National Teaching Committee Bulletins/1920/October/Text

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"Religion is a brilliant light and a strong fortress for the protection and comfort of the people of the world. If the lamp of religion remains veiled, chaos will take place, the luminary of justice and of equity and the sun of rest and security, will be deprived of light. Any one who knows will ever bsar witness."

Baha'o'llah.

"Concentrate, therefore, at present your whole effort in spreading the Message. It is time for the diffusion of fragrances and the promulgation of divine teachings and for nothing more. The world of humanity is athirst and these Divine Teachings are pure and limpid water. LExert effort in teaching, and if blessed Souls undertake to travel through all the States of America, complete and thorough confirmations from the Kingdom of ABHA shall be witnessed by them, so much so that they shall be bewildered. Verily, this is an exceedingly momentous question."

aera ene Abdul Baha. BULLETIN NO, 5 Issued by the Teaching Committee Appointed by the Delegates to the Convention.

During the past year, the following Message was sent by Abdul Baha to His followers, the children in His great spiritual family, through His Mercy:

"Tell My followers that I am always asking heavenly help for them, and that my deepest desire is that they shall be the source of enlightenment of humanity and the unity of all races of mankind. The point of distinction among men, let them remember, is their deeds. ... "

Also this Message:

"Ye are inviting me to America. I am likewise longing to gaze at those illumined faces and converse and associate with those real friends. But the magnetic power which shall draw me to those Shores is the union and harmony of the friends, their behavior and conduct in accordance With the Teachings of GOD and the firmness of all in the Covenant and Testament."

Perhaps hundreds of similar Messages have likewise come from the same Source of Knowledge during the past twenty years or mors, and many pointing out to us tenderly and lovingly the path to be travelled in order to attain unto Ideal Unity. These Creative Utterances -- like unto seeds -- have been germinating in the 30il of our human hearts, and there is now coming forth from this prepared soil the signs of a marvellous UNITY -- a Unity such as the world knows not. We are sure that the members of the family will be happy to hear that letters from all over this country and Canada the past month nave brought the same message about a Unity actually accomplished. There has been born through the Power of the Covenant, a love divine, which brings real healing; and we hear from all sides about better understandings; about the attention and stirring of the friends to.and for this longing for Unity; and almost like one soul a majority surely have

realized that -- .

"The most pressing need today is harmony and union among the friends of

GOD." These are Abdul Baha's Words, and He further adds: "Strive your utmost for

this. Not until. this intimate unity is realized can universal harmony be estab ‘lished. Exert ye a great deal of effort on this momentous question."

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We would not take space in the Bulletin to mention the messages about unity which have come to us, only such messages coming from so many Sections seems heavenly and encouraging news. One of our brothers who has been in the Presence of Abdul Baha several times, told us that "In practically évery conversation which we had with Abdul Baha He gave us a lesson upon consultation and working together in unity, sometimes told in one way and sometimes told in another."

This, then, seems to be the news item of the month gathered from the letters of the friends. Even the same expression is used: "A new Unity is being born." To what shall we attribute this? Some friend suggests the answer: Namely: We could never have a unity until there was harmony and peace in each individual heart, for one cannot give what they do not possess. The unity that is coming out now into the light of day is the unity born from hearts set aglow with the determination to be and to do. Another friend says: "We are learning to swim in the fathomless sea of His Teachings" -- and this of course leads to a conscious and full realization that "The first condition is firmness in the Covenant of God." Then, too, the friends like unto one soul are arising to prepare the way for Jenabe Fazel, and this united effort is bearing fruit.

"In every City where the friends are united, spirituality and illumina tion is manifest and apparent with infinite power and strength." Abdul Baha.

We are happy to report that His Excellency, Jenabe Fazel, has resumed his heavenly tour after a rest in New York City. This is the most welcome news to the ever increasing mumber of affectionate friends who are proving as Abdul Baha instructed "receptive to his advices and exhortations", and also to the host of believers and unbelievers who are aWaiting the arrival of this sacred personage in the various Centers throughout the country.

The activities started anew when Mirza Fazel spoke on Thursday evening, September 30th for "The Rainbow Circle" in Harlem, and on Friday night in the New Bahai Library on Madison Avenue, New York City.

On Sunday, October 3rd, Mirza Fazel, accompanied by Mirza Ahmad, as interpreter, and Mr. Hanko of Newark, left New York for Trenton, N. J., where our beloved teacher spoke in the Unitarian Church. Mr. Hanko had prepared the way for this service as he had previously attended the church and conveyed the Message to the minister, Rev. Robt. L. M. Holt, -- thus opening the door for further service.

