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April 1912: Master greets the friends in New York City

On April 11, 1912, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá arrived in New York City aboard the ship Cedric. Later that same day, at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Edward B. Kinney, 780 West End Avenue, He welcomed the friends with His first talk in North America. The full talk is presented here from notes taken by Hooper Harris.

How are you? Welcome! Welcome!

After arriving today, although weary with travel, I had the utmost longing and yearning to see you and could not resist this meeting. Now that I have met you, all my weariness has vanished, for your meeting is the cause of spiritual happiness.

I was in Egypt and was not feeling well, but I wished to come to you in America. My friends said, "This is a long journey; the sea is wide; you should remain here." But the more they advised and insisted, the greater became my longing to take this trip, and now I have come to America to meet the friends of God. This long voyage will prove how great is my love for you. There were many troubles and vicissitudes, but, in the thought of meeting you, all these things vanished and were forgotten.

I am greatly pleased with the city of New York. Its harbor entrance, its piers, buildings and broad avenues are magnificent and beautiful. Truly, it is a wonderful city. As New York has made such progress in material civilization, I hope that it may also advance spiritually in the Kingdom and Covenant of God so that the friends here may become the cause of the illumination of America, that this city may become the city of love and that the fragrances of God may be spread.

Women's Conference charts course toward clear equality

"Equality Is the Responsibility of All" was the theme of a wide-ranging and inspirational National Women's Conference held February 20-22 at the North Shore Hilton Hotel in Skokie, Illinois.

The conference was sponsored by the Bahá’í National Committee on Women for the liaisons who represent communities across the country.

Several months ago the committee wrote to each U.S. Assembly and Group asking that they appoint a liaison to serve as a contact person to the committee. Liaisons are responsible for initiating local women's activities and forming consultative groups to provide a forum in which ideas and issues regarding the equality of women and men can be explored and examined in a supportive environment.

Of the nearly 300 people who attended the conference in Skokie (conference planners had expected 100-150), most were liaisons, and the others were men and women who had heard about the conference and came to support it and to take back to their communities an action agenda for change.

Participants at Saturday morning's plenary session were welcomed by Dr. Robert Henderson, secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly, who said the American Bahá’í community has given lip service to the issue of equality as the responsibility of all, in effect trivializing it, and added that we must move forward in our understanding of the importance of the principle of the equality of men and women.

The purpose and goals of the conference, its spirit and unity, were continually enhanced by the splendid roster of speakers which included Marvin Hughes on the evolving role of men; Dr. Alberta Deas and Judge Dorothy Nelson, both members of the National Spiritual Assembly and liaisons to the National Committee on Women, speaking on women's experience on a decision-making level; Ruby Gubatayao, chairman of the American Indian Teaching Committee; and author Bahiyyih Nakhjavani.

Dr. Wilma Brady, a member of the Continental Board of Counselors, brought a healing message with her reflections on the words of the prayer, "O God, refresh and gladden my spirit...".

Each of the members of the National Committee on Women addressed pertinent aspects of the conference theme, and one of its members, Ernestine Berkey, emceed the entire event. The other members of the committee are Juana Conrad (chair).

Left photo: The 'Spirit of the Roses' was very much in evidence at the National Women's Conference held February 20-22 at the North Shore Hilton Hotel in Skokie, Illinois. Right: Sunday's keynote speaker, the Rev. Motlalepula Chabaku, a South African exile now living in North Carolina, speaks forcefully about the role of women, especially Bahá’ís, in the peace process.

Correspondence regarding the National Women's Conference

Loving greetings and gratitude to revered House of Justice from more than 270 women representing 46 states, some men, and friends of Faith, attending splendidly planned and executed National Women's Conference held Skokie, Illinois, February 20-22, 1987, opened by prayers House of Worship for Charles Wolcott. Two cherished hopes Master in process realization: the emancipation of women and the coming together of black and white in unific cooperation. All realize need for courage and commitment to put into practice in own communities results of expanded minds and hearts as we arise to emulate example of the Greatest Holy Leaf, whose presence felt by all in this remarkable gathering. Participants National Women's Conference February 23, 1987

Deeply touched message participants National Women's Conference recently held shadow House of Worship. Assure ardent prayers Holy Shrines their noble aspirations will be fulfilled. Universal House of Justice February 26, 1987

Woman's efforts reflect spirit of "days of victory" campaign

Only a few days remain before the period of 189 "days of victory" dedicated to the Iranian Bahá’ís ends on April 26, the final day of the National Convention.

Our accomplishments during this time have been tremendous. It will take some time to compile all the responses in the "Spirit of the Roses" for the journal that is to be sent to the Universal House of Justice in honor of the Bahá’ís of Iran.

The American Bahá’í community has moved to a new level of activity and understanding of the power that can be released in the spirit of sacrifice.

Through our efforts we are now more aware of what the Universal House of Justice was referring to when it stated that "we shall be astonished at the accession of power which will result to the whole body, and which in its turn will give rise to further growth and the showering of greater blessings on all of us."

Our community will never be quite the same as it was before we received the marvelous gift of roses from our beloved brothers and sisters in Iran.

We should remember that the true essence of the "Spirit of the Roses" does not flow from a temporary source of inspiration and power, but from a constant source.

BULLETIN!

The following message from the Universal House of Justice was received on March 20:

WARMLY WELCOME NEWLY ELECTED MEMBER HOUSE JUSTICE PETER KHAN. [Page 2]

‘Abdu’l-Bahá, House of Justice affirm woman’s eminent status

To the Women of the American Bahá’í community

Dear Handmaidens of God:

The National Committee on Women extends its loving greetings to you in this first year of the fourth epoch of the Formative Age of the Faith. At a time when the fragrance of the “spirit of the roses” is everywhere, we are moved to remind you of the following words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá:

“The realities of things have been revealed in this radiant century, and that which is true must come to the surface. Among these realities is the principle of the equality of men and women—equal rights and prerogatives in all things appertaining to humanity.” (The Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 283)

The National Committee on Women has the joyous task of concentrating its efforts on the dissemination of the realities specifically addressed to women. The “Pen of Truth” has obliterated the reservoir of negative latent images which women have inherited from their past.

What better ways can the Bahá’í women of America express praise and gratitude for such a bestowal than by supporting fully the “spirit of the roses” through teaching, contributing to the Fund, raising up local Spiritual Assemblies, proclaiming the Faith, working for peace, and serving the social and economic development needs of humankind? Is this not the fulfillment of the potential and destiny of women so strongly presented in the compilation released recently by the Universal House of Justice, a compilation that calls our attention to such significant concepts as:

• The conferring of equal station and rank upon men and women.
• The importance of women’s education to world peace.
• The role that mothers must play in the education of children.
• A clear statement that woman has been denied the opportunities which man has so long enjoyed.
• A clear statement that she is superior to man in her moral courage, her intensity of intuition, her tender-heartedness, her receptivity.
• A clear statement that man’s greatness cannot be realized until woman has attained her highest possibilities.

The vision of women conveyed in this compilation cannot fail to stir the hearts of all sincere believers. The National Committee on Women is choosing, however, to make a special appeal to the women of the American Bahá’í community, in the “spirit of the roses,” to arise as never before and increase their services to the Faith and their support of the Fund.

May they follow in the footsteps of such Bahá’í heroines as Martha Root, Lua Getsinger, Amelia Collins and Elsie Austin in demonstrating the spiritual capacity and ability set forth so clearly in the Bahá’í Writings. Women have always rushed to meet the needs of the American Bahá’í community, and we are confident that they will not fail to do so again.

With loving greetings,

National Committee on Women March 1987

In Oregon, panel discussion marks World Religion Day

More than 50 non-Bahá’ís were among those who attended a World Religion Day program in January sponsored by the Bahá’ís of Illinois Valley, Oregon.

A panel discussion by five religious leaders on “Spiritual Foundations of World Peace” was followed by a question period and refreshments.

Panelists included a Native American, a Protestant minister, a Catholic priest, a Jewish rabbi, and a Bahá’í.

Prior to the program, posters had been put up around town, and four Bahá’ís had driven 30 miles from Grants Pass to distribute invitations door-to-door in the rain.

The four local Bahá’ís had baked 50 dozen cookies and, at the end of the afternoon, gave out small plastic bags so panel members and others could take some cookies home with them.

Two seekers later attended a follow-up meeting.

On November 23, the Bahá’í community of Winter Springs, Florida, accomplished one of its goals for the first year of the Six Year Plan, that of having a float in the community’s annual holiday parade. Bahá’ís from five other communities accepted an invitation to walk with the float, which drew cheers all along the parade route and won the second prize trophy.

Make your plans now to ‘travel’ across America with ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

“So, tell me about this ‎Bahai Bahá’í‎ Faith of yours!” —By Heidi Burns, Lakewood, Ohio

VIEWPOINT

Make your travel plans today!

The 75th anniversary of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s historic trip to North America—the diamond jubilee—is an excellent opportunity for each of us to embark on a unique study of the special message the Master brought to our fledgling community.

How can we begin such a study? By resolving to “accompany” ‘Abdu’l-Bahá on his eight-month tour of North America by reading daily from The Promulgation of Universal Peace and by following the trip as He criss-crossed the U.S. and Canada.

Your ticket. You may already have your ticket on your bookshelf—a copy of The Promulgation of Universal Peace. If you don’t own or can’t borrow a copy, there’s still time to obtain your ticket. The book is available from the Bahá’í Distribution Service, 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091.

Your itinerary. You’re going to need a copy of the itinerary yourself, and your family and friends will want to know where you are going to be. For handy reference, photocopy the list of dates and places on pages 473-78 in The Promulgation of Universal Peace.

Extra luggage. The trip is going to last eight months, and traveling with the Master will be the event of a lifetime. But for free moments here and there, you’ll want to bring along (or make arrangements to borrow) some “travel” books to illuminate the various places you’ll be visiting:

• ‘Abdu’l-Bahá: The Centre of the Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh. H.M. Balyúzi’s biography of the Master includes a colorful account of His visit to North America.
• The Dawning Place. Bruce Whitmore’s history of the House of Worship in Wilmette contains a vivid description of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visits to Chicago and His laying the dedication stone on the Temple grounds.
• The Diary of Juliet Thompson. An eyewitness account of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s sojourns in New York City, Washington, and at Green Acre.
• Portals to Freedom. Howard Colby Ives, at one time a Unitarian minister, reveals his spiritual quest as he follows ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to many of His talks.
• To Move the World, Gayle Morrison’s biography of Louis G. Gregory, the first black Hand of the Cause of God, describes ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s efforts to foster race unity in America.
• 239 Days: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Journey in America. Allan L. Ward’s book provides excellent background reading on places where ‘Abdu’l-Bahá stopped, the reception given Him by and in the press, and the impressions of Bahá’ís who met Him.
• Youth in the Vanguard. Marion Carpenter Yazdi, the first Bahá’í student at Berkeley and at Stanford University, tells the story of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit to the San Francisco Bay area.

This month’s column on the 75th anniversary of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit to North America was written by Dr. Betty J. Fisher, general editor of the Bahá’í Publishing Trust, and her editorial assistant, Richard A. Hill.

Your journey. April 11, 1912, New York City: All aboard. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s ship, the Cedric, docks today. You and hundreds of others are invited to welcome Him at the Hotel Ansonia (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, pp. 172-73). He tells you that His purpose in coming is “to set forth in America the fundamental principles of the revelation and teachings of Bahá’u’lláh.”

April 12-19, New York City: Among your stops is Columbia University, where you hear ‘Abdu’l-Bahá speak about science and humanity’s mastery over nature. You also visit the Bowery Mission and see the Master give pieces of silver to hundreds of poor but delighted new friends. See Promulgation, pp. 3-34; 239 Days, pp. 13-36; and The Diary of Juliet Thompson, pp. 231-66, to relive ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s first week in the U.S.

April 20-28, Washington, D.C.: At Howard University you hear ‘Abdu’l-Bahá call for race amity and an end to distinctions based on color. Later, you join the Esperantists for an address on international language. Finally, you put on your best clothes for a reception at the Parsons home, where ‘Abdu’l-Bahá meets Admiral Peary, members of Congress, and other distinguished guests. (See ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 184; Promulgation, pp. 35-64; To Move the World, pp. 51-54, and 239 Days, pp. 37-46.)

April 30-May 5: On to Chicago, home of the largest and oldest Bahá’í community on the continent. During the first day there you attend the Bahá’í Temple Unity convention and the annual convention of the NAACP. On the following day you travel to Wilmette, where ‘Abdu’l-Bahá visits the Temple grounds and lays the dedication stone (Dawning Place, pp. 57-65). See also Promulgation, pp. 65-100, and 239 Days, pp. 47-57.

May 6-June 28: After short stays in Cleveland, Pittsburgh and Washington, you are in and around New York, Boston and Philadelphia for the next several weeks. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá speaks at churches, peace societies, and at a woman’s suffrage meeting. (Promulgation, pp. 101-213, and 239 Days, pp. 59-95.)

June 29: Today you are in West

See VIEWPOINT page 8

Office of External Affairs serves as National Assembly’s ‘executive arm’

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

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

All Bahá’í administrative agencies as well as individuals who have dealings with the federal government or officials with national organizations or media should maintain close contact with the National Spiritual Assembly through its Office of External Affairs which is located at 26 High St., New Haven, CT 06510 (telephone 203-787-0303).

National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States Firuz Kazemzadeh, vice-chairman and director of the Office of External Affairs [Page 3]“The shining spark of truth cometh forth only after the clash of differing opinions.” — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

The American Bahá’í welcomes letters to the editor on any topic of general interest. The purpose of the “letters” column is to allow a free and open exchange of ideas and opinions, never to denigrate another’s opinion or to attack anyone on a personal level.

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

On substance abuse

To the Editor:

Forty Bahá’ís and friends of the Faith including representatives of Assemblies and treatment centers attended a conference on substance abuse January 23-25 at the Louhelen Bahá’í School.

Those assembled felt strongly that the substance abuse problems in our society are impinging on the Bahá’í community in many ways and to such a degree that there is a major need to educate the Bahá’í community about the dynamics of substance abuse.

Bahá’í’s—individuals, families and communities—need to learn how to recognize and respond to these problems.

We recommend that the National Spiritual Assembly establish a task force or otherwise directly address this need for education in the community.

We found the conference productive, and recommend that more such conferences be held to include professionals from outside the Bahá’í community.

We further recommend that The American Bahá’í, through its letters to the editor, be used as a forum for discussing the issues, educating the community, and helping Bahá’í’s to develop a productive understanding of the issues and counteract the denial syndrome that seems to permeate the community.

The participants in the Conference on Substance Abuse,

Louhelen Bahá’í School,

January 23-25, 1987

Keeping children at home

To the Editor:

Charlotte Solarz’ letter (January) advocating keeping children longer in the home—perhaps even as late as the age of 10—ignores the adverse effects of such actions.

This is analogous to keeping a child in a germ-free environment so that the child will become so strong that he will never be sick again, even when exposed to the outside environment.

Of course, the opposite is true. The child would have such a weakened immune system that he would risk his very life by encountering anyone who was actually sick.

Socially speaking, the principle remains true. Along with exposing the child to prayers and other Bahá’í children, parents should thank God each time their little darling is exposed to the “bad side” of life. It helps build the child’s “spiritual immune system.”

A child’s self-confidence and self-identity are formed only in relation to his or her ability to handle “people” situations. Parents who isolate a child will find the child timid (often misinterpreted as “well-behaved”) and quite prone as a teen-ager to spiritual diseases.

Children who are social outcasts (those who love the world but dislike individuals) will be of little use in helping to build a new World Order.

Glenn M. Chumley

Marion, Iowa

People must secure peace

To the Editor:

For peace and stability, we can no longer hope that the world leaders get together; therefore, we the people of the world must get together.

I think each person should have as an objective getting to know at least one person of another race or nationality each year.

Perhaps this is what God wants us to do these days, even if the person is of the opposite sex and the relationship leads to marriage.

