

An important element of a magazine is its make-up and appearance. The editors have done as much as possible this year without a budget for art work. Beginning with the April number, the first issue of Volume Two, the color scheme will be changed to orange and blue, and the inside pages embellished with designs in black and white. To Mr. Carl Scheffler we are indebted for the front cover design and to Mrs. Nancy Bowditch and Mr. Scheffler for new designs for use this coming year. Designs have also been obtained from a friendly non-Bahá’í artist at low cost. Mrs. Doris McKay has given us the advantage of excellent advice in the matter of design and make-up, and has besides supplied some interesting sketches for decorations.

Consideration has been given to more than two hundred and thirty different contributions in prose and verse.

For coming issues we have on hand an interesting and valuable series of essays by Mrs. Rosa V. Winterburn on spiritual subjects, another series by Prof. Glenn L. Shook on civilization, and a third on modern Islam by Prof. McElroy. Another symposium will appear during the year, consisting of seven contributions under the title of “Seven Candles of Unity.” We also have Mrs. Loulie Mathews’ travel articles and some most interesting articles by Orcella Rexford.

As the difficulties of the world increase, the value of a public teaching medium for the Cause will intensify. The editors hope that the friends will redouble their efforts to furnish articles and suggestions, and that the Assemblies will augment the use of the magazine as a helpful contact with non-Bahá’ís.

STANWOOD COBB

HORACE HOLLEY

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WESTERN STATES SUMMER SCHOOL

The Western States Summer School, held at Bosch Place, Geyserville, July 14th to 27th, 1935, was one of the best sessions ever held.

It was opened by the usual Unity Feast, under the “Big Tree,” at noon, July 14th, attended by some 225 people. A true spirit of unity and devotion marked the opening of the School at the Feast, and continued throughout all the sessions. The attendance at the School meetings for the adults averaged 90. There were representatives present from Canada, England, Transylvania, Tahati, China, Honolulu, Jamaica, and an American Indian.

Most of the people were housed in the buildings on the Bosch Place, while a goodly number camped on the grounds, and others secured lodgings in the city.

In the conduct of the school, a definite objective of the Committee has been to improve the presentation of subjects, and the development at the same time of Bahá’í Teachers. Thus during the courses there were 19 different Bahá’ís who took part in the lectures. Each one was required to prepare himself well in advance, and have the subject outlined and condensed, so as to take up not over 30 or 35 minutes at the most. Two years ago a College Professor we had give a few lectures, remarked to me, that he did not see why we secured the assistance of College Professors, as our presentations were better than they could hope to do.

All classes are conducted on the creative discussion plan. The speaker introduces the subject with his detailed presentation in not over 35 minutes; then a period of 10 to 15 minutes is allowed for questioning and discussion. The third class of the day, was even more of a creative discussion meeting, dealing with the Fundamental Bahá’í Principles. In this class the leader used not over 20 minutes to present the subject, allowing 25 to 30 minutes for questioning and discussion. Of outstanding interest was the course on the Influence of Islám and the Teachings of Muhammad, the first on Islám to be given in an American Bahá’í Summer School.

There were four round table discussion meetings, held in one of the beautiful Redwood Groves, which developed enthusiasm and clearer understanding among all present, of the important subjects under consideration.

Children’s classes were held daily. One class was for those under 7 years of age, the other for those younger. All young people over 13 were permitted to attend the Adult Classes or the classes for those young people between 7 and 13. There were in attendance in all 53 young people, of which over 20 were non-Bahá’ís. Attached is detailed report of the Children’s and Youth Program Committee, outlining the method of conduct, supervision of both study and play, and details of the courses of study.

[Page 16] Three public teaching meetings were held; one with the local Grange at Geyserville, which is usually attended by all the officers of the Grange, the members of the Chamber of Commerce, city dignitaries, etc.; the second, a general public meeting in the city of Geyserville; and the third, an afternoon public meeting at the Griffith Grove, near Santa Rosa, in the beautiful outdoor amphitheatre there. These meetings were all very well attended, and great interest aroused in the Faith.

