National Teaching Committee Bulletins/1921/April 4/Text

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National Teaching Committee Bulletins April 4, 1921

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"Speak unto people concerning the Signs (or Verses) of thy Lord, and make known unto them His Right Path and His Great Message. O servants! If ye are the people of justice and equity, ye will donfess all that has flowed from the Supreme Pen." Baha'o'1l ah,

", . . . Unless the union of the Bahais is established how can they become the cause of the Oneness of Humanity? First the Bahais should be united with one another in the utmost love and oneness, and then’ they will be able to raise the Banner of the Oneness of Mankind." Abdul Baha.

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BULLETIN No. 11 (continued) Issued by the Teaching Comnittee of Nineteen.

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_ "The plan of the Mashrakol-Azkar was observed. Importance lies in its building. It is My hope that this Foundation may be built." Abdul Baha.

Through the Mercy of GOD and His Divine Confirmations, words have been "translated into the world of action" and a momentous event took place in the vicinity of Chicago recently. Many important events are daily transpiring in the World's history, but this event is by far the most important because of its deep Spiritual significance, and, since it bears upon the training of the souls of men. Could anything be more important than the actual starting of building operations for the Great Temple which is to be "an Expression of the Elevation of the Word of God" on this Yestern Continent?. Let us read in the following letter what Mrs. Corinne True tells us of this event:

"Amidst chanting and supplicating of the Holy Utterances the first shovels full of earth for the glorious Mashrakol-Azkar building, were dug on Naurooz Day, March 21, 1921, just twelve years to the day since the two great events took place Simaltaneously in Palestine and America; namely, the interment of the Holy Remains of the BAB in the Tomb on Mt. Carmel, and the formation of the Bahai Temple Unity

in America. Abdul Baha wrote in a Tablet to Miss Ann Boylan that 'one of the divine

miracles’ was that 'in the very day that the Bab was placed in the Tomb on Mt. Carmel, the Convention of the Bahai delegates was inaugurated in Chicago, and unanimous and effective rules were adopted for the building of the Temple. Consider thou how heavenly Providence has effected such confirmation that these two great matters transpired in-the same day! This is an evidence of the Most Great Assistance and Help." In Dec. 1920 Abdul Baha wrote Mr. Randall 'The sooner ye being its construction, the greater the confirmations attained to.' Pushins against seemingly insurmountable obstacles, the Executive Board of Bahai Temple Unity has attained to the 'Most Great Assistance and Help' -- and the ground has actually been broken and the work is actually going on, constructing the nine caissons which have to go down to the solid rock formation underlying the Mashrakol-Azkar grounds at a deptn of 120 feet. This is known as the Column Foundation, and upon it will rest the weight

of the dome. "We are all so spiritually happy that we are almost incapacitated for any

‘work. "

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Other letters from Chicago friends indicate that there is a continuous Stream of people before the Temple Model which is being exhibited at the Art Iystitute, and inquirers are ever present.

As the work progresses on this Holy Edifice which is to contain "Divine wisdoms, spiritual effects upon the intellects and thoughts" and thus necessarily "a tremendous effect upon civilization" -- the Divine Creative Words in regard to it will likewise be more fully realized by "mind and heart". When the heart feels what the mind comprehends, then we will see the Temple Fund suddenly assume proportions commensurate with the inexpressible greatness of the Temple itself.

“Work steadily. How many seemingly impossible events are coming to pass in these days! Take courage! GOD never forsakes His children who strive and work and pray!" Abdul Baha.

Now are we to have the uplift and refreshment which always seems to be our portion when we associate for a while with the unique and peerless Jenabe Fazel through the medium of the glowing reports of Ahmad. An absolutely true record can never be given us of this work. It is certain, however, that we can witness much of the practical and rich results issuing from the beautiful addresses and instructions of Jenabe Fazel which have ever been characterized with a loving universal spirit; but it will take a long time before all of the results can be known.