Especially in this country, we have people of many races and nationalities. Let us extend our idea of unity to the whole world, rather than be limited to this country. That is God’s way.

I think we need a universal system of marriage that makes the connection.

Such a system is now possible because the whole of knowledge is manifest in this new era. Conferences and the news media are good but limited, and only those who are aggressive will succeed.

Besides that, we should not go to conferences only to find a spouse: “Do not make your deeds a snare of your desires.”

We need a world-encompassing and efficient system that enhances world stability and peace.

Farrokh Sabeti

Dearborn, Michigan

We mustn’t ‘label’ arts

To the Editor:

I would like to address an issue that has troubled me since I joined the Faith in 1980, namely, the error of labeling arts and sciences, which can result in serious misunderstandings.

Let me preface this by saying that the spiritual channel of music led me to Bahá’u’lláh, through association with musicians who happened to be Bahá’ís (not “Bahá’í musicians”).

I thank God that I could see the essence in action before hearing the name, that I could read the Creative Word, having been prepared by this “food of the soul and spirit.” Had it been otherwise, had I been confronted by the label before the concept, I probably would not be a Bahá’í today.

For many artists and scientists, work is worship and their sincerest form of prayer—perhaps their only means of prayer. Such was my case upon discovering the Bahá’í writings.

Fortunately, the dear, patient soul who taught me by his deeds realized that labeling is no shortcut to understanding.

In fact, it can actually create detours and road blocks, defeating the purpose of communication. Where it aims for unity, it can cause disunity, a feeling of “us and them” isolationism that is spiritually dangerous. As far as I can tell from the Writings, there is no “us” and “them”; there is only all of us together on the planet.

Knowledge is God’s gift to all humanity, “a light which He casteth into the heart of whomsoever He willeth.” When the reflective faculty is rightly focused, arts and sciences can unite and inspire, demonstrating the power of the Holy Spirit in action.

Since this power is infinite, it cannot be labeled or divided (i.e., Jewish, Christian, Buddhist, Bahá’í, etc.). It is for all humanity.

Thus, there really is no such thing as “Bahá’í music,” “Jewish science,” or “Christian art.” There is work that reflects the essence of these teachings, and work based on or incorporating the Holy Word.

For the benefit of all, we should experience, understand and share this work rather than label it. The distinction is essential if we are to avoid creating needless barriers; we cannot hope to unite unless we first stop dividing.

Similarly, there are no “Christian artists,” “Jewish musicians,” “Buddhist scientists,” etc., but rather those whose beliefs are reflected in their life and work.

Many artists and scientists, I believe, would feel less alienated and more attracted to the Faith if we could simply correct this error of labeling their work.

The Guardian stated clearly that the arts and sciences would be freed in the New World Order, and would not be subject to enslavement by any ideology.

This illustrates his profound understanding of and respect for the most crucial element in the creative process, namely, the individual’s right to condition his own faith. This is what drew me to Bahá’u’lláh, a blessing for which I am eternally grateful.

Christine Keller

Evanston, Illinois

‘Home’ is where heart is

To the Editor:

The January issue was extremely interesting to me. My husband phoned me at a friend’s house to tell me it had arrived and that it had three articles on Guatemala.

Like Paula Carson (“Reflections from a young pioneer to Guatemala,” page 7), I am the daughter of U.S. pioneers to Guatemala, and lived there for 10 years, long enough to consider myself a Guatemalan and not want to leave.

When I finally decided to go to college in the U.S. it was with great regret that I left “my country.”

I cannot describe those 10 years in this letter, but I can agree with Paula that “pioneering is one of the greatest experiences one can have.”

What child of 11 years is worldly enough to make a decision to go pioneering? In those days, we kids made decisions based on peer pressure and our own limited experience.

Our parents, who made the pioneering decision for us, gave us a gift we can only repay by passing it on to our own children.

Christy Porter

Seaside, California

What is a fireside?

To the Editor:

I would like to share a few ideas on firesides and deepenings.

What is a fireside? Shoghi Effendi, as I recall, said the best example of a fireside was the one given by the Báb on the eve of His declaration to Mullá Husayn.

I would suggest that each of us deepen on this important meeting and try to define the elements that made this a “fireside.”

Good descriptions of the occasion can be found in The Dawn-Breakers, God Passes By and in several other books and pamphlets.

A couple of personal insights: the Báb chose someone who was truly seeking, invited the seeker to His home and made him feel welcome and special. Refreshments were served; prayers were said.

Before He started talking, the Báb asked Mullá Husayn questions. Proofs that were relevant to Mullá Husayn’s questions were offered. Scripture was quoted. Claims and evidence were forthright and clear.

Finally, the seeker left with a personal challenge and clear instructions.

I am sure many more insights could be drawn from this first fireside of the New Age, and would like to hear others’ perceptions.

On deepenings: At the beginning of our weekly community deepenings, we lay on a table all the books and materials we have from the Central Figures of the Faith. We then decide on a topic, and everyone is given 5-10 minutes to find something in one of the books on that topic. Afterward, we take turns reading and discussing what we have found.

Suggestion: Make sure there is a Bible and Koran present (or other scriptures), as there is much we can find and learn from them too.

It’s a bit more challenging finding a text, as there is usually no index (unless you have a concordance or are quite familiar with them).

If you are lucky enough to have Persians or other believers who have texts in other languages, have them bring what they have in their native tongue. They may be able to bring out something that was overlooked because of our own language/translation/understanding barriers.

This method has been a real inspiration to our community, and we feel we are getting a lot more out of our deepenings than before when we read from cover to cover a certain book and then discussed it.

Another suggestion: Start each session with a “brief recap” of the previous deepening. This may spark a question that was left unanswered or perhaps uncover a related topic that needs further study.

Chris Miller

Lakeport, California

Dream of ‘Tree of Life’

To the Editor:

I had a dream, and this is what I recall from it.

I saw a tree in my yard. It had been given to me as a gift.

I was told that if I watered the tree regularly it would be a “Tree of Life” for me and my neighbors (the world). It would give us the “first fruits.” There would be enough for all.

However, it must be kept healthy, vigorous and strong, otherwise it would be of no benefit to us (mankind). If maintained properly—that is, watered regularly every 19 days—it would give us cool shade when the summer sun beat down.

This “Tree of Life” is also known as the National Bahá’í Fund, the “life-blood” of the Cause of God.

There were so many distractions around me, like baseball, football, soap operas, school, lessons, you name it, to draw my attention from the tree that I forgot to water it regularly.

As a result, it started to wilt and to lose its luster, the buds began to fall which meant less fruit, if any, and my neighbors started to fight and to argue with me.

My car tires went flat (I forgot to put air in them) and my battery went dead (no water; I forgot). The doors and fenders began to rust. “Oh, no,” I thought, I had...

See LETTERS page 35

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256 pages. Hardcover $15.95, Softcover $7.95

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

Women

from page 1

man), Nancy Dobbins (secretary), Shiva Tavana and Dr. Phyllis Gudger-Porter.

Sunday morning’s keynote speaker was the Rev. Motlalepula Chabaku, a South African expatriate now living in North Carolina, whose impassioned call to women, and Bahá’ís in particular, brought a standing ovation.

“You have the answer!” she told her audience. “Take it to the people!”

In a stirring response to the Rev. Chabaku’s address, Bahiyyih Nakhjavani hailed the spirit of the Greatest Holy Leaf as being graciously present at the conference.

An unscheduled bounty was the presentation of two talks by children, nine-year-old Errol Doris and 10-year-old Saba Firoozi, both of whom are in a public speaking project for children conducted by Knight of Bahá’u’lláh Gayle Woolson of Evanston.

The celebration of women in the arts was interspersed throughout the agenda with performances and presentations of music, drama, dance, poetry and graphic arts.

Ladjamaya Green dramatized the black experience through the poem “For My People” by Margaret Walker; Carol Rutstein and Cathy Higgins sang prayers set to music; Anne Gordon Atkinson and Michelle Broussard danced; Donna Sires spoke of her art; Sharon Nesbit-Davis mimed the pathos of losing a son to war; Vicki Hu Poirier’s slide presentation shared the stages in the creation of her tapestry of “Women’s Work” that now hangs in the House of Worship in India as a gift to the women of that country from the women of America; and Donna Kime entertained with songs.

The conference, which had opened Friday evening with attendance at a memorial service at the Bahá’í House of Worship for Charles Wolcott, a member of the Universal House of Justice who died January 26, closed Sunday afternoon with all hearts aglow and fired with the spirit to help achieve “the emancipation of women, the full equality between the sexes,” described by the Universal House of Justice in “The Promise of World Peace” as “one of the most important, though less acknowledged prerequisites of peace.” — Dr. Phyllis Gudger-Porter

Left: Participants in the National Women’s Conference receive rose petals from the Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh. Right: Cathy Giebitz Higgins sings a prayer set to music.

CHAMPION BUILDERS

ROBERT S. ABBOTT

“The news of Mr. Abbott’s acceptance of the Faith has brought deep satisfaction and joy to Shoghi Effendi’s heart. He is fully aware of the possibilities that such an acceptance involves. He will pray that Mr. Abbott may increasingly realize the importance and challenging character and the implications of the principles and teachings of Bahá’u’lláh, that he may feel prompted to unreservedly, publicly, and universally uphold them.” (From a letter of September 10, 1934, written on behalf of the Guardian to the U.S. National Spiritual Assembly)

Robert S. Abbott, founder and editor of the Chicago Defender, a leading black newspaper, was enrolled in the Faith in 1934.

In his dissertation at the University of Chicago, “The Chicago Bahá’í Community, 1921-1939,” Mark Perry, a Bahá’í who now teaches at Kansas University, writes:

“It appears that though he (Mr. Abbott) did not formally enroll in the Faith until 1934, his association with the Bahá’í community had been consistent and enduring. The 1924-25 Chicago Bahá’í membership list included Abbott and his wife, probably as affiliated seekers interested in the Cause and well-known members of the community. (Chicago Bahá’í membership list, Alfred Lunt papers, National Bahá’í Archives)

“It should also be noted that Abbott was a member of the Chicago Commission on Race Relations which conducted the inquiry into the causes of the 1919 Chicago race riot and published the report, The Negro in Chicago, in which is described in detail the bombings of the homes of Bahá’ís Mr. and Mrs. Clarke.”

In his biography of Mr. Abbott, The Lonely Warrior, Roi Ottley writes:

“The man’s endless search for racial peace led him finally to the Bahá’í Faith. This is not as sensational as it sounds. As with everything else, Abbott judged a religion by the degree to which racial equality was practiced; moreover, like the Chinese, Negroes care little for religious stratifications.

“Abbott had been brought up in the Congregational Church in which his stepfather, Rev. Sengstacke, was a missionary. When

See ABBOTT page 13

Most of all, refugees need love, to feel they are part of ‘family’

During the past year 429 Persian Bahá’í refugees have come to the U.S. from Pakistan. Their arrival in this country is, of course, a major step on the way to establishing a new life for themselves.

The mere fact that they have reached the U.S., however, does not mean that their ordeal is at an end. Once they reach America, they must begin the arduous task of orienting themselves to an alien culture, where even a trip to the grocery store or paying an electric bill can be confusing and discomfiting.

To help Americans understand more about the culture and expectations of the Iranians in our midst, the National Persian/American Affairs Committee has published a booklet, Iranian Refugees in America: A Cross-Cultural Perspective, to help American Bahá’ís help the Persian Bahá’ís adjust to their new home.

What the Bahá’í refugees need most is not donations of clothes or funds, important though they are, but care and concern and personal friendship.

Most of all, they need to feel welcome in this country, to feel that they are our brethren in the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh, to feel the familial love that each and every member of a truly unified Bahá’í community anywhere in the world displays for one another.

How can we best show our love for the refugees? Local Bahá’í communities can organize welcoming parties to greet the new arrivals at the airport. Individual Bahá’ís can pledge to invite a local refugee family to their home one night each week.

Various friends can volunteer to take them shopping, help them obtain a driver’s license, explain the process of getting a job, or give them an opportunity to practice their English. The best way to begin is to offer the refugees our friendship.

It is normal for refugees to feel helpless in the face of the new culture and society that confronts them, and in addition to coping with this culture shock, refugees often experience “survivors’ guilt”—feelings of guilt for having escaped the holocaust back home to which some of their friends or family members have fallen victim.

To help them re-establish themselves in their new home, we must shower them with love and affection. We must help them become acclimated to life in America, and we must help them to participate in the work of the Faith in this country.

The Persian friends may feel that they are not qualified to serve the Faith here; they may not speak English well, they may not know anything about the cultural beliefs or practices of Americans, they may not be accustomed to volunteering for or serving on committees.

In short, they may think that they are incapable of contributing to the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh in this country.

We know, however, that this is not the case. If we can impart to the Persian friends a vision of the role they can play in the achievement of the destiny of the American Bahá’í community, they will wholeheartedly arise to share in the work.

If we seek them out to serve on committees, seek their advice, listen to their experience of having lived in Bahá’í communities in Iran, we may profit greatly from their contribution, and they, in turn, will be strengthened in their resolve to serve the Cause here.

The Bahá’ís of America should not look on the presence of the Iranian believers in their midst as an accident or a burden. Rather, it is a golden opportunity for us, not only to learn from the Bahá’í experience of the Persian friends, but also to integrate more completely our Bahá’í communities and to demonstrate the unity of the family of man.

This goal is of paramount importance for the Bahá’í community at this stage in its growth, for the Universal House of Justice has offered the peoples of the world, in “The Promise of World Peace,” the experience of the Bahá’í community as a model for study.

Group of Bahá’í ham radio operators ‘get together,’ share ideas as NABARS

Peter Jorgensen, a member of NABARS (North American Bahá’í Amateur Radio Service), at his listening post in Balboa, Panama.

A group of Bahá’ís in North America who are amateur ham radio operators have formed an association in which to share their common interests.

NABARS (North American Bahá’í Amateur Radio Service) publishes a monthly newsletter, and its members “get together” via weekend short-wave radio meetings.

Usually, participants check in from Canada, the U.S. and Panama, although radio contact has been made with Bahá’ís in Dominica, St. Vincent, and even Israel.

Their hobby is more than social. Last year, for example, ham radio operators got the word out to the U.S. and the World Center that Bahá’ís in El Salvador were all right following an earthquake in that country.

Peter Jorgensen in Panama picked up that message from ham Quentin Farrand in El Salvador, and relayed it to Counselor Ruth Pringle, who telephoned the news to the World Center.

Although meetings are on weekends, the operators are on the air every day, performing many services on behalf of Bahá’ís in their area.

Those who would like information about amateur radio operations or NABARS should contact the newsletter’s editor, Mark Clark, 3318-B Throckmorton, Fort Worth, TX 76114.

Tennessee Bahá’í wins scholarship at College of Law

Edda Erroll, a member of the Spiritual Assembly of Knoxville, Tennessee, and a first-year student at the University of Tennessee’s College of Law, has received the first Judge Frank W. Wilson Scholarship from the Community Foundation of Chattanooga.

Ms. Erroll, who served as a pioneer to Finland from 1973-82, also has been appointed to the university chancellor’s Commission for Blacks. [Page 5]

THE FUNDS

The "budget crunch" is not a breakfast cereal or a new dance; it's that feeling we get when our expenses exceed our income. As a community, this feeling begins anew in April when we, "individually and collectively," assess our resources and establish goals for the new year.

The Six Year Plan urges "grass-roots initiatives." Local Spiritual Assemblies and Groups must also take the initiative and devise ways to work together during budget time.

For example, the Bahá’í community of Lakeport, California, has developed a way of setting up its budget and encouraging 100 per cent participation.

In the "Spirit of the Roses," they have shared their plan with us. They follow three simple steps:

1. Each member of the community is asked to submit anonymously the minimum amount he or she can contribute each Bahá’í month... no matter how small the amount. 2. The treasurer totals the amount, and the budget is set. 3. After that, it's up to the individual to keep his pledge.

