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To the beloved of the Lord and the handmaids of the Merciful, the accredited delegates to the Annual Bahá’í Convention of America, Chicago, Ill.
Dearly beloved brethren and sisters in 'Abdu'l-Bahá':
On this auspicious occasion, when the elected representatives of the Bahá’í Community throughout the continent of America, gathered for the first time within the Foundation Hall of the stately edifice of the Mashriqu'l-Adhkár, are assembled to take counsel together regarding those vital issues that confront the Cause of Bahá'u'lláh in that land, may I, as one of your humble fellow-workers in the Field of Service offer you from the very depths of my heart my brotherly love and sincere greetings, and assure you of my fervent prayers for the success of your deliberations and the attainment of your heart's desire.
You stand at this challenging Hour in the history of the Cause at the threshold of a new Era; the functions you are called upon to discharge are fraught with immense possibilities; the responsibilities you shoulder are grave and momentous; and the eyes of many peoples are turned, at, this hour, towards you, expectant to behold the dawning of a Day that shall witness the fulfillment of His Divine Promise.
Forgetful of the past and its vicissitudes, conscious of the need for renewed and combined freed from all earthly limitations and motives, with every lingering trace of ill-feeling forever banished from our hearts, fresh united and determined, let us join in deep and silent communion with the ever-watchful Spirit of our beloved and with humility and earnestness supplicate the guidance that will enable us to fulfill the task which is now committed to our charge. May this year's Convention, by the range of its activities, by the character of its proceedings, by its faithful adherence to the Divine Instructions of our loving Master, and above all by its radiant spirit of enthusiasm and true fellowship, prove itself as one of the greatest landmarks in the history of the Cause in America.
May the all-pervading Spirit of Bahá'u'lláh so permeate the souls of its members, as to cause it to mirror forth the glories and the splendours of the Celestial Concourse.
Haifa, Palestine, April 8th, 1923.
Your devoted brother, (Signed) Shoghi.
--DRAWING--
The Shrine of the Báb and of 'Abdu'l-Bahá on the side of Mt. Carmel
| VOL. 14 | JUNE, 1933 | No. 3 |
BAHA'I conventions may be likened to days. The light of each day is the phenomenal sun, as we are reminded in the Book of Assurance. Even so, the spirit and power of every convention are as rays from the Eternal Sun of Reality now manifest. Yet as each day in its order, temperature, reflection of light and march of events has its own story to tell, so each convention, through the onward progress of the Cause, the measurable changes of personnel, the ever-growing insight and world consciousness of the friends, the new occasions which bring new responsibilities and wider opportunities for service, unfolds a new history of divine interest. When sincere hearts meet for service, who can tell what Guidance and consultation will suggest? Who indeed can say what a convention may bring forth? Only the One who knows all things.
FEAST OF EL RIDUAN
THE fifteenth annual convention of the American Bahá’ís adds its unique story to the history of the Cause. The Feast of El Riduan, which marked its beginning, was brilliant and inspiring. Covers were laid in the banquet hall of the Auditorium Hotel in Chicago on the evening of April 28th for more than two hundred and fifty delegates and visiting friends. The voice of Mr. Vail was heard in humble supplication to the Giver of Bounty. At the end of the dinner, Mr. Albert R. Windust, who was chairman, read many beautiful selections from the Creative Words which revealed the good news that the cycle of light has come. He then briefly traced the history of the Mighty Persons who have arisen in the Day of God to give life and light to all men: these are, in order, the radiant Morn of Guidance and First Point of Revelation, the Bab; the Holy Manifestation of the Beauty of Abhá, who shone forth as a world-illuminating Sun, Bahá'u'lláh; the Greatest Branch, the Mystery of God, the Servant of God, the Light of the Love of God, 'Abdu'l-Bahá; and the Primal Branch and Guardian of the Cause, Shoghi Effendi. These wonderful personalities have brought a message of peace, happiness and security for all mankind, expanding the ideals that are limited into universal love.
Dr. Zia M. Bagdadi of Chicago was the initial speaker, giving a graphic description of the declaration of Bahá'u'lláh, now joyfully celebrated by the feast. He said:
The government and clergy of Persia, not satisfied with the martyrdom of the Bab and twenty thousand people, were even more afraid of Bahá'u'lláh, and banished him to Baghdad. Thence he was accompanied by a number of friends. These were of two kinds. Some were sincere in their attraction to the Cause; some had, first, the hope of material gain and then, perhaps, spiritual gain. It was very difficult to bring these two elements into harmony, yet Bahá'u'lláh trained these people into the acceptance of the oneness of the Light of religion. Suddenly a command came to Baghdad from the Sultan for Bahá'u'lláh to be exiled to Constantinople. This journey was difficult, perilous and heartbreaking. Bahá'u'lláh knew that because of this the hearts of the friends were sad, and the fees rejoiced. But behold! on the evening of that memorable day, April twenty-first, 1863, these conditions were reversed, for the declaration by Bahá'u'lláh of his station brought rejoicing to the friends and vexation to the enemies. The scene of this declaration was one of impressive beauty. Bahá'u'lláh crossed a river and entered a garden of four gates with a path leading from each to the center of the garden. These paths were bordered with evergreens and cypress and poplar trees; eight rows in all there were and they stood like so many soldiers, Bahá'u'lláh walked down one of these paths to the place where the four paths met in the center of the garden. The waters rippled and sparkled, the nightingales sang, gentle breezes waited the perfume of the roses and bright sunshine made glad the day. Amid such surroundings Bahá'u'lláh declared himself. This was a new era. Humanity was immersed in the sea of Divine Mercy. All present including the governor were affected—friends rejoicing and foes confused and weeping. Thus was this great feast inaugurated—a sign of true brotherhood and universal peace.
Miss Maud Whitlock, accompanied by Miss Sylvia Marburder, sang three beautiful songs.
MRS. STUART W. FRENCH, of Pasadena, was next in the order of speakers. She transmitted a message of greeting from Mrs. Louise R. Waite with printed copies of her new Temple Song for distribution.
Two years ago tonight for the first time, said Mrs. French, I met 'Abdu'l-Bahá. I seem still to be living in that spiritual atmosphere in the full light of the Master. The Light of the Face walks before me.
She spoke of the Bahá’í Cause in southern California. The Southwest, she said, has lighted a torch which it puts into the hands of various spiritual assemblies. It is a brilliant white light. It reveals a path of obedience, training and Guidance. We are with you! Our torches are lighted! Although contrary winds blow, yet the faithful shine with the light of God!
Prof. M. R. Shirazi of Sind College, Karachi, India, first president of the all-India convention of Bahá’ís, was introduced by a letter from Shoghi Effendi, expressing the hope that this friend would stimulate the teaching campaign in this country. The speaker among other things said:
Let me greet you in the name of Bahá'u'lláh, 'Abdu'l-Bahá and Shoghi Effendi, also many of the Bahá’ís in India and Egypt. The spirit of 'Abdu'l-Bahá is with us tonight.
The day of trying to unify humanity in a limited way is past. Neither family, tribal nor national unity has brought peace. The last stage of unity was begun sixty years ago. That same light must illumine all peoples. That same power must make all nations one. All mankind must love each other as brothers. When this height is attained there will be no more wars.
The professor described the Bahá’í convention of India, which was like the Feast of Bahá'u'lláh. All men were invited. Many societies and advanced thinkers attended. Henceforth, he said, we must address ourselves to the hundreds of thousands who are waiting to
receive the new day. Sect and schism must be removed. Unity and oneness are needed, without sect and division. We cannot organize the Spirit: but we can organize the workers in the cause.
Bahá’ís are those who give their lives, accepting prison or chains in the path of God. Service and sacrifice are needed now. Leave the rest to God. The past was too much occupied with individual salvation. Now we must consider the good of all.
In this present scene there is a wonderful picture for each and all in the unity of so many diverse elements. A little candle lighted in each heart can brighten the whole world. The ignorant past forbade us to sit, eat and talk together. But now is the joy of union. This is a message from the East. May you all be happy in this joyous springtime!
FOLLOWING the chanting of a prayer in Persian by Mrs. Zeenat Bagdadi, the chairman introduced Jináb-i-Fádil-i Mazindaráni as an ambassador from the Center of the Cause and a messenger among the assemblies, asking all minds and hearts to be open to his message.
Jináb-i-Fadil, interpreted by Mirza Ahmad Sohrab, then spoke:
This is a radiant and divine gathering, a bouquet of the rose-garden of Abhá. I would like to talk to each one of you. The Holy Spirit of Abhá is waving over this gathering. The rays of the Sun of Wisdom and Knowledge are shining in the hearts of these friends. The Feast of Riduan means rejoicing. Bahá’ís all over the world are having such gatherings, celebrating this feast with joy and happiness. How divine are these days! How epoch-making! How spiritual! They commemorate the day when His Holiness first shed his rays into the hearts. Bahá'u'lláh and 'Abdu'l-Bahá planted the tree of the Divine Cause under the greatest difficulties and tribulations. Now has come the time for you to irrigate it. This heavenly Sun did not shine save for the illumination of all religions and nations. The spiritual breeze is waiting so that the clouds of ignorance and intolerance may be dispersed and all mankind become one family. The Bahá’í Movement does not strive to unify through intellectual and political power, but through Divine Power. Its foundation is divine. Bahá'u'lláh did not use physical coercion or violence, but achieved his great aims through the love of God.
In Akka there lived a man who so hated that he would turn his back when he met him, fearing lest he lose his hatred. One day they met in such a narrow street that the enemy was forced to meet 'Abdu'l-Bahá face to face. 'Abdu'l-Bahá tapped the man upon the shoulder and said, "Wait a few moments, until I speak. However great may be your hatred for me it can never be as strong as is my love for you." The man was startled, awakened, and made to feel the unconquerable power of love. Bahá'u'lláh and 'Abdu'l-Bahá through this power have been able to transform thousands who are messengers of the Kingdom of God in this day.
