The American Bahá’í/Volume 15/Issue 7/Text

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[Page 1]

July 1984

American

The

Bahá’í

TO ALL NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLIES DEAR BAHA’i FRIENDS

PERSECUTION FRIENDS CRADLE FAITH PERSISTS, TAKING EVEN MORE INSIDIOUS TURN. IN MARCH AT LEAST THREE PRISONERS DIED UNDER MYSTERIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES, TWO IN TIHRAN AND ONE IN BAFT, KIRMAN. BODY OF MUHSIN RADAVi, 55 YEARS OLD, SHOWED EVIDENCE OF HANGING. OTHER TWO, ‘ABDU’L-HUSAYN SHAKIRI-HASANZADIH, 64, AND NUSRATU’LLAH DIYA’I, 61, WERE BURIED WITHOUT FRIENDS RELATIVES BEING INFORMED.

ARRESTS CONTINUE WITH LEAST AMOUNT PUBLICITY. SINCE LAST REPORT 17 JANUARY ALTHOUGH SOME BAHA’{i PRISONERS RELEASED, 111 HAVE BEEN ARRESTED, MOST OF WHOM WERE MEMBERS OF SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLIES BEFORE THEIR DISSOLUTION LAST YEAR. NUMBER BAHA’iS KNOWN TO BE IN PRISONS IN IRAN TOTALS 704.

Mr. Sears says ‘Bravo!’

WLGI Radio goes on the air May 23 with test broadcast

WE HASTEN TO SHARE WITH UNIVERSAL HOUSE JUSTICE THE JOY OF VICTORY. TODAY, MAY 23, 1984, AT 4:35 P.M. EDT, RADIO STATION WLGI WENT ON THE AIR IN TEST BROADCAST THAT BEGAN WITH TAPED STATEMENT BY

ACCURATE INFORMATION IN HAND DESCRIBES TORTURES PERPETRATED AGAINST SOME VERY PROMINENT BAHA'IS. FOR EXAMPLE ONE BAHA’i SEVERELY TORTURED UNDER EXTREME CIRCUMSTANCES FORCED CONFESS TO FALSE CHARGES. OTHERS SIMILARLY TORTURED RESISTED PRESSURES EXERTED ON THEM TO MAKE FALSE PUBLIC CONFESSIONS FOR BENEFIT RADIO TELEVISION. UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE APRIL 10, 1984

TO ALL NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLIES DEAR BAHA’I FRIENDS,

FURTHER OUR MESSAGE 10/11 APRIL JUST RECEIVED DISTRESSING NEWS EXECUTION BY FIRING SQUAD IN EVIN PRISON TIHRAN FOLLOWING BELIEVERS:

MR. KAMRAN LUTFi, 32 YEAR OLD UNIVERSITY PROFESSOR, IMPRISONED MAY 5, 1983.

The National Spiritual Assembly convened an extraordinary conference May 25-27 at the Louhelen Baha’i School in Michigan

Persecutions in Iran take more insidious turn

MR. RAHiM RAHIMIYAN, 50 YEAR OLD BUSINESSMAN, IMPRISONED MAY 5, 1983. MR. YADU’LLAH SABIRIYAN, 60 YEAR OLD PRINTING PRESS MANAGER, IMPRISONED FEBRUARY 9, 1982. SINCE EXECUTIONS NOT ANNOUNCED AND BODIES UNCEREMONIOUSLY BURIED WITHOUT FAMILIES RELATIVES BEING INFORMED, EXACT DATE EXECUTIONS UNKNOWN. FEARFUL OTHER BAHA’i PRISONERS RECEIVED SAME FATE. NOW ESTABLISHED FACT THAT ‘ABDU’L-HUSAYN SHAKIRI-HASANZADIH WAS ALSO EXECUTED BY FIRING SQUAD. INSTEAD OF DYING MYSTERIOUSLY IN PRISON AS REPORTED. DUE OMINOUS TURN BAHA’i SITUATION IRAN REQUEST YOU PROCEED PUBLICIZE RECENT PERSECUTIONS INCLUDING INFORMATION REGARDING TORTURES PREVIOUS MESSAGE. UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE APRIL 13, 1984

Dynamic Louhelen conference maps strategy for achieving goals of Plan

=

CONGRATULATIONS.

At the start of the first test broadcast May 23 on WLGI Radio in South Carolina, the voice of the Hand of the Cause of God William Sears radiated from atop the station’s 500-foot FM tower, reaching nearly one-third of the state’s residents with these words:

“This is WLGI, 90.9 megahertz, the voice of the Louis Gregory Institute. Bravo!’’

The antenna for the first Baha’i-owned and operated radio station in North America had been connected only minutes before the first broadcast.

Later that same evening, WLGI came back on the air with music

Index

HAND CAUSE WILLIAM SEARS. NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY

MAY 23, 1984

SHARE YOUR JOY MAIDEN BROADCAST WLGI. WARMEST

UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE

MAY 24, 1984

and station identifications.

Baha’is from Charleston, Myrtle Beach, Florence and Orangeburg began phoning the Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute near Hemingway to report hearing the new station, says Dr. Alberta Deas, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly who is director of the Gregory Institute.

Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh, vicechairman of the National Spiritual Assembly, phoned the other members of the National Assembly, who were meeting that weekend at the Louhelen Baha'i School in Michigan, with news of WLGI’s first broadcast.

Initially, the station began broadcasting four to five hours each day with music and station identifications. On June 3, says Dr. Deas, the station’s operators filed a request with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for permission to begin regular programming and to receive a station license.

Broadcasting by the new Baha’i station, she says, will be increased gradually from the initial four to five hours each day to 12 and later 18 hours daily.

Eventually, WLGI may broadcast 24 hours a day, but initial plans do not call for it to do so.

“to forge a new and common understanding of the Campaign of Unified Action’’ and to use that understanding as the basis of a cohesive and dynamic strategy for winning the goals of the Seven Year Plan.

TAKING part in the conference with eight members of the National Spiritual Assembly were:

¢ Four members of the Continental Board of Counsellors in the

Louhelen message, Page 2

Americas: Farzam Arbab, Sarah Martin Pereira, Fred Schechter and Velma Sherrill.

¢ Dr. Peter Khan, a Counsellor member of the International Teaching Centre in Haifa.

Representatives of the American Indian Teaching Committee, Business and Professional Affairs Committee, International Goals Committee, National Education Committee, National Teaching Committee, National Youth Committee, Persian Affairs Committee, NSA Properties Committee, Race Unity Committee, Social

Dr. Robert Henderson, secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly, chairs a plenary session dur

and Economic Development Committee, and South Carolina Regional Teaching Committee.

¢ Auxiliary Board members Stephen Birkland, Dorothy Borhani and Khalil Khavari.

ing the meeting of senior institutions, national committees and National Center staff at Louhelen.

• Senior staff from the Baha’i

National Center, the Baha’i Publishing Trust, and the Louhelen Baha’i School.

See LOUHELEN Page 4

U.S. House again condemns persecution of Iran’s Baha’is

On May 22, the U.S. House of Representatives approved House Concurrent Resolution 226 which holds the government of Iran responsible for protecting the rights of all its citizens including the Baha’is, condemns the edict of August 1983 labeling organized Baha’ activities ‘‘criminal acts,”” and calls on the President to work through appropriate channels to help relieve the plight of the Baha’is in Iran.

THE Resolution, whose intro duction in the House coincided with the 140th anniversary of the birth of the Faith in Iran, won passage 20 days after Bahá’í testimony before the House Subcommittee on Human Rights and International Organizations (see The American Baha’i, June 1984, p. 1) and exactly one year after a dramatic appeal by President Reagan on behalf of the Baha’is in Iran. It was drafted by Rep. John Porter of Illinois who said in his remarks that its 188 co-sponsors

included many members of the Congressional Human Rights Caucus.

Also speaking in support of the resolution were Rep. Gus Yatron of Pennsylvania, chairman of the Subcommittee on Human Rights and International Organizations; Rep. Jim Leach of Iowa, the subcommittee’s ranking minority member; Rep. Fortney (Pete) Stark of California; Rep. Carroll

See RESOLUTION Page 12

[Page 2]

VIEWPOINT

The American Baha'i

2

A message from Louhelen

On May 25-27, the National Spiritual Assembly met at the Louhelen Bahá’í School in Michigan with four members of the Continental Board of Counsellors in the Americas; Dr. Peter Khan, a Counsellor member of the International Teaching Centre in Haifa; members of each of its national committees; three Auxiliary Board members; and senior staff from the Bahá’í National Center in Wilmette.

Following this extraordinary gathering, whose purpose was to devise plans and strategies designed to win the remaining goals of the Seven Year Plan, the National Spiritual Assembly composed a letter to the Bahá’ís of the United States, “‘the community of victors,”’ as they were called by the Universal House of Justice in its message of Riḍván 1984, to share with them the National Assembly’s feelings of joy, gratitude and commitment, and to call upon them to mobilize their resources to assure that victory in the Plan will be won at Riḍván 1986. The text of the National Spiritual Assembly’s message is reprint

To the Community of Victors The Bahi’is of the United States Dearest Friends,

On May 23, 1984, the anniversary of the inauguration of our Faith, coincidental with the historic first broadcast of Baha’i Radio in North America, the National Spiritual Assembly convened at the Louhelen Baha’i School a meeting of the members of the National Spiritual Assembly, four members of the Continental Board of Counsellors for the Americas, members of the Auxiliary Board, all national committees and National Center staff. The gathering was honored by the presence of a member of the International Teaching Centre, Counsellor Peter Khan.

The purpose of this meeting was to forge a new and common understanding of the Campaign of Unified Action and its implications for the achievement of the remaining goals of the Seven Year Plan.

We were exhilarated by the praise bestowed upon this community by the Universal House of Justice in its message of Ridvan 1984, referring to our ‘‘defense with such dexterity and irrepressible vigor’’ of our ‘‘sore-oppressed fellow Baha’is in Iran,’’ and exulting in our many other “‘remarkable feats.”

At the same time we stood in sober recognition of the lament of the Supreme Institution at the ‘‘sad lag in the rate’’ of our enrollments. Having so recently caught a glimpse of the potential of the Campaign of Unified Action as represented by the astounding success of the Day of Unity and Sacrifice, we met in the conviction that we could achieve the unity of purpose and direction necessary to accomplish the goal of unprecedented growth in the American Baha’i community.

The fundamental purpose of the Campaign of Unified Action is to mobilize the American Baha’i community to capture its glorious destiny as envisaged by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Its urgency is magnified by the sacrifices of the Baha’is in Iran and the consequent release of spiritual energy throughout the Baha’i world. Its specific goal is to enable the present generation of American Baha’is to contribute its share to the realization of this destiny by

of the sun, the oneness of rain and the oneness of the breeze have so overcome all other considerations, that the variety of hues, fragrances and tastes have increased the adornment, the attraction and sweetness of the whole.”’—‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Seized with this vision, we call on every individual believer to free himself from any consideration of limitation or inhibition and to assert his rightful claim to the distinction of being a teacher for Baha’u’llah.

We call on every Local Spiritual Assembly to remove every impediment to individual initiative and to assure community support for the exercise of that initiative. We ask each to open and continue consultation with the community in order to develop and sustain systematic and viable plans for teaching. These plans should be focused on specific targets, have realistic numerical goals, stimulate the release of the full spectrum of individual talents, and enlist the resources of all institutions and agencies which exist to serve the friends.

Furthermore, we urge each (Assembly) to evaluate periodically the progress of its plans and communicate to us its experiences so that they may be shared with the national community. hi

After this meeting, confirmed in our commitment to unity, our committees, agencies, Auxiliary Board members and their assistants will endeavor to organize their activities to serve, to support and to help assure the success of your plans. We restate our pledge of partnership with you in every enterprise. We take upon ourselves and our agencies the obligation to help formulate plans, to stimulate activity, and to mobilize resources to help sustain your efforts in order to achieve all the goals of the Seven’ Year Plan.

Our deliberations together at Louhelen gave us a new appreciation of our destiny, reaffirmed by the Universal House of Justice when it addressed us:

“You are a community of victors; you occupy the front ranks of Bahá’u’lláh’s invincible army of light; indeed, you must remain in the vanguard of its thrust.’’

ake achieving an unprecedented level of enrollments. Its basic concern May the confirmations of the Holy Spirit bless the united efis to connect human hearts with Bahá’u’lláh. Its object is the ful- forts of our community. fillment of our long-time dream of attaining unity in diversity: The Continental Board The National Spiritual Assembly “Consider! When the rain, the heat, the sun and the gentle of Counsellors of the Bahá’ís of the United States zephyrs cooperate with each other, what beautiful gardens are Farzam Arbab Robert C. Henderson produced! How the various kinds of hyacinths, flowers, trees and , Sarah Pereira Secretary plants associate with each other and are conducive to the adorn- Fred Schechter ment and charm of one another! Hence the oneness of the bounty Velma Sherrill Comment

Summer Schools lead way to better tomorrow

Imagine a day begun with pfayers in a variety of languages, songs from around the world, children reciting by heart the verses of God, followed by stimulating lectures and discussion groups with a mingling of views, friends from many cultural backgrounds gathered together, young and old alike sharing in afternoon recreational activities and evening programs of spirited entertainment ...

DOES this sound like community life in the Baha’i commonwealth of the future? Perhaps so. But it also describes fairly closely

———EEEEEeeess The American Baha’i

(USPS 042-430) Published monthly by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States, $36 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, IL 60091. Second class Postage paid at Wilmette, IL.

Eattor: Jack Bowers ‘Associate Editor: David E, Ogron ‘The American Bahi'i welcomes news, letters ana ‘othe items of interest from individuals and the various institutions of the Faith, Articles should be written in a clear and concise manner; color or

+ black and white glossy photos should be included whenever possible. Address all materials to the Editor, The American Bahá"s, Wilmette, IL 60091 Copyright © 1984 by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States, World rights reserved.

|. Printed in the U.S.A.

beanie re TE RE SS SESS SEY EE ETERS

a day at a Baha’i Summer School of the present.

Sometimes, it seems, we take the existence of our Summer Schools too lightly.

Do we really know the power and impact they can have on our lives? Do we understand the role they can play in Bahá’í community life, in helping to build that dream of the Bahd’{ commonwealth we all share?

In numerous passages, the Guardian conveyed to the friends the nature and purpose of the Summer Schools, which he referred to as “nascent Baha’i institutions of learning,”’ ‘‘powerful centers of Baha’i learning,’’ and “the very basis upon which Baha’i universities of the future will be established.”

While there are many other activities around us that are calling for our time during the summer, it is only our Summer Schools that are, in the words of the Guardian, “designed to foster the spirit of fellowship in a distinctly Baha’i atmosphere.’”

THIS IS where we can gain the necessary training to become better Baha’i teachers, study the

This month’s article on Baha’i Summer Schools was written by Anne and Robert Atkinson of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

history and teachings of the Faith, and acquire the insight required to better understand the Faith’s relation to other religions and to society in general. :

And what better place for our children and youth to acquire the education and enthusiasm we desire for them?

The Guardian encouraged all the believers to ‘‘spend a few days in one of these schools and take an active part in their development,” and to “‘persevere in raising the standard, both intellectual and spiritual, of their Summer School and to heighten its prestige in the eyes of the friends, and of the general non-Baha’i public outside.’”

This is our challenge, and also our reward. For as the Guardian assures us, attending a Baha’i Summer School is often “the means of bringing to light hitherto unsuspected capacities among the friends.””

It carries out the work of “bringing forth jewels from the

mine of humanity,’’ and most important, serves as a ‘‘vital and inseparable part of any teaching campaign, and as such ought to be given the full importance it deserves in the teaching plans and activities of the believers.””

Combining the “‘threefold features of devotion, study and recreation,’’ the Summer School, says the Guardian, fulfills ‘‘its true function of deepening the knowledge, stimulating the zeal, and fostering the spirit of fellowship among the believers in every Baha’i community.”

IT WAS the Guardian's hope that everyone who attends a Summer School ‘‘will have derived such mental and spiritual benefits, and acquired such a fresh enthusiasm to serve as will enable him, upon his return to his local community, to labor with a determination and vigor that will excite the envy and admiration of his fellow believers, and stimulate them to greater heights of consecration to the service of our beloved Cause.””

In addition, he said, ‘The Baha’is must realize that they belong to a worldwide order, and not an American civilization.

“They must try and introduce the Baha’i atmosphere of life and thought into their Summer Schools, rather than making the Summer School an episode and a pleasant vacation period, during which they learn a little more about the Faith.’”

Certainly the Summer Schools, as national and not merely local institutions, can widen the scope of our understanding of our purpose as Baha’is.

They can help us to clarify goals, strengthen our families, give us direction and a greater measure of certitude.

In return, we can give to them our input and services which will hasten their growth as centers of Baha’i learning.

Since teaching the Cause is our ultimate goal, perhaps no other experience at this time of the year could inspire us more to develop and carry forward the teaching work so vital to the transformation of the hearts of humanity.

(All quotations in this article are from Centers of Bahá’í Learning, extracts from the writings of Shoghi Effendi and the Universal House of Justice.)

[Page 3]LETTERS

duly 1984

3

Teaching Faith not like selling worldly

“The shining spark of truth cometh forth only after the clash of differing opinions.’’—‘Abdu’l-Bahá

The American Bahá’í welcomes letters to the editor on any topic of

general interest. The purpose of .

the “‘letters”” column is to allow a free and open exchange of ideas, never to derogate another’s opinion or attack anyone on a personal level.

Letters should be as brief as possible (a maximum of 250 words is’ suggested). Letters are subject to editing for length and style. Please address all letters to the Editor, The American Bahá’í, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, TL 60091.

. To the Editor:

Concerning the letter from a salesman (May 1984) about dealing with the lack of enrollments: I don’t believe that teaching the Faith of God is quite the same thing as selling worldly goods.

Sure, we Baha’is could all learn to refine our techniques of presenting the Faith to the people with whom we come in contact in our daily lives.

Many of us, including myself, could use more confidence in our teaching efforts, but I’m not so sure that this is something that is a directly-teachable frame of mind.

I believe that ‘‘enrollment-getting”’ is not a learned skill, but rather the result of a deep and spiritual process and state of being. The following quote by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, from ‘‘The Individual and Teaching,”’ is pertinent here:

“The intention of the teacher must be pure, his heart independent, his spirit attracted, his thought at peace, his resolution Jirm, his magnanimity exalted and in the love of God a shining torch. Should he become as such, his sanctified breath will even afSect the rock; otherwise there will be no result whatsoever.””

These are qualities that as individuals we must acquire, but I do not believe they can be taught except by example.

The guidance we need to help us learn how to teach the Faith with confidence is in the writings themselves, such as “The Individual and Teaching,’’ “‘Victory Promises,”” and the Tablets of the Divine Plan.

Duane P. Dawson San Antonio, Texas

To the Editor:

Banking and savings institutions have recently begun offering a variety of new services, one of which is called, among other things, automatic check withdrawal, in which checks for a predetermined amount are sent out to designated receivers on pre-set days.

This service is meant for regularly occurring, unchanging bills such as rent, car payments, mortgages, and so forth.

Obviously, the service can be used also for donations to the Fund, and such donations will then be ‘‘forget-proof’’ and dependable for National.

Unfortunately, my bank cannot be set up to send the checks every Baha’i month, as it is still on the “old world’? calendar, so twice monthly is as close as it could get, but your bank may be more flexible. #

So for a one-time commitment, when you set the payments up, you can support the Fund for as long as you stay financially solvent.

If your bank doesn’t offer this service, you can support the Fund the old-fashioned way, or change banks, as I couldn’t think of a better reason to switch than to support the Fund. Michael Tabor Fort Lauderdale, Florida

To the Editor:

Some time, I’m not certain when, during the nearly 11 years I’ve been a Baha’i, I coined the term ‘‘statistical religion.”

What is statistical religion? It is a constant emphasis on numbers of enrollments, percentages of participation in the Fund, numbers of communities opened, numbers of Assemblies formed, and other numerical goals, goals, goals.

It turns me off.

Julian Briggs Cloverdale, California

To the Editor:

For those who may find stimulation from new ideas, let us address some of our problem areas.

In the National Assembly’s letter forthe Feast of ‘Ala we read: “It is inexplicable yet true that some friends do not see the connection between material sacrifice through contributions to the National Fund, teaching the Faith, and the inner life of the individual.””

THE WORD ‘“‘inexplicable’’ becomes less mysterious when we see the over-all picture from a more objective viewpoint.

Our basic handicap is that our involvement in the Faith has not yet caused us to change ourselves quite as much as we would like to believe. This is difficult to accept because we have not learned to truly ‘‘know”’ ourselves very well.

These unfortunate circumstances spring partly from our preoccupation with slightly more materialistic matters than with inner life.

Thus, we are more readily “turned on’’ by ideas about a new radio station than by the ‘‘deeper’ aspects of individual spiritual growth.

And the ‘‘inexplicable’’ becomes crystal clear when we realize that the real ‘‘relationship’’ is such that once our inner spiritual state becomes more fully matured, the other problems we face will also be solved. There will be a bet ter balance.

Much of this is related to deepening. Yet our deepening sessions often seem reminiscent of traditional ‘Bible study groups””—being little more than memorizing, or familiarizing ourselves with the proper use of words.

Eventually, we realize that a true change within ourselves is not imarily the acquisition of new ideas, feelings or behavior, but rather a transformation in the ‘innermost essence’’ of our being.

‘What we need is a deeper capacity for understanding, dedication, love, responsibility, and other spiritual qualities of that nature.

Merely learning new ideas does not do that. A much more rigorous training and guidance is re

quired. But there is hope for the future. Our present difficulties may be the fire of purification. There is a growing possibility that a ‘‘new race of men’’ may well be germinating within our own ranks. C.M. Gordon Denton, Texas

To the Editor:

So often Local Spiritual Assemblies make gift subscriptions to schools and other organizations in their area and do not know whether or not they are appreciated.

We would like to share a recent experience our community had.

For several years we have been sending a gift subscription to World Order magazine to the library at the University of California at Santa Cruz and had no feedback.

