The American Bahá’í/Volume 17/Issue 3/Text

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[Page 1]On November 18, the eve of the Reagan/Gorbachev Summit Conference, Bahá’ís in the Oklahoma City area joined with members of other religions in a 'Summit Inter-Faith Worship Service.' Mrs. Iran 'The real treasury of man is his knowledge.'-Bahá’u’lláh Toosi spoke about the Bahá’í outlook on peace, and Bahá’ís were asked to host 30 minutes of the worship service by offering prayers. Pictured (foreground) is one of the Bahá’í children at the service, Jimmy Busby of The Village, Oklahoma. (Photo from the November 19, 1985, issue of The Daily Oklahoman. Copyright © 1985, The Oklahoma Publishing Co.)

The Hand of the Cause of God William Sears (left) receives a 'Fireside Teaching Doll' courtesy of Fannie Jude of Huntsville, Alabama, from Counsellor Robert Harris.

National Assembly responds to advice

The following is a summary of the National Spiritual Assembly's responses to recommendations by the delegates at the 1985 Bahá’í National Convention. Also included are responses to some of the suggestions made.

1. Publish 12 lesson plan books or textbooks on all aspects of the Faith for grades 1-12.

Response: The National Teaching Committee is developing materials for a sequenced Bahá’í curriculum for children that will accommodate the cultural and social diversity of our national community. In addition, many resources are presently available to help the friends in developing their own lesson plans.

2. Consider appointing a national committee on peace.

Response: This is under consideration by the National Spiritual Assembly.

3. Publish successful models of teaching in The American Bahá’í in enough detail that other communities will consider trying similar methods in their own area.

Response: In preparing articles for The American Bahá’í from the reports it receives, the National Teaching Committee does try to include detailed information so that this is possible.

4. Adopt the budget as proposed by the National Spiritual Assembly.

5. Adopt a "secret" goal of $9 million.

Response: The proposed budget of $8.3 million was adopted. The National Assembly did not establish.

REGULAR FEATURES

Viewpoint 2 Publishing Trust 15 Letters 3 Classifieds 16-17 The Funds 5 Spanish 18 IGC: Pioneering 6 Persian/American 19-21 Youth News 7 United Nations 22 Education 8-9 The Media 23 Teaching 10-11 Native Americans 25 Distribution Service 14 In Memoriam 27

The American Bahá’í (USPS 042-430) is published monthly by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States, 536 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, IL 60091. Postmaster: Send address changes to the Office of Membership and Records, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091: Editor: Jack Bowers. Associate editor: Laura E. Hildreth. The American Bahá’í welcomes news, letters and other items of interest from individuals and the various institutions of the Faith. Articles should be written in a clear and concise manner; color or black and white glossy photographs should be included whenever possible. Please address all materials to The Editor, The American Bahá’í, Wilmette, IL 60091. Copyright 1986 by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States. World rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A.

Mr. Sears’ challenge: 20,000 contributions to Fund in 20 days

A third "smashing victory" for the Faith before the end of the Seven Year Plan—20,000 contributions to the National Bahá’í Fund in 20 days—is the latest challenge to the American Bahá’í community from the Hand of the Cause of God William Sears.

During the month of the Fast and Naw-Rúz, Mr. Sears said in a tape-recorded message for the Feast of Mulk, Bahá’ís throughout the country "will demonstrate their love for the Faith" by offering continuous outpourings to the National Fund.

He is calling on us, he said, "to perform the 'hat trick,' as they say in hockey—three great victories in a row.

"For us together," said Mr. Sears," it's a breeze. In fact, this one is in the bag," he added, recalling with confidence and enthusiasm two other recent victories for the Cause of God—the construction of WLGI Radio and the fireside teaching campaign.

"The Bahá’í Fund," Mr. Sears asserted, "is the life-blood of the planet. And the condition of the Fund is a measure of our Faith."

The plan he has set forth for the period of the Fast, he said, "is quite simple and entirely within our capacity."

Bahá’ís arise, carry ‘Promise’ throughout U.S.

The Bahá’í National Center continues to receive exciting reports about activities associated with the presentation of "The Promise of World Peace" to organizations and individuals throughout the country.

Among the more recent reports are these:

• The Bahá’ís at Whitman College, Washington, presented a lecture series about the Bahá’í Faith, the promise of peace, and the role of women in helping to achieve it. Among the results was a half-page article in the Walla Walla Union Bulletin.

In Webster, New York, the Bahá’ís sent the peace statement to all local clergy, choosing to present it first to churches because Bahá’u’lláh said that religion is "the greatest of all means for the establishment of order in the world." The Bahá’ís also asked for prayers for religious unity on January 19, World Religion Day.

In Los Altos, California, Bahá’ís participated in a library exhibit on world peace.

In Fenton, Missouri, a Bahá’í negotiated for space for a "non-religious" peace exhibit by volunteering to design and set it up. The display will feature books available at the library related to the major themes of the House of Justice's peace statement.

The Bahá’ís of Gray, Maine, are presenting a lecture series on "Facets of Global Peace." First in the series is a program on "Racism: An Obstacle to Planetary Stability."

In Jamison, Pennsylvania, 250 Bahá’ís gathered at Camp Neumann for a winter institute on peace. The seven- to 10-year-olds wrote a prayer for peace that was printed in the Doylestown Intelligencer.

In Decatur, Illinois, "The Promise of World Peace" was presented January 6 to members of the city council during its monthly meeting. Mayor Gary Anderson of Decatur proclaimed 1986 "The Year of Peace" in Decatur. The proclamation offered "the hope that all our citizens will strive to eliminate the barriers to peace found within our own com-

Vendors are invited to apply for space at peace conference

The planning committee for the Bahá’í International Peace Conference to be held August 28-31 in San Francisco, California, is inviting applications for vendors who wish to sell merchandise at the conference.

Groups or organizations interested in selling items should write to Mrs. Carol Yetken, Conference Coordinator, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. Applications will be accepted through May 15.

"Space for vendors will be limited," says Mrs. Yetken. "When we receive a written request from a potential vendor we'll send him an application and the guidelines for vendors that have been established by the planning committee."

Requests for applications should be marked "Peace Conference Vendor Application" on the outside of the envelope. [Page 2]

IRONY SIDE

HE’S COMING SOON!! HE THAT HATH AN EAR... EXCUSE ME SIR, HE’S ALREADY RETURNED.

HE’S COMING SOON!! THE STARS WILL FALL & THE TRUMPETS WILL SOUND!! HIS NAME WAS BAHÁ’U’LLÁH.

HE’S COMING SOON!! THE SUN WILL BE BLOTTED OUT! HE GAVE US A WORKABLE PLAN FOR WORLD PEACE.

WILY, THAT’S UNREALISTIC — YOUNG MAN!

HE’S COMING SOON! THE DEAD WILL BE RAISED!!

by Darian Smith, Apex, North Carolina

World Order worth more than gold

This month’s column, “A Comment on the National Fund,” was written by Maya K. Bohnhoff of Grass Valley, California.

Recently I was contacted by the National Spiritual Assembly and asked to speak to the individual believers in this area about the urgent needs of the National Fund.

The request led me to do some serious thinking, which in turn led me to write down my thoughts.

As you know, the National Fund is responsible for paying the bills for our National Center, its projected and realized satellite organizations (home for the aged, hospital, etc.), our lovely House of Worship, and all the programs and activities we are so privileged to take part in.

Most important, the Fund is responsible for the monies put into teaching the Faith.

The Faith is the hope of the world. It is the only viable future for the children of the world. Not just those children “over there”—the ones who are starving to death in Ethiopia, the ones ravaged by war in Nicaragua or Pakistan, the ones “accidentally” killed in Beirut, the ones torn from their Bahá’í parents in Iran, the ones denied their God-given rights in South Africa, the ones savaged by the street environment in New York and other large American cities, or even the ones who are abused by their own families right next door.

No, the Faith is the last hope of our children—yours and mine. It is to that future, to that last hope, that our money goes when we give to the Fund.

Until the principles taught by Bahá’u’lláh have been woven into the very fabric of society at every level—but most important, at its most fundamental levels: the individual and family—there will always be huge grain reserves and starving children, the merest hope of peace and the awesome threat of imminent global or local war, diverse and fragmented groups of concerned people and a general apathy, people who care and governments that do not, parents lovingly raising their children and adolescents who take their own lives in desperation.

Our contributions to the National Fund give this struggling community the material means to spread the principles of the Faith far and wide.

They need not be large contributions; we all know that. We all know that the principle of universal participation is the most important element of our physical contribution to the Administrative Order.

A dollar each month from every registered Bahá’í in the U.S. would wipe out our debts and lay the foundation for progress that would not only benefit the Bahá’í institutions but would allow the American community to become more actively involved in an outreach to every man, woman and child in this country.

A mere dollar! And if a dollar is out of reach, send a quarter, a dime, a nickel or even a penny. The fact that you give is all important.

And our goal—to bring more of humanity under the banner of the Cause of God—is it a materialistic goal? A “numbers game”? Hardly—although I’ve heard that said and used as an excuse not to “trust” our elected bodies with our hard-earned cash.

I can’t help but feel that this kind of sentiment is not only defeating to the Faith, but short-sighted and, frankly, superficial.

This Faith, given to us by a loving Creator, is the only way to provide, for future generations, a world free from fear—without desperation, apathy, hatred, confusion, futility.

We spend our money on things for our children—toys that become broken, clothes that are outworn, belongings that are discarded as the child grows to adulthood. Can we not afford to spend a little on the quality of their future?

Consider this: the money we cherish so dearly—and indeed the things we buy with it—are not ours. Everything we “possess” is merely loaned to us by our Creator for the duration of our stay here.

We borrow the money, we use it, we die, and the money is no longer ours. It still belongs to God and is loaned to someone else—inherited, perhaps, by our children.

Spiritual well-being, the love of God—these are the things we can truly possess. These are the things that cannot be taken from us.

We can pass these things along to our children, and in doing so provide them with the tools to continue to forge a world that is a secure, safe and sane place in which to live.

It won’t come about through prayer alone. Nor through meditation. Nor charitable works. Nor good intentions. Nor wishful thinking. Nor donations to charitable organizations whose remedy affects only one symptom or another.

To make it come about, we must give our prayers, our thoughts, our energies, our dreams, our best wishes, and our material wealth.

After all, we are only returning to God a small part of what He has so generously given us. He’s not asking for all, only a portion.

And in return, He has promised us a very great thing—the Kingdom of God on earth, a day that will not be followed by night, the Most Great Peace.

Can’t we afford to spend a little on that?

Shown with their Louis G. Gregory Awards for Service to Humanity are Dr. H. Elsie Austin (center) of Silver Spring, Maryland, the first Bahá’í to receive the award, and Dr. Elaine Brown of Philadelphia. The awards were presented on behalf of the National Spiritual Assembly at a ceremony last May 5 in Glenside, Pennsylvania, by Steven Barnes of Washington, D.C. Seated behind Mr. Barnes and the recipients are members of Philadelphia’s ‘Singing City’ chorus, which Dr. Brown founded 37 years ago.

National Assembly’s Louis Gregory Awards given to Drs. Austin, Brown

The Louis G. Gregory Awards for Service to Humanity were presented last May 5 on behalf of the National Spiritual Assembly to Dr. H. Elsie Austin of Silver Spring, Maryland, and Dr. Elaine Brown of Philadelphia.

The awards program in Glenside, Pennsylvania, entitled “To Move the World” and attended by nearly 200 people, about half of whom were not Bahá’ís, was arranged by the Spiritual Assembly of Cheltenham Township, Pennsylvania.

Dr. Austin gave an address on the achievements and contributions to humanity of the Hand of the Cause of God Louis Gregory, for whom the award is named.

After the awards were presented on behalf of the National Assembly by Steven Barnes of Washington, D.C., Dr. Brown led a select group from Philadelphia’s “Singing City” Choir, which she founded 37 years ago, in concert.

The Louis Gregory Awards, established by the National Spiritual Assembly in 1968, were designed and constructed by Vernon Voelz, a noted American sculptor from Sarasota, Florida, who graciously came out of partial retirement to make the awards for this occasion.

Dr. Austin, a lecturer, author and teacher with a background in human relations and law, has traveled all over the world as a volunteer and as an official representative of various national and international organizations. While with the U.S. State Department, she worked with women’s organizations in 13 African countries.

The first black woman graduate of the University of Cincinnati’s College of Law, Dr. Austin was also the first black woman to serve as an Assistant Attorney General

See AWARDS page 17 [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.

To the Editor:

Do Assemblies consult often and in depth on the cost-effectiveness of the hard-earned dollars they spend?

Shoghi Effendi's management of the properties on Mount Carmel deserves careful study and emulation.

We have heard Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum speak of how the Guardian would stand in the rain and cold for up to 10 hours in order to most effectively supervise operations.

On one occasion he asked for estimates for building a service road related to the construction work on the International Archives Building. An American known to all of us brought in a bid which the Guardian found too high. He asked Muhammad Bahá’í, a collateral descendant of Bahá’u’lláh, to look into the situation, and the result was that the road was built for perhaps a tenth the original bid.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá provided us with excellent examples of superior financial management when He acquired properties near the southern end of the Lake of Galilee, lands that were later exchanged for properties in the precincts of the Most Holy Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh. He advised the Bahá’ís in Adasiyyih to plant banana trees, and they did so to their extreme economic benefit.

We have great and unused managerial expertise in the Faith. Perhaps the National Assembly should invite an expert to produce criteria on the optimal allocation of our limited resources. Local Assemblies could benefit greatly from such guidelines which should lead to profitable consultation.

The counsel of Jesus that one should calculate the cost of building a house before erecting it lest one become the laughingstock of the neighborhood may have applications for teaching and other projects.

The children of Bahá should be wiser in their day and generation than the children of this world. Assemblies can provide fascinating case studies, revealing a host of do's and don'ts.

Robert L. Gulick Jr. Glendale, Arizona

To the Editor:

I recently arrived for a three-month stay at the Amoz Gibson Project and am overwhelmed by the need for long-term people here.

It's wonderful to have people coming for a week or two. But in only two days I've seen the great importance of personal relationships with seekers and new Bahá’ís.

In two days I've spoken to six people who have said, "Will you come again tomorrow?" Unfortunately, this is simply not possible. The demands of supervising Feasts for 19 communities (with a half-hour drive to each), organizing the election of new Assemblies (which cannot be done simply by calling a group meeting), etc., takes so much time.

Think about how you came into the Faith. How would you have progressed if you had contact with only one Bahá’í (and a different one at that) once every two or three months?

We're all aware of the reasons for not being able to pioneer: no money, family responsibilities, job, etc. But if you can't go, remember that only $35 a week is needed to deputize a pioneer. Perhaps groups of friends could deputize someone together. The AGP would appreciate a commitment of one year's time.

If deputees can't come for that long, come anyway! Once you're there you won't be able to leave. Yes, it's not always possible to go pioneering, but how wonderful it is to be able to tell ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, "I couldn't go, but I saw to it that someone else did."

Write to the Amoz Gibson Project, P.O. Box 508, St. Francis, SD 57572, or phone 605-747-2302.

Devon Matsumoto St. Francis, South Dakota

To the Editor:

You printed a letter (November) from Thomas F. Armistead about the peace movement "Beyond War," which, he wrote, "shares the same goals, motivations and methods" as the Bahá’ís.

We are encouraged to work with other groups that are working for the same things we are. Is there a way we can work with them besides telling people about them?

I wrote to Creative Initiative, Palo Alto, CA 94301, for information and liked their response.

Carolyn des Granges Roxbury, Massachusetts

To the Editor:

Since anyone who read J.F. Strain's letter (September) may have been left with the impression that John Solarz must give his permission or receive royalties for the use of the "Love That Child" logo, the following facts should be presented.

"Love That Child" was created by me for the National Spiritual Assembly under the direction of the National Information Committee during my tenure as National Information Officer from August 1978-June 1979. The objective was to create a multi-media public awareness campaign for the UN's International Year of the Child.

The "Love That Child" theme and all copy were created by me and approved by the National Information Committee. It was decided that all the materials should be produced and distributed by the Bahá’í Publishing Trust.

Dr. Betty Fisher, general editor of the Trust, and I coordinated the production of all the print materials—brochures, ad slicks, posters, bookmarks and so on, and the reproduction of all the audio-visual materials.

John Solarz was employed by the Publishing Trust at that time as an artist and designer. He was asked to design a logo for the campaign, which he did, and for which he was paid.

The "Love That Child" brochure has printed on its cover "Copyright 1979 by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States, Wilmette, IL 60091; All Rights Reserved."

It would seem to me that this designation on a brochure published by the Trust settles once and for all the issue of who owns the "Love That Child" copyright. Also, ad slicks carrying the logo were distributed through the Trust, and these were either purchased or mailed free (I can't remember which), so it would seem that any Spiritual Assembly or individual would need only to ask permission from the National Spiritual Assembly for use of that logo. Part of the purpose of obtaining copyrights is to protect the Faith from use of its Sacred Writings and any other of its published materials by unauthorized groups or individuals.

While Dr. Fisher, Mr. Solarz and I were all paid for the work we did on the "Love That Child" campaign, a number of Bahá’ís made enormous contributions of time, resources and considerable talents to make the campaign the success that it was, among them:

Donna Kime, who wrote the "Love That Child" theme song and donated the use of her recording studio for production of the song and audio announcements.

Mark Sadan and Kirk Smallman of Kiva Productions, who donated their time and talent to provide film for TV spots and other audio-visual productions.

Kevin Schuler, who took the well-known photo of the little black boy and white girl with their arms around each other, and contributed other photos for ad slicks.

Kurt Hein, who edited the brochure and gave much-needed suggestions concerning its content.

The National Spiritual Assembly and its employees, who provided the much-needed support and encouragement for a project of such magnitude to be undertaken.

And of course, Bahá’ís the world over who purchased the materials and used them to proclaim the Faith so that the time and expense invested were not in vain.

It was an honor and a privilege for me to have been able to serve the National Assembly as National Information Officer, and to have had the opportunity to create the "Love That Child" campaign. It certainly was a year to remember.

Susan Lewis St. Thomas, Virgin Islands

To the Editor:

I believe that not enough emphasis is made, locally or nationally, to encourage attendance at Bahá’í summer schools by everyone regardless of age.

For the past six years, Wisconsin has had a Bahá’í summer school. Everyone who has attended has given the school committee every indication that the school far exceeded their expectation, and most of them return year after year.

The facilities, food, courses for adults and children, recreational activities, close association with other Bahá’ís, and efficiency of scheduling all make the Wisconsin summer school one of the best in the Midwest—and, the committee feels, one of the best in the country.

Imagine five days in a total Bahá’í atmosphere with no outside world influences! It's an experience every family and every adult and child should have at least once a year.

Please place next July 21-25 on your calendar for 1986 and give yourself a glimpse of the future! The name of the school is Camp Byron. It's in Brownsville, Wisconsin, a few miles south and west of Fond du Lac.

Oops! I almost forgot an important fact: the cost! The four nights' lodging, four breakfasts, five lunches, four suppers, registration, all materials and classes, and the recreational facilities which include a swimming pool and nature trails, has in the past cost only $90 for adults, $40 for children ages 5-9, and was free for children under age five.

The committee hasn't set the prices for 1986 yet, but keeps the fees as low as possible based on expected attendance.

Please plan on joining your fellow Bahá’ís and their families in Wisconsin next July.

Robert B. Amerson Waukesha, Wisconsin

To the Editor:

Recently, the Dallas-Fort Worth (Texas) Metroplex Bahá’ís (we have about 30 Assemblies and Groups in the area) have been working closely with and supporting United Nations Association (UNA) activities and events.

We cooperated with them on a very successful United Nations Day program October 24 and are planning an even more extensive public program with them on Human Rights Day, December 10.

A number of individuals in our area have joined or were planning to join the Dallas UNA. Then we, in discussions among ourselves, concluded that it would be much more productive to join as Assemblies or Groups, allowing much more flexibility. We are encouraging all the Bahá’í communities in our area to do this.

In discussing this with the U.S. United Nations office in New York, I was made aware that not many Bahá’í Assemblies or Groups have done this. The annual membership fee in Dallas is $35.

Since Bahá’ís and Bahá’í communities have been cooperating with UNAs around the world for these past 37 years, this would seem to be a way in which to solidify and further coordinate Bahá’í United Nations activities.

Dick Suhm Public Affairs Officer Dallas, Texas

To the Editor:

I was happy to read the letter from Carol Walborn (December). It brings some needed illumination to matters in the Faith that are not usually known because of confidentiality.

At a time when the Bahá’í world is being swept by fresh winds of the peace statement and the message on involvement in social and economic development from the House of Justice, it is good to examine these issues and to encourage a dialogue about them.

Recently our Assembly was pressured by some community members to exercise its duty to be more strict about the laws. I was disturbed by this, and it led me to much soul-searching about the role of Assemblies in relation to the moral laws of the Faith.

First, I don't believe that anyone has ever been able to dictate morality to any other person. This can only lead to estrangement or hypocrisy, not true spiritual growth.

To me, virtue is a state of being, a spiritual quality to be inspired, not forced. It has to come from an inner decision, an inner determination, or it is a fraud.

If we abdicate our moral decisions to any group of people, we become dependent children again. I don't mean by this that an Assembly cannot play an active role in communicating the principles and being a source of inspiration

See LETTERS page 27

New from George Ronald, Publisher

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ONCE TO EVERY MAN & NATION Stories about becoming a Bahá’í Edited by RANDE & STEVEN GOTTLIEB

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Order through your local librarian, or send check or money order (including 10% for postage and handling, minimum $1.50) to: Bahá’í Distribution Service, 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091 [Page 4]

AUNT FLY’S HELPFUL HINTS

‘FAST’ FOODS By Fly A. Wayholm

With half of the Old World Order seemingly obsessed with dieting during these winter months, it’s time we ‎Bahá’í’s Bahá’ís‎ also turned our attention to our diet.

A life of hurry and rush doesn’t leave much time for “spiritual nutrients” either. If it’s a quick breakfast of coffee and juice, a few fries and chicken nuggets for lunch, and gourmet microwave entrees for dinner, what happens to prayer and meditation?

And what about those other rich foods such as the long obligatory prayer, the Fire Tablet, deepening in the Writings, teaching one’s children, and acts of love and holiness?

I ask you, do we have time to feed ourselves really well? Is our spiritual diet to be as abbreviated as our culinary habits?

Perhaps if we could schedule a really complete meal for weekends we might get by during rush-rush days with some “quick food snacks.”

Served attractively, our Bahá’í “fast food” needn’t be too high in saturated fats and calories and can provide the proper nutrients for those busy days. It’s better than starving!

Why, last week, chasing around all day, I nearly fainted from spiritual dehydration. I don’t want that to happen again.

You will agree that one should never go without breakfast, won’t you? Your soul needs at least a few calories to run on for the morning ride, if nothing else.

For starters, a one-page morsel from the Bahá’í DayBook provides some quick nourishment to boost one’s spiritual circulation.

Then, how about your mid-morning coffee break? For light refreshment at this time of day, I always prefer a song snack to give me a little lift. The “Hawaiian Unity Song” whistled, hummed or sung heightens life’s flavors and reduces hunger pangs.

If you’ve been eating properly during the morning, you won’t be so ravenous at lunch and you can “Let Thy Beauty to be my food, and Thy Presence my drink.”

Beauty really makes a nutritious lunch, is high in emotional content, yet isn’t overly filling. I hate going through the afternoon with that drowsy, lethargic feeling from over-eating.

If dinner has to be on the run, you won’t leave the table hungry after a light dessert of nine “Greatest Names” as the perfect finishing touch, your perfect non-caloric sweetener.

Ah, but it’s hard to get through those long evening hours without a favorite snack, isn’t it?

You probably remember something in your distant past that you associate with warm fuzzies, or for which you have a special weakness. For me, it’s The Hidden Words. Gosh! I have almost no resistance to them. Just one or two is addictive, and I find myself devouring them all!

For an all-purpose snack food, probably nothing has more balanced vitamins and minerals than

See AUNT FLY page 28

Promise

from page 1

munity.”

• The village Board of Trustees in Wilmette, Illinois, site of the Bahá’í House of Worship, also passed a resolution in January designating 1986 as the “Year of Peace” in Wilmette and mentioning the “lofty ideals” embodied in the peace statement. In December, the members of the Board received copies of the statement from Dr. Robert Henderson, secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly, who presented them on behalf of the Spiritual Assembly of Wilmette.
• In Ashland, Oregon, an interview with local ‎Bahá’í’s Bahá’ís‎ about the peace statement led to a three-column article in the local newspaper about the statement, the Faith, and plans to distribute the statement to government officials and others.
• The ‎Bahá’í’s Bahá’ís‎ of Howard County, Maryland, presented the peace statement to county officials during a luncheon at a local restaurant. Those receiving the document included the county executive, council members, the president of the school board, police chief, library director, and representatives of county offices and private organizations including the county Peace Action Committee.
• The mayor and members of the Village Board of Niles, Illinois, received the peace statement as a part of the agenda at their regular meeting. “Before” and “after” articles appeared in the local paper.
• In Lansing, Michigan, an article in the local paper headlined “‎Local Bahá’í’s Local Bahá’ís‎ Delivering Message of Peace” announced plans for distribution of the statement to state and city government officials, organizations, associations and friends.
• In Fairfield, Iowa, a Bahá’í responded to a letter to the editor of the local paper in which the peace statement was criticized, stating that differences in interpretation of Holy Scripture had caused many divisions within and among religions. He then quoted the passage from the peace statement about the challenge facing religious leaders.
• In Pensacola, Florida, Bahá’í Lynda Couture, who writes a weekly column in The Pensacola Voice, a black-oriented newspaper, offered the peace statement to the editor who divided it into two parts and printed it in successive issues of the weekly paper.
• A column entitled “The Peace People” in the Salinas, California, local paper featured the Bahá’ís of Salinas, the peace message and their annual award to a local figure who is working for peace.
• In Clovis, California, an interview by a staff writer on the Independent resulted in an article headlined “Bahá’í Group Looks to Promote Worldwide Peace.”
• In Hemingway, South Carolina, the District Teaching Committee presented the statement to the mayor at a gathering at the Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute. The speaker was Dr. Roy Jones, the director of the Gregory Institute.

Meanwhile, news continues to be received from other countries about their use of the peace statement including peace conferences, press coverage, and presentations. For example:

• More than 250 participants, half of whom were not Bahá’ís, attended a National Peace Conference in Hawaii to inaugurate the International Year of Peace. Among those attending were all the members of the National Spiritual Assembly of Hawaii; two Counsellors; Auxiliary Board members; representatives of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, the Council of Churches, the Alliance for Peace, Ground Zero, the University of Hawaii, and many other academic, civic and peace organizations. The dynamic, spiritually charged and emotionally moving spirit of the conference affected Bahá’ís and non-Bahá’ís alike, unleashing a powerful energy for peace.
• Quite different but also significant were four seminars on Education for International Cooperation organized by the Spiritual Assembly of Albano Laziale, Italy. Although attendance was small, the seminars triggered widespread comment, interest and applause as far away as Rome.
• Back in the U.S., a successful Marxist-Bahá’í Dialogue was held January 25 at the Louhelen Bahá’í School. During the seminar, two of Canada’s leading Marxist scholars and a Marxist expert on Central American politics presented the Marxist position, history and viewpoint on the nature of man and society. Although they did not concede their fundamentally different position, the Marxist representatives remarked at the close of the meeting on the beauty of the Bahá’í vision, and expressed their admiration for the atmosphere of intellectual search, substantive discussion and freedom from dogma.

Mayor Robert Whiting of Dover, New Hampshire, receives a copy of the book Waging Peace from Dover Bahá’í Sharon Lester (left) and Kay Cichon after proclaiming September 17 ‘International Day of Peace’ in Dover.

Challenge

from page 1

First, said Mr. Sears, “we are going to vie with each other.

“That’s VIE—Victorious Individual Effort; or, if you prefer, Very Important Enterprise.

“We shall accomplish this amazing, heroic victory,” he added, “during the month of the Fast ...

“The 19 days of the Fast plus one day, Naw-Rúz itself, making 20 days in all.

“The number 20 becomes very significant and important to us because during this wonderful fasting month, each one of these 20,000 contributions will be dedicated to the 20,000 martyrs who gave their lives for us during the days of the Dawn-breakers—20,000 for 20,000.

“The sky’s the limit,” said Mr. Sears, “and first prize is already in your hands if you arise in that spirit.”

During the past year we have seen Bahá’ís rising to several important challenges including the presentation of “The Promise of World Peace” to representatives at the highest levels of American government.

Simultaneously, the condition of the Bahá’í Fund has been steadily strengthened, reflecting the increased level of activity in the American Bahá’í community.

By putting all of our actions, prayers and spiritual energy into achieving one of the greatest single victories of the Seven Year Plan—20,000 contributions to the National Bahá’í Fund in a 20-day period—we will, in the words of Mr. Sears, “astonish and arouse the entire Bahá’í world,” and “together, win the greatest single victory of the Seven Year Plan and end the plan on another note of joyous triumph.”

Responses

from page 1

lish a “secret” goal, but did increase the budget to $8.7 million in early summer.

6. Send each believer 50 cents to keep or return as a contribution.

Response: The National Assembly did not adopt this suggestion.

7. Make available the slide presentation “The Plan of God” shown at the Convention in conjunction with the National Teaching Committee presentation.

Response: A video tape which was made from the slide program is now available as part of the “Effective Teaching” workshop.

8. Set dates for the delegates to give post-Convention reports throughout the country.

Response: This is under consideration as part of a program to better coordinate delegate reports.

9. Evaluate our fund-raising methods and consider the successful methods used by other organizations.

Response: Many Bahá’í professionals with expertise in fund-raising and finance met last July as a National Bahá’í Fund Advisory Task Force to address this issue. Several of the ideas that resulted from the meeting were implemented and have proven to be quite effective.

10. Encourage district committees to use computers for maintaining membership lists.

Response: The Data Processing Office and the Computer and Telecommunications Committee are working on developing ways in which to make it easier for regional and local agencies to maintain computerized membership lists.

