National Teaching Committee Bulletins/1922/October 16/Text
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"Verily, he who is overcome by the attraction of the Love of My NAME, the Merciful, will assuredly read the VERSES OF GOD in such wise as to charm the hearts of those who are asleep. —
"Live among the people a life that will manifest Signs of GOD."
Baha'o'llah,
"Today the Lord of Hosts is the Defender of the Covenant, the Forces of the Kingdom protect It, heavenly souls tender their services, and heavenly angels promulgate and spread It broadcast. If it is considered with insight, it will de seen that all the forces of the MOINS SE in the last analysis serve the Covenant."
Abdul Baha,
"The friends in America should now all arise to spread His Message, that He (Abdul Baha) might rest assured from His Blessed Kingdom, of the fidelity of His loved ones." Baheyyah (Greatest Holy Leaf).
BULLETIN — Issued by Bahai National Teaching Committee October 16, 1922.
So many inquiries have come regarding the probable visit of Jenabe Fazel to this country, that it is thought best to supply what news we have at hand regarding our revered teacher.
From a letter from Mirza Ahmad Sohrab, we quote the following:
"T have received a long letter from Jenabe Fazel in which he states the strong probability of his approaching return to the United States. He will bring his wife and son and will make a much longer stay, and will visit all those parts which he was unable to do on his first tour. ........ .-- From now-on all the friends, throughout the United States and Canada snould be preparing for the reception of Jenabe Fazel. .,...... Prepare the way, and put themselves in contact with outside churches and societies and clubs. If, on his first visit, the results were so remarkable; on his second visit, they must be a hundred times more. Preparation is of infinite importance." ...........
The National Spiritual Assembly at its recent meeting held in New York in September cabled an official invitation to Jenabe Fazel to visit this country, the reply to which stated that the trip would be delayed until Shoghi Effendi's return to Haifa. As this time is not known by any one, therefore, the time for the coming of Jenabe Fazel to this country is indefinite. However, it is of the greatest importance that preparations should be in operation continually for the coming great events in the Cause which will revolve around the brilliant services of the spiritually renowmed Jenabe Fazel whenever God wills that he shall serve amongst us.
"The question of supreme importance centers around the promulgation of the Divine Teachings." Abdul Baha.
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A distinmuished official once said: "We must remember that there is a
Western Coast to the United States as well as the Fastern." We are reminded of
this observation as we read the wealth of communications from the Pacific Coast.
It surely looks as if this section -- from the Rahai viewpoint -- is to be exceedingly prominent and before the public eye generally, because of an extraordinary heralding of the Message. The Bahai friends are "exerting themselves" as Abdul Baha instructed, and to such an extent that we realize the Merciful Cales of the Infinite are ever blowing over that favored part of our land. Under the heading of THE TEACHING CAMPAIGN IN THE WEST, the Western States Regional Committee, by Ella G. Cooper, Chairman, have sent out an announcement of a Teaching Convention for the Western Region to be held in San Francisco, Nov. 24th to 26th inclusive. This section as defined in the Divine Plan -comprises eleven states, namely: New Mexico, Colorado, Arizona, Nevada, California, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, Oregon, Washington and Utah. It is certain that if a delegation is sent from each Center, there will be a large and enthusiastic gathering of the friends. The morning and evening sessions of the Convention are to be devoted to a discussion of the various activities and problems of the Cause. Lectures will be given at the night sessions so that the general public may be invited to listen to the Universal Principles and the Message of Truth for this New Day. The Los Angeles Assembly are intensely active and are stirring the whole of Southern Califormia, The Secretary, Ahmad Sohrab, is indefatigable in his efforts to inform every one of the friends on all of the important aims and objects of this Conference. Some twenty-five or thirty have expressed their intention of going from Southern California. Just a few items from one of Ahmad's letters will bring us closer to the ideals of these striving friends:
"The delegates and friends are requested to bring to the Conference a fresh outlook, a universal viewpoint, a dynamic energy, a constructive spirit, a forward-looking concept, a whole-hearted desire for coopération, and a practical plan for the promotion of the Bahai Principles in the above states.......... The Western section is an empire with a population of more than seven millions, and if we are the faithful custodians of the Bahai Ideals, we must see to it that this growing industrial and progressive part of the United States is internenetrated with the Glorious Teachings of Peace, Brotherhood, Tolerance and Mutual UnderStanding -- the essence of the Bahai Cause."
They have surely prepared long enough in advance for this important Teaching Conference, to insure its success, and also to make it possible for every delegate to serve intelligently by being well informed and able to discuss all the points to be taken up at the various sessions.
‘The Local Teaching Committee for Scuthern California are ever planning a big work for that section, and they hope to be able during the coming months to send teachers regularly, perhaps once or twice a month, to every Center.
