National Bahá’í Review/Issue 28/Text

←Previous

National Bahá’í Review Issue 28

Next→

Return to PDF view Proofread once

[Page 1]

The Sole Source of Salvation for Mankind

From time to time believers ask what position Bahá’ís should take on one or another current political issue. In a letter to a Bahá’í on December 8, 1967, the Universal House of Justice dealt with this subject in considerable detail (Wellspring of Guidance, pp. 131-136). Now we are sharing with the members of the United States Bahá’í community the following paragraphs from a letter to the National Spiritual Assemblies of Africa from the Universal House of Justice, February 8, 1970, which will throw further light on the implications of the Bahá’í principle of noninterference in political affairs:

"For long centuries the African Continent, or rather that great part of it which lies south of the Sahara, remained relatively isolated from the rest of the world, untroubled and scarcely touched by the surging conflicts of the nations to the north and east. Now, rapidly emerging into the main stream of international interest, the African peoples, who were compared by Bahá’u’lláh to 'the black pupil of the eye through which the light of the spirit shineth forth,' are being swept by the heady enthusiasms of new-found independence, torn by the conflicting forces of divergent political interests, their vision obscured by the haze of materialism and the dust of nationalistic passions and age-old tribal rivalries.

"In the midst of the storm and stress of the battles of selfish interests being waged about them, stand the followers of the Most Great Name, their sight attracted to the rising Sun of God's Holy Cause, their hearts welded together in a bond of true unity with all the children of men, and their voices raised in a universal song of praise to the Glory of God and the oneness of mankind, calling on their fellow-men to forget and forgo their differences and join them in obedience and service to God's Holy Command in this Day.

"The Army of the Cause, advancing at the bidding of the Lord, to conquer the hearts of men, can never be defeated, but its rate of advance can be slowed down by acts of unwisdom and ignorance on the part of its supporters. We are writing you this letter to help in clarifying some of the issues that have, in the past, blurred the vision of some of the believers, and caused them to commit errors of judgment which have retarded the progress of the Faith in their countries.

The Principle of Noninterference

"One of these issues, and by far the most important, is a lack of appreciation of the implications of the Bahá’í principle of noninterference in political affairs. We find that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and Shoghi Effendi have given us clear and convincing reasons why we must uphold this principle. These reasons are summarized below for the study and deepening of the friends. It is our hope that these observations will not only help the friends to intelligently and radiantly follow the holy teachings on this matter, but will help them to explain the Bahá’í attitude to those who may question its wisdom and usefulness:

The Faith of God is the sole source of salvation for mankind today. The true cause of the ills of humanity is its disunity. No matter how perfect may be the machinery devised by the leaders of men for the political unity of the world, it will still not provide the antidote to the poison sapping the vigor of present-day society. These ills can be cured only through the instrumentality of God's Faith. There are many well-wishers of mankind who devote their efforts to relief-work and charity and to the material well-being of man, but only Bahá’ís can do the work which God most wants done. When we devote ourselves to the work of the Faith we are doing a work which is the greatest aid and only refuge for a needy and divided world.

The Bahá’í Community is a world-wide organization seeking to establish true and universal peace on earth. If a Bahá’í works for one political party to overcome another, it is a negation of the very spirit of the Faith. Membership in any political party, therefore, necessarily entails repudiation of some or all of the principles of peace and unity proclaimed by Bahá’u’lláh. As ‘Abdu’l-Bahá stated: "Our party is God's party; we do not belong to any party."

Unity, Love Not Antagonism

If a Bahá’í were to insist on his right to support a certain political party, he could not deny the same degree of freedom to other believers. This would mean that within the ranks of the Faith, whose primary mission is to unite all men as one great family under God, there would be Bahá’ís opposed to each other. [Page 2]Where, then, would be the example of unity and harmony which the world is seeking?"

"If the institutions of the Faith, God forbid, became involved in politics. the Bahá’ís would find themselves arousing antagonism instead of love. If they took one stand in one country, they would be bound to change the views of the people in another country about the aims and purposes of the Faith. By becoming involved in political disputes, the Bahá’ís instead of changing the world or helping it would themselves be lost and destroyed. The world situation is so confused, and moral issues which were once clear have become so mixed up with selfish and battling factions. that the best way Bahá’ís can serve the highest interests of their country. and the cause of true salvation for the world is to sacrifice their political pursuits and affiliations and wholeheartedly and fully support the divine system of Bahá’u’lláh.

Faith Enjoins Loyalty

The Faith is not opposed to the true interests of any nation. nor is it against any party or faction. It holds aloof from all controversies and transcends them all, while enjoining upon its followers loyalty to government and a sane patriotism. This love for their country the Bahá’ís show by serving its well-being in their daily activity, or by working in the administrative channels of the government instead of through party politics or in diplomatic or political posts. The Bahá’ís may, indeed. are encouraged to, mix with all strata of society. with the highest authorities and with leading personalities as well as with the mass of the people, and should bring the knowledge of the Faith to them; but in so doing they should strictly avoid becoming identified, or identifying the Faith, with political pursuits and party programs."

"So vital is this principle of noninterference in political matters, which must govern the acts and words of Bahá’ís in every land, that Shoghi Effendi has written that 'Neither the charges which the uninformed and the malicious may be led to bring against them, nor the allurements of honors and rewards, would ever induce the true believers to deviate from this path, and that their words and conduct must proclaim that the followers of Bahá’u’lláh are actuated by no selfish ambition, that they neither thirst for power, nor mind any wave of unpopularity. of distrust or criticism, which a strict adherence to their standards might provoke.'

"Difficult and delicate though be our task,' he continues. the sustaining power of Bahá’u’lláh and of His Divine guidance will assuredly assist us, if we follow steadfastly in His way and strive to uphold the integrity of His laws. The light of His redeeming grace, which no earthly power can obscure. will if we persevere, illuminate our path, as we steer our course amid the snares and pitfalls of a troubled age and will enable us to discharge our duties in a manner that would redound to the glory and honor of His blessed Name."

—NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY

Elections and Membership Lists

The decision of the National Spiritual Assembly which terminated the practice of mailing a membership list from the National Bahá’í Center to each individual prior to the State Conventions drew many questions and expressions of disappointment. These questions revealed the slipshod manner in which many believers approach the highly significant function of voting. The prohibitive cost of sending a membership list to each of the believers in the Continental United States influenced the decision to a large extent, particularly in view of the low level of participation in Bahá’í State elections. But the non-economic reasons for the decision need to be considered carefully by all voters.

It is true that a list in hand helps the voter to identify quickly those eligible to be voted for, to spell names correctly, and to remember the complete names for whom he may wish to vote; and it is in these particular respects that the list is valuable. It does not in a real sense tell the conscientious voter whom he should vote for. Shoghi Effendi once stated that the elector "is called upon to vote for none but those whom prayer and reflection have inspired him to uphold." In another instance he instructed delegates to the National Convention "to consider without the least trace of passion and prejudice, and irrespective of any material consideration, the names of only those who can best combine the necessary qualities of unquestioned loyalty, of selfless devotion, of a well-trained mind, of recognized ability and mature experience."

These remarks by the Guardian suggest a course of action on the part of the voter that is often bypassed because of over-reliance on a list of names, which by themselves give no indication of the particular qualifications of any would-be candidate. It appears to be taken for granted during Bahá’í elections that prayer alone is sufficient preparation for voting; that as long as one prays the subsequent chance selection of names from a list provided at the election represents an inspired act. But it is obvious from the Guardian's remarks that far more preparation is required. Prayer alone will not assure the voter that the one for whom he votes "can best combine the necessary qualities of unquestioned loyalty, of selfless devotion, of a well-trained mind, of recognized ability and mature experience." The voter clearly needs to have some knowledge of the person he votes for.

Thus, it can be seen that a Bahá’í election begins with the individual long before the date or the hour at which it is to be consummated in the collective action of the community. It is a process of germination which starts immediately after the last election and is nurtured in the mind of the voter throughout the year by his conscientious efforts to identify in others, for whom he may vote, the qualities described by our beloved Guardian, by his constant endeavor to associate with and know about those for whom he may vote, by his unfailing attentiveness to the developments and needs of the community which suggest at any given time the qualities of service and the range of talents required in would-be administrators of the community. When this process becomes an integral part of the believer's life and is combined with prayer in that "rarefied atmosphere" referred to by Shoghi Effendi in his writings, a real Bahá’í election occurs.

It can be contended that everyone cannot be expected to know all the believers in his community personally, much less in a whole electoral district. But each person can make an effort to meet more and more fellow believers each year or to find out more and more about those he [Page 3]may not be able to meet personally. He can attend Bahá’í functions, such as conferences, institutes, feasts, anniversary observances, and festivals, where he will have opportunities to meet active and dedicated workers for the Faith. He may also read Bahá’í publications from which he can find out about those who are active on administrative bodies and in the community in general, and who possess the necessary qualities for service as delegates or members of institutions. The latter action is quite important, especially when it is understood that the elector is free to vote for those who come to his attention by reason of the beneficial effects of their devoted services to the Faith, as well as for those with whom he is personally acquainted and whom prayer and reflection lead him to choose.

Any member of the Bahá’í community is entitled to information about the eligibility of any other member to be voted a delegate to the National Convention or to be elected to an administrative institution. The National Spiritual Assembly will continue therefore to supply State Goals Committees with corrected membership lists for the electoral districts they represent. These lists will be posted at State Conventions so that individuals can consult them. Local Spiritual Assemblies provide, and are encouraged to continue to provide, up-to-date lists to members of their respective communities.

NATIONAL BAHÁ’Í CONVENTION

The following information on the National Convention scheduled for April 30-May 3, 1970, at the National Bahá’í Center, Wilmette, Illinois is presented for the information of delegates and Bahá’í visitors who are planning to attend.

Current Bahá’í identification cards are required for admittance to the National Convention. Outdated cards must be renewed before coming to Wilmette, as it is not possible to renew cards at the National Convention.

NURSERY: There will be professional child care for children six years and under. The fee will be fifty cents per hour for the first child in the family and twenty-five cents per hour for each additional child in the family. placed in the Nursery. No meals will be served. Children who are ill will not be admitted. The Nursery will be open during the following hours:

Friday, May 1: 8:45 a.m.-12:45 noon; 1:45 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Saturday, May 2: 8:15 a.m.-12:45 noon; 1:45 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Sunday, May 3: 8:15 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Important: Children must be called for by closing times indicated. Please note that the Nursery is not open during the lunch hour or in the evenings.

PROGRAM FOR VISITORS: A program for visitors (Bahá’ís who are not delegates) will be held on Saturday, May 2. Bahá’í Youth visiting the Convention are urged to attend this program.

VOLUNTEERS will be needed for a variety of jobs during the National Convention. This includes helping in the dining room and kitchen, ushering, guiding, assisting with child care, and a number of other jobs. Bahá’ís who would like to help are asked to write the Bahá’í House of Worship Office, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091, so they can be scheduled to serve in one capacity or another for several hours during the Convention. Those writing to volunteer should indicate their times of arrival at the House of Worship, and upon arrival at the Convention should check with the House of Worship office to find out when and where they are scheduled to serve.

Important Notes

Delegates and Bahá’í visitors to the National Convention are reminded of the following:

No pictures are to be taken of the Convention sessions except by official Convention photographers.

No tape recordings of the Convention sessions are permitted, except the official recording for the National Spiritual Assembly. After editing, excerpts of the official tape recording will be made available through the Bahá’í Publishing Trust.

