The American Bahá’í/Volume 10/Issue 11/Text
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Hand of Cause Olinga, Family Slain in Uganda[edit]
WITH GRIEF-STRICKEN HEARTS ANNOUNCE TRAGIC NEWS BRUTAL MURDER DEARLY LOVED GREATLY ADMIRED HAND CAUSE GOD ENOCH OLINGA BY UNKNOWN GUNMEN COURTYARD HIS KAMPALA HOME. HIS WIFE ELIZABETH, AND THREE OF HIS CHILDREN BADI, LENNIE AND TAHIRIH HAVE ALSO FALLEN INNOCENT VICTIMS THIS CRUEL ACT. MOTIVE ATTACK NOT YET ASCERTAINED. HIS RADIANT SPIRIT, HIS UNWAVERING FAITH, HIS ALL-EMBRACING LOVE, HIS LEONINE AUDACITY IN THE TEACHING FIELD, HIS TITLES KNIGHT BAHA’U’LLAH FATHER VICTORIES CONFERRED BELOVED GUARDIAN, ALL COMBINE DISTINGUISH HIM AS PRE EMINENT MEMBER HIS RACE IN ANNALS FAITH AFRICAN CONTINENT. URGE FRIENDS EVERYWHERE HOLD MEMORIAL GATHERINGS BEFITTING TRIBUTE HIS IMPERISHABLE MEMORY. FERVENTLY PRAYING HOLY SHRINES PROGRESS HIS NOBLE SOUL AND SOULS FOUR MEMBERS HIS PRECIOUS FAMILY.
September 17, 1979
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According to news reports, the beloved Hand of the Cause of God Enoch Olinga, his wife and three of their five children were brutally slain by unknown assassins in the courtyard of their home in Kampala, Uganda, sometime during the early morning hours of Sunday, September 16.
The reports said nothing had been taken from the home, and the motive for the murders was unknown.
ONLY A FEW months before his tragic death, Mr. Olinga had cabled the Universal House of Justice the joyous news that the House of Worship in Kampala was once again open following the overthrow of the government of Gen. Idi Amin.
Mr. Olinga, a native of Kampala, embraced the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh in 1952 and spent the years from 1952-63 as a pioneer in West Africa, principally in the Cameroons, Nigeria and Ghana.
He became a Knight of Bahá’u’lláh through his heroic efforts in opening the British Cameroons to the Faith, and in October 1957 was named a Hand of the Cause of God by the Guardian, Shoghi Effendi, the only native African ever to achieve that distinction.
After his appointment as a Hand of the Cause, Mr. Olinga traveled extensively in Europe, South East Asia, Australia and New Zealand.
MR. OLINGA came to the United States on at least two occasions, and visited many cities and towns in the Deep South during a period of largescale
THE HAND OF THE CAUSE ENOCH OLINGA
‘Father of Victories’ Brutally Murdered
The Chamber in which the Báb made His momentous Declaration to Mullá Husayn, its ceiling caved in, was all but destroyed by the mob.
Attack on House of Báb Led by High Officials[edit]
The situation in Iran continues to worsen, with persecution of Bahá’ís and confiscation of their businesses and other properties culminating in September in a cowardly and destructive attack on the sacred House of the Báb in Shíráz.
The National Spiritual Assembly, which has joined with other Bahá’í institutions around the world in mounting a vigorous protest against these outrageous acts by the Revolutionary Government in Iran, issued the following report (prepared by the National Spiritual Assembly of the United Kingdom) of the desecration of the House of the Báb and the events leading up to it:
LAST MARCH, barely a month after the Revolution, all major Bahá’í Holy Places in Iran were forcibly occupied by the Revolutionary Guardsmen.
The House of the Báb, the Most Holy Place in Iran for Bahá’ís, was confiscated under the pretext of protecting it from vandalism by the mob.
The Central Revolutionary Committee in Shíráz then asked the Bahá’ís to surrender their local Bahá’í Center, a choice property in the town, for the use of the Revolutionary Committee, in exchange for the protection of the House of the Báb, which already was in their possession.
All properties owned by the Bahá’í community were subsequently confiscated in June.
AFTER REPEATED appeals by Bahá’ís in Iran and abroad, the Revolutionary Government assured the Bahá’ís that such confiscation was done only for the purpose of protecting the properties, although a number of them (including the Bahá’í National Office, the Bahá’í Summer School and the Temple land in Ṭihrán) were being used by the Revolutionary Committees and all had been partially or totally looted.
On September 8:
- A countrywide demonstration was called to commemorate the historic uprising last year that led to the downfall of the Sháh.
- Following the procession in Shíráz, a group of 100 to 150 of the demonstrators moved toward the House of the Báb. In preparation for what they wanted to achieve, various items of equipment needed for destruction and demolition of the House were already stored in an Islamic religious building, the “Husayniyyih.”
The room once occupied by the wife of the Báb was extensively damaged during the September attack.
Swiss Church Document Cites Iran Persecutions[edit]
In September, the human rights commission of the Federation of Protestant Churches in Switzerland released a report on the status of religious minorities in Iran which outlined many of the grave injustices committed against the Iranian Bahá’í community by the Revolutionary Government of the Ayatollah Khomeini.
The document was being published, the commission said, “in the hope that those persons invested with the task of elaborating a new constitution for Iran would pay special attention to the protection of minorities and would grant religious freedom.”
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Inside ... THE NATIONAL Assembly announces its budget for the first year of the Seven Year Plan. Page 3 NEW TEACHING program emphasizes firesides, reaching all strata of society. Page 4 BAHÁ’Í COUPLE in Connecticut loses fight to adopt a black child. Page 8 19TH ANNUAL Green Lake Bahá’í Conference salutes past conferences, attracts record-breaking audience. Page 9 SPECIAL VISIT Program delights, inspires visitors to the Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette. Pages 10, 11 |
SUCH FREEDOM, the report concluded, has been systematically denied to the Bahá’ís, whose 450,000 members represent the largest religious minority in Iran.
The report cited three main areas of repression being practiced against the Bahá’í community in Iran:
- Administrative Strangulation.
- Financial Strangulation.
- Social and Personal Strangulation.
The commission detailed a number of outrageous acts perpetrated by the government against Bahá’ís: confiscation of businesses, cemeteries, a Bahá’í-owned hospital and other properties; illegal searches and seizures; arrests and interrogations; disruption of Bahá’í meetings; theft of membership lists; dismissals from jobs and confiscation of personal assets; unwarranted and untruthful allegations.
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Editorial In the last several months a number of Persian Bahá’ís have entered the United States and become part of the American Bahá’í community. The sudden introduction of a fairly large group of Bahá’ís from another country represents a challenge and an opportunity both for the new arrivals and for their hosts. ALL IMMIGRANTS in the history of this country have undergone difficulties in adapting to a new and unfamiliar society. Our Iranian brothers and sisters are no exception. Some of them do not speak English; others understand it only with difficulty. Many find American life and manners strange and disturbing. Patterns of behavior, social customs, ways of doing business, recreational pursuits, all may produce negative reactions in them. Conversely, native Americans sometimes display an attitude of superiority toward new arrivals, assuming that American standards are or should be universal standards, that everyone must conform to them, and that a person’s worth is measured by the degree to which he approximates the American ideal. FORTUNATELY, the Bahá’í community is imbued with the spirit of friendship and tolerance. Persian Bahá’ís know that when they enter the American Bahá’í community they join their own family. They remember the distinguished American Bahá’ís who have contributed so much to the life of the Bahá’í community in Iran, among them Keith Ransom-Kehler, Martha Root, Clare Sharp, and Adelaide Sharp, the first woman to serve on the National Spiritual Assembly of Iran. American Bahá’ís, for their part, remember with gratitude the services rendered to their community by Mirzá Abu’l-Faḍl, Jinab-i-Faḍil-i-Mazandarani, and ‘Alí Qulí Khán. Persian and American Bahá’ís share a keen sense of partnership in the service of the Cause and the construction of the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh. THEREFORE, it is with joy and open arms that the American Bahá’í community receives its Persian brothers and sisters. Many of these friends will stay here only a short time, dispersing over the world as pioneers and settlers, while others will remain among us. To all of them we extend a loving welcome and an invitation quickly to assume their rightful place among the ranks of the upholders and promoters of the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh in America. |
More than 50 buses in Orange County, California, have been carrying Bahá’í ‘Love That Child’ posters in honor of the United Nations International Year of the Child. The poster project is sponsored by the Bahá’í community of Newport Beach. A fund-raising effort among nearby communities was so successful that all expenses were met and a $500 surplus was sent to the Bahá’í International Fund on behalf of the Bahá’ís of Southern California.
COMMENT
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By DR. JALIL MAHMOUDI
“Community” has been defined in many ways, including geographic, demographic and/or ecologic terms.
The community that we are referring to is a social group with interactional characteristics; a group of people who are bound together by a common bond to achieve common goals.
A REAL community, moreover, is characterized by common sentiments, sympathy, consensus, cooperation and a sense of belonging, which is the source of security and well-being for its members.
The Bahá’í community, which often is referred to as the “Community of the Most Great Name,” with its world-embracing universality and universally shared norms, values and goals, is a perfect example of such a community.
Moreover, the Bahá’í Faith is divine in origin, according to its followers; thus, not only are the community’s objectives sacred, they also are the means to achieve these divinely prescribed goals.
The most important elements in this community are its individual members, on whose shoulders lies the responsibility of bringing into being the Kingdom of God on earth.
THUS THE Bahá’í community, which is spiritual in nature, is composed of spiritual members. It is the degree of spiritual devotion and character of the individual members that determines the spirit of the community.
All the Bahá’í institutions have been decreed to bring about this great spirit that is the very foundation of the Faith.
Among the institutions established by the Báb and confirmed by Bahá’u’lláh is that of the “Nineteen Day Feast.”
The Feast is described by the beloved Guardian as the foundation of the new World Order.
Each Feast consists of three parts. The first is spiritual and devotional, and is confined to reading from the Bahá’í sacred Writings.
THE SECOND part is administrative and consultative. This is the time when the Local Spiritual Assembly reports its activities to the community and asks for discussion, consultation and suggestions.
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This month’s article, “A Sense of Community,” was written by Dr. Jalil Mahmoudi, an Auxiliary Board member who is professor emeritus of languages and sociology at the University of Utah. Dr. Mahmoudi, the author of several books in Persian and English, is a former dean of the Iranian College of Education, director general of the Ministry of Agriculture in Iran, and economic adviser to the U.S. Embassy in Iran. He taught for several years at the University of Ṭihran, Iran, and has been a visiting professor at several universities in the U.S. |
The third part of each Feast is social, and provides an opportunity for those attending to meet each other, socialize and have the material feast.
“These meetings,” the National Spiritual Assembly said in a statement entitled Bahá’í Procedures (Section 1, Sheet 6), “may be regarded as the very heart of our Bahá’í community life.
“When properly conducted, and attended by a Bahá’í community which fully appreciates their importance, the Nineteen Day Feasts serve to renew and deepen our spirit of faith, increase our capacity for united action, remove misunderstandings and keep us fully informed of all important Bahá’í activities, local, national and international in scope.”
The Feast also serves as an arena of primary relationship and fellowship, and is considered to be the heart of local Bahá’í activity.
IN LARGER communities, where there is a great number of Bahá’ís, the Nineteen Day Feast presently is divided into several Feasts to keep the number of attendants small and to have it as close to a “primary group” as possible.
All three parts of the Feast are of utmost importance in the realization of the high aspirations of the Bahá’í community; however, it is the third part which I would like to emphasize and discuss.
One of the fundamental needs and desires of human beings is the need for acceptance and sense of belonging.
People need to be accepted wholeheartedly within their particular group or groups. They should feel that they belong.
IT IS THROUGH the primary relationship, which is face-to-face interaction, that these traits are expressed and felt.
Fellowship, caring, and the sense of community, shared and experienced, make life meaningful and bring joy and elation to the hearts.
When each member of the community is accepted wholeheartedly by the rest of the members, he or she notices the real sense of sympathy, understanding and love. That is where the sense of solidarity and cohesiveness is felt, and, as a result, the real sense of community comes into the picture.
Otherwise, a number of individuals without these spiritual and emotional ties and interactions are no more than that—individuals, not a community.
Wholehearted acceptance of each member by the others, regardless of background, social standing, or “barriers” such as language, etc., is the most essential ingredient of Bahá’í community life and the Bahá’í Feast.
EVERYONE who attends a Feast expects you to go to him or her and express your warm Bahá’í greetings, your love, and your heartfelt concern. The most important aspects of all these are genuine sincerity and spirituality.
In short, acceptance and the sense of belonging are the sources of personal security and satisfaction, as well as the primary ingredient of group solidarity.
It is our heartfelt affection and love for the other members of our community that bring about these conditions, and are considered the essential elements in the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh and the realization of our highest spiritual aspirations.
We owe these great and cherished human traits to ourselves, to our fellow Bahá’ís, to our fellow human beings, and, most of all, to Bahá’u’lláh.
The Hon. David Gibbons, premier of Bermuda (fourth from right) meets with members of the government’s National Coordinating Committee for the International Year of the Child and a group of Bahá’ís who came from California last July to entertain at an IYC benefit concert in Bermuda. The meeting received television and newspaper coverage. Shown here (left to right) are Bahá’ís Stacy Nemour, Joan Nemour, Paul Blote, Bill Nemour, Bob Gundry, and Georgia Sanchez-Stevens, a pioneer to Bermuda; IYC committee officials Al Eve, Conchita Ming and Roger Titterton; Mr. Gibbons; and Bahá’ís Don Reed, Leslie Bulkin and Kelly Bulkin. Other musicians making the trip from California were Bahá’ís Gary Bulkin and Ernest (Chip) Bruss. Proceeds from the IYC concert are being used to help build a Cultural Center in Bermuda.
Budget Requires 10 Per Cent Rise in Contributions[edit]
The National Spiritual Assembly has announced its budget for the first year of the Seven Year Plan.
At the National Convention last April, the National Assembly announced that it would not finalize its budget for the new fiscal year until it had time to assess the impact of the newly-released Seven Year Plan on programs and activities at the National Center.
THE BUDGET was completed during the National Spiritual Assembly’s meeting August 31-September 2. It is similar to last year’s budget with a few exceptions.
Of course, the most dramatic change in the current budget was occasioned by the crisis in the International Fund. Our community’s allocation to that Fund was increased from $430,000 last year to $1 million this year.
The salient features of the newly-adopted budget are these:
Revenue. The National Spiritual Assembly has based its plans on a total income of $5,125,000.
THIS WILL come from $3,960,000 in contributions (a 10 per cent increase over last year’s goal of $3,600,000), and $1,165,000 in estate and other income.
The projected estate income is determined from wills that the National Spiritual Assembly knows are presently in probate and are likely to be settled during the year.
Expenditures. In general, expenditures by the national committees and offices will remain at nearly the same levels and proportions as reported at the National Convention, with the following notable exceptions:
- As previously mentioned, the Bahá’í International Fund allocation has been raised to $1 million for the year.
- ALL COMMITTEES and offices have been asked to reduce their expenditures by 10 per cent from the prior year to free more money for the International Fund.
- The internationally known firm of Hill & Knowlton has been retained to assist the National Spiritual Assembly with its public relations efforts.
This service will cost approximately $200,000 during the year, and already has begun to improve the understanding of the Faith in the eyes of the American public and the country’s leaders.
The larger contributions goal of $3,960,000 represents a significant challenge to the American believers who last year contributed $3,180,000 to the National Fund.
The National Spiritual Assembly is confident that the friends will arise to meet these urgent needs.
‘Planned Giving’ Offers Many Benefits to Giver[edit]
At the National Bahá’í Convention last April, the National Spiritual Assembly announced the inauguration of a “Planned Giving Program” to stimulate gifts to the Fund of accumulated assets such as stocks, bonds, real property, personal property, life insurance, and so forth.
Most Bahá’ís know how to contribute regularly to the Fund from current earnings; however, there is a vast area of gift potential that is beginning to be cultivated through this new program.
THE LAWS of this country are written to encourage giving to charitable institutions. Incentives take the form of tax benefits from which both the donor and the institution can benefit.
In today’s economy—and under today’s complex tax laws—it is important for Bahá’ís to plan their affairs carefully, to avoid unnecessary taxes, and to be in a position to support the Fund.
For this reason, the National Spiritual Assembly is pleased to announce the first issue of its new publication, “Guidelines to Planned Giving.”
The publication is interesting, informative, and helps the friends in making their own financial plans.
TOPICS TO BE covered in the “Guidelines” include the importance of a will in estate planning; the steps necessary in planning a “thoughtful” will; trusts and tax planning; estate planning for women; the import of tax laws on gifts made during one’s life or at death; etc.
This publication, which will be issued four times a year, will point out new developments in the tax laws, offer ideas on ways to save on taxes, and warn the friends of common tax pitfalls that could prove costly to them.
For more information on the “Planned Giving Program,” contact the Office of the Treasurer, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-256-4400, ext. 155.
On Sunday, July 15, the Bahá’ís of Menomonie, Wisconsin, erected a Bahá’í sign on the main street leading into and out of town. For a year, efforts had been made to obtain permission to add a Bahá’í sign to those of local churches that invite people to “come worship with us.” Shown here at the ‘groundbreaking’ ceremony for the new sign are (left to right) Hank and Ginger Wich and their children, Rachelle and Paul; Jack Faris (kneeling), and Linda and Dick Gardner and their son, Benson.
Questions for the Treasurer
Q: I understand that a Bahá’í is supposed to support all four of the Funds (local, National, International and Continental) regularly. I know something about the local and National Funds and about the current crisis in the International Fund. However, I would like to know more about the Continental Fund. What is its purpose?
A: In a cablegram dated April 6, 1954, addressed to all the Hands of the Cause and all National Spiritual Assemblies in the Bahá’í world, the beloved Guardian called for the appointment, by the 15 Hands of the Cause outside the Holy Land, of Auxiliary Boards.
Foreseeing the growth of activities of these Auxiliary Boards, Shoghi Effendi also included in the cable the following: “Urge the initiation of five Continental Bahá’í Funds which, as they develop, will increasingly facilitate the discharge of the functions assigned to the Boards. Transmitting five thousand pounds as my initial contribution to be equally divided among the five continents. Appeal to the twelve National Assemblies and individuals to insure a steady augmentation of these Funds through annual assignment in National Budgets and by individual contributions ... Fervently supplicating at the Holy Threshold for an unprecedented measure of blessings on this vital and indispensable organ of the embryonic and steadily unfolding Bahá’í Administrative Order...” (Messages to the Bahá’í World, p. 59)
THUS THE Continental Bahá’í Fund was established by the beloved Guardian and initiated by his own generous contribution to it at the very moment that he called for the creation of the Auxiliary Boards to assist and advise the Hands of the Cause in the development of their special areas of service to the Faith.
Again the importance of the Continental Fund was emphasized by the Universal House of Justice in a letter to the believers throughout the world dated December 18, 1963:
“Nor should the believers, individually or in their assemblies, forget the vitally important Continental Funds which provide for the work of the Hands of the Cause of God and their Auxiliary Boards.
