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[Page 1]

MESSAGES FROM THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE

Ridvan: Time to assess progress

Naw-Rúz: New Plan ushers in fourth epoch

To the Baha’is of the United States Dear Baha’i Friends,

This new year marks the seventieth anniversary of the Tablets of the Divine Plan, that sublime series of letters addressed by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to the North American Baha’is and which, constituting one of the mighty Charters of His Father’s Faith, have inspired your highly prized community to achieve during the first three epochs of the Formative Age what no mind can fully assess, nor tongue adequately praise.

Now, at the inception of the fourth epoch of that Age, your National Spiritual Assembly, working in close collaboration with the Continental Board of Counselors and drawing upon the advice of the delegates to your National Convention and of your local Spiritual Assemblies, has the inestimable privilege of devising the plans that will chart your course during the next six years to the eve of the Holy Year when you will join your sister communities in commemorating the centenary of the Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh and host, in the City of the Covenant, the second Baha’i World Congress.

The performance of the American Baha’i community during the Plan now coming to a close has indeed enhanced by its monumental success in various fields the splendor of its past accomplishments.

Although it is yet too soon to sum up the results of your sevenyear-long efforts, the highlights of the outstanding array of achievements finally to be reported will undoubtedly include: the astonishing progress of your relations with your national government, particularly in defense of our oppressed brethren in Iran; the remarkable campaign you have mounted to diffuse the peace statement to all ranks of American society, beginning with the presentation to your Head of State; the resounding conference and accompanying activities which marked your observance of International Youth Year; the early attainment of your local Assembly and locality goals; the enormous output of your human and material resources for international pioneering and traveling teaching; and the inauguration of your radio station, WLGI.

See NAW-RUZ page 12

To the Baha’is of the World Dearly-loved Friends,

The Divine Springtime is fast advancing and all the atoms of the earth are responding to the vibrating influence of Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation.

The evidences of this new life are clearly apparent in the progress of the Cause of God. As we contemplate, however momentarily, the unfolding pattern of its growth, we can but recognize, with wonder and gratitude, the irresistible power of that Almighty Hand which guides its destinies.

This progress has accelerated notably during the Seven Year Plan, witnessed by the achievement of many important enterprises throughout the Baha’ world and vital developments at the heart of the Cause itself.

The restoration and opening to pilgrimage of the southern wing of the House of ‘Abdu’ll4h Pasha; the completion and occupation of the Seat of the Universal House of Justi the approval of detailed plans for the remaining edifices around the Arc; the expansion of the membership and responsibilities of the International Teaching Center and the Continental Boards of Counselors; the establishment of the offices of Social and Economic Development, and of Public Information; the dedication of the Mother Temple of the Pacific, and dramatic progress with the building of the Temple in India; the expansion of the teaching work throughout the world, resulting in the formation of twenty-three new National Spiritual Assemblies, nearly 8,000 new local Spiritual Assemblies, the opening of more than

16,000 new localities and representation within the Baha’i community of 300 new tribes; the issuing of 2,196 new publications, 898 of which are editions of the Holy Text, and the enrichment of Baha’j literature by productions in 114 new languages; the initiation of 737 new social and economic development projects; the addition of three radio stations, with three more soon to be inaugurated—these stand out as conspicuous achievements in a Plan which will be remembered as having set the seal on the third epoch of the Formative Age.

The opening of that Plan coincided with the recrudescence of savage persecution of the Baha’i community in Iran, a deliberate effort to eliminate the Cause of God from the land of its

See RIDVAN page 4

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

House of Justice defines Formative Age epochs

The Universal House of Justice, in a letter dated January 2, 1986, referred to the inception of the fourth epoch of the Formative Age of the Faith.

In response to questions subsequently put to the House of Justice about the periods related to the earlier epochs of that Age, the Research Department at the World Center was asked to prepare a statement on the subject.

The statement, released in February, details the three major evolutionary stages through which the Faith must pass—the Apostolic or Heroic Age, the Formative or Transitional Age, and finally, the Golden Age which will represent “the consummation of this glorious Dispensation.””

The Heroic Age (1844-1921), according to the Guardian, consisted of three epochs which coincided with the Babi Dispensation and the ministries of Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

“The Formative Age, in which we now live and serve,” the Research Department says in its report, ‘‘was ushered in with the passing of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

“The epochs of the Formative Age mark progressive stages in the evolution of the organic Baha’i

cations network. Page 8

IN THE NEWS...

A MEMORIAL service is held in Wilmette for former Counselor Angus Cowan who died at his home in Canada. Page 2

THE AUTOMATIC Contribution System (ACS) has become an established alternate method of giving to the Fund. Page 5

THE NATIONAL Spiritual Assembly upgrades its communi THE BAHA’T Schools network offers an excellent environment in which to grow and learn. Page 12

interest from individuals and the various

should be included whenever possit

the U.S.A.

The American Bahd’{ (USPS 042-430) is published monthly by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of the United States, 536 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, IL 60091. Postmaster: Send address changes to the Office of Membership and Records Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. Editor: Jack Bowers. Associate editor: Laura E. Hildreth. The American Bahá’í welcomes news, letters and other items of

written in a clear and concise manner; color or black and white glossy photographs . Please address all materials to The Editor, The American Bahá’í, Wilmette, IL 60091. Copyright © 1986 by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’ is of the United States. World rights reserved. Printed in

tutions of the Faith. Articles should be

community and signal the maturation of its institutions, thus enabling the Faith to operate at new levels and to initiate new functions.

“The timing of each epoch is designated by the Head of the Faith, and given the organic nature of evolutionary development, the transition from one epoch to another may not be abrupt, but

See EPOCHS page 4

168 town meetings to produce goals

of Six Year Plan

During June, a series of 168 district ‘‘town meetings”’ will be held across the U.S. to discuss the Six Year Plan.

The day-long events, patterned after last year’s successful conferences for local Spiritual Assemblies, will focus on three main topics:

1. Sharing local Six Year Plan goals, as recorded in the planning guides sent to each community in April.

2. The kinds of support available to communities to help them achieve their goals.

3. Recommendations for national goals of the Six Year Plan.

Sponsored by the National Spiritual Assembly and including the participation of the Continental Board of Counselors and its supporting institutions, the Auxiliary Boards and their assistants, the meetings are designed to provide an opportunity for Assemblies, Groups and individuals to come together to share their ideas about the development of the American Baha’i community during the next six years.

They will also be the first gathering of the believers in their newly formed electoral districts (see article on page 13).

The town meetings will take place on the weekends of June

See TOWN page 4

Volume 17, No. 5

May 1986

On April 11, the largest contingent of religious leaders allowed outside the Soviet Union in recent decades visited the Baha’i House

of Worship in Wilmette. The group, representing the Russian Orthodox, Armenian and Baptist churches, was in the U.S. to attend a conference of Russian and American clergy. During their visit to the House of Worship, each of the clergymen was given a presentation copy of ‘The Promise of World Peace’ with a Russian translation supplied by the National Teaching Committee of Sice. They also received copies of

‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Tablet to Dr. Auguste Forel. The group was quite interested to learn that Dr. Forel was a Bahá’í, and that the first Bahá’í House of Worship had been built in Russia. They were especially interested in the devotional services at the House of Worship and in the principle of the equality of men and women. The group was accompanied on its tour by a representative of the National Council of Churches and a Photographer from the Chicago Tribune.

UN Human Rights Commission adopts fifth resolution on Iran

On March 12, the United Nations Commission on Human Rights adopted its fifth resolution on the human rights situation in the Islamic Republic of Iran.

The new resolution, following closely in language and intent the resolution adopted by the UN General Assembly last December, calls for the appointment of a new Special Representative of the Commission whose task would be to present a report on the human rights situation in Iran, including that of minority groups such as

the Baha’is, to the General As sembly at its next session later this year, as well as to the Commission on Human Rights at its 1987 session.

The resolution expresses deep concern over the specific and detailed allegations of grave human rights violations in Iran including those related to the right of freedom of thought, conscience and religion, and the right of religious minorities to profess and practice their own religion, and urges the government of Iran to

See RESOLUTION page 25 [Page 2]2./ The American Baha’i / May 1986

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GB VIEWPOINT

At the same time that it points to the need for positive change in our world, the term ‘‘world government” also arouses, for many reasons, deep resistance both in the public and politicians and creates serious problems in trying to mobilize clear thought and effective strategies on the issue of

world peace. The term’s defects are too nu By Ellen Wallen, Beloit, Wisconsin

World government: Redefining terms

merous to detail at length here. Their cumulative effect, however, is to short-circuit a full and positive response to the issue of peace, and psychologically to paralyze most potential advocates. In a secular context, a few of the term’s more obvious faults include (a) over-generality, resulting in automatic fears of oppression and the over-centralization of

Angus Cowan dies in Canada

HEARTS GRIEF-STRICKEN PASSING OUTSTANDING PROMOTER CAUSE ANGUS COWAN. HIS SERVICES AS PREEMINENT BAHA’l TEACHER OF INDIAN PEOPLES, HIS UNCEASING LABORS THROUGHOUT LONG YEARS’ DEVOTION RANGED FROM LOCAL AND NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLIES TO AUXILIARY BOARD AND BOARD COUNSELORS. HIS COMPASSION, COURTESY, HUMILITY, MAGNANIMITY UNFORGETTABLE, BAHA’l COMMUNITY CANADA ROBBED OF A DEDICATED, NOBLE WORKER WHO BORE HIS SUFFERINGS TO THE VERY END WITH EXEMPLARY FORTITUDE. CONVEY LOVING CONDOLENCE HIS BELOVED WIFE AND FAMILY AND ASSURANCES ARDENT PRAYERS HIS RADIANT SOUL’S PROGRESS THROUGHOUT WORLDS OF GOD. UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE

A memorial service for Counselor Angus Cowan, who died March 9 at his home in Invermere, British Columbia, after a lengthy illness, was held March 29 at the Baha’i House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois.

Among those attending were members of the National Spiritual Assembly of Canada who were meeting that weekend with the U.S. National Assembly.

A brief eulogy was given by fellow Counselor Don Rogers, also of Canada.

Mr. Cowan, who was forced to retire as a Counselor because of his worsening physical condition, later received a letter from the Universal House of Justice saying that his services were still extremely valuable.

Mr. Cowan immediately asked to have his typewriter repaired so that he could write words of encouragement to his many friends throughout Canada and the world.

It was typical of the spirit that animated Mr. Cowan throughout his many years of dedicated service to the Cause of God.

“He always epitomized service in all aspects of his life,” said Counselor Rogers. ‘‘His kindness, his non-judgmental approach toward other people, and his ability to treat everyone as equals serve as an example and encouragement to

many of us, and have shown us what it really means to be a Baha’i.

Mr. Cowan was especially wellloved by the Native American peoples of Canada among whom he worked and taught for many years, and in 1978, at the National Convention in Alaska, he was adopted into the Eagle clan of the Tlingit tribe in what was described by the Alaska Baha’i News as “‘one of the most unifying events’’ of the Convention.

He delivered the closing address at that memorable event, saying in part, “‘We have a taste of the Kingdom of God. But we must pray every day so as not to get rolled back up in the old world.

“Prayer is like armor, and the more we pray, the thicker it will be and the more protection we'll have to live in a crumbling society.””

Shirley Lindstrom, an Auxiliary Board member from Canada and a member of the Tlingit tribe, referring to the high destiny of the Native peoples spoken of by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in the Tablets of the Divine Plan, said, ‘‘Angus believed this fully. Even in the face of prejudice and difficulties, he kept encouraging the Natives to arise and fulfill their high destiny.

“His love was like a magnet, and the Native people responded to that.’”

This month’s article, “World government: redefining our terms,”’ was written by John T. Dale Jr. of Takoma Park, Maryland, who is executive secretary of the Washington-based Independent Commission on Respect for International Law.

human power and authority; (b) a mechanical, ‘‘ready-made remedy”’ quality that obscures deeper and more accurate analysis of the international legal and political system; and (c) an elitism that, to ordinary citizens, makes ‘‘world government’’ seem always to be “someone else’s job” and that, to leaders, makes it seem like a further set of constraints and an enormously risky shift of their personal power and control to unpredictable outside agents.

Used in the fundamentalist context, as in “‘world government by Jesus,’’ the term constitutes a “vain imagination’ that again fails to forward people’s understanding of and control over the real world.

For these reasons, it is strategically and historically urgent, given the Universal House of Justice’s peace statement and the International Year of Peace, that we Baha’ fs concentrate on reconceptualizing and rephrasing the positive elements of the concept of world government in ways that do not carry with them so much negativity.

If we can release the hidden positive potential of ‘‘world government’’ in ways that get people to “‘yes,”” we will obviously hasten and ensure our success.

In my own experience I’ve found that if instead of talking about ‘‘world government’’ I talk about ‘self-government at the global level,”’ people’s heads and hearts start to become positive rather than negative.

So instead of ‘establishing world government”’ I talk about “improving our patterns and methods of self-government at the global level,’ and most people emotionally find it impossible to object.

To lend concreteness to these metaphors, I point to the example of the international advisory referendum proposed by Costa Rica as part of the International Year of Peace, whereby qualified voters around the world would cast of ficial advisory ballots on major issues of international public concern.

Audiences thus immediately begin to see that a neglected yet workable mechanism exists by which they could be (and, by all rights, should be) taking part more directly in global-level decision-making.

Because they see that chances for world peace could in fact be significantly enhanced by this kind of decision-making process, they also begin to feel that world peace is something they can assertively demand to help create without the need for civil disobedience, and certainly without the need to waste further energy on mere protest. ting is the quintessence of civilized behavior. Demanding an international advisory vote on issues of life and death importance is too legitimate for governments to deny for long (once the advisory referendum idea becomes widely known).

The ‘‘self-government”’ terminology thus overcomes all three of the basic defects of “world government” terminology: (a) it is more specific and specifiable; (b) it is the opposite of mechanical and ready-made; and (c) it is the opposite of elitist sentiment.

The “self-government” terminology is inherently freedom- and process-oriented. It thus avoids the locked-in-concrete sensation we instinctively react against when we hear the term ‘‘world government.”

Unlike the ‘‘us/them’’ nature of “world government”’ terminology, “‘self-government’’ puts each citizen and all citizens squarely together at the center of the global system.

There is more. International citizen voting arrangements by themselves are obviously not the entire solution. There needs to be an overarching integrative context or system of principles that leads us to world peace, for international citizen voting per se leaves unresolved the many problems of partisan and power-based patterns of decision-making; communication, understanding and functional solidarity across languages, cultures and political boundaries; and the paralysis of will that comes from lack of perceived organic connections among the world’s religions

and between theistic and nontheistic world views.

By bringing ‘‘self-government’’ terminology into this integrative context, by studying what makes for successful and healthy systems of self-government (namely, their “communicational health’ and their obedience to the laws of God), we arrive at the comprehensive messianic realism God has given to us in the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh.

Self-government, within the Baha’i context, is guided by God. It is the Kingdom of God on earth, and speaking of things in this way reveals the Faith as immediately (not merely distantly) relevant to the solution of the world’s problems.

Our Faith and its decision-making process is the vehicle for not only the rational and functional but also the messianic fulfillment of the self-government process on earth. The objective, messianic element is vital.

What the world cries for is some renewed evidence that there really are two actors—God and manon the stage of human history.

Without the objective messianic element, without a global government guided by God, without the assurance of that continuing objective transcendental Source of corrective feedback to the global self-government process, we will not experience fully the fulfillment of God’s past promises, and thus we will lack the motivational framework necessary for world peace to become lasting and universally integrative (i.e., the “‘Most Great Peace’).

In essence, the ‘‘self-government’’ terminology allows us, at last, to link successfully and in a mutually reinforcing way the entire gamut of material, individual, social and superhuman elements that constitute essential parts of the world peace equation.

At last, we need no longer talk about a set of concepts borrowed from and already preempted by fundamentalism, liberal internai “U.S.-is-best”” neoor any other

Using ‘‘self-government’’ terminology sets Baha’is free to make a distinctive, integrative, realistic yet messianic contribution to the way people think, feel and act in relation to world peace. [Page 3]

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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, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, TL 60091.

To the Editor:

Last September, someone wrote to The American Bahá’í about too much emphasis being placed on youth, and not enough on the elderly.

I hope that believer liked the November issue (with its articles on jazz trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie and ‘“‘senior citizens’’ serving as pioneers, among others).

This Faith is for everyone, not just for some. I could say the same about disabled Baha’is. How many times have they been left out of events, forced to sit in a corner while other so-called ‘‘normal’’ Baha’is did their thing?

I must say, however, that the Faith is an improvement over others. In churches, many blind people I know have been treated far worse; I was also in a church and was treated that way.

The same can be said of music. It seems to me that most Baha’is prefer classical and/or jazz; I’ve heard some complaints about friends playing country musicand I know of only two other Baha’is who like what I like. We must attract all kinds of people with all kinds of tastes to make our Faith truly unified and diversified.

Great will be the day when there are no prejudices of any kind in the Faith,

Lori Fabian San Diego, California

To the Editor:

In October, a Mrs. Creager wrote about a problem that has plagued her and me, and which I am sure has affected others too.

I refer to it as a “black hole,” which, as some of you may know, is a large star that has burned out and collapsed until it is so dense that nothing can escape its gravitational field. In other words, things go in but nothing ever comes out. i

The ‘‘black hole”’ effect has occurred with local Assemblies and individual Baha’is; letters go in and nothing comes out.

I have responded to several ads placed in The American Bahá’í that requested information or materials, and sent whatever material I had. More often than not, I received no reply or acknowledgement.

Likewise, Assemblies will start a project or ask for input on an idea, promising to keep contributors informed about progress. Time passes, and there is no response. Much later, one may dis ‘cover via the grapevine what has been happening.

As an Assembly member, I understand how much correspondence Assemblies receive, and how hard it is to schedule and hold regular meetings; however, if a prompt turnaround on correspondence is given a high priority, Assemblies can achieve a higher standard.

Individuals who solicit help for projects should also be prepared to acknowledge receipt of each and every contribution.

If one’s fellow Baha’is feel put off by a lack of response, how do you imagine could-have-been seekers must feel?

Laura Rettig Lincolnia, Virginia

To the Editor:

This letter is written with the hope that it will be read by Baha’ is who have never attended a Baha’i school.

To attend a Baha’i school is to have an experience that is not over at the close of the session.

The things you learn and the friendships you develop will enrich your life in many ways you

won’t know until you’ve gone to a_

school. It’s a time to leave the world behind and relax in a Baha’i atmosphere, a miost rejuvenating experience.

The Baha’i School of Wisconsin, near Brownsville, was started in 1980 and has grown bigger and better ever since.

To bring your children and youth to a school such as this one is of vital importance, especially if they are relatively isolated from large groups of Baha’is and activities with other Baha’i children and youth.

Once they attend, they’ll realize they are not so “alone in the world” and develop a stronger identity and knowledge of what it means to be a Baha’i.

Our grown children have told us that their being taken to Baha’i schools was a very special part of their early spiritual development.

Grace Shahrokh Fond du Lac, Wisconsin

To the Editor:

The letter (December) concerning ‘‘new martyrs,’’ in the opinion of the writer, being created by believers and institutions who have “legalistic, conservative and sometimes fanatical ... applications of laws and principles,”’ deserves a great deal of attention, and I would like to offer another point of view.

While I agree that ‘‘well-meaning and duty-minded but sometimes blundering Baha’is’” can cause those who are less strong to “limit or stop their involvement altogether,”” and can produce “‘unwanted and unnecessary apathy and hurt among Baha’is,”” this is, in my opinion, what happens when we center our attention on our material existence, including other ‘‘living souls,”’ when our gaze should be focused on the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh and the writings of the Central Figures and the Guardian.

On feeling hurt over the years before becoming a Baha’i, I had nowhere to turn except to blame others, my environment, or assume guilt.

My self-image was low and my over-all emotional tone was poor. I couldn’t see things clearly and reacted in all sorts of unrealistic ways.

But when I became a Baha’i and found out who I really am and

how I was to behave, my general attitude improved and I was able to understand that the pain I experienced was for my own benefit to signalize the character deficiencies caused by my latent virtues being undeveloped.

In short, it was not the stressful situations that caused me problems; it was how I was dealing with them.

I found that the Bahd’{ system is ‘‘self-cleansing’’ and works best when one is loyal to its institutions no matter how much he may perceive them to be in error.

And to be a ‘“‘martyr’’ for the Faith in whatever way is offered does not seem so bad a thing when I realize the rewards that martyrs receive.

Looking back, I see that the pain I suffered over the years motivated me to study the Writings to determine its cause and what I should do about it.

It soon became obvious that all these trials and tribulations came from the lower or materialistic nature and attitudes, and that only strengthening our higher nature can satisfy our need for unity in our lives and our community as we relate to other “‘living souls’ who are striving each day to ‘‘face and deal intelligently with reality.””

The Writings on this important topic are too numerous to mention in the brief space allotted for letters. I would urge all readers of the December letter who have been hurt to act promptly in their study before concluding that they are justified in separating themselves from others or from the Faith.

Douglas A, McAdam Greenfield, Massachusetts

To the Editor:

As we reach out to make friends and learn about activities of organizations whose purposes are unity and peace, may I suggest that local Spiritual Assemblies give consideration to official appointments.

Many of us are members of organizations that have goals similar to our own. At present, as members of these groups we may be known as Baha’is or perhaps not.

If appointed by an Assembly as its representative, the Baha’i has official status within these organizations and the Baha’j community can cooperate with them in their programs—as they will in turn cooperate in the Baha’i programs.

In the introduction to Circle of Peace, Anthony Lee quotes “Abdu’l-Bahá as saying, “‘... the Baha’is must associate and become members of these peace societies.” He further quotes Shoghi Effendi: ‘‘We have to assist the different movements which have Progressive ideas and are striving for an aim similar to ours.””

Official appointment of Baha’i representatives to societies with similar purposes makes communication a two-way activity.

Violet Wuerfel Clark Highland Park, Michigan

To the Editor:

Recently there was enclosed in a letter to me from the Baha’i National Center a folder entitled “Unity Through Friendship Teams.”’ It’s a lovely folder, blue in color with English and Persian writing on it.

The folder stirred within me a precious memory of the time when the Zikru’lláh Khadem family left Iran.and settled in Champaign, Ilinois.

The American Baha’ / May 1986 / 3

Of all the many blessings that move brought to our Baha’i community, my most precious is of Javidukht’s calling me and saying, “Edith, I am dying to teach! I will cook the dinner if you will invite the people.””

It was very easy for me to call the people I knew in Champaign and invite them to that gracious home. And after I had invited them once, it was even easier!

As a result of those dinners, we were quite successful in our teaching work in Champaign.

We were a “Friendship Team,” and I think there is no doubt that greater unity was promoted in Champaign through the hospitality of the Khadem family.

Edie Osborn East Ridge, Tennessee

To the Editor:

I was deeply touched by Carol Walborn’s letter (December) about ‘‘spiritually wounded” Baha’is.

In my mind I have written volumes in response to her “cry from the heart.’’ She says that ‘‘in trying to cling to our high standards, we are often legalistic, conservative, and even fanatical. This results in a ‘new martyr’ for our time.””

Unfortunately, what she says is all too often true. We get so tied up in administrative rules and regulations that we sometimes lose the very spirit of our Faith.

The purpose of our lives is to love God and show forth love for all mankind.

“Let the flame of the love of God,’’ says Bahá’u’lláh (Gleanings, p. 325), “burn brightly in your radiant hearts.””

, And, “Abdu’l-Bahá,

ing kindness for all who may cross your path.” (Paris Talks, p. 16) Let us burn these words into our hearts and minds, recite them every day, and live by them. During our recent visit to the U.S., a devoted believer told me she was so preoccupied and harassed by administrative duties and obligations, with committees, etc., that she hardly had time to express love on a personal level. If a Baha’i in her community

was ill, she didn’t have time to visit or sometimes even to call. If one of the friends needed help in any way, she could rarely find the time to be of assistance. I noticed this sort of frenetic activity in many communities. Let us reassess and re-evaluate our lives and daily activities. Let’s cut back our overload of administrative duties and take the time to love, to nurture, to care, to help, to live a life of love and joyful fellowship with the friends. Margaret Ruhe Haifa, Israel

To the Editor:

We are two of the eight American youth who left last September for a ‘Youth Year of Service’’ project in South America.

The project began with three months of training at the Ruhi Institute in Colombia. We were then divided into four teams to work in four countries: Bolivia, Colombia, Panama and Paraguay.

We've had countless experiences and adventures serving the Cause, learning different cultures, more about ourselves, and, most important, about faith in Bahá’u’lláh.

Write to us at C.C. 1602, Asuncién, Paraguay, to find out more about it!

Alex Carlberg Nicole Ewing Asuncién, Paraguay

To the Editor:

On Saturday, February 1, Dr. Robert Henderson, the secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly, visited the Baha’is of Philadelphia, bringing with him a whirlwind of love, a gentle breeze of eloquence, a bright candle of hope, a tender smile of reassurance, a burst of surging energy, and a promise of world peace.

Speaking to an audience of more than 200, Dr. Henderson reassured all that the future of humanity is in good hands because we are all in God’s hands. Although the challenge before us is great, he said, and although the obstacles are many and the level of hope among non-Baha’is is low, ultimate victory and world

See LETTERS page 27

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Order through your local librarian, or send check or money order (including 10% for postage, and handling, minium $1.50) to: Bahai Distribution Service, 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091

[Page 4]4 / The American Baha’i / May 1986

AUNT FLY’S HELPFUL HINTS

By FLY A. WAYHOLM

Are you a victim of ‘burnout’’? Does your lamp of love for mankind go out before evening? Has your will become wishywashy?

How long does your radiant acquiescence radiate for dimming? If you suspect that you have even a few signs of burn-out, now is the time to fight flab and fatigue with this fizziology of fitness—fitness in the Covenant, that is.