Personally produced items, or other items, are not to be sold in or around the House of Worship. All materials sold at the National Convention must be sold through official National Bahá’í outlets.

Motels and Hotels

Persons planning to attend the Convention are urged to make all motel or hotel reservations as soon as possible. There have been increases in room rates in practically every facility in the area.

MOTELS in the area:

Admiral Oasis: 9355 Waukegan Road, Morton Grove, YO 5-4000. Single $11.25; double $13.30.

Holiday Inn: Edens Expressway at Lake-Cook Road, Highland Park, VE 5-4000. Single $14.50 to $18.00; double or twin $19.50 to $23.00.

Hyatt House: 4500 Touhy Avenue, Lincolnwood, 677-5400. Single $19.00 to $23.00; double $25.00 to $29.00.

Leaning Tower Y.M.C.A.: 6000 West Touhy Avenue. Niles, 647-8222. Single $10.00; double $12.25.

Morton Grove Motel: 9424 Waukegan Road, Morton Grove, YO 5-6400. Single $10.00 to $13.00; double $12.00 to $18.00.

Howard Johnson: 9333 Skokie Avenue, Skokie, 679-4200. Single $15.50 to $17.00; double $18.00 to $22.00.

HOTELS in Evanston:

Orrington Hotel: 1710 Orrington Avenue, UN 4-8700. Single $9.00 to $25.00; double $12.00 to $25.00; twin $15.00 to $25.00.

Evanshire Hotel: 860 Hinman Avenue, UN 4-8800. Single $10.50, double $12.00; twin $14.00.

North Shore Hotel: 1611 Chicago Avenue, UN 4-6400. Single $10.50; twin $14.00.

Library Plaza Hotel: 1637 Orrington Avenue, UN 4-8000. Single $11.00; twin $15.23.

Evanston Inn: 840 Forest Avenue, UN 4-5000. Single $11.50; double $12.50; $3.00 each additional person.

Y.M.C.A. Hotel: 1000 Grove Street, GR 5-7400. Men only. $5.10 per night. [Page 4]

Youth Goals Won

The international goals of the Five Year Youth Plan initiated August 31, 1968: "To send at least five pioneers to Africa and twenty to Latin America."

These goals are now achieved. As of March 2, five pioneers had gone to Africa and twenty-one to Latin America.

They are:

Africa

• Mr. Michael Brooks — Liberia
• Mrs. Robin Brooks — Liberia
• Miss Norma Clark — Togo
• Mrs. Laquetta Karch — Cameroons
• Mr. Gerald Van Deusen — Upper Volta
• Mr. Rigg Scott (returned) — Uganda

Latin America

• Mrs. Mary Lou Alejandro — Mexico
• Miss Crystol Baker — Peru
• Mr. Peter Boddy — San Andrés Is., Colombia
• Mr. Jack Burwell — Honduras
• Mr. Gerald Chastain — Panama
• Mrs. Helen Chastain — Panama
• Miss Kathleen Davenport — Guatemala
• Miss Robin Grimson — Puerto Rico
• Miss Lynn Johnson — Puerto Rico
• Mr. Douglas Jones — Bolivia
• Mr. Robert Keillor — Costa Rica
• Miss Sharon B. Kuchar — Honduras
• Miss Janet Meyers — Colombia
• Miss Patricia Plecas — El Salvador
• Mr. Stephen Pulley — Bolivia
• Mr. Joseph Sheppherd — San Andrés Is., Colombia
• Miss Cheryl L. Tagg — Mexico
• Miss Pamela Volk — Guatemala
• Miss Margo Wakeland — Honduras
• Mr. Reese Whitcombe (returned) — San Andrés Is., Colombia
• Mr. Ed Widmer — Guayana
• Mrs. Kristin H. Wilson — Nicaragua.

Calendar of Events

State Convention Recommendations

In reviewing the recommendations from the last State Conventions, the National Spiritual Assembly found that in general they were repetitions of recommendations made by previous conventions and already acted upon by the Assembly.

In the few instances in which recommendations were important only to the States making them, direct responses were communicated through the respective State Goals Committees.

Feast

• April 9 — Jalál (Glory)
• April 28 — Jamál (Beauty)

Feast of Ridván (Declaration of Bahá’u’lláh)

• April 21 – May 2
• April 21: The first day of Ridván
• April 29: The ninth day of Ridván
• May 2: The twelfth day of Riḍván

U.S. National Bahá’í Convention

• April 30 – May 3

U.S. National Spiritual Assembly Meetings

• April 3-5

[Page 5]

HOME FRONT SETTLERS NEEDED

Write or Call National Teaching Committee

Help save these assemblies: Verde Valley 8 Arizona 5 California Albany 8 Bakersfield J. D. 8 Cypress 7 Fair Oaks-Folsom J.D. 5 Laguna Beach 8 Lompoc 8 Los Gatos-Saratoga-Campbell J.D. 7 Orange 7 Pismo Beach 6 South Gate 8 San Bernardino J.D. 8 Washington J.D. 8 Florida Boca Raton. 6 Sarasota County 7 Illinois Park Ridge 7 Indiana West Lafayette 6 Maryland St. Marys County 8 Minnesota Olmstead County 8 Nevada Reno - Sparks Indian Colony 5 New Hampshire - Peterborough 8 New Jersey-Hackensack 7 Ohio Euclid 7 Oregon Ashland 7 South Carolina - Greenville County 8 Virginia Fairfax 7 Washington Bellevue 8 Issaquah 6 Makah Reservation 8 Texas Bellaire 8 West Virginia - Charleston 7 Wisconsin Delafield. 7 Racine 8 Shorewood 7

Did you know that there are more than 1900 potential pioneers living in the forty-five largest Bahá’í communities? That's right, 1900, and this estimate is based on the premise that each community maintain thirty adult believers twice the number recommended by our beloved Guardian!

