National Teaching Committee Bulletins/1920/July 19/Text

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[Page 1] "Belief without works is not acceptable."

"Service is the Magnet which attracts the Heavenly strength."

Utterances of ‘ABDU’L-BAHÁ

"Firmness in the Covenant is the Torch that illumines every heart. It is the Brilliant Diadem that crowns every head. It is the Pathway to the Kingdom of El ABHA. The Heavenly Breeze that vivifies the mouldering bones. The Trumpet of the Archangel that awakens every sleeper. The Voice of Truth that summons every one to soar in the atmosphere of severance. And the Ark of Salvation sailing on the tempestuous seas of the world."

‘ABDU’L-BAHÁ.

BULLETIN No. 2.

Issued by the Teaching Committee appointed by the delegates to the Convention.

This Number of the Bulletin will bring to your attention a record of several very interesting activities in the Cause, but that which thrills most of all are the news items pertaining to the very successful tour of Mirza Fazel Mazandarani. His glorious path through the country thus far has been literally a path brilliantly illumined. There can be no doubt that he is "walking with the Lord", and that upon him descends confirmations and bounties which are so apparent that one can more easily imagine what the "Apostolic Benediction" is like.

The following Words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in a Tablet dated Haifa, June 3, 1920, may well be quoted here:

"His honor Fazel is one of the elect among the believers in His Holiness Bahá’u’lláh. This respected one is severed, sincere and eloquent. It is My hope that the American friends will prove receptive to his advice and sermons, and understand that there is considerable difference between this honored person and others."

The commendation of a creature, however sincerely and beautifully given, is meager and entirely lifeless in the light of that which has issued from the Pen of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá From this Utterance which creates capacity for appreciation, we will all realize the Bounty bestowed upon us in the gift of this great teacher, and all will earnestly and sincerely long to "prove receptive."

"This time is the time of serving the world of humanity, and diffusing the rays of universal ideals."

‘ABDU’L-BAHÁ.

Now let us go back a few weeks and take up the itinerary of Mirza Fazel in Chicago, where he and Manoucher Khan, his interpreter, remained for nearly two weeks during June. Their abiding place while there was at 5445 Magnolia Ave., [Page 2] where Miss McCutcheon, Mrs. True, and many other friends co-operated and served whole-heartedly, rendering every service with the greatest joy.

There were two large public meetings in Masonic Temple. At one Mirza Fazel spoke on "The Divine Plan for World Unity"; and at the other on "The Remarkable Spread of the Bahá’í Cause in the East — How it is Reconstructing Persia." Then there were evening meetings at the home of Mrs. Corinee True, June 11, 12, 16, 17 and 19; Mirza Fazel speaking on the fuller Bahá’í Teachings.

In regard to their stay in Chicago, Mrs. True wrote:

"A great work of unifying was accomplished. Jenabe Fazel found us firm in the Covenant, praise be to GOD. We had nearly two weeks of small meetings in the different homes and two Sundays in Masonic Temple, and finally on Friday evening, June 18th, a large attendance of the Assembly gathered at Miss Mary Lesch's home, and we saw then what Jenabe Fazel had done to get the Bahá’ís more closely together. He spoke to the colored people in two of the leading colored homes: Mr. and Mrs. Byron Clark's, and Mr. and Mrs. Barnett's.

Please tell the friends that Chicago was tremendously refreshed and warmed up by the visit of Jenabe Fazel and Manoucher Khan."

Mrs. Wm. F. Slater also wrote most refreshingly of the extraordinary Spiritual uplift to all the Chicago Assembly by the visit of our beloved and revered Persian brothers, emphasizing the absolutely unique harmonizing Spiritual effect of their presence.

Mr. Albert Vail's letter brought this word: "We are having some beautiful hours with Mirza Fazel in Chicago. There have been meetings on the Temple grounds and others in the homes where he has spoken to the groups and brought to us the Master's beautiful messages and His joy. He is an angel of light."

Evidently no inharmonious atmosphere has any life to it in the presence of Mirza Fazel. He literally "hears no evil and sees no evil." "With a stainless mind, holy heart, sanctified breast and pure thoughts" he goes about "the Father's business" giving undivided attention to the Realities. He is contributing a most remarkable service of love, and if all "prove receptive", many lessons will be learned from him as the path is travelled which leads to the destination of perfection.

Through a clarified vision from time to time we get glimpses of the "Paradise of Eden" as referred to in the following Words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, and we begin to understand "without veil and cover" that the dearly beloved teacher is "considerably different", and that he is "Singing the praises of GOD with understanding."

"GOD, the Maker of the worlds, hath created the realm of humanity to be the Paradise of Eden (or the Garden of Paradise) if the edifice of Peace, Reconciliation, Love and Faithfulness is founded on a solid and firm basis. Nay, rather, He hath willed it to become the mirror, reflecting the Delectable Paradise."

(‘Abdu’l-Bahá).

Before turning their footsteps east again for service during the Sumer, as planned, our Persian brothers visited the Kenosha, Wis., Assembly, and the brief reports we have had indicate that they were immensely pleased with the Kenosha friends. Every teacher who goes to Kenosha, speaks or writes of the charming Spirituality of our dear sisters and brothers in that Assembly, and so it is not to be wondered at that they were conducive to the happiness of Mirza Fazel and Manoucher Khan. We have not received a report, and so have no detailed accounts of the meetings there to share with the friends. [Page 3] Returning to Chicago, Mirza Fazel and party left on June 21st for the East stopping enroute in Detroit, Mich. A report of the meetings there will be published at another time.

