National Teaching Committee Bulletins/1923/December 17/Text

←Previous

National Teaching Committee Bulletins December 17, 1923

Next→

Return to PDF view Proofread once

[Page 1] "The time of former things is past and a New Time has become manifest, and all things are made new by the Desire of GOD. But only a new eye can perceive and a new mind can comprehend this Station." Bahá’u’lláh.

"In America you have only received a taste of the Spiritual Food which is to come to you. Some will arise to serve the Cause of GOD in your land who will sacrifice themselves entirely. They will be given great Power from GOD when they come forth to do His Will." ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

"I cherish the hope that, from now on, the Beloved may bestow upon me all the strength and vigour that will enable me to pursue over a long and unbroken period of strenuous labor the supreme task of achieving, in collaboration with the friends in every land, the speedy triumph of the Cause or Bahá’u’lláh. This is the prayer I earnestly request all my fellow-brethren and sisters in the Faith to offer on my behalf." Shoghi Effendi.

No. 3 December 17, 1923

NATIONAL BAHÁ’Í BULLETIN

Issued by the Teaching Committee of the National Spiritual Assembly.

There was great rejoicing among the friends of GOD in this land when the first communication was received from the hand of Shoghi Effendi after His return to the Holy Land, and which was recently sent to every Bahá’í Center through the National Spiritual Assembly. Pondering over the deep thoughts conveyed to us by our Beloved Guardian in His exquisitely beautiful and wise expressions, makes us understand more fully our enormous responsibility, and the rare privilege that is ours in being given the opportunity to manifest "ardent devotion" in carrying "out those urgent measures that will secure the outward and complete triumph of the Cause. Members of the National Spiritual Assembly have expressed the hope that every friend will consider the request of Shoghi Effendi with devout and prompt attention, and pray for Him as He directs in His letter; that all will unite as one scul in making this a universal prayer.

The unity of the friends is made manifest by cherishing and obeying every request that issues from the Guardian of the Cause.

Letters from earnest friends throughout the country indicate that all problems are rapidly fading and vanishing. There is the most remarkable Forward Movement that the Cause has ever had in this country. As ‘Abdu’l-Bahá so marvellously instructed us - "We should not be occupied with our failings and weakness, but concern ourselves about the Will of GOD". In every Center we hear of the training classes for the infants, for the Juniors and for adults. All over the country the friends jointly are "singing the praises of GOD with understanding." Through the deep study of the [Page 2] Teachings and the sincere desire to attain unto real knowledge, all realize that "The Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh is not mere history; It is the Voice and Will of GOD". "Know the greatness of the Cause into which you have entered" - for- "Belief in this Revelation is a priceless spiritual blessing". These are the Words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to some American pilgrims.

Especially noteworthy are the classes formed for the training of teachers. If a "thousand teachers" were needed in America several years ago, how many are needed now with the increased capacity and readiness of the people on all sides!

Also the Gardens of Peace, Love, Hope, Friendship and innumerable other "Gardens" are becoming almost as universal as the spread of the Teachings. They are a vitally important branch of service for the members are imbued with the most exquisite thoughts of real brotherhood, and they are rapidly spreading the thoughts of universality with all the word means from the viewpoint of a Bahá’í.

There is another form of TEACHING which has attained through study, the "most important" class, namely DEEDS. We have received a most charming account of life as lived in Senado, Cuba. Mrs. Snodgrass, one of our lovely Bahá’í sisters, tells us of the way to serve best in that country. Her "living of the life" seems to interest the people more than anything else, so she is continually asked "Why do you do so?" How splendid this is, for then when she speaks, they listen and HEAR! Her home is a Center of Love, and there is no doubt that it is the most interesting spot in all Cuba.

THE NEED OF THE HOUR

A letter from Mr. Wm. H. Randall, Pres. and Treas. of the National Spiritual Assembly, contains the following very inspiring news:

"The letter recently sent out by the N. S. A. calling for assistance and a recognition of the mutual responsibilities of the Cause based upon the new organized plan of Shoghi Effendi, reached the hearts of the believers throughout America. The response has demonstrated the deep and underlying spirit of unity that is moving all the beloved friends of GOD into the service of His Kingdom of Unity. We are getting responses from nearly all the Assemblies and many individual friends, and later we will publish the amount contributed in response to this appeal for the National Bahá’í Fund and its participation to Temple needs."

