National Teaching Committee Bulletins/1920/November 15/Text

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National Teaching Committee Bulletins November 15, 1920

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[Page 1] A copy of the "Diary Cards" of Mirza Ahmad Sohrab reporting some of the salient features of the Teaching Tour of His Honor, Jenabe Fazel. We feel it is very important that these daily reports (each one written on a postal card) should be shared with all the friends as much as possible, for they record some of the wise sayings of our blessed teacher, and graphically describe meetings and interviews.

We hope all reports in regard to the Canadian tour will be carefully and even prayerfully perused for they are educational in character, and will be conducive to our intellectual and spiritual well being. They are more wonderfully inspiring than we can express.

This record herewith is a complete report of the Canadian work as written by Mirza Ahmad Sohrab, with the exception of the cards reporting the St. John, N. B., service, which were published in Bulletin No. 5.

716 Pine Ave., Montreal, Canada, October 15, 1920

The teacher's first day in Montreal was one of preparation and interviews with the representatives of the Press. Leaving St. John last night, the train entered the station about 9 next morning. Mrs. Maxwell was most happy to welcome Jenabe Fazel in her home which was blessed by the Presence of the Beloved in 1912. This home is a great center of spiritual activity and now with the coming of this new light there will appear a wonderful confirmation. Plans for the week were detailed, the various meetings arranged and articles which have been published in the papers. Jenabe Fazel was most pleased with all that the friends have accomplished to make this visit of momentous power to Canada. In the evening there were a few guests around the bounteous table and then the teacher was taken to a joint meeting of Theosophists and Esperantists to give a lecture on the "New Vision of Immortality and the Universal Auxiliary Language." The room was filled to the door and the 9 proofs for the Immortality of the soul were most illuminating. Having given half an hour to the first subject he then took up the second with a familiarity and intellectual vigor that astonished the audience. After the talk they all gathered around him and like thirsty ones were asking for more cups of the water of life. It was a very well attended meeting, the faces were alight with joy and the eyes danced with animation. May all attain to this station. Ahmad.

716 Pine Ave., Montreal, Canada, October 16, 1920

The days that are dedicated to the service of the Cause are fruitful. Jenabe Fazel is happy because he can serve daily and hourly. He has no other aim; his mind and heart are filled with Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Today two important souls called on him -- a great lawyer and economist who belongs to the "Equitist Movement", a movement whose object is to make "service" instead of "money" the medium of exchange. This man gave an account of this plan and Jenabe Fazel explained the economic principle of the Bahá’í Cause. The next soul was the new Unitarian minister in whose church Jenabe will speak on Wednesday night. It is the same church in which ‘Abdu’l-Bahá spoke. "Neighborliness and relationship" he said to the minister "in the day of Moses was limited to the next door was" [Page 2] and a few blood-members, but in this day the Bushmen of Australia, the tribes of Africa, and the Chinese are not any one's neighbors, but are brothers and sisters. The circle of neighborhood and relationship is so widened that it has become a straight line. For this reason Bahá’u’lláh has addressed the world of humanity: 'Ye are the leaves of one tree and the fruits of one branch.' In this scientific age everything must be reversed, the old laws of human association will work no longer. They do not fit the present stature of society. We must attain to a new height, respire a new air, speak in a new language, roam in a new rose-garden, gather new imperishable flowers and unveil the face of the new Beloved of Truth." Ahmad.

716 Pine Ave., Montreal, Canada, October 17, 1920

Every day brings its own quota of spiritual activity, for Jenabe Fazel does not like to sit quiet or remain silent. This afternoon a reporter from the Gazette called and had a long interesting interview. Yesterday's Standard had a fine article on the Cause and almost every day notices appear in the local press. Then the members of "Fabian Society" -- a mild socialistic movement founded in England about 30 years ago called at Mrs. Maxwell's.. One of them explained the aim of their society to the teacher from the East and in turn he gave them an eloquent talk on the spiritual economic and divine socialism. They became most interested and asked several questions. In the evening Jenabe was invited to speak at the "Union Congregational Church" --a colored institution. The church was filled with more than 400 white and colored. Rev. Arnold Gregory, a very fine minister introduced "the Persian scholar". The subject of Jenabe Fazel was "The Brotherhood of Man." The large audience listened with rapt attention. The reporter of the "World" -- a colored paper wrote down the lecture to be reproduced in that organ for the benefit of its vast number of readers. After the lecture many people flocked near the platform to shake hands with "their brother from the East". In his talk he referred to the Colored Bahá’ís in different parts of the United States and mentioned the "Rainbow Circle" organized in New York City for affiliating and uniting the two races. May these spiritual emotions grow day by day. -- Ahmad.

