The American Bahá’í/Volume 17/Issue 8/Text

The American Bahá’í
Volume 17, Issue 8

House of Justice raises number of Auxiliary Board members

To the Bahá’ís of the World Present Number New Boards reflects the recent increase of the number of ContiBeloved Friends, Auxiliary Boards Number Added Number ea ou oe 2 ai jal is required by te " : ye marked growth in the size of ’{ communities, a growt! pee tt Yeas Bilan has been launctied anpeuonal Babel | APmICA Protection 81 9 90 which it is confidently expected will accelerate during the papa rae tn eagrm ce Lene Ot Acumen SOTETIME: Propagation 99 9 108 Six Year Plan as the impact of the Faith’s emergence from lating their national goals. On the Day of the Covenant, 26 obscurity begins to make itself evident in a growing interest Noverbea veo c8, Hew cuamgnaive years will begilfor WAMERICAS 7 Brotection "54 9 63 in its teachings by people in all walks of life. thet ee ee find it cae roma ts enti the folowing Propagation 117 0 117 It will also assist the vital development in maturity and deuicasl” Propi experience of the National and local Spiritual Assemblies, a ee \ ASIA Protection 99 0 99 process which must synchronize with the further developAs from last Ridvan, Turkey has been transferred from Propagation 117 9 126 ment of the World Center of the Faith and the advance of the area of responsibility of the Continental Board of mankind toward the attainment of the Lesser Peace. Who Counselors in Asia to that of the Continental Board of AUSTRALASIA Protection 27 9 36 can tell what challenges these burgeoning divine institutions Counselors in Europe. Counselor Ilhan Sezgin is, there- Propagation 36 9 45 will have to face in the years immediately ahead—years fore, a member of the European Board of Counselors. It which may well see the realization of mankind’s gravest has also been decided to increase the size of the European EUROPE Protection 36 0 36 fears and the appearance of the fulfillment of its highest Auxiliary Board for the Protection of the Faith to 36 mem- Propagation 36 0 36 hopes. bers, which is the same as the number currently authorized Our prayers at the Sacred Threshold are offered on for the Propagation Board in that continent. TOTAL 102 54 756 behalf of every faithful follower of the Blessed Beauty who In view of the growth of the Baha’i community and its : is laboring for the promotion of His Cause. emergence from obscurity, we have decided to make the Total Protection 297 21 324 With loving Baha’i greetings, Total Propagation 405 21 432 The Universal House of Justice

following further changes in the number of members of the

Auxiliary Boards, to be effective from 26 November 1986: This further expansion of the institution of the Auxiliary May 25, 1986

The

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a Baha. 1

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

Volume 17, No. 8 August 1986

National Assembly dissolves Assembly in Los Angeles

On July 19, at a special meeting in Los Angeles, the National Spiritual Assembly informed the members of that city’s Assembly of its decision to dissolve the Assembly in the best interests of the community.

Two days later the National Assembly sent the following letter to the Baha’is of Los Angeles explaining the reasons for that decision:

Dear Friends:

After prolonged and agonizing consultation over the past several months concerning the state of affairs in the Baha’i community of Los Angeles, the National Spiritual Assembly has concluded that the situation requires remedial action.

The first step taken by the National Assembly to restore the spiritual vitality and historic pres See LOS ANGELES page 28 Articulos en Espanol, pagina 18

The American Baha’ (USPS 042430) 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. The editor of The American Bahd' Jack Bowers. Associate editor is Laura E. Hildreth. We welcome news, letters and other items of interest from individuals and institutions of the Faith. Articles should be written in a clear and concise manner, and preferably typewritten. Color or black and white glossy photographs should be included whenever possible. Please address all materials to The Editor, The American Bahá’í, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. Copyright © 1986 by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of the United States. World rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A.

Pictured are some of the Bahá’ís who were present June 15 at a district Town Meeting in Bend, Oregon, one of 168 such gatherings

held across the country in June to discuss goals and strategies for the Six Year Plan and to make recommendations to the National Spir itual Assembly. Speaking is Ted Hays (left foreground, gesturing), an assistant to Auxiliary Board member Marsha Gilpatrick. We'll

have a complete report of the Town meetings in next month’: issue of The American Baha’

(Photo by Larry Pedersen)

Plans set for historic 1st Peace Conference

With plans completed and excitement growing the National Spiritual Assembly awaits the imminent arrival of thousands of Baha’is and other guests at the first Baha’i International Peace Conference to be held August 28-31 in San Francisco, California.

The historic conference has been designed to provide a forum for the exchange of ideas on peace-related topics through discussions, enjoyment of music and the arts, and opportunities for casual interaction.

General sessions will feature speakers, workshops, music and dance, and will use the arts as a

spiritual expression of mankind’s age-old quest for peace.

The outstanding line-up of speakers includes:

C. Eric Lincoln, professor of

religion and culture at Duke University and author of Race, Relig See CONFERENCE page 4

Iran martyrs another Bahai

WITH HEAVY HEARTS WE ANNOUNCE EXECUTION BY HANGING OF FARID BIHMARDI ON 10 JUNE 1986 IN TEHERAN. HIS FAMILY WERE UNAWARE OF HIS EXECUTION AND FOUND OUT ABOUT THIS SAD EVENT A FEW DAYS AFTER HE WAS BURIED BY THE AUTHORITIES. MR. BIHMARDI, AGE 46, WAS ONE OF THE OUTSTANDING BAHA’IS IN THE CRADLE OF THE FAITH. HE WAS UNDER TORTURE FOR A VERY PROLONGED PER10D OF TIME, BUT HIS ENDURANCE WAS A SOURCE OF ENCOURAGEMENT TO OTHER BAHA’{ PRISONERS WHO WERE WITNESSES TO HIS SUFFERING. FIVE OTHER PRISONERS HAVE INDICATED TO THEIR VISITING RELATIVES THAT IT MAY BE THE LAST VISIT THEY WILL HAVE, WHICH IMPLIES THEIR IMMINENT EXECUTION. YOU MAY APPROACH THE GOVERNMENT AND MEDIA SO THAT IMMEDIATE ACTION MAY BE TAKEN TO TRY TO AVERT FURTHER CRUELTIES BEING METED OUT TO THE INNOCENT BAHA’[S OF IRAN.

UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE JUNE 24, 1986

[Page 2]2/ The American Baha’i / August 1986

YES, THIS 1S THE LOCAL BAHAI’ 1 TELEPHONE NUMBER,

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Loa Ne, PCAN 1S) Not A CALIFORNIA ROAD

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a VIEWPOINT

Last February the Spiritual Assembly of Loveland received an invitation from the new chaplain at McKee Medical Center, the city’s only hospital, to attend a get-acquainted luncheon at the hospital, the purpose of which was to familiarize clergymen with the chaplain’s duties and to explain the services he performed.

The Assembly asked me to attend the luncheon as its representative. Arriving early, I saw four ministers seated at a table talking.

Recognizing one of them as a young Lutheran minister who had spoken several years ago to some Presbyterian youth the same night that I had, I approached the group, ' introduced myself and

by Darian Smith, Apex, North Carolina

Meeting clergymen can be positive experience

seated myself at one of the empty tables across the room.

Soon other clergymen began to arrive. Among the first was a friendly man dressed in traditional black suit with high, white collar and wearing a long chain with a cross.

He crossed the room quickly, hand extended, and smiled broadly as he asked me which church I represented.

When I replied that I was representing the Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of Loveland, he smiled even more broadly and said he had lived near the House of Worship while attending Northwestern University ‘‘many moons ago.””

‘My nervousness began to melt, and I asked his name. ‘Call me

shook hands with them, then Howard,’’ he said.

Message of love, hope from Hand of Cause Ugo Giachery

Dear Lovers of Bahá’u’lláh,

. The Seven Year Plan has just ended in the midst of celestial strains and the plaudits of the Divine Concourse, ushering with grace and joy another plan, the Six Year Plan (1986-1992), which will pass into history, bearing the name of ‘Accomplishment and Triumph.”’

All the believers of this planet are asked to rally together, as never before. It will be the greatest effort to be accomplished by all of us—wherever we are or will choose to go.

By this time you may have received from your National Spiritual Assembly the detailed plan, elaborated by our august body, the Universal House of Justice. When I first glanced at the pages, filled with all the objectives we have to attain in such short lapse of time, I felt I was looking through the iron gate of an enchanted garden, filled with the most precious, divinely created remedies to heal the whole world.

Dearest friends, we shall win. We are laboring on the side of love, harmony, compassion, humbleness, perseverance, finding joy in working for the Cause of God, with passion and sincerity, by being always happy and partaking in this happiness with the rest of humanity.

I have served the Faith of God for many decades, and I am going to hand down the secrets of my blessed wife and myself to all of you. Devote your life to the service of the Cause of God.

The highest station man can aspire to is that of service. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá selected that name for Himself ... it means ‘‘Servant of Baha.”’ Avoid any form of ambition. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, in a Tablet addressed to the North American believers in 1898, said that ambition that is not applied to the service of mankind is an abomination.

Place always the needs of the Faith far above any personal affair and interest ... be always polite, kind and generous. Teach your children to grow up like that; plant in them the desire to learn and to love their teachers. Those younger believers who will reach the age of 15 this year, will in 1991 become the voting members. How many? How many? Shall we say millions!

Ny warmest love to you all and my prayers be around you every

Yy.

Ugo Giachery April 1986

This month’s article, “‘Fostering Friendships with Clerics,”’ was written by Sharon Babbitt, a member of the Spiritual Assembly of Loveland, Colorado.

“’m happy to meet you,” I said, “but surely you have a title.

“The name is Howard Huff,””

he said. “Is that Father Huff?”’ I asked. “Heavens no!’’ he replied,

laughing. “I’m the preacher at Trinity Methodist Church.””

He then began to motion to other clergymen to join our table, saying, ‘‘Come sit with us. This is Mrs. Babbitt and we'll all get along with perfect unity at this table, because she’s a Baha’i .. and after all, the Baha’i Faith includes all of us, so we'll include her!”’

During the luncheon the other ministers confessed that they knew almost nothing of the Faith. Naturally, I was quick to supply whatever information they needed.

The man on my right showed the most interest in the Faith. He was born and reared in India, and I took the opportunity to tell him about the new Temple there while Howard filled him in on details of the design and gardens that are typical of Baha’i Houses of Worship.

After lunch the chaplain stood to address the group and opened his talk by welcoming the “‘honored guest’’ representing the Baha’i Faith!

As 30 pairs of masculine eyes

wall of the hospital chapel. He said it sounded like a good idea, and asked if the Baha’is could submit books or other literature for him to review.

As I turned to leave, another Lutheran minister asked if 1 would be interested in representing the Faith at monthly meetings of the Loveland Ministerial Association.

As I went down the hospital corridor I was ‘‘walking on air,”? and all the way I was thanking Baha’u’llah for His help.

Before going to the luncheon I

had prayed, “‘Loose my tongue to laud Thy Name amidst Thy people, that my voice may be raised in great assemblies, and from my lips may stream the flood of Thy praise’ (Baha’i Prayers).

1 am writing this article with the hope that it will encourage others to become better acquainted with clergymen where they live. ‘‘Whoso openeth his lips in this Day and maketh mention of the name of his Lord, the hosts of Divine inspiration shall descend upon him from the heaven of My name. ...’” (Gleanings, p. 280)

Assemblies are asked to host Conventions

The National Spiritual Assembly has asked more than 290 local Spiritual Assemblies across the country to host this year’s District Conventions. The Assemblies have the choice of holding the Convention on Sunday, October 5, or Sunday, October 19.

In most cases two Assemblies will work together to organize the Convention, jointly forming a Convention Planning Team, In a few areas, however, a single Assembly, the District Teaching Committee, a Group or task force will be involved in making arrangements for the meeting.

There will be 168 Conventions this year, one in each of the new electoral units. Each of them will elect one delegate, except in New York City and Los Angeles, where two and three delegates, respectively, will be elected.

Delegates elected at the District Conventions will then convene at next year’s National Convention

to elect the members of the National Spiritual Assembly.

The host Assemblies have been encouraged to adapt the Convention’s length and agenda to suit the needs of the unit; thus, Conventions in some areas may not last a full day as in the past.

In addition, the host Assemblies and Convention planning teams have been encouraged to plan an activity before or after the Convention to attract more people and make the day more enjoyable.

Those Conventions held on October 19, for example, could be followed by a celebration of the Birth of the Bab which begins that day at sunset.

A listing of Convention sites and dates will be included in next month’s issue of The American Baha’i and will be mailed to adult Baha’is with their voting materials. Please plan to attend the Convention in your area.

turned toward the only female in the room, I thanked the chaplain for his warm greeting.

I wondered how he had known my name, then remembered that I had sought him out as I entered the hospital lobby to introduce myself and thank him for the invitati a reminder to all of us that it is important to show courtesy to a host and respect to members of the clergy.

Following his talk there was a time for socializing. I approached the chaplain to thank him again for inviting the Baha’is and asked if he would consider placing the prayer for expectant mothers and a healing prayer in bedside drawers. He said he would consider it.

While I had his attention I asked if he would consider having a rack for free literature on the back

‘Executive arm of National Assembly’

Over the last several years the volume of business transacted by the National Spiritual Assembly through the Office of the Secretary has greatly increased. In the spring of 1984 the National Assembly determined that it needed an office that would deal exclusively with the federal government, national organizations, © and national communications media. Therefore, the National Assembly established the Office of External Affairs.

The Office of External Affairs, which is headed by a member of the National Spiritual Assembly, is, like the Office of the Secretary, an executive arm of the National Assembly. It is not a committee or a consultative body.

All Baha’i administrative agencies as well as individuals who have dealings with the federal government or officials with national organizations or media should maintain close contact with the National Spiritual Assembly through its Office of External Affairs which is located at . New Haven, CT 06510 (telephone 203-787-0303).

National Spiritual Assembly of

the Bahá’ís of the United States

Firuz Kazemzadeh, vice-chairman and director of the Office of External Affairs

[Page 3]

“The shining spark of truth cometh forth only after the clash

of differing opinions. ’’—‘Abdu’l-Bahá

The American Baha’i 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:

I have read with interest the letters in The American Bahd’{ about observing

mas.

Before I became a Baha’i 24 years ago, Christmas seemed to me to be a series of meaningless, irritating rituals and expectations in which I felt compelled to participate, and which I resented. I was glad, after becoming a Baha’i, to have an excuse to no longer be involved.

As the years passed, I persisted in my lack of involvement in Christmas despite my family’s disappointment. I would always say,

‘Baha’is don’t celebrate Christmas.””

Then—wonder of wonders—I found a new meaning to Christmas. I discovered that Christmas was actually an ancient celebration of the winter solstice that was adopted by the early Christians. The celebration honors the triumph of light over darkness and is symbolized in nature by the sun which seems to return from its winter retreat with longer periods of light.

The ‘promise of new life and hope which this event held made the ancient celebration most sacred. It is observed by many people in many forms; Persian friends have told me it is customary in their culture to celebrate this event.

For me, Christmas has now become a glorious time for sharing love and hope and the promise of new life with all mankind.

Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, which tells of the transformation of the human soul, and the seasonal Christmas music in which we sing to the glory of the new Savior, are examples of hope and new life that represent the true spirit of the season.

Christmas has now become my favorite season, and I celebrate it with my fellow humans with all the Baha’i fervor of which I am capable.

Had I not taken to heart the Baha’i teachings, I never would have aes the ancient beauty of

Jan Jackson Torrance, California

To the Editor:

I want to thank the National Spiritual Assembly for presenting at the recent “town ings’’ the beautiful video tape of the accomplishments of the Baha’ is during the Seven Year Plan.

With the many goals and chal lenges ever-present in the Baha’i world, it was an inspiration to realize the progress we are making when it often feels like there is so much to be done, so many more goals to win.

Sometimes it is difficult when buried in our important task of building the new World Order to indeed see the progress we are making.

Perhaps we can take the National Assembly’s example of providing inspiration and use it in our own localities and districts.

Personally, I find it quite distressing and burdensome when at gatherings such as the town meetings, District Conventions, and even Feasts, individuals take the platform to remind us in a reprimanding tone that goals are not being met, teaching is not getting done, and people are not putting the Faith first.

When presented to the community in this way, such observations come off as accusations. Whether or not they are true, this reproachful method, unlike the video, is not very motivating.

Kim Meilicke Tucson, Arizona

To the Editor:

Thank God for someone who has found a deeper spiritual maturity and can help initiate the reconciliation of religion, science and reason.

John Dale’s ‘‘World government: redefining terms’’ (‘‘Viewpoint,’”” May) provides excellent stimulation for those who must explore the deeper aspects of people, life and our relationship to

His concept of ‘“‘global selfgovernment” is truly a stroke of genius.

Some of you may be inspired to pursue such ideas to an even deeper level, and I would like to suggest a few pointers in that direction. In the transition from a Formative Age to a more productive age we find certain prerequisites that have not yet been emphasized.

The most basic characteristic of what we call civilization is the capacity for self-government.

In the Utopian ultimate there would be no need for external guidance or control; we would all know exactly what was right for ourselves and for all others. But we are a long way from that.

And since all messianic contributions begin at home (‘‘let there be peace, and let it begin with me’’), the key to our future success lies in the development of spiritual maturity within each of us. So also with ‘‘self-government.’”

We haven’t yet discovered the correct approach to spiritual maturity that lies within the essence of all religion.

Until now, the only place that seems to me to provide a point of beginning would lie in a more mature and advanced approach to what we have called ‘‘deepening.’’ This may give us a new concept of true “‘self”’-government.

One aspect of how ‘‘all the atoms of the earth’’ are changing

work. God is the ultimate Provider, but His Laws require that we take the initiative.

‘And the first step—the ‘first Taréz and the First Tajalli ... from ... the Mother-Book”’ demands that we begin searching for the true approach to ‘‘know thy self’’—the starting point of all religion—which in recent ages has been totally lost.

As with all levels of deeper truth, this principle likewise has universal application—to each person, to each Assembly, to each community and to each religion.

C.M. Gordon Denton, Texas

To the Editor:

John Dale’s article (May), “World Government: Redefining terms,”’ hits the nail on the head.

It is true that ‘‘world government”’ has become one of the buzz-words of the ’80s with as many negative as positive connotations associated with the term.

The role of Baha’is thus becomes one of educating our fellow-men in the essential prerequisites of the age, dissociated from the political or simple-minded concepts that many people generally associate with the term “world government.””

Our first step is to study the concept of world government as envisioned by Bahd’u’ll4h, and contrast that concept in our minds with those definitions of the term that are being used or abused (sometimes intentionally) by those who do not have access to the Creative Word.

By so doing, we begin to recognize the unifying principles envisioned by Bahá’u’lláh which include world government, world peace and world-mindedness.

These concepts spring from an all-encompassing Vision that includes the above-mentioned principles as well as others that we haven’t even begun to understand.

Only through true deepening will we be able to raise our understanding of Baha’u’llah’s Vision above the level of buzz-words and catchy phrases. Then our words can become like music to the hear er. Let us begin to discuss, deepen, contemplate and truly grasp the significance of Baha’u’llah’s Vision, then communicate the beauty and sincerity of our Faith to those who are waiting and looking for us. Richard Pelto-Brodin Anoka, Minnesota

To the Editor:

The cartoon (March) was so funny! The one about the street “teacher’’ who thinks world peace is unrealistic. It was somewhat surprising to me to find letters of criticism in the June issue.

The cartoon had a valuable moral, that we be aware of contradictions that are often made by others (and ourselves) without

The American Baha’i / August 1986 / 3

To me, the cartoon is reminiscent of the story on page 119 of Fire on the Mountain-Top, by Gloria Faizi. In the story, Mirza

‘Abu’l-FadI (before becoming a Baha’i) encounters a poor ‘‘ignorant’’ blacksmith who is a Babi.

“Is it true, O learned divine,” asked the blacksmith, “‘that it is recorded in our traditions that every raindrop is brought down to earth by an angel from the sky?””

“Yes,” replied ‘Abu’|l-Fadl, “‘it is true.”

The blacksmith continued working, then said, ‘‘I have heard that, according to our traditions, no angel ever enters a house where there is a dog. Is there indeed such a tradition?”

“There is,” said ‘Abu’l-Fadl.

The blacksmith hammered his last nail, then said, ‘‘I presume then that no raindrops ever fall in a place where there is a dog.”

The obvious contradiction removed the veil from Mirza ‘Abu’lFadl’s eyes and he began to study the Bab’s claim.

The March cartoon, remaining long in one’s memory, is a reminder of similar contradictions in our time, and a reminder of the teaching opportunities that surround us daily.

We must continue to investigate the truth even after becoming Baha’is.

Jeff Palermo Falls Church, Virginia

To the Editor:

In reply to those who were concerned that my cartoon (March) would be seen by clergymen, I sincerely hope that indeed it will.

In fact, it was so designed that Baha’ is could cut it out and post it for all to see.

Nothing unkind was said—only the direct message of the Faith and the most common response to it. This was at no one’s ‘‘ex Are we forever to be confined to a trite, infantile humor? Can we not laugh at the unfair ironies that hold our Faith back?

I should like to submit the opinions of a few good Friends regarding professional clergymen:

“Woe unto you scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men.”’—Jesus Christ

“The blame falleth upon their doctors, for if these had believed, they would have been followed by the mass of their countrymen ... Consider how they themselves have been the cause of men’s failure to accept the Faith and attain unto salvation!’’—The Bab

“The source and origin of tyranny have been the divines ...

(who) because of their want of discernment and their love and eagerness for leadership, have failed to submit to the Cause of God, nay, have even refused to incline their ears unto the Divine Melody.”’Bahá’u’lláh

Are we to fear that these words may be seen by clergymen? I thank The American Bahá’í for its

audacity. Darian Smith Apex, North Carolina

To the Editor:

I think the idea of carting believers as ‘‘American’’ “*Persian’’ is man-made and fone mental to the principle of the oneness of mankind and, like the problem of black and white, may one day backfire on us.

Therefore, I think it is better to divorce it once and for all from our community and consider everyone as equal and law-abiding in the sight of God.

Farrokh Sabeti Dearborn, Michigan

To the Editor:

In an article (March) headlined “Faith places great emphasis on child’s proper education,’’ the author states that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá explained that formal schooling should not begin until age five, and then, by giving the quotation justifying the statement, implies that it ‘‘must begin’”’ at that age.

What is not taken into account is that the Master’s letter was directed to a group of Persian country women, most or all of whom we can presume were without any formal education, and it would seem He was suggesting that they should get some help in training their children, albeit at this age limited to spiritual teachings and learning simple basics through

games.

The author also quotes ‘Abdu’l-Bahá (from Star of the West) in reference to intelligence and development in relation to readiness for being taught, but looking at the complete quotation, we find He is also said to have said (it being pilgrim’s notes), ‘‘Many a child of 10 is sufficiently developed and advanced to receive some teaching and some are ready for it at the age of eight or nine.’”

Baha’is are prone to cite the lone reference from the letter to Iranian mothers about the age of five, but my point is that a number of references are available with respect to the importance of readiness and the formal schooling should begin when the child can ‘‘make distinctions,”’ or, as we might interpret it, ‘‘reason

See LETTERS page 26

New from George Ronald, Publisher Mama Buzurg is Coming

by Joseph Sheppherd

Two young Baha’i girls in West Africa prepare a surprise for their ‘grandmother’ who is arriving from

Iran.

She had visited them once before three years ago. But when she returned to Iran, they heard that she had been put in prison. Now at last she was free again and coming back to Africa. . .

A lovely story for younger children.

32 pages, full colour cover. Softcover $3.95 Order through your local librarian, or send check or money order

(including 10% for postage and handling, minimum $1.50) to: Bahd’é Distribution Service, 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091

[Page 4]4/The American Baha’ / August 1986

CHAMPIONBUILDERS

HOWARD J. SNIDER

Howard Snider was born in 1884, the only son of a farming couple in Jeffersonville, Indiana.

Although his parents hoped he would continue in their footsteps as a farmer, Howard was lured away by a burning desire for higher education. He refused to attend nearby Ohio State University, saying he felt ‘divinely guided”’ to set out for the University of Illinois.

While there he met two young men who were searching for a religion stripped of superstition and the emotional oratory of the time.