Surveying the jeopardized assemblies listed above, and the large goal groups (listed below), we note that 156 Bahá’ís are needed to assure eighty-seven new local spiritual assemblies this Ridván. If we work as a team, we can do it. The greatest victory on the American home front is within our grasp! Pioneer for Bahá’u’lláh; pray during the Fast about it; start Naw-Rúz with a victory.

We need you! Call or write the National Teaching Committee, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091. telephone (312) 256-4400.

Ridván 1970

Alabama Auburn 7

Arkansas North Little Rock. 6

Northern California Auburn J.D. 8. Grass Valley J.D. 7 San Anselmo 7

California C1 Belmont 6 El Cerrito 8 Fremont 5 San Jose-Milpitas J.D. 6 Saratoga 8

California C2 Clovis 6

California S1 Covina 6 Downey 6 El Monte J.D. 5 Glendora 8 Arcadia 6 La Puente 7

California S2 Fontana J.D. 7 Seal Beach 8 Yucaipa 6 Del Mar. 6 El Cajon 6 San Marcos 7

California S3 Santa Paula 6 Port Hueneme 5

Colorado Canon City 5 Jefferson City 7

Connecticut Hamden 5

Florida Riviera Beach 7 Key West 7 Brandenton 6 No. Miami 6

Georgia Milledgeville 5 Dawson 5

Idaho Pocatello 6

Northern Illinois Aledo 5 Barrington. 5 Berwyn 8 De Kalb 6 Deerfield 5 Elmhurst 6 Northbrook 8 Park Forest 5 Lombard 7

Southern Illinois Danville 6 East St. Louis 5 Edwardsville 5 Edwardsville Twp. 6 Godfrey 5 Peoria Heights 8

Indiana Hammond 6 Warsaw 7

Kansas Emporia 6

Kentucky Jefferson County 6

Louisiana Alexandria 7 Bogalusa 7 Gretna 5

Maine Kittery 6 York 6

Massachusetts Greenfield 6 Montague Twp. 6 [Page 6]Maryland. Ann Arundel Co. 8

Virginia Richmond 6

Greenbelt 5 Bowie 5

Eastern Washington Newport News Franklin CD No. 3 6 6

Carroll Co. 5

Michigan Clinton Twp. 7

Western Washington Spokane CD No. 1 5 Aberdeen 5 Mt. Pleasant 6 Kent 7 Niles Twp. Cowlitz CD No. 3 6 Troy Jackson Kalamazoo 6 Shelton 5 7

West Virginia Wetzel Co. 5 6

Wisconsin Cudahy 5

Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Kirkwood St. Charles Helena Anoka Clarksdale 5 Canton Affton 7 Menomonee Falls Muskego Township Oconomowoc 5 5 7 6 Wilson Township 8 6

Wyoming Cheyenne 7 8 Laramie Co. 5 5 Bozeman 5 Missoula 7

Nevada Reno Rural W. 6 North Las Vegas 8

New Hampshire Bristol 8 Keene. 6

New Jersey Bergenfield 5 Paterson 8 Ridgewood 7 Trenton 5 Willingboro 9

New Mexico Eastern New York Silver City 5 Zuni 6 Beacon 7 Town of Babylon 6 Town of Cortland 6 Town of Greenburgh 6 Town of Yorktown 5 Hempstead 8

Western New York Fredonia 6 Town of Tonawanda. 6 Town of Vestal 5

North Carolina High Point 6 Chapel Hill 6

North Dakota Ohio Grand Forks 5 Lakewood 7 North Olmsted 6

Oklahoma Oregon Edmond 7 Moore 7 Klamath Falls 5 Grants Pass 7 Medford 6 Woodburn 8

Pennsylvania Puerto Rico Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Newport E. Chester Co. 7 Swarthmore 5 Trujillo Alto 7 5 Charleston 6 Florence Co. 6 Mapleton Township 6 Rapid City 6 McMinnville 6 Knoxville 5

Eastern Texas Richardson 8 Marshall 6

Vermont Rochester Putney 5 6

Ecuador The City of Esmeraldas

In the 16th Century, a slave ship en route to Peru from Africa ran into a storm, was apparently shipwrecked by the storm and spilled its human cargo into the sea off the coast of what is now Esmeraldas, Ecuador. These unfortunate(?) people had been marked for a lifetime of slavery, but they escaped into the coastal jungles and established their own villages in the new world.

They often maintained their original customs and way of life from Africa, but they adopted a dialect of Spanish as their language when they stayed in their own groups. Also, in varying degrees, they became more completely integrated socially and genetically with the Latins who lived in the cities.

It is with the purer African type in the city of Esmeraldas, probably those who had more recently moved in from the country, who are the poorest and live as close to the sea level as possible, that mass conversion has been vigorously attempted and found to be successful.

A report from Charles Hornby, member of the Auxiliary Board for Protection, is the basis for the above paragraphs and for those in the following article. His report has been freely adapted, and many of his phrases and sentences are directly quoted.

Quito Accepts Goal

Mr. Hornby's article relates how José Lucas, who had been a Christian from childhood, learned of the Faith from Dorothy Campbell at Otavalo, Ecuador. Dorothy, a long-time pioneer in Latin America, is now a member of the National Spiritual Assembly of Ecuador. Sr. Lucas began teaching the Faith immediately, although his enrollment came about a year and a half later. In the meantime, he had returned to his home province and city, both named Esmeraldas. He kept after the Bahá’ís of Quito by telephone to come and help, and finally a Quito believer, Gabriel Jijón, visited him and found an enthusiastic group of inquirers. The Spiritual Assembly of Quito wanted a goal, so they took on Esmeraldas to try to find enough Bahá’ís to form a local assembly before Riḍván 1970. Then began a series of visits by other Bahá’ís. Eventually, a group of four believers set out with one purpose: to have a try at mass conversion in "ready" parts of the city of Esmeraldas.