The Lakeport treasurer says the community "usually reaches (its) goal before the end of the year and exceeds the amounts allocated to each Fund and activity."

As the Guardian has reminded us, "It is only evident that unless the flow of donations is regularly maintained by means of generous and continual support by all the believers, individually and collectively, the National Fund will never be able to meet the needs and requirements of the Cause."

Certainly, there is a strong link between the health of the Local and National Funds. How will you, "individually and collectively," manage the "budget crunch"?

Bahá’ís from Vermont met at Green Acre

Bahá’ís from Vermont met December 6-7 at the Green Acre Bahá’í School in Maine for the second annual "Love and Unity Weekend." Highlights included talks by Ray LaBell, Green Acre's director of operations, and Robert Armbruster of the National Assembly's Properties Committee, about the possibilities for restoration at Green Acre; a workshop by Carolyn Cruikshank, a member of the Spiritual Assembly of Rochester, Vermont; and an evening talent show featuring music and poetry.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá

...from this place to all parts of the world. I have come for this. I pray that you may be manifestations of the love of Bahá’u’lláh, that each one of you may become like a clear lamp of crystal from which the rays of the bounties of the Blessed Perfection may shine forth to all nations and peoples. This is my highest aspiration.

It was a long, long trip. The more we traveled, the greater seemed the expanse of the sea. The weather was brilliant and fine throughout; there was no storm and no end to the sea.

I am very happy to meet you all here today. Praise be to God that your faces are shining with the love of Bahá’u’lláh. To behold them is the cause of great spiritual happiness. We have arranged to meet you every day at the homes of the friends.

In the East people were asking me, "Why do you undertake this long voyage? Your body cannot endure such hardships of travel." When it is necessary, my body can endure everything. It has withstood 40 years of imprisonment and can still undergo the utmost trials.

I will see you again. Now I will greet each one of you personally. It is my hope that you will all be happy and that we may meet again and again.

Reprinted from The Promulgation of Universal Peace: Talks Delivered by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá during His Visit to the United States and Canada in 1912, pp. 3-4. Copyright 1982 by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States.

Milwaukee marks World Religion Day

Nearly 200 people were present January 17 as the Bahá’í community of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, presented its third annual World Religion Day observance.

The program, titled "Religion: Remembrance of the Creator," was held at Alverno College. It featured representatives of the Zoroastrian, Hindu, Jewish, Buddhist, Native American, Islamic, Christian and Bahá’í communities, each of whom gave a short talk or performance to illustrate their faiths' concepts of the Creator.

The Faith was represented by George and Sharon Davis of Rockford, Illinois, who performed dramatic readings and a mime piece.

Most of the audience stayed for a social hour afterward to talk with the speakers and each other. Several of the speakers were participating for the third year.

THE FUNDS

The Automatic Contribution System (ACS), unveiled during the 1985 National Convention, is designed as a convenient way of giving regularly to the National Fund.

As we begin a new fiscal year, your local Spiritual Assembly or Group may wish to consider participating in ACS through your community checking account. ACS assures that even when your Assembly or Group cannot meet, its budgeted contribution will be regularly sent to the National Fund.

Some communities (and individuals) have expressed the concern that ACS removes the spontaneity and inspiration associated with giving to the National Fund each month. But communities that take part in ACS note that they can satisfy this desire by sending additional contributions by check on special occasions or when unexpected "windfall" contributions are received.

Thus, the satisfaction of knowing that the budgeted amount will go to the Fund whether "the treasurer gets around to it or not" and the convenience of supporting all the Funds through one-withdrawal really seems to appeal to a number of communities which have opted to use the system.

While ACS may not be appropriate for everyone, especially for those Groups that have trouble maintaining a minimum balance in their checking accounts, it does appear to be a "win-win" situation for most larger communities and for the National Treasurer's Office, both in terms of sending and receiving contributions.

Letter from a friend

Dear Friends,

From time immemorial I have served Bahá’u’lláh's servants throughout the world. I have supported the work at the World Center of Bahá’u’lláh's Faith. I have helped maintain the work of other Bahá’í institutions throughout the world, the Hands of the Cause, the Continental Boards of Counselors, the National Spiritual Assemblies, the Auxiliary Board members, the local Spiritual Assemblies and the assistants.

I have built Bahá’í schools, Temples and Centers, and have supported full-time Bahá’í teachers and Bahá’í teaching projects. I have sent Bahá’í traveling teachers to the east of the earth and to the west thereof. I have sponsored great Bahá’í local, national and international conferences and conventions. It is I who takes care of the Bahá’í representative at the United Nations and those representatives at other non-governmental organizations. From the beginning, I have been laboring night and day.

Friends, I have withstood the test of many generations. I have given to millions longing for the meaning and essence of their existence. I have welcomed millions of men and women from all walks of life seeking rest from their labors of search and uncertainty; seeking peace and security, and a reason for living. In recent years, however, my health has not been too good. The demands of the friends on me, the rising cost of goods and services, inflation, devaluation and the expanding responsibilities of the Faith have weakened my body. Friends, for me to continue to serve you well, you must nourish me always so that I may be healthy to serve you always. Friends, I need you, just as you need me.

Your friend, The Bahá’í Fund

Reprinted from the New Zealand Bahá’í Newsletter November 1986

Automatic Contribution System Forms

Yes, our local Spiritual Assembly, or Group, would like to participate in the Automatic Contribution System!

The National Bahá’í Fund (PRINT FULL NAME) residing at (STREET ADDRESS, CITY STATE & ZIP) hereby authorize the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States to charge my checking account each (gregorian) month the fixed amount of $

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

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

Signed: Bahá’í ID # Date: Home phone: Work phone: Number of participants:

Mail to: NATIONAL BAHÁ’Í FUND Wilmette, IL 60091

Yes, our local Spiritual Assembly, or Group, would like to increase its monthly goal to the Automatic Contribution System!

UPDATED AUTHORIZATION ELECTRONIC BANK TRANSFER MONTHLY

The National Bahá’í Fund residing at hereby authorize the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bands of the United States to change the amount being withdrawn from my checking account each (gregorian month from to $

Return this form in the enclosed blue envelope.

Signed: Bahá’í ID# Date: Home phone Work phone:

Send to: NATIONAL BAHÁ’Í FUND Wilmette, IL 60091 [Page 6]

Devoted pioneer Eleanor Hollibaugh dies in Switzerland

REGRETFULLY ANNOUNCE PASSING DEVOTED, OUTSTANDING PIONEER TEN YEAR PLAN ELEANOR HOLLIBAUGH. ... HER DISTINGUISHED SERVICES SPAN SEVERAL PERIODS UNFOLDMENT ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER AMERICAS AND EUROPE. HER UNASSUMING, ALBEIT DIGNIFIED PERSONALITY, FIRMNESS IN COVENANT, DEDICATED SERVICES SET EXAMPLE FOR FUTURE EUROPEAN GENERATIONS OF BAHA’IS NOW CALLED UPON TO ESTABLISH AND LET EMERGE DIVINE INSTITUTIONS IN FOURTH EPOCH FORMATIVE AGE IN OLD CONTINENT. ... NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY SWITZERLAND

ELEANOR HOLLIBAUGH

With these words the National Spiritual Assembly of Switzerland announced the passing of steadfast and long-time pioneer Eleanor Hollibaugh on February 15 at the age of 89.

Born Eleanor Smith in Hastings, Nebraska, on February 17, 1897, she headed west as a young woman to Los Angeles to seek a career in motion pictures, working as a fashion model, chorus dancer and actress, and was for a time under contract at Warner Brothers.

While in Los Angeles, she married her first husband, writer Felix Adler.

After accepting the Faith in 1939, she responded almost immediately to the call for pioneers during the first Seven Year Plan to settle in the Americas.

Eleanor left in December 1940 for Bolivia. While in that country, she enrolled the first Bolivian Bahá’í, Yvonne Cuellar, before altitude sickness forced her to return to the States the following year.

Undaunted by the setback, Eleanor immediately set about travel-teaching through the southern states and remained as a homefront pioneer in Reno, Nevada, before settling eventually in Glendale, California, where she met and married her second husband, Merle Hollibaugh.

In April 1947, responding to an invitation from Dagmar Dole to join her at her pioneering post in Copenhagen, Denmark, Eleanor set sail for Europe. She and Dagmar made a splendid team, and the work of the Faith in Denmark flourished.

In October 1948 Eleanor moved to Amsterdam, the Netherlands, to help the work there. She spent the following year teaching in Luxembourg before returning to the Netherlands.

In all, Eleanor spent nine years teaching the Faith in the ‘Benelux’ countries until their National Assembly was formed in 1957.

Having accomplished so much already, Eleanor set out for new frontiers in France, settling in Nancy and Dijon, cities the Guardian had mentioned as goals.

Feeling that it was even more important to help form the first National Assembly of Switzerland, in March 1960 she joined Marion Little in Vevey, and one year later the first Local Spiritual Assembly in that city was formed.

Eleanor went on to help form the first Assembly in Montreux, Switzerland, before resettling in Vevey where she remained until her death.

After a lovely funeral service in Glion, Eleanor Hollibaugh was laid to rest not far from her coworker, Dagmar Dole. Upon her passing, the Universal House of Justice cabled this fitting tribute to her many services in the pioneering field:

Passing gracious noble Eleanor Hollibaugh whose patient wise steadfast exemplary service as pioneer Bahá’í world of model of tireless unflinching devotion. Her example worthy emulation pioneers everywhere and notably Europe where rising generations must zealously safeguard seeds she and co-workers planted and ensure bountiful harvest. Universal House of Justice

Opportunity beckons in Caribbean

If you are a seasoned traveling teacher or a first-timer, you’ll find inspiration and happiness serving your Lord in Central America or the Caribbean.

Guatemala offers a teaching project with a pioneering family. Visit and get to know the native people of the coastal regions in Livingston, Guatemala.

Grand Cayman offers a variety of opportunities to support local efforts through visiting seekers, speaking at public meetings, making new contacts, and giving firesides. There you will find a true mixture of the garden of humanity.

Jamaica is a land of pure hearts and receptive souls. Young and old are needed to sustain the teaching work.

Special one-month youth projects are being planned for Guatemala and Jamaica. Begin your planning now. Contact the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

12-year-old Bahá’í pioneer makes debut as concert pianist in Brasília, Brazil

Andre Karel von Frasunkiewicz, a 12-year-old Bahá’í who is pioneering with his parents, Suzanne and Jacques von Frasunkiewicz, in Brasília, Brazil, made his debut as a pianist last December 5 at the University of Brasília, playing works by Mozart, Chopin, Beethoven and several Brazilian composers.

Ney Salgado, an eminent South American concert pianist, praised the young artist and predicted a fine musical future for him.

After the recital, the owner of the FM station in Brasília invited Andre to play on the radio that evening, which he agreed to do. Also, a newspaper reporter asked for an interview.

Knight of Bahá’u’lláh Sa’id Nahvi, 76: was pioneer to India, traveling teacher

SADDENED NEWS PASSING KNIGHT BAHÁ’U’LLÁH SA’ID NAHVI. HIS DEVOTED SERVICE PIONEERING TEACHING FIELDS MANY COUNTRIES UNFORGETTABLE. CONVEY SYMPATHY HIS FAMILY ASSURE PRAYERS PROGRESS SOUL. UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE

Sa’id Nahvi, whose life was marked by steadfast devotion to the Cause in the international and local fields, died in February in Huntington Beach, California. He was 76 years old.

Mr. Nahvi pioneered from Iran to serve the Cause in Pondicherry, India, where he and his wife became Knights of Bahá’u’lláh.

He served for many years as a pioneer in India and Sri Lanka, served on national committees in Iran, and carried out assignments as an international traveling teacher to the Pacific Islands and several countries in Africa.

Mr. Nahvi came to the U.S. from Iran in 1979. That same year, he responded to a call for traveling teachers and was able to fill a goal for the U.S.

He would commit several months each year to service as an international traveling teacher, and was able to teach in the South Pacific, South America, and the Caribbean.

His life of service is truly an example to all of us as we consider how the Faith can best use our services either as pioneers or international traveling teachers.

Mr. Nahvi is survived by his wife, Shokat; a daughter, Susan Fothergill; and a granddaughter, Robin Fothergill.

Pioneer Post on subscription basis

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

Louise Caswell, 91, pioneer for nearly 50 years, passes away at her final post in Yucatán, Mexico

PIONEERING

Louise Caswell, a long-time pioneer to Central America, died February 2 at her post in the Yucatán, Mexico. She was 91 years old.

She was buried at sunset, her favorite time of day, in the Bahá’í section of the public cemetery in Merida after a funeral service attended by some 40 Bahá’ís in the villages where she had taught.

A memorial service was held February 11 at the Bahá’í Center in Merida.

Louise Caswell was born March 18, 1896, to an affluent family in Portland, Oregon. Her parents were progressive and involved in the community; her father once said, “What the world needs is a world religion.”

No doubt such sentiments influenced Louise when she met the Bahá’ís of Portland, and she was enrolled in the Faith in 1927.

Louise was blessed with having outstanding Bahá’í teachers including Helen Pilkington, Mr. and Mrs. George Latimer, Leroy Ioas, Ella Cooper, John and Louise Bosch, Keith Ransom-Kehler, and Martha Root, after whom she patterned her own teaching methods.

In 1936, when the Guardian cabled the National Convention with a call for pioneers to arise and go to Latin America, Louise immediately volunteered to go to Mexico.

As circumstances would have it, she did not leave the U.S. that year but went instead to Knoxville, Tennessee, as a homefront pioneer.

In 1939, after helping to form the first Spiritual Assembly of Knoxville, Louise felt that her time had come to pioneer overseas, and in October she arrived in Panama to help establish the Faith in that country on which the Guardian had placed so much attention in The Advent of Divine Justice.

Louise remained in Panama for 10 years, helping with other pioneers to form the first local Spiritual Assembly in that country, in 1945. She also brought in the first Indian believer in Panama.

Louise did not limit her activities to Panama but traveled in the 1940s to all the Central American countries and the Greater Antilles.

In 1951 she was elected to the Regional National Spiritual Assembly of Central America and the Caribbean.

Later, in response to the great teaching needs throughout those republics, she left her post in Panama and, after spending nearly a year each in Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Honduras, settled in 1953 in Guatemala where she spent the next 22 years, serving for many years on the National Spiritual Assembly of Guatemala following its formation in 1961.

In 1975, Louise left Guatemala for the Yucatán to join her long-time friends, Artemus and Dora Lamb, Valeria Lamb Nichols, and Edna Ford.

LOUISE CASWELL (IN 1941)

Clerks needed to help several National Centers

Several National Spiritual Assemblies throughout the world require individuals with administrative experience and good clerical skills to work at their National Centers.

In most cases, the work involves organizing and running the office.

Salaries are usually sufficient for a single person, but this varies from country to country.

For more information, please contact the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

Pilgrimage leads to school proclamation

To make a pilgrimage to the Holy Land last October, Charles George, a Bahá’í from Park Forest, Illinois, had to apply for a two-week leave of absence from his position as a high school social studies teacher.

On his return the school’s principal asked if he had taken any pictures. When Mr. George said he had taken slides, the principal asked if he would show them at the school.

On December 12, the Board of Education sponsored a Christmas dinner for the faculty and staff, followed by a half-hour slide program of Mr. George’s pilgrimage and tour of Israel.

Mr. George was also interviewed by a student reporter which led to a 15 column-inch article in the December 17 issue of the school newspaper. [Page 7]

CAMPUS CLIPS

The recently formed Aurora University (Illinois) Bahá’í Club has been busy presenting “The Promise of World Peace” to 10 school officials and taking part in a “Faith Fair” during “Religious Emphasis Week.”

The three-member club has also hosted David Rouleau from the Bahá’í National Center who spoke about the peace statement at “University Hour,” a weekly all-campus discussion forum. Responses from the university community have been very positive.