11. Focus attention on the financial needs of specific projects that could be undertaken with sufficient funds.

Response: This is being done. The District Convention Fund brochure, and articles and ads in The American Bahá’í, have emphasized projects such as the distribution of the peace statement and the fulfillment of our pledge to the World Centre. An educational program for children has also been developed to focus attention on the needs of the House of Worship in India.

Set a numerical goal for automatic deduction contributors and publicize its status in The American Bahá’í.

Response: The National Assembly is considering such a goal. The progress of this program will continue to be reported on a regular basis.

13. Consider setting up a toll-free “800” number for inquiries about the Faith.

Response: The cost appears to be prohibitive at this time; however, the National Teaching Committee is working with the District Teaching Committee of Kansas in testing this on a regional basis.

14. Encourage local treasurers to ask community members if they would like to be reminded to contribute to the Fund.

Response: This was tried in the past and did not work well; however, local treasurers are welcome to try it in their community.

15. Promote homefront pioneering as aggressively as the International Goals Committee promotes international pioneering.

Response: The National Teaching Committee is working closely with the International Goals Committee to enhance homefront pioneering during the upcoming Six Year Plan. Pioneering institutes are being planned, and target localities are being identified in each district. [Page 5]

THE FUNDS

Fasting period time to examine resources, reassess our values

What can we do during this month of fasting and the joyous Holy Day of Naw-Rúz to pay tribute to our spiritual forebears?

We can examine our material resources—all gifts from God placed in our care—and make a deeply sacrificial contribution to the Bahá’í Fund.

Then we can surprise ourselves by giving again. It’s hard to imagine the depths of our ability to sacrifice for the Cause once we start down the mystical path of fulfilling our sacred obligations.

The conduct of the early Dawn-breakers gives us an example of the true meaning of detachment from all things save God. A sense of astonishment stirs us when we recount the glorious consequences of their steadfastness.

Let us then strive to embody our title of “spiritual descendants of the Dawn-breakers,” arising as one soul in many bodies to replenish the fountain of sacrifice with our material wealth.

In this day we are called to spend our days in “living sacrifice”—generously pouring out our material wealth that the Kingdom of God may be built, brick by brick, on earth.

Together we can storm the gates of the Abhá Kingdom with 20,000 tokens of love during these special days.

Harrisburg welcomes Cambodian Bahá’ís with social evening

The Bahá’ís of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, welcomed Cambodian Bahá’ís to the community with a social evening December 23.

Eighteen Bahá’ís and their children enjoyed fellowship and refreshments with 10 adults, four youth and 10 children from Cambodia.

One of the highlights was songs in Khmer by 15-year-old Maly Sim and two songs in English by other Harrisburg Bahá’ís.

Five of the adult Cambodians, two youth and six children are Bahá’ís, some of whom accepted the Faith in the Philippines and some in Thailand. The other 11 are friends and/or close relatives.

The cry went out for thousands more to participate in a loving chore. The friends responded across the land -- much much more than the mailman planned.

Love is what will win the day! Our hearts assure us we’re half-way. We’ve left ten thousand in the dust! Fifteen has now become a "must."

With America’s heart firmly in it. There’s nary a chance that we won’t win it Although we can guess the glorious news, there won’t be a peep till after Naw Ruz!

— Bill

Record Fund streak continues in Sultán with $437,000 given

Contributions to the National Bahá’í Fund for the month of Sultán rose to $437,000, nearly 36 percent above the amount contributed during the same month a year ago.

This gratifying total comes on the heels of three consecutive goal-breaking months.

The enthusiastic response of the Bahá’í community to the pressing needs of the Fund has enabled the National Assembly to make substantial contributions toward its pledge of $1.5 million this year to the Bahá’í International Fund.

To date, $700,000 has been sent to the World Centre. The remaining $800,000 of the National Assembly’s pledge needs to be sent before the end of the Bahá’í year (March 21).

Contributions during the month of the Fast (‘Alá) have often sparked an immediate rise in giving that continued to grow to an end-of-the-year peak.

A continuation of the recent loving response to the needs of the Fund will assure the historic attainment of our Fund goal for a second time in this decade.

The promise of peace The Challenge of ACTION

WLGI . . . reinforcing hope in the unity of the human race.

“The National Fund must be firmly established, generously supported and universally and continually upheld, for it is the prerequisite of future progress and achievement.” —SHOGHI EFFENDI

The National Bahá’í Fund Wilmette, IL 60091

Southern Idaho on top; Eastern Oregon most improved

Contributions to the National Bahá’í Fund by District

District Name	'Starting Block' Info			Current Month Info (Masá’il)
	Membership (12/9/84)	Number giving	Percentage of participation	Membership (01/21/86)	Number giving	Percentage of participation
Alabama N
Alabama S/Florida NW
Arizona N
Arizona S
Arkansas
California C No. 1	2
California C No. 2
California N No. 1
California N No. 2
California S No. 1	2
California S No. 2	1
California S No. 3
California S No. 4

See VIE CHART page 26

Winners’ Circle

Highest percentage participation

1. Idaho Southern
2. Maine
3. Iowa
4. Minnesota Southern
5. Kansas
6. Nebraska
7. Georgia Northeast
8. (tie) Pennsylvania Western / Colorado Western
9. Utah
10. Tennessee Eastern
11. Idaho N/Washington E
12. New Hampshire
13. New York Western
14. Pennsylvania Eastern
15. Minnesota Northern
16. (tie) Ohio Northern / Colorado Southeast
17. (tie) Wisconsin Southern / Nevada Southern

Most improved participation

1. Oregon Eastern
2. South Carolina East No. 1
3. South Carolina Western
4. Alabama S/Florida NW
5. Idaho Southern
6. Florida Northern
7. Texas Southern
8. Georgia Southern
9. Kansas
10. Colorado Southeast
11. New Mexico S/Texas W
12. Maine
13. Mississippi
14. Texas Central No. 1
15. Texas Central No. 2
16. Arizona Southern
17. Florida Southeast
18. Texas Northern
19. California Southern No. 3

[Page 6]

Nearly 2,000 U.S. pioneers have settled at overseas posts since beginning of Seven Year Plan

PIONEERING

March is that time of the year when we individual Bahá’ís look inward to assess what spiritual progress we’ve made during the past year.

Our thoughts and prayers turn toward Bahá’u’lláh in gratitude for the many blessings He has bestowed, as well as for divine assistance for all that we have yet to accomplish. This same process takes place in the Divine Institutions.

In looking back over the accomplishments in the pioneering field, the International Goals Committee was surprised to realize that since the beginning of the Seven Year Plan, some 1,828 pioneers have gone from the U.S. to carry the Message to other lands.

In only the last two-year phase of the Plan, 465 posts were settled.

Of course, mere numbers don’t begin to tell the story, but how pleased Bahá’u’lláh must be with these Bahá’ís. Their number will grow larger as we approach Ridván, and it doesn’t even include the thousands of children who have pioneered with their parents or who were born at their posts.

“Oh, how I long to announce unto every spot on the surface of the earth, and to carry to each one of its cities, the glad-tidings of this Revelation...” (Bahá’u’lláh, Gleanings, p. 16)

Many of these pioneers are still in the field, joining the hundreds of others who left the shores of America and adopted other countries as their home before and during the Ten Year Crusade, the Nine Year Plan, and the Five Year Plan.

Others have found it necessary to return to the U.S., where they continue to serve on the homefront. To all of them we owe a debt of gratitude beyond expression.

As we look ahead to the immediate future, March and April 1986, we beg your prayers that the unfilled international goals assigned to us by our Supreme Body will be filled successfully. We will then embark upon the Six Year Plan with renewed energy and zeal.

Left photo: Auxiliary Board member Ed Diliberto was among those who presented inspirational talks to prospective pioneers during the Pioneer Training Institute held in January at the Bosch Bahá’í School near Santa Cruz, California. Right photo: Participants in the Pioneer Training Institute assemble in front of one of the dorms at the Bosch School. Besides Mr. Diliberto, the prospective pioneers also heard from International Goals Committee member Dr. Alfred Neumann.

In Hatch family, everyone’s a pioneer

When any of us talks to pioneers, we are often delighted to discover the many ways they have found to proclaim the Faith.

Often, just the manner in which they conduct their daily affairs serves as a strong attraction to their neighbors or business associates.

In pioneer families everyone is a teacher, but not always in the same way. There are many ways the Faith can be taught.

For example, Richard and Sara Hatch and their children, pioneers to Japan living in Okinawa, have been quite busy since their arrival there.

Each member of the Hatch family has a unique way of contributing. Recently, we received a letter from them telling us of an exciting event: Sara Hatch, an artist and teacher, was having an exhibit of her art work in Okinawa.

In the letter, she described how the exhibit proclaimed the Faith: “As a result of this exhibition there were ‎2,00 2,000‎ flyers picked up. 700 of them were sent by mail to the regular customers of the Sheraton Hotel. 300 were distributed...

“There were two TV interviews scheduled. ... Two more interviews were scheduled for an English-language magazine and an Okinawan newspaper.

“During each interview, the Bahá’í Faith is said to be the inspiration for the art work. The doors seem to open wide for publicity.”

As Sara continues to have periodic art exhibits, the rest of the Hatches are far from idle.

Jeremy and Jenna, the Hatches’ children, are active pioneers. The Hatches write:

“... they have been able to make many very close friends with the native children and adults. Jeremy and Jenna are years ahead of their peers in maturity and outlook.

“In every Bahá’í community that we have lived in, their behavior has been commented upon as exemplary.”

The International Goals Committee office is constantly made aware of the rapid adjustment that the children of pioneers make at a post. In many instances, it is the children who pave the way for native-born adults to approach the pioneers to learn more about why they seem so open and friendly.

Sara Hatch describes her husband as “the rock of Gibraltar upon whom we all depend.” Richard works for the U.S. Civil Service on a military base in Japan, which allows Sara to pursue her art.

During the firesides in the Hatches’ home, it is Richard who gives what is often described as “a wonderful Bahá’í talk.” And it is to Richard that the family members turn with their problems, big or small.

Richard and Sara Hatch, pioneers from the U.S. to Japan, and their children, Jenna and Jeremy.

The Hatches are a good example of how living a Bahá’í life at a pioneering post is an effective way of teaching. For some, the idea of pioneering is at the same time attractive and a bit scary. Often, those who hear about the experience of pioneers conclude that they may not be the right ones to go; that they don’t have “the right stuff.”

Actually, Bahá’u’lláh and the beloved Guardian lay down for us what “the right stuff” is: “They that have forsaken their country for the purpose of teaching Our Cause,” Bahá’u’lláh says in Gleanings (p. 334), “these shall the Faithful Spirit strengthen through its power. A company of Our chosen angels shall go forth with them, ... Such a service is, indeed, the prince of all goodly deeds, ...”

The Guardian states, “Neither the threatening world situation, nor any consideration of lack of material resources, of mental equipment, of knowledge, or of experience—desirable as they are—should deter any prospective pioneer teacher from arising ...” (Guidance for Today and Tomorrow, pp. 227-28)

With Ridván approaching and the Six Year Plan to be published soon by the Universal House of Justice, now is the time for those Bahá’ís who have thought about pioneering to make a beginning.

For those who haven’t yet considered it, it’s an ideal time to deepen their understanding of pioneering. Whichever category you’re in, contacting the International Goals Committee office at the Bahá’í National Center is a good first step toward continuing your lifetime of service to the Cause.

Iceland schedules late June conference north of Reykjavik

The National Youth Committee and National Properties Committee of Iceland are planning a conference June 28-July 5 at the Bahá’í endowment property in Porskafjordur, about five hours north of Reykjavík.

Each day’s activities are divided in half with morning classes before lunch, mostly youth-oriented, and afternoon work in the gardens at the huge property where the camp is held.

The cost is $70 or $10 per day. Small additional costs may include those for gas and use of swimming facilities.

Time will be set aside each day for swimming, hiking and other outdoor activities.

If you plan to attend the conference and would like to travel and teach either before or after, please contact the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

OPEN GOALS
AFRICA
(F) Mauritania	2
AMERICAS
*(S) Argentina	3
(S) Easter Island	1
(E) Dominica	2
(S) Ecuador, Galapagos Is.	1
*(F) French Guiana	1
AUSTRALASIA
(E) Tuvalu	2
*Replacement goals
LANGUAGE KEY
E—English
F—French
S—Spanish

West African Centre seeks tour speakers

The West African Centre for Bahá’í Studies, established under the auspices of the National Spiritual Assembly of Nigeria, has as one of its major objectives the task of initiating and increasing Bahá’í activities in the universities of the region so as to make them familiar with the teachings of the Faith.

To that end, a series of international lecture tours of the universities is being planned, and the Centre is seeking Bahá’í scholars and academics, preferably self-supporting, who can visit the various universities and devote whatever time is necessary to presenting the Faith either directly or through the medium of other academic disciplines in which they may be proficient.

Those who are competent to undertake such assignments are advised to please consult with the Continental Board of Counsellors in Africa (P.O. Box 30512, Nairobi, Kenya) and the National Spiritual Assembly of Nigeria for help and guidance. [Page 7]John Khadem, a Bahá’í youth who served last summer as a traveling teacher in the U.S., tells the audience at the Grand Canyon Youth Conference in Phoenix, Arizona, about the Amoz Gibson Teaching Project in Wanblee, South Dakota.

Conferees assess ‘Youth Movement’ progress

The Bahá’í Youth Movement was the main topic of discussion at an historic meeting held February 1 at the Bahá’í National Center.

Attending were Counsellors for the Americas Eloy Anello, Farzam Arbáb, Wilma Brady, Robert Harris, Lauretta King, Donald Rogers, Fred Schechter and David Smith.

The Counsellors invited the National Youth Committees of Canada and the U.S. as well as representatives of Alaskan youth to gather for this joint consultation on the progress of the Youth Movement in North America.

An overview of progress made by North American youth since the first meetings were held in the spring of 1984 to launch the Movement revealed that enormous strides have been made, as evidenced by:

• the more disciplined behavior displayed by the youth, reflecting their intensive study of the Writings and the internalization of Bahá’u’lláh’s principles,
• the enthusiastic response to last summer’s teaching projects which led to a healthy increase in youth enrollments,
• the successful observance of the International Year of Youth in 1985,
• the heightened level of conversation among youth and their increased study of the Writings, along with the generation of more creative and scholarly statements by young ‎Bahá’í’s Bahá’ís‎,
• and the successful establishment of a structure designed to facilitate rapid communication among the youth, a system critical to the strength of any social movement.

It was noted that these achievements, along with many others, have been realized since the receipt of the letter of January 1984 from the Universal House of Justice in which the Supreme Body challenged youth to “move the world.”

The Bahá’í Youth Movement, which was begun out of a desire to fulfill that challenge, has served as an effective vehicle to mobilize the youth and will continue to influence youth’s commitment and expression, both active and creative.

Much of the consultation between Counsellors and youth committees focused on the issue of choice.

Should we be content with the level of success thus far achieved under the umbrella of the Movement, a level that can be seen as impressive and historic, or can steps be taken to continue the growth and development of the Movement into a true avenue of social and spiritual change that will confirm Bahá’í youth and attract their contemporaries to the Cause?

The choice was inevitable and complete. The full resources of the Counsellors, as well as those of the continent’s National Youth Committees, have been pledged to the ongoing progress of the Movement.

The establishment of a youth movement, said Gail Etzenhouser, a National Youth Committee member from Kansas, “involves a long-range commitment with a vision of where we want the Faith to be in the coming years.

“The Six Year Plan offers a long-range time frame for focus,” she said. “What shall we have achieved by the end of that Plan and how can the Movement serve as the vehicle for meeting those ends?”

In this country, the National Youth Committee has initiated some structural changes in the Youth Network, changes that will aid consultation and communication among the youth and allow for a constant exchange between segments of the youth population.

The establishment of Regional Youth Committees and the direct sponsorship and appointment of District Youth Committees (there are presently more than 100 regional and district agencies in place), was “tailor-made for the growth of the Movement,” said Ms. Etzenhouser.

“We have never been in a better position to get the Movement on a firm footing and to begin the exciting work of sharing the principles of the Faith with our peers under this umbrella.”

Following the joint consultation, the National Youth Committee met to consult on the immediate challenges to be faced.

It was decided to hold both regional and district meetings in the weeks ahead to convey to all youth the impact, both short- and long-range, of this historic meeting and to consult with youth at all levels on steps that can be taken to expand the influence and aims of the Movement, both among Bahá’í youth and their peers.

In addition to the local and regional Movement meetings being held in the next couple of months, the big push will be to begin that “mighty mobilization” mentioned by the House of Justice in its January 1984 message to youth by raising up 1,000 youth projecteers this summer.

Last year, more than 500 youth took part in summer projects, and it had earlier been decided to double the participation this year.

More information about the various summer opportunities will appear in upcoming issues of The American Bahá’í and “Youth Hotline,” and details are also available through the National Youth Committee office.

First Grand Canyon Youth Conference sees 1,700 attend

About 1,700 people from the U.S. and other countries attended the first Grand Canyon Bahá’í Youth Conference held December 27-30 at the Hyatt-Regency Hotel and Civic Plaza in Phoenix, Arizona.

The conference was sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Phoenix and planned by youth in the greater Phoenix area.

Besides the U.S., those taking part in the conference came from Canada, Chile, mainland China, Hong Kong and Venezuela.

Among the speakers were Marilyn Greene of the National Race Unity Committee; Jerry Bathke, Social and Economic Development Committee; two dynamic Bahá’í youth from New Zealand, John and Helen Danesh; and Homa Sabet, a Bahá’í youth from Los Angeles.

Topics addressed were “Vision of Universal Peace,” “Teaching Peace by Resisting Peer Pressure” and “Youth: The Key to Peace,” with workshops on international service, racism/nationalism, and world peace and individual action.

Entertainers who showed up to enliven the program included Leslie and Kelly, the New Generation, the Nayriz Youth Connection, and the San Francisco Drama Workshop.

Planned direct teaching activities with follow-up consolidation were ongoing throughout the Valley area during the conference, and a previously arranged teaching trip to the Sacaton Indian Reservation, where youth conducted a Nineteen Day Feast on December 30, resulted in 16 declarants.

To help the National Spiritual Assembly meet its $1.5-million pledge to the Universal House of Justice, about $200,000 was raised during an unscheduled 45-minute auction, with funds earmarked to the Universal House of Justice, the Persian Relief Fund, and the Phoenix Bahá’í Fund.

Three television stations sent news teams to cover the conference while the Phoenix Gazette published an article about it.

Of the press releases sent, 11 were known to have been printed.

The excitement generated by the conference has left the Valley Bahá’ís eager to undertake more and greater challenges to demonstrate that “deeds, not words” will bring about the triumph of the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh.

Youth Conference set for Richmond

The Bahá’í Regional Youth Committee of the Atlantic Coastal States is sponsoring its first Regional Youth Conference to be held April 4-6 in Richmond, Virginia.

The $49 cost includes registration, motel housing and all meals ($54 for persons registering after Naw-Rúz).

For more information, please contact Sohail Dadressan, registrar, Baltimore, MD 21239, or phone 301-339-7214.

More than 80 youth attend ninth annual College Club Conference at Green Acre

More than 80 youth gathered January 24-26 for the Green Acre Bahá’í School’s ninth annual College Club Conference, planned and carried out by the Regional Youth Committee.

A special guest was Counsellor Eloy Anello who spoke Sunday morning at a standing-room-only session, discussing the Lesser and Greater Peace and the role of Bahá’í youth in bringing them about.

The Counsellor ended his talk by sharing stories from the December gathering of the Continental Boards of Counsellors in Haifa.

The conference opened Saturday morning with a session on changing society through our professions. In the afternoon, everyone was divided into groups according to their fields of study, and each group prepared a 20-minute presentation addressing three questions:

1. What is the present thinking in this field? 2. What is the ideal state of this field? 3. How can ‎Bahá’í’s Bahá’ís‎ bridge this gap?

The reports, given Saturday evening, generated intense discussion.

A guest speaker from the United World Federalists spoke Saturday afternoon and then answered questions for an hour.

To the above activities were added singing, laughter, dancing and friendship. People are already talking about next year’s conference.

Bahá’í youth can play important role in meeting Mr. Sears’ ‘20,000’ challenge

The friends have been given one more exciting challenge by the Hand of the Cause of God William Sears for the final phase of the Seven Year Plan.

Thrilled by the community’s response to his previous challenges associated with the construction of WLGI Radio and the “month of firesides” campaign, Mr. Sears is now challenging the community in the area of giving to the National Fund.

During the Fast (March 2-20) and Naw-Rúz (March 21), 20 days in all, the challenge is to have at least 20,000 Bahá’ís contribute directly to the National Fund ... and Bahá’í youth can make an important contribution to the challenge!

With more than 4,000 Bahá’í youth in the community, young Bahá’ís can, through universal participation, achieve 20 percent of the goal with relative ease.

So that every youth’s contribution is counted, it is important that your Bahá’í I.D. number is written on the check, or that you fill out the coupon below and enclose it with your donation.

YES, MR. SEARS ... I want to be counted among the 20,000 contributors to the National Fund. Please count me in! Name ____________________________________ Bahá’í I.D. __________ Address _____________________________________________________ City ___________________________________ State _______ Zip ______ Mail with your contribution before March 21 to: National Bahá’í Fund, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

Warriors of Peace launch campaign to win youth Plan goals in Southeast

The Army of Light has a couple of brand new regiments.

Calling themselves the “Warriors of Peace,” youth in Region 8 of the Youth Network (Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana and Mississippi) have launched an ambitious teaching campaign to help in the effort to win the goals of the Seven Year Plan.

Coordinated by the Regional Youth Committee, the District Youth Committees in each district have planned teaching events each weekend in March. In addition, each youth in the region is being urged to hold individual firesides each day of the first month of the new Bahá’í year.

“The youth here are so excited about these plans,” Corky McNeil of the Regional Youth Committee said of his recent trip to Mississippi and Louisiana. “When they heard about the Warriors of Peace, they sat right down and planned all four weekends of teaching. And the neat thing is how supportive the adults are of them and what they want to do.”

A new teaching fire is spreading as well in the metropolitan Washington, D.C., area.

“Project Olinga” was born of ...

See WARRIORS page 16

Summer teaching

Attention young people ages 18-25: Summer teaching projects are being arranged in Europe, and possibly in Spain, Italy and Finland.

If you are interested in being considered to participate, or want more information, please contact the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, as soon as possible!

Youth pioneer? Let us hear from you

Last call for youth homefront pioneers for the Seven Year Plan! Are you between the ages of 15 and 21? Did you move in the last two years? Does your new hometown lack an Assembly? Or are you attending a college that doesn’t have a Bahá’í club? If you think you might be a youth homefront pioneer, call Carey at 305-584-1844. Bahá’u’lláh promises special bounties to those who arise to pioneer. Just think ... you may be a recipient of these bounties and not even be aware of it! [Page 8]

77TH BAHÁ’Í NATIONAL CONVENTION (May 1-4, 1986) CONVENTION SEATING REGISTRATION

REGISTRATION BY LETTER IS ACCEPTABLE; HOWEVER, PLEASE INCLUDE ALL THE INFORMATION REQUESTED BELOW.

NOTE: This does not reserve hotel accommodations. Please contact the hotel directly.

PLEASE PRINT — USE ONE FORM PER FAMILY

LIST ALL ADULTS ATTENDING

(Mr./Mrs./Miss) __________________________________ I.D. No. __________

(Mr./Mrs./Miss) __________________________________ I.D. No. __________

(Mr./Mrs./Miss) __________________________________ I.D. No. __________

(Mr./Mrs./Miss) __________________________________ I.D. No. __________

Address _________________________ Phone ( ) __________

LIST ALL YOUTH ATTENDING

Name / Age / Special needs ____________________________________________________________

LIST ALL CHILDREN ATTENDING

Name / Age / Special needs ____________________________________________________________

A QUALITY CHILDREN’S PROGRAM IS PLANNED. PRE-REGISTRATION IS ESSENTIAL TO ASSURE YOUR CHILD’S PLACE IN THIS PROGRAM.

MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS NOW!

Mail to: Office of the Secretary, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. Attention: National Convention Registration.

48 at Louhelen conference discuss ‘Bahá’ís and the Legal Profession’

Pictured are participants from 18 states, Canada and the Bahamas at a conference entitled ‘Bahá’ís and the Legal Profession’ January 10-12 at the Louhelen Bahá’í School.

EDUCATION

A conference entitled ‘‘Bahá’ís and the Legal Profession’’ was held January 10-12 at the Louhelen Bahá’í School.

Forty-eight Bahá’ís from 18 states, Canada and the Bahamas including 29 lawyers, judges and law students participated.

In addition to law, those taking part came from a variety of fields including accountants, teachers, students and dentists.

The participants made a number of recommendations to the National Spiritual Assembly regarding bringing a Bahá’í Legal Society into being, and made recommendations for a charter.

They also consulted on the need for Bahá’í legal professionals to be able to consult with one another regarding ethical questions that may arise.

Proposals included developing a compilation from the Bahá’í writings about professional ethics and establishing an ethics advisory board.

They also discussed ways in which to contribute to the legal profession and to society as a whole by participating in legal societies, writing on law-related topics, offering the services of Bahá’í individuals and institutions as mediators and arbitrators, combating racism, and promoting the rule of law in the world.

Another topic for consultation was how the relatively few Bahá’í lawyers can better serve the needs of the Bahá’í community.

The need for a directory of Bahá’í lawyers and some form of referral service was underscored by two requests for legal assistance received during the conference, one from a local Spiritual Assembly in California, the other from a National Assembly in Central America.

Pending formal establishment of a Bahá’í Legal Society that will be supported by the dues of its members, those at the conference contributed to a special earmarked fund at the Louhelen School.

The conference appointed a ... See LOUHELEN page 24

More important information about 77th Bahá’í National Convention May 1-4

The 77th Bahá’í National Convention will be held May 1-4, 1986, at the McCormick Inn, 23rd & the Lake, Chicago, IL 60616. The toll free number is 1-800-621-6909 (in Illinois, phone collect 312-791-1901).

Rates: $55 per night (plus tax)—1, 2, 3 or 4 in a room (two double beds). Rollaways are available @ $10 each.

Suites available: 1- and 2-bedroom suites are available (phone the hotel for rates). All suites have parlors with sleepers in addition to the bedrooms.

Reservations: Must be made directly with the hotel. Please be sure to identify yourself as attending the Bahá’í Convention, May 1-4. Request confirmation to ensure that your reservation was received. Please (1) give the names of all those sharing the room with you, and (2) indicate any special facilities needed for the handicapped (rooms to accommodate wheelchairs, etc.), as the number of such rooms is limited.

Sharing rooms: The hotel will not find you a roommate. You must make your own arrangements.

Transportation: There is regular bus service—Continental Air Transport—to the McCormick Inn from O’Hare Airport ($7.50) and from Midway Airport ($6.50). Taxis are also available.

Remember: You must register in person, with your Bahá’í membership card in hand. You may not register another family member or a friend by proxy. The coupon above includes registration information for seating and for registering children and youth at the Convention.

Colorado Assembly offers T-shirts to support Fund drive

To support this month’s drive for contributions to the National Bahá’í Fund, the Spiritual Assembly of Aurora, Colorado, is offering T-shirts with the logo ‘‘Be One of the 20,000.’’

To order, contact Mrs. Elinor Walker, secretary, Spiritual Assembly of Aurora, Aurora, CO 80013, or phone 303-693-1884.

All proceeds from sales of the T-shirts will go to the National Fund.

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

Name ____________________________________________________ Street __________________________________________________ City ____________________________________________________ State & Zip ____________________________________________ Age of recipient ________________________________________

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 APRIL: April 9, Jalál (Glory). Thought for the week: "He hath chosen out of the whole world the hearts of His servants, and made them each a seat for the revelation of His glory." Prayer: Bahá’í Prayers, pp. 122-23. Lesson: Read and discuss one or more of the suggested lesson materials: 1. The Hidden Words, No. 8, p. 5. 2. Gleanings, pp. 320-21 ("Hear Me, ye ...") 3. Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, No. 175, p. 204; No. 177, p. 205. Activity: Refer to Gleanings, p. 320, regarding the Flower that hath to bloom. Draw or paint a garden with this flower in it. Use creativity—this could be a collage decorated with glitter, beads, sequins, etc., or it could be a mosaic of tiny pieces of paper (cut or torn). If preferred, a similar activity can be done with a heart, as mentioned in the "thought for the week" above. Save this as a decoration for Ridván. Refreshments: Veggie sticks, dip and juice.

SECOND WEEK OF APRIL: Law and Justice. Thought for the week: "...this is not the Day of Justice but the Day of Grace, ..." Prayer: Bahá’í Prayers, pp. 36-37. Lesson: Read and discuss one or more of the suggested lesson materials: 1. The Hidden Words, No. 2, pp. 3-4. 2. Gleanings, pp. 289-90; 330-33. 3. Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, No. 105, pp. 132-33. Activity: Play a game using the sense of touch. Gather together some objects/toys and place them in a bag. Have the child close his eyes and feel the object. If he cannot identify it, see if he can tell something about it, such as hard/soft, round/square, warm/cold, etc. The only rule in this game is to keep one’s eyes closed until the turn is over. Refreshments: Cheese bites—1. Toast several slices of bread (light toast). 2. Butter the bread and cut each slice into small squares. 3. Put squares of cheese on the bread and place it on a broiler pan. 4. Put under the broiler until the cheese is melted. 5. Serve with juice or milk.

THIRD WEEK OF APRIL: Ridván. Thought for the week: "This is the day when the Day-Star of Truth rose over the horizon of life, ..." Prayer: Bahá’í Prayers, pp. 144-45. Lesson: Read and discuss one or more of the suggested lesson materials: 1. Anthology for Bahá’í Children, pp. 23-24. 2. The Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh at Baghdad, Vol. 1, pp. 259-63. 3. Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, No. 73, pp. 110-12. Activity and refreshment: As a special treat, make "Forgotten Cookies": 2 egg whites beaten very stiff; 3/4-cup of sugar added gradually to egg whites; 1 6-ounce package of chocolate chips folded in; 1/2-cup nuts chopped fine and folded in; 1/8-tsp. vanilla folded in; 1/2-tsp. nutmeg folded in. Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees. Drop cookies by teaspoons onto a foil-lined cookie sheet. As soon as the cookies are in the oven, turn the oven off. Leave the cookies in for at least three hours or overnight. (Many concepts are learned by a child in cooking. The children should be encouraged to help whenever possible.)

