National Teaching Committee Bulletins/1921/January/Text

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National Teaching Committee Bulletins January, 1921

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"Blessed is whosoever is illumined by the Sun of My WORD." Baha'o'liah.

"Therefore, in the beginning, one must make his steps firm in the Covenant, so that the confirmations of Baha'o'llah may encircle from all sides, the cohorts of the Supreme Concourse may become the supporters and the helpers, and the exhortations and advices of Abdul Baha, Like unto the pictures engraved on the stone, may remain permanent and ineffaceable in the tablets of the hearts."

Abdul Baha.

ese SE ee Se 2 oe

BULLETIN "A"

Issued by the Teaching Committee

——S ae ee

It has been found necessary to incorporate in a Special Bulletin the news items of some of the activities of the teachers in the field and in various Centers d where the earnest endeavors of the friends fully demonstrate that "the Light of | Knowledge hath appeared" for many souls. } Resuming the journey once again with the beloved teacher, Jenabe Fazel, we arrive at Omaha, Nebraska. Usre Mrs. Florence E, Olds, a beautifully sincere, loyal soul, had been confirmed in service so that she was enabled to prepare the way for the visit of all visits, so that the Glad-tidings might be spread in this City as never before. It has been said of Omaha on many occasions "that every one there is chasing the gold dollar" -- but when Janabe Fazel enters a City something happens, and the people begin to awaken from the sleep of negligence and bestir themselves sufficiently to want to know a little something about Truth. Mrs. Olds writes: "Our meetings were fairly well attended, considering the season and the varied interests . . . The public work is altogether new to me... so it was an extra blessing to have ‘fr. Vail. He was surely sent by Abdul Baha to us, for he is a grand servant anywhere, always; so patient, brave and selfless. He is a light in the world in reality, and draws hearts to the Love of the Kingdom. Our meetings were quiet, but very much harmony and unity of purpose evident. Jenabe Fazel does love to answer questions. How he sheds the Divine radiance around the one he is answering. No matter how simple or ignorant the question, he never deems it beneath his notice. He is so great, we camnot oegin to appreciate him. Think of his great sacrifice, his discomfort, wearied in body, separation from his own loved ones; all for the love of God and humanity .... " The report from Mrs. Olds also tells of a ir. Pierce who has now, through this heavenly visit of the teacher to Omaha, come into the Cause. He had received letters from Miss Margaret Peeke twenty years ago, is a student of reality, has _ taught Esperanto, travelled and lectured. Mr. Pierce says that the Bahai Movement is the first he has found that is in perfect accord with science and reason. He

“ae | , ae pion is studying deeply into the Revelation, and so the Omaha friends are rejoicing, 1262 for they will now have some one who will be an excellent teacher. Mr. and Mrs. 1921 Olds and ir. Pierce, with their earnest endeavors, will surely become the nucleus Tan for a fine Bahai Assembly in Omaha. The radiant, beautiful efforts of these

c. lL [Page 2]friends will be a sweet and Precious chapter in the history of the Cause.

The following report of the work in Omaha was written by the enlightened and illumined soul, Dr. Pierge, who had found such radiant joy in tae visit of our revered teacher:

"As the facets of the diamond ee the lustre of, the gem, and shame the setting, so the many anzles of his wisdom reveal the pure spirit of our friend, Jenabe Fazel, who, with his gifted interorete r, Ahmad Sohrab, spent three servicefull days in Cuaha, kindling the fires of Love in the hearts of our people with Sparks from his own celestial flame.

"With the yuaint imagery peculiar to sages and children, he held aloft cefore us the ideal o? consecrated, Lov2begetten service which shall lead the world to Peace; and among his appreciative audiences were many sorrow-softened hearts which, under the Spell of nis eloyuence, came to a realization of their immersion in the deluge of Love which, like an inundation, is spreading over the world, saturating all men's hearts as it goes.

"Some people have thouzht Omeha unappreciative because of the rélatively smail audiences which were attracted bi: the visit of our friends; but those who did attend were very appreciative, and the Bahai Cause will grow more through the efforts of a few sincere ones than through the blind following the multitude.

The friends completed their long journey from Duluth, arriving in Omaha at 7:45

on the morning of December 14th, and being met at the station by Mrs. Walter P, Olds and her son, Brice. After breakfast at the Olds home, they received the repreSentatives of the three Omaha newspapers, all of which published interesting

news itemS concerning the friends and the movement. The party was also joined here by tir, Albert Vail, who came from Chicago for the purpose, and whose radiant countenance and inspiring message cheered, strengthened and uplifted all who heard or saw him. A few such devoted Bahais as Mr. Yail, letting the immer glory shine through the outer grace, would do more to reveal the Truth and redeem the world than countless sermons.

"At the noonday luncheon of the Lion's Club at the Rome Hotel, to which the friends were taken by Mr. Randall and Dr. Hmmett, Jenabe Fazel gave an interesting Eahai talk, which was much enjeyed; and at the rooms of the Metaphysical Socisty he talked illurinatingly the same afternoon and evening on "The Ideals of the New Age" and "The Solution of the Economic Problem". The remainder of the day waS Spent in helpful endeavor at the Clds' home, where the party took dinner. Mrs. Rovbins sent her car to take the friends to the meeting place.

"Wednesday, December 15th, was another day of loving, helpful service for our friends, who, with Mrs, Olds, carried a mission of healing to an afflicted body in which resides a beautiful soul. Mrs, Rose, the recipient of the visit, has been a great sufferer during many years, and joined in the fervent prayers of both Jeniabe Fazel and Aloert Vail for her healing. wr. Roy Tedrow served the party joyfully on this occasion, taking ther to and from the Rose home in his car, At 11:30 in the morning, Jenabde Fazel addressed the Literary department of the Women's Club on "The Poetry of Persia", and in the evening he spoke at the Theosophical Society room on "Tne Universal Consciousness of Christ". In the afternoon he spoke to a little group gathered at the Olds home on "The Seven Valleys", Mrs. Alice Tedrow sang 4 beautiful solo and the Olds children passed Candy.