Since two members are graduating this year, the club is seeking new members. Prospective students who would like more information should write to the Office of Admissions, Aurora University, 347 S. Gladstone Avenue, Aurora, IL 60507.

•

An ambitious youth is needed to help form a Bahá’í Club at St. John’s College, a liberal arts school in Annapolis, Maryland, where recent teaching activity has resulted in seven declarations in two years.

Those who would like more information about St. John’s are asked to contact Jeremy Lauer, P.O. Box 2189, Annapolis, MD 21404.

•

A College Clubs conference, held February 7 at the Bahá’í Center in Los Angeles, drew participants from more than 20 universities, colleges and high schools.

Among the speakers were Dr. Vida Bertrand of Stanford University, who stressed that youth “have a special energy and place to fill ... in the new World Order,” and Alex Gottdank from California State-Fullerton, who asked his audience what they would do if they received a Tablet from Bahá’u’lláh. He then handed his fellow students a letter and had each person read it. In the letter were messages from the Universal House of Justice to the youth of the world!

•

New ideas ...

Is your college club looking for a way to be of service to the community, a way to incorporate social and economic development, a goal of the Six Year Plan, into its activities?

Consider becoming involved in a literacy program in your area. The ability to read and write can raise one’s self-esteem, allow for a better understanding of the world community, and is crucial to the independent investigation of truth.

For information on nationwide and local literacy programs, write to the Contact Literacy Center, a national literacy hotline, P.O. Box 81826, Lincoln, NE 68501, or phone 402-464-0602 or 800-228-8813.

•

Don’t overlook your sponsoring Assembly and Bahá’í community! The College Club policy

See CAMPUS page 13

Youth have important role as traveling teachers

YOUTH

“The responsibility for the steady progress of the Cause rests upon you. You are the physicians of the sick body of the world of humanity. Youth must not stay anywhere for a long period of time. Travel ye from land to land like the apostles of Christ, and carry with you the glad tidings of the Kingdom of Abhá to the remotest corners of the earth!

“Why are ye silent? Shout! “Why are ye sitting? Move! “Why are ye quiet? Stir! “This is not the Day of rest and comfort. Travel ye constantly, spread far and wide the teachings of God!’”—‘Abdu’l-Bahá

These counsels of our beloved Master underscore both the importance and the bounty of travel teaching. Accordingly, the National Teaching Committee has designated 1987 as the “year of the traveling teacher.”

Travel teaching can play a major role in winning many of the goals of the Six Year Plan, and it is an integral element in commemorating the 75th anniversary of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s 239-day visit to North America.

Bahá’í youth have unique opportunities to travel and teach, and now is the time to arise!

Regional traveling teacher coordinators have been appointed by the National Teaching Committee to encourage traveling teaching. They can also help traveling teachers with their itineraries (see The American Bahá’í, January, p. 11).

The National Youth Committee can help youth in their traveling teaching activities. Bahá’í youth are asked to take advantage of school breaks and other times to travel teach, and are especially encouraged to study the life of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and then travel, telling stories of the Master to Bahá’í children, youth and adults.

“Further to these aspirations is the need for a mighty mobilization of teaching activities reflecting regularity in the patterns of service rendered by young Bahá’ís. The native urge of youth to move from place to place, combined with their abounding zeal, indicates that you can become more deliberately and numerously involved in these activities as traveling teachers.”—The Universal House of Justice, message of January 3, 1984, to the Bahá’í youth of the world

Get set for summer

Summer is just around the corner! Start formalizing your plans for a summer of service to the Cause. Here are some suggestions:

• Get a job for the sole purpose of giving all the money to the Fund.
• Go travel teaching throughout the United States.
• Attend one of the many teaching projects that will be held most anywhere in the U.S.
• Attend a Bahá’í summer school.
• Go international travel teaching or attend one of the several international projects.
• Attend one or both of the international youth conferences to be held this summer—Canada or Mexico.
• Initiate a project in your own community.
• Go beach teaching.

If you need help with your plans, call the National Youth Committee, 312-869-9039.

Auxiliary Board member Javidukht Khadem (in dark dress) speaks to youth at the House of Worship.

House of Worship host to Youth Committees

On February 20-22, members of Regional Youth Committee No. 5 and of District Youth Committees in Michigan, Indiana, Ohio and Illinois gathered for a fun-filled retreat at the Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois.

About 40 youth attended the event, which started with a bang Friday evening when Brandon Bullock, a Bahá’í from Illinois, broke the ice with his innovative workshops which created a comfortable atmosphere for everyone.

Following dawn prayers Saturday morning, the youth heard talks by Auxiliary Board members Javidukht Khadem and Morris Taylor and two members of the National Youth Committee, Gail Etzenhouser and Phillip White.

That evening, the youth went ice skating. Several wore their Bahá’í sweatshirts and realized that teaching can be fun!

On Sunday, Gayle Woolson introduced three children from her children’s public speaking project—Errol Doris, Saba Firoozi and Shani Eftekhari—each of whom spoke eloquently on Bahá’í topics.

Mrs. Woolson stressed the importance of having young Bahá’ís develop the ability to speak about the Faith, as ‘Abdu’l-Bahá said they should.

The retreat ended with each District Teaching Committee sharing its teaching experiences and explaining the various kinds of service projects it has undertaken in the past six months.

Youth and the Fund

We hear a lot about giving to the Fund, and it is very important, but some may not realize that the Fund has both a physical and a spiritual nature. The money part of the Fund is simply the physical reflection of its spiritual side. That money represents our love for God and our desire to please Him, and giving to the Fund is a shimmer of God’s generosity appearing in us. We find spiritual qualities, such as detachment and faith, in ourselves when we help the Fund.

However, spiritual qualities and a spiritual nature need prayer to develop. This is true with us, and it is true also with the Fund. When we need help, stability and divine confirmations, we look to God in prayer. In turn, in order to bring help, stability and divine confirmations to the Fund, we must also look to God. Our prayers for the Fund are as important as our contributions to the Fund. Our prayers bring divine assistance, and when we can only give a little, we can pray for the Fund and be strengthened by other means. Most of all, our prayers are something that we can contribute to the Fund every day!

Young U.S. Bahá’ís convene in Youth Movement meetings

During April a series of Bahá’í Youth Movement meetings is being held throughout the country.

As we progress further into the twin processes at hand, the breaking down of the old world order and the building up of the new, as we launch the Six Year Plan and make the transition into a new epoch, the National Youth Committee has planned these meetings to provide youth of the U.S. an opportunity to come together in a spirit of love and unity to consult about the vital years that lie ahead.

Shoghi Effendi said, “The activities, hopes, and ideals of the Bahá’í youth in America, as well as in other parts of the world, are close and dear to my heart.

“Upon them rests the supreme and challenging responsibility to promote the interests of the Cause of God in days to come: to coordinate its world-wide activities, to extend its scope, to safeguard its integrity, to exalt its virtue, and translate its ideals and aims into memorable and abiding achievements.

“Theirs is a mighty task, at once holy, stupendous and enthralling. May the spirit of Bahá’u’lláh protect, inspire and sustain them in the prosecution of their divinely appointed task.”

This month’s meetings were to be held either on the first, second or third weekend in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Nebraska, the New England states, Oregon, South Carolina and Utah.

Youth participation in the National Bahá’í Fund

Goal	100	200	300
Jamál
’Azamat
Núr
Rahmat
Kalimát
Kamál
Asmá’
’Izzat
Mashíyyat
’Ilm
Qudrat
Qawl
Masá’il
Sharaf
Sultán
Mulk
’Alá
Bahá
Jalál

[Page 8]

Viewpoint

(from page 2)

Englewood (Teaneck), New Jersey, where ‘Abdu’l-Bahá has invited you to a Unity Feast. He has had delicious Persian food prepared, which everyone enjoys in the cool shade of a large grove of trees. Later, He anoints you with attar of rose and speaks to you of the significance of such spiritual gatherings, promising that Bahá’ís will commemorate this Unity Feast for many years to come. (Promulgation, pp. 213-15; ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, pp. 223-25; and Diary of Juliet Thompson, pp. 322-25.)

June 30-August 29: Now you follow ‘Abdu’l-Bahá back to New York for several more talks (Promulgation, pp. 216-37), followed by a trip to Boston and New Hampshire. Next you visit Green Acre, an estate in Maine that will become an educational center for Bahá’ís in years to come (Diary of Juliet Thompson, pp. 358-61). See Promulgation, pp. 238-96, for a record of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s talks during this trip to New England.

August 30-October 1: In the heat of summer you board a train in Boston for a cross-country trip. First stop—Montreal, where you are entertained by the eminent architect William Sutherland Maxwell, whom Shoghi Effendi would name a Hand of the Cause of God in 1952. Later in September you set off for Chicago, Minneapolis, Denver and Salt Lake City. You can find ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s talks in Promulgation, pp. 297-342.

October 2-26, California: In Palo Alto you cheer ‘Abdu’l-Bahá along with nearly 2,000 professors and students He addresses at Stanford (Youth in the Vanguard, pp. 111-25). In San Francisco, you hear His fearless support of Christ and Muhammad at a Jewish synagogue. Later, you accompany Him to Los Angeles to visit the grave of Thornton Chase, the "first American believer" (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, pp. 298-307, 309-10). See Promulgation, pp. 343-80, for ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s talks, and 239 Days, pp. 165-76, for details of His travels in the Golden State.

October 26-November 10: Sacramento is your last stop in California before boarding a train for Washington, D.C. (via Denver, Chicago and Cincinnati). Toward the end of your stay in Washington there is a magnificent banquet in ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s honor, attended by nearly 300 people (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, pp. 323-25).

November 11-December 4: Winter is approaching, and you can sense that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s departure from America is imminent, but first you accompany Him back to New York, His beloved "City of the Covenant" (239 Days, pp. 185-209). There are 13 more talks (Promulgation, pp. 431-70) including one at an impressive banquet at the Great Northern Hotel (Portals to Freedom, pp. 149-66).

December 5: Today ‘Abdu’l-Bahá bids you farewell as He stands in a large cabin on the Celtic, bound for Liverpool. His crisp, clear voice summons you to "exert yourselves with heart and soul so that through your efforts the light of universal peace may shine" (Promulgation, pp. 468-70). As His ship moves into the river, you can read His lips as He stands at the rail: "Alláh-u-Abhá! Alláh-u-Abhá!" (Portals to Freedom, pp. 211-16, 227-28; Diary of Juliet Thompson, pp. 390-95.)

The commemoration of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit to America gives you an excellent chance to recapture some of the excitement felt by the early believers.

So turn back the clock, read ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s talks, and delve into the histories and eyewitness accounts. These books are your entree into a remarkable period in American Bahá’í history.

Start making your travel plans today! Cut this "travel brochure" out for handy reference for the next eight months.

Coming events at your Bahá’í schools

• • BOSCH**

May 15-17: Urban Spiritual Assembly Conference, sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of San Francisco. For information, phone 415-431-9990.

May 22-25: Marriage Enrichment, designed for married couples; limited child care available, space permitting.

Summer sessions begin June 20 with Week No. 1, Junior Youth Week.

For details about summer sessions, see the schools summary in this issue of The American Bahá’í. Session update recording: 408-423-3093. Office is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Pacific time) Wednesday through Sunday. Phone 408-423-3387.

• • GREEN ACRE**

April-June: No conferences scheduled to allow time for extensive facility repairs and improvements. Volunteers welcome! For more information, please contact the school in advance at 207-439-0256. 1987 summer sessions begin July 1. See The American Bahá’í for details.

• • LOUHELEN**

April 24-26: Youth conference.

May 15-17: Conference for parents and children.

June 5-7: Male-female dialogue on the equality of men and women (note change in date).

July 3-6: National teacher training conference.

For session information or to register, phone 313-653-5033. Office hours are 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. (Central time), Tuesday-Friday, and weekends when conferences are in session. 1987 summer sessions begin July 1; see The American Bahá’í for details.

• • LOUIS GREGORY INSTITUTE**

April 21-May 2: The Institute will be heavily involved in Ridván elections and teaching work. For information about how you can support the effort, please call the Institute.

May 8-10: Meeting of a committee of the Continental Board of Counselors.

June 6: Louis Gregory Day with a presentation by Dr. Elsie Austin.

June 27: Unity Feast to commemorate the silver anniversary of the Souvenir Picnic.

July 5-August 1: Bahá’í Youth Academy.

For more information or to register, please phone 803-558-5093.

• • NATIVE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í INSTITUTE**

May-August: Teacher orientation and deepenings in support of the Navajo-Hopi Teaching Project; construction of new classroom facilities; workshops and deepenings for the translation of the Bahá’í writings into Navajo; annual intercultural Council Fire.

For specific information, schedules, and ways you can support these activities, write to NABI, P.O. Box 167, Houck, AZ 86506, or phone 602-367-8595 or 602-367-5126, ext. 8595.

Spirit of the Roses

(from page 1)

Source—a Source that is available to us whenever we wish to access it.

Tapping into that Source through prayer and meditation, and then having the confidence and determination to approach situations as though our prayers had been answered, is something that we can do every day, making such achievements as those we are witnessing during the 189 days of victories in the "Spirit of the Roses" a part of our daily lives.

Following is the story of one individual who reflects the essence of this spirit. On a daily basis, she puts forth the effort, and is given back the strength to accomplish far beyond what we might consider ordinary achievements. May we all learn from her wonderful example:

"We in Sarpy County, Nebraska, have the bounty of having Maureen Reiber in our community.

"Not only does she serve as vice-chairman of the Sarpy County Spiritual Assembly, as an assistant to the Auxiliary Board and on the District Teaching Committee of Nebraska, but in addition to all of this (plus a career), Maureen spends each and every Saturday teaching and deepening on the Winnebago and Omaha Indian Reservations.

"No matter how difficult the situation—be it car problems, money problems, health problems, family problems, etc.—Maureen rarely misses a Saturday. It's about an hour and a half drive, and her work doesn't end once she gets there.

"She and the Bahá’ís who ride with her work with the Bahá’ís on the Reservations, going from home to home teaching and deepening. Most of the American Indians have no phones, so the Bahá’ís simply go from house to house calling a gathering at one central location, or teaching one-on-one.

"The Bahá’ís have won the hearts of the Omaha and Winnebago Indians as they teach the healing Message of Bahá’u’lláh, feed the hungry (both literally and spiritually), love the lonely souls, and take part in community life at funerals, community gatherings, traditional activities, etc.

"Maureen is an integral part of these activities. I can't recount all of what she does because the list seems to go on forever. She is a blessed soldier in Bahá’u’lláh’s army.

"It is my sincere belief that Sarpy County is enjoying splendid bounties of fruitful teaching, deepening, and proclamation activities because of the spiritual energy Maureen draws to the area through her sacrifices....

"Monday through Friday, she is the director of the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Care Center in North Omaha—she is the only white employee, and thereby teaches race unity every day.

"On Friday nights, Maureen holds firesides at her home, and if seekers do not come, we pray and deepen in the Writings. Every other Sunday night the Assembly meets in her home, and I don't know when she finds time to serve on the District Teaching Committee.

"Maureen is living proof that the power of the Holy Spirit is infinite when working through a hollow reed."—Written by a Bahá’í from Nebraska

"Bahá’u’lláh has said that God will assist those who arise in His service. The more you labor for His Faith, the more He will aid and bless you."—Shoghi Effendi

• • Arise! To Teach**

Schools coordinator Blanche Grant steps down; Kathleen Magill to assume post

Blanche Grant, the National Teaching Committee's Regional Schools coordinator for the past seven years, remained in California when the regional office was moved March 1 to the Bahá’í National Center in Wilmette.

Taking the position of Regional Schools coordinator is Kathleen Magill who has served in the National Teaching Committee's office for the past two and one-half years.