Mirza Fazel spoke to an attentive and interested audience, telling them of the Glorious Manifestation of this New Day of God and the Oneness of Religion and the Oneness of Humanity. iir. Hanko and Mr. J. Newell Ayres have sent interesting reports of the service, and among other things tell us that Jenabe Fazel made a great sacrifice in going to Trenton as he was sick with a fever at the time. Mr. Hanko said in his réport: "When I was told that Jenabe Fazel had a fever, I recalled the Yords of the Master: "No matter whether you are well or ill.' The essential element -- that of sacrifice -- seems ever present in all of Jenabe Fazel's services, hence it is not to be wondered at that wherever he goes the people’ awaken to the greatness of the Most Great and Glorious Revelation.” Mr. and Mrs. Ayres entertained the party at dinner, including the Rev. Mr. Holt. Mr. Ayres writes: "The dinner at our home will never be forgotten. Spiritual food was freely given by Mirza Fazel for the uplift of all and words fail to express the light and joy that beamed from his face."

The Trenton Evening Times of Octoder 7th, comments favorably on this visit. And the Trenton Sunday Times-Advertiser of October 10th follows with a picture of the Temple and a good article.

In the afternoon the party returned to New York, remaining there fora day or two. Mr. Mills and Mr. Ledoux were about the last friends to call on him before he left New York, and to them he spoke of the beauty of service and the heralding of the Kingdom. On Tuesday morning, October 5th, Jenabe Fazel, accom

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panied by Mirza Ahmad Sohrab and A. K. Manoucher as interpreters, left New York City, starting onthe long itinerary mapped out for this blessed pilgrimage. Ahmad has promised to keep us informed as the work progresses, so that through the Bulletin all the friends may share the joy of this most wonderful seed Sowing. The first stop was made at Johnstown, N. Y., where Mr. G. V. Williams, a new active Bahai welcomed the party and took them to the home of Mrs. LaGrange. Ahmad writes: "Miss Ella Quant and the hostess, both Bahais of the first period, were delighted to meet Jenabe Fazel. "We are never tired" he beamed at them, “because We are associating with the friends of God." The question of Spiritualism was brought forward. "We do not oppose any one" he said. "We do not antagonize any one. We encourage all to study the Bahai Revelation in the Light of Truth and Revelation. Be lenient to the Spiritualists. The Bahai Cause is love and nothing else. If you throw away all the shells, at the core you will find the kernel -- love." After dinner with the friends, the party left for Gloversville where they stayed for three days at the Kinsborough Hotel. During the afternoon of the next day Mirza Fazel gave a lecture on "Modern Education in Persia" before an interested audience in the hall of the High School. Ahmad Writes: "His description of the changes which have come over the life of the people through the promotion of the Bahai Teachings, was dramatic. The talk open ed the eyes of many listeners. Afterwards the Editor of the Morning Herald called and received an interview. In the evening another lecture was delivered in the Jewish Community Center. The subject was on the growth of the Conception of God throughout all ages and cycles; that God is unchangeable and invariable but our Ideal of Him becomes more and more perfect. He has been perfect from the beginning of creation." The next day, October 7th, the party were the guests at luncheon of the Chamber of Commerce. Ahmad writes: "A Minister of the church was at our table, and so Mirza Fazel spoke with himadout the Cause. He had not heard of the Bahai Revelation and was greatly impressed. In the evening we were the guests at dinner of Mrs. Gustin, an old Bahai of twenty years standing. Jenabe Fazel encouraged the friends to hold regular public meetings, deliver talks and Study the Revelation. It is indeed thrilling to observe the light of the love of Abdul Baha shining in the faces of these friends. The lecture of the evening was in the Court House of Johnstown, and an eager audience welcomed Jenabe Fazel. Mr. Williams made a beautiful introduction, and our teacher spoke on the two types of civilization. The Bahai Cause was introduced to Johnstown more than twenty years ago through the effort of Mr. and Mrs. Brittingham."

The following night, October 8th a meeting in the Universalist Church Was well attended. The Universalist minister was most Sympathetic to the Cause. Ahmad writes that this minister 'was praising the greatness of the Bahai Movement to a friend of his." 'What will become of your church if the Bahai religion becomes universal?' the Minister was asked by his friend. "Well" he replied "it will become part of that perfect whole." |

Through confirmations successively received the work in the vicinity Was greatly blessed; the friends were strengthened and Jenabe Fazel poured his great love upon all.

The Morning Herald of Gloversville and Johnstown of September 29th, October 5th, and October 7th, and the Leader-Repubdlican of October 7th, both newspapers having a large circulation in the vicinity, gave wide publicity to the historic event of Mirza Fazel's visit and published good articles.

Mr. Williams has written such a very appealing and precious account of this visit, that we are going to publish it in full soon.

On Saturday, October 9th, Jenabe Fazel and Ahmad were enroute to Ithaca, N. Y., and arrived there about 8 p.m. rs. Crandall and Miss Townley have sent uS interesting reports of the service there, and we quote from the letters:

"Mrs, House and Miss Townley met them at the Station and took them to

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the Unitarian church where Mirza Fazel lectured, Mr. Ward introducing the speaker. Many stayed after the lecturé for a personal interview and to ask questions. Later they went to the home of Dr. and Mrs. House where they were guests. At 12 noon the next day, Mr. Ward came, and we took Mirza Fazel to call on Prof. Schmidt of Cornell University, who is a wonderful scholar in his line -- comparative religions. Later Mirza Fazel, Ahmad and Mr. Ward were invited to dinner at the Cosmopolitan Club, and in the afternoon Mirza Fazel lectured on “Education” before the Club to an interested audience, mostly students of Cornell. Ahmad tells us students were there from China, India, South America, Russia, Turkey, Greece, etc. They were intensely interested and eager to get Bahai literature. From one to 5:30 p.m., it was a com tinual intellectual feast. They took his photo with the students. A Chinese, a Turkish and an English student became the most attracted. When Jenabe Fazel left them, he said: 'This was a meeting full of results.'

