The American Bahá’í/Volume 17/Issue 12/Text

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[Page 1]

New Auxiliary Board members named to five-year terms

Dearly loved friends,

When the Universal House of Justice announced that a five-year term for members of the Auxiliary Boards would begin on the Day of the Covenant 1986, the National Spiritual Assembly generously offered this Feast letter to announce the appointments of the Auxiliary Board members who will begin serving you on November 26.

The beloved Guardian created the Auxiliary Boards at Ridván 1954. He wrote that their major function, performed under the direction of the Hands of the Cause of God, was to assist the National Assemblies to accomplish the goals of the Ten Year Plan.

There were 45 Auxiliary Board members appointed throughout the world at that time assisting 13 National Assemblies. Now there are 756 Auxiliary Board members serving under the direction of five Continental Boards of Counselors and assisting 148 National Assemblies, a dramatic growth of the Cause in 32 years graphically symbolizing the role played by these Auxiliary Board members whose major function continues to be to assist us all to win the goals of each Plan.

Throughout the Americas there are 180 Auxiliary Board members serving 41 National communities. Twenty-nine Auxiliary Board members have been assigned to serve you in the United States, 18 for propagation and 11 for protection. Twenty-seven have been appointed. They are:

Propagation: Mr. James Schoppert. Protection: Mrs. Marchia Morey. (Areas of service: Washington; Oregon; Idaho; Montana.)

Propagation: Mr. Richard Groger. Protection: Mrs. Marsha Gilpatrick. (California N1, N2, C1, C2; Nevada N.)

Propagation: Mr. Miguel Osborne. Protection: Mr. Edward Diliberto. (California S1, S2, S3, S4; Nevada S.)

Propagation: Miss Carol Brooks, Mr. Richard Wadleigh. Protection: Mrs. Nancy Phillips. (Wyoming; Utah; Colorado; Arizona; New Mexico; Texas W.)

Propagation: Mrs. Ronna Santoscoy. Protection: Mr. Stephen Birkland. (North and South Dakota; Minnesota; Nebraska; Iowa; Kansas; Missouri.)

Propagation: Mr. Robert Ramirez. Protection: Mr. Shelley Pittman. (Oklahoma; Texas, except West.)

Propagation: Mr. Morris Taylor, Dr. June Thomas. Protection: Mrs. Javidukht Khadem. (Wisconsin; Michigan; Illinois; Indiana; Ohio.)

Propagation: Mrs. Mary K. Radpour, Dr. Jean Scales. Protection: Dr. Sam McClellan. (Kentucky; Tennessee; North Carolina; Arkansas; Louisiana; Mississippi.)

Propagation: Mrs. Elizabeth Martin. Protection: Mrs. Gertrude White. (South Carolina.)

Propagation: Mr. Charles Cornwell, Mrs. Soo Fouts. Protection: Mr. Jack Guillebeaux. (Alabama; Georgia; Florida.)

Propagation: Dr. Tahereh Ahdieh, Mrs. Mara Khavari. Protection: Dr. William Roberts. (New England; New York; Pennsylvania; Delaware; Maryland; Washing-

The time has finally come for the gala dedication

The time has finally come for the gala dedication December 23-27 of the magnificent lotus-shaped Bahá’í House of Worship near New Delhi, India, with thousands of Bahá’ís and their guests from all over the world expected to attend. For those from the U.S. who plan to attend the dedication ceremonies, the following information applies to your travel plans: (1) tourist visas should be acquired with the purpose of the trip being the Bahá’í Temple dedication; (2) on-site registration will be available but it is preferable to send in hotel reservations in advance because it may be difficult to find hotel rooms; (3) if you have sent in your pre-registration but haven’t received credentials, duplicates will be available on-site in India; (4) if you are planning to visit the Bahá’í World Center after the dedication, you must inform the World Center either directly or through the Pilgrimage Office at the Bahá’í National Center (phone 312-869-9039).

"The real treasury of man is his knowledge.’—Bahá’u’lláh

Letter recounts poignant story of ‘roses’

In October the National Spiritual Assembly wrote to all the Bahá’ís in the U.S. to enlist their support for a national effort to arise, in the Spirit of the Roses, to successfully launch the Six Year Plan. Here is the text of that letter:

Dear Bahá’í Friend:

A movement is sweeping the nation—a movement born out of a gift from the captive Bahá’ís in Iran. It promises to shape the spirit of the entire Six Year Plan. The Bahá’í prisoners rendered a poignant example of the power of individuals to advance the Faith regardless of personal circumstances. These steadfast souls, imprisoned for their belief in Bahá’u’lláh, purchased a gift for the American Bahá’í community: a gift of 189 roses—one rose for each recent martyr. At the National Convention the roses were presented to the delegates, who then shared them with the thousands of Bahá’ís in their Districts. This gesture of love captured the imagination of the believers across this land.

In a letter included with the roses, the captives implored the American Bahá’ís to “arise to compensate for the services we are prevented from rendering.” In the spirit of the Campaign of Unified Action, the National Spiritual Assembly...

‘Fearless, deeply loved’ Hand of Cause of God Zikrullah Khadem dies

WITH SORROWFUL HEARTS ANNOUNCE PASSING INDEFATIGABLE FEARLESS DEFENDER FAITH DEEPLY LOVED HAND CAUSE ZIKRULLAH KHADEM. HIS STERLING SERVICES TO THE CAUSE, HIS TOTAL CONSECRATION TO TASKS ASSIGNED TO HIM BY BELOVED GUARDIAN, HIS OUTSTANDING EFFORTS AS MEMBER NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY CRADLE FAITH, HIS VALUABLE SOUL-UPLIFTING STIMULATION IMPARTED BODY BELIEVERS NORTH AMERICA, PARTICULARLY UNITED STATES BAHÁ’Í COMMUNITY, HIS UNTIRING ENDEAVORS THROUGH HIS TALKS AND WRITINGS IN SAFEGUARDING COVENANT AND IN INSTILLING APPRECIATION LOVE FOR SHOGHI EFFENDI SHED UNDYING LUSTRE OVER PERIOD HIS ADMIRABLE STEWARDSHIP CAUSE GOD.

OFFERING PRAYERS HOLY SHRINES PROGRESS HIS RADIANT SOUL ABHÁ KINGDOM. URGE HOLD BEFITTING MEMORIAL GATHERINGS HIS NAME AT ALL HOUSES OF WORSHIP AS WELL AS IN ALL LOCAL BAHÁ’Í COMMUNITIES.

UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE NOVEMBER 14, 1986

Mr. Khadem’s message to Peace Conference, last letter to National Spiritual Assembly, pages 14-15.

As the Hand of the Cause of God Zikrullah Khadem often said in recounting the words of Shoghi Effendi, the Guardian of the Bahá’í Faith, “sorrow and joy embraced” at the Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois, during a memorial service November 15 for Mr. Khadem who passed away two days earlier in Chicago.

Foundation Hall overflowed with those who had come from near and distant locales to weep for their loss and to celebrate his life of service and victory.

Mr. Khadem’s wife, Javidukht, and their five children offered remarks that set a tone of love and appreciation. Their uplifting sentiments were echoed by the Hand of the Cause of God William Sears and representatives of the U.S., Canadian and Alaskan Bahá’í communities.

Since the National Spiritual Assembly was meeting that same...

‘Spirit of Roses’ gathers momentum as communities respond to sacrifices

Many letters are being received at the Bahá’í National Center from across the country, sharing news of activities and plans to “redeem the roses.”

The friends in Maine sent a telegram to the National Assembly from their convention, dedicating the Day of the Covenant (November 26) as a time for a 24-hour prayer vigil, and additionally, pledging sacrificial contributions in support of the National Fund.

The Bahá’í House of Worship has become a center of activity for efforts to redeem the roses. A goal of 189 new believers was set for the 189-day period ending at Riḍván. On October 19, at the observance of the anniversary of the Birth of the Báb, there were two declarations, providing an exciting start in pursuit of this goal. Regular study classes are being held each Tuesday and Sunday evening.

The Spiritual Assembly of Chattanooga, Tennessee, has... [Page 2]

Terrill Hayes is named new general manager of Bahá’í Publishing Trust, Distribution Service

Terrill Hayes has been named general manager of the Bahá’í Publishing Trust and Distribution Service, replacing Larry Bucknell who left the position to become chief administrative officer at the Bahá’í National Center.

Before coming to the Publishing Trust in 1979 to serve as production manager, Mr. Hayes worked for three years at the American Institute of Physics in New York, where he was assistant production supervisor of the Long Island production division. His duties included overseeing composition, typesetting, proofreading and paste-up on 12 journals a year.

Before that, Mr. Hayes, who is an oboeist with a B.A. and M.A. in music, served in the U.S. Army.

Part of Mr. Hayes' duties as production manager of the Publishing Trust included serving on the Trust's publishing team.

That team, comprised of the general manager, general editor and production manager, came into being under Mr. Bucknell and consulted on short- and long-range publishing goals for the Trust.

Mr. Hayes also helped to computerize various departments at the Trust and to compile some of the major books published there, including Unrestrained as the Wind and Peace: More Than an End to War.

"In consultation with the Publishing Trust Advisory Board, a diverse group appointed by the National Spiritual Assembly to consult with the management of the Trust on publishing goals," says Mr. Hayes, "we have developed an excellent publishing program for the Six Year Plan.

"We're committed to publishing books and special products that support and enhance our study of the Bahá’í writings.

"We also plan to have more books available for children and youth," he says, "to use computer technology to enhance our study of the Faith, and to broaden the base of support with our distribution service representatives."

In addition, says Mr. Hayes, "we are committed to working with the National Teaching Committee and other agencies of the Bahá’í National Center to support special projects of the Six Year Plan.

"This will also involve close collaboration with the National Spiritual Assembly, the Continental Board of Counselors, and the Auxiliary Board members.

"Our foremost goal," he says, "is to help individuals and communities transform themselves with the use of Bahá’í literature. In this way, we can become the 'new society' that Bahá’u’lláh envisioned."

National Assembly names Management Information group

The National Spiritual Assembly has appointed a Management Information Systems (MIS) Committee to advise the Assembly on the application of new technology to serve the Faith's increasingly complex communication needs.

The new committee replaces the Bahá’í Computer and Telecommunications Committee of the Seven Year Plan.

Its immediate task is to assess existing systems for information storage and retrieval at the Bahá’í National Center and to recommend and help implement improvements.

Members of the MIS Committee are:

Robert Arrington, Katonah, New York (Director of Management Information Services for Freedom Inc., a government defense contractor).

Ralph Chapman, Madison, Wisconsin (presently pursuing an advanced degree in computer sciences while teaching computer programming and consulting on software design).

Lennel Grace, Chicago, Illinois (Senior Communications Specialist, Trans Union Credit Information Company).

Ronald Green, Lenoir, North Carolina (Senior Programmer Analyst, Hammary Furniture Manufacturers, a division of La-Z-Boy, and former programmer analyst at the Bahá’í National Center).

Cynthia Massey, Silver Spring, Maryland (Chief, Communications and Records Branch, U.S. Department of the Interior).

Steven Milston, Minneapolis, Minnesota (Vice-President, Office of Technology, First Bank Systems).

VIEWPOINT

As we near the end of this century—now less than 14 years away—our anticipation for the Lesser Peace increases, for the Guardian has told us that by the end of the century, the Lesser Peace would become a reality.

I would like to draw your attention to something else the Guardian had to say:

"The Author of the Divine Plan Himself is impeded in His purpose if the proper instruments for the execution of His design are lacking." (in Teaching the Cause, p. 7)

The Bahá’í Writings as well as other scriptures indicate that God in His wisdom conceives of a Plan or Purpose for us, with a specific timetable for its execution.

Part of that execution is up to Him. This is fixed and unchangeable; the advent of the Messengers of God at the exact appointed times is an example of this.

The other part is up to us; it depends on human effort.

We are told that our failure to live up to our responsibilities results in the postponement of God's purpose or promises. How else can we impede the Divine Plan except by delaying its realization?

If the timely fulfillment of the Divine Purpose were not dependent on us, we could rest peacefully. For if it is a certainty that the Lesser Peace will by the end of the century encompass the earth, then why should we exert any effort toward its realization? After all, it is going to be realized anyway.

As we study that part of the Divine Plan or Purpose that is assigned to the people—that is, to us—we find that it stands on two pillars. It rests partly on the believers, and partly on all mankind, especially those possessed of power.

Since Bahá’u’lláh commands us to bring ourselves to account every day, let us do exactly that. Have we, the believers in the Blessed Beauty, served as effective instruments in the execution of the Divine Plan?

Let us see if we can find an objective answer to this question.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá asks that each one of us teach at least one soul every year, a goal that is within the reach of almost every Bahá’í.

But statistics show that in this country, instead of one believer, it takes about 40 to teach and confirm one soul in a given year. And the chances are one in three that even that one seeking soul is eventually lost.

Had we fulfilled the Master's expectations, we are told that by now all mankind would be followers of the Greatest Name, and that not only the Lesser Peace but the Most Great Peace would have been established.

If we do not plant the seeds before the spring has passed, can we expect an abundant and timely harvest?

My intention here is not to imply in any way that by the end of this century peace will either come or not come. Only God knows that, and with Him nothing is impossible.

However, when we look at all of God's words and try to understand His wisdom as manifested in the spiritual history of mankind, we find that, as a rule, He does not take over the share He has assigned to his creatures.

In fact, sometimes God tests them by setting timetables, the execution of which He places totally or mainly on them—namely, the recipients of His Plan or Purpose.

This month's column, "Greater Efforts Needed to Establish the Lesser Peace in This Century," was written by Hushidar Motlagh of Lansing, Michigan, author of Unto Him Shall We Return.

Bahá’í-owned company sponsors worldwide essay contest for youth

Manifest Press, a Bahá’í-owned company in England, is sponsoring a worldwide essay contest for Bahá’í youth between the ages of 15 and 18.

The contest theme is "The Year 2000: Inheriting the Lesser Peace," and the task is to visualize life on earth in the year 2000.

Contestants are being asked to examine the process of Bahá’u’lláh's unfolding World Order and, with foresight, to describe the cultural, social, political, environmental and spiritual conditions that are likely to exist at the end of this century. Essays should be 2,000 words long and in English.

The 20 best essays as chosen by a panel of judges will be published in a book entitled The Year 2000: Inheriting the Lesser Peace.

As prizes, each of the 20 young authors will receive a percentage royalty and two copies of the book.

The purpose of the contest is to challenge the minds of today's Bahá’í youth to reflect upon the time in which they live and to anticipate the weighty responsibility of being the inheritors of the Lesser Peace when they become the adult Bahá’ís of the 21st century.

The contest deadline is Ridván 144 B.E. Essays should reach Manifest Press by April 21, 1987.

Completed essays should be sent to Joseph Sheppherd, Manifest Press, Buckinghamshire, HP13 7PT, United Kingdom. And if you have questions, please write also to that address.

Boards

After long and devoted years of service, the following 16 staunch believers are being relieved of their weighty duties as members of the Auxiliary Boards in the United States. Their experience, knowledge, devotion and love now may become a great fountain of assistance to us all as we enter the Six Year Plan.

Mr. Hormoz Bastani, Mrs. Dorothy Borhani, Mrs. Carol Bowie, Mrs. Eunice Braun, Mrs. Opal Conner, Mrs. Joyce Dahl, Mrs. Margaret Gallagher, Miss D. Thelma Jackson, Mr. Albert James, Dr. Khalil Khavari, Mr. Anthony Lease, Mr. Benjamin Levy, Mrs. Shirley Lindstrom, Dr. Jalil Mahmoudi, Mr. Robert Postlethwaite, Dr. William Tucker.

We are extremely grateful for the tireless services of these dear friends and assure them of our heartfelt and ardent prayers for the success of their future services and the outpouring of Bahá’u’lláh's continued confirmations.

The newly appointed members of the Auxiliary Boards in the United States gathered at the Bahá’í House of Worship for four days beginning November 12 to consult on the role of the Auxiliary Boards and their assistants in accelerating the growth of the Cause; releasing the power of the friends to accomplish the goals; furthering the campaign of unified action; and aiding in the realization of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá's promise for the destiny of America.

Please pray for the success of those deliberations and for these friends.

Warmest loving greetings,

Wilma Brady Robert Harris Fred Schechter Members of the Continental Board of Counselors resident in the U.S.

OUR NEW TREASURER IS A CONVINCING SPEAKER! By Heidi Burns, Lakewood, Ohio [Page 3]

LETTERS

"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 and opinions, never to denigrate another's opinion or to 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, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

Some holiday ideas

To the Editor:

Christmas is here and Intercalary Days aren't far away. In the yearly attempt to find something interesting and fun and beautiful to do for our own holidays, my husband and I came up with the following ideas that we would like to share with you in the hope that you'll share your ideas with us.

First, we make some family favorites—especially treats that we associate with holidays from our own childhood—only during Ayyám-i-Há.

In our house, it's a special fruit salad and gingerbread cookies, a certain coffee cake and cardamon cookies. I'm sure you all have such customs that can be simply transferred.

The gingerbread cookies make great gifts, especially since we found a camel-shaped cookie cutter, and the "Ayyám-i-Há camel" has brought us presents for a long time now.

While that may sound silly, it comes from stories of the Holy Family and the huge camel train that brought Bahá’u’lláh's bride and her dowry to Him.

So, while we all know that no camel really comes, and we all like to joke about her, each year we retell the story and remember the beginnings of our Faith.

In addition, we spend the first night of the holidays at home with special friends. We use the best dishes and linen, candles and all the things that mean "holiday" to us.

Our closest friends come and share the dinner (foods the kids like) and the gift-giving. Both of our children look forward to that night.

We put the presents out in the morning, but they can't be touched until sundown. Everyone usually receives some little thing before dinner.

We also exchange gifts with the children of close friends and have promised among ourselves to continue, wherever we are, so that packages come from afar, things arrive in the mail box and there is a continuity to look forward to and enjoy.

We try to decorate, at least with fresh flowers, but usually more. Last year I decided to get a branch and make decorations for it (sort of like Christmas, but not quite) using symbols from the Writings.

The holidays should be special and happy for us all. They are, quite honestly, a difficult time for the children who feel left out of the dominant culture.

We probably do, too, if we'd admit it—at least I do. So I'm trying to remedy that feeling and hope my ideas may be of some help to others trying to live in two worlds at once.

I look forward to hearing what others may have come up with to add to the pleasure of Ayyám-i-Há.

Cher Holt-Fortin Stone Mountain, Georgia

Praying for peace

To the Editor:

On December 31, some 150 million people around the world are gathering simultaneously to pray, meditate and visualize world peace, harmony and cooperation. Another 500 million are endorsing this moment of harmony. This number of people focusing for one hour (noon Greenwich Mean Time) on global peace can help make peace a reality.

In more than 45 countries, on seven continents, individuals and groups are actively organizing a two-hour interactive satellite video planned for midnight Greenwich Mean Time. There will be food and music, and possibly educational programs culminating in a worldwide candle-lighting ceremony.

As Bahá’ís, we should support this event both as a way of teaching the Faith and of contemplating our potential for 1987.

Groups in many cities are already planning this planetary New Year's Eve party. If you would like to find out how to get involved, contact the Human Unity Institute, P.O. Box 3431, San Clemente, CA 92672.

Bill Phillips Santa Cruz, California

More pictures, please!

To the Editor:

A few months ago we requested pictures from old Bahá’í calendars. The few we've received so far have been given to friends who proudly display them on the walls in their homes.

We've also received a set of informal snapshots from one family and community, and these were a big hit!

We cannot adequately convey the impact that these beautiful calendar pictures and snapshots have had on the Bahá’í identity of these friends. The people here are very isolated from the outside world.

So, besides offering our heartfelt thanks to Bahá’u’lláh for the generosity of the American friends, we'd like to request more outdated calendar pictures, and especially informal snapshots of groups of shining Bahá’í faces.

We have about 200 homes whose occupants could teach the Faith more effectively if they could proudly display these very real symbols of their new-found Faith.

The Carson Family c/o Livingston, Izabal Guatemala

Lack of guides a 'shock'

To the Editor:

My first thought when I received a letter asking for volunteers to guide at the House of Worship in Wilmette was that I had better hurry and request the time that was best for my schedule before all the time slots were taken.

It was a total shock to me to find that because of a lack of guides, the upstairs doors to our beautiful gift to the world are sometimes locked.

This is hard to understand. If people only knew the wonderful experience it is to guide, if they could read the diary that is provided for guides to write about the day's events—the words of love, the people they've met—if they could see a person shed tears of joy just to set foot in this holy place, we would no longer have a shortage of guides but rather a waiting list.

Bahá’u’lláh said we don't choose the Faith, the Faith chooses us. I feel twice blessed, having been chosen for the Faith and being able to live so close to our beloved House of Worship.

It breaks my heart to think that Bahá’ís are missing an experience that is so spiritually rich and fulfilling.

Laura Hammond Morton Grove, Illinois

Racism is 'alive and well'

To the Editor:

I agree with Jihmye Collins' observations (September) about the American community's indifference toward apartheid and South Africa and, although I am white, I also feel the anger and frustration.

I would suggest that our lack of commitment and outright apathy toward the suffering and injustices in South Africa is indeed a direct reflection of our attitude toward our fellow black citizens.

We have to realize that racism is alive and well in America, and, yes, even in our own Bahá’í community.

How can we promulgate "The Promise of World Peace" when we can't even act on the basic tenet of the Faith which calls for the elimination of all forms of prejudice?

How often have we heard of America's "most challenging issue"? Do we really understand its implications in our everyday lives?

We need to act now! Form race unity committees, especially in urban and other segregated areas. Move to black neighborhoods and enroll in black schools and universities. Reach out and teach in black neighborhoods. Draw on the resources of our fellow black Bahá’ís for strength and support.

Teaching efforts in South Carolina, to use one example, testify to the openness of American blacks to the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh.

Teach your children by example; expose them to all kinds of people so they'll come to love and expect unity in diversity and become examples for the rest of the country and the rest of the world.

When we are compelled to do this we will have an effect on apartheid; we will feel the pain and sorrow of our brethren in South Africa as we feel now for our fellow Bahá’ís in Iran. Change begins at home, in our hearts.

Maureen Ruddy Mount Vernon, Virginia

On phones, etiquette

To the Editor:

When a person calls a Bahá’í phone number from the yellow pages, many times he or she is seeking information about the Faith.

I have called Bahá’ís from many airports as I travel, and I'm disturbed by what often happens when I call.

Many times, I get an answering service or machine. It is often impossible to get the number of one of the friends, and sometimes I am given the "third degree" to make sure I'm a Bahá’í in good standing before I can get a number.

At times, children answer the phone, or non-Bahá’ís answer. Most disturbing to me is when Bahá’ís answer and I get the feeling they are too busy to talk to me, or I feel that they may be wonderful Bahá’ís but don't understand how to project Bahá’í warmth and love over the phone.

Many seekers ask about meetings they can attend. My wife and I have one of our local Bahá’í phone numbers, and no matter how busy we are, we always take the time to make callers feel that their call is welcomed.

We make a point to invite them over or ask if we can stop by and meet them. We don't just give them a list of meetings; we give them love and attention.

Most Bahá’ís are sincere and full of love, but it would be my wish that our institutions could set up a plan for the community so that the telephone would be an initial bridge of love to a seeker and make those who are Bahá’ís feel welcome when they call.

J. Richard Hoff Las Cruces, New Mexico

Must we file for Chapter 11?

To the Editor:

How can we as Bahá’ís hope to unify the world and gain the "Most Great Peace" when we are letting our national administrative institution fall apart for lack of funds?

Without the National Assembly and National Center we have no unified direction. The splendid victories of the Seven Year Plan could not have happened without a guiding hand.

Will our National Spiritual Assembly have to fold, cease to exist because it went broke? Will the House of Worship in Wilmette have to be sold off as a library before we wake up?

The National Fund is not asking us to give up our last two eggs; it is not asking for a 30 per cent tithe; it is not asking us to give up our new car or that microwave oven we really need.

The National Fund has, in this, one of the most affluent countries in the world, a goal of 10 per cent participation. 10 PER CENT! A goal of only one out of 10 of the friends giving—a goal which, sadly, cannot be met.

If only $1 was lovingly given by every believer, there would be no danger of collapse, and we would meet our needs and goals. One dollar won't even buy a pack of cigarettes now, but $1 from each of us would provide for the administrative mechanism that won the Seven Year Plan victories and will unify the world.

Wouldn't it be embarrassing to have to tell seekers that our national administrative body, our regional Bahá’í schools, and our radio station had to close their doors and be sold because they went broke? And that they went broke because of a lack of interest?

How effective would we be in gaining new believers then? And how effective would we be in gaining the final victory for the Cause?

Please, friends, donate lovingly and regularly according to your own ability, if only the cost of about 17 cigarettes.

Josef Keller Portland, Maine

Thanks from South Dakota

To the Editor:

We would like to extend our thanks to all the people who took the time and made the effort to come to the "Spirit of the Rose" project in South Dakota this summer.

Through your prayers and love you have helped to raise up the first of the 19 pledged Assemblies—Cherry Creek.

We counted more than 30 projecteers from June 10 until now (early October) and we look forward to many more visitors. Please feel free to come whenever you can.

What we plan to do this winter is play a lot—and work on consolidation in the Eagle Butte and Cherry Creek communities.

As we have the time and energy, we'll continue also to work on our

THE WAY OUT OF THE DEAD END

• • A Plea for Peace**
  • HUSCHMAND SABETI**

• • New from George Ronald, Publisher**

This book was written to present the Bahá’í Teachings on peace to non-Bahá’ís. Brief, witty and to the point, it is eminently suitable for use as a gift and for presentations.

Starting from the 'peace debate' of recent years, the author takes a fresh look at the whole subject. 'We can work more effectively towards the Lesser Peace when we set our sights on the Most Great Peace,' says Mr Sabet.

144 pages. Hardcover $10.95, Softcover $6.95

Order through your local librarian, or send check or money order to: Bahá’í Distribution Service, 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091. [Page 4]

CHAMPION-BUILDERS: BENJAMIN D. WEEDEN

Benjamin Dunham Weeden was first attracted to the Bahá’í Faith in 1942 as a result of pioneer activity in his hometown of Brattleboro, Vermont.

For many years prior to his learning of the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh, he had been a student of religious and philosophical thought. He bought a new Bible and dictionary to aid his careful study because he realized that the Guardian's beautiful translations into English of the Writings of the Faith required a complete understanding of their exact meanings.

Mr. Weeden studied the Writings for hours on end, then declared his belief in Bahá’u’lláh in 1943 at the age of 51.

Although quiet and modest by nature, Mr. Weeden arose immediately upon his declaration to meet the challenges of his new Faith. He quickly became a member of the Spiritual Assembly of Brattleboro and the New England Regional Teaching Committee, and also was elected a delegate to the Bahá’í National Convention.

Among his many activities was a series of Bahá’í talks broadcast over radio station WKNE in Keene, New Hampshire.

Early in 1948 Mr. Weeden was invited to serve at the World Center in Haifa, Israel, where his fiancee, Gladys Anderson, had been helping the beloved Guardian during the previous year.

The subsequent marriage of Ben Weeden and Gladys Anderson was the first Bahá’í marriage held in the newly formed state of Israel.

In April 1948, at the request of Shoghi Effendi, Mr. Weeden accompanied Sutherland Maxwell, architect of the Shrine of the Báb, on a trip to Rome to study suitable materials for the construction of the superstructure of the Shrine.

With the help of Dr. Ugo Giachery, a Bahá’í living in Rome, they spent the next few weeks consulting with various marble-cutting firms, then returned to Haifa in May to begin preparing the building site for the new structure.

Mr. Weeden became the liaison between the Guardian, Mr. Maxwell, the chief engineers and the master stone mason. In addition, he supervised the transportation of shipments of stone arriving.

'Fire in Heartland' blazes in Davenport, Iowa

"Fire in the Heartland," a teaching campaign sponsored by the Bahá’í community of Davenport, Iowa, has led so far to more than 30 adults, several youth and dozens of children enrolling in the Faith, more than doubling the size of the community.

Building on a solid base of public recognition established over the past two years, the community entered a float in this year's Fourth of July parade and passed out copies of "The Promise of World Peace" and "Wage Peace" balloons to many of the more than 50,000 onlookers.

In July and August, Lakota Sioux Bahá’í Kevin Locke performed his hoop dance for large crowds at local shopping malls and at a "Friendship Festival" organized by local peace groups, and he and pianist Mark Ochu performed at a local settlement house that is quite popular with minorities.

A group of 25 Mesquakie Indians from Tama, Iowa, came to Davenport to take part in the celebration, staying at the home of a Bahá’í family that was on vacation.

Many peace messages were given to the people who attended the events and stopped at Bahá’í booths at the shopping malls.

Members of the Davenport community, with dozens of other Bahá’ís from across Iowa, reciprocated for the Mesquakies' visit by traveling to Tama for the annual pow-wow there.

One Bahá’í, Wilford Johnson from North Carolina, was invited to sing at the pow-wow. As a result of this visit, three members of the Mesquakie Nation were enrolled in the Faith.