"Thursday, December 16, completed the succession of three busy days in Omaha, the friends spending an hour in the morning with Mrs. Harriet Jensen at her home: speaking at noon to the Concord Club at the Henshaw Hotel on "Old and New Life in Persia". The response wag. very gratifying. In the afternoon Jenabe Fazel spoke in the Theosophical Hall on “The Key to Celfi-Mastery is Self- | Forgetfulness". This was perhaps the most important of his lectures here, ani unfortunately for many who would otherwise have heard it, it was delivered in the

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afternoon instead of in the evening. The message-bearer should be met by all at any time, but the western world has not yet come to the point where that can be dons. The influence of the veritable Presence was brought for the first time into the lives of some-of those who attended this meeting by the chanting of a prayer in the Persian language at the close of the lecture.

"To dinner in the Olds home;with the friends' party came Mrs. Frank Coover, of Lincoln, Nebraska, who came to Omaha to attend a couple of the meetings here, and take the friends with her to Lincoln, where meetings had been arranged for them. She was a most welcome guest. The ball room of the Castle Hotel was the scene of ths evening lecture, which told of "Abdul Baha, His Life and Teachings", The audience on this occasion was one of the largest and most appreciative of the series, and we are surs that if our friends had been permitted to remain in Omaha for a few more days they would have done great work. Even during their short Stay they sowed seeds which we are sure will grow into a rich harvest for future garnering.

"A class for the study of Esperanto as well as the Bahai revelation will Start about the first week in January. ‘Ye wish to secure the literature of the Bahai movement in Esperanto, ind Esperantist Bahais the world over are invited to write to us.

"All this to the end that, and knowing that it will not be long until, the sound of strife shall be hushed and, because peace reigns, the lands shall blossom as the rose. No longer shall there be mine and thine, but ours. No longer shall there be master and servant, but comrade, No lonzer shall. there be North nor South nor East nor West, but one world (our world), undivided and in divisible, with Peace and plenty for all. Then shall the Covenant be fulfilled."

The address of the friends in Omaha is 1010 South 28th St., if any one Wishes to correspond. Perhaps those who are Zsperanto students, like Dr. and Mrs. Woolson of St. Paul, would like to correspond with Dr. Pierce in Esperanto on the subject of the Bahai Teachings.

The Omaha newspapers were exceedingly friendly: The Omaha Bee, the Daily News and the World Herald, published good illustrated articles, reporting the mestings and interviews with much accuracy, and on each day between the 14th and. 17th of December,

tiful meetings in Lincoln, “Nebraska. That they "ere greatiy strengthened and coniirmed in service was demonstrated, as the doors opened for a wonderful work in the Capital City of Nebraska. They were the only Bahais in this City, but the Sesds of Truth scattered ty the beloved teacher Jenabe Fazel, will attract many longing souls who have been searching for the Remedy for the ills afflicting the Sick body of the world today. In writing of their visit, Mr. Coover states:

Me had the great pleasure of arranging Jenabe Fazel's lectures here on December i7th. There were three meetings. First at the University of Nebraska Convocation, Second at the Kiwanis Club, and Third at the Unitarian Church. The messages were appropriate for each... We know that there will be fruit from the seeds planted in the hearts and minds of many who heard or whom others willtell. Equal in many ways with our dear brother so recently from Persia (Jenabe Fazel), is our dear Ahmad Sohrab. His interpretations and his voice are in wonderful harmony with the speaker and the audience. Please give the word to all Fahai friends of the wonderful joy and uplift their visit brought to our City and state."

The Lincoln Daily Star of the 17th of December, puolished a column account of Jenabe Fazel's marvellous talk at the Co&vocation at the University of Nebraska, q.oting from his talk on "Educational Reformation in Persia", The paper” guotes Jenabe Fazel as saying that one of the Principles of the Divine Fducator who appeared in Persia, Baha'o'llah, was the establishment of such a curriculum

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Re said: "These schools must be recreational centers so that students when they get up in the morning will think about the day before them with happiness and joy, and go to school with joy and happiness; and their teachers must be guides and friends and not taskmasters. He wanted children educat.4i in the arts and crafts as well as in literature. He also wanted education in ethics and philosophy. The bird of humanity has two wings: one moral education, and the other scientific education, and without both wings it cannot fly..."

This is only a brief excerpt from the newspaper article. The talk was evidently one of the greatest importance, and several hundred students, as well as the Faculty of the University, listened to the illuminating talk with rapt attention, and all agreed it was the most distinguished address of the year.

"Thou hast prayed to remain firm in the Covenant all thy life. This is the hope of every holy soul in this world. It is the Banner of the Covenant that waves over all the regions; because it 15 the means of the Protection of the Cause of God and the unity of the believers." Abdul Baha.

Topeka, Kansas was the next Oi ty on the schedule of the itinerary of the great teacher, Jenabe Fazel. Here, as elsewhere, there had been splendid preparations for the few days visit. The friends had their programs printed and widely circulated, so that the people of Topeka generally were anticipating a Spiritual treat. The newspapers of the City both before and during the time of the visit published much in the way of favorable comment. The Topeka Daily Capital quoted from some of the addresses of the beloved friend and teacher.

Mrs. Matt Yeightman, a cousin of George Latimer of Portland was the hostess for the distinguished guests. Mr. Albert Vail was also in Topeka to assist in the work in many ways and was a guest at the home of Miss Hyde. He is particularly happy in introducing the great teacher and in his introductory talks. Also Mrs. Rose Hilty of Enterprise, a believer for many years, spent several days in Topeka and together with her daughter, Miss Hilty, who lives there, rendered valuable assiStance.