A woman went to 'Abdu'l-Bahá, received his teachings and blessings, and asked for a special work. 'Abdu'l-Bahá said, "Spread the law of love. Live in accord with love, reciprocity and cooperation."
She answered, "I want something special. All are asked to do this."
'Abdu'l-Bahá answered, "Very well. Come tomorrow morning, when you are about to leave, and I will give you the special work."
She was very happy all that day and night, in anticipation.
The next day 'Abdu'l-Bahá said to her, "I am going to give you my son that you may educate him physically, mentally and spiritually."
She was surprised, and was made happy at this. But her surprise gave way to wonder when she reflected that 'Abdu'l-Bahá had no son. What could he mean?
'Abdu'l-Bahá asked, "Do you know this son of mine?"
Then he told her: In her city there had lived a man, her worst enemy. He had died leaving a son, with no one to take care of him: this was now her task. When she heard this she was overwhelmed. She was spiritually reborn. She wept and said, "My Master, I now know what the Bahá’í Cause means."
We hope and pray that in this convention there may be a Pentacostal experience. With the sword of divine wisdom may we conquer the hearts! With the light of knowledge illumine the world, and work for human welfare, happiness and solidarity, ending warfare and strife.
The glorious Feast of Riduan ended with the reading of a cablegram from Shoghi Effendi:
Haifa, April 23, 1923.
"Bagdadi.—Wishing Chicago local assembly and convention all success."
(Signed) SHOGHI.
MASHRIQU'L-ADHKAR MEETING
Temple Foundation, Wilmette
THE next morning, Sunday, was lighted by a bright, genial sunshine which continued throughout the days of the convention. The friends, like a flock of variegated doves, winged their flight with great harmony and attraction to the Mashriqu'l-Adhkár grounds, in the village of Wilmette, on the Lake shore. The progress of the building was noted with satisfaction. The solid foundation, ample proportions and signs of future greatness and beauty gave many a thrill to eager hearts. Within and without the foundation and upon its roof which will be the floor of the main auditorium many joyous faces were seen, as the friends inspected the details, exchanged hearty greetings, shared spiritual confidences and showed signs of eternal happiness. Almost in a direct line, looking from the center of the building to the Holy City of Akka, is the marked spot whereon rested the stone laid by 'Abdu'l-Bahá the day that Exalted One dedicated the grounds. After the taking of a photograph, the friends assembled in the foundation-hall, where seats were provided, and held a brief spiritual meeting.
Following the reading of a prayer Jináb-i-Fázil addressed the gathering with loving words which intensified in all hearts the heat of the heavenly Fire:
This is the time of spiritual happiness and of great rejoicing, for the dream of the ages is fulfilled in this gathering of friends of different races, religions and sects. All are gathered under the uni-colored tent of Bahá'u'lláh. In this divine assembly the faces are radiant with the love of Bahá'u'lláh. It is a sign of the day to come when all mankind will worship the same God under the Tabernacle of His love. Yet consider what a great responsibility is yours! You are the delegates not only of the United States and Canada, but of the whole world! The only way that spiritual progress, prosperity and happiness are obtained among the Bahá’ís is to turn to the Center of the Covenant and to seek at his Threshold the power that is unconquerable. What a divine privilege is yours, you who stood here many years ago, when 'Abdu'l-Bahá was present, and laid with his own hand the foundation stone of this universal edifice! How great was this privilege! No doubt whatever can there be that the people who build this heavenly edifice are confirmed by the Almighty. For 'Abdu'l-Bahá blessed it with his own hands. Let us therefore forget all else, cleanse our hearts, and turn to the Kingdom of God. May the Sun of Reality illumine them and may these hearts be as clear mirrors reflecting that Divine Luminary.
O Lord, we have come together from many different directions to declare Thy Message and Kingdom. Our one desire is to diffuse the fragrances of the rose-garden of Thy love. O Divine Educator, purify our hearts from ever restrictive idea and make these hearts the temple of Thy thoughts. Fill our minds with new purposes, hopes and visions so that, in the coming year, we may render mighty
services the memory of which will run through the years, ages and cycles.
Prof. Shirazi then spoke as follows:
Friends, I was born a Mohammedan and for forty generations my ancestors have made the pilgrimage to Mecca. I have not myself made that pilgrimage, but now I am here to kiss the stones of this universal temple. This is the building of the Temple of God. The Reality of the foundation of this temple was laid over seventy-five years ago. At that time there was martyr after martyr, as man after man and king after king tried to uproot the Cause. But now its foundation is firmly laid in every land. In every country the work goes on. Its progress is assured. We are submitting to the Builder, working in absolute unity and accord.
The song of Benediction closed the meeting at the grounds, after which the friends partook of a luncheon together, the material side of the spiritual feast.
SUNDAY AFTERNOON
Congress Session
THE afternoon of Sunday brought a large gathering to the first public meeting of the Congress for the Promulgation of Universal Peace. The special topic was the New Spiritual Consciousness.
The meeting was opened with beautiful music. Mr. Mountfort Mills of New York, the chairman, read from the words of Bahá'u'lláh:
"Consort with all the people with love and fragrance. Fellowship is the cause of unity and unity is the source of order in the world. Blessed are those who are kind and who serve with love."
He said: The Bahá’í Congress is for the promulgation of universal peace, a work in which many souls are engaged today, as many societies strive for peace among the nations. With the Bahá’ís, however, the word universal has a different and far broader significance than is covered by international relations. It means adjustment of all relations of life, cooperation in all lines of endeavor. It is infinitely wide. It answers the appeal of special values, but from this unit works out to every relationship. It is useful, and within the realm of peace, under the sway of truth. Many devoted souls are working for this end. Knowing this, why the invitation to come here? It is because here are declared the principles and message of Bahá'u'lláh which are the direct path to peace. Such conjunctive principles as the abandonment of prejudices, the establishment of an international tribunal, the unification of religions are a few of the coordinate ideals which guide those who heard his Voice and arise to aid him. Those who heed this call are no longer isolated but are now members of a world-wide body now in operation. To this cooperation you are now invited. You can thus add a unit to the mighty stream which is already universal and world-wide.
PROF. M. R. SHIRAZI on this occasion made two brief addresses in which he pled for the destruction of the idol of hate. The worship of this idol was due to the differences emphasized in, first, religions; second, nationalities; third, tongues. He decried the operation of the false spirituality which spreads the diseases of pride and hatred, and welcomed the new, with its life and freedom. He contrasted that liberty which brought chaos through a riotous lack of control with the true freedom which comes from obedience to heavenly laws. He related an experience which he had with some religious teachers of the old order in India who showed their prejudices against him and expressed fear of being contaminated by his touch. They asked him to take away with him their cup which he had used for drinking, as they would have no further use for it since it had been used by one not of their faith. He explained to them that souls who are really spiritual understand humility; that health as well as disease is contagious; that if it was true that they had great spiritual strength they should use it to
elevate those whom they considered beneath them.
MR. WILLIAM H. RANDALL of Boston was the next speaker.
Mr. Randall said that before spiritual consciousness is aroused man grows only on the plane of matter, from barn to barn as in the parable of the rich man. This man was as dead because he had no knowledge of things spiritual. But a spiritual awakening has come, for it is now the morning of the Day of God. It is but vain to look at the dying day with its pomp of material power and its ambitions and greed. Now there are early risers everywhere who are welcoming the dawn of a new day bringing spiritual vision to all mankind.
The Báb, Bahá'u'lláh and 'Abdu'l-Bahá came to bring a new spiritual consciousness. The great teachings of Bahá'u'lláh are that all humanity is one; differences in color and race do not remove the common origin of humanity. Certainly this truth is self-evident if we believe in one God, instead of many gods. Therefore there must be a common platform of worship for each and all, with one understanding. Thus each can make progress as all make it. In every race and nation are to be found the seeds of brotherhood. These teachings are the spiritual chart of the mariner, guiding him into the haven of the most great peace.
As humanity is one so should the life of the nations be one. Let us protect the weak and give justice to the poor. The peace of the world is the true salvation of humanity. In the years to come we shall have the true league of nations. Meantime we must keep our program free and open so that the whole realm of humanity may be brought together.
JINAB-I-FADIL said:
In olden days understanding of spiritual consciousness centered around the thought that true holiness was the exclusive property of certain holy men. It did not seek human welfare. In reality, such was not spiritual consciousness; it was, rather, material and natural consciousness. Such a state of mind makes man self-centered; he would rather take than give. Material and spiritual consciousness are like two opposite poles. Material consciousness is an emanation from the laboratory of nature. It implies the survival of the fittest. Hatred, animosity, bloodshed and all division in the world of nature spring from material consciousness. Spiritual consciousness is the opposite of this darkness and gloom; it shines in the heart like the sun scattering its rays: but it cannot be born through intellectual or scientific accomplishment. Let us suppose that by some magic power all religious, racial and national prejudices are swept away. Yet, if after this purging material consciousness prevails it will create other diseases, such as greed, covetousness, unfriendliness and other qualities which separate and divide. Bahá’ís strive not only to establish principles of peace but also to find the spring out of which they flow. How can we reform the world unless we have the spiritual consciousness ourselves? How can we teach knowledge if we ourselves are ignorant? As long as man is self-centered and ambitious he is like a lamp without light. Let us all go back to the fountain head. Let us find the reservoir of spiritual consciousness, which removes all hatred and misunderstanding. 'Abdu'l-Bahá, once, when giving a talk on universal peace likened the conference in Europe that was discussing the subject of peace to a conference of wine-sellers who favor prohibition yet after their conference keep their saloons wide open. The very leaders who clamored for peace were the first to declare war. Universal peace must be in the hearts. The right kind of hearts are created through spiritual power. Even if we believe not in the divine station of the Prophets we must admit them to be the wisest of men. They know how to deliver men from superstition. Through the divine power, alone, that created them did they succeed in establishing their cause. Bahá’ís who are making the greatest effort succeed
through spiritual power, dispelling the darkness of varied prejudices through the light of spiritual consciousness. Let us take a goodly portion of this food.