716 Pine Ave., Montreal, Canada. October 18, 1920

The Montreal Gazette, Star, and Herald have published very fine articles about the Cause and Jenabe Fazel. In future these articles will be as an index to measure the promotion of the Cause in this day, when the teachers are travelling to and fro throughout the earth to herald the establishment of the Kingdom of God. This morning Jenabe took a long walk toward Mount Royal and spoke of the beauty of nature, admiring the golden yellow and purple colors of the leaves. "The leaves have no will of their own", he said, "They are blown hither and thither by the blowing of the wind. Likewise, a Bahá’í teacher with the least desire on his part is moved by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit". This was a day set aside for the friends and so at 4 o'clock, they all came to the home of Mrs. Maxwell. Jenabe Fazel gave an intimate spiritual Bahá’í talk and then they all asked questions. It is in these sweet hours that the beauty and gentleness of this great teacher becomes manifest as the sun in midday. With a few simple explanations on his part, the problem is solved and the inquirer is made happy; no controversy, no contention, no argument. He said:- "The believers are like unto the fire. When they come together, a great flame bursts forth. If they do not regularly meet, ashes will cover the face of the fire and little by little extinction will be the result. When the believers attend the meetings they must impart to each other their knowledge, their information, and their faith. This will increase their [Page 3] "love and conviction." Refreshment and buffet supper was served, and until 9 o'clock the friends were swimming in the ocean of love, joy, and tender spirituality. Ahmad.

716 Pine Ave., Montreal, Canada. October 19, 1920

Another glorious day passed in the history of the Cause in Montreal. The hours of the day were spent quietly and in the sweet association of the friends. In the afternoon Mr. Albert Vail arrived from Chicago to unite his spiritual forces with those of Jenabe Fazel in proclaiming the Call of the Kingdom.

Tonight the meeting was in the large hall of Ritz Carlton Hotel. It was widely advertised. The meeting was arranged by the Bahá’ís, themselves, and the rent of the hall alone was $100. The subject was: "The New Ideals of the Age", a most fascinating theme. When at 8 o'clock Jenabe Fazel and others entered the hall, it was filled with several hundred men and women -- all eager to hear the message of unity. Mr. Vail opened the meeting with a splendid address on the life and teachings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. He fascinated the audience with his deep earnestness and eloquence and paved the way for the great teacher from the East. Then Jenabe spoke in the language of the mystic East, his every word like a star shining in the consciousness of those who were present. He told them of the past that is gone and will never come back and gave them the radiant picture of the future world of law and order -- a world the ideals of which are common education, common ideals, and common service -- a world independent, but inter-dependent -- a world of joy and peace. At the end of the lecture, many came forward and expressed their thanks and appreciation. We walked back home, enfolded in the loving arms of the Center of the Covenant, singing the songs of His praise. Ahmad.

716 Pine Ave., Montreal, Canada. October 20, 1920

In 1912, our Beloved ‘Abdu’l-Bahá spoke from the same platform in the Unitarian Church. How significant that 8 years afterward Jenabe Fazel comes to this city and speaks to the same congregation and delivers the same message of brotherhood! The Rev. Mr. Snow is the present minister, just arrived, nevertheless his mind was open, his heart beating with warm blood of welcome and the invitation was extended. A fine man! Another link in the chain of circumstances! He is the college mate of Mr. Vail. They studied theology together in the same divinity school. For this reason the presence of Mr. Vail was doubly welcomed. The same interpreter who had the privilege to interpret for the Center of the Covenant in 1912 was also here. Mr. Vail was delighted with the whole plan.

At 8:15 p.m., we all went to church. Another thing is that the church itself is built by Mr. Maxwell and is the most artistic as regard to windows, lights, etc. Mr. Vail gave a glorious preliminary talk for half an hour and then Jenabe Fazel spoke on the "Universal Consciousness of Christ". He pointed out the fact that Bahá’u’lláh has come to universalize the Christ consciousness so that every man and woman may receive a large portion of the bounties of the Creator. When humanity comes into the realization that they are all kindred spirits, that they are all created by one Creator - then transmute that knowledge into service and love we can then say the Kingdom of God is established in the hearts. We must all work for that Day and pray for it's full manifestation. Ahmad.

