The American Bahá’í/Volume 10/Issue 6/Text
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House of Justice Launches Seven Year Plan[edit]
To the Bahá’ís of the World
Dearly-loved Friends,
The decline of religious and moral restraints has unleashed a fury of chaos and confusion that already bears the signs of universal anarchy. Engulfed in this maelstrom, the Bahá’í world community, pursuing with indefeasible unity and spiritual force its redemptive mission, inevitably suffers the disruption of economic, social and civil life which afflicts its fellow men throughout the planet.
It must also bear particular tribulations. The violent disturbances in Persia, coinciding with the gathering in of the bountiful harvest of the Five Year Plan, have brought new and cruel hardships to our long-suffering brethren in the Cradle of our Faith and confronted the Bahá’í world community with critical challenges to its life and work.
AS THE BAHÁ’Í world stood poised on the brink of victory, eagerly anticipating the next in the unfoldment of the Master’s Divine Plan, Bahá’u’lláh’s heroic compatriots, the custodians of the Holy Places of our Faith in the land of its birth, were yet again called upon to endure the passions of brutal mobs, the looting and burning of their homes, the destruction of their means of livelihood, and physical violence and threats of death to force them to recant their faith.
They, like their immortal forebears, the Dawn-Breakers, are standing steadfast in face of this new persecution and the ever-present threat of organized extermination.
Remembering that during the Five Year Plan the Persian friends far surpassed any other national community in their outpouring of pioneers and funds, we, in all those parts of the world where we are still free to promote the Cause of God, have the responsibility to make good their temporary inability to serve.
THEREFORE, with uplifted hearts and radiant faith, we must arise with redoubled energy to pursue our mighty task, confident that the Lord of Hosts will continue to reward our efforts with the same bountiful grace He vouchsafed to us in the Five Year Plan.
The teaching victories in that Plan have been truly prodigious; the points of light, those localities where the Promised One is recognized, have increased from sixty-nine thousand five hundred to over ninety-six thousand; the number of Local Spiritual Assemblies has grown from seventeen thousand to over twenty-five thousand; eighteen new National Spiritual Assemblies have been formed. The final report will disclose in all their manifold aspects the magnitude of the victories won.
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
See HOUSE, Page 6
The Hands of the Cause of God John Robarts (left) and Zikrullah Khadem exchange greetings at the 70th U.S. National Convention as Continental Counsellor Yan Kee Leong of South East Asia looks on.
Convention Extols Victory, Lays Plan’s Groundwork[edit]
Nearly 2,000 Bahá’ís gathered at the 70th annual U.S. National Convention April 26-29 to elect the National Spiritual Assembly, consult on matters of vital interest to the American Bahá’í community, celebrate an “explosion of victories” that marked the final year of the Five Year Plan, and launch a new Seven Year global teaching Plan decreed by the Universal House of Justice.
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On the Inside... THE FIVE YEAR PLAN ends on a high note as every U.S. goal is won or surpassed. Page 4. EIGHT YOUTH enjoy the spring Work/Study Project at the Bahá’í National Center. Page 5. FORTY-SEVEN dedicated volunteer workers receive the first Corinne True Award for Meritorious Service. Page 7. THE 70TH BAHÁ’Í NATIONAL CONVENTION is captured photographically. Pages 10 and 11. THE NATIONAL EDUCATION COMMITTEE lists U.S. Bahá’í Summer Schools. Pages 12 and 13. |
This year’s Convention, held in part at the Ramada O’Hare Inn near Chicago’s O’Hare Airport as well as at the Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette, was blessed by the presence of three Hands of the Cause of God: Zikrullah Khadem, John Robarts and William Sears.
OTHERS attending included three members of the Continental Board of Counsellors in North America—Dr. Sarah M. Pereira, Velma W. Sherrill and Edna M. True—and Counsellor Yan Kee Leong from South East Asia.
They and the other 1,850 believers at this historic Convention were thrilled to hear the National Spiritual Assembly disclose in its annual report that “all the statistical goals of the Five Year Plan assigned to the United States were achieved and even exceeded.”
See CONVENTION, Page 14
National Fund Deficit Erased[edit]
A mighty outpouring of financial resources occurred during the final month of the Five Year Plan, obliterating previous participation and contribution records.
A total of 4,127 individuals, 916 Local Spiritual Assemblies and 365 Groups united to contribute $404,000 to the National Fund, more than double the monthly goal of $190,000 and enough to assure that the American Bahá’í community begins the new Seven Year Plan with a clean financial slate.
The dramatic last-minute surge in contributions, said a spokesman for the National Treasurer’s Office, offers an inspiring demonstration of the principle that “... large numbers of small sums combine into a mighty river that can carry along the work of the Cause.”
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U.S. Goals Announced For Plan’s First Phase To the Bahá’ís of the United States Dear Bahá’í Friends, Contemplating the achievements of the last five years in the United States we applaud the American Bahá’í community for the enthusiastic response it has given to its National Spiritual Assembly’s call for all-out activity. This momentum must be maintained by all Local Spiritual Assemblies, groups and individual believers to guard the victories won and to launch the initial phase of the Seven Year Plan. We now call upon you, the foremost executors of the Mandate issued by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to pursue the objectives set forth in our message to the Bahá’ís of the world, and specifically to: • RAISE THE of localities where Bahá’ís reside to at least 7,200; • Raise the number of Local Spiritual Assemblies to at least 1,650, including at least 35 on Indian Reservations; • Ensure the adoption of extension teaching goals by at least 700 Local Spiritual Assemblies; • Continue to extend to other states the special teaching plans and consolidation activities designed to attract greater numbers to the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh in the states of California, Illinois, New York, and in the District of Columbia, and aim at doubling the membership of Bahá’ís in the latter four; • Increase the use of press, radio and television for the proclamation of the Faith; • INTENSIFY the teaching work amongst minorities; • Provide for and ensure the establishment of classes for the Bahá’í education of children throughout the country; • Emphasize the participation of Bahá’í youth in teaching and consolidation activities, and for carrying the Faith to their generation; • Stimulate individual believers and local communities to follow ever more faithfully the Bahá’í way of life, and to this end engage in a nationwide program of spiritual enrichment designed to inspire and deepen the friends through such activities as institutes, weekend conferences, seminars and locally-sponsored classes; • Continue to foster cordial relations with leaders of thought and those in authority, familiarizing them with the basic tenets of the Faith; • CONSOLIDATE the Turks and Caicos Islands; • Consolidate the Faith in the Falkland Islands; • Assist the Bahá’ís of Bermuda to raise their number of Local Spiritual Assemblies to at least seven in preparation for the establishment of their National Spiritual Assembly during the Seven Year Plan; • Circumstances permitting, develop the teaching work in Kazakhstan and in the Ukraine. Our loving prayers are with you as you set out with renewed vigour on this next stage in your glorious mission for the development of the Cause of God. With loving Bahá’í greetings, The Universal House of Justice
Naw-Rúz 1979 |
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Editorial The paper prepared by the Research Department at the World Centre on how the Bahá’í scholar should approach intellectual investigation, published in the accompanying issue of the Bahá’í National Review, warrants careful examination by all Bahá’ís. Regardless of the extent of one’s formal education, we all are enjoined to seek an ever-increasing understanding of Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation. In this sense we all strive to become scholars of the Faith and thus the comments of the Research Department are relevant to each of us. One of the questions prompting the writing of the paper was whether a Bahá’í, when studying the Faith, should hold his beliefs in abeyance to ensure real objectivity. Most Bahá’ís will find the question peculiar, if not farcical, since it seems so obvious that Bahá’u’lláh’s Teachings are the source of all understanding. To try to ignore what one has already come to understand to be true is to inject an element of schizophrenia into one’s thinking that negates the essential oneness of truth itself. However, we need to understand that in the world of contemporary scholarship, one’s credibility is lost if one allows his personal beliefs to influence his academic research. This mindset has led some students of the Faith to question whether, when studying the Faith itself, one’s own convictions ought to be suspended. One of the characteristics of Divine Revelation is that it brings mankind an entirely new world-view that transforms the human outlook and illumines man’s understanding of the perplexing problems of the age. The essence of the Bahá’í world-view is unity: the singleness of God, the unity of religions, the oneness of mankind, the equality of the sexes, the harmony of science and religion. To be a Bahá’í is to bring the light of unity to bear on every facet of life. Just as a Bahá’í working in business, for example, would strive to eradicate prejudice and promote the oneness of the races and the equality of the sexes, so the Bahá’í scholar would strive to honor the unity of science and religion and refuse to give credence to a false dichotomy like faith vs. reason, however strong the pressures from his colleagues. The paper from the Research Department is timely, for it coincides with the Seven Year Plan message that for the first time focuses on intellectual development as an integral part of Bahá’í life. Already we have valuable direction from the World Centre that will be quite useful as we begin to tackle this aspect of the Plan in the months and years ahead. As we strive to develop the intellectual life of the Bahá’í community, let us remember that in this Revelation the learned are distinguished not only by their learning but also by their humility. Bahá’u’lláh, having divested the learned of authority, has made their influence commensurate with the power of their ideas and not the power of their personalities. To be humble when moving in the world of ideas is to pay homage to the truth of the verse, “The source of all learning is the knowledge of God, exalted be His Glory, and this cannot be attained save through the knowledge of His Divine Manifestation.” |
Delegates and visitors to the 70th Bahá’í National Convention enter the Bahá’í House of Worship to offer prayers. This year’s Convention was held at the House of Worship and at the Ramada O’Hare Inn near Chicago’s O’Hare Airport.
Letters to the Editor
Traveler Finds Teaching Opportunities Plentiful[edit]
Dear Friends:
March 2-3 brought back to me Shoghi Effendi’s statement: “In his daily activities and contacts, in all his journeys, whether for business or otherwise, on his holidays and outings ... every bearer of the Message of Bahá’u’lláh should consider it not only an obligation but a privilege to scatter far and wide the seeds of His Faith ...” (The Advent of Divine Justice, p. 44)
I was attending a business convention in Dallas, Texas, and had prayed that I would be led to someone I could teach.
I DID NOT dream that I would find four waiting souls along the way who not only were eager to hear the Message, but were ready to enroll “on the spot.”
First, an 18-year-old Air Force man on the flight to Dallas declared.
Since there was no one else on my bus from the airport to the convention, I taught the bus driver, and he also declared.
At the convention I was drawn to a young woman whose boyfriend also is a salesman.
After hearing of the Faith she too declared, and over lunch the two of us taught her friend and one other person. Both of them are studying the Faith.
WOW! I thought. This is more than I could have hoped for.
Because my return flight from Dallas was delayed, I was able to teach a woman from Des Moines, Iowa, who also declared.
While in Dallas, I contacted its Assembly and those in Fort Worth and El Paso so they could follow up on the new Bahá’ís from there. I also sent literature and a letter to each of them as soon as I had returned home.
It is wonderful to be able to share these personal teaching experiences. I feel it might be helpful to some of the friends who travel.
Many people are ready to accept Bahá’u’lláh if we make the mandate of teaching the “all-pervading concern” in our lives as the Guardian urged us to do.
Jacksonville, Illinois
Dear Friends:
In response to several recent letters concerning women and professions:
I think a good many points have been made on all sides of the question—in fact, perhaps too many have been made.
I think the Bahá’í attitude toward women in careers or professions can be simply stated without leaving room for interpretation, elaboration, or the emphasis of one point of view over another.
Simply stated, the whole message of the Bahá’í Faith is that there must—and will— be an end to stereotyping.
There are no stereotypical women, no stereotypical men, no stereotypical professions for either, no stereotypical blacks, Jews, Orientals, Frenchmen, secretaries, engineers, or anything else.
For fun, it may be interesting to make generalizations, but when we begin to take such generalizations too seriously, we are sowing the seeds of prejudice instead of allowing room for individual differences, the “deviation from the norm,” if you will, to grow and develop naturally as God intended they should.
In the final analysis, each of us is unique—“all have been endowed with talents and faculties”—but we are also alike—“all have been endowed with talents and faculties.”
Bahá’u’lláh has not dictated to us the category from which we should or must choose a profession. All must work and be of service to humanity, but it remains a matter of individual conscience as to how each of us, man or woman, fulfills those obligations.
It depends on individual talents and interests, and how they can best be combined to serve God and humanity. We cannot dictate suitable or unsuitable professions to each other.
It is good to be aware of feminine and masculine qualities. They exist. The terms “masculine” and “feminine” are tools that help us to understand ourselves, our world, and God’s purpose for each of us.
Let us not, however, be so aware of these qualities that we allow them to dictate to us (as Old World societies have) our decisions or actions. Let us not lose sight of the individual, created in God’s image to reflect the attributes of God, the unknowable Essence Who cannot be defined as either masculine or feminine.
Any Bahá’í man or woman can be anything he or she wants to be, provided ... the person is motivated by a love of God and desire to serve humanity, is proficient in the chosen profession, and the profession isn’t against the law.
Silver Spring, Maryland
Dear Friends:
As the author of a recent letter about the distinctiveness of community service-oriented jobs such as teacher, nurse and secretary, and their direct relation to those precious qualities of women who, traditionally, have held such positions, I have been reading with great interest additional letters on this topic.
The two letters that appeared in your April issue were especially endearing, and I am moved to express my joy and appreciation of the maturity of our Bahá’í community when deepening together.
These letters, I feel, have presented an all-encompassing view of the important role of the woman in humanizing and spiritualizing the world.
Special thanks to my two fellow Bahá’ís who wrote the most recent letters, and to The American Bahá’í for providing the opportunity to explore this issue together.
Noble, Oklahoma
Contributions Include Inspiring Messages[edit]
Along with all the cash, checks and money orders, many of the National Fund envelopes received by the Office of the Treasurer in the final weeks of the Five Year Plan included messages of inspiration, love and joy.
One young family’s contribution included this message:
“Our oldest son said he is giving up cookies for two weeks to help. His name is Eric, and he is three and one-half years old.”
ONE WOMAN wrote, “My husband and I received a tax refund the day the letter about our National Treasury arrived in the mail. We couldn’t help but enjoy the ‘irony’ of those two pieces of mail arriving the same day, and we happily sent the refund to help our National Fund achieve its goal.”
Many of the notes came from older believers, such as this one:
“Ill health has forced me to curtail most of my activities, but my prayers never cease. We must not let the Beloved One of God down. Our tests are only beginning, and we must pray for strength from all sources and let nothing deter us.”
Equally inspiring was the letter sent by a son on his parents’ behalf. Its brief message read:
“HAPPY victorious Riḍván! My beloved parents at the age of 86 are very concerned about our National Fund. They are praying fervently that by Riḍván we can overcome the deficit. Here is their contribution.”
Youth also responded to the call. One Bahá’í Youth Club sent a letter that said, “This is in response to your letter about the lack of funds for the Five Year Plan. We are sorry to hear of the National Fund not reaching its goal in any of the past months. We also are deeply aware of the serious situation of the Iranian Bahá’ís and of its effect on the International Fund.
“Our youth club sincerely wishes victory in all aspects of the Five Year Plan. Therefore, we are contributing this modest sum collected in our last meeting.
“ALONG with the material contribution go our prayers for the progress of the Faith. We hope other Bahá’í communities, clubs, and individuals are as inspired as we were.”
Children, the elderly, couples and clubs—all combine to create the “mighty river” that carries along the work of the Cause.
All the recent contributions, whether accompanied by a message or not, give evidence of the capacity of the American community to arise and play its part in the continual unfoldment of God’s great Plan.
Perhaps nowhere was this spirit more vividly reflected than in the following letter:
“Beloved Friends:
“THIS ISN’T very much, but it is outwardly more than we can appear to afford right now. You see, my husband has been ill for many months and we have been struggling with very difficult circumstances.
“We see now how foolish our struggle was, for when it appeared that all was at its worst and there was no hope left, by the grace of God and the extreme wisdom and patience of our Assembly, everything has changed.
“We’ve always believed that it is truly impossible to make a sacrifice to this Cause, for God always stays ahead of us in generosity. However, we would like to try to make another small sacrifice, even knowing that God always turns our sacrifices into rewards.
“Please accept this contribution with all our love and prayers for the advancement of this beloved Cause.”