The three of them visited all the churches in Champaign-Urbana, each time hoping to satisfy their inner longings, and finally learned of the Baha’i Faith from Albert Vail who had met ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and was on fire with love for Him.

Mr. Snider, very much attracted to the new Faith, brought its message home to his wife, Lucille, who, as a student preparing to become a missionary, delved into her Bible to check every bit of news, and to their joy, convinced them intellectually of what they had already accepted in their hearts.

Both became firm and devoted Baha’is, and served for many years on the Spiritual Assembly of Urbana. Their home was always open for Baha’i meetings and Baha’i guests.

Life in the Snider household was kept very simple. There was always enough good food, clothing, books and whatever was needed for their education and health, but they did without the fancier things in life so as to leave room for the more important things, such as giving to the Baha’i Funds.

Howard gave not only his money to the Faith—he gave unstintingly of his time as well. He could never turn his back on anyone who was in trouble, and, quietly and selflessly, he helped more people than anyone ever knew.

After his death, many people wrote to or phoned his daughters, Virginia and Elaine, to say how much they appreciated the help he had given them with money, food, encouragement, or sound advice. He tried to ‘‘live the life,’’ and his. deeds far exceeded his words.

Howard Snider had a firm be See SNIDER page 27

Conference

from page 1

ion and the Continuing American Dilemma.

Annie Dodge Wauneka, a

Navajo tribal leader and the first and only American Indian to be awarded the Medal of Freedom.

David Bernstein, professor of

international studies at Stanford University.

Thomas Banyaca, a Hopi Indian spiritual leader and wellknown lecturer on Hopi prophecies.

Richard Rathbun Jr. of the

“Beyond War” Foundation.

Panel discussions, special interest topics and the arts will comprise the substance of nearly 200 workshops on themes of spiritual renewal, social and economic development, the elimination of prejudice, the equality of men and

women, universal education, and world federalism.

The workshops will emphasize group participation with a goal of instilling ‘‘take-home’’ skills for spreading the concept that peace is inevitable.

Youth will take part with adults in the workshops and will also have a special session of their own on Friday afternoon.

“‘Night-owl”’ sessions at the Hilton Hotel ballroom will feature casual entertainment and offer youth the opportunity to socialize.

The curriculum for the child ren’s program will be aimed toward giving them an understanding of peace and skills necessary to the pursuit of peace.

Special activities such as a trip to San Francisco’s well-known Exploratorium and to the Academy of Sciences will highlight the concept of science as service to mankind.

To assure the peace of mind and enjoyment of the conference by the youngest attendees, a play and rest space for infants and toddlers will be available in the Civic Auditorium, site of general conference sessions.

St. Petersburg’s ‘audacious’ plan comes up a winner

By BRUCE BUTLER

In April 1984 the Spiritual Assembly of St. Petersburg, Florida, announced a goal of doubling the number of Baha’is in that city (from 65 to 130) by the end of the Seven Year Plan.

To tell you the truth, some of us. thought the Assembly was being a bit audacious. By April 1985 there were 77 Baha’is in St. Pete, leaving 53 to go and one year in which to reach the goal.

The Baha’j year 142 will be forever remembered in the annals of the St. Petersburg community. A Cambodian Baha’i moved there and began telling other Cambodians about the Faith.

Before we knew it, we were haying three weekly firesides for Cambodians, and English classes that also served as deepenings were being held many times each week.

After the Cambodians, Laotians started coming into the Faith, then Thais, and now Vietnamese are becoming interested. ‘We’ve had to rent large halls for community meetings. And it sure is nice to have Feast translated into three languages.

Several times we’ve had the experience of teaching Cambodians, thinking that although friendly they were not interested in declaring, then, weeks or months

See ST. PETERSBURG page 28

The Baha’i House of Worship of the Indian Sub-continent, which is nearing completion on the outskirts of New Delhi, is now free of scaffolding and the huge building crane so that one can see the entire edifice with the marble in place. The architect, Fariburz Sahba, is now working on finishing touches

to the interior and grounds, and says the Temple and its landscaping will be completed in time for the formal dedication ceremonies December 23-27. Some 10,000 people are expected to attend those events whose climax will be a large public meeting at the In dira Gandhi Indoor Stadium. Among those scheduled to take part in the formal dedication December 24 is world-renowned musician Pandit Ravi Shankar who will lead an Indian choir that will present songs composed by him especially for the occasion.

Heads of state

Reports received at the Baha’i World Center indicate that to date (June 19) 168 special copies of “The Promise of World Peace’’ addressed to heads of state have been delivered; 142 of these have gone to heads of independent countries; and of these, 51 were presented directly by representatives of National Spiritual Assemblies and 91 through intermediaries for the most part or through the mail.

The dynamism which has been put in motion by the distribution of the peace statement has been manifested in many ways, some of. which are:

© The National Spiritual Assembly of Reunion held a symposium on peace at which they presented the peace statement to the heads of their government, with excellent media coverage. For the first time, representatives of all the major religions were present, and it was reported that ‘‘at the time of the first prayer, spontaneously, all present stood up, some in tears.’”

In Belize a successful ‘‘Peace

Exhibit” to which Baha’is and non-Baha’is contributed _paintings, drawings, graphics, sculp

continue to receive ‘Promise of Peace’

ture, needlework and stained glass, relating to the theme of peace, ran for six days.

¢ In an interfaith peace service at the House of Worship in Germany on the anniversary of the Declaration of the Bab, a capacity audience listened to exquisite choir music and readings on peace from Buddhism, Zoroastrianism, Judaism, Christianity, Islam and the Baha’i Faith.

© Another interfaith peace service organized by a Baha’i was celebrated by ministers, pastors, priests, a Buddhist monk and other spiritual leaders in Colorado together with members of the “Great Peace March,’’ and copies of ‘The Promise of World Peace’’ were distributed.

In Hong Kong an essay competition on the topic of peace involved 15 schools in the Southern District, with an award ceremony involving the media; Baha’is were thereafter asked to address a Catholic school on peace.

In Montichiari, Italy, the

mayor was presented with the peace statement at a Peace Exhibition involving more than 24 non-Bahá’í exhibitor groups, and

a peace concert was attended by more than 700 people; neighboring villages requested Baha’ help to organize similar events.

From New Caledonia comes a

report of presentations of the peace statement to tribal chiefs who accepted news of the Faith with enthusiasm when they understood that ‘‘progressive revelation’”’ neither negated nor condemned previous religions, and indeed their own tribal faith predicted the coming of a great “Peacemaker.”

In New Zealand the well-attended Auckland Regional Peace

Conference organized by Baha’is opened with a performance by the high school Maori Club and ended with a concert.

¢ In Arequipa, Peru, thousands of people witnessed the presentation of “The Promise of World Peace”’ to the President, who suggested that his wife help the Baha’i Women’s Committee parti pate in social and economic projects of the nation.

° A banquet for peace in Bangkok, Thailand, was attended by representatives of international agencies, the Sikh community, the

World Fellowship of Buddhists, and Chulalongkorn University, all of whom received copies of ‘‘The Promise of World Peace.”’ Speakers included a Baha’i who addressed the topic of the peace statement, and a professor of philosophy from the university.

¢ Australia reports another peace exposition, this time in Atherton, Northern Queensland, attended by some 4,500 enthusiastic people, 1,000 of whom attended an international concert in which a wide range of cultures was represented; 200 attended an allday Peace Forum the next day.

In Mozambique, 35 Baha’is

joined a Peace March of 4,000 people who witnessed the Minister of Foreign Affairs, in the presence of the Ministers of Education and Culture, and of Justice, receiving the peace statement on behalf of the head of state; the presentation, which included the reading of a Baha’i prayer and a brief statement by the National Spiritual Assembly, was broadcast live on the national radio network and reported in the national newspaper.—Office of Public Information, Haifa [Page 5]that in the near ie. may be stirred cman by the results of your achievements. . .. that the same success which has attended your efforts in + America may crown your endeavors in other parts of the world... .” —Abdu’l-Bahá

Fund’s four-month

a THE FUNDS

Contributors to the National Baha’i Fund recently received a lovely card from the National Spiritual Assembly as a token of appreciation for their support at the close of the Seven Year Plan and as an aid to maintaining regular giving during the opening year of the Six Year Plan.

On the back of the card is a list of the Baha’i months with spaces

The American Baha’i / August 1986 / 5

National Assembly sends card of appreciation to those who have supported the National Fund

by each in which to record the date and amount of contributions sent to the National Fund.

The cards are intended to be kept in a place where they will serve as a reminder of the lofty achievements of the American Baha’i community during the most recent Plan and of the importance of regular sacrifice so that the challenges of the current Plan can be met.

The process of heightening public awareness of the aims of the Faith is about to take a dramatic leap forward with the San Francisco Peace Conference, and a

strong National Fund is needed to ensure that every opportunity for publicity can be seized.

The potential for advancing the cause of world peace in the coming months is enormous. The sky is the limit, assuming adequate resources are available.

All American Baha’is can champion the cause of peace through living sacrifice. If a gentle reminder will aid you in this quest, and if you have not yet received this ‘‘Contribution Record Card,’”’ you can obtain one by writing to the Bahd’{ National Center, Office of the Treasurer, Wilmette, IL 60091.

Six Year Plan to require big increase in financial resources of the Faith

Reports from 168 Town Meetings are coming to the National Center along with the plans submitted by local communities.

These reports describe a wide range of proposed activities in teaching, child education, proclamation through the media, social and economic development projects, interaction with society, youth development, and many other areas.

The plans and suggestions for national goals coming from the local level represent a promising start for the Six Year Plan. The successful completion of the Plan is certain to require a vast increase in the financial resources of the Faith—especially in the demands placed on the National Fund.

Consider that during the Seven Year Plan, to support the work that included such highlights as $7.5 million in contributions to the World Center, the building of WLGI Radio, the Native American Bahd’{ Institute and the

Louhelen Baha’i School, the unprecedented publicity and interaction with leaders of thought, and the teaching work among minorities, some $40 million was received in contributions to the Fund. This represents a 207 percent increase above the $13 million contributed during the Five Year Plan, and reflects a 220 percent increase in individual participation. In the Seven Year Plan the Faith emerged from obscurity, and new areas of endeavor in social and economic development, peace, and interaction with society were introduced. As a result, the challenges and accomplishments of the Six Year Plan may well dwarf those of the last Plan. What are some of these challenges? Shoghi Effendi, in 1954, foresaw three processes that would synchronize near the end of the century: the ‘‘establishment of the Lesser Peace,”’ the ‘evolution of Baha’j national and local institutions,” and the further devel opment of the World Center through the ‘‘construction ... of several other structures, which will serve as the administrative seats of such divinely appointed institutions as the Guardianship, the Hands of the Cause, and the Universal House of Justice.” (Messages to the Baha’ World, p. 74)

Each of these processes is singled out in the Six Year Plan. The Baha’i community is charged with “greater involvement of the Faith in the life of human society,’’ especially ‘‘organizations, prominent persons and those in authority concerning the promotion of peace ...”’ (Universal House of Justice, February 25, 1986)

It was the “‘remarkable unfoldment of organic growth in the maturity of the institutions of the Cause’ which led to the “opening of the fourth epoch of the Formative Age ...’? (Universal House of

See FUND page 13

total is $1.2 million

Contributions to the National Baha’i Fund for the initial four Baha’i months of this year total $1.2 million. The National Spiritual Assembly deeply appreciates the vision of the friends who are regularly contributing to the National Fund.

Since the Faith was first brought to this country, extraordinary achievements have been the hallmark of the American Baha’i community.

We now face a glorious new challenge—the resolve of the Continental Board of Counselors and the National Spiritual Assembly of an early completion of the National Baha’i Fund’s $1.5 million pledge to the Universal House of Justice.

In the past few months Baha’is around the world have been defining objectives, setting goals, and affirming their world-embracing vision. As a result, the Six Year Plan promises to be a fitting beginning to the fourth epoch of the Formative Age of the Faith.

An important victory that will distinguish the first year of the Plan willbe the completion by December of the pledge to the Universal House of Justice—a victory made possible by the sustained sacrifice of thousands of individual believers intent on ushering in Baha’u’llah’s World Order.

rejoice with

“Rejoice, therefore, O denizens of America,

exceeding gladness.”

The promise of peace The Challenge of ACTION

“The National Fund must be firml established, generously supported and universally and continually upheld, for it is the prerequisite of future

progress and achievement.”

rmily

SHOGHI EFFENDI

TheNational Baha’i

Fund

Wilmette, IL 60091

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

The Jensens: Nothing can dampen their pioneer spirit

SW rioncenine

Jane and Paul Jensen have been pioneers for the past 10 years. Paul sold a lucrative business in Northbrook, Illinois, and Jane gave up a well-paying job as a teacher, and with the profits they took one U-Haul full of possessions, bought a Jeep and sailed off to the Bahamas.

Neither was permitted to work there on Andros Island. Paul took on the voluntary job of remodel ing the Baha’i National Center in Nassau while he and Jane tutored their two teen-aged daughters,

Karen and Susan, through high school courses.

During the two years that they lived on the island they held countless firesides and deepenings and found many people who became Baha’ is.

When Paul was elected to the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahamas, the Jensens moved to Nassau where their daughters finished high school while Jane and Paul served the Faith in many capacities.

Auxiliary Board members Eunice Braun and Javidukht Khadem @front row, right, and second from right), Steven and Rebecca Johnston, Jeff and Fariba Albert, and Will van den Hoonaard were among the special guests who spoke to prospective pioneers June 19-22 during a Pioneer

National Center in Wilmette, Illinois. Those attending the Institute were preparing to pioneer to the Philippines, Dominica, Thailand, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Hong Kong, Korea, Pakistan, Zambia, Southeast Asia, Africa, and a Native American Reservation.

Training Institute at the Bahá’í

THE SIX YEAR PLAN Goals for International Assistance

Goals assignment Goals for sending pioneers and traveling teachers and the provision of manpower for assisting in development projects ... will be assigned by the World Center once it has received assessments _ from all National Spiritual Assemblies regarding their potentials and the needs in these areas. Consideration will then be given to announcing a pioneer call to the Bahd’{ world. (Note: This will probably take place after November 1986.) International pioneers International pioneers are encouraged to persevere in this highly valued service, for pioneering has been a primary means for the spread and establishment of the Cause throughout the world. Although many goals may now be filled by homefront pioneering, the need for international pioneers remains, particularly for believers with specific capacities, such as: © to assist in proclaiming the Faith and establishing sound public relations,

in building and consolidating communities in remote areas,

in deepening the faith and knowledge of the believers,

in support of the special requirements of a widening variety of

social and economic development projects, © publishing trusts,

audio-visual activities, and so on.

Resident teaching projects In some countries, economic instability, restrictive immigration policies, civil unrest and other problems make it difficult for pioneers to earn a living. In such countries consideration should be given to the value of resident teaching projects lasting for a few months, or even for a year or two. ... Such projects permit the resident teacher to give full time and attention to a particular need of the Cause without concern for settling and obtaining work which, by the very nature and character of pioneering, are priorities usually imposed upon pioneers. Traveling teachers Traveling teachers, including youth who may be able to offer for short periods, also have an important part to play. ... Manpower for development projects Development projects may call for pioneers with special skills or for visits by skilled believers to advise and train local Baha’is ... (This can) be combined with general pioneering and traveling teaching assistance. —International Teaching Center

After four years in the Bahamas they left the country to renew their visas, and found to their dismay that the government would not allow them to return.

When they learned that a family was needed for caretaker work at the House of Worship in Panama they jumped at the chance, even though they would not be paid for their efforts but would be given a place to live free of charge near the Temple.

During the five years that the Jensens have been in Panama they have sacrificed time, energy and talent to beautify the grounds of the Temple and carry out other projects.

Jane directs the Temple choir and is host to countless visitors and dignitaries. Paul remodeled their living quarters, cleaned and grouted the roof and dome of the Temple, and was in charge of building a large tutorial school for the Guaymi Indians, teaching the native people to build clay bricks for the side of the school.

Paul was also in charge of building the new Baha’i radio station in Panama and is supervising the construction of a new road to the House of Worship.

Paul has served on the National Spiritual Assembly of Panama for five years.

The Jensens have ‘‘adopted”’ a young Panamanian/American girl who lives with them while going to school. She sometimes helps Jane

Jane and Paul Jensen, pioneers to Panama.

try to consolidate the 18 local Assemblies that Jane is working with in the Temple area.

Susan Jensen has married a Bahamian and lives in Florida,

while Karen is working on a degree in Spanish.

The Jensens hope to remain in the pioneer field as long as possible.

Letter from Fiji describes bounties of pioneering, encourages friends to consider travel teaching

The following letter is from Dale, Diana, Dana and Meriah Hudson, pioneers to Fi

We have been in Fiji for four and a half years now, in spite of an impossible situation of not having work for two years, problems with our children’s education, hepatitis, meningitis, and other assorted conditions familiar to pioneers the world over.

It was that period of time when the inspiring, informative Pioneer Institute run by the International Goals Committee ended and Baha’u’llah’s examination began. However, this passed, and life has become more fruitful than it ever has been or could have been before.

Pioneering is so glorious, really—it is a way to sacrifice every day, every moment for Baha’w'lláh. It is a way to practice our main purpose of life as Bahá’ísthat of promoting the oneness of mankind. Anyway, we thank God every day for the blessing and bounty of being allowed to stay at our post.

As we all know as Baha’is, each of us us has unique talents and abilities. We have never realized this so much, however, as since we’ve been pioneering.

Because we have seen, for example, one or two traveling teachers come here, many times a widow, ‘a retired couple, a youth en route to his university abroad, a Chinese or Persian, two women traveling together, each because of his devotion and loving kindas lifted the spirits of the is and renewed their zeal, even in a short time.

It is a wise traveling teacher who realizes that the greatest pilgrimage is to relieve the sorrow

laden heart.

I hope that some people will read this and become inspired to travel teach, especially to remote places that don’t get many vi! itors. And when you go, you may find yourself preparing a special dinner for a busy, tired pioneer family, or mending a school uniform, or visiting a family with whom you can hardly communicate, and can only smile warmly at each other and enjoy their baby.

But you are a servant of the servants, and the love, encouragement and good news you share with the friends in other areas will surely strengthen the Faith wher

ever you go.

And it is really meeting members of your true family you didn’t know before. We Baha’is have family all over the world we haven’t even met yet.

I would also like to add that those who can’t travel but are supporting projects in other countries, preparing deepening materials, etc., or simply involved in Baha’i activities on the homefront, are inspiring and helping Baha’is all over the world.

Whatever we do for Baha’u’llah, out of love, devotion and self-sacrifice, perfumes the whole world with a wonderful fragrance.

More than $150 was raised for the National Baha’i Fund at the first Williamson County (Texas) Sports Fest and Bake Sale. Three teams participated in a volleyball tournament which was won by the

Bahá’í community of Austin (pictured). The trophy, to be handed to next year’s winner by this year’s winning team, was provided by the Baha’is of Williamson Counyy.

[Page 7]Youth must redeem martyrs’ sacrifices

As everyone may now know, our brethren in the Cradle of our beloved Faith are once again being subjected to the most severe tests one can withstand. One of those brave, steadfast souls was 15-year-old Payman Subhani who was beaten and stoned to death. This young soul had the privilege of sacrificing his life so that the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh might further advance.

Now we must fulfill our destiny as ‘‘living sacrifices’’ for the Cause. Baha’i youth must arise to teach so that Payman, and others like him in Iran, will not have given their lives in vain.

One of the ways in which to vindicate this bloodshed is to arise to participate in the Mighty Mobilization. On January 3, 1984, the Universal House of Justice, addressing the Bahd’{ youth of the world, expressed the need for ‘a mighty mobilization of teaching activities reflecting regularity in the patterns of service rendered by young Baha’is.’’ To help you in your efforts to respond to that call, the National Teaching Committee is setting up 95 teaching projects in the U.S., and the National Youth Committee has set a goal of at least 1,000 youth participants in projects this summer.

In basic terms, it is no longer merely our privilege, it is our duty to spread this glorious Message. In fact, the Guardian says:

“In the Aqdas Bahá’u’lláh considers teaching as a spiritual obligation imposed upon every devoted believer and servant of His Faith. Should the friends become fully conscious of this duty and arise to do their share, this Cause will soon permeate every home throughout the world and the Kingdom of God will be established.””

Evidence of the validity of Shoghi Effendi’s statement will be made manifest by a goal that has been established for the Six Year Plan. That goal, phenomenal proof of the advent of the establishment of God’s Kingdom on earth, will require the steadfastness and dedication which only Baha’i youth such as Payman Subhani, Mona Mahmudnizhad, and you (yes, you!) have had to possess. This goal is none other than exponential growth of the Faith throughout the Six Year Plan. In other words, we wholeheartedly expect to double the number of declarations each year of the Plan over the previous year. In quantitative terms, that means we will have 10,000 declarants this year, or twice the number we had in 1985, and foresee 20,000 new believers in 1987. With this process continuing for the entire Six Year Plan, the Baha’i community will have embraced some 630,000 new believers!

With the knowledge that EVERY home can and will be permeated with the love of Baha’u’llh, we must now die in ourselves so that He may live in us and help us to achieve the great things expected of us.

3 Texas youth respond to Iran’s gift of roses with 16-state teaching trip

Remember the roses from the Iranian Baha’is, purchased from money raised by the Baha’i prisoners in Iranian jails and sent to our National Convention in memory of the martyred and missing Baha’ is and in gratitude for the efforts of the American Baha’i community ...

“‘And now our eager hearts are once again imploring and beseeching you that the servants of the Cause of God all over the globe and in particular the Iranian friends, our well-loved fellow countrymen—men and women who have drunk (to a greater or lesser degree) from the same cup

we drink from and who have now left—that you dear friends will rise and delight ... our hearts in compensation for the services that we are prevented from rendering

IT’S NOT TOO LATE! There is still time to participate in a teaching project this summer. The summer projects are depending on YOUth.

Even if you have only one weekend free, there’s a place for you. Check the teaching page for project sites!

And even if you’re short of cash, you can still go! Talk to your Assembly and then phone the National Youth Committee office (312-869-9039) for any additional scholarship funds necessary. (Half of these funds are earmarked for minority projecteers—youth other than whites or Persians.)

Arise and be ‘“‘One of a Thousand”!

Notice to travelers

Baha’is traveling outside the U.S., please contact the International Goals Committee, c/ Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312869-9039). Two months’ notice is desirable.

because of the conditions prevail ing here. ...

In response to this moving gesture by the Iranian Baha’is, three youth from Graham, Texas, have arisen this summer to fulfill their destiny in the unfoldment of the new World Order. The National Youth Committee recently received this letter from them:

Dear Bahá’í Friends,

Allah’u’Abha! At the National Convention the Iranian Baha’is sent many roses and wrote a letter of love thanking us for our help. They asked us to keep teaching, so their sacrifices will not be in vain.

Taking the rose of their lives and their message, my parents, sister, cousin, and I will go travel teaching throughout 16 states in America and southeastern parts of Canada. We will spread the word of God and raise the flag of the Greatest Name.

Enclosed is a picture of (from left to right) my cousin Martha, my sister Leyla, and me, Shoaleh. Maybe we will visit you.

Sincerely,

Shoaleh Hedayati Graham, Texas

On June 8, several Bahá’í youth JSrom southern New Jersey planted 10 trees at Cooper River Park in Cherry Hill. With the help of a Sew adults, the service project was

The American Baha’i / August 1986 / 7

f ? a complete success. This summer, the youth plan to help answer the National Youth Committee’s call for 1,000 projecteers. Pictured

(left to right) are Sean Mclihenny,

Afsoon Taheri, Stacie Mcllhenny, Ed Williams, Karen Williams, Pam Strong and Omid Taheri.

Richmond host to Regional Youth Conference

YOUTH

About 185 youth gathered April 4-6 in Richmond, Virginia, for the sixth Regional Youth Conference sponsored by the Baha’is of Richmond and the Regional Youth Committee of the Atlantic Coast states.

The conference theme, ‘‘One Thing and Only One Thing ...’” was taken from a passage by the Guardian in which he concludes that the progress of the Faith depends entirely upon “‘the extent to which our own inner life and private character mirror forth ... the splendor of those eternal prin ciples proclaimed by Baha’u’llah.””