Among the noteworthy activities in and around Los Angeles recently in connection with the promulgation of the Divine Teachings may be mentioned the following:
A program has come to our attention, the headlines of which read: "The Bahai Assembly of Los Angeles Presents the First of a Series of Musical Evenings" and the card invitation reads: "Musicale, To Assist the Promotion of Universal Peace and International Amity, Auspices of the Bahai Movement, at the home of Mr. and Mrs. A. C. Platt."
This Musicale was a complete and perfect.success; the proceeds were for the Teaching Fund. The friends are planning to have some kind of an entertainment once a month, proceeds to be devoted to the Temple and Teaching Funds.
Another service of great interest is Ahmad's successful talk thru
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Bullock's Dept. Store Broadcasting Station. In this way the Message was carried through the air to thousands of listeners, even hundreds of miles away. He was permitted to speak fifteen minutes on "Constantinople, the Meeting-ground of the East and the West." In this talk he introduced the Message and the Teachings.
On the 9th of October, Ahmad spoke before the Theosophical Society of Los Angeles on the "Coming of the World Master."
There are ever so many meetings arranged every week in Los Angeles and _ the adjacent Civies of Pasadena and Glendale, mean public and private, and some are for the intensive study of the Teachings.
Altogether the reports from this section are refreshing, encouraging and
sisal ee ae It is certain that the Instructions of Abdul Baha are being read,
studied and put into practice; indeed there is a wonderful arising to obedience to the Divine Commands, and the confirmations from the Kingdom of ABHA always pour down upon such worthy and genuine endeavors.
"Exert effort in teaching and if blessed souls undertake to travel through all the States of America, complete and thorough confirmations from the Kingdom of ABHA shall be witnessed by them, so much so that they shall be bewildered. Verily, this is an exceedingly momentous question." Abdul Baha,
A FEW WORDS FROM DUBLIN
We have been imploring Mrs. Parsons, the beloved daughter of Abdul Baha, to give us a few items about the progress of the work in and around the charming section of the country where she abides in the summer time. She has graciously contributed the following:
"When one considers the various distractions of Dublin in the summer season, I think that I have what might be called ‘good news' for the Bulletin.
"The Rahai work has been done-very quietly, for Mr. Vail is the only speaker who came, and there was but time to notify a few people of his unexpected visit of a day, waich, happily, he made on his way West, coming here from Green Acre with me on. .my vebura from there.
"Pwo small groups listened to him -- one in the afternoon, the other in the evening, and, as is usual with Mr. Vail, he caused the hearts to respond to the Message, and watered seed that had been planted earlier, first by Abdul Baha, and later by Jenabe Fazel and other friends. .......-.20%
- “One earnest woman, who had been quickened at the time of the Visit of Abdul Baha, has become confirmed this summer. Another who, at one time, had been antagonized, is now drawn to the Teachings and wishes to know them better. Still another, who had practically no faith, heard the Message for the first time this summer, learned to care for It, and has tried to explain it to her daughter and her son-in-law, They live near Boston, so witnout permission from Mr. Randall, I have offered his services, always so gladly. given, in aid of the son-in-law.
"Two Clergymen have listened with politeness to the Message -- one of them with a deeper feeling.
"But the news that makes me “very happy is this: A woman with trained mind and voice -- and I may add heart -- has become interested in halping to make a better understanding between the races, and is going to read before groups of people in different Cities some of the poems of Claude McKay and others.
"A noted French Scientist who met 4bdul Baha in Paris and was impressed by His ‘illumined face', has heard here truths about the Cause that he did not know before. That he is not now attracted does. not discourage, for sometime he ‘may remember'. :
"This man insists that our Teaching is pantheistic. We must be careful,
in our work, to guard against such an impression, and I think it would be very
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helpful if those having definite instruction from the Teachings, against this error,
would send to Mrs. Haney excerpts upon tnis matter. Of course we all kmow the
Chapter on 'Pantheism' which is to be found in 'Some Answered Questions', and I
dave the following contribution from the-'Words of Paradise!:
"'Those souls (Mystic Sufis) have affirmed concerning the stages of ‘Divine Unity' that which is the greatest cause of addicting people to idleness and superstition. ‘They have, indeed, removed the distinction, and. imagined themselves to be God. The True One is sanctified above all; (but) His Signs are manifest in
all things. ‘The Signs are from Him not He-Himself, and all of them are recorded and visible in the volume of the world.'
"Tf the students and teachers of the Cause would send to Mrs. Haney, to be brought out in the Bulletin, a description of the methods they have used with success in explanation of certain difficult points, and also give the points which they feel that they have not covered satisfactorily, there would be established an "Exchange Bureau' on Teaching which would have great value for us all.
"I hoped that we might have at Dublin a 'Swan Song' to close the season, and that Mr. and Mrs. Randall would be able to rum up from Boston and sing a spirit ual melody before the flight to town, but other work has prevented them from coming.
