The American Bahá’í/Volume 13/Issue 7/Text
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[Page 1]
‘THE GREATEST HOLY LEAF’
Bahíyyih Khánum’s exemplary life worthy of emulation[edit]
“A sorrow, reminiscent in its poignancy of the devastating grief caused by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s sudden removal from our midst, has stirred the Bahá’í world to its foundations. The Greatest Holy Leaf, the well-beloved and treasured Remnant of Bahá’u’lláh entrusted to our frail and unworthy hands by our beloved Master, has passed to the Great Beyond, leaving a legacy that time can never dim.”
With these words Shoghi Effendi began his tribute to the memory of Bahíyyih Khánum, daughter of Bahá’u’lláh, addressing the Bahá’ís of the West in July 1932. Now, 50 years after her passing, we would do well to refamiliarize ourselves with her life.
HER example, second only to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s as a pure expression of the divine attributes and loving nature enjoined upon mankind by their Father, stands as a pattern worthy of emulation in all fields of Bahá’í service.
The beloved Guardian recalled for us her “purity of life that reflected itself in even the minutest details of her daily occupations ... a tenderness of heart that obliterated every distinction of
Four more Bahá’ís martyred as persecutions in Iran continue[edit]
FURTHER RECENT MESSAGE ON RECRUDESCENCE PERSECUTIONS IRAN, NEWS JUST RECEIVED TWO OTHER STAUNCH BELIEVERS MARTYRED BY FIRING SQUAD IN IRAN. THEY ARE: MR. AGHAHU’LLAH CHIZFAHM AND MRS. JALALIYYIH MUSHTAIL. BOTH MEMBERS LOCAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY URUMIYYIH.
MAY 11, 1982
WITH UTMOST SADNESS ANNOUNCE EXECUTION ON 16 MAY TWO MORE VALIANT SOULS CRADLE FAITH SA‘DU’LLAH BABAZADIH AND NASRU’LLAH AMINI, MEMBERS SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY KHANIABAD VILLAGE NEAR TIHRAN. DEATH SENTENCE HANDED DOWN OVER TWO MONTHS AGO, HOWEVER EXECUTION POSTPONED WHILE INTENSE PRESSURE BROUGHT TO BEAR UPON TWO CONDEMNED BAHÁ’ÍS RECANT FAITH OBTAIN FREEDOM. THESE TWO STEADFAST FRIENDS WHO PREFERRED MARTYRDOM TO DENIAL FAITH WERE BURIED UNCEREMONIOUSLY WITHOUT FAMILY FRIENDS BEING INFORMED. AFTER SEVEN DAYS RELATIVES FORTUITOUSLY DISCOVERED EXECUTION THEIR LOVED ONES.
ALTHOUGH FEW BAHÁ’Í PRISONERS RELEASED, ARRESTS CONTINUE THROUGHOUT COUNTRY.
MAY 16, 1982
Congress hears Bahá’í testimony on Iran[edit]
LOVING CONGRATULATIONS SUCCESS CONGRESSIONAL HEARINGS INDICATING ADDED PRESTIGE NOW ENJOYED FAITH YOUR COUNTRY. HIGHLY VALUE YOUR WISE SUSTAINED EFFORTS ALLEVIATE SUFFERING IRANIAN BELIEVERS.
MAY 27, 1982
By JACK BOWERS
Bahá’ís were the lead-off witnesses May 25 when the House Subcommittee on Human Rights and International Organizations began its consideration in Washington, D.C., of specific examples of religious persecution as a violation of human rights.
|
A complete transcript of testimony by Bahá’ís and members of Congress before the House Subcommittee on Human Rights and International Organizations concerning the persecution of Bahá’ís in Iran will appear in the Spring 1982 issue of World Order magazine. Individual copies are priced at $3 each. |
Presenting comprehensive testimony on behalf of their beleaguered co-religionists in Iran were three members of the National Spiritual Assembly—Judge James F. Nelson, chairman; Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh, vice-chairman; and Glenford E. Mitchell, secretary.
JUDGE Nelson addressed his remarks to the recent wave of persecutions against the Bahá’í community in Iran; Dr. Kazemzadeh discussed the history of the Faith and the genesis of those persecutions; and Mr. Mitchell outlined the response of the American Bahá’í community to the ordeal of its brethren in the Cradle of the Faith.
Further sobering insight into the repression and violence directed toward Iran’s Bahá’í community, the largest religious minority in that country, was offered in moving testimony by Mrs. Ramin Mahmoudi Nourani, an Iranian Bahá’í who is now living in Pennsylvania.
Mrs. Nourani’s mother, Gínís Mahmoudi, who was chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly of Iran, was one of eight members of that body who were abducted during a meeting last December 13 and executed two weeks later.
Her father, Houshang Mahmoudi, was a member of the previous National Spiritual Assembly
Above: Mrs. Ramna Nourani testifies about the martyrdom of her father and mother in Iran during the hearing May 25 in Washington, D.C., before the House Subcommittee on Human Rights and International Organizations. Below: Glenford E. Mitchell, secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly, points to epithets scrawled on the bodies of Bahá’í martyrs in Iran.
| What’s inside
THE FIFTH training session for National Treasurer’s Representatives (NTRs) is held in Wilmette. Page 5 A COMPLETE listing of U.S. homefront pioneering goals for the coming year. Page 6 OVERSEAS pioneer goals also are listed. Page 8 MORE on the historic congressional hearings in Washington, D.C. Pages 10-11 THE FOURTH annual Corinne True Awards are presented at the House of Worship. Page 17 |
Mr. Chance, 3 Hands of Cause meet with Counsellors, ABMs
The Continental Board of Counsellors for the Americas sponsored a special meeting May 28-31 in the Chicago suburb of Lincolnwood for Auxiliary Board members serving in North America.
Participating were Counsellors Farzam Arbab, Angus Cowan, Lloyd Gardner, Lauretta King, Sarah M. Pereira, Fred Schechter and Velma W. Sherrill.
SPECIAL GUESTS at the conference included Hugh Chance, a member of the Universal House of Justice; the Hands of the Cause of God Zikrullah Khadem, John Robarts and William Sears; two members of the U.S. National Spiritual Assembly; one member of the National Spiritual Assembly of Canada; and Roy Massey, a visiting member of the Auxiliary Board from St. Martin, Leeward Islands.
Thirty of the 31 Auxiliary Board members assigned to the U.S. were able to attend the gathering.
The objective of this and similar
[Page 2]
VIEWPOINT
Editorial
Faith in God must lead to action[edit]
Do you remember the moment that you became a Bahá’í? That point at which you realized for the first time that Bahá’u’lláh spoke with the authority of God?
Perhaps at that time your understanding of that realization was less than profound. Maybe it was arrived at logically, or resulted from the love you felt from someone who already possessed that belief.
BUT MORE importantly, what have been the fruits of that declaration of belief? What impact has that first stunning moment of truth had upon your life?
To affirm that a Man known to His contemporaries as Mírzá Husayn-‘Alí, a Man who walked this earth seemingly like other men, was in fact Bahá’u’lláh, the Glory of God, Whose words were really those of the Divine Creator, is an immense statement. Its implications can never be fully understood even in a hundred lifetimes.
But let us try to explore its meaning on a smaller level. We know that God is the All-Knowing, the All-Powerful, the All-Wise. We also know that He loves us and desires for us only good. We will never be able even to begin to fathom God, but we do know that all of creation is under His loving care and control.
With even that limited understanding, if you were to receive a clear, direct message from God, wouldn’t you use your whole being to try to follow and to carry out that message?
Obviously, God does not speak to men in quite that way, but He does allow mankind to know His Will through His Messengers. By accepting Bahá’u’lláh as one of God’s Holy Messengers, we thereby accept Bahá’u’lláh’s words as a clear expression of God’s Will for mankind in this Day. His words leave us with no doubt as to what we must do to please our Creator.
TO CARRY this further, certainly if we knew of God’s plan for world peace and the long-promised Golden Age, wouldn’t we want unhesitatingly and wholeheartedly to carry it out?
By accepting Bahá’u’lláh we have affirmed that we do know God’s plan for a better world. We also know clearly what we must do to discharge it. We know as well that the instructions left for us by Bahá’u’lláh are the only real hope for a rapidly deteriorating planet.
How then can we as believers be true to God unless we as individuals wholeheartedly consecrate ourselves to the very core of our beings to carry out in our daily lives those teachings that Bahá’u’lláh has enjoined upon us?
When we awaken in the morning, do we first turn to God in prayer and to the Sacred Texts to learn how to proceed through the day? Are the teachings of the Faith uppermost in our mind as we carry out our daily tasks at the office, at home, at school? Do we use Bahá’u’lláh’s words to guide us in our relationships with our friends and family?
Can we say that we cannot act because we do not know what God would have us do? Through Bahá’u’lláh, His Will has been made manifest as the sun at noon.
We must therefore commit ourselves wholly to the discharge of our sacred duties as believers, fully confident that the path we travel is the correct one, and sustained by the promise that our efforts on that path will be assisted by the Legions of the Lord of Hosts.
Friends are invited to come to Ecuador to help teach before, after Conference[edit]
Those who plan to attend the Bahá’í International Teaching Conference in Quito, Ecuador, August 6-8 are invited to come a month earlier and/or stay a month later to help teach and consolidate in that country.
After an initial orientation, teams will visit highly receptive areas including the coast and Quechua-speaking Andes, accompanied by Ecuadorians and pioneers.
A command of Spanish is not mandatory but would be helpful.
Both warm and light clothes are a must. The project will take place from the first weekend in July to the end of August.
Each participant is expected to pay for his food, transportation and lodging (estimated at $200 a month).
If you are interested, please contact El Comité Nacional de Enseñanza, Apartado 2507, Quito, Ecuador.
Counsellor named[edit]
The Universal House of Justice has appointed Dr. Ṣábir Áfáqí to the Continental Board of Counsellors in Asia. He replaces Dr. Masíḥ Farhangí, who was martyred last year.
Ken LaRoche (left) and Randy Armstrong, Bahá’ís from New Hampshire who together comprise the musical group Do’a, are shown during a March 31 concert appearance at Middle Tennessee State University. The performance was part of a tour of the southern U.S. during which Do’a received widespread media coverage including radio and television interviews and a favorable review in The Washington Post. Formed eight years ago, Do’a performs original compositions on flute, guitar and more than two dozen instruments from India, Africa, Asia and South America. The group has recorded three albums and recently completed New York City engagements at Carnegie Recital Hall and the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts.
Comment
Divine law helps guide mankind to ‘ocean of true understanding’[edit]
There is still a question of why it is that some Bahá’ís seem to be treated differently than others.
One may seem to “get by with anything” while another, for the same infraction, loses his rights of Bahá’í membership.
SUPERFICIALLY it doesn’t seem fair. It seems as if there is a double standard.
In thinking of “law” in terms of human law, that would be true. There would be an inconsistency.
Divine law is different, however, and cannot be judged by the same standard.
When you look at the purpose of Divine law, “...to endue all men with righteousness and understanding, so that peace and tranquillity may be firmly established ...” (Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 206), in other words, the re-creation of human souls, it becomes apparent that different individuals in different situations must be treated differently.
Disobedience can be caused by human weakness, ignorance of the law, being unaware of the significance of the law, indifference, or defiance.
In the application of Bahá’í law the reason for disobedience is important. These represent different degrees of spiritual maturity, a malnourished soul or a spiritually unhealthy condition.
The intention is to create a situation in which maturity or a healing will take place. That requires application of the law suited to each circumstance.
IN THE Tablet in which Bahá’u’lláh mentions the “ocean” He says: “One must guide mankind to the ocean of true understanding in a spirit of love and tolerance.” (Synopsis and Codification of the Laws and Ordinances of the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, p. 4)
For personal matters, such as failure to say obligatory prayers, failure to fast, being impatient, or not contributing to the Fund, the individual must offer his own “guidance” to make sure the condition is corrected. In laws of social concern, institutions aid the healing while protecting the Bahá’í community.
ADMINISTRATIVE SANCTIONS[edit]
| This is the second of two articles on ‘Divine Law and Man-Made Law’ by John Kolstoe, chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly of Alaska. The articles appeared originally in the Alaska Bahá’í News in December 1981 and January 1982. |
Disobedience of Bahá’í law is a wound to the soul. The proper attitude of assisting a wounded soul is clear.
In a letter dated June 30, 1957, the Guardian’s secretary wrote on his behalf: “...be like a loving parent, watching over and helping its children, and not like a stern judge, waiting for an opportunity to display his judicial powers ... Individual cases should be dealt with as they arise.
“The friends should be helped to overcome their problems, deepen in the Faith, and increase their unity and their love for each other.” (High Endeavours: Messages to Alaska, p. 35)
How does this work in specific cases? If a believer disobeys a Bahá’í law it must be determined whether he knew of the law and its consequences. If not, education is necessary and steps must be taken to correct the situation.
IF SOMEONE deliberately and defiantly violates a law, such as the marriage law, knowing the law and its implications, there is usually little choice but to remove the rights of membership quickly. Details vary from one situation to another.
Violations of laws concerning alcohol, drugs or morality (deep and lingering wounds to the soul) must be dealt with firmly and directly yet with patience and love.
However, it makes a great deal of difference whether or not the believer has deepened in his love for Bahá’u’lláh. First is to deepen in His love, then one can be nurtured to live according to Divine law.
Removal of the rights of membership is usually the last resort when other efforts to bring about education and healing have failed. This comes after repeated warnings have had no effect.
When the rights of membership
Montreal credentials to be mailed Aug. 1[edit]
At the request of the Montreal International Conference Committee, conference credential cards will be mailed to registrants on or about August 1, 1982. We regret our inability to acknowledge the more than 2,000 credential applications as they came in.
If you have applied for credentials and have not received them by August 16, please call 312-869-9039, extension 219, and we will provide a necessary facsimile.
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LETTERS
Friends should strive for excellence in arts[edit]
| The American Bahá’í welcomes letters to the editor on any subject of general interest. Letters should be as brief as possible, and are subject to editing for length and style. Please address letters to The Editor, The American Bahá’í, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. |
To the Editor:
I was delighted to see the compilation “Excellence in All Things” by the Research Department of the House of Justice in the Bahá’í National Review (April 1982).
It seems that with such a comprehensive collection of the Writings on this subject, we are called upon to achieve a greater understanding of what is expected of us as Bahá’ís. In this regard, I would like to share a few thoughts, particularly in relation to artistic achievement.
OVER and over we are called upon to “become skilled in every art” (p. 4), to be “active and progressive in the field of inventions and the arts” (p. 2), and to “strain every nerve to acquire both inner and outer perfections” (p. 1).
We also are told that we are a “new kind of people,” with both a tremendous responsibility and a high destiny, and that our influence on others will help spread the Cause.
One way of responding to the crisis in Iran is to take this guidance ever more keenly to heart and act on it. We must yearn to attain spiritual distinction because that is what the Master desired for us.
Often we find it hard to apply this to our work, our studies, our family life. Yet this compilation makes it clear that we should surpass others in all areas and “appreciate the value of everything” (Shoghi Effendi, p. 5).
Certainly in attaining an art, craft, or profession, diligent study is needed, balanced with spiritual sustenance. Likewise, in appreciating the efforts of others, a standard of excellence is needed.
How often Bahá’í audiences are restless, unappreciative, and even rude to performers or speakers whose work they may not understand or agree with.
BAHÁ’U’LLÁH says on this point:
“The people of Bahá must not refuse to discharge the due reward of any one, and must respect possessors of talent; and they must not stain their tongues with slander like unto the former community. In this day the sun of arts and crafts is manifest from the horizon of the heaven of the Occident, and the river of skill is flowing from the sea of that part. One must speak with justice and recognize the worth of benefits.” (Bahá’í World Faith, p. 170)
To recognize the worth of benefits, I believe we need constantly to remember that this is a time of reformation in which new art forms are being brought from the plane of the invisible to that of the visible, and respect those who are seeking to do so.
“Sciences and arts are being moulded anew. Thoughts are metamorphosed.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í World Faith, p. 228)
We should strive to encourage those with artistic gifts to pursue training to better praise God. Shoghi Effendi stated that:
“Although now is only the very beginning of Bahá’í art, yet the friends who are gifted in such matters should endeavor to develop and cultivate their gifts and through works to reflect, however inadequately, the Divine Spirit which Bahá’u’lláh has breathed into the world.” (“The Dynamic Force of Example,” p. 172)
IN A LETTER on his behalf to Mrs. Nina Matthison (November 12, 1931), he also states that “as the Cause grows and talented persons come under its banner, they will begin to produce in art the divine spirit that animates their soul. Every religion has brought with it some form of art ...The Temple with all its beauty is only the first ray of an early dawn; even more wondrous things are to be achieved in the future.”
In a similar vein, the Guardian wrote to Mrs. Clara Weir: “We have to wait only a few years to see how the spirit breathed by Bahá’u’lláh will find expression in the work of the artists. What you and some other Bahá’ís are attempting, are only faint rays that precede the effulgent light of a glorious morn. We cannot yet estimate the part the Cause is destined to play in the life of society. The material this spirit has to mold is too crude and unworthy, but it will at last give way and the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh will reveal itself in its full splendor.” (Published in U.S. Bahá’í News, No. 73, May 1933).
The arts are an excellent mode of teaching. Loulie Mathews, quoting ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in “The Magazine of the Children of the Kingdom” (June 1923, p. 69), says, “The stage will be the pulpit of the future.”
In another place, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá says, “Art is worship. The drama is of the utmost importance. It has been a great educational power in the past; it will be so again.” (“Star of the West,” XIX, p. 341)
And some of us may be aware of Shoghi Effendi’s appeal to the American believers to utilize the Dawn-breakers as a source of inspiration in all literary and artistic pursuits. Yet do we act on these messages?
