The American Bahá’í/Volume 25/Issue 15/Text
| ←Previous | The American Bahá’í Volume 25, Issue 15 |
Next→ |
| Return to PDF view |
 | The text below this notice was generated by a computer, it still needs to be checked for errors and corrected. If you would like to help, view the original document by clicking the PDF scans along the right side of the page. Click the edit button at the top of this page (notepad and pencil icon) or press Alt+Shift+E to begin making changes. When you are done press "Save changes" at the bottom of the page. |
‘Im B.e. 1517
Octoser 16, 1994
Vo.ume 25, Numeer 15
Regional public information weekends launched
The National Spiritual Assembly's The meetings will give the PI reps outlined in a letter sent to all PI reps newly reopened Office of Public and others an opportunity to meet and local Spiritual Assemblies. For Information in New York City plans to _ with the staff of the Office of Public more information, please contact the hold a series of meetings across the Information and to discuss the Office of Public Information, 212-756country to consult with Public Infor- present and future status of work 3500. mation Representatives, local Spiritual — with the media. The schedule:
Assemblies and other interested The meetings will begin Saturday October 15-16: Baha'i Center, New
Baha'is about the public information morning and end early Sunday York City. October 22-23: Chicago. work of the Faith in the U.S. afternoon. More specific details were November 5-6: Louisville, Ken National Assembly meeting spotlights triumphs, concerns
The National Spiritual Assembly met August 26-28. Among the external affairs matters discussed was the letter from President Clinton to Sen. Claiborne Pell, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, in which the President expressed his continuing support of the human rights of Baha'is and other minority groups in Iran.
The Treasurer's Office reported that contributions to the various Baha'i funds are running well ahead of contributions received last summer; however, the continuing deficit in the National Fund is a matter of grave concern, especially because no further reductions of staff or other economies are possible without seriously impairing the functioning of
Firuz Kazemzadeh (left), the National Spiritual Assembly
secretary for External Affairs, was one of the speakers at a
reception July 27 at the Capitol Building in Washington that
the national Baha’ administrative institutions. celebrated the passage by Congress of the United Nations The National Teaching Committee presented a report Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Dison the increased teaching activities in many areas of the crimination and the Convention Against Torture and other country. In consultation, the link between teaching and Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. The race unity work was stressed. National Spiritual Assembly's office in Washington organized Particular attention was paid to the local initiative of NGO (non-governmental organization) support for ratificathe friends in the Charleston, South Carolina, area who tion of the Convention. Other speakers at the reception are planning a race unity conference emphasizing the were Sen. Claiborne Pell of Rhode Island, chairman of the contributions made by the Hand of the Cause of God Senate Foreign Relations Committee; John Shattuck, AsLouis G. Gregory, a native of Charleston. sistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights and In the spirit of the Campaign for Unified Action, the Labor; James O'Dea, executive director, Washington office of National Spiritual Assembly will write to local Assem- Amnesty International; and Father Robert F. Drinan, S.J., of blies in the Charleston area to commend them for their the American Bar Association.
meritorious initiative and to offer its support. The National Teaching Committee reported that it had received proposals that Baha’{ children, at the start of the for Baha'f Centers, especially in the South, was discussed,
school year, take to school administrators a form letter and it was agreed that construction of the Arc on Mt.
from the National Spiritual Assembly explaining Baha'{ Carmel takes precedence over all other financial needs.
Holy Days and asking permission for Baha'{ students to In some areas, however, it may become necessary to
be absent on those days. invest in the acquisition or construction of Baha'i Centers Counselor Wilma Ellis met with the National Spiritual
Assembly. The consultation dealt with teaching. The need See NATIONAL page II
Atlanta Baha’i Youth Workshop members kick up their heels and country music star Dan Seals relates how he came to the Faith during a public meeting September 17 in Atlanta, Georgia. The Workshop was fresh from appearances at the ‘1 Have a Dream’ National Youth Assembly in Little Rock, Arkansas (see page 10), while Mr. Seals arrived in the midst of a concert tour. But this night they had Georgia on their minds, and an enthusiastic audience in Georgia Tech’s Theatre of the Arts was appreciative.
Photos by Tom Mennillo.
tucky. November 19-20: Baha'i
Center, Denver, Colorado.
December 10-11: Atlanta, Georgia. December 17-18: Wichita, Kansas.
January 7-8: Baha'i Center, Los Angeles. January 14-15: Baha'i Book and Information Center, Seattle, Washington. January 28-29: Baha'i Center, Dallas, Texas.
Partnerships
help Walla Walla build celebration that draws 3,500
The Baha'is of Walla Walla, Washington, gave a Race Unity Day and Multi-Cultural Arts Festival and 3,500 people—fully one-tenth the number of city residents—showed up.
But there’s no real secret to their success, according to Britt Barer of the Spiritual Assembly of Walla Walla.
“As we don't have the resources within the two small Baha'i communities in Walla Walla County to put on an event of this magnitude, we approached many other organizations, individuals, and businesses who felt as we did about the importance of fostering race unity,” he explained.
This consultation resulted in formation of the Walla Walla Race Unity Committee, a not-for-profit group with its own bank account and federal ID number to keep all funds and donations separate from the funds of the Faith or any of the other participating organizations.
The Baha’i communities are represented on the committee, along with Pioneer United Methodist Church, First Congregational
See THREE-YEAR page 17
i wane ray Mindat
The Baha’fs of San Diego County, California, as part of the Nightingale Teaching Project, presented awards June 4 to 23 African-Americans for their contributions and service to the city of San Diego.
A family also was honored in recognition of the importance of all families.
James Moody, a relatively new Baha’{ and internationally known jazz musician who played with Dizzy Gillespie, was presented a special award that included a portrait of Mr. Gillespie by Baha’ artist Jihmye Collins.
The honorees were from all walks of life, including a well-known Christian pastor, the president of a local NAACP chapter, artists, educators, business women and men, an attorney and a reporter.
Most honorees were those who have worked steadfastly to promote unity in their own as well as the larger community, often without great exposure.
The luncheon was held at a minority-owned restaurant, and about 150 people heard how the work of these honorees reflects Baha’{ principles of equality, unity and justice.
A booklet was prepared and distributed to all honorees and guests. It included an autobiographical sketch and photograph of each honoree, as well as quotations from “The Vision of Race Unity” and other
Treat Greatest Name with respect
The Guardian and the Universal House of Justice have strongly urged the Baha’is to treat the Greatest Name with the utmost respect and dignity. The National Spiritual Assembly discourages the use of the Greatest Name in contacts with the media. It is not advisable for Baha’is to pose for newspaper photographs holding the Greatest Name or por-traits of ‘Abdul-Baha.
RETA
The American Baha'i is published 19 times a year by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahd’fs of the United States, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201. Second class postage paid at Evanston, IL, and additional mailing offices. ISSN Number: 1062-1113. Executive editor: Jack Bowers. Associate Editor: Tom Mennillo. The American Bahd’é welcomes news, letters and other items of interest from individuals and the various institutions of the Bahd’i Faith. Articles should be clear and concise; color or blackand-white glossy photographs should be included whenever possible. Please address all ma— terials and correspondence to The Editor, The American Baha'i, Wilmette, IL 60091. Postmaster: Send address changes to Management Information Systems, Baha'i National Center, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201. Copyright © 1994 by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of the United States. World rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A.
Baha’{ writings.
The following letter from one of the honorees seems to express the feeling the organizers heard from many of those honored:
“Thank you very much for the wonderful acknowledgement. I felt humbled to be included in the Nightingale Awards with such an
ila
elite, talented group of community leaders.
“It was a privilege to spend quality time with the membership of Baha’{, who, in my opinion, are on the cutting edge of teaching people how to create happiness, harmony and a vision of purpose. It’s obvious that all of the membership is in a unique
im Loe
San Diego Baha'is present awards to African-Americans
class that requires skill, practice and courage.
“The stimulating awards event was an enriching, intimate experience and presented me with a new understanding of relationship.”
The Nightingale Project plans to follow up with many of the new friendships made at the luncheon.
NATIONAL YOUTH CONFERENCE
Army Of Light National Youth Conference December 23 - 26, 1994
Personal Information: Name
Street Address
City State Zip Phone. Age. Baha'i ID Number Sex
Race/Ethnic Background
Special Assistance Required (i.e. - Wheelchair access, Walking Assistance, Blind Access):
VOLUNTEERS: We need volunteers. Please check your area of preference:
Ushering
Security
Registration
As assigned
If you are under 18, please have your parent fill out the following: I, . parent of , a minor, authorize the Baha'i Youth Conference Task Force to consent to any and all medical or surgical treatment deemed advisable by any physician or surgeon licensed under the provisions of the Medical Practice Act effective while my child is attending this event. Date Signature of parent
Insurance Company. Policy #
If you are under 15, and attending without a parent, please
fill out the following: I, , parent of » appoint
to be my child's sponsor at the Bahd'f National Youth Confer ence. The sponsor, who is of the same sex and over 21, will
serve as a good and kindly parent to my child and is fully
responsible for him/her at the conference.
Date Signature of parent
Date Signature of sponsor
+ Pre-registration deadline—December 10.
- Be sure to include payment with your registration form.
- Use only one form per person. Photocopies are
acceptable.
FEE for Registration: $30. Fee must be included with registration form. Please make checks payable to: Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'fs of Phoenix.
HOTELS: Those wishing to stay in area hotels must make their own reservations. Mention the Bahd'f Conference when making all reservations to ensure discounted rates. You are encouraged to make room reservations immediately.
Holiday Inn Crown Plaza 1-800-359-7253 or 602-257-1525 $42 a night for up to four people upon availability
Please note: December 10 is the final day for these rates. These rates are available for December 21 - 27.
AIR TRANSPORTATION: Southwest Airlines is offering a discount on all fares for flights going to Phoenix between December 20-29. To make reservations, call Southwest Airlines Group desk at 1-800-433-5368 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mention the Baha'f Conference and refer to I.D. number J39. Reservations must be made by December 14 to receive the discount.
FOOD: We have been notified that there will be no outside food allowed in the hotels. There are restaurant and fast food facilities available in the hotel areas.
At the Holiday Inn:
Breakfast $3.50 Lunch $5.50 Dinner $8.00
On-Site Registration: On-site registration begins on Thursday afternoon, December 22.
Medical Release for those under 18: Everyone under the age of 18 must have a parent fill out the medical release section on the registration form. NO EXCEPTIONS!
Age Limit: Please note that this is a Youth Conference.
If you are outside this age bracket, please consider attending the Grand Canyon Bahd'f Conference. Questions about any other details of the Youth Conference can be directed to 1800-DWN-BRKR
PO Box 9961 Phoenix, AZ 85068-9961
Send registration form to:
PLEASE NOTE: This form is for the National Youth Conference ONLY. If your family is planning to attend the Grand Canyon Baha'f Conference, please be sure they register with the GCBC Committee.
Teaching —
~The
arnnrnery
Wrount your steeds, > heroes of CFed!
‘ILM B.€. 151 / October 16, 1994 3
i ¥ Ree
Our vision ... ONE VISION
Welcome again to The Banner! As we center our focus on unity and service, we would like to fill The Banner with components that will inspire, enlighten and motivate Baha'i youth to serve and unite. To do this, we provide you with deepenings, service and teaching project information, quotes to brighten your mind, and much more.
We know, however, that you have many great ideas as well. We encourage you to send your ideas and suggestions to us, because we want The Banner to represent accurately American Baha'i youth. So, please be in touch with us!
We are looking for:
- Information on service and
teaching projects with which you are involved.
- Prayers and quotes that represent
to you attributes of a spiritual warrior.
- Deepenings that have been
successful for you (including refer ences).
- Letters to the editor expressing
your ideas, concerns, questions and inspirations.
- Ideas about how youth can serve
their Baha'i community.
- Teaching and service victories
(please feel free to include photographs).
- College club information and
news of activities.
¢ Anything else you can think of to share with other youth in the country. ‘Additionally, we'd like to know what you think of The Banner so far— the newsletter that was mailed out, and in this issue of The American Baha't.
Please share your thoughts with us. so that we can continue to serve you and to provide information relevant to youth today.
Thanks!
Editors,
The Banner
1-800-DWN-BRKR The dawning of a new age has come... .
Open your eyes to the illuminating power of youth! Our new 800 number puts you in touch with the heartbeat of the country. Find out about projects around the country, or leave a message with YOUR project information. Share with us your experiences, ideas and inspirations, or ask us your questions about teaching and serving. Your National Teaching Committee is only a phone call away .. .
PLEASE BE IN TOUCH WITH US!
Becoming a spiritual warrior
“This generation of Baha'i youth enjoys a unique distinction. You will live your lives in a period when the forces of history are moving to a climax, when mankind will see the establishment of the Lesser Peace, and during which the Cause of God will play an increasingly prominent role in the reconstruction of human society. It is you who will be called upon in the years to come to stand at the helm of the Cause in face of conditions and developments which can, as yet, scarcely be imagined.”— The Universal House of Justice, in
Unrestrained as the Wind, p. 85
“The forces released by Bahda'u'lléh's Revelation need individuals who will serve as pure channels to do the work of the Cause. From the very beginning of the Faith, youth have arisen to serve in this way. Now, at so crucial a moment in the unfoldment of the Cause and the history of humanity, Baha'f youth are again summoned to heroic deeds as spiritual warriors in the army of light.”—The Universal House of Justice, in Youth Can Move the World, pp. 6,9
From the beginning of the Baha'i Era, youth have played a vital role in promulgating God's Revelation. Their exemplary dedication and love for the Faith have allowed them to serve with distinction and honor in the forefront of the Cause.
Accounts of unselfish acts of courage, unending devotion, and supreme sacrifice can be found throughout the pages of The DawnBreakers.
It is particularly in the story of Zaynab that Baha'i youth of today can find the strength and inspiration to serve their beloved Cause.
Her name was Zaynab, her home a tiny hamlet in the neighborhood of Zanjan [Persia], her time shortly following the martyrdom of the Bab.
She was comely and fair of face, was fired with a lofty faith, and endowed with intrepid courage.
JG a disciple of the Bab, the sight of the trials and hardships which her fellow Bab{ companions were made to endure during the battle of Zanjan stirred in her an irrepressible yearning to disguise herself in male attire and share in repelling the repeated military attacks of the enemy.
Disguised as a man, Zaynab girded a sword, seized both musket and shield, and introduced herself into the ranks of the Bab{ warriors.
During battle, with incredible audacity and a prowess uncommon to a woman of those times, Zaynab flung herself upon the enemy forces, baring her sword and raising the cry “YA
A deepening: heroic youth—the story of Zaynab
Sahibu'z-Zamén!” She was able to keep her true identity hidden from all of her fellow Babi warriors save one. Hujjat, one of the leaders during the battle of Zanjén, questioned her as to the motive behind her behavior after realizing who she was.
She burst into tears and said, “My heart ached with pity and sorrow when I beheld the toil and sufferings of my fellow disciples. I advanced by an inner urge I could not resist.”
She added, “You alone have recognized me. I
My life, | feel, is nearing its end. | may myself fall beneath the sword of the assailant. Forgive, | entreat you, my trespasses, and intercede for me with my Master, for whose sake I yearn to lay down my life. Zaynab, as quoted in The Dawn-Breakers
adjure you by the Bab not to withhold from me that inestimable privilege, the crown of martyrdom, the one desire of my life.”
Hujjat, profoundly impressed by the tone and manner of her appeal, granted her request but warned her not to exceed the bounds their Faith had imposed upon them.
“We are called upon to defend our lives against a treacherous assailant,” he reminded her, “and not to wage holy war against him.”
Zaynab continued to display her unrivaled
heroism in battle for a period of no less than five months. Always at the forefront of the turmoil that raged around her, Zaynab was ever-ready to rush to the rescue of whatever post the assailant was threatening, and to lend her assistance to anyone who needed either her encouragement or support.
One day, seeing that enemy forces had enveloped her companions, Zaynab ran in distress to Hujjat to implore that he allow her to rush forth to their aid.
“My life, I feel, is nearing its end,” she said. “I may myself fall beneath the sword of the assailant. Forgive, I entreat you, my trespasses, and intercede for me with my Master, for whose sake I yearn to lay down my life.”
With this, Zaynab leaped out of the gate and, raising the cry of “YA Séhibu'z-Zamn!”, rushed to slay the hand that had already slain a number of her companions.
She was engaging in overcoming the fourth of the enemy's defenses when, beneath a shower of bullets, she fell to the ground.
Not a single voice ever dared to question Zaynab's chastity or to ignore the sublimity of her faith and the enduring traits of her character.
Such was her devotion that after her death not less than 20 women of her acquaintance embraced the Cause of the Bab.
To them she was the incarnation of the noblest principles of human conduct, a living embodiment of the spirit that only a faith such as hers could manifest.
THe American BAHA'i
Baha'i family recounts memorable teaching trip to Albania
The following experiences were shared by Robert and Elvia Ramirez from Texas who recently returned with their two children from a memorable pilgrimage and traveling teaching trip to Albania.
.
Leaving Haifa after our pilgrimage was very hard. We had experienced “heaven on earth” for nine days. Yet we knew that the work of teaching the Faith of Baha’u’llah was to come.
As we traveled to Albania we had many apprehensions but we trusted in God and knew that He was with us every step of the way. We felt that Baha’u’llah was paving the way for our trip as we quickly met the Baha’is in the capital city of Tirana and were escorted to our teaching post in Fier, about a three-hour drive away.
Although the days were extremely hot and sometimes traveling to the villages was difficult, teaching the Faith was not!
Our teaching teams consisted of three or four Baha’is accompanied by Albanian youth who spoke fluent English. Upon arriving in a village, we looked up the local Baha’fs and began deepening and consolidation work with them.
In the process, neighbors and friends would come to visit. We would be introduced and the conversation would turn to the Faith. The Albanian Baha‘fs would begin teaching and we would then say prayers or tell stories about the life of Baha’u'll4h.
Most visits ended with four to six declarations, and invitations to return. We would then focus on these new Baha'is and fol-low up with children’s classes, deepenings, women’s meetings and meetings on the importance of the Feast.
the doors and prepare the way for us.
Each team concentrated on three villages and returned every three days. Eventually, six new communities were opened and 156 new Bahda’is were enrolled in 19 days.
We celebrated the Feast of Perféction (Kamal) in our respective communities. It was by the Grace of God that we were all able to stay awake and energized, alert and happy at our own local Feast.
In the village of Ducas the Feast was held in a stairway because the homes could not accommodate the size of the community. It was a happy occasion despite the fact that we were packed quite tightly, and no-one complained. It was inspiring to see how 50 adults and children adjusted in the best way possible to a difficult situation.
Later that evening we went to the Feast in Fier which was attended by many people and gave us the opportunity to say good-bye to our dear
friends. We promised to return, and in Albania a promise is a serious commitment! We are planning to
willing to help:
Service Corps volunteers, youth pioneers are needed Veteran Baha'i Youth Service Corps volunteers, youth pioneers, and Army of Light participants are urgently needed to help raise up and prepare increasing numbers of youth pioneers and traveling teachers. If you have served in one of the ways mentioned above, would you be
- tell youth about youth service opportunities at a booth during the
“Army of Light Boot Camp” in December?
¢ draft articles on a variety of topics related to youth service for The Banner, The American Baha'i, or Be Magazine?
¢ facilitate a training institute for Baha’i Youth Service Corps volunteers in your area or at one of the Baha’f schools?
- serve as a regional contact person for youth interested in offering a
term of service in the U.S. or abroad?