National Bahá’í Fund
Contributions
Treasurer Courses Stress Need for Sound Planning[edit]
In its Naw-Rúz message announcing the new Seven Year Plan, the Universal House of Justice appealed “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.”
The National Spiritual Assembly was delighted to receive this guidance, for such has been the focus of two courses recently made available to the American Bahá’í community by the Office of the Treasurer.
Kurt Hein, a staff member at that office, said that the recent message from the Universal House of Justice should spark more interest in the programs, entitled “The Secret of Wealth” and “The Surest Way.” Up to now, he noted, some people have been reluctant to attend these programs.
“A TYPICAL response to the courses,” said Mr. Hein, “has been, ‘Oh, no! Not another boring discussion of the Fund!’ But at the end of a course, the reaction is almost always one of pleasure—‘It’s really too bad that more Bahá’ís don’t understand what you’re doing—we need more courses like this.’
“Wherever we give ‘The Secret of Wealth,’ our course about personal resource management, the friends are delighted to know that the National Spiritual Assembly is concerned about such ‘practical matters’ as family finances. They are genuinely surprised and pleased that we aren’t offering just ‘another boring presentation’ on the Fund.”
The first part of the course, he explained, deals with budgeting and taking care of one’s regular living expenses—figuring out how to pay the bills, save a little, and, of course, be able to contribute to the Fund.
The course also explores the concept of lifestyle, how a Bahá’í resolves the apparent conflict between material and spiritual matters.
THE COURSE is completed by examining the individual’s sources of permanent wealth beyond money. These include family, friends, the Writings, and a number of other surprising “resources.”
Mr. Hein described the other course, “The Surest Way,” as a response to the Guardian’s appeal for the American Bahá’í community to overcome the negative forces of materialism.
“Shoghi Effendi made it quite clear,” he said, “that we are to demonstrate that the message of Bahá’u’lláh has the power to overcome the negative influence of materialism.
“However, we sometimes don’t know exactly what that means. ‘The Surest Way’ helps provide a clearer understanding of the meaning of materialism, the ways it affects our daily lives, and what we as Bahá’ís can do to control its influence.”
BESIDES exploring the concept of materialism, the course discusses the role of money in the New World Order, the individual believer as the most important resource of the Faith, and the relationship between the Fund and the various Bahá’í institutions.
“The Secret of Wealth,” said Mr. Hein, will be presented August 13–17 at the Green Acre Bahá’í School, and August 12–17 at the Louis G. Gregory Bahá’í Institute.
“The Surest Way” will be presented at the Arizona Bahá’í Summer School, and also is available to local communities through their National Treasurer’s Representative.
The Fund box was very much in evidence at the Bahá’í National Convention, and the steady flow of contributions brought a smile to the face of Stephen Jackson (center), assistant to the National Treasurer.
How Should Couples Contribute?[edit]
Question: How should married couples contribute to the Bahá’í Fund so that both can be counted toward the individual participation goal?
Answer: Enclose a note with your contribution listing each person’s name, Bahá’í identification number, and the amount of his or her contribution. (For example: William Keith, I.D. No. 9999, $10.) In this way, only one check need be sent, but both people will be credited with a contribution. If this is done, each person will then receive a receipt and an envelope for his or her next contribution.
Goals Won as Friends End Plan in High Gear[edit]
The U.S. Bahá’í community not only won but surpassed the Five Year Plan goals of 7,000 localities where Bahá’ís reside, 1,400 Local Spiritual Assemblies, and 400 incorporated Assemblies.
The goals were won through the sacrifice of many individual believers who arose selflessly in the final months of the Plan to teach with steadfastness and conviction.
AS OF APRIL 20, when the Plan drew to its close, there were 7,041 localities open to the Faith in the U.S., 1,488 Local Spiritual Assemblies, and 414 incorporated Assemblies reported.
Illinois, one of the three key states singled out for special teaching emphasis, began the Plan with 36 Local Spiritual Assemblies and a goal of 99.
At the end of the Plan, there were 86 Local Spiritual Assemblies in Illinois. Localities were increased during the Plan from 261 to 385, according to the Illinois Regional Teaching Committee. The goal was 400.
California entered the Plan with a goal of 265 Assemblies, and ended it only four short of the goal.
California’s locality goal was 708; the total at the end of the Plan stood at 607. Every county in the state except one is now open to the Faith.
NEW YORK, which had 26 Local Assemblies at the outset of the Plan, now boasts 45 of its goal of 56. One of these Assemblies is on the St. Regis Indian Reservation.
New York opened 322 of its goal of 360 localities.
Hooshmand Taraz, who was chairman of the Spiritual Assembly of New York City, pioneered to Larchmont, New York, to open that locality during the final weeks of the Plan.
In those last few weeks the Bahá’ís in New York State opened seven counties, all through new enrollments, thus opening every county in the state and completing that goal of the Plan.
IN NORTH Georgia and South Carolina, deepened, experienced Bahá’ís traveled long distances to help their Bahá’í brothers and sisters in areas with less experienced Assemblies re-form at Riḍván.
In this way, South Carolina was able to form 198 Assemblies in only three days. It experienced the largest growth in Assemblies of any state during the Five Year Plan.
In north Georgia, Bahá’í teachers worked tirelessly to open new localities and assure the formation of Assemblies.
Nancy Searcy of North Fulton County and Candy Grant of Roswell set out to open at least one locality a day in north Georgia during the Fast.
After achieving that goal with the help of other friends, they finally opened 50 localities from the first day of the Fast to Riḍván.
Georgia, north and south, now has 86 Local Spiritual Assemblies and 327 localities opened to the Faith.
Candy Grant (left) and Nancy Searcy explain at the National Convention how they helped open more than 50 localities in north Georgia to the Faith from the beginning of the Fast to the first day of Riḍván.
Green Lake Slates 19th Annual Bahá’í Conference[edit]
The 19th annual Green Lake Bahá’í Conference will be held September 14–16 at the American Baptist Assembly in Green Lake, Wisconsin.
Among the featured speakers will be Dr. Dorothy W. Nelson, treasurer of the National Spiritual Assembly.
Other highlights of the conference will include historic presentations, special guests, and an original musical production created especially for the occasion.
The conference site is on 1,000 acres of rolling hills and woodland. The main meeting and dining rooms are nestled on a lakefront.
Accommodations run from plush lakeside houses for up to 10 people at $140 a day to campsites in the nearby woods at $8 a site.
There are hotel rooms, dormitories, cottages, and even a converted barn available. Room rates at the Inn range from $10 to $21 per person per night. Other rates are available from the registrar.
This year, for the first time, the cost of accommodations is separate from meal costs. Now you may purchase only the meals you want, instead of paying automatically for three meals with a night’s lodging.
Dining room meal costs for adults are: breakfast, $2.30; lunch, $3.20; dinner, $4.75. For children ages 6 to 11, the cost is: breakfast, $1.25; lunch, $1.90; dinner, $3.10. There is no charge for children 5 years of age or under.
A cooperative nursery, children’s classes allowing for separate classrooms for five or six levels, and a youth program are included in the conference.
All available cabins, cottages and private homes (all of which have cooking facilities) have been reserved for Bahá’ís only until July 15. After that date, these bargain lodgings will be made available to others, so please reserve yours as soon as possible.
For complete details about housing, camping and other aspects of the conference, write to the Green Lake American Baptist Assembly, Green Lake, WI 54941, or phone 414-294-3323.
Overseas Goals Are Disclosed[edit]
The International Goals Committee has received the worldwide goals for the first two-year phase of the Seven Year Plan.
In providing the list of territories to receive pioneers and traveling teachers, the Universal House of Justice made this comment:
“THE NEED for the services of pioneers and traveling teachers remains very great. In the goals for the initial two-year phase of the Plan few specific assignments for the sending of pioneers and traveling teachers have been made.
“In recent years a steady stream has begun to flow, and the Universal House of Justice calls upon the followers of Bahá’u’lláh in the stronger national communities to arise to join this stream.”
Those who are interested in international pioneering or traveling and teaching in this initial two-year phase of the Plan should write to the International Goals Committee, as this is the agency appointed by the National Spiritual Assembly to coordinate and process such activities.
The committee will be able to guide you concerning the various needs and requirements of such a venture. Its address is 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091.
A Recognition Ceremony for the recently-formed Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Hemet, California, was held February 10. Among the friends from several communities who attended were Auxiliary Board members Joyce Dahl and Fred Schechter. Members of the Assembly include (left to right) Yvonne Dean, David Risvold, Marie Blanchard, Henry Halicki, Alyce Baumgartner, Durward Dean, Cynthia Berman. Assembly members Elizabeth Revan and Mildred Sherin were absent when the photo was taken.
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Do you like to design cartoons? The National Youth Committee would like to have cartoons appear each month in the “Vanguard” youth section. If you have ideas for cartoons giving the “lighter side” of Bahá’í youth subjects, please submit samples of your work to the National Youth Committee, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091. |
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VANGUARD Youth News |
Youth Enjoy Spring Work/Study Project[edit]
The National Youth Committee’s Spring Work/Study Project, held March 26–April 1 at the Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois, drew eight youth, seven of them from the South.
The spring project was the first of three to be held this year.
Participants were Donna Brown, Lisa Brown, Lucius DeBose, Regina DeBose, Glen Jeter and Tracey Jeter, all from Spartanburg, South Carolina; Anita Miller from Atlanta, Georgia; and Delcia Hoffman from Lincoln, Nebraska.
IT MARKED the first visit to the House of Worship for all the youth, and proved to be an exciting and enlightening experience for each of them.
The projecteers were welcomed at a party sponsored by the North Shore Bahá’í Youth Club. The South Carolina youth entertained the local youth with songs, and later everyone enjoyed dancing.
The week was spent working in various offices at the Bahá’í National Center. Each of the youth had an opportunity to work in several offices and to experience the wide variety of jobs at the Center: typing, arranging chairs in Foundation Hall, learning computers, guiding at the House of Worship, doing research.
Said one youth: “The people at the National Center don’t play around—they get down to business.”
ANOTHER way the youth learned about the National Center was through classes that were held each day.
These “classes” were more a series of learning experiences, since they included such diverse activities as listening to talks by National Spiritual Assembly members Glenford E. Mitchell and Magdalene M. Carney, touring the House of Worship, seeing slides of the West African Bahá’í Women’s Conference, and discussing teaching methods.
At the end of the week, the North Shore Bahá’í Youth Club hosted a dance/party for the projecteers. More than 50 people attended.
The youth also attended the presentation of the first “Corinne True Awards for Meritorious Service” presented to individuals who have given special service over the years at the House of Worship.
ALL OF THE youth left Wilmette with their own special memories and feelings about what they had done and seen and the people they had met. Yet each of them might agree with one youth who said:
“The project was truly an experience as well as a pleasure. One could never know as much about the Administration unless he or she could have been here. Because of the project, I’ve learned to appreciate and respect the Bahá’í Administration more. So much love and effort (hard work) are put forth. We’re not even aware of it.”
Two Work/Study Projects are scheduled this summer: one from July 1–8 and the other from August 19–26. A mailer about them is being sent to all Bahá’í youth in the U.S.
If you’re considering participating in a project, you might keep in mind these words from one of the spring projecteers:
“I recommend that anyone having a chance to come shouldn’t turn it down. The people are friendly and make you feel welcome right away.”
Bahá’í youth attending the Spring Work/Study Project at the Bahá’í House of Worship were welcomed at a party sponsored by the North Shore Bahá’í Youth Club.
Bahá’í youth engage in an animated discussion during a class at the Oregon Youth Conference held last March near Dorena Lake. Forty-one youth and nine adults attended the conference.
Oregon Hosts Youth Gathering[edit]
The New Life Youth Camp near Dorena Lake, Oregon, was the site March 22–25 of a statewide Bahá’í Youth Conference sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Cottage Grove, Oregon.
Forty-one youth and nine adults attended the conference whose classes were directed toward living a Bahá’í life, withstanding peer pressure, and being a Bahá’í in today’s world.
Vinson Brown, a naturalist, author and publisher, was guest lecturer, speaking on Indian prophecy.
The film, “It’s Just the Beginning,” was shown, and the tape by Dr. Daniel C. Jordan on “Peer Pressure” was used.
Wendy Suhm, a member of the National Youth Committee, attended the conference and participated in the discussions.
One non-Bahá’í took time off from her job, without pay, to help in the kitchen. At the close of the conference, she and her 15-year-old son declared their belief in Bahá’u’lláh.
Italy Offers Summer School Invitation[edit]
The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Italy invites the friends in the U.S. to attend this year’s Italian Bahá’í Summer Schools September 1–8 and September 9–16 at Scalea (Cosenza) on the coast of Calabria.
The Hand of the Cause of God John Robarts will participate in both schools. The classes will center around the Báb, the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, and Islam.
Reservations must be received no later than July 10.
For more information please contact the International Goals Committee, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091.
Teaching, Learning Goals For S. Carolina Youth[edit]
Youth on the Way
My name is Renni Bailey. I’m 16 years old and live in Summerville, South Carolina. My parents became Bahá’ís when I was about six years old.
Since I’ve declared I want to be as active as possible. Last summer I participated in a youth project at the Louis G. Gregory Bahá’í Institute. Also, from October 1978 to January 1979 I traveled and taught throughout South Carolina on weekends and holidays.
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Youth on the Way |
TEACHING is so rewarding, especially when you know you’re doing one of the greatest things for the Cause.
Life is like a seed; once you’ve planted it, you have to water it, give it sun, fertilize it. If you let the seed dry out it will die and won’t produce any fruit.
In December I took part in the Winter Work/Study Project at the House of Worship. I met some life-long friends there and learned so much. When I undertake trips for the Faith I realize I’m widening my understanding of the Faith and trying to learn as much as possible about it.
I attend Summerville Intermediate High where I am on the Student Council.
OFTEN I’ll bring a Bahá’í book to school and start to read it in front of my friends.
They usually begin to ask questions like, “What do you believe in?” or “Why do you fast?”
I gave a report on the Faith in my speech class. I told there about the Báb, Bahá’u’lláh, and progressive revelation, and said Bahá’ís are trying to eliminate prejudice.
The youth in our area have formed a Youth Club, and I’ve been elected chairperson. It’s a small club, but hopefully it will grow. We have many plans for the future.
I want to go to college and become a psychologist. Education is a light from darkness. It is the way from ignorance.
Bahá’ís need to obtain the best possible education. When you are educated, you become more aware of the problems in the world, and are more likely to try and help solve them or make others aware of them.
Pioneering to another country is one of my main goals. I’d especially love to work with children and to deepen them. Pioneering would be such a challenge!
I’m striving every day to be a better Bahá’í. Bahá’ís are supposed to recommend the proper remedy for the world’s ills.
Life is for us to make better than it was before. This is progress, continually growing and adding more knowledge. This gift from God is never to be forgotten.
RENNI BAILEY
‘I’m Striving Every Day’
House of Justice Discloses Seven Year Plan Goals[edit]
Continued From Page 1
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.
ADVISED, stimulated and supported by this vital arm of the Administrative Order, 125 National Spiritual Assemblies are rapidly acquiring experience and growing in wisdom as they administer the complex affairs of their respective communities as organic parts of one world-wide fellowship.
More and more Local Spiritual Assemblies are becoming strong focal centres of local Bahá’í communities and firm pillars of the National Spiritual Assembly in each land. Even in those countries where the Bahá’í Administration cannot operate or has had to be disbanded, countries to which have now been added Afghanistan, the Congo Republic, Niger, Uganda and Vietnam, the believers, while obedient to their governments, nevertheless staunchly keep alive the flame of faith.
Beyond the expansion of the community, vital as it is, the Five Year Plan witnessed great progress in the spiritual development of the friends, the growing maturity and wisdom of Local and National Assemblies, and in the degree to which Bahá’í communities embody the distinguishing characteristics of Bahá’í life and attract, by their unity, their steadfastness, their radiance and good reputation, the interest and eventual wholehearted support of their fellow citizens. This is the magnet which will attract the masses to the Cause of God, and the leaven that will transform human society.
THE CONDITIONS of the world present the followers of Bahá’u’lláh with both obstacles and opportunities. In an increasing number of countries we are witnessing the fulfilment of the warnings that the writings of our Faith contain.