The featured speakers were Counselor Eloy Anello; Linda Ahdieh, a member of the National Youth Committee; Dr. Roy Jones, director of the Louis

Gregory Baha’i Institute; Shiva Tavana, the National Spiritual Assembly’s United Nations representative; and Gayle GonzalezJohnson, a Bahd’{ youth from Raleigh, North Carolina. Entertainers included Doug Cameron of Ontario, Canada; Mary Davis and Wilford Johnson of Black Mountain, North Caro Baha’i among 643 in Florida honored by Duke University

Brian Raisler, a Baha’i preyouth from Casselberry, Florida, was.one of 643 seventh-grade students in Florida honored June 10 at Stetson University in Duke University’s annual Talent Identification Program (TIP).

The young people were singled out for having obtained scores on at least one section of the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) equal to or greater than the scores obtained by 50 per cent of college-bound high school seniors.

All participants in the TIP ceremony received certificates of distinction, and the high scorers received scholarships and book awards.

Brian was honored for his high score on the verbal portion of the SAT.

lina; Lea Gentile of Mount Airy, North Carolina; and Van Gilmer and family of Fort Washington, Maryland.

A unique part of the conference was a Saturday afternoon ‘‘program’”’ in which groups were dispersed for teaching and service projects in the Richmond area.

While some youth went street

sixth Regional Youth Conference

teaching to invite residents to a public fireside/concert that evening, others helped man a Baha’i booth at the “Home for the Homeless’’ Fair at Virginia Commonwealth University, and about 25, helped by city employees and equipment, collected more than 200 bags of trash from a wooded drive.

Wilford Johnson entertains at the held April 4-6 in Richmond, Vir

ginia.

Colorado youth compile excellent record

In the small ranching town of Mancos, Colorado, youth who are enrolled Baha’is or have Baha’i family members are establishing a

record of ‘‘excellence in all things,’’ especially school activities.

During the 1985-86 school year, they were consistently on the honor roll with grades of 3.70 or above.

These honor students are Jennifer and Cari North, daughters of Fred and Jean North; Lois and Joe Skaggs, daughter and son of Sine Skaggs and Mark Applequist; Todd Sehnert, son of Kathy and Lloyd Sehnert; and Julie Randles, granddaughter of the late Nelle Lynn.

Lois Skaggs was president of the Student Council, and Jennifer North was president of the National Honor Society. Both received awards in math and science

from the Society of Women Engineers.

As a graduating senior, Lois was presented the High School Merit Award, chosen by a vote of the teachers as an outstanding student in terms of grade average and contribution to the school.

Jennifer is the first student from Mancos High School to receive a Boettcher Foundation scholarship, granting full tuition at the school of her choice within Colorado. She plans to attend the University of Colorado.

Jennifer is chairman of the Four Corners Baha’ Youth Club, and Lois is secretary. Jennifer also serves as secretary of the Colorado West Baha’i Schools Committee.

Jennifer’s speech as high school class valedictorian addressed the necessity for world peace.

ATTENTION all Baha’i College Club members or those interested in establishing a club on your campus: Fall packets will be sent out in mid-September. If you do not receive your packet by mid-October, please call Carey Crimmel at the National Youth Committee office, 312-869-9039.

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

The Baha’i ‘community of Concord, California, sponsored a City League volleyball team, the ‘Bahá’í Servers,’ which finished the season in second place with a 6-1 record while increasing unity and friendship within the community. Pictured are (standing left to right) Coach Jeff Price, Brian Burriston, Donna Burriston, Pam

Maddock and ‘Hooshmand Nikoui-Ghamsari, and (kneeling left to right) Massoud Fanaian, Ziba Fanaian and Tammy Slezack. Other team members were Kitty Toloui, Hugh. Toloui, Tom Young, Amin Rafaat, Beau RaSaat, Iraj Farzaneh, Hooshmand ‘Naraghi and cheerleader Mary Jo Goss (who took the photograph).

Many activities keep things humming at New Jersey Regional Baha’i School

The New Jersey Regional Baha’i School has been holding a fall and spring session each year since the fall of 1982 with typically 150-200 people—Baha’ is and non-Baha’is—from the Atlantic Coast states of New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and Virginia attending.

The school supports and fosters all forms of Baha’i-oriented education, not just two weekends a year. There is a permanent staff including a Children’s Program Director/Task Force.

The school has never taken money from the National Fund; in fact, through contributions, money has always been sent to the Fund after each session.

Encouraged by the National Teaching Committee, the school is starting an endowment fund to initiate growth during the Six Year Plan.

The spring 1986 theme was “World Peace.’’ Among the highlights were talks on peace as a

local issue; the Baha’i community representing the diversity of the human family; strengthening the Baha’i community; blending the spiritual and material aspects of the Faith; and family life and consultation.

Other activities include extensive children’s classes and activities; dawn group prayers; work shops; folk dancing; evening entertainment; and community service.

This year, on June 14, about 10 youth spent an afternoon cleaning and landscaping the Municipal Building in Andover, New Jersey.

Town officials inspected the work and commended the youth, indicating that such volunteer work was rare in that township.

The School Committee is keenly aware of the impact the weekend activities have on the local community. During this year’s spring session the public was invited to a Friday evening folk dance led by Casper Hossfeld.

Peace Symposium set in Southern Illinois

Plans are being completed by an ad hoc committee of the Spiritual Assemblies of Alton and Edwardsville, Illinois, for a Peace Symposium to be held October 24-25 at Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville.

The purpose of the symposium is to present the Universal House of Justice’s peace statement to university administrators, faculty and the general public, to create a greater awareness of its message, and to encourage an open dialogue with other peace-oriented groups.

Several keynote speakers will present ideas on how to move closer to world peace.

Included will be in-depth discussions of ‘‘The Promise of World Peace”’ including the elimi nation of prejudice, racism, universal education, the equality of men and women, and the disparity between rich and poor.

Also on the program are workshops, panel discussions, music, films and art.

The Ramada Inn in Alton is of

fering special rates for the event, and some hospitality can be provided with advance arrangements.

For more information, contact Mary Lou McLaughlin, 618-4653404, Reuben Busby, 618-4662466, or the Spiritual Assembly of Alton, P.O. Box 711, Alton, IL 62002.

Baha’is take part in UNA meeting

Baha’is took part February 12 in a community meeting on human rights sponsored by the United Nations Association of Davenport, Iowa.

Among the three panelists who discussed the topic ‘‘Human Rights Progress—Fact or Illusion?”’ was Auxiliary Board member Dan Himes.

About 30 people, several of whom accepted copies of the Universal House of Justice’s peace statement, attended the meeting, which was held at the Unitarian Church in Davenport.

80 eager children’s class teachers attend Louhelen training conference

= EDUCATION l :

Enthusiasm and emotions ran high at the four and one-half day National Children’s Teacher Training Conference held July 2-7 at the Louhelen Baha’i School near Davison, Michigan.

Some 80 children’s class teachers attended workshops on the following topics:

“Key Lessons for Five and Six Year-Olds’’ (conducted by Keith Boehme), ‘‘Music Education’’ (Mimi McClellan and Charlotte Richardson), ‘‘Learning Styles/ Teaching Techniques’? (Dennis Smith), and ‘Junior Youth’ (Joy Sylvester).

General presentations were on “Using the Creative Word’’ (Melanie Smith), ‘‘Preparing Environments’”’ (Beth Diehl), and ‘‘The Oneness of Mankind: New Perspectives’’ (Richard Thomas).

There were opportunities for participants to get together in small and large group consultation sessions to discuss a number of issues in child education.

Consensus was reached at the

Archives is seeking letters from Guardian to Elizabeth Cheney

The National Baha’i Archives is trying to locate original letters from the Guardian to Elizabeth Cheney, an early pioneer to South America who died in the Dominican Republic in 1959.

If anyone has any information about Ms. Cheney, her relatives or descendants, he or she is asked to contact the National Baha’i Archives, Baha’ National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

final conference session concerning recommendations to the National Spiritual Assembly to help ensure meeting child education goals for the Six Year Plan.

The National Teaching Committee, which co-sponsored the event with the Louhelen Baha’i School, plans to make teacher training materials from the conference available for use in local

communities.

A similar conference is planned for July 1987, as well as regional conferences for teacher training and for sharing children’s curricular materials.

Local Spiritual Assemblies will be receiving information about children’s teacher training materials and plans for future conferences and workshops.

The Spiritual Assembly of Jacksonville Beach, Florida, recently presented five books to the local public library. The presentation to

head librarian Sally Blackwell (left) was made on behalf of the Assembly by Liz Stradtner and Lee Stradtner.

strives to:

developing all of the child's hidden talents and virtues.

Brilliant Star 2"

Brilliant Star, formerly knownas Chil Way, isa publication of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha's of the United States

It is published bi monthly. People of all ages s and nationalities enjoy Brilliant Star both 3 for their reading pleasure and as a source of 3

develop the child’s awareness of the oneness of humanity and the importance of eliminating prejudice,

fe increase the child’s conscious awareness of his spiritual nature and the need for its development,

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[Page 9]

Family Unity Night (Fun)

FIRST WEEK OF SEPTEMBER: ‘Izzat (Might), September 8. Thought Sor the weel let thine heart be afraid of none except God.””—Baha’wllah. Prayer: Bahá’í Prayers (1982 ed.), pp. 128-29. Lesson: Read and discuss one or more of the suggested lesson materials. This week, “fear of God’ will be investigated in the Writings. 1. Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, pp. 27-28, 29, 32, 136. 2. Gleanings, p. 272. 3. Prayers and Meditations, p. 188. 4. References for parents on teaching the fear of God in Bahd’{ Education: A Compilation, pp. 6, 7-8, 23-24. Activity: 1. Discuss fears that we have and how these can be overcome by relying on God through prayer and obedience to the teachings. 2. If your child is having difficulty with a particular fear, check with your local librarian for a book that deals with that fear. Refreshments: Seasonal vegetables and fruits. Have the children take part in choosing and preparing them.

SECOND WEEK OF SEPTEMBER: World Peace Day, September 21. Thought for the week: ‘‘... when a thought of war comes oppose it by a stronger thought of peace. A thought of hatred must be destroyed by a more powerful thought of love. ...”"—‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Prayer: Bahá’í Prayers, pp. 102-3. Lesson: Read and discuss one or more of the suggested lesson materials: 1. Gleanings, pp. 249-50. 2. Bahd’! World Faith, pp. 231-34, 363. 3. Foundations of World Unity, pp. 14-17. 4. Brilliant ‘Star magazine, May-June 1986, pp. 4-7. Activity: 1. One of the projects for the children’s peace campaign is to create illustrations, stories and poems for a book entitled Links for Peace that might be considered for ion. If published, it could be presented to public officials and Illustrations, articles or poems on the theme of peace can be sent to “Children for Peace,’ Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL €.991. NOTE: Baha’i World Faith, p. 231 or 284, may help suggest ideas for an illustrated story or poem. 2. After reading the story of Sarah Farmer's vision of peace and the Green Acre school (Lesson No. 4 above), draw/paint a picture of what Green Acre might look like in the future. Refreshments: Family's choice!

THIRD WEEK OF SEPTEMBER: World Peace Day. Thought for the week: “It is not our wish to lay hands on your kingdoms. Our mission is to seize and possess the hearts of men. Upon them the eyes of Bahd are fastened.” —Bahd’u'lláh, Kitáb-i-Aqdas, p. 18. Prayer: Baha’i Prayers (1982), p. 101. Lesson: Read and discuss one or more of the suggested lesson materials: 1. The Hidden Words, p. 5., No. 8 (Arabic). 2. Paris Talks, pp. 28-30. 3. The Divine Art of Living, pp. 113-14, Nos. 12, 13. 4. Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, pp. 20-22. 5. “The Promise of World Peace,” pp. 2-3, para. 3-6. (Also recommended as sources: “Peace: More Than an End to War,” ‘World Peace and World Government,” and “Thoughts: Education for Peace and One World,” all available from the Baha’i Publishing Trust.) Activity: Make up your own story. Starting with the opening ‘Once upon a time there was a peaceful kingdom ...,” let each family member add ideas about what a peaceful world would be like. Write them down as you go, and when you’re done, choose the favorite ideas and place them in a hand-made book, one line per page. Illustrate the pages with cut-outs and drawings. Save the book and perhaps add to it from time to time. Refreshments: Apple pie and ice cream.

FOURTH WEEK OF SEPTEMBER: Mashiyyat (Will), September 27. Thought for the week: ‘The maturity of the gift of understanding is made manifest through consultation.””"—The Universal House of Justice, in “The Promise of World Peace.” Prayer: Bahá’í Prayers (1982), pp. 71-72. Lesson: Read and discuss one or more of the suggested lesson materials: 1. “The Promise of World Peace,” p. 16, para. 2. 2. The Hidden pp. 73-74,

Words, p. 3, No. 2 (Arabic). 3. Foundations of World Unity, 76. 4. Comprehensive Deepening Program Action,” pp. 7-8. 5. Principles of Bahd’! Administration, pp. 42-43. (Other recommended sources: “A Compilation on Consultation” by the Universal House of Justice.) Activity: Consult about some possible plans or goals for your family. Refreshments: Cottage cheese and fresh pineapple; fruit juice.

Louhelen to hold second Elderhostel session for senior citizens in October

The Louhelen Baha’i School will hold its second Elderhostel session October 5-11.

Elderhostel is an educational program for senior citizens which holds six-day programs at educational institutions throughout North America and Europe.

The sessions employ a format much like that of a Baha’i summer or winter school. There are three courses and social and _recreational activities. In addition, a marvelous spirit pervades Elderhostel sessions that makes them very special.

Classes at the session in October will be ‘Religion and the Human Condition’’ taught by Dr. David Earle; ‘‘World Peace: More Than

an End to War,”’ and ‘‘Exploring the Natural World,” taught by Jennifer Ward, a wildlife expert for the Genesee County Extension Service.

The Louhelen Council encourages senior citizens to bring non-Baha’i friends to the session with them. The courses will be based on Baha’i principles, although they won’t draw directly from the Baha’i Writings, and those who are interested in investigating the Faith may attend an optional fireside one evening.

For information about registering for the course, please phone the Louhelen Baha’i School, 313653-5033, or the Elderhostel office in Boston, 617-426-8056.

John and Debbie Wehrman (right) of White Salmon, Washington, shared their pilgrimage adventure with Bahá’í youth during a recent retreat in Wasco, Oregon. The

The American Baha’i / August 1986 / 9

youngsters were captivated while listening for about an hour to stories of the Wehrmans’ 10-day trip to the World Center in Haifa

which brought them into contact with other cultures and helped open their eyes to the oneness of humankind.

115 women from U.S., Canada strengthen ties at Louhelen School’s first Women’s Conference

> EDUCATION

By SHIVA TAVANA

On July 27-29, the Louhelen Baha’i School in Davison, Michigan, held its first Women’s Conference.

Its purpose was to strengthen one’s commitment to the advancement of women and to increase his awareness of the diversity of responsibilities that women can assume in society and of the barriers that prevent them from fulfilling those responsibilities.

The conference was attended by 115 women including a strong Canadian contingent from Ontario.

Dr. Jane Faily, chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly of Canada, presented a keynote address in which she discussed the historical oppression of women and outlined steps they can take to become empowered.

The pain of oppression, Dr. Faily explained, gives each of us a choice between becoming crippled by anger, bitterness and apathy, or becoming empowered through compassion, detachment and growth.

The object of our worship, which is the source of our power, she said, is God, Whom we know through His attributes: justice, compassion, love, wisdom.

In a second keynote address on “Women of Color in America,” Dr. Gwen Lewis provided an his Recognition ceremony

On June 8, more than 30 students ranging in age from 18 months to 12 years took part in a Children’s Recognition Day ceremony at the Wilhelm Baha’i School in Teaneck, New Jersey.

The program was sponsored by the Wilhelm Baha’i School Council under the guidance of the National Teaching Committee.

torical overview of the plight and oppression of black women and their double minority status as victims of racism and sexism.

She discussed the results of her research in oral histories of black American women and their lives, and shared stories of some of them to illustrate their love and spiritual intuitiveness.

Workshops were held on a variety of important topics: the Greatest Holy Leaf, the role of women in peace, women raising a voice in consultative meetings, careers, single parenting, health issues, the family, and single women.

The workshop on women and peace discussed the involvement of women in local community activities for peace, drawing upon the statements of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá that ‘‘when women participate fully and equally in the affairs of the world, enter confidently and capably the great arena of laws and politics, war will cease; for woman will be the obstacle and hindrance to it. This is true and without doubt. ...,”” and, ‘‘...the new age will be an age less masculine and more permeated with the

feminine ideals, or to speak more exactly, will be an age in which the masculine and feminine elements of civilization will be more properly balanced.”

Saturday evening was highlighted by an arts program that drew on the rich diversity of talented women who presented their creative forms of communication through poetry, mime and song.

Dramatic readings were used to illustrate the Baha’i writings on the equality of men and women, and Roger White’s poetry on the Persian poetess Táhirih and the American poetess Emily Dickinson.

Moving presentations by mime Sharon Nesbit-Davis depicted a woman’s life cycle, and the feelings of a woman whose son has been killed in a war.

Specific recommendations made during the closing plenary session will be forwarded to the National Spiritual Assembly.

Tapes of the talks by Dr. Faily and Dr. Lewis are available for $6 each (postage and handling included) from the Louhelen Baha’ School, c/o ‘‘Reflections,’’ 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423.

Baha’i, 13, enrolled in Georgia college

Quddús Varner, a 13-year-old Baha’i from Griffin, Georgia, has become the youngest student ever to enroll at Georgia State University in Atlanta, according to the school’s admissions office.

With his tuition paid by the Kelsey Property Committee Scholarship, Quddús is taking courses this summer in algebra.

“In a math test sponsored by the Math League of Georgia,”’ says his high school math teacher, Aqueel Ahmed, ‘‘Quddús ranked No. 1 in Spalding County, second in the region (nine counties), and third in the state.’”

On seeing that his standardized test scores were well into the college level, his parents, William, and Margaret Varner, approached Georgia State about the possibility

of enrolling Quddús in the school. The answer was yes, and Quddús, who is also the youngest member of the Northwest Georgia Baha’i{ Youth Committee, was enrolled as a ‘‘summer scholar.”

He’ll receive college credit for his courses at Georgia State before returning to his ninth grade class in the fall.

An article about Quddús, headlined ‘13-Year-Old Griffin Math Whiz to Attend Georgia State,’’ appeared June 16 in the Griffin Daily News.

The article points out that Quddús and his parents are Baha’is, mentions their pioneering in Africa, and says Quddús ‘‘attributes much of his success to his religion.” [Page 10]10 / The American Baha’i / August 1986

TEACHING PROJECTS ’86

Northeastern States

The Gathering Montague Center area, MA Ongoing Contact: Jeanne Kendrick (617) 367-2363 teaching The Lowell Project es Lowell, MA Project Fishkill Town May 26-Sept 1 Fishkill Town, NY Contact: Lorraine mber 27- Nov. 29 Matthews. Contact: Fuad Payman (617) 459-1604 (914) 831-3627 teaching & consolidation Operation Daybreak 4 project sites Projectile Greater Boston & So. MA New York in Newfane/Wilson Summer 1986 , Contact: Larry McCollough Contact: Jeanne (617) 444- 3e (716) 825-5457 teaching & consolidation teaching & consolidation

West Hartford Teaching Project Elmwood Community Center

The Papi Project July-August Danbury, Contact: Janet Rothman Contact Morgan Waker *2)2-8809

Project Huntington 6 hoch ee

Project Bergenfield/Dumont Huntington, NY peeked Aumist 88 to Apri 88” Cebtack Veni Raj (203) 746-4314 Contact: Roger Harrison STO a1) service

(201) 385-8 ‘enjamin Kaufman (201)384-6799

Central States

(516)423-7491

Project Dawnbreakers

Spirit of the Rose Eagle Butte

June 15 - Sept] Contact: Phil Castillo (605) 964-8592

teaching

Amoz Gioson Ongoing Contact: Edwin Roberts

(605) 747-2302 Say coy

Amoz Gibson Project. ————__

Nebraska - Ongoing Contact: Kay Webster (402) 837-5736 consolidation and spanish teaching

Victory Harvest ansas Ongoing Contact: Phyllis Medrano (316) 662-8243 teaching & consolidation

MN area Contact: Bob Johnson (218) 751-0317

Bemidji,

Project Shakopee Indian Reservation Shakopee, MN Summer/Fall 1986

Contact: Eileen Johnson (612)432-8328

Toledo Baha’i teaching Project Toledo, Ohio July-September 1986

7 Contact: Behrooz Modarai (419) 381-3931

Danville, Illinois

LSA of Danville ‘Ongoing

Contact: Rachel Weller (217) 344-6182T teaching

Ilinois Teaching Project southern Illinois June “August vem

rontact: yu McLaughlin (618) 465-3404 fe teaching & music

Victory Harvest

Kansas City, MO going

Contact: Baha’i Center

(816)241-9478

teaching

Send coupons to the National Teaching Committee, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, Illinois, 60091; or call at (312) 869-9039

A A SS AY SS

‘ Community Projects I Teaching Project Guidelines } Project Participants

I Yes! Our community would like to hold a I Please sendus a copy of Teaching Project | Yes! | would like to arise to teach this summer. I

I teaching or service project this summer. I Guidelines to help us plan, carry out, and I Please send me more information.

I I evaluate our project. I

I Name ofGommuniy : ; Name es

I Contact Person 8 Il Name me a 1 I

| Address of Contact Person If Address i ir | City. State, Zip i

City, State, Zip i City , State, Zip Fa : Phone "

I es ——— ] I Dates available:

1e I I Please include with your order a check for $2.00 | Financial assistance needed: (circle) yes/no

I Project type: (circle) service / teaching / other

per copy payable to "Baha’i Services Fund".