- speak about the urgency for and rewards of youth service, teaching
or pioneering at a Baha'i gathering?
¢ help the Office of Pioneering and/or the National Teaching Office in their many other efforts to coordinate the youth service opportunities so vitally important to the youth and to the Baha’f world community?
- Other ways to raise up or prepare youth for service. Some ideas I
have are:
If you can help, please check off one or more items above and mail or fax this form to Alex Blakeson, Office of Pioneering, Baha'i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. Fax 708-733-3509 or phone 708-733-3511.
Elvia Ramirez (second to last row, center) is pictured with a Baha‘ children’s class in Ducas, Albania, just before celebrating the Feast of Kamal (Perfection) with the Ramirez’s many new-found friends and fellow believers.
“Pioneering is the greatest bounty that can come to one—one steps into a new arena of service...one stands on the threshold of this arena and knows that there is only one weapon that will permit victory. There is only one weapon that we have that will absolutely guarantee victory, and that weapon is complete reliance on Bahd’u'‘ll4h. One prays every step of the way. One feels within one’s self a new connection with God, a sense of nearness is born because one soon becomes aware of answers—the path being marked for one; the needs of self that seemed so important at home, that took up so much time and energy fall away or find a new level. One knows, eventually, that one is never alone, one feels a new dimension, one walks the mystical way with practical feet. There are tests— one cannot step into the arena and have focused on one the spiritual spotlight of service without exposing weakness. This, too, is part of the bounty. One begins to know himself. So I would say to anyone—grab the chance before it’s too late. Embrace this bounty. Have no fear. Step into the arena. Above all things, pray that one will succeed, will not falter halfway across the arena. What a great bounty to have been born now, in the early days, when pioneering is possible...when you offer to pioneer, you don’t need to know where you're going. You don’t need to care where you're going. Because you're going out you will be guided by Baha’u’llah. We are blessed that God will assist all those who will arise to serve Him. We know that we are accompanied by a band of chosen angels who will open '—The Hand of the Cause of God John Robarts, from an address at The Gathering, Batterwood, Ontario, Canada, August 3, 1980
return to Albania in 1996. During our stay, we saw the hardships that face the entire national
community of Albania. They have so much to do “ and so few resources. Yet even with these hardships, our Albanian brothers and sisters are happy and most generous with what little they have.
Not only were we able to witness many Albanians proclaiming their belief in our glorious Faith, but also many wonderful friendships were established. Both happened despite a language barrier.
We were touched by their commitment to Baha’u’llah and the sacrifices they would make out of love for Him. This first visit to Albania was an experience that will remain a happy memory for our lifetimes.
STEPS TO SERVICE in the Cause of God
“...There are still vast areas of the
world where no Baha ’fs have set foot.
There are millions desperately thirsting for this Water of Life. There are countries where believers are laboring day and night to foster the growth of the tree of the Cause, and are in urgent need of reinforcements. It is our fervent prayer at the Sacred Threshold that stalwart, self-sacrificing friends will arise and that a wave of pioneers and traveling teachers will surge forth to raise the banner of the Cause and reinforce the cohorts, of God in every land.”—Letter from The Universal House of Justice, June 27, 1993
You may be aware of the urgency of the times and the critical need for pioneers and traveling teachers (...” The task of spreading the Message to the generality of mankind...must be rapidly extended. The need for this is critical. ...”—The Universal House of Justice, Ridvan 150), but do you know what steps to
take to effectively contribute to the winning of the international goals of the Three Year Plan?
For the individual, the Office of Pioneering urges everyone who is considering any form of international service—Bahda’{ Youth Service Corps (BYSC) for young people between
See STEPS page 27 Sensitive Teaching Area program set in October
Three Sensitive International Teaching Areas Programs have happened recently—the next one will be held at the Baha’i National Center on October 2730.
Coming soon...SITAs in your own region! Find out HOW and WHY you can and should be invited! Contact the Office of Pioneering, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette IL 60091, or phone 708-733-3508.
The Life-blood
National Ba
Where we are Where we need to be
$6,000,000 $4,500,000 $3,000,000 $1,500,000 $0 where we are
$3,004,419 Int’l/Arc/Cont’l Funds $1,928,716 $4,833,333 Arc only $1,582,145 Where we need to be
$6,000,000
$4,500,000
$3,000,000
$1,500,000
$0 where
we need
to be
International Funds
$3,500,000
Int’l/ Arc Arc/ only Cont’!
Funds go to heart of our institutions
“The supply of funds, in support of the National Treasury, constitutes, at the present time, the life-blood of these nascent institutions you are laboring to erect. Its importance cannot, surely, be overestimated. Untold blessings shall no doubt crown every effort directed to that end.”—Directives of the Guardian, p. 30 , .
This is the winning metaphor used by Shoghi Effendi to describe the nature of the Baha'i Funds and their effect on the body of a growing Cause.
Indeed, every spiritual reality is mirrored in the physical creation. So let's spend a moment thinking about what life-blood does in a physical body (with apologies to the physicians!), and what the comparison is to the body of the Faith.
Blood circulates through one's body, carrying impurities from the cells, passing through the heart and lungs, and then carrying oxygen and nutrients to the cells.
Isn't there a parallel here? Where do the funds go, if not to the heart of the Faith, its central institutions?
Moreover, in the context of Hugtiqu'llah, the Blessed Beauty tells us that payment of this divine obligation “purifies” our possessions. We become spiritualized as we give to the Cause:
“Giving to the Fund...is a spiritual privilege...of which no believer should deny himself. It is both a responsibility and a source of bounty.
“The importance of contributing resides in the degree of sacrifice of the giver, the spirit of devotion with which the contribution is made, and
the unity of the friends in this service; these attract the confirmations of God and enhance the dignity and self-respect of the individuals and the community.”—The Universal House of Justice
Might not we think of these confirmations as the source of life, just as the oxygen and nutrients we
Many a time hath the court of the All-Merciful been to outward seeming so denuded of all the riches of this world that they who lived in close association with Him suffered from dire want. Despite their sufferings, the Pen of the Most High hath, at no time, been willing to refer, nor even to make the slightest allusion, to the things that pertain to this world and its treasures. And if, at any time, any gift were presented to Him, that gift was accepted as a token of His grace unto him that offered it. Baha'u'llah, Gleanings, pp. 201-202
ingest are the source of life to the cells?
In moments of threat or extreme cold, the blood changes its flow; it goes toward the center of the body and to the brain to ensure an uninterrupted supply to the organs that are essential to life and thought.
Today the worldwide Baha'i community faces tremendous challenges: society is decaying around us and danger mounts; the
Arc on Mount Carmel must be built as a testimony of faith and a source of power.
Doesn't it make sense that our heart and nerve center, the World Center, should be calling for an increased supply of resources? And, as the figures on this page show, those resources have begun to flow toward that Center.
The Baha'f Funds are an integral part of Baha'i life; they are a part of everything we are and do—another similarity to the blood supply. There is no cell, no part of the body that is beyond its reach. Every organ is united with every other; the tasks each one performs depend on actions by every other.
Does it make sense, then, to talk about expansion of the community and not talk about the resources needed to spark that growth? Or about the human and financial resources that result from growth?
Let's not torture the metaphor any longer; it should be clear by now that this simple statement by the Guardian can lead to new understandings of the inner workings of this mysterious Cause.
But one conclusion is this: in the early days, the flow of funds was merely a trickle; as He testifies, often Baha'u'llah and His family “suffered from dire want.”
Today, because of the loving sacrifice of generations of His loved ones, that trickle has swelled to a mighty flood.
We are no longer a tiny organism; today we are a community that commands tens of millions of dollars in resources, resources we use every day for the spiritual development of
people everywhere.
‘ILM B.€. 151 / Octoper 16, 1994 5
A need and a heartfelt response
The request comes from the Universal House of Justice: help a National Spiritual Assembly in eastern Europe buy a national headquarters and a National Assembly in Africa set up a video teaching unit.
Contributions are low, cash is short, and the summer slump has begun. What can be done?
That was the situation that faced our National Spiritual Assembly only three months ago. A number of priority needs had been identified by the House of Justice and allocated to various National Assemblies in the hope that immediate action could be taken; the two listed above were assigned tothe U.S.
There was no question that action was required, and quickly. But what were the options?
The National Fund's income had dropped, forcing the National Assembly to borrow from its last cash reserves. Contracts for repairs to the House of Worship, the National Center and the Green Acre school had been let and had to be honored. Where could the Assembly turn?
One of the Assembly members said, “I know someone who might want to help. Let me go and see.” The National Assembly gave its approval, and in the course of a trip already planned, a meeting was held.
The believer was told of the needs, shown the letter from the Supreme Body, and heard of the National Assembly's inability to meet those needs from its own resources.
This dear friend, who had been to eastern Europe and had seen the needs there, responded immediately with a $40,000 contribution, $1,000 of which was to go to the Arc Projects with the rest divided equally between the two goals.
The gift was made in honor of several family members, some living, others who had passed away. This friend did, indeed, wish to help, saying later, “I feel so honored to have had the chance to serve this great Faith, and to see it grow, wherever, in whatever country. We're all one.”
Some of us can give $40,000, or even more. Some of us cannot; our measure is different. But don't we all want to help?
The supply of funds, in support of the National Treasury, constitutes, at the present time, the life-blood of these nascent institutions you are laboring to erect. Its importance cannot, surely, be overestimated. Untold blessings shall no doubt crown every effort directed to that end. Shoghi Effendi, Directives of the Guardian, p. 30
[Page 6]
Distribution
And the Trees Clapped Their Hands
Storles of Baha'i Ploneers compiled by Claire Vreeland SC $19.95 / Cope—ATTCH In Tablets of the Divine Plan, ‘Abdu’lBah directed Baha’fs to take the message of Baha'u'llah around the world. Here are 38 stories of some of the Baha’f pioneers who did just that.
They all had difficulties—many of them the same problems, no matter in what part of the world they found them language, accommodation, money, schools, jobs, bugs, water supply—but these stories depict “ inspired and determined Baha
selve:
S:
dering sterling service to the Cause.” Essential reading foranyone who would like to be'ajpinceer.
5-1/2" x 8-1/2", 393pp., contents, Introduction, acknowledgements
George Ronald, Publisher
The Baha’i Faith and the Family
By Baha'i International Community
PA $.75 / Cove—BFF
Designed to assist Baha’fs in presenting to the world the Baha’f model of family lift family. This full color booklet covers the Baha’f concepts of
and the role of the individual within the
marriage, individual rights and responsibilities, the equality of the es, and education and consultation. This booklet is ideal for
proclamation and individual presentations, especially during the International Year of the Family.
5-3/4" x 8-1/4", 8pp.
Baha'i Publications Australia
THe AmericAN BaHA'l 6
‘The Baba’é Faith ‘and the Family
Reflections
Verses from the Baha'i Teachings
Compiled by Akwasi O. Osei SC $11.95 / Cope—RSC
A rich offering of verses from
We are now accepting orders and answering
the Baha’{ writings, beautifully correspondence via E-Mail. To contact us, please use the following Internet address, and be sure to include your credit card number, expiration date, and address with your order.
BDS@USBNC.org
presented, to help us reflect on the meaning of life, the mys tery of love, peace, virtue, the
Music of the World Congress
CD Set $35.95# - Code MWCCD CS Set $24.95# - Code MWCCS
as the new world order envisioned by Baha’u'll4h.
5-1/8" x 7-1/2", 114pp., contents, bibliography, references
George Ronald, Publisher
A professionally made recording of the beautiful World Congress music including a full oratorio with featured soloists. This music was recorded last October in Russia with the Mila Moskow Orchestra and singers from the World Congress Choir. Original works by five Baha’ { composers.
Song of the Nightingale
by Grant Hindin Miller
HC $12.95 / Cope—SNH
What could impel a little bird to leave its warm nest and risk life and limb in the wintery chill to sing its most glorious song? This beautifully illustrated story book for children celebrates the birth of Baha’u’llah. Never before has the story been rendered with such poetry and color. The Song of the Nightingale will win a treasured spot in the heart of every reader.
9-1/4" x 10", 32pp.
Nightingale Press
Sone Or aati N uN ent a vG I hn
Lara
BAHAI WORLD
gy mt
1-800-999-9019
BACK IN STOCK
The Advent of Divine Justice, PS $3.00# Approach to a Sacred Place Ivey
ce Pee ae Writings, SC ee The Art of Otto Donald Rogers F ee 2, Gee aha’t Prayers: A Selection : i _—ATSP
The Covenant (study book) $3.00# bs pie pS ae lightening a lo abot
Gleanings from the Writings of Baha'u'llah, PS. $3.00# Ree eo eee ee ee eee eee ee en tae ae
Gleanings from the Writings of Bahé’u’lléh, HC $11.00# Otto Donald Rogers. A a member of the International Teaching
Hidden Words and Selected Holy Writings, SC $2.75 Center in Haifa and an internationally recognized artist Mr. Rogers has
The Hidden Words, HC $11.00# uniquely blended the spiritual principles of the Baha’ Faith with the
eee Words SC. eo landscapes that surround him. His work evokes both the grandeur of
The Secret of Divine Civilizations, PS $3.00# the Canadian prairies in which he was raised and the ancient beauty of
The Significance of Bahé’u'llah’s Revelation, SC $3.00# Israel, where he now lives. The film features superb paintings inter Some Answered Questions, PS $3.00% spersed with interviews and beautiful images of western Canada and
se eet y (10 and 100 packs), PA i 00 Israel. This is an important film to be shared with others, particularly
The Word of God, SC : word $3.00" friends in the artistic community.
Youth Can Move the World, SC $3.00# 57 minutes
Film Crew Production / Unity Arts
[Page 7]
Distribution
D A
A
N IMMORTALITY
THE JOURNEY OF THE SOUL
Calling All Colors
VT $14.95 / Cope—CAC A thought provoking look at the efforts of children and youth to address the challenge of achieving racial unity. Calling All Colors features highlights of the national awardwinning race unity confe name, including frank disc
ences of the same
ions with stu
Cer
tI
Colors
dents. It has proven highly effective for sparking discussions about racism and cultural sensitivity with all ages, and is also useful for those who wish to plan similar conferences. In
the words of Calling All Colors founder, Anisa
Kintz, age ten “We are the next generation, and soon we will be
leading the world, and we have to respect everyone's ideas and not worry about racial differences.”
30 minutes
The Center for Education and Community of Coastal Carolina University
Daytime TELEPHONE ( Dee
Payment METHOD
—Casu ro —Cueck leaflet nebo dy —Cuarce ($10.00 minimum—Visa, Master, AMEX)
Lohaletzal
‘Im B.£. 151 / OctoBer 16, 1994 7
Is there life after death? What is the purpose of earthly existence? SE Me RUC ME deme) ANN aR RUM acta a
RUT yea Lean Ele em CaCl Re Cog
These and many other fascinating questions are explored in
Life, Death, and Immortality, a collection of Baha’i sacred writings that examines the nature of the soul and its development.
More than a discussion of life after death, Life, Death, and Immortality explains the purpose of material and spiritual existence ENR ele MMe MMC NMAC aie MTN Mel me Rell e OMe ole me Nee Mure Cl elit
for spiritual awakening and development is included.
Sl
New From the Baha’i Publishing Trust
The Baha’i World 1992-93
An International Record
HC $19.00 / Copr—BW93H
SC $10.00 / CopE—BW93S
The appearance of this volume inaugurates a new series of The Baha’t World, the publication that was conceived almost seventy years ago as the principal emerging Bah:
public record of the activities around the globe of the { world community. Although nineteen volumes of
the initial series have been published (volume nineteen is now
available, volume twenty is in preparation), the redesign of the series
is undertaken primarily in response to a growing public interest in
the Faith and a desire to respond better to the needs of researchers. The Bahd’f World 1992-93 focuses on the activities of the Holy ’u'lléh and The
involvement at
Year: The publication of the statement on B
i-Aqdas, The Mount Carmel Projects, Baha’
the Earth Summit, The Second Bahd’t World Congress, and much much more. The last three articles provide an overview of the Faith for general readers who have only a superficial familiarity with it. Color photos, maps, and charts make The Baha’ World 1992-93 a perfect gift for public officials and
local libraries. 6" x 9", 316pp., contents, preface, Introduction, statistics, directory World Centre Publications
ig QUANTITY CcOsT For onptrs siirrep oursive tHe ULS., PLease app 15% (min. $3.00) TOTAL Ln Tennessee Resioenrs Purast App 7.75% Satis TAX
| | ExpiRATION DATE
Baha't Distribution Service + 5397 Wilbanks Dr., Hixson, TN 37343 + 1-800-999-9019 - Fax: 1-615-843-0836 - Internet:
[Page 8]
Classified notices in The American Baha'i are published free of charge as aservice to the Baha'i community. Because of this, notices are limited to items relating to the Faith; no personal or commercial ads can be ac— cepted for publication. The opportunities referred to have not been approved by the National Spiritual Assembly; the friends should exer— cise their own judgment and care in responding to them.
SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES
OPPORTUNITIES for service at the Baha'i World Center include the following: Administrative—executive, legal, senior/junior secretaries; administrative and clerical assistants; records managers. Audio-Visual—photographers, darkroom technicians, audio-visual technicians, archivists/librarians. Building/ Construction—skilled individuals in appliance repair, construction, carpentry, electricity, maintenance, painting /plastering, plumbing, tile-setting. Data Processing—those with skills and experience in computer hardware, programming, systems analysis, user support. Engineering—professionals in civil, structural, mechanical and electrical engineering and qua control. Financial—professionals with experience in banking, investments, accounting, bookkeeping. Horticultural—those with training and/ or experience in landscaping, landscape architecture, plant propagation, gardening, turf maintenance, irrigation, greenhouse management. Human Resources— those with a background in personnel, staff recruitment and selection, human/ social services, property /casualty insurance. Langiose Skills—individuals with high-level translation skills in Persian, Arabic, French, and/or Spanish. If you are interested in applying, please contact the Office of Personnel, Baha World Center, P.O. Box 155, Haifa 31001, Israel. Phone 011-97-243-58-358; fax 011-97-24358-280; e-mail
THE BAHA't National Center presently has openings for the following positions: administrative consultant, Gon munity Administration; mail room su rvisor, mail room clerk, Management
information Systems; Fund Development coordinator, administrative assistant, cashier, Office of the Treasurer; administrative assistant, Persian/ American Affairs Office; publishing coordinator, editorial assistant, Baha'i Publishing Trust; communications aide, National Teaching Office; certified nursing assistant (parttime), Baha'{ Home; secretary /receptionist, Baha'i House of Worship; painter's helper, Office Services; grounds maintenance, Properties Office; security guards (experience required), Public Safety. For information about any of these positions, please contact Julie Ravenal, Department of Human Resources, 708-733-3427.
THE BAHA'I Center in Washington, D.C., needs a resident manager (or couple). The principal qualification is a warm, hospitable nature so that those who come to the Center, either for information or to attend meetings, find themselves welcomed in an atmosphere of dignity and reverence. The resident manager has many opportunities to teach, and must be open and ready to greet those who stop by or who telephone, and to help them understand the teachings. The manager is responsible for supervising and maintaining the Center. There is a small apartment in the building, which is in an interracial neighborhood on a major bus line. Please write to the Assembly at Washington, DC 20011, or phone 202726-5909 or 202-882-1736.
CARETAKERS: the Baha'is of Spartanburg County, South Carolina, are looking for a facility that will serve as a Bahé'f Center and provide housing for a couple. Applicants must be self-supporting. For information, please write to the Spiritual Assembly of Spartanburg, P.O. Box 2893, Spartanburg, SC 29304, or phone 803-583-3123.