“Peoples, nations, adherents of divers faiths,” the beloved Guardian wrote, “will jointly and successively arise to shatter its unity, to sap its force, and to degrade its holy name. They will assail not only the spirit which it inculcates, but the administration which is the channel, the instrument, the embodiment of that spirit. For as the authority with which Bahá’u’lláh has invested the future Bahá’í Commonwealth becomes more and more apparent, the fiercer shall be the challenge which from every quarter will be thrown at the verities it enshrines.”
In different countries, in varying degrees, the followers of Bahá’u’lláh at this very hour are undergoing such attacks, and are facing imprisonment and even martyrdom rather than deny the Truth for whose sake the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh drained the cup of sacrifice.
IN OTHER LANDS, such as those in Western Europe, the faithful believers have to struggle to convey the message in the face of widespread indifference, materialistic self-satisfaction, cynicism and moral degradation.
These friends, however, still have freedom to teach the Faith in their homelands, and in spite of the discouraging meagreness of outward results they continue to proclaim the Message of Bahá’u’lláh to their fellow citizens, to raise high the reputation of the Cause in the public eye, to acquaint leaders of thought and those in authority with its true tenets, and to spare no effort to seek out those receptive souls in every town and village who will respond to the divine summons and devote their lives to its service.
In many lands, however, there is an eager receptivity for the teachings of the Faith. The challenge for the Bahá’ís is to provide these thousands of seeking souls, as swiftly as possible, with the spiritual food that they crave, to enlist them under the banner of Bahá’u’lláh, to nurture them in the way of life He has revealed, and to guide them to elect Local Spiritual Assemblies which, as they begin to function strongly, will unite the friends in firmly consolidated Bahá’í communities and become beacons of guidance and havens of refuge to mankind.
FACED BY such a combination of danger and opportunity, the Bahá’ís, confident in the ultimate triumph of God’s purpose for mankind, raise their eyes to the goals of a new Seven Year Plan.
In the Holy Land the strengthening of the World Centre and the augmentation of its worldwide influence must continue:
• The Seat of the Universal House of Justice will be completed and designs will be adopted for the remaining three buildings of the World Administrative Centre of the Faith.
• The Institution of the International Teaching Centre will be developed and its functions expanded. This will require an increase in its membership and the assumption by it and by the Continental Boards of Counsellors of wider functions in the stimulation on an international scale of the propagation and consolidation of the Faith, and in the promotion of the spiritual, intellectual and community aspects of Bahá’í life.
• THE HOUSE of ‘Abdu’lláh Páshá in ‘Akká will be opened to pilgrimage.
• Work will be continued on the collation and classification of the Sacred Texts and a series of compilations gleaned and translated from the writings of the Faith will be sent out to the Bahá’í world to help in deepening the friends in their understanding of the fundamentals of the Faith, enriching their spiritual lives, and reinforcing their efforts to teach the Cause.
• The ties binding the Bahá’í International Community to the United Nations will be further developed.
• Continued efforts will be made to protect the Faith from opposition and to emancipate it from the fetters of persecution.
EACH NATIONAL Spiritual Assembly has been given goals for these first two years of the Plan, designed to continue the process of expansion, to consolidate the victories won, and to attain, where circumstances permit, any goals that may have had to remain unaccomplished at the end of the Five Year Plan. During these first two years we shall be examining, with the Continental Boards of Counsellors and National Spiritual Assemblies, the conditions and possibilities in each country, and shall be considering in detail the capacities and needs of each of the rapidly differentiating national Bahá’í communities before formulating further goals towards which each community is to work following the opening phase of the Plan.
Throughout the world the Seven Year Plan must witness the attainment of the following objectives:
• The Mashriqu’l-Adhkár of Samoa is to be completed and progress will be made in the construction of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár in India.
• Nineteen new National Spiritual Assemblies are to be brought into being: eight in Africa, those of Angola, Bophuthatswana, the Cape Verde Islands, Gabon, Mali, Mozambique, Namibia and Transkei; eight in the Americas, those of Bermuda, Dominica, French Guiana, Grenada, the Leeward Islands, Martinique, St. Lucia and St. Vincent; and three in the Pacific, those of the Cook Islands, Tuvalu and the West Caroline Islands. Those National Spiritual Assemblies which have had to be dissolved will, circumstances permitting, be reestablished.
• THE MESSAGE of Bahá’u’lláh must be taken to territories and islands which are as yet unopened to His Faith.
• The teaching work, both that organized by institutions of the Faith and that which is the fruit of individual initiative, must be actively carried forward so that there will be growing numbers of believers, leading more countries to the stage of entry by troops and ultimately to mass conversion.
• This teaching work must include prompt, thorough and continuing consolidation so that all victories will be safeguarded, the number of Local Spiritual Assemblies will be increased and the foundations of the Cause reinforced.
• The interchange of pioneers and travelling teachers, which contributes so importantly to the unity of the Bahá’í world and to a true understanding of the oneness of mankind, must continue, especially between neighbouring lands. At the same time, each national Bahá’í community must aspire to a rapid achievement of self-sufficiency in carrying out its vital activities, thus acquiring the capacity to continue to function and grow even if outside help is cut off.
• ESPECIALLY in finance is the attainment of independence by national Bahá’í communities urgent. Already the persecutions in Iran have deprived the believers in that country of the bounty of contributing to the international funds of the Faith, of which they have been a major source. Economic disruption in other countries threatens further diminution of 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.
• For the prompt achievement of all the goals and the healthy growth of Bahá’í community life National Spiritual Assemblies must pay particular attention to the efficient functioning, in the true spirit of the Faith, of their national committees and other auxiliary institutions, and, in consultation with the Continental Boards of Counsellors, must conceive and implement programs that will guide and reinforce the efforts of the friends in the path of service.
• National Spiritual Assemblies must promote wise and dignified approaches to people prominent in all areas of human endeavour, acquainting them with the nature of the Bahá’í community and the basic tenets of the Faith, and winning their esteem and friendship.
• AT THE HEART of all activities, the spiritual, intellectual and community life of the believers must be developed and fostered, requiring: the prosecution with increased vigour of the development of Local Spiritual Assemblies so that they may exercise their beneficial influence and guidance of the life of Bahá’í communities; the nurturing of a deeper understanding of Bahá’í family life; the Bahá’í education of children, including the holding of regular Bahá’í classes and, where necessary, the establishment of tutorial schools for the provision of elementary education; the encouragement of Bahá’í youth in study and service; and the encouragement of Bahá’í women to exercise to the full their privileges and responsibilities in the work of the community—May they befittingly bear witness to the memory of the Greatest Holy Leaf, the immortal heroine of the Bahá’í Dispensation, as we approach the fiftieth anniversary of her passing.
As lawlessness spreads in the world, as governments rise and fall, as rival groups and feuding peoples struggle, each for its own advantage, the plight of the oppressed and the deprived wrings the heart of every true Bahá’í, tempting him to cry out in protest or to arise in wrath at the perpetuation of injustice.
For this is a time of testing which calls to mind Bahá’u’lláh’s words: “O concourse of the heedless! I swear by God! The promised day is come, the day when tormenting trials will have surged above your heads, and beneath your feet, saying: ‘Taste ye what your hands have wrought!’ ”
Now is the time when every follower of Bahá’u’lláh must cling fast to the Covenant of God, resist every temptation to become embroiled in the conflicts of the world, and remember that he is the holder of a precious trust, the Message of God which, alone, can banish injustice from the world and cure the ills afflicting the body and spirit of man.
We are the bearers of the Word of God in this day and, however dark the immediate horizons, we must go forward rejoicing in the knowledge that the work we are privileged to perform is God’s work and will bring to birth a world whose splendour will outshine our brightest visions and surpass our highest hopes.
Naw-Rúz 1979
Many life-long friendships have begun at the Bahá’í National Convention. This one definitely appears to have gotten off on the right foot.
[Page 7]
Continental Counsellor Edna True (third from right in front row) with some of the 47 recipients of the ‘Corinne True Award for Meritorious Service’ during the award ceremony March 31 at the Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette. The award is named for Edna True’s mother who was a driving force behind the construction of the House of Worship.
‘True Award’ Is Given To Volunteer Workers[edit]
Forty-seven people who volunteered their time to serve at the Bahá’í House of Worship over the past several years were honored March 31 with the newly-established “Corinne True Award for Meritorious Service” during a ceremony in Foundation Hall at the House of Worship.
The awards were presented by Continental Counsellor Edna True, for whose mother the award is named.
THE RECIPIENTS were chosen because of their unselfish devotion over the past three years in serving at the House of Worship by welcoming visitors, singing in the a cappella choir, or organizing meetings and devotional programs.
An audience of about 200 watched the awards ceremony that also featured music on violin by 13-year-old Miss Deborah Jackson of Deerfield, Illinois, and her teacher, Mrs. Vivian Sweet, and a moving audio-visual tribute to the life of the Hand of the Cause of God Corinne True by Bruce Whitmore, secretary of the House of Worship Activities Committee.
Mrs. True, a long-time resident of Wilmette, was a guiding force behind the construction of the House of Worship over a 50-year period beginning with the project’s inception in 1903 and continuing to its public dedication in 1953.
She served as financial secretary of the national executive board overseeing the building’s construction, and inspired great interest in the project all over the world through her correspondence.
Mrs. True died in 1961 at the age of 99.
The Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Spencer, Oklahoma, was elected February 5 and held its Recognition Ceremony March 25. Members of the Assembly are (seated left to right) Wilma Sutter, Jan Goucher, Jo Jernigan, Kathleen Weatherby, and (standing left to right) Willis Sutter, Danny Sutter, Mike Weatherby, Victor Wong, Shahrouz Shamsipour.
The Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Piscataway Township, New Jersey, was elected September 26, 1978. Members are (seated left to right) Eileen Kugler, Jon Anastasio, Pam Lang, Henry Ouma, and (standing left to right) Connie Anastasio, Craig Rothman, Grace Ouma, Gary Kugler, Sandra J. Rothman.
Ministers Given Bahá’í Message[edit]
When Dr. Ann M. Carpenter of Teaneck, New Jersey, accepted an invitation from the Bahá’í communities of Nassau County, New York, to present an introduction to the Faith at the Salem A.M.E. Church in Roslyn, Long Island, on April 7, she expected to address a group of parishioners at a Saturday luncheon.
Instead, she found that she was the principal speaker at the monthly meeting of the Intercommunity Ministerial Alliance of Nassau and Suffolk counties.
Dr. Carpenter, an assistant to Auxiliary Board member Katherine McLaughlin, proceeded to give the Bahá’í Message to seven ministers and one assistant in a presentation and discussion that lasted more than an hour.
The ministers listened closely as she outlined the basic principles of the Faith, and were especially interested as she closed with Bahá’u’lláh’s stirring tribute to Christ (Gleanings, pp. 85–86).
Following a lively question-and-answer period, the ministers accepted Bahá’í literature and invited their visitors to return.
Register Now for ‘Special Visit’[edit]
It’s not too late to register for one of the Special Visit programs at the Bahá’í House of Worship. Simply complete and return this form. Please make checks payable to the Bahá’í Services Fund.
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Women’s Conference Explores Peace Role[edit]
Nearly 100 women and men including 25 non-Bahá’ís attended a conference entitled “Women Launching Universal Peace” held April 7 at White Plains, New York.
The conference, sponsored by the Bahá’í Committee of Westchester (an ad hoc committee appointed by the National Spiritual Assembly) and the U.S. Bahá’í Office at the United Nations, was designed to introduce women in the Westchester County area to the Bahá’í Faith by addressing current non-political issues of special concern to women, such as nutrition and family harmony.
IT WAS THE outgrowth of a series of smaller conferences begun last November by a local Bahá’í, Pi Place Johnston, to discuss the concerns of and challenges to Bahá’í women.
The day-long conference, planned and publicized by a seven-member task force, included speakers, discussions and workshops. It was designed to serve as a proclamation for non-Bahá’ís and a deepening for Bahá’ís.
Mrs. Mildred Persinger, a representative to the United Nations for the World YWCA and chairperson of the International Women’s Tribune in New York City, was the only non-Bahá’í speaker on the program.
Other speakers during the morning session were Auxiliary Board member Javidukht Khadem and Dr. Elizabeth Bowen, a professor of nutrition and preventive medicine at Yale University’s Gesell Institute for Human Development.
THE AFTERNOON session was devoted to the topic, “Peace Begins in the Family.” Mrs. Linda Jones, a family therapist from South Carolina, gave a talk and led workshops and discussion groups.
A central theme of the conference was the use of consultation to develop better channels of communication within the family.
A special kit was prepared for each participant. Along with a selection of Bahá’í Writings on the role of women and the pamphlet “The Equality of Men and Women—A New Reality,” it included several statements from the Bahá’í International Community on the status of women, a reprint from Bahá’í News on parenting by Linda Jones, and a UNICEF pamphlet, “Rights of the Child.”
Several of the non-Bahá’í women at the conference asked to attend firesides.
Mrs. Linda Jones, a family therapist from South Carolina, addresses participants at a women’s conference held April 7 in White Plains, New York.
Bahá’í Esperanto League Republishes ‘New Era’[edit]
The Bahá’í Esperanto League has announced publication of an updated translation of the book, Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era.
Dr. J.E. Esslemont’s classic introduction to the Faith was first translated into Esperanto by Lidia Zamenhof, who was a Bahá’í and daughter of the founder of Esperanto. It was first published in 1931, but has long been out of print in its original Esperanto edition.
Republication of the book was made possible by a loan from the Universal House of Justice.
THE NEW Esperanto edition uses the latest English edition of the book as the basis for the revised and updated translation.
The international language (Esperanto) is read by more than a million people worldwide and is gaining increasing acceptance and recognition in the developing world and in the United Nations as a possible alternative to the current linguistic policies that tend to block effective communication.
The Bahá’í Esperanto League was formed in 1973 to help bring together the Bahá’í and Esperanto world communities.
The League is planning a new worldwide campaign emphasizing what it calls “linguistic world citizenship” (that is, use of a common second language) as a link between individuals, cultures and the global community.
Copies of Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era (as well as other Bahá’í material in Esperanto) are available ($7.50 hardcover, $3.50 softcover, plus postage) from the Bahá’í Esperanto League, c/o Roan Orloff Stone, vice-secretary, 504 N. 5th St., Gallup, NM 87301.
Franklin Kahn (standing), a member of the U.S. National Spiritual Assembly and well-known Indian artist, presents a plaque to 85-year-old Dave Christy during an Elders Banquet in April at the Reno-Sparks Indian Colony hosted by the Northern Nevada District Teaching Committee.
Franklin Kahn Guest Speaker At Nevada Indian Gathering[edit]
Franklin Kahn, a member of the U.S. National Spiritual Assembly who is a well-known American Indian artist and jewelry designer, was the guest speaker April 5 as the Northern Nevada District Teaching Committee hosted an Elders Banquet at the Reno-Sparks Indian Colony.
The visit to the Reno-Sparks communities was a homecoming for Mr. Kahn who was introduced to the Faith there in 1956. It was also in Reno that he received his formal education in arts and crafts and met and married his wife Mary Jane.
The day after the Elders Banquet, Mr. Kahn visited the Stewart Indian School near Carson City where he spoke to the principal and superintendent of schools about the importance of education and the need for unity among all human beings.
While at the school he discovered an Arizona desert scene he had painted many years ago hanging on a wall of the main administration building.
That afternoon, Mr. Kahn displayed his art works and turquoise jewelry at the Center for Religion and Life. The event was hosted by the Nevada Council for Religion and the Arts whose vice-president, Frank Esposito, is a Bahá’í.
In the evening, Mr. Kahn again displayed his art works and spoke to many people about the Faith at the Reno-Sparks Colony.
Before leaving the following morning, Mr. Kahn attended a breakfast for area Bahá’ís.
Santa Ana Community Hosts World Religion Day Meeting[edit]
More than 500 Bahá’ís and their guests were present January 14 in Santa Ana, California, for a World Religion Day observance sponsored by the Bahá’ís of Orange County.
Auxiliary Board member Fred Schechter was master of ceremonies for the program that included performances by six cultural and religious groups.