The citizens of Geyserville are becoming more kindly to the Bahá’ís all the time. Originally they were quite opposed to us, because of our Faith, Geyserville being an orthodox city. They even went so far as to warn certain of their people to beware of the Bahá’ís and their “pernicious teachings.” This was four or five years ago. It is of interest to note in passing, that the two particular Geyservillians, warned to be careful of the Bahá’ís, have both become Bahá’ís. The newspaper giving full page announcement of the Summer School and an announcement by the Chamber of Commerce extending a hearty welcome to the Summer School, shows the spirit of fellowship that has been developed. This has been possible only through strict adherence to Bahá’í conduct, which changed distrust into trust and confidence.

The 1935 program follows, together with the names of those who conducted the various classes:

PROGRAM
PACIFIC COAST BAHA’I SUMMER SCHOOL

Ninth Annual Session
Bosch Place, Geyserville, California

July 14th to July 27th, 1935

DEVOTIONS:

9:00 a. m. daily, under Big Tree

CLASSES:

9:30 a. m. to 12:30 p. m. daily, in Odd Fellows’ Hall

ROUND TABLE DISCUSSIONS:

2:30 p. m. each Tuesday and Friday

CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES:

Study Classes 9:30 a. m. daily in Children’s Library

Supervised Recreation: 2:30 p. m. daily

PUBLIC MEETINGS:

Fellowship Dinner with Geyserville Grange, 6:30 p. m. Thursday, July 18th, at the Grange Hall

Griffith Grove, Santa Rosa, 2:30 p. m., Sunday, July 21st

Odd Fellows’ Hall, Geyserville, 8:00 p. m., Wednesday, July 24th

UNITY FEAST:

The Annual Reunion of the friends and their guests, 12:00 noon, Sunday, July 14th, under the Big Tree

COURSES OF STUDY:

HISTORY OF THE BAHA’I FAITH

UNDERLYING PRINCIPLES OF BAHA’I ADMINISTRATION

THE ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER OF THE BAHA’I FAITH

INDIVIDUAL AND COLLECTIVE RELATIONS TO BAHA’I FAITH

THE TEACHINGS AND INFLUENCE OF ISLÁM

(Classes were conducted by Bahá’í teachers including the following: J. G. Gray, Louise Caswell, Nadeen Cooper, Rowland Estall, Kathryn Frankland, Marion Holley, H. R. Hurlbut, Leroy Ioas, Sylvia Kemp, George Latimer, Charlotte Linfoot, Joyce Lyons, Orcella Rexford, Paul Schoeney, Maimie Seto, Irwin Somerhalder, N. F. Ward and Nell Wilson.)

TEACHING CONFERENCE:

2:30 p. m., Saturday, July 20th, in Odd Fellows’ Hall

SPEAKERS AT PUBLIC MEETINGS

Unity Feast—

Chairman, Mr. Leroy Ioas

Speakers—Short talks and greetings from many.

Grange Dinner—Geyserville

Chairman, Mr. G. O. Latimer

Speakers, Miss C. Linfoot, Mrs. Orcella ‎Rexword Rexford‎, Prof. N. F. Ward

Music, Mr. Clarence Iverson, Miss Virginia Orbison

Griffith Grove Public Meeting

Chairman, Mrs. Nell Wilson

Speakers, Mr. Leroy Ioas—“Unity and Science and Religion”; Mr. S. Schopflocher—“Universal Appeal of Bahá’í ‎Faith Faith”‎; Mrs. Orcella Rexford—“The Promise of All Ages”

Geyserville Public Meeting

Chairman, Mr. Stanley B. Kemp

Speakers, Mr. Joe Bray—“Need of New World Order”; Mrs. Louise Caswell—“Promise of All Ages”; Mr. S. Schopflocher—“The Fulfillment of the New World Order”; Mrs. A. Y. Seto—“Personal and Spiritual Aspects of Bahá’í Faith”; Mrs. Orcella Rexford—“The Bahá’í Temple”—with pictures.