As Regional Schools coordinator, Mrs. Grant has, among many other duties and accomplishments, helped train schools committees; served as a communications link between all offices and agencies at the Bahá’í National Center in coordinating and recommending programs, materials and speakers; helped in budget development; identified key trends and developments from minutes and reports and communicated them to the appropriate agencies and institutions; and maintained a school directory.

As a result of her dedicated efforts, the number of regional schools has risen during her tenure from 20 to 44.

The new schools coordinator, Ms. Magill, can be contacted at the Bahá’í National Center, 312-869-9039, ext. 228.

Captions

Auxiliary Board member Morris Taylor addresses the Regional Bahá’í Schools Conference held February 14-16 at the Louhelen Bahá’í School in Davison, Michigan. Attending the conference, the purpose of which was to explore the role of the schools in winning the goals of the Six Year Plan, were members of 17 Bahá’í School Committees from across the country. Other speakers included Bahá’í Schools coordinator Blanche Grant; Janice Lever and Kathy Magill from the National Teaching Committee office at the Bahá’í National Center; and William (Bluey) Diehl, director of the Louhelen Bahá’í School.

Students study a passage during a deepening on The Hidden Words of Bahá’u’lláh conducted February 12-16 at the Louhelen Bahá’í School by Dr. David Earl (right) of Ypsilanti, Michigan. Dr. Earl used references from Adib Taherzadeh's book The Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh as well as a compilation by the Universal House of Justice on The Hidden Words to help the group consult on the counsels revealed in the sacred Writings.

Bahá’í National Center

Office Hours 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Central Time) Monday-Friday Phone 312-869-9039 [Page 9]

Family Unity Night (Fun)

FIRST WEEK OF MAY: May 1 (Buddha’s Birth, about 500 B.C.). Thought for the week: “Hurt not others in ways that you yourself would find hurtful.”—Buddha Prayer: Bahá’í Prayers, pp. 152-53. Lesson: Read and discuss one or more of the suggested lesson materials: 1. Gleanings, p. 52 (XXII, pp. 50-56). 2. God and His Messengers by Hofman, pp. 12-14 (story of Buddha). 3. The Story as Told by Mahmoudi (section on Buddha). 4. Buddha ‎Maitrya-Amithaba Maitreya-Amitabha‎ Has Appeared by Fozdar, p. 194 (teachings). 5. Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 346. Activity: 1. Since a lotus flower is commonly associated with Buddha, and the recently dedicated Bahá’í House of Worship in India is fashioned after a lotus, try making a lotus (a kind of water lily) by drawing petals on construction paper and cutting them out. Glue the petals to a central base, such as a half-inch of a paper towel roll. Stuff the center with colored paper. (Note: page 74 of lesson No. 4 above explains the significance of the lotus.) 2. Make a time-line divided into hundreds of years of the lives of the Prophets of God beginning with Buddha (about 500 B.C.). Before Buddha, there is Abraham (2200 B.C.), Krishna (about 1500 B.C.), Moses (about 1300 B.C.) and Zoroaster (about 1000 B.C.). Refreshments: Fresh berries with cream.

SECOND WEEK OF MAY: May 8 (‘Azamat—Grandeur, May 17). Thought for the week: “Generosity is not in giving me that which I need more than you do, but it is in giving me that which you need more than I do.”—Kahlil Gibran Prayer: Bahá’í Prayers, p. 65. Lesson: Read and discuss one or more of the suggested lesson materials: This lesson deals with generosity and some examples of generosity as shown by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. 1. Gleanings, p. 278 (2nd paragraph), pp. 285, 297, 301-02. Vignettes, pp. 63-64, Nos. 38 and 39. Activity and Refreshment: Make “mid-get date loaves.” 1 cup boiling water; 1 8-ounce package pitted dates, cut up; 1/4-cup shortening or butter; 1 3/4-cups all-purpose flour; 1/2-cup sugar; 1 tsp. baking soda; 1/4-tsp. salt; 1 beaten egg; 3/4-cup chopped walnuts. Pour boiling water over dates; add shortening and let stand for five minutes. Stir to combine flour, sugar, soda and salt; stir in date mixture, egg and walnuts. Mix well. Spread batter evenly in three greased 6-by-3-by-2-inch loaf pans (or one 9-by-5-by-3-inch pan). Bake at 350 degrees—35 minutes for small loaves or 55 minutes for large loaf. Be generous—give two (or three?) loaves away.

THIRD WEEK OF MAY: Declaration of the Báb. Thought for the week: “This night, this very hour will, in the days to come, be celebrated as one of the greatest and most significant of all festivals.”—The Báb Prayer: pp. 72-73, “O my Lord and my Hope!” (Firmness in the Covenant). Lesson: Read and discuss one or more of the suggested lesson materials: 1. The Hidden Words, No. 9, p. 95. 2. The ‎Bdb Báb‎ by H.M. Balyuzi, pp. 17-20. 3. The Dawn-Breakers, pp. 52-65. 4. God Passes By, pp. 3-6. Activity: A festival! During the day, prepare the house by cleaning, shining and polishing. Set the table with your best dishes and tablecloth. Use flowers to decorate the table too! Then, everyone put on his best clothes for the party. (You may wish to invite several special guests to share this occasion with your family.) Refreshments: Cake, ice cream, punch or other favorites for family and guests.

FOURTH WEEK OF MAY: Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh. Thought for the week: “Observe My commandments for the love of My beauty.”—Bahá’u’lláh Prayer: Bahá’u’lláh’s Prayer: p. 174, “O my God ...” Lesson: Read and discuss one or more of the suggested lesson materials: 1. The Hidden Words, No. 59, p. 17. 2. God Passes By, p. 221. 3. God Passes By, pp. 223-24. 4. “In His Presence” (audio cassette) by Mr. Samandari. 5. Synopsis and Codification of the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, p. 12 (No. 1, paragraphs 2,3). Activity: Bahá’u’lláh tells us that He drained the cup of sorrow that we might have happiness. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá tells us that the greatest sadness to Bahá’u’lláh during His imprisonment was being deprived of the sight of verdure: flowers, green fields, trees. In His memory, take a family walk, perhaps in a conservatory or public garden in your area. Refreshments: Sherbet and cookies, served with a favorite beverage.

FIFTH WEEK OF MAY: The Most Challenging Issue. Thought for the week: “Strive earnestly and put forth your greatest endeavor toward the accomplishment of this fellowship and the cementing of this bond of brotherhood between you.”—‘Abdu’l-Bahá Prayer: p. 204, No. 1 (unity). Lesson: Read and discuss one or more of the suggested lesson materials: 1. The Advent of Divine Justice, pp. 33-34. 2. Circle of Unity (“Bahá’ís and Race Relations”), pp. 53-55. 3. The Advent of Divine Justice, pp. 30, 32. 4. “Star of the West,” Vol. 12, No. 6 (June 24, 1921). 5. Bahá’í World Faith, p. 269. Activity: Read and discuss the part of the paragraph from page 30 of The Advent of Divine Justice that begins, “Freedom from racial prejudice ...” Refreshments: Rice cakes with peanut butter and jelly, fruit juice or milk.

Paper recounts Bahá’í’s distinguished career

A feature article recounting the career as a bacteriologist of 90-year-old Thelma Wenzel, a member of the Bahá’í community of Little Rock, Arkansas, appeared February 1 in the Arkansas Democrat.

The article tells how Miss Wenzel, working at Vanderbilt University, developed in 1929 a method used to culture specimens in the laboratory which came to be known as the Wenzel anaerobic method.

Later, she was the first to isolate an organism in human blood known as histoplasma ‎capsulatus capsulatum‎.

Miss Wenzel lives in “quiet retirement,” the article says, “and pursues her lifelong hobbies of reading and painting. She has traveled widely and is an active participant of the Bahá’í faith.”

Mark your calendars for summer fun and growth at Bosch Bahá’í School

EDUCATION

Mark your calendars now for the summer dates at the Bosch Bahá’í School in Santa Cruz, California.

Beginning June 20 with Junior Youth Week, 10 opportunities are offered for vacation, study, recreation and growth.

Come to have fun and meet new friends, but come also for change—in the way you perceive yourself, in the way you interact with friends, family and community—and in the way you envision the influence of the Bahá’í principles at work in the world.

Summer offers a variety of ways to learn about eliminating prejudice and valuing differences, about social and economic development (beginning, remember, in our own selves and in our own communities), about the art of consultation, about selected segments of Bahá’í history, about the acquisition of true wealth—all with a background of the Creative Word for this day, the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh.

Guiding us in making these changes will be friends who are well-known to all Bahá’ís including members of the National Spiritual Assembly, the Boards of Counselors, and Auxiliary Board members.

Also serving as teacher/facilitators will be excellent teachers you may not know. During some weeks you’ll have a chance for indepth study by making a choice between two options ... that means giving up one of the courses offered in order to have more time to explore the other.

Check the program brochure and announcements so you’ll know the sessions in which you will be making this choice.

In response to the wishes expressed in a survey made recently by the Bosch School Council, there will be other changes this summer including one three-day and one seven-day session, in addition to several five-day sessions.

You are the essential but somewhat unknown ingredient for the summer of ’87 at Bosch. The staff solicits your own unique talents to enrich the recreational and devotional programs. If you can offer to teach a skill, lead a nature walk, direct a game, craft or other recreational/educational bonus, please indicate this on the back of your registration form.

Let us know what equipment you’ll expect to have at the school ... but please bring any unusual supplies you will need.

Another opportunity to participate: the first 20 minutes each morning will be a study of meditation on the Creative Word (the words of Bahá’u’lláh). If you are able to lead one of these sessions, please indicate that on your registration form, and come prepared to be the leader on one or more mornings.

Combine the Creative Word with music, flowers, scents, bells, flutes or other appropriate special effects that enhance the devotional time.

It will be a good summer of ’87 if you are there. See the Bosch brochure for information about work/study scholarships.

Apply to your Assembly for help, if necessary. But don’t miss your time in the coastal redwoods this summer.

Terrific deal is offered on back issues of Child’s Way, Brilliant Star magazines

What a deal! Get ’em while they’re hot! Fire sale!

For three months only, you can get back issues of Child’s Way magazine and Brilliant Star at exceptionally low prices. We’re clearing out old issues and hate to throw away materials that can be used by children’s classes, pioneers or other individuals.

Usually, a back issue costs $2, but during April, May and June only, you can get five back issues for only $5!

What a great gift for a friend. What a wonderful treat to have tucked away at home for a rainy day. What a delight for a pioneer to receive a package of back issues to use in teaching. What a resource for Bahá’í schools and classes.

Hurry, while they last! Send your check to Brilliant Star, Suburban Office Park, 5010 Austin Road, Hixson, TN 37343, and we’ll send you your choice of exciting back issues.

Remember, this offer is good only through June 30, 1987.

Dr. William Maxwell’s business profiled in Money magazine

William Maxwell, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly, was profiled in the February issue of Money magazine in a series devoted to the trials and tribulations of starting one’s own small business.

Dr. Maxwell, an educator, is the head of his own company, the IQ Foundation, which seeks to improve the learning skills of youngsters through specially designed card games developed by Dr. Maxwell.

He conceived the idea in 1978 and, in 1984, resigned as dean of education at Texas Southern University in Houston to devote his full time to the new company.

Brilliant Star

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

Name _____________________ Street _____________________ City _____________________ State & Zip _____________________ Age of recipient _____________________

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

Send to: Brilliant Star Suburban Office Park 5010 Austin Rd. Hixson, Tn. 37343 [Page 10]

Ridván telephone contacts

Below is a list of Ridván telephone contacts. Immediately after Ridván elections are held, each local Spiritual Assembly is responsible for calling the District's contact person to report election results.

The contact person will need to know the name of the Spiritual Assembly, the name and phone number of the Assembly secretary or contact person, and the number of people voting—in person or absentee—at the local election.

DISTRICT

Alabama, Northern: Jacqueline Osbourne 205-764-1766 Alabama S/Florida NW: Daffraneeze Riley 904-623-5315 Arizona, Northern: Dorothy Altman 602-937-1002 Arizona, Southern: Dan Anderson 602-624-7479 Arkansas: Gladys Livermore 501-636-4230 California, Central No. 1: Beatrice Link 408-395-5351 California, Central No. 2: Benjamin Norris 209-239-7246 or 415-866-5202 California, Northern No. 1: Ralph Schreiber 916-865-7054 California, Northern No. 2: Diane Sullivan 707-433-1465 California, Southern No. 1: Lynn Bruning 213-377-1078 California, Southern No. 2: Cynthia Carlton 714-688-6415 California, Southern No. 3: Cheryll McCarty California, Southern No. 4: Mike Lavach Colorado, Northeast: Sunny Stallings 203-972-3144 Colorado, Southeast: Carey Nibarger 302-674-5221 Colorado, Western: John David 305-656-9519 Connecticut: Norma Avegnon 800-592-2424 DelMar Va: Pepper Oldziey 305-485-1369 Florida, Central: Mark Alexander 305-482-3892 Florida, Northern: May McClinton 305-634-5085 Florida, Southeast-Central: Mary Blakney Florida, Southeast-North: Kurt Wells Florida, Southeast-South: Joy Haxton

Florida, Southwest: Arlene Jennrich 805-772-2377 Georgia, Northeast: Fern Chappell 619-561-4457 Georgia, Northwest: Cathy Russell 303-688-1167 or 303-688-5080 Georgia, Southern: Kitty Hurley 303-471-7158 Idaho N/Washington E: LaVont Steele 303-434-8350 Idaho, Southern: Sharon Wright 813-343-2468 Illinois, Northern No. 1: Joan Shinnick 404-790-6597 or 404-733-1840 Illinois, Northern No. 2: Barbara King Lachmar 404-923-2361 Illinois, Southern: Sherry Perkins 912-638-5046 Indiana: La Juana Williams 509-334-3398 Iowa: Fay Himes 208-745-8479 Kansas: Gray Bishop 312-293-1599 Kentucky: Sarah Lee 312-251-0985 Louisiana: Marsha Lee Johnson 618-457-2943 Maine: Janot R.M. Comeau 317-675-6915 Maryland/D.C.: Evander Gilmer 319-843-3382 Massachusetts: Gina Shamey 316-788-5378 Michigan, Mainland: Phillip Cavanagh 606-266-8055 Minnesota, Northern: Harlen Whitling 318-345-0482 Minnesota, Southern: Haleh Samimi 207-935-3843 Mississippi: Lisa Kay Reimer 301-839-4832 Missouri: Jeanne Engle 413-323-6123 Montana: Topaz Dosen 517-823-2865 Navajo/Hopi: Carol Graber 218-384-4511 Nebraska: Roan Stone 612-488-9090 Nevada, Northern: Christine Gabarron 601-856-2964 Nevada, Southern: Nancy Jeppson 314-635-2398 or 314-882-6227 New Hampshire: Ruth Harvey 406-586-6323 New Jersey: Jonathan Ring 505-863-6701 New Mexico, Northern: Richard Tomarelli 402-461-3613 New Mexico S/Texas W: Robert Giebitz 702-358-6924 New York, Eastern: Jack Bush 702-361-8846 New York, Western: Sandra Schwagler 603-772-4680 North Carolina, Central: Samuel Williams 609-769-4257 North Carolina, Eastern: Pam Ruby 505-869-2151 North Carolina, Western: Renee Cadwalader 915-886-2524 North Dakota: Mavis Nymon 718-358-1280 Ohio, Northern: Pleasant Montgomery 315-363-9959 Ohio, Southern: Rose Wendel 919-679-2133 Oklahoma, Eastern: John Algeo 919-847-2885 Oklahoma, Western: Sandra McCool 704-487-4001 Oregon, Eastern: Dianne Henrickson 701-232-0058 Oregon, Western: Megha Shyam 216-991-0475 Pennsylvania, Eastern: Robert Basso 513-433-1120 Pennsylvania, Western: Deb Hilbert 918-224-8252 Rhode Island: Edith Carpenter 405-942-3227 South Carolina, Central: Jonathan Hanna 503-475-6627 South Carolina, Eastern No. 1: Bret Breneman 503-745-5027 South Carolina, Eastern No. 2: Frank Jordan 717-599-5939 South Carolina, Northern: Donna Landau 814-796-6380 South Carolina, Southern No. 1: Dorothy Ellis 401-461-7904 South Carolina, Southern No. 2: Amber Spahn 803-782-9211 South Carolina, Western: Nancy Markovich 803-667-1540 South Dakota: Sandra LeBeau 605-964-7340 Tennessee, Eastern: Carla Abbot 615-581-7540 Tennessee, Western: Bill Love 615-444-0033 Texas, Central No. 1: Irma Gray 803-382-9738 Texas, Eastern No. 1: Rose-Marie Stevens 803-877-0563 Texas, Eastern No. 2: Melanie Mouzoon 803-552-2572 Texas, North-Central: David Fly 803-838-5453 Texas, Southern: Sheron Knowlton 803-240-3200 Utah: Peggy McDonald 915-697-5991 Vermont: Shari Meyer 512-552-7603 Virginia, Northern: Warren Hastings 801-776-6048 Virginia, Southeast: John Czerniejewski 802-658-1916 Virginia, Southwest: Roger Davis 703-437-7294 Washington, Northwest: Kathleen Johnson 804-233-7033 Washington, Southwest: Frances Amundson 512-820-3077 West Virginia: Mark Weiner 817-540-0127 Wisconsin N/Upper Michigan: Thomas May 713-664-0776 Wisconsin, Southern: Albert Taborn II 703-997-5722 Wyoming: Nancy Otto 206-445-4205 or 206-336-5115 307-532-2893 206-943-8093 304-523-0114 414-869-2045 414-464-5506

Travel-teaching

My name is Sierra Van Manen and I am almost 8. Last summer our family went travel-teaching. We met a lot of new people and stayed in different places every night. We did a lot of firesides. Here is a picture of some new friends we made. On the left side of the picture there is me and my brother, Sequoia, and my dad, Dave Van Manen. On the right side is the Douglas family. I am looking forward to travel-teaching this year.