"I do not wish to close this brief account of summer happenings without adding my testimony to that of the many others who were refreshed and stimulated by a stay at Green Acre. The pretty furnishings of the Hotel, the smart little ‘Tea House'; the grounds in process of becoming most attractive, speak of earnest thought and service. But it is the things one cannot see with physical eve -- the steadfast working out of a spiritual ideal such as has never before been attempted in America and is a reflection of its perfect expression in the town of Haifa, -it is things like this that carry the true blessing to the visitor. Were it not for that sacred model in Palestine ani the power to hold the vision by which Green Acre's faithful workers are endowed, the difficulties would overwhelm."
"Through UNIFIED ERFORT and PURENESS OF PURPOSE, noble things will be established in this needy world.' Baheyyah (Greatest Holy Leaf).
PHILADELPHIA MEETINGS
Miss Jessie Revell, Secretary of the Assembly in Philadelphia, gives us some teaching news which indicates that doors of service are being continually opened for our beloved teacher, Mrs. Brittingham. Miss Revell's report follows:
"At a recent Sunday evening meeting, our loved Mrs. Brittingham spoke the second time, by invitation, at the Church of Divine Inspiration. Her subject was 'The Divine Springtime’. after Mrs. Brittingbam's address, Julia Culver, who came to Philadelphia to visit Mrs. Brittingham before sailing for Haifa, spoxe a little about her last visit to Abdul Baha. This was a very beautiful meeting from the beginning to the end and already the effect of it is evident, because several have made further investigations into the Teachings.
"Sunday morning service on Sept. 24th, Dr. Robert Russell of the First Association of Spiritualists arranged for Mrs. Brittingham to speak in his Church. Her subject there was 'The New World Consciousness.' The audience was full of brilliant minds with large capacities for the truth. The silence and deep spiritual reverence while Mrs. Brittingham spoke was very marked. Dr. Russell summed up this most beautiful address in five points which he quoted word for word from the address as given, and he told his congregation to take them home with them and thinx about them, and they had enough to last them through all eternity.
. "On September 28th, it was arranged that Mrs. Brittingham speak before
the Colored Branch of the Y.M.C.A. Her subject here was 'Cooperation from the
Bahai Standpoint'. This audience was composed of very wide awake, energetic voung
men and quite a few women. It was a splendid gathering. At the close of this meet[Page 5]
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ing, many expressed the desire to know more and investigate further, and we know
that the seed sown here will bear fruit.
"Monday evening, Sept. 25th, we had a most beautiful meeting at the home of the Revells, 2531 N. 19th St. The indescribable joy of having three members of the National Spiritual Assembly with us, was ours. These three: Mrs. Ella Cooper, Mrs. Corinne True and Mr. Chas. Mason Remey, were on their homeward journey, after having attended one of their meetings in New York City. Miss Katherine True was also there, and it was perfectly heavenly to hear all of these four dear ones tell various things in connection with the Cause and in connection with their visits to Abdul Baha, and now in connection with our Blessed Guardian, Shoghi Effendi. It was a very wonderful spiritual meeting, one which will never be forgotten."
"The Treasure-houses of GOD are filled with Bounties. The GOD who showed Favor unto others, will certainly show favor unto you. ........ I am with you when you turn unto GOD and are attracted to the Fragrances of GOD." Abdul Baha.
NEWS FROM TEXAS
"Grasp therefore the present opportunity for a wonderful ‘capacity for the hearing of Divine Teachings has been manifested among men." Thus did Abdul Baha inform and instruct us. Ever and ever do we see the fulfillment of these Words on all sides. When reports come from the State of Texas, we realize how the vounties and confirmations jescend uninterruptedly upon those souls who, "armed with the Power of the Covenant", have gone forth with singleness of purpose and purity of intention to be a "proclaiming voice" for the Love of the Merciful, the love of His Cause and the love of humanity in these great days. There seem to be ever present thirsty and hungry souls who are fully prepared to receive the Message of real Life and have only been waiting for the "spirit's breath to illumine them."
Mrs. Clara H. Sharp writes of her very beautiful personal experiences with illumined souls, especially Mrs. Nichols, mother of the American Consul's wife at Bahia. This blessed soul has opened her home, established a circulating library for her friends, and already the Message has yacnet as far as New Orleans from this home.
Mrs. Sharp speaks glowingly of the work z Mrs. Fosselman at Del Rio and other Cities, and adds: "She has a very patient and loving way in presenting the Message. Indeed she has been a spiritual lamp to Del Rio."
Mrs. Fosselman's report is immensely inspiring. We all feel that these blessed sisters have been raised up for the great work of seed-sowing in this section of the country. Both seem to kmow how, in a ioving, winning harmonious way, to meet all the inquirers with prejudices. They have the "sweetness of speech" which we have been told is so necessary.