An additional message has just been received from Mr. Randall. It contains such glorious news that every friend should share in the joy it imparts:

"The contributions in response to the last letter continue to flow in, and I really am amazed that the response is so general; for varying amounts according to the strength of Assemblies and individuals are coming in from every Center in the country, and I have an idea before we get the full response that about every Bahá’í in this country will have contributed something. Is this not simply magnificent, and does it not prove that the friends are ready for unity, and that the call for united support, submerging the personal spirit, has found a response in the light of every soul?"

"Live up to the Principles of Sacrifice..........Everything becomes yours by Renunciation of everything." ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

JENAB-I FADIL EXHILIARATES, REJOICES AND GUIDES OTHERS

as our Divine Master, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá prophesied that he would. Our revered teacher has been revelling in the joys of service for the thirty or more days spent in and around Chicago. Dr. Bagdadi writes: "We certainly kept Jenab-i in action." This gives us [Page 3] an idea of the kind of an intensive program arranged. However, let us share our teacher's inimitable account, for his own radiant story will bring spiritual enthusiasm.

"In Chicago the friends worked with cooperation and assistance, especially Dr. Bagdadi and Zeenat. Zeenat helped my family every day and night; and dear sister, Mrs. Slater, and Mr. Vail, and Mrs. True, and all the other friends.

"Every Sunday afternoon we had a public meeting in the Temple, interesting a great many strangers. On Sunday nights in the home of Mrs. Moffatt, we had very successful meetings. Every Tuesday night there was a Bahá’í Young People's meeting in the Bahá’í Hall. They gave talks on different subjects, preparing themselves to be Bahá’í lecturers. Thus from Chicago may arise many lecturers travelling to different places in the Central States. Naturally the meetings were very interesting, and there were a crowd of friends. I talked among others at every meeting.

"There was also a public meeting every Wednesday and Thursday evening in the Bahá’í Hall. Every Tuesday afternoon, there was a public meeting in Mrs. True's home. Besides these, there were meetings at the Psychology Club, Woman's Club, a school, a Unitarian Church, and many others. I also talked on World Fellowship over the radio, and a few days ago I received a letter from the Editor of a newspaper in Milwaukee, asking for a copy of the talk which he wished to publish in his paper.

"The Chairman of the Psychology Club wrote me a letter expressing his appreciation, and saying that all the members of the Club appreciated this Great Message of the Kingdom which came in this Great Age through the Great Master, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

"I went two times to Milwaukee and Kenosha, where we had very interesting meetings. In Milwaukee I spoke three times at the Unity Center, and in Racine there was a very spiritual public meeting in the Bahá’í Hall. The last meeting in Kenosha was a very large attractive meeting in the Bahá’í Hall. There were many strangers. Some of the friends came from Racine and Milwaukee.

"Through all this, I found the hearts of all the friends of GOD full, of faith and love for the Master, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, and all had the desire to serve the Kingdom of ABHA sacrificially, and with the utmost union and cooperation.

"The last night we were in Chicago, we had a very spiritual Bahá’í public meeting. In short the Chicago Bahá’í friends gave full time to the service of the Cause and were very active. Dr. Bagdadi helped me a great deal, interpreting for ne in many places."

Mr. Vail speaks of Jenab-i Fadil's visit in Chicago in the following glowing account:

"The month Jenab-i Fadil has been in Chicago and vicinity has been a month of heavenly bestowals. He has conducted a class for the young people in methods of teaching - the class Dr. Bagdadi has guided during the last year. Then each Wednesday evening our glorious sage gave an address for the Bahá’ís on some of the deeper spiritual Teachings. Last Wednesday he spoke in fluent English on the need of coming to GOD through His Manifestations and of turning our faces to them constantly in prayer. As he spoke the Light of the Master and of Bahá’u’lláh flooded the hearts of those present with a new realization of the sublime station and world-transforming power of this latest Manifestation.

"His public addresses at the Temple and the Bahá’í Headquarters have attracted many new people. At each public address Dr. Bagdadi has been the interpreter, translating the great spiritual arguments very effectively.

"To the friends Jenab-i Fadil has brought a wonderful consciousness of the need of blending firmness, obedience, forgiveness, all in perfect love, of the splendor of living the Bahá’í life, and of deeds in accordance with the Precepts of Bahá’u’lláh, for these are the fruits that prove to the world the Tree of the Cause is Divine." [Page 4] Jenab-i Fadil left Chicago on December 13th for Cleveland, where he and his family are the guests of Mr. and Mrs. Myron Potter. Their home will be the headquarters for that section, and from there Jenab-i will travel alone visiting the friends in Detroit, Akron and Dayton. The latter part of December, he and his family will leave for Philadelphia where they will be guests of the Philadelphia Assembly while Jenab-i fulfills the program which is being arranged for him there. Later he will visit Baltimore and Washington enroute to the South.