Then the party proceeded to New York City for their second visit. A few heavenly days were spent there. Mr. Mills had arranged some meetings, and the harmonizing effect of the presence of Jenabe Fazel was never more noticeable. He has love, peace, kindness in his own heart, and he radiates these qualities through confirmations from the Divine Source and the "direct effect of the breathe of the Holy Spirit." (Divine Plan, page 29).

One of the most beautiful meetings (and a precious experience for all believers fortunate enough to be present) held in and around New York, was the brilliant picnic at West Englewood, New Jersey on Saturday, June 26th, an event termed by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Himself "The Annual Souvenir of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá."

This picnic held each year in the Grove at West Englewood is looked forward to with great joy by the friends, for it is in commemoration of the Feast given to them by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Himself when He visited the Wilhelm home in 1912. Those present at the memorable gathering eight years ago often tell us of the "Fragrances of Holiness" so marked, and the "Rays of the Sun of Truth" so manifest in, and radiating from, the Divine Host, the Center of the Covenant. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá told the friends gathered there then, that the Feast they were celebrating "had a name which would last forever and ever." Each successive year since 1912, the gathered friends at the "Souvenir of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá" feel the Spiritual Fragrances and confirmations and they know that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá is oer 'shadowing them with His Spiritual Presence. This year the occasion was made particularly happy by the presence of Jenabe Fazel. Among others present were Mr. Harry Randall of Boston, Manoucher Khan, a few Japanese brothers, Mirza Ahmad Sohrab, friends from Riverton, N. J., and others, in all about one hundred and twenty-five. Mr. Roy Wilhelm had charge of the entire program. The evening meeting was held in the home of the Wilhelms; many inquiring friends present, some who had never heard the Message.

The day was a beautiful one, and it was very evident that all present were experiencing the joyousness and real happiness of the spirit. "The wondrous powers of this Spiritual Dispensation urge them (the believers) to display miraculous efforts and extraordinary exertions." (Divine Plan, page 43).

While Mirza Fazel was in New York, Mirza Ahmad Sohrab joined his party, and he will travel with him to a great extent, in accordance with Instructions from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to Ahmad contained in a cable, and reading as follows: "Be with Fazel in important Cities." Also we quote the following Instruction of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in a Tablet to Mirza Ahmad Sohrab, revealed in Haifa, May 18th and translated in New York City, June 26th, 1920:

"His Excellency, the ideal sage, Fazel Mazandarani, is the essence of humility and submission. God willing, with Manoucher Khan, he has reached the United States under the protection of the Almighty. This respected soul is evanescent in the Cause of the Blessed Perfection. He is wise, well informed and a thinker. There is no doubt that he will become the cause of the exhiliaration," [Page 4] rejoicing and the guidance of others. You must exercise toward him the utmost respect and consideration, and placing your hands in each other's, become ye engaged in the promotion of the Word of GOD. "

Mirza Fazel and party, including Mirza Ahmad, left New York for Boston the last of June. In Boston they have been entertained by the friends at the Victoria Hotel. Only a brief stay was made before leaving for Green Acre where the party spent a few days as the guests of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. H. Randall, returning to Boston after the 4th of July. Life at Green Acre was found very delightful; the opportunities for service varied and many; the charming Spiritual atmosphere of the place pleased the visiting friends, and our blessed teacher expressed great joy at the prospects of a longer visit there in the near future.

Since their return to Boston, reports from many of the friends continually arriving, contain thrilling accounts of the really constructive work actually accomplished and being accomplished; of the splendid openings and opportunities for service among all classes of people, indicating that the "Doors of the Kingdom" are being widely opened for Boston, the first City in New England. We are reminded over and over again of an Utterance of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in one of the Tablets to the Northeastern States, namely:

". . . These nine States have been favored in faith and assurance, hence thro' this precedence they have obtained spiritual privilege." (Divine Plan, page 7).

On July 8th, a large public meeting was held in Pilgrim Hall. Very well attended. Mirza Fazel's subject was "‘Abdu’l-Bahá: His Life and Teachings." The many strangers present manifested great interest and enthusiasm, and this Talk alone, addressed to such thinking, serious-minded, seeking souls, means that some day a rich harvest will be gathered from this seed planting.

Two public talks were also given at Community House on Mass. Ave. On Monday evening, July 12th, a Talk on "The Remedy for World Troubles" at the St. Paul A. M. E. Church in Cambridge. On July 13th, at the home of Mr. and Mrs. M. C. Oglesby, 68 Albion St., Somerville, Mass. And every MORNING from July 7th to July 18th, from 10.30 to 11.30, there were a series of public meetings at the Hotel Victoria.

These are a few of the public activities. The remainder of the time was given to private interviews: friends and strangers coming as often as they could, and all manifesting such a longing to learn that surely they were receptive; and strangers usually departed wishing to be friends and not strangers.

The sweet spirit and benign influence of this greatest of teachers is irresistable. The compelling force is there; and the heavenly instructions which he imparts cannot help but make a profound impression for they revolve around LOVE and KINDNESS. Not human love and kindness which ever changes, but love and kindness born of the spirit; born in the heart of man because of the Creative Effect of the Revealed JAD of to-day.

An excerpt from a letter of Mr. Randall's, dated June 29, 1920 to Mrs. Parsons, gives a splendid idea of the ideal attitude of Mirza Fazel:

"I had a long talk with Mirza Fazel, and he does not ask or select any one to travel with him. He is independent of all else save God, and he looks upon all the Bahá’ís as being in one region, and does not consider us from the standpoint of our virtues or our faults, but he looks upon us in the light of our service to the Center of the Covenant, and all the friends together constitute the body of..." [Page 5] believers in America."