All shape-up programs require specific goals and discipline, discipline, discipline. You’ll need to formulate one or two training objectives (in behavioral terms, of course) and commit yourself to training time twice daily.

Morning calisthenics require early rising to tune up your soul. before heading out into the jungle of ‘‘old order’’ conflict and disintegration.

How much tuning up you'll need depends on how “‘out of tune”’ you’ve gotten yourself on preceding days and nights. If you ignored, neglected or forgot soul shape-ups yesterday, don’t expect to breeze through today with ‘‘a lick and a promise.””

Are you ready? Before your feet hit the floor, pause for a few “Allah’u’Abhas”” and thanks to God as you soak up that morning sunlight.

Next, begin your 15- to 20-minute morning workout in Prayer Power. If 15 minutes seems too long, begin with five and gradually increase your tolerance. When it becomes a thirst, you’ll know you're getting in shape.

Prayer Power heavyweights can handle an hour or more with no fatigue. The long Obligatory Prayer provides the perfect aerobic workout since it involves a balanced program of knee squats, shoulder press, upper body extensions and relaxed body stance.

Make sure that your standing position properly aligns the spine and does not throw too much weight on the lower back or knee joints. Now, throw yourself into that communion with God.

The more you involve voice, body, mind and soul, the more effective your workout will be.

Soon you’ll be oblivious to cracking knee joints, knocks on your door, or cries from the next room. As your concentration develops, so will your Prayer Power.

Since Prayer Power is the foundation of your fitness program, steps two and three should be somewhat easier: Will Power and ‘Won't Power.

These two generally go hand-inhand to keep one ‘‘in_ the groove,”’ Covenantally speaking.

For training manuals, you'll need copies of the Synopsis and Codification of the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, the Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, and the Tablets of the Divine Plan. One can hardly embark on a program of fitness in the Covenant without knowing what it is!

All fitness programs require a diet rich in soul-building nutrients. The newly forming spiritual muscles must be strengthened and revitalized with the Word of God—your main weapon against fatigue and lackadaisical indif See AUNT FLY page 28

Ridvan

from page 1

birth. The heroic steadfastness of the Persian friends has been the mainspring of tremendous international attention focused on the Cause, eventually bringing it to the agenda of the General Assembly of the United Nations, and, together with world-wide publicity in all the media, accomplishing its emergence from the obscurity which characterized and sheltered the first period of its life. This dramatic process impelled the Universal House of Justice to address a Statement on Peace to the peoples of the world and arrange for its delivery to heads of state and the generality of the rulers. Paralleling these outstanding events has been a remarkable unfoldment of organic growth in the maturity of the institutions of

responsibility on their part and the devolution upon them of continually greater autonomy have been fostered by the encouragement of ever closer cooperation between the twin arms of the Administrative Order.

This process now takes a large stride forward as the National Spiritual Assemblies and Counselors consult together to formulate, for the first time, the national goals of an international teaching plan. Together they must carry them out; together they must implement the world objectives of the Six Year Plan as they apply in each country.

This significant development is a befitting opening to the fourth epoch of the Formative Age and initiates a process which will undoubtedly characterize that epoch as national communities grow in strength and influence and are able to diffuse within their own countries the spirit of love and social unity which is the hallmark of the Cause of God.

ter include publication of a copiously annotated English translation of the Kitab-iAqdas and related texts, education of the Baha’i world in the law of the Huququ’ll4h, suit of plans for the erection of the remaining buildings on the Arc, and the broadening of the basis of the international relations of the Faith.

The major world objectives of the Plan have already been sent to National Spiritual Assemblies and Continental Boards of Counselors for their mutual consultation and implementation.

Dear friends, as the world passes through its darkest hour before the dawn, the Cause of God, shining ever more brightly, presses forward to that glorious break of day when the Divine Standard will be unfurled and the Nightingale of Paradise warble its melody.

With loving Bahd’{ greetings,

The Universal House of Justice

the Cause. The development of capacity and

The goals to be achieved at the World Cen Ridvan 1986

Epochs

from page 1

may well occur over a period of time.””

The first epoch of the Formative Age (1921-1944/46) ‘was characterized by concentration on the formation of local and national institutions in all five continents,”’ and was ‘‘further marked by the launching, at the instigation of the Guardian, of the first Seven Year Plan (1937-1944) by the American Baha’i community.”

The second epoch (1946-63) “‘was to witness the formulation of a succession of teaching plans designed to facilitate the development of the Faith beyond the confines of the Western Hemisphere and the continent of Europe.

“This epoch was distinguished, in the first instance, by the si multaneous and often spontaneous prosecution of Baha’i national plans in both the East and the West.

“The internal consolidation and the administrative experience gained by the National Assemblies was utilized and mobilized by the Guardian with the launching of the Ten Year World Crusade—a crusade involving the simultaneous prosecution of 12 national plans.”

A second distinguishing feature of this epoch, the Research Department says in its statement, “was the ‘rise’ and ‘steady consolidation’ of the World Center of the Faith.”

The third epoch (1963-86) ‘‘called the Baha’is to a yet more mature level of administrative functioning, consistent with the expected vast increase in the size and diversity of the community, its emergence as a model to mankind, and the extension of the influence of the Faith in the world at large.’”

The period of the third epoch encompassed three world plans, involving all National Spiritual Assemblies, under the direction of the Universal House of Justice:

Computer needed

The National Baha’i Archives needs an IBM or IBMcompatible personal computer but lacks the funds.

If anyone is acquiring a new computer and has a used IBM or IBM-compatible PC which could be donated to the Archives, please write to the National Baha’ Archives, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

the Nine Year Plan (1964-73), the Five Year Plan (1974-79), and the Seven Year Plan (1979-86).

“This third epoch,” says the Research Department, “‘witnessed the emergence of the Faith from obscurity and the initiation of activities designed to foster the social and economic development of communities.’”

The fourth epoch of the Formative Age, whose commencement incides with the beginning of the Six Year Plan, “‘signalizes,’’

the Universal House of Justice said in its letter of January 2, ‘the inauguration of a new stage in the unfoldment of the Administrative Order.

“Our beloved Guardian anticipated a succession of epochs during the Formative Age of the Faith; we have no hesitation in recognizing that this new development in the maturation of Baha’i institutions marks the inception of the fourth epoch of that Age.””

Additional epochs can be anti cipated, the Research Department writes on behalf of the House of Justice, ‘*each marking significant Stages in the evolution of the Administrative Order and culminating in the Golden Age of the Faith.

“The Golden Age, itself, will involve ‘successive epochs’ leading ultimately to the establishment of the Most Great Peace, to the World Baha’i Commonwealth and to the ‘birth and efflorescence of a world civilization.’ ’”

Town

from page 1

June 14-15 and June 21-22 with about 28 meetings on each of those dates. Each is to begin at 9:30 a.m. and end at about 4 p.m. with a lunch break scheduled at noon,

The organization of the meetings is being handled by District Teaching Committees and a number of key local Spiritual Assemblies. The specific meeting date and location for each district will be conveyed to the believers through their local and district bulletins as well as through special mailings.

The Universal House of Justice has extended an invitation to each Baha’ to take part in the establishment of the national goals of the Six Year Plan, and the recommendations from these town meetings will be forwarded to the National Spiritual Assembly for its consideration in devising the national plan.

The National Spiritual Assembly and the Board of Counselors hope that every believer will make a special effort to attend the town meeting in his district and participate fully in its consultation on the Six Year Plan.

Gh

For Baha’i youth

Is there a Bahd’{ College Club at your school? It only takes two Baha’i students to satisfy the requirements to form a College Club at most schools.

Whether you are forming a new club, re-forming an old one, or are the only Baha’i on your campus, please let the National Youth Committee help you establish a Baha’i Club at your college or university.

Contact the Youth office today! Write to us at 1371 Sunset Strip, Sunrise, FL 33313, or phone 305-584-1844. We're ready and waiting to help you teach the Faith at your school!

Ed 2 Fifth and sixth grade children in Indianapolis, Indiana, view a ‘World Peace Is Brotherhood in Action!’ scroll for a special peace project at their school. The children embellished and signed the scroll, which was presented to two representatives from the gover

nor’s office and was to hang in the

state capitol building for one week. The project was inspired by the mother of 11-year-old Helena Niss, a Baha’i student at the school. An article about the Bahá’í-sponsored ‘Children’s Peace Projects Campaign’ appears on Page 9.

Baha’is win forensic competitions

Two young Baha’is from Butte, Montana, recently won high honors in state forensic competitions.

Damen Cott, a junior at Butte High School, won the state championship in the Lincoln-Douglas debate at the Montana AA Forensic and Drama Tournament.

The Lincoln-Douglas debates, in which speakers debate one-onone, deal with moral issues ... whether something is right or wrong, acceptable or unacceptable.

Damen’s championship debate topic was whether the people of

the U.S. have a moral obligation to feed the hungry. Debaters must speak on both sides of an issue.

Scott Hennelley, also a junior at Butte High, placed second in the district National Forensic League Tournament for extemporaneous speaking.

After learning their topic, speakers are given three minutes to prepare a three- to five-minute speech. Scott’s topic in the final round was whether married couples should play “Trivial Pursuit.’” [Page 5]2 summer projects can help youth polish their Spanish-language skills

YOUTH

The Baha’i National Youth Committee is pleased to announce two special opportunities for Baha’i youth this summer.

Both projects are designed to help youth polish their Spanish language skills before volunteering for their Year of Service.

There are many fine service opportunities for youth who are proficient in Spanish, and the “fol lowing projects will help you fine

tune your skills.

Please note that space is limited; interested Baha’is should call the National Youth Committee at once for details and to get their name on the list of applicants. Phone us at the Baha’i National Center, 312-869-9039.

The first project, June 30-July 20, is sponsored by the Baha’ is of

a ‘© AUTOMATIC CONTRIBUTIONS Rate of Growth during Fiscal 1986

by Quarters

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More than 1,200 Baha’is find Automatic Contribution System splendid way to support Fund

a THE FUNDS

Prompted by many requests from the Baha’i community, the National Spiritual Assembly initiated one year ago an electronic bank transfer system.

Today, the Automatic Contribution System (ACS) is a firmly established alternate method of giving.

More than 1,200 individuals have found this system a convenient way in which to contribute to the National Baha’ Fund. The present rate of contributions from the system now exceeds $500,000 annually.

The accompanying graph illustrates the dramatic quarterly rise in contributions through the Automatic Contribution System. They have more than doubled during the past year, rising to

nearly $50,000 each Gregorian month.

Part of the reason for this success is that the ACS is a benefit to both the National Spiritual Assembly and the individual believer. Hundreds of Baha’is are finding the system a convenient way to assure that their obligation to contribute regularly to the National Fund is always met.

The National Assembly, in turn, is provided a steady base of support to help maintain the steadily increasing number of national activities and services.

If you would like to become a part of this growing system, please fill out the authorization form below.

Leaflets explaining the ACS and designed for easy reproduction are available to Baha’ communities for distribution from the Office of the Treasurer, Bahda’{ National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

TheNational Baha’i Fund

. Fesiding at

hereby authorize the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of the United States to charge my checking account each (gregorian) month the fixed amount of

(If your account is with a credit union or money market fund, please provide the address and telephone number of the office servicing your account.)

Attach this form to a check in the amount of your authorization.

Signed: Number of participants: er

Baha’i ID #

Date: Mall’: NATIONAL Baha’i FUND Wilmette, iL

Home phone: 60091

Work phone:

Anthony, New Mexico, who will host six youth (three male, three female) interested in improving their Spanish-speaking skills.

This intensive course will include daily classes and constant immersion in the Spanish language and Latin culture.

Living with a Spanish-speaking family and taking part in the exciting teaching/consolidation work in this rapidly growing area, the youth will have a unique opportunity to serve the Faith while at the same time studying.

Estimated costs for the project are $150 for food and housing.

The second project, to be held just across the border by the Spiritual Assembly of Juarez, Mexico, will combine study of the Spanish language, immersion in the Mexican culture, teaching the Faith, and helping to consolidate a number of new. believers including many youth.

The Juarez project, for five Baha’i youth, will be highlighted by a national youth conference in that city which the projecteers will help coordinate.

Youth who wish to take part in this effort should have proven ability in Spanish.

And remember ... interested youth should contact the National Youth Committee right away for complete details!

Magazine profiles Baha’i musician

A feature article about Christine Keller, a Baha’i from Chicago who is a professional musician, appeared in the Winter 1986 issue of the ‘MOL Newsletter,’’ a publication of Music On-Line, Chicago’s computerized musician referral service.

The article described Ms. Keller’s visit to the International Baha’i Music Conference in San Jose, Costa Rica, explained how the Faith influences her selection of music, and told of her plans to return one day to Costa Rica to teach the Faith to young people and continue her music.

Ms. Keller, a pianist, worked most recently as accompanist for the hit musical comedy ‘‘All You Can Eat (And the Temple of Doom).””

Our Sacred Obligation National Baha’i Fund mette, IL, 60091

(STREET ADORE)

The American Baha’i / May 1986 / 5

Members of the Bahá’í Sunday school class in McKinney, Texas, raised $55 for the National Fund with a recent ‘Seven Year Plan

Show’ presented for the community. The show was followed by a party for the children and their guests.

Symposium helps open doors

to statement in

Efforts by the Baha’is of Moscow, Idaho, to make residents of that community aware of the peace statement by the Universal House of Justice included a public symposium January 18 whose theme was world peace and whose speakers represented the Christian, Jewish, Muslim and Baha’i Faiths.

To prepare for the event, the Spiritual Assembly of Moscow sent letters to all clergymen in the area and enclosed a copy of the peace statement, an invitation to the symposium and a post card to be returned if more information was desired.

As a result, the Assembly was asked to provide a speaker for the Methodist Church’s senior youth class and to take part in an interfaith potluck dinner sponsored by the Moscow Ministerial Association.

On January 14, a copy of the peace statement was presented to

Moscow, Idaho

the mayor of Moscow, and three days later another was given to the president of the University of Idaho.

The symposium, held at the UI Student Union, was well-attended with a dozen Baha’is and at least 28 non-Baha’is present for all or a part of it.

Besides the personal invitations, it had been publicized by posters, newspaper ads and a newspaper article, all of which used an attractive logo adapted by a local Baha’i, Connie Driver.

Following the symposium, letters were sent again to all the clergy and a summary of the day’s events was given to those who could not attend.

Later, the Baha’is were asked by the Unitarian Church to provide a speaker for its April forum entitled ‘Religious Tolerance and the Quest for World Peace.”” Mrs. Florence Mayberry was to represent the Baha’is at that event.

Baha’is in Bloomington, Indiana, have produced these signs for their lawns on the theme of ‘Wage Peace.’ This photograph appeared in the Bloomington Herald-Telephone with an article about the presentation of the peace statement to the mayor. The communi ty was able to have 15 signs made for only $120. The sign holders are $4.50 each, and additional signs are only $7 each. The design is printed in black and white; the Baha’is color the olive branch themselves with green marker pens.

[Page 6]6 / The American Baha’i / May 1986

Difficult goals are won in Turks and Caicos Islands

“The Turks and Caicos Islands? Where are they?”’

Delegates to one of the National Conventions during the early part of the Seven Year Plan were perplexed. They soon learned that this small group of islands below the Bahamas chain were designated ‘‘consolidation goals’ by the Universal House of Justice.

The U.S. National Spiritual Assembly was responsible for opening Middle Caicos and North Caicos islands and forming a Group on Providenciales, as well as for consolidating the Turks and Caicos as a whole.

In years past, much effort had gone into establishing the Faith on Grand Turk, the seat of government, and there had once been a local Spiritual Assembly there.

However, it was difficult to maintain the goal for various reasons. The International Goals Committee advised the National Assembly that it might be better not to expend further energies and money on Grand Turk for awhile.

In its divine wisdom, the House of Justice, instead of withdrawing

the goal of “‘consolidate the Turks and Caicos Islands,” added three new islands (Middle and North Caicos and Providenciales) to the assignment.

The committee rose to the challenge and sent one of its members, Farhang Javid, a successful businessman, to scout the area and draw up a prospectus designed to attract Baha’i businessmen from the U.S.

It was impossible for pioneers to stay there without a reason, and no jobs were available. Mr. Javid bought land in Grand Turk, primarily to start making friends and to establish credibility.

Through these initial efforts, Vahid Hedayati from Texas bought land in Providenciales. Pioneers Sue and Chuck Gomes built structures for residences and a business as employees of Mr. Hedayati.

Nancy and Art Hatley also tried for a year to build a lighting business on ‘‘Provo,’’ as it is called. Canadian friends of Counselor Angus Cowan worked on the buildings for a few months. Every nail and board had to be imported from the States.

Great difficulties were encountered, not the least of which was Chuck Gomes’ painful and crippling arthritis which finally

brought the Gomes family back to the States for treatment.

The pioneers did not teach openly but made friends and lived the life. A couple, Moses and Patti Noah, enrolled. Then Mariano and Leslie Fernandes took the Gomes’ place. For some time these two couples were the only Baha’is in Providenciales, and they formed a Group.

In late 1985, the first Provo native came into the Faith. Almost immediately, Arthur Stubbs attended the winter school in Nassau, Bahamas, and taught in Freeport among his relatives.

When it looked as though the only possibility for opening Middle Caicos was to send a traveling teacher from the islands, Mr. Stubbs went there alone. During the period from March 13-17, 1986, he enrolled an old friend, Garnett Outen, thereby opening the island to the Faith.

Meanwhile, Jackie and Jim Hagan were trying to establish themselves on North Caicos Island. They managed, through many ups and downs, to form and hold a Group there.

At present, Jeanne Watson and her son, Richie, are temporary pioneers helping the Hagans with the teaching work.

Summer projects overseas COUNTRIES LANGUAGES DATES ACTIVITIES Finland Canceled Ireland English 3-31 July Ability to speak at firesides. Musical talent or 2-10 August audio-visual presentations. Some accommodasummer school tions provided. Italy Italian 3 July- To increase zeal and vitality of local youth. English open “ Some accommodations provided. Spain Spanish 3 July- Musical talent helpful. Visit communities to only 2 weeks help consolidate. Some accommodations provided. Germany German 7 June or Starts with deepening seminar. ‘‘Low key’’ Poland Polish 12 July teaching. Must be quiet, well-deepened, mediEnglish at least tative types; reliance on prayer. Accommo2 weeks dations provided. Five German youth will accompany the group to Poland. Guatemala Spanish open Visit believers, children’s classes, youth English 2-week groups. Teaching in small informal areas. Acminimum commodations provided. $100 should cover costs for one month. Grenada English August Participate in the ‘‘Mona’’ teaching project. Accommodations provided. St. Lucia English open Travel teaching with natives or with pioneers 2 weeks to to St. Lucia. Accommodations provi 4 months $5-$10 per day for food. Norway English open Youth from Norway will accompany U.S. Norwegian 2-4 weeks youth. Outgoing nature required for teaching activities. Some accommodations provided. Belgium French 15 August- Teaching includes local radio proclamation German 15 September slide shows, videos, music at firesides, with Dutch 2-week emphasis on personal teaching. AccommodaEnglish minimum tions provided. Switzerland German open Teaching programs being developed. English 1 week To: International Goals Committee Baha’i National Center Wilmette, IL 60091 1 am interested in learning more about the projects in (Country) Name Baha’ I.D. Number Address Telephone (_). ‘Agendi* ko: Sweden and the United Kingdom are eager to receive traveling teachers for summer 1986.

The Baha’i Group of Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, with visiting Baha’is (January 1986). Pictured (left to right) are Louise Mathias, Vahid Hedayati,

Imagine the elation that swept through the Goals Committee office when it was learned that a number of new believers had been enrolled in Provo and a local Spiritual Assembly formed by joint declaration at Naw-Rúz 1986. Not only was a Group formed, but an election for an Assembly at Ridvan was imminent.

Traveling teachers too numerous to mention have been to the islands and lent their support to the work.

Among them were National Assembly member Dr. Alberta Deas, Mara Khavari, Shida Mali, Sue and Ron Towers, Charlotte Lewis, Jene and Bob Bellows, Dr.

Hormoz Bastani, Leslie Fernandes and baby, Herbert Mathias, Mariano Fernandes, Arthur Stubbs, Noah and Patty Moses and daughter.

Ethel Martens from Canada, Karen and Calvin Pritchard, Marvin Hughes, Hormoz Bastani, Shawn and Farhang Javid, Louise and Herbert Mathias, and many others.

Throughout all the years, Ben Levy, assigned to the islands as Auxiliary Board member, worked closely with the International Goals Committee and visited the islands on many occasions, inspiring the friends there.

The goals were not only won by the end of the Seven Year Plan, they were surpassed. It was truly a unified and sacrificial service of many dedicated people to lay at the feet of the Blessed Beauty.

4 rm The Hand of the Cause of God Zikru’lláh Khadem (standing at

left), Auxiliary Board member Thelma Jackson (center, front) and Scott Lee, a former pioneer and Peace Corps member, were among the special guests who

spoke to prospective pioneers at a Pioneer Training Institute held April 3-6 at the Baha’i National Center in Wilmette. Those at the Institute were preparing to pioneer to Japan, Fiji, Mexico, Finland, Africa and Macau.

WLGI introduces new ‘record club’

WLGI-Radio Baha’; invites Baha’is from around the U.S. to join an unusual record club.

The club is different from most record clubs because instead of receiving records from the club, you send them fo the club!

WLGI-Radio Baha’i needs records. We receive some of our music from record companies, but we need much more! It’s a great way to make extra contributions to the Faith, to take part in the activities of WLGI, and to help keep our expenses down.

Here’s how it works. Simply call or write WLGI and let us know how many albums you can contribute (it could be one a

month, one a year, or a one-timeonly contribution).

We'll then get in touch with you and give you the name of an album we need. When we receive the album, we’ll send you an acknowledgement including a receipt for an “‘in-kind”’ contribution.

As an extra incentive, WLGI is holding a ‘“‘Name the Record Club” contest. Send us your suggestions for a name for this crazy record club. If your entry is the one chosen, you'll receive a free WLGI T-shirt and other goodies!

For more information, write to WLGI-Radio Baha’i, Route 2, Box 71A, Hemingway, SC 29554, or phone 803-558-2977. [Page 7]Opportunity calls in Year of Service

The Youth Year of Service program continues to offer to Baha’ youth many exciting and rewarding opportunities for service.

Positions requiring many kinds of skills are open in this country or abroad. The overriding requirement for all positions is a love for Bahá’u’lláh and a desire to serve Him.

These are some of the agencies now seeking the right youth:

The Baha’i National Center has openings with the Persian/American Affairs Committee office, the National Teaching Committee office, and the Office of the Treasurer.

Baha’i Properties—not only office staff, but handy, hard-working youth for painting, carpentry, landscaping, building and maintenance positions of various kinds.

Other domestic opportunities include:

Bosch Baha’i School—teachers, teachers’ aides, kitchen help, building maintenance and grounds crew.

Louhelen Baha’i School—similar to Bosch. Also, an intern is needed for the ‘‘Reflections’’ operation, a mail order business that produces audio tapes, educational materials, shirts, bags, and other Baha’i-related materials and crafts that help fund Louhelen operations.

The Amoz Gibson Project and others on Native American Reservations need deepened youth to help the teaching/consolidation work and to establish social and economic development efforts.

Overseas opportunities are presently available through the National Spiritual Assemblies of the Bahamas, Belize, India and Mexico, the Anis Zunuzi School in Haiti, and various National Assemblies in Africa.

Most of these agencies are seeking youth to help with teaching and deepening work in their countries as well as to help in the development of schools and other social and economic development projects, and, in some cases, to work in National Center offices.

The Youth Committee office has details on all of these projects and more ... one of them is sure to be tailor-made for your skills and experience.

For your Year of Service application form and details about these and other opportunities for sacrifice and service, write to the National Youth Committee, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

‘Youth reporter’ sent

Baha’is at last October’s District Convention for South Alabama/Northwest Florida elected a “youth reporter’? to attend this year’s Baha’i National Convention in Chicago.

The youth reporter was to accompany the district’s elected delegate, attend all sessions that were open to non-delegates, keep a journal, and report back to youth in the district, as the delegate was to report back to adults.

Before the reporter was chosen, pledges were made. to cover expenses so everyone would be eligible, not simply those who could afford to attend the Convention.

The youth reporter was Cynthia Sorenson, an 18-year-old Bahd’{ from Fort Walton Beach, Florida.

vourn

Last month’s youth page included an article about the AKISA project in Santa Ana, California, whose Baha’i community has had a good deal of success in reaching the Cambodian refugees living in that city.

One remarkable story concerns a young Cambodian named Ung See whose family was in the first wave to escape the Khmer Rouge regime in Cambodia in 1979.

The family arrived in Thailand long before international attention and assistance came to bear on the refugee situation.

After a few months, the refugees (between 10-20,000) were herded onto buses and driven to a steep hill along the Thai-Cambodian border. There, the terrified and bewildered refugees were forced down the hill and ordered to return to Cambodia.

Those who objected were shot; those who tried to move up the hill were also shot; the others had no choice but to return to Cambodia. It was later learned that the fields they were forced to cross were heavily mined, and more than half the refugees perished in this nightmare.

Ung See, who is handicapped and unable to walk, became separated from his family. He fell intoa ditch, remaining there until he was found by some friendly villagers who took him to the local Buddhist temple.

Ung See, at the time a young boy, was cared for by the monks for more than five years.

His family, believing that he had been killed in the border crossing, had by that time been

Nebraska Baha’i wins ‘Make It With Wool’ contest in San Diego

Sandy Phillips, a 17-year-old Baha’i from Scottsbluff, Nebraska, was named winner in the 17-21 year old division at the national Make It With Wool competition held recently in San Diego, California.

Miss Phillips, a high school junior, won the top prize for an ensemble consisting of a fulllength black wool coat with grey wool slacks complemented by a yellow sweater with red belt, plaid scarf and black wool hat.

