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[Page 1]The American Bahá’í

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

Volume 18, No. 10 October 1987

A model of the Arc on Mount Carmel. The buildings to be erected on the Arc on the slope of Mount Carmel center on the Gardens in which stand the Monuments on the resting places of the Greatest Holy Leaf, Navváb, the Purest Branch, and Munírih Khánum. The buildings (left to right) are the International Bahá’í Library, the International Teaching Center, the Seat of the Universal House of Justice, the Center for the Study of the Sacred Texts, and the International Bahá’í Archives.

Arc on Mount Carmel to be completed

U.S. Bahá’ís must play major role in task

To the American Bahá’í community Dear Friends:

The National Spiritual Assembly is pleased to share with you this message from the Universal House of Justice to the followers of Bahá’u’lláh throughout the world. The subject of this message is the erection of the three remaining buildings of the Administrative Center on Mount Carmel, the construction of the terraces of the Shrine of the Báb, and the extension of the International Archives Building.

In this message the Universal House of Justice reminds us of the spiritual energies and new impulse which the completion of the Seat of the Universal House of Justice has released and given to the advancement of the Faith. The Universal House of Justice explains that the vastly augmented World Center structure will be capable of meeting the challenges of the ‎.tremendous tremendous‎ growth of the Bahá’í community which the beloved Guardian has told us to expect, and calls upon us to prepare ourselves for that hour whose coming it is our task to hasten.

We, the members of the American Bahá’í community, are challenged to play a major role in this great enterprise. Can we, whom ‘Abdu’l-Bahá epitomized as the “apostles of Bahá’u’lláh,” whose mission is “unspeakably glorious,” and whom Shoghi Effendi characterized as the “Champion builders” of Bahá’u’lláh’s mighty Administrative Order, fail to take our rightful “lion’s share” of the opportunity presented and raise a major portion of the funds needed to complete the building projects?

We ask the friends to take to heart the contents of this urgent appeal and consult on ways to (1) raise a major share of the funds requested by the Universal House of Justice, and (2) accelerate the expansion and development of the American Bahá’í community and its National Fund so that we may meet our growing obligations to the Bahá’í world and to all humanity.

Your plans and recommendations for meeting these challenges are essential to the deliberations of the National Assembly. In formulating a national campaign to respond to the request of the Universal House of Justice, we will need to have a sense of our capacity and commitment as a community. Therefore, we ask that you send your recommendations as quickly as possible.

The opportunities which the present age presents must be exploited for the purpose of spreading the knowledge of the redemptive power of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh. So precious an opportunity may never again recur. Now is the time, the appointed time, for us, the vanguard of the hosts of the Most Great Name, to proclaim our capacity and readiness to rescue a fallen generation that has rebelled against its God, and to offer it that complete security which only the stronghold of Bahá’u’lláh’s Faith can provide.

Our prayers surround you every step of the way. You may be assured of our continuing supplications that divine confirmations may descend upon you and enable you to arise with ever-increasing vigor and entire devotion to the pressing needs of the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh.

With warmest regards,

National Spiritual Assembly of

the Bahá’ís of the United States

September 21, 1987

Construction of Administrative Center promises to release mighty reservoir of spiritual energies

To the Followers of Bahá’u’lláh throughout the world Beloved Friends,

Nigh on one hundred years ago, Bahá’u’lláh walked on God’s Holy Mountain and revealed the Tablet of Carmel, the Charter of the World Center of His Faith, calling into being the metropolis of the Kingdom of God on Earth

Through decades of oppression and expansion, persecution and emancipation, His followers have successfully labored to carry His message to the remotest regions of the earth, to erect the structure of His Administrative Order, and to proclaim to mankind the divinely-prescribed cure for all its ills. In the past eight years the agonies suffered by His lovers in Iran have awakened the interest of a slumbering world and have brought His Faith to the center of human attention.

On this same Mount Carmel ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, with infinite pains, raised the Mausoleum of the Báb on the spot chosen by His Father, and laid to rest within its heart the sacred remains of the Prophet Herald of the Faith, establishing a Spiritual Center of immeasurable significance.

In accordance with the same divine command, Shoghi Effendi embellished the Shrine with an exquisite shell and then, under its protecting wing, began the construction of the Administrative Center of the Faith, to comprise five buildings in a harmonious style of architecture, standing on a far-flung Arc centering on the Monuments of the Greatest Holy Leaf, her Mother and Brother.

The first of these five buildings, the International Archives, was completed in the beloved Guardian’s lifetime. The second, the Seat of the Universal House of Justice, now stands at the apex of the Arc. Plans for the remaining three were prepared in fulfillment of a goal of the Seven Year Plan, and are now being detailed.

As indicated in our letter of April 30, 1987, the way is now open for the Bahá’í world to erect the remaining buildings of its Administrative Center, and we must without delay stride forward resolutely on this path.

Five closely related projects demand our attention: the erection of the three remaining buildings on the Arc and, added now to these, the construction of the terraces of the Shrine of the Báb and the extension of the International Archives Building. A brief description of each of these will convey an impression of their significance for the Faith.

• The Terraces of the Shrine of the Báb. In His plans for the development of Mount Carmel, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá envisaged 19 monumental terraces from the foot of the mountain to its crest, nine leading to the terrace on which the Shrine of the Báb itself stands, and nine above it. These plans were often referred to by Shoghi Effendi, and he completed in preliminary form the nine terraces constituting the approach to the Shrine from the central avenue of the former German Templar Colony.

• The International Teaching Center will be the seat of that institution which is specifically invested with the twin functions of the protection and propagation of the Cause of God. The institution itself, referred to by the beloved Guardian in his writings, was established in June 1973, bringing to fruition the work of the Hands of the Cause of God residing in the Holy Land and providing for the extension into the future of functions with which that body had been endowed.

• The Center for the Study of the Sacred Texts. This building will be the seat of an institution of Bahá’í scholars, the efflorescence of the present Research Department of the World Center, which will assist the Universal House of Justice in consulting the Sacred Writings, and will prepare translations of and commentaries on the authoritative texts of the Faith.

• The International Archives Building. We have decided to construct, westward, an extension to the basement of the present Archives Building to provide accommodation for the central office of the ever-growing Archives at the World Center. This institution is charged with responsibility for the preservation of the Sacred Texts and Relics and the historic documents of the Cause of God.

• The International Bahá’í Library. This Library is the central depository of all literature published on the Faith, and is an essential source of information for the institutions of the World Center on all subjects relating to the Cause of God and the conditions of mankind. In future decades its functions must grow, it will serve as an active center for knowledge in all fields, and it will become the kernel of great institutions of scientific investigation

See ARC page 4 [Page 2]

Wilmette: A nice area to live, work

Have you been reading our classified ads month after month but hesitated to contact us because you couldn’t imagine living in Chicago? But imagine opening your work day with prayers at the Mother Temple of the West. Imagine spending all day, every day, in service to the Cause of God. Imagine joining your fellow Bahá’ís in service to the Blessed Beauty. Imagine talking with Bahá’ís from around the country and around the world, helping to plan conferences, and consulting with the friends.

Service at the Bahá’í National Center offers all these opportunities and more to those who offer their skills, talents and energies to Bahá’u’lláh and His Cause. Bahá’ís from around the U.S. come together at the National Center to share their expertise and to place their energies toward fulfilling the goals of the Six Year Plan.

Opportunities for service outside the Center are plentiful, especially at the House of Worship, which is only a few blocks from the administrative offices. Here you can share the Message of Bahá’u’lláh with the hundreds of daily visitors to the Mother Temple, read at the Sunday devotional programs, or lift your voice in praise of God with the House of Worship choir. Providing hospitality for receptions, helping to plan special events, and assisting in the Activities Office are still more ways to serve this blessed Institution.

If you like children, take part in the RAMP (Reading and Math Program), the National Center staff’s recently adopted social and economic development project. This after-school and weekend tutoring program serves needy children from Chicago’s inner-city area.

The National Spiritual Assembly, recognizing the importance of the well-being of individuals, offers a livable wage, medical and dental insurance, life insurance, paid vacation and sick time, to all those who fill regular full-time positions. Staff are also able to enjoy Bahá’í Holy Days with family and friends, as it is the National Assembly’s practice to close the National Center on those days.

Service in your new community may be similar to what your experience is now, or you may find Bahá’í life quite different here. Whatever your situation, you’re always welcome to attend Feasts, deepenings, Holy Day observances and potlucks. Some of our area communities have adopted social and economic development projects, and all communities encourage the friends to involve themselves in civic, social and humanitarian efforts in each of their towns.

Living in the Chicago area may be a challenge to many as the cost of living is relatively high, life is faster-paced, and the changing seasons do not go unnoticed. However, the benefits of living in this area are many and varied. The Chicago area offers some of the finest educational systems in the country. Medical care is outstanding and readily available. Culturally, Chicago has many fine museums, art institutes and centers, theatre productions and restaurants; all are supported by the many ethnic and racial groups that live and work in the greater metropolitan area. For those friends who desire to advance their education, or brush up on rusty skills, several major universities call Chicago home including Northwestern University, the University of Illinois-Chicago, Loyola University, and Northeastern Illinois University.

Whatever your choice, do consider service at the National Center. Service here offers an opportunity for rare spiritual bounties, and the chance to use your professional training and skills on a daily basis for Bahá’u’lláh. It is the opportunity of a lifetime.

Although everyone is welcome to apply, secretarial and administrative aides are always needed. For job descriptions and applications, please contact the Department of Human Resources, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

We are presently accepting applications for the following positions: Marketing Assistant, Bahá’í Distribution Service (Bahá’í Publishing Trust); World Center Staffing Representative (Department of Human Resources); Minority Development Coordinator (National Teaching Committee Office); Administrative Assistant to the U.S./UN Representative (Office of External Affairs—New York City); Secretary (Office of External Affairs—Washington, D.C.); Program Assistant-Area Committees (Persian-American Affairs Committee Office); Program Assistant-Translator (Persian-American Affairs Committee Office); Secretary-Refugee Program (Persian-American Affairs Committee Office); Customer Service Representative/Receptionist (Bahá’í Publishing Trust).

New music video designed to help inner-city children

Milton Bullock, a member of the staff at the Bahá’í House of Worship and a former member of the well-known singing group, “The Platters,” is working with Michael Brownstein, director of the Chicago-based tutorial Reading and Math Program (RAMP) to produce a music video, “Don’t Blame It on the Kids.”

The new video is an offshoot of Mr. Bullock’s previous video, “Do It for the Kids,” which has inspired children in the RAMP to take action to help other children escape the influences of the ghetto and develop a strong sense of self-esteem.

Mr. Bullock was interviewed recently by American Cable Systems of Wilmette, Illinois, which is preparing a local news program about his work with “Do It for the Kids.”

The youngsters, he says, want to become examples in their neighborhoods; they want to stand up and say, “We don’t want drugs in our neighborhood!”

On the cable TV program, Mr. Bullock will be performing the song “Don’t Blame It on the Kids” with the Bahá’í Youth Choir of Chicago, directed by Mrs. Grace Mashaw. The children from the RAMP will perform in the video under the direction of choreographer Robert Reneau, a Bahá’í from Wilmette.

All interested musicians, Bahá’í and non-Bahá’í, are invited to take part in the production of this music video. Please contact Mr. Bullock at the Bahá’í House of Worship, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

Women’s rights do not preclude mother’s ‘right’ to train children

! VIEWPOINT

The Bahá’í writings often provide a perspective that helps us to see controversial issues in the light of a well-considered balance of important values and goals.

Such a perspective and balance are often missing in the heated debate over these issues in the larger society.

A case in point is the current issue of women’s rights.

Bahá’u’lláh was quite clear in proclaiming the equality of men and women, the right of both sexes to an education, and the right of women to have equal opportunities in the workplace.

But the Bahá’í writings also emphasize the great importance of establishing and maintaining a healthy family life within the home, thus providing a balanced perspective that is important to our understanding of the matter.

I hope that as Bahá’ís we won’t make the same mistake many feminists have made of equating the liberation of women with “liberation” from the home while their children are still young.

After all, why did Bahá’u’lláh say that education for girls was even more important than education for boys? He pointed out that this is because girls will become mothers and thus will be the first educators of their children.

And, as J.E. Esslemont writes, on page 147 of Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era, children are “to the end of their lives ... affected by the training of their earliest years.”

So if mothers are given this special and extremely important task—that of educating their children from their earliest years—why shouldn’t they be able to have the time and energy to devote themselves fully to the task?

And shouldn’t young children have the benefit of being taken care of—most of the time, anyway—by someone who cares enough to put heart and soul into the job?

Granted, fathers ideally play a large part in this process too.

Sometimes, families are able to work out an arrangement in which the parents alternate caring for the children while both work or go to school part-time; or, occasionally, a father may stay home to care for small children while the mother goes to work.

But in the great majority of cases, as Bahá’u’lláh implied when He said that mothers would be the first educators of their children, it is the mother who spends the greatest amount of time with the children during their formative years and thus is the one primarily responsible for their early training.

If the task is relegated to a babysitter or day-care center, it is unlikely that such substitute caregivers will be able to match the single-minded devotion of a loving parent toward fostering the best possible development of the child.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá comments on this single-minded devotion:

“Let the mothers consider that whatever concerneth the education of the children is of the first importance. ...Let them strive by day and by night to establish within their children faith and certitude ... and all good qualities and traits. ...For mothers are the first educators, the first mentors; and truly it is the mothers who determine the happiness, the future greatness, the courteous ways and learning and judgment, the understanding and the faith of their little ones.” (Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, pp. 125-26)

A sad aspect of the present trend in the women’s liberation movement is that women often actually feel guilty if they don’t return to work soon after a child is born.

This month’s column, “Mothering and Women’s Rights,” was written by Margaret (Meg) Berger of Columbia, Missouri, who works as a parent educator in a state-run program titled “Parents as Teachers” and is the mother of a teen-age girl.

I have spoken with mothers who really wanted to stay home with their baby or toddler but were feeling pressured by society to return to the workplace because that seemed to be what modern, “liberated” women were expected to do.

I do realize that some young mothers feel that they “have to work” either for financial or psychological reasons. My purpose is not to confront these women, and I would certainly not lay a “guilt trip” on a woman who has made that decision.

But I hope that parents will weigh carefully any financial benefits against the long-term benefits for their children of having a loving parent there for the greater part of their early care and training.

As for psychological reasons, it is true that a few women simply are not able to do a very good job of raising children and seem to do a better one if they only do so part-time. But these are the exceptions.

Most women can manage it, as long as they are able to take occasional breaks from the parenting job and, ideally, have a good support system from someone who cares.

As far as the advancement of a woman in whatever other fields she may choose, there should be plenty of time in her life for that, even though she has decided to devote a few years to doing her very best in the most important job anyone (male or female) is privileged to have in this life; namely, that of helping to form the character, the personality, and the mind of another human being. [Page 3]

LETTERS

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

The American Bahá’í welcomes letters to the editor on any topic of general interest. The purpose of the "letters" column is to allow a free and open exchange of ideas and opinions, never to denigrate another's views or to attack anyone on a personal level. Opinions expressed in these columns are not necessarily those of the National Spiritual Assembly or the editors.

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

Can't have cake, eat it too

To the Editor:

Having our cake and eating it too is an impossible thing to do. If we keep the cake we cannot eat it, and if we eat the cake it will be gone.

This is something that people the world over try and try to do but never succeed at. We also keep trying to do the same impossible thing by demanding more and more from the National Spiritual Assembly and the National Fund while we do not contribute enough to pay for what we want.

The National Assembly has taken many steps to cut costs, but costs can only be cut so far without losing the ability to operate properly.

If contributions do not increase, they will have to discontinue some operations or services that are now provided to bring costs back into line with income.

Let's put ourselves in their place. We have to make the decision on what to cut or discontinue. What would we do? Where would we cut? How do we not only stop going deeper into debt but pay off the more than two and one-half million dollars that we now owe?

We would have to make some choices that we would not like, but they would be necessary to bring expenses in line with income.

We could, for example, discontinue sending a free copy of The American Bahá’í to everyone, and lose communication with the national community.

Or, we could disband the various national committees and lose the creative plans they are formulating. We could close WLGI Radio and lose the goodwill that has been built. And there are other projects and costs that could be cut or even discontinued, but we lose every time.

We need to do more than simply balance the budget. We need to come up with a way to pay off our heavy debt and eliminate those draining interest charges.

We could sell one or more of the national properties such as one of the schools. But could we really put up a "for sale" sign at Bosch, Louhelen, Green Acre, the Louis Gregory Institute, or a rather special piece of property with nine sides that fronts Lake Michigan? The savings would be great, and the money would help pay off the debt, but could we really sell these special places? If the Fund does not improve, we may have no choice.

Thank God we are not on the National Assembly and do not I have to make such choices. But wait—are we not making these very choices for them by how much and how often we contribute to the National Fund?

We are fast approaching the point at which our beloved National Assembly will be left without any other choices to make, or time to delay making them.

It is up to us—you and me—the rank and file, the common person, to really make the final choice by how generously we contribute.

L.E. Nehlsen Santa Cruz, California

The Gregorys' marriage

To the Editor:

The front-page article (The American Bahá’í, July) on the marriage of Louis and Louisa Gregory made me feel very proud. This was a courageous act on the part of the editors. Thank you!

Now, a question:

In 1965, Ebony magazine ran a large article (about 10 pages) on the Faith. It was well-written and quite favorable.

In 1968 there was a well-composed, thought-provoking and appealing ad about the Bahá’í Faith in Ebony.

Where did that initiative go? Why did it stop? Could it be that too many Bahá’ís back then, as now, were (are) concerned about the Cause becoming a "black Faith"? I am only asking the question.

Mark Zipf Lenexa, Kansas

To the Editor:

In July, The American Bahá’í included an article on the marriage of Louis and Louisa Gregory.

Unfortunately, the article contained a couple of minor errors. First, let me assure you that there is no Dublin River. As far as I can tell, this is a mis-translation in Mahmud's Diary, as presently available in English, in the translation by Dr. Zia Bagdadi.

The proper reference should be to Dublin Lake, where local sources assure me that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá spoke on at least three occasions.

The other misstatement concerns the date of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá's address on racial unity. Mahmud refers to a date of August 2, not August 3. I have no independent source which suggests that this is wrong.

Allan Ward's book, 239 Days, mentions August 3 as well, but it is clear that he took his information directly from Mahmud's Diary and somehow changed the date in entering it into his text.

I would be happy to correspond with the writer of the article or with anyone who has letters, notes or other information about ‘Abdu’l-Bahá's visit to Dublin on July 25-August 16, 1912.

Phillip E. Tussing Peterborough, New Hampshire

Reminder from Guardian

To the Editor:

I think that a reminder of the instructions by the beloved Guardian in The Advent of Divine Justice (pp. 29-30) would be beneficial for every Bahá’í youth and adult.

Here is what the Guardian wrote:

"A chaste and holy life must be made the controlling principle in the behavior and conduct of all Bahá’ís, both in their social relations with the members of their own community, and in their contact with the world at large.

"It must adorn and reinforce the ceaseless labors and meritorious exertions of those whose enviable position is to propagate the Message, and to administer the affairs, of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh.

"It must be upheld, in all its integrity and implications, in every phase of the life of those who fill the ranks of that Faith, whether in their homes, their travels, their clubs, their societies, their entertainments, their schools, and their universities.

"It must be accorded special consideration in the conduct of the social activities of every Bahá’í summer school and any other occasions on which Bahá’í community life is organized and fostered.

"It must be closely and continually identified with the mission of the Bahá’í youth, both as an element in the life of the Bahá’í community, and as a factor in the future progress and orientation of the youth of their own country.

"Such a chaste and holy life, with its implications of modesty, purity, temperance, decency, and clean-mindedness, involves no less than the exercise of moderation in all that pertains to dress, language, amusements, and all artistic and literary avocations.

"It demands daily vigilance in the control of one's carnal desires and corrupt inclinations. It calls for the abandonment of a frivolous conduct, with its excessive attachment to trivial and often misdirected pleasures.

"It requires total abstinence from all alcoholic drinks, from opium, and from similar habit-forming drugs. It condemns the prostitution of art and of literature, the practices of nudism and of companionate marriage, infidelity in marital relationships, and all manner of promiscuity, of easy familiarity, and of sexual vices.

"It can tolerate no compromise with the theories, the standards, the habits, and the excesses of a decadent age."

Abbas Forootan Troy, Michigan

On disparity of Income

To the Editor:

Concerning the recent letters about the disparity of income within the Bahá’í community, I would like to offer a few reminders and admonitions from The Hidden Words on that topic.

From the Arabic:

O Son of Spirit! Vaunt not thyself over the poor, for I lead him on his way and behold thee in thy evil plight and confound thee for evermore. (No. 25)

O Son of Man! Deny not My servant should he ask anything from thee, for his face is My face; be then abashed before Me. (No. 30)

O Son of Man! Bestow My wealth upon My poor, that in heaven thou mayest draw from stores of unfading splendor and treasures of imperishable glory. But by My life! To offer up thy soul is a more glorious thing couldst thou but see with Mine eye. (No. 57)

From the Persian:

O Children of Dust! Tell the rich of the midnight sighing of the poor, lest heedlessness lead them into the path of destruction, and deprive them of the Tree of Wealth. To give and to be generous are attributes of Mine; well is it with him that adornest himself with My virtues. (No. 49)

O Ye Rich Ones on Earth! The poor in your midst are My trust; guard ye My trust, and be not intent only on your own ease. (No. 54)

I would also suggest that the friends read Foundations of World Unity by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, especially the chapter headed "Cooperation."

Charlotte Wellman Clinton Twp., Michigan

To the Editor:

Richard Hollinger wrote (May) about our need, as individuals in a community working toward world unity, to address inequities that are inevitable in the old world order.

He speaks of poor participation by some Bahá’ís due to, among other things, lack of finances or transportation, which results in a lack of opportunity to become fully acquainted with their fellow Bahá’ís.

This, in turn, provides inadequate knowledge of the friends for voting purposes while encouraging the development of "cliques" among some and a sense of isolation among others.

A point I would like to add to Mr. Hollinger's thoughtful suggestions concerns recognition of speakers at Bahá’í activities.

The Bahá’í community is blessed with much excellence in the accomplishments of its members—not all intellectual. It is good that public mention should bring these to the attention of the friends, some of whom may not know the speaker chosen for the occasion.

Care should be taken, however, to avoid the appearance that one is being somehow exalted because of such things. Much service and many worthy attributes may not be as visible, and God alone knows where the individual began and the effort he or she has made.

If one's heart was set aflame by recognition of Bahá’u’lláh in this age, it is the bounty of all other Bahá’ís to love and nourish that individual with patience and humility, always mindful of those things that can create barriers to the growth of others and, in turn, our own.

Publicly overstressing the accomplishments of some of the friends (often to their embarrassment) exceeds the demand, discouraging those who, for whatever reason, have not had the opportunity to participate fully or to serve in more visible ways.

Public acclaim is a form of "dress" society confers on an individual. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá said we Bahá’ís should dress so as to make the poor comfortable and the rich thoughtful.

I would also suggest that there are many deepened Bahá’ís whose sincerity and purity of understanding would be refreshingly inspiring, and ask that communities seek out these dear friends and offer them the bounty of speaking instead of looking always to those who, because of their eloquence, have had great demands placed on their often busy schedules.

Ruth Hampton McLean, Virginia

Questions to ponder

To the Editor:

I suppose the best approach to the questions (disparity of wealth and poverty within the community; racism: alive and well?, etc.) raised by the recent spate of letters to The American Bahá’í is to ask some questions in return.

These need to be framed in such a way as to stimulate discussion and consultation within the community. For example:

1. Might not the negative cash-flow experienced by the Funds and the disparity of wealth and poverty within our ranks be related? Does the fact that the poor in our midst cannot find funds to attend summer schools, conferences, and the like really indicate a larger problem (setting our priorities, perhaps)?

See LETTERS page 31

The Secret of the STOLEN MANDOLIN

BARBARA LARKIN

This exciting tale of exploration and intrigue follows the adventures of three children who answer a mysterious call for help and find themselves on a journey to another world. A lively and entertaining narrative, true-to-life characters, and themes which explore prejudice, personal relationships and the purpose of life give this book enormous appeal for the 10-14 age group.

160 pages paperback $3.75

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

MRS. GEORGIE WILES

Mrs. Georgie Brown Wiles was born September 2, 1899, in Nashville, Tennessee. Her family had always been leaders in the community and had taken an active role in the Methodist Church.

In the summer of 1930, however, when Mrs. Wiles accompanied a niece, Mrs. Evelyn Bivins, to the Bahá’í summer school at Green Acre in Eliot, Maine, she listened intently and came to believe that we were living in a new Age, a new Dispensation. Her stay at Green Acre marked the most momentous period of her life, for it was there that she began to travel the path paved by Bahá’u’lláh.

At her first Bahá’í meeting there she had a most unusual experience, one that made a profound and lasting impression on her mind and heart, for she, a southern white woman, was introduced to the speaker, a black man.

Mrs. Wiles had known black people before, and regarded many of them with fondness and respect, but never before had she come face-to-face with an educated black person.

Of the splendid lesson the speaker was given she heard not much, for she was busy questioning herself about the racial traditions handed down to her.

She said later that she had asked herself in what possible way she could consider herself superior to him, for she could see that he had a well-trained mind, was refined and a gentleman, and probably, she thought, "he is more willing to serve God than I am."

Thoroughly humbled, she tried to make amends for her former attitude, asking permission to drive the speaker home in her car. Along the way, they spoke of the principle of the oneness of mankind.

For the rest of her life, Mrs. Wiles tried as best she could to mend the breach between the races and put that principle into practice.

After returning to Nashville, she began immediately to teach the Cause to everyone she met. She was among the first active Bahá’ís in Nashville, and her name will forever be associated with its Bahá’í history.

It wasn't long, however, before she broadened her horizons.

Arc

and discovery.

It is impossible at this stage to give an accurate estimate of the cost of these projects. All that we can now say is that in the immediate future two objectives have to be met: to accumulate rapidly a reserve of $50 million on which plans for the construction can realistically begin to be implemented, and to provide an income of between $20 million and $25 million for the Bahá’í International Fund for each of the next 10 years. As the work proceeds, contracts are signed and costs can be accurately determined, further information will be announced.

The great work of constructing the terraces, landscaping their surroundings, and erecting the remaining buildings of the Arc will bring into being a vastly augmented World Center structure which will be capable of meeting the challenges of coming centuries and of the tremendous growth of the Bahá’í community which the beloved Guardian has told us to expect.

Already we see the effect of the spiritual energies which the completion of the Seat of the Universal House of Justice has released, and the new impulse this has given to the advancement of the Faith. Who can gauge what transformations will be effected as a result of the completion of each successive stage of this great enterprise? The Faith advances, not at a uniform rate of growth, but in vast surges, precipitated by the alternation of crisis and victory.

In a passage written on July 18, 1953, in the early months of the Ten Year Crusade, Shoghi Effendi, referring to the vital need to ensure through the teaching work a "steady flow" of "fresh recruits to the slowly yet steadily advancing army of the Lord of Hosts," stated that this flow would "presage and hasten the advent of the day which, as prophesied by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, will witness the entry by troops of peoples of divers nations and races into the Bahá’í world."

This day the Bahá’í world has already seen in Africa, the Pacific, in Asia and in Latin America, and this process of entry by troops must, in the present plan, be augmented and spread to other countries for, as the Guardian stated in this same letter, it "will be the prelude to that long-awaited hour when a mass conversion on the part of these same nations and races, and as a direct result of a chain of events, momentous and possibly catastrophic in nature, and which cannot as yet be even dimly visualized, will suddenly revolutionize the fortunes of the Faith, derange the equilibrium of the world, and reinforce a thousandfold the numerical strength as well as the material power and the spiritual authority of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh." This is the time for which we must now prepare ourselves; this is the hour whose coming it is our task to hasten.

At this climacteric of human history, we are called upon to rise up in sacrificial endeavor, our eyes on the awe-inspiring responsibilities which such developments will place upon Bahá’í institutions and individual believers in every land, and our hearts filled with unshakeable confidence in the guiding Hand of the Founder of our Faith. That our Beloved Lord will arouse His followers in every land to a mighty united effort is our ardent prayer at the Sacred Threshold.

With loving Bahá’í greetings,

The Universal House of Justice August 31, 1987

This model of the Arc on Mount Carmel at the Bahá’í World Center in Haifa, Israel, is a partial view showing the International Bahá’í Library (left) and the International Teaching Center.

Labor Day weekend Conference on Growth

Bahá’ís from across the country gathered in the Chicago north shore suburb of Lincolnwood over the Labor Day weekend (September 4-7) for a Conference on Growth sponsored by the National Teaching Committee.

The conference, held only a few miles from the Mother Temple of the West in Wilmette, was convened to address the statement by the Universal House of Justice in its Ridván 1987 message to the Bahá’ís of the world: "The stage is set for universal, rapid and massive growth of the Cause of God....

"The teaching work must be imaginatively, persistently and sacrificially continued, ensuring the enrollment of ever larger numbers who will provide the energy, the resources and spiritual force to enable the beloved Cause to worthily play its part in the redemption of mankind."

Among the nearly 300 Bahá’ís who took part in the conference were members of national committees, District Teaching Committees, Regional School Committees, District and Regional Youth Committees, and regional traveling teacher coordinators.

The feeling soon grew among them that this was no ordinary conference; again and again throughout the weekend, it was predicted that the conference would mark a turning point toward the rapid expansion of the Faith in America.

In his keynote address, Dr. Robert Henderson, secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly, discussed the urgency and the opportunity of the days in which we live and described the astounding impact on the world made by the heroic martyrs in Iran.

The amazing progress of the Faith in the past several years, said Dr. Henderson, is directly related to their sacrifice, and now, thanks to the martyrs, we have unprecedented opportunities for teaching and expansion.

Our greatest challenge in doing this, he said, lies in believing in our role and having that belief become the motivation for transforming our personal lives toward action in teaching.

Special guests at the conference included Counselors Wilma Brady and Robert Harris.

Mr. Harris spoke of the nature of teaching, the art of teaching, and the required condition of the teacher.

"Obedience to the laws of Bahá’u’lláh," he said, "which includes teaching the Faith, does not mean perfection. Obedience only means obedience."

We are asked, said Mr. Harris, only to do our best, and our humble efforts will be magnified.

Dr. Brady stressed commitment to action. "You cannot grow in a vacuum," she said. "You've got to do something."

She added that the only thing that will truly help the Faith is when we, one by one, decide that we will become mirrors "reflecting the light that is in us but not of us"—that is, the Light of Bahá’u’lláh and that we will commit ourselves to action and personal involvement in teaching the Faith.

"His mercy," she said, "will contain our mistakes."

Several members of the National Teaching Committee addressed the conference.

Counselor Wilma Brady addresses the Conference on Growth. Seated is Jaci Delahunt, secretary of the National Teaching Committee.

Gene Andrews, in the opening address, coined the phrase "Fourth Epoch Thinking" to describe the new and fresh ways of thinking we must develop in anticipating more changes and developments than ever before in the process of bringing about universal, rapid and massive growth.

The fourth epoch, a transitional stage in the Formative Age of the Faith, began in 1986 with the introduction of the Six Year Plan.

Other members of the National Teaching Committee who spoke at the conference were Dr. Hoda Mahmoudi, who gave a delightfully informative and spiritually refreshing talk about the profound example of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in individual teaching; John Smith, whose talk on traveling teaching focused on the need for traveling teachers to become as involved in the process of consolidation as in expansion; and Jacqueline Delahunt, who encouraged the use of meditation and open consultation as effective methods for approaching the "most vital and challenging issue" of racial prejudice within the framework of a general session of the conference.

Other speakers were Auxiliary Board member Soo Fouts, who focused on the necessity for balance between expansion and consolidation in teaching; and Gail Etzenhouser, a member of the National Youth Committee, who spoke of new levels of maturity in the Bahá’í community in which not only all races but also youth and adults are working together to help bring about a rapid expansion of the Faith through a unity of vision based on the Writings and the goals of the Six Year Plan. [Page 5]

The National Bahá’í Fund

Advancing the Faith around the World

Four Simple Questions Do you have a will? ⚫ Does it include your entire estate?

• Does it name every person and favorite charity (including the Bahá’í Faith) which you would like to benefit?

• Have you revised your will to meet your changing needs and goals?

Unless you answered "yes" to each of these questions, you should probably review carefully your needs and goals to determine how a will can best help you achieve them. The complimentary booklet offered below can help you. Send for it or phone Yvor E. Stoakley, Fund Development Director, at 312-869-9039.

Clip & Mail To: Yvor E. Stoakley Fund Development Director Office of the Treasurer Bahá’í National Center Wilmette, IL 60091

Please send me a complimentary copy of "A Checklist for Preparing Your Will."

Name Address City, State, Zip Telephone ( )

Visitors to San Mateo Unity picnic greeted by balloon archway

A tri-colored balloon archway greeted visitors to the Unity picnic held in June in San Mateo, California’s, Central Park.

The friends and guests alike also enjoyed strolling musicians and fresh fruit.

A unity tapestry started at the picnic, with 80 squares of art work, will soon be completed and presented to the city council for display at the city hall.

Some of those who attended the picnic have since attended firesides.

Local Bahá’í Fund (ask your local Bahá’í community for the correct address)

National Bahá’í Fund Wilmette, IL 60091

Continental Bahá’í Fund c/o Bahá’í National Center Wilmette, IL 60091

Bahá’í International Fund P.O. Box 155 Haifa, Israel 31-000

Persian Relief Fund c/o Bahá’í National Center Wilmette, IL 60091

Bahá’í Huqúqu’lláh Trust 21300 Avalon Drive Rocky River, OH 44116

A ‘gift’ from heart spreads fragrance, joy among children

The following article, "The Gift," is reprinted from the August issue of the Northern Ohio Bahá’í Newsletter. It was written by Janet Weaver of Lakewood, Ohio.

I was asked by the District Teaching Committee to be a reporter for the Advance. In this capacity, I was asked to send in news and inspire others to write articles to be published in the newsletter.

As a frustrated writer, with neither the confidence nor the talent, I ask for your patience and understanding. In an effort to carry out this most honorable task, I will begin with an article.

Recently, my husband and I had the bounty of traveling to the Holy Land on pilgrimage. I would like to relate the following experience I had on that memorable occasion.

Upon entering the grounds of the mansion of Mazra’ih, we encountered a large group of Arab children crowded around the entrance gate, actively begging in their own language.

We had been advised while on the bus (before our arrival) not to give them any handouts and to walk past them, ignoring them as much as possible. It was explained that this would discourage the begging.

On the way into the mansion I did as I was told. I walked past them. But I could not stop myself from searching their eyes.

I wondered how they felt, what their lives were like, and why they were so attracted to the mansion. I wondered if they, too, felt the power of Bahá’u’lláh in that hallowed spot.

I walked into the mansion but my heart was looking back at those children.

After a beautiful visit and lunch at Mazra’ih, we returned to the buses. Again, the children gathered around with outstretched hands, speaking in their own tongue. I remembered our instructions and again tried to pass them by.

I couldn’t do it! I stopped with my back toward them and asked myself, "What would ‘Abdu’l-Bahá do?"