THE AMERICAN Indians of Orange County presented traditional songs and dances in full costume; the cantor and choir of Temple Beth Israel in Westminster sang traditional and original compositions; a group of Buddhists from Vietnam performed a musical pantomime depicting scenes of courtship and marriage; two Christian singers presented the 84th Psalm and the Lord’s Prayer; noted tar and santour players accompanied by a vocalist provided a unique glimpse of the Islamic and Zoroastrian cultures, and “The Children of Bahá,” a Bahá’í children’s chorus from Los Angeles, represented the Faith in song.
The response to the program has been excellent. Several organizations have inquired about the Faith, and some have asked that the program be repeated.
Auxiliary Board member Fred Schechter speaks at a World Religion Day observance January 14 in Santa Ana, California. More than 500 people attended the event.
‘Plan’ Declarants Honored At Green Acre Conference[edit]
During the weekend of March 31–April 1, the Massachusetts District Teaching Committee sponsored a “Deepening Celebration/Conference” at the Green Acre Bahá’í School in Eliot, Maine, to honor all those in Massachusetts who declared their belief in Bahá’u’lláh during the Five Year Plan.
About 60 people attended the weekend gathering that featured four rotating seminars: “The Covenant,” led by Auxiliary Board member Katherine McLaughlin; “Bahá’í Administration,” led by Roma Freeman; “Our Spiritual Ancestors,” led by Gladys Weeden; and “Teaching: Our Legacy,” led by Ethelinda Merson.
In addition to the studies, the friends enjoyed a delicious banquet and wonderful entertainment Saturday night.
Manny Reimer presented a slide program on the history of Green Acre School. This was followed by a piano recital by Vic Salvo and vocals by Nancy Ackerman.
Each participant received a photograph of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and a copy of The Pattern of Bahá’í Life.
A brief ceremony commemorating the formation of the first Spiritual Assembly of Orange County, North Carolina, was held January 28 in Hillsborough. Guests included Auxiliary Board member Elizabeth Martin and Greg Meyers, a member of the Central North Carolina District Teaching Committee who represented the National Spiritual Assembly and presented a gift on its behalf to the new Assembly. The Orange County Assembly presented the book, Tokens From the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, to Richard Whitted, chairman of the Orange County Board of Commissioners, who attended the event. Members of the Assembly are (left to right) Allen Rosman, LaWanda Hall, Rick Heyman, Susan Rosman, Carolyn Prevost, Fred Hall, Melanie Block, Holly Heyman, Rebecca Townsend.
Canada Wins All 5 Year Plan Goals[edit]
The National Spiritual Assembly of Canada reports that its domestic teaching goals of the Five Year Plan have been won with 312 Local Spiritual Assemblies established, 152 Assemblies incorporated, and 1,675 localities opened to the Faith by Riḍván.
One-fifth of Canada’s Local Assemblies are on Indian Reserves, and one-quarter of its localities are native communities.
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239 Days: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Journey in America By Allan L. Ward. The story of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s remarkable journey across America. From His arrival on April 11, 1912 until His departure on December 5, 1912, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá amazed and captivated the American press and public alike. 239 Days is a day-by-day account of that historic visit featuring accounts from newspapers and magazine articles published at the time and excerpts from the diary of Mahmúd-i-Zarqání, His personal secretary. Written in an easy-to-read style, the book follows ‘Abdu’l-Bahá from coast to coast, covering His celebrated visits to dozens of cities along the way. 239 Days translates the perfection of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s example into actual daily events, suggesting ways that every reader can apply the Teachings of Bahá’u’lláh in his own life. Can be presented to school and public libraries to improve their selection of books on Bahá’í history. Designed by John Solarz. 209 pp., 14 photographs, frontispiece. 7-32-05 cloth $7.50 NET Ten Days in the Light of ‘Akká By Julia M. Grundy. Just released in an attractive revised edition, this book is one pilgrim’s attempt to share with her fellow Bahá’ís the lessons spoken by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá during her ten days in ‘Akká in 1905. It was originally published in 1907 by the Bahá’í Publishing Society. The book records ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s words—as Julia Grundy recalled them—on such subjects as love, soul and spirit, The House of Justice, heaven, women in the Bahá’í Revelation, and the Second Coming. It also includes several 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. Ten Days in the Light of ‘Akká is “a personal, though not intimate, record, and at the same time, a document of considerable historical value,” writes Howard Garey in the Foreword. In it “we hear the voice of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá through the mind and heart of a good and simple person and once again appreciate His ability to teach anyone right to the limit of his spiritual and intellectual capacity to learn.” Foreword by Howard Garey. Designed by John Solarz. 107 pp. 7-32-40 paper $4.85 NET How to Order: Order through your local Bahá’í librarian if possible. Isolated Bahá’ís and Bahá’ís in communities with no librarian may use the coupon order form at right. Bahá’í Publishing Trust
415 Linden Avenue/Wilmette, Illinois 60091 |
The 70th Bahá’í National Convention[edit]
Every Bahá’í National Convention is a kaleidoscope of activity, and this year’s was no exception. The excitement and joy of the 70th U.S. Convention, which celebrated the victorious conclusion of the Five Year Plan and enthusiastically approached the new Seven Year Plan, was captured in these photos (and others in this issue) by an excellent team of photographers. We gratefully acknowledge the splendid work of Paul Slaughter, Haynes McFadden, Kevin Schuler, Greg Suhm, Mark Spittal, Scott Stuart and Jean Stuart in compiling such a marvelous photographic record of the Convention.
Listing of U.S. Bahá’í Summer Schools[edit]
Arizona[edit]
Date/Theme: July 21-28, 1979. “The Bahá’í Life: Giving, Caring and Sharing.”
Location: Arizona Church Conference Center, Prescott, Arizona.
Highlights: Deepening and broadening Bahá’í awareness in family life, Islam, child education, pioneering and traveling teaching.
Natural Environment: The conference center is located on 20 acres of wooded, rolling hills with lovely outcroppings of rocks. Days are warm, evenings cool. A barbecue and large circular firepit help foster outdoor fellowship.
Recreation: Areas are provided for volleyball, basketball, tennis, softball, horseshoes and table tennis. There are swings and a nearby tetherball post.
Registrar: David Garlock, 1102 West Mountainview, Apt. 10, Phoenix, AZ 85021.
Accommodations: Facilities include rustic quarters for as many as 110 people in dorms and cabins. A professional cooking staff operates the kitchen and dining hall. A large assembly room with stage is provided. Beds with mattresses only are provided, and school participants must supply their own bed linens or sleeping bags, pillows, towels, and toilet articles.
Access: Exit from U.S. 89 or Arizona 69 at East Gurley. Continue to West Gurley, turning south onto either Park Avenue or Plaza Drive (both lead to the conference center).
Bosch[edit]
Dates/Themes/Highlights: June 16-22—“The Child: Our Gift to the Future.” Family Week, limited to parents and their children.
June 23-29—“Close Encounters of the Bahá’í Kind.” Junior Youth Week, ages 12-15, mature 11 with council approval and space permitting.
June 30-July 6—“Bahá’í Literature: Current and Historical Research.” General session, for all ages.
July 7-13—“An Evolving Intercultural Bahá’í Community.” General session, for all ages. Optional classes in Persian.
July 14-20—“Bahá’í Faith: Victory for Mankind.” General session; optional classes for new believers, bi-lingual.
July 21-27—“Year of the Child: Building Tomorrow’s World.” Family Week, limited to parents and their children.
July 28-August 3—“Understanding Group Processes.” General session, all ages.
August 4-10—“Strengthening Our Intercultural Bahá’í Community.” General session, all ages.
August 11-17—“Individual Transformation.” General session, all ages.
August 18-24—“Becoming Your True Self.” Youth Week, limited to ages 15-25.
August 25-31—“Beholding the Signs of Guidance.” General session, all ages.
Special Notes: No classes for children under age 1. Parents are responsible for the care of babies. Ages 1 to 2—nursery care, but parents may be asked to help one day.
Register early. Special sessions and sessions in August fill rapidly.
Special Guests: July 7-13, Auxiliary Board member Mrs. Margaret Gallagher; July 21-27, Auxiliary Board members Dr. Jalil Mahmoudi and Mrs. Nancy Phillips; July 28-August 3, Auxiliary Board member Mrs. Ronna Santoscoy; August 4-10, The Hand of the Cause of God Zikrullah Khadem, Auxiliary Board member Mrs. Javidukht Khadem; August 11-17, Auxiliary Board member Mrs. Joyce Dahl; August 25-31, Auxiliary Board member Fred Schechter.
Natural Environment: Bosch School is in the Santa Cruz Mountains, 2,000 feet above sea level. It’s a mostly wooded area with redwood, fir, oak and madrone trees. Warm days, cool nights.
Recreation: Swimming, hiking, nature study, volleyball, softball, horseshoes, table tennis, children’s wading pool.
Library: The Bosch library is open daily for study and research. It has an excellent selection of out-of-print Bahá’í books as well as current titles. The library also has a tape section featuring historic talks by Hands of the Cause and others.
Registrar: Mrs. Flavia Harris, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (408-423-3387).
Accommodations: Students are housed in cabins in groups of four to six. Each cabin has individual bath, and is nestled among redwood trees. Meals are cafeteria-style in the central lodge dining room.
Access: Take Highway 17 from San José, then 12 miles by country road. Map is provided with registration. Air: come to the San José Airport, 45 miles away. Ground transportation from the airport, $5 per person per trip if previous arrangements made. From Santa Cruz bus station, ground transportation $2 per person per trip. Make previous arrangements with the registrar.
Southern California[edit]
Date/Theme: July 1-7—“Love That Child! Our Responsibilities.”
Location: Camp Maranatha, Idyllwild, California.
Highlights: Outstanding teaching staff, well-coordinated curriculum, superior music teacher and arts and crafts teacher for all ages.
Natural Environment: The camp is in the San Jacinto Mountains in Southern California’s Sierra Nevadas. The altitude is 5,000 feet. Warm days and cool nights.
Recreation: A large swimming pool, sports field, volleyball courts, a grassy plaza for socializing, and an amphitheatre.
Special Guest: Auxiliary Board member Mrs. Joyce Dahl.
Registrar: Joseph Appolito, 903 Vista Grande Road, El Cajon, CA 92021 (714-440-6360).
Accommodations: Large enclosed dining room, cafeteria-style. Dormitory cabins with 4-6-8 bunk beds and some family unit accommodations. Excellent classroom facilities, with a 300-seat auditorium.
Access: Accessible from Interstate 10 or Highways 395 and 74, or Interstate 10 and Highway 243.
Special Notes: Guests need to bring sleeping bags or bed clothes; some may be rented for a nominal fee. Bring towels and toilet articles, and a flashlight.
Carolinas[edit]
Date/Theme: July 2-7—“The Greatest Undertaking.”
Location: Lander College, Greenwood, South Carolina.
Highlights: Well-developed children’s classes. Workshops in lieu of lectures. “Mini-courses” and special evening programs.
Special Guest: Auxiliary Board member Mrs. Elizabeth Martin.
Recreation: Gymnasium, tennis courts, playing fields, pool, study rooms, drama rooms, craft rooms.
Registrar: Ann Respess, 510 Spicewood Avenue, Greensboro, NC 27405 (919-288-0034).
Accommodations: Modern air-conditioned dorms; excellent food, private dining room. Classrooms in modern air-conditioned library; meeting room with stage; music accessories.
Access: Greenwood, South Carolina, via Highways 25 and 72; train and bus depot in town; airport at Columbia, South Carolina.
Colorado East[edit]
Date/Theme: June 16-22—“Journey to the Ultimate Frontier.”
Location: Black Forest Baptist Assembly, 780 East Baptist Road, Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Highlights: Family-centered atmosphere. Enrichment classes such as bookbinding, nature crafts, macramé, and study of the Bahá’í glossary presented by a Persian Bahá’í couple.
Natural Environment: The Assembly is in a hilly wooded area with a view of Pike’s Peak and the Rampart Range of the Rockies. The altitude is 7,200 feet. The 1,100 acres of woods include abundant hiking trails.
Recreation: Areas are provided for volleyball, basketball, foursquare and softball.
Registrar: Donald Brayton, P.O. Box 1033, Woodland Park, CO 80863 (303-687-3351).
Accommodations: The heated cabins, most of which hold 12-16 persons, are spartan, but each has a shower, toilet and wash basin. Cabins can be divided for additional privacy. Meals are served family-style in a large, pleasant building.
Access: Take Interstate 25 to Exit 72 north of Colorado Springs (about 20 miles). Go 1 1/2 miles east on Baptist Road, turn left. Go 1 1/2 miles to the camp. Trailways bus line with depots in Colorado Springs and Denver serves the airport. Take bus to Monument and phone 488-2479 for transportation.
Conifer Hill[edit]
Dates/Theme: “Gathering Strength.” June 15-21, Work/Study; June 22-28, Work/Study; June 29-July 5, Family Camp
Location: Lyons, Colorado.
Highlights: Work/Study Camp—This program is especially designed for young adults. Campers spend the mornings working to improve facilities, afternoons and evenings in class. (1) Diana Carson of Grand Junction will teach the early Bahá’í history of Hawaii, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand; (2) Bob Bitts of Littleton will teach a course on dealing with tests and difficulties.
Family Camp—Dr. Magdalene Carney will teach the “Foundations of Bahá’í Belief”; Mrs. Arlene Jennrich will teach a class on Bahá’í Holy Days.
Recreation: 240 acres plus adjacent national forest for hiking, volleyball, softball, camp crafts, photography.
Natural Environment: Conifer Hill is a primitive camping area 8,000 feet above sea level in the Rocky Mountains. It has 240 acres of pines, firs, spruce, aspens, wildflowers and rock formations.
Special Guest: Auxiliary Board member Dennis Jenkyns (June 30-July 1).
Registrar: Mrs. Josephine Fleming, 29107 S. Fleming Road, Evergreen, CO 80439 (303-674-4344).
Accommodations: Dormitory buildings with bunk beds and mattress pads. No indoor plumbing. Kitchen and shower house have hot and cold running water. Meals served cafeteria-style. Eating is done outside on picnic tables or in classroom tent if it rains.
Access: Twelve miles southwest of Lyons on Colorado Highway 7 and four miles off that highway on a dirt road.
Southern Florida[edit]
Date/Theme: August 6-12, 1979. “Family Reflecting Attributes: A House of Mirrors.”
Location: Eckerd College, St. Petersburg, Florida.
Highlights: Emphasis will be on family unity and the various kinds of families. Everyone will be part of a “family.” Singles will be “adopted” by a family while they are there.
Natural Environment: Sprawling campus on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico.
Recreation: Excellent facilities for swimming, tennis, gymnastics, volleyball, etc.
Registrar: Robert Thaggard, c/o A. Nitz, 2065 Madrid Court North, Clearwater, FL 33520.
Accommodations: Modern air-conditioned dormitories. Students should bring bed linens, towels and toilet articles. (Linens may be rented from the college.)
Access: Twenty miles from Tampa.
Georgia/Alabama[edit]
Date/Theme: June 29-July 5, 1979. “On Becoming a New Race of Men.”
Location: West Georgia College, Carrollton, Georgia.
Highlights: Courses on Bahá’í family life including discussions of courtship, marriage, parenting and communicating. Elective courses on basic principles of the Faith, teaching and proclamation methods. Outstanding children’s program.
Natural Environment: A large wooded campus in western Georgia with nature trails to the cafeteria, dorms and classes. Picturesque lake where dawn prayers frequently are held.
Recreation: Indoor swimming pool, running track, tennis courts, gym, hiking trails, children’s playground nearby.
Registrar: Joyce Kendall, 126 Bush Road, Huntsville, AL 35803 (205-723-2560).
Accommodations: Air-conditioned dorm rooms with sitting room/lounge on each floor. Snack bar and soft drink machines in dorms. Cafeteria-style meals with good food selection.
Access: Forty-five miles west of Atlanta off I-20. East of Birmingham, Alabama, off I-20 on U.S. 27.
Great Plains (Nebraska)[edit]
Date/Theme: June 25-July 1, 1979. “One Spiritual Family.”
Location: Nebraska Youth Leadership and Development Center, near Aurora, Nebraska.