Mrs. Fosselman, Mrs. Sharp and Miss Adelaid Sharp all attended the Teacher's Convention held in San Antonio, where over two thousand teachers were present. Here there was a fine opportunity for service and a great many in attendance, as well as book agents listened to the Message for the first time. Expressions of approval were heard on all sides, and as Mrs. Fosselman said in her report: "Never have I given the Message to any one who seemed to be more profoundly grateful or who received it more respectfully than these pecple, all of whom were well educated men and women."
In Austin, Texas, Mrs. Fosselman's sister, Miss Ann Reinke, makes her
home a center for Bahai activities, and many young people go out from this home attracted, and determined to travel further on the Right Path. A recent precious
experience was told concerning a charming and cultured Mexican, a medical student
of rare intelligence, who accepted an invitation to a dance at Miss Reinkxe's, but,
who, vihen the time came, danced not at all, but stood before the Greatest Name,
and earnestly and longirfely sought knowledge of the "Light of the World."
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There is absolutely nothing in this world which lifts a threatening gloom or dissipates discouragement as quickly as to receive reports from the beloved servers in Texas and elsewhere and then share the glorious news with others. To spread this most Glorious Message which is "conducive to amity among all denominations and races that dwell on the earth" -- this is the WORK.
A Bahai Gathering at Cazenovia.
One of the noteworthy "get together" meetings of ‘the late summer was one arranged by Mrs. R. F-H, Ledyard at her summer home. Friends from Ithaca, Syracuse and Cazenovia gathered for a very memorable material and spiritual feast. Mr. McDaniel, by request, has given us a glimpse of the sweet hours of spiritual communion which the Bahais know how to have a the Revealed Words. Mr. McDaniel said in part:
"All of the friends first partook of a delicious material feast spread out on a great rustic table overlooking Lake Cazenovia. . Later a most inspiring spiritual meeting was held under the spreading branches of one of God's first temples. Mr. Howard Ives spoke feelingly of the beautiful significance of the meeting and of the practical importance of gathering the friends together in loving unity. Mrs. Ledyard paid a glowing tribute to the spiritual work of Mr. Remey in Northern New York State; a work which made such a gathering possible.......
_ “A lovely feature of the meeting was the presence of the Burlingham family from Syracuse, including three lovely children. This family have become interested in the Cause through the glorious services of Mr. and Mrs. Ives.
"As the setting sun approached the rim of the western hills, the friends departed for their various homes. Each one seemed to feel. and express by look and word the spirit of Abdul Baha, which had so generously blessed the meeting."
Mrs. Howard Ives adds another loving note of appreciation of this important gathering: important, because there went forth from this gathering 2 group of radiant souls, refresied, and with hopes and aspirations renewed. Mrs. Tves writes in part as “ollovws:
“Mrs. Ledyard's beautiful idea was to gather ‘scgiiee the friends and interested ones in this part of the State; and a wonderfully dear eroup assembled, happy to be together in the spirit of Abdul Baha. Mrs. Ledyard was exquisite and filled with the love of Abdul Raha. It was her hope that this might be the beginning of great yearly gatherings among the friends in this locality and the cause of attraction to the hearts. Several beautiful talks were given, ....+.+.-. Mr. Ives came back from Rochester for the occasion, and Mr. McDaniel -- though quite ill -- was there, and spoke very wonderfvlly."
Mrs, Ives also graciously reports abcut the work in other parts, and particularly refers to the many splendid meetings held in Syracuse with various groups of new souls. At one of these meetings the attraction was so great that they all stayed until one in the momming. The Beloved was there! And Mrs. Ives, adds: "Mrs. Burlingham, of whom I have written, is a flame, and I long for her to
meet some or the heavenly friends. ........- ‘Mr. Ives has been invited to speak at the Kiwanis Club and the Universalist Church in Rechnester. ..,..... In every
City Abdul Baha seems to raise up some sincere and zealous soul who becomes filled _with a desire to help us spread the Glad-tidings." .......+..-.
"Whenever an illumined gathering of the friends of GOD is instituted, Abdul Baha, although bodily absent, is yet present in spirit and in soul." Abdul Baha.
