National Teaching Committee Bulletins/1921/February/Text

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National Teaching Committee Bulletins February, 1921

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"Adore thy Lord so that positive realization may come to thee." | Baha'o'llah.

"The ilies intentions of the beloved of GOD and the merciful projects of the real friends are enforced by the Power of the WORD of GOD; therefore, it is eifective and quick in action and the means of life to the world of humanity."

| Abdul Baha,

BULLETIN No. 9

Issued by the Teaching Committee Appointed by the Delezates to the Convention.

With the many Instructions before us from Abdul Baha regarding the building of the Mashrakol-Azkar in Chicago, the greatest importance attaches to every news item which pertains to the progress of this work. Mr. and Mrs. Pourgeois are in Haifa,. and doubtless will return to us with further definite Instructions. The Temple Unity Board is meeting in Chicago this weex when all arrangements will be made for the coming Convention and Congress. It has been suggested by Mr. Randall that all..the friends throughout the country "during the nineteen days fast, beginning March end, be asked to uss the prayer. 'The Remover of Difficulties’ for the foundation work of the Holy Temple, and that through the Pover of the Covenant, the doors may be opened for the spiritual and material assistance that will burn away the clouds of opposition, and bring to us the Bounty of GOD in our endeavors to promote His Cause, and rear into visible view this edifice which is the symbol of the Manifestation and the Law of GOD. The united Supplications of this whole country ought to be a great power to remove the difficulties that surround us."

The time of the Fast is a warvellous season for contyrplating deeply on ths things of the spirit, and a time precious beyond expressiou for receivinz nourishment for the spiritual body through the Bread of Life from the Divine Table. As the WORD of GOD is altogether the Dynamic Power, would it not be “beautiful obedience" to study at this time as never before, all that has been revealed on the subject of the Temple? The "YORD of GOD is the Storehouse of all good"; and Saeeur Life to all things."

"Through the Power of the Word of GOD wonderful signs will appear",

"Stand for the Promotion of His WORD".

"Comprehend the inner significances of the Word of GOD".

"Be submissive to the WORD of GOD".

"Harmony is not effected save through the influence of the WORD of GOD".

"Engage in the service of the WORD of GOD, that thou mayst behold the

confirmations of the Supreme Kingdom and observe the protection

and preservation of His Highness the Almighty". Pondering over the Holy Utterances, and seeking illumination upon them, will surely result in crystallizing real knowledge into real deeds. One sentencs.alone fron — the many Utterances before us contains sufficient to indicate the deeds that are so necessary:

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"The Mashrakol-Azkar of Chicago is of the greatest importance. This is a Bahai Temple, a supreme Youse of Jorship, a place of spiritual gathering and of the manifestation of divine mysteriss. The friends of GOD mst endeavor with all their hearts and souls that this structure may be raised and completed".

Abdul Baha, in a Tablet to Mr. Mills.

One of the many good compilations on the subject of the Temple will be found in the Star of the West of January 19th, 1916, Vol. 6, No. 17.

The teaching tour of Jenabe Fazel through this country indicates succesSive confirmations to a greater extent than ever before realized. Abdul Baha has Said we would be amazed, and certainly both friends and strangers have been exceedingly “amazed", for no Power could have opened wide so inany doors, and the baptism of tne spirit could not have been so apparent save through the Power of the Covenant: "All the forces of the universe in the last analysis serve the Covenant”.

How our good and faithful Fahai sisters and brothers every place have joyously anticipated thé visit from the blessed spiritual teacher, which visit was te mean so much to both friends and stranzers! And after the visit is accomplished and for days thereafter we are told the great cry is "Thy could he not have stayed longer!" And again from all sides ve hear the call for teachers. "Send us a teacher". "Ye must have a resident teacher for a while". These appsals conStantly arrive.

Out of a large number of letters, just let us quote a few lines from one received from Mrs. Barbee from St. Louis several weeks after the visit of Jsnabe Fazel to that City:

"Really I have no gift in teaching, but my experience here has taught me that there is a Power that precedes this great teacher, and the slichtiest effort to zet him and the Message pefors the people, is rewarded with success. Really I did nothing here to speak of; it was the Power of the Covenant that did it.

"If ever a City needed a resident teacher now, St. Louis is that City.

"We have a regular 'study meetinug', organized as Jenabe Fazel advised. A Jewess who comes Says she wished Jenabe Fazel could have stayed here a year, he is so remarkable as a teacher, with such knowledge and wisdom, and with the power to explain and elucidate withovt giving offense."