After supper with Dr. and Mrs. House, we left Ithaca and were soon enroute to St. John, HN. B.*

The Cornell Daily Sun published two good articles; and the Ithaca Journal-News also published an article of interest.

Our revered teacher was travelling all day Monday the llth, and in the course of conversation, Ahmad tells us, he said:

~ “Baha'o'llah has laid the foundation of the palace of the Cause under the

ground, and He has.requested the Bahais to build on it. It depends upon our effort and exertion what kind of edifice we shall build on it. ‘Some may build a shack; others may construct a small hut; others may raise a house; while a few may build a mansion of the utmost beauty and perfection. From amongst mankind, let us hope that the friends of God will be those people who will devote their time to the construction of the Universale Palace of Love and Friendship, so that they may gain the good pleasure of the Lord. There are some who are Bahais intellectually; a second class are Bahais through the emotions of the heart. Both are defective. But when in a soul the powers of the mind are correlated with the susceptibilities of the heart -- working together harmoniously for the realization of constructive and practical plans -- then that soul is a real Bahai; he will become the collective center of all the beneficient forces, he will serve his fellowmen, he will be humble and submissive, and will shine like unto a star from the horizon of Reality."

On Tuesday morning, the l2th of October, Jenabe Fazel and Ahmad arrived at St. John, N. B. Mr. Wm. H. Randall of Boston, and Miss Martha Root had preceded them. Through the confirmations of Abdul Baha, they were able to prepare the way for the coming of the blessed server to the souls of men who is so faithfully and effectively fulfilling the mission entrusted to him, and were at the station to meet them on their arrival. They were conducted to the Hotel Royal, and later lunched at the restaurant of one of the friends, Miss Culver. Ahmad's account of what followed is so interesting, we will quote from it: ’

"While we were there the American Consul, Col. Culver, came in to welcome Jenabe Fazel. He had sent telegrams to the English and American Immigration Officers at the border to show Jenabe Fazel every courtesy, which was done. They did not even ask for a passport, saying they had been notified by the American Consul about his being on that train. ... In the evening a meeting was held in Art Club Hall and the place was filled. Col. Culver introduced the speaker, and referred to the union of the East and the West. Mr. Randall gave a splendid talk, and then Jenabe Fazel arose from his seat and for nearly one hour delivered an inspiring lecture on the Divine Religion, the Grandeur of Christ in the Bahai Dispensation, the perfection of mankind in this luminous age, the unveiling of the mysteries of holiness, the realization of the dreams of the sages, and the unfurling of the Flag of Truth. Every one was attracted, and there was a wonderful interest manifest."

The next day, Wednesday, the 13th, our blessed teacher was busy calling

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on a Sick sister, Mrs. Nixon, who was greatly cheered and uplifted by his presence and Spiritual discourse. Then in the afternoon a mumber of interested souls called on him and asked for light on the subject of Immortality. Anmad writes:

"His explanations Were so satisfactory that they asked many other questions In the evening the Canadian Club, by special invitation, had a dinner at which Jenabe Fazel and Mr. Randall were the guests of honor. About half a dozen Clergymen Were present. There were also judges, financiers, bankers and merchants. The talk of Mr. Randall was on "Universal Peace" and Jenabe Fazel gave a wonderful lecture on the mighty transformation wrought in Persia through the Teachings of Baha'o'llah. The audience was transported to the seventh heaven of joy. The President of the Club offered a vote of thanks and the diners cried out ‘yea, yea.' I wish every Bahai was present to listen to the wise words of our teacher. It was a glorious spiritual success."

The friends in St. John are greatly encouraged, and are going to start regular meetings and study classes. The entire service there was a great Spiritual triumph, and, as Mr, Randall stated in a letter, "thousands of people listened to the Message with interest". There can be no doubt whatever that the events which transpired demonstrate the successive confirmations of the Center of the Covenant.

The St. John Globe and the Evening Times and Star announced the arrival of Jenabe Fazel in very good articles; the St. John Globe had an editorial on "The Persian Philosopher" and welcoming him to the City; and the Telegraph and Standard reported the speeches at the Canadian Club verbatim. All of the articles expressed the same thought, namely: that this Persian philosopher and Ideal Sage had a really marvellous Message to present, that it was given comprehensively and received with the utmost attention and a desire to search for the Truth. So the newspaper fraternity of St. John seemed wonderfully alive to the stirring and important event which a visit from Jenabe Fazel means to any City.

Our revered teacher and party left St.-John the 14th of October, and arrived in Montreal the 15th. An account of the glorious visit in this City will be forthcoming soon.