Somehow, by accident, the subscription lapsed and no one in our community noticed—but the university did.

We received a call from the periodicals department asking us if we could possibly continue the subscription as they did not have the funds to continue it themselves but really appreciated the magazine and wished to continue receiving it.

Naturally, at our next Assembly meeting it was happily agreed that the Assembly would renew the subscription and make a greater effort to see that it does not get forgotten in the future.

It sure is nice to know from time to time that we are appreciated.

S. Ruth De Fay Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of Santa Cruz, California

To the Editor:

The May issue of The American Baha’i gave me a delightful opportunity to review my Spanish.

After reading the Ridvan message from the Universal House of Justice on Page 1, I found the Spanish translation on Page 25.

Knowing the content from the English version, it wasn’t too hard

to follow the reading in the Span-_

ish version.

It does take a bit of study, but there it is. And having the same message in both languages saves many a trip to the dictionary.

I don’t know Persian, but could anyone who does read Persian have the joy of reading the message in English in the same way?

Violet Wuerfel Clark Ann Arbor, Michigan

To the Editor:

“Let not a man glory in this, that he loves his country; let him rather glory in this, that he loves his kind.””

This profound statement by Baha’u’llah, if practiced by the people of the world, can by itself create world unity and peace.

We in the U.S. have immense material comfort, freedom and opportunity. But are we aware of the status of the rest of the world, especially the Third World countries?

And if we know about the malnutrition, hunger, illiteracy, economic inequality and other problems of the Third World, are we as Baha’is willing to take an active role in solving them?

With the establishment of the Office of Social and Economic Development, the Universal House of Justice has demonstrated its concern for the Third World. What is needed now is devoted and concerned individuals to follow up on the Supreme Body’s concern and actually pioneer to places where they are needed the most.

T am specifically asking our Baha’i_ medical doctors, nutritionists, engineers, agriculturists, teachers, university professors,

goods

and other specialists to consider immediately pioneering to an underdeveloped country where they can teach the principles of the Faith and address the spiritual needs of the people while providing.the desperately needed medical, educational and other needs of those souls.

I think this is a great way to prove to the world and to ourselves that we see this planet as one home, and that we are directly working for the achievement of peace, justice and unity in our world.

Paydm Foroughi Logan, Utah

To the Editor:

Thad always hoped that my first letter to The American Baha’i would be profound, thought-provoking and inspirational. _

Well, perhaps next time, but for now I have a useful hint to offer: 19 issues of The American Baha’i fit perfectly into a shredded wheat box. Covered with paper, they store nicely on a shelf.

Not exactly a miracle, but I thought it was worth sharing.

Teresa Olander Navajo Indian Reservation Shonto, Arizona

To the Editor:

Regarding the use of ‘‘enrollment-getting Bahá’ís’’ as mentioned in the May issue, and in keeping with the clear desire of the Universal House of Justice for us to sustain a lively and productive consultation, I offer a differing perspective:

AS A physician, I find many

See LETTERS Page 28

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be EE TE SSE EE RS SP eT LT LE Ee SE IN ET

[Page 4]

The American Baha'i

ISABELLA BRITTINGHAM

Referring to Isabella D. Brittingham, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá_ said, “*..,her services which she renders to this Cause are always before my eyes. They are written in the Book of the Kingdom, in the Heavenly Books, and will never be forgotten...

MRS. Brittingham’s te: efforts were never-ending. Whenever someone she was teaching declared his or her belief in Baha*u’ll4h, Mrs. Brittingham would send that person’s declaration of faith to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

At one time, the Master laughingly referred to her as ‘*...our Baha’i-maker.”’

Born February 21, 1852, Isabella was among those who attended the first Baha’i classes ever held in New York City in 1898.

‘Three years later, she made the first of her two pilgrimages to visit “Abdu’l-Bahá in ‘Akká.

After returning to the U.S. in September 1901, she wrote an essay entitled ‘‘The Revelation of Baha’u’llah’’ which was published the following year by the Bahá’í Publishing Society in Chicago.

Her efforts were highly praised by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Who wrote:

“‘BLESSED art thou that thou hast compiled in the name of thy Lord, the Clement, a treatise comprising evident proofs regarding the appearance of the Kingdom of God in this sublime age.””

Dr. Susan Moody, a physician who spent many years as a Baha’i pioneer to Iran, expressed gratitude to Mrs. Brittingham for the deepening instruction she gave her in 1903.

Isabella’s husband, James Brittingham, was a firm and active Baha’i, but because of his work in a railroad company’s New York City office, was not often able to accompany his wife on her many teaching trips around the country.

In 1919, Mrs. Brittingham listed the places where she had been engaged in teaching the Faith.

“T have raised the call of the Kingdom in Arizona, Southern

See BRITTINGHAM Page 27

Louhelen

Continued From Page 1

tional Spiritual Assembly, Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh, was unable to attend the conference as he was preparing testimony for a June 26 appearance before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in Washington, D.C.

THE conference was begun Friday morning with a ‘“‘brainstorming”’ session chaired by the National Assembly secretary, Robert Henderson.

From that session emerged the framework within which smaller workshop groups would consult Friday afternoon and all day Saturday, developing plans and proposals to be presented to plenary sessions Friday and Saturday evenings.

The over-all goal toward which consultation was directed was clarification of the Campaign of Unified Action.

The six workshop groups, each of which included at least one member of the National Assembly, and in which the Couns and Auxiliary Board members were active participants, consulted on three ‘a) vision, (b) process, and (c) structures, roles and relationships. The first of these, vision, included as its subtopics (1) the destiny of America and conquest of the planet, (2) Bahá’u’lláh—the Source, (3) unprecedented growth, and (4) appreciating and achieving unity in diversity.

UNDER process, the friends consulted on (1) reliance on the Creative Word, (2) expansion and consolidation, (3) releasing the potential of the individual, (4) communication, (5) learning from experience, and (6) social and economic development.

The third topic, that of structures, roles and relationships, had as its subtopics (1) the individual, (2) the family, (3) the community, (4) the Local Spiritual Assembly, and (5) national committees and agencies including the Counsellors, the National Spiritual Asam

One of the half-dozen workshops at the Louhelen Conference. James F. Nelson, chairman of the Ni Spiritual Assembly,

Above left: Linda Giardina, chairman of the National Education Committee, takes a turn as ‘secretary’ during the Louhelen conference. Above right: Counsellor

sembly, the Auxiliary Boards and their assistants.

Each workshop group presented oral reports at the plenary sessions and compiled comprehensive written reports that were entered into a computer and compiled for the National Assembly and other conference participants before the close of the meeting on Sunday morning.

The positive feeling that emerged from the conference was clearly evident at each of its sessions, and is reflected in the National Spiritual Assembly’s letter to the American Baha’i community:

“Our deliberations together at Louhelen gave us a new appreciation of our destiny, reaffirmed by the Universal House of Justice when it addressed us: ‘You are a community of victors; you occupy the front ranks of Bahá’u’lláh’s invincible army of light; indeed, you must remain in the vanguard of its thrust.’ ””

second from right facing the camera; Counsellor Sarah Martin Pereira is at the right (in dark jacket) with back to came!

Farzam Arbab makes a point. Below: Dr. Alberta Deas, director of the Louis Gregory Institute, cuts a special ‘WLGI cake’ in honor of the station’s debut. The cake was

BAHA’I youth, so vital to the success of any campaign, were very much a part of the conference, which in fact was preceded by another gathering May 23-24 at Louhelen at which 35 youth from. the U and Canada met with Counsellors Arbab and Schechter to study the writings of the Guardian concerning the destiny of youth in the North American community and to discuss their unique role in helping that community to win final victory in the Seven Year Plan.

From that meeting came the broad outline of a new “‘youth movement,’’ which is not a new campaign but rather a revitalization of the Baha’i youth in North America ‘‘to support and reinforce the teaching effort and the winning of the goals of the Seven Year Plan.””

Details of the ‘movement’’ were presented by members of the

‘a, prepared by the school’s food service manager, Barbara Griffith

(left), and her assistant, Sandy Debertz._

National Youth Committee at S: urday evening’s plenary session. The National Spiritual Assembly will use the proposals formulated at the Louhelen conference as a basis for its ongoing consultation on the Campaign of U fied Action ‘‘and its implications for the achievement of the remaii ing goals of the Seven Year Plan

Hartford fund-raiser

On April 21, the Baha’is of West Hartford, Connecticut, observed the first day of Ridvan and celebrated the re-formation of their Assembly with a ‘‘day of sacrifice.’’

Baha’is from Winsted, South Windsor, New Britain, Hartford, Enfield and Newington were present at a potluck fund-raiser and auction sponsored by the West Hartford Assembly at which $643 was raised and sent to the National Fund.

[Page 5]THE FUNDS

July 1984

5

Friends are urged to establish habit of giving regularly to Fund

The Treasurer’s Office is aware of a concern in the community about the level of fund-raising or Fund-oriented activity last year.

AND since enrollments were down during the same period, some ‘have suggested that emphasis on the one has affected the other,

Whether or not this theory is true is not known and perhaps cannot be known.

The Treasurer’s Office reminds the friends of what is known: anything done to excess will result in an imbalance.

In the Baha’i Faith, we seek moderation—a moderate balance of activities, lifestyle, community—for, as Baha’u’llah has told us, ‘‘Whatsoever passeth beyond the limits of moderation will cease to exert a beneficial influence.”

If a local community finds itself devoting all or most of its time to

only one facet of Baha’i life, whether it be deepening, teaching, administration or fund-raising, something else will surely suffer.

With regard to the health of the National Fund, we know that the ultimate solution is a constant flow of funds from both the individual and the community.

The Treasurer’s Office thus encourages the friends to establish the Aabit of regular monthly contributions so that the need for emergency fund-raising activities at year’s end will be eliminated.

It is perfectly all right to be enthusiastically involved in a temporary activity, putting extra effort and time into a single project or direction. But the success of our lives as Baha’is depends on a “‘well-rounded,”” moderate approach to our many privileges and

Summer has begun, and many of us are enjoying a break from our usual routine. The Office of the Treasurer thought it might be stimulating during this time of general relaxation to test the community’s mental agility with a “pop quiz.’’ See how well you can do!

Mid-Summer Wake Up Quiz

1. The Australian nation was described by Shoghi Effendi as being persevering and determined. Which nation did ‘Abdu’l-Bahá describe as ‘equipped and empowered to accomplish that which will adorn the pages of history to become the envy of the world and be blest in both the East and the West for the triumph of its peoWN a ge Vt ee ee es 2. Which people are called the “apostles’’ of Bahá’u’lláh?

3. Japan is recognized as the nation that will play a large role in the spiritualization of the Chinese

responsibilities.

Since then, the Treasurer’s Office has received letters and phone calls of inquiry and has noted that some individuals are trying to use the law, as they understand it, as a method or standard for giv ing to the Fund.

Law of Ḥuqúqu’lláh doesn’t yet apply to western world

There has been a great deal of interest in the Law of Huqiqu’lláh since the Hand of the Cause of God Zikru’lláh Khadem called on those at the National Convention to supplicate the Ur iversal House of Justice to apply that law to all believers in the American Baha’i community.

The eagerness with which these believers are viewing Huququ’ ll4h and their desire to know more about its application are commendable. But the friends are advised not to concern themselves with

“figuring out”’ the Law of Huququ’ lah at this time

When the Uni

because it still does not apply to the western world.

versal House of Justice sees fit to

apply this law of God to the American Bahá’ís, a

full and complete explanation will be provided.

VIE campaign hits summer slump

Contributions to the National Baha’i Fund by District

‘Starting Block’ Info Current Month Info (Jamal)

District Name Membership Number of — Percentage of

as of 5/4/84 participants participation Alabama S/Florida NW 349 — 10 3.0 338 12 3.6 Alabama N 307 21 68 306 20 6.5 Arizona N 941 SI 5.4 928 7 6.1 Arizona S 410 21 5.1 395 20 5.1 Arkansas 476 24 5.0 470 4 $1 California C No. 1 2,722 1907.0 2634 168 6.4 California C No. 2 445 40 9.0 442 41 93 Califor 1 585 70 12.0 588 67 11.4 California N No. 2 389 4 10.5 384 51 13.3 California S No. 1 2,709 180 6.6 2682 160 6.0 Cc nia S No. 2 1,158 112 9.7 1145 154 13.4 California S No. 3 441 42 95 449 42 94 California S No. 4 981 82 8.4 949 6 8.0 Colorado NE 483 61 12.6 458 42 9.2 Colorado SE 181 15 8.3 179 2 12.3 Colorado W 195 23 118, 181 1s 8.3 Connecticut 471 s7 a 457 49 10.7 DelMarVa 292 15 $.1 290 2 1.6 Florida C 382 19 5.0 387 24 6.2 Florida N 284 19 6.7 286 17 3.9 Florida SE 1,113 54 49 1062 59 5.5 Florida SW 495 43 87 492 61 12.4 Georgia NE 339 48 14.2 330 39, 11.8 Georgia NW 876 7 19 862 16 1.9 Georgia S 1,158 8 0.7 1175 uN 0.9 Idaho N/Washington E473 63 13.3 480 61 127 Idaho S 183 21 1s 188 20 10.6 Illinois N No. 1 596 32 8&7 584 46 19 Illinois N No. 2 1,148 143 12.5 1159 135 11.6 Iinois S 742 68 9.2 705 58 8.2 Indiana S41 6 12.2 $22 46 8.8 lowa 383 63 16.4 366 SI 13.9 Kansas 340 35 10.3 345 32 93

Kentucky 21 25 10.8 229 tO 282 ot para sak

See VIE CHART Page 26

as a SSS SSS SSS Ss SS SSS SSS SS SSS SSS SS SE

mainland. Which continent is ‘in the eyes of the one true God, the land wherein the splendors of His light will be revealed, where the mysteries of His Faith shall be unveiled 3:22) 77 nse sear BS

4. The American continent ___ lead all nations spiritually. Which of the following words correctly completes the above statement made by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá?

(a) can; (b) should; (c) might; (d) will; (e) could.

Did that last question give you a clue as to how to answer the others? America is the object of all these wonderful promises found in the Writings—the continent that will lead all nations spiritually.

During May, Peter Khan, a Counsellor member of the International Teaching Centre, crossed the country drawing these statements and many others to our attention as he sought to remind us of our glorious destiny. His com Highest Percentage Participation

. Nevada, Southern

. Pennsylvania, Western Wisconsin, N/Michigan Nebraska

North Dakota

Minnesota, Northern

. Vermont

. Maine

9. Iowa

10. New Hampshire

11. Louisiana, Northern

12. Califonia, Southern No. 2 13. Wisconsin, Southern

14, California, Northern No. 2 15. New York, Western

16. Idaho, N/Washington E 17. Florida, Southwest

18. Colorado, Southeast

19. Tennessee, Eastern

Sr ayeeye

Here’s a mid-summer ‘wake up quiz’

ments whetted an appetite in many of his listeners to take a closer look at the Baha’i teachings on the destiny of America.

Coincidentally, the Office of the Treasurer has, within the last year, prepared a study course entitled ‘‘America’s Spiritual Destiny.””

Until this time it has been available only through the National Treasurer’s Representative program. Now, with the cooperation of Counsellor Khan and the Baha’i Publishing Trust, the course will be available to any individual or community who would like to pursue this important topic.

The Publishing Trust will offer a special package that includes a cassette tape of Dr. Khan’s talk at the House of Worship, the course “America’s Spiritual Destiny,” and a copy of The Advent of Divine Justice at a greatly reduced

See QUIZ Page 26

Most Improved Participation

1. Oregon, Eastern

2, Nevada, Southern

3. Texas, Central No. 2

4. South Carolina, South No. 2 5. New Mexico, Northern

6. South Carolina, Central

7. South Carolina, South No. 1 8. DelMarVa

9. Colorado, Southeast 10. South Carolina, Western 11. Florida, Southwest 12. South Carolina, East No. 1 13. California, Southern No. 2 14. Navajo/Hopi 15. North Dakota 16. Georgia, Southern 17. Texas, Southern 18. California, Northern No. 2 19. Maine

[Page 6]IGC: PIONEERING

The American Baha’i

6

Caribbean key area

Do you realize that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá was addressing you as an Apostle of Baha’u’llah in the Tablets of the Divine Plan?

When our beloved Master used the term ‘‘Apostles,’’ He was referring only to the American Baha’is, who are charged with the primary responsibility for bringing about the reconstruction of society and establishing an everlasting peace.

OUR TASK is no less than to help usher in a world civilization and the Kingdom of God on carth.

America’s destiny is to lead all nations spiritually. To be able to

do this, Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, and Shoghi Effendi conferred spiritual powers on us Amer

icans to enhance our natural attributes, and called us fearless, tenacious, efficient, with foresight, organizing ability, and enthusiastic eagerness.

We have a spectacular destiny, but we must work hard to bring it about. Our task now is to fill all of the goals given to us by the Universal House of Justice.

When we do this, we know that we are carrying out the Will of God for this moment history.

As part of an ongoing series, we will describe this month various goal islands in the Caribbean. Nine islands are to receive 14 pioneers, but we will leave descriptions of Barbados and Dominica for a future issue of The American Baha’i.

MOST people think all Caribbean islands are much the same. This is not so. All are different—culturally, politically and socially. All, however, have a strong British background, where English is spoken.

One of our pioneers writes from St. Lucia: ‘*What strikes me as a young person is that there aren’t more retired people in the islands. We have fabulous beaches, beautiful weather, and cheap living.

“You can have a live-in maid for about $50 U.S. a month. Health care is about 1930-ish by U.S. standards. Even if your health isn’t good, you have to die somewhere. Why not at a post?

“‘Life is really wonderful here. When you think of the dear souls who are pioneering in a dusty plain in Africa, while you’re sipping a coconut crush under a palm tree at the beach, you can feel

U.S. goals in Caribbean

Cayman Leeward Islands

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downright guilty.

“I want to comment on the weather. We expected a lot worse. Coming from Arizona, we expected the humidity to be a problem. It wasn’t at all. The moderate temperature and trade winds make the humidity hardly even noticeable.

“‘We just went through the rainy season, which wasn’t what we expected either. The rains tend to be hard but brief. They usually come at night. Days are wonderfully sunny with puffy clouds, just like in the travel brochures.

“‘Most people here eat fruits and vegetables with fish and chicken for protein. You can eat steak and potatoes, but it will cost more, even though less than in the U.S. All the food is fresh and naturally grown.”’

Bahamas-San Salvador Island (1 pioneer). The Bahamas is a parliamentary democracy of the British Commonwealth, which has been independent since 1974. San Salvador is a small, flat, sandy island with a population of about 900 and one Baha’i, a pioneer from Canada who arrived a few months ago.

Of all the goal islands, this is probably the most isolated and rustic, but the people are friendly, polite, open, kind and questioning. There is almost no crime.

The pioneer who goes there needs to be able to live a quiet, simple life with few amenities. The only jobs available might be for teachers K-12 with good qualifications. Half the teachers there now are not Bahamian, and half the islanders are unemployed.

There is no hotel or guest house, but houses and cottages can be rented. A two-bedr cottage with living room, ing room, kitchen, bath and all util ities included is $590 U.S. a month,

Teachers hired by the government receive free housing in nice cottages on the beach. Food obtained locally costs about $30 U.S. a week,

There are two small grocery stores, no clothing store, no canned goods. Occasional trips to Nassau ($96 round trip) or Miami ($96 round trip from Nassau) are necessary for buying necessities and renewing one’s tourist visa.

A traveling doctor is available once a week, but dental work and medicines must be obtained in Nassau or Miami. One can always charter a plane for quick trips off the island. A bike or scooter is helpful for getting around.

It is important to consult the International Goals Committee before going to the Bahamas or any other island, to obtain more complete data and the latest visa information for Baha’is.

Grenada (2 pioneers). This lush tropical island is mountainous in the center, turning to forest and

in winning goals of Plan

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beaches. It has an interim government composed of a nine-member council of non-political administrators mandated to bring into being a ‘“Westminster’’ ocratic government by the end of 1984,

The National Spiritual Assembly of Grenada was elected for the

first time at Ridvan. There are about 400 adult believers in a population of about 110,000.

The National Assembly’s present goal is to attain 1 per cent of the population as Bahá’ís. The people are friendly, open and receptive to the Faith, but as yet, many think the Faith is merely another sect of Christianity.

The kinds of pioneers needed are stable families who can be good examples of family life and structure; retired people in good health who are willing to live in remote areas; people with skills that are not available on the island; single people willing to blend in with the culture and find local spouses. Iranian Baha'is would have no problem settling here. One Iranian family already has been granted citizenship.

Skills most needed include teachers (especially science and math), doctors, nurses, nutritionists, administrators, agriculturists, technicians, and those in the tourist industry. Private businesses may soon be encouraged by the government.

A family of 3-4 could manage on about $400 a month U.S., but if the children are of school age, school fees would have to be considered. Fairly good private and government-run schools (British)

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Rent for a three-bedroom house is about $200 U.S. a month; food is $150 a month, utilities $50 a month for a family of three. Conditions are generally good, with plentiful food and good water.

Health care is free, with two hospitals, a public dental clinic and two or three private ones. Health care is poor, however, owing to a lack of supplies and equipment. It is best to make an exploratory trip to find out about the culture and way of life before uprooting a family and pioneering there.

One pioneer writes: ‘“‘Grenada is the most beautiful place on earth. The people are warm and generous. The weather is pleasant. A better place to retire is unimaginable; there’s even a nine-hole golf course. The Baha’i community is radiant and motivated. Coming here is like stepping into a beehive of Baha’i work. The rewards are beyond words.’”

Jamaica-Cayman Islands (2 pioneers). This is a British Crown colony, internally self-governing but under British rule in international matters. There is an appointed governor to represent the Queen in the islands.

There are three small, mainly flat islands about 200 miles northwest of Jamaica. The lifestyle is much like it is in Florida, but the cost of living is about one-third higher.

The islands are very pro-U.S. Retired people are welcome. Excellent schools (British system) from kindergarten through high school, and good medical and dental fe are available.