From Duluth also has come requests for a teacher, and Mr. Bauers of that City writes us that there is scarssly a person in the entire City who has not heard the Message. Inyuirers are many and the faithful friends are very busy teachinz, They long for a travelling teacher, or one who would be able to stay ior Some time and assist in ts great activities so apparent there now.

_From Spokane, Seattle, Vancouver, Portland, comes the oft repeated ap-— peal for teachers.

This is just ore of the results of the remarkable seed sowing of Jenabe Fazel, aud desonstrates that his "Pure Breath" has awakened souls and a veritadle army seeus to have joined the ranks of seskers and searchers after Truth.

"The doors of the Kingdom are opened; O what zood nsaws to those who advance! The gates of heaven ars open; blessed are they who see!"

Abdul Baha, N"Assuredly if man rises as he ought to, in service to the Kingdom, the ‘irit of the Divine Yinedom will encompass him." In the following "Diary Card" eports of Mirza Ahad Sohrab, we can see how the "spirit eacompassed" Janabe el:

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F M4 The Peunington Hotel, Spokans, Washinzton. Jan. 13,1°¢L

Last night and all day Jenabe Fazel was on the train heading toward this

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city where the friends have made great arrangements for his week's stay in their midst. Leaflets containing his photo and programs of all the meetings are published and distributed. On the way he enjoyed the high snow-capped mountains and desp valleys, the nine forests covered with the white mantle of winter and the iakes full of dazzling beauty. He said while looking over the matchless scene: "Prayer is.the vital breath of every Bahai. Even now all nature is praying with 1tS voicelvss tongue. Prayer is the food for the soul; it is the electric spark tnat releases the vital energy, makes intelligence active and mind operative, Vith prayer comes the principle of truth, keen and ssarching and unfailing in its demand for freedom of action. Only through the prayer of the heart, the universe of the mind -- deep, high -- is wide opened before the wondering gaze of the man -- the Secret place of the lost High. Prayer is the hunger and thirst after love and righteousness, The spirit of prayer quickeneth; the words profiteth nothing. Abdul Baha teaches us how to pray. The advancing hosts of today follow His clarion and clear note, on and on into ths promised land of life and light. Prayer rising out of the eternal mysteries of the heart cries aloud to the Eeloved of the world: Oh my Friend! Teach me to be Thine! Submerge me in the ocean of Thy Existence. Reveal to me the mystic Glances of Thy Beauty and create me anew and consecrate me to Thy Divine Call!" When Jenabe Fazel reached the station at 6 p.m., a large number of the friends were there to welcome him, such as Miss Raney, Miss King, Miss Philips, Mrs. Campell, Mrs. Sinks and Mrs. Snider. It was a beautiful heartfelt expression of love and union. Rooms were reserved in the Pennington Hotel and for dinner a lovely table was set aside in Davenport where all gathered together and visited their beloved Teacher. At 9 o'clock the Reporter of the Spokesman Review called and had an interesting talk. As El-Gazali, the Persian Philosopher says: "The highest function of man's soul is the perfection of Truth --- s0 Jenabe Fazel in conversing with friends and strangers creates in them the longing of the heart to be perfected in the splendor and majesty of reality. He has the aoility to draw people nearer to the Fountain of Purity and thoss who have met him cannot help but love him.

The Pennington, Spokane, Washington, Jan. 14th, 1921,

A day of joy and activity, hours of spiritual association with the friends of God, diffusing the Fragrances of the Kingdom of Abha. This is life. This morning three of the believers came to the hotel and took Jenabe Fazel to the Sperry Flour Mill -- a model mill for converting the wheat of Vestern fields into the flour for the world. It is fireproof and about the largest and most modern mill in the world. It produces 2000 barrels of flour per day. The guide took Jenabe through the different parts of the building, showed him various processes and machinery. One could hardly believe that turning wheat into flour needs so many methods. It was an education, and Jenabe Fazel enjoyed the sight. On our return the first lecture was delivered at noon in the Davenport Gothic Room before the » Chamber of Commerce Educational Convention. The luncheon served, the Persian Scholar went into the history of Persia and gave the interested audience a few achievements and glories of that land. There were many teachers and superintendents of schools and they all listened spell bound. Mr. Derr, the President, and Mr, Paine, the Secretary were most courteous in their remarks and realized that after all the universal ideals of Education are ths same everywhere. The meeting was so effective that Jenabe was invited to speak before the students of North Central High School on Tuesday. At 8 p.m., the talk on the reconstruction of Palestine vas given at the Temple Emanuel, the Jewish Synagogue, 3d and Madison. The Temple Was crowded to the door with more than 500 men and women, Rev. J. A. Liebert introduced Jenabe Fazel and spoke most sympathetically of the Bahai Cause, of its wartyrs and heroism, of its divine universal Principles, and how the Hast has been the dawning place of religions, like the sun -- ever rising from the Fast. The