I continued toward the bus, thinking, "He would obey the instructions." I boarded the bus, but I could bear it no longer!

I told myself that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá would not ignore the children completely. Although He would not want to encourage begging at the gates of Mazra’ih, He would most definitely love those children with all His heart.

Quickly, I searched my purse for something, anything, and found a bottle of perfume. I ran out of the bus and straight to the children.

As they all began to beg again, I held up the bottle of perfume. One of them stepped forward to take it. Gently, I held her hand and sprayed her wrist.

She looked at me strangely and, seemingly out of fear, backed away. I sprayed my own wrist, smelled it, and smiled. She smelled her wrist and laughed.

Other children then grabbed her

"Help me to guard the pearls of Thy love which, by Thy decree, Thou hast enshrined within my heart. Send down, moreover, every moment of my life, O my God, that which will preserve me from any one but Thee, and will set my feet firm in Thy Cause." -Bahá’u’lláh, Prayers and Meditations, CV, pp. 176-77

Fayard Nicholas (second from left) and his wife, Barbara, Bahá’ís from Woodland Hills, California, are pictured during a visit this summer to the Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois. Mr. Nicholas, who appeared with his brother, Harold, in some 40 Hollywood musicals as the tap-dancing Nicholas Brothers, was honored at a Chicago film festival which paid tribute to the contributions of blacks in motion pictures. With Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas are Ken Jeffers (right), administrator of the House of Worship, and Jim Gilleran, a Bahá’í from Chicago.

Sectional science, techonology meeting to complement Association conference

A new sectional conference on Science and Technology will be held October 22 as a part of the 12th annual Conference of the Association for Bahá’í Studies in Princeton, New Jersey.

The sectional meeting is designed to complement the main conference whose theme is "Converging Realities: An International Conference on Science, the Humanities, and Religion."

Speakers at the sectional conference and their topics will include: Dr. William Hatcher, Université Laval, "Science, Myth and Reality." Dr. Michel Duguay, Université Laval, "New Age Physics." Dr. Azar Majidi, University of Delaware, "Matters that Matter." • Dr. Ishrat Naqvi, University of Regina, "The Use of Logic in Religion." Dr. Gilbert Bartholomew, Atomic Energy Commission of Canada, "Complementarity in Science and Religion." Dr. Brian Aull, MIT Lincoln Laboratory, "Faith in Science and Method in Religion."

The Science and Technology Seminar of the Association for Bahá’í Studies has, as its fundamental concern and central focus, the relationship between science and technology, on the one hand, and the teachings of the Bahá’í Faith on the other.

Where was the first Local Spiritual Assembly in America? Find out in The Bahá’í Faith in America: Origins, 1892-1900

Your Treasurer’s Office serves you!

Do you have any questions or ideas about Fund promotion, the Automatic Contribution System, local Assembly public liability insurance, Fund development, estate planning, wills, the National, International or Continental Funds, the Persian Relief Fund, contributions, accounting procedures, gifts of securities or real estate, taxes or tax exemption?

Please call on us: Office of the Treasurer Bahá’í National Center Wilmette, IL 60091 Phone 312/869-9039 [Page 6]

Traveling teacher’s prayers are answered in Guatemala

PIONEERING

This account of a teaching trip to the Petén area of Guatemala in April 1987 was written by Andrew DiMauro, a Bahá’í pioneer from the U.S. to El Salvador.

According to information we received, little follow-up work had been seen in the Petén area for the past two years. This may have prompted a telegram from the Hand of the Cause of God Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum concerning the necessity of visiting the area.

As a pioneer to El Salvador for the past two years, I offered my services to the National Spiritual Assembly of Guatemala, an offer that was graciously accepted. The trip was planned during the Riḍván period especially for the purpose of electing at least one of the Assemblies in the area. David Robinson, a Bahá’í from the U.S., and his son Jesse accompanied me. What follows is a report of that trip with recommendations for future follow-up.

My memory is engraved with what shall ever be a precious experience. Let it be placed on record that the Petén is an area of enormous spiritual potential; a great harvest seems to be waiting only for the appropriate plans of action.

In five days we were able only to evaluate the surface and open some doors which should lead in the near future to entry by troops. The spiritual receptivity of these people, who are direct descendants of the Mayas, builders of the most advanced pre-Colombian civilization in the Americas, is staggering. They are waiting with great hunger for the Message of God.

The memory of the former glory of what appears to have been a great spiritual as well as material civilization has not faded from their minds. Some of the ancient knowledge and prophecies have been handed down to the present generation. They wait now for an opportunity to rise again and illuminate all regions, as the Master stated. For this, proper education is needed, and the need to step into the field of action is crucial. One must ponder deeply on the high level of civilization once reached by these people to appreciate the role they can play in the development of the Bahá’í World Commonwealth.

The journey began Thursday, April 23. I took a bus from El Salvador to Guatemala in the afternoon, arriving that evening. After spending the night at the home of the National Spiritual Assembly's secretary, David, Jesse and I left on a 7 a.m. flight Friday for Flores. I had brought some extra money with which to visit the ruins at Tikal to pray and feel inspiration. Little did I suspect that undreamed-of opportunities would begin to open up as a result of what seemingly was a deviation from our intended route.

Tikal is an extraordinary sight to behold, even in ruins. Its ancient "skyscrapers" tower above the jungle floor, giving one an impression of beauty, majesty and grace. The city, which contains more than 3,000 structures, was built on a platform 30 feet above the jungle floor. We headed on foot for the main plaza, which has been restored. The temples lifted our hearts to prayer and reverence.

In my prayers, I asked that the doors be opened and the souls that we needed to contact be found. I did not know that the answer to those prayers would be so close at hand.

Toward the end of the day I began to feel anxious about doing some actual teaching. Near the Jungle Lodge are a couple of places where one can obtain food and drink. I went to one and ordered mineral water, thirsting more than anything for contact with the Guatemaltecos. Not having any success, I began walking back toward the bungalow when suddenly a strong desire to visit the ruins again, this time by starlight, came over me. Seeing a man walking in that direction with a flashlight, I decided to ask if I might accompany him. As it turned out, he was one of the caretakers, and his name was Augusto Heredia. He looked to be about my age (32 years) and seemed a very agreeable person.

As we walked the old Maya road that winds through the jungle, we began to talk. At first we spoke of the new age and the needs of the times. I quickly realized what a great spiritual capacity this man had, and wondered how a man of such humble origins could have been the recipient of so much profound wisdom and knowledge. The form of the Jaguar Temple was becoming visible under the dim light of the stars when he began to disclose his secret to me.

We climbed a steep incline to the top of the pyramid where the temple rises above the jungle ceiling, then sat entranced by the pure magic of the precious moments we were experiencing. Augusto told me about the history of the city and of Chak Mul, the representative of the Godhead among the Mayas, chief spiritual leader of his race and the one who originated the laws and design of Tikal. I had read that when the Spaniards came and tried to destroy all remnants of the old faith, certain priests had hidden some of the old books or codices. The secrets of the faith were then passed down from generation to generation to the present one. Augusto had been given one of the books by his grandfather, who was 115 years old. He was waiting with this great treasure of spiritual and cultural heritage and had recently decided that the time had come to bring it forward.

I told him the story of Bahá’u’lláh Who had come to inaugurate the new Day and bring about the revival of all good things. This pure soul accepted the Message immediately and without question, and began to make plans about how to carry it to his people. He began teaching the Faith the next morning, and had two interested seekers for us to speak to that day. He told me of his desire to donate land for a Bahá’í Center in his home town. There, he said, hundreds of souls are waiting to hear the Bahá’í Message, and he was sure there would be success in enlisting many of them in the Cause of God.

The doors were thus flung open in a way I had never imagined. Considering our limited time and resources, I was struck with a sense of helplessness to deal with the enormity of the task. All I could do was promise that we would return with a team in August and December to continue the work. I would strongly suggest that someone begin to correspond with and send materials to Augusto so that the opportunities that now exist are not lost.

Before we left, he promised to introduce us to a couple of seekers to whom he had already passed the information. Therefore, making plans to return in two days, we set out the following morning for Melchor.

Melchor seemed the most likely area for Assembly formation in the Petén. There had once been an Assembly there, but things had lapsed over the past two years. Our mission was to reactivate the Bahá’ís on our list and, if possible, help elect the Assembly. After a tedious four-hour journey, we arrived in Melchor in mid-afternoon.

Shortly after checking in at a hotel, we found the home of the key Bahá’ís. When we arrived there we found the husband seated on the doorstep talking to a friend. After we introduced ourselves, his friend became interested in the teachings and what we were there for. His questions were answered, and he expressed his desire to become a member of the Bahá’í community. This was but one example of the spiritual receptivity that seems to permeate the atmosphere in this region.

With the help of the Bahá’ís we were able to check the list and verify the number of the friends in the community (14). That night the Assembly was elected, and we left Melchor with mixed feelings. On the one hand was a feeling of joy that at least one center of light and attraction was now in existence in the Petén area; on the other was the feeling of helplessness to meet the enormous needs that activating the Cause would require in this region. Again, we promised a return trip. I am convinced that the area near Melchor would be a good starting point for reactivating the friends in the Petén.

Our return trip included another visit to Tikal to meet some seekers to whom Augusto had spoken. I was able to speak to one person who later became a Bahá’í. On Tuesday evening I arrived in Guatemala City, where a verbal report was given to the secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly.

I have offered my services to help organize a team to return to the Petén in August or December for follow-up work and further expansion. All the doors there are opened and the opportunities that exist must be taken advantage of. Some Salvadorans have expressed an interest in the next stage of the process, and the National Assembly of Belize could also become involved due to its proximity to the area. Also, some North Americans have expressed a strong desire to become a part of the effort.

May the Army of Light march on to conquer this blessed region, the Petén.

-Andrew DiMauro

International Bahá’í Peace Conference to be held in Botswana

The National Spiritual Assembly of Botswana has chosen the village of Kasane, on the shores of the Chobe River in the northernmost corner of the country, as the site for an International Bahá’í Peace Conference to be held August 28-September 4, 1988. To plan the conference, the National Assembly met with several national committees and traveling teachers in Kasane, an event made possible by the use of an airplane and the services of Don Todd, a pioneer from Canada and professional pilot who is the founder of the New Era Aviation Fellowship.

New name is Office of Pioneering; service to friends remains same

Dear Friends,

With the establishment of the Six Year Plan, many new tasks have been accomplished. Not the least of these has been the participation of each National Spiritual Assembly in the development of its Plan.

As a part of this special responsibility, our National Spiritual Assembly has given the International Goals Committee office a new name. We are now the Office of Pioneering. We pray that we may continue to serve you, our national community, to the best of our ability as you prepare to serve our beloved Cause as overseas or homefront pioneers, international traveling teachers, and participants in the international Year of Service program.

With loving greetings,

Yael Wurmfeld, Manager Sara Algots, Traveling Teacher Consultant Gwili Posey, Pioneering Consultant Susan Senchuk, Administrative Assistant Rosa Rocha, Administrative Assistant

Pioneers needed in large cities as well as in smaller rural areas

Pioneer Post, published by the Office of Pioneering, is a vehicle for us to share with the pioneers and other subscribers the insights and thoughts of our pioneers regarding all aspects of their lives as they strive to serve our beloved Cause. In the June issue, we shared the following observations of Roger and Diana Carson, pioneers to Guatemala.

"Some observations on pioneering: The diversity and effectiveness of pioneers seem to depend much more on their attitude than their location. Pioneers in isolated outposts are held in high regard, while those who live in the cities and capitals are seen as being not quite as vital somehow.

"I think this is a social misconception among some Bahá’ís. As I look around, I see a real need for dedicated pioneers in the capitals and large cities, training native-born Bahá’ís to run the national centers and administer urban communities, to replace themselves on committees and institutions; providing transportation to widely scattered believers who could not otherwise get together....

"We should really be grateful for these souls whose work keeps them out in the field of international service. One young pioneer (in our area) spoke little Spanish, taught few people, suffered great personal loss and sacrifice. He left his post before he had completed his two-year commitment.

"Today, if one visits the beautiful 'Shiraz' National Bahá’í Institute in Guatemala, he would find something permanent that will attract new souls and nurture the believers for epochs to come. This Institute is the result of that pioneer's labors and, of course, the help of others.

"When I go there, I sense the sweetness of his love for Bahá’u’lláh and the sacrifices of his service.

"Besides the act of leaving one's homeland, it is the quality of love and sacrifice which designates one a pioneer, not the location or even length of service, nor the prestige of one's position...."

We in the Office of Pioneering feel that the Carsons have expressed in their own way the assurances that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá gave us. [Page 7]

CAMPUS CLIPS

This year the National Youth Committee didn't ask college clubs to submit campus plan worksheets telling us your plans for the year.

Let's be honest, we're in the dark here! We really don't know what's going on unless you tell us. We're counting on you to let us know what you're doing and planning so we can let the other Bahá’í clubs know and help you out if necessary. So drop us a line or give us a call; we're dying to hear what's going on out there in the real world.

Hey! If you haven't turned in your officers' report form, we don't know if you exist! Please fill one out and send it to the Youth Committee. If we don't get it, you may be taken off the list of active college clubs. If you never received an officers' report form for 1987-88, then we really, really don't know you exist! If you suspect that's true, write or call; it will be a pleasant surprise!

Don't forget the foreign students on your campus. They are the future leaders of their countries. Many will return home to important positions in business, civil service or government. What better way for the healing Message of Bahá’u’lláh to "reach the generality of mankind" than for us to send it to other countries with their best and brightest? Work on ways in which your club can cooperate with foreign student organizations, or ways your club can be of special service to the foreign students at your school.

spending long periods traveling throughout the South, stopping in various places, especially Florida, where she spent much time teaching and serving the Faith in every way possible.

When Mrs. Wiles heard of the newly organized Bahá’í school at the Louhelen Ranch in Michigan, she was overjoyed, and set out with her son, Joseph, to visit the school. They were among the first guests at its opening session, and attended every summer thereafter until Mrs. Wiles' death in 1939. The nine years of her Bahá’í life were years of bountiful service. Mrs. Wiles was devoted to the Faith, and spent all of her time and energy promoting the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh.

Now hear this!

Yes! There will be a Youth Conference in Florida this December. See next month's issue of The American Bahá’í for details.

Bloomington to host 'triple conference' in 1988

Bahá’ís from around the world will gather June 30-July 4, 1988, in Bloomington, Indiana, for the Bahá’í International Youth Conference.

It will be a unique experience not only for the youth, but also for parents, children and friends of the Faith. It will be a "triple conference" with unity in spirit and thought.

Now that we have entered the fourth epoch of the Formative Age of the Faith and are showing signs of a higher level of maturity, it is time to experience a meaningful conference with a greater measure of dedication to the Cause, awareness of our role, and absolute faith in Bahá’u’lláh’s assurance of world peace.

Now is the time for spiritual development so that we are fully prepared for the challenges to come.

We are all striving for universal peace, and the first step toward this is unity of thought and unity of vision based on the Writings of the Faith. That is why conferences are so important.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá said, "There is not one soul whose conscience does not testify that in this day there is no more important matter in the world than that of universal peace....

"But the wise souls who are aware of the essential relationships emanating from the realities of things consider that one single matter cannot, by itself, influence the human reality as it ought and should, for until the minds of men become united, no important matter can be accomplished.

"At present universal peace is a matter of great importance, but unity of conscience is essential, so that the foundation of this matter may become secure, its establishment firm and its edifice strong."

All youth, adults and children, be prepared for this exciting conference. Send your ideas and comments concerning the IYC and any service and teaching projects you want organized to the National Youth Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

Get ready for summer projects. "Know ye the value of this time. Strive ye with all your hearts, raise up your voices and shout, until this dark world be filled with light...." — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Gilbert Smith returns to pioneering post in Virgin Islands

Gilbert Smith, former chairman of the Bahá’í National Youth Committee, recently returned to his pioneering post in St. Croix, Virgin Islands.

He had spent nine years as a pioneer in St. Croix with his family after embracing the Faith in Toledo, Ohio.

While in St. Croix, Mr. Smith served on the Island Teaching Committee and as chairman of the National Youth Committee. He was also a traveling teacher to several Caribbean islands including Puerto Rico and Montserrat.

After graduating as valedictorian of his high school class, Mr. Smith returned to the U.S. to further his education, accepting a Minority Engineering Scholarship at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville.

While at UT he became active with the Bahá’í College Club, serving as its secretary and then president. He also worked with the Freshman Aid Coordinating Team to help new students adjust to college life, and with the Society of Black Engineers to help recruit and retain minority students in engineering.

Mr. Smith served as vice-president and president of UT's Black Engineers chapter and worked with high school and junior high school students to encourage them to pursue a higher education, particularly in engineering and other technical fields.

To further his professional development, he interned with Monsanto, Kingsport Press, and United Press International.

He was able to combine professional development and service to the Faith by spending a summer as Adult Program Director at the Louhelen Bahá’í School and another summer as a management intern with the National Teaching Committee.

During his college years, Mr. Smith also served as secretary of the first Eastern Tennessee District Youth Committee, as treasurer of the Eastern Tennessee District Teaching Committee, as chairman of the Bahá’í National Youth Committee, assistant to Auxiliary Board member Albert James, chairman of the Spiritual Assembly of Knoxville, and as a member of the management team for the International Bahá’í Youth Conference held in 1985 in Columbus, Ohio.

He also traveled throughout the U.S. for teaching activities and service projects and gave many musical presentations using the "rap" medium to communicate Bahá’í ideals to young people.

After graduating from UT with a degree in industrial engineering, Mr. Smith accepted employment with Fairleigh Dickinson University where he works in the National Undersea Research Program, helping in the completion of an undersea habitat that will be used for scientific research after its deployment this month.

After extensive training and orientation designed to provide a thorough working knowledge of the operational systems aboard the habitat and to prepare him for all phases of mission support, Mr. Smith will assume additional technical and administrative responsibilities as planning and control engineer.

Among his duties will be coordination of logistics involved in making the habitat mobile for research throughout the Caribbean.

Mr. Smith says he looks forward to the challenges such a task will present, and hopes that the program can serve as a catalyst for greater understanding and cooperation between the U.S. and all Caribbean nations served by the habitat.

He encourages young people everywhere to pursue their dreams and plan their lives in service to the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh with the assurance that they will be guided to many opportunities to teach the Faith and serve mankind.

In August, Erika Haendel, a 13-year-old Bahá’í from Boulder County, Colorado, placed third in the Wilder Dwight Aspen bicycle race. In the Red Zinger Mini-Classic race, 10 days of racing in Denver, Boulder and Vail, Erika's team placed second. Her ambition is large: she plans to continue racing in the hope of one day competing in the Tour de France.

'Everyone shares love' in East Texas' Yellow Rose teaching-deepening effort

"Everyone shares the love at the Yellow Rose." These were the words of a Bahá’í youth from Pasadena, Texas, one of 60 believers who took part in this summer teaching campaign.

Yellow Rose is a unique service-teaching-and-deepening project developed by the District Teaching Committee of East Texas No. 2; but Yellow Rose is also a love story—the love that the Bahá’ís feel for the people they are reaching out to, the Alabama-Coushatta Indian tribes, and the warm response they receive in return.

Over a three-week span the friends carried out a number of service projects that included working in the tribal offices, general clean-up of the camp grounds, and minor repair work on a cabin.

Many of the residents remembered the Bahá’ís from the previous summer and the Health Care Fairs. The conduct of the youth again served as a magnet to draw the people to them.

The younger Bahá’ís played basketball and watched baseball games on the Reservation, and See YELLOW ROSE page 26

Youth and the Fund

Youth Participation in the Bahá’í Fund Month of Kamál

200 150 95! 100 50

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13-19 Bahá’í Months

1. of youth contributors

Youth Committee for 1987-88 named

The National Spiritual Assembly has appointed the National Youth Committee for 1987-88. The new members are:

Linda Ahdieh, St. Davids, Pennsylvania; Jenni Brannan, Oceanside, California; Carolyn Das, Deerfield, Illinois; Gail Etzenhouser, Lawrence, Kansas; Roberta Maull, Evanston, Illinois; and Phillip White, Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

The appointments were accompanied by the resignation of the Youth Committee's former chairman, Gilbert Smith, who has accepted a pioneering post in St. Croix, Virgin Islands. His dedicated service to the Bahá’í youth in this country will be greatly missed. [Page 8]

‘Abdu’l-Bahá pays loving tribute to Thornton Chase

When ‘Abdu’l-Bahá arrived in Los Angeles on October 18, 1912, many individuals and organizations sought to arrange speaking engagements with Him.

The Master declined all invitations to address churches or societies. He intended to remain in the Los Angeles area for a short time, having come specifically to visit the grave of Thornton Chase, who ‘Abdu’l-Bahá referred to as "the first American believer."

Mr. Chase died on September 30 of that year, while ‘Abdu’l-Bahá was en route to California.

The next afternoon, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, accompanied by about 25 Bahá’ís from Los Angeles, arrived at the cemetery in Inglewood. He went directly to the gravesite without asking its location.

Once there, He arranged flowers on the grave, chanted the Tablet of Visitation and a prayer for Mr. Chase, then spoke briefly of the sacrifices and services of the man whom He had once described as being "unique and peerless"; the man whom He had given the name Thabit, meaning "steadfast." At the close of His visit, the Master knelt and kissed Mr. Chase’s gravestone.

Shoghi Effendi wrote in God Passes By that the moving ceremony marking ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s pilgrimage to the resting-place of Thornton Chase ranked among the seven most outstanding functions of His visit to North America.

The fact that the Guardian used the word "pilgrimage" to describe the Master’s visit to the gravesite hints at the lofty station of Thornton Chase, for, as stated in Webster’s New Collegiate Dictionary, the word means "the journey of a pilgrim; especially: to a shrine or sacred place."

The love and reverence shown for Mr. Chase by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá during His visit was apparent, but the true station of the man He honored was not.

Mirza Ahmad Sohrab, who was present at the gravesite while ‘Abdu’l-Bahá spoke of Thornton Chase, quoted the Master as saying, "For the present his worth is not known, but in the future it will be inestimably dear."

Perhaps even now we could not adequately estimate the incredible effect that this remarkable believer must have had on the growth and development of the Faith in America; therefore, we will not attempt to analyze the significance of his actions and accomplishments as we briefly describe them here:

Thornton Chase was living in Chicago when he heard of the Faith and became a Bahá’í in 1894, one year after the name "Bahá’u’lláh" had first been mentioned in America.

His executive position with a large insurance company required that he travel from city to city as a part of his work. Wherever he went, Mr. Chase spoke of Bahá’u’lláh, and when those who were interested joined the Faith he was able to return to deepen them.

Mr. Chase was responsible for the establishment of the Bahá’í Publishing Society. He was concerned that there was not enough written material about the Faith, and also because that which was available was often poorly printed on paper of inferior quality.

He insisted that the Holy Utterances be presented in the best possible manner and demanded accuracy and adequate expression of Persian translations.

At the turn of the century, the American Bahá’í community suffered the turmoil of divisive influences. Ibrahim Khayru’llah, who had been teaching the Faith in the U.S. and who had, in fact, taught Thornton Chase, renounced his allegiance to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, claiming that the Master had distorted Bahá’u’lláh’s teachings.

Many supported Mr. Khayru’llah’s claim, while others, agitated and confused, turned away from the Faith—but Thornton Chase remained firm in the Covenant and was a source of strength and encouragement to those who remained loyal.

As Bruce Whitmore pointed out in his book, The Dawning Place, it is probable that, even though the earliest membership roster listed Mr. Chase as the fourth person to have become a Bahá’í in the U.S., ‘Abdu’l-Bahá designated him the first American believer because he was the only one of the four who remained steadfast in the Cause.

Mr. Chase played a pivotal role in the establishment in 1901 of Chicago’s "House of Justice" which, after undergoing many changes over a span of about 20 years through the guidance of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and Shoghi Effendi, became the local Spiritual Assembly.

While many of the early American Bahá’ís could not understand why such an institution was necessary, or were opposed to the idea of "organized religion," Thornton Chase had a remarkably clear understanding of the need for an Administrative Order and stood ready to support it in any way he could.

In 1907, Mr. Chase traveled to the Holy Land with a small group of Bahá’ís and visited ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in His prison house. He later described his pilgrimage in a book called In Galilee, which is one of the many publications he wrote on the Bahá’í Faith.

Mr. Chase’s book The Bahá’í Revelation clearly explained many facets of the Cause at a time when translations of the Bahá’í Holy Writings and reliable works on the Faith were scarce.

Shortly after his pilgrimage to Haifa, Mr. Chase was transferred by his company to California. According to the Hand of the Cause of God H.M. Balyuzi, this was done in the hope that he would spend more time working for the company and less for the Faith. But since he was still required to travel, the action served only to broaden his opportunities to spread the Message of Bahá’u’lláh.

When Thornton Chase died in Los Angeles on September 30, 1912, the train that carried ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to the West Coast was only 24 hours from the California border.

Even ‘small talk’ has larger purpose

As Bahá’ís, we are called upon to reflect the Bahá’í principles to the best of our ability in all aspects of our daily lives. When we do this, we are teaching the Faith by our example.

One of the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh is that we should refrain from idle talk. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Who made the Bahá’í Teachings manifest as the perfect Exemplar, showed that even the most simple conversation could lead to a more meaningful discussion.

Thornton Chase, in his book In Galilee, described how He accomplished this:

"Each conversation started with some simple reference to a natural thing, the weather, food, a stone, tree, water, the prison, a garden or a bird, our coming, or some little act of service, and this base would be woven into a parable and teaching of wisdom and simplicity, showing the oneness of all Spiritual Truth, and adapting it always to the life, both of the individual and of mankind. All of His words are directed toward helping men to live. Unless questions of metaphysics, dogmas and doctrines be introduced, He seldom mentions them. He speaks easily, clearly, in brief phrases, each of which is a gem."

Most of us are presented with opportunities to teach the Bahá’í principles in this manner every day. Although at first it may take a conscious effort to lead the course of our conversation away from small talk and gossip, it could soon become a natural, integral pattern in our "living the life" as Bahá’ís.

Commemorative Print of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Visit to America

In tribute to the 75th Anniversary of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá's visit to America, a limited edition of 2000 18"x24" commemorative prints have been made. Captured in this photograph is a vase of flowers on a table in "‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s room" at the Wilhelm house, Teaneck, New Jersey. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá stayed in the Wilhelm house in 1912 and at that time gave His Souvenir picnic unity feast in the grove behind the house.

This commemorative print captures the spirit of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s nine months in North America. The photograph was taken in ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s room at the Wilhelm house in Teaneck, New Jersey, where the Master held the first Souvenir picnic unity feast for the friends in 1912. The gallery print was taken by internationally recognized photographer Mark Sadan. It is available in a numbered limited edition of 2,000. The print is a lasting souvenir of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s journey to America and of our efforts to carry on His work for the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh during the 75th anniversary of His visit.

October 1912 Chronology

• **October 7:** Addressed the Japanese YMCA at a meeting arranged by Mr. Yamamoto in the Japanese Independent Church.
• **October 8:** Spoke at a high school in Berkeley.
• **October 9:** Addressed an Open Forum.
• **October 10:** Visitors and public meetings continued.
• **October 11:** In the afternoon, visited Golden Gate Park. Spoke at the Theosophical Society.
• **October 12:** Presented memorable address to 2,000 in Temple Emmanu-El. Emphasized "the truth of His Holiness Christ, the reality of Islam, the oneness of humanity and universal peace."
• **October 13:** Spoke at the reading room for the blind. In the morning addressed the First Unitarian Church and in the evening the First Congregational Church of Oakland.
• **October 14:** Went with the Persian friends to the Phoebe Hearst estate at her invitation. Remained there two nights. Discussed a number of important ideas.
• **October 15:** In a conversation, spoke of the qualities a President of the U.S. should have. Toured the gardens with Persian friends.
• **October 16:** Returned to San Francisco, spoke at the Century Club concerning the rights of women. Attended the 19 Day Feast at the home of Mrs. Goodall in Oakland (125 were present). Anointed each guest with attar of roses and served them Himself.
• **October 17:** Returned to San Francisco early and received visitors all day.
• **October 18:** Friends from Seattle and Portland came. When they asked Him to visit Washington and Oregon, He replied, "...tell them that I am always with them." Later, boarded a train to Los Angeles.
• **October 19:** Visited the tomb of Thornton Chase. Chanted the Tablet of Visitation of the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh and a prayer for the dead. Spoke briefly of the self-sacrifice and services of Mr. Chase. When He kissed the grave, tears came to the eyes of on-lookers.
• **October 20:** Interviews and visitors.
• **October 21:** Was greeted in San Francisco by Mr. and Mrs. Ralston, Mrs. Helen Goodall, Mrs. Ella Cooper and other friends. Interviewed by reporters. Gave the children of Kanichi Yamamoto, the first Japanese Bahá’ís, Persian names. Visited by David Starr Jordan, President of Leland Stanford Junior University and the Mayor of Berkeley, who asked Him questions concerning economics.
• **October 22:** Spoke at Leland Stanford Junior University in Palo Alto and had lunch with President Jordan in his home afterward. That evening, spoke at the Unitarian Church. There were large headlines in the Palo Alto newspaper.
• **October 23:** Saw visitors and held public meetings. Spoke about spiritual growth, teaching the Cause, and sowing the seeds.
• **October 24:** Discussed general Teachings with people sitting around Him.
• **October 25:** Arrived in Sacramento at noon. Held a public meeting that evening. The response was so great that another meeting was arranged for the next day.
• **October 26:** Held a second public meeting. Left for Denver by train.
• **October 27:** Conversed throughout the day. When asked what His purpose for traveling in America was, He replied: "I have come to America to raise the standard of universal peace and to bring unity among mankind...." Left Los Angeles in the evening.
• **October 28:** Arrived in San Francisco. Prepared for the journey back across the country. Revealed some Tablets. Bought a gift for children riding the train. The parents saw His kindness and asked questions. He taught them about Bahá’u’lláh. The train reached Denver at midnight.
• **October 29:** Friends and reporters thronged His hotel. Spoke at a home and the Church of the Messiah. Caught the train that evening.
• **October 30:** Wrote an account of His travels in America.
• **October 31:** Arrived in Chicago. Checked into the Plaza Hotel. Many Bahá’ís visited. Spoke to a large public gathering in the hotel.

[Page 9]Some scenes from an extraordinary week at the Bosch Bahá’í School near Santa Cruz, California. Top left: The fry bread sizzles as guests prepare for a bountiful supper. Bottom left: An outdoor class on ‘Global Transformation’ conducted by Judges Dorothy and James Nelson of the National Spiritual Assembly (seated at right). Above: Some of the 27 Native Americans who drove to the school from Arizona enjoy dancing by Robert Imagire (right), a Japanese-American who performed dances of many lands with another Bahá’í, Chinese-American Viola Tang. (Photos by Ted Cardell)

Native Americans make Bosch week special

Visualize a cool evening by a campfire with iron pans sizzling with fry bread propped over the flames, and a circle of bright-eyed people of all ages talking and eating.

After a while two people stand, link arms and begin to dance to the steady, compelling beat of a drum and the sound of chanting. Soon others join them and follow the first dancers, moving, two-by-two, in a widening circle—dancing to the beat of the drum and kicking up puffs of dust with their feet.

A light breeze stirs and stars blink and twinkle overhead. Where do you suppose we are? On the Navajo Reservation?

No, we’re at the Bosch Bahá’í School in northern California for Week No. 8, August 8-13.

This was an extraordinary session highlighted by many cultural events such as this one when 27 Native American believers came to the school from Arizona to attend classes on “Global Transformation: Necessity for Application of the Covenant” presented by James and Dorothy Nelson, and a class given by Guity Kiani, “Crossing Cultural Bridges: Appreciating Differences.”

One of the goals of the summer schools is to increase the attendance of people of cultural and racial diversity so that Bahá’ís can become more intimately acquainted with one another and begin to appreciate more fully through direct experience our wonderfully distinct cultural heritage.

That hope became a reality during Week No. 8 at Bosch. Among the 150 or so attendees were those of Persian, Japanese, Chinese, African and Navajo background.

Everyone had the opportunity to share personal stories and unique customs. It was a thrill to hear from the large number of Navajo Bahá’ís stories of the traditional Indian beliefs and prophecies, how each of them had become a Bahá’í, and what was happening at the Native American Bahá’í Institute and the new Center at Fort Defiance.

Another highlight was a performance one evening by two Bahá’í dancers, of Japanese and Chinese descent. As if by magic, they changed quickly into colorful costumes from various countries to offer traditional music and dances from China, Hawaii, South America, Spain and Hungary.

Everyone agreed that this was one of the special and unique weeks of the summer.

Not only were the classes of the highest quality, but it was also a week in which everyone had a chance to broaden his or her understanding of many cultures as well as experience the love we have to share when given a chance to learn about one another and to appreciate our differences. —Jeremy M. Phillips

Through ‘Brilliant Star Connection’

Growth, development are high priority items

EDUCATION

It seems appropriate that a magazine for children would be most interested in the topic of growth and development—and Brilliant Star is!

In light of the goals of the Six Year Plan, Brilliant Star is trying to provide materials and illustrations in the magazine that reflect cultural and racial diversity. One way we have been working on this is through the “Brilliant Star Connection.”

During its first year, the Connection hooked up 75 families who needed subscriptions but couldn’t afford them with 75 donors.

We see the Brilliant Star Connection as an elementary kind of socio-economic development project. We are constantly accepting new donations and new recipients.

If you would like to donate subscriptions to the magazine or know of someone who can’t afford one and would benefit from the magazine, send your donation or information to the address below.

Another way in which we are trying to reflect cultural and racial diversity is by soliciting writers and artists of various ethnic backgrounds. This is often more difficult than we would like.

We welcome new contributors. Brilliant Star is listed in a number of writers’ market books, and we are seeing an increase in the number of items submitted by those who are not Bahá’ís. Look for our ads in the classifieds section of The American Bahá’í.

We continue to call on Auxiliary Board members for their support and ideas to develop clear lines of communication with our sponsoring committee.

When possible, we try to include special projects in the pages of Brilliant Star to help focus the attention of the children on events and activities of national or international scope.

Most recently, for example, we have printed stories and articles about the Temple in India, the “Spirit of the Roses,” and the Souvenir picnic.

We see Brilliant Star as a means for directly tackling the development goal of increasing materials for the education of children and adults in the history and teachings of the Faith and the application of spiritual principles to one’s life.

Finally, in the area of integration, Brilliant Star continues to strive to help in the development of the child’s awareness of the oneness of humanity, which we list as the first of the goals of the magazine.

With the continued support and encouragement of the National Spiritual Assembly and its committees, and the responsiveness of the American Bahá’í community to the needs of our children, we look to the next five years with a sense of hope and excitement that this periodical can become widely recognized for its high quality and its commitment to addressing the needs of Bahá’í children.

You can help by subscribing: $12 for one year (six issues). Write to Brilliant Star, c/o Subscriber Service, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

13-year-old takes initiative, teaches adult while guiding at House of Worship

Gayle Woolson, a Bahá’í from Evanston, Illinois, and a Knight of Bahá’u’lláh, has recognized the vast potential in children as Bahá’í teachers, and has trained a number of children to become excellent speakers.