As we "travel the shining pathway" of service with Mirza Fazel sharing in the joy of the service through the glorious news continually reaching us, We are ever recalling at the same time Addul Baha's Words in the "Divine Plan" about "spiritual geniuses" and how much these Words are fulfilled in the services contributed by this holy teacher. We yuote these Words of Abdul Baha:

"In a similar manner in the Bahai Cause, there must appear extraordinary Spiritual geniuses, wonders of the Kingdom of God, souls who in knowledge, sciences, Sociability, tenderness, loving kindness, universality, joyfulness, may be considered unique and peerless." (Divine Plan, page 35).

A Tablet from Abdul Baha to Mariam Haney just received contains the following: "His honor, Fazel, is verily, pure gold and a Shining and brilliant lamp."

Among the joyous events of the past month was the arrival in New York of Dr. Zia Bagdadi, accompanied by his wife, Zeenat and daughter, Parvene, also the Sister of Mrs. Bagdadi; all directly from the Presence of the Master and after a Stay in the Holy Land of about nine months. They returned to Chicago to live (their former home) after a brief visit with the friends in New York and Washington. There Was very great rejoicing over their return, and the reunions were especially dear and precious, for these loving souls are well known personally to many of the friends.

A circular letter from Mr. Roy Wilhelm has been received telling us of the New Permission brought by Dr. Zia; also telling of his Instructions regarding the Temple work. Since all the Assemblies probably likewise received a copy and are thus informed, we will not repeat the same here. However, we might add that we asked Dr. Bagdadi when he was in Washington if he had instructions to emphasize the Temple to the exclusion of all else, and he said:

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"No, the ifaster told me to return to Chicago and live as formerly; to teach and give the Message and speak of the great Principles of the Cause; and also to emphasize the importance of the Temple."

That Dr. Zia is arising with all power to fulfill these Instructions was evidenced while he was in Washington. We all felt the visit of these heavenly Souls was naught but pure Bounty, and we profited then and contime to profit by the rich treasures in the way of knowledge which they were able to impart to us, and with that rare Spiritual Fragrance which true Bahais always bring from the Presence of the Center of the Covenant.

The following is quoted from a letter received from Mr. Randall as he has So splendidly referred to both the Temple and Teaching, and his words so exactly express the attitude of all the members of the Teaching Committee who have written on the subject, that we feel we should share the same with the friends:

"I am verv happy to hear beautiful and spiritual reports about Zia, and I have always known he was truly a great soul and inwardly a living flame, and I hope he will use this great gift to unify the friends and further strengthen the Light of the Covenant in our midst.

"Of course this Temple is the most important thing, and of course Teaching is. the most important thing; and our Beloved has said exactly this of both of then, because of the fact that the purpose of the Temple is a great teacher to attract many hearts and minds to the Light of the Kingdom: therefore they are inseparable. And the Temple cannot be built without the Teaching Program and the fruit of the TqRShaNe Program a be the Temple, physically, likewise in the hearts of the people."

Mrs. Elizabeth Nourse of Washington, likewise expressed a wonderful thought regarding the Temple and Teaching Program. In speaking on this subject a few days since, she said: "I believe Abdul Baha's Gift to the Temple this year is Jenabe Fazel." It seems to us this statement is deeply significant, and the more We think of it, the more we can see how VALUABLE to the Temple beyond any possibility of expression, is the holy service being rendered in this country now by His Excellency, Jenabe Fazel.

A portion of a letter from Mrs. Ann Parmerton (who has been in Cincinnati lately preparing the way for the visit of Jenabe Fazel in that City) is herewith submitted:

"The more people we can interest in the Cause the sooner will the Temple be erected, and we surely realize if we are to depend on the number of sacrificing Souls we now have in the Cause, the Temple, according to the Instructions of Abdul Baha could not be built. We need teachers and teachers to proclaim the Glad~ tidings, to explain the marvellous glory of the Mashrakol-Azkar, -- what it will mean to the whole world and what a blessed privilege it is to contribute to a Temple of the greatest Spirituality the world has ever known, for this is a Spiritual Temple for all peoples, while Solomon's Temple was for the Israelites only.

I will take the liberty of quoting from the Words of the Master to Mrs. Parsons:

'The essential thing now IS TEACHING. This gathering of the Convention is for this object. Also to arrange the building of the Mashrakol-Azkar: for choosing people to go about and teach. In Persia there are no Conventions. There is a Spiritual Assembly in each City, and all are engaged in teaching the Cause, Teaching should make one full of joy and happiness. It will attract one. It will bring Spiritual susceptibilities. It gives extreme happiness and joyfulness.

One's own self becomes enriched thereby. Teaching the Cause is the most important work in Which one may be engaged, for in any other work there will not be such results aS in this. Give great importance to work of importance, and this is not to. be brought under special rules. This will bring happiness. It also brings one nearer the Kingdom of ABHA. It will be the cause of joy and happiness, and it refreshes one.'