716 Pine Ave., Montreal, Canada. October 21, 1920

The Bahá’ís in Montreal are most happy because God has showered upon them the spiritual gifts of a great teacher. Jenabe Fazel like unto a brilliant [Page 4] star shines in the heavens of their consciousness and daily and hourly by example and explanation shows them the path of the Bahá’í life. This afternoon in the parlor of Ritz Carlton he met from 3 to 6 p.m., a number of inquirers who had many questions on reincarnation, on immortality, on Divinity, and other interesting religious topics. He said: "Whenever we make up our mind to turn our hearts to God, all the forces of the world will try to drag us away from Him. Steadfast and firm we must advance, walk in the Highway, enter the Divine school and master the lessons of humility and submission".

Again he said: "Jealousy is like a fire that burns away all the flowers of amity. When we are envious, we can not see any good even in the angels. Jealousy is in reality hell. We must deliver ourselves from it thro the power of the Word of God."

Again: "It is written in the Gospel that God is love. Therefore, whosoever has love, has God. In whatsoever home you find love, there you will find God. With love we can conquer the world. Without love we are weaker than a babe".

During the day with Mr. Vail and others he visited the famous Notre Dame cathedral and then motored thro the large city. He enjoyed the sight of busy streets and lovely parks. Those who are near him, consider it a great privilege.

Ahmad. 716 Pine Ave., Montreal, Canada.

October 22, 1920

This was a most perfect day — the azure heaven and the vitalizing air inviting everyone out. Wine, wine was in the atmosphere. Mrs. Maxwell ordered a cab and took Jenabe Fazel, fr. Vail, and others to the top of "Mount Royal". As the party ascended they spoke about the King of Kings and the royalty of the Spirit. The vast city, spread before them was a wonderful sight. They were reminded of the day when ‘Abdu’l-Bahá blessed this Mountain and made it truly "Royal"; and they looked toward the day when a great Mashrekal Azkar will be built on its summit.

On their return two brilliant women interviewed Jenabe Fazel and the discussion revolved around some of the Principles of Bahá’u’lláh. They were greatly attracted. At 3 p.m., Jenabe went to the Hotel Ritz to meet those who called. Two women, having read his name in the newspapers in Magog, a town one hundred miles distant, had come to hear him — so he spoke to them for nearly one hour about the Cause and they received some literature. Others came and asked questions until 6 o’clock.

For supper he was invited to the house of Mrs. Pomeroy. An oriental dish was served and then the believers started to come for the regular friday meeting. Nearly 40 people were present and Jenabe Fazel gave them a sweet and beautiful talk which uplifted the hearts of the hearers to the Kingdom of joy and happiness. Those who were interested asked many questions and the meeting was brought to a close with a prayer by Mr. Vail. Al together it was a fruitful tree radiant and scintillating. Jenabe was tireless and his smile won all hearts.

Ahraad. 716 Pine Ave., Montreal, Canada.

October 23, 1920

The light of Truth is slowly permeating and the hearts are being attracted to the Kingdom of Abhá. There is nothing more wonderful than to watch the gradual growth of the souls under the warm rays of the Sun of Love. Jenabe Fazel is supplying this heating energy and those who are around him, see how the buds are opening quietly and beautifully under the warm rays of the orb of sympathy.

Today, in the Hotel Ritz Carlton, several inquirers came and the questions they asked were various and interesting. To one, he said: "The primal object of a Bahá’í teacher must be to attract the souls. He should say or do nothing that will antagonize his audience." To another one, he said: "Those who accept the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh, but do not believe in the Manifestation are also Bahá’ís." [Page 5]

October 24, 1920

Faith has many degrees. The soul who accepts the Teachings is on the road to a higher goal. We must not force the food thro his throat, but, show him love, let him read the writings and in time his faith will become perfect." To another, he said: "We are proclaiming the Covenant at all time. The power of the Covenant is in the Principles of Bahá’u’lláh. When you proclaim one, you are proclaiming the other. Spiritual growth is gradual. We can not hasten it. We can not retard it." For three hours Jenabe Fazel spoke with the utmost sweetness and the inquirers were perfectly satisfied. They were born anew. The light shone forth and the darkness was dispelled. These are great days for Canada and its results in the future will be tremendous. Love is unveiled and a new divine scene is witnessed.

Ahmad. 716 Pine Ave., Montreal, Canada. October 24, 1920.