Music—Mr. S. Sanberg, Virginia Orbison, Clarence Iverson, Mildred Myers

Roundtable Discussions—Leaders, Virginia Orbeson—“Return and Reincarnation”; S. Schopflocher—“Problems Within the Cause”; Joe Bray—“Creative Discussion”

JOHN D. BOSCH, Chairman

LEROY C. IOAS, Secretary

Amelia Collins

George Latimer

ELLA G. COOPER

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BAHA’I YOUTH

The Bahá’í Youth Committee in its third year of activity has seen a remarkable growth of vitality in local groups and of method in the conduct of its own work. It can truly report that the relationship and importance of youth activity to local community life is now being appreciated, together with the Committee’s function of nation-wide integration and international responsibility for the development of a “body of active young Bahá’í men and women...” As the N. S. A. . . wrote in November, 1935, “youth activities are based upon the Guardian’s important instructions” (above quoted), and the solidity and wisdom of this foundation as a source for growth is being demonstrated.

In 1935 the annual report indicated 43 localities in America where youth had been reached. We now know of 30 organized youth groups and 49 other localities with Bahá’í youth, fairly evenly distributed throughout the country. In November the N. S. A. . . approved a recommendation that the Committee divide the national territory into three regions of responsibility, each with a sub-secretary. The purposes were to stimulate local activity, keep the Committee in close touch with local work and thought, foster inter-Assembly youth conferences, arrange for the interchange of youth teachers, cooperate with Summer School committees, and uphold the standard of Bahá’í conduct. The extension of this method is wholeheartedly recommended for next year.

In response to the impetus gained by the Cause since the completion of the dome ornamentation and the Guardian’s declaration of “a new hour,” Bahá’í youth have moved into a vigorous teaching phase. Regional conferences have been held with marked success; Evanston, Winnetka and Chicago now meet jointly once a month, and it has been found in northern and southern California and in New York that inter-group cooperation bears exceptional fruit. This trend has culminated in an interna-

[Page 17] tional celebration of Naw-Rúz by Bahá’í youth meeting regionally, a unique event in which youth of sixteen nations were invited to join and at least fifteen American conferences participated.

Young Bahá’ís are also centering their energies on the three Summer Schools. Louhelen and Green Acre have planned youth sessions and a committee is working on a specialization of program at Geyserville. Assemblies are urged to sponsor delegates, in order that every area may develop at its heart a center of inspiration for each coming year.

Other achievements include the international bulletin Bahá’í Youth, first issued December, 1935, to be published quarterly; the development of teaching teams in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York; a regular appearance in BAHÁ’Í NEWS; and definite steps toward an international program. Mrs. Victoria Bedikian has assisted in extending the Committee’s contacts through correspondence and the Round Robin letters. It is also significant that three Committee members are now resident in England, Germany and Switzerland.

Although over 200 youth between the ages of 15 and 21 are listed, only six have actually registered with their Assemblies, thus gaining the privilege, not automatically theirs, of attending Feasts and of serving on local youth committees. In a recent statement the N.S. A. . . has emphasized the “spiritual responsibility” attained at the age of fifteen, a concept to be studied and developed in the coming year.

The Committee is especially happy to report a profound interest in the possibilities of the Bahá’í way of living, and is confident that a new motion has been released among Bahá’í youth by the Gleanings, a volume which the Guardian hopes “will enable them to gain a fuller consciousness of their functions and responsibilities, and to arise and set the example before the rest of the believers, not only in the field of teaching, but in all the other fields of Bahá’í activity as well.” (February 2, 1936, in letter to Marion Holley.)

KENNETH CHRISTIAN, Chairman

MARION HOLLEY, Secretary

FLORENCE MATTOON, Sub-secretary

GERTRUDE GEWERTZ

PAUL HANEY

DAVID HOFMAN

FARRUCK IOAZ

MARGARET KUNZ

MARY MAXWELL

SYLVIA PARMELEE

ROSEMARY SALA

DOUGLAS STRUVEN

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PUBLICITY

“What is most essential at present is to give the Movement the widest publicity possible, so as to well prepare the ground for future teaching expansion. Nothing short of your ‎perseverence perseverance‎ and of the remarkable crusading spirit animating you, and so many of our American brothers and sisters, can insure the eventual and complete attainment of this object.”—SHOGHI EFFENDI.