PIONEERING (OVERSEAS)
EMPLOYMENT opportunities overseas. AFRICA: Botswana—teachers. office secretary. Tanzania—English/ESL teacher. AMERICAS: Chae omieney school teachers. Venezuela—computer industry. ASIA: Macau—urgent need for teachers. Thailand—TESOL teachers. AUSTRALASIA: Palau, W. Caroline Islands—director of finance, associate business dean, English instructor, library technician. EUROPE: Czech Republic— teachers of science, math, English, history and social sciences, foreign languages, Baha’{ studies. For more information, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Baha'i National Center, Wilmette IL 60091 (phone 708-733-3512; fax 708-733-3509).
ARCHIVES
THE NATIONAL Baha'i Archives is seeking, at the request of the Universal House of Justice, original letters written on behalf of the Guardian to the following individuals: Bahiyyih Valentine (died New York City, 1957), Emma Valentine, Flora Valentine, Katrina Valentine (died Temple City, CA, 1966), Carla Van Bergen, Anna Van Blarcom (died Montclair, NJ, 1945). Anyone knowing family members or relatives who might have these letters from the Guardian is asked to contact the National Baha'f Archives, Baha'i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039).
THE NATIONAL Baha'i Archives has
repared a series of biographical sketches of prominent African-American, Native American, Hispanic and Asian Baha'is for use by local communities for Black History Month, Race Unity Day and other special events. Any local community wishing a set of these sketches is asked to send its request with a mailing address to the National Baha’{ Archives, Baha'i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039).
PIONEERING (HOMEFRONT)
BECOME a homefront pioneer in the North Carolina mountains near Boone. A furnished home is waiting to be shared with a single woman who would like to become part of a teaching team and support Boone in its efforts to raise an Assembly. Please phone 704-262-1775 or write to Route 7, Box 662, Boone, NC 28607.
HOMEFRONT pioneering opportunity in Glendive, Montana (in Hts eastern part of the state off I-94 and near several Indian Reservations), which has a Group of two adults. Opening in a two-chair barber shop for a barber or recent graduate of a barber college. Great opportunity for a Baha'i professional in men's hair-cutting to move to Glendive and help build the community to Assembly status. A nice quiet town near historic dinosaur relics. For information, please phone Edward Engel, 406-365-6918.
IF YOU HAVE considered moving to a warm, dry climate in which to serve the Faith, consider Holbrook, Arizona, a town of about 3,500 in the northeastern area of the state. Interstate 40 runs through Holbrook, and tourism is the largest business. For students, there is Northland Pioneer College, a two-year school, and teaching positions may be available at the high school, middle school or at two elementary schools. If
ou are retired or interested in starting a uusiness, Holbrook would be ideal. The Baha'f community has seen nine declara
HELP WANTED
The office of the National Teaching
National Projects Administrator
ing Committee. Some duties include:
Baha’{ administration.
use in print and audio/visual media.
skills.
708-733-3427).
in the NATIONAL TEACHING OFFICE
in light of the present needs of the Faith. As a result, applications are being accepted for the following full-time positions:
Responsible for executing projects sponsored by the National Teach
- Manages national support of teaching throughout the U.S.
- Monitors nationally appointed task forces and national initiatives.
- Coordinates special activities and events.
Experience: Proven project management skills; excellent verbal ability; strong analytical and management capacity; superior interpersonal skills; experience in teaching and familiarity with the principles of
Communications and Development Administrator
Responsible for the communications and development agenda of the National Teaching Committee. Some duties include:
- Develops news and messages to the American Baha’ community for
- Facilitates the production of teaching and deepening materials.
¢ Gathers and analyzes information related to the teaching work.
Experience: Professional background in writing and production for the media; superior writing skills; comprehensive knowledge of the Bah4’i Writings; proven ability in research and data analysis; ability to coordinate the work of volunteer task forces; excellent interpersonal
For more information or to apply, please write to the Office of Human Resources, Baha'i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone
Committee has been restructured
tions in the last seven years, the majority of them youth. We have formed an Assembly, but need your support to help us pew: For information, please contact lary Varjavandi, secretary, lolbrook, AZ 86025, or phone 602-524-3199.
THE BAHA'f GROUP of Pine Bluff, Arkansas (a goal area) needs Baha'i students to help form a Baha'f Club at the University of Arkansas. Pine Bluff is 32 miles south of Little Rock, site of the land-grant university where the Hand of the Cause of God Louis Gregory spent about two weeks teaching during the Seven Year Plan in 1939. The seeds have been sown, and we need help to bring in the harvest. If you are interested in becoming a homefront pioneer in a friendly environment, we invite you to try “the natural state.” For more information, please phone Peter Johnson, 501-5347658, or write to Don or Gwen Crabb, P.O. Box 9581, Pine Bluff, AR 71611.
WANTED
RED GRAMMER is undertaking a recording, project (sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Beacon, New York) and is looking for original songs with Baha'i themes written by children (ages 14 years and under). Please send name, age, address and telephone number with a cassette recording of your song (nonreturnable) and lyric sheet to Laurie Early, c/o BIC, Suite 120, 866 United Nations Plaza, New York, NY 10017. All proceeds will go to Baha'f school scholarship funds.
NEEDED: Children’s books in usable/ ood condition for a Baha’i school lirary in Kampala, Uganda. Early child hood, ages 3-5, especially sought but children’s books for all ages will be welcome. Contact brand self-adhesive clear covering is also needed. Please send by air mail or first class, if possible, since sea mail may take one year or more for delivery, to: Auntie Claire's Kindergarten/School, P.O. Box 14272, Kampala, Uganda.
AVAILABLE
WHY NOT consider presenting a theatre fireside? A free script of “Day of Decision,” a three-act play about the
Faith, is offered as a teaching vehicle to any community. Please request it from Dawn Edwards,
Salt Lake City, UT 84106 (phone 801-2641199). A posting cost of six stamps would be welcomed:, $ c
MISCELLANEOUS
DESERT ROSE logo competition. Deadline: November 1. Mailing address: P.O. Box 35521, Tucson, AZ 85740 (phone 602-742-3766). Contents: the logo will be used for all letterheads and conference literature. Colors: two colors may be chosen. Presentation format: the logo should not be presented on anything, larger than a letter-sized sheet of paper. Conditions: the logo should be pictureready, and all publication rights should be given to the Desert Rose Committee. Prize: accommodations and registration for the 1994 Desert Rose Baha'i School.
LOST ITEMS found at the Green Lake Baha'i Conference in Wisconsin may be claimed by contacting the American Baptist Assembly directly at 800-558-8898 or by contacting Lori Block,
Green Bay, WI 54301 (phone 414-4327110).
BOOKS, PERIODICALS
ANNOUNCING the latest edition of Orison, a small arts journal published by the Baha’ Institute for the Arts, a section of the Association for Baha'i Studies. The issue, dedicated to the memory of Baha'i poet Roger White, includes a biographical statement on Mr. White by Duane Herrmann; poetry about him by Alix Vance, Anneke Buys, Michael Fitzgerald, Larry Rowdon, Carol Handy, Sheila Banani, Ken Ridley and Margot McKague; an article on calligraphy by Keith Eldridge; an essay on poetry and belief by Mr. Fitzgerald; additional poems by Janet Ruhe and Linda O'Neil; and reports on a writers’ group in Ottawa and a Baha'i arts group in Texas. The cover features handmade paper and color art by Lorraine Phillips. Copies of Orison may be ordered by sending $4 plus 75 cents (U.S.) for shipping to Anne Gordon Perry, editor, Dallas, TX 75206. Submissions for the next issue are also welcome.
Tennessee youth receive last-minute instructions (above left) before goir
‘ILM 8.€. 151 / October 16, 1994
ng out to teach in a Cleveland park (above right). Photos by Tom Mennillo.
Army of Light: A taste of victories to come
By Tom Mennillo
If the first summer of Army of Light youth teaching can be termed victorious, it still was merely a taste of what is to come.
Extensive plans are being made to build on the young soldiers’ initial forays into the field.
A major step will be taken at the “Army of Light Boot Camp: A National Youth Conference for Preparing the Soldiérs,” December 23-26 in Phoenix, Arizona.
This recruitment and training ground, sponsored by the National Youth Task Force, is designed to inspire, uplift and motivate young Baha'is to serve humanity through this great Cause
It will be held at the same time and place as the Grand Canyon Baha’i Conference, though with separate registration.
Also, Army of Light coordinators are working to foster even greater cooperation between the campaign and local Baha’i communities
This past summer, Spiritual Assemblies, registered Groups, and teaching institutes reported more than 100 projects—lasting from one day to nine or 10 weeks—geared to the Army of Light.
(To report further news of projects, please call National Coordinator Dorita Krapf at 815-478-5560 or write to her or Ada James c/o the National Teaching Committee, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.)
Some projects have been hampered because specific language skills are lacking or because visiting volunteers are not available to augment local youth.
An insufficient number of volunteers also is limiting projects that require a long-term commitment. Many places, especially troubled city neighborhoods, need Baha’i youth over a period of time who can make friends and influence values and behaviors.
Coordinators hope that consultation at the local and district levels and at Baha’i summer and winter schools will mobilize many more
volunteers to share the healing message of Bahd’u‘llah.
In that consultation, though, they will have as inspiration the dozens of creative, effective efforts that took place across the country this summer.
Some were educational programs such as day care, moral development and adult literacy classes, and reading readiness development for
a series of concerts in Maryland by Baha'i folk singer Mary Davis.
In Tennessee, a hands-on participation booth gave festival-goers a chance to design their own expression of unity for a quilt to be publicly displayed later. Improvisational music in the park in White Plains, New York, drew seekers who were met by additional Baha’f teachers
that opportunities were missed; problems with internal communications and with personality conflicts.
But the overwhelming occurrence of the expression “next year we hope to ...” justifies optimism. Communities see the initial venture as an experience from which they will learn much. Then watch what happens!
young children
Others involved physical service, including rehabilitation of a slave cemetery, various cleaning and beautification projects on public property, and maintenance of an Indian Reservation school.
In Stamford, Connecticut, Baha’is hosted a soccer tournament based on cooperation rather than competition as a distinctive way to teach the Faith.
Arts-related efforts went beyond the performances of Baha’i Youth Workshops to public visual arts displays related to the Faith, dramatic presentations at firesides, and
bearing literature and invitations.
Many projects maximized exposure through news media and cable access television. In some cases, they were shaped around popular local events, thus guaranteeing a large audience of observers who may prove to be seekers.
Direct teaching on the streets, beaches and in mall concourses of America played a vital role in many plans.
Feedback from Baha’i communities has been encouraging.
All can tell tales of challenges: events that were underplanned, overplanned or so slowly planned
Participants in a nine-day Army of Light teaching project in Amherst, New York, pause for a pose. From July 16-25, they distributed more than 3,000 invitations, took part in two unity picnics, nine dawn prayer gatherings and eight firesides, and touched numerous hearts.
THe AMERICAN BaHA'l Ree RR ST STOR
Army of Light: Workshops step into role
It isn’t surprising that Baha’i Youth Workshops played a leading role in the first summer of Army of Light youth teaching.
After all, the Workshops went into the campaign already organized and confident of their ability to win hearts for Baha’u'llah.
Here are some reports of how Workshops showed the way:
Little Rock, Arkansas
The Atlanta Baha’f Youth Workshop and other Baha’fs made up about five percent of participants in the Martin Luther King “I Have a Dream” National Youth Assembly in Little Rock, but their influence went far beyond their numbers.
Among those taking part in the conference was Alberta Deas, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly.
Ata luncheon for Coretta Scott King that was attended by many dignitaries and covered by local television, the Atlanta Workshop performed a newly choreographed step dance for an audience of 1,200. The dance carried the theme and vocal expression: “Arise, O Army of Light.”
Cornelia Rutledge, the National Spiritual Assembly's representative on the planning committee, said the performance brought “a gust of spiritual hope to the gathered.”
The Atlanta Workshop “went to great lengths to attend the conference, preparing for months to make the journey successful,” she said. “They planned carefully, consulted with the national representative on a regular basis, and responded maturely, efficiently and reliably to the requests of the Baha’{ representative as well as the national coordinator.”
That evening, at a fireside, the founder of an organization called Youth Taking Action declared his belief in Baha'u'llah. The youth, James Plummer, recently served in a White House delegation to Europe for his activism.
Again, the next day, the members. of the Atlanta Workshop performed, in the conference variety /talent show. After a full introduction on the Faith, they presented a rap on the equality of men and women. They
also offered literature on the Faith and information on Baha’i Youth Workshops.
Afterward, the stage was crowded with people wanting to know more. The Workshop has been following up with as many of those individuals as possible, and shared Arkansas addresses with Lisa Armstrong, the local youth coordinator.
All this was enough for the professional conference organizers to ask Ms. Rutledge a rush of questions:
“Who are these youth?” “What
makes them so different?” “Why are they so disciplined?” and, most important, “What is the Baha’f Faith?”
Also at the conference, a Baha’i prayer for unity was offered at the beginning of a session by Damond Gordon, a youth leader who has been a close friend of the Faith for several years.
Bahd’is Barbara and Shawn Talley conducted workshops on Baha’i themes.
Indiana
About 130 youth from 13 Baha’i Youth Workshops around the Midwest descended on Indianapolis and other Indiana cities in August for the “Heart of the Heartland” Summer Youth Teaching Project, the impact of which will be felt for years.
The youth taught through many performances, including four at the State Fair, as well as on the streets and through public service projects.
After one performance in a park, a woman approached local coordinator Marlene Ebert.
“have to apologize to you,” said the woman. “I am so sorry. When I heard the Baha’is were going to be doing things in the park, I called the head of the city park administration and demanded that you not be given access to this forum. I thought you were a cult. I was wrong.”
She attended every subsequent performance, received material on the Faith, and said she will be keeping in touch.
A similar story came out of a planned performance at a YMCA day
care program in Anderson, Indiana.
When Workshop members arrived there, they found that the director had changed his mind. Nevertheless, the group went across the street to a park to say prayers and rehearse.
Soon, large numbers of children began to gather. When asked where they were from, the children said they were the YMCA day care group.
The troupe performed for them, right there in the park. Same audience, different forum.
While in Indianapolis, some of the youth also taped a segment of a cable television series called “Peaceworks.”
Originally, the youth were to tape two half-hour programs. But when the producer saw that they were so young, she said, “Let's just do one.” Staff were looking bored and disgusted.
The looks of the crew turned to amazement, however, as the Workshop members displayed professional behavior in the studio and began to perform quality peace themed material.
The producer later apologized for her doubts and said she would like to film another set. “I didn’t know they were going to be good,” she said.
The show will air to thousands of viewers across central Indiana and pethaps be picked up by other cable systems that exchange programming.
Overall, the Heart of the Heartland project saw great service and sacrifice by the youth, and by adult leaders who struggled to keep a positive outlook in the face of large and numerous challenges.
The project also opened many opportunities for further teaching in the area. As the park district activities director said to Ms. Ebert when apologizing for the failings of the department's staff:
“We need you. Come with me to meet with the mayor to plan for next year. We can make it what it was supposed to be.”
Arizona
The members of the Eternal Flame Baha’i Youth Workshop ended a threeweek teaching project called “Lighting the Eternal Flame” with a performance August 12 at Arizona State University for their parents, communities and friends.
Their standing ovation performance of singing, acting and dancing was centered around the theme of unity, the oneness of humankind, and the elimination of all forms of prejudice.
The group is made up of 24 youth of many cultural backgrounds from communities in the metropolitan Phoenix area, Tucson, and Yuma. Ina span of less than two months, this newly formed Workshop assembled a powerful show that enabled the participants to establish their own personal Baha’i identities.
The teaching trip, organized under the auspices of the Spiritual Assembly of Gilbert, was funded through garage sales, car washes, and contributions by individuals and Assemblies throughout the state. More than $12,000 was raised.
On the trip, the youth went to northern and southern Arizona for two weeks and to the Los Angeles
area for a week. They performed in local community centers, youth clubs and shopping malls, attracting between 50 and 120 people for each show.
Four declarations have resulted from the trip, two of which led to the formation of the first local Spiritual Assembly in Holbrook.
Los Angeles
Righty youth from the Los Angeles, California, area took part in an intense flurry of performances during the Baha’i Youth Workshop’s -Summer teaching project in July.
First, smaller groups of youth piled into two vans for separate tours of Northern California and Arizona. They performed for large crowds at Boys and Girls Clubs and at the Native American Baha’j Institute in Houck, Arizona, in addition to many other locations.
“They brought a lot of energy and performed to busloads of spectators in some cases,” said Aaron Gilbert, a participant in Arizona’s own Baha’i Youth Workshop.
The 22-member Los Angeles Workshop gave a series of dynamic presentations in Navajoland while visiting the Native American Baha’i Institute.
The mostly Navajo communities in the area were treated to powerful messages about the need for racial harmony, equality of the sexes, and spirituality for the world.
An.immediate result of the Workshop’s presentations were two declarations of belief in Baha’u’llah.
About 33 local youth (eight fulltime) studied the Workshop carefully with an eye toward starting one of their own on the Navajo Reservation. Of the 33 young people, 16 are Navajo.
Some of the youth who had stopped taking part in Baha’ activities came back to NABI to be with the Workshop, and local youth accompanied the performers to each major engagement in Arizona and New Mexico.
The goal of staff at NABI is to see that this popular activity brings more “spiritual warriors” into Baha’u'llah’s Army of Light on the Navajo and Hopi Reservations.
Upon their return to Los Angeles, the Workshop launched a series of focus perfomances in the Los Angeles-area communities of Agoura Hills, Moorpark, Oak Park, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks and Westlake.
Marisol Thurman described their goal in a news release, saying:
“Instead of ‘hanging out’ at the mall, these youth will be ‘getting down’ at the mall, using rap, step
break from their endeavors.
dancing, drama and interpretive dance to send a message to other youth.”
The message: help end racism, stay in school, get off drugs and promote gender equality.
In sending that message, the Workshop went a long way toward infusing the spirit of transformation into the communities it visited and a long way toward initiating the processes of growth called for in the Three Year Plan.
Representatives of each community worked together for a month to plan 11 performances over a four-day period (July 14-17). About 1,300 people, most of them non-Bahda’is,
‘Heart of the Heartland’ Youth Teaching Project participants in Indiana take a
attended the performances and the
response was phenomenal.
In Simi Valley, a performance at a junior high summer school was attended by 400 students and faculty. As a result of that performance, four seekers are actively attending firesides, the principal invited the Workshop back to perform during, the school year, and a front-page article with photo appeared in the local newspaper under the headline “Dancers Promote Racial Harmony.”
Other performances were scheduled at parks, a mall, a day camp, a Boys and Girls Club, and a community teen center. The project culminated with an extended performance at a public
11
Adanta Bahai Youth Workshop members huddle for a photo during their successful, inspiring trip to the ‘I Have a Dream’ National Youth Assembly in Little Rock, Arkansas.
meeting attended by 230 people.
Throughout the teaching project, more than 600 pieces of literature were distributed, advertisements appeared in local newspapers, announcements were made on local cable television, and three articles appeared in local newspapers.
Three school principals attended performances, and all three have invited the Workshop to perform at their schools, including a high school with 2,100 students and a Baha’f on the faculty.
Invitations for the Workshop to perform at a regional mall and an agency serving at-risk children and
Representatives of each community worked together for a month to plan 11 performances over a four-day period. About 1,300 people, most of them non-Baha’is, attended the performances and the response was phenomenal.
youth have also resulted from the teaching project.