Mr. Hornby states: "It was... but two months after Hand of the Cause of God Dr. Muhájir, as an emissary of [Page 7]

REVIEW

the Universal House of Justice, called to the attention of the Quito International Teaching Conference that the Guardian in his letters, speaking about mass conversion of the American Indians, referred also to the Negro in the same light. At this time Ecuador had yet to obtain its first native believer of African descent, unless it was someone so genetically diluted as not to be obvious. Now that these people are becoming recognized as among the spiritually elite other claims to "first" may come to the surface.

The First Believer

"It was a delightfully easy experience finding ready souls walking along the narrow mud lane of 'El Pampón' that first Saturday morning. The enrollment of the first believer, a tall, dignified, white-haired gentleman, who accepted with wholehearted belief the Coming of Bahá’u’lláh, was closely followed by a houseful of about eleven that Jerry (Bagley) and Dr. (LaVerne) Johnson had gathered together. The traveling teachers came back on Sunday evening, announced a street meeting from house to house, collected about fifty adults and youth, and as many children, started off by teaching the children to sing 'O God, guide me, protect me, illumine the lamp of my heart and make me a brilliant star. "There were many enrollments.

On Sunday, the teaching group taxied to the village of Same, and taught and enrolled. A few weekends later, another teaching group achieved practically a complete enrollment of the residents of Same. "From October to December, nearly every weekend was a teaching weekend in Esmeraldas" with exciting successes. "In one instance, José Lucas presented his teaching companion to an editor, writer, print shop owner, poet, and the author of the Provincial anthem... The Message of Bahá’u’lláh was presented in the usual simple, straightforward manner."

Opened Other Localities

Considerable effort is being made in other villages, and with notable results: "Not infrequently believers were found in the barrios and even in the market place, who were visiting in the city (of Esmeraldas), and enrolled to return to their homes to be the first points of light in their communities. In this manner about twenty different localities were opened around Esmeraldas.

"By the time of the District Convention to elect delegates to the National Convention there were about twelve hundred believers, youth and adults, in the Esmeraldas province." Answering the pleas of José Lucas for "help" had achieved unexpected results, and "black 'spiritual' power" was manifesting itself in Ecuador.

A Reminder

If your Bahá’í identification card expires BEFORE April 30, get it RENEWED at once. You CANNOT be admitted to the National Bahá’í Convention unless you present a valid card. Avoid embarrassment; if your card needs to be renewed, get it done NOW.

Bahá’í Directory Changes

Assembly Secretaries

Southern California Dist. No. 1 Burbank: Mrs. Joan Bulkin, Chr., 551 S. Parish Pl. 91506 Inglewood: L.S.A. of Inglewood, P.O. Box 587, 90307 Monrovia: Mrs. Fannie B. Johnson, 231 Chestnut, Apt. C. 91016

Southern California Dist. No. 2 Garden Grove: Mrs. Frances James, Vice-Chr., 13151 Safford 96240 Oceanside: Mrs. Gwendolyn Jones, 4170 Marvin 92054

Northern Illinois Elgin: Mr. Gerald G. Granroth, P.O. Box 463, 60120 Oak Park: Mr. Ruhullah Vafadari, P.O. Box 854, 60303 Wheaton: Mrs. Linda Nixon, 217 E. Indiana 60187 Zion: Mrs. Sara Richards, 2008 Carmel Blvd. 60099

Indiana Terre Haute: Mrs. Karen B. Fuller, Rt. 51, Box 431A. 47805

Kansas Lawrence: Mrs. Mary Stuart, pro-tem, P.O. Box 584, 66044

Louisiana Baton Rouge: Mrs. Linda Ashraf, P.O. Box 1861, 70821

Michigan Pontiac: Mrs. Louise R. Eddy, 176 Oneida 48053

Nevada Carson City: Mrs. Jane Smith, P.O. Box 1029, 89701

Eastern New York Town of Oyster Bay: Mrs. Delia DeWald, 92 Connecticut Ave., Massapequa 11758

North Carolina Asheville: Mrs. Valentine S. Boyd, 4½ Avon Rd. 28805

Oregon Clatsop County: Mrs. Phyllis J. Moore, Rt. 2, Box 161, Astoria 97103 Springfield: Mrs. Jo Beth Ravellette, 4545 Main St. 97477

Western Texas Amarillo: Miss Marie Fogarty, P.O. Box 9103, 79105

Wisconsin Green Bay: Mrs. Margaret Fischback, 3044 Colleen Dr. 54301

State Goals Committee Secretaries

Alabama Mrs. Tommie H. Kelly, pro-tem, 6200 Dakota Circle, N.W., Huntsville 35810

Colorado Mrs. Sue Foreman, 896 - 18th St., Boulder 80302

Kentucky Mrs. Martha Jeffers, 2111 Lansill Rd., Apt. E-60, Lexington 60504

Louisiana Miss Thelma E. Thomas, 2054 Pleasure St., New Orleans 70122 [Page 8]

Southern California Bahá’í Summer School

Location: Camp Osceola, Barton Flats, Highway 38 Sessions: June 27 to July 4 Classes for children, youth, and adults Weekly rate: Ages 3-12, $22.50; 13-21, $35.00; over 21, $45.00. Registrar: Mrs. Sue Gilliland, 15733 La Paz Drive, Victorville, California 92392

Conifer Hill Institute

Location: Conifer Hill (near Lyons). Colorado Sessions: Dinner, July 2, through lunch on Sunday, July 5 For children, youth, and adults. Children under 15 must be accompanied by a parent or sponsor. Rate: $13.00 maximum.. Registrar: Mrs. Marilyn Fisher, 437 Pine Street, Boulder, Colorado 80302