The chairman closed the meeting by reading extracts from the words of 'Abdu'l-Bahá:
"O ye beloved of the Lord, in this dispensation conflict and strife are in nowise permitted. Every aggressor deprives himself of God's Grace. It is incumbent upon everyone to show the utmost love, rectitude of conduct, straightforwardness and sincere kindness to all the people and kindreds of the world, be they friends or strangers. So intense must be the spirit of love and loving kindness that the stranger may find himself a friend, the enemy a true brother, no difference at all existing between them. For universality is of God and all limitations are earthly."
CHILDREN'S MEETING
ON SUNDAY evening Mrs. Grace Foster, the beloved teacher, gathered together the children and they gave an entertainment which taught many a beautiful lesson to the grown-ups as well as the juniors. The program consisted of a chant, songs, quotations and recitations of the Creative Words. Among the subjects were Words of Wisdom, the Sun of Truth, Love, the Golden City, the Heart of Man, etc. Mr. Alfred E. Lunt, who presided, spoke briefly at the close and highly praised this work of Mrs. Foster. He exhorted the elders to be mindful of the training of the children and themselves strive to emulate their purity.
Jináb-i-Fádil, with a happy face and a heart full of love, spoke to the children:
I am very happy to be with the children of the Kingdom of Abhá, so beautiful are they, and full of life. In reality we are all children. We always look back to our childhood. His Holiness 'Abdu'l-Bahá repeatedly spoke of the education of children and how parents should continually put into their minds ideas of peace and righteousness. He was an ardent lover of children and took with him wherever he went a photograph of children. He likened them to young bushes in a garden of roses. If the young trees are cared for they grow straight; if neglected, they become crooked. If a person is allowed to grow up aslant or crooked like a young tree, no human power can make it straight: only the power of the Holy Spirit can change such a person. In the Orient the meetings of the children are a source of inspiration and happiness to the adults. Their gatherings are of intense interest to everyone for they have a charm of love, simplicity and happiness not to be found elsewhere.
'Abdu'l-Bahá tells us that from the very beginning children must be taught lessons of spirituality and morality. He tells us that we must teach the children, in their childhood, only those things which will strengthen their childhood in simplicity of life. The children memorize the wonderful lessons, compilations and recitations with the utmost love and devotion.
There was a family in Persia where the husband, but not the wife, was a Bahá’í. Their little daughter went with her father to the meetings and sat night after night, all attention. Her father asked me if I would like to know the result. I answered yes. He told me that the little girl was repeating, like a phonograph, to her mother, all that I said. Later the father reported to me that his wife had become a Bahá’í, taught by her little daughter.
One day I saw a little girl going to school.
"You, so little, going to school?" I inquired.
"Have you not heard," she answered, "that it is necessary to study science, literature and arts?"
Then she quoted wonderfully the words of Bahá'u'lláh and 'Abdu'l-Bahá. I asked her. "What is a Bahá’í?
She answered: "A Bahá’í is a collective
center of all the qualities and perfections of the world of humanity."
These remarks caused me to wonder at the power of a movement which made this little girl a dynamo of knowledge. Let us also remember the words of Christ about the children. This is a glorious age, when all these heavenly aims and principles will be fulfilled. How great will be the station of these little children in the Abhá Kingdom, so mighty and universal. Let us teach the children—but let us, first, teach ourselves so that the future ages will be full of light, of new hope and new accomplishment.
Dr. Bagdadi distributed among the children gifts from Mrs. Victoria Bedikian and from children in Germany and Japan. He told several humorous stories to illustrate to the children how they could sacrifice for the Temple. Other speakers were Miss Ella Robarts, editor of the Magazine of the Children of the Kingdom, who told of the work of the children with the Temple cards in raising funds; Mrs, Grace Ober, who told of the loving ways of 'Abdu'l-Bahá with the children; and Prof. Shirazi, who addressed the children with great affection, saying: You are everything to us. We must respect and love you. You are the ornaments of your fathers and mothers and the gems of the Bahá’í world.
Mr. Lunt, as chairman, referred very feelingly to the work of Mrs. Bedikian, and read the words of 'Abdu'l-Bahá, with the promise of divine confirmations to those who teach.
THE SPIRIT OF THE CONVENTION
First Day
JINAB-I-FADIL opened the convention sessions by chanting the verses of God. Mr. Mountfort Mills, calling the convention to order for business, said: The message is brought to us that childhood is past and we must now stand erect, by ourselves but not for ourselves. We are to step along, shoulder to shoulder, side by side, with all the other Bahá’í bodies throughout the world. Whatever is done here affects the Bahá’í Cause throughout the world. Hence there is a particular burden in our efforts.
Jináb-i-Fádil spoke: At this first session are many important matters, teaching, the Mashriqu'l-Adhkár, publications, etc. These great services cannot be rendered merely by intellectual processes. The life of Bahá'u'lláh must inspire and thrill each delegate, that each one may attain to the ocean of the new life. We must work for the good of the Cause throughout the world. How can you establish it unless moved by this spiritual power? The potency of the spirit can be generated in us only by the love of God and by turning our faces to God.
The convention was temporarily organized, electing Alfred E. Lunt temporary president and Louis G. Gregory temporary secretary. Messrs. Remey and Oglesby and Mrs. Morten were named as a committee on credentials.
From Carmel, the Mountain of God, came the following cablegram with its ringing appeal from the Commander to his soldiers, for service:
"Haifa, April 21, 1923.
"Delegates and Friends at Convention, Care. A. Lunt, Boston.
"That this year's convention may through the outpourings of His Grace weld all hearts together, infuse the souls with a fresh and deeper consciousness of the spirit of the Cause and inaugurate an unexampled campaign of teaching is indeed my ardent prayer. Let this be Riduan's message: Unite! Deepen! Arise!"
(Signed) SHOGHI.
The chairman made an eloquent plea for the fusing of our spirits through the love of God, like the disciples of Christ on the mountain of old as described by Abdu'l-Bahá, so that all purposes might be one.
A cablegram from Mrs. Claudia Stuart Coles, England, read:
"Riduan greetings to convention. Loving prayers for divine outpourings."
A telegram from Dr. Albert Durrant Watson, Toronto, Canada, read:
"Loving greetings to friends now in
session. Pray that river of Divine Love and Light may flow to the friends. Justice and fragrance from Riduan fill earth with universal peace."
The chairman read to the convention the letter of Shoghi Effendi, directing the reorganization of spiritual assemblies throughout America and the apportionment of delegates in the convention on a new basis, giving emphasis, among many things, to teaching, which is given the first rank, the Mashriqu'l-Adhkár, publications, their supervision, the National Spiritual Assembly and its evolution and the fund. The high call to service, the divine order, harmony, and enthusiasm of this letter riveted the attention of the delegates and laid the foundation for their deliberations during the next three days.
Mrs. Corinne True, the financial secretary, reported contributions to the Bahá’í Temple from thirty-four countries and acknowledged the great assistance rendered her by Miss Kokab MacCutcheon, who installed a new, loose leaf system of bookkeeping, which enables the financial secretary to know at once what each assembly has done for the Temple.
The report of Mr. Randall, the treasurer, followed, in which his system of bookkeeping, through a public accountant, was explained.
THE report of the Committee on credentials was received and adopted.
The convention then entered upon its permanent organization, retaining by election, its temporary officers. All business done by the temporary organization was, on motion adopted, made a part of the permanent organization.
Mrs. Mariam Haney, reporting for the National Teaching Committee, recommended a greatly enlarged program. The plan outlined for Jináb-i-Fádil is that he should visit all the principal cities of America and Canada.
MONDAY EVENING.
Congress Session
THE general subject of the congress on this occasion was the Oneness of Mankind. Mrs. Ella G. Cooper of San Francisco, was chairman. She read from the Creative Words and made a brief address upon the great theme of the evening, giving emphasis to the unity of mankind. Bahá'u'lláh has compared the different peoples and races of the world to the flowers in a garden. Like the natural flowers the human flowers should grow and develop side by side, each reflecting the wonders of God's creation and the beauty of the sunshine and at all times striving for harmony in diversity. That the Bahá’ís were trying to live this principle was illustrated, she said, by the races, nationalities and tongues represented on the program of this evening, from all of which would come notes of oneness and unity.
Louis Gregory was the first speaker to respond to her happy words of introduction, saying, in part:
The oneness of humanity is one of the most glorious rays from the Sun of Truth, bringing life and light to all men. Its brightness removes the gloom, chaos and ignorance of a warring world. Its proof is easy; its practice difficult. Oneness can be upheld by arguments based upon experiment, reasoning, science and tradition. But above all it has the dignity of Divine Revelation.
All men who pause to study will find among themselves more points of unity than of discord. The elements that now enter into our physical temples have had their coursings through the lower kingdoms, to which they return. During the cycles and eons they have journeyed through millions of human bodies other than our own. From the standpoint of kindred, too, all people are related. One who takes the trouble to count his ancestors will find that even during a few centuries these aggregate millions, to say naught of affinities and collateral kin. Reflection makes clear the wisdom of
him who declared the oneness of blood in the creation of all nations. There is likewise a community of thoughts and ideals, reflected by the realities of all men. A learned man thinks more than one who is undeveloped; but the canons of logic and the processes of correct reasoning are for each and all the same.