Each community has held followup firesides, and a study class has been formed for seekers who have asked for a more in-depth study of the Faith.
The success of the project also has energized and unified the six communities that worked together to plan the project and to provide food, lodging and transportation for the 25 youth and adults who were a part of the Workshop.
National Spiritual Assembly prepares to meet with Canadian, Mexican colleagues
Continued from page |
to ensure the progress of teaching and consolidation.
The National Assembly discussed issues to be taken up at its forthcoming meetings with the National Spiritual Assemblies of Mexico and Canada, including border teaching and other cooperative endeavors.
The National Spiritual Assembly met with its Educational Task Force, which presented detailed plans for further expansion of its activities in training Baha'{ teachers and providing materials for educating children. The
National Assembly expressed its joy in the successes already achieved by the
Task Force.
The National Assembly also considered proposals by an ad hoc committee to create an Institute for Baha’{ Studies that would prepare long-range plans for programs at summer schools, establish relations with academic institutions, and conduct research on topics the National Assembly might assign.
The National Spiritual Assembly voted to establish an ad hoc committee to present proposals for a serious expansion of activities directed toward the
advancement of women.
Decisions!
au a from the pages
Start at the star. Follow the path by making decisions at each fork. Return to the star.
Calendar Word Search
SOVEREIGNTYLIGN APOWERFEHONOGLA JGGLORYGRTEFROM UERFECIWSASTARE SPAAHMWILPPINGS TONSCOESPLENDOR IGN DFE SROE NDE NC EVE GH CDEHONUORALSCOM ESUIWOWMRWISRHA PERFECTIONMPEOJ IRLORITONLEJEUNE LIGHTAKIILWORDS EQUESTIONSOVECT DUEPOWENSBEAUTY
Your FRIENDS ARE TALKING
Asked TO Make A SPEECH IN CUNSS
PR CN 1m, Bechese >
LY i.
>
sy
%
Reprinted from Brilliant Star, Courage, ‘March/April 1994, by Pepper P. Oldziey
Find the names of the Baha’f months
and days of the week that are listed below. These names are from the Badf calendar which was given to us by the Bab. The calendar has 19 months of 19 days with 4 days for Ayyam-i-H4. The months and days are named after the attributes of God.
Months
Splendor Glory Beauty Grandeur Light Mercy Words. Perfection Names Might Will Knowledge Power Speech Questions Honor Sovereignty Dominion Loftiness
Days of the Week
Beauty Perfection Grace Justice Majesty Independence Glory
Beauty, Glory, and Perfection are listed only
one time in the puzzle.
“Brilliant Star.
(oat. Ate Order Now!
Special Edition 1994
From Gnats to Eagles
wet
Brilliant Stag |
This special issue on America’s Spiritual Destiny, developed for use by Bahd't summer schools, is now available for purchase by everyone through the
Bahd’t Distribution Service! Pu
chase Single Issues, Back Issues, Special Editions and Bulk Orders from
Bahdé'i Distribution Service:
Five or more copies of any issue cost $2.00 each. One to four copies cost $3.00 each. Back issues available in limited quantities.
Call: 1-800-999-9019
You may add your single or bulk issue order to the BDS order form on another page in this newspaper.
( Purchase a Subscription from \
Baha'i Subscriber Service:
Please enter my subscription for (check box) Q $15 United States, one year (six issues)
Q $28 United States, two years
Q $15 All other countries, surface mail, one year Q $28 All other countries, surface mail, two years $26 Airmail, one year
$50 Airmail, two years
Baha'f ID # Name
Street City & State Zip/Postal code
Payment must be enclosed. Canadian/International orders enclose international money order or bank cheque drawn ona U.S. bank in U. S. dollars. To charge your VISA/MC account, give number, expiration date, and name on account. Telephone orders accepted.
VISA/MC #
Exp. Date
Make check out and mail to: Bahd't Subscriber Service
Bahd‘i National Center Wilmette, IL 60091
\ 1-708-733-3453 )
Reprinted from Brilliant Star, Starship, July/August 1994, by Meg Anderson ©1994
Name
During May and June, more than
300 people declared their faith in
Baha'u'llah in the ongoing Dr.
Muhdjir South Plateau Teaching,
Campaign in Nigeria. The teaching
team presented books on the Faith to
members of local governments in
Awe and Lafia, among whom were
two chiefs of police and six members
of the Department of Information.
About 2,400 people in five villages
watched a slide presentation on the
Bahd'f World Center. Since Ridvan, a
total of 32 new local Spiritual Assemblies have been formed, while
children's classes have been held in
nine communities involving more
than 200 children.
.
In May, three Baha'is traveled from Astrakhan to Makhachkala and then to Elista to spread the Message of Baha'u'll4h in Russia, Georgia and Armenia. The endeavor, named in honor of the Hand of the Cause Rahmatu'llah Muhdjir, resulted in 33 enrollments in Astrakhan, 46 in Makhachkala, and 17 in Elista. The group spent 11 days in each city, where they held street-teachi activities and evening firesides. Presentations on the Faith were given at universities and institutes, and Baha'i book exhibits were held at public libraries, museums and cultural centers.
°
Teams from the Youth Teaching Campaign, which was launched May 15 witha youth camp at the Rabbani Baha'{ School in Gwalior, India, have reported with great enthusiasm:
¢ In Nepal, the friends held a dozen successful book exhibits and recorded 12 enrollments, six at ‘Gorakhpur and six at Chori-Chora. Public meetings and book exhibits also were held at railway stations.
¢ The Himachal Pradesh team organized public meetings in five villages, each of which was attended by at least 100 villagers. The residents were quite receptive, sayii they hoped the Baha'is would visit them again.
- There were 64 declarations at
Karsan in Punjab, where a talk on the Faith was given. At Faridkot, mostly women staff and girls received the Message in schools.
Nine African-American Baha'i
Nine African-American Baha’i women who recently returned from South Africa found th ple there upbeat and hopeful about possibilities
Pictured are many of the more than 50 Bah
cae
who took part in a recent ‘Story of
Life’ Institute at the Baha'i Center in Vunabang-Ralubang, Papua New Guinea. Speakers addressed such topics as the purpose of human life, human virtues,
At Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, where Hindus had stayed away from the Faith because many Muslims have accepted Baha'u'llah, the visiting youth opened their minds. The young volunteers organized book exhibits and visited many schools and colleges.
¢ In Jammu and Kashmir, three successful book exhibits were organized and the Faith received wide media coverage.
¢ In Manipur, 30 more youth have joined the three visiting teachers.
°
Experts on family violence gathered May 23-25 at the UNICEF House in New York City to develop a specific plan of action for establishing violence-free families throughout the world. Entitled “Strategies for Creating a Violence-Free Family,” the symposium was initiated and planned by the Baha'i International Community's Office for the Advancement of Women and was co-sponsored by the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the lopment Fund for Women (UNIFEM). Among the speakers. were Karin Sham Foo, deputy executive director of UNICEF; Hlengiwe Mkhize, director of the
peo
requisites for spiritual growth, the nature of the soul and its progress after death,
and the necessity of a goodly character.
Children and Violence Project, University of Witwatersrand, South Africa; and Alda Facio, an attorney from Costa Rica who is director of the Latin American United Nations. Institute for Crime Prevention.
°
About 200 young people from throughout the Americas took part in late July in the Latin American Baha't Youth Conference in Brazil. Parti pants came from Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, El Salvador, Norway, Paraguay, Peru, Puerto Rico, Uruguay and the United States. Three main teaching activities were scheduled to follow the conference: the Faizi Project in Bolivia, a teaching campaign in Brasilia, and another coordinated by the National Teaching Committee of Brazil.
.
Two major activities were held in May at the Baha'i House of Worship in Mona Vale, Australia. More than 400 people attended the two events, including many local dignitaries and other non-Baha'is. On May 22, a service was held to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Declaration of the Bab. And to honor the Week of Prayer for Aboriginal
isters to cross
‘ILm B.€. 151 / Octoser 16, 1994
facing them,” and vestiges of apartheid were still apparent, but
it
13
Reconciliation, a ceremony was held May 29, after which an Aboriginal Baha’'f artist was given an award of excellence as part of an annual event organized by the Baha'i Business and Professional Association to recognize an outstanding achievement by a Baha’'f in business, trades, the arts, or humanitarianism.
Traveling teacher Daniel Makoski, a Baha'j youth from the United States, spearheaded a project in Ghana and Cameroon from April through June during which several youth workshops were formed for young people who use the arts, especially dancing, as a medium for teaching the Faith. About 25 people ages 12-39 took part in the project in Ghana, which began with a threeweek training program in Gyankama (about 45 minutes from Accra). They learned dances that reflect the principles of the Faith such as the importance of prayer and freedom from prejudices. To these dances, the youth added traditional dances and Baha'i songs. Afterward, the young people performed at the National Convention before embarking on a two-week tour, performing mainly in villages and witnessing more than 130 declarations. In Cameroon, the group had two and one-half weeks of training followed by four weeks of teaching. They created four sketches and one new dance. During the course of the workshop, one youth became a Baha’.
Since late 1993, the Faith has been included in the comparative religions curriculum at Chunnam University in Korea. The hour-long lecture on the Faith includes the basic teachings of Baha'u'llah, followed by a brief explanation of its principles outlined in an introductory pamphlet, and a question-and-answer period. In early 1994, the classes were quite large— one had 467 students and another had 553, for a total of 1,020. Each student received a copy of an introductory pamphlet on the Faith and a summary of the Universal House of Justice's peace statement.
women from U.S. ‘refocused’ after upbeat visit to South Africa challenged many of African-Americans’ notions about the mother continent. In the letter, she invited her African-American Baha’i
she said. “Collectively, the residues
under the new government.
Gloria Haithman-Ali, Aurore Ragston, Iris Bell, Ebonee Bell, Earnestine Berkey, Jeanais Brodie, Anna Cooprider, Joy Leary and Beverly Moore, all from the West Coast, traveled more than 30,000 miles in a journey that took them also to Namibia, Lesotho, Botswana and the Holy Land.
They spoke at firesides, in broadcast interviews, and in presentations to student and women’s groups.
Most important, they “met and made a myriad friends from diverse cultures and backgrounds,” according to Ms. Haithman-Ali.
The trip was spurred by a letter from Bonnie Franklin-Moore, a longtime pioneer to Africa, that
the Atlantic to meet Africans in a spirit of mutual friendship and encouragement.
Thus evolved the Zimarian Walker “Sister-toSister” Travel Teaching Project, named for the woman who introduced Bonnie Franklin-Moore to the Faith.
The nine met near Albany, Oregon, before their journey to consult on ways to energize the spiritual lives and teaching work of African-American Baha’f women.
Once in Africa, the women were impressed by “the beauty of the people and the vastness of the land,” said Ms. Haithman-Ali.
“On an individual level, the people were warm, friendly, curious and anxious about the challenges
greatly subdued by the spirit and obvious determination of people of all races to create a better life for themselves and their country.”
In the Holy Land, the group visited the Baha’i Shrines and the International Teaching Center, and met with Universal House of Justice member ‘Alf Nakhjavani.
The women then returned to America, “renewed and refocused,” according to Ms. Haithman-Ali.
“The sisters were honored to be able to sing praises, give honor and thanks to their Lord in Africa, the Middle East and Europe,” she said. “The bounty they shared was, and continues to be, boundless.”
Plans are under way for another group of AfricanAmerican women to extend the goodwill mission.
Vineyard os the Lord. part 5
Center for Study of the Texts
“This building will be the seat of an institution of Baha'i scholars, the efflorescence of the present Research Department of the World Center, which will assist the Universal House of Justice in consulting the Sacred Writings, and will prepare translations of and commentaries on the authentic texts of the Faith.” —Letter from the Universal House of Justice, August 31, 1987
°
The design concept of the Center for the Study of the Texts is centered around its integration into the mountain topography to keep it in harmony with the existing Arc buildings—the International Archives and the Seat of the Universal House of Justice. The Center for the Study of the Texts (CST) will stand adjacent to the Archives Extension (AE) and will be linked to it by means of a common parking facility.
The CST/AE structure is oriented west of the Seat of the House of Justice. The building plans are presented as nine levels. The basement has a library situated around a lightwell with a fountain in the center; around the library are office areas and storage spaces. The next level, which is the ground floor, has offices, two meeting rooms, an exhibition area and a conference room. The first and second floors have similar working areas. The next four levels have service and maintenance areas.
Acircular portico in the Ionic order will be the only part of the building of the CST that will be visible like a pavilion in the gardens and will be made of Pentelikon marble. The rest of the building is designed into the mountain, and its exterior surfaces are in local stone and gradually become a part of the landscape. The roof of the building will appear like terraces covered with flower beds and ornamental gardens. Lightwells
sand skylights will provide natural light to nearly all of the main areas.
The structural design of the building ensures maximum future flexibility in assigning working areas. This has been accomplished through the use of large spans, greater floor height, and higher live loads allowances. Since the mountain has been hollowed out to provide a rocky nest for the CST, building stability is achieved primarily by the perimeter exterior walls and interior stair, elevator and shear walls. A noteworthy feature in the structural design is that the design solutions take into account the duration of at least 500 years for the building, a feature without precedent among present architectural standards. .
With work speeding up at the site of the Center for the Study of the Texts, another tower crane is being assembled (right photo) close to the location of the parking building and car tunnel.
Terrace gardens
“Come with me that we may admire together the beauty of the garden. Behold, what the spirit of devotion is able to achieve! This flourishing place was, a few years ago, but a heap of stones, and now it is verdant with foliage and flowers. My desire is that after 1am gone the loved ones may all arise to serve the divine Cause and, please God, so it shall
be. Ere long men will arise who shall bring life to the world. ...” —Extracts from “The Passing of ‘Abdu’l-Baha,” a compilation prepared in January 1922 by Shoghi Effendi and Lady Blomfield for The Baha'i Yearbook, vol. 1, 1925-26
The above quoted words are the recollection of Isma’il Aq, the faithful servant of ‘Abdu’l-Bahé, who
_THE AMERICAN Bana'l 14
The foundations are being laid (left photo) for the construction of the Center for the Study of the Texts and the extension of the International Archives Building.
overheard the Master say them to an elderly believer some 20 days before He passed away. These words bring home the spiritual significance that the garden holds in the estimation of the beloved Master. That significance is further reinforced when we read the description of the Universal House of Justice as it writes about the Monumental Terraces and Gardens being developed above and below the Shrine of the Bab: “The beauty and magnificence of the Gardens and Terraces now under development are symbolic of the nature of the transformation which is destined to occur both within the hearts of the world's peoples and in the physical environment of the planet.”—Letter from the Universal House of Justice dated January 4, 1994
The concept animating the landscape of the Terrace Gardens, like other details of the Terraces, is to highlight the sublimity of the Shrine of the Bab, and to serve as a constant reminder to the Baha'i pilgrim and visitor of the spiritual symbolism underlying its creation. The gardens dramatically manifest the spiritual reality, and enable it to be perceived through the sens
The central axis of the Terraces will have formal gardens with each Terrace reflecting its own character, gradually radiating outward into a more formal environment. There is consistency in the design of the Terraces but infinite variety in detail. Lovely fountains, ornamental gates, balustrades and indigenous species of flowers have all been incorporated in the gardens. Care has been taken to choose a variety of plants so that the gardens may be in bloom throughout the year. Careful thought has been given to the combination of colors; in particular, various shades of red like geraniums, bougainvillea,
[Page 15]
‘The Are
bottle brush, flame and coral trees have been selected in keeping with the gardens laid out by the beloved Guardian.
The informal forest areas have a variety of wildflowers and trees, many of them evergreen trees and olive trees.
Above all, the landscaping of the
gardens has been done in a manner that is in harmony with the architectural elements, and not overpowering the other features.
The gardens are to serve as an oasis of peace for humans as well as for wildlife, so that the forests may attract birds and butterflies, enhancing the beauty of the gardens.
fe concrete fountain pool on Terrace nine; below the Shrine of the Bab, is being decorated with cut and carved sajur, one of the finest stones quarried in Israel.
“The united efforts of Baha'is in every land will yield not only the material means to complete the Mount Carmel Projects but will draw down divine confirmations on the work. It is inevitable that in a project of such size, a large portion of the money will have to come from those Baha'is who are endowed with wealth, whether this be to a moderate degree or of a considerable magnitude. The $74,000,000 called for during the years of the Three Year Plan is a sum that is difficult for many friends to visualize. Some have written to suggest means of making the contribution of this large sum manageable. One suggested the idea of breaking it into units. Thus, to assist in visualizing this sum one can regard it as being a little over 8,000 units of $9,000 each. Individuals with means can use this as a measure of whether they feel able, with sacrifice, to give one or more units of $9,000 in this time. Local communities or other groups may wish to set collective goals on such a unit basis. This may be helpful but, of course, contributions of any size will constitute a vital part of the stream of means for the accomplishment of this historic enterprise.”—From a letter of October 31, 1993, written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice
‘ILM B.€. 151 / October 16, 1994
a6
hie RS: a
This photograph, taken June 1, shows the progress being made on waterproofing the bridge crossing Abbas Street that links Terraces four and five below the Shrine of the Bab.
Progress being made ona retaining wall for the bridge that will connect Terraces four and five is shown in this photograph. In the background, the olive trees planted recently are beginning to flourish.
Physical dimensions of the Arc and the Terraces
The projects of the Arc and Terraces on Mt. Carmel are of a scale which has not been undertaken before by the Baha'i world community.
Below are the estimated figures of the building areas of the International Teaching Center and the Center for the Study of the Texts/ Archives Extension on the Arc.
Also included are dimensions of the 19 monumental Terraces above and below the Shrine of the Bab.
The International Teaching Center
The total floor area of the International Teaching Center is approximately 19,313 square meters (about 63,733 square feet).
It comprises the main nine-story building, the parking building and other external areas known as “common area.”
The breakdown is as follows:
- International Teaching Center: 8,400 sq. meters (27,720 sq. feet)
- Common Area: 6,000 sq. meters (19,800 sq. feet)
- Parking Building: 4,913 sq. meters (16,213 sq. feet)
Center for the Study of the Texts/Archives Extension
The total floor area of the Center for the Study of the Texts, and the extension to the existing Archives Building, is approximately 16,650 square meters (54,945 sq. feet). The breakdown is as follows:
¢ Center for the Study of the Texts (and parking area): 14,222 sq. meters (46,932 sq. feet)
¢ Archives Extension: 2,338 sq. meters (7,715 sq. feet) Terraces above and below the Shrine of the Bab
The Terraces stretch about a kilometer up Mt. Carmel reaching a height of 225 meters (742.5 feet), and their landscape spans the mountain from about 60 meters (198 feet) to 300 meters 990 feet).
Each of the Lower Terraces, with the exception of Terrace 1, which is special with an entrance plaza, is 35 meters (115.5 feet) in diameter.
On the Upper Terraces, Nos. 13, 15 and 17 are 41 meters (135.3 feet) in diameter at their widest point, as they have circular stairs on both sides. Like the first Terrace, the uppermost Terrace 19 is also special in design.
Lis aM ek
THe American BAHA'i
Baha'is in Portland take part in interfaith dialogue
The Baha'is of Portland, Oregon, recently took part in an interfaith dialogue on how prayer and meditation can be used as peace-building tools.
More than 300 people gathered to hear representatives of Christianity, Islam and the Baha’f Faith speak of their spiritual experiences. The session was sponsored by Sant Rajinder Singh, whose Science of Spirituality advocates meditation as the means for people of all religions to reach a realization of self and of God.