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PREPARING THE WAY IN FLORIDA “ ae very enthusiastic letter from Mrs, Frances M. Guy of St. Augustine, la., gives us the good news of plans for furthering the great work of the Cause in that State. Dr. and Mrs. Guy have surely rendered a very glorious and noteworthy Service in that section of the country for the past three years or more, and are truly distinguished pioneers in the shining pathway of sacrificial endeavors. To have voluntarily left home, (their home was in Boston) practice, business, friends and all else and settled in the Southland among strangers to start life all over again from the standpoint of material measurements -- all for the sole purpose of promil gating the Cause and holding aloft the Bahai Ideals, is indeed indicative of STEELY and purity of purpose in the Path of the Loving Lord. An excerpt from Mrs, Says Laster Will give us a glimpse of their hopes for the near future: +++..-.lie are thinking of inviting as many of the Florida believers as may be able to come here for a little conference on ways and means for spreading the Cause in Florida. We hope to hold this Conference around the Feast (or Commemoration) of Baha*to'llah's Day, November leth, the date when we have always opened our work here in the South". ‘Then Mz=s. Guy emumerates some of the objects of the Conference, namely, plans for the reception of teachers; amity between the races; how ee how to spread the Message -- the Mashrak-el-Azkar -- Spiritual healing This is a great dig forward movement in Florida, and Dr. and Mrs. Guy will surely have the prayers and loving thoughts of the entire Bahai Family for the Success of this great service. Ever so many accredited teachers and visitors have served in Florida in the different Cities and at different times throughout several years: Mr. Remey, Mr. Gregory, Miss Margaret Klebs, Mr. Vail (who has only traveled in a limited way in that section), Mr. Hannen and Mr. Haney, Miss Cora Gra eco Krug, Mr. MacNutt, Mr. Roy Williams, Mr. Cobb, Mr. and Mrs. Ripley, meee Bh lan and others have been among those who have served. In the State of Florida, particularly, there are a few radiant groups who have been serving faithfully in their particular Centers: Mr. and Mrs. Atwater in Miami, Dr. and Mrs. Guy in St. Augustine, Mr. James Stone and the faithful, devoted, spiritual group in Fernandina, Mrs. Lane in Lakeland, and others from time to time, have been doing a remarkable work from which there will be a great harvest some day. There are many reasons why it is not an easy path to travel in that — State; yet again it is one of the most wonderful fields of service during the winter season, The Message has been given to tourists who have in turn carried it far and wide. And now that Dr. and Mrs. Guy are preparing for a Conference to discuss plans for the future work in the State, we may expect to have most wonderful reports in the future, for there can be no doubt that confirmations will reach them.
"The lights of the oneness of the world of humanity are scintillating like unto precious jewels; scatter their rays to all parts! Upraise ye the banner of unity, fraternity, cooperation and reciprocity amongst all the people; so that there may not be left from prejudice aught save a name, and from ignorance not even ja. snadow.4..5.0" Abdul Baha.
A CONVENTION OF NOTE
The 26th Annual Convention of the Naturopathic Association of America
was held at the New Willard Hotel in Washington, D. C., last week. Hundreds of
physicians belonging to this organization and those closely allied with them were
in attendance, and they came from every State in America. Representatives were
also present from Europe, South America and South Africa. Arrangements for this
great gathering were under the direction of Dr. Elizabeth Riley and Dr. J. S. Riley.
Men of scientific lmnowledge and experience lectured to thousands during the davs
of the Convention on the most vital subjects relating to healing without drugs.
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Many Bahais were in attendance. Brotherly love, harmony and a spirit of cooperation characterized every meeting. Eehai congratulations and the most vital Principles of the Cause were given to the delegates and the visitors by our good vrother, Dr. A. Warsaw, himself a Naturopath. Dr. Lust, President of the Association responded heartily, expressing in words of love some of the blessings which have come to humanity through the Bahai Teachings.
Dr. and Mrs. Warsaw, formerly of Brooklyn, are now residing in Washington. They are eminent musicians, and the friends in Washington are indeed grateful that their footsteps were guided in this direction. They are contributing glorious services nereabouts; in beautiful melodies; in words of praise and glory to Abdul Baha for His Bounties; and also in deeds, thereby to manifest their thankful attitude.
NEWS ITEMS FROM NEAR AND FAR
Miss Julia Culver sailed a few weeks since for Switzerland and France, were she will continue her Bahai services. We will recall that Abdul Raha instructed Miss Culver to work in France and Switzerland with Miss Fdith Sanderson. Miss Culver made a splendid beginning there last vear, prior to her visit to this country. She has accomplished a very big pioneer work in Geneva where she was located for some time. One of the most interesting and interested adherents of the Cause there is Dr. Edmond Privot, Vice President of the International Esperanto Society and President of the Geneva Society, also one of the Editors of the International Esperanto Magazine. He received the Message from Miss Agnes Alexander. Lady Rlomfield has often spoken in Switzerland, likewise Miss Sanderson has spent much time there, and M, and Mme. Dreyfus-Rarney have at different times contributed their services in that field. As Miss Culver will now doubtless reside there for several months at a time, she will be able to water the seeds already sown as well as interesting new souls. A few excerpts from a recent letter of our dear Julia Culver, will be of interest:
"I find opportunities for giving the Message wherever I go. People seem more and more ready to listen. Going over on the steamer I talked with a very beautiful young woman wno accepted the Blessed Message with great eagerness. She really is a Bahai already, -- thoughtthese Principles out for herself and has xeenly felt the NEED of the hour ...... her husband feels as she does. She will be in London for a few months; on her return to the United States will live in Cleveland, and she hopes to be in association with the friends there."