“This divine institution, so assiduously fostered by the Guardian, and which has already played a unique role in the history of the Faith, is destined to render increasingly important services in the years to come.” (Wellspring of Guidance, p. 20)
WITH THE appointment by the Universal House of Justice of the Continental Boards of Counsellors in June 1968 (during the Nine Year Plan), the responsibility for the activities of the Auxiliary Boards and for the Continental Funds to support them passed to each Board of Counsellors for its respective continent.
At the present time (1979), there are 13 Continental Boards of Counsellors throughout the world, and each Board has its Continental Bahá’í Fund and its Trustee.
The National Assemblies of Alaska, the Bahamas, Canada and the United States, plus the island of Bermuda form the area of responsibility of the Continental Board of Counsellors for the Protection and Propagation of the Faith in North America.
The Continental Bahá’í Fund, supported, as requested by the Guardian and the Universal House of Justice, by allocations from the National and Local Spiritual Assemblies and by the individual believers in these four national communities, is used to underwrite the activities of the Counsellors and their Auxiliary Boards in these same areas.
REFERRING to the “bountiful harvest” of the Five Year Plan, the Universal House of Justice in its Naw-Rúz 1979 message announcing the new Seven Year Plan, stated:
“In the world at large the Bahá’í community is now firmly established. The Institution of the Hands of the Cause of God, the Chief Stewards of Bahá’u’lláh’s embryonic World Commonwealth, is bearing a precious fruit in the development of the International Teaching Centre as a mighty institution of the World Centre of the Faith: an institution blessed by the membership of all the Hands of the Cause; an institution whose beneficent influence is diffused to all parts of the Bahá’í community through the Continental Boards of Counsellors, the members of the Auxiliary Boards and their assistants.”
Elsewhere in the Seven Year Plan message, reference is made to the various funds of the Faith in relation to the worldwide financial resources:
“We therefore appeal to the friends everywhere to exercise the utmost economy in the use of funds and to make those sacrifices in their personal lives which will enable them to contribute their share, according to their means, to the local, national, continental and international funds of the Faith.” (Continental Board of Counselors)
ADDRESSES OF FUNDS
- National Bahá’í Fund
- 112 Linden Avenue
- Wilmette, IL 60091
- Continental Bahá’í Fund
- 418 Forest Avenue
- Wilmette, IL 60091
- Bahá’í International Fund
- P.O. Box 155
- Haifa, Israel 31-000
(Note to Persian believers: The obligation to contribute to these Funds is separate from the Law of Huqúqu’lláh. For information on Huqúqu’lláh, write to K. Kazemzadeh, 15276 De Pauw St., Pacific Palisades, CA 90272.)
Teaching Committee Airs Fireside Plans[edit]
The National Teaching Committee has begun a new program for Assemblies, emphasizing first community firesides, followed by a program for individual firesides.
Beginning with the month of Qudrat (Power) on November 4, the committee requests that Local Assemblies establish an ongoing program of firesides that will carry through Riḍván 1980.
BY FOCUSING the energy of the friends on fireside teaching early in the Plan, the committee believes that a steady and diversified expansion of the community will occur.
The proposed calendar of activities is as follows:
November 4-23: The program is inaugurated during this Bahá’í month with 18 consecutive days of community firesides.
November 23-December 30: A unity Feast for the month of Qawl (Speech) begins a two-month period of individual firesides focusing on teaching non-Bahá’í members of families and religious fellowship.
December 31-February 7: A unity Feast for the month of Sharaf (Honor) begins two months of individual firesides focusing on teaching youth. During this period, in January, is the study month being developed by the National Education Committee, based on the spiritual requisites for teaching.
February 7-March 2: A unity Feast for the month of Mulk (Dominion) begins a two-month period focusing on teaching minorities.
March 2-April 9: A unity Feast for the month of ‘Alá’ (Loftiness) begins the Fast and a two-month period with the focus on teaching women, and women teaching women.
April 9-May 2: While individual firesides continue, the emphasis is on the formation of Assemblies and election of officers. Special attention will be given to the formation of new Assemblies and on ensuring that no Assemblies are lost.
The committee has asked that Assemblies report by phone their achievements during the month of consecutive firesides so it can keep track of the progress of the friends and share that information with those who call in.
Auxiliary Board member Nat Rutstein of Amherst, Massachusetts, addresses the ‘mini-conference’ in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
‘Mini-Conferences’ Probe Impact of Crisis in Iran[edit]
In September, the Continental Board of Counsellors and the National Spiritual Assembly cosponsored a number of “mini-conferences” in various areas of the country to share with the believers the latest information on the crisis in Iran, and to discuss the impact of that crisis on activities at the World Centre and the prosecution of the Seven Year Plan.
A total of 19 conferences were held with attendance averaging between 60 and 70.
ON SEPTEMBER 9, the friends met in Boulder, Colorado; Louisville, Kentucky; Omaha, Nebraska; Buffalo, New York; Norman, Oklahoma; Pendleton, Oregon; Greenville, South Carolina; Nashville, Tennessee; and Salt Lake City, Utah.
A week later, mini-conferences were held in Atlanta, Georgia; Wichita, Kansas; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Columbia, Missouri; Jackson, Mississippi; Billings, Montana; Greensboro, North Carolina; Las Cruces, New Mexico; Las Vegas, Nevada; and Laramie, Wyoming.
At each of the gatherings, the friends heard a tape recording of Universal House of Justice member H. Borrah Kavelin who visited North America and Europe this summer as an emissary from the Supreme Body to elucidate the impact of the present crisis on the Bahá’í world.
Among other things, Mr. Kavelin called upon the believers in the U.S. and elsewhere to assume the financial burden so reluctantly relinquished by the beleaguered Bahá’í community in Iran.
AT LEAST ONE Auxiliary Board member was present at each of the conferences to give the keynote address and to lend inspiration and support.
Typical was the conference in Pittsburgh where Auxiliary Board member Nat Rutstein of Amherst, Massachusetts, offered a perspective on the importance and achievement of goals.
Every Plan issued by the Universal House of Justice, he said, represents another step in the unfoldment of God’s Divine Plan for mankind.
“But goals are only guideposts,” he added. “There is something far more important, and that is developing the spiritual energy that burns continuously within each of us.”
THE KEY to developing that spiritual power, said Mr. Rutstein, is deepening. True deepening, he said, means studying the Writings every day.
“If we don’t do that,” he said, “we are not being faithful to the Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh.”
Larry Miller of Roswell, Georgia, a member of the National Teaching Committee, outlined the goals of the Seven Year Plan, adding that the power to achieve the goals rests with the individual believer.
Among the plans being considered by the National Teaching Committee, he said, is that of a Spanish-Speaking Teaching Committee to join the already-established American Indian, Vietnamese, and Asian-American Teaching Committees in teaching minority groups in this country.
Discussion has also been held, he said, on the need to establish a systematic program for teaching the handicapped.
‘Love That Child’ was the theme of a float entered by the Bahá’í community of Beaverton, Oregon, in Tigard’s ‘Town and Country Days’ parade August 4. The float won a third prize and drew favorable comments from parade watchers. Riding on the float were children of American, Chinese, Persian and Scandinavian backgrounds from four Bahá’í communities.
The Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Greater McLean, Virginia, held its Recognition Ceremony June 3. Members include (front row left to right) Julie Gregg, Robin Burr, Laurie Dameron, and (back row left to right) William Gregg, Keith Burr, James Price, Thomas Arrowsmith. Not shown are Assembly members Gail Burr and Thomas Bieber.
Massachusetts to Plan Special Teaching to Double Numbers[edit]
The Hand of the Cause of God Raḥmatu’lláh Muhájir, who recently moved to this country, was present September 1 in Boston at a meeting between the National Spiritual Assembly and six District Teaching Committees from the Northeastern states.
The National Spiritual Assembly disclosed at the meeting that Massachusetts has been added to the list of states conducting “special teaching plans and consolidation activities” as called for by the Universal House of Justice in the Seven Year Plan.
OTHER STATES on that list are California, Illinois, and New York along with the District of Columbia.
Massachusetts has been asked to double the number of believers in that state by the end of the Plan.
According to M. Grace Tavares, convenor of the Massachusetts District Teaching Committee, an intensive teaching project was begun last August in the Greater Boston area. Its goals are to open every locality in the Greater Boston area to the Faith, strengthen every existing Local Spiritual Assembly, and bring every Group of five or more members to Assembly status.
To facilitate these goals, said Mrs. Tavares, the friends have been engaged in direct teaching using the “green booklet” inspired by the visit last year of Continental Counsellor Hedi Aḥmadiyyih. In addition, firesides were held for 19 consecutive days in September, resulting in nine enrollments.
The District Teaching Committee, in response to the National Spiritual Assembly’s request, soon will extend direct teaching throughout the state, according to Mrs. Tavares.
The committee also plans to assist all universities in the Greater Boston area with special teaching projects.
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VANGUARD Youth News |
Youth Projecteers ‘Family’ for a Week[edit]
“What are we going to do on the work/study project?”
That is usually the first question asked by projecteers after they arrive in Wilmette, Illinois, for their week-long stay.
Most youth are intrigued by the project mailer they’ve received; many have read about work/study projects in The American Bahá’í, while some have friends who have taken part in one.
Few, however, know exactly what is in store for them, other than the fact that they’ll be working at the Bahá’í National Center and taking some sort of classes.
Activities and arrangements differ on each project. But the framework is basically the same, and that is what work/study alumni remember when reminiscing with each other.
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Fifteen youth arrive Sunday, August 26, for the August Youth Work/Study Project.
Some, like Audrey Morris and Penny Schmicker from Indiana, come by bus. Several fly into Chicago’s O’Hare Airport.
Lisa Mereness from Montana and Shohreh Farahani from Oklahoma meet at the airport when their planes arrive at about the same time.
SOME YOUTH who live closer, like Shirin Lee from Wisconsin, travel by car.
By five o’clock Sunday evening all the projecteers have arrived: Mary Broder, Joe DeFlorio and Mike Nazerian from Michigan; Stacy Carson from Colorado; Chris Dwyer and Jim Qualls from Indiana; Susan Felker from New Hampshire; Karen Locher from Texas; Pat Neyman from Illinois; April Young from South Carolina.
These 15 people, with project coordinator Linnea Brush and a volunteer assistant, Rob Stockman from Rhode Island, will be a family for a week—eating, working and studying together.
Sunday night, the youth attend Feast in the Glencoe community—receiving spiritual sustenance and social orientation for their week in Wilmette.
THE NEXT morning, the youth are picked up at the hotel where they are staying and taken to the National Center where they are given a tour of all the offices.
The observation most often heard is, “I didn’t realize the offices were so spread out.”
It’s true. The youth visit eight separate buildings, in Wilmette and Evanston, and meet the staff of the Secretariat, Community Administration, the House of Worship, the Bahá’í Home, the Publishing Trust, the committee offices, periodicals, and Office of the Treasurer—the last located in the newly-acquired building that will house all offices except the Publishing Trust, National Archives and House of Worship Activities Office by the end of next year.
After lunch, the youth attend a class on “The Administrative Order” given by Marcia Walton, a member of the National Education Committee staff.
ON THE work/study application, each youth has indicated the offices in which he or she would like to work.
Except for the class on the Administrative Order, weekday mornings and afternoons are to be spent working in the various National Center offices.
One youth says later that he enjoyed guiding at the House of Worship “because I got to talk to people.” Another liked working at the Publishing Trust: “The filing part wasn’t that great, but learning about ordering, billing, accounting and the other operations at the Trust was quite informative.”
Other youth work in the mail room, the International Goals office, Community Administration, the Teaching Committee office, and the Office of the Treasurer. Each shares his experiences during supper.
EVENINGS give the projecteers an opportunity to pray at the House of Worship, enjoy the gardens, and meet—and teach—visitors to the House of Worship from all over the world.
From 7:30 to 9 each evening, special guest speakers address the youth.
On one evening they hear Dr. Magdalene Carney, assistant secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly, talk about the National Assembly’s expectations for youth, and how Bahá’í youth should always strive for excellence; another night, June Ritter from the International Goals Committee shows slides of her recent teaching trip to the South Pacific, telling stories, explaining customs, and absorbing the youth in the wonders of pioneering.
Glenford Mitchell, secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly, stimulates everyone with his energy and knowledge of the Administrative Order; John Conkling, secretary of the National Teaching Committee, shares a slide program, “The Ideal Bahá’í,” that was shown at the National Convention last April.
TUESDAY afternoon, the youth tour the House of Worship and learn something of its history from Bruce Whitmore, director of the House of Worship Activities Office.
Besides visiting the “cornerstone” room (ask any one of these youth why it isn’t really a cornerstone), and seeing a slide program and the original model of the Temple, the projecteers are taken to the clerestory level of the House of Worship—where most visitors never go.
And one morning, everyone rises early and goes to the House of Worship for dawn prayers. The spiritual bonds grow stronger.
The schedule is tight and busy. By the end of the week, everyone is ready for some relaxation.
Friday evening, the project coordinator hosts a party that includes music, dancing, games and talk.
“BEING WITH the other youth for a whole week was my favorite experience,” says one. “There was such a feeling of unity and friendship—it was really great!”
On Saturday, the youth trade their dresses, shirts and ties for jeans and work gloves. The day will be spent cleaning the beach along the property of the Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds.
A beautiful day awaits them: blue skies and a bright sun shining down on Lake Michigan. The projecteers dig, pick up trash, pull weeds, rake; later, they swim and play Frisbee.
On the last evening of the project, the youth attend a surprise birthday party for an employee at the National Center. There is a disco dance and delicious food.
At this point, it is impossible for some to believe that the project has ended, their friends will be leaving, the week is over ...
•
The memories linger on. “I changed a good deal spiritually,” writes one of the youth. “This was the best week of my life.” It is the sort of comment heard often after a work/study project has been completed.
Bahá’í youth who attended the August Youth Work/Study Project at the Bahá’í National Center were (front row left to right) Lisa Mereness, April Young, Penelope Schmicker, James Qualls, Mike Nazerian, Karen Locher, Christopher Dwyer, Mary Broder, and (back row left to right) Rob Stockman (volunteer assistant), Shohreh Farahani, Shirin Lee, Susan Felker, Audrey Morris, Patricia Neyman, Joseph DeFlorio, Stacy Carson.
A group of Bahá’í youth hold a deepening session during a ‘Spiritual Enrichment Conference’ August 11-12 at St. David, Arizona. The conference was sponsored by the District Teaching Committee of Southern Arizona.
Arizona Conference Deepens 50 Youth[edit]
St. David, Arizona, was the site August 11-12 of a “Spiritual Enrichment Conference” sponsored by the District Teaching Committee of Southern Arizona.
The more than 50 youth who attended the conference were joined by 30 adults and children from Northern and Southern Arizona, the Navajo-Hopi District, Southern New Mexico, and Southern California.
THE CONFERENCE utilized the “Touchstone Weekend” concept developed by the National Youth Committee. These weekends are set up for deepening, social and recreational activities.
Deepening included presentations on subjects from “How to Be a Bahá’í in a non-Bahá’í Society” to “The Role of Youth in the Seven Year Plan.”
Speakers included Auxiliary Board member Stephen Birkland; Howard Lippman of Tucson, Arizona, and Danny Williams of Scottsdale, Arizona. Each talk was followed by a discussion.
Recreational activities ranged from camping and swimming to horseback riding.
In keeping with the Touchstone concept, the conference ended with an evaluation and suggestions for the next such weekend.
Following the conference, youth were encouraged to stay on Sunday for a meeting of the Cochise County Unity Council, a non-Bahá’í youth organization composed of members of high school human relations clubs.
The first Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Lafayette, Indiana, formed last December, held its Recognition Ceremony April 8. Assembly members are (seated left to right) Molly Witt, Marlene Bowyer, Joseph Bowyer, and (standing left to right) Carol F. Black, Albert E. Black, Randy Gilliland, Stephen C. Hunt, Lorene Hunt, Terry Carr.
Florida Youth Conference Set[edit]
Jacksonville Beach has been chosen as the site for the next winter Bahá’í Youth Conference in Florida.
The conference will take place December 21-23. Among the guest speakers will be National Spiritual Assembly member Soo Fouts of Atlantic Beach, Florida.
The conference theme is the Seven Year Plan. Other subjects to be discussed include Bahá’í history, unity, and the Bahá’í perspective of dating and marriage.
Swimming, dancing and other activities are planned. The tentative conference cost is $25 (not including meals).
For more information, please contact Smokey Ferguson, 659 Amberjack Lane, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233, or phone 904-246-1467.
[Page 6]
Education Representatives from 11 Local Spiritual Assemblies in Indiana gathered September 8 in Greenfield to plan the children’s program at the Indiana District Convention and to map an ongoing program designed to meet the needs of youth and children on a district-wide level. The district-wide collaboration stems from a recent education project conducted in Indiana by the National Education Committee, which has begun a similar project in Michigan and plans to introduce it shortly into other states throughout the country. Among the events planned in Indiana is a district Youth Retreat Weekend sometime in November.
Believers in Chicago Hear of Tragedies[edit]
The National Spiritual Assembly hosted a meeting September 17 at the Palmer House in Chicago to explain to Bahá’ís in that area the import of a number of grave and momentous recent events that have shaken the Bahá’í world.
The gathering, attended by more than 500 believers, was blessed by the presence of the Hand of the Cause of God Zikrullah Khadem and Continental Counsellor Edna True.
ALSO ATTENDING were the secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly, Glenford E. Mitchell, and several Auxiliary Board members and their assistants.
Mr. Mitchell opened the solemn meeting by reading a message from the Universal House of Justice that confirmed news of the brutal murder in Uganda of the Hand of the Cause of God Enoch Olinga, Mrs. Olinga and three of their children.
“A memorial service for the Olingas will be held Saturday, October 13, at the House of Worship,” said Mr. Mitchell. “Perhaps at that time we will know what to say about this.”
Mr. Khadem, referring to the agitation caused by such a senseless act, said, “Only Bahá’u’lláh can calm us.”
He then spoke eloquently of the need for sacrifice in the path of God, mentioning others who had given their lives for Him: Ishmael, Jesus, the Báb, the Purest Branch. Perhaps, he said, Mr. Olinga’s life was a sacrifice that would awaken the African continent to the Word of God.
Speaking first in English, then in Persian, Mr. Khadem referred to the destruction of the House of the Báb in Shiraz.
Bahá’ís should not become involved in politics, he said, but if a wrong has been suffered, the friends can appeal to the authorities for redress.
If justice is done, he said, that is good; if not, we should leave it to Almighty God and turn to Bahá’u’lláh.
Mr. Mitchell re-emphasized the importance of remaining non-political, meanwhile reminding the friends of their right and obligation to appeal for justice in a dignified manner.
HE WARNED against giving credence to rumors or hearsay. Rather, we should wait for confirmed information from the National Bahá’í Office.
“And please remember,” he said, “that we are in a period of rapid change. The advice from the National Spiritual Assembly may also change quite rapidly.
“So if we say ‘go’ today and ‘don’t go’ tomorrow, it doesn’t mean we’ve gone crazy—it only means the situation has changed.”