ATLANTIC OCEAN

THE CARIBBEAN

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The Baha’ community consists of about-15 believers, and there is a great need for consolidation, teaching, deepening and Baha’i administrative knowledge.

Single women definitely should not go alone to the Caymans, but married couples of any age would be helpful if they are steadfast, self-motivated, independent and deepened in the Faith.

Expatriates can own property, but businesses must be 60 per cent Cayman-owned. Foreign investment is encouraged. Any kind of well-equipped repair shop is needed, to fix outboard and inboard motors, electronic equipment, etc.

Nurses, teachers and other health- and education-related jobs are available. Accountants, insurance people, bankers and legal people are needed. However, work must be obtained before arriving in the islands.

A modern automatic telephone system links the islands to the world, enabling Cayman operators to dial numbers worldwide 24 hours a day. Telex is also available, :

“Island fever’? is often experienced by North Americans who spend any unbroken length of time in the islands when they find there is nowhere to go. The largest of the islands is 20 miles by eight miles.

Pioneers should be dedicated to pioneering and teaching, not just “escapi to a new way of life. The Caymanians are a deeply religious people who identify with the U.S. more than any other Carib See GOALS Page 17

bush at the shorel th lovely are available. e

[Page 7]YOUTH NEWS

duly 1984

7

Lessil Richards, a 16-ye: member of the Bahdé’i community of Challis, Idaho, has been chosen one of four boys to represent his area at Boys’ State. To qualify, the young men must maintain a certain grade point/average and be nominated by their teachers as potential leaders. They are then judged by members of the local ‘American Legion, Lions Club and high school staff to whom they deliver a 10-minute speech. The boys will participate for one week at the state capital and have a chance to compete for Boys’ Nation in Washington, D.C. Lessil, who treasurer of the South Idaho District Youth Committee, spent 10 years pioneering in South West Africa with his parents, and has been in an English-speaking school for only the past two years. The family plans to pioneer to the Caribbean this fall, and Lessil is looking forward to beginning the phase of his education there.

Brian Walker, 2 Bahá’í from Littleton, Colorado, who recently graduated with honors from Heritage High School, took part this year in a nationwide competition for high school students in all areas of work, placing first among students from Colorado and 14th in the nation in engineering/drafting. Heritage High placed first in Colorado. Brian plans this fall to attend the University of Colorado in Boulder.

Youth ‘movement’ energized at Louhelen meeting

On May 23-24 a group of 35 Baha’i youth from the U.S. and Canada gathered at the Louhelen Baha’i School in Michigan at the invitation of Counsellors Farzam Arbab and Fred Schechter to conduct in-depth consultation on the revitalization of the youth movement in the Faith in North America.

THE participants gained direction and focus from the Ridvan 1984 message from the Universal House. of Justice to the Baha’is of the world which states:

“Baha’i youth, now rendering exemplary and devoted service in the forefront of the army of life, must be encouraged, even while equipping themselves for future service, to devise and execute their own teaching plans among their contemporaries.””

After many hours of discussion about the responsibility of the North American Baha’i community to execute its divinely appointed n, the youth designed a specific plan of action which received the endorsement of the Counsellors and the National Assemblies of Canada and the U.S.

The ‘‘movement’’ they devised is not a new program or campaign but rather a ‘‘rebirth’? of the movement that captured the hearts and souls of the Dawnbreakers during the early years of the Faith in Persia.

At that time, 20,000 Babis and Baha’is offered their lives through the inspiration of the Bab and Bahda’u’llah, and with a unity of purpose and a clear and distinct vision of the destiny of the infant Faith of God, sacrifices were made and the Faith grew.

IT IS toward the revitalization

5th Disney World conference set

The fifth annual Baha’i Youth Conference at Disney World near Orlando, Florida, has been scheduled for December 27-31 under the sponsorship of the National Baha’i Youth Committee.

Youth and the young at heart are encouraged to make their plans now to attend this important gathering which is expected to accommodate from 350-400 participants.

Registration information will be printed in upcoming issues of The American Bahá’í as well as in “Youth Hotline,’’ the monthly newsletter for Bahá’í youth.

The theme of this year’s con

Above: Bahá’í youth who met May 23-24 at the Louhelen Baha'i School to revitalize the ‘youth movement’ in North America are shown with Counsellors Farzam Arbab and Fred Schechter; Dr. Dwight Allen, a member of the U.S. National Spiritual Assembly; Dr. Jane Faily, a member of the National Assembly of Canada; Karen Pritchard, secretary of the National Youth Committee; and Cap Cornwell, secretary of the National Teaching Committee. Right: Youth take time out for songs and fellowship.

of that spirit and process that the youth of North America are now directed.

The movement is expected to spread across the continent as young Baha’is from Canada and

ference is ‘‘Let Deeds, Not Words, Be Your Adorning,’’ and will feature discussions and workshops on Baha’i service.

Visits to the Epcot Center or the Magic Kingdom at Disney World are a part of the conference schedule, and a children’s program will be offered on a cooperative basis.

Plan now to attend ... bring the family and come prepared to teach. A pre- and post-conference teaching program will be offered.

the U.S. participate in many teaching projects this summer. These victories will be celebrated August 24-28 at the International Youth Conference being held under the sponsorship of the

YOUth still have time to register for Canadian Youth Conference

Yes, you may still be able to attend the International Youth Gonference being held this summer in Canada, and NO, it’s not too late to register!

The gathering will be held August 24-28 at the University of Western Ontario in London, Ontario, and its theme, ‘‘If Only You Knew,” focuses on the role of youth in the growth of the Cause.

Special guests will include the Hand of the Cause of God A.A. Furitan, Counsellor Farzam Arbab, Auxiliary Board member Robert Harris, and many others.

Due to the efforts of many, summer teaching projects have been completed or are well under way in many places throughout the U.S. But don’t despair. It’s not too late to get involved!

Projects in Wanblee, South Dakota (at the Pine Ridge Res

Several summer teaching projects need your support

ervation of the Sioux Nation); Rochester, New York; Southern California; northwest Washington state; eastern Oregon; South Carolina, and southwest Georgia are either continuing or haven’t yet begun.

These projects need your

support. For dates, places, contact persons, and other. information, please phone the National Youth Committee office in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 305-462-1919, today!

Remember: YOUth can move the world!

Canadian Baha’i community.

The attendees at the historic Louhelen gathering pledged to welcome at least 222 new Bahda’is into the Faith before that conference.

Registration forms are available from the National Youth Committee. Please write to the committee at Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315, or Phone 305-462-1919. Or you may contact the Baha’i National Center of Canada at 416-899-8168.

Early registration is a must, and you are urged to make your travel plans early.

A REMINDER TO BAHA’i COLLEGE CLUBS: Monies raised by college clubs can only be used for college club activities. They cannot be donated to Local Spiritual Assemblies, the National Fund, or any other institution or committee associated with the -| Faith.

If there are any questions about this policy, please contact the National Youth Committee at 305-462-1919.

Nereis SSIES ENEMIES TRB ASOT SA SOR ERE A ESS 5

[Page 8]* Baha'i Schools

EDUCATION

+ Assembly Development Program

• Brilliant Star (Child’s Way) Magazine

• Local Education Adviser Program

• Personal Tr

formation Program

The American Baha’i

Family Unity Night (Fun)

FIFTH WEEK OF JULY/FIRST WEEK OF AUGUST: KAMAL/PERFECTION. Thought for the week: ‘Kam, kam; ruz bih ruz.’’ (‘Abdu’l-Bahá) Prayer: Steadfastness, p. 167. Lesson: Read and discuss one or more of the suggested lesson materials. Keep in mind that the perfection of anything takes consistent effort until it is a natural habit. Think of it as

a process as well as a state of being. 1. Arabic Hidden Words No. 12, No. 31. 2, Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 115. 3. Some

Answered Questions, pp. 235-37; also p. 6, ‘Therefore, it, becomes Activity: 1. An artist/sculptor perfects a design in slow, ‘careful increments. Think of yourself thusly. Think of a small step toward perfection that you could take this week (keep toys picked up, say a teaching prayer each morning, etc.). Have each person write it down as a goal to achieve.

May share the results at next week’s FUN. 2. Perfect a paper airplane.

Select a design, color or decorate your plane. Test fly it, perfect it if it needs correction. (a) Blind landing: place a target such as a rock or stick if outside, or a book if inside. Each person, in turn, is blindfolded, and tries to see how close he can land his lane to the target. Now try it the blindfold off! (b) Airborne record: Have each family member fly his or her airplane to see which one can stay aloft the longest. (c) Upside-down flight: Have each person fly his airplane upside-down and see which one goes the farthest. Refreshments: Fruit basket upset. Everyone chooses a favorite fruit. Go to the store to buy and bring home, Each prepares own fruit and add fruit to salad bowl. Ummmm-good!

SECOND WEEK OF AUGUST: DETACHMENT (Krishna’s birthday, August 4). Thought for the week: O Son of Being! Busy not thyself with this world, for with fire we test the gold, and with gold We test Our servants, (Bahá’u’ll4h) Prayer: Detachment, p. 56. Lesson: Read and discuss one or more of the suggested lesson materials. Assess personal attachments to material possessions, and the ‘‘names’” (kind, happy) attached to our personality/character by others. How can we be more detached? Through pure humility? 1. Tablets of Baha’u’llah, p. 155, p. 159. 2. Read about Krishna from Divine Symphony, pp. 7-19. 3. Synopsis and Codification of the Kitsb-i-Aqdas, p. 16 (No. 10, 2nd paragraph). 4. Gleanings, p. 319, No. CXLIX. 5. Persian Hidden Words, end pp. 51-52. 6. Arabic Hidden Words, No. 8, No. 16. Activity: 1. Go for a family walk or jog in a new place or route you don’t frequent. Come back and talk about the things you saw, smelled, heard. How many new things did each one notice? 2. Make a home band out of pot lids, wooden spoons, comb and paper kazoo, etc. Play along with your favorite music or march around while playing to the music. Refreshments: Watermelon. While eating or after, have a watermelon seed-spitting contest—outside, of course! Who can spit his seeds the farthest?

THIRD WEEK OF AUGUST: ASMA/NAMES. Thought for the week: ““A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches.”” Prayer: Spiritual qualities, p. 141, or praise and gratitude, p. 122: Lesson: Read and discuss one or more of the suggested lesson materials. How do we know God? How can we perfect the attributes of God in ourselves, and strive for true detachment? (Remember the lessons from the last two weeks.) Labels on children can become self-fulfilling prophecy. 1. Gleanings, pp. 184-192, No. XCIII. 2. Kitáb-i-fqan, pp. 141-143, 3. Selections from the ‘Writings of the Bab, “Excerpts from the Dala’il-Sab’ih,”’ p. 125. 4. Selections from the Writings of the Bab, ‘Excerpts from the Kitab’i’ Asmá, p. 131. Activity: 1. The Names of God appear after most prayers. Make a list of as many of these Names and Attributes as you can. 2. Play “spin the bottle.’ Write on a slip of paper fun, simple activities like: stand on your head, make a funny face, tell about your favorite birthday, mime an animal for others to guess, etc. When the bottle is spun and stops, at you, pick a slip of paper and do as it says. 3. If the weather seems right, take the family swimming or perhaps dip your feet in a wading pool or run in a sprinkler. Refreshments: Enjoy fresh berries and cream.

FOURTH WEEK OF AUGUST: PRAYER. Thought for the week: “Life is fragile—handle with prayer.’” Prayer: Steadfastness, p. 161; Spiritual Qualities, p. 149; the Lord’s Prayer, Matthew 6:9-13. Lesson: Read and discuss one or more of the suggested lesson materials. Think of prayer as your personal communion with the Source of all creation, and your channel of assistance and guidance for your individual perfection as well as that of all mankind. 1. Selections from the Writings of the Bab, p. 78. 2. Kitab-i-fqén, p. 39. 3. Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, pp. 161-62. 4. Baha'i World Faith, p. 368, ‘Prayer Is Indispensable.”” 5. Vignettes, p. 133, No. 29; p. 131, No. 27; p. 130, No. 26. 6. ‘When People Pray Aloud’” by Ellen Walker, p. 28, Child’s Way, Jan./Feb. 1983. 7. Sing along with “We Are Baha'is” tape: Morning Prayer; Alláh’u’Abh4; Noon Day Prayer; © God, Guide Me. Activity: Since meal time prayer is not a Ba See FUN Page 9

1st national Baha’i Child Education Conference is held over Memorial Day weekend in Evanston

The first National Baha’i Child Education Conference was held May 26-27, the Memorial Day weekend, in the environs of the Baha’i National Center and the Mother Temple of the West.

TWO HUNDRED persons for whom the Baha’i education of children and youth is a personal priority participated in morning and afternoon workshops at Kendall College in Evanston, Illinois, and attended evening programs in Foundation Hall at the Baha’i House of Worship in Wilmette.

Workshop topics at the conference, which was sponsored by the National Education Committee,

included ‘‘Baha’i Youth Programs,’’ ‘‘Inter-Community Schools,” ‘‘Baha’i Curriculum

Development,” ‘‘LEAP’’ (Local Edueation Adviser Program), and a double workshop devoted to Baha’i; summer day school programs.

The last named topic included a video tape demonstration of strategies to teach Baha’ children how to be reverent and was entitled “Attracting the Heart.’’

The Saturday evening program in Foundation Hall included a public speaking demonstration by children followed by a talk entitled ‘Child Education’’ by Mrs. Nancy Mondschein of the Office of Community Administration at the National Center.

On Sunday evening, members of the National Education Committee who had just returned from a meeting with members of the National Spiritual Assembly, Counsellors, Auxiliary Board members and members of national committees and National Center staff at the Louhelen Baha’i School in Davison, Michigan, shared their experiences at Louhelen and addressed the topic of “Baha’i Identity.’”

THEY read to conference participants a message from the National Spiritual Assembly convey

Mrs. Nancy Mondschein of the Office of Community Administration addresses the conference.

Amber Smith, age 12, takes part in a children’s public speaking program presented by Mrs. Gayle Woolson, a Knight of Bahd’u’ll4h

ing its warmest greetings and best wishes for the success of the conference.

The question-and-answer period that followed the talks was concerned and lively. Refreshments, prepared by the Baha’is of Skokie, Illinois, were enjoyed by attendees after the Saturday and Sunday evening programs. .

A special feature of the conference was an activities fair which displayed curricular materials that had been developed by the friends in many areas of the country.

The National Education Committee plans to sponsor a National Child Education Conference every

two years, with regional conferences scheduled in alternate years.

Regional conferences will focus particularly on teacher skills and

(at podium). Seated are other young participants, Maia Ashby, age 7, and Jian Khodadad, 10.

on sharing curricular materials that have been developed by the friends. National conferences will address more general and fundamental issues of Baha’i child education in the national community with input from each of the several regions.

“You are the answer to many prayers,” Mrs. Mondschein told participants at the Saturday evening program.

The National Education Committee is pleased with the enthusjastic support given to the conference, both in attendance and quality of participation.

Friends from Canada prepared a map of the U.S. on which participants marked their home locations, and a majority of the 51 states was represented.

Volunteers help spruce up, refurbish Green Acre Baha’i School facilities

Many devoted friends of the Green Acre Baha’i School have volunteered their time and talents in recent months to help improve the school’s facilities.

BAHA’I Hall has a new ceiling of acoustic tile to go along with the four ceiling fans which came from a generous gift last fall.

The library has new sounddeadening insulation, attractive new wall paneling and new curtains in the bedrooms.

And the interior of the Schopflocher House has been spruced up by a large group of volunteers spearheaded by Mary and Robert Hatcher. They’ve put up new wallpaper, painted the woodwork, placed new lamps in the rooms and arranged for new carpeting.

The building, named in honor of the Hand of the Cause of God Fred Schopflocher, is getting some professional attention too.

The roof has been re-shingled, and in the late summer and fall the entire house will be repainted and,,

(ee

for the first time, will be insulated and have new combination storm windows,

“The Green Acre Council extends its gratitude to the donors of the gifts and to all the volunteers,”” says school administrator Richard Grover. ‘‘There is much more work to do, and other people, especially those with carpentry or painting skills, should contact the school.

“We can provide room and board,”” he adds, ‘‘and Green Acre is a lovely place to spend a weekend or a week of vacation.””

Bahá’í National Center Office Honrs 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Central Time) Monday—Friday

Phone 312-869-9039 1

[Page 9]a EDUCATION

duly 1984

A Conference on Social and Economic Development was held June 1-3 at the Louhelen Baha’i School in Michigan under the auspices of the Association for Baha’i Studies Midwestern Regional Committee.

ONE HUNDRED thirty-eight Baha’is from Canada and the U.S. took part in the three-day gathering whose speakers included Counsellor Fred Schechter; Dr. Jane Faily, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly of Canada; Paul Ojermark, director of the Social and Economic Development Unit of the Baha’i International Community and consultant to the UN Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO); and Frank Lucatelli, an architect in private practice. 5

On Sunday morning, participants were divided into discussion

groups to consider ways in which Baha’i communities in North America can respond to the message -of October 20, 1983, from the Universal House of Justice concerning social and economic development.

One of the groups discussed ways in which Baha’i communities in North America can contribute to development work in the Third World.

Dr. Faily spoke twice, on “Spiritual Foundations of Social and Economic Development’”’ and “The Canadian Baha’i International Development Services (CBIDS).””

Counsellor Schechter spoke on “Development: Implications for the North American Baha’i Community,”’ while Mr. Ojermark’s topic was ‘“‘The Bahá’í Community and Its Entrance into the Field of Development.””

Louhelen hosts Baha’i Studies development conference

Mr. Lucatelli spoke Friday evening on ‘‘The Seven Valleys: A Key to the Structural Relationships Among Religion, Art and Science.”

On Saturday evening, attendees enjoyed dancing, volleyball, a slide presentation on ‘‘The Artwork of Betty Filstrup,’’ and a video tape, ‘‘Baha’i Education in India.””

Shown at right are many of the 138 Baha’is from Canada and the U.S. who attended the Conference on Social and Economic Development held June 1-3 at the Louhelen Baha’i School in Michigan. The conference was sponsored by the Association for Baha’i Studies Midwestern Regional Committee.

v2, ae

10 ASSEMBLIES SHARE THEIR RESPONSES TO THE BUILDING A UNIFIED BAHA’] COMMUNITY MINI-COURSE

“Delightful! Very well prepared.”’—Amherst, MA

“Stimulated practical ideas that we can use in our community. We received many fresh perspectives.”"— Lakewood, OH

“Everyone seemed to get a lot out of this course.””—Delta, CA

“It especially increased our awareness of things that are sometimes overlooked.’’—Sa/t Lake City, UT

“Brought out new ideas. Thought-provoking.””—Orange County, FL

“Dealt with the brass tacks issues. Best course yet. We got a lot out of i

—Jamestown, ND

Counsellor Arbab, family are guests at Green Acre ‘Conferencia Hispanica’

“Extremely interesting.’”’—Denton, TX “Consultation at Feast has improved as a result of the course.”’— Wauwatosa, WI

The Assembly felt the course was thoroughly worthwhile. We now have some new ideas with direct actions for positive and immediate results. We're very excited!’’"—Snohomish CCD No. 3, WA

“We enjoyed an excellent discussion.””—Pima County, AZ

If your Assembly and community would like to participate in the Building a Unified Baha’i Community course, or one of the other Assembly Development Program mini-courses, contact an instructor near you or mail the coupon below to: r

National Education Committee

Baha’i National Center

Wilmette, IL 60091

OUR ASSEMBLY WOULD LIKE TO PARTICIPATE IN THE FOLLOWING ASSEMBLY |, DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM MINI-COURSES (check one or more):

—___ The Newly Formed Assembly Consultation With Individuals

The Local Spiritual Assembly: A Divinely Ordained Institution

Building a Unified Baha’i Community

The Role of Assembly Officers NAME OF LOCAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY.

The Year of Waiting and Divorce

ADDRESS.

TELEPHONE NUMBER ( )

Farzam Arbab, a member of the Continental Board of Counsellors in the Americas, and his family were the special guests May 5-6 at the sixth Regional Conferencia Hispanica at the Green Acre Bahá’í School in Eliot, Maine.

More than 50 people attended, many of whom are from a wide variety of Central and South American countries.

held exclusively in Spanish.

A feature of the weekend was a Baha'i board game developed by the Castillo family of New York. Based on quotations from the Baha’i. Writings (in Spanish, of course) it was played with enjoyment by people of all ages.

Before the conference ended, plans were made for the seventh such gathering to be held at Green Acre the weekend of September

Classes on Baha’i topics were 8-9,

FUN

Continued From Page 8

ha’ tradition, you might think of another time for family prayer. Consult together on choosing a time for activity No. 1. 1. For one week choose a specific time each day for the family to gather together for prayer. Family members may choose one prayer each to share at this time, or each one, in turn, may choose one day to select and recite prayer(s) for the rest of the family. 2. Play hide and seek together outside or indoors as weather dictates. 3. Hold relay races. Determine the starting and finishing lines. Divide into two teams (if you have less than six, you may wish to invite friends over to play). (a) “Under-over””: a ball or balloon is passed to teammates alternating under legs, over head. (b) “Don’t Drop the race to finish line and back to start carrying a peanut or ping pong ball on a large spoon. If you drop the cargo, you must go back and start over. (c) “Run and Pop It”: Each team member in turn must run to the finish line where a sack of balloons is contained, pick up one balloon, run back to start and sit on balloon to pop it. Refreshments: Popsicles. You may make them at home with real fruit juice frozen in an ice cube

tray with a toothpick in each division, or buy them pre-made at the store.

[Page 10]TEACHING

The American Baha'i

10

The homefront

pioneer

A brief description of the various kinds of homefront pioneer goals was included in this column last month.

This month we highlight the top priority goal of consolidating mass-taught areas. No better words could be found than those in this lovely, heartwarming letter from a new homefront pioneer to Perry, Georgia. We'd like now to share it with you.

.

Dear Friends,

As you know I have already reached my post in Perry, Georgia.