The following "Diary Card" reports of Mirza Ahmad Sohrab will take us through the balance of the Southern Califoarnia teaching tour:

1266 S. Glendale Ave., Glendale, California. Feb. 21, 1921.

Back in Los Angeles and the work of lectures! Jenabe Fazel is happy bee cause the Principles of the Movement are spreading in all directions; -- he is happy for the ears are open to listen to the msic of the Kingdom, the eyes are brightened with the light of Truth and the steps are firm in the path of Reality. During the day Jenabe stayed in the home of Mrs. Orall Platt, 667 S. Berendo St., and was delighted with the hospitality of his charming hostess. During the past few years, weekly meetings have been held in her home with great success. Here the Bahais are all united and in the utmost state of spirituality; united and agreed they work daily for the promotion of the Principles of Truth. They have no other aim save service. During the day Jenabe said: "Service is the greatest magnet to attract the Confirmations of the merciful. Service is love in action. The clarion call of this age, distinguishing from all the other ages is service. People are tired with talks and theories, they hail the man of action and welcome the organizing mind. For this reason the Bahais mst encourage spirituality based upon the law of deeds. Deeds are the standards. In former-cycles all the ideals fostered inactivity, monkhood, seclusion, and remoteness from all social participation. This was wrong and a mistaken interpretation of the aims and objects of the spirit of the Prophets of the past. They taught love and happiness, kindness and sympathy”. While Jenabe was in San Diego he enjoyed the climate exceedingly for it Was so much like that of Persia or Mazandaran, the province where Baha'o'llah was born and reared in his childhood. He told several stories about those early years and the sacred mountain, which was reputed to have the tree of life and prosperity, the roots of which were laid in the depth of the soil and the branches rising toward heaven, giving luscious fruits for the healing of all nations. Also there was another legend that the price of war would be imprisoned in the cave of these mountain fastnesses,;, and peace be established on the face of the sarth. All these prophecies indicated that at the end of the ages the Manifestation of God would appear from here, universal reconciliation would be heralded from this region and war Would be no more. We are indeed living in the day of the fulfillment of the prophecies, the age of brotherhood, the cycle of heavenly feeling and the era of in

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Glendale has a fine Bahai Assembly and its members are active and faithful. Although they co-operate with all the Los Angeles and Pasadena friends in every matter pertaining to the Cause of God, yet they have meetings here every Wednesday evening; now in the home of Mrs. Cline; and again in Mrs. Beckett's and other Bahai homes. Mr. and Mrs. Cline and their three children and "Grandpa", Mr. and Mrs. Beckett, Mr. and Mrs. Dible, Miss Dean, Mr. and Mrs, Lamb, Mrs. Householder, Mrs. Mattern, Mrs. Warick, Miss May Aufurth, Mr. and Mrs. Hogue, Mr. and Mrs. West, Mr. and Mrs. Neville, Mrs. J. and Mr. Leland Storch, and a few others. This shows that we have here a Bahai Colony -- all living within a few blocks. Love reigns supreme in the midst of these God-fearing people. Their love for the Cause is most wonderful to behold. They live with the joy of the kingdom in their hearts, the beauty of the flowers in their minds, and the ideals of Truth in their souls. The Bahai Cause in this place is about 20 years old and it has been growing step by step. Quiet and peaceful life, like unto the river, has been flowing on and on. Here there is space for every one, people own their homes and the little garden surrounding their sweet nests. There is no hate, no misunderstanding, no »hypocrisy. In the east, the average man is so harassed with the clash and conflict of life that very few think of owning their homes. Here the air is permeated with this natural longing. Practically all the people are home-builders and home~lovers. Beautiful homes in Spanish style, open on all sides with flowers and orange trees everywhere. Glendale has 20,000 inhabitants, most of whom work in Los Angeles. It is indeed most inspiring that at this very moment the Eastern cities-are in the crip of a mighty blizzard, causing damage of life and property, while Southern California is bathed in sunshine. All the Bahais here are in love with one another and with the climate, and when one is truly in love he not only says it but shows it, and those who are wise in love, love most, and say least.

ic6&&. Glendale Ave., Glendale, Calif. Feb. 23, 1921.

