National Bahá’í Review/Issue 15/Text

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THE MORTGAGE ON OUR FUTURE

The Baha’i Community of the United States continues to face a serious crisis!

The Fund! How often, of late, we have been reminded of the need for increased support! The Fund! How vital it is to the teaching efforts of the Nine Year Plan of the entire Baha’i World! The Fund! The sustenance, the very life-blood of the Administrative Order of Baha’u’llah!

But the ominous deficit continues to grow. From $60,000 at Ridvan, 1967. To $128,000 at % Ridvan, 1968. To $202,000 on Bahda’u’llah’s % Birthday, 1968. Finally, to a present figure of % $207,657.52.

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years, the National Spiritual Assembly has had the bounty of being the beneficiary of a number of estates, some of these of substantial magnitude. At the same time, many of these estates have specified that part or all of the bequest is to be used for a particular purpose such as summer schools, building improvements, or future institutions which are still unseen. In some cases, it is not practical to establish the institutions called for in these bequests until a future date. This has resulted in an accumulation of assets which we are obligated to use for specific future purposes.

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PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHA'IS OF THE UNITED STATES

FOR BAHA'IS ONLY

112 Linden Av., Wilmette, II]. 60091 Second-class postage paid at Wilmette, Illinois




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estates involved.

It can be truthfully stated, then, that it has been necessary to place a mortgage on the future of the Baha’i Faith in the United States and the world in order to meet our present commitments. What a sobering thought to ponder! What a significant challenge to which we must now arise!

What can be done? An obvious approach is to cut spending. But we must first give careful consideration to the implications of such a move. How many of the goals of our Nine Year Plan would go unfulfilled as a result of such a move? Can we afford the risk of foregoing the mass conversion that is imminent because our proclamation and deepening efforts are cut short through lack of funds? It becomes increasingly obvious that spending cuts do not really provide a very attractive alternative.

The only answer, then, is to somehow arise to meet the challenge of our current budget, the budget suggested by the National Spiritual Assembly and ratified — even increased — by your delegates to the National Convention. We must, as individual Baha’is, come forward and provide the support that it is both our privilege and our obligation to provide.

Let us pray for the individual and collective guidance that is so vital at this time of great need. Let us re-examine ourselves, asking how our sacrifice compares with the potential catastrophe of failing to respond adequately to this financial crisis. Can we narrow the margin between what we can give and what we do give for the bounty and privilege of being a part of the Cause of Baha’u’lla4h? Let us arise and repay this mortgage against our future that we may reach Ridvan, 1969, with our budget oversubscribed!

In His Most Glorious Name, let us meet this test!

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MARCH 1969

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We ooo ade ofehe rhe ole oe ofa ofo ee ate ofe te ofa ofe fe [Page 2]2 THE TIME IS RIPE

Here in the Department of International Goals we are convinced daily that a “perpetual movement like the ceaseless surge of the sea”, is exerting an irresistable spiritual force throughout the world. In indisputable confirmation of the power of this force, ninety-nine have enrolled in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, in the span of three weeks. These new Baha’is are ablaze with the fire of the Faith.

At this writing, February 4; the number has climbed to 114, not including six declarations from other areas of the Island and one visitor from Massachusetts. These enrollments open two new centers and, although most of the new members in Mayaguez are youth, the formation of its assembly is assured.

What each new delivery of mail will reveal is a never ceasing source of excitement and _ inspiration! Our dedicated, hardworking pioneers, Mr. Gordon Tom Burke and Mrs. Alice Burke have given their home for the Baha’i Center which is constantly seething with enthusiastic youth seeking to learn more and more about the Cause of Baha’u’llah. The Burkes are ably assisted and inspired by two youth from the States, Miss Lynn Johnson and Miss Robin Grimson, who are both enrolled as students at the Inter-American University at San German only a fifteen-minute drive from Mayaguez. Mrs. Norma DaVar, pioneering in Mayaguez with her thirteen year old daughter, lends her able help to this Baha’i population explosion. Pioneers Leonard Ericks and Mrs. Lila Witzel Ericks, who live across the island, are also assisting.

The new believers are taking active and enthusiastic part in the many teaching training courses scheduled, presenting as teachers various aspects of the Faith and preparing the material through their individual research and those who are bi-lingual are engaged in translating the presentations —thus learning and absorbing the teachings of Bahda’u’llah.

A Puerto Rico Youth Conference is in the planning by the very capable Puerto Rico Goals Committee and its appointed Youth Resource Group, working in close cooperation, for the period of the schcol break for Easter, April 2-April 6.

The exciting and inspirational events taking place in Puerto Rico abundantly evidence the fact that “The Time is Ripe”.

“Whoso openeth his lips in this Day and maketh mention of the name of his Lord, the hosts of Divine inspiration shall descend upon him from the heaven of My name, the All-Knowing, the All-Wise. On him shall also descend the Concourse on high, each bearing aloft a chalice of pure light... .”

On hearing of these victories the Universal House of Justice cabled on January 31 as follows:

DELIGHTED INFLUX LARGE NUMBER YOUTH MAYAGUEZ. CONVEY FRIENDS PUERTO RICO ASSURANCE OUR ARDENT PRAYERS. WAY MAY NOW BE OPENED WIDESPREAD ACCEPTANCE FAITH THROUGHOUT IMPORTANT ISLAND CARIBBEAN SEA.

DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL GOALS

MARCH 1969


GOAL OF THE MONTH

For a YouTH and a PARENT The Youtu to devote one year of his or her life to pioneering in an African or South American goal country. The Parent to sponsor such a year for his, or someone else’s son or daughter. This year might be an interlude between high school and college, between college and career, or possibly continued education in a foreign University. Estimated cost $1500 to $2500 depending upon country chosen.

These are the Goal Countries:

South Africa Ecuador

Central African Republic Dominican Republic Gabon Nicaragua

Togo Peru

Bolivia Venezuela

An interested youth or parent should pray— and meditate on this—then write or phone the DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL GOALS

112 Linden Ave., Wilmette, Ill. 60091

Phone 312-256-4400




Sharing Pioneer Experiences

Wonderful and inspirational letters come from all over the world to the Department of International Goals. We cannot resist sharing a few of these. A dedicated pioneer to South America, after a brief visit to the United States wrote:

“Once again I am thankful to the Almighty for the opportunities afforded me during my visit, for it is through the meeting with kindred souls that one’s spiritual batteries are re-charged and enthusiasm rekindled. This same excitement is achieved through the visit of a travelling teacher and to those who have asked me if I thought the visit by outside Bahda’is was useful in South America, I have answered that indeed it was. For similar to the travelling troubadours of long ago, the Baha’i travelling teacher brings joyous news from foreign lands and brings illuminating glad-tidings in multi-lingual voices.”

In anothei comununication this successful, enthusiastic believer gives excellent advice for the new pioneer:

“I will be forever grateful to dear Hand of the Cause Dr. Muhajir, whose loving guidance encouraged my pioneering effort. His parting words opened many doors for me and will never be forgotten. He said, in effect, ‘When you pioneer, go as if you would settle permanently in that territory, solve your problems in this way, and both the Faith and your life will quickly become established. When the Faith is well established and you should wish to pioneer again, that is alright too.’

“The psychological effect of this advice is astounding, for the pioneer views his problems as part of a new life rather than with the attitude of.a tourist who is just visiting. Those people he befriends also react to him as one who has come to stay.

“There were times when some problem was really [Page 3]REVIEW

getting me down, I would momentarily consider ‘I don’t have to take this’ and than I would react by thinking ‘I intend to stay here; there is no alternative; how can the problem be overcome?’”

One pioneer couple, in the United States after living over two years in Africa, describes the experience thus:

“To serve in the capacity of pioneers was a wonderful experience and test to us. If I were blessed to return to an overseas pioneer post, I would try to benefit from past mistakes. Mainly I think that to try.to live the life of a Bahai and make good friends with a large number of local people should come well before trying to spread the Message by words. Certainly this would have a far more lasting effect. I would, moreover, try even harder to learn the local language well. Can a

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person put his trust in people he doesn’t understand?

“From the over two years which we spent in Africa, we gained one outstanding impression—that manpower (devoted Bahda’is) is in extreme need there.

“Really, going to Africa to pioneer (especially if one is able to acquire employment before going) is not necessarily a great material sacrifice. Many times the contrary is true. The sacrifice (actually the blessing) comes with trusting in Baha’u’ll4h and spending time and energy for His Cause at the pioneer post — learning the language, making friends, going on teaching trips, learning local customs. Time and energy — the same sacrifices required on the homefront goals. Once you go, there’s the big chance you won’t be satisfied to stay home again.”