Projects | am interested in:

| SS A SS

=e eee ee ee ee ee lL ee ee [Page 11]The American Baha’i / August 1986 / 11

Booth at W. Washington State Fair Sept 51, 1986 Contact: Anita ta Sheldrick

Western States

(206) 845-3892 Umatilla Service Project

Cel Pcezon| Teaching Project Uma Reenatee OR

ee a rade Unity and ae Project Contact {dele McConnel

Goa TS On April 37 , mike 2 Lapwai Service Project

é SOS oor Lindstrom Gowan REE Perce Reservation ae spokane, WA, Contact: Ferris & Linda Paisano

Local middle & high schools Contact: Laura Lee Notley (208) 843-7745

Sune field, na rere as i

Contact: Gi ae er eae con utatlon Montana Youth Service Project

I feaching Youth

Nos on Cheyenne Reservation Contact: ita Lee Hagen

is (406) 477 Tuolumne Me-Wuk Indian Project . al pene re sec oray ony og : Aziz Project = po : Contact? Salimata Dia & Fatou Gueye as i Grea ceca ato ea? West oP Cally Contact: Dale & Anne Sollars Site Colorado si 4 . (208) 785-4495 30 Serra = Contact: Flin Griffith Service patie ros (303) 874.4970 pig a Eby yess Hopi Reservation pout Project SS ag] Hopi ey Elvabeth Da -—__ Contact: Elizabeth Dahe aor Pavon Project = 4533 ees Nally a Fit AZ 85031 Contact Ann Miller Navajo-Hopi Teaching Project (408) 688-0221 Navajo Reservation service teacl Corace Te I ah: Peace Scroll Campaign (Go) 120-303 pice ie re California Trail of Light Oe ¢ summer fo ealicraial 7 Contact: Rosanne Groger lollywood proclamation OR TEa 647-0700 Third Sunday of the month Annual A aed ee eae Late December - Janua 1987 213) 654-0356 AKISA. Contact: Richard Gurins ‘eaching & Consolidation Senay Ana, CA (505) 437-0173

; goin

Fein Project aoe et ContaenAdelina Browne teaching & consolidation lor 2 Sunday of Month (714) 554-6846 Project Raul Pavon Cosace Gayle Scott Contact: Laurie Cantwell LA Workshop S*TVCe So. Arizona Teaaching Project Phoenix. (209) 264-7393 py 654-5109 West Coast Tuscon to the border Ongoing teaching & consolidation ‘eaching sumer 1986 ongoin; Contacte Martinez

Contact: Lois Willows (213) 933-8281 teaching & cons. through drama

Tabarsi Western

eae Dan Anderson (602)624-7479

(602) 936-8114 teaching & consolidation

Toth sc july - August ‘ hes hac Ea Corwin South > An Sawant outhern States late summer/fall teaching & consolidation Contact: John Simpson (404) 266-1 129 Promise of World Peace Project Project West Virginia ispanic & Asian-American Cable & Kanawha Counties, WV West Virginia Yellow Rose neighborhoods August 15-18 August Jetober East Texas Contact: Parisa Rey man Misagi Rrelesy oe August 8-24 (DAA GE S226 oe Gis 3) Mary! tact: Andre'nea King Weiner (304)523-0114 Ong ae (409) 886-4853 Contact: Jeremy Lauer service (301) 263-720: nee ean Youth Project ilmington, DI Heart of Texas July 28" August 3 central Texas Contact: Sandra Todd Gasoline, (302)762-3529 Gis 492- rayichas Payman Sobhani Project Ne uit Vi inlay Great Texas Service Project Cie Coenen ns Washi ape summer fe Contact Sonat S01 380 339-7214 Contact: Shervin Haw! aay ev ley Greg (301) 424-764

unity & service

Olinga Teaching Proj Falls Church, VA

Ongoing Contact Jamshid Amini (702) 820-0610

Aoeee pata) Restoration teaching & consolidation Austin, T foes ‘Gynt ithia Mull (512) 83° oe Rak eR nol Muhájir Peace Foum cnt Service ace Unity, Assurance fol

of World Peace Ini Aogis September

Gainesville, FL Contact: Amber Spahn Cdatact James Perkins July-Dec 86 (803)838-5453 (804)432- -5038 cont Taylor Angus Cowan Project Seminole Co. FL Carolina Victory Train teaching Roms Carolina

Contacte Sam Williams (919) 679-2623

teaching & consolidation

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

Baha’i CROSSWORD

1 2

3 4 5

ACROSS

1. The Prophetic Cycle has ended, and Bahá’u’lláh has inaugurated the Cycle of 6. To direct an action toward purpose.

7. To rise high; attain a lofty state.

8. The new Prophet does not come to____ the spiritual teachings of the One before Him.

9. “The Holy Spirit Itself hath been generated through the agency of a single letter by this Most Great Spirit ...”” (Baha’willah, The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 109)

13. Faster than walking. 14. The Prophet of God seeks to the hearts of men.

18. The new World Order calls for an ________ change in presentday society as the basis for the unity of mankind.

19. Driving under the influence (abbrev.).

20. Reaction to unexpected pain (exclamation).

22. Recreational vehicle (abbrev.). 2A. Prison-city in which Baha’u’llah was incarcerated.

26. Salutation (male).

28. This is the first Cycle to produce a of Manifestations.

32. ‘‘The Ancient Beauty (Baha’u’llah) hath consented to be bound with that mankind may be released from its bondage.”” (Bahá’u’lláh, Gleanings,

p. 99)

33. “The Truth has now come.” (Gleanings, p. 60) 34. Baha'u'llah is the Promised One of all the S.

DOWN What justice should be. Sell (scrambled). To part with by accident. To go astray morally. To make an attempt. . District Attorney (abbrev.). 10. To cling to a contradiction is to make an in judgment. 11. “The principle of the Oneness of Mankind ... is no mere outburst of ignorant emotionalism or

and pious hope.”” (Shoghi Effendi, The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 42) 12. To make into law; decree. 15. Identification (abbrev.). 16. The fifth Baha’i month (Arabic), meaning ‘‘light.”” 17. Marked by distinct differences. 18. Fifteenth letter of the alpha Sy Rene

bet.

21. United Kingdom (initials). 23. Desire accompanied by the expectation of fulfillment.

25. The largest continent.

27. Present participle of verbs: tak__, mak___, lik___, etc. 29. To be in one place.

30. That is ...

31. Rural route (initials).

32. California (abbrev.).

Answers to this month’s puzzle are om page 26

1

A ¥

Bahá’ís from six communities in

east Texas and three in northern Louisiana got together May 18 in Karnack, Texas, as a prelude to the ‘town meeting’ in their newly

‘reorganized district for fellowship

=}

and to discuss the peace statement Srom the Universal House of Justice. Music and children’s classes were a part of the gathering.

Can you identify anyone in this picture? ~ § 1

( Archives needs to know both the names of those in this photograph and when

and where it was taken. If you have any information about it,

please write to the National Bahd’{

Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

Edward Getsinger Papers: small but interesting

Edward C. Getsinger, alongside his renowned wife, Lua, figured in some of the earliest American Baha’i history, and the Edward C. Getsinger Papers in the National Baha’i Archives, though a relatively small collection, contain several items of great interest to scholars.

Edward Getsinger became a Baha’i in 1897, and the Getsingers soon left for California where they interested Phoebe Hearst in the Baha’i Faith. They also helped organize the first Western pilgrimage to ‘Akká in 1898.

‘The Papers document the Getsingers’ role in fortifying the American Baha’i community during the trying days at the turn of

the century when the community was faced with Ibrahim Kheiralla’s defection.

Also in the Papers is Lua Getsinger’s detailed account of events in Haifa in 1914-15 when ‘Abdu’ lBaha’s life was in grave danger. Other manuscripts of general interest include:

“‘Shoghi Effendi at Beirut,’’ by the Dean of the American University, Bayard Dodge; ‘Extracts from Letters of Believers,” collected by Mary M. Rabb and containing reflections on living the life by American Baha’ is of 1911; and “‘Scientific Explanation of the Centre of the Covenant,’’ by Mr. Getsinger himself.

Mishkin Qalam, the calligrapher non pareil who had been imprisoned with Bahá’u’lláh, inscribed Prayers of the Blessed Beauty in a small notebook for Mr. Getsinger. He also executed art work with only his fingernails, on light card stock paper.

A perfectly detailed portrait of Edward Getsinger was done “while I looked on,” while various holy writings, and a nightingale in luxuriant bower are included in these astonishing fingernail drawings.

Finally, the Getsinger Papers contain more than 200 snapshots taken by Edward Getsinger in ‘Akká in 1899.

Sponsors should be within 50 miles of one

Volags provide many kinds of help to refugees

According to U.S. State Department regulations, sponsors of refugees should not be more than 50 miles from the local branch of a voluntary agency. The voluntary agencies (Volags) provide various kinds of admi rative, employment and financial help to the refugees, and if the refugees are farther than 50 miles from the nearest local presence of a Volag, it creates difficulties for all concerned.

This regulation does not apply to those sponsoring family members or relatives. Such sponsors should proceed as usual, completing a sponsorship form and returning it to the U.S. Baha’i Refugee Office as soon as possible.

In the case of Free Sponsors, however, they should be no farther than 50 miles from a Volag branch office in order to be the primary sponsor. There are Volag branch offices in all major cities and in many smaller cities as well. For information on the branch office nearest you, contact the State Refugee Coordinator in your state capital, or contact the Baha’i Refugee Office at the Baha’i National Center.

Those individuals who wish to sponsor, but who live more than 50 miles from a branch office, can still do so by providing assistance to Baha’i refugees who have al ready completed the initial 90-day resettlement period. Many refugees would like to settle permanently in goal areas once they have become acclimated to the U.S., but they may stili need the close assistance of other Baha’is or Baha’i institutions in the process of relocating and finding employment.

Once refugees have arrived in the U.S., their sponsors should contact the Baha’i Refugee Office

to inform them of the date of arrival, and then contact Mr. Naraghi at the Office of Membership and Records, Baha’i National Center (312-869-9039) to transfer their Baha’i membership to the American Baha’i community.

If you have any questions about the refugee process or how to go about sponsoring refugees, please contact the U.S. Baha’i Refugee Office at the above number. Thank you.

2nd Grand Canyon Baha’i Conference to focus on racial harmony, world peace

“Racial Harmony—A Key to World Peace”’ is the theme of the second Grand Canyon Baha’i Conference, to be held December 26-29 at the Civic Center in Phoenix, Arizona.

One of the goals of the conference is to attract more black, Spanish, Asian and Indian peoples, Baha’i and non-Baha’i alike.

To help accomplish this goal, the planning committee asks that Assemblies and District Teaching Committees consider establishing scholarship funds for those who might otherwise be unable to attend.

Approximate costs including food, hotel and registration fees are $125 per person.

Teaching and other activities before and after the conference present opportunities for everyone to expand his abilities. All activities at the Civic Center are a short walk from the downtown Phoenix Hilton conference headquarters.

Those who are interested in selling personal items should write in advance for permission to do so.

Registration forms will be available late this summer from your Assembly or District Teaching Committee.

For more information, write to the Grand Canyon Baha’i Conference, P.O. Box 9961, Phoenix, AZ 85068. [Page 13]On World Religion Day, January 19, U.S. Rep. J.J. ‘‘Jake’’ Pickle of Texas’ 10th Congressional District spoke to about 140 Baha’ is and their guests at the new Baha’i Center in Austin at a public meeting during which the congressman and other officials were presented copies of ‘‘The Promise of World Peace.’”

Dr. Charles Urdy, a member of the city council, spoke about the search for the dream of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., after which actor Julius Tennon presented a spell-binding rendition of Dr. King’s ‘‘I have a dream’’ speech.

Joining them on the program were representatives of other faiths including a children’s choir from the Truevine Missionary Baptist Church.

Rep. Pickle, in accepting the peace statement, said, ‘The most Pressing problem, really, is peace, world peace.

“*That supersedes, overshadows everything, and yet it doesn’t get the detailed discussion in community exchanges as do the specific topics that affect your pocketbook, or your immediate life, your income or your housing.”

He expressed ‘‘the hope that I might receive added meaning

from the cause to which you are committed, world peace.’’

A 10-foot-long “‘World Peace’’ banner served as a backdrop for refreshments on the lawn follow ing the program. The recently acquired Center is on the major thoroughfare to the Austin airport.

The unprecedented number of guests—including at least 40 non-Baha’is—required the use of an “overflow room’? with TV monitor.

The entire program was video taped and broadcast nine times on two community access TV channels. It was also the lead story on, that evening’s television news, using a quotation by Bahá’u’lláh and describing principles of the Faith while showing pictures of the children’s choir performing.

The event was organized by Austin’s Public Affairs Committee and publicized by the InterCommunity Media Committee.

Other recent events in Austin:

Gary Rea-Arth, or “Umik,” a Canadian Indian pioneer to P: guay, who performed Indian dances and spoke of Baha’i beliefs to an estimated 3,500 people while receiving excellent television and newspaper coverage during his 10-day stay.

© A public meeting in February commemorating Black History Month and featuring award-winning authoress and local historian Ada Simond; Louise Hicks, curator of the George Washington Carver Museum; and actor Julius Tennon reading 19th century black poetry.

Participation by Baha’ is in the

Texas Sesquicentennial celebration on the Cultures and Religions of the People of Austin, co-sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce and the World Council of Christians and Jews.

The American Baha’i / August 1986 / 13

140 see Texas Rep. Pickle receive ‘Promise of Peace’

U.S. Rep. J.J. ‘Jake’ Pickle of Texas receives a copy of ‘The

Promise of World Peace’ from

Baha’is Virginia Rogers (left) and Cynthia Mull, chairman of the Spiritual Assembly of Austin.

Seeds of Chinese teaching ready to bloom in Portland, Oregon

The Universal House of Justice said in the Seven Year Plan that teaching efforts among the Chinese should be undertaken, and so advised the U.S. National Spiritual Assembly in February 1985.

It was not until the following November, however, that the spiritual seed began to grow in Portland, Oregon, when Mrs. Faye Matthews, a longtime Baha’i who had searched for 29 years for “something to do in the Faith,’’

Baha’i women from Connecticut, ‘New Jersey and New York, along with three non-Bahá’í friends, met in Mount Vernon, New York, early in April for an all-day deepening and luncheon. The topic of the deepening was ‘Decision-Making:

Fund

from page 5

Justice, Ridvan 1986)

And it is a goal of the World Center to pursue ‘‘plans for the erection of the remaining buildings on the Arc ...’’ (Universal House of Justice, Ridvan 1986)

These three areas are only a part of the wide-ranging endeavors to be undertaken by the Baha’i community in the next six years. The resources of the Fund must grow to meet these expanding responsi Were the National Fund to grow at the same rate for the Six Year Plan as it did during the Seven Year Plan, we would provide $120 million, or $20 million per year! A significant sum considering where we stand now—but necessary to tackle the significant tasks we face.

How might such a challenge be met and overcome? Surely, one

The Baha’i View.’ As a result of this first effort, the Baha’i community of Mount Vernon has decided to sponsor a minimum of four similar gatherings during the remainder of the year.

way is through an influx of new believers. Even more, it will be done through the spirit of devotion to the Cause that is demonstrated in the deeds of new and veteran believers alike.

Shoghi Effendi’s words, spoken at the end of the first Seven Year Plan in 1950, are equally significant today:

“Time is short. Opportunities, though multiplying with every passing hour, will not recur, some for another century, others never again. However severe the challenge, however multiple the tasks, however short the time, however somber the world outlook, however limited the material resources. of a hard-pressed adolescent community, the untapped sources of celestial strength from which it can draw are measureless, in their potencies, and will unhesitatingly pour forth their energizing influences if the necessary daily effort be made and the required sacrifices be willingly accepted.’ (Citadel of Faith, p. 85)

began to mention it to a Chinese neighbor and friend, Mrs. Chan.

Since communication was limited because of the language problem, Mrs. Matthews wrote to the Baha’i Publishing Trust for a list of publications in Chinese.

And after reading in The American Baha’i that a Chinese Teaching Committee had been appointed, she wrote to them, announcing her interest in teaching the Chinese.

On January 9, Mrs. Matthews received a large packet of books and pamphlets in Chinese, from the National Teaching Committee.

Meanwhile, she had learned through a friend that two students in the Portland area had ‘‘some’” Chinese interest or activity.

One of them, Laura Williams, a young Baha’i from West Linn, was studying China and its language at Portland State University.

The other, Roland Yazhari from Beaverton, had not only been to China several times but had lovely slides of his visits.

Mrs. Matthews contacted both Laura and Roland with the idea of “starting a Chinese Teaching Committee in Portland.”’

After that, each day brought

new information, opportunities, and preparation for teaching. Mrs. Chan was already teaching the Faith to her friends.

It was agreed that since Mrs. Matthews was at home, she would do the ‘‘arm-work’’ and act as coordinator of the emerging group.

During February the Baha’is, singly and together, and with groups of Chinese friends, celebrated the Chinese New Year, the “Year of the Tiger,”’ and with the boldness of tigers plunged forward with ‘‘The Promise of World Peace.””

On February 10, Mrs. Matthews met with the Spiritual Assembly of Portland to request that a Chinese Teaching Committee be established; four days later, the request was granted.

On March 9, Mrs. Matthews, accompanied by two other Baha’is from Portland, Howard Herrick and Loie Mead, was welcomed at a council meeting of the Chinese Benevolent Association, where presentations of the peace statement were made.

The committee then received word that Farzam Kamalabadi, representing the U.S. Chinese Teaching Committee, would soon

be coming to Portland to speak at public meetings. Plans had to be made to let the Chinese community know of his visit.

“‘Connie’’ Chan, who had become a Baha’i on March 1, went to work helping Mrs. Matthews prepare invitations while Laura and Roland were busy’ spreading the word at school.

By early May everything was ready, and nearly 200 mailers were sent with information in Chinese and English inviting the Chinese people of Portland to a series of talks by Mr. Kamalabadi.

Personal invitations were also given and flyers posted in various places.

Mr. Kamalabadi arrived in Portland on May 13, and although Chinese attendance was small at each of the three public meetings, the committee felt that “*seeds’’ had been sown and that the effort was worthwhile.

The committee is deeply grateful for the help it has received from so many sources, and is keenly aware that it could have done nothing unless it was the Will of God and a necessary part of His great Plan.—Chinese Teaching Committee of Portland

i NaS WO 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 salid only in the United States

Se

Foreword, appendix, glossary, references, bibliography, index.

Hardcover $1699 softcover 8895

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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.

[Page 14]14 / The American Baha’ / August 1986

New audio tapes, video of Samoa Temple set for release

Jo | DISTRIBUTION SERVICE

A wide variety of new and rereleased audio-visual materials will soon be available from the Baha’i Distribution Service.

Among the items are two new audio cassettes and one new video cassette.

Wildfire ($7 CS) is a tape of songs from the well-known Baha’i musician, Wilford Johnson, who has been criss-crossing the country in recent months lending his talents to a number of teaching projects.

Mr. Johnson’s performance was one of the highlights of this year’s National Convention, and he’ll be performing at the Baha’i International Peace Conference in San Francisco later this month.

George Ronald raises prices on some older titles

George Ronald, Publisher, has raised the prices on a large number of its back list and older titles.

The most recent price list from the Baha’i Distribution Service reflects a number of price increases on books from George Ronald, a commercial publisher in England producing books on topics relating to the Faith.

Nearly all of the George Ronald titles carried by the Distribution Service, except those published within the past 12-18 months, are affected by the price increase.

“The policy of the Baha’i Publishing Trust and Distribution Service is to change prices on its own. books only on its January price list,” says Marketing Manager Robert Blum. ‘However, titles from other publishers will be adjusted when changes in currency values affect our cost, or when our price of a title is changed by the publisher.

“‘Occasionally,’’ he says, “‘we’ll absorb changes in the cost of a book for a short time, when the price change is caused by currency fluctuations, but since George Ronald prices its books on the cover and markets them directly in this country, it’s necessary for us to pass along the price increases immediately.”

Distribution Service makes $10 price cut on three video tapes

Lower production and decreasing costs for video tape cassettes are allowing the Distribution Service to reduce by $10 the price of three of its video tape titles.

Included in tke price reductions are Ark of Destiny ($25 Beta and VHS), the film of the construction of the Seat of the Universal House of Justice; the cassette Education/Trustees ($30 Beta and VHS), containing two films, Bahd’{ Education in India, which shows the development of Baha’ioperated schools in that country, and Trustees of the Merciful, a film on Baha’i community life, also filmed in India; and The Bahá’í Faith: Unity in Diversity ($25 Beta and VHS), a film made at the 1982 International Conference in

Australia.

Also newly available is a talk entitled Women: Equality and Peace ($7 CS) by Dr. Peter Khan, a Counselor-member of the International Teaching Center in Haifa.

Mr. Khan’s talk, presented earlier this year in Australia, focuses on the equality of men and women, the linkage between the role of women and the achievement of world peace, the moral courage of women, the means to open the Baha’i community to foster greater equality, and principles from the Baha’i writings for understanding equality in the sight of God.

Samoa: Dawning Place of the Pacific ($25 VT), in both Beta and VHS, is also now available. The film is a documentary of the dedication ceremonies of the Mother Temple of the Pacific and includes the participation of the Hand of the Cause of God Amatu’l-Bahá Rúḥíyyih Khánum and His Highness Malietoa Tanumafili II, head of state of Western Samoa.

An old favorite for children, Stories from the Dawn-Breakers, is expected back in the later part of August. It is a series of four tapes adapted from the book of the same name by Zoe Meyer and narrated by the Hand of the Cause of God William Sears.

The tapes will come as a set, packaged in a plastic case with a four-color cover drawing representing the period in Iran when the stories of the early heroes and heroines of the Faith were indelibly inscribed in history.

The four-tape set will sell for

Several other tapes from the “Legacies of Service’’ series have also been reissued.

Included among those again in stock are Are You Happy? by the Hand of the Cause of God Enoch

Olinga; In the Days of the Guardian by the Hand of the Cause Leroy Ioas; In His Presence by the Hand of the Cause Tarazu’llah Samandari; My Only Desire by the Hand of the Cause Agnes Alexander; Strengthening the Ad ministrative Order by the Hand of

the Cause Horace Holley; The

Triumph of the Cause by the

Hand of the Cause H.M. Balytzi,

and A Visit with the Master by the

Hand of the Cause Corrine True. Each of the tapes is $7.

In June the Baha’i Publishing Trust and Distribution Service held an open house for neighbors,

Fae Fe EF Sie Jriends and National Center staff

eee!

and their families to show off their newly remodeled offices at

415 Linden Avenue in Wilmette, Illinois. Work on the renovation of the building began last October.

Publishing Trust prepares new compilation on race unity

The Baha’ Publishing Trust, in cooperation with the National Race Unity Committee, is producing the first comprehensive com

Bookstore at S. Francisco Conference may be largest ever at a Baha’i event

As is the case with every major Baha’i event, the Baha’i Distribution Service is providing a fullystocked bookstore August 28-31 at the International Peace Conference in San Francisco.

“‘We believe the bookstore at the San Francisco conference will be the largest in many years, if not the largest ever, offered at a Baha’i event in this country,” says Marketing Manager Robert Blum.

“We'll be bringing several tons of books, tapes, albums, posters and special materials to San Francisco to provide the most complete ventory possible to the friends. “‘Besides a complete stock of Baha’i materials,’’ says Mr. Blum, “we'll also be carrying books written by some of the key speakers at the conference.

“We're certain that the quality

Ark of Destiny—Beta, VT —Ark of Destiny—VHS, VT

—Divine Art of Living, SC

—Mama Buzurg Is Coming, SC —O God, Guide Me!, SC

—Peace: More Than End to War, HC —Peace: More Than End to War, SC —The Peace Bible, HC

—Education India/Trustees Merciful—Beta, VT_30.00, Education India/Trustees Merciful—VHS, VT 30.00

of the speakers and their presentations will inspire conference parpants to study more of the ideas presented by these eminent individuals.

“The bookstore,’ he adds, “will also emphasize introductory material, so that the many hundreds of non-Baha’is who are drawn to the conference and its theme of peace will find material readily available to answer their areas of interest.’”

World Order, Baha’i News and Brilliant Star magazine will also have their subscriptions offered through the Distribution Service at the conference.

And in addition to the Distribution Service, a number of other businesses and artisans will have booths in the Civic Auditorium.

Amt. — Quan. Amt. Enclose a check for the full amount, or $25.00 __ Samoa: Dawning Place of Pacific—Beta, VT $25.00 25.00 _Samoa: Dawning Place of Pacific—VHS, VT 25.00 VISA/MC/AMEX (CIRCLE ONE) 19.95 Seven Valleys and the Four Valleys, HC 6.00 25.00 Seven Valleys and the Four Valleys, SC 3.50 Exp. Date Card No. 25.00 Special Measure of Love, SC 1.00 7.95 _ Stories from Dawn-Breakers—Set of 4, CS 24.00 i eTTe Movethe World, $C ais: eee Ee U.S. —Unrestrained as the Wind, SC 195 « Cutside :3:) 3.95 Unto Him Shall We Return, SC 3.75 _Wildfire, CS Name 16.00 _Women: A Compilation, SC 8.95 _Women: Equality and Peace, CS 7.00 8.95 Address Toul 5 City

Bahá’í Distribution Service 415 LINDEN AVENUE

WILMETTE, IL 60091

pilation on racial issues in more than 40 years: The Power of Unity: Beyond Prejudice and Racism ($7.95 SC)

“The Power of Unity goes beyond race relations into the larger sphere of the unification of the human race,” says Anne Atkinson, Publishing Trust promotions manager.

“The book assures us that the goal of world unity can and will be attained, and that discord and separation will give way to a complete harmony of the diverse elements that constitute the fabric of human society.””

In all, The Power of Unity contains 334 quotations from the writings of Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Shoghi Effendi and the Universal House of Justice, and includes newly translated Tablets and newly authorized translations of Tablets of the Master, and previously unpublished extracts from the writings of the Guardian.

The ‘‘most challenging issue’’ of race relations is broadened to include any racial or cultural minority—in particular, any group

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

TAB

experiencing the effects of prejudice.

The Power of Unity calls for the protection, cultivation and assimilation of all minorities into the Faith, and gives us a glimpse of the profound outcome of our devoting attention to minorities.

Seven Valleys returns

in brand new edition

After several months The Seven Valleys and the Four Valleys is once again back in print.

The new edition is bound in a fashion similar to the most recent edition of The Hidden Words of Bahd’u'llah.

The hardcover book is bound with a dark crimson leather-like material and embossed with a nine-pointed star. The softcover is bound in a lighter red vinyl with the title stamped in gold leaf on the front cover.

As with every reprint, any corrections indicated by the Universal House of Justice have been made in the text. The hardcover edition will sell for $6 and the softcover for $3.50.