Many Bahá’ís to mark ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit by undertaking trips as traveling teachers

"Oh that I could travel, even though on foot and in the utmost poverty, to these regions, and, raising the call of ‘Ya Bahá’u’l-Abhá’ in cities, villages, mountains, deserts and oceans, promote the Divine teachings! This, alas, I cannot do. How intensely I deplore it! Please God, ye may achieve it."—‘Abdu’l-Bahá

The itinerary of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, while He was in the U.S., was perhaps the most rigorous in all of recorded religious history. Yet, there were so many other places He wanted to go; so many more friends He wanted to visit.

In memory of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, during the 75th anniversary of His visit, many Bahá’ís are planning to use their summer vacations to undertake teaching trips to those regions where He was unable to travel.

Others are hesitating to commit themselves to such ventures, perhaps because they are unsure of what traveling teachers are supposed to do or how they are supposed to do it.

According to Shoghi Effendi, traveling teachers are supposed to "encourage and inspire individual believers, and to broaden and deepen their vision of the task that is to be done."

This may be accomplished through a wide range of activities from sharing prayers and tea with an isolated believer to helping a small community arrange a public presentation, perhaps including a television or radio interview.

Although various approaches and methods of presentation should be used according to the capacity of the individual or group, the Universal House of Justice has indicated which topics a traveling teacher should try to include while speaking with the friends:

1. The extent of the spread and stature of the Faith today.

2. The importance of daily obligatory prayers (at least the short prayer).

3. The need to educate Bahá’í children in the Teachings of the Faith and to encourage them to memorize some of the prayers.

4. The stimulation of youth to participate in community life by giving talks, etc., and having their own activities, if possible.

5. The necessity to abide by the laws of marriage, namely, the need to have a Bahá’í ceremony... consent of parents, faithfulness after marriage; likewise the importance of abstinence from all intoxicating drinks and drugs.

6. 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. There should also be discussion of various methods that could be followed by the friends to facilitate their contributions and the ways open to the local Assembly to utilize its local Fund to serve the interests of its community and the Cause.

7. The importance of the Nineteen Day Feast and the fact that it is a rallying point of the entire community.

8. The manner of election with as many workshops as required, including teaching of simple methods of balloting for illiterates...

9. Last but not least, the all-important teaching work, both in the locality and its neighboring centers, as well as the need to continuously deepen the friends in the essentials of the Faith. The friends should be made to realize that in teaching the Faith to others they should not only aim at assisting the seeking soul to join the Faith but also at making him a teacher of the Faith and its active supporter.

The above points should be discussed in the framework of how they relate to the local Spiritual Assembly. For, although there is not an Assembly in every locality at the present time, we are assured that, in the future, there will be. The local friends should understand the importance of the law of consultation and realize that it is to the Assembly that they should turn, abide by its decisions, support its projects, and cooperate wholeheartedly with it in its task of promoting the interests of the Cause.

Shoghi Effendi has said that the best teacher is "neither more nor less than an ordinary Bahá’í who has consecrated himself to the work of the Faith, deepened his knowledge and understanding of its Teachings, placed his confidence in Bahá’u’lláh, and arisen to serve Him to the best of his ability."

Like any other Bahá’í teacher, the traveling teacher should begin preparations for the task by deep- [Page 11]

Chicago area Bahá’ís to mark Master’s historic acts

Along with plans to commemorate the 75th anniversary of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s week-long visit to Chicago this spring, Bahá’ís in the Chicago area are preparing to celebrate the anniversaries of two especially significant days.

There are seven acts which Shoghi Effendi referred to in God Passes By that rank among the outstanding functions associated with ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit to North America, functions that firmly established the Bahá’í Faith in the Western Hemisphere.

Two of these acts were performed in the Chicago area. The first was His address to the Bahá’í Temple Unity in Chicago on April 30, 1912, and the second was the laying of the cornerstone for the Bahá’í House of Worship on the following day.

On April 30, 75 years ago, 2,000 people arose as ‘Abdu’l-Bahá entered the Masonic Temple where a convention was being held by the Bahá’í Temple Unity, a committee developed to supervise the building of the first Bahá’í House of Worship in the West.

He told the gathering of the importance of building this Temple and explained its true significance:

“The real temple is the very Word of God; for to it all humanity must turn, and it is the center of unity for all mankind. ...Temples are the symbols of the divine uniting force so that when the people gather there in the House of God they may recall the fact that the law has been revealed to them and that the law is to unite them. ...

“In brief, the original purpose of temples and houses of worship is simply that of unity—places of meeting where various peoples, different races and souls of every capacity may come together in order that love and agreement should be manifest between them. ...The outer edifice is the symbol of the inner. ...” (The Promulgation of Universal Peace, pp. 65-66)

The next day, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá further blessed the construction of the House of Worship by laying the dedication stone with His own hands, but not before the earth had been spaded by persons from Persia, Syria, Egypt, India, Japan, South Africa, England, France, Germany, Holland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and by North American Indians.

Today, the House of Worship stands as a solid, ornate symbol of unity to more than two million people from across the country and around the world.

People of all ages, races, social status and cultural backgrounds are struck with awe as they enter, and are compelled to sit for at least a moment of meditation or prayer.

Everyone who enters is somehow indelibly affected by the power of its glorious splendor.

This is the power of the Word of God which gathered the diverse group who cleared a space for the laying of the dedication stone; this is the power that will raise Houses of Worship in all cities and unite the world as one.

Traveling

from page 10

ening his or her own knowledge of the Faith.

In making actual travel plans, Bahá’ís should keep in mind the areas in which traveling teachers are most needed, some of which are mass-taught areas of South Carolina and southern Georgia, the vast isolated areas of the West, or areas where recent teaching projects have created a special need for follow-up deepening activities.

Contact should be made with the Traveling Teacher Office, which is managed by Dale Sollars, who can help with logistical arrangements, offer suggestions, and provide a list of coordinators and/or Assembly contacts along a traveling teacher’s route. The office number is 208-785-4495.

Becoming traveling teachers gives ‎Bahá’í’s Bahá’ís‎ unique opportunities to broaden networks of personal friendships through sharing the greatest gift we have to offer with those who will appreciate the everlasting effects of our efforts.

More importantly, it is a way in which Bahá’ís can contribute to reaching the spiritual destiny of America and hasten the unfoldment of the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh.

More than 200 attend ‘Latin’ fund-raiser at NYC Bahá’í Center

More than 200 people, 120 of whom were not Bahá’ís, attended a “Latin Night” fund-raiser January 10 at the Bahá’í Center in New York City.

Included on the program were dances, music and food from Mexico, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Colombia, Bolivia, Peru, the Dominican Republic, Cuba and Spain.

The event was a joint production of New York’s Hispanic Bahá’í community and the newly formed Arts and Music Task Force, all under the direction of Cecilia Mirafzali.

A few helpful guidelines for those who answer a ‘Bahá’í telephone’

A telephone listing under “Bahá’í Faith” in the white or yellow pages of a local phone directory opens a valuable line of communication.

It can help seekers and Bahá’ís who are visiting from out of town to locate the Bahá’í community. Ideally, every Bahá’í community would have one.

Following are suggestions for communities that have a Bahá’í telephone listing.

Often, a person who calls a Bahá’í phone number will be speaking to a Bahá’í for the very first time. It is quite important that this caller’s first impression should be a positive one.

Special care must be taken to ensure that the person responding to the caller is:

1. Courteous. The Bahá’í handling telephone inquiries must make the caller feel that his or her call is welcomed. This person must be able to project warm feelings over the phone.

2. Able to handle calls with wisdom and tact. Although knowledge about the Faith is important, the ability to discern what should or should not be discussed over the phone is also an important attribute for those who handle calls.

Anyone manning a phone should be briefed by the Spiritual Assembly in advance regarding sensitive calls, such as a request for the unlisted phone number of a Bahá’í, or a request for monetary help from a caller—Bahá’í or otherwise—who has “fallen on hard times.”

As not all callers have the most benevolent feelings toward the Faith, the person who answers inquiries must also be even-tempered and not inclined to be pulled into arguments.

3. Aware of local events. A list should be ready to refer to in order to advise callers of public meetings, firesides, Feasts (if the person is a Bahá’í), or other Bahá’í-sponsored events. Whoever is taking calls should be prepared to give good directions to the places where these events are to be held.

4. Available to answer the phone. If it is not possible to find a Bahá’í who is usually near the phone, or for times when that person is out, an answering machine can be used.

Children should be advised to turn requests for information about the Faith over to the person in charge, or to ask the caller to leave a name and number where he/she can be reached if the person who normally answers the phone is not there.

Other household residents who are not ‎Bahá’í’s Bahá’ís‎ should be asked to do the same.

CORRECTION

In the February issue of The American Bahá’í it was stated in the “Guidelines for Teaching Chinese in the U.S.,” on page 11, that the Chinese Teaching Committee encourages youth and college students to take part in service or teaching projects in China.

This is not an accurate statement, as Bahá’ís are not free at this time to hold teaching projects in the People’s Republic of China. Direct teaching there is not allowed, and the Universal House of Justice has cautioned us not to mention the Faith in that country. (Any Bahá’í planning to travel to China is advised to contact the International Goals Committee so that the Universal House of Justice can be informed.)

It was intended that the guidelines refer to projects in Chinese-speaking countries outside of mainland China. Please note this correction.

This attractive Bahá’í billboard is on the I-70 business loop near Grand Junction, Colorado. It includes the Colorado ‘800’ Bahá’í phone number and the message ‘Spread the Promise of Peace ... One heart at a time.—the Bahá’í Faith.’

Bahá’ís in U.S. have many chances to cultivate friendships with Chinese

‘Abdu’l-Bahá and Shoghi Effendi often referred to China as being a land of great spiritual capacity.

For example, in “Star of the West,” ‘Abdu’l-Bahá was reported to have said, “China is the country of the future. I hope that the right kind of teacher will be inspired to go to that vast empire to lay the foundation of the Kingdom of God, to promote the principles of divine civilization, to unfurl the banner of the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh, and to invite the people to the banquet of the Lord!”

In a letter to the Bahá’ís of the East, Shoghi Effendi wrote, “Let the friends in the East and the West enter the field. Let them awaken and quicken the land of China—a land which has its own world and civilization, whose people constitute one-fourth of the population of the globe, which ranks foremost among all nations in material, cultural and spiritual resources and potentialities, and whose future is assuredly bright. ...”

Unfortunately, we are unable at this time to proclaim the Faith on the mainland of China. However, there are still many avenues open to us to reach the Chinese people with the Message of Bahá’u’lláh.

There are many other countries in which Chinese people reside. These include countries that are predominantly Chinese, such as Singapore, and those that have large numbers of Chinese, such as the U.S.

The capacity of the Chinese people is the same regardless of

See CHINESE page 13

Teaching Committee’s ‘Project Guidelines’ available

The National Teaching Committee’s “Teaching Project Guidelines” will help a community to prepare for a teaching project whether it involves direct teaching, proclamation, or is service-oriented. The guidelines will be a valuable aid in planning and carrying out teaching projects. They are available from the National Teaching Committee office.

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

Teaching Project Guidelines Order Form

Please send ____ copy(ies) of the Teaching Project Guidelines to:

Name: __________________________________________________

Address: ________________________________________________

City/State/Zip: _________________________________________

Telephone: ______________________________________________

Please enclose a check for $2.00 per copy payable to “Bahá’í Services Fund” and send to the National Teaching Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, Illinois 60091 [Page 12]

Administrative Order designed to help unify human race

To fulfill its purpose for humanity, the message of each Manifestation of God must influence not only individuals, but society as a whole.

In the past, religions have taken their social and administrative structure largely from the patterns of interaction developed by their early followers. In the Bahá’í Faith it is Bahá’u’lláh, Himself, Who has established the form of the administrative order.

The purpose of the administrative structure is the same as the purpose of the Faith—to bring about the unity of the human race.

"This Cause...." Shoghi Effendi notes, "is designed to benefit the entire human race, and the only way it can do this is to reform the community life of mankind, as well as seeking to regenerate the individual. The Bahá’í administration is only the first shaping of what in the future will come to be the social life and laws of community living."

Bahá’u’lláh’s administration has three levels—international, national and local. The Universal House of Justice administers the affairs of the Bahá’í world, and each country has a National Spiritual Assembly to guide it.

However, it is on the local level that individual believers have the greatest opportunity to interact with and support the developing system established by Bahá’u’lláh.

The Universal House of Justice states: "The divinely ordained institution of the local Spiritual Assembly operates on the first levels of human society, and is the basic administrative unit of Bahá’u’lláh’s World Order. It is concerned with individuals and families whom it must constantly encourage to unite in a distinctive Bahá’í society, vitalized and guarded by the laws, ordinances and principles of Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation. It protects the Cause of God; it acts as the loving shepherd of the Bahá’í flock."

The local Spiritual Assembly is a channel for the life-giving spirit which Bahá’u’lláh has brought to the world.

Each Assembly has a number of specific responsibilities for its community. Some of these are to direct the teaching work; to protect the Faith; to promote the unity and participation of the believers; to extend help to "the poor, the sick, the disabled, the orphan, the widow"; to promote the spiritual and material education of children; and to make arrangements for regular meetings, Feasts and other gatherings.

In its interaction with the community, the local Assembly is to offer encouragement, love, advice and guidance. The Assembly is ready to help the believers with their personal problems. Individual members of the Assembly have no unique station or position in the community—it is the institution as a body that is given responsibilities and authority by Bahá’u’lláh.

There is much that each individual can do to help support and nurture the local Assembly. First, Bahá’ís must obey the decisions of the Assembly.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá tells us that even if an Assembly makes a mistake, this mistake can be most easily identified and corrected if the believers are unified. The community can offer its ideas and advice to the Assembly; one part of each Nineteen Day Feast is set aside to discuss community business and to offer suggestions and recommendations to the Assembly.