Some Reflections on the Marriage Law

The following excerpt of a letter from a young Baha’i will be encouraging and enlightening to believers who may experience difficulty in obtaining parental consent for marriage. His letter was written following his own study and meditation of the law of Baha’u’llah making it mandatory for Baha’is to have the consent for marriage from all living parents of the couple.

“Because of a number of incidents in the American Baha’i community involving parental consent before marriage, and because dealing with my possible future parents-in-law have given me some insights into the problem, I feel pressed to share with the Assembly my thoughts about the subject, for possible consultation and deepening and sharing with Bahda’is throughout the world. I don’t pretend to be an expert on the subject, but I feel strongly that my thoughts would do some good.

“Some guidelines for a prospective bride and _ bride groom contemplating a Baha’i ceremony:

1. If the parents seem hostile, don’t panic. Keep your sense of proportion and drown yourselves in the Writings of Baha’u’lah.

2. Talk with them lovingly, forgetting for a moment your future happiness, and concentrate on what troubles them.

3. If, after loving consultation, which should include meeting with the local spiritual assembly if possible, the parents still do not relent, and it is certain that they never will, separate, and place your confidence in God. Apparently it was not His Will that the union take place, and you are destined to find other partners, if that be His Will.

4. If both parties are firm in the Covenant, and put the Faith first in all circumstances, all barriers to happiness will be removed, and most of the situations with parental stubbornness will disappear.”

Auxiliary Board Members for North America

Assigned by the Continental Board of Counsellors

MEMBER ASSIGNED TERRITORY

Mr.R.Ted Anderson Yukon and McKenzie Territories, Alberta, British Columbia, and share Franklin District with Peggy Ross

Mr. Howard J. Brown Alaska, Washington, Idaho

Mr. Fred Graham Ontario, Quebec, The Maritimes

Mr. Albert B. James Maryland, District of Columbia, Delaware, New Jersey, Virginia, West Virginia, Ohio

Mr. Chester Kahn Utah, Arizona, Nevada, all Indian

Reservations

Mr.Curtis D. Kelsey Florida

Mrs. Javidukht

Southern Illinois, Iowa, Wyoming, Khadem

Oregon, Northern California

MEMBER ASSIGNED TERRITORY

Dr. Peter J. Khan Michigan, Northern Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Nebraska, North

Dakota, South Dakota, Montana

Mrs. JaneMcCants Georgia, Alabama, Louisiana, Mis sissippi, Arkansas, Oklahoma

Mrs. Katherine Mc Laughlin

New England (Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island), New York, Pennsylvania

Mrs. Peggy Ross Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Keewatin District, and share Franklin District

with Ted Anderson

Mrs. VelmaSherrill Missouri, Kansas, Texas, Colorado,

New Mexico, Southern California

Dr. William M. Tucker North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky, Indiana

Additional information in relation to the work of the Auxiliary Board Members will be published later. Please note change in assignment of Montana as reported January 10, 1969 in letter to all local spiritual assemblies and state

goals committees.

~——. =~ [Page 4]

Reception for the Mitchells Held in Wilmette

Mr. and Mrs. Glenford E. . Mitchell were formally and delightfully introduced to the leading citizens of Wilmette at a well-attended reception hosted by the Wilmette Baha’i community. On Sunday, January 26

village and church officials, school and organization heads, and local friends of the Bahda’is enjoyed hospitality at the home of Dr. and Mrs. Rexford Parmelee The local resident role played by each National Spiritual Assembly secretary has varied during his residence, and the Mitchells were warmly welcomed as new assets in many aspects of community life. Genuine enjoyment was evident as most guests stayed for an extended period of time.


Baha'u llah— Divine Architect

of Human Rights

A Report of Celebrations of the Birthday of Baha'u'llah in the United States

Burlington, Vermont

The Baha’i Community of Burlington, Vermont ob: served the Birthday of Baha’u’llah by inviting the public to view the film, ‘‘Celebrities Look at Religion.”

According to the community report, ‘‘This was the largest public event planned thus far by our group... Although it drew only three seekers, we feel it was highly successful.”

“We bought an abundance of fruit, nuts and cookies,”’ the report continued, ‘‘and since all of it wasn’t consumed, we made large baskets decorated with flowers and filled with the food. Then we delivered the baskets throughout the city to various nursing homes

and homes for the aged.” “It was a wonderful and fulfilling way of celebrating the Birthday of Baha’u’llah,” the report concluded.

Rhinelander, Wisconsin Bah4'is Planned

a Quiet Commemoration . . . But

For the Baha’is of Rhinelander, Wisconsin, this year’s supposedly quiet observance of the Birthday of Baha’u’llah turned into a gala affair.

Mrs. Cordelia Norder writes in a letter ‘‘As a result of so much travel of late, other presented opportunities, etc., this event was planned to be just a quiet commemoration with the newly enrolled believers and most intimate friends .. ., but it didn’t turn out that way.”’

Mrs. Norder stated ‘‘Late in the afternoon of that day, (I) was notified that a local priest was coming and had been told that it was to be a big party. Seems that he had been under pressure from one of his parishioners to attend a fireside for the past month, and finally accepted or rather gave in to the pressure on this occasion.!’’ [Page 5]HABRUE RADE TEE




Mayor John Smith receives The Proclamation of Baha’u’llah from the Bahd’is of Hayward, California. This presentation was made in conjunction with the celebration of the Birthday of Bahd’u’llah. Left to right: Mrs. Janet Talamantis, Mayor John Smith, John J. Gallaghen, and Mrs. Eileen Johnes.

“With a beautiful bouquet of flowers sent out by a Catholic friend, a huge birthday cake baked by an Episcopal friend, party favors, the priest, two nuns and nine others, it turned out to be a gala affair.’’

In the closing remarks about this commemoration, Mrs. Norder wrote ‘‘How great to hear the priest say in leaving: ‘There will be many more such discussions.’ ”

Unusual Headline

“Baha’is Note Birthday of Prophet Baha’u’llah”’ was the headline of a four-column feature article on the life of Baha’u’llah printed in The Union newspaper of Grass Valley-Nevada City, California. The article was submitted to The Union by the Baha’i Groups of Grass Valley and Nevada City.

A round-table presentation was conducted by the youth of the Santa Monica, California Community in observance of the Birthday of Baha’u’llah.

The Fresno J. D., California Community celebrated the Birthday of Baha’u’llah by sponsoring a potluck, Birthday dinner. The report stated that there were ‘‘No sermons!” and went on to say ‘‘All the guests knew that we were celebrating the Birthday of Baha’u’llah, and they know who Baha’u’llah, is! They were testing us to see if we knew,” Cripe said several American Indians were among the astounding ninety percent of respondents who attended the observance.

“Tt was truly a joyful occasion,’ was what Mrs. Kathleen Javid had to say about the public meeting held in observance of the Birthday of Baha’u’llah sponsored by the Baha’is of Everett, Washington. The meeting was held in the Banquet Room of a cafe, and Winston Evans was the speaker for the occasion. There were 64 people present and of that number at least 18 guests.

The Baha’is of Laramie, Wyoming, sponsored a social gathering in observance of Baha’u’llah Birthday. The entertainers for the occasion were the Baha’i Players of Denver, Colorado, who presented a program of readings and music entitled ‘‘He has Come to the Nations.”’ The community reported that ‘“‘In spite of the bad weather, it was a beautiful and impressive occasion. Much appreciated by all who came.”

Brief reports of public meeting observances have come from Scottsdale and Tucson, Arizona; Rogers,


Bahd’is of Ogden, Utah marked the Birthday of Bahd’u’llah by

presenting nine copies of The Proclamation of Baha’u’llah to

community leaders and libraries. Mayor Bart Wolthuis is

shown receiving the book from C. D. Schneider, chairman of

the Bahd’i Assembly of Ogden while Jack Angell and Mrs.

Lois George watch. The event received good publicity with picture in the local paper.

Arkansas; Bakersfield, San Diego, and San Rafael, California; Greater Bridgeport and Meriden, Connecticut; Cobb County, Georgia; Belleville, Illinois; Macomb County, Michigan; Great Falls, Montana; Reno and Sparks, Nevada; Montclair, New Jersey; Geneva, New York; Mansfield and Warren, Ohio; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Bremerton, Washington.