Miss Hyde has written briefly of the visit, and among other things, States:

"A week has passed since the glorious visit of Jenabe Fazel and his | devoted helper, Ahmad Sohrab. The days of their sojourn were blessed ones, and we learned to admire and love them in the short time of their stay ... The meetings I think were well attended when one considers that they were held just a week before Christmas. (Sunday, the 19th, three meetings were held; in the morning at the Metaphysical Library on the ‘Master Key to Self-Mastery'; in the afternoon at the Orpheum Theatre on 'The Teachings of all Religions are Identical’; and in the evening again at the Orpheum on 'The Religion and Reality of Jesus Christ’. se It is not large numbers that count. We are all learning and getting experience. I am sure I could plan better in some Ways another time, and even with the feeble efforts I have made, I have experienced a wonderful blessing and feel an impelling force to go on with the work. Mr. Vail talked personally with a mumber, and left a list with me whom I shall consult with the idea of starting our meetings again. That, I am sure, is very important, and we want prayers for our success. The Monday meetings Were at the Elks Club on 'The Ideals of the New Age', and at 8 p.m in the Library of Vashburn College on 'Modern Education in Persia’. The talks were all inspiring and many souls have heard the Message of Glad-tidings which confers life and more life." One of the most interesting items from Miss Hyde's report tells of the "signs of confirmation" when Mr. Birkhead, a Unitarian Minister from Kansas City, who was in Topeka at the time, came to the meeting on Sunday evening and offered his church in Kansas City for Wednesday evening. "The Gales of the Infinite'’" quicken all those souls into action who are receptive.

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[Page 5]Mr. Vail accompanied Jenabe Fazel and Ahmad to Kansas City, and Mrs. Wm. F, Slater of Chicago had travelled from Chicago, at her own expense, to assist in every way possible in that City. So the stay in Kansas City was a happy and joyous one and doors opened for service as if by magic. The Kansas City papers of December 2lst, 22nd and 23rd published articles about the distinguished visitor. The Times, Post, Star and Journal in this way gave wide publicity to the meetings. Two meetings were held at All Souls Unitarian Church, Dr. L. M. Birkhead, Minister (and at whose invitation the great teacher had come to Kansas City). The Talks were on "The New Educational Movement in Persia" and the "Education of Persian Women". Also several private interviews and personal teaching were given of great importance. It is certain that sood fruit will result from this visit for every moment confirmations descended and the happiness of the Xingdom was in all hearts.

The Diary Card Reports for Omaha, Lincoln and Topeka in the series by Mirza Ahmad Sohrabd follow: Hotel Conant, December 14, 1920.

Omahs, Nebraska.

Omaha, a city of 200,000 population and full of American spirit of speed. Mrs. 7. P. Olds has bean arranging the meetings. ‘hen Jenabe Fazel entered the station she was there to welcome him. Then he was taken in a taxi to her home, 1010 28th €t. South, to have breakfast. The papers had already announced his coming and soon the reporters of the Yorld-Herald, Bee and Daily News,

With their photographers arrived and all the afternoon papers had his photo and the interview. The list of the meetings and their places are already published on leaflets and widely distributed and tne dooklet containing the "activities of

this week in Omaha" given out in hotels and stores had a short article about the Cause and the full list of the meetings. In this manner every one would read and come to the different gatherings. Omaha has had other Bahai teachers in the past. Abdul Baha stopped here one night on his way to the Pacific Coast in 1912. Mr. Vail's fasuily lived here for nearly 10 years and he has been here several times. Mr. Howard Ives, Mrs. H. Ford and Mrs. i. Greenleaf have stopped here on different occasions and taught the Bahai Cause, so the Cause is not a stranger to the people. At noon Jenabe Fazel was the honored guest of the Lion's Club in Hotel Rome. His subject was "International Unity and Brotherhood". Mr. Albert Vail

who also arrived this morning to be with Jenabe during the next few days was present and introduced him to the members of the club. They all arose from their seats and welcomed him with applause. It was a wonderful lecture. At 2:30 another talk was given at ths Metaphysical Club on the "Ideals of the New Age"

in Patterson Building. The members were all deeply interested, especially the President coming from the San Diego Metaphysical Society knew well the Cause and is a steadfast friend. Dinner was served in Mrs. Olds' home and ths third lecture was delivered at 8 p.m., in the same building on the "Solution of Economic Problem". The hall was filled with a fine intelligent people and after the lecture many questions were asked about the situation in Persia, International language, Universal Peace, etc. Indeed Mrs, Olds has worked wonderfuily to prepare such a fine program. She is a sincere soul and her heart is filléd with the love of

Abdul Baha.

Hotel Conant, Omaha, Nebraska. Dec. 15, 1920. Omaha has given a glorious reception to the messeuger of Abdul Baha. All the papeis wrote in detail and explained the aims of the Cause. This is indeed a great victory, for God is opening the doors of the hearts -- so that they may receive the light of the Sun of Reality. Today at 1 o'clock, Mr. Vail and

[Page 6]- 6 Mrs. Olds called at the hotel and took Jenabe Fazel to call on Mrs. Rose who has been an invalid for a long time, but her face is turned toward the Centre of the Covenant, askinz for healing. He spoke to her of the joy and confidence that the iife of the spirit brings and her soul was cheered and uplifted, It is always on these occasions that the beauty and attraction of Jenabe Fazel become manifest because he is the embodiment of kindness and sympathy. . At 11:30 Jenabe and the

rest of the party went to the Y.7.0.A,, a beautiful building, to speak before the literary department of the Yoman's Club, He gave a very fascinating talk on "The Poetry of Persia", detailing the life and work of Ferdousi and KurratUl-Ayne, and yuoting from their poems, ending the talk with an account of the Cause, At luncheon he was the guest of Mrs, Johnson who is a member of the board of Y.%.C.A. and who is deeply interested in 411 things oriental, At 3 o'clock a lovely meeting was held in the home of Mrs. Olds. She had invited a number of her friends to Listen to the Persian teacher, At first he talked on the life of the Bab, and later on the Saven Valleys. For two hours he spoke uninterruptedly and delighted his hearers. At 3 o'clock the meeting was held in Leflang Building in the Theosophical Society on the Universal Consciousness of Christ. The hall was filled and about 2CC souls were present. The audience listened and grasped the ideal that not only Christ but all the prophets had this universal consciousness -- that it i§ useless to spsak about it. unless we can get it, that ve mst embody in ourselves the attributes and virtues of Christ and become Christ-like, We must become in his image and likeness. Today Abdul Baha has that Universal consciousness and we must receive it fron him. Without it we are all dead. After the meetings many questions were written on the paper and Jenabe Fazel answered all of them with ths utmost wisdom and knowledge.