In concurring with Mrs. Woolson’s high opinion of the inherent qualities of children, we will let an example speak for itself in the form of 13-year-old Jian Khodadad of Winnetka, one of her former students.

While guiding at the House of Worship during his summer vacation this year, Jian competently and effectively taught the Faith to an adult seeker.

One day, after the slide program which is regularly shown to visitors at the House of Worship was over, Jian went to the front of the room—as guides are encouraged to do—and offered to answer any questions.

One woman asked quite a few. Long after the other visitors had left, Jian continued to talk with this seeker in the visitor’s center.

Because she had taken a few weeks off from work, the woman began to visit the House of Worship almost every day. Each day, Jian discussed the Faith with her in detail and gave her books to read.

He took the initiative to give her reading assignments and quizzed her on what she had read the previous day. It was not long after she had attended her first fireside that Jian felt she was ready to become a Bahá’í, and encouraged her to do so.

On her first day as a Bahá’í she guided at the House of Worship. According to its administrator, who says the new believer has been guiding regularly ever since, she is an excellent guide.

“The Sacred Literature of the Bahá’í Faith conveys enlightenment. It inspires life. It frees the mind. It disciplines the heart. For believers, the Word is not a philosophy to be learned, but the sustenance of being throughout the span of mortal existence.” —Horace Holley Religion for Mankind, p. 64

Gift

from page 5

hand to smell. There was a ruckus among them—laughter, foreign speech and smiles!

Another child approached me with an outstretched wrist. I put some perfume on it, carefully rubbed her wrists together, and then cautiously rubbed her wrists on her neck. She ran back into the crowd, jumping and laughing.

From that moment on, all I saw were tiny wrists reaching out. I sprayed my own neck, and with my fingers transferred the perfume from my neck to my nose—I laughed.

I took a little hand, carefully pulled the child closer, sprayed her neck, touched my finger to her neck and then to her nose. There was more laughter and foreign talk from the children.

After that, all I saw was a sea of dirty little necks pushing toward me. I sprayed each of them and put some perfume on each nose.

I played with their hair, stroked their faces, and held their little hands. They touched my clothing, played with the rings on my fingers, and ran their tiny fingers through my hair.

All human barriers had vanished. This was affection! This was love! This was unity!

URGENTLY NEEDED! Slides and/or photographs of the first Bahá’í World Congress held in London, England, in 1963.

If you can help, please contact Carol Yetken by November 15 at the Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312-869-9039). [Page 10]

Teaching Faith both a duty and bounty for every Bahá’í

Have You Had Your Word of God Seminar?
If not, contact: National Teaching Committee Bahá’í National Center Wilmette, IL 60091 312/869-9039x231

TEACHING

In the Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh, humanity has been given the right to independent investigation of the truth.

No longer are beliefs to be blindly accepted because they were the beliefs of our forefathers or of the local clergy.

With that right comes the responsibility of all Bahá’ís to share the Message of Bahá’u’lláh with others and to give them the opportunity to investigate the Faith—in fact, teaching the Faith is considered an obligation of every Bahá’í.

Far from being a burden, this obligation is a bounty for us. For, as written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, “The greatest glory and honor which can come to an individual is to bring the light of guidance to some new soul.”

There are many ways to share the Message of Bahá’u’lláh. The most effective of them is through inviting a person to one’s home for a fireside meeting:

“...the most powerful and effective teaching medium that has been found so far is the fireside meeting, because in the fireside meeting, intimate personal questions can be answered, and the student ‎find finds‎ the spirit of the Faith more abundant there.” (From a letter written on behalf of the Guardian)

The fireside actually starts long before the formal event. It begins in the way one relates to people on a day-to-day basis, the way that you, as ‘Abdu’l-Bahá said, “weave bonds of fellowship with others and show absolute love and affection towards them. These links,” He explained, “have a deep influence on people and they will listen.”

What you speak about with your day-to-day contacts is also important. According to the Universal House of Justice, “the secret of successful teaching is to be so imbued with the wonder of the Faith, and the vital importance of its message that at every moment, in every circumstance, one is eagerly looking for the opportunity to give their precious gift to every soul one meets.”

Once the gift has been revealed in mention of the Faith, it can often be gently and humbly offered through an invitation to attend a fireside.

“The friends must realize their individual responsibility. Each must hold a fireside in his or her home, once in 19 days, where new people are invited, and where some phase of the Faith is mentioned and discussed. If this is done with the intent of showing Bahá’í hospitality and love, then there will be results. ...” (From a letter written on behalf of the Guardian)

A fireside may be presented in many different formats. It may be as informal as simply having a person over for coffee or tea; it may take place at any time of day; it may include a video tape or slide presentation.

Within this flexible framework, however, care must be taken that one’s guests are treated with warmth and hospitality, and that a topic and format have been chosen that will be of benefit and interest to the seekers.

“Moreover words and utterances should be both impressive and penetrating. However, no word will be infused with these two qualities unless it be uttered wholly for the sake of God and with due regard unto the exigencies of the occasion and the people.” —Bahá’u’lláh

If your friends, co-workers or neighbors are not responding to your invitations and your immediate opportunities to invite someone to a fireside seem exhausted, there are many ways that new contacts can be made:

“Let him survey the possibilities which the particular circumstances in which he lives offer him, evaluate their advantages, and proceed intelligently and systematically to utilize them for the achievement of the object he has in mind.

“Let him also attempt to devise such methods of association with clubs, exhibitions, and societies, lectures on subjects akin to the teachings and ideals of his Cause ... or participation in social, cultural, humanitarian, charitable, and educational organizations and enterprises which, while safeguarding the integrity of his Faith, will open up to him a multitude of ways and means whereby he can enlist successively the sympathy, the support, and ultimately the allegiance of those with whom he comes into contact.” —Shoghi Effendi

Perhaps it seems extreme to go to such lengths to find opportunities to tell people about the Faith. But let us remember that through our teaching efforts we have the ability to hasten the unfoldment of the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh and, ultimately, to help usher in the Kingdom of God on earth.

To be a part of this process is our sacred duty and our most honored blessing. It would behoove us, therefore, to make the mention of Bahá’u’lláh uppermost in our thoughts and in our hearts.

“Of all the gifts of God the greatest is the gift of teaching. It draweth unto us the Grace of God and is our first obligation. Of such a gift how can we deprive ourselves?” —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

World-renowned Chinese zheng player performs at N.Y.C. Bahá’í celebration

World-renowned Chinese zheng player Wang Chang-Yuan performs during an intercultural celebration of the unity of mankind held July 18 in New York City’s Chinatown. About 150 people attended the event.

Ms. Wang Chang-Yuan, a world-renowned Chinese zheng performer, was the special guest at an intercultural celebration of the unity of mankind organized by the New York City Bahá’í Teaching Committee and held July 18 in a public school auditorium in Chinatown.

The celebration was attended by about 150 people, about half of whom were Chinese, who had found out about it either through articles in one of seven Chinese newspapers or through Bahá’í friends.

Ms. Wang, China’s most famous zheng player, captivated the audience with her own composition, “Battling the Typhoon,” a vivid musical rendition of a natural phenomenon.

The zheng is an ancient Chinese classical instrument consisting of strings, a sound box, and movable bridges.

The music, together with the spirit of the Faith transmitted in part by two Bahá’í speakers who addressed the audience in Mandarin Chinese and English, compelled many of the visitors to leave their names and addresses to be contacted by the Bahá’ís and to take with them pamphlets which were offered in Chinese.

Chase

from page 8

died, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá said, “This revered personage was the first Bahá’í in America. He served the Cause faithfully and his services will be remembered throughout ages and cycles.”

‘Abdu’l-Bahá told the friends that they should visit the resting-place of Thornton Chase each year on His behalf. This year, the Spiritual Assembly of Inglewood sponsored a special commemorative program in honor of the 75th anniversary of the Master’s visit. The program, held September 26-27, included a conference and Unity Feast in addition to a moving memorial service at the gravesite.

Those who were present at the memorial service were able to meditate on the words of the Master which appear on the gravestone:

“This is the illumined resting-place of the holy soul, Thornton Chase, who is shining in the horizon of eternal life ever like a star.”

In April, the Bahá’ís of St. Matthews, Kentucky, in cooperation with the University of Louisville’s Bahá’í Club, invited traveling teacher Shamsi Sedaghat to speak at the university on the peace message from the Universal House of Justice. A large number of Bahá’ís and their guests heard Miss Sedaghat’s address which included pictures of the kings and rulers to whom Bahá’u’lláh addressed His Tablets urging them to renounce war and devote their resources and energies to the pursuit of world peace.

Cheyenne, Wyoming, another state capital needing homefront pioneers

In the September issue of The American Bahá’í, readers were introduced to Dover, Delaware, as one of the National Teaching Committee’s priority goal localities for homefront pioneers.

Dover is a state capital that, along with Carson City, Nevada; Trenton, New Jersey; Pierre, South Dakota; Montpelier, Vermont, and Cheyenne, Wyoming, does not have a Bahá’í community large enough to form a Spiritual Assembly. In an effort to encourage and assist homefront pioneers to move to these cities, we are publishing a series of articles containing helpful information about each of them. The city spotlighted in this issue is:

CHEYENNE, WYOMING

Cheyenne is in the southeastern corner of Wyoming, about 100 miles north of Denver, Colorado. The altitude is high and the climate cool, but winters are relatively mild.

There are only seven Bahá’ís in Cheyenne (population about 51,000), five of whom are adults.

It is especially important that an Assembly be formed in Cheyenne, because there is now only one local Spiritual Assembly in the entire state of Wyoming.

The main employment opportunities in Cheyenne are with the state and federal governments and the public school system. A chemical plant and oil refinery also provide employment.

Cheyenne is said to have a very good school system including a Montessori day school, 23 elementary schools, three junior high schools and three high schools. For adults, there is the Laramie County Community College and the University of Wyoming Extension Program.

Housing is readily available with 2-3 bedroom homes ranging from $35,000 to $70,000 and homes with three or more bedrooms from $50,000 to $150,000. Rental for a one-bedroom apartment is between $200-$400 a month, and for a 2-3 bedroom apartment, from $300-$800.

For more information, contact the Bahá’ís of Cheyenne, c/o Bob Morrisette, Cheyenne, WY 82001, or phone 307-632-2827.

Also, the Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce, Cheyenne, WY 82001 (phone 307-638-3388).

A move to Cheyenne will help us to fulfill the goals of the Six Year Plan!

University of Illinois President given copy of peace statement

On May 1, three Bahá’ís from Urbana, Illinois, called on Stanley Ikenberry, president of the University of Illinois, to present him a copy of “The Promise of World Peace.”

Dr. Ikenberry received them cordially, saying he was familiar with some of the Bahá’í principles through having had a Bahá’í roommate at one time during his own college years.

On July 6, graduate student Patrick Bergin, one of those who had called on President Ikenberry, presented the peace statement to UI Chancellor Thomas Everhart and 15 students during a “Breakfast with the Chancellor,” a periodic event at which students are given an opportunity to discuss their concerns with Dr. Everhart. [Page 11]

Traveling teachers have unique role to play

Traveling teaching is an activity that can take on many forms.

The mission of the traveling teacher can be accomplished in a variety of ways: through sharing a cup of coffee and conversation about the Teachings of Bahá’u’lláh with an isolated believer, for instance, or through encouraging and assisting a new Bahá’í community to organize its first Feast, or helping a small community to arrange a public meeting.

In explaining the unique role of the traveling teacher, the following was written on behalf of the Guardian:

“...What visiting teachers are supposed to do is to give the final touch to the work that has been done, to consolidate rather than supplement individual efforts and thereby direct them in a constructive and suitable channel.

“Their task is to encourage and inspire individual believers, and to broaden and deepen their vision of the task that is to be done. And this, not by virtue of any inherent spiritual right, but in the spirit of simple and wholehearted cooperation.”

Although various approaches and methods of presentation may be used according to the capacity of the individual or group, the Universal House of Justice has indicated in a letter to all National Spiritual Assemblies engaged in mass teaching work that in meeting with the friends the traveling teacher should try to discuss the following topics:

The extent of the spread and stature of the Faith today; the importance of daily obligatory prayers; the need to educate Bahá’í children in the Teachings of the Faith and to encourage them to memorize some of the prayers; the stimulation of youth to participate in community life; the necessity to abide by the laws of marriage and the importance of abstinence from all intoxicating drinks and drugs; the local Fund and the need for the friends to understand that the voluntary act of contributing to the Fund is both a privilege and a spiritual obligation; the importance of the Nineteen Day Feast and the fact that it is a rallying point for the entire community; the manner of the election of the local Spiritual Assembly; and, last but not least, the all-important teaching work, both in the community and its neighboring centers, as well as the need to continuously deepen the friends in the essentials of the Faith.

The role of the traveling teacher is to be involved with the process of consolidation, and while that effort should by no means be limited to a discussion of the above topics, it should include the discussion of one or more of them.

The work of the traveling teacher is to nurture the new believers and communities and to inspire the isolated Bahá’ís and Groups to raise themselves to functioning Assembly status and to carry forth the message of Bahá’u’lláh through their own initiative.

Bahá’ís who are interested in traveling teaching may wish to consider traveling to areas where consolidation is most needed. These include mass-taught areas such as South Carolina and southern Georgia, and those in which recent teaching projects, such as in central Texas, Kansas and eastern Iowa, have created a special need for intensive follow-up deepening activities.

Contact should be established with Dale Sollars (208-785-4495) who manages the Traveling Teacher Office and can help with logistical arrangements, offer suggestions, and provide a list of coordinators and Assembly contacts along a traveling teacher’s route.

In Malaysia, friends respond to ‘Spirit of Roses’

The influence of the “Spirit of the Roses” in the American Bahá’í community has traveled around the world and sparked activity in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Recently, when James Liew, a member of the International Chinese Teaching Committee, visited the National Teaching Committee office, he told of a teaching plan adopted by his local Spiritual Assembly in Kuala Lumpur that was inspired by reading stories about activities carried out in the Spirit of the Roses.

His Assembly, he said, determined that it would embark on a three-month effort to teach 191 people about the Faith.

This teaching effort was to be more than a proclamation or a mere mention of the Faith to 191 people; rather, it was to be an ongoing effort made by individuals and regularly reported to the community.

At Feast, people were asked to list persons to whom they would be willing to teach the Faith during a three-month period.

They submitted the names, along with their own names, to the coordinator who calls them regularly to ask if there is anything they would like to report to the community regarding their commitment.

Also, all community members are asked to pray for those who are being taught, as well as for the teachers.

Mr. Liew said that those who might ordinarily have forgotten their commitments, or who have procrastinated for years in making a friend or following up on a friendship in order to teach the Faith, are making a sincere effort to meet people for dinner, invite them to their homes, take coffee breaks with them, and talk with them about the Faith.

Merely mentioning the Bahá’í Faith is not enough, as they remember the sacrifice of the Bahá’í martyrs and prisoners in Iran.

An update on community-sponsored teaching projects

Below is a list of upcoming or ongoing teaching projects that have either been added to the list of projects contributing to the National Teaching Committee’s goal of 200 for this year or have had information updated since news of them was last printed in The American Bahá’í.

For each project, we have included the name and phone number of a contact person who would be happy to provide more information to those who would like to take part in their community’s project.

Los Angeles, California

West Hollywood Project. Ongoing (1st or 2nd Sunday each month). John Angelo, 213-654-4622.

Wichita, Kansas

Genola West Project. Ongoing. Linda Tedder, 316-838-9125.

Lowell, Massachusetts

Lowell Project. Ongoing. Zarine Afshar, 617-452-1380.

Milford, Massachusetts

Operation Daybreak. Ongoing. Dorothy Shaw, 617-473-5102.

Mille Lac Indian Reservation, Minnesota

Mille ‎Lac Lacs‎ Project. October 24-25. Norman Ellig, 218-678-2211.

Omaha Indian Reservation, Nebraska

Amoz Gibson Project/Nebraska. Ongoing (Saturdays). Jo Ellen Clifton, 402-846-5409.

Picuris Pueblo, New Mexico

Picuris Pueblo Service Project. Ongoing. John McGimsey, 505-758-3338.

Mandaree, North Dakota

Mandaree Service Project. Ongoing. Joyce Standish, 701-759-3347.

Please use the form below to report your community’s teaching project to the National Teaching Committee so that it can be added to our goal of 200 by Ridván. If you do not want your project to be listed in The American Bahá’í, please report it but indicate in the “comments” section of the form that you would prefer that the project remain unpublished.

Church members have questions, Bahá’í in Malawi has answers

The National Spiritual Assembly of Malawi writes of a young man who enrolled in the Faith when he perceived that the African church to which he had belonged did not hold, in his words, “the power of salvation.”

Soon a delegation of four church members visited him to try and persuade him to return to the church; they were extremely forceful in their arguments with the young man who, although not able to read, had been deepened by a fellow believer who read to him from the Bahá’í Writings and the Bible.

Because of the deepening he had received, he was able to counter their assertions and withstand their pressure, quoting passages from the Bible in answer to their challenges to his new Faith.

A second visit from church leaders had the same result. They took him to the church to question him, but it wasn’t long before they themselves were on the defensive.

“Please,” he said, “would you allow me to question you?”

“Yes,” they replied.

He then asked how many Christs there were, and they replied, “One, of course.”

How many Gods, he asked. Again, the answer was “one.”

“Well, if there is one God and one Christ,” the young man asked, “why are there a hundred churches?” He named the many he knew of, all of which disagree with one another.

He continued, citing Jesus’ exhortation to love one another. The church leaders were dumbfounded by his informed answers from their own Bible, and quickly withdrew.

Pioneers

from page 6

He wrote: “He will come to your aid with invisible hosts, and support you with armies of inspiration from the Concourse above; He will send unto you sweet perfumes from the highest Paradise, and waft over you the pure breathings that blow from the rose gardens of the Company on high.

“He will breathe into your hearts the spirit of life, cause you to enter the Ark of Salvation, and reveal unto you His clear Tokens and signs. Verily this is abounding grace. Verily this is the victory that none can deny.”

Award-winning fireside video tape available

The award-winning fireside video tape, “Bahá’í Faith: Put It to the Test,” is available (in one-half inch VHS format) for $10 plus $3 for shipping and handling.

To obtain a copy, simply send a check to BIO (Bahá’í Information Office), P.O. Box 624, Dayton, OH 45409.

Teaching Projects – 1987
Name of project:	____________________________________________________
Sponsor:	____________________________________________________
Dates:	____________________________________________________
Location:	____________________________________________________
Contact person:	____________________________________________________
Cost per participant:	____________________________________________________
Goal(s) of project:	____________________________________________________
Comments: ____________________________________________________
Return to: National Teaching Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091

Pictured at the Feast of Rahmat (June 23) are members of the Bahá’í community of Laguna Hills, California. The Feast was the first hosted by Joyce Melville (center, holding photograph of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá), a Bahá’í for one year who says that since enrolling in the Faith, ‘my life has never been fuller, richer or happier.’

On April 20 the Bahá’í community of Fountain Hills, Arizona, elected its first local Spiritual Assembly. Its members are (standing left to right) Frances Mathis, secretary; Ronald Mathis, vice-chairman; Shidokht Toloubadei; John Shipway, treasurer; Roha Sharghi; and Rezvan Golshani. Kneeling (left to right) are Fereshte Faustini; Dr. Anthony Faustini; and Dr. Forouzan Golshani, chairman. [Page 12]

STORIES OF THE MARTYRS

Ghulam Husayn Azami

Ghulam Husayn Azami was born to a steadfast Bahá’í family in Sangsar, a small town about 90 miles east of Tehran, in 1926.

His father, Haydar Azami, was a member of the Spiritual Assembly of Sangsar for about 30 years and brought many of his relatives into the Faith.

He was well-known in Sangsar, and although barely literate, was an effective teacher of the Cause.

The influence of Ghulam Husayn’s mother, a brave and stalwart soul, as well as his father’s, helped shape his character.

Mr. Azami earned his living working on the family farm, planting crops and raising animals, and spent his free time listening to Persian classical music and reading Persian classical poetry such as the Shahnamah of Firdowsi.

He himself would compose verses from time to time, and sometimes he would paint. He also spent time in the woods, hiking and hunting.

In 1976 Mr. Azami was elected to the Spiritual Assembly of Sangsar where he served for about three years. As the upheavals of the Islamic Revolution began, the Assembly appointed him custodian of the Bahá’í Center and other Bahá’í properties.

A fearless and brave believer, he readily assumed the dangerous responsibility of protecting the Bahá’í Center. His friends and relatives urged him to move to Tehran where he would be safe, but he was uncomfortable with that arrangement and decided to remain in Sangsar in spite of the danger.

One day during the Fast in 1979, as he and a group of Bahá’í s were engaged in dawn prayers, agents of the revolutionary government arrested them and took them to prison.

Although his companions were released shortly thereafter, Mr. Azami was held for 20 days, then transferred to Tehran where he was eventually incarcerated in the notorious Evin Prison.

There he lived an exemplary life, and won the respect of guards and other inmates.

Meanwhile, the government took action to seize his possessions, but, finding that he lived in a modest cottage, its agents reported that he had no wealth to speak of.

Notwithstanding this, he was falsely charged with “the theft of wealth and land of others.”

After repeated interrogations and threats to his life, Mr. Azami’s captors were unable to persuade him to recant his faith. Later, they accused and convicted him of “espionage for Zionism.”

After 14 months in prison, Mr. Azami was executed by firing squad with two other Bahá’ís on May 6, 1980.

On his corpse, which was turned over to his brother that same afternoon, was written “the enemy of God.” This was the first group of Bahá’ís officially executed for their religious beliefs.

At the time of his martyrdom, Mr. Azami was 54 years old.

In his will, he told his family, “Being killed for the Cause is a source of great joy for me and great honor for you.”

Green Acre marks anniversary of Master’s visit

A Unity Feast commemorating the 75th anniversary of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Unity Feast at Green Acre was held August 20 in Eliot, Maine. More than 300 people attended the historic event.

Sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Eliot and the Green Acre Bahá’í School, the Unity Feast was held on the porch of what is now the Green Acre office building.

When the Master hosted His Unity Feast in 1912, the building was the residence of Mrs. Emma Flynn. It is on the main road in Eliot, directly across the road leading to the Sarah Farmer Inn.

A banner stretching across the road celebrated the diamond jubilee of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit to Eliot.

As in 1912, the guests gathered on both sides of the road to take part in the event. A number of them wore turn-of-the-century or ethnic clothing in celebration.

The program included vocal and instrumental music by Rose Salmon; a welcome and introductions by Anne Atkinson; prayers read and sung by Carol Rutstein, Afaf Stevens and Ladjamaya Green; a talk on the history of Eliot and Green Acre by New York historian John E. Frost; and the reading of the talk given by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá at His Unity Feast, first in the original Persian, read by Dr. Paris Khavari, and then in English, read by Emanuel Reimer.

The Unity Feast was followed by a concert by the musical group Do’a, given to an overflow audience in Bahá’í Hall, and a sit-down reception at the Sarah Farmer Inn.

The reception, planned by the Spiritual Assembly of Eliot, was elegantly served by the members of the Sarah Farmer Women’s Center. A display of archival materials arranged by the Eliot Assembly was exhibited in the Sarah Farmer room of the Inn along with a map of the historic places visited by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

The event was attended by a number of non-Bahá’ís, one of whom declared her belief in Bahá’u’lláh.

The week-long celebration of the Master’s visit coincided with a week of celebrating the arts, which included talks, workshops, and performances by visiting artists Donna Kime, Marvin (Doc) Holladay and Anne Atkinson, as well as by a number of performers from the Eliot area.

The vision of Sarah Farmer and the hopes of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá for Green Acre were tied in with the theme of the development and use of the arts in educational settings and in Bahá’í community life.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá had spoken of Green Acre as “the ‘Akká of the Western world” and “an ideal spiritual training place for eager souls.”

On the very day that He hosted the Unity Feast in 1912, He spoke to Sarah Farmer and others of His hope that Green Acre would one day be the site of a great university and a House of Worship.

The Unity Feast commemorating ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit was a potent reminder of His high hopes for Green Acre and the fruition of Sarah Farmer’s vision.

Pictured are some of the Bahá’ís and their guests who gathered August 20 at the Green Acre Bahá’í School in Eliot, Maine, to celebrate the 75th anniversary of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit to Green Acre.

National Women’s Committee meets, charts ambitious course

The recently appointed National Committee on Women met for the first time August 27-30 at the Bahá’í National Center in Wilmette, Illinois.

The primary responsibility of the committee, which falls within the development group of the National Spiritual Assembly’s organization of the Six Year Plan, is to assume a major role in fostering “the practice of the equality of the sexes both in the life of the Bahá’í community and in society as a whole and, for this purpose, to hold special conferences and training programs for women and men.”

The committee looks forward to establishing a dialogue with the friends in the field; to accomplish this, its members will continue the liaison initiative established by the previous committee.

At its August meeting, the committee elected Juana Conrad of Glendale, California, chairman, and Marcia Gitchell of Hutchinson, Kansas, secretary.

Other committee members are Steve Gonzales, East Lansing, Michigan; Ruby Gubatayao, Lapwai, Idaho; Farfar Guillebeaux, Montgomery, Alabama; Alonzo Nesmith, Charleston, South Carolina; and Christine Rayner, Plantation, Florida.

The committee plans to attend the “Spirit of Houston: A Decade of Achievement, 1977-1987” conference sponsored by the National Women’s Conference Committee in Washington, D.C., November 19-22.

If you plan to attend this conference, please notify the Women’s Committee. The purposes of the conference are to:

• commemorate the historic “Spirit of Houston” conference held in Houston in 1977;
• review the 26-plank National Plan of Action ratified in Houston in 1977;
• assess the progress made in improving the status of women in the past 10 years; and
• build alliances and strategies for future action to guarantee full participation in the nation’s affairs, equal rights and opportunity for all women.

You may direct your ideas and/or questions to the National Committee on Women, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

Members of the recently appointed National Committee on Women, pictured during their first meeting August 27-30 at the Bahá’í National Center, include (left to right) Christine Rayner, Marcia Gitchell (secretary), Juana Conrad (chairman), Ruby Gubatayao, Steve Gonzales and Farfar Guillebeaux. Not pictured is Alonzo Nesmith.

Hemet sets memorial peace scholarship

The Spiritual Assembly of Hemet, California, has established the M. Darougar Memorial Peace Scholarships to be given each year to two local high school students in honor of one of the community’s members, Mahmoud Darougar, who died while attending the International Peace Conference in San Francisco in August 1986.

To qualify, students must write essays on the topic “Stepping Stones to Peace.”

Mr. Darougar, who came to the U.S. with his wife in 1979 after pioneering to many cities in his native Iran, served until his death as a member of the Spiritual Assembly of Hemet.

MAHMOUD DAROUGAR

Office of External Affairs has new Washington, D.C., home

The National Spiritual Assembly’s Office of External Affairs has completed its move from New Haven, Connecticut, to Washington, D.C.

The new premises are located near DuPont Circle, one of the city’s busiest intersections. It is an area sought by many non-profit groups for their national headquarters owing to the availability of office space in handsome old mansions.

The Office of External Affairs occupies the ground floor of such a mansion at 1606 New Hampshire Avenue N.W. The space comprises a small conference room, a free-flowing work area and two private offices.

The Office of External Affairs, which was set up in 1984 to deal with the federal government, national organizations and national news media, is an executive arm of the National Spiritual Assembly and is headed by a member of the National Assembly, Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh.

The volume of business transacted by the National Assembly through the Office of External Affairs has greatly increased in the three years of its existence.

It is of particular satisfaction that the National Spiritual Assembly was able to obtain premises for the office within one block of the residence of Mrs. Agnes Parsons, where ‘Abdu’l-Bahá stayed during the first of His three visits to Washington in 1912.

It was in this house that dignitaries of the city called on Him and throngs of visitors attended Him each evening at 5 o’clock. It was here that, standing one afternoon on the sweeping staircase, He revealed one of the much-used prayers.

The proximity of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s spirit will no doubt be a constant inspiration to the work of the new office. [Page 13]

Florence Bahá’ís sponsor ‘oneness of mankind’ march

A “Oneness of Mankind” march, organized by the Spiritual Assembly of Florence, South Carolina, was held August 15 in the city’s downtown area.

After marching and singing songs such as “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands” and “We Are the World,” more than 125 participants of various colors, nationalities and ages took part in a program of song, prayers, speeches and dance performed by the Atlanta Bahá’í Youth Workshop in a city parking lot.

Among those delivering spontaneous speeches were David Lucas, president of the local chapter of the NAACP; Auxiliary Board member Charles (Cap) Cornwell; traveling teacher William Varner; and Dr. Kurt Hein, director of WLGI Radio Bahá’í.

More than 50 youth from South Carolina and five other states spent the week before the march visiting Bahá’ís in Florence, South Florence and Darlington, inviting local residents to participate in the march and teaching the Faith to those who were interested.

Firesides were held each evening, and the Youth Workshop gave several performances to teach the message of unity and attract interested souls to the Faith.

At least five declarations resulted from the teaching project. With the help of the youth, the Bahá’í community of Florence was able to clear its newly acquired Center property of weeds and debris in preparation for the formal dedication of the land on September 13.

The march itself was planned by the Assembly to counteract the negative effects of marches throughout South Carolina this summer by the Ku Klux Klan, which was trying to recruit new members.

Since all citizens have the right to express their views freely, city councils were unable to refuse parade permits to the KKK; however, the Florence police were happy to issue a permit and provide an escort for the Oneness of Mankind march.

Some of the 125 people who took part August 15 in a ‘Oneness of Mankind’ march organized by the Spiritual Assembly of Florence, South Carolina, begin the five-block march to a city parking lot. The march was planned to counteract the effects of marches in the state this summer by the Ku Klux Klan. Both radio and television gave good coverage to the event, in which more than a dozen non-Bahá’ís, black and white, took part.

Public Information Conference set for Los Angeles in December

• A public information conference is scheduled December 19 at the Bahá’í Center in Los Angeles. The program will include discussions about the definition of public information and the role of the Public Information Representative.

• As of September 1, local Spiritual Assemblies had registered 515 persons as Public Information Representatives for their communities. Appointment forms are coming in at a regular pace. Has your community appointed its Public Information Representative?

• The Office of Public Information is evaluating ways in which it might assist the Bahá’í Public Information Network to develop better relations with ethnic newspapers, radio and TV stations. These sometimes neglected media channels provide excellent opportunities for attracting public attention to the teachings of the Faith and the activities of the local Bahá’í community.

• North Shore magazine, which serves the suburban area near Wilmette, Illinois, recently carried an article about the commitment of the staff at the Bahá’í National Center to the Reading and Math Program (RAMP) in inner-city Chicago. The development project for the staff was chosen by the National Center as a result of a previous article in the same magazine about the RAMP.

• Whenever your local newspaper carries a mention of the Faith (excluding ads that Bahá’ís have placed), please forward the original page containing the article to the Office of Public Information, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. We need your articles to analyze coverage of the Faith in local newspapers.

From the Network

• Bahá’ís in Kansas have been attracting considerable media attention because of their activities. In June and July, the Hutchinson News carried nine articles and letters about the Faith and Bahá’í activities. Several letters to the editor, both for and against the Faith, were published as a result of articles about the June 27 Unity picnic.

• The Chattanooga (Tennessee) Times printed an editorial on August 17 condemning the persecution of Bahá’ís in Egypt. The editorial was not solicited by Bahá’ís. Because the friends have a strong relationship with the paper, and because of national news releases about the situation in Egypt, the editor felt compelled to speak out against the persecution.

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

Public Information reminder

Whenever a news release is issued or an ad is placed in your local newspaper announcing a public meeting to be held in a residence, the Office of Public Information recommends that you do not list the address of the residence. In most cities and towns there could be the possibility of legal problems, since you are inviting the public to a residence that may not be zoned as a public meeting place. It is best to list a telephone number to call for information about the event. Then you can personally invite the individual and provide the address.

Salt Lake City celebrates Master’s visit in 1912

More than 300 Bahá’ís and their guests gathered September 4-7 in Salt Lake City, Utah, to commemorate the 75th anniversary of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit to that city on September 28, 1912.

A special feeling of fellowship among the attendees was attributed to the focus on the example of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

A special guest was the Hand of the Cause of God Collis Featherstone who addressed the group on the topic of service through social and economic development projects in Bahá’í communities around the world.

Mr. Featherstone also spent time with the youth and pre-youth, speaking about the growth of the Administrative Order and the importance of books.

Auxiliary Board member Carol Brooks and Richard Chamberland, an assistant to the Auxiliary Board, facilitated a discussion of the dynamics of the Bahá’í administrative process as outlined by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

Dr. Hoda Mahmoudi excited the group with the challenge to follow ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s example in teaching the Bahá’í Faith.

In keeping with the focus on the example of service to humanity given to us by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, more than 45 adults and youth and many children dug weeds out of the International Peace Gardens in Salt Lake City’s Jordan Park.

The gardens, representing 22 nations, were begun in 1947 by the Salt Lake City Council of Women, which incidentally is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year also.

At the end of the service project, Steven Schwab, the city forester and representative of the mayor of Salt Lake City, and a member of the Council of Women were given two newly planted maple trees for the gardens. The Gilmer family of Bahá’ís then performed a lovely vocal piece on peace.

Free musical concerts given by the Bahá’ís each evening took in donations of $300 which were split between the Muscular Dystrophy Association and Utahans Against Hunger.

Saturday’s concert featured singer Red Grammer and many singing children; a Korean dance group, the youngest member of which was two years old; and Seaforth and Jenkins, a musical duo from California.

At Sunday night’s formal concert, pianist Mark Ochu combined an excellent recital with historic and artistic references to the promise of world peace.

new from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust

Introduce a Child to the Sacred Text

27 memory verses from the writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

More than three dozen drawings—half in color—illustrate the quotations and sensitively depict the diversity of the world’s peoples and cultures

Compiled by Leslie Lundberg Illustrated by Terry Ostovar Hardcover $‎995 9.95‎

Bahá’í Distribution Service 415 LINDEN AVENUE, WILMETTE, IL 60091 TEL 1-800-323-1800

• Price valid only in the United States

[Page 14]

Market research study of U.S. Bahá’í community completed

The Bahá’í Publishing Trust and Distribution Service recently completed a market research study of the U.S. Bahá’í community.

Questionnaires were sent to a random sampling of Bahá’ís across the country and were designed to find out basic information about who buys books and where they buy them.

“If we had limited the survey to questions about book-buying habits, it would not have been of much use to us,” said Marketing Manager Robert Blum. “It was also important to find out some basic information about the make-up of the community.”

For that reason, a number of questions were related to age, ethnic background, family income, Fund contributions, prayer and the use of the Sacred Texts, and information about the size and administrative status of the local Bahá’í community, he said.

“We were quite pleased by the response we received,” said Mr. Blum. “Almost 20 percent of the questionnaires were returned, and that’s a very good rate of return.”

“We’re happy that those who answered the questionnaires were careful to respond to all the questions, and that many shared additional comments that should be very helpful,” said Dr. Amy S. Marks, who designed and conducted the survey.

“That research of this kind is now being undertaken,” she said, “is an exciting development in the growth of the Administrative Order in this country.”