The home is absolutely perfect for a Baha’i home, as well it is. I can easily sleep eight people and have plenty of room for firesides, Baha’i_ meetings, and study classes.

1 AM praying to be guided to the whites as well as blacks whom God has already prepared to receive the Teachings, and I would like to have a nice home for that reason also.

I went to a newcomers’ meeting. last night and learned they have their meetings in private homes. Naturally, | offered my home for that purpose.

If they.come to my home and see the beautiful portrait of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá (and the) picture of the Temple they are bound to ask some questions.

I'll try my best to do as Shoghi Effendi said, ‘‘Don’t tell them everything you know. Only that portion they are ready to hear.”

The third day I was here I decided to make a walking tour of the town. I stopped in various shops (and) mentioned I had just moved to Perry. ...

When I told them I was from St. Simons Island they couldn’t understand why I would leave such a lovely place to come to Perry.

I TOLD them I was a Baha’i, and since there were so many other Baha’is scattered about south and middle Georgia I wanted to be in the area. I also quickly told them I had always been attracted to Perry since I passed through it every time I traveled from St. Simons to Atlanta, which was often.

On the fourth day I visited Mrs. Ethelyn Clerkley, who is a Baha’i here. When I phoned before going she said she was sick in bed.

When I arrived, however, she was dressed and looked great. She said that after I called she started feeling so much better. It is so rewarding to see how happy every Baha'i here is when you visit them.

We had lunch together and spent several hours talking about the Faith.

See HOMEFRONT Page 11

Local projects aimed at meeting the challenge from the Universal House of Justice t6 improve the fabric of society were proposed during an Alabama Baha’i Conference on Social and Economic Development held May 6 in Birmingham. About 60 Baha’is from all areas of the -state attended the conference, which was sponsored by the Auxiliary Board to consult on the message of October 20, 1983, from the Universal House of Justice to the Baha’ is of the world.

That message stated, ‘‘Progress in the development field will largely depend on natural stirrings at the grassroots, and it should receive its driving force from those

Following opening addresses by Auxiliary Board members Ben Levy and Sam McClellan, participants were divided into four workshop groups.

Some of the proposals coming from those workshops were:

Inventory the resources of local Baha’i communities and offer those resources to help Baha’is and social agencies; form a network for sharing resources among Baha’i communities; further develop Baha’i community life so as to affect society in general; and

Tim Tyson (third from left), an assistant to Auxiliary Board member Ben Levy, and Jack Guillebeaux (fourth from left), an as assure that projects do not detract from the teaching work and, in fact, that they operate concurrently with it.

Conference participants report sistant to Auxiliary Board member Sam McClellan, lead a workshop session on the implications of social and economic develop

ed on some efforts already under way such as a program in Jerusalem Heights, Alabama, to teach Baha’is and non-Bahda’is alike to read; and conducting an in-depth

ment during a day-long conference held May 6 in Birmingham, Alabama.

survey of Baha’i resources with the goal of setting up a Baha’i business to employ Baha’is, and being effective promoters of race unity in Pensacola, Florida.

Second Amoz Gibson summer project needs volunteer workers

The second Amoz Gibson Summer Teaching Project needs volunteers to work and serve together this summer among the Sioux Indians in Wanblee, South Dakota.

The campaign is sponsored by the American Indian Teaching Committee and the District Teaching Committee of South Dakota.

THIS IS an intensive heart-toheart teaching and deepening

campaign that includes daily children’s classes, youth activities, traveling teaching, and adult outreach.

We want to build an army of love wherein foot-soldiers work hand in hand with one another at a variety of tasks that exemplify a spirit of cooperation and joy throughout the entire camp.

Baha’ is of any age are sought to share any skill or talent, especially

those who seek to learn to teach at their own highest level.

Experienced teachers and coordinators are needed for children’s classes. Advance notice is not required.

Any Bahá’í who can bring a recommendation from a Local Spiritual Assembly (or District Teaching Committee) will be warmly welcomed; the basic requirement is a happy and unifying spirit.

New Development Committee slates 1st national conference at Louhelen

The recently appointed Committee for Social and Economic Development will hold its first national conference December 7-8 at the Louhelen Baha’i School near Davison, Michigan.

The aims of the conference are to identify the relevant Baha’i writings on such themes as educa Green Acre featured

The Green Acre Baha’i School in Eliot, Maine, was featured prominently April 20 in a threepage feature article in Foster’s Daily Democrat, a local newspaper in Dover, New Hampshire.

The article, in the paper’s weekly magazine section, ‘“‘Showcase,”” Presents a complete history of the school, describing in detail how Sarah Farmer, the daughter of a Dover transcendentalist and Eliot philanthropist, decided to dedi cate Green Acre to the Baha’i Faith after meeting ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in 1899.

tional development, health, community development, and appro} riate technology, and to identify Baha’is with experience in these and other areas of development who may be used as resources.

In addition, the financial and legal implications of social and economic development projects will be discussed.

Among the participants will be Counsellor Farzam Arbab who will give special attention to the relationship of teaching to social and economic development and the spiritual dimensions of development.

Attendance at the conference is by invitation. Those Baha’is who

• may wish to attend should send a

letter describing their professional background to the Committee on Social and Economic Development, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. Letters of intent should be received no later than August 1.

Lost and found

The following items were collected at this year’s National Convention’s lost and found department.

If you are the owner of any of these items, please contact the Office of Membership and Records at the Baha’i National Center.

• One men’s blue heather

sweater, size Tall-Medium (38-40), made by Brentwood Sportswear.

• One book titled The Life

of Dorothy Baker: From Copper to Gold, autographed by the author ‘‘To Eleanor.’”

• One book titled Dr.

Seuss’s ABC, missing the front cover.

• One pair of child’s sunglasses, blue, with Mickey

Mouse perched on the corner of each lens.

• One yellow paper bag with

four postcards of the House of Worship and a House of Worship visitors’ brochure.

It is possible to consult and make plans on this project in the morning, and to see them realized in the afternoon. Individual initiative will be given a high priority, under the guidance of the camp director.

Projecteers should be prepared to undergo fairly primitive conditions including extremes of heat and cold, the threat of violent thunderstorms, and rugged terrain.

YOU’LL be camping out under the stars, although indoor plumbing is available. Bring camping equipment, sleeping bags and blankets, and a tent if possible.

Five dollars a day is suggested to cover food and expenses. Consider being deputized by your local community, or interested individuals; but if you don’t have the money, come anyway.

Any form of contribution is valuable, none is too small. We invite contributions—such as children’s materials, sports and camping equipment, media supplies, books, food or money—to be sent to Marinell Rhine, project registrar, Pierre, SD 57501 (phone 605-224-0336).

As much more than a summer conference or school, the Amoz Gibson Summer Teaching Project is a high point of the summer and an excellent training ground for experiencing another culture, which also gives one a taste of foreign pioneering.

Come pray, consult, teach, and fly with the golden eagle to victory.

"sc en RSS i Sf SS SS A SE RH

[Page 11]TEACHING

duly 1984

11

TEACHING THROUGH FRIENDSHIP TEAMS

Friendship Teams have been checking in from all over the country, sharing news of their victories and introducing us to their new friends.

In Rhode Island three Friendship Teams near Cranston have chosen three completely different fields of service.

One team invites Bahá’í and non-Baha’i friends alike to meet for prayers and readings from the writings of all religions over lunch.

Another team helps in the extension teaching goal of Warwick, while several friends formed a third team that has traveled to Bermuda to teach the Faith.

A Friendship Team in Pennsylvania has joined the Pottstown Council of Churches, and promises to send a photograph soon.

In Maryland there has been great success with Friendship Teams composed of Iranian refugees. The Spiritual Assembly of Westminster writes:

“In the last two months we have formed two Friendship Teams. Recently, our first team spoke at a retired persons’ development in Westminster.

“The home has interdenominational Bible study groups. They called us in February and asked that we send some Bahá’ís to speak in April.

“The three women (Baha’is) did a marvelous job, and the older people were particularly awed by our dear refugee (Jahan Jamshidi) who is 58 and endured a great deal of sacrifice to come to the U.S.

“They’ve been invited back in the future to speak on another topic. We are thrilled with this success.

“Our second team is composed of two Persians and an American who have formed a deepening team to deepen new believers and also present members of the community.’”

It seems that Friendship Teams can do almost anything! Does your Friendship Team have an exciting report to make? This is your space; let us hear from you.

Baha’i named to board of human rights panel

Following the Human Rights Day observance in January in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, one of that Baha’i “community’s newest members was elected to the board of the Sheboygan Human Rights Association.

Book review

Spirit in Action: A new perspective on teaching

The individual believer has become the rallying point of the final two years of the Seven Year Plan.

Publicity, public attention, and news articles about the Faith, unprecedented in the past, commonplace during the last five years, have served to pave the way for the individual believer to act.

“TEACH My Cause,’’ Baha*u’lláh tells us; become ‘‘a brilliant lamp, a shining star, and a blessed tree adorned with fruit.””

The individual believer as teacher is each and every one of us, no matter how unworthy or unskilled we may feel.

Often, when given examples of successful teachers, or of how to

teach the Baha’ Faith, we are introduced to the giants of the American Baha’i community: Louis Gregory with his golden heart; Martha Root who did not begin to teach until after she was 40 years old; and more recently, Dorothy Baker who was considered for many years an “‘inactive’’ Baha’i.

Reading about their tests and trials, we learn that they had to cope with problems and disappointments too. But what a challenge! Become another Louis Gregory, another .Martha Root, another Dorothy Baker?

Spirit in Action: Teaching the Baha’i Faith by Nathan Rutstein will give you a different perspec

tive on teaching.

Filled with teaching stories, successes, heartbreaks, triumphs, honesty and growth, it is a book about the individual believer.

Rather than listing suggestions, Mr. Rutstein shares confirmations. In chapters headed ‘‘Overcoming Fear,”’ ‘Training Our Spiritual Selves,” “The Importance of Deepening,’’ and “Awakening the Desire to Teach,”” he tells the stories of individuals like you and me.

These examples are people who were scared, lonely, helpless, impatient and demanding. Unnamed, these average Baha’ is find success through prayer, deepening,

perseverance and action.

Again and again the point is made that to win a goal, to teach the Faith effectively, we must

.each pray, make a decision, and

then act.

Few of us feel.inside the confidence we see in others. The examples presented to us seem to be out of reach unless we find that opportunity to share a test, hear a sorrow, and find that those we admire so much are really so much like ourselves.

Teaching the Baha’ Faith is our chance to share a cup of tea with those friends who are known as teachers and to hear their secrets of success.

California, South Carolina lead way in enrollments for B.E. 140

Listed here according to the numbers of Baha’is enrolled are last year’s enrollment figures for each state.

Of course, the first few states on the list should come as no surprise. Both South Carolina and California have large, active Baha’i communities with many Spiritual Assemblies and District Teaching Committees plus the Bosch Baha’i School in California and the Louis Gregory Institute in South Carolina.

Oregon, Texas, Florida and Arizona have been known for many -years as active teaching areas. While these states are our leaders and examples, not all the most exciting teaching victories were won there last year.

Washington, D.C., a community that grew little for several years, has begun its ‘‘Project 1000.” Although by the end of the year the National Center had received only 16 enrollments as a result of. the campaign, those 16 represent almost a 300 per cent increase over the previous year.

Kentucky, which has only five Spiritual Assemblies, enrolled 15 new believers, and Mississippi, with only 10 Assemblies, enrolled 22 new Baha'is.

In addition, South Dakota showed remarkable growth as a result of the Amoz Gibson teaching project. Watch for more good news from South Dakota this year as the project continues.

The total number of new Baha’is enrolled during the past year was 2,313 or 89 per cent of the 2,608 enrolled the year before.

Did we teach 11 per cent fewer seekers? Or did we only follow up on 89 per cent of our interested friends?

If we all pledge to give 100 per cent in our teaching, no matter how much or how little we can do, perhaps our enrollments will leap by that 100 per cent also.

Enrollments by state

California 304, South Carolina 269, Oregon 177, Florida 137,

Texas 130, Arizona 103, New Mexico 95, Illinois 87.

Georgia 85, Washington 68, New York 62, South Dakota 61, North Carolina 59, Michigan 49, Colorado 46, Ohio 40.

Virginia 40, Wisconsin 33, Massachusetts 32, Nevada 32, New

Jersey 32, Missouri 30, Nebraska 25, Mississippi 22.

Pennsylvania 21, Maryland 20, New Hampshire 20, Minnesota 17, Tennessee 17, Idaho 16, lowa 16, Louisiana 16.

Washington, D.C. 16, Kentucky 15, Oklahoma 15, Indiana

13, Kansas 13, Maine 12, Montana 12, Vermont 11. Connecticut 9, Wyoming 8, Rhode Island 6, Utah 6, Alabama 5, West Virginia 4, Arkansas 3, North Dakota 3, Delaware 1.

More than 40 Baha’is from Wyoming, Idaho, Montana, Utah and Colorado participated April 7-8 in a Rocky Mountain States Teaching Conference at Teton Village, Wyoming (near Jackson Hole), sponsored by the Wyoming District Teaching Committee. The speakers, including Auxiliary

oriented talks including ways to reach people in smaller towns and rural areas, and teaching minorities and business people. Here Frank Mead, a Native American believer irom Wyoming’s Wind River Reservation, comments on a talk by Carlos Velazquez (left) on ways to reach minority groups.

Homefront

Continued From Page 10

I left some tapes with Mrs. Clerkley, and a prayer.

So far I have loaned tapes to seven Baha’is. I show them how to operate the players, and the first tape I play is one by Steve Hampton, a Baha’i from Carrollton.

THIS has really worked wonders. When the music starts, even the babies stop crying. When you hear the words ‘‘O God, refresh and gladden my spirit ...’’ you can’t help but get a profound feeling of love in the entire house.

..-most of these Baha’is are visited only once a year, and that is to form an ‘‘Assembly.’”

There are many Baha’is from outside the area who have given of their time, which no Baha’i has much of, to help form these Assemblies, but I strongly feel we need knowledgeable Bahá’í who can live here, put down roots, so

to speak. There is so much opportunity here.

Most of the Baha’is I have met, and that is quite a few, feel the loving spirit of the Baha’is who visit them, but as to actual knowledge of the Faith—they certainly need to be deepened.

I think the tapes will be a great help, but nothing can take the place of personal contact and planned studies with perhaps two or three or even one person to start with.

I am praying that Baha’u’llah will lead me to the Baha’is in each locality who have the best potential for learning and then taking the initiative to help establish an active community.

I know I can’t do this alone. It is only to the extent that I allow Baha’u’llah to use the talents He gave me that I can succeed.

With Baha’ love,

Sally Brown Perry, Georgia

Stamford presents copy of Master’s talk

to NAACP director

On April 24, the Bahá’ís of Stamford, Connecticut, presented to Dr. Benjamin Hooks, the national director of the NAACP, a copy of the address given by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to the fourth national convention of the NAACP held in April 1912 in Chicago.

The presentation was made by two members of the Spiritual Assembly of Stamford, Charliene Bynum and Azalee Fitchbein, during a dinner commemorating the NAACP’s 75th anniversary.

More than 400 non-Baha’is attended the dinner.

The Fund Is the Life-Blood of the Faith

National Baha’i Fund Wilmette, IL 60091

bee eccr aemS R RSRSS C S AAEES SR SEETE

[Page 12]The American Baha'i

12

Resolution

Continued From Page 1

A. Campbell Jr. of South Carolina; and Rep. Dante Fascell of Florida.

“The purpose of the resolution,” said Rep. Porter, “‘is threefold. First, it holds the government of Iran responsible for upholding the rights of all its citizens including the Baha’is.

“Second, it condemns the Prosecutor General’s edict banning the Baha’is.

“AND THIRD, it calls upon the President of the United States to work in the United Nations and other forums with leaders of other countries to form a broad-based appeal to the Iranian government.’”

Congressman Porter, in whose district is Wilmette, site of the Mother Temple of the West and the Baha’i administrative headquarters in the U.S., said, ‘“‘It is an ironic crime against all humanity that these gentle and peaceful people have been persecuted in their homeland through 140 years of history but especially since the rise to power of the murderous Khomeini regime. ...

“Last year the Prosecutor General of Iran issued an edict banning all Baha’i religious activities as criminal acts. Like the Nuremberg laws, this edict establishes the so-called Jegal grounds for mass arrests and genocide, and that is what is occurring ...—genocide.

“In response to this decree, elected leaders of the Baha’i Faith

H. CON. RES. 226

in Iran did dissolve all Baha’i institutions there, citing obedience, as they always do, to the civil law of the land.

“But ... this has done nothing to prevent more torture, more persecution, and more executions.

“*THE SETTING in Iran today

- resembles Nazi Germany during

Hitler’s rise to power ... and the world must speak out against

ito

“The world must learn what is happening in Iran and bring the pressure of civilized opinion to bear on this barbaric situation. ...

“This resolution will not, in itself, change anything, but the people of this planet, united in their opposition to genocide in any form, can.””

“The Subcommittee on Human Rights and International Organizations,” said Rep. Yatron, “«.,has long recognized the severity of the situation facing the Baha’i community in Iran. ...

“Over 170 prominent Baha’is have been executed since Khomeini’ came into power. Their places of worship have been destroyed, their possessions have been confiscated, and their religion banned. ...

“Baha’is in Iran have always experienced tremendous pressure and persecution but they are being slaughtered by the Khomeini regime for adherence to their faith. For this reason, I urge my colleagues to support House Concurrent Resolution 226.”’

REP. LEACH, who was a member of the subcommittee when Baha’is first offered

Whereas more than one hundred and fifty members of the Baha’i faith have been brutally executed by Iranian authorities since the 1979 Islamic revolution;

Whereas many Baha’is in Iran have disappeared and others have been tortured, persecuted, and deprived of their fundamental rights to personal property and employment;

Whereas an edict issued by Iran’s Prosecutor General on August 29, 1983, has far-reaching implications that threaten the lives of three hundred thousand Baha’ is residing in Iran and places the future practice of Baha’ism in jeopardy by dismantling the administrative structure of the Bahá’í religion; and

Whereas these actions for the first time establish an expressed national policy which lays the legal foundation for executions, arrests, the confiscation of property, denial of jobs and pensions, expulsion of Baha’i children from schools, and other pressures which may be brought to bear by Iranian authorities on the Baha’is: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring), That the Congress (1) holds the Government of Iran responsible for upholding the rights of all its nationals, including the Baha’ is;

(2) condemns the recent decision taken by the Government of Iran to destroy the Baha’i faith by labeling as ‘‘criminal acts’’ all Baha'i teaching and organized religious activities, including the attempts by Baha’is to elect their own local and national leaders, to meet in assemblies, to communicate among themselves, and to work for volunteer committees; and

(3) calls upon the President (A) to work with appropriate foreign governments and the allies of the United States in forming an appeal to the Government of Iran concerning the Baha’

(B) to cooperate fully with the United Nations in its efforts on behalf of the Baha’is and to lead such efforts whenever it is possible and appropriate to do so; and

(©) to provide, and urge others to provide, for humanitarian assistance for those Baha’is who flee Iran.

Sec. 2. The Clerk of the House of Representatives shall transmit a copy of this concurrent resolution to the President.

testimony in May 1982, said, “One cannot help but conclude that the aim of the Iranian govern ment is the extirpation of the Baha’i faith from Iran, either by forced conversion of Baha’is to Shi’ite Islam or ‘extermination.’ The analogies between Iran today and Germany under Hitler are towering.

“The acts of inhumanity and brutality that have been heaped upon members of a peaceful religion are incomprehensible to civilized humanity. Among those recently executed are 10 women including three teen-age girls. The Revolutionary Guard tortures others in prison, whipping them with metal cables, pouring boiling water on their heads.

“While there is some tentative glimmer of hope that worldwide protests against this persecution may have diminished the Iranian authorities’ appetite for executions, the abuses continue to occur and demand our unflagging

efforts to bring all pressure possible to bear on that government for its crimes.

“*..cit is my hope that those Baha’is who remain in [ran and who live in the darkness of this terror will hear our words and know of our actions today.

“Accordingly, I urge the unanimous support of my colleagues for this resolution as a symbol that the Islamic Republic of Iran cannot perpetrate an evil of this nature in silence. International protests may prove futile, but ignoring the plight of this gentle, committed people would be morally negligent.”

ON MAY 2, three Baha’is appeared before the House Subcommittee on Human Rights and International Organizations to offer new information concerning the situation of the Baha’is in Iran since the subcommittee heard testimony two years ago.

Among them was Said Eshragi,

an Iranian Baha’i now living in Texas whose father, mother and 22-year-old sister were among 18 Baha’is hanged in Shiraz in June 1983.

Also testifying were Judge James F. Nelson, chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly; Dr. Wilma Brady, the National Assembly’s vice-chairman; Rep. Porter; and Elliott Abrams, Assistant Secretary of State for Human Rights and Humanitarian Affairs.

Rep. Tom Lantos of California, who chaired the hearing in the absence of Rep. Yatron, proposed an international conference devoted solely to discussing the persecutions in Iran with an eye toward devising possible solutions.

Mr. Abrams, who expressed the administration’s support for House Concurrent Resolution 226, said such a conference is certainly within the realm of possibility.

niet) gens ood 5 This photograph was printed in

the September 1983 issue of The American Bahá’í and the following individuals were identified from letters to the National Baha’i Archives. Front row (left to right) Zahri Schoeney, Roderick Ward, unknown, Dale or Dwight Allen. Second row, Alicia Ward Cardell,

Board members to meet

“*Mining the Spiritual Gems”’ is the theme of an Intermountain Auxiliary Board Conference to be held September 14-16 at the Copper King Inn in Butte, Montana.

Keynote speakers will include Counsellor Velma Sherrill; Judge James F. Nelson, chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly; and Auxiliary Board members Opal Conner and Margaret Gallagher.