Hotel Conant, Omaha, Nebraska, Tec. 16, 1920,

When in 1912 Abdul Eaha stopped one night in Omaha and had one interview with one of the newspapers, no one could dream that in 1920 Jenabe Fazel will cone here, stay three days, and deliver a series of talks before hundreds and hundreds of people -- so that the Cause is actually estaoslishsd and several thousands are informed through the press. One must look out into the world and see how the Cause is spreading everywhere in spite of ail the hindrances placed before it by its socalled friends. This morning Jenabe Fazel called on Mrs. Jensen, avery ripened | soul, informed with the principles and desiring to spread its spirit throuchout the world. She will be @ wonderful teacher of this Cause, for she has the knowledge and the capacity. At 12 o'clock a fine lecture was delivered before more than one hundred business men of "Concord Club" in Henshaw Hotel. It was on the "Old and-New Life of Persia", and the attention of those professional men was something to admire. They had @unounced the meeting in their weekly, "The Concorder", and the words were typically Awerican in construction. At 2:30 o'clock in Leflang Building in Theosophical Society the talk on "Self~-Mastery" was given before a deeply interested audience. The President of the Lodge was full of gratitude and the wisdom of Jenave Fazel has made many, many friends for the Cause, Everyone in the party was the guest of Mrs. Olds for dimer, ‘fhe is 4 sweet and faithful Bahai. The love of our beloved Abddul Baha shines in her neart like a star and she had worked so enthusiastically to prepare the wonderful Omaha program, The last talk in this city was delivered in the Ball Room of Castle Hotel on "Abdul Baha, his life and teaching", In all the previous meetings Mr, Yail has been giving poetic and beautiful presentations of Truth paving the way for the teacher from the East, This evening lecture dealing with the Centre of the Covenant was especially attractive and everyone enjoyed it fully. Mr. Olds and a number of others who are lately interested ars going to form classes and study the teachings with earnestness and regularity. Thus Jenabe has opened many doors of opportunity for the frienus

rd

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and will do so as he goes from city to city, spreading ail around the lights of love and amity. By example he is showing to all the Bahais how to teach, how to walk in the footsteps of Abdul Baha, how to hold aloft the torch, undiminished in radiancy, beauty and lustre. May we not learn from him? | The Lincoln Hotel, Lincoln, Nebraska. -Dec. 17, 1920. Although in 1912 Abdul Baha visited Lincoln and callsd on the wife and daughter of Mr. Bryan, yet to all outward appearances there was no Bahai in this city until last year when Mr. F. G. Coover met some of the friends in New York City and accepted the revelation. Through him three very important engagements were made for this day. Mrs. Coover came to Omaha yesterday to escort Jenabe Fazel to Lincoln. Mrs. Coover is a fine, intelligent woman. This morning at 3:20 the train pulled out of the station and about 10:30 we reachsd Lincoln. Mr. Coover and Mr. Parker were at the station and took Jenabe Fazel to the Lincoln Hotel. At 11 o'clock ticy all went to the University of Nebraska. Here Jenabe Fazel was introduced to Prof. H. S. Alexander, dean of philosophy and Prof. P. H. Grummnd, dean of Arts. In the Convocation of the Avditorium hundreds of students were present and Jenabe Fazel gave a striking lecture on "International Education" which later was published in Lincoln Daily Star and the State Journal. It was a most notable gathering. At 12 o'clock Jenabe was the guest of Kiwanis Club. There were more than 150 men around the tables, amongst them Mrs. Bryan's brother, with whom Jenabe had a long interesting talk. The Xiwanians gave a rousing welcome to the Eastern Sage and his words were much appreciated. Mr. and Mrs. F. G. Coover invited us for dinner and most enjoyable hour was spent by the fireside of this happy and spiritual family. The lecture of the evening was delivered from the pulpit of the All Souls Unitarian Church; the subject being "The Bahai Movement Toward: World Unity". The audience was transformed into a meeting of love and unity, innumerable questions were asked and sufficient and glorious answers given. The papers were most generous, reproducing the talks almost in full -- thus thou-sands of people reading the story of world Education and ‘orld Union. In one day three most important meetings were held and when at-1l o'clock we returned to the hotel we realized most vividly that the star of Confirmation is guiding this party. 1263 Fillmore Ave., Topeka, Kans., Dec. 18, 1920. The State Journal of Lincoln contained an article this morning on "The Brotherhood of Man" a resume of the history and the principles of the Movement, so necessary for these cities, where the people know practically nothing about this Cause. Jenabe Fazel got up early this morning because he had to take the train at 7 a.m. for Topeka. In Manhattan we had to take another train after one hour of . waiting in the station. At 3:15 p.m., we reached Topeka and to our joy were wel-: comed by Mrs. Weightman, a cousin of Mr. George Latimer. She welcomed Jenabe Fazel and Mr. Vail and took them to her sweet, lovely home. Our teacher will be her guest during his two days stay in Topeka. Mr. “‘leightman, Jr., is a member of Kansas Legislature and a fine man of quality and sweet and lovable character. Here in Topeka other Bahai speakers have come, such as Mr. Remey, Mrs. Ford, Mrs. Powell, Mrs. Finch, Mr. G. Latimer and Mr. Vail, each one of whom have left behind a beautiful spirit. Tonight there was a glorious meeting in the home of Mrs. Weightman. She had invited a large number of her friends to come and hear Jenabe Fazel and welcome him to Topeka. Rev. Kulp of Methodist Church and Rev. Rayhill of the Congregational were present and listened to the talk of the teacher on the fundamental unit of all religions and races. They were deeply interested and afterwards the guests asked questions. The Bahai Movement has besn taught quite publicly in Topeka and there are many souls who are interested. Mrs. Yeightman and Miss E. Hyde are devoted and have done a good work in arranging the program of