Rocky Mountain Bahá’í Summer School

Location: Buckhorn Methodist Camp, near Ft. Collins, Colorado For children, youth, and adults. Children under 15 must be accompanied by a parent or sponsor. Week-day sessions: Sunday night dinner, August 23, through Friday noon, August 28. Cost: About $30.00. Week-end sessions: Friday night dinner, August 28, through Sunday lunch, August 30. Cost: About $12.00. Registrar: Mr. Pete Haug, 1933 Springfield Drive, Ft. Collins, Colorado 80521

Southwestern Bahá’í Summer School

Location: Bridgeport Methodist Camp, Bridgeport, Texas Sessions: August 10 to 15 Rates: Ages 0-5, $6.00; 6-9, $25.25; 10 and over, $36.50 Registrar: Mrs. Pauline R. Koskie, 415 East Fifth, Edmond, Oklahoma 73034 (Tel: 405-341-0233)

Northwest Bahá’í Summer School

Location: Seabeck, Washington Theme: The Spirit of Bahá’í Education Sessions: From after lunch June 27 to after lunch July 2 Registration fee: $3.00, non-refundable. Limited scholarship funds available. Rates: Ages 3-4, $16.50 to $22.00; 5-11, $20.75 to $26.00; 12-18, $27.50 to $33.00; adults, $27.50 to $46.75. Rates vary. according to type and quality of accommodation. Do not bring sleeping bags, pets, or music machines. Secretary: Mrs. Virginia Martig, Route 1, Box 619, publisher Shelton, Washington 98584.

North Central States Bahá’í Summer School

Location: Frontenac Methodist Camp, Frontenac, Minnesota Sessions: August 22-28. Children's classes, ages 4-14; classes for adults, 15 and up. Rates: Ages 2-12, $16.00; 13 and up, $29.00. Rate includes registration fee. Registrar: Mr. Don Brayton, 415 Rice Street, Anoka, Minnesota 55303 [Page 9]

Geyserville Bahá’í Summer School—A Children’s Week

Location: Geyserville, California 95441 Sessions: July 12-19—limited to not more than 50 enrollments For: Children, ages 7-11 Rate: $25.00 per child

Geyserville Bahá’í Summer School—Regular, six week session

Sessions: July 26-September 6 Rates: Under 2, free; 2-4, $5.00 per week, $1.00 per day; 5-9, $15.00 per week, $2.50 per day; 10-14, $20.00 per week, $3.50 per day; 15-21, $30.00 per week, $4.50 per day; adults, per person, $45.00 per week, $7.00 per day; couples, $80.00 per week, $12.50 per day.

Green Acre Bahá’í School

Location: Eliot, Maine Sessions: July 3-September 5 Rates: To be established, see brochure which will be issued later. For age levels: 4-12, children; 12-15, youth; 15-18, youth: 18 and over, adults. Registrar: Green Acre Bahá’í School, 189 Main Street, Eliot, Maine 03903 (Tel: After June 15, 207-439-0019)

Southeastern Bahá’í Summer School

Location: Camp John Hope, near Fort Valley, Georgia Sessions: June 28-July 4 Rates: (Tentative yet to be finalized) Under 3, free; 3-9, $15.00; 10-19, $22.00; 20 and up, $30.00. Registration fees: $3.00 per person; $5.00 per family. These will be deductible from tuition rates. Registrar: Send registration fees to George Frye, 209 S. Vanderhorst Street, Winnsboro, South Carolina 29180

Davison Bahá’í School

Location: 3208 South State Road, Davison, Michigan Sessions: July 5-August 1 Rates: No partial day rates. Single rooms, $7.00 per day; double rooms, $6.00 per day; dormitory, $5.50 per day; youth 9-14, $4.00 per day; child 3-8, $3.00 per day; bed (no meals) $2.50 per night. The day begins with the lunch meal and ends with breakfast. Family group of four or more will receive 15% discount on total bill, but it must be the same family group. Any cancellation must be at least twenty-four hours before date due for refund. Registrar: Registrar, Davison Bahá’í School, 3208 South State Road, Davison, Michigan 48423

Publishing Trust has Video Tape on A NEW WIND

A video tape has been made available on the film A New Wind on a rental basis by the Bahá’í Publishing Trust. This is for use only by television stations, and it offers an excellent opportunity for local communities, at reasonable cost, to present an attractive program to TV stations. Many TV stations would welcome utilizing it as a public service program.

This video tape is recorded in color and can be played back on any broadcast facility having high band playback capabilities.

Use of this film must be scheduled weeks in advance, and this is also conditioned by the current demand for its use. The rental fee allows use of the video tape for six days. This should allow time for the TV station to preview the tape for content before showing.

When contacting a TV station about a showing, ascertain the length of time between their preview and the date of showing. If this will exceed six days, indicate this in your request to the Publishing Trust so that a longer rental period can be arranged. It is also helpful to indicate a choice of three dates if at all possible.

The rental fee is $12.00. Send your request and choice of dates to: Film Rental Department, Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091. You will receive scheduling information and an invoice for the amount due. This fee must be paid in advance of the shipment of the film.

Registration Fees at Bahá’í Conferences

The National Spiritual Assembly has reminded us that it does not look with favor on the idea of charging for attendance at Bahá’í conferences, institutes, and similar gatherings, despite the high cost of renting suitable facilities. This does not mean that the friends should not pay for any services rendered, such as food, lodging, materials, etc. It merely discourages a fee levied solely on the basis of one’s attendance. [Page 10]

BAHÁ’Í FIRESIDES—YOUR PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY

"...It is now imperative for every Bahá’í to set for himself individual teaching goals. The admonition of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to lead at least one new soul to the Faith each year and the exhortation of Shoghi Effendi to hold a Bahá’í fireside in one’s home every Bahá’í month are examples of individual goals. Many have the capacities to do even more, but this alone will assure final and complete victory for the Plan..." (The Universal House of Justice letter to the Bahá’ís of the World, November 16, 1969.)