A special guest will be Mrs. Florence Mayberry, a former Counsellor member of the International Teaching Centre in

Children and youth at Geyserville Baha’i School, 1939

paar ee am

Genay Schoeney, Rose

ney, Richard Groger, unknown, Beatrice Groger Link, unknown, Theresa Groger Ganong, Hal Rutledge, Nairn Ward, David Rutledge. Third row, Eleanor Jones, Theresa Marney Jones. Back row, Lloyd Schoeney, Betty Dibble,

Guardian at a Saturday evening meeting.

There will be programs for ‘children and youth, and a nursery.

Area motels include:

Copper King Inn, 4655 Harrison Avenue (406-494-6666).

War Bonnet, I-90 and I-15 (406494-7800).

Thrift Inn, 2900 Harrison Avenue (406-494-3500).

Capri Motel (uptown), 22 N. Wyoming (406-723-4391).

Rocker Inn Interchange, west of Butte (406-723-5464).

= sabe Anne Holley Brierley, John Cornell (Jack Fatooh), unknown, John Eichenauer, Laila Storch, Peter Caswell, Edward Rutledge. If you have further information, please write to the National Baha’i Archives, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

in Montana

(406-494-2250).

Eddys, Montana & Front (406782-0471).

Rose Motel, 920 S. Montana (406-782-9101).

City Center, 641 W. Park (406782-0401).

KOA Campground, I-15 Mont. Exit (406-782-0663).

For conference information, send a stamped self-addressed envelope to P.O. Box 3922, Butte, MT 59702, or phone (Montana only) 1-800-448-4357, or 406-723

Haifa, who will speak about the Mile Hi, 3499 Harrison Avenue . 8224 or 406-494-3767.

[Page 13]® the glorious destiny of North America @ the spi ial prereq' of all Baha’i activities ® the hows and whys of teaching and pioneering © the relationship between the spiritual and the practical that enables YOU to help ensure America’s destiny

tes that will assure the success

order from your National Baha'i Distribution Service; prices may vary.

Use the order form at the right to order any of the titles on the publications page or

SE ica US I ICE he new thematic table & ee nf Aer si en co ets of the oe oi st eit oe an ee. ce of we NO Tobe to help ¥ studied oeviovs | Racaeg ia a Uni ee . as you Na hav ne Material ASPECt wn Divine Plan ge of Noth Amence at of the MI ce 5 Assurance Ai alt for the anys Ke ‘Abdul es sje Nowh AERA ity Its Task, ne Destiny g Faith in the ‘1 ah american B a se et i 7 Challenge ° of oe 4-72 Shoght es « Bana'u'ah to Aid in on and Glo The ChalleRB4 P icipation eee, 9 ae gages {O™ at Sass ple of Babs 7 Successes on-Baha't Universal Pang Teaching ching Se g, MultiP. of the People & The He ote ahaa and Now The Urs for guccessiul 3 e rican Banat Preredirisites for PIONEET® Methods for ft ye North Ame Perea at Initiative 4 Planning S sp ‘woh : esation of th gern Baha individual I Opporunities a8 Ty The Unive orn for West’ sidering OPP! dann 52-53 ity sand Pattern (OF NES Considering A Consolidation cies a eas o Comms Prime Move ane Expansion | ‘Administrat Sone) 53+ ie * paramount IPO Communi Woreng Teaching he by op America 65°51 e Tord jak ies in The oi Teach Met Goals 6-58 9 sr The Cradle 0} Winning reign Goals ration f i oe Ten 4 The Ac Wing istrative Prepare TeachiN® phe Tasks LY avidual Pree ah and National The a assurances OF a ations for Loe Heise y Establishing Four The SPre tio i . Insite : The Spoon eansiating LYE tivity and The ised Finding SU eputized pana’ tla’ Py Dail ws Capacty |e Peupponing and DSP The Importance Needed 1 Equi a3 Appeal for oa th Baha't vituet in ny PI eens gh eM Full “8 call for the isto RGR Pence North A\ nei faa shortcomings of porting A Warning abou Anberited, National Americar ce of Purging IT tial for All The impor ities Essent Flaws, on Se inital Qn and Financial Ihe Cultivation maple Proie % f Teaching, Plans Bound in navy blue and silver ans 20-4 23 oS ew inde: d the: ic > of conte! + Plans Maction one ea 104 pages + new index and thematic table of contents Rectitude of Cor a Hey and Ho ve Baha't am a Bie teos Preis Regenerating $ 00* Tee ary weapons © 1. Summa Commits 4 Hardcover Catalog No. 108-045 Non $650* Softcover Catalog No. 108-046 6

• Available from Baha’ Publishing Trust,

Wilmette, IL, U.S.A., at prices listed i plus 10% postage and handling. Or Available from

BahaiPublishing Trust

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Coupon for Ordering from the Publishing Trust

elsewhere in The American Bahai.

Cash orders must be accompanied by a check or money order for the full amount (including 10 per cent for postage and handling, minimum’$1.50). Credit card orders are accepted by phone (1-800-323-1880) and by mail; a VISA or MasterCard account number and expiration date must be included. Send orders to Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091.

Qy. Title Price Title Price Destiny Package A $8.00 __Apostles Baha'u'llah, CS $7.00 Destiny Package B 19.00 __Baha’i Proofs, HC 15.00 —Destiny Package C 13,00 __Dawning Place, HC 20.00 —Advent Divine Justice, HC 12.00 Dawning Place, SC 12.00 Advent ¢ Justice, SC 6.50 _Fly Away Home, SC 5.50 America’s Spir. Destiny 4.50.

Trust TTE, IL 60091

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Bahá’í Publishing

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(including 10 per cent for postage and handling, minimum $1.50)

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(All orders are NET—no discounts. No charges on librarians’ accounts accepted. Credit card orders ac cepted by phone: 1-800-323-1880.)

TAB 7/84 Prices good through

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ern ee eet oy reer a Eee we or Rar meen geet]

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[Page 14]The American Baha’i

14

Service for Blind provides reading, listening materials

More than 50 years ago the Baha’i Service for the Blind, a committee of the National Spiritual Assembly, began its work.

SIMPLY put, the committee’s purpose is to provide printed literature in a form that can be used

by the visually impaired.

The two major mediums used by the blind are Braille and/or tape recordings. Materials ‘‘in large print’’ can be used by some, but the production of this medium. is the responsibility of the Baha’i

os April 6, U.S. Rep. Marcy Kap(second from right) of Ohio’s Ninth District. was, visited by a delegation of Bahs’is from northwestern Ohio who expressed t!

in Iran. Shown with Rep. Kaptur are (left to right) Mehrdad Fazli, Zhaleh Fazli, Kathi Zmeskal (seated) and Dr. Otto Zmeskal. The

Publishing Trust.

Brailled material is produced by Baha’is who have been certified by the Library of Congress as Braille transcribers.

A course for learning Braille is available from the Service’s Braille Production Office in Ludington, Michigan. Depending on the individual, the course and preparation of a trial manuscript for certification takes about a year.

The preparation of a book in Braille requires a great deal of time and patience. It means literally copying an entire book word for word, line by line into the Braille code.

To transcribe a book of 200 pages into Braille takes about five to six months. Another four to five months is then needed for proofreading and making corrections.

THIS transcription constitutes the master from which copies are made and bound. Copies are made by placing a sheet of heated plastic over each page and molding them to the master page through a vacuum process called thermoforming.

Braille is considered by most people to be the major form of communicating the written word

unable to learn Braille or, due to other physical disabilities, are unable to use it.

For these individuals—as well as Braille users—tape recorded material is the medium used.

Again, Baha’i volunteers record books onto tape (usually cassettes) which are then duplicated for sale and the lending library.

Considerable time and patience are needed for this work. For example, The Revelation of Baha’u’llah, Vol. 3, which contains 448 pages, required 20 hours to record. 4

Though certification is not required to tape record books, certain requirements must be met. Good reading skills, a pleasant voice, and an absence of regional accent are necessary.

ALTHOUGH tapes are supplied by the Service, equipment and a quiet place to record are the responsibility of the tapist. Many people become tapists but soon abandon the work because they did not fully appreciate the amount of time and commitment required.

Since books can be produced on tape much faster than in Braille, the collection of titles available on

tape greatly exceeds that in Braille.

the sighted are at 10 per cent above the catalog price, and this additional amount (plus donations to the Service, earmarked through the National Fund) helps to offset the price difference.

One of the biggest problems facing the committee, in spite of the fact that it now has more than 140 books and pamphlets avail able on cassette tape and/or Braille, is the fact that many of the blind Baha’is are unaware of the services available to them.

For that matter, most Baha’isblind or sighted—are unaware of the committee’s existence.

You can help by making sure that your Assembly or District Teaching Committee knows about the committee and its services for the blind.

In addition to its work in this country, the Service supplies copies of Braille books to other English-speaking countries, to blind pioneers living in foreign countries, and to the World Centre library in Haifa.

You may request a catalog of materials for $1. Be sure to state which catalog is desired—Braille, tape or both. Also, please include your Baha’i I.D. number.

For a catalog or more information, please write to Baha’i Service

appreciation for her support of a concurrent resolution which con

visit was arranged by the Spiritual Assembly of Sylvanii

among

the visually However, many individuals are

impaired. low cost.

Books for the blind are sold beBooks on tape sold to

for the Blind, Tucson, AZ 85716.

CELEBRATE... ‘GREENLAKE!

Theme: ‘25th Year Celebration/Confirmation of Your Initiatives.”

Dates: September 14-16. Location: American Baptist Assembly, Green Lake, Wisconsin. Capacity 1,400.

Note: The National Spiritual Assembly will be the honored guest speakers on this special 25th anniversary occasion. Many other surprises are being planned, to be announced later. A unique exhibition hall features Publishing Trust bookstore, Baha’i publishers and suppliers, National ‘Committee booths, Baha’ artists and artisans.

Classrooms: Most adult sessions in central meeting hall. During optional sessions, classes meet in 10-12 smaller classrooms spread over grounds in nearby buildings. Nursery, outstanding children’s classes, pre-youth and youth classes also in nearby buildings.

Accommodations: All accommodations in the quiet seclusion of the American Baptist Assembly grounds. Wide variety available from primitive to deluxe camp sites; inexpensive dorms and rooms for 1-4, cottages and cabins with cooking facilities, hotel rooms in a classic and homey 81-room lakefront hotel, large luxury homes. Meals served cafeteria style on site. Overnight guests must take meal plan unless there are cooking facilities at accommodations (house, cabin, cottage, camp site). Day guests may buy meal tickets, use snack bar, use picnic area or-restaurants off grounds. Vegetarian and special diets can be accommodated with advance arrangements.

Recreation: All recreational facilities are within the gates of site. Acres of serene meadows and woodlands with freely roaming deer and wildlife. Indoor swimming pool, bicycling, boating, fishing, tennis, golf, and miles of nature pact ae ideal for photographs.

Pre-register: All registration inquiries should be directed to the American Baptist Assembly, Green Lake, WI 54941. 414-294-3323.

Rates: To figure conference costs, add these three items: 1. Conference fees (overnight children, infant-11, $3.50; overnight adults, 12-older, $6.25; day guest children, infant-11, $3; 12-older, $5. Day guests will also ‘a day by the American Baptist Assembly.) 2. Accommodation rates (tots 5 and under, $5 per night, all rooms; for everyone ages 6 to adult, the following apply: dormitory style room, central bath, $8-12; rooms with semi-private bath, 3-2-1 per room, $14-$26; rooms with private bath, 4-3-2-1 per room, $12-$38; limited number of campsites, cabins, cottages and large

homes available. Contact ABA directly for availability and costs.) 3. Meal costs (children through age 5, no char children 6-11, breakfast $2, lunch $2.95, dinner $3.75; adults 12 - older,

breakfast $3.50, f= lunch $4.50, “ dinner $5.85). Ye

GREEN LAKE CENTER RESERVATION (one per termiy) ‘Mad to Reservations and make check payabie 10

‘American Baptist Assembly ~ Groen Lake, WI 5494)

‘Advance Deposit — Room: 1 Day Room Charge. Housekeeping/Camping, ¥ total charge

Last Nami la LUst Below your Fi ‘Age | Tite |. Conference ‘and the name of [tune a Mrs

‘member accompanying vou 18 peenens:

Cancetiason Fee Room: Banwaan 2 wea and 400 9m dey batore fearon,

‘Sepout Howsskesping!Comping Butweon 30 Sey snd 405 p'm day batore ‘sermon. Sapont Aer 80D. day bale reervaton no afd her

Accommodation/Rate Preference

{plan to room wth eB een

| deve angle occupancy not checked, a roommate may be assigned Arvin by Car Public Transportation

please give Date, Time, City and Send when Ynabied

‘1 using public transportation Place fo be meri! known,

[Confirmation

City @ Su 3

Telephone st SE NS

Aral dave Cue ne 8 AM Pe Ev 3

Depanvre date vee Ane ome 4 3

() FRIDAY DINNER - NO. ATTENDING ___

GREEN LAKE BAHA'I CONFERENCE

Pre-Registration for Children's Classes iGflitbie wAuai CHILD'S NAME EXPERIENCES:

AGE___BIRTH DATE.

PARENT'S NAME:

PARENT'S ADDRESS:

PLEASE LIST ANY SPECIAL NEEDS YOUR CHILD MAY HAVE (emotional-physical-learning disabilities

CHILD WILL ATTEND SAT. MORNING.

Send form directly to

Jo Welter, Madison WI, 53703.

SAT. AFTERNOON. ‘SUN. MORNING.

PLEASE LIST ANY SPECIAL MEDICAL OR DIET RESTRICTIONS:

40 cratdren. a gistet

[Page 15]oa cr tn

The American Baha'i

duly 1984

“You are already engaged in the thrust of the Seven Year Plan, which provides the framework for any further course of action you may now be moved by this new opportunity to adopt. International Youth Year will fall within the Plan’s next phase; thus the activities you will undertake, and for which you will wish to prepare even now, cannot but enhance your contributions to the vitality of that Plan, while at the same time aiding the proceedings of the

lay, then, in the vigour of your response.”’—The Universal House of Justice, letter to the Baha’i youth of the world, January 3, 1984

. Background

In 1979, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution proclaiming 1985 as International Youth Year (IYY) and selected as its theme the triple emphasis of ‘Participation, Development and Peace.”

The Universal House of Justice, in its message of January 3 to the Baha’f youth of the world, has referred to this commemorative year as an apt, exciting and portentous opportunity for youth to “enlarge the scope of your endeavors in precisely that arena of action in which you strive so conscientiously to distinguish yourself.””

The Baha’i youth of the U.S. hold a key position in the international scope of IYY ’85. Not only do we have unparalleled freedom to serve the Faith, but we have also at our disposal plenteous resources, boundless energy and a vital measure of support and inspiration from Baha’ institutions at all levels.

The Baha’i response

In the spring of 1983, the Baha’i National Youth Committee appointed a task force of youth to propose our national and local response to International Youth

Archives seeking Guardian’s letters

to early believers

The National Baha’i Archives Committee is trying to locate original letters from the Guardian to the following individuals:

Mrs. H.W. Birins, Ralph C. Browne, Helen Campbell, Dorothy Dent Dopieralska, Walter Guy and Bertha Harmon.

The originals or photocopies of these letters are needed by the Universal House of Justice in its efforts to study and compile the letters of the Guardian.

Anyone having information regarding the whereabouts of these letters is asked to contact the National Baha’i Archives, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

Youth Year. Let there be no de- Year 1985.

Acting on the advice of this dedicated group, a plan of action was developed by the committee which was subsequently approved by the National Spiritual Assembly.

This plan of action has been designed to tap the abundant zeal and enthusiasm of American Baha’i youth and young adults and to channel these energies into deeds of service to mankinddeeds that will exemplify the high standards of the Faith and serve as well to put the Faith before the public.

The activities which will serve as the Baha’i response to International Youth Year are two-fold in nature:

On a national scale

Baha’i youth are called upon to support “The Tree Project,” a campaign with a minimum goal to plant 20,000 trees in memory of the early martyrs of the Faith.

This important effort will tie the Baha’i youth into a worldwide reforestation campaign that involves tree planting by youth during International Youth Year. The Tree Project is a program adopted by non-governmental organizations, including the Baha’i International Community, and was also adopted by the UN General Assembly.

In order for the American Baha’i youth to achieve the objective of planting 20,000 trees, all youth clubs and committees and every individual youth must participate in The Tree Project.

Another national observance of International Youth Year 1985 will be the holding of a Continental Youth Conference hosted by the American Baha’i community during the summer of 1985. The site will be the Ohio State University campus in Columbus, and the program will be held from July 3-7.

The theme, ‘‘YOUth Can Move the World,’’ was excerpted from the message of the Universal House of Justice dated January 3, 1984. This program promises to attract Baha’is from throughout North America.as. well as from other continents, and will feature many noted Baha’i speakers along with a full range of workshop topics of special interest to youth and young adults.

To complement these national programs, the National Youth Committee has decided to organize contests that will allow for scholarly and artistic expressions of both The Tree Project and the theme ‘*YOUth Can Move the World.””

In addition, a national celebration of International Youth Year Day is to be planned which will involve Baha’i participation at all levels of the national community.

On a local level

A major emphasis of the Baha’i observance of International

IYY: Challenge, opportunity for Baha’i youth

Youth Year stems from the grassroots level. In addition to planting trees in the local community, youth are asked to implement service programs that address local needs.

In consultation with Local Spiritual Assemblies, youth groups and clubs as well as individual youth are to identify target groups in the public sector that can be served. Whether this service is directed toward the aged, the child or the refugee, the service should be meaningful and should demonstrate the dedication of Baha’i youth to upraising the quality of human life.

To underscore recent directives to develop close relationships with those in authority and leaders of thought, the National Youth Committee is calling on-all Local Youth Clubs to work with government agencies (i.e., city or county councils, office of the mayor, etc.) in developing public programs for International Youth Year. This process will afford Baha’i youth an opportunity to be in the forefront of planning and implementing meaningful celebrations of TYY ’85.

The National Youth Plan for the final phase of the Seven Year Plan has been launched in conjunction with the early observance of International Youth Year. The Plan directs the American youth to:

© Participate, at all levels, in the observance of International Youth Year 1985, through support of local and national service and proclamation programs.

Provide 19 youth to serve for year-long development, service and teaching programs, both domestically and abroad, in observance of International Youth Year 1985.

© Concentrate on being of service, with a commitment to the observance of International Youth Year 1985.

Wholehearted support

If these vast undertakings are to be successful, the commitment of the individual Bahá’í youth and young adult is primary. The observance of International Youth Year 1985 offers us a priceless opportunity to apply, through our deeds, the Healing Message of Baha’u’ lah.

Each of us must arise to carry out these objectives with vigor and enthusiasm. The family has a key role to play in this special year of activities as well. A unified response to the objectives of the Baha’i program for [YY 1985 can only serve to distinguish the Faith in the eyes of the public. _

Finally, if these objectives are to be successfully achieved, support from the Local Spiritual Assembly will be required. Loving guidance and support from these “potent sources of the progress of man’”’ will assuredly enhance all our efforts, be they small or large.

INTERNATIONAL YOUTH YEAR

85 |

New from BellwoodPress

a tale of mystery, fantas and reality for children 8 to 80

FLY AWAY HOME

written by STEVEN BRET BRENEMAN illustrated by CAROL JOY

three worlds—of the ‘ % su

of the gentle Eva and Reed, and of the seeking sparrows and ladybug merge into one pervaded by the mysterious presence of a nightingale who shows how one can fly away home into a fantasy that is reality

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[Page 16]The American Baha’i

eT Te Cn ae hl CLASSIFIEDS

16

Classified notices in The American Bahd’( are published free of charge as a service to the Baha’i 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.

°

BRILLIANT Star magazine has a constant need for good illustrators. We need people who are skilled in portraying with sensitivity and their own personal flair a variety of racial and ethnic minorities. Please send photocopies (5-10) to Rita Leydon, art director, Brilliant Star, Lahaska, PA 18931.

LESOTHO, in southern Africa, has several openings in education from high school to university positions. Teachers are needed for

SPecIAL Girts

math, geography, economics, biology and the sciences. There are also job opportunities for a systems analyst to develop and maii tain computer systems for bu: ness applications, and a few accounting positions in business and education. For more information, contact the International Goals Committee, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

HOMEFRONT pioneer needed to fill job in goal area in Kansas. Position available for someone to take care of a handicapped man. Some salary plus room and board. This non-Baha’i gentleman and his family have requested that a Baha’i fill this position. If interested, please phone the National Teaching Committee immediately at 312-869-9039, ext. 235.

DIRECTOR of finance is needed for the city of Unalaska, a seafood processing community in

the Aleutian Islands of Alaska. Qualifications include at least 10 years of financial management experience with at least five in a city or borough government; an accounting degree; extensive knowledge of fund accounting and government budgeting practices; and excellent oral and written communication skills. Salary range is $45,587 to $52,247 to start plus a liberal fringe benefits package. For more information contact the International Goals Committee, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or telephone 312-869-9039.

THE NATIONAL Baha’i Archives would like to contact relatives of William Dodge about the Dodge family papers. William Dodge, a long-time member of the Baha’i community of New York City, died in 1973 in Bluepoint, New York. Anyone having information about his relatives is asked

Detach or copy this form for special gifts to the National Baha’i Fund in honor or in memory of another.

IN HONOR

Honor gift card sent to:

Street Address

Name of Individual Honored:

And if, at any time, any gift were presented to Him, that gift was accepted as a token of His grace unto him that offered it.

—Bahá’u’lláh

City

Océasion (optional):

Examples: Birthday, Graduation, Mai ry, Pioneering move, Firesides giv other Funds, etc.

Name of contributor(s) making gift:

‘Anniversary, Baha'i declaration or anniversaHospitality. Services rendered. Contributions to

ID Number(s)

IN MEMORY

Memorial gift card sent to:

Street Address

City

Name of Individual Deceased:

The progress of man’s spirit in the divine world, after the severance of its connection with the body of dust, is through the bounty and grace of the Lord alone, or through the intercession and sincere prayers of other human souls, or through the charities and important good works which are performed in its name.