Yesterday Jenabe Fazel spoke twice to the believers of God, once at 3 p.m, in the home of Mrs. R. W. Vollmer in Pasadena. The believers in that vicinity had gathered together to welcome the Persian teacher. Here Jenabe was glad to meet Mrs. J. De Lagnel whose home in Vashington is the Centre of the Bahai activities. Many Bahais were present, and most joyous, A talk was delivered on the general Principles of the Cause and many questions.. answered. In the evening more of the friends were gathered in the large parlors of the home of Mr. and Mrs. Arthur J, Platt and here another beautiful meeting was held. Such spirituality and ecstacy Was manifest in the faces that no pen can describe and no tongue can adequately explain! This morning an educational lecture was given in the Glendale High School before 800 students. The school has 2,000 students but only the higher classes were allowed to attend the talk. The Principal vas more than delighted and the response of the listeners most spontaneous. In the evening a lecture was given on "Universal Service" under the auspices of the "Assistance League" in the New Ambassador Hotel, one of the best hotels in the country just opened. The large parlor was filled with more than 500 fashionable people of the city. The President introduced Jenabe and the wonderful talk was much applauded and fully appreciated, for service was its keynote, and we all realize that this is indeed above all other things the age. of service. After this lecture the speaker was invited to the home of ons of the Syrian brothers, where East and West associated with one another with the utmost pleasure and gladness. Here in the Vest the melting pot is brewing all the time, and no doubt on the Pacific Coast, the elements of the Universal Race are gathering together. The time is coming when this inner working of the law of nature will find its outer expression and bloom like unto a fragrant rose. It is

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easy to be enchanted with the spirit of the Test--~ the call of the West -- for here everything is broad, spacious, hospitable, kind, and the heart responds to this music. |

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1266 S. Glendale, Ave.,, Glendale, Calif. Feb. 24, 1921.

Los Angeles is giving a glorious reception to Jenabe Fazel. The hearts are Warm and the arms are open. In the "Sunland" there are no shadows and no darkness. Every object is diffused with light and light is love and understanding. Here the flowers abound, the birds sing, the glories of heaven and earth are manifest. That is why Jenabe Fazel thinks that the future of the Cause in the West is most promising, great genuises will appear to enlighten the whole world, to uproot the trees of prejudices, and to plant &@ mighty civilization for the healing of all the nations of the earth. At noon Jenabe was the guest of honor at the luncheon of the Ebell Ciub. There were several hundred women present from the best social circle -- all anxious to listen to the message of peace and equality between men ~ and women, coming from the East. Warden Johnston of San Quentin was also the speaker, and he gave a fine picture of "indeterminate:Sentence Law" introduced, in the New Penal Law of the State. San Quentin has 2000 inmates, and as the Warden says, he is not trying to make the life of the prisoners easier but better. After the lecture one of the ladies took Jenabe for a long ride alung the Pacific shore to Santa Monica, etc. At 8 p.m., he spoke on the subject of "The Religion and Reality of Jesus Christ," at "Saints Home Church", 20th and Hoover Streets. It was a colored church of the Revival type, the worshippers shouting and praying aloud for along time. They responded most wonderfully to the Message, and Pastor Driver Was Simply entranced. While Jenabe was speaking, the loud voices of "Amen", "Hallelujah", were vaised from all parts of the Church. It was an interesting Sight and of an educational value. The Pastor asked the people to get the Bahai literature on the table and read and study it carefully; that if they did not un derstand it, they should read again and again and God would reveal to them the Truth. It was a wonderful demonstration of the Spirit of Abdul Baha that attracts all men and women to the Kingdom! Many believers were also present and witnessed

the heavenly confirmation.

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1266 S. Glendale Ave., Glendale, Caliz. Feb. 25, 1921.

Through the invitation of Mrs. R. Wintexburn, the teacher of sociology and history in the Manual Arts High School, Jenabe Fazel gave two lectures on "Bahai system of Education" to two large classes in Room #65. Hundreds of students were present and listened to the talk with rapt attention; notes were taken copiously and the outline of the two talks will appear in the school journal. Dr. A. E. Wilson, Principal, Mr. C. P. Fonda, Vice-Principal, and many teachers were present. The school enrollment is 2600, one of the most beautiful and best equipped educational institutions in the country. Here self-government is one of the modern practiess, -- the student-body governs the various departments successfully. After the two talks, Dr. Wilson sent for the photographer of the school to take the photo of Jenabe, and then took him on a tour around the builcings Mrs. A. E. Platt accompanied the party and Mrs. Winterburn was most happy that the Educational Message of Baha'o'llah was given to these students. She is inculcating the Bahai teachings in the minds of the students at all times. In the evening a lecture on the Bahai Movement was given at Symphony Hall, 232 South Hill St. This meeting was prepared by the dear friends and it was quite successful. Mrs. N. C. Lewis, svivoisy sang most beautifully, and Mr. Rudhyar, pianist, played some of his own compositions. The audience composed of believers and interested ones hearkened to the Messaze with attuned spirit, and were uplifted to the heaven of joy. They asked many questions and literature was distributed at the end of the meeting. The work in Los Angeles was progressive and essential. Jenabe came to know the friends and