Shortly afterward, another Bahá’í, Bob Cadwallader, arrived from North Carolina to lead a teaching effort that resulted in 23 declarations in one weekend.

Teaching and consolidation have been moving forward ever since.

The Bahá’ís of Davenport welcome the help and involvement of other communities and individuals. Teachers, consolidators, materials and funds are needed to expand the campaign and continue the enrollment process.

Pictured is the float sponsored by the Bahá’í community of Davenport, Iowa, in that city's annual Fourth of July parade.

Letter to Chicago magazine sets forth Bahá’í peace ideals

The lead letter in the October issue of Chicago magazine, headlined "The Challenge of Diversity," was written by J. Marcia LeRoy, coordinator of the Chicago Area Bahá’í Race Unity Task Force.

In the letter, Ms. LeRoy commends the magazine for carrying an article in its August issue recalling the visit to Chicago some 20 years ago Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and paraphrases the Universal House of Justice’s peace statement to point out that Bahá’ís all over the world are working for peace and believe that it is not only possible but inevitable.

Update on refugee status, appeal process

Updated statistics U.S. Bahá’í Refugee Office (following the latest government report) indicate that from June through September 1986, 178 Bahá’í refugee cases had been allowed admission into the U.S. These cases represent 299 individuals.

Presently, we know of 70 Iranian Bahá’í refugees who have indicated an interest in coming to the U.S. These figures do not include those who will be processed as immigrants.

Sources also report that the U.S. government's allocation for Near Eastern refugees (of which Iranians of all backgrounds are only a small part) has been increased from 6,000 for fiscal 1986 to 8,000 for fiscal 1987.

A number of Iranian Bahá’ís have been denied refugee status after their interviews, and this has brought the U.S. Bahá’í Refugee Office a number of questions about the appeal process. By way of explanation, application for refugee status is made under Section 207 of the Immigration and Nationalization Act.

Section 101(a)(42) of the Act, as amended, defines the term "refugee" in applicable part, as "any person who is outside any country of such person's nationality or, in the case of a person having no nationality, is outside any country in which such person last habitually resided and who is unable or unwilling to avail himself or herself of the protection of that country because of persecution or a well-founded fear of persecution on account of race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group or political opinion..."

Once one is denied refugee status, he or she must submit a Request for Reconsideration (RFR) of his denied refugee application to the Joint Voluntary Agency (JVA).

RFRS which adequately address the reasons for denial are promptly forwarded by the JVA to the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) office in Rome without further intervention. The INS office in Rome has sole decision-making authority in refugee appeal cases.

Those RFRs that contain no new or additional information beyond that of the original application or where new or additional information contained in the RFR requires clarification are held in abeyance pending re-interview between the applicant and JVA staff.

JVA has adopted this measure (1) to afford applicants an opportunity to present their cases thoroughly in light of the original denial, and (2) to ensure that RFRs submitted to the INS in Rome are complete and appropriate.

Children for World Peace

Bahá’ís in the Boulder, Colorado, area had two floats July 26 in the annual 'Old-Timers' Day' parade in Nederland. Pictured are Bahá’í children (left to right) Zack, Heather and Kit Wittenburg, who rode with other children, Bahá’í and non-Bahá’í, on the back of a truck whose theme was 'Children for World Peace.' The other 'float' was actually a dog sled team pulling a wheeled cart which was owned and ridden by Bahá’ís. Both floats attracted considerable attention and were written up in the local newspaper.

Can you identify anyone in this picture?

The National Bahá’í Archives needs to know the names of the group of early Bahá’ís in this photograph and where it was taken. If you can supply a name or place, please write to the National Bahá’í Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

Bahá’ís spur gift drive for Cherokee children

Bahá’ís on and near the Cherokee Indian Reservation in North Carolina are cooperating with Christians in the "Ethel Murray Project," a drive to see that Cherokee children and others receive Christmas gifts.

Needed are toys, articles of clothing and blankets to help the older people, many of whom have no heat, survive the cold winter months.

If you are able to donate toys, blankets or money to help buy them, please do so as soon as possible. The addresses to which to send donations are: Sonja McCoy, P.O. Box 441, Cherokee, NC 28719 (phone 704-497-4640), or Mabod Shayani, Asheville, NC 28801 (phone 704-252-7898).

Checks may be noted: Contribution to Cherokee. [Page 5]

NATIONAL FUND CONTRIBUTIONS 1986-1987

monthly goal $474,000

DOLLARS ($000’s)

BAHÁ’Í MONTHS

NATIONAL BAHÁ’Í FUND 1986-1987

DOLLARS ($000’s)

May Jun Jul Aug Sep

EXPENSES CONTRIBUTIONS

Fund deficit worsens as expenses outpace contributions by 35 per cent since Ridván

Expenses outpaced contributions to the National Bahá’í Fund by 35 per cent during the first half of the Bahá’í year, according to the National Treasurer’s Office. While contributions received since Ridván were nearly equal to the same period a year ago, they were not sufficient to cover increased expenditures.

The Treasurer’s Office’s report noted that expenses for the period were within the budget, but that the projected contributions goal had not been met in any of the first nine Bahá’í months. Consequently, only $100,000 of the National Spiritual Assembly’s $1.5 million commitment to the International Fund has been sent.

Furthermore, the Bahá’í Fund’s deficit has worsened since Ridván from $2.7 million to about $3.4 million. The members of the National Spiritual Assembly are planning a series of meetings across the country within the next two months to consult about the Fund and the Six Year Plan.

Bahá’í actor praised

"A superlative performance" by James Nettles, a Bahá’í from Nantucket, Massachusetts, highlighted a summer production at the Actors’ Theatre of "Master Harold...and the Boys," according to the Nantucket Inquirer and Mirror of July 31 which carried a photo of Mr. Nettles with its notice of the play.

Native American Institute now has water

The long search is over, and there is now water at the Native American Bahá’í Institute in Arizona.

In late September, a well driller at the NABI found a strong supply of water about 362 feet below the surface. Initial tests produced more than 10 gallons a minute. The quality looks good and is now being tested.

Six-inch steel casings will be installed in the lower 100 feet of the well where shale strata lie within the sandstone and in the upper 110 feet where the sandstone is relatively decomposed and loose. The middle section of the well is in firm sandstone.

Bahá’ís from South Gate, Lynwood, Downey and other communities in southeastern California gathered August 19 at the Lynwood Villa Convalescent Home to celebrate the Feast of Asmá’ and the 89th birthday of Doris Goodrick (center), who has been an active Bahá’í since she was a youth. As evidence of just how active, she gave a 'fireside' to the 40 people who had come to pay their respects and indicated that she would continue to teach as long as breath itself lasted. Pictured with her are Sue Maple (left) and Mary Kuebler who have been close to Doris since their early days in the Faith.

Principles of the Fund

• Supporting the Fund is the sacred obligation of all Bahá’ís.
• It is the degree of sacrifice of the giver, the love with which the gift is made, and the unity of all believers in contributing that bring confirmations to individuals and the community.
• Contributions to the Fund are a practical and effective way that we can test the measure of our faith and prove, through deeds, our devotion to the Cause.
• The flow of funds to the treasury is the life-blood of the institutions of the Faith. All believers are encouraged to contribute directly to the local, national, continental and international Funds.
• Support of the Fund is a privilege reserved only for those who have declared their belief in Bahá’u’lláh.

Properties department seeks workers

We are seeking hard-working, energetic individuals to serve in a variety of positions, specifically as a masonry worker and drafting aide in the Properties department at the Bahá’í National Center.

The masonry worker should be able to perform caulking, tuck-pointing, and concrete joint cutting using appropriate power equipment. Six to 12 months’ experience in masonry repair is desired.

The drafting aide will check existing conditions and update as-built drawings on buildings and sites, prepare sketches for new projects and perform other tasks of a technical or clerical nature. Good drawing skills, a high degree of accuracy and thoroughness, plus organizational skills are required, as is previous work experience in drafting, construction or building maintenance.

These positions will begin about June 1, 1987, and end August 15, though these dates will remain fairly flexible depending upon candidates’ availability. Both positions are salaried.

Those who are interested should contact the Department of Human Resources, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

Albuquerque Bahá’í 'wages peace' in Duke City Marathon

Susan Brill, a member of the Bahá’í community of Pajarito, New Mexico, near Albuquerque, ran September 28 in the Duke City Marathon with a special message on the back of her shirt: "Wage Peace-Time Is Running Out-Bahá’í Faith in the South Valley."

Ms. Brill, a student and teacher in the English department at the University of New Mexico, finished fifth in her age group, running the 26.2 miles in three hours, 56 minutes. More than 2,000 people participated in the marathon.

New Tax Reform Act favors making charitable deductions, gifts in 1986

The widely publicized Tax Reform Act of 1986 has now been signed into law by the President. The new Act would, among other things, make it more beneficial to accelerate 1987 contributions into 1986.

Contributions made in 1986 rather than 1987 will benefit taxpayers for two reasons. First, 1986 will be the last year that contribution deductions are allowed to non-itemizers. Second, contributions made in 1986 will yield a greater tax savings than in 1987 because the tax rate will decrease in 1987. Tax year 1986 carries a top marginal rate of 50 per cent, while in 1987 the top rate declines to 38.5 per cent. Thus, a gift of $100 in 1986 represents a possible tax savings of $50 for a taxpayer in the 50 per cent bracket. All other factors remaining the same, this $100 contribution in 1987 would save only $38.50 in taxes.

In addition, if one is contemplating a gift of appreciated property, it is better to make that contribution in 1986. Contributions of this type of property are more advantageous in 1986 because, in 1987, the appreciation becomes a tax preference item, subject to alternative minimum tax. [Page 6]

PIONEERING

At this year's Green Lake (Wisconsin) Conference, the issues associated with the fourth epoch of the Formative Age of the Faith were addressed. Much of the discussion was centered on the role of the individual and his relationship to the institutions of the Faith.

On Friday evening, the gathering was privileged to hear a talk by Eloy Anello, a pioneer from the U.S. to Bolivia for 15 years, an Auxiliary Board member for 11 years, and recently appointed a Counselor for the Americas. Mr. Anello, who is completing work on a doctoral degree in international education, spoke of the international needs of the Faith. Here are some highlights of that talk.

It occurs to me that a question comes to mind when we talk about the international needs of the Faith. Many of us ask quite sincerely, "How can I serve the Faith?"

Some of us think, I'm a singer, I'll sing; or, I like science, I'll be a scientist; or I'll be a doctor, or a teacher, or whatever.

It occurs to me that the question, "How will I serve the Faith?" is not the question we should be asking. Rather, the question is, "What does the Faith need you to do?" That's the question.

That may mean you have to sit home all night and type minutes for the Assembly; that you may serve on the local teaching committee through hours of consultation and planning; that you have to go and give a fireside even though you've never done that before; that you give a year of service to a foreign country, sleep on floors with villagers and walk for hours to visit them; that you arise to pioneer for Bahá’u’lláh, and that you have to do things you've never done before and that you're not at all qualified to do.

The question "What does the Faith need you to do?" is essentially a question of self-sacrifice.

Many of us mold our lives around the needs of the Faith. Some do it on a local level; a few shape their lives around the national needs of the Faith—working at the National Center, thinking about the national needs from a national perspective; and fewer still dedicate themselves to the international needs of the Faith.

What I've noticed in America is a lack of consciousness of the international needs of the Faith. We have a tendency to look at the needs of America's development at the local and national level. I would like to expand that consciousness through this talk, and help us realize that America's destiny is intimately entwined with the international needs of the Faith.

Bahá’ís needed to travel, teach in Guatemala

Help fulfill America's spiritual destiny by teaching in Guatemala.

Projecteers (individuals or groups) can be young or old, male or female, Spanish-speaking or non-Spanish-speaking, experienced or inexperienced traveling teachers.

The National Spiritual Assembly of Guatemala has set a goal of raising the number of Bahá’ís in Livingston, the most receptive municipality in that country with a present Bahá’í population of more than 300, to 2,000 by the end of the Six Year Plan.

Activities will include meetings in the homes of Bahá’ís, stimulation and deepenings for local Assemblies, street teaching, children's classes, and small group deepenings.

The project began December 15; the cost can be as low as $50 per week plus air fare.

If you are interested, please contact the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

ELOY ANELLO

This country's glorious destiny, outlined in the Tablets of the Divine Plan, depends upon the fulfillment of international needs and the response of the American Bahá’í community to those needs.

And if we are not even conscious of what they are, if we do not think about them, consult about them, how are we going to fulfill our destiny as envisioned by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in the Divine Plan and depicted by the Guardian in all his writings?

How is the American Bahá’í community going to arise and become the champion-builders of Bahá’u’lláh's World Order? How are we going to become the executors of the Divine Plan?

Right now there are about 100,000 Bahá’ís in the U.S., and 1.3 per cent are pioneering internationally—1.3 per cent in 128 countries.

Now, about a dozen American believers are giving regularly to the Deputization Fund. When you read the Gleanings, you find that Bahá’u’lláh says if you can't go (pioneering), you should send someone in your stead. He says this very clearly; this is a verity in our Faith.

What does this mean? It means you should help them to go, help finance their trip, help sustain them until they can find a job.

In Bahá’í Administration, the Guardian clearly states that the purpose of our administrative order is to sustain the teaching efforts. He even goes so far as to say that the purpose of the administration is to sustain the pioneering effort.

Why is pioneering so important? If you look at every victory we've had on the international scene, you can trace it back to the sacrificial efforts of a pioneer or pioneers.

The thousands of Bahá’ís we have in Bolivia are the fruits of a handful of pioneers who went and taught the Faith in the mountains. Look at the Temples we've raised up and the many localities that have been established throughout the world—the statistics we present with such pride: 30,000 local Spiritual Assemblies, almost 150 National Assemblies, 128,000 localities. How did they occur? They are the fruits of individual pioneers, out there on the front, putting it all on the line for Bahá’u’lláh. That's what it is all about.

Traveler recounts joy of combining teaching, business trip to England

The International Goals Committee recently received a letter from a Bahá’í who went on his first business trip on which he combined business with teaching the Faith.

Here are excerpts from that letter, presented with the assurance that when you arise to serve your Lord, He will shower His blessings upon your effort:

I would like to thank the International Goals Committee for their help. My advance notice of this trip was short yet I was supplied with a letter of introduction prior to departure.

Upon my arrival in London I contacted the National Center and made arrangements to attend Feast the following evening. It was suggested by a worker at the Center that I visit the grave of the Guardian.

Although I hadn't made plans to do so before leaving the U.S., I am amazed by the effect that holy spot had on me. I would definitely suggest that every Bahá’í begin their stay in the United Kingdom with prayers and meditation at the Guardian's resting place.

That evening, after Feast, I was given an itinerary for the next few days which graciously included housing with those I was to visit. At first I was disappointed because it did not allow me time to visit a couple of places I had much hoped to see, but I decided to accept what had been planned and leave my personal desires out of it. (This proved to be one of those good decisions we all make from time to time.)

My first stop out of London was Plymouth, followed by Exeter and Haywards Heath. In each place I was expected and welcomed as an old friend.

We shared thoughts, and in the evenings got together with local Bahá’ís and I shared what has been going on in my home community and learned of the activities of my host community. Many ideas were exchanged and my personal growth was felt daily.

The major purpose of my trip to England was a three and one-half week teaching job in Brighton. There, I found it easy to teach the Faith to those I met, and after a few days I contacted the local Assembly in Brighton and again had chances to share thoughts and ideas.

This was the first time I had made myself available in such a way. I was concerned as to what to do and what my role would be, but found that all worked smoothly and that all I had to do was put my trust in Bahá’u’lláh.

The whole experience was wonderful.

• Contact the International Goals Committee office at the Bahá’í National Center at least six weeks ahead of time if you plan to travel internationally for business or pleasure and wish to contact the local Bahá’ís, or if you want to travel-teach.

• Get information before arriving regarding specifically where you should meet your contact person, as well as alternate plans, if you arrive significantly off-schedule or if the contact person is unable to make the connection.

For anyone traveling on their own, carry identification and local contact information so you can contact friends if the trip does not go according to plan, or in case of an accident so someone can easily determine who to notify.

Travel as light as possible. A small but strong luggage cart will come in handy, if you have to do much carting of luggage around the airport or city streets.

• Get some idea in advance about the do's and don'ts of proper dress and other social mores for wherever you'll be going.

Find out from the receiving National Spiritual Assembly what kinds of teaching and consolidation materials are needed in your destination country and consider taking some of the needed materials with you. Get information on customs first, so you do not end up losing or having to pay excessively for things you are taking.

When traveling, consider taking photographs of contacts so they can be sent to the contact directly or via the local Bahá’ís as a follow-up to meeting them in person.

Finally, trust in the Blessed Beauty. As ye have faith, so shall your powers and blessings be.

Pioneer Post on subscription basis

Pioneer Post is a newsletter consisting of excerpts from letters written by pioneers from the U.S. to the International Goals Committee. In its eight-year existence, Pioneer Post has been sent quarterly to the 1,500 or so U.S. pioneers in the field, as well as to Counselors, Auxiliary Board members, and a few others who have requested it. Now it is being offered on a subscription basis to anyone who is interested for $4 a year. Make checks payable to "Bahá’í Services Fund," earmarked for IGC Pioneer Post, and send them to the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. You'll find Pioneer Post a continuing source of inspiration and love.

MATERIALS AVAILABLE THROUGH THE INTERNATIONAL GOALS COMMITTEE

BOOKS

A Manual for Pioneers by Rúhíyyih Rabbani, $4.50—A MUST for pioneers and traveling teachers, this practical guide by the Hand of the Cause of God Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum covers topics of concern such as health, diet, public speaking, local customs, simple furniture building, travel hints, Bahá’í administration, etc. The book shares many personal experiences gleaned from several trips made around the world.

Quickeners of Mankind: Pioneering in a World Community, $1.50—This compilation contains quotes from Bahá’u’lláh, the Báb, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Shoghi Effendi, the Universal House of Justice, and Hands of the Cause regarding pioneering. The quotes, arranged topically, provide an inspirational guide to deepening on the "most meritorious of deeds."

Where There Is No Doctor: A Village Health Care Handbook by David Werner, $7—Guidance for home diagnosis and remedies for many health problems encountered in other countries.

Preservation of Personal Health in Warm Climates by the Ross Institute of Tropical Hygiene, England, $2.50—This health care manual concentrates on those ailments and health concerns common to tropical climates. It provides specific information regarding inoculations, skin diseases, travel and camping preparations, and more.

CASSETTES

Pioneer by Joany Lincoln, $6—Pioneer Joany Lincoln has recorded in English and French many popular songs regarding service to Bahá’u’lláh including the "Persian Pioneer Song" and "Strong Brilliant Sunshine."

PERIODICALS

Pioneer Post newsletter, $4/year, published quarterly—Pioneer Post is compiled by the International Goals Committee from letters and reports of U.S. pioneers in more than 100 countries. Previously provided only to pioneers, the publication, full of heart-warming stories, practical advice and moving accounts of pioneers' spiritual growth in serving Bahá’u’lláh, is now available to the entire Bahá’í community.

NOTE: All prices include postage. Make checks or money orders payable to Bahá’í Services Fund earmarked "IGC books." Send your order and payment to the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. [Page 7]

CAMPUS CLIPS

In direct response to the Six Year Plan, the Bahá’í Clubs at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, and Arizona State University in Phoenix are working to add a course on the Faith into their curricula. Both clubs are making presentations to university faculty soon, so please include them in your prayers.

One of the objectives for the Six Year Plan, suggested by the Universal House of Justice, is: "Greater involvement of the Faith in the life of human society... Foster appreciation of the Faith in scholarly and academic circles by developing Bahá’í scholarship, by endeavoring to have the Faith included in the curricula and textbooks of schools and universities, and by other means."

The National Youth Committee has several course outlines on file from past Bahá’í courses offered on various campuses—Kent State University, the University of Nevada-Reno, Yale University, and some others. Please feel free to contact the committee for information or advice.

The Bahá’í Association at Santa Rosa Junior College is on the move! Pamphlets were given to all club members to encourage personal and club teaching efforts. Flyers were passed out at the school's World Peace Day public forum. In September, the club sponsored a booth during Club Daze showing the "Mona Story" and "20/20" tape.

George Washington University in Washington, D.C., sponsored the showing of the video on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., "A Tribute to His Dream." The response from medical school students and faculty was tremendous—15 students asked about the Faith while five showed up at the next fireside!

The Bahá’í Club at Williams College in Williamstown, Massachusetts, is holding firesides on the North Adams State College campus, where there is no Bahá’í Club, as well as on its own campus.

The Assembly of Butte-Silver Bow, Montana, reports that there are no Bahá’í students attending Montana Tech. If you are interested in attending the school as a homefront pioneer, please contact the National Youth Committee (312-869-9039).

The Bermuda Bahá’í Winter School will be held February 6-8 at the Elbow Beach Hotel in Paget.

The featured speakers will be Dr. Jane Faily and Ms. Shirlee Smith.

For reservations, phone (toll-free) 1-800-223-7434 and specify "Bahá’í Winter School."

For information, write to the Bahá’í Winter School Committee, P.O. Box HM 742, Hamilton HMCX, Bermuda.

‘Yellow Rose II’ plants seeds of Faith in Texas

About 60 Bahá’ís from across the U.S. and as far away as England gathered August 8-24 in Livingston, Texas, for the "Yellow Rose II" teaching project.

The participation of youth was essential to the success of the project, which was sponsored by the District Teaching Committee of East Texas No. 2 and directed by John Khadem, a Bahá’í youth from Louisiana.

Painting the parsonage of St. Luke's United Methodist Church was a community service that led to the opportunity to present "The Promise of World Peace" to the minister in the presence of his entire congregation.

As they worked, the youth attracted the attention of the local press. An article appeared in the Sunday edition of a local paper including a photograph of the youth in action.

The article described the shining qualities of the Bahá’í youth, quoting their statements about establishing world peace through community service, and mentioned that the youth planned to travel to San Francisco following the project to take part in the Bahá’í peace conference there.

Publicity about the service project, and help from Frank McElmore, a Native American Bahá’í from Dallas, won permission for the youth to work on the nearby Alabama-Coushatta Indian Reservation where they raked, picked up trash and cut down weeds.

They also helped stuff envelopes in the Tribal offices, and by the end of the week had won the admiration of the Native Americans working there and were given a Certificate of Appreciation.

As they said goodbye to their new friends, the youth were invited to come back any time, and were offered a place to stay on the Reservation.

Bahá’í youth in the ‘Yellow Rose II’ teaching project, held August 8-24 in the Livingston, Texas, area, help paint the parsonage at St. Luke's United Methodist Church.

Youth can help ‘redeem roses’

Perhaps you've caught wind of the movement that is presently sweeping the country.

It is a movement in which the believers of the U.S. are arising to proclaim the Faith and to make personal sacrifices in their contributions to the National Fund in the "Spirit of the Roses" sent by the Bahá’í prisoners in Iran.

In what ways will the youth arise to redeem the roses? Please send in your special contributions, photographs, and victory stories! Let's increase the youth participation in the National Fund for our friends in Iran!

ONGOING TEACHING PROJECTS

Project Lua (upstate New York), Jeanne Delaney, 716-825-5457.

The Lowell Project (Massachusetts), Lorraine Matthews, 617-459-1604.

Project Bergenfield/Dumont (New Jersey), Roger Harrison, 201-385-8904.

Amoz Gibson (South Dakota), Ed Roberts, 605-462-6309.

Victory Harvest (Kansas), Phyllis Medrano, 316-662-8243.

Amoz Gibson Project (Nebraska), Kay Webster, 402-846-5459.

Victory Harvest (Kansas City, Missouri), Bahá’í Center, 816-241-9478.

Olinga Project (Virginia), Jamshid Amini, 703-820-0610.

New Jerusalem (Georgia), Layli Miller, 404-993-7067.

Raul Pavon Project (Phoenix, Arizona), Judith Spychalski, 602-269-2703.

Mona Project (Fresno, California), Gayle Scott, 209-264-7393.

Aziz Project (Idaho), Ann Sollars, 208-785-4495.

Sacramento Project (California), Donald Erby, 916-381-5419.

Heart of Texas, Lynn Richards, 512-492-3147.

Angus Cowan Project (Seminole County, Florida), Martini Levy, 305-323-6805.

Carolina Victory Train (North Carolina), Sam Williams, 919-679-2623.

AKISA (Santa Ana, California), Adelina Brown, 714-554-6846.

Annual Winter Teaching Project (Southern New Mexico/West Texas), Bill Lynch, 505-885-6567.

YOUTH

The Bahá’í National Youth Committee recently received this letter from a youth on the Amoz Gibson Project in Wanblee, South Dakota, addressed to the youth of the nation.

The Amoz Gibson Project is now on a permanent site, owned by Bahá’ís. The flames of love have been fanned into a prairie fire of enthusiastic service to the Blessed Beauty. The Bahá’í Youth Club has been reactivated with creative and far-reaching plans for spreading the fire.

In August, with the purchase of land and a double-wide mobile home, and the donation of a second mobile home, the project moved back to its original home in Wanblee. Repairing, remodeling and cleaning absorbed most of the time and money of the project and its staff... all two of us.

But it wasn't long before the explosive combination of the Bahá’í Faith, the Amoz Gibson Teaching Project, many prayers, Wanblee, Ed Roberts, and that ever-present deadwood (for fuel) had ignited both the curiosity and smoldering dedication of local Bahá’ís. Soon other youth, such as Calvin Pumpkinseed and Kathy Vicente, were drawn into the fire. The defunct Bahá’í Youth Club was once again raising the Standard of Bahá’u’lláh’s Cause in the heart of America.

In October, Bahá’ís from across South Dakota added their fuel to the fire in a weekend-long gathering to speed the reconstruction and cleaning of the project site. Painting, skirting the crawl space, building new walls, adding plumbing, washing, music and singing, tempered with fellowship and teaching opportunities brought joy to Wanblee.

The most intense heat is coming from the Bahá’í Youth Club. The first reunion of the youth resulted in the election of officers; resumption of the "Lakota Bahá’í Times," a monthly newsletter; plans for a coffee house to be held four nights a week at the Bahá’í Center in Wanblee, and plans for social events and a discussion on "the Thanksgiving harvest of hearts for Bahá’u’lláh."

We look forward to youth from across the country joining us at Christmas when we'll celebrate Christ's return with gifts of new Bahá’ís.

The "Spirit of the Rose" will bear memorable pages that will show our brothers and sisters that the Youth Movement is aflame the year 'round.

We're here to stay, burning away the veils between the Native American nations and Bahá’u’lláh. Come spread the fire of your love.

Peace, Tom Haanen Wanblee, South Dakota

Some splendid ideas for ‘year of service’

A number of exciting new service opportunities have recently opened for youth considering their year of service to the Cause. Among them are the following posts:

Up to 20 youth are invited to serve in Botswana under the direction of that country's National Spiritual Assembly to help with teaching, consolidation and development work. English-speaking youth are encouraged to apply for this full-scale effort in Africa.

• Young men are still needed to man the African Mobile Institutes organized by several National Spiritual Assemblies in cooperation with the Office of Social and Economic Development at the World Center. Both English- and French-speaking men are needed, and those with mechanical and/or audio-visual skills are especially urged to apply.

The World Center urgently needs young men over 18 years old to work in the gardens there.

The National Spiritual Assembly of Sierra Leone has requested several youth to fill its needs in both community development and the organization of Bahá’í children's classes. Both men and women are welcome to apply.

• In Papua New Guinea, the National Assembly seeks three projecteers and hopes to sponsor the youth to serve as an assistant to the NSA secretary, to serve as a teacher in a tutorial school, and to work as an orderly in a medical assistance effort.

All of these positions, and many more, both domestic and international, are waiting to be filled.

Young people who expect to apply for their year of service are urged to contact the National Youth Committee at the Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039 for an application form and a complete list of current opportunities. As placement can take several months, youth are asked to apply as early as possible.

Youth Conference set for July ’87 in London, Ontario

A Bahá’í International Youth Conference will be held July 8-12, 1987, at the University of Western Ontario in London, Ontario, Canada.

The conference theme is "Let It Be This Generation."

Bahá’í and non-Bahá’í youth between 14-28 are welcome. There will be no programs for children or adults.

The cost (which includes four nights' shared accommodations, 10 meals, and registration fee) is $150. Look for more details in upcoming issues of The American Bahá’í.

Top contributors during Mashíyyat

For the month of Mashíyyat (September 27-October 15), the following districts had the most youth contributing to the National Fund:

California South No. 1 (seven contributors), Illinois North No. 2 (five), New Jersey (five), and Pennsylvania (three).

The following districts tied for fourth place with two contributors each:

California Central No. 2, California North No. 1, California South No. 2, Illinois South, Maryland/ Washington, D.C., Minnesota South, Ohio North, and South Carolina West.

If your district is not listed, one or fewer youth contributed to the National Fund during Mashíyyat. Youth contributors are counted as all youth between the ages of 15 and 21. When you contribute to the National Fund, be sure to include your Bahá’í I.D. number so that you can be counted as a youth. [Page 8]

BAHÁ’Í CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1. The independence of the Faith is protected from side influences because only Bahá’ís may give it financial support.