Name of contributor(s) making gift:

—'‘Abdu’l-Bahá

“ID Number(s)

to contact the National Bahá’í Archives, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

BETTER yet Connecticut! Planning to vacation in Connecticut this summer? Have a few hours you’d be willing to spare for traveling teaching? If so, please write to the District Teaching Committee secretary, Mrs. Sharon Ramsharran,

Hartford, CT 06120, or phone (mornings or evenings) 203-247-7550.

LARGE six-bedroom house for

rent or sale ($32,000 or $270/mo.) *

to prospective Baha’i homefront pioneers to Hume, New York, the birthplace of Lua Getsinger in the lovely hills of Allegany County. In the village of Fillmore (pop. 650) there are a bank, public library, supermarket, pharmacy, hardware store, Fillmore Central school, a health clinic with three doctors only three miles away, and various other services. Employment opportunities are available in health care, teaching, social work, farming and small business. A private college is only four miles away, and there are four other universities within an hour’s drive of Fillmore. The present pioneers there are leaving to help save an Assembly and would like to see the five years of “‘seed-sowing”’ continued. There are presently four adult Baha’is in Allegany County. Write to Richard and Brenda Snyder, J

_ Fillmore, NY 14735, or phone 716-567-2325.

PIONEERS to Sierra Leone, West Africa, need a set of “‘Star Study Program’”’ booklets, which are no longer available from the Publishing Trust here. If you have a complete set which you no longer need, please send it to the International Goals Committee, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, so that we can forward it to our beloved pioneers.

I AM gathering information about Zoroaster. If anyone would like to contribute items, from any source, they would be much appreciated. Has anyone seen reference to predictions by Zoroaster about the coming of the religion of the Arabian Prophet, which would be followed in time by the appearance of two more Prophets from His native land, Persia? Please contact Mark Townsend,

Garden City, KS 67846.

“FREE and Low-Cost Broadcast Time’’—that’s the theme of a new media guidelines booklet in preparation. If you’ve had experience getting a radio or TV program.on the air free or for little money, please jot down your story and RUSH it to Mrs. Ann

Essential to Our Progress

National Baha'i Fund Wilmette, IL 60091

Jorgensen, _ Albrook, Republica de Panama. Many Baha’i communities around the world will be grateful for your help! Please include your name and address. Thanks from CIRBAL Mass Media Centre.

IF YOU like avocados, have we got an orchard for you! You can grow them, keep horses, and generally enjoy the good life in Fallbrook, California, where an Assembly needs to be restored. Its right next door to Lawrence Welk Village in scenic Southern California, has an ideal climate, and is near the mountains and ocean, Please contact the District Teaching Committee of Southern California No. 4, | €arlsbad, CA 92008.

EVER dream of serving hundreds of your fellow Baha’is in a special way? Such an opportunity exists at the largest annually attended Baha’i conference in the U.S. Wonder how? Contact Ian Bamber, secretary, Green Lake Planning Committee,

Marinette, WI 54143, or phone 715-735-9075. It’s a rare opportunity to serve so many, and enjoy it at the same time.

SIMON’S Rock College in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, offers a unique opportunity for high school or private school students to enter college one or two years early. It is a small, rural liberal arts college offering both A.A, and B.A. programs and has a good academic reputation. There are two Baha’is there who would love to have more devoted believers to help build a community. Teaching is uniquemore than 10 per cent (30) of the student body attended the first fireside. To hear more, write to Alex Blake, Simon’s Rock College, Great Barrington, MA 01230, or phone 413-528-9734. For school catalogs or information, write to the Admissions Office (same address).

TEACHING jobs in Colombia are relatively easy to obtain if one has a college degree or a teaching certificate. There are about eight American schools in Colombia, all of which pay well and often provide a housing allowance. English teachers are especially needed, usually requiring at least a BA in English. If you are a teacher and would like to help fill this goal of the Seven Year Plan, contact the International Goals Committee, Baha’j National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312869-9039.

SPIRITUAL Mothering Journal, a journal for mothers and fathers, is seeking an individual or group interested in becoming editor and staff of the journal starting in January 1985. Responsibilities include coordinating articles, selecting themes, editing, production, advertising, subscriptions, and distribution. Despite attempts to end the journal, it

NATIONAL BAI UND See ADS Page 27

[Page 17]

The American Baha’i

2 July 1984 ; 1 7

si

More than 60 children and 25 parents from 10 Bahá’í communities attended a recent session of the Portland, Oregon, Baha’ Metro

Goals

Continued From Page 6 bean islanders.

Dialects and vocal intonations used by Caymanians have puzzled linguists, but you should have no difficulty communicating with them. Their speech is a mixture of American southern drawl and English slur, with a Scottish lilt to end a statement, all combined to be charming.

Angiilla (1 pioneer). This is one of the islands under the National Spiritual Assembly of the Leeward Islands. It is an Associated State within the British Commonwealth, with an executive council under the Queen.

The small, flat coral-limestone island of some 22,400 acres is 70 miles north of St. Kitts.

There are no cities, only villages, and few stores. Retirement homes that can be rented by outsiders are being built by Anguillans, most of whom are transient, traveling back and forth to St. Maarten often. This is not a tourist island.

Anguillans are among the world’s best boat-builders. Their chief exports are salt and lobsters. There are no lakes on Anguilla, but there are lovely beaches.

The island has four health care centers, with emphasis on prenatal and postnatal care, child welfare, and family planning. Two medical officers and one dental surgeon live there. Primary and secondary schools are available.

Montserrat (1 pioneer). This is the second island under the National Spiritual Assembly of the Leeward Islands for which the U.S. has been given a pioneer goal. It is also an Associated State of Great Britain.

To get there, one must fly three and one-half hours from New York to Antigua, and 15 minutes from Antigua to Montserrat.

Iranians are welcome, especially

children’s classes. Shown are several of the children who are saying prayers before their class.

if they have British travel documents. Employment is hard to find, but there is a need for doc tors at the medical scho Teachers and others with skills that local people do not have are needed. Businesses must have native partners.

The authorities are quite positive toward the Faith, and the people are attracted to unity but are strongly fundamentalist Christian. There are 10 to 15 active Baha’is on the island.

There is a small tourist trade. Housing is $200 to $300 a month U.S. and food is expensive. The government is encouraging hotel investors. To this end, it has obtained an aircraft which provides supplementary services in and out of Montserrat and guarantees speedy connections to the island.

Radio Antilles provides a commercial broadcasting service in English, French and Spanish while Radio Montserrat is a local government-operated station.

A medical school and a technical school are there. The medical facilities are adequate, with a new hospital. Children who graduate from the local schools can transfer quite readily to U.S. colleges.

Because of differing sexual mores, it is best that women avid teaching men, and vice versa, bzcause intentions might be misconstrued. Dress, although casual, is more conservative than on some other islands.

Montserrat is one of the most

beautiful islands in the Caribbean. Tourist visas are good for 3-6 months, and residence visas are available after two years with property ownership, or seven years with an independent income. St. Lucia (1 pioneer). St. Lucia has its own National Spiritual Assembly. It is one of a chain of volcanic islands with steep hills and interior rain forests. It is 27 miles long and 14 miles wide.

Pictured with Dr. Walter White (center), the current chaplain of the Chapel of Four Chaplains at Temple University in Philad

A simple lifestyle is possible in comfortable, well-constructed and furnished houses. Mature couples, single men, single women with companions (never alone), and those with independent incomes are welcome.

The island is predominantly Roman Catholic. The Baha’i community numbers about 1,400 with 27 Assemblies. It needs consolidation and deepening so that the St. Lucians will arise and teach.

Ruhi Institute materials are being used more and more, and anyone who is familiar with their use would be welcome.

Teachers may find jobs in elementary, high school, or technical school if they arrive in early summer and submit applications for the fall semester. Otherwise, jobs are practically non-existent, even for St. Lucians.

Other possibilities are U.S. AID and the Peace Corps, or apply after arriving for jobs with medical, social services professions in government. It could take six months to a year to find a job.

Investment is encouraged for any business or industry that would provide nationals with employment and would reduce reliance on imports.

Housing is plentiful and inexpensive, depending on whether you are satisfied with modest accommodations and no luxuries.

St. Lucia is a two and one-half hour flight from Miami. There is good local public transport at reasonable cost. The languages are English and Patois (French Creole).

St. Vincent (2 pioneers). This island also has its own National Spiritual Assembly.

St. Vincent is one of the poorer islands in the Windward chain, but if one is on the island and has the requisite skills, work is relatively easier to find than on other islands.

Medical

specialists, teachers,

phia, Pennsylvania, are four Baha’is who were honored for humanitarian service during a recent observance at the chapel. They are

agriculturists, nutritionists, and lab technicians are needed. There are also many investment possibilities. .

Export businesses might work, and Iranians have had no problems, but they must apply for visas before leaving the U.S. Single women should not go alone, but single men are acceptable.

Formerly a British colony, St. Vincent is now a democracy with a parliamentary government. It is tropical, with a volcano to climb, and has abundant fruits and vegetables as well as many mosquitos.

Rent for a two-bedroom house is $150-$200 a month, and a teacher’s income may be $300 a month. Food costs $50-$60 a month, not including meat but including coffee and other such luxuries.

(left to right) Prudence Mason Runyan, Donald Camp, Rita Leydon and Robert Atkinsdn.

There are 1,000 Baha’is on the rolls, but not all are active. The Minister of Foreign Affairs lives next door to a family of pioneers, has read ‘‘Call to the Nations,” and is supportive. Some people are receptive and eager, others are closed to teaching efforts.

Numerous mini-buses provide relatively inexpensive transportation to most parts of St. Vincent. New Japanese cars are plentiful at reasonable prices.

If you'll write to the International Goals Committee, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039, you will be given more complete information and _ individualized consultation regarding whether you and your family might do well in one of these goal islands.

Bahda’is sweep Texas dulcimer contest

Baha’is took first place in all three state championship eontests at the third annual Lone Star State Dulcimer Festival held May 11-13 in Glen Rose, Texas.

Enayat Ziaie of Euless won first place in the hammer dulcimer competition; Steve Smith of Tulsa, Oklahoma, was the winne! the mountain dulcimer competition; and Mr. Smith and his wife, Jean, won top honors in the dulcimer ensemble contest.

Mr. Ziaie, a Persian Baha’i who has been in the U.S. for about 10 years, fascinated the judges by playing traditional Persian music on a santour which he had built.

Since the santour is an ancestor of the hammer dulcimer, differing only in the tuning, he was allowed to enter the contest, and won a trophy, cash, a new hammer dulcimer and paid entry into the National Hammer Dulcimer Competition.

Mr. Smith, who won first place last year in the Texas and Southern Regional hammer dulcimer contests and placed second in the

national competition, this year entered and won on a mountain dulcimer, a traditional American instrument that is strummed, picked or plucked while held in one’s lap.

He won a trophy, cash, a new mountain dulcimer, and paid entry into the National Mountain Dulcimer Competition.

Mrs. Smith, who joined her husband in the ensemble competition, plays both hammer and mountain dulcimer, and also sings.

Although Mr. Ziaie and the Smiths have performed many times in their own states, they met for the first time at the Texas festival and had ample opportunity~to teach the Faith during the weekend.

Next on the agenda is the national competition in September where Mr. Ziaie, Mr. Smith and possibly Mrs. Smith will compete in hammer dulcimer, and Mr. Smith will enter the mountain dulcimer competition as well.

[Page 18]

PERSIAN PAGE

The American Baha'i

18

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[Page 20]PERSIAN PAGE

The American Baha'i

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[Page 21]

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[Page 22]

I peteeresen aman: ueecateteamamen sea: eoreerer a ieee usraicancs nee aaccceeaeetenePaecsaeees ate aameey eaccetnitartarsc ier varies cineca

22

World 27 SUBJECTS YOU WOULD KNOW MORE ABOUT:

2. Health and Nutrition 12. The Deification of Jesus

"Twenty-two new Spiritual As 3. Work and the Economic Problem 13. Drug Abuse seniblies ‘were formed and’66 10: 4. The Social reece Alain Locke ae: The First aa bana eae: i calities were opened to the Faith 5. The Importance of Meditation 5. Mormonism and the Baha'i Fait as the result of a recent teaching 6. International Health Work 16. Four Kinds of Love as campaign in the Malemba Nkulu 7. The early years of Louis Gregory 17. The First 138 yedrs of the Baha'i Faith zone of Zaire. i 8. Bahd'u'llah's Prison Sentence 18. Robert Hayden at Pa comp Hse Pe 9. Spiritual Education 19. Bahd'{ Bhajans Fait traveting Gn foot forickay ‘10. Children and Television Violence 20. Freedom and Author ity miles. Each group contacted more than 1,000 people, and each en- 21. Congressional Resolutions , rolled more than 200 of them. 22. Walter Harke's Art One of the teams then decided 23. Juliet Thompson and Khalil Gibran to continue traveling for a five- 24. Mark Tobey feed ne C6 ce ed 25. Solving Urban Problems r localities ... 26. Raising Bilingual Children ,

One hundred-eight people were 27. The Persecution of the Baha'is in Iran

enrolled in the Faith in Sikkim during the last two weeks in De- IF YOU READ...

cember by a teaching team composed of nine Baha’ is. The team included two mem bers of the National Spiritual As- Y

sembly of Sikkim, one member of

the National Youth Committee, Cj gn Anne . and members of *several Local

Spiritual Assemblies ... .

One hundred-seven people were enrolled in the Faith last Decem ber and a new Spiritual Assembly Articles on every one of these subjects have appeared in recent issues of World was formed in Malawi’s southern : + ee Order. But it should really come as no surprise that this magazine has dealt

region ... Baha’is in the Andaman and with many of the major social and intellectual issues of the times. The

Nicobar Islands had completed by careful scrutiny of current affairs is really what this Baha'i journal is all February 2 the formation of their about. Its purpose is to stimulate, inspire, and serve araren people in their 20 goal Assemblies, thus paving search for relationships between religious thought and contemporary life. the way for the formation at Ridvan of jheir oun National Spiri- All back issues of World Order are available with the exception of the Nee Winter 1969/'70, the Fall 1971, and the Fall 1982 issues. Some issues have

The Baha’i Youth Academy at limited quantities, so order now to be assured of receiving the issues you Panchgani, India, devoted its sev- want. Write for order form. enth and eighth sessions last No

vember and December to courses for the secretaries of India’s State Teaching Committees and the edi tors of newsletters and magazines. World Order is a vital spiritual resource for contemplative minds, for thinking

The final session was marked by people like you. Why not fill out the subscription coupon below and mail.it today? It may-turn out to be the most thought-provoking decision you have made in a long time.

the presence of all five members of the Continental Board of Counsellors residing in India and eight members of that country’s National Spiritual Assembly ... The first Spiritual Assembly on the island of Tinian in the Mari

ana Islands has been elected in the C town of San Jose, and the island ° of Agrihan in the northern Mari- * Please enter my subscription to WORLD ORDER I enclose my check. bank draft, or money order for the amount indicated

anas has been opened to the Faith by a local pioneer ...

Zimbabwe’s roving Teaching Within United States: All other countries: Ease tee henes O1year ....$10.00 OO tyear ....$12.00 ly two days, the team enrolled 130 PRINT O2years ...$18.00 O 2years ...$22.00 new Baha’is and helped bring about the election of a Spiritual Assembly in Duku ... Ineo! ie

Connections Ltd., a television production company in Ancho- ADDRESS. ve

local Baha’is, recently won a oid 0P tor bea cary STATE AND COUNTRY 2

tary at the 26th annual Interna. tional Film and Television Festival oGitt From in New York City.

Its entry was a 30-minute film Sorry we are unable to provide billing service. Please enclose payment. titled ‘‘Alaska: America’s Energy Fronitier.””

Legge i ci nS pS ee eee et

[Page 23]

THE MEDIA

duly 1984

23

INTERMEDIA

News from the Office of Public Affairs

“,., imerease the use of press, radio and television for the proclamation of the Faith.”’—The Universal House of Justice, message to the Baha’is of the United States, Naw-Rúz 1979

°

Moving out!

As a result of the significant successes achieved in the last four years in the area of external relations, and animated by the desire to expand and consolidate our gains, the National Spiritual Assembly has established an Office of External Affairs to deal with the government, media, and leaders of thought.

The office will have branches in New York City and New Haven, Connecticut. Later, an office will be opened in Washington, D.C.

Heading the External Affairs Office will be Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh, the vice-chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly. The Public Affairs Office at the National Center has been placed under its supervision, and close contact will be maintained with the Persian Affairs Office and the National Center’s media production studio.

Shirley Lee has been named Public Affairs coordinator for the Baha’i network of local media committees and representatives, and will remain at the National Center.

Public Affairs outreach

The Baha’is of Sarasota, Florida, hosted a Sunday morning meeting May 6 with Public Affairs coordinator Shirley Lee. Media projects, news from the national Office of Public Affairs, and media methods were shared by some 25 western Florida Baha’is.

The success of this informal format portends more frequent visits to local communities by members of the staff of the Office of Public Affairs. Participants were mutually inspired to increase the use of today’s marvelous media channels to proclaim the Bahá’í Message.

Information for funeral directors

Attractive, newly designed kits for funeral directors are now available from the Office of Public Affairs. Has your community contacted funeral directors to inform them of Baha’f burial practices? Do you have a kit on hand should an urgent need arise?

The packet contains information about appropriate gravestone markings, a selection of Baha’i prayers for the dead, basic information about the Faith in America, a commentary on ‘‘Coming to Terms with Death,”’ and the pamphlet of the Encyclopedia Britannica description of the Faith. The cost is $5. Please make checks payable to the Baha’i Services Fund.

Baha’ is top the field!

Two of the new Baha’i TV public service spots, directed by Karl Krogstad and created and produced by Barer/Goldblatt and Associates, came out on top in the 17th annual Northwest Film and Video Seminar sponsored by the advertising industry in Washington, Oregon, California and two Canadian provinces.

The spots were judged:‘‘Best in the Northwest’? for TV psa’s (public service announcements) in the under-$5,000 category—which is where most of the competition exists. The judges had to view 33 hours of film and video spots before making a decision. The screening was at the Seattle Center Playhouse, and awards were presented at a banquet May 11.

On that same day, the Barer/Goldblatt 60-second radio spot on “‘Racism’’ received the 1984 Tri-City ‘‘Award of Excellence’’ presented by the Tri-Cities Ad Club Federation of Washington state.

So get your orders in now for these professionally produced, awardwinning spots. They’re certain to be accepted and used by radio and TV outlets in your community because they’re the best! (S of six Krogstad-Barer/Goldblatt psa’s, $20—introductory price until August. Price after August is $30. Racism radio psa, $5. Send orders to the Office of Public Affairs.)

Santa Fe’s ‘Fun(d) carnival’ raises $760

Baha’is in Santa Fe, New Mexico, raised more than $760 in a Unity Day Fun(d) Carnival Saturday, April 21, the first day of Rid van.

Despite cloudy and windy weather, some 40 believers from Santa Fe and surrounding communities bought hot dogs and coffee, threw darts at targets, posed for caricatures, and bid for a variety of auctioned items.

A puppet show, “The Search for Unity,’’ by the Santa Fe youth group, closed the event.

Among the highlights was the Persian-style auction of a 1950 first edition of Prescription for Living, signed by its author, the Hand of the Cause of God Amatu’l-Bahá Ruhiyyih Khanum, which had been willed to the local Baha’i library by Amy Brady Dwelly, a well-known and beloved early believer who was the first editor of Child’s Way magazine.

The winner of the auction promptly gave the book to a young Baha’i in another community as a birthday gift.

Do’a ensemble releases 4th album

Do’a World Music Ensemble, co-founded in 1974 by Randy Armstrong and Ken LaRoche, recently released its fourth album, Companions of the Crimson Coloured Ark, on Philo Records.

The album is dedicated to the Bahda’is in Iran and to all oppressed people throughout the world.

The New Hampshire-based ensemble: has toured professionally throughout the U.S. and Canada for the past nine years.

Its members perform original compositions reflecting j jazz, folk, cal and world music influences on more than 70 instruments from India, Africa, Asia and the Americas.

Do’a World Music Ensemble has recently expanded from a duo consisting of Randy Armstrong and Ken LaRoche to a quintet with the addition of Baha’i musicians Marty Quinn and Charlie Jennison and John Hunter, a friend of the Faith.

The ensemble recently completed a tour of the eastern U.S. with featured appearances at the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts in New York City and the Bear Mountain Festival of World Music and Dance.

The ensemble seizes the opportunity to proclaim the Faith at

Members of Do’a World Music Ensemble (left to right) Charlie Jennison, John Hunter, Randy Armstrong, Ken LaRoche, Marty

concerts, and many times coordinates firesides after performances with local Baha’i communities in the area.

Quinn. The Ensemble recently released its fourth album, Companions of the Crimson Coloured Ark, on Philo Records.

For more information about Do’a World Music Ensemble, please write to Friends of Do’a,

Dover, NH 03820.

24 attend Green Bay-sponsored conference designed to lend support to isolated believers

On April 7, the Spiritual Assembly of Green Bay, Wisconsin, sponsored an “‘Isolated Believers’ Conference”? whose purpose was to give support to isolated believers in their efforts to achieve “theroic deeds’’ for the Faith.

ievers and small Groups, primarily in the northeastern section of Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

Twenty-four adults attended representing the communities of Chippewa Falls, Eau Claire, DePere, Green Bay, Algoma, Kewaunee, Marinette, Sturgeon Bay, Mosinee, Menasha and Appleton, Wisconsin, and Iron River, Michigan.

The guest speaker was Auxiliary Board member Stephen Birkland who compared the similarities between the isolated believer and our Iranian brothers and sisters, as both are very reliant on prayer, meditations and the Holy Writ ings.

He also spoke about the practical aspects of the Faith—where physical goals symbolize the spiritual. To elucidate the idea, he used the House of Worship and the creation of its dependencies as an example of the material representing the spiritual.

Mrs. Lori Block, an assistant to Mr. Birkland, spoke about how the isolated believers can further identify themselves with their

community, telling of the more than 44,000 isolated centers and small Groups that have within them the potential to become future Local Assemblies.