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admire their sincerity. His stay at the home of Mr. and Mrs. A. C. Platt as their

guest has been most pleasant, and these dear souls did everything to make him

happy in an environment of peace and quietness. Los Angeles Bahai Assembly is the home of unity and association, forgiveness and helpfulness. The atmosphere is clear and the lives are beautiful. Just as there are many rose-gardens all around us, s0 also the hearts of the friends are the rose-gardens of love and amity. Praise be to God that they are confirmed and assisted, promoting the Principles of the Cause, helping one another, calling on each other at the time of sickness, welcoming all with smiles and answering every questioner with calmness and composure. They are indeed the children of Abdul Baha. Los Angeles, Pasadena, Glendale -- three assemblies -- but one in aim and purpose, one in work and aspiration. This is the attribute of the people of Baha.

1266 S. Glendale Avenue, Glendale, Calif. Feb. 26, 1921.

Jenabe Fazel was today and tonight the guest of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas H. Collins in Pasadena. They have an attractive home surrounded with a beautiful tropical garden. Mr. and Mrs. Stuart W. French live across the street, and their garden is the dream of Arabian night. At three o'clock about 40 guests were in the large reception room and Jenabe Fazel gave them a comprehensive talk on the Bahai Movement. Mrs. J. De Lagnel was also present. She is happy in Southern CaliOrnia: and enjoys her friendship with the believers. Mr. Collins was extremely kind to Jenabe and entertained him with a happy spirit and real hospitality. After the lecture many vital questions were answered and both the lecture and questions and answers reported. Later a walk was taken through the fairy, sunken garden of Mrs. French's home. Mr. and Mrs. French are leaving in a few days for Europe and the Holyland. A lovely supper was served in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Collins, and a spirit of comradship and joyous comminion prevailed amongst those who partook of the delicious dinner, prepared with so much love. At 8 p.m., a lecture was delivered on the "Parliament of Man and the High Court of International Justice" in the Pasadena High School Auditorium. The lecture was announced for several days in local newspapers, through long articles about the Bahai Movement and the coming of the great teacher. The talk was aporeciated and ths plaudits were repeated. Mrs. French and Mrs. Collins had worked for many weeks to have this important gathering, and many thinkers and writers were in the audience. “It is because of your deep Sincerity and the purity of ths hearts that this glorious meeting was so spiritually successful." Jenabe told tnem. In today's Pasadena Star News we read: "Like a Phoenia rising from its ashes, Persia is again stepping into the world stage and claiming the attention of the thinking public by the wonderful changes which are taking place within her far away borders. That the west has great things to offer and many reforms to suggest to her Oriental fellow beings is an acknowledged fact, but it has slipped the minds of many of us that there may be also something good for us which always has had and always will have its origin in the Orient". Jenabe spent the night at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Collins. A fine, airy room was assigned to him and in that sweet home he felt deeply th: spirit of genuine love, kindness and nobleness which is born from the gentle hearts of the sincere souls.

1266 S. Glendale Ave., Glendale, Calif. Feb. 27, 1921.

Jenabe Fazel has come to the end of his spiritual campaign in Los Angeles and vicinity, and he feels amply rewarded for his stay in and around this city of nearly 700,000 inhabitants. Mr. and Mrs. Collins this morning gave him a splendid ride of three hours all around the beautiful sudurbdan hills, towns, orchards; a marvellous combination of mountains and valleys that one seldom sees anywhere else. At 3 p.m., they brought him to the Krotona Institute of Theosophy. Here is the national headquarter of Mrs, Besant's organization -- a lovely building constructed on a hill amidst the verdancy and luxuriance of tropical plants. Here many Theosophits live and teach, and have one of the best equipped libraries. The In