Information from the questionnaires is still being tabulated, and the conclusions drawn will help guide the Publishing Trust and Distribution Service in making decisions about their activities, said Mr. Blum.

Other information that can be distilled from the responses will be helpful to other agencies of the National Spiritual Assembly.

“We hope,” said Mr. Blum, “that this survey will provide a foundation for future research.

“Research like this takes us from the time when we were making educated guesses about who was out there and what they wanted to a time when we should have a fairly accurate picture of our community and its needs.”

Distribution Service Top 25 Sellers B.E. 144

1. The Writings of Bahá’u’lláh—A Compilation 2. The Purpose of Physical Reality 3. Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era 4. God Passes By 5. Tapestry Note Cards (pkg of 10) 6. Blessed Is the Spot 7. Jewel of the Lotus 8. The Promise of World Peace, pocket size (pkg 10) 9. Bábí and Bahá’í Religions, Smith 10. Bahá’í Prayers and Holy Writings 11. The Gift of Life (pkg 10) 12. The Bahá’í World, Vol. 18 13. Prayers and Meditations, pocket size 14. Teaching Cards—Wilmette House of Worship (pkg 25) 15. Hour of the Dawn—The Life of the Báb 16. Teaching Peace 17. Bahá’í Prayers, softcover 18. The Bahá’í Faith: The Emerging Global Religion 19. The Hidden Words and Selected Writings 20. The Bahá’í Faith: An Introduction 21. Prayers and Meditations 22. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the Master 23. Thief in the Night, softcover 24. The Major and Minor Plans of God 25. Bahá’í Prayers, hardcover

Bahá’í Distribution Service ORDER FORM

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A leading educational organization is the co-producer of a new introductory video program on the Bahá’í Faith. Available now through the Bahá’í Distribution Service, ‘The Bahá’í Faith: Through the Eyes of Young Bahá’ís’ is part of a series of programs on the world’s religions from Pergamon Educational Productions in Great Britain and was produced in cooperation with the Bahá’í Publishing Trust of the United Kingdom. According to Pergamon, the program presents ‘an accurate and informative introduction to this new world religion ... and provides a stimulating basis for ... discussion.’ After the video was previewed by the National Teaching Committee, committee member Dr. Hoda Mahmoudi said, ‘It gives a very nice global perspective and shows the diversity of Bahá’í youth. I recommend it highly.’ The Bahá’í Faith: Through the Eyes of Young Bahá’ís is available in both VHS and Beta formats for $25.

Here’s a new, inexpensive booklet to introduce people to the Bahá’í views on world peace. ‘The Bahá’í Peace Program’ by Dr. Hossain Danesh is a brief outline of the Faith’s approach to peace. It contains a short section explaining the Faith, a section highlighting the first 130 years of the Faith’s ‘peace’ history, the spiritual nature of man, the spiritual foundations for peace, the concept of the collective growth of mankind, the spiritual nature of man, the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, and the Bahá’í community. The booklet is a reprint from the ‘World Encyclopedia of Peace’ published by Pergamon Press, and is available in packages of five for $4.50.

Publishing Trust plans ambitious

An ambitious schedule of new titles and reprints is planned by the Bahá’í Publishing Trust during the next year.

Several reprints of the works of Bahá’u’lláh are scheduled in the coming months including two new pocket-sized editions.

Epistle to the Son of the Wolf will be reprinted in both hardcover and pocket-sized editions and will include a number of corrections to the text and glossary provided by the Universal House of Justice.

The hardcover edition will match the recent maroon, leather-like hardcover editions of Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, the Kitáb-i-Íqán, and Prayers and Meditations.

The new pocket-sized edition of Epistle to the Son of the Wolf will match the other works of Bahá’u’lláh that have been issued in pocket-size.

The Publishing Trust will also be issuing a pocket-sized edition of Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh that will contain corrections supplied by the Universal House of Justice.

Two major compilations—both addressing the Six Year Plan’s emphasis on the Covenant—are expected to be released. The first, tentatively titled Foundations of Bahá’í Belief, will contain the Tablet of Carmel, the Kitáb-i-Ahd, the Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, and The Tablets of the Divine Plan.

Compiled by Dr. Geoffrey Marks, the work will contain a brief introduction to each document and a selection of passages from the Bahá’í Writings dealing with its importance.

A second compilation, with the working title Covenant and Testament, is being prepared as a replacement for The Covenant and Administration.

This new compilation will mark a radical departure from its predecessors by emphasizing the relevance of the Covenant to one’s personal growth and development.

The compiler, Auxiliary Board member Ronna Santoscoy, says the aim of Covenant and Testament is to place all the references to the Covenant that are scattered throughout the Bahá’í writings into one handy reference book.

A number of new titles are planned for adults and children.

The first of these is the recollections of a Bahá’í, Ali Yazdi, [Page 15]Pray to God that He may strengthen you in divine virtue, so that you may be as angels in the world. . . . —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Pray to God that He may strengthen you.

As you look at the pages shown (above to the right or to the left), you can see what a child sees each time he or she turns a page in the new book ‘Tablet of the Heart: God and Me.’ On the right-hand page there is a quotation from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá that a younger child can easily memorize. Above it is an appropriate illustration showing the racial and cultural diversity of the Bahá’í community. On the left-hand page there is a longer version of the same quotation for an older child to commit to memory. In all, there are 27 memory verses compiled by Leslie Lundberg and illustrated (about one-half of the illustrations are in color) by Terry Ostovar. The quotations deal with the principles Bahá’ís live by and with spiritual qualities. Each illustration is designed to convey the essence of the quote. Not only will the child be learning the sacred texts, but the issues raised by the quotations may spark some interesting discussions between children and their parents. Tablet of the Heart: God and Me is available in a long-lasting hardcover edition for $9.95.

The Six Year Plan

Development of isolated centers into Groups and Groups into LSAs

The 17th in a series of columns on the goals of the Six Year Plan.

Recent studies and books about the growth of the Bahá’í Faith show clearly that its development as a world community began to take on concrete form with the publication of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Tablets of the Divine Plan. That development burgeoned under the plans instituted under the ministry of the Guardian, Shoghi Effendi.

In the Six Year Plan, we are asked to continue many aspects of this development including a specific directive for local communities. The Universal House of Justice calls for the adoption of “specific programs to assist and encourage the development of isolated centers into groups, and groups into communities with local Spiritual Assemblies, resulting in the steady increase of such Assemblies.”

This plan, as with those of the past, requires the support of the agencies of the Administrative Order. In the U.S. these agencies offer a wealth of materials to help in the work of teaching and deepening.

At the foundation is the Creative Word—the writings of Bahá’u’lláh—the source for our personal transformation. That transformation is the one and only thing Shoghi Effendi said would “unfailingly and alone assure the undoubted triumph of this Sacred Cause. . . .”

The Sacred Texts of the Báb and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, along with the voluminous works of Shoghi Effendi and the messages and letters of the Universal House of Justice, provide an incalculable wealth of power and guidance for us all. In addition, there are compilations and monographs on nearly every facet of the teachings of the Faith, introductory material in print and on audio and video tape, and a spectrum of teaching and deepening ‎aides aids‎.

We have the successes of the recent past to encourage us, we have the Creative Word to transform us, the materials to support our efforts, and the Plan of the Universal House of Justice to direct our actions. The tools are in our hands, and the work of building the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh is ready to be done.

The four tapes in the ‘Echoes of the Lotus’ set bring a treasured record of events that took place at the dedication of the Mother Temple of the Indian sub-continent. Three of the four tapes present the inspiring and informative talks of the Hands of the Cause of God Amatu’l-Bahá Rúḥíyyih Khánum, Collis Featherstone and William Sears, Counselor B. Afshín, and Temple architect Fariburz Sahba. The fourth tape is devoted to choral selections in Hindi, Persian and English and Indian vocal and instrumental works performed during the dedication ceremonies. In all, the tapes contain five and one-half hours of material. The set of four tapes is $29.95. The music tape is available separately for $8.95.

Applicants are sought for two positions at Publishing Trust, Distribution Service

Applications are being accepted for two positions at the Bahá’í Publishing Trust and Distribution Service: marketing assistant and customer service representative-receptionist.

Qualifications for marketing assistant include a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts (experience in lieu of a degree will be considered), some Bahá’í administrative experience, and work experience.

Duties and responsibilities include writing copy for Bahá’í periodicals, advertisements, promotional flyers, brochures and newsletters; dealing with printers and designers to produce advertising and promotional pieces; and working at Bahá’í conferences, conventions and trade shows.

The position also entails some interaction and correspondence with customers and accounts.

The customer service representative-receptionist’s duties include processing mail and telephone book orders, handling customer complaints and problems, preparing correspondence, filing, answering telephones, and greeting visitors. A knowledge of Bahá’í literature is helpful as is familiarity with computers.

To apply for either position, please contact the Department of Human Resources, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312-869-9039). It is possible that either or both of these jobs may be filled before the publication of this issue of The American Bahá’í.

Mother expresses appreciation for ‘Gift of Life’

“One of the most touching gifts I’ve received, The Gift of Life, was sent to me by a friend. ...It is an inspiring collection of writings from the Bahá’í Faith for parents of a newborn.

“Especially meaningful is the way it recognizes that with the birth of a child, there is also the birth of a mother, a father, a family. The renewal of faith in all the promises of mankind is also felt by the community.

“The introduction to the booklet states that ‘birth is at once both unique and commonplace, majestically profound and miraculously simple.’ These words express so cogently what I have always felt with the birth of my babies.” —Patricia Savage, home schooler and mother of five

The Gift of Life is available from the Bahá’í Distribution Service in packages of 10 for $12.50.

schedule of new titles, reprints

who knew both ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and Shoghi Effendi. From 1910-20 Mr. Yazdi was often in the presence of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and was a classmate of Shoghi Effendi.

Mr. Yazdi’s remembrances are titled Blessings Beyond Measure. They provide one of the rare accounts in English by someone familiar with the customs and household arrangements of Persian Bahá’ís. It is expected that the book will be published by the end of the year.

Another book of recollections, this one of the Hand of the Cause of God Zikrullah Khadem, titled With Love, should be published later in the year.

It is to include reminiscences by his widow, Auxiliary Board member Javidukht Khadem, accounts written by his children, and documents relating to his years of “indefatigable fearless” service to the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh.

Also scheduled for early publication is a novel, To Dance in the Market Square, by Linda Walbridge. It follows the lives of six generations in a family of Persian Bahá’ís and provides a powerful examination of what it means to dedicate one’s life to Bahá’u’lláh.

The Chosen Highway, by Lady Blomfield, is to be reprinted in cooperation with the Bahá’í Publishing Trust of the United Kingdom.

The book includes historical accounts of the lives of the Central Figures of the Faith drawn from personal conversations and letters from people closely associated with the early days of the Faith.

Two children’s books are scheduled for publication in the coming year. One is a book for ages three to seven, What Do Bahá’ís Do? by Susan Stengle.

It covers various aspects of Bahá’í life including saying prayers, going to Feast, working and playing together, giving to the Fund, telling others about the Faith, observing Holy Days, reading Bahá’í books, loving one another, and serving others. What Do Bahá’ís Do? will include four-color illustrations by Winifred Barnum Newman.

Also scheduled is Katie, a novel for teens by Cindy Savage. It tells the story of a high-school girl who meets a Bahá’í in class, slowly resolves her feelings about this new and strange religion, and finally declares her belief in Bahá’u’lláh.

In addition to these books, a number of special materials are scheduled for production in the coming year. Please watch The American Bahá’í for details on when these items from the Trust will be available and their prices.

Bahá’í from Gallup garners top awards

Tanya Arsenault, a Bahá’í youth from Gallup, New Mexico, was graduated from high school this year and won (1) the President’s Scholarship, (2) the Elks Club Scholarship, and (3) the President’s Academic Fitness Award.

The first two pay a total of $2,000 toward college tuition and books; the third is a certificate signed by President and Mrs. Reagan. [Page 16]

‘Trail of Light’ teaching team tours Lappland region

A “Trail of Light” team consisting of Vernon Longie of Bismarck, North Dakota, and Ruby Lawson (Gubatayao) of Lapwai, Idaho, was invited by the Bahá’í Sami Teaching Committee and the Counselors in the Americas to take part in June in an international conference of the Sami people, who are natives of a geographical region called Lappland, spanning northernmost Sweden, Finland and Norway.

Ms. Lawson, who is of the Tsimshian Tribe, and Mr. Longie, a Chippewa, were able to share many aspects of American Indian culture and the message of Bahá’u’lláh on an informal level with the Sami people whom they met at the conference, which was held in Kiruna, Sweden.

When the conference was over, they traveled to the town of Kautokeino, high in the Arctic Circle, where they shared their culture and their Faith with the student body and staff at a junior high school, at a vocational arts and crafts school, and at the National Sami Cultural Institute.

The visitors attended the Mid-Summer Camp Bahá’í School in Karesuando, Sweden, then traveled to Finland, staying with some pioneers from Alaska in the town of Angeli for about two weeks.

During their stay they went to a Sami radio station, where Mr. Longie was asked to record some songs and to speak about American Indian culture.

He and Ms. Lawson were later invited to take part in a live radio broadcast from a sacred spot on an island. For the program, Mr. Longie chanted a song in the Chippewa language and explained, in English, that he had thanked the Creator, and Bahá’u’lláh, the Glory of God, for bringing them to that special sacred spot.

While in Finland they also spoke at public meetings and firesides, all of which were well-attended.

From Finland, Mr. Longie returned to Sweden while Ms. Lawson went to Norway where her visit was featured in a local newspaper and she spoke during a radio program about the martyrdom of the Báb.

Also, some 40 people came to a museum to hear her speak about Indian culture and the Bahá’í Faith.

At a birthday celebration, also attended by 40 people, most of whom were urban professionals, she was asked to speak and again was able to share the message of Bahá’u’lláh.

The visit of Mr. Longie and Ms. Lawson to Lappland, which was arranged by the U.S. International Goals Committee, lasted about six weeks.

It was not the first such visit by American Indian Bahá’ís; these friends built upon a foundation of good-will laid by the teaching work of about 10 other American Indian Bahá’ís who have visited Lappland over the past several years.

Their hope was to continue to build upon the strong bonds that are developing between the people of the Sami and American Indian cultures, and it appears that their efforts were quite successful!

Cherokee Bahá’í guest speaker at Houston Council Fire

During the weekend of August 23-24, Frank McLemore, a Cherokee Indian, was the guest speaker at the American Indian Council Fire held at the Bahá’í Center in Houston, Texas.

Mr. McLemore is the secretary of the American Indian Teaching Committee and producer of the Dallas-based radio program, “Beyond Bows and Arrows.”

His topic at the Council Fire was “Tribal People and the Holistic Approach to Life.”

More than 70 people took part in the event including 30 non-Bahá’ís, some of whom attended both days of the weekend event.

Among the attendees was a woman from the Belgian Consulate who had read about it in the local paper. She is a peace activist and leader of an African dance troupe.

On Saturday, following a Unity picnic on the lawn of the Bahá’í Center, a fireside was held using the video “Circle of Unity,” in which four American Indians describe how becoming Bahá’ís confirmed their tribal heritage and provided a holistic approach to life.

The group also viewed two other videos: “Traditional Native American Prophecies and the Bahá’í Faith” and “The Honor of All.”

The event was planned by the Bahá’í Office of Public Affairs for the greater Houston area. Every non-Bahá’í who attended expressed a deep appreciation for the chance to participate in the Council Fire and to learn from the experience.

Five Bahá’í youth take part in building project on North Dakota’s Fort Berthold Reservation

On the evening of August 11, five Bahá’í youth arrived on the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation in North Dakota to help the local Bahá’ís with a building project.

Although it had not been planned that way, each of the youth who had decided to get together from various parts of the Midwest and travel to the project site represented a different culture: black American, Japanese, American Indian, Persian, and white American.

The young women stayed with a friend of the local Bahá’ís who eagerly invited them into her home, while the young men were invited to stay with a new Bahá’í with whom they were able to discuss many aspects of the Faith during their visit.

On the morning of their first day in Mandaree, the group met with a member of the local Spiritual Assembly to talk about the project whose goal is to build a Bahá’í community center complex including an earth lodge, a log cabin, sod house, and volleyball court.

The complex would be used for many purposes, among them children’s classes, Bahá’í conferences, and as lodging for traveling teachers and other Bahá’í visitors. So far, the Bahá’ís of Mandaree have raised more than $200 from bake sales to help finance the project.

The youth then visited the Bahá’ís in Mandaree. A picnic was held, which gave the youth a wonderful opportunity to become acquainted with the Bahá’ís there and the friends they had brought to the picnic with them.

The next day, August 13, work began on construction of the sod house, which will be used to accommodate visitors while work is being completed on the other two structures. In the evening, the youth were invited to dinner in the home of a friend of the Bahá’ís.

After another day of hard but rewarding work, the first side on the sod house was completed. That evening, which was to be their last in Mandaree, the visitors were again invited to dinner by the same woman who had invited them the night before.

This time, however, she had also invited 15 teen-agers who were members of a support group for children of alcoholic parents. After dinner, the teens, their sponsor, the hostess and her two sons discussed the Faith with the Bahá’í youth far into the night.

On returning home, one of the Bahá’í youth said, “My teaching trip to Mandaree was really a refreshing experience.” She plans to return to Mandaree during her school break this winter.

The National Teaching Committee asks that those who may also wish to take part in the building project contact the Spiritual Assembly of Mandaree, c/o Joyce Standish, secretary, Mandaree, SD 58757. Phone 701-759-3347.

14th Conference of Nur draws 320-plus

The 14th annual Conference of Nur, sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and held May 29-31, drew a record attendance of more than 320 adults, youth and children.

The theme of this year’s conference was “The Vision of Bahá’u’lláh.”

Among the speakers were Auxiliary Board members Tahireh Ahdieh, Javidukht Khadem and William Roberts; and Dr. Daryush Haghighi, a Trustee of the Huqúqu’lláh.

Mrs. Khadem spoke on “The Spiritual Progress and Development of Mankind,” explaining our advancement through 6,000 years of recorded history through the 10 epochs that Shoghi Effendi called “the 10 majestic processes.”

Dr. Roberts reviewed the major accomplishments of the Faith so far during the Fourth Epoch and explained some of the important episodes in past epochs.

Dr. Ahdieh spoke inspiringly about “Arming for Reassurance,” recalling the days of the Blessed Beauty and His mission to bring unity and peace.

Dr. Haghighi spoke lovingly of “The Spiritual Significance and Mystery of Sacrifice,” saying that sacrifice has been and will continue to be the cause of individual spiritual growth as well as the advancement of the Cause of God.

Each of the main sessions was followed by group workshops led by facilitators who were able to discuss the topics further and enable the friends to gain a clearer and deeper understanding of them.

Saturday evening’s concert was given by talented Bahá’í musicians who uplifted everyone’s soul. Among them:

Classical guitarist Scott Anderson; guitarist Lee Feldman; Paul and Sandy Huening with Adrienne Stengel; Persian violin and songs by Ferydoon and Fereshteh Aryani; and Evander Gilmer and family accompanied by organ and synthesizer.

Later in the evening, recorded music for fun and dancing was emceed by Shidan and Sherveen Lotfi.

Highlights of the conference were conveyed in a message to the Universal House of Justice, which replied:

“The House of Justice was very pleased to learn of the success of the conference, which brought together a large number of the important friends from every age group. You are assured of the prayers of the House of Justice in the Holy Shrines for your continued success in serving the Cause of the Blessed Beauty.”

There were at least two declarations at the conference, which included a well-planned children’s program staffed by LEAP teachers and their assistants with help from 70 volunteers.

At the close of the conference Dr. Roberts paid tribute to Mrs. Khadem for the love and service she gave to the Bahá’ís in Pennsylvania and surrounding states until this year, when her assigned area was changed.

Gibson Project’s prayers answered

Some wonderful news has been received from the Amoz Gibson Teaching Project in Wanblee, South Dakota. The prayers of the sponsoring Spiritual Assembly of Rapid City, the director, and all those involved in the project have been answered—three desperately needed vehicles were donated to the project only a few days after all the project’s vehicles had failed!

The vehicles, all of which are in good condition, include a 1982 station wagon from Texas, a Volkswagen van which arrived from somewhere near the Bosch Bahá’í School, and, also from California, a 1984 Jeep Cherokee with only 27,000 miles on the odometer. [Page 17]

WORLD NEWS

An increasing number of National Spiritual Assemblies are exploring the ways in which Bahá’í contributions to the arts can promote the teachings that inspired them.

In South Africa in August, more than 2,000 people attending an arts festival in Grahamstown saw an exhibition of paintings by the South African Bahá’í painter, Reginald Turvey, whom the Guardian called “the father of the Bahá’ís of South Africa.”

The display, sponsored by that country’s National Spiritual Assembly, was part of a nine-month tour of Turvey paintings to cities and towns throughout South Africa that had been associated with the painter’s life.

Among the Bahá’ís taking part in the Grahamstown exhibit and responding to visitors’ questions about the Faith was Lowell Johnson, who edited the biography of Mr. Turvey’s life.

All royalties from the biography, as well as income from the sale of selected paintings by Mr. Turvey, are being deposited in a special bursary fund to assist students in the arts.

Elsewhere, public interest in the arts encouraged the National Spiritual Assembly of the Central African Republic to undertake an ambitious project in collaboration with the Ministry of Communication, Arts and Culture.

The project, which took the form of a drawing and poetry competition arranged by the Bahá’í community, was a response by the National Assembly to the government’s expression of an interest in focusing public attention on the topic of world peace through the medium of the arts.

Results of the competition were announced June 27, and the winners received their prizes from the Ministry.

Afterward, the Minister wrote to express his appreciation and to congratulate the National Assembly most warmly for the impressive success of the event.

The National Assembly was invited to meet with the director of Arts and Culture to discuss the possibilities of future collaborative events of this kind.

The arts figured prominently also in the Bahá’í contribution to a recent peace festival in Nishi Chugoku, Japan.

At the invitation of the principal organizer of the festival, the local Bahá’ís arranged an exhibit that blended photographic displays, traditional Japanese floral arrangements, art work on peace themes by local school children, a display of haiku poems on the same topic done in calligraphic style, and an exhibit of Bahá’í books and photographs.

Among the activities organized by the Bahá’í community were an “Are You a World Citizen?” questionnaire, a UNICEF charity bazaar, a “World Trip” game for children, and discussion Tea Corners in Japanese and English.

The largest single feature of the festival was the “Janet Maloney Show,” whose central figure, a Bahá’í from Tokyo, is a nationally known television personality.

See WORLD page 20

Left photo: Riaz Khadem of Atlanta, Georgia, makes a presentation to the conference. Right photo: The meeting was held in the spacious conference room at the Bahá’í National Center in Wilmette, Illinois.

Conference studies integration of Iranian Bahá’ís

Responding to a recommendation from the National Persian/American Affairs Committee, the National Spiritual Assembly convened a conference August 29 at the Bahá’í National Center to discuss the integration of Iranian Bahá’ís into the life of the U.S. Bahá’í community.

Invited to take part in the conference were members of the Continental Board of Counselors resident in the U.S.; National Teaching Committee; National Persian/American Affairs Committee; National Race Unity Committee; Community Development Committee; National Youth Committee; Office of Pioneering; and the directors of Administrative Services and Community Administration at the National Center.

The Board of Counselors was represented by Wilma Brady and Fred Schechter.

In suggesting the conference to the National Assembly, the Persian/American Affairs Committee said it would be more effective in its efforts to enlist the energy and the spiritual and material resources of the more than 8,000 Iranian Bahá’ís in the U.S. in the life and work of our community if it were able to mobilize the support of other Bahá’í institutions.

Those at the conference agreed that the various institutions of the Faith could be instrumental in planning strategies and encouraging local communities; it was, however, their view that the integration of Bahá’ís from Iran into the mainstream of American community life would come about only as a result of the combined efforts of individual believers across the country, addressing the needs of each local community.

Successful integration was defined as achieving unity between American and Persian Bahá’ís while maintaining the diversity, or cultural uniqueness, of the Persian believers.

It was decided that strategies for reaching these goals should be based on the particular needs of each community; however, several programs were recommended as guidelines for use by the institutions of the Faith when working with the local communities.

These programs are:

• Advising Iranian Bahá’ís to teach Native Americans, blacks, Hispanics and Asians to increase diversity and achieve a demographic balance.
• Recommending focused deepening on The Advent of Divine Justice for both Persian and American believers.
• Providing information to Iranian Bahá’ís about U.S. Bahá’í laws and practices.
• Providing information to Iranian Bahá’ís about U.S. civil laws and practices.
• Supporting ongoing consultation between the National Persian/American Affairs Committee and key Iranian and American believers.
• Educating the American Bahá’í community to help bring about better intercultural understanding and awareness.
• Educating local Spiritual Assemblies to enable them to solve problems that may arise among the Persian Bahá’ís.
• Developing materials to promote teamwork and harmony between Persian and American believers.

The Persian/American Affairs Committee suggested that The Advent of Divine Justice, which is available in both English and Persian, be promoted as the “book of the year” for intensive study and discussion in Bahá’í communities throughout the country.

The committee has produced a “conceptual model” of the integration of Iranian Bahá’ís into the life of the U.S. Bahá’í community which balances unity (assimilation) with diversity (uniqueness).

Unity, it says, includes understanding one’s new environment; gaining skills in interacting with that environment; being accepted by others; and accepting others.

Diversity, on the other hand, includes preserving the useful elements of one’s culture; feeling proud of that cultural heritage; and being able to combine elements of one’s culture with those in the new environment.

The Universal House of Justice, the committee points out, has offered the experience of the Bahá’í community as a “model” for the peoples of the world to study and to emulate.

The arrival of the Iranian Bahá’ís, it says, serves to increase the diversity of the American Bahá’í community so that it can become a convincing model for the world of unity in diversity.

At the request of the National Persian/American Affairs Committee, the National Spiritual Assembly has chosen The Advent of Divine Justice as the ‘book of the year.’ The NPAAC feels that The Advent of Divine Justice, which is now available in Persian and English, ‘gives the answers to our major concerns about the Iranian and American Bahá’ís.’ Individuals and communities are encouraged to adopt this important work of the beloved Guardian for intensive study and discussion of the implications of Shoghi Effendi’s analysis of the destiny of America and the mission of the U.S. Bahá’í community. Available from the Bahá’í Distribution Service in Persian (SC $4.25) or English (HC $12.95, SC $8.50).

San Diego community hosts forums on peace titled ‘World in Transition’

During the past year the Bahá’í community of San Diego, California, in consultation with the local Peace Resource Center, presented a series of forums on world peace entitled “World in Transition”.

The purposes of the events were:

• to acquaint the people of San Diego with the activities of local peace groups;
• to provide a platform for organizations to present their ideas and goals;
• to encourage communication with these organizations;
• to stimulate new ideas and energy;
• to draw the cords of peace networking tighter for closer communication;
• to fit the fragmented parts of the peace movement into a more cohesive mold for greater effectiveness;
• to firmly establish the principle that peace is not only possible but inevitable.

Thirty-eight speakers from various organizations told what their groups are doing to promote peace, while 14 Bahá’í speakers presented the Bahá’í view on topics ranging from disarmament to working for a more humane world.

The most prominent speaker was Professor ‎Johann Johan‎ Galtung of Norway, founder of six Peace Research Institutes, an international lecturer, author of some 100 articles and several books.

In his talks, Professor Galtung listed three non-aggressive religions: Buddhists, the Society of Friends (Quakers), and the Bahá’í Faith.

At other lectures, he quoted from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s talks in California. (The Swedish consul attended Professor Galtung’s lectures.)

Many speakers had not known of the Bahá’í Faith before. When introduced to its principles, some remarked, “Well, I guess I’m a Bahá’í and didn’t know it.”

Two articles view Iran persecutions

Two articles about the persecution of Bahá’ís in Iran are included in “Human Rights,” one of a series of monographs issued recently by Social Issues Resources Series Inc. in Boca Raton, Florida.

The volumes discuss such wide-ranging topics as money, mental health, energy, ethnic groups, crime, defense, sexuality, technology, ethics, transportation, youth, the family, drugs, consumerism, aging, alcohol, women, and many others. [Page 18]

CLASSIFIEDS

Classified notices in The American Bahá’í are published free of charge as a service to the Bahá’í community. Because of this, notices are limited to items relating to the Faith; no personal or commercial messages can be accepted for publication. The opportunities referred to have not been approved by the National Spiritual Assembly; the friends should exercise their own judgment in responding to them.

EMPLOYMENT

BAHÁ’Í physicians: Two positions in internal medicine are available at a central New Jersey HMO closely affiliated with the medical school and its teaching hospitals. Nearby Bahá’í Group seeking Assembly status. Please contact Dr. Ilham Deloomy, Highland Park, NJ 08904, or phone 201-545-5973 (evenings).

PIONEERING (HOMEFRONT)

HOMEFRONT pioneers: need a spiritual challenge? Come to Greenville, North Carolina, and help revive the local Spiritual Assembly and a previously active community. Greenville, a fair-sized city about two hours east of Raleigh, is the home of East Carolina University, a growing school with a good medical school, a solid education department, and a good arts department. There is potential for a Bahá’í Club, as there is already one Bahá’í undergraduate. Greenville needs you! For more information, phone Warren Rochelle, 919-772-1340 or Art McKinley, 919-469-2783, or write to the District Teaching Committee of Eastern North Carolina, c/o Warren Rochelle, secretary, Garner, NC 27529.

NEEDED: Bahá’ís to move to Terre Haute, Indiana, to help save its jeopardized Assembly. Terre Haute (population 61,125 city, 112,385 county), on I-70 some 180 miles from Chicago, Cincinnati, St. Louis and Louisville, and 70 miles from Indianapolis, is the home of Indiana State University, St. Mary’s-of-the-Woods, Ivy Tech and Indiana Business College. There are three high schools, two hospitals, and the Hulman Regional Airport. Low housing costs. As an added incentive, here is an excerpt from a letter of January 27, 1957, written on behalf of the Guardian: “Terre Haute is an important city, and should have a strong Assembly and Community. The Guardian will pray for you, for the Friends, for the success of their work; and that many seeking souls may find eternal life through their selfless efforts.” For more information, please contact the Spiritual Assembly of Terre Haute Inc., P.O. Box 481, Terre Haute, IN 47808.

MOVE to Cherry Hill in southern New Jersey and help rescue our Assembly. Cherry Hill, a dynamic community 20 minutes from Philadelphia, two hours from New York City, three hours from Washington, D.C., and one and a half hours from the Atlantic Ocean, has an excellent school system, homes at reasonable cost, and an active Bahá’í community. For more information, write to the Spiritual Assembly of Cherry Hill, P.O. Box 3054, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034, or phone the Taheri family, 609-424-6030.

THE “LITTLE Apple,” better known as Manhattan, Kansas, needs homefront pioneers to help stabilize a potentially jeopardized Assembly (presently nine adult members). Kansas State University in Manhattan is ranked as one of the better educational bargains nationwide. Its approximately 17,500 students are enrolled in the colleges of agriculture, architecture, engineering, veterinary medicine, arts and sciences, business administration, education, and human ecology. Employment is available in construction, nursing, retail, with some jobs open at the university. Manhattan (population 40,000) is nestled in the lovely Flint Hills area of the Plains, enjoys near access to two lakes for recreation, has fine parks and a zoo, and is within reasonable driving distance of a number of larger cities. For more information please write to the Spiritual Assembly of Manhattan, P.O. Box 933, Manhattan, KS 66502.

HOMEFRONT pioneers needed! Want a spiritual challenge? Want to work hard for the Faith? Come to Rocky Mount, North Carolina, and help revive a lost Assembly and deepen mass-taught believers. Rocky Mount has employment opportunities with such firms as Black & Decker and Abbott Labs. It is the home of a small but growing college, North Carolina Wesleyan. For information, phone Mary Spires, 919-446-5889, or Warren Rochelle, 919-772-1340, or write to the District Teaching Committee of Eastern North Carolina, c/o Warren Rochelle, secretary, Garner, NC 27529.

PIONEERING (OVERSEAS)

BAHAMAS: Persons with a background and experience in diesel mechanics are sought for a project on Andros Island. A diesel-power generator mechanic is needed for overhauling central power generation plant diesel engines in sizes from 200Kw to 1000Kw. Applicants should have 3-5 years experience. Also needed is a diesel power plant operator for a plant consisting of several 500Kw and 100Kw diesel engine generators and a 4,160-volt switchboard. Applicants should have at least two years’ experience as a shift operator in a diesel electric generation station. Also needed is a marine diesel mechanic to maintain, repair and overhaul GM series diesel engines and all related shipboard equipment. At least four years’ experience is required. For more information, contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

MARSHALL Islands: The U.S. Army is seeking patrol officers to assume law enforcement/security duties at a facility on Kwajalein Atoll. Applicants should be graduates of a Police Academy or equivalent, have three years’ security experience during the last five years, be in good physical condition including proper height in proportion to weight, and be capable of acquiring a security clearance. For more information, contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

NEPAL: A non-profit group is seeking an infection control nurse and a physical therapist for an 18-month assignment as consultants in a 350-bed general hospital and to supervise infection control techniques and procedures for the wards, OR and OP departments. Requires background knowledge and experience with antiseptic techniques and infection control methods. Previous overseas experience preferred. Stipend, room and board, and travel expenses will be provided. For more information, contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

OPPORTUNITIES for a loan officer and an education planner exist for West African assignments. The loan officer would act as chief adviser to a loan program for small- to medium-scale enterprises. Applicants should have prior African or international experience. Applicants for the education planner position should have a Ph.D., at least five years’ education planning experience in Africa, and be fluent in French. For more information, contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312-869-9039).

FACILITIES engineers are being sought for U.S. Naval facilities in the Caribbean. Applicants should have a civil, electrical or mechanical engineering degree or architecture degree with three years’ professional experience, or be an architectural technician with five years’ related industrial experience. For more information, contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

THE PEACE Corps is seeking individuals to act as Associate Peace Corps Directors in education, training, administration, rural development, health and agriculture. Special recruitment needs at this time are for French-speaking agricultural and health specialists. These positions require substantive management experience and an advanced degree; cross-cultural experience; language requirements vary from country to country. Qualified applicants will be placed in a talent bank for consideration for overseas vacancies in the next year. Salary commensurate with experience; range is from $22,800 to $50,400 per year. Initial tour is a 36-month appointment. For more information, contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

JAMAICA: Opportunities exist, through a volunteer organization, for two dentists and a physician to provide a comprehensive program in health care for the poor, unemployed and unskilled people in the area of Kingston. Housing and transportation are locally provided. For more information, contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312-869-9039).