State Zip

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Prices good through September 30, 1986

[Page 15]The SEX Year Plan

If your town meeting was like our town meeting, much of the consultation was focused on cartying the healing Message of Bahd’u'lláh to others—especially to minorities.

How can we better reach out to those of all races and back International Youth Year writing contest winner:

Increasing believers from all strata of

society with attention

to minority groups

grounds? What will prepare us to attract and answer the questions of those whose race, culture or economic status may be quite different from our own?

The following books will give us insight into how we might best anwer these and other questions:

A compilation that encourages us to adapt our presentation of the Faith to the diverse people we meet and assures us that when we offer a special measure of love to the masses, a new process is set in motion that has great transformative power.

PUBLISHING TRUST

BA

The Baha’i Publishing Trust is pleased to present the winning story in a writing competition undertaken in honor of the International Year of Youth. The purpose of the contest was to explore the challenges, opportunities and destiny of youth today and to inspire youth and adults to engage in creative thinking and writing about these issues.

Nineteen entries in three categories were submitted in the competition. The winning entry, “The Thank-You-Jesus Lady,”’ is by Dawn Garrott of Zanesville, Ohio, a wife and mother and freelance writer of fiction with a B.A. in early childhood education and psychology from Tufts University.

“Angela, honey!”’ called Miss Sadie, sticking her head out of the shack’s front doorway.

“Here I am,’’ Angie answered. She hurried up the rickety porch steps, her rows of short braids bouncing, unwilted by the afternoon heat. She’d had her dress, used, for her eighth birthday almost a year before; although it was now too small, the suggestion of color which clung to it after many washings complemented the deep brown of her skin.

Miss Sadie said, ‘‘When I was prayin’, the Lord put it in my mind we’re goin’ to have comp’ny.”” A delighted smile beamed from her fat face. ‘‘Do me a kindness, honey. Roll three of them big market melons under the porch to cool off.””

“Yes, ma’am!’’ Angie scurried around to the garden by the side of the isolated cabin, her bare feet slapping up dust. All the watermelons she thumped sounded ready, so she started with the big “You ol’ melon you,” she panted as she pushed, ‘‘you’re goin’ to make folks happy. She’s never wrong "bout things like this.””

Like a heavy black whirlwind, Miss Sadie swept through’ the three rooms of her home. She covered the sofa’s holes with plumped-up, threadbare pillows. She moved geraniums potted in coffee cans to decorate the top of the oil heater that dominated the living room.

Giving the heater a friendly thump, she said, ‘You're purely a mercy in winter when I can get me some fuel. Thank you, Jesus!””

She squeezed into the tiny bedroom and wrestled the bed aside so she could open the door fully. If need be, folks could sit on the edge of the sagging bed.

“T wonder who all’s comin’, Lord,” she said when she had caught her breath. ‘‘I ain’t questionin’, I’m just wonderin’. This is Your house and I’m pleased and grateful to "bide here. Thank you, Jesus!’”

Angie brushed dust off her legs and feet outside the front door and stood grinning at Miss Sadie, eyes shining with excitement.

“My, my, ain’t you fast!”” marveled Miss Sadie. ‘‘That Moses, he’s goin’ to bring fish. You take this and meet him.’’ She held out a change purse to the girl, who pocketed it carefully and darted away.

Angie met Moses coming from the river with two sloshing buckets hanging from his hands. He had on red suspenders to hold up his droopy trousers, one knee of which was adorned by a threecornered tear. Sweat made rivulets of the creases in his face. Like Angie, he was barefoot and dustcovered.

Setting the buckets down, he smiled. ‘‘How’s Miss Sadie’s angel?’’ he asked.

“Pm fine, thank you,’? she mumbled bashfully, studying her toes.

A splash from a bucket drew her attention. Her eyes widened. “Them buckets are full!”” she exclaimed.

“Had me some luck,’’ Moses said modestly. ‘‘How many does she want?’”

Angie replied, ‘‘She said to buy everythin’ you got.””

It was Moses’ turn to be surprised. He scratched his graywhite hair with blunt fingers and asked, ‘‘What’s she goin’ to do with so many fish, girl?”

“*She’s got comp’ny comin’.””

“Who all’s comin’?””

Angie answered simply, ‘The Lord, He’s the one to ask.””

Moses took the shabby purse she held out and opened it. Staring at the $1 bill that made itself at home inside, he thought of the tobacco he craved.

_ “This is all she’s got, ain’t I right?”’ he asked.

Angie nodded.

He snapped the purse shut and returned it without touching the money. ‘‘Chile, that Miss Sadie, she’s crazy. Thank-you-Jesus,

The American Baha’i / August 1986 / 15

A biography that gives us a remarkable example of a minority teacher who demonstrated the Baha’? ideal of racial oneness and helps us to understand the challenges of overcoming racial prejudice.

Tang Gnpey aide Nivantement “it ieaca Cosy

MOV! iE WORLD

A new compilation that presents the Bahá’í teachings on the importance of the development of women and their role in the world at large, particularly in building a peaceful civilization.

The ‘Thank-You-Jesus’ Lady

thank-you-Jesus all the time. She "bout froze to death in that house last winter, ain’t I right?”

Angie nodded again.

“*An’ she’s got the wastin’ sickness chewin’ at her vitals, eatin’ up her insides, ain’t I right?””

This time, when Angie nodded, tears glistened in her eyes.

“This here god of hers, he done gone an’ forgot all about her, ain’t I right?

“No,” said Angie with quiet respect. ‘*You’re wrong "bout that one thing.’’ With that she reached for a pail handle.

“Well, she learnt you your manners, girl,’’ said Moses. “Here, Pll carry that.””

Miss Sadie greeted them by the back steps, the pig-slop pail at her feet, a sharp knife in one hand. “My, my, Moses! You’re "bout the best there is at fishin’,’’ she said happily. ‘‘You all got to stop an’ eat with me.’” X

He shuffled his feet in pleased embarrassment, then dug out his jackknife to help clean the catch. Angie sat on a step, listening while they talked.

Miss Sadie said, ‘The Lord, He’s after you, Moses. You're welcome at church any time.””

When he smiled but shook his head no, she added, ‘‘You’re just one little ol’ lost lamb.’”

“Baa! Baa!’’ he bleated. Angie nearly fell off the step, laughing. He and Miss Sadie laughed too, but soon he said seriously, ‘‘This lord you're talkin’ "bout, he’s a white god. He don’t care nothin’

bout niggers. Anyhow, you all

can’t teach this ol’ dog new tricks.”” Miss Sadie’s joyous laugh burst

forth again. ‘‘You sure are confused,”’ she said. ‘‘First you’re a lamb, now you’re a dog!””

When they had finished, she heaved herself to her feet and admired the cleaned fish. ‘‘Ain’t they purty! See them different kinds? The Lord, He throwed them all into the same river and they done fine together. They’re just fish, and we’re His chillen. Thank you, Jesus!’”

Moses shook his head as Miss Sadie took the fish into the house. “I wish’t it was true,’’ he said.

After washing in water Angie pumped for him, he shambled to the shady front porch and lay down, spreading his handkerchief over his face. ‘‘Thank-you-Jesus, thank-you-Jesus,”” he muttered. “‘She’s crazy, that woman. She’s

wonderful crazy.””

Miss Sadie wedged herself into the kitchen. ‘‘Now ain’t this here bottle-gas a blessin’,’’ she rumbled, dolloping huge spoons full of lard into her two frying pans. “I used to "bout cook to death in summer with that ol’ coal stove. Lord, you sure is kind. Thank you, Jesus!””

She stacked the fried fish on newspapers covering every flat place in the miserably hot kitchen. After pouring the fat back into its storage can, she carried the pans ‘out so Angie could scrub them in steaming, soapy water set by the back steps.

When the pans were clean and dry, she heaped them with the delicately browned fish, and finished by covering the food with newspapers to keep off the flies, saying, ‘‘Ain’t it wonderful, Angela, honey? I ain’t got roaches to worry me. Thank you, Jesus!’’

“T seen ’em headed up the road with their travelin’ bags, lookin’ for a white kitchen,” said Angie.

She was rewarded by a rich chuckle, but Miss Sadie interrupted herself: ‘Lord, chile, I ’most forgot.’”

She tore off a piece of paper and handed Angie a fragrant, cooling fish with “Eat now, “cause you'll be runnin’ an’ fetchin’ when folks come. Get Moses to cut you some melon when he wakes hisself. 1 got to rest.”*

Stretching out wearily on her bed in the dreadful heat, Miss Sadie dreamed a strange dream. She swam beneath warm, bluegreen water with others like herself. When she became used to it, she noticed that they were part of a multitude of many different

kinds, all swimming in the same

direction, ever closer together.

Suddenly, streams of light from somewhere above flowed through the water. She felt the unmistakable touch of a net against her side. Before she could panic, a wonderful voice spoke: ‘‘I still fish.””

She wanted the dream to continue so she could see what happened, but Moses’ voice woke her. From the porch, he called urgently, ‘‘Miss Sadie! Miss Sadie! We got us some trouble here.’”

Struggling to her feet, she came out, smoothing her hair and dress on the way. She, Moses and Angie watched a husky white youth get out of a van that had stopped on the dirt road by the path leading

to the shack.

He returned Miss Sadie’s tentative wave, then slid open the vehicle’s windowless side door.

“Can you read that writin’ on the door, chile?’” Miss Sadie whispered to Angie.

“Yes, ma’am,”’ she replied. “It says, ‘Bah-hey-Faith-youth-canmove-the-world.””

Although puzzled, the girl fairly vibrated with excitement. But it was fear that shook Moses. His body bore scars from a savage, unprovoked beating by drunken white men. Nothing would have suited him better than to quietly disappear, yet he stood by his friends.

“For what You send us, thank you, Jesus,’’ Miss Sadie said quietly.

A young black woman in jeans climbed from the van, followed by an Oriental youth wearing a wrinkle-free business suit. Together, they and the driver carefully lifted out a wheelchair.

Miss Sadie caught her breath, for the person whose contorted body filled the chair strongly reminded her of her long-dead grandmother. No matter that the girl’s skin was bronze, and her black hair straight; it had something to do with her eyes, and the peacefulness in which she wrapped herself like a blanket.

It was Granny who had told Miss Sadie repeatedly, “‘Jesus has returned—I know it in my heart and soul. One day someone’s comin’ down the lovin’ road to tell you, an’ that day will be a day fit for rejoicin’!””

As the group slowly approached the shack, the girl called, ‘We have something to share with you.’

Understanding swept over Miss Sadie, and with her widest smile, she responded, ‘‘I know—I been waiting on you a long, long time. Thank you, Jesus!’’

How to order

To order any titles listed on this page, individuals living anywhere in the world should see the Baha’i Distribution Service coupon on page 14.

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

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

CLASSIFIEDS

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

THE DEPARTMENT of Human Resources at the Baha’i National Center is accepting applications for the following positions: Fund Education coordinator (Treasurer’s Office): Helps administer a nationwide program to strengthen the institution of the Baha’i Fund by coordinating the National Treasurer’s Representative program and by responding to inquiries pertaining to the Fund from the field. College education, strong organizational skills, excellent written and verbal communication skills and a firm knowledge of the Baha’i Writings are necessary. Refugee Program assistant (Persian/American Affairs): Helps administer the refugee settlement program by handling correspondence with refugees, sponsors, and Baha’i and non-Baha’i agencies involved in refugee settlement, responding to telephone and personal inquiries about the settlement of individual refugees, maintaining files on refugees and agencies associated with the program, and preparing statistical reports. Good verbal and written communication skills, an eye for detail and an ability to work under deadlines is required, as well as typing of 50 wpm. Knowledge of Persian is not required. Secretarial assistant (Office of the Secretary): Helps with mail screening, processing correspondence, special projects and other duties as needed. Strong clerical and organizational skills and typing of 55 wpm are required; a firm Baha’i background, common sense, and the ability to work independently or under close supervision are necessary. Secretary (Community Administration): Types confidential correspondence, transcribes dictation, maintains office supplies and performs other tasks as needed. Two to three years of previous office experience, strong typing skills (55 wpm), and the ability to handle a large volume of detailed and routine work quickly, efficiently and accurately are required. Knowledge of a Xerox 850 word processor is helpful; confidentiality is essential. Receptionist (National Teaching Committee): Greets visitors; answers telephones, routes calls, takes messages; helps with mail processing; types correspondence; and helps staff with various tasks. Some previous office experience, pleasant and courteous telephone manner, and typing of 30 wpm are necessary. Regional Development coordinator (National Teaching Committee): Motivates and inspires District Teaching Committees to set and fulfill goals; initiates and responds to inquiries from the field; helps with coordi

nation and placement of traveling teachers and homefront pioneers; helps with conference planning; and maintains files for Assemblies, District Teaching Committees and Groups. Solid knowledge of Baha’i administration is needed with experience on a_ District Teaching Committee and/or local Assembly helpful. Good written and verbal communication skills, organizational and clerical ability, and typing of 40 wpm are keys in this position. Secretary (Office of External Affairs, New Haven, CT): 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. For applications or further information, please contact the Department of Human Resources, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312-869-9039).

NEEDED! Alcoholism counselor, Martin, South Dakota. Write to Louise Watson,

Martin, SD 57551.

PHYSICIAN (general practice) needed on Nantucket Island, 30 miles at sea off Cape Cod, Massachusetts. There are several doctors here, also the 50-bed Nantucket

Cottage Hospital. Contact Nathaniel Bond, administrator, Nantucket,

MA 02554 (phone 617-228-1200). Baha’i contact is Anna Hall, secretary, Baha’i Group of Nantucket, 617-228-2904 (or 617-228-9891, mornings).

PEDIATRICIAN with six years experience is seeking a partner. Please write to P.O. Box 337, Rockingham, NC 28379.

BAHA’I couple or single adult (non-smoking) needed by September to care for 22-month-old twins weekdays in a non-Baha’i home in a homefront pioneering location 45 miles from California’s Chico State University. Active Baha’i community with an Assembly two miles away; position offers room, board and salary. For more information, write to Pamela Purcell,

Red Bluff, CA 96080.

PIONEERING (HOMEFRONT)

HELP strengthen avd contribute to a small community which has maintained Assembly status for 16 years. Santa Clara County Southwest (California) offers fresh mountain air with close proximity to cultural events, Santa Cruz beaches and the Bosch Baha’i School. We’re also near junior and four-year colleges and vocational/certification facilities. The diversified area allows for job opportunities from laborer to professional. Community members will offer help in orientation. Before packing your bags, please write to Los Gatos, CA 95031, or phone 408-353-1533. P.S.—We’re only 65 miles south of the upcoming Peace Conference.

TEACHERS of all sorts are needed in Exeter, New Hampshire. Baha’i teachers are welcome, and school teachers as well. The Baha’i community is seeking to make inroads with youth at the Exeter public high school and at Phillips Exeter Academy where we were able this year to conduct a world peace essay contest. We have one youth at the high school who needs encouragement, and

we are starting to make inroads at Phillips Exeter, but a Baha’i staff member would be a big help. Please write to the Spiritual Assembly of Exeter, c/o Phyllis Ring, secretary, P.O. Box 384, Exeter, NH 03833, or phone 603772-4680.

IF YOU have a master’s degree in nursing, agriculture, English, engineering, electronics, computers, biology, chemistry, geology, business or other field, please send a resumé to Oglala Lakota College, Kyle, SD 57752, Attn: Louise Watson, Economic Development Research Institute. Teach or open a small business. We need you!

NURSING opportunities in a 250-bed hospital in Wilson, North Carolina, a mass-taught area where the embers of the Faith can burn brightly with patient nurturing. For more details, contact Karen Tarlo, director of Perinatal Nursing (and also secretary of the North Carolina Eastern District Teaching Committee), Wilson Memorial Hospital,

Wilson, NC 27893 (home phone, evenings, is 919-237-2441).

THE LOVELY beachfront community of Hermosa Beach, California, needs homefront pioneers to help keep the locality open. Hermosa Beach is only 20 miles south of downtown Los Angeles and is close to the industrial headquarters of TRW, Hughes Aircraft, Xerox and other hightech industries. Major universities (UCLA and USC) are no more than 20 miles away. If you can help by moving or would like more information, contact Sue or Don Berkman, 213-379-5221 or Chris Hendershot, 213-372-5856.

VICE-president for nursing services needed in a 250-bed county hospital in Wilson, North Carolina, used to progressive, supportive nursing management; master’s degree preferred. Also needed is an emergency room nurse manager, BS preferred. The Wilson community is mass-taught and needs loving nurturing. For more details, phone Karen Tarlo, 919-237-2441 (evenings).

HAVE YOU dreamed of being within an hour’s drive of the Bosch Baha’i School, only 30 minutes from the Monterey Peninsula and the Santa Cruz beaches and enjoying a low-keyed lifestyle? Combine all these things with service to Bahá’u’lláh and you’re set for life. Hurry! Castroville, California—the artichoke capital of the world—needs you. Phone Brian Skeel, 408-728-3425.

HOMEFRONT pioneers are needed for two small towns in northern Florida, Havana and Quincy, about 25 miles from the state capital. Agriculturally based economy, some light industry, predominantly black populations with mass-taught believers; temperate climate, many lakes, forests, state parks nearby for recreation. Contact the Baha’is of Leon County, c/o Alice Kimble,

Tallahas see, FL 32303 (phone 904-5625279).

LOVELY rural Williamsburg County, South Carolina, site of the Louis Gregory Institute, needs school teachers and principals. Science and math teachers need no teaching certificate. Also needed are elementary school and art teachers. Many homes are for sale

at reasonable prices in Kingstree (population 24,000), 30 minutes from the Gregory Institute, one hour from the beach. Please write and send a resumé to Mr. W. Burroughs, personnel director, Williamsburg County Schools, Kingstree, SC 29556, or phone 803-3547007.

ONE physical therapist, respiratory therapist, medical technologist can help answer health care and spiritual needs in Wilson, North Carolina—a dormant community waiting to bloom. For more details, phone Karen Tarlo, 919-237-2441 (evenings).

WANTED: Homefront pioneers to Greeley, northern Colorado’s agricultural center and home of the University of Northern Colorado, about 40 miles east of the Rocky Mountain National Forest. There is a large Hispanic population just waiting for you, and, sadly, not a single Spanish Baha’i. Please help by writing to the Baha’is of Greeley, P.O. Box 1712, Greeley, CO 80631.

PIONEERING (OVERSEAS)

TESL instructors are needed for an English-language institute in Pusan, Korea. Initial contracts are for one year with possible renewal. Applicants should have a master’s or equivalent degree in language arts, TESL, or English. For more information, contact the International Goals Committee,

Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312869-9039.

A CLINIC in Samoa is looking for a nurse practitioner or physician’s assistant. Good salary, transportation and moving expenses are included. If you would like more information about this position, write to the International Goals Committee, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

A HIGH school in Papua New Guinea has several openings for teachers beginning in January 1987. Areas needed are English, math, physics, biology, chemistry, drama or music, painting, sculpture, pottery, history, politics and geography. Applicants proficient in two teaching areas will be given preference. A university degree, teaching qualifications, and at least two years teaching experjence are required. For more it formation, contact the International Goals Committee, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

SEVERAL elementary school teachers for grades 1-8 and an English teacher are needed in the Marshall Islands (South Pacific). Salary includes some transportation costs; housing may also be provided for or financially subsidized. Bachelor’s degree is required. To obtain more information about these positions, contact the International Goals Committee, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312869-9039.

COOK Islands in the South Pacific are looking for secondary school teachers in science, math, agriculture and industrial arts. For more information, contact the International Goals Committee, Baha’i_ National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

GUATEMALA is seeking a food assistance consultant to provide technical guidance in improving the effectiveness of food assis

tance programs in Central America. The consultant will reside in Guatemala with frequent travel throughout Central America. Applicants should have an advanced degree in a related technical or developmental discipline, five years experience in food assistance or emergency relief programs, and be able to speak Spanish. For more information, write to the International Goals Committee, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

SETTLE in sunny Hawaii to

help strengthen the weaker areas. Four communities on the Big Island (world famous for its Volcan National Park) need pioneer families: North Hilo, Ka’u, Hamakua and South Kona. Others are needed on the island of Molokai (which has one Assembly for the whole island); Waialua, on the north shore of Oahu; Wahiawa, only 30 minutes from downtown Honolulu and Waikiki; and Hanalei, on the island of Kauai, where the movie ‘‘South Pacific’’ was filmed. Consider any of these goals and make yourself available to the National Teaching Committee of Hawaii, Honolulu, HA 96817, or phone Robert McClelland, chairman, 808-922-6926, or Scarlett O’Hara Bill, secretary, 808-322-3564. .

A LECTURER in technology/ industrial arts is needed in Fiji to work as part of a staff team responsible for teaching all courses within the technology program. Applicants should have a master’s degree in technology or industrial arts and experience in developing new courses or teaching extension courses. If you are interested in pioneering to this South Pacific island nation, write to the International Goals Committee, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

TURKS and Caicos Islands has a part-time nursing position availabale at a well-equipped community-operated primary medical care clinic. Applicant must be LPN, LVN or RN. Duties include taking vital signs, helping physician examine and treat patients, giving IM injections, maintaining medical supply inventory, routing lab procedures, blood samples, and sterilizing instruments and supplies. Hours are 8-1, six days a week, with some emergency call-out. For more information, contact the International Goals Committee, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

MAURITANIA needs a project director to manage an expanding rural primary health care project in isolated areas and to supervise three mobile teams of expatriate rurse/nutritionists. Excellent

leadership skills, proven management experience, and fluency in English and French are

necessary. For more information, contact the International Goals Committee, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

EL SALVADOR needs a program director for a primary health care program. Main duty is to implement a primary health care delivery service program for displaced and resettled persons in camps and cooperatives in various parts of the country. Applicants should have a medical degree, three years experience as a primary health care administrator, and a working knowledge of [Page 17]Spanish. For more information, contact the International Goals Committee, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

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’ School, 3208 S. State Road, Day son, MI 48423, or phone 313-6535033. VISA or MasterCard accepted.

CHILDREN’S Baha’i membership cards are available from the Louhelen Baha’i School. These attractive, wallet-sized cards can be used by Assemblies, District Teaching Committees and parents to strengthen a child’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.

YOUNG adults: If you would like to receive the “Youth Hotline,” please send your name and address, along with your age (so we know who we are servicing) to the Baha’i National Youth Committee, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

A COURSE on ‘‘Baha’i 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 organic 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.

HANDS ONI!, 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 313653-5033.

“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).

THE REFLECTIONS Distribution Center at the Louhelen Baha’i School is developing a sales catalog for the public. The catalog will consist of items that reflect Baha’i principles and themes, with the goal being to attract the attention and gain the support of Baha’i-minded individuals through the use of Baha’i-oriented arts and crafts. You can help by submitting any item, design or idea that you think would be suitable for promotion in the catalog. Compensation will be given for all submissions accepted. Write to Reflections, Louhelen Baha’i School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423, or phone 313-653-5033.

TALKS by Jane Faily (“‘Women and the Age of Equality’’) and Gwen Lewis (‘‘Women of Color in America’), given June 27-29 at Louhelen’s Women’s Conference, are available for $6 each. Orders may be placed by phone (payment by VISA or MasterCard accepted) or by sending a check to Reflections, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423 (phone 313-6535033).

WANTED

GARDEN teachers are wanted to help teach the Faith at the House of Worship in Wilmette on Friday and Saturday evenings from 10-12 p.m. Visitors to the area are also welcome. Please contact Susan Woodall, 312-255-2207.

KANSAS Baha’is, past and present: To celebrate the 90th birthday of the Kansas Baha’i community, a history is being compiled of activities back to 1897. We need your reminiscences, anecdotes, old bulletins (1920s-1970) and any other information you can share. Also needed are remembrances from traveling teachers. Send to: Duane Herrmann, Berryton, KS 66409.

HELP is needed from psychologists, counselors, HRD or communications specialists, Auxiliary Board members or anyone with experience working with groups, especially local Assemblies. Am writing a master’s thesis on the enhanced productivity of consultative decision-making and need ideas for an objective performance measure and a way to survey Assemblies to test that measure. Please write to Steve Angell, P.O. Box 3867, UBP, Las Cruces, NM 88003

WANTED: information concerning Gifford Pinchot’s associ: tion with ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Mr. Pinchot was first Chief Forester of the U.S., co-founder of the School of Forestry at Yale University, twice governor of Pennsylvania, friend and associate of Theodore Roosevelt, and a supporter of women’s suffrage. On June 3, 1912, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá was a guest at ‘‘Grey Towers,”’ the Pinchot family home in Milford, Pennsylvania, where He spoke to “statesmen and notables of the Republic’? (Mahmud’s Diary). Anyone with information about this is asked to contact Lorraine Appelbaum,

Philadelphia, PA 19144 (phone 215-438-3346).