She won a sewing machine and her choice of a trip to New York City or a $1,000 scholarship.

Before taking part in the national competition, Miss Phillips had won state and district Make It With Wool contests.

The daughter of Baha’is Paul and Marilyn Phillips, she is an active member of the Baha’i community who attends youth classes and deepenings and has volunteered to help teach children’s classes.

able to relocate to Thailand and then to the United States.

Many years later, they learned that Ung See had survived and arranged for him to enter the Phant Nikhom refugee camp where he lived for a year while awaiting processing to reunite with his family in the U.S.

It was during his stay in the camp that Ung See learned of the Faith and became a Baha’i, signing his declaration card with the words, ‘‘Today I have changed my heart.””

The youth who work with the AKISA project learned about Ung See through Tim and Diane Schaffter, pioneers to Thailand. They asked the youth to try and locate Ung See so that he could form new Bahd’{ friendships in the States.

Ung See had joined his family in Southern California, and, while he is still the only believer in the family, has become an active member of the Baha’i community there.

Most people raised in the U.S. find it difficult to comprehend the horrendous conditions that have

The American Baha’i / May 1986 / 7

Young Cambodian Baha’i survives nightmare

Ung See (right), a young ‘Cambodian Bahá’í who now lives in San Diego, California, is pictured with

ripped apart so many families, sending them to lives in a new country where they may find it difficult to adjust.

Reaching out the hand of Ba ‘friends at the Phant Nikhom refugee camp before coming to the

ha’i fellowship to these people is one of the most important services a Baha’i community can render. Are there refugees living near you?

Youth Committee calls on all young Baha’is to help launch 6 Year Plan in summer of 786

The recent upsurge in activity among Baha’i youth has galvanized the Baha’i youth movement.

The sense of energy and potential victory is in the air, and with summer just around the calendar, the National Youth Committee is calling on all Baha’i youth to take part in a ‘mighty mobilization of teaching’’ during the summer of ’86 ... the first summer of the Six Year Plan.

The concept of this mobilization stems from the message of the Universal House of Justice addressed to the youth of the world (January 3, 1984).

In that historic statement, the House of Justice spoke of ‘‘the need for a mighty mobilization of teaching activities reflecting regularity in the patterns of service rendered by young Baha’is.””

At this important moment, poised at the beginning of the fourth epoch of the Formative Age of the Faith’s unfolding, the Baha’i youth of the U.S. are called upon to launch the Six Year Plan by mobilizing at least 1,000

786 Grand Canyon conference planned

Plans are under way for the 1986 Grand Canyon Baha’i Conference with an entirely new format designed to address the needs of the diverse peoples and ages they expect to attract.

The dates to mark on your calendar and save are December 26-29. Watch for further details, or write to P.O. Box 9961, Phoenix, AZ 85068, for more information.

Youth Committee treks northward

The National Youth Committee has relocated its office from sunny Florida to the Baha’i National Center. All correspondence should now be sent to the Bahá’í National Youth Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. Attention: Carey Crimmel. As of May 15, telephone calls to the Youth Committee are being accepted at the Bahá’í National Center, 312-869-9039.

summer projecteers to support teaching and service efforts, both at home and abroad.

To help train youth for this initiative, the National Teaching Committee and National Youth Committee have joined forces to set up five regional teacher training institutes to be held in late May and early June.

These institutes will help youth polish their teaching, listening, consultative and even devotional skills.

They will be held May 16-18 at the Green Acre (207-439-0019) and Bosch Baha’i schools (408423-3387); May 30-June 1 at Louhelen (313-653-5033) and the Louis Gregory Institute (803-5585258); and June 6-8 in Kansas (at a site to be determined).

It is hoped that many young Baha’is will be able to take ad vantage of this ‘‘effectiveness’” training before participating in this summer’s excitement.

Complete details on the teacher training programs have been mailed to all Baha’i youth and are also available through the Teaching Committee and Youth Committee offices at the Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312-869-9039).

Information on summer teaching and service efforts is also available from these agencies, and the International Goals Committee has set up an exciting “‘menu’”” of international projects as well. All of the opportunities await only one ingredient ... YOU!

It’s now high time to begin that mighty mobilization in response to the call of the Universal House of Justice to the youth of the world.

Florida youth charter plane, undertake ongoing teaching campaign in Bahamas

How do you become involved with a different culture and lifestyle merely by taking a 45-minute plane ride?

The Baha’i youth of Southeast Florida can answer that question: you charter a 10-seat plane to the Bahamas.

It started when David Kemp, a pre-Baha’i who strongly believes world peace is possible, convinced Duane Omid-Varan, a Baha’i youth from the Houston, Texas, area, to undertake a spontaneous teaching trip to the Bahamas in January.

While there, Duane and David held nightly firesides on peace and the significant role of youth in the peace process.

An article about their efforts appeared in the local newspaper with special mention made of the peace statement. The end result: two youth became Baha’is!

After the trip, Duane and David stopped off in South Florida to visit with youth in the area and en courage them to keep the new spark ignited in the Bahamas.

The following month, the youth of Southeast Florida took the in: itiative. Ricardo Sweeting, a native Bahamian who now lives in Fort Lauderdale, arose to serve the Cause as youth coordinator.

Those who joined him were Tony Mockridge, Lisa Michaels, Jian Gholdestani, Robin Hosick, Jackie Stearns, Robbie Davis, and two non-Baha’is, Rose Mary Martino and Steve Marks.

See BAHAMAS page 22

NEEDED: mature young Baha’i couple to accompany four youth who are planning a teaching project from July 19-August 24 in a university town in Mexico. For more information, contact Carolyn Das, International Goals Committee, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312-869-9039).

[Page 8]8 / The American Baha’i / May 1986

National Center upgrades its communications

EYE ON NATIONAL

Last spring a small group of Baha’i_telecommunications professionals met at the Baha’ National Center to discuss the evolving communication needs of the National Spiritual Assembly and the

American Baha’i community.

As a result of their consultation, recommendations were made and written proposals submitted to the National Assembly for its consideration.

A significant first step was taken last September 1 when the

ACROSS

1. “‘... for it is the mother who rears, nurtures and guides the ———_ of the child.”

4. Cuts; harvests a crop.

9. Opposite of dark.

10. Palm (backward).

11. King of Bashan, conquered by the Israelites (Joshua 12:4). 12. “*... according to the spirit of this age, women must advance ... they must be on the same level as men and enjoy rights.’” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá)

13. “Until womankind reaches the same degree as man ... humanity cannot wing its way to heights of mealies xt 1 Fmments??

15. Hour (abbreviation).

16. ‘‘... Ponder ____ all times in your hearts how ye were created ...’’ (The Hidden Words, No. 68)

17. Bahá’u’lláh has woven the principle of the equality of men and women into the of His social Order.

18. Toe (scrambled).

19. Mountain (abbreviation). 22. A brief, commendatory description appearing on a book cover. 25. Air (scrambled). 27. Con_____ of all parents must be obtained for a Baha’i marriage. 28. Trust (abbreviation). 29. Star (scrambled). 30. Post (scrambled). 31. Yard (abbreviation). 32. “*... this unique entering ... will be an in which the masculine and feminine elements of civilization will be more properly balanced.’’ 33. Opposite of yes.

DOWN 1, Today in the Baha’i world community, women are joining men in building a society. 2. Opposite of wrong. 3. Officer of the Guard (initials).

Puzzle copyright © 1986 by Juliette Whittaker

5. ‘You can kill me as soon as you like but you cannot stop the of women.’”’ (Té hirih)

6. ‘“‘Know ye not why we created you ______ from the same dust?’’ (The Hidden Words, No. 68)

7. Pennsylvania (abbreviation).

8. “The art of music is divine and effective. It is the food of the soul and the __.”” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá)

12. Bet (scrambled). 13. At or near the rear of a vessel. 14. Religion of China founded by Lao-Tse. 15. ‘‘Therefore make ye an effort in order that these children may be rightly trained ... that each one of them may attain perfection in the world of .”’ “Abdu’l-Bahá) 18. ‘‘O ye loving mothers. Know ye that in God’s sight the best of all ways to worship Him is to the children and train them. ...”” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá) 20. ‘‘O Son of Spirit! [____md thee rich, why dost thou bring thyself down to poverty? ...”” (The Hidden Words) 21. ‘Humanity is like a bird with two _____; the one is male, the other female.’’ (‘Abdu’l-Bahá) 22. Bahá’u’lláh is the ProphetFounder of the Faith. 23. Bahá’u’lláh upholds the equality of men and women by requiring the same standard of education for women as for men, and equality of rights in society. 24. “*... Work ye for the guidance of women ... so that mothers may educate their little ones from their earliest days, thoroughly train them, them to have a goodly character and good morals.”’ (‘Abdu’l-Bahá) 26. ‘‘...So0 long as these two wings are not equivalent in strength, the will not fly.’” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá) 30. Page (abbreviation).

Answers to this month’s puzzle are on page 26

National Spiritual Assembly became a subscriber to ITT DIALCOM, an international communications network that transmits information between computers via telephone lines.

“The primary use of the network so far,”’ says Mary Hansen, director of Human Resources at the Baha’i National Center, ‘thas been for electronic mail messaging among Baha’i institutions and agencies, nationally and internationally.

“The use of E-mail has provided a cost savings because of a lessened need for overnight mail carriers, telexes and long distance telephone calls.””

Each user of the network is assigned an identification number which acts as his mailbox. Users can send each other mail by signing on to the network and addressing a message to another’s box, where it is stored.

Personal passwords are given to each user to ensure that mail can be retrieved only by the intended recipient.

Among the present users of the network are the Office of the Secretary, the Baha’i Computer and Telecommunications Committee (in New Mexico), the National Teaching Committee, the National Properties Committee, the Office of External Affairs in New Haven, Connecticut, the National Youth Committee (Florida), radio station WLGI and the Louis Gregory Institute in South Carolina, the Department of Human Resources at the National Center, and the Louhelen and Bosch Baha’i schools.

Other offices and agencies are scheduled to participate in the future.

The Universal House of Justice is an active user of DIALCOM, as are the Baha’i International Community offices in New York City and Geneva, Switzerland, and the National Spiritual Assemblies of Alaska, Canada and the United Kingdom.

In recent public talks in the U.S., two members of the Universal House of Justice expressed their personal opinion that effective use of the network will offer significant savings in communications costs between the World Center and the Baha’i world community.

“Special thanks,’ says Ms. Hansen, ‘‘should go to Roger Coe, chairman of the Baha’i Computer and Telecommunications Committee, who was the prime mover in organizing this project for the U.S.’’

At the National Center, a work station with a microcomputer and phone extension is located in a central area and shared by several offices for the network. The modem and software were purchased from a Baha’i vendor at less than wholesale cost.

The network offers a number of additional features including an

CORRECTION

In the March issue of The American Baha’i (page 7), it is stated that $200,000 was raised for the Bahd’{ Funds during an auction at the Grand Canyon Baha’i Youth Conference in Phoenix, Arizona.

The figure should be $20,000. We regret the error.

electronic bulletin board, a planning calendar, access to news wire services, and use of the Official Airline Guide.

Telex messages can be sent at a much lower cost than with a previously used wire service. PC mail enables a user to prepare a message on his personal computer, store it on a disc and, as was done with materials developed around the peace statement from the Universal House of Justice, upload it on to the network and transmit it to intended recipients.

A tele-conferencing feature de creases the need for traveling by allowing Baha’is to hold group discussions via an on-line computer conferencing system.

Finally, an on-line tutorial program is available to introduce new subscribers to the system’s many features and to train them in the more intricate details of effective usage.

Further developments in the system await the advice of the Management Information System (MIS) Committee, soon to be created by the National Spiritual Assembly.

The Archives has no information as to the identity of the individuals in this photograph, the date or the community in which it was taken. If you can identify any of these

Can you identify anyone in this picture?

Baha’is, please write to the National Bahá’í ‘Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

Things you should know before traveling to dedication of India’s House of Worship

The dedication of the Baha’i House of Worship in India is scheduled for December 23-27.

For those traveling to the dedication, CETA World Travel has been designated as the preferred tour package agent.

CETA has a variety of tour packages including air fare, hotel accommodations, and tours to other points of interest departing from New York and Los Angeles.

For more information, individuals and travel agents may contact CETA at 1-800-235-2382 (outside California) or 1-800-3222382 (in California).

Permission has been granted by the Universal House of Justice for three-day visits to the World Center in Haifa for Baha’is traveling from the Temple dedication in India.

You must inform the World Center that you’ll be visiting, either directly or through the Pilgrimage Office at the Bahd’{ National Center.

Those who are planning extensive tours may wish to include travel teaching in their plans. If so, please contact the International Goals Committee office, Travel Teachers Desk, at the Baha’i National Center.

A current U.S. passport is required for U.S. citizens. For Persians without a current passport, travel documents must be obtained. A green card is necessary to re-enter the country.

A tourist visa for India is required for entry there. The visa can be applied for through the Indian consulates in the U.S.

In addition, visas may be required for other countries through which one is traveling.

For more detailed information, write to INDIA INFOPAK, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

Dr. Danesh to speak during Bosch weekend

Dr. Hossain B. Danesh, secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly of Canada, will present a session entitled ‘‘Marriage of Equals: Creative Use of Love and Power’’ during a Marriage Enrichment weekend May 23-26 at the Bosch Baha’i School.

The weekend will include talks on building and nurturing strong marriages, interracial and intercultural marriages, concerns of Baha’i parents, and marriage at all stages of the life cycle.

Priority will be given to registration of married couples attending together. If space permits, married individuals may attend without a spouse.

There will be a program for children.

To register, send a $15 deposit per person to the registrar, Bosch Bahaé’{ School, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060.

For more information, please call the school, 408-423-3387, or the program director, 805-9331253.

It is not the quantity, but the spiritNational Bahá’í Fund Wilmette, IL 60091

[Page 9]

Family Unity Night (Fun)

FIRST WEEK OF JUNE: Race Unity Day (June 8). Thought for the week; ‘‘... For the accomplishment of unity between the colored and whites will be an assurance of the world’s peace. ...”” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá) Prayer: Bahá’í Prayers, pp. 102-3. Lesson: Read and discuss one or more of the suggested lesson materials: 1. The Hidden Words, No. 68, p. 20; No. 74, pp. 47-48. 2. Gleanings, CXLVI, pp. 315-16. 3. The Promulgation of Universal Peace, pp. 44-46, 425-28 (also in Balytizi, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Pp. 326-29. Activity: 1. Create a special ‘‘Race Unity Day”’ garden in the yard where it can be seen by many people. Plant various flowers or seeds just for Race Unity Day. When people come to visit, show them the flowers. A small area of various flowers can be as lovely as a larger area. 2. If the family likes to bake bread, try Two-Tone Bread. Make a whole wheat dough and white, unbleached flour dough. When it’s time to shape into loaves, take half of each dough, roll each out to a 12x18-inch rectangle, place the whole wheat on top of the white, and roll up tightly into a loaf. Be sure that the two kinds of dough bake at about the same oven temperature and time. Call the result ‘Unity Bread.”” Refreshments: Have the ‘‘Unity Bread’’ above, or an ice-cream cake roll with milk.

SECOND WEEK OF JUNE: The Fund. Thought for the week: ‘... To give and to be generous are attributes of Mine; well is it with him that adorneth himself with My virtues.” (Bahá’u’lláh) Prayer: Bahá’í Prayers, pp. 84-85. Lesson: Read and discuss one or more of the suggested lesson materials: 1. The Hidden Words, No. 82, p. 51. 2. Principles of Bahá’í Administration, pp. 91-95. 3. Vignettes, Nos. 38 and 39, pp. 63-64. Activity: Besides the local and national Baha’i Funds, Baha’is can contribute directly to the Baha’i International Fund or the Continental Baha’i Fund. For this month’s FUN, make a special Fund can or box for either the International or Continental Fund. At the end of the month, send the contributions to one of these addresses: Bahá’{ International Fund, P.O. Box 155, Haifa, Israel 30-000; or Continental Baha’ Fund, 418 Forest Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091. Though contributions to the National Fund can be earmarked for these other Funds, it is nice to receive a receipt from Israel. If the contribution is sent there, find Israel on a map. When the receipt comes, look at the stamps on the envelope. Refreshments: Mom’s choice this week.

THIRD WEEK OF JUNE: Feast of Rahmat (Mercy), June 24. Thought for the week: “Walk ye in the ways of the good pleasure of the Friend, and know that His pleasure is in the pleasure of His creatures. (Bahá’u’lláh) Prayer: Bahá’í Prayers, pp. 75-76. Lesson: Read and discuss one or more of the suggested lesson materials: 1. The Hidden Words, No. 43, p. 37. 2. Bahá’í World Faith, pp. 373-74, ‘Kindness to animals.” 3. Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, No. 138, pp. 158-60. Activity: 1. If there are pets at home, discuss together how they can be treated kindly. Do they have adequate food, water, shelter, exercise and love? If you were an animal, would you like to live at your home? 2. If there are no pets, find pictures of various animals in books or magazines. Discuss how these animals can be treated kindly. Remember, kindness to a domestic animal may be quite different from kindness to a wild animal. Refreshments: Ice cream cones.

FOURTH WEEK OF JUNE: Work as worship. Thought for the week: “... all effort put forth by man from the fullness of his heart is worship, prompted by the highest motives and the will to do service to humanity. ...” (‘Abdu’l-Bah) Prayer: Selections from the Writings of the Bab, p. 193. Lesson: Read and discuss one or more of the suggested lesson materials: 1. The Hidden Words, No. 80, p. 50; No. 81, p. 51. 2. Bahá’í World Faith, p. 195 (12th Glad 8). 3. The Divine Art of Living, pp. 65-67. 4. The Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 187. Activity: Have a family outing to an art museum or craft fair. If this is not possible, try to visit a craft store or local artist. Find out about the many different crafts one can learn, Suggestions: visit a wood or rock sculptor, a collage artist, a wool spinner or weaver, a pottery artist, a candle-maker, or musicians. Refreshments: Fresh fruit Jell-O salad and juice.

Green Acre School sets 20-hour institute

on Islamic history, beliefs and culture

On July 7-11, the Green Acre Baha’i School will offer a 20-hour institute on Islam.

Topics will include the life and times of Muhammad; Sunni and Shi’ih Islam; the Qur’4n and the Hadith; Islamic belief and thought; and modern-day Islam.

The teachers will be John and Linda Walbridge and Afaf Stevens.

“‘Shoghi Effendi referred to Islam as the source and background of the Faith,”’ says Green Acre administrator Dick Grover, ‘and he urged the friends to obtain a sound knowledge of its history and tenets.

“This institute will include lectures as well as independent study,

so people of all levels of knowledge about Islam are welcome.”

John Walbridge has a Ph.D in Islamic philosophy; his wife, Linda, has lived in the Middle East and has written three novels about life in Islamic society.

Afaf Stevens has a B.Sc degree from Baghdad University in Iráq and a M.Ed degree from the University of Massachusetts.

Pre-registration is encouraged. Write to the Green Acre Baha’i School, P.O. Box 17, Eliot, ME 03903.

If you can’t pioneer

deputize!

( ) + EDUCATION

Baha’ children are encouraged to carry out peace projects during 1986, the International Year of Peace.

After a project has been completed, a description of it should be sent to the Bahd’{ National Center.

How do children participate in the Peace Projects Campaign?

Carry out ‘‘peace projects”’ in their local communities and towns that relate to the following topics:

Elimination of racism

Eradication of prejudices of all kinds

Equality of men and women

Promotion of education

Adoption of a world auxiliary language

Establishment of world government

Services that help those in need

• Create illustrations, stories

and/or poems for a book entitled Links for Peace that could be considered for publication. The book, an anthology by Baha’i children on the theme of world peace, could be presented to public officials and agencies.

© After a child or group of children has completed a peace project, a description of the project should be sent to: Children for Peace, Bahd’{ National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

The project description will be read and catalogued. An acknowledgement letter with a gift copy of the quotation by Bahá’u’lláh about world peace addressed to Prof. Edward G. Browne will be sent to the child or group.

Arts to be theme of conference at Green Acre

“Issues and Challenges for Baha’is in the Arts’ is the theme of an arts conference to be held May 30-June 1 at the Green Acre Baha’i School in Eliot, Maine.

Topics to be discussed include expressing the spirit of the Faith in one’s art work; ways in which one’s spiritual life informs one’s art work; contemporary critical and Baha’i issues in the arts; and the role of the artist in community and social development.

Presentations will range from lectures and workshops to visual art showings, slide programs, musical and theatrical performances, master classes, and poetry readings.

The conference is being organized by the Spiritual Assembly of Belchertown, Massachusetts.

For conference information, write to Chris or Sarah Page,

_ Belchertown, MA 01007, or phone 413253-3118.

For registration information, contact the Green Acre Baha’i School, P.O. Box 17, Eliot, ME 03903 (phone 207439-0019).

The American Baha’i / May 1986 / 9

Children are encouraged to carry out peace projects in local communities

Compositions for inclusion in Links for Peace should be sent to the same address.

© Children and teachers are encouraged to invite youngsters from civic or religious organizations in their areas to participate in the Children’s Peace Projects Campaign.

An invitation describing the campaign might be prepared by the children and sent to selected

children’s groups in their area.

The Children’s Peace Projects Campaign emphasizes direct participation by Baha’i children in efforts for peace, and offers opportunities for children and teachers to “reach out” to children’s groups in their areas, such as the Scouts, church schools and public schools, to take part with them in worthwhile peace and service projects.

On February 28, Baha’is in Gladstone, Oregon, held an Ayydm-iHa celebration at the local elementary school, sharing pifiatas with their classmates. Participating teachers and the school principal were given copies of ‘The

Promise of World Peace.’ Bahá’í children’s books were presented to teachers and the school library. Pictured is Baha’i Caryn Green who is being guided to the pifiata by one of the teachers,

Differences that make each of us special are explored in May/June Brilliant Star

Each of us is different, and that makes us special. This important concept is addressed in the May/June issue of Brilliant Star magazine.

The cover, a pastel and gouache on paper by Paula Henderson, depicts a young child diagnosing the illness of her teddy bear.

A woman with a different spiritual vision was Sarah Jane Farmer, and in an article by Anne Gordon Atkinson, her story is beautifully told. Photographs accompany the moving story as it recounts Sarah’s meetings with ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

Children with different physical characteristics are explored in ‘A Special Little Person,” about a dwarf, and ‘‘The Show Must Go On,”’ about a girl in a wheelchair. Both are touching as well as informative; the former is a photo essay, the latter a story.

Another area of difference is mental—not only our capabilities, but our upbringing. In ‘‘Roya,” a story for early readers, the difference between languages is examined, and in ‘‘Wheelbarrow Joe and the Invincible Sword,” the boy tells about his difference—he’s very smart.

The issue is rounded out with a moving poem, ‘Ten Martyred Women of Shiraz,” by Táhirih Khodadoust Foroughi, a science experiment, and a hard dot-todot.

Also, the ‘‘Children’s Peace Crusade,” about which many of you have already heard, is explained and letters from children are shared—letters that have already been forwarded to President

Reagan.

A lovely song written by Susan Engle and Michael Moutrie and transcribed by Mimi McClellan is included.

The “‘parents’ page”’ focuses on career selections and how parents can help give their child choices and opportunities to explore different areas.

If you aren’t yet a subscriber to Brilliant Star, please consider doing so. Your subscription helps support the National Fund, as the National Spiritual Assembly has to subsidize the magazine until more subscribers are enlisted.

Children are our most important investment in the future. Help them connect with other children. Help them learn the history, past and present, of their Faith. Help them enjoy being a Baha’i.

A one-year subscription is only $12; two years, only $23. To subscribe, send your name, address and check to Brilliant Star, Suburban Office Park, 5010 Austin Road, Hixson, TN 37343.

Washington West sets summer school

The Washington West Baha’i Summer School will be held August 10-15 at Seabeck.

The theme is ‘‘Emergence from Obscurity (The Baha’i Experience).””

Full accommodations for 250 include facilities for tennis, basketball, boating, swimming, volleyball, etc.

Pre-register by June 19 by contacting Harry Taylor Sr.,

__ Arlington, WA 98223, or by phoning 206-435-8245. [Page 10]10 / The American Baha’i / May 1986

TEACHING BRIEFS

&

Portland, Maine—A press conference was organized by the District Teaching Committee and the District Media Rep in which excerpts from the peace statement were read. The conference was broadcast on the local television evening news i

Niles, Illinois, recently presented the peace statement to the mayor and city board and helped the Baha’i communities of Chicago and Skokie with a presentation to U.S. Congressman Frank Annunzio. The Spiritual Assembly of Niles has also initiated a Children’s Crusade for Peace. ...

Salt Lake City, Utah—The Baha’is of Utah, confronted with a vast area where the Baha’i population was either small or non-existent, came up with a novel idea to help remedy the situation.

The District Teaching Committee appointed a peace task force which coordinated a relay-style 400-mile ‘‘Walk for World Peace”’ over a 17-day period in February. Peace statements were presented to mayors, city councilmen, county commissioners and others in towns along the route, culminating with presentations in Salt Lake City to the lieutenant governor, the president of the state Senate and another state senator.

As a result, a tremendous amount of media coverage has been generated and has united and invigorated the Baha’ community of Utah. To date, the peace statement has been presented to about 70 per cent of Utah’s state senators and representatives. ...

Wenatchee, Washington—150 or more people attended a Forum for Peace at Wenatchee’s Civic Auditorium on March 15 at which six prominent local citizens spoke on various topics related to building a more peaceful world.

Afterward, presentation copies of the peace statement were given to the speakers, and the audience was invited to pick up distribution copies. ...

Cobb County, Georgia—The visit in February of a traveling teacher led to an upsurge in teaching activities whose results to date have included 97 new believers, seven jeopardized Assemblies saved, one new Assembly formed, 18 local believers trained in direct teaching methods, and scores of Baha’ is inspired and motivated by attending one of several meetings at which their visitor spoke about direct teaching.