But however strong arguments may be they create no lasting tie without spiritual power. Human oneness is never through physical violence or even mental power. Only those who advance toward God can grasp its true meaning. Unity with God means oneness with man! Understanding the Divine Purpose sheds light upon man's reality and forges the bond of unity with all his fellow beings. The spiritual Reality brings universal love, linking together all races, nations and religions. The majestic might of Bahá'u'lláh now bestows this heavenly Bounty. It brightness shines from the Orb of the Covenant. Its Guardianship, tender and wise, protects all men.
JINAB-I-FADIL followed: How easy it is to mention the principle of oneness, yet how difficult to fulfill its gigantic task! From time immemorial this ideal has been felt that all the children of men should be one. The poets of the past have sung this song and many gems in literature and philosophy contain the dream of oneness. The great poet of Persia, Sadi, wrote a very comprehensive poem on this subject. The children of men are indeed one body for originally they were created from the same substance. When one member feels pain and suffering all the other members suffer. Spiritual ideals of oneness have descended to us as a heritage and there is no doubt that the day will come when hate is forgotten and love is enthroned. The great creational law of the Almighty is the greatest proof that humanity is one. Man is created physically, mentally, spiritually according to the same general pattern. In the world of creation God has placed no difference. The same breezes blow upon all. The same rain falls on the just and the unjust. The same good gifts are shared by all the people of the world. There are certain natural differences between the kingdoms of existence, but all these differences only add to the charm and beauty of nature. How charming and delightful to see diversity amongst the beings! Differences in the natural world are only stepping stones of progress and happiness.
On the other hand, some differences are not natural. They are the creatures of superstition. How unfortunate it is that racial prejudices have affected the realm of humanity! Religious prejudices are the children of hatred and fanaticism. Religion in reality is the cause of love. Differences growing out of religion are man made. They are swords placed in our hands by the demon of hate, so that we may kill our own children. Is there any doubt that the founders of religion came to establish love and unity among the sons of men? Yet the followers of religions today think that these Prophets were generals, issuing orders of discord and destruction. Look at the animal world. Amid domestic animals of the same kind no prejudices are found. But man, who thinks himself the friend and child of God, shows prejudices that put the animal to shame. Bring together a number of cows from different countries and they would not harm each other. They would graze together in the same pasture and raise no objection to each other. But how often does the inhumanity of man in this enlightened century make man unhappy! Such conduct is due to greed, selfishness and ambition.
Once 'Abdu'l-Bahá, to illustrate this point, told the story of a fat mullah who was praying in a mosque in one of the Oriental cities. A man who saw him and who had some money promised a nearby beggar a pound if he would slap the neck of the mullah. The beggar took the pound and gave the mullah a slap on the neck, then offered excuses, claiming mistaken identity. The mullah accepted the excuse and returned to prayer. The man gave the beggar another pound and
the beggar gave the mullah another slap, again excusing himself. Another pound resulted in still another slap. The mullah became very angry, declined to accept any more excuses, and demanded of the beggar why he thus pursued him with insults. The beggar replied, "Just as long as you have that fat neck and that man has money, so long will I mete out to you this chastisement!"
Even so, as long as we have greed, hatred, superstitions and imaginations in our hearts we shall have wars and be far removed from the millennium. We are in need of a supernatural power to change the hearts of men. That power was given by Bahá'u'lláh, the founder of the Movement. Since the appearance of this divine Cause in Persia many years ago its influence has spread far and wide banishing hatred and strife from humanity. It creates a spiritual unity in the hearts of men. In order that this unity might spread through the world twenty thousand people gave up their lives joyfully. This divine revelation is so powerful that it has united Orientals and Occidentals to such extent that they are willing to give up their lives for one another. This is the century of light through the spiritual Bounty. The drawing together of races and religions is realized. The flag of universal peace will be raised from the apex of the world. The oneness of the world will reveal mankind as the stars of one heaven, the leaves of one tree and the voices in one melody of Celestial music.
THE SPIRIT OF THE CONVENTION
Second Day
CHORUS: "Nearer My God to Thee!" Prayer of Visitation, read by the President. Mrs. Parsons read from a Tablet of Bahá'u'lláh:
"It has been our aim to uplift men through exalted words unto the Supreme Horizon and prepare them to hearken unto that which conduces to the sanctifying and purifying of the people of the world from the strife and discard resulting from differences in religions and sects. O friends! In this Day the Door of Heaven is opened by the key of the Godly Name, the Ocean of Generosity is manifested and is rolling before your faces, and the Sun of Providence is shining and gleaming; do not be exclusive, nor destroy your most precious time through the speech of this or that person. Gird up the loins of endeavor and do your best in training the people of the world. Do not imagine that the cause of God is a cause of opposition, hatred and wrath. The Tongue of Greatness hath said that which is revealed from the Heaven of Will in this Supreme Manifestation is to unite the people with love and friendship toward all. The people of Bahá who have drunk of the pure Wine of Reality must associate with all the world with a perfect spirit of joy and fragrance and remind them of that which is for the benefit of all. This is the commandment of the Wronged One to his saints and sincere ones.
"O people of the earth! Make not the religion of God a cause for variance among you. Verily, of a truth it was revealed for the purpose of unifying the whole world. Blessed is he who loves the world simply for the sake of the face of his Generous Lord. We did not come except for the purpose of uniting whomsoever is upon the earth and bringing them into perfect harmony and agreement."
Mr. Black of Pittsburgh, with a heart overflowing with thankfulness for the Bounty of today praised Miss Martha Root for her great services in the Cause.
Major Henry J. Burt, the structural engineer of the Temple, reported the total amount expended to date in construction as follows:
Survey of Meridian Line | $ 150.00 |
Foundations to rock | 76,350.00 |
McCarty contract for basement structure | 103,500.00 |
Installing water pipe | 623.69 |
Installing electrical connections and temporary lighting | 261.60 |
Waterproofing a portion of concrete work | 550.00 |
Total | $186,435.20 |
Mr. Bourgeois favored as the next improvements on the basement, 1. A floor, 2. Prismatic lights, 3. A tunnel.
Mr. Alfred Anderson, who has during the past year rendered such valuable service as the guardsman and care-taker of the structure, spoke brief but telling words: I have been engaged in construction work all my life and am convinced that you have the strongest building that can be built by the hand of man. There is a stream of visitors ever coming. The message has been given to thousands. The sooner the Temple is completed the sooner the message will be widely spread. Even the basement thus far completed does a great service.
Mrs. Brooker of Akron, gave an account of the teaching work in that city, and how successfully it has been carried on.
Mirza Ahmad Sohrab, in a talk with the friends gave a picturesque description of what he thought the new National Assembly, soon to be elected, should be. It should be like a rose, exhaling perfume; like a star, shedding lustre, like a rain-laden cloud, with life-giving moisture; like a nightingale, sweetly singing; like a well in the oasis of the desert, refreshing the thirsty; like a shady tree, protecting man and beast; like pearls and diamonds, decorating the necks of all humanity; like a search-light, illuminating the dark places and pointing the goal.
The committee on publications, reporting through Mr. Randall, gave encouraging signs of progress in the expansion of the work. The cooperation of all the assemblies was asked in the distribution and sale of books on hand so that new ones may be published.
Miss Edna True gave a report for the STAR OF THE WEST, the official Bahá’í Magazine, which, during the past year has been under the direction of the National Spiritual Assembly. She spoke of the increase of subscriptions, the enthusiastic devotion of the friends in serving the STAR OF THE WEST, in securing subscriptions and caring for renewals. She also spoke of the increasing sale of the bound volumes. Shoghi Effendi has made this magazine "our" STAR OF THE WEST and has asked that Assemblies all over the world contribute well-chosen, well-written articles and news items. Many Assemblies are securing and sending in subscriptions as a regular Assembly activity.
There was also a report of the policy of the STAR OF THE WEST to present each month the Heavenly Principles in all the glory of their universality, to reflect the signs of the times, to give the news of the majestic onward march of the Cause of God in all countries and to bring continually to the friends ever fresh inspiration from the fountain of divine utterance.
The convention, after mature deliberation, elected the following as the National Spiritual Assembly for the ensuing year: William H. Randall, Alfred E. Lunt, Horace Holley, Roy C. Wilhelm, Louis G. Gregory, Mrs, Corinne True, Mrs. Ella G. Cooper, Mrs. Agnes S. Parsons, Charles Mason Remey. This body later organized with the following officers: Mr, Randall, president and treasurer; Mr. Lunt, secretary; Mrs. Parsons, vice-president; Mrs. True, financial secretary.
TUESDAY EVENING
Congress Session
THE general subject of this meeting, which taxed the seating capacity of the hall as did all the public meetings, was the Oneness of Religion. Mrs. Nellie S. French of Pasadena presiding, said:
I never conduct a Bahá’í meeting without wishing that the Bahá’í Cause could be presented from every angle, thus answering every question. If understanding of the fulfillment of prophecies is sought, here it is found. If it is literature that is enjoyed, nowhere else is there to be found such a precious treasure trove of the choicest gems. If education is demanded, here is the ideal training for both men and women. The Bahá’í Cause
answers the modern requirements of the economic problem with justice and wisdom. All questions are answered by the message of Bahá'u'lláh. If religion really means returning to God, if its true significance is sympathetic touch with the Infinite, certainly life, service and growth will come to those who serve this Cause. All are invited to read the Bahá’í literature where you will find a fuller presentation and be greatly rewarded in your search.
Mr. Albert Vail spoke of the universal house of worship, the Mashriqu'l-Adhkár. One of the greatest signs of universality is universality of appeal. Emerson said that only twelve people in a generation can understand Plato: this is put forward as a sign of his greatness. But would not Plato be greater if more people could understand him? The Bahá’í Educators adapt their teachings to all types of people.