"His honor, Fadil, in reality, is perfect in all the grades - in knowledge and virtue, in sincerity of intention, in beauty of character, in severance from aught else save GOD and attraction with the Fragrances of GOD." ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

ARISING IN THE SERVICE OF THE CAUSE IN URBANA.

The friends of GOD in Urbana and Champaign, Ill., joyously welcome the travelling teachers, and arise as one soul to advance the Cause and to spread the Teachings, for they fully realize that "the world will not be quickened except through this Cause." "What attraction! What affection! How they are united together! How they have become the expression of one spirit and the emanation of one heart!"

Mr. Chas. Mason Remey gives us a brief account of his visit among the friends in this illumined group, a part of which is shared in the following excerpt:

"I had a very beautiful three days with the Bahá’ís at Urbana and Champaign, they having arranged a very busy program. The first afternoon Mrs. Harding entertained the Hindu Club, A number of Hindus, together with Mohammedans from India were gathered there - young men studying in the University. Some of them had heard of the Cause and were interested. Others were hearing for the first time. The subject was the Bahá’í Movement in India and the work that it is doing toward creating good fellowship among the Hindus, Mohammedans, Parsees and Christians in India. That evening Mrs. Harding entertained the South African Club, and in addition, she invited a number of Chinese, Japanese, and Philippinos. About sixty were present and a talk was given upon the Holy Land, illustrated with views of places of Bahá’í interest. A general discussion of the Bahá’í Cause followed, many good questions being asked.

"The following day, I was invited to dine at the Cosmopolitan Club where I met some thirty or forty young men from all parts of the world. I was glad to note also that there were a number of our American boys in the club. After dinner re talked for an hour and a half about the Cause and the affinity thich it is bringing between peoples of different races, nations, and religions. From the questions asked, it was clear that the basic Bahá’í Principles had penetrated the thought of the gathering. Later a large meeting, which had been advertised for several days, was held in one of the University lecture halls. Prof. Kunz of the Physics Department presided and the hall was very well filled. The world uniting aspect of the Bahá’í Movement was the subject of the talk and everyone seemed in a good spirit. From that meeting we all went to the home of Prof. and Mrs. Kempner where a feast was spread. That gathering was really a spiritual blessing. The latter part of the evening we talked principally of the Covenant, of the Testament, of the Master, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, of the "Primal Branch", the "Guardian of the Cause", and the significance of the organization of the Cause, while we all seened to have glimpses into the future when the civilized world would be fashioned and founded upon the Principles of God's Kingdom.

"Both of the Sunday meetings of the Friends were attended by Senator and Mrs. Dunlap, who have a place at Savoy, a few miles south of Urbana. At their invitation a group of us went down to their farm on Monday. It is a very beautiful place and a model farm from a practical standpoint as well as one of natural beauty. Mrs. [Page 5] Dunlap is devoting a large share of her time to improving household conditions on the farms throughout the State. Through this work she is coming in contact with many people, and wherever she goes, she is spreading the Light of the Bahá’í Cause.

"Late that same afternoon Mrs. Payne held a meeting for the instruction of children. The children of the Assembly were there - ten little ones, as I recall the number. They gave their keen attention to the stories that were told them about the Bahá’í children in the Orient, particularly the story of the martyrdom of Ruhollah and his father, Vargha. Mrs. Payne is doing a very beautiful work here. You will remember that she took her little daughter to Haifa to see ‘Abdu’l-Bahá a few years ago. It is quite surprising all the things that the child remembers. Nothing seems to have escaped her.

"On Monday evening I was invited to a gathering at one of the Sorority houses where thirty or forty young women students were gathered. Their chief interest lay in the education of women, so I was able to tell them something about the Bahá’í women in the Orient, dwelling at some length upon the mission and life of Kuratulayn. From that meeting we went to a gathering of forty or more people in the home of Dr. Zorger in Champaign. This meeting was announced in the papers and there was a very good writeup summarizing the talk, which was upon the Bahá’í Movement in the different countries of the world. This gathering was composed mostly of people who had been to other meetings and were becoming interested. Its spirit was most enthusiastic."