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lecture of the teacher was eloyusnt and fluent, full of historical anecdotes and Spiritual lessons, ending with the account of the life of Abdul Eaha on Mount Carmel ag the Promised One of all nations, as the Unifier of religions and as the “tandard Bearer of Universal peacs. When he finished the Rabbi made a few pregnant remarks that if these are the Teachings of Abdul Zaha -=- then we are all Bahais; we are all working for the realization of the same ideals. We are all Striving to serve our fellowmen. The people were most wonderfully attracted,

The Pennington, Spokane, Washington. Jan. 15, 1921.

The life of the Bahai Cause in Spokane is about 14 years. “Mrs. Brittingham and a few other teachers have been here and have done fine work -- s0 that at present we have a body of Bahais, sincere and strong in the faith. The coming of Jenabe Fazel and his sojourn in their midst for a week is the greatest event, aud they have prepared and prepared well. This morning he went to the Hall of the Theosophical Society where he had interviews with a numoer of interested souls, especially Urs. Lorenz, the President of the Society. Im these interviews people gain much knowledge for their peculiar questions are asked and explained. At noon he was the honored guest of the Spokane Bar Association at their luncheon in Davenport Hotel. They were all lawyers and judges -- a most unusual coterie of fine men. C. D. Randell, the President, presided and introduced the Persian guest. He spoke on the system of Mohamadan and cannonical law in contradistinction with the civic law and how under the old regime purely religious laws were oodserved in the Courts of the land but now the Napolsonic Code is translated and the civic and criminal laws cf the civilized world are practiced. Then he told them about the great Law-giver of this Age, and how His system of Law, International in scope and universal in application, has changed that country and orought her in contact with the outside world. That Law-giver was Eaha'o'llah. They enjoyed the lecture immensely, and asked many yuestions. At 8 p.m., a lecture was delivered before the crowded assemblage of the Theo sophical Society on "The White Dawn of the New Cyclis" and the invisible links that are connecting the hearts of the people of the East and the West. Mrs. Lorenz introduced the Persian philosopher, and the talk made a deep impression. They had never heard anything like it. They soared toward the empyrean heaven of a new vision of humanity. Many guestions were asked, literature distributed and in reality the power of the Spirit was victorious.

The Pennington, Spokane, Washington. Jan, 16, 1921.

It snowed all day, but more than ons thousand people listened to the message of Divine Spriugtime both in the afternoon and evening. In the morning through the kindness of Miss May Philips, a Mr. Miller took Jenabe Fazel on a long ride through the city, the parks and various other points of interest. It is noteworthy to state that only 37 years ago the first white man came here, later the city was destroyed by a general fire but in this short space of time a city of more than 100,000 inhabitants has grown with vast buildings. Is not this a miracle of enterprise? Can we Bahais learn a lesson from this physical success and apply it to the construction of the kingdom of God in the hearts of the people? Can we? Have we the moral courage, the initiative, the indomitable will, and the love for self-sacrifice and achievement that Abdul Baha has? Dinner was served in a private hotel; 15 of the dear friends were invited to break bread with Jenabe Fazel. It was indeed the Lord's supper -- for there was love and understanding in the hearts. It was a heavenly feast full of divine attraction. At 3 p.m., a lecture was delivered in Moose Hall, before the members and guesis of the People's Forum. More than 400 people were present and they listened with rapt attention to the Bahai solution of the sconomic Problem. <FEseautiful songs were sung by two lovely Spokane girls. At the end of the speech, Mr. Mathews,

[Page 5]the chairman, opened the meetinz for questions and when every one was satisfactorily answered, several prominent men delivered 5 minute speeches, all giving unstinted praise to Jenabde Fazel and his intelligent grasp of the Economics. It was a livewire mesting, composed of all kinds of radical thinkers, but the power of the spirit won each and all. In the evening another talk was delivered in the Church of Truth, 6th & Jefferson on the subject: "Ye shall know the Truth and the Truth shall make you free", Rev. A. C. Grier, the Paster was essentially a spiritual man and in his introduction of Jenabe, became eloquent and most inspiring. He was filled with love. Jenabe's talk was a celestial portrait from the Gallery of the Infinite, a vision of the world of Truth and a gem from the mine of Reality. The audisuce was carried into the highest kingdom of the Zternal, where one can get a clear glimpse of the Me, the unchanging I, hidden in the secret abode of the, Everlasting Yea. After the lecture and handshakes, Jenabe was the guest of Rev. Grier for supper at his home -- where he met his wife, his two swest daughters, and son. A united family in the love of Truth. A full day with many darling experiences. The Pennington, Spokane, Washington, Jan. 17, 1921.