Miss Culver's letters are full of the joy of living, because always rving. And this is the keynote in almost every letter received from the
¢ risnds everywhere.
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Mr. Albert R. Vail will continue as Editor-in-Chief of the Star of the West; but it is hoped he will be able to make some short teaching tours in the vicinity of Chicago.
Mr. Louis G. Gregory visited Washington for several days after leaving Green Acre, and gave two public addresses while here: one on "The Underlying Unity of all Religions"; and the second on "Procfs of Immortality of the Soul".
He is at present serving in and around Boston where he will remain until Mrs. Gregory sails for Iingland later in the month. A teaching tour through the South will be Mr. Gregory's program for the coming months.
Mrs. Valeria Kelsey has returned to the East after an absence of several
months in Portland, Oregon. In one of her letters, she writes: "Our stav in Portland was a delisht. There were many opportunities to serve the Cause, and the
friends there are aflame with love and the spirit of service...... ae 15 9a) -80
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wonderful to meet that pure love of the spivit which flows from the hearts of the Bahais. Such love surely is a token of the Covenant."
Mr. and Mrs. Roy Williams are permanently located in New York, and we hear that Mr. Williams is very busy helping the friends in Harlem. He has had Opportunities to address different groups several nights a week.
Mrs. Florence C. Olds of Omaha, Neb., who is "always serving", and who had rendered in the past such noteworthy services in the Cause, preparing the way for the blessed teachers who have visited there, is wondering WHEN oh when! another teacher, like Mr. Vail or Mr. Gregory will pass that way! The problems are many and varied in the pioneer work in a big western City, but surely Mrs. Olds, in her radiant, earnest endeavors must make the Heart of Abdul Baha glad. An excerpt from her letter is such a sweet message for the heart of each one of us, that it is herewith recorded: )
"If I should ever get to the point where I would never become discouraged-particularly with myself -- I should be ready to die of happiness. Encouragement comes in this way: If I keep quietly happy, speak pleasantly, smile, never find fault, but follow Abdul Baha's Instructions on Teaching -- with myself first -- the Teaching has effect upon all around me, unconsciously, and the result is absolutely astonishing. We are working patiently for the perfect days."
A report from Mr. Austin F. Collin of Vancouver, B. C., fills us with joy for it contains the story we love most to hear, namely -- news of the spread of the Cause. He tells us of the regular meetings established bv this new and growing Assembly, of at least eight books which have been added to the shelves of the Carnegie Library and of three stores which are selling our books. The friends will be glad to have the following message from Mr. Collin, thus to bring this dear Assembly in close touch with the Rahai Family:
"T have received many beautiful letters from different Asserblies and they are a great joy. Ahnad Schrabd is a faithful correspondent and fills me with the longing to serve. That we must all do; we must Do- Do- DO. We mast fill the world with the spirit of love. A love not of words but a love of deeds. Deeds of Love are ever productive of more Love. Please give Vancouver's love and greetings to all friends."
NEWS FROM OTHER LANDS
Mr. E, T, Hall of Manchester, England, has written a most comprehensive account of the inception of the work and progress of the Cause in that City. The account is called "The Divine Tablets -- A Retrospect for the Manchester Bahais." It contains the Tablets of Abdul Baha revealed for the friends there, and a brief history of their efforts to spread the Message. As Mr. Hall tells us in his letter: "It was written to call the friends here to remembrance when they were somewhat depressed at the passing of the Beloved from amongst us on earth." There were but fifty copies printed, and we have received the last copy they had. There is a remarkably sweet and tender appeal in this account; it touches the heart and makes the spiritual meeting with the Manchester friends a reality. How we would enjoy copying every word in this report! As this is not possible just now, we share from a Tablet of Abdul Baha contained therein, the following:
"The people of Baha, praised be the Lord, have returned the sword unto
its scabbard and strive to promote love, harmony and union, that thereby the
kindreds and peoples of the world may be reconciled. For among the Teachings of
His Holiness, Baha'o'llah, (may My Life be offered up as a sacrifice unto Him) it
is written > all mankind is but one fold, and GOD -- the Kindly Shepherd -- loving
unto all of them. For if He loved them not, He would have created them not,
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neither provided for them, nor protected them, nor even nurtured them. For inasmuch as He has vouchsafed all these blessings unto them, He, of a certainty, loveth
them, one and all. This is but Truth itself, manifest even as the sun, the light
whereof none can deny. This is verily the Way of GOD, and there is no WAY greater
than His Way. It behooveth us one and all, to walk in His Ways, and not in the
ways of men."
In Mr. Hall's letter accompanying this article or account, among other
things, he says: "..... In the end a great force will develop in every country
which will hold all peoples togethér in all parts of the world and make a new
world spanned by the Rainbow of the Covenant of Peace."