‘WANTED: Original Tablets of ‘Abdu’ l-Bahd to the following individuals, with approximate dates of the Tablets: George F. Ort, Chicago (1902), Isabella M. Newton, Portland, OR (1909), Mary C. Newton, New York City (1910), Emma Noble, Cleveland

(1910), Raymond St. James Perrin, New York City (1908), the New York Peace Society (1912), Daniel R. Sutton, Portland, OR (1907) and Henry Clayton Thompson, Chicago (1910). Anyone having information about the possible whereabouts of any of these Tablets is asked to contact the National Baha’i Archives, Baha’ National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

THE NATIONAL Committee Friesland, established in March 1986 by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Netherlands, would like to contact Frysian Baha’is or people who feel related to the Frysian culture to determine whether they are interested in Baha’i literature in the Frysian language. Already published is ‘Abdu’l-Bahá—Gleanings from His Writings and Talks; in preparation are Baha’i Prayers and Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. \f you are interested, write to N.C. Friesland, p/o Raaigras 161, 8935 EZ Leeuwarden, The Netherlands.

BAHA'I publisher needs editors to edit Baha’i books. If interested, please write to

Mount Pleasant, MI 48858.

HOW DOES your community celebrate Baha’i Holy Days? Several Baha’i communities in central New Jersey need fresh ideas. We are also interested in making a compilation that could be sent to any community upon request. If you have any suggestions, we would love to hear from you! Please write to Donna Duncan, Piscataway, NJ 08854, or phone 201-463-3683.

WANTED: Correspondence with anyone who can _ speak and/or write Khmer and English fluently. I am trying to learn Khmer to teach/deepen Cambodians and need all the help I can get. Please write to Bruce Butler,

St. Petersburg, FL 33711.

WANTED: Realistic proposals concerning 20 acres of donated land on a 90-acre private estate in one of the choicest areas of northern Wisconsin, about 30 miles from Milwaukee and close to Canada with many Indian Reserva

The American Baha’i / August 1986 / 17

tions nearby—designated specifically to be used for the development and building of a Baha’i school. The land is secluded but not wilderness—two miles from the modern city of Eagle River, beautifully wooded and landscaped with 1,000 feet of lake frontage

and three private islands in a chain .

of 27 lakes. Need advice, consultation, and, eventually, realistic fund-raising plans from Baha’is experienced in real estate development. Please help make this dream come true. Contact E. Kolehouse,

New Berlin, WI 53151, or phone 414-422-1197.

WANTED: Cambodian, Laotian and Thai pen-pals for new Baha’is. If you would like to correspond with Cambodian, Laotian or Thai Baha’is, please write to the Spiritual Assembly of St. Petersburg, P.O. Box 15343, St. Petersburg, FL 33733. Our new Baha’js would really appreciate it.

NEEDED: Dentists, physicians’ assistants, home health nurses, and family nurse practitioners for programs serving the Navajo communities in Arizona and New Mexico. Salary basis. Contact Project Concern’s AMDOC/OPTION, P.O. Box 85322, San Diego, CA 92138, or phone the American Indian Teaching Committee, Baha’i National Center, 312-869-9039.

THE NATIONAL Baha’i Archives is seeking state and district voting lists used in State and District Conventions for the period 1952-67. The Archives has received lists for Wisconsin and Southern California but still needs lists from other states. Anyone having lists he or she could donate is asked to contact the National Baha’i Archives, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

THE “Reflections” department at the Louhelen Baha’i School is seeking persons, Groups and/or Assemblies to serve as distributors of the ‘‘Mankind Is One”’ sweatshirts and T-shirts. Distributors will receive compensation. Write to ‘‘Reflections,’’ 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423, or phone 313-653-5033.

WANTED: Any and all information, ideas, teaching/deepen ing tips, etc. pertaining to sharing the Faith with those of Cambodian, Laotian, Thai or Vietnamese background. If you have had experience in teaching or deepening people from Southeast Asia, please write to the Spiritual Assembly of St. Petersburg, P.O. Box 15343, St. Petersburg, FL 33733.

MISCELLANEOUS

WALK for “‘The Promise of World Peace!’’ You don’t have to be a marathon walker. This is a relay walk September 19-28 covering almost 200 miles across northern Illinois from the Mississippi River to the Baha’ House of Worship, and you can help publicize the Universal House of Justice’s healing message in towns and counties that have not yet been opened to the Faith. Join us for a day or half a day; walk a while, then ride to the next relay point. Needed are volunteer medical personnel (in case a medical emergency happens, we plan to be prepared); a van to house a bookmobile for the entire period of the walk; and entertainers, musicians and singers to help with public programs during the walk. If you can provide these or any other services, or wish to take part in the walk in any way, contact the Steering Committee, c/o Spiritual Assembly of Wheaton, P.O. Box 782, Wheaton, IL 60189, or phone Sandra Bundy, 312-668-6343. Mark your calendar for September 19-28 and join the Walk for the Promise of World Peace!

Nebraska Baha’is garner H.S. honors

In Nebraska, three young Baha’is who recently were graduated from high school received honors:

Rachel Schneider, daughter of Don and Kathy Schneider of Fremont, and Dulce Foster, daughter of Mrs. JoEllen Clifton of Grand Island, were Merit Scholarship finalists. Both plan to attend Macalester College in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Chris Rozmarin, son of Marvin and Sandy Rozmarin of Lincoln, received the Bernard Nevin award, one of the top awards given by the Lincoln Youth Symphony.

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

La Conferencia Baha’i Sobre la Paz Internacional, Informacién

La conferencia Baha’i sobre la Paz Internacional presentar4 una visién de la paz mundial, y a la vez reunir Baha’ is y sus invitados no-Baha’is a fin de elaborar componentes de la paz y facilitar un sentido de colaboracién en la lucha por realizar el logro de la paz.

Los Planes Tienen como Puntos Principales:

EL PROGRAMA: La conferencia ha sido ideado de manera que proporcione un foro para el intercambio de ideas, el gozar de la musica y las artes, y también oportunidades para la interaccién personal. Las sesiones generales han de incluir conferencistas, workshops, misica, baile y haran uso de las artes como expresién espiritual para acercarse al logro de la paz. Se ha hecho en esfuerzo especial para tener un equilibrio entre las actividades, mediante una variedad de conferencistas, ya sean 0 no Baha’is, la participacién de parte de todos en los workshops, y el entretenimiento y las artes.

CONFERENCISTAS: Ervin Laszlo, anterior director de UNITAR y conocido como autoridad en el campo de ‘‘la ciencia de sistemas’’ y “orden mundial,’’ es uno de los conferencistas principales. Robert Bellah, el autor del libro ‘‘Habits of the Heart: Individualism and Commitment in American Life,” hard un repaso de la interdependencia mundial, asi como el impacto de las avances cientificas y técnicas. Riane Eisler, coordinadora del ‘Institute for Futures Forecasting’’ en Carmel, California, hablar4 sobre asuntos que afectan a las mujeres. Annie Dodge Wauneka, la primera y unica persona entre los Indios Ame canos que ha recibido la Medalla de la Libertad, hablara sobre la Educacién Universal desde el punto de vista de integrar los conceptos de la educacién, el aprendizaje y las habilidades adquiridas en la manera de vivir de uno. ‘‘La Gran Purificacién’’ y la paz mundial seran tratados por Thomas Banyaca, lider espiritual Hopi y conferencista internacional sobre el tema de las profecias Hopi. Ha sido invitado David Bernstein, profesor de Estudios Internacionales en la Stanford University, quien sera miembro del panel que va a considerar la renovaci6n espiritual. Motelapula Chabaku, desterrado de la Africa del Sur, hablara sobre la eliminaci6n del prejuicio racial. C. Eric Lincoln, profesor de religion y cultura en la Duke University, y autor de ‘‘Race, Rel n and the Continuing American Dilemma,” hablaré sobre la eliminacién del prejuicio en general.

WORKSHOPS: Discusiones de panel, tépicos de interés especial, y las artes constituiran lo principal de casi doscientos workshops sobre temas de la renovacién espiritual, el desarrollo social y econdémico, la eliminacién del prejuicio, la igualdad de los hombres y las mujeres, la educacién universal, y el federalismo mundial. Los workshops pondran énfasis en la participacién colectiva con la meta de infundir habilidades que los participantes podran ‘‘llevar a casa’’ para divulgar el concepto que la paz es inevitable. Los workshops estaran dirigidos tanto por Baha’is como por no-Baha’is.

ACTIVIDADES PARA LA JUVENTUD: El establecimiento de la paz mundial, una preocupacién mayor de la juventud de hoy, es la base para los eventos que el Comité Nacional de Juventud ha planeado para la conferencia. La juventud tomar parte con los adultos en los workshops y también tendrdn su propia sesién especial el viernes por la tarde. Sesiones de “‘tarde la noche,’’ que se llevaran a cabo en el Ballroom del Hilton Hotel, incluiran mas entretenimiento casual, y les ofrecera a los jovenes la oportunidad de llegar a con erse mejor los unos a los otros.

CONFERENCIA PARA LOS NINOS: Puesto que los nifios son instrumentos esenciales de la paz mundial, los componentes de su programa tienen metas especificas para darles una comprensién de la paz, y las habilidades necesarias para la busqueda de la paz. Actividades especiales, tales como una visita al bien conocido ‘‘Exploratorium’’ y la Academy of Sciences de San Francisco, hara destacar al concepto de la ciencia como servicio a la humanidad. Entretenimiento y conferencistas orientados a los nifios completaran el programa que se llevaré a cabo simultaneamente con el programa de la Conferencia. La guarderia cooperativa, la clase para pre-escolares, y las clases para nifios menores, estaran ubicadas en la Civic Auditorium donde se basan la mayoria de las demas actividades de la conferencia. Las clases para los nifios mayores estaran en el San Francisco Hilton Hotel, sede de la conferencia.

GUARDERIA COOPERATIVA: Para asegurar la tranquilidad y gozo de la conferencia de parte de los participantes de menor e dad, un sitio de juego y descanso para bebes y nifios pequeiios estara disponible en la Civic Auditorium.

ENTRETENIMIENTO: Las ceremonias de abertura y clausura presentaran baile y musica de una multitud de culturas y de los nifios presentes. Entre los artistas que se presentaran en las noches de la conferencia habra: Kevin Locke, Do’a, The L.A. Workshop, Wilford Johnson, Mary Davis y Leslie & Kelly. El sabado de noche habra entretenimiento muy especial.

LIBRERIA: Una libreria, y sector de ventas en la Civic Auditorium tendré buena existencia de nuevos titulos sobre la paz, materiales para proclamacién, y una variedad de recuerdos de la conferencia. El sector de ventas tendré articulos producidos por Baha’is con una seccién especial de artes y artesania tales como batiks, vidrio de color y alhajas.

EXHIBITOS: Una area de exhibitos en la Civic Auditorium tendra exhibiciones especiales sobre ‘‘Baha’is en America,’’ fotografias de la construccién de la Casa de Adoracién en el Sub-continente de la India, una exhibicién sobre ‘‘Nifios en las Naciones Unidas,”” y muchos otros exhibitos.

PROYECTO DE SERVICIO: Un proyecto de servicio de mayor categoria durante la conferencia ser4 una campafia para donaciones de sangre, dirigida por la Irwin Memorial Blood Bank. Se necesita cuatrocientos donadores por dia. Los compromisos para donar sangre tienen

Posa CONFERENCIA ala pag. 28

Preguntas comun respecto a la Fe

Que es un Baha’?

Un Baha’i es alguien que cree que las promesas de nuestro Sefior Jesucristo se han cumplido. Creemos que Baha’u’llah (que significa ‘‘La Gloria de Dios’’) es el Mensajero de Dios para esta Epoca. Baha’i significa ‘“‘seguidor de la Gloria.”

¢Como y de donde proviene la Fe Baha’i?

El 23 de mayo de 1844, en Persia (que hoy se conoce como Iran), un radiante joven conocido como el Bab, anuncié la venida de un Educador Divino Quien vivicaria las almas, iluminaria las mentes y unificaria los corazones de todos los hombres.

El Bab fue victima de 6 afios de persecucién a manos de los enemigos de la Causa de Dios, y fue martirizado el 9 de julio de 1850.

Poco después del martirio del Bab, Baha’u’llah, un noble persa, anuncié la aparicién de una nueva era, una era en la que la confraternidad y la paz se extenderian sobre la Tierra como las aguas cubren el vasto inmenso del Mar. El exhort6 a la humanidad a que participara de las ensefianzas espirituales y de la guia de las nuevas leyes reveladas en este Dia.

Que relacion existe entre Cristo y Bahd’u'lláh?

Dice la Ensefianza Baha’i: ‘*La Causa de Bahá’u’lláh es la misma Causa de Cristo. Es el mismo Templo y la misma base. Con la venida de Cristo, las Ensefianzas de Baha’u’llah tienen los mismos principios basicos, pero han sido dadas de acuerdo con la etapa de madurez de la humanidad y las necesidades de esta epoca es la inmutable Fe de Dios; en el pasado, eterna en el futuro.””

Que creen los Bahá’ís acerca de las demas religiones?

Los Baha’is creemos en un solo Dios, aunque los hombres lo han llamado a El por diferentes nombres. Dios ha revelado Su palabra en cada periodo de la historia por medio de un Individuo escogido a Quien los Baha’ llamamos “Manifestacién de Dios.’’ Esta Manifestacién repite en cada era el propésito y la voluntad de Dios. Sus ensefianzas son una revelacién de Dios. Abraham, Moisés, Zoroastro, Cristo y Mahoma fueron Manifestaciones de Dios. Cada uno dio a los hombres ensefianzas divinas para que vivieran de acuerdo con estas. Los Baha’is creemos que la verdadera religién es la base real de la vida civilizada.

Por el hecho de que existe un solo Dios, estas Manifestaciones de Dios han ensefiado cada una la misma Fe religiosa. La han desarr Important notice for all believers The National Spiritual Assembly wishes to inform the community that it has no responsibility and will not accept responsibility for the results of

SPANISH

any loan to or any financial transaction with Dr. Farhang Holakouee, and therefore anyone who makes any loan to or engages in any financial transaction with him does so at his

ollado y adaptado para solucionar © satisfacer las necesidades de los hombres en cada periodo de la historia. Este desarrollo de la religion de edad en edad se llama: ‘“‘Revelacién Progresiva.””

Esta es la base de la creencia Baha’i: Dios ha dado a los hombres una Fe por media de revelaciones progresivas de Su voluntad en cada epoca de la historia. Bahá’u’lláh ha revelado la Voluntad de Dios para la humanidad para esta epoca. Esta creencia bdsica capacita a los Baha’is para unirse y trabajar juntos a pesar de sus diferentes creencias religiosas anteriores.

¢Cual es el Mensaje de Dios en este Dia?

Baha’u’llah, la Gloria de Dios, renueva el espiritu de la fe en el mundo. Ensefia que el Plan de Dios para esta nueva era es unificar a todas los religiones, razas, naciones y clases de la humanidad y, a la vez, espiritualizar el cardcter. Baha’u’llah dio énfasis a ciertos principios que facilitaran la union de los pueblos del mundo:

Cada quien debe de buscar la

verdad por si mismo.

El hombre y la mujer deben de

tener los mismos derechos y privilegi

‘odos los nifios deben de re ir una educacidn.

Los extremos de riqueza y

pobreza tienen que ser eliminados. © La Fe tiene que ser la causa de

la unidad y la harmonia.

De esta manera, Dios esta estableciendo Su Reino en la Tierra asi como nos prometio Jesucristo.

~Como han de vivir los Baharis?

La Fe Baha’i ensefia que el propésito de nuestra vida es acercar el alma a Dios hacia todas las gentes. Debemos de orar diario porque la oracién nos purifica el corazon y nos acerca mds a Dios. También debemos de compartir el Mensaje de Bahd’u’ll4h con nuestras familias y compafteros. De esta manera se esparce la Palabra de Dios y se establece el Reino de Dios en la Tierra como nos prometié nuestro Sefior Jesucristo.

Baha’u’llah_ enuncié: ‘‘Unid vuestros esfuerzos, oh gente de Baha, que acaso el tumulto de disenciones que agitan a los pueblos de la tierra, sean apaciguados. Aquello que el Sefior ha ordenado como el remedio soberano y el instrumento més grandioso para la curacién de todo el mundo, es la unidad de todos los pueblos en una Causa Universal, una Fe comin. ... No debe enorgullecerse aquel quien ama su patria, sino aquel quien ama al mundo entero. ... La tierra es una sola patria, y la humanidad sus cuidadanos.””

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James A. Sharp Jr. (second from left), the mayor of Flint, Michigan, receives a copy of ‘The Promise of World Peace’ from

Baha’is (left to rigat) Randall

A ! Kizer of Davison Township, Hermione Pickens of Flint, and Murene Semple Hawkins of Genesee Township.

Mayor of Flint, Michigan, responds warmly to ‘Promise of World Peace’

On May 20, Baha’is in the Flint, Michigan, area presented a copy of the peace statement ‘‘The Promise of World Peace’’ to Mayor James A. Sharp Jr. of Flint.

The mayor had just returned from a trip to China, before which he had been given a ‘‘Mankind Is One’’ T-shirt by a Baha’i from Flint, Hermione Pickens, while he was attending a retreat at the Louhelen Baha’i School sponsored by the Flint Human Relations Commission.

Mr. Sharp said he took the shirt with him to China, wore it on several occasions, learned to say “mankind is one’’ in Chinese and ended each one of his speeches with that phrase.

As a result of his contact with the Baha’is, the mayor said:

He would like a Baha’i representative on the Twin Cities

Committee which promotes good will and understanding between Flint and its ‘“‘sister city’ in China, Changchun.

He would like to make a

public presention of his China trip (slides and talk) at the Louhelen School because, he said, ‘‘cultural diversity is more appreciated at your school.’’

When the next cultural/educational exchange between Flint

and Changchun takes place next October, he wants the Chinese youth brought to Louhelen so they can “‘experience the Baha’i school.’”

On behalf of the Spiritual Assembly of Flint, the mayor was given a plaque in honor of his peacemaking efforts locally, nationally and internationally.

The presentation was filmed and broadcast that evening on local television. [Page 19]

Zouhourallah Sobhani

Zohourallah Sobhani, who was born in Sangsar, Iran, in 1914, passed away in New York City in May. Mr. Sobhani, who had been a homefront pioneer in Iran, served the Cause devotedly in the U.S. as well. The following obituary, submitted by the Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of the City of New York, gives a brief outline of his services to the American Baha’i community:

Our dear friend Mr. Zohourallah Sobhani passed away May 17 in New York City.

Having moved to New York City in 1969, though a seemingly unassuming person, Mr. Sobhani became a mighty pillar of the community of the City of the Covenant. He was a steady teacher of the Faith, compensating for his language barrier by warm manners and hospitality.

His resounding voice chanting the sweet melodies of

Abdu’l-Bahá’s prayers still echoes in our memories,

and we know that Mr. Sobhani has been a loving link between the Persian friends and the American Baha’is, always an example of service and involvement at the Baha’i Center, always ready to welcome visitors of different ethnic backgrounds.

Helping and encouraging committees by his steady support, Mr. Sobhani attended Indian pow-wows with the Native American Relations Committee, went teaching in the streets and festivals of New York City with the Displays Committee, and, donning his native costume, was the first to respond and march with Baha’i delegations in parades around the city. And still, Mr. Sobhani found time to participate in and support neighborhood Baha’i community events. Whatever the event, the friends always knew that “Mr. Sobhani will be there.”’

The love and radiance that Mr. Sobhani bestowed on the Baha’i community was returned to him and his children, Bahei, Mouhebat and Enayat, as well as to his nieces and nephews, at his memorial on May 25, when the Baha’i Center was the site of an overflowing attendance. Though speaking of sadness, we smiled, feeling united in the memory of such a beloved friend who now must be so happy in the Abhá Kingdom with Baha’u’llah and the Master whom he so longed to see.

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[Page 21]The American Baha’i / August 1986 / 21

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‘The Promise of World Peace’

Pron ae mayor and the four other members of the council were Bahá’ís Michael Taylor and Debra Taylor. As always, the council session was broadcast on local cable television.

Mayor David Smith of Newark, California, receives a copy of ‘The Promise of World Peace’ during a city council meeting January 23. Making the presentation to the

On April 25, Mayor James Leslie (center) of Hinton, West Virginia, and three members of the city council were given copies of ‘The

hd’is (left to right) Sorcur Payman, Khodam-Rad Payman, Dr. Bahman Payman, Michael Doo On June 8, Race Unity Day, Mrs. Diane Smith Grych presented a copy of ‘The Promise of World Peace’ on behalf of the Baha’is of Princeton, West Virginia, to Earlie Moon, president of the Mercer County chapter of the NAACP, at the AME Zion Church in Bluefield.

On March 4, ‘The Promise of World Peace’ was presented to Berlin Myers (right), the mayor of Summerville, South Carolina, by

More photos of presentations to public

Promise of World Peace’ by Ba On March 20, a delegation of Baha’is from Montgomery County, Maryland, presented a copy of ‘The Promise of World Peace’ to U.S. Rep. Michael Barnes (center) of Maryland’s 8th Congressional District. The presentation was

man, Patricia Dooman, and Parisa Payman. A photo of the presentation appeared in the local newspaper.

William A, Reeves of Summer ville. Also present were Bahd’ John Lansdowne Jr. and Adrienne E. Reeves.

officials, groups

made in Congressman Barnes’ office in Washington. Pictured (left to right) are Arthur Bunyon, Doh Linh Khai, Nazila Khoshkhoo, Dr. Elsie Austin, Congressman Barnes, Allahina Russell, Dale

aa

The mayors of the three largest cities in Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley were each given copies of ‘The Promise of World Peace’ during their joint meeting held April 24 in Bethlehem. Bahá’í spokesman Ginny Mair Harry

Tom Hayden (right), a member of the California state Assembly, receives a copy of ‘The Promise of

World Peace’ from Santa Monica Baha’is Dr. Alfred Neumann and

presentation, March 14 in Rep. Hayden’s ofSice, was Dr. Hoda Mahmoudi Dabell.

Shore, Leon Jones, Larry LaCrosse and John Dale. Also helping to plan the presentation were Cynthia Love, Ajit Paratkar, Kioumars Aghazabeh, Ezatullah Rassekh and Asenath Weaver.

2

(second from left) of Allentown is pictured presenting copies of the statement to (left to right) Mayor Panto of Easton, Mayor Marcincin of Bethlehem, and Mayor Dadonna of Allentown.

Sheila Banani. Also attending the which was made

[Page 23]On April 4, U.S. Rep. George Gekas of Pennsylvania (center) received a copy of ‘The Promise of World Peace’ from two members of the Spiritual Assembly of Harrisburg, Behzad Zandieh and Joyce Fox. The congressman, who promised to read the statement

carefully on his return to Wash Judith Mendenhall (second from right), the mayor of High Point, North Carolina, receives a copy of the statement ‘The Promise of World Peace’ from High Point

On January 18, U.S. Sen. Steve Symms of Idaho (fourth from left) was given a copy of ‘The Promise of World Peace’ by a

Ay

ington, said after glancing at it that he agreed with the need fora world language and had often thought about it when he was a college student. He asked an aide to research and prepare for hima report on Esperanto, and asked his secretary to start a file on the Baha’i Faith.

Baha’is (left to right) David Jurney, Vedad Jurney and Douglas Johnson. The presentation was made April 28.

delegation of Baha’is representing the Spiritual Assembly of Blackfoot, Idaho (left to right) Louard Crumbaugh, Laura Perkins, Zem

On January 17, Baha’is representing the Spiritual Assembly of

Seattle, Washington, presented a copy of ‘The Promise of World

Dr. Robert K. Woetzel (left), president of the UN-affiliated Foundation for the Establishment of an International Criminal Court and International Criminal Law Commission, accepts a copy of ‘The Promise of World Peace’ from Woodrow Jackson, chairman of the Spiritual Assembly of Culver J.D., California. The presentation was made during a public meeting April 4 at which more than 60 people heard Dr. Woetzel speak on ‘Terrorism and an International Criminal Court.”