These are celestial days for the promotion of the Cause in America. Jenabe Fazel through his supreme example has stirred all the dormant powers and the longing to serve is manifesting itself in all parts; so that every soul in the world of the Cause from the great planets to the tiny mountain brooklets goes dancing aS well as singing in this mighty spiritual revival. The spirit of worldliness and want of steadfastness is being overcome, for the soul cannot live upon ideas alone, it needs the bread of a mighty example. The outward Saviour will not Save unless the inward faviour becomes alive with the power of the Holy fpirit. Abdul Baha is kuocking to come in, Open the door! UYe must walk in every heart and become the indwelling Lord of lords and King of kings. Today Jenabe Fazel from ten to twelve was in the Hall of the Theosophical Society meetinz all those who desired to have private interviews, He spoke on prayer, and the listeners were most attracted. At 1:30 p.m., he spoke to about 600 pupils of the Audubon School. Because the Hall did not hold more than 300 each time, he had to give his lvcture on "Old and New Life in Persia" twice. Being a public School there were boys and girls of all ages and they all listened with perfect quietness. It was a thrilling experience, for all the children came to know the name of "Abdul Baha", the Great Teacher of this Age. They were all interested and joyously clapped their hands at the end. They sang their songs for him with melodious voices. The principal and the teachers were most courteous and so happy that their young, growing pupils had this unique experience. For dinner Jenabe was the guest of Mrs, Lehman, one of the old and firm Bahais. She had spread a table of good things, and was most grateful that the sweet and humble teacher was in her home, At 8 p.m, a fine address was delivered before the American Legion on "Persia before and after the Yar." Commander Charles 8S. Albert introduced the Persian philosopher and for 25 minutes he spoke most facinatingly, before a crowded hall of veterans. They all gained a sreat deal of information, that they did not know. He told them how Baha'o'llah has come to establish peace and good will amone the nations of the earth and they all clapped their hands vigorously. They tell us the American Legion wants war. This cannot possibly be ture; for an important Clause in the Preamble of their Constitution is: "to promote peace and ceod will on earth". If they are sincere in this declaration, they are the Sons of God. The mesting was anmounced in their Semi-Monthly "Spokane Lezionaire", and so it was well attended. After this gathering, the believers took Jenabe to their "Bahai Room". It was a lovely place. Green palms and flowers decorated the Room. They sanz a number of Mrs. Waite's songs for him and then asked many questions about the msaniug and the use of the Greatest Name. ‘Jonderful explanations were given. It was a sweet union of the hearts of those who know and realize the importance of the day. Then Jenabe chanted for them in Persian, and with the sweet atmosphere created we left the place, spire la eans see me