‘Abdu’l-Bahá has given us the Instruction that "Firmness in the Covenant means Love, and obedience to the Commands of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá."

When one attains unto this Ideal Love, they WANT to OBEY; and the doctrine of the Brotherhood of Man becomes easy of accomplishment.

The extraordinary and brilliant success of the visit of Mirza Fazel in Boston and vicinity is due in large measure to the untiring efforts and sacrificial services rendered by our dear brother Mr. Wm. H. Randall. We know he would not allow one word of commendation for himself (all Bahá’ís considering it a privilege and bounty to be permitted to serve in any and every way possible), but all Bahá’í sisters and brothers likewise find it a very great joy to praise such loving services, so selflessly performed and rendered by Mr. Randall, covering a period of many years, and which has, with the help of some of the friends, made it possible to prepare the soil for the coming of the great and blessed teacher we are privileged to have with us. The service in which there is the element of sacrifice attracts unto itself rich confirmations, and we know that without the Divine Confirmations success is impossible.

On July 15th, Mirza Fazel and party were in Worcester, Mass., a public talk being given, there at the Levana Club Rooms. In his talk, so wisely, graciously and eloquently given, Mirza Fazel emphasized the point of the practical application of the Bahá’í Religion, and those present could not fail to catch more than a glimpse of the divine civilization of the not far distant future. Mirza Ahmad presided at this meeting. While in this vicinity the friends were entertained most beautifully at the stately summer homes of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas H. Collins and Mrs. Morton in Princeton, near Worcester.

On July 16th our revered teacher was in Springfield, Mass., serving; and after the engagement there, the party expected to return to Boston for a few days; leaving Boston July 19th for Green Acre, where they will remain for two or three weeks. This will afford a wonderful opportunity for a series of inspiring talks, and it is hoped as many of the friends as possible will journey to Green Acre and avail themselves of the blessed privilege of learning from the wise and holy teacher ‘Abdu’l-Bahá has sent to us.

"Travel ye toward the East and toward the West and enlighten the people with the light of the most great guidance, so that they may take a portion and share of the eternal life." —‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

It is good to report the following refreshing news received in a letter from Manoucher Khan. He writes:

"By the assistance of God and the confirmations of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, there is peace and unity, love and amity in all the Cities. There is peace and unity in Chicago; there is peace and amity in Detroit; and indeed in Pittsburgh the Bahá’ís have re-established their meetings, After our arrival in New York, Mr. Mills, that great man, arranged in such a way that now there is perfect harmony among the friends. After we stayed three days in New York, we started for Boston. You cannot realize how the numbers of the Bahá’ís in Boston have increased. We must praise our brother, Mr. Randall, who has done so much for the Cause. They have an official hall decorated with the Greatest NAME. So delightful is Boston; so numerous are the Bahá’ís; and the Bahá’ís are all good and the same all over the world." [Page 6] "The snow of disagreement has covered all the world and this snow cannot be melted except through the Teachings of Bahá’u’lláh.. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá (Feb. 1920).

Bahá’í Unity House

Following Manoucher Khan's reference to the "official hall" the Bahá’ís maintain in Boston, we quote an excerpt from a letter of Mr. Randall's received some days since, in which he tells us something of Unity House:

"‘Abdu’l-Bahá was greatly pleased with the Bahá’í Unity House in Boston, and said it would be well for other Cities to establish a similar Unity Center. The house in Boston is now being remodeled, repaired and thoroughly equipped with large lower room for Feasts, large upper room for Assembly Meetings, and two floors above with several bedrooms and modern conveniences, and it will be ready next Fall for the continuance of Bahá’í work on a more extended pian, and will be in charge of one or two Bahá’ís in the spirit of service. These bedrooms will be available, at a small charge, for the friends passing through Boston or remaining here any length of time."

Blessed are the friends in Boston who have been confirmed in service and who have been able to establish a Unity House.

"To-day firmness in the Covenant is the means of the promotion of the WORD of GOD, and conducive to the effect of the word of man." ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

Mr. Albert Vail's Work

Mr. Albert Vail's work the past month has been of extraordinary interest, for one of his numerous services has been a series of seven brilliant talks on "The Bahá’í Teachings on Immortality". These were given at the home of Mrs. Corinne True, and repeated at Mr. & Mrs. Vail's home. We all know that one of the topics of vital interest to-day is "Life after Death", and generally, people eagerly listen to one who can lead them to a reliable source of information.

The series included the following Talks: "The Origin of the Soul"; "The Appearance of Mind and Spirit in the Soul - it's Divine Psychology"; "When Eternal Life Begins"; "‘Abdu’l-Bahá's Brilliant Proof of Immortality"; "Is Communication with the Unseen World Possible"; "The Value of Psychic Research"; "The Real Nature of Heaven, Hell, and the Unseen Kingdom"; "The Descent of the Kingdom to Earth. A Study of the New Jerusalem in the Glorious Book of Revelation. "

Also during the month Mr. Vail has made a trip to St. Louis; and two or more visits to Urbana, Ill., and vicinity: in these centers spreading the Message of the Glad-tidings of the Kingdom and in such an inspired way that the seeds of truth are carried home in the hearts of the people. We know it is a time of great rejoicing and profitable serving when Mr. Vail visits the various centers. It is planned to have him visit Green Acre sometime during the summer, and the friends are looking forward to a reunion and a united effort in services.