FOURTH WEEK OF APRIL: April 28, Jamál (Beauty). Thought for the week: "All that is in heaven and earth I have ordained for thee, except the human heart, which I have made the habitation of My beauty and glory; ..." Prayer: Bahá’í Prayers, p. 19. Lesson: Read and discuss one or more of the suggested lesson materials: 1. The Hidden Words, No. 11, p. 25; No. 36, p. 12; Nos. 12 and 14, p. 26. 2. Anthology for Bahá’í Children, No. 31, p. 21 (also can be found in Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era, pp. 52-53). 3. The Chosen Highway, pp. 97-98. Activity: Read the fairy tale, "Beauty and the Beast," or play a family game together. Refreshment: family’s choice!

More than 50 people including 17 non-Bahá’ís attended a ‘naming ceremony’ November 17 organized by the Bahá’í Groups of Parma and Strongsville, Ohio. The program included a short introductory talk on the Faith, prayers, readings and music. The two new babies were then officially introduced, and there were refreshments and socializing. Pictured with their new babies, Pablo DiAngelo and Serena Dawn, are Janet Tyler (left) and Layli Khorsandian.

EDUCATION

The Bahá’í Faith places great importance on the acquisition of knowledge and learning. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá says, "There are certain pillars ... established as the unshakable supports of the Faith of God. The mightiest of these is learning and the use of the mind ..." (Bahá’í Education, p. 25)

Bahá’í parents and communities face the challenge of applying this principle to the material and spiritual education of their children.

When new trends appear in American society, such as the movement to teach formal academic subjects to preschool children, Bahá’ís must weigh them carefully on the scale of the Teachings.

This article highlights some of the Bahá’í principles that relate to preschool education. It briefly addresses three specific questions:

• What is the difference between education and schooling?
• How do young children develop?
• What should young children learn?

Education and schooling

Education is not the same as schooling. Education is the release of human potential. It goes far beyond the narrow boundaries of what children learn in school.

Education is life-long. In fact, it begins before we are born with prayers for the unborn child and continues after we die through all the worlds of God.

Schooling is a part of education, but not the only, or even the most important, part of education.

The Bahá’í writings make it clear that although attending school is necessary, the most important education is begun and carried out in the family and is the responsibility of the parents. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá says:

"...it is incumbent upon the father and mother to train their children both in good conduct and the study of books ..." (Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 127)

And again, "It is incumbent upon every father and mother to counsel their children over a long period, and guide them unto those things which lead to everlasting honor." (Ibid., p. 134)

How children develop

How people develop has direct implications for how we educate children. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá makes it clear that human growth is a gradual process that is marked by stages. He says:

"From the beginning to the end of his life man passes through certain periods or stages each of which is marked by certain conditions peculiar to itself." (The Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 438)

He also says, "The seed does not at once become a tree, the embryo does not at once become a man ... they grow and develop gradually." (Bahá’í World Faith, p. 312)

The Master further explains: "We must be guided entirely by the intelligence and development of the child as to how soon we should begin to teach it." (Star of the West, Vol. 7, No. 15, December 12, 1916, p. 142)

This suggests that not only is a person’s growth gradual and marked by stages, but also that children are unique and learn things at different times.

Just as a plant will grow when it is ready, a child will learn best when he or she is ready. We provide the sunlight and good soil of love, patience and understanding.

We also can provide a stimulating environment that will give the child the best opportunity to learn when it is time. To expect children to do things before they are ready can lead only to frustration and failure.

On the other hand, when a child is ready to learn something he will learn it quickly and easily. This is why ‘Abdu’l-Bahá tells us, "we must be entirely guided by the intelligence and development of the child ..." (Ibid., p. 142)

What should children learn?

‘Abdu’l-Bahá says, "These children must be given a good training from their earliest childhood." (Bahá’í Education, p. 73)

The Writings make it clear that the family is the primary educational institution for young children. What is good training? The Holy Writings say that children should learn religion, good character, and useful arts and sciences.

Bahá’u’lláh says, "The parents must exert every effort to rear their offspring to be religious ..." (Bahá’í Education, p. 6)

He also says, "That which is of paramount importance for the children, that which must precede all else, is to teach them the oneness of God and the Laws of God." (Bahá’í Education, p. 6)

In particular, the law of prayer is mentioned as indispensable in building the proper foundation for a child’s spiritual development. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá says, "These children are even as young plants, and teaching them the prayers is as letting the rain pour down upon them ..." (Bahá’í Education, p. 28)

Also, "When the children are ready for bed, let the mother read or sing them the Odes of the Blessed Beauty, so that from their earliest years they will be educated by these verses of guidance." (Bahá’í Education, p. 40)

Other passages emphasize the importance of children memorizing prayers and the Holy Writings.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá tells us, "...from the very beginning mothers must rear their infants in the cradle of good morals." (Bahá’í Education, p. 22)

He also says, "Good character must be taught" (Bahá’í Education, p. 23), and "...the indispensable basis of all is that he should develop spiritual characteristics and the praiseworthy virtues of humankind." (Bahá’í Education, p. 42)

Such characteristics as good manners, courtesy, politeness, kindness, purity, firmness of purpose and high aims, as well as many others, are specifically mentioned.

The Writings also make it clear that children should learn "useful arts and sciences." This is why children should go to school.

However, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá says that even when children begin school, formal academic subjects are not the most important things they should learn: "The subjects to be taught in children’s schools are many ...: First and most important is training in behavior and good conduct." (Bahá’í Education, p. 42)

And again, "Training in morals and good conduct is far more important than book learning. ...If, however, the child be trained to be both learned and good, the result is light upon light." (Bahá’í Education, p. 43)

This does not mean that preschool children should only learn good conduct. Nor does it mean that programs for preschool children are inappropriate.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá also says that children should be taught in their early years and gives us ideas about how to do this:

"Beginning in childhood they must receive instruction. They cannot be taught through books. Many elementary sciences must be made clear to them in the nursery; they must learn them in play and amusement.

"Most ideas must be taught them through speech, not by book learning. One child must question the other concerning these things, and the other child must give the answer." (Bahá’í Education, p. 73)

The Master explains that formal schooling should not begin until the age of five. Even then, the child should learn mostly through play, He says, and good character still must be taught:

See EDUCATION page 28

Archives seeks copies of Alaska Bahá’í News

The National Bahá’í Archives is seeking the following copies of the Alaska Bahá’í News to fill gaps in its collection: Nos. 2, 6, 7, 13, 19, 22, 24, 27, 35, 42-45, 49-55, 59 and 60.

Anyone having copies he can donate is asked to contact the National Bahá’í Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

Equality to be theme of New England ABS’ Green Acre conference

The Association for Bahá’í Studies New England Regional Committee is sponsoring a conference on the equality of men and women April 11-13 at the Green Acre Bahá’í School.

The conference, entitled "New Dimensions of Equality," is designed to explore deeper meanings of the issue. As a member of the planning committee said, "We want to develop a positive vision, to see the bird in the air."

People are encouraged to pre-register by contacting the Green Acre Bahá’í School, P.O. Box 17, Eliot, ME 03903. [Page 10]

A commentary on consolidation

by the National Teaching Committee

In February, the Bahá’ís of South Carolina held a statewide meeting to discuss expansion and consolidation through the end of the Seven Year Plan and into the Six Year Plan.

The consultation was quite productive. The friends emerged from the meeting unified and renewed; District Teaching Committees, local communities, and individual believers assumed new responsibilities for the growth of the Faith previously directed by the Regional Teaching Committee.

During consultation, two lines of thought developed on methods for consolidation of new believers.

One, which was generally put forward by white Bahá’ís, was an emphasis on systematic visits and plans for meetings; the other, generally expressed by black Bahá’ís and especially by natives of South Carolina, stressed the need for simple human interaction—creating fellowship and a family bond among Bahá’ís, especially in interactions with new believers.

The need for systematic action and planning was well understood by Shoghi Effendi. Yet, he recognized this as subordinate to an individual living a Bahá’í life. It was not by “an organized campaign of teaching” that we would “secure the undoubted triumph” of the Cause, he wrote. Rather, there was “one thing and only one thing” that would be effective, namely, “the extent to which our own inner life and private character mirror forth in their manifold aspects the splendor of those eternal principles proclaimed by Bahá’u’lláh.” (Bahá’í Administration, p. 66)

“Until the people of the world see a shining example set by us,” he also wrote (in a letter of March 13, 1944, to an individual believer), “they will not embrace the Cause in masses, because they require to see the teachings demonstrated in a pattern of action.”

This, of course, does not eliminate the need for direct teaching, which remains essential for the spread of the Cause. But “unless and until the believers really come to realize they are one spiritual family, knit together by a bond more lasting than mere physical ties can ever be, they will not be able to create that warm community atmosphere which alone can attract the hearts of humanity, frozen for lack of real love and feeling.” (The Individual and Teaching, No. 59) “Combined with such deeds, you can teach the Faith easily.” (The Individual and Teaching, No. 61)

Historically, because of the fewness of our numbers, the Faith has been spread in the U.S. through meetings, proclamation events, and by traveling teachers who introduced the teachings and afterward often had infrequent contact with new believers. These are the patterns with which we are familiar and comfortable through practice. But now that we have increased our numbers, new patterns of interaction—beyond gathering for meetings—must be established if we wish to build strong communities that can attract the masses of humanity.

Our relationships among believers and indeed with all people must extend to our daily lives: jointly experiencing problems and joys, sharing meals, visiting regularly and socializing, and tending to the needs of the young, the elderly and the sick. One new believer summed up this point with a statement about a fellow Bahá’í: “He’s a good Bahá’í; he brings me soup when I’m sick.” There comes a time when we must go beyond talking about the Faith to living it daily.

We must become a true family in every sense of the word. On such a foundation the teaching work will flourish. This holds true for South Carolina, but also for California, Illinois, New York, or any local community in the U.S.

There is an additional point to learn from the consultation. It comes from noting the source of the recommendation—the native, black believers from South Carolina. Their invaluable participation reminds us that to become a true Bahá’í society, we must have the contribution of every culture within our community. Recognizing the beauty and value of diversity, and incorporating it into the development of our community life, is an inseparable part of our efforts to become one family.

On December 7, after months of planning, Bahá’ís from several communities in Southern California District No. 1 presented a successful peace seminar in Pasadena whose speakers represented four groups: the Bahá’í Faith, the United Nations, Beyond War, and Women for International Peace and Arbitration. Of the 140 or so people who attended, at least 50 or more were unfamiliar with the principles of the Faith. Everyone received literature from each of the organizations represented as well as a copy of the peace statement from the Universal House of Justice. Pictured (left to right) are the moderator, Judge Dorothy Nelson, treasurer of the National Spiritual Assembly; Judge James Nelson, chairman of the National Assembly; Gloria Haithman of WIPA; Don Kenyon of Beyond War; and Dr. Thurman Couch, representing the United Nations. Music was provided by a Bahá’í singing duo, Seaforth and Jenkins.

Peace conference set for June 13-14 in Lansing, Michigan

In response to the release of “The Promise of World Peace,” the Midwest Regional Committee of the Association for Bahá’í Studies is co-sponsoring a peace conference June 13-14 with the Mainland Michigan District Teaching Committee at the Lansing Civic Center.

It is anticipated that about 400 people from Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Ohio, Canada and other areas will attend.

The planning committee’s agenda already has the inclusion of splendid Bahá’í and non-Bahá’í speakers including Dr. William Maxwell, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly.

Also included will be workshops on critical issues affecting humanity, a variety of entertainment, the involvement of local and state officials, and meaningful participation by various non-Bahá’í peace and human rights groups.

If you have any ideas to share or have any personal connection to Bahá’í or non-Bahá’í peace and human rights organizations, the ABS would welcome hearing from you. Write to Diane Taherzadeh, secretary, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, or phone her at 313-434-3744 (home) or 313-763-7115 (work).

Black, white churches unite, honor Dr. King

The Spiritual Assembly of Moses Lake, Washington, was the catalyst that brought together three black churches and two white churches in January for a song fest honoring the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The spirit was high and publicity was excellent. Katie Shaw read ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s passage on “Unity in Diversity” and Brad Lucas read a Bahá’í prayer for mankind.

Many are talking about how to make the event even bigger next year.

Floyd Ferrell (second from left), the mayor of Rolla, Missouri, holds a copy of ‘The Promise of World Peace’ which was presented to him in December by the Bahá’ís of Phelps County. Shown with the mayor are Bahá’ís (left to right) Richard Meier, Cheryl Clark, Anita Henderson and Jeannie Radford (holding Jennifer Radford). This photograph appeared December 27 in the Rolla Daily News. The peace statement also was presented to the mayor of St. James, Missouri, and to the St. James Public Library with a copy of Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era.

List of jeopardized Assemblies in U.S.

• Alabama, Northern: Jefferson County.
• Alabama, S/Florida, NW: Macon County North.
• Arizona, Northern: Cottonwood, Flagstaff, Sedona, West Buckeye.
• Arizona, Southern: Cochise County SW.
• Arkansas: Washington County.
• California, Central No. 1: Albany, Lafayette.
• California, Central No. 2: Tulare.
• California, Northern No. 1: Red Bluff.
• California, Northern No. 2: Petaluma, Sonoma County South J.D.
• California, Southern No. 1: Calabasas-Topanga, El Monte, El Segundo, La Canada-Flintridge, Lakewood, Lawndale, Rosemead, South Gate, West Covina.
• California, Southern No. 3: Grover City.
• California, Southern No. 4: Lemon Grove, National City.
• Colorado, Northeast: Commerce City, Greeley, Northglenn.
• Colorado, Southeast: Beulah, Fremont County.
• Connecticut: Ridgefield Town.
• DelMarVa: Sussex County.
• Florida, Central: Gifford.
• Florida, Southeast: Benbow, Bryant, Carol City, Jupiter, Marathon, Tamarac.
• Florida, Southwest: Clearwater, Citrus County, Collier County, Gulfport, Lakeland, Pasco County West.
• Georgia, Northeast: Columbia County West.
• Georgia, Northwest: Barnesville, Cherokee County, Clayton County, Cobb County SE, Douglasville, Henry County, Lincoln Park, Rockdale County, Thomaston.
• Idaho, N/Washington, E: Lewiston, Millwood, WA, Nez Perce Res., Toppenish, WA, Wapato, WA.
• Illinois, Northern No. 2: Berwyn, Cicero, Hanover Park, Hoffman Estates, Morton Grove, Northfield Township, Schaumburg.
• Illinois, Southern: Alorton, Chatham, Limestone Township, Mahomet Township.
• Indiana: Marion, Speedway.
• Iowa: Cedar Falls, Marshalltown.
• Kansas: Prairie Village, Winfield.
• Maine: Gorham, South Portland, York Town.
• Maryland/D.C.: Bel Air, College Park, Takoma Park.
• Massachusetts: Amesbury, Beverly, Pittsfield, South Hadley.
• Michigan, Mainland: Battle Creek, Lincoln Park, Pontiac, Royal Oak, Saginaw Township, Southfield.
• Minnesota, Northern: Mille Lacs.
• Minnesota, Southern: Hopkins.
• Mississippi: Madison County.
• Missouri: Clayton, Jefferson City, Maplewood, St. Joseph.
• Navajo-Hopi: Gallup, NM.
• Nebraska: Crete, Sarpy County.
• Nevada, Southern: ‎Clarke Clark‎ County West, North Las Vegas.
• New Hampshire: Exeter Town.
• New Jersey: ‎Middleton Middletown‎ Township, Piscataway Township.
• New Mexico, Northern: Espanola, Taos County.
• New York, Eastern: Hempstead Village.
• New York, Western: Clarence, Greece Town.
• North Carolina, Central: Orange County.
• North Carolina, Eastern: Rocky Mount.
• Ohio, Northern: Akron, Euclid.
• Oklahoma, Western: Anadarko, Duncan, Midwest City, Noble.
• Oregon, Eastern: Umatilla Res.
• Oregon, Western: Creswell, Klamath Falls, Polk County.
• Pennsylvania, Eastern: Bethlehem, Cheltenham Township, Lower Merion Township, Radnor Township.
• Pennsylvania, Western: State College.
• South Carolina, Eastern No. 2: Boggy Swamp.
• South Carolina, Northern: Gaffney, Greater Cowpens.
• South Dakota: Rosebud, Soldier Creek, Vermillion, White River.
• Texas, Eastern No. 1: Allen, Marshall, Mesquite.
• Texas, Southern: Brownsville.
• Vermont: Hartford Township, Rochester.
• Virginia, Northern: Springfield.
• Virginia, Southwest: Highland County, Roanoke County.
• Washington, Northwest: Normandy Park.
• Washington, Southwest: Pierce County Peninsula, Shelton.
• Wisconsin, Southern: Delafield, Janesville, Shorewood.
• Wyoming: Cheyenne.

[Page 11]

Teacher must ‘speak out, expound proofs’

In a letter of Riḍván 1982 the Universal House of Justice called for a “mighty upsurge of effective teaching” to meet the challenge of the growing hunger of peoples of the world for “the love of God and reunion with Him.” This is the eighth in a nine-part series that explores the principles of teaching the Faith. Every believer can, through the simple and direct guidance found in the Writings, become an all-confident, effective Bahá’í teacher, capable of uniting hearts with Bahá’u’lláh.

No matter which method of teaching is chosen, the time comes when the teacher must directly deliver the Message of Bahá’u’lláh.

“It is at such times,” ‘Abdu’l-Bahá wrote, “that the friends of God avail themselves of the occasion, seize the opportunity, rush forth and win the prize.

“If their task is to be confined to good conduct and advice, nothing will be accomplished. They must speak out, expound the proofs, set forth clear arguments, draw irrefutable conclusions establishing the truth of the manifestation of the Sun of Reality....” (The Individual and Teaching, No. 22)

At this point, a number of basic principles outlined by Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, and Shoghi Effendi guide the interaction of the teacher with the seeker.

One of the most important of these principles relates to the attitude of the teacher. There must be no trace of superiority. The teacher should approach the seeker as if he were offering a gift to a king.

“The teacher should not consider himself as learned and others ignorant,” ‘Abdu’l-Bahá wrote. “Such thoughts breed pride, and pride is unconducive to influence. The teacher should not see in himself any superiority; he should speak with the utmost kindliness, lowliness and humility, for such speech exerts influence and educates the souls.” (The Individual and Teaching, No. 21)

‘Abdu’l-Bahá advises that “when attempting to explain and demonstrate, we should speak as if we are investigating the truth, saying ‘Here these things are before us. Let us investigate to determine where and in what form the truth can be found.’” (The Individual and Teaching, No. 21)

In the exchange of views, the teacher must carefully listen to the opinions of the seeker, and avoid any trace of argument. Bahá’u’lláh stated:

“The teacher must carefully listen to whatever a person has to say—even though his talk may consist only of vain imaginings and blind repetitions of the opinions of others.... The teacher must avoid disputes which will end in stubborn refusal or hostility, because the other person will feel overpowered and defeated.

“Therefore, he will be more inclined to reject the Cause. One should rather say, ‘Maybe you are right, but kindly consider the question from this point of view.’

“Consideration, respect, and love encourage people to listen and do not force them to respond with hostility. They are convinced because they see that your purpose is not to defeat them, but to convey truth, to manifest courtesy, and to show forth heavenly attributes. This will encourage the people to be fair. Their spiritual natures will respond and, by the bounty of God, they will find themselves re-created.

“Consider the way in which the Master teaches the people. He listens very carefully to the most hollow and senseless talk. He listens so intently that the speaker says to himself, ‘He is trying to learn from me.’ Then the Master gradually and very carefully, by means that the other person does not perceive, puts him on the right path and endows him with a fresh power of understanding.” (Attributed to Bahá’u’lláh in Stories from the Delight of Hearts, p. 109)

Having first diagnosed the needs and understanding of the seeker, the teacher must “identify the malady, then prescribe the remedy, for such is the perfect method of the skillful physician.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, The Individual and Teaching, No. 28)

By this is meant that the teacher should identify what approach, or what aspect of the teachings, would appeal to the seeker. It also means that the presentation should fit the background and capacity of the seeker. For, “if at the outset a word is uttered beyond his capacity, he will refuse to hear it and will arise in opposition.” (Bahá’u’lláh, The Individual and Teaching, No. 3)

This approach, in which the presentation is matched to the capacity of the seeker, embodies the essence of wisdom: “...not that wisdom which requireth one to be silent and forgetful of such an obligation, but rather that which requireth one to display divine tolerance, love, kindness, patience, a goodly character and holy deeds.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, The Individual and Teaching, No. 26)

Finally, after delivering the Message of Bahá’u’lláh to the seeker, the teacher should accept the response without argument, anger or dismay.

“Consort with all men, O people of Bahá, in a spirit of friend-

See TEACHING page 23

Seven Year Plan Teaching Progress

ASSEMBLIES Assembly goal (Seven Year Plan).......................1,750 Local Assemblies formed..............................1,777 Assemblies on Indian Reservations (goal: 50).............61

Welcome to these New Assemblies:

Lee, NH	Kerrville, TX
Milledgeville, GA	Portsmouth, VA
Anne Arundel Co. E, MD	Enid, OK

Remember that although we have surpassed the goal, we need to ensure this total at Riḍván by continuing to form new Assemblies and strengthening jeopardized Assemblies.

NEW BAHÁ’ÍS Seven Year Plan goal.................“unprecedented increase” Since Riḍván...........................4,178 (as of January 24) Number of youth (included in total)........1,145 (27% of total)

Enrollment statistics for the top 10 states since Riḍván are:

South Carolina	1,866	Massachusetts	157
California	258	Georgia	127
South Dakota	252	Arizona	117
North Carolina	176	Florida	112
Texas	171	Oregon	77

Now Available... Proclamation Materials for the 1986 Media Program International Year of Peace

The IMAGES OF WORLD PEACE... expressed with dignity and clarity by the Bahá’í communities throughout the nation—

Outdoor Billboards, Bus Posters, Buttons, Stickers, Balloons, T-Shirts and other support items to follow Camera Ready AD Campaigns

...Thoughts expressed by the Bahá’í Faith TO THE PEOPLES OF THE WORLD

YES...RUSH MY ORDER PLEASE...

Name __________________________________________________________________

Address ________________________________________________________________

City _______________________________ State __________ Zip __________ Phone ___________

MasterCard / VISA (circle one) card number _____________________________ exp. date ________

Description	Quantity	Cost
OUTDOOR BILLBOARD / 30 sheet $45.00 ea. (Global Theme)
BUS POSTER / 11½ x 27” Pack of 10 @ $2.00 ea.—$20.00/pack (Global Theme) Full Color		PACKS
14 x 17” POSTER / Set of 2 $2.50 per set (Global and Logo Peace Themes) Full Color; Allows for imprint area		SETS
8½ x 11” POSTER / Set of 2 $1.00 per set (Global and Logo Peace Themes) Full Color; Allows for imprint area		SETS
BUTTONS (2¼”) / Variety Pack (Global and Logo Peace Themes) 10 per pack $3.00 per pack		10-PACKS
BUTTONS 100 per pack $40.00 per pack		100-PACKS
BALLOONS / Variety Color Pack $12.50 per pack 100 per pack		100-PACKS
BUMPER STICKER / Rectangle $5.00 per 10-pack 10 per pack		10-PACKS
WINDOW STICKER / Circle $6.50 per pack 10 per pack		10-PACKS
EXTRA PLUS CAMERA READY NEWSPAPER ADS / Peace Campaign $3.00 per set (Theme topics, with imprint area) 2 column and 1 column; Black & White; 85 line screen; All ads ready for repro in your local newspaper		SETS
PEACE PRESENTATION KIT — MEDIA $3.50 per kit		KITS
PEACE PRESENTATION KIT — GENERAL PURPOSE $2.00 per kit		KITS
Please add 10% for handling. ($1.50 minimum) Mail coupon and check or phone:	Subtotal
	Handling
	Total

Bahá’í Distribution Service
415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091 • 800-323-1880 or 312-251-1854 in Illinois

[Page 12]

BAHÁ’Í CROSSWORD

1	2	3		4	5	6	7
			8
9	10					11
	12				13
		14			15		16
17			18
19	20		21		22
23			24	25			26
27
	28	29			30
31				32
33					34

Puzzle copyright © 1986 by Juliette Whittaker

ACROSS 1. A deep sleep. 4. Racial attitudes are not inborn, they are ____. 8. It is “...the responsibility of the American believers .. to ‎out root out‎, by every means in their power, those faults, habits and tendencies which they have inherited from their own nation ...” (Shoghi Effendi, The Advent of Divine Justice, p. 17). 9. “The seventh candle is unity of ____; that is, the choice of a universal tongue in which all peoples will be instructed and converse.” (The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 39). 11. Ultra High Frequency (initials). 12. One’s nearest relatives. 13. “Racial prejudices ... should be regarded as constituting the most vital and challenging ____ confronting the Bahá’í community in America.” (The Advent of Divine Justice, p. 28). 15. Class or color should never be allowed to become a ____ of contention among Bahá’ís. 19. To form an unfavorable, irrational opinion without facts about another race is to pre____ them. 21. The opposite of love. 23. A sound used in Hindu meditation. 24. “Freedom from racial prejudices should be adopted as the watchword of the entire body of ____n believers.” (The Advent of Divine Justice, p. 30). 27. 1st word: O Thou the Glory of Glories! (trans.). 28. One who refuses to learn. 32. “He whose morals and virtues are praiseworthy is preferred in the presence of God; he who is devoted to the Kingdom is ____ beloved!” (The Advent of Divine Justice, p. 31). 33. “Close your eyes to racial differences and welcome all with the light of ____” (The Advent of Divine Justice, p. 31). 34. Medal of Honor (initials).

DOWN 1. “Consider the flowers of a garden. Though differing in kind, ____, form and shape, this diversity increaseth their charm and addeth to their beauty.” — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá 2. “...the foundation of the Faith of God ... is the consciousness of the Oneness of ____” (World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 36). 3. A protecting influence or power. 4. Law (scrambled). 5. Road (abbrev.). 6. “It does not ignore nor does it seek to suppress the diversity of ____nical origins, of climate, of history, of language and tradition ... that differentiates the people of the world.” (World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 41). 7. “Say: Beware O people of Bahá, lest ye walk in the ways of them whose words ____ from their deeds.” (The Advent of Divine Justice, p. 21). 10. Sun (scrambled). 11. The planet PL____. 14. United Nations (initials). 15. ____s are the largest racial minority in America at the present time. 16. One (scrambled). 17. No two ____ beings are alike. 18. “God maketh no distinction between the ____ and the black. If the hearts are pure, both are acceptable to Him.” (The Advent of Divine Justice, p. 31). 19. “The virtue of this Most Great Manifestation is that We have ... recorded therein that which leads to unity, harmony and accord. ____ unto those who practice!” (Bahá’u’lláh, Bahá’í World Faith, p. 179). 20. “How unpleasing to the eye if all the flowers and plants ... and the trees of that ____ were all of the same shape and color.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 42). 22. Tea (scrambled). 25. “The sixth candle is unity of ____, making all that dwell on earth peoples and kindreds of one race.” (World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 39). 26. “O ye children of men, the fundamental purpose animating the ____ of God and His Religion is to safeguard the interests and promote the unity of the human race.” (World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 202). 29. Bahá’ís, both black and white, must ____ every opportunity to show amity and harmony in their dealings with one another. 30. The most virulent and long-standing form of prejudice in America is rac____. 31. To perform an action. 32. Anyone who answers the question, “Who’s there?”

Answers to this month’s crossword are on page 26

Peace statement given to members of Congress

The ‎Nátional National‎ Spiritual Assembly has begun to receive reports from local Spiritual Assemblies across the country which have presented the Universal House of Justice’s peace statement to members of the U.S. Congress.

In Gallup, New Mexico, the Spiritual Assembly reports that Congressman Bill Richardson received the statement on January 15.

Of the 14 people present, one was a journalist who took copious notes and later was given her own copy of the statement. At the end of the ceremony, two-year-old Jenny Nakai gave Mr. Richardson a red rose.

The Spiritual Assembly of Toledo, Ohio, received a letter from Rep. Marcy Kaptur that read in part, “... You can be certain that I will take your statement back to Washington and refer to it in the coming months as I and my colleagues discuss the issue of world peace. ...”

Rep. Charles Stenholm met January 10 with a delegation of three Bahá’ís sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Graham, Texas.

He asked the Bahá’ís to sit down with him after he had received the statement and to tell him more about the Faith. He asked several questions about the ‎Bahá’í’s Bahá’ís‎ in Iran and the relationship between Christianity and the Faith.

The Spiritual Assembly of Middleton, Wisconsin, met January 6 with Rep. Robert W. Kastenmeier who responded positively as the members of the delegation read aloud the one-page synopsis of the peace statement prepared by the National Spiritual Assembly.

Rep. Kastenmeier expressed an interest in learning about the efforts of the Bahá’ís to disseminate the peace statement around the world.

On Tuesday, December 24, a delegation of Bahá’ís from the Los Angeles and West Hollywood communities presented a copy of the Universal House of Justice’s peace statement to U.S. Rep. Henry Waxman at his office in Los Angeles. Pictured (left to right) are Douglas McGrath, West Hollywood; Mohi Sobhani, Los Angeles; Lisa Janti, Los Angeles; Congressman Waxman; Mary Lou Monfort, West Hollywood; Nelson Sapad, Los Angeles; and Velura White, Los Angeles.

Assemblies write to Congress, urge passage of UN Genocide Convention

For the last year the National Spiritual Assembly has been collaborating with Amnesty International in an effort to urge U.S. senators to ratify the United Nations Genocide Convention.

Last spring, at the request of the National Assembly, several local Spiritual Assemblies nationwide wrote to their senators asking them to vote in favor of ratifying the Convention which had been signed by the United States in 1947.