Conferencia de Juventud 5 y 6 de julio

Los jévenes baha’is de Ciudad Juarez, México, les invitan a su proxima Conferencia Nacional de Juventud que sera los dias 5 y 6 de julio de 1986 en la bella frontera de ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, al frente de El Paso, Texas.

Se extiende la invitacién a todos nuestros amigos Americanos. La conferencia va a estar en Espafiol.

Informacién: Sra. Ingrid de Cardefia, secretaria,

El Paso, TX 79996.

‘A practical measure of devotion

National Bahá’í Fund Wilmetie, IL, 60091

TEACHING

The National Teaching Committee has a goal of establishing 95 ongoing teaching projects in the U.S. To date, we know of some 15 projects (see list).

Another goal is to have at least 1,000 youth involved in these projects. Periodically, we’ll be publishing an updated list of projects.

For more information about any of them, or to volunteer to help with one of the projects, please contact the National Teaching Committee office, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312-869-9039).

Alabama

Name: Project Mona. Location: Florence, Lawrence County, Madison County, Triana. Dates: September through next Ridvan. Sponsor: Northern Alabama District Teaching Committee. Contact: Florence, Piruz and Irandokht Anvar, 205-764-5168; Lawrence County, Ken and Cathy Baugher, 205-353-4028; Madison County, Ahmad Hosseini, 205772-8758; Triana, Randy Robinson, 205-881-9750 (room 337).

Service: To raise Assemblies in the aforementioned places. Arizona

Name: Project Ratil Pavén. Location: Phoenix. Dates: Ongoit Contact: Martinez, 602-936-8114, or Chandler, 602-899-1469.

Service: Consolidation and teaching.

Update: Meeting every other weekend on east and west sides of town.

California Name: AKISA. Location: Santa Ana.

E. Texas campaign aims to answer

Indians’ cry for help

In August 1985, the District Teaching Committee of East Texas No. 2 began a special teaching campaign named ‘‘Yellow Rose.””

It had three basic goals: (1) to regain the lost Spiritual Assembly of Livingston; (2) to rekindle awareness within the district of the need to teach Native Americans; and (3) to bring about the election of the first Native American local Spiritual Assembly in Texas.

In carrying forward the campaign, the Baha’is found that they were responding to a cry for help from the Alabama-Coushatta Indian tribe who live in the heart of the Big Thicket in East Texas.

The cry was simple and direct: “Help us save our youth’? from drugs and other immoral behavior.

The plan is to answer this cry for help, and to do this, the District Teaching Committee is inviting both Native American Baha’i youth and non-Indian youth to visit the district between August 8-24 to take part in the second Yellow Rose teaching campaign.

For information about how you can become a part of this exciting effort, please contact Andre’nea M. King,

- - Orange, TX 77630, or phone 409-886-4853 or 713-471-5365.

Sponsor: Spiritual Assembly of Santa Ana.

Service: To strengthen friendships with local Cambodians, thereby teaching the Faith.

California

Name: Ken Turner Project. Location: Washington J.D. (West Sacramento). Dates: March 22-23. Sponsor: California Central District Teaching Committee No. 1. Contact: Shahin Hardwick, P.O.

Box 41251, Sacramento, CA 95841. Service: Reactive the Assembly. California

Name: Red Bluff Project. Location: Red Bluff J.D. Dates: April 5-6. Sponsor: California Central District Teaching Committee No. 1. Contact: Shahin Hardwick (see above). Service: Save a jeopardized Assembly.

Massachusetts

Name: Being of Service: The Lowell Project. Location: Lowell. Dates: May 26-September 1. Sponsor: Spiritual Assembly of Lowell. Contact: Lorraine Matthews, P.O. Box 2197, Highland Station, MA 01851 (617-4591604). Service: Teaching and Consolidation. Update: Outreach projects. Mexico

Name: Spanish Language Institute. Location: Juarez. Dates: early June to mid-July. Sponsor: Spiritual Assembly of Juarez. Cost: $75/youth. Service: To increase knowledge of Spanish; teach and deepen youth; help plan National Youth Conference in Juarez.

New Mexico/Texas

Name: Spanish Language Training Institute. Location: Anthony, Texas, and Juarez, Mexico. Dates: June 30-July 20. Sponsor: District Teaching Committee of Southern New Mexico; Baha’i Group of Anthony, Texas. Contact: Rob and Sylvia Gibietz, General Delivery, Anthony, NM 88021 (915-886-2524). Cost: $150/youth. Service: Deepening new youth in the area and teaching among Spanish-speaking peoples.

Name: Project Lua. Location: New Fane. Dates: Ongoing. Contact: Jeanne Delaney, 716-8255457. Service: Teaching. Update: First Assembly formed; taught over-all population; many people interested.

North Carolina

Name: Carolina Victory Train. Location: North Carolina. Dates: Ongoing. Sponsor: District Teaching Committee of North Carolina. Contact: Sam Williams, 919-679-2623. Service: Teaching and consolidation. Update: Winston-Salem is the only one continuing since June. Several declarations have taken place.

Pennsylvania

Name: West Chester Project. Location: West Chester. Dates: July 1-31. Sponsor: District Youth Committee of Pennsylvania. Contact: Kathie and Peter Schawack

a, _ West Chester, PA 19382, 215-696-3018. Cost: $5-$10; scholarships available. Servi Re-establish As semblies in West Chester, West Goshen. Texas

Name: Great Texas Service Project. Location: Texas. Contact: Shervin Hawley, P.O. Box 721466, Houston, TX 77272. Service: Unify activity among Texas Baha’i youth; generate understanding of Baha’i Faith among Texans; serve the state. Texas

Name: Yellow Rose. Location:

Teaching Committee sets ambitious U.S. goals

East Texas. Dates: August 8-24. Sponsor: East Texas District Teaching Committee No. 2. Contact: Andre’nea M. King, 409-8864853. Service: Inviting Native American Baha’i youth from across the country to reach Native American and black youth.

Virginia/D.C.

Name: Olinga Teaching Project. Location: Falls Church, Virginia. Dates: Ongoing. Sponsor: Spiritual Assembly of Alexandria. Contact: Jamshid Amini, 703820-0610. Service: Teaching and consolidation. Update: There have been 12 declarations so far and many friends have been made for the Faith.

Washington Name: Pasco Project and Valley Project. Location: Pasco, Wapato, Toppenish, Grainger, Sunnyside. Dates: July 17-27. Sponsor: District Teaching Committee of Northern Idaho and Eastern Washington. Contact: Pasco, Steve and Jeni Godfrey, Richland, WA 99352, 509-943-2416. Service: Teaching and consolidation. Update: Depending on number of participants, project starts in Pasco, then moves to the valley.

On February 7, Bahá’ís in Utah began a 400-mile ‘Walk for World Peace’ which ended more than two weeks later at the state capitol in Salt Lake City where ‘The Promise of World Peace’ was presented to Lt. Gov. Val Oveson; Arnold Christensen, president of the State Senate; and state Sen. Terry Williams who was instrumental in the

WALKING FOR WORLD

resolution condemning the persecution of Baha’is in Iran. From five to as many as 90 people participated in any given day of the walk. The Baha’is walked in relays accompanied by a motor home which carried two banners reading ‘Bahá’í Faith—Walking for World Peace.”

Teaching Committee updates, revises guidelines

The National Teaching Committee has updated and revised its teaching project guidelines. These guidelines will help a community to prepare for a teaching project whether it involves direct teaching, indirect teaching, or is service-oriented. The guidelines will be a valuable aid in planning and carrying out teaching projects. They are available through the National Teaching Committee office.

Included are sections on project planning, securing resources needed for the project, implementation of plans, monitoring and reporting progress, and project evaluation. To order a copy of the guidelines, simply complete and return the order form below.

Name: Address: City/State/Zip: Telephone:

Teaching Project Guidelines

Order Form

Please send ___copy(ies) of the Teaching Project Guidelines to: Please enclose a check for $2.00 per copy payable to "Baha’i Services Fund” and send to the National Teaching Committee, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, Ilinois 60091

[Page 11]Baha’i Audio-Visual Centre sponsors radio production workshop at WLGI in S. Carolina

WLGI-Radio Baha’i in Hemingway, South Carolina, was the site of a radio production workshop held the last weekend in January.

The workshop was for staff and volunteers at WLGI and for interested persons from throughout South Carolina, but participants came from as far away as Washington, D.C.

The event was sponsored by the International Baha’i Audio-Visual Centre (IBA VC), an agency of the Universal House of Justice with headquarters in Toronto, Canada.

Workshop leaders were Alex Frame and Michael Snook, members of the IBAVC Executive Committee.

Mr. Frame is senior producer for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation’s television station in Toronto; Mr. Snook is the director of the CBC radio station in Regina, Saskatchewan.

The sessions focused on the immediate programming needs of WLGI. Priority was given to ideas for programming that can be easily incorporated into the station’s present format.

Participants were led through basic information about radio programming, about the philosophy of WLGI, and about program types that are easy to produce.

Because WLGI’s programming is still dominated by music, the in

N. Broward County, Florida, wins praise for successful ‘Baha’i Service Club’

In March 1985, responding to the call by the Universal House of Justice for social and economic development activities, the Spiritual Assembly of North Broward County, Florida, combined forces with Baha’is in several nearby communities to sponsor a ‘‘Baha’i Service Club.””

Now entering its second year, the club has been engaged in a number of highly successful service activities and was awarded a certificate of merit for its efforts by the county Health and Rehabilitative Services.

In cooperation with that group, the club has organized and maintains a “‘clothes closet’’ for children and youth and a playroom for children.

The Baha’is have planted trees on the Seminole Indian Reservation with members of the Baha’i Youth Club and the Baha’i community of Jupiter, and were responsible for bringing the ‘‘New Horizons’’ singing group to Half Way House in Fort Lauderdale to perform for its residents.

Presently, club members are providing personnel three or four times a week to help register patients at the Children’s Medical Services Clinics, checking information and readying files for the doctors.

This is especially helpful because so many community services have been cut due to budget restraints.

Club members also serve as volunteers at a food bank, sorting contributions from chain stores.

Portugal requests names of believers

The National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of Portugal has recently written to the U.S. National Spiritual Assembly to ask for the addresses of Baha’is of Portuguese background so that they may share messages with them and send them copies of their Bahd’/ News.

If you are a Baha’ of Portuguese descent and would like to receive information from Portugal, please send your name and address to the National Teaching Committee’s Minority Development Coordinator so that we can forward these names and addresses to the National Spiritual Assembly of Portugal.

After separating the vegetables, fruits, paper goods, cereals, soups, and other items, they prepare ‘‘family packs’? and send them to distribution centers from which organizations may obtain them for the needy.

The Service Club and local Baha’i community also donated 23 five-pound canned hams to the distribution centers, one of which went to St. Herman House, a resident home for nine mentally retarded males.

Besides food, the club has collected furniture, clothing, linens, blankets, a heater and other items. for residents of the home.

And on January 4, nine Baha’i youth and two adults cleaned, scraped, puttied, caulked and painted the house.

Since the club began its work, it has come into contact with many people and organizations, all of whom have praised the Baha’is for their efforts on behalf of others.

Club members come from Broward, Dade and Palm Beach counties.

SAN JOSE GIVES RIGHTS AWARDS

On January 25, the Baha’i community of San Jose, California, held its fifth annual Human Rights Awards dinner before an overflow audience at Santa Clara University’s Benson Center.

The keynote address was given by Dr. William Maxwell, an educator and member of the National Spiritual Assembly.

Awards were presented to:

© Bill Ramos, director of ‘‘Si Se Puedes,’’ an organization devoted to helping Mexican-American youth cope with the problems of a large urban American society.

¢ Radio/TV station KQED, which through its programming has contributed much to human understanding in the Bay area.

© “Beyond War,’’ which has worked nationally and internationally to promote world peace and the elimination of nuclear weapons as instruments of war.

© Harry Rathbun, the 92-yearold “father” of ‘Creative Initiative,”” which has now evolved into ‘‘Beyond War.””

If you are traveling outside the United States for any reason, please contact the International Goals Committee for information.

formation programs must be brief

“and appealing. Both workshop

leaders encouraged the use of “texturing,’’ or adding short spots and brief programs that are designed to enrich existing programming.

Participants offered such ideas as short interviews with local Baha’is, announcements about students who have achieved excellence at local schools, presenting recipes or jokes submitted by listeners, and saluting individual Baha’is and the communities in which they live.

Everyone was given an opportunity to produce sample programs. The group then listened to and critiqued each program.

Laura Schell of Kingstree, South Carolina, said she had wanted to help WLGI for a long time.

“Now I have something I can do for Radio Baha’i,”’ she said. “It’s not hard to do, and I like it tool’?

Shirlene Brown, a WLGI announcer, said she was pleased that “these are practical ideas I can put to use right away. They don’t take a lot of extra work to produce. I want to start doing it tomorrow!”’

WLGI ‘‘doesn’t have the staff or funds to undertake major new programming,’’ said Mark St. Clair, who produces the station’s Baha’i programming.

“The ideas that Alex and Michael shared were practical, directly suited to our needs, and can easily be implemented right away.

“This is the most valuable kind of help we could receive. We’re very grateful to IBAVC for providing this wonderful service to us.”

The American Baha’i / May 1986 / 11

As part of a radio production workshop held in January at WLGI-Radio Bahá’í in Hemingway, South Carolina, staff mem Laura Schell (right) of Kingstree, South Carolina, ‘interviews’ Roxanne Erickson in the production studios of WLGI-Radio Bahá’í

atts, i ber Mark St. Clair demonstrates the use of station equipment to workshop participant Ouida Coley of Washington, D.C.

Ms during a radio production workshop held at the station in January.

Kansas college offers Baha’i-oriented program

at a = =SOC/ECONOMIC

=

An innovative new program based on Baha’i principles is now offered at Southwestern College in Winfield, Kansas.

The New Horizons Project, as the program is called, is directed by Dr. Rick Johnson, who is a Baha’i.

The program, he says, seeks to use the reality of an emerging “‘new age’’ as an integrative center for a student’s college programa core concern that can give meaning and direction to the student’s over-all program of study.

The New Horizons approach creates an individualized study program for each student to reflect his personal learning goals.

Students, in consultation with a core faculty member, choose an integrative theme for their studies that “‘ties together’’ all of their courses in a mutually supportive framework.

Too often, says Dr. Johnson, “education is fragmented into a million pieces—a multitude of courses which exist in isolation with little or no attempt to relate them to one another in a meaningful way.””

New Horizons tries to help students ‘‘put the pieces together”? in a way that makes sense for them and their goals in life.

Also important in the New Horizons approach is the idea that personal and educational development require both intellectual and spiritual growth.

Equal significance is given in New Horizons, says Dr. Johnson, to ‘‘scientific/analytic’” and to “‘spiritual’’ ways of knowing reality. The goal of the program is “wholesight,”’ a vision of the world in which mind and spirit unite.

“The way in which we see shapes our attitudes, values and behavior,”’ says Dr. Johnson. ‘‘So only if we see the whole can we be whole as persons.”

Thus, New Horizons encourages students to explore ultimate values and spiritual reality as an integral part of the program.

The program also encourages a respect for human diversity that honors the variety of expression in spiritual search and tradition.

Although based on Baha’ pri ciples, it is not limited to, or intended only for, Baha’is.

In fact, says Dr. Johnson, the goal is a “unity in diversity” that brings together students from a variety of religious traditions in a common endeavor.

Study components are intended to provide the necessary support and resources to encourage the “independent. investigation of truth.””

This is achieved through an ongoing process of consultation in

volving the student and faculty members who work directly with him,

“Students learn with faculty members,” says Dr. Johnson, “rather than simply being instructed by them.’”

Those who are interested in obtaining more information about the program may write to Dr. Rick Johnson, director, The New Horizons Project, Southwestern College, Winfield, KS 67156, or phone 316-221-4150 (office) or 316-221-0513 (residence).

Task Force named

Five persons active in Hispanic teaching have been appointed to an Hispanic Teaching Task Force of the National Teaching Committee.

The purpose of the task force is to identify ways to initiate or intensify teaching among Hispanic people so that an active Hispanic membership in the American Baha’i community can be built.

The task force members are Estelle Hermasillo of Connecticut, Manuel Marcial of Florida, Sergio Montenegro of California, Don Roupé of Illinois, and Judith Spychalski of Arizona.

Those who are interested in helping with this important teaching effort are urged to contact the task force through the National Teaching Committee office, 312869-9039. It is not necessary to speak Spanish to help with this teaching effort. Pf

[Page 12]12 / The American Baha’i / May 1986

Baha’i schools: lovely environment, memories

| EDUCATION

The Baha’i Schools network, ready for another slate of summer sessions, offers something rarely found in society today—spiritual renewal and regeneration.

“The Baha’ school is a special institution,”’ says Blanche Grant, Baha’i schools coordinator for the National Teaching Committee. “Tt offers immersion in a Baha’i atmosphere—something you can’t get anywhere else.

“It’s a place where you can forget the stresses of the world,”’ she notes, ‘‘and associate with your fellow-believers in a loving and supportive environment.

“The schools are an ideal place to absorb the spirit and teachings of the Faith and to practice Baha’i service. Next to pilgrimage, nothing quite approximates the Baha’i school experience.’”

Taking a child to a Baha’i school, says Ms. Grant, ‘‘is one of the greatest gifts Baha’i parents can give their children.

“The schools are powerful transmitters of Baha’i identity and knowledge, and impart memories that last a lifetime.”

The Baha’i Scnools network, which comprises 46 schools, includes the three national schools—Green Acre, Bosch and Louhelen—two institutes, Louis Gregory and the Native American Baha’i Institute, the Wilhelm Institute in New Jersey and 40 regional schools that operate out of rented facilities.

The network offers a wide variety of services, formats and courses designed to meet the di Naw-Rúz from page 1

Indeed, the primacy invested in your community by the beloved Master remains intact.

Ina sense, the imminent launching of the Six Year Plan, with all the special features it will entail, i a salute to your immortal triumphs as “‘spiritual descendants of the Dawn-breakers’” and a fresh reminder that you possess the vast, largely unrealized potential of a community blessed by Bahá’u’lláh with a unique destiny in the unfoldment of His mighty World Order.

We appeal, therefore, to each and every one of you, whether or not you occupy any position in the Baha’i administration, to respond wholeheartedly to the call of your National Spiritual Assembly to assist in meeting the goals to be set.

As the beloved Guardian repeatedly stated in his letters to the American believers, it is the individual who has the power to act, and on whom ‘‘in the last resort, depends the fate of the entire community.”’ Onward, then, with your inescapable but glorious tasks!

Our prayers will be offered at the Holy Threshold for your guidance and the further success of your mighty endeavors.

With loving Baha’i greetings,

The Universal House of Justice

Naw-Rúz 1986

verse needs of the American Baha’i community.

Facilities range from camps to retreat centers to universities and to Baha’i-owned properties specially designed for Baha’i school sessions.

Formats vary from one-day events to weekend conferences’ and week-long sessions. The courses cover a wide range of

topics and vary in depth and intensity.

“This year, for the first time,” says Ms. Grant, “‘the friends have the advantage of receiving, in the April issue of The American Baha’i, the schedules of the three national schools and many of the regional schools.

“This is a coordinated effort on the part of the schools to make

available as widely as possible information that will enable the friends to choose the school that best fits their needs and interests.””

Those who need financial help may ask their local Spiritual Assembly and the school of their choice for assistance. Some schools have modest scholarships and some have work/study pro grams that can reduce costs.

While the regional schools are entirely self-supporting, the national schools and institutes are subsidized by the National Fund, which covers about 40 per cent of the cost of attending.

Addresses and dates of school sessions are listed in the special Schools Insert in the April issue of The American Baha’i.

News briefs

College youth active on

Twenty-four Baha’i college and high school students from Washington state and Oregon used their spring break this year to carry out a service project at Lapwai, Idaho, headquarters of the Nez Perce Indian tribe.

At the invitation of the Baha’ Group of Lapwai, the students spent a week washing windows, cleaning streets and a park, and painting the Pi Nee Waus community building—the recreation hall and meeting place of the Nez Perce Indians.

They also excavated and installed forms in the city park for pouring of a concrete pad for a sheltered picnic spot.

When the task was completed, the town said goodbye with a picnic in the park and certificates of appreciation for each of the students.

.

The eight adult members of the Baha’i community of Speedway, Indiana, collected enough money this year to buy and mail to each of the 6,500 households in Speedway the pamphlet, “‘Peace—More Than an End to War.”

As another aspect of its ‘‘Peace Pamphlet Project,’’ the community’s presently jeopardized Assembly sent a delegation to meet with the Speedway town board, all of whose members were given copies of the book Selections from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh and the peace statement from the Universal House of Justice.

°

An article about the Louhelen Baha’i School and its plans to begin a Residential College in the fall of 1986 appeared with three photographs February 27 in the Davison (Michigan) Flagstaff.

The article was solicited by the paper’s editor who had written a feature article about the school some three years ago and wished to give readers an update.

.

Richard Jamie Deason, an 11-year-old Baha’i from Lyman, South Carolina, recently won the “Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Excellence in Composition’’ for a paper he submitted in a writing contest in Spartanburg School District No. 5.

Jamie’s paper, on the theme “‘If I Were King of the World ...,”” dealt with world peace and the elimination of prejudice.

Jamie, his parents, James and Linda, and sister Juliann form the Baha’i Group of Lyman, and he is the only Bahd’{ at Lyman Ele Cub Scouts, and his interest in drawing won him a first place award for a sketch of an eagle that was published in The Greenville News.

°

On March 20, Baha’is in Maryland’s Eighth Congressional District presented a copy of “The Promise of World Peace’’ and a certificate of appreciation to U.S. Rep. Michael D. Barnes, a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

The presentation was made at Rep. Barnes’ office in Washington.

As a member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, the congressman has taken part in hearings on the persecution of Baha’is in Iran and was instrumental in sponsoring House resolutions condemning their persecution.

.

The Baha’i community of Butte-Silver Bow, Montana, was invited to take part in this year’s community Prayer Breakfast, sponsored by the Butte-Silver Bow city-county government.

George Galinkin, chairman of the Spiritual Assembly, was asked to give the benediction and chose a prayer by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

.

The Educational Foundation for Foreign Study is looking for interested persons to volunteer as area representatives to help find host families for high school students from Europe, Mexico and

Reservation

Colombia.

Volunteers are not asked to house youth themselves but to find other families to do so. The length of stay is 10 months.

This is an excellent opportunity for Baha’is to carry out a social and economic project that is neither political nor religious and improves the international cultural image of the Faith.

It costs nothing, and the Foundation helps with expenses. If you are interested, phone John McGimsey, Taos, New Mexico (505758-3338) or the Educational Foundation, Area Representative Recruitment (1-800-44-SHARE) and tell them John sent you.

.

Michael (Mike) Michalchik, chairman of the Spiritual Assembly of Los Altos, California, and an industry consultant on optical memories, has been elected a member of the New York Academy of Science.

Mr. Michalchik has also been chosen for inclusion in ‘‘Who’s Who in Technology”’ for his many inventions and patents in image reproduction, microstructured elements, and electrostatic photo conductors.

The Baha’is of Flagstaff, Arizona, celebrated Naw-Riz with their annual potluck dinner and auction for the Fund.

Adults and children donated items that were then auctioned, resulting in a contribution of $192 for the National Fund.

RACE UNITY

Baha’is consult at Gregory Institute on process of unity

On February 7-9, the National Race Unity Committee, in cooperation with the Louis Gregory Baha’i Institute in Hemingway, South Carolina, held a race unity conference on the elimination of prejudice through the “‘process of unity.””

About 60 Baha’is took part in the consultation including representatives of four of the five racial categories identified by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá (black, white, brown, red) from the Southeastern U.S.

Among those attending were Auxiliary Board members Elizabeth Martin and William Tucker; Jaci Delahunt, a member of the American Indian Teaching Committee and National Teaching Committee staff; Ferris Paisano, a member of the American Indian Teaching Committee; and Helen and Jeff Kiely, co-directors of the Native American Baha’i Institute.

Also participating in a part of the conference were members of the National Social and Economic Development Committee who were meeting that weekend in Hemingway.

Almost everyone agreed that consultation on ‘‘the process of unity’’ had brought them to a new plateau in approaching and understanding this sensitive topic.

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[Page 13]The American Baha’i / May 1986 / 13

egates, respectively.

The lines on this map, many of which coincide with the borders of states, represent the 168 electoral units approved for 1986-87 by the National Spiritual Assembly. Each unit will have its own Convention in October and elect its own delegate to the National Convention. The only exceptions are New York City and Los Angeles, which will elect two and three del

National Assembly approves 168 electoral units in U.S.

The National Spiritual Assembly has approved the establishment of 168 electoral units for electing delegates to next year’s National Convention.

The new units, shown on the map accompanying this article, will be publicized in greater detail in the coming months.

They were developed in response to a letter of July 21, 1985, from the Universal House of Justice which states in part:

“*...a National Spiritual Assembly should divide the territory under its jurisdiction into electoral units, based on the number of adult Baha’ is in each area, in such a way that each unit will be re

Planning Teams

to be appointed

To organize the District Conventions this year, several Assemblies in each of the new electoral units are being sent letters asking them to appoint a representative to serve on a Convention Planning Team.

In units that contain only one city, however, the single Assembly for that city will be asked to appoint a team to do the planning.

In those electoral units in which several functioning Assemblies do not exist, individuals will also be asked to help with Convention planning.

The planning teams will be given greater flexibility this year to suit their Convention to the needs of their electoral unit. Eachteam will be given new Convention planning materials to help them carry out their task.

sponsible for electing preferably one delegate only.’’

The letter goes on to say:

“*... Although one (delegate) for each unit is preferable, this may not be practicable in certain instances, such as in a unit which contains one or more very large local communities. In such cases it may be necessary to make the unit large enough to be the electoral base for two or possibly three delegates.””