October 25, 1920

Jenabe Fazel called this morning on Professor William Caldwell, of MacGill University. He is Professor of Philosophy and two of his famous works ane "Pragmatism and Idealism," and "Schopenhauer's System." Both men talked together for nearly one hour on the deeper problems of religion, philosophy and ethics. Jenabe gave him a synopsis of the Bahá’í Principles.

Mrs. Caldwell is also a most brilliant woman, an artist and a literary soul. She is much attracted to the Cause she is a wonderful, clear speaker.

In the afternoon Jenabe and others were invited to dinner by Mr. and Mrs. French -- a fine, Bahá’í couple -- recently married as happy as a pair of larks. Here a number of souls were asked to come and listen to Jenabe's exposition of Teachings and they were full of questions. Every one felt very happy in the "darling nest" of Mr. and Mrs. French. They are two blessed souls.

The most important part of the day was the meeting at the headquarter of Zionist Federation. More than 200 Jews were present. Especial invitations were sent out and the meeting was announced in the Jewish Daily. subject of the talk was: "The Progress of the Jews in Persia." The President spoke on the relations that existed between the Jews and the Persians. Jenabe gave a most excellent lecture about the conditions of the Jews in Persia and concluded it with the Prophecies of the Bible about their return to Palestine and the Principles and the life of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá were presented to the eager audience. A vote of thanks was given to the Persian Philosopher. The people were all alive and the interest in the Cause was intense.

Ahmad. 716 Pine Ave., Montreal, Canada, October 25, 1920.

Mrs. Maxwell worked hard with Mrs. T. de Grey Stewart, President of Montreal Women's Club to arrange for Jenabe Fazel to lecture before that gathering. At first she was a little unyielding but now that the meeting went off with repeated applauses, she is gloriously enthusiastic. The meeting was in the large Hall of the Y.M.C.A. It was the opening meeting for the season and nearly 400 women were present. At first Mr. A. A. Vail delivered an eloquent address on the subject: "Days of Reconstruction in Palestine" and then Jenabe Fazel captured all the hearts through his talk of the "Movement of Modern Women in Persia". Actually the audience was beside "herself" with rapture. Waves of Spiritual Confirmation rolled over Jenabe as he rose from point to point, unfolding concretely before the eager eyes of these women a joyous picture of the future perfection of humanity.

"The Women of this age" he said "must prepare themselves; -- so that they enter in the Parliaments of the world and stop war. These Congresses of the present filled with kind-hearted men, intensify prejudices and through machinations they keep nations separate and in warlike mood. They are not lovers of humanity but are selfish and bigoted; only the women, through their participation in the [Page 6] Councils of the peoples, can bring to a close the chapter of carnage and bloodshed.

The women must not sit idle; they must arise with a new power combine their forces and achieve momentous results. Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá declared the equality of men and women 70 years ago, and from that time on this Cause has advanced." In brief, this was a glorious day. Every one witnessed the Confirmation of the Holy Spirit." The motto of the Women's Club is Bahá’í in Spirit: "In essentials, unity; in Non-essentials, liberty; in all things, charity."

Ahmad.

716 Pine Avenue, Montreal, Canada, October 26, 1920

A farewell meeting in the home of Mrs. Maxwell; many friends and interested ones gathering around Jenabe Fazel, a fiery and eloquent address on the Universality of the Cause delivered; the faces turned toward the Kingdom and the hearts illumined with the light of inspiration. This was the climax of all other meetings, for the people had come to see the teacher from the East and express to him how much they have come to love him. Many thousand people heard the Message and innumerable souls were attracted. Jenabe Fazel has been delighted with the work in Montreal. In 1912 ‘Abdu’l-Bahá scattered the seeds in the fields, Jenabe watered them. It is impossible to express in words the services of Mr. and Mrs. Maxwell, Mr. Bolles, Mrs. Cowles, Miss Savage, Mr. and Mrs. French, the Pomeroys, and others. Every one worked hard to make this trip a great spiritual success and so it was. The doors were opened on all sides and the Confirmations of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá were witnessed in all the large and small gatherings. Jenabe poured his universal love upon all and made everyone conscious of the fact that the Primal Aim of Bahá’u’lláh has been nothing else but Love and Amity. He is leaving behind many hearts filled with light, many eyes opened and many ears unlocked. His gentle and loving spirit encircled all. Like unto a bird he sang his song and now he is ready to take another flight and sing in another rose-garden.

Ahmad.