"Now to me the only way to be Sure of the speedy completion of the Tenple

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is by attracting thousands of new souls, and this can only be done by promlgating the Teachings ...."

A great feeling of happiness, of satisfaction, and a still greater feeling of being nearer the desired Unity comes to us, when we fully realize how inseparable are these two activities, as Mr. Randall stated in another letter: "Both activities are aS inseparably connected as heat and light." The Command to spread the Glad tidings -- to teach -- in reality includes all other Commands. If we are "the waves of one sea", we will surely be as one Soul on this question; and unity of thought among the firm ones inthe Covenant will bring the longed-for results. But disunion might retard the progress so vitally necessary. | "O God! Make all our ideals and thoughts one ideal and one thought and

suffer us to attain to an eternal, unchangeable condition in thy service." we oon eran some (Aodul Baha. )

A letter from Mrs. Hmogene Hoagg, dated at Haifa, Palestine, September 12th to Mariam Haney brings a message about the Master, and it is herewith quoted:

"The beloved Master has been so busy these months! His dear face is so weary and tired night after night! Could we only realize what a ‘burden He is carrying on His shoulders and how He is sacrificing daily and hourly His very life and breath, it Seems as though we would try always to do the things that would make Him happy. So quickly we forget when a personal matter comes for consideration.

SO easily we let the personal interest interfere, and forget the larger interest that concerrs the Cause and the life of the Cause. And all this sacrifice is for every one of us: the tired Face and weary Body of the Master! One evening the Master looked very tired and yet He wovld not sit at the table, but went from place to place to see that all were served. We asked Him if He would rest, but He answered that rest was not for Him; that to serve was His duty; that Baha'o'llah had taught Him to serve the people; that rest was for others, but not for Him. And He would not rest."

We surely have been told how to make Him happy! "As to the health and happiness and Abdul Baha," He has said many times -- "My health and happiness are in this, -- when I ses the friends of GOD engaged in spreading the divine fragrances, arising to serve the Cause of GOD, forgetting every thought save that of teaching; casting into the corner of forgetfulness every matter but that of unity and harmony. Consider in every age what confirmation and assistance were received by those souls who devoted their time to serving the Cause and spreading the Divine Fragrances."

"Will they not arise With superhuman energy and united effort to spread the Cause and impart to me new vigor?" (Abdul Baha)

A report has come to us from our brother, Mr. Charles M. Hanson of Duluth, Minn., containing an account of his trip throvgh some parts of the West.

The first week of service he spent in Bahai work with the friends in Denver. Then Cheyenne,. Wyo., Was visited, and Mr. Hanson found that while there were no confirmed Bahais, that some preparatory work and seed sowing had been done by teachers in the Cause who had visited there some weeks earlier. Billings and Havre, Montana, Williston, Minot, Larimore and Grand Forks, N. Dak., were also visited. There are no resident Bahais in any of these places. Mr. Hanson suggests that if Bahais could go and live in these Cities they would find the field very fertile. He has kindly filed with us a valuable list of names and addresses of persons he interested during his tour through the States mentioned, and we will be most happy to give a copy of the same to any Bahai journeying in that direction. Mr. Hanson has been travelling aS mich as possible, teaching and spreading the Message, and he hopes to go forth into the arena of field service as often as he can in the future. Jus+ now he is staying in his home town, Duluth, and tells us that -- “Bahai activities here are increasing by leaps and bounds, so much so that we are kept busy late into the evening."

[Page 8]= G "To be engaged in diffusing the Fragrances of God (teaching the Truth) in

one hour of time is better than the dominion of the world and all therein. »~ Abdul Baha.

Miss Jessie Revell tells us of two special meetings held in Philadelphia the past month. One of the meetings was arranged by some very wonderful colored people of education and refinement. Among those present at this meeting were doctors, lawyers, poets, teachers and other representing the culture and thinkers of their society. Mr. Gregory was the speaker of the evening. He addressed a very much attracted and interested audience. The love and unity in this meeting was felt by all, and many testified to the superiority of the Bahai Message over anything they had ever heard.

The second special meeting was held in the parlors of the Unitarian church. Mr. Jas. F. Morton of New York spoke very beautifully and convincingly and every one Seemed greatly impressed and attracted. Mrs. Rorer, wife of Dr. Jonathan Rorer ( Professor of mathematics and also principal of a high school in Philadelphia) is on the hospitality committee of the church, and she had provided flowers and refreshments. Miss Revell adds: "The minister of the church, Mrs. Rorer and even the dear janitor (Frank Henson) made us feel a warm welcome in their church."

"Te must entirely focus our thoughts upon the diffusion of the Divine Light and the building of the heavenly foundation." Abdul Baha.

Mr. Howard MacNutt of Brooklyn sends us a copy of "The Shofar", which is the official organ of the congregation of the Brooklyn Synagogue, in which Rabbi Raisin voices editorially his experience at a Bahai Feast in the MacNutt home.