Miss True and Auxiliary Board member D. Thelma Jackson spoke of the importance of deepening and “living the life” during the coming years of tests—tests that are a blessing from Bahá’u’lláh, enabling us to develop the spiritual strength and character necessary to attract others to His Cause.
The Hand of the Cause of God Zikrullah Khadem addresses the meeting of Bahá’ís at the Palmer House in Chicago.
Bahá’ís in ‘Peace Day’ Panel[edit]
Representatives of six religions including the Bahá’í Faith participated April 22 in a World Peace Day panel discussion co-sponsored by the Tri-State Media Committee (composed of Bahá’ís from South Point, Ohio; Ashland, Kentucky; and Huntington and Cabell County, West Virginia) and the Rev. Ray Woodruff, a Congregationalist minister.
The panel discussion, attended by about 30 people including 10 Bahá’ís, was so well received that it led to a 1½-hour broadcast on the public television program, “Religious Pathways to Human Welfare,” that was aired on May 22, the anniversary of the Declaration of the Báb.
Participating with the Bahá’ís in the panel discussion and television program were representatives of the Hindu, Muslim, Jewish, Catholic and Protestant faiths.
As a result of these events, six seekers have attended Bahá’í firesides in the area; four college students from Nigeria, and a professor of political science and Islamic studies and his wife.
Workers Needed At National Center[edit]
The Bahá’í National Center needs competent workers to fill several key vacancies. Professionals are needed now to serve in the Publishing Trust, National Education Committee, National Teaching Committee, maintenance department and Secretariat.
You are urged to prayerfully consider whether you can relocate to the Chicago area to be of service during the Seven Year Plan.
A more complete listing of jobs and specific skills needed is listed in this month’s Classified Ads section.
To discuss current openings at the National Center, please contact the Personnel Office by writing to 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-256-4400.
The Hand of the Cause of God Enoch Olinga (center) chats with some of the friends during one of his visits to the U.S. Mr. Olinga, his wife and three of their children were murdered September 16 in Kampala, Uganda.
Enoch Olinga Slain[edit]
Continued From Page 1
scale enrollments there in 1970.
Fluent in six languages, Mr. Olinga was an economist and author of several books, the most important of which is Social and Economic Problems—Their Solution.
He represented the Universal House of Justice on numerous occasions, such as the Bahá’í National Conventions in the Dominican Republic and Cuba in 1961, and in later years in Burundi/Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, Liberia, The Gambia and at the first Bahá’í Oceanic Conference in Palermo, Sicily, in 1968.
During the course of his travels, Mr. Olinga met many heads of state including President Tubman of Liberia, President Kenyatta of Kenya, President Shazar of Israel, and President Ahidjo of the Cameroon Republic.
In 1970 he visited several countries in Central and South America, and was warmly greeted by the Premier of Belize, the Governor of the Panama Canal Zone, and His Excellency Demetrio Lacas, then President of the Republic of Panama.
A memorial service for Mr. Olinga and his family was held Saturday, October 13, at the Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette.
[Page 7]
Letters to the Editor
Enoch Olinga: The Victories Are Still His![edit]
Dear Bahá’í Friends:
The news of the martyrdom of the Hand of the Cause of God Enoch Olinga and members of his family in Uganda has burst upon a Bahá’í world already reeling under the impact of a series of world-shaking events that is moving human society inexorably and ever more swiftly through the purifying cataclysm to the establishment of God’s Kingdom on earth.
As the heart of every Bahá’í is saddened by this terrible news, so must the soul of every true believer be strengthened and his life rededicated to the service of God’s mighty Plan.
There is a natural tendency on the part of society, when faced with opposition or travail, to call forth a champion to engage and defeat the antagonistic forces.
Generations of American Bahá’ís have been heard at virtually every National Convention, and in assemblies, committees and conferences throughout the country, petitioning the National Spiritual Assembly to urge the Universal House of Justice to send us Enoch Olinga, so that he might inspire and lead us to monumental teaching victories.
Now our petition has been granted. Now Enoch Olinga has been freed from the restraints of time and place, and, newly leagued with his celestial cohorts, stands ready to rush to the aid of anyone who would teach and serve the Cause for which he expended his life.
How clear it becomes, then, that his work is our work, that each of us is the champion called forth in this day to the rescue of the human race.
The work is ours: the victories will still be his!
Pasadena, California
Dear Bahá’í Friends:
In consideration of the “urgent needs of the hour,” a fine job was done in your August issue in describing the usage of the four Bahá’í Funds and calling to our attention the sacred obligation and individual privilege of contributing to each of them.
However, there may be reasons (considered legitimate by many of the believers) why all four Funds are not remembered on a regular basis.
1. ALTHOUGH sending contributions directly to the International Fund is undoubtedly a source of special bounty (plugging into the “nerve center” of our beloved Faith), perhaps some of the friends choose to forego this intangible reward in preference to receiving a tax deduction.
2. The amount of the contribution may be considered too small to warrant the necessary expense involved for postage and envelopes (to send and for the receipt of acknowledgement).
3. Making out four checks and addressing four envelopes on a monthly basis may be too much of a chore for many (even though well-intentioned) in today’s fast-paced world.
4. The different addresses for each Fund may not be memorized (even by older believers), and not readily available at one’s finger-tips.
Fortunately, there is a remedy for the above situations that, until recently, was unknown even to our local treasurer and that may prove helpful not only to other treasurers, but to individuals as well.
ON THE RETURN receipt provided by the National Treasurer’s Office, or on any slip of paper, simply earmark the amount you desire to contribute to each of the Funds (omitting the local Fund, of course) and write out one check for the total amount. For example:
- International....$xx.xx
- Continental.....xx.xx
- National......xx.xx
- Total Enclosed...$xx.xx
Thus, one check, one envelope, one postage stamp and one address! And all (the total amount) tax-deductible!
Many contributions are handled this way each month by the National Treasurer’s Office as a service to the friends, and the use of such a method is welcomed.
If this service was made known, in addition to providing economy and convenience for the donor, it would perhaps result in a much healthier growth in contributions to each of the Funds, which is especially needed in this time of financial crisis.
Rhinelander, Wisconsin
We are delighted that the friends are seeking ways to contribute to the Funds while economizing at the same time. This letter raises some very important concerns to which a few points of clarification should be added:
1. A contribution to the Bahá’í International Fund is only tax-deductible if the donor contributes to the Bahá’í National Fund and expresses a “hope, wish or desire” that such money be used for the International Fund. (See Guidelines for Local Spiritual Assemblies, p. 149) Merely putting the name “International Fund” on the return receipt does not satisfy this IRS requirement.
2. Addresses for the Funds are frequently printed in The American Bahá’í and are found on a small green card, “The Individual Believer and the Bahá’í Fund.” This card, available through local communities or the Office of the Treasurer, is wallet-sized and can be placed conveniently in one’s wallet, checkbook, or purse for easy reference.
3. Regularity in giving to the Local and National Funds has been defined by the National Spiritual Assembly as every Bahá’í month. In supporting the International and Continental Funds we are obliged to contribute regularly but no set frequency has been established.
The National Spiritual Assembly encourages the believers to use the Bahá’í calendar as a guide when contributing to the Fund; however, the principles governing the Fund leave decisions about the nature, frequency and purpose of one’s contributions entirely up to the individual.
4. While we are enjoined to practice economy and it is an essential feature of the new Seven Year Plan, we do not want to stifle the believers’ spiritual relationship to the Divine Institution of the Fund with rigid, burdensome, or complicated methods of contributing. Establishing a relationship with the Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh through contributing to the Funds is an act that cannot be measured by a material standard.
There is no simple answer to the logistics of contributing to the Funds. The only enduring answer will be to grow so strong in our love for the Fund that no material obstacle will be allowed to intervene between us and our expression of love for our Faith.—Office of the Treasurer
Dear Bahá’í Friends:
News of the razing of the House of the Báb calls to mind ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s descriptions in Some Answered Questions and Paris Talks of the meaning of Christ’s sacrifice—how, like a seed, He sacrificed His physical form so that His Cause could come to flower.
Similarly, the physical symbol of the inauguration of the Cause of the Báb has now been sacrificed, releasing the spiritual energies that had been focused there so that they might flourish throughout the world.
May we all attempt to nurture this new measure of spirit in our hearts and lives.
Williamsport, Pennsylvania
Dear Bahá’í Friends:
I was amazed and taken aback by the review (August 1979) of Dr. Allan Ward’s new book, 239 Days.
I have read kinder and more tactful reviews in professional journals about books a reviewer disliked. I was shocked to see this review published in The American Bahá’í.
SURELY, criticism of books and other materials is needed, both positive and negative—but I believe that negative criticism should always be constructive.
For example, instead of calling the lack of an index a “regrettable omission,” a suggestion could have been made to add an index in future editions, or perhaps to publish a supplement with an index.
I have not yet read Dr. Ward’s book, so I have no opinion of it; however, I feel that no matter how inadequate a book may be, once it is published and there is no turning back, some good must come of it.
Bahá’ís are told to look for the good and overlook the bad. I do not know whether this reviewer is a Bahá’í, but he seemed to be knowledgeable about the Faith if not about this particular principle.
I DO NOT feel that Dr. Ward should have been publicly criticized to the point of what I would imagine was embarrassment in front of the entire American Bahá’í community. I cannot imagine ‘Abdu’l-Bahá having handled the situation in this manner.
Usually, I have no qualms about using The American Bahá’í as a teaching tool to show non-Bahá’ís how the Faith works. This issue, however, is going to stay in my files.
Sun Prairie, Wisconsin
Dear Bahá’í Friends:
This is the International Year of the Child. This is the year of the red, white, yellow and black.
But how deep do these colors go? Do they penetrate the minds and souls of men? I ask you: When a child cries out in pain, do you see his color and the years of racism, or do you merely see a child who needs a helping hand?
ONE YEAR has been specially set aside to observe “The Year of the Child.” But in reality, every year should be dedicated to helping our children.
The children of today are the society of tomorrow. We, the people of the world, can and should give the builders of tomorrow the tools of spirituality, unity and education needed to build a better world for themselves than we have built for them.
I would like to see each person in the world love a child in this one year the way a Bahá’í loves all children every day. That would be the greatest achievement in the history of mankind.
Atlantic Beach, Florida
Dear Bahá’í Friends:
Different strokes for different folks, I suppose.
While Sidney Morrison’s critique of 239 Days is thoughtful and instructive, it seems to me that he wants Dr. Allan Ward’s wonderful book to be something it does not pretend to be—that is, a scholarly and exhaustive treatise that would require several volumes.
HOW OFTEN do we miss the beauty of a person, an experience, or a work of art because it is not what we want it to be, not what we had expected.
I urge everyone to read Dr. Ward’s book and “see it with their own eyes.”
I found the book to be delightful reading, a breezy and refreshing treasury of events and moments to be savored—not an “outline,” but a touching and instructive collage, an impressionistic word-painting of the Love of God in our midst.
I believe we owe Dr. Ward a debt of gratitude for his book. If the purpose of a book is to move us to laughter or tears, to open our minds and hearts to a deeper meaning of life, and to inspire us to a greater love, then 239 Days has indeed fulfilled its purpose for this reader.
Manheim, Pennsylvania
Thousands of people saw this Bahá’í float entitled ‘Love That Child’ in the annual Fourth of July parade this year in Greeley, Colorado. Bahá’ís from Greeley, Fort Collins, Fort Morgan and Larimer County joined together in preparing the float for this teaching/proclamation event.
Mr. Kavelin’s Talk Sparks Fund Drive In San Francisco[edit]
The Spiritual Assembly of San Francisco, following a meeting July 21 at which more than a thousand Bahá’ís in Northern California heard H. Borrah Kavelin, a member of the Universal House of Justice, speak on the present crisis in Iran, agreed to institute a special commitment card for pledges of funds to the World Centre.
Each member of the San Francisco Bahá’í community is to receive a copy of the card with a letter of explanation. As cards are returned, they will be noted by the treasurer and a projected annual flow of funds to the World Centre reported to the Universal House of Justice.
Each believer who returns a commitment card will be given a special pledge schedule. The Assembly has printed distinctive receipts to be returned to contributors for this sacrificial effort.
In Connecticut, a Dream of Adoption Ends[edit]
On March 16, 1979, a baby boy was born in Rockville, Connecticut, and abandoned by his mother.
Five days later, the state Department of Child and Youth Services (DCYS) placed the child in a foster home with Michael and Wendy Lusa, a Bahá’í couple who live in nearby Vernon.
THE LUSAS named the child Jamal, an Arabic word that means “beauty,” and dreamed of adopting him.
Four months later, those dreams were irreparably shattered when a Superior Court judge ordered the Lusas to surrender the child to the DCYS.
The reason: Jamal is black; the Lusas are white.
The Lusas, whose desire to adopt a minority child sprang from a deep love for all children and a firm belief in the unity of mankind, sadly ended their two-year struggle to do so.
They were, they said, shocked and disillusioned by their experience in Connecticut courts.
THE FIRST shock actually came in December 1978 when Kristina Backhaus, a DCYS social worker, said to the Lusas, “Didn’t they tell you at the study classes that black children can only be adopted by black families? It’s state policy.”
The Lusas had begun adoption proceedings in July 1977. At the orientation classes the state requires for prospective adoptive parents, they found that almost all the children in the state’s hard-to-place books were black. This reinforced their desire to adopt a black child.
At the meeting with Ms. Backhaus, Mrs. Lusa, who runs a state-licensed day care center in her home, explained that they loved children and could provide a secure home for a child who really needed one. She also tried to explain the couple’s religious motivation.
Cathy Janes, a DCYS case worker who is familiar with the Faith, had urged the Lusas to explain clearly in their application for adoption their belief in equality, and to explain it further to their assigned social worker as an assurance that they would be able to rear a minority child as their own.
LATER, IN court, the state would contend that the Lusas’ religious motivation was improper, that they wished only to adopt the child as a “symbol” to make some religious statement.
During their application interview in January 1979, the Lusas were reminded by Ms. Backhaus of the state’s policy against interracial adoption.
There was, she said, a strong alliance of black social workers in Connecticut who object strenuously to black children being placed anywhere but in black homes.
According to Linda Cotter, past president of the Open Door Society, an organization of adoptive parents of minority and handicapped children, “The state (Connecticut) was approving interracial adoptions with great frequency until about nine months ago.”
MRS. COTTER, a mother of four children, three of whom are adopted—a Korean, a Vietnamese-American, and a Caucasian-American Indian—says the black social workers argue that white families cannot teach black children survival skills, and will deprive them of the “black experience.”
Such objections to interracial adoption date back at least to 1972 when a national conference of black social workers issued a militant statement, saying such adoptions were not based on “an altruistic human concern for black children,” and in fact reflected “the assignment of chattel status to black people.”
The black social workers concluded that enough black couples willing to adopt black children could be found if they were sought out by adoption agencies.
Yet the Lusas were told during their application interview that the DCYS often had to search for minority families in other states because there weren’t enough minority families in Connecticut to adopt minority children.
ON MANY occasions, said Ms. Backhaus, minority children were simply left in foster homes or kept in institutions for many years.
At the close of the interview, the Lusas were cautioned to re-think their plans to adopt a black child. Later, they were to learn that their application for adoption was never completed by the DCYS.
Last March, the Lusas heard about a Puerto Rican girl who was pregnant and desperately needed a place to stay.
They decided to open their home to her, and the DCYS sent George Lincoln, a social worker, to conduct a temporary foster care interview.
Mr. Lincoln was impressed by the Lusas’ home, family and Bahá’í beliefs, and the girl was placed with them the following day.
SAYING THAT he was unaware of any state policy prohibiting interracial adoptions, Mr. Lincoln promised to look into the matter for them.
On March 20, while the Lusas were preparing for that evening’s Naw-Rúz celebration, Mr. Lincoln phoned with remarkable news.
A black child had been born four days earlier, he said, and the parents were putting it up for adoption. Knowing of the Lusas’ great desire to adopt a minority child, he said he would try to arrange the adoption.
The Lusas, overjoyed, chose a name for the child—Jamal Reuben—then called their friends to share the good news and ask for prayers.
SHORTLY afterward, Mr. Lincoln phoned again. This time, the news was shocking. The DCYS, he said, would not allow them to adopt Jamal because he is black, and they are white.
Naw-Rúz afternoon brought another phone call from Mr. Lincoln.
The DCYS, he explained, was unable to find a black home, either foster or adoptive, for Jamal. Would the Lusas consider taking him temporarily as foster parents?
Mr. Lincoln assured them he would recommend that they be considered as adoptive parents. The Lusas agreed to become Jamal’s foster parents, and within an hour he was in their home.
The next two months were relatively calm. Although Jamal’s assigned case worker, Tina Murphy, again re-stated the DCYS policy against interracial adoption, the Lusas were encouraged.
THEY HAD learned that if a foster family keeps a child for more than 90 days, it is given first consideration for adoption.
That knowledge, and further conversations with Mr. Lincoln, led them to believe that soon the black child they were caring for and had come to love would be their own.
There was even greater cause for joy. Mrs. Lusa, who had been told that for medical reasons she might not be able to have more children of her own, was pregnant.
In court, the state would contend that since the Lusas had two children, with another on the way, Jamal should be given to a black family that did not and could not have children of its own.
ON MAY 30, the Lusas received another shock from the DCYS. Ms. Murphy phoned to say that Jamal’s natural parents would terminate their rights to him in court the next day.
The agency, she said, was looking for a nice black home in which to place Jamal.
“He already has a nice white home,” said Mrs. Lusa.
The social worker said she was sure the Lusas loved the child, and there was no doubt of their qualifications as adoptive parents. She simply felt that black children should be placed with black families.
After much prayerful consideration, the Lusas filed suit June 7 against the state of Connecticut to try to keep the child they loved and change what they considered to be a racist policy.
THE LUSAS were unprepared, however, for the charges leveled by the state during the 12-day trial.
The state contended that the Lusas were “too rigid” in their determination to adopt only healthy black babies (although the Lusas said they were willing to adopt children of any race, even those who were physically or mentally handicapped).
The state questioned the couple’s religious motivation, and contended that Mr. Lusa wasn’t really interested in adopting a child, even though he had taken an additional job as a maintenance man to help pay the legal fees of the trial.
Mrs. Lusa’s pregnancy, said the state, should automatically bar her from adopting, even though she was unaware of it when Jamal was placed with the family.
Wendy Lusa of Vernon, Connecticut, with Jamal Reuben, the black child she and her husband, Michael, fought an unsuccessful court battle to adopt. (Photo by Michael Lennahan)
George and Carolyn Galinkin of Bozeman, Montana, and their children gather August 12 to welcome their newly-adopted son, Carlos, to the family.
In Montana, ‘Garden’ Blooms[edit]
While Wendy and Michael Lusa were fighting, and losing, a court battle in Connecticut to adopt a black child, George and Carolyn Galinkin of Bozeman, Montana, were preparing to welcome to their growing family its sixth adopted child—Carlos Rodriguez-Galinkin.
The Galinkins have one child of their own, 17-year-old Leila. Of the others, only one, 8-year-old Badí, is white.
THE REST of the Galinkin family represents a flower garden of humanity: Mexican, black, American Indian.