In the spring of 1985 the Genocide Convention was under discussion in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, which voted to attach several amendments to the original text that would affect the interpretation of the United States’ liability should it ever be accused under the provisions of the Convention.

Amnesty International asked again in November 1985 for Bahá’í collaboration. As a result, Bahá’ís in 16 states were asked to contact specific senators who had expressed doubts about ratifying the Convention with its added provisions.

The Bahá’ís told these senators that as Bahá’ís they believed ratification of the Convention would be an important step toward the protection of all the peoples of the world and that the U.S. should be in the forefront of international efforts to secure human rights.

As of late January, debate in the Senate had not yet been scheduled.

Employee award brings use of car for Hawaii Bahá’í

Linda Price, a Bahá’í from Kailua, Hawaii, recently won the free use for a month of a 1984 Pontiac Firebird when she was named the first recipient of Castle Medical Center’s “Employee of the Month Award.”

Use of the car included insurance and the first tank of gas free.

Mrs. Price, who earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Hawaii in 1983, and her sister, Simonetta, grew up in a Bahá’í household and pioneered with their parents to Maui before they had reached their teens.

In an article in the Medical Center newsletter, Mrs. Price attributed her selection to “the Bahá’í teaching that work is equivalent to the worship of God if done in the spirit of service to humanity ...”

Ronald Blackwood (left), the mayor of Mount Vernon, New York, receives a copy of ‘The Promise of World Peace’ from Farhad Arbab, chairman of the Spiritual Assembly of Mount Vernon. The presentation was made in December at a ‘Unity is Everybody’s Business’ breakfast honoring Mayor Blackwood for his efforts to unite the various community elements in Mount Vernon. [Page 13]

‎AHA’I FAITH BAHA’I FAITH‎

On Saturday, November 23, the Hand of the Cause of God Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum spoke to an overflow audience of Bahá’ís from the New York City area at Public School No. 41 in New York. Among the topics covered were the Universal House of Justice’s peace statement and her presentation of that document to United Nations Secretary-General Javier Pérez de Cuéllar.

L.A. Center is host to 56 refugees; five declare belief

The following is reprinted from the Los Angeles Bahá’í Journal:

When Eileen Estes mentioned to her English-as-a-second-language class that she was a Bahá’í, hands shot up and questions bounced around the room like popcorn.

Reluctant to answer in depth in that setting, she asked those who would like to read something about the Faith to sign a paper, and almost went into shock when more than 30 signed up and practically the whole class signed another paper saying they’d like to visit the Los Angeles Bahá’í Center.

A community Feast had been scheduled for the following Sunday, and Eileen was able to ask the friends for help with food and transportation. The Bahá’ís of Santa Monica rushed to help, and oh, yes, the Los Angeles Bahá’í Youth Workshop would perform.

Sunday arrived and the caravan moved toward the appointed rendezvous point. Would any of the seekers actually be waiting?

There they were—a whole crowd of them including some children!

Counting those who came in their own cars, there were 56 refugees at the Bahá’í Center from Cambodia, Vietnam, Iran, Romania and Ethiopia.

The tables were laden with soup, curried chicken, rice and fruit. After enjoying the marvelous repast, the group of about 100 Bahá’ís and their guests gathered to hear musical presentations, watch the Workshop dance, and do some quiet teaching.

One won’t soon forget those special moments when the multilingual group joined in singing “We Are the World” and “One Planet, One People, Please,” which Eileen had taught them in class.

The joyful event came to a glorious conclusion when five of the visitors declared their belief in Bahá’u’lláh.

Answer to reaching Chinese lies here in U.S.

Reaching the people of mainland China with the Message of Bahá’u’lláh is extremely important.

How important? Consider that more than one-third of the world’s population lives in China and that these people need to learn of the healing Message of Bahá’u’lláh.

However, because mainland China is a “closed” country, teaching the Faith there is highly restricted. The challenge of reaching the mainland Chinese is considerable, and much of the answer lies in our contact with those Chinese who are presently living and studying in the U.S.

The National Spiritual Assembly has appointed a national committee to help in those efforts. Farzam Kamalabadi, a member of the committee, shared the following insights with the National Youth Committee:

“There are only 20,000 students and visiting scholars from mainland China who are either studying or doing research in the universities outside China.

“Only 10,000 of them are in the U.S. at this time. These people are the ‘cream of the crop’ of more than a billion Chinese. They will be the leaders of the future Chinese society in all the academic, administrative, political and economic institutions of the country, often serving as heads of their department, or university, or even becoming local or national leaders of such a vast nation.

“They are situated now in only two dozen or so universities and thus are within the reach of our Bahá’í Clubs to associate with them, befriend them, and familiarize them with the name and tenets as well as the spirit of our precious Faith.”

What a unique opportunity, privilege and responsibility! The most effective way to share the gift of the new World Order with mainland Chinese is by befriending them in the spirit of the Master, to reach out to them with hospitality and warmth, and to demonstrate, through deeds, the spirit of the Faith.

Your special efforts to develop genuine friendships with the Chinese in our area will surely bring many rewards.

If there is a base of Chinese students at your university, you are encouraged to contact the Chinese Teaching Committee, c/o Ms. Jacki Delahunt, National Teaching Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312-869-9093) or the National Youth Committee, 1371 Sunset Strip, Sunrise, FL 33313 (phone 305-584-1844) for more complete details on reaching the Chinese students on your campus.

Plans announced by National Assembly for MIS Committee

A Management Information Systems (MIS) Committee is being formed by the National Spiritual Assembly.

The committee will be comprised of individuals representing a broad range of expertise in such areas as data processing; data acquisition; systems design; software development, design and application; office automation; telecommunications, and hardware disciplines.

The committee will undertake specific assignments from the National Spiritual Assembly relating to the current information and organizational needs of the Bahá’í National Center and the American Bahá’í community.

Bahá’ís who are interested in serving as members of this committee should submit a resumé before April 15 to the Department of Human Resources, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

ABS sets California peace conference

The Association for Bahá’í Studies and the Bahá’í Club at the University of California-Irvine are sponsoring a conference, “Transition to a World at Peace,” to be held April 18-20 on the UCI campus.

The purpose of the conference is to generate and disseminate information relevant to the issue of world peace.

All communications concerning the conference should be addressed to the Association for Bahá’í Studies, Pacific Southwest Regional Committee, P.O. Box 2924, Newport Beach, CA 92663.

Can you identify anyone in this picture?

The National Archives has no information as to which community this is, when the photograph was taken, or who the individual Bahá’ís are. If you can identify anyone, please write to the National Bahá’í Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

Harrisburg to sponsor 9th Conference of Nur

The Spiritual Assembly of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, is sponsoring the 13th annual Conference of Nur (Light) May 30-June 1 at Elizabethtown (Pennsylvania) College.

The conference theme is “The Unfoldment of World Peace.” Sessions will focus on how peace can be achieved through (1) changes in society, (2) changes in human ties and bonds, and (3) changes in international institutions.

The speakers will include Counsellor Robert Harris; Auxiliary Board member Javidukht Khadem; and Peter Oldziey, an assistant to the Auxiliary Board.

Workshops will follow each topic session. Those who plan to attend are asked to read in advance “The Promise of World Peace,” The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, and “Waging Peace.”

Youth, pre-youth and children will have special programs, and Mrs. Khadem will conduct a special session for women only on topics of concern to them.

Anyone bringing children is expected to help with at least one session of the children’s program so that everyone can have a meaningful experience.

Entertainment Saturday evening will include international folk dancing and music by Van Gilmer of Washington, D.C., and Scott Anderson and Lee Feldman of York, Pennsylvania.

Pre-registration by May 11 is a must for everyone including commuters. Partial scholarship help is available; please contact the Spiritual Assembly of Harrisburg for details.

For registration forms and information about costs, write to the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Harrisburg, Attn: Registrar, P.O. Box 3108, Harrisburg, PA 17105, or phone 717-232-9163.

Amoz Gibson Centre files incorporation documents, looks toward university tie

Legal documents necessary to incorporate the Amoz Gibson Training Centre for Bahá’í Media in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, as a non-profit educational institution have been signed and filed and await government notice of the new corporation’s official registration.

Meanwhile, the Centre has been looking into a number of options for obtaining accreditation for its programs.

One exciting development is the possibility of an affiliation with the Interamerican University, Puerto Rico’s leading private institution of higher learning.

A cordial meeting was held last October 22 with the university’s president, and the Centre’s proposal for a joint one-year Certificate program in “Broadcasting and Media Arts” is now under consideration.

If successful, the initial cooperative venture might later be expanded into a two-year Associate of Science degree program with the Centre supplying half of the courses, and, eventually, to a bachelor’s degree in conjunction with Interamerican, a Middle States-accredited institution.

In another recent development, Miriam and Michael Beechy, who met during a radio course at the Centre, were later married and are now working at the World Centre in Haifa, have agreed to serve as the Amoz Gibson Centre’s hosts and caretakers.

She is Bolivian, he Canadian. Besides speaking several languages between them, it is said that they are both excellent international cooks.

The new caretakers will reside in the Centre’s newest building, a model solar home designed to serve as both a living quarters and institutional kitchen.

Those who are interested in learning more about the Centre or receiving a brochure outlining its upcoming programs should make note of its new mailing address: Amoz Gibson Training Centre, HC-02 Box 14765, Arecibo, PR 00612. The telephone number is 809-878-4189.

Correction

In the January issue of The American Bahá’í (page 17), in an article headed “Prayer magazine includes article on Bahá’ís in Iran,” a quotation published in the magazine Fellowship in Prayer is attributed to Bahá’u’lláh.

Actually, the quotation, which appears in Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era, is by the author of that book, J.E. Esslemont.

We apologize for the error. [Page 14]

Information readied on books in DISTRIBUTION SERVICE

The Bahá’í Distribution Service and Office of Persian/American Affairs are beginning an effort to disseminate more information regarding books available in Persian.

"We're hoping English-speaking Bahá’ís will help," says Marketing Manager Robert Blum, "by taking the initiative to assist Persian Bahá’ís, especially those who are newly arrived, to become more aware of the books that are available in Persian.

"The Office of Persian/American Affairs is helping the Distribution Service to improve its ability to provide more and better information about these books to the Bahá’í community."

Several books made available by the National Persian/American Affairs Committee are considered of vital importance: Tablets of the Divine Plan, The Advent of Divine Justice, and The Synopsis and Codification of the Kitáb-i-Aqdas.

"Many Persians have lost their identity, their jobs, their titles," says Puran Stevens of the Office of Persian/American Affairs. "It is difficult to live here in such circumstances and be proud of yourself—unless you feel that you have a role to play."

"The main point," adds Manuchehr Derakhshani, director of the Office of Persian/American Affairs, "is that newly arrived Iranian Bahá’ís need to understand the nature and destiny of the American Bahá’í community.

"They need to know the role the U.S. is destined to play in spiritualizing the world.

"We believe that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá's Tablets of the Divine Plan and The Advent of Divine Justice are central to developing this understanding," says Mr. Derakhshani. "Tablets of the Divine Plan ($4.50 SC) had been available in Persian but was printed in a compilation of Tablets by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. We published it separately with an introduction by Dr. Mahmud Majdhub, who was a respected lawyer in Iran before his martyrdom in 1981 along with his fellow members of the National Spiritual Assembly of Iran."

The Advent of Divine Justice ($4.25 SC) had also been available in Persian but changes were made by the Universal House of Justice in the newly published edition. The edition of The Synopsis and Codification of the Kitáb-i-Aqdas ($2.50 HC) had never before been available in Persian.

"We must ask ourselves," says Mr. Derakhshani, "why this influx of Persians into the U.S. has taken place. We believe the underlying reason is spiritual.

"With the emergence of the Faith from obscurity, we need to be able to demonstrate to the outside world an ever more closely unified community. The arrival of the Iranian Bahá’ís offers an excellent opportunity for creating and sustaining this organic unity.

"If the sacrifices of the friends in Iran are the cause of the progress of the Faith throughout the world, as has been repeatedly affirmed by Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, and the Guardian, then the resulting influx of Persians to this country is also a part of God's plan."

Another booklet sent to all arriving refugees, says Mrs. Stevens, is The Handbook for Newly Arrived Persians, which is available from the Distribution Service for $2. The booklet has a table of contents in English.

Persian/American Affairs has also made available through the Distribution Service a presentation copy of "The Promise of World Peace" in Persian calligraphy. It can be given to non-Bahá’í Persians, says Mrs. Stevens.

"Two other books that are Persian available and can be given to non-Bahá’í Persians," she says, "are The Bahá’í Faith Is Not a Political Movement ($4 SC) and Principles of the Bahá’í Faith ($2.50 SC).

"These two books have been published, at the instruction of the Universal House of Justice, especially to respond to the inquiries of Iranians about the Faith."

The Distribution Service, says Mr. Blum, "is considering several other ways of making it easier for Persian Bahá’ís to learn about the available items.

"We're exploring the possibility of producing and distributing a separate price list in Persian, as well as providing more information to our Distribution Representatives (librarians) around the country.

"We know how vital the Creative Word and the Sacred Texts are in our own lives and how especially important they must be to those who have sacrificed so much for their Faith."

Presentation edition of peace statement in second printing

The second printing of The Promise of World Peace presentation edition ($3 SC) was received by the Bahá’í Distribution Service the first week of February.

Shipments began going out immediately for the large number of back orders which had accumulated.

"It's obvious," says Distribution Service Marketing Manager Robert Blum, "from the continuing requests for the $3 version that the community is having success in making presentations of the peace statement.

"We've had order for more than 30,000 copies of the presentation edition in just over four months, and we still have many months left in the observance of the International Year of Peace.

"We urge communities," he says, "to plan their presentations and order their copies of the presentation edition of The Promise of World Peace quickly, so that they'll be assured of having copies on hand when opportunities to use them arise."

Last week in January a record-setter with more than 1,000 orders shipped by Distribution Service

In the last week in January the Bahá’í Distribution Service set a record for orders processed in one week when it shipped more than 1,000 orders to its customers.

"It's always nice to set a record," says General Manager Larry Bucknell, "but we were surprised by the size of this one. Our previous high had been 738 orders in one week, and we shipped 1,127 in the last week of January."

A number of circumstances, he says, contributed to the large total.

"We received both the shipment of All Flags Flying by William Sears ($20 HC, $10 SC) from South Africa and the shipment of the deluxe edition of The Promise of World Peace ($30 HC) which we produced for the National Spiritual Assembly.

"Those titles," says Mr. Bucknell, "had a large number of advance orders and standing orders. They and another new title—The Master in ‘Akká ($11.95 HC) from Kalimát Press—arrived, and finally, we received a reprint of The Promise of World Peace study edition from World Centre Publications.

"All of a sudden we had more than 1,000 orders ready to be processed and more coming in all the time. We began recruiting staff members who don't normally work in the shipping operation, and on Tuesday alone we shipped a daily record of more than 400 orders. The driver who picks up the United Parcel Service shipments was the only one who was unhappy about our accomplishment.

"While we're proud of the record," says Mr. Bucknell, "we're really more pleased with what it represents.

"It shows a high degree of acceptance by the Bahá’í community of the kind of books we're making available, and it also shows that our attempts to make the entire order processing operation more efficient are working.

"We're now able to ship more orders in one day than we could in a week only two years ago, and we're doing it with half the staff we once had in our warehouse.

"When we produce more work with fewer people," Mr. Bucknell concludes, "that translates ultimately into an ability to hold down the cost of the books and other materials we distribute."

Book on Tolstoy's relationship to Faith, novel about sufferings in Iran new from George Ronald

A book about one of the world's best known writers and a new novel are the two latest offerings from George Ronald Publishers.

Leo Tolstoy and the Bahá’í Faith ($9.95 HC, $4.75 SC) by Luigi Stendardo "traces the developments and fluctuations of Tolstoy's attitude (about the Bahá’í Faith) as more information was made available to him," according to the publisher.

"(The book) is based on (Tolstoy's) correspondence and diaries, as well as the memories of those close to him and Bahá’ís who came into contact with him. Most of the material is here made available for the first time in English, translated from Russian, Persian and French, and includes a hitherto unpublished Tablet of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá."

George Ronald's publicity material on the books says that Tolstoy became dissatisfied with the Church as a young man and was eventually excommunicated in 1901.

The author of War and Peace and Anna Karenina gradually developed a vision of "the establishment on earth of the Kingdom of God, that is to say, the replacement of an organization of life in which division, falsehood and violence are all-powerful, by a new order in which harmony, truth and brotherhood (would) reign."

In his last mention of the Bahá’í Faith prior to his death in 1910, Tolstoy describes the religion of Bahá’u’lláh as "very profound. I know of no other so profound."

George Ronald's second new book, The Touchstone of Sincerity ($6.50 SC), by J.D. Albert, is a novel describing the sufferings of a fictional Bahá’í in today's Iran.

A member of the United Kingdom's Bahá’í Reviewing Board calls the book "a moving story... a very remarkable novel and one that should help us understand the travail of the Iranian Bahá’ís ... gives credible insights into the situation...."

Both books were expected to be available in early March.

ORDER FORM

Quan. Amt. All Flags Flying, HC $20.00 All Flags Flying, SC 10.00 Bahá’í Datebook 2.00 Bahá’í Pocket Calendar 10/1.85 Bahá’í Faith in America, HC 19.95 The Divine Art of Living, SC 7.95 Leo Tolstoy and the Bahá’í Faith, HC 9.95 Leo Tolstoy and the Bahá’í Faith, SC 4.75 Prayers and Meditations-British Ed., HC 11.00 Promise of World Peace-Deluxe Ed., HC 30.00 Promise of World Peace-Presentation Ed., SC 3.00 The Master in ‘Akká, HC 11.95 Promise of World Peace-Study Ed., SC .75 O God, Guide Me!, SC 3.95 Touchstone of Sincerity, SC 6.50 Once to Every Man and Nation, SC 5.95 Unrestrained as the Wind, SC 7.95 Unto Him Shall We Return, SC 7.95 Peace: More Than an End to War, HC $16.00 Peace: More Than an End to War, SC 8.95 Per: Advent of Divine Justice, SC 4.25 Per: Synop, Codif of Kitáb-i-Aqdas, HC 2.50 Per: Tablets of the Divine Plan, SC 4.25

Total plus 10 per cent postage ($1.50 minimum for postage)

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

Credit card orders ($10.00 minimum) are accepted by phone: 800-323-1880 (outside Illinois), or 312-251-1854 (within Illinois). [Page 15]

Prayers and Meditations

-must reading during period of the Fast as we turn to inner life

During the Fast we turn our attention to our inner life and our link with God in a special and concentrated way. Prayers and Meditations, a collection of some of the most potent prayers of Bahá’u’lláh, can be an inspirational source to which we can turn at this uniquely important time of the year.

When Prayers and Meditations was first published, the Guardian's secretary wrote on his behalf: "He is pleased to know that the book of Prayers and Meditations by Bahá’u’lláh has been out in time to enable the friends to read it during the Fast, and he has every hope that the perusal of such a precious volume will help to deepen, more than any other publication, the spirit of devotion and faith in the friends, and thus charge them with all the spiritual power they require for the accomplishment of their tremendous duties towards the Cause."

Now, almost 40 years later, the challenge is still before us to renew and transform ourselves spiritually. With all of the proclamation opportunities presented by the peace statement and the International Year of Peace, with the ending of the Seven Year Plan and the beginning of the Six Year Plan, and with the goal of becoming ever more familiar with and reliant upon the Creative Word, we cannot ignore the advice of Shoghi Effendi, who could foresee our tremendous duties.

Prayers specifically for the Fast are found on pages 9-10, 67, 79-86, 143-46, 288-93, and 299. Prayers for spiritual sustenance appear on pages 126, 155, 234, 258, 261 and 299.

With these gems on which to meditate, we can surely spend our devotional hours in a way that will bring us closer to the "life-giving waters" of Bahá’u’lláh's Revelation.

Prayers and Meditations is presently available through the Bahá’í Distribution Service in hardcover only in the British Publishing Trust's edition for $11.

With one month left in the Seven Year Plan, we are eager to hear from you, our readers, about how this column has (or has not) helped to inspire you to fulfill the goal asking us to "pursue a nationwide campaign, with emphasis on the use of the Creative Word, designed to inspire every believer to live the Bahá’í life, thus demonstrating to their fellow-countrymen the beneficent effects of the Bahá’í way of life."

Any feedback or suggestions for future articles on specific books or topics would be welcome. Please address your responses to Anne Atkinson, Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091.

Thank you and Happy Naw-Rúz!

Review of Bahá’í Faith in America calls Faith 'an important new world religion'

A review of Robert Stockman's book, The Bahá’í Faith in America: Origins, 1892-1900, appeared in the December 1985 issue of Choice magazine, a monthly periodical that many acquisition librarians read to consider new books to purchase.

The review accurately summarizes the book, presents the Faith in a positive light, and recommends The Bahá’í Faith in America for all readers. It states:

"Stockman presents in very candid detail and with careful thoroughness the story of the introduction of the Bahá’í Faith in the U.S. and Canada.

"His book covers a very short period of the early development, organization, leadership and teachings of Bahá’í as it was received throughout the U.S. and Canada in the last decade of the 19th century.

"The basic teachings of Bahá’í as understood and interpreted by Ibrahim George Kheiralla are presented in much detail and with great clarity. Just as the presentation and reception of Bahá’í in America depended to a large extent on the thought and activity of Ibrahim Kheiralla, so, too, the greatest challenge and 'crisis' for this faith was caused by his disaffection from the Bahá’í Faith.

"The first of a three-volume study, this work is a fascinating and well-told story and an invaluable aid in better understanding a very important 'new' world religion. Extensive footnotes; bibliography; index. Highly recommended for all readers, though most appropriate for lower-division undergraduates and public library patrons."

Lights available

Lights of Guidance ($20 HC) is presently (as of late February) in stock at the Bahá’í Distribution Service. A limited number was received, so those who want a copy should order early.

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.

What'd I tell you—all the calendars are a sell-out! You're kidding! Nope—orders keep coming into the warehouse but there just aren't any left. Hmmmm—too bad. So what do the people think about all those calendars they just bought? Well, take a look right up there and read some responses to the new Datebook.

PUBLISHING TRUST

You've been waiting for years for it to be reprinted so you can once again give it to all your favorite friends, relatives and seekers.

You still refer to your old edition, which is dog-eared and worn from use. Or, as a new Bahá’í, you have heard older Bahá’ís talk about it as their favorite compilation.

The "it" we refer to is The Divine Art of Living—now updated, revised and expanded with two new chapters and a new cover.

"It" has been one of the most popular Bahá’í books for more than four decades—and finally, "it" has returned with an even broader scope to meet the needs of the present.

The new Divine Art of Living includes material on marriage and family life, child-rearing, peace and unity, and the importance of contributing to the regeneration of society—as well as on individual spiritual development.

All of these topics will help us work toward goals of the Six Year Plan.

Now that The Divine Art of Living has returned, we can all breathe a sigh of relief. And start reading!

The new edition of The Divine Art of Living, in softcover only, is available at $7.95 from the Bahá’í Distribution Service.

Questions, answers about peace compilation

Question: I have read with interest about your forthcoming compilation on peace. Now that our community has made detailed plans to present the peace statement in our area, how can we use the new compilation?

Publishing Trust: Peace: More Than an End to War, which will be available in early April, is the most comprehensive collection of the Bahá’í writings on peace to date. This means that it will be an excellent resource for community and personal deepening and will help us broaden—and truly deepen—our awareness of how the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh establishes the means to achieve peace and the reordering of human society. This will also help clarify our role—as individuals, as family members, and as Bahá’í communities—in the establishment of peace.

Q: Will the peace compilation be appropriate for non-Bahá’í readers?

BPT: Yes, it was compiled with a non-Bahá’í readership in mind. Thus it will be an important book to present to those who have been receptive to "The Promise of World Peace."

Addressing in detail the major points mentioned in the peace statement, it will answer many of the questions raised by those whose curiosity is piqued by the statement. It will also be a good book to give to libraries and to display at proclamation events. Persons to whom you may wish to consider giving the peace compilation include government officials, educators, clergy, service organizations, media people and individuals, especially those who have warmly received the peace statement. The second presentation could serve as a follow-up to previous contacts.

Q: How else will the new compilation be useful to us?

BPT: In many ways. For example, Peace: More Than an End to War can help us in working on the goals of the Six Year Plan. How? By helping to enlarge the status of the Faith in the world when we offer it to non-Bahá’í readers; by relating to the goal of increased distribution and use of Bahá’í literature; by promoting the understanding of the Bahá’í way of life; and by involving the Bahá’í community in the needs of the world around it through an increased awareness of the issues related to peace.

O God, Guide Me! reprinted

O God, Guide Me! Let the Sun of Reality shine upon them with Thy love. Let Thy breeze refresh them in order that they may be trained, grow and develop. and appear in the utmost beauty. Thou art the Giver. Thou art the Compassionate.

—‘Abdu’l-Bahá

A double-page spread of the new edition of O God, Guide Me!, a collection of prayers for children. The revised prayer book has a completely new design, one new prayer, and updated translations of others. The 22 interracial illustrations by the late Gordon Laite delight the eye and reinforce the meaning of the prayers. Recommended for children ages 3-7. Now available (in softcover only) for $3.75.

Friends respond to new Datebook

Several responses have come in from customers regarding the new Bahá’í Datebook 143 B.E.

The responses, which are as varied as they were last year, focus on changes in the Datebook—changes made necessary by rising costs for typesetting and production and by an interest in gradually shifting to the Bahá’í calendar system.

The following are representative of this year's responses:

"The datebooks are wonderful! It is a beautiful design, simple yet contains everything and then some. Thank you, thank you!"

"Most folks in this group feel the new 143 B.E. Datebook is useless. The format used in the 141 B.E. Datebook is generally considered (to be) the best in recent years. It is hoped that you might return to that model next year and stick with it."

"Please go back to making the calendars and datebooks from January through December or March. We can't use them the way they are now because in December we start making notes for January and February."

Readers are welcome to send in their own reactions to and comments about the new Datebook format. Please address them to: Special Materials Department, Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091. [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.

EMPLOYMENT

DEDICATED professionals are needed who are willing to use their skills and expertise to advance the affairs of the Faith in this country. The Bahá’í National Center, located near the Mother Temple of the West, is seeking qualified individuals to take part in ushering in the Six Year Plan. Service at the National Center can be exciting and challenging with many opportunities for activity in the surrounding communities and at the House of Worship. All positions at the National Center are paid and offer generous benefits. If you would like to explore the possibility of this form of service, please write to Karen Crenshaw, Department of Human Resources, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039. Following is a list of current vacancies at the National Center: Pioneer consultant (International Goals Committee office). Recruits, trains and counsels prospective pioneers, corresponds with and advises pioneers in the field. Must be mature with ability to understand political environments, climate, travel, languages, jobs and other adjustments required of pioneers. Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential. Strong organizational skills, general office experience and typing are required. Pioneering experience preferred. Assistant manager (External Affairs, New Haven, CT, office). Helps with public relations and media work relating to U.S. government agencies and reps, national media, national organizations and prominent individuals. Requires excellent verbal and written communication skills, strong organizational ability, typing at least 55 wpm.

Warriors

(from page 7)

individual efforts early this year, and within two weeks had raised up 10 new believers in the Old Town area of northern Virginia. Teams of youth and adults are going each weekend and systematically visiting the new believers and teaching in the area near where these individuals live. "Everyone is really excited and happy about the way things are going," says Khotan Shabazi of the metro D.C. District Youth Committee. "We've even had offers of help from youth in North Carolina. We hope this new enthusiasm will grow and grow."

If you'd like to become a part of these exciting efforts, contact the National Youth Committee for details. Better yet, we'd like to hear of the fresh initiatives launched in your area!

Administrative assistant (U.S. UN Representative, External Affairs, NY City office). Helps the U.S. UN Representative in preparing for briefings, conferences and special projects. Maintains files and accounts. High energy, college degree, good verbal and written communication skills, typing 55 wpm required. Fluency in a second language (European), basic accounting skills and public speaking skills are desirable. Secretarial assistant (Persian-American Affairs Committee office). Provides clerical support, greets visitors, makes appointments, helps with other projects. Good secretarial and organizational skills, typing 55 wpm, and fluency in Persian (written and verbal) are necessary, together with a pleasant demeanor and telephone manner. Records clerk (Office of Membership and Records). Helps maintain the National Spiritual Assembly's central files and membership and address records, processes transfers, performs data entry and responds to telephone inquiries. Typing 45-55 wpm, good spelling and eyesight are necessary. Persian preferred.

WANTED: Professional recording/engineering technician for Dawnbreakers Studio. Must be willing to move to the Los Angeles area. Down time used for Bahá’í projects. Live on premises. Send resumé to Garnie Day, San Fernando, CA 91340, or phone 818-365-5653 or 818-361-5766.

NEEDED: Printer with two years' experience on 11x17 offset press for a Bahá’í-owned commercial print shop and advertising paper. Send resumé, photo and Bahá’í history; also hobbies. We need more members to strengthen an Assembly. Write to Soldotna Printing, Soldotna, AK 99669 (Attn: Paul Gray), or phone 907-262-9000.

THE FEDERAL government has many openings for natural resource management positions. These jobs are often in rural areas, on Indian Reservations, or in U.S. Trust Territories. Some of them are: Soil Conservation Technician-458. Many openings; control number WA9028. When requesting information about this announcement, refer to SCT-NW-2. Soil Conservationist-457. Many openings; control number WA9027. When requesting information, refer to LS-NW-1. Soil Scientist-470. Many openings nationwide; control number WA9030. When requesting information, refer to LS-NW-1. Range Conservationist-454. Control number, WA9026; announcement, LS-NW-1. Mailing address for any of the above is U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service, Attn: SEU, P.O. Box 37636, Washington, DC 20013 (phone 202-447-5748).

PIONEERING (HOMEFRONT)

BROWNSVILLE, Texas, invites potential homefront pioneers to help establish a functioning Assembly. Brownsville, directly across from Matamoros on the Mexican border, enjoys an appealing cultural diversity and a sub-tropical climate, which has made it the home of choice for many retirees. Teachers are presently in demand, and there is a fair amount of manufacturing done by U.S. companies across the border in Mexico. Brownsville has a small university, a world famous zoo, and quick access to the beach—it's a great place to be! For information, contact Steven Ramirez, Boca Chica Road, Brownsville, TX 78520, or phone 512-541-6562.