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lectures which will commence tomorrow morning at the Metaphysical Society. This tour is opening the eyes to the stupendous possibilities of teaching. Jenabe Fazel was saying: "The Teaching Committee should consider to send teachers to these cities through which we have passed -- to water the seeds sown in the hearts. This is a most important work that should not be neglected." Everything about this marvellous tour is perfect. We have not yet missed one engagement; the literature nas been supplied to ali the Centres so that after every speech there are enough booklets to distribute amongst the hungry souls. Never before the Cause has been presented from so many angles to many different societies. Jenibe Fazel is indeed confirmed.

1263 Fillmore St., Topeka, Kans., Dec. 19, 1920.

This if a beautiful Sunday, for the sun was shining in heaven and the hearts were glad. Jenabe Fazel was busy all day, giving four lectures and making many hearts happy. Our hostess, Mrs. Weightman is the soul of hospitality and kindliness and does everything to make her honored guest from the East comfortable. In the morning the lecture was delivered by the teacher in the Metaphysical Library, 10th and Topeka Avenue, on "Self Mastery". .The audience received much inSpiration and instruction and at the end a lady said: "I have always felt that too many missionaries are sent to the Orient, but am delighted to realize that now missionaries are coming from the Orient to give us knowledge and wisdom." Many expressed their conviction that this was the best lecture they have listened to for years. The President announced that their Library contains a full set of Bahai literature and a good deal for sale; that anyone can borrow or buy or come there and read these books. I wish some of the Bahai Centres were as well provided with Bahai literature as this Centre that does not claim to be a Bahai. Both in the afternoon at 3 o'clock and 8 o'clock p.m., two lectures were given at the Orpheum Theatre on “The Teachings of all Religions are Identical" and "The Religion and Reality of Jesus Christ". Both meetings were well attended and the questions asked were most intelligent and based on a desire to know the truth. After this meeting in the evening, Jenabe Fazel went to the Spiritualist Church of Divine Truth at 116 E. 6th Street, to speak to them. He spoke on the importance of the spirit and how man is man through the phenomenon of the spirit and not flesh and blood. The honor and glory of the world of humanity is through the manifestations of the spirit. The Bounties of the spirit are universal, just as the rays of the Sun are universal. Mrs. F. E. Smith, the Pastor of the Church was glad and told Jenabe Fazel that she saw before him a vast pool of clear, translucent water on the surface of which were beautiful lilies, some open, others half-open and a large number were still in bud. These were the souls who will receive the message of brotherhood from his lips. They are all awaiting for the blowing of the breeze of universal religion and universal love. During the last few days the newspapers have been writing notices about the lectures and this morning an article appeared in the Topeka Daily Capital. Love and light have filled the atmosphere.

To bask under the sunshine of the Confirmation of Abdul Baha is the deSire of Jenabe Fazel and to work for the Cause of humanity is his greatest longing. This was the last day of his winistry in this city but thse sweetness of spirit knows no space and time. The Topeka Daily Capital and Journal had nice articles about the Cause and the inhabitants of this city speak about the Persian teacher and Philosopher. At 3 p.m., a lecture was given before a goodly audience on the “fomen's Movement in Persia". The people really enjoyed it. It was something totally new and the life-story of Kurrat-Ul-Ayne was absorbingly interesting. Their eyes were opened to this wonderful self-sacrifice of the women of the East and their questions impressed one with their sincerity and earnestness, The talk

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was given at the Elks Club. In the morning a few Bahais called and had a fine meeting with Jenabe Fazel and were informed with many spiritual teachings of the Movement. At 8 p.m., the last meeting was in the Library of Washburn College on the subject of "Modern Education in Persia". One of the strange coincidences of this trip is to meet here an American who is the Executive of the Boy Scouts of America, whose name is "John H. Fazel". He is an Esperantist and his address is 100 East 6th St., Topeka, Kansas. He has been coming to all the meetings and thinks there must be some relationship between him and Jenabe Fazel. He has exchanged photos with him and likes to keep in touch with him. During our two days Stay here we mst many charming souls, all of whom are greatly attracted to the Cause. Mrs. eightman has been the embodiment of loveliness and hospitality:. and for the time being she laid aside all other concerns, entertaining her Persian guests. It is only the power of Eaha 'o'llah that has united the hearts of the people of the East and the West. Otherwise such union would have been impossible. May the lights of this love and amity, be diffused to all parts of the world! May Topeka become the land of liberality in religion and thought, and may truth be revealed in all its simplicity.

Hotel Kupper, Kansas City, Mo., Dec. 21st, 1920.