INTERNATIONAL Voluntary Services Inc., with headquarters in Washington, D.C., a private, independent, non-profit technical assistance agency that works in small-scale development projects in non-industrialized countries, is seeking candidates with a minimum of two years’ previous Third World work experience and relevant technical degree. IVS is presently working in Bangladesh, Bolivia, Botswana, the eastern Caribbean, Ecuador, Ethiopia, Honduras and Zimbabwe in the fields of agriculture, health, small business and cooperatives, and appropriate technology and engineering. IVS’s participation is through advisers with 2-3 years previous experience in development. They recruit from many countries to provide local agencies with technical expertise that otherwise would be unavailable. For more information, contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

TAIWAN: Three health-care projects are seeking professional staff in the following areas: (1) for a 400-bed hospital: family practitioner, physician with specialty in geriatrics, physical medicine physician. Salary and benefits vary depending on length of stay. For short-term, room and board are provided; for a stay of a year or more, a salary is provided. For long-term, round-trip air fare is also included and training in Chinese language would be required. (2) 3- to 6-month positions which would involve teaching are available in a 300-bed hospital. Positions include public health nurse, infection control nurse, urologist, cardiovascular surgeon, and intensive care nurse. Compensation depends on experience, with food and housing provided. (3) A family practitioner is needed immediately for 1-2 years to serve a 50-bed village hospital near Bollobhpur, handling midwifery, medicine, simple surgery and infectious diseases. Travel expenses, salary and housing are provided. For more information, contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

TAIWAN: A commercial government contracts administrator is needed to take part in aspects of proposal preparation, negotiation of contract provisions, contract preparation, close customer interface, and all aspects of fixed price and cost-reimbursable contracts. Applicants should have at least three years’ highly relevant experience. For more information, contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

WANTED

THE NATIONAL Bahá’í Archives is seeking 1952-67 state and district voting lists for eastern New York state, Massachusetts, Virginia, North Carolina, Kentucky, northern California, Nebraska and Minnesota. Anyone having lists they could donate is asked to send them to the National Bahá’í Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

WANT a challenge and a change? The Dry Spot Inc., a non-profit social and economic development project in Westminster, Maryland, needs energetic go-getters, youth and adults, to help reach the community through this alcohol- and drug-free center for young people. Westminster is close to Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania. The job market is wide open. One can volunteer time at the Dry Spot while working at a full- or part-time job in the area. All kinds of help is needed: secretarial, public relations, artists, writers, steering committee members, and musicians and other entertainers for ongoing events. Looking for high-quality talent now for the annual Dry Spot event in March 1988. If you find any of this interesting, write to Paula M. Myers, director, The Dry Spot Inc., P.O. Box 1609, Westminster, MD 21157, or phone 301-876-8879 or 301-848-7646.

ETHNIC artists and writers desired by high-quality children’s magazine. Donate your ability and help educate children. Send samples to: Brilliant Star, Box 127, Lahaska, PA 18931.

DESPERATELY needed: assistant director for the Amoz Gibson Teaching Project on the Indian Reservation in Wanblee, South Dakota. Must be 21 years or older, recommended by one’s local Spiritual Assembly, deepened in the Faith, and willing to serve long, hard hours, physically, mentally and spiritually. If interested, please contact the Spiritual Assembly of Rapid City, Rapid City, SD 57709, or phone 605-342-3562.

SINGERS: The Bahá’í House of Worship Choir is looking for additional singers of all races and levels of experience to fill out its size and sound. This is an open invitation to all singers within driving distance of Wilmette to sing at the Mother Temple of the West. Also, if you or your community know of any singers from minority backgrounds, we’d especially welcome their participation. We rehearse each Thursday evening, and sing at devotional services two Sundays per month. Take part as much as your schedule allows—the idea is to join us in song and prayer as much as you are able ... and bring along a friend. For a choir schedule and further details, contact Merrill Miller at the Bahá’í National Center, 312-869-9039, ext. 283.

BRILLIANT Star magazine needs writers. For a current list of themes, write to the editor, Debbie Bley, Chattanooga, TN 37421.

THE NATIONAL Bahá’í Archives is seeking, on behalf of the Universal House of Justice, original letters from the Guardian to the following deceased Bahá’ís: Faith Amberg, Gladys Aderson, Leslie W. Ames, Edwin Anderson, Grace Anderson, Helen S. Anderson, Jennie Anderson, Katharine H. Anderson, Mary Anderson, and Earl M. Andrews. Anyone knowing family members or relatives who might have the letters or know where to find them is asked to contact the National Bahá’í Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

WANTED: Information for a research paper on “road shows,” traveling groups that use the arts to proclaim the Faith. If you have performed in one, please send a short history of the group, including any enrollments that resulted, to Jocelyn Boor, Shorewood, WI 53211.

BAHÁ’Í man seeks to finish interrupted education; would like to study languages (especially Esperanto, Farsi, Portuguese, Spanish, French, Latin and Russian). Seeks to relocate if possible, and to work (full-time) and attend school at night (part-time). Advice, comments, prayers appreciated. Contact Patrick Hervol, P.O. Box 223, Duncan, AZ 85534.

CHILDREN ages 9-13, Brilliant Star magazine needs black and white art work drawn vertically for its back cover. Send your work to Rita Leydon, art director, Lahaska, PA 18931.

WE ARE getting ready to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Faith in Bellingham and Whatcom County, Washington, and need information about pioneers and teachers to and from the area. If you have such information or know of anyone who does, please write to the Spiritual Assembly of Bellingham, P.O. Box 103, Bellingham, WA 98227, or phone Lina Zeine, 206-734-6505 (evenings).

AN ORGANIZATION to represent professionals currently giving workshops, seminars and training programs in consultation on a national level is being planned. If interested, please send your brochure or other information showing your specialty. A conference will be held in about six months to discuss how we can best serve mankind through the teaching of consultation. Please include a stamped self-addressed envelope and send to Mrs. Elizabeth Bohn, St. Louis, MO 63116.

WANTED by Bahá’í writer/poet, a publisher. New Bahá’í seeks to break into writing field, journalism, etc. High school, some college, small local success at getting published. Contact Patrick Hervol, P.O. Box 223, Duncan, AZ 85534.

ITEMS AVAILABLE

CLEMENTINE and the Cage by Wendy Heller, a delightful story intended for children ages five and up, blends themes that touch the deepest concerns and most universal challenges of the human spirit—striving to be the very best one can be in spite of ridicule and opposition, and facing the unknown with courage and faith. The use of Bahá’í themes in an indirect way makes Clementine an excellent gift for Bahá’ís and non-Bahá’ís alike and a good library presentation item. Regularly $7.95 in hardcover, now available for $6.95! Order today from Images International by sending a check (plus 10 per cent for shipping and handling, minimum $1) to P.O. Box 1051, Dept. AB, Belchertown, MA 01007.

INDEXES to Brilliant Star magazine are available for $2 each. Specify year(s). Send to Debbie Bley, Chattanooga, TN 37421.

ON SALE now ... Gordi Munro’s “Unity in Diversity.” Regularly $8.50, now only $7.99! Gordi Munro’s spirited and upbeat music will have the [Page 19]

CLASSIFIEDS

everyone singing. Powerful themes of unity and love are echoed in all the songs by this exciting young Canadian musician. Order today from Images International by sending your check (plus 10 per cent for shipping and handling, minimum $1) to P.O. Box 1051, Dept. AB, Belchertown, MA 01007.

THE Bahá’í Regional Youth Committee No. 2 has several souvenir items for sale: white T-shirts with the logo “The Bahá’í Faith: The Missing PEACE” ($6 postage paid); navy T-shirts with the logo “Uniting the World ... Against the Odds?” ($8 postage paid); and mechanical pencils with the logo “Uniting the World ... Against the Odds?” ($1.50 each, postage paid, or $10 for a set of 10). Please send name, address, T-shirt size and style, and check payable to: RYC No. 2, P.O. Box 5028, Laurel, MD 20707.

NEED a gift idea? Send a gift subscription to Brilliant Star magazine, the gift they keep receiving for a year (or two!). Send $12 for one year (six issues) to Brilliant Star, c/o Subscriber Service, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. Other prices (overseas, two-year, etc.) available on request.

THE SONG Celestial, by Howard Colby Ives, is a book-length poem that captures the essence of the eternal conversation between God and man—man expressing his longing, his love, fears and doubts, while God offers love, reassurance and understanding. Beautifully written and printed; your choice of white or red hardcover. A lovely gift by the author of Portals to Freedom now available from Images International for $5.95 (regularly $6.95). Order today by sending a check (plus 10 per cent for shipping and handling, minimum $1) to P.O. Box 1051, Dept. AB, Belchertown, MA 01007.

ONE WORLD Products is a Bahá’í-owned company that distributes games, books, posters and other materials that reflect Bahá’í values and principles (for example, “The Earth Game”). For a free brochure, write to One World Products, 1710 South Barry, Apt. 3, Los Angeles, CA 90025.

'Great law' of Huqúqu’lláh is 'source of good'

“Huqúqu’lláh is indeed a great law. It is incumbent upon all to make this offering, because it is the source of grace, abundance, and of all good. It is a bounty which shall remain with every soul in every world of the worlds of God, the All-Possessing, the All-Bountiful.”—Bahá’u’lláh

Payments for Huqúqu’lláh should be made to the Bahá’í Huqúqu’lláh Trust and sent to one of the Trustees:

• Dr. Elsie Austin, P.O. Box 927, Silver Spring, MD 20910 (phone 301-589-8481).
• Dr. Amin Banani, Santa Monica, CA 90402 (phone 213-394-5449).
• Dr. Daryush Haghighi, Rocky River, OH 44116 (phone 216-333-1506).

Inquiries regarding Huqúqu’lláh should be referred to one of the Trustees or to: Bahá’í Huqúqu’lláh Trust, 21300 Avalon Drive, Rocky River, OH 44116 (216-333-1506).

Visits from students make July special month at Indian Temple

July stood apart from most other months at the Bahá’í House of Worship in New Delhi, India, in part because of the four special prayer programs held July 9 to commemorate the anniversary of the martyrdom of the Báb.

The evening program was followed by a small gathering in the ancillary building of the Temple where a talk was given on the importance of the day.

The distinguishing feature of the visitors to the House of Worship in July was the number of young students in groups of threes and fours.

It is always rewarding to talk to students, and even more so if they are disciplined and keenly interested, as the students at the Naval Public School in New Delhi, who came in groups of 85 from July 22-24.

They were quite curious and wanted to know about the Faith in detail. The teachers were also quite pleased to visit the House of Worship and have invited the Bahá’ís to the school to speak to their colleagues about the Bahá’í principles.

One teacher said her students are eager to come to the Temple, adding that it has become a topic of animated discussion in their school.

A group of 21 German tourists asked many questions about the Faith. They appreciated the Bahá’í religion for such principles as progressive revelation, the equality of men and women, universal education, and, above all, the fact that Bahá’ís neither ask for nor accept outside donations.

When it was explained to them how funds were collected, their respect for the Faith increased.

The way in which German visitors in general respond to the Bahá’í message makes one think that the Faith has great potential for rapid growth in Germany. They are eager to take the German-language Bahá’í pamphlet that is available in the library at the House of Worship.

Another group of nine tourists from Germany and Switzerland were on their way to Kashmir and Ladakh when they spotted the House of Worship from their aircraft. On landing at Delhi, they inquired about it and decided to see it before they left for home.

They liked it so much that they have decided to visit the House of Worship in Frankfurt and hope it will be as beautiful as this one.

Among the groups that visited the Temple from various parts of India, the 45-member group from Andhra Pradesh was the most interested.

With great respect, they listened to information about the House of Worship and the Bahá’í Faith. An elderly gentleman, who was translating into the Telugu language, said he was deeply touched by what he had heard. He felt it was very fortunate that the group had come to the Temple at the advice of another busload of visitors, from Guntur, who had previously paid a visit.

A group of 14 architects and town planners from India and the Philippines, in New Delhi for a seminar, saw the Temple from afar, became very excited, and decided immediately to visit it.

Their main interest was in the architecture, but when the purpose of the House of Worship was explained to them they were most impressed.

A group of 12 nuns of the Presentation Order from various parts of India also visited the Temple in July, and for the first time, showed a keen interest in the Faith.

One of them said she has heard Bahá’í radio programs, which she found excellent, from overseas. Some wanted to know how one becomes a Bahá’í; and all were fascinated by the beauty of the House of Worship.

Hayat Javed, a long-time Bahá’í from Old Delhi, brought with him one Sunday evening Messrs. Mehdi and Hassan Jaani, sons of Hasan Nizami, a well-known Sufi in Delhi who had met ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in Egypt and received from Him prayer beads, a prayer cloth and copy of the book The Seven Valleys.

Mr. Hayat encouraged them to donate those articles to the Bahá’í archives, which they promised to do as soon as they could locate them. Each was given a copy of the Kitáb-i-Íqán.

Can you identify anyone in this picture?

If you can identify the mother and child in this portrait, please contact the National Bahá’í Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

Emphasis on service at Manchester’s Youth Conference

“Service ... at all times, in all climes” was the theme of a Bahá’í International Youth Conference held August 5-9 in Manchester, England.

Some 1,340 Bahá’ís and their guests from 43 countries were present at the conference which was blessed by the presence of the Hand of the Cause of God Ugo Giachery.

The event was organized by the Bahá’í youth of the United Kingdom.

The speakers, who came from Israel, India, Norway, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Lebanon, Italy, the Republic of Ireland and Canada, covered such topics as women and peace; a vision of Europe; aspects of Bahá’í law; the unfoldment of world civilization; the future; challenges of the present; service; obligations and options; the Bahá’í Faith as a development model; and an analysis of contemporary political systems.

A stellar lineup of entertainers was headed by Doug Cameron, a well-known musician from Canada, and Linda Fields, a black American singer from Germany.

During the conference the youth donated 95 liters of blood to the National Transfusion Service; afterward, many took part in 10 service projects in Scotland, Northern Ireland and down to Wales, Devon and London.

The services ranged from clearing elderly people’s gardens to working with mentally handicapped children, clearing forests and making fences to protect young trees.

Their completion was marked by a mini-conference in London with lectures, discussion of the projects, Polish/Russian entertainment, a visit to the resting place of Shoghi Effendi, and a picnic.

Pictured are Bahá’ís from Butte, Montana, who marched for the first time this year in the city’s annual Fourth of July parade.

New from George Ronald, Publisher

Summon Up Remembrance

by Marzieh Gail

The fascinating story of a pleasure-seeking Persian boy who became one of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s leading English translators and united East and West in the first Persian-American Bahá’í marriage

Here is the colourful story of Ali-Kuli Khan, the first to translate into English such important works as the Seven Valleys and the Kitáb-i-Íqán and whose marriage to Florence Breed was the first between a Persian and an American Bahá’í.

A unique feature is the inclusion of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Tablet of Cremation, published here for the first time in English.

320 pages, 16 illustrations Hardcover $25.00 Softcover $14.95

Order through your local librarian, or send check or money order to: Bahá’í Distribution Service, 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091. [Page 20]

De los escritos Bahá’ís ...

“Al principio de su vida humana, el hombre era embrional en el mundo de la matriz (útero). Allí recibió capacidad y dotación para la realidad de la existencia humana.

“Necesitaba oídos; los recibió allí en aptitud y preparación para su nueva existencia. Los poderes que se requieren en este mundo le fueron conferidos en el mundo de la matriz, de manera que, al entrar él en este reino de verdadera existencia él poseía no solamente todos los poderes y funciones sino que también encontró que lo esperaba provisión para su sustento material.

“Por consiguiente, en este mundo él tiene que prepararse para el mundo del más allá. Aquello que él necesita en el mundo del Reino lo tiene que obtener aquí. ...

“¿Qué es lo que él necesita en el Reino que trasciende la vida y la limitación de esta esfera mortal? Aquel mundo del más allá es un mundo de santidad y refulgencia, por lo tanto, es necesario que en este mundo él adquiera estos atributos divinos. En aquel mundo hay necesidad de espiritualidad, fe, certidumbre, y el conocimiento y amor de Dios. ...

“Aquel mundo es claramente un mundo de luces; por eso, el hombre tiene necesidad de iluminación aquí. Aquel mundo es un mundo de amor; el amor de Dios es imprescindible. Es un mundo de perfecciones; hay que adquirir virtudes o perfecciones.

“Aquel mundo queda vivificado por el aliento del Espíritu Santo; en este mundo tenemos que buscarlo. Aquel es el Reino de la vida eterna; la misma hay que obtenerla durante esta vida pasajera.

“¿De qué manera podrá el hombre adquirir estos dones y poderes misericordiosos? Primero, mediante el conocimiento de Dios. Segundo, mediante el amor de Dios. Tercero, mediante la fe. ‎Quarto Cuarto‎, por actos filantrópicos. Quinto, por la abnegación. Sexto, mediante separación de este mundo. Séptimo, mediante la santidad y beatitud.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, The Promulgation of Universal Peace, páginas 225-26)

Intercambie ideas sobre estas palabras con el Bahá’í que le enseñó la Fe, o con otro creyente. Repasen las siguientes preguntas juntos:

• ‎¿Cuales ¿Cuáles‎ son las cualidades que ‘Abdu’l-Bahá dice que necesitamos para el mundo venidero? A su parecer, ‎¿cuales ¿cuáles‎ son algunas otras cualidades que necesitamos adquirir?
• ¿De qué manera podemos obtener el conocimiento de Dios?
• ¿De qué manera podemos demostrar nuestro amor por Dios?
• ¿Cómo podrá Ud. establecer un plan regular en su propia vida para poder crecer en los siete sectores de actividad que permitan a la humanidad adquirir las perfecciones espirituales?

Si Ud. quisiera leer más acerca de las Enseñanzas Bahá’ís relacionadas con la naturaleza de ‎humanidad la humanidad‎ y la vida después de la muerte, refiérase a los libros a continuación: “Pasajes de los Escritos de Bahá’u’lláh,” especialmente las páginas 104 a 125. “Contestación a Unas Preguntas,” páginas 165 a 242.

Seven major goals of Six Year Plan

1. Carrying the healing Message of Bahá’u’lláh to the generality of mankind 2. Greater involvement of the Faith in the life of human society 3. A worldwide increase in the translation, production, distribution and use of Bahá’í literature 4. Further acceleration in the process of the maturation of local and national Bahá’í communities 5. Greater attention to universal participation and the spiritual enrichment of individual believers 6. A wider extension of Bahá’í education to children and youth, and the strengthening of Bahá’í family life 7. The pursuit of projects of social and economic development in well-established Bahá’í communities

Cambridge Bahá’í on Peace Commission

Since last December, Brian Aull, a Bahá’í from Cambridge, Massachusetts, has been a voting member of the Cambridge Peace Commission, a publicly funded city government department that advocates for peace-related issues.

His membership resulted from the Commission’s enthusiastic response to a presentation last September of “The Promise of World Peace.”

Each summer, the Commission operates a “Peace Camp,” a three-week period in which young peace activists from Europe visit to take part in a variety of workshops, service projects and internships with peace groups.

Mr. Aull, together with another Commission member who had written a book about “consensus” decision-making, presented during a weekend retreat in Maine a workshop on consultative or consensus-oriented decision-making.

Mr. Aull explicitly discussed Bahá’í consultation; its values, methods, and relevance to peace-making. Each of the 20 youth was given a written version of his presentation and a copy of “The Promise of World Peace.”

What is especially exciting, says Mr. Aull, is that among the participants in the peace camp were several young people from Eastern Bloc countries: two Russians, two Poles, an East German, three Czechs, a Hungarian and a Romanian.

Also taking part were people from England, Holland, West Germany, France and Italy.

World

from page 17

Local ‎Bahá’í’s Bahá’ís‎ estimate that 600 people visited the Bahá’í exhibit. There were several enrollments.

Finally, a thrilling report has been received from Taiwan where the “Muhajer Teaching Project,” begun last May, has far surpassed the National Assembly’s fondest hopes with nearly 450 new believers enrolled, most in the past two months.

Between 10 and 15 declarations are being received each day. Deepening classes are a regular part of the weekly activities, and have now been reinforced by a new mass consolidation program based on a series of 14 specially dubbed video presentations.

Seven new local Spiritual Assemblies have been formed, while the opening of 17 new localities to the Faith has meant the successful completion of Taiwan’s locality goal for the first phase of the Six Year Plan.—Bahá’í International Community, Office of Public Information, Haifa

NPR broadcast cites statements on Iran by Congresswoman

On August 19, National Public Radio’s “Morning Edition” broadcast a news story regarding Maryland Congresswoman Connie Morella’s statements about the persecution of Bahá’ís in Iran and their designation as “non-persons.”

The story was the result of an appeal to the congresswoman from a Bahá’í in Maryland for help in getting her mother from Pakistan to the U.S. for emergency medical treatment.

El ‎rincon rincón‎ del libro ... Contestación a unas preguntas

El propósito de esta sección es el de presentar libros que están disponibles mediante el “Bahá’í Distribution Service” y que ofrecen algunas de las principales Enseñanzas Bahá’ís.

Contestación a Unas Preguntas es una serie de contestaciones de una a dos páginas cada una, dadas por ‘Abdu’l-Bahá a más de ochenta preguntas sobre temas tales como la influencia de las Manifestaciones de Dios, asuntos cristianos, y la naturaleza de la humanidad. Las preguntas tienen un alcance que abarca la resurrección de Cristo, la diferencia entre el hombre y el animal, la vida después de la muerte, y conflictos entre empresas y trabajadores. Aun cuando el libro es una colección de charlas por ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, en vez de declaraciones escritas, El aprobó la versión final antes de imprimirse.

New Study Materials! THE WORD OF GOD

Now available from the Bahá’í Distribution Service are deepening materials on the topic of the Word of God. The new book, developed by the National Teaching Committee, is the first of a series that will explore major themes raised in Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation.

The Guardian noted “the principles, administration and fundamentals of the Faith are well known, but the friends need greatly to study the more profound works which would give them spiritual maturity to a greater degree, unify their community life, and enable them to better exemplify the Bahá’í way of living....” This book, and others to follow, will introduce such topics and will serve as a bridge to expanded study of the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, and Shoghi Effendi.

The Word of God is suitable for individual study or group deepenings, and for new or long-time believers.

Each lesson is divided into a number of segments (as illustrated below) providing an introduction, overview of the material, readings, stories that further explain the topic, and study questions. Students can create their own pattern for study by using the sections that best help them learn.

Topics covered include the influence of words, the nature and powers of the Word of God, and use of the Word of God.

At the end of the book is an index with references on the topic of the Word of God that go beyond those quotations used in the lessons.

Available now ... for only $2.00 per copy!

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

Name
Address
City	State	Zip
Phone
Credit Card Number (circle one) Mastercard / Visa	Exp. date

Please send The Word of God at $2.00 each.

Copies: ______

Total: $ ______ [Page 21]

Courting: Customs often differ

Traditional Persian culture is conservative with regard to relations between the sexes when compared to typical practices in the United States.

Many older Persians may feel somewhat uncomfortable to be alone with members of the opposite sex other than their spouse or relatives. Most younger Iranians from metropolitan areas, however, are more likely to have adopted some Western ideas about dating and marriage.

If a young unmarried couple is seen going out together, older Iranians will assume they have plans for marriage, although this may not be true.

At times, the difference between the attitudes of Iranian parents toward dating and the prevailing norms of the Western culture is seen by non-Iranians as prejudice toward them. The parents may object to their children, especially their daughters, "dating" in general, but it is sometimes perceived as an objection to their associating with non-Iranians, particularly the minorities.

Public displays of affection between members of the opposite sex is rare among Iranians, even between those with long-standing marriages. On the other hand, physical contact between those of the same sex is common. For example, Iranian men may greet one another with a kiss on the cheek, or stand holding hands as they speak.

As Bahá’ís, we all need to review our attitudes in the light of Bahá’í principles and teachings, and to seek opportunities to share our perceptions, confusions, and insights with one another.

دربارهء قمار

ON PROHIBITION OF GAMBLING

آیا بهائیان میتوانند قمار کنند؟ پاسخ صریح این جواب در کتاب اقدس از قلم جمال قدم نازل گشته است: "حُرِّمَ عَلَیْکُمُ المَیْسِرُ وَ الاَفْیُون. اِجْتَنِبُوا یا مَعْشَرَ الْخَلْقِ وَ لا تَکُونُوا مِنَ الْمُتَجاوِزین." مضمون تقریبی این بیان مبارک به زبان فارسی چنین است: قمار و افیون بر شما حرام شده است. ای گروه آفریدگان از این دو دوری گزینید و در زمرهٔ تجاوزکاران مباشید. در اینجا میتوان پرسید چرا برخی قمار میکنند، و یا چرا نباید قمار کرد.

مشکل بتوان در میان افراد بشر کسانی را یافت که دوران کودکی را با بازی کردن نگذرانده باشند. در دورهٔ طفولیت بازی کردن، تنها برای گذران اوقات فراغت نیست، زیرا براستی سراسر دوران کودکی را میتوان اوقات فراغت نامید، اوقاتی که بی‌دغدغهٔ مسؤولیتهای سنگین زندگی می‌گذرد و خالی از جنجال روزگار بلوغ و بزرگسالی سپری میشود. چه بسا که بازی کردن سهمی بسزا در رشد فکری و بلوغ عاطفی اطفال داشته باشد و آنانرا برای دورانی که زندگی از جنبهٔ جدی‌تر دنبال میشود، آماده سازد. بدین ترتیب بازی کردن هم مقتضای بی‌خیالی و بی‌خبری دورهٔ کودکی است و هم آزمونی ابتدائی برای مراحل بعدی زندگی انسانی.

ناگفته پیداست که در مرحله‌های بعدی حیات به ناچار مقتضیات زندگی آدمی دگرگون میشود و امور دیگری جانشین شرایط دوران کودکی می‌گردد. اما گاهی اتفاق میافتد که کسانی همچنان در عوالم طفولیت باقی میمانند. گوئی خوش نمیدارند که حال و هوای کودکی خود را که به آن خو گرفته‌اند رها کنند. پنداری روا نمی‌بینند که سیر و گشتی در عوالم بزرگان و بزرگتران کنند، و این خود محملی دارد:

بعضی را زندگی در جهان بزرگترها سخت دشوار می‌آید چه که آن را مملو از ناروائی و ناجوانمردی و تزویر و دروغ می‌یابند. در واقع فرار اینان به عالم کودکان جز به این معنی نیست که در جهان بزرگان نشان "بزرگی" ندیده‌اند. بدین سبب صلاح کار را در آن دانسته‌اند که با دوران طفولیت عهدی پایدار ببندند و عطای بزرگان را به لقایشان ببخشند!

گروهی دیگر تاب شرایط عوالم بالغان را ندارند. هنگامیکه انسان پا به مرحلهٔ بلوغ می‌نهد بر اوست که ناملایمات را بر خود هموار سازد، به تلاش و تکاپو بپردازد، درد و داغ ناشی از تکامل و ارتقاء را بپذیرد و تلخی تجربیات را که لازمهٔ پختگی است تاب آورد تا محنت کشیده و رنج برده، به گنج نائل آید. اما همه کس را تحمل اینهمه ناگواری و مرارت میسر نیست. ناچار عده‌ای بازپس میروند و رو به عالم و دورانی می‌آورند که در آن مقاصد و اهداف زودتر و آسانتر به دست آید. بدین قرار ایشان یا دست به دامن مستی و بیخبری میشوند و میگساری و عشرت پیش می‌گیرند یا چون اطفال خردسال به لعب و لاابالیگری می‌پردازند و همانگونه که ساعاتی را هنگام کودکی در زیر میزها به بازی می‌گذراندند، به روزگار بزرگسالی در پشت میزها به قمار مینشینند و نقد پر بهای عمر را به هدر میدهند و پاک می‌بازند.

قمار یکی از آفات بزرگ سلامت روانی و اخلاقی است. شاید بزرگترین صدمه‌ای که قمار بر روان آدمی وارد می‌آورد همانا ایجاد اعتیاد باشد. اعتیاد بر دو گونه است: جسمانی و روانی. اعتیاد جسمانی وقتی حاصل میشود که بدن آدمی به استفاده از ماده‌ای چنان عادت کند که بدون استفاده از آن کاملاً رنجور و ناتوان و حتی بیمار شود. اعتیاد روانی با بدن انسانی رابطه‌ای ندارد، ولی عادت به انجام کاری چنان شدت می‌گیرد که ترک آن بیرون از حدود توانائی انسان به نظر میرسد. بسیاری از صاحبنظران اعتیاد روانی را خطرناک‌تر از اعتیاد جسمانی دانسته و ترک آن را دشوارتر از ترک این شمرده‌اند.

قمار موجب حصول اعتیاد شدید روانی است. بی‌سبب نیست که قماربازان یا هرگز ترک اعتیاد نمی‌گویند و یا به دشواری و با تحمل مرارت بسیار این عادت خانمانسوز هستی برانداز را از سر میافکنند.

از جمله زیانهای اخلاقی قمار ایجاد حرص و طمع در خلق و خوی افراد است. حرص مانند پرده‌ای بر چشم آدمی فرود می‌آید و از موجودی خود بین و خود خواه و خودپرست میسازد. دامنهٔ این خودپرستی تا آنجا گسترش می‌یابد که مناعت طبع و غرور مشروع انسان از میان میرود و زاری و زبونی و خودفروشی جایگزین آن میشود. بسیارند قماربازانی که بر سر این سودا سوخته و حتی خانه و خانوادهٔ خود را نیز فروخته‌اند.

شاید لازم به تذکر نباشد که اهل بهاء بر طبق ‎نمایط نصایح‎ قلم اعلی باید از این بلا برکنار بمانند. چه که ایشان با دوران کودکی پیوند ابدی نبسته‌اند. از گرانی بار مسؤولیتهای عالم بزرگسالی و حل مشکلات آن هراسی ندارند. هر چند بیداد و آز و تباهکاری و ریا و فساد را در جهان به عیان می‌بینند اما مأیوس نمی‌نشینند، زانوی غم در بغل نمی‌گیرند، از تلاش و کوشش باز نمی‌مانند و پناه امن عالم کودکی را جوابگوی مشکلات جهان بشری نمیدانند. اعتیاد را زشت میشمارند و از آن روی می‌گردانند. آز و طمع را دشمن میدارند و از حرص دوری میگزینند زیرا مولایشان فرموده: "حرص را باید گذاشت." بهائیان مأمورند که در جمیع امور از دیگران "ممتاز" باشند. باید تفاوتی کیفی مابین آنان و سایر مردمان باشد. علم و ثروت، مقام و شهرت، هنجار و رفتار بهائیان از مقوله‌ای دیگر است. بهائی میتواند توانگر باشد بشرط آنکه ثروت او در راه رفاه و خدمت به مردم مصروف شود. بهائی میتواند و باید علم بیاموزد مشروط بر اینکه دانش او در خدمت آموزش و آسایش بشریت درآید. بهائی با اینکه از اتصاف به حرص و آز تحذیر شده، میتواند حتی "حریص" باشد بشرط آنکه حرص او برای کسب فضائل و کمالات انسانی باشد. بدین ترتیب بهائی، علیرغم حرمت قمار، میتواند قمار کند مشروط بر اینکه نقد گرانبهای عمر را بر سر سودای عشق ببازد.

پاکبازی بهائیان در عشقبازی آنان با جمال کبریاست. در این عشقبازی روحانی به قمار جان می‌پردازند و آنجا که جانباختن در ظاهر ممکن نشود به نثار عمر در راه تحصیل رضای دوست روی می‌آوردند. و امروز رضای دوست در ایجاد وحدت و اتحاد در عالم انسانی و انفاق جان و مال بر سر تحقق آنست. در این مقام کلام مبارک مظهر امر خدا اهل انصاف را کفایت است:

"سبحانهُ سبحانه! از او میطلبم عباد خود را مویّد فرماید بر دو امر بزرگ بعد از عرفان ذات مقدّس و استقامت بر آن: عبراتیکه از خشیةالله نازل شود، قطرات دمی که در سبیلش بر خاک ریزد. این دو امر لازال لدی‌العرش مقبول بوده و هست، و چون ثانی نهی شد ثالثی بر مقام آن نشست و آن انفاق عمر است در سبیل شناسائی او: بشناسد و بشناساند."

چون در آخرین دقائق صفحه بندی صفحات فارسی، دستخط معهد اعلی بدستمان رسید و درج ترجمهٔ آن بر سایر مطالب اولویت داشت، ناچار ادامهٔ مقالهٔ "وحدت، نژاد و بهائیان ایرانی" در شمارهٔ بعد منتشر خواهد شد. [Page 22]رفتار و کردارش آشکار بود. هم از ارباب قلم بود و هم از اصحاب عمل و قدم. در طریق خدمت به امر جمال قدم هر گونه زحمت و الم را تاب آورد تا عاقبت طومار سرنوشت خویش به خون و دم خویشتن رقم زد و به عنایت معهد اعلی در زمره شهیدان علم شد. سخن کوتاه و به همین بسنده کنیم که بگوئیم جامعیتی عظیم داشت.

چهره‌پوشان زبون و بی‌هویتی که از مواجهه با سیمای آدمیت بیمناک بودند، قصد آن کردند که لطمه‌ای جبران ناپذیر بر جامعه بهائی وارد آورند و با ربودن دکتر داودی، در روز ۲۰ آبانماه سال ‎۱۹۵۸ ۱۹۷۹‎، شعله پر تاب و توان هستیش را بورطه خاموشی بکشانند، و کشاندند. اما به عرصه فراموشی؟ هرگز. این بود که بهائیان ایران در رضوان سال ۱۳۵۹ با آنکه بیش از پنج ماه از ناپدید شدن دکتر داودی میگذشت، دوباره او را به عضویت محفل ملی انتخاب کردند. یاد گرامیش جاودانه زنده باد!

موفقیت تبلیغی یک نوجوان بهائی

BAHA’I YOUTH TEACHES THE FAITH

در تابستان امسال وقایع جالبی در مشرق‌الاذکار امریکا و دفتر محفل ملی رخ داد. در اینجا به شرح مختصر یکی از آنها می‌پردازیم.

آقای ژیان خداداد که نوجوانی ۱۳ ساله و ساکن شهرکی در شمال شیکاگو بنام وینتکا Winnetka میباشد، داوطلب شده بود که در دوران تعطیلات تابستان بعنوان راهنما در مشرق‌الاذکار خدمت نماید. یک روز بعد از اینکه برنامه اسلاید معرفی امر مبارک تمام شد، خانمی که علاقه‌اش به تعالیم بهائی جلب شده بود سوالاتی عنوان نمود که آقای خداداد بخوبی پاسخ گفت و با ملاحظه علاقه خانم مبتدی، مطالعه جزوات و کتب چندی را توصیه نمود. چون آن خانم نیز دوره تعطیلات خود را می‌گذراند، قادر بود تقریباً هر روز به مشرق‌الاذکار سری بزند و با مبلغ کم سن و سال بهائی به صحبت و پرس و جو درباره امر بهائی بپردازد. مبلغ نوجوان نیز هر روز با طرح سوالاتی اطمینان حاصل میکرد که مبتدی کتابها را مطالعه نموده و اطلاعات لازم را بدست آورده است. طولی نکشید که خانم مذکور به جلسات تبلیغی راه یافت و پس از مدت کوتاهی در جرگه اهل ایمان درآمد و در اولین روز بعد از تسجیل شدن راهنمای زائرین مشرق‌الاذکار شد!

امید است این قبیل موفقیتها نصیب سایر نوجوانان بهائی نیز بشود و زیور دوران ‎نوپاودگی نوپاوه گی‎ آنان گردد.