BRUNSWICK (pop. 18,000) is a thriving coastal Maine community with two hospitals, a Naval Air Station and Bowdoin College, eight miles from Bath (Bath Iron Works, Bath Memorial Hospital), 20 miles from Lewiston, and 30 miles from Augusta or Portland. The naval base and college, among other things, help give Brunswick a fair amount of racial and ethnic diversity. Housing is available at moderate prices. We are now a Group of six adults, one youth and seven children, and have established a Bahá’í presence in the town. We warmly welcome anyone who would like to come help our community grow. Contact Patty Whyte, secretary, Brunswick, ME 04011 (phone 207-725-6238).

NEEDED: One homefront pioneer to save the jeopardized Assembly and help create a unified Persian/American community in Speedway, Indiana. For more information, write to Mr. or Mrs. Spicklemyer, Speedway, IN 46224; phone them at 317-248-9099, or phone Mr. or Mrs. Loghmani, 317-299-6052.

COME to Kentucky! The District Teaching Committee beckons you to the Bluegrass State. We can use homefront pioneers in Richmond, a university town with four active Bahá’ís; Lancaster, where help is needed to consolidate a mass-taught Assembly; Jessamine County, near Lexington; St. Matthews, near Louisville and close to Assembly status; Bowling Green, a university town with an active Bahá’í community; and Hopkinsville, a nice town near the "Land Between the Lakes" with an active Bahá’í family. Kentucky is a lovely and friendly state in which to live, with mild weather and many employment opportunities opening up in the auto industry. If you would like to know more, please write to William Wiley, Kentucky District Teaching Committee, Frankfort, KY 40601, or phone him at 505-875-5962.

HAVE UNITY... need diversity! The Spiritual Assembly of Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania, numerically jeopardized, needs at least one more member by Ridván. This loving Bahá’í community, situated in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch country, is composed entirely of Caucasians and would love to assimilate some Persian, black, Spanish-American, Cambodian or other minority believers into the "family," although we would welcome any lover of Bahá’u’lláh! Please write to P.O. Box 50, Elizabethtown, PA 17022, or phone 717-367-5075, and we'll fill you in on statistics (college town, low unemployment, low taxes, lovely rural setting, good public transportation to larger cities, etc.).

HOMEFRONT pioneers are needed to help save a jeopardized Assembly in Northeast Harris County, Texas, a suburb of Houston. There are presently seven Bahá’ís here, four living in Kingwood, whose bike trails, pools, library and schools make it an ideal community for families. The school district was recognized by President Reagan in 1985 for excellence. Kingwood is 30 minutes from downtown Houston; property values are stable in a buyer's market. Help save our Assembly and lend a helping hand to a small but active Group in an upper middle class community. Write to Joe and Robin Cain, Kingwood, TX 77339, or phone (evenings) 713-359-2876.

SEEKING pioneer support for Blackfeet, Crow, Northern Cheyenne and Fort Peck Indian Reservations in Montana to maintain or renew Assembly status. Also desire pioneers on the Fort Belknap Reservation. Inquire c/o the District Teaching Committee Secretary, Topaz Dosen, Bozeman, MT 59715.

THE GROUP of five Bahá’ís on Nantucket Island, Massachusetts, needs help in re-forming its Assembly. Tourism, real estate and construction are the largest businesses. There are three schools (high school is expanding), a home for the aged, hospital, insurance businesses, several airlines, etc. The hospital needs a doctor for x-rays. Housing is expensive and tight, especially in the summer, but wages are high. Write to Anna Hall, Nantucket, MA 02554, or phone 617-228-2904.

ONLY ONE more Bahá’í is needed to maintain the Assembly in Braintree, Massachusetts, close to the ocean, within commuting distance of Boston, and about an hour from Cape Cod. Unemployment in the state is about three to four percent; the Bahá’ís of Braintree will help in any way they can in locating housing and employment. Write to Esther Rastegari, Braintree, MA 02184, or phone 617-848-8663 and leave a message on the recorder.

HEALDSBURG, California, a town of 9,000 in beautiful Sonoma County, 70 miles north of San Francisco, needs homefront pioneers by Ridván to save its Assembly. Nearby are a state university and junior college, as well as employment opportunities in electronics. The Assembly has been established for more than 20 years and has a loving, active community of believers. P.S.—Healdsburg is only a few miles from the original Bosch Bahá’í School in Geyserville.

COME to beautiful Vermont, a lovely place to live, work, study and, above all, become a homefront pioneer in a goal area. Vermont offers employment opportunities in education, high tech firms, tourism, construction and service industries. There are several good universities and medical centers. For more information, contact the District Teaching Committee of Vermont, c/o Khodadad Varahramyan, Colchester, VT 05446, or phone 802-864-4430.

PIONEERING (OVERSEAS)

NIGERIA, a goal country for the Seven Year Plan, has academic vacancies in its universities; positions from lecturers to full professors. Applicants should have an advanced degree and recent university experience in one or more of these disciplines: engineering; computer science; physical, chemical or biological sciences; environmental design, architecture or surveying; medical sciences; business management; agriculture; mass communication; law; social sciences; veterinary medicine; education; general and religious studies; physical education; library sciences; theatre arts; or fine and applied arts. For more information, contact the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312-869-9039).

THE NATIONAL Spiritual Assembly of Panama is looking for a couple to be in charge of public relations at the Bahá’í House of Worship in that country. Must be bilingual (Spanish/English), without small children, financially independent, and have ability to relate to the public. In return, housing, utilities and transportation within the country will be provided. For more information, contact the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

SETTLE in sunny Hawaii to help strengthen local Spiritual Assemblies, a goal of the Seven Year Plan. Two communities on the Big Island of Hawaii need immediate settler families: North Hilo (40 minutes from the University of Hawaii-Hilo campus) and Ka'u, a remote area as lovely as Tahiti with a black sand beach and high school, a picturesque community for an artist, writer or someone who can offer a community service such as tutoring in manual skills or the performing arts—preferably a retired couple or someone of independent means. The other target area is the filming location for the movie "South Pacific," on Kauai, north of the most populated island, Oahu. The community is Hanalei, a remote resort featuring the famous golf course of Princeville, exotic rainbows, and miles of white sand beaches. Again, one needs independent means to set up a business for tourists or offer some community service; Hanalei is about an hour and a half from the county seat, in Lihue. There is an additional opportunity for a beekeeper to work on Niihau, an island that is inaccessible to outsiders except when a certain skill is needed. Should an expert beekeeper be available, this would be an outstanding opportunity for a pioneer. If you wish to consider filling any of these goals, or would like further information about them, please phone the National Teaching Committee of Hawaii, Robert McClelland, chairman, 808-922-6926, or Scarlett O'Hara Bill, secretary, 808-322-3564.

A UNIVERSITY on the island of Macau (near Hong Kong) needs a professor in chemistry and math for the upcoming September term. MS degree is preferred, but applicants may qualify with a bachelor's degree. Fluency in English is required; knowledge of Portuguese would also be helpful although not required. The work requires approximately 15 hours per week. Good salary. If you would like more information about the position, write to the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

HOTEL manager is needed in Cyprus. Applicants should be 35 or older, have a degree in hotel management, and at least five years experience. Experience in accounting preferred. A generous salary program is included. Cyprus, in the Mediterranean Sea, [Page 17]

CLASSIFIEDS

is a goal of the Seven Year Plan. For more information, contact the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312-869-9039).

TRAVELING TEACHERS

SPIRITUAL Assemblies: We are willing to send traveling teachers to more affluent Assembly areas in return for help in raising funds for a much-needed Bahá’í Center in Florence, South Carolina, the heart of mass teaching, WLGI Radio, and the spirit of Tabarsi. We have everything but money! If interested, please write to Anne Breneman, secretary, Spiritual Assembly of Florence, P.O. Box 4323, Florence, SC 29501 (phone 803-667-1540).

TRAVELING teachers are needed in Florence, South Carolina, to help win the goal of 1,000 avowed believers by Ridván 1986. Bring sleeping bag and car, if possible. For information about hospitality, phone Dr. or Mrs. Rassekh, 803-667-8140. Come join the spirit of Tabarsi!

BAHÁ’Í SCHOOLS

SUMMER jobs at the Green Acre Bahá’í School: cooks, program directors, staff for the children's and youth programs, nursery supervisor, book sales, librarian, kitchen, housekeeper. Please contact the Green Acre Bahá’í School, P.O. Box 17, Eliot, ME 03903.

GREEN Acre Volunteer Program: Many skills are needed, especially carpentry and painting; room and board provided. If you have a weekend, a week, or even more in which to help, please contact the Green Acre Bahá’í School, P.O. Box 17, Eliot, ME 03903.

COULD you receive college credit for working in the Green Acre School's program for children or youth this summer? Excellent experience, good for your resumé. Contact the Green Acre Bahá’í School, P.O. Box 17, Eliot, ME 03903.

ARCHIVES

WANTED: Original Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to the following individuals, with approximate dates of the Tablets: Louise Dixon Boyle, Washington, DC (1913); Edward Braithwaite, Washington, DC (1911); Mrs. Rose Constance Byrne, Sandusky, OH (1909); Dr. Sarah F.K. Burgess, Chicago (1904); Mamie Agnew, Chicago (1909); Mary Serrant Burton, Echo Mountain, CA (1909); and Miss Margaret Campbell, St. Louis, MO (1908). Anyone having information about the possible location of these Tablets is asked to contact the National Bahá’í Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

THE NATIONAL Bahá’í Archives has available a guide to those collections open for research. The 19-page guide covers 149 collections of institutional records, personal papers, community histories and personal recollections, giving the collection title, quantity, and some information about contents and significance. The guide can be ordered for $2 from the National Bahá’í Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

WANTED

A COUPLE is wanted to be house parents at Penn Center in Frogmore, South Carolina, in the beautiful coastal area near Charleston and Hilton Head. Salary is $11,000 plus room, board and the use of a van. Children are okay, but as this work is with boys, male children are preferable. Contact Larry Perry, Mental Health, Beaufort, SC 29902, or Amber Spahn, secretary, Southern No. 2 District Teaching Committee, P.O. Box 236, Frogmore, SC 29920 (phone 803-838-5453). Come join the wonderful, active South Carolina Bahá’í community and help with expansion and consolidation in the lovely coastal areas!

WANTED: Bahá’í who is willing to mail his/her copies of The American Bahá’í to a pioneer, Frank Paccassi, Box 669, Castries, St. Lucia, West Indies. Please mail direct to him.

THE OFFICE of Public Affairs at the Bahá’í National Center would like to hear from Spanish-speaking Bahá’ís who can help in the development of national media materials. Help is needed with straight translations, which means taking current materials and translating them into Spanish. Also, Bahá’ís with radio and TV talent including script writing and creative conceptual ability are needed to produce scripts and generate ideas. If you can help with these efforts and/or you own or have access to radio and TV production facilities, contact Marcia LeRoy, National Audio-Visual Program coordinator, Bahá’í Office of Public Affairs, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312-869-9039).

WANTED: For future projects, Bahá’ís with radio and/or television talent including script writing and creative conceptual ability to help develop national media materials. If you can help in this way and/or you own or have access to radio and TV production facilities, contact Marcia LeRoy, National Audio-Visual Program coordinator, Bahá’í Office of Public Affairs, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312-869-9039).

I AM looking for articles, papers and information about Dr. Daniel C. Jordan and his work with the ANISA model. I'm particularly interested in any research findings on the applications and implementation of the ANISA model in school programs. Please write to Marylou Krummenacker, Las Cruces, NM 88001, or phone 505-522-7834.

WANTED: Bahá’í music groups to perform August 1-3 at a Bahá’í weekend school and at a proclamation in the beautiful mountains of southwestern Colorado in the quaint, historic mining town of Telluride, in a county that needs to be opened to the Faith. You'll also have an opportunity to bring warmth and love to an isolated area of the American Bahá’í community. Write to Messel McHugh, Durango, CO 81301, or phone 303-247-0732.

SERVICES

HAVE WORKSHOP, will travel—or provide correspondence class. The Radiant Community is (1) a series of three weekend workshops designed for medium-sized Bahá’í communities (18-90 adults, 6-30 youth and children); (2) designed to facilitate consultation leading to action upon the socio-economic needs of your community; and (3) grounded in the Writings: Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, The Hidden Words, Bahá’í World Faith, Tablets of the Divine Plan, Selected Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the peace statement, and the message from the Universal House of Justice on social and economic development (October 1983). For more information please write to Ann Schoonmaker (Anya Boyd), P.O. Box 283, Eliot, ME 03903, or phone 207-439-3306.

ARE WE READY for world peace? Is the world ready for world peace? "The Psycho-Historical Challenge of World Peace" is a series of three special proclamation programs designed to appeal to mature college or university audiences: 1. The Inner Tasks for World Peace; 2. Unveiling the Feminine Potential; 3. World-Wide Quality Circles: Learning to Benefit from Diversity. The program includes step-by-step guide on how to involve professors plus necessary publicity materials for your college group of dedicated students to follow for maximum coverage. Plan ahead for late spring or early fall. For more information please write to Ann Schoonmaker (Anya Boyd), P.O. Box 283, Eliot, ME 03903, or phone 207-439-3306.

MISCELLANEOUS

THE FIRST Regional Youth Conference in Richmond, Virginia, will be held the weekend of April 4-6. The $49 cost ($54 for those registering after Naw-Rúz) includes registration, motel housing and all meals. For more information, please contact Sohail Dadressan, registrar, Baltimore, MD 21239, or phone 301-339-7214.

HOMECOMING in Frankfort, Kentucky. In May 1986, the Spiritual Assembly of Frankfort will celebrate its 10th anniversary with a homecoming celebration. If you have ever been a Bahá’í in Frankfort or Franklin County and we have lost touch with you, please write to Sally Wiley, corresponding secretary, Frankfort, KY 40601, or phone 502-875-5962.

A FREE GIFT to those who have learned the international language, Esperanto: Receptoj por Fruktoj Frandaĵoj. Send a stamped self-addressed envelope to Darlene Evans, P.O. Box 203, Hartford, IA 50118. For those who would like to learn Esperanto, ask for the free 10-lesson course.

BAHÁ’Í radio operators: the second issue of Callbook was issued about a year ago. If you did not receive one, or have moved or upgraded, send your name, address and call to be included in the third issue to Terry Bebertz, Vassar, MI 48768.

Awards

of the state of Ohio. She holds honorary doctorate degrees from the University of Cincinnati and Wilberforce (Ohio) University.

Dr. Austin has served on Bahá’í administrative institutions on the local and national levels including membership on the U.S. National Spiritual Assembly and on the first regional National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of North and West Africa.

In 1975 Dr. Austin headed a Bahá’í delegation to the International Women's Year tribute in Mexico City. In 1982 she was a member of the Phelps Stokes study team that did research in the People's Republic of China, and in that same year she was a speaker at the International Bahá’í Conference in Lagos, Nigeria.

Dr. Austin is the first Bahá’í to receive the Louis Gregory Award from the National Assembly.

Dr. Brown, recognized as one of the outstanding choral directors in the country, has dedicated her musical gifts through Singing City, an all-amateur choir, to the search for achieving peace and harmony among people of various cultural, economic and religious backgrounds.

A conscious effort has been made not only to involve a diverse group of people in the choir but to instill in them an acceptance of and a caring for one another.

The choir has performed in schools, churches, synagogues, hospitals and retirement homes, in the streets of Philadelphia and in concerts with such renowned conductors as Eugene Ormandy, Leonard Bernstein, Zubin Mehta and Riccardo Muti.

Since its inception, the choir has grown from a small chorus to a significant musical organization that has recorded with major orchestras and conductors and has given as many as 36 concerts a year.

Dr. Brown, who has remained the director and guiding spirit of Singing City, is a former member of the distinguished panel of choral advisers to the National Endowment for the Arts, and a lecturer and guest conductor who is in constant demand throughout the country.

She is Professor Emerita at Temple University in Philadelphia and has been the recipient of numerous honors including the Gimbel Philadelphia Award, the Prix d'Exellence from the French government, the B'nai B'rith Interfaith Award, and the award of the National Conference of Christians and Jews.

Dr. Brown holds honorary degrees from Villanova University and the Philadelphia Conservatory of Music.

Among the selections performed by the Singing Choir at the Gregory Award presentation were two Bahá’í prayers, "Blessed Is the Spot" and "O Thou, by whose name..." set to music by Charles Wolcott.

Other music ranged from parts of the Brahms "Requiem," which the choir recently performed with the Philadelphia Orchestra, to the Negro spiritual, "My Lord, what a mornin'," which closed the program.

The Bedrock of All Other Institutions

National Bahá’í Fund Wilmette, IL 60091

All Flags Flying!

by William Sears

If You Loved "Laughter"... THEN YOU'LL LOVE

Much has happened to the Sears family since the writing of God Loves Laughter, and here are more hilarious stories of their travels, with an interweaving of the basic teachings of the Bahá’í Faith and tributes to pioneers and collaborators with Mr. Sears.

Delightfully illustrated by Robert Reeds. 360 pp. 21.3 x 13.7 cm (8 x 5 in.) illustrations

Bahá’í Distribution Service 415 LINDEN AVENUE WILMETTE, IL

Please send me the following copies of All Flags Flying Hardcover $20.00 Softcover $10.00 Please add shipping charges of 10% Minimum $1.50

Name Address City State Zip [Page 18]

Se anuncian comienza de Plan de Seis Años y Año Sagrado para 1992

A los bahá’ís del mundo

Muy amados amigos,

La esperanza emocionada con que dimos la bienvenida el 27 de diciembre a sesenticuatro Consejeros de los cinco continentes al Centro Mundial para consultar con el Centro Internacional de Enseñanza sobre los desafíos y las oportunidades que enfrentan a la comunidad mundial bahá’í, se ha trasmutado, al concluir su conferencia histórica, en sentimientos de la más profunda alegría, gratitud y amor.

Agraciada por la presencia de las Manos de la Causa Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum, Ugo Giachery, ‘Alí-Akbar Furútan, ‘Alí-Muhammad Varqá y Collis Featherstone, la Conferencia fue organizada y administrada con previsión y eficiencia admirables por el Centro Internacional de Enseñanza, cuyos miembros individuales velaron por, y sirvieron incansablemente, las necesidades de los participantes y el progreso de la Conferencia misma.

Convocada en el salón de actos de la Sede de la Casa Universal de Justicia mientras los Consejeros del mundo bahá’í entraban en su nuevo período de servicio de cinco años; a pocos meses de la terminación del Plan de Siete Años y el inicio del nuevo Plan de Seis Años; su atmósfera realzada por las potencialidades espirituales de los Santuarios Sagrados y el sentido eufórico de victoria y bendición que penetra el mundo bahá’í entero en la actualidad; la Conferencia alcanzó tales alturas de exaltación, espiritualidad y poder consultivos como sólo quienes servimos a la Bendita Belleza podemos gozar.

El crecimiento orgánico de la Causa de Dios, indicado por recientes desenvolvimientos significativos en su vida, se hace notablemente aparente a la luz de los principales objetivos y expectaciones del Plan de Seis Años: una expansión vasta de los recursos numéricos y financieros de la Causa; el engrandecimiento de su prestigio en el mundo; un incremento mundial en la producción, distribución y utilización de la literature bahá’í; una demostración más firme y mundial del modo de vida bahá’í, que requiere consideración especial de la educación bahá’í de los niños y jóvenes, el fortalecimiento de la vida familiar bahá’í, y atención a la participación universal y al enriquecimiento espiritual de la vida individual; aceleración adicional en el proceso de la maduración de comunidades locales y nacionales y una consolidación dinámica de la unidad de las dos ramas del Orden Administrativo; la extensión de la participación de la comunidad mundial bahá’í en las necesidades del mundo que la rodea; y el proseguimiento del desarrollo social y económico en comunidades bahá’ís bien establecidas. Estos son algunos de los rasgos del Plan de Seis Años que empezará el 21 de abril de 1986 y terminará el 20 de abril de 1992.

El Ridván de 1992 señalará el comienzo de un Año Sagrado, durante el cual se observará el Centenario de la Ascensión de Bahá’u’lláh por medio de conmemoraciones alrededor del mundo, y la inauguración de Su Convenio se celebrará en la Ciudad del Convenio, mediante la realización del segundo Congreso Mundial Bahá’í.

Los amados Consejeros, fortalecidos y enriquecidos por sus experiencias en Tierra Santa, consultarán tan pronto como sea posible con todas las Asambleas Espirituales Nacionales sobre medidas para concluir triunfalmente el Plan actual, y sobre preparaciones para lanzar el Plan de Seis Años. Anticipadamente a esas consultas, las Asambleas Espirituales Nacionales recibirán el anuncio completo de los propósitos y las características de ese Plan para que, junto con los Consejeros, puedan formular los planes nacionales que, para cada comunidad, establecerán su proseguimiento de los objetivos generales.

Este nuevo proceso, por medio del cual las Asambleas Espirituales Nacionales y los Cuerpos Continentales de Consejeros habrán de formular en gran medida las metas nacionales del próximo Plan, señala la inauguración de una nueva etapa en el desenvolvimiento del Orden Administrativo. Nuestro amado Guardián previó una sucesión de épocas durante la Edad Formativa de la Fe; no vacilamos en reconocer que este nuevo desenvolvimiento en la maduración de las instituciones bahá’ís señala el inicio de la cuarta época de esa Edad.

Shoghi Effendi percibió en la vida orgánica de la Causa una dialéctica de victoria y crisis. Los triunfos sin precedentes, generados por la firmeza inquebrantable de los amigos iraníes, inevitablemente provocarán oposición para probar y aumentar nuestra fuerza. Que cada bahá’í del mundo tenga la seguridad que cualquier cosa que suceda a esta creciente Fe de Dios no es sino evidencia incontrovertible del cuidado amoroso con que el Rey de la Gloria y Su Heraldo martirizado, mediante el incomparable Centro de Su Convenio y nuestro amado Guardián, están preparando a Sus humildes seguidores para un triunfo final y magnífico. Nuestras oraciones amorosas les acompañan a todos ustedes.

La Casa Universal de Justicia 2 de enero de 1986

Counsellor Harris to speak in Nebraska

Counsellor Robert Harris will be among the speakers March 22-23 at a Peace Conference sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Lincoln, Nebraska.

The conference theme is "Pathway to Peace." Mr. Harris will be the keynote speaker at a sitdown dinner Saturday evening, March 22.

The conference will include five workshops: "The Importance of Women," led by Auxiliary Board member Ronna Santoscoy; "International Language/Communication Skills" (June Knudsen-Fritz); "Consultation" (Collin Taylor); "The Oneness of Mankind" (Dr. Dan Rae), and a special workshop for older children and youth led by Auxiliary Board member Robert Postlethwaite.

Information is available from Ruth Hansen, Lincoln, NE 68510 (phone 402-489-1570); reservations can be made through Robert Walker, Lincoln, NE 68503 (phone 402-477-9076).

Cursillo de estudio profundiza conocimientos de La Casa Universal de Justicia y de ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Los articulos siguientes son tomados de un "Curso de Información Bahá’í" escrito en Argentina. El curso consta de material tomado del libro El Nuevo Jardin por Hushmand Fatheazam.

Para más información sobre este curso, por favor escribe al: National Teaching Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

La Casa Universal de Justicia

Una de las instituciones únicas de la Fe Bahá’í es la Casa Universal de Justicia cuyos miembros están elegidos entre los bahá’ís de todo el mundo por medio de sus Asambleas Espirituales Nacionales.

Bahá’u’lláh nos ha asegurado que Él continuará guiando a los bahá’ís por medio de la Casa Universal de Justicia durante la Dispensación Bahá’í.

Bahá’u’lláh nos ha dado las leyes fundamentales y las enseñanzas de Dios para esta edad, pero Él ha dicho que necesitaremos otras leyes también, las cuales tendrán que ser establecidas gradualmente de acuerdo con nuestras necesidades cambiantes.

Estas reglas y disposiciones sociales, dijo Bahá’u’lláh, deben ser establecidas por la Casa Universal de Justicia, la cual estará siempre bajo la guía infalible de Dios.

La Casa Universal de Justicia no cambiará aquellos principios fundamentales que Bahá’u’lláh nos ha dado. Lo que hará es sentar reglamentos que nos guiarán a llevar a cabo las leyes de Bahá’u’lláh.

Por ejemplo, Bahá’u’lláh ha ordenado que tengamos un idioma universal en el mundo, pero no ha mencionado cuál idioma debe ser. Esto se ha dejado para la Casa Universal de Justicia lo decida.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá: El ejemplo perfecto de como vivir las enseñanzas y los principios de Bahá’u’lláh

‘Abdu’l-Bahá fue el exponente de la Fe de Dios, el intérprete de los escritos de Bahá’u’lláh, y el perfecto ejemplar de sus enseñanzas. Bahá’u’lláh lo ha llamado "El Misterio de Dios."

‘Abdu’l-Bahá significa el "siervo de la Gloria" o "siervo de Bahá’u’lláh." ‘Abdu’l-Bahá era el hijo primigénito de Bahá’u’lláh y nació el 23 de mayo de 1844, la misma noche en que el Báb annunció su misión.

Tenía solamente 8 años cuando Bahá’u’lláh fue encerrado en la terrible mazmorra. Desde muy temprana edad estaba deseoso de compartir los sufrimientos de su padre amado.

Acompaño a Bahá’u’lláh en la difícil jornada de Tihrán a Baghdad, y pasó 40 años de su vida en la prisión o el exilio.

Cuando ‘Abdu’l-Bahá fue finalmente puesto en libertad, era un hombre anciano. Pero el amor de Dios lo había conservado feliz en las horas más amargas de su vida.

Su felicidad espiritual era tan profunda que ni siquiera las prisiones más tenebrosas se la pudieran quitar. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá quería que nosotros gozáramos de esta clase de felicidad. El dijo:

"La felicidad es de dos clases: fisica y espiritual. La felicidad fisica es limitada. No dura más de un día, un mes, un año. No tiene resultado. La felicidad espiritual aparece en el alma, con el amor de Dios y hace desear y obtener las virtudes y perfecciones de la humanidad."

A pesar de que era sólo un niño, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá reconoció el rango de su padre. Se arrojó a sus pies y le rogó que lo aceptase como un sacrificio a su causa.

Desde aquel día, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá brindó su vida al servicio de Bahá’u’lláh y sacrificó cualquier comodidad.

Ganó el respeto y el amor de los seguidores de Bahá’u’lláh desde muy temprana edad, y más tarde fue conocido entre ellos como "el Maestro."

Cuando Bahá’u’lláh murió, y fue abierto su testamento, el cual es llamado el "Libro del Convenio," los bahá’ís se alegraron al saber que Bahá’u’lláh había nombrado a ‘Abdu’l-Bahá como el Centro de su Convenio y que lo había autorizado como intérprete de sus enseñanzas.

El nombramiento del Centro del Convenio es una característica única de la Fe Bahá’í. Todas las religiones del pasado se han dividido después de la muerte de su fundador, ya que los seguidores no sabían a qué atenerse o a quién dirigirse.

Empezaban entonces a interpretar las enseñanzas de Dios como ellos las entendían y como no las entendían de la misma manera, estas enseñanzas eran explicadas en diferentes formas.

Esto, por supuesto, fue la causa de desunión entre los seguidores de las religiones antiguas. En la Fe Bahá’í, sin embargo, el caso ha sido diferente.

Bahá’u’lláh, que había venido a disolver toda clase de desunión entre los pueblos del mundo, no permitió que la Fe Bahá’í se dividiera. Escribió un documento en el que designo a ‘Abdu’l-Bahá como aquel a quien todos los bahá’ís deberían volverse, pidiéndole guía en cualquier asunto que se relacionara con sus enseñanzas.

Este documento, el "Libro del Convenio," salvó a los bahá’ís de la división.

Preguntas

1. Cómo explicaría ud. los títulos de ‘Abdu’l-Bahá: "El Misterio de Dios" y "El Siervo de la Gloria"?

2. Imaginese que esté en una prisión sin aqua potable, sin mucha comida, sin poder ver flores ni árboles. No puede salir para pasear y jugar. Podría estar feliz? Cuánto tiempo podría aguantar esa condición.

3. Qué es su entendimiento de la palabra "convenio"?

Oscar P. Stone

Oscar P. Stone, a Bahá’í from New Haven, Connecticut, received the President's Award from the New England chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture during the recent annual meeting in Worcester, Massachusetts. Mr. Stone has served the past seven years as editor for the New England Chapter of ISA and is also secretary and editor for the Connecticut Tree Protective Association, the oldest arboriculture educational group in the U.S. Mr. Stone, who became a Bahá’í as a youth in West Englewood, New Jersey, in 1931, has worked in the tree care field for more than 40 years. He is now a consultant and teaches tree care at Quinnipiac College in Hamden, Connecticut.

‘U.S. Bahá’í Report’ aids in presentations to public officials

The winter 1985-86 issue of U.S. Bahá’í Report is a perfect companion piece for official presentations of "The Promise of World Peace."

The issue features the presentation of the peace statement to President Reagan, using the same photographs that appeared in December in the special issue of The American Bahá’í.

It also reports on the human rights resolution by the UN General Assembly on behalf of the bahá’ís in Iran, and the meeting between UN Secretary-General Javier Pérez de Cuéllar and the Hand of the Cause of God Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum.

Assemblies that would like to order multiple copies for use in their communities should contact Bahá’í Subscriber Service, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039. There is a nominal charge per issue.

Los Angeles Bahá’ís honor Dr. King with public meeting, film

On Sunday, January 19, the Bahá’í community of Los Angeles, California, observed the anniversary of the birth of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a public meeting at the Los Angeles Bahá’í Center at which "I Have a Dream," a filmed documentary of Dr. King's life and his contributions to world peace, was presented.

The program also included a presentation of Dr. King's 1967 speech entitled "Beyond Vietnam."