Friends, did you know that over the entire world the most effective method of teaching is the fireside meeting in the home?

"The friends must realize their individual responsibility. Each must hold a fireside in his or her home, once in 19 days, where new people are invited, and where some phase of the Faith is mentioned and discussed. If this is done with the intent of showing Bahá’í hospitality and love, then there will be results. People will become interested in 'what' you are interested in, and then be interested in studying. Individual firesides will bring the knowledge of the Faith to more people, under favorable circumstances, and thus constantly enrich its circle of friends, and finally its members. There is no substitute for the teaching work of the individual." (Shoghi Effendi's statement, U.S. Bahá’í News, July 1957.)

A Simple, Planned Occasion

To hold a fireside in your home once in 19 days is your personal responsibility. Those friends who have "capacities to do even more" could hold firesides in their respective homes once in two weeks, once a week, several times a week, or every day for that matter!

Many of the friends feel that by attending firesides in the homes of others they are meeting their individual responsibilities. Many feel that their firesides must be supported by other Bahá’ís. Many feel that they simply must have a speaker at their firesides to eloquently introduce the Faith. Friends, fireside teaching is a simple occasion planned and conducted by an individual Bahá’í or Bahá’í family (perhaps with the assistance of one or two other Bahá’ís), for the specific purpose of attracting personal friends or acquaintances to the Faith. It is not necessary to have a speaker, nor is it necessary to invite all of your Bahá’í friends, unless you so desire.

There is no standard technique for carrying on such an undertaking. Every Bahá’í teaches in his own home in a way that is most natural for him. For most people, conversation is easier than giving a talk. The informal character of conversation is conducive to discussion and asking questions, and questions open the door to teaching.

Since individuals differ in their interests and background, a different approach to the Faith is necessary with practically every person. Thus, a fireside should be small enough to enable the Bahá’í host or hosts to establish individual points of contact with each guest. In the course of conversation it is possible to discover the particular interests or problems of the individual and thus determine how best to introduce the Faith to him.

Be Confident, Vital, Enthusiastic

To be confident, full of vitality and enthusiasm is the basic requirement for teaching. These qualities come only from the believer's own understanding of the essential verities of the Faith and from his full recognition and acceptance of the Divine Manifestation and His Teachings.

"Not until all the friends realize that every one of them is able, in his own measure, to deliver the Message can they ever hope to reach the goal that has been set for them by a loving and wise Master. It is no use waiting for some able and eloquent teacher to take all the responsibility for the spread of the Cause. Such a thing is not only contrary to the spirit of the Teachings, but to the explicit text of the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, both of whom place the obligation of teaching not on any particular class as in former ecclesiastical organizations but on every faithful and loyal follower of the Cause. The teaching of the Word is thus made universal and compulsory. How long, then, shall we wait to carry out this command, the full wisdom of which only future generations will be able to appreciate? We have no special teachers in this Cause. Every one is a potential teacher. He has only to use what God has given him and thus prove that he is faithful to his trust." (Shoghi Effendi through his Secretary to New Zealand believers, quoted in Bahá’í Newsletter, August 1969, Vol. VIII, No. 4.)

"Blessed art thou for having opened the door of thy home unto the people to come and hear of the Kingdom ... know thou that in every home where God is praised and prayed to, and His Kingdom proclaimed, that home is a garden of God and a paradise of His happiness." (Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Vol. I, p. 68.)

—NATIONAL TEACHING COMMITTEE

National Bahá’í Fund

MONTHLY INCOME: 1969-1970

INCOME	February 1970	Fiscal Year to Date
Regular Contributions	$ 72,539.21	$ 787,206.56
Special Contributions	4,877.55	165,821.39
Total Contributions	$ 77,416.76	$ 953,027.95
Estates	6,182.57	64,872.61
Other Income	1,200.56	21,506.96
Total Income	$ 84,799.89	$ 1,039,407.52
Budget	$ 125,000.00	$ 1,375,000.00

[Page 11]

INDIAN OCEAN CONFERENCE

August 14-16, 1970 Queen Elizabeth Hall Rose-Hill, Mauritius

REGISTRATION: Thursday, August 13 UNITY FEAST: Thursday evening, August 13 REGISTRATION CARD: (See "Correspondence" below). This card will serve as a credential card for the holder. When you notify the National Spiritual Assembly of the Indian Ocean of your plan to attend, a card will be mailed to the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States for countersigning and forwarding to you.

MONEY: The Mauritian rupee (Rs) has an approximate value of Rs 5.50 (on December 25, 1969) to one United States dollar.

HOTELS: Accommodations are extremely limited in Mauritius. Confirmation is required by April 15 at the latest. A 25% deposit on the accommodation booked should be made by June 30, 1970. The rates given are FOR EACH PERSON and include "on bed breakfast, and dinner."

ROOM RESERVATIONS: Do not write the individual hotel! Submit the following information and deposit to: New Mauritius Hotels, c/o Park Hotel, Curepipe, Mauritius. Tell them:

(1) Your last name; your first name. (2) Nationality; sex; age. (3) Whom you will be accompanied by indicate: name, surname, sex, age, relationship for each person. (4) Your permanent address. (5) Specify whether single or double room. (6) If you are requested to double up, specify with whom you would like to double up. (7) State day you plan to arrive in Mauritius, and flight number. (8) State day and flight number for your departure from Mauritius. (9) Through whom have you sent the 25% room deposit? (10) Specify particular requests you may have. (11) Sign and date your reservation request.

1. PARK HOTEL, Curepipe, Mauritius: Single room, shower, Rs 36. Double room, shower, Rs. 30. Double room, bath, Rs 38.

2. VATEL HOTEL, Curepipe, Mauritius: Single room, shower, private toilet, Rs 45. Double room, bath, private toilet, Rs 36.