3. The Bahá’í Fund was established by —Bahá.

7. "Even though such contributions may be because of the poverty of the donor..." (Messages from the Universal House of Justice: 1968-73, p. 59)

8. One hears with it.

9. A falsehood.

11. An appeal addressed to everyone in the community is the only permissible way in which to make the of the Cause known. (Deepening packet: "The Bahá’í Fund," No. 4)

12. Opposite of out.

14. "...large numbers of small combine into a mighty river that can carry along the work of the Cause." (Messages from the Universal House of Justice: 1968-73, pp. 59-60)

15. The institution of the local Fund was first begun in the ancient land of the Faith's birth:

16. Saint (initials).

17. A principle guard of the Faith is that it accepts no outside financial support.

18. First three letters in "Bahá."

20. Our contributions to the Fund are once a Bahá’í month.

22. Horsepower (initials).

24. To go astray; make a mistake.

26. Month of the Birth of the Báb (abbreviation).

27. "All gifts by non-Bahá’ís are to be used for charity (Shoghi Effendi, Citadel of Faith, p. 87)

28. Americans need to sacrifice more in contributing to the Fund because it helps to support the work of the Faith around the world.

29. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá met with the friends, both black and white, when He visited Washington, D.C.

30. Now that we have about our privilege in giving to the Fund, we must act!

31. Bahá’í Era (initials).

DOWN

1. It is the sacred of every conscientious and faithful servant of Bahá’u’lláh who desires to see His Cause advance, to contribute freely and generously for the increase of the Fund." (Shoghi Effendi, Bahá’í Administration, p. 41)

2. Set (scrambled).

4. "Moreover the unity of the friends in sacrifice draws upon them the confirmation of the Beauty." (Messages from the Universal House of Justice: 1968-73, pp. 59-60)

5. Not as much.

6. The Fund as a Bahá’í institution is necessary to the and development of the Faith. (Deepening packet: "The Bahá’í Fund," No. 1).

10. The friends are asked not to incur debts to sacrifice for the Fund.

13. One of the primary purposes of the Fund is to promote the ing work.

15. "...mob chology is not to be used to influence the audience to pay." (Shoghi Effendi, Bahá’í News No. 67, Oct. 1932)

16. Opposite of profane.

19. The four Bahá’í Funds are the National, Continental and International.

21. Hawaiian feast (scrambled).

23. "Every Bahá’í, no matter how , should have confidence that his spiritual progress... will largely depend (on) his readiness to support materially the divine institutions of his Faith." (Shoghi Effendi, Dawn of a New Day, p. 68)

25. ".. rewards are assured when the entire body of American believers arise to fulfill their glorious destiny." (Deepening packet: "The Bahá’í Fund," No. 11)

Puzzle copyright ©1986 by Juliette Whittaker

Brilliant Star index a wellspring of helpful ideas

What do you do when you need a story for a Holy Day? Or if you would like a crafts idea to make something to sell for the Fund? Well, many Bahá’ís around the world turn to their index of Brilliant Star magazine. It's the easy way to find an article about sacrifice, or a story to complement a lesson for Bahá’í class about obeying laws, etc.

A year of Brilliant Star runs from the March/April issue (which begins our New Year) through the January/February issue.

At that point, Frances Worthington in North Carolina collects the six issues of that Bahá’í year and sets about indexing. Categories include the Central Figures of the Faith; teaching; and activities and virtues, in addition to authors and artists.

When the task is completed, the proof copy is sent to the manager of the magazine in New Jersey, who arranges for it to be professionally typed and copied.

And then it's available for you. An index for a single year costs only $2. If you order 3-6 indexes (same year or a combination of years) they cost $1.50 each, and if you order 7-12 indexes they cost only $1.25 each.

The indexes can be ordered by sending your check and a list of the specific ones you want to: Brilliant Star Subscriber Service, 5010 Austin Road, Hixson, TN 37343.

The single indexes begin with the year 138 B.E. (1982-83) when the magazine was still called Child's Way. There is also a 10-year index of Child's Way, preceding the single issues.

For information about the big 10-year index, please contact the editor, Debbie Bley, at the above address.

Amaze your friends with your ability to locate timeless stories and articles relevant to your needs. Order your Brilliant Star indexes today!

San Diego presents World Peace Awards

On Saturday, October 4, Bahá’í communities in the greater San Diego, California, area presented World Peace Awards to two organizations, "Physicians for Social Responsibility" and "Beyond War," for their untiring efforts in the cause of peace.

The awards program, sponsored by the Bahá’ís of Carlsbad, was held at the Carlsbad Community Cultural Arts Center.

Awards were presented by Eileen Norman and Richard Lewellen. Music was by pianist Mark Ochu, guitarist Milt Norman, and Seaforth & Jenkins.

UPCOMING EVENTS AT LOUHELEN

December 27-January 1: Winter School, with adult, youth and children's classes and activities.

January 16-19: Teacher Training Conference for local children's class teachers (sponsored by the National Teaching Committee).

January 16-18: Preparation for Marriage Conference.

January 23-25: Conference on Substance Abuse.

February 12-17: Midwinter Rejuvenation: Study of The Hidden Words.

February 13-15: Regional Bahá’í Schools Conference (sponsored by the National Teaching Committee).

February 20-22: Singles' Conference.

March 21-22: Naw-Rúz Gala.

April 3-5: Spring Celebration of Growth—especially for seekers, new believers and youth.

April 24-26: Regional Youth Conference.

May 15-17: Conference for Children and Their Parents.

Details on these and Summer 1987 conferences are available from the Louhelen Bahá’í School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423 (phone 313-653-5033).

DON'T LET WARS DRAGON AND ON WAGE PEACE

Children at the Northern New Mexico District Convention fought the 'dragons' of war this year, with 45 six to 11-year-olds lining up in costumes they had made to form a segmented peace dragon behind a 'damsel' who bore a poster that read 'Don't let wars dragon and on... WAGE PEACE.' Afterward, photos were taken of the peace dragon to be used in newspaper coverage of the Convention in northern New Mexico. The 12 to 14-year-olds completed a service project in which 16 dining table centerpieces with an autumn theme were built in the morning and taken during the lunch break to a local nursing home whose director had expressed a need for centerpieces.

Issaquah Bahá’ís sponsor prize-winning float

The Spiritual Assembly and Bahá’í community of Issaquah, Washington, recently sponsored a prize-winning float in the Salmon Days parade.

The Bahá’ís also had a booth whose theme was "Wage Peace" from which were dispensed balloons, buttons, bumper stickers and peace messages.

The event, held October 4-5, attracted about 150,000 people.

Brilliant Star

Brilliant Star one year $12.00 (six issues) two years $23.00 foreign, surface, one year $15.00 foreign, surface, two years $28.00 foreign, air (A.O.), one year $25.00 foreign, air (A.O.), two years $47.50

Enclosed is my gift of $ to the Brilliant Star Endowment Fund, established in honor of the Bahá’í children of Iran, for the purpose of developing materials for children. I understand that my gift will become part of a perpetual fund whose earnings will support this purpose.

Send to: Brilliant Star Suburban Office Park 5010 Austin Rd. Hixson, Tn. 37343 [Page 9]

Family Unity Night (Fun)

FIRST WEEK OF JANUARY: Muhammad's birth, January 8. Thought for the week: "Say: He is God alone: God the eternal! He begetteth not, and He is not begotten; And there is none like unto Him."—Muhammad Prayer: Bahá’í Prayers, 1982, p. 29, No. 2. Lesson: Read and discuss one or more of the suggested lesson materials: 1. God and His Messengers by David Hofman, pp. 25-29 (story of Muhammad). 2. Some Answered Questions, pp. 18-24. 3. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá by H.M. Balyúzí, pp. 304, 217-19. Activity: Bread dough sculptures: Materials—4 cups flour, 1 cup salt, and 1 1/2 cups water. Combine ingredients; mix first with a spoon and then by hand. Knead on a generously floured board until smooth. Add flour or a few drops of water if necessary. Keep extra dough in the refrigerator. Use the dough to make anything you wish—little animals, beads, baskets, small lumpy people (dough put through a garlic press or grated makes good hair). Bake the shaped pieces within one hour after making them for 2-4 hours (depending on size) at 275-300°. Figures can be painted after cooling and/or sprayed with acrylic coating. (Just think, if you had lived in Arabia before Muhammad was born, these creations might have been idols to worship!) Refreshments: hot chocolate.

SECOND WEEK OF JANUARY: Sultán (Sovereignty), January 19. Thought for the week: "That which the Lord hath ordained as the sovereign remedy and the mightiest instrument for the healing of all the world is the union of all its peoples in one universal Cause, one common Faith...."—Bahá’u’lláh Prayer: Bahá’í Prayers, p. 204. Lesson: Read and discuss one or more of the suggested lesson materials: 1. The Hidden Words, No. 15, p. 7. 2. Gleanings, pp. 255, 210-12. 3. Bahá’í World Faith, p. 286, 1st para. 4. Kitáb-i-lqán, pp. 123-25. Activity: Make music in unison. Pick a song to sing together in harmony or in parts, such as "God Is One" or "Soy Bahá’í." Imagine how difficult it would be to sing the song if everyone did not agree on the same song, pitch or speed. Make instruments to go along with the song (if desired). Take a paper towel roll, punch some holes in it, and cover one end with waxed paper and a rubber band. Hum into the other end. Refreshments: candied popcorn or apples.

THIRD WEEK OF JANUARY: Martin Luther King Day, January 19. Thought for the week: "I have a dream that some day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: 'We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.'"—Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Prayer: Bahá’í Prayers, pp. 102-3. Lesson: Read the following aloud together, or one family member reads in advance and tells: Portals to Freedom by Howard Colby Ives, pp. 63-67 (the incident of the "black rose"). Or, each family member tells one incident he/she has experienced that helped him to understand the feelings of a person of another color. Hold hands in a circle and repeat a round (or nine) "Remover of Difficulties." Activity: Clap Ball. This game is played by boys and girls in Cameroon, a country in Africa near the equator. To play, you need a round fruit or small rubber ball. A straight line divides two teams with each standing a few feet from the line. The first player throws the ball to any player on the other team. All players clap once as he throws. When the ball is caught they stamp their feet. The catcher throws the ball to someone on the other side and all players clap and stamp as before. This repeats over and over. Both teams must stay off the dividing line. If a player misses a throw he returns the ball to the tosser, who throws it to him again. No one wins or loses; the game is played just for the enjoyment of the rhythm. Refreshments: a box of chocolates or other favorite dessert; milk.

FOURTH WEEK OF JANUARY: The friends of East and West. Thought for the week: "The dearest wish of this servant of Thy Threshold is to behold the friends of East and West in close embrace...."—Bahá’í Prayers, p. 159. Prayer: Bahá’í Prayers, pp. 158-59 ("O Thou Provider...") Lesson: Read and discuss the letter from the Iranian believers that accompanied the precious gift of roses sent to the National Convention, and the article on p. 1 of the October issue of The American Bahá’í Activity: Consult on what your family can do to redeem the roses. You might even develop a step-by-step plan to help you achieve your goal and begin to put it into action this week! Refreshments: your favorite pudding, or (if you're Persian) Sholé zand. (A single rose might decorate the room.)

FIFTH WEEK OF JANUARY: Life after death. Thought for the week: "I have made death a messenger of joy to thee."—The Hidden Words, p. 11, No. 32. Prayer: pp. 46-47. Lesson: Read and discuss one or more of the suggested materials: 1. The Hidden Words, p. 5, No. 6 (Arabic). 2. The Divine Art of Living (1960 revised edition), p. 123, No. 3. 3. The Divine Art of Living, pp. 123-24, No. 5. 4. Paris Talks, pp. 114-16. Activity: Read aloud "Portrait of a steadfast believer" on p. 19 of the October issue of The American Bahá’í, and share prayers for this progress of this devoted soul. Refreshments: bread (home-made or biscuits?) and butter with honey. Serve with milk or tea.

Harrisburg Bahá’ís mark Day of Peace

About 60 people, half of whom were not Bahá’ís, attended a program September 21 sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, to commemorate the International Day of Peace.

The mayor and county commissioners proclaimed the day "International Day of Peace" in Harrisburg and Dauphin County, a TV station covered the program, and the Greater Harrisburg Interfaith Peace Committee helped by providing a speaker and promoting the event.

Author Lawrence Miller to teach business course during Bosch School's Winter II adult session

EDUCATION

Lawrence M. Miller, a Bahá’í from Roswell, Georgia, who is the author of American Spirit: Visions of a New Corporate Culture, will teach a course on "Bahá’í Principles in Business—And Vice-Versa" December 29-January 3 at the Bosch Bahá’í School near Santa Cruz, California.

Other courses during Bosch's Winter II session for adults and youth (15 and older) are "Vignettes of Bahá’ís of the West" by Nasratollah Rassekh, and an in-depth study of The Seven Valleys by Vida Bertrand.

The session begins with registration at 3:30 Monday afternoon and ends with lunch on Saturday. The rate for adults and youth is $135.

Mr. Miller, who is president of L.M. Miller & Company, a consulting and training firm specializing in improving productivity and the quality of the working environment, has been engaged for the past 14 years in efforts to improve the performance of business organizations.

His company specializes in changing the total culture of organizations from the CEO to the hourly employee. Services include providing individualized feedback to senior executives, management training, establishing total team involvement systems, and training clients' internal consultants.

Other books by Mr. Miller that were previously published are Behavior Management: The New Science of Managing People at Work, and Barbarians to Bureaucrats: Passages Through the Corporate Life Cycle.

He has also completed an audio cassette program, "Winning Through Teamwork," based on the book American Spirit.

LAWRENCE M. MILLER

Regional Child Education Conferences are scheduled at six sites in January; be sure to register well in advance

Regional Child Education Training Conferences will be held January 17-19 at five sites in the U.S. and January 23-25 at a sixth.

Participants in the first five of these conferences (see below for the schedule of the Southwestern conference in New Mexico) should plan to arrive in the late afternoon or early evening on Friday (January 16) and to leave after the close of the conference at noon Monday (January 19).

Conference fees for registration and room and board for three nights (2 1/2 days) will vary for each conference (see below). A non-refundable $10 advance fee is required to secure registration, and should be sent to the conference registrar. Information will then be mailed to the registrant.

Parents are asked to make arrangements at home for their children. There will be no provision for child care. (In special cases, call the registrar.)

Central—Louhelen Bahá’í School, Davison, Michigan. Registrar: Louhelen Bahá’í School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423 (phone 313-653-5033). Cost: $78.

Northeastern—Wilhelm Institute, Teaneck, New Jersey. Registrar: Judy Moran, Wolcott, CT 06716 (phone 203-879-1941. Cost (anticipated): $65.

Northwestern—Boise State University, Boise, Idaho. Registrar: Carol Hudson, Boise, ID 83706 (phone 208-336-1328). Cost (anticipated): $65.

South Central—Dallas (Texas) Bahá’í Center. Registrar: Rhonda Palmer, Allen, TX 75002 (phone 214-727-4310. Attendance limited to 50 persons. Cost (anticipated): $55.

Southeastern—Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute, Hemingway, South Carolina. Registrar: Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute, Route 2, Box 71, Hemingway, SC 29554 (phone 803-558-5093). Flight arrangements should be made to and from Myrtle Beach, arriving between 3-7 p.m. Friday. Cost: $60.

Southwestern—The Hummingbird Resort, Jemez (near Albuquerque), New Mexico. Dates: January 23-25 (see special notice). Registrar: Gwen Rix, Corrales, NM 87048 (phone 505-897-0185. Cost (anticipated): $70.

REGISTRATION FORM

CHILD EDUCATION TEACHER TRAINING CONFERENCE (Please print or type)

Name ________________________________________________

Mailing address ________________________________________

City ___________________ State ________ Zip ____________

Telephone ____________________________________________

Name of sponsoring Assembly (if applicable) __________________

I have enclosed a $10 deposit fee: [ ] (Make check payable to "Bahá’í Education Conference")

SPECIAL NOTICE: The Southwest Children's Teacher Training Conference will be held January 23-25, not January 17-19 as earlier announced. Participants should plan to arrive for the opening orientation meeting at 8 p.m. Friday, January 23 (sandwiches will be served). The conference will end at 4 p.m. Sunday, January 25.

Louhelen reaches out to increase use by groups in community

As a part of its efforts to have high visibility in the community, to become known as a service-oriented institution, and to generate additional revenue, the Louhelen Bahá’í School has increased its use by groups from the Flint-area community.

In the past, Louhelen has been the site of conferences by such social service agencies as the Michigan Legal Services, Michigan Soil and Water Conservation Officers, YMCA, YWCA, Flint Human Relations Commission, and others.

Louhelen has hosted conferences by religious groups such as Spiritual Frontiers and Fellowship, the Coptic Fellowship, and retreats by area church groups, and has been the site of educational activities for the Davison Adult Education Program, for ELDERHOSTEL, and for the General Motors Institute.

In addition to many repeat conferences, new groups are using Louhelen this year. The Davison Montessori Academy rents the classrooms on weekdays, and has more than 100 children involved in morning or afternoon sessions.

Two major Detroit social service groups—Judson Center and the Delta Sigma Theta sorority—have scheduled conferences next February and March, while a number of other groups have inquired about using the facilities.

The rental of Louhelen by such groups has almost tripled over the last two years, due in large part to the growing reputation of the school's facilities and services.

Revenue from rentals now accounts for more than 20 per cent of Louhelen's income, and the number of people attending such events has grown to more than 500 for overnight events and nearly 1,000 for one-day events.

The National Spiritual Assembly has removed the administrative rights of ________ of Hillsboro, Missouri. Mr. ________ is also restricted from attending Bahá’í schools and conferences where children are present. [Page 10]

WORLD NEWS

A well-attended exhibit at the University of Zurich, Switzerland, recently honored the late Professor August Forel, one of the first Bahá’ís in Switzerland, an eminent scientist, medical and natural sciences researcher, and social reformer whose portrait appears on the Swiss 1,000-franc note.

The exhibit attracted scientists, government representatives, and wide radio, TV and newspaper coverage. ...

A Peace Service held October 19 at the Bahá’í House of Worship in Australia drew an audience of about 850 including the Governor-General, Sir Ninian, and Lady Stephen, the Hand of the Cause and Mrs. Collis Featherstone, and many political and community leaders.

A simultaneous program was held for some 200 children.

Sir Ninian, who said he was "highly impressed by the harmonious blending of people of diverse cultures," read from Isaiah as part of the program which was professionally video taped and also included Persian/Australian choral singing and an appearance by a famous guest singer, Kamahl Gave....

Also in Australia, nearly one-fourth the population of Herberton in Far North Queensland including 12 non-Bahá’í organizations attended a Bahá’í-sponsored Peace Exposition at which the Shire chairman planted a rose for peace and an Aboriginal descendant of the Jittabul tribe spoke on ways of maintaining diversity while uniting the world....

The German Bahá’í Publishing Trust participated October 1-6 in an International Book Fair in Frankfurt, Germany, whose theme was "India."

A model of the Bahá’í House of Worship in India was displayed, attracting thousands of on-lookers from around the world.

Federal Chancellor Helmut Kohl again paid a short visit to the display, and reaffirmed his "great sympathies with Bahá’ís." Many others expressed concern for the persecuted friends in Iran.

The Publishing Trust was invited to take part in next year's Book Fair in Singapore....

In South Germany, all 204 members of the Landtag (State Parliament) are to receive the peace statement from the Presidency of Peutinger Collegium with a stirring cover letter referring to the persecutions in Iran and to the Bahá’ís as "devoted to peace and peaceful cooperation and true brotherhood."

The Peutinger Collegium, a humanistic foundation in Munich, is headed by a former Secretary General of the European Council and comprised of leading influential persons in South Bavaria and the Munich area....

A National Peace Conference, held October 19 in Cologne, West Germany, attracted 700 people, about 10 per cent of whom were not Bahá’ís.

Marlene Lenz, a German member of the European Parliament and chairman of its Committee for Women's Rights, spoke on the "Contribution of Women to World Peace."

‘Heart of Texas’ campaign beats even stronger

The "Heart of Texas" teaching campaign has been running successfully for more than a year now with direct teaching/consolidation in Texas communities where a constantly growing receptivity to the Faith is evident.

Since the campaign began 26 people including many blacks and Hispanics have declared their belief in Bahá’u’lláh. Perhaps the most exciting declaration took place in Kerrville where 93-year-old Concepcion Garza embraced the Faith.

Weekend teaching has involved about 50 adults plus youth and children. Since August 1985 teams have taught in New Braunfels, Copperas Cove, Belton, Manor, Kerrville, Temple, Taylor, Seguin and Luling.

In Temple and Taylor, six people accepted the Faith in one weekend. Included on the Temple team were people who had never done direct teaching before.

As a result of the campaign, two Assemblies have been formed and others have been strengthened.

Paul Pettit has served as a consultant during the campaign and Hormoz Bastani has been a frequent team member.

Jack and Toni McCants taught in Kerrville last November, prior to the District teaching conference.

Traveling teachers are urged to enlist in the "Heart of Texas" campaign for a week or more.

Also in Texas, the Sir’rullah Vahdat Campaign, named in honor of a former member of the National Spiritual Assembly of Iran who was martyred last May after two years in prison, will get under way December 20-24 in Temple and December 25-28 in Taylor.

The Vahdat Campaign is an all-out project to be headed by a full-time coordinator. Needed are full- or part-time teachers, and support teams to provide transportation, prepare meals, care for children, and handle proclamation and public relations.

Food costs are about $6 a day, and limited hospitality is available.

To sign up, phone Lynn Richards, 512-492-0018, or Virginia Rogers, 512-499-8676.

The election of the first Spiritual Assembly of New Braunfels, Texas, takes place in October 1985 as a result of the ‘Heart of Texas’ teaching campaign.

Members of a ‘Heart of Texas’ teaching team talk things over following a day of teaching in Copperas Cove in which there was one declaration.

Spirit of the Roses

... pledged 189 subscriptions to the Brilliant Star Connection. They'll be made available to Bahá’í children or children's classes in the U.S. or overseas who could otherwise not receive Brilliant Star magazine.

The friends in South Alabama/Northwest Florida sent news of the first declaration in their "Everlasting Rose" project. The declaration was recorded at the celebration in October of the Birth of the Báb, the same night that the district's rose began to be circulated throughout its communities.

The Bahá’ís of Anthony, New Mexico, renewed their contributions to the National Fund in memory of the sacrifices of the Iranian friends. They write: "This check represents donations from nine adults and 23 children over a few months. We have learned of the importance of saving one's pennies, dimes and nickels. More than $25 of this contribution was donated in pennies."

As a part of their efforts in the "Spirit of the Roses," the Bahá’ís in Park Ridge, Illinois, presented the peace statement to the city's mayor.

As a result of their Feast consultation on the gift of the roses, the believers in Redlands, California, sent an extra $189 as a gift to the National Fund, and plan to send more gifts of $189 each as they become available. The community gift was immediately matched by another contribution of $189 from one of the friends attending the Feast.

Bahá’ís in Connecticut report plans to read the prayer for the martyrs and their families every day.

The Spiritual Assembly of Ventura, California, reported as a part of its "Rose Connection" plans to help in the building of five local Bahá’í Centers to be used as local Hazíratu’l-Quds and for tutorial schools in Transkei.

The Southeastern Wisconsin area has already surpassed the pledge set at its Town Meeting of $1,890 to the National Fund.

One family shared a note that expressed the sentiments of all who wrote of their efforts to redeem the roses: "This extra contribution is part of our extra effort during the 189 days starting today. It is appropriate that we remember our heroic martyrs on the day we celebrate the birth of someone Who also gave His life, and set the ultimate example. We promise you 189 days to remember!"

Be like the fountain—empty yourself, and be refilled.

Ohio Bahá’í cited for contributions to the handicapped

Cora M. Watters, a Bahá’í from Lynx, Ohio, has been recognized by the Hopewell Special Education Regional Resource Center in Hillsboro for her contribution to the advancement of handicapped individuals.

Mrs. Watters received the group's Exceptional Achievement Award after being chosen from about 1,000 nominees, of whom 40 were ultimately honored.

She was nominated for developing extracurricular activities at the school for Mentally Retarded/Developmentally Disadvantaged (MR/DD) where she teaches music and art.

Mrs. Watters was nominated by a young man who had been placed by error in a home for the mentally retarded. Recognizing the error, she worked to have him removed from the home, took him into her own home and helped to rehabilitate him.

Mrs. Watters, the education chairman of the Shawnee Nation, United Remnant Band, is a member of the District Teaching Committee of Southern Ohio.

New Haven Bahá’ís take lead to back UN-sponsored ‘First Earth Run’ in city

Responding to information provided by the National Spiritual Assembly's Office of External Affairs, the Bahá’í community of New Haven, Connecticut, took the lead in coordinating activities for the passage through that city September 16 of the UN-sponsored "First Earth Run," the global torch relay for peace.

Preparations included press releases to 20 media contacts, invitations to 30 ministers, and coordination with City Hall for a statement from the mayor and permission to assemble on the city Green.

The New Haven Uptown Council provided decorations, the Spiritual Assembly supplied refreshments, and a Bahá’í, Paul Huening, gave technical assistance for sound and lighting.

Dozens of positive contacts were made for the Faith with peace groups, social action groups, runners' groups, etc.

The ecumenical program included the Bahá’í prayer for mankind, prayers and reflections on peace by several Christian ministers and the chaplain from Albertus Magnus College.

The event was covered by the New Haven Register.

Some of the positive results were:

The Bahá’ís were invited to speak in religion classes at Albertus Magnus College; the Register's religion editor wants more information about the Faith and plans to do a feature article on the New Haven Bahá’ís; the Greater New Haven Peace Council invited the Bahá’ís to a meeting and asked for their participation in an ecumenical prayer service on October 26; the mayor's office expressed its highest regard for the peace statement and peace efforts of the Bahá’ís; and many people in the area have now heard of the Faith through the "First Earth Run" activity.

‘Who Is Family?’ theme of N.C. conference

"Who Is the Bahá’í Family?" is the theme of a conference to be held February 20-22 at the Betsy-Jeff Penn 4-H Camp in Reidsville, North Carolina.

For more information, please contact Diane McKinley, Durham, NC 27511 (phone 919-469-2783). [Page 11]

TEACHING STORIES

Seated in a chair, I wondered if I would have the chance to teach someone the Bahá’í Faith today. I was still reflecting on this as I turned to look for my son. Suddenly a voice from behind me brought me back to reality. "Would you like someone else to cut your hair?"

"No," I replied. "I was looking for my son."

As the woman tucked the towel around my neck I asked her, "Did you know that the descendants of the House of David have red hair?"

Puzzled, she looked at me with a half-smile and asked who David was. I told her he was one of the kings of Israel.

She said her oldest son's name was David and that her daughter planned to study Hebrew in the fall.

She smiled again and said, "My daughter Melissa is planning to visit Israel someday." I mentioned to her that my children and I had visited Israel about five years ago and that Israel had felt like home to all of us.

"Maybe," I said, "it had to do with the fact that my family and my husband's were descendants of the Sephardic Jews."

"Melissa would really enjoy meeting you," she said.

"This is getting very interesting," I said, "because my daughter's middle name is Melissa."

She asked me, "What are your other children's names?"

I said I had another daughter, Vanessa, and a son, Dean.

She stopped what she was doing and asked, slowly, "What did you say your son's name is?"

"Dean."

"My son is also named Dean," she said. As we looked into each other's eyes and smiled, I knew that this conversation had been more than mere coincidence.

The golden moment had come: "Have you heard about the Bahá’í Faith?" I asked.

She looked at me and said, "Yes, but I don't remember when."

It was about two hours later before I left the Beauty College, probably one of the longest hair trims in history. My hair was shorter than I had intended, but my spirits were ecstatic.

We had agreed to meet that evening at a fireside where friends of mine had asked me to speak.

Marilyn came, and soon afterward she declared her faith in Bahá’u’lláh. As a result, we arranged to meet her daughter Melissa during the San Francisco conference.

My family and I brought Melissa to the conference and taught her the Faith. Since then she has also declared her belief in Bahá’u’lláh and is being nurtured by me and the friends in Watsonville.

Delia Lopez, Quartz Hill, California

Homefront pioneers needed in many goal areas

During the Six Year Plan, the National Teaching Committee is calling for dedicated Bahá’ís to arise as homefront pioneers and disperse to goal areas throughout the country.

The greatest need for pioneers is in those areas where direct teaching has brought the recent enrollment of great numbers of people, especially in South Carolina and Georgia.

In many localities in these states there is a crucial need for community development. There are also many other places where functionally weak Assemblies could benefit greatly from the galvanizing spirit of dedicated and deepened Bahá’ís. These localities, too, rank as high priority goals.

Other priority areas are Indian Reservations and state capitals that do not have Assemblies (Dover, Delaware; Carson City, Nevada; Trenton, New Jersey; Pierre, South Dakota; Montpelier, Vermont; and Cheyenne, Wyoming).

Jeopardized Assemblies and Groups that could form Assemblies with the arrival of one or two more Bahá’ís are other goal areas where homefront pioneers could settle to serve the Faith.