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The Pennington, Spokane, Washington. Jan, 18, 1921. A busy day for Jenabe Fazel but vonderful in its results and significance. Miss Mabel King and Miss Nellie Raney took him to North Central High School. Dr. A. H. Benefiel, the Princinal welcomed them in his office. The school has about 2000 students; the large auditorium could hold only the Freshmen and Seniors -1200 fine boys and girls. A&A sea of waving, cheering faces hailed the Persian scholar on the platform and for 25 minutes he spoke about the Educational system of . Bahato'llah. He told them a mimber of stories which made them laugh heartily. It was indeed a glorious field. The Principal invited Jenabe to have lunch with the teachers which gave him a further opportunity to speak with them. Afterwards he was taken around the various departments, shops, etc., which interested him im mensely. At 3 o'clock he gave a fiery, spiritual talk before a large gathering of nearty 400 in the Church of Spokane on Main and Lincoln Streets. It is a church, the aim of which is to go back to the Apostolic Era and have a great belief in the efficacy of the Holy Ghost -- so Jenabe spoke on the power of the Holy €pirit and why it is the Christians of today have lost it. It was more like a revival meeting. The sounds of "Amen", "God bless you", "Right Brother", were heard from all sides of the Church -- men and women alike. Even the Minister, Rev. [D. N. McInterff was the loudest in his appreciation. "Just what I talked about," “exactly what this church stands for", "Glory to the Lord for His Grace", were some of his exclamations. Really, it was a meeting vibrant with joy. "hen the talk was over, men and women rushed to the platform, wild with happiness -- some of them weeping and the men embracing and kissing us with a fervor that was inspiring. ‘Te felt we were in Persia in a glowing Bahai meeting. These people have certainly Love and that is what the world needs, what we need. This scene in the Church of God will never be forgotten. Mrs. Gillen from her farm in Lakeside about 170 miles has come to meet the beloved teacher and she is present at all the meetings. Dinner was servied in the Dining Room of the Davenport and several of the friends were around the table. The last and most heavenly mseting was in the Mosonic Hall, Room 208 Rookery Building at 8 p.m., on the Seven Valleys. The two rooms were full, the halls were crowded and so many people stood all around. Many could not even get a glimpse of the teacher, but they heard every word. A remarkable inter~ est is created and the Bahais are happy that the hearts are being illumined and the walls of the prejudiced falling fast. Once the most inspiring talk was over, they asked questions without number and each answer was a “home drive", hitting the mark. Then, the people joyously leaving the hall, the Bahais had a meeting of their own, thanking the Beloved for the flood of His Grace pouring upon Spokane. The Pennington, Spokane, Vashington. Jan. 19, 1921. Without doubt the last week was the greatest in the history of the Behai Cause in Spokane. Never before have the Principles been so widely diffused amongst the thousands of people and in such a constructive and illuminating way, even the friends were astonished and delighted. This morning Jenabe Fazel was at the Theosophical headquarters to answer theirprivate questions. In regard to telepathy and transference of thought he said: "The spiritual world is like an inverted dome of bright glass on the ceiling of which are reflected all the pictures of the created phenomena -- here below on earth. The mind of man is similar unto a mirror turned toward that dome. The clearer the surface of the mirror tne more varied and beautiful the reflections of the pictures from the chrystalline dome. In this process two conditions are to be observed: lst, Not to turn the back of the mirror to the dome. 2d, Keep the surface of the mirror always polished. The minds of some people are always revolving and do not remain still, thus they get only glimpses of the Eternal drama. ‘hy mankind does not always cet the cleérest reflection of Truth, is because the revolving mirrors of their winds do not keep quiet and sometimes the mirrors are cracked, so they gst distorted figures,

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The Manifestations of God are those whose mirrors of minds are clearest and corStantly turned toward the Dome of Creation, thus having on their minds the pictures of the vast scheme of the universe and the infinite wonders of Being." In the afternoon a fine reception was given to Jenabe Fazel by the Theosophical fociety, and from 3 until 5 many people came, questions were asked, the problem of arts and their relations to life, the principles of Eugenics and heredity were all most intelligently and profitably discussed. Refreshwents were served and the spirit of warm hospitality, and gemiine friendship was in the glowing eyes and radiant faces. At 8 o'clock a large meeting was held in the Theosophical Hall -- crowded to the door, and Jenabe spoke on "Seif Mastery". This is a talk that is much enjoyed by all types of people, for it deals with the concrete, practical phases of life, placing in the hand the keys, wherewith one will become able to open the locked doors of Spiritual, mental and physical opportunities. Aiter the lecture, Mr. and Mrs. Lorenz, thanked our Persian teacher for his precious lessons and voiced the desire that he could stay much longer in their midst. The Theosophists have been the essence of love. They opened the doors of their Hall at all times and welcomed Jenabe with such grace of beauty and the beauty of grace that will never be forgotten. May the Heavenly Teacher reward them for all that they did. May God increase the number of such souls in the world! The Pennington, Spokane, Yashington. Jan. 29, 1921.