"God wishes love, unity and harmony; upon this exert ye all effort. This is the cause of the glory of all; this is the cause of nearness to the Threshold of the Almighty; this is the cause of entrance into the Kingdom of God. " (From a Tablet of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá). [Page 7] Mr. Roy Wilhelm is among the travelling teachers just now. He left New York City on June 27th for an extensive trip to the Pacific Coast. It is supposed to be a business trip, but the greater part of Roy's thinking and seving is in the greatest business in life - The Bahá’í Cause, and as all friend. know this, a wave of rejoicing is set in motion when the friends hear that Roy is to make a Western business trip, for this means that in every City where he abides for a time, the Glad-tidings will be shared, and his sisters and brothers in the Cause refreshed and encouraged. Roy Wilhelm is "always serving" in some worth while way, and it has oft been said of him that he never "wastes time." Every minute spells Deeds for him.

"That which is truly spiritual must light the path to God and must result in deeds, " (Reference to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá).

Mr. Louis G. Gregory has been in Maryland and Kentucky the past month; particularly good reports come from Louisville where he has been staying for over two weeks. His radiant enthusiasm and spiritual zealousness, his comprehensive presentation of the Bahá’í Message and Teachings of this New Day of God, are attracting wide attention wherever he goes in the South land. He is meeting with great success and not antagonism.

We asked Mr. Gregory to give us a report of how the work has progressed throughout the South, so that we might have well in mind some general conditions. We tried to "brief" the report, but found every item interesting, and for the benefit of those who may wish to further the work in any part of the South, the report is published in full as follows:

THE AWAKENING OF THE SOUTH

The world day by day shows greater capacity to receive the Message. Signs of awakening appear in the South as elsewhere. There are many scattered believers, and vastly more who sympathize with the Cause as far as they understand it. Their approval is hearty and inspiring.

The method of reaching the colored people is revealed in the Instructions of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, who knows their custom of opening their churches, schools and other meetings to visitors who meet their approval. But to meet the complex situation the whites should be reached in greater numbers. They are perhaps more orthodox and will not so readily open their established institution, but there is a vast work for teachers among them. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, speaking of teaching in the South, says:

"Become ye firmly rooted in this great aim. Send ye teachers to all directions and become ye not apprehensive should ye meet strong opposition."

One of the most effective ways of reaching the whites of this region is for friends from other sections to come and reside for a season. Endless traces may result from such efforts. Miss M. Klebs, who has for a number of winters taught music at N. Augusta, S. C., started an Assembly there. Mrs. Boyle, spending a winter at Miami, Fla., attracted many who, like herself, were visitors. Mr. and Mrs. Ripley of Washington, have made several trips to Florida which they have improved for teaching. The efforts of Dr. Oakshette and Fred Mortensen were confirmed in Atlanta, Ga., where there is not a radiant group. Elmore Hays, who spent some time West after receiving the Message in Atlanta, has returned and is doing fine work. The Lakeland, Fla., Assembly probably owes its origin to the residence of Byron S. Lane. The veteran, Paul K. Dealy, has lived for many years at Fairhope, Ala. Miss Annie Reinke at Austin, Tex., is a center of radiance. Dr. and Mrs. Guy of Boston, now reside and work at St. Augustine, Fla., where recently they arranged for Mrs. Ford to lecture. Mesdames Stott and Christine at Louisville, Ky., are the cause of life and hope to many souls.

Among the colored friends who have done exceptional residence work may be mentioned Prof. Geo. W. Henderson, whose business college at Memphis, Tenn., is a center of reality where hundreds of students contact with the Light.

Mrs. [Page 8] Carolina W. Harris teaches the Summor colony as Harper's Ferry, W. Va. Mrs.H.G. Marshall has done a fine service in Cities of Arkansas.

Among those in past years who have either travelled or resided in the South and taught, may be mentioned our departed brothers, Joseph H. Hannen and Charles F. Haney; and our sisters Mesdames Susie Stewart of Richmond and Elizabeth Diggett of Chicago: all of illumined and blessed memory. To these may be added Mesdames Hannen, Hooper Harris, Claudia Coles, Mario Watson, Viola Duckett, Miss Georgiana Dean, Messrs. Tate, Remey, and last but not least, Roy Williams, whose shining traces cover a wide circuit. To these may again be added many souls who believe in God and the Day of His Appearance, but on account of church connections can only teach in a limited way. For example, Rev. Dr. Ponton of Atlanta, who lived and no doubt died a believer. We think, with a smile, of the brave Bishop Flipper, who is willing to take up the cudgels with the ministers in his Conference who oppose the Cause; and with a broader smile, of another portly Bishop who opposes, but whose wife is a firm believer. Harry Stillwell Edwards former Postmaster of Macon, Ga., has recently come out for the Cause and has written an article for the Press on the subject. Dr. S. C. Mitchell, former President of the University of South Carolina, wrote that he had given the Message of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá on many, many platforms. He heard ‘Abdu’l-Bahá speak at Lake Mohonk. The President of Fisk University, to whom Mrs. Parsons gave the Message, readily arranges for the travelling teachers. Last year he publicly declared that they were all watching the Bahá’í Movement with keen interest.

Mirza Fazel, the eminent teacher, was surprised to learn that there are few Assemblies South as compared with other regions. He felt that under similar conditions in Persia, half the friends would migrate to a section where fewer Assemblies were found.

Many of the colored have expressed, upon hearing the Message, the fervent wish that it might also reach the whites. When the whites become illumined, they almost invariably show a magnanimous spirit and teach the colored. The latter, while having the same wish for the advancement of the former, can only succeed in this measureably, in view of well known conditions. It is hoped in future that such thriving Cities as Louisville, Memphis, Little Rock, Oklahoma City, Ft. Worth, Dallas, New Orleans, Shreveport, Birmingham, Jacksonville, Charleston, Richmond, etc., will attract an increasing number of resident teachers, who will form growing places of contact for travelling teachers.