Many are now asking for a sign of universality and love. But the army of the Lord, divided into sects, cannot answer this call. The forces of God must be united if they would turn the darkness into light. Since Christianity is now divided into over a hundred sects, and the other religions are likewise divided, a fusing, unifying power is needed among all. The Temple at Wilmette is the first universal house of worship to be built in America. It stands on the North Shore, in a remarkable location. It was recently stated by an architect that if the capital of the United States should be removed to Chicago the best site for the location of its principal building, the capitol, would be that of the Bahá’í Temple at Wilmette.
The nine paths leading to the Bahá’í Temple are a symbol of the nine great religions, now active. There are nine doors by which one may enter the temple of love. There the voices of praise will ascend to the Ideal King. In prayer and silence one can commune in early morning with the God of all religions.
Around this central Temple various philanthropic and educational institutions expressing in concrete form the oneness of mankind, harmony between science and religion, will be erected. Science is one of the reflections of God's Truth. In these institutions it will be combined with religion. Here divine love will express itself in practical service to all men. Here a hospice will entertain visitors and a universal hospital will treat both material and spiritual ills.
The beauty of this temple makes a universal appeal. Instructions are given in the writings of Bahá'u'lláh, that such temples be built in utmost beauty. But supreme over all is the Power of the Holy Spirit. This is the motive Power for the divine enthusiasm and the sacrifices necessary to put these ideals into practice. A visitor to the Temple recently said: "Although I am an atheist, yet as I read of the purposes of this Temple, I wish to worship within it."
Miss Alpha Bratton sang a solo, "Prepare to Meet Thy God." She was very happily received and repeatedly called upon for enchores.
JINAB-I-FADIL: We have had during the last few days many divine meetings and many spiritual gatherings. Day after day and night after night our ears have been attuned to the melodies and the dreams of the coming of this new age—a Temple where all the religions of the world may worship, the oneness of the world of humanity, a universal auxiliary language, a day when universal brotherhood is enthroned in the hearts.
When a person hears these principles he is delighted; but then he will often say, "Utopian! Very beautiful, but impossible! Do you not see the world surrounded by darkness." Sceptics think such a plan wholly impractical.
But there is nothing on the face of the earth which is impossible for man to accomplish. Many are the diseases attacking the body politic; but they will all vanish under the treatment of a skillful physician. See the advancement of useful
--PHOTO--
Annual Convention, April 28th-May 3rd, 1923. Delegates and friends on the roof of the foundation-hall of the Temple, the Mashriqu'l-Adhkar, at Wilmette, Illinois, Sunday morning, April 28th. This roof will be the floor of the main auditorium over which will rise the glorious dome of the Temple. In the background are Wilmette, Sheridan Road and Lake Michigan. The view of the beautiful blue Lake fills the whole eastern horizon.
science, and how this has happened in the face of things seemingly impossible! Who a short time ago could have imagined the wonders of electricity or the evolution of the air-ship? Our children and grandchildren will see and enjoy much that we now fail to realize.
Our aims are very high, our hearts are full of hope, our steps are firm, our resolution is unshakable; and we will work and we will labor and we will make the supreme effort and all our hopes will be fulfilled. Does it matter if we do not see the realization of our dreams? Future generations, our grandchildren will see it.
An old man was once seen planting a tree, the story goes. He was asked why did he thus, as he could not live to enjoy the shade and fruit of these trees. He replied that his ancestors had provided for him and now he must in turn provide for posterity.
Then Jináb-i-Fádil showed through a brilliant analysis the underlying unity of all the world religions. They all teach according to the needs and capacities of the students of their day the existence of God, the immortality of the soul, the Golden Rule, the same great principles of ethics, morality and unity. In highly figurative and symbolic form they portray the genesis, the creation of the world. When we study and behold the unity in religions the work of uniting them seems much easier. Jináb-i-Fádil then illustrated from his own experience the marvelous power of the Bahá’í Teachings to unite diverse religions. He told of how he had seen Jewish Bahá’ís, Mohammedan Bahá’ís, Christian Bahá’ís all meeting together in the utmost love and unity. When mankind partakes of universal religion unity will be established in the hearts.
MAJOR HENRY J. BURT, the structural engineer of the Temple, made an address, illustrated with lantern slides, of the Mashriqu'l-Adhkár, saying in part:
The things which make a building beautiful are its general proportions, its color, its details of ornamentation, its appropriateness to its purpose and its setting. . . . The Temple in Wilmette is to be a beautiful building. It will have such proportions as to make it appear of natural form rather than exaggerated in form. It will be rich in decoration consistently carried out, yet without a lot of useless refinement of details in places where they do not contribute to the general appearance of the building. Its color will be nearly white, which is appropriate to a building of such a monumental character.
The Temple is being built from plans made by Mr. Louis Bourgeois, an architect of many years' experience and great artistic ability. His design was selected in a competition among a number of architects, held in New York in 1920. All of the competitors were of the Bahá’í faith, and thus had the inspiration and enthusiasm of their religious belief to aid them in their efforts. In presenting his design to the committee, Mr. Bourgeois submitted a model of the building which he had modeled and carved largely with his own hands, a most painstaking and tedious work. This model was sent to Chicago and exhibited at the Art Institute in May, 1921, where it attracted much attention. As soon as a suitable place is available at the Temple it will be reassembled there. This model was so carefully made that it was closely followed in making full-size detail drawing.
THE convention, as a medium of expression and a bond of unity between the assemblies and the National Spiritual Assembly shone throughout with many gems of reality. Earnest speech voiced the sincerity of hearts vibrant with divine love and always clearer and clearer it became that the Cause moves majestically forward to a
new stage of joint efforts, coordination and greater service to all the people of the world. As the hands of service strengthen may the power of love increase and with it the joy of those who know the value of the time!
"Happy are those who are winning a place in the Kingdom!"
HE IS THE ALMIGHTY, THE PARDONER, THE ALL-MERCIFUL.
O God, my God! Thou seest these wayward servants of Thine lost in the wilderness of error; where is Thy Light of Divine Guidance, O Thou the Desire of the world! Thou knowest their frailty and their feebleness; vouchsafe Thy Power, O Thou that holdest in Thy grasp all that is in heaven and on earth!
I ask of Thee, O Lord, my God, by the splendours of the Light of Thy Lovingkindness, by the billows of the Ocean of Thy Knowledge and Wisdom, and by Thy Word wherewith Thou swayed the peoples of Thy Dominion, to cause me to become of them that have been graciously aided to observe that which Thou hast commanded them in Thy Book. And do Thou ordain for me that which Thou didst ordain for Thy trusted ones, them that have quaffed the celestial Wine of Divine Inspiration from the chalice of Thy Bounty, them that have hastened to follow Thy Desire, and have guarded Thy Covenant and Thy Testament.
Powerful art Thou to do as Thou willest; there is none other God but thee, the All-Knowing, the All-Wise,
Grant me, by Thy Favour, O my Lord, that which shall profit me in this world and hereafter, and draw me nigh unto Thee, O Lord of all mankind!
There is none other God but Thee, the One, the Gracious, the All-Praised.
Prayer revealed by Bahá'u'lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi.
O Lord, my Lord!
This is the day which Thy Sacred Tongue and Thy Pen of Glory both have sanctified, and made it a day of heavenl blessings, of divine benediction and favour. Thou hast honoured it with Thy bestowals, endued it with Thy Grace, and invested it with Thy Glory, and caused it to be a day of joy and gladness unto them that have turned to the Light of Thy Divine Revelation; that the hearts may thereby be gladdened, that the radiance of happiness may illumine the lives of them that remember the manifestation of Thy Glory upon Thy Sacred Mount.
Hallow it, O Lord, with Thy grace, and make it a day of joy and blessedness and for Thy loved ones, that have stood fast and firm in Thy Covenant, Thy friends that have sung Thy Praise, and especially for this servant of Thine that hath turned his face to Thy Holy Kingdom, supplicated the glory of Thy might and power, circled Thy throne of grandeur and fell prostrate at Thy threshold of Divine Mercy.
Thou art the Gracious, the Bountiful, the All-Merciful.
A prayer revealed by 'Abdu'l-Bahá in memory of the Day of Nawruz. Translated by Shoghi Effendi.
These two prayers and the "Soul Stirring Words of 'Abdu'l-Bahá" on page 87, were received by the National Spiritual Assembly during the Convention.
ONE of the most important gatherings of the Convention was the conference for the discussion of new methods in education. Shoghi Effendi has emphasized many times during the past year that this is the time for teaching, that teaching is important above all else. And in the mirrors of the hearts has come the response. We must begin with the children. They are the children of the New Race. We must search dilligently for the most perfect means of educating them in accordance with the guidance of the great Educator, Bahá'u'lláh.
Therefore the delegates and friends met on Saturday morning, April twenty-eighth for a conference on education. Mrs. Ober, as chairman, called for reports upon the work being done in the Assemblies among the children.
Mrs. Stuart W. French of Pasadena, California, told of the work which has been carried on in her home. She told of a prize which was offered to a group of young people, from nine to twenty years of age, for the best composition written upon one of the fundamental principles of the Bahá’í Cause. The papers submitted were so remarkable that four judges had to be called in from outside, in order to decide which was best. The children showed a breadth of thought and depth of insight which astonished everyone, showing that, as another speaker pointed out, "a new child is being born for the New Age."
Mrs. Howard Struven of Worcester, Massachusetts, spoke of how, in this New Day the lives of both parents and children must be founded upon the Word of God, of how they must stand, together, in obedience to the Law of God. The child seeing clearly this Universal Law will be no longer a rebel but will become self-restrained through choice and reason, and will enter into the true relation of friendship and understanding with his parents.
Mrs. Bolles of Montreal, Canada, told of the success of the "Fellowship of Youth," established in Montreal to draw together the young people of every religion and creed. In the meetings of this society their attention can be directed to the great world problems of the day and the Universal Principles which are the remedy for them.