Mr. Remey also speaks of having met Mr. and Mrs. Matoon in Urbana, and that "they made the pilgrimage to the Blessed Master, taking with them their two children, the youngest a baby of three months. They had but little money so went part of the way fourth class. They were greatly blessed."

Mrs. Harding, Secretary of the Urbana Assembly, has graciously sent us some very encouraging reports which indicate that the friends in Urbana are not only keeping others very busy serving, but they themselves realize the importance of "follow up" " work which we know is so very vital.

From their printed programs we note that they have had Mr. Vail lecture for them on "Evolution and Religion - The Independent Investigation of Truth". There was a very good audience in the room used for lectures at the University. On December 16, Mr. Vail speaks in the same place on the "New Proofs of the Oneness of Mankind". This is a subject which should be foremost on the list of Addresses given by all Bahá’í teachers, for ‘Abdu’l-Bahá repeatedly taught us that "The Oneness of the World of Humanity should be established in order that the Edifice of Universal Peace may be erected".

Mrs. Corinne True was also on the program for a lecture on "The Bahá’í Temple of Universal Religion". While in Urbana she also gave a talk to the Junior group, and a talk on the "Bahá’í Movement" at a tea given at the home of Mrs. Kunz. Mrs. Harding's report states that "she sowed seeds in ground that had not been cultivated before, and she quickened hearts that were somewhat discouraged by the pressure of worldly affairs".

Mrs. Harding also tells us of Mr. Remey's two stirring public addresses: one on "The Universal Message of the Bahá’í Movement" and another on "Observations of a Bahá’í Traveller on a World Tour" - that they were very interesting and enthusiastically received, particularly his talks attracted the young people very much. Her glowing account of the meetings at her home for the Hindu students and the Philippine-Illinois Club; later his brief talk at the Cosmopolitan Club dinner, the Feast at Mrs. Kempner's home, the private meetings with the Bahá’ís and other meetings - all indicate that an intensive and constructive program was fulfilled with Divine confirmations. Mrs. Harding adds this note of vital import: [Page 6] "Every time one of these illumined Bahá’í teachers comes into our midst, we are impressed anew with the great wisdom of the Master in sending us these visiting teachers. They all bring the same great Bahá’í Message, but each one approaches the subject in such a different way that one almost things it a New Movement. The faith, the love, the devotion, the enthusiasm of these teachers put new hope, new desires into each Center they visit. Unto them much has been given! Unto us much has been shared by them! Of us all much is required!"

"The sincerity of a pure person is apparent in his deeds and actions." ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

PHILADELPHIA

The friends here are ever "standing on the alert"; active day and night in the great work of the Kingdom, and ALIVE on the expansion of the Teaching program. Here are a few of their recent activities as reported by Miss Jessie Revell:

"Mrs. Brittingham has recently given two more Radio Talks, Broadcasted from Station W.D.A.R. Lit Brothers, Philadelphia, Pa., one of the largest Radio Stations in this city. These Talks were heard by some thousands of people, some of whom have written letters of appreciation.

"By invitation from Dr. Jesse Holmes, President of Swarthmore College, Mrs. Brittingham spoke to the Professors and their families upon the Bahá’í Movement giving an illuminating address. The wife of Dr. Holmes asked Mrs. Brittingham to tell of her visits to ‘Akká. It was a Heavenly meeting and a most beautiful audience, so reverent and appreciative. At the close almost everyone present expressed gratitude.

"Mrs. Brittingham has also spoke from a platform of one of the leading Spiritualist Churches in this city, upon the Bahá’í Movement. Her subject was "Two Centuries". This also was a very appreciative audience.

"We had lately a visit of nine days from our beloved brother, Louis Gregory, who gave a fine address on each Sunday night from a Church platform in Philadelphia. Also he spoke in a Riverton Baptist Church, and on Tuesday night Nov. 27, he addressed a Traveling Bible Class in the suburbs of Riverton.

"We had the happiness of his presence on the night of the celebration of the Feast of the Covenant and on the 28th, the Memorial meeting of the Ascension of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Also on Thursday (Thanksgiving Night) he gave a talk to Mrs. Brittingham's investigating class, a group of newly interested souls. At a colored Y.M.C.A. meeting in South Philadelphia on Friday, Nov. 30, he also made an address, and at the Dunbar Theatre, an open Forum, presided over by Bishop Hurd, he spoke on Sunday afternoon upon "The Migration of the Colored People". In addition to these engagements, Mr. Gregory visited personally individuals who are interested in the Great Message."