Hotel Waverly, Toronto, Canada, October 28, 1920

With the inspiration of the Holy Spirit having rendered great spiritual services to the people of Montreal, Jenabe Fazel left that city today at 10 a.m., for Toronto. Many of the friends came to the station to bid him farewell. His beaming face told the story that with the Bahá’ís there is no separation but they are eternally in the Presence of the Beloved. Looking over the peaceful plain he said: "The city of Montreal will be illumined with the lights of Truth. While here I did not experience any preference. The people were considerate and the friends were in a state of divine attraction." The party entered Union Station at 5:45 p.n., and Mr. A. Vail and Miss Martha Root welcomed Jenabe Fazel as he descended from the train. Having taken a taxi, he was brought to Hotel Waverly a clean lovely place. At 8 p.m, Jenabe went to the home of Dr. A. D. Watson, the author of the famous book of "20th Plane". He had invited many people to meet the Persian teacher and both himself and his wife welcomed him with open heart. The discussion turned on the poetry of Persia and the meaning the "Nightingale and Rose". The teacher said "The nightingale" means the prophet and the "rose" is the beauty of God for which the prophets long. Then he spoke in detail about the history of the life of Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá as the audience knew very little about this movement. Everyone was delighted and it was long after eleven when Jenate returned to his hotel tired but as happy as could be. He lives the life of the Spirit and is burned with the fire of the Love of God.

Ahmad. [Page 7]

Hotel Waverly, Toronto, Canada, October 29, 1920

There is no doubt whatsoever that Jenabe Fazel is daily and hourly confirmed by the Power of the Holy Spirit; this became most clear today. At 12 o'clock he was invited by Professor James Alfred Dale to speak in the University of Toronto before the large Department of Social Service. More than one hundred students were present. With conviction, fire and authority the teacher from the East presented a winsome picture of the progress of women in Persia through the Appearance of Bahá’u’lláh. For one hour they listened with rapt attention, taking down notes. Professor Dale offered the thanks of the audience to the most instructive lecturer they had listened to for years and that after all the ideals of the East and the West are becoming one. All the students were most attracted and Mr. Vail and Miss Root were there to give them literature or get their addresses for further correspondence. Jenabe Fazel was most pleased with the results. In the evening he was again invited to the house of Dr. Watson. He had asked a number of writers, authors, Doctors and Professors to come and hear the Oriental Sage. His lecture was "International Relations from a Religious Standpoint". After the talk for three hours they bombarded the most varied questions from Philosophy, science, religion, arts, etc., and Jenabe Fazel sitting calm and undisturbed answered everyone with greatest love, penetration and knowledge. The audience was amazed, wonder struck and at last one of them said: "I want to ask a question from Professor Fazel. Is there another teacher in his country who can answer every conceivable question?" "Amongst the Bahá’ís of the East" he said "there are hundreds, nay thousands. They are graduated from the University of Bahá’u’lláh and have taken undergraduate courses with ‘Abdu’l-Bahá." About midnight Jenabe returned to the hotel still fresh and young. "Is there nothing else to do but sleep" he asked.

Ahmad.

Royal Connaught Hotel, Hamilton, Canada. October 30, 1920

This was an active day for Jenabe Fazel. He got up early and was thinking how he should reach larger numbers of people. At 10 o'clock Mr. Benjamin, the spiritual medium, the one through whom the "20th Plane" was dictated called and immediately the discussion was turned on the higher plane of life. He became extremely attracted and desires now to do everything in his power to promote the principles of the Centre of the Covenant. Six weeks ago the "higher Intelligence" had told him in a trance that a great Persian teacher will come to Canada and promulgate the ideals of brotherhood and that a Universal Temple of Worship will be built in America -- the doors of which will be open to all the nations and religions. At 1 o'clock p.m., accompanied by Mr. Vail and others Jenabe started for Hamilton. Miss N. Gates, the Secretary of Theosophical Society was at the station with her car and took the party to Royal Connaught. At 6 o'clock Jenabe was the guest of Mrs. Laidlaw for dinner and at 8 o'clock a general meeting was held in the Royal Temple Hall. The meeting has been announced in the papers for three days and excellent articles published. Several hundred people were present. At first Mr. Vail gave a resume of the Cause and then Jenabe Fazel delivered his talk on the "New Vision of Immortality", ending it with the life of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. The audience was asked to write their questions on paper slips and there were more than two dozen. Jenabe was kept there answering them until 11:30 o'clock. The President, C. A. Stone, thanked heartily the speakers and the audience applauded and seconded his move. It was altogether a beautiful, spiritual day, and the Cause was taught in a new Canadian city. Jenabe was full of buoyancy and hopefulness, looking always toward the western countries and cities. He sends his Bahá’í greetings to all.