During the last few days that Jenabe Fazel has been living and working among these heavenly friends he found in their hearts the joy of service and the Strengtn of faith. Miss Mable King was ever ready to help day and night, attending the meetings, looking after the comfort of our teacher and assisting in the writing of articles. ‘iss Nellie Raney, sweet and selfless brought the letters and rendered many invaluable services, Mr. and Mrs. Ladd, Mrs. and Miss May Philips, Mrs. Snyder, Mrs. Agnes Bludget, Mr. and Mrs. ‘Tolcott, Mrs. Lehman and all the dear friends did much to make the Sojourn of Jenabe in their midst memorable. Never before has the Cause had such wide publicity in this city. Today at noon, Jenabe spoke before the Kiwanians at the Moorish Room in the Spokane Hotel. Mr. F. E. Langtry, the President, made a graceful speech, and as Jenabe got up every one arose and gave him a spontaneous welcome of honor and respect. The diners listened with rapt attention and the presentation of the Principles of the Cause made a deep impression upon them. Mr. M. A. Martin, Chairman of the Program Committee offered a vote of thanks to the Persian Scholar. There were many lawyers and judges present. At 2:30 another lecture was delivered in the parlor of the same hotel on VYomen's Movement in Persia. The meeting was advertised and a large number of people had come. This talk never fails to elicit the interest and enthusiasm of the listeners. In the evening Jenabe was the guest at dinner in the darling little home of Mrs. and Miss Philips at 1213 Dalton St. Miss May Philips is an active, dynamic young Bahai girl. Her name is "May" and she lives all the year around in the month of May, always hopeful, smiling, full of motion and energy. fhe loves Abdul Baha and has received a wonderful tablet from Him. The dinner arranged by her kind mother was delicious and wholesome. After dinner the Bahais and a number of friends came to attend the last meeting and Jenabe gave a joyous, happy talk, followed by many questions. It Was one of those informal meetings, radiating peace and harmony. A fine gentleman who for the first time attended such a meeting was so attracted by the universal ideals of the Movement that he said: "I wish there were thousands like you going around the world to teach the people these vital truths". Jenabe assured him that there are, for all the Bahais are confirmed in this service, no matter where they are. Thus the series of meetings here came to a happy end.

[Page 8]«8 Miss Nellie Raney and Mr. O. O. Wolcott of the Spokane Assembly have both written of the happy spiritual visit of Jenabe Fazel and Ahmad. Mr. Wolcott writes:

"Jenabe Fazel and Ahmad were with us and carried Spokane as reports tell us they carried other Cities. They bring the spirit with them and spread it around unsparingly. Hall overcrowded last night, and people turned away who could not get Standing room where they could hear the speakers. . . We would all like to keep them with us all the time . .. We have always fully believed that there were very many Seeking ones in this City if only wer could be gotten at in the right way. This way is "getting at them".

The Spokesman-Review and the Spokane Chronicle published exceptionally 500d accounts of all the talks, quoting at some length some of the salient points.

"Become thou engaged in teaching the Truth, for teaching the Cause containeth the power of a magnet; it attracteth the Mysteries of GOD." Abdul Paha.

Mr. Albert Vail has been giving a series of Talks at the home of Mrs. Corinne True in Chicago. The subject being "7hen the Yorld-Teacher Comes How shall Ve Xnow Him?"

Washington, D. C., has been greatly blessed the last few weeks, for the friends have veen favored with a visit from Mr. Albert Vail, Mr. Wm. H. Randall. and Mr. Howard “acNutt. Each served friends and strangers and contributed a wholehearted effort. So lovingly and effectively did they serve, that already there is the fruit of blessing and good results are apparent. _

One of the numerous activities of note near New York during the winter has been the meetings at Yonkers, and the publicity work planned by Mrs. Maud Gaudreaux. The Daily News, The Record and the Statesman, three papers of that City have all published articles, and the Record has been especially sympathetic and friendly. Mrs. Gaudreaux nas written most enthusiastically of the work accom plished, and feels that the good results have been forthcoming because of the united effort of the friends and the loving and effective service of so many of the teachers from New York and vicinity, who have assisted at different times in the work there. eu Mrs. Flora “4. Clark, Secretary of the Santa Barbara, California Assembly, Sends a little record of historic interest:

"In 1917, Mrs. I. D. Brittingham made her first visit to Santa Barbara as travelling teacher. She left a little group of four believers. ,

"In 1918 she returned again staying ten months, taught and established an Assembly of eight Selievers, and a number of others attracted. Through this Heavenly Service of Mrs. Brittingham, a Tablet of Blessing descended soon thereafter upon this Assembly, which came out in the Star of the Test.

"In 1919, Mr. and Mrs, Marco Zim and their two sons removed to New York. These Servants had given their Studio to the Meetings and Feasts, and sacrificed everything to serve, and their removal was a great loss.

"In the Autumn. of 1919, Miss Gesena Koch, who had been in Santa Barbara in 1918 and had removed to Berkeley, returned again to Santa Barbara and rendered most excellent service in securing platforms for Mirza ‘Ahmad Sohrab, who gave several fine talks during January 1920. Altho no real after in-gathering was apparent from this service, yet the Bahai Teaching had been given to many through Ahmad Sohrab's talks, and the Cause was not very active until dear srs, Prittingham returned to us the beginning of Nov. 1920. Although in frail health, yet she arose in the spirit of sacrifice to serve the Cause in Santa Barbara.