"The greater the exertion the more the descent of the Divine Bestowals." ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

WASHINGTON

WASHINGTON has been refreshed and stimulated recently by a visit from Mr. Hooper Harris who spoke at a Sunday night public meeting on the subject "The World Adrift"; and also at a private meeting of the friends at the home of Dr. and Mrs. Ardeshire Irania when he spoke on the "Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá". Both were very important meetings; the character of meetings that are never forgotten - . friends and strangers were enlightened, encouraged and greatly pleased. Mr. Harris also spoke in Baltimore at the regular Sunday afternoon public meeting; and earlier in the day to a private group at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Willkie. The meetings all bore the fruit of great blessings and confirmation. [Page 7] Mr. Edward B. Kinney has also been a recent visitor to Washington, giving a really inspired talk on the Covenant at the home of Mr. and Miss Hopper on the occasion of the Feast of the Covenant. This meeting was Pure Bounty to the friends and the Master o'ershadowed all.

Mr. Louis G. Gregory recently arrived in Washington for a stay of a few weeks, which means a series of spiritual activities. His talk to the friends on the progress of the Cause in other cities; his illuminating address on the Temple and its needs; and his public address on "The Light of GOD" were among his first services to the friends and the public. He is well known in this City; all have confidence in him as a teacher as he religiously and faithfully preserves the Pure Teachings in all his talks. There will be no rest for Mr. Gregory here, for he will be constantly in service. He is indeed blessed and fortunate to be one of those who are privileged to put forth a superhuman effort, for any soul who will "March, March, March" as the Master once said when weariness overtakes one, is at that very moment "turning in such wise to the Kingdom of ABHÁ as to attract the Divine Bounties".

Mr. Gregory tells us he finds Washington with a degree of unity and peace heretofore unattained, and he reminds the friends that the Creative Message of the Master once sent to this group has evidently reached the hearts that Message was - "Be serene!" The Master also said "Be ye firm in the Covenant so that if the people of all the world gather together, they may not succeed in shaking you. Firmness in the Covenant is the Foundation of progress and success."

‘ABU’L-BAHÁ said: "I must go everywhere and raise the Call of the Kingdom. As the days of My Life are limited in this world, I must perfect My services; I must go everywhere and raise the Summons of the Kingdom!" He was indeed the Divine Exemplar.

CALIFORNIA

There are several news items of surpassing interest from this corner of the Vineyard, but as the next Bulletin, we hope, will contain a detailed account of California activities, we are therefore selecting this time only the story which demonstrates what a young and very sincere person may accomplish, one whose ambition, first of all, is to "follow Him"; who considers the Knowledge of GOD the Foundation upon which to build, who is turned to the Divine Center "no matter what the occupation may be". We are writing of that noble and illumined soul, Miss Marion Carpenter, who was formerly a student at the State University at Berkeley, Calif. (and while there Vice President of the Cosmopolitan Club), and who is now taking her fourth College year at Leland Stanford University. Her charming and comprehensive letter is replete with statements which indicato spiritual onthusiasm. The following excerpts give briefly a part of her story:

"For three years I have been at the University of California where I was fortunate enough to be near Mrs. Frankland and the Berkeley Bahá’í Juniors. I have always, however, wanted to be a student at Stanford, for it seemed especially blessed by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. His speaking here was a practical demonstration that Science and Religion do agree."

Then she tells of her longing hope to find Bahá’ís either in the town of Palo Alto or at the University, but for a short time discovered no one. Then she used the prayer of the BÁB "GOD will assist all those who arise to serve HIM...." - and thereafter everything changed. How when her friends and the girls came to her room, they began to ask about her pictures of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and about her Bahá’í books. She was overjoyed, and especially as many were interested and wanted to know more about the Teachings. She gave away all her blue booklets and leaflets; the girls passed them on to others and came back for more! Of course with her very commendable and amazing enthusiasm, she longed to start a group which would one fine day develop into [Page 8] an Assembly, through the Divino Bestowals. Just as she was trying to decide where she could hold meetings, Mrs. Frankland sent her the address of a Dr. Gibson to whom she had given the Message years ago. The devoted Miss Carpenter lost no time in making the acquaintance of this Doctor, and she found her "very lovely and eager for Bahá’í companionship and news of the activities. She is indeed a true friend of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. (Every day of our lives we see or hear of the Divine and comforting Promisc of the Master fulfilled that "Every seed cast in this magnificent century will bear fruit......"). The second time she visited her, the Dr. offered her home for the meetings, and the offering was done in the most beautiful spirit for she said it was really "selfishness" on her part because she herself longed to hear more about the Teachings. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá said "I am searching the lands and seas for those who will arise to serve My Cause" - and for every step we take on the Path, we see how He comes miles toward the one who sincerely longs to spread the Message of the Kingdom. Now there is established a regular Thursday night Bahá’í meeting. A record of the first meeting will be one of the sweet stories connected with Bahá’í history.