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stitution has classes and lectures all the time. The Building is square, and in the centre there is a fountain with gold fish disporting themselves. Having already lectured before innumerable Theosophical Lodges in the United States and Canada, it was proper-and significant to come to their headquarters and thank the officers in person for the courtesy and hospitality with which Jenabe Fazel was reGeived by them everywhere. The lecture being on the "Seven Valleys", it had attracted the largest crowd ever gathered in the big Hall. Many people were invited to sit on the platform, more than a hundred had to stand all through the lecture and nearly one hundred were actually turned away, because they could not get evena glimpse inside. It was an inspiring and meaningful gathering; the believers were all happy with the splendid results, even the officers of the Institute were surprised and expressed their delight. Mr. and Mrs. Stuart French invited Jenabe Fazel to dinner, and were the embodiment of kindness and goodness. At 8 o'clock the last lecture was given at the African Methodist Episcopal Church at Pasadena. The church was filled with white and colored, the people were receptive to the Message, and the talk on the “Oneness of Mankind" was most impressive. The Minister shook the hand af Jenabe on the platform and thanked him warmly for the message of brotherly love brought from the Orient. Tomorrow morning Mr. and Mrs. Collins will take Jenabe to Santa Paula in their:cgar and there the teacher is scheduled to stay one day and deliver several lectures. May the lights of the Revelation of the Kingdom of love be spread far and wide, and all the people drink from this foun tain. .

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Santa Paula, California. February 28, 1921.

Twenty-four years ago Santa Paula was a village of a few farmers. Today it has 4000 inhabitants, many factories and some of the largest lemon, orange and grape fruit orchards. The lemon trees here bear fruit all the year «round and there are 10 to 12 pickings in 12 months. Here Mrs. Carpenter and Mrs. E, Crane and their families are holding the fort most nobly, having Bahai meetings with great regularity. They are sincere and zealous and have been working for the Cause, lo! these many years. Mrs. Carpenter had arranged a fine luncheon in her home, and invited a large number of ministers and the important members of the com munity. They all came and listened to the talk of Jenabe Fazel and were more than satisfied with the lucid answers he gave to their questions. In the afternoon a second lecture was given to the women of the Universalist Church and in the evening the third talk was delivered in the High School auditorium before an interested audience. Rev. Caroll of the Baptist Church made a very pleasing introduction. The talk was on the "Parliament of Man" and it was well received. After the talk some one asked whether the three founders of the Bahai Movement gained their knowledge from the scholars of the day. Jenabe answered that they never entered any school and their knowledge was innate and from God. They were the pure and clean Mirrors, reflecting the Rays of the Sun of Reality. There has always been an impression among the agnostics that the Manifestations, including Christ, received their knowledge from the philosophers, but this is a gross mistake. They tell us that Christ got his knowledge from the Essenas, -- or He went to Egypt, and India, and learned the things He taught from the priests and the Brahmans. All these historical guesses show the skepticism of men who have never been willing to realize that the knowledge of the Manifestation is not acquired but direct from the source of all Truth. The Prophets are those Superhuman Beings, who are swim ming in the boundless Ocean of Reality. They are not in need of the turbid and muddy waters of the small streams of limited human wisdom. After the lecture, supper was Served at Mr. and Mrs. Carpenter's home, and the night was spent with great joy in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Crane and their charming daughter, Mrs.

Elenore Neville. It was altogether a happy day, for the cup of happiness was overflowing.

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The Samarkand, Santa Barbara, Calif. March l, 1921.

Jenabe Fazel is in the most enchanting hotel; -- all that is loveliest and inéffable in the life of the East is embodied in the Samarkand -- infinitely more wonderful and satisfying than one's fondest dream. It is like a Persian rose, like a melodious symphony; the beauty and exquisite taste displayed in the furnishings and decorations are beyond description. The sunken gardens, the playing fountains, the rooms opening toward the flowering lily ponds, the eastern motels and settings make Samarkand a dream -- a reality from the Arabian Night. The Persian party were thé guests of Mr. Ingerson and appreciated his extreme kindness. The Morning Press and Daily News had articles about the arrival of the Persian Teacher. About noon Jenabe Fazel arrived from Santa Pavla, and Mrs. I. Brittingham, Mrs. Clark and a number of other friends were at the station to welcome him. He was taken to the pleasant hotel and introduced to the manager. At one o'clock dinner was served in the "garden of enchantwent" -- the dining room. It is one of the most beautiful rooms we have ever seen. A special table was prepared, and the followinz friends were present: Mrs. I. Brittingham, Mrs. Flora M, Clark, Maree Helen Hunt, C. S. Taylor, A. A. Berkey, Helen E. Starr, J. L. Hunt, and Mrs. E. W. Reed. It was a delightful luncheon in this "oriental wonderland". At 3 p.m., the first lecture was deliverdd on "Persian Mysticism" in the Moorish Room of the Ambassador Hotel. The lecture was widely announced, and the audience was fairly representative of the best culture of the country. Some were in the Room who had met Abdul Baha, and two ladies had heard Jenabe Fazel in Dublin, N. H., at the summer home of Mrs. Parsons. Everyone enjoyed the talk and realized what true mysticism is, what Spirituality is, -- not in monkhood or seclusion, but in cooperation and reciproeity At:8 p.m., the second talk was given.in the ball room of Samarkand on the "Old and the New Life in Persia". All the guests of the hotel and many people from the city were present. It was a sélect gathering; people from all over the United States and Canada who are spending their winter in this resort, heard the Message-all importaut men and women in their own commnity. After the talk they asked questions about the Bahai Movement and were weli satisfied with the answers. Miss Gesina Koch had done much to arrange these meetings; the believers were very happy to meet our heavenly teacher after months of waiting. At 1:50 a.m., Jenabe is to leave for San Francisco, -- the golden city of the west.