The Universal House of Justice writes:

"The friends are called upon to give their whole-hearted support and cooperation to the local Spiritual Assembly, first by voting for the membership and then by energetically pursuing its plans and programs, by turning to it in times of trouble or difficulty, by praying for its success and taking delight in its rise to influence and honor. This great prize, this gift of God within each community must be cherished, nurtured, loved, assisted, obeyed and prayed for."

The House of Justice assures us that "strengthening and development of local Spiritual Assemblies is a vital objective...

"Success in this one goal will greatly enrich the quality of Bahá’í life, will heighten the capacity of the Faith to deal with entry by troops... and, above all, will demonstrate the solidarity and ever-growing distinctiveness of the Bahá’í community, thereby attracting more and more thoughtful souls to the Faith and offering a refuge to the leaderless and hapless millions of the spiritually bankrupt, moribund present order."

From the Writings . . .

"The duties of those whom the friends have freely and conscientiously elected as their representatives are no less vital and binding than the obligations of those who have chosen them. Their function is not to dictate, but to consult, and consult not only among themselves, but as much as possible with the friends whom they represent. They must regard themselves in no other light but that of chosen instruments for a more efficient and dignified presentation of the Cause of God. They should never be led to suppose that they are the central ornaments of the body of the Cause, intrinsically superior to others in capacity or merit, and sole promoters of its teachings and principles. They should approach their task with extreme humility, and endeavor, by their open-mindedness, their high sense of justice and duty, their candor, their modesty, their entire devotion to the welfare and interests of the friends, the Cause, and humanity, to win, not only the confidence and the genuine appreciation and respect of those whom they serve, but also their esteem and real affection. They must, at all times, avoid the spirit of exclusiveness, the atmosphere of secrecy, free themselves from a domineering attitude, and banish all forms of prejudice and passion from their deliberations. They should, within the limits of wise discretion, take the friends into their confidence, acquaint them with their plans, share with them their problems and anxieties, and seek their advice and counsel. And when they are called upon to arrive at a certain decision, they should, after dispassionate, anxious and cordial consultation, turn to God in prayer, and with earnestness and conviction and courage record their vote and abide by the voice of the majority, which we are told by the Master to be the voice of truth, never to be challenged, and always to be whole-heartedly enforced. To this voice the friends must heartily respond, and regard it as the only means that can insure the protection and advancement of the Cause." (Shoghi Effendi, Bahá’í Administration, p. 64)

Discuss this passage along with the Bahá’í who taught you the Faith, or with another believer. Together, consider the following questions:

• What do you think are some of the important qualities of anyone who serves on a local Spiritual Assembly?
• How does the Assembly serve the individuals in the community?
• How can individuals serve and help the Assembly?
• What are the means of communication between the community members and the Assembly?

If you would like to read more about the local Spiritual Assembly, refer to the following materials which are available from the Bahá’í Distribution Service:

• The Local Spiritual Assembly, a compilation prepared by the Universal House of Justice.
• Bahá’í Administration, by Shoghi Effendi.

Bahá’u’lláh’s World Order renewed each year during period that marks Festival of Riḍván

From April 21 to May 2 a pattern is repeated in more than 150 countries and 30,000 localities as the national and local institutions of Bahá’u’lláh’s embryonic World Order are re-formed in annual elections.

The renewal of these institutions during this period is more than a coincidence. For these 12 days mark the anniversary of the Riḍván festival—the public declaration by Bahá’u’lláh of His Mission.

By April 1863 the enemies of Bahá’u’lláh had succeeded in having Him banished from Baghdad. However, they were soon to regret their action.

Bahá’u’lláh’s impending departure was greeted by an overwhelming outpouring of devotion, sympathy, admiration and grief by the people of Baghdad—from the leaders of the city to the poorest of its inhabitants. The prestige of the Faith was raised immeasurably.

The flood of people who wished to visit Him one last time was so great that Bahá’u’lláh was unable to meet them in His home. One prominent citizen placed a large garden at Bahá’u’lláh’s disposal. This garden, which lay at the outskirts of the city, was designated by His followers as Riḍván (Paradise).

As Bahá’u’lláh left Baghdad on horseback for the Riḍván garden, the people of the city—the vast majority of whom had no connection to the Faith—lined the streets to see Him one last time.

"Numerous were the heads," the Bahá’í historian Nabil recounts, "which, on every side, bowed to the dust at the feet of His horse, and kissed its hoofs, and countless were those who pressed forward to embrace His stirrups."

Bahá’u’lláh Himself later said that God had enabled Him to "depart out of the city, clothed with such majesty as none, except the denier and the malicious, can fail to acknowledge."

For 12 days Bahá’u’lláh stayed in the Riḍván garden. By day, He would meet with countless visitors; by night, He would reveal new verses.

"Of the exact circumstances attending that epoch-making Declaration," Shoghi Effendi writes, "we, alas, are but scantily informed. The words Bahá’u’lláh actually uttered on that occasion, the manner of His Declaration, the reaction it produced, its impact on Mirza Yahya, the identity of those who were privileged to hear Him, are shrouded in an obscurity which future historians will find it difficult to penetrate."

Nabil, telling of the spirit that permeated those days, writes:

"Every day, ere the hour of dawn, the gardeners would pick the roses which lined the four avenues of the garden, and would pile them in the center of the floor of His blessed tent. So great would be the heap that when His companions gathered to drink their morning tea in His presence, they would be unable to see each other across it.

"All these roses Bahá’u’lláh would, with His own hands, entrust to those whom He dismissed from His presence every morning to be delivered, on His behalf, to His Arab and Persian friends in the city."

Of the significance of the days in the Riḍván garden and the mighty Declaration made there, Shoghi Effendi writes:

"The 'thousand two hundred and ninety days,' fixed by Daniel in the last chapter of his Book, as the duration of the 'abomination that maketh desolate' had now elapsed. The 'hundred lunar years,' destined to immediately precede that blissful consummation (1335 days), announced by Daniel in that same chapter, had commenced.

"The nineteen years, constituting the first 'Váhid,' preordained in the Persian Bayán by the pen of the Báb, had been completed. The Lord of the Kingdom, Jesus Christ returned in the glory of the Father, was about to ascend His throne, and assume the sceptre of a world-embracing, indestructible sovereignty."

Bahá’u’lláh Himself writes of Riḍván:

"The Best-Beloved is come.... By the righteousness of the Almighty! Every hidden thing hath been manifested through the power of truth. All the favors of God have been sent down, as a token of His grace....Draw near, and tarry not, though it be for one short moment....

"Rejoice with exceeding gladness, O people of Bahá, as ye call to remembrance the Day of supreme felicity, the Day whereon the Tongue of the Ancient of Days hath spoken, as He departed from His House, proceeding to the Spot from which He shed upon the whole of creation the splendors of His name, the All-Merciful.

"God is our witness. Were We to reveal the hidden secrets of that Day, all they that dwell on earth and in the heavens would swoon away and die, except such as will be preserved by God, the Almighty, the All-Knowing, the All-Wise."

Bahá’í glossary

Bayán (pronounced buy-awn): One of the central books of the Báb; the title given by the Báb to His Revelation, particularly His books.

Manifestation (of God): A Messenger of God through Whom God's perfections and attributes are expressed, such as Moses, Buddha, Jesus, Muhammad, the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh.

About The American Bahá’í articles

On April 21, and continuing in some areas through May 2, about 1,750 local communities across the country will hold elections to re-form their local Spiritual Assemblies. Any community that has at least nine Bahá’ís over the age of 21 should, according to the explicit direction of Bahá’u’lláh, form a local Assembly.

Bahá’í elections are held in a quiet atmosphere, without nominations or campaigning. Each adult Bahá’í in the community is eligible to vote, and to be voted for. Each voter "must," according to Shoghi Effendi, "prayerfully and devotedly and after meditation and reflection elect faithful, sincere, experienced, capable and competent souls who are worthy of membership..." [Page 13]

Chinese

from page 11

where they live, and the need to reach them is equally important.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá told us that, “The Bahá’í teacher of the Chinese people must first be imbued with their spirit, know their sacred literature, study their national customs and speak to them from their own standpoint and their own terminologies. He must entertain no thought of his own but ever think of their spiritual welfare. ...”

To become this kind of teacher, with a knowledge of the Chinese language, art, customs, and so forth, would take a definite commitment from a Bahá’í who is unfamiliar with Eastern culture.

To acquire the knowledge that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá has indicated we should have, a Bahá’í may have to become “specialized” in the various aspects of Chinese culture.

This should not, however, be considered a barrier, for the Faith has grown to such proportions that it is no longer necessary that each Bahá’í be able to teach the Faith to a great variety of people.

We can study in depth, focus on minority teaching, without feeling that we are neglecting the general population. With these thoughts in mind, Counselor Isobel Sabri gave these closing remarks last summer at the International Chinese Teaching Symposium in Hong Kong:

“...the time has come when the Faith can benefit greatly from believers reaching decisions within their own minds of ways to specialize in the service of the Cause. And the field of Chinese teaching is a field in which believers can specialize.

“The reason I say this is that it is so easy to be deflected from a particular field of teaching. For example, in the United States you have a million Chinese people. ...

“There is so much going on in America, so many fields of activity, and yet the United States is the one place where there is total freedom to teach among the Chinese. And therefore it is a very important reservoir for creating teachers for the Chinese teaching work.

“So, friends, I hope that some of us will make or will be in the position to make an individual commitment to do Chinese teaching.”

Abbott

from page 4

the publisher reached manhood, he turned to the Episcopal Church and then the Presbyterian. In both he was a victim of color discrimination by mulattos.

“He retreated to the teachings of Christian Science, but withdrew when this group established separate places of worship for whites and Negroes. Before he died in 1940, he embraced Baha-ism.”

The following passage is from an article that appeared in the Defender after Mr. Abbott’s death:

“His early life as a journalist and abolitionist against wrong was one of toil, poverty and hardship. His natural instincts were never warped, or wrinkled, or numbed by learning. His mind was strong for the love of his race; his sense of justice keen and his sympathies so deep that they were even able to withstand a higher education.

“He never lost the common touch; he was a militant defender of the lowly. He believed in his race and in God.”

The Defender devoted almost its entire issue of March 9, 1940, to the life history of this remarkable man, recounting his struggles in the interest of his brothers and paying tribute to his accomplishments and ideals.

Describing his funeral service and burial, the paper cites the long list of prominent people who gathered to pay their respects to Mr. Abbott, and mentions that among those who officiated at the service was Albert Windust, then chairman of the Spiritual Assembly of Chicago.

In the ‘Spirit of the Roses,’ the Bahá’ís of Euless, Texas, sponsored a fund-raiser January 25 called the ‘Fun Fund Fair.’ About 100 Bahá’ís enjoyed games, an auction, food and hundreds of prizes. After expenses, a total of $650 was raised and donated to the National Bahá’í Fund.

World Order announces price reduction on foreign surface, air mail subscriptions

In a time of rising prices, the World Order editorial board has reduced the price of foreign surface and foreign air mail subscription rates for World Order magazine.

Prices for surface mail subscriptions are now $15 for one year and $28 for two years. Air mail subscriptions have been significantly reduced to $20 for one year and $38 for two years. The single copy price remains $3 each.

The price decrease has been made possible by TNT Skypack, an international mailing company.

Subscriptions in the U.S., Canada, Mexico and U.S. territories such as Guam remain at $10 for one year and $18 for two years.

For more information, contact Subscriber Service, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

Campus

from page 7

statement points out that “A Bahá’í College Club must keep its sponsoring body informed of its activities.”

A club’s sponsoring Assembly can be a tremendous resource. Whether planning a large event or just brainstorming, letting your sponsoring Assembly, members of the Bahá’í community, or local and/or District Teaching Committees know what you are doing can lead to new ideas and fresh approaches.

Your sponsoring Assembly may know about traveling teachers, or performers who will be in the area, and may be able to offer help in organizing a large event. And they’re always a good source of moral and spiritual support.

If you have any comments about or contributions to “Campus,” send them to the National Youth Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

Teaching Committee has docu-drama on Indian alcoholism

“The Honor of All,” a video docu-drama directed by Phil Lucas, may be borrowed from the National Teaching Committee ($15 to cover postage and handling).

The video tells the story of an Indian community moving from 100 per cent of its members being active alcoholics to 95 per cent being sober.

As only one copy is available, requests should be made well in advance of need. The video can be reserved by calling the Bahá’í National Center, 312-869-9039, extension 235.

If you can’t pioneer—deputize!

Project Nii-Jii, sponsored by the District Teaching Committee of Northern Wisconsin/Upper Michigan, began with a youth weekend in Polar, Wisconsin, January 30-February 1. The group attended a pow-wow on the Oneida Indian Reservation to meet friends from many different Reservations and let them know about the many service projects that are being planned for this summer and beyond. Anyone interested in planning his or her free time around Project Nii-Jii may write for information to Chauncey or Mary Washburn, Bryant, WI 54418, or phone them at 715-627-4909.

5th ANNUAL GREAT PLAINS COUNCIL FIRE

JULY 10 11 12 1987

The Native American Culture: Past, Present, Future Native Ceremonies will be explained and offered by Qualified Persons.

Guest Teachers / Workshops

Bear Butte, South Dakota (25 Miles North of Rapid City SD)

PRE-REGISTRATION FORM

Name: ____________________________________________________

Address: _________________________________________________

No. of Adults: ______ No. of Children: ______ No. of days attending: ______

Mail BEFORE June 1, 1987 to: Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Rapid City, Inc P.O. Box 565 Rapid City, SD 57709

For help with transportation from Rapid City to camp site you must pre-register with arrival time: DATE __________ TIME __________

Possible phone numbers: 605-342-3562 or 605-341-8306

New from Kalimát Press

MUNÍRIH KHÁNUM Memoirs and Letters

by Munírih Khánum, wife of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Translated by Sammireh Anwar Smith

The recollections of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s wife and life-long companion. Learn of her early life, her journey to ‘Akká at Bahá’u’lláh’s invitation, the circumstances of her marriage to the Master. Includes her letters to the Bahá’í world.

ISBN 0-933770-51-0 • Illustrations Retail price: $8.95* • hardcover only

Order through your local librarian, or send check or money order to:

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

• Price valid only in the United States.

[Page 14]

India Trust reprints Faizi’s Introduction

Through an arrangement with its sister institution in Wilmette, the Bahá’í Publishing Trust of India has revised and reprinted The Bahá’í Faith: An Introduction, by Gloria Faizi.

By printing the book in India it was possible to keep its price affordable for large-scale distribution. The Bahá’í Faith: An Introduction is, along with Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era, one of the first books used to introduce those investigating the Faith to the scope of its history, teachings and administration.

Expected to arrive from India late this month or in early May, The Bahá’í Faith sells for $1.50.

Overcharge noted on Bahá’í World volumes

A computer error caused some community accounts and individuals to be overcharged for The Bahá’í World, volume 18.

Those overcharged had ordered at the pre-publication price of $35. If you placed a pre-publication order and were charged more than $35, please send the blue copy of your invoice to the Bahá’í Distribution Service and you’ll receive a credit for the extra charge.

Check returns charged

The Bahá’í Distribution Service has been receiving an unfortunate number of checks returned from banks. As a result, it has become necessary to institute a $10 charge on all checks returned, for whatever reason.

The $10 charge will compensate the Distribution Service for the time it takes to contact the individual or institution that issued the check, arrange for payment, and correct its records.

Bahá’í Publications Canada has reduced the price of its special leatherbound edition of Bahá’í Readings. Because the softcover edition of Bahá’í Readings is out of print and there is still a substantial supply of the leatherbound edition, the price will be reduced from $15 to $10. Bahá’í Readings contains selected quotations for each day of the year, and virtually all the quotes are from the writings of Bahá’u’lláh, the Báb, and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

Peace compilation notice

Please note that in the Peace Compilation from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust of the United Kingdom, two lines at the top of page 11 beginning “rest of the nations ...” and ending “this Supreme Tribunal. Consider ...” should actually be the top two lines on page 10. They appear before the line beginning “what firm foundation this is!”