Holiday cards and notecards from Amnesty International

Capitol Hill Group 202-544-3897

For color folder call or write: AMNESTY CARDS 636 E St. S.E., Washington, D.C. 20003 [Page 19]

Iran: Quite a diverse country

Iran is a country of 630,000 square miles (that makes it somewhat larger in size than Alaska) and a population (as of 1971) of 30 million people. By contrast, the 1980 population of California was around 26 million.

Although we have been conditioned to think of Iran and Iranians as a monolithic entity, in reality Iran is a quite diverse country. For example, in addition to the Shi’ite majority, there are many Sunnis (especially among the Kurds and Turkmen), about 200,000 Christians, 70,000 Jews, 25,000 Zoroastrians and 350,000 Bahá’ís. Many converts to the Bahá’í Faith over the last 100 years or so have been from the minority populations, especially Jewish and Zoroastrian.

Despite the fact that Persian (Farsi) is the official language of Iran taught in the schools, nearly half the country’s population speaks a mother tongue other than Persian. Other languages include Azari, Turkish, Armenian and several other Iranian dialects.

At the next Nineteen Day Feast, ask your Persian friends about their family’s religious background, or what part of Iran they come from. You may be surprised to learn that just because you’ve met one Iranian, it does not necessarily follow that you know them all.

For instance, the northeastern province of Iran is known as Khurasan. Here we find the city of Mashhad, the resting place of the eighth Imam and a site of pilgrimage for Shi’ites. Khurasan has produced many renowned poets, scientists, philosophers and politicians including the poet-astronomer Omar Khayyam from the city of Nayshabur.

The area to the north of Tehran along the southern shore of the Caspian Sea is known as Mazandaran, where Bahá’u’lláh’s ancestral home was located. It is a beautiful place, lush and humid, whose inhabitants are said to be proud and independent.

To the northwest, between the borders of Turkey and the Soviet Union, lies the province of Adharbayjan and its capital city, Tabriz, where the Báb was martyred. This area is populated largely by Azari Turks, whose mother tongue is a blend of Turkish and Persian.

Isfahan, a city in central Iran, has been called “Isfahan-nisf-i-jahan” (Isfahan, half the world), because of its importance and beauty. It was the capital city of the Safavid dynasty beginning in the 16th century, and can lay claim to the greatest masterpieces of Islamic architecture.

Shiraz, to the south, is the lyrical city of poets, birthplace of Hafiz and Sa’di, and, of course, birthplace of the Báb. Shiraz is famous for its lovely gardens and flowers, as well as for the sweet accent of its inhabitants.

Tehran, on the other hand, is a sprawling urban metropolis, in many ways like any large modern city of the west. Because it is the capital and the city with the largest population, most Iranian Bahá’ís you know probably lived in Tehran before coming to the United States.

But ask them about their background. They might have come from Qazvin like Tahirih, or, like Hujjat, another Bábí hero, from the town of Zanjan, or they may have known one of the martyrs of Yazd.

Whatever their background, ask them about the personal experience of having been a Bahá’í in Iran, of growing up as a member of a religious minority. We should be able to learn something from their experience that will help to strengthen the Bahá’í community here in the United States.

---

در بخش انگلیسی این ماه شرحی در مورد مردم ایران و تنوع آب و هوا و فرهنگ و زبان و مذهب ملت ما نوشته شده است. خطابش با احبّای آمریکا است و آنان را تشویق باین مینماید که بایاران مهد امرالله درآمیزند و آنانرا از نزدیکتر بشناسند و جویای آن شوند که تجربه آنان را در رشد در جامعه‌ای بعنوان یک اقلیت مجهول مذهبی بیاموزند زیرا این دانش یاران آمریکا را در تقویت جامعه امری این سامان یاری خواهد نمود.

اهداف با قیماندهٔ مهاجرت بین‌المللی

Goal Country	Number Needed
AFRICA		‎افرفا افریقا‎
(F) Mauritania	2
AMERICAS		آمریکای جنوبی
*(S) Argentina	3
(S) Easter Island	1
(E) Dominica	1
(S) Ecuador, Galapagos Is.	1
*(F) French Guiana	1
AUSTRALASIA		استرالیا و جزائر
(E) Tuvalu	2	پاسفیک

• Replacement goals.

LANGUAGE KEY E—English F—French S—Spanish

لجنهٔ مهاجرت بین‌المللی ضمن مقاله‌ای یادآور شده‌اند که کسانی که فکر میکنند که واجد شرایط برای اسفار تبلیغی نمیباشند باید متوجه این نکته باشند که صرف سفر به نقطه‌ای دیگر و در حیات جامعه بهائی آن نقطه شرکت نمودن عبارت خواهد بود از سفر تبلیغی. جمال قدم میفرمایند: «نفس حرکت لوجه‌الله در عالم مؤثر بوده»

در قبرس به مدیر هتل نیاز دارند. متقاضیان بایستی از سنّ ۳۵ ببالا و دارای مدرک مدیریت هتل و لا اقل ۵ سال تجربه باشند. اگر در حسابداری هم تجربه دارند بمرجّح است. حقوق و مزایا مکفی است. قبرس از جمله اهداف نقشهٔ هفت ساله است. برای اطلاعات بیشتر با لجنهٔ مهاجرت بین‌المللی بشرح زیر تماس بگیرید.

International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center Wilmette, Illinois 60091 Phone: (312) 869-9039

خطاب به جوانان بهائی

(TO BAHA’I YOUTH)

الا ای جوانان پاک بهائی الا ای گهرهای عمر طلائی

شما ئید نواختران فروزان سردگر کنید از فلک دلربائی

رسانید این مژده بیکانگان را که شد نوبت الفت و آشنائی

دهید این بشارت بشر را که آمد گه وصل و طی شد زمان جدائی

مگر اهل امریک و افریق فرقی کند با اروپائی و آسیائی

زیک نوع چینی وهندی و رومی زیک اصل مصری و اسپانیائی

بشوئید این رنگها را که انسان ز رنگ دورنگی بیابد رهائی

شه ما کند فتح اقلیم دلها به‌نزم بدین فتح و کشورکشائی

نه دارد جدالی نه ساز و قتالی نه حرب زمینی نه جنگ هوائی

بگسترده خوانیک هرمستمندی خود از بینوائی ببا بدر شائی

بجز درگه غصّ ممتاز ابهی مجور درگهی از پی جبهه‌سائی

بود تا که تکبیر حق بر زبانها زبانها بود تا بمدحت‌سرائی

غلامان ربّانی او را شناخته جوانان روحانی او را فدائی

سید غلامرضا روحانی

میدان خدمت

FIELD OF SERVICE

نیاز به مهاجرت داخلی در مناطق سرخ‌پوستان در ایالت مونتانا. لجنۀ ناحیه‌ای در ایالت مونتانا نیاز مبرم به احبایی است که در نواحی مختلف مراکز سرخ‌پوستان مستقر شوند. یارانی که علاقه‌مندند اطلاعات بیشتر را با منشی این لجنه بشرح زیر تماس بگیرند.

Topaz Dozen Sozeman, MT 59715

شهرهای مختلف ایالت کنتاکی از جمله شهرهای دانشگاهی نیاز به مهاجر برای تقویت جوامع امری آنجا دارد. برای اطلاعات بیشتر با آدرس زیر تماس بگیرید.

William Wiley Kentucky DTC Frankfort, KY 40601 Phone: (505) 875-5962

در شهر فلورنس Florence در ایالت کارولینای جنوبی احتیاج به مبلغین سیّار است تا هدف یک‌هزار نفر مؤمنین ثابت‌قدم را که تا رضوان آتیه قرار است محقّق شود تقویت نمایند. داشتن اتوموبیل و لوازم خواب کمک مؤثری است. برای اطلاعات در مورد جزئیات کار به جناب دکتر راسخ و خانم تلفن کنید. ۸۱۲ – ۶۶۷ (۸۰۳) میباشد و به "نهضت طبرسی" بپیوندید.

ناحیه‌ای در حومه شهر هوستون، تگزاس بنام Northeast Harris County احتیاج به مهاجرینی دارد که با وجود هفت نفر بهائی موفّق به تشکیل محفل روحانی محلی گردند. از حیث مدرسه و وسائل تربیتی بسیار معروف است و حتی پرزیدنت ریگن از آن تقدیر بعمل آورده‌اند. تا شهر هوستون نیم ساعت با ماشین فاصله دارد. لطفاً با آدرس زیر برای اطلاعات بیشتر تماس بگیرید.

Joe and Robin Cain Kingwood, Texas 77339 Phone: (713) 359-2826

در شهر بریج‌واتر Bridgewater در ایالت ماساچوست یک خانوادۀ بهائی نیاز مبرم به احبایی جهت نگاهداری اطفالشان بین ده ساله و پنج ماهه میباشند. این خانم یا خانواده زندگی خواهند نمود و حقوقی دریافت خواهند داشت. شهر بریج‌واتر دارای گروه بهائی است و هنوز موفّق به تشکیل محفل روحانی نشده است. دانستن مقداری زبان انگلیسی بی فایده نیست امّا چنانچه از احبّای پناهنده ایرانی باشند مرجّح خواهند بود. برای اطلاعات بیشتر شخصاً با ایشان تماس بگیرید.

Mr. and Mrs. Mehrabi Bridgewater, MA 02324 Phone: (617) 697-6293 Home (617) 745-3200, Ext. 269 Mike Mehrabi

در شهر دانشگاهی الیزابت‌تاون Elizabethtown در ناحیهٔ شرقی ایالت پنسیلوانیا نیاز به احبای ایرانی دارند که مایل باشند در این شهر اقامت گزینند و با حضور خویش و همکاری با یاران آمریکا بشی تقویت محفل روحانی آن شهر موفّق شوند. لطفاً با خانم فرنیس مرمن منشی محفل آن شهر تماس بگیرید:

Frances Merryman P. O. Box 30 Elizabethtown, PA 17022 Phone: (717) 367-1387 (Night) (717) 534-8836 (Day)

برای کمک به تقویت محفل روحانی جزیره ننتوکت Nantucket در ایالت ماساچوست با خانم هال تماس بگیرید.

Ms. Ann Hall Nantucket, MA 02554 Phone: (617) 228-2904

ده سال قبل

ده سال قبل در این ماه ایادی فقید امرالله دکتر رحمت‌الله مهاجر اعلی‌الله مقامه در سیزده شهر در یازده ایالت از ایالات جنوبی قدم گذاردند و طرح تبلیغ دسته‌جمعی را ریخته و تأکید در تبلیغ تمامی افراد خانواده‌ها، تأسیس کلاسهای درس اخلاق برای اطفال، و ملاقاتهای هفتگی از احبای تازه تسجیل را بنمودند. [Page 20]

طرح تبلیغ چینی‌ها

ثابتان و راسخان مهد امر آن دل‌سپرده‌گان را که در این دیار خادم آستانند تحیات ابدع امنع بی‌پایان شایان

اللّهابهی ای یاران:

در این دم که پیاپی شلّاق ستم بر پیکر داغدار عالم وارد و ناله‌ی فرزندان آدم در اندوه و غم و حزن و الَم بی انجام گرفتار، ندای خوشنوا و ملای پر غوغای منادی صلح اعظم و ناجی کل امم،‌ بهاء‌الله الاَفخم‌الاکرم دمیدم در نفوذ و جریان و منعکس در سراسر پهنه‌ی کهکشان و شادی‌بخش اهل این جهان. ملی روح پاک آن سرور افلاک تابناک و تار عالم خاک را عنبرین تابناک فرماید و جبین مبین اهل زمین را عاقبت پرتو نور علیین بخشد، علی‌الخصوص حال که مردم چین که بی تمکینند بسیار مستعد تعالیم دلنشین آن داور نازنین گشته‌اند. وقت آن گشته که شرق دور را پرنور نمود و جنبان مهجور را پر شور و نور و عاشق و شیدای حضرت بهاء‌الله نمود تا آنکه این آئین آسمانی فی‌الحقیقه جهانی گردد و نام مبارکش شهره آفاق شود و مقام والایش در نظر اهل عالم براعظم گردد. به فرموده حضرت ولی عزیز امر مولایمان:

«... مملکت چینیان را که فی‌الحقیقه دارای عالمی و تمدنی مخصوص است و از حیث عده نفوس ربع مسکون عالم است و از جهت ثروت داخله و قوای مکنونه مادّیه و ادبیه و روحانیّه تفوق بر هر مملکتی از ممالک دارد، ‎هیجه قطب حسینه هجده قطب حسّیه‎ بر قوای را بیدار نمایند و به اهتزاز آرید و در ظلّ کلمة‌اللّه درآورده با ممالک سائره عالم محشور و مألوف سازید و وحدت حقیقی نوع بشر را بقوةّ حضرت بهاء‌الله ثابت ‎نماییند نمایند‎ و تأسیس کنید...»

در این بیان جهان‌سوز آیه که اثبات وحدت حقیقی نوع بشر بقوة حضرت بهاء‌الله منوط و مشروط به بیدار نمودن مردم چینی‌نژاد است و البته این بیان حضرت شوقی عزیزمان همیشه حقّ بوده ولی وسائل و اسباب به حکمت بالغه الهیه بناگاه فراهم گشته چنانکه معهد اعلی در پیام چهارم فوریه ۱۹۸۵ خطاب به بسیاری از محافل ملّی چنین اظهار فرموده‌اند که: «بیت‌العدل اعظم در یک چنین زمانی در تاریخ امر تبلیغ چینیان را در هر کجای عالم که ساکن باشند امری بسیار ضروری و مهم می‌شمارد...» ترجمه غیررسمی

این است که تازه منتخب لجنه‌ی ملی تبلیغ چینیان در آمریکا بر آن دید که با احبای ایران که مقیم این سامانند این موضوع را در میان بگذارد، چه که ایرانیان چون فرهنگیان هماهنگ چینیان است و در صفا و گرمی و محبت‌خانواده و میهمان‌نوازی شهرة جهانند می‌توانند در تبلیغ محصلان و یا ‎دانمشندان دانشمندان‎ چینی که از خانواده و عزیزانشان مدت یک تا چند سالی دور و در این مملکت اغلب احساس غربت دارند نقش حسّاسی داشته باشند حتی با بی زبانی.

بدین دلیل این لجنه از خانواده‌ها و افرادی که مایل و مشتاق به پذیرائی این اشخاص که نخبه کشورشان هستند می‌باشند دعوت می‌نماید که با این لجنه تماس گیرند تا جزئیات چگونگی این خدمت شایسته با توجه به وضعیت بخصوص هر فرد با ایشان در میان گذاشته شود.

اتّسِع‌مع‌مَن‌ناجاه — با دعاهای صمیمیانه فرزام کمال آبادی از طرف لجنه‌ی ملی تبلیغ چینی امریکا

National Teaching Committee Bahá’í National Center Wilmette, Illinois 60091

انتشارات جدید

(NEW PUBLICATIONS)

مؤسسه‌ی ملی مطبوعات امری امریکا به تهیه کتابی بنام: Peace: More than an End to War "صلح چیزی بیش از ترک جنگ" پرداخته که در اوائل آوریل آماده انتشار خواهد شد. این کتاب که کاملترین مجموعه‌ای از آثار بهائی است که در خصوص صلح تاکنون تهیه شده مطالب مندرجه در بیانیه‌ی صلح بیت‌العدل اعظم را بیشتر تشریح و توضیح می‌نماید. کتابی است که برای تقدیم به غیربهائیان و کتابخانه‌ها و بنمایش گذاشتن در کنفرانسهای عمومی مناسب می‌باشد.

آثار امری بفارسی — مؤسسه‌ی مطبوعات امری اخیرا با لجنه‌ی ملی امور احبای ایرانی/امریکائی مشورت نموده و بتدبیر راههائی برای شناساندن آثار امری بفارسی به احبای ایرانی خصوصاً آنان که ضمن چند سال اخیر به امریکا آمده‌اند پرداخته‌اند. نکات اساسی در این مذاکرات این بود که احبای تازه واردی که همه چیز خود را از دست داده‌اند اگر واقف باین باشند که در امریکا نقشی در توسعه جریان قوّه قدسیه الهیه دارند، آنوقت می‌توانند بتدریج خویشتن را در جریان حیات و خدمت بهائی قرار دهند.

از این رو بعضی آثار که علی‌الخصوص در مورد سرنوشت احبای آمریکا بعنوان رهبر روحانی عالم بحث می‌نماید اخیراً بچاپ رسیده که از آن جمله "فرامین تبلیغی حضرت عبدالبهاء" و "ظهور عدل الهی" است.

مؤسسه مطبوعاتی جورج راندل در انگلستان اخیرا دو کتاب چاپ نموده بشرح زیر: "لئو تولستوی و دیانت بهائی"، "Leo Tolstoy and the Bahá’í Faith" و "محک خلوص" "The Touchstone of Sincerity" که این کتاب اخیر بصورت داستانی در خصوص زحمات و رنج‌های یکفرد بهائی در زمان حال در ایران می‌باشد.

تذکره شعرای بهائی Anthology of Persian Bahá’í Poets Outside of Iran اخیراً خادم عزیز امراللّه جناب اسکندر رفیعی مصمم به تهیه تذکره شعرای بهائی فارسی‌زبان خارج از مهد امراللّه شده‌اند. یاران الهی که اطلاعی از شعرای بهائی دارند یا آنانکه در شعرگوئی قدمی فرا نهاده‌اند میتوانند با ایشان بآدرس زیر تماس بگیرند.

Mr. E. Rafii P. O. Box 305 Sunnymead, CA 92388

کلاس جناب دکتر ریاضی قدیمی

(TOUHEED PERSIAN SESSION)

مدرسه بهائی لوهلن با همکاری جناب دکتر ریاضی قدیمی یک دوره‌ی فشرده تحصیلی امری بفارسی از ۲۷ جولای تا اول آگوست امسال تشکیل خواهد شد. هر روز شامل پنج کلاس بوده و هر غروب برنامه شعر فارسی و موسیقی اجرا خواهد شد.

مبلغ نامنویسی شامل غذا و اطاق ۱۱۲ دلار است. این اطاقها ۳ و ۴ تخته هستند. برای اطاق دو نفره ۲۵ دلار برای هر نفر اضافه میگردد. ده درصد تخفیف برای خانواده‌های ۴ نفره و بیشتر منظور خواهد گردید. اطلاعات بیشتر در شماره آتیه درج خواهد شد.

منتخب اخبار

(NEWS BRIEFS)

تشکیل انجمن حقوق‌دانان بهائی در نتیجه کنفرانسی که در دهم الی دوازدهم ژانویه در مدرسه بهائی لوهلن در خصوص موضوع "بهاییان و رشته حقوق" با حضور تعدادی وکلای بهائی از جمله دو نفر از اعضاء محفل روحانی ملی بهائیان امریکا قاضی جیمز و فانی دوروتی نلسون تشکیل شد، این جمع موفق به تشکیل انجمن حقوق‌دانان بهائی شده اعضاء هیئت عامله‌اش را انتخاب نمود. خانم دوروتی نلسون اشاره نمودند که این واقعه‌ای تاریخی بود. از جمله خدماتی که این انجمن در آتیه میتواند به جامعه بهائی ارائه دهد گذشته از کمک در مسائل مربوط به ارث و املاک، و حضور در کنفرانس‌های بین‌المللی بنمایندگی از جامعه بهائی، کمک به تأسیس تشکیلاتی بین‌المللی چون محکمه‌ کبری خواهد بود که حضرت ولی‌امرالله آنرا از جمله اسباب تأسیس صلح اکبر قلمداد فرموده‌اند. در تاریخ ۱۶ ژانویه بیت‌العدل اعظم پیامی باین مضمون به لجنه ملی تبلیغ مخابره فرمودند.

"‎ارک‌توشهای از کوششهای‎ وکلای بهائی که با برخورداری از حمایت محفل ملی قصد ازدیاد خدمت خویش را بامر جمال قدم دارند و از مقدمات تشکیل "انجمن حقوق‌دانان بهائی" بسیار خوشوقتیم. به شرکت کنندگان کنفرانس اخیر اطمینان دهید که بآستان جمال قدم دعا مینمائیم که تاییدات ‎لا ریبته‌اش لا ریب فیه‌اش‎ را شامل حال آنان فرماید" ترجمه

محفل روحانی تولدو (Toledo) اوهایو که بیانیه‌ی صلح بیت‌العدل اعظم را تقدیم سناتور ایالت اوهایو، مارسی کپتور (Marcy Kaptur) نموده بودند اخیراً نامه‌ای از ایشان دریافت داشتند که در ضمن آن چنین گفته‌اند: "مطمئن باشید که این بیانیه‌ی شما را با خود به واشینگتن خواهم برد و در ضمن ماههای آتیه که من و همقطارانم موضوع صلح جهانی را بحث و بررسی خواهیم نمود باین بیانیه مراجعه خواهم نمود."

کنفرانسی به احیای جوانان در ریچموند، ویرجینیا در روزهای ۴، ۵ و ۶ آوریل تشکیل خواهد شد. ثبت‌نام، محل خواب و غذا جمعاً ۴۹ دلار. ثبت‌نام پس از نوروز ۵۲ دلار خواهد بود. برای اطلاعات بیشتر با جناب سهیل دادرسان بشرح زیر تماس بگیرید:

Sohail Dadressan Baltimore, MD 21239 Phone: (301) 339-7218

محفل روحانی شهر هریس‌برگ در ایالت پنسیلوانیا اخیراً خدمات متعدّد و در سطح عمومی موفق شده است. از جمله آنکه تشکیل سیزدهمین کنفرانس سالانه "نوروز" موفق شده‌اند که هر سال در محل کالج Elizabethtown برگزار می‌شود موضوع اصلی کنفرانس امسال "ظهور صلح جهانی" میباشد. ناطقین شامل عضو هیئت مشاوره‌ قاره‌ای رابرت هریس Robert Harris و عضویت معاونت ایادی امرالله جاوید بخت‌خانم خادم و جناب Peter Oldziey از مساعدین میباشد.

از جمله موفق به ایجاد الفت بین احبای پناهنده از کامبوج شده‌اند.

از جمله موفق به تشکیل جلسه تبلیغی مرکزی شده‌اند که از تمام بیوت‌تبلیغ اطراف مبتدیان در آن شرکت میکنند. کنفرانس اخیرشان در خصوص "حصول صلح جهانی ورای وحدت ملی" بوده است. [Page 21]

در اهمیت نوروز

SIGNIFICANCE OF NAW-RUZ

از لوح مبارک حضرت عبدالبهاء مندرج در کتاب مکاتیب جلد سوم صفحه ۵۳۶: «هذا يوم قد جعله الله عيدا لكم يا من آمنوا بالواحد الفرد القديم» «هذا يوم بارک فيه من مبارك من قبل من في ملكوت البيان...» «الذى جعله الله لهذا الاسم الاعظم...»

خاطر یاران الهی را مستحضر میدارد که در آمریکا طبق راهنمائی های حضرت ولی امرالله و تائید بیت العدل اعظم الهی روز اول نوروز همان ۲۱ مارچ است صرف نظر از روز و ساعت تحویل سال.

نقشه شش ساله

رضوان ۱۹۸۶ تا رضوان ۱۹۹۲ SIX YEAR PLAN

نقشه شش ساله آتیه که مرحله ای دیگر در تنفیذ متن فرامین تبلیغی حضرت مولی الوری باحبای آمریکا است، مقدر است که جامعه اعظم را که حال از مرحله مجهولیت خارج گشته و آماده ورود به عهد چهارم عصر تکوین دور بها میباشد تحرکی بدیع بخشد و بنیه جسمانی و روحانی جامعه امر را بچنان مرحله ای برساند که مقارن صدمین سال یاد بود صعود مالک امم به ممالک اخرى "المقامات التى ما وقعت عليها عيون اهل الأسماء" این جامعه جدید التأسی آماده مقابله با حملات و هجماتی گردد که لابدّاً در اثر توسعه چشمگیر نظام امرالله متوجهش خواهد گشت.

از اکنون که بیش از چند هفته به ختام نقشه هفت ساله باقی نمانده تا سال ۱۹۹۲ که جشن اعظم تأسیس میثاق منیع مولی العالمین را در مدینه میثاق برقرار خواهیم ساخت مقدرات امر الهی مستقیماً بدست یاران و انجمن ها و مؤسسات وفادار سپرده شده. بدین معنی که جزئیات طرحهای نقشه شش ساله این بار بدست کفایت محافل مقدسه ملیه و امناء منتخب جامعه پیروان دین الله سپرده شده که این خود دلیلی و علامتی دیگر از رشد و ترقی جامعه اعظم است. کوششها در این ده ساله پس از صعود شارع اعظم این آخرین فرصتی است که در ضمن آن یاران الهی میبایست در جهه وفا و ایمان خویش را فرداً و جمعاً بآستان الهی ابراز نمایند و بچنان فتوحاتی در سبیل اشاعه و تحقق و تمکن اصول و تعالیم امر الهی نائل گردند که لایق عنایات لا ریبۀ الهی شوند. کوشا این دوره بهترین فرصت است که مصداق این بیان محکم جمال قدم را که در ام الکتاب نازل گشته ظاهر سازیم بقوله المنير: "لو يجد أحد حلاوة البيان الذى ظهر من فم مشية الرحمن لينفق ما عنده و ليكونن خزان الارض كلها ليثبت امر من امراء امره المنشرة فى افق العناية و الألطاف"

در این چند ساله اخیر یاران ایران بار دیگر ثابت نمودند که حلاوت بیان حضرت محبوب را تا چه حد چشیده اند. یاران الهی که از ایران در اثر نوسانات تاریخی و تقدیرات الهی بآمریکا روی آورده اند گرچه از حیث ظاهری از آن بستان امر الهی در مهد امرالله جدا می بینند ولی از حیث روحانی رسالتشان با آنان مشترک بوده است و در این مائده آسمانی را بمردم محیط جدیدشان بچشانند. با یاران آمریک متفقاً باحیاى نفوس مشغول گردند و تحقق وحدت اصلیه را در جامعه امری و محلی خویش ظاهر ساخته باعتما د و امیدواری و تشویق اهل شهر خویش گردند و بچنین مغناطیسی آنان را به کشتی الهی دعوت کنند و در حصن منیع امرش ملجا و مأوی دهند.

می بایست آنچه از تجارب بهائی تاکنون آموخته ایم استفاده کنیم و در این جهاد روحانی با هر کسی که برای امر الهی قیام می نماید متحد شده بنقویت شرایطی بپردازیم که ضامن ازدیاد بنیه امرالله در طی سالهای آینده گردند.

یاران ایرانی چه در ایران و چه در خارج ایران بمصداق بیان حضرت مسیح که "شما نمک جهانید

اگر نمک فاسد شود جهان با چه چیز نمکین گردد؟" دارای این استعداد هستند که مایه قوت قلب و اطمینان سایر مؤمنین یا مرجمال قدم شده آنان را در این نهضت روحانی چراغی فرا راه باشند.

از اهم مکاتبات مورخ ۲ ژانویه ۱۹۸۶ بیت العدل اعظم که متن کامل آن در شماره ماه فوریه ۱۹۸۶ چاپ شده میتوان به موارد زیر اشاره نمود:

• رشد طبیعی هیکل امرالله که از علائم آن پیشرفتهای اخیر جامعه جهانی است در اهداف اصلیه نقشه شش ساله منعکس است.
• بعضی از این اهداف کلی که از جانب بیت العدل اعظم اعلام خواهد شد عبارتند از: (۱) بسط منابع فردی و مالی امرالله، (۲) توسعه مقام و موقعیت امرالله در عالم، (۳) ازدیاد تولید و انتشار و استفاده از آثار امری در سطح جهانی، (۴) ارائه نمونه حیات بهائی بنحوی بارزتر و وسیعتر که خود مستلزم توجه مخصوص به تربیت روحانی اطفال و جوانان، تقویت حیات خانواده بهائی، و توجه به مشارکت عمومی افراد احیاء در فعالیت های جامعه وغنی ساختن حیات فردی است، (۵) تسریع بیشتر جریان رشدو جامعۀ محلی و ملی و ایجاد اتحاد عمیق بین ارکان دوگانه نظام اداری امرالله، (۶) ازدیاد تشریک مساعی با جامعه های جهانی در رفع نیازهای دنیای خارج، و (۷) تعقیب برنامه های توسعه اقتصادی و اجتماعی در جوامع ملی قوی تر.
• اهداف و طرحهای مربوط به هر یک از جوامع ملیه توسط محفل روحانی ملی آن کشور با مشورت حضرات مشاورین قاره ای طرح ریزی خواهد شد.
• این روش جدید را معهد اعلی "آغاز مرحله ای جدید در رشد و تحول نظام اداری آئین نازنین" میدانند و در دستخط مذکور میفرمایند "این هیئت هیچگونه تردیدی در شناسائی این مرحله بعنوان آغاز عهد چهارم عصر تکوین دور بها ندارد."

و چه نیتى و ارادتى اعلى از اجل اینست که توجه نموده و بغایت قدرت و اجتهاد آنچه شایان خلق است مشغول باشند نیت را در تربیت اهل عالم مصروف دارید که شاید نفاق و اختلاف از مابین امم عالم منعدم شود و کل اهل یک بساط و یک مدینت مشاهده گردند قلب را منور دارید و از غبار و نفاق و نفاق منزه و بغایت قدرت نمائید کل اهل یک مدینه و از یک کلمه نطق نمایند و با یک ملکوت حالتی کنند که بیت تمام با عموم انام معاشرت کنند "جمال مبارک"

پیام ضیافت شهر الملک

FEAST MESSAGE

ایادی عزیز امرالله جناب ویلیام سیرز در پیامی که در ضیافت شهر الملک به تمام ضیافتها ابلاغ فرمودند بار دیگر دعوت بقیام به فتح و ظفر جدیدی نمودند. با اشاره به اینکه در ماههای اخیر اهل بها در ایالات متحده به دو پیروزی عظیم نائل شدند، یعنی تأسیس رادیوی WLGI و ماه ازدیاد بیوت تبلیغ، ایشان قیام به فتح سوم را در زمینه تفضلی بیست هزار نفر از یاران و انضمام مال قدم به صندوق ملی بهائی معرفی میفرمایند.