Dinners were sponsored in observance of Baha’u’llah’s Birthday by the Communities of Desert J.D., Healdsberg and Santa Rosa, California; Agana, Guam; Fort Lauderdale and Tallahassee, Florida; Brunswick-Topsham, Maine; Montgomery County, Maryland; Grand Forks A.F.B., North Dakota; Columbus and Warren, Ohio; Lower Bucks County, Pennsylvania; and Spokane, Washington.

Similar observerances were held in Colorado Springs, Colorado; South Bend, Indiana; Baltimore, Maryland; Yonkers, New York; Alexandria, Virginia; and Oconomowoc, Wisconsin.

According to reports received, over 730 column inches of gratis publicity in 58 newspapers were received; about one hour of-radio time was donated, and several displays were placed in libraries.

First Public Meeting in Shiprock

The first Baha’i public meeting to be held in Shiprock, New Mexico on the northeastern part of the Navajo Reservation occurred on January 11, 1969. Paul Monka of Los Angeles was the featured speaker.

The small home of the resident Baha’i family was overflowing with the friends and guests who attended the potluck dinner and meeting. The event had been publicized by a story in the Farmington paper and an advertisement in the Navajo Times.

Inquirers attending included two families from Tuba City, Arizona which is 170 miles distant. Others came from Farmington, New Mexico and Shiprock. Baha’is were present from Lewis, Colorado; Gallup, New Mexico; Fort Defiance and Window Rock, Arizona.

Many lively questions followed Mr. Monka’s stimulating talk. It is hoped that this meeting may be the impetus for an increasing interest in the message of Baha’u’llah on the part of those residing in this part of the Navajo Reservation. More pioneers are greatly needed to help in the work in this area. [Page 6]“Pioneering must be experienced...”

The National Spiritual Assembly has recently given its permission to reprint a letter that appeared in the April 1956 issue of BaHA’i News written by Mr. Amoz Gibson (now a member of the Universal House of Justice) and his wife Mary.

“Pioneering must be experienced; it cannot be adequately described, but must be lived. The uncertainties, the trials and tests, yes, even the failures, and of course the triumphs, give a new feeling of the presence of Baha’u’llah’s ever-flowing bounty. The manifold joys and blessings that the pioneer receives still await many hundreds of His followers. For has not Shoghi Effendi, our beloved Guardian, said, “A veritable exodus from the large cities... must signalize the inauguration of this most intensive and challenging phase of the Crusade on the home front.” Among the goal cities one will find every type of climate, opportunity for work, and association with people of varied backgrounds.

“Here on the Navajo reservation we have met some new and different experiences. But we are more strongly impressed by the similarities which we believe are common to all man


Proclamation in High Gear

A steady flow of reports on Proclamation Weeks is being received at the National Baha’i Center. Some of the Proclamation Weeks involve only one city or town and others encompass a whole state. Two recent state proclamations were those held in Northern Virginia, October 5-13, 1968 and the New Mexico Baha’i Recognition Week held early this past January. A recent citywide event was Proclamation Week in Scottsdale, Arizona held November 10-16, 1968. All the reports indicate successful proclamations.

While the final report is not in on the New Mexico proclamation a highlight was the signing by the Governor of New Mexico of a proclamation announcing Baha’i Recognition Week throughout the State. The public meetings held in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Gallup and Las Cruces were well attended, the television, radio and newspaper coverage was excellent.

In the Northern Virginia Proclamation a whole range of activities was used to proclaim the Faith. Prior to the proclamation week the book, The Proclamation of Baha’u'llah was presented to state representatives, senators and the Governor of Virginia. In Arlington, Virginia bus advertising was used. The ad depicted abstract drawings of three races, emphasized the greatest challenge of the day, and gave addresses and telephones. “Take Ones”, single sheets of information re-emphasizing the oneness of mankind on one side and listing basic facts on the other were attached to the poster for the bus patrons. The bus advertisement in one hundred buses has lead to two declarations in Arlington and it is scheduled to run for one year.

One hundred and fifty-three press kits on the Baha’i Faith were mailed to radio stations in Virginia. Other activities in the Northern Virginia proclamation includ MARCH 1969

kind; a sense of pride in one’s cultural heritage, a love for children, an eagerness for education, and a deep spiritual belief in a power far greater that man himself.

“Our only regret is that we hesitated so long, considering family, home, jobs, health. Now we know that these matters are relatively unimportant. Baha’u’llah takes care of such things. But to us He leaves the choice to pioneer or not. This decision He will not make for us. And it is this choice that can bring such rich rewards.”

Today we face a challenging phase of the Nine Year Plan. Mass conversion is at our doorstep. The need to expand and consolidate the divinely-ordained institutions of our Faith becomes ever-apparent as we chart our course while sailing on that unknown sea of world-wide proclamation. Needs exist everywhere. Listed are the assemblies that need Baha’is, the large groups that can form new assemblies; the localities that form the seedbed for future expansion. The National Baha'i Community is on the verge of a tremendous victory, and you are the prime ingredient.

—NaTIONAL TEACHING COMMITTEE

ed Sunday Schools, a Fair Booth (viewed by an estimated one million individuals), handouts and posters, interviews on radio and television, a Mayor’s proclamation, public meetings, firesides, luncheon meetings, open houses, the showing of the film “And His Name Shall Be One”, a music festival (attended by over 200 individuals), an International Dinner and_ displays. Newspapers throughout Northern Virginia carried stories on the various aspects of the proclamation. It is estimated that well over two million individuals were reached by this effort.

The Proclamation Week in _ Scottsdale, Arizona, among other things, is notable for its low cost of only $240. The program of activities included public meetings, newspaper releases, spot announcements for radio and television stations, television interviews of speakers, posters, literature holders in laundromats, speaking engagements at high schools, mailing out invitationprograms of the week’s activities. The Scottsdale Baha’i Community sets an example of what can be done on what they call “a shoestring budget” for a proclamation effort.

Mayor George A. Hamilton of Fairfax City, Virginia, signs Baha’i Week Proclamation witnessed by (left to right): Donald Larson, Mrs. Soo Fouts, Miss Gretchen Border, Miss Linda Marshall.


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ME Pa ae


Bahai display in Maryland State Fair. The display was designed and produced by the Bahda’is of Fairfax County, Virginia.

", .. In the Forefront of All Progressive Movements"

The following excerpts from a letter gratefully received by NABOHR are shared with the Baha’fs for their enlightening observations and evaluation.

“Dear Friends:

“We are still basking in the memory of the wonderful Human Rights Conference that we attended a few weeks ago there in Chicago. It is difficult to find expression that will adequately describe our joy and humble appreciation for having witnessed a miniature of what our Faith ‘in the forefront of all progressive movements’ can achieve in this country, when its members are truly united in an effort to initiate and inspire practical methods of destroying our common enemies: existing forms of oppression, inhumanity, and bigotry.

“This conference, we believe, served as an intelligent and dignified medium of promulgating, teaching, presenting, and dramatizing many Baha’i principles, aspirations, and goals to. a large number of influential people who might not have had the inclination or challenge to otherwise investigate the dynamic teachings of the Faith. These people in turn, we feel, will be the means of propagating and giving the Faith widespread and far reaching attention throughout this country. As a matter of fact, we received several calls referring us to October 4th’s edition of “Muhammad Speaks,” an article about Mr. Peter MacDonald’s address in which our NABOHR sponsorship of the Human Rights Conference was acknowledged.

“Further, in disclosing and establishing a bond of mutual interest between Bahd’is and non-Bahda’is in the cause of human rights, this conference also provided Baha’is with a greater and much _ needed incentive to delve into and become more intimately acquainted with the Baha'i Writings, with the systematized directives and comprehensive works of our beloved Shoghi Effendi, to equip them to meet the challenges and to facilitate the development of the established Baha’i institutions ‘destined to arise upon the ruins of tottering institutions of present day civilization.’

“This conference, we believe, will be a means of dispelling the myth that the Faith is just another subtle

7

and sophisticated scheme to ensnare the intellectual middle class black people to further subjugation, another ‘institution’ for black people to ‘role-play’ in the perpetuation of white supremacy . .. Although we are under no illusions that the Faith confers upon its members immunity from tests and difficulties, we hope that our suffering would be as a result of our championing the Cause of Baha’u’llah, for showing our sense of justice and a preference for the cause of the oppressed, rather than the oppressor... . We know from the many comments of praise, commending the Baha’is on their forthright and outspoken stand on human rights, coming from the guest speakers and participants, that this conference was an instrument vindicating the Faith in the eyes of these people from ill-founded accusations.