Such good news as this is worthy of being passed on to others. We quote from the paper as follows:

"Not long ago the writer of these lines was invited to address a gathering of men and Women who are adherents of the Bahai Movement, that strange yet beautiful cult which emphasizes the universal in God and regards the different religions into which men are grouped as so many different synonyms for the one central idea of God in man. The personnel of the meeting was in itself highly intereSting, consisting as it did of men and women of various races and cultures: AngloSaxons, Celts, Spaniards and Jews. The writer had expected to find himself along a Strange and peculiar lot; people who, if not exactly inimical to his Jewishness, would at least show themselves as politely sceptical to his religious views and theories. He was prepared for a respectful hearing but not for a cordial reception. Was he not, after all, a Jew? And were not they -- the great majority of them, at any rate -- Gentiles with inborn and ingrained notions about the undesirable Israelite, the step-child of history, the Christ-killer, money-lender, etc. To his great and delightful surprise he soon found himself to be utterly mistaken. The atmosphere into which fate lured him proved to be most idealistic. He was welcomed not aS a stranger but as one of their very own. In the introductory speech made by the chairman, his Judaism was indeed emphasized but only as a special reason for the pleasure of seeing him in their midst. All demarcations and antipathies of race and blood were noticeable by their complete absence, and both Judaism and the Jewish people came in for as noble a tribute as ever escaped from the lips of man for the share they have had in blessing and enriching the religious soil of humanity."

. Mr. MacNutt's letter gives us another item of interest. He says: "The relations and contact between us prove that Abdul Baha spiritually envisioned what has happened and what is yet to happen. This whole block is to be covered by Hebrew religious structures and educational institutions. We have a field of work at once unique and most promising."

——— Se SS

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"What we Wish for the meetings of believers is that they shall be enkindled and enlightened. That the faces of the believers shall be like sunshine, like the open rose, so that every one entering the meeting will recognize the Light Which they possess." Abdul Baha.

Mrs. Louise Waite had a very fine opportunity for service when on October 7th, She addressed the San Diego, California Branch of the League of American Pen Women. It was their annual “hospitality day" and she was allowed the full time for the speakers. Her subject was Universal Peace. She received a perfect ovation at the close of the program. During the social hour which followed, she was busy giving the Bahai Message and Principles. As a result of this service more doors have been opened; several are going to attend Mrs. Waite's weekly group meeting, and the address is to appear in the Club Woman's magazine in the near future.

Another talk of note during the month was before the Theosophical Society of San Diego. Mrs. Waite spoke on the “Universal Temple", and she shared with her audience pictures of the Temple and many press notices.

———_— ss ae

"The friends of God must devote all their time to teaching the Cause, and Spreading the rays of the Sun of Truth. You see how dark the world is; they must illumine it. How materialistic are the people; they must Spiritualize them. How negligent they are: they must make them aware." Abdul Baha.

——— oe ee SS Se =

We are sure all will be happy to hear of the progress of the work in South Africa through the reports from Miss Fanny Knobloch, who left this country during the early Summer.

Going over on the Steamer she was confirmed to give the Message to many souls. There were seven ministers and a goodly number of missionaries on the same Ship, and the passenger list showed that Australians, Hebrews, Italians, French, S. Africans and Americans were associated as fellow travellers.

There was a "Forum" arranged as part of the entertainment, and our own dear Sister Was invited to speak. She held the attention of the audience, including the ship's officers for over an hour. Some sixty-four or more listened to her talk on "My trip to the Orient", and of course she proclaimed the Glorious Message. This resulted in many wanting to know more and requests for literature. Also through the interest awakened and the friendship for some of the passengers She was introduced into some delightful homes in Cape Town upon arrival there. Miss Knobloch was scarcely settled in her hotel, before Bahai work started. Her tem porary abiding place was the Cadarga Hotel, where (unlike other places) the guests are Supposed to mingle socially, and every one present is expected to meet thus informally. At the time of writing she had been privileged to give the Message to many guests at this hotel. "The people here are refined, very spiritual, almost angelic," she writes.

From her letters, We gather that the Message had been given in Cape Town before: at least, in part: not the Message as we know It in its Purity and Beauty; but about seven years ago a Dr. Buchan, then minister of the Presbyterian church, expounded some of the Principles of the Bahai Cause. This attracted the educated and best class of citizens. Dr. Buchan left 5. Africa because of his health, and is living now in the United States. Those interested were without a teacher and without literature and so they became scattered. In a remarkable way Miss Knobloch came in touch with some one who had attended these meetings, and thus began the gathering together of the would~be-nucleus started so long ago. It is not possible to tell you how happy Miss Knobloch has made the people. That she is there seems like a miracle to them; that they are to receive the real Bread of Life, they can scarcely believe. Some of them exclaimed: "Is it true, is it really true? You have come to us to bring the Bahai Message? 0, how rejoiced and

[Page 10]-10 happy you Will wake us!" They are so hungry and so thirsty for knowledge of the Revelation of this New Lay! How much they needed a teavher! No wonder Miss Knobloch felt so strongly the urge to go to 8. Africa. Longing hearts there awaited her, and it is not a miracle, after all, that she found them. The Lord hath guided His own, ;

During this short time of residence there, she has gathered together the old nucleus -- who were attracted to the Cause, but not fully informed. They are having regular meetings for studying the Teachings. At the close of her letter, She adds:

"On Monday we are to read and discuss the first chapter of the Ighan. Wednesday afternoon and evening we will discuss the blessed Cause at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Cook, Thursday evening the Message will be given at the beautiful home of Mr. and Mrs. Jones. Friday evening seven new seekers will meet me at Miss Busby's apartment. Then next Week I speak at the Forum; and still another public address has been arranged for me under the auspices of the Theosophical Society. . .. In the mean time there are parlor talks in various homes, and the time passes all too swiftly.