"نه تنها صندوق بهائی مایه حیات اقدامات و تأسیسات امری است بلکه مایه حیات اهل عالم است. جمال قدم وظیفه احیاء عالم را بما سپرده اند، وظیفه ای که با قیام متحدانه یاران الهی برای تأسیس و ارتفاع امر الهی بتوسط پرداخت اعانات سخاوتمندانه و دائمی بصندوق های بهائی عملی خواهد بود... در واقع محتوای صندوقهای بهائی مستقیماً معیاری از ایمان و تعهدات ما با مر الهی باشند."

ایشان اشاره فرموده اند که بموازات موفقیتهای اخیری که نصیب یاران الهی در سبیل ترویج و انتشار تعالیم امر بدیع گشته من جمله ابلاغ بیانیۀ صلح بیت العدل اعظم به بالاترین مراجع رهبری مملکتی، بنیه مالی صندوقهای امری نیز تقویت شده پیشرفتهای آتیه را تضمین مینماید. حال با قیام به تحقق بیست هزار تفضلی و اعانه برای بیست هزار شهید امر الهی در ضمن بیست روز ایام صیام و یوم نوروز میتوانیم امیدوار باشیم که به بزرگترین پیروزی در ضمن هفته هفت ساله چنان نائل شویم که مایۀ اعجاب عالم باشی گردد.

حقوق الله

HUQUQU’LLAH

مجموعه ای از الواح و آثار مبارکه و دستخط های بیت العدل اعظم الهی راجع به حقوق الله که توسط ‎دارالآشاء دارالإنشاء‎ مرکز جهانی تهیه و بچاپ رسیده است بزودی آماده انتشار خواهد شد.

یاران عزیز مقیم آمریکا میتوانند با تماس مستقیم با هر یک از امناء حقوق الله نسخه هائی از این مجموعه را دریافت دارند.

ضمناً یادآور میشود کماکان پرداختی های حقوق الله به هیئت امناء حقوق الله و بنام Huqúqu’lláh Trust فرستاده شود.

Dr. Elsie Austin P. O. Box 927 Silver Spring, MD 20910	Dr. Daryush Haghighi Rocky River, OH 44116
Dr. Amin Banani Santa Monica, CA 90402

"نوروز امروز است و فی الحقیقه عصر ایام است بلکه بصر عالم بآن روشن، عالم زمان بساعتی از ساعاتش معادله ننماید، این یوم غیر ایام است و این امر غیر امور، یوم یوم الله است و امر امر او طوبی از برای نفسی که از عالم گذشت و بمشرق وحی الهی پیوست" "جمال مبارک" [Page 22]

Bolivia, Perú review socio-economic gains

UNITED NATIONS

During a briefing session held January 10 at the Bahá’í International Community’s Office of Public Information, Elloy Anello, president of Nur University, Santa Cruz, Bolivia, and Tom Lysaght, director of social and economic development projects for Radio Bahá’í in Puno, Peru, presented encouraging reports about Bahá’í development projects in Bolivia and Peru.

In both countries, Bahá’í radio stations have been instrumental in promoting literacy, health care, and native culture.

Peru

Radio Bahá’í began its initial transmission on July 9, 1981, in Chucuito, which is about 10 miles from Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca, legendary birthplace of the Inca people.

In the area there are about four million Aymaras, distinguishable from other Indian groups by their language and deeply rooted customs.

Consequently, all programs are broadcast in Aymara, Quechua and Spanish. At the present time Radio Bahá’í is the only culturally-oriented radio station in the area.

Radio Bahá’í broadcasts a literacy program under an agreement with the Ministry of Education, while announcements have been prepared to support vaccination programs, and a cooperative relationship has been established with the Forestry Centre of the Ministry of Agriculture.

According to the Ministry of Education’s evaluation of mass media in Puno, Radio Bahá’í is the most popular station in the area.

In Peru, where one in four births results in death from dehydration, the Bahá’ís are engaged in innovative techniques to teach UNICEF’s oral rehydration method.

Their three-stage program is being implemented in the rural areas of Perú among the indigenous population. First, a rural village theatre troupe performs a play that dramatizes for the villagers and youth the main points of UNICEF’s oral rehydration program.

The performers are 15-year-old youth who depict the following major strategies: (1) the importance of breast feeding to nourish and protect the infant from infection; (2) oral rehydration therapy consisting of a simple treatment with salts and glucose in clean water for a child suffering from diarrheal dehydration, the number one killer; (3) immunization against tetanus, measles, polio, whooping cough, diphtheria and tuberculosis, which cripple and kill millions of children every year; and (4) growth monitoring to detect early signs of malnutrition and deal with it.

Second, Radio Bahá’í broadcasts well-prepared programs that reinforce the message of the play and encourage local community participation in and support of the oral rehydration program.

Third, additional reinforcement and support is provided through the training of selected villagers from the surrounding region in the use of specially prepared audio tapes to lead the local villagers in discussions of oral rehydration.

After the training, each villager returns to his or her community with copies of the audio tapes and serves as a discussion leader for the village.

The use of audio tapes, which have been produced by the Bahá’ís, appears to overcome some of the problems caused by illiteracy, which often prevents the success of the oral rehydration program.

Bolivia

After initiating a tri-lingual broadcast on March 31, 1984, Radio Bahá’í in Caracollo started broadcasting for eight hours each day.

Although most of the programming has been music, especially native Indian folk music, other programs include community service, local sports and news, and family education and agriculture.

The station has also produced a community newspaper and is collaborating with UNICEF in the design and production of radio programs focusing on oral rehydration. It has prepared a cassette tape on UNICEF’s interventions and distributed it to 15 rural radio stations throughout the region where UNICEF has its program in operation.

Radio Bahá’í has also pioneered an experimental exercise in structured listening groups by involving 50 Mothers’ Clubs through the use of prepared tapes that are designed to stimulate a dialogue and discussion of the UNICEF program.

On November 2, the five-member Bahá’í Group of East Windsor, New Jersey, marked the 40th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations with a public meeting whose speaker was Richard Falk (fourth from left), Albert G. Milbank Professor of International Law and Practice at Princeton University. In his talk, entitled ‘Can the UN Bring About World Peace,’ Prof. Falk, who is not a Bahá’í, spoke highly of the Universal House of Justice’s peace statement, calling it ‘a very eloquent, important document that should be studied as a foundation for trying to think about how to promote peace in the world.’ The local newspaper carried an article covering Prof. Falk’s address and listing many of the principles of the Faith. Shown with Prof. Falk are East Windsor Bahá’ís (left to right) Richard Chapas, Jenina Lepard, Brian Lepard, Mohammad Roayaie and Mehri Roayaie.

Peace conference in Woodland draws mayor, 100 others

Nearly 100 people attended a peace conference January 11 sponsored by the Bahá’ís of Woodland, California.

The conference was opened by Dr. Harry Walker, the mayor of Woodland. Richard Rodda, the president of the UN office in Sacramento, spoke on the role of the United Nations in establishing peace.

Topics addressed by the Bahá’í speakers were “The Promise of World Peace,” “The Socio-Economic Aspect of Peace,” “The Spiritual Aspect of Peace,” and “The Role of Women in World Peace.”

The conference was used as a means of presenting the Universal House of Justice’s peace statement to the residents of Woodland. City and county officials, humanitarian organizations and churches were invited.

UN publishes two exciting new books especially for children

UNITED NATIONS

Two new United Nations books for children are now available:

The United Nations From A to Z by Nancy Winslow Parker is published by Dodd, Mead & Co., 79 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10016. The price is $12.95 (hardcover), $5.95 (softcover).

On the inside cover, the book is described as follows:

“What is the United Nations? What does it do? Who belongs to it? After World War II, the leading nations of the world wanted to work together to prevent wars from ever happening again. They formed the United Nations.

“On June 26, 1945, the UN Charter was signed in San Francisco. Today there are 159 member nations.

“Here, in a handy alphabetical guide, with a concise text and clever illustrations, you can find out about the General Assembly, the Security Council, the peacekeeping forces, and all the other organs and agencies that make up the United Nations.

“In this 40th anniversary of the United Nations, discover what this international organization for peace and human rights is all about.”

Papito’s Speech by Margaret and John Travers Moore, published by the UN Department of Public Information (DPI No. 800), is $3.95 (softcover).

Papito’s Speech is the UN’s first attempt at publishing a children’s book, rights to which were purchased from the authors, among America’s leading poets.

From the description on the cover:

“A dream of peace—There is nothing wrong with dreaming. For more than 40 years a dream has become more and more real at the United Nations. And in his visit to the UN in New York, Papito makes a speech at the General Assembly that touches the dreams of all the world.”

To order either of these books, write to the UN Bookstore, General Assembly Building, Room GA-32B, New York, NY 10017. Make checks payable to UN Bookstore.

Three Bahá’í Holy Days listed on NCCJ 1986 ‘Calendar of Religious Holidays’

Three Bahá’í Holy Days (Ridván, Naw-Rúz, and the anniversary of the Birth of Bahá’u’lláh) are listed with brief explanations by the National Council of Christians and Jews on “A Calendar of Religious Holidays and Ethnic Festivals.”

The calendar is an attractive and informative four-page brochure that bears the symbols of the Bahá’í, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Islamic, Jewish and Sikh faiths and covers two academic years of broadly selected holidays and festivals to include both large and small religious and/or ethnic communities.

“The calendar,” it says, “is designed to encourage Americans to be aware of and to learn about the great mixture of religious and ethnic groups that are in the United States. It is a tool for civic, corporate, religious and educational organizations.

“Teachers may find the ‎calender calendar‎ particularly helpful because it contains festivals that can be occasions for objective, non-credal instruction on particular cultures and because it will alert them to religious observances which may result in student absences.”

According to Celia Lewis, the calendar editor who made the initial contact with the U.S./UN Bahá’í Office in July 1984, the calendar is distributed by the 75 regional offices of the National Council of Christians and Jews and is used largely in school programs as well as in conjunction with programs sponsored by the NCCJ.

If you would like a copy (25 cents each) or a quantity (bulk rates available), you may write to NCCJ Inc., 71 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10003, Attention: Celia Lewis.

When Ms. Lewis was thanked for including Bahá’í Holy Days in the ‎calender calendar‎, her response was, “How could we not?”

from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust

New Edition

O God, Guide Me! Prayers to bind the hearts of children to Bahá’u’lláh

• excellent for family devotions and fostering a sense of Bahá’í identity
• makes a special gift from parents and Spiritual Assemblies to children and libraries
• contains one NEW prayer and updated translations
• includes prayers for guidance, spiritual education, protection, spiritual happiness, dawn, obedience to God, healing, light of God, assistance from God

New design; durable cover 48 pages 22 illustrations $3.75*

*Price valid only in the United States.

Order through your local librarian, or send check or money order (including 10% for postage and handling, minimum $1.50) to:

Bahá’í Distribution Service 415 LINDEN AVENUE, WILMETTE, IL 60091 TEL. 1-800-323-1880 [Page 23]

INTERMEDIA

News from the Office of Public Affairs

SIGNIFICANT MENTIONS The Associated Press wire service release about President Reagan’s human rights proclamation was picked up by newspapers all over the country. Of the clippings that have come pouring in so far, more than 34 towns have printed the story quoting both the President and Judge James F. Nelson, chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly.

Austin magazine in Austin, Texas, in an extensive article on corporate giants, featured Ginny’s Copying Service Inc., founded by a Bahá’í, Virginia Rogers. The article stated that the company “took a dramatic turn in 1977, when Rogers began implementing the teaching of the Bahá’í Faith about rewarding one’s employees.”

BUSY BAHÁ’ÍS The Bahá’ís of White Plains, New York, sent the peace statement to the editor-in-chief of the Reporter Dispatch. Result: A reporter contacted them, published a four-column-inch article that included a photograph, summarized the main points of the statement, and included the history and background of the Faith. The article, headed “Bahá’í Faith stresses peace, unity,” appeared as the lead article on the religion page.

A unified effort in Arizona resulted in an impressive full-page ad for peace ‎in in in‎ The Independent. Contact numbers were printed for the Bahá’í communities of Cottonwood, Rural Verde, Camp Verde, Jerome and Sedona. On another page the “Wage Peace” ad was published with a tear-off coupon offering a complimentary copy of the peace statement.

Bahá’ís pooled their efforts in the northeastern area of Florida to enable the media committee to place a half-page ad in the Jacksonville Times Union (circulation 400,000). The ad displayed a graphic design of a dove and said, “PEACE ... the attainable goal toward which humanity is striving ... THE BAHÁ’Í FAITH.” It listed phone numbers for two Bahá’í communities as well as a toll-free number.

The Bahá’ís of Brattleboro, Vermont, made a presentation to their local governing officials and two state senators, and a large article, headed “Bahá’ís Offer Promise of World Peace,” was printed in the Brattleboro Reformer after a local Bahá’í met with the religion editor. A week earlier, a non-Bahá’í friend had written a letter to the editor of that same paper about the persecution of the Bahá’ís in Iran.

The Bahá’ís in Howard County, Maryland, got several column inches of coverage in The Columbia Flier’s “Focus on People” section in an article headed “Bahá’ís Present Message of Peace.” The article, which mentioned the presentation of the peace statement to Howard County officials, included references to Bahá’u’lláh, listed the basic principles of the Faith, quoted frequently from the peace statement, and included comments by local Bahá’ís.

The Valley Vanguard, the student newspaper at Saginaw Valley (Michigan) State College, published a large article headed “Bahá’í and the Promise of Peace” as part of a series of articles the paper is printing about the various religions on campus. As a part of its activities, the Bahá’í Club sponsored a global holiday exhibit featuring traditional craft items and costumes associated with festivals around the world. Impressed, the Bay City Times published an article describing the exhibits and referring to the Bahá’ís as “promoters of world understanding and cultural diversity.” The event was planned in cooperation with the International Studies Committee and the Office of Sponsored Programs.

More than 50 Bahá’ís in the Greater Washington, D.C., area volunteered to answer phones during WETA-TV’s recent fund-raising campaign. Not only did the station frequently mention the Bahá’ís, but the racial diversity of the community was visible to the station’s many viewers when the cameras focused on the volunteers as they manned the telephones.

Bahá’ís in Derry, New Hampshire, were recently featured in two significant articles in The Derry News. One, about the United Nations presentation, was headed “Bahá’ís Release Peace Statement,” and the other, about the Human Rights Day ceremony at the White House, was headed “Reagan Condemns Iran’s Persecution of Bahá’ís.”

The Bahá’ís of Cary, North Carolina, busy spreading the message of “The Promise of Peace,” sent a two-page summary of the statement with a cover letter to more than 500 businesses, professionals, school principals and individuals in Cary. The recipients were asked to consider the message and to contact Bahá’ís if they wished more information. The positive response included an article in The Cary News which covered the content of the peace statement and explored the history of the Faith as well. A local contact number for the Bahá’í community was included.

The Bahá’í College Club at the University of New Hampshire remembered to include publicity as an important part of every proclamation activity. Throughout the year they have published a list of their activities in the “Notices” section of their school paper, The New Hampshire. Display ads and photos have added up to impressive P.R. There’s no question their campus community knows about the Bahá’ís.

We are delighted to see that “Bahá’í” and “Peace” are so prominently linked in today’s headlines.

Xenia, Ohio, Bahá’ís show teaching can lead to splendid media coverage with well-planned local campaign

Teaching projects provide excellent opportunities for media coverage!

In preparation for a direct teaching weekend, the District Teaching Committee of Southern Ohio sought permission from the Xenia village council to hand out invitations to a public discussion about peace.

During the meeting, the ‎Bahá’í’s Bahá’ís‎ presented the council with the peace statement. Later, 100 invitations to the peace discussion were distributed to the public.

As sometimes happens, only a group of enthusiastic Bahá’ís showed up. Not disheartened, they used the opportunity to consult about peace-related activities. The result was a decision to hold a week-long prayer vigil at the Xenia Bahá’í Center.

It was an interfaith event to which all the residents of Xenia were invited to offer prayers around the clock for the establishment of world peace. Candles were lit in the window of the Bahá’í Center to remind people of the vigil.

The outcome was gratifying. The mayors of Yellow Springs and Xenia and the Greene County Commission proclaimed it “World Peace Week.”

On New Year’s eve, a candlelight service was held. Representatives from various religions and nationalities offered prayers for world peace at the Greene County Court House.

Extensive media coverage followed.

Proclamation

WHEREAS, the United Nations has declared the period from October 24, 1985, to October 24, 1986, as International Year of Peace; and

WHEREAS, world peace is the goal of a harassed humanity; and

WHEREAS, we live in a world of nations whose interdependence makes universal peace a first priority for the survival and advancement of civilization; and

WHEREAS, major obstacles to the attainment of world peace are the prejudices that separate men and cause disunity, and we must work to eliminate these barriers; and

WHEREAS, we in America have been given great spiritual capacities and blessings, and we must take the leadership in the quest for an attainment of World Peace.

NOW THEREFORE, I, Walter L. Marshall, as Mayor of the City of Xenia, Ohio, hereby proclaim the week of December 25 through December 31, 1985, as WORLD PEACE WEEK in Xenia in the prayerful hope that Americans everywhere will take this time to rededicate themselves to work at all times to eliminate these barriers to world peace, particularly all forms of prejudice toward people of different races, nationalities or creeds, and to foster a high standard of justice for all.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office as Mayor of the City of Xenia, Ohio, this 12th day of December, 1985.

Walter L. Marshall Mayor of the City of Xenia, Ohio

Pictured is a copy of the proclamation signed by the mayor of Xenia, Ohio, for ‘World Peace Week’ in that city. The proclamation can be used as a sample and adapted for other communities and other peace-related events.

Print media

Prior to the vigil, a photo of the Bahá’í delegation presenting the peace statement to Congressman Mike DeWine appeared in the Beavercreek News with the bold heading, “Bahá’ís Present Peace Statement.”

Other peace-related activities were covered as follows:

• The Yellow Springs News printed a photo of members of the Bahá’í community taken during the candlelight prayer service, a letter to the editor from a Bahá’í expressing gratitude to the village council, newspaper and radio station WYSO for supporting the peace activities, a photo of ‎Bahá’í’s Bahá’ís‎ presenting a copy of “The Promise of World Peace” to the village library, and an announcement headed “Bahá’í Fireside” that included a number to call for more information.
• The Xenia Daily Gazette printed a front-page article headed “Xenia Bahá’í Group Urging World Peace.”
• The Dayton Daily News featured an article headed “Xenia Bahá’ís Hold Week-Long Prayer Vigil for Peace.”
• The Journal-Herald, published in Dayton, printed an article and photo of one of the Bahá’ís reading a prayer at the vigil. The article was headed “Religious Group Holds Prayer Vigil for Peace.”

Electronic media

The public radio station, WYSO, aired a 30-minute interview with the Bahá’ís. Also, WHIO-TV did a segment on its evening news about the presentation of the peace statement to a congressman.

The weather man on the six o’clock news held up a pointer with a candle on one end and announced the peace vigil and candlelight service that was to take place that evening.

Besides the articles already mentioned, the largest paper in the Dayton area sent its Greene County bureau reporter to interview the Bahá’ís at the Center. Nine articles later appeared in the morning and evening editions of the Journal Herald and Dayton Daily News.

The candlelight service drew an audience of more than 40 from the Columbus and greater Dayton areas.

These examples offer proof positive that the media is more receptive than ever to the news we have to offer. Don’t forget to include this powerful resource when planning your projects.

Mayor of Hemingway given peace statement

On January 10, the Bahá’ís of Hemingway, South Carolina, presented a copy of “The Promise of World Peace” to W.B. Harmon, the Mayor of Hemingway.

The presentation was made at the Louis G. Gregory Bahá’í Institute near Hemingway. Among those taking part were Dr. Roy Jones, administrator of the Gregory Institute, and Ernest Hilton, chairman of the District Teaching Committee.

The mayor was also given a copy of the book, The Bahá’í Faith: The Emerging Global Religion, by William Hatcher and Douglas Martin.

Bahá’ís in Dallas among sponsors of Rights Day meeting

The Bahá’ís of Dallas, Texas, were among the sponsors of a UN Human Rights Day observance held December 10 at Southern Methodist University.

Eighty people including 50 non-Bahá’ís attended the event whose theme was “Human Rights in Dallas.”

Marvin Sadovsky, chairman of the Dallas chapter of the UN Association, moderated a panel discussion whose leaders included experts on domestic violence; ethnic and racial discrimination; the plight of the homeless; restrictive business and employment practices; and criminal justice.

The Bahá’ís manned a literature table at which the new peace pamphlets and a Dallas-produced “Earth” brochure were given out.

SMU printed invitations and programs and provided the auditorium, all free of charge.

Teaching

from page 11

liness and fellowship. If ye be aware of a certain truth, if ye possess a jewel, of which others are deprived, share it with them in a language of utmost kindliness and good-will. If it be accepted, if it fulfill its purpose, your object is attained. If any one should refuse to accept it, leave him unto himself, and beseech God to guide him. Beware lest ye deal unkindly with him.” (Bahá’u’lláh, The Individual and Teaching, No. 6) [Page 24]

World Centre continues search for workers

The Bahá’í World Centre is continuing its search for qualified individuals to serve in a variety of positions in the Holy Land.

Anyone who has an interest in serving the Universal House of Justice in this rewarding and challenging way should contact Karen Crenshaw, Department of Human Resources, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312-869-9039) for an application and/or further information.

Following is a listing of immediate needs at the World Centre with a brief description of the duties encompassed in each position and the experience needed:

Administrative Assistants/Executive Secretaries: To compose and draft letters and reports, conduct research, organize and maintain files. At least five years’ experience in high-level secretarial or administrative positions, as well as in the Bahá’í Administrative Order; accurate typing and good stylistic sense in English are necessary; shorthand, knowledge of more than one language and familiarity with word processing equipment are desirable but not essential.

Cook/Kitchen Supervisor: Assumes responsibility for meal programs at the Seat of the Universal House of Justice including food preparation; supplies coffee and tea service; maintains standards of cleanliness and sees that supplies are purchased and stocked.

Electrician: Preferably licensed, familiar with electrical codes, especially European; work involves old and new construction; ability to read electrical blueprints is essential.

Iron Worker: Several years’ experience in the fabrication of wrought iron gates, fences, security grilles and doors is required. Should qualify as a welder and forge blacksmith and be able to read blueprints.

Professional Gardeners: Responsible for supervising garden work and training short-term help. Education and broad experience in either horticulture, landscaping or agriculture; knowledge of pest and general biological control is useful.

Indexer: To review a variety of documents and record selected data, using a video terminal. Work includes analysis of subjects, writing summaries and teaching work procedures. Requires good analytical and writing skills, basic typing, and knowledge of the Faith; a bachelor’s degree or adequate general education is necessary; library and/or information science degrees, library technician certificate or experience in those professions is desirable.

Together with these positions requiring immediate attention are many others for which there exists an ongoing need.

Positions that require individuals who are available for short-term service of up to one year include those for interns in the Archives Office, garden helpers, janitorial and security staff (18 months).

Other positions, which require a commitment of two and one-half years and possibly longer, include carpenter, plumber, mason/plasterer, painter, automotive mechanic, curator, bookkeeper and general office helper.

Louhelen

(from page 8)

membership committee and a committee to plan its next conference, and elected temporary officers as follows:

Ted Amsden, chairman (phone 313-468-2423, home; 313-568-6554, work); Dr. Gwen Taylor-Ghods, vice-chairman (517-351-3572, home; 517-483-1126, work); Steven Gonzales, secretary (517-351-1415, home; 517-373-3476, work); Brent Poirier, treasurer (505-522-7189, home; 505-524-8624, work).

At present, the friends can write to the Bahá’í Legal Society c/o Steven Gonzales, 1010 Michigan Avenue, East Lansing, MI 48823.

The conference was privileged to have among its participants two members of the National Spiritual Assembly, Judges James and Dorothy Nelson.

“This was an historic event,” said Dorothy Nelson. “I was impressed with the array of talent the Bahá’í community possesses, and the wonderful proposals for the progress of the Cause the friends at the conference made.

“This organization will, in the future, not only be of invaluable assistance to the Bahá’í community in such matters as estate planning and properties, and representing the Faith at various international conferences; it will also help to establish such world-wide institutions as the Supreme Tribunal, which the Guardian said would be an element in establishing the Lesser Peace.”

On January 16, the National Teaching Committee received the following telex from the Universal House of Justice:

“Impressed efforts being exerted by Bahá’ís in legal profession with encouragement your National Assembly to increase their services ‎Cause Cause of‎ Bahá’u’lláh. Pleased prospect formation Bahá’í Legal Society. Assure participants recent conference our loving prayers that Bahá’u’lláh may surround them with His abounding confirmations.”

Another conference is being planned, the particulars of which will be published in The American Bahá’í as they become available.

For now, Bahá’ís who wish to contribute to the work of the Bahá’í Legal Society may send checks payable to the Louhelen Bahá’í School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423, earmarked for the Bahá’í Legal Society.

A list of those who attended the conference, and a summary of its proceedings, can be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to Steven Gonzales at the address mentioned above.

The Bahá’í Legal Society encourages interested Bahá’ís, whether lawyers or not, to take part in its work.

Student Exchange looking for hosts

The American Intercultural Student Exchange (AISE) is seeking host families for the 1986-87 school year for 40 high school students from Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Spain, France, Italy, Brazil, Australia and Japan.

AISE is a non-profit tax-exempt educational organization dedicated to fostering international understanding.

The students, ages 15 through 18, will arrive in the U.S. in August 1986, attend the local high school, and return to their home country in late June 1987.

Host families, which are responsible for providing room, board and parental guidance, are eligible for an income tax deduction of $50 per month.

AISE is also seeking American high school students, ages 15 through 17, who would like to spend a school year in Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Germany, France, Spain, Australia or Switzerland; to take part in a five-week Host Family stay in Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Germany, France or Spain; or who would like to participate in a Host Family/Language Study program in Germany, France or Spain.

Families who are interested in this program should contact Barb Madsen, Jacksonville, IL 62650 (phone 217-245-8869), or phone (toll-free) 1-800-SIBLING.

Rights removed

The National Spiritual Assembly has removed the administrative rights of Mr. [name redacted] and Mr. [name redacted] of Saranac Lake, New York, because of their continual disobedience to Bahá’í institutions and their personal conduct which has adversely affected the image of the Faith in their community.

Unity Feast in Lincoln serves double purpose

About 40 people including 11 non-Bahá’ís attended a Unity Feast in Lincoln, Nebraska, January 19 to celebrate World Religion Day and honor the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Among those present were a Buddhist and members of several Christian denominations. All enjoyed readings from the Holy Writings, stories, and light refreshments brought by members of the Assembly.

Lakewood, Colorado, Bahá’í Youth Club gets running start with variety of projects

To provide fellowship and a Bahá’í identity for local youth and pre-youth, the Spiritual Assembly of Lakewood, Colorado, last year formed a local Youth Club.

Instrumental in its formation was 24-year-old P. Tony Duran, who not only serves as a member of the Spiritual Assembly of Lakewood but also is chairman of Regional Youth Committee No. 10.

Before the club was formed, Tony organized Lakewood adults and youth last May to plant more than 80 trees in the Wheat Ridge Green Belt.

In August, a float was planned and built and was later used in two parades in September where it was seen by about 12,000 people.

In the second parade, the Summerset Festival, the float won first place in the non-commercial division and the marshal’s trophy for the best depiction of the parade theme: Our Community.

In October, the club served dinner for Doug Cameron and his band before their concert in Denver at which Roya Mahmoudi, a Denver-area Bahá’í who portrayed Mona Mahmudnizhad in the “Mona” video, was mistress of ceremonies.

In November, traveling teacher John Khadem showed club members slides of the Amoz Gibson teaching project in South Dakota.

Future club plans include electing officers, scheduling regular meetings, building the membership, and fund-raising.

Members of the Bahá’í Youth Club of Lakewood, Colorado, with their award-winning float in last September’s Summerset Festival parade. Shown (left to right) are P. Tony Duran, Jeremy Green, Jason Haddad, Robin Campbell, Ryan Campbell and Julie Higgins. The green-and-white ‘Bahá’í Colorado’ sign is a replica of the state’s auto license plate.

from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust

Well-loved for generations.

The Divine Art of Living

(revised and expanded) returns to meet contemporary needs

• warm, reassuring, and inspirational passages from the Bahá’í writings
• guidance on prayer & meditation, health & healing, tests & difficulties, relationships, death & immortality, peace & unity
• two new chapters—one on marriage, one on the day in which we live

5 1/4 x 8 1/4 in. 421 excerpts SC $7.95*

Order through your local librarian, or send check or money order (including 10% for postage and handling, minimum $1.50) to:

Bahá’í Distribution Service 415 LINDEN AVENUE, WILMETTE, IL 60091 TEL 1-800-323-1880

• Price valid only in the United States

[Page 25]

Sixty attend two-day ‘Friendship Feast’ on Lummi Reservation

A two-day “Friendship Feast,” initiated by Bahá’ís, was held in December on the Lummi Indian Reservation in northwest Washington state.

Sixty people from seven religious denominations attended each day.

The program included music by various groups including a Bahá’í group from Seattle, “Phoenix”; discussions about the social and economic problems on the Reservation and possible solutions to those problems; and several guest speakers.

The event was planned as a social gathering for tribal members, and was so successful that a second “Friendship Feast” was planned for January. The Bahá’ís were acknowledged several times as having initiated and supported the project.

Those plans were begun when Felix Whirlwind Jr., his wife and two-year-old son, and Behrad Majidi traveled from Seattle to the Reservation some 90 miles to the north to visit Indian Bahá’ís, and found only a few of them.

During the visit they found there had been little if any social activity between Bahá’ís on the Reservation and other Bahá’ís.

The Lummi Bahá’ís said the Reservation needed positive social activities, so together they began to plan a social event, inviting other church groups on the Reservation to help.

About 20 people attended the first planning meeting. After that, Felix, Behrad, a local Bahá’í, and members of the Indian Shaker church continued the planning.

The two months of preparation were culminated in the successful social activity for the Lummi Reservation community, meeting the goal of increasing unity within the community.