Dixey, Jon Lyksett and Aziz Ghalili. Second from right is Sen.

Symms’ administrative assistant,

Sally Greenhalgh.

The American Baha’i / August 1986 / 23

Peace’ to Gov.

U.S. Rep. Dan Schaefer of Colorado (fourth from right) accepts a copy of ‘The Promise of World Peace’ from Bahá’ís representing

the Spiritual Assembly of Lake wood. Shown with the Congressman are (left to right) Charles

ie

Florida (second from right) re ceives a copy of ‘The Promise of

World Peace’ from a delegation coordinated by the Spiritual As On January 28, Baha’is in Wisconsin presented a copy of ‘The Promise of World Peace’ to Gov. Anthony Earl at the Capitol conference room in Madison. The

Booth Gardner (second from left). Pictured with the governor are (left to right) Na

‘omi Robinson, Megan McCarty, Allen Goldblatt, Linda Stevens and Robert Wilson.

“Chuck’’ Bennett, Roya Mahmoudi, Robert “‘Bob’’ Bitts, Robin Campbell, Nancy Jones, Myron Wilson and Betty Stellmaker. The presentation was made January 15.

sembly of North Dade County (left to right) Dr. Harold E. Guinyard, Ezekiel A Poitier Sr. and Dr. Iraj Majzub. The presentation was made on January 16.

governor acknowledged the gift by reaffirming his personal alignment with the ideals of the Faith,

and said he would read the peace statement. [Page 24]24 / The American Baha’i / August 1986

More than 60 attend weekend Grand Teton Youth Retreat

More than 60 youth attended the Grand Teton Regional Youth Retreat over the Memorial Day weekend at the home of J.F. and Stacie Strain in St. Anthony, Idaho.

This unique ‘‘family experjience’’ included eight non-Baha’is, 15 pre-youth, and just enough adults to help provide transportation and teach.

Weekend highlights included presentations by Auxiliary Board member Carol Brooks on ‘‘Understanding the needs of the ’80s

through popular music’’ and by Chris Weixelman, a member of the Regional Youth Committee, on teaching.

While there were many of the

‘usual’’ retreat activities, such as singing, dancing, eating and waiting for one’s turn in the shower, there were also some “‘unusual’’ activities like a trip to Yellowstone National Park for a group photo.

The trip was preceded by an excellent class in the geological history of the area by Tom Lach

Hand of Cause John Roberts guest at Southeastern Youth Conference

The Hand of the Cause of God John Robarts was the honored guest at the Southeastern Regional Baha’i Youth Conference held June 18-22 near Huntsville, Alabama.

This first Regional Youth Conference of the Six Year Plan was attended by about 150 Baha’is from most of the southern states.

The conference sought to emphasize spiritual development of the youth as well as racial harmony, teaching the Faith, and the peace statement released last fall by the Universal House of Justice.

Soo Fouts, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly, helped the youth to understand their duty to prepare for the working world and to see it as an opportunity for service to the Cause of God.

Held at Alabama A&M University, a school dedicated to the advancement of minorities, the conference dedicated much of one day to the issue of racial harmony.

Speaking on the topic of ‘‘Civil Rights Today” was Bernice King, the daughter of slain civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who said, “I hope that one day we will have harmony between the races.’””

Miss King, a 23-year-old graduate of Spelman College in Atlanta who shared the dais with Counselor Wilma Brady, vicepresident of development and public relations at Spelman, was visibly moved as she was presented with copies of ‘‘The Promise of World Peace’ and Gayle Morrison’s biography of the Hand of the Cause of God Louis Gregory and a silver commemorative plate engraved with Baha’wlláh’s admonition to ‘‘close your eyes to racial differences and

If you can’t pioneerdeputize!

welcome all with the light of oneness.””

Mrs. Beatrice Covington, wife of the president of Alabama A&M University, also was given a copy of the peace statement and said it would be placed in the library at the president’s mansion.

Other general session speakers included Auxiliary Board member William Roberts and Ellen McAIlister Jordan, who has devoted much effort to the ‘Fort Tabarsi’”” teaching campaign in South Carolina.

Dr. Roy Jones, director of the Louis Gregory Institute, moderated a panel discussion on the Baha’i teachings on race unity.

One of the high points of the conference came when children of interracial couples on the panel answered the question, ‘‘Isn’t it a difficult life for the children of an interracial marriage because they are part of neither the white nor the black culture?”

The children were unanimous in answering that they felt quite comfortable with who they were and how they mix with both black and white groups at school.

Another conference speaker was Rúḥíyyih Jahanpour, now living in Canada, who shared jail cells in Iran with Baha’i women who were later hanged and was herself beaten and threatened with death to persuade her to recant her faith.

Entertainers performing at the conference included Maureen Sidio; Patrice Henderson; Wilford Johnson and Debbie Bley; and Tim Alford and jim Parker.

The conference was the top news story on local television Saturday night, ending with the conference title, ‘World Peace Is Inevitable.”’

The speeches by Misses King and Jahanpour were covered in two major area newspapers.

mar, a PhD. candidate in geology.

The really ‘‘hot’’ activity was.a trip to Green River Hot Springs where the young people swam, soaked, talked and burned.

A key idea was presented by four members of the Regional Youth Committee who offered the youth an opportunity to become leaders in the emerging peace movement. The importance of working with non-Baha’i groups, and of working for peace (not just enrollments) was discussed.

It was pointed out that the Universal House of Justice has explained that the world has the responsibility of establishing the Lesser Peace, and that Baha’i youth can help in that process only if they work alongside non-Baha’is.

Members of the Western Colorado Baha’i Youth Club (eight Baha’is and two friends) performed a song entitled ‘‘Year of Peace’’ which was arranged and rehearsed during a 12-hour drive to Idaho.

Besides Colorado, the youth came from California, Idaho and Utah. The Idaho-Colorado-Utah axis was established three months earlier at a youth gathering in Salt Lake City, after which the Idaho youth were so inspired that they pledged to reunite the group in their home state.

Pictured are Bahá’í youth and their guests who attended the Grand Teton Regional Youth Retreat over the Memorial Day weekend in St. Anthony, Idaho.

Yes, that’s ‘Old Faithful’ in the background; the photograph was taken at Yellowstone National

Park,

Growing number of U.S. legislators, governors have been given copies of ‘Promise of Peace’

More than 80 heads of state including President Reagan have been presented copies of ‘‘The Promise of World Peace.’’ Seven members of the Supreme Court and UN Secretary-General Javier Pérez de Cuéllar have also received the statement.

As of July 25, the following federal legislators and state governors have received the statement:

Alabama—Rep. Erdreich. Arizona—Rep. McCain. Arkansas—Rep. Alexander, Rep. Robinson.

California—Rep. Bosco, Rep. Chappie, Rep. Fazio, Rep. Stark, Rep. Lantos, Rep. Mineta, Rep. Beilenson, Rep. Waxman, Rep. Berman, Rep. Hawkins, Rep. Drier, Rep. Torres, Rep. Brown, Rep. Dannemeyer, Rep. Packard, Rep. Bates, Rep. Hunter.

Colorado—Sen. Hart, Rep. Brown, Rep. Schaefer. Connecticut—Rep. McKinney, Rep. Rowland. Delaware—Rep. Carper.

Florida—Sen. Chiles, Rep. Bennett, Rep. Chappell, Rep. Gibbons, Rep. Shaw, Rep. Smith, Rep. Fascell. Georgia—Rep. Gingrich. Idaho—Sen.

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Symms, Rep. Stallings.

Mlinois—Rep. Porter, Rep. Annuntio, Rep. Martin, Rep. Michel, Rep. Bruce, Rep. Durbin. Indiana—Rep. Burton, Rep. Jacobs.

Towa—Sen. Grassley, Rep. Leach, Rep. Tauke, Rep. Smith, Rep. Bedell. Kentucky— Rep. Mazzoli, Rep. Snyder. Louisiana—Rep. Roemer. Massachusetts—Rep. Atkins. Maryland Gov. Hughes, Rep. Holt, Rep. Barnes. Michigan—Rep. Siljander, Rep.

Henry, Rep. Kildee, U.S. Rep. Van Der Jagt. Minnesota—Rep. Penny, Rep. Frenzel, Rep. Strangeland. Mississippi—Rep. Montgomery, Rep. Lott.

Missouri—Rep. Clay. MontanaRep. Williams. Nebraska—Rep. Bereuter, Rep. Smith. Nevada—Rep. Reid. New Hampshire—Sen. Humphrey, Gov. Sununu, Rep. Gregg. New Jersey—Rep. Torrizelli, Rep. Courter.

New Mexico—Gov. Anaya, Rep. Richardson. New York—Rep. Carney, Rep. Mrazek, Rep. Lent, Rep. McHugh, Rep. Horton, Rep. Lundine. North Carolina—Sen. Helms, Sen. East, Rep. Valentine, Rep. Coble, Rep. McMillan, Rep. Broyhill.

North Dakota—Gov. Sinner, Rep. Dorgan. Ohio—Gov. Celeste, Rep. Kaptur, Rep. Pease, Rep. Seiberling, Rep. Regula, Rep. Stokes. Oklahoma—Gov. Nigh, Rep. Jones, Rep. English.

Oregon—Rep. Smith, Rep. Wyden. Pennsylvania—Rep. Coughlin, Rep. Ritter, Rep. Walker, Rep. Gekas, Rep. Goodling, Rep. Murphy. Rhode Island—Gov. Di Prete. South Carolina—Gov. Riley, Rep. Derrick.

Tennessee—Rep. Sundquist, Rep. Ford. Texas—Rep. Chapman, Rep. Pickle, Rep. Stenholm, Rep. Combest, Rep. Ortiz. Utah—Sen. Garn. Vermont—Sen. Stafford, Sen. Leahy.

Virginia—Rep. Whitehurst, Rep. Olin, Rep. Slaughter, Rep. Wolf. Washington—Gov. Gardner, Rep. Miller, Rep. Morrison. West Virginia—Rep. Staggers. WisconsinGov. Earl, Rep. Kastenmeier, Rep. Petri.

The National Spiritual Assembly expects the remaining federal officials to receive copies of the peace statement in the near future.

Please send a report to the New Haven, Connecticut, office of the National Spiritual Assembly of any completed presentations to members of Congress or governors that are not listed here.

The National Spiritual Assembly wishes to remind the Baha’i community that individuals, Groups and Assemblies need to ask permission from the National Assembly through its New Haven office before contacting national figures and organizations.

If you have having problems setting up an appointment with or meeting an assigned national official, please contact the National Spiritual Assembly in New Haven (Baha’i Office of External Affairs, 26 High St., New Haven, CT 06510; phone 203-787-0303).

Pueblo leader invites Baha’is to discuss ‘Promise of Peace’

The pueblos of New Mexico, which are Indian Reservation villages, have been closed to religious groups and missionaries for quite a few years.

During the past three years, however, the Picuris Pueblo was visited by two “Trail of Light’’ teams, and recently, the governor of Picuris was presented a copy of “The Promise of World Peace.”

Shortly afterward, he invited the Baha’is to spend one of the annual Picuris Festival days with the pueblo community to discuss the peace statement.

The gathering was held July 4, with Chester Khan, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly, and Maynard Eakin representing the Faith. [Page 25]INTERMEDIA

News from Office of Public Information

SIGNIFICANT MENTIONS

The ‘‘Society World’’ section of the June 9 issue of Jet magazine features legendary tap dancer Fayard Nicholas of the famed Nicholas Brothers and his wife, Mrs. Barbara Nicholas. The couple celebrated their 19th wedding anniversary with what the magazine called ‘‘a special Baha’i wedding ceremony”’ in Woodland Hills, California. Two photographs of the couple also included Fayard Nicholas’ two sons.

The May 31 international edition of The Jerusalem Post included a short feature article and photograph of Rúḥíyyih Rabbani (the Hand of the Cause of God Amatu’l-Bahá Rúḥíyyih Khanum). The article, which gives a short biography of Mme. Rabbani as well as a synopsis of the Baha’j Faith, says she does not consider herself a pessimist. On the contrary, she says, ‘“‘that feeling of optimism for the glorious future of the human race the Baha’i Faith predicts is something to cling to. Otherwise, I'd be bitterly disillusioned with the world.””

The June 23 edition of The Chicago Tribune printed a photograph of a large congregation of Hindus who had gathered for the blessing of their first Chicago-area temple. Beneath the picture, the cutline declared that ‘‘plans call for the temple, when completed, to be as distinctive in its setting as the Baha’i temple is in Wilmette.”

Eremina Mvura, a Baha’ from Zimbabwe, was featured in an article in the ‘‘Style’’ section of The New York Times when she was honored by the United Nations on behalf of all African women farmers. While the article doesn’t mention the Baha’i Faith, Ms. Mvura told staff members at the Baha’i International Community’s UN office that she declared her faith two years ago. The Baha’i International Community was one of the co-sponsors of the symposium Ms. Mvura attended, entitled ‘‘Food Security: The African Woman Farmer.”

After describing the arduous life of the women who produce nearly 80 percent of sub-Saharan Africa’s food, Ms. Mvura said, ‘‘The women of Africa—I don’t think they need food. We need help to improve our agricultural system, so we can produce more. Not to make people dependent,”’ she added, ‘‘but self-suffi it, with dignity.’’

The quarterly bulletin of the Association of World Federalists, the World Federalist, recently ran an article on ‘‘The Promise of World Peace’ by Philip Hainsworth, a member of that Association who also serves on the National Spiritual Assembly of the United Kingdom. BUSY BAHA’iS

The Key West Citizen recently published a half-page feature article on

the Faith which included three photographs, one of a member of the

Spiritual Assembly of Key West, Florida, and one each of the House of Worship in Wilmette and the Seat of the Universal House of Justice in Haifa, Israel. The article also used extensive quotes from the peace statement as well as an expression of the 11-member Baha’i community’s hopes for building or leasing a Baha’i Center during the coming Six Year Plan.

Several Iranian-American Baha’is living in Atlanta, Georgia, told the story of their flight from Iran to the U.S. in feature articles printed in ithe ‘‘People’’ section of the Marietta Daily Journal and other Neighbor Newspapers. Companion articles provided synopses of the Faith as well as photos of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. The articles were published after a local public information representative sent a note with press releases about recent executions making these martyrs’ relatives available for interviews.

The front page of the ‘‘Metro’’ section of the Flint Journal in Michigan carried a large photograph of Sioux Indian Kevin Locke performing a traditional Native American hoop dance at the Louhelen Baha’i School in Davison. An accompanying article described the peace ceremony and the three-day conference sponsored by the Louhelen Native American Task Force, and underscored the underlying harmony between the Faith and traditional Native American values.

The Wisconsin State Journal covered an International Year of Peace panel discussion, ‘‘World Peace Through Racial Unity,”’ sponsored by the Baha’is of Madison, Wisconsin, in an article on the front page of its ““Metro”’ section. The article stressed the panel’s main theme, which was the elimination of racial prejudice as a key to the establishment of world peace.

An article on the front page of the Evening Independent’s ‘‘Home”’ section highlighted the Faith’s principles and history and featured a member of the Spiritual Assembly of St. Petersburg, Florida. It pointed out that in St. Petersburg alone, the number of Baha’is has doubled in the last year.

The video, ‘‘Mona’s Story,’ was shown twice in recent months. The Baha’i Media Council of North Bay reports that Channel 22 in the Rohnert Park/Cotati, California, area aired the tape in June, while in April, the Baha’is of Warren County and Hartford, Iowa, played the tape during a proclamation event in Hartford where about half the audience was comprised of non-Baha’is.

The Baha’is of Indianapolis, Indiana, have taped seven meditations, readings from The Divine Art of Living, which were broadcast as signons and sign-offs for Channel 6 TV. They report that interest was widespread, with responses and requests for copies of the readings coming in from several communities in the station’s broadcast area.

The Greater Houston, Texas, Office of Public Affairs reports that, among many other recent media successes, a new peace ad slick was mysteriously printed without their prior knowledge simply because the editor of the Houston Peace News, a monthly paper of the Houston Peace Network, liked it and printed the quarter-page ad. The Baha’ is have no idea how the editor happened to come by the ad.

The American Baha’i / August 1986 / 25

Pictured (left to right) are the three top winners in the Middlesex News—Bahá’í Peace Essay Contest, Virginia Schleman, Louis Smith and Daniel Shore. The contest was co-sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Framingham, Massachusetts, and the local newspaper, with winners in the adult, youth and children’s categories chosen by a board of judges comprised of a cross-section of the Framingham community.

Prizes of $100 for first place and $25 for each of two runners-up were awarded at a subsequent event, the Symposium for World Peace, which was hosted by local Baha’is. The symposium also included a panel of speakers from the newspaper, various peace groups, and the Baha’i community. The first place winner in the children’s category, Louis Smith, is a Bahá’í, a fact unknown to the judges at decision time. In addi dlesex News printed two articles publicizing the contest and the winning essays. The mutual cooperation of the Bahd’{ community and the newspaper resulted in a project that promoted the serious discussion of world peace while it proclaimed the Faith in a manner beneficial to the entire community. (Photo courtesy of The Middlesex News)

Clearance-sale prices are now in effect for the media and proclamation materials listed below. This will be the last opportunity to purchase many of these materials—Baha’i librarians and media committees take note! You’ll want to complete your collections of these items now while they are at these very affordable prices.

FROM THE OFFICE OF PUBLIC INFORMATION BILLBOARDS “*Baha’i It’s a Revelation’’ (30-sheet) “‘Baha’i It’s a Revelation’ (6-sheet) PAPERS “The Baha’ is in Iran’’ and Update “Death in Tabríz” RADIO SERIES “Fireside Playhouse”’ (full series) “Fireside Playhouse’’ (demo only) TELEVISION SERIES AND VIDEOS ABC’s ‘20/20’ Program-Video U.S. 1/2-inch VHS or Beta Int’l. PAL or SECAM Capitol Hill Press Conference-Video 1/2-inch VHS or 3/4-inch Congressional Hearings (1982 or 1984) 1/2-inch VHS or 3/4-inch Senate Hearings on Torture (June 26, 1984) 1/2-inch VHS, Beta or 3/4-inch was $30/$45, now $15/$22.50

Make your check or money order payable to “‘Baha’i Services Fund.”’ Include 10 percent of the total for postage (75-cent minimum). Mail with your written order to: Baha’i Office of Public Information, Wilmette, IL 60091.

was $30, now $15 was $15, now $7.50

was $4, now $1.50 50/$1

was $25, now $12.50 was $5, now $2.50

was $37.50, now $18.75 was $50, now $25

was $25, now $12.50

FROM THE Baha’i DISTRIBUTION SERVICE

BUS CARDS ““Wage Peace”’ (11 1/2 x 27) pkg. 10 was $19, now $9.50

“House of Worship” (11 x 27 1/2) pkg. 10 was $12.50, now $6.25

POSTERS “House of Worship” (11 x 14) pkg. 10 “House of Worship’’ (20 x 23) pkg. 10

AD SLICKS Various Subjects (6 sheets/24 ads)

POSTCARDS “House of Worship”’ (pkg. 50) was $5, now $3.50

RADIO PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS

“‘Baha’i Themes”? (various) was $5, now $2.50 “Dizzy Gillespie” was $5, now $2.50 “Equality of Men and Women’’ was $5, now $2.50

Make checks payable to ‘‘Baha’i Distribution Service.”” NOTE: No postage is required if mailed in continental U.S. Mail with your written order to: Baha’i Distribution Service, 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 1-800-323-1880.

was $11, now $5.50 was $19.50, now $9.50

was $3, now $2

[Page 26]26 / The American Baha’i / August 1986

Letters

from page 3

consistently,’’ a stage of development not likely for a pre-schooler.

There is a letter on behalf of the Guardian specifically advising against nursery school for Baha’i children on the grounds that training at this age should be “‘at the hand of the mother.’”

Thus it would seem that the place for most pre-schoolers is in the home or with small, compatible groups under the observation

formative years by non-Baha’i standards and attitudes.

If Baha’i parents are not willing to assume this responsibility, how can they hope that their children

Baha’i institutions might do well to help mothers improve their competence in active listening to and observing the child and the consequent development of an understanding of his needs and improvement of the capacity for caring and loving as well as giving mothers ideas for teaching learning processes and basic science and spiritual concepts within the framework of everyday home ac tivities. Charles Hornby Quito, Ecuador To the Editor:

If you are planning a trip to England or are considering a stopover in London while en route for pilgrimage, you may like to come on a travel teaching trip to visit the Baha’i communities in the “heart of England.” We are less than two hours’ drive from London Airport and 80 minutes by train from London itself.

We need visitors who can talk to small evening gatherings, and feel that having visitors from out of town would be of great value to local believers and inquirers.

Our communities encompass the historic towns of Warwick, Stratford, Kenilworth and Coventry as well as Shakespeare country and the area to the north of Oxford City.

If anyone is interested, please contact Martin Beckett,

- Coventry CV3 6NB, England (phone 0203413002).

Martin Beckett Coventry, England

To the Editor:

A major objective of the Six Year Plan is the “‘further acceleration in the process of the maturation of local and national Baha’i communities.”

Baha’i youth have an important role to play in the development of local communities. Local youth clubs and Baha’i college clubs can be employed as a means of strengthening and invigorating the local level.

The formation of such clubs gives youth a sense of Baha’i identity and can lead to deepenings,

The National Baha’i Archives is seeking the records of Regional Teaching Committees for the 1930s and 1940s, particularly min utes and correspondence. Anyone who has such records should write

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

teaching projects, and youth activities at the local level, which is healthy for the Baha’i community as a whole.

The Bahd’{ youth in the U.S. have matured dramatically. The Guardian has called the Baha’is of North America the “‘spiritual descendants of the Dawn-breakers,”” and this generation of Baha’i youth, through the Youth Movement, are tapping into this destiny and aligning themselves more closely to the needs of the Faith.

Local youth and/or junior youth clubs offer your community the opportunity to enhance and reap the rich rewards of this growth.

This generation of Baha’i youth will be in the forefront of the Baha’i community as the Lesser Peace is ushered in. The foundation being built with the younger Baha’i community will set the tone for the future. We urge you to glease help inspire the initiation of youth activities at the local level.

Baha’i National Youth Committee Wilmette, Illinois

To the Editor:

I was one of the delegates to the National Convention whose name was still on the waiting list when time ran out. So I will use The American Bahá’í to voice my comments.

On peace: A group called ‘‘Beyond War’’ was mentioned by a delegate from California. The Baha’is had presented the head of that organization with their local Peace Award and have nominated the Universal House of Justice to be the next recipient of the Beyond War peace award.

For those of you who are not familiar with the award, it was presented two years ago to the International Physicians for Peace (who won the Nobel Peace Prize last year).

Last year’s recipients were the leaders of six countries that had signed the Five Continent Peace Initiative calling for the U.S. and Russia to conclude a peace treaty and offering their help in policing that treaty. Beyond War arranged for the first simultaneous live broadcast from all five continents for the presentation.

We Baha’is now have a choice of the kind of peace that will come. By action we can embrace the type of peace we all want, or by inaction we can be forced to peace, and many of us may well receive the peace of the grave.

On the Fund: We all know what needs to be done. We have been told by Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and Shoghi Effendi, and on Friday night the Hand of the Cause William Sears again told us the answer. What is the answer? It is to TEACH!

On teaching: Teaching is the answer! Let us not argue about which teaching is best. Remember the Campaign of Unified Action, and let each of us pursue his own avenue of teaching.

But we must all follow the advice of Shoghi Effendi and be audacious—willing to take risks, willing to make mistakes, but prepared, through the Administrative Order, to correct our mistakes, but not to stop teaching.

How will your community respond to the call from Mr. Sears? Will you think hundreds? thousands? or will you think millions?

Samuel L. Williams Yadkinville, North Carolina

Baha’is in Northern Illinois plan September walk to spark awareness of ‘Promise of World Peace’

Inspired by the friends in Utah, Baha’is in northern Illinois have planned a nine-day walk that will begin September 19 at the Mississippi River in Rock Island and end with a public program September 28 at the Baha’i House of Worship in Wilmette.