Rather than creating a completely new electoral structure, the National Assembly has formed new units based on the existing districts.

Those districts which elected only one delegate last year remain generally unchanged. However, the 36 districts in which more than one delegate was elected were divided into smaller electoral units—one unit for each delegate to be elected by the district.

In some cases this division has meant that a single city with a large Bahd’{ population has become its own electoral unit.

Each of the 168 electoral units will have its own Convention in October and will elect its own delegate to the National Convention.

The only exceptions are New York City and Los Angeles, who will elect two and three delegates, respectively.

The other 166 units will elect one delegate each for a total of 171, which is the number of delegates assigned to the U.S. by the Universal House of Justice.

Although it will take some time to become ‘accustomed to the change, the National Assembly is confident that many benefits will result from it.

Among the benefits is that the delegates will be elected from a greater range of localities, creating a more diverse representation of the community to elect the National Spiritual Assembly.

It will no longer be possible to have several delegates from the same area of a given district. Instead, different areas of the former district will be represented.

In addition, because the Conventions will be smaller, the friends will be able to participate in them in a more meaningful way and will be able to identify more closely with their electoral unit.

People should also generally find it easier to attend, since they will not have to travel as far to get to their Convention.

The new units were reviewed by District Teaching Committees in the districts being subdivided so that such factors as local geography, transportation routes, and area identity would be taken into account.

Many of the units were modified based on the comments received. The District Teaching Committees also proposed boundary changes, which were approved, for districts in North Carolina, Texas and Washington state.

Changes also were made to increase the size of those districts with the smallest populations, so that the number of Baha’is eligible to vote in these units would be closer to the national average of 322 voters per delegate.

Northern and Central Texas No. 2 were merged, as were Northern Louisiana and Eastern Texas No. 1.

One of the districts that elected two delegates last year, Northern Illinois No. 1, will be electing only a single delegate this year. This is a result of the delegate reapportionment that was completed based on membership figures as of January 1986.

Delegates are reapportioned periodically to reflect changes in the Baha’i population across the country. The districts of Eastern South Carolina No. 1, Eastern South Carolina No. 2, and Central Texas No. 1 have each gained a delegate, and now have an addi tional electoral unit, because of the increased size of their Baha’i communities.

In districts that are being subdivided into multiple electoral units, the District Teaching Committees have been sent detailed information about the units and will be passing on this information throughout the district.

Inquiries about the new electoral units should be directed to the District Teaching Committees or to the Office of the Secretary, Baha’i National Center.

Youth in Idaho sponsor series of events to promote world peace and citizenship

A group of youth representing high schools in Magic Valley, Idaho, has sponsored a series of Tecent public events to “‘promote world peace and world citizenship during the International Year of Peace.’””

During the observances in January of World Religion Day and the anniversary of the birth of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the mayors of Twin Falls, Gooding, Filer and Hagerman, Idaho, signed a joint declaration of support, expressing their hope ‘‘that the citizens of (the) area ... join together to launch Idaho’s ‘Magic Peace Project’ with such enthusiasm that it will reach across the land to unite the hearts of man during this, the International Year of Peace, 1986.””

The observance of Dr. King’s birthday included an area-wide “Wage Peace’? balloon launch timed to coincide with a broadcast of Leslie and Kelly’s song, ‘(We Are One.”’

In addition to these efforts, the Magic Peace Project Committee, with the help of Harry Massoth, a Baha’i on the committee, has obtained the governor’s proclamation for International Year of Peace; organized IYP youth delegations from a number of high schools; made presentations to local school superintendents, ministerial associations and city councils; and enlisted the help of ‘‘Miss Rodeo Idaho”? and an Olympic torch carrier to help promote their activities.

Presently, they are co-sponsoring a series of workshops on “Promoting Peace: A Task for All.” Their activities have attracted considerable media attention including several feature articles in local papers.

“The energy for creating peace is right here with the youth,’’ says Mr. Massoth. ‘‘They are the future, and they are the ones who can make things happen.”” [Page 14]14 / The American Baha’i / May 1986

Pictured are several of the new books that have become available from the Publishing Trust of the United Kingdom as a_result of the new agreement between it and tie Bahá’í Distribution Service. Prayers for Children ($1 SC) is a supplement to the several existing children’s prayer books. Story of Stories ($8 SC) is a publication of Volturna Press in England that presents an outline for children of all the world’s religions, and will be especially helpful to those

teaching progressive revelation to children. The Ascension of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ($2 SC) is a compilation prepared by Lady Blomfield and Shoghi Effendi in January 1922. Stories for Children ($3 SC) is the latest in a series of books by Jacqueline Mehrabi. It contains 12 short stories of one to two pages in length with 13 two-color drawings by Tony Sherling. Peace: A Compilation ($3 SC) is a small compilation by the World Center Research Department released in

1985 to all National Spiritual Assemblies. It will be an excellent companion piece to the more comprehensive compilation produced by the U.S. Publishing Trust—Peace: More Than an End to War ($16 HC, $8.95 SC). The compilation prepared in Haifa is directed more toward a Bahá’í audience, while Peace: More Than an End‘to War can be readily given to those investigating the Faith and those who are interested only in the Bahá’í views on peace.

Decision to end

The decision by the Baha’i Distribution Service to drop postage charges effective May | has raised some questions and points that need clarification.

While postage on standard orders will be free, there will still be special charges for extraordinary services.

The Distribution Service will maintain its $15 charge for

‘rush”’ orders (rush orders are accepted on smaller orders; additio Pensacola Baha’is send 5,000 copies of statement via paper

Although limited in resources and funds, the Baha’is of Pensacola, Florida, have nevertheless managed to distribute widely the peace statement from the Universal House of Justice, ‘‘The Promise of World Peace.”

Five thousand copies of the statement were printed and taken to the local black-oriented weekly newspaper, which carries on its editorial page a regular column, “A New Reality,” written by a Baha’i in Pensacola.

The entire statement with an invitation to a fireside was printed for only. $260. The insertion cost was $175, which the Baha’i columnist traded for labor.

To date, the paper has printed more than 65 articles about the Faith, and Baha’is from several states have written to the editor, commending him for its promotion of the Cause.

PTA award winner

Carolina Sbragia, a Baha’i who is president of the Esquire Hills, Washington, PTA, has won that group’s 1985-86 Golden Acorn Award for service to children.

Mrs. Sbragia has served for the past nine years as secretary of the Spiritual Assembly of Kitsap County Central.

postage charges is clarified

nal charges may be made for larger rush orders).

Customers who request that orders be shipped by other than normal methods, such as UPS “‘next day’’ or Second Day Air, will have to pay the actual postage charges for those services.

Postage charges still apply to individual orders outside the U.S. and its territories. A 15 per cent postage charge still applies to all overseas orders from individuals.

“We know that if we receive a large number of orders for one or two small items, our postage costs will be disproportionately high,’’ says Larry Bucknell, general manager of the Baha’i Publishing Trust. ‘‘It’s our hope that customers will place larger orders to help us keep our postage costs in line.

“We don’t plan to reinstate postage charges if our costs are too high. We will consider additional price increases next winter if we find our shipping charges rising out of proportion to our sales.””

The Distribution Service will also use less expensive shipping

methods when sending out single books from advance orders or standing orders.

“In general,’”’ says Mr. Bucknell, ‘“‘we want to use United Parcel Service as often as possible. However, we want to reserve the right to make judgments on smaller shipments.

“For example, the difference in cost on shipping a single book by fourth class mail or UPS can be $1.20.

“When you multiply that times several thousand orders a year,” says Mr. Bucknell, ‘‘it can make a big difference in your balance sheet.’”

Mr. Bucknell says that only a few prices were increased on the most recent price list issued by the Distribution Service while some prices were decreased.

He hopes, he says, that customers will see the decision to drop postage charges as a gesture of good will, and by placing larger orders and allowing the Distribution Service some leeway in choosing methods of shipment, will make the new policy a success for everyone concerned.

Baha’i books get good reviews from American Oriental Society

Three Baha’i books were favorably reviewed in a recent issue of the Journal of the American Oriental Society.

The titles reviewed were My Memories of Bahá’u’lláh (Kalimat Press, 1982), Door of Hope (George Ronald, 1983) and Studies in Babi and Bahá’í History (Kalimat Press, 1982).

The reviewer argues that while these books are of particular interest to Baha’is, they contain a good deal of information of interest to non-Baha’i scholars as well.

He notes, for example, that the memoirs of Bahd’u’ll4h’s barber (Ustad Muhammad ‘Ali Salmanj) provide a rare opportunity to view the 19th century Middle East through the eyes of a servant: “His account is a human document on customs and manners of the mid-19th century Muslim

world.’”

Regarding Door of Hope, the reviewer observes that the book contains much information about the history of Haifa and ‘Akká4, and is an important source for the history of Baha’is in that region.

“The historical material supplied by the author,’’ he writes, is quite indispensable for a proper understanding of the growth and development of the Baha’i movement in the Middle East and throughout the world.””

Studies in Bdbi and Baha’i History is identified as “‘by far the most important of the three works here reviewed from the historical point of view.””

The review, which was written by Michel M. Mazzaoui, a professor at the University of Utah, includes a detailed discussion of each article in that book.

Peace is the central theme of the two most recent books from George Ronald, Publisher. World Peace and World Government ($2.50 SC) is a small book that discusses several facets of the progress of the world and its peoples toward peace. ‘This thought-provoking book examines the reasons why world government is essential,’ the publisher says, ‘the arguments commonly given against it and the compelling Bahd’/ responses.’ Its author, J. Tyson, presently works at the Baha’i World Center after having been a pioneer to Liberia. Thoughts: Education for Peace and One World ($19.95 HC, $9.95 SC) isa

and entertaining stories, a _ questions to stimulate teachers

and students

collection of quotations from the Holy Books of the world’s religions. George Ronald’s promotion material refers to Thoughts as ‘a study for moral education containing quotations from the world’s sacred scriptures, instructive and entertaining stories from different cultures, and questions to stimulate teachers, parents, children and the general reader. It is divided into 64 sections with headings like Honesty, Generosity, Kindness, Respect for Others.’ George Ronald says the book was compiled by Irene Taafaki for use at the New Era School in Panchgani, India.

—Ascension of *Abdu’l-Bahá, SC — Baha’ Faith in America, HC —Baha’i Pocket Calendar —Baha’ Wall Calendar

—The Divine Art of Living, SC —O God, Guide Mel, SC —Peace: A Compilation, SC

—Prayers for Children, SC

ZRPOm Pm

—Peace: More Than an End to War, HC —Peace: More Than an End to War, SC

Amt... Quan, Amt. $2.00 ___Stories for Children, SC $3.00 19.95 _Story of Stories, SC 8.00 10/1.85 _Thoughts: Education for Peace, HC 19.95 1.25 _"Thoughts: Education for Peace, SC 9.95 7.95 _Touchstone of Sincerity, SC 6.50 3.75 _Unrestrained as the Wind, SC 1.95 3.00 _Unto Him Shall We Return, SC 1.95 CARD NO. 16.00 World Peace and World Government, SC 2.50 8.95 1.00 Name Address

Bahda’t Distribution Service 415 LINDEN AVENUE

WILMETTE, IL 60091

City

Credit card orders ($10.00 minimum) are accepted by phone: 800-323-1880 (outside Illinois), or 312251-1854 (within Illinois).

TAB 5/86

Enclose a check for the full amount, or

VISA/MC (CIRCLE ONE) EXP. DATE —____

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

State

Zip

Z£7Onm wm

Prices good through June 30, 1986 [Page 15]of Band’ w'ltsh 1°

ace stateThan an

their ver

strengthening

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staff of the hing TUS!

[Page 16]16 / The American Baha’i / May 1986

CLASSIFIEDS

Classified notices in The American Baha’i 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 Sor 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

WE NEED YOU... the Six Year Plan is under way and so is our search to find qualified individuals to serve in a variety of positions at the Bahd’{ National Center. As you explore your role in the Six Year Plan, please consider service at the National Center. The following is a list of positions for which we are presently accepting applications: Director, Office of Public Information: The director manages the office responsible for the training and development of the Baha’i public information network and a network of Baha’is who are media professionals. The office also supplies the Baha’i community with media materials. One or two years of administrative and supervisory experience and a college degree are necessary; excellent verbal and written communication skills are required. Public speaking experience is recommended; background in conference planning and program development is desirable. Fund Development Officer (Treasurer’s Office): Responsible for developing a comprehensive program designed to strengthen the institution of the Fund by devising communication and marketing strategies aimed at specific segments of the Baha’i community and through implementation of a Direct Planned Giying program. The individual would also suggest ideas for and help with the development of Fund education materials, and help coordinate activities for conferences, conventions and other meetings. A college degree in marketing or in a related field is required, as well as substantial experience in development at a university or with a charitable organization. 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 and their families. Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential. Strong organizational skills, general office experience and typing are required. Pioneering experience is preferred. Administrative assistant (International Goals Committee office): Drafts correspondence, maintains statistical rec ords on pioneers, helps with the preparation of Pioneer Post, coordinates and arranges Pioneer Training Institutes, and manages the physical aspects of the office such as ordering supplies and maintaining staff records. Strong organizational skills and an ability to work under pressure are essential as are a solid command of the English language and typing skills of at least 50 wpm. Familiarity with an Apple II word processor and some international experience would be helpful. Fund education coordinators (Office of the Treasurer): two vacancies to be filled in May and August. Helps in the administration of a nationwide program to strengthen the institution of the Fund by coordinating the National Treasurer’s Representative program and by responding to inquiries about the Fund from the field. A college education, strong organizational skills, excellent written and verbal communication skills and a firm knowledge of the Baha’i Writings are necessary. Secretarial assistant (PersianAmerican Affairs office): This is a non-Persian-speaking position which provides clerical support, greets visitors, makes appointments, helps with other projects. Good secretarial and organizational skills and typing of at least 55 wpm are necessary, together with a pleasant demeanor and telephone manner. Administrator (Baha’i House of Worship Activities office): This individual should be experienced in managing or directing an organization of volunteers. Establishes good relations with outside agencies and civic organizations, arranges and conducts tours and programs. Sponsors and hosts special events for the National Spiritual Assembly. Must have effective public speaking skills, general management abilities and the capacity to interact with dignitaries, public officials and the general population. Must be well-deepened in the Baha’i Teachings. Building engineer (NSA Properties Inc): Trains, develops and directs 2-4 person maintenance staff in completing daily maintenance tasks and requests, and undertakes special projects as these duties relate to the various goals set forth by the Maintenance Manager; administers programs in safety, sanitation and proper equipment usage; maintains quality control; orders and purchases supplies and equipment. Two to four years of handson experience in the following areas is required: low pressure boilers; centrifugal air conditioning; pneumatics; electrical and plumbing; interior/exterior maintenance and repairs. A valid driver’s license is essential. Inquiries about this position must be received no later than June 1. For more information about any of these positions, or to secure an application, contact Karen Crenshaw, Department of Human Resources, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312869-9039).

THE BAHA’{ International Community at the United Nations in New York City is seeking qual

Immediate opening for Youth Committee Office director at the Baha’i National Center in Evanston, Illinois. Seeking ‘‘youthful’’ manager with mature experience in staff and program supervision. Baha’i administrative experience and proven communication skills are important for this challenging position. Interested applicants should contact the Office of Human Resources, 312-8699039, before June 15 for an application and complete job description. Salary to be determined.

ified persons to fill two key positions: Special assistant in human rights and administrative assistant, Candidates for special assistant should have a bachelor’s degree or, if more mature, equivalent experience, preferably in social sciences or international law/relations. Candidates for administrative assistant should have excellent typing skills (65+ wpm, accurate), experience with word processing on a computer, dictaphone transcription, and filing. Highly organized work pattern is necessary to deal with deadlines and a fast-paced schedule. Languages other than English helpful but not required. For information and/or application, please write to the Baha’i International Community, UN Office,

_ New York, NY 10017.

THE GREEN Acre Baha’i School Council, in consultation with the National Teaching Committee and National Properties Committee, has created a new position, Director of Operations, at Green Acre, and is seeking applicants for the position. The director will be responsible for the over-all management of the school and the rebuilding program at Green Acre. He/she will oversee programming and facilities maintenance. The work includes scheduling, staffing, financial management, enhancement of programming, publicity, and development of the Friends of Green Acre. Applicants should have a background in facility management, public relations and business management skills, be familiar with Baha’i administration and be sensitive to the educational and developmental needs of the Baha’i community. Those who are interested should apply to the Office of Human Resources, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

THE Baha’i World Center is continuing its search for qualified individuals to serve in a variety of positions in the Holy Land. Following is a list of immediate needs at the World Center with a brief description ef experience needed and duties encompassed by each position: 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 assistant positions, as well as in the Baha’i Administrative Order; accuracy and good stylistic sense in English; 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, particularly European; work involves old and new construction; ability to read electrical blueprints. /ron worker, Several years’ experience in 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. Edu cation 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, teaching work procedures. Requires good analytical and writing skills, basic typing, knowledge of the Faith; a bachelor’s degree or adequate general education is required; library and/or information science degrees, library technician certificate or experience in these named professions is desirable. Together with these positions requiring immediate attention are many others for which there is an ongoing need. Positions which require individuals who are available for short-term commitments up to one year include interns for the Archives Office, garden helpers, janitorial and security staff (18 months). Other positions that require a commitment of two and one-half years or possibly longer include carpenter, plumber, mason/plasterer, painter, automotive mechanic, curator, general office helper, and bookkeeper. We encourage any of the friends who possess the necessary skills and have a desire to serve at the World Center now or in the future to contact Karen Crenshaw, Department of Human Resources, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312869-9039 at their earliest convenience.

THE LOUHELEN Baha’i School is taking applications for intern positions in maintenance, food service and ‘‘Reflections’’ sales. Intern positions entail living at Louhelen and receiving room, board and a weekly stipend for other living expenses. Positions are full-time. Length of service depends on the needs of the school and the Louhelen Residential College. Applicants must be at least 17 years of age. This is a marvelous opportunity to help in developing the Residential College and other services at Louhelen. Please send a letter and resumé to the Louhelen Baha’i School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423.

THE NATIONAL Spiritual Assembly’s Office of External Affairs is seeking a secretary for its office in New Haven, Connecticut. The office is responsible for contact with the U.S. government, national media and organizations, and prominent persons. The secretary acts as receptionist, types correspondence, and maintains files in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment. Previous office experience, good telephone manner and typing skills of 60 wpm are necessary. Word processing experience is desirable. To apply, write to the Office of External Affairs, New Haven, CT 06510.

THE OFFICE of the U.S./UN Representative to the United Nations needs a qualified individual to serve as an administrative assistant to help the U.S./UN Representative prepare for briefings, conferences and special projects. Types correspondence, maintains files and office accounts. High energy, good verbal and written skills, typing of 55 wpm are essential. Basic accounting skills are necessary. A college degree is desirable. Interested individuals should send a resumé to Ms. Shiva Tavana, UN Representative, Ba ha’is of the United States, - New York, NY 10017.

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

AN OPENING in 1987-88 for a school superintendent for Williamsburg County (Kingstree), South Carolina, a mass-taught area only 30 minutes from the Louis Gregory Institute in Hemingway, 40 minutes from Florence, an hour from Charleston. Also, several positions (for a principal, teachers) in 1986-87. South Carolina law requires that teachers, except in critical areas such as math and science, have an up-todate state teachers’ certificate and practice teaching. Housing is reasonable and readily available. Come to South Carolina and help build God’s Kingdom! Contact

Lally, . Kingstree, SC 29556. WANTED: persons to work for world peace. Please consider joining us at the College of World Peace. To inquire, write to P.O. Box 774, Lithonia, GA 30058.

PIONEERING (OVERSEAS)

THAILAND needs a Project Director and Community Organizer to establish an opium detoxification facility in a refugee camp near the Laotian border. The Project Director should be a medical doctor or nurse practitioner with detox experience and background in public health. The Community Organizer should be a_ public health nurse or nurse educator with experience in community outreach and educational services. Housing, insurance and transportation to Thailand are provided. For more information, contact the International Goals Committee, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312869-9039.

FAMILY practice physician with experience in emergency medicine is needed in the Turks and Caicos Islands to help administer a small, fee-for-service, non-profit organization. The position includes housing and use of a vehicle. The Turks and Caicos have been a consolidation goal of the U.S. since 1972, and pioneers are greatly needed to help carry forward the teaching work in this vital Caribbean goal. For more information, contact the International Goals Committee, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

NIGERIA needs professors in primary and pre-primary education at the University of Cross Rivers State. A degree in child or developmental psychology or in primary or pre-primary education is required. The university is situated in an area of Nigeria that is in great need of deepened Baha’is to strengthen its communities. For more information, write to the International Goals Committee, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

RADIO/TY announcer is needed on Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands. Duties include operation of all broadcast equipment, video production, composition of video layouts/graphics, and news and sports reporting. Applicants [Page 17]should have two years of recent broadcasting experience and a knowledge of video operations and production. For more information, contact the International Goals Committee, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

THE SCHOOL of the Nations, a Baha’i-owned and operated school in Brazil, is looking for teachers for kindergarten through eighth grade. Applicants must have a college degree, teaching certificate, and successful teaching experience. Fluency in English is required; Portuguese is not necessary. Good salary and benefits are offered. Students include the children of Brazilian and foreign diplomats. Two-year contracts are being offered starting in July 1986. If you would like more information about these positions, please contact the International Goals Committee, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

TEACHERS for pre-school, kindergarten, first and second grades, and third and fourth grades are needed in the Marshall Islands. The school director hopes to have the first and second grade teacher serve also as school administrator; he is quite favorable toward the Faith and would prefer to hire a Baha’i for the position. A couple with young children or no children, accustomed to rugged conditions, would be perfect. Please contact the International Goals Committee, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

PIONEERING (HOMEFRONT)

MACON, a city of 125,000 in central Georgia, has a non-functioning Assembly and needs homefront pioneers to help create and maintain a strong Baha’i community. Macon is the home of several large hospitals and insurance offices and many manufacturing companies. Students may consider attending Mercer University, Wesleyan College or Macon Junior College. For more information, please contact Mrs. Joy Hecht,

Macon, GA 31211 (phone 912745-9007).

HOMEFRONT pioneers are needed in Gorham, Maine, a lovely New England town 10 miles from Portland, the largest city in the state, which has various colleges, trade schools, business schools and a law school. Gorham is the site of the University of Southern Maine, and there are many opportunities to begin one’s education or enhance one’s profession. The coast of Maine and the mountains of New Hampshire make this a wonderful recreational area for children and families. For more information, write to the Spiritual Assembly of Gorham, P.O. Box 265, Gorham, ME 04038.

PIONEER to Northern California! Bahd’{ in Dunsmuir is leaving this summer for an overseas pioneer post and must sell two properties. The first is a sixroom house on the main street with wood heater and electric heat, a large living room, centrally located across from the Post Office. Total price: $33,250 with assumable loan. The other property, which adjoins in the back of the lot, consists of two comfortable flats. It also has an assumable loan. They are on the main interstate highway between California

and Oregon; the nearest Assembly is 50 miles south, at Redding. There is no Assembly at all in Siskiyou County. Employment in the area is limited; there is no factory work or agriculture. Needed are educators, medical professionals, or self-employed people. For information, write to Alice Lovejoy, P.O. Box 3, Dunsmuir, CA 96025, or phone 916-235-4709 or 916-235-0355.

IF YOU want to serve our beloved Faith where you are really needed, consider moving to Jacksonville, Illinois, a friendly, attractive community with two colleges, Illinois College and MacMurray, site of the Illinois School for the Deaf and a school for the visually impaired. Once there was an active Assembly here, but the deepened Baha’is all moved away leaving two more or less active Baha’is and many mass-enrolled, but not well-deepened, others who are hard to find. One or two Baha’i families would have unlimited opportunities to teach and to help restore an Assembly to this part of Illinois. For more information, write to Virginia Eilers, P.O. Box 1244, Jacksonville, IL 62651, or phone 217-243-4084.

FOR mature, responsible adult Baha’is only: Columbia, South Carolina, Baha’i offers a furnished room in the city on bus line with kitchen, living room and dining room privileges. Columbia, the state capital, has lots of teaching potential and needs your help. For more information, contact the Spiritual Assembly of Columbia, P.O. Box 5973, Columbia, SC 29250, or phone 803-735-0977.

TRAVELING TEACHING

MUSICIANS: Join the ‘We Cannot Fail Them ...”” campaign, which is back on the road again, at the request of the Continental Board of Counselors, for its second summer of musical travel teaching in the Caribbean. For help in planning your trip and more information about the campaign, contact Gregory P. Meyjes, coordinator, ‘‘We Cannot Fail Them ...,” _

. Chapel Hill, NC 27514 (phone 919-682-9282) or Martha Patrick, secretary,

Durham, NC 27707 (phone 919-929-2918).

ARCHIVES

WANTED: Original Tablets of ‘Abdu’ l-Bahd to the following individuals, with approximate dates of the Tablets: Harry Gale, Chicago (1910); Margaret Graham, New York (1909); Mrs. Anna Mason Hoar, New York (1911); Homer S. Harper, Minneapolis (1910); Joseph Hone, Baltimore (1910); Frederick B. Hawkins, Brooklyn (1910); Albert H. Hall, Minneapolis (1909); Miss Angeline Haste, San Francisco (1909); Sarah G. Herron, Chicago; and Helen Louise Hickson, Hollywood, CA (1910). Anyone having information about the possible location of these Tablets is asked to contact the National Baha’i Archives, Bahd’{ National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

THE NATIONAL Baha’i Archives is seeking the personal papers of New York City Baha’is including those of William Hoar, Frank Osborne, Arthur P. Dodge family, Howard MacNutt, James Brittingham, Herman Pauli and Roy C. Wilhelm. The Archives is especially interested in original letters, diaries, personal recollec tions, manuscripts and photographs. Anyone having information about these or other personal papers of New York City Baha’is is asked to contact the National Baha’i Archives, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

THE NATIONAL Baha’i Archives needs an IBM or IBM-compatible personal computer but lacks the funds. If anyone is acquiring a new computer and has a used IBM or IBM-compatible PC which could be donated to the Archives, please contact the National Baha’ Archives, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

CONFERENCES

A CONFERENCE for new Assemblies and new Assembly members will be held June 6-8 at the Louhelen Baha’; School. Teachers, are Auxiliary Board member Dorothy Borhani; Eugene Andrews, a member of the National Teaching Committee; and Mrs. Anna Lee Strasburg of the Office of the Secretary in Wilmette. See the schools’ insert in the April issue of The American Baha’i or write to the Louhelen Baha’i School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423 (phone 313-653-5033).