Ahmad. [Page 8]

Royal Connaught, Hamilton, October 31, 1920. Canada.

The day passed very quickly and Janabe Fazel was most happy because he was busy delivering the message of life to hundreds of souls. At eleven o'clock he went again to Royal Templer Hall. The meeting was under the auspices of the Theosophical Society and the large hall was filled with eager listeners. Mr. Vail spoke first paving the way for Jenabe. It was a glorious talk he delivered on "Evidences of life after Death." Both last night and this morning lectures were reported by Miss M. Carr and most of them will appear in Hamilton Chronicle which has already published several articles. After the lecture written questions were submitted and answered. For lunch and supper he was again the guest of Mrs. Laidlaw. In the afternoon, Miss N. Gates took Jenabe for a drive through the city. It has beautiful homes, shaded avenues and its population is 110,000. And invalid, Mrs. Hall was visited in a hospital and Jenabe comforted her and prayed for her recovery. At 7 o'clock, Mr. and Mrs. Whitney who are the directors of the First Spiritualist Church called and took Jenabe and Mr. Vail to their meeting. About 300 persons were present and both addressed the audience with great power and effect. At 8:30 p.m., another meeting was held in Mrs. Laidlaw's home and those who came asked questions and Jenabe filled them with light and peace. Then an interview was held with Mr. W. Molliss, Managing Editor of Hamilton Spectator. Supper was then served and every body was made happy. The many brilliant remarks of Jenabe in his private and public talks are worthy of quotation but there is no space. His Knowledge is boundless.

Ahmad.

The Tecumseh Hotel, London, Canada. November 1, 1920.

The journey from Hamilton to London was pleasant and eventful, for two beautiful, intelligent women who had attended the meetings in the former city had an opportunity to learn more about the Cause from Mr. A. Vail. Miss Gates took us to the station and was the embodiment of all kindness. At the London station Mr. Westland and Mr. Wright, members of Theosophical Society welcomed Jenabe Fazel and he and his party took rooms in the Tecumseh Hotel. Reporters arrived and had interviews. The Advertiser and the Free Press has announced the meeting which was going to held in the Hall of Theosophical Society. Mr. and Mrs. Wright called and had a beautiful time with Jenabe. Mr. Wright is the cousin of Miss Harriet Magee, the "beloved mother of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá" and the party will visit her tomb. At 8 o'clock Jenabe was taken to the Hall. More than 200 souls were present. Kr. Wright made a short introduction; Mr. Vail spoke eloquently and effectually, and Jenabe delivered a vivid and graphic address on the "New Vision of Immortality". One said: "This was the best Theosophical lecture I have ever listened to." Every one was delighted. Two years ago, "Mother Beecher" had been here for a week, holding meetings in different homes and so there are quite a number who are interested. The response in the meeting was great and spontaneous. It was the greatest demonstration that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá is with Jenabe at all times. The Cause was proclaimed in no uncertain tone and the hearts were filled with happiness. Now there can be a regular assembly in this city with its 65,000 inhabitants and wide-awake citizens.

Ahmad.

Tecumseh Hotel, London, Canada. November 3, 1920.

Many never-to-be-forgotten experiences were added to the book of the experiences of Jenabe Fazel's party. At 1 o'clock r. Walter Wright, the cousin of the blessed Harriet Magee called and took the party to her tomb. It was indeed a wonderful privilege to stand silently before the tomb of the "Mother of [Page 9] ‘Abdu’l-Bahá" and then Jenabe chanted in his silver tone a prayer in Arabic. One could hear the voices of the Angels breaking through the atmosphere. Right after the departure of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá from America the Diary letters for many months were written to her and her pure heart became a channel for their distribution amongst the friends.. Having visited her tomb, Mr. Wright gave the party a splendid drive through miles of the city Park and showed them the Tubercular hospital, spreading over acres of well-kept ground. At 12 o'clock Jenabe Fazel and the rest were the guests of Mrs. Walter Wright, 3 Picton Apt. A very delightful luncheon was served after which Mrs. Albert J. Rawell, a brilliant newspaper woman who is personally attracted to the Cause called and had a long interview with Jenabe. She is going to write a number of articles for several newspapers in different parts of Canada and thus the Cause will be heard by thousands.