“

. The warm and friendly atmosphere that sur-: rounded us seemed to even penetrate the walls of the building. It induced a free flowing interchange of ideas and recommendations. . .. The members of the several racial minority groups were relaxed and seemed -uninhibited by the presence of white participants. They spoke frankly and openly, in family style, on emotionally charged and extremely delicate subjects to a spiritually attuned, attentive, and lovingly responsive audience. Paradoxically, even some of the hotel residents, who did not attend the sessions, seemed infected by the spirit and not only queried us about the conference, but also requested literature on the Faith.

“Through the guest speakers’ articulate and scholarly discourses on the various aspects of human rights in which they were daily engaged, we were provided with a deeper understanding and insight into the many complexities and problems with which they were confronted such as: the continuous duplicity of “the establishment,” institutionalized racism, paternalism and its deterrent and restrictive influence on self-determination among minority ethnic group communities.

“Although the Baha’i speakers were outnumbered, the sum total of their messages were nonetheless potent. Each one stood out like a lantern on a dark night welcoming and guiding men to a permanent peace and security. As they spoke, we were reminded of our commitments to God, through the mandates of our Faith and, thus, to our fellowman. We were made aware of the magnanimity of our purpose and the magnitude of tasks still unfulfilled and yet to be accomplished... .

“”.. We are hopeful that this conference will serve as a model of future events and Baha’{ gatherings.

“ Tf ye meet the abased or the down-trodden, turn not away disdainfully from them, for the King of Glory ever watcheth over them and surroundeth them with such tenderness as none can fathom except them that have suffered their wishes and desires to be merged in the Will of your Lord, the Gracious, the All-Wise. . . Flee not from the face of the poor . nay rather befriend him and suffer him to recount the'tale of the woes with which God’s inscrutable Decree hath caused him to be afflicted. By the righteousness of God! Whilst ye consort with him, the Concourse on high will be looking upon you, will be interceding for you, will be extolling your names and glorifying your action .. .” (Gleanings, page 314)

Prayerfully, Naomi Oden Ernestine White [Page 8]8 MARCH 1969



more adult Bahda’is in one civil area electing, or forming by joint declaration, the local spiritual assembly at Ridvan. Future steps of study and training in the principles and methods of Baha’i administration, unfoldment of those powers, capacities and responsibilities with which Baha’u’ll4h has entrusted the community of the Greatest Name, never can be realized if the local institution cannot be formed, or, once formed, unable to go further because of the loss of the requisite number of believers.


_ TEACHING AND CONSOLIDATION


How Much Longer?

The development of local and national Baha’i communities throughout the world stands as the central theme of the Formative Age of the Bahai Dispensation. The Faith of Baha’u’llah will not be fulfilled in the multiplication of believers, but in the creation of an ordered society — local, national and worldwide.

The term “community development” covers many steps in this great process, but the process is one and the goal should be kept clearly in sight.

For example, the first step is the group of nine or

An appeal is once again made to those believers who are able to do so, to move to an area where a local spiritual assembly is in jeopardy, or a new one is striving to be formed on April 21. Listed below are the 29 jeopardized local spiritual assemblies, and 64 large goal groups with fewer than nine adults, which are in need of homefront settlers. How much longer will you deprive yourself of the bounty, in this early period of the Formative Age, to serve on a local spiritual assembly?

Jeopardized Assemblies

STATE ASSEMBLY ADULT BELIEVERS STATE ASSEMBLY ADULT BELIEVERS NORTHEASTERN STATES CENTRAL STATES (Con.) New Jersey North Plainfield 8 North Dakota Fargo 8 New York Amherst Township 8 Ohio North Olmsted 6 Babylon Township 8 South Dakota Sioux Falls 8 Town of Tonowanda 6 Yonkers 8 WESTERN STATES Rhode Island Providence 8 Arizona Verde Valley 7 California Alturas 8 SOUTHERN STATES Compton J.D. 8 Arkansas Rogers 7 Los Gatos 8 Kentucky Louisville 8 Pacifica 7 Texas Bellaire 7 Santa Maria 8 University Park 6 Colorado Arvada 8 Aurora oD CENTRAL STATES New Mexico McKinley County 6 Illinois Downers Grove Twp. 8 Washington Bellevue 8 Kansas Salina 7 Franklin Cnty,Comm. Dist.No.3 8 Michigan Ypsilanti 7 Issaquah 8 Minnesota Olmsted County 8 Large Goal Groups STATE GROUP ADULT BELIEVERS STATE GROUP ADULT BELIEVERS NORTHEASTERN STATES SOUTHERN STATES Alabama Auburn 7 Maine Kittery 7 Arkansas Fayetteville 7 Massachusetts Brookline 8 Florida Key West 7 Greenfield 7 Riviera Beach 7 New Hampshire Hinsdale 7 Tallahasee 8 Hudson 8 Louisiana Slidell 7 New Jersey Hackensack 8 Texas Arlington 8 Paterson 7 Lubbock 7 Springfield 7 New York Besson 7 CENTRAL STATES Town of Yorktown 7 Illinois Edwardsville 7 Vermont Burlington 8 Northbrook 8 [Page 9]REVIEW

STATE

Illinois

Iowa Michigan Missouri

South Dakota

Wisconsin

Arizona

California

Goals Still to be Opened or Reopened

GROUP CENTRAL STATES (Con.)

Park Forest Park Ridge Peoria Heights Iowa City Sioux City East Lansing Niles Township University City Mapleton Township Muskego Township Oconomowoc Wilson Township WESTERN STATES Chinle Ft. Defiance

Na-Ah-Tee Trading Post

Prescott Belmont Claremont Concord Covina Eureka Freemont Hawthorne

to the Faith in Indian Areas

Florida, Oklahoma, Minnesota,

Nebraska, North Dakota,

South Dakota,

Arizona, Idaho,

Montana, New Mexico,

SOUTHERN STATES

Venus Tahlequah

CENTRAL STATES

Ponemah Red Lake Winnebago Devils Lake Fort Totten Pine Ridge Sisseton Yankton

WESTERN STATES

Fort Apache Keams Canyon Blackfoot Plummer Browning Isleta

SERVICE WIVES:

Did you know that there is a unique housing project for wives of military personnel Kansas — a The housing project is on the site of a deactivated air

Salina,

jeopardized

Large Goal Groups (con.)

ONIN ONIINDIDA

on isolated duty

assembly _ location?

ADULT BELIEVERS

COAININDWOO~WL

STATE GROUP ADULT BELIEVERS

WESTERN STATES (Con.)

California Laguna Beach,

San Clemente, J.D. 7 Livermore 7 Los Gatos, Saratoga, Campbell

J.D. Mountain View Oroville J.D. San Jose, Milpitas,

Alviso J.D. Santa Cruz Santa Paula Saratoga South Gate Ft. Collins Idaho Falls Pocatello Missoula Las Cruces Umatilla County Kent Shelton Snohomish Co. C.D. No. 3 Toppenish

was

Colorado Idaho

Montana New Mexico Oregon Washington

NOMINDONIOYIIYAIANHOO


Aerial view of Schilling Manor Army Community Service Center, at Salina, Kansas, with housing area shown in background.

base and is occupied only by service wives and children, with all the usual facilities for dependents available.

There are many opportunities for teaching the Faith with the added privilege of saving a local spiritual assembly made unusually easy. For further details about this unique opportunity to serve the Faith while your loved one is fulfilling his military obligation, please contact the Local Spiritual Assembly of Salina, Kansas, Post Office Box 1134, Salina, Kansas 67401. [Page 10]10

MARCH 1969

LET'S GET THE JOB DONE ............... BY 1971 AND SCORE A GREATER VICTORY .......... BY 1973

FROM YOUR PRESENT ADDRESS THESE PIONEERING POSTS MAY BE ONLY A FEW STREETS ... OR A FEW STATES DISTANT. PLEASE STUDY THESE PIONEERING OPENINGS CAREFULLY . . . AND PRAYERFULLY ... AND LET GOD BE YOUR GUIDE

IF YOU LIVE IN A BAHA’i COMMUNITY OF MORE THAN FIFTEEN MEMBERS THE PIONEERING

PRIVILEGE MAY BE YOURS. REMEMBER THE WORDS OF THE BELOVED MASTER:

Therefore, the believers of God throughout all the Republics of America, through the divine power, must become the cause of the promotion of heavenly teachings and the establishment of the oneness of humanity. Every one of the important souls must arise, blowing over all parts of America the breath of life conferring upon the people a new spirit, baptizing them with the fire of the love of God, the water of life, and the breaths of the Holy Spirit.