An interesting recent development is the establishment of the Association for Bahá’í Studies, which has as one of its goals the cultivation of presentations of excellence, both artistic and scholarly.
In Geoffry Nash’s foreword to the 1980 volume of poetry that the Association published (entitled “Response to the Revelation”), this plea is made:
“To the communities of Bahá’ís we say: be kind to all with artistic gifts—to those who invariably are introverted and ineloquent in all but their art. To the lonely Bahá’í poet of 1980, writing in inhospitable circumstances among aliens or not always enlightened friends, we say: persevere in what you have been given, in what you have to do; not hide your light under a bushel.”
NOW is the time for action, and it is action that will cause human progress in the world. The Manifestations are, of course, our greatest Examples.
‘Abdu’l-Bahá, in speaking to an artist from New York who had come with a party of visitors to the Holy Land, made an interesting comparison of artistic effort with other deeds:
“... You must go on with your art and improve in it; and through this very Cause you will be able to make great progress in your art, for you will be helped from above ...Can you paint upon the page of the world with ideal pictures of the Celestial Concourse? The pictures which are in the ideal world are eternal. I wish you to become such an artist. Man can paint those ideal pictures upon the tablet of existence with the brush of deeds.
“The holy, divine Manifestations are all heavenly artists. Upon the canvas of creation, with the brush of their deeds and lives they paint immortal pictures which cannot be found in any art museum of Europe or America. But you can find the masterpieces of these spiritual artists in the hearts.” (“Star of the West,” Vol. 5, No. 10, April 9, 1917, p. 149)
Taking this as our example, perhaps we can strive with increasing awareness of excellence to create both kinds of masterpieces, and thereby attract the hearts of humankind.
Dover, New Hampshire
To the Editor:
Now that the world is preoccupied with the anxieties of nuclear war, one of the most effective means for teaching the Faith is to use that issue to stress the need for world government.
Today’s newspapers are loaded with articles and letters about the topic. All are deeply concerned, but no real solutions are being offered.
By writing a letter to the editor of the local paper, for example, one can suggest that the only alternative to nationalism and its current by-product of nuclear arsenals is to seek and develop pathways toward the establishment of a world federation for the sake of world peace.
Many Americans are looking for any realistic solutions, even Bahá’í solutions, if they are presented in a reasonable and moderate fashion, stressing mainly the outline for world order and the attitude that goes with it.
The nuclear threat is actually a powerful teaching tool in disguise, if it is used constructively and wisely.
As Bahá’u’lláh said: “Outwardly it is fire and vengeance but inwardly it is light and mercy.”
Where people are filled with despair, Bahá’ís can offer a realistic sense of hope and vision.
Durango, Colorado
To the Editor:
I would like to respond to the letter from Lawrence Nylin (September 1981) about the poor response of the Bahá’ís to a Race Unity Day program in Washington, D.C.
The problem may be one of publicity and promotion. I was at a large meeting of Bahá’ís when the publicity chairman asked for donations for advertising.
THE REQUEST was greeted by
Missouri Institute to be held September 10-12 in Potosi[edit]
Plan now to attend the annual Missouri Institute, sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Rock Hill, September 10-12 at Trout Lodge, Potosi, Missouri.
Topics to be discussed include teaching, family life, Bahá’í administration, the “most challenging issue,” the power of Divine assistance, and spiritual growth as they relate to the over-all theme of the Institute: “Strength Through Service—Reflecting the Light.”
A fully organized program for children up to age 14 is planned, and there will be one session especially for youth.
The beautiful site, tucked away in the foothills of the Ozarks, is within comfortable traveling distance from Arkansas, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Tennessee.
In addition to pleasant sleeping accommodations, Trout Lodge offers spacious, attractive meeting rooms, good recreational facilities and quiet woodsy retreats where one can relax and meditate or simply reflect on the glory of God’s creation.
Tuition, which includes two nights’ lodging and five meals, is $33 for adults, $47 for students (15-21), $34 for children ages 3-14, and $8 for infants.
To pre-register, write to Robert Yoder, registrar, Missouri Institute Committee, Rock Hill, MO 63119.
Gayle Morrison’s honest, loving, and provocative biography of Louis G. Gregory, holds the answer—and much more!
Available only in cloth. $16.00* Catalog No. 332-072
Order through your local librarian, or send $16.00 (plus 10% for postage and handling) to Bahá’í Publishing Trust
[Page 4]
David Rouleau, a member of the National Education Committee staff, speaks to Counsellors and Auxiliary Board members about the committee’s Assembly Development Program. Seated next to Mr. Rouleau is Rose Lopez, secretary of the National Teaching Committee.
Meeting[edit]
Continued From Page 1
conferences that are held about once each year, said Counsellor Sherrill, is to consult about the goals of the current Plan and to examine what is being done during that year to win the goals.
The format of this year’s meeting, she said, included a review of the goals of the Seven Year Plan, their present status, and what needs to be done to win the remaining goals.
Mr. Chance addressed his remarks to the current condition of the Faith worldwide including the persecution of the Bahá’ís in Iran.
He spoke of the responsibilities of the institution of the Boards of Counsellors and other institutions of the Faith in relation to the goals of the Plan, and offered words of encouragement to the Counsellors and Auxiliary Board members in North America.
MR. CHANCE also spoke at a separate three-hour meeting with the Counsellors, during which the work of the Counsellors in North America was discussed in depth.
On Saturday, May 29, the Counsellors invited members of the U.S. National Spiritual Assembly to attend the conference and to bring with them representatives of their National Teaching Committee and National Education Committee.
Glenford E. Mitchell, secretary, and Magdalene M. Carney, assistant secretary of the National Assembly, were present at that session with Rose Lopez, secretary of the National Teaching Committee; David Smith, secretary of the National Education Committee; Dr. Geoffry Marks, co-director of the Louhelen Bahá’í School in Michigan, and David Rouleau, a member of the National Education Committee staff at the Bahá’í National Center.
Mr. Mitchell discussed the recent congressional hearing in Washington, D.C., on the persecution of Bahá’ís in Iran.
Dr. Marks made a brief presentation of Louhelen School plans, while Mr. Rouleau described the “mini-courses” that have been devised as a part of the Assembly Development Program.
Mrs. Lopez reported on the 99 new and restored Assemblies formed at Riḍván along with the 133 Assemblies that did not reform as well as the 200 homefront pioneering posts that need to be filled in the next two years, most of which are aimed at the restoration of lost Assemblies.
After the conference, Mrs. Sherrill described the session with members of the National Assembly and representatives of two of its committees as “very productive.”
This year, she added, “we have asked the Auxiliary Board members to take an even more active role in meeting with Local Spiritual Assemblies to see if they have adopted an extension teaching goal, and if not, to encourage them to do so.”
The Counsellors met alone for three days following the special conference for Auxiliary Board members.
Association seeks papers for Louhelen regional meeting[edit]
The Midwestern Regional Conference Committee of the Association for Bahá’í Studies welcomes the submission of abstracts of papers for review for possible inclusion in the program for the first Midwestern regional conference of the Association to be held November 12-14 at the Louhelen Bahá’í School.
The abstracts, which should be about 250 words long, may be sent to Brydon J.B. Grant, M.D., 3735 Charter Place, Ann Arbor, MI 48105. Papers are to be on a subject related to some aspect of the Bahá’í Faith.
The deadline for submission of abstracts is August 15.
Ottawa gathering sees creation of first Bahá’í health agency[edit]
A policy conference April 10-11 in Ottawa, Canada, marked the establishment of the first Bahá’í International Health Agency.
More than 50 Bahá’ís who are health professionals in Canada, the United States and Chile attended the gathering, which was sponsored by the Association for Bahá’í Studies.
Also present was the Hand of the Cause of God John Robarts.
Participants included medical doctors, medical students, nurses, counselors, therapists, psychologists and social workers.
The creation of the health agency was recommended at the first Bahá’í International Conference on Health and Healing, held June 1-3, 1980, in Ottawa. That meeting also was sponsored by the Association for Bahá’í Studies.
‘Citizen’ honor given to Milpitas Assembly[edit]
The Spiritual Assembly of Milpitas, California, was nominated this year by that city’s Chamber of Commerce for its “Citizen of the Year” award, the first time in the history of the award that any religious organization has received that honor.
When the editor of the local newspaper, the Milpitas Post, learned of the nomination, he contacted the Bahá’í community, and the result was a comprehensive article in the paper about the Faith and the 24-member Milpitas community.
Comment[edit]
Continued From Page 2
are removed it is a punishment for disobedience. It is also a deterrent to others. At times it serves as a protection for the community.
For some, the loss of these rights has proven to be a key factor and turning point leading the believer back to obedience and a more healthy spiritual condition.
Normally, when the rights are removed, the individual is informed of the steps necessary to correct the condition.
THE ATTITUDE of the other believers should be one of continued friendliness and loving concern.
However, the individual himself must take the initiative for reinstatement. Others should not “take up his case” in his behalf.
Normally, rights of membership are eagerly restored when two conditions are present. One is genuine remorse for having broken the law of Bahá’u’lláh (which is different from being sorry for having lost one’s rights of membership). The second is correcting or removing the condition that caused the loss of the rights of membership in the first place.
What is “removed” by the loss of rights of membership? First of all, the individual is still a Bahá’í; that is, one who believes in Bahá’u’lláh and is still responsible for upholding Bahá’í laws and standards. That remains a spiritual obligation.
However, the “rights” and privileges of membership in the Bahá’í community are no longer enjoyed. These include the privileges of going on pilgrimage, receiving publications that are for “Bahá’ís only,” giving to the Fund, serving on Spiritual Assemblies or committees, attending the Nineteen Day Feasts, voting in Bahá’í elections (hence the misused term “removal of voting rights”), participating in teaching activities, being married in the Faith, officially representing the Faith for any reason, or participating in any of the other functions or activities that are for enrolled members only.
It is not a loss to be taken lightly. This condition can truly be described as that of a “fish out of water.”
THE OBJECTIVE in all cases of disobedience is not merely to punish or exercise authority. It is to help achieve a healing and enable the soul to regain its natural habitat—the ocean of the laws of God.
The institutions of the Faith use whatever means are appropriate to help believers to live according to the Divine law and experience the “paradise” of obedience.
Over and over, Bahá’u’lláh assures us of the importance of His laws and the beneficial effect they have in our lives—when we understand their purpose and live according to them in spirit and in confidence.
“Were men to discover the motivating purpose of God’s Revelation, they would assuredly cast away their fears, and, with hearts filled with gratitude, rejoice with exceeding gladness.” (Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 175)
In His Most Holy Book, His Book of Laws, Bahá’u’lláh, the Supreme Law-Giver, makes this pronouncement:
“By My life, if you knew what We have desired for you in revealing Our holy laws, you would offer up your souls for this sacred, mighty and lofty Cause.” (Synopsis and Codification of the Laws and Ordinances of the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, p. 7)
Jeremy Reiskind, a Bahá’í from Grand Forks, North Dakota, addresses a group of students and faculty at a world peace conference April 14-18 sponsored by the University of North Dakota.
Bahá’ís in Grand Forks participate in university’s world peace conference[edit]
From April 14-18, the Bahá’ís of Grand Forks, North Dakota, were able to make known the Faith’s views on world peace to many interested and sympathetic people who were attending a conference on world peace sponsored by the University of North Dakota.
Hundreds of students, faculty members and townspeople gathered at the five-day event that featured a number of prominent speakers including representatives of the Faith.
Bahá’í speakers included Jeremy Reiskind, a Ph.D candidate in geology; Dr. James Knudsen, a family therapist and assistant to the Auxiliary Board; and Karen Jentz, a mother and supervisor of a day care center.
Reactions and questions from the audience indicated considerable interest in the Bahá’í solution to the problems that are dividing mankind, and in the Message of Bahá’u’lláh.
Louhelen opening set[edit]
The National Spiritual Assembly has announced that the dates for the inauguration of the new Louhelen Bahá’í School in Michigan will be October 29-31.
The National Assembly will meet at the Louhelen School that weekend, as will the National Education and Teaching Committees, and the friends are warmly invited to attend the inauguration activities.
Information about the program and registration will be announced in forthcoming issues of The American Bahá’í.
[Page 5]
THE FUNDS
Treasurer’s Office holds fifth training session for NTRs[edit]
Three members of the National Spiritual Assembly participated in the fifth training session for National Treasurer’s Representatives (NTRs) held in Wilmette, Illinois, during the Memorial Day weekend, May 28-31.
Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh, vice-chairman of the National Assembly; Glenford E. Mitchell, secretary; and Dr. Magdalene M. Carney, assistant secretary, spoke on consecutive days during the institute.
THEIR focus was on the congressional hearings in Washington, D.C., which were held May 25, and the implications of these sessions for the progress of the Faith and the role of NTRs in particular.
Other speakers were Dr. Geoffry Marks, director of the educational program at the Louhelen Bahá’í School in Michigan, who spoke on the school’s progress and plans for the future; and David Rouleau, a member of the National Education Committee staff at the National Center, who shared an outline of the implementation of the Assembly Development Program “mini-courses.”
More than 40 NTRs attended the conference, which was specifically aimed at giving instruction to newly appointed NTRs.
Classes focused on the deepening courses prepared for the community by the Treasurer’s Office and on bookkeeping and auditing procedures for local Bahá’í treasurers.
Also discussed were the present status of the National Fund and the effort to reach 20,000 regular contributors to the Fund each Bahá’í month.
Three new items were presented to the NTRs, including a workshop, The Local Spiritual Assembly and the Bahá’í Fund; the latest deepening course, The Individual Believer and the Rhythm of Growth; and a special filmstrip about the Greatest Holy Leaf, In Loving Memory.
The new materials, along with any of the other offerings of the NTR program, are now available from your nearest NTR.
The filmstrip honoring the Greatest Holy Leaf would be especially appropriate for the commemoration in July of the 50th anniversary of her passing. Call your NTR today for more information!
Workshops played a large part in the fifth training session for National Treasurer’s Representatives (NTRs) conducted May 28-31 in Wilmette by the Office of the Treasurer.
New Treasurer’s course focuses on individual, ‘rhythm of growth’[edit]
A hallmark of the National Treasurer’s Representative (NTR) Program over the past few years has been a series of deepening courses produced by the Office of the Treasurer.
While one course is specifically aimed at improving the bookkeeping skills of local Bahá’í treasurers, the others focus on a number of topics of interest to all believers.
THESE offerings include The Surest Way, a course on materialism in America and the Institution of the Bahá’í Fund; The Secret of Wealth, which focuses on the Bahá’í teachings on work and lifestyle and includes a budget exercise for handling family finances; and The Mystery of Sacrifice, an in-depth study of the principle of sacrifice.
These courses provide useful information to the American Bahá’í community in an enjoyable yet challenging format. The material presented often has lasting value.
Recently, a letter was received in the Treasurer’s Office that commented on one course:
“Several years ago I attended a class on The Secret of Wealth. I had to let you know that I am still using my workbook from that class.
“I reassess my family finances about once a year, using the worksheet format given. We are now looking at a reduction in salary, and I again turned to my workbook for help ...I just wanted you all to know how valuable I have found this deepening and workbook ...”
This year a new course, The Individual Believer and the Rhythm of Growth, is available from the NTRs.
THE COURSE explores the National Spiritual Assembly’s program, “The Rhythm of Growth.” Going deeper than the simple outward pattern of community growth, it examines the role of the individual as the primary means by which the Faith spreads.
Special attention is given to the fundamental aspects of community development outlined in the Writings of the Faith, such as universal
139 B.E.
National Bahá’í
Fund
Individual Participation
4321
Contributions
$254,000
the Summer Slump
in contributions!
challenge
for growth
$8,000,000
minimum needs
$6,480,000
received
$484,168
“Uni-pac” makes Fund chart debut. In order to bring attention to two levels of contributions highlighted this year on the Fund Chart, the Treasurer’s Office has introduced a new character, Uni-pac. At the bottom of the chart is a graphic focusing on the year-to-date status of the Fund. Uni-pac will gobble up the dots (each representing $421,000) as money is received during the year, moving us closer to the minimum needs level of $6.48 million, and the challenge for growth level of $8.0 million.
[Page 6]
TEACHING
Homefront pioneer goals introduced[edit]
The National Teaching Committee is pleased to introduce to the American Bahá’í community the new homefront pioneering goals.
These goals, as reported in the June issue of The American Bahá’í, are to be filled by the end of the second phase of the Seven Year Plan at Riḍván 1984.
In reviewing the goals, please note that the number in parentheses next to the locality in question refers to the number of homefront pioneers needed in that locality, and not to the number of believers in the community.
Recognizing that the Bahá’í community is a mobile one and that communities change faster than the information can reach the National Teaching Office, any information from the friends regarding the present status of these localities will be greatly appreciated.
In future issues of The American Bahá’í, these goal localities will be spotlighted, and information will be given about climate, job and housing availability, and the cost of living.
But you needn’t wait until then to contact the Teaching Office! If you see a goal that interests you, simply write to the National Teaching Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.
Pioneering stressed[edit]
The National Teaching Committee is placing special emphasis this year on homefront pioneering.
Along with the special goals introduced in this issue of The American Bahá’í, the committee announces a new addition to the Teaching Page, a column to be entitled “The Homefront Pioneer.”
The “Pioneer” will feature news sent to the National Teaching Office by homefront pioneers to share the victories and viewpoints of these courageous believers with everyone.
The column also will serve as a forum through which homefront pioneers may lend support to one another.
Homefront pioneers are urged to write to the National Teaching Committee and share their stories, reflections, and encouragement.
Please send correspondence to the National Teaching Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.
Attention isolated believers!