At 3 o'clock there was a fine meeting in Mrs. W. D. I. Wright's, the sister of Mrs. Magee. Many people attended it and Jenabe after giving an elevating talk, they asked numerous questions. Refreshments were served and the joy of the Kingdom became manifest through that intimate association of souls with souls. Regular meetings will be held in this city in the Apt. of Mrs. Walter Wright, 3 Picton Apt. Many people are actually attracted. The Teaching Committee must see to it that after a little while the centers visited by Jenabe Fazel are followed up and the seeds sown irrigated. Mr. Albert Vail will be a good one, because he has been a member of the present party. Even now on his return he will stop one night in London.

Ahmad. Hotel Waverly, Toronto, Canada. November 4, 1920.

On returning to Toronto, Jenabe Fazel found himself quite busy with teaching. In the morning the reporter of the "Globe" called and received a long interview full of spiritual instruction. He became alive to the importance of this day and the responsibility of the writers. In the afternoon, Dr. Watson arrived and for three hours the deeper mysteries of the "Twentieth Plane" and life hereafter was discussed. Dr. Watson is not only a physician and thinker but a poet and spiritual scholar. He will be a most prominent worker in the borad field of the Bahá’í Movement. He desires to start a class for the study of the Principles and their promulgation in Canada. In the evening a large meeting was held in Dr. Watson's home. He had invited another set of broad-minded men and women to listen to the message of Jenabe Fazel. He spoke at first on the "Universal Consciousness of Christ" and then those who belonged to the "Inner Circle" of the "Twentieth Plane" asked questions till 12 o'clock. It was one of those intimate heart to heart meetings, reminding one of the similar meetings in Persia - where the believers are full of love, eagerness and spiritual beauty. There is no doubt that the Cause is already enthroned in the hearts of these sincere seekers of Truth. Mr. Benjamin, who goes into trance life and brings the innumerable messages to the world as reported in the "Twentieth Plane" was present and deeply moved by the universal call to higher and still higher Realms of Consciousness as sounded by Jenabe Fazel. The meeting came to an end with soothing music. How beautiful is the world of love!

Ahmad. Hotel Waverly, Toronto, Canada. November 5, 1920.

This morning several people called to be filled with the spirit of love and service manifested by Jenabe Fazel. His desire to serve and elevate the minds of men knows no bounds. To one he said: "One must give great attention to small details and be thorough in his work. For trifles accumulated make perfection and perfection is no trifle." To another one he said: "In the East [Page 10] women were slaves to men, but in this cry for equality, let them beware lest they may become slaves to themselves." Again: "Self abnegation is the road to self-illumination. Humility is the pathway to the palace of divine glory -- Die before you die." Again: "Suffering and pain are the twin wings of the bird of spirit soaring toward the azure height of idealism. Pain is not a stumbling block but a stepping-stone." Then: "The teachings of the prophets are like unto the live, burning coal under several strata of dead ashes. Bahá’u’lláh has come to remove these heaps of ashes and let the fire appear with all its spiritual glow and beauty."

In the afternoon, Dr. Watson and Miss Lawrence called and took Jenabe through the public Library and many of the University Buildings. He was taken through stacks of books on all subjects of Theology and Metaphysics. "Dead thoughts, human imaginations, some foolish dissertations, he said as he passed along. In the evening he was the guest of Mr. Louis Benjamin, the great instrument of the spirit. Mr. Benjamin went into trance and brought forth from the realm beyond wonderful treasures of Truth. For each soul in the room he had messages of encouragement and joy. It was a great meeting, full of deep significance. Mr. Benjamin foretold of the coming of the Great Savior, the world Savior from Palestine in 18 months or two years and he wished every one to prepare himself for his reception. Ahmad

Guelf, Canada, November 6, 1920

A city of about 20,000 inhabitants and fifty-five miles from Toronto.

Jenabe Fazel was invited by Miss Edith Kilg, 49 McTague Street, of Guelf, the President of the Canadian Women's Club to speak before the members on "The Awakening of Women in the Orient." It was about 12:30 when Jenabe took the train and reached Guelf at 2:50 p.m. Mrs. Helen J. Crowe, the Secretary, was at the station with the car and took the Persian scholar to her lovely home to rest and have a cup of tea. At 4 o'clock they all went to the Hall in the Public Library. More than 200 members and guests were present. Jenabe spoke for one hour, giving a comprehensive outline of the past, present and future status of women in the East. The audience was transformed through the power of the spirit. They felt the thrill and intoxication of the coming age, they arose to the height of human and divine perfection in the age of Bahá’u’lláh; they realized that they were living at the scintillating Dawn of a new age and they longed to rest under the wide-spreading tree of spiritual wisdom and understanding. At the end of the talk they all came near the platform with dancing eyes and eager hearts to shake hands and to express their glowing joy.