Owing to the great variety of goals, those who are willing to serve the Faith as homefront pioneers should evaluate their own needs regarding climate, employment, schools, etc.

Before contacting the National Teaching Committee, prospective pioneers should have a general idea of where they would like to go. This will help the committee to offer the most appropriate advice and assistance.

Bahá’í in TV spot

Odessa Schafer, a Bahá’í from Euclid, Ohio, is featured in a Foster Grandparents television recruitment commercial.

She has been involved in the program, which focuses on providing loving personalized care for children in day care or institutional settings, for 10 years.

Taos, New Mexico, Bahá’ís sponsor third International Peace Day festival

An Aztec dancer thanks the Bahá’ís for the opportunity to be a part of the third annual International Peace Day ceremony in Taos, New Mexico.

Peace workers and musicians gathered under blue skies September 21 in the Taos Plaza for the third annual International Peace Day sponsored by the Bahá’í community of Taos, New Mexico.

The speakers were Chester Kahn, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly; Dave Fernandez, a local businessman and water rights activist; and Arte Sharfin from the Taos Nuclear Freeze Organization.

Mr. Fernandez spoke of the persecutions in Iran and urged his audience to support the work of the Bahá’ís in their efforts to promote international peace.

"Although science has benefited mankind," said Mr. Kahn, "without spiritual teachings (scientific advances) would lead only to destruction.

"It is important," he said, "to balance the spiritual and the material and to remember that the Great Spirit is in all things—the wind and the trees."

The event attracted performers and artists from the local area including the Aztec Dancers of Taos who presented several dramatic dances and poetess Tish Denim who read poetry inspired by a recent visit to South Dakota and the site of the "battle of Wounded Knee."

Master of ceremonies John McGimsey, a local Bahá’í, read the Universal House of Justice's peace statement, Bahá’ís were interviewed on the local FM radio station, and the Taos News carried an article and photo of the event.

Chester Kahn, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly, was the speaker September 13 at a dinner commemorating the International Year of Peace sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Houston, Texas. More than 80 of the 235 people attending were not Bahá’ís. Mr. Kahn, a Navajo Indian from Arizona, said it will take more than an end to the arms race or armed conflicts for real peace to be established; it will take a change in the hearts of people to recognize that humanity is one family with one Creator. (Photo by Shervin Hawley)

Spirit

Assembly and the Continental Counselors now invite you to join in a concerted effort to redeem this precious gift.

On October 20, the birth of the Báb, the Six Year Plan will be launched with a 189-day crusade of victories in the "Spirit of the Roses" that will continue until the final day of the National Convention in April. Each day will be dedicated to one of the precious "roses."

We ask your help in mounting a spiritual campaign of personal and community sacrifice to compensate for the services our beloved cohorts are prevented from rendering. During each of the 189 days, let every person ask himself, "Have I sacrificed for the National Bahá’í Fund today?" "Have I taught a soul the Cause of God today?" "Have I pursued every opportunity to serve humankind today?"

Each victory is important. Please send the stories and photos of your victories to the Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. They will become part of a priceless journal which will be forwarded to the Universal House of Justice to honor the prisoners in Iran, the "broken-winged birds of Bahá," as they refer to themselves. In essence, the "Spirit of the Roses" epitomizes a close and loving family assisting one another in a time of need. This is our chance to show the world what it means to be one global family.

With loving Bahá’í greetings, National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States October 17, 1986

Archives eyes state, district voting lists

The National Bahá’í Archives is seeking state and district voting lists used in State and District Conventions in 1952-67 for the states of Washington, South Carolina, Florida, Texas, Michigan, Ohio and Oregon. Anyone having lists they could donate is asked to contact the National Bahá’í Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

York Bahá’ís present statement to mayor, man rest stop at Fair

On September 3, two members of the Bahá’í Group of York, Pennsylvania, presented a copy of the peace statement to William Althaus, the mayor of that city.

Two days later, the Bahá’ís opened a rest stop at the York Fair (September 5-13) which gave some 300,000 people the opportunity to rest and learn about waging peace while strolling through the exhibition hall.

Nearly 600 "Wage Peace" posters were taken with emphasis on ways to accomplish that end.

A bake sale was held September 19-20 as part of a charity bazaar at a local shopping mall. Proceeds from the Bahá’í sales ($130) were given to Access York Inc., a shelter for women and children who are victims of abuse.

Later that month, a panel discussion on peace issues was held at a local community center, and half of those attending were not Bahá’ís.

Our great privilege

National Bahá’í Fund Wilmette, IL 60091 [Page 12]

Peace conference, conventions help Trust, Distribution Service set sales record in September

Sales for the Bahá’í Publishing Trust and Distribution Service reached a record level in September, thanks largely to higher sales in the 186 new electoral districts and sales at the International Peace Conference in San Francisco.

"When you achieve a sales record," says General Manager Terrill Hayes, "there is usually something unusual such as the peace conference which contributes to it. What was surprising to us was the increase in sales at District Conventions.

"It may be too early to draw any conclusions," he says, "but it would appear that the new, smaller districts are generating more activity and interest within the districts.

"Of course, the number of returned books we receive from District Conventions may temper our enthusiasm. We'll just have to wait and see.

"Another encouraging factor," says Mr. Hayes, "was that this sales record was set during a very positive period in our history. Our previous one-month record was set when the Trust was having a sale of some of its items to decrease the value of its inventory."

Contributing to the strong sales picture in September was the success of several new items from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust—The Power of Unity: Beyond Prejudice and Racism, the Stories from the Dawn-Breakers audio tape set, and the tapes Women, Equality and Peace and This Century of Progress.

Popular books from other publishers included Divine Therapy and Thoughts: Education for Peace from George Ronald; The Peace Bible from Kalimát Press; Throne of the Inner Temple from Jamaica; The Promise, Volumes I and II, from Canada; and the new Doug Cameron tape, Come On, Rise Up.

Serving Mankind

God, the True One, beareth Me witness, and every atom in existence is moved to testify that such means as lead to the elevation the advancement, the education, the protection and the regeneration of the peoples of the earth have been clearly set forth by Us and are revealed in the Holy Books and Tablets by the Pen of Glory.

—Bahá’u’lláh Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh

Kalimát publishes memoirs of Bahá’í who was first to visit India, Burma

A Year with the Bahá’ís of India and Burma is the latest publication from Kalimát Press.

A Year with the Bahá’ís of India and Burma is the memoirs of the first Western Bahá’í to go into that area. The author is Sidney Sprague, an American who became a Bahá’í while studying in Paris.

While he was on pilgrimage in 1904, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá suggested to Mr. Sprague that he go on to India. He arrived there later that year and stayed through most of 1905. During that time he also traveled in Burma and Malaya (now Malaysia).

The most moving episode in the book is the period when Mr. Sprague contracted typhoid fever and was nursed back to health by an Indian Bahá’í, Kai Khosroe. While nursing Mr. Sprague during an epidemic in the area, Mr. Khosroe contracted the disease himself and eventually died.

Mr. Sprague's account of his year on the Indian sub-continent was published originally in 1908, and Kalimát's edition is a facsimile reprint, which includes a photograph from Mr. Sprague's journey.

A Year with the Bahá’ís of India and Burma is $8.95 in hardcover only.

Distribution Service best-sellers for 1st half of B.E. 143

1. Peace: More Than an End to War, SC 2. "The Promise of World Peace"—Presentation Edition 3. The Divine Art of Living 4. The Power of Unity 5. "The Promise of World Peace"—Deluxe Edition 6. Women—Compilation 7. Stories from the Dawn-Breakers, CS 8. Divine Therapy 9. Peace: More Than an End to War, HC 10. "The Promise of World Peace"—Study Edition 11. Thoughts: Education for Peace, SC 12. O God, Guide Me!, SC 13. The Bahá’í Faith: The Emerging Global Religion 14. Bahá’í Prayers, HC 15. The Peace Bible 16. Bahá’í Prayers, SC 17. All Flags Flying 18. Throne of the Inner Temple 19. Unrestrained as the Wind 20. Peace pamphlets—100 assorted 21. Unity: Creative Foundation of Peace 22. Thoughts: Education for Peace, HC 23. Consultation 24. The Bahá’í Faith in America: 1892-1900 25. The Bahá’í Faith—Perkins and Hainsworth

Calendars from Hawaii, Taiwan again available

The Bahá’í History Calendar produced in Hawaii and the wood and silk scroll calendars produced in Taiwan will again be offered by the Distribution Service for the coming Gregorian and Bahá’í year.

For 1987, the theme of the Bahá’í History Calendar is "Serving Mankind," and its photographs and quotations are on the message from the Universal House of Justice on social and economic development.

The cover photograph, as with the Trust's Wall Calendar, features the House of Worship which will be dedicated this month in New Delhi, India. All photographs for the calendar are in full color.

The Bahá’í History Calendar will again be priced at $5.50 and should be available for sale in Wilmette by mid- to late-December.

Also expected to be available late this month are the scroll calendars from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust of Taiwan. They will be in silk or wood.

The silk calendar has a color drawing of a Chinese mountain scene, and the wood calendar features a color drawing of a Chinese bamboo forest. Each sells for $4.25.

Publication on Huqúqu’lláh should be ready this month

The long-delayed compilation on the Huqúqu’lláh should finally be delivered to the Distribution Service in late December.

"This project is a co-publication with Bahá’í Publications Canada," says Marketing Manager Robert Blum, "and has been delayed by a number of unfortunate problems.

"The primary delay resulted from the intention to publish an introduction to The Huqúqu’lláh Compilation. It was ultimately decided to use the material prepared for the introduction in another form to be published at a later date.

"We have imported some copies of The Huqúqu’lláh Compilation from England to meet the pressing demand for this title," Mr. Blum says. "At $1.50, the edition printed in Canada will be a little less expensive and will be available in greater quantity."

The Huqúqu’lláh Compilation contains 60 extracts from the writings of Bahá’u’lláh on "The Right of God"; 18 from the talks and writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá; and another 34 from Shoghi Effendi, letters written on his behalf, and the Universal House of Justice.

Distribution Service's top 25 accounts for first half of year

1. Green Acre School, Maine 2. Los Angeles, California 3. Houston, Texas 4. Louhelen School, Michigan 5. Green Lake Conference, Wisconsin 6. Clackamas County Northwest, Oregon 7. Pasadena, California 8. New York, New York 9. Seattle, Washington 10. Cleveland, Ohio 11. Massanetta Springs Conference, Virginia 12. Bosch School, California 13. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 14. Riverside, California 15. Grand Junction, Colorado 16. Dallas, Texas 17. Washington, D.C. 18. Cedar Rapids, Iowa 19. Sheltering Branch School, Washington 20. Wilhelm School, New Jersey 21. Alabama Schools Committee 22. San Diego, California 23. Ashland, Oregon 24. Xenia, Ohio 25. Indianapolis, Indiana

Horace Holley Quote

"The Sacred Literature of the Bahá’í Faith conveys enlightenment. It inspires life. It frees the mind. It disciplines the heart. For believers, the Word is not a philosophy to be learned, but the sustenance of being throughout the span of mortal existence."

—Horace Holley Religion for Mankind, p. 64

ORDER FORM

Bahá’í Distribution Service 415 LINDEN AVENUE WILMETTE, IL 60091

Prices good through January 31, 1987

Peace: More Than an End to War, SC $2.25 Bahá’í Datebook 144 B.E., CA $5.50 Bahá’í History Calendar 1987, CA $5.50 Bahá’í Pocket Calendar 144 B.E., CA 10/2.00 Bahá’í Wall Calendar 144 B.E, CA $1.25 The Divine Art of Living, SC $7.95 The Power of Unity, SC $7.95 Scroll Calendar—Silk, 144 B.E., CA $4.25 Scroll Calendar—Wood, 144 B.E., CA $4.25 Stories from the Dawn-Breakers, CS $24.00 This Century of Progress, CS $7.00 Do-It-Yourself Sticker Kit, CA $2.50 Unrestrained as the Wind, SC $7.95 The Huqúqu’lláh Compilation, SC $1.50 The Light of Bahá’u’lláh, SC $3.00 Way Out of the Dead End, HC $10.95 Way Out of the Dead End, SC $6.95 The Open Door, PA 10/8.50 Women: Equality and Peace, CS $7.00 Peace: More Than an End to War, HC $16.00 A Year with Bahá’ís of India and Burma, HC $8.95

Credit card orders ($10.00 minimum) are accepted by phone: 800-323-1880 (outside Illinois), or 312-251-1854 (within Illinois). [Page 13]

The Six Year Plan

To be instrumental in social change and to be able to give the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh to others, we must seize opportunities to involve ourselves in the life of society. At times, we Bahá’ís are so caught up in the affairs of our own Bahá’í communities that we forget to be good neighbors to those around us or to participate in events and organizations that will extend our circle of friendships.

A greater involvement in the life of human society

Asking ourselves how we might best use our free time to join an interest group, take a class, develop a friendship, or share (directly or indirectly) aspects of the Bahá’í teachings with an organization will help us find avenues that we have not yet tapped to offer the teachings, to balance our own lives, and to serve humanity in our own unique ways.

The following books can help us enlarge the scope of our own involvement with society.

A compilation of the Bahá’í writings that helps us to place all aspects of life within the context of service to Bahá’u’lláh. A chapter on social relationships discusses our relationship to government and politics, non-Bahá’í religious and other organizations, social movements, social and economic development, and the growth of Bahá’í communities. SC $7.95.

Aute Dedicated to Banauan unrestrained as the wind

A compilation of the Bahá’í writings that helps us to see the need for developing relationships with members of all races and eradicating any lingering prejudices that may exist within us. Stresses the need for Bahá’ís to eliminate prejudice and disunity, bridge cultural gaps, appreciate diversity, teach minority groups, and associate with humanitarian organizations. SC $7.95.

The Divine Art of Living

A compilation of the Bahá’í writings that emphasizes the universal aspects of the teachings. Describes the various components of the spiritual life of the individual, the family and the community, and urges us to help renew society. Two new chapters, new translations and passages from the writings, and a new organization update this old favorite. Ideal for seekers. SC $7.95.

The Power of Unity Beyond Prejudice and Racism

How to order

To order any titles listed on this page, individuals living anywhere in the world should see the Bahá’í Distribution Service coupon in this issue.

Bahá’í institutions outside the contiguous 48 states should order directly from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091.

DON'T FORGET to order your calendars for 1987-88/144 B.E.!

Readers respond warmly to new compilations on peace, race unity from Publishing Trust

The Bahá’í Publishing Trust has received a number of responses to recently published books. The following are among them:

I would like to thank all those involved in compiling the book Peace: More Than an End to War for their incredible work and wonderful inspiration. Of course, I understand that the words are not theirs, and that really I am thankful to have been enabled to recognize this overwhelming Revelation, but I must compliment you on this compilation, which I know will make my life easier. It is so well-researched and so well-compiled, indexed, footnoted. The subtitling of the sections is also wonderful. All in all, I find it a remarkable compilation, and I just wanted to let you know how much I love it.

Kathy Suarez-Penn Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

On The Power of Unity: Beyond Prejudice and Racism:

An elegant, striking compilation that reminds us anew of the extensive guidance given by the Bahá’í writings on the steps that must be taken to promote world unity and peace.

Dr. June Thomas Auxiliary Board member

The Power of Unity is a significant and welcome compilation whose guidance will empower us to "move the world" by removing the barriers that presently divide human society.

Jeff Kiely, administrator Native American Bahá’í Institute

An excellent tool for helping to assimilate the Persian believers into the mainstream of American Bahá’í community life.

Dr. Manouchehr Derakhshani, director Persian/American Affairs Committee

The most comprehensive collection of relevant statements concerning unity in diversity from the Central Figures of our Faith ever published.

Dr. Fuad Ziai, professor University of Illinois

Peace: More Than an End to War is available in hardcover at $16 and in softcover at $8.95. The Power of Unity: Beyond Prejudice and Racism is available in softcover only at $7.95.

Open Door, ‘Light of Bahá’u’lláh’ newly reprinted

Two new items have recently been reprinted by the Bahá’í Publishing Trust and are now available through the Bahá’í Distribution Service.

The Open Door, a booklet on life after death containing quotations from Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, offers consolation and understanding to those who have lost loved ones.

Printed in black ink on rich cream stock and highlighted with yellow, the booklet comes with a matching envelope designed for gift presentations and for mailing. The price is $8.50 for a package of 10.

The Light of Bahá’u’lláh, an introduction to the Faith that features chapters on Bahá’í history, Bahá’u’lláh, spiritual teachings, social teachings, Bahá’í laws and administration, the local Spiritual Assembly, Bahá’í community life, and progressive revelation.

Also included are drawings that illustrate many of the teachings. The new edition has a bright, more durable cover than the earlier one. This book is especially effective in mass-teaching areas. Its price is $3.

To order either of these new reprints, please see the ordering information on the coupon on the adjoining page.

3 calendars, sticker kit ready

Three new calendars and a new sticker kit are now available from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust. They include:

Bahá’í Wall Calendar 144 B.E., a 13-month calendar beginning in March 1987, featuring a full-color photograph of the Bahá’í House of Worship in India, an explanation of Bahá’í Holy Days and special event days, and a description of the Lotus of Bahapur on the reverse side. $1.25. (See photo at right.)

Bahá’í Pocket Calendar 144 B.E., a 12-month calendar beginning in March 1987, with a listing of Bahá’í Holy Days and special event days on the reverse side. Printed in grey. Available only in packages of 10. $2.

Bahá’í Datebook 144 B.E., a 13-month datebook that returns in the format of the 1979 edition, with one Gregorian month per double-page spread. Begins with March 1987 and ends with March 1988. $2.25.

And for the first time ever: "Do-it-yourself" Bahá’í Calendar Kit, a package of stickers that can be used on any wall calendar, datebook, or desk calendar to make it your own Bahá’í calendar. Includes stickers for Bahá’í Holy Days, Feasts, special event days, Spiritual Assembly meetings, firesides, deepenings, the Fast, Ayyám-i-Há, school and convention dates, potlucks, dawn prayers, and some blank stickers for personal days to remember. Can be used for any year and can be ordered anytime during the year. More than 200 stickers. $2.50.

The Lotus Of Bahapur 144 BE Bahá’í Calendar

The Bahá’í Wall Calendar for B.E. 144. [Page 14]

Mr. Khadem’s address to Peace Conference

The following is a transcript of an address by the Hand of the Cause of God Zikrullah Khadem to the Bahá’í International Peace Conference in San Francisco. Mr. Khadem was too ill to attend the conference, and the message was read instead by his wife, Auxiliary Board member Javidukht Khadem, on Saturday, August 30.

Beloved friends, Alláh’u’Abhá! With my poor health and my back problem, I don’t know whether I’ll be able to attend this conference. If not, I have asked my dear wife, who has been so kind to me, to read this message on my behalf if I am unable to present myself. I have asked her to convey my loving greetings to you all at this glorious, historic first International Peace Conference. You cannot imagine how close, how very close you all are to my heart and how very much I love you all. My dear friends, although I shall not be able to be with you in person, you are in my thoughts and prayers. May Bahá’u’lláh continually surround you with all His bountiful blessings.

I wish to start my talk with the beautiful quotation that Bahá’u’lláh confirms in His Writings, "Lord, increase My astonishment in Thee!" What a glory to be a part of this historic conference, the first Bahá’í International Peace Conference.

This conference is convened through the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States, the governing body of the Bahá’ís of this country, under the tutelage of the Supreme Body of the Faith, the Universal House of Justice.

In the conference brochure, in the best way possible, they have explained the purpose of the conference on the front page by quoting from the statement on peace from the Universal House of Justice. I will read a part of it and leave the rest to be studied:

"To the Peoples of the World:

"The Great Peace towards which people of good will throughout the centuries have inclined their hearts, of which seers and poets for countless generations have expressed their vision, and for which from age to age the sacred scriptures of mankind have constantly held the promise, is now at long last within the reach of the nations.

"For the first time in history it is possible for every one to view the entire planet, with all its myriad diversified peoples, in one perspective. World peace is not only possible, but inevitable...."

So with this beautiful quotation the conference started. I feel very happy that I am a part of it. What else can I add to these beautiful statements, the Program of Peace for the world?

The very purpose of God, according to the Sacred Writings, was to create man to know Him and to worship Him, which means we must live together in great love and harmony. It has been predicted that in this universe, one day the whole of mankind would become one family.

I very much like that beautiful verse of Persian poetry, which I’ll say in the original language, "Abr o bad o mah o khorshid o falak dar karand ta toh nani beh kaf ari o beh gheflat nakhori," which means that "the clouds, wind, moon, sun and heaven are working together in order that man may earn his livelihood and not be ignorant, and mankind may live together in perfect harmony."

This was the purpose of God for man from the very beginning which has no beginning; man has always been looking forward to this Great Day. All the prophets have spoken about this and have suffered the greatest sufferings to prepare us for this Day, to educate us and bring about love and unity.

In the Bible we read the beautiful verse from Isaiah, whom the Guardian honored as "the greatest of the Israeli prophets": "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given. And the government shall be upon His shoulder and His name shall be called 'Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace.' Of the increase of His government and peace there shall be no end, upon the Throne of David, and upon His kingdom to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth forever. The zeal of the Lord of Hosts will perform this."

In that passage, as well as in all scriptures, it is promised that "the Prince of Peace will come" and bring the whole of mankind into one family. "The Prince of Peace," Jesus Christ in His second coming, has come to the world at the appointed time. Now. For everything there is a time.

The whole universe worked for that end. In 1844, the Revelation of the Báb brought this message of unity to mankind. The countries and territories of the world came close together. The first stirrings of His message, through the world’s first telegraphic communication, "What hath God wrought?" made it clear that "the earth is but one country and mankind its citizens."

Bahá’u’lláh addressed us, "O People of the World! The tabernacle of the unity of God has been pitched up, and is calling all mankind to this tent." The message of peace began in this Revelation in 1844 with the declaration of the Exalted Báb. By saying, "In My previous Manifestation," when referring to the Báb, Bahá’u’lláh makes it clear that world peace was the purpose of God from the inception of the Bahá’í Dispensation. He educated us and uplifted us in order to prepare us for this great promise of peace.

After many years of His Revelation, the time was ripe for Him to give this program to the world. He wrote to the rulers of mankind, exhorted them, and warned them that the only solution to all the problems of the world would be through the unity of mankind which would lay the foundation for the promised peace. However, they were deaf to His call.

Again, the Universal House of Justice sent extracts of these Tablets to all the leaders of the world and told them about the message of peace brought by Bahá’u’lláh. Still, the world was not ready.

Bahá’u’lláh was so very patient all His life. About two years before He passed on, one of the great orientalists, the well-known Professor Edward Browne, had an interview with Bahá’u’lláh, the only one of its kind by a Westerner. Professor Browne was granted four successive interviews with Bahá’u’lláh. In one of them, Bahá’u’lláh spoke about His message of peace:

"Praise be to God, that thou hast attained! ... Thou hast come to see a prisoner and an exile.... We desire but the good of the world and the happiness of the nations;... That all nations should become one in faith and all men as brothers; that the bonds of affection and unity between the sons of men should be strengthened; that diversity of religion should cease, and differences of race be annulled... what harm is there in this? Yet so it shall be: these fruitless strifes, these ruinous wars shall pass away, and the Most Great Peace shall come.... Do not you in Europe need this also? Is not this that which Christ foretold?... Yet do we see your kings and rulers lavishing their treasures more freely on means for the destruction of the human race than on that which would conduce to the happiness of mankind. ... These strifes and this bloodshed and discord must cease, and all men be as one kindred and one family.... Let not a man glory in this, that he loves his country; let him rather glory in this, that he loves his kind...."

The beloved Guardian of the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh, the interpreter of His Writings after ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, said in his writings that indeed, these interviews were "... immortalized by the Exile's historic declaration that 'these fruitless strifes, these ruinous wars shall pass away and the Most Great Peace shall come.'" This declaration was a momentous announcement to the West of God’s Plan for Peace. Edward Browne was blessed to receive and record it.

We know that, according to Jesus Christ, the Will of God will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Nothing will happen without the Will of God. Therefore, nothing can stop this process. All of nature, according to the Guardian, serves this purpose: to bring mankind together, to call the people to the Kingdom of God.

Text of Mr. Khadem’s last letter to the National Spiritual Assembly

To the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States

My Beloved Friends,

I wish to thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the kindnesses that you have shown, as representatives of the American Bahá’í community, to me over the past 26 years. I am deeply indebted to our beloved Guardian for having sent me to the West to witness the glorious victories of our beloved Faith. As I look back over the years, I can only humbly supplicate: "O Lord! Increase my astonishment in Thee!"

Please be assured of my deepest gratitude and love for each one of you and for the entire American Bahá’í community. I have been thinking of you and your heavy task in the years to come, especially these next crucial years of the Six Year Plan. I wish for you Bahá’u’lláh’s blessings and assistance in continually promoting the unity of the friends and rising to your high destiny. Beware of the enemies of the Cause! Be vigilant! Be watchful! Staunchly resist their influence!

May He continue to guide you to fulfill the glorious destiny of this wonderful community as foreseen by the beloved Master. May He protect you and surround you with His bounties and blessings.

Loving Bahá’í greetings, In the service of the beloved Guardian, Z. Khadem October 23, 1986

‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the Son of Bahá’u’lláh, made a visit to the West, particularly the United States. It took Him months to complete His travels. In all the churches, synagogues and intellectual centers, He promulgated the message of peace to the world. He gave talks, informed, inspired, and showered His matchless love on all who were blessed to meet Him.

He had a great love for the West, particularly America. Here in California, He said: "I hope that advocates of peace may daily increase... until the whole population shall stand for that beneficent outcome. May the men of affairs in this democracy uphold the standards of international conciliation, then may altruistic aims and thoughts radiate from this center toward all other regions of the earth, and may the glory of this accomplishment forever halo the history of this country. May the first flag of International Peace be upraised in this state." (The Promulgation of Universal Peace, pp. 376-77).

That was in October 1912, more than 70 years ago. In 1945, in San Francisco, the Charter of the United Nations was drawn up and proclaimed. Some 40 years ago, when the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was considered and approved by the United Nations, a conference was held, attended by international authorities, public figures, and well-wishers of mankind. The meeting began with prayers for peace. The first prayer which was said was a Bahá’í prayer, since the different religions were listed in alphabetical order. As "Bahá’í" was listed first, the first message was Bahá’u’lláh’ prayer for peace. Actually, that fulfilled the promise of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá: the first call for peace came from San Francisco and was led by the words of Bahá’u’lláh.

Following ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit to America in 1912, after the first World War, President Wilson went to Europe and presented his peace proposal with its 14 points. He called the nations to peace. Most supported him, but not, unfortunately, the leaders of America. President Wilson passed on in grief because his own countrymen could not appreciate his historic contribution. His role was a very important one and he deserves to be mentioned in this historic conference.

In His Writings, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá said that with this announcement of President Wilson’s, the Dawn of Peace broke upon the world. That was the Dawn of Peace before the sunrise.

Bahá’u’lláh’s message of peace, first announced to Edward Browne, was universally proclaimed by President Wilson. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá calls it "Fajr-i-Sulh-i-Azam darakhshid." That means: the Dawn of the Great Peace has broken. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá praises him for his efforts. According to the beloved Guardian, in God Passes By, written in 1944, this "Peace Program... stands out as the boldest and noblest proposal yet made for the well-being and security of mankind."

Unknowingly, from the creative spirit infused into the world by Bahá’u’lláh’s announcement, everyone and everything, all of nature, in fact, is serving to bring into being the Christ-promised Kingdom of God on earth. The rays of the Sun of Reality, the Prince of Peace, according to Jesus Christ, has been warming the hearts, educating man, and germinating the seeds to bring mankind to this great purpose.

This is the will of God, and nothing can change it.

The whole world cannot change it; rather, the whole world has no choice but to serve this end. Bahá’u’lláh left us the blueprint for His new World Order and left us ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to clarify it and the Guardian to bring it into being. He gave us a new World Order for all of mankind. He said, "the old world order is being rolled up and a new one laid out in its stead." The new order was spread at that time.

Of course, we as human beings could not appreciate or understand it, but it infused a new spirit into the world. It was irrigated by the suffering and blood of the martyrs, thousands of them, who [Page 15]are still giving their lives in the Cradle of the Faith in Persia, in order to bring into being this new Order for the world. It is their sacrifice that has brought this message out of obscurity.

This World Order of Bahá’u’lláh was given to us just two years before He passed on when His tabernacle was pitched up on Mount Carmel. The Tablet of Carmel was revealed in which Bahá’u’lláh emphasized that soon the Ark of God will sail and the Laws of God will flow to the whole world.

The Supreme Body of the Faith is, according to the Bahá’i Writings, "the source of all good and freed from all error." This means that God protects, inspires and guides them in their decisions as a body.

This body came into being in the Formative Age of the Faith after the passing of the beloved Shoghi Effendi. It continued the work that the Guardian had started, the strenuous labors that he shouldered alone, the labors that consumed all his energy and left him without a moment's rest throughout his life.