Highlights: Excellent children’s classes. Other courses will be on nurturing the family, teaching those of other faiths, Bahá’í Administration. There will be a music workshop, warm fellowship and love; also a variety show developed from students’ talents.
Natural Environment: Quiet and secure with air-conditioned sleeping quarters. The conference center is near good roads, but is private enough to provide excellent Bahá’í atmosphere.
Special Guest: Auxiliary Board member Mrs. Ronna Santoscoy.
Recreation: Swimming pool on campus, Frisbee, volleyball, softball, horseshoes, table tennis, shuffleboard, music (bring instruments).
Registrar: Dave Clarke, 11912 Amerado Boulevard, Apt. 315, Omaha, NE 68123 (402-291-0275).
Accommodations: Air-conditioned dormitory rooms, some four-bed rooms for families; some families may have to be separated. Meals catered by a nearby restaurant. Classrooms feature cross-ventilation and ample room.
Access: Aurora is four miles north of I-80 between Lincoln and Grand Island. By car, take I-80 to Aurora northeast exit. The facility is 1/2-mile east of Aurora on Highway 34.
Green Acre[edit]
Date/Theme: June 30-September 3. “The Most Challenging Issue.”
Location: Green Acre Bahá’í School, Eliot, Maine.
Natural Environment: Green Acre School is three miles northwest of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and six miles from the open sea. The property comprises more than 300 acres of beautiful fields and woodland. The main campus is 19 acres, bordered on the west by the Piscataqua River and on the east by pine forests. The beauty and peacefulness of the surroundings helps make for a spiritually uplifting atmosphere. The campus was blessed by a visit from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá during his stay in America in 1912.
Recreation: Equipment and facilities are available for softball, volleyball, football, horseshoes, croquet and badminton. A recreation director plans special activities for fun and fellowship.
Special Guests: July 9-13, Auxiliary Board member Katherine McLaughlin; July 23-29, Auxiliary Board member Javidukht Khadem; July 28-29, the Hand of the Cause of God Zikrullah Khadem; August 4-5, Auxiliary Board member Nathan Rutstein.
Registrar: c/o Green Acre Bahá’í School,
[Page 13]
185 Main St., Eliot, ME 03903 (207-439-0019).
Rates: New policy for two weeks this summer only: pay what you can for the weeks of July 16-20 and August 13-17. Other rates available on request.
Accommodations: School participants are housed in 14 buildings, ranging from small cottages to the Sarah Farmer Inn. Sleeping accommodations range from dormitories to private rooms. All meals are served in the dining room of Sarah Farmer Inn. A campground with cabins, tent sites, cooking and sanitary facilities also is available for students. The Green Acre Library has a unique collection of Bahá’í and Bahá’í-related reference books available for study and research.
Louhelen[edit]
Date/Theme: August 5-10, August 12-17. “Cleave Wholly Unto God.”
Location: MEA Conference Center, Battle Creek, Michigan.
Highlights: Talent show. Open house for children’s classes. At the first session, Ardeshir Akhtakhavari will present “Memoirs of a Visit With ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.”
Natural Environment: The center is in a beautiful wooded area on a lake in southeastern Michigan.
Special Guest: August 5-10, Auxiliary Board member Sam McClellan.
Recreation: Swimming, nature trails, volleyball, gymnastics program for children.
Registrar: Parvaneh Kashef, 1775 Schoenith, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48013 (313-626-8209).
Accommodations: Dormitory-style or single air-conditioned accommodations.
Minnesota[edit]
Date/Theme: July 29-August 3, 1979. “Power of Perspective at This Crucial Hour.”
Location: Frontenac Methodist Camp, Frontenac, Minnesota.
Highlights: Auxiliary Board member Stephen Birkland will present a course on “Facing the Future Armed With Our History.” The Hand of the Cause of God John Robarts is expected to attend as a special guest.
Natural Environment: A lovely wooded area on historic Lake Pepin, part of the Mississippi River.
Recreation: Swimming pool, volleyball court, tennis court, nature study.
Registrar: Gary Colgrove, 215 15th Avenue NW, New Brighton, MN 55112 (612-636-6763).
Accommodations: Dormitory housing with accommodations for families. Wash bowl and toilet facilities in each dorm. Showers in the main dorm and shower house adjacent to the pool. Mattresses are provided, but bring your own bedding or sleeping bag; also bring towels, washcloths and soap. All meals are served in the dining room. There is ample classroom space for adults, children and youth. Nursery care is provided for children ages 0-3.
Access: Two miles off U.S. 61-63 between Lake City and Red Wing. The camp is about 60 miles from Minneapolis-St. Paul.
Montana[edit]
Date/Theme: July 22-28, 1979. “Developing the Distinctive Characteristics of Bahá’í Life.”
Location: Lions Club Camp, Red Lodge, Montana.
Highlights: Classes will focus on the study of the Writings and their application in developing distinctive characters. One class will discuss Bahá’í perspectives of work and a career.
Recreation: Horseshoes, softball, volleyball, hiking and nature walks, singing, square dancing, ping pong, arts and crafts, tetherball, shuffleboard, games, cards, talent show.
Registrar: Arlene Blumenfeld, 9 Madison Court, Bozeman, MT 59715 (406-587-9321). Pre-registration required: limit 100.
Accommodations: Rustic, unheated cabins. Warm sleeping bags and heavy bed linens and blankets should be brought. Also bring clothes suitable for warm days and cool nights. Students should bring towels and toilet articles.
Access: Ten miles south of Red Lodge off the Lake Fork Road. The setting is in the magnificent Beartooth Mountains.
New York[edit]
Date/Theme: July 21-August 4, 1979. “The Educators of Mankind.”
Location: Oakwood School, Poughkeepsie, New York.
Highlights: Study of the basics of the Bahá’í Faith. Focus on the International Year of the Child. Auxiliary Board member Nathan Rutstein will be a special guest.
Recreation: Tennis courts, a gym, nearby swimming pool and field for games.
Natural Environment: The school is in the lovely Hudson River Valley amid rolling hills and stately old trees.
Registrar: Luann Hammerschmitt, 6209 Flushing Avenue, Queens, NY 11378.
Accommodations: Dormitory-style with two to a room. Central dining hall serves meals cafeteria-style. Students should bring bed linens, towels, soap, alarm clock, fan, and sports equipment.
Oklahoma/Texas[edit]
Dates/Theme: July 5-10, July 10-12, 1979. “Threshold of a New Age.”
Location: Bridgeport Conference Center, Bridgeport, Texas.
Highlights: Emphasis on family unity and child development. Adult classes on “tests and difficulties and how to deal with them.” Outstanding class on making and using puppets will be taught by professionals.
Special Guest: July 10-12, Auxiliary Board member Hormoz Bastani.
Natural Environment: The camp is in a wooded, lakeside setting in rolling hills. A cool lake breeze maintains comfortable temperatures.
Registrar: Robert Johnson, 615 E. Chestnut, Ponca City, OK 74601 (405-762-5529).
Recreation: Swimming pool, volleyball, baseball, ping pong, group games, hiking on extensive nature trails.
Accommodations: Sleeping accommodations are provided in air-conditioned cabins with dormitory-style beds. Meals are served cafeteria-style in an air-conditioned dining room. Bring own bedding, towels, toilet articles.
Access: Northwest of Dallas/Fort Worth, west of Denton.
Oregon (Badasht)[edit]
Date/Theme: July 19-22, 1979. “From Strength to Strength.”
Location: Near Ashland, Oregon.
Highlights: Full children’s program. Classes for youth and adults on the history of the Faith, pioneering, and the Seven Year Plan.
Accommodations: Rustic, three-sided cabins with canvas front, running water, pit toilets and a covered kitchen area. Bring sleeping bags or air mattresses, tents or camp trailers.
Recreation: Swimming in the lake, art classes, music, bonfire, popcorn and marshmallow roast.
Registrar: Mrs. Sylvia Surratt, 8587 Wagner Creek Road, Talent, OR 97540 (503-535-4543).
Access: The camp is about 30 miles outside Ashland, Oregon. A map and directions will be provided upon registration.
Oregon (Suttle Lake)[edit]
Date/Theme: August 5-10, 1979. “From Strength to Strength.”
Location: Suttle Lake, near Bend, Oregon.
Highlights: Dr. Saeed Aflatooniae will present a class on the family. Tablets of the Divine Plan will be the focal point of another class. There will be an excellent children’s program.
Recreation: Swimming, boating, art classes, bonfire, hiking, ball park, playground.
Special Guest: Auxiliary Board member Mrs. Margaret Gallagher.
Registrar: Mrs. Sylvia Surratt, 8587 Wagner Creek Road, Talent, OR 97540 (503-535-4543).
Accommodations: Cabins sleep eight; some have heat and electricity. Showers in restrooms. Meals are served in a dining hall. Bring sleeping bags or bed linens, towels, and toilet articles.
Access: The camp is in eastern Oregon near Bend. Complete instructions with map will be provided upon registration.
Washington East (3 sessions)[edit]
Date/Theme: June 17-23, 1979. “The Home: A Sacred Institution.”
Location: Twinlow Methodist Camp, on Lake Twinlow near Lake Coeur d’Alene.
Highlights: Mrs. Ala Dakserhoff will present a class on development of the home and family throughout history.
Recreation: Swimming, boating, hiking, dancing, extensive play area.
Registrar: Claude Barrett, P.O. Box 9381, Yakima, WA 98909 (509-248-7607).
Accommodations: Cabins with indoor plumbing and hot water showers. Meals are served in a central dining hall. Students should bring bed linens, towels and toilet articles.
Access: Directions will be provided with registration packet upon request.
Date/Theme: July 8-14, 1979 (Youth Camp). “Spiritual and Physical Survival.”
Location: St. Joe National Forest, Conrad’s Crossing.
Highlights: This camp is for youth between the ages of 13 and 25. Only 25 individuals will be allowed to register for this exploration into nature and life. Group participants will learn to work together and to share their feelings about life and their relationship to God. Campers should be prepared to “rough it” for the entire week.
Rates: $50 per person.
Registrar: Claude Barrett, P.O. Box 9381, Yakima, WA 98909 (509-248-7607).
Accommodations: Tents will be provided, but students should bring full camping gear, sleeping bag, air mattress, eating utensils, warm clothing, towels and toilet articles. ALL STUDENTS MUST BRING A MEDICAL RELEASE. They should also bring a writing tablet or journal and pens/pencils. There will be no electricity or indoor plumbing.
Date/Theme: August 5-11, 1979. “The Home: A Most Sacred Institution.”
Location: Camp Roganunda, Chinook Pass.
Highlights: A variety of classes on aspects of a Bahá’í home including marriage, children, and quality of life.
Recreation: Miles of hiking trails, close to Boulder Caves, possible horseback riding, swimming pool, fishing.
Natural Environment: The camp is in a beautiful mountain area with trees and picturesque streams. The weather in August should be perfect.
Registrar: Claude Barrett, P.O. Box 9381, Yakima, WA 98909 (509-248-7607).
Accommodations: Beds are adequate, but rustic. There is a good dining hall with fireplace and piano. Classes are held in cabins, tepees, and on a screened-in porch for children, and in a lodge and dining room for adults. Students should bring towels and bed linen. Nights can be cold, so bring plenty of blankets and warm clothing too.
Access: Forty-five miles northwest of Yakima up Chinook Pass. Turn about 1 1/2 miles from Whistlin’ Jack’s (marked with signs for Camp Roganunda and Boulder Cave).
Washington West[edit]
Date/Theme: August 26-September 1. “All Humankind Are as Children In a School.”
Highlights: Classes on the distinctive quality of Bahá’í family life, the Kítáb-i-Íqán, foundations of a New World Order, the exiles of Bahá’u’lláh, and Bahá’í Holy Places: their history and significance.
Natural Environment: The camp is on a canal in a lovely wooded area, overlooking the rugged Olympic Mountains. There is a warm lagoon for swimming and boating.
Recreation: Swimming, boating, volleyball, basketball, tennis, horseshoes, etc.
Registrar: Edward Knight, 9340 Friends Lane S.E., Port Orchard, WA 98366 (206-871-2872).
Accommodations: Dormitory with some private and family units. All sleeping rooms have regular beds with linen provided. Each building has some heat. There are two restrooms with showers in each building. Meals are served family-style.
Belize Requests U.S. Youth Group[edit]
The National Spiritual Assembly of Belize requests that the U.S. Bahá’í community send a group of dedicated youth to that country to support the teaching work there.
The plan is to have several Bahá’í youth live in a village and teach for two weeks.
The youth will need to live in camp conditions, in tents, with only river water and no electricity or sanitary facilities.
They will live as the village people do and will need to be well-deepened so that they can deepen the village Bahá’ís. The language of Belize is English.
The project is scheduled to be held from July 15-August 26. The cost of a round-trip air fare (from Detroit) is about $300 an additional $150 to $200 will be needed for food and other needs while in Belize.
Those who are interested in participating should contact the International Goals Committee, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091.
Convention Lauds Victory, Launches Plan[edit]
Continued From Page 1
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National Assembly Is Elected Members of the National Spiritual Assembly elected to serve for the next year are Richard D. Betts, Dr. Magdalene Carney, Mrs. Soo Fouts, Dr. Daniel C. Jordan, Franklin Kahn, Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh, Glenford E. Mitchell, Dean Dorothy W. Nelson, and Judge James F. Nelson. Judge Nelson will serve as chairman of the Assembly. Other officers elected by the Assembly are Dr. Kazemzadeh, vice-chairman; Mr. Mitchell, secretary; Dean Nelson, treasurer, and Dr. Carney, assistant secretary. |
The National Spiritual Assembly issued the following directive to delegates attending the Convention:
“In response to the urgency you have expressed for immediate directions toward meeting the objectives of the Seven Year Plan, we call on the American Bahá’í community in this preliminary statement to undertake the following:
“1. Each individual should endeavor to bring in one new believer this year.
“2. Each District Teaching Committee is expected to open at least two localities this year.
“3. Each district is to establish Local Spiritual Assemblies according to the number assigned and the schedule set by the National Teaching Committee.”
The spirit of enthusiasm and optimism that animated the Convention was heightened by stirring addresses from the Hands of the Cause who exhorted the American believers to sustain and accelerate the momentum generated during the dramatic closing months of the Five Year Plan.
“The most dramatic accomplishments in this year of unprecedented expansion,” the National Spiritual Assembly said in its report to the Convention, “were the formation of 300 Local Spiritual Assemblies and the opening of 1,200 localities to the Faith, bringing the grand totals to 1,486 Assemblies and 7,041 localities, respectively.
“THE NUMBER of Assemblies on Indian Reservations increased by six, upping the total to 31, with one each in California and New York.”
Consultation ranged from the immediate concerns of teaching, expansion and consolidation to persecution of Bahá’ís in Iran, prosecution of the initial phase of the Seven Year Plan, the status of the Bahá’í Fund, and other matters of special interest to the American community.
Convention highlights included a commentary on the Seven Year Plan by the Hand of the Cause Mr. Sears; talks by the other Hands of the Cause present, Mr. Khadem and Mr. Robarts; a special presentation by the Counsellors in North America; a talk on “The United Nations and the Bahá’í International Community” by Dr. Victor de Araujo; a devotional program at the Bahá’í House of Worship celebrating the Ninth Day of Riḍván; a Sunday breakfast for attendees sponsored by the National Spiritual Assembly; presentations and exhibits by various national committees, and a “youth coffeehouse” hosted by the National Youth Committee.
A comprehensive and well-structured children’s program accommodated more than 200 youngsters from infancy to 14 years of age.
A TEACHING staff of 40 volunteers from 10 states helped meet the needs of the larger-than-expected number of children who participated in art, creative movement, drama and music experiences in addition to regular classroom activities.
The children’s program theme, “Treasure Hunt,” served to help them become more aware of the storehouse of treasure that exists in every human being and throughout God’s creation.
All children three years of age or older visited the Bahá’í House of Worship. Youth from 12-14 years of age were visited by the Hand of the Cause Mr. Robarts and by National Spiritual Assembly member Dr. Magdalene M. Carney.