Jenabe said to one: "Seek Light, through light everything is revealed and unveiled, with light comes vision and with vision comes love. Love implies service. Without the warm rays of the Sun of Service, love pines away in desuetude. With light, love and service comes another power - Energy. These are the four columns upon which the palace of spiritual life is build." To another he said: "God has deposited in man, a neutral power, it is neither good nor bad, neither moral nor immoral. It is the use or abuse of this power that brings glory or condemnation upon man. The selfless self and the selfish self are the expressions of the same neutral power, turned toward good or evil ways. The manifestations of God come to teach us how to use this power for progress, construction, peace and amity. More and more we are coming to learn how to use properly this wonderful Energy. Hence Education is the key to open all the locked doors." Ahmad. [Page 11]

November 7, 1920

A most wonderful and remarkable day in the history of the Bahá’í Cause in Toronto. At last the great triumph is achieved and the doors of the Kingdom are open before the faces of the people. At 3 p.m., the York Theatre was filled with more than 700 men and women, Dr. Watson was the Presiding Officer, Mr. Vail gave a beautiful introductory talk and then Jenabe Fazel spoke on the new vision of Immortality with a force and power that was divine and inspiring. There were before him 700 eager ears listening to his message of light and truth. When he finished Louis Benjamin gave a trance talk in which he dramatically stated that the world Savior is living, that he is in Asia, that we must turn all our faces to him and his name is no other than ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. A spirit from the Thousand Plane was delivering to the world the above message. The "blue bens" were at the door and in a few minutes they were all finished. At 8 o'clock another meeting under the auspices of the Theosophical Society was opened in Forester Euilding. There were fully 600 present; the galleries above were filled. The lecture was widely advertised and the subject "The Fundamental unity of all Religions" was most learnedly discussed by Jenabe Fazel. From metaphysical, historical and moral standpoints he clearly proved that all the religions aimed at one thing. It was an inspiring scene. Then innumerable questions were written and answered by the Teacher with the utmost ease and fluency. After this wonderful meeting he was taken to the house of Mr. Benjamin to meet again the members of the Inner Circle of 20th Plane and many important questions were asked about the holding of regular Bahá’í meetings in Toronto. For dinner Jenabe and his party were the guests of Dr. Watson and it was a spiritual occasion. Tomorrow Jenabe leaves for Cincinnati.

Ahmad.

November 8, 1920

Once more Jenabe Fazel is on the United States soil and his work in this country will start with great zeal and enthusiasm. He left Toronto this morning for Detroit and when about 4 p.m., he landed in the station, Dr. Stiles, with his sweet laughing face, welcomed him with open arms. He was taken to Fort Shenley Hotel to rest for the few hours he was going to stay in Detroit. Later on, 7 men who were Bahá’ís and interested in the Movement were brought in by Doctor and each one had many questions to ask. To one Jenabe said: "All things are in man and not outside of him. Suppose you enter this and it is dark. You cannot see the objects contained therein. Turn the light on and everything becomes visible to your sight. Likewise all human and divine knowledge is enveloped in the brain and heart of man. The power of the Holy Spirit acts like the light, suffering the hidden knowledges to be revealed. The teachers of the Cause have not as much to teach as to reveal the inner possibilities of man to himself. This they can do by turning the light of the Teachings of Bahá’u’lláh toward the dark chambers of the minds and the spirits." At 7 o'clock they all went to the Dining room and Jenabe was entertained with true noble hospitality. Coming back to his room the spiritual conversation flowed on and on through the consciousness of those who were present. They were ennobled and encouraged and at 10:20 p.m., Dr. Stiles and others, friends, who became so dear during these few hours took Jenabe to the station and now about midnight the train is speeding along toward Cincinnati. Jenabe says: "The Cause of Bahá’u’lláh has indeed raised its clarion Call in the Hall of memory and it is the greatest privilege of any human being to promote this divine civilization. The Banner of Truth is unfurled and the dews of light are impearled in the meadows of the hearts."

Ahmad.

(Published and circulated by The Teaching Committee of Nineteen for the United States and Canada. Washington, D. C., November 15, 1920.)