These are Christmas days and while the whole Christian world is engaged in giving gifts, Jenabe Fazel is hourly granting the gifts of the spirit of love, bestowed upon him by. Abdul Baha. If the gift brings with it love and the sweetness of memory it is beautiful. It is said by Pindar: "Every gift that is given, even though it be small, is in reality zreat, if it be given with affection". This morning Jenabe Fazel was taken by Mrs. Weightman to the station; one of her sweet friends took him in her car and the teacher bade them a loving Bahai farewell. He arrived in Kansas City, Missouri, about noon. Mrs. Slater of Chicago had already come ahead and engaged rooms in the above hotel. In the afternoon the Unitarian Minister called and arranged for two meetings to be delivered in his Church tomorrow. Later a reporter from the Star called and received an interview. The Evening Edition of the same paper contained an article with the photo of thse Teacher. In the evening Mr. M. VY. Albreth and Mrs. A. E. Flower dropped in and had a long talk with him, He spoke with them about Abdul Baha and how we mst keep our faith in the Cause away and beyond any personality. The rain falls upon all kinds of soil; Some produce good harvests, others only thorns and brambles. Now the fault is not in the rain but in the person. In the days of Christ, 12 Apostles believed in him, but one sold him for a few pieces of coin. Conseyuently we must have a sincovering eye; we must overlook the short-comings of others. God has not appointed us judges over his children. He has sent us for unity and not separation; for liberality and not bigot ry; for co-operation and not contention. In the Bahai Cause there is no hierarchy or ‘spiritual autocracy. There is a divine brotherhood, a celestial sisterhood; there is freedom of action and not compulsion. There is the law of live and let live. No combativeness, no acrimony, no bitter controversy. If two persons disagree over a matter both are wrong. Love, love, love, great heaven, more love, more tolerance, more appreciation, more forgiveness, more gen-~ tleness, more consideration, more light and sweetness, more politeness and genuine courtesy, otherwise all our talks will be empty boasts and tne hallucinations of a magnified ego.

Hotel Kupper, Kansas City, Mo., Dec. 22, 1920.

This if the home of Mrs. Handford Ford and we have met quite a number of people who know her and have heard of the Bahai Movement through her. The population is about 350,000, quite an industrial busy center in the heart of the United States. One would like to see the Bahai Cause well established hers and its prin

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. brim and running over. They drank deep from the Cup of KnoWledge, and having tast ~-10 Ciples widely promoted. The Kansas Times, Journal and Post had today articles about the Movement. In the afternoon a lecture was delivered in All Souls Church on the progress of Persian Women before the members of the Club. The Church was beautifully decorated for Christmas and the audience was highly pleased with the lecture of Jenabe Fazel. It was a good opening for the future, for these women became familiar with the name Bahai and the life of Kurrat-Uli-Ayne attracted them greatly. In the evening at 8 p.m., another talk was delivered in the same Chureh. Rev. L. M. Birkhead made a beautiful introduction about the unifying power of the Bahai Revelation, then Mr. Vail talked for a little while about his pilgrimage to Haifa, introducing Jenabe Fazel. The talk of our teacher was light and joy,union and love, harmony and concord -- very much in tune with the spirit of the Christmas season. Questions Were asked by the Minister and others and the spiritual answers Satisfied all. The Minister said: "He who knows only his own religion, knows none of the religions." His people are all broad minded and the Unitarian ideals agree perfectly with the Bahai principles. The Unitarians believe, 1. Fatherhood of God; 2. The Brotherhood of Man; 3. The Leadership of Christ;

4, Salvation by Character; 5. The Progress of Mankind Onward and Upward Forever. Again their motto is: Freedom, our method of Religion; 2. Reason, our guide in Religion; 3. Fellowship, our spirit of Religion; 4. Service, our aim in Religion; 5. Character, the test of our Religion. They teach: "Wherever the bad man is, he is in hell. Wherever the good man is, he is in heaven." They relate that a brother preacher said to Mr. Taylor, a Methodist Minister, about the Unitarian Emerson: "Do you not know that Mnerson is going to hell, why do you associate with him? Do you not know that he is a Unitarian?" "I suppose so," he replied, "out if Ewerson goes to hell, it will change the climate of the place, and turn the tide of emigration that way." Thus a lovely day was spent in Kansas City, surrounded with good friends and spiritual activities. Tomorrow morning Jenabe Fazel will leave for Denver to sing other lays, to raise the Call of the Kingdom of Abha amongst the new people.

‘One of the happy events of the last few weeks has been the return of Mrs. Helen ©. Goodall, Mrs. Ella Goodall Cooper and Mrs. Kathryn Frankland from their visit to the Holy Presence of Abdul Baha. These maid-servants are of the truly loyal firm ones in the Covenant. They have no other interest save service to the Cause of God, and no other aim save striving for attainment unto the good pleasure of the Lord. As such their receptivity was great and their cup was filled to the

ed the sweetness thereof, are longing always to be drinking therefrom themselves first, and thereby they are enabled to carry the Vater of Life to others. One of the sasis in the desert of life is a visit from these illumined souls. They have refreshed all who Were fortunate enough to meet them, and hear from them the sweet Story of attainment unto the Visit. Mrs. Cooper and Mrs. Frankland, one or the other or both, shared with the friends in New York and vicinity, Englewood, N. J., Philadelphia and Chicago, some of the heavenly instructions they had received as a Bounty from the Center of Life and Light.

These returning pilgrims bring fragrances of holiness to us for which we can never thank them sufficiently.

Miss Jessie Revell of Philadelphia wrote us particularly about the visit of Mrs. Frankland to that City; and Mrs. True sent us a loving report of the visit of these dear ones among the friends in Chicago. Both tell us the fragrance of these visits remain, and will continue to remain with them.

Mr. Malcolm McGillvary of Illinois, was another friend who returned the past month from a recent visit to the Holy Land, and as he also visited the friends in Germany enroute to this country, was able to share a very interesting account of existing conditions there.

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Miss Alma Xnobloch arrived in Yashington recently after a period. of service in Germany covering several years. A majority of the friends are informed about her very successful endeavors through the mighty Commendations in the Tablets of Abdul Baha. Her stay here is a great bounty, for she radiates strength and harmony, and her presence ixdicates a rare spiritual power. ‘Ye never can hear her tell often enough of the strength and bravery of the German believers, their attainment to a true knowledze of the Spiritual Message of the Kingdom, and their transforming this knowledge into the daily living. She has brought to us one of the most refreshing stories of "firmmess in faith" which has ever been told.