The purposes of the walk, which is being sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Wheaton, are to promote public awareness of ‘The Promise of World Peace,’’ enhance presentation efforts of various Assemblies and District Teaching Committees, and show a unified determination to support the goals of the Six

Year Plan.

This is a relay walk, not a marathon, and walkers are asked to volunteer for half a day or a whole day. Transportation will be provided for relay walk segments.

Lodging will be arranged in nearby Baha’i homes or in motels, where necessary. Participants should be prepared to pay for their own expenses.

The walk will be preceded by a proclamation event on the evening of September 19 at the Centennial Bridge in Rock Island.

Actual walking will begin the following morning and proceed at

an approximate rate of 20 miles per day. Walkers will not be on the highway after dark.

Proclamation events will be scheduled in nearby towns each evening.

All Baha’is in Illinois are urged to participate—by walking, providing financial or prayer support, taking part in proclamation events, and, for those along the route, providing hospitality.

For more information about the walk, write to the Steering Committee, c/o Spiritual Assembly of Wheaton, P.O. Box 782, Wheaton, IL 60189, or phone Sandra Bundy, 312-668-6343.

News in brief

18 embrace Cause in Lowell area

Eighteen people have embraced the Cause since last spring as a result of the ongoing teaching campaign in the Lowell, Massachusétts, area.

Consolidation efforts from last year have been successful and are continuing; there are four Cambodians on the new Spiritual Assembly of Lowell.

The campaign itself has been extended to neighboring towns.

.

The Baha’is of San Fernando, California, have announced the dates for the second Hispanic Conference, to be held October 11-13 in San Fernando.

The conference is co-sponsored internationally by the Spiritual Assemblies of Ensenada, Mexico, and San Fernando and Fillmore, California.

Check The American Bahá’í in September for more details about this significant conference.

°

The Raul Pavén Teaching Project in northern Arizona continues throughout the year with door-todoor, fireside and other forms of teaching to attract the hearts of new believers.

If you speak Spanish or English and would like to participate at any time, housing can be provided and transportation is available in the city; however, on the Navajo-Hopi Reservations and in other areas such as on the border near San Luis, and the area outside of

Regional SED conference set

in Los Angeles

“The Preservation of Human Honor,”’ a regional conference on social and economic development, will be held October 25-26 at the Baha’i Center in Los Angeles, California.

The conference will focus on these themes: application of spiritual principles; demonstration of rectitude of conduct; practice of the art of consultation; freedom from prejudice of all kinds; aspects of cross-cultural communication; and the arts and human development.

All Baha’is who live in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino and Ventura counties are urged to attend.

For registration information, please write to the SED Committee, c/o Eileen Estes,

_ Santa Monica, CA 90404.

Phoenix, you will need your own vehicle.

In all instances, teachers are responsible for their own meals.

The length of time to be spent is at your discretion. The project covers most of Arizona.

To confirm your travel teaching trip, phone 602-863-6167 or 602993-2347.

°

On June 15, about 30 people including 13 Baha’is from five communities attended a Race Unity Day meeting in Williamston, North Carolina.

The event was arranged by Robert Barnes, a Baha’i from Williamston, and sponsored by the Baha’is of North Carolina’s Eastern District.

After opening remarks by Willie Peele, principal of E.J. Hayes School, and by a representative of the mayor of Williamston, Baha’is Karen Tarlo of Wilson and Jay Scales of Durham spoke about the importance of fighting racial prejudice.

The program included music by pianist Ella Mae Ormond of Williamston and singer/guitarist Greg Meyjes of Chapel Hill.

°

Ancient Beauty, a new Compact Disc on the Philo label by Do’a, received an excellent review in the July issue of Digital Audio magazine.

The reviewer, Tommie Richardson, gave the disc perfect 10s for performance and sound quality.

“The members of Do’a—the name is a Persian word meaning a call to prayer,” he wrote, ‘are members of the Baha’i faith, which is founded on ‘the unity of the family of man.’ ’’

Baha’is Randy Armstrong and Ken LaRoche, the original Do’a twosome, are joined on the recording by percussionists Robert Bennett and Bill Kinzie.

“Do’a’s Eastern and African motifs are strong and identifiable,”’ writes the reviewer, “but

Peace Conference to have S.C. ‘satellite’

Asa follow-up to the Baha’ International Peace Conference in San Francisco, the Louis Gregory Baha’i Institute in South Carolina will host a ‘‘Satellite Peace Conference’’ September 19-20.

For more information, write to the Louis Gregory Institute,

Hemingway, SC 29554, or phone 803-558-5093.

the music is never strange to the Western ear. “*... Do’a’s compositions have a springing joy ...”” °

Last November, the 18th Guam Legislature approved a resolution recognizing ‘‘the efforts of the people who embrace the Baha’i Faith to effectuate the promise of world peace’’ and lauding the Baha’is “‘for publicizing this cause and encouraging mankind to work for this worthy and high goal.””

Copies of the resolution were sent to the National Spiritual Assembly of the Mariana Islands, the Universal House of Justice, President Reagan, the UN Secretary-General, the Pacific Basin Governor’s Council, the Association of Island Legislators, and the governor of Guam.

.

Three Baha’is from California, Joan Nemour and her daughters, performers Leslie and Kelly, traveled and taught the Faith for three weeks (May 3-23) in Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau, a trip arranged by the National Spiritual Assembly of Taiwan.

During their stay the team reached out through the medium of music to several thousand students at two universities, and gave special performances for the mentally disabled and for handicapped children.

The Baha’i themes of world peace and unity through diversity drew a warm response from audiences and the media wherever they went.

Answers to crossword puzzle ACROSS 1. Fulfillment 2. Lsel 6. Aim. 3. Lose 7. Soar 4. Err 8. Destroy 5. Try 9. Revealed 8. DA 13, Ran 10. Error 14. Bind y i Vague 18. Organic . Enact 19. DUI 15. 1D 20. Ouch 16. Nur 22. RV 17. Diverse 24. Akka 18.0 26. Sir 21. UK 28. Pair 23. Hope 32. Chains 25. Asia 33. Eternal 27. ing 34. Age 29. At 30. i.e. DOWN 31. RR 1. Fair 32. CA [Page 27]

10 YEARS AGO

More than 750 people attend special Bicentennial proclamation events sponsored July 3-4 at the Baha’i House of Worship in Wilmette by the National Spiritual Assembly.

Featured are performances by several ethnic choirs; a Sunday afternoon devotional program in English and Spanish; and a Bicentennial lecture by Dr. William Maxwell, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly and dean of the School of Education at California State University, Fresno. ...

An ambitious teaching cam paign called “Operation Outreach”? is under way in South Carolina to inform everyone within a 30-mile radius of the Louis Gregory Baha’i Institute about Baha’u’llah.

The South Carolina Regional Teaching Committee reports 30 declarations during the first two weeks of the campaign. ...

A local Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds is obtained in Bermuda, completing another property goal assigned to

the U.S. for the Five Year An intensive teaching campaign

in goal areas of Oregon results in declarations by 48 adults and 42 youth in three weeks, according to a report by the sponsoring Spiritual Assembly of Gresham.

Teachers begin each day with about two hours of prayer before breaking into small groups of two or three. As they teach, they extend invitations to public meetings which are arranged in each area. ...

On June 19, Glenford E. Mitchell, secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly, addresses a joint meeting of national committees in Foundation Hall at the House of Worship in Wilmette. ...

‘Twenty-four Baha’i youth including five Native Americans take part in a Youth Work/Study Project held June 13-25 at the Baha’i National Center.

The youth experience first-hand the Administrative Order in action. Their duties include typing, filing, mailing and helping the grounds and maintenance crews.

During the evenings, they attend classes conducted by the Hand of the Cause of God Zikru’lláh Khadem; Glenford Mitchell, secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly; Auxiliary Board member Thelma Jackson; and members of the National Center staff.

A highlight of the project is a teaching campaign June 20 in nearby Niles, Illinois, preceded by a “Design for Victory’’ conference attended by projecteers and other youth from nearby commu About 50 Baha’is attend training session June 25-27 in Agua Prieta, Mexico, that is designed to provide support for teaching and consolidation efforts along the Mexican-American border.

The project is a cooperative effort between the National Spiritual Assemblies of Mexico and the U.S. 5.

A record-breaking total of 85 Baha’is attends a Pioneer Training Institute held June 10-13 at the

i Bahá’í House of Worship in Wil

Snider

from page 4

lief in the importance of education. As a professor of agriculture at the University of Illinois, he encouraged many young people to get as much education as they possibly could and continued his

A memorial service was held May 25 at the Baha’i Center in New York City for Zohourullah Sobhani, a respected member of that community since 1969, who died May 17. Mr. Sobhani, a native of

Sangsar, Iran, was the greatgrandson of Siyyid Ahmad who was martyred at Fort Tabarsi. He was widely known in New York for his willingness to support any and all Baha’i activities, and kept in touch with friends and relatives all over the world through a constant flow of letters and photographs. On learning of Mr. Sobhani’s death, the Universal House of Justice cabled: ‘Grieved passing steadfast devoted servant Blessed Beauty Zuhurullah Sobhani. Assure his relatives friends loving prayers progress his radiant soul.”

Mabel S. Manly, 98; her family was taught faith by Louis Gregory

Mabel Sadgwar Manly, whose family was taught the Faith by the Hand of the Cause of God Louis Gregory and who became a Baha’i in 1975 at the age of 87, died Sunday, May 11, at her home in Wilmington, North Carolina, one month after observing her 98th birthday.

Mrs. Manly’s father, Frederick Sadgwar Sr., was probably the first person in North Carolina to accept the Faith, declaring his belief in 1925 after a visit from Mr. Gregory.

Later that same year his youngest daughter, Felice, became a Baha’i.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Manly and her husband moved to Philadelphia where they lived for 50 years. While there she worked as a horticulturist and practical nurse.

After her husband’s death in 1975, Mrs. Manly returned to Wilmington, accepted the Faith, and spent the last 11 years of her life teaching it to her many friends and acquaintances.

In September 1982, Mrs. Manly and her sister, who survives her, were brought from North Carolina to Wilmette, Illinois, by the National Spiritual Assembly for a special visit to the Baha’i House of Worship and National Center.

own studies in a variety of fields well beyond his retirement from the university at age 67 in 1953.

Following his retirement Mr. Snider responded to a call for pioneers and was sent to Key West, Florida, for which service he was named a Knight of Baha’u’llah.

Lucille’s health failed rapidly in the hot and humid climate, however, and she was ordered by her doctor to return to the north. The Sniders went back to Illinois where they continued to devote most of their time to promoting and serving the Faith.

When Lucille died in 1960, Howard was asked by the Western Hemisphere Teaching Committee to pioneer to Switzerland, which he did for four years, helping to organize the Swiss Baha’i Archives while teaching the Faith.

The American Baha’i / August 1986 / 27

Over the next few years he pioneered to Barbados and to Oaxaca, Mexico, where he began to suffer strokes. Forced by failing health to return to the U.S., he moved to Smyrna, Georgia, to live with his daughter, Mrs. Elaine Eilers.

Even while weak and ill, his burning desire was to teach the Faith. He served tirelessly in whatever capacity he was able, however small or humble, until his death in 1970 at age 86.

On hearing of his death, the Universal House of Justice cabled:

ieved learn passing Knight Bahá’u’lláh Howard Snider devoted steadfast dedicated believer distinguished services pioneer field. Convey family assurance prayers progress his soul Abha Kingdom.””

N.C. media ads lead to hour-long panel on radio talk show

On May 9, radio station WLLE in Raleigh, North Carolina, presented an hour-long talk show featuring a diverse panel of four a

The program resulted from the discovery by its two hostesses of public service announcements advertising local semi-monthly firesides that were being announced in 50 local media by the Greater Raleigh Baha’i Public Information Office.

Total cost of each PSA mailing: $7 (14-cent postcards).

One result of the program was the reaffirmation of faith by a listener who had been enrolled elsewhere and now wishes to rededicate his efforts.

IN MEMORIAM

Mabel Amidon Charles Ealey Richard Marshall Riverside, CA Cedar Grove, WV Allen, SD September 2, 1985 Date Unknown June 1986 Christine Anderson Socorro Fierro Jack McArter Spartanburg, SC EI Paso, TX Kentucky

Date Unknown March 1986 April 1986

Oscar Anderson Lancaster, KY

Clara Foster Chicago, IL

Lafayette, LA

April 1986 April 1986 June 5, 1986 Estelle Barrus Hormoz Ghobad Cozette McGee San Antonio, TX Sherman Oaks, CA Vernon, TX April 26, 1986 April 15, 1986 Date Unknown Kay Bateman Jessie Gifford Violet Meyers Austin, TX Broderick, CA Groveland, FL May 29, 1986 June 20, 1986 May 17, 1986 Keith Bateman Henrietta Goss Alphonse Miller Austin, TX Monrovia, Liberia Florence, SC May 22, 1986 May 1986 1985

Harry Barnes Nettie Gotcher Lopez Morales Chicago, IL Greenville, TX Eloy, AZ

May 29, 1986 Date Unknown Date Unknown Othad Barner Rico Grissit Betty Neal Cordele, GA Moore Haven, FL. Marietta, GA Date Unknown Date Unknown July 9, 1986

Annie Brown

Reinfred Harris

Henry D. Nelson

Esther McCollum

Chester Roubideaux + Mission, SD June 1, 1986 Ghodsich Samandari Walnut Creek, CA Date Unknown Katayoon Shahrokh Fond du Lac, WI May 13, 1986 Maceo Simpson Beaufort, SC Date Unknown John Singletary Pahokee, FL Date Unknown John Smith Chesapeake, VA February 10, 1986 Rance Smith Taylors, SC Date Unknown Shirley Smith Chesapeake, VA Date Unknown Versie Smith

Wapato, WA Teaneck, NJ Jackson, MS ‘Watonga, OK June 25, 1986 May 20, 1986 February 20, 1986 1984

Harvey Brown Willie Harris Jr. Louise Niblack Rosendo Solis Waskom, TX Lexington, SC Waukegan, IL Brownsville, TX Date Unknown Date Unknown February 9, 1986 Date Unknown Leona Chatman Annie Hawkins Alvin Norwood James Stevens Sr. Greenville, TX Americus, GA Bremerton, WA Ruffin, SC Date Unknown Date Unknown May 1986 ? July 1983

David Lee Clark Louis Hawkins Russell Owaleon Dan Steward San Jose, CA Greenville, TX Zuni, NM Ruffin, SC June 2, 1986 Date Unknown April 19, 1986 Date Unknown Patricia Conrad Joseph Hernandez John Owens Alice Strozier Auburn, CA Chicago, IL Beaufort, SC Grantville, OH June 21, 1986 February 13, 1986 Date Unknown Date Unknown Barbara Cummings Lewis Hilliard Annie Flo Parker Eleanor Svendsen Concord, CA Sun City, AZ Clewiston, FL Pompano Beach, FL June 28, 1986 May 9, 1986 Date Unknown May 1981 Martha Curtiss Johnnie Jackson Barney Patterson Lula Townsend Mesa, AZ Pahokee, FL Vernon, TX Rowland, NC September 27, 1985 Date Unknown Date Unknown July 1985

Mrs. Charles Decker Henry Jenkins / Lula Pierce William Vance Waskom, TX Ruffin, SC Florence, SC Hartford, CT Date Unknown 1982 1985 January 1986 Jean Dickson Lizzie Johnson Charles Prive Vernon Vincent Broderick, CA Watonga, OK S. Portland, ME Morton, IL June 9, 1986 March 19, 1986 June 9, 1986 May 14, 1986 Dorothy Dalleine Robert Johnson Habibullah Rahmani Sidney Way Commack, NY Portsmouth, NH Walnut Creek, CA Brownsburg, IN May 24, 1986 June 10, 1986 January 27, 1984 May 27, 1986 Puran Dhariwal Carol A. Joy William Roudy Dan Williams Mesa, AZ Richmond, VA Maxton, NC Ridgeville, SC April 14, 1986 June 13, 1986 January 23, 1985 1984

Ernest Dunk Ela Mae Key Frances Reaves Toney Wilson Lafayette, IN Pahokee, FL Mullins, SC Clewiston, FL April 29, 1985 Date Unknown Date Unknown Date Unknown Leroy Dominick Mary Linton

Lexington, SC Walnut Creek, CA

March 1, 1986 March 3, 1986 [Page 28]28 / The American Baha’i / August 1986

To avoid unnecessary delays in receiving “This oral easy be woudl foc ime etre

your copy of THE AMERICAN BAHA'I, your entire family. Please be sure to list

ee erare ee eee FULL NAMES AND LD. NUMBERS for 1 (0 the HEN.

RECORDS, Bahá’{ National Center, Wil- Sree ie Poneman

mette, IL 60091, as soon as you know where a

you are going to move and what your new

I MOVING? I TELL US YOUR I NEW ADDRESS

I address will be. 14 ib I Ibe Title Full name—Please DO NOT use nicknames Ue I ID# Title Full name ps I ID# Title Full name 1* 1DF Title Full name l — E js NEW MAIL ADD js Pictured are the Khmer Singers of right) Songhai, Vuthy, Songhy, | B—NEW RESIDENCE ADDRESS: ce BESS St. Petersburg, Florida. Front row Ramany, Kimthy, Youeth, Chan- | (left to right) Kimthier, Kimthai, thou, Narin. Back row (left to House/Space #, Street or Description P.O. Box or other Mailing Address Sopheap. Second row (left to right) Samoeun, Bruce Butler. I discussing with the English teach- | City State Zip City State Zip St. Petersburg er the difference between | ' “‘peach”’ and “‘pear.’’ She awoke Il D—NEW COMMUNITY: rom page 4 to a telephone call from a social aE Ga ae service agency asking if the Ba- | er, finding that they had con- ha’is would visit a newly arrived aE OR new. Bak ASL Moving dal sidered themselves to be Baha’is Cambodian family, ly I Name of new Baha’i community loving date all along. That evening, several Baha’is | E-HOME TELEPHONE NUMBER: F—WORK TELEPHONE NUMBERS: One night, the treasurer of the met that family, and much to their Please indicat in the right-hand space whose work numbers these are. Assembly called to get an accurate astonishment, the mother’s last | Z /

count of the number of believers for his Feast report, and was told by the chairman, jokingly, to call back the next morning for the most up-to-date account.

Not five minutes later, the Assembly secretary returned from a deepening and announced two more declarations.

One Baha’i had a dream about

Illinois Baha’is host ‘chocolate-tasting’ party as fund-raiser

As a fund-raising event, the Baha’is of Libertyville Township, IIlinois, recently invited Baha’is and their guests from surrounding communities to a ‘‘chocolatetasting party.’”

Everyone was invited to enter a contest to determine the tastiest chocolate dish (homemade or store-bought).

Voting was done by the chocolate ‘‘experts’’ using dollar bills as “‘ballots’’ (non-Baha’is were provided with and children offered play money). A $25 gift certificate, redeemable at the Baha’i House of Worship bookstore, was given to the person who brought the winning dish. After the tasting and voting were completed, leftovers were auctioned off.

A total of $134.50 was raised and forwarded to the National Baha’i Fund.

name was “‘Pheach’’ and she had a “‘pair’’ of daughters. All three have become active Baha’i teachers.

In one Cambodian neighborhood, one house has had three families living in it at different times. Each one has joined the Faith. The house is now empty and we are eagerly waiting to see if the next family that moves in will become attracted to God’s Cause.

With all the teaching activities, we've been given many proclamation opportunities. It is known throughout St. Petersburg that if you want to hear music about peace, you should call the Baha’i singing group, ‘New Horizons,” which has been asked to perform for the UN Association, the St. Petersburg Council on Human Relations, and many churches.

At a recent peace proclamation, a U.S. congressman said, with tears in his eyes, ‘‘What I am doing won’t work, but what you Baha’is are doing will work.”’

So what happened to that goal of 130 Baha’is by the end of the Seven Year Plan?

Well, as of March 1986 the number of Baha’is in St. Petersburg was 162.

We thank God for the 85 gifts this past year and for the understanding that ‘‘audacious’’ should be a common word in every Baha’i community.

Conferencia

Viene de la pag. 18

que hacerse de antemano. Ayude a que este proyecto tenga exito. Busque el formulario de donador en el numero de julio de The American Baha’i o pongase en contacto con: Blood Drive, 101 Via de Tesoros,

Los Gatos, CA 95030.

OPORTUNIDAD PARA VOLUNTARIOS: Hay necesidad de sus Servicios para muchas de las tareas que hardn que la conferencia sea un exito. Si Ud. puede ofrecer cualquier de sus talentos, favor de pedir hoy

el “‘volunteer information profile.’’

Escriba a la direccién a continua cién, o busque el formulario en The American Bahd’/: Volunteer Coordination Task Force, P.O. Box 243, El Cerrito, CA 94530.

Favor de Notar:

INSCRIPCION: A pesar de que los formularios de inscripcién en The American Baha’i se vean diferentes de los que estan incluidos en el folleto para la Conferencia sobre la Paz, ambos contienen la misma informaci6n y se puede usar cualquier de los dos.

FOLLETOS: Se encuentran disponibles gratis, al pedirselas, copias adicionales del folleto para la Conferencia sobre la Paz. Se enviaran a vuelta de correo. Escriba o llame a: Peace Conference Office, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (312-869-9039).

[| Area Code

Number

Area Code

Z

Number

Area Code — Number

Name

I G We receive extra copies because: iaz do not have the same last name.

the last names and addresses on our

‘We do not want extra copies, so address labels do not match exactly.

J _ please cancel the copy for the per‘son(s) whose name(s) and I.D. number(s) are listed above.

z

iImette, Illinois 60091

1 ORG. STAGE PAID WILMETTE, PERMIT NO. 479

‘We have listed above the full names ‘of all family members as they should appear on the national records, their I.D. numbers, and the corrections so that we will receive only one copy.

Baha’i NATIONAL CENTER

‘Our household receives only one copy of The American Bahá’í. 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.

Los Angeles

from page 1

tige of the community was to dissolve the Spiritual Assembly of Los Angeles, as announced at the community meeting on July 19. The major reason for this regrettable but necessary action was the inability of the Spiritual Assembly to cope with the demands of the administration of the community’s spiritual and operational affairs and the resulting deterioration of conditions in the commu nity.

The National Assembly perceives the remedy to be the mounting of a fresh program for the spiritual revitalization of the community. We have, therefore, taken a second step and appointed an administrative committee to carry out certain functions and to work toward the restoration of a vigorous pattern of community activities and the stabilization of the community’s affairs so that the Spiritual Assembly can be reestablished at the earliest possible date.

Should you wish to contact the committee, please call Mrs. Gry Kvalheim at the Los Angeles Ba ha’i Center.

The National Assembly is certain that each Baha’i in Los Angeles will give wholehearted support and cooperation to the admininstrative committee as it works to fulfill its responsibilities. We encourage every believer to ponder the loving words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá written to the early Baha’is of Los Angeles during a period of difficulty.

... Walk, therefore, with a sure step and engage with the utmost assurance and confidence in the promulgation of the divine fragrances, the glorification of the Word of God and firmness in the Covenant.

Rest ye assured that if a soul ariseth in the utmost perseverance and raiseth the Call of the Kingdom and resolutely promulgateth

the Covenant, be he an insignificant ant he shall be enabled to drive away the formidable elePhant from the arena. ...

Endeavor, therefore, that ye may scatter and disperse the army of doubt and of error with the power of the holy utterances. This is my exhortation and this is my counsel. ...

We know that the members of the Los Angeles Baha’i community possess the spiritual strength to undertake the demanding task which confronts them and we are ready to provide assistance to the community whenever needed. We ask for your prayers and we assure you of ours.

With warm regards,

National Spiritual Assembly of

the Baha’is of the United States

July 21, 1986

House of Justice, peace statement nominated for 1986 award from Beyond War Foundation

The Universal House of Justice and its statement “The Promise of World Peace’’ have been nominated for the 1986 Beyond War Award given each year by the Beyond War Foundation.

The nomination, made by Baha’is and Beyond War members William and Esther DeTally of

Manhattan Beach, California, was acknowledged in a letter from the Foundation dated June 17.

Its selection committee is pres: ently reviewing more than 300 nominations for the award. The recipient will be announced in September and the award given in December. �