The friends in Manchester have ever realized that the Most Great Characteristic of this Dispensation is the Center of the Covenant: thus their hearts and minds are in tune with the spiritual anthems and celestial music of the World of the Covenant, and the Light of the New Day is ever reflected in their lives of great sincerity and devotion to the Cause.
Miss Ethel Rosenberg gives us just a glimpse of the progress of the Cause in England, and adds that they have recently elected their Spiritual Assembly in London, The members are: Mr. Eric Hammond, Mr. Simpson, lady Blomfield, Mrs. Thornburgh Cropper, Mrs. George, Mrs. Claudia Coles, Miss Grand, Miss Fry, Miss Rosenberg and Mr. Dawud.
That the "world is one home" becomes more of a reality to the Bahai every day, and when we read the above list of names, we feel the Family Bond of the Love of the Center of the Covenant very strongly indeed, for these radiant souls are well known personally to many of the friends throughout the United States. Our spirits are ever cheered as we think of them and to them, and we know what a force and power will emanate from this group. Their attention to the "Focal Point” and their radiant acquiescence to the Will of the Center of the Covenant, means Life and more Life, and a firm foundation for every activity.
Mrs. Yictoria Bidikian has shared with us letters from different parts of the world: Australia, Phillipine Islands, Egypt, Syria, India, Persia, Germany and other countries, -- all expressing the greatest joy in cooperating in the service of the "World Fellowship Girls." We are all more or less familiar now with this biessed organization, its purpose and aspirations, and we will never cease to ve thankful that such a Fellowship, based on the Bahai Ideal of Fellowship, has been established; for, already it has proven that it is a Power for tremendous good.
The same sweet story of precious Bahai service is in every letter whether it comes from the North or South or East or West. The love of cooperation, the intense desire to study the Teachings, and to actually BE in deed what the Teachings stand for, -- is the standard of living which is the aim of every girl the world over who is fortunate enought to have associated herself? with this Shining Group.
Mrs. Bigikian had at her summer home a iarge numger of homeless infants and children -- orphans -- to whom she gave the tender care of a mother during the summer. We consider ourselves merely "moving dust" at the feet of any one who is thus serving and TEACHING.
"The orphans are very dear tc Abdul Baha. If I had time I MYSELF would like to serve them personally, and I wovid consider this service the Greatest Bestowal of GOD." Abdul Baha in a Tablet to Mrs, Bidikian.
Dr. and Mrs. Florian Krug who were in Italy all summer are again in Germany. We are ever anticipating news from our beloved Mrs. Krug, and the following from one of her recent letters will bring joy to the hearts:
"We have had a wonderful summer in this beautiful spot. Dr. Krug is
very much stronger for his stay here, GOD be praised! The Master's Guiding Hand
led us to the right place without a doubt. I am happy because I have been able to
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teach many, many lovely souls. We intend to come here next Year... see we are
returning to Germany. How long we shall be able to remain there is in Got s keep~
ing....... I am working every minute of my life for the Glorious Cause.
Miss Alma Knobloch has kindly furnished some good news from Germany in the following report: 3
"The Cause in Germany is being advanced marvellously in Berlin, Bremen, Hamburg, Leipzig, Gera, Munich, Stuttgart and other places: this is most manifest by the steadily increasing numbers of confirmed souls. The Convention in Esslingen Was a great success, and proved to be such a wonderful means for bringing together the friends from Northern and Western Germany and demonstrating to the general — public the real feeling of brotherly love and fellowship existing among the Bahais, that another Convention was organized and held at Stuttgart in September. Stuttgart is the 'Mother Assembly' of all Germany, and it is certain that the Convention there rust have been an even greater success. The presence of our Beloved Abdul Baha's daughter, Monever Khanum, and her husban4i, Mirza Ahmad Yazdi, will be naught but Pure Bounty to the inhabitants of that country, and undoubtedly made the Convention in Stuttgart a Divine Feast. The main purpose of the Convention was to elect the National Spiritual Assembly, and to consult as to the best means for the further organization of the Cause and the promulgation of the Divine Teachings. Letters from the believers all over Germany give abundant proof of their happiness, and likewise their gratitude for having received the Glad-tidings. They believe there is no better way of demonstrating their Faith and their great love for the Truth than by exerting themselves in every possible way to spread and establish the Bahai Cause as quickly as possible."
Mrs. Emogene Yoage has been the companion of Monever Yhanum in Germany,
and Lmogene is a whole reservoir of spiritual knowledge, so wherever she goes, there is continuous SERVICE.
ae we ee eee ee
A letter from Miss Leonora Holsapple from Brazil, gives some South American news of deep interest. The most lovely thing about Miss Holsapple is her thankful attitude. Her oft repeated expressions of. gratitude for the privilege of serving, proves her clear vision and that she is in the class of spiritual optimists. She never knows discouragement. Singly and alone -- a stranger in that land (yet never alone) she enters town after town, City after City, and doors open for her as if by magic. Who paves the way and who opens the doors? The Answer comes pack in the Holy Words of the Master:
"Verily, We gaze upon ye from My ABHA Horizon and shall come to the assistance of him who has arisen to the service of My Cause with the phalanxes of the Supreme Concourse and with a legion of chosen and favored angels."