WOMEN’S Conference is to be held June 27-29 at the Louhelen Baha’i School. Keynote talks by Dr. Jane Faily and workshops on a variety of issues are featured. For more information, see the schools’ insert in the April issue of The American Baha’i or contact the Louhelen Baha’i School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423 (phone 313-653-5033).

TAKE your spirit for a walk on “Quest ’86.’’ Deepen on the Creative Word while backpacking in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Watch for more information from the South Dakota Baha’i Schools Committee.

ATTENTION: Assemblies, Groups and isolated believers in Illinois, southern Wisconsin and western Iowa. The Spiritual Assembly of Rockford, Illinois, is sponsoring the fifth annual Baha’i Young Peoples Overnight. Dates are August 16-17. The location has been changed to White Eagle 4H Camp in Leaf River, Illinois. Swimming, canoeing, hiking and craft programs will provide a Baha’i_ community experience for children from kindergarten through age 16. Last year 50 children attended. To enable us to continue offering this exciting experience at affordable rates, we need your support. Write to Linda Somerhalder,

Rockford, IL 61103. Registration information will be included in District Teaching Committee bulletins and mailed to Assemblies in the area.

ADULT literacy teaching training is scheduled July 27-August 1 at the Louhelen Bahd’{ School. An intensive training course in the methods of teaching literacy, conducted by Dr. William Diehl. To register, or to obtain more information, see the schools’ insert in the April issue of The American Baha’i or contact the Louhelen Baha’i School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423 (phone 313-653-5033).

YOU are wanted to attend the Wisconsin Baha’i School at Camp Byron, Brownsville, July 21-25. Come and relax in a Baha’i atmosphere in a park-like setting in southeastern Wisconsin. The

The American Baha’i / May 1986 / 17

theme is ‘‘World Peace—What Can I Do?” Course topics include parenting for peace, partnership for peace, and prejudice and peace. Comfortable modern rooms and camp sites at reasonable rates. For a brochure, write to Beverly Fraker, registrar,

. Waukesha, WI 53188, or phone 414-542-0674.

BAHA’l SCHOOLS

THE LAND on which the Conifer Hill Baha’i School was held was returned last October to its original owner and will no longer be operated as a national Baha’i school. Items, if still in existence, that were given to the Committee/Council will be returned if a request is received by July 15. Cost of shipment should be included with the request and sent to R.J. Harris, P.O. Box 860, Lyons, CO 80540. Information about possible future use of the property may also be requested.

ITEMS AVAILABLE

A COURSE on ‘‘The Forces of Light and Darkness’’ by Counselor Hooper Dunbar is available on audio cassette. The course examines the origin and operation of these forces, the power of the Creative Word, the interaction of spirit and matter, and presents an analysis of the forces of darkness and of the diffusion of the forces of light. The impact of these forces on the individual and society is explored, as are the Major and Minor Plans of God, the twin processes of integration and disintegration, the purging of one’s character and becoming incarnate light. Four tapes, $26. Write to Reflections, Louhelen Baha’i School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423, or phone 313-6535033. VISA or MasterCard accepted.

A COURSE on ‘Baha’ Development: The Practical Processes of Transforming Mankind,’’ by Holly Vick, Baha’i World Center, is available on audio tape. The course examines the Baha’i concept of development, compares it to other models, places it in the context of the Faith’s emergence from obscurity, and explores its prospects for instigating an or ganic change in human society as a means of building the Baha’i world commonwealth. Four tapes, $26. Write to Reflections, Louhelen Baha’i School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423, or phone 313-653-5033. VISA or MasterCard accepted.

“PUBLICATIONS in English’’ Bulletin. There are more and more new Baha’i books all the time. What is the easiest way to keep up with Baha’i publications in English from around the world? Ask for the ‘Publications in English’’ Bulletin, published twice each year. Bulletin No. 4 (Spring 1986) is now available. Order free copies for your community from George Ronald Books,

St. Louis, MO 63108.

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

A NEW catalog of buttons, bumper stickers, T-shirts and other items bearing the slogan “‘Wage Peace—The Baha’i Faith’’ will be available this month. For a free copy, write to Kalimat Press, 1600 Sawtelle Blvd., Suite 34, Los Angeles, CA 90025.

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

CHILDREN’S Bah’{ membership cards are available from the

See ADS page 25

‘Doctor?’ the Ayatullah asked once more. ‘This is your last chance. Recant!’ Ḥakím Rahbari thought he was ready for the ultimate test. But it turned out not to be so simple. . .

256 pages Softcover $6.50

New from George Ronald, Publisher

The Touchstone of Sincerity A novel by Jeff Albert

Order through your local librarian, or send check or money order (including 10% for postage and handling, minium $1.50) to:

Bahá’í Distribution Service, 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091

‘a moving story. . .a very remarkable novel and one that should help us understand the travail of the Iranian Baha’ fs . . .gives incredible insights into the situation . -not only does it give an understanding difficult to achieve otherwise, but it also strengthens the reader’s faith. A very timely and profound portrayal. . .’

Member of the Bahá’í Reviewing Panel of the United Kingdom

[Page 18]18 / The American Baha’i / May 1986

Mensaje de la Casa Universal de Justicia para Ridvan senala logros y metas

A los Baha’is del mundo Muy amados amigos,

La Primavera Divina esta avanzando rapidamente y todos los 4tomos del mundo respondiendo a la influencia vibrante de la Revelacién de Bahá’u’lláh. Las evidencias de esta nueva vida estan claramente aparentes en el progreso de la Causa de Dios. Cuando contemplanos, aunque momentaneamente, como se desdobla el disefio de su crecimiento, no podemos sino reconocer, con maravilla y gratitud, el poder irresistible de esa Mano Todopoderosa que gufa su destino.

Este progreso se ha acelerado notablemente durante el Plan de Siete Afios, atestiguado por el logro de muchas empresas importantes en todo el mundo baha’s y acontecimientos vitales en el coraz6n mismo de la Fe. La restauracién de ala sur de la casa de ‘Abdu’ llah Pasha y su apertura para el peregrinaje; la terminacién y ocupacién de la Sede de la Casa Universal de Justicia; la aprobacién de planes destallados para los restantes edificios alrededor del Arco; la expansién de las responsibilidades y del numero de los miembros del Centro Internacional de Ensefianza y de los Cuerpos Continentales de Consejeros; el establecimiento de las oficinas de Desarrollo Social y Econdémico, y de Informacién Piiblica; la dedicacién del Templo Madre del Pacifico, y progreso dramatico en la construccién del Templo en la India; la expansién del trabajo de la ensefianza en todo el mundo, con el resultado de la formacién de veintitres nuevas Asambleas Espirituales Nacionales, casi 8,000 nuevas Asambleas Espirituales Locales, la apertura de mas de 16,000 nuevas localidades y representacién dentro de la comunidad baha’i de 300 tribus nuevas; la produccién de 2,196 nuevas publicaciones, 898 de las cuales son ediciones del Texto Sagrado, y el enriquecimiento de literatura baha’i por medio de producciones en 114 nuevos idiomas; la iniciacién de 737 nuevos proyectos de desarrollo social y econémico; la adicién de tres emisoras de radio, con otras tres a inaugurarse pronto—éstos se destacan como logros conspicuos en un Plan que sera recordado como el que fijé el sello a la tercera época de la Edad Formativa.

La apertura de ese Plan coincidié con el resurgimiento de persecucién salvaje de la comunidad baha’i en Iran, un esfuerzo deliberado por eliminar a la Causa de Dios del pais donde nacié. La firmeza herdéica de los amigos persas ha sido el motivo principal de extraordinaria atencién internacional que se ha enfocado sobre la Causa, llevandola eventualmente a la agenda de la Asamblea General de las Naciones Unidas y, junto con la publicidad mundial en todos los medios publicitarios, logrando su emergencia de la oscuridad que caracterizé y protegid el primer perfodo de su vida. Este proceso dramatico impulsé a la Casa Universal de Justicia a dirigir un Enunciado Sobre la Paz a los Pueblos del Mundo y hacer arreglos para su entrega a Jefes de Estado y a los gobernantes en general.

Paralelo a estos eventos sobresalientes ha habido un notable despliegue de crecimiento organico en la madurez de las instituciones de la Causa. Tanto el desarrollo de capacidad y responsabilidad de su parte como el otorgamiento a éstas (instituciones) de autonomia cada vez mayor se han fomentado por alentar colaboracién mas y mds estracha entre los brazos gemelos del Orden Administrativo. Este proceso ahora da un gran paso hacia adelante al consultar conjuntamente las Asam.bleas Espirituales Nacionales y los Consejeros para formular, por primera vez, las metas nacionales de un plan internacional de ensefianza. Juntos deben relizarlos; juntos deben implementar los objetivos mundiales del Plan de Seis Afios segiin se aplican en cada pais. Este acontecimiento significante constituye una apertura digna para la cuarta época de la Edad Formativa e inicia un proceso que sin duda habra de caracterizar esa época a medida que la fuerza e influencia de las comunidades nacionales crece y éstas puedan difundir en sus propios paises él espiritu de amor y unidad social que es la marca distintiva de la Causa de Dios.

Las metas que deben lograrse en el Centro Mundial incluyen la publicacién de una tracuccién al inglés del Kitab-i-Aqdas y textos relacionados con numerosas anotaciones, la educacién del mundo bahd’i con respecto a la ley del Huqtiqu’ll4h, el proseguimiento de planes para la ereccidn de los restantes edificios en el Arco, y el ensanchamiento de la base de las relaciones internacionales de la Fe.

Los principales objetivos mundiales del Plan ya se han enviado a Asambleas Espirituales Nacionales y Cuerpos Continentales de Consejeros para mutua consulta e implementacién.

Queridos amigos, a medida que el mundo pasa por su hora mas oscura antes del amanecer, la Causa de Dios, resplandeciendo cada vez mas brillantemente, avanza con esfuerzo hacia esa alborada cuando el Estandarte Divino sea desplegado y el Ruisefior del Paraiso entone su melodia.

Con carifiosos saludos baha’is,

La Casa Universal de Justicia Riḍván 1986

Green Lake Conference set September 12-14

The annual Green Lake (Wisconsin) Baha’i Conference will be held September 12-14 at the American Baptist Assembly in Green Lake.

Among the many outstanding speakers scheduled to appear at this year’s session are Counselor Robert Harris and Tony Pelle, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Hawaiian ‘Is lands.

For program information only, contact Sue Schaut, Planning Committee secretary,

Sun Prairie, WI 53590, or phone 608-837-8609.

Registration inquiries should be sent to the American Baptist Assembly, Green Lake, WI 54941 (phone 414-294-3323).

La Fiesta de los 19 Dias: vital para la comunidad

La Fiesta de los 19 Dias es una reunién a celebrarse una vez cada 19 dias por los baha’is de cada ciudad o pueblo.

Como esta fiesta est4 recomendada por el Bab y ratificada por Baha’u’llah, por lo tanto, es considerada como muy importante.

Esta fiesta es una parte de la administracién baha’i y asi como explicé el amado Guardian, el programa de la Fiesta de los 19 Dias consiste de tres partes.

La primera parte es un programa devocional. Oraciones y lecturas de las Sagradas Escrituras de El Bab, Bahá’u’lláh y ‘Abdu’l-Bahá pueden ser ofrecidas por unos pocos amigos al comienzo de esta fiesta.

La segunda parte es administrativa. La Asamblea Espiritual por medio de se secretario da un informe de las actividades de la Asamblea y pide a los amigos baha’is presentes que den sus sugerencias y ofrecimientos para la promocién de la Causa de Baha’u’llah.

Este periddo de consulta es el momento para que los creyents puedan hacer sugerencias para que sean enviadas por la Asamblea Local a la Asamblea Nacional.

La tercera parte es social. Los amigos pueden cantar. Si es posible, se sirve un refrigerio sencillo.

Generalmente los individuos baha’is toman turnos como anfitriones de las Fiestas. A veces la Asamblea Espiritual Local realiza la Fiesta con sus propios fondos.

También es posible que algunos baha’is colaboren como anfitriones de una Fiesta. Es preferible que hay algun refrigerio en la parte social, pero esto no es absolutamente necesario.

Bahá’u’lláh dijo que el anfitrion de una Fiesta puede servir solamente agua simple. La cosa importante en la Fiesta de los 19 Dias es el desarrollo espiritual de

SPANISH

Cté. Nacional nombra Grupo de Trabajo para Ensefianza Hispana

Cinco personas activas en la ensefianza hispana han sido nombradas a un Grupo de Trabajo para Ensefianza Hispana del Comité Nacional de Ensefianza.

El propésito del Grupo de Trabajo es de intensificar la ensefianza entre los Hispanos a fin de que la participacién hispana en la Comunidad Baha’i Americana puede ser aumentada.

Los cinco miembros son Estelle Hermasillo de Connecticut, Manuel Marcial de Florida, Sergio Montenegro de California, Don Roupé de Illinois, y Judith Spychalski de Arizona.

Personas que se interesan por ayudar con este importante esfuerzo de ensefianza puedan comunicarse con el Grupo de Trabajo a traves de la oficina de Comité Nacional de Ensefianza, 312869-9039.

No es necesario hablar espafiol para colaborar en este esfuerzo de ensefianza.

los baha’is y el aumento de unidad y armonia entre ellos.

Deberia servir, también para ayudar en el progreso de la Causa en la localidad en consulta y colaboracion con la Asamblea Espiritual.

Las fechas en que celebrar las Fiestas son:

Fecha _ (nombre del mes bahd’i) 21 de marzo (Esplendor) 9 de abril (Gloria) 28 de abril (Belleza) 17 de mayo (Grandeza) 5 de junio (Luz) 24 de junio (Miseracordia) 13 de julio (Palabras) 1 de agosto (Perfeccién) 20 de agosto (Nombres) 8 de setiembre (Fuerza) 27 de setiembre (Voluntad) 16 de octubre (Conocimiento) 4 de noviembre (Poder) 23 de noviembre (Expresién) 12 de diciembre (Preguntas) 31 de diciembre (Honor) 19 de enero (Soberania) 7 de febrero (Dominio)

2 de marzo (Sublimidad)

‘Abdu’l-Bahá nos dijo: ‘En estas reuniones, de ninguna manera debe haber conversaciones impropias a ellas. Al contrario, la Asamblea debe limitarse a leer y recitar las palabras Sagradas y al examen de asuntos relacionados con la Causa de Dios ...

“‘Quienes se presenten en estas reuniones primero deben vestirse con ropas limpias, volver el rostro hacia el Reino de Abha y entonces, con humildad y sumisién, entrar.

“Durante las lecturas deben observar total silencio. Cuando alguno desea hablar, debe expresarse con todo humildad, y con exactitud y elocuencia.’’

Preguntas:

1. Para qué propésito sierve la Fiesta de los 19 Dias?

2. Por qué es importante asistir a las Fiestas de los 19 Dias?

3. Cémo se llama el préxima mes baha’{?

Un cuento para los nifios: el Mensajero de Baha’u’Ilah

para los nifios Cuento; el mensajero

Salman era el mensajero de Bahda’u’ll4h. Viajaba siempre entre la prisién de ‘Akká y Persia Ilevando los escritos de Baha’wll4h a los bahd’is y trayendo noticias a Bahd’u’ll4h de Sus amados.

En esos tiempos era muy peligroso ser baha’is, porque los enemigos de la Fe los buscaban para hacerles daiio.

Salman siempre viajaba con mucho cuidado. Una vez, saliendo de Persia llevaba muchas cartas de los baha’{s para Bahá’u’lláh.

Entonces pens6: si alguien me descubre con todas estas cartas sabra que soy baha’{ y me matar4.

Tengo que esconder las cartas para poder cumplir esta misién.

Por lo tanto tomé su abrigo, lo descosié, metid todas las cartas dentro y lo volvié a coser. Asi nadie vera las cartas se dijo.

Salman comenzé su viaje. El viaje era muy largo y tuvo que caminar durante muchos dias.

Un dia cuando ya estaba llegando a la cuidad prision de ‘Akká tuvo que pasar por un pueblo. Estaba casi anocheceindo cuando cruzé la plaza, mas alguien lo vid y dijo:

—Ahi va un bahd’i, agarrenlo.

En seguida la policia lo cogieron y lo Ilevaron a la carcel, y como. estaba ya oscuro le dijeron:

—Maijiana vamos a requisar todas tus cosas, si es verdad que eres baha’i te mataremos majiana mismo.

Salman pensd y pensd. Sabia que cuando vinieran a requisar sus cosas encontrarfan las cartas y lo matarian.

Estaba verdaderamente en un gran peligro. Por lo tanto comenz6 a orar.

—Oh Bahá’u’lláh, decia Salman, si es Tu voluntad, mafiana sacrificaré mi vida en Tu sendero. Si no es Tu voluntad Tu protecci6n es sufficiente para mi.

Mientras oraba, le vino una idea que podria salvare la vida. En seguida se paré y pidié un vaso de agua al guardia. El guardia dijo:

—¢Para que quieres agua si maiiana te mataran?

Mas él insisti6:

—La necesito-, y fue tanto su

Tuego que al fin se la trajeron. Entonces Salman se senté en el rincén mas oscuro de la celda, descosié su abrigo, sacé todas las cartas y las rompié en pedazos. Luego se puso a comer las cartas, bajando el papel con agua. Comia y comia cartas. Cuando Ilegaron la policia por la mafiana requisaron todas sus cosas pero no encontraron prueba ninguna de que fuera baha’i.

Por lo tanto lo saltaron y él pudo continuar su viaje dando gracias a Dios.

Cuando llego a la prisién de ‘Akká sintié mucha pena por no poder entregar las cartas que todos los amados de Bahá’u’lláh Le habian enviado.

Pero Bahda’u’ll4h le consold. Entonces Salman entendiéd que Bahá’u’lláh le habia oido su oracién y habia protegido su vida.

Statement is given to Catholic Bishop

On February 21, two members of the Bahdé’{ community of Grand Rapids, Michigan, met with Bishop Joseph Breitenbeck, head of the Grand Rapids Catholic Diocese, to present him with a copy of ‘‘The Promise of World Peace.””

In accepting the statement from Ghebrelul Ghebre and Dr. Winifred Eshragh, Bishop Breitenbeck expressed his concern about the persecution of Baha’is in Iran and asked what he and other Catholics might do to help alleviate their suffering.

The Bishop then called in his secretary to take photographs of the occasion for eventual publication in The Western Michigan Catholic, which reaches some 10,000 households.

He also made arrangements to have ‘Mona with the Children,” which was being telecast on the Grand Rapids cable channel that same evening, video taped for later viewing.

[Page 19]

DR. MANUCHIHR HAKIM

(This month the Persian/American Affairs Committee presents the first in a series of profiles of the recent maryrs in Iran, drawn from its files and archives.)

.

Dr. Maniichihr Ḥakím was born in Tehran in 1911. He attended medical school in Europe, becoming a professor agrégé at the Faculté de Médicine of the University of Paris. He became internationally renowned for his work in anatomy, and published many books in this field including the six-volume work Traité d’Anatomie Descriptive et Topographique (Treatise of Descriptive and Topographical Anatomy), and Traité Concernant les Membres Supérieurs et Inférieurs (Treatise on the Upper and Lower Limbs). His works have been used as part of textbooks in many medical colleges.

Dr. Ḥakím also discovered the sacrolumbal ligament, which is named after him. His name is cited in Le Rouviere, a famous French medical encyclopedia, in connection with his anatomical discoveries.

In 1938 Professor Ḥakím returned to Iran and established the Chair of Anatomy at the University of Tehran. He also helped found the Missaghieh Hospital, a Baha’i-owned hospital in Tehran operated under the direction of the National Spiritual Assembly of Iran, and served as its director for 30 years. The Missaghieh Hospital was a charitable institution that treated any patient irrespective of his religious affiliation, and cared for the poor free of charge.

Dr. Ḥakím was also the motivating spirit behind the establishment of the Baha’i Home for the Aged, likewise operated under the aegis of the National Spiritual Assembly of Iran, which cared for the elderly of all religious backgrounds. In 1976 he was awarded the French Légion d’Honneur for his humanitarian services.

In addition to his extraordinary services in the medical field, Dr. Ḥakím was a member for more than 25 years of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of Tran and served several times as its chairman.

In 1980, when in France, Dr. Ḥakím was warned by friends not to return to Iran because his life might be in danger. Dr. Ḥakím, however, felt a responsibility to his patients, especially because the Missaghieh Hospital had been seized and some of its patients evicted. On January 8 and 9, 1981, Dr. Ḥakím was questioned by Revolutionary Guards of the Islamic Republic of Iran who wanted details about the administration of the hospital and a list of all Baha’i doctors in Iran. Dr. Ḥakím refused to provide them with the names of Baha’i doctors.

That weekend he received telephoned threats, but refused to go into hiding, preferring to continue his treatment of patients. On January 12, 1981, he was murdered in his private clinic by several gun shots fired by unknown assailants. He was 70 years old.

The Universal House of Justice, in a telex the following day, informed the Baha’i world of the tragic loss of “Professor Mantchihr Ḥakím distinguished physician eminent Professor University Tehran. ... Spirit courage dedication with which this most recent martyr discharged sacred responsibilities on supreme National Baha’ Institution Cradle Faith worthy emulation Baha’i administrators and friends every land.””

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HOTEL RESERVATION FORM

Baha’i International Peace Conference August 28-31, 1986 San Francisco, California

American, two other airlines set discount fares to Conference

Arrangements have been made with American, PSA and

Mail to: Baha’ International Peace Conference Housing Bureau P.O. Box 5612, San Francisco, California 94101

pues ines i ottes seal eas Note: You will receive acknowledgment of your reserva- a iscount fares to those at- Me tion(s) directly from the Housing Bureau. To assure your

reservation, a $100 deposit check must be received by the hotel 15 days prior to arrival. Details will be explained on | hotel confirmation. Send deposit to hotel where assigned. DO NOT SEND deposit to convention housing bureau. For cancellations up to fifteen (15) days prior to your arrival, contact the Housing Bureau in writing. Less than fifteen (15) days prior to arrival, contact the hotel directly. All cancellations must be received by assigned hotel at least 72 hours prior to arrival for refund. All other changes must be made directly with the hotel.

tending the Peace Conference in San Francisco.

American offer a mum discount of 45 per cent if flights are booked at least 14 days before departure, and 40 per cent if travel is booked within 14 days of departure.

PSA and Alaska will offer 25 per cent off full coach fare. Discounts apply only to travel Twin within the continental U.S. and cover the period from August 21-September 7.

To reserve your flight, call American Airlines toll-free (between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. your local time) Monday through Friday, 1-800-4331790, and ask for Star File No. $61833.

American will handle reser

City, State, Zip

Arrival Date and Time Departure Date

Please reserve rooms

Single Double

Suite Reservations will not be held past 6:00 p.m. unless arrangements,

Hotel: are made with the hotel from which you receive confirmation.

Conference rates in effect for 1 week prior to and 1 week following the conference.

Ist Choice:

2nd Choice:

Room reservations cannot be guaranteed unless this form is received by July 31, 1986

3rd Choice:

cities they do not serve. Tickets will be mailed to you

$10 Discount for

vations on PSA, Alaska Air CONFERENCE Baha’i International Peace Conference Mail to: and American Eagle, and will REGISTRATION August 28-31, 1986 Conference Registration also handle reservations from FORM San Francisco, California Baha’i National Center

Wilmette, IL 60091

by Association Travel Inc. Registration Rates Early Registration’*** Number x Rate

By booking through the

‘above BOO nuraber, vou ban get $ 50 Adults (21+) BAD eat Seed x

advance seating assignments $ 4O Children & Pre-youth* $ 30 x

and request special meals on . is

American Airlines. Boarding ero pee cem tee ae : : a

passes on American flights will $135 Family of 4 or more*** $125 x

be mailed with your ticket(s). ane a Shuttle Bus Rates:

Guest ___ Baha’i ID # Adults $10/weekend re x B ah amas Name Age Children $ 6/weekend ee x Guest) __Bahá’íID * Shuttle bus routed between conference TOTAL from page 7 Shake mi facilities, Thur. pm through Sun. noon ENCLOSED , ‘ ~ — ae (Public transport - MUNI, 75¢ per ride)

Housing was graciously provi these a eee Make checks payable to: Baha’i Peace Conference ed by the National Spiritual As- 4. Name ‘Age Chargeto: VISA (MASTERCARD sembly of the Bahamas at the Na- Guest Baha’i ID * : tional Center in Nassau, and food Card # ‘ Expiration Date was also provided at a nominal OPlease send info on work/study scholarships

Signature 4

cost. t *Ages 3-14 (under 3 free) Confemiation

The trip was a booming success! **With current student ID Address

Parents and 2 or more children over 3 ‘MUST BE POSTMARKED BY JULY 31, 1986

The promise of peace The Challenge of ACTION

Flyers bearing the caption ‘‘Is World Peace Possible?’’ (the question mark took up half the page) were given to some 600 Bahamians inviting them to the Center to see the ‘‘Mona’’ video and to discuss peace.

The Bahamians were quite receptive and listened to everything the youth had to say. Pamphlets on peace were handed out to those who were especially interested.