Our beloved Mrs. Cooper went down from San Francisco and was the speaker at this meeting. Miss Carpenter had sent invitations to many on the Campus and in Palo Alto including a few very distinguished persons who were known to be friendly to the Cause. Miss Carpenter had prepared many, so that they knew of the Bahá’í Religion and Its aims. The following is her account of that first meeting:

"In spite of mid-term examinations, we had a number of students present, among them a Chinese student; as officer of the Cosmopolitan Club; a young woman who is going to China as a missionary, and another very remarkable girl who is doing post graduate work. Mr. and Mrs. Ioas also came down from Burlingame to lend their loving cooperation. Mrs. Cooper's talk was of course perfectly glorious. She herself is a heavenly soul - brilliant and severed. She spoke with such charm and magnetism, that every one simply loved her and loved what she said...... I could scarcely keep my eyes from her radiant face. She gave a splendid illustration of the religious situation: The Christian, Mohammedan, Buddhist, Zoroastrian and Jew, all ascending a hig mountain, each one following a different path and each one expecting to find His Prophet at the top, but when they arrive they find the very same Spirit to receive them. That Spirit we recognize as Bahá’u’lláh. So the meeting was successful and I pray that it will have far reaching results". The next day Miss Carpenter received letters which made her very happy, among them was one especially gratifying for the writer said: "I have always been much interested and impressed with the Teachings........and I hope I may be able to attend occasionally...... If it should ever seem desirable to your group to have a more public meeting place than a private residenoc, I should like to suggest the ......Hall. It is our policy to make our institution as much of a community center as we can, and I am especially glad to establish contacts with such groups as yours...... Miss Carpenter was especially pleased over this offer for it means a splendid opening for Bahá’í speakers from the East. In closing our dear sister says:

"Please add your prayers to mine. Stanford must become illumined for the Beloved Master sent out the Cry of Universal Peace here eleven years ago.....All we can do is to love abundantly!"

"Try always to concentrate your activities in one channel, and let that one be the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh. Then you will see how the confirmations of GOD will descend."

‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

SEATTLE

An excerpt from a letter from Mrs. Finch brings to our attention forcibly the need for teachers. She says:

"The calls for workers in His Vineyard are certainly many. There is not time for any one teacher to meet all the demands [Page 9] and accept all the invitations received. Yesterday the Lord opened the way for me to speak about the spiritual capacity of the people of Japan and China to a most wonderfully appreciative audience... ‘Abdu’l-Bahá prepared the souls in those countries to see the Truth; it was my happy privilege to witness it, and now there is opportunity to relate what I saw. Miss Agnes Alexander and Miss Martha Root both well know how very eager and how well prepared are the people of these two countries. ... Last week I gave three talks in another City near here, and one in the Public Library in this City. The listeners everywhere seem happy to hear the story of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and the happenings in the Orient."

BOSTON

The National Teaching Committee decided to share with the friends, reports on progress that is being made in many Centers in the training classes and other teaching activities, and herewith we present the report of Beatrice Ashton, Secretary of the Local Teaching Committee of Boston. She is an illumined soul and has arrived at an understanding herself, therefore she is able to assist others:

"The Boston Spiritual Assembly has approved the suggestion made by the Local Teaching Committee for a teaching class to meet once a month with the whole assembly where the Teachings may be considered from different points of view. Meetings in Boston are to be held this winter regularly every Thursday and every Sunday, so one Thursday a month will be used for this Teaching Meeting. The subject will be announced from one meeting to the next so that the friends will have a whole month to collect questions which have been asked them, or which are likely to be asked on that subject, as well as to study in the Teachings the answers given by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. You know the words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá: Each one of the believers of God is a teacher. Let him just turn his heart to the Blessed Perfection and unloose his tongue. God will inspire him. Teaching the Cause of God is dependent upon Spiritual Power and not upon variety of knowledge or a vast range of 'information'. Let a soul advance toward the True One, entreat assistance from the Beauty of Abhá, and then commence to speak. Let him but begin teaching, and God will come to his succor. There are, however, many Tablets, many books by Mirza Abul Fazl and other Bahá’í writers which you should read and keep their contents in your memory, so that you may bring forth those proofs into your conversation. It has often been observed that a learned and wise man has gone into a town to teach the Cause of God, but did not succeed; on the other hand a simple man, attracted, holy, spiritual, divine, has been able to teach many souls. The higher the flame of the fire of the Love of God in the heart, the more eloquent and fluent becomes the tongue. The believers must strive so that each one of them may become a teacher in the Cause'.