جلسه محفل روحانی ملی درباره ادغام و اختلاط

INSTITUTIONS MEET ON INTEGRATION

در روز ۲۹ آگست سال جاری محفل روحانی ملی بهائیان ایالات متحده جلسه‌ای جهت مذاکره درباره ادغام و اختلاط بهائیان ایرانی با جامعه امری امریکا تشکیل داد. در این جلسه که به پیشنهاد لجنه ملی امور احبای ایرانی/امریکائی منعقد گردیده بود، دو تن از مشاورین قاره‌ای و اعضای لجنات ملی نشر نفحات و وحدت نژاد و امور احبای ایرانی/امریکائی و جوانان و نمایندگان تعدادی از دوائر دفتر محفل روحانی ملی حضور داشتند. در این جلسه گفته شد که ادغام و اختلاط هنگامی موفقیت آمیز خواهد بود که اتحاد و هماهنگی ما بین یاران ایرانی و امریکائی حاصل شود و در عین حال خصوصیتهای فرهنگی آنان نیز محفوظ ماند. همچنین اشاره شد که کلیه موسسات بهائی و افراد احباء سهمی از این مسؤلیت را بر عهده دارند. برای تحقق این اختلاط برنامه‌هائی پیشنهاد شد که شرح اجمالی آن به قرار ذیل است:

• دعوت از بهائیان ایرانی جهت تبلیغ سرخپوستان و زردپوستان و سیاهان و افراد اسپانیولی زبان.
• تشویق یاران ایرانی و امریکائی به تشکیل جلسات تزیید معلومات درباره توقیع "ظهور عدل الهی."
• آشنا ساختن یاران ایرانی با نظامات و مقررات امری در امریکا.
• آشنا ساختن یاران ایرانی با قوانین مدنی ایالات متحده آمریکا.
• تداوم ارتباط لجنه ملی امور احبای ایرانی/امریکائی با افراد مهم در بین یاران ایرانی و امریکائی.
• اشاعه تفاهم و درک صحیح از روابط میان فرهنگهای گوناگون در بین یاران امریکائی و آموزش کیفیت این روابط به آنان.
• آشنا ساختن محافل روحانی محلی به حل مشکلاتی که ممکن است در بین یاران ایرانی حاصل گردد.

در ارتباط با معنی ادغام و اختلاط، لجنه ملی امور احبای ایرانی/امریکائی تعریفی از مفهوم وحدت در کثرت کرده بود که بر طبق آن "وحدت" عبارت خواهد بود از شناختن محیط جدید و یافتن راههائی برای انطباق با آن، قبول کردن دیگران و قبول شدن از طرف آنان. از سوی دیگر، "کثرت" عبارت خواهد بود از حفظ عناصر مفید فرهنگی و مفتخر بودن به آنها و توانائی بر ترکیب آنها با عناصر فرهنگی محیط جدید.

در این جلسه اهمیت حضور بهائیان ایرانی در میان جامعه امری ایالات متحده و سهم خطیر آنان جهت ارائه نمونه‌ای از وحدت در کثرت بازگو شد.

دومین کنفرانس سالانه لجنات ناحیه ای امور احبای ایرانی/امریکائی

2ND ANNUAL APAAC CONFERENCE

از اعضاء ۲۲ لجنه ناحیه‌ای امور احبای ایرانی/امریکائی دعوت به عمل آمده است که در دومین کنفرانس سالانه لجنات مذکور شرکت نمایند. این کنفرانس از ۸ تا ۱۱ ماه اکتبر سال جاری در دفتر محفل روحانی ملی منعقد خواهد شد. هدف از تشکیل کنفرانس مذکور مشورت و مذاکره با لجنه ملی امور احبای ایرانی/امریکائی جهت آشنائی با احتیاجات و اهداف و برنامه‌های لجنات ناحیه‌ای و تبادل نظر درباره آنهاست. شرح جزئیات کنفرانس در شماره آینده نشریه امریکن بهائی منتشر خواهد شد.

بزرگداشت هفتاد و پنجمین سالگرد سفر حضرت عبدالبهاء در یوتا

SALT LAKE CITY COMMEMORATES THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE MASTER’S VISIT

بیش از ۲۲۰ نفر در کنفرانسی که جهت بزرگداشت هفتاد و پنجمین سالگرد سفر حضرت عبدالبهاء به آمریکای شمالی در سالتلیک سیتی Salt Lake City واقع در ایالت یوتا انعقاد یافت، شرکت جستند. میهمان افتخاری در این کنفرانس ایادی امرالله جناب کالیس فدرستون Collis Featherstone بود که با ایراد نطق و صرف وقت با جوانان و نوجوانان بر رونق جلسات افزودند. چند تن از اعضای هیئت معاونت و مساعدین آنها نیز در این کنفرانس سخنرانی نمودند. خانم هدی محمودی حاضران را به تبلیغ امرالله بر طبق شیوه حضرت عبدالبهاء فراخواند و جناب ایواندر گیلمر Evander Gilmer، یکی از اعضای لجنه ملی امور احبای ایرانی/امریکائی، در دو نوبت برنامه‌های آموزشی مفیدی درباره ادغام و اتحاد یاران ارائه نمود. در شبهای کنفرانس برنامه‌های موسیقی اجرا میشد و عایدات آن به دو موسسه خیریه تقدیم گردید.

اطلاعیه لجنه ملی جوانان

ANNOUNCEMENT BY NATIONAL YOUTH COMMITTEE

در سال ۱۹۸۸ لجنه ملی جوانان ایالات متحده مسؤل برگزاری کنفرانس بین‌المللی جوانان خواهد بود. این کنفرانس که از ۳۰ ماه جون تا ۴ جولای در دانشگاه ایندیانا در بلومینگتون Bloomington منعقد خواهد شد فرصت مناسبی برای آشنائی و تبادل نظر جوانان با یکدیگر به دست خواهد داد و در عین حال شرکت در کنفرانس برای همه آزاد خواهد بود.

از یاران گرامی درخواست میشود که اگر پیشنهادهائی در مورد موضوع و شعار و برنامه‌های کنفرانس دارند با لجنه ملی جوانان تماس حاصل نمایند و لجنه را از نظریات خود آگاه سازند.

National Youth Committee Bahá’í National Center Wilmette, IL. 60091 [Page 23]

یادی از دکتر علیمراد داودی

MARTYR’S FILE

به جرأت و بی هیچ اغراقی می‌توان ادعا کرد که برای اکثر جوانان و دانشجویان بهائی جامعهٔ امری ایران، دکتر علیمراد داودی پراعتبارترین و محترم‌ترین استاد بهائی بشمار میرفت. این استاد بینظیر که حکمت و معرفت را با زیور ایمان و عمل آراسته بود به سال ۱۳۰۰ شمسی در خلخال قدم به عالم نهاد. پدر و مادرش هر دو بهائی بودند و او را در مهد تربیت امری پرورش میدادند، اما در همان اوان طفولیت پدر خود را از دست داد و در دامان مهر مادری نشو و نما نمود. دوران کودکی و نوجوانی او در شمس آباد و خلخال گذشت. چون طبیعی گوشه گیر داشت بیشتر اوقات خود را به مطالعه می‌گذراند و از این رهگذار درخت وجودش را پربار میکرد.

پس از اخذ دیپلم متوسطه در سال ۱۳۲۰ به طهران رفت و در دانشسرای عالی تربیت معلم تحصیلات مدرسی خود را در رشتهٔ تعلیم و تربیت و فلسفه ادامه داد و به مطالعهٔ ادبیات فارسی و عربی، تاریخ اسلام و ایران، مبانی تعلیم و تربیت، و اصول و مقدمات فلسفه و منطق پرداخت. دکتر داودی بعد از اخذ مدرک لیسانس، به استخدام وزارت فرهنگ درآمد و مدتی متصدی مشاغل اداری و همچنین تدریس در دبیرستانهای سنندج و زنجان گردید. در سال ۱۳۲۱، هنگامیکه در زنجان بود ازدواج کرد و از این ازدواج صاحب پنج فرزند شد. چند سال بعد، به طهران منتقل گردید و به همین اوان در دانشکدهٔ ادبیات دانشگاه طهران به ادامهٔ تحصیل پرداخت و مآلاً به اخذ درجهٔ دکتری در رشتهٔ فلسفه توفیق یافت و پس از چندی به استخدام همان دانشکده درآمد و در همان رشته به کار تدریس مشغول شد.

خدمات امری دکتر داودی از همان دوران کودکی و نوجوانی آغاز شد. در گفت و شنودی که با نشریهٔ آهنگ بدیع داشته چنین گفته: «در بچگی و نوجوانی محشور بودم و به سهم خود در کلاسها، مجامع و کنفرانسها خدماتی میکردم و همیشه هم در دامن امر بودم.»

معذلک، در سالهای برنائی چون دارای طبیعی گوشه‌گیر بوده و به تنهائی خو داشته، کمتر به فعالیتهای امری میپرداخته است. خود در این باره چنین گفته: «در دورهٔ جوانی، آن بحبوحهٔ جوانی، عنفوان جوانی، همانطور که از همه چیز برکنار بودم، در فعالیتهای امری هم زیاد سهیم نبودم و تأسفی هم که میخورم بیشتر از این لحاظ است که من در جوانی خود آنطور که لازم بود به امر خدمت نکردم.»

اما در سالهای بعد، فعالیتهای تشکیلاتی دکتر داودی با خدمت در لجنات مختلف خصوصاً لجنهٔ ملّی تصویب تألیفات و محافل روحانی محلی آغاز شد و ادامه پذیرفت تا اینکه در سال ۱۳۱ بدیع به عضویت محفل روحانی ملّی ایران انتخاب گردید و سال بعد به سمت منشی آن محفل مقدّس منصوب شد. در عین حال و علاوه بر این خدمات تشکیلاتی، وظائف مهم آموزش و پرورش جوانان بهائی را نیز به نحو احسن ایفاء مینمود. در مدرسهٔ تابستانه و جلسات تزئید معلومات به شرح و تفسیر اصول و مبانی امر بهائی میپرداخت. در کلاسهای متعدد و طویل‌المدّت آثار مبارکه‌ای چون کتاب ایقان و مفاوضات را به یاران می‌آموخت و دوستان و جوانان بهائی را از رموز و دقایق فلسفی و اخلاقی امر بهائی، و تطبیق آن اصول بر زندگی روزمرّهٔ آنان آشنا میساخت. تأسیس مؤسسهٔ عالی معارف بهائی نیز که مطابق ارادهٔ معهد اعلی جزو اهداف نقشهٔ پنجساله قرار گرفته بود، از طرف محفل ملّی ایران بر عهدهٔ دکتر داودی و جناب بدیع‌الله فرید نهاده شد. در این مؤسسه جناب دکتر داودی مسئول تدریس متون عرفانی و فلسفی اسلام مانند منطق‌الطّیر شیخ عطّار و گلشن راز شیخ محمود شبستری بود و شاگردان مؤسسه را از عمق اطلاعات و وسعت نظرش بهره‌مند میساخت.

از آنجا که در دوران دانشجوئی خوشه‌چین خرمن افاضات استادان پرمایه‌ای چون ملک‌الشّعرای بهار، فاضل تونی، دکتر محمّد باقر هوشیار، دکتر علی اکبر سیاسی و دکتر یحیی مهدوی بود و خود نیز همواره در مطالعهٔ علوم انسانی و اجتماعی و معارف گوناگون امری و تفکّر و تعمّق دربارهٔ آنها ممارست و مداومت مینمود، لاجرم کلاس درسش سرشار از بار تجارب معرفتی بود، و چون همیشه میکوشید که فارغ از جزم در عقیده سخن بگوید محضرش از عمق اندیشه و خرد دور از تعصبش حکایتی به غایت بلاغت میکرد.

کتابهائی که از زبان فرانسه بزبان فارسی برگردانده، جزوات و مقالاتی که نگاشته، حتّی متحدالمالها و بیانیه‌هائی که در سمت منشی محفل ملّی ایران مرقوم داشته، همگی حاکی از آنست که دکتر داودی از احاطهٔ کاملی بر زبان فارسی برخوردار بوده است. تحریراتش نمونهٔ گویائی از حسن ذوقش در انتخاب و ترکیب کلمات و عبارات است و این خود باعث شده که در نگارش سبکی مخصوص به خود داشته باشد و از سایر نویسندگان و فضلای بهائی متمایز گردد. این تمایز تا بدان حدّ است که با خواندن نخستین جملات و یا حتّی نام مقالاتش میتوان نویسنده را شناخت. نشر فاخرش بهرهٔ بسیار از ایجاز و سلاست و فصاحت و بلاغت برده و عاری از عیوبی چون تعقیدات لفظی و معنوی است.

بیان شفاهی دکتر داودی همان خصوصیات نوشته‌هایش را داشت جز آنکه از شرح و بسط گسترده‌تری سود میجست. نطقش مانند رودی بود که در قلّه‌های بلند ایمان از چشمه‌ساران پاک اندیشه و اعتقاد مایه میگرفت، گِل و لای تعصب و جمود را میگذاشت و به آرامی در مسیر بلاغت از پیچ و خم تدبیر و تعمق میگذشت و تشنه‌کامان را زلال حکمت و معرفت به ارمغان میآورد. اگر در بیان مطالب اشتباهی میکرد فوراً خود را متذکر میداشت و از شنوندگان عذر تقصیر میخواست.

دانش و حکمت دکتر داودی تا بدانجا رسیده بود که، عاری از هر گونه ادعائی، سلب علم از خود میکرد. حال آنکه در تاریخ آراء فلسفی و اجتماعی مطالعات دقیق کرده و به حدّ اجتهاد رسیده بود. اطلاعات گسترده‌ای در زمینهٔ تصوف و عرفان و تاریخ اسلام و ایران داشت. رموز شعر و ادب فارسی را آموخته و از تاریخ ادبیات فارسی آگاه بود. علاوه بر ترکی آذری که زبان مادریش بود، آشنائی او با زبان فرانسه و فارسی و عربی در مرزهای تبحر میگذشت و زبان انگلیسی را نیز میدانست. احاطه‌اش بر اصول و مبانی فلسفی امر مبارک کم نظیر بود و از سایر معارف امری مانند تاریخ و احکام و نظامات بهائی حظّی بسزا برده بود.

دکتر داودی عالمی عامل، متفکّری عمیق، اندیشمندی فروتن و بی ادّعا و ناطقی زبردست بود. چون اهل هیاهو و جنجال نبود به آرامی سخن میگفت و از فنون خطیبان حرفه‌ای دوری میجست. کم گوی اما سنجیده گوی بود. تا نمی‌پرسیدند نمیگفت. ریا و تظاهر بکار نمیبست. فضل‌فروشی و ظاهرسازی نمیکرد. به شعائر فرهنگی متمسک بود و رسم ادب را همواره رعایت میکرد. به جوانان بهائی عشق میورزید و بر آن بود که تا آنجا که در توان داشت برای بالا بردن سطح معلومات و کمک به تهذیب اخلاق آنان بکوشد. پند و اندرز نمیگفت ولی اگر درد دلی یا مشکلی را با او در میان میگذاشتند با دلسوزی و مهربانی گوش فرا میداد و از کمک و راهنمائی دریغ نمیورزید. ایمانی راسخ داشت و خصوصاً بعد از انقلاب اسلامی از جملهٔ بزرگترین مدافعان امر بهائی و پیروان آن در کشور مقدّس ایران بشمار میرفت. قامتی بلند، سیمائی جذاب و چشمانی گیرا داشت. نگاهش نافذ و حاکی از هوش سرشار و عمق افکارش بود. با طمأنینه سخن میگفت و صدایش آرام و مردانه بود و به دل مینشست. وقار و متانت در [Page 24]دخول مقدمه ظهور یومی است که ملل و اجناس مختلفه در اثر وقوع يك سلسله وقایع خطیره که محتملاً مصیبت‌بار و حتی بطور تقریبی نیز غیرقابل تصور می‌باشد، تقلیب و تبلیغ دسته‌جمعی شده که خود بغتةً مقام و موقع امر مبارك را متغیّر، نظم عالم را مضطرب و عدّه نفوس و قوای مادی و معنوی امر جمال قدم را هزاران بار تقویت خواهد نمود. "این همان زمانی است که اهل بهاء باید خود را برای ظهورش آماده سازند، این همان میقاتی است که فرارسیدنش را باید تسریع نمود.

در این دوره بحرانی از تاریخ بشریت، از اهل بهاء انتظار می‌رود که به مسئولیتهای مهیجه و عظیمه‌ای که چنین اتساعاتی بر عهده مؤسسات و افراد بهائی در جمیع بلاد خواهد نهاد ناظر باشند و با قلوبی سرشار از اطمینان و اعتماد به دستگیری و هدایت ید غیبی شارع امر الهی، قیامی عاشقانه نمایند. دعای این مشتاقان در اعتاب مقدسه آنست که حضرت دوست پیروانش را در جمیع اقالیم متحداً به جهدی بلیغ توفیق بخشد.

با تحیّات ابدع ابهی بیت‌العدل اعظم

حضرت عبدالبهاء در امریکا

ABDU’L-BAHA’ IN AMERICA

حضرت عبدالبهاء تقریباً سراسر ماه اکتبر سال ۱۹۱۲ را در ایالت کالیفرنیا گذراندند و شهرهای سانفرانسیسکو و اوکلند Oakland و پالوآلتو Palo Alto و برکلی Berkeley و لوس‌آنجلس را به قدوم خود آراستند. از جمله مهمترین وقایع سفر طلعت پیمان به کالیفرنیا یکی حضور مبارك در دانشگاه استانفورد Stanford بود که بنا به دعوت رئیس آن دانشگاه صورت گرفته بود. حضرت عبدالبهاء دعوت او را پذیرفتند و در حضور جمعی از استادان و دانشجویان خطابه‌ای در بیان "علم و وحدت اشیاء و قوّه خارق العاده انسانی و صلح عمومی و مدنیّت آسمانی" ادا فرمودند.

دیگر نطقی بود که در روز ۱۲ اکتبر در کنیسه اهل یهود ایراد فرمودند و در آن نطق و آن کنیسه، سوای ابلاغ امر جمال قدم به حضار، به اثبات حقانیّت حضرت مسیح و حضرت محمّد نیز پرداختند و حاضرین را به ایجاد تفاهم و آشتی فراخواندند. بفرموده مبارك:

"حضرات مسیحیان مؤمن به موسی هستند که پیغمبر بود، مسلمانها مؤمن به موسی هستند و نهایت ستایش میکنند. آیا از این ستایش مسیحیان و مسلمانان ضرری برای آنها حاصل شد؟ نه، ابداً. بلکه بالعکس از اینکه تصدیق موسی و تثبیت تورات میکنند انصاف آنها ثابت میشود. چه عیب دارد بنی اسرائیل نیز ستایش از مسیح و محمّد نمایند تا این نزاع و قتال دوهزارساله از میان برخیزد و این اختلافها و فسادها زائل شود. آنها می‌گویند موسی کلیم الله بود، چه ضرر دارد که موسویان هم بگویند مسیح روح الله و محمّد رسول الله بود تا دیگر نه نزاعی ماند نه جدالی نه حربی و نه قتالی...."

احبای سیاتل Seattle در ایالت واشنگتن و دوستان شهر پورتلند Portland در ایالت اورگان اصرار ورزیده بودند که حضرت عبدالبهاء به آن دو ایالت نیز سفری بنمایند و جان و روان تشنگان جام پیمان را سیراب فرمایند، اما به علّت طولانی بودن سفر مبارك اجرای تقاضایشان ممکن نبود. معذلك مرکز عهد با لطف و عطوفت خاص خود به کرات ذکر آنان را میفرمودند. در این مورد جناب میرزا محمود زرقانی از زبان سرکار آقا در سفرنامه مبارك چنین نگاشته:

"به سبب نرفتن من به آنجا خیلی متأثّر شده‌اند و با وجود مشاغل بی‌اختیار از راه دور برای ملاقات آمده‌اند. اگر تا پورتلند و سیاتل يك دو روز راه بود میرفتم ولی راه دور است به لوس آنجلس هم اگر محض زیارت قبر مستر چیس (Chase) نبود نمیرفتم. احبّاء همه توقّع دارند اگر بخواهم همه جا بروم سفر طولانی میشود و ممکن نیست، و الّا محبّت احبای الهی در قلبم به درجه‌ایست که راضی نمیشوم غباری بر آنها بنشیند. اگر خدا نخواسته ببینم به یکی از شماها آسیبی میرسد فوراً خود را سپر میکنم."

اما جناب تورنتون چیس Thornton Chase که نامش را حضرت مولی‌الوری یاد فرمودند اوّلین بهائی در ایالات متّحده امریکا بشمار میرود. ایشان در سال ۱۸۹۴ یعنی یکسال پس از آنکه نام جمال قدم برای نخستین بار در این اقلیم مذکور گردید، در زمره مؤمنین درآمد. چون شغل جناب چیس در سمت یکی از مدیر عاملان يك شرکت بزرگ بیمه، مستلزم مسافرت به شهرهای متعدّد بود، از سفرهای خود برای تبلیغ امر بهائی نیز مدد میجست.

در اوایل قرن حاضر هنگامیکه جامعه تازه‌پای بهائی در امریکا و کانادا مورد هجوم ناقضین و خصوصاً ابراهیم خیرالله قرار گرفته بود، عدّه‌ای از احباء راه نقض پیش گرفتند و جمعی حیران و سرگردان شده، جامعه بهائی را ترك گفتند. جناب تورنتون چیس که خود بوساطت خیرالله به امر بهائی اقبال کرده بود از جمله نفوسی بود که طوفان نقض را مقاومت نمود و باعث استقامت بسیاری از یاران گردید. ثبات و استقامت جناب چیس سبب شد که حضرت عبدالبهاء او را اوّلین بهائی امریکا قلمداد فرمایند، حال آنکه او در واقع چهارمین بهائی امریکا بود. سه نفر دیگری که پیش از او مؤمن شده بودند گردباد امتحانات را طاقت نیاوردند و به ناقضان پیمان پیوستند.

جناب چیس در روز ۲۰ سپتامبر سال ۱۹۱۲ در وقتی که حضرت عبدالبهاء در راه کالیفرنیا بودند، در شهر لوس آنجلس دیده از جهان فرو بست. صعود جناب چیس سبب گردید که مرکز پیمان بدون قرار قبلی به آن شهر سفر نمایند و بر سر تربت آن نفس مبارك حاضر شوند. حضرت ولی امرالله در لوح قرن خطاب به احبای غرب این اقدام مبارك را جهت زیارت مرقد جناب چیس بعنوان یکی از هفت اقدام مهم طلعت پیمان در سفر به آمریکای شمالی محسوب داشته‌اند. شرح این زیارت در سفرنامه حضرت عبدالبهاء چنین مرقوم گشته:

"... پس از اوراد و اذکار عزم دیدار مزار حضرت مستر چیس فرمودند... تراموای... بکنار قبرستان رسید. هیکل اطهر پیاده شدند، رو به قبر مستر چیس با نهایت سکون و سکوت مشی میفرمودند و چون به آن مزار پر انوار رسیدند، بدون سؤال ایستادند و از آن محلّ و سبزی و خرّمی اشجار و چمن تعریف فرمودند. چند دقیقه بعد مقابل تربت آن نفس نفیس ایستاده، دسته‌های گل گرفتند و روی آن خاك پاك چیدند، به مهر و محبّتی که ناظرین حیران ماندند. پس در مقابل آن مرقد رو به عرش مقدّسه ایستاده مشغول به تلاوت زیارتنامه جمال ابهی شدند و جمیع احباء در عقب متوجّه و متبتّل بودند. پس از زیارتنامه مبارکه شروع به مناجات عربی در طلب مغفرت آن متصاعد الی‌الله فرمودند و آخر، شرح ایّام حیات و خدمات و ثبوت و استقامت آن مؤمن بالله بیان نمودند و حین مراجعت، جبین مبین را بر آن قبر ‎معتّبر معتبر‎ گذارده بوسیدند به حالتی که دیده صادقان گریان شد...."

حقوق‌الله

HUQUQU’LLAH

از دوستان عزیز مستدعی است که تقدیمی‌های حقوق‌الله را در وجه Bahá’í Huququ’llah Trust و به نشانی یکی از امنای حقوق‌الله ارسال فرمایند.

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

ضمناً برای کسب اطلاعات و دریافت نشریات مربوط به حقوق‌الله میتوان با یکی از امنای حقوق و یا با دفتر مؤسسه حقوق‌الله مکاتبه نمود.

Office of Secretariat Bahá’í Huququ’llah Trust 21300 Avalon Dr. Rocky River, OH. 44116 [Page 25]

پیام‌های بیت‌العدل اعظم الهی

MESSAGES FROM THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE

ترجمهٔ دستخط بیت‌العدل اعظم مورخ ۳۱ آگست سال ۱۹۸۷

پیروان اسم اعظم در جمیع بلاد ملاحظه فرمایند

ای یاران عزیز

قریب یکصد سال پیش جمال اقدس ابهی در حین مشی در کوه مقدس الهی، لوح مبارک کرمل را که منشور مرکز جهانی امر مبارک محسوب میگردد، نازل فرمودند و بدین ترتیب مقدّمات بنای مدینهٔ موعود ملکوت الهی را بر بسیط غبراء آماده و مهیا نمودند.

پیروان اسم اعظم در طیّ سالهای متمادی تضییقات و انتصارات، و ایذاء و اذیت و رهائی از قیود تعصب و حمیت، به نشر پیام حضرتش در اقصی نقاط کرهٔ ارض موفق، و به تأسیس نظم بدیع جهان آرایش مؤید و به انتشار پیام شفابخش الهی جهت درمان جمیع آلام و علل عالم بشری مفتخر گشتند. بلایای وارده بر عشاق جمالش در کشور مقدس ایران، در هشت سال گذشته، اعتنای جهانی را که در فراش غفلت خفته بود جلب نمود و امر مقدس الهی را مرکز توجه اهل عالم قرار داد.

حضرت عبدالبهاء با تحمل زحمات لاتحصی در نقطه‌ای که آب بزرگوارش معین فرموده بود، مقام مبارک حضرت نقطهٔ اولی را در کوه کرمل برافراخت و هیکل الطف اعلی را در قلب آن مستقرّ ساخت و بدین ترتیب به تأسیس مرکزی روحانی با اهمیتی بینهایت توفیق یافت.

حضرت ولی عزیز امرالله بر طبق همان فرمان الهی آن ضریح مقدس را بیاراست و در پوشش صدفی بدیع بنهاد و سپس در ظلّ جناح محافظش به تأسیس مرکز اداری امر مبارک مبادرت ورزید. این مرکز اداری مرکب از پنج ساختمان با سبك معماری موزون و هماهنگ خواهد بود که در حول قوس وسیعی واقع گردیده که در مرکز آن قوس، مراقد مطهرهٔ حضرت ورقهٔ مبارکهٔ علیا، و حضرت غصن اعظم و حضرت نوّاب، اُمّ حضرت عبدالبهاء قرار دارد. اولین این پنج ساختمان، محفظهٔ آثار بین‌المللی است که بنای آن در زمان حیات حضرت ولی عزیز امرالله اتمام یافت. دومین ساختمان، دارالتشریع بیت‌العدل اعظم است که هم اکنون در نقطهٔ علیای آن قوس قرار دارد. تهیهٔ طرحهای سه بنای باقیمانده که از جملهٔ اهداف نقشهٔ هفت ساله بود در طیّ آن نقشه صورت پذیرفت و در حال حاضر جزئیات آن در شرف تکمیل است.

همانگونه که در پیام مورخ ۳۰ آوریل سال ۱۹۸۷ خاطرنشان گردید، راه بنای سه ساختمان باقیماندهٔ مرکز بین‌المللی اداری، برای عالم بهائی هموار گردیده و باید بدون تأخیر و با عزمی راسخ در این سبیل قدم نهاد. پنج مشروع ذیل که بهم ارتباط نزديك دارند در خور توجه میباشند: بنای سه ساختمان باقیماندهٔ قوس مذکور، و علاوه بر آن طبقات باغهای حول مقام اعلی و قسمت الحاقی دارالآثار بین‌المللی. شرح اجمالی ذیل دربارهٔ هر يك از این پنج مشروع تا حدودی اهمیت آنها را برای امر مبارک نمودار خواهد ساخت.

طبقات باغهای مقام اعلی

حضرت عبدالبهاء برای توسعهٔ اماکن جبل کرمل نوزده طبقه باغ در نظر گرفته بودند که از دامنهٔ کوه تا قلّهٔ آن امتداد خواهد یافت. ۹ طبقه، به طبقه‌ای متصل میشود که بر روی آن مقام اعلی قرار گرفته، و ۹ طبقه در بالای آن قرار خواهد گرفت. حضرت ولی امرالله کراراً به این نقشه اشاره میفرمودند و خود ساختمان مقدماتی ۹ طبقهٔ تحتانی را که مشتمل بر راه ورود به مقام اعلی از خیابان مرکزی محلّهٔ سابق صلیبیون آلمانی (German Templar Colony) میباشد، تکمیل فرمودند.

دارالتبلیغ بین‌المللی

دارالتبلیغ بین‌المللی مقرّ مؤسسه‌ای خواهد بود که اختصاصاً دو وظیفهٔ حفظ و صیانت امرالله و تبلیغ دین‌الله بدان تفویض گردیده است. این مؤسسه که حضرت ولی امرالله در آثار خود بدان اشاره فرموده‌اند، در ماه جون سال ۱۹۷۳ تأسیس گردید و از این طریق خدمات ایادی امرالله ساکن در ارض اقدس به ثمر رسید و امکان آن فراهم گردید تا وظائفی که بدان مؤسسه اعطاء گردیده در زمان آینده امتداد یابد.

مرکز مطالعات نصوص (دارالتحقیق)

این ساختمان، مقرّ مؤسسهٔ محققین بهائی و بمنزلهٔ توسعه و شکوفائی دارالتحقیق کنونی مرکز جهانی خواهد بود و بیت‌العدل اعظم را در مورد مراجعه به آثار مبارکه و استفاده از آنها مساعدت خواهد نمود و به ترجمه و تحشیهٔ نصوص امر مبارک خواهد پرداخت.

ساختمان دارالآثار بین‌المللی (محفظه آثار)

بیت‌العدل اعظم مصمّم گردیده که بنائی الحاقی در طبقهٔ تحتانی محفظهٔ آثار جهت گسترش دفتر مرکزی دارالآثار که دائماً در حال اتساع میباشد، در سمت غربی آن عمارت در مرکز جهانی بنا نماید. وظیفهٔ حفظ و نگاهداری نصوص و آثار مبارکه و مدارک تاریخی امرالله به این مؤسسه تفویض گردیده است.

کتابخانه بین‌المللی بهائی

این کتابخانه خزانهٔ مرکزی کلیهٔ آثاری است که راجع به امر مبارک نوشته شده و منبع اصلی اطلاعات برای استفادهٔ جمیع مؤسسات مرکز جهانی در مواضیع مختلفهٔ مربوط به امرالله و اوضاع عالم بشری میباشد. وظائف آن باید در دهه‌های آینده توسعه یابد: این کتابخانه بصورت مرکز مؤثری برای اقسام علوم و معارف و هستهٔ مرکزی مؤسسات عالیهٔ تحقیقات و اکتشافات علمی در خواهد آمد.

برآورد دقیق مخارج این مشروعات در حال حاضر غیرممکن به نظر میرسد. آنچه که در حال حاضر میتوان گفت اینست که در آیندهٔ نزديك دو هدف باید متحقق شود: یکی فراهم کردن سریع يك اندوختهٔ ۵۰ میلیون دلاری است تا بر مبنای آن، نقشه‌های بنای این مشروعات به نحو واقع بینانه‌ای به مرحلهٔ اجرا درآید، و دیگری تأمین درآمد سالانه‌ای بالغ بر ۲۰ تا ۲۵ میلیون دلار برای صندوق بین‌المللی در ده سال آینده است. به تدریج که عملیات اجرائی آغاز و مناقصات و قراردادها امضاء شود، مخارج را میتوان دقیقاً تعیین نمود و اطلاعات بیشتری اعلان خواهد گردید.

وظائف عظیمهٔ بنای طبقات و تزئین باغچه‌بندی حول و حوش آنها و بنای ساختمانهای باقیماندهٔ قوس، هیئت و ترکیب عظیم‌تری برای مرکز جهانی ایجاد خواهد نمود که قادر به رفع حوائج قرون آتیه و متناسب با رشد و توسعهٔ بی‌سابقهٔ جامعهٔ بهائی که بفرمودهٔ حضرت ولی عزیز امرالله در انتظار آنیم، خواهد بود.

جامعهٔ بهائی هم اکنون شاهد نتائج حاصله از قوای مودعهٔ روحانیه‌ای که با اتمام بنای دارالتشریع منتشر گشته، بوده و حرکت جدیدی را که تکمیل آن بنا در مورد پیشرفت امر الهی باعث آمده ملاحظه نموده است. چه کسی میداند که در اثر تحقق متوالی هر يك از مراحل این مشروع عظیم چه تحولاتی رخ خواهد نمود؟ سرعت و شدّت تقدم و پیشرفت امر مبارک همواره یکسان نیست، بلکه حضیض و اوجی متناسب با تناوب ابتلاآت و انتصارات دارد.

حضرت ولی امرالله در توقیعی که در تاریخ ۱۸ جولای سال ۱۹۵۳ در ماههای اولیهٔ جهاد کبیر اکبر صادر گردیده، در ارتباط با احتیاج حیاتی به "دخول و الحاق دائمی نفوس جدیده به جیش بطی‌الحرکه ولکن دائم‌التقدم رب‌الجنود" بر اثر فعالیتهای تبلیغی، میفرمایند: این دخول و الحاق "ظهور یومی را بشارت میدهد و تسریع مینماید که بفرمودهٔ حضرت عبدالبهاء شاهد دخول دسته جمعی مردم از اجناس و ملل مختلفه در ظلّ لوای امرالله خواهد بود."

عالم بهائی در قارهٔ افریقا و آسیا و امریکای مرکزی و جنوبی و جزائر محیط اعظم شاهد ظهور یوم مذکور بوده است. ولکن در نقشهٔ جدید یابد دخول دسته‌جمعی ناس در ظلّ امرالله باید ازدیاد یابد و به سایر ممالک تسری جوید چه که حضرت ولی امرالله در همان توقیع مذکور میفرمایند: "این [Page 26]

Summer brings volunteer help, number of splendid programs to Bahá’í House of Worship

Keyvan Peymani, a Bahá’í fourth grade student from Brookhaven, New York, won the 1987 Creative Writing Contest in his grade for poetry. His work was published in the Creative Writing Journal of the Suffolk Reading Association, an affiliate of the New York State Reading Association. Keyvan and his family were guests June 3 at an awards dinner at which he read his prize-winning entry.

The summer months held lots of joy and surprises at the Bahá’í House of Worship.

First and foremost among the bounties were the Summer Youth Volunteers including 10 who had signed up in advance and traveled some distance to help out in the office and with guiding.

Our most grateful thanks go to Sheri Jaleh Dashtizadeh (Texas); Sheri Somerby, Saba Farzaneh, Kelinda Rutan-Jorgensen (California); Shida Botshekan (New York); Becky Rouhi (Massachusetts); Maryam Mahmoodzadeh (Georgia); Naveed Dehghani (Canada); and Leila Rassekh (Alabama).