Besides Carlos, the newest member, and Badi there are Randall, 15; Lillian, 12; Howard, 10, and 2-year-old Shirin.
Having a racially mixed family hasn’t caused any great problems, say the Galinkins.
Of more concern are the logistics involved in planning for so many family members.
The Galinkins have nine for dinner each night, which calls for some ingenuity.
“WE BUY in large quantities,” says Mrs. Galinkin. “We purchase 100 pounds of sugar and $36 worth of peanut butter at a time in six-pound cans. At a typical dinner we’ll eat three pounds of hamburger, or two whole chickens.”
Laundry also presents a challenge. Mrs. Galinkin estimates she does about 15 loads of it each week.
To prepare for the exodus to school this fall, Mr. Galinkin bought 12 dozen pencils and six dozen ball point pens, four reams of lined paper, and 36 pads of unlined paper. He hopes they’ll last all year.
The Galinkins feel that any trouble and expense they go to for the children is more than worth it.
“People can relate to one another’s inner human qualities,” says Mr. Galinkin. “We’re all part of one world and one family.”
[Page 9]
The Hands of the Cause Zikrullah Khadem (left photo) and William Sears (right photo) were among those who addressed the 19th annual Green Lake Bahá’í Conference held September 14-16.
Green Lake Conference Blends Drama, Nostalgia[edit]
The final moments of the 19th annual Green Lake Bahá’í Conference, held September 14-16 at the American Baptist Assembly in Green Lake, Wisconsin, provided the sort of drama that would send the record-breaking crowd, estimated to be well above the previous high of 1,200, home with an unforgettable example of the strength and unity that are manifested whenever true believers in the Cause of God are beset by tribulations.
Those at the Conference were visibly moved when the Hand of the Cause of God Zikrullah Khadem read the following cable from the Universal House of Justice:
“HIGHLY gratified news just received all Bahá’í prisoners Baghdad released as part general amnesty.”
Mr. Khadem then brought to the stage several members of the families of those released prisoners to share their feelings. The daughter of one of the oldest Bahá’ís in the prison spoke eloquently of her father’s courage:
“The believers in the jail, they were most steadfast, most happy, most rejoicing,” she said.
“My youngest brother, my three sisters, they were most happy. My brother used to say, ‘This is my wedding.’ And I would say, ‘I am preparing a bride for you. You come here.’
“YOU KNOW, by symbols, I write to him. He says, ‘Don’t worry. I am at my wedding. I am in the presence of the Blessed Beauty. What more do you want than that?’
“He used to write the most moving poems in those days in prison. He said, ‘These are the most glorious days for me. I wanted to go to jail. I was praying for these days, for these tests and hardships.’
“So they spent their days in jail, all the believers, with utmost joy. And the result is that now the Faith has gained the most integrity and power and might and glory because the whole nation now respects them.
“For the first time in history, the Faith in that country became recognized and respected and glorified.
“WE WERE always insulted, humiliated. They used to accuse us of being spies. We are this, they would say, we are that. Now, they have come to apologize.
“The same authorities who put the Bahá’ís in jail, these same people, these same hands who wrote so many false things about the Bahá’ís, they came, they apologized.
“And when they released them, they said that all those should be released except the destructives, the insincere, the spies.
“So the Bahá’ís were released ... with a glorious reputation, respected by the whole nation. Never again will anyone dare to make false accusations against the Bahá’í Faith or the believers in Iraq.”
THE UNITY exemplified by the believers in Iraq was the dominating theme at the annual weekend conference in Green Lake.
Since 19 years has a special significance in the Faith, comprising a “Vahid,” or “unity,” it was decided that this year’s gathering would pay tribute to the first Green Lake Bahá’í Conference held October 7-9, 1960.
Over the years, the Hand of the Cause Mr. Khadem and the Hand of the Cause William Sears have contributed immeasurably to the growth of the conference. And in this joyous 19th anniversary year, both were present once more to offer their assurances, assistance and inspiration.
People traveled as far as 10,000 miles to be together at this year’s conference. Nearly half of them arrived in time for the Friday evening dedication to Bahíyyih Khánum, the “Greatest Holy Leaf,” many having driven to the site following a full day’s work.
AUXILIARY Board member Stephen Birkland addressed the conference on behalf of the Continental Board of Counsellors for North America.
Offering support to those who are struggling to understand the meaning of the tests and difficulties affecting Bahá’ís in many parts of the world, Mr. Birkland quoted the beloved Guardian, Shoghi Effendi:
“The history of our Faith, if read aright, can be said to resolve itself into a series of pulsations of alternating crises and triumphs, leading it ever nearer to its divinely appointed destiny.”
Auxiliary Board member Javidukht Khadem also was present. A plane flight that would have taken her to St. Louis, where she was scheduled to speak, was canceled. Unable to arrange another flight, she was able to address the conference again—a special bounty, since she also attended the first conference in 1960.
OTHER speakers included National Spiritual Assembly members Dorothy W. Nelson and Daniel C. Jordan; Marguerite Sears; Nancy Jordan; Beth McKenty; Dr. Khalil Khavari; Sue Khavari; Stephen C. Jackson, assistant to the National Treasurer, and Kurt Hein of the Treasurer’s Office staff.
An audio visual program about the Bahá’í World Centre was presented by Ethel and Lacy Crawford who have been serving in Haifa for more than a decade.
While the regular sessions were being held, there were separate classes for children ages 3 to 11, plus a complete cooperative nursery. Co-program directors Bud and Vicki Polk were in charge.
An additional class had to be added when an unprecedented number of children created an “overflow” situation. Sessions for youth were held in the building that housed the entire conference in 1960.
A SPECIAL plaque was presented to the staff of the American Baptist Assembly in appreciation of their 19 years of service to the Green Lake Conference.
Annalean Schwandes, who with her husband Elmer was the first registrar, spoke warmly of that 1960 gathering:
“It was such an exciting thing. The idea of Green Lake just happened. It was so adventurous, you know, to secure these grounds and to get people to come. We were nervous, really nervous. I can remember when the first letters of registration came to our home. Well, it was such a joy!”
Nancy Jordan, who worked with her husband to re-create a course on family life that had been presented at the first conference, said:
“COMING BACK to Green Lake is a great bounty. It has been such an important part of Dan’s life and mine. Each year we look at the news and say, ‘Good heavens, look at the number of people gathering together at Green Lake. How wonderful it is!’ ”
Mr. Khadem said we are entering a “second unity” at Green Lake, and pointed out that the Guardian said all Bahá’í conferences should reflect the spirit of the historic conference at Badasht.
“The conference of Badasht,” he said, “was in a sense the first conference in the Bahá’í Faith, or I should say the first summer school, held in the Presence of Bahá’u’lláh Himself—Bahá’u’lláh, Quddús, Ṭáhirih. That was the beginning of the Faith.
“The spirit of that conference is here with all of us,” said Mr. Khadem. “If we leave with that spirit, we can change the whole of America. There is no doubt about it.”
MR. SEARS, emphasizing that the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh offer the only hope for a foundering and leaderless world, said, “Bahá’u’lláh makes it clear that everything in our lives depends for its value and usefulness on one thing—does it make us a better Bahá’í? A better human being?
“There is no mistake,” he said, “that anyone who centers his hopes on the world doesn’t have a real productive purpose in life, and inevitably will be prone to despair, and to self-destruction in one form or another—drugs, alcohol, crime, violence, or pointless, pleasureless, promiscuous sex.
“Excesses of all kinds, leading only to sorrow, to unhappiness and emptiness. Leaving one dead to the reality, the sweetness, the inner joy of faith and belief, and hating himself as he seeks frantically everywhere in the world, in vain, to escape his true spiritual destiny.
“IF, BELOVED friends, we should stumble from time to time, never mind,” Mr. Sears concluded. “Get up and try again. Even birds don’t fly well the first time, and when you’re using heavenly feathers and heavenly wings it’s even harder.
“But if we do use them, if we persevere, they will take us to victory even over ourselves. The Guardian said the mere act of arising brings blessings and confirmations from on high.”
Other highlights of the inspiration-filled conference included “Keys to Harmony,” first created and performed by Dr. Daniel Jordan at the first Green Lake conference; an original musical written and performed especially for the conference by the New World Construction Company from Milwaukee; and musical entertainment Friday evening by a group from Iowa, “A Brand New Day.”
In a closing statement, Mr. Khadem, who gave the closing address at the first Green Lake Conference, said: “Friends, let us go from here and leave everything for Bahá’u’lláh to decide for us, to plan for us. That is the best way.”
As always, there was plenty of good entertainment at the Green Lake Bahá’í Conference in Wisconsin.
Highlights of 1979 Special Visit Programs[edit]
The 1979 Special Visit programs drew 114 believers from all parts of the U.S. to the Bahá’í National Center in Wilmette, Illinois, to learn first-hand how the National Spiritual Assembly conducts its daily affairs. On these two pages, in capsule form, is a pictorial essay of some of the highlights from this summer’s Special Visit programs.
The Bahá’í House of Worship Activities Committee has already initiated planning for the 1980 programs. One major addition next year will be a single program designed for family participation. It will include classes for children patterned after those that are held for adults.
More information on the Special Visit programs for 1980 will appear in the April 1980 issue of The American Bahá’í and also will be reported on at a Nineteen Day Feast.
Perhaps the best way to describe what a Special Visit program is can be found in the following statements from those who recently attended:
•
“The day I arrived the first thing I saw as we came around the corner of Sheridan Road and Linden Avenue was the dome of the House of Worship towering above the trees. It was breathtakingly beautiful.
“After I removed myself and my bags from the taxi, I turned to walk up the stairs and was awed to the point of tears. I was here! The magnificence of this place was so overpowering I just stood there and looked.
“I was able, after a little time, to move up the walkway toward the Foundation Hall steps. I stopped, looking up several more times. Soon I heard a woman’s voice behind me asking if I was a ‘special visitor.’ I replied, ‘Yes.’ And she said, ‘Alláh’u’Abhá,’ and put her arm across my shoulders. I answered, ‘Alláh’u’Abhá!’
“She told me she had been watching me and was overcome to tears. We embraced. I was home.”
•
“The program was wonderful! Varied, interesting and inspiring. It was a special occasion to meet individuals on the National Spiritual Assembly as well as their assistants, and to listen to their words of guidance. It brought the National Center and its many tasks and responsibilities into clear terms.”
•
“It has given me a much broader concept of the National Center and of Bahá’í Administration in general. I’ve never lived in an Assembly area, and the practical workings of an Assembly have been somewhat a mystery to me.
“I thought the National Center was composed of the Treasurer’s Office, the National Teaching Committee, and the Publishing Trust, and was far too busy to be concerned with the individual! I am amazed by all the committees and all the people and delighted by the warmth and hospitality and concern shown toward each of us who attended the program by the staff at National.
“I feel so much more a part of the Administration now, and so much closer to all of you. I feel that the National Center really does want our suggestions, and that we individuals, especially those of us who are isolated or in small Groups, won’t be pushed aside in a bureaucratic shuffle. Thank you for a truly memorable experience.”
•
“The history of the Temple was a climactic part of the program. It heightened my awareness as it increased my understanding. The visit to the Archives was a most profound experience.”
•
“When my daughter got up to pray at the devotions in the House of Worship, all I could think of was ‘bring up another to know Me and to worship Me,’ and I give my thanks to God for being able to fulfill that.”
•
“It has given me a chance to get together with Bahá’ís from all over the country and just have a good time. I only wish I could stay here forever, because I’ll miss all the love and peace here when I leave; and I’m leaving with tears because I don’t want to leave.”
Thursday, 8:15 p.m.: Continental Counsellor Edna True relates stories of the early years of the Faith.
Friday, 9:30 a.m.: Glenford E. Mitchell, secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly, speaks on ‘Bahá’í Administration.’
Friday, 2:15 p.m.: A visit to the lovely Bahá’í Home in Wilmette.
Friday, 2:45 p.m.: Touring the Bahá’í Publishing Trust where Bahá’í books and other materials are produced.
Friday, 4:30 p.m.: Visitors pose in front of the spacious new Bahá’í Administrative Office Building in Evanston.
Saturday, 10:45 p.m.: Dr. Magdalene Carney, assistant secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly, discusses ‘The Spirit of Teaching.’
Saturday, 3 p.m.: Strolling by the lakefront near the Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds.
SPECIAL VISIT PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
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THE BAHÁ’Í HOME[edit]
Caring, Service Set Tone[edit]
The Bahá’í Home in Wilmette rings with music as one-time vaudevillian Jerry Sullivan goes to work at the piano.
(This is the second in a two-part series by staff writer Scott Stuart on the Bahá’í Home in Wilmette, Illinois.)
•
For the elderly, the transition from the dignified independence of their own home to the stigma of dependence in a nursing home can be deeply depressing.
Many who need professional care avoid the reality as long as possible, hanging on at home until the very last.
“ANYONE with any sense would rather be in his own home,” says Marie Gilbert, a resident at the Bahá’í Home since 1976. “But if you get to where you can’t take care of your home, you have to move. I need care, and here at the Home I get the care I need.”
Beverly Walker, program director at the Bahá’í Home, explains that the Home is not a medical center and doesn’t provide the kind of services found in nursing homes. It gives residents personal, rather than professional, care.
Mrs. Gilbert, who once had to leave the Bahá’í Home and enter a nursing home when she had trouble walking, says there is no comparison between the two.
“I simply didn’t like it (the nursing home),” she says. “The Bahá’í Home is a lovely place, and I’m so happy to be back. I hope I never have to leave again.”
THE NEEDS of the elderly have become more apparent as their numbers have grown. It is estimated that the number of people in this country age 65 or older will reach 20 million by the end of this century.
In a society such as ours, with its emphasis on youth, the elderly can be made to feel useless and unwanted. Next to teen-agers, the suicide rate is highest among the elderly.
“If you repeat something often enough,” says Mrs. Walker, “such as, ‘the elderly are sick, senile, dull, useless,’ people begin to believe it. It’s like the big lie. And once the elderly themselves begin to believe it, they’re in big trouble.”
She sees the Bahá’í Home as a place where older people can regain and maintain the self-esteem to which they are entitled.
SOPHIE Loeding, the Home’s only resident Bahá’í, has lived there for 14 years. For 27 years—until she was 78—Miss Loeding worked at the Bahá’í National Center, serving most of that time as secretary to the secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly.
“You may not realize how old I am,” she says, her eyes sparkling. “I’m 89.”
Miss Loeding feels there is nothing to compare with the Bahá’í Home because it was founded to be of service to the community.
Its cleanliness, the attitude of the staff, the many planned activities—all of these things, she says, make a profound difference in the comfort and well-being of the residents.
SHE POINTS out, however, that while the Home tries to help residents adjust to the problems of old age, the degree of receptivity varies with the individual.
“First of all,” says Miss Loeding, “you must accept the fact that while you may, God willing, retain your mental faculties, your body—various parts of it—wears out.”
As one grows older, she says, vision and hearing aren’t as keen; bones creak; and if there isn’t an adequate supply of blood to the brain, senility sets in.
“You just have to make up your mind to adjust to these things,” she says. “Accept it and go on.”
THE KEY TO happiness in old age, says Miss Loeding, lies in living within one’s limitations while using physical and mental abilities to their utmost.
She has a large number of interests, and stays active in the Faith through membership on the Devotions Committee at the Bahá’í House of Worship where she produces a program a month for the Sunday worship services.
Mrs. Walker, through her own continuing education, has developed a number of innovative programs at the Home. Exercising, she says, is gaining in popularity among the elderly.
“I’ve always enjoyed exercise,” says Ruth Ballard, a former mathematics professor who describes herself as an avid but rather poor sports participant. “We have exercise classes here that recognize the fact that we’re no longer teen-agers. I think they’ve been beneficial to my health.”
LIKE MANY of the Home’s residents, Mrs. Ballard decided to move there when she could no longer care for her own home.
“To tell the truth,” she says, “all my friends and relatives thought I should stay where I was, but I decided I’d rather live where I had people to talk to.”
Mrs. Ballard, who walks with a cane, suffered a broken hip recently when she fell while climbing the stairs at church.
“When I came back from the hospital,” she says, “everyone (at the Home) was so cordial and nice. I really felt like I was coming home.”
Much is done, she says, for the comfort and care of residents. They needn’t worry about marketing, or finding someone to wash windows, or any of the other things one may find hard to do while running his own home.
EVEN THOUGH residents at the Bahá’í Home are some distance from the mainstream of life, they keep in touch with current events through films, classes and discussions.
They have studied ethnic groups from Eskimos to the Inca and Aztec Indians of Central and South America, and they’ve become better acquainted with the 50 states, calendars of the world, U.S. Presidents, philosophers, artists, scientists and famous women.
Residents have seen films ranging from “The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pitman” to “Say Goodbye,” a documentary about the extinction of some 166 species of animals.
Other films have covered the history of black music in America, the world’s major religions, the Middle Ages, and the Indians of North America.
A RECENT STUDY study at the University of Wisconsin of elderly people who returned to college found that once these older people overcame their self-consciousness and lack of confidence, they scored as well on tests as incoming freshmen and sophomores, and excelled in one important area: creativity.
In light of this, Mrs. Walker’s programs at the Bahá’í Home include drama, word games, poetry and pantomime.
Jerry Sullivan, who once toured the country as a vaudeville piano player and was one of the first radio broadcasters in America when he worked at KYW in Chicago in 1922, came to the Bahá’í Home after he and his wife had suffered strokes. Mrs. Sullivan never recovered and died shortly afterward.
“I had lost my ability to play piano,” he recalls, “so I started practicing. I said to myself, ‘Listen, this thing’s not going to whip me!’”
NOW THE PIANO at the home is kept well tuned, because Mr. Sullivan plays every day.
He also writes poetry. He’ll take a phrase, perhaps from the Bible or some other book, write it down, and use it later as inspiration for a poem.
“I do enjoy myself here at the Home,” he says. “If I didn’t, they may as well bury me.”
Although activities at the Home include field trips, guest speakers, and handicrafts, nothing is mandatory. Residents are free to come and go as they please.
Bible study is popular. A book from the Old or New Testament is chosen, and with a number of translations and commentaries, is studied and discussed.
MRS. BALLARD says that after the death of a resident, there is usually a service at the Home using Bahá’í Writings and prayers.
“Few of us can get to the funerals,” she says. “I think the service is very nice, a very appropriate thing to do.” Although the Walkers believe the best way to teach the Faith at the Home is through service to the residents and community, there are weekly classes on the Faith at the residents’ request.
So far, they have studied Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era, Paris Talks, Christ and Bahá’u’lláh, and have begun studying All Things Made New.
The goal of the Home, according to Mrs. Walker, is to enable residents to be as independent as possible and to lead a full and satisfying life.
A RECENT innovation at the Home is a project in “reminiscing.” Mrs. Walker points out that once it was thought that older people who reminisced were acting senile, living in the past.
Current research, she says, indicates that reminiscing may be therapeutic. As one looks back over his life, he can understand what was accomplished, what had merit and value.
Reminiscing, she adds, can put you in touch with your life. And it’s fun. Residents at the Home have many fond memories and are eager to share them.
Jerry Sullivan, for example, has scrapbooks covering the early days of vaudeville and radio. He was in Tulsa, Oklahoma, when oil was discovered there. He recalls that he didn’t think much of it at the time.