More than 60 volunteers helped man two bookstores run by the Bahá’í Publishing Trust, one at the Ramada O’Hare, the other at the House of Worship.
All sales records for a Convention were broken; in fact, sales were so brisk that the Ramada bookstore had to be resupplied on Friday evening.
For the first time, a series of “satellite conferences” was planned to bring the spirit of the Convention to Bahá’ís throughout the country.
THE CONFERENCES were held the last Sunday in May in Atlanta, Georgia; Dallas, Texas; Denver, Colorado; Hartford, Connecticut; Portland, Oregon, and San Diego, California
Members of the National Spiritual Assembly and representatives of other national committees were present at each conference.
Another first this year was a pre-Convention press conference at which details of the Convention were made known to the Chicago news media.
The press conference was conducted by three members of the National Spiritual Assembly: Dr. Daniel C. Jordan, Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh, Glenford E. Mitchell
ON THURSDAY evening, April 26, following the formal opening of the Convention, the National Spiritual Assembly hosted a reception for delegates at the House of Worship.
Friday’s sessions at the Ramada O’Hare Inn included were the annual reports of the National Spiritual Assembly; an up-to-date review of the situation in Iran; the message from the Universal House of Justice launching the Seven Year Plan and a commentary on the message by Mr. Sears; the presentation on the UN and the Bahá’í International Community by Dr. de Araujo, and special presentations by each of the national committees.
The present crisis in Iran, the National Spiritual Assembly said in its annual report, has proven to be “a powerful stimulus to the teaching work” in this country.
“The wide publicity accruing to the Faith in the wake of these tragic events raised proclamation to a height not matched in many a year,” the report continued.
“INDEED, the crisis created opportunities for reaching leaders of thought and those in authority, including United Nations officials, Justices of the Supreme Court, members of the President’s cabinet, senators and congressmen, outstanding journalists and leaders of human rights organizations. It generated wide interest in the Faith as demonstrated by the increasing inquiries addressed to the National Assembly.”
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Youth’s Death Marks Joy at Convention The joy and excitement that marked the 70th Bahá’í National Convention and the launching of the Seven Year Plan was marred by the first accidental death ever to occur at one of these annual gatherings of the friends. On Friday, April 27, 12-year-old Rhonda Dunk of Lafayette, Indiana, was drowned during a Bahá’í children’s swimming party at the Ramada O’Hare Inn, site of the Convention. Rhonda had come to the Convention with her mother, Mrs. Billie Dunk, and 10-year-old sister, Ann. Rhonda apparently struck her head after diving into the pool. Efforts to revive her were unsuccessful. Upon learning of Rhonda’s death, those at the Convention set up a special fund in her name and donated more than $1,800 to help construct the permanent Seat of the Universal House of Justice. On May 2, five days after her death, Rhonda’s father, Ernest Dunk, declared his belief in Bahá’u’lláh. |
In summing up its report, the National Spiritual Assembly said:
“Breathless again, we come to the end of a grand chapter in the beloved Master’s unfolding Divine Plan.
“These five challenging years taught us much we must heed: Clearly our greatest need is for simplification of procedures, consistency of action, reduction of freneticism, and a deeper spiritual experience of the Faith in our lives.
“The reserves of spiritual energy on which the friends drew in the final months to ensure victory indicate how much greater is the inherent power of the American Bahá’í community to fulfill, in orderly fashion, the bright destiny forecast for it in our holy writings.
“LET US, therefore, face the future with confidence.”
In addition to the Five Year Plan goals already noted, the report mentioned that the goal of 400 incorporated Assemblies was won with 414, that 423 pioneers had arisen during the Plan to win that goal, and that the property acquisition goal of 10 also was achieved.
Moreover, all the expansion and consolidation goals in the Bahamas, Bermuda, the Falkland Islands, and the Turks and Caicos Islands were won.
Delegates met Saturday morning at the House of Worship to elect the new National Spiritual Assembly (see article on Page 1).
Mr. Robarts was the speaker at the Sunday breakfast. Carla Baker, a staff member at the National Information Office, sang the theme song for the International Year of the Child.
The Youth Committee’s coffeehouse, a meeting place for youth to share refreshments and exchange ideas on teaching and other youth concerns, proved a popular addition to the Convention.
Entertainers at the coffeehouse included “Friends and Company,” Steve Hampton, the McPherson family, Carla Baker, Mark Spittal, Mandy Robertson, the “New World Construction Company,” Karen Gibb, Susan Phillips and Mike Moutrie.
Children received a generous share of love and attention at the 70th Bahá’í National Convention. More than 40 volunteer teachers helped the National Education Committee organize a varied program of children’s classes, games and other activities that included ample time for snacks and other goodies.
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Six-year-old Joy Sellers (left) of Carnation, Washington, presents the book, All Things Made New, to librarian Mrs. Velma Hall at the Carnation public library. Carnation, a town of about 800 in western Washington’s Snoqualmie Valley, was opened to the Faith in the closing months of the Five Year Plan and now has a community of two adult believers and several children.
Dr. John Holt (left) receives a human rights award from Jamal Reimer, presented on behalf of the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Asheville, North Carolina, at a ceremony held last December 10.
Asheville Gives ‘Rights’ Award[edit]
The Spiritual Assembly of Asheville, North Carolina, sponsored its first Human Rights Award Banquet last December 10.
Approximately 125 people, including nearly 100 non-Bahá’ís, attended the event at which the Asheville Bahá’í community honored Dr. John Holt for his outstanding work in the cause of human and civil rights as the only minority member of the Asheville city school board.
LETTERS requesting nominations for the award were sent last summer and fall to numerous organizations. The response was quite good, and the Asheville Assembly selected Dr. Holt from the list of nominees.
The keynote address by Sherrill Hughey offered everyone present a spiritual awareness of the Bahá’í concept of human rights.
The superintendent of Asheville schools was so moved by the ceremony that he pocketed a prepared speech and spoke extemporaneously, warmly thanking the Bahá’ís for sponsoring the event.
Following the ceremony, many people asked for copies of the keynote address.
MUSIC for the banquet was arranged and performed by Nancy and Jerry McLendon; everyone who attended was given a program designed and donated by Michael Hughey, a calligrapher and design artist who is a member of the Asheville Bahá’í community.
In addition to local dignitaries, Bahá’ís from western North Carolina attended, supporting the Asheville community’s most successful proclamation event.
The banquet was covered by local newspapers and the Asheville television station.
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.
WANTED: SLIDES to be used by the Office of the Treasurer for future filmstrip programs. Needed are a large variety of visuals depicting the oneness of mankind, temples and places of worship of other religions, flowers, scenic beauty in nature, Bahá’í Holy Places, skies and sunsets, etc. Please send original slides only. They will be duplicated and returned to you. Credit will be given to each contributing photographer in the script, and in a credit slide at the end of each filmstrip. This is a wonderful opportunity to help the Office of the Treasurer in its efforts to inspire the believers to greater heights of service in the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh. Please send slides to the Office of the Treasurer, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091.
OVERSEAS JOBS: There are openings for math and science teachers in Bophuthatswana, South Africa, which is to form its National Spiritual Assembly during the Seven Year Plan. For more information, contact the International Goals Committee, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091.
ON THE WEEKEND of August 25–26, the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Binghamton, New York, is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its formation. It was in August 1929 that the believers in Binghamton sent a message to the Guardian expressing their allegiance to the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh and making known their intention to form an Assembly the following Riḍván. The first Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Binghamton was formed April 21, 1930. A loving invitation is extended to all former members of the Binghamton Bahá’í community to attend this event. The Assembly would like to contact each of these former members. Please send your name and present address to Mrs. Kay Dailey, 3 Johnson Avenue, Binghamton, NY 13905. Addresses are needed so that the Assembly can send details of the final plans for the celebration.
NUTRITIONIST NEEDED to work in the Upper Savannah Health District of South Carolina with the WIC Program. The job offers anyone willing to be a homefront pioneer a chance to further his or her career, serve humanity where such help is desperately needed, and help the Bahá’í Faith achieve its teaching and consolidation goals. A B.S. or M.S. in nutrition, dietetics, or public health is required. For information, contact Stephen Weiss, Upper Savannah Health District, Box 797, Greenwood, SC 29646, or phone 803-223-9751.
FOREST PARK, Illinois, a loving and active Bahá’í community, needs homefront pioneers to help restore its Assembly (there are presently four adult Bahá’ís in the community). Employment opportunities are good, and housing is reasonably priced in Forest Park, which is 12 miles west of Chicago and 20 miles southwest of the Bahá’í House of Worship and National Center. Public transportation is easily accessible. For more information, please phone Minou Sadeghi at 312-366-4928, or Norma or Brian O’Neill at 312-771-1731.
GREEN ACRE Bahá’í School is accepting applications for a permanent full-time position in its maintenance department. Please apply to the school at P.O. Box 17, Eliot, ME 03903.
MONTANA STATE University, in the heart of the Gallatin Valley at Bozeman, welcomes Bahá’ís to reinforce the community and its Bahá’í College Club. Several recent transfers have left the Bahá’í Club with only one member. The university offers many programs in liberal arts, humanities, and agriculture, with schools of nursing, architecture, engineering, business, education, and others. There are challenging teaching opportunities and a newly-incorporated Assembly. Many winter sports, including skiing, can be enjoyed only 15 minutes from downtown. As an extra bonus, Bozeman is only 90 miles from Yellowstone National Park. For more information, contact the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Bozeman, P.O. Box 1991, Bozeman, MT 59715, or phone 406-587-8527.
THE DEPARTMENT of Publishing at the Bahá’í World Centre has been requested to gather original poetry, essays, and music with or inspired by Bahá’í themes for consideration by the editorial committee in compiling the volumes of The Bahá’í World. Believers who have composed poetry, essays, or music that they feel has merit are invited to submit their compositions, whether or not they have been published previously, together with a letter consenting to their publication by the World Centre if they are selected for inclusion. Copyright clearance should be obtained where necessary. Submission of material to the World Centre does not preclude its submission to other sources of publication, Bahá’í or non-Bahá’í. Although only a small selection can be used—a necessity dictated by the limited size of the international record—all material will be considered and its receipt acknowledged. Kindly address submissions to the Department of Publishing, Bahá’í World Centre, P.O. Box 155, Haifa 31000, Israel.
ARE YOU A SINGER, dancer, actor, guitarist, drummer, or piano player? The New World Construction Company is using the performing arts to proclaim the Faith to thousands of people in Wisconsin and Illinois. If you’d like to find out how you can become a member of this dynamic performing group, please contact Ms. Jocelyn Boor, 1721 E. Newton, Apt. 11, Shorewood, WI 53211, or phone 414-962-4625.
NEEDED: BAHÁ’Í college students. Two historically prominent black colleges in central Ohio need Bahá’ís to form a Central College Club and to fulfill the goal of opening Wilberforce, Ohio, to the Faith. Both schools are racially diverse. For further information, please write to the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Xenia, 1251 Frost Circle, Xenia, OH 45385, or phone 513-372-5664.
IF YOU ARE INTERESTED in pioneering overseas and are an accountant, salesman, programmer, manager, distributor, or engineer, you may write to the International Goals Committee for more information about employment opportunities that may allow you to serve abroad. Some of the other fields with job openings are advertising, hotel management, banking and finance, chemicals, communications, construction, electronics and electrical engineering, industrial machinery, petroleum mining, pharmaceuticals, teaching, and government. For details, please write to the International Goals Committee, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091.
SHEBOYGAN, WISCONSIN, needs a homefront pioneer (or two or three) to help maintain its Assembly status. The community will have only eight members as of this summer. A furnished, heated flat is available rent-free until one can find a place to live and a job in Sheboygan. Help will be provided in finding work. Active Bahá’í teachers are preferred; references and a security deposit are required. Please contact Mrs. Adele Varo or Miss Coral Varo, 1207 N. 12th St., Sheboygan, WI 53081 (phone 414-458-6839).
ENTHUSIASTIC HOMEFRONT pioneers needed to help establish an Assembly. Interested in moving from the big city to a rural environment? Selah, Washington, may be the ideal place for you. There are now three adult Bahá’ís living in Selah. The main type of work available is farming, but other jobs may be found in Yakima, only five minutes away. The schools are progressive, the people friendly. For more information, call or write Judy Reneau, Route 2, Box 2400, Selah, WA 98942 (phone 509-697-3467).
ELK GROVE, California, needs Bahá’í families to settle in this growing community only 15 minutes from downtown Sacramento. There are good elementary schools as well as two-year and four-year colleges, plentiful new housing, and excellent recreational facilities. Federal and state civil service jobs are available, as well as jobs in the medical field, in nursing, electronics, and for dental technicians. The climate is pleasant. If you like a semi-rural atmosphere, not far from a state capital, Elk Grove is the place for you. For more information, contact the Bahá’ís of Elk Grove-Galt J.D., P.O. Box 276, Elk Grove, CA 95624.
WOULD YOU LIKE to be a homefront pioneer in the fastest-growing town in Oregon? Woodburn, with a population of 11,000, has doubled in size in the last few years. Its first Spiritual Assembly was formed at Riḍván 1978. Needed are people who can help host firesides, Feasts, and public meetings, and especially someone who can speak Spanish to help with teaching and consolidation among the town’s 500 Hispanic residents. Anyone wishing further information should write to Walter D. Owen, 1312 Princeton Road, Woodburn, OR 97071.
AN ELDERLY BAHÁ’Í in Warrensburg, Missouri, would like to share her home with another woman in exchange for help with the housework. Food, lodging, linen, washing, transportation, etc., will be furnished. For further information, please contact Josephine O’Bert, 600 Hancock, Warrensburg, MO 64093.
WANTED: BAHÁ’Í YOUTH or adults interested in partial scholarship (work/study) positions at the New York Bahá’í Summer School at Poughkeepsie from July 21–August 5. Needed are general kitchen workers, a groundskeeper, a housekeeper, and a coordinator (to supervise volunteer help during the school sessions). Please apply to the New York Bahá’í School Committee, c/o Mrs. Susan Powers, 34 Bloomer Road, Ridgefield, CT 06877, or phone 203-438-7155.
HELP PLAINVIEW achieve Assembly status! Needed: young person or couple to live in with quadriplegic psychologist to assist with activities of daily living. Community college and four-year college nearby. Abundant Bahá’í teaching opportunities in this Texas panhandle town of 23,000. For information, please contact Sam Parker, 609 W. 10th St., Plainview, TX 79072, or phone 806-293-8080.
Twenty Bahá’ís from several Virginia communities gathered April 7-8 in South Hill for a ‘Victory Conference’ whose purpose was to help form an Assembly in South Hill and open half a dozen nearby localities to the Faith. Following the conference, Bahá’í teachers raised the number of believers in South Hill to eight and opened five localities: Victoria, Brodnax, La Crosse, Emporia, and Boydton. Among those who attended the conference was Auxiliary Board member Albert James.
U.S. Team Commended for Pacific Tour[edit]
The four-member black teaching team sent from the U.S. to the South Pacific region early this year to aid the teaching work there has been commended by the Universal House of Justice, the Continental Board of Counsellors in Australasia, and the various National Spiritual Assemblies that the team assisted.
A letter from the International Teaching Centre in Haifa had this to say:
“We are sure that you, and also the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States, will be delighted to learn of the enthusiastic response which has been given to the black musical teaching group from the United States when they visited the South Pacific islands.
“Recently we shared with the Universal House of Justice one report of an extraordinary, even heroic, trip of this team in company with an intrepid Auxiliary Board member, Mrs. Jo Barlow, into the back jungle country of the Solomon Islands.
“The Supreme Body responded by stating that it was hoped that in some way its commendations regarding the work of the teaching team could be shared with the National Assembly of the U.S. so they would be aware of the appreciation for the efforts of these devoted believers.”
Counsellor Owen Battrick of Australasia reported the following in a letter telling of the team’s travels in the Solomon Islands (see The American Bahá’í, May 1979):
“EACH DAY as they rose from their mats and, after eating, prepared to set off again, most of them felt (and this they told me individually), ‘I can’t manage it today—my feet are too sore, my body too tired.’
“Prayers cheered them and they would prepare to leave (none daring to say to another, ‘I can’t go on’). As they were about to go each one would plead with Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Help me, let me continue on this walk, let me do as ‘Abdu’l-Bahá wishes He could be allowed to do.’