This report, we hope will prove helpful to those contemplating travelling in the South; and when we consider that there are over twenty-five millions of souls in the sixteen States included in the Southern Division by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in the Teaching Tablets, we begin to realize how vastly important it is not to tarry, but to be about this business of seed sowing and strive to have "a hand in this divine campaign."

"The greater the difficulties the greater must be your firmness and steadfastness." (‘Abdu’l-Bahá).

The following letter from Mrs. Mary Hanford Ford is shared with the friends because all are so interested in any news which pertains to the Temple work; and because we all know the Temple means Teaching; and teaching and spreading the Message will be the means of enlightening the people on the importance of the great Universal Temple. Mrs. Ford writes on "Experiences with the Temple."

Experiences with the Temple

"Since the Temple model has been on exhibition at the Kevorkian Gallery, its history has been very interesting. The model has a distinctive personality; to see it is like having an interview with a holy and magnificent personage.

For instance, one day the editor of a theatrical magazine came in. He was something of a scoffer, and had evidently heard unpleasant things about the Bahá’í [Page 9] movement. So he began to criticise the Temple. "It is a very pretty thing" he remarked in a superior tone, "but it is decidedly over-decorated; it will be an absurdity in its full size." So the guardian of the Temple very gently began to show him the significance of the decoration, - how each line and curve was an expression of a great thought or a noble principle, so that all the spiritual tradition and future aspiration of the human race seemed imbedded in this Temple. His face changed and grew soft. His eyes began to shine; then and there the spirit penetrated him, and though he came to stay five minutes, he was in the heavenly presence two hours and left it regretfully. Now he has opened his magazine to a monthly article on the Bahá’í Movement.

A boy of ten or eleven came rushing up the stairs one day and stopped suddenly on the threshold with a "Gee!" He had been studying architecture in school, and wanted to see this "new" thing. He could not repress his enthusiasm. I heard him talking about it the next day to some children on the street, and he brought in a little girl friend to share the treasure he ha. discovered.

Many very wealthy and dignified people have come also with the same result. George Grey Barnard, the sculptor, declares the Temple marks a new development in architecture, and the beginning of a great era in art. He by lieves it will be built not only in Chicago, but in its full size on Fort Washington Heights in New York, where a group of millionaires will place, it as an illustration of what religion has become to humanity. His wonderful blue eyes shine as he talks about it, his speaking hands weave sculptures in the air to fit his words, and he forgets everything but his marvellous theme.

The colored people come in and sit quietly drinking in the lovely Presence, which makes realities of love, brotherhood, the immortal life, and sympathy. No one leaves this Presence cold or critical, and no one can utter gossip or criticism or scandals within that lovely radiation. So one can imagine what the great Temple will be when it rears its stately head in the blue heaver and all men feel it!

From a recent Tablet we quote the following Words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá:

"Thy letter has been received. Its contents indicated that the plan of Mr. Bourgeois has been selected. It is very good."

The following Library Committee report from Mr. Chas. Mason Remey is shared in full because so many of the friends throughout the country are constantly seeking the information which this report furnishes:

Dear Friends of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá:

On board the S. S. Ipswich, Newport News, Virginia, June 16, 1920.

It has been some time since a formal report of the work of the Bahá’í Library Committee has been rendered to the friends in general of the Cause in America, although during the past year or more, reports of this work have been embodied in several general letters circulated among those more directly engaged in the organized work of teaching.

Now at the request of several members of the Committee of Nineteen on Teaching, this letter is being written.

As most of the fri nds know, the Bahá’í Library Committee was formed to take charge of the work of placing such of our books as are most fitted for general reading in public libraries throughout the country, hoping thereby to reach the vast reading public wich such literature as would be calculated to meet their needs through giving them the historical facts and the general as well as some of the more specific Principles of the Cause.

At the present time, after about three years work, our Committee reports having placed about 3 469 Volumes and bound pamphlets in 437 public libraries throughout the United States and her Territories. These libraries are those of Cities and towns, educational, institutional, etc., some of the more important of which have received from us as many as eleven books. [Page 10]

Report of the Bahá’í Library Committee

We are very happy to report that without an exception we have had the hearty cooperation of the librarians of the libraries where our books are shelved. Having had but a limited number of books to circulate, we deemed it wise to send only to those libraries of which the librarians had applied to us for books. This has been one of our few rules, and it has worked well.

During the past three years or so the expenses of the Library Committee have been provided by the Annual Convention. All of the books which we have circulated have been given to us for this purpose, therefore our only expenses have been those incurred for postage and packing, and in some instances for the binding of books and pamphlets, as well as for the catalogue cards which accompany each volume sent out.

The Library of Congress in Washington is the standard of excellence in this country in Library matters and system. Through first placing our books in the Library of Congress a catalogue card for each book is printed by the Library. Our Committee then orders a sufficient number of these cards to be able to send out one with each of the books to which they belong, thus our work has been so standardized along the lines of the most approved Library system that we are in the good favor of the Librarians, which is constantly being demonstrated by the many letters and other testimonials which we are constantly receiving from them.

This systematic work of our Library Committee has only been possible through the untiring and the continued services of the Committee Secretary, Miss Elizabeth Hopper. Several years of public service in the Library of Congress, as well as experience in other Libraries, has fitted Miss Hopper for this efficient service in the Cause, the value of which cannot be overestimated. This means a great deal of work, for with every package of books sent out, there is sent an accompanying letter, and in addition to this our Secretary keeps a complete card index record of all work done. We, therefore, know which Bahá’í books have been placed in each Library, so with this data in hand there is no danger of our duplicating our donations.