Although this quotation was written to Agnes Alexander in Japan this past year it seems to be a vital note which should be sounded in every center in the United States and Canada.

During the year the National Publicity Committee has sent out three releases. The first release was sent last August, at the time of the completion of the clerestory section of the dome of the Bahá’í House of Worship, to the newspapers in the cities where there are Bahá’í Communities. This release was accompanied by two pictures of the completed dome. Before the publications of “THE BAHÁ’Í WORLD,” Volume V, a second release was sent out as a basis for publicity to be used by each Community. In January, examples of publicity that the newspapers have used this past year and a standard of newspaper copy were mailed to the Assemblies.

The Publicity File, started last year, has been continued and many additions made. In several instances this file has supplied advance publicity information about traveling teachers in the Cause.

The annual Scrap Book shows a growth in the following ways: The papers have accepted more publicity bearing directly upon the Cause. The variety of material used shows initiative on the part of the Communities. The amount of space obtained shows a better attitude on the part of the press, brought about we feel sure by the persistent efforts of the local publicity Chairmen. It should be noted also that the publicity submitted has contained material which was considered real news by the editors and therefore acceptable.

The radio has been used and radio broadcasts of varying length have been given all over the country. In some cities the Sunday meetings were announced over local stations.

Small magazines have carried articles and pictures of the Bahá’í House of Worship and the rotogravure sections of the Sunday papers have printed pictures of the clerestory section of the dome.

The committee is grateful for the cooperation of the local publicity committees and the friends who have sent in their Publicity File questionnaires. The many letters which have been received have brought inspiration and encouragement throughout the year.

RUTH RANDALL-BROWN, Chairman

ALICE N. PARKER

NINA ‎MATTHIESEN MATTHISEN‎

DR. A. LAWRENCE MORRIS

NELLIE S. FRENCH

SORAYA CHAMBERLAIN

LOUIS G. GREGORY

HELEN INDERLIED

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GREEN ACRE SUMMER SCHOOL

During the first week of the Green Acre Summer School, July 8-12, Prof. Glenn Shook and Mr. Louis Gregory each gave two lectures, and Dr. Stanwood Cobb gave one lecture in the regular morning class period, from 11:00 to 12:30. The topics considered in their discussion were “Immortality,” “Prayer” and “Prophecy.”

During the second week of the session, Dr. Cobb gave a very helpful course in which he reviewed his own book, “Security for a Failing World,” as well as “The Promise of All Ages,” by Christophil, and then showed how these books can be used in teaching the Bahá’í Faith.

The third course was given by Prof. Shook, on “Mysticism and the Bahá’í Teaching.” Prof. Shook had prepared a very valuable outline to accompany this course, in which he used Ruhi Effendi’s “Mysticism and the Bahá’í Revelation” as the basic reading. Topics covered included the following: the conflict between mind and heart, the nature of mysticism, and the fundamental difference between mysticism and prophetic religion.

The leader who had been scheduled for the fourth course was unable to come to Green Acre and the morning meetings that week were given to prayer and meditation, with various friends as leaders.

During the fifth week, four different leaders took charge of the work. Mr. Emeric Sala led two discussions on the topics “A new Aspect of Religion” and “A Theocratic Democracy.” The speakers and topics for the three remaining days were as follows:—Mrs. Rosemary Sala, “A Two-fold Consciousness”; Mr. Saffa Kinney, “Spirituality” Miss Louise Wright, “The Reality of Man.”

The course for the sixth week was led by Miss Genevieve Coy, and the topic for discussion was “Racial Likenesses and Differences: the Scientific Evidence and the Bahá’í Teaching.” The purpose of this course was to

[Page 18] provide Bahá’í teachers with scientific material with which to meet the arguments of non-Bahá’ís who maintain that the oneness of mankind is impossible because of racial differences.

The seventh course on “The Origin, Powers and Conditions of Man” was led by Mr. Alfred Lunt, and used sections of “Some Answered Questions” as the basic text. Mr. Lunt discussed very helpfully such topics as: the true place of man in the universe; the human spirit as a divine trust, and gateway of eternal life.