Miss Ella Robarts gave a report on the work of the Magazine of the Children of the Kingdom, which received its name from 'Abdu'l-Bahá. She told of its beginning, its rapid growth, its articles written by the children, of its service in guiding the children in the pathway of the Kingdom.
Many of the friends spoke inspiringly of the work with the children in their Assemblies, and from each came the thought that, deposited in the children of today are new and mightier powers than the world has ever known, and that it is our greatest trust to guard their unfoldment and direct them to the realization of the Kingdom of God on earth.
Mrs. Gertrude Stevens Ayers of Chicago, of the Progressive Education Association, told of her own realization of the New Child of this day, and of her turning from the old form of education into the new. The deep reverence of this speaker for childhood filled all hearts, and seemed to wash away much of the old, and to clarify the vision of that perfect education for every child which is the keynote of the Bahá’í Cause.
Then followed addresses by Jináb-i-Fádil
and Prof. Shirazi, who each brought words of joy and inspiration.
Mr. Ober, in closing this conference, told of his teaching journey with Mr. Harris to India and how the Master said to them, in Haifa, that whenever problems or questions arose, "Turn your hearts to God. You will be helped. Even if you do not say one word, great results will follow."
From the General Epistle of Shoghi Effendi
The beloved of the Lord, and the handmaids of the Merciful throughout America, Great Britain, Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy, Japan and Australasia. Fellow-workers in the Vineyard of God:
Over a year has elapsed since that calamitous Hour when the glorious Person of 'Abdu'l-Bahá was veiled from mortal eyes and His Spirit ascended the Kingdom of Glory; and I feel that the time is now ripe to take those fresh and momentous decisions which will enable us to fulfill, speedily and faithfully, the last wishes of our departed Master.
The year has been to the outside world a year of fear and suffering, of disillusion and turmoil. To us, however, the bereaved followers of a gracious and loving Master, it has been, despite the passing cares which His sudden departure must necessarily entail, a period of hope, of wholesome activity, marked throughout with a spirit of undiminished confidence in His power and of fidelity to His Cause.
From the East and from the West, from the North and from the South, the unnumbered servants of Bahá'u'lláh, disdainful of the evil machinations of the enemies of His Cause, the breakers of His behests, have rallied to His Standard, and risen with one accord to carry on the great Work He has entrusted to their charge, All-hail to that undying Spirit of Fidelity which burns, and shall burn unceasingly, in the breasts of His loved ones! Great shall be their reward, and blissful the hour, when after a toilsome life of service, they are gathered to the glory of Bahá, and partake in their Beloved's Presence, of the joy of eternal Reunion.
But great achievements still await us in this world, and we feel confident that, by His grace and never-failing guidance, we shall now and ever prove ourselves worthy to fulfill His great Purpose for mankind. And who can fail to realize the sore need of bleeding humanity, in its present state of uncertainty and peril, for the regenerating Spirit of God, manifested this Day so powerfully in this Divine Dispensation? Four years of unprecedented warfare and world cataclysms, followed by another four years of bitter disappointment and suffering, have stirred deeply the conscience of mankind, and opened the eyes of an unbelieving world to the Power of the Spirit that alone can cure its sickness, heal its wounds, and establish the long-promised reign of undisturbed prosperity and peace.
Now surely, if ever, is the time for us, the chosen ones of Bahá'u'lláh and the bearers of His Message to the world, to endeavour, by day and by night, to deepen, first and foremost, the Spirit of
His Cause in our own individual lives, and then labour, and labour incessantly to exemplify in all our dealings with our fellow-men that noble Spirit of which His beloved Son Abdu'l-Bahá, has been all the days of His life a true and unique exponent. The sayings of our beloved Master have been noised abroad, His name has filled all regions, and the eyes of mankind are now turned expectant towards His disciples who bear His name and profess His teachings. Shall we not by our daily life vindicate the high claims of His teachings, and prove by our services the influence of His undying Spirit? This surely is our highest privilege, and our most sacred duty.
Let us, with a pure heart, with humility and earnestness, turn afresh to His counsels and exhortations, and seek from that Source of Celestial Potency all the guidance, the Spirit, the power which we shall need for the fulfillment of our mission in this life.
Behold, the Station to which 'Abdu'l-Bahá is now calling His loved ones from the Realm of Glory:
"It behooveth the loved ones of God to be enamoured of one another and to sacrifice themselves for their fellow-workers in the Cause. They should yearn towards one another even as the sore athirst yearneth for the Water of Life, and the lover burneth to meet his heart's desire."
Such is the sublime, the glorious position He wishes us, and all the peoples and kindreds on earth to attain in this world; how much more to achieve unity and common understanding among ourselves, and then arise to herald with one voice the coming of the Kingdom and the salvation of mankind.
With unity of purpose firmly established in our minds, with every trace of personal animosity banished from our hearts, and with the spirit of wholehearted and sustained fellowship kindled in our souls, can we hope to deliver effectively the Message of Bahá'u'lláh, and execute faithfully the various provisions of our Beloved's Will and Testament.
Steadfast in our faith, firm in our union, abounding in our hope, fervent in our spirit, and selfless in our labours, let us arise and with prayerful hearts make another and supreme to fulfill these last words of our Beloved, His most cherished desire:
"O ye that stand fast in the Covenant! When the hour cometh that this wronged and broken winged bird will have taken its flight unto the Celestial Concourse, when it will have hastened to the Realm of the Unseen, and its mortal frame will have either been lost or hidden neath the dust, it is incumbent upon the Afnán that are steadfast in the Covenant of God and have branched from the Tree of Holiness, the Hands of the Cause of God, (the glory of the Lord rest upon them), and all the friends and loved ones, one and all, to bestir themselves and arise with heart and soul and in one accord to the sweet savours of God, to teach His Cause and to promote His Faith. It behoveth them not to rest for a moment, neither to seek repose. They must disperse themselves in every land, pass by every clime, and travel throughout all regions. Bestirred, without rest, and steadfast to the end, they must raise in every land the triumphal cry of Yá Bahá il-Abhá!, must achieve renown in the world wherever they go, must burn brightly even as a candle in every meeting, and must kindle the flame of Divine Love in every assembly; that the Light of Truth may arise resplendent in the midmost heart of the world, that throughout the East and throughout the West a vast concourse may gather under the shadow of the Word of God, that the sweet savours of Holiness may be diffused, that faces may shine radiantly, hearts be filled with the Divine Spirit and souls be made heavenly. In these days the most important of all things is the guidance of the nations and the peoples of the world. Teaching the Cause is of utmost importance, for it is the head cornerstone of the foundation itself. This wronged servant has spent his days and nights in promoting the Cause, and
urging the peoples to service. He rested not a moment, till the fame of the Cause of God was noised abroad in the world, and the celestial Strains from the Abhá Kingdom roused the East and the West. The beloved of God must also follow the same example. This is the secret of faithfulness, this is the requirement of servitude to the Threshold of Bahá."
We need but glance at the Words of Bahá'u'lláh and the Epistles of 'Abdu'l-Bahá to realize the great privilege of teaching the Cause, its vital necessity, its supreme urgency, and its wide-reaching effects. These are the very words of 'Abdu'l-Bahá:
"In these days, the Holy Ones of the Realm of Glory, dwelling in the all-highest Paradise, yearn to return unto this world, and be of some service to the Cause of Bahá'u'lláh and prove their servitude to the Threshold of the Abhá Beauty."
What a wondrous vision these words unfold to our eyes! How great our privilege to labour in this Day in the Divine Vineyard! Is it not incumbent upon us to arise and teach His Cause with such an ardour which no worldly adversity can quell, nor any measure of success can satiate? . . .
* * *
But let us be on our guard—so the Master continually reminds us from His Station on high—lest too much concern in that which is secondary in importance, and too long a preoccupation with the details of our affairs and activities, make us neglectful of the most essential, the most urgent of all our obligations, namely to bury our cares and teach the Cause, delivering far and wide this Message of Salvation to a sorely-stricken world.
To His valiant combatants on earth, who at times may feel disheartened, our ever-victorious Commander, 'Abdu'l-Bahá, gives the following assurance:
"O ye servants of the Sacred Threshold! The triumphant Hosts of the Celestial Concourse, arrayed and marshaled in the Realms above, stand ready and expectant to assist and assure victory to that valiant horseman who with confidence spurs on his charger into the arena of service. Well is it with that fearless warrior, who armed with the power of true Knowledge, hastens unto the field, disperses the armies of ignorance, and scatters the hosts of error, who holds aloft the Standard of Divine Guidance, and sounds the Clarion of Victory. By the righteousness of the Lord! He hath achieved a glorious triumph and obtained the true victory. . . ."
With such inspiring words as these, are we to remain any longer unmoved and inactive? His trumpet-call resounds on every side, and summons us to service; are we to tarry and hesitate? His Voice is calling aloud from every land; let us march on, unfettered and unafraid, and fulfill our glorious Destiny.
(Signed) SHOGHI.
From the General Letter, dated, March 12, 1923.
--PATTERN--
O ye handmaids of the Lord!
In this, the century of the Lord, the Almighty, the Day-Star of the Realms above, the Light of Truth shineth from its zenith in full splendour and its rays are shed upon all regions. For this is the age of the Ancient Beauty, the day of the revelation of the might and power of the Most Great Name (may my life be offered up as a sacrifice unto His loved ones).
In the ages to come, though the Cause of God may rise and grow a hundredfold, and the shadow of the Sadratu'l-Muntahá encompass all mankind, yet this present century shall stand unrivalled in that it hath witnessed the break of that Morn and the rise of that Sun. This century is verily the source of His Light, and the Dayspring of His Revelation. Future ages and generations shall behold the diffusion of its radiance, and the manifestation of its signs.
Wherefore exert yourselves, haply ye may obtain your full share and portion of His bestowals.
The glory of glories rest upon you.
O ye homeless and wanderers in the Path of God!