The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, that embryo that the Guardian nurtured, has matured and will come into fruition under the care of the Universal House of Justice. After the passing of the beloved Guardian, the Universal House of Justice directed the Bahá’is of the world, spread the healing message of Bahá’u’lláh, propagated the Faith according to the Tablets of the Divine Plan of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, and protected His Cause.

Bahá’u’lláh's message of peace has now spread to every land, to all countries, islands and territories. In the United States alone there are thousands of localities where Bahá’ís reside and more than 1,700 local Spiritual Assemblies.

So now we can see how the Will of God has been fulfilled. Bahá’u’lláh, the Prisoner of ‘Akká, the Manifestation of God for this Day, the Prince of Peace, alone and unaided, with the power of the Word of God as His only provision, has transformed the world and "has made all things new" according to the prophecies of the Bible.

From that first announcement, all of creation has served this purpose. His teachings of unity, the equality of men and women, the abolition of all prejudices, the unity of science and religion, universal compulsory education, and so forth have permeated the minds and hearts of all people to prepare the way for peace.

The Universal House of Justice reprinted excerpts from the Messages of Bahá’u’lláh and His Tablets to the rulers and leaders of mankind and sent copies to current leaders. Many responded positively, whereas when Bahá’u’lláh first addressed them more than 100 years ago, no one except Queen Victoria of England gave a favorable response. Over this past century, the spirit infused into the world by His teachings together with the ceaseless labors of His followers the world over have been at work to prepare the way for the Kingdom of God promised to us in all Holy Books.

The time is now ripe to reap the first fruits of peace. This year has been declared International Year of Peace for all mankind. It is in this year that that body, the Universal House of Justice, with the inspiration of the Almighty, formulated a statement on peace and addressed it "To the Peoples of the World."

This message, entitled "The Promise of World Peace," has been delivered to all the heads of state and leaders of thought as well as to the population at large.

Many have responded very favorably and appreciated the need for a united effort to bring about peace in the world. Among these I was our beloved President who has been very sympathetic to the tragic plight of the Bahá’ís in Iran and has voiced his support on a number of occasions.

This show of support by an American President was predicted by Bahá’u’lláh in His Most Holy Book, the Book of Aqdas. Many others, in Europe, in the House of Lords, in the House of Commons, in countries throughout the world I have voiced their support and appreciation. Many have studied the Bahá’í program for peace and have said this is the only solution to the problems of the world. Others have sought the advice and help of Bahá’í institutions in their own countries for help in their programs of social and economic development.

Many international aid organizations recognize the value of the Bahá’í approach and cooperate with Bahá’í institutions to implement educational and welfare projects.

The show of support throughout the world is too numerous to discuss in detail. I will give you just two examples.

I received a letter dated 21 July 1986 from the Bahá’í International Community addressed to some of the Bahá’ís and National Spiritual Assemblies. I quote: "On June 2, 1986, the Council of the City of Cambridge in Massachusetts unanimously passed a Resolution encouraging citizens to read and study the peace statement issued by the Universal House of Justice. The Resolution was adopted in response to the presentation of the statement to the Council, by the local Spiritual Assembly.... It not only warmly endorses the peace statement, but pays a generous tribute to the leadership of the Bahá’í community in a range of progressive concerns." What a victory!

I also want to share with you an excerpt from the following telex, dated 7 August 1986, from the Universal House of Justice:

"In humble acknowledgement Bahá’u’lláh's unabated confirmations, we inform friends everywhere private visit to Bahá’í World Center Prime Minister Cook Islands Sr. Thomas Davis and Lady Davis 3 and 4 August. Occasion made historic by Prime Minister's initiative in requesting consultation with Universal House of Justice regarding world peace.

"Visit also marked most concrete response to date by political leader to peace statement released to peoples world last October. During consultations which took place on first day in council chambers following Prime Minister's I visit Shrine Báb and on second day at Mansion Bahjí following his visit Shrine Bahá’u’lláh, Sir Thomas discussed his thoughts about world peace and his desire for practical action consonant with challenges and opportunities facing vast Pacific area....

"Once again action by leader from Pacific Ocean calls to our minds one of Bahá’u’lláh's most trenchant assertions concerning power His Cause: 'Should they attempt to conceal its light on the continent,' He wrote, 'it will assuredly rear its head in the midmost heart of the ocean, and, raising its voice, proclaim: I am the Lifegiver of the world!'"

In reference to Bahá’u’lláh's Tablet to the Kings, the beloved Guardian states, "Bahá’u’lláh... warns them that 'Divine chastisement' will 'assail' them 'from every direction,' if they refuse to heed His counsels, and prophesies His 'triumph upon earth' though no king be found who would turn his face towards Him."

The Guardian foresees that the kings and rulers of the world, out of desperation from their own impotence, will turn to the Universal House of Justice for counsel. Friends, this is a unique period in the history of mankind. How blessed we are to be able to witness these triumphs, these first, sweet, precious fruits of victory!

His Plan is unfolding. This conference is another historic step. Thanks to the Lord of the Age that we are alive and blessed to witness this event where we can partake of the first choice fruits of the labors, suffering, and sacrifice of the Author of this Faith, His Prophet-martyred Forerunner, and His twin interpreters, together with the sacrifices of His lovers all over the world whose efforts and

Mr. Khadem

weekend with members of the Continental Board of Counselors in the Americas and U.S. Auxiliary Board members, all were able to be present at the service to pay their respects to a man who was as deeply loved for his humility and self-effacement as he was greatly admired as a fearless and outspoken champion of the Cause of God.

The funeral service for Mr. Khadem, which was held in nearby Skokie, his home for the past several years, took place Saturday morning before the memorial gathering.

Mr. Khadem had enjoyed vigorous health until August, when it was found that he had a fatal illness. The illness soon confined him to bed, but he remained active, dictating letters and talks and sharing inspiring details of Bahá’í history distilled from his precise, scholarly memory.

Unable to attend the Bahá’í International Peace Conference held over the Labor Day weekend in San Francisco, he sent a message to the conference (see pages 14-15) that was read to the friends by Mrs. Khadem.

In October, Mr. Khadem addressed a letter to the National Spiritual Assembly (see page 14) in which he thanked its members "from the bottom of my heart for all the kindnesses that you have shown... to me over the past 26 years.

"I am deeply indebted to our beloved Guardian," he wrote, "for having sent me to the West to witness the glorious victories of our beloved Faith. As I look back over the years, I can only humbly supplicate: 'O Lord! Increase my astonishment in Thee!'"

Mr. Khadem was born into a distinguished Bahá’í family in Tehran in 1905. His surname, Khadem (in English, "one who serves") was bestowed upon his father, Mírzá Nasrollah, in a Tablet from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá that praised his services to the Cause of God.

Mr. Khadem served for several decades as a member of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Iran, and was appointed a Hand of the Cause of God by the Guardian in February 1952.

During the lifetime of the Guardian, Mr. Khadem was given many specific assignments to travel throughout the world, encourage the friends, promote and protect the Faith, and help carry out the global teaching plans.

For 17 years, he also received the communications from the Guardian for distribution to the friends in Iran. Other unique services included assisting the opening of the doors of pilgrimage for the Bahá’ís of Iran, and securing many artifacts of the Cause such as the famous sword of Mullá Husayn.

Pictured are some of the many people who came to pay their last respects to the Hand of the Cause of God Zikrullah Khadem as he was interred in Memorial Park in Skokie, Illinois, on November 15.

After the passing of the Guardian, Mr. Khadem volunteered to serve as a Hand of the Cause in the Western Hemisphere. He was thus able to fulfill the prediction the Guardian had made in 1940 that he would send Mr. Khadem "to the West to witness the glorious victories of our beloved Faith," as referred to by Mr. Khadem in his last letter to the National Spiritual Assembly.

He relocated to the West in 1960 and tirelessly pursued the successful completion of the Guardian's Ten Year Crusade, which was culminated in the election in 1963 of the Universal House of Justice.

Mr. Khadem's many services to the Supreme Body, like those to the Guardian, were characterized by instant, complete and exact obedience.

The House of Justice called upon Mr. Khadem to undertake an extremely important and delicate mission, documenting the details of occurrences in every place that was visited by Bahá’u’lláh, the Báb, and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Mr. Khadem, always precise in writing or speaking of details of the Cause, painstakingly compiled that information.

Mr. Khadem's talks were inspirational, suffused with contagious love for the Guardian. He was a scholar of the Old Testament and was learned in recent and ancient religious history.

Mr. Khadem also wrote books and articles about the Faith in both English and Persian.

Professionally, he was associated for many years with the Anglo-Persian Oil Company as chief interpreter and director of the Educational Department. Later, he became secretary of the Iraqi Embassy in Tehran, and meanwhile was a successful businessman and entrepreneur who was fluent in Persian, Arabic, English and French.

Mr. Khadem's death reduces to eight the number of the living Hands of the Cause of God.

Besides his wife, Mr. Khadem is survived by one brother, one sister, five children and 14 grandchildren, all whom are Bahá’ís.

The Khadem family has received many cables and messages of condolence and love from all over the world. The family requests that those who are moved to do so, remember Mr. Khadem with a gift to the World Center. [Page 16]

CLASSIFIEDS

Classified notices in The American Bahá’í are published free of charge as a service to the Bahá’í community. Because of this, 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; the friends should exercise their own judgment in responding to them.

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EMPLOYMENT

THE BAHÁ’Í World Center has an urgent need for qualified individuals to fill the following positions: draftsman-designer to preserve, restore and modify existing buildings. Work includes inspection, on-site investigation, testing, research, design and detail drafting. General knowledge of building trades and drafting experience required; knowledge of or experience with surveying and restoration techniques helpful but not essential. Should be able to work independently and have at least five years' drawing office experience in design capacity. Civil-design background preferred but mechanical or electrical in civil works acceptable. Craftsman/restorer to survey Holy Places and assess craft work necessary to conserve historical building finishes, furnishings and ornaments; to classify historic materials and finishes; to prepare work standards and procedures and ensure documentation. Familiarity with working in various types of wood, metals, ceramics, glass, etc. is highly desirable, as well as experience in supervising such work. Persian secretary to type the Sacred Text into a computer. Must be fluent in Persian and familiar with the Writings of the Faith. Excellent typing skills required; must be mature and hard-working. Also, there continues to be a need for individuals who are able to serve as garden helpers and security staff. Those who wish to consider service at the World Center should contact immediately the Department of Human Resources, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039 for an application or further information.

THE DEPARTMENT of Human Resources at the Bahá’í National Center is seeking a qualified person to serve as department secretary in the Office of the Secretary. This person is responsible for typing correspondence, composing letters, transcribing dictation, maintaining office supplies and performing other tasks as needed. Requires two to three years of office experience, strong typing skills (55+ wpm), good communication skills and the ability to handle a large volume of detailed work quickly; knowledge of a Xerox 850 word processor is helpful. For more information or an application, please contact Karen Crenshaw, Department of Human Resources, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

URGENT: Seeking young men to work in the gardens at the World Center in Haifa, Israel. Requirements: male, can pay own round trip air fare to and from Haifa, can serve a minimum of one year, able to leave soon. For more details, please phone Karen Pritchard, Youth Year of Service coordinator, 305-791-1844.

THE NATIONAL Spiritual Assembly's Office of External Affairs is seeking help in both its Wilmette and New Haven offices. The Office of External Affairs is responsible for contact with the U.S. government, national media, national organizations and prominent individuals. Needed are: secretary (Wilmette). Handles telephone inquiries, opens and sorts mail, types correspondence, maintains public information network mailing lists, processes orders for a-v and special materials, analyzes news clippings. Position requires a flexible individual with previous experience in a fast-paced office environment. Good organizational skills, typing of 50-60 wpm, and a pleasant telephone manner are essential. Word processing skills are desirable. Secretary (New Haven office). Acts as receptionist, types correspondence, and maintains files in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment. Previous office experience, good telephone manner, and typing skills of 60 wpm are necessary. Word processing experience is desirable. Those who would like to apply for either of these positions should write directly to the Office of External Affairs, New Haven, CT 06510.

FUND Education Coordinator is sought by the National Office of the Treasurer. An excellent opportunity to serve the Faith in Wilmette. The coordinator helps administer a nationwide program designed to strengthen the institution of the Bahá’í Fund by overseeing the National Treasurer's Representative program and by responding to inquiries about the Fund from the field. Requires a liberal arts background with strong written and oral communications skills as well as familiarity with the Bahá’í Writings and an ability to relate the Writings to the world around us. Other skills include flexibility, a sense of humor, and self-motivation. For more information or an application, contact Karen Crenshaw, Department of Human Resources, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

THREE positions are open in a pediatrician's office in Greenville, North Carolina: physical therapist (strong background in pediatric physical therapy a must with NDT certification desirable but not required); occupational therapist (strong background in pediatric occupational therapy a must with NDT and/or SI certification desirable); and speech therapist (strong background in pediatric services essential with NDT certification desirable but not essential). Management and staff positions available. Live in the goal communities of Greenville, Rocky Mount, Wilson or Goldsboro. Contact Mike Hillis, Stantonsburg, NC 27883, or phone 919-238-3336.

THE NATIONAL Center is accepting applications for a general maintenance position at the Green Acre Bahá’í School. Responsibilities include full-time general maintenance of grounds, buildings and equipment, troubleshooting and record-keeping. Applicants should have good working knowledge of electrical, plumbing and mechanical systems. Specific skills with professional training, especially in carpentry, are helpful. Ability to work independently or under close supervision with excellent organizational skills is essential. A minimum of two to three years' experience is required; hands-on experience in apartment complex, hotel, public school or institutional maintenance is desirable. For more information or an application, please contact the Department of Human Resources, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312-869-9039).

THE BAHÁ’Í Publishing Trust and Distribution Service is looking for a receptionist/customer service representative for immediate hire. Besides acting as receptionist, his/her duties include entering orders on a computer, helping customers, telemarketing, and some clerical work. A responsible position with salary commensurate with duties. Please contact the Department of Human Resources, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312-869-9039).

THE DEPARTMENT of Human Resources at the Bahá’í National Center is looking for a qualified, energetic and enthusiastic individual to serve as assistant to the general editor at the Bahá’í Publishing Trust. This individual is responsible for filing copyrights and renewals, handling rights and permissions correspondence, helping to prepare manuscripts for typesetting, and performing various secretarial duties. Strong organizational skills, typing of at least 60 wpm with dictaphone and some word processing experience are necessary. Please contact Karen Crenshaw, Department of Human Resources, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, as soon as possible for further information and an application, or phone her at 312-869-9039.

SUMMER positions: an exciting summer of service awaits you at the Louhelen Bahá’í School! Louhelen is seeking a program director, assistant registrar, children's class director, librarian, grounds assistant, food service worker, and housekeeper. Positions are for July and August. Room, board and a weekly stipend are included. For information and application, write to the Louhelen Bahá’í School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423.

LOOKING for ways to serve the Faith next summer? We are seeking hard-working, energetic individuals to serve in a variety of positions, specifically as a masonry worker and drafting aide in the Properties department at the Bahá’í National Center. The masonry worker should be able to perform caulking, tuck-pointing, and concrete joint cutting using the appropriate power equipment. Six to 12 months experience in masonry repair is desired. The drafting aide will check existing conditions and update as-built drawings of buildings and sites, prepare sketches for new projects, and perform other tasks of a technical or clerical nature. Good drawing skills, a high degree of accuracy and thoroughness, and good organizational skills are required. Previous work experience in drafting, construction or building maintenance is desired. These positions will begin about June 1, 1987, and end August 15, although those dates will remain fairly flexible depending upon candidates' availability. Both positions are salaried. Those who are interested should contact the Department of Human Resources, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039 for an application or further information.

PIONEERING (HOMEFRONT)

THERE IS a ready-made homefront pioneering opportunity for a Bahá’í couple in Wells, Nevada, where there are presently no Bahá’ís. A residence manager is needed for the 24-unit Best Western Motel in Wells. Salary is $800-$1,000 a month plus room and electricity, rising to $2,000 after one year, plus other benefits. Perfect for a retired couple or a husband and wife who want to get away from the crowded cities. Managers must speak English and be able to do routine building maintenance. If interested, please phone Mr. Taleb-Reza, 801-487-5080.

INTERESTED in movie-making? A new motion picture company has been producing major films during the past two years in the Wilmington, North Carolina, area. Good employment opportunities. The need for homefront pioneers is great. Contact: District Teaching Committee of North Carolina Central, c/o Sam Williams, P.O. Box 971, Yadkinville, NC 27055 (phone 919-679-2133).

HELP form an Assembly in the lovely city of Altamonte Springs, a rapidly growing community in central Florida with many employment and residential opportunities. For information, write to Altamonte Springs, FL 32701, or phone Pearl Fleischhacker, 305-260-9073.

JEOPARDIZED Assembly in the rural Illinois Valley near Cave Junction in southwestern Oregon needs two Bahá’ís to save the Assembly. Josephine County has been named one of the country's 100 best (out of 3,092 in the U.S.) in which to live, but it is a depressed timber industry area; someone who is self-employed or has an independent income is preferable. Housing and schools available; lovely mountain/valley environment healthful for raising a family. Please write to the Spiritual Assembly of Illinois Valley, P.O. Box 973, Cave Junction, OR 97523, or phone 503-592-2863.

HOMEFRONT pioneering opportunity near Greencastle, Indiana. We are going to Malaysia for a year and need a house-sitter. Requirements: (a) must be good with animals, (b) pay utilities (no rent), (c) supply references, (d) make $300 damage deposit, (e) make a one-year commitment (January-December 1987). Near DePauw University; many seeds have been planted in the area. Please call as soon as possible, 317-653-9600.

PIONEERING (OVERSEAS)

BOLIVIA is seeking a program director for a new primary health care program with emphasis on child health. The position is in La Paz with three project sites in remote areas of the Andes mountains. Applicants should have a master's degree in public health or a related discipline and be fluent in Spanish. For more information, contact the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312-869-9039).

SOUTH KOREA needs a mechanical engineer for supervisory assignment in Seoul. Applicants should have 10 years' experience in design of mechanical systems in light industrial and residential facilities, with emphasis on HVAC. U.S. citizenship required. For more information about this position, write to the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

MONITORING and evaluation officers are needed in Nigeria to report on World Bank-assisted agricultural development projects. Duties include the design, coordination and management of information systems; designing surveys; and interpretation, analysis and reporting of agricultural production, farm management practices, extension services, on-farm research and socio-economic changes in project areas. Applicants should have an advanced degree in agricultural economics, project experience in developing countries, and at least five years' professional experience. For more details, please contact the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

TRUK, a U.S. Trust Territory island in the South Pacific, is seeking an English instructor for its Center for Continuing Education. The position requires a master's degree in English or TESL plus certification and experience teaching the subject. Truk is a goal of the Seven Year Plan and still needs a pioneer to settle there. If you are qualified for this position, please contact the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312-869-9039).

THAILAND needs a nutritionist for a hospital in Surin. Responsible for the hospital feeding program; monitoring all aspects of food ordering, preparation, distribution and sanitation; keeping accurate statistics of daily beneficiaries, special diets and commodities used; training Khmer workers in basic nutrition concepts. Applicants should have a bachelor's degree in nutrition, a minimum of one year's experience, a strong background in community nutrition, and be fluent in English. For more information, contact the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

OPPORTUNITY for university professors to spend a year in Malaysia teaching the same subjects they teach here in the U.S. The University of Indiana is administering a program for MUCIA, a consortium of Big Ten universities, which will offer excellent pay and benefits for teaching a year in Malaysia. The program is also open to other universities. If you are interested in knowing more about this opportunity, write to the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

ACADEMIC director is needed for a TESL program in the Dominican Republic. Requires a minimum of a bachelor's degree in English or TESL, conversational fluency in Spanish, and the ability to develop curricula for children, adolescents and adults. [Page 17]

CLASSIFIEDS

Write to the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

A TRAINING officer is needed in Nigeria for manpower development and monitoring and evaluation of training in agriculture. Applicants should have an advanced degree in agricultural economics, experience in projects in developing countries, and at least five years' professional experience. For more information, write to the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

WANTED

THE BOOK Sales Committee for Yap Island in the Western Carolines desperately needs a copy of a Bahá’í Glossary. We need 2-3 copies, and at least one. Since this appears to be out of print, the committee would like to purchase old ones or pay for copies. They are greatly needed in our efforts to translate the Holy Writings into Yapese for many Bahá’ís who otherwise have only the short obligatory prayer. If you can help, please write to Lynda Norton, P.O. Box 607, Colonia, Yap, FSM, WCI 96943, or to Chodad, Box 304, Colonia, Yap, FSM, WCI 96943.

WANTED: deepened Bahá’í to volunteer one or two years service for a social and economic development project in a small native village in southeastern Alaska. Subsistence pay only. Some training preferred in working with youth or counseling substance abusers. Must like salmon, halibut and fresh berries. Bahá’í references required. Contact the Extension Teaching Committee, Spiritual Assembly of Mendenhall Valley, P.O. Box 2394, Juneau, AK 99803.

WANTED: Annual reports by the National Spiritual Assembly and national committees for the years 1969-72. Anyone having reports they could donate should send them to the National Bahá’í Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

HELP wanted: The Bahá’í Group of Garner, North Carolina, needs experienced, deepened, self-supporting homefront pioneers to help raise and maintain the first Spiritual Assembly in Garner and to deepen our many mass-taught believers. Garner offers the pace of a small town with the convenience and opportunities of a big city (Raleigh, the state capital, is only 15 minutes away). Three major universities are within 45 minutes, and the nationally known Research Triangle is about 40 minutes away. There are good schools and a relatively low cost of living. For more information, write to Warren Rochelle, Garner, NC 27529, or phone 919-772-1340 or 919-779-1541.

INFORMATION is wanted about any successful Bahá’í-founded elementary schools. The Greater Raleigh (North Carolina) Children's Education Committee wants to know all it can about such ventures, successful or not: planning, finances, curriculum, teachers, buildings, steps to take and in what order, state laws, how you got started, etc. Please write and tell us about what you did. The address is: Greater Raleigh Area Children's Education Committee, c/o Warren G. Rochelle, Garner, NC 27529.

THEATRE of the Los Angeles Bahá’í Center is in the process of forming and planning its initial goals. Would like submissions of one- or two-act comedies or dramas as well as children's plays. All plays will be read, kept on file or returned. (Please include self-addressed, stamped envelope.) Especially interested in plays that (1) deal directly with Bahá’í themes such as "the Most Challenging Issue," the Persian/American integration problem, Bahá’í history, etc., or (2) have a Bahá’í theme but do not make direct reference to the Faith. Send scripts, synopses, or inquiries to Steve Boergadine, Theatre of the Los Angeles Bahá’í Center, Los Angeles, CA 90016. Please include your phone number.

WANTED: couple to help manage a Bahá’í-owned building in Anacortes, Washington, the former site of the United World College. Entails taking rents plus general cleaning and overseeing. Mature, outgoing persons with some skills in minor repair work are needed. It is possible that some joint venture in a health food store in the building could be worked out. The community of 9,000 is on an island (bridge to the mainland) in the vacation land of northwest Washington State, not far from the Canadian border. There is an active 14-member Bahá’í community. For details, write to Jack Papritz, Anacortes, WA 98221, or phone 206-293-4551 or 206-293-3701 (evenings and weekends).

WANTED: original Tablets from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to the following individuals with approximate date of Tablet: Maud Gaudreaux, Yonkers, NY (1919), Oscar Hanko, Newark, NJ (1919), Frances Mitchell, Chicago (1919), Maria Rebecca Robertson, New York (1919), William F. Kyle, Red Wing, MN (1919), Viola Kluge, Chicago (1919), Sarah Van Winkle, Boston (1919), Mary Hall, Chicago (1919), Ruth Klos, Atchison, KS (1919), and Amy Williams, Cleveland, OH (1919). Anyone having information about the possible location of any of these Tablets is asked to contact the National Bahá’í Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

COLLEGE applicants or transfer students considering Swarthmore College are needed to help keep Bahá’í activities alive on campus. No college club exists, but contacts with non-Bahá’ís are strong. Please contact Kristin Johnsen, Swarthmore, PA 19081.

WANTED: woman to help strengthen jeopardized Assembly and assist homefront pioneer. Job 'opportunity; need typing skills, some bookkeeping, driver's license. For details, phone Evelyn Hardin, Meridian, MS at 601-483-0209.

INFORMATION wanted: The Center for Interracial Unity, sponsored by the Louhelen Bahá’í School, is asking the friends to send any material (newspaper clippings, etc.) that they may feel would be beneficial for our files. We need articles and information about interracial families, education, and employment. Please send information to the Center for Interracial Unity, c/o Joan E. Williams, secretary, Kalamazoo, MI 49007.

DISTRIBUTORS: individuals, Groups or Assemblies are sought to serve as distributors of the "Mankind Is One" sweatshirts and T-shirts. Distributors will receive compensation. Write to Reflections, Louhelen Bahá’í School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423.

WANTED: Information on the trial and imprisonment of members of the local Spiritual Assembly of Yazd, Iran, which took place on two occasions, first around 1937 and then around 1951. Please send to Saeed Hedayati, Shreveport, LA 71109.

AVAILABLE

HANDS ON!, a workbook of Bahá’í educational activities for children by Sandy and Alonzo Coleman and Diane Bogolub Petit is available from the Louhelen Bahá’í School. Included are more than 100 practical activities, 178 pages, 80 photos of activities described in the text along with sample record-keeping forms and reproducible activities. The cost, including a three-ring binder, shipping and handling, is $19 (for U.S. orders only). Phone orders using VISA or MasterCard accepted. Write to the Louhelen Bahá’í School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423, or phone 313-653-5033.

"REFLECTIONS" catalog listing "Mankind Is One" sweatshirts and T-shirts, tapes, books and other Bahá’í-related materials is available at no cost from the Louhelen Bahá’í School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423 (phone 313-653-5033).

A COURSE on "Bahá’í Development: The Practical Processes of Transforming Mankind," by Holly Vick, Bahá’í World Center, is available on audio tape. The course examines the Bahá’í concept of development, compares it to other models, places it in the context of the Faith's emergence from obscurity, and explores its prospects for instigating an organic change in human society as a means of building the Bahá’í world commonwealth. Four tapes, $24. Write to Reflections, Louhelen Bahá’í School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423, or phone 313-653-5033, VISA or MasterCard accepted.

RESIDENT teacher available in June '87 for full-time Bahá’í service project and/or teaching and consolidation work. Mature believer and jack-of-all-trades able to serve without pay for three months to one year depending on housing costs. Please send your Assembly's project description, job requirements, and a large SASE for my Bahá’í and professional resumés and references. Bill Bright, Chinle, AZ 86503. Phone 602-674-5685 after 5 p.m. MST.

FOUR-LESSON correspondence course on the Bahá’í Faith. Each lesson, complete on single 8 1/2 by 11-inch sheet, is written in clear, easy-to-understand English. The material covers (1) the unity of God, mankind and religions; (2) Bahá’u’lláh’s life and teachings; (3) deeds-laws, personal conduct; and (4) the Bahá’í community including the Covenant, administrative order, and becoming a Bahá’í. The four lessons, plus a "One Planet, One People... Please" poster, are available for only 35 cents. For shipping and handling, please add $2 (1-9 courses); $4 (10-99), or 4 cents each (more than 100). Order from the Los Angeles Bahá’í Bookshop, 5755 Rodeo Road, Los Angeles, CA 90016, or phone 213-933-8291.

CONFERENCE catalog of winter and spring conferences at the Louhelen Bahá’í School is available from the registrar, Louhelen Bahá’í School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423.

A COURSE on "The Forces of Light and Darkness" by Counselor Hooper Dunbar is available on audio cassette. The course examines the origin and operation of these forces, the power of the Creative Word, the interaction of spirit and matter, and presents an analysis of the forces of darkness and of the diffusion of the forces of light. The impact of these forces on the individual and society is discussed, as are the Major and Minor Plans of God, the twin processes of integration and disintegration, the purging of one's character, and becoming incarnate light. Four tapes, $24. Write to Reflections, Louhelen Bahá’í School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48432, or phone 313-653-5033. VISA or MasterCard accepted.

IMAGES International has more than 200 cassette tapes of recorded talks by such illumined and dedicated Bahá’ís as the Hand of the Cause of God Zikrullah Khadem, Dr. Farzam Arbáb, Dr. Hossain Danesh, Nat Rutstein, and many more. Please remember that Images pays royalties to such groups as the Association for Bahá’í Studies, the Green Lake Conference, the National Youth Committee, and others. Help support them by purchasing their materials! Images also distributes musical recordings by such gifted artists as Leslie and Kelly, Gordi Munro, Rose Paulson, Do’a, Doug Cameron and Jack Lenz. Cassette recordings are a great way to learn! Write today for a free catalog to Images International, P.O. Box 1051, Belchertown, MA 01007, or phone 413-323-5805.

INFORMATION and application materials for the 1987 Robert Hayden Fellowship in Poetry are now available from the Louhelen Bahá’í School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423.

TAPES from the Louhelen Women's Conference: "Women and the Age of Equality" by Dr. Jane Faily and "Women of Color in America" by Dr. Gwen Lewis are now available. $6 per tape. Write to Reflections, Louhelen Bahá’í School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423, or phone 313-653-5033. VISA or MasterCard accepted.