In case you didn’t read the article about “The Homefront Pioneer” on this page because you thought it had nothing to do with you, you’ll be pleased to know that, as the only Bahá’í in your locality, you are a homefront pioneer too!
The National Teaching Committee looks forward to receiving your contributions to the “Pioneer.”
| STATE | ASSEMBLIES TO BE RESTORED | POTENTIAL ASSEMBLIES | POTENTIAL ORGANIZED GROUPS | UNOPENED LOCALITIES |
| Alabama | Pritchard (2) | Auburn (1) | *Gadsden (1) | |
| Pioneers needed: 9 | Homewood (1) | Mountain Brook (2) | ||
| Prattville (2) | ||||
| Connecticut | *East Hartford (2) | *Waterbury (1) | +*Bridgeport (1) | *East Haven (1) |
| Pioneers needed: 23 | Windham (2) *Milford (2) | *Fairfield (1) | ||
| Ellington (2) *Hamden (2) | Groton (1) | |||
| Mansfield (1) | North Haven (4) | |||
| New Canaan (2) | ||||
| Delaware | Newark (2) | *Dover (1) | ||
| Pioneers needed: 4 | ||||
| Iowa | Warren County (2) | Waverly (1) | *Mason City (1) | *Ottumwa (1) |
| Pioneers needed: 6 | West Liberty (1) | |||
| Kansas | *Salina (1) | Independence (1) | ||
| Pioneers needed: 5 | Dodge City (3) | |||
| Kentucky | *Ashland (1) | *Paducah (1) | ||
| Pioneers needed: 5 | ||||
| Louisiana | *Bossier City (3) | *Kenner (1) La Place (1) | +*Alexandria (1) | |
| Pioneers needed: 14 | Slidell (1) | *Metairie (1) Port Sulfur (1) | ||
| Gretna (1) | Thibodaux (2) | |||
| Bogalusa (1) | Covington (1) | |||
| Michigan | Alpena (2) | Canton Twp. (1) | ||
| Pioneers needed: 14 | *Saginaw Twp. (3) | |||
| *Superior Twp. (3) | ||||
| Wyandotte (1) | ||||
| *Pontiac (1) | ||||
| Southfield (1) | ||||
| Niles (1) | ||||
| Benton Twp. (1) | ||||
| Mississippi | *Biloxi (1) | *Hattiesburg (1) | ||
| Pioneers needed: 9 | Clarksdale (1) | |||
| Hinds County (1) | ||||
| Canton (1) | ||||
| Prentiss (4) | ||||
| Missouri | Clayton (3) | Queeny Twp. (2) | *Cape Girardeau (1) | |
| Pioneers needed: 14 | *Independence (1) | Rogersville (1) | ||
| Warrensburg (1) | ||||
| *Kirkwood (2) | ||||
| Marshall (1) | ||||
| Boone County (1) | ||||
| New Jersey | *Trenton (3) | *Camden (1) *Bloomfield (1) | +*Cherry Hill (1) | *Perth Amboy (1) |
| Pioneers needed: 9 | *Hackensack (1) | *New Brunswick (1) | ||
| Fishkill Town (1) | *Rome (1) | |||
| Pioneers needed: 17 | Great Neck Plaza (1) | *Utica (1) | ||
| Oyster Bay Town (3) | ||||
| Hamburg Town (1) | ||||
| Brighton (1) | ||||
| Plattsburgh City (1) | ||||
| Poughkeepsie Town (3) | ||||
| Rockville Centre (1) | ||||
| Scarsdale (1) | ||||
| Farmington Town (2) | ||||
| Jamestown (1) | ||||
| North Dakota | *Minot (2) | New Town (1) | ||
| Pioneers needed: 5 | Mandaree (1) | |||
| *Bismarck (1) | ||||
| Ohio | Weller Twp. (2) | Oberlin (1) | *Marion (1) | *Sandusky (1) |
| Pioneers needed: 13 | *East Cleveland (4) | *Warren (1) | *Lancaster (1) | |
| *Euclid (1) | ||||
| Urbana (1) | ||||
| Pennsylvania | *Wilkinsburg (3) | Cheltenham Twp. (1) *York (2) | *Reading (1) | *Johnstown (1) |
| Pioneers needed: 17 | *Bethlehem (2) | *Williamsport City (1) | *Wilkes-Barre (1) | *McKeesport (1) |
| Eaton Twp. (2) | *Pottstown Bor. (2) | |||
| Rhode Island | *Cranston (1) | *Woonsocket (1) | ||
| Pioneers needed: 3 | *Pawtucket (1) | |||
| Tennessee | Wilson County (1) Longtown (2) | Allens (1) | *Johnson City (1) | |
| Pioneers needed: 8 | Greater Arlington (1) | *Clarksville (1) *Oak Ridge (1) | ||
| Utah | San Juan County (2) | |||
| Pioneers needed: 5 | Bountiful (2) *Provo (1) | |||
| West Virginia | Bluefield (1) *Wheeling (4) | Logan (3) Montgomery (1) | ||
| Pioneers needed: 12 | Kanawha County (2) | Wetzel County (1) | ||
| Wyoming | *Cheyenne (1) | New Castle (2) | ||
| Pioneers needed: 7 | Rock Springs (4) | |||
| PIONEERS NEEDED TOTAL | ||||
| 200 | ||||
KEY
- ( ) Number of pioneers needed to raise Group to Assembly status, form organized Group, or open locality.
- + Previous Spiritual Assembly.
- * Metropolitan area of 25,000-plus.
[Page 7]
YOUTH NEWS
Mary Kay Radpour of Chattanooga, Tennessee, the editor of ‘Child’s Way’ magazine, discusses dating and marriage during the Regional Youth Conference held May 28-31 near Clinton, Louisiana.
Near Clinton, Louisiana
125 youth at Southeastern Regional Conference[edit]
Bahá’í youth from all over the Southeastern U.S. attended the Regional Youth Conference held May 28-31 near Clinton, Louisiana, and sponsored by the National Youth Committee.
The approximately 125 youth attending heard Mrs. Soo Fouts, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly, speak on the conference theme, “Be a Bahá’í: It Makes a Difference.”
Mrs. Fouts spoke about being different and the risks that are taken by being different, and about the teaching opportunities that arise through our daily efforts to live the Bahá’í life.
OTHER featured speakers included Smokey Ferguson, a Bahá’í youth from northern Florida, who spoke on “Teaching Our Own Generation,” and Mrs. Mary K. Radpour of Chattanooga, Tennessee, the editor of “Child’s Way” magazine, who discussed dating and marriage.
A panel discussion on “Bahá’í Skills for Growth” was held, and each major topic was followed by small group discussions led by youth facilitators.
Also attending the conference was Diane Smith, a member of the National Teaching Committee.
The participants observed the anniversary of the Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh with a special prayer session and also held a memorial service for Amoz Gibson, a member of the Universal House of Justice, who died May 14.
The recreation program was highlighted by the “Bahá’í Olympics competition,” while a talent show and dance was held Saturday evening.
The Youth Committee plans to sponsor four more Regional Conferences before the end of this year. Details about these events will be published in future issues of The American Bahá’í on the Youth Page.
About 125 Bahá’í youth from the Southeastern U.S. attended a Regional Youth Conference held May 28-31 near Clinton, Louisiana. The conference was sponsored by the National Youth Committee.
‘Youth Hotline’ format to grow, add features[edit]
The National Youth Committee has expanded the format of its “Youth Hotline,” a bulletin sent each month to all registered Bahá’í youth and all Spiritual Assemblies in the U.S.
The “Hotline” serves as a newsletter for youth, informing them of National Youth Committee programs and conferences, and also publicizes other activities and events of interest to Bahá’í youth.
“Because the youth are now doing so much more, there is much more news to relate in the ‘Youth Hotline,’ ” says Walter Heinecke, chairman of the National Youth Committee.
“We decided to expand its format so that more news could be made available to youth. We’d also like to print deepening articles, as well as puzzles and quizzes about the Faith that have been written by youth, and with the larger format, we’ll be able to provide this information to the youth.”
Articles and ideas for the publication should be sent to the National Youth Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.
If you are not presently receiving the “Youth Hotline” and would like to be added to the mailing list, please fill out the coupon below and send it to the National Youth Committee.
The committee is especially eager to send copies to youth under the age of 15 as well as to “ancient youth”—those over 21 years old.
Mr. Sears’ book given big welcome[edit]
Early reports from youth clubs and committees around the country indicate an enthusiastic response to A Cry from the Heart, the new book by the Hand of the Cause of God William Sears.
The National Youth Committee has sent copies of the book to each Bahá’í College Club, Local and High School Club, and to District Youth Committees.
THE CLUBS and committees were asked to read and study the book and to take immediate steps to bring it to the attention of the public.
“The National Youth Committee feels that this book is an excellent tool both for personal use by Bahá’ís in deepening and for teaching,” says Cap Cornwell, secretary of the committee.
“Some of the college clubs have decided to give copies of the book to department heads and faculty who have supported the ‘open letter campaign’ held earlier this spring.”
That campaign was held to request that people write letters to their congressional representatives protesting the persecution of the Bahá’ís in Iran.
“Other clubs,” says Mr. Cornwell, “are planning displays of the book and are donating copies to campus libraries.”
One Local Youth Club has taken significant steps to promote the book in its area.
The youth in the Orlando, Florida, area, in conjunction with the District Teaching Committee, have planned a regional conference for July 23-25 in Orlando. Its theme will be “A Cry from the Heart: Our Book, Our Chance.” The program will focus on the book as a teaching tool with special emphasis on involvement of Bahá’í youth.
The conference will be followed by a proclamation in early August.
WANTED: Youth homefront pioneers! The National Youth Committee would like to hear from youth who are interested in serving as homefront pioneers to a goal area.
Goal areas for youth are defined as those communities that have lost a Local Spiritual Assembly or are presently unopened to the Faith.
In addition, youth homefront pioneers are encouraged to attend colleges and universities where no Bahá’í college club has yet been established.
The National Youth Committee will be happy to help YOUth locate and settle in a goal area. Interested youth should contact the committee for details on goal areas and schools.
Displays on the history of the Faith, its administration, teachings, literature, the Bahá’í House of Worship, and the present wave of persecutions in Iran filled six display cases recently in the lobby of the main library at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois. The exhibit, sponsored by the Bahá’í Club at Northwestern, was seen throughout the month of March. It is estimated that about 108,000 people use the library each month.
New July dates are announced for Asian Teaching Conference[edit]
The dates for the first Asian Teaching Conference for the Western States, previously announced as May 28-31, have been changed to July 24-25.
The conference will be held at the East Los Angeles College auditorium in Monterey Park, California, a 10-minute drive from downtown Los Angeles.
THE first-ever gathering, for which there is no registration fee, will feature traditional Asian dances, songs and music, arts and crafts, ethnic costumes, and live demonstrations of Hmong embroidery, Chinese calligraphy and Japanese origami.
In addition to teaching trips to areas with large Asian populations, there will be workshops and classes on Buddhist teachings and the Bahá’í Faith, Confucian teachings and the Faith, and others to be announced.
Keynote speakers will be Soo Fouts, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly, and Juana Conrad, chairman of the National Teaching Committee.
A large collection of Bahá’í literature and teaching materials in various Asian languages will be on display and for sale.
Intensive one-year Asian teaching projects are to be launched at the conference.
|
Teaching Fever Is CONTAGIOUS! — |
For registration information, write to the Regional Asian Teaching Committee for the Western States, c/o ________ San Marcos, CA 92069, or phone Tekseng Lee, 714-744-9123.
[Page 8]
IGC: PIONEERING
Terry Trotter, pioneer: He keeps moving forward[edit]
Terry Trotter always wanted to be a pioneer. He finally made it to Mexico in 1980, despite having to ask his friends to drive him there in a van that was specially equipped to transport his motorized wheelchair.
He had a rough time of it at first. Although he had a good job as a school teacher, he found the streets narrow, the sidewalks generally terrible, and it was awhile before he could secure a regular attendant to help him with his physical needs. But that didn’t stop him from being an active Bahá’í teacher.
IN 1981 came the good news that Terry was to marry a woman from El Salvador named Gloria, who was not a Bahá’í.
Gloria has three children. Presto! instant family.
Shortly after their marriage Terry and his wife moved to El Salvador where Terry had been offered a good job teaching math in the Escuela Americana.
And wonder of wonders, at the end of July, only a month after they were married, Gloria, her three brothers, her three children, her mother, her aunt, and her aunt’s four children became Bahá’ís!
Terry has written to the International Goals Committee about the bounties of pioneering, and about his involvement in the work of the community.
Another pioneer, Tim Farrand, wrote recently that there are many areas in El Salvador where the pioneers may travel freely and teach publicly, though with prudence, caution and much prayer.
The Salvadoreans, he says, are special. They are doers, good and hard workers, eager to get an education, and are sincere, friendly and outgoing.
NONE of the pioneers, he says, has thought of leaving because of the risky conditions in that country.
The news has circulated among the people that the Bahá’ís did not leave, and even brought in new pioneers, when Christian missionaries were leaving en masse.
In March of this year, Terry wrote:
“The sacrifices for Bahá’u’lláh and His Cause continue. My wife Gloria and I have just given our first-born child back unto God. On Friday evening, March 19, our little Karen Elise Trotter-Girón was born dead in a local hospital in San Salvador.
“But thanks be to God that we are all Bahá’ís. The local and national Bahá’í communities were right beside us to help us through our difficulty. Let me thank them all by recording what they did for us.
“First, late that same night, at about 11 o’clock, Marvin and Jan Dreyer (pioneers) drove me and my family to the hospital in an attempt to see Gloria.
“We couldn’t do so, due to the lateness of the hour and the news that she was resting under sedation. Nevertheless, we were joined by a number of other friends, and we said prayers for the baby’s soul and for Gloria’s recovery.
“THEN, Saturday morning, Marvin Dreyer and Tim Farrand took charge of all the technical matters—all those things I’d never be able to do alone (due to being new here and my wheelchair mobility problem).
“The funeral took place about noon the same day. It was simple, beautiful, and touching. About 35 Bahá’ís attended, and it was a true Bahá’í cooperative effort. I can only hope mine is as nice some day. It was the first Bahá’í grave in the cemetery.
“This isn’t the happy letter I was planning to write, but with Bahá’u’lláh’s help we are making the necessary adjustments.
“We can tell our non-Bahá’í friends about the Faith as we relate the events of those sad days. Bahá’í love one for another is the most beautiful thing there is.”
It is characteristic of Terry that his letter, rather than concentrating on their loss, stressed the services
TERRY TROTTER
Satellite conferences, teaching campaigns set[edit]
Satellite conferences will be held after each of the Bahá’í International Conferences to inspire the friends to go out and teach the Cause of God, as well as to carry the spirit of the larger conferences to the friends at home. The dates and locations of the satellite conferences are as follows:
| DATES | LOCATIONS |
| August 14-15 | Panama City, Panama |
| August 14-15 | Tegucigalpa, Honduras |
| August 14-15 | Belize City, Belize |
| August 14-15 | La Paz, Bolivia |
| August 21 | Santiago, Chile |
| August 22 | Managua, Nicaragua |
| September 21-22 | Bermuda |
| September 25 | Port au Prince, Haiti |
| September 25 | Guadeloupe, French Antilles |
| September 26 | Martinique, French Antilles |
Bénin, West Africa, will be combining its satellite conference with teaching projects. They will be held during July, August and September, which is both before and after the conference August 19-22 in Lagos, Nigeria. The dates and locations are as follows:
| BEFORE | AFTER | LOCATION |
| July 31 | September 11 | Pararou |
| August 7 | September 14 | Abomey |
| August 14 | August 29 | Porto Novo |
Various countries in Europe will be sponsoring summer schools and teaching projects:
| DATES | LOCATIONS | ACTIVITIES |
| August 5-14 | Northern Cyprus | Summer school |
| August 11-16 | Southern Cyprus | Summer school |
| July 10-31 | Tampere, Oulu and Savonlinna, Finland | Summer school and teaching projects. (Satellite conference to be held July 24.) |
| August 8-15 | Waterford, Ireland | Summer school |
| August 21-September 4 | Palidano, Italy | Summer schools (2) |
| August 31-September 5 | Lisbon, Portugal | Summer school; also, National Teaching Conference, October 10-11 |
| August 21-28 | Losenstein, Austria | Summer school |
| August 25-29 | Patras, Greece | Summer school |
The state of Chiapas, Mexico, has initiated a teaching project in its province. It began July 9 and will end during the last week in December in Muna. Anyone who is interested in participating in any of these exciting teaching projects or summer schools should contact the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. Telephone 312-869-9039.