MRS. GILBERT, who has traveled to so many countries that the only ones she can recall not having visited are India and Iran, remembers the shock of being in Vietnam during the war there.
Ida Dornbos, who came to Wilmette when it was little more than a prairie and opened a hardware store, remembers the construction of the Bahá’í House of Worship. She also remembers her good friends, Mr. and Mrs. Louis Bourgeois. Mr. Bourgeois, a French-Canadian architect, designed the House of Worship.
Like some other residents at the Home, Mrs. Dornbos says she is simply too busy to take part in many activities there.
“But I said, ‘If I have to be in a home, I want to go to the Bahá’í Home,’” she says, “because this is my neighborhood. I’ve lived here for 50 years.”
Mrs. Dornbos spends much of her time visiting friends in the neighborhood, and still attends church only a few blocks away.
“I’ve led a full and active life,” she says. “Now it’s nice to have a place like the Bahá’í Home in which to spend my last days.”
Sophie Loeding, Ida Dornbos and Marie Gilbert (left to right) enjoy one of the regular Bible Study classes at the Bahá’í Home.
[Page 13]
The Bahá’ís of St. Charles County, Missouri, celebrated the incorporation of their Spiritual Assembly with a banquet dinner July 8 that was attended by 50 people including 10 non-Bahá’ís, one of whom, Becky Hirsh, declared her belief in Bahá’u’lláh that same evening. Among the guests was St. Charles County Administrative Court Judge Peggy Coppage, the first woman to be elected a judge in St. Charles County. The featured speaker was Auxiliary Board member Ronna Santoscoy. Assembly members are (front row left to right) Marguerite Charkalis, Rick Brown, Dean Kirksey, Donald Suftko (chairman); (second row left to right) Rosalie Suftko, Linda Mobley, Ruth Zapp (secretary), and (back row left to right) Cliff Palmberg (treasurer), Jerry Zapp (vice-chairman).
New ‘Lote Tree’ Album Combines Music, History[edit]
A new Bahá’í album, The Lote Tree, has just been completed and is to be released this month by the Bahá’í Publishing Trust. ($10, stereo, catalog No. 6-35-18)
Combining their talents on this major project were the Hand of the Cause of God William Sears, and entertainers Seals & Crofts, England Dan and John Ford Coley, Walter Heath, and Danny Deardorff.
RUSSELL GARCIA served as arranger and underscoring composer. The album was produced by a team of top professionals including Louie Shelton and Joseph Bogan.
The first side includes songs and narration about the Báb, Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Shoghi Effendi, and the Universal House of Justice. The second side consists of five songs written and recorded by Bahá’ís.
The album opens with a moving narration about the Báb, written and performed by Mr. Sears and underscored by Mr. Garcia. It is followed by a hauntingly beautiful song about the Báb, written and performed by Seals & Crofts.
NEXT, Mr. Sears explains how impossible it is to sing befittingly of Bahá’u’lláh, then tells of His Station, His majesty, and His sacrifice.
The song about Bahá’u’lláh, written by Jim Seals and Jim Poggensee and performed by Seals & Crofts, portrays an early Bahá’í pilgrim who follows his Beloved from Baghdad to ‘Akká and can only catch a fleeting glimpse of His handkerchief.
The third song, “ ‘Abdu’l-Bahá”, written and performed by Walter Heath, stirringly describes the childhood and lifetime of persecution of the Master.
Mr. Sears’ narration sets the mood and helps the listener to understand the station of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.
THE FINAL song, “Shoghi Effendi”, written and performed by Mr. Heath with background by Lana Bogan and Donnie Shelton, conveys the love the Bahá’ís feel for the Guardian.
Mr. Sears is brought to tears as he narrates his own impressions and memories of Shoghi Effendi.
The side ends with a short introduction to the Universal House of Justice in which Mr. Sears links Bahá’u’lláh, the Báb, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, and Shoghi Effendi with the infallible Institution that now guides the Bahá’í world.
On the second side, England Dan and John Ford Coley sing “The Prisoner”; Seals & Crofts perform “Forever Like the Rose”; Danny Deardorff sings “The Little Kings of Earth”; and Seals & Crofts and their families perform “The Seven Valleys” and “One Planet, One People ... Please”.
THE ALBUM was produced by Prism Productions to raise money for the International Bahá’í Fund and to make an artistic contribution to the Bahá’í community.
Prism Productions is a new San Francisco-based company that plans to produce audio-visual materials for the Bahá’í world.
“The Lote Tree” is ideal for creating a Bahá’í atmosphere in one’s home. It can be used for deepenings, firesides, gifts, and radio proclamations.
A new children’s album from Prism Productions, Happy Ayyám-i-Há, is being released simultaneously. Narrated by Mr. Sears and produced by Danny and Joyce Deardorff, the album will be distributed by the Publishing Trust.
To order The Lote Tree or Happy Ayyám-i-Há for yourself or a friend, see your Bahá’í librarian or use the order form provided in the mini-catalog in this issue of The American Bahá’í.
Bounty of Support for Fund Increases in Wake of Crisis[edit]
To fulfill the newly-established plans of our National Spiritual Assembly, we need to contribute $4 million to the National Fund this year.
Because of the crisis in Iran, the major responsibility for supporting the Bahá’í International Fund now rests with the American believers. Therefore, $1 million of the National Spiritual Assembly’s current budget is earmarked as our collective contribution to the International Fund this year.
EVERY LOCAL Spiritual Assembly, Bahá’í Group, Bahá’í family, and individual will need to pray, to consult, and to offer their direct, sacrificial support to the International Fund.
At the same time, we cannot let the Local, National or Continental Funds suffer. Our increased support for the International Fund must be over and above our regular commitments to these Funds.
There are many steps we can take, individually and collectively, to meet these commitments.
We can pray for the Universal House of Justice, for the success of the Seven Year Plan, for the Iranian Bahá’ís, and for the Fund. We can also pray to God to help us find energy, time and money to offer in service to the Faith.
WE CAN consult in our communities, our Assemblies, our families. We can discuss the problem of providing more money for the Faith, and we can analyze our resources, make plans, and take action together.
In addition, we can study the Writings to find comfort, inspiration and guidance.
The Office of the Treasurer is urging communities to call upon a National Treasurer’s Representative and request deepening programs:
- “The Secret of Wealth”, on personal money management and Bahá’í “lifestyle”;
- “The Surest Way”, on combating materialism in America and on the spiritual nature of the Fund.
As we seek to increase our support of the Faith, we can first determine how much to give to the various Funds.
We can then seek opportunities to increase our level of sacrifice as well as opportunities for making special gifts, such as a fund-raising event, a special sacrifice, a major gift of property or principal.
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Members of the Spiritual Assembly of Jacksonville, Illinois, include (seated) Luther Mounts, and (standing left to right) Judy Mounts, Pauline Hoff, Richard Hoff, James Olive, Loretta Trumbo. Members not shown are Mr. and Mrs. Bill Mitchell and Sandy Johnson. Jacksonville, which had no resident Bahá’ís in mid-1978, boasted an enrollment of 80 by August 1979. See Jacksonville Grow! Even when large-scale enrollments were being reported in the southern U.S. nearly a decade ago, few Bahá’í communities grew as rapidly as Jacksonville, Illinois, has grown in less than a year. In mid-1978 there were no Bahá’ís in Jacksonville, a city of roughly 21,000 about 30 miles west of Springfield in west central Illinois. FOLLOWING a highly successful series of teaching campaigns led by the District Teaching Committee of Southern Illinois, Jacksonville formed its first Local Spiritual Assembly on November 9, 1978. By last Riḍván there were 27 believers in the city and the Assembly was incorporated. Its immediate goal was to double the number of believers in Jacksonville by Riḍván 1980. The goal has been far exceeded; as of last August, there were 80 Bahá’ís in the community. At least a dozen of these recently-enrolled believers have enrolled others through direct teaching or by teaching friends and relatives. Jacksonville has adopted an extension teaching goal of helping to raise an Assembly in South Jacksonville, another civil jurisdiction that had only one Bahá’í a year ago and now has five. Consolidation has gone hand in hand with expansion in Jacksonville. Study classes for children, youth and adults are held regularly, along with weekly firesides. Social gatherings and visits to homes play a large part in deepening many of the new believers, and the Jacksonville Assembly is developing a correspondence course to be sent to every believer in the community. |
Lusas[edit]
Continued From Page 8
POINTING OUT that the Lusas had two children already, the state implied that Mrs. Lusa would not be able to love so many.
The DCYS argued that foster parents have no right to adopt children placed in their care. Allowing that, according to the agency, would be like subjecting children to a popularity contest.
The Lusas argued that a permanent home was all they ever wanted for Jamal, and that what mattered was not their race, but their love for the child.
On August 1, Superior Court Judge Harry Hammer ruled in effect that race is relevant in adoptions and therefore, the state’s unwritten policy against interracial adoptions is valid:
“GRANTED THAT society and the community should not harbor attitudes against interracial mixture,” wrote the judge, “the subject ... is the child, whose life will be affected by community values and prejudices as they exist, not as they ought to be.”
Judge Hammer ordered the Lusas to return Jamal to the state.
The trial and its outcome attracted widespread publicity. The Lusas discussed on radio and television their battle to keep Jamal, and editorials and letters to the editor supporting them appeared in many newspapers. Mrs. Lusa plans to write a book about the experience.
The Lusas decided not to appeal Judge Hammer’s ruling because, Mrs. Lusa says, “we love Jamal too much to see him suffer. The appeal process could take two years or more, and he would be in foster homes all that time. We want him to be happy.”
On August 27, Jamal was placed with black adoptive parents.
“We hope he has found a loving family,” says Mrs. Lusa. “And we believe that with all the prayers we and our friends have said for him, this is the case.”
House of Báb Is Attacked, Demolished[edit]
Continued From Page 1
ARMED WITH this equipment, the mob raided the House of the Báb on the morning of Saturday, September 8.
They were led by a Mr. Shomali, chief construction builder for Ayatollah Baha’eddin Mahallati, an arch-enemy of the Bahá’í Faith in Shíráz. He was accompanied by Mr. Assadpour, the Ayatollah’s manager, a Haji Sharif who is head of the Religious Endowments Department in Shíráz, as well as a mullá named Sheikh Muḥammad Abtahi.
• The group was supported by 25 militiamen of Revolutionary Guards and about 10 civilians armed with pistols and guns.
• They poured into the House from various directions. They even had the key to the gate, which had been in the possession of the Central Revolutionary Committee of Shíráz. The Revolutionary Committee confiscated the property by force a few months earlier.
• THE VANDALS mobbed the House and started to rip out the ornamented doors and windows, loot the furniture and carpets, and vandalize the whole building. They even set fire to the orange trees in the yard.
• As soon as this unexpected attack started, the Bahá’ís in Shíráz appealed to the local authorities, such as the Police Department, the Justice Department and the Prosecutor General.
All of them gave the same reply—that it was not wise for them to interfere with this affair.
By afternoon the mob had made a hole in the wall that connected the House of the Báb with the adjacent Muslim religious school. They had also removed another wall between the House and the adjacent mosque.
• SOME OF those in the mosque revealed to Bahá’ís that they wanted to clear the land on which the buildings owned by the Bahá’í community stood, in order to build an annex for the mosque and school.
On September 9:
• Mr. Shomali appeared on the scene again, with seven of his construction workers, and they started to systematically and professionally demolish the building.
They first demolished the upper story, which included the sacred room in which the Báb revealed His Mission, and which was ordained as a place of pilgrimage for Bahá’ís by Bahá’u’lláh, the Founder of the Bahá’í Faith. They then started to demolish the rest of the House.
• Meanwhile, Mr. Golpayegani, a mullá representing Ayatollah Khomeini in Shíráz, inspected the site.
• THE BAHÁ’ÍS whose appeal had been turned down by the local authorities appealed to Ayatollah Baha’eddin Mahallati and his son, Ayatollah Majdedin Mahallati.
The Ayatollah frankly replied that the whole thing had been done at his instruction, because this House was the center of godlessness, repression and everything evil.
The Bahá’ís, he said, should recant their Faith and become Muslims so that they would no longer need this House as a holy place. If they remained Bahá’ís, he added, this is what would happen to them.
On September 10:
• While the demolition was being carried out by the workers of Mr. Shomali, the representatives of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Iran arrived in Shíráz and met with officials of the Foundation for the Destitute, which was the body claiming ownership of the Bahá’í property after its confiscation.
The officials said they did not know of the incident, and referred the Bahá’ís to the Revolutionary Prosecutor General, Mr. Katozian. This time, Mr. Katozian talked to the officials of the Municipality and to the police.
• The Shíráz Municipality sent its officials to stop the demolition, and some policemen were sent to guard the House.
By the end of the third day the demolition work was stopped, leaving the House of the Báb a bare skeleton.
View from a window shows extensive damage to the Declaration Chamber.
Paul and Ruth DeFay (center) of Santa Cruz, California, were among the instructors at a training session for facilitators of the National Education Committee’s Personal Transformation Program held over the Labor Day weekend in Evanston, Illinois. Trainees from eight states attended the three-day session.
Trainees get down to business during a National Education Committee-sponsored training session for Personal Transformation Program facilitators September 1-3 in Evanston, Illinois. Thirty trainees from eight states attended the training program.
Personal Transformation Facilitators Are Trained[edit]
Thirty Bahá’ís from eight states gathered September 1-3 at the National College of Education, less than a mile from the Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois, to be trained as facilitators in the National Education Committee’s Personal Transformation Program.
The program, begun two years ago in California, Illinois and New York as the Comprehensive Deepening Program, is a 10-week course designed to deepen participants in their knowledge of the Faith, and to stimulate action that can lead to their spiritual transformation.
THE FACILITATOR trainees, who came from California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, New York, Ohio, Texas and Virginia, were instructed by members of the National Education Committee staff and by Paul and Ruth DeFay of Santa Cruz, California, who have been involved in the program since its beginning in that state in 1977.
Trainees were given an overview of the course, and through lectures, discussions and role-playing, learned to help those who will be attending the Personal Transformation program set goals leading to spiritual growth and transformation.
Using the Writings as a stimulus to action, the comprehensive course covers such areas as work, prayer and meditation, communicating, teaching the Faith, and a wide range of interpersonal relationships.
“What we’re really talking about in this program,” said Mr. DeFay, “is a process that will last for eternity.”
FOLLOWING the three-day training session, the facilitators returned to their home states to present the Personal Transformation program to communities there.
In states that have a trained facilitator, his or her name will be forwarded to Local Spiritual Assemblies so that Assemblies and facilitators can work together to set up the program.
Another training session, for facilitators in Oregon and Washington states, is to be held in Oregon around Thanksgiving.
Using a series of such regional training conferences, the National Education Committee plans to bring the Personal Transformation Program to every state within the next two years.
Classified Ads[edit]
CLASSIFIED ADS in The American Bahá’í are intended as a service to the U.S. Bahá’í community and are printed free of charge.
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A NUMBER of positions at the Bahá’í National Center must be filled without delay. The Personnel Office asks that you help them identify Bahá’ís who are qualified for the specific offices and job requirements listed here: BAHÁ’Í PUBLISHING TRUST: General Manager—Coordinates and develops all aspects of publishing, including acquisition, editorial, audio-visual materials, production, marketing, ordering/billing, and warehouse. Requires 8-10 years high-level experience, plus Bahá’í administrative experience. Financial Manager—Functions as Comptroller to the Publishing Trust and oversees all fiscal and budgetary record-keeping. Requires a degree in accounting or business and three years experience as head accountant or comptroller of a small or medium-sized organization. Production Manager—Supervises Production Department, deals with vendors, schedules workload. Coordinates with Editorial and Special Materials departments. Purchases typesetting, bookbinding and printing supplies and services. Requires five years experience in production including two years in management. Editorial Assistant—Generates, writes, rewrites and proofreads copy at all stages. Evaluates manuscripts. Requires B.A. or B.S. degree plus one to two years editorial or related work experience. Must achieve satisfactory score on editorial test and type at least 45 words per minute. Warehouseman—Packs and receives orders, operates an electric scale, helps load vehicles. Must be able to lift 70 pounds. Must be a high school graduate. Some work experience preferred. Must have knowledge of postal procedures and regulations. Order Processing Clerk—Analyzes and edits orders for processing, maintains daily records, verifies invoices. Must be organized and enjoy attention to detail. Special Materials Administrative Clerk—Administers all office functions of Special Materials Department for the Audio-Visual Producer. Maintains files, answers correspondence. Must have verbal and writing skills, general knowledge of audio-visual production, music background, typing skills. Radio and television experience helpful. NATIONAL TEACHING COMMITTEE: Regional Coordinator—Works with District Teaching Committees and minority committees. Assists with coordination of special teaching projects. Requires Bahá’í administrative experience, strong communications skills and mature judgment. Fluency in Spanish or Persian languages helpful. Office Administrative Assistant—Assists office manager through scheduling meetings and arranging logistics, answering telephone and typing correspondence. District Teaching Committee experience helpful, but not required. Moderate typing speed mandatory, and familiarity with Spanish and Persian languages a plus. NATIONAL EDUCATION COMMITTEE: Program Administrator/Assembly Development—Manages special project throughout the American Bahá’í community. Requires Bahá’í administrative experience, ability to inspire and motivate volunteers, mature judgment, background in business administration or human services. Program Administrator/Bahá’í Schools—Coordinates activities of 20 school committees across the country. Reviews course outlines, develops curricula. Requires a degree in education or educational administration. Classroom teaching experience preferred. Must have ability to inspire volunteers. FACILITIES MAINTENANCE: HVAC Plumber—Maintains, installs and repairs all facility pipeline systems as needed. Requires five years plumbing, heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems repair experience. Security Guards—To patrol the House of Worship area and other National Center properties. Requires security training or aptitude, a driver’s license, excellent health, and willingness to work evening or night shifts. Retired persons are welcome to apply. BAHÁ’Í NEWS-THE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í: Clerical Assistant—Indexes, catalogues publications, develops and maintains photo and clippings files, answers telephone, types correspondence, does other routine office work. Some experience required. Must enjoy working with filing systems and be able to work with limited supervision. GENERAL BUSINESS SERVICES: Office Planning Consultant—Assists in relocating the National Center staff to the new Administrative Building. Plans space allocation and telephone systems. Requires experience in planning for office buildings in excess of 30,000 square feet, experience in planning for telephone systems in excess of 20 trunks and 100 stations, and familiarity with the private interconnect industry. Mail/Supply Assistant—Sorts and delivers mail; receives, fills and delivers supply orders, maintains inventory control cards. Experience preferred. ARCHIVES: Assistant Archivist—Accesses and processes archival material, supervises researchers, answers reference questions, assists with exhibits. Requires M.A. degree in history or library science; archival training desired. GROUNDS: Gardener I—Assists in development and maintenance of landscape at the National Center. Supervises summer help. Requires a two-year degree in ornamental horticulture and a minimum of one year experience in grounds maintenance. Gardener II—Supervises and assists in planting, propagation and cultivation of trees, shrubs, flower beds and lawns. Supervises seasonal workers. Requires degree in ornamental horticulture, at least two years experience in grounds maintenance work, with one year supervisory experience. Gardener’s Helper—Assists with grounds maintenance. Temporary full-time laborers needed. PERSONNEL: Personnel Coordinator—Coordinates all aspects of personnel program for the National Spiritual Assembly including staff relations, employee counseling, wages and benefits, recruitment and training. Recruiter—Recruits and selects the best qualified applicants for employment; conducts reference checks, screening interviews, orientations, assists in other personnel procedures. Must excel in communications skills. GENERAL SECRETARIAL: File Clerk—Urgently needed to file letters, documents, reports and cards in alphabetical, chronological or numerical filing systems. Must be a mature individual and deepened Bahá’í. Secretary—Under limited supervision, relieves Office Manager of details, supervises workflow, composes correspondence. Requires two to three years office experience and typing skills of 55-70 wpm. Bahá’ís who are qualified for any of these positions are urged to send resumes at once to the Bahá’í National Center, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091 (Attention: Personnel), or phone 312-256-4400.