Michael Sears, a member of the
Spiritual Assembly of Portland, captured the audience by opening his comments with the prayer “Blessed Is the Spot,” followed by the prayer for unity.
He then outlined the teachings of Baha’u’llah, using appropriate quotations from the Writings, and closed by reciting statistics that reflect the spread of the Faith.
Ata reception after the dialogue, a number of young people gathered around Dr. Sears and other Baha’fs to ask questions.
The next day Lydia A. McCarter, an
assistant to the Auxiliary Board, represented the Baha’fs at an interfaith luncheon.
Ms. McCarter and a Unity Church minister offered prayers, and a consultation followed in which she presented a perspective on Baha'i obligatory and other prayers.
She also was asked about her travels, which opened the door for her to talk about the Baha’i World Center in Haifa, Israel, and the Baha’i House of Worship in India.
Arthur Stein, chairman for both interfaith sessions, remarked about
Featured Speakers and Workshop Leaders
Mr. Ray Alan Johnson Mrs. Theima Thomas Kheighati Mrs. Florence V. Mayberry
Mr. Jack E. McCants
Judge James F. Nelson
Judge Dorothy W. Nelson
Ms. Barbara Rodey
Mrs. Margaret K. Ruhe
Dr. David S. Ruhe
Plus forty-seven others.
Music and Song Narges Mr. Tom Price North American Baha'i Conference Orchestra and Choir Plus other well-known artists.
Special Baha'i group discount rates: Hotel rooms at the Buena Vista Palace Hotel at Walt Disney World Village: $99 per night double loccupancy.
LIMITED AVAILABILITY CALL PROMPTLY
Hotel reservations: 1-800-327-2990
Airfare discounts from Delta Airlines Call either American Travel Consultants 1-800-393-5050 (outside North America 407-679-6655) or Delta Airlines 1-800-241-6760 (In Canada, call local Delta Office) (For discount, refer to file No. B1688)
December 8 - Il, 1994
1994 North American Baha'i Conference on
Social and Economic Development
The Baha'i Family for the Time of the Lesser Peace
“The oneness of mankind a dynamic coherence between the spiritual and practical requirements of life on earth ... The concept of social and economic development is enshrined in the sacred Teachings of our Faith.”
The Rabbani Charitable Trust warmly invites you to attend the 1994 North American Bah4‘f Conference on Social and Economic Development - The Bahd‘f Family for the Time of the Lesser Peace.
This conference presents a unique opportunity for Baha ‘fs of all backgrounds and experiences to gather together...
implies the achievement of
The Universal House of Justice
Walt Disney World Mile VCe Orlando, Florida
..To gain a deeper understanding of the principles and practices of Bahé‘t social and economic development as they relate to our families, our communities, our nations, and our world.
«To forge action plans to achieve family developmental goals of the Three Year Plan.
..To network, to share experiences and success stories, and to integrate our efforts for change.
Featured at the conference will be:
Speakers:
‘from the National Spiritual Assemblies in North America, the Continental Board of Counsellors, and many other intimately involved in development efforts of Baha’t family life.
Adult Registration fee
Before November 10: $129 After November 10: $149 Nominal food & materials charge for youth & children
Before November 10: $49 After November 10: $59 Make checks payable to: North American Baha’f Conference
1477 W. Fairbanks Av., Ste 200 Winter Park, FL 32789 Registration Information call: (407) 740-5415 or 647-7777
Conference begins with 8:00 pm reception, Thursday, December 8, and concludes 12:30 pm, Sunday, December IL, 1994.
Registration
North American Baha'i Conference on Social and Economic Development
Special Programs for youth and children.
Workshops in the areas of:
Marriage and Family Life; Character Training and Development-Spiritualizing the Bahd’f Household; Parenting; Education in the Baha’f Family-Physical, Intellectual, and Spiritual; Developing a Generation of Prejudice-Free Children and Youth; Culture in the Baha't Family
Displays of books and tapes including “Author Signing” sessions.
& children attending
Please print Name Phone ( ) Address City State Zip Names and ages of youth Amount Enclosed
the beauty and grandeur of the Temple in India and said, “The Temple could not have been constructed but through Baha’u’lléh.” Dr. Stein, it was later learned, has shared a radio program in Rhode Island with members of the Faith. The interfaith dialogue also afforded the Baha'is an opportunity to display The Promise of World Peace, The Vision of Race Unity, and the Models of Unity report produced by the Spiritual Assembly of Portland and the Human Rights Commission. Many attendees picked up copies.
L.A. Arts Council plans Bay-area tour of play, ‘Prisoners of the Heart’
The Los Angeles Baha'i Arts Council has announced plans for a San Francisco Bay-area tour of its latest production, “Prisoners of the Heart.”
The three-city tour is part of a larger fund-raising effort to underwrite a commercial production of the play in the Los Angeles area.
The play recounts the story of the 10 Bahé'f women of Shiraz, Iran, who were martyred in 1983 for their belief in Baha'u'llah. It is presented as a human rights play dealing with issues such as the equality of women and men and the freedom of religious expression.
“Prisoners of the Heart” was written especially for public presentation and provides background information on the Islamic revolution in Iran and elaborates on a number of Baha'i principles.
The 14-member cast is composed of professional actors including some who are Baha
The play will be presented November 10 at the Bosch Baha'i School, November 11 in Sacramento, and November 12 at the Baha'i Center in San Francisco. For information, phone the Los Angeles Baha'i Center, 213933-8291, or the Bosch School, 408423-3387.
About 40 people take part in intercultural role-playing session sponsored by Baha'is
On August 27 about 40 people, nearly half of whom were not Baha’is, took part in a role-playing simulation of the interaction among various cultures. The exercise was sponsored by the Baha'is of Detroit and Grosse Pointe and conducted by Wayne State University's Community Education Leadership Program.
Among the members of the public attending were a state representative, a Broadway musical star, several physicians (including one who was. visiting from Minneapolis), four Japanese-Americans, the former director of race relations for New Detroit Inc., and one person who was 93 years old.
Also in the group were two new Baha'is, one of whom had declared that same day.
Musical entertainment was provided by Charlotte Easley, a Baha'i who recently moved to the area from Portland, Oregon.
Three-year effort pays off for Walla Walla
Continued from page |
Church, Walla Walla Friends Meetings (Quaker), Temple Beth Israel and such community organizations as Blue Mountain Arts Alliance, the Childrens Home Society of Washington, Walla Walla Community College, and the WWCC Institute for the Healing of Racism.
The July 12 event was supported wholeheartedly by local businesses. Two radio stations—one in English and one in Spanish—broadcast live from the festival. One also sold commercial time related to the event and contributed a part of the revenues, and the other donated proceeds from T-shirts it sold there.
The mayor of Walla Walla presided over the opening ceremonies, declaring that what the community needs is to live the concept “one planet, one people, please.”
Live entertainment included music and cultural dances by Hispanic, American Indian, Irish, German, Middle Eastern and African-American performers, plus story-telling for the children, hands-on projects, and a table of international board games where people could play chess with a master or learn a new game.
International food booths offered taste experiences from Mexican, Italian, Russian, American Indian, German and other cuisines.
Race Unity Day made the front page of the next day’s newspaper with two full-color photographs.
Encouraged by the success of the event, the committee is planning more projects throughout the year to foster interracial and intercultural appreciation and understanding.
Among them are a walking tour of the city’s ethnic history and documentation of the role diverse ethnic groups have played in the history of the area’s agricultural industry.
How did this all come about? The roots go back more than two years and demonstrate how hard work and experience have paid off.
At that time the Baha’is were promoting “The Vision of Race Unity” by offering free copies through radio advertising.
The response initially was a trickle: a call or two a week. Then the Los Angeles riots hit and the phone rang, off the hook all day, all night.
A great many pamphlets were mailed and many inquiries made
Fellowship, program make Long
The program was excellent, the entertainment uplifting.
But the most valuable aspect of the sixth annual Race Unity Day picnic on Long Island, New York, was the fellowship.
People of diverse backgrounds came together during the six-hour picnic to enjoy one another’s company:
Some played games, some went out on rowboats, some went for
about the Faith. Just as important, people were becoming aware of the Baha’i commitment to race unity.
So, with Race Unity Day approaching, the Baha’is decided to celebrate in a small park with live music, free soft drinks, free watermelon and a variety of games.
They invited their friends and Baha’is from neighboring communities, and the event was promoted on radio.
The result was a turnout of between 50 and 80 people. On the surface it seemed successful, but on analysis the Baha’fs realized they had failed to attract the diverse racial and cultural minorities of Walla Walla.
In fact, even though the event was
Nicht Yow Way drummers from the Umatilla Reservation perform for 3,500 people at the Race Unity Day and Multicultural Arts Festival in Walla Walla, Washington.
held in an area of town with a large Hispanic population, the only Hispanics in the park that day played dominoes at a picnic table on the fringe of the event.
The next year, 1993, the Baha’is resolved not to make that mistake again.
They first acted to make race unity a long-term focus. With the help of Walla Walla Community College and Whitman College, Nat Rutstein was brought to town to work with their administrations and student bodies for a week.
The community college established an Institute for the Healing of Racism that continues to meet and progress, and the image of the Faith was enhanced among the leaders of thought and education in Walla Walla.
Next, the Baha'is approached the Spanish-language radio station and asked its help in promoting the second Race Unity Day event. The station responded by making Race Unity Day the biggest event of its
walks, while others simply sat and talked.
A prayer for humankind, followed by a quotation from ‘Abdu’l-Baha on promoting unity and fighting prejudice, started the program.
A member of the Baha’f Race Unity Committee of Long Island then talked about the significance of Race Unity Day and why Baha’is everywhere are working so diligently for unity.
summer promotional schedule. Two English-language stations also signed on with the effort.
For entertainment, Craig Spriggs, a local African-American Baha’{, opened with modern jazz. He was followed by Ballet Infanta Folkloria Del Sol, an Hispanic children’s dance group in full costume, and the musical finale was provided by popular Hispanic vocalist Salvador Hernandez.
So far so good, but the audience of 650 overwhelmed the still-learning, Baha’is. They quickly ran out of pizza and soft drinks, the dancers had to perform on blacktop, and the sound system was woefully inadequate.
There were other problems. As
pointed out by Mr. Hernandez, “This is Race Unity Day. Aside from our friends the Bahd’is, where are the Anglos? This looks like Hispanic Unity Day.”
Clearly, another level of eventplanning experience was needed, and the Baha’fs recognized they didn’t have it. That’s when the Race Unity Committee entered the picture.
The Baha’fs went to Dan Clark, a Quaker active in conflict management who also initiated the annual Cinco de Mayo Festival in a nearby town. With his help, representatives of a number of faiths and organizations met with the Bahd‘fs, and things took off:
- proof of insurance was provided
for use of the city’s Pioneer Park;
- the committee obtained a federal
ID number as a not-for-profit organization and opened a bank account;
- funds generated by advance
payments of booth participants provided sufficient monies to pay for
small print ads in the local newspaper and a larger display ad ina “shopper”;
¢ hold-harmless forms were signed for booth participants and food handler permits for vendors;
¢ the Spanish-language and English-language radio stations made the event a major promotion and broadcast from the site;
¢ Blue Mountain Cellular joined in the radio promotion and provided free cellular service on-site to organizers;
- posters and direct-mail programs
were designed by Bahd‘i volunteers and printed at no charge by the community college;
¢ the posters were placed in the front window of every retail merchant;
¢ the direct-mail pieces were sent out using lists provided by the college and churches;
¢ churches promoted the event in their bulletins and from the pulpit;
¢ Head Start students at a migrant worker labor camp handmade the flags of the nations that were used to encircle a gazebo in the park directly behind the performers;
- entertainment again was provided
by Craig Spriggs, Ballet Del Sol and Salvador Hernandez, with the addition of American Indian drummers, Irish folk singers, and Irish, German and Middle Eastern dancers;
¢ a pastor known as a story-teller told enchanting tales of American Indian legends between musical acts;
¢ the Blue Mountain Arts Alliance did its hands-on “Art in the Park” program in which children could make all manner of items;
- a top-quality sound system was
provided at no charge by the owner of Blue Mountain Music;
- several food booths did a thriving
business and there were informational booths for several organizations;
- interactive games tables were
arranged; and
- another booth ran continuous
showings of Healing the Heart of America.
In short, the Race Unity Day and Multi-cultural Arts Festival was a hit, and the Race Unity Committee, with all bills paid, has almost $400 in the bank to use for new activities.
It wasn’t perfect. More participation by Asians is needed, for example.
But each year the two small Baha’i communities of Walla Walla County are learning. And they're growing, too, with six declarations in the past year.
Island celebration memorable
Proclamations of Race Unity Day from the two county executives and a town supervisor were read.
The committee also honored a local African-American minister for his fine efforts to promote racial harmony and to fight racism and prejudice on Long Island. He was presented with copies of The Vision of Race Unity statement and the Models of Unity study.
The program ended with a local
Bahd’i singer performing two songs on unity. One was his own composition.
The picnic was well attended. It helped that two days before, a member of the committee had appeared on the local television news to talk about the picnic and about the Baha‘{ Faith. Also, a week earlier, the committee had participated in the annual Black American Parade, and organizers of that event reciprocated.
EXCELLENCE IN Bia (Cte
The 1993 AIDS Awareness stamps, designed by Tom Mann, a Baha'f from Faugier County, Virginia, have won the 24th International Asiago Prize of Philatelic Art, presented in Asiago, Italy, to the stamps judged best of the year among entries from around the world. Mr. Mann's simple and effective design, featuring a symbolic red ribbon, also won the Asiago Trophy and a medal from the president of the Italian republic. The prizes were presented to U.S. Consul-General Richard Schinnick, who had them delivered to the National Postal Museum in Washington, D.C.
Gate Dawn Koc, a Baha'f from Cedar Rapids, lowa, was graduated with honors this year from Coe College. Mrs. Koch, a mother of three, received a B.A. in chemistry and received Coe's Kessler Award as “most outstanding senior in chemistry.” An active member of the Baha'f community, she sings in the local Baha'i choir.
Burt Barer, a member of the Spiritual Assembly of Walla Walla, Washington, was honored April 27 in New York City at the 48th annual Edgar Allan Poe awards ceremony conducted by the Mystery Writers of America with the prestigious “Edgar” award for his critical/biographical book, The Saint: A Complete History. Mr. Barer has been nominated by the World Mystery Convention for the international “Anthony Award.”
Evnam Simmons, a 12-year-old Baha'f who is a straight-A sixth grade student in Spokane Valley, Washington, was the statewide grand prize winner in a poster contest sponsored by Tobacco Free Washington. Elham's poster included the words “Tobacco Free Is Healthy” in large bubble letters with pictures of activities (swimming, tennis, baseball, reading, fishing, etc.) that one can do instead of smoking. Her prize for winning was an all-expenses-paid trip to Disneyland.
Samat Souras, a Baha'{ who is a 1994-95 senior at St. Francis High School in La Canada-Flintridge, California, has become the first junior in the school's history to pass the BC (second year) Advanced Placement exam in calculus. In 1993, he was the first sophomore ever to pass the AB (first year) calculus exam. Samah, who is taking second-year college courses in differential equations and linear algebra while completing his senior year in high school, was recently inducted into the National Honor Society.
Susan Lewis Wrict, a Baha'{ performer/songwriter from Denver, Colorado, has followed her successful compact disc of last year, “Down in Mexico,” with the release by Gizmo Productions of a cassette tape, “Calling All Colors,” which includes a vocal rendition of the song on one side and an instrumental version on the other. The song, which celebrates the diversity of the human family, was inspired by the “Calling All Colors” children’s conference in Conway, South Carolina.
In April, J. Rock Jounson, a Baha'i from Lincoln, Nebraska, was named president of the NAMI Consumer Council, the national consumer arm of the National Association for the Mentally Ill. In 1993 Ms. Johnson was elected to a three-year term on the NAMI board of directors, the first person to have experienced a severe mental illness ever elected by the entire membership.
For the past 10 years Bos Atmony, a Baha'f from Columbia, Missouri, has donated Baha'{ books to the University of Missouri's Ellis Library, with the total donated to date numbering around 100. Since the books are placed in a research section, they will not be discarded or destroyed in future years.
Anton Ware, a Baha'i from Chicago, was graduated one year early this year from Whitney Young High School where he carried a 4.3 gradepoint average, was a member of the National Honor Society and was a 1994-95 Illinois State Scholar based on his Achievement Test scores and school activities. While at Whitney Young, Mr. Ware was a member (four years) and saxophone section leader of the All-City High School Concert Band, editorial page editor of the school paper, and a member of the Human Relations Group. He has been accepted at the University of Chicago where he intends to major in Asian Studies after completing, a year of service with the Baha'i Youth Service Corps.
Gerren ALLEN, an 18-year-old Baha'i from Montpelier, Vermont, was recognized this year by the Community Based Learning Program at Montpelier High School for his outstanding volunteer service in the computer laboratory. He also received the “Silver M” award for academic achievement and scholarships from the Elizabeth Jackson Memorial Scholarship Fund, the Vermont Association of Broadcasters, Union Mutual Fire Insurance Co., and American Legion Post No. 3.
Three students at the Badi’ Baha'f School in Marietta, Georgia—RamBop CxarePoo (violin), Siva Eaurart (mathematics) and Casper Vooct (German)—were chosen for this year's Governor's Honors Program, an intensive six-week summer course at Valdosta State University. About 660 students from throughout the state took part in the program.
18
ii
Six states and four countries were represented July 20-24 at the 10th annual Heartland Baha'i Summer School at Knox College and Galesburg, Illinois, whose theme was ‘Achieving Our Destiny through Love, Unity, Sacrifice and Service.’ Among the teachers were Auxiliary Board members Javidukht Khadem and Curtis Russell and Knight of Baha'u'llah Gayle Woolson. A highlight was ‘American Baha’is in the Heartland,’ an historical exhibit developed by Aden Lauchner (pictured) of Springfield. The exhibit included photographs, documents and other materials in four general areas: ‘The Mother Temple of the Baha'i World,’ ‘Early Baha'i Communities in Illinois,’ ‘Early Literature and Books Before 1963,’ and ‘The History of Heartland Baha‘ School.’ Another highlight was the 10th anniversary celebration that included trivia questions about the school, awards, a slide presentation, refreshments, and Peruvian folk music by El Viento Canta.
34 Baha'is teach in E. Europe's ‘Call of the Hands’ campaign
Thirty-four Baha'is from Canada, England, Israel and the U.S. spent eight weeks this summer teaching in Siberia, Ukraine and Moldova during the “Call of the Hands” teaching campaign.
They conducted four forums on Family, Education and Environment in the Siberian cities of Irkutsk, Angarsk, Severobailkalsk and UlanUde, each of which received much interest from the scientific and educational communities as well as from the media.
The mayors of two small, remote villages along the Siberian railway, Kirenga and Kazachinskoy, pleaded with the Baha'is to send long-term teaching teams so their people could learn more about the Faith.
A large supply of literature was left with the mayor of Kirenga who promised to distribute it to her people. She also arranged for a television interview that was broadcast a few days after the group's departure.
Teaching teams made up of youth from Ulan-Ude and project members stayed for a week in the villages of Kyata—on the Mongolian border— and Gusinyarsk and Zachaminsk, well south of Ulan-Ude.
During the second four weeks the teams spent time in Odessa, Berdyansk, Chernovtsy, Ternopol and Kiev in Ukraine and Kishinev, Beltsy, Kamrat and Tiraspol, Moldova.