PIONEER GOALS
Riḍván 1982—Riḍván 1983
| AFRICA | |
| (P) | Angola |
| (F) | Burundi |
| (F) | Chad |
| (F) | Congo |
| *(E) | Gambia |
| (P) | Guinea Bissau |
| *(E) | Liberia |
| (F) | Madagascar |
| (F) | Mali |
| *(F) | Mauritania |
| *(A,F,S) | Morocco |
| (P) | Mozambique |
| (F) | Réunion |
| (F) | Rwanda |
| (E) | Sierra Leone |
| (A,E) | Somalia |
| (E) | Tanzania |
| (F) | Tunisia |
| (F) | Zaire |
| EUROPE | |
| (F) | Belgium |
| (Gr,E) | Cyprus |
| *(D) | Denmark |
| (F) | France |
| (E) | Malta |
| (P) | Portugal |
| Azores | |
| Madeira | |
| ASIA | |
| *(J) | Japan |
| *(P,E,C) | Macau |
| *(E) | Nepal |
| (E) | Sikkim |
| (E) | Sri Lanka |
| *(E,T) | Thailand |
| AMERICAS | |
| *(E) | Bahamas |
| (S) | Colombia |
| *(F) | French Guiana |
| (F) | Guadeloupe |
| (F) | Haiti |
| *(E) | Leeward Islands |
| *(F) | Martinique |
| (E) | Trinidad and Tobago |
| (E) | Windward Islands |
| *Dominica | |
| Grenada | |
| St. Vincent | |
| AUSTRALASIA (Pacific Islands) | |
| (E) | Caroline Islands |
| Belau | |
| *Kosrae | |
| Ponape | |
| Yap | |
| (E) | Chatham Island |
| (E) | Cook Island |
| *(E) | Fiji |
| (E) | Kiribati |
| (F) | Loyalty Islands |
| (E) | Marianas |
| Guam | |
| Rota | |
| Saipan | |
| (F) | Marquesas |
| *(E) | Marshall Islands |
| *(F) | New Caledonia |
| (E) | Niue |
| (E) | Papua New Guinea |
| (F) | Society Islands |
| (F) | Tuamoto Archipelago |
| (E) | Tuvalu |
| (F,E) | Vanuatu |
LANGUAGE KEY
- A—Arabic
- C—Chinese
- D—Danish
- E—English
- F—French
- Gr—Greek
- J—Japanese
- P—Portuguese
- S—Spanish
- T—Thai
*GOALS ASSIGNED TO U.S.
GOALS NOT COMPLETED (1981-82)
*Denmark—3
RE-OPENED GOALS
- Austria 2
- Bahamas 1
- Botswana 1
- Denmark 2
- Fr. Antilles 1
- Kosrae 1
- Malawi
[Page 9]
EDUCATION
Louhelen School plans are on drawing board[edit]
As construction of the new Louhelen Bahá’í School proceeds rapidly toward completion, the Louhelen Council is busily preparing first-year and long-range programming.
“Our task,” says Dr. Geoffry Marks, director of academic affairs, “is to develop classes and programs that will enable Louhelen to become, as the Guardian wrote in 1937, ‘one of the leading and most promising cultural centers of the Cause throughout the United States.’
“WE’RE developing extensive programs for youth, for teacher and parent training, for adult deepening and for personal and community development. A major emphasis in all the programs is on an intensive study of the Writings and their applications.
“In the first year of operation, the Council is planning week-long programs for youth, Persian believers, senior citizens, and teachers of children, as well as weekend conferences on race unity and on marriage and family life, for single Bahá’ís, and conferences sponsored by the National Youth Committee, the International Goals Committee, the Office of Public Affairs, and the Association for Bahá’í Studies.
“In addition, the Davison campus will once again, after a lapse of eight years, be the site of this year’s Winter and Summer Schools.
“Much of what we intend to do,” says Dr. Marks, “will be innovative and somewhat experimental. Those programs that are best received by the friends may become a part of our yearly calendar. In all the programs we offer we will strive to achieve standards of excellence.”
Another major goal for the first year, says Dr. William Diehl, director of administrative affairs, “is to achieve self-sufficiency while establishing quality programming.
“WE WANT Louhelen to become independent of the National Fund as soon as possible,” he says. “So we are trying to design programs that will attract as many participants as possible during the first year, and we’re considering other uses of the facility to generate revenue.
“We’re investigating having Local Assembly, community and individual retreats on days when the school is not otherwise being used, offering evening courses for the general community, and opening the facility for use by certain non-Bahá’í groups as ways in which to make maximum use of the school.”
The Louhelen Council also intends to publish newsletters and eventually papers or journals, as well as to reproduce copies of major talks given at the school, for distribution to the friends.
A “Friends of Louhelen” association is being developed to provide a vehicle for individuals to support and promote the school’s activities.
To help make the school independent of the National Fund, the National Spiritual Assembly established in 1981 the Faizí Endowment for Education in memory of the much-loved Hand of the Cause of God Abu’l-Qásim Faizí.
The Endowment will provide funds needed to establish and maintain high quality educational programs and will help finance the scholar-in-residence program, provide scholarships for needy students, build up the library, support the development of new curricula and educational materials, and support other aspects of the school’s operation as needed.
“IT WILL take several years for the Endowment to accrue enough capital so that the earnings on the monies invested will be large enough to be of much help,” says Dr. Diehl. “In the meantime, we will rely on the support of Local Assemblies, Groups and individuals to supplement the revenue we bring in through room, board and tuition.
“We plan to continually develop and expand the operation,” he adds, “and gradually develop to the point that we have year-round sessions as well as some extended study opportunities, perhaps lasting several months, particularly for youth.
“We will be establishing a program for scholars and artists-in-residence, and we already are working to develop the library into one of the foremost Bahá’í libraries and research facilities in the world.
“Most importantly, we plan to continually expand and upgrade the sessions and courses to enable Louhelen to become a true center for Bahá’í learning.”
Both Dr. Diehl and Dr. Marks will be members of the Louhelen Council, and, as co-directors, will work as a team to administer the Louhelen School.
“This is an experimental staffing arrangement,” notes David Smith, secretary of the National Education Committee, “and one that is unlike any other we know of at a Bahá’í school.
“We are excited about the possibilities inherent in such an arrangement, and feel it will add to the creativity and strength with which the school is administered.”
This recent photo shows the progress of construction work on dormitories at the Louhelen Bahá’í School in Michigan. The school’s grand opening ceremony is tentatively scheduled for the end of October 1982.
Price increase[edit]
The editorial committee of Child’s Way magazine announces a price increase starting with the July/August issue. The increase was made necessary by increased costs for paper and mailing.
The new prices are $9 for a one-year subscription, $17 for two years, and $2 for individual copies. Foreign prices are available upon request.
Current brochures will be honored even though they offer subscription blanks at the old prices.
LEAP coordinators are named in 44 U.S. districts[edit]
Coordinators for the Local Education Adviser Program (LEAP) have now been appointed by the National Education Committee in 44 districts in the U.S.
The LEAP district coordinator monitors the activities of the local education advisers, and serves as the intermediary between the advisers and the National Education Committee.
SPECIFIC coordinator responsibilities include:
- Serving as convenor for adviser workshops (held twice a year).
- Working closely with District Teaching Committees in planning and carrying out children’s programs at District Conventions.
- Introducing and orienting communities and individuals to program materials and strategies.
- Monitoring the progress and the needs of children, youth and families within the district and conveying that information to the National Education Committee.
The term of appointment for a LEAP district coordinator is one year.
The main purpose of the Local Education Adviser Program is to prepare individuals to serve as special advocates for children and youth in the local community, and to help meet the needs of Bahá’í children and youth at the districtwide level.
UNDER the direction of the National Education Committee, three initial district workshops are held on the topic of Bahá’í child education. Sessions last six to eight hours each and are held once a month for three consecutive months.
Upon completion of the three basic sessions (which include homework assignments that are carried out in the local community), ongoing sessions are held at least twice a year to introduce new skills and topics and provide opportunities for advisers to share ideas and community experiences.
LEAP stresses the fuller participation of children and youth in Bahá’í community life, and provides exposure to educational materials for Bahá’í classes.
A workshop topic for the coming fall and spring will be “Preparing Bahá’í Lesson Plans.”
LEAP will be introduced in September in 10 additional districts. The National Education Committee expects the program to be available to all Bahá’í communities in this country by the end of 1983.
Green Acre names logo contest winner[edit]
The Green Acre Bahá’í School in Eliot, Maine, is proud to announce the winner of its recent logo contest—Mrs. Christine Heady of Greenville, Maine, for her “pine tree” design.
The pine is found in all parts of North America and in many other countries of the world, making it an excellent symbol for the people who come from far and wide to Green Acre, as they have from its inception in 1889.
There are many pine trees on the campus, some of which were present when ‘Abdu’l-Bahá made His historic visit to Green Acre 70 years ago this summer, at which time He designated it the “mother school of the world.”
Pine trees play an important role in the life at Green Acre, not only in beautifying the campus, but also in the programs.
Everyone knows where the circle of pines is—morning prayers are held there; children gather there to go to classes and to meet their parents afterward; weddings and a variety of programs have been held there.
These eight pines, forming a semi-circle, were not planted by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, despite stories to the contrary. On the crown of Mt. Salvat stands ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s pine, so named because He stood under it, prayed and spoke of the future significance of that hill and of all of Green Acre.
In what is now the campground area stood a pine tree under which Swami Vivekananda spoke, and which was known for the remainder of its life as “Swami’s pine.”
On hot days, for as long as anyone can remember, classes and meetings have been held under the pines by the library.
Our congratulations to Christine Heady for her artistic rendition of the noble pine!
New plans readied to upgrade ‘Child’s Way’[edit]
The editorial committee of Child’s Way magazine met recently and has come up with a number of exciting proposals that its parent body, the National Education Committee, is now considering.
In its efforts to improve and upgrade the quality of the Bahá’í children’s magazine, the editorial committee has outlined many long-range plans, from changes in format to a more graphically pleasing style to utilizing more fully the talents of the Bahá’í community.
The committee is always eager to receive feedback and suggestions about the periodical. Please send ideas to Child’s Way, ________ Yardville, NJ 08620. Send manuscripts to Radpour, ________ Hixson, TN 37343.
Improvements that will take place in the near future include the appointment of a craft/activity resource person; enlarging what has been “Readers’ Registry” into “Book Nook,” and adding occasional translation of prayers and writings into other languages.
Child’s Way will continue to contain music, letters from our friends, UNIPAR, exciting stories and articles, “Dear Agatha,” parents’ page, and beautiful covers!
the Champion builders[edit]
SARAH FARMER
The life of Sarah Farmer is so closely interwoven with the story of Green Acre, the first Bahá’í school in America, that the two cannot be separated.
It was she who had the founding vision for Green Acre, and of whom ‘Abdu’l-Bahá later said: “To her is due all praise and commendation for having thus initiated this wonderful plan, which must be carried out to its logical conclusion ...”
SARAH FARMER was born July 22, 1847, into a highly creative and socially active family.
On her 12th birthday her father, Moses Farmer, a pioneer in the field of electricity, gave her the honor of turning the switch that lighted one of the earliest electrical lamps in this country, which he had invented. (Thomas Edison, also 12 years old at the time of this demonstration, later became associated with Moses Farmer.)
Her father was a Transcendentalist, influenced greatly by Ralph Waldo Emerson, who believed inventions were the thoughts of God existing in the universe that came through sensitive minds for the benefit of all.
Her mother, Hannah Shapleigh Farmer, was deeply committed to humanitarian efforts, having been closely associated with the leading figures of the early feminist movement, and also involved in the abolitionist movement.
Having grown up in a family in which everyone was welcomed and accepted equally, Sarah attended lectures and conferences, seeking a greater understanding of religious truth and the spirit of unity that she felt existed between all peoples.
She had been invited to become a partner in a large new summer inn near the Maine coast in Eliot. The poet John Greenleaf Whittier, a friend of Miss Farmer’s, visited the resort and gave it the
Iran is focus of historic meeting with U.S. House Subcommittee[edit]
Continued From Page 1
of Iran whose members disappeared in August 1980 and are presumed dead.
Also making strong statements at the hearing in support of the Bahá’ís were two members of Congress, Reps. Edward Derwinski of Illinois and Fortney “Pete” Stark Jr. of California.
The historic two and one-half hour open session, conducted in the Rayburn House Office Building, was presided over by the Subcommittee chairman, Rep. Don Bonker of Washington state.
“SINCE the inception of the Bahá’í Faith,” Rep. Bonker said in his opening remarks, “(the Bahá’ís) have lived in a climate of constant repression characterized by frequent outbreaks of violence and bloodshed ...
“Now once again in post-revolutionary Iran, differences in religious ideology are being used by fanatical elements to justify violent attacks on the Bahá’í community.”
Rep. Derwinski, the first person to speak at the Subcommittee hearing, described the repression of Bahá’ís in Iran as “one of the great tragedies of our times.”
The congressman said he had written to Kurt Waldheim, then Secretary-General of the United Nations, asking for his help in alleviating the suffering of Iranian Bahá’ís, and addressed the House of Representatives on July 24, 1981, “denouncing the cruelty and excesses of the Iranian regime and calling for particular attention to the determined persecution of the Bahá’ís.”
Rep. Stark, who in March introduced a resolution in the House deploring and condemning the religious persecution of Bahá’ís by the government of Iran and a bill to prohibit imports from Iran until it ceases the persecution of Bahá’ís, said, “It is quite sad and ironic that a people who for over one hundred years have striven to bring about the unity of mankind, world peace, and world order, should be the target of flagrant violations of human rights.”
Rep. Stark included in his formal testimony excerpts from the book A Cry from the Heart by the Hand of the Cause of God William Sears.
“I WOULD like to commend the Subcommittee,” Rep. Stark said, “for holding this hearing to focus attention on the plight of the Bahá’ís in Iran. I hope that the Subcommittee will continue its work in this area, and favorably consider my resolution ...”
The horrors that are being inflicted upon the Bahá’í community in Iran, Judge Nelson told the Subcommittee, “stagger the imagination” and “constitute without any doubt a gross violation of all fundamental human rights.”
After cataloging many of the atrocities committed against innocent members of the Faith in Iran and setting forth the reasons given by the present regime there for the persecutions, Judge Nelson carefully refuted each of the allegations, calling them “a sham” and “a smokescreen for religious fanaticism.”
“Time and again,” he said, “the persecutors have confirmed by their own acts that their charges are groundless.”
Bahá’ís in Iran, he continued, have been offered their lives and freedom in exchange for recanting their faith.
The friends in the U.S., said Judge Nelson, “feel no animosity toward the government of Iran. We feel genuine sympathy for the long-suffering Iranian people and wish for them a peaceful and happy future.
“HOWEVER, we cannot remain indifferent to the sufferings of our Iranian brothers and sisters at the hands of bigots, who have no compunction about shedding innocent blood. We call upon our fellow citizens and our elected representatives to proclaim that America will not acquiesce in oppression and that its perpetrators will have to answer for their deeds in the court of world opinion.”
Judge Nelson’s testimony was amplified by several graphic and compelling exhibits including photos of Bahá’í martyrs on whose mutilated bodies were scrawled epithets such as “enemy of Islam.”
Also exhibited was a map showing the locations of instances of persecution of Bahá’ís in Iran since the Revolution in 1978; a listing of the more than 110 Bahá’ís executed there in the last three years; and written orders authorizing dismissal of Bahá’ís from jobs and schools.
Dr. Kazemzadeh, a professor of history at Yale University, placed these events in historical perspective and explained the reasons for the intense hatred of Bahá’ís by the fundamentalists among Iran’s Shiite clergy.
Principally, he said, the Báb’s teachings were “a direct challenge to the Islamic fundamentalists,” since the Shi‘ite clergy held that Muḥammad was the “Seal of the Prophets” and that with Him divine revelation had come to an end.
The Báb, said Dr. Kazemzadeh, not only claimed that He was the “hidden Imam” whose return the Shiite clergy was awaiting, but also that He was a new Prophet and the Herald of a still greater divine Messenger who would come “to fulfill millennial prophecies and bring about righteousness on earth.”
SHAKEN by the Báb’s claims, the clergy set about to undermine the foundations of the new faith. Thousands of its adherents were killed, and in 1850 the Báb Himself was martyred.
These attacks on the Bahá’ís in Iran, said Dr. Kazemzadeh, have continued to the present day.
“Bahá’u’lláh’s teachings on the unity of mankind, the equality of races, the equality of sexes, universal education, the harmony of religion and science, the establishment of a world federation and the maintenance of world peace through collective security, His advocacy of a universal auxiliary language, and of other measures designed to bring about a peaceful and interdependent world society,” said Dr. Kazemzadeh, “were far too advanced to be understood by His contemporaries. These teachings ignited in the Shiite clergy the same passionate hatred it had earlier felt for the Báb, His teachings and His followers.”
By the late 1930s, he said, “the mullahs had created a whole new arsenal of anti-Bahá’í weapons.
“It was suddenly discovered that the Bahá’ís were unpatriotic ...
“When anti-British sentiments swept Iran after World War II, the Bahá’ís were accused of serving the British ...
“WITH the spread of anti-Americanism in the last 10 to 15 years, it became fashionable to link the Iranian Bahá’ís to the United States where there exists a relatively large and active Bahá’í community ...
“Clerical propaganda constantly repeated that Muhammad Reza Shah was surrounded by Bahá’ís and was, perhaps, one himself ...
“I have mentioned the various allegations made about the Bahá’ís to show the unprincipled nature of such allegations. They are all only a cover for religious bigotry. Yet they demonstrate the depth of clerical hostility toward the Bahá’ís and the success the mullahs have had in poisoning the minds of many decent and well-meaning Iranians.
“When the Iranian revolution broke out in 1978, the most radically conservative fundamentalist elements within the Shiite clergy were determined to purge Iran of everything they disliked: modernism, emancipation of women, the rights of minorities, academic freedom, non-conformist thought, opera and the theatre, most forms of music; but their strongest yearning was for the destruction of the Bahá’ís.
“Having achieved power, the old enemies of the Bahá’í Faith could not but use that power to crush a religion and a community
Members of the House Subcommittee on Human Rights and International Organizations listen to Bahá’í testimony about the recent persecutions in Iran. Chairman Don Bonker is seated at right.
Rep. Edward Derwinski (R-Illinois) testifies for the Bahá’ís during the House Subcommittee hearing in Washington on May 25.
Hearing[edit]
Continued From Page 10
for whose eradication they had striven for 138 years.”
Mr. Mitchell, in sketching for the Subcommittee a brief history of the Faith in this country, said that “because the United States Bahá’í community is connected historically and spiritually with Iran, we have a grave concern for the fate of our long-suffering Iranian brothers and sisters, who for 138 years have made incalculable sacrifices of comfort and of life itself for beliefs we hold dear.