Circumpolar Council to be held in Canada

Spirit North is the name given to a circumpolar council for Native peoples to be held July 5-12 in Frobisher Bay, Northwest Territories, Canada.

The Hand of the Cause of God Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum will be a special guest, and is to be present July 9 for a commemoration of the Martyrdom of the Báb.

This promises to be a unique gathering of indigenous peoples from North America and the circumpolar countries, with its theme being the spiritual and cultural heritage of Indian and Inuit peoples as reflected in teachings, music, dance and song.

Many workshops will be held on a variety of topics including the role of indigenous people in establishing peace; the education of children for world citizenship; removing prejudices; the role of elders, women and youth; and overcoming hurt through spiritual understanding.

The Council is sponsored by the Bahá’í National Teaching Committee for the Arctic, Canada. For pre-registration forms, you may contact the American Indian Teaching Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or write to the Bahá’í National Center in Thornhill, Ontario, Canada.

Native American Institute has busy schedule

In the first nine months of Bahá’í Year 142, the Native American Bahá’í Institute has held many training sessions, conferences, and other community activities.

The following statistics present a partial picture of the activity during that time: 17 events were held with 220 different people registered and an over-all attendance of 553. Of these, 87 were Indian people, for an over-all attendance of 196.

Most noteworthy among the many activities:

Ruhi Institute workshops conducted last May by Mary Lucas, a pioneer to Colombia, using materials and methods used in the teaching and consolidation of the Faith in Colombia; a Summer Recreation Program involving local Navajo youth in the Houck Chapter community; a summer youth project helped by Dwight Allen and Bahá’ís from the San Francisco Bay area; a visit to the Institute by Mary Gibson, widow of the Universal House of Justice member and well-loved Indian teacher, Amoz Gibson; the Gordon Tong Memorial Council Fire in August with Dr. Ingo ‎Hofman Hofmann‎, an Auxiliary Board member from Germany, attending; and a public program in October presented by Sarita Birkey and her husband, Dick Birkey, a former pioneer on the Navajo Reservation and in Nepal.

The Institute is working with Chester Kahn, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly, on a taped translation in Navajo of “The Promise of World Peace” as well as on the duplication and distribution of Navajo-language Bahá’í deepening tapes.

The Institute is continually developing, although in the past year most of the work has involved maintenance, renovation, upgrading and cleaning to move the facility to ever-higher standards of beauty and usefulness.

In September, a temporary office facility was purchased and brought on campus, thereby making the activity and residential buildings available for their primary purpose.

As the work goes on, the lovely prayer hogan, built last winter and now lit up at night by gentle floodlights, enriches the Institute with a special measure of beauty and serenity, inspiring and welcoming every passerby and traveler and offering the security and peace of prayer, meditation, and spiritual conversation.

Talented Kevin Locke spends week teaching, performing in S. Dakota

The Bahá’ís on the Pine Ridge and Rosebud Indian Reservations in South Dakota enjoyed the talents of Kevin Locke for the week of January 27-31.

Mr. Locke is a Lakota Bahá’í and cultural representative of the Standing Rock Sioux whose performances of dances and traditional flute music are in demand across the U.S. and around the world.

He spent the days working with children at the Porcupine Day School where he had been invited as a guest teacher.

Each evening he spoke at meetings on behalf of the Faith in the towns of Martin, Mission and Wounded Knee.

Near the end of his visit Mr. Locke performed the traditional hoop dance for a large audience at the Porcupine School, to which many local Bahá’ís were invited.

One important evening meeting was devoted to the presentation of “The Promise of World Peace” to Alex Lunderman, the tribal chairman of the Rosebud Tribe, who is a long-time friend of Mr. Locke’s.

Mr. Lunderman shared with the Bahá’ís many interesting stories and conveyed his sincere thanks for having been presented with a copy of the statement from the Universal House of Justice.

As an added treat during his visit, Mr. Locke brought with him a Bahá’í brother from Alaska, Maynard Eakin, who is an Inuit.

Mr. Eakin shared many fascinating stories of his boyhood in Alaska as well as about his travels throughout North America teaching the Faith to Native Americans.

Three young traveling teachers get warm reception in Tuba City

Two Navajo elders were already waiting at the Tuba City (Arizona) Community Center when three young traveling teachers from Colorado arrived on the morning of November 30 to make a presentation on the Faith.

Later, when the meeting got under way, Bahá’ís and non-Bahá’ís from Kaibito, Red Lake and Tuba City listened to the presentation on “The Wonderful Reality of Man” and “The Greatest Message of Unity.”

The speakers said that man was created to know and love God, and that each person must seek the truth for himself.

The greatest message of unity, they said, is that in following the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh, we have the ability to establish world peace and will continue to live peacefully with one another by eliminating the root causes of war, which are prejudices—racial, economic, religious, prejudice among nations, and prejudice between men and women—and by holding firmly to the principle of the oneness of mankind.

“The Story of Mona,” a video tape about a 16-year-old girl who gave her life rather than deny her Faith, was shown, and many Bahá’í pamphlets were taken.

Two people, relatives of Ruth Watson, a Navajo Bahá’í from Red Lake, Arizona, were enrolled in the Faith that day. Ruth helped teach and enroll them.

In the evening, a large group of people who are related to some of the Navajo Bahá’ís in Tuba City attended a talk given by the three youth from Colorado, Kevin Barnes, Jenny Redson and Taraz Samandari.

Steadfast Pine Springs Bahá’ís carry on despite winds of change in community

Twenty-four years ago, nearly 1,000 people gathered for an historic Council Fire at Pine Springs on the Navajo Indian Reservation. On that occasion, some 300 Navajos declared their belief in Bahá’u’lláh.

Since then people have come and gone, and the number of Bahá’ís living in Pine Springs has stabilized at about 30 including the children.

These steadfast souls continue to carry on the Bahá’í life, as evidenced at the Feast of Sultán held January 19 at the home of Fannie Russell and attended by more than 20 men, women and children including families from the neighboring Houck Chapter

See FEAST page 26

Mary Gibson (center), the widow of Amoz Gibson, receives a gift of a Navajo sand-painting of ‘The Greatest Name’ during her visit last year to the Native American Bahá’í Institute in Arizona.

Bahá’ís and their guests gathered last December 29 in Colchester, Vermont, to learn about the culture and present-day needs of the ‎Albenaki Abenaki‎ Indians in Vermont. The event was sponsored by Project Nur, which was recently initiated by the District Teaching Committee of Vermont for teaching Native Americans in that state through love supported by deeds.

Pictured are Bahá’ís at one of the Institutes for pioneers and new believers sponsored every four to six weeks by the Amoz Gibson Project in South Dakota. Attendance by new believers has been growing by about 50 percent per meeting. At the third Institute, held in October, the focus was social and economic development of Bahá’í communities. Consultation permitted the sharing of ideas and suggestions about how a plan for one community might be adapted to be more appropriate for another. [Page 26]

VIE Chart

from page 5

District Name	'Starting Block' Info			Current Month Info (Masa’il)
	Membership as of 12/9/84	Number giving	Percentage of participation	Membership (01/21/86)	Number giving	Percentage of participation
Colorado NE
Colorado SE
Colorado W
Connecticut
DelMarVa						5
Florida C
Florida N
Florida SE
Florida SW						3
Georgia NE
Georgia NW						1
Georgia S						7
Idaho N/Washington E
Idaho S						3
Illinois N No. 1						2
Illinois N No. 2
Illinois S
Indiana						1
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana N
Louisiana S
Maine
Maryland W/D.C.
Massachusetts
Michigan Mainland
Minnesota N
Minnesota S
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Navajo/Hopi
Nebraska
Nevada N
Nevada S
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico N
New Mexico S/Texas W
New York E
New York W
North Carolina C
North Carolina E
North Carolina W
North Dakota
Ohio N
Ohio S
Oklahoma E
Oklahoma W
Oregon E
Oregon W	1
Pennsylvania E
Pennsylvania W
Rhode Island
South Carolina C	1					1
South Carolina E No. 1	2					2
South Carolina E No. 2	1					1
South Carolina N
South Carolina S No. 1						1
South Carolina S No. 2						2
South Carolina W
South Dakota
Tennessee E
Tennessee W
Texas C No. 1
Texas C No. 2
Texas E No. 1
Texas E No. 2
Texas N
Texas S
Utah
Vermont
Virginia N
Virginia SE	(New districts; established after 12/9/84)
Virginia SW
Washington NW
Washington SW
West Virginia
Wis. N/Peninsular Mich.
Wisconsin S
Wyoming

Peruvian Consul among those at meeting in Houston Center

The Peruvian Consul in Houston, Texas, was among those who attended a meeting December 28 at the Houston Bahá’í Center at which Tom Lysaght, a pioneer to Peru and staff member of Radio Bahá’í del Lago Titicaca near Puno, gave a slide presentation depicting the station’s social and economic development programs in the Puno area.

The slides illustrated how Radio Bahá’í helps in the human and cultural development of the rural Indians of Puno, and fosters self-respect and dignity by broadcasting indigenous music in local Indian languages and by hiring local Indian villagers who comprise more than half the station’s staff.

Mr. Lysaght was asked by Benjamin and Susan Hansen of Houston, with whom he stayed during his two days in Houston, to give the slide presentation.

The Peruvian Consul and Vice-Consul accepted the Hansens’ invitation to attend, as did many Bahá’ís including all nine members of the Spiritual Assembly of Houston.

The Peruvians were visibly moved by Radio Bahá’í’s efforts to combat oral dehydration among children in Peru, and expressed their deep appreciation for the station’s efforts on behalf of their countrymen.

Speaking of Mr. Lysaght, the Consul, Sr. Paredes, was heard to remark that even Peruvians from coastal Lima are ‎loathe loath‎ to brave the bleak, windswept and chilly environment of Andean Puno, and here was an American who had left the comforts of the U.S. to help his people.

As the Consul voiced his appreciation and placed himself at the disposal of the Houston Bahá’í community, one of the many unforeseen benefits of the “prince of all goodly deeds”—pioneering—was readily perceived by all.

Bahá’ís in Butte-Silver Bow, Montana, proclaim Faith with number of projects

The Bahá’í community of Butte-Silver Bow, Montana, has recently completed a number of projects designed to promote an awareness of the Faith in that community:

• The Bahá’í Club at Montana Tech presented the following books to the school library: The Bahá’í Faith: The Emerging Global Religion; For the Good of Mankind; August Forel and the Bahá’í Faith, and The Heart of the Gospel.

• The children’s class presented three books to the public library’s children’s section: Dragons of Rizvania, The Spotlessly Leopard, and B.J. and the Language of the Woodland.

• A fund-raising auction held on the anniversary of the Birth of Bahá’u’lláh raised more than $1,000 for the National Fund. Auctioned were books from three former community members who willed their books to the Assembly.

• The “Mona” video was shown to a high school class and used as the basis of several firesides. Also, the “Mona” record was loaned to the college radio station.

• A special fireside was held with J.F. Strain of Anthony, Idaho, who presented slides with music and illustrated how to use proclamation materials to attract attention to the Faith.

• An all-afternoon showing of Bahá’í videos was held with several non-Bahá’ís present.

• Hugh and Laoma Gray of Cascade, Idaho, presented slides of their pilgrimage and trip around the world at the college.

• Also, 40 copies of “The Promise of World Peace” have been given to interested persons in the community with plans to distribute nearly another 100 copies.

Feast

from page 25

community.

Prayers and Writings were shared in English and Navajo, followed by consultation on arrangements for Ayyám-i-Há and the presentation of “The Promise of World Peace” to local Chapter leaders, and a delicious traditional meal of mutton and fry bread.

Joining the friends for the social part of Feast were Fannie’s son and his Hopi wife, not yet Bahá’ís, who were visiting for the weekend from their home near Winslow, Arizona.

Warm friendships were made, with promises of future visits back and forth between the Bahá’ís and their guests.

Questions

from page 15

War is a resource with endless possibilities for use. We are sure that your community will find creative ways to take advantage of this new compilation. But a word of warning—be sure to order copies early, before they sell out!

(Peace: More Than an End to War will be available by early April in hardcover for $16 and in softcover for $8.95.)

Answers

to crossword puzzle

ACROSS

1. Coma	19. Judge
4. Learned	21. Hate
8. Weed	23. Om
9. Language	24. America
11. UHF	27. Ya
12. Kin	28. Dunce
13. Issue	32. Most
15. Bone	33. Oneness
	34. MH

DOWN

1. Color	15. Black	26. Faith
2. Mankind	16. Noe	29. Use
3. Aegis	17. Human	30. Ism
4. Lwa	18. White	31. Do
5. Rd	19. Joy	32. Me
6. Eth	20. Garden
7. Differ	22. Tae
10. Uns	25. Races
11. Uto
14. UN

Pawtucket Bahá’í children visit nursing home

On December 22, eight students from the Bahá’í Sunday School in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, accompanied by five adults, visited the Maynard Rest Home where they joined the 19 residents in singing holiday songs.

The three- to five-year-old class, led by a Bahá’í youth, Diane Foulk, presented greeting cards they had made in class.

The eight- to 14-year-olds, led by Rondelle Merlino, presented small mugs with candies as gifts, while Ms. Merlino presented the staff of the rest home with a copy of Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era for its library.

Also presented to the residents were a fruit tray and holiday wreath, crafted by both classes under the direction of Sunday school administrator Pauline Labbe.

Photographs were taken for the Pawtucket Bahá’í archives and the nursing home’s photo album. [Page 27]

10 YEARS AGO

The Hand of the Cause of God Raḥmatu’lláh Muhájir travels to 13 cities in 11 southern states to discuss the new Southern Teaching Program, encouraging support and commitment.

Dr. Muhájir urges the friends to teach families, set up children’s classes, and make weekly visits to new believers.

His itinerary includes stops in Birmingham, Alabama; Atlanta, Georgia; Miami and Orlando, Florida; Memphis, Tennessee; New Orleans, Louisiana; Houston and Dallas, Texas; Tulsa, Oklahoma; Jackson, Mississippi; Columbia, South Carolina; Richmond, Virginia, and the Cherokee Indian Reservation in North Carolina ...

The new program for mass teaching in the southern states is announced the weekend of January 24 at the Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute in South Carolina.

The program calls for the immediate resumption of efforts to enroll large numbers of people in nine states having nine or more local Spiritual Assemblies. The nine are South Carolina, North Carolina, Alabama, Florida, Texas, Virginia, Maryland, Oklahoma and Georgia ...

The Spiritual Assembly of New York City acquires a Bahá’í Center at 53 E. 11th St. in Manhattan.

The National Spiritual Assembly cables the Spiritual Assembly of New York City: “Acquisition property marks another milestone in steady advance New York toward destiny foreseen by beloved Master, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, when He designated it City of the Covenant” ...

Bahá’ís and their guests in San Francisco enjoy an open house celebration December 2 at that city’s newly purchased Bahá’í Center, whose acquisition is made possible through a trust fund left to the Bahá’í community by Ella Goodall Cooper.

Mrs. Cooper and her mother, Helen Goodall, were instrumental in the establishment of the Faith in San Francisco ...

Bahá’í exhibits and dioramas honoring the U.S. Bicentennial year are placed February 1 in six major transportation centers.

Exhibits are installed at Chicago’s O’Hare Airport, the Penn Central railroad station in New York City, and Dulles Airport in Washington, D.C.

Dioramas are set up at New York’s LaGuardia Airport and at the airports in Atlanta, Georgia, and Dallas, Texas.

A toll-free number for the Bahá’í National Center is included in each exhibit ...

On World Religion Day, January 18, Bahá’ís throughout the country open proclamation doors.

In New York City, a display is set up in a branch of the New York Public Library. It emphasizes the oneness of religion featuring holy books, symbols, photographs of Temples of each major religion, and quotations from all of the Manifestations of God.

The first program in Shawano, honoring World Religion Day, includes prayers, a brief talk, and the film, “A New Wind.” ...

Letters

from page 3

and encouragement to the believers.

Also, I know there are times when an Assembly must intervene to protect the Faith, which comes up frequently as a justification for stern action.

Certainly, we all want the Faith to appear high-minded and upstanding in the eyes of the world. In fact, in Iran, if the enemies of the Faith discern moral laxity they sometimes use this as a reason for their persecutions. But in this country we don’t live with that sword over our heads.

There is a fine line here that can be too easily crossed. Carried to an extreme, it can become a superficial image while the inner quality is sacrificed.

The Faith is a body of believers, not simply an abstract principle. As Ms. Walborn wrote, everything has to proceed with love in it.

Recently, the UN condemned Iran for its treatment of the Bahá’ís and its infringement of their human rights.

“Human rights are God-given rights.” It is one of our quotations. Perhaps it would be good to continually review our record on human rights within the Bahá’í community itself. They are sometimes easy to forget.

Our country is one of the few places on earth where human rights are a basic principle. In our rush toward one world, we should make sure that our best principles don’t get left behind.

Freedom always appears more chaotic from the outside, but only freedom will ensure the growth of inwardly disciplined and responsible citizens. I would hate to live in a world where one order prevailed and human rights had been forgotten.

The Founders of the Faith promised us that when we are united, our Assemblies will truly become spiritual bodies.

To me, unity is not talking the same, looking and acting the same, or believing in exactly the same ideas. It is rather that sense of the One Who created us and moves in all of us.

The closer we can come to sensing that Oneness, the more loving and caring we will become. In that day there will be no more “wounded hearts.”

Constance Black Kensington, Maryland

To the Editor:

I’ve been hearing a lot of talk lately that “You don’t make Bahá’ís, you find them.”

I would dispute that. In fact, Bahá’u’lláh chooses them. There are many people in the world who live like Bahá’ís, and some of them, after hearing about the Faith, never declare.

I hope I won’t hear anymore about “finding Bahá’ís,” because it’s Bahá’u’lláh who chooses them. He may lead us to them, but we don’t find them on our own.

Lori Fabian San Diego, California

To the Editor:

Frances Edelstein (Letters, November) says she finds Kenneth Lyons’ remark that he would like to see a Bahá’í Bible “a puzzlement.” Perhaps it is not so puzzling if considered in another way.

As we know, the Old Testament is composed of the five books of Moses, which were put together in one corpus, as were later the four gospels.

Each of these books might be considered separately and also sold separately, but they have been brought together for the sake of convenience.

I think what Mr. Lyons was suggesting is that it would be convenient if some of the writings of Bahá’u’lláh were brought together in one book. Thus in one book there would be, for instance, the Kitáb-i-Íqán, The Seven Valleys and the Four Valleys, The Hidden Words, Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, and so on.

This would enable one to find in one book several of the books of Bahá’u’lláh, which are now sold separately.

When, for instance, a person were to travel, it would be convenient to have only one book to carry rather than five or even 10. That is one reason why a Bahá’í “Bible” would be convenient.

Another factor is cost. If one were teaching the Faith to someone who could not afford to buy many separate volumes, perhaps one book with some of the major writings could be purchased or given at a lower price.

In any case, I think we should pray and consult about whether a collection of Bahá’u’lláh’s writings in a single volume would be of service to His Cause.

Robert Lefkowitz Brooklyn, New York

To the Editor:

The October 1985 issue of “Youth Hotline” (Volume 5, No. 1), indicated to me that some Bahá’ís do not have current information on college fraternities. I believe that the advice given was inappropriate.

College fraternities in America are not “secret societies” such as those forbidden to Bahá’ís. A secret society is one whose membership, objectives, and operations are secret to all but its members.

College fraternities are societies with secrets. Their members, purposes, accomplishments, etc. are matters of public knowledge.

The “secrets” they guard are generally limited to their passwords, handshakes, and initiation ceremonies. The secrets are used as the means by which members from chapters at other schools are identified.

The right we exercise as individuals in choosing our friends is incorrectly seen as discrimination when exercised by an organized group. If the membership provisions and requirements of the various groups were researched, the absence of specific requirements based on economics, social class, race or national origin would be evident.

Restrictive clauses were generally removed in the 1960s. These organizations could not exist if they were exclusive, because not enough people would qualify to keep them alive.

Perhaps the greatest loss to the Faith is the non-participation of Bahá’í youth in college fraternities and sororities. I introduced my Sigma Chi fraternity brothers to the Faith, and they were receptive to it.

Think of the opportunity to teach the Faith by leading a Bahá’í life while living in a fraternity or sorority house.

I don’t feel that advising Bahá’í youth to consult with the local Spiritual Assembly before deciding to affiliate was the best advice. Few Assemblies have enough knowledge about specific fraternities to give accurate advice.

I hope Bahá’í youth will take a closer look at the fraternity and sorority systems on their campuses. Fraternity life can be very rewarding.

Albert H. Saunders Rockville, Maryland

To the Editor:

I have been a traveling teacher for some time now. There is much work that needs to be done.

Sometimes in my travels I find that homefront pioneers have been in a particular locality but that they have left before the Bahá’ís of the area or community knew they were there.

This has happened twice in Silver City. When I received its membership list I noticed some new names. I quickly called the Bahá’ís and asked that they get in touch with the newcomers, but they found that the homefront pioneers had already moved back to larger communities or simply left.

Please, homefront pioneers, before you leave your post, get in touch with your Auxiliary Board member or District Teaching Committee and ask for help. Thank you.

Oscar Arrambide Anthony, New Mexico

Mrs. Esther Glauder, pioneer to Zimbabwe, dies at post at 78

Esther Glauder, a pioneer since 1961 to Zimbabwe, died November 10 following a brief illness. She was 78 years old.

Mrs. Glauder, who was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and her husband, Ernest, became Bahá’ís in 1959 during a Naw-Rúz celebration at the Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois.

They established a school in Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) that grew from 20 students to more than 400 while nurturing a steadily growing Bahá’í community.

Mrs. Glauder was elected to the National Spiritual Assembly in the mid-1970s and served as national treasurer for four or five years.

The Glauders were instrumental in obtaining property and facilities for a National Bahá’í Institute near Harare.

On learning of her death, the Universal House of Justice cabled: “Deeply grieved passing loyal steadfast Esther Glauder. Convey loving sympathy, assure you fervent prayers Holy Shrines progress her soul Abhá Kingdom.”

Martha’s Vineyard to host peace conference

On April 19, the Bahá’í Group of Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, is sponsoring a conference honoring the United Nations Year of Peace.

For information about ferries (most important) and accommodations, contact Victoria de León, P.O. Box 994, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568 (phone 617-693-4581).

IN MEMORIAM

Ismail Bassim Potsdam, NY Date Unknown	Elaine Ingersoll Afton, VA July 24, 1985	Mary Preston Delavan, WI November 29, 1985
Dennis Beasley Morgantown, WV November 10, 1985	Clare Irwin Healdsburg, CA November 28, 1985	Julia Mae Pridgett Covington, GA November 1985
Annie Blackwell Covington, GA January 13, 1986	David Jones Corvallis, MT October 3, 1985	Hazel Rinaldi Wells, ME October 27, 1985
Wallace Carter Sr. Escondido, CA November 10, 1985	Ramon Lazarin La Union, NM December 19, 1985	Juan Rubio Sunland Park, NM September 10, 1985
Matt Cole Covington, GA January 10, 1986	Tobe Leslie Madison, AL Date Unknown	Ismael Saenz La Union, NM April 21, 1985
Olive Craig Edgemont, CA December 1981	Maude Maddox Covington, GA 1984	Elliot Sater Scottsdale, AZ Date Unknown
Jessie Davis Cowpens, SC Date Unknown	Margarito Macias Anthony, NM Date Unknown	Ralph H. Scott Corvallis, OR November 1985
Frances Dunlap Mira Loma, CA November 24, 1985	Fazlollah Mavaddat Escondido, CA April 4, 1985	Michael Vereen Conway, SC April 22, 1985
Tiny Evans Conyers, GA January 1, 1986	Anthony McCants Chicago, IL December 7, 1985	Pearl Warren Neah Bay, WA January 16, 1986
Emma Flanigan Conyers, GA 1984	Harry McCarty Sr. Neah Bay, WA December 5, 1985	Addie Webb Covington, GA December 7, 1984
Earl Hamm Conyers, GA 1984	Earl L. McKeever Berkeley, CA December 21, 1985	Sue Williamson San Diego, CA November 29, 1985
Loraine Hawes Lucerne, CA December 1984	Badieh Parsiani-Rafii San Diego, CA November 22, 1985	Rose Woghan Tucson, AZ January 4, 1986
Gail Houlihan Boulder Creek, CA December 16, 1985	Stanley Perry Brier Hill, NY Date Unknown	Edmund Zablockas Berkeley, CA December 12, 1985
William Howard Marshallville, GA Date Unknown	Willie Phillips Covington, GA Date Unknown

[Page 28]

Children

from page 9

“...From the age of five their formal education must begin. That is, during the daytime they should be looked after in a place where there are teachers, and should learn good conduct.

“Here they should be taught, in play, some of the letters and words and a little reading—as is done in certain countries where they fashion letters and words out of sweets and give them to the child.” (Bahá’í Education, p. 39)

Keeping in mind these principles, there are many ways that we can organize highly suitable activities for our preschool children at summer schools, winter schools, children’s classes, and special events. These should not be confused with formal education or schooling.

The key is to plan activities so that children can learn important things, such as prayers and simple ideas about the Faith, as well as manners, courtesy, politeness, sharing, etc., in a loving and enjoyable environment.

The Writings also suggest that activities should promote child-to-child interaction, so that “one child may question the other.”

This implies that children learn even when they are not being “taught,” and perhaps that young children learn best when they are actively engaged in their own learning with many interesting things to do.

Bahá’í children’s programs for preschoolers can be rich and happy times. These are the years for building the foundation of the child’s love of God, good character, and love for learning.

Teachers should keep in mind that these children are young, and classes should include frequent changes of activities—inside/outside, quiet/active, group/individual, teacher-directed/free choice, etc.

Teachers should also remember that there are many ways to learn other than “book learning”—songs, games, arts and crafts, drama and movement, field trips, walks, invited guests, exploring and collecting, making and taking apart, being of service, discussions and questions, etc.

Let us also remember that preschool children have important tasks to accomplish in many areas—spiritual, social, emotional, intellectual and physical. They are preparing for a lifetime of more formal learning and living.

Perhaps we should consider the advice which ‘Abdu’l-Bahá gave to a five-year-old Shoghi Effendi on the child’s request for a letter:

“...Now is not the time for you to read and write, it is a time for jumping about and chanting ‘O my God!,’ therefore memorize the prayers of the Blessed Beauty and chant them that I may hear them, because there is no time for anything else.” (The Priceless Pearl, p. 8)

‘Alternate’ New Year’s eve party staged by youth in Pawtucket

“YOUth Can Move the World” was the theme of an “alternate New Year’s Eve party” sponsored by the Bahá’í Youth Committee of Pawtucket, Rhode Island.

The party provided an alternative for area youth: a drug-free, alcohol-free rock ’n roll party.

Among those attending were nine non-Bahá’í youth and one non-Bahá’í adult.

During a break, the video “Mona With the Children” was shown, followed by a brief talk on the Faith and the Bahá’í Youth Movement.

At midnight, a non-alcoholic toast was drunk and everyone linked arms in a circle of unity to sing “We Are the World.”

The non-Bahá’í youth commented about the good time that was had without drugs or alcohol, and asked that the party become an annual event. Some said they would like to come to firesides to learn more about the Faith.

HUB firesides held

The Spiritual Assembly of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, is sponsoring monthly HUB firesides for area Bahá’ís and their friends.

World peace is to be the major topic, with each of the gatherings introducing one of the Bahá’í principles that leads to peace. The first fireside, in February, focused on “World Peace Through True National Unity.”

Aunt Fly

from page 4

a “one- or two-Valley” dip. Accompanied by Prayers and Meditations, it delivers those very necessary mystical amino acids, the building blocks of spiritual growth.

Come the weekend, lay off the snacks and indulge yourself with a fully cooked meal consisting of an hour or more of the writings of Bahá’u’lláh (real proteins).

For a really substantial breakfast, we recommend a Tablet of Ahmad and the long obligatory prayer. Added to your Bahá’í community activities, these provide a real feast of certitude for your banquet of spiritual delights.

Happy eating!

Aunt Fly

Subscribers, not National Fund, pay for shipping U.S. Bahá’í Report

Who pays for U.S. Bahá’í Report? Not the National Fund. It is those Bahá’ís who subscribe to U.S. Bahá’í Report who pay the bills for shipping more than 1,400 copies to non-Bahá’í leaders of government, institutions and the media.

The response from those leaders has been warm and encouraging. For example, Ohio state Sen. Robert Ney responded to the fall issue, which included a report of his talk to the Bahá’í International Youth Conference last July, with a letter that read:

“Thank you for sending me a recent copy of U.S. Bahá’í Report. As you know, I am an active follower of the struggles of the Bahá’í faith and found the articles in your report to be most informative on these issues. Thank you again for keeping me informed.”

If your Bahá’í community has developed friendly relations with state senators and representatives, especially while sponsoring state resolutions on behalf of the Bahá’ís in Iran, forward their names to Bahá’í Subscriber Service and they can also receive U.S. Bahá’í Report.

Bahá’ís who wish to subscribe can do so for only $10 a year or $18 for two years and know that they are supporting the newest and perhaps the most influential Bahá’í publication in the U.S.

Mayor of Fort Collins given peace statement at formal reception

On January 5, at a formal reception in the city’s elegant Lincoln Center, the mayor of Fort Collins, Colorado, received a copy of the Universal House of Justice’s peace statement, “The Promise of World Peace.”

In December, the mayor and city council had proclaimed 1986 the International Year of Peace in Fort Collins.

About 80 of the more than 500 people who were invited attended the semi-formal reception in January including people from Bolivia, China and France.

Among the groups represented were the Women’s International League of Peace and Freedom and the Poudre Nuclear Freeze Beyond War.

Joe McLaughlin, the mayor of Pendleton, Oregon, accepts a copy of ‘The Promise of World Peace’ from Pendleton Bahá’í Bernice Erskine. The presentation was made on Human Rights Day, December 10. Afterward, the mayor signed a proclamation declaring 1986 ‘International Year of Peace’ in Pendleton. This was followed by a radio interview which included a synopsis of the peace statement and an announcement of a January peace symposium to be conducted by artist Jim Lavadour.