From her recent letters the following will be particularly appreciated:
"I do feel that the Bulletin is very valuable and helpful. It is surely an inspiration +o know how marvellously the way is opened for every one who arises to teach, even the one of very least ability. Often I think, oh, I haven't time to write and tell about what I am doing down here, that I might better spend the time doing something more, but then I realize that perhaps it is my duty to testify to the Bounty of GOD, that others may know -~ for it is purely THAT -- it isn't that I do anything. And I think that mine is a particularly clear case, for every one knows that T never opened my mouth in a Bahai meeting. Sometimes now when I get up to speak before a great room full of people, 1 feel that it can't be really I -- and it isn't -- that's just it. I think if any one wants to prove for himself the Power of the Manifestation in this Day, there is no surer way than just to go out and try to spread His WORD,"
. Since the last news of Miss Holsapple's work published in the Bulletin, -she tells us of her continued services with the Esperanto classes she started,
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and then more about the public and private talks in Bahia, until at last she left 2 growing, searching group -- a mucleus so attracted and so hungry for more. that she was invited to return there for intensive work.
From Bahia our dear sister travelled by boat to Recife in the State of Pernambuco. Enroute, while the boat stopped for a few hours at Maceid, Miss Holsapple went ashore, visited the important newspapers (all promised to use articles) called on some friends introduced by Miss Root, who in turn introduced her to an enthusiastic esperantist who was most anxious to hear all about the Bahai Teachings. Continuing the journey to Recife, the Message was given on the boat to some important souls, and on arrival in Recife, opportunities were many for rendering services through the Theosophical Society and the "Estrella do Oriente." Later 1% was made possible through the efforts of new friends to have one of the best halls in the City for public lectures, free of charge not even paying for the lights. Three of the principal newspapers have used articles -- one of which has the largest circulation in the State, and this paper asked the privilege of announcing all the meetings and sending a reporter to the lectures. The story of the friends raised up to assist Miss Holsapple in this City will make one of the lov= liest chapters to be recorded seme day in comnection with the pioneer work she is doing in that great country.
After three heavenly weeks in Recife, our sister travelled by boat again to Para, Brazil, another very important center. The boat stopped enroute at four or five ports: Belem, Fortaleza, Sao Luiz and other places. This journey was probably one of the most important short periods of service ever experienced. Nearly every one on this boat from the Captain down, including a number of important passengers of different nationalities -- Fnslish, Norwegian, Brazilians and others-heard the Message. These people were a porticularly well educated, well informed, cultured group, with a knowledge of religion from various viewpoints. In this group was an exceedingly well informed gentleman (name withheld for the present), a member of the Royal Geographical Society, a writer of note, and an author of several books. Miss Holsapple's many talks and discussions with him, resulted in his deciding to devote a large portion of an important book he is writing, toa recital of his discussions on the Bahai Teachings with favorable comments.
The last of the report is devoted to the arrival in Para and the preparatory work for meetings there.
The September number of "Amerika Esperantisto", Official Organ of The Esperanto Association of North America, makes mention of the work in South America of Miss Holsapple, and refers to her talks on the Banai Movement given every week while she was in Bahia, Brazil.
Among the publications of importance in the Bahai world is the "Bahai News" edited and published every month in India by M. R. Shirazi. The last two numbers of this publication are of immense importance: one contains the Tablet of Abdul Baha published in full, addressed to "His Honor, the esteemed and distinguished Professor, Dr. Forel." It answers questions on The Two Schools of Philosophers. The second issue contains other Tablets of Abdul Baha.
Both of these numbers also contain the announcement of the Third ali- -India Bahai Convention which will be held at Karachi in Decemher 1922, and likewise an invitation to the Bahais in all parts of the world to attend said Convention.
How we wish it were possible for a teacher from this country to journey
to that land at this time! The friends in India have repeatedly asked for a
teacher or teachers to visit that country and some day, when GOD wills, teachers
will be raised up who will be able to respond to this call. The friends in India
may always rest assured, however, that the constructive thoughts and united
prayers of the Rahai Family in this country will ever be with them. We are in[Page 13]
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tensely interested in the coming Convention, and will eagerly await reports concerning it.
ee oe ee ee
"Every century has its own Ideal which, in accord with that century, is confirmed. In this illumined era, that wnich is confirmed is the Oneness of the World of Humanity. Every soul who serves this Oneness undoubtedly will be assisted." Abdul Baha,
ee ee we ee ee
BAHAI NATIONAL TEACHING COMMITTEE By Mariam Haney, Secretary.
1302 Connecticut Ave., Washington, D. C. October 16, 1922.