BOLIVIA: School owned by Bahá’ís needs teachers of English as a foreign language and managerial staff. Knowledge of Spanish is not necessary for teachers. For more information, please contact the International Goals Committee, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-256-4400.
THREE ADULT Bahá’ís are needed in Midland, Michigan, to form a Local Spiritual Assembly. There are job opportunities for chemists and chemical engineers at Dow and Dow Corning. Midland is in a lovely area with good cultural and recreational facilities. For more information, phone Melvin Williams at 517-636-7443.
THE NATIONAL Bahá’í Archives Committee is seeking copies of newspaper articles on the Bahá’í Faith published during the years 1893-1963. The committee is not interested in paid advertisements or Bahá’í announcements of local meetings. The Archives Committee also would like to hear from Bahá’ís who are researching early newspaper articles. Please send newspaper articles to Mrs. Jane Shum, P.O. Box 132, Monroe, WI 53566.
COLLEGE APPLICANTS—if you are considering applying to college next year, consider one of the outstanding institutions in Providence, Rhode Island: Brown University, Johnson and Wales College, Providence College, or Rhode Island School of Design. Providence has an active Bahá’í community, and the Assembly invites applicants who are in town for admissions interviews to call the secretary for additional community information. The phone number is 401-421-9011.
PROSPECTIVE pioneers: Are you a carpenter, plumber, construction worker or miner? If so, a job in Delta, Colorado, may be yours! This Western Colorado community is in an agricultural area near mountains, rivers, lakes and prairie. Someone looking for orchard or ranch land has a good chance of finding suitable property here. The energy problem is expanding mining enterprises, which in turn is swelling the construction business. The Spiritual Assembly of Delta has eight members and expects to lose two more in January; it is a child-oriented community with a 12-member children’s class. Spanish-speaking pioneers are especially welcome, as there is a large Spanish-American population. For more information contact the Spiritual Assembly of Delta, 611 Howard, Delta, CO 81416, or phone 303-874-4970.
CHIROPRACTORS: The International Goals Committee would like information about chiropractic schools overseas. Please phone the International Goals Committee office, 312-256-4400, or write to the committee at 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091.
TRAVELING TEACHERS needed in the Caribbean. There is an urgent need for teachers in Barbados and the Windward Islands, the French Antilles and the Leeward and Virgin Islands, as well as in Bermuda. Eight new National Spiritual Assemblies will be formed in these areas during the Seven Year Plan. If you can help, please contact the International Goals Committee, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-256-4400.
HOLISTIC HEALTH practitioner, graduate of a four-year program in Naprapathy, one year clinical internship, presently in private practice in Evanston, Illinois, is seeking professional affiliation in a private practice or clinic. Family of four; prefer rural area, homefront pioneering. Contact Greg Lawton, DN, at 312-328-0694.
BAHÁ’ÍS WITH backgrounds in and knowledge of the Ukraine and/or Kazakhstan are invited to consult with the International Goals Committee, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312-256-4400), which is collecting information about these areas.
WANTED: Hired hand to live in. Must have experience with tractors and be able to help break horses. Extensive experience with horses preferred. Must be willing to help with Bahá’í teaching. $300 a month, plus room and board, other benefits. A good job for a single man who would like to teach among Sioux Indians as well as ranchers. References desired; start work immediately. Contact George Gilland, Box 905, Shields, ND 58569, or phone 701-422-3715.
S.O.A.—SAVE Our Assembly! Millwood, Washington, a small community near Spokane, has eight adult Bahá’ís and needs homefront pioneers. Millwood is green, peaceful, a recreational paradise—a good place to live and grow. There are two community colleges in Spokane, and a state college is only 30 minutes away. There are many businesses and industries; an industrial park is situated only five miles from Millwood. The Bahá’ís will help in finding a home. Please write to the Spiritual Assembly of Millwood, P.O. Box 141013, Spokane, WA 99214, or phone 509-924-7109 or 509-928-8744.
YOUNG MALE Bahá’í law student wants to share Chicago-area apartment sometime soon with another Bahá’í male. Would prefer Northern Illinois District No. 1, but would consider moving into Cook County. Willing to move at any time. Phone David Payne, 312-355-1294.
HOMEFRONT pioneers urgently needed to help save a fledgling Assembly in Orange County, Virginia. Orange County, within commuting distance of Charlottesville, Fredericksburg and Culpeper, is a largely rural area in central Virginia with good farm land and lovely countryside in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. There are extensive educational and employment opportunities in nearby cities, and it’s also possible to commute to Richmond and Washington, D.C. A small but diverse and active Bahá’í community formed an Assembly in February 1979. Two members have relocated, and the Assembly will be lost at Riḍván unless replacements can be found. The Faith is fairly well known in Orange County, and relations with the people are generally friendly. For more information, brochures, directions, maps, visit, tour, etc., please write to BAHÁ’Í FAITH, Burr Hill, VA 22433, or phone Lucia and Barry Sims, 703-854-5794, or Chris and Al McNett, 703-854-4019.
BURLINGTON, Wisconsin’s Spiritual Assembly is in jeopardy. This community, in the heart of the southeastern Wisconsin recreational area 30 miles from Milwaukee and 60 miles from the Bahá’í House of Worship, offers small-town atmosphere with big city employment opportunities. Well-run school district; full medical facilities available. For more details, please contact the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Burlington, P.O. Box 505, Burlington, WI 53105, or phone Mrs. Mary Jane Chiariello, 414-763-5132.
NORWAY CLUB: Pioneers and traveling teachers to Norway, with other persons who are interested in that country, have formed a club to exchange information and ideas. The convenor is William Thompson, and he may be reached by writing the International Goals Committee, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091.
DEMING, NEW MEXICO, needs help in its teaching and consolidation efforts. Large community of retired persons; ideal for retirees seeking a warmer climate. Good teaching opportunities. Contact Karen Androlewicz, 1410 South Country Club Road, Deming, NM 88030.
NEEDED: Traveling companion interested in teaching the Faith. Widow, 55, from Indiana is relocating in the South and will be traveling for about a month while looking for work and a retirement location. One-way south with a possible return trip next summer is the present itinerary. Write to Geneva Bookwalter, 513 South Woodlawn Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47401.
ART TEACHER specializing in pottery, photography, sculpture and film-making, able to teach kindergarten through 12th grade, wishes to relocate to a Bahá’í community overseas or in another state. English-speaking only. Contact Michael Schwabe, 112 Collie St., Williams Bay, WI 53191, or phone 414-245-9087.
NEED FUNDS for the Fund? We are looking for Vol. VIII of the Bahá’í World to complete the only set in northwestern Ohio. Will pay $50! Write to Dennis Ropiak, 836 Standish Drive, Bowling Green, OH 43402, or phone 419-352-3103.
BAHÁ’ÍS LIVING in communities of 15 or more adults, you can become a Light for Bahá’u’lláh when you homefront pioneer. Victorville, California, needs you to help the community grow and incorporate its Assembly. The present membership is 10 adults, one youth and one child. For more information, please contact the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Victorville, P.O. Box 1178, Victorville, CA 92392.
PIONEERING opportunity of a lifetime! Bahá’í Institute, Paraguay—active hub of indigenous teaching, 17 Assemblies in the region, desert climate, ideal for adventuresome single Bahá’í or Bahá’í family, preferably self-supporting. For more details, contact the International Goals Committee, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-256-4400.
NEEDED: Two Bahá’ís to help save the Assembly in Mapleton Township, South Dakota. We are a rural community but are only a few miles from Sioux Falls. There is housing available to rent or buy, and many job openings in and around Sioux Falls. Please contact the Spiritual Assembly of Mapleton Township, c/o Mary Hetts, secretary, Box 61, Renner, SD 57055, or phone 605-332-4159.
HOMEFRONT pioneers are urgently needed in Millwood, Washington, near Spokane. The Millwood Assembly presently has eight members. For more information, please contact the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Millwood, P.O. Box 141013, Spokane, WA 99214.
Many Overseas Schools Slated[edit]
The International Goals Committee has received reports of a number of Bahá’í schools scheduled during the coming few months:
Winter Schools—Hveragerfi, Iceland, December 28-30; Rovaniemi, Finland, December 29-January 1; Herl, Germany, December 22-29, December 30-January 6; Sweden, December 27-January 1.
Summer Schools—Port St. Johns, Transkei, December 10-15; Montshiwa, Bophuthatswana, December 15-22; Cape Town, South Africa, December 26-January 1; Windhoek, Namibia, January 6-13.
For further details on any of these schools, contact the International Goals Committee, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091.
Children at Green Acre Follow Master’s Blueprint[edit]
By HEIDI MELIUS
“It followeth that the children’s school must be a place of the utmost discipline and order, that instruction must be thorough, and provision must be made for the rectification and refinement of character, so that, in his earliest years, within the very essence of the child, the divine foundation will be laid, and the structure of holiness raised up.
“Know that this matter of instruction, of character rectification and refinement, of heartening and encouraging the child, is of utmost importance, for such are basic principles of God.
“Thus, if God will, out of these spiritual schools illumined children will arise, adorned with all the fairest virtues of humankind, and will shed their light not only across Persia, but around the world.”—Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 137
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Within these powerful words of the Master lies a blueprint for assessment of the children’s program at Green Acre Bahá’í School in Eliot, Maine.
To put the design into perspective, key phrases from each paragraph will be held up as goals for comparison. Thus, at the end of another summer, the children’s program invites the reader to investigate the results.
“The Structure of Holiness”[edit]
The basic structure at Green Acre is provided by the Green Acre Council, the administrative directors and the Children’s School Committee as they prayerfully work together to develop the summer programs.
Individual program directors are responsible for creating and maintaining order in their area of concern. In effect, all staff members work together to facilitate the needs of the program and of the many guests who come to Green Acre.
As in summers past, a well-structured children’s program formed a base from which many activities operated. Coordination between an arts and crafts director, recreation director, teachers and work/study assistants resulted in an exceptional program.
Children sensed a feeling of security as they were assured of scheduled events during their visit. This aided greatly in the perceived calmness at Green Acre.
The spiritual well-being of every child was reinforced by the program’s careful attention to early patterns of behavior.
Teachers led children in daily prayers and helped them to prepare devotional services for the entire campus. These methods, along with further classroom activities, were aimed at enkindling the children’s interest in the Holy Writings.
Another important element, the child’s physical well-being, was made a goal during snack time. Natural juices, fruits, and homemade treats reinforced the concept of proper nutrition. An afternoon program of cooperative games and sports taught physical as well as social development.
“Heartening and Encouraging the Child”[edit]
The program sought to increase each child’s awareness of his inclusion in a worldwide community of believers.
Thus, weekly “open houses” were held that brought the classroom work to the attention of parents, guests and youth.
Events in which youth worked directly with children to teach various languages and subjects reinforced the importance of community involvement in child education.
Two of the summer’s most significant occurrences exemplified the changing attitude toward children.
First, a special children’s corner in the library was set aside. Second, through the generosity of a believer, Green Acre was able to construct a new playground, thus enabling future generations of children to enjoy the fruits of this united effort by staff, parents and guests.
“Illumined Children Will Arise”[edit]
Yet another goal of the children’s program was to foster in each child a creative attitude toward learning about his or her own spiritualization.
For example, a poster-making seminar on the International Year of the Child encouraged children and adults to make visual presentations of their values.
Service projects, such as singing to elderly residents at a nearby nursing home, introduced the children to another aspect of public life.
As a final highlight of the summer program, during the “One World Arts Festival” children attended seminars in setting the Writings to music, and teaching the Cause through mime and puppetry.
Through activities such as these the International Year of the Child was observed, and hopefully, in your assessment, honored.
Participating in Bahá’í Community Life[edit]
Children need to experience the love of others, and they need to acquire a sense of belonging to a larger community to be able to grow in their love for others.
This begins within the family and should go on in the Bahá’í community, which provides a loving and supportive atmosphere wherein children can manifest spiritual qualities and test their responses to others.
The children need the examples of healthy human relationships that the Bahá’í community is trying to build, and the contact with peers who are struggling with the same problems, to encourage them and to help them develop spiritual qualities.
Studying the History of the Faith[edit]
The history of the Faith, if made interesting to the child, can be an important part of one’s growing love for the Faith and for Bahá’u’lláh, and is an indispensable part of the child’s spiritual education.
Through history, the child begins to understand the significance and magnitude of a Faith to which so many have been willing to dedicate their lives. It inspires him to increase his own dedication and service to the Cause, and provides examples of moral, reverent and courageous behavior.
The stories of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá are especially useful for illustrating moral behavior and the importance of acting on principle even though one might become unpopular for doing so.
Children’s classes at Green Acre Bahá’í School in Eliot, Maine, offer a unique blending of spiritual values and earthly delights, with activities ranging from outdoor classes with nutritious snacks (above) to dramatic skits and games depicting Bahá’í history and other themes (below).
This summer, the ingenuity, creativity and elbow grease of staff and guests at the Green Acre Bahá’í School in Eliot, Maine, brought a new addition to the school into being. In a matter of two days, what was an empty field became a playground featuring a ‘Nine Tire Bouncer’ and a ‘Forty-five Tire Tepee.’ Under the direction of playground architect Kit Clew, children, youth, parents and staff assembled on a Friday afternoon with hammers, shovels, assorted used tires and a large pile of sand. Digging and hammering furiously, they worked until darkness and mosquitoes drove them inside. Work continued the next morning, and the playground began to take shape. Participants, consulting and working together, began to see the fruits of their labors, and pushed onward to complete the task by noon. Finishing touches were added by the school’s maintenance staff to bring to a conclusion one of the most joyous and productive group activities yet seen at Green Acre.
Chiropractic Career Offers Opportunity for Service[edit]
(EDITOR’S NOTE: This is another in a series of articles on careers for Bahá’í youth. It was written by Cheryl D. Peterson, D.C., of Lake Mills, Wisconsin.)
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Health care is of special interest to Bahá’ís since Bahá’u’lláh has described its knowledge as “the most important of all the sciences ...” (Quoted in Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era, p. 121)
If you’re looking for a career in health care that serves mankind by removing causes of illness and alleviating suffering, that offers high material rewards along with honor, privilege and community status, a career in chiropractic may be for you.
Chiropractic Defined[edit]
Chiropractic is based on the premise that diseases and other abnormalities are caused by interference with normal nerve transmission and expression, due primarily to pressure, strain, irritation or tension on the spinal nerves that have deviated from their normal position.
The practice of chiropractic consists of the analysis of interference with normal nerve transmission and expression, and its correction by specific adjustment of the abnormal deviations of the bony articulations, especially of the spine, to remove the cause of disease without the use of drugs or surgery.
The term “analysis” is construed to include the use of x-rays and other analytical instruments generally used in the practice of chiropractic.
A Brief History[edit]
In 1895, Daniel D. Palmer of Davenport, Iowa, discovered the principle of chiropractic after restoring a deaf man’s hearing through use of a specific spinal adjustment.
Mr. Palmer did not claim to be the first to replace a misaligned vertebra, since this had been done in many cultures from antiquity, but he discovered and comprehended the relationship between the nervous system, the spine, and health.
Mr. Palmer founded the first school of chiropractic, which still bears his name.
Chiropractic first gained recognition during the influenza epidemic of 1911 when few, if any, chiropractic patients succumbed to the disease.
There are now about 23,000 doctors of chiropractic in the U.S., and an undetermined but rapidly growing number in other countries.
There are more than a dozen chiropractic schools in the U.S. The Palmer School in Iowa is the largest with some 1,800 students. There also are schools in Canada, England and Australia.
School Admission[edit]
A minimum of two years of college or 60 credits including chemistry and zoology with lab classes is usually required.
The situation changes frequently due to school and state licensing requirements. Check with the specific school for information.
A B.S. degree is recommended, and most candidates for admission hold an undergraduate degree. A letter of recommendation from an alumnus also is helpful.
Chiropractic Curriculum[edit]
The chiropractic education consists of a four-year program with heavy emphasis on basic sciences, i.e., chemistry, anatomy and physiology for the first half, and chiropractic analytical and adjustment techniques and clinical practice for the balance.
Courses are fixed with no electives. Besides completing the various courses, students must fulfill patient visit requirements at the clinic before graduation.
For lists of accredited chiropractic colleges, write to the International Chiropractors Association, 1901 L St. N.W., Suite 800, Washington, D.C. 20036, or to the American Chiropractors Association, 2200 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50312.
Licensing[edit]
Detailed information on this can be obtained from the various schools or the two national organizations. In almost all cases, candidates for licensure must pass the two parts of the National Board examination given by the Chiropractic Council on Education in addition to the state licensing exam.
Practice[edit]
Income varies greatly according to location, personal ability and managerial skills.
Chiropractors working alone average a personal income of $60,000 a year after practicing for five or more years.
Many recent graduates have chosen to work for an established chiropractor either on salary or commission. This is done to obtain more experience, and to accumulate the capital necessary to begin one’s own practice.
Chiropractic services are in great demand nearly everywhere, which provides wide freedom of choice in where to live. There are always practices for sale due to retirements, and the schools usually maintain career opportunity offices to help the graduate. Professional magazines also list practices for sale.
This situation isn’t likely to change soon, since the demand for chiropractic services exceeds the projected supply of doctors of chiropractic.
Suggested Reading[edit]
The Chiropractic Story by Marcus Bach. The best available book on the subject. The author’s name will be familiar to many Bahá’ís. Almost every library has a copy. Published in 1968 by DeVorss & Company, Los Angeles.
Three Generations by David D. Palmer, D.C. The book covers the story of the Palmer family and their contribution to the profession.
Both of these books also are available from the Palmer School of Chiropractic, 1000 Brady St., Davenport, IA 52803. Phone 319-324-1611.
Nathan Ashelman (left) and Lara Ashelman, Bahá’í children from Alexandria, Virginia, lay a wreath at the Religious Freedom Monument in Fredericksburg. The Bahá’ís of Alexandria also planted flowers near the monument, which honors Thomas Jefferson’s drafting of the Virginia Statute of Religious Freedom in 1777.
Bahá’ís Help Beautify Grounds At Virginia Freedom Monument[edit]
On Sunday, June 3, the Bahá’ís of Alexandria, Virginia, planted flowers to help beautify the grounds at the Religious Freedom Monument in Fredericksburg, Virginia, Alexandria’s extension teaching goal.