"Through firmness and steadfastness, every moment, some additional . -:..:

spiritual improvement may be attained to, and the Heavenly Realm more unveiled." Abdul Baha.

Miss Zuriel Libby of Los Angeles writes charmingly of the visit of Jenabe Fazel.

"We have just closed -- because we had to and with gruat regrets -- a glorious week with Jenabs Fazel as our speaker and teacher. He surely has shown us the beauty of spiritual attainment. Our mestings were various, before many kinds of people, and the talks were all fitted to the needs of those present. Surely his wisdom in choosing his message each time shows what clear spiritual insight can do. There were two meetings in colored churches that would have delighted your heart. One especially was by far the most truly spiritual of all | the meetings hereabouts, and Jenabe Fazel was thorouzhly happy in giving them his message. The pastor said when the talk was over that he hoped when he got to heaven that he would have a face like the Persian brother. The next night this pastor came to the meeting in Symphony Hall where Jenabe Fazel spoke on "The Bahai Revelation." Afterwards he told us that he had found what he wanted and would always be at peace. How truly wonderful are Jenabe Fazel's meetings, and how the

truth goes from him into thse psople!"

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Mrs. Flora M. Clark of the Santa Parbara, California Assembly has sent us the following report:

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"On March lst, Jenabe Fazel Mazandarani and Mirza Ahmad Sohrah arrived in Santa Barbara on the 11-28 a.m., train. A mumher of the friends were a*t the station to welcome them, especially ovr loved sister,Mrs. I. D. Brittingham, whom all know to be among the pioneer believers of America and whose life has been devoted in servitude to the Cause these many years, alse some recently interested friends, Mrs. Reed, Mrs. Hunt, Mrs. Barr, Mrs. Taylor, Miss Starr, Mrs. Berkey and Flora M, Clark. The last mentioned has served the Cause here for some years. It was a delightful heartfelt meeting of love and union,

"The beautiful new oriental Hotel 'Samarkand' had extended a cordial invitation to our revered visitors to be its guests while in Santa Barbara, and these dear ones were immediately taken there in a taxi where they had a quiet restful hour. Later the friends joined them in a stroll through the wonderful oriental terracess and flower gardens-of the hotel. At 1 o'clock a table Was set for luncheon where the friends gathered together with the beloved Teacher.

"At 3 p.m., Jenabe Fazel was taken to the Ambassador Hotel where a lecture had been arranged throuch the courtesy of one of its cuests, Mrs. Rynard of New York City, and Mrs. Leadbetter hastess of the Ambassador. This talk which was civen in the Moorish room (used for important functions) was upon the subject of "Persian Mysticism", our distinguished Teacher being introduced most beautifully by Mrs. Leadbetter. |

"The following excerpts from this talk are especially interesting:

"tAnother principle of these Mystics was this: 'That the human soul is the collective center of all phenomena. They taught the Spirit of man is a great mine which is unprospected. When the Great Prospector comes he will find in the depth of the mine of the Spirit untold gems of idealism and unselfish principles. In the past this human mine of Spirit has been covered by the rubbish of human imaginations of fanaticism and narrow mindedness, and our duty is to try to clean the surface of the mine from all this rubbish so that the jewels may appear. How can We prospect this inner mine? How can we exhibit and display these spiritual jewels within us set? -- We must travel in the Kingdom of the Soul, there must be inner journeying. '

"Another poet says: ‘Be thou not less than the fruitful tree, for whosoever stones it, it will give back fruits. Just as te scratch or to dig the surface of the mine and the mine gives back the jewels, likewise if they harm thee thou must give back kindness and happinegs.'