In Berdyansk, on the Assov Sea, there were 10 declarations and many more seekers by the time of the
group's departure.
An Army colonel who serves on the Ukrainian Nuclear Disarmament Team vowed to return to his base in western Ukraine and spread the teachings of Baha'u'llah.
The various teams met after the campaign at a rustic university camp near Kiev to share news of their victories before departing for home.
One returning group met with Baha'is in Helsinki, Finland, while another had a stopover for prayers at the House of Worship near Frankfurt, Germany.
HUQdQU'LLAH
Payments for Huqdqu'llah should be made to “The Baha'i Huqtqu'll4h Trust” and sent to one of the Trustees:
¢ Dr. Elsie Austin, 9039 Sligo Creek Parkway, Unit 612, Silver Spring, MD 20901 (phone 301-589-8481).
© Dr. Amin Banani,
Santa Monica, CA 90402 (phone 310-394-5449). ¢ Dr. Daryush Haghighi, Rock River, OH 44116 (phone 216333-1506).
Inquiries regarding Huqtqu'llah should be referred to one of the Trustees or to the Office of the Secretariat, Baha'i Huqdqu'llah Trust,
Rocky River, OH 44116.
19
151 / October 16, 1994
As exemplified by young Baha'i martyrs in Iran
By Dr. Mahyar Mofidi
“Undoubtedly,” the Universal House of Justice has written to Baha'f youth, “it is within your powers to contribute significantly to shaping the societies of the coming century; youth can move the world.”
This summer, the “Army of Light: American Routes '94,” a major national teaching campaign, engaged large numbers of young Baha'is in the most noble field of teaching (see pp. 911).
An indispensable force for today's youth in becoming a magnet and setting hearts afire is the degree to which they recognize and appreciate the spiritual heritage bequeathed to them by their brethren of past and recent generations.
Throughout the history of the Faith, many youth have voluntarily offered their lives for the emancipation and proclamation of the Cause. Indeed, in the Cradle of the Faith, the crimson color has become the ultimate litmus test wherewith faith is measured.
Not surprisingly, Baha'i youth, in many instances, have been the torch-bearers, the trailblazers offering their lives, and in so doing have further consolidated the glorious march of the Faith in the path of victory.
During the Heroic Age, the Bab, at the tender age of 25, declared His mission to Mulla Husayn, himself only a few years older than the Bab. Quddus, the last of the Letters of the Living, was but 22 when he confirmed his faith in the Bab.
Badi’, the Pride of Martyrs, was barely 18 when he courageously gave his life for Baha'u'll4h. Mirza Mihdi, the Purest Branch, sacrificed his life at age 22 so that the gates of the Most Great Prison would be opened, enabling the believers to pay due homage to their Beloved.
During the past 15 years, the Baha'i community in Iran has seen a renewal of past discrimination. Many young people have been deprived of their basic human rights. They are denied access to higher education. Every day brings a fresh ordeal and a new struggle.
The House of Justice, in praising the endurance and referring to the sacrifices of youth in Iran, says, “No splendor of speech could give more fitting testimony to their spiritual commitment and fidelity than those pure acts of selflessness and devotion. In virtually no other place on earth is so great a price for faith required of Baha'is. Nor could there be found
Youth should recognize, appreciate spiritual heritage
more willing, more radiant bearers of the cup of sacrifice than the valiant Baha'f youth of Iran.”
As young Bahda’is in this country, united in their purpose, travel to many cities and states to proclaim their Faith, let them remember with due solemnity what transpired only 11 summers ago, on June 18, 1983.
In late afternoon, in the city of Shiraz, where the call for the advent of a new Day had first been raised, 10 Baha'i women, six of whom were between
Throughout the history of the Faith, many youth have voluntarily offered their lives for the emancipation and proclamation of the Cause. Indeed, in the Cradle of the Faith, the crimson color has become the ultimate litmus test wherewith faith is measured.
the ages of 18-25, dramatically and willingly offered their lives for Baha'u'llah.
Let those in the “Army of Light” recall, while displaying their talents before large audiences, the heroic circumstances attending the plight of those 10 women of Shiraz who chanted their way to the field of martyrdom. Many attempts were made by their executioners to coerce recantation, but to no avail. In the end, these women preferred to die in glory.
In doing so, they followed in the footsteps of their Spiritual sister, Tahirih, the greatest woman in the Babi Dispensation.
In their midst was Shirin, whose name means sweetness. She was only moments away from her release, but martrydom was to be her fate; her grandmother, carrying the necessary documents for her release, arrived at the prison a few moments too late. The deadline, which was never clear from the beginning, had passed, and there was no way the authorities would allow a Bahd'f to break the law.
When Shirin found out what had happened, she consoled her cellmates who were grief-stricken for her. Such was her magnanimity that she was saddened by the thought of her grandmother not forgiving herself for having arrived late.
This was Shirin Dalvand whose heart was unspeakably great and pure. “Sweetness” submitted her will to Baha'u'llah and triumphantly walked to the rope that would provide her with the ultimate liberation.
There were Roya and Zarrin, ages 22 and 28, respectively. Both were excellent students, on their way to living successful and prosperous lives. But that changed dramatically as Roya, along with her parents, was mercilessly executed. The executioner made her watch as her mother was hanged, but she
was not to be deterred.
Zarrin, known for her simple and unadorned lifestyle, displayed her impressive strength of character as she listened to the cleric who vowed to tear Baha'u'llah from her chest. In response, she exclaimed, “Then my heart will call out and say, ‘Baha’u'lléh, Baha'u'llah!”
And there was Mona, already having been forced to witness the executions of her cellmates, nine in all. She was to be the last. Mona was already fatherless; he had been martyred only a few days before. She knew they would try to take advantage of her youthful innocence, but on that day she had put aside her innocence.
Mona Mahmudnejad, barely 18, strode majestically to the gallows and kissed the rope that was to release her soul from the cage of this earthly life.
The youth in America may not share the same dramatic experiences or have similar destinies; they have their own glorious destiny. The young martyrs of Iran have proven themselves as champions of Baha'u'llah's Cause. When faced with the onrushing winds of des-tiny, they have demonstrated their steadfastness and perseverance.
Now the Baha't youth of Iran, with their hands tied and lips sealed, look expectantly toward the youth of this continent for the proper vindication of their sacrifice.
It would be beneficial for our young people, especially those taking part in the “Army of Light,” to read the sobering accounts of the young martyrs. What was the transforming power that created out of these otherwise ordinary young people such spiritual giants?
The beloved Guardian exhorts us, especially the youth, to familiarize ourselves more fully with the history of our Faith. Why is this? Perhaps it is through such an endeavor that we can fall passionately in love with the heroes and heroines of God's Cause. As we read of their sacrifices and reflect on what prompted them to make such heroic decisions, we can become inspired and enkindled.
It is through such inspiration that we may begin to glimpse and appreciate the unshakeable faith that animated these young people as they were called upon to sacrifice their lives in its path. And as we become imbued with that creative and transforming power, we can then effectively “contribute significantly to shaping the societies of the coming century” and “move the world.”
150 pay tribute to Dizzy About 150 people, 20 of whom
Shelburne Falls ‘whirlwind’ sees four declarations
were Baha'is, attended a “Tribute to Dizzy Gillespie” held April 17 at the State University of New York at Geneseo.
The event was co-sponsored by the Department of Music, Baha'f Unity Club and Black Student Union at SUNY-Geneseo. Featured was music by the 17-member Geneseo Jazz Ensemble; multicultural performances of songs, dances and stories by a number of minority groups at the school; and presentations by Baha'is including the prayer for America set to music.
An article about the event was published in the local newspaper.
A whirlwind of Baha’{ activity that had been building in Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts, culminated July 9 in a spiritual celebration on the anniversary of the Martyrdom of the Bab.
In recent months, four people have declared their belief in Baha’u’lléh as a result of extensive teaching efforts while another has confided her intention to become a Baha'i.
The July 9 observance included the thrilling account of the Bab’s life and martyrdom. Music, dance and food were offered for enjoyment by the 10 seekers and 19 believers present.
Bahd’fs came from four states to help out. Two of the friends, Ray
Estes and Sherlock Graham-Haynes, arrived from North Carolina and immediately launched into a round of teaching, music and discussion.
Every age group was represented at the observance: infants, children, pre-youth, youth and adults. Among, the six youth were four seekers.
The atmosphere of celebration rose as 25 people joined in a unity dance and song composed by Marty Quinn and Leona Hosack. As they danced ina circle, chanting repeatedly the words of ‘Abdu’l-Baha, each and every face was illumined by the light of radiance, joy and upliftment.
So high was the spirit that two
times the Baha’fs tried to close the meeting and were unable to. People refused to move. They sat mesmerized, waiting for more—and were given it, with Baha’fs drawing them in to more questions and discussion.
All the seekers, especially the youth, expressed again and again their joy and gratitude, as well as their anticipation of taking part in more Baha’{ activities.
Several of the youth were attracted to the Faith by Damian Odess-Gillett, a Shelburne seeker and youth who had arisen the day before to join the Army of Light in North Carolina. °
Each spring, thousands of American Baha'is circle an important date on
their calendar: the start of summer school, that time of learning,
meeting, reacquainting, and just plain fun they won't miss for anything.
This year was no exception, as bursting crowds at many of the 23
regional and three permanent schools can attest. One of those is the
550 children, youth and adults to a mountain-top conference center to study “The Destiny of America.” We hope these photos taken there reflect the flavor of Baha’i summer schools everywhere. Enjoy.
Inspiration
Generations
—— So ET ee a
soe ekg
PE
Heading home
[Page 21]
Education
A hero of the Cause
»
d
Abir Majid introduces-his father, Siddiq Sulayman, who spent six years in an Iraqi prison for his faith: Mr. Sulayman spoke to the audience and later chanted a prayer in Arabic.
Joyful noise
‘ILm 8.€. 151 / October 16, 1994 21
Meditation
Institute attendees look over items donated for a silent auction. Pledges totaled $24,780, of which one unit of $9,000 was sent to the Arc Fund. A last-minute rock sale by three 4-year-olds (Alexandria Karamallis, Shirin Ahlhauser and Mona Akhauan) netted $52.
Jazzed up
Masuiyyat 8.€. 151 / SeptemBer 27, 1994 22
‘i ape ,
The fourth annual meeting to honor persecuted Baha'is and other minorities around the world was held June 25 at Collin County Community College in Plano, Texas.
More than 60 Baha'is and their guests took part in the event, whose focus this year was on the rights of women. The program included music, prayers and presentations by members of the Plano Community Forum, the Plano Religious Community Exchange Program, and the
Baha'i community.
society.
The Baha'f speaker was Mary K. Radpour, Auxiliary Board member for the southern states, who emphasized the need for a new social order based on Baha'i principles to overcome the moral degradation of American
Louis Robinson, president of the Plano Community Forum, represented that group, while Anita Strand, coordinator of the Plano Religious Community Exchange, spoke on its behalf.
More than 60 Baha'is attend fourth annual meeting in Plano, Texas, to honor persecuted minority groups
Auxiliary Board member Mary K. Radpour (at podium) addresses the fourth annual memorial meeting to honor persecuted Baha'is and other minorities, which was held June 25 in Plano, Texas. Also pictured (left to right) are master of ceremonies Payam Maveddat; Anita Strand, coordinator of the Plano Religious Community Exchange; and Louis Robinson, president of the Plano Community Forum.
12-year-old Baha'i stands up for Faith in class, draws teachers’ interest
When Mona Parsa, a 12-year-old Baha'i from Aliso Viejo, California, was asked to stand with other students in her sixth-grade class and mention 10 unique qualities about themselves, her first response was, “I am a Baha'i.”
Already attracted by Mona's exemplary behavior, her teacher asked her after school to tell her more about the Faith. Mona offered to bring some literature to school, and the next week invited the teacher to her family's home for a fireside.
Mona's homeroom teacher also expressed an interest in the Faith when she saw Mona wearing a “One Planet, One People...Please” T-shirt.
Mona and her family are planning monthly dinner firesides for
her teachers and fellow students.
Spirit of peace, unity pervades Flagstaff's World Unity Festival
A Baha'i spirit of peace and unity was evident among the more than 5,000 people from 36 countries who took part August 27-30 in the World Unity Festival in Flagstaff, Arizona.
Acentrally located “peace tree” had a nine-pointed star at the top, and all other symbols from any walk of life were honored on the tree.
At the sacred pipe ceremony, conducted by an American Indian medicine man, the “talking prayer” was followed by a prayer revealed by Baha'u'llah and recited by the host.
Media representatives from many countries were present, and the one piece of television footage that received national coverage in the U.S. was the moment at which Baha'u'llah's Name was mentioned in the universal prayer for peace.
News in brief
Eco-Ag Service links young Baha'i volunteers with farms
Eco-Ag Service, a regional pilot program in Virginia and North and South Carolina which works in cooperation with the North American Agricultural Seminar of the Association for Baha'i Studies, has linked three Baha'i youth volunteers with farms that seek to grow food in ways that sustain the natural resource base.
Beside matching apprentices with farms that need extra labor in exchange for imparting the knowledge, skills and techniques necessary to operate an ecologically oriented farm, Eco-Ag promotes the study and discussion of Baha'i writings on agriculture.
For information about Eco-Ag, contact John Bradley,
Mt. Airy, NC 27030 (phone 910-789-3930 evenings or weekends), or the ABS Agricultural Committee, Route 3, Box 51-D,
10th annual Martin Luther King Jr. National Holiday Parade and March of Celebration Atlanta, Georgia
Once again, the Bahd'is of Atlanta will be taking part in the many events of King Week. Please join us to proclaim the glorious Name of Baha'u'llah to those in Atlanta and around the world.
Parade: Saturday, January 14. There will be a Baha'i float; TBS will
telecast nationally and worldwide.
Multicultural prayers around the world: Sunday, January 15. Planned by the Baha'is and held in Freedom Hall at the King Center to commemorate World Religion Day.
March of celebration: Monday, January 16. Robert C. Henderson, secretary-general of the National Spiritual Assembly, will be one of the co-Grand Marshals, and we will march with hundreds of fellow Baha'is to demonstrate on a massive scale our commitment to the
oneness of humanity.
The Baha'is of Atlanta are planning many other teaching and proclamation events in mid-January. For more information, please
write to Paulette Trail, _ 30073, or phone 404-428-7713.
Powder Springs, GA
Floyd, VA 24091 (phone 703-7452918).
‘Junior Kids Assembly’ formed
Five young Bahd’is in the Paradise Valley, Arizona, area organized themselves this summer into a group they chose to call the Junior Kids Baha’i Assembly.
They attended weekly classes on writing the Persian language—they all speak it fluently—taught by one of the mothers.
The Junior Kids elected a treasurer, made and decorated a Fund box, and raised $166 for the Arc Projects Fund by selling herbs from a garden.
Included with their Arc contribution to the Universal House of Justice was a three-line letter that concluded, “We are praying that the Arc will be built earlier.”
Members of the group presented an enthusiastic report of their activi ties, interests and hopes at a recent Feast in Paradise Valley. The Spiritual Assembly and community look forward to hearing other reports from such dedicated young Baha’is upon whom the future depends.
Penguin to handle Oneworld
Oneworld Publications of Great Britain has announced that, beginning next January, the well-known publisher Penguin Books will handle distribution of Oneworld's books in the U.S. and Canada.
In June, Penguin began distributing Oneworld in Britain, Europe, Asia, Africa and South America.
Oneworld was established to carry a wide range of Baha'i and Baha'irelated titles to the book trade, and it is hoped that the arrangement with Penguin will greatly increase the availability of Baha'i books to the general public.
Baha'is from Yuma City and Yuma County, Arizona, marched behind this banner
in the recent Wellton Day parade in Wellton, Arizona. The parade wound for two miles through the desert town, and the Baha'i entry was well-received.
[Page 23]
Letters
Sister’s teaching wishes are fulfilled in death
To the Editor:
On August 14, I paid the greatest ransom I have been asked to give for this Cause. Late at night, alone except for her Lord, and unable to continue her 20-year struggle with severe chronic clinical depression, my 35-year-old “baby sister,” Lu Ann, took a bottle of pills and laid her life before her Creator.
When they found her, much later, finally at rest, she had five items clutched lovingly to her chest—four books: Baha'i World Faith, Prayers and Meditations, Daily Readings, and Tablets of the Divine Plan—and a branch of white tea roses from the bouquet I had given her the day before. How her eyes had sparkled when I told her that, according to story, Baha'u'llah's favorite flower was the white rose.
Please remind the friends about need for a will
To the Editor:
Recently, a Baha'i in Salinas, California, passed away suddenly without a known will, relatives who could be found, or any assets with which to pay for his funeral.
In such cases in Monterey County, the deceased becomes a ward of the state and his remains are cremated.
.. | would suggest that the local Assembly remind the friends of the Baha’i law regarding wills and keep a file containing copies of community members’ wills and the names and telephone numbers of relatives and/or friends.
Realizing that cremation is against Baha'i law, the Spiritual Assembly of Salinas took immediate action. Because of the Assembly's persistence and the cooperation of many government officials, a way was found to have this Baha'i buried in a long-forgotten county cemetery. While arranging this, Assembly members had an opportunity to tell government officials about the Faith. In many communities there are Baha'is who are not well known. Besides redoubling our efforts to get to know them, I would suggest that the local Assembly remind the friends of the Bah'f law regarding wills and keep a file containing copies of community members’ wills and the names and telephone numbers of relatives and/or friends. Such information would have allowed the Assembly in Salinas to advise this Baha’j's relatives of his passing. Richard Martin Prunedale, California
Ours is a small community—the two of us and our five lovely children. But this didn't stop us!
In recent weeks we had finalized our three-month calendar and longer-range teaching plans. She had bought 15 copies of I Shall Come Again and was eager to use them for a long-planned teaching event. Only a week before her death we had decided that our town would, God willing, have an Assembly by Ridvan. Lu Ann was born on April 21.
Her greatest frustration in recent weeks was her inability to get out of the house more to teach. Then, one day about three weeks ago, she called me and, in a childlike voice, said, “Listen, Jan!” She played her new phone answering machine message that ended with the words
‘ILm B.€. 151 / Octoser 16, 1994
“..and next time you see me, ask me about Baha'u'llah.” God had given her the means!
The copies of the book are gone. I'll have to order more for our teaching event, because Lu Ann and I have just completed the most incredible teaching “marathon” anyone could imagine.
I was at a professional conference when my husband came with news of her death. My first act was to ask my colleagues if we could share a prayer for the departed.
Since then, for the past six days, I have spent at least 10 hours a day teaching the Faith.
At the prayer service preceding her burial I was able to tell nearly 200 friends, acquaintances and family members what she could not...that Christ has returned in the glory of
ete) Ee
est. The purpose of the “letters” column
is to allow a free and open exchange of ideas
and opinions, never to denigrate another's
views or to attack anyone personally.
Opinions expressed in these columns are
those of the writers, and are not necessarily
those of the National Spiritual Assembly
or the editors.
Letters should be as brief as possible (a 250-word maximum is suggested) and are subject to editing for length and style. Please address all letters to The Editor, The American Baha'i, Baha'i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.
“The shining spark of truth cometh forth only after the clash of differing opinions.”
—Abdu’l-Baha
The American Baha'i welcomes letters to the editor on any topic of general inter
Evils of gossip driven home anew
by incident at summer school
To the Editor:
Our Assembly is presently dealing with a problem of a personal and private nature.
It was decided by the parties involved to tell a few close friends who are not on the Assembly the nature of the problem.