“IT SHOULD be noted,” he added, “that the Iranian Bahá’í community has not requested us to do anything on its behalf. It is in response to the letters, telegrams, telephone calls and personal appeals of the American Bahá’ís, and in response to its own sense of grief, that the National Assembly has attempted to bring the heartbreaking story of the persecutions to the press and to our government.”
The U.S. Bahá’í community, said Mr. Mitchell, is thankful for the efforts of individuals and agencies of the government and to international bodies such as the United Nations for their efforts to help relieve the suffering of the hard-pressed Iranian Bahá’ís.
Nevertheless, he said, “a sense of helplessness frustrates our community. Nothing lifts the oppression of the Iranian Bahá’ís. The resolutions of national governments and international organizations go unheeded ...
“We cite these concerns in the hope that the actions of our government and of our fellow citizens will have the following outcome:
“1. Keep the Iranian government and people constantly reminded through frequent public statements that the world is watching what they do to the Bahá’ís and will not tolerate it.
“2. Prevent Islamic Iranian fanatics in this country from curtailing the freedom which American Bahá’ís share with their fellow citizens to meet in peace in the United States.
“3. Assist those Iranian Bahá’ís who seek refuge in the United States.”
THE STORY of the persecution of Bahá’ís in Iran, said Mrs. Nourani, “is an intensely personal one for me.
“With the blessings of the Islamic government,” she said, “I have lost my father and mother to the fanaticism and hatred of the Muslim clergy.
“This story is even more tragic because all the atrocities committed against the Bahá’ís are done with pride, in the name of religion.”
Her father, she said, was an educator and author who for more than 15 years was one of the most revered television personalities in Iran.
“Generations of Iranian children came to love and respect him,” she said. “He was a father figure to them.”
On August 21, 1980, Mr. Mahmoudi, along with eight other members of the National Assembly of Iran and two prominent Bahá’ís, was handcuffed and blindfolded and taken away at gunpoint by revolutionary guards from a private residence in Tehran.
“WE NEVER heard from my father,” she said, “and all the appeals made by the Bahá’í community of Iran to the Islamic government produced no result. We can only fear the worst. My only hope is that he was not tortured.”
Mrs. Nourani’s mother, elected chairman of the next National Spiritual Assembly, was arrested December 13, 1981, and executed secretly December 27 with seven other Assembly members and one other Bahá’í.
Their desecrated bodies were accidentally found half-buried in the “infidel” section of the Muslim cemetery in Tehran.
No family members were notified of their deaths, no trials took place, and no charges were made against them.
Mrs. Mahmoudi, a well-known scientist, had been the director of the Department of Meteorology in Iran and president of the Iranian School of Meteorology.
“After the revolution,” said Mrs. Nourani, “my mother was fired and taken off the payroll. She was even asked to give back all salary she had received for the past 25 years of her service because, they said, it was illegal for a Bahá’í to be hired by the government.”
MRS. NOURANI also told of the execution of a cousin, 35-year-old Mrs. Shiva Mahmoudi, with five other members of the Spiritual Assembly of Tehran; of a cousin of her husband, Habib Taherzadeh, with eight other members of the Spiritual Assembly of Tabriz; and of two of their neighbors in Tehran, Mr. and Mrs. Foroohar, after 10 months in prison.
“Our 138-year history,” she said, “is filled with unspeakable cruelties and atrocities against the Bahá’í community.
“But there is a difference. This time, we have a well-planned case of genocide ...”
The Bahá’í testimony was interspersed with and followed by a number of probing questions by Subcommittee members who listened with rapt attention as the Bahá’ís presented compelling evidence of the extremely harsh and callous treatment to which the friends in Iran are being subjected.
Despite the urgency of a budget debate taking place in Congress that day, most members of the Subcommittee were present at various times during the hearing.
In addition to its chairman, Rep. Bonker, the Subcommittee members are Democrats Michael D. Barnes of Maryland, Benjamin S. Rosenthal of New York, Sam Gejdenson of Connecticut, Mervyn Dymally of California, and Republicans Jim Leach of Iowa, John LeBoutillier of New York, Henry Hyde of Illinois, and Joel Pritchard of Washington state.
At the conclusion of the hearing, Rep. Bonker said the Subcommittee would be working on a resolution “with teeth in it” to present to its parent Foreign Affairs Committee and, eventually, to the House itself.
Subcommittee Chairman Don Bonker (D-Washington state) checks a document with the help of his aide.
Rep. Fortney “Pete” Stark (D-California) offers his testimony supporting action to end the persecution of Iran’s Bahá’ís.
Above: Among the spectators at the House Subcommittee hearing May 25 on persecutions in Iran were (left to right) Auxiliary Board member Albert James, Counsellor Sarah M. Pereira, and Douglas Martin, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly of Canada. Below: Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh listens carefully as a House stenographer reviews his testimony.
The historic House Subcommittee meeting was videotaped so that a permanent record could be kept.
[Page 12]
RACE UNITY
‘When the racial elements of the American nation unite in actual fellowship and accord, the lights of the oneness of humanity will shine ...’ (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, The Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 54)
Only Master can amplify His remarks on races[edit]
|
Your Turn |
Dear Friends:
Regarding the clash of speculative opinion about ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s remarks as to which race is to show appreciation and gratefulness to the other, I would like to direct concerned parties to the new edition of The Promulgation of Universal Peace which contains the Master’s talk at Howard University in 1912 (pp. 44-46) and His explicit statements as to which race should manifest those qualities to the other.
IN TRYING to fit ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s remarks to conform to current social attitudes and to our own notions of what we think He should have said, or should have meant, we overlook the divine principles behind His statements that clarify and explain what seems contradictory to us.
The explanation can only be found by going to the source itself, to His books, rather than to each other.
‘Abdu’l-Bahá certainly did not intend for His words to cause ill-feeling. In the same talk mentioned above, He goes on to say,
“I pray that you attain such a degree of good character and behavior that the names of black and white shall vanish. All shall be called human ...” Isn’t this the true Bahá’í goal?
The Master always speaks of the reality behind the forms and images of our earthly existence.
It seems to me that this divine reality, capable of overcoming racial inequalities and hostilities, is the divine principle of perfect love, of perfect unity.
Ideally, Bahá’ís should not be at cross purposes thinking we should limit our favors to this race or that race, but should manifest appreciation and gratefulness to all races all of the time.
Glencoe, Illinois
On January 26, Bahá’ís in Prince George’s County North, Maryland, presented Bahá’í books to the county’s Memorial Library System. Shown during the presentation are (left to right) Dr. Don Burt Jr.; Soraya Lame; Edward J. Talbert, branch librarian, Hyattsville Library; Linda Head; Anita McHugh, and Khai Do Linh.
Famous blacks in Bahá’í history[edit]
Alexander H. Martin was a distinguished pioneer attorney and one of eight blacks in the 19th Century who were Phi Beta Kappa.
He worked his way through college as a barber and book merchant. Because of his outstanding record, he was graduated as salutatorian of his class.
In 1913, in Cleveland, Mr. Martin and his wife, Mary B. Martin, joined the Faith, and for the next 48 years devoted their activities to promoting the Faith throughout America.
In 1917 Mr. Martin and other black and white leaders founded the Urban League of Cleveland. He died at the age of 89.
Your letters, cards are welcome[edit]
The Race Unity Committee has received mail from many parts of the country concerning “The Most Challenging Issue.” The “year of awareness” appears to have been a great success.
Mail expressing interest, concern and hope toward the eradication of the last of lingering prejudices has come from such places as Lansing, Michigan; Belford, New Jersey; Taylorsville, Mississippi; Rialto, California; Austin, Texas; Detroit, Michigan; Kent, Washington; Highland Park, Illinois; Charlottesville, Virginia; Champaign Township, Illinois; Lyons, Oregon; and Duluth, Minnesota.
Please continue to write to the Race Unity Committee c/o Dr. Carole Allen, secretary, ________ Norfolk, VA 23508.
Reports of your plans to help eradicate prejudice and foster racial amity are most welcome. Please be aware that your letter might reach The American Bahá’í, on the Race Unity Page, unless you specify that you do not want it published. Published letters may not be anonymous.
‘Abdu’l-Bahá lauds unifying purpose of large Universal Races Congress[edit]
“The Universal Races Congress was good, for it was intended for the furtherance and progress of Unity among all nations and a better international understanding. The purpose was good. The causes of dispute among different nations are always due to one of the following classes of prejudice: racial, lingual, theological, personal, and prejudices of custom and tradition. It requires a universal active force to overcome these differences. A small disease which pervades the whole body needs a very strong remedy. A small lamp may light a room, a larger would light a house, a larger still might shine through the city, but the Sun is needed to light the whole world.
“The differences in language cause disunion between nations. There must be one universal language. The diversity in Faiths is also a cause of separation. The true foundation of all faiths must be established, the outer differences abolished. There must be a Oneness of Faith. To end all these differences is a very hard task; the whole world is sick, and needs the Power of the Great Healer.
“These meetings teach us that Unity is good, and that suppression (slavery under the yoke of tradition and prejudice) is the cause of disunion. To know this is not enough. All knowledge is good, but it can bear no fruit except by action. It is well to know that riches are good, but that knowledge will not make a man rich; he must work, he must put his knowledge into practice. We hope the people realise and know that Unity is good, and we also hope that they will not be content to stand still in that knowledge. Do not only say that Unity, Love and Brotherhood are good; you must work for their realisation.”—From Abdul Baha in London, pp. 52-54
One morning Abdul Baha, on entering the room looked about and said, “It is just like a miracle, our being here together. There is no racial, political or patriotic tie. We are drawn together by the words of Baha’u’llah, and in like manner will all the races of the earth be drawn together. Of this, rest assured!”—From Abdul Baha in London, pp. 108-109
“God has created the world as one—the boundaries are marked out by man. God has not divided the lands, but each man has his house and meadow; horses and dogs do not divide the fields into parts. That is why Baha’u’llah says: Let not a man glory in that he loves his country, but that he loves his kind. All are of one family, one race; all are human beings. Differences as to the partition of lands should not be the cause of separation among the people.
“One of the great reasons of separation is colour. Look how this prejudice has power in America, for instance. See how they hate one another! Animals do not quarrel because of their colour! Surely man who is so much higher in creation, should not be lower than the animals. Think over this. What ignorance exists! White doves do not quarrel with blue doves because of their colour, but white men fight with dark-coloured men. This racial prejudice is the worst of all.
“The Old Testament says that God created man like unto His own image; in the Koran it says: ‘There is no difference in the Creation of God!’ Think well, God has created all, cares for all, and all are under His protection. The policy of God is better than our policy. We are not as wise as God!”—From Abdul Baha in London, pp. 47-48
David Guy, a 14-year-old Bahá’í in New Orleans, Louisiana, received an award of appreciation in January from the mayor of New Orleans for his humanitarian act in carrying buckets of water to elderly residents of the Park Esplanade Apartments in that city during a January freeze. He also was given a $25 check by the administrators of the apartments. In a letter to David’s parents, Dr. William and Mrs. Margarette Guy, Father Lyle Kennedy, a resident of the apartments, said, ‘There is great hope for this country when a family produces a youngster of such sterling character.’
Regional media conference held in Washington[edit]
More than 250 Bahá’ís gathered May 15-16 in Seattle, Washington, for a regional Bahá’í media conference hosted by Bahá’í Media Northwest.
Bahá’ís from California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho and Montana attended, with three representatives from British Columbia.
SPECIAL guest speakers were Dr. Dwight W. Allen, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly, and Parks Scott, director of the National Office of Public Affairs.
Other speakers included Dick Forster, an editor of a local newspaper; David Notley, who spoke on special media; and Alan Goldblatt and Burl Barer, the producers of the Jeff Reynolds radio programs.
The Washington Northwest District Youth Committee presented a short play to introduce its theme, “Youth and Media,” then answered questions about ways in which the media can be used to reach youth and how Assemblies can help in this important area of proclamation.
At an evening meeting attended by more than 300 Bahá’ís, Dr. Allen introduced a cassette and video program, “The Light of Bahá’u’lláh.”
He then spoke about working together to spread the Faith through the use of press, radio and television to take advantage of the present interest in the Faith by the local and national news media.
Mr. Barer and Mr. Goldblatt introduced new segments of the Jeff Reynolds show, gave anecdotes regarding media usage, and told how the Bahá’í television show, “The Spiritual Revolution,” was produced.
Mr. Scott addressed the structure and function of media committees, stressing the need to develop local committees and use local media outlets.
He also brought the friends up to date on the present status of media interest nationally, with emphasis on the Falkland Islands and the Bahá’ís in Iran.
Shown at the regional Bahá’í media conference May 15-16 in Seattle, Washington, are Robert Wilson (left), chairman of Bahá’í Media Northwest, which hosted the event, and Parks Scott, director of the National Office of Public Affairs.
Farmer[edit]
Continued From Page 10
name “Green Acre.”
THE INN ran into difficult times, and while attending a lecture in Boston in 1892, Sarah had the vision of people of all backgrounds and beliefs gathering at Green Acre for stimulating intellectual and spiritual discussions.
She convinced her partners to allow the faltering summer resort to become “a universal platform for all mankind, irrespective of race, religion, or nationality.” Green Acre subsequently became a center where leaders of progressive thought in every field met on common ground.
The following year her inspiration grew, as she became even more directed in her purpose, which was “to bring together all who are looking earnestly toward the New Day which seemed to be breaking over the entire world.” She wanted “to find the Truth, the Reality, underlying all religious forms, and to promote the unity necessary for ushering in the coming Day of God.”
Thus, Sarah Farmer became hostess to the thousands of people who flocked to Green Acre to attend the celebrated programs that featured such speakers as Whittier, Edward Everett Hale, Ralph Waldo Trine, William Dean Howells, William Lloyd Garrison, Booker T. Washington, W.E.B. DuBois, Vivekananda, Swami Paramananda, Annie Besant, Rabbi Silverman, and ‘Alí-Kulí Khán.
Attendees at the conferences that filled the inn as well as the tent grounds to overflowing capacity included the prominent Lowells and Cabots of Boston along with young students from Harvard and other Ivy League colleges who were searching after truth.
IN 1899, while on a Mediterranean cruise to try to improve her failing health, Miss Farmer heard about ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, immediately cabled Him, and was invited to come to ‘Akká to visit Him.
Arriving at the House of ‘Abbúd, she walked up the stairs to where ‘Abdu’l-Bahá stood to greet her. Sarah wrote in her diary, “‘Akká! Received by my Lord!”
She recognized ‘Abdu’l-Bahá as the fulfillment of the hopes of all the religions with which she had worked.
She had found her highest ideals given their purest and clearest expression in the Bahá’í Faith, and felt there was nothing left for her to do but offer her services and resources to the Master.
Sarah returned to Green Acre in 1901 more committed than ever. She made it clear that she considered the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh to be the fulfillment of all that religion was seeking, and the programs became more vital and directed, gaining support from wealthy Bahá’ís like Mrs. Phoebe Hearst, Helen Ellis Cole, and Madame Jackson.
Sarah’s health continued to suffer, and after a serious fall in 1907 she spent the rest of her life as an invalid.
BUT HER spirits were greatly lifted in 1912 when ‘Abdu’l-Bahá came to America and visited Green Acre. He assured her that her vision of Green Acre had come through the mercy of God, and that her work would live on.
In 1913, the Green Acre Association voted to adopt a Bahá’í constitution, and in 1925, nine years after Sarah Farmer died of pneumonia, the Association voted to offer Green Acre to the new Bahá’í National Spiritual Assembly for use as a summer school.
On this 70th anniversary of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit to Green Acre, it might be well to recall some of His words to Sarah Farmer as they stood on Monsalvat, where she had envisioned seeing a School of Comparative Religion established:
“This is hallowed ground made so by your vision and sacrifice ...This is where the first Bahá’í University will be built ... This is where the second Bahá’í Temple in the United States will be raised.
“In reality, all this has been built and is right now ready to become a material reality whenever the Supreme Concourse finds mankind purified enough to bring about its consummation ...You will be revered above all American women one fine day, you will see.”
Terry[edit]
Continued From Page 8
of local Bahá’ís, the support of the institutions of the Faith, the teaching occasioned by the funeral, and the historic importance of the first Bahá’í grave in a local cemetery.
It is characteristic, too, that his closing comments focused on the teaching opportunities that have arisen as a result of his personal tragedy.
Terry Trotter truly placed his life in the hands of God, to “go forth assured and unafraid, on His mission.” He forgot his personal limitations, and is, indeed, helping to make this world another world.
N.Y.U. Bahá’í Club holds proclamation[edit]
Twenty Bahá’ís and 25 guests were present April 12 at New York University’s Loeb Student Center for the year’s first proclamation event sponsored by the university’s Bahá’í Club.
The program included an address by Auxiliary Board member Robert Harris; a slide presentation, “A Vision of Unity,” produced by Gina Mendello; and an inspirational performance by the Bahá’í musical duo, “Swan.”
Holy Leaf[edit]
Continued From Page 1
creed, class and colour ... resignation and serenity ... a generosity, a love, at once disinterested and undiscriminating ... a sweetness of temper... a quiet and unassuming disposition ... a forgiving nature ...” all of which “rank among the outstanding attributes of a saintly life.”
Such qualities were forged during a lifetime of hardship and sacrifice through total resignation to the Will of God.
Beginning with the imprisonment of her Father in the Síyáh-Chál when her wealthy family was plunged into utter destitution, the Greatest Holy Leaf’s path of servitude found a variety of expressions.