A COURSE on "Scriptural and Spiritual Answers to Fundamentalist Questions" by Jack McCants is an examination of basic Christian concepts in the light of Bahá’í teachings and includes many stirring stories used to illus-

new from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust

the Power of Unity Beyond Prejudice and Racism

142 pages; 334 extracts (including previously unavailable material) Foreword; Bibliography

A challenging compilation of extracts from the Bahá’í writings that clearly describes the need for unity and peace through the elimination of prejudice and racism and the part we are called upon to play in the evolution and spiritualization of the world

softcover $795 5 1/2 x 8 1/2 in.

Order through your local librarian, or send check or money order (no charge for postage or handling) to: Bahá’í Distribution Service 415 LINDEN AVENUE, WILMETTE, IL 60091 TEL 1-800-323-1880

• Price valid only in the United States

[Page 18]

El sacrificio está Intimamente Ligado al Amor

SPANISH

Nuestro Amado Guardían, Shoghi Effendi, ha escrito lo siguiente sobre el Fondo Bahá’í:

"Mientras más uno puede dar, es mejor, especialmente cuando para hacer tales ofrendas es necesario un sacrificio en lo que toca a otras necesidades y deseos por parte del donante.

Por supuesto, mientras más duro el sacrificio, más meritorio será ante la vista de Dios. Porque después de todo, no es la cantidad de la ofrenda de uno lo que cuenta tanto, sino mas bien la medida de privación que tal acto conlleva."

Después de haber leído y meditado sobre estas palabras de nuestro Amado Guardían Shoghi Effendi, llegamos a la conclusión de que el sacrificio está íntimamente ligado al amor.

Las palabras que dice el joven enamorado a su amada necesitan convertirse en acciones reales. De otra manera estas palabras no transcienden y su amada nunca va a poder comprobar la verdad de su amor.

Por otra parte, si el enamorado empieza a demostrar su amor a través de sus acciones, al ver que éstas acciones tienen un efecto positivo sobre su amada, aumenta su amor.

Sus demostraciones de amor se volverán más y más grandes. Hasta que finalmente el amante solo desea entregar plenamente todo lo que tiene a el objeto de su adoración.

"¡Oh amigo de Dios! Sean asegurados que en lugar de éstas contribuciones su agricultura, su industria y su comercio serán bendecidos por aumentos numerosos, con considerables favores y dádivas. Aquél quien viene con un buen acto recibirá una recompensa diez veces aumentada. No hay duda alguna que el Señor viviente confirmará abundantemente aquellos que gasten sus riquezas en Su sendero." (‘Abdu’l-Bahá)

El nos dice, refiriéndose a la aparición en éste mundo de Su Santidad Jesucristo que El "apareció con el objeto de iluminar el mundo de la humanidad, de transformar el mundo terrenal en otro celestial, para hacer del reino humano un reino de ángeles, para unir los corazones, para encender la llama del amor en las almas humanas, para que éstas almas se independicen para que alcancen completa unidad y camaradería, tornándose hacía Dios, entrando al Reino Divino recibiendo las bondades y dones de Dios y participando del maná celestial.

"Todos los sagrados preceptos y ordenanzas de las leyes de los Profetas fueron para éstos variados y celestiales propósitos.

"Como ya todos sabemos contribuir al Fondo es una ley de Dios establecida desde hace varias Dispensaciones atrás por los Profetas que vinieron antes de Bahá’u’lláh, esas luminarias de Dios.

"Es la sagrada obligación de cada servidor de Bahá’u’lláh concienzudo y fiel, que desea ver Su Causa adelantar, contribuir libre y generosamente para que ese Fondo aumente."--Shoghi Effendi

Ciudad Juárez determina metas del Plan de Seis Años

Los dias 7 y 8 de junio de 1986 la comunidad de ciudad Juárez, tuvo el enorme placer de contar con la presencia y colaboración del M.C.A. Guadalupe Ruiz Alcocer.

En su primer intento de plantear sus metas de acuerdo a los lineamientos dados por la Casa Universal de Justicia en su mas reciente Plan de Seis Años.

Esta comunidad se reunió en su Centro Bahá’í con la apreciable ayuda y orientación de Lupita, se logró establecer las metas de los Bahá’ís de esta localidad en los próximos seis años.

Se determinarón algunos puntos como:

Recursos—Intercomunicación entre los Estados Unidos y México, A.E.L. que funciona, un Centro Bahá’í, etc.

Limitaciones—Falta de material, falta de profundización a nivel de grupo, entre otras.

Metas—Impulsar el pionerismo a la ciudad de Chihuahua, traducción de oración corta al Tarahumara, etc.

Youth Conference set next July in Mexico

A Bahá’í International Youth Conference will be held July 24-26, 1987, in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico.

More details will be published in forthcoming issues of The American Bahá’í.

Dale Williams (left), a member of the Bahá’í community of Kalamazoo, Michigan, presents a copy of 'The Promise of World Peace' to Ike Peters, chief of the Grand Valley American Indian Lodge, while Bill Membertoe, a Native American from the Grand Rapids area, looks on. After the presentation, Mr. Williams was asked to lead in an honors dance for peace.

Consejero del Centro Internacional de Enseñanza habla en Ciudad Juárez

Seguimos con las actividades en ciudad Juárez: teniendo el privilegio de recibir en esta comunidad al Sr. Hooper Dunbar, Consejero del Centro Internacional de Enseñanza y el honor de que lo acompañara el Sr. Francisco Chiú.

El Sr. Dunbar se presentó en el Museo Regional de Arte e Historia del Instituto Nacional de Bellas Artes el 19 de junio a las 7:30 de la tarde.

El Plan de Seis Años fue el tema principal de esta conferencia, ya que no era la primera vez que se les pedía a las Asambleas Nacionales que elaboraran sus propios planes. Shoghi Effendi mismo pedía a las Asambleas que desarrollaran sus metas.

Aproximadamente asistieron 30 personas, solo Bahá’ís. Es tan evidente su sabiduría y elocuencia que todos queríamos concultar con él; por su esfuerzo muchas gracias, y por el apoyo moral para el próximo Encuentro Frontizero de Juventud.

En la misma actividad el día 20 de junio el Sr. Francisco Chiú ofreció una interesante charla al público en lugar antes mencionado. Acerca de la importancia de la Paz Mundial.

Durante su charla que fue muy amena y provechosa para la asistencia, se hizo notorio el alto nivel de preparación y la dedicación del Sr. Chiú; a quien deseamos de todo corazón agradecer su colaboración y apoyo para la enseñanza de la Fe, y el fortalecimiento del espíritu de los integrantes de esta comunidad.

Niño Bahá’í muere apedreado

Queridos Amigos Bahá’ís,

La Casa Universal de Justicia ha mandado el siguiente telex a seleccionadas Asambleas Espirituales Nacionales.

EN VARDÁVARD, UN PUEBLO EN AFUERAS DE KARAJ, CERCA DE TIHRÁN, NIÑO DE DIECISEIS AÑOS, MIEMBRO DE DEVOTA FAMILIA BAHÁ’Í, BÍZHAN TÁLIBÍ, FUE MATADO HACE UNOS DÍAS. ELEMENTOS FANÁTICOS EN PUEBLO REPETIDAMENTE HABÍAN ABUSADO ESTA FAMILIA Y OTROS AMIGOS LOCALES. CUERPO SE ENCONTRÓ EN JARDÍN CON EVIDENTES LESIONES SEVERAS POR GOLPES BRUTALES. ASESINOS COLGARÓN EL CUERPO PARA SIMULAR SUICIDIO. PERO POLICÍAS LOCALES QUE LLEGARÓN A ESCENA AFIRMARON MUERTE FUE POR LESIONES. MIEMBROS FAMILIA PROTESTARON A AUTORIDADES LOCALES, PERO ESTO RESULTÓ EN ENCARCELAMIENTO SOLITARIO PARA SU MAMÁ, HERMANO Y PRIMO EN TIHRÁN.

CASA UNIVERSAL DE JUSTICIA 8 DE OCTUBRE DE 1986

Louisiana Bahá’í co-edits book of essays on religious views of life after death

Dr. Christopher Jay Johnson, a Bahá’í who is director of gerontology at Northeast Louisiana University, is co-editor of a new book entitled Encounters with Eternity: Religious Views on Death and Life After Death.

The book was introduced to national bookstores in September and has received excellent reviews from, among others, best-selling author Ruth Montgomery, Dr. David Satin of the Harvard Medical School, and the Jewish Civic Press.

Contained in the book, which was published by the Philosophical Library of New York City, are essays on the death-related beliefs of 15 religions including the Bahá’í Faith.

Each was written by a member of that group, among whom are religious scholars and leaders from such places as the Harvard Divinity School, Stanford University, and the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

The list of participants in the book is diverse, ranging from Assemblies of God through Baptists, Buddhists, Hindus, Mormons and Muslims to Roman Catholics, Seventh-Day Adventists, Unitarians and others.

Dr. Johnson's co-editor is Dr. Marsha McGee, a fellow faculty member who is a Methodist. Dr. McGee initiated a course on death education at NLU in the 1970s and has written and lectured widely on the topics of death and dying.

The Bahá’í chapter was written by Dr. John Hatcher, author of several books who is a professor of English at the University of South Florida in Tampa.

DR. C.J. JOHNSON

In the book, each essayist writes about the background and main beliefs of his or her faith and describes how it views death and the afterlife. The appendix is set up in a question-and-answer format, and specific questions on such matters as the existence of heaven and hell, reincarnation, and what will happen on Judgment Day are dealt with by each essayist.

"I wanted our authors to tell it exactly like it is," says Dr. Johnson, "and to say it in layman's terms. This is a book for the public, not for academicians, even though a number of academicians probably will adopt it.

"The purpose is not to persuade people to change their religion. It's to get people who are Presbyterian, for instance, to understand what Presbyterians believe. Sometimes, people don't even know what their own religion believes."

150 Bahá’ís asisten al 'Primer Encuentro de Juventud Bahá’í'

Los dias 5 y 6 de julio de 1986 en el Salón de Conferencias del Motel Colonial Las Fuentes se llevó a cabo el "Primer Encuentro de Juventud Bahá’í."

Ciento cincuenta amigos Bahá’ís en un Encuentro maravilloso con mucha participación de los asistentes, quienes fueron mexicanos y americanos.

Se contó con la asistencia de dos miembros del Cuerpo Auxiliar de México y uno de los Estados Unidos, también con un miembro de la Asamblea Espiritual Nacional de México.

Los temas elegidos despertaron un interés enorme y muchas preguntas. La organización resultó excelente dado la magnitud del evento y lo nuevo de la comunidad.

Amenizaron los intermedios, varios amigos con música, también presentaron los niños un número bailable de "break."

Y el sábado por la noche se dió una conferencia sobre la Paz Mundial al público en general en el Museo del INBA. Siendo todo un éxito.

'Peace Child' play has performance in Harrisburg, Pa.

"Peace Child," a musical play promoted by the Peace Child Foundation as a means of bringing about closer understanding between the U.S. and Soviet Union, was performed September 7 in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, sponsored by the Greater Harrisburg Interfaith Peace Committee, of which the Spiritual Assembly is a member.

The Faith was mentioned at the opening of the sold-out event, and the Assembly's contribution to help support the Peace Child Foundation was mentioned in the program as was an Assembly-sponsored program for the International Day of Peace two weeks later.

A Bahá’í child, Jaleh Zandieh, was in the chorus, and two youth, Pat and Joe Basso, were ushers. Half of the children in the play are from the U.S. and half from Russia. The production toured the Soviet Union in August. [Page 19]

Refugees source of unity in Portland

On September 19 a crowd of about 50 Bahá’ís was on hand at the Portland, Oregon, airport to welcome five Persian Bahá’í refugees to their new home in America. The local Bahá’ís greeted the refugees with flowers and chanted “Alláh’u’Abhá” as the refugees arrived at the gate.

The Persian refugees were so overwhelmed at the sight that it brought tears of joy to their eyes. The presence of all the Bahá’ís greeting them at the airport made them feel welcome to their new home and created a sense of belonging to the American Bahá’í community.

In the meantime, 10 people in the airport learned about the Faith when they asked why such a large multi-racial and multi-ethnic crowd was gathered to greet a few arriving passengers.

This welcoming committee was possible because the Area Persian/American Affairs Committee (APAAC) of Portland and the Spiritual Assembly of Beaverton, as well as communities surrounding the Portland area, joined forces to help the incoming Bahá’í refugees.

One refugee couple, Mr. Nejatollah and Mrs. Khadijeh Tavangari, had been scheduled to arrive in Portland to be reunited with their son. In the meantime, the Voluntary Agency that was handling the Tavangaris’ case asked the local Bahá’ís to sponsor three other refugees, Mehrban, Majid and Mehrnoush Jazabi, two sisters and a brother who were supposed to be coming to the U.S. but were in need of sponsors. With only one day’s notice, the APAAC agreed to sponsor the Jazabis, and preparations were hurriedly made to receive them.

A member of the APAAC volunteered to provide initial housing until an apartment could be rented for the refugees. The Beaverton community offered to provide translation help and transportation for them. The message was also given to the surrounding communities that the Tavangaris and Jazabis would be arriving the next day at the airport.

Since September, the Bahá’ís around Portland have been busy taking the refugees to doctors and employment agencies and anywhere else they’ve needed to go. Every night a different Bahá’í family has invited the refugees to dinner, and they have all become friends. After two weeks an apartment was found for the Jazabis. The Spiritual Assembly of Beaverton furnished them with beds and kitchen supplies. Friendship meetings were held twice a week, as a result of which the individual Bahá’ís in the various communities involved feel much closer to each other than before.

The Jazabis were able to speak some English. Through their own efforts and with the help of a translator, it was learned that they had lived in the neighborhood of the House of the Báb in Iran, and they had pictures and personal information to share about its destruction and the martyrs of Shíráz, like Muna Mahmúdnizhád. Now they are receiving job training and are taking English classes.

HUQUQU’LLAH

حقوق‌الله

طبق صلاحدید و پیشنهاد هیئت امنای حقوق‌الله در آمریکا، تقدیمی‌های حقوق‌الله باید به‌نام Huququ’lláh Trust و به نشانی یکی از امنای حقوق ارسال شود.

Dr. Amin Banani Santa Monica, CA 90402

Dr. Elsie Austin P. O. Box 927 Silver Spring, MD 20910

Dr. Daryush Haghighi
Rocky River, Ohio 44116

HOMEFRONT PIONEERING

مهاجرت داخله

در شهر Wells ایالت نوادا نیاز به يك مدیر داخلی برای يك متل بیست و چهار اتاقه است. علاوه بر تأمین مسکن و مخارج برق مبلغ ۸۰۰ تا ۱۰۰۰ دلار در ماه بعنوان حقوق پرداخت خواهد شد.

این مبلغ بعد از سال اول به رقم ۲۰۰۰ دلار بالغ خواهد گشت. علاقمندان، که ضمناً باید آشنا بزبان انگلیسی محاوره‌ای باشند، میتوانند برای کسب اطلاع بیشتر با آقای طالب رضا تلفن ۵۰۸۰-۴۸۷ (۸۰۱) تماس بگیرند.

خانمی در شهر والپارزو Valparaiso واقع در ایالت ایندیانا احتیاج بيك همصحبت و ندیم فارسی زبان دارند. مخارج زندگی تأمین خواهد شد. علاقمندان میتوانند با تلفن ۷۹۳۰-۴۶۱ (۲۱۹) تماس حاصل نمایند.

AUXILIARY BOARD MEMBERS

انتصاب اعضای هیئت معاونت

اخیراً بیت‌العدل اعظم الهی اعلان فرمودند که در روز میثاق (۲۶ نوامبر) سال ۱۹۸۶ دوره جدید اعضای هیئت معاونت آغاز خواهد گردید. ایجاد هیئت معاونت نخستین بار توسط حضرت ولی‌ امرالله در رضوان سال ۱۹۵۴ صورت گرفت. ایشان مقرر فرموده بودند که وظیفه اصلی هیئت مزبور تحت هدایت ایادی امرالله كمك بمحافل ملی در اکمال و انجام اهداف جهاد كبير اكبر باشد. در سال مذکور تعداد محافل ملی ۱۳ و عده معاونین بالغ بر ۴۵ بود. در حال حاضر ۷۵۶ نفر اعضای هیئت معاونت را تشکیل میدهند که در ظل هدایت هیئت مشاورین قاره‌ای بمساعدت امور ۱۴۸ محفل روحانی ملی مشغولند. اسامی معاونین مسؤول ایالات متحده را میتوان در صفحات انگلیسی American Bahá’í جست.

SERVING AT THE WORLD CENTER

خدمت در ارض اقدس

در مرکز جهانی بهائی نیازی به يك ماشین‌نویس باتجربه برای وارد کردن آثار مبارکه در ماشینهای کامپیوتر است. متقاضیان باید پر پشتکار بوده، با آثار مبارکه آشنائی داشته باشند. همچنین احتیاجی بتعدادی باغبان و مأمور حفاظت برای باغهای اماکن مبارکه است. متقاضیان میتوانند جهت کسب اطلاع بیشتر با تلفن ۹۰۲-۸۶۹ (۳۱۲) یا با نشانی زیر تماس بگیرند:

Department of Human Resources, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, Il. 60091

NEW PUBLICATIONS

انتشارات جدید

1. امر و خلق، جلد ۳ و ۴ — ۲۵/۹۵ دلار
2. بهائیه خانم — ۱۶/۵۰ دلار
3. حیات حضرت عبدالبهاء — ۲۰/۰۰ دلار
4. نو نهالان ما در مهد امرالله — ۳/۰۰ دلار
5. خطابات مبارکه — ۱۴/۰۰ دلار
6. بسته آموزشی رضوان (برای اطفال ۴ تا ۹ ساله) — ۴/۰۰ دلار
7. تدریس عربی (خود آموز با ۶ نوار، شامل مخارج پست) — ۳۰/۰۰ دلار
8. پناهندگان ایرانی در آمریکا (معرفی خصوصیات فرهنگی ایرانیان بزبان انگلیسی) — ۱/۰۰ دلار

REFUGEES

پناهندگان

توانیم کرد یفعل مایشاء و یحکم مایرید است پس سر تسلیم نه و توکل بر رب رحیم به " فدای فرد فرد احبای الهی ذره فانی قدّس شبرخ (امضا)"

از سرکار خانم دکتر مهین شیاشی دختر عموی آن مظهر سرّ فدا، و از جناب اسکندر رفیعی که متعاقباً نسخه‌ای از وصیت‌نامه فوق را ارسال داشته‌اند سپاسگزاری مینمائیم.

طبق اطلاعاتی که اخیراً بدفتر امور پناهندگان بهائی رسیده است در فاصله ماه‌های جون و سپتامبر ۱۹۸۶ جمعاً ۲۹۹ نفر از یاران ایران با ویزای پناهندگی بایالت متحده وارد شده اند. این عدد شامل کسانیکه با سایر انواع ویزا وارد آمریکا شده اند نمیباشد. پیش‌بینی میشود که در سال مالی جدید (اکتبر ۸۶ تا سپتامبر ۸۷) در حدود چهار صد نفر دیگر از احبای ایران بتوانند بعنوان پناهنده در آمریکا مستقر شوند. اخیراً در پاکستان تقاضای پناهندگی عده معدودی از یاران ایرانی رد شده است و در این خصوص مراجعاتی بدفتر امور پناهندگان بهائی شده است که در اینجا توضیح مختصری ارائه میشود:

۱- قانون مهاجرت و ملیت آمریکا کسانی را بعنوان پناهنده میشناسد که بسبب فشار و تضییقات و خطرات ناشی از تبعیض نژادی، دینی، ملی، ویا بعلت عضویت در جمعیت یا طبقه خاصی، از مراجعت بکشور خود واهمه داشته باشند.

۲- در زمان مصاحبه با نماینده اداره مهاجرت، تقاضای پناهندگی کسانی پذیرفته میشود که بتوانند اطلاعات و شواهد و مدارکی ارائه دهند که ثابت کند از ترس جان و تضییقات و خطرات دیگر کشور خود را ترك گفته اند نه اینکه تنها بمنظور استفاده از امکانات بهتر اجتماعی مانند یافتن شغل یا ادامه تحصیل یا فرار از خدمت نظام وظیفه وطن خویش را ترك کرده اند.

۳- داوطلبی که در مصاحبه تقاضایش رد شده باشد میتواند تقاضای تجدید نظر در پرونده خود را بموسسه‌ای که پرونده او را تهیه نموده و قرار مصاحبه را گذاشته (در پاکستان Joint Voluntary Agency) تسلیم نماید. تقاضای تجدید نظر باید حاوی شواهد و قرائنی جدید مبتنی بر وجود خطر برای متقاضی و یا لااقل ترس از خطر باشد. تکرار مطالبی که در پرونده منعکس و در مصاحبه با نماینده اداره مهاجرت بیان شده بتنهائی کافی نیست.

۴- تقاضاهای تجدید نظر که کامل تشخیص داده شود فوراً بمرکز اداره مهاجرت در رم ارسال خواهد شد. مدیر مرکز مذکور در مورد رسیدگی بتقاضاهای تجدید نظر اختیار تام دارد. [Page 20]ساخته اند که مجاهدات منسجم یاران حاکی از انتقال مرحله بعهد ثانی عصر تکوین بوده است. تحکیم اساس محافل ملی و تجربیات اداری آن محافل را هیکل مبارک در طرح نقشه جهاد کبیر اکبر که متضمن اجرای همزمان دوازده نقشه ملی بود، بکار گرفتند. هادی نقشه های مزبور فرامین تبلیغی حضرت عبدالبهاء و اهداف آن بوسیله حضرت ولی امرالله از مرکز جهانی امر معین شده بود. بدین ترتیب عهد ثانی واضحاً حاکی از نضج بیشتر مؤسسات نظم بدیع و شاهد انتصاب ایادی امرالله و تعیین هیئت معاونت و تأسیس شورای بین المللی بهائی، و ذروه علیای آن تشکیل بیت العدل اعظم الهی در سال ١٩٦٣ بود. همچنین عهد مذکور نمایانگر استفاده متوازن و موثر از وسائط اداری بمنظور اکمال اهداف اولین جهاد روحانی جهانی و ظهور و جلوه شدید مرکز جهانی بهائی بود.

عهد ثالث عصر تکوین: ١٩٦٣-١٩٨٦

حضرت ولی امرالله در خطابی بمحفل ملی انگلستان در ‎در بسال بسال‎ ١٩٥١ پیش بینی "مشروعات جهانی عظیمه ای" را فرموده اند که "در عهود آتیه عصر تکوین در ظل اراده بیت العدل اعظم باجرایش مبادرت خواهد شد." بیت العدل اعظم الهی ضمن اعلان نقشه ‎که ساله نه ساله‎ "دومین مشروع عظیم جهانی که بمرور زمان مقدر است کلمه الهیه را ‎بسمامع بمسامع‎ جمیع افراد بشر برساند"، مبادرت بامری نمودند که حضرت ولی امرالله پیش بینی فرموده بودند و آن اعلام حلول عهد ثالث عصر تکوین بود. این عهد مستلزم قبول وظائف اداری مهمتر و متناسب با ازدیاد و اتساع و تنوع جامعه بهائی، و ظهور آن بعنوان نمونه ای برای نوع انسان، و همچنین مرتبط با بسط حدود تأثیرات امرالهی بر عالم انسانی بود. بیت العدل اعظم الهی در مرقومه مورخه اکتبر سال ١٩٦٣ میفرمایند: "دوستان عزیز، امر الهی که از آغاز ظهورش در کهف حفظ و حراست مظهر امر حضرت رحمن و مرکز عهد و پیمان و ولی امر رب منان محفوظ و مصون بوده، اکنون وارد عهد ثالث عصر تکوین گردیده است. حال وقت آنست که امرالله رشدی سریع نماید و بر اتحاد و قابلیت اجرائی خود بیفزاید و به تحکیم مؤسساتش بپردازد و بر جمیع طبقات جامعه اثر گذارد. احبای الهی بعنوان اعضای جامعه بهائی باید با مطالعه مداوم کلمه خلاقه الهیه و خدمت عاشقانه، به تقویت ظرفیت روحانی خویش بپردازند و روش زندگی پر مسؤولیت و سعادتمندانه و مطمئنی را بجهانیان ارائه دهند که با تعصبات و هیجانات و اختلالات جامعه کنونی فاصله بسیار دارد." عهد ثالث مشتمل بر سه نقشه جهانی با شرکت کلیه محافل ملی در ظل هدایت بیت العدل اعظم بود. نقشه های مذکور عبارت بودند از نقشه نه ساله (١٩٦٤-١٩٧٣)، نقشه پنجساله (١٩٧٤-١٩٧٩)، و نقشه هفت ساله (١٩٧٩-١٩٨٦). عهد ثالث شاهد خروج امر الهی از مرحله مجهولیت و آغاز طرح برنامه های توسعه اجتماعی و اقتصادی بود. مؤسسه مشاورین قاره ای که منجر به تأسیس دارالتبلیغ بین المللی گردید تشکیل گشت و مساعدین هیئت معاونت معین گردیدند. در مرکز جهانی امر بهائی واقعه تاریخی بنای دارالتشریع بیت العدل اعظم اکلیل مشروعات امریه بود.

عهد رابع عصر تکوین: ١٩٨٦-

بیت العدل اعظم الهی در پیام مورخ ٢ ژانویه سال ١٩٨٦، حلول عهد رابع عصر تکوین را اعلام فرمودند. معهد اعلی با تشخیص آمادگی جامعه بهائی بمنظور تعیین مقاصد و اهداف نقشه شش ساله جدید، که مقرر است در ٢١ آوریل ١٩٨٦ آغاز شود، مشروعات مهمه ای را که در خلال عهد ثالث در "رشد حیاتی امرالله" اکمال یافته مذکور داشتند و اهداف و خصوصیات کلی نقشه جدیده را ترسیم فرمودند. هر چند پیش از این نقشه های ملی عمده از مرکز جهانی طرح میگردید، در عهد رابع جزئیات اهداف ملی، در محدوده مقاصد کلی آن نقشه، با مشورت توأم هر یک از محافل ملی و هیئت مشاورین قاره ای طرح و تنظیم خواهد گشت. چنانکه بیت العدل اعظم مرقوم فرموده اند: "این امر جدید معرف مرحله نوینی در رشد و نمو نظم بدیع است. حضرت ولی عزیز امرالله بتوالی عهود مختلفی در طی عصر تکوین اشاره فرموده بودند. لذا این مشتاقان بلا تردید اعلام میدارند که پیشرفت اخیر در زمینه تحول و تحکیم مؤسسات بهائی حاکی از حلول عهد رابع آن عصر است."

عهود آتیه

وظائف و اموری که باید در طی عصر تکوین انجام گیرد خطیر و کثیر است. عهود آتیه ای را میتوان انتظار داشت که هر یک شاخص مراحل مهمه ای در نضج و رشد و ارتقای نظم اداری و مآلاً منجر بعصر ذهبی امر مبارک خواهد شد. عصر ذهبی فی نفسه شامل عهودی متوالی خواهد بود که بالمال منجر بتأسیس صلح اعظم و تشکیل جامعه متحد جهانی بهائی و "ولادت و اثمار مدنیتی جهانی خواهد گشت".