"Today as we read their spiritual ideals we are thriiled with such a joy and happiness and they ars so attuned with the modern consciousness that although they lived several hundreds of years ago, it seems as if they had been contemporaneous with us.'

"This lecture lasted for over an hour and was deeply appreciated by all.

"In the evening another address was given at the Hotel ‘Samarkand! on the subject of 'Old and New Life in Persia’. Mrs. Hopkins, one of the directors of the Samarkand, and a prominent Club woman of Santa Barbara gave a general introduction, and an opening Solo was beautifully rendered by Mrs. H. E, Cavanah, one of the gifted vocalists of this city, accompanied by Mr. Cavanah.

"Jenabe Fazel then gave us a brief historical sketch of the 'Samarkand' in Persia, followed by a most illuminating talk regarding the Old and New corditions of that wonderful country, also giving a dramatic sketch of the glorious lite of the Persian poetess Kurrat-ul-Ayn, who first heralded the cause of the emancivation of women in Persia and the liberation and freedom for her sex throughout the world, and who suffered Martyrdom through raising this Clarion Call. Following his address a number of questions were answered and Jenabe Fazel closed the evening by an impressive chant, supplicating for blessing and confirmations. There was a good attendance at each lecture.

"Jenabe Fazel started on the midnight train for San Francisco but lett in Santa Barbara deep fragrances of the Kingdom of EL ABHA."

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The publicity work throughout Southern California was excellent; the newspapers vithout an exception published splendid accounts of the talks, many gave much Space freely, and there was not an adverse criticism. The very intelligent and even masterly articles which have appeared in some of the papers have been particularly gratifying and indicate an interest and an awakening far beyond the hopes of the friends. Among the many newspaper clippings at hand, the following from the Pasadena Star-News of Feb. 28th is a fair sample of the intelligent way in which the lectures have been reported: The article is a full column in length, so we can only quote it in part:

“Only when the world has learned to forget racial prejudice, religious prejudice, national prejudice, can there be a cenuine peace on the globe’, declared Jenabe Fazel, a distinguished Persian university professor, philosopher and exponent of the principles of universal brotherhood, in an address at the High School Auditorium. ...

"The speaker urged that the next generation be taught, in the schools and by parents, the spirit of universal brotherhood. ‘I hope’, he said, ‘that the children of the next generation may live upon the globe as one happy family. That if one asks: What is your country? The answer will be: The Globe. Nationality? Humanity. Religion? The Religion of GOD, brotherly love and sympathy.'

"'Tt is only upon the premise of universal brotherhood that real world | peace may be obtained', said.the Persian philosopher. .. . There Was frequent applause. Ths man of peace spoke in the soft tones of the Orient. He does not speak English, but his sentences were admirably interpreted, with beautiful English diction, by Mirza Ahmad Sohra>. Thus the necessity for an interpreter did not rob the lecture of its charm and interest; the audience was attracted by the personality of Jenabe Fazel and held by the clever interpretation of his companion. . .. The Speaker was introduced by Mr. Clayton R. Taylor, a member of the Board of Education, who said that ‘truth is good wherever we find it, and many truths have come from The Or pet.! 2 he « 3 |

"By the discovefies of science and quick transportation the world has become ‘one small neighborkhood' said Jenabe Fazel. Also he sees hope in the world movement for an international court, a league or association of nations. But, he Said, ‘such an organization mist not become a mere debating ground for new national and racial ambitions. It mist be founded,'he said, 'not on force, but upon the free conscience of humanity. Until ws all can approach it with a universal conscience and international mind it will not succeed. We mist all be free from religious, racial, political and national prejudices. Inasmuch as we do not in the world have these qualifications today, we must set in motion our religious and civic machinery to produce these men arid women who will truly represent the conscience and voice of humanity. The remedy for our prejudices is in the schools, in the hands of teachers and parents, and nowhere else. The child is like a white page, and we should take care not to dye it with the indelible ink of our prejudices.’