(BWF, pp 420-1)

GOAL CITIES AND TOWNS FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF NEW BAHA'I! LOCALITIES

NORTHEASTERN STATES

CONNECTICUT

Danbury Litchfield Manchester Mystic Naugatuck Norwich

  • Ridgefield

Simsbury Stafford Springs Torrington Waterbury Watertown Willimantic

MAINE

Auburn

Bar Harbor Bethel Biddeford Brooks Dover-Foxcroft Eastport Ellsworth Farmington Fort Kent Hartland Norway

Old Town Orland Presque Isle Rockland Waterville

MASSACHUSETTS

Adams Andover Auburn Fall River Fitchburg Gardner Lawrence New Bedford Norton Sharon Somerset Spencer Taunton Ware

NEW HAMPSHIRE

Berlin Charlestown Colebrook Derry Franklin Hanover Lebanon New London North Conway

  • Raymond

Salem Wilton

NEW JERSEY

Belleville Bound Brook

NEW JERSEY

Burlington Camden Denville East Brunswick Garfield Glassboro Griggstown Hackettstown Hammonton Lawrence Township Linden Madison Middlesex Millville Morristown Pennington Phillipsburg Rahway Tenafly Verona Vineland

WEST NEW YORK

Auburn

Batavia

Corning Cortland Elmira

Geneseo Hornell

Ilion

Malone Massena

Olean

Oneida Salamanca Town of Arcadia Town of Alabama Utica

Wellsville

PENNSYLVANIA

Bloomsburg Chambersburg DuBois Hazeltown Indiana Johnstown Lewistown Lock Haven Meadville Millersville New Castle Reading Stroudsburg York Washington Williamsport

RHODE ISLAND

Barrington Bristol

Central Falls Coventry

East Greenwich

RHODE ISLAND

Gloucester Johnston Lincoln Smithfield

South Kingstown Tiverton

West Warwick Westerly Woonsocket

VERMONT

Fair Haven Hardwick Ludlow Montpelier Morrisville Newport

St. Albans

St. Johnsbury Springfield Stowe Vergennes White River Jct. Woodstock

SOUTHERN STATES

ALABAMA

Anniston Atmore

Bay Minette Bessemer Boaz

Center Point Cullman Decatur Demopolis Dothan Florence Foley Greenville Headland Jackson Jacksonville Marion Phenix City Prattville Selma Sylacauga Talledega Wilmer

ARKANSAS

Batesville

Bella Vista Benton Blytheville Booneville Camden Cherokee Village Conway

ARKANSAS (con.)

Crossett Forest City Greenville Harrison Magnolia Malvern Monticello Morrilton Mountain Home Newport Paragould Russellville Stuttgart Texarkana

  • Warren

West Memphis

DELAWARE

Bellefonte Bridgeville Clayton Delaware City Georgetown Harrington Kent County Laurel

Lewes Middletown Milford

Milton

Odessa Rehoboth Beach Seaford Selbyville Smyrna Sussex County

FLORIDA

Arlington

Belle Glade Carol City Chattahoochee Cocoa

Dania

Daytona Beach De Land

Eau Gallie

Fort Pierce Fort Walton Beach Indiantown Jacksonville Beach Kissimmee Lake City

Lake Worth Leesburg Melbourne Miami Springs Ocala

Palatka Panama City Pembroke Pines Pensacola Pinellas Park Plant City Sanford

Stuart

Venice

Venus

SOUTHERN STATES

FLORIDA (Con.)

Vero Beach Warrington West Hollywood West Pensacola

GEORGIA

Americus Bainbridge Barnesville Brunswick Cartersville Chattahoochee County Cordele Gainesville Garden City Grovetown Macon Monroe Moultrie Rome Statesboro Thomasville Tifton

Warm Springs Warner Robbins Washington Waycross

KENTUCKY

Belleview Campbellsville Covington Elizabethtown Fort Thomas Frankfort Glasgow Henderson Madisonville Maysville Middlesboro Morehead Newport Owensboro Paris Richmond Winchester

LOUISIANA

Abbeville

Arabi

Baker

Bastrop

Bogalusa

Covington

Denham Springs

Donaldsonville

East Baton Rouge Parish

Eunice

Gonzales

Goosport

Hammond

Harvey

LOUISIANA (con.) NORTH CAROLINA

Houma Jennings Kenner

  • Lafayette

Minden Morgan City New Iberia Opelousas Tallulah Thibodaux

MARYLAND

Aberdeen Annapolis Bel Air Cambridge Centerville Cristield Cumberland Denton Easton Elkton Emittsburg Frederick

  • Frostburg

Gaithersburg Hagerstown Havre de Grace La Plata Leonardtown Oakland Ocean City Port Deposit Prince Frederick Princess Anne Queenstown Snow Hill Stevensville Upper Marlboro Westminster

MISSISSIPPI

Biloxi Brookhaven Cleveland Columbus Corinth Forest Greenwood Holly Springs Kosciusko Laurel Leland McComb Meridian Natchez Oxford Pascagoula Picayune Philadelphia Raymond Starkville Tupelo Vicksburg Yazoo City

Ahoskie Asheboro Boone Clinton Concord Cullowhee Dobson

Eden Elizabeth City Goldsboro Henderson Henersonville Hickory Jacksonville Kinston Laurinburg Lumberton Marion Monroe Morehead City Murphy Salisbury Smithfield Washington Wilmington Wilson

OKLAHOMA

Altus Ardmore

  • Bartlesville

Bristow Chandler Chickasaw Claremore Elk City Enid Guthrie Langston McAlester Miami Ponca City Sand Springs Sapulpa Shawnee Skiatook Stillwater Tahlequah Tecumseh Weatherford

SOUTH CAROLINA

Abbeville Aiken Allendale Bamberg Beaufort Camden Cheraw Chester Conway Georgetown Greenwood Hartsville Kingstree Lancaster Laurens Leesville [Page 11]REVIEW

SOUTH CAROLINA

(con.)

Manning Newberry Orangeburg Seneca Sumter Walterboro Whitmire York

TENNESSEE

Arlington Bristol Brownsville Brunswick Clarksville Cleveland Collegedale Cookeville Covington Dyersburg Harrogate Humboldt Jackson Jamestown Lexington Manchester Maryville Millington Pulaski Rockwood Sewanee Smithville Spring City Union City Woodbury

EAST TEXAS

Angleton Athens

Bay City Beeville Brady Brenham Bridgeport | Carrizo Springs Columbus Ennis Edinburg Freeport Hillsboro Huntsville Kerrville Lampasas Laredo Lockhart Longview Lufkin Mineral Wells New Braunfels Paris

  • Port Arthur

Prairie View Rockdale Taylor Temple Texas City Uvalde Vernon Victoria

WEST TEXAS

Alpine Ballinger Borger Brownfield Canyon Clarendon Colorado City Dalhart Dumas

El Dorado Fort Stockton Lamesa Levelland Marfa Monohans Pampa Plainview Pecos Snyder Sonora Sweetwater Van Horn

GOAL CITIES AND TOWNS FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF NEW BAHA'I LOCALITIES CENTRAL STATES

VIRGINIA

Blacksburg Clifton Forge Culpepper Falls Church Farmville Fredericksburg Front Royal Hampton Harrisonburg Highland Springs Lawrenceville Leesburg Lexington Marion Martinsville Nassawadox Norton Radford Ruckersville Salem

South Boston Westmoreland County Winchester Wytheville

WEST VIRGINIA

Boone County Buckhannon Clarksburg Clendenin Elkins

Glenville Hamlin

Logan Martinsburg Mercer County Moundsville New Martinsville Richwood Romney

White Sulphur Springs Wyoming County

CENTRAL STATES

SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Anna Beardstown Cairo Carlinville Centralia Chillicothe Clinton Galesburg Greenville Jacksonville Jerseyville Lebanon Leland Grove Litchfield Mahomet Marion McComb Rochester Taylorville

INDIANA

Auburn Clinton Connelton Decatur Fowler Frankfort Greencastle Greensburg Huntington Jasper Lebanon Liberty New Castle North Vernon Plymouth Portland Rushville Sullivan Vincennes Versailles

IOWA

Atlantic Burlington Centerville Charles City Cherokee Creston Correctionville Ft. Dodge Ft. Madison Manchester Manson Mason City Nevada Oskaloosa Red Oak Spencer