One local youth (Jian Khodadad of Winnetka) also donated his summer to the House of Worship.

He not only served as an excellent guide but brought a well-deepened new believer into the Faith.

We also thank the many other youth who “stopped by” to help in many ways and stayed as long as possible.

In June, Race Unity Day at the House of Worship featured prayers for unity in four languages by area children; a talk, “A Noble Challenge to the Next Generation” by Clayton Taylor of Glencoe, Illinois; and special music written especially for the occasion by composer/arranger John Barnes of California.

Another summer highlight was the Special Visit Program that brought together about 20 adults and many children over the Fourth of July weekend.

Their visit was enjoyed by all at the National Center, and the comments of the visitors made all efforts seem even more worthwhile to the staff.

Rounding out the summer were a program on teaching the Chinese, presented by Jene Bellows of nearby Skokie; a number of weddings (with good teaching opportunities, as most were between non-Bahá’ís); courses in Esperanto given through the Esperanto Society in Chicago; and meetings on guiding and the new House of Worship guidelines.

As a special treat, we were privileged to host receptions following talks by Glenford E. Mitchell, a member of the Universal House of Justice and former secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly, and the Hand of the Cause of God Collis Featherstone.

Please join us at the House of Worship as volunteer guides or office staff. Be a part of the joy, excitement and other bounties of serving our beloved Mother Temple of the West.

Two Bahá’í children, 11-year-old Saba Firoozi (left) and 10-year-old Errol Doris (second from right) presented Bahá’í talks June 16 to the Rotary Lighthouse Club of Evanston, Illinois. Both children spoke of world peace and of the significance of the 75th anniversary of the laying of the corner-stone of the Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette. Another Bahá’í, nine-year-old Juanita Doris (second from left) read a prayer. Pictured with the youngsters is their public speaking teacher, Knight of Bahá’u’lláh Gayle Woolson of Evanston.

Guides’ remarks reflect joy, bounty of serving at Mother Temple of West

For the past three months we here at the Bahá’í House of Worship have experienced a tremendous turn-out of enthusiastic visitors, some who came for the first time and others who returned for personal, spiritual reasons.

It is such an amazing experience to converse with the many guests from foreign lands as well as those from surrounding communities and states. But we find it somewhat difficult to try to talk to and welcome guests when there is so little time to spend with each one.

We’re sure that those of you who have guided here have experienced the same situation (we want to personally welcome each and every guest, but there are so many of them and so few of us that we miss many chances to share this wondrous Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh).

So now we are once again extending the privilege and opportunity to the Bahá’ís at large to come and serve as guides at the House of Worship.

Here are a few remarks that our guides who served in the upstairs auditorium entrance way have shared with us about their impressions of the guests who visit the Temple:

“It has been so long since I’ve guided up here that I’ve almost forgotten how. Delightful time at garden teaching last night—60 seekers! And not bad tonight. Many visitors, including a delightful young man seeking some religion in his life. We had a wonderful, in-depth chat.”

“It’s been really lovely reaping some of the great benefits of being a Bahá’í. My niece and I have been so peaceful and content to meet the few smiling people who have come to admire this beautiful House of Worship. Thank you, God, for this privilege.”

“A beautiful sunny day—lots of visitors from so many lands! It is a blessing to be able to guide, host or be a hostess, no matter what the weather! Thank you so much, Bahá’u’lláh, for the privilege.”

“There was a fine steady stream of visitors. Some were deeply touched; deep questions most sincerely asked.”

“Had a very nice talk with a young lady from Vienna, Austria. She said, ‘Everything is so beautiful!’”

“Beautiful day—two wedding parties, one cotillion group here to take pictures on the grounds. I am grateful to live close enough to the House of Worship to make a visit at least once a month.”

“My first time ‘upstairs.’ Wonderful! So many faces, all colors, ages, backgrounds. ...Nice attendance at the 3 o’clock service. Several inquiries about a devotional service, and each was interested in attending one in the future.”

“Often people come here on a ‘treasure hunt’ and ask for clues. I told them today the whole House of Worship is a treasure. They just looked back—speechless. It was a good guiding day.”

“Hot, hot! But the cannas, glads and roses are beautiful as usual. As fragrant as, nay, more than, perfume.”

“The nice breeze is giving me the strength to guide upstairs. I just met a fellow from Iraq and we talked about peace. I am from Iran ... and as you know, there is a fight between Iraq and Iran right now.”

“Greeted many nice people.”

“This is the first time I’ve guided in two and one-half years, a period of intense testing that tried my faith. I am so grateful for God’s great mercy and compassion that I have been allowed again to serve at this most sacred spot. It was easy for me to take the gift of recognition of Bahá’u’lláh for granted. When personal tests came I was very shaken. I find, however, that the All-Loving never took His Hand off of me. So gently, so lovingly, He has brought me back to serve His Cause in my own way according to my own abilities, however limited they may be. ...”

“Praise be to God for a beautiful afternoon—many visitors; wonderful and understanding people who showed great interest.”

After reading about only a few of the many happy experiences one can encounter at the House of Worship, we hope you will be inspired to guide and gather in the bounties that come with serving.

Can you imagine the fun and excitement we anticipate in the future with all the many people who will be attracted to this wonderful and beautiful Revelation? Come join us and get in on the fun!

The Bahá’í community of Round Rock, Texas, took part July 10-11 in the city’s Frontier Days celebration with a booth on the theme of peace and this float. Free balloons and ‘Wage Peace’ posters were handed out. The booth drew visitors of all ages who picked up literature on peace, inter-racial marriage and other topics.

Yellow Rose

from page 7

were invited to compete in a volleyball tournament, but were unable to do so, as it took place after the project was over.

A major service that was performed and which had a powerful impact was the replacement of a table that was broken during a previous Health Care Fair. The people on the Reservation hadn’t asked for its replacement, but they were pleasantly surprised and very appreciative when it arrived.

A Unity Feast, held at the ‎Communtiy Community‎ Center in Livingston, was among the highlights of the project. Bahá’ís from nearby towns were invited, and one family from Indian Springs joined the celebration with the 30 others who were present.

During this time the District Teaching Committee members received word of the death of David Villaseñor who had visited the Reservation in the mid-’70s, done a sand painting of the tribal symbol, and rendered a spiritual interpretation of it. The sand painting now hangs in the museum section of the Reservation gift shop.

On July 26, the District Teaching Committee decided to dedicate the teaching work of the Yellow Rose to Mr. Villaseñor’s memory. Permission was sought to hold a memorial service, and this was done the following Sunday.

Among the 25 friends at the service was 98-year-old Lee Calip of Livingston. Also attending were two members of the tribe. As a part of the memorial, the movie “Sands of Time” was shown.

The project was originally planned to last for a month; however, at the beginning of the third week the project director became so ill that she had to fly home to recover. After a few days the project was ended when a replacement could not be found.

Even though Yellow Rose was cut short, much good came from it.

For three weeks the District Teaching Committee had the use of a borrowed van and station wagon. When the owner of the station wagon learned of the great need for a vehicle at the Amoz Gibson Project in South Dakota, he offered it to them, provided they would come and get it.

Also, instead of trying to store a quantity of food left over from the Yellow Rose project, the Teaching Committee decided to donate it to the Amoz Gibson Project which could make immediate use of it. Both the food and station wagon were picked up within a week.

Everyone shares the love at the Yellow Rose, because we are living the “Spirit of the Roses.”

The effort this summer opened so many doors that at its most recent meeting, the District Teaching Committee decided to carry out several weekend service projects in preparation for next summer’s campaign.

The first such weekend was September 25-27 as a part of American Indian Heritage Week.

By the way, if anyone would like to join the Yellow Rose, the dates next summer are June 5-26. [Page 27]

Growth

from page 4

Six workshop sessions offered a total of 26 workshop topics from which to choose. Among them:

Practical Steps to Consolidation; Goal Setting and Objectives Management; Consultation Committees and Growth; Setting Up Traveling Teaching Circuits; Working with Groups and Isolated Believers; Approaching the Most Challenging Issue; Organizing Children’s Classes; Teaching Chinese; Teaching Projects; and Setting Extension Teaching Goals.

To overcome any conflicts in scheduling or interests, many of the workshops were offered more than once.

Conference participants represented diverse cultural groups and ages. The oldest, 91-year-old Mabel Taylor, became a Bahá’í in 1939. One of the youngest, 13-year-old Nabil Yazdani of Surinam, is the youngest assistant to an Auxiliary Board member.

The central theme that emerged from the conference was a “unity of vision”—that of adults and youth, Spiritual Assemblies, committees and individuals working together with unified objectives based on the sacred Writings and not on individual ideas.

A critical objective will be effecting a balance between expansion and consolidation in teaching efforts, with the understanding that the role of the individual in teaching is essential and that the use of the Creative Word in deepening is paramount.

The speakers collectively supported this vision, each of them presenting a different aspect of it and building upon remarks by the previous speakers.

Dr. Henderson, for instance, pointed out that one of the reasons we had not been teaching as much as we could in the past is that the relatively small size of our communities has been “comfortable.”

Counselor Harris, taking his cue from this, later remarked, “Being comfortable has nothing to do with the Bahá’í Faith.”

And Dr. Brady then described how she had learned to ignore anxiety and discomfort in order to serve the Faith most effectively.

Other participants also rallied together behind a unified vision, picking up on the term “Fourth Epoch Thinking” introduced in the opening address and speaking of “Fourth Epoch Teaching.”

One of them defined the new term as “an emanation formed by the history of our precious Faith, uttered through the sacred Writings, stained by the sacred blood of the martyrs, and inspiring all the believers through the Six Year Plan.”

Fourth Epoch Teaching, it was proposed, is teaching that is deeply grounded in the Writings, dependent on each of us as individual Bahá’ís, yet drawing upon the remarkable spiritual strength given to us through the sacrifices of the martyrs.

It was strongly felt that this Fourth Epoch Teaching, as exemplified in achievements during the 189 Days of Victory in the “Spirit of the Roses” at the beginning of the Six Year Plan, would bring about the rapid expansion of the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh.

On the closing day of the conference, Mrs. Delahunt, the secretary of the National Teaching Committee, who, like so many of those involved with the conference, hadn’t been getting much sleep for several consecutive nights, marveled at her ability to get out of bed early that morning and travel to the conference site for dawn prayers at 6:30 a.m.

“I realized that the reason I could do this,” she told the gathering, “was because I wanted to be with you.

“I am awed by who you are and by the potential of what we can do together.”

Mrs. Delahunt was one of many who felt that the Conference on Growth could truly mark the turning point toward the “universal, rapid and massive growth of the Cause of God” referred to by the Universal House of Justice.

The possibility was voiced by Dr. Henderson, reiterated by Counselors Brady and Harris, and echoed by countless other conference participants.

Friends should use caution, wisdom when discussing ‘world conference’

The following letter to a Bahá’í in the U.S., dated June 17, 1987, was written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice by the Office of the Secretariat in Haifa.

Dear Bahá’í Friend,

The Universal House of Justice read with keen interest your letter of 30 March 1987 reporting the efforts being exerted by Bahá’ís in your area to study the Bahá’í literature on peace. We have been asked to convey its reply to your questions.

The House of Justice has noted that as a result of the dissemination of “The Promise of World Peace,” a Senator has agreed to submit a “proposed” resolution in the Washington State Legislature and that, as you say, the “whole situation here with state resolutions and the need for citizens ‎to-write to write‎ in support of them is getting out of hand.”

While the Bahá’í community should welcome any spontaneous actions on the part of legislators to respond to the urgent call issued in the peace statement, the friends should be very wise in determining their actions under such circumstances.

They should consult their Spiritual Assemblies, local and, if necessary, National, for this is an area of activities in which personal judgment is not sufficient.

It is not advisable for Bahá’í institutions or individuals to initiate actions designed to prod government leaders to urge their governments or the leaders of other governments to convene the world conference called for by Bahá’u’lláh and echoed in “The Promise of World Peace.”

Two points should be borne in mind in this regard:

(1) Because of the political gravity of the decisions implied by this call and the differing political attitudes which it evokes, such actions on the part of the Bahá’í community would embroil the friends in partisan politics. There is quite a difference between identifying, as does the peace statement, the need for a convocation of world leaders and initiating the political processes toward its realization.

(2) In the writings of the Faith (e.g., the closing passages of The Promised Day Is Come), it is clear that the establishment of the Lesser Peace, of which the conference

See PEACE page 32

Above: Gene Andrews, a member of the National Teaching Committee, addresses the Conference on Growth. Below: A part of the audience of nearly 300 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Lincolnwood, Illinois.

Peyam Barghassa, a Bahá’í youth from Asheville, North Carolina, was among the top 20 seniors in his graduating class this year at Asheville High School and was honored with his parents at a banquet hosted by the school board. Peyam, who moved with his parents and sister to Asheville from New York City in 1980, has received a scholarship to attend North Carolina State University in Raleigh. He also received an award for his performance in his Spanish IV class and a presidential “Academic Fitness” award. He has ‎served a chairman served as chairman‎ of the Asheville area youth group and helped plan Feasts and holy days for the community.

Pictured are Bahá’í youth from all over Washington state and from Alaska and Colorado who took part June 19-20 in a service project in Bellingham. After working for six hours in a clean-up effort at Lake Padden, the youngsters cooled down with a game of soccer. The project was set up by Mojgan Sami during a regional youth conference in Oregon.

new from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust

Capture the Spirit of the Dedication of The Mother Temple of India

Four cassettes filled with more than five hours of material

• Talks by Three Hands of

the Cause, a Counselor and the Temple architect

• One tape of the music consecrated

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Set of all four tapes $29⁹⁵ Music tape sold separately $9⁹⁵

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Greenbelt finds membership in clergy group rewarding

SOC/ECONOMIC

On June 7, James Sturdivant, a member of the Bahá’í community of Greenbelt, Maryland, addressed some 200 students, parents and staff during graduation exercises at Greenbelt’s Eleanor Roosevelt High School.

The Greenbelt Clergy Association, which has hosted the service since 1980 and each year designates one of its members to present the main address, asked Mr. Sturdivant to be this year’s speaker.

The Spiritual Assembly of Greenbelt has two representatives in the Association, whose other members are the ministers of all Greenbelt churches—Catholic, Methodist, Baptist, Lutheran, Presbyterian and United Church of Christ—and the Rabbi of the Jewish synagogue.

For the Assembly, membership in the Association has been rewarding from the very beginning. Initial hesitation by the clergy in accepting Bahá’ís as members has been replaced by understanding and strong friendships through the pursuit of projects of mutual benefit.

The Greenbelt Assembly first became aware of the Association in 1976 when a flyer was circulated throughout the city announcing the places of worship.

On inquiring, the Assembly found that those who were listed were members of a city clergy group that met monthly. Of course, the Assembly sought membership, and after being accepted was listed on the next printing of the flyer. Whenever the flyer is updated, the Bahá’ís now provide the copy and layout for the printer.

Each Thanksgiving, some of the members of the Association hold a joint inter-faith service, for which the Bahá’ís have been asked to provide the “sermon” twice in the last six years.

Both times, the message was well-received, and a seeker developed from one of those meetings. She has since become a Bahá’í.

Between 1976-81, the Clergy Association brought together city officials and representatives of Greenbelt’s apartments and condominiums at 10 luncheons to discuss the needs and problems of the community and spark ideas for city improvements.

The Association participated in a comparative study of the practiced religions in Greenbelt, titled “What Your Neighbors Believe—Let’s Listen,” organized in 1981-82 by the Catholic Church.

On each of eight weeks, classes consisting of up to 50 adult students from around the city, all of whom were members of various faiths, met at one of the places of worship in Greenbelt.

At these sessions, each member of the Clergy Association gave a presentation designed to inform participants about the structure, beliefs and form of worship of their particular faith.

It was a golden opportunity for the Bahá’ís, who were able to teach the Faith to an interested audience in a straightforward way with no hesitation.

Last April the Association carried out a project, described by The Washington Post in a half-page essay, “to celebrate the confluence of three distinct religious holidays. . . the clergy association decided this year to expand observance of the Christian holy day of Good Friday to include the Jewish Passover season and Ridván, the 12-day celebration of the founding of the Bahá’í Faith.”

Many other joint ventures have been held. For example, all the clergy walk together in the city’s annual Labor Day parade, host Sunday morning worship services at a nearby park, establish and maintain a “Good Samaritan Fund” for people who need emergency gasoline or food, and host receptions for staff and faculty at the local high school to inform them of the nature of the city, express appreciation, and offer help.

During the 10-year relationship of the Greenbelt Bahá’ís with the Clergy Association, the abilities of the members to relate to one another has developed gratifyingly.

Meetings are often exciting forums in which new ideas for community service are synthesized. Most members have become old hands at identifying and factoring in the sensitivities of other groups so that each project will have some appeal to the members of all participating religious communities.

If there were no other rewards for involvement in the Clergy Association, one stands out clearly: the Bahá’ís have real friends among the clergy in Greenbelt.

Over the years, at least three members have visited the Holy Land, and each one knew that he must visit the Bahá’í Shrines while there.

From a cautious beginning, the clergy have come to love and respect the Bahá’ís, and have defended and supported them when others spoke against them.

The Spiritual Assembly of Greenbelt encourages other Assemblies to use this vehicle as a means of winning more friends for the Faith and becoming involved in service to the community of which they are a part.

Among those attending a fireside in June in Tyler, Texas, was Judy Jordan (third from left in back row) who anchors the evening news program on Tyler’s local television station.

World Center’s Archives Office thanks friends for help in finding many letters

To National Spiritual Assemblies

Dear Bahá’í Friends:

It is now some six months since the Archives Office sent to selected National Spiritual Assemblies detailed information concerning letters written by or on behalf of the Guardian which are sought for the Bahá’í World Center Archives. During that time the activities of many of the committees appointed by National Assemblies to carry out the search have resulted in a marked increase in the number of letters written on behalf of the Guardian being received at the World Center, and recent accessions have included the donation by one family of 50 original letters covering a period of more than 30 years.

Many National Assemblies have, as requested, given publicity to the appeal in their national newsletters. In addition to publishing the flyer prepared at the World Center, some have published the full list of letters which was sent to them in November 1986, and thus detailed information is available to all the friends in the area under their jurisdiction. If your own National Assembly has not yet taken such an action, you are encouraged to do so as a means of interesting the friends in this important project.

It is clear that these precious letters will not be saved and collected without an effort on the part of all concerned; it is vital that the friends be reminded about the importance of this appeal, and that it be kept in the forefront of their minds. We therefore request that you reprint the flyer, included in the letter dated November 20, 1986, in your bulletin at regular intervals, and make use of the other material sent to you at the same time, including the letter from the Universal House of Justice on this topic dated November 13, 1986. We have noted in particular the positive results of publishing the quotations on the subject of safeguarding the writings.

It is realized that tracing these letters involves considerable work in many communities, especially those which had the bounty of receiving relatively large numbers of letters from the Guardian. However, the provision of detailed information on the documents sought should make the task considerably easier. The search can best be carried out effectively with the help of National Assemblies and their communities, as there is no way by which the thousands of people who corresponded with the Guardian can be traced from the World Center.

Please be assured of our appreciation for all you may do to further the progress of this appeal, and do not hesitate to address any questions you may have to the Archives Office at the World Center.

With loving Bahá’í greetings,

Judith Oppenheimer for the Archives Office Bahá’í World Center

House of Justice issues urgent appeal for letters written by, for the Guardian

The Universal House of Justice has issued another urgent appeal for letters written by the Guardian or on his behalf and addressed to Bahá’í institutions or individual believers. It is important that the World Center maintain a complete collection of the Guardian’s letters as the House of Justice refers to its writings when preparing legislation and consulting on matters relating to the progress of the Faith.

The National Bahá’í Archives is searching for the following letters written to Bahá’ís in the U.S. If you have a letter, the Archives would like to receive either a good photocopy or the original letter. Please send letters to the National Bahá’í Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

NAME	DATE
ABAS, AUDREY	31-JUL-1957
ABAS, GEORGE EVANS	31-JUL-1957
ABAS, GERALD	13-AUG-1953
ABAS, JULIAN	13-JUL-1957
ABAS, LOIS	31-JUL-1957
ABAS, VICKI	12-MAY-1955
ABBAS ADIB	26-SEP-1936
ABBOTT, GRACE	26-OCT-1956
ABBOTT, GRACE	10-MAY-1957
ABBOTT, GRACE M	15-DEC-1956
ABU HASAN ABBAS	22-MAY-1932
ACEBO, MARGARETE	15-JUL-1951
ACEBO, MARGARETE	13-OCT-1952
ACEBO, MARGARETE	31-MAR-1953
ACEBO, MARGARETE	14-APR-1953
ACEBO, MARGARETE	16-MAY-1953
ACEBO, MARGARETE	27-JUN-1953
ACKERMAN, ALBERT	12-DEC-1938
ACKERMAN, EDYTHA	04-FEB-1928
ACKERMAN, HENRY	15-DEC-1924
ACKERMAN, L M	04-FEB-1928
ACKERMAN, LURA M	05-JUL-1927
ACKERMAN, REVELA	12-DEC-1938
ADAMS, CHARLES	01-JAN-1930
ADAMS, CHAS	23-APR-1931
ADAMS, CHAS	14-FEB-1939
ADAMS, CHAS	06-MAY-1942
ADAMS, CHAS MRS	06-MAY-1942
ADAMS, CHAS Q	23-APR-1931
ADAMS, CLARIBELLE	06-NOV-1925
ADAMS, HOWARD	05-JUL-1947
ADAMS, RUTH	01-APR-1947
ADAMY, WILMER ALICE	19-OCT-1951
ADELMANN, BERTHA S	25-MAY-1953
ADELMAN, ELIZABETH	09-FEB-1953
ADUCAT, J	13-AUG-1933
ADUCAT, MARGARET J	11-NOV-1951
AFROUCHTE, ANNIE	13-SEP-1932
AKEMANN, RHEA	29-DEC-1954
AKEMANN, RHEA	24-JUL-1955
AKEMANN, RHEA	11-OCT-1956
AKERT, W RICHARD	24-JUL-1955
AKER, GEORGE	04-DEC-1951
AKER, VERA	15-SEP-1950
AKRIDGE, ALICE	27-AUG-1951
AKRIDGE, ALICE	30-SEP-1949
ALALOU, CAROLINE LOUISE	27-NOV-1947
ALAI, REBINA R	21-FEB-1948
ALBERT FRANK-GUENTHER	08-AUG-1944
ALBERTSON, ALMA E E	27-OCT-1937
ALBERTSON, ALMA E E	12-APR-1938
ALDRIDGE, CLAUDIA COLES	20-JUL-1938
ALDRIDGE, CLAUDIA COLES	09-SEP-1950
ALDRIDGE, CLAUDIA COLES	19-AUG-1951
ALDRIDGE, JAMES B	21-MAR-1931
ALEXANDER, LULU	05-JUL-1955
ALEXANDER, LULU HALL	09-AUG-1954
ALEXANDER, LULU HALL	10-AUG-1956
ALEXANDER, PATRICIA	13-AUG-1952
ALEXANDER, PATRICIA	20-AUG-1950
ALEXANDER, R N	25-JUL-1941
ALIO, KATHRYN	22-JUN-1946
ALLEN, BRUNHILDE	13-FEB-1957
ALLEN, BRUNHILDE	12-JUL-1955
ALLEN, CHET	16-SEP-1956
ALLEN, D LEWIS	07-NOV-1934
ALLEN, DALE	25-MAR-1954
ALLEN, DWIGHT	17-AUG-1953
ALLEN, DWIGHT	22-SEP-1953
ALLEN, DWIGHT	12-JUL-1955
ALLEN, EMMA M	15-JUL-1952
ALLEN, J U	25-OCT-1954
ALLEN, J U	24-JUL-1956
ALLEN, JOHN	29-JAN-1954
ALLEN, LAURA KELSEY	15-SEP-1951
ALLEN, MARION	28-NOV-1952
ALLEN, RAYMOND K	02-SEP-1946
ALLEN, VADA N	16-APR-1956
ALLEN, VALERA	01-APR-1954
ALLEN, VALERA F	22-OCT-1953
ALLEN, VALERA F	29-JAN-1954
ALLEN, VALERA F	21-MAR-1954
ALLISON, EDITH	29-DEC-1951
ALLISON, THELMA	07-JUL-1956
ALLISON, THELMA	17-MAR-1957
ALLISON, THELMA	26-OCT-1957
ALLISON, WILLIAM S	29-DEC-1951
ALTER, HELEN	22-JUL-1955
ALTER, HELEN	12-FEB-1957
ALTER, HELEN	05-APR-1957
ALTER, HELEN	08-AUG-1957
AMBERG, FAITH	15-JUN-1942
AMBROSE, G	30-DEC-1954
AMBROSE, GERTRUDE	26-MAY-1953
AMERSON FAMILY	08-JUL-1953
AMERSON, BERNITA A	01-FEB-1956
AMERSON, GLADYS	19-MAR-1931
AMERSON, GLADYS M	27-MAR-1931
AMERSON, R B	09-MAY-1954
AMERSON, R B MRS	09-MAY-1954
AMERSON, ROBERT B	08-JUL-1953
AMERSON, ROBERT B	20-FEB-1955
AMERSON, ROBERT B	05-MAR-1956
AMERSON, ROBERT B MRS	20-FEB-1955
AMERSON, ROBERT B MRS	05-MAR-1956
AMES, HELENE	16-AUG-1957
AMES, HELENE M	04-MAY-1956
AMES, HELENE M	27-MAY-1956
AMES, HELENE M	11-JUL-1956
AMES, HELENE M	11-SEP-1956
AMES, HELENE M	28-SEP-1956
AMES, HELENE M	24-OCT-1956
AMES, HELENE M	24-DEC-1956
AMES, HELENE M	27-JAN-1957
AMES, HELENE M	27-FEB-1957
AMES, HELENE M	29-MAR-1957
AMES, HELENE M	12-MAY-1957
AMES, HELENE M	27-MAY-1957
AMES, HELENE M	05-SEP-1957
AMES, HELENE M	09-OCT-1957
AMES, L W	04-JAN-1956
AMES, L W MRS	01-FEB-1956
AMES, LESLIE W	08-MAR-1956
AMES, LESLIE W	27-JUN-1956
AMES, LESLIE W	13-SEP-1956
AMES, LESLIE W MRS	08-MAR-1956
AMES, LESLIE W MRS	27-JUN-1956
AMES, LYLE E	29-MAR-1957
AMES, LYLE E	27-MAY-1957
AMIDON, CAROL	16-AUG-1957
ANCHER, ROBERT E	09-JAN-1956
ANCHER, R E	27-DEC-1955
ANCTIL, HENRI P	29-JAN-1949
ANDERSEN, CHRIST	07-DEC-1923
ANDERSEN, CHRIST	18-AUG-1927
ANDERSON FAMILY	17-MAR-1940
ANDERSON FAMILY	05-NOV-1954
ANDERSON FAMILY	21-MAY-1956
ANDERSON, ALFRED	02-FEB-1923
ANDERSON, ALFRED	02-APR-1925
ANDERSON, ALFRED	09-SEP-1925
ANDERSON, ALFRED E	19-SEP-1930
ANDERSON, AUG	11-AUG-1935
ANDERSON, AUG MRS	17-MAR-1940
ANDERSON, AUGUST	07-APR-1923
ANDERSON, AUGUST	16-OCT-1953
ANDERSON, AUGUST MRS	16-OCT-1953
ANDERSON, BELLE	06-SEP-1957
ANDERSON, BELLE PERRY	21-APR-1957
ANDERSON, EDWIN	30-OCT-1933
ANDERSON, EDWIN	13-OCT-1955
ANDERSON, ESTELLE E	31-JUL-1938
ANDERSON, G NATALIE	30-MAR-1953
ANDERSON, G NATALIE	24-JUL-1953
ANDERSON, GLADYS	29-JUN-1943
ANDERSON, GLADYS	21-OCT-1928
ANDERSON, GRACE	27-MAR-1929
ANDERSON, GRACE	28-MAY-1931
ANDERSON, GRACE	15-JUL-1952
ANDERSON, HELEN S	11-JAN-1938
ANDERSON, HELEN S	20-JUL-1946
ANDERSON, HELEN S	18-AUG-1951
ANDERSON, HELEN S	25-NOV-1951
ANDERSON, HELEN S	27-DEC-1951
ANDERSON, HELEN S	25-JUN-1953
ANDERSON, JEANNIE	07-APR-1923
ANDERSON, JEANNIE	16-OCT-1953
ANDERSON, JENNIE	21-MAR-1955
ANDERSON, JENNIE	19-JUN-1955
ANDERSON, JENNIE	12-JUL-1955
ANDERSON, JENNIE	09-APR-1956
ANDERSON, JENNIE	05-JUN-1956

Wilmette Bahá’í wins top advertising award from St. Paul agency

Stacey Rubenstein, a member of the Bahá’í community of Wilmette, Illinois, who is a marketing executive with Federal Express, has won a 1987 “Persuasion Point” Award from Blaisdell & Westlie, a St. Paul-based ad agency.

Ms. Rubenstein, who received her plaque at an awards dinner August 13, was one of only four executives in the country honored with this year’s award. [Page 29]Bahá’í Distribution Service Price List October 1987 1

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

Price List: October 1987

Explanations of abbreviations and symbols
* = On Order	PA = Pamphlet
# = Net (no discount)	PER = Persian
CA = Calendar	PP = Photograph or Lithograph
CS = Cassette	PR = Poster
FD = Folder	PS = Pocket-sized Edition
HC = Hardcover	SC = Softcover
LP = Record	SPN = Spanish
LT = Lightweight Edition	TBA = Price to be announced
VT = Videotape

Bahá’u’lláh, the Báb, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Shoghi Effendi, and the Universal House of Justice

Title	Type	Price
‘Abdu’l-Bahá in London	HC	13.50
Advent of Divine Justice	HC	12.95
Advent of Divine Justice	SC	8.50
Call to the Nations	HC	6.95
Citadel of Faith	HC	12.95
Constitution: Universal House of Justice	SC	1.50
Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh	SC	1.50
ENG/PER/ARA: Fire Tablet/Holy Mariner	HC	17.50*
Foundations of World Unity	HC	10.95
Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh	HC	14.95
Gleanings--British Edition	SC	12.95
Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh	PS	3.95
God Passes By	HC	21.95
God Passes By	SC	12.95
Hidden Words of Bahá’u’lláh	HC	6.00
Hidden Words of Bahá’u’lláh--Deluxe Edition	HC	13.95
Hidden Words of Bahá’u’lláh	SC	3.50
Hidden Words--British Edition	SC	3.50
Kitáb-i-Íqán	PS	3.95
Kitáb-i-Íqán--British Edition	HC	12.95
Kitáb-i-Íqán--British Edition	SC	7.95
Light of Divine Guidance--Mess. to Aust. & Germ.	HC	21.00*
Light of Divine Guidance--2-Ltrs. " " " "	HC	16.00*
Memorials of the Faithful	HC	10.95
Messages from the Universal House of Justice	HC	4.50
Messages from the Universal House of Justice	SC	2.00
Paris Talks	SC	5.95
Prayers and Meditations	HC	14.95
Prayers and Meditations--British Edition	HC	11.00
Prayers and Meditations	SC	3.75
Proclamation of Bahá’u’lláh	HC	7.50
Proclamation of Bahá’u’lláh	SC	3.75
Promise of World Peace--Deluxe Edition	HC	10.00#
Promise of World Peace--Illustrated Summary	SC	1.75
Promise of World Peace--Large Format	SC	10.95
Promise of World Peace--Pocket-size, Pkg./10	SC	5.50
Promise of World Peace--Presentation Edition	SC	3.00
Promise of World Peace--Study Edition	SC	.95
Promised Day Is Come	HC	8.50
Promulgation of Universal Peace	HC	16.95
Secret of Divine Civilization	HC	11.95
Selected Writings of Bahá’u’lláh	HC	11.95
Selected Writings of Shoghi Effendi	SC	1.00
Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá	HC	12.50
Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá	SC	6.95
Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá	LT	6.95
Selections from the Writings of the Báb	HC	11.95
Selections from the Writings of the Báb	LT	6.95
Seven Valleys and Four Valleys	HC	6.00
Seven Valleys and Four Valleys	SC	3.50
Some Answered Questions	HC	14.95
Some Answered Questions	PS	3.95
Synopsis and Codification of Kitáb-i-Aqdas	HC	2.50
Tablet to the Christians & An Appreciation	SC	2.00*
Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá	HC	13.95
Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh	LT	6.95
Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh	HC	6.95
Tablets of the Divine Plan	SC	2.50
To the Peoples of the World (Second Edition)	SC	2.50
Traveler’s Narrative	HC	10.00
Traveler’s Narrative	SC	6.50
Unfolding Destiny	HC	28.50
Wellspring of Guidance	HC	9.00
Wellspring of Guidance	SC	4.00
World Order of Bahá’u’lláh	HC	11.95
World Order of Bahá’u’lláh	SC	6.95
Writings of Bahá’u’lláh--A Compilation	HC	19.95*

Compilations & Prayer Books

Title	Type	Price
America’s Spiritual Destiny	SC	3.00
Ascension of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá	SC	2.00
Bahá’í Daybook	SC	3.95
Bahá’í Education--British Edition	SC	3.95
Bahá’í Marriage and Family Life	SC	2.75
Bahá’í Marriage and Family Life Study Guide	SC	3.75
Bahá’í Prayers	HC	8.50
Bahá’í Prayers	SC	3.95
Bahá’í Prayers--British Edition	SC	5.00
Bahá’í Prayers and Holy Writings	SC	2.50*
Bahá’í Writings on Music	SC	2.50
Bahíyyih Khánum: Greatest Holy Leaf	HC	10.50
Bahíyyih Khánum: Greatest Holy Leaf	SC	5.50
Centers of Bahá’í Learning	SC	1.00
Consultation Compilation	SC	1.00
Continental Boards of Counselors	SC	3.00
Days to Remember	SC	7.00
Death: The Messenger of Joy	SC	3.00
Desire of the World	SC	6.95
Divine Art of Living	SC	7.95
Divorce Compilation	SC	2.00
Family Life Compilation	SC	2.95
Handmaidens of God	SC	1.95
Hidden Words and Selected Holy Writings	SC	2.50
Huqúqu’lláh Compilation	SC	1.50
Individual and Teaching	SC	1.50
Inspiring the Heart	HC	9.50
Inspiring the Heart	SC	4.95
Living the Life	SC	2.25
Local Spiritual Assembly	SC	.50
National Spiritual Assembly	SC	1.00
Pattern of Bahá’í Life	SC	2.25
Peace Compilation	SC	2.95
Peace: More Than an End to War	HC	16.00
Peace: More Than an End to War	SC	8.95
Political Non-Involvement	SC	1.25
Power of Divine Assistance--British Edition	SC	2.50
Power of Unity	SC	7.95
Prayers and Thoughts for Peace	SC	3.25
Principles of Bahá’í Administration	HC	6.00
Principles of Bahá’í Administration	SC	4.00
Quickeners of Mankind	SC	1.00
Remembrance of God	SC	.75
Selected Prayers--Pkg. of 10	SC	5.50
Special Measure of Love	SC	1.00
Spiritual Foundations	SC	1.00
Throne of the Inner Temple	SC	6.00
Trustworthiness Compilation	SC	1.50
Universal House of Justice	SC	3.50
Unrestrained As the Wind	SC	7.95
Waging Peace	SC	7.95
Women Compilation	SC	2.00
Words of God	SC	1.50