The hardships of poverty and exile; the performance of her duties for Bahá’u’lláh in the perilous atmosphere of dissension in Baghdád and Adrianople; the greatest display of her power and abundance of love in ‘Akká; her staunch support of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá after Bahá’u’lláh’s passing; her careful stewardship of the Faith during the Master’s travels and later, after His passing, during the Guardian’s periods of seclusion; and the “unfailing solicitude” that she poured upon Shoghi Effendi during the most difficult period of his life, when he regarded her as “my chief sustainer, my most affectionate comforter, the joy and inspiration of my life”—these stand as a brief outline of her widespread and constant services.
A BRIEF excerpt from Baḥíyyih Khánum’s own account, in The Chosen Highway, of her early childhood gives an insight into her experiences:
“Before my father left for his retreat into the wilderness (Sulimáníyyih) he commanded the friends to treat Subh-i-Azal (Mírzá Yahyá) with consideration. He offered him and his family the shelter and hospitality of our house ...
“(Yahyá) became at this time more than ever terrified lest he should one day be arrested. He hid himself, keeping the door of our house locked, and stormed at anybody who opened it.
“As for me, I led a very lonely life, and would have liked sometimes to make friends with other children. But Subh-i-Azal would not permit any little friends to come to the house, neither would he let me go out ...
“Nobody was permitted to come to help us, and the work therefore was very hard. For hours every day I had to stand drawing water from a deep well in the house; the ropes were hard and rough, and the bucket was heavy.
“During this time the darling baby brother, born after our arrival in Baghdád, became seriously ill. Our guest would not allow a doctor, or even any neighbor to come to our help.
“MY mother was heart-broken when the little one died; even then we were not allowed to have anybody to prepare him for burial.
“The sweet body of our beautiful baby was given to a man, who took it away, and we never knew even where he was laid.”
The reports of victories now coming to the Faith as a result of the sacrifices of the Iranian Bahá’í community would have greatly pleased the Greatest Holy Leaf were she here to receive them, just as she was overjoyed by good news during ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s journeys to the West.
Now is the time, in her memory, to extend the scope of these victories, especially in the area of expansion.
The words of the beloved Guardian at the time of her passing serve us well today:
“Intercede, O noble and well-favored scion of a heavenly Father, for me no less than for the toiling masses of thy ardent lovers, who have sworn undying allegiance to thy memory...
“Whatever betide us, however distressing the vicissitudes which the nascent Faith of God may yet experience, we pledge ourselves before the mercy-seat of thy glorious Father, to hand on, unimpaired and undivided, to generations yet unborn, the glory of that tradition of which thou hast been its most brilliant exemplar.”
[Page 14]
PÁGINA HISPANA
Conferencia Regional Hispana de Enseñanza el 20-22 de agosto 1982[edit]
Teniendo como sede el hermoso valle de San Fernando orgullo de la ciudad de Los Ángeles, California, y como anfitriones a la comunidad Bahá’í de San Fernando del 20 al 22 de Agosto del año en curso, con gran entusiasmo y celoso planeamiento se llevará a cabo este histórico evento para nuestra querida fe.
ESTA conferencia será un hecho inolvidable para los participantes ya que además de tener la oportunidad de gozar de dos días de un ambiente de hermandad saturado con mucho amor Bahá’í, podrán conocerse personalmente y compartir ideas y experiencias muchos soldados del glorioso ejército de Bahá’u’lláh para mejor difundir sus enseñanzas al pueblo hispano residente en este país.
No debemos olvidar que proclamar nuestra querida fe y las enseñanzas de Bahá’u’lláh a los hispanos es una de las metas del plan de los siete años y que esta minoría según las últimas estadisticas antes del final de este siglo se convertirá en la minoría más numerosa residente en los Estados Unidos.
En esta conferencia además de los oradores principales que estamos seguros serán interesantisimos, tendremos numerosos talleres a mesas redondas y paneles en los idiomas Español e Inglés, y por supuesto Bilingües los días sábado y domingo.
Oficialmente la conferencia empezará el viernes 20 a las 6:00 p.m. con reunión social para las personas que vengan desde ese día, y concluirá con una gira de enseñanza para las personas que lo deseen y tengan el tiempo necesario, además de una fiesta el día sábado.
Los organizadores de este evento tratando de proporcionar las mayores facilidades a los concurrentes decidimos que la inscripción sea sin costo alguno y además ofrecemos alojamiento también sin costo a un número limitado de personas que vengan de lejos.
Tenemos un paquete con toda la información necesaria para enviarla cuando usted lo pida llamando al teléfono 213-322-6934 o cuando recibamos su inscripción por correo en la forma que aparece en este mismo periódico si así usted lo desea.
Vengan y compartamos esta formidable fuente de información.
Con amor Bahá’í ansiosos de tenerlos con nosotros,
en Español de los Estados
del Oeste de los Estados Unidos
Sueño Bahá’í se realiza después de nueve años. La familia Cantu, de Uvalde, Texas, viajaron dos días en auto para realizar sus sueños de visitar el Templo Bahá’í en Wilmette. Durante su visita asistieron a firesides y enseñaron la Fe Bahá’í con mucho amor y alegría. En la primera fila, de izquierda a la derecha: Vale, Lupe y Henry Jr. En la segunda fila, de izquierda a la derecha: El Sr. Henry Cantu, la Sra. Maria Cantu y el Sr. Ernest López, uno de los superintendentes del Templo Bahá’í.
Curso de estudio número 6: Igualdad de derechos y privilegios para los hombres y las mujeres[edit]
Al proclamar la unidad de la humanidad, El (Bahá’u’lláh) enseñó que los hombres y las mujeres son iguales a los ojos de Dios y no debe hacerse distinción alguna entre ellos.—‘Abdu’l-Bahá
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Bahá’u’lláh ha traído una renovación de la religión. Ahora veremos que esta renovación también ha alcanzado al ámbito social.
Uno de los principios fundamentales enunciados por Bahá’u’lláh a mediados del siglo pasado, y que ha renovado la estructura social de la humanidad, se refiere a la igualdad de derechos y privilegios para los hombres y las mujeres.
‘ABDU’L-BAHÁ explica este principio de la siguiente manera:
“Dios ha creado a todas las criaturas en parejas. El hombre, la bestia o los vegetales; todos los seres de estos tres reinos son de dos sexos y hay igualdad absoluta entre ellos.
“En el mundo vegetal, las plantas macho y hembra tienen los mismos derechos y pertenecen a la misma parte de belleza propia de su especie, aún cuando podría decirse que el árbol que da frutos es superior a aquel que no los produce. En el reino animal el macho y la hembra tienen los mismos derechos y cada uno participa de las ventajas de su especie.
“Hemos visto que en los reinos más bajos de la naturaleza no existe superioridad de un sexo sobre el otro. En la humanidad encontraremos una gran diferencia: el sexo femenino es tratado como si fuese inferior y no se le permiten los mismos derechos ni los mismos privilegios.
“Esta condición no se debe a la naturaleza, sino a la educación. En la creación divina no existe tal distinción.
“La humanidad es como un pájaro con dos alas; la una masculina, la otra femenina. A no ser que ambas alas sean robustas y estén impulsadas por una fuerza continua, el pájaro no podrá volar hacia el cielo.
“DE ACUERDO con el espíritu de esta época, las mujeres deben avanzar y llenar su misión en todos los aspectos de la vida, convirtiéndose en iguales del hombre. Deben estar al mismo nivel de éste y gozar de iguales derechos.
“A los ojos de Dios, ningún sexo es superior al otro. ¿Por qué, entonces, han de sostener los de un sexo que el otro es inferior, adjudicándose derechos y privilegios como si Dios les hubiese dado autoridad para ello?
“Si las mujeres recibieran las mismas ventajas de educación que los hombres, el resultado demostraría la igualdad de la capacidad de ambos para la adquisición de conocimientos intelectuales.
“En ciertos aspectos la mujer es superior al hombre. Tiene un corazón más tierno, es más receptiva y su intuición es más intensa. No podemos negar que, en algunos casos, la mujer del presente está más atrasada que el hombre, pero esta inferioridad temporal se debe a la falta de oportunidades educacionales.
“En las necesidades de la vida, la mujer posee un poder instintivo más fuerte que el hombre, pues él debe a ella su propia existencia.
“Si la madre es educada, entonces, sus hijos serán bien enseñados. Cuando la madre es inteligente, sus hijos serán guiados hacia el camino de la sabiduría.
“SI LA madre es religiosa, enseñará a sus hijos como amar a Dios. Si la madre tiene moral guiará a sus pequeños por el sendero de la rectitud. Es, por tanto, evidente, que las generaciones futuras dependen de las mujeres de hoy día.
“¿No es esta una responsabilidad vital para la mujer? ¿No necesita ella todas las ventajas posibles para capacitarla para cumplir tal deber?
“No agrada a los ojos de Dios que un factor tan importante como la mujer sufra de falta de entrenamiento, que es tan necesario para alcanzar la deseada perfección, que es indispensable para el gran trabajo que le ha sido encomendado. Ante Dios, la dignidad no depende del sexo sino de la pureza y luminosidad del corazón. Las virtudes humanas pertenecen a todos por igual.
“Entonces, la mujer deberá esforzarse para alcanzar mayor perfección, para ser igual al hombre en todos los aspectos, para progresar en todo aquello en que ha estado atrasada, para que el hombre se vea obligado a reconocer su igualdad de capacidad y alcances.
“Las mujeres deben seguir avanzando; deben extender sus conocimientos a la ciencia, la literatura, la historia, etc., para alcanzar la perfección de la humanidad.
“ANTES de mucho habrán conseguido sus derechos. El hombre las verá activas, comportándose con dignidad, mejorando la vida civil y política, oponiéndose a las guerras, reclamando el sufragio y oportunidades iguales.
“Las mujeres deben hacer los más grandes esfuerzos por alcanzar poder espiritual y para engrandecerse en las virtudes de la sabiduría y santidad, hasta que su iluminación y esfuerzos triunfen, realizando la unidad del género humano.
“Deben trabajar con ferviente entusiasmo para difundir las enseñanzas divinas entre los pueblos, para que la luz radiante de la bondad divina envuelva las almas de todas las naciones del mundo.”
No cabe duda alguna que una vez que las mujeres obtengan igualdad de derechos, cesará completamente la guerra entre los hombres.—‘Abdu’l-Bahá
[Page 15]
PUBLICATIONS
‘Light of Bahá’u’lláh’ study program available[edit]
“The Light of Bahá’u’lláh,” a basic program for studying the Bahá’í Faith that utilizes a book and 81 14-minute audio presentations (recorded on 18 cassettes), is now available from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust, according to Greg Weiler, marketing manager of the Publishing Trust.
At the core of the study program is the paperback book entitled The Light of Bahá’u’lláh.
SET IN large, easy-to-read type and illustrated with drawings by Gordon Laite and Lori Block, the book contains chapters on nine basic facets of the Bahá’í Faith: progressive revelation, Bahá’u’lláh, Bahá’í history, spiritual teachings, social teachings, Bahá’í laws, Bahá’í administration, the Local Spiritual Assembly, and Bahá’í community life.
Each of the nine chapters has nine subdivisions. The 81 audio presentations cover the same topics found in the subdivisions of each chapter.
In addition, each cassette contains passages from the Bahá’í Writings and begins and ends with music.
In planning group study sessions one can begin with whatever topic interests the participants—the history of the Faith and its Founder, the laws and teachings, the organization of the Faith, or the manner in which local Bahá’í communities should function.
Then one can assign the appropriate chapter and select the cassette tapes that amplify the written text. And one can supplement the study session with other texts, if appropriate.
The 81 audio presentations can also be used for personal deepenings at home or while commuting in a car. They can spark discussions with seekers, form the basis of youth club deepenings and children’s classes, or enrich consultation at Feast.
THE AUDIO presentations feature more than 200 Bahá’ís of many backgrounds, ages, races and regions. No scripts were used; the comments spring from the hearts of the participants.
The book The Light of Bahá’u’lláh has been released by the Bahá’í Publishing Trust. The audio presentations are a part of a collaboration between the National Spiritual Assemblies of the Bahá’ís of Alaska and the U.S. They were produced by Connections Ltd. of Anchorage, Alaska.
Before next October 1, the entire study program (Catalog No. 831-089), consisting of The Light of Bahá’u’lláh and the 81 14-minute audio presentations on 18 cassettes packaged in two vinyl cases, may be ordered from the Publishing Trust at the special pre-publication price of $55 plus $4.50 postage ($59.50 NET total). The entire program will be mailed in October.
“The Light of Bahá’u’lláh” study program (also Catalog No. 831-089) is also available for a $10 initial payment and $10 per month for the next five months. Again, the entire program will be mailed in October.
After October 1, the study program will sell for $70 plus $4.50 postage ($74.50 NET total).
To order “The Light of Bahá’u’lláh” study program, see your local Bahá’í librarian; phone the Publishing Trust at 800-323-1880; or send a check or money order to the Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091.
- A new introduction to the Faith!
The Light of Bahá’u’lláh
Catch a spark of the love of Bahá’u’lláh and become deepened in the Faith
This new paperback book in large, easy-to-read type is designed to aid new Bahá’ís and youth in studying nine interrelated aspects of the Bahá’í Faith.
Demand for Cry from Heart far exceeds supply[edit]
A Cry from the Heart, the new book by the Hand of the Cause of God William Sears about the persecution of the Bahá’ís in Iran, has evoked an unprecedented response from the Bahá’ís—and, in turn, has prompted the Bahá’í Publishing Trust, and the publisher, George Ronald, to take some creative steps to meet the demand.
The drama began to unfold during and just after the National Convention. The partial shipment of 1,800 copies of the book was depleted during the first five days it was on sale.
WITHIN three weeks, before the remainder of the Trust’s initial shipment had been received, the books had been sold—and the publisher had gone back to press to supply the extraordinary demand.
A shipment destined for India was inadvertently shipped to the U.S. and proved to be a boon. The Canadian Bahá’ís, who also were experiencing brisk sales of the book, kindly let the U.S. Publishing Trust have a number of copies.
The Publishing Trust’s second order from the publisher’s second printing was also sold out before the books reached Wilmette. And a sizable number of subsequent orders also has been sold.
The Publishing Trust would like to thank the Bahá’ís throughout the U.S. for their generous efforts to use A Cry from the Heart to proclaim the Faith—and for their forbearance in waiting for more copies to arrive.
The sales of A Cry from the Heart, during the first three weeks in the U.S., almost topped the annual sales record for any title ever carried by the Publishing Trust.
Both the Trust and the publisher are taking steps to ensure that the book remains in stock. But the unprecedented demand for the book has given a new meaning to the words “temporarily out of stock.”
For the publisher, it is a challenge to anticipate sales and print adequate numbers of the book. For the Publishing Trust, it is a challenge to secure more copies as rapidly as possible.
For the purchaser, it is a challenge for patience. But for all of us, it is a triumph—for we have begun to rise to the challenge issued by the Hand of the Cause of God William Sears to place the book “in the hands of every English-speaking person on the face of the planet” and “to combat and frustrate the evil purposes of a wicked enemy who for nearly 150 years has persecuted, brutalized and murdered some of the most decent, noble and worthy human beings ever placed upon this planet.”
Librarians must file new form by Aug. 15[edit]
By August 15 each Bahá’í librarian, however new or seasoned, must file with the Bahá’í Publishing Trust a new librarian authorization form signed by his or her Local Spiritual Assembly or Bahá’í Group.
Librarians who do not file such a form by August 15 will be presumed not to want an account with the Publishing Trust and will not be able to charge orders and will not receive the librarian’s discount.
If you have not yet received a new authorization form, please write to the Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091. If you have the form, please fill it out and mail it at once to the same address.
Youth, adults and children will enjoy summer releases[edit]
A new book for older youth and adults and one for children are the late-summer releases planned by the Bahá’í Publishing Trust.
Youth in the Vanguard is Marion Carpenter Yazdi’s charming story of the first Bahá’í student at the University of California at Berkeley and at Stanford in the early 1920s.
ANYONE who has been the first “pioneer” on a college campus—or anyplace else—will be sure to find kinship with a predecessor that transcends time or place.
Mrs. Yazdi’s account of her college days is made particularly vivid by extracts from letters she wrote to her parents while she was enrolled at Berkeley and, later, at
World Centre readies 2 new summer titles[edit]
The Greatest Holy Leaf, a book compiled under the direction of the Universal House of Justice and containing texts about her, some 100 of her letters, photographs, and an introduction by the Hand of the Cause of God Amatu’l-Bahá Rúḥíyyih Khánum, and The Bahá’í World, Vol. XVII (1976-1979) are among the new titles coming to the Bahá’í Publishing Trust this summer.
Watch for details in the Publishing Trust “Update” and in The American Bahá’í.
Montreal Conference to feature large International Bookstore[edit]
Plan now to visit the large Bahá’í International Bookstore at the conference in Montreal in September.
The bookstore will stock 1,200 items in 26 languages. In addition to books and pamphlets you’ll also be able to purchase calligraphy, plaques, posters, prints, notecards, photographs, lithographs, films, filmstrips, greeting cards, pendants, bolos, pins, rings and brooches from all over the world.
THE International Bookstore will have generous hours throughout the conference. On Wednesday, September 1, it will be open from noon to 10 p.m.; on Thursday, September 2, from 8:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and on September 3, 4 and 5, from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Payment will be accepted in cash, traveler’s checks and money orders in Canadian or U.S. currency only, and by MasterCard and Visa. Personal checks on U.S. banks, accompanied by Bahá’í identification, also will be accepted.
(Note to the U.S. friends: We recommend that you change your money into Canadian currency and/or traveler’s checks before coming to Canada.)
Two highlights of the bookstore will be autograph parties for Gayle Morrison, author of To Move the World, the recently released biography of the Hand of the Cause of God Louis Gregory, and for Marion Yazdi, author of the soon-to-be-released Youth in the Vanguard, a warm account of her days as the first Bahá’í student at the University of California at Berkeley and Stanford University.