Up unto this present time the Library Committee, with but a few exceptions, has carried on its work independent of the help of the Bahá’ís through the various Assemblies. At the outset of our greater activity, we obtained a list of all the public libraries in the country over twenty-five hundred in all. A general letter was written offering books upon application.

There followed many responses.

Then a year or more later another general letter was sent out, this time only to those librarians who had not responded to the first. The result was that we had a number of new applications.

Now the time is at hand when the Library Committee should have a great deal of cooperation from the friends in the various Assemblies, as well as from our travelling teachers. The following suggestions, if acted upon by the friends, will be of much help in the carrying on of this library work.

(a) For the friends to visit the public libraries, call for the Bahá’í books, and refer their friends to those libraries where our books are shelved.

(b) Where there are no Bahá’í books, for the friends to talk with the librarians and ask them (the librarians) to apply to the Committee’s Secretary, Miss Elizabeth Hopper, P. O. Box 1319, Washington, D. C., for books. We send out no books until the Librarian of the library has applied for the same.

(c) Since our funds are quite limited, we have not considered the purchase of books, but have depended upon donations to supply us with books for our work. Therefore, if any of the friends can supply us with books in single volumes or in quantities, we will be happy to take charge of these donations, and place them where in our judgment they will best serve the Cause.

Faithfully yours In the service of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Chas. Mason Romey, Chairman Bahá’í Library Committee. lease address all communications to Miss Elizabeth Hopper, Secretary Bahá’í Library Committee, P. O. Box 1319, Washington, D. C. [Page 11]

Library Work

We have another very important item of information about library work, namely:

A Bahá’í Library has been started in the Pilgrim House at Haifa, and books in any language will be desired acquisition. A thoughtful Bahá’í sister travelling there the past winter, took with her an entire and complete set of all Bahá’í publications in English, excepting the bound volumes of the Star of the West. It would be a very beautiful and effective service if the bound volumes of the "Star" could be contributed some time, - for a Bahá’í Library is not complete without the "Stars" as they contain so much that is a true record and history of the Cause.

One of the wise sayings of Mirza Fazel

"We are alive by the cooperation and assistance of each other."

Service in Montana

From Montana comes a story of service which is full of real love and sacrifice:

For the past two years or more Mr. and Mrs. A. C. Killius have been travelling teachers. They left their home in Spokane for the purpose only of sowing the seed of the Kingdom throughout the Cities of Montana, as this was one of the States mentioned by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá at that time where the Message had not been spread. In order to have sufficient means to sustain them, they sold almost all of their household belongings and this together with Mr. Killius's business of home portrait photographer, enabled them to move about frequently. During this time they have spread the Glorious Bahá’í Message broadcast, and were very fortunate in having a number of splendid articles placed in the leading newspapers of the State, and confirmations in every way successively reached them. They have served with a true Bahá’í spirit of love and devotion, and such services and offerings of love attracted many to the Cause. They have prepared a most lovely shining pathway for those who will come after them, following up their great work of seed sowing, for it is evident that they have been working, as the Master has instructed us all to work:

"With all the power and energy that God has given us."

Their present address is 511 Eleventh St. W., Great Falls, Montana.

Work in Western Canada

Miss Marion Jack has written a most interesting letter about the work in Western Canada. We quote excerpts, as follows:

"The soil is extremely fertile, and the Great Gardener is surely busy in this field, otherwise the souls who are receptive would not be found so frequently, for it is very wonderful how a stranger who does not consider herself either a teacher or a speaker, could meet and give the Message to well over a hundred. The Pres't of the Women's Canadian Club has, at the instigation of a former President I met, invited a Bahá’í speaker to occupy their platform when one comes this way. Then a Mrs. Dunn, a brilliant woman in the world of letters, has given us a good write-up in "Fair Play" a weekly publication that is widely read, and the Editor has, through this article, become interested."

In addition to this, we gather from Miss Jack's letter that she had twice been able to display her pictures of Acca at Art Exhibitions, and through this many, many people have learned of the Cause. The great interest manifested everywhere, at every meeting, public and private, and through all personal interviews, shows that the district in Canada where Miss Jack is working - Vancouver and its environs is very promising indeed, and as Miss Jack writes: "Proofs are in evidence all the time of the truth of the statement of the Heavenly Beloved One that everywhere people now have capacity. Never since it has been my joy to serve. have I seen so many thinking and unbiased souls as in the West, and all I ask is that if it is possible for any Bahá’í friends who are seeking for a new field of labor to come as far west as British Columbia, that they come and live in Vancouver. When a Bahá’í home is opened up here, meetings can begin."

It is Miss Jack's hope and desire to open a studio in Vancouver, and [Page 12] there have the Bahá’í meetings, but it has not been possible thus far.

This is but the Springtime in British Columbia but the crop which is beginning to sprout is in a very healthy conditions so a big wonderful harvest may be expected.

From here, as elsewhere, come letters full of joy over the prospects for the future, and Miss Jack adds:

“It is with joy that I read of the probability or visit from our dear Persian brother, Mirza Fazel. It is a great thing to have something like this to direct the new friends attention to.”

How happly Mirza Fazel will be when he visits Vancouver and finds the field so prepared and hearts ready! I will witness the Master’s Words fulfilled: “Some can be compared unto prepared lamps, only waiting the Spirit’s breath to illumine them.”