"How little I am qualified to do this work -- there is so much I should know; yet here I am, even without fear, yes, with confidence in the Guidance of Abdul Baha. Do pray for me."

The confirmations of the Center of the Covenant have surely reached Fanny. That this is just a beginning, and that she will continue to serve effectively, there is no doubt, for she has the Promise of Abdul Baha, and He knows. We quote from her last Tablet received very recently:

“Verily, thy sister has lighted a lamp in Germany. God willing, thou wilt be, to a larger extent, confirmed. Thou wilt kindle a luminous lamp."

Since the special report on Mr. Remey's service in Germany sent out within the last few weeks, we have had an added word from him regarding a visit of nine days in Freiburg -- a very old town of the middle ages full of interest and beauty. It is at the present time a center of progressive thought, the University there being one of the most important in Germany. Mr. Remey's letter contains news of further interesting work and shows how marvellously the Holy Spirit is at work, thus enabling the servers in the Vineyard of the Lord to accomplish.

Miss Alma Knobloch and Mr. Remey attended a lecture by Frau Enma Helling given at the Theosophical Society in Esslingen. In turn Frau Helling attended a Bahai meeting. She was so attracted that before leaving the meeting, she invited Mr. Remey to her home town to give a series of talks on the Bahai Cause, and the invitation was accepted. Mr. Remey was accompanied by a young Bahai brother of Esslingen, Herr Max Bender. Frau Helling was most kind, giving her time and service unsparingly and devotedly to work for the Holy Cause. Mr. Remey writes:

"We have been daily to her little home, which is dedicated to the service of God, and each day and late into the night, she has taken us about the town to call upon her friends, and meet with groups of people she had interested. A large public meeting was arranged for in a hotel. Frau Helling wrote all the advertisements

for the newspapers inviting the public to a conference, and in addition we had large notices on all public bulletin boards, thus much publicity was obtained. In addition, small invitations were circulated with good results. Miss Knobloch joined

the party for this public meeting, and acted as interpreter for me, This public meeting WaS a great success. We thought we might have an audience of 75 to 100,

but were surprised at the big crowd which greeted us, nearly 600 present. A large number of people asked questions, and Miss Knobloch answered them with courtesy and firmness and with such a Spirit that little by little the opponents began expressing themselves favorably until at last but one -- a Catholic priest from America, re

mained opposed. "The following evening We called a gathering of those interested in order

[Page 11]-ll to form a class for the systematic study of the Bahai Cause, About sixty were present, all expressing great sympathy for the Cause, and a desire to know more about the Revelation."

| With what joy we receive news of the spread of the Cause in Germany! There is always a feeling that the Divine Law has been put into practice, and that "with love, gentleness and sweetness" the Cause is being proclaimed and spread. These Spiritual victories impart joy.

"Consider! What a vast field of international service is opened before the faces of the friends! I desire that every one of the believers may become -like an ignited candle in the assemblage of the world of humanity, and conducive to the eternal life of others." Abdul Paha.

The friends in London send greetings to all friends in America and Canada. Miss Elizabeth Herrick kindly gives us a few neWs items of the progress of the Cause, and these indicate that the London activities are many, and that the friends are rendering a most effective service.

A general public meeting is held at Lindsey Hall Wednesdays at 8 p.m. "The meetings Were well attended; the believers doing good work through interesting others personally, and bringing them to the meeting... . Persian friends, when present, always comply graciously with the request to Chant, before the closing prayer, which is followed by a few minutes silence. Miss Rosenberg usually preSides at this meeting. Among the speakers have been Mrs. George, Mrs. Stannard, Mr. Palgrave Simpson, Mirza Darab, Miss Helen Grand, Lady Blomfield, Mr. Eric Hammond, Dr. J. E. Esslemont, Major Tudor—Pole, Mirza Dawud, Mr. S. Safwat and Miss Elizabeth Herrick. We have also been gladdened by visitors on their return to America after pilgrimage to Haifa... . . Mrs. Parsons, with a goodly company; on another occasion Shoghi Rabbani, and again Mr. and Mrs. Harian F. Ober, have all been to this meeting. Dr. Lotfullah Hakim was in London for a While, but has now returned to Haifa.

"Also a course of lectures was given on the History, Sociology, i£thics and Religion of Bahai Cause by Mr. A. Safwat.