Prosperity, contentment, and freedom, however much desired and conducive to the gladness of the human heart, can in no wise compare with the trials of homelessness and adversity in the pathway of God; for such exile and banishment are blessed by the Divine Favour, and are surely followed by the Mercy of Providence. The joy of tranquillity in one's home, and the sweetness of freedom from all cares shall pass away, whilst the blessing of homelessness shall endure forever, and its far-reaching results shall be made manifest.
Abraham's migration from his native land caused the bountiful gifts of the All-Glorious to be made manifest, and the setting of Canaan's brightest star unfolded to the eyes the radiance of Joseph. The flight of Moses, the Prophet of Sinai, revealed the Flame of the Lord's burning Fire, and the rise of Jesus breathed the breaths of the Holy Spirit into the world. The departure of Muhammed, the Beloved of God, from the city of his birth was the cause of the exaltation of God's Holy Word, and the banishment of the Sacred Beauty led to the diffusion of the Light of His Divine Revelation throughout all regions.
Take ye good heed, O people of insight!
O ye beloved of the Lord! O ye His trusted ones!
Know ye verily that the denizens of the Realm on High, the dwellers in the habitations of Glory, laud and glorify the company of the faithful on earth, who raise their voice with one accord and sing the praise of the Lord and magnify His holy Name. Exalted be the Lord, my God, the All-Glorious! I swear by the Beauty of His Face, by the Light of His Countenance, by the Dayspring of Glory: were earthly gatherings to walk in the ways of the company of the Immortals on High, they would surely mirror forth, in all their beauty, the splendours of the Celestial Concourse, and unfold the mysteries of the Abha Kingdom. The greater their purity, the greater their reflected splendour.
Wherefore, let us arise, let us bestir ourselves, let us rally round the Standard of the One True God, and gather together under the shadow of the Lord's Sacred Tree, the Tree that hath voiced
the Call of God and uttered the Word of Truth. This is indeed, in the eyes of the Lord, your God, the Gracious, a supreme and glorious triumph.
Should the Spirit of true Love permeate the assemblies of men on earth, they, verily, will grow to become a string of heavenly pearls, a guiding constellation that sheddeth its glory and radiance over all mankind.
The Glory of God, the Ever-Living, the Self-Subsisting, rest upon you.
THE Ten Most Important Books in the World is the title of an article by H. G. Wells in the American Magazine, "most important" meaning the most influential in shaping the thought and life of mankind. Mr. Wells names first, four great bibles of the world—The Old Testament, The New Testament, the books of Confucius, The Koran. He then considers the sacred writing of Brahmanism and Buddhism. Then he mentions the great philosophic writings of Plato and Aristotle. To these he adds four works that have stimulated the remarkable advancement of scientific thought in the modern world.
In a second article in the American Magazine Mr. Wells writes that the two books which everyone should read are Plato's Republic and the Gospels. The Gospels show us that "any public policy that does not aim at the union of mankind in the Kingdom of Heaven under the Fatherhood of God is ultimately foolery and a way to death."
In the first of these two articles Mr. Wells speaks of the momentous influence of the Koran in establishing brotherhood and awakening the Arab peoples to the splendor of Saracen civilization. He writes: The Koran "has been a creative and cohesive power in the world second only to the Bible. . . the book most preventive of idolatry and such like corruption that the world has ever seen. It has kept Islam together in sturdy fellowship under Allah, a fellowship transcending race, color, and language, . . . This blaze of the Arab mentality that followed the Arab conquests was no doubt directly due to the stimulus of the Aristotelian literature that the Moslem found still read and treasured in Persia. But the conquests that put the Arabs into a position that made their development of chemistry, arithmetic, astronomy, architecture, decorative art, and speculative philosophy possible were achieved only through the unifying and inspiring drive of the new teachings in the Koran."
Today, increasing thousands in all the great world religions are recognizing that the most important literature of the modern world is the writings of Bahá'u'lláh and 'Abdu'l-Bahá. In Shoghi Effendi's superb translations of these writings we have revealed to us a new world of inspiration, of literary beauty, of that divine power to refashion and unite human souls which is alone possessed by the great bibles of the world. They present in the language of today that universal foundation, that divine teaching which is the essence of all sacred scripture, reinforced by a holy spirit that has already united the most diverse of peoples into a spiritual brotherhood which goes round the world.
"These are stirring days for newspaper readers with the gift of imagination,"
writes one of our American weeklies, for, in a single week, we see Russia naming "the modern world's first woman ambassador," and "the military hero of Turkey preaches emancipation for Moslem women."
Judge Florence E. Allen, who has taken her place on the Supreme Court of the state of Ohio is the first woman in the world's history to sit on the bench of a State Supreme Court.
"The great unorganized masses of humanity I have found sincerely desirous of peace in every country, but in all countries preparations for another great world war are going forward; if we can awaken the religious feelings of mankind we can avoid this war, if not, the outlook is dark."—Fred B. Smith, Lecturer for the Y. M. C. A.
We see everywhere today in Europe, pessimism and despair. Our present despondency is somewhat akin to the belief in the approaching end of the world that prevailed in the early days of Christianity. . . . It grows with the waning of hope in the future terrestial paradise. . . . The pessimism which weighs upon Europe today will probably give birth to a new and fruitful religious vision, a new faith. For all faith is born of despair; and this new faith, which will be but the old faith in another form, will give us new standards of conduct, new ethics, a new religion."—"The Future of Europe," by Miguel De Unamuno, in the Living Age.
In these days, when internal commotions are shaking the very foundations of men's beliefs, and the flames of distress are purging humanity from its ills and maladies, it behooves us, the loved ones of God, to stand steadfastly amid this world-tumult, and with the Divine Teachings exemplified in our lives, restore gradually peace, assurance and tranquility to the distracted world. For unless the saving Power of the Word of God comes to their aid, peoples and sects, classes and governments, entangled in the mesh of their own undoing, shall fall a prey to one another's greed and passion, and in the end deplorably perish.
But this is not to be, for we are assured that the Divine Will has ordained that from this raging turmoil shall emerge a world purer and better illumined with the Light of the Divine Revelation, and guided by the principles of the Most Great Peace!
Ours, then, is the duty and privilege to labor with heart and soul for the re-birth of mankind, and hasten the advent of the Promised Day—Letter of Shoghi Effendi to the friends of Montclair, New Jersey.
- The Spiritual Assembly,
- Haifa, Palestine,
- March, 1923.
FOR the first time, from this holy Mountain, after the ascension of our beloved Master, 'Abdu'l-Bahá, quickened by the happy return of the Guardian of the Cause, Shoghi Effendi, and inspired by his unceasing efforts to bring greater cooperation and interrelation between the centers the world over, we, the members of the newly constituted Spiritual Assembly of Haifa, have the great pleasure of extending a warm hand to our brothers and sisters across the seas who are working hard in order to carry out the unique principles of this Divine Dispensation. The more we hear the good news of the progress of the Cause the more do we realize the fulfillment of the words of the Master when with a radiant smile he spoke of the vast field of service which lies before the sincere and loyal friends of God.
You can very well imagine our state after the disappearance of the physical body of our beloved Master from this world; the shock was so great that without the Divine Assistance of the Holy Spirit we could never have had the power to bear the weight thereof. But through the Grace of God, once again, the still small voice called out from the Abhá Kingdom and vividly pictured before our mind the holy words of Bahá'u'lláh:
"O Son of Spirit
"The Holy Spirit heralds comfort to thee. Why dost thou grieve? The spirit of Command confirms thee in the Cause. Why hidest thou? The light of the face walks before thee, why strayest thou?"
The holy spirit of 'Abdu'l-Bahá has been heralding comfort to the Bahá’í world since November, 1921; we have been receiving good news about the Cause from all climes and countries and we consider it our sacred duty to share with you these glad-tidings.
A general constitutional meeting of the Bahá’ís at Haifa was held in December, 1922, and the Haifa Spiritual Assembly was elected. Since election, regular meetings, three times a week, have been held and steps are being taken to come in touch with Bahá’í Spiritual Assemblies the world over.
The Bahá’í Young Men's Union Assembly, established when the Guardian of the Cause was away from the Holy Land, has the regular Nineteen-day feast. Besides these meetings we have the regular spiritual meetings in the evenings where we have the privilege of hearing our beloved Shoghi Effendi talk about the advancement of the Cause in different parts of the world.
Spiritual Assemblies are established in practically every town in Syria, Palestine, and Egypt, where the number of the friends is considerable. Two of our brothers, originally Kurds, but versed in Moslem law, are planning to go to Kurdistan and Algeria, respectively, in order to spread the Message of Peace to the people in those countries.
The true friends of 'Abdu'l-Bahá at 'Ishqábád, Russian Turkistan, write us that they are energetically busy with the spread of the Heavenly Teachings and are regularly communicating the results of their achievements to as many Bahá’í centers as they are able to communicate with. The following is an extract from their circular letter dated January, 1923:
"In the third circular letter received from Karah Bágh, Azarbaíján Republic, we read that in one town there were four Bahá’ís who lost no time in acquainting the people with the dynamic principles of the Cause. They succeeded in guiding a considerable number of souls to the straight path. This aroused the hatred and the fanaticism of the religious leaders and the ignorant masses. About three hundred and seventeen persons were condemned as irreligious and astray, notwithstanding the fact that not all of these were Bahá’ís. Those amongst the group who were not Bahá’ís were rather amazed at the blind fanaticism of the people and publicly declared that under the obtaining circumstances they considered themselves Bahá’ís and that they were ready, heart and soul, to abide by the consequences. This is an evidence that unity and steadfastness is power.
"In Vladikavkaz, near Bakú, the press is taking a keen interest in the Cause. Some criticise, some speak in a commendable tone, and this atmosphere has created a wide field for service.