At one point, the youth group stopped to ‘‘rap’”’ with a group of Bahamian youth who were playing basketball, and the “rap” turned into an hour-long fireside.

The fireside that evening was a huge success, and the day’s efforts resulted in three declarations.

The next step, of course, is to keep this tiny flame lit. The youth of Southeast Florida are eager to return to their adopted goal area, and are busy raising the funds and arranging the details of such a trip.

A month-long summer project is in the works as well, and youth from across the country are invited to participate.

City, State, Zip

“The National Fund must be firmly established, generously supported and universally

Those who are interested are en- Assisting and continually upheld, for it is the prerequisite of future Gane Committee ee Baha’i communities progress and Coes —SHOGHI aa ee TheNational Baha‘

a worldwide. .. . Fund National Bahá’ Fund Wilmette, IL 60091 Wilmette, IL, 60091

[Page 23]INTERMEDIA

News from Office of Public Information

Another success story! The Baha’is of Indianola, Iowa, received front-page coverage in the Indianola Record-Herald under the headline, “Baha’is: A Small Group Keeping the Faith.’’ The article, which was accompanied by a photograph, continued on page 2 with the headline, “‘Baha’i Goal: World Peace.”’ Local Baha’ is had twice invited the paper to take photographs at presentations of the peace statement to local officials. Although reporters did attend, no pictures were taken and there was no coverage in the paper. But a month after the second presentation, a photo session was requested by the paper and hastily arranged, and both picture and article were printed shortly thereafter—another example of the value of perseverance when dealing with the media.

An article on the religion page of the Prescott, Arizona, Courier effectively combined a number of publicity themes. The article, accompanied by a photograph, focused primarily on the presentation of the peace statement to the Prescott city council. It also included significant information about the persecution of Iranian Baha’is, President Reagan’s remarks on the occasion of Human Rights Day, and even mentioned the meaning and nature of the Baha’ fast.

The Baha’is of Plano, Texas, were able to publicize their Year of Peace activities for free. A peace symposium, which they plan to hold in September in conjunction with the Texas Sesquicentennial, was listed on a flyer sent to every household in Plano along with each utility bill. The symposium will be advertised throughout the year as one of the events being held in Plano’s celebration of the sesquicentennial, fulfilling a long-cherished goal of the Spiritual Assembly of Plano to bring the word ‘Baha’i”’ to every household in the city.

The Greater Austin (Texas) Bahá’í Public Information Office strengthened its relationship with local peace-related groups by sending a letter to each one detailing Year of Peace activities. The letter briefly introduces the Faith and advertises Baha’i events of interest to others who are working for peace. It concludes with an uplifting statement of hope and a commitment to serve humanity, as well as a promise to continue sending information about relevant peace activities. This is a wonderful example of a simple way in which to foster unity and build relationships in your community.

The Baha’is of Virginia Beach, Virginia, were the subject of a feature article on the religion page of The Virginian-Pilot and The Ledger-Star. The article, which was accompanied by a large photograph, notes that “Baha’i’s foreign-sounding name might make Americans a little wary, but it carries many of the basic beliefs of traditional religions. It is Catholic, Baptist, Methodist, Presbyterian, Jewish and all others rolled up into one religion that claims to be none of these.’”

A short article and three large pictures of the Louhelen Baha’i School filled three-quarters of a page in the ‘‘Lifestyles” section of a February issue of The Davison (Michigan) Flagstaff. The article describes the various ways in which the school’s facilities are used for retreats and conferences by a wide variety of organizations as well as for Baha’ residential college programs. The photographs included a portrait of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

The peace presentation kits, one for general purpose use and one adapted for the media, have arrived from the printer! More than 800 orders have already been shipped to communities across the country. Both kits feature a working copy of the peace statement and three pamphlets. Two of the pamphlets provide factual information about the Faith and answer some of the most basic anticipated questions about the statement and the Baha’i role in creating peace. The other is a reprint of the article about the Faith which appeared in the Encyclopedia Britannica. The media kit version contains a 5x7-inch black and white glossy photograph of the Seat of the Universal House of Justice and the Baha’i House of Worship in Wilmette and a sample press release that can be adapted to publicize formal presentations. The media kit is $3.50; the multi-pupose kit is $2. Either can be ordered through the Baha’i Distribution Service. To place your order, phone 1-800-3231880.

&) we

The Baha’i Public Information Network is comprised of individuals who are excited about being the advance guard for the nation’s teaching efforts.

If you are interested in serving the Faith in this capacity, but are hesitating because you don’t feel you have the skills or experience, hesitate no longer!

Most members of the network are people whose only previous exposure to the media has been as consumers.

While one member of our network is a technical director with the ABC television network, most have backgrounds unrelated to the media: chiropractors, homemakers, farmers, business executives, and fire fighters are all doing the work with gratifying success.

These Public Information representatives (PI reps), appointed by Assemblies or Groups, make use of the myriad opportunities that come their way.

Some opportunities, such as the various Baha’i Holy Days, occur regularly. Publishing a press release for a Holy Day or special event day serves as a great proclamation tool that helps to educate the public about different aspects of the Faith.

The Baha’i Public Information Network was formed originally in response to the need to bring the plight of the Iranian Baha’is to the attention of the world. News of persecutions is immediately written up and distributed as a national press release to media across the country through this network of PI reps.

In addition, PI reps get the word out about activities planned by their Assemblies or Groups. Local celebrations of UN-related events, of commemorative holidays such as Martin Luther King Jr. Day, or of peace symposia rely on the thorough and efficient work of Public Information reps for their ultimate success.

Coverage ranges from simple community service announcements of firesides appearing in biweekly circulars to paid ads, feature articles in metropolitan dailies, TV news spots and radio

Information director Shirley Lee honored by National Assembly

On Friday, March 28, Shirley Lee, former National Public Information coordinator, was honored by the National Spiritual Assembly for her contribution to the Office of Public Information over the last five years, especially her role as department head from 1983-86.

Ms. Lee, who left the National Center to join her sister’s real estate firm in Bradenton, Florida, guided the formation of the Baha’i Public Information Network as it grew from 550 reps to a multifaceted organization of 900 reps, 90 public information consultants and about 130 media committees.

The American Baha’i / May 1986 / 23

Public Information Network serves as ‘advance guard’ for U.S. teaching

talk shows. The unique nature of the Faith often makes even the most simple event worthy of media coverage.

Here’s how to plug in to the Bahá’í Public Information Network:

Local Assemblies and Groups appoint reps annually at Ridvan. Isolated believers are also welcome to join the network by applying directly to the Office of Public Information at the National Center.

A light green form for registering each rep upon appointment was included in this year’s Ridvan election mailing. We urge every Baha’i community to make sure this important post is filled. Use the coupon below to join now!

This office stands ready to train and help motivate all the members of our network, as well as to provide both print and audio-visual materials, guidance and consultation, and general all-around support.

All of the media materials are easy to use, and most are ready to go once local information has been inserted.

Tentative plans are being made

in this office for renewing our program of media conferences this year. Similar conferences often are sponsored regionally by groups of interested Assemblies.

These conferences are excellent opportunities to learn more about the interesting and challenging world of media work.

How does all this amount to being “‘the advance guard for the nation’s teaching efforts’? Every time a person hears the word ‘‘Baha’i,”’ it increases his awareness of the Faith, and so cultivates the soil in which a seed of understanding can be sown.

We all know how different it is to talk about the Faith to someone who at least recognizes the name compared to someone who has never heard it before.

As a PI rep, you can be directly responsible for cultivating the kind of receptivity in the people of your community that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá encouraged when He said, “Until the soil is prepared, it cannot receive the benefit of plant We certainly look forward to having you join the network! _

___ My Assembly needs a PI rep appointment form. Send it to:

Name

Address

And I want to be a PI rep: Name

Address

1.D. No.

Phone (home)

! I ! I ! I I live in a Group locality ___ I am an isolated believer : I ! I ! I I I

(work)

Note: please send only one appointment form per rep. Do not complete this coupon if your Baha’i community has already registered you. Send to: Office of Public Information, Baha’i Na- I

Ltional Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

Many presentations of peace statement lead to groundswell of publicity for Faith

A groundswell of publicity for the Faith is being generated by the continuing presentations of the peace statement to leaders of thought in every area of society.

The Spiritual Assembly of Ventura County, California, recently held a gala dinner/dance and sent elegant formal invitations to elected officials in the county and executives of the local media.

Nineteen tables of nine people each seated 198 attendees, and each special guest and his or her spouse was presented a copy of the peace statement and a certificate of appreciation.

The event was given front-page coverage in the ‘‘People’’ section of the most widely read paper in the county.

Every invited guest said it was the best party he or she had ever attended. It was a wonderful reaching-out on the part of the Baha’i community.

Several presentations to members of Congress have garnered additional coverage.

The Baha’is of Olean, New York, approached the Olean Times-Herald with a press release

about their coming presentation to Rep. Stanley Lundine and asked about the possibility of having a photographer present at the ceremony.

They were told that the paper had a policy of not taking photographs of presentations, and so returned home with hopes for only a small mention.

The following day, the paper published an article that went well beyond the scope of the press release by quoting the opening paragraphs of the peace statement.

Later, when the Baha’is arrived at the Congressman’s office, a reporter was there to take a photograph for the newspaper’s religion page. Many people have since commented about the photograph to various Baha’is.

In Peoria, Illinois, the presentation to Congressman Robert Michel attracted coverage from two radio and one television station.

The Baha’is of Scottsdale, Arizona, video taped their presentation for possible use as an instruc See PUBLICITY page 26 [Page 24]24 / The American Baha’i / May 1986

Trail of Light warms hearts on California tour

NATIVE AMERICANS

Between January 8-15, the Trail of Light, a team composed of Native Americans, presented cultural programs and copies of the peace statement while warming hearts

Ohio Baha’i named planner by Shawnees

Tula Nappe (Cora M. Watters), a Baha’i from Lynx, Ohio, has been named the first educational program planner for the Shawnee Nation,. United Remnant Band.

She is developing a comprehensive educational program for children and adults in the tribe, Which numbers more than 600 members.

She is also responsible for developing the first tribal dictionary of Archaic Shawnee, which is expected to be available sometime this summer.

A second book including recipes, planting information, gathering of natural foods, herbs found in the wild, sweat lodges and other information from intertribal sources is nearing completion.

Mrs. Watters, who teaches music, art, cheerleading and journalism at a school for the mentally handicapped in Adams County, and also writes a weekly newspaper column, has performed with her daughters as ‘‘Watters and Daughters’? at the Baha’i Youth Conference last July in Columbus, Ohio, and at a special program on Native Americans last fall at the Baha’i House of Worship.

from the Hupa Reservation in Northern California to the Tuli Reservation in the central part of the state.

The Trail of Light team—Kevin, Dorothy and daughter Waniya Locke (Lakota) from South Dakota, Felix Charging Whirlwind Jr. (Lakota) from Seattle, Maynard Eakin (Alaskan Eskimo) from British Columbia, and Frankie Spencer (Navajo) from Arizona—touched the hearts of many people who are eagerly awaiting the return of the Trail of Light.

Stops along the tour included Eureka High School; a packed house at a Eureka Methodist church; performances on the Tuolumne Rancheria; a presentation in North Fork at the invitation of the North Fork Mono Museum; an assembly program at Sierra High School in Tollhouse; another at Cal State University, Fresno; a social get-together with the Hmong in Porterville, and a final program at the Tuli Reservation.

By far the highlight of the visit was the time spent with the Miwok Indians on the Tuolumne Rancheria.

This special day began with a luncheon for the team and local Baha’is prepared by families on the Rancheria.

Soon after, large numbers of people started to arrive. In spite of the fact that the Baha’is were given only three days’ notice as to the Trail of Light’s performance and that the public would be invited, by the time the 3 o’clock program got under way about 150 people were present.

Following an introduction by Council Chairman Dennis Hendticks, the entire audience in

Mary Many Beads (right) and her daughter, Bessie Begay, talk as they wait for others to gather for

prayers in the prayer hogan before the Feast of Dominion in February.

Friends in Dinnebito, Arizona, observe Feast of Dominion at home of Begays

The Feast of Dominion was held February 9 in Dinnebito, Arizona, at the home of Harry and Bessie Begay.

After a delicious dinner of mutton stew, bean stews, fry bread, corn bread and cake, the friends went to the family’s traditional hogan for prayers.

The prayer hogan is a lovely structure made of small logs and adobe where all traditional cere monies are held.

Robert Silas shared a long and beautiful prayer, as did other Baha’is. The friends proposed that at the next Feast there should be a deepening on ‘‘the power of the Greatest Name”’ or on “‘the local Spiritual Assembly.”

Tapes in the Navajo language on these topics are available from the Native American Baha’i Institute.

A member of the Trail of Light teaching team makes a presenta cluding babies, children and adults was captivated for the next several hours by the Trail of Light’s presentation.

The director of a nearby alcohol and drug recovery center informally asked that the Trail of Light give a presentation at the center that evening. In his optimism that they would say yes, he had already spread the word that the Trail of Light would be coming and that everyone was invited.

On arriving at the Serenity of Sonora Center, the team found more than 40 people waiting. After dinner, the Trail of Light presented a program of personal experiences, music and prayer.

The director was delighted to have hosted the Trail of Light, and noted how the audience had been ‘‘deeply affected’? and how “unusual’’ the presentation had been.

Results of the tour included many warmed hearts, expressions of gratitude such as ‘‘this visit of

House of Justice asks aid to update properties records

In a letter dated February 27, 1986, the Universal House of Justice asked for help in updating its records on properties.

To facilitate this request, self-addressed return postcards have been mailed to all local Spiritual Assemblies and Groups in the U.S. inquiring as to whether they own property or lease property on a long-term basis (one year or more).

Those Assemblies and Groups that reply in the affirmative will be sent a questionnaire on which to supply some details about their properties,

The Universal House of Justice has asked that this project be completed by July 1. If your Assembly or Group has not received its preliminary postcard and has property, please contact NSA Properties Inc., Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312-256-6552) so that this process can be completed in a timely manner.

tion during the group’s week-long tour in January through northern

the Trail of Light was the most successful undertaking in the area,’’ newspaper coverage including pictures of performances and excerpts from the peace statement, some new believers, and recommendations about how to

and central California.

make the next Trail of Light tour even more successful.

The Baha’is in Northern California are still receiving calls and seeing enthusiasm that can be directly attributed to the January visit of the Trail of Light.

UN representative attends peace meeting

Shiva Tavana, the National Spiritual Assembly’s representative to the United Nations in New York, was among the guests at a peace meeting March 5 sponsored by the New York City midtown chapter of Pax Christi, the Catholic International Peace Movement, which is a non-governmental organization at the UN.

About 50 people including three Baha’is attended the event.

Ms. Tavana gave a clear and concise summary of Baha’i principles, especially as they relate to world peace, read a prayer for mankind by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, and lit seven ‘‘candles of unity’’ while members of the audience called out the name of a continent as each candle was lighted.

The pastor then lit a taller candie representing “‘unity of the world.””

pLnins

“\ s

J “,

PEACE THROUGH The Covenant GUEST SPEAKER

Mr.Nathan Rutstein

PRE-REGISTRATION FORM

C oie "

ge

UNITY FEAST IN THE SACRED BLACK HILLS OF SOUTH DAKOTA

Addcoas: No. of Adults:___No. of Children __ No. of days attending:

arrival tine!!! Possible phone numbers: Mail BEFORE June 1, 1986 to :

For help with transportation from Rapid City to Camp Site you mst pre-register with (605~342-3562 or 605-343-1054 Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of Rapid City

Box 565 Rapid City, $.D. 57709

[Page 25]

Resolution

from page 1

cooperate with the Special Representative, and in particular to permit him to visit the country.

The issue of Iran’s cooperation with the Special Representative was the theme of behind-thescenes negotiations which took place throughout the Commission’s six-week session. Iran, which for four years has not cooperated with the Commission and has not allowed a visit to Iran, offered to cooperate but on terms that were not acceptable to the Western countries which have led the struggle to improve the human rights situation in Iran.

The conditions imposed by Iran on the negotiations were also not accepted by the Commission, which, despite skillful attempts by Iran’s representatives to confuse the Commission, adopted the resolution by a clear and decisive majority (19 votes in favor, four opposed, 16 abstentions). Four countries did not take part in the vote.

During the debate on human rights violations which preceded the vote on the resolution, many delegations had expressed concern about the human rights situation in Iran including the situation of the Baha’is. Delegations that specifically drew attention to the Baha’is in their statements were Australia, Canada, France, Ireland, Norway and the United States.

The co-sponsors of the resolution— Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany (Federal Republic), Ireland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway and the United Kingdom—clearly indicated their sympathy with, and support for, the Baha’is of Iran by including the reference to the Baha’is in the most important paragraph of the resolution, namely the one that asks the Special Representative to report to the General Assembly.

N.C. Summer School slated at Pembroke

The 1986 North Carolina Baha’i Summer School will be held June 27-July 3 at Pembroke State University.

The school theme is ‘‘Working Toward Peace.”

For information, contact the registrars, Dawn and Chuck Egerton, Durham, NC 27705, or phone 919471-8013.

During consideration of the draft resolution at the Commission’s meeting on the evening of March 12, Iran made a determined attempt to confuse the Commission and to convince its members that it wished to cooperate but that some intransigent Western members had turned aside its offers to cooperate.

The substance of Iran’s offer to cooperate was based on an agreement that a representative sympathetic to its position would be appointed. The representative would be allowed to visit Iran and report back to the Commission in favorable terms. Other conditions of Iran’s cooperation were that the resolution appointing the new representative would be purely procedural in nature, would not refer to the resolutions previously adopted by the Commission (the validity of such resolutions having already been rejected by Iran in public statements and in a letter to the chairman of the Commission), and would make no reference to allegations of human rights violations of any kind.

This was unacceptable to the co-sponsors of the draft resolution, who insisted that there could be no such preconditions. The cosponsors were satisfied that the chairman of the Commission would, in accordance with normal Practice, appoint an individual who would be objective, impartial and of recognized international standing. Any such person, in order to discharge his mandate, would insist on access to prisons and other places (a condition that would probably not be acceptable to Iran). In fact, an attempt by the United Kingdom to negotiate a procedural resolution welcoming the offer by Iranian authorities to cooperate was rejected by Iran’s ambassador as insulting and impossible.

These issues were discussed as the resolution was being considered. After three statements by Iran, aided by Algeria, Bangladesh and Syria, and interspersed with comments by the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Norway, the Netherlands, Ireland, India, Senegal, Belgium and the Federal Republic of Germany, the vote was taken on the draft resolution proposed by the sponsors.

The draft resolution was adopted, without any amendment, as Commission on Human. Rights resolution 1986/41. After its adoption, Brazil, which had not found it possible to vote in favor of the resolution, made a statement indicating that it nev

Huntsville to host S.E. Youth Conference

A Southeastern Regional Youth Conference will be held June 18-22 at Alabama A&M University in Huntsville.

The speakers will include Counsellor Wilma Brady; Soo Fouts, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly; Roy Jones, director of the Louis Gregory Baha’i Institute; Smokey Ferguson, a member of the National Youth Committee; and Ellen McAllister and Carey Murphy, coordinators of South Carolina’s Project Tabarsi.

The six-theme conference will seek to develop the spiritual life of youth; to increase their understanding of the Baha’i plan for world peace and the new Six Year

. Plan; and to put their faith into

action, especially by breaking down estrangement between the races.

Through a ‘‘careers fair’? and workshops on college and career planning, youth will be encouraged to develop skills they can use in the workplace as a service to others.

Also planned is a trip to the Space and Rocket Museum at NASA’s Flight Center in Huntsville.

Conference planners are still seeking musicians, performers and vendors who wish to sell merchandise at the conference.

To register, contact Carol Hogue, - Huntsville, AL 35802.

ertheless feels that the Commission should consider the situation in Iran, try to ascertain the facts and ask that a thorough analysis be presented to it at some future time.

Iran rejected the resolution as a worthless piece of paper and indicated that those countries which feared that Iran’s fundamentalist

The American Baha’i / May 1986 / 25

revolution would spread had produced the resolution for political motives. Iran’s delegation assured the Commission that the Islamic revival was very much alive among. Muslims and that they would not be deterred.

The Baha’i International Community, in addition to its efforts to defend the interests of the Ba ha’fs in Iran, made an extensive contribution to the other work of the Commission, actively participating in many agenda items including those dealing with racism, rights of the child, the right to development, religious intolerance, torture, the rights of minorities, and the promotion and protection of human rights.

Ads

from page 17

Louhelen Baha’i School. These attractive, wallet-sized cards can be used by Assemblies, District Teaching Committees and parents to strengthen children’s sense of Baha’i identity. Cost: $1 for 15, $2 for 30, $3 for 50. Payment by check, VISA or MasterCard. Write to ‘‘Reflections,”” 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423, or phone 313-653-5033.

BACK ISSUES of Child’s Way (remember that?) and Brilliant Star magazine are available. Help us clean out our stockroom. $1.50 per issue for Child’s Way, $2 for Brilliant Star. Stipulate which issues you want. Deals for larger orders are possible. Complete your library, or donate them to a Baha’i school to be used as a resource. Write to Brilliant Star, Suburban Office Park, 5010 Austin Road, Hixson, TN 37343.

WANTED

A BAHA’t history of Fauquier County, Virginia, is being compiled by the Spiritual Assembly of that county. Included are the towns of Warrenton, The Plains, Remington and Summerduck. Information about former residents, teaching projects, or pioneering in the area would be greatly appreciated. Write to Beverly Hunsaker, - _ Marshall, VA 22115.

WOULD like to buy any one or all of these filmstrips for teaching purposes: Birds of a Feather; Carmel, Mountain of God; Out of God’s Eternal Ocean and The Bahá’ís and the Holy Land. Must be in good condition. Write to D. Wittekind, Richland, WA 99352.

AMERICAN Baha’ calligrapher seeks examples in other lan guages of the words ‘‘peace”’ and “unity” for a major calligraphic work of art commemorating the International Year of Peace. The word ‘‘peace’’ should be defined as ‘‘the Most Great Peace,”’ as set forth by Bahd’u’ll4h. Words should be written in corresponding script for each language, not translated to western script. The artist hopes to include most languages on the planet in the work, and seeks addresses of other international Baha’i publications for this inquiry. Please send correspondence to Ginny Mair Harry,

Allentown, PA 18102.

VOLUNTEER workers are needed at the Louhelen Baha’i School for landscaping and grounds projects, carpentry projects, and major office projects planned for the late spring and summer. Louhelen is seeking a few volunteers to stay at the school during conference sessions and help with these projects. Room and meals provided. For more information or to express your interest, please write to the Louhelen Baha’i School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423.

INDEXES to Brilliant Star magazine to facilitate the use of each year’s issues are available for $2 each. Write to Brilliant Star, c/o Janet Richards,

Yardville, NJ 08620. Please be clear about which year’s index you would like.

WRITERS are needed to contribute essays for two books in the Circle of Unity series from Kalimat Press: Circle of Harmony: The Challenge of Diversity and Circle of Spirit: The Arts and Community. Both books require individuals with experience and knowledge in the field who are willing to research the Writings and relevant materials to produce well-rounded, fresh essays. Circle of Harmony will concentrate on

the issue of race unity including black-white, Hispanic and Native American, while Circle of Spirit will offer those with a creative bent to explore the arts, music and literature in light of the Baha’i teachings. Please send completed manuscripts of 7-10 pages (double-spaced) to Michael Fitzgerald,

Winchester, VA 22601.

WANTED: Anecdotes about confirmations received in the Faith for a book on the subject. No names used if desired. To be in first-person only—amusing, amazing, dramatic, etc. Write to Paloma Joye,

Ridgefield Park, NJ 07660.

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

BRILLIANT Star magazine needs articles, stories, photographs, and children’s letters and pictures. Send to Brilliant Star, Suburban Office Park, 5010 Austin Road, Hixson, TN 37343.

HELP strengthen the Baha’i identity of new believers in Guatemala. Collect and send your community’s last years pictorial Baha’ calendars. We will cut off the pictures and give them to new Baha’ is to put on the walls of their homes. Send to: Carson family, er Centro Nacional de la Fe Ba Guatemala Central America.

Se

Foreword, appendix, glossary, references, bibliography, index.

Hardcover $160 softcover 3895

Here is the most comprehensive compilation to date of the Baha’i writings on peace.

312 pages, 504 excerpts from the Baha’i writings, beginning with the peace statement by the Universal House of Justice and concluding with prayers for peace.

wy tO The possibilities for using it in proclamation, teaching, and deepening are endless Order through your local librarian, or send check or money order (including 10% for postage and handling, minimum $1.50) to:

Baha’i Distribution Service 415 LINDEN AVENUE, WILMETTE, IL 60091 © TEL. 1-800-323-1880

• Price valid only in the United States

[Page 26]26 / The American Baha’i / May 1986

Peace statement given to L.A. Mayor Bradley

Mayor Tom Bradley was the guest of honor March 22 at a gala banquet sponsored by the Baha’i community of Los Angeles, California.

More than 650 people were present for the event at which Mayor Bradley and 27 other special guests were presented copies of ‘‘The Promise of World Peace,” the statement to the peoples of the world from the Universal House of Justice.

The introductions of the mayor and other recipients were offered by Judge James F. Nelson, chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly, and Judge Dorothy W. Nelson, treasurer of the National Assembly.

Among the other honored guests from civic, religious and peace movements were Assemblywoman Maxine Waters; a representative from the office of Con gressman Augustus Hawkins; Los Angeles City Councilman Marvin Braude; Rabbi Paul Dubin; Mark Ridley-Thomas, executive vicepresident of the Southern Christian Leadership Council; Khalida Samad (Islamic Center of Southern California); Dr. Cecil Murray (African Methodist Episcopal Church); Lucky Altman (National Conference of Christians and Jews); and the Rev. Cyril Loeb (Archdiocese of the Greek Orthodox Church).