"Sunday afternoon meetings at the home of Mrs. George. Public meeting Saturdays at 7 p.m. at Battersea Library. Also weekly meetings Sunday at 4 p.m., at Miss Gamble's, 172 Devonshire Road. . |

"At the public meetings, literature is always on sale, and we have a Bahai Lending Library. Also Miss Yandell has been successful in securing a special shelf for Bahai literature at the "Star of the East" Book Shop in Regent Street.

"All the Feasts and Unity meetings are regularly held. The Unity meetings are always very happy occasions, and are a perpetual reminder of the Fatherly care of Bahato'llah, that the social life of the Bahai community shall be a sacred reality. London believers are exceedingly glad to have vivid account of Bahai work in America and Canada, through the Bulletins, which are most inspiring . « « . and hope great things for the future through the plan of travelling teachers."

"Whenever an illumined gathering of the friends of God is instituted, Abdul Baha, although bodily absent, is yet present in spirit and in soul."

Abdul Baha.

During the past month Mrs. Stuart W. French opened her home in Pasadena, California, for a lecture on "Italy of Yesterday and of Today" by Miss Garibaldi. And in commenting on it, Mrs. French wrote: "This is another wonderful opportunity given me to sow the seed." ?

[Page 12]wo] Qn

A suggestion from this dear sister in the same letter is valuable. She writes: "Don't you think it would be well to say in the Bulletin that the Spanish, Portuguese, Japanese and Italian editions of "Big Ben" are ready, and that the French translation is in the Press? I have just finished my part of the work on the French, and Roy is having the printing done. I did not do the translating, but revised and copied the same. Teachers in the field might like to know that these books are ready."

The Bahai Assembly of Newark, N. J., are holding regular meetings for the general public every Sunday afternoon at 3:30. Mr. Hooper Harris of New York was the speaker last Sunday, his subject being "The League of Peace." Mrs. Ford and Mr. James Morton, Jr., also of New York are on the program for the next two Sundays.

This is a Wonderful service for seed soWing, md a vital interest in the Teachings is always manifest.

The meetings are held at 24 Park Place, Newark.

The friends of the Kenosha, Wisconsin Assembly have recently adopted the plan of sending out at least fifty invitations to strangers a week in the form of free literature. They feel that Sincere seekers after Truth will make an inquiry or investigate further, and that this personal Way may be more effective sometimes than advertising in a local newspaper. We hope to hear from them later as to the result of this effort.

"The teacher is like unto a farmer who sows a seed, the cloud of Mercy pours out its showers and every seed multiplies a hundred fold, gives forth a luxuriant harvest and becomes the cause of heavenly benediction." Abdul Baha.

"Today the stirring Power of the world of existence is the Power of the Covenant which like wmto arteries pulsates in the body of the contingent world and protects: Bahai Unity."

Just aS we are closing the Bulletin for this month, a delayed report has reached us from Ahmad about Jenabe Fazel's last day in St. John. We are so thrilled with its spiritual fragrance, that we feel it should be included in this Number since the report on the work in St. John is published herein. Ahmad Writes:

"“Jenabe Fazel arose today with the spirit of rejoicing, for the meeting of last night at the Canadian Club and the report of the Talks in the Press, ~Set the whole City on fire.

"About ten a.m., accompanied by Mr. Randall, he called on the Collector of Customs, for he was at the Club last night mdwas greatly attracted. The man was delighted with the meeting. ‘We received a fund of spiritual information which we shall not forget’ he said in parting.

"Then they went to the American Consulate, and found Col. Culver in ecstacy and joyousness. In the afternoon a number of advanced souls called at the hotel, and Jenabe Fazel gave them a detailed talk on the history of the Bab, His appearance and the Dawn of the Sun of Reality. Many yuestions Were satisfactorily ansWered, and the people went aWay perfectly delighted; a woman was weeping With joy. At the Station Col. and Miss Culver and Mr. Randall were present to bid Jenabe Fazel farewell.

"Only three days and a great flood of spirituality swept over St. John. The Teacher brought with himself the quickening power. It was a miracle to see the wonderful change coming over that City. While the train is speeding toward Montreal, Jenabe Fazel cries from the depth of his heart 'Ya Baha EL ABHA! Thou

art the Confirmer.'"

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[Page 13]-13 "Today whosoever is a Herald of the Covenant, he becomes triumphant and victorious by the cohorts of the Orb of Regions and is honored and the object of the Glances of Mercifulness." Abdul Baha.

The following stirring instruction from the Master closes the Bulletin for October. Verily in this Utterance is supreme guidance:

"The majority of the people are ready to listen to the divine teachings. Opportunity must not be let slip away for at another occasion such a capacity Will not be found and endeavor and effort shall be in vain. Today is the day of teaching, for all men are athirst and divine teachings are aS the refreshing water. Later on the thirst shall not remain so severe. Hence one should sieze the opportunity so that possibly all races and creeds shall unite and this enmity and rancor may vanish from among men." Abdul Baha.

Respectfully and lovingly submitted,

THE TEACHING COMMITTEE, By Mariam Haney, Sec'y., ’ The Mendota, Washington, D. C.

October 1920.

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