OTHER speakers were Dale Starr of Algoma; Colleen Brandt, public information representative for the Bahdé’i community of Green Bay; Ilan Bamber of Marinette; Judy Moran, representing the District Teaching Committee of Northern Wisconsin and Upper Michigan; and Mary and Chauncey Washburn of Mosinee.

Mr. Birkland closed the con ference with inspirational stories of the early believers in Iran and how the “‘power of Divine assistance’’ enabled many of those early believers to carry out acts of heroism in arising to teach the Cause.

Special mention should be given to the Baha’i Office of Public Affairs and National Teaching Committee who not only supported the conference but also furnished materials (as handouts) geared to the special needs of isolated believers and small Groups.

National Assembly names advisory panel to assist social, economic development

In response to the message of October 20, 1983, from the Universal House of Justice, the National Spiritual Assembly has appointed a new advisory committee to assist in the implementation of its social and economic programs.

The members of the committee are Alice Bathke of Albuquerque, New Mexico; William Davis, Menlo Park, California; Anne Rowley, Florence, South Carolina; and Dr. James Turpin, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

As its first task, the committee has been asked to plan a national conference to discuss the message from the House of Justice on social and economic development,

identify individuals within the Baha’i community who have expertise in those areas, and examine the developmental experience. of the Baha’i and non-Baha’i world?

In the Ridvan message from the Universal House of Justice, the American Baha’i community was given the goal of starting one or two programs on Indian Reservations. The committee is responsible for overseeing the comple-tion of that goal.

Letters of inquiry may be directed to the committee through the Office of the Secretary, Baha’i panoral Center, Wilmette, IL

ls

acre snc REA RRR SR TAR RES AS RS

[Page 24]PAGINA HISPANA

The American Baha'i

24

La jornada termina; esperanzas para el futuro

Por REGINA ANCHONDO

Los baha’is de Lapwai y la reserva Nez Perce nos encontraron en el aeropuerto de Lewiston, Idaho, y nos arrebataron en una casa movil gigante a la reserva.

YA HABIA cita para conocer el consejo tribal y algunos oficiales del Buiro de Asuntos Indigenas, y una visita a la clinica para Clemente Pimantel que se arreglé anteriormente en North Dakota.

La visita a la clinica resulté un asunto complicado. El médico preguntaba a Clemente encuanto a sus sintomas, yo traducia la pregunta al espafiol para Sabino Ortega y el la comunicaba a Clemente en quechua. Al responder Clemente, todo se hizo al revés.

Sacando los rayos X se volvié una situacién bien cémica. La téc- nica del rayo X sacaba la cabeza y decia -Digale que respire asi ... -Entonces yo traducia y demostraba para Sabino, y el en su turno entraba al cubiculo para explicarlo a Clemente. Hubiera sido una pelicula silente muy chistosa.

Mientras esperamos las recetas de los médicos en la clinica, aprovechamos la oportunidad para hablar con todos en la sala de recepcién y invitarles personalmente al programa de la noche.

Una sefiora entré y reconocié a los sudamericanos inmediata » mente. Ella estuvo en Rapid City, South Dakota, como participante en un congreso nacional para educadores indigenas y vid las noticias de nuestra Ilegada al estado en la television.

ESTO nos hizo meditar sobre el mimero de otros educadores cuyas tribus no Ilegamos a visitar, pero que, a pesar de todo, Ilegaron a saber del Camino del Sol.

EL primer programa entre los Nez Perce fue maravilloso. Miembros del consejo nos dieron la bienvenida y nos regalaron plumas de Aguila. ;

Uno de los baha’is nativos sirvid de maestro de ceremonias y lo hizo de maravilla, presentando al Camino del Sol y coordinando el

intercambio vivo de bailes que lo siguid.

Celebramos el Nacimiento del Bab el dia siguiente con baha’is de la regién nortefia de Idaho. Después Doug Harris, nuestro chofer, corrié a todos de la casa para que el equipo descansara un poco antes del programa planeado para la noche.

Mientras algunos dormitamos los sudamericanos salieron a caminar sobre los cerros cercanos.

Muy temprano el dia siguiente salimos para el estado de Washington y las ultimas visitas de la

gira.

Yo me quedé atras para hacer algunos arreglos mientras los otros salieron rumbo a la reserva Yakima.

LOS arreglos terminados, segui después con dos baha’is. Cuando llegamos a la reserva ya se habian reunido con el consejo tribal.

Nos encontramos en la tienda de un baha’i. Mientras yo miraba una coleccién de cuentas, una baha’i me presenté a una sefiora indigena que acababa de entrar.

Ella agarré la manga de mi chaqueta y me pidié que traduciera lo que ella decia para los sudamericanos. Desde que entré en la tienda sintia que ellos tenian un poder espiritual muy fuerte. Mientras me lo dijo los ojos brillaban con lagrimas.

Tuvimos la noche libre, pero el dia siguiente fue Ileno de activi Empez6 con una entrevista en una radioemisora hispaha, seguido por una boda tradicional a la cual les habia invitado el consejo tribal el dia anterior. Resulté que el novio era hijo de la sefiora a la cual conocimos en la tienda.

EL programa que se presenté esa noche en la reserva comenz6 con una cena a la cual asistieron por lo menos 300 personas.

Hasta nuestros amigos de Idaho aparecieron. Después del programa Sabino hizo una corta entrevista para television.

El dia siguiente asistimos a la

(provided by the nearby Arlington Baha’i community), and fellowship. The Mansfield Baha’i community is comprised of 14 adults, two youth and five children.

escuela baha’i, otra recepcién en el centro cultural yakima, y tamos la casa de la sefiora hispana que entrevisté el equipo el dia anterior a su invitacion.

Nuestros espiritus quedaron un poco apagados por la noticia del fallecimiento del muy amado Consejero Rail Pavén, quien habia trabajado muy estrechamente con los miembros del equipo.

En la mafiana partimos para Seattle, parando para una visita corta en la reserva Suquamish a la pedida de un baha’i sioux que vive entre ellos.

Hubo una reunién muy cordial con los mayores y miembros del consejo, seguido por una visita al museo tribal donde miembros de una familia nos regalaron paquetes de salmén ahumado para llevar.

ENCONTRAM6OS a los baha’is de Seattle en una recepcién esa noche y después nos acomodamos en las casas de nuestros anfitriones.

El dia siguiente acompafié a Egon Nieto y Leopoldo Richard al servicio de inmigracién y naturalizacién para extender sus visas para este pais.

Leopoldo queria visitar a su hijo en Utah y regresar a Arizona y Nuevo México mientras Egon pensaba visitar a su hermano y cufiada en Oregon.

Nos encontramos con los demas después y los sudamericanos comieron su primera comida china. Después regresamos para preparar las maletas para nuestra salida el dia siguiente y planear el programa de la noche.

Al salir de Seattle nos esperaba mucho que hacer. Hubo una entrevista por radio cerca de Bellingham, almuerzo con los mayores de la tribu lummi, una presentacién publica en esa reserva, y en la tarde una entrevista de television para un programa cristiano.

EL DIA siguiente salimos para ‘Neah Bay en la reserva Makah, donde esperamos participar en la reunidn grande con el otro equipo Camino del Sol que viajé por Canada y Alaska y los amigos que todos habiamos invitado en el camino.

Llegamos alli en la tarde. La reserva es hermosa de manera salvaje con costa de mar y cerros arbolados.

Me recordé de los pueblos de pesca en Nueva Inglaterra. Cenamos en casa de baha’is locales y durante la comida llegaron amigos de varios lugares. Después los sudamericanos se alojaron en el motel de un creyente makah, mientras los otros fuimos a otro hotel.

En la mafiana visitamos las oficinas tribales de los makah y en eso Ilegaron los del otro equipo. Fue una reunion feliz para todos, quienes se conocieron anteriormente en Panama durante la orientacién.

La reunién formal empez6 el

dia siguiente, y los baha’is de este pais, Canadé y Alaska hablaron sobre los éxitos del Camino del Sol en sus regiones y formularon planes para aprovechar de la buena voluntad esparcido por ellos.

DESPUES de una visita a la playa sagrada en la tarde cenamos con los mayores de la tribu, y asi empezé una experiencia memorable.

Al terminar la cena nos sentamos con los miembros’ del Camino del Sol sentados juntos. Algunos empezaron a cantar una cancién de bienvenida y todos se pusieron en pie.

La cancién duro por lo menos media hora y mientras cantaban, todos pasaron en frente de los huéspedes para darles la mano.

Fue la bienvenida mas hermosa y conmovedora que he visto. Mientras pasaban también pusieron billetes en una caja como regalo a los huéspedes para su via je de regreso, otro costumbre de ellos.

La entrega de obsequios y el programa del Camino del Sol siguieron. Entonces nuestros anfitriones makah hicieron algunos bailes tradicionales, muy distintos a todo que habiamos visto hasta la fecha.

La noche terminéd con todos bailando a un tambor que los baha’is indigenas de Portland, Oregon, trajeron y tocaron.

La consulta reanud6 la mafiana siguiente y continué hasta la hora de almorzar. Se despedieron todos y después los miembros de los equipos y los Consejeros y miembros del Cuerpo Auxiliar presentes nos quedamos para consultar sobre nuestras experiencias.

El sentimiento sobresaliente fue de agradecimiento a todos los nuevos amigos, bahd’i y no baha’i, cuyos caras y hechos levaremos siempre en los corazones.

La persecucion de creyentes en Iran sigue; quatro baha’is mas ejecutados A todas las Asambleas Espirituales Nacionales

Queridos amigos baha’is,

La Casa Universal de Justicia ha enviado un telex a Asambleas Espirituales Nacionales seleccionadas el 13 de abril, trasmitiéndoles la in formacién que se detalla abajo:

SIGUIENDO TEMA NUESTRO MENSAJE 10/11 ABRIL ACABAMOS DE RECIBIR AFLIGENTE NOTICIA EJECUCION POR PELOTON FUSILAMIENTO EN PRISION DE EVIN TIHRAN

SIGUIENTES CREYENTES:

SR. KAMRAN LUTFi, PROFESOR UNIVERSITARIO, DE 32 ANOS DE EDAD, LLEVADO PRESO 5 DE MAYO 1983.

SR. RAHiM RAHIMiYAN, HOMBRE DE NEGOCIOS, DE 50 ANOS DE EDAD, LLEVADO PRESO 5 DE MAYO 1983.

SR. YADU’LLAH SABIRIYAN, GERENTE DE IMPRENTA, DE 60 ANOS DE EDAD, LLEVADO PRESO 9 FEBRERO 1982.

YA QUE EJECUCIONES NO ANUNCIADAS Y CUERPOS ENTERRADOS SIN CEREMONIA Y SIN INFORMAR A FAMILIAS PARIENTES, FECHA EXACTA EJECUCIONES DESCONOCIDA. SE TEME OTROS PRISIONEROS BAHA’IS TUVIERON MISMO

DESTINO.

AHORA HECHO ESTABLECIDO QUE ‘ABDU’L-HUSAYN SHAKIRI-HASANZADIH TAMBIEN FUE EJECUTADO POR PELOTON DE FUSILAMIENTO EN VEZ DE MORIR MISTERIOSAMENTE EN LA PRISION COMO SE INFORMO.

DEBIDO GIRO OMINOSO SITUACION BAHA’i IRAN PEDiMOSLES PROCEDER DAR PUBLICIDAD PERSECUCIONES RE CIENTES INCLUYENDO INFORMACION

TURAS MENSAJE ANTERIOR.

RESPECTO TOR CASA UNIVERSAL DE JUSTICIA

13 DE ABRIL DE 1984

2 Baha’i law students honor graduates

, Yvor Stoakley of is, and Anthony K. Reid of Chicago, were honor graduates this spring at Northwestern University’s School of Law.

Mr. Reid, who received two degrees, an MBA and Juris Doctor, won a second place award for his paper, ‘Secondary Liability Under Section 12(2) of the Securities Act of 1933,’ which was submitted to and accepted for publication by the journal Law Review.

He will work for a law firm in Palo Alto, California, where his wife, Amy, enters the Stanford

University Law School in the fall. Mr. and Mrs. Reid both became Baha’is during the past year.

Mr. Stoakley, who received a Juris Doctor degree, was a member of the 1983 Moot Court team which represented Northwestern University in Washington, D.C., at which time he achieved the first chair.

The accomplishment won. for him the position of adviser to this year’s team that won fifth place.

He will work for a Chicago law firm which is involved primarily in corporate law.

[Page 25]RACE UNITY

duly 1984

25

‘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)

Bahá’ís from North and South

Carolina were joined by 35 guests from area churches January 15 for a World Religion Day

in Tryon, North Car

was co-sponsored by the Baha’is of Landrum, South Carolina, and Tryon. Speakers represented Judaism, Christ y, Islam and the

Baha'i Faith. Pictured (left to right) are Judy Glassman, a Baha’ from Tryon; Aux

bi David Kraus; Sultan Suluki Mustafa; and the Rev. Darryl Maxwell.

Letter

Friends mustn’t ignore history’s lesson

in dealing with ‘Most Challenging Issue’

Dear Friends:

As a part of its continuing effort to increase the community’s awareness of ‘‘The Most Challenging Issue,” our Race Unity Committee (in San Diego) recently sponsored an informative/educational presentation, ‘‘The Black Experience in the History of America.””

DURING the discussion, one of the questions referred to a ‘‘negative approach’’ to the black/white issue.

Innocent though it was, one comment was to the effect that “‘we shouldn’t dwell on the past.’”

Yet, everything we know about learning and the acquisition of knowledge—regardless of the subject or discipline—requires that we study its history for even a basic understanding.

I believe there are many injustices in our society that are too often overlooked (even among Baha’is) and taken for granted as not being of any significance.

Young Baha’i captures top science fair awards

Táhirih Z. Stoakley, a 12-yearold Baha’i from Glen Ellyn, Illinois, recently won first place awards in science fairs at Hadley Junior High School, where she is a seventh grade student, and the regional fair at the University of Illinois Circle Campus in Chicago, entitling her to compete in the state Science Fair in ChampaignUrbana where, competing mainly against high school students, she won a second place award for her project, a lie detector.

Táhirih is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Xuylor Stoakley.

pean history are required for study in our schools and included in curricula from the earliest grades through college. Yet, the planned and systematic exclusion of the black contribution/experience (also brown and Native American) in the building of this nation from nearly all textbooks and classes—except for the annual references during ‘“‘black history month’’ by some—continues to be accepted.

THIS exclusion contributes to at least two negative factors:

1. Black children continue to be formally educated with little knowledge of their heritage, creating an historical identity gapidentity that is vital and necessary to one’s personal growth and development.

2. Whites and others are prevented from learning and knowing the total (true) history of America, which hinders the possibility of raising their level of awareness and consciousness with respect to blacks.

As most of us know, the phenomenon of racial prejudice crosses all racial and ethnic boundaries, and it was ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Who told American Baha’ijs that racial prejudice is “‘the most challenging issue” facing this country. All Baha’is have the responsibility (in the words of Bahá’u’lláh) to “‘close your (our) eyes to racial differences ...’”

We must instead open our minds and hearts to discuss this issue whenever appropriate, just as we might the history of other people who make up our diverse society.

Jihmye Collins San Diego, California

Trends

New book sees resurgence of black Islamic groups in American society

The two predominantly black groups of Islam in the U.S. are once again experiencing a resurgence, according to C. Eric Lincoln, author of the 1961 book, The Black Muslims in America.

Dr. Lincoln, speaking recently at the College of Charleston, South Carolina, attributed their growth to the new orthodoxy of the American Muslim Mission movement, headed by Walith D. Muhammad, and the recent political activism of the Nation of Islam, headed by Louis Farrakhan.

Walith Muhammad, the son of Elijah Muhammad, who founded the Nation of Islam (Black Muslims), was educated at the Islamic University in Cairo, Egypt.

When his father died in 1975, Walith turned his back on power and wealth (or, as Dr. Lincoln puts it, ‘‘on being the only big frog in a small pond’’) to bring the Nation into orthodoxy.

The decision cost him many adherents and assured the creation of a separate sect.

Walith Muhammad dismissed many of the teachings of his father, such as that God is a superior black man, that whites are devils, that blacks must eat only one meal a day, and that women may work outside the home only if they work in Muslim establishments.

Dr. Lincoln characterizes the members of the American Muslim Mission movement, who are Sunni Muslims, as being patriotic as well as promoters of international brotherhood.

The Nation of Islam, says Dr. Lincoln, also has softened many of its teachings under the tutelage of Louis Farrakhan, a protegé of Malcolm X.

His followers also talk of brotherhood, but they have no faith in the American system.

Dr. Lincoln, who is a professor of religion and culture at Duke University, the author of 10 books and co-author of several others, says black Americans are being drawn to these two groups for seemingly different yet quite similar reasons.

In embracing the international brotherhood of Islam, he says, the American Muslim Mission movement gives blacks a sense of belonging and protection.

“Under international Islam,” he says, ‘‘it is felt that the persecution of blacks will cease. No Christian nations came to the rescue of blacks when they were being lynched in this country. Under Islam this would never happen.”’

The Nation of Islam, says Dr. Lincoln, offers what it always has, “a program for their (blacks’) condition here in the U.S.

“Tt (deals) with the problems of racism, economics and powerlessness. And there is the excitement of participating in something that might shape the world.’”

Note: It is anticipated that by the end of the century there will be six million Muslims (eastern and American) in the U.S. On March 2, members of the Presbyterian Church in the U.S. met in Atlanta, Georgia, to learn more about Islam and how it will affect the nation.

A dozen Baha’i youth from Ohio and Michigan have come together to form the ‘Neda Baha’i Choir’ The choir, which sings in Engli

Persian and Arabic, i: is offering its services to Baha’is anywhere in the U.S. or Canada. Pictured are (back row left to right) the choir’s conductor, Mehrdad Fazli of Sylvania, Ohio; Farshid Ahmady

Izady, Shahriar Farhadi, Kamiar Khani Oskouee, and (front row left to right) Shiva Toufighi, Sepideh Meshinchi, Zh: Fazli, Naghmeh Farhadi, Dina Toufi Not shown are choir members Hooshmand Anvari, Shahrokh Khani Oskouee, and Shadan Tofighi Ghamsari.

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[Page 26]

The American Baha’i

VIE Chart Con tinme a rennet) feasardtay Mock Tale! Current Month Info (Jamal) District Name Membership Number of Percentage of _ Membership Number of Percentage of as of.12/9/83 participants participation _—_as of 5/4/84 participants participation Louisiana N 84 n Bal 81 "1 13.6 Louisiana $ 536 21 3.9 506 21 42 Maine 216 26 12.0 215 32 149 Maryland W/D.C. 752 79 10.5 766 62 8.1 Massachusetts 946 103 10.9 944 2 97 Michigan Mainland 1171 126 10.8 1157 BI 13 166 26 15.7 158 25 15.8 434 9 18.2 432 35 8.1 415 18 43 395 20 5. Missouri “657 15 14 648 65 10.0 Montana 347 36 10.4 346 34 9.8 Navajo/Hopi 370 9 2.4 365 12 3.3 Nebraska 307 45 14.7 294 47 16.0 Nevada N 165 14 85 176 12 68 Nevada S 150 16 10.7 . 1S4 36 23.4 New Hampshire 339 44 13.0 351 48 13.7 New Jersey 693 B 13 696 4 10.6 New Mexico $/Texas W979 2 22 993 2 2.2 New Mexico N 481 37 77 4n 55 17 New York E 1,254 3 TA 1244 89 12 New York W 582 B 13.4 587 1 13.1 North Carolina C 636 31 49 624 4 38 North Carolina E 654 7 26 645 12 19 North Carolina W 408 32 78 395 30 16 North Dakota 137 16 17 126 20 15.9 Ohio N < 551 66 12.0 539 6 1.9 Ohio S 388 46 118 388 36 93 Oklahoma E 358 26 13 328 7 52 Oklahoma W 499 28 56 479 31 65 Oregon E 216 4 14 264 nl 42 Oregon W 1,255 103 82 1254 7 93 Pennsylvania E 452 60 33 451 49 10.9 Pennsylvania W 195 26 13.3 196 32 16.3 Rhode Island 108 13 12.0 104 12 ns South Carolina C ~ 1,314 10 0.76 1298 15 1.2 South Carolina E No.1 2,397 3 0.12 2337 4 02 South Carolina E No. 2 2,017 6 0.29 1994 H, 0.4 South Carolina N 821 4 0.48 805 3 0.4 South Carolina $ No. 1 ~627 6 1.0 602 9 15 South Carolina No 2 794 4 05 796 7 09 South Carolina W 386 15 39 383 2 3.7 South Dakota 266. 7 26 261 8 3 Tennessee E 159 2B 145 156 1912.2 Tennessee W 300 1963 290 18 62 Texas C No. 1 528 34 64 513 33 6.4 Texas C No. 2 105 3 29 97 5 5.2 Texas E No. | 1,269 83 65 1279 68 49 Texas E No. 2 838 0 14 856 60 70 Texas N 186 B 70 176 10 57 Texas S 219 12 5.5 206 7 73 Utah 251 29 ns 237 21 89 Vermont 156 20 12.8 154 24 15.6 670 3 19 on 3 49 i 538 40 74 54 35 65 Washington NW 1011 eS) 92 1003 95 95 Washington SW 356 38 10.7 360 35 9.7 West Virginia 178 15 84 175 18 103 Wis. N/Peninsular Mich. 237 41 173 246 40 16.3 Wisconsin S 757 130 172 747 100 134 Wyoming 151 15 10.0 150 13 87

5. Why has America been chos- which a “sore-tried Faith” must

Quiz en for its unique mission? pass, Can you arrange the follow Continued From Page 5

price. Of course, the individual items may also be purchased separately.

This is the first time that a course developed specifically for the National Treasurer’s Representative program has been made available to the community at large.

We join Counsellor Khan in urging the friends to take advantage of this special opportunity to study an exciting and inspiring topic.