“They would say the ‘Remover of Difficulties’ and all of them spoke of their prayers being answered. After two paces or so on painful feet they would feel no more pain and off they would go.
“There were, of course, places where the going was comparatively easy, a well-worn pathway, and by what they all said, they were so happy.
“WHEN THEY tell you of their trip, whether they refer to the difficulties or the joys, you wish you had been there. Why does one wish this? Well, it’s the joyful look in their eyes.”
After leaving the Solomon Islands the team went to Papua New Guinea, where it remained from March 3 to the end of April. Some excerpts from a letter by team member Darral Pugh tell of their stay there:
“The receptivity in Papua New Guinea has been phenomenal. Hundreds have attended meetings to hear Bahá’u’lláh’s message, and many have responded positively with a few declarations.
“A radio interview was held while we were in Rabaul; Mark Sisson was interviewed for 30 minutes on our reason for being in Papua New Guinea and the principles of the Faith.
“In Lae, we were greeted by most of the Bahá’ís in that community. Each of us was given a lei that was made by the children; there was a large sign saying, ‘Welcome to our Bahá’í friends from America.’ We spoke to more than 1,000 students at several high schools there.”
The team returned to the U.S. May 3 after more than four months of strenuous but rewarding service at the threshold of the Blessed Beauty.
Career in Health, Bahá’í Service Are Compatible[edit]
(EDITOR’S NOTE: This is the second of two articles for young people on careers in health care by Alfred K. Neumann, M.D., M.P.H.; Irvin M. Lourie, M.D., M.P.H., and Harriet S. Lourie, B.A., M.Ed.)
Assuming that one wants to pursue a career in health and combine it with Bahá’í work in the U.S. or abroad, how early does one have to specify his career choice, and how does he obtain the proper professional preparation?
The answer is that he does not have to decide on a special area of study until entering graduate school, and may even postpone such a decision until toward the end of the first year of a graduate program that is expected to last at least 18 to 24 months.
IDEALLY, one should begin as an undergraduate to pursue a broad-based program combining biological and social sciences and work experience in health sector organizations.
To this should be added language training and experience that teach one to adapt to the unexpected; for example, backpacking and camping, and living under less than ideal conditions with numerous frustrations (water and power failure, or their limited existence and inadequate or slow servicing).
One should learn how to manage efficiently his or her personal and financial affairs, practice good nutrition and cultivate hygienic and good living habits—to protect one’s health.
One must also develop and improve those specific skills in demand in the professional marketplace. This requires constant monitoring of what is available in jobs and what employers are seeking.
THIS IS accomplished by looking at the “positions available” sections of professional journals and professional school bulletin boards, keeping in touch with the job information “grapevine,” checking civil service listings, contacting the cultural/educational attachés of developing countries, and interviewing job placement counselors.
Also relevant is a constant process of asking “Who am I?” and “How do I best function?” Many factors enter into the optimization of a career choice.
There is no short cut to professional excellence. After at least six years of training culminating in a master’s degree, relevant work experience is required. At the end of this path, however, you are in a good position professionally for the rest of your life.
As you do market research regarding job requirements, you will learn about availability.
Generally speaking, international job opportunities are via foreign “direct hire” arrangements or contracts with U.S.-based companies, foundations or universities.
Contracts are usually for two years, and often are renewable. They ordinarily include travel expenses, visa arrangements, housing, insurance and a relatively good salary.
Good luck and best wishes to all of you.
This sculpture was among several by Holly Enomoto, a Bahá’í who is studying art at the Colorado Women’s College in Denver, that were displayed April 5 at the school’s Houston Fine Arts Center. Working primarily with ceramics and steel, Ms. Enomoto develops her sculptures around Bahá’í themes and often uses candles to illustrate the concepts of God’s light as reflected in His creation. The theme of her April exhibit was ‘Foundations of Light,’ taken from a quote by the Báb, ‘...transform us through Thy bounty into that which Thou Thyself dost possess and enable us to become fountains of light... .’
The Bahá’í Group of Alamosa, Colorado, participated February 28 in a ‘World Awareness Day’ observance at Adams State College. Here a professor at the college (second from right) is shown the booth by Bahá’ís (left to right) Gabriel Lazance, Roshan Zaray, and Mahvash Sheshbaradaran.
[Page 17]
The newly-formed Local Spiritual Assembly of Calabasas-Topanga, California, held its Recognition Ceremony on February 4 in Calabasas. Among those attending were National Spiritual Assembly member Richard D. Betts and Auxiliary Board member Joyce Dahl. The ceremony included a banquet dinner and was touched by the dignity and joy that mark the formation of a new Institution of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh. Pictured (left to right) are Assembly members Ken Zemke, Jeff Banks, Sharon Barnes, Ramiz Maher, Betty Ulius, Mary Zemke, John Barnes. Not pictured are Ron Sager and Glenda Sager.
The Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of La Canada-Flintridge, California, was formed last October 3, held its Recognition Ceremony on February 23, and was incorporated in April. Assembly members are (seated left to right) Peggie Moore, Audrey Johnson, Behnaz Sohrab, and (standing left to right) Oliver Moore, Missagh Maani, Lili Sohrab, Sholeh Maani, Kambiz Maani, Soheil Sohrab.
Book Review
‘Decoding’ Child’s Non-Verbal Messages[edit]
(SIGNALS: What Your Child Is Really Telling You, by Paul Ackerman and Murry M. Kappelman. New York: Dial Press, 1978. Reviewed by Geoffry W. Marks, assistant to the secretary for Community Administration at the Bahá’í National Center. Mr. Marks has a doctorate in education from the University of Massachusetts and has been involved in child education in the Bahá’í community for a number of years.)
An intrinsic part of childhood is the sending of messages in the form of signals—non-verbal actions the meaning of which must be decoded by parents if the help their child is seeking is to be provided.
Signals are used by children to convey their innermost desires and feelings, and thus their correct decoding is essential if open communication between parent and child is to be achieved.
THIS IS THE message of SIGNALS: What Your Child Is Really Telling You, by a psychologist (Ackerman) and pediatrician (Kappelman).
The temper tantrum of the four-year-old, the lying of the third grader, the sudden failure at school of the adolescent, the bitter rivalry between siblings—all are signals that normal, well-adjusted children send their parents to communicate that they are grappling with deep-seated worries and problems they are unable to verbalize.
An example of a signal cited in the book is the shoplifting done by a 13-year-old girl from a well-to-do family. The authors learned that her parents had been divorced after years of bitter psychological combat during which the children were largely ignored.
By stealing, the girl forced her parents into joint action on her behalf. She made them spend time with her on her problem, and got a measure of revenge for the years of neglect.
BY UNDERSTANDING the message behind the shoplifting, her parents had the opportunity to help her deal more effectively with their divorce and begin to compensate for the lack of attention she had suffered.
Other signals discussed in the book include fantasy friends and other fantasies, bed-wetting and soiling, stuttering, hyperactivity, shyness and withdrawal, running away from home, refusal to eat, sleeplessness, immature and regressive behavior, school phobias, over-reaction to stress, friendlessness, excessive attachment to family or friends, frequent physical complaints, anti-social behavior, male effeminate or female masculine behavior, suicide threats, and promiscuity.
Any signal, the authors explain, can be caused by any one of a number of problems. Through careful observation and gentle probing, one can identify the cause or message behind the signal and help the child solve the problem.
Drs. Ackerman and Kappelman, writing in clear and easy-to-read language free of technical jargon, present their subject in a sensitive, moderate, and straightforward manner that reflects the calm and reasoned way of relating to children that they recommend.
SIGNALS is filled with hundreds of examples and case studies that illustrate their points and make the book engaging. The result is a text insightful in its analogies, enlightening in the answers it provides, and instructive in the over-all approach it advocates.
The book’s 281 pages also contain guidelines for preventive parenting and a discussion of how to make good use of professionals such as the teacher, pediatrician and family physician, child psychiatrist, psychologist and social worker. It has an extensive index and sells for $8.95 hardback.
Bahá’í parents in particular will find SIGNALS helpful, because the emphasis the Faith’s teachings place on the development of character and morals makes them eager to learn whatever will aid them in becoming more effective parents.
Bahá’ís recognize that effective communication is essential to harmonious and healthful living.
FAILURE to respond positively to a child’s attempts to communicate—whether verbal or nonverbal—frustrates the child and, if the message is undetected, can cause a rift in the parent-child relationship that will be difficult to bridge later on.
While Bahá’ís will find the authors’ position on premarital sex and homosexuality at variance with Bahá’í moral standards, this is secondary to the primary message that such behavior is symptomatic of deeper problems that must be dealt with.
|
KINDLE
THE FIRE OF FAITH IN MEN’S HEARTS TEACH WITH BOOKS.
For advice on books suitable for your needs, ask your local Bahá’í librarian, or write Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 415 Linden Ave., Wilmette, Illinois 60091. |
The difference in standards underscores the need for Bahá’í parents to be well-schooled in the techniques of dealing with children’s signals early on so that the bond between parent and child will remain strong and the child will willingly adopt the parents’ values in the teen-age years.
SIGNALS is of the same genre as Thomas Gordon’s Parent Effectiveness Training (P.E.T.); however, it goes deeper into the possible causes of a child’s erratic and puzzling behavior and tells one how to understand the message behind the child’s behavior so that he can draw the child out and help him deal with his feelings.
SIGNALS is highly recommended for parents, prospective parents, and professionals serving children and families.
Well-supervised children’s activities were very much a part of the 70th Bahá’í National Convention in April.
Suggestions Are Offered For Family FUN Times[edit]
Welcome! Here are some activities on consultation that your family might like to use for your Family Unity Nights (FUN).
Is your family having fun during FUN nights? Yes? Great! Here are some more ideas that should help you to have a pleasant and growing experience.
FIRST, read the activities below as a family. Then do the exercises.
Make a plan for the evening.
Decide what prayers each person will say or read.
Memorize a selection from the suggestions, or of your own choosing.
Play a game. Have you played Scrabble? Why not try it using only Bahá’í-related words or virtue words.
Make a gift for a friend.
Plan a visit to someone who is ill.
Pot some small plants to take to a nearby nursing home.
Listen to music.
LEARN songs from the album, “Songs for World Peace,” available from the U.S. Committee for UNICEF, 331 East 38th St., New York, NY 10016, for $1.25.
Put together the “UNICEF Friendship Circle Puzzle” (available from the same source for $3).
Do any members of your family play musical instruments? Play them together while everyone sings.
Do the activities suggested in the articles appearing in The American Bahá’í.
Select a book to read aloud. Try God Loves Laughter by William Sears. Read a part each night that your family gets together. Take turns reading aloud.
RECITE the prayers and selections from the Writings learned previously.
Write a letter to a pioneer family you know telling about Bahá’í activities in your family and community.
Plan a picnic breakfast for a weekend. Have you ever had eggs and bacon and toast prepared over an outdoor grill? Mmmmmmm! They’re delicious! Have dawn prayers first. Then go to a park or beach for hours of fun.
Which of these activities would you like to include in your FUN? Perhaps you’d like to make your own list. That’s good. Then to find out which ones are best for your family:
HAVE each member select three family activities he or she would most like to do. After each one has chosen his or her favorite activities, share them with the family as a group.
Now, consult together and as a family unit decide which three activities you’d most like to do together during Family Unity Nights. Once this has been decided, choose which activity you’d like to do first.
Finally, plan the activity. Volunteer to do a part that appeals to you. As a family, assign members to perform other tasks. Remember, the secret of success is to have everyone participate.
Do you know what you’ve been doing? You’ve been having family consultation. You’ve been creating family unity. This is the beginning. And it starts with you and me.
We’d like to know your family’s opinion! Do you like the Family Unity Night (FUN) idea? Please let us hear from you. Write to the National Education Committee, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091.