KANSAS

Arkansas City Atchison Chanute Coffeeville Colby Concordia Dodge City Ft. Scott Garden City Great Bend Hays Liberal Manhattan McPherson Newton Ottawa Parsons Phillipsburg Pittsburg Pratt

Scott City

MINNESOTA

Atkin

Austin Crookston Fairbault Fergus Falls Houston International Falls Morris

New Ulm Ponemah Red Lake Rousseau

St. James Virginia Willmar Winona Worthington

MISSOURI

Boonville Cape Girardeau Carthage Caruthersville Chillicothe Clinton Farmington Fulton Jefferson City Liberty Lebanon Marshall Mexico Moberly Perryville Poplar Bluff Sedalia Sikeston

  • Trenton

Warrensburg Washington

NEBRASKA

Alliance Beatrice Columbus Chadron Falls City Hastings Kearney McCook

  • Goal already filled since Ridvan 1968

Localities in bold type represent goals in American Indian reservation areas

NEBRASKA (contd. )

Nebraska City Norfolk

North Platt Scottsbluff Schuyler Valentine Winnebago

NORTH DAKOTA

Beach Bismarck Carrington Devils Lake Dickinson Ellendale Ft. Totten Garrison Grafton Mandan Minot Mott

New Town Pembina Rolla Williston

OHIO

Alliance Ashland Ashtabula Bellefontaine Chillicothe Conneaut Coshocton Defiance Delaware East Liverpool Fairview Park Hiram Lancaster Lorain Marietta Marion Mount Vernon New Philadelphia Norwalk Portsmouth Ravenna Steubenville Tiffin Washington Court House Westerville Wilberforce Wooster

  • Yellow Springs

Zanesville

SOUTH DAKOTA

Aberdeen Brookings Chamberlain Huron

Lead

SOUTH DAKOTA (contd.)

Lemmon Pierre Pine Ridge Sisseton Spearfish Springfield Sturges Watertown Yankton

WESTERN STATES

ARIZONA

Ajo

Avondale Bisbee Buckeye

Casa Grande Eloy

Florence

Ft. Apache Gila Bend Globe

Grand Canyon Keams Canyon Lake Havasu City Nogales

Page

Peoria Safford-Thatcher Sedona Springerville Superior Wickenburg Williams

COLORADO

Craig Glenwood Springs

  • Gunnison

LaJunta

Lamar

Longmont Montrose

Pagosa Springs Rangely Steamboat Springs Sterling

Trinidad

IDAHO

American Falls Blackfoot Burley Gooding Grangeville Kellogg Montpelier Mountain Home Plummer Potlatch Preston Rexburg Salmon Sandpoint

St. Anthony

WW

WESTERN STATES

MONTANA UTAH Anaconda Beaver Broadus Blanding Browning Brigham City Conrad Cedar City Dillon Farmington Glasgow Green River Glendive Heber Kalispell Kanab Laurel Moab Lewistown Price Libby Richfield Polson St. George Shelby Toole Townsend Vernal Thompson Falls Wendover NEVADA EASTERN Babbitt WASHINGTON Battle Mountain Colfax Carlin Colville Dayton Connell Ely Dayton Fallon Deer Park Hawthorne Easton Lovelock Ellensburg Lyon County Ephrata Minden Grandview Reno Rural Lind Area-North Odessa Tonopah Omak Wells Oroville Othello Ritzville NEW MEXICO Selah Sprague

  • Bernalillo Sunnyside

Carlsbad Tanasket Chuska Wenatchee Clovis Deming Fort Wingate WESTERN Grants WASHINGTON Hobbs Algona Isleta *Anacortes Los Alamos County aypburn Madrid Chehalis Portales Hoquiam Roswell

Santa Rosa Silver City Springer

OREGON

Albany Bend Florence Gold Beach Gresham Lakeview Lebanon

  • Monmouth

Ontario Oregon City Roseburg Seaside

Jefferson County Medina Mukilteo

Port Orchard Port Townsend Puyallup Raymond

Sedro Wooley Snohomish Tumwater

WYOMING

Buffalo Douglas Lander Medicine Bow Rawlins

Rock Springs

MAIL THIS PIONEERING POSTSCRIPT OR WRITE TO: National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of the United States 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091

MY NAME IS


MY ADDRESS IS

MY COMMUNITY IS

THE PIONEERING POST I MAY BE ABLE TO FILL IS





MY ALTERNATE CHOICE IS

Signature

(TOWN AND STATE)



[Page 12]12


BELOVED BROTHERS AND SISTERS: The youth Fund goal is $100,000 by

Ridvan, 1969. And Ridvan is less

than two months away.

Serviceman's Response

A young American serviceman stationed in Japan writes, “My Dear Baha’i Friends, The warmth of your -request melted a heart which has not as yet become fully liquidated to the Most Desirable Cause in the world—the Cause of Baha’u’llah. That heart is mine!

“This contribution ‘hurts,’ believe me, for it was already subject to ‘sacrifice’ in order to be placed into savings for my future college. However, I realize there is no better way to secure my future than to presently help secure the future of the world; and this can only be done through the Light of Baha’u’llah!

“Truly, this can only be counted as the smallest and most minute of all ‘sacrifices’ for as yet I have not sacrificed enough of my very self to be worthy of being counted even in the lowest ranks of men...

“Please accept this slight contribution toward the youth goal, for in the truth of love I give it....”

Nationwide Youth Consultation

Consultation on the Fund at the November, 1968, Area Youth Conferences was mature and intense. The following are excerpts from the many workshop reports:

Alabama—The act of contributing regularly would develop order, steadfastness and a sense of responsibility.

Georgia—We must give to Fund in the spirit of love.

Illinois—One sacrifices relative to the significance he holds for the thing he sacrifices for; therefore, if we make added effort to teach Baha’u’lldh’s Cause and to deepen, our love and understanding shall increase, and giving to the Fund will only seem a meager token of love.

the

Mississippi—If we receive a regular allowance per week or month, we can set aside a designated amount for each Fund (local and national). Within our 19-day Baha’i month, we can sacrifice our leisure time (at least one evening) for babysitting and contribute this money to both Funds.

New Mexico—The big things (like selling the $200 guitar) should be combined with the little things (like sacrificing acoke). Spend the money on the basic things life requires, but when it comes to luxuries, Baha’u’llah comes first. Ask yourself when luxuries come up (1) if I didn’t have this, could I do without it? (2) can I make do with what I have? (3) which do I love more — Baha’u’llah or my luxuries?

Pennsylvania—Students who do not have money could give service to their Baha’i community. If nothing else can be given, time can be given: better use of one’s time and arrangement of schedule can leave time for teaching on campus.

South Dakota—Let’s have a nationwide day of prayer for the youth Fund goal.

Tennessee—To increase Fund contributions, a tested and practical method is to put the loose change in one’s pocket aside at each day’s end.

Wisconsin—The question came up that perhaps the goal the National Spiritual Assembly set for us was too high. We discussed this, and it was noted that the National Spiritual Assembly consists of nine people who had, no doubt, more facts than we do about the money situation of the youth and also that it wasn’t really all the emphasis on how much you give, but how full of love your gift is. Even if we don’t reach the goal, we can do as much as we can and then be satisfied with the knowledge that we did our best. Tosum it up, it was noted that in giving and giving regularly, one gets his life in rhythm with the Faith; it’s sort of like a spiral where as you orient and focus your life in the direction of God, the more God-conscious you become and the more you focus your life in this direction.

The Guardian’s Plea In 1951 the beloved Guardian issued a plea to the American Baha’is, reminding them of their impelling responsibilities as “spiritual descendants of the dawnbreakers”: “No sacrifice can be deemed too great, no expenditure of material resources, no degree of renunciation of worldly benefits, comfort and pleasures, can be regarded as excessive when we recall the precious blood that

MARCH 1969

flowed, the many lives that were snuffed out, the wealth of material possessions that was plundered during these most tumultuous and cataclysmic years of the Heroic Age of our Faith.” (Citadel of Faith, p. 93)

Beloved friends, can we — following in their footsteps, standing on their shoulders — fail to respond?

Odds 'n Ends

@ The Baha'i Club of the University of Oklahoma organized a clothing drive for the Central State Mental Hospital in Norman, Oklahoma, which is always in great need of all types of clothing. The Club arranged for publicity in the University newspaper, including an initial interview and follow-up reminders. Over 50 boxes were collected and_ placed, along with posters, in the student dormitories. The clothing drive, aimed primarily at University students, was so successful that calls were received from donors in the Norman community itself.