Another one of Mirza Fazel’s wise sayings soms to fit right here for Miss Jack does not consider herself a great public speaker, and the secret of her success is found in this saying:

“The only thing which will enable one to give the Message to the people of the world, is not eloquence nor logic: it is rather pure faith, love and ecstacy.”

Mrs. Ann Parmerton had an interesting experience the past month in her work in Cleveland speaking at the North Congregational Church where they have an open Forum.

Socialists, materials, Christians, Jews and others were there represented in the meeting where she spoke and gave the Message of the Kingdom: a very mixed audience and just such a representation as usualy appears at an open forum in any City. A number were attracted and asked for literature, for the most part on the social and economic teachings. The Pastor of the church is Mr. David Reese Williams. He extended an invitation for a return engagement there in the Fall, and he will welcome to his church any Bahá’í speaker visiting in Cleveland.

Other private meetings were arranged in Cleveland for both the colored and white people, and there were many private interviews with strangers and friends, resulting in attraction, zeal, onthusiasm and a larger unity.

While Mrs. Parmerton was in Sandusky, Ohio, new spirit was revived in the Assembly, and through Divine confirmations, the Banner of the Covenant was manifest, which means a quickening into real life and activity. There are some beautiful souls in Sandusky who have re-established the Cause there and arisen with a renewed energy to spread the Glad-tidings.

Mrs. Parmerton also visited Akron, Dayton, Hamilton and Middletown, Ohio, and wherever she goes, she keeps well in mind and heart the following Words of the Master:

“Enkindle the Fire of the Love of the Covenant. for in this Day the loving Power in the whole world is the Power of the Covenant.”

“Love persistently and patiently applied will in the end remove all barriers, cause unity, and permit consultation.” (From the terse and wise utterances of Mirza Fazel).

“Mother” Beecker gives some very encouraging news of the progress of the work everywhere she has been travelling.

She spent two very profitable weeks in New Haven, Conn., giving the Message both in public and private meetings, so that a large number of people in that important City have heard the Glad-tidings. Interest was very general, but the Theosophists in particular seemed very much attracted; a group of them attend several of the meeting, and said the reason they did so was because there was life in Bahá’í meetings. Now through this service and the work also of the Misses Thompson, residents of New Haven and who have been striving to hold aloft the Bahá’í Ideals there for so long, the field in New Haven is quite ready for another travel— [Page 13] ling teacher. "Mother" Beecher also served in New Jersey for a short time, and then returned to Canada where she remained for a few days in Montreal, then went on to Brockville, Ont. Of her experience there Mother Beecher writes:

"I have found some great souls seeking light and peace, mostly church people who have grown discontented, and are reaching out after something rational. That a privilege to teach Christians from their own Bible! I have longed and prayed for years for this bounty, and strange to say since I came into Canada last October my work has been nearly all among that class. Also among some Jews. My work here has been private, that is in homes, rather than in public meetings."

For one like Mother Beecher, who will on the 26th of July be 80 rears old (or 80 years young as in her case), we can readily see that the limitations of the hunan physical do not always operate when the spirit within one takes full control, and we strive "to live and move and have cur being" in the Center of Life.

Mother Beecher will continue her work in Canada until the latter part of July, and then she will join the colony of loving servers at Green Acre.

From Papeete, Tahiti (an Island in the South Pacific-French Territory), we have received a letter from Mrs. Louise Bosch, shared with us by Mrs. True.

Mr. and Mrs. John D. Bosch left San Francisco early last Spring travelling to that far away Island of the Sea, leaving material rest, tranquility and the comforts of the modern world, sanctified from attachments, and, responding to the Call of the Center of the Covenant that teachers should travel to the Islands of the Pacific.

The Creative Word of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá had gone forth and souls, even in that far away corner of the world, were found, the soil of whose hearts was so prepared that almost immediately attraction to the Cause was manifest. The angels of heaven truly had prepared the way for these servers. Soon after their arrival, they gave the Message to Mr. Alexander Drollet (the Government Interpreter at Tahiti) and his wife. What a precious story Sister Louise tells us of the illumination of these souls! She writes:

"He (Mr. Drollet) was the first who became a believer and the first who heard the Truth. We presented the Truth to him and his wife in French at their home, not long after our arrival here. He uses the Greatest NAME every morning, and he prays that wonderful prayer on page 58 of the Divine Plan. Without our telling him, he has selected that prayer for himself. In every way his rapid spiritual growth has amazed us, and words are unable to express our thankfulness to God. How great is the Mercy of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to have permitted us to come here to find such a soul! Mr. Drollet told us that always he had wished and hoped to do something some time for the Polynesians here, and he said that he knew now that he would translate some of the Teachings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá into that language."

The letter is full of the sweetest spirit, and of the best news of all, and that is, that these two blessed souls are teaching and interesting many, so in that Island of the South Pacific a goodly number perhaps through the Mercy of God, and through the confirmations descending upon those two radiant souls John and Louise Bosch, — will become members of the Bahá’í Family.

"Sacrifice all your thoughts, words, and actions to bring the knowledge of the Love of God into every heart." (‘Abdu’l-Bahá).

Mrs. Helen S. Goodall, Mrs. Ella Goodall Cooper and Mrs. A. J. Frankland of Berkeley — those precious, "ancient" friends on the Pacific Coast, visited in Southern California recently.

Mrs. Cooper spoke on "The Bahá’í Movement for World Brotherhood" at the Recreation Center in Santa Barbara; and also addressed an audience at the large and fashionable Hotel Arlington. Her talk was informal, but Ella always presents the Message in such an appealing way, than even the people who usually gather at [Page 14] such a hotel, stop their pursuit of material pleasures long enough to listen, and always there are attracted souls.