The flowers were accepted by the Thomas Jefferson Institute on behalf of the Fredericksburg Council of Garden Clubs.
In addition to the flowers, a wreath was laid at the monument that honors the spirit of tolerance displayed by Thomas Jefferson who, in 1777, drafted the Virginia Statute of Religious Freedom in Fredericksburg.
Thus Mr. Jefferson, then a member of the Virginia House of Delegates and later the second President of the U.S., guaranteed the citizens of Virginia the same degree of religious freedom provided in the First Amendment to the Constitution.
Among those present for the flower-planting ceremony were Dr. Kurt F. Leidecker, director of the Institute, his wife and secretary; Paul Snyder, a Bahá’í from Fredericksburg; several Bahá’ís from Alexandria, and some residents of Fredericksburg.
Bahá’í prayers were read and a brief talk on the relationship of Bahá’í principles to religious freedom was given by Peter Ashelman of Alexandria.
A picnic at a nearby park preceded the ceremony.
Mrs. Khadem Offers Ideas For Firesides[edit]
At a recent meeting with the District Teaching Committee of Eastern Pennsylvania, Auxiliary Board member Javidukht Khadem suggested that the friends in each community conduct a regular weekly fireside called, “A Party for Bahá’u’lláh.”
Mrs. Khadem promised that if the friends would use this method, which she herself has used for many years, they would double their numbers every year.
Here are Mrs. Khadem’s guidelines for conducting these firesides:
- Plan to hold the community fireside (open house) at the same location each week.
- Invite everyone to come whether he has someone to bring or not (hopefully, Bahá’ís will have seekers to bring).
- Have a fireside coordinator to answer questions.
- If there are questions, the coordinator should answer them, or ask another of the Bahá’ís to do so. This prevents the seeker from becoming confused by too many answers to the same question.
- Have good speakers. The talk should not last more than half an hour; the host or hostess should not be a speaker.
- Provide good refreshments. They should be as well-planned as the talk (perhaps two or more people could go in on the refreshments).
- There should be music and/or a filmstrip at the beginning of the evening to set the mood.
- The formal part of the fireside should not last more than an hour (remember that most of the teaching will be done while guests are talking in small groups).
- Be sure to have Bahá’í literature available.
- The fireside should be a community responsibility; that is, the community should take part in preparations, invitations, speakers, refreshments, cleanup, etc.
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Arise! |
- When refreshments are ready, the Bahá’ís should get up and break the formal mood of the fireside.
‘Ladder of Success’ Leads to Pioneering[edit]
Strange things have been happening to Jim Keenan, a Bahá’í who lives in Charleston, West Virginia.
Strange things indeed. Wondrous things. Remarkable things. Things that have left Jim Keenan thinking that Bahá’u’lláh must really want him to pioneer.
CHANGES have taken place so fast that it hardly seems to Jim like a year since he started translating some of the Writings into Chinese.
He had begun studying Chinese on his own about 10 years ago, and received further training in the language while serving in the U.S. Air Force.
Last January, he figured it was time he started using his linguistic talents for the Faith. He decided to pioneer to Japan.
Jim wrote to Mr. Muntazi, a Continental Counsellor in Asia, who forwarded his letter to the Universal House of Justice. The Supreme Body asked that he pioneer to Taiwan.
JIM WAS enthusiastic about the idea, but knew he should settle his debts first.
Unfortunately, he’d just lost two of his three jobs: teaching English to Vietnamese, and teaching self-defense to the blind.
That left him with a $2.90-an-hour job as a security guard in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and what seemed like a small mountain of bills.
Undeterred, Jim prayed for faith and for guidance. He resolved that he would rely upon God and do the best job he could.
Soon afterward, he was promoted to sergeant—with a raise in pay. Six weeks later, he was given a more difficult assignment in another part of the city. Again, his salary went up.
A MONTH later, Jim Keenan was promoted to supervisor for the city of Pittsburgh. But even that, it seems, wasn’t good enough for Bahá’u’lláh.
Two weeks later, Jim became the company’s area representative for West Virginia and part of southern Ohio. He was given his own office and company car, and his travels through West Virginia leave time to help the District Teaching Committee with the teaching work.
Best of all, Jim should be debt-free and ready to pioneer in a little more than a year.
“I think,” he says of his remarkable series of promotions, “that if I wasn’t somewhat used to our miraculous Faith, I might be astonished by all this.”
He admits, however, that he was slightly astonished on September 18 when the company gave him yet another pay raise!
Jim’s plans are to keep working, pay his debts, and maintain contact with the National Spiritual Assembly of Taiwan and our International Goals Committee.
If the last few months are any indication of what’s to come, Jim Keenan will soon be on his way to Taiwan as a Bahá’í pioneer.
The Spiritual Assembly of Richland, Washington, held its Recognition Ceremony July 14. Among the 27 Bahá’ís and four guests who attended was Auxiliary Board member Opal Conner. The Assembly was formed last February 24. Its members include (front row left to right) Jean Johnson, Helene Wittekind, Dr. Samuel Chambers, Jack Johnson, and (back row left to right) Mary Lucas, Warren Wittekind, Eric Harting, Carol Harting. Not present was Assembly member Steven Donald.
Children have fun playing with inner tubes while adults enjoy a lively game of volleyball during the sixth annual ‘Fourth of July Bahá’í River Float’ in San Marcos, Texas.
San Marcos Hosts ‘River Float’[edit]
More than 70 Bahá’ís and their guests enjoyed the sixth annual “Fourth of July Bahá’í River Float” this year in San Marcos, Texas.
The “river float,” created by the Spiritual Assembly of San Marcos to bring Texas Bahá’ís and their non-Bahá’í friends together for a day of recreation, fun and fellowship, has been gaining in popularity each year.
The event is a floating assemblage of people in inner tubes and inflatable floats held on or about the Fourth of July each summer.
This year’s river float was followed by a picnic, volleyball and horseshoes, and ended in the evening with a deepening by Auxiliary Board member Hormoz Bastani on the Writings of Shoghi Effendi.
The Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Seal Beach, California, was formed July 28. Shown with Continental Counsellor Alfred Osborne of Panama (front row center) are Assembly members (front row left to right) Isola Goodel, Sheila Osborne, Bessie Arthure, Melva Osborne, and (back row left to right) Vivian Hubler (chairman), Masoud Eshraghian, Faramarz Imani (secretary), Della Foxman, Tim Perry.
Spirit of Sacrifice Lives in Letters to Treasurer[edit]
Dear Friends:
I am sending you my restitution check, received today from the German government as a part-compensation for losses incurred during the Jewish persecutions under the Hitler regime.
What a turn of events: Hitler, indirectly helping to build a new World Order whose every principle he so fiercely fought to suppress and destroy.
That’s Divine Justice at work! (I cannot help but rejoice. It is so hard to love one’s enemies.)
Nyack, New York
Dear Friends:
In the interest of reducing our deficit and increasing our national pledge to the International Bahá’í Fund, I have learned how to cut my husband’s hair.
Enclosed is a check for the amount we would have paid the barber for a year of haircuts. With each snip, we’ll be thinking of how quickly the financial situation can be remedied if we all pitch in with “shear sacrifice.”
Hartsdale, New York
Dear Friends:
It is my request that the enclosed check be used for the International Fund. It represents money set aside in the budget by my wife so I could go to a resort for a time to recuperate from a recent operation.
On reflection, I find that giving the money to the Fund will make me feel much better than spending it on myself. I’m very happy to be able to spare it.
Smyrna, Georgia
Dear Friends:
After lengthy consultation, the Austin Bahá’í community felt moved to sacrifice its Center Fund savings account for the construction of the Seat of the Universal House of Justice.
Austin has had a goal for the last five years to acquire a Center and has been saving toward that goal for about three years.
But due to the distressing events of this period, we felt it was paramount to contribute these monies to a higher goal.
In addition to the original savings, the community decided to strive to match the funds with contributions! As a result, we are overjoyed to be able to send double the amount originally agreed upon.
We have also increased our budget allotment to this fund, as well as to the Continental Fund and the International Deputization Fund.
We praise God that we have the opportunity to serve in this way.
Bahá’ís of Austin, Texas
Dear Friends:
Saving money so that my wife, our young son, and I could go on pilgrimage has been a major goal of our family.
Living in opulent America, I may not understand the importance of pilgrimage and would not be willing to part with these funds; however, we couldn’t sit on our inertia without doing something.
The destruction of the House of the Báb, the Holy Place where our beloved Faith began, led my wife to suggest sacrificing the pilgrimage for now.
This is the least we can do, and we look forward to saving again for the pilgrimage.
Grand Island, Nebraska
Florida Fund Raiser Nets $1,400 for Fund[edit]
Shortly after H. Borrah Kavelin, a member of the Universal House of Justice, visited Miami, Florida, this summer as a part of his visit to North America and Europe to clarify the dimensions of the present crisis in Iran, the Spiritual Assembly of North Broward County organized a fundraising dinner for the Bahá’í International Fund.
About 90 Bahá’ís and their guests enjoyed an evening of music, square dancing and fellowship, during which $1,400 was raised for the International Fund.
The success of the dinner prompted the North Broward community to begin planning a similar fund-raising event to be held at the end of the year.
[Page 19]
The Bahá’í community of Clovis, California, saluted the International Year of the Child with its entry in the annual Clovis Day parade this spring. Included were two large banners and children of many racial backgrounds, most of whom were not Bahá’ís, carrying flags of many countries. Approximately 20,000 people saw the parade, and the Bahá’ís felt an especially warm response to their entry as compared to other floats in the parade.
In Memoriam[edit]
- Mrs. Sabiheh Afsahi
- Arlington, Texas
- August 4, 1978
- Mrs. Belinda Ahangarzadeh
- Mansfield, Texas
- July 18, 1979
- Ernest Aulls
- Tahlequah, Oklahoma
- August 2, 1979
- Leroy Barnes
- Little Rock, Arkansas
- August 14, 1979
- Larry Bethea
- Dillon, South Carolina
- Date Unknown
- Miss Sharon Bethea
- Latta, South Carolina
- 1975
- Miss Celia Blair
- Bennettsville, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Thomas Bridges
- Bennettsville, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Vance Bridges
- Bennettsville, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Isaac Brown
- Bennettsville, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Raymond Buckley
- Wakpala, South Dakota
- August 18, 1979
- Willie Burgess
- Kingstree, S. Carolina
- Date Unknown
- William Buyvid
- Central Valley, Calif.
- August 11, 1979
- Harris Legette
- Latta, South Carolina
- Date Unknown
- Edward Cook
- Manor, Texas
- Date Unknown
- Jack Davis Jr.
- Marion, South Carolina
- 1977
- Roosevelt Duval
- Manor, Texas
- Date Unknown
- Cecil Epps
- Kingstree, S. Carolina
- July 4, 1979
- Mrs. Lillie Franks
- Effingham, S. Carolina
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Margaret Frierson
- Kingstree, S. Carolina
- Date Unknown
- Sammy Gadson
- Walterboro, S. Carolina
- 1979
- Merrill Gamble
- Kingstree, S. Carolina
- 1978
- Mrs. Jessie E. Gimlin
- Glendora, California
- May 22, 1978
- Henry Lee Graham
- Kingstree, S. Carolina
- Date Unknown
- J. W. Green
- Alamogordo, New Mexico
- July 1, 1979
- Miss Sandra Greene
- Kingstree, S. Carolina
- Date Unknown
- Thomas S. Greene Jr.
- Augusta, Georgia
- March 1979
- Essie Habit
- Manor, Texas
- Date Unknown
- Joseph Hamlet
- Kingstree, S. Carolina
- Date Unknown
- Preston Hines
- Greenville, Texas
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Beulah Humphries
- Douglasville, Georgia
- January 1979
- Mrs. Daisy Bell Jackson
- Homestead, Florida
- 1977
- James Johnson
- Gifford, Florida
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Mamie Johnson
- Denmark, S. Carolina
- 1978
- Miss Shirley Johnson
- Bennettsville, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- John H. Jones
- Greenville, Texas
- 1978
- Allah-Kuli Kalantar
- Middletown, Connecticut
- August 1, 1979
- Mrs. Melba Call King
- Seattle, Washington
- September 7, 1979
- Willie Lewis
- Bennettsville, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Karoline Lindemann
- Red Bank, New Jersey
- September 4, 1979
- Mrs. Viviana Lisota
- Redding, California
- August 20, 1979
- Milton Malave
- Key West, Florida
- August 24, 1979
- Marion McLeod
- Longs, South Carolina
- May 1979
- Mrs. Queen McLeod
- Hartsville, S. Carolina
- Date Unknown
- Wilson McNair
- Little Rock, Arkansas
- Date Unknown
- Richardene Mitchell
- Yonges Island, S.C.
- 1978
- Dean M. Mooney
- Burton, Washington
- August 21, 1979
- Willie Moore
- Bennettsville, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Josephine J. O’Bert
- Warrensburg, Missouri
- August 25, 1979
- Johnny Page
- North Myrtle Beach, S.C.
- July 1979
- Willie Payne
- Greenville, Texas
- Date Unknown
- William Perleberg
- Prairie Du Sac & Lodi, Wis.
- August 7, 1979
- Mrs. Fannie Peterkin
- Bennettsville, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Kathryn Rendell
- Little River, S. Carolina
- Date Unknown
- Willie Robertson
- Phoenix, Arizona
- July 8, 1979
- Jackie Robinson
- Denmark, South Carolina
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Hedow Sellers
- Patrick, South Carolina
- August 18, 1979
- James Sims
- West Memphis, Arkansas
- August 14, 1979
- Mark Lynn Smallwood
- Greenville, Texas
- 1977
- Willie Solders
- Kingstree, S. Carolina
- 1975
- James Thompson
- Dale, South Carolina
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Ludmila Van Sombeek
- Phoenix, Arizona
- September 7, 1979
- Eddie Washington
- Moncks Corner, S.C.
- 1977
- Mrs. Florence Watson
- Lantana, Florida
- August 30, 1979
- Mrs. Madie Whittington
- Latta, South Carolina
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Jessie M. Williams
- Dillon, South Carolina
- Date Unknown
- Philip Winner
- White Swan, Washington
- 1978
Bahá’ís from 7 communities on the California Peninsula south of San Francisco combined forces to design, set up and staff a booth at the San Mateo County Fair held July 23–August 4. Among the booth’s more impressive features was an art collage of colored dough on the theme of the International Year of the Child made by the children of local Bahá’ís. Pamphlets in Spanish and English were given away, and 40 people including one who was manning a nearby booth signed the Guest Book. The booth was a project of the San Mateo County Intercommunity Committee.
Swiss Report[edit]
Continued From Page 1
of wrongdoing; forced recantations of faith; and in some cases, imprisonment on “trumped-up charges.”
THE REPORT, prepared last July, went on to say: “The proposed constitution of Iran does not recognize the Bahá’í Faith as a legitimate religious body in the new Islamic Republic.
“They (the Bahá’ís) will have no rights of personal status if it is approved. This means they must deny their faith to get married, divorced, distribute inheritances and estates, and adopt children because they must pretend to be someone else to do these acts.
“The reason? These four acts of personal status are religious acts that must be done according to the rules of the four recognized religions of the country—of which the Bahá’í Faith is not included.
“Some religious leaders of the Islamic Faith have been asked why the Bahá’ís were not mentioned in the proposed constitution.
“ONE ANSWER has been that since there are so few Bahá’ís in the country, it is useless to designate as legitimate such an insignificant minority. This is said about the largest of the four religious minorities in Iran!”
Between July, when the report was prepared, and September, when it was released, said the commission, the government in Iran had begun excluding from admission to schools children who professed to be Bahá’ís, and had placed the names of 37 “national Bahá’í leaders” on its list of persons who may not leave Iran.
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The commission’s report made these specific requests:
- That the news media be apprised of these facts and this information.
- That the media be asked to publish in their outlets (news of) the dangers that confront the Bahá’ís in Iran.
- That the Human Rights Commission of the United Nations be notified of what has happened and that this matter be introduced at the United Nations through a neutral or Third World nation.
The author of the report concluded by stating his belief that “unless immediate steps are taken through appropriate channels, there is a real and present danger to a group of faithful disciples of the religion of Bahá’u’lláh.”
Love’s Foundation Set Moment Child Is Born[edit]
(EDITOR’S NOTE: This is the fifth in a series of six articles on moral and spiritual education by Dr. Susan Theroux of Fredonia, New York. Dr. Theroux received her PhD. in education at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst.)
•
Being Loved[edit]
A person can only love if he or she has experienced love or reacts to conditions that stir positive emotions.
The foundation for love begins the moment the child is born—perhaps even earlier. He must have at least one significant adult who loves and cares for him and to whom he can develop an attachment.
STUDIES have shown that children who are not loved and cuddled in infancy, even though they are well fed and clothed, often develop illnesses, and some even die.
Mothers (or primary caretakers) should not be afraid of their infant’s attachment to them, but rather, should nurture it. If the infant feels secure in this attachment early in life, he will be able to develop a healthy independence later.
Even though children ages three to 14 do not require the constant care and supervision of parents, they still need to experience their parents’ love.
This love is expressed through sharing experiences with the children—by simply spending time with them in activities enjoyable to both parties. When parents are away a large part of the day or travel often, children experience feelings of rejection and can develop a resentment that affects their ability to love and trust others.
WHEN CHILDREN feel loved they develop a general sense of trust in the world and a positive view of themselves.
Upon this foundation of trust in oneself and the world is built the child’s ability to love others and to make independent judgments about right and wrong.
A child who grows up unloved will usually be mistrustful of others and have a low opinion of himself. Rather than loving others, he often feels threatened by them.
Furthermore, his self-confidence seldom develops, and he has difficulty in making independent judgments because he mistrusts his ability to do so.
When we tell a child that God loves him, his soul responds, but his soul can be veiled if he does not experience love on the material plane.
If a child feels love from his parents, he can begin to know what it means to love God and to be loved by Him. On this foundation his devotion and obedience to Bahá’u’lláh can be built.
Meeting in Michigan[edit]
More than 70 people including 20 to 30 seekers were present Sunday, June 3, at a public meeting in Mt. Clemens, Michigan, at which Dr. Firuz Kazem-zadeh, vice-chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly, spoke on “World Order, World Peace.”
The meeting was co-sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Detroit and the Bahá’í Group of Clinton Township.
The day before the public meeting. Dr. Kazemzadeh spoke at Wayne State University to more than 170 of the believers from Michigan about the present situation of the Bahá’ís in Iran.
The staff at the Bahá’í National Center in Wilmette turned out in force in early September to clean and spruce up the grounds and other areas at the Bahá’í House of Worship. In the top photo, National Spiritual Assembly Secretary Glenford E. Mitchell does some weeding in the gardens. Staff members filled many a trash can with refuse (middle photo), while entertainment at lunch in the basement of the House of Worship (bottom photo) was provided by members of the Unity Bluegrass Band (left to right) Doug Minard, Jackson Blanchard, Dave Neidig and Dave Bragman. ‘Clean-up days’ are scheduled about once every six months.