Unfortunately, the topic became a subject of gossip at a recent summer school.
Can you imagine how the people involved must feel? What should have been a source of support— fellowship with the Baha'is—has
been taken away at a time when support is most needed.
One only need consult the Writings to see how serious gossip is. To have it take place at a Baha'i summer school is even worse.
Please, friends, in future, when told something in confidence, keep it to yourself, and when confronted by gossip and rumor, tell the source you are not interested. Feelings are hurt and the Faith is severely tested when you do not.
Karen M. Gray Belleville, Illinois
oye fis
the Father...that we have the bounty to live and serve in the “Day of God.”
It has been a week of miracles. As my heart aches, I am bathed in the confirmations of the Blessed Beauty. My joy holds no bounds as the material rewards of this test have been as great as the spiritual. A great family healing has taken place, giving me the emotional support in death that she so longed to give me in life.
I shall be on my knees each morning to thank Lu Ann for her final message—the books. Could it be that the message was not just for me?
“Behold the candle, how it gives its light! It weeps away its life drop by drop to give its flame.”
Jan (Travis) Thompson Foley, Minnesota
LA Workshop performance sparks inquiries
To the Editor:
The Los Angeles Baha'i Youth Workshop performed July 8 at my child's elementary school (Argonne Alternative School). I am continuing to hear from the parents and teachers at the school about what a thrilling experience it was for them.
The principal and teachers say that what impressed them most was the outstanding character every one of the Workshop members displayed.
They remarked about their courtesy and positive exuberance.
The principal said, “Robert, I had no idea you were a Baha'i. How interesting!”
A parent said, “I have a good friend who became a Baha'i. The Baha'i Faith mellowed her out.”
The principal wants to know if we can make this an annual event.
Robert Berrry San Francisco, California
We must tell all about God’s plan
To the Editor:
“If we could know that God truly cares for all people and has a very specific plan for world reconciliation in which we have a key role, how could we possibly advocate that everyone mind their own spiritual business? Wouldn't it be logical for us to reach out?”
The above quotation, addressed to Jews, appeared in the Messianic Jewish publication, Issues. How much more does this appeal apply to Baha'is who know in detail God's Plan for recreating humankind and establishing lasting peace and harmony in the world.
fs Seymour Weinberg Denver, Colorado
dol ey ay WS sed OG eS tare ce hag Ie OA 5 AEF Gpope “Ul ge orel ge 3 AG! Glare OLE 4 gli! Claro, GLE 4» cael gyal Gals 9 gery Oper dase cil pL de al bE Oper yrds prin Sle GS vila 15 eleted ope g Ge b HLS
Je dl BB Ope eye Whe » » 9 opens y clele I oly GLY aed sls 9 So 5 Spd loo 5 oT 5 op oblety ANS 5 Sle Cll ope 5 Ss Ly » gee 9 Sls ab 7d Ss aly of yb 6 wild & Neer eb OU! 5 Hays PUI b ae Out Baye Cy69 Chm 5
Obk 4s Gleel 3! GAAS ae we pate 9 AR ayp0 1 lt 4 arth JL! Xs» cyl retsy Colt 5 GILL cols 415 cole De be Bye pelos O55 opaill be AI ol rte Ge IL Gap & Ladin Gyr 4 WS AS le pe cabs OLS 5! a2 tlactls Jlyl prre glia I Se bse oS coe Shit gel eh SF oe tee
(oat 3, 53 sels!)
n SE ed Cl pote pc glings 3I PLS 4 Baha'i Huguquilah Trust 425 49 1) aul Gpi>
sales Jl! al Gye lal 3! Dr. Amin Banani Santa Monica, CA. 90402 Dr. Daryush Haghighi Rocky River, OH. 44116 Dr. Elsie Austin
9039 Sligo Creek Parkway, #612 Silver Spring, MD. 20901
SH Ale Leyte Ged!
BAHA'ICLASSES IN PERSIAN AT BOSCH 3 eub 336 sll
SN pty ys LE Gu inl in ples ly Gas LG ath ly Spam spgte cipl 5 SAE 5 dy Ol> & by Slepoy 5 Gt OG YY i petd Goby 525s galtal a Geese! HIeS25) pees catligy Aceon ys NAAT) ea teertons ApS sald
VV aptlge pas jl dupe 52 pam TL 5 te jy Ere i! aby SLT 4 pols sayy Ald polar YO gb
orl 99 ES5 4b aby ul olppe prae Crd 5 AB pS ge Oyes Sleyles sn by pA be oat 2b 9d aper IK! pus pl 52 Add gels
Pty EWS CF sly 55 pe glans Als Jol nls ty Sly byes (F-A)FYY-YPAY 35465 LS
SY jg 3be ast ve
cel Sya>
sWiagad dre dleny cleat 5! SS 5! Ge b SD
oly Glbtee GLE abl Hl OLS 9! 5 daly VA blo oF one S Hb «WS sre Ges » LOL YW Legere aS Cul OL NVA oly, Ege ndaySt SUG. Uae N59) Ceulsm gh ceeall cornea) ual! Cs ola f > feats
4nd 4540 Via, -4
she We ey 4 Ly lee ebele GI de dl tb CO pa> Sle pare & yd LY Agdd dee UL Giles 32 oF Cth Qa ls Se dsl thE yypb Cole OlsI j2 WS ma S SL aslel jglte Cure UAbG gal, 5 Jal ges 5 WE Cul
OLS AE LoL Laue UL Gl Gee 59 BE Appl SUS 51 Slee spgh Jy! JLo 32 32 af sewed od Cd 0d F
aNde E538 45,0 Uluy -h
IG ve pie al 39 0S SLL eye & vax VY cary Sod Slee hay ool days ant Fopt oe Eat Soleo oly ool Gy Cul
ole 5298 AH gma cpa Mt ait pray” Yt Gf em 9 plSOY go Lay dra Ld will "498 ygo Wi vod
oat IE re obj 4 af aSjle UL ol 4S loj 52 lbh fo dll ly Opa> toyed cae he pee Jj 32 BLAS Se oy! dh pam Be ha ay stl Gets olgiel dee Ll eS Jiro ub obj & ol»
ks tee OL VY Sols taper GLE oA! fad IT De ISI De Cl pic dele & Soler I sel IS arb (eh) ope coker lay! dant Cade & Loyad 5 Ll dd Col wala
lsh Ui yar do So Gladgi
De de Gl db® Ope Ile O55 AS peels ge SEI drag Epes 5 saate slaw Slee yop fils! gles 42 hel den! je sei! JSe Gh SLL pie Glo We 5 ytd ble aber ot 5! lone ly lan Se denis Olr3,5 alu d GS silat abe Lee tee OT ole
dare de GT Ole UE py af J pbine 22 2 WLS de dy! dbo Oper Al F wl ilo, seats onge ay Ly GLAS Sue plod Con ole of OLS by SF pSo GLASS gl olds > ae SN ete ple pple re, F JL! del Le ole 4 6S ship & Gip Cty sper igd B22} Ibu! aes w aS sy GES
dial teas yaot 45,60 360 WRITINGS OF THE BAB Shy Kal p79 agi (Jed tylad Gf aalal) dal Silad Sito Ty —" G plas gly 32 4S oS! ol C35 ol BN Carre Gl key petye yt yo Col Kai oles seul jlnt glinjge ILS SF rae S Jib Se jin TH oat 39 AoW 253 Jo Jy! abt Opa cbt G tryed pol jet gS Clrel & Se Ob! ay 1, “dh daly ye dome ud We Gf veil” ply TS oy ede or ol OE Gt Ole sCatls poled LIS Gatien Glo We w jlat 59 L de yl ALE Slee glad Gab Gale UL GLe Silo pl WIKET y We pre oy 2 ied yo De 5! Ae Le b> 5 2523 PU! 92 ppc wb OS lol & Ly ofl seme WS CYL 42 plus)! vasa pleut ay vargas lal SHI G3 tlae wf plese 5 lope ojario nt Uy ol jl 9 8 oblbe WSs HOS 4 JUL ub CH 5 eS pe SI de ey Ge Gale Daly Audie Le Se Slayers gal 2 aS BSS slo olb eal aS bed 9 Od Gy ES 49 woyl th iy 450 Vin, -¥ 3 Chol St Col slat pare ape OLS 92! UE Glee! i! glue Gly jl af ale ol3,s ee ks lt wy 2 She B35 5 oS ANS gad oles god OLT god SL ae god ew OWS gad 5 pai od Cy UL :loaye5 pe SLa ole LS gre 52 5 ray Se de 2 ot Lup alt sical aad ag lSlogh Ly oF dae Ol ene 49 Gu GL! ole WB 52 Slee Cult pL SUI 52 4 VV JL 52 Wl acwls Gee 4 psy Jolt os ols wy le UL, ARES SE ey Obs Cul glhoge 4 Glrol wcual tll pol Glan glbnc 5 Gl,6 lee sare arth 0 Slt 4 phe Ole ape pie gl D> LL 5 0ayaF sop 4 pte glee Oper UG De de placl pul 5 pad Jr ugh 4 roly agltl 55 Aad Carlet oles Sap 4 5 ane JE AS Ale ge lates GLE gn! 52 SUS! Sho see eam 39) ne Gap dightd"” Jo 5 "009090 oe
+35! 0a 505
plow WES -A 53 Lb lee OLS 6 oS dee Gis git Up iallle 49 2 ASeAtcal sj passe cole aul gyapitle FLW 53 Ly cpll laud teal PWV 5 ota S Ly Audio a laul cul y Airped gly Cul «US ore Pg RAH pede seth are olttle Glrol 4
‘ILM B.€. 151 / Octoser 16, 1994
COS Sypo Jll S Sootls I Sy GN aplasia CHS esha! 9, Gp Sipe es & ajle GEIS LS 4s DEI Cas 5 Wa Sole ot
WS tee pty Se geoatls 3! ay AS gen So pee & LS ale eth fy 5 head gd gh 52 Kipol 22855 Cry olin gay 3 tpt (SLI SEL 5 BLSG GEeL, Copp Gos 52 Gly Lyre So > Ole
CSL! 52 Sly Samford 2ypi0t 52 «Lol 4S s5sls 55 Shsgd AHL» Connecticut ORS BN Se rye SF ay GSe Ghee HON chy cul Syne pal sl Sis
bel 53 BSLS spr Geely one 3 ye GEuLy 5 LIS glel bE at 229 eb gy gt gttliS Gils a
4S sy of 2 ASS DG I Gr » 3 yt By lhe Goal, bus gpl Goub, AT gly GEodld 3! sity be ob ol 5 ak
SN ee ell AS PUI LUG 3! pam 22
ype Lybl 4 by» LS 5 balls » ely &
SS gs
ES 28), Sis lea s6S eS; Le 5 Wel WN whey Glegluls 2515 6 ritls 95 By ge bar Oh} yy agl Ll ALS uly) Large 2 palates! AS oy Gol cath Gt ty 3! ols “aepailysy a Je
SH kaye Olgas GB HIS
CS GIs gl 52 rod ge Lold p53 glings Shey! apts gal | 2b Geld AIS 5 als fylaee gel 5 GS oe! styl
CU! Lob,
ew ie baie Saad Jl ab He ae sb & a ly BHD GIL WF ge ET MIL WS Spel 4» OW Jolt} sd pisie unio \VD- 53
IW ly pIbIS GYs V+ ab pp cas deals IL GI EG oly pl Yo Ve Whe GL Se ype w& 6S col JLyl dap apt led 3 Gol pel & SL
(hee Oper they ae’ OLS La! ae & coy oat OLE aS “of Galle 5 LI arto Fes 53 5 ab pad Gb wy tl os Ye of abe pp cad cl ota, FS pte seme! SIS!
SELES 2 Gly IS obk rays deb plo 25 BLS |b 1, Sde
Kamran Nejati
Brampton, ON. L6S 3H9 CANADA
sill 299 4d A 39 lo pol 30 BAHA'I FAITH INTRODUCED IN A RELIGIOUS PUBLICATION IN GERMANY
ie gl dey Ge LT Glacbacia 59 ley el Cd 92 GIs (NAAT Le TN ASloy jypel daole » ot GSO p> 5 te sll ad 2b ole & tle ol te A AS 7 le She AS Col pet MWS aolijy, So ellis Si04,5 (Dr. Susanne Schaup) GLE gljy 252 ple cul poles che 5 ess alae aly ble & bye Slepegs 32 GL bold 5 Gris Me BIS 39 AS Col one Gime 5 Slate Ueb cin SG (Deutsches Allgemeines Sonntagsblatt) 2 «2,13 Cuby02 ete By oT 1
le 5 Syl OLLy JE 5! Sz Se le Ly “Cal pls Bg chy B ple’ ole ens OLS pede lel slo! sbT 53 4 hee col ee og ERY p> Gly WG te 5! Se Ke ls KA! cgetlew pel 52 CIE pac alee 5! ole pla 4 obT Suns 5 dnsle pyet & obT gbLs| ee 92 eo IT es LB 5 MU pe Glad 1 SY 5g Gar bla! hey 2» Slr! lol 92 Dbl B28 OS pepad 52 alg! ye Ble pro Spre j! lhe gly djlay ie Ge Le guar WS ly Bes gy acKt cans cand aby goes -— aS LES ance fle glass buys uf - alee pl ee ete HG Lis apt 2 hl fb CEE oil yoy Ole TL Hily oy 3! oly I cxney Bs Gl ily Cole AF vayes led 5 Col arith Hts Cores argh Ay! abe G lab scent QSly py2 ple 52 5 Crm 5 ae SxXSlz
bjt I ighsl bel oon SS itll tes OY 6) Ss tre dle a dpel 4 Se ol 32 3p Jey Gr Giles dpe Cpe gle 4 Bw ple OAS 42 Sry Jol ctl le Geb HE 2 Qshel 4 tle el sylol pls eget cel oat aL! So 5! cll 5 CRBS Grd cos 5 ple Giles Ls} less eels 59 Sly dele Jd AE 5 22S ly HE ayy YE 205 5 GL Speo Jeol Gale, ole}
293 892 Sie Cape YS Cre She orld ayes & obol der oeS GAS Cul Atias stingy)
5 by eee Cree ply OL ere ot lls AL Sad ajle 5 wile ob & riyle 3 ANd 2 Cee 5 gp plae Le sam yo 1 obily J! beret ph hy ALS ge stp tat g ole Ue OS poe ce OL cll she Sle, cole 32 es
Ly jarel shoe yo ahole Sy ty 5 Ged BLU ober oF lalb 42 Mth ly Ope sph rin 3g / J 4S Glare Spar Ile ObLy jl SY & Glee iol 39 6 Uh ee Great GRO H GLY soy als Gis Geleorl BE sll 4 26 Suh she | ob 5 ob5 Gre 32 lw
cul 9S S39 lal 5! le
“edad Giro glrume 39,5 51 5nd)
at
SR carer 5 hes fils Jus! gla 52 dolby Veo St Ae lS eds Oba 5 tly Ve G 5a) So gt eaeby gal .tday orls 1 dese Cul odmoled! Job a, aria
3) ae shel ob 32 G5 ele LI tile cel A caste apes “Us ole” Glan, 5} AU syle by 59 5 Obs & AUT pte 5! tl veel WT shel ly Glbsla a ater pre
Sox St 32 whey DY 5! Slew 29 OUlse Ls tee ayy LLd CIDE & ee Cb able So & whe 6 a) aes Sle OLT jee slab, 59 srt oly gl ils Bey 1AS sleul
Shyylte aS sasbreel “yy5 ol” Vague le 52 Gg Gla 5 oe gpbe oo sland aS Ad daly Ce ly limes y HWS Baby 42 CLS 5 Cad Gly able 5! Gate Pceafelle |sunicivs
a BAL 4,Si6 Ollie tlie ty Jae! gins 52 4S 55 oSe tye Ge its wah aal> 03,8 $5 59 0 foc
297 Oke ARMY OF LIGHT
Amy of “555 ol’ glee & pack, 13! GSR eat pe 5 ht Ob obley 4 oble Gly Light AS Cl (SLs Cadige i! Gldiged Jluel glial 52 of ett ceo dy oat 52 21s ge
5 Col gs Cd G2 WL Glearb, SI Se tigt oa oT Cad glace & aus sly obhe YG YY 5 Sad 59 tLe PR OLS! 5! ES Sys le lS ya, ole & oul plea “alse gS abl ly oble GL
Ole he cre bas 4 Sle Wiis ol 5! Gas 5 29% 2 SK45 National Youth Task Force he SU abe gle 4 ad 5 apt ale weed Slee ol Garb GI lui! le 4 Coad
BS Sly GALES L glee LAS oA! Sle (guys lL Grand Canyon Baha‘i Conference (yp: Ad sald (S25
Boke 49 eet yy the ObIS ul Cus 2 tle he ele ole 22 Gate wide of sdigls slut “yp ole” Gl edke
yo abl actl JF JLo pls y2 aS Cul pops
weet oral Jac &y po o39 55 GES, Gb
Mey GS We GIS? 9 GIST ob AS arb
wth Sales gles IS Saw & aS cul oat
egbsl ly GeLT s de Geel, wh él
ae Lh Bashy 5 Win 5 29 sald LiLS ,
les 2d ols 2S ald abe .ayl
wales Lb
Clb 4 Wyld otal 6)0;9 jer! PSone Nie 92 YH GEL ole! nage giles Baole yo ote gal jl aS cull of Gf isle ojlast 5 slat Gl clacts .cul 423,5] =o G2 2) 22 rgd Oley de oslo ol AS sly) oll adali,fo scold we ce VAPYY HUVLIs SLI! Cuud 5 Goguad Aelue 5S po seul wpe pe VINO? GUS gl IS clon} Penh SG Oleb 5! clot plo te AC Le AWS Ja S 4S deals 52) asels yo jee Vos GV Gly Cul oe YO) sth gt ey 055] pstteal ay = gap) Clb I Sy» BS Cul eo WO -Jyl 2b AV 5 VO 5 NY Wb 56,3 CL b5 scul e Sos dee
‘TEACHING IN THE REPUBLICS OF FORMER USSR
Ail pile liner 4 SUE! aly ole oe wh 92 aS wslastl JLy! wlaab li! Fog Yall cols sly Spl ts de sre Cte
BI Alt gal 5 oly ably ylol! ND gels jh ate ILI SLE Spal gue lee| ay aS ole dun ro 43 AF GYy> 10 G AF Ll een dette glue S 5 glubyil 52 ape! ols iy OUT Cleglas 235 5 abl Grd 4 Sh ly erineh gleasler y pals Geol WSyle pol dy i OY Gras thy 5 rd Syl) lane pedtle jlartal a Cul rape) ald 1) bad oljT Slee 59 thy ge pe ohh cus pee Le bs oth Su) che HE net age Cale lige 250d 545 od 4% obs | 4G aS yan Coad 4 ll glaze pbI way ls lS «Gdns Opa Ela wy
44 cpald g Lad pinm o> BA 6h cally” Ady sled SHI Gf gt ole Wad 9 4) p05) 29 CALS GU ge 1grgo Quay Gfiae (pol> pw 992 9 OER Bg ty 29 Olen S95 9 Curd) cual SS Bg AF lity iy regan if S95 "algiil 42 53953) Uso Sual
THe American BaHA'i
otorin SILI jag0> Cand) dob o> 35 PRESIDENT CLINTON'S LETTER TO SENATOR CLAIBORNE PELL core SILI cl Guloso or yl& Lala, Ao Condy +k Cpl sel 2 les PEGIg cries EE VANE CusT YY
o> pal Bul olily adhe ale! cdys Olea 4 to53 dy Cee RS 551 Ge At oly Lt jl
eas ay ge cys lSs Gans nee ay ay af & abel p> Leh So 5 olile Sf ares ou vals wale aslal pty Geb ayp0p2 dle! 1) et ee Moe GLT Gla! dpa le
obily, ploy! colby yy9 gliger Wb AS Cul Gate ysfol Le Glee FV EL Sate tbals
U by age glad, aS 9S weld deess abel Grey & liner AF progr GEebl Gt etl ot
NB plat oye hliggt Sli I! Gb aul Jac & Gaty At
dy reasaly!