Mr, Chas. Mason Remey has recently left Germany for Haifa. Mr. Will Remey of Yashington, Mr. and Mrs. Mountfort Mills of New York, Mrs. Arna True Perron, Dr. Appel and Mrs. Houser of Chicago, all sailed January 5th from New York for the Holy Land.

_ A report from Miss Jessie Revell telis us of the wonderfully Spiritual Feast of the friends held on the 3lst of December in Philadelphia. "The dawn of the New Year found all those who remained in silent prayer" Miss Revell tells us. Since we are told that "Prayer is the ladder by wich we mount to the nearness of GOD" -- who can tell what may result from such a meeting of intense spiritual yearning!

Miss Revell also tells us of another meeting in Philadelphia on January end, when Mr. Roy Yilliams of VYashington proclaimed the Message before an audience of about four thousand. She writes:

"It was a meeting held in the Olympia Theatre and was called ‘Liberty Emancipation Celebration’. The President gave Mr. Williams a very important place on the program though no previous arrangement had been made for a Bahai speaker. Mr. Villiams spoke about the Love of God and about Abdul Baha and the Center of the Covenant with so much force that a prominent speaker following him on the program changed what would have-been his address and quoted from the talk which had just been given by Mr. Villiams. "e feel that the Divine Confirmations descended and the Power of the Covenant changed the whole meetinz... It Was a meeting long™ to be. remembered."

Mr. Louis G. Gregory has been travelling through the fouth for several weeks. A report of his spiritual endeavors follows:

"I have thru Divine Favor, visited several Cities since my last report to you.

"Nashville, the capital of Tennessee, is a college town and is known as the Athens of the South, There are so many well educated people of both races among its inhabitants, that many of the difficulties of other comminities are avoided.

"Fisk University as a whole, and in various groups, gave a hearing to Several Bahai talks. Altho there is opposition on the part of some members of the faculty, the attraction of others and of the student body is unmistakable. Walden and Roger WVilliams Universities, Meharry Medical College, the City High and the Knowles public school, the Congregational church and two Tomen's Clubs, besides various individuals, also listened attentively. The ftate fuperintendent of Education with his assistant, vas present at one of two addresses delivered at the State Normal School, and expressed approval of the Bahai ideals of inter-racial cooperation and accord. There are many souls ready to advance in this Southern City. |

"Three churches, three theatres and the City High and Night Schools gave audiences in Chattanooga. Mr. and Mrs. James M. Bynes had a group meeting at their home. These souls have unusual capacity. Mr. Bynes is the recipient of a beautiful Tablet from Abdul Baha, He is directed to make a journey through the Southern States to deliver the Message.

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"During a few days in Atlanta, the Bahai Assembly gave support in the effort to attract souls. The meeting was held in the home of Mr. and Mrs. C. P. Williams. The children recited verses from the Yidden fords, and among the Speakers were Dr, Oakshette, among the first of American believers, and Mr. J. Elmore Hays, Mrs. Cummings and Mr. Williams, All of these are teachers, which indicates that the Assembly has a bright future. |

"In Augusta, Ga., too, the Assembly cooperated with good results. Miss Klebs, Miss Julia Moore and Mrs, Talbott, by their presence at a notable meeting held at Hains Institute, aroused interest and astonishment. To understand this, one must understand the intensity of racial feeling in Georgia. . . . Many remarks were heard in praise of the Bahai Movement. Addresses were delivered in Paine College, lalker Baptist Academy, Hains Institute, two Baptist churches and a Methodist Church. Most notable was the comment of the pastor of Vesly, A.M.E. Church.

"'T have looked into the Bahai Movement' he said to his congregation, ‘and it is something that must succeed; one religion for the whole world must come to pass. If we had more religion and more sense, we would be ready to embrace it at once. But reforms that are permanent must come about gradually. The mushroom grows up in a night and perishes the next day. As the Bahai Movement has the elements of permanency, it must slowly spread. I am very happy to know of the work that Brother Gregory is doing. He is always welcome in my church and I will arrange for him to speak.'"

Mr. Gregory will continue his travels through the South stopping at Charleston, £&. C., and other Cities.

Mr. Oglesby of Boston is planning to speak on Sunday evenings in many churches of the colored people in and around Boston, and Mr. Randall will each time assist in speaking from the same platform whenever it is possible for him to be present. |

One notable activity in Boston which promises well is the establishment of "The Japan Society of Boston". Mr, “im. H, Randall was on the Executive Committee appointed to establish this Society and later at a large gathering, he was elected Treasurer. In associating himself in this Society with many prominent and influential people of Boston, we see that Mr. Randall has opened a door of effective service. In the meetings of this Society, Mr. Randall has already had opportunity to emphasize the importance of a finer feeling between all the Nations of the world and he has suggested that this Society might grow in time into a Society of all the Nations. It Was so favorably received that it was decided now to include in this Society the Koreans, Chinese and Oriental nations. In commenting on this work, Mr. Randall said: "My real object in giving attention to this Society is entirely from the standpoint of unity." An earnest endeavor in this field of service will help toward the establishment of a real and lasting friendship between the United States and Japan.

A report from the San Quentin Fellowship through Mr. J. E. Gilligan, has been somewhat delayed in the sharing, but it is worthy of record.

Mr. Gilligan reports as follows:

"A Sunday a few @eeks ago chanced to be stormy and disagreeable in the prison yard and this accounted for the unusual crowd of more than 200 prisoners in addition to the 27 regular members at the meeting of the San Quentin Bahai Fellowship class; but altho it was the weather that drove them into our Assembly Hall to hear -- for the first time in their lives a discussion of the Bahai philosophy, yet they remained eager listeners during the entire meeting of more than two hours, and expressed regret that the approach of dinner compelied us to adjourn.

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[Page 13]-13 "After adjournment 52 handed in their names for membership, while many Others asked for literature, which, thanks te the kindness of our Bahai brothers end sisters in the outer world, we were able to supply.