General Titles

Title	Type	Price
‘Abdu’l-Bahá: Centre of the Covenant	SC	14.95
‘Abdu’l-Bahá, The Master	HC	6.95
All Flags Flying	SC	20.00
All Flags Flying	HC	10.00
All Things Made New	HC	17.95
All Things Made New	SC	9.95
Another Song, Another Season	SC	2.00
Bab and Bahá’í Religions--Smith	HC	19.95
Bab and Bahá’í Religions--Smith	SC	11.95
Bahá’í Faith--Perkins and Haynesworth	SC	2.25*
Bahá’í Faith in America: 1892-1900	HC	17.95
Bahá’í Faith: The Emerging Global Religion	HC	15.95
Bahá’í Faith: An Introduction--Faizi	SC	1.50
Bahá’í Focus on Human Rights	SC	3.50
Bahá’í Focus on Peace	SC	5.00
Bahá’í References to Judaism, etc.	SC	11.95
Bahá’í Studies Notebook: Health	SC	7.50
Bahá’í Studies Notebook: Marriage and Family	SC	7.50
Bahá’í Studies 2: Science/Religion	SC	5.00
Bahá’í Studies 6: Violence-Free Society	SC	5.00
Bahá’í Studies 12/13: Persecution 1844-1984	SC	5.00
Bahá’í Studies 15: Abiding Silence (poetry)	SC	5.00
Bahá’í World Volumes 1-12 (set)	HC	275.00*
Bahá’í World: Volume 13 (XIII)	HC	27.00
Bahá’í World: Volume 14 (XIV)	HC	16.00
Bahá’í World: Volume 15 (XV)	HC	17.50
Bahá’í World: Volume 16 (XVI)	HC	20.00
Bahá’í World: Volume 17 (XVII)	HC	22.50
Bahá’í World: Volume 18 (XVIII)	HC	40.00
Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era	HC	11.95
Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era	SC	3.50
Bahá’u’lláh: The Word Made Flesh	SC	5.95
Beyond Disarmament	SC	1.50
Christ and Bahá’u’lláh	SC	3.95
Christianity of Jesus	HC	7.00
Circle of Peace	SC	9.95
Circle of Unity	SC	9.95
Concordance to the Hidden Words	SC	2.50
Dawn-Breakers--British Edition	HC	14.00
Dawn Over Mount Hira	HC	2.00
Dawning Place	HC	21.95
Dawning Place	SC	13.50
Dawning Place of the Pacific	HC	8.00
Declaration of Trust and By-Laws of NSA/LSA	SC	1.00
Diary of Juliet Thompson	SC	9.95
Divine Therapy	HC	14.95
Divine Therapy	SC	6.95
Door of Hope	SC	13.50
Earth Is But One Country	SC	5.00
Eminent Bahá’ís in the Time of Bahá’u’lláh	HC	28.50
Eminent Bahá’ís in the Time of Bahá’u’lláh	SC	15.95
Equal Circles	SC	9.95
Fire on the Mountain Top	SC	3.00*
For the Good of Mankind	HC	10.95
Four on an Island	SC	5.95
From Copper to Gold--Low Priced Hard Cover	HC	13.95
From Strength to Strength	SC	2.00
George Townshend	SC	12.95
God Loves Laughter	SC	6.95
Golden Rule	HC	13.95
Golden Rule	SC	5.95
Guidelines for Parents	SC	2.00
He Loved and Served	SC	7.95
Hour of the Dawn: The Life of the Báb	HC	15.95
Hour of the Dawn: The Life of the Báb	SC	7.95
Imperishable Dominion	SC	11.95
In Galilee	HC	7.95
Iran’s Secret Pogrom	SC	3.50
Leo Tolstoy and the Bahá’í Faith	HC	9.95
Leo Tolstoy and the Bahá’í Faith	SC	4.75
Letters and Essays: Mirza Abu’l-Fadl	HC	11.95
Lidia: Daughter of Esperanto	SC	11.95
Light of Bahá’u’lláh	SC	3.50
March of the Institutions--Low Priced Hardcover	HC	7.50
Martha Root: Lioness at the Threshold	HC	21.95
Martha Root: Lioness at the Threshold	SC	14.95
Master in ‘Akká	HC	11.95
Meditations on the Eve of November 4th	HC	3.00
Memories of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá	HC	10.00
Memories of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá	SC	6.00
Miracles and Metaphors	SC	8.95
Mission of Bahá’u’lláh	HC	10.95
Mothers, Fathers, and Children	SC	8.95
Mullá Husayn: Disciple at Dawn	HC	14.95
Munírih Khánum: Memoirs and Letters	HC	8.95
My Memories of Bahá’u’lláh	SC	8.95
Mystery of God	HC	16.00
Once to Every Man and Nation	SC	5.95
Passing of Shoghi Effendi	SC	2.25
Peace Bible	HC	8.95
Phoenix and the Ashes	SC	6.95
Portals to Freedom	SC	8.95
Prayer: A Bahá’í Approach	SC	5.95
Priceless Pearl	HC	6.00
Promise of All Ages	HC	10.95
Promise of All Ages	SC	3.50
Purpose of Physical Reality	SC	9.95
Reader’s Guide to Bahá’í Literature	HC	14.95
Reader’s Guide to Bahá’í Literature	SC	8.95
Rebirth: Memoirs of R. Szanto-Felberman	SC	3.00
Reginald Turvey/Life and Art	SC	14.95
Religion for Mankind	SC	5.95
Renewal of Civilization	SC	2.95
Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh, Volume 1	SC	11.95
Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh, Volume 2	SC	14.50
Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh, Volume 3	HC	19.95
Science and Religion	SC	9.95
Selections from the Writings of E.G. Browne	HC	29.50
Selections from the Writings of E.G. Browne	SC	16.95
Seven Martyrs of Hurmuzak	SC	9.95
Shí‘ih Islám: An Introduction	HC	25.00
Shí‘ih Islám: An Introduction	SC	15.00
Shoghi Effendi: Recollections	HC	16.95
Song Celestial	HC	8.00
Stories of Bahá’u’lláh	HC	12.95
Stories of Bahá’u’lláh	SC	5.95
Stories from the Delight of Hearts	HC	9.00
Story of My Heart	SC	8.95
Studies in Bábí and Bahá’í History	HC	19.95
Studies in Bábí and Bahá’í History, Vol. 2	HC	19.95
Summon Up Remembrance	HC	25.00
Summon Up Remembrance	SC	14.95
Teaching the Bahá’í Faith	SC	1.00
Ten Days in the Light of ‘Akká	SC	6.00
These Things Shall Be	SC	2.00
Thief in the Night	SC	3.95
Thoughts: Education for Peace	SC	11.95
To Move the World	SC	8.95
To a Seeker	SC	5.95
To Understand and Be Understood	SC	7.50
Touchstone of Sincerity	SC	6.50
Tristan	HC	15.95
Tristan	SC	7.95
Unity: Creative Foundation of Peace	SC	8.95
Vignettes from the Life of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá	SC	8.95
Way Out of the Dead End	HC	10.95
Way Out of the Dead End	SC	6.95
What is the Bahá’í Faith	SC	8.95
Wine of Astonishment	SC	3.95
World Peace and World Government	SC	2.50
A Year with the Bahá’ís of India and Burma	HC	8.95
Youth in the Vanguard	SC	5.00

Children and Youth

Title	Type	Price
Ali’s Dream	HC	3.95
Anthology for the Bahá’í Child	SC	3.00
B. J. and the Language of the Woodland	SC	3.75
Bahá’í Principles for Children	SC	2.50
Birth of the Bahá’í Faith	SC	1.00
Blessed Is the Spot	SC	8.95
Diamond in the Darkness	SC	3.50
Dragons of Rizvania	HC	8.95
Fly Away Home	SC	3.95
God and His Messengers	SC	5.95
Guebe and the Toy Truck	SC	3.95
I Am a Bahá’í--Sunflower Set 2	SC	4.95
Let Thy Breeze Refresh Them	HC	5.50
Magnified Be Thy Name	HC	5.50
Mama Buzurg Is Coming	SC	3.95
Mullá Husayn	SC	3.50
My Baby Book	HC	5.00
My Name is Nabíl	HC	6.00
Nine Holy Days	SC	3.50
O God, Guide Me	SC	3.75

[Page 30]O God, My God Pokka Stories Prayers for Children HC 6.50 SPN: Oraciones Bahá’ís SC 3.75 Unity in Diversity SC 2.00 SPN: Oraciones y Meditaciones SC 7.50 Visit with the Master...True SC 1.50 SPN: Palabras de Dios SC .50 We Are Bahá’ís The Promise #1 (Ages 6-8) SC 5.00 SPN: Palabras Ocultas SC 2.00 We Are One The Promise 2 (Ages 9-11) SC 5.00 SPN: Pasajes-Escritos de Bahá’u’lláh SC 7.00 We Want to Grow Up The Promise 3 (Ages 12-14) SC 5.00 SPN: Poder de Asistancia Divina SC 1.00 Wildfire 282228 CS 8.00 CS 7.50 CS 8.00 CS 8.50 CS 8.00 CS 8.00 Quadás SC 3.50 SPN: Prescripcion para Vivir SC 5.00 Women: Equality and Peace...Khan CS 7.50 Refuge and the Cave SC 5.50 SPN: Promesa de Paz Mundial SC 1.00

Photographs, Calendars and Posters

‘Abdu’l-Bahá Color Lithograph, 11" X 14" PP 7.00 ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Lithograph, 10.5" X 15" PP 2.50 Bahá’í Ringstone--Illuminated Print PP 5.00 Do-It-Yourself Calendar Sticker Kit CA 2.50 Greatest Name--Illuminated Print PP 5.00 Wilmette House of Worship PR 1.00 Remember My Days SC 4.50 SPN: Quienes Dios Confia PA .50 Second Birth HC 8.00 SPN: Recopilacion de Escritos SC 3.50 Second Birth SC 5.00 SPN: Renovación de Civilización SC 3.25 Secret in the Garden BC 5.95 SPN: El Rosedal SC 1.00 Secret in the Garden SC 3.00 SPN: Ruespuestas a Algunas Preguntas SC 12.75 Secret of the Stolen Mandolin SC 3.75 SPN: Ruespuestas Bahá’ís PA .25 Song in the Ground SC 3.95 Special Strengths Spotlessly Leopard Stories of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá SC 3.95 SPN: Sinopsis y Codification Kitáb-i-Aqdas SC 3.50 SPN: Tablas de Bahá’u’lláh SC 7.50 Stories for Children SC 4.00 Stories from Star of the West SC 5.50 Story of Stories SC 3.00 Sunshine Tree SC 3.00 Tablet of the Heart SC 9.95 Táhirih HC 9.75 Wonderlamp HC 9.95 Zahra's Search SC 3.50 HC 12.95 SC 3.25

Foreign Language

PER/ARA: Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh HC 21.50 PER/ENG/ARA: Fire Tablet/Holy Mariner HC 16.95 PER: Advent of Divine Justice SC 4.25 PER: Amr Va Khalq HC 14.00 PER: Amr Va Khalq, Volume 2 HC 25.95 PER: Athár-Guharbar (Precious Pearls) HC 11.95 PER: Bahá’í Faith Not Political SC 4.00 PER: Bahá’í Life SC 1.50 PER: Bahiyyih Khánum HC 16.50 PER: Chand Bahth-i-Amri SC 4.00 PER: Collected Works of Dr. Davudi HC 19.95 PER: Daryay-i-Danish (Tablets & Prayers) HC 8.95 PER: Epistle to the Son of the Wolf HC 20.00 PER: Fire and Light HC 17.50 PER: Garden of Truth HC 12.95 PER: Gleanings HC 11.00 PER: Golzár-i-Ta'álfa-i-Bahá’í HC 6.00 PER: Kitáb-i-Iqán HC 10.50 PER: Life of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá HC 20.00 PER: Memoirs of Nine Years in ’Akká HC 15.95 PER: Mufávidát-i-‘Abdu’l-Bahá (Some Ans. Ques.) HC 9.95 PER: Navnithalan-I-Ma SC 3.00 PER: Prayers of Shoghi Effendi BC 3.50 PER: Principles of the Bahá’í Faith SC 2.50 PER: Promise of World Peace SC .60 PER: Secret of Divine Civilization SC 4.00 PER: Selected Letters of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá HC 8.00 PER: Selected Letters of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Vol. 2 HC 6.50 PER: Selected Writings of the Báb HC 17.00 PER: Success in Teaching SC 1.25 PER: Synopsis/Codification of Kitáb-i-Aqdas SC 2.50 PER: Tablets/Bahá’u’lláh After Kitáb-i-Aqdas HC 19.95 PER: Tablets for the Departed HC 16.00 PER: Tablets of the Divine Plan SC 1.80 PER: Talks of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá HC 14.00 PER: Tasbyh-u-Tahlyl (Prayers and Meditations) HC 9.95 PER: U.H.J. Messages to Iran SC 5.50 SPN: Adventimiento de Justicia Divina SC 3.75 SPN: Bahá’u’lláh y la Nueva Era SC 8.25 SPN: Christo y Bahá’u’lláh SC 3.50 SPN: Constitución: Casa Universal de Justicia SC 5.00 SPN: Datos Basicos PA .10 SPN: Día Prometido Ha Llegado SC 5.25 SPN: Dios Pasa SC 10.50 SPN: Dispensación de Bahá’u’lláh SC 3.75 SPN: Epistola del Hijo del Lobo SC 7.50 SPN: Estudio-Escritos Bahá’ís SC 4.00 SPN: Fe Bahá’í Teaching Booklet SC 1.50 SPN: Flores de los Altares SC 2.75 SPN: Fortaleza para el Bienestar SC 3.50 SPN: Kitáb-i-Iqán SC 6.00

Pamphlets, Cards and Folders

Bahá’í Faith Presentation File Folder FD .50 Bahá’í Peace Program--Pkg. of 5 PA 4.50 Becoming Your True Self--Pkg. of 5 PA 7.00 Building a Unified Community PA 3.00 Communion with God--Large Type SC 1.50 Gift of Life--Pkg. of 10 with Envelopes CD 12.50 God's Great Plan SC 2.00 In Search of Supreme Talisman--Pkg. of 10 PA 3.00 Peace Pamphlets: General Introduction--Pkg/50 PA 7.50 Peace Pamphlets: Oneness of Religion--Pkg/50 PA 7.50 Peace Pamphlets: Race Unity--Pkg/50 PA 7.50 Peace Pamphlets: World Government--Pkg/50 PA 7.50 Open Door--Pkg. of 10 with Envelopes CD 9.50 Promise of Disarmament and Peace--Pkg. of 50 PA 10.00 Prophecy Fulfilled--Pkg. of 10 PA 4.50 Race Unity Pamphlets--Pkg. of 20 PA 2.000 Success in Teaching--Pkg. of 5 PA 7.00 Tapestry Note Cards--Pkg. of 10 with Envelopes CD 12.50 Teaching Cards, Wilmette H.O.W.--Pkg. of 25 CD 3.95

Ordering Instructions

To process your order, the Distribution Service needs your name and address and a daytime telephone number. For each item ordered you must give the quantity, title and type (HC, SC, CS, etc.). Since stock numbers are no longer used when ordering books, it is essential that the type of item be included.

Payment must accompany orders from individuals. You may pay by check, money order, VISA or MasterCard (include account number and expiration date). As of May 1, 1986, no postage will be charged, and all orders will be shipped by United Parcel Service (except to post office boxes) unless another method is specifically requested. Credit card orders may be placed by phone on our toll-free line, 1-800-323-1880 (except in Illinois).

Videotapes and Recordings

Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh...Khan CS 7.50 Are You Happy?...Olinga CS 7.50 Ark of Destiny--Beta VT 25.00 Ark of Destiny--VHS VT 25.00 Bahá’í Faith: Through Eyes/Young Bahá’ís--Beta VT 25.00 Bahá’í Faith: Through Eyes/Young Bahá’ís--VHS VT 25.00 Bahá’í Faith: Unity in Diversity--Beta VT 25.00 Bahá’í Faith: Unity in Diversity--VHS VT 25.00 Because We Love the Faith...Collins/Baker CS 7.50 Come On, Rise Up CS 8.00 Echoes of the Lotus--Music Tape CS 8.95 Echoes of the Lotus--Set of 4 CS 29.95 Eucation/Trustees--Beta VI 30.00 Education/Trustees--VHS VT 30.00 Flight LP 2.00 Foundations of Learning...Faizi CS 7.50 Heart of the Lotus--Beta VT 25.00 Heart of the Lotus--VHS VI 25.00 If You Only Knew CS 8.00 In the Days of the Guardian...Iaos CS 7.50 In His Presence...Samandari CS 7.50 Jewel in the Lotus CS 8.00 Loving Hands CS 8.95 Major and Minor Plans of God...Khan CS 7.50 Meeting the Master, Volume I CS 7.50 Meeting the Master--Beta VI 19.95 Meeting the Master--VHS VT 19.95 "Mona" Music Video--Beta VT 45.000 "Mona" Music Video--VHS VT 45.000 Mona with the Children--Audio Cassette CS 8.00 My Only Desire...Alexander CS 7.50 Nightingale CS 8.00 Samoa: The Dawning Place--Beta VT 25.00 Samoa: The Dawning Place--VHS VT 25.00 Stories From the Dawn-Breakers--Set of 4 CS 24.00 Strengthening Administrative Order...Holley CS 7.50 Teaching Peace CS 8.00 This Century of Progress...B. Mitchell CS 7.50 Triumph of the Cause...Balyuzi CS 7.50

new from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust

Why has God ordained that we begin our spiritual journey in a physical world?

The Purpose of Physical Reality The Kingdom Names

• How can we use the world around us to further our spiritual development?

159 pages. Bibliography SC $9.95

How can our choices in earthly life affect the quality of our life in the world beyond?

Author John S. Hatcher examines the Bahá’í and other writings to show us how to unleash our human potential and take advantage of the unique opportunities of our physical existence.

Order through your local librarian, or send check or money order (no charge for postage or handling) to:

Bahá’í Distribution Service 415 LINDEN AVENUE, WILMETTE, IL 60091 TEL 1-800-323-1880

• Price valid only in the United States

[Page 31]

10 YEARS AGO

The "Victory Campaign" proposed by the Hand of the Cause of God William Sears is launched by the National Spiritual Assembly with a "call to arms" the weekend of September 10-11 as the "spiritual army" of Bahá’u’lláh begins its mighty push toward victory in the closing months of the Five Year Plan.

The "victory sessions" of intensive study that weekend are hosted by every local Spiritual Assembly in the country as a prelude to a month-long series of firesides to be held from September 20-October 20, and a period of deepening and consolidation of victories that is to continue through November 12, the anniversary of the Birth of Bahá’u’lláh.

The National Spiritual Assembly has called for a minimum of 20,000 firesides to be held in the month ending October 20, the anniversary of the Birth of the Báb. ...

In August, the name of the Faith is emblazoned in front-page headlines from coast to coast as an armed man with a history of mental illness holds 63 of the friends hostage, some for more than five hours, at the Bosch Bahá’í School in northern California.

The ordeal begins in the early evening hours on August 17 when the gunman, 26-year-old Thomas Wilson, commandeers a city bus in nearby Santa Cruz and orders the driver to take him to the Bosch School where he enters the dining room brandishing a .22 caliber repeating rifle and orders the friends, who are having supper, to barricade the building and remain there with him.

The drama ends shortly after 11:30 that evening when the last of the Bahá’í hostages—the gunman has by that time released all but five men—talk him into laying aside his gun and surrendering to the authorities.

In the end, the gunman walks arm-in-arm from the lodge with his five remaining hostages: Kenton Allen of Menlo Park; Mark Rossman of Tempe, Arizona; Reese Whitcomb of Redwood Estates; Morgan Merritt of Chula Vista; and R. Dean Boone of Las Vegas, Nevada. ...

The National Spiritual Assembly, in an unprecedented action designed to nourish and support teaching activities in the last critical months of the Five Year Plan, pledges $100,000 of the current National Center budget to establish a homefront deputization fund and invites the friends throughout the country to contribute to it.

The purpose of the fund is to encourage and assist homefront pioneers to settle in localities in which local Assemblies can be formed. Whenever monies from the fund are used, the end result will be the formation of a local Assembly, and pioneers who are helped by the fund will be expected to remain at their posts at least until the end of the Plan. ...

The Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute in Hemingway, South Carolina, is the site of a meeting July 23 to assess the progress of teaching efforts in that state. ...

Letters

from page 3

2. Are we consulting, within our communities, on creative alternatives to the way we keep our funds fluid during the "summer slump"?

3. Is the so-called "summer slump" really just an excuse that we console ourselves with?

4. What services would we like to see improved from the National Center outward? Are there ways that we can help the National Center actually reduce its expenditures on some of these services? (For instance: is there some way that those of us with our own PCs can help any of the functions along?)

5. Those of us who have written letters on this (I’m sure all of them haven’t been published) have, de facto, seen the need to bring this to our collective attention. Has there been any consultation at the local level? Have any ideas/solutions been raised thereby?

6. Regarding both the wealth-poverty question and that of racism: is it possible that things are happening below the surface that we don’t see?

We "in the trenches" don’t see everything that goes on. Teaching is a good example. Many have expressed the desire to see more teaching; how many of us recognize, though, the personal, individual efforts that are daily expended in this field?

7. As in any consultation, what are the spiritual principles involved here? How, on a national and local level, can these be applied creatively?

The principle involved in bringing these and other topics to national attention should be that of positive encouragement.

The beloved Master, even when He was upset with a service not rendered, or a situation not settled, used this principle, and its counterpart—creative action—in His dealings with us, the embryonic Western contingent of the friends of God.

Can we, who are retracing His steps of 75 years ago, do any less?

Martin R. Flick San Mateo, California

Salute to Hazel Umtuch

To the Editor:

Regarding the article (July) about the formation of the first local Spiritual Assembly on the Gila River Indian Reservation of the Pima tribe, it says in the second paragraph, "It was the fruit of two years of monthly meetings and teaching activities by the Bahá’ís of Tempe (Arizona)."

Actually, the work, teaching, prayers and sacrifices go back nearly a decade, and a major participant in the field of service was a non-Bahá’í, Hazel Umtuch of the Yakima Reservation in Washington state.

Mrs. Umtuch, the widow of an esteemed Yakima tribal chief, is the mother of Lorintha Umtuch Warwick, the first Yakima Indian youth to embrace the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh.

Lorintha was instrumental in teaching a young Pima teen-ager who had left the Gila River Reservation to seek work and schooling in Yakima. Mrs. Umtuch took that young man into her home and encouraged him to study the Bahá’í Writings, even though she herself was a devout Christian and an adherent of the traditional Indian spiritual ways.

Mrs. Umtuch also encouraged the Bahá’ís of Yakima and Wapato to teach the Faith.

When the young Pima man declared, the Spiritual Assembly of Wapato joined hands with Mrs. Umtuch and made many sacrifices to send him and me to the Gila River Reservation to teach.

So illustrious was the teaching of this young Native American, under the umbrella of sacrifice of both the Bahá’ís and a non-Bahá’í Indian leader, that many of the Pimas declared their faith including those mentioned in The American Bahá’í.

Even after these beautiful Pimas embraced the Faith, a few came to the Yakima Reservation where Mrs. Umtuch and the Bahá’ís in Wapato shared love, fellowship and friendship.

Afterward, they returned to Arizona to continue their service to the Cause, and in 1987 formed an Assembly thanks to the guidance and efforts of the Tempe community and Doug and Betty Harris.

But it all began with the love and sacrifices of a non-Bahá’í Indian woman, Hazel Umtuch.

Joseph Galata Sparks, Nevada

WE EXPRESS OUR DEEP SORROW AT TRAGIC PASSING ESTEEMED ROBERT GAINES, DEVOTED LIFETIME BAHÁ’Í AND NOTABLE PROMOTER LOUHELEN BAHÁ’Í SCHOOL. CONVEY CONDOLENCES DEAR WIFE, CHILDREN, BROTHER. PRAYING HOLY SHRINES PROGRESS HIS NOBLE SOUL WORLDS GOD. UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE AUGUST 20, 1987

‘Atmosphere’ all-important

To the Editor:

In the immensity of space, all is darkness. Only within the atmosphere surrounding our planet is the light of the sun manifested.

Without this envelope of gas we call air, none of the life-giving rays of the sun would reach us. Life would not exist.

So it is with the spiritual lifeforce. If we allow ourselves to become mired in an atmosphere of darkness, ignorance and rebellion, God’s light will not be able to manifest itself in our hearts and minds. Our souls will not receive the life-giving knowledge of God.

Think how we blossom and thrive at Bahá’í teaching projects, summer schools and other large functions: our hearts expand with love, our souls sing, our minds soar with new realizations. We experience feelings of health and happiness that continue for hours and even days after the event.

All too soon, however, we must return to the old world with all its petty problems, and the atmosphere around us becomes dark and dreary and we seem to shrivel down to lesser beings.

This is why it is so very important that we turn to God in prayer morning, noon and night, and anytime between when we feel the atmosphere around us becoming cloudy and blocking our Sun.

When those around us pollute the air with obscene language, dirty jokes, nasty remarks about others, insult us, display greed, a lack of integrity, insensitivity, or outright cruelty, when a reckless driver cuts in front of us, or traffic is snarled and our nerves fray, or when our tempers start to get out of hand, it is time to turn to God in prayer and recreate a spiritual atmosphere around us.

It is equally important that an atmosphere of love and tranquility permeate our homes so that nothing of the outside world can enter to disturb our peace of mind.

It is helpful to set aside a corner of the home where problems can be discussed and loving but frank consultation can take place, and to let this be the only place in the home where problems are allowed to be voiced.

Always keep a prayer book there. Do not let anything else take place during such times. Full attention must be given to the problem being discussed. The rest of the home should be for love.

Always hold hands during these discussions—it is impossible to feel isolated or hurt, to be troubled or upset, when love is flowing from heart to heart through touching.

Protect your atmosphere so that the Sun of Bahá’í can illumine your life.

M.J. Antoinette Isaac Gallup, New Mexico

Memory of Robert Gulick

To the Editor:

The obituary (July) on Dr. Robert L. Gulick Jr. brought to mind his thoughtfulness for a Bahá’í friend.

Once, years ago, Dr. Gulick learned that I had a low-paying job in the U.S. Appraiser’s Office at the Port of New York; this because, caught up in the throes of the great Depression of the 1930s, I had had to leave high school in my first year to help with family expenses.

Through my duties as Customs clerk I had handled requests for information from San Francisco and noticed that Dr. Gulick was a Customs examiner there and that a close relative of his was the U.S. Appraiser of the Port.

Dr. Gulick kindly offered to put in a good word for me with the Chief Assistant Appraiser in New York.

I declined the offer, as I felt I should move up the Civil Service ladder on my own (which I did, retiring in 1969 as an acting Deputy Collector at the New York Customhouse), but Dr. Gulick’s offer of help will always remain among my fondest Bahá’í memories.

Paul Pearsall Jersey City, New Jersey

Service can aid growth

To the Editor:

In the years since becoming a Bahá’í, I have observed a couple of things that I believe to be somewhat interrelated.

First, the Bahá’í community tends to turn inward, both socially and spiritually; second, it is difficult to get people to come to firesides.

It seems to me that if we would reach outward—and live the Faith as well as talk about it—we could interest more people in coming to firesides to investigate the Faith.

How to do this? The answer is relatively simple. If each Bahá’í would reach out and contribute only one hour a week to some cause outside the Faith—taking the opportunity as available to talk about the Faith—then before too long, our firesides would be well-attended.

There isn’t a not-for-profit group anywhere that can’t use more help. Lacking that, there are the ill and infirm everywhere needing visitors.

Choose something that interests you as a Bahá’í—Boy or Girl Scouts, Cancer Society, Alliance of the Mentally Ill—the world is teeming with not-for-profit organizations that could use your help.

Or, choose a hospital or nursing home and visit—anyone. There are plenty of people in those institutions who would love to see anyone.

As ‎Bahá’í’s Baháís‎, if we would reach out and give of ourselves, we would soon find our firesides filled to overflowing. Try it! You’ll like it! And the results can be most joyful and fruitful.

Judith Griffin Glenview, Illinois

IN MEMORIAM

Venus Allman Cincinnati, OH July 25, 1987	Ruhiyyih Haghani Sacramento, CA July 4, 1987	Rouhieh McComb Sarasota, FL August 11, 1987
Eddie Anderson Shaker Hts., OH July 21, 1987	Eleanor Haithcox Cleveland, OH July 23, 1987	Sammey Ray Denton, TX Date Unknown
Leila Antonson Lakewood, CA January 22, 1987	Richard James Denton, TX Date Unknown	Margary Rogers Cheraw, SC December 1986
Katie C. Best Trenton, NJ July 20, 1987	Beverly Jankowski Kennesaw, GA August 7, 1987	Maryam Sadeghian Los Altos Hills, CA January 1985
Lucille Brown Timmonsville, SC 1985	Walter Johnson Monmouth, IL November 6, 1986	Irene Servais Green Bay, WI June 27, 1987
Lonnie A. Ellis Fresno, CA April 3, 1987	Paul Louberge Fond du Lac, WI July 28, 1987	Marvin Sires Corvallis, OR July 6, 1987
Lawrence Frew Waukegan, IL February 14, 1987	Martin Lowry Shaker Hts., OH August 19, 1986	Phillips Sweet Portsmouth, NH January 10, 1987
Robert Gaines Rochester, MI August 1987	Deborah Meador Redlands, CA July 30, 1987	Carol A. Wills Wheeling, IL July 6, 1987
Richard Garrett Harwich, MA July 22, 1987

[Page 32]

MOVING? TELL US YOUR NEW ADDRESS

To avoid unnecessary delays in receiving your copy of THE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í, send your new address and your mailing label to the OFFICE OF MEMBERSHIP & RECORDS, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, as soon as you know where you are going to move and what your new address will be.

This form may be used for one person or your entire family. Please be sure to list FULL NAMES AND I.D. NUMBERS for all individuals, ages 15 years or older, who will be affected by this change.

A 1. ID# Title Full name—Please DO NOT use nicknames 2. ID# Title Full name 3. ID# Title Full name 4. ID#

B—NEW RESIDENCE ADDRESS: Title Full name

C—NEW MAIL ADDRESS: P.O. Box or other Mailing Address: House/Space #, Street or Description City State Zip

D—NEW COMMUNITY: Name of new Bahá’í community

E—HOME TELEPHONE NUMBER: Area Code Number

F—WORK TELEPHONE NUMBERS: Please indicate in the right-hand space whose work numbers these are. Area Code Number Name Area Code Number Name

Moving date

G 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 last names and addresses on our labels exactly.

We receive extra copies because: [ ] we do not have the same last name. [ ] we do not want extra copies, so please cancel the copy for the person(s) whose name(s) and I.D. number(s) are listed above. [ ] corrections so that we will receive only one copy. [ ] 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.

BAHÁ’Í NATIONAL CENTER Wilmette, Illinois 60091

PEACE SQUARE

On June 14, the Unisphere at Flushing Meadow (New York) Park, site of the 1933 World's Fair, was rededicated to peace. As a part of the festival, 68 public schools in Queens were invited to take part in a peace poster contest.

Only one—Forest Hills High School, where a Bahá’í, Vivian Bergenthal, teaches commercial art—responded. Mrs. Bergenthal (pictured here with some of the results) gave her students the task of creating posters for the festival.

When she later mentioned to the organizer that she was a Bahá’í, he invited the Bahá’ís to have a table at the festival with 23 other peace organizations in Queens.

Peace

(From page 27)

...of leaders will be a related event, will come about independently of any direct Bahá’í plan or action.

The following reply was written on behalf of the beloved Guardian in a letter dated 14 March 1939 to an individual believer:

"...Your view that the Lesser Peace will come about through the political efforts of the states and nations of the world, and independently of any direct Bahá’í plan or effort, and the Most Great Peace established through the instrumentality of the believers, and by the direct operation of the laws and principles revealed by Bahá’u’lláh and the functioning of the Universal House of Justice as the supreme organ of the Bahá’í super state—your view on this subject is quite correct and in full accord with the pronouncements of the Guardian as embodied in the 'Unfoldment of World Civilization.'"

It is clear, then, that the friends must respect the prerogatives of political leaders in this matter and allow them the latitude to exercise the initiative that only they can effectively take toward the establishment of the Lesser Peace.

The fact that Bahá’í institutions will not be directly involved in the eventual convocation of the world leaders and in effecting the political unity of nations does not mean that the Bahá’ís are standing aside and waiting for the Lesser Peace to come before they do something about the peace of humanity.

Indeed, by promoting the principles of the Faith, which are indispensable to the maintenance of peace, by living the Teachings, and by fashioning the instruments of the Bahá’í Administrative Order, which we are told by the beloved Guardian is the pattern for future society, the Bahá’ís are constantly engaged in laying the foundation for world peace, the Most Great Peace being their ultimate goal.

The Bahá’ís should do whatever they can within the context of their Bahá’í teaching and consolidation plans and also through their professional and other regular activities to promulgate universal peace.

Concerning your specific questions, the details of your current activities to promote peace should be taken up with your National Spiritual Assembly and its guidance followed.

The grassroots effort of the Bahá’ís should prepare the ground for the transition from the present system of national sovereignty to a system of world government. This it can do by concentrating on wide and continual dissemination of the peace statement whose contents should be known by the generality of humanity, on engaging people from all walks of life in discussions on peace, and on instilling and encouraging a sense of personal commitment to the prerequisites of peace.

In a word, what is needed now is a world-wide consciousness of not only the requirements but also the possibility, and inevitability, of peace. Therefore, our immediate and inescapable task as Bahá’ís is to imbue the populations with such hope.

The language of any proposed resolution and related details should, of course, be left to the legislators concerned. The House of Justice has no objection if the language used in such resolutions is drawn from or based upon the peace statement, and it is not necessary that any credit be given to the Faith for any ideas which may be attributable to the statement.

The House of Justice greatly appreciates the spirit of urgency and involvement conveyed by your letter. It assures you of its ardent prayers at the Holy Shrines that you and all the other friends engaged in peace activities may be guided and confirmed by the Blessed Beauty.

Master's visit marked in Butte, Montana

Fifty non-Bahá’ís were among the 82 people who attended a celebration in Butte, Montana, of the 75th anniversary of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit to North America.

A borrowed banner, "America, a Sampler of the World—Bahá’ís of Butte" was used during the program, which featured Native American dances by the Butte Indian Youth Dance Group.

Among the visitors who took part were Bahá’í families from California and Washington state.

Utah Souvenir Picnic

Sixty-three people attended a Souvenir picnic held July 27 in Kaysville, Utah. The featured speakers were Davis County Commissioner Glen Saunders; Dr. Jalil Mahmoudi; and Mrs. Clover Sanders, a local Bahá’í businesswoman.

Paul Webb played two pieces for classical guitar, and the children had a piñata.