World-Wide Goals
SEVEN YEAR PLAN (FIRST TWO-YEAR PHASE)
| Pioneers | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AFRICA | High Priority |
Secondary Priority | ||
| (F) | Benin | 2 | 2 | |
| (E) | Botswana | 2 | 2 | |
| (F) | Burundi | 2 | 1 | |
| (F) | (E) Cameroon Republic | 3 | 3 | |
| (F) | Central African Empire | 5 | ||
| (F) | Gabon | 2 | 2 | |
| (E) | Gambia | 2 | 2 | |
| (F) | Ivory Coast & Mali | 4 | ||
| (E) | Lesotho | 2 | 2 | |
| (E) | (F) Liberia & Guinea | 2 | ||
| (F) | Madagascar | 4 | ||
| (F) | Mauritania | 2 | 2 | |
| (A) | (F) (S) Morocco | 2 | 2 | |
| (E) | Nigeria | 5 | 5 | |
| (F) | Reunion | 1 | 1 | |
| (F) | Rwanda | 2 | 1 | |
| (F) | Senegal | 2 | ||
| (E) | Seychelles | 1 | ||
| (E) | Sierra Leone | 2 | ||
| (E) | South & West Africa | 2 | ||
| (A) | (E) Sudan | 2 | ||
| (E) | Swaziland for | 2 | ||
| (P) | Mozambique & Angola | |||
| (E) | Tanzania | 5 | 3 | |
| (F) | Tunisia | 2 | 2 | |
| (E) | Zambia | 2 | ||
| (F) | Zaire | 8 | 10 | |
| 56 | 54 | |||
| AMERICAS | ||||
| (S) | Argentina | 3 | ||
| (E) | Bahamas | 2 | 4 | |
| (S) | Bolivia | 4 | ||
| (E) | Barbados/Windward Islands | |||
| Barbados | 1 | 2 | ||
| Windward Islands | 6 | 4 | ||
| (S) | (E) Belize | 2 | 2 | |
| (E) | Bermuda | 2 | 2 | |
| (S) | Chile | 1 | ||
| (S) | Colombia | 4 | ||
| (S) | Costa Rica | 2 | 2 | |
| (S) | Dominican Republic | 2 | ||
| (S) | Ecuador | 3 | ||
| (S) | El Salvador | 2 | 2 | |
| (E) | Falkland Islands | 2 | ||
| (F) | (E) French Antilles | 4 | 2 | |
| (S) | Guatemala | 4 | 3 | |
| (E) | Guyana | 2 | ||
| (F) | Haiti | 2 | ||
| (S) | Honduras | 2 | 2 | |
| (E) | Jamaica | 2 | ||
| (E) | Leeward/Virgin Islands | 4 | 3 | |
| (S) | Mexico | 8 | 8 | |
| (S) | Nicaragua | 4 | 2 | |
| (S) | Paraguay | 2 | 2 | |
| (S) | Peru | 4 | ||
| (S) | Puerto Rico | 2 | ||
| (F) | Surinam/French Guiana | |||
| Surinam | 2 | 2 | ||
| French Guiana | 4 | 3 | ||
| (E) | Trinidad & Tobago | 3 | ||
| (E) | Turks & Caicos | 1 | ||
| (S) | Uruguay | 2 | 2 | |
| (S) | Venezuela | 2 | 2 | |
| 60 | 79 | |||
| ASIA | ||||
| (E) | Bangladesh | 2 | 3 | |
| (E) | Caroline Islands | 2 | ||
| (C) | (E) Hong Kong | 2 | 2 | |
| (E) | India | 10 | ||
| (E) | Marshall Islands | 2 | 2 | |
| (E) | Nepal | 2 | 2 | |
| (E) | Philippines | 6 | ||
| (E) | Sikkim | 2 | 2 | |
| (E) | Sri Lanka | 2 | 2 | |
| (E) | Taiwan | 4 | 2 | |
| (E) | (T) Thailand | 6 | 4 | |
| 27 | 37 | |||
| AUSTRALASIA | ||||
| (E) | Fiji Islands | 2 | ||
| (E) | Gilbert Is./ Tuvalu | |||
| Gilbert Islands | 4 | |||
| Tuvalu | 2 | |||
| (E) | New Hebrides | 2 | ||
| (E) | New Zealand | |||
| Chatham Island | 1 | |||
| Cook Island | 1 | 1 | ||
| Niue Island | 1 | 1 | ||
| (E) | Papua New Guinea | 4 | 4 | |
| (E) | Samoa (American) | 1 | ||
| (E) | Solomon Islands | 4 | 2 | |
| (F) | South West Pac. Is. | |||
| Loyalty Islands | 1 | |||
| Marquesas Islands | 1 | |||
| New Caledonia | 2 | |||
| Society Islands | 2 | 2 | ||
| Tuamoto Arch. | 1 | |||
| 26 | 13 | |||
| EUROPE | ||||
| (G) | Austria | 3 | 2 | |
| (Gr) | (E) Cyprus | 4 | 2 | |
| (Dn) | Denmark | 4 | 4 | |
| (Fn) | Finland | 4 | ||
| (Gr) | Greece | 4 | ||
| (I) | Iceland | 2 | ||
| (E) | Ireland | 2 | ||
| (O) | Netherlands | 3 | 2 | |
| (N) | Norway | 2 | 2 | |
| (P) | Portugal | 2 | 3 | |
| (S) | Spain | 5 | ||
| (Sw) | Sweden | 2 | 4 | |
| (F) | (G) (It) Switzerland | 4 | ||
| 20 | 40 | |||
| TOTAL PIONEERS—412 | ||||
| Africa | 56 | 54 | ||
| Americas | 60 | 79 | ||
| Asia | 27 | 37 | ||
| Australasia | 26 | 13 | ||
| Europe | 20 | 40 | ||
| Traveling Teachers | |
|---|---|
| HIGH PRIORITY | |
| AFRICA | |
| (F) | Benin |
| (E) | Botswana |
| (F) | (E) Cameroon Republic |
| (F) | Central African Empire |
| (E) | Gambia |
| (E) | Ghana |
| (E) | Lesotho |
| (F) | Madagascar |
| (A) | (F) Mauritania |
| (F) | Mauritius |
| (E) | Nigeria |
| (F) | Reunion |
| (E) | Seychelles |
| (E) | South and West Africa |
| (E) | Tanzania |
| (E) | Zambia |
| AMERICAS | |
| (E) | Bahamas |
| (E) | Barbados and Windward Islands |
| (S) | Cuba |
| (F) | (E) French Antilles |
| (F) | French Guiana |
| (S) | Guatemala |
| (F) | Haiti |
| (E) | Leeward and Virgin Islands |
| (S) | Nicaragua |
| (S) | Paraguay |
| (S) | Uruguay |
| (S) | Venezuela |
| ASIA | |
| (E) | Bangladesh |
| (E) | Burma |
| (E) | Caroline Islands |
| (E) | (C) Hong Kong |
| (E) | Marshall Islands |
| (E) | Pakistan |
| (E) | Sikkim |
| (E) | Sri Lanka |
| (E) | Taiwan |
| (E) | (T) Thailand |
| AUSTRALASIA | |
| (E) | Gilbert Islands and Tuvalu |
| (E) | Papua New Guinea |
| (E) | Samoa |
| (E) | Solomon Islands |
| (F) | South West Pacific Ocean |
| EUROPE | |
| (Dn) | Denmark |
| (Fn) | Finland |
| (I) | Iceland |
| (N) | Norway |
| (Sw) | Sweden |
| (F) | (G) (It) Switzerland |
| SECONDARY PRIORITY | |
| AFRICA | |
| (F) | Burundi |
| (F) | Chad |
| (F) | Ivory Coast and Mali |
| (E) | Kenya |
| (E) | Liberia and Guinea |
| (E) | Malawi |
| (F) | Rwanda |
| (E) | Sierra Leone |
| (A) | (F) Sudan |
| (E) | Swaziland |
| (F) | Togo |
| (F) | Upper Volta |
| (F) | Zaire |
| AMERICAS | |
| (S) | Argentina |
| (S) | Bolivia |
| (P) | Brazil |
| (S) | Colombia |
| (S) | Costa Rica |
| (S) | Dominican Republic |
| (S) | Ecuador |
| (S) | El Salvador |
| (E) | Guyana |
| (S) | Honduras |
| (E) | Jamaica |
| (S) | Mexico |
| (S) | Peru |
| (S) | Puerto Rico |
| (F) | Surinam |
| ASIA | |
| (E) | India |
| (E) | (J) Japan |
| (K) | Korea |
| (E) | Malaysia (East) |
| (E) | Marianas |
| (E) | Philippines |
| AUSTRALASIA | |
| (E) | New Hebrides |
| (E) | Tonga |
| EUROPE | |
| (G) | Austria |
| (Gr) | (E) Cyprus |
| (F) | France |
| (G) | Germany |
| (E) | Ireland |
| (It) | Italy |
| (F) | (G) Luxembourg |
| (D) | Netherlands |
| (P) | Portugal |
| (S) | Spain |
| LANGUAGE KEY | |
| A—Arabic | |
| C—Chinese | |
| Dn—Danish | |
| D—Dutch | |
| E—English | |
| F—French | |
| Fn—Finnish | |
| G—German | |
| Gr—Greek | |
| I—Icelandic | |
| It—Italian | |
| K—Korean | |
| P—Portuguese | |
| S—Spanish | |
| Sw—Swedish | |
| T—Thai | |
In Memoriam[edit]
- Leslie Alton
- Elgin, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Annie Anderson
- Mullins, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Chris Boyd
- Ridgeville, S.C.
- March 2, 1979
- Willie Boyd
- Summerton, S.C.
- November 1977
- Willie E. Bracey
- Westville, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Paul Harold Brown
- Topeka, Kansas
- April 3, 1979
- Mrs. Virginia Brown
- Moncks Corner, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Ralph J. Burgen
- Cambridge, Mass.
- February 9, 1979
- Mrs. Mabel Carter
- Williams, S.C.
- January 1, 1979
- Mrs. Norine G. Chadil
- Lomita, California
- March 10, 1979
- Mrs. Carrie Clark
- Mayesville, S.C.
- January 1977
- Henry Clark
- Mayesville, S.C.
- January 1978
- Miss Isabell Clark
- Lancaster, S.C.
- April 7, 1979
- Darsey E. Collins
- Vienna, Maryland
- March 25, 1979
- Ron Collins
- Rains, S.C.
- February 1979
- Charles Cotton
- Roanoke, Virginia
- March 31, 1979
- Mrs. Ethel Mae Davis
- Gresham, S.C.
- 1978
- Mrs. Jessie Bell Davis
- Marion, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Phillip Dixon
- Fort Mill, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Annie Bell Drew
- Marion, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Herman Dubose
- Union Springs, Ala.
- November 1977
- Limie Evans
- Rowlett, Texas
- January 2, 1979
- Mose Evans
- N. Myrtle Beach, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Ralph Franks
- Florence, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- William Frazier
- Salters, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Willie Goodman
- Bennettsville, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Edward W. Grayson
- Mira Loma, Calif.
- April 9, 1979
- Mrs. Irene Greggs
- Norfolk, Virginia
- September 19, 1977
- Thomas Huggins
- Manning, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Buck Johnson
- Carrollton, Texas
- Date Unknown
- George Johnson
- Lancaster, Kentucky
- January 19, 1979
- Lorenza Johnson
- Smoaks, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Curtis King
- Greenwood, Miss.
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Joan Kinney
- Teaneck, New Jersey
- Date Unknown
- Fred D. Kendrick Sr.
- Brattleboro, Vermont
- March 31, 1979
- Mrs. Elizabeth Kirk
- Fort Mill, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Sarah Lacy
- Greenwood, Miss.
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Rena Langston
- Marion, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Tommie Lister
- Rowlett, Texas
- February 2, 1979
- Milton Lundblade
- Whittier, California
- November 20, 1978
- Eugene McCoy
- Lancaster, S.C.
- November 7, 1978
- Mrs. Pearlie McLaughlin
- Bennettsville, S.C.
- March 1979
- Mrs. Recie McHoney
- Naples, Florida
- Date Unknown
- Florence Middleton
- Lexington, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- James Mitchell
- Yonges Island, S.C.
- March 24, 1979
- Luvern Miller
- Galivants Ferry, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Maggie J. Mobley
- Chester, S.C.
- March 1976
- Mrs. Rebecca Moody
- Marion, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Albert Price
- Kershaw, S.C.
- December 27, 1978
- Daniel Ridges
- Bennettsville, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Fred Ridges
- Bennettsville, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Dorothy Rhone
- Texarkana, Texas
- Date Unknown
- Habibullah Safaipour
- Flushing, New York
- February 28, 1979
- Mrs. Mildred L. Sayles
- Providence, R.I.
- March 26, 1979
- David R. Simons
- Waukesha, Wisconsin
- April 13, 1979
- Eric Soby
- Federal Way, Wash.
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Annie Sparks
- Marion, S.C.
- 1977
- Mrs. Eunice Summers
- Leesville, S.C.
- 1978
- Sam Thomas
- Summerton, S.C.
- 1978
- Roger Van Schalk
- Chicago, Illinois
- March 3, 1979
- Dempsey Waiters
- Elloree, S.C.
- 1978
- James Watson
- Fort Mill, S.C.
- 1975
- Eddie White
- Marion, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Annie Mae Williams
- Florence, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Cleveland Williams Sr.
- Georgetown, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Dan Williams
- Lugoff, S.C.
- March 19, 1973
- Robert W. Williams
- Chicago, Illinois
- January 29, 1979
- Norman Williams
- Florence, S.C.
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Ora G. Woodard
- Cleveland, Ohio
- February 28, 1979
- Mrs. Elnora Wright
- Franklin, Virginia
- Date Unknown
- Jimmy Yates
- Mullins, S.C.
- Date Unknown
Naw-Rúz Observance Raises Funds[edit]
The Bahá’í Groups of Winchester, Front Royal and Frederick County, Virginia, held a combination Naw-Rúz party and fund-raising dinner and concert on Saturday, March 25.
Fifty-five people attended the event that included a slide presentation about the Bahá’í world community by Greg Dahl of Vienna, Virginia, entertainment by children in the three communities, and songs by Eric and Kathy Cowan who are members of the musical group, “Touchstone.”
The Cowans donated proceeds from the sale of their album, Runes, that includes several songs related to the Faith.
Tickets to the event were sold only to Bahá’ís, who kept some for their own use and gave others to seekers and friends. Thanks to those who participated, a check for $336.85 was sent to the National Bahá’í Fund.
To commemorate Naw-Rúz, Mrs. Tina Edwards and her daughter, Jamala, asked permission to host a celebration at Jamala’s elementary school in Santa Rosa, California. The celebration was warmly received, with Mrs. Edwards giving a brief talk that drew attention to the oneness of God, mankind and religion, and her daughter reading Blessed Is the Spot. Later, the children planted seeds and colored cards with a nine-pointed star and Bahá’í ringstone symbol on them in celebration of the Bahá’í New Year.
Paul Brown, Devoted Servant Of Cause, Dies at Age of 82[edit]
Paul Brown, who helped establish the first Local Spiritual Assembly in his hometown of Topeka, Kansas, and served the Cause of God faithfully for more than 45 years, died April 3 at the age of 82 and was buried not far from the farm where he was born.
The home that Mr. Brown and his wife, May, established near Topeka served as a Bahá’í Center and home for many Bahá’ís passing through the area over the years.
MR. BROWN also served the National Spiritual Assembly as a member of a three-state Area Teaching Committee and as a highly-skilled carpenter.
He devoted many months to voluntary service in the Wilmette area, working on construction of the Foundation Stone room and nearby area, the Activities Office, and the covering of the entrance to Foundation Hall in the House of Worship; as contractor and carpenter for building the Bahá’í Publishing Trust at 415 Linden Avenue in Wilmette and for structural renovation of the Bahá’í Home.
During several summers he devoted full time to building and repairing facilities at the Green Acre and Geyserville Bahá’í Schools.
Mr. Brown’s many services to the Faith are a fitting memorial to the memory of a devoted and talented believer.
Two of three display cases that housed a Bahá’í exhibit January 7-29 at the University of North Carolina Student Union building in Chapel Hill. The exhibit was prepared and sponsored by the University of North Carolina Bahá’í Club and was advertised in the ‘Calendar of Events’ section of the campus newspaper, The Daily Tar Heel.
Child’s Spiritual Training Most Important[edit]
(EDITOR’S NOTE: This is the first in a series of articles on moral and spiritual education by Dr. Susan Theroux of Fredonia, New York. Dr. Theroux received her Ph.D. in education at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst.)
Overview[edit]
The teachings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá indicate clearly that the moral and spiritual education of the child is of the utmost importance:
“But the indispensable basis of all is that he should develop spiritual characteristics and the praiseworthy virtues of humankind. This is the primary consideration.” (Bahá’í Education: A Compilation, p. 42)
AS PARENTS and teachers, we want very much to assist our children to develop these characteristics and virtues, but often we are not sure exactly what to do.
Each situation requires a judgment and a decision of its own, and no one can tell a parent precisely how to act. There are, however, general guidelines and principles that may be helpful. These articles will explore some of the issues and principles involved and suggest some steps that can be taken to facilitate the moral and spiritual development of the next generation.
It is important to make a distinction between “moral” and “spiritual”; they are not the same. Moral behavior refers to a certain kind of action—one that conforms to Bahá’í law or serves humanity in some way. Spiritual behavior, however, refers to the motive behind the action—performed out of love for God.
A MORAL behavior can be brought about for many reasons: fear of punishment or censure, a wish for reward or praise, the hope that a kind deed will be returned, and so on. All of these are selfish motives.
The same action performed for love of Bahá’u’lláh is spiritual. Bahá’u’lláh said: “Observe My commandments for the love of My beauty.” (Synopsis and Codification of the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, p. 12)
Having a spiritual motive is important because it guarantees proper action. A selfish motive can lead one to either moral or immoral behavior. Of course, everyone acts for a variety of motives, and one cannot spend time needlessly worrying about whether he is spiritual or not. It is possible, however, to deepen one’s inner life and to give children an awareness of spiritual realities, thereby making spiritual action more frequent and natural.
ANOTHER way of looking at the differences between moral and spiritual development is to see them as operating on different planes of existence. Moral behavior is a product of the human or rational level; spiritual behavior of the spiritual or divine level. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá explains:
“The human spirit which distinguishes man from the animal is the rational soul; and these two names—the human spirit and the rational soul—designate one thing. But the human spirit, unless assisted by the spirit of faith, does not become acquainted with the divine secrets and the heavenly realities.” (Bahá’í World Faith, p. 317)
With the rational faculties one can determine the appropriate (or moral) behavior, but more than this is necessary for spiritual development. One must learn to call upon the “spirit of faith,” the realization that “every created thing is a sign of the revelation of God” (Bahá’í World Faith, p. 97), if spiritual motives are to support the moral behavior.
ON THE HUMAN level one learns the difference between right and wrong and how to determine the consequences of one’s actions. One learns to control his behavior by using the mind to overrule the animal or selfish nature.
On the spiritual level, one turns this control of self over to God so that the Will of God becomes the motivation for action. At this level one is able to understand one’s action in the light of the ultimate purpose of creation.
Thus, for our own spiritual growth, as well as in working with children, we are actually aiming toward two types of goals: knowing the laws and principles of the Faith and how to use them (moral development), and becoming aware of spiritual realities and how they operate in everyday life (spiritual development). The two must go hand in hand, but for purposes of this discussion they will be considered separately.
Spiritual Education: Developing Spiritual Consciousness[edit]
‘Abdu’l-Bahá has explained for us the two sides of man’s nature:
“In man there are two natures; his spiritual or higher nature and his material or lower nature. In one he approaches God, in the other he lives for the world alone.” (Paris Talks, p. 60)
“(Man) has the animal side as well as the angelic side; and the aim of an educator is to so train human souls, that their angelic aspect may overcome their animal side.” (Bahá’í World Faith, p. 331)
The materialistic side of man is a part of the material world and is apprehended or known through the senses. One can see, hear, touch, taste and smell the parts of the material world, including one’s own body.
The spiritual aspect of man is a part of the spiritual world and cannot be apprehended through the five senses. Nevertheless, one can become aware of spiritual realities, and this awareness might be called “spiritual consciousness.”
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And welcome to the 70th Bahá’í National Convention! Of course, after four days of whirlwind activity, a person could hardly be blamed if she couldn’t quite remember whether she was coming or going.