And now, the commercial message over, we return to our midsummer wake up quiz:

(a) America was chosen for some mysterious purpose that will be revealed in the future; (b) America was chosen because of the evils in its society; (c) America was chosen because of the inherent excellence of its people; (d) America was chosen because, as a nation, it has special merit.

6. What is the cause of the evils that afflict American society?

(a) Ungodliness; (b) prejudice; (c) materialism; (d) sex and drugs.

7. Name three barriers standing between man and God that hinder man from attaining God’s pres ence. 8. Shoghi Effendi has described the “‘progressive stages’ through

ing stages in the correct order?

__— Complete Emancipation

——. Unmitigated Obscurity

___ State Religion

_—— Active Repression

__— Independent Faith

—— Baha’i World Commonwealth

—— Baha’i State

Get your own copy of the course ‘‘America’s Spiritual Destiny,”’ dig in and find the answers to these questions.

‘There can be no limit to one’s contributions ...” National Baha’i Fund

Wilmette, IL 60091

Hermine Isaac,

to Poland and Hungary, receives a special commemorative pin on behalf of Mayor Tom Bradley of

Los Angeles from Eve Catros member of the mayor’s staff, on the occasion of Mrs. Isaac’s 100th birthday February 9.

Former pioneer to Hungary, Poland marks 100th birthday .

Hermine Bauer Isaac, a former Baha’ pioneer to Hungary and Poland, recently celebrated her 100th birthday and 31 years as a Baha'i.

MANY Bahá’í friends visited Hermine on this occasion at the convalescent home in Los Angeles where she now resides.

Eve Catron, a member of Los Angeles Mayor Tom Bradley’s staff, presented her with a special memorial pin on behalf of the mayor.

Hermine was born February 9, 1884, in what is now known as Krakow, Poland, but was at that time a part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

As a young woman she earned a degree from the Vienna Conservatory of Music. She also sided with Polish patriots seeking a unified, independent Poland, and participated in the early Zionist movement, which was unpopular among her peers.

In 1910, in Budapest, she married businessman John Isaac, and the couple had two daughters.

The Isaacs moved to New York City in 1947, and Mr. Isaac died six years later. That same year, 1953, she heard of the Baha’i Faith while in Dumont, New Jersey.

IN A TAPE of her recollections, Hermine said she became quite excited upon hearing about the Faith and within a few weeks was ready to become a Baha’i, but was told she must first study more. Later that year she joined the Faith.

After moving to Los Angeles in 1955 to be with one of her daughters, she held firesides and deepenings in her home, and frequently attended Baha’i meetings, but felt it was not enough for Baha’u’ lah.

“I wanted to pioneer to my homeland where they knew nothing about the Faith,”” she said. “‘I had written to friends and relatives about the Faith, but it was difficult to interest them from so far away.””

After a 16-year absence from her native land, Hermine returned in 1963 to Poland and Hungary as a pioneer—at the age of 79.

She lived most of the time in Budapest, near her other daughter, but also spent two years in Krakow.

In the early ’60s it was politically dangerous to speak openly of the Faith in Poland or Hungary, and the U.S. National Assembly urged her to exercise caution.

STILL, Hermine managed to find opportunities to share the Faith. She later recalled one such meeting with a college professor in Krakow.

Hermine first taught him the Baha’i principles without mentioning the Faith. ‘‘When the man became excited,”’ she said, ‘‘I told him about Bahá’u’lláh.””

In their following meetings, she said, he wanted only to speak of the Faith.

Later, the professor wrote to say that he had given a presentation on the Faith to fellow Esperantists in Krakow.

Hermine was concerned that he might endanger himself by speaking so openly, but he reassured her, saying the group wanted to know everything he could tell them about the Baha’i Faith.

When Hermine lived in Budapest she was the city’s only Baha’. Although forbidden to teach, she said she occasionally met Hungarians who had heard of the Faith in other parts of Europe.

At age 95 she returned to California, leaving behind one new Baha’i in Budapest.

Of her work as a pioneer, Hermine says, ‘‘It is not to my credit if people were interested. I am only a tool in the Hand of Baha?u’llah.””

Teaching Fever Is CONTAGIOUS! have YOU Caught the Fever Yet?

_ ere er ERENT RR RL TE

[Page 27]The American Baha'i

27

duly 1984

I 7 BS

Thirteen of the 123 preliminary pioneering goals assigned to the U.S. in the Five Year Plan are filled, and an additional 38 pioneers are ready to leave by the end of the year to settle in a dozen more goal communities, according to a report from the International Goals Committee.

The preliminary stage of the new Plan calls for pioneers to settle in 57 countries, islands and territories ...

Nearly 4,500 people have registered to attend the St. Louis Conference with registration forms continuing to arrive at the Baha’i National Center at the rate of about 100 a day ... Ce

The Spiritual Assembly of Baltimore, Maryland, hosts a tea party to commemorate the 65th anniversary of the Assembly’s establishment.

Several Baha’is who are longtime Baltimore residents share their recollections of ‘the early days of the Faith in Baltimore.

The Baltimore Assembly, the first in that state, was formed in 1909, and that same year its chairman visited ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in ‘Akká and delivered a letter to Him from the Baha’is of Mary land ...

Baha’i youth in Fresno, California, plan a successful weeklong proclamation campaign that includes a proclamation by the mayor, radio and newspaper publicity, a booth at a shopping center, and the distribution of more than 8,000 copies of a special “‘newspaper’’ that includes information about the Faith and the schedule of activities for the proclamation week.

Baha’is address audiences at California State University in Fresno and Fresno City College ...

Six Bahd’{ musicians using the

name ‘“‘Day-Star’’ perform in various localities in northern Idaho and eastern Washington state each weekend under the sponsorship of their District Teaching Committees. The group appears in Moses, Idaho; Spokane, Wenatchee, Pasco, Seattle, and Walla Walla, Washington, and plans to perform at the St. Louis Conference in August ...

A two-day on-campus proclamation is the first event sponsored by the recently formed Baha’i Club at Southeastern Massachusetts University in North Dartmouth,

The campaign includes a display of Baha’ materials in the student union and an article on the Faith in the university’s newspaper.

Ads

Continued From Page 16

thrives with a life of its own. Plans for incorporation are in progress. The present editor/publisher would love to see her vision for the journal grow. Contact Melinda Armstrong, P.O. Box 128, Dover, NH 03820.

HOMEFRONT pioneers are needed in Pacific Grove, on California’s Monterey Peninsula, whose Assembly is in serious jeopardy. There are three military installations and a large private hospital nearby. The area is crosscultural, and the climate ideal. For more information please write to the Spiritual Assembly of Pacific Grove, P.O. Box ‘‘HF,”” Pacific Grove, CA 93950.

CASSETTE tape is urgently needed of the children’s public speaking program that was presented at the first National Baha’i Child Education Conference by the undersigned on Saturday evening, May 26, at the Baha’i House of Worship. It would be appreciated if anyone who tape recorded that evening’s program, or anyone who knows someone who did record it, would contact Mrs. Gayle Woolson,

Evanston, IL 60202. Will reimburse.

PSYCHIATRIST needed for lovely island in the Caribbean. Information about qualifications can be obtained from the International Goals Committee, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312-869-9039).

MEDIA project on the martyrdoms of Zhinus and Hushang and Shiva Mahmudi. Need taped or written reminiscences of those who knew them, as well as tapes of their own voices, video and/or film footage from their appearances on media, photos, letters, documents, scientific essays (pref Brittingham Continued From Page 4 California, Oregon, Washington, Wyoming, Utah, and very briefly, in Reno, Nevada,’’ she said. ‘I have given the Message in one church in Arizona and three in California, to employees of the lunch room of the Great Northern Shipping Dock, Seattle, to army boys at Fort Wright, Spokane, in the state prison, Salt Lake City, and to Metaphysical, Theosophical and many other gatherings in halls and homes, having thus addressed up to January 1, 1919, 133 assemblages.’”

HER EFFORTS in Douglas, Arizona, helped establish the first Baha’i community in that state.

In a moving address which she delivered in Chicago in 1916, Mrs. Brittingham described five of the Tablets of the Divine Plan, recently received from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, as the greatest call the Master had ever given to the American Bahá’í community, and urged every Baha’i to rise up im

erably in English, but Persian acceptable). Please mail to RFR,

Weston, CT 06883 U.S.A.

HOMEFRONT pioneers are needed to help consolidate the Spiritual Assembly of Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Many employment opportunities in the area including the University of North Carolina and a major teaching hos il; Duke University and hospital; and the Research Triangle Park. Help is available for locating a home and job. For more information, contact Barbara Pyle, secretary, Spiritual Assembly of Chapel Hill, P.O. Box 1065, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, or phone 919-929-3331.

WANTED: The National Baha’i Archives Committee is seeking diaries and personal recollections of pilgrimages to Haifa, especially for the period 1898-1957. Anyone having such materials which he or she would be willing to donate to the National Baha’i Archives should write to the Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

YOUR HELP is needed to record history. A book is being compiled on ‘‘The Hands of the Cause of God” including short stories, brief biographies, and unique photographs (return assured). Please contact B. Rainwater Nichols, . Sparks, NV 89431, or phone 702-358-7370.

THE BAHA’{ community of Huntsville, Texas, needs active Baha’ is to help strengthen its Assembly. Huntsville is the home of Sam Houston State University, a state-supported school of about 10,500 students that is known for its programs in criminal justice, teacher education, and business. If you are not a student, Huntsville, a city of 25,000 about 60 miles north of Houston, still has much to offer including job op

mediately to the field of action in response to His call.

In 1920 ‘Abdu’l-Bahá asked Mrs. Brittingham to visit Philadelphia, which she did not once but several times.

During one of her last visits to the Philadelphia home of Ethel and Jessie Revell, Mrs. Brittingham presented a series of radio talks on the principles of perfect justice.

In one of these addresses, entitled ‘‘Progress,”’ she explained the only way in which to establish Divine Law throughout the world without ever mentioning the word “Baha’i.’”

Mrs. Brittingham died January 28, 1924, in the Revell home in Philadelphia.

The beloved Guardian, Shoghi Effendi, acclaimed her ‘‘immortal services’ and referred to her as a “disciple of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.”’

A photograph of Mrs. Brittingham is among those of outstanding champion-builders of the Faith which hang in the Mansion at Bahji.

portunities through the school dis- Write to Dave and Helene Van

trict or the Texas Department of Manen, . BeuCorrections. Interested? Please lah, CO 81023, or phone 303-485contact the Spiritual Assembly of 3191.

Huntsville, P.O. Box 1836,

Huntsville, TX, or phone 409-291- HELP! Does anyone out there 2634.

have extra copies of Release the Sun or All Things Made New? If you have an extra copy of either and don’t mind parting with one or the other, I would be most happy to purchase them from you. Write to Gwynne Taylor, Kalispell, MT

ST. LUCIA, part of the Windward Islands in the Caribbean, has several medical and health positions opening now and later in 1984. Needed are general practitioners, internists, dentists, radiologists, dermatologists, pediatricians, ophthalmologists, optometrists, obstetrics-gynecologists, urologists, »pharmacists, a psychiatrist, dental hygienists, lab technicians, and nurses. For more information contact the International Goals Committee, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

59901.

A BAHAV’i-RUN school in Honduras needs someone to run its boarding school. This person would have to plan meals, budget and buy provisions, maintain discipline and a home-like atmosphere among the students (boys, and girls between 7-16 years). The job provides housing and a salary adequate to support an individual or couple. For more information, write to the International Goals Committee, Baha’i National Cen ARE YOU ‘“‘home-schooling”’ your Baha’i children or have you formed your own Baha’i school? If so, please contact us. We are two home-schooling families who wish to correspond with other Ba- ter, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone ha’i families with similar interests. 312-869-9039. —————————EEE

In Memoriam

J. Chester Allen Jr. Anna Howard Geneva Pringle San Diego, CA Canon City, CO Ridgeville, SC December 1983 April 30, 1984 July 1979 Shirley Ann Beall Clarence James Jake Rogers Lumpkin, GA Latta, SC Washington, NC Date Unknown 1983 Date Unknown Curtis Bell Elijah James Earl Royster Terrell, TX Latta, SC Salem, MA

Date Unknown 1981 August 12, 1983 Sarah Bradley Dellena Joyner Naomi W. Smith Lumpkin, GA Washington, NC Wake Forest, NC Date Unknown Date Unknown March 1984

Bill Brice David Koonce Ida Mae Thomas Terrell, TX Ayden, NC Lumpkin, GA

Date Unknown Kenneth Loban

Date Unknown Olivia Tilton

Date Unknown Thomas Brooks

Esmont, VA Coos Bay, OR Dayton, TX October 3, 1982 May 3, 1984 Date Unknown Amie Carter Timothy Martinez Clemme Timmons Terrell, TX San Luis, CO Avondale, AZ Date Unknown February 1984 May 1983

Lovelia Cobbs Marie McCullough Florence Tisdell New York, NY New York, NY Latta, SC January 13, 1984 March 8, 1984 1979

Eddie Cooper Claudie McFadden Betty Tyson

Charleston Hts, SC Date Unknown

Greeleyville, SC Date Unknown

Carrollton, GA Date Unknown

Mrs. Bama Edens Evelyn Miller Edna N. Voigt Port Arthur, TX Omaha, NE Brookfield, WI Date Unknown January 13, 1984 April 29, 1984 Moses Edwards Peter Minute Christine Walker Latta, SC Wake Forest, NC St. Albans, NY 1983 1979 May 12, 1984 Laura K. Eiler Eulalia Olivares James Williams Gahanna, OH Laveen, AZ Tamms, IL January 24, 1984 Date Unknown September 1982 Gar Frazier Amy Parker Pearl Williams Terrell, TX Columbia, SC Dillon, SC Date Unknown Date Unknown Date Unknown

Gracie Preston Independence, KS

Gwendolyn Frazier Moncks Corner, SC

December 1983 September 16, 1983 Dave Gay Eva Pringle Ridgeville, SC Ridgeville, SC March 1984 February 1984

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Letters

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useful lessons in my professional practice. For example, the foundation of healing is the self-effacing caring for others.

This allows one to dispassionately identify the obstacles to a patient’s well-being and remove them. Then the healing power of God can transfuse the individual and produce health.

Is this different from teaching? I think not.

There is a subtle yet profound danger in applying the American cultural practices of ‘‘salesmanship’’ to obtaining enrollments.

The salesman is encouraged through meetings and symposia to see himself as the source of in . fluence on a prospective customer. When teaching is consid ed as “’sales,”” this cultural attitude, of which the American may be entirely unaware, becomes an obstacle to the seeker.

The salesman is also taught to be aggressive. This aggressiveness is not appropriate in a matter as intimate as religion. An unbridled aggressiveness can damage a community and other Baha’is.

Let us carefully apply the method of the Guardian as our primary means of obtaining enrollments. Remember, enrollment is not an end but a stage in the teaching process which does not specifically end until that seeker will ‘‘arise independently, in his turn, and devote his energies to the quickening of other souls, and the upholding of the laws and principles laid down by his newly adopted Faith.”’ (The Advent of Divine Justice, 1941 ed., pp. 43-44)

Dr. R.C. Morrow Katy, Texas

To the Editor:

I’ve been thinking about the imperative need for single adults of all ages to have fellowship with other singles throughout the world.

This need has met with much controversy, and apparently no conclusion has been derived from it. The need, however, becomes greater with each passing day.

Perhaps the National Assembly should dwell on setting up some guidelines for addressing the situation. The youth conferences seem to be well organized and thriving—why should we single adults be any different?

I'd like to propose to the editors that we start an adult ‘‘pen pal club,”’ if nothing else for starters. It would be up to the honor of those who join it to conduct the sort of correspondence that is in keeping with the Balid’i way of life.

We single Baha’is are many in number, and we are reaching out to our Faith in the hope that with a better balance in our lives we a be able to better serve the

Se. Recently I joined an organization for single adults that, mor

ally, leaves much to be desired. I do not feel comfortable there, and the men I’ve met are accustomed to anything but a Baha’i lifestyle. I hope this letter will be given some consideration, as my primary interest is spreading the

good news of the Baha’i Faith. Geneva Evans Carrizosa Compton, California

To the Editor:

People will always talk about a subject they find interesting. If we have a profession, a hobby, a sport we enjoy, or if we find literature, art, music or a craft interesting, we enjoy talking about it.

WE WILL talk non-stop about food or the latest film or television show. Why, then, will Baha’is not talk about the Faith, not only to strangers but to a large extent even among themselves?

In other words, why don’t we Baha’is give the Glad Tidings?

In my opinion, we no longer do so because we no longer feel glad or happy about the Baha’i Faith.

The reason, I believe, is that we have failed to bring the masses into the Faith and to support the Funds, and also because there is in Baha’u’ llah’s Teachings a promise of peace, love and spiritual joy that eludes us as individuals and as a community. How did this happen? te

We have turned the Faith of God into a ‘‘fun and games’’ social group that sometimes tickles our palate but leaves us undernourished as far as the inner and deeper verities of religion are concerned.

We have established a mutual admiration social club based on a superficial love of people instead of on the love of Bahá’u’lláh and His Teachings.

WE HAVE also followed every modern gimmick from balloons to T-shirts to psychological fads to cult movements. With all of this, we seem to have forgotten that the Bahá’í Faith is a religion. .

The Baha’i Faith teaches that “the core of religion is that mystic feeling that unites man with God’’ and that ‘‘this comes from prayer and meditation.”

To me, this means that we should commune with the Spirit of God and meditate on His attributes of love and beauty, peace and joy, etc. These are the spiritual attributes we can establish in ourselves and offer as a precious gift to all those who cross our

th.

Baha’u’llah is speaking to each one of us: “Forget the world and commune with My Spirit, this is the essence of My command.””

Enlightenment, the chief individual goal of religion, is the establishment of a day-by-day, moment-by-moment awareness of the Presence of God. Who else can we turn to for protection, guidance and courage in this fast deteriorating world?

We must inspire, through our common endeavors, the ordinary Baha’ to talk freely and joyfully about the Faith, and reduce to a

-Moving? ‘ Tell us your new address

To avoid unnecessary delays in receiving your copies of The American Babs’ send your new address and your mailing I-bel which includes your ID number to the Office of Membership and Records, Baha’ National Center, Wilmette, IL (60091. as soon as you know that you a 10 move and what your new address will be, We will do our best to see that changes are processed Quickly so that the transfer of mail to your new home is accomplished with all possible speed.

NOTE: Use this

Name

Mai Adgress—_ 3

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Me Mes. Miss

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ity

Work

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Name of Local Assembly group Mailing label should

changes only.

Please check box.

Full name 00 NOT use nicknames

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mpany address change form

We have been receiving more than one copy of The American Baha’i. Because we don’t need extra copies, please remove my name from the mailing list for this publication.

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BAHA’i NATIONAL CENTER

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1 1 ! | ! | | ! | 1 | | | i ! | form for individual | ! 1 t 1 ! | 1 1 1 1 | | !

rceueewiotnetose 5. S55 o5 ee I aia

minimum the time- and moneyconsuming public meetings and “celebrity’’ speakers that have proven so ineffective.

If the entire community is not taught to teach, we will fail. Mass enrollments can come only from mass teaching.

We must move the Faith back to the neighborhood and the home. The themes of ‘Each One Teach One’? and ‘“‘Heart to Heart’’ teaching have not been improved upon. Z

How much time do we have left?

Charles Beachner Santa Rosa, California

To the Editor:

At the 1984 National Convention, Firuz Kazemzadeh said that as few as 35 letters from a congressman’s constituency could cause him to champion an issue.

It is letters to legislators that help them design the best platforms and plans.

WHEN Americans yote, they are voting on platforms and promises based upon lobbying by special interest groups, letters from voters, and some degree, hopefully, of a legislator’s wisdom.

The vote is merely a choice between two or more already formulated sets of ideas. If I understand correctly, the time to have input into the issues is before the elections.

Most Baha’is I have talked to fear that writing to their legislators is partisan politics. So the wisdom arising from the Teachings, which Shoghi Effendi says is the one remedial scheme for the

reorganization of the world (World Order of Baha’u’llh, pp. 36-38) is not flowing through this powerful channel.

We know that we are not to write as Baha’is or in the name of the Faith unless directed by the National Assembly. And we are not, as individuals, to contact local authorities and persons of national or international prominence without the approval of the Local or National Assembly (National Bahá’í Review, No. 57, September 1972, p. 7). Nor are we to support or work against particular parties or candidates.

The question is, may we as individual Americans, without mentioning the Faith, acquaint our local or national legislators with the specific guidance concerning modern problems that is available to us?

MAY WE, without mentioning the Faith, express our opinion about actions to be taken in areas such as human rights, education, justice, etc.? 3

Of course, not every Baha’i

would express the same opinion in the same way, and some of us would express ideas that were incorrect. Letters from constituents are usually not a source of exact details for social change; they are a force for social change.

In this writer’s opinion, writing to legislators is not only not partisan politics, but is part of a citizen’s responsibility.

When the ideas and encouragement of Bahá’ís is withheld, it seems to me the only source of contact between the legislators and the information they need is severely blocked.

I would like to see some dialogue on this issue in The American Baha’i. And of course, any guidance the National Assembly can give on this is most welcome.

I’m sure there are others like myself who occasionally write to a legislator on an issue, then throw the letter away, not certain that to express an opinion is not meddling in politics.

Rouha Rose Normandy Park, Washington

Hand of Cause Khadem special guest at Massanetta Springs Baha’i School

“Threshold of Light’’ is the theme of the 1984 Massanetta Springs Baha’i School to be held August 31-September 2 in Harrisonburg, Virginia.

Special guests will include the Hand of the Cause of God Ziktullah Khadem; Soo Fouts, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly; and Auxiliary Board members Robert Harris, Javidukht Khadem and Nathan Rutstein.

Rates are $58 (semi-private room with bath) or $38 (dorm) for adults, and $29 (semi-private room with bath) or $19 (dorm) for children.

The site has a capacity of 600, and recreational facilities include tennis and swimming.

Registrations must be received by August 20. Write to the registrar, Verbis Counts,

_ . Vienna, VA, of phone 703-556-0507.