A third event you won’t want to miss will be the release in Montreal of a new edition of Bahá’í Prayers. A limited deluxe edition, priced to raise money for children’s books, will first make its appearance at the Bahá’í International Bookstore.
$10 minimum applied to charge orders[edit]
Due to the expense of handling small MasterCard and Visa charges for Bahá’í books and other materials, the Bahá’í Publishing Trust has had to impose a $10 minimum for such purchases, according to Greg Weiler, marketing manager of the Publishing Trust.
The $10 minimum applies to orders placed over the telephone or by mail, and to purchases at Bahá’í conferences and at the bookstore at the House of Worship in Wilmette.
“All in all, the MasterCard/Visa charge program has been highly successful,” says Mr. Weiler. “We hope that by eliminating the extremely small charges, we will be able to continue to offer the service for some time to come. We know we can count on the support of the Bahá’ís in providing service as economically as possible.”
[Page 16]
CLASSIFIEDS
Classified notices in The American Bahá’í are published free of charge as a service to the Bahá’í community. Notices are limited to items relating to the Faith; no personal or commercial messages can be accepted for publication. The opportunities referred to have not been approved by the National Spiritual Assembly, and the friends should exercise their own judgment in responding to them.
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APPLICATIONS are presently being accepted by the Personnel Office, Bahá’í National Center, for the following vacant positions: Secretariat: Personnel secretary—Logs and processes employment applications, conducts reference checks, types correspondence, maintains files, orders supplies. Requires excellent secretarial skills, experience in fast-paced, high-volume environment, ability to work with sensitive information. Programmer analyst—Needed to work with minicomputer system. Online and batch processing, Cincom TOTAL data base. COBOL and RPG required. Secretary—Drafts and types correspondence to administrative institutions and individual believers. Maintains records, orders supplies. Must type above 55 wpm and be able to work with confidential information. Telephone and word processing experience desirable. Mail services supervisor—Responsible for processing incoming and outgoing mail. Requires ability to drive manual transmission vehicle and lift up to 70 pounds. Bahá’í Publishing Trust: Operations manager—As chief financial officer, has final responsibility for financial reporting. Supervises computerized order entry system. Additional responsibilities include supervision of customer service and order fulfillment departments. Requires college degree and minimum of two years’ proven experience in comparable job or demonstrable equivalent skills. Overseas shipping, foreign currency exchange experience preferred. Marketing assistant—Writes ad copy, jacket copy, newsletters and articles. Corresponds with Bahá’í institutions and local community librarians. Maintains marketing files. Requires proven experience in writing accurate, effective and persuasive prose and working under deadlines. Production assistant—Helps with all phases of composition including keyboarding, paste-up and proofreading. Also helps with production phases including purchasing, design, typesetting, printing, binding, and so forth. Requires an individual who is a self-starter, types above 50 wpm and can maintain detailed records. Must have technical experience in any two of the above listed areas. Subscriber Service Coordinator—Coordinates subscription services for Bahá’í News, World Order magazine and Child’s Way. Requires experience in office procedure and typing above 50 wpm. Applicants must have strong organizational and promotional writing skills and have the ability to consult effectively with a variety of individuals and agencies. Should be familiar with using data processing services. Louhelen Bahá’í School: Maintenance manager—Responsible for buildings and grounds maintenance. Should be generally knowledgeable about custodial services, painting, carpentry, ventilation and security. Requires ability to work well with vendors and volunteers, and to maintain appropriate records. For more information about any of these positions, or to obtain applications, please contact the Office of Personnel Affairs, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039, extension 265.
YACHT captain—Papua New Guinea. A paid position is open for a yacht captain familiar with all aspects of sailing and navigation to sail a 50-foot boat in the southwest Pacific. All applicants considered, single or married. The yacht is to be used to carry fulltime traveling teachers to island groups in the South Pacific for a period of one year. In addition to navigating, responsibilities will include training the teaching teams to operate the yacht themselves. As a part of the team, there will be many opportunities to teach the Faith. Applicants will be evaluated not only for their sailing expertise but also for their compatibility with the traveling teaching team. For more information please contact the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.
NO BAHÁ’ÍS in Chloride, Arizona. If you have a self-contained trailer you can vacation on our property in Chloride free. Write to Bahá’í Faith, P.O. Box 3733, South El Monte, CA 91733, or phone Bill or Gloria Troy for directions at 213-443-0771.
MSW or Ph.D. for director’s position at Buckhorn Children’s Center in the mountains of eastern Kentucky. The center serves 20-30 children as a residential, remedial facility. Salary is in the high teens to low twenties, plus a large house and other good fringe benefits. Isolated, rural location; loving, accepting, spiritually open atmosphere. For more information please write to Nellie Gibson, Buckhorn Children’s Center, Buckhorn, KY 41721, or phone her at 606-398-7435 or 606-398-7245.
EAST CAROLINA University, about an hour’s drive from the Atlantic Ocean in Greenville, North Carolina, has nearly 13,000 students, strong undergraduate and graduate programs in business, medicine and art, an active Bahá’í college club and a local Bahá’í community with an Assembly. Both the club and community need support in teaching and other Bahá’í activities, and are willing to help prospective residents in any way possible. Anyone who appreciates mild winters and is planning to attend or transfer to a four-year university is urged to consider this possibility. For more information please contact James Wilkinson, secretary of the Bahá’í Association of East Carolina University, ________ Ayden, NC 28513, or Jeremy Tarlo, ________ Greenville, NC 27834.
RESIDENT caretaker position is available at the San Diego, California, Bahá’í Center. 20-40 hours per week at minimum wage. Janitorial work, gardening, and light repairs. Apartment with utilities is provided. Please apply with job history to the Spiritual Assembly of San Diego, San Diego, CA 92111, or phone 714-268-3999.
THE NATIONAL Bahá’í Archives Committee is seeking copies of the following books by Bahá’u’lláh, in good or mint condition: Epistle to the Son of the Wolf (cloth, 1969); Gleanings (cloth, 1939, 1943, 1946, 1948, 1952); The Hidden Words (cloth, 1940, 1943); The Kitáb-i-Iqán (cloth, 1950); The Seven Valleys and the Four Valleys (cloth, 1954, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th printings). Anyone who is able to donate these books is requested to contact the National Bahá’í Archives Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.
JOBS are available for Norwegian citizens with a Norwegian petroleum firm in positions such as project managers, cost engineers, planning engineers, construction supervisors and other senior engineering positions. This would be an excellent way for Norwegian Bahá’ís to pioneer to their own home country. For more information please contact the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or telephone 312-869-9039.
THE DISTRICT Teaching Committee of Northern Wisconsin and Upper Michigan is sponsoring a teaching project July 25-30 in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin. Unless one has had extensive teaching experience, attendance at the training sessions on July 25 is required. Housing will be provided, but meals are the teacher’s responsibility. The evening meal will be prepared by the host Group. Estimated expense is from $25 for groceries for meals prepared by you to $75 for eating in restaurants. For more information please contact Mrs. Muriel Potter, ________ Chippewa Falls, WI 54729, or phone 715-723-2415.
ATTENTION health professionals, especially doctors and hospital administrators, physicians’ assistants and nurses. There is a great need for you as a Bahá’í and as a professional in Newcastle, Wyoming, a town of 4,000 in a county of 8,000 that has only two doctors and one physicians’ assistant and lost its hospital administrator in June. Join a Group of six adults in raising an Assembly in this peaceful, rural area. For employment information contact John Ratigan (chairman of the doctor-search committee), ________ Newcastle, WY 82701, or phone 307-746-4264. For information about the community contact Nancy Moore, ________ Newcastle, WY 82701, or phone 307-746-4932.
TEACHERS are needed in Guatemala. The American International School has the following openings starting in September: physical education teacher/sports coordinator; guidance counselor; high school social studies teacher; high school science/math teacher; and three elementary school teachers (grades 1, 2 and 4). Applicants must be certified and should be adaptable to living in a “third world” country with its many frustrations and inconveniences. Knowledge of Spanish is useful but not essential. For more information contact the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.
THE BAHÁ’Í community of Cookeville, Tennessee, invites homefront pioneers to a nice quiet town that is the home of Tennessee Tech, a university famous for its engineering school. Please help this active community maintain its four-year-old Assembly. Since the whole Bahá’í community in Cookeville is Iranian, American friends would be a great help in the teaching activities. For more information please contact Banafsheh Fani, ________ Cookeville, TN 38501, or phone 615-526-7733.
YOUTH homefront pioneering: if you’d like an alternative to public high school in a rural setting while helping to teach the Faith, Scattergood Friends School near Iowa City, Iowa, may be for you. The school combines preparatory study, community life, and a work program to create a balanced education for living. Write to Brad Rishel (a Bahá’í on staff) at RR2, Box 211, West Branch, IA 52358, for more information.
MILLEDGEVILLE, Georgia, needs deepened Bahá’ís to join a Group of four that is long on creativity, action and being “on fire,” but short on experience. Milledgeville, near a large lake, has a four-year college and junior college, and job opportunities, especially for black professionals, in psychology, medicine, psychiatry, nursing and social work at the state mental hospital and prison. Private industries include several fabric manufacturing companies, a power company, an air conditioning company, and an aerospace corporation that plans to hire 250 more employees in the next two years. For more information please contact Sandy or Ken Jasnau, ________ Milledgeville, GA 31061, or phone 912-452-2818.
PIONEER to Mexico. English teachers are needed in the southern town of Chiapas. Now hiring for the 1982-83 school year beginning in September. Teaching credentials and previous experience not required; knowledge of Spanish language is helpful but not essential. For more information please contact the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.
BE A GUARANTEED success! During 138 B.E., in its extension teaching goal of Lebanon, Oregon, the Spiritual Assembly of Linn County held eight public meetings, three direct teaching projects, secured 189 column inches of newspaper coverage that included 10 display ads, sent letters to 10 “leaders of thought,” donated a book to the local hospital chapel, and listed the name of the Faith with the Chamber of Commerce, in the phone directory and on the newspaper church page. Lebanon once had an Assembly; it can have one again. While we undertake to increase our efforts in Lebanon, the success of a homefront pioneer is guaranteed. Please contact the Spiritual Assembly of Linn County, ________ Scio, OR 97374, or telephone 503-394-3914.
CHILD’S WAY is interested in obtaining the help of photographers who are able to conceive of, execute and present photo essays for use in the magazine. Black and white only. Topics can include virtually any “before, during and after” situation that would interest children ages 5-12. Recent issues have used essays on a visit to the dentist and the metamorphosis of a monarch larva into a butterfly. It’s a wide open area. There is no monetary compensation offered for this service, with the possible exception of the cost of materials. Please convey your ideas to Rita Leydon, art director, Child’s Way magazine, Box 127, Lahaska, PA 18931.
NEWLY arrived pioneer in Finland is asking for slides, especially of different races, landscapes, abstracts, etc., for use in making a multi-media slide/music presentation about the Faith for presentation in various languages throughout countries in Europe. Also needed are two projectors. Write to Bill Dennisuk, c/o the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.
FAMILY or single Bahá’í wanted to sublet completely furnished eight-room country home in Foster-ville, Tennessee, for 1-2 years while young Bahá’í woman studies at Columbia University. Would like to exchange this idyllic
More than 500 enjoy 5th Riḍván picnic in Fairfax, Virginia[edit]
More than 500 Bahá’ís and their guests attended the fifth annual Riḍván picnic sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Fairfax County South, in northern Virginia.
This year’s event, held May 2, the Twelfth Day of Riḍván, at Fort Hunt Park, a lovely facility on the shores of the Potomac River about three miles north of George Washington’s home at Mount Vernon, drew attendees from as far away as Baltimore, Maryland, and Richmond, Virginia, along with a large number of non-Bahá’í friends and family members.
Although there was no formal program, these visitors had an opportunity to share in and enjoy the spirit of Bahá’í unity and fellowship and to have their questions about the Faith answered by a number of the believers.
A devotional period was held in the late afternoon.
A large banner across the entrance to the park announced this as a Bahá’í picnic.
Two Bahá’ís in firm that purchases UPI[edit]
Two Bahá’ís are among the officers in a new company that recently purchased United Press International, one of the world’s largest wire services.
The company, Media News, will be managed by Douglas Ruhe, president of Focus Communications of Nashville, Tennessee.
Mr. Ruhe has been a Bahá’í for many years. His father, Dr. David Ruhe, is a member of the Universal House of Justice.
Another of the principals in the new company is William E. Geissler, a Bahá’í who is senior vice-president, planning, of Focus Communications.
Both Mr. Ruhe and Mr. Geissler worked for several years in the National Information Office at the Bahá’í National Center before leaving to form their own company.
Council participation by non-natives limited[edit]
Because of limited space at the third Continental Indigenous Council, and because the Council is being held on a Reserve where large numbers of non-natives is inappropriate, non-native participation in the Council must be limited to those who have been asked to undertake specific responsibilities in connection with the Council and the spouses of Native American Bahá’ís attending the Council.
Everyone is welcome, however, to attend the Pow-wow on Saturday evening.
The Council will be held August 12-15 at the Blood Reserve in Alberta, Canada.
Fourth annual Corinne True Awards presented[edit]
Fifty-six Bahá’ís and the Spiritual Assembly of Chicago were honored May 15 at the Bahá’í House of Worship during the fourth annual presentation of the Corinne True Awards for meritorious service at the House of Worship.
The awards are named in honor of the Hand of the Cause of God Corinne True who was the visible and moving force behind the construction of the House of Worship.
IN 1907 she carried a petition to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá that had been signed by nearly 800 Bahá’ís and that was responsible for getting the project moving.
Mrs. True also found the site upon which the building now rests, and served as financial secretary of the Bahá’í Temple Unity, inspiring great interest in the project all over the world through her voluminous correspondence.
“The awards were established,” notes Bruce Whitmore, manager of the House of Worship and secretary of its Activities Committee, “to pay tribute to those Bahá’ís who have provided outstanding volunteer service during the past year.
“It takes more than 900 Bahá’ís, serving on committees, guiding, reading at devotional programs, singing in the choir, etc., to keep the many programs at the House of Worship functioning.”
Mrs. True’s daughter, Edna True, who also has spent a lifetime serving the Faith, including membership on the U.S. National Spiritual Assembly and the Continental Board of Counsellors for North America, presented the awards, which were divided this year into three categories.
Category No. 1 was for first-time recipients. Of special note among the 34 individuals in this category are Miss Yayoi Akagi, Mrs. Machiko Sato and Mr. Kenichi Hashimoto, Bahá’ís from Japan who came to Wilmette, at their own expense, last summer to participate in an experimental teaching program designed to reach foreign visitors.
CATEGORY No. 2 honored second-time recipients. The criterion for the awards permits an individual to be considered for nomination only once every three years. Of the 47 who received awards in 1979, 19 received them again this year.
One of these recipients, Miss Kay Walker, also held the record for the highest number of times an individual guided during a year: 77. She surpassed that number in 1980 when she guided 115 times!
Two other second-time recipients were Verona and Clarence Suhm who come to Wilmette each summer from Fresno, California, to serve at the Temple.
Category No. 3 was a special award category. Four of the recipients—Joon Chung, Albin Kubala, Thomas Kubala and Allen Washatko—were honored for the outstanding work they have done in creating plans for the House of Worship’s proposed new Visitors’ Center.
Shown during the fourth annual Corinne True Awards ceremony May 15 at the Bahá’í House of Worship with Edna True (sixth from left) are first-time award winners (left to right) Robert Reneau, Roland Ashby, Judi Bryant, Margaret Bustard, Peggy Scott, Kathy Cornyn, Mark Eaton, Manouchehr Derakhshani, Rebecca Koch, Maureen Haghighi, Shohreh Shakib, Ruth Smoot, Paul Levine, Paul Schweitz, Martha Schweitz, Isaac Speed.
Shown with Edna True (second from left) at the fourth annual Corinne True Awards ceremony May 15 at the Bahá’í House of Worship are second-time recipients (left to right) Sylvia Parmelee, Kay Walker, Rexford Parmelee, Janet Marks, Kathelynea Kellum, Irv Somerhalder, Sohayl Moshtael, Sylvia Jenkins, Donald Sims, Steve Brisley, Valerie Smith, Yael Wurmfeld, Verona Suhm, Clarence Suhm, Klanara Zipfel.
Letters[edit]
Continued From Page 3
blank expressions. Someone answered, “We have so many other important things we have to raise money for first.”
“The average person, it seems, has no concept of advertising and promotion, and the friends did not, therefore, contribute to the advertising fund.
“Here are a few concrete ways in which to make an ad work:
• Before placing the ad, study the newspaper page it is to go on (usually the religion page). An ad is not just a lot of words. Are all the ads the same style of type? Do they all have thin borders around them?
• Design your ad to be different from any other ad on the page. You don’t have to be an artist to do this.
• Select a type face that is different. Tell them you want no border around your ad. (You will be copied, so think up something different the next time.)
• Perhaps the guest speaker’s name is in the boldest type at the top, placed beneath
• an illustration ... use a picture or symbol. Words, words, words do not catch the eye by themselves.
• Get your ad in in plenty of time to request the upper right hand corner of the page—ad men know this is the most powerful area in the paper for such an ad.
• The space around your copy is as important as its layout. Do not crowd too much copy into an ad. If you must, have a message two or three lines long, and have it in small letters.
• Use bold letters at the bottom of the ad for date, time and place.
We went to the manager of the local radio station, placed a 30-second spot, showed him clippings from the New York Times, Boston Globe and Chicago Tribune about the execution in Iran of our guest speaker’s uncle, and asked if he would like to interview the speaker.
He was very enthusiastic, and thanked us for allowing him to conduct the interview, which was full, in-depth and strong.