قسمتی از وصیتنامه شهید امر مبارک فدرس شبرخ FEDROS SHABROKH

"اینجانب فدرس شبرخ فرزند عطاء الله ... که در روز یکشنبه دوازدهم آبانماه سال ١٣٦٤ شمسی در دادگاه انقلاب اسلامی زاهدان بنا باقرار صریح مقام محترم حاکم شرع دادگاه انقلاب اسلامی به خلاف بهائی بودن و اینکه حاضر نشدم متدین بدیانت مقدس اسلام مذهب شیعه اثنی عشری شوم و دیانت مقدس بهائی را انکار و رد نمایم محکوم باعدام گردیدم . اینک در صحت و سلامت کامل و در کمال هوشیاری و عقل سلیم مبادرت به تنظیم وصیت نامه خود مینمایم "آغاز گفتار پرستش پروردگار است و این پس از شناسائی است . چشم پاك باید تا بشناسد و زبان پاك باید تا بستاید . امروز روی های اهل دانش و بینش سوی اوست . بلکه سویها را جمله رو بسوی اوست ." اقرار و اعتراف و ایمان به حقانیت انبیاء وادیان الهی منجمله حقانیت رسالت آلهی رسول اکرم محمد بن عبدالله ص و دیانت مقدس اسلام و کتاب آسمانی قرآن مجید و ائمه اطهار و همچنین ایمان و اعتقاد به مبشریت حضرت اعلی روحی فداه و شارع مقدس دیانت بهائی جمال اقدس ابهی حضرت بهاء الله جل ظهوره و مبین آثار الهی حضرت عبدالبهاء، روحی فداه و ولایت امرآلهی حضرت ولی عزیز امرالله جل اسمه الاعلی و اطاعت تام و تمام از بیت العدل اعظم آلهی که اوامرشان مصون از خطاست و ملهمند به الهامات غیبی الهی و احترام به محافل مقدسه روحانیه ملیه و محلیه و ایمان و اعتقاد به تحقق اهداف عالیه انسانی و بشر دوستانه دیانت مقدس بهائی، وحدت عالم انسانی و صلح عمومی و آرزوی آگاهی مسؤولین محترم کشور مقدس ایران و جلوگیری از هر گونه ظلم و ستم بر این جامعه مظلوم ... از فرزندان عزیزم شمیم و شروین تقاضا دارم به تحصیل علم و دانش در جهت خدمت بعالم بشری کوشا بوده و ایمان به دیانت الهی را حصنی متین برای خود شمرند چه که حق میفرماید "اهل ثروت و اصحاب عزت و قدرت باید حرمت دین را بأحسن ما یمکن في الابداع ملاحظه نمایند دین نوریست مبین و حصنی است متین چه که از برای حفظ و آسایش اهل عالم خشیة الله ناس را بمعروف امر و از منکر نهی ننماید و اگر سراج دین مستور ماند هرج و مرج راه یابد و نیر عدل و انصاف و آفتاب امن و اطمینان از نور باز مانند. هر آگاهی بر آنچه ذکر شد گواهی داده و میدهد" و همیشه نصایح مادرشان را مورد توجه و دقت قرار دهند. در این واپسین دم حیات بیاد فرد فرد عزیزانم پدر و مادر و کلیه برادران و خانواده آنها علی الخصوص ... عزیز که در این برهه از زمان او نیز متحمل درد و رنج فراوانی شده و کلیه فامیل ... و دوستان و آشنایان خصوصاً احبای عزیز ... و عزیزان هر بند ... بوده و از صمیم قلب از همه شما متشکرم و امیدوارم که از دعا و مناجات فراموشم نفرمائید. از اله عزیز و فرزندانم تقاضا دارم صبر و شکیبائی را فراموش ننموده و باین مناجات آلهی توجه نمایند: "هو الله ای غریب دلخون غم مخور غمگسار مهربان داری، محزون مباش مخدوم بزرگوار داری. هرچند در دریای محن و آلام مستغرقیم ولی سفینه نجاتی داریم و هر چند در ظلمات شدائد و مصائب گرفتاریم ولی مه تابانی داریم. ملجأئی چون ملکوت الهی داریم و مأمنی چون حصون ملاء اعلی. دیگر چه اضطرابی و چه احتراقی چون در ظل میثاقی." آنچه را که خیر و صلاح خود می دانید عمل کنید و بخدمات امر الهی قائم و استوار باشید. "آنچه کند او کند ما چه ... [Page 21]

ترجمه تلگراف بیت العدل اعظم

مورخ ۱۴ نوامبر ۱۹۸۶ TELEGRAM FROM THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE

با قلوبی مغموم صعود مدافع شجیع و خستگی ناپذیر امرالهی ایادی محبوب امرالله جناب ذکرالله خادم را اعلام مینمائیم. خدمات باهره و همم عالیه اش در اجرای وظائف محوله از جانب حضرت ولی عزیز امرالله و مساعی جلیله اش بعنوان یکی از امنای محفل روحانی ملی در مهد امرالله و تصرفات روحانیه گرانقدرش در اجتذاب قلوب احباء الله در امریکای شمالی علی الخصوص جامعه یاران ایالات متحده و مجهودات خستگی ناپذیرش در خطابات و مراسلات بمنظور حفظ و صیانت میثاق الله و القاء محبت حضرت ولی امرالله نور و جلائی لایفنی بر دوره مباشرتش در امر مبارک میافکند. در اعتاب مقدسه از برای ارتقای روح پر فتوحش در ملکوت ابهی دعا میشود. سزاوار است جلسات تذکر شایسته ای بیاد آن متصاعد الی الله در کلیه مشارق اذکار و جوامع محلیه امریه منعقد گردد.

بیت العدل اعظم

شرح حال و خدمات باهره ایادی محبوب امرالله جناب ذکرالله خادم علیه رضوان الله را در شماره آینده ملاحظه خواهید فرمود.

ترجمه مرقومه دارالتحقیق معهد اعلی راجع بعهود عصر تکوین

FOURTH EPOCH

۵ فوریه ۱۹۸۶ خطاب بکلیه محافل روحانی ملی دوستان عزیز بهائی

در دستخط بیت العدل اعظم مورخ ۲ ژانویه ۱۹۸۶ خطاب به بهائیان عالم اشارتی بحلول عهد چهارم عصر تکوین رفته بود. در پی سؤالاتی که متعاقباً از دیوان عدل الهی در باب مراحل مربوط به عهود اولیه آن عصر شده بود، از دارالتحقیق معهد اعلی خواسته شد تا مطالبی در آن باره آماده سازد. حال آن مطالب فراهم آمده و ارائه گشته و نسخه ای از آن ارسال میگردد. لحاظ مطالب مذکور را که در این اوان حائز اهمیت خاصی است هر آنگونه که صلاح دانند با یاران در میان گذارند تا در جلسات تزئید معلومات و مدارس تابستانه و کنفرانسها و سایر مجامع مورد مطالعه قرار گیرد.

باتحیات ابدع ابهی از طرف دارالانشاء

مقدمه

حضرت ولی امرالله بمظور ارائه دورنمائی از دور حضرت بهاءالله، به سه مرحله تکاملی اصلی که امر الهی لابد از طی آنست اشاره میفرمایند: عصر رسولی (۱۸۴۴-۱۹۲۱) عصر طلعات قدسیه امر الهی، عصر تکوین (۱۹۲۱- ) که صفت مشخصه آن نشو و قوام نظم بدیع، مبتنی بر اجرای مفاد الواح وصایای حضرت عبدالبهاءست، عصر ذهبی: که نمودار تحقق و اکمال اهداف این دور بدیع است. مطالعه دقیق جزئیات تاریخ بهائی نشان میدهد که هر یک از این اعصار متشکل از دوره هائیست که در واقع اجزای لاینفک یک کل محسوب میشوند. در باره عصر رسولی امر بهائی، حضرت ولی امرالله در یکی از مراسلات خویش بتاریخ ۵ جون سال ۱۹۴۷ مصرح داشته اند که عصر مذکور متشکل از سه عهد بوده است. سپس هیکل مبارک صفات ممیزه هر عهد را بیان فرموده اند: "عصر رسولی دیانت بهائی به سه عهد مجزای نه ساله، سی و نه ساله، و بیست و نه ساله منقسم گردیده که بترتیب مصادف با دور بابی، دوره حضرت بهاءالله، و دوره حضرت عبدالبهاء گشته است. عصر اولیه دور بهائی که از لحاظ اثمار روحانی خود قابل قیاس با هیچیک از ادوار سابقه مظاهر سالفه نبوده از آغاز تا انجامش بواسطه قوای خلاقه صادره از ظهور دو مظهر مستقل کلی الهی، و تأسیس عهد و پیمانی بی نظیر و مثیل بارور گشته." عصر تکوین که هم اکنون اهل بهاء در آن بسر میبرند و بخدمت امر قائمند با صعود حضرت عبدالبهاء آغاز گردید. مقصد اصلی عصر مذکور تشکیل و توسیع و تحکیم مؤسسات محلی و ملی و بین المللی امر بهائیست. وظائفی که در بیان ذیل برای عصر تکوین معین گشته حاکی از آنست که تحقق و انجام امور مذکور مستلزم نضج و تکامل روز افزون فعالیتهای جامعه بهائی است: "در خلال عصر تکوین امر بهائی، مایه ظهور زمان حال و استقبال، تأسیس بیت العدل اعظم الهی که بمنزله اکلیل جلیل و آخرین مرحله در تشیید دعائم نظم بدیع امر جمال قدم محسوب، متحقق خواهد شد و کتاب اقدس، ام الکتاب شریعت ‎بفرایش بفرایض‎ تدوین، و قوانینش اعلام و منتشر خواهد گشت. صلح اصغر مؤسس و بر قرار، وحدت عالم انسانی حاصل و پدیدار و بلوغ عالم محرز و نمودار خواهد شد. اهداف فرامین تبلیغی حضرت عبدالبهاء محقق خواهد گشت و رهائی امر الهی از قیود تعصبات دینی واقع و استقلال شأن شریعت سماویه مسلم و آشکار خواهد گردید." عهود عصر تکوین معرف مراحل تدریجی تکامل جامعه بهائی و نمودار رشد و بلوغ مؤسسات آن و بهمین جهت ممد امر الهی خواهد بود تا در مراحل جدیدتر بفعالیت بپردازد و وظایف جدیدی را بپذیرد. میقات هر عهد بوسیله مرکز امر معین خواهد گردید، و با در نظر گرفتن طبیعت فعاله رشد ارتقائی، محتمل است که انتقال از یک عهد بعهد دیگر دفعی نباشد بلکه چه بسا که این انتقال بتدریج صورت گیرد. حلول عصر تکوین و ختام عهد اول آن هر دو شاهدی بر این مورد است: غالباً صعود حضرت عبدالبهاء بعنوان مرحله ای انتقالی محسوب میگردد که انتهای عصر رسولی و ابتدای عصر تکوین است. ولیکن حضرت ولی امر الله همچنین ابراز فرموده اند که عصر رسولی امر الهی "‎بالاخض بالاخص‎ با صعود اخت محبوب و عالیقدر حضرت ورقه مبارکه علیا و آخرین یادگار عصر بسالت و جلال" بسال ۱۹۳۲ اختتام پذیرفت. در مورد خاتمه اولین عهد عصر تکوین حضرت ولی امر الله آنرا مابین سالهای ۱۹۴۴ و ۱۹۴۶ قرار داده اند. قبل از شرح هر یک از عهود عصر تکوین لازم است توضیحی در باب موارد استفاده کلمه "عهد" در آثار حضرت ولی امر الله داده شود. در نامه ای بتاریخ ۱۸ جون سال ۱۹۵۳ که از طرف ایشان خطاب بیکی از محافل روحانی ملی مرقوم گشته، این نکته روشن شده که کلمه مزبور هم بمراحل عصر تکوین اطلاق میشود و هم بدوره های تحقق اهداف فرامین تبلیغی حضرت عبدالبهاء. در حال حاضر اهل بهاء در چهارمین عهد عصر تکوین و دومین عهد فرامین تبلیغی حضرت عبدالبهاء بسر میبرند. (عهد اول فرامین تبلیغی با اولین نقشه هفت ساله جامعه بهائیان آمریکای شمالی در سال ۱۹۳۷ آغاز شد و با اکمال و اتمام جهاد کبیر اکبر بسال ۱۹۶۳ خاتمه یافت. عهد ثانی فرامین تبلیغی حضرت عبدالبهاء در سال ۱۹۶۴ مقارن با آغاز نقشه نه ساله بیت العدل اعظم افتتاح گردید.) غرض از تدوین این بیانیه شرح عهود مختلف عصر تکوین دور جمال قدم است.

عهد اول عصر تکوین: ۱۹۲۱-۱۹۴۴/۱۹۴۶

عهد اول عصر مزبور شاهد "ولادت و مراحل اولیه تشیید اعمده نظم اداری امر الهی" بود. صفت مشخصه این عهد تأکید بر تشکیل مؤسسات محلی و ملی در قارات خمسه عالم بوده که بنوبه خود سرآغاز تحصیل وسائط لازمه برای تبلیغ منظم امر الهی در آتیه بشمار میرفت. همچنین عصر مذکور شاهد طرح اولین نقشه هفت ساله جامعه بهائی آمریکا (۱۹۳۷-۱۹۴۴) بتحریض و هدایت حضرت ولی امرالله بود. نقشه مزبور ملهم از فرامین تبلیغی حضرت عبدالبهاء و نمودار اولین مجاهده منظم جامعه بهائی و آغاز مراحل اولیه اجرا و انجام اهداف فرامین تبلیغی حضرت عبدالبهاء در نیمکره غربی بود.

عهد ثانی عصر تکوین: ۱۹۴۶-۱۹۶۳

عهد مزبور با ایجاب "تحقق و اکمال نظم بدیع"، سبب توسیع پیشرفتهای حاصل در عهد اول گشت و شاهد طرح نقشه های تبلیغی متوالی بمنظور تسهیل اتساع امر الهی در ورای محدوده نیمکره غربی و قاره اروپا گردید. وجه امتیاز این عهد در وهله اول اجرای همزمان نقشه های ملی در شرق و غرب عالم بود. فی المثل، در توقیع نوروز سنه ۱۰۵ بدیع، خطاب بیاران شرق، حضرت ولی عزیز امر الله نقشه های مطروحه محافل ملیه ایالات متحده آمریکا، انگلستان، هندوستان، ایران، استرالیا، نیوزیلند، و عراق را مذکور داشته و خاطرنشان [Page 22]

DR. ‘ALI-MURAD DAVUDI

(This is the third in a series of profiles of recent martyrs in Iran taken from information in the files of the Persian/American Affairs Office at the Bahá’í National Center.)

Dr. ‘Ali-Murad Davudi was a professor of philosophy in the Faculty of Letters at the University of Tehran.

He was the author of a book on Aristotelian philosophy entitled Reason in the Wisdom of the Peripatetics: From Aristotle to Avicenna, which was used as a text at the university, and had translated Aristotle's On the Soul and works by several French philosophers into Persian.

The classes he taught each year at Bahá’í summer schools were well-attended, especially by Bahá’í youth of high school and college age. A favorite class was on the philosophical points expounded by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in Some Answered Questions.

Dr. Davudi was an eloquent and powerful speaker who weighed his words carefully, always choosing precisely the correct terms and expressions. Many of his Bahá’í talks on topics such as non-involvement in politics were recorded and widely distributed among the Bahá’ís in Iran.

As secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly of Iran, Dr. Davudi would leave his office at the university three or four times a week at 10 a.m. to come to the National Assembly's office and work well into the evening.

He was extraordinarily meticulous, taking special care that no matter before the Assembly, however inconsequential, should be overlooked.

He was also a humble man, and when he needed to travel to other parts of Iran on behalf of the National Spiritual Assembly he would do so by bus, at his own expense, so as not to drain the financial resources of the Bahá’í community.

On November 11, 1979, Dr. Davudi was kidnapped. Seven years later, there is still no word of his whereabouts or that of the other members of the National Spiritual Assembly who were later kidnapped. They are all presumed dead.

At the time of his disappearance, Dr. Davudi was about 60 years old. The example of his humble but brilliant service and scholarship remains as an inspiration for us all.

SOC/ECONOMIC

In March 1985, when the local Fund was at a low ebb, the Spiritual Assembly of White Plains, an attractive city of 50,000 about 18 miles north of New York City, embarked on a bold plan to present a "peace tree" to the city, have a formal dedication program, and present the peace statement to the mayor.

Carrying out such a plan, the Assembly reasoned, would help to accomplish three of its goals: distributing the peace statement; proclaiming 1986 the International Year of Peace; and informing every resident in White Plains of the existence of the Faith before the close of 142 B.E.

The White Plains Beautification Foundation was contacted to see if an individual or the city would donate a spot for planting the tree.

One member of the Foundation's Board of Directors responded favorably to the proposal but pointed out that if the city were to donate land, the tree would have to meet certain specifications and be professionally planted.

After learning that a tree conforming to city specifications would cost $350, the Assembly proceeded, in spite of its lack of funds, to step two: the presentation of a formal proposal to the Beautification Foundation, which quickly accepted it and offered to pursue the search for an appropriate site with the city or private owner of suitable property.

When a plot of land was found and offered, the Assembly could hardly believe its good fortune—the site was on a large green in front of the YWCA, a few hundred feet north of the center of the city, across the street from the main entrance to Pace University, and within a few feet of a bus stop needing shelter and a place to sit.

Benches were priced, and the Assembly was told that a granite bench with carved lettering, which the YWCA preferred, would cost $600. The city, which wanted a teak bench, had to first find out who owned the property.

After researching the matter, it was decided that the city did indeed own the property, and the Assembly's order for a granite bench was canceled only minutes before the carver put chisel to stone.

The teak bench brought the over-all cost of the project including tree, copies of the peace statement, pamphlets, postage, etc., to $1,200.

A flyer explaining the Assembly's proposal, the city's response to it, and the cost was prepared and sent to about 200 individuals, Groups and Assemblies in eastern New York State. Contributions soon began to come in, the total of which amounted to $1,185.

Given a choice for the dedication ceremony of any day during the Memorial Day weekend, the mayor of White Plains chose noon on May 23, the anniversary of the Declaration of the Báb.

On that day some 70 people gathered on the green near a large banner made by a Bahá’í artist and his father which proclaimed the event to passersby.

A 14-foot strapling tree, destined in coming generations to grow into a giant red oak, was planted in front of an elegant six-foot-long teakwood bench that bears the inscription "Tree of Peace 1986-Bahá’í Community."

Among those attending were the mayor, several city councilmen, board members of the Beautification Foundation and the YWCA, and department heads of the city's Parks and Public Works commissions.

The two youngest contributors to the Tree of Peace Fund cut the white satin ribbon to dedicate the tree, after which the air rang with songs of peace sung with great enthusiasm.

After the program, the mayor tapped one Bahá’í on the arm and said, "This was a beautiful event. I have only one regret, and that is that it was not video taped."

The ‘Tree of Peace’ and bench given to the city of White Plains, New York, at a ceremony May 23 by the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of White Plains.

Some socio-economic projects in Western states

The following list of examples of Bahá’í social and economic development projects in the Western States was compiled by the National Social and Economic Development Committee.

California

Los Angeles Bahá’í Center, Family School (weekly). William Sears (Pasadena) Bahá’í School (weekly). San Francisco Bahá’í Center, alcoholism counseling.

Nevada

Spiritual Assembly of Sparks co-sponsoring with the Committee to Aid Abused Women an "End to Domestic Violence Week," October 6-12.

Oregon

Assemblies in Bend and Deschutes County have initiated "Year of Peace" projects, working with many non-Bahá’ís, including a Peace Fair-UN birthday party, and symposia on racial prejudice, women, and peace. Bahá’ís formed the local chapter of "Beyond War" and negotiated with the school district in Bend to present a non-credit class for high school juniors and seniors called "Building a Positive Future: Helping Bring Peace to the World." Classes began in September.

Central Oregon Bahá’í Family School (bi-weekly). Many non-Bahá’í families attend. Focus is on learning to use consultation in the day-to-day life of the family.

Portland/Northwest Oregon area youth service project on the Lapwai Indian Reservation in Idaho.

Western Oregon Social and Economic Development Committees (ongoing). Purpose: to address solutions to both social and economic needs, which must necessarily begin in the Bahá’í community, from a material standpoint using a spiritual process with the Bahá’í writings as a source. To serve Bahá’ís and non-Bahá’ís. Organizational format: SED Board (planning, over-all management); Creative Economic Consortium (provides economic opportunity, analysis and development); Center of Human Affairs (identifies and addresses individual and social needs and development); Resource Network Data Bank.

"Resource Network" (Bahá’í Social and Economic Development Committee, Western Oregon) to include: "Community Resources" (counseling, financial help, resources, etc.); "Of, By and For Bahá’ís" (Bahá’í services and products); "Monthly Bulletin" and "Planning Coordination Service" (telephone contact for event coordination).

The Spiritual Assembly of The Dalles and the Bahá’í Group in Hood River are co-sponsoring "Community Meals,’ a non-profit corporation, with non-Bahá’í service organizations.

The Portland Metro Area Bahá’í School (in its third year) has nine classes, 44 teachers, 21 staff, and 275 students from 29 communities.

Also in Portland, the Chinese Committee is helping Chinese Bahá’ís and associates to understand American culture, language, schools and business problems. There are also ongoing special projects to assist Hmong-speaking families.

Notice on pilgrimage

Due to the recent cutbacks in staff at the Bahá’í National Center, we request that all telephone calls relating to pilgrimage be made on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. CST.

Your compliance with this request will allow for more efficient scheduling of staff and better over-all service to the friends. Your understanding and cooperation are deeply appreciated.

Major distributor of educational films accepts video ‘Promise of World Peace’ for mailing list

A major distributor of educational films and videos has reviewed the new video, "The Promise of World Peace," and accepted it for distribution to its entire mailing list of more than 7,000 customers including universities, churches, libraries, government agencies and peace organizations across the country.

Physicians for Social Responsibility, recipient of the 1985 Nobel Peace Prize, sent its response to Cyrus Parvini, producer of the video:

"The Promise of World Peace’ translates Einstein's imperative of ‘a new manner of thinking if mankind is to survive’ into a positive faith and a hopeful vision of universal peace."

Organizations who receive the distributor's brochure must purchase the tape at its retail price of $29.95 for VHS or Beta; however, the agreement between producer and distributor does not preclude Bahá’ís contacting these organizations at the local level and offering free copies if they cannot afford to purchase one.

Two versions of the tape are available. The first, which runs 20 minutes, highlights the peace statement and includes comments by Judge Dorothy Nelson; the second, which runs 27 minutes, contains additional commentary by Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh.

The video is now available in some Bahá’í bookstores and is distributed nationally through Kalimát Press, 1600 Sawtelle Blvd., Suite 34, Los Angeles, CA 90025 (phone 213-479-5668).

For more specific information about the video, please refer to the article in the November issue of The American Bahá’í. [Page 23]Pictured are members of the National Persian/American Affairs Committee for 1986-87: back row (left to right) Dr. Shad Afsahi, Anaheim, California; Charlene Maghzi, San Francisco, California; Evander Gilmer, Fort Washington, Maryland. Front row (left to right) Puran Stevens and Dr. Manouchehr Derakhshani, both of whom work in the Persian/American Affairs Office at the Bahá’í National Center in Wilmette, Illinois.

Children, here’s how you can be a part of history during ‘Spirit of the Roses’

Dear Children,

Have you heard the exciting news? You can be a part of making history during this special time of the Spirit of the Roses!

Bahá’ís all around the country are joining together for 189 days to think of new ways to do things for our Faith: teaching, service projects, giving to the Fund and doing deeds which will never be forgotten.

The 189 days of special service is a way that we American Bahá’ís can reply to a “love letter” from our brothers and sisters in Iran. At the most recent National Convention, the Bahá’ís of Iran sent 189 roses to all of us in America. You may even have seen one of those roses at a meeting in your area. Each rose stands for a Persian Bahá’í who has given his life for being a Bahá’í.

Those Persian Bahá’ís (including some Bahá’í youth) have offered the greatest deed by giving their lives. Their acts of courage and deep faith are remembered even in the Abhá Kingdom.

Now you have a chance to get your deeds in a “Book of Deeds” here and now. In honor of those 189 believers who have been martyred, Bahá’í children and adults are giving themselves to 189 days of extra service. We do this not only to honor those 189 martyrs in Iran, but to remind ourselves that we can do so many things that the Persian Bahá’ís—in prison or out of prison—cannot do. So put even more of your heart into your Feasts, firesides, Fund-giving and children’s classes. And let us know about your deeds so that what you do can be part of the special Book of Deeds! We’ll have so much to share at Riḍván when we look at all the love we have given to our Faith during the Spirit of the Roses.

Youth and the Fund

‘Roses’ present opportunity to serve

Perhaps you’ve caught wind of the movement that is presently sweeping the country.

It is a movement in which the believers of the U.S. are arising to proclaim the Faith and to make personal sacrifices in their contributions to the National Fund in the “Spirit of the Roses” sent by the Bahá’í prisoners in Iran.

In what ways will the youth arise to redeem the roses? Please send in your special contributions, photographs, and victory stories! Let’s increase the youth participation in the National Fund for our friends in Iran!

Youth participation in the National Bahá’í Fund

Goal	300
	200
	100
Month	Jamál
	‘Azamat
	Núr
	Raḥmat
	Kalimát
	Kamál
	Asmá’
	‘Izzat
	Mashíyyat
	‘Ilm
	Qudrat
	Qawl
	Masá’il
	Sharaf
	Sulṭán
	Mulk
	‘Alá
	Bahá
	Jalál

Bahá’ís from four Midwestern states discuss video use to promote Faith

Bahá’ís from four Midwestern states met September 20 at the Bahá’í Center in Kansas City, Missouri, to consult on ways to increase the use of video to promote the Faith.

Those who attended the conference either work in video production or have an interest in video and how it can be used more effectively to proclaim and consolidate the Faith.

Among the results of the group’s first meeting is a plan to compile a directory of media resources. The directory would list such things as Bahá’í-produced programs suitable for use on public access channels, public service spots, and programs for commercial and public broadcasting stations.

Also listed would be professionals in the field, support services, and other audio and visual resources.

This first conference brought together Bahá’ís from Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska. The group planned to meet again this month in Wichita, Kansas.

If you would like to contribute to the Bahá’í media resources directory, write to “Bahá’í Directory,” c/o Lee Reams, KSAS-TV 24, Wichita, KS 67203.

BAHÁ’Í WINS TOP AWARD IN COMPOSITION

David Lavallee, a 10-year-old Bahá’í who is in the fifth grade at Gordon School in Dillon, South Carolina, was recently given the Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Excellence in Composition.

David, an active teacher of the Faith, had been in the school for only a month after he and his family left Pawtucket, Rhode Island, to become homefront pioneers in Dillon, an area of mass-taught Bahá’ís near the border with North Carolina.

The title of David’s winning composition was “I Have a Dream, Too,” and was about designing robots.

The awards are given to a select number of fourth, fifth and sixth graders by Lt. Gov. Michael R. Daniel of South Carolina.

Clergy service post to Mary K. Radpour

Mary K. Radpour of Chattanooga, Tennessee, who was recently appointed an Auxiliary Board member, has been named to the recently created position of vice-president for community service by the Clergy Association of Greater Chattanooga.

“We are very pleased to have her as a board member,” the Association said in its newsletter, “and know that her expertise will add greatly to our Association.”

A poster entitled ‘One World Music,’ designed for a concert series at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City by Kathryn and Phillip Doherty, co-owners of Doherty & Doherty Creative Services in Greenwich, Connecticut, won first prize in the Connecticut Art Directors’ Club’s annual ‘One Show’ and has been chosen out of 32,000 entries to represent the Northeast region in Print magazine’s current Design Annual. Mrs. Doherty is a Bahá’í.

from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust

Two new audio cassettes on important peace statement themes

Women: Equality and Peace by Counselor Peter Khan International Teaching Center member

A discussion on the important connection among peace, women, and the equality of the sexes with a survey of the history of women and guiding principles that will help us achieve true equality

This Century of Progress by Dr. Bahia Mitchell Bahá’í World Center staff member

An examination of world conditions with an overview of the social and scientific achievements contributing to the establishment of international peace in this century

Excellent for deepening and teaching at home, in Bahá’í gatherings, while you commute

$7.00 each 60-minute cassette

Order through your local librarian, or send check or money order (no charge for postage or handling) to: Bahá’í Distribution Service 415 LINDEN AVENUE, WILMETTE, IL 60091 TEL. 1-800-323-1880

• Price valid only in the United States

[Page 24]

More presentations of the peace statement

Members of the Spiritual Assembly of Binghamton, New York, present ‘The Promise of World Peace’ to U.S. Rep. Matthew F. McHugh of New York State (center). Pictured with Rep. McHugh are (left to right) Joseph Axelrod, Mary Williams, Roy Steiner (Ithaca), Joseph Noyes, Dorothy Holmlund and Dr. Valerie Perdue. The presentation was made on May 26.

Gov. Harry R. Hughes of Maryland (second from right) accepts a copy of ‘The Promise of World Peace’ and a certificate of appreciation from Bahá’ís (left to right) Dr. H. Elsie Austin, A. Joseph Guffey and Evander Gilmer. The presentation, made on April 17, was coordinated by the Spiritual Assembly of Prince Georges County South.

On June 20, a delegation of Bahá’ís from South Carolina presented a copy of ‘The Promise of World Peace’ to Gov. Richard W. Riley (fourth from left) at the state capitol. Making the presentation were (left to right) Mrs. Helen Thomas, Dr. Roy Jones, Mrs. Jessie Entzminger, Mrs. Afagh Vafai, and Jonathan Hanna.

On January 31, the Bahá’ís of Culver City, California, presented a copy of ‘The Promise of World Peace’ to Mayor Richard M. Alexander (second from left). Sixty-five people attended the presentation ceremony. Shown with the mayor are Bahá’ís (left to right) Truitt White, Dr. Hoda Mahmoudi, Tom Kavelin, Aileen Poehls (Assembly secretary) and Lauren Metcalf (Assembly chairman). (Photo by Massoud Mahmoudi)

Washington State Sen. Philip Tallmadge (center) is given a copy of ‘The Promise of World Peace’ by Bahá’í Nafe Alley (left) and Donald Nelson, members of the Spiritual Assembly of Hi-Central. The presentation was made June 6.

Chicago Alderman Bernard J. Hansen (right) receives a copy of the Universal House of Justice’s peace statement from Bahá’ís (left to right) Ray Frank, Luis Segovia, Dr. Merikh Rowshan and Dr. Claudia Waddaburne.