"At Isfahan, one of the ancient capitals of Persia, there are now twenty-eight meetings held per week."
- Haifa, March 21, 1923.
IT is rightfully befitting that in this bright and beautiful spring, Nawruz morning, the new day for new resolutions, the right time to gird up the loins in the hope to render greater services to the Cause of God which, by its very nature of universality, is finding its way into every heart and soul, we, the humble servants of 'Abdu'l-Bahá, should, as members of one body, think of you and herewith transmit our sincere and hearty greetings.
Through the shining light of this blessed Day we are ushered into the month of light and glory; it was on a day like this that "The Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters." "And God said, Let there be light: and there was light." In this same connection may we not recall the words of the Buddha when he said, "I am now on my way to the city of Benares, to beat the drum of Ambrosia (to set up the light of the doctrine of Nirvana) in the darkness of the world." History tells us that many important events have come to pass in this day; spring has found expression in its fullest sense. Shahru'l-Bahá, therefore, has a special message to every one of us, viz.: blessing divine, aspiration sublime, holiness entire and abundance ad libitum
Since writing you last, dear brothers and sisters, we have had the pleasure of receiving further news from different Spiritual Assemblies. A spiritual echo is being heard from the distant country of Algeria where no geographical description could adequately give the real latitude of the fanaticism and ignorance that is obtaining in that region. To those not conversant with the miraculous power of the Cause this reawakenment in the border lines of the Sahara Desert may truly appear incredible. We refer to the letter just received from Tunisia in which mention is made of the fact that many souls have turned their faces to the true Light and have established a spiritual assembly in that town. The friends are ablaze with the fire of Divine Love and, rapt with this newly found precious gem, they are employing every means within their command in order to spread the Message wider and further.
Our hearts beat faster with joy as we start to tell you about another spiritual call which is being heard from the border line of the Syrian Desert. Aleppo, the city of ancient history, is witnessing the establishment of a Bahá’í Assembly. The sincere friends in that city are having regular meetings and have started regular correspondence with other Bahá’í centers. We are in receipt of their first letter written in Turkish.
Fortunate and blessed we are: through the bounty of this Dispensation we are able to realize that we are really an inseparable part of the great whole; in the very midst of unity we enjoy the interesting points of diversity. At one moment we read about the activities of the friends in Asia, at another in Africa; now we hear from the friends in America and then we have the pleasure of hearing from the friends in Europe.
The fourth circular letter from Tihrán is at hand. The longing to see the whole world one home suffered thousands of souls to drink the cup of martyrdom in this city, the capital of the Persian Empire. But all the power could not check the spread of these ideals and now we learn that in every part of that city spiritual meetings are being held and every cast seed is yielding a hundredfold. The friends all over Persia are fully active in the discharge of their sacred duty of teaching. A unanimous vote of thanks and hearty appreciation is expressed by all the assemblies to the Bahá’í brothers and sisters in Europe and America who have lovingly taken necessary steps with the express object to safeguard the interests of their brothers and sisters in Persia. This sympathy of the friends in the West has given a new impetus to them all; may we not hope that at no distant future the promises of the Master regarding the land of the Sun and the Lion will be realized, and how becoming it will be if all the western assemblies should take note of this; they should bear in mind and try to see how best they could help the land which has been blessed by His Holiness Bahá'u'lláh and the Master, 'Abdu'l-Bahá.
Mirza Bouch Bushrui, Secretary.
BRIGHTON, ENGLAND.—On February twenly-fourth and twenty-fifth Dr. Lotfullah Hakim and Jináb-i-Avareh were the guests of Mrs. Elizabeth R. Knight at her home, 9 Montpelier Crescent, Brighton, where they met
many friends and inquirers at an afternoon reception. On February twenty-fifth the lecture hall of the Theosophical Society at 17 Norfolk Terrace, Brighton, was placed at their disposal and Jináb-i-Avareh and his able interpreter, Dr. Lotfullah Hakim, were introduced to a large audience by Dr. W. Gornold, F.R.A.S., who said that Jináb-i-Avareh was on a mission from Persia to voice "The Message of Bahaism" and that few audiences were better prepared to receive that Message than members of a society whose first object was to found a universal brotherhood without distinction of sex, race, caste, color or creed, and he was quite sure that none would give the speakers a more hearty welcome. Jináb-i-Avareh spoke in a clear musical voice of great charm, Dr. Lotfullah interpreting, and it was quite certain from the hearty applause that followed that they had fully succeeded in conveying their message. Both the messenger of Bahá and his versatile translator made many new friends in London's seaside resort, and whether it was the charm of the simplicity of wisdom portrayed by the visitors from Persia, or the grandeur of the wisdom of simplicity revealed in their teachings, they can count upon an unqualified welcome whenever an opportunity occurs for another visit to Brighton.
Elizabeth R. Knight.
- Manchester, England.
- April 12th, 1923.
To the STAR OF THE WEST:
"Verily, God is powerful in all things."
I am glad to be able to tell you that the Manchester Bahá’ís are very happy in having become an organized Assembly. The visit of Jináb-i-Avareh and Dr. Lotfullah in March has filled our hearts with tender love and gratitude and has been the means of guiding us into a more perfect and spiritual harmony even than before. The wisdom, logic, patience and understanding of the poet and historian as well as Bahai teacher, inspired a radiant unity and love unique in its intensity. Dr. Lotfullah and he spoke as with one spirit, one tongue; they indeed seemed to have entered our midst from that "Kingdom eternal, ancient, immortal, and without end," "performing in themselves that which has been intrusted to them." They were lit by a fire so life giving that one can but think the Master himself was encircling them, and ourselves, with his spirit and beauty.
It is good indeed to feel the oneness of humanity and know that in America there are people who will share our gladness and joy; the nearness of our brothers and sisters all over the world must at times fill our hearts and minds with sweet amazement and the Great Link of Shoghi Effendi at the head of all, causing the sap of life to flow in every branch and leaflet, however small, causes deep rejoicing to some of us who feel infinitesimally little and ineffective, yet having the Divine Assurance that even our bit is necessary for the Great Work of the Ages. Only to say "I am a Bahai" uplifts the soul and makes one hope for the Assembly to become a constellation of stars so bright that it may be a guidance to other wayfarers and pilgrims seeking the great white path of Baha.
The 10 days' visit, and later two more days, of our teachers, were an outpouring of divine grace; everywhere great interest developed, all who heard and saw Jináb-i-Avareh and Dr. Lotfullah S. Hakim became filled with love and admiration, the Doctor translated so beautifully the incomparable talks and addresses.
We close with deep love to you all—our faces are ever turned towards the Dawn of the Manifestation. He will make us firm in the Covenant. Praise be to the light shining from the horizon of glory and grandeur.
I will close, dear brothers and sisters, with Bahai love and greetings to all the friends, from the friends of the Cause in Manchester.
I remain yours sincerely,
JINAB-I-AVAREH'S visit has just come to an end, writes Dr. Esslemont from England, and Dr. Lotfullah Hakim has gone with him to Marseilles, to see him safe on board the steamer for Egypt. He is going now to Cairo to make arrangements for the publication of his book, which Shoghi Effendi says will be the most comprehensive and reliable history of the Movement yet published. It is in Persian, but before long, I hope, we shall have an English translation of it. You have already heard of the wonderful inspiring, quickening, genial and harmonizing influence which Jinab-i-Avareh brought with him, and of his talks, so rich in wisdom, knowledge, tact and humour. During his visit to this country, two new Spiritual Assemblies were formed, at Manchester, on March twenty-fourth, and at Bournemouth, on April eleventh. . . .
The time of Jinab-i-Avareh's visit has been marked by an important forward step in the organization of the Movement in this country as well as by a marked increase of interest and enthusiasm among believers and students of the Cause.
BAHA'U'LLAH AND THE NEW ERA, by Dr. J. E. Esslemont, is now on the press. This volume is a comprehensive presentation of the history and teachings of the Movement, stated in the terms of Western, scientific thought, and written in a simple, forceful English style by a scholar of wide learning. 'Abdu'l-Bahá had the whole of the manuscript translated into Persian and found time amid his busy life to correct about three and a half chapters of it before his Ascension. Shoghi Effendi read through the whole of the manuscript and suggested several improvements and Jinab-i-Avareh as well as other friends was consulted about many points and gave material assistance. The book, therefore, is the fruit of much consultation and co-operation, as is fitting in an exposition of a Movement in which consultation and co-operation play so vital a part.
Shoghi Effendi wrote to the author: "Your book, I am sure, is the finest presentation that has so far been given of the Cause, and I am confident that it will arouse immense interest."
(London: George Allen and Unwin, Limited).
Copies of this book may be secured by addressing Dr. J. E. Esslemont, Fairford, Cults, By Aberdeen, Scotland.
A new and comprehensive compilation of the words of Bahá'u'lláh and 'Abdu'l-Bahá upon the principles of education may be had from Miss Roushan Wilkinson, Room 811, 35 Congress Street, Boston, Mass. (40 cents a copy).
The STAR OF THE WEST is now being mailed from the publishers, about the twenty-fifth of each month. If any copies go astray please write at once to Bahá’í News Service, P. O. Box 283, Chicago, Ill. The date of subscription expiration is noted on each envelope so that the friends can send in renewals without the need of a letter from our very busy staff. In this way all can help our STAR OF THE WEST.
Volume Volume 13, bound in half-leather, is now ready, for $3.50 a volume, postage extra. It contains a splendid collection of universal articles, Bahá’í documents, biographical sketches, stories of visits to the Holy Land, glorious letters and translations from the pen of Shoghi Effendi.
The Bahá’í News Service will also be glad to have volumes bound, in half-leather, for the friends, for $1.25 a volume, postage extra. We have now arranged so that the friends can send their copies directly to the binder, Mr. Robert Stewart 511 North Peoria Street, Chicago, Ill.
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