One can be bold and dramatic and still maintain the dignity of the Faith.”
Tryon, North Carolina
- How did ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
- Himself train “the
- spiritual descendants
- of the dawn-breakers”?
- What was the purpose
- of the Master’s trip
- to America?
- How did He, by educating
- our spiritual forbears,
- prepare us to carry on
- the work He “so gloriously
- initiated”?
- Find out in
The Promulgation of Universal Peace
a compilation of many of the talks ‘Abdu’l-Bahá delivered during His historic trip to the United States and Canada in 1912.
- Available in cloth only.
- Catalog No. 106-039
$16.00*
Order through your local librarian, or send $16.00 (plus 10% for postage and handling) to
[Page 18]
PERSIAN PAGE
Ten years ago ...[edit]
in The American Bahá’í
The National Spiritual Assembly presents the Louis G. Gregory Award for service to humanity to Roy Wilkins, executive director of the NAACP, during ceremonies at the Bahá’í House of Worship.
Acting through its North American Bahá’í Office for Human Rights (NABOHR), the National Assembly honors Mr. Wilkins for his role in the observance of the UN International Year for Action to Combat Racism and Racial Discrimination, and in particular, for his singular contributions over many years to the cause of human rights in America.
The award program includes a retrospective on the life of the Hand of the Cause of God Louis Gregory by Glenford E. Mitchell, secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly, and a keynote address on “Human Rights Are God-Given Rights” by the chairman of the National Assembly, Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh ...
All members of the Bahá’í community in Rapid City, South Dakota, and Bahá’ís in the surrounding areas are reported safe following a flood that devastates the city, leaving more than 155 people dead and thousands more homeless ...
Members of the Spiritual Assembly of New York City present Bahá’í books to the chief librarian at the Staten Island Community College library in observance of International Book Year. A display of Bahá’í books is exhibited in the library’s main reading room ...
A proclamation meeting commemorating the 60th anniversary of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is held at the Hotel Schenley in the same room in which the Master spoke in 1912 ...
About 30 Bahá’í youth attend a teaching conference in Akron, Ohio, and later go out to proclaim the Faith to residents of Akron and the surrounding area. A public meeting is held that evening ...
Approximately 75 of the nearly 100 people attending a picnic in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, are non-Bahá’í guests. The picnic is sponsored by the Bahá’ís of East Baton Rouge Parish No. 1 ...
Representatives of the Spiritual Assembly of Jefferson City, Missouri, present a copy of The Proclamation of Bahá’u’lláh to Mayor John Christy who asks several questions about the Faith and about the local Bahá’í community ...
Lois Richards, who pioneered to S.C. at 68, dies[edit]
Lois Richards, who arose nine years ago at the age of 68 in response to a request from the National Teaching Committee to become a homefront pioneer in South Carolina, died last October 7 and is buried at the Louis G. Gregory Bahá’í Institute near Hemingway, South Carolina.
After retiring from a career in public health nursing, Mrs. Richards returned to the University of Michigan, where she had earned her B.S. degree in nursing, to complete the required courses for a teaching certificate.
This enabled her to work as a teacher of adult basic education, thus providing a means of meeting people while at the same time working in a field of service that had always interested her.
Once settled in Kershaw, South Carolina, Mrs. Richards made many contacts through her teaching at a local school. Some of her students became Bahá’ís, followed by their relatives and friends.
Eventually, there were so many interested children that she was teaching three separate children’s classes each week. By this time she had stopped teaching basic education and was devoting all her time to doing what she had come to South Carolina to do: teach the Bahá’í Faith.
Though it was hard being away from her family and three young grandchildren, whom she adored, Mrs. Richards always looked upon homefront pioneering as a great privilege.
“The greatest reward,” she once wrote, “is the reciprocal love that flows between the homefront pioneer and the local believers.”
She served on the District Teaching Committee, and as an assistant to Auxiliary Board member Elizabeth Martin who characterized her as being “a truly confident believer, and that confidence was evident in her work with this institution. Her service will be recalled as a model for others.”
In the words of another of her Bahá’í friends in South Carolina, Robert Ferguson, Mrs. Richards was “one of those valiant soldiers of Bahá’u’lláh who arose no matter what the obstacles and carried forward the banner of love, peace and unity.”
Mrs. Jane Edmunds dies unexpectedly during teaching trip[edit]
Mrs. Jane C. Edmunds, a member of the Bahá’í community of Eliot, Maine, died unexpectedly May 6 while on a teaching and consolidation trip to the Louis G. Gregory Bahá’í Institute near Hemingway, South Carolina.
Mrs. Edmunds, who was born November 5, 1929, in Muskogee, Oklahoma, had lived in Eliot for the past 10 years.
She was the daughter of Ollie B. Jefferson, the first black lawyer to practice in Oklahoma, and Gertrude (Bazart) Jefferson. She was a descendant through her father of Frederick Douglass, a former slave who became a staunch abolitionist, champion of women’s rights and crusading newspaper editor.
Mrs. Edmunds was at first a research biochemist and technician, having attended Wilberforce University in Ohio, and Roosevelt College and Michael Reese Institute in Chicago.
Later, she changed to art history and sculpture, studying at Ohio State University, Sophia International
In Memoriam[edit]
- Julius Allen
- Richland, GA
- April 15, 1982
- Anna Jewel Adams
- Charleston, WV
- May 17, 1982
- Eddie Anderson
- Bennettsville, SC
- Date Unknown
- Paul Angwa
- Jersey City, NJ
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Bessie Arthur
- Seal Beach, CA
- May 23, 1982
- Lee Barnes
- Lexington, SC
- Date Unknown
- William Beaumonte
- Portland, OR
- March 1982
- Mrs. Mary Jane Ben
- Elgin, SC
- Date Unknown
- Alex Bird
- Jamaica, NY
- May 11, 1982
- Robert Blakely
- Lancaster, SC
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Ethel Bogen
- Cordele, GA
- April 22, 1982
- Mrs. Mae F. Brooks
- Cochran, GA
- Date Unknown
- Dan Brown
- Pinehurst, GA
- July 18, 1981
- Goldman Butler
- Wadmalaw Island, SC
- April 5, 1981
- Mrs. Precious Character
- Barnesville, GA
- December 1981
- Lonnie Clark
- Marion, SC
- Date Unknown
- J.W. Davis
- Laurens, SC
- October 1981
- Mrs. Mary Davis
- Laurens, SC
- March 1981
- Mack Davis
- Conway, SC
- 1980
- Vestor Davis
- Lexington, SC
- Date Unknown
- Ms. Justine Defender
- Los Angeles, CA
- April 1982
- Robert Easterling
- Bennettsville, SC
- January 1982
- Mrs. Jane Edmunds
- Eliot, ME
- May 1982
- Mrs. Thomasine Ellison
- Bennettsville, SC
- January 1981
- Jethro Evans
- Nichols, SC
- 1980
- Mrs. Tahereh H. Farahani
- Oklahoma City, OK
- September 19, 1980
- Miss Jan Feink
- Forest Grove, OR
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Harriet S. Frazelle
- Melba, IN
- 1981
- Vincent Filaramo
- Middleton, CT
- April 1982
- Vernell Flowers
- Zebulon, NC
- May 12, 1982
- Mrs. Mary B. Gardner
- Lexington, SC
- Date Unknown
- E.H. Gates
- Lexington, SC
- Date Unknown
- Jim Gilbert
- Richland, GA
- February 1982
- Mrs. Carrie Gillie
- Columbia, SC
- Date Unknown
- Abon Green
- Elgin, SC
- Date Unknown
- Herbert Grotefend
- Oak Park, IL
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Flossie Henderson
- Chapel Hill, NC
- August 1981
- Otis High
- Zebulon, NC
- Date Unknown
- Miss Katherine Imig
- Glendale, AZ
- April 27, 1982
- Bennie Jacoway
- Mounds, IL
- April 1982
- Mrs. Gladys Johnson
- Cochran, GA
- 1981
- Mrs. Lucille Johnson
- Cordele, GA
- 1979
- Mrs. Mattie Johnson
- Marion, SC
- January 1982
- Everett Jones
- Columbia, SC
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Jessie Bell Jones
- Columbia, SC
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Dorthy H. Killens
- Marion, SC
- Date Unknown
- Mr. Robin Lindsley
- Grass Valley, CA
- January 10, 1982
- Helmer Lindstrom
- Astoria, OR
- April 18, 1982
- Hoover Mangum
- Apex, NC
- 1981
- Homer Manson
- Cochran, GA
- 1981
- Elbert Marzett
- Wichita Falls, TX
- July 6, 1980
- James McCoy
- Lancaster, SC
- Date Unknown
- Ernest McCray
- Cleeviston, FL
- April 1982
- Mrs. Callie Michle
- Camden, SC
- Date Unknown
- Robert Miles
- Darlington, SC
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Martha Moore
- Gresham, SC
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Mattie Morris
- Cochran, GA
- 1980
- John Henry Nicholson
- Blenheim, SC
- January 1981
- Mrs. Frances Podolsky
- Lakewood, CA
- April 19, 1982
- Mrs. Annie Mae Redding
- Richland, GA
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Katherine Robinson
- Cottage Grove, OR
- April 15, 1982
- Leroy Russell
- Chapel Hill, NC
- August 1981
- Mrs. Evelyn Schiffman
- Hyannis, MA
- April 10, 1982
- Dr. Aubrey Shakespeare
- Birmingham, AL
- June 1981
- Mr. Jesse Simplicio
- Zuni, NM
- Date Unknown
- Mr. Dannie Sloan
- Clio, SC
- 1980
- Mr. Ches Smith
- Edgefield, SC
- Date Unknown
- Mr. Jesse Stephens
- Newberry, SC
- January 21, 1982
- Mrs. Daphna Stewart
- Chapel Hill, NC
- August 1981
- Joseph O. Taylor
- Apex, NC
- Date Unknown
- James L. Thomason
- Greenville, SC
- December 1978
- Calvin Thompson
- Pembroke, NC
- November 1981
- Mrs. Jean Thompson
- Dallas, TX
- Date Unknown
- Charles Trevis
- Reno, NV
- 1980
- Miss Raini Tortorici
- Bend, OR
- April 25, 1982
- Enoyatullah F. Touski
- Irvine, CA
- December 27, 1980
- Ms. Clara Webb
- Boise, ID
- May 15, 1981
- Mrs. Betty Wells
- Saluda, SC
- Date Unknown
- C.P. Williams
- Gresham, SC
- Date Unknown
- Edward H. Wittig
- Portland, OR
- September 1981
- Gregory D. Wooster
- Buffalo, NY
- November 18, 1981
- Mrs. Bessie Wright
- Lancaster, SC
- Date Unknown
- Mrs. Bobbie Wright
- Richland, GA
- 1979
Douglas Martin among speakers at Chicago convention on Iran[edit]
Douglas Martin, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly of Canada, was one of eight speakers May 22 at a convention on human rights and civil liberties in Iran that was held at the University of Chicago.
Mr. Martin’s participation was authorized by the Universal House of Justice.
IN AN eloquent hour-long presentation that included showing a number of slides, Mr. Martin discussed the recent persecution of Bahá’ís in Iran.
The audience of about 100 was composed primarily of Iranians.
Several people at the meeting privately expressed their strong opposition to the cruelties perpetrated against the Iranian Bahá’ís, both now and in the past.
Prior to Mr. Martin’s address, the official representative of Amnesty International reported on the atrocities committed against the Bahá’ís, stressing that the Iranian believers are guilty of no wrong-doing and that the accusations leveled against them are mere lies and fabrications.
During the day, Mr. Martin and other Bahá’ís who attended the conference were approached by individuals and engaged in cordial discussions about the Faith.
After the conference, those conversations were continued at a reception for selected guests at the home of the conference chairman.
Vanguard[edit]
Continued From Page 15
Stanford University.
She also includes accounts of interviews she had with Dr. David Starr Jordan, who was president of Stanford when ‘Abdu’l-Bahá visited in 1912, and with others of her professors who met the Master.
Older youth and adults alike will find in Youth in the Vanguard a heartwarming and positive tale of the nitty-gritty of establishing the Faith in a chosen locality.
Zahra’s Search, written by Gail Radley and illustrated by Winifred Barnum Newman, is a desert tale of adventure and daring for 5- to 11-year-olds.
Zahra, the youngest gazelle in the herd, is alarmed when her brother disappears. When the other gazelles go on about their business, Zahra determines to find her beloved Amir.
Certain death at the mouths of a hungry pack of dogs forces her to take a chance that brings rewards she never dreamed existed.
Teachers and parents will find the book useful for sparking lively discussions about a number of spiritual qualities and aspects of Bahá’í life.
Ordering information on these two forthcoming titles will be published in the near future in The American Bahá’í and the Publishing Trust “Update.”
Ads[edit]
Continued From Page 16
country house for apartment or dwelling in or around New York City, or would gladly exchange for any Bahá’í who is willing to help bring the seven-member Group in Murfreesboro to Assembly status. The house is 16 miles south of Murfreesboro, 55 miles from Nashville. Teaching opportunities in a nearby private grade school or at Middle Tennessee State University which has a Bahá’í club. Features of the farm include goats, cows, a waterfall, garden plot, well water, wood stove and large hills for hiking or meditation. Please contact Tarron Estes, ________ Bell Buckle, TN 37020, or telephone 615-233-5416 or 615-389-9322.
PROFESSIONAL or semi-professional photographer is needed to fill a vacancy in an existing studio in the Bahá’í Center building in downtown Wapato, Washington, where the Yakima Indian Reservation’s Spiritual Assembly is in jeopardy with eight members. Write to the Spiritual Assembly of Wapato, P.O. Box 247, Wapato, WA 98951, or phone Arne Eklund, 509-877-4554.
AN ENDANGERED Assembly in the lovely and charming college town of Blacksburg, Virginia, desperately needs homefront pioneers. Several area colleges, such as Virginia Tech, Radford University, Roanoke College, Hollins College and two community colleges offer many opportunities for employment or education. For more information please write to Beth Solka, ________ Blacksburg, VA 24060.
THE NATIONAL Spiritual Assembly of Haiti must sell a house in an excellent residential neighborhood. Haiti is a splendid country for people with an outside income, such as retired persons who do not have any serious health problems and who like a colorful and interesting place to live. Labor is extremely inexpensive (household help is about $30 a month). The house was designed for use as a Bahá’í Center on the ground floor with living quarters on the upper floor (three bedrooms). Priced at around $40,000, but needs some finishing. Please contact the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.
THE LOVELY coastal town of San Clemente, California, beckons to homefront pioneers who desire clean air in a temperate climate. Scenic flower-lined streets, with a touch of Mexico, wind down to white sand beaches. This quiet and attractive town lies halfway between the great cities of Los Angeles and San Diego. For housing and employment opportunities and information, please write to the Spiritual Assembly of San Clemente, P.O. Box 195, San Clemente, CA 92672.
DR. CHRIS Johnson (Center on Aging, ________ Monroe, LA 71203) wishes to contact anyone with information or references concerning treatment of or respect toward older people by family members. Also, I am trying to generate a list of ex-ministers, priests or nuns who have become Bahá’ís. Any names and addresses of these people would be appreciated. And anyone who is interested in homefront pioneering to Monroe, please contact me at 318-345-0482.
THE URBANA, Illinois, Bahá’í Center, a turn-of-the-century home rich in Bahá’í history, needs rewiring to meet local safety codes. The Spiritual Assembly of Urbana is seeking qualified electricians to bid on this project. For more information please write to the Urbana Bahá’í Center, ________ Urbana, IL 61801.
HOMEFRONT pioneer: Please help save a jeopardized five-year-old Assembly in La Grande, Oregon (population 13,000), nestled in the foothills of the Blue Mountains which offer extensive recreational opportunities. Eastern Oregon State College boasts a good four-year program in the sciences, rural nursing and education, and there are no out-of-state tuition fees! College students could serve the Faith by opening a Bahá’í campus club—a sponsor already exists. The La Grande area is primarily agricultural. There are several federal and state agencies that periodically hire personnel, a hospital and several nursing homes, and many support services. For more information write to the Spiritual Assembly of La Grande, P.O. Box 1643, La Grande, OR 97850, or phone 503-963-9447 or 503-963-2084.
HOMEFRONT pioneers are needed for consolidation areas in Salinas Valley, California: Pajaro, Castroville, Chualar, Gonzales, Soledad, Greenfield. Ideally, Spanish-speaking couples or families. For information please contact the District Teaching Committee, California Central No. 1, c/o Valerie Wilson, corresponding secretary, ________ Palo Alto, CA 94301.
PIONEER to South El Monte, California. There are no Bahá’ís in this industrial city with excellent climate and resources for senior citizens. Mobile homes start at about $12,000. Free transportation for seniors. Write to Bahá’í Faith, P.O. Box 3733, South El Monte, CA 91733.
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University in Tokyo, and Wichita (Kansas) State University.
“Lady Jane,” as she was affectionately known, heard of the Bahá’í Faith at firesides in Chicago in the early 1950s.
After meeting her husband-to-be in 1958, their second date was an all-day excursion to the Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette.
In 1971 the Edmunds moved to Eliot, purchasing a home that formerly belonged to the Hand of the Cause of God Siegfried Schopflocher. Shortly afterward, Mrs. Edmunds became a Bahá’í, to be
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participation, love, unity, the nature and importance of individual action, the role of the family, and the prosecution of the Divine Plan.
The main purpose of the course is to give every Bahá’í an understanding of the role he or she is to play in the growth of the Faith, no matter what Plan is currently being pursued, and regardless of the difficulties posed by world conditions.
This new course promises to be one of the best ever produced by the Treasurer’s Office. Interested schools, communities and individuals can contact the nearest National Treasurer’s Representative to receive further information, or to arrange for a presentation.