The final course of the summer school was given by Mr. Horace Holley, on the topic “The Most Great Peace.” The purpose of this course was “to concentrate thought upon the Bahá’í conception of and program of World Peace, in clear distinction to the conceptions and programs emanating from traditional religious and political sources.” Mr. Holley began the course with a valuable historical summary of past efforts toward world peace, and concluded with a discussion of the “Most Great Peace of Bahá’u’lláh as regeneration of mankind, and as Transformation of Society.”

The largest average attendance at the courses was during the last two weeks,—44 and 43, respectively. The number of different people attending during these two weeks was 80 for the seventh course and 73 for the last course.

Three week-end conferences were held during the summer:—Teaching Conference, July 5-7; Amity Conference, August 17-18; Youth Conference, August 24-25.

One of the most valuable aspects of life at Green Acre is the informal discussion which goes on wherever the friends meet in small groups. Such discussions were frequent during the summer of 1935, and those who shared in them found them unusually inspiring. Interested non-Bahá’ís often joined in these small groups, and thus had an opportunity to learn more of the Bahá’í teachings. We were especially happy in having a number of such guests at the Inn, some of whom have already joined Bahá’í communities.

Green Acre was especially fortunate in having Ruhi Effendi as a visitor for ten days at the end of the summer. He was a valuable member of the last course of the season, and many of the students found in his two dynamic evening lectures the highest point of the summer’s work.

GENEVIEVE L. COY, Chairman

MARY CORISTINE

GLENN SHOOK

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REVIEWING

The National Spiritual Assembly has defined the functions of the above committee as follows:

1. To determine whether the manuscript conforms to Bahá’í teaching,
2. To determine whether the manuscript conforms to adequate standards of literary style and taste,
3. To determine whether the manuscript meets a real need in the Cause which would justify its publication by the Publishing Committee under our present very limited financial resources.

The National Assembly has also decided that the notation that the work is approved by the Bahá’í Reviewing Committee of the N. S. A. is to be limited to such works as have not only been approved by this committee and confirmed by the National Assembly, but which are also published by the Publishing Committee.

In other words, a manuscript might be accurate as far as the Teachings are concerned, but badly written and expressed and therefore not recommended for publication by the Publishing Committee. The author might, however, sell it to a magazine or publishing house. In this case there would be no notation “Approved by the Reviewing Committee of the N. S. A.,” but the author himself would have the confirmation of approval from the point of view of accuracy of the teachings from the National Assembly. Again a manuscript might be accurate and adequate in form and style but not needed at the moment. The author, however, would be at perfect liberty to have this published through some other channel, without however the Bahá’í imprint.

The Reviewing Committee wishes to remind the friends that it cannot be expected to edit and revise manuscripts.

The Reviewing Committee does not review music, poetry or any other form of aesthetic expression. The obvious reason for this is that the Bahá’í Teachings are the perfect standard of spiritual reality but cannot be consulted to determine matters of purely aesthetic value.

The following manuscripts were approved:

RACIAL AMITY COMPILATION—Mae Harvey Gift and Alice Simmons Cox.

THE ONENESS OF HUMANITY—by Doris and Willard McKay (article).

THE SPLENDID AGE—by David Hofman (book).

TWO ARTICLES (for magazines) by Raphael Pumpelly.

TWENTY LESSONS ON BAHÁ’Í ADMINISTRATION—Mary Collison and Marguerite Firoozi (Study Outline Committee).

BABÍ’ÍSM and THE BAHÁ’Í FAITH — Horace Holley — two short articles to replace the present ones in the Encyclopedia Britannica.

BAHÁ’Í ANSWERS—by Olivia Kelsey (enlarged from last year’s version).

THE PATH TO GOD—by Dorothy Baker—for Free Literature pamphlet.

I WILL COME AGAIN—by Ella C. Quant (pamphlet).

EDUCATION FOR WORLD ORDER—Horace Holley, (article for magazine Women).

GENEVIEVE L. COY, Chairman

DORIS HOLLEY, Secretary

MARIE B. MOORE

DELLA C. QUINLAN