"The aim is that we may every one become educated in the Teachings and our own consciousness deepened; but this aim is only as a means to the greater aim, namely, that armed with renewed faith and assurance and enkindled with love and unity we may give expression to this glorious Truth, that through us it may pour the breath of Life into the souls of others. Through the discussion and consultation of the questions and the answers we may practice teaching among ourselves; then when questions are put to us as we tell others of the Message, we will not feel lost, but with confidence and having heard our own voices before, the satisfying answer will come forth! For after all it is only as we express, that we serve and love.

"The first Teaching meeting has been announced for next month with the subject or aspect to be considered "The Oneness of Relation between Christianity and the Bahá’í Revelation". This will bring out all those well-known questions as to what is new in the Bahá’í Teachings that is not in Christianity, does Bahá’u’lláh supersede Christ, isn't 'our' religion good enough, why do we need a new name, etc., and the prophetic references in the Old and New Testament and questions which are so uppermost in the 'church war' of the day! I am sure every one will have something to say! It is our hope to send in to the Bulletin a composite of the answers arrived [Page 10] at, as Mrs. Parsons, who was at the initial meeting last night, suggested. I think it will take a corps of reporters to keep up with the questions and references in the Writings!

"Now I want to tell you something of the work of our 'speakers', although Mr. Randall may have written you already about it to some extent. Early in November Mr. Randall went to Portland, Maine, to speak before the Portland Psychology Club, a large and active organization. The chairman knew nothing of the Message and before the meeting told Mr. Randall just how long he could talk and when to stop for questions because at a certain time they always closed the hall. The subject was 'The Bahá’í Philosophy'. The hall was crowded. Mr. Randall said it was very confusing while he was speaking because the audience applauded so much and he wasn't used to applause! But he talked his allotted time, and longer, and then about the time they always closed the hall, Mr. Randall stopped again (the chairman had told him to go on when Mr. Randall stopped first at the end of his allotted time) and questions were asked; questions on the divinity of the manifestation, etc., that showed real spiritual insight, so Mr. Randall went deeply into the Teachings. After the meeting was finally closed there were still groups standing around. They asked Mr. Randall when he had to leave for his train. As his train left after midnight, these twenty-five or so people still stayed and sat down and asked more questions showing a deep spiritual hunger until almost two hours had passed after the time they always closed the hall! They have asked him to come again to address their club.

"This last Monday night Mr. Randall spoke before the Boston Psychology Club. He spoke before them last winter also. It was an audience of 800 people and as before the greatest interest and hunger was shown. When questions were called for it was the custom to have them written out on papers and sent up to the speaker. Twenty-six people took the trouble and had the interest to write out their questions. One lady told Mr. Randall he had given her a greater understanding of Christ than she had ever had and as she was superintendent of an Episcopal Sunday school asked him to come and talk to her Sunday school children. Mr. Randall told her he would do so on two conditions, one, that the minister should be told about the Bahá’í Message and be agreeable to his speaking to her class, and the other that the parents of the children should be told!

"Mr. Randall also spoke before St. Mark's Musical and Literary Union.

"Mr. Gregory made some beautiful contacts in his stay in Boston. He spoke at a colored church in Cambridge and is to speak at the Open Door Club of Boston. He also had an interview with the Superintendent of Schools of Somerville. Mrs. Oglesby gave a talk on the Teachings before the B.Y.P.U. of the Camden Street Baptist Church.

"This is by no means all the activity, but will be supplemented with other accounts.

"We so miss Jenab-i Fadil!........While he was in Boston, he met with the Local Teaching Committee and gave such a fine description of the way the teaching work is carried on in Teheran.......