Se oy ole
3 Ate oe ae GEC!
pals saat yo of Gnd dae jl ola ASI a> Cb gle 5 lj Hob S O55 gr 228 03S By oT sly Glo ae Geb 5 alo o25 ch S AS pct HR cel rt gISal oS col gal yl opey OUSLY Gul WEL wad 43,5 bs yo aut Jl de> G of 4» Ol nw Cull Olib GL Ev
Spe 155 pls LT Jom ole apne 51 LS jay Vo aS Cul aS CUS ie dlane ol GEL, She JRe jl Use Ope Wop ge clol 51 Se & Glbe WS And Upece dare punt bye Fl tle) ode J! pe Les dome oul iS ge de J! 5 GIS O13 OS 3p 3 seape J LI ay SE b25 ey Je ae seul JS 2
par AS rptiige pylee OLLy yl jl alactls lel plas Ggl 4 glOe a .ydlne GLEEL 5 CLL cesal 55 cel peel Jadlay gape by hel Opa ple Glos 5 5G, Cond f tape bees 59 pbbcl Jadicy wlactle pbs 5 Ge aS 5 ploy bd 0 VANE JLo 2,515 Sty Cul aleul gle 39 Je 4 hel ple Olib AS 9 Cul pte WS Col geld 5 iS So CdS SI oe & AI ES ak bow 52 5 alee pre eb Re
us rile hel pln Oli lag cb cuales SF Cul 09599 yell gil 2p CLLD of olsj> til Gaul LA 5 els Gate Hyle Geute plan of wale ty Sle plie of les slb3 4 py 5 Cig i! ONS gpSate pro & a She Geel Bo agth Jos Ob G52 rr P cable ald ad Shey db 2 5 oy sald JE ol & ayo by a9e Re Oleh NS ob az Gageh caul oat jyhre gla p55 Oli 29 3 BIS 5 Aes Gla 5 yy Glob bE Had GES SF pOLE cul 9,56,5 sloilS
slo ply,
ous wd Ge olesly 3! Lash ARC BUILDINGS ys) Qdthe 5550
Ups 5 tle gale Lene pie gLSL gf wl Sle Se GS GbIbh SES 5 ey DUT ay deel aype 52 | pact Jatin 5 24 dy 5 dyed aalsd Sacks (gt 51 oolizal 5 aS, 5N) Vesey sald Sle pl pepai bts 5 ars (NAAY CuST FY Erye plac! Jalon ply deny
agent hel eel 2 yerai tdlee Se Cb 4 JAS 29S topography 51 eoye 92 Ly of aS Cul sbeghsl So & of Serle of 09 13 gyro wap hie = poptst lo 4 UI gy Uys - Yo93 at sald Gly WIL Gol cand her Sp ol sale fare ot a oper Sal doer Gab ls ly
DEW s Bll tse 5 She Se GUS. HS LAB 5 Col aly ILI pt Od > ort) 2) oF piel Goud 4 alo ab § oLSl. Cod EGET Sy Jolt gaan) Cond alo 1B ort obul y5 ony Gly WS pleojim 599 Joe BELLS GIBI 5a cul of Loy 59 Glos 5 Col GS pm MAb aS gan Mb cout sli! 5 pbs le he 4 Sli Gly GLI 92 4 pbs pols p22 9 dsl Ab cal Guha IL Sy ELLs Brey Rib siz ajo GS pe dib wloe ob Uys cel Gybale 4 bl Gly dow Loe 92 Gloapl sls WF Gopas Alas 550 Cond
sop dalyd
Sm aptee ilye! ah sald orgs Lgl ole AE at wld SL pope pep IS Col Sly 39 2S NB oS Sold 52 4S oat Cb ole gaol oe AS ob i te BY TF tae Ly SN edgy lib Cyne ay gladle city at sald
3 oe at sald oe sazth 5 JS op 4S bel Geows 4 tt. “leon sli, sald
OWS AF ort acy ake LY BLS. ob
[Page 27]
Steps to service
Continued from Page 4
the ages of 18-21, traveling teaching, for trips up to three months and short- and long-term pioneering—to:
- Contact your local Spiritual
Assembly, or, if you are isolated or in a group, the nearest Assembly that knows you and arrange for consultation with this body. “...It is incumbent upon everyone not to take any step without consulting the Spiritual Assembly,...that things may be properly ordered and well arranged. -” ‘Abdu'l-Baha, Principles of Baha’t Administration, p. 42.) The Assembly can provide you with a copy of the Pioneer, BYSC or International Traveling Volunteer Form.
- Complete the form and send it,
with an up-to-date résumé, to the Office of Pioneering. Please follow up with the Assembly to ensure that it returns your Recommendation/ Evaluation Form as well. The more we know about you, the better able we are to help you prepare to serve. We are eager to consult with you about your expectations, desires, apprehensions and needs, and to share with you valuable information about the needs of the Cause in various countries and many of the practicalities for serving overseas. We also will introduce you to the responsible Institutions where you may decide to go and give you the addresses and telephone numbers for them.
- You may also want to consult
with your Auxiliary Board member for ideas on teaching, guidance for study, and support for your international project.
¢ Plan to attend a Pioneering Institute. Participation in this special program will provide you with the spiritual and practical foundation and a perspective on service which will enhance your ability to be happy and productive. Success in the international field is directly related to the spiritual and practical preparation undertaken.
The local Assembly can help the pioneering work by encouraging members of their community to arise to serve, emphasizing the need for donations to the Deputization Fund, focusing children’s classes on the
George Savitt, ‘Phil Ossofer’ and renowned punster, dies in Miami, Florida, at age 84
George Savitt, a Baha'i from Miami, Florida, who wrote a Baha'i-oriented newspaper column, “Phil Ossofer Says,” for 31 years in the Miami Times, and was known by Baha'is everywhere for his constant stream of outrageously inventive and humorous puns, died September 5 in Miami. He was 84 years old.
Mr. Savitt also wrote a book, The Bible Revisited, based on his newspaper columns, which was published in 1991, and recently completed a second book, The Nightingale Circle, for Naturegraph.
Mr. Savitt served for many years as treasurer of the Spiritual Assembly of Dade County Central.
subject of pioneering, and channeling the training and education of the members of its community in such a way that they will be well prepared for pioneering.
Not everyone can arise as an international pioneer or traveling teacher, but individuals, communities, and Assemblies all can support the pioneering work. One vital way is by contributing to the National Deputization Fund.
“Center your energies in the propagation of the Faith of God. Whoso is worthy of so high a calling, let him arise and promote it. Whoso is unable, it
‘ILm B.€. 151 / October 16, 1994
is his duty to appoint him who will, in his stead, proclaim this Revelation...” (Baha’u'll4h, Gleanings, pp.196-7.)
“...The dramatic expansion of the work of the Cause in recent years and the developments expected during this new [Three Year] Plan demand material resources. ...’—The Universal House of Justice, Ridvan 150
“...In the meantime we call on all believers everywhere to prayerfully consider their personal circumstances, and to arise while there is yet time, to fill the international
27
goals of the Plan... This must be done at all costs. No sacrifice, no deferment of cherished plans must be refused in order to discharge this ‘most important’ of the many ‘important’ duties facing us...”—Messages from the Universal House of Justice, pp. 89-90
Please contact the Office of Pioneering for assistance and information at the Baha’ National Center, Wilmette IL, 60091. Phone 708-7333508 (general), 733-3511 (traveling teaching, BYSC), 733-3512 (pioneering), or fax 708- 733-3509.
Baha'is in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, play leading role in ‘Affirmation Program’ sponsored by Interreligious Forum in response to anti-semitic remarks
The Interreligious Forum of Greater Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, planned and hosted an Affirmation Program on June 5 in response to comments about Jews made by a member of the Nation of Islam in Harrisburg.
The Spiritual Assembly of Harrisburg has been a member of the Forum since 1986. In planning the program, its representative conveyed the Assembly's wish that the response should not only be for the Jews but for all those who have experienced prejudice, slavery or loss of life
owing to discrimination.
The Forum appreciated this and decided to make the
Lesy Johana Martinez, a 16-year-old Baha
chores.
‘i from an orphanage operated by Baha'is in Comayagua, Honduras, is the first of the Garifuna people to attend the Maxwell International Baha'i School in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. The Faith has spread rapidly among the Garifuna in Honduras with some 20,000 new believers enrolled since 1990 (see the ‘Baha'i Newsreel,’ vol. 3, no. 2). Lesy’s interests include dance, auto mechanics, and computers. She is greatly missed at the orphanage where she was a leader for the younger children and had many responsibilities including nightly care of infants, cooking, teaching Baha'i classes, and supervising various other
program inclusive with people of many racial and religious backgrounds taking part. Representatives of various religious communities shared passages from their holy books on acceptance, tolerance and unity.
The Baha'is offered two quotations from Baha'u'llah and the prayer for unity. Songs of goodwill and coming together were performed by a soloist and choirs.
The response was positive, with many people saying
such a program should be held once or twice a year with grou
n Finan of Grosse
Pointe
standing in that area. ¢ Susan Harrison of Ann
Steffes Council holds 6th annual Awards Luncheon
The Baha'i Marion Steffes Council recently held its sixth annual Awards Luncheon in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, honoring special individuals from 15 Milwaukeearea American Indian organizations, schools and churches.
This was by far the most successful event to date with about 120 people taking part. There were many touching moments, especially when the Milwaukee Indian Economic Development Agency honored a Baha'i, Ron Davis, who died in August 1993. His daughter, Andrea Davis, accepted the award.
Another man had 15 of his relatives in attendance as he proudly accepted his award.
rms has been named Baha'i representative to the board of directors of the Racial Justice Center of Grosse Pointe, an interfaith organization that promotes interracial under Arbor has been chosen as one of a dozen community members serving in the 1994-95 Wayne State University Community Education Leadership Program,
out waiting for something negative to prompt it.
Baha'is in metro Detroit named to top posts with a number of leading non-profit groups
Baha'is in the Detroit area continue to expand their contacts with compatible non-profit
which selects leaders from diverse groups and encourages them to promote a project of unified action.
- Ted Amsden was recently
appointed to the board of directors of the Greater Detroit Interfaith Roundtable, an interfaith group that for the first time will have a Baha'i on its board.
¢ Mr. Amsden was also elected vice-president of the International Institute of Metropolitan Detroit, which provides social and legal services to newly arrived immigrants.
Nikta Khoshnavaz Fountain Valley, CA August 5, 1994 Lucille Lewis Sanford, FL.
July 30, 1994 George Savitt Miami, FL. September 5, 1994 Grace A. Soper Spokane, WA April 3, 1994 Carol L. Tate Auburn, WA August 29, 1994
Lu Ann Travis
Lena Amato New Orleans, LA August 7, 1994
Stacie Asmussen St. Joseph, MO July 21, 1994
John J. Barrett Altadena, CA August 7, 1994 Daniel L. Cramer New Salem, MA September 1, 1994 Clifford Ellingham Winter Park, FL August 28, 1993
LaVerne Farmer
Altadena, CA Foley, MN August 18, 1994 August 14, 1994 Herbert Wilbur
Pretty Sounding Flute Lower Brule, SI August 1, 1994 Khalil Vajdi
Mission Viejo, CA
Inez Hill
Conway, SC July 31, 1994
April 3, 1994 Margaret Varga i 5 Laramie, WY
Cae April 26, 1994
April 1994
[Page 28]
Galendar of events noe ae
OCTOBER
28-30: Youth Deepening Weekend, Bosch Baha’ School. Organized by the Sacramento-area Baha'f youth. For information, write to the school at 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, or phone 408-423-3387.
28-November 2: Annual meeting, of the International Society of Agriculture and Rural Development, Landegg Academy, Wienacht, Switzerland.
NOVEMBER
4-6: Wisconsin Family Weekend, Byron Center. Contact Lisa Reimer, West Bend, WI 53095 (phone 414-338-3023).
4-6: Youth Eagle Institute, Louhelen Baha't School. For information, phone 810-653-5033.
4-6: Fourth Haj Mehdi Arjmand Scripture Conference, De Poort, the Netherlands, with focus on the Kitdb-i-Aqdas. For information, phone Robert H. Stockman, 708-733-3425.
4-6: Rendezvous of the Soul Weekend, Bosch Baha'{ School, designed for individuals, groups or communities. For information, phone 408-423-3387.
11-13: Second annual Young Adult Conference, “Baha'i Marriage—A Shar]
ion,” - R Pe iain ide Phil i The Baha'is of Skokie, Illinois, marched in this year's Fourth of July parade with a | A nSeer onEnoeT Seg cee aa GemalOEL ie oh vinyl helium-filled balloon, nine feet in diameter, that was decorated to resemble 11-13: The Kitdb-i-Aqdas: Charter of a World Civilization, Green Acre Baha'i the earth with major continents in green and the U.S. in red, white and blue. School. Habib Riazati, facilitator. For information, phone 207-439-7200, or fax Holding hands around the ‘equator’ were cutouts of children in costumes of 207-439-7202. 4 : various lands. The Baha‘is also carried a banner that read ‘One Planet...One 11-13: “Women and Men: Building a Real Partnership,” Louhelen Baha't People, Bahéit Faith’ School. For information, phone 810-653-5033. any 8
12: Special program for the anniversary of the Birth of Baha'u'llah, Bosch
antubeale om'yimin dive oviteng caw saoyentalt «lil to 290k yt Baha'i School. For information, phone 408-423-3387. fr a] 12: Celebration of the anniversary of the Birth of Baha'u'llah, Louhelen Baha'f
1 |/movme? Seana ee neat eal | School. For information, phone 810-653-5033. ; TELLUS YOUR | sess and your malin label to MANAGE- 18-20: Adult Research Weekend and “Star Trek” Teaching Weekend (the | | New AppRess, | MENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS, mais | choice is yours), Bosch Baha'{ School. For information, phone 408-423-3387. I pecpamtprespbi.sapirdeigllt 2 roid | 18-22: Music Forum, Landegg Academy, Wienacht, Switzerland. Theme: “The Role of Music in a Changing World.” Worskhops conducted in English and | A. NAME(S): German. For information, please contact Landegg Academy, CH-9405, Wienacht/AR, Switzerland. | Me Tae | 24-27: Desert Rose Bahd'f School, Ramada Inn, Tucson, Arizona. Speakers: Dr. Khalil and Sue Williston Khavari, Keyvan Geula, Dr. Nat Rutstein. Entertain2. , Key a tee Tite | | ment by Dan Seals and the Soul Folk Trio. | 24-27: 0: (West) Baha'{ School, Menucha C: tion Center, Columbi. 3. -27: Oregon (West) Baha'{ School, Menucha Convention Center, Columbia ro Tide | Gorge (30. snlles east ofBottland). Registrars Normanilves, 2261 Olive Barber | 8 8 4 | Road, Coos Bay, OR 97420 (phone 503-267-3157). | og Tile I 24-27: Florida Baha’ School, Clarion Plaza, Orlando. For room reservations,
- — - = phone 407-352-9700 or fax 407-351-1911; for conference information, phone
[ B. NEW RESIDENCE ADDRESS: ‘C., NEW MAILING ADDRESS: ] Christina Lowcock, 813-688-8162. | | 25-27: Health and Healing Symposium, Bosch Baha’ School, with special rt ter Dr. Lameh fananpazir from the National Institutes of Healt er guest presenter Dr. Lameh Fananpazir from the National Institutes of Health. | seers FO | For information, phone 408-423-3387. | | 25-27: North Carolina Baha'{ School. “Fellowship, Fellowship, Love, Love, |" Avsreoc spat “Apartment # OF applicable) | Unity: Bahd'f Consultation.” Registrar: Sandra Miles, \ \ Winston-Salem, NC 27105 (phone 910-767-6888). Gay Gy | | DECEMBER | “Sue Zipeode Sate Zipesde | 2-4: San Francisco Baha'i Community Weekend, Bosch Baha'i School. For I registration information, phone the Baha'i Center of San Francisco, 415-432D. NEW COMMUNITY: E. HOME TELEPHONE NUMBER: 1 . Registration deadline: November 25. | I 2-4: Local Spiritual Assembly Development Workshop, Louhelen Bahd'f [Name of new Bahai Commanity Moving date “Area code Phone number Name | Shockey informadot Phone fee er - Pn se |: Fourth International Dialogue on the Transition to a Global Society, [SCR Ene SORE UMBE EO | | Landegg Academy, Wienacht, Switzerland. 9-11: cee ‘eam Development Weekend, Bosch Baha'i School. For iy P' \ — information, phone 408-423-3387. nt lt ardeemnand Aeon nee ee anes | 21-25: Classes by Dr. Riaz Ghadimi (in Persian) on Baha't Life/Tablets of | G. WE RECEIVE EXTRA COPIES BECAUSE: H.1 WOULD LIKE A COPY: | Baha'u'll4h, plus Level II Core Curriculum Training, and class on the practical ax a EE ee application of Baha'u'llh's Tablets (in English) by Keith Christian Jenson, VE pees ee om mes) et me ct tee a |] omementereereezed| | tecnibahe't School #Ror informition; phone 408-423-3307. PI | cancel the copy forthe persons) and LD. lstedabovethefullnames ofall family nem- | receivemy owncopy. thave listed my name, | 23-26: 10th annual Grand Canyon Baha'f Conference, Hyatt Regency Hotel, listed above. LD. iber and address above y y 8 Dy [ores antral hated harem Me a | | | Phoenix, Arizona. Guest speakers, entertainment, workshops, special classes . tions 90 that we will receive only one copy. for pre-youth. For hotel reservations, phone 800-359-7253 before December 10. 3 ee For conference information, phone the GCBC hotline, 602-375-8082, from 7-9
p-m. Mountain time. Pre-registration is advised, as seating is limited during the main sessions and workshops.
27-January 1: “Challenges of the Present Hour,” Dr. Soheil Bushrui, who occupies the Baha'f Chair for World Peace at the University of Maryland, Bosch Baha'i School, plus social scientist Fred White on “Changing the American Character.” For information, write to t he school at 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, or phone 408-423-3387.
27-January 1: Winter School Session, “The Life of Baha'u'llah” and “MileVeslalusLslasdDoUlsses/lesssclaallaledhallelbad stones to the Millennium,” Louhelen Baha'i School. For information, phone 810653-5033.
27-January 2: Forum ‘94 (fifth annual Forum for Young Professionals), Landegg Academy, Wienacht, Switzerland. Theme: “The Role of the Aesthetic in a Global Society.” For more information: Landegg Academy, CH-9405 Wienacht/AR, Switzerland.
28-30: Second annual May Township Youth Conference, Wilder Forest Conference Center near St. Paul, Minnesota. Theme: “Living a Life of Service.” Youth ages 11-20 welcome. For information, write to Ken or Peggy McNamara,
Marine on St. Croix, MN 55047, or phone 612-433
60091
5089.
BAHA'f NATIONAL CENTER 112 Linden Avenue
Wilmette, IL
‘ILM B.€. 151 / Octoper 16, 1994