From a letter we know how confirmed was the service, for a friend writes: "The attention given to the expounding of the Principles was most gratifying, and Miss Koch writes that some real work was done in making a number come to a decision that they really were Bahá’ís and glad to say so!"

Mrs. Frankland spoke before the Theosophical Society while in Santa Barbara. She is rendering such an effective service that it is hoped she will be able to travel to many centers.

An interesting card has been sent to us announcing a series of "Camp Fire Talks" at Oriental Point, Manhattan Beach, near New York City. These Talks are given every Saturday evening, and are under the auspices of the Bahá’í Fellowship.

Dr. and Mrs. Frederico Valles Vargas and Mrs. Maria Hersch of Buenos Aires, Argentina, S. A., have arrived in California, and will make a tour of this country, visiting the large Bahá’í Assemblies. These new friends from Buenos Aires sent a cable of greeting to the Bahá’í Convention in New York. Each one of the three has given talks on the Bahá’í Cause in Argentina since they heard the Message last September. They represent the flower of Latin-American culture.

It is hoped the friends everywhere will give these interesting new sisters and brother a warm and wonderful welcome. Perhaps through this sincere welcome and love and the confirmations of the Holy Spirit, we may "start spiritual ripples that may grow into larger and larger waves" as dear Martha Root puts it. Anyway we cannot imagine what the results of this journey of the friends from Buenos Aires will be, so great are the possibilities. We know that the indissoluble bond of the Love of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá will be demonstrated; their loving friendship will be valued, and a wealth of friendships will come to them.

We are beginning to gather fruits from the beautiful services rendered by Miss Martha Root on that great South American trip of last year which has added pages to the history of the Bahá’í Cause on this Continent. Here are a few of the results which are forthcoming:

"O Theosophista", the Theosophical Magazine of Brazil, South America published in Rio de Janeiro, has on pages 252, 253, 254, 255 and 256 of the April number a most excellent article entitled "The Message Bahá’í to the Spiritual World". A short history of the Báb, Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá is given; the twelve Vital Principles are explained and the "to live the life" quoted in full with some selections from Hidden Words. It was written by Guido Gnocchi of Santos, Brazil, under his Brazilian nom de plume Angelo Guido. A footnote states that "Information about the Bahá’í Movement will be given to any one who wishes to write to Rua Visconde do Ric Branco, 61, Santos, Brazil, S. A."

Two other splendid articles on the Bahá’í Cause written by this same author have come from South America recently. Cannot some of the Bahá’ís write Guido Gnocchi a letter of love and appreciation? He said to Martha Root, "We are so young, please feed us." Guido Gnocchi is an Italian by birth and a Bahá’í Savonarola in spirit.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá in a Tablet to Martha Root received in May, said:

"Praise be to God the Call of the Kingdom has been raised in South America, and the seeds of Guidance have been sowed in those cities and regions. Certainly the heat of the Sun of Reality, the rain of the Eternal Bounty and the Breeze of the Love of God will make them germinate. Have confidence." [Page 15]

Teaching Committee Report

From the news items of a few of the activities in the Cause as herein recorded, we can see how the Springtime of this New Dispensation is being heralded; but there is need for many teachers. The soil of human hearts everywhere is but awaiting the gift of the seed-sower - the gift which contains the germ of real life, the Message of the New Day.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá tells us:

"The believers of God in reality, display much effort; but this effort must be expended in the right direction."

He tells us also that He has drawn for us "the plan of God"; that He has "explained the Principles of Bahá’u’lláh."

"Now the promotion of those Principles depends upon their (the believers) co-operation.

We have in these last Words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá one of the ways to attainment, to the accomplishment of the service - at least in part to which He has been and still is calling us. It is certain that all efforts will be immeasureably successful if there is the necessary co-operation.

The Center of the Covenant, tells us to travel and teach, teach the Cause "or choose others and send them" (Divine Plan, page 30). "Now this is the time that you may arise and perform this most great service; travel throughout the world and call the people to the Kingdom of God." How is this to be accomplished save through co-operation? For what other time shall we wait? "These numbered days" are getting fewer and fewer. How very brief indeed is the remaining time, the last hour of our supreme opportunity for the most heavenly and glorious service ever vouchsafed to man. The saints and chosen ones throughout the ages longed to live at this time, and how can we who are so privileged and blessed, show our thankfulness and devotion save through sacrificial services rendered day and night.

Another Instruction of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá is ever present:

"Become ye firmly rooted in this great aim; send ye teachers to all directions .... Ever do I beg for you Divine Confirmations . . . . My Spirit is with each one of you."

From the Utterances of Bahá’u’lláh, we quote the following:

"Become ye united in the Days of God. Through this, His Cause will be spread amongst the servants and the Fragrances be wafted over the Cities. Hearken ye to that which the Pen of Revelation advises you on the part of the Mighty! Do ye not disagree in the Cause of God, for thereby the hearts of the unbelievers are rejoiced. Gather ye together with joy and fragrance, then peruse the verses of the Merciful, whereby the doors of knowledge are opened to your hearts. Then ye shall find yourselves in the station of firmness, and will see your souls in manifest joy."

‘Abdu’l-Bahá is Divinely merciful unto us when He tells us that -

"To-day no Power can conserve the oneness of the Bahá’í world save the Covenant of GOD."

And this oneness begets a loving co-operation.

Issued at Washington, D. C. July 19, 1920.

The Teaching Committee By Mariam Haney, Secly.