3. LE CHALAND HOTEL, on the beach: Single room, shower, private toilet, Rs 53. Double room, shower, private toilet, Rs. 38.

4. Sea-side bungalows, five beds, from Rs 35 up - without breakfast and dinner.

AIR SERVICES: Mauritius is served by many airlines. Check with your local ticket agencies. Transport from airport and from hotel will be approximately Rs 20 per person. Taxi, car, and bus service will be available to and from Conference Hall.

LANGUAGE: The official languages of the Conference will be French and English.

CORRESPONDENCE: In addition to making your hotel and travel plans and reservations, write to the Secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the Indian Ocean, P.O. Box 538, Port-Louis, Mauritius. If you plan to attend the Conference, please inform the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States, 536 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, Illinois 60091.

Canawash

Date: May 9-10. Place: Osoyoos State Park, Oroville, Washington. Charge: $1.75 per car, or each six persons.

Nestled among the picturesque mountains of northern Washington lies a little town called Oroville. A breathtaking scenic route from the south, through Wenatchee, Omak, and the Okanagan, leaves one with a sense of awe of the wonders of God. Situated by a clear blue lake is Osoyoos State Park, the sight of the first Intercontinental Council Fire, with Canada and Washington holding hands across the border, singing praises of Bahá’u’lláh and spreading the beautiful teachings of the Faith.

Being a state park with modern rest rooms, electricity, and showers, there will be a charge of $1.75 per night per car. Camping gear will be needed, and individuals must provide their own food although the Saturday afternoon meal will be supplied by the State Goals Committee of Eastern Washington, Canadian friends, and the Toppenish, Washington, Spiritual Assembly.

For further information, write to: Mrs. Aletha Brown, secretary, 408 S. Toppenish Avenue, Toppenish, Washington 98948.

In Memoriam

Mrs. Mattie Bacote Florence, South Carolina April 8, 1969.

Daniel D. Beavers Carbondale, Illinois February 1, 1970

Mrs. Juliet A. Cole Phoenix, Arizona October 27, 1969 (Correct B. News for Dec. 1969)

Leslie C. Ferris Wilton Manors, Florida January 14, 1970

Curtis D. Kelsey Manatee County, Florida February 20, 1970

LeRoy Charles Moss Teaneck, New Jersey January 1970

Stanley C. Puza New Berlin, Wisconsin January 19, 1970

Mrs. May T. Scheffler Naperville, Illinois February 18, 1970

Stuart H. Sims Seaside Heights, New Jersey February 5, 1970

Mrs. Gladys Swykowski Meriden, Connecticut January 6, 1970

Mrs. Bala Taheri-Kermani Huntington Beach, California January 21, 1970

Harold O. Thompson Pomona, California January 25, 1970 [Page 12]

CONTINENTAL CONFERENCE

August 13-16, 1970 La Paz, Bolivia

IMPORTANT NOTES: (1) Correspond directly with Mario Luis Bravo y B., Secretary, Committee for Bahá’í Continental Conference, Casilla 1613, La Paz, Bolivia. (2) All of the Bahá’ís that are prepared to attend the Continental Conference in La Paz, Bolivia, should arrive FIRST at Cochabama one or two days before the opening of the Conference, and then move up to LaPaz. In this way, they will avoid the effects of the change in altitude. This suggestion is made so that all the friends may be acclimatized. (3) It is requested that all hotel reservations be made through the committee for the Conference as soon as possible.

If you plan to attend the Conference, please inform the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States, 536 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, Illinois 60091.

Please study the following room and meal rate schedule carefully in making your reservations through the Committee. Room reservation deposits should be sent in United States dollars.

Hotel	Single Room	Double Room	For Reservation send U.S. $
Hotel Crillon (private bath)	$12.70	$16.51	$16.51
Hotel La Paz (private bath)			13.20
2nd-5th floors, interior	6.60	9.60
2nd-5th floors, exterior	7.80	10.80
6th-8th floors, interior	8.40	10.80
6th-8th floors, exterior	9.60	13.20
Hotel Sucre (private bath)	7.35	10.50	10.50
(without private bath)	3.67	5.25
*Hotel Copacabana (private bath)			13.78
Interior room	9.20	13.25
Exterior room	9.75	13.78
Hotel Andes (without private bath)	1.17	2.00	2.00
Hotel City (without private bath)	1.75	3.50	3.50
Hotel Pullman (without private bath)	1.00	2.00	2.00
*Hotel Avenida (private bath)	2.10	4.40	4.40
(without private bath)	1.70	3.40

Hotel	Complete Board	Half Board	Continental Breakfast
Hotel Crillon (no meal plan)
Hotel La Paz	$6.00	$3.60	$0.60
*Hotel Copacabana
Hotel Sucre (no meal plan)
Hotel Andes	6.00	$3.60	$0.60
Hotel City	1.13	0.67	0.21
Hotel Pullman	0.17	0.21	0.21
*Hotel Avenida

• Prices subject to change after March 30, 1970

All prices are U.S.$, with tax.

INTERCONTINENTAL CONFERENCE

January 1-3, 1971 Monrovia, Liberia, West Africa

REGISTRATION: Thursday, December 31. 1970. at the National Hazíratu’l-Quds.

UNITY FEAST: Thursday evening. December 31.

NOTE: The Committee on Arrangements is anxious to know how many Bahá’ís might be coming THROUGH New York so they may determine the advisability of chartering planes.

If you are planning to attend this Conference, please write directly to Oliver W. Reimann, Secretary, 1971 Conference Arrangements Committee, P.O. Box 735, Monrovia. Liberia. West Africa. Give them as many details as possible about your plans. Also, if you plan to attend. please inform the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States, 536 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, Illinois 60091.