The Bahá’í Teachings "are universal and the standard for human action. Mere theory is fruitless.......When practical activity has been manifested, the Teachings of GOD have borne fruit." ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

ON THE HIGH SEA: BOUND FOR SOUTH AMERICA

Miss Leonora Holsapple, the faithful, sailed recently from New York, en-route to the land where a few years ago she had such signal success and victories spreading the Great Glad-tidings. Accompanying her were her sister, and also Miss Maud Mickle of Buffalo. These three "lovers of the Beauty of ABHA" will be for sev- [Page 11] eral days sailing on the Atlantic Ocean enroute to the Centers where there will be, on their arrival, wonderful renewed activities, in truth and in reality, however, they are in the Ocean of the Love of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, sailing safely in the Divine Ship of the Covenant, protected and safe under "His Royal Wings".

A letter from Mrs. Ober contains a thought which is helpful as we think of our loved ones who have gone forth and who are in the "front ranks" of servers. She writes:

"When one goes forth' to the Field of Teaching we all go for we are one. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá used to say so often 'When I meet one I meet all. That word 'all' remains indelibly imprinted in my mind and heart since reading the last Bulletin, -Zia's words therein were indeed inspiring as was the entire number."

We all know our dear Leonora, the severed, and we love her sister, too. They need no introduction to the family of Bahá’ís. Miss Mickle is well and favorably known among a few and much beloved, but that all may know a little something about this sister, let us introduce her through Mrs. Ober's mention of her:

"Leonora is very happy to have Miss Mickle accompany her. Indeed Maud Mickle is very pure in heart. She heard 'The Message' the night of the Master's Ascension through Mr. and Mrs. Ives, and she heard the CALL in her heart that very night. Her entire dependence upon GOD, and her deep sense of utter nothingness, makes her of those who will serve with steadfastness and humility as GOD directs..... She is very dependable and capable, is not a public speaker, but will be a great asset to the work down there, we feel sure. She pays her own expenses and hopes to earn her living there. She is able to do many things, her hands are of those that can do well whatever attempted........We feel most happy that she has heard the CALL."

The first letter from Leonora, mailed from Norfolk, contains a reference which indicates that these loved ones have well in mind and heart that - "Prayer is one of the ladders by which we mount to the nearness of GOD" as ‘Abdu’l-Bahá instructed, for she says:

".......We know we have been sustained by the prayers of the Bahá’ís in all parts of the country, and it is only thru constant and earnest prayer that we can be strengthened and guided throughout this undertaking. I surely realize that I, of myself, am utterly powerless, that only by turning to the Center, the Source of all Power, can anything be accomplished.........Does it not seem like a miracle that Maud Mickle is going with us?.....I am very, very happy about it, especially as I feel that now it may be possible for us to have a little home of our own in either Bahia or Rio, and make it a real Bahá’í Center."

".....I am with you always....whether living or dead!" ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

IN THE UNIVERSE OF LIGHTS

One of the early believers in Germany, Miss Margaret Doring, a Bahá’í sister well known in this country as a faithful, sincere and devoted server, passed to the "Paradise of Immortality" not long ago. From the "Sun of Truth" we quote the following notice:

"Miss Doring was a zealous seeker after Truth.........After she settled here in Stuttgart about eighteen years ago, her soul found what she was seeking - the Divine Truth, for here she became acquainted with the Bahá’í Teachings.........She loved and appreciated this City very much, for here she worked as a 'Light' of the Love of GOD' as our beloved Master, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá called hor......As the first follower of the Bahá’í Light in Stuttgart, she became to many of us a spiritual mother..... [Page 12] She did not know a higher service than to lead her fellow human beings to the Path of GOD and to advance His Great Cause.....Many have had the pleasure of spiritual hours and of receiving Divine Knowledge in her home which our Master blessed with His Presence. Now her soul has left the body.....Our prayers will always surround her, for only a veil intervenes; though she has left us physically, her spirit will ever be with us." (Translation of Miss Doris Lohse).

We have also been asked to make mention of the passing of Mrs. Lydia Raney May in Portland, Oregon recently, one of the old and faithful friends in this country.

"O GOD, My GOD! I call Thee, Thy Prophets and They Messengers, Thy Saints and Thy Holy Ones, to witness that I have declared conclusively Thy Proofs unto Thy loved ones, and set forth clearly all things unto them, that they may watch over Thy Faith, guard Thy Straight Path and protect Thy Resplendent Law. Thou art verily the All-Knowing, the All-Wise!" From the Will of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

1910 Kalorama Road, Washington, D. C. December 17, 1923.

NATIONAL BAHÁ’Í TEACHING COMMITTEE By Mariam Haney, Secretary.