"Our subject was the significance of the proposed Bahai Temple, the Mashrakol-Azkar, and excerpts were read by our recording secretary, Don. C.Graney, from the treatise by Louise R. Yaite on the symbolic and numerical significance of its design and name,

"That our influence as a Bahai Center is deing felt outside our own immediate circle is evidenced by the fact that a Mrs. Swan from the Northern part of California, while visiting relatives employed at the prison, learned for the first time of the Bahai Revelation, and borrowed from our library several books on the Subject, with the result that she expressed a determination, on returning to her home, of procuring Bahai literature and establishing a Center there.

"A spark of interest has also manifested itself amongst the young people in the families of the employees of this institution, which the members of our class are seeking to fan into a flame. Thus it is evident that tho we are shut away from the activities of the outer world, yet the Blessed Perfection is indicating a channel thru which the pure waters of conscientious effort in serving the Greatest Cause, may flow from our little center, so we may contribute our quota to the ever increasing flood that is destined to wash away the iniquities of the world and purge the soul of humanity of every undesirable thought."

Mrs. Juliet D. Sherman of Asbury Park, N. J., has sent us an account of Some recent activities in that city. Mrs. Sherman and her sister, Mrs. Durand, are striving with all heart and soul that the seeds of the Blessed Truth shall be som, and they are doing much preparatory work, hoping that sometime in the future Jenabe Fazel may visit this Center.

Mrs. Lincoln of Brooklyn addressed a fine gathering of friends whom Mrs. Sherman had invited to meet her. It Was a beautiful meeting and all hearts were happy and responsive, Another notable gathering in Asbury Park was a large company of friends invited to meet Mrs. Florian Krug of New York. She told her audience of her wonderful visit to Haifa to see Abdul Baha. Mrs. Sherman writes in a glowing manner of this talk by Mrs. Krug, and adds: "Really this dear sister is more than inspired. She radiates joy and happiness, and all who listened to her, came away filled with light and love, and with great joy in their hearts."

It would be an effective teaching service if Mrs. Krug could visit every Assembly in America carrying this joy of the Kingdom to all hearts.

Mr. F. G. Hale of the Jersey City, N. J. Assembly tells us of the good work being accomplished in that Center. The friends there meet at the home of Mrs. M. C. Moore every Monday evening (442 Fairmount 4ve.) and have regular lessons on the Hidden Words, memorizing them "one by one", All have taken such an interest in the plan that not one has failed on the lessons, and all have nov committed to memory, over one-third of the Hidden Yords. nother plan in this Assembly which has seemed to awaken an unusual interest is that each member gives a five to ten minute talk on the twelve Principles as revealed by Abdul Baha. Mrs. Moore also . reads from the Ighan and there is regular study on this also. From these endeavors and earnest striving for knowledge, the growth to the individual members of the Assembly has been wonderful; and quite orth while souls are being attracted: one a Greek Professor was to give a talk on the Fourth Principle. Mr. Hale adds: "We are not a large Assembly, but all are firm in the Center of the Covenant and true."

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"The Covenant is most important -- nothing is as important -- because it is the magnet of confirmations." Abdul Baha,

[Page 14]-14 Motner Beecher has beer deing very good work in Detroit; and in Cleve- . land for a few days; and for severwl weeks in Louisville, Ky., where she is at present. The friends in these Cit.éS have written in a most appreciative way of her services, and all feel she is a blessing wherever she goes. Dr. Stiles of Detroit wrote that every one had taken on uew life and had a better understanding of the Teachings. Mother Beecher is one of the travelling teachers, but unlike — others, her particular work is to stay for several wesks in one place. Her efforts are much appreciated in every Center where she has been.

Mrs. Laura Luther of ‘lashington has joined Miss Marion Jack at Vancouver, B. C. She is doing wonderful educational work with those who have just glimpsed the Glorious Cause. "She is indeed fine", as Miss Jack write us. Both Miss Jack and Mrs, Luther ere working faithfully and effectively preparing the way ior a successful program and wonderful visit for the great teacher, Jenabe Fazel.

Mrs. Emogene Hoagg and Mrs. Georgie Ralston are in Naples, Italy. Miss Julia Culver is in Paris. A wonderful report has cone from Miss Fannie Xnobloch from Cape Town, S. Africa, which vill be shared soon. She is meeting with great success, Mrs, Claudia Coles is in London where she is doing effective work. Miss Rosenberg has written us about how Mrs. Coles fits into the life there, and how doors heve opened very wide for her. She is busy se-ving day and night, interesting strangers and attending the Bahai meetings. .1 more detailed account of her stay in London will be forthcoming later.

It is impossible to get all the news into one Bulletin these days for reports are coming from every section. Another Bulletin will follow this one in afew days, and we will try and include all general reports to date in this next Number. A great many of the friends are stepping inte the arena of active service. It is the day of the Proclamation of the Kingdem, and all are summoned, ali have received the call to teach. Ina letter from Mr. Randall, he says:

"To promote these activities without leadership, to become trustvorthy with evanescence, to direct affairs with humility in the love of the Center of the Covenant, is the secret of Bahai service."

Among the Press articles of the past month have been a very splendid account of the Temple work and the Bourgeois model in the Pasadena Star-News; also a fine article written by Mr. Alfred E. Lunt appeared in the Springfield Sunday Republican, a very liberal paper of large circulation. Mr. Lunt's article zas entitled "If Peace is to Come. Necessity of a balance vheel for Nationalism -Religious Spirit Essential."

Many letters recently, indicate that a deep realization has come to the friends generally that it is necessary to direct a tremendous energy toward the building of the Temple. The following Yords of Abdul Baha encourage.us on. our way:

"The Temple that is going to be erected in the United States will be an important and magnificent one; its influence and reaction upon the Cause will be tremendous, and the impetus it shall give to the Movement irresistible."

Respectfully and lovingly submitted, The Teaching Committee of Nineteen, By Mariam Haney, Secretary. The Mendota, Yashington, D. C. January 1921.