"Soon afterward Mr. and Mrs. Hunt, two advanced Spiritualists who have long been much interested, offered their studio rooms weekly to Mrs. Brittingham who has established a Bahai Teaching Meeting which is attracting a number of people

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of capacity. These are very illumined Meetings. Mr. and Mrs. Hunt have given their rooms to Abdul Baha.

"Once more we are arising to serve and are preparing for the visit of our revered Teacher Jenabe Fazel."

An inspiring letter from Mrs. Claudia §S. Coles gives us a splendidly intelligent grasp of the work in London. Her vivid pen pictures bring the loving Seed sowing which is being accomplished there, very close to our hearts, and the bond between all those divinely united is once more demonstrated. London is not far from Yashington these days. People invite Mrs. Coles to speak again and again, which shows the spirit speaks through her from group to group. A few quotations from the letter are in order:

"There are many places I want to go and much to do in all these personal contacts. For instance, one giving of the Message through happy social contacts at a luncheon, has been the means of scattering much literature in vital fields. The zeal of all makes the motion and heat of growth. .. . Miss Grand serves so beautifully using her social ties as wires for the life-civing currents of the Gladtidings. She is never weary in well doing. The confirmations are With her. The work is seed-sowing here in England. It cannot be handled as it is handled in Amsrica. People have suffered too much through the war. .. . they want deeds -not words. . . . It is glorious to be here and glimpse the greatness.

"Lady Plomfield is in England just now. She is usually in Geneva with the Child-weifare work in which Abdul Baha has blessed her. A Persian from Eshkabad with a letter from Abdul Baha saying to treat him with all respect and love is here. He brings the spirit. I have also met Mr. Dawud who translated "The Mysterious Forces of Civilization" an old believerhere. There are several others from Eshkabai and somes other parts with letters. They go with them either to Mrs. George or Miss Rosenberg, and then are brought to the meetings and warmly greeted. Everywhere there is work to do. Everywhere there is need for love and service. All we can do is to pray to do that tiny deed, that is His Will, that will lead to the preparation of the soil to receive the seed of the Knowledge of the Manifestation of GOD today for the redemption of the world. People listen to that, and they do believe.

Please don't say I am doing anything, only that I am doing all I can in love and hope and faith."

A word from Miss Rosenberg on the work in London is timely:

"IT am sure you have had letters from our dear Mrs. Claudia Stuart Coles. It is such a delight to have her here with us, and wa have so greatly appreciated her help in our meetings. She has given us many beautiful addresses. Her enthuSiasm is most refreshing and inspiring, and her deep knowledge of the ‘Yritings and Teachings is guite wonderful."

wg eG eee Divine Yords and Sort ptural Yerses are the First Bounty which pours forth from the Mercifui Reality, and are the highest and greatest Gift

which is sent down and bestowed upon human beings." Mirza Abul Fazl in The Bahai Proofs.

meee eee ee Oe

A note from Mrs. Isabella D. Brittingham tells us that "Miss Elizabeth Stewart after forty heavenly days with the Beloved in Haifa, left again for Teheran. She was to sail from Port Said for Persia, via Bombay and the southern route, going alone -- yet never alone. It would be more than a month ere she reached Teheran." Also in the same letter Mrs. Brittingham tells about preparing for the visit of Jenabe Fazel in Santa Barbara.

A letter from Mrs. S. G. Stirling of Hudson, N. Y.® gives us word of the safe arrival of her granddaughter, Miss Leonora Holsapple at Rio de Janeirp,Brazil.

[Page 10]#10.

This devoted sister has gone to South America as a blessed server in the Cause, and we believe it will be a joy to all to learn this good news. ‘Since Miss Martha Root's glorious pioneer work in that part of the Vineyard the field has been ready for many servers.

A wonderfully interesting report comes from Miss Jessie Revell of Philadelphia, giving an account of the meetings arranged for Mr. Roy Williams of Washington. From January 26th to February 14th, the weetings were continuous either in Philadelphia or at Riverton, N. J. The letter reports the talks given at private hones, at churches, at Club organizations, at the Y.M.C.A. and other Centers. Miss Revell tells us these mestings vere well attended by enthusiastic audiences, and She adds that one could never really describe the spirit of them. It was a real revival service.