Also present were educational figures from the local religious community, Sister Magdalen Coughlin (Mount St. Mary’s College) and Dr. Mark Matthews (California Lutheran College), and leaders in the peace movement including Kaz Suyeishi, vicepresident of the Committee of Atomic Bomb Survivors; Emily Stewart (Alliance for Survival);

‘We Cannot Fail Them...’ campaign on the road again in Caribbean area

The ‘‘We Cannot Fail Them ...’’ musical travel teaching campaign in the Caribbean is back on the road again.

Last year’s campaign, initiated by the Continental Board of Counselors and inspired by the Costa Rica music conference in February 1985, saw traveling teachers, groups and individuals,

Publicity from page 23

tional tape for other Assemblies who are just now gearing up to make their own presentations.

In Flagstaff, Arizona, freezing temperatures last December 10 couldn’t keep 30 people away from a genuinely public presentation—the peace statement was given to the entire community. The event received extensive television coverage as the local tie-in to President Reagan’s Human Rights Day address.

The opportunities for publicity are great. The Office of Public Information extends its heartiest congratulations to all of you who are working so hard to take advantage of them!

For Informacion Contaet: Pema em Tat

UR RNa SSE

go to a wide range of Caribbean countries including Antigua, French Guiana, Guadaloupe, Guyana, Haiti, Martinique, Puerto Rico and Suriname.

In addition, several people were directed to Central and South America where their trips were coordinated by others.

The Counselors, delighted by the results of last year’s campaign, have asked for a second campaign which again would honor the memory of the persecuted Baha’ is in Iran.

They have asked that the campaign coordinator continue the search for dedicated souls with musical talents who can be helped to use their invaluable skills to proclaim the Faith through music in the Caribbean.

Teaching in the Caribbean is a heartwarming experience because of the great impact music has in stimulating the Baha’i community and in proclaiming the Faith.

The friendliness of the people in that area, their openness to the Teachings, the accessibility of the media, the opportunities for learning about other cultures and for consulting on effective teaching plans, all make travel teaching in the Caribbean an exciting way to serve the Cause.

Those who are interested in finding out about the campaign should contact Gregory P. Meyjes, coordinator, “We Cannot Fail Them ...,” - Chapel Hill, NC 27514 (phone 919-929-9282) or Martha Patrick, secretary,

Durham, NC 27707 (phone 919-489-2918).

Thousands of people were reached last year through the musical proclamation events of the campaign.

Through the participation of even more people, we can make the present campaign an even greater tribute to our brothers and sisters in Iran. “We Cannot Fail Them ...””

Baha’i National Center Office Hours 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

(Central Time) Monday-Friday

Phone 312-869-9039

Mary Lou Jenson (Harbor Area Peace Committee); Susan Anspach (peace activist and spokesperson for Amnesty International); Beatrice Hirano (Asian Pacific Americans for Nuclear Awareness); the Rev. Leland Stewart (Unity & Diversity Council); Michael Elley (L.A. Positive Future Center); and Walker Bush (United Nations Association of Los Angeles).

In his address to the banquet, Mayor Bradley recited from memory the words of Baha’u’llah and excerpts from the peace statement, and recalled fondly his meeting with the members of the Universal House of Justice in Haifa, Israel, and visits to various Baha’i schools and conferences in this country.

He expressed his appreciation to the Baha’is for their dedication to the cause of peace, and his high regard for the community in practicing and promoting the oneness of mankind.

Included in the banquet was a performance by the Los Angeles Baha’i Youth Workshop and an audio-visual presentation that served as a backdrop for excerpts from the peace statement.

The mistress of ceremonies was Muhtadia Rice.

Mayor Tom Bradley of Los Angeles, California, is pictured at a banquet March 22 sponsored by the Baha’is of Los Angeles at which he and 27 other special guests received copies of ‘The

Promise of World Peace.’ With him are Khalida Samad (center) of the Islamic Center of Southern California and Judge Dorothy W. Nelson, treasurer of the National Spiritual Assembly.

Universal language is topic on two-state tour

More than 530 people learned about the need for a universal auxiliary language as a result of a February speaking tour by Roan Orloff Stone, a Baha’i from Gallup, New Mexico, that included stops in seven communities in southwestern Colorado and northern New Mexico.

The tour was coordinated by the Spiritual Assembly of Durango, Colorado, as a public service and indirect teaching effort, the third of its peace projects since last Ridvan.

Mrs. Stone, an internationally known Esperantist, spoke at 14 meetings to Baha’i and non-Bahai audiences during a 10-day tour that began February 5.

Her topics included the need for a universal language as one of the foundations of world peace; Esperanto, the international language; and the relationship between Esperanto and the Faith.

She spoke to two elementary

school classes, eight high school classes and one college language club, gave three public lectures, taught one free sample Esperanto lesson, and talked to three Baha’i groups.

Included in her itinerary were Cortez, Dolores, Mancos and Durango, Colorado, and Fruitland and Taos, New Mexico.

Advance publicity included media, mailings and personal i vitations. Results included an article in an Esperanto newsletter, two radio interviews and one newspaper interview.

The book Lidia, a biography by Wendy Heller of Lidia Zamenhoff, the Baha’i daughter of the founder of Esperanto, was placed by the Baha’is in three libraries.

Mrs. Stone, who has been an Esperantist speaker, teacher and translator since 1935, and is a founder and present secretary of the Baha’i Esperanto League (BEL), was a friend of Lidia Za

About 35 people attended a receni Peace Conference sponsored by the Baha’is of Olathe, Kansas, whose featured speaker was Juana Conrad, a member of the National Teaching Committee and founder and president of Women

Le Sor International Peace and Arbitration. Pictured is one of several workshops in which participants discussed various ways that individuals can work for peace at the grassroots level.

menhoff and is mentioned many times in her biography.

Her activities in each community were planned and sponsored by its local Baha’i Group or Assembly with each community providing hospitality and expenses.

The Durango Assembly’s Community Extension Committee, chaired by Fred Chavez, a member of the Baha’i Group of LaPlata County, spent two months planning and coordinating Mrs. Stone’s tour in consultation with nearby Groups and Assemblies.

PRESCOTT MAYOR GIVEN STATEMENT

On Tuesday, March 11, the Baha’is of Prescott, Arizona, presented copies of ‘‘The Promise of World Peace’? to Mayor Jerri Wagner and members of the Prescott city council during its regular monthly session.

As a result, an article and photo appeared three days later in the Prescott Courier.

Answers to crossword puzzle ACROSS DOWN 1. Growth 1. Global 4. Reaps 2. Right 9. Light 3.0G 10. Mlap 5. Emancipation 11. Og 6. All 12. Equal 7. Pa 13. Attain 8. Spirit 15. Hr 12. Etb 16. At 13. Aft 17. Fabric 14. Tao 18. Eto 15. Humanity 19. Mt 18. Educate 22. Blurb 20. Create 25. Ria 21. Wings 27. Sent 22. Bahai 28. Tr 23. Laws 29. Astr 2A. Rear 30. Ptso 26. Bird 31. Yd 30. Pg 32. Age 33. No [Page 27]

10 YEARS AGO

In the wake of a new spirit of enthusiasm and service generated at District Teaching Conferences held March 27, hundreds of teaching projects are under way throughout the country.

Excitement mounts as volunteers from almost all of the conferences arise to pursue the goals, holding proclamations, public meetings and other teaching events.

A cable from the Universal House of Justice to the National Spiritual Assémbly reads: ‘‘Fervently supplicating Holy Threshold beseeching Concourse on high stimulate strengthen participants countrywide teaching conferences enable them embark strenuous campaign attract multitudes as yet unaware teachings Bahd’u’ll4h. Assure you and American Baha’i community our loving prayers.””

The National Assembly urges the believers to “‘seize the shimmering chance for heroic attainment which the Five Year Plan holds before us, and which every individual must now forthrightly address.” ...

Eight members of the Spiritual Assembly of Pomona, California, make plans to leave in the summer for overseas pioneering posts.

One member explains that the inspiring words of the Hand of the Cause of God Rahmatu’ll4h Muhájir have prompted the move, although pioneering is ‘‘something we’ve all discussed, have all been interested in.’”

After their departure, the Pomona community will still have more than 15 members. ...

In the presence of Gov. James B. Edwards of South Carolina, famed jazz musician Dizzy Gillespie, a native of that state, receives a plaque from the South Carolina Arts Commission.

Mr. Gillespie responds by identifying himself as a Baha’i, “full of hope for America as it honors its Bicentennial.” ...

The Baha’is of Joliet, Illinois, form their Spiritual Assembly during a visit February 14 by the Hand of the Cause of God Zikru’lláh Khadem.

The new Assembly is a special fruit of a statewide teaching conference held in that city November 1-2, 1975. Now the goal of the Assembly is to increase the number of adults in the city to 15 for incorporation. It already has two goal areas and is sending teachers into one of them ...

Tennessee Baha’is make their first contribution to the reinvigorated Southern teaching work with a direct-teaching project February 14 in Chattanooga. The effort is sponsored by the newly formed Spiritual Assembly of

The Spiritual Assembly of Akron, Ohio, makes February a proclamation month, sponsoring a library display and art contest for children at a branch of the city’s public library near the Ba+ha’{ Center.

Martha McLachan, chairman of the Assembly, arranges the window display which features a Baha’i quotation, travel books, and four handmade dolls representing children from Panama, Algeria, Vietnam and Kenya.

Letters

from page 3

peace are assured.

Certainly, by the time Dr. Henderson finished his half-hour talk, the Baha’is of Philadelphia, Cheltenham, and Elizabethtown, New Jersey, were beaming with light and optimism.

We are so happy that Dr. Hendetson came to speak to us, and happier still that he took the time to talk to our beautiful youth.

With the energy he shared, the

Helen (Curley) LaVey, a wellknown nursing educator in Massachusetts and a Bahá’í since 1939, died March 1 in Brookline. She had served on the Spiritual Assemblies of Boston, Cambridge and Brookline, and since 1965 as administrator of the Baha’i Faith Information Service of metropolitan Boston. In 1966 she became the originator and director of the Massachusetts Bahá’í Public Library Project, and was also a researcher and author of articles on the history of the Faith and custodian of the Massachusetts state archives. During her professional career, Mrs. LaVey served as educational director and director at several schools of nursing in Massachusetts and was directly or indirectly concerned with the education of well over 6,000 nursing students. She was a founding member of ODWIN (Opening the Doors Wider in Nursing), a committee of the Boston University School of Nursing dedicated to helping the underprivileged, especially members of minority groups, to enter nursing.

love that his visit released, and the insights that his tongue articulated, we will be able to march with confidence toward the challenge of teaching the Cause and spreading the fragrance of world peace to everyone we meet. Teaching Committee of the Baha’is of Philadelphia

To the Editor:

As Baha’is, we do not take part in factional or partisan politics, but we can do a service to our communities and fellow citizens if we will, as individuals, request of the media balanced and reasonable coverage of important issues.

How often do we hear on radio or television or see in the newspaper such emotion-eliciting phrases as ‘‘Marxist X’’ or ‘‘democratic forces of Y”’ or “‘Communist-backed Z’’? Too often.

These descriptive modifiers serve to oversimplify complex problems and reduce the public’s response, by slanted slogans, to an emotional reflex, replacing an active investigation of what constitutes the truth.

As Baha’is, we have a responsibility to be thoughtful citizens of the civil administrative units in which we live. We can be of service by asking our local mediaby letter, phone call or postcardto give us coverage that is free from emotion-keying epithets and that, moreover, is not simpli: but penetrating, skeptical and balanced.

I propose that you let your local station and newspaper know that you expect this of them.

John Ives Albany, California

To the Editor:

Nearly two years ago I attended a conference for District Teaching Committee members at which the forthcoming new believers’ packet was introduced by Juana Conrad.

At the time, I felt that the idea of a packet of books and pamphlets for new believers was a good one, but I had no idea how profoundly it would affect my own life.

That fall, our 15-year-old adopted son declared his belief in Baha’u’ lah.

He comes from a background in which he was severely beaten. He was 12 when he was removed from that home, and 14 when he entered ours. Although he is slow academically and reads at about a third grade level, he is the most loving human being in the world.

His declaration card was buried

Georgine Moul, who pioneered to Alaska, Samoa, Guam, dies at post in Hawaii

“‘Hearts saddened news passing

dearly loved Georgine Moul. Her ‘oted services as pioneer Alas ka, Samoa, Guam and her contributions to work Hawaiian Baha’i community add lustre her long and devoted record service Faith.

“Offering loving prayers Holy Shrines progress her immortal soul. Kindly convey Pat Moul and other members family heartfelt condolences.

Universal House of Justice’ °

Inspired by the International Baha’i Conference in Chicago in 1953, Robert and Georgine Moul decided to pioneer to Alaska, a goal of the Ten Year Crusade.

While there, they served to open two virgin goal cities. The

National Assembly of Alaska called them ‘‘devoted, knowledgeable and talented believers.”

Their knowledge of Baha’i administration and their qualities of devotion as teachers marked them as valuable pioneers at any pioneering post.

In 1970 the Mouls, with their three children, pioneered to Western Samoa, a goal of the Nine Year Plan. After about four years there, they pioneered to Guam, and in 1978 moved to Hawaii.

With a lifetime of service to the Cause behind her, Georgine Moul died on Naw-Rúz day after a courageous battle against cancer. She is buried in the Baha’i Garden of Light section of the Hawaiian Memorial Cemetery.

The American Baha’i / May 1986 / 27

by accident among some papers and was not sent to National until last fall. As a result, he received his membership card and a new believer packet just before his 16th birthday (which was celebrated at the Bosch school).

You can’t imagine the impact it has had on him, and therefore, on all of us.

He had become a Baha’i because he thought Baha’is were “great” (a favorite expression of his). In consultation with the District Teaching Committee, we agreed that not much more was required and that our son, like all of us, had a lot to learn.

The arrival of the book with his name inscribed inside transformed him. He carried it everywhere, insisted on nightly family readings, and read aloud, strugglingly, every night from his new book.

He became interested in asking more and more questions about the Faith and discussing its various aspects. He has difficulty with abstract concepts and learning new things, but he has been truly enkindled by the gift of that book, as we have been enkindled by the gift of having him.

The most difficult week of his life occurred when he left the book at a friend’s house and it had to be returned by mail.

Thank you so much for this

special experience. This is a marvelous program, and I hope it continues for all new believers for many years to come.

Name withheld by request

Rahim Samadani, a life-long Bahá’í, former pioneer with his family to Argentina and Spain, and member of the Spiritual Assembly of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, died February 4. He was 78 years old. Mr. Samadani, who came to the U.S. in 1974 with his wife, Behereh, and their three children, was known for his deep knowledge of the Bahá’í writings, and served also as community librarian.

IN MEMORIAM

Christine Anderson Spartanburg, SC

Mildred Holmes Kokomo, IN

Emma Taylor Ferris, TX

March 3, 1986 February 27, 1986 Date Unknown William Atwater Hattie Houser Katherine Thompson Birmingham, AL Elloree, SC Tualatin, OR January 31, 1986 Date Unknown Date Unknown Martha Baker Joseph Houser Rubie Tuttle Urbana, IL Elloree, SC Peterborough, NH February 7, 1986 Date Unknown February 25, 1986 Willie Barnes Apolonia Jaquez Levy Wade Leesville, SC San Luis, CO Alamogordo, NM Date Unknown 1985 Date Unknown Cameron Bell Helen LaVey Jacob Warren Jr. Godwin, NC Chestnut, MA Elloree, SC

Date Unknown March 1, 1986 Date Unknown Elliott Bradley Lulu Lodgeskin Joseph While Irmo, SC Mission, SD Bullhead, SD Date Unknown February 1986 Date Unknown Bonnie Charles Leon Myers Shelby White Bear Eureka, CA Holly Hill, SC Rosebud, SD April 10, 1985 Date Unknown March 11, 1986 Maerea Chindahl Thomas E. Neal Tony White Lance N. Highlands, CA Rhodesdale, MD. Parmelee, SD Date Unknown February 16, 1986 June 25, 1985 Pearl Corbitt Rohanieh Ostovar Virginia Wiley Leesville, SC Ashland, OR Maywood, IL Date Unknown February 14, 1986 March 7, 1986 Gilbert DeBruin Evelyn Payne Dolores Williams Almond, WI Leesville, SC Swansea, SC March 13, 1986 Date Unknown August 1985 Charles Dixon Kay N. Potter Ruth Williams White Cone, AZ Mt. Shasta, CA Friday Harbor, WA August 1985 November 28, 1985 January 1986 Albert Dogg Michael Raspberry Alma Witt

Little Eagle, SD Columbia, SC Santa Monica, CA Date Unknown Date Unknown February 19, 1986 Cletus Eston Michelle Rutan Agnes Wright Davenport, IA Davis, CA Elloree, SC August 1985 March 9, 1986 Date Unknown Irving Fiddler Gordon Sabo Pressie Wright Mobridge, SD Milwaukie, OR Elloree, SC

June 1984 June 8, 1984 October 1981 Wayne Has Horns Bessie Sellers Reginald Yellow Horse Soldier Creek, SD _Ellloree, SC Oglala, SD

July 27, 1985 Date Unknown February 1986 Thomas Hart Shirley Shaw

Elloree, SC Laurinburg, NC

Date Unknown Date Unknown

Elmer A. Herider Mary Taylor

Flint, MI Des Plaines, IL

Date Unknown March 20, 1986 [Page 28]28 / The American Baha’i / May 1986

Praise for peace statement echoes throughout the world

Echoes of the influence of the peace statement are reaching the Universal House of Justice from all over the world. Some recent examples:

© Willy Brandt, a Nobel Peace Prize winner and chairman of the German Social Democratic Party, appreciatively received the statement and sought for constructive action on behalf of the Baha’is in Iran.

¢ Prime Minister Laurent Fabius of France wrote that he had read with great interest the statement from the Universal House of Justice, and affirmed that the ideas expressed therein were in agreement for the most part with French policy, which, in accordance with that country’s support for human rights, pays special attention to the situation of minorities oppressed because of their religious beliefs.

Louis Mermaz, president of the. National Assembly of France, wrote: ‘I thank you for having sent me this document which will be useful to me.””

The vice-president of that same body said he had read the statement “‘with great interest.’”’ Other French officials have written in a similar vein.

¢ After reading the peace statement, the minister of culture in Senegal asked local Baha’is to take part in the elaboration of a cultural ‘‘charter’’ for the Senegalese people, one that would provide for unity in diversity.

© The vice-president of Bolivia, in a two-page letter to that country’s National Spiritual Assembly, described the statement as “‘an interesting document which undoubtedly constitutes a contribution to the mutually longed-for desire of obtaining peace for all the peoples of the world.’”

Aunt Fly

from page 4

ference. Daily feedings of five to 30 minutes are basic to part two of your fitness program.

Part three of your spiritual shape-up lets you exercise your “‘Won’t-Power”’ with one or two daily refusals of your most frequent temptations.

Your best chances for success come immediately after nutritive feedings of the Word. Soul-building needs a goal.

Substitute for the biblical Armageddon your own ultimate confrontation with your Most Towering Adversary to firmness in the Covenant.

Whether your adversary be lazy irresponsibility, philistine ignorance, or wine, women and song, your daily training sessions will take on added zest if you can welcome a demonstration of your new prowess.

Daily training for ‘‘the match’’ will buoy sagging wills and flabby fisicals while it breaks down old habits and firms up new spiritual muscles.

Remember, Richard Simmons has nothing on you as your systematic regimen of Prayer Power, Will Power and Won’t Power firms and tones your soul into a knockout contender for Living the Life.

See you on the track, friends!

—Aunt Fly

He expressed his agreement with many points in the statement, saying, “‘It is important to emphasize those concepts related to the union of all the nations of the world, where an International Executive power, a World Parliament and a Supreme Tribunal will be established.”

Bolivia’s minister of foreign affairs, after reading ‘“‘The Promise of World Peace,” invited-local Baha’is to become a part of weekly Peace Committee meetings.

• In Thailand, Baha’is have

been invited to work on the Peace Committee of Chulalongkorn University, and an eminent Baha’i has been asked to lecture in a course on the philosophy of religion.

¢ Appreciative and encouraging letters have been received from the president and prime minister of Israel, both of whom have visited the Seat of the Universal House of Justice and have received Baha’i delegations.

© The response of the minister of the Department of Health in Transkei was to thank the National Spiritual Assembly and to say, ‘‘We all pursue the same goal, and hopefully, assisting and strengthening each other’s beliefs, shall eventually arrive at universal truth.””

• A confirmation has been received from the postal service that

“The Promise of World Peace’’ has been delivered to the head of state of Kuwait.

Fine arts can play role in deepening

Fund commitment

“The Arts and the Fund.’ Sound like strange bedfellows? Not at all.

Stop and think about the powerful and uplifting influence the arts have on an audience.

In the recent past, Dr. David Ruhe, a member of the Universal House of Justice, emphasized the importance of incorporating the arts into our work with~*‘The Promise of World Peace’ and social and economic development.

The arts can play an integral part in deepening our understanding of and commitment to the Fund as well. Art can inspire both the artist and others to act more generously and sacrificially.

“The reasons for our lack of funds are not material but spiritual in nature,’’ said Dr. Ruhe, echoing the sentiments so often expressed by the Guardian, Shoghi Effendi.

The arts provide a way to stir one’s soul when illustrating the fundamentally spiritual nature of the Fund.

A variety of art forms are available to us: music, the spoken word, the written word, visual arts, and the performing arts.

We can bring life to the spiritual principles upon which the Fund is based—love, sacrifice, steadfastness and so on—through the artistic expression of these God-inspired ideals.

Explore and develop the creative potential within you and call upon the artists in your community who are eager to serve the Faith with their talents. Discover how the arts can enrich Fund education.

! | MovinG?

TELL US YOUR NEW ADDRESS

To avoid unnecessary delays in receiving your copy of THE AMERICAN BAHA'I, send your new address and your mailing label to the OFFICE OF MEMBERSHIP & RECORDS, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, as soon as you know where you are going to move and what your new

address will be.

This form may be used for one person or your entire family. Please be sure to list FULL NAMES AND ID. NUMBERS for all individuals, ages 15 years or older, who will be affected by this change.

De Title Full name—Please DO NOT use nicknames ID# Title Full name Dt Title Full name IDt Title Full name B—NEW RESIDENCE ADDRESS: C_NEW MAIL ADDRESS: House/Space #, Street or Description P.O. Box or other Mailing Address City State Zip City State Zip. D—NEW COMMUNITY: Moving date

E—HOME TELEPHONE NUMBER:

ZL

‘Area Code Number

We receive extra copies because: we do not have the same last name. We do not want extra copies, so please cancel the copy for the person(s) whose name(s) and I.D. number(s) are listed above.

Z

Z

the last names and addresses on our address labels do not match exactly. We have listed above the full names of all family members as they should appear on the national records, their ID. numbers, and the corrections so that we will receive only one copy.

BAHA’I NATIONAL CENTER

Wilmette, Hlinois 60091

NON-PROFIT ORG. US. POSTAGE PAID WILMETTE, IL. PERMIT NO. 479

! I hes ks 12 ie 13. I Is I ! ! I I I bese I I Name of new Baha’i community I I I ! I ie I I I I I I I I I l , I I I

F—WORK TELEPHONE NUMBERS:

Please indicate in the right-hand space whose work numbers these are.

Area Code Number

Area Code Number

Name

Name

Our household receives only one copy of The American Babs’. I wish to receive my own copy as well, and have listed my name, I.D. number and address above so that I may be put on the mailing list to receive my own copy.

Note to producers of items for sale

Notice to all Bahá’í artists, musicians and others who are producing items for distribution and sale which represent the Bahá’í Faith:

The Special Materials Reviewing Committee urges all Baha’is who are producing or planning to produce items for sale and/or distribution and which represent the Faith to submit their plans to the committee before investing time or money in printing or production.

The committee advises the friends that Shoghi Effendi instructed them not to reproduce likenesses of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá for distribution or purchase, saying, ‘‘... they should confine themselves to His photographs, as these are, of course, a much more perfect likeness of Him.’

The committee would also like to point out that the Baha’i Directory is not to be used by the friends for mailing private advertising materials, as it is for Baha’i administrative use only.

Two-week introductory media course is scheduled at Amoz Gibson Centre

“Introduction to Development,’’ a two-week introductory course designed to give students a general overview of development media as well as hands-on practice in the basics of graphic arts, photography, music, audio-visual presentations, radio, the press, and more, will be held June 23-July 6 at CIRBAL’s Amoz Gibson Training Centre for Baha’i Media in Arecibo, Puerto Rico.

Classes, in Spanish and English, will be presented by a number of media specialists including actress Barbara Joyce, graphic artist/ photographer Ron Stephens, journalist Grace Cali Feldstein, silkscreen hobbyist Charles Smith, audio-visual specialist Steven Gottlieb, Training Centre administrator Randie Gottlieb, musician Hector Pérez, and K. Dean Stephens, director of CIRBAL’s broadcast division and designer of Radio Baha’i facili

Tuition is $330 (U. S.) per student including materials, room and board. A special early bird registration fee of $280 is available if an $80 deposit is received by June 9 with the remaining $200

due on June 23.

For more information, contact the Amoz Gibson Training Centre for Bahd’{ Media,

Arecibo, Puerto Rico 00612.

New England Youth Conference slated

The biggest, the best, the most spectacular—as a matter of fact, the only Regional Youth Conference this summer for the states of Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Maine, Connecticut, New Hampshire, etc., is coming in August!

If you want a fantastic spiritual experience from August 1-3, be sure to look for upcoming ads, articles and so forth in this and other Baha’i publications, or contact Mike or Chip Brehman,

Elizabethtown, PA 17022 (phone 717-367-6965).

The conference, on the campus of Elizabethtown College, is being brought to you by the District Youth Committee of Pennsylvania. The conference theme is “*Youth—PEACEing it Together.”” �