"The pages of swiftly appearing newspapers are indeed the mirror of the world. . . . Newspapers are as a mirror which is endowed with hearing, sight and Speech’. they are a wonderful phenomenon and a great matter. .. ." Baha'o'llah,

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active service in Philadelphia and vicinity. Reports indicate that the Message has been very widely given in every part of that City and among all classes, with eratifying results,

Mother Beecher has been serving in Louisville, Ky., during the entire winter, and ever so many letters tell us of her beautiful and effective work,

Mrs. Mary Hanford Ford of New York has made a very successful teaching ‘tour to St. Augustine, Fla. a ee eee

[Page 10]~10 A letter has just reached us.from Miss Fanny Knobloch, dated at Johannesburg, §. Africa, Feb. 28th, and we know the friends will be glad to hear the blessed news of the progress of the Cause in that far away country:

"It is truly most wonderful how the Glad Tidings are being carried to .. countless numbers who are thirsting for the Water of Life. My sincere prayer is . that soon, very soon, some of the real teachers, Mr. Vail, Mr. Remey, Mr. Gregory, or others like them will visit sumy South Africa. They will find the harvest ripe. Mr. Gregory would be worth his weight in gold, for the race question is deplorable here.

"Besides the many whom I meet personally, my work -- the larger part of it -- is accomplished through group meetinzs, nearly always two group meetings a day." Then Miss Knobloch goes on to tell of the attractive group meeting arranged by the artist, Mrs. Beatrice Reid and hov the listeners gave the closest attention while the Message was being proclaimed, and thereafter for another hour asked the most interesting and intelligent questions. A large number of invitations to speak at various other group meetings and Teas were the result of this meeting. Miss Knobloch is being introduced everywhere as "The American Bahai", and every afternoon without exception, for several succeeding weeks, she has been the honor gue&t and speaker at an Afternoon Tea, and in some of the most delightful and palatial homes in S, Africa, Among the guests at one of the Teas were some distinguished people from Lorenzo Marques, the capital and seaport city of Portugese, E. Africa; Mr.May, owner of the tram lines in all of the Portugese territory, and his beautiful wife. They arranged an elaborate tea, and introduced Miss Knobloch to a group of diplomats and distinguished citizens. The Message was given at great length and questions answered fearlessly. Many were deeply interested and greatly attracted to the Cause Invitations have been received by this dear sister to again visit Leper's Island, S.A., and also to return to Cape Town and Rhodesia for prolonged visits. There are many interesting items of week end visits in various homes, of individual instruction given to many and of glorious opportunities in many ways to meet the people of S. Africa and other parts, and always for the purpose of proclaiming the Most Great Message which means LIFE. In closing her letter Miss Knobloch says: "How déeply grateful I am for the blessed privilege of bringing the Glad Tidings of the Bahai Message and the Brotherhood of Man to the attention of these distinguished men and women. I just marvel at the wonderful Power of the Center of the Covenant, for no other Power would or could open these doors. The days and nights are so full, we wish that several days might be added to each week. . . So eager are these delightful English families to hear the Message, that another home (the fourth in Johannes~ burg) has been offered me for the duration of my Stay in this country: think of it all because of my Faith, your Faith, our FAITH!"

"It is said that in South lirdoa; a diamond mine is discovered. Although this mine is most valuable, yet after all it is stone. Perchance, God willing, the mine of humanity may be discovered and the brilliant pearls of the kingdom be found." Abdul Baha, 2 www enna

"The Convention to be held in Washington on May 19th, 20th and 2lst for Amity between the Colored and White Races, is particularly for inguirers; but it would be a great pleasure to the believers in Washington to greet any of the friends who may come to this City at that time.

"Effort is being made to secure liberal speakers rather than those of rad ical thought with the hope of attracting the conservative element in Washington -those people who do not realize conditions."

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A delightful note has come to us from Mre.Anna Cederborg of Boviken, Sweden, in which she tells of the activities of herself and Mr, Rudd in spreading the Message in that country. They will have much good news to share with us soon.

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[Page 11]~ |.

"The Hosts of the Kingdom of ABHA are drawn and filed up in battle-array on the plain of the Supreme Apex and are expecting that a band of volunteers step upon the field of action with the intention of service, so that they may assist that band and make it victorious and triumphant." Abdul Baha.

Respectfully and lovingly submitted,

THE TEACHING COMMITTEE OF NINETEEN By Mariam Haney, Sec'y

April 4, 2921. The Mendota, Washington, D. C.