Our Sacred Obligation National Bahá’í Fund Wilmette, IL 60091

A YEAR WITH THE BAHÁ’ÍS IN INDIA AND BURMA

by Sydney Sprague

The fascinating account of the first Western believer to visit the Bahá’í communities of India, Burma, and Malaysia. In 1904–1905, at the bidding of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Sydney Sprague crossed the Indian subcontinent to teach the Faith and meet with the friends. This is a facsimile reprint of his story, originally published in 1908.

ISBN 0-933770-57-X Retail price: $8.95*, hardcover only

Bahá’í Distribution Service 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Il. 60091 (312) 251-1854 *Price valid only in the United States [Page 25]Last January 30, the Bahá’í Group of Bristol, New Hampshire, presented copies of ‘The Promise of World Peace’ to the town selectmen with copies of the December 1985 issue of The American Bahá’í which detailed the presentation to President Reagan. Pictured are (left to right) Bahá’í Elaine Keniston and selectmen William Phinney, Ned Gordon and Dean Des Roches. The event was preceded by a letter to the editor of the Bristol Enterprise which quoted from the peace statement; a photo of the presentation also appeared in the paper.

On March 7, representatives from several Bahá’í communities in Illinois’ 18th Congressional District presented a copy of ‘The Promise of World Peace’ to U.S. Rep. Robert Michel (center). Making the presentation were Farhang Alai, chairman of the Spiritual Assembly of Peoria, and Juliette Whittaker, also of Peoria. Other communities represented were East Peoria, Washington, Chatham, Pekin and Medina Township.

More than 100 Bahá’ís and their guests were joined by radio, television and newspaper personnel August 10 for a presentation of ‘The Promise of World Peace’ to U.S. Congressman Barney Frank (center) of Massachusetts. The ceremony was arranged by the Spiritual Assembly of Newton. Congressman Frank expressed the opinion that the Bahá’ís, armed with the weapon of the example of their own behavior, are engaged in a fight for decency that is succeeding beyond what many believed possible. Pictured with the Congressman are Bahá’ís (left to right) Grace Miller, Dr. Larry McCullough, Dr. Mehdi Armian and Haleh Armian.

On February 21, Bishop Joseph M. Breitenbeck, head of the Catholic Diocese of Grand Rapids, Michigan, was given a copy of ‘The Promise of World Peace’ by Bahá’í representative Dr. Winifred Eshragh of Grand Rapids at the Diocesan offices. (Photo by Ghebrelul Ghebre)

U.S. Rep. Bruce Morrison (second from right) receives a copy of ‘The Promise of World Peace’ ‎peace ‎ from Bahá’ís representing the Spiritual Assembly of New Haven (left to right) Howard Garey, Paul Khavari, Hedyeh Arjomand and Paul Huening. The presentation was made August 26 in Rep. Morrison’s New Haven office.

Jim Barrows, managing editor of the Las Vegas Sun, accepts a copy of ‘The Promise of World Peace’ from Barrie Bailey Ford, a member of the Bahá’í community of Las Vegas. (Photo by Cynthia Martlock)

‘The Promise of World Peace’ was presented March 18 to Steve Reed (left), the mayor of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, by representatives of the Spiritual Assembly of Harrisburg (left to right) Behzad Zandieh, Carol Zandieh and Marian Dunmire. The mayor, who has been supportive and sympathetic toward the persecuted Bahá’ís in Iran and has twice proclaimed ‘World Peace Day’ in Harrisburg, said he would place the peace statement in a special archives display for peace. On March 27, a copy of the statement was presented to Dauphin County Commissioner Larry Hochendoner. [Page 26]

Bahá’í Justice Society sets second conference

The Bahá’í Legal Society, formed as a result of a conference on “Bahá’ís and the Legal Profession” held in January 1986 at the Louhelen Bahá’í School, will hold its second conference next April 3-5 at the Bahá’í National Center in Wilmette, Illinois.

The conference will focus on “Ethics and the Law” and “Implementing Peace Through International Law: Preparing a Conference of International Jurists to Call for a Meeting of World Political Leaders.”

In addition, the Society will elect officers for its second year of operation and conduct other business.

Over the last nine months the Bahá’í Legal Society has received permission from the National Spiritual Assembly to organize; submitted its proposed charter to the National Assembly; adopted a policy for providing referrals of legal matters from Bahá’í institutions and individual Bahá’ís; prepared a brochure describing the organization; developed a membership and mailing list; presented a booth at the Bahá’í National Convention; made an informal presentation to the Association for Bahá’í Studies’ section on Bahá’ís and the Legal Profession at the ABS Conference in London, Ontario, in August 1986; and presented a booth and two workshops on the legal aspects of implementing peace at the San Francisco Bahá’í Conference, also last August.

The group’s officers have also consulted with the Office of External Affairs about dissemination of the peace statement to organizations within the legal profession. A directory of members is expected to be circulated before the conference in April.

The National Spiritual Assembly recently approved the organization’s charter with several changes, the most important of which involve changing the name of the organization to the Bahá’í Justice Society and providing non-membership affiliation for Bahá’ís outside the U.S.

The Justice Society is now designating individuals and groups to accomplish a number of projects including the following:

1. Publish professional articles in general publications that deal with Bahá’í principles and legal systems.

2. Publish articles in The American Bahá’í relating to law that are of interest to Bahá’ís.

3. Draft suggestions for local Assembly dispute resolutions to be submitted to the National Assembly for approval.

4. Publish and send before the conference a members’ directory.

The Bahá’í Justice Society has already been active in making referrals for Bahá’í institutions and individuals to member lawyers. Since January 1986, five referrals to lawyers for Bahá’í institutions have been made, and responses or referrals for nearly a dozen individual requests have been made.

Requests for referrals should be made to Ted Amsden, Detroit, MI 48243 (phone 313-568-6554).

Anyone who is interested in the promotion of justice and who wishes to attend the conference and to join the Bahá’í Justice Society should send his/her name, address and $45 annual fee to Steven Gonzales, East Lansing, MI 48823. The fee will be reduced or waived in appropriate circumstances upon written request.

Details about the upcoming conference including lodging and ground transportation will be mailed to Society members and anyone else who requests the information.

Pictured are some of the participants in a teacher training workshop sponsored August 22 by the Bahá’í Education Committee of Colorado Springs, Colorado. (Photo by Soheila Afnani)

Principles of Teaching

• Teaching the Faith is the greatest gift of God. It attracts the grace of God and is our first obligation.
• Bahá’u’lláh promises divine assistance to all who arise to teach His Cause.
• There are many ways to teach—as many ways as there are seekers. We can all find some method of teaching that suits our nature and capacity.
• We teach the Cause—not to increase our numbers—but to help connect hearts with Bahá’u’lláh. It is the Holy Spirit, not the teacher, that influences souls.
• Teaching is a process that involves finding and befriending receptive souls, presenting the Message with wisdom, nurturing souls to acceptance of Bahá’u’lláh, and confirming new believers to become active and steadfast Bahá’ís.

Ads

from page 17

...trate spiritual truths. Excellent for personal or community study. Four tapes and some handouts, $24. Write to Reflections, Louhelen Bahá’í School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423, or phone 313-653-5033. VISA or MasterCard accepted.

MISCELLANEOUS

ALL ARE invited to contribute to the fund establishing a scholarship at Haskell Indian Junior College in honor of Marianne Steffes, the first Native American Bahá’í and a graduate of Haskell. Donations, made payable to the Spiritual Assembly of Lawrence, Kansas, and earmarked for the Steffes Scholarship, may be sent to the Assembly at P.O. Box 584, Lawrence, KS 66044.

FOUND: In the men’s restroom at the 11th annual Conference of the Association for Bahá’í Studies in London, Ontario, Canada—a gold necklace. For information, contact Cora Watters, Ridvan Valley, Lynx, OH 45650.

BAHÁ’Í JUSTICE SOCIETY CONFERENCE REGISTRATION

Name _________________________________________________

Address _______________________________________________

Telephone ( ) __________________________________________

Send to Steven Gonzales, _________________ East Lansing, MI 48823 with a check made payable to the “Bahá’í Justice Society” ($20 members, $30 non-members). The extra $10 for non-members will be applied to the membership fee if they join the organization. And upon written request, the registration fee can be waived in appropriate cases. No provision has been made at the conference for children.

On May 18, the Bahá’ís of Durham, North Carolina, sponsored a Children’s Peace Celebration at which children from various segments of the community were asked to give speeches about peace or present performances in music or dance. About 65 children took part, and attendance was good. At the close of the program, the Bahá’ís presented certificates of participation and ‘Wage Peace’ balloons to the children. Newspaper publicity, both before and after the event, was quite favorable—a total of 85 column inches, more than half of which were photos. Free radio and TV announcements were also aired.

Summer positions at National Center

Making plans for the summer yet? Why not spend it at the heart of the Bahá’í activity for this country at the Bahá’í National Center or the House of Worship.

Positions are presently open in maintenance, gardening, drafting, masonry work and painting, as well as in offices at the National Center. Stipends are available to cover living expenses.

If you would be interested, write to the National Youth Committee office today for an application. The address is: National Youth Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

Minnesota conference seeks to identify pressing needs of U.S. Bahá’í community

A conference entitled “Mental and Emotional Well-Being: Drawing Upon the Bahá’í Community in Time of Need” will be held January 31-February 1 at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis.

The conference, sponsored by the Minnesota Bahá’í Institute, is specially designed to identify the needs of the Bahá’í community in regard to mental health, family and marital challenges, emotional stress, addictions and other issues.

The keynote speakers will be Auxiliary Board member Stephen Birkland and Dr. Khalil Khavari, professor of psychology at the University of Wisconsin.

Conference fees are $20 until January 1, $25 until January 15. All registrations must be received by January 15. On receipt of registration fees, a full schedule and materials for advance preparation will be mailed.

No child care is available, and drop-in or one-day participation is discouraged.

Send registrations, correspondence and/or contributions to the Minnesota Bahá’í Institute, P.O. Box 18057, West St. Paul, MN 55118.

Answers to crossword puzzle

ACROSS	DOWN
1. Out	1. Obligation
3. ‘Abdu’l	2. Tse
7. Small	4. Blessed
8. Ear	5. Less
9. Lie	6. Growth
11. Needs	10. In
12. In	13. Teach
14. Sums	15. Psy
15. Persia	16. Sacred
16. St	19. Local
17. Safe	21. Uala (Luau)
18. Bah	23. Poor
20. Due	25. Rich
22. HP
24. Err
26. Oct
27. Only
28. National
29. DC
30. Learn
31. BE

THE SIX YEAR PLAN

1	2	3	4	5	6	7
Carrying the healing message of Bahá’u’lláh to the generality of mankind.	Greater involvement of the Faith in the life of human society.	A worldwide increase in the translation, production, distribution and use of Bahá’í literature.	Further acceleration in the process of the maturation of local and national Bahá’í communities.	Greater attention to universal participation and the spiritual enrichment of individual believers.	A wider extension of Bahá’í education to children and youth, and the strengthening of Bahá’í family life.	The pursuit of Social and Economic Development in well-established Bahá’í communities.

[Page 27]

10 YEARS AGO

Some 400 Bahá’ís in the New York City area attend a conference October 16-17 sponsored by the Continental Board of Counselors at that city's Bahá’í Center.

Among the speakers are the Hand of the Cause of God Zikrul-lah Khadem, Counselor Edna True, and Auxiliary Board members Jane Faily, Thelma Jackson, Albert James and Javidukht Khadem.

The purpose of the gathering is to stimulate teaching activity in New York, one of three states that must launch intensive proclamation efforts during the Five Year Plan....

Meanwhile, teaching efforts in New York are "moving off center" as a result of a unified statewide teaching campaign organized by the state's Regional Teaching Committee, says committee secretary Nancy Mondschein.

"Local Assemblies have stepped up their teaching, and their activities are more focused," she says. "There is greater intensity in the work, and there is more excitement about individual teaching."

Bahá’ís around the country are buying copies of a weekly half-hour program entitled "Bahá’í Perspective—The Jeff Reynolds Show."

The series, which combines talk with popular music, is designed to help proclaim the Faith to youth and young adults....

The U.S. has 26 pioneer posts remaining to be filled, and the International Goals Committee hopes to complete the goal by Rid-ván 1977 through a vigorous recruiting effort.

Janet Rubenstein, secretary of the committee, asks that prospective pioneers give special consideration to St. Helena, Africa, Finland and Bangladesh....

A Bahá’í International Teaching Conference, held October 15-17 in Nairobi, Kenya, is attended by 1,363 believers.

Among those present are four of the Hands of the Cause of God: William Sears, representing the Universal House of Justice; Rahmatu’lláh Muhájir, Enoch Olinga and John Robarts.

Also attending are Counselor Aziz Yazdi of the International Teaching Center in Haifa and 13 other Counselors. The U.S. National Spiritual Assembly is represented by Dr. Dorothy W. Nelson.

The message to the conference from the Universal House of Justice calls on the friends to recognize that "As the forces of darkness in that part of the world wax fiercer, and the problems facing its peoples and tribes become more critical, the believers in that continent must evince greater cohesion, scale loftier heights of heroism and self-sacrifice, and demonstrate higher standards of concerted effort and harmonious development."

The Omaha Indian Reservation at Macy, Nebraska, is opened to the Faith through efforts of the Nebraska District Teaching Committee....

The Bahá’ís of Kansas take part in teaching campaigns in Dodge City and Pittsburg....

Letters

...eastern goal of LaPlat, the western goal of Dupree, and help out on the Standing Rock Reservation.

Housing may be more of a challenge as our friend, Phil Castillo, has returned to Arizona for the winter. We extend to him our warmest love and pray for his return. We also want to thank him for his service to Bahá’u’lláh here among the Lakota Nations.

If anyone is interested in coming to Eagle Butte to help in the "Spirit of the Rose" project, please phone me at 605-964-7340 (evenings).

Please remember that we are isolated, and health insurance is a necessity! And please remember the Lakotas and the "Spirit of the Rose" in your prayers, that through the grace of Bahá’u’lláh the remaining 18 Assemblies will be formed.

Sandra Frazier LeBeau for the Spiritual Assembly of Eagle Butte, South Dakota

Friends must practice unity

To the Editor:

There was an article in the September issue of The American Bahá’í about a Green Acre conference on racism that I thought was interesting, but I was also disturbed by some of the things that were mentioned the article.

The central theme of the Faith is the oneness and unity of the entire human race; therefore, no one should ever be excluded.

It is of the utmost importance that every Bahá’í carefully examine his or her attitude toward people of different races. We as Bahá’ís must constantly strive to practice oneness and unity of the entire human race.

We must also develop close and lasting friendships with those of every race.

I've seen some Bahá’ís who probably don't have even one friend of a different race. How can we teach the world the Faith if we don't practice real love and unity among ourselves?

Bahá’ís must make every effort to associate in close, loving friendship with racial minorities. This is the only way that barriers between the races can be broken down.

Also, we must encourage more interracial marriages within the Bahá’í community to demonstrate to the rest of the world that Bahá’ís really do practice race unity and the oneness of mankind.

I hope that in the near future there will be no more prejudices of any kind, especially among the Bahá’ís.

Sharon Lewis Cincinnati, Ohio

Cora Schulte, 81, long-time member of Assembly in Topeka

Cora Schulte, who served as a member of the Spiritual Assembly of Topeka, Kansas, for three decades, died on her 81st birthday October 10.

Mrs. Schulte, who became a Bahá’í in July 1939, was at various times treasurer and vice-chairman of the Topeka Assembly and was its chairman for eight years.

She served also on the Regional Teaching Committee and in 1950 was a delegate to the Bahá’í National Convention.

She and her husband, Art, who died three years ago, traveled widely throughout the Midwest to teach the Faith, while at home they conducted classes, gave talks, arranged meetings and were hosts to countless Bahá’í activities.

Politics are all-pervasive

To the Editor:

Many times I have read that "Bahá’ís should not be involved in politics," a phrase too broadly used and too often generalized.

It is my understanding that as a Bahá’í, one should not become involved in "partisan" politics, i.e., Democrats vs. Republicans, and so on.

It should be obvious to anyone who is alive and breathing that hardly a day goes by that politics (the art of dialogue, discussion, manipulation, even romance) does not come into play.

There is a great deal of difference between "partisan" and the term "political." As Bahá’ís, it is essential that we know and understand politics, and that we use that knowledge in our everyday lives to preserve the Faith as well as elect governing bodies throughout the world.

It seems to me that in reading the writings of Shoghi Effendi, one cannot deny that he was well-versed in the art of politics and was known to have read every available newspaper daily to ascertain the "political temperament" of the world at large.

According to Webster's 9th New Collegiate Dictionary, the word "politic/political" is described as follows: "characterized by shrewdness in managing, contriving, or dealing; sagacious in promoting a policy; shrewdly tactful."

The word "partisan" is defined as "a firm adherent to a party, faction, cause or person; esp. one exhibiting blind, prejudiced, and unreasoning allegiance. ..."

I especially like the term "shrewdly tactful." It has a lovely ring to it, denoting one's utmost effort to use diplomacy—an art used in its best sense by the most respected members of the Faith, not to mention ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and Shoghi Effendi.

To be political is to keep an open mind, to weigh all issues and then make an educated decision. Holding a Bahá’í/Marxist "dialogue" is merely a way of opening the minds to other views, other ways to promote understanding.

It is important to see what one would not prefer in order to make the right decision as to what is good.

In essence, what I have done by writing this is to perform a political act through the written word, or dialogue. Perhaps not too "shrewdly tactful," but hopefully succinct.

Ruie Mullins Burbank, California

Dispelling alcoholism's myths

To the Editor:

There appears to be a fundamental lack of knowledge in the Bahá’í community about drug abuse.

Do you believe a soul can recognize Bahá’u’lláh, be a declared Bahá’í, and still be an alcoholic, drug addict, or both?

If your answer is "no," then you need help.

I have been a declared Bahá’í for 30 years; I have been an alcoholic for 35 years. Today I am a "recovering alcoholic," and will be until the day I die.

There are some myths about alcoholism that should be dispelled if we are going to teach the Faith effectively.

People all over the world suffer from this deadly disease. We have to arm ourselves with the truth about all drugs in our society.

Alcohol happens to be legal, but this does not make it any less destructive than illegal drugs. We can't afford to be smug or content thinking Bahá’ís and their families are immune to this disease.

Alcoholics and addicts are lonely people. To support their "habit," they often have to lie, in word and deed. This conflict causes tremendous pain and suffering.

They are in a trap. Some of the myths concerning drug abuse are that it is caused by a lack of will power, character or intelligence, and that the consequences of using drugs (jail, insanity, etc.) will serve as a deterrent.

My wife is a Bahá’í and a recovering alcoholic/addict. We are blessed with an understanding few people share.

We prayerfully suggest that you read "The Big Book of AA" and attend several "open meetings." There are people in those rooms who are only beginning to glimpse spiritual awareness. You can help them.

The Guardian said we should "bridge the gap" when teaching the Faith. If you need a Bahá’í friend, please feel free to write to me.

Bob Dix Brimmer P.O. Box 167 Lake Hughes, California

A way to back human rights

To the Editor:

Many Bahá’í communities must be looking for ways to support human rights. I would like to suggest one: participation in Amnesty International's Inter-Religious Urgent Action Network.

Amnesty International is a non-political organization that has worked since 1961 to promote human rights worldwide.

Its specific goals are the release of prisoners of conscience (people imprisoned for reasons of race, religious or political beliefs, etc., who have not used or advocated violence); humane treatment and fair trials for prisoners everywhere; and the abolition of torture and execution.

Their techniques include meticulously accurate research into human rights abuses; publicizing violations; meeting with government agents; and the grassroots work of participants everywhere who send letters, cards and telegrams on behalf of individual prisoners to government officials.

The pressure of such letters and telegrams can be quite effective, as shown by the testimony of many former prisoners.

I feel that this effort should be of special interest to Bahá’ís, not only because AI has made efforts to help our fellow believers in Iran, but because of the organization's strict nonpartisanship.

Human rights violations occur in nations of widely differing ideologies and political alignments. Amnesty International works impartially for victims everywhere.

We Bahá’ís, saddened by the persecutions in Iran, often feel helpless as to what we can do. Besides our direct teaching and proclamation efforts, we can translate our concern into a global effort for compassion and justice.

Groups that take part in AI's Inter-Religious Urgent Action Network receive a monthly mailing about a prisoner of conscience or some other human rights violation, with instructions about where to write to officials and what questions one might ask.

This is a meaningful contribution that can be made from very small resources of numbers, time and money.

For details, contact Amnesty International, Urgent Action Office, P.O. Box 1270, Nederland, CO 80466, or phone 303-440-0913.

Chris McNett Orange, Virginia

Marion Merrell, served as bookstore manager at Louhelen School

Mrs. Marion Merrell, who served for many years as bookstore manager at the Louhelen Bahá’í School, died October 4.

Her steadfast, capable and selfless services lent stability to the school and endeared her to the friends, to whom she distributed thousands of books over the years.

Mrs. Merrell's husband, Herb, who died a few years ago, was custodian of the school, and the Merrells lived on campus while it was closed.

Any Bahá’í can give to the Fund—adult or child National Bahá’í Fund Wilmette, IL 60091

IN MEMORIAM

John Anderson La Grange, IL Date Unknown

Ella Behl Quakertown, PA February 17, 1986

Steven Buthe May 10, 1986 Monterey, VA

Paula Durr Birmingham, AL 1985

Chrystabell Ekelbrett Kalispell, MT January 1985

Carl Gerwin Hutchinson, KS August 29, 1986

Madeleine Humbert N. Miami, FL October 7, 1986

Georgessa Hunter Sacramento, CA May 9, 1986

Marion Merrell Flint, MI Date Unknown

Dr. Manoo Moyyad Ft. Lauderdale, FL September 22, 1986

William Poehlman Osseo, WI September 7, 1986

Mohammad Rouhani-Farid Riverside, CA October 22, 1986

Cora Schulte Topeka, KS October 10, 1986

Susan B. Smith Cambridge, MA August 1986

Jessie Walthier Northampton, MA October 1, 1986

Emma Lee Wypler Huntington, NY October 15, 1986 [Page 28]

Anello

And our administrative order should be sustaining that effort. The Guardian, in The Promised Day Is Come, speaks of three false gods, one of which, he says, is nationalism. Do you know how we protect ourselves from this false god of nationalism? By creating and maintaining a world-embracing vision.

And I think that just as nationalism affects national and political bodies, it can also affect our Faith. We have to have a world-embracing vision; otherwise we lose perspective. We become ingrown.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá says that America's spiritual sovereignty and glory depend upon the waves of spirituality that it sends throughout the world. The Guardian explains these waves as being waves of pioneers.

Now, if we are not sending out pioneers, we are not sending out waves of spirituality, and our spiritual sovereignty is in jeopardy. The facts are that we have 1,350 pioneers from America; five years ago we had 1,550. So we have lost 200 pioneers in the field; 200 have come home and we have not replaced them.

You don't know what 200 pioneers mean to these Third World countries! You have no idea the effect even one pioneer has!

Bahá’u’lláh said, "Christ came to make thee fishermen of men; I have come to make thee fishermen of nations." Going to these countries and conquering them in the Name of Bahá’u’lláh is what this is all about.

I once asked Mr. Khamsi, who is a Counselor at the World Center, what is the quality most needed to be an effective pioneer. The most important quality, he said, is obedience: "Through obedience an ignorant one can become wise, a coward can become heroic."

On another occasion I had the opportunity to be with the Hand of the Cause of God Dr. Muhájir, and to check Mr. Khamsi's response I asked him the same question. "Obedience," he replied.

I remember when I was pioneering in Puerto Rico, Enoch Olinga visited us and talked about the Hand of the Cause Mr. Banani. He was praising him, saying the Guardian had called him "the conqueror of Africa," and said that entire continent would be under the protection of Mr. Banani’s soul for all eternity.

Then Mr. Olinga said, "Do you know how the Hand of the Cause Mr. Banani conquered Africa? It was through his obedience to the Guardian."

What is obedience—that instant, exact and complete obedience that moves mountains, that conquers continents?

The Guardian said that obedience is another word for implicit faith. It is the outward expression of an inward condition of faith.

There is a lovely quote by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá that I think is a little strong, but it is a good tonic. It speaks of sacrifice:

"Sacrifice of life is of two kinds. To be killed for the Cause is not so difficult as to live for it in absolute obedience to the commands of God.

"To attain to the condition of Mirza ‘Abu’l-Fadl who cared for nothing in this world save to write something for the Cause that would be of benefit, or like Mirza Hadar-’Alí who cared not for money, clothes or even food, but only to teach someone something about the Kingdom, is real attainment to the plane of sacrifice.

"And without attaining this condition, all efforts are without any final result. One who cares for love for husband, wife or children more than for the Cause of God, has not attained."

When I became a Bahá’í, my Bahá’í teacher was getting ready to pioneer. He pioneered three months after he taught me the Faith, so he hurried to deepen me. I was born into the Faith thinking that pioneering is what you have to do. Prepare yourself as quickly as you could, then go. And that's exactly what I did. I finished school and went pioneering.

One of the gifts of pioneering, one of the bounties of God, is a condition I call "consciousness of the dependence on God," consciousness of your dependence on Bahá’u’lláh for everything. It is a blessed state. You don't depend anymore on your credit card, or your job, or your title. You are not dependent on these things because you know they are nothing. They are ashes and dust.

Instead, you are dependent on the Source of all power, the Source of all glory, the Source of all majesty, the Source of all goodness and love. You are dependent on Bahá’u’lláh Himself. And you feel so secure. You feel there is nothing that can hurt you. You are not afraid anymore. You are not afraid to take the step of faith.

Like Rúhíyyih Khánum says in her little poem:

Faith is walking where there is no path, seeing where there is no light, breathing where there is no air.

You are no longer afraid to go anywhere and do whatever the Faith needs you to do.

Ohio arts magazine honors Bahá’í

Gerald T. Johnson, a Bahá’í who is director of the Cleveland (Ohio) Children's Museum, received an Honorable Mention from Northern Ohio Live, an arts and entertainment magazine, in its 1985-86 Awards of Achievement program which recognizes individuals and institutions that have made a special contribution to life in northern Ohio.

Besides overseeing the day-to-day operation of the CCM, Mr. Johnson, a musician and songwriter, uses music as a vehicle of instruction in a variety of interactive children's programs.

The song "Hands on Children," which he co-authored with Susan Engle, has been used to introduce the purpose and concept of the first children's museum in northern Ohio.

Mr. Johnson, who serves as vice-chairman of the Spiritual Assembly of Cleveland Heights, teaches children Bahá’í principles through the Crimson Ark Bahá’í School music program.

Before moving to Cleveland in January 1985, Mr. Johnson served as an assistant to Auxiliary Board member Khalil Khavari and was a member of the Spiritual Assembly of Shorewood, Wisconsin.

Weeden

at the port of Haifa from Italy. The story of these exciting, difficult and dangerous days is recorded in part in The Priceless Pearl by the Hand of the Cause of God Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum.

Ben Weeden photographed construction of the Shrine as it progressed and prepared written reports which appeared in the U.S. Bahá’í News and in The Bahá’í World, Volume XI (1946-50).

In 1951, in ill health, Mr. Weeden returned to the U.S., and was joined there by his wife the following January.

They were asked by the Guardian to visit as many Bahá’í communities as possible to tell them of their experiences at the World Center. The tour covered more than 30,000 miles and took them to some 75 Bahá’í communities in 48 states.

The Guardian named the Weedens Knights of Bahá’u’lláh when they pioneered in October 1953 to Antigua, British West Indies, where they remained until Mr. Weeden's declining health again forced them to return to the States.

After a period of rest, Mr. Weeden resumed his active Bahá’í service in New Hampshire until his death on April 14, 1970. On learning of his passing, the Universal House of Justice cabled his wife, Gladys:

"Extend loving sympathy passing dear husband Ben. His devoted labors World Centre service beloved Guardian and pioneer activities Crusade winning accolade Knight Bahá’u’lláh well remembered.... Supplicating Holy Threshold progress his soul Abhá Kingdom. Assurance loving prayers your behalf."

If you can't pioneer—deputize!

very lives are offered in His path. For my part, as a humble representative of the Cradle of the Faith, from that dark corner of the world, I am very grateful that I have had the bounty to raise my voice on behalf of the Bahá’ís in Iran in this historic conference, in this blessed state from which ‘Abdu’l-Bahá predicted the call for peace would originate.

The Bahá’ís of Iran are suffering day and night and have from the beginning of this Revelation offered their lives that this Faith may emerge from obscurity. Now, in the midst of their agony, they can be succored by hearing of the astounding victories of the Faith throughout the world.

Friends! Do you not behold the presence of our beloved Master, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, amongst us? Can you not see His overwhelmingly loving and smiling countenance? Do you not feel His magnetic personality, His gentle demeanor, His undoubted pleasure as He witnesses the fulfillment of His predictions? Friends! There is no doubt; He is with us!

"Basha, ta sobheh dowlatash bedamad!" "Wait, this is only the break of dawn, only the beginning!" "Een hameh avazha az shah bovad!" "All these melodies descend from the King of Glory!"

Thank you, my beloved Shoghi Effendi! Thank you, that you planned for me, your humble servant, to witness all these victories and the glory of this historic occasion!