Wiss Elsie Pomeroy of Montreal, Canada sends us a word about the work in Montreal in regard to funds. A portion of her letter follows:

"The Asseribly here in Montreal has a plan for raising money for the Teaching Fund and Mashrakol-Azkar by means of small banks owned by each member. We mset the 9th of each month. The result of our meeting this month was $67.00, half to be placed in the Teaching Fund and half in the Mashrakol-Azkar Fund."

"Tf you appoint a special day -- that is the 3th day of every month -- for cousultations regardinz the Mashrakol-Agkar, it will oe favorable."

From a Tablet by Abdul Baha.

Mrs. Margaret Atwater is rendering an effective services in Miami, Fla., this winter, and is especially interested in publicity work. She has been very successful in her endeavors, and "The Miami Metropolis" is publishing a series of articles on the Principles and timely topics regarding the Cause. This daily paper is certainly a fine publicity medium just now, for it is read by hundreds of tourists at this season of the year who will carry the Message with them to their distant homes.

A new Musical Club has been organized in San Diego, California, and ouroWwWa irs. Louise Taite is Corresponding Secretary. The Club is called "The Rose and © the Nightingale IfMsical Club" and the newspapers of the City seem to have featured it considerably. The aim of the Club is its attractive quality: It's first aim is "to present to the people of San Diego and its out-of-town guests, programs from time to time which will be distinctive and original, among which will be an evening devoted to the msic, poetry and spiritual ideals of each race. . . " Mrs. Marcella Morgan is Recording Secretary and Mr. Yaite, Treasurer of the Club. The first entertainment was at the ‘Yomen's Club House in San Diego and was a unique and wonderful success. There was "Life and more Life" in and around and on the programs for the Yords of Abdul Baha were made a prominent part thereof. It seems to us that the greatest success always comes when the element of sacrifice largely enters into any service. lirs. ‘aite often arose from a sick bed and worked in connection with this program and herself contributed two numbers. This is truly one of the lovliest pieces of publicity work being accomplished.

"The Nightingale of Yisdom is singing in the Rose Garden of the Love of Os «8 aia Abdul Baha.

The friends generally have been informed of the death of our dear sister Miss Lillian Kappes in Teheran. ‘e well remember her shining face in the Assembly of the friends in New York and vicinity some years ago, and with what joy she re if

[Page 11]sponded to the call for a teacher for the Tarbiat School. The following comrunicavion has just come from the friends in Teheran, and as many of Lillian's friends will want to read it, we are publishing herewith, thereby sharing with as many as possivle:

"The most difficult task for the Society of Khadeueen Atfal (those devoting their services to children) is to announce to the friends of GOD the death of our American Bahai sister, Miss Lillian Frances Kappes. This revered and blessed soul, who in the year 1911 came from America to Persia in the services of the Tarbiat School, and spent her precious life in educating her Persian sisters, passed on to the Threshold of the Aliighty at the age of about thirty, in December 1920, and left the traces of her yualities and virtues in the hearts. The only consolation that we have is that Miss Lillian Kappes is not really dead, for though her physical temple has put on the garment of death, her holy spirit is clothed with tne silken robe of life and will live forever and forever."

Wiss Alma Knobloch was in New York and vicinity last wesk giving a series of talks. She will probably visit other Assemblies before returning to Tashington. At present she is in Springfield, Mass., sharing her wealth of knowledge with the radiant and entmsiastic friends of that Assembly.

vir. Chas. Mason Remey has returned to Germany after a short visit at Haifa.

Mr. J. E. Gilligan, formerly of San Quentin, has now joined ths San Diego Assembly, and for the time being is the guest of Mr. and Mrs. Edgar F. “aite. All those who are divinely united are warmly greeting this good brother, either suvjectively or objectively, and it is assured that he will have a conscious realization of the co-operation and brotherhood that is worth while as he starts his loving services to his fellow human beings. That he can serve effectively has already been demonstrated. He is squarely facing the Center from Thom cometh Life, hence the tree of his existence has become well rooted.

"O Lord! Confirm us to deliver Thy Cause, enable us to call in Thy NAME, Cause us to show forth the proofs of Thy Manifestation, strengthen us to promote Thy ORD. Verily, Thou art the Giver, the Powerful, the Mighty!"

ed

Respectfully and lovingly submitted,

THE TEACHING COMMITTEE OF NINETEEN By Mariam Haney, Secretary.

The Mendota, Vashington, D. C. February 1921.