Bahá’í Publishing Trust
MINI CATALOG
Fall/Winter 1979-80 Special Pull-Out Section
Bahá’í Sacred Literature[edit]
Writings of Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Selected Writings of Bahá’u’lláh
By Bahá’u’lláh. A new cloth gift edition of a popular selection of Bahá’u’lláh’s Writings. Set in relatively large type on large pages, the new edition is inviting and easy to read. New Foreword introduces the reader to the history and teachings of the Bahá’í Faith. Grey ribbon bookmark. Red binding, stamped in silver. A perfect gift for seekers, new Bahá’ís, friends of the Faith, local dignitaries. 125 pp., references.
7-03-24 cloth $4.50; 40/$171.00
7-03-23 paper (1975 edition) $1.10; 10/$8.50
Prayers and Meditations
By Bahá’u’lláh. A selection of nearly two hundred prayers and devotional passages revealed by Bahá’u’lláh. The selections “reveal the infinite bounty of God’s purpose for man”—Horace Holley. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. 339 pp., index.
7-03-10 cloth $7.00
Memorials of the Faithful
By ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. The Master’s remembrances of seventy-nine early believers, all of whom had one thing in common—their love for Bahá’u’lláh. The biographical sketches focus on the quality of soul and the attributes of spirit, rather than on the material aspects of the believers’ lives. “These are short and simple accounts, but they constitute a manual of how to live, and how to die.”—Marzieh Gail. Translated by Marzieh Gail. Inspiring reading for Bahá’ís. 203 pp.
7-06-12 cloth $6.50
Daily Lessons Received at ‘Akká: January 1908
By Helen Goodall and Ella Goodall Cooper. Now in a new revised edition—one of the earliest published accounts of life in the prison household of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. The book takes its title not just from the direct oral instruction of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, but also from the lessons He taught by His deeds.
Daily Lessons features descriptions of the pilgrimage, anecdotes, and questions answered by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Also included are several talks by a well-known Persian teacher of the Faith, and Tablets from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to the authors. Foreword by Howard Garey. Design by John Solarz. Useful for deepening on ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the Exemplar of our Faith. 73 pp., appendices, notes.
7-32-41 paper $4.85 NET
New Books on the Bahá’í Faith[edit]
Two Books by Early Pilgrims
Poetry and Prose
How to “Live the Life”
Ten Days in the Light of ‘Akká
By Julia M. Grundy. An early pilgrim’s account of her pilgrimage to ‘Akká in 1905. The book records ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s words—as the author recalled them—on many fascinating subjects. It includes talks by members of the Holy Household and brief accounts of the author’s visits to the Tomb of Bahá’u’lláh, the Riḍván garden, and ‘Akká. Foreword by Howard Garey. Design by John Solarz. A thoughtful gift for Bahá’ís. 107 pp., notes.
7-32-40 paper $4.85 NET
Counsels of Perfection:
A Bahá’í Guide to Mature Living
By Genevieve Coy. A new book containing helpful suggestions on how each of us can turn the Bahá’í Teachings into a way of life. Includes many examples, “how-to” lists, and brief quotations from the Bahá’í Writings. Some of the topics covered are: the prison of self; gentleness and love; education in the home; the use of money; the use of intelligence; and fairness to yourself and others. 176 pp., references.
7-32-34 paper $2.25 NET
Another Song, Another Season:
Poems and Portrayals
By Roger White. A new collection of the poems and prose of a writer who has won a considerable reputation in Bahá’í circles. Includes vivid, sympathetic portraits of martyrs, pioneers, and ordinary people. Some of the figures portrayed are ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Louis Gregory, and Fred Mortensen.
Comments by other authors: “I have always found pure delight in the writing of Roger White.”—William Sears, Hand of the Cause of God. “These are poems to be read, to be heard—they are poems to enjoy.”—Eunice Braun. “We foresee many a friend and relative immersed in Roger White’s book when the Bahá’ís are out of the house!”—Marzieh Gail. 162 pp., notes, bibliography.
7-32-36 cloth $7.50 NET
7-32-37 paper $3.50 NET
The Brilliant Stars:
The Bahá’í Faith and the Education of Children
By H.T.D. Rost, M.A., Ed.D. Just released—a comprehensive new book that will give every reader a new appreciation of the potency of the Bahá’í teachings on education. The Brilliant Stars:
- surveys the development of Bahá’í education from 1844 to the present
- outlines the principles and ideals of the Faith
- discusses virtues and perfections children may attain
- explains the role of the family, community, and school in the education of children
- shows how the education of children along Bahá’í lines contributes to the unification of the world
- contains quotations from the Bahá’í Writings
- and much more
“... a splendid piece of research....a very needed and comprehensive treatment of the subject.”—Stanwood Cobb. 161 pp., references.
7-32-45 cloth $8.95 NET
7-32-46 paper $3.50 NET
New on Bahá’í Education[edit]
For Parents, Teachers
When We Grow Up
By Bahíyyih Nakhjavání. A new book written to help Bahá’í parents, future parents, and those interested in education meet the challenge of bringing up children in a non-Bahá’í society. Not a manual of do’s and don’ts. Some of the subjects covered are: spiritual laws and the danger of raising children in ignorance of them; the parental role of Spiritual Assemblies; and the use of Bahá’í Writings in the rearing of children. Includes quotations from the Bahá’í Writings. 102 pp.
7-32-38 cloth $5.95 NET
7-32-39 paper $1.95 NET
New Cassette[edit]
Available at a special low price
Crisis in the Bahá’í World:
The Universal House of Justice Message on the Bahá’í International Fund
Presented by Mr. Borrah Kavelin. The upheaval in Iran has crippled the Iranian Bahá’í Community, cutting off the principal source of contributions to the Bahá’í International Fund and the seat of The Universal House of Justice. In this talk, recorded in New York City in June, 1979, Universal House of Justice member Borrah Kavelin explains the gravity of the crisis and calls upon the friends to meet the extraordinary spiritual challenge that the situation in Iran presents to every Bahá’í.
Discount priced so that as many Bahá’ís as possible can hear this historic talk.
6-31-45 cassette $2.50 NET (save $2.05)
Filmstrip Program[edit]
Pilgrimage to the House of the Báb
The House of the Báb has been destroyed, but through this beautiful audio-visual program you can still visit that sacred Spot. The Báb declared His mission at this house in Shíráz, Persia on May 23, 1844, and Bahá’u’lláh ordained it as one of three Holy Places in the World that Bahá’í pilgrims should visit.
Bilingual (Spanish and English). Includes filmstrip, cassette, narration booklet. Color. 84 frames. 20 minutes.
6-01-87 English only $10.15 (supply limited)
6-01-88 Bilingual $11.25
1980 Bahá’í Calendars[edit]
For Personal, Community Use
NOTE: The 1980 Bahá’í calendars pictured here (except for the pocket calendar) cover a full fifteen months, from January 1980 through March 1981. Beginning in 1981, all of the calendars will be geared to the Bahá’í year, which begins on Naw-Rúz, March 21.
1980 Bahá’í Date Book
You’re a busy person, and you want to keep track of all your appointments and meetings, Feasts, and Holy Days. Why not put the new Bahá’í Date Book to work for you? This year’s new improved Date Book:
- allows more space for notes on each page
- fits more easily in pocket or shoulder bag
- arranges weeks to begin on Sunday, end on Saturday
- includes detailed information on the meaning of the Bahá’í calendar, Bahá’í anniversaries, days on which work should be suspended
- and much more
Attractive green cover. 3½x6½ inches.
6-69-30 $1.00; 10/9.50
1980 Bahá’í Pocket Calendar
An entire year’s calendar on a card designed to fit conveniently in your purse or billfold. The calendar lists Bahá’í Holy Days, noting which ones require suspension of work. Buy extra pocket calendars to inform your employer or children’s teachers of Bahá’í Holy Days. Deep green ink on white card stock. 3⅝ x 2⅜ inches.
6-69-60 $ .10; 10/.90; 100/7.50
1980 Bahá’í Wall Calendar
Our most popular calendar. Attractive and easy to use, the 1980 Wall Calendar features a beautiful full-color photograph of the Shrine of the Báb at night. The front of the calendar tells at a glance when each Bahá’í month begins and ends. Information about Feasts and Holy Days printed on back. For home, school, office. 8½ x 11 inches.
6-69-40 $ .50; 10/4.50; 50/18.50; 250/70.00
137 B.E. Bahá’í Planning Calendar
(See free offer below)
Planning ahead? Most of us need to, and this calendar is designed to help. Covers thirteen months beginning March 1, 1980 and ending March 31, 1981. Local Spiritual Assemblies and committees can refer to the calendar during consultation. Individuals, business-people, and families can post the calendar on a wall, making it an “information center” for coming events, appointments, meetings, and outings. Printed in green and black on white stock. Shipped in mailing tube. 25 x 38 inches.
Special offer! Order now and receive one free 136 B.E. Planning Calendar (March ’79-March ’80) with each 137 B.E. Planning Calendar.
6-69-10 $2.50:5/12.00
1980 Bahá’í Memo Pad Calendar
New this year! A convenient calendar pad with one Gregorian month per tear-off sheet. Indicates all Bahá’í Holy Days and Nineteen Day Feasts. Allows ample space for writing in dates of your appointments, meetings, and firesides. Use flat on desk, hang on wall, or carry in three-ring binder. Perfect for use at Local Spiritual Assembly meetings. 8½ x 11 inches.
6-69-90 $2.00; 10/19.00
Books in Persian[edit]
Prayers of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
A selection of prayers revealed by the Master. Cloth edition stamped in gold. 121 pp.
7-89-39 cloth $4.25
7-89-40 paper $2.45
Materiales en Español[edit]
Oraciones Bahá’ís:
Selección de Oraciones Reveladas
por Bahá’u’lláh, El Báb, y ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Edición norteamericana ahora disponible a bajo costo. Oraciones para ayuda, niños, curación, firmeza, pruebas y dificultades, etc. Incluye además las oraciones obligatorias, la Tabla de Aḥmad, oraciones para la enseñanza, el matrimonio, y el entierro. 210 páginas.
7-93-13 papel $1.00 NET
New Reprint[edit]
The Open Door
Selections from the Bahá’í Writings on life after death. The booklet presents the subject in a positive, uplifting, and dignified manner. Can be used as a “sympathy card.” New design by John Solarz. 4¼ x 5¼ inches. 21 pp.
7-40-58 w/ envelopes $.75; 100/$70.00
7-40-59 without envelopes $.65; 100/$60.00
“Love That Child” Materials[edit]
The International Year of the Child
The Violence-Free Society:
A Gift For Our Children
By Hossain B. Danesh. A special “Year of the Child” issue of Bahá’í Studies. Discusses the causes of violence, its effects on society, and the Bahá’í community as a model for a violence-free society. Helpful reading for parents. Excellent for presentations to educators and local officials. Useful long after the Year of the Child. Illustrated. 9¾ x 6¾ inches. 44 pp.
7-41-21 paper $1.50; 10/$14.00 NET
“Love That Child” Sweatshirts
Parents! Teachers! Let everyone know that you “Love That Child” with these new short-sleeve sweatshirts. Comfortable, long-wearing. 92 percent cotton, 8 percent acrylic. The message helps open conversations with others, develop unity. Red and blue lettering on white fabric. While supply lasts.
6-99-23 adult small $8.50 NET
6-99-24 adult medium $8.50 NET
6-99-25 adult large $8.50 NET
6-99-26 adult x-large $8.50 NET
“Love That Child” T-Shirts
These new T-shirts make ideal gifts for children. The T-shirts are “Hanes” brand, white, 100 percent cotton, and printed with the red-and-blue “Love That Child” logo. The infant sizes are perfect for shower gifts. Attractively priced.
6-99-15 infants 6-12 mos. $3.25 NET
6-99-16 infants 1-2 yrs. $3.25 NET
6-99-17 child’s 6-8 $4.95 NET
6-99-18 child’s 10-12 $4.95 NET
6-99-19 child’s 14-16 $4.95 NET
Gift Ideas[edit]
Art, Music, Crafts, and more
‘Abdu’l-Bahá Art Print
By Haynes and Rosann McFadden. A lithograph of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá taken from a photo portrait. The original drawing is composed of many thousands of small hand-drawn dots. Printed on high-quality art paper. Suitable for framing. A welcome gift for Bahá’ís.
6-47-06 12 x 16 inches $10.00 NET
The Bahá’í House of Worship
Scratchboard Engraving
By Harlan Scheffler. An exquisite lithograph of the “Mother Temple of the West” reproduced from an original engraving that took about two-hundred hours to complete. Each black, grey, and white lithograph is individually signed by the artist. 14⅞ x 18½-inch image printed on a 19 x 25-inch sheet. Wide border for custom framing. A beautiful gift.
6-47-20 $30.00 NET
“Blessed Is The Spot” Cross-stitch Sampler
An easy-to-do craft project for adults and children ages 7 and up. Do it yourself and give it away, or give the unfinished kit to a friend or relative.
The kit contains: 100 percent cotton silk-screened with the quotation from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh beginning “Blessed is the spot . . .”; needle; 100 percent cotton embroidery floss; and printed instructions. Floral border in green, magenta, and yellow; lettering in black. Extra-large cross-stitches. An attractive decoration for homes of Bahá’ís and non-Bahá’ís. Frame not included. Designed by Vicky Hu. 19 x 25-inch pattern silk-screened on 22 x 28-inch fabric.
6-40-90 $12.00 NET
|
“Blessed is the spot, and the house, and the place, and the city, and the heart, and the mountain, and the refuge, and the cave, and the valley, and the land, and the sea, and the island, and the meadow where mention of God hath been made, and His praise glorified.” Bahá’u’lláh
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More gift ideas:
- Selected Writings of Bahá’u’lláh
- Lote Tree stereo LP
- Happy Ayyám-i-Há stereo LP
These and many other materials make excellent gifts for relatives and friends, Bahá’ís and non-Bahá’ís. See descriptions elsewhere in this catalog.
World Citizen T-Shirts
T-shirts with a message! The shirts are imprinted on the front with the words “World Citizen” and a symbol of the globe. Comfortable 100 percent cotton. Two colors: white on navy blue; black on tan. Some sizes no longer available. Order now for friends, relatives.
| Size | Tan | Blue | Price |
| Child’s 6-8 | — | 6-40-57 | $5.60 NET |
| Child’s 10-12 | 6-40-51 | — | $5.60 NET |
| Child’s 14-16 | 6-40-52 | 6-40-59 | $5.60 NET |
| Adult small | 6-40-53 | 6-40-60 | $6.70 NET |
| Adult medium | 6-40-54 | 6-40-61 | $6.70 NET |
| Adult large | 6-40-55 | 6-40-62 | $6.70 NET |
| Adult x-large | 6-40-56 | — | $6.70 NET |
Wilmette House of Worship Presidential Art Medal and Booklet
This handsome cast bronze medal makes a unique gift. Pictured on one side is the Wilmette House of Worship; on the other is a nine-pointed rosette bordered by two quotations from the Bahá’í Writings. The medal weighs a substantial 2.5 ounces, measures 1¾ inches in diameter, and is neatly packaged in a sturdy ivory-colored cardboard box. Includes an attractive 16-page booklet summarizing the history and basic teachings of the Faith. Give to new Bahá’ís, and to friends, relatives, on special occasions.
6-40-02 $7.50 NET
New Recordings[edit]
“Bahá’u’lláh, in this glorious period has revealed in Holy Tablets that singing and music are the spiritual food of the hearts and souls.”
- —‘Abdu’l-Bahá
- Bahá’í World Faith
The Hidden Words of Bahá’u’lláh
Sung by Donna Kime
New stereo LP by a well-known vocalist whose lyrical voice brings out the poetic beauty of Bahá’u’lláh’s Hidden Words. The subtle background of piano, guitar, dulcimer, bass, tambura, sitar, and other instruments provides a meditative setting for music and voice. Musicians and singer blend a flowing musical line with the divine words to create a “spiritual food” that fills the heart and soul. 12 selections.
6-35-14 stereo LP $7.50 NET
Plight
This popular stereo LP makes a thoughtful gift for many music lovers. The musical styles of the eleven groups on the album range from the soft sound of England Dan and John Ford Coley in “The Greatest Name” and “The Prisoner” to the rhythm and blues of John and Sharon Barnes. Fourteen songs.
6-35-09 $5.95
Waller Heath
Seals and Crofts
Lote Tree
An exciting new stereo LP that combines the talents of many well-known Bahá’ís, including
- William Sears, Hand of the Cause of God
- Seals and Crofts
- Walter Heath
- England Dan and John Ford Coley
- Russ Garcia, Danny Deardorff, and others
Side A features songs and narration about the Báb, Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Shoghi Effendi, and The Universal House of Justice. Mr. Sears’ stirring narration sets the perfect mood and helps the listener understand the significance of the Bahá’í Faith.
Side B features five selections including “The Prisoner,” “Forever Like the Rose,” “One Planet, One People, Please,” and “The Little Kings of Earth.” “The Seven Valleys” is sung by Seals and Crofts, their wives and families.
The back of the album cover features a brief introduction to the Faith. Perfect for gifts or for creating a Bahá’í atmosphere in your home. Also for deepenings, firesides, radio proclamations. Produced by Prism Productions to raise money for the international funds and as an artistic contribution to the Bahá’í community.
6-35-18 stereo LP $10.00
Happy Ayyám-i-Há
Just released—the first Bahá’í children’s album! Features Hand of the Cause of God William Sears, Bahá’í children, and professional musical accompanists. Mr. Sears talks to the children between selections, explaining the songs and the Bahá’í Faith in a warm and easy-to-understand way.
Nine songs on Bahá’í themes, including “God Loves the Best of Us,” “The Ayyám-i-Há Song,” “Oh ‘Abdu’l-Bahá,” “The Abha Kingdom,” and “Oh God, Educate These Children.” Printed lyrics enclosed.
An ideal gift for Bahá’í children and those familiar with the Bahá’í Faith. For deepening, teaching, lifting the spirits of kids and adults. Produced by Danny and Joyce Deardorff in cooperation with Prism Productions.
6-35-19 stereo LP $10.00
Other Selected Books[edit]
| Bahá’í Sacred Writings | ||
|---|---|---|
| 7-03-20 | Synopsis and Codification of the Laws and Ordinances of the Kitáb-i-Aqdas | cl $1.50 NET |
| 7-05-50 | Selections from the Writings of the Báb | cl $5.00 NET |
| 7-06-06 | The Secret of Divine Civilization, by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá | cl $7.50 |
| 7-15-07 | Bahá’í Prayers (Combined) | cl $3.75 |
| 7-15-08 | Bahá’í Prayers (Combined) | cl $1.00 NET |
| Works of Shoghi Effendi | ||
| 7-08-01 | The Advent of Divine Justice | cl $5.35 |
| 7-08-05 | Bahá’í Administration | p $3.25 |
| Introductions to the Bahá’í Faith | ||
| 7-31-05 | Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era | p $1.00 |
| 7-31-59 | The Bahá’í Faith: An Introduction | p $.65; 50/$27.50; 100/$37.50 |
| 7-31-96 | Bahá’í: Follower of the Light | p $1.25; 25/$25.00 NET |