@ The Sonoma State Off-Campus Bahai Club (in northern California) provided a Baha'i speaker for a Latter-Day Saints meeting, sent the Human Rights pamphlet to college department heads, sent a letter to all official campus organizations asking them to engage in unity-creating activities, had one declaration which opened a new Baha’i locality, and is currently planning to invite the entire student body to a Naw-Ruz feast at the college cafeteria.

@ The Department of Youth and College Activities has already responded to 25 requests for high school club constitutions — and the goal for the entire Five Year Program is only 20 clubs!

@ If you did not receive a packet of Area Youth Conference materials (November, 1968), containing information on the achievement of the Five Year Youth Program goals, contact the DYCA. We have extras.

@ Do you want to go to college or to pioneer in a homefront goal area? Just write DYCA, 112 Linden Ave., Wilmette, Ill. 60091, for more information.

@ The Department of Youth and College Activities needs PICTURES (black-and-white, glossy) of all sorts, shapes, and sizes of youth and youth activities. Help! [Page 13]REVIEW

BAHA’U’LLAH “Glory of God”

Born in Tihran, the capital of iran, on November 12, 1817 He proclaimed His Mission as bearer of the Word of God for this day in the Garden of Ridvan, near Baghdad on April 21, 1863.

ROMANIA BLACK

ee BULGARIA ¥ SEq Oeste ap

g CAUCASUS oy os < Z Adrianople\ ~~-- Amasia'

They tortured, exiled and


i : d Hi 2 Gili Sivas ee B

. of Sma Kharou! > imprisoned Him ( Nsmyena "Og eset He passed away \ Y Martin Mos,

\ inhi ‘Sulaymaniyyi inten in the Holy Land] *eoireegsnjay°™ tihng) e-eTehe WAN seq ig Aka Rermanshah .

near Akka in 1892.

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PERSIA


MAP JANUARY 1. 1886

“In that day also He shall come even to thee from Assyria; and from the fortified cities, and from the fortress even to the river, and from sea to sea, and from mountain to

mountain.” Micah 7:12

  • prophet-Founder of the BAHA'I FAITH

Proclamation poster, one of a series of four, suitable for exhibits of all types, singly or as a unit. The posters are printed in blue on heavy white paper, are about 18 by 24 inches, and are available for $2.00 a set from Bahai Distribution and Service Department in Wilmette.

“A World in Harmony” Radio Series

About two years ago the National Radio and Television Committee (now a part of the Public Information Department) produced a set of 26 radio tapes, each 15 minutes in duration with the overall title of “A World In Harmony.” Each tape consists of popular recording artists featuring songs of brotherhood, the oneness of mankind and similar inspirational themes. The music of the Baha’i Victory Chorus is included throughout the programs and Baha’i messages are appropriately woven into the musical introductions.

Since its initial appearance two years ago the series has made a slow but steady growth in the number of radio stations using the programs. A recent letter from the Publicity Chairman of the Victor Judicial District Baha’i Community in California indicates that yet another station will broadcast the series. This is Radio Station KCIN, Victorville, California which starting January 12th is broadcasting the series on Sundays

between 10 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. The letter reports “that.

KCIN likes the series, “because they are a Country and Western Music station, but have an hour of local church sermons, etc. from 9 to 10 and feel our tapes will make a good transition from the church-type program to their

13


125th Anniversary of the Baha’ Faith

On May 28rd of this year we will celebrate the 125th Anniversary of the Founding of the Baha'i Faith. However Baha’i communities can utilize this anniversary all during the year in their publicity and proclamation on behalf of the Faith. A special event for May 23rd in connection with the Declaration of the Bab, can also use the theme that this is the 125th birthday of the Baha’i Faith. The Public Information Department will provide Public Information Representatives and Baha’i Communities with additional information and ideas on utilizing the 125th Anniversary for proclamation and publicity.


music.” In this case the radio station is putting on the programs without cost.

Ten tapes of the series were also used starting January 12th over Radio Station KGEZ, Kalispell, Montana on Sundays at 8:15 a.m. This is the first time that Baha’f has been mentioned on this station. In this case an isolated Baha’f paid for the series to appear on radio. If a better time during the week can be secured the series will be continued.

Baha’i communities which have not looked into using The World In Harmony series should consider the use of this proclamation tool for the Faith. Communities or groups can purchase a sample tape for $3.00 and with the tape they will receive complete instructions on how to approach radio stations on the series. The complete of set of 26 tapes costs $59 and is available (as is the sample tape) from Baha'i Distribution and Service Department.

Notes

@ A Free University was organized on the campus of Northwestern University in January 1969 and one of the courses selected to be given was the Baha'i Faith and its teachings. The course is being conducted under the Auspices of the Public Information Department and utilizes Bahdé’i speakers from the surrounding area.

@ Hopper Papers, a paper manufacturing company, has a sample catalog of a paper stock named Rotunda which carries a large photo of the Baha’i House of Worship in Wilmette on the cover.

@ Baha’is should be very careful to check the exact words of quotations from the Bahai Writings when they are used in public articles or advertisements. For example one poster put out by a Baha’i Community for World Religion Day had the quotation: “The world is one country; and mankind its citizens.” This is incorrect. It should have read: “The earth is but one

country; and mankind its citizens.” [Page 14]14

MARCH 1969


Where Our Dollars Go A series presented by the Coordinating Committee for the Fund


The Baha'i House of Worship

“This unique edifice, the first fruit of a slowly maturing Administrative Order, the noblest structure reared in the first Bahai century, and the symbol and _ precursor of a future world civilization . this great ‘Silent Teacher’ of the Faith of Baha’u’llah . 1 the Guardian wrote, “ . must likewise be made to play its part, and contribute its share to the teaching campaign designed to embrace the entire Western Hemisphere.” 2

The very existence of the House of Worship releases “tremendous spiritual energy,” and the number of visitors attracted each year continues to increase at an accelerated rate. The number in 1967 was 8 percent greater than 1966. In 1968 more than 150,000 visitors streamed through the House of Worship, an 11 percent increase over 1967. More than 400 special group tours were conducted in 1968 including parochial and public school classes, clubs, university groups, foreign students, scout troops from both America and foreign countries, and many church groups. Visitors come from every one of the 50 states and many foreign countries.

This increasing number of visitors presents us with a tremendous teaching opportunity. Concerned that the full teaching potential of the House of Worship be realized, the National Spiritual Assembly placed the activities of the House of Worship within the Public Information Department and established the House of Worship Office headed by the Director of Activities. The Director is aided by a fulltime assistant whose main responsibility is coordinating the training and scheduling of the many volunteer workers without which the House of Worship could not function. Several committees assist the Director in planning and carrying out the various activities. The Worship Committee selects readings, conducts readers’ workshops, and monitors each of the Sunday afternoon Devotional Programs and Holy Day observances. The public meetings committee

Bahai House of Worship Advisory Board, left to right: Mrs. Joan Lincoln, Al Lincoln, vice chairman, Mrs. Louise Wold, secretary, Salvatore Pelle, and Russell Busey, chairman.


plans and conducts the weekly lectures in Foundation Hall and the question-and-answer period that follows in the Fireside Room. Refreshments are served at special programs by the Hospitality Committee. The Guides and Ushers Committees assist the House of Worship Office in recruiting, training and scheduling their respective volunteers. The members of these committees serve many long hours to carry out their various activities.

In October of 1968, the National Spiritual Assembly appointed a House of Worship Advisory Board and assigned to it the responsibility of periodically reviewing the operation of House of Worship activities and recommending whatever policies or improvements are believed necessary.

Visitors to the House of Worship are greeted at the entrance to the Auditorium and are given a brochure, but no tours are conducted through it since it is a place of prayer and meditation. Most visitors, attracted first by the uniqueness of the building, are deeply impressed with the beauty and spiritual atmosphere of the House of Worship. As they leave the Auditorium, most accept the invitation to visit the Foundation Area where they may learn about the meaning of the House of Worship and the Baha’i Faith.

The program approved last year by the National Spiritual Assembly calls for a series of alterations in the Foundation Area to:

1) improve the flow-pattern and eliminate areas of

congestion,

2) close off the area not open to visitors,

3) improve the general appearance of the area seen

by visitors, and

4) expand and improve the teaching displays.

Many efforts are being made to complete these changes by the summer of 1969. Volunteers have come many miles to offer their special talents to the project.

Construction is underway to delineate new exhibit area. Work by Bahd’i volunteers Pat Thomson, left, and Paul Brown of Topeka, Kansas, is viewed by Mary Kurrus, assistant director, and Russell Busey, director, House of Worship office.


[Page 15]REVIEW


Unable to afford completely new displays this year, House of Worship staff and Baha’i volunteers are remodeling the present displays to meet the demands of the approaching summer season.

Despite the large increase in visitors and activities at the House of Worship over the last few years, the budget for House of Worship activities of $21,000 (separate from the budget for maintaining the building and grounds) has remained about the same for several years. This represents less than 2 cents of every dollar contributed so sacrificially for the many needs of the Faith. If we are to meet the tremendous teaching challenge of the Nine Year Plan at the House of Worship and meet the expectations of our Guardian, not only must there be a substantial increase in the number of Baha’i volunteers (especially during the summer season when the Temple is open 11 hours every day), but the budget for the House of Worship activities will need to be increased. And this depends on the increased flow of funds from the believers throughout the United States.

The beloved Guardian called the Baha’i House of Worship “the tangible evidence of the power of the American Baha’i Community, few in numbers, but mighty in the spirit they draw from their Faith.”3 The House of Worship was built and must now be served out of love, devotion and sacrifice.

1 God Passes By, p. 350 2 Advent of Divine Justice, p. 40 3 Baha’i News, Aug. 1942, p.2

RIVERSIDE BAHA'IS PROMOTE "FUND SHOP"

The Baha’is of Riverside have set aside one room in their Center and have labeled this room “The Fund Shop”. Members of the community donate useful items of all kinds, sizes, and varieties for sale to other Baha’is — you can pick up such things as clothing, articles of jewelry, knickknacks, chairs, books — you name it! All items are serviceable and so priced by their former owner that they may sell quickly and be considered a bargain by the lucky Baha'i buyer. All the proceeds raised through “Fund Shop” sales go to support the National Baha’i. Fund.

To kick off the first grand sale night, the Baha’is held a turkey dinner and invited two neighboring communities to partake of fun and good fellowship. As a result, the National Fund will benefit by approximately $155, after expenses, from this “Fun-Fund Nite”. So many good comments were received that a sequel to this evening is planned for the Ayydm-i-HA Intercalary Days, and a drive is now being planned’ to secure more articles for sale, and the next “Fun Nite” may feature. in addition to the good fellowship ... games, movies and other surprises.

Does your community have a novel idea which has been used or is being considered to assist the National Baha’i Fund as has been done by the Bahda’fs of Riverside? If so, the Coordinating Committee for the Fund would like to hear your idea so that it can be considered for publication in the National Baha’i Review. Please write in care of the National Baha’1 Center.







15 ‘ ae Thausand National Baha'i Fund $ Cumulative Monthly Income: 1968-1969 1,200 “ “" },f00 sa PLAN & > 1,000 900 800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 Tv T v T v v l q ASO > @ > ws « £ = 6 ¢€ B gE 233 2<¢3626 48 3 ¢ INCOME FOR JANUARY 1969 Regular Contributions ©2000... eee $ 68,044.87 Special Contributions 2.00.00... 0... eee 2,800.00 Total Contributions ......................... 70,844.87 Estates 0 eee eee 4,751.46 Other Income ©0006 ee 2,739.22 Total Income ..... 2.0.6. $ 78,335.55 Cumulative Total, April |-February | .........$807,342.48 Cumulative Deficit ................... $207,657.52 NUMBER OF ASSEMBLIES CONTRIBUTING SJANUArY, wes ss pwr a ys ewes yw Our a wo covimes ws 284 (72 percent of total)

PLANNING TO MOVE DURING THE NEXT 30 DAYS? Help us keep your address up-to-date CUT OUT AND MAIL TO:

ATIONAL BAHA’!I CENTER 112 LINDEN AVENUE, WILMETTE, ILL. 60091


ATTACH YOUR OLD ADDRESS LABEL HERE




NEW Address.

QO =: <

State Zip

Zz z oH 2. oO oT => ° 3 @

Area

Lt tg Zz a 3 o

i Name of new locality:

(If different from city name)

Reminder: Have you ALSO notified your community and SGC secretaries of your new address? [Page 16]16


Mrs. Elizabeth Gibson, Chairman of the State Goals Committee presents a copy of The Proclamation of Baha’u’llah to Mayor Florence Douglas of Vallejo, California. Accompanying Mrs. Gibson were Mrs. Frances Heller, Knight of Bahda’w'llah from San Rafael, Calif. and Miss Trina Gil, pioneer from Venezuela. The three Bahd’is and Mayor Douglas discussed world conditions and she promised to read the book immediately.


Housing Information for the

U.S. National Convention

The National Convention of the Baha’is of the United States will be held from April 24 (Thursday evening) through Sunday afternoon April 27, 1969. At this time it cannot be stated whether or not any meals will be served in Foundation Hall, but an announcement on that subject will be made later to the delegates and the local spiritual assemblies as well as in the National Baha’i Review for April. The following list of hotels and motels in the Wilmette area includes rates, address and telephone numbers. It is important that those planning to attend make reservations early

HOTELS IN EVANSTON Orrington Hotel; 1710 Orrington Avenue; UN 4-8700. Single $9.00 to $18.00; double $14.00 to $24.00. Evanshire Hotel; 860 Hinman’ Avenue; UN 4-8800. Single $9.00; double beginning at $11.00, twin $13.00. Library, Plaza Hotel; 1637 Orrington Avenue; UN 4-8000. Single $10.82 tax included; double $14.94 tax included. North Shore Hotel; 1611 Chicago Avenue; UN 4-6400. Single $10.50; twin $14.00. YMCA Hotel; 1000 Grove Street; GR 5-7400. Men only. $4.25 per night. Evanston Inn; 840 Forest Ave.; UN 4-5000; Single $11.50 Double $12.50; $2.00 each additional person.

MOTELS

Admiral Oasis; 9355 Waukegan Road; Morton Grove; YO 54000. Single $10.00; double $12.00; $2.00 each additional person. Holiday Inn; Edens at Lake-Cook Road, Highland Park; VE 59-4000. Single $13.50; twin $18.50; two double beds $22.00. Hyatt House; 4500 Touhy Avenue; Lincolnwood; 677-5400. Single $17.00 to $23.00; double $23.00 to $29.00. Morton Grove Motel; 9424 Waukegan Road; Morton Grove. YO 5-6400. Single $10.50; double $14.50; Family room (3) $16.50; (4) $18.50. Howard Johnson; 9333 Skokie Ave.; Skokie. 679-4200. Single $14.50 to $16.00; double $17.00 to $21.00. Leaning Tower YMCA; 6000 West Touhy Ave.;. Niles. 6478222. Singles $8.23 and $9.26; twin $11.30. Men and Women.

MARCH 1969


i |

d ings and Grounds for the Bahda’i House of Worship, displayed in Building and Loan Association in Chicago, December 28 through January 18.

In Memoriam

Frederick L. Bowers Kalamazoo, Michigan January 1, 1969

Gerard H. Buschenhenke

Ormond Beach, Florida July 1968

Edgar Edwards Chicago, Illinois December 13, 1968

Mrs. Mildred Edwards Beverly, Mass. December 29, 1968

William H. Hart Geneva, N.Y. January 7, 1969

Mrs. Rosalyn Lichtblau Hollywood, Florida December 30, 1968

William A. McCurdy Lima, Ohio January 19, 1969

Mrs. Della McLean Santa Fe, New Mexico December 25, 1968

Mrs. Emma M. Meyer Grayslake, Illinois December 31, 1968

Mrs. Mary I. H. Neave Hughesville, Maryland December 29, 1968

William M. Parker Ann Arbor, Michigan December 30, 1968

Mrs. Helen M. Pierce San Bernardino, Calif, September 5, 1968

Mrs. Nora M. Poe Oklahoma City, Okla. December 15, 1968

Mrs. Thelma N. Scott San Antonio, Texas November 1968

Cashius T. Thomas Durham, North Carolina December 1968

Robert C. Zindel Milwaukee, Wisconsin January 4, 1969

Calendar of Events

Feasts

March 2—‘Ala’ (Loftiness) March 21—Baha (Splendor)

April 9—Jalal (Glory) April 28—Jamal (Beauty)

Days of Fasting March 2-21

Holy Days

March 21—Naw-Ruz (Baha’i New Year) Feast of Ridvan—April 21-May 2

Proclamation Event

March 21—Naw-Ruz

U.S. National Spiritual Assembly Meeting

March 28-30

U.S. National Baha’i Convention April 24 (evening) through 27

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