Look what’s coming

From the Bahá’í Publishing Trust

Reprints

PRAYERS AND MEDITATIONS, a new reprint of Shoghi Effendi’s compilation of the prayers revealed by Bahá’u’lláh, matching the latest reprint of Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. HC $14.50, pocket-sized edition, $3.75.

GOD PASSES BY, Shoghi Effendi’s classic history of the first century of the Bahá’í Revelation, in a new reprint, hardcover and softcover, similar in design to The Advent of Divine Justice. HC $21.95, SC $12.95.

New Edition of Peace Statement

THE PROMISE OF WORLD PEACE, the statement from the Universal House of Justice to the peoples of the world, in a pocket-sized edition. Fits into a man’s pocket, a woman’s purse, or a No. 10 envelope for mailing. New proclamation opportunities with smaller edition (packaged in tens). 10/$5.50.

Introductory Work

BAHÁ’U’LLÁH AND THE NEW ERA, the popular introduction to the Bahá’í Faith by John E. Esslemont, reprinted with a new design, updated statistics and facts, some new translations, and a new bibliography. SC $3.50.

Through the Bahá’í Distribution Service

WRITINGS OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH, coming from India this spring, is the first complete compilation containing all of His major works translated into English. The 717-page leatherbound volume includes: The Seven Valleys and the Four Valleys, The Hidden Words of Bahá’u’lláh, the Kitáb-i-Íqán, passages from the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh Revealed After the Aqdas, Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, Prayers and Meditations, The Fire Tablet, The Tablet of the Holy Mariner, and The Long Obligatory Prayer. Writings of Bahá’u’lláh is printed on Bible paper, so that it is easy to carry anywhere. The price of this priceless volume is $19.95.

TRISTAN is the newest title from George Ronald—the true, remarkable and moving story of Tristan Schuurman, a boy who would traditionally be called “handicapped.” His story, as told by his mother, is one of the triumph of the human spirit over the limitations of the physical. Tristan is available in hardcover for $15.95 and softcover for $7.95.

Bahá’í Distribution Service ORDER FORM

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this spring!

New Gift Booklet

THE GIFT OF LIFE is to birth what The Open Door is to death. A booklet of gems from the writings on the purpose of human creation with emphasis on the importance of education, the role of parents, the sacredness of marriage, and prayer. Similar in format to The Open Door, with matching envelope. An ideal gift for parents or parents-to-be. Packaged in tens. 10/$12.50.

New for Adults

THE PURPOSE OF PHYSICAL REALITY, by Dr. John S. Hatcher, offers a Bahá’í response to the age-old dilemma: Why has God ordained that human souls begin their lives in the physical world? An examination of the Bahá’í writings and other traditional approaches which demonstrates that the reason for physical reality is to provide unique and practical assistance to spiritual development on this plane and hereafter. SC $9.95.

New for Children

BLESSED IS THE SPOT, the fourth printing of an endearing book for children that illustrates the familiar passage from Bahá’u’lláh’s writings, set in large, easy-to-read type. Multicultural illustrations. Hardcover only, $8.95.

NIGHTINGALE is the title of a new cassette by Los Angeles-based singer Dorothy Newton-Powells who has been singing professionally for 15 years, has toured the country as a member of “The New Seekers,” and has done studio work on albums by Lionel ‎Ritchie Richie‎. Included are “The Healing Prayer,” set to music by Ms. Newton-Powells, and eight other songs that she wrote or co-wrote.

Canadian singer, songwriter and storyteller Nancy Ward has a new audio cassette available through the Bahá’í Distribution Service called WE WANT TO GROW UP. The title song is a plea for peace from a child’s point of view which combines Ms. Ward’s vocals with the Eramosa Children’s Choir. Produced by well-known Bahá’í musicians Doug Cameron and Jack Lenz, We Want to Grow Up ($8 CS) is a unique collection for children. In addition to eight songs, Ms. Ward has included two stories for children: “Aunt HoochaMagoocha” and “Mother Fox and Her Babies.”

The Six Year Plan

Fostering an appreciation of the Faith in scholarly and academic circles

The eleventh in a series of articles focused on the goals of the Six Year Plan.

There are many activities centered around our use of Bahá’í literature that will help us support the goal of the Six Year Plan that encourages us to foster appreciation of the Faith in scholarly and academic circles.

If we are students or faculty members at a university, we can offer Bahá’í reading materials to libraries, fellow students, and professors whose courses relate in some way to the Faith.

But even if we are not affiliated with a university, we can help support this important goal. We can encourage our children and youth to read books about the Faith; we can generate excitement about reading and understanding Bahá’í history; and, of course, we can place Bahá’í materials in libraries and offices and give them to individuals and organizations.

The books and magazines listed below are only a few of the many materials available to us as we find our own ways of fostering the appreciation of our Faith in scholarly and academic circles.

For a comprehensive overview of the Bahá’í Faith, its history and teachings, we can utilize a unique book published by Harper & Row. Includes chapters on administration and laws, the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, and the Bahá’í community. Ideal as a textbook on the Faith as well as an introductory book for libraries, organizations, friends and seekers. HC $15.95.

For those who are interested in black history we can use the penetrating analysis of the life of a remarkable man—Louis G. Gregory—set in the historical context of the larger community around him. An excellent example of Bahá’í scholarship that can inspire and educate us as well as non-Bahá’ís interested in black history and biography. SC $8.50.

To interest people in our American Bahá’í heritage we can draw upon a vivid chronicle that describes who the early Bahá’ís were, how nearly 1,500 converts became Bahá’ís, how the early Bahá’ís responded to the disaffection of their leader, and how the Bahá’ís became a dynamic and unified community in the face of many challenges. A fascinating and illuminating work that will interest Bahá’ís and others with a bent toward history and sociology. HC $17.95.

For a broad spectrum of essays, letters, book reviews, and poetry, we can subscribe to a quarterly magazine that strives to relate contemporary life to the Bahá’í teachings. The most recent issue includes articles on social and economic development and world education. Photographs included. Ideal as a gift to libraries and medical offices.

Subscription rates: U.S., Canada, Mexico, 1 year, $10; 2 years, $18; single copies, $3. All other countries, 1 year, $15; 2 years, $28; single copies, $3. Airmail, 1 year, $20; 2 years, $38. Please write to Subscriber Service, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. [Page 16]

STORIES OF THE MARTYRS

RUHI RAWSHANI

Ruhi Rawshani was born in 1933 to a Bahá’í family of Turkish background in Azarbayjan, in the northwestern part of Iran.

His father died when he was young, and his mother chose not to remarry, dedicating herself instead to the upbringing and education of her only child.

She opened a school to support herself and Ruhi, but it was closed when it became known that she was a Bahá’í.

She then moved to Tehran and opened a tailor shop, which provided the family with an income. Meanwhile, Ruhi was going to school and spending his spare time traveling, teaching and working for the Faith.

Mother and son loved each other very much, and Ruhi used to say that the most important thing in life for him was the Faith, and after that, his mother.

Ruhi Rawshani was graduated at age 23 from the College of Humanities at the University of Tehran with a degree in history and geography, after which he secured a job with the Ministry of Culture, which was responsible for providing teachers for grade schools and high schools. Mr. Rawshani, who was devoted to the progress and education of youth, became a teacher himself.

He was given permission during the lifetime of Shoghi Effendi to go on pilgrimage with his mother, and his meeting with the Guardian was a precious and influential moment.

For a while afterward he was a homefront pioneer in Sari, a town in the north of Iran, where he became chairman of the local Spiritual Assembly.

His Bahá’í activities soon became the cause of trouble at work. He had written a book on the question of the Bahá’í understanding of “Seal of the Prophets,” a phrase from the Qur’án that Muslims generally construe as proof that Muhammad was the final Prophet to be sent by God.

As a result, he lost his teaching job and was transferred to the Ministry of Agriculture.

When his mother died, Mr. Rawshani married and started his own family in Tehran. He became a member of the Spiritual Assembly of Tehran, a community of more than 50,000 Bahá’ís.

The Assembly in Tehran met

See MARTYR page 29

Area committees are ‘eyes, arms’ of NPAAC

The National Persian/American Affairs Committee (NPAAC) was called into being in 1979 by the National Spiritual Assembly to tend to the special needs created by the influx of Persian Bahá’ís who came to this country as a result of the brutal and systematic persecution of the Faith in Iran, and to provide the atmosphere and framework in which integration of the Persian believers into the American Bahá’í community could take place most expeditiously.

In the early 1980s, several area Persian/American Affairs Committees (APAACs) were formed to help NPAAC carry out its work at the local level.

In 1983, the Universal House of Justice recommended that the National Assembly “expand the wonderful services of the Persian/American Affairs Committee through the instrumentality of regional committees.”

There are now 15 such Area Persian/American Affairs Committees throughout the country in areas where there are large concentrations of Persian believers. The 15 APAACs are in the following areas:

Atlanta, Georgia; Boston, Massachusetts; Chicago, Illinois; Dallas and Houston, Texas; New York City; Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego, California; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Phoenix, Arizona; Portland, Oregon; Salt Lake City, Utah; Seattle, Washington; and Washington, D.C.

The primary purposes of these Area Persian/American Affairs Committee are to serve as resource agencies for surrounding communities and to help them with the process of integration by planning activities, helping to create a greater awareness of the importance of cross-cultural unity in our Bahá’í communities, and helping to implement the concrete means by which this unity can be fostered and developed.

The membership of the APAACs usually reflects the diversity of the surrounding Bahá’í community. Every APAAC has at least two American members, and all meetings are conducted in English.

Specific objectives of the APAACs include:

• familiarizing the Persian friends with Bahá’í administrative practices in the U.S.,
• welcoming newly arrived refugees,
• helping and encouraging the Persian friends to learn English,
• encouraging the Persian friends to resettle in homefront goal areas,
• encouraging the Persian friends, especially youth, to sharpen their Persian-language skills and to deepen in the original languages of revelation.

The most important goal of the APAACs, however, is acculturation; they must help educate the friends, Persian and American alike, to appreciate the unique characteristics of one another’s cultural heritage and to learn to work together in serving the Cause of God.

It should be emphasized that the process of acculturation is as much the responsibility of the American friends as it is that of the Persian friends.

The National Persian/American Affairs Committee sees the need for imparting a sense of mission to the Iranian Bahá’ís who find themselves in an unfamiliar environment, usually due to circumstances beyond their control.

The Iranian ‎Bahá’í’s Bahá’ís‎ residing in the U.S. must be helped to realize the unique role they can play in the emergence of the Faith from obscurity and the great contribution they can make to the realization of the destiny of the American Bahá’í community.

The American believers as well as the Persian should view the present situation as a challenge and an opportunity, brought about by the operation of the Divine Will.

When all concerned make the necessary efforts, the Persian and American friends will be able, together, to demonstrate the potentialities latent in the Cause for the creation of a unified community and culture, in which people of varied ethnic, racial, linguistic and cultural backgrounds can actively and constructively cooperate and work together.

Such unity in diversity will make the Bahá’í community, which has been offered to the peoples of the world as “a model for study” in the peace statement of the Universal House of Justice, a compelling proof that “humanity can live as one global society.”

The Area Persian/American Affairs Committees are there to help local communities, District Teaching Committees and individuals achieve the goals outlined above.

If your community would like to consult with an APAAC, or would like help planning meetings or conferences focusing on integration, please contact the APAAC nearest you.

Ohio fund-raiser set to help renovate Dorothy Baker home

The District Teaching Committee of Northern Ohio has planned a fund-raising event May 16 to help renovate the former home of the Hand of the Cause of God Dorothy Baker in Lima, Ohio.

The speaker at the auction and formal dinner/dance will be Dorothy Baker’s daughter, Louise Baker Mathias.

Tickets are $25 per person (no children under 12). For information, contact Mrs. Shiva Neyestani, Mansfield, OH 44903, or phone 419-529-2122.

A fund-raising auction is planned later this year, for which high-quality items are being sought including art, jewelry, books and Bahá’í collectibles. Of special interest would be items associated with Dorothy Baker.

Please send any items you wish to contribute to Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Bennett, Lima, OH 45804. Be sure to include an estimate of value.

For more information, phone Peggy Neumann, 419-332-0943.

Reinstated

The National Spiritual Assembly is pleased to announce the reinstatement of Mrs. Frances Lequiere to the Bahá’í Faith.

Archives seeks number of books

The National Bahá’í Archives is seeking copies of the following books, in good or excellent condition: The Promised Day Is Come (cloth, 1943), Bahá’í Administration (paper, 1986), The Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh (paper, 1937), God Passes By (cloth, 1957, 4th printing), and Principles of Bahá’í Administration (paper, 1963, 2nd edition).

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

Van Manens plan summer teaching trip through Midwest, Canada, New England

Dave and Helene Van Manen, professional musicians and entertainers from Beulah, Colorado, are planning a teaching trip this summer that will take them from Colorado through the Midwest, eastern Canada and New England to New York City.

The Van Manens and their two children traveled 8,500 miles last summer sharing the gift of music through firesides, concerts, deepenings and workshops.

This summer, they’ll focus on children’s programs (i.e., children’s museums, libraries) as well as on performances for senior citizens and at psychiatric/hospital centers.

In early 1986 the Van Manens released an audio cassette entitled “Wage Peace,” and plan to release a new album for children early in June.

“Wage Peace,” available through Kalimát Press, is a collection of original folk-style songs that is popular with both Bahá’í and non-Bahá’í audiences.

The Van Manens will offer a number of programs to Bahá’í communities including their musical workshop, “Peace Will Come and Let It Begin with Me”; their family music night, “Barley Bread & Reindeer Milk and Other Musical Munchies”; “Divine Therapy”; and “Who Is Bahá’u’lláh and What Is Faith.”

The Van Manens’ teaching efforts are supported by their performances. Communities that are interested in having them teach and perform in their area should contact national Travel Teacher Coordinator Dale Sollars at 208-785-4495 (home) or 208-526-1963 (work).

‘Equality of Sexes’ conference planned

An “Equality of the Sexes” conference will be held July 18-19 in Seneca Falls, New York, the birthplace of the American women’s rights movement.

Speakers! Workshops! Entertainment! Reserve these dates, and look for more details in upcoming issues of The American Bahá’í.

FINAL CALL FOR PAPERS

"THE GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE"

HAIFA, ISRAEL — JUNE 29-JULY 2, 1987

The Thirteenth Conference will be hosted by the University of Haifa and will allow participants to focus on ways of achieving a global perspective in our colleges and universities. This interdisciplinary conference will also bring together educators from more than 30 countries to explore and compare innovative methods of using technology, ways to relate teaching styles to learning styles, the impact of part-time students and part-time faculty, the uses of distance education, and the issues of university reform around the globe. The conference offers a variety of formal and informal participatory formats to encourage participants to become involved in dialogue.

For a copy of the Call for Papers and submission guidelines, write the address below. Papers are due February 1, 1987.

Improving University Teaching The University of Maryland University College University Boulevard at Adelphi Road College Park, MD 20742 USA [Page 17]

BAHÁ’Í SCHOOLS 1987 SUMMER SCHEDULE

Bosch • Green Acre • Louhelen • Native American Institute Plus 29 Regional Schools

GREEN ACRE

Summer conferences at Green Acre will focus on marriage, the family, the Bahá’í community, and meeting the goals of the Six Year Plan. The 75th anniversary of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit to America and Green Acre will highlight summer activities. Restoration of this historic place has been officially launched and improvements have already begun.

“I want you to be happy in Green Acre, to laugh, to smile and rejoice in order that others may be made happy by you.”—‘Abdu’l-Bahá

July 4-9: “Fun in the Fourth Epoch,” Counselor Robert Harris. Creating unity in your community and in the world. “Everything Shoghi Effendi Wanted You to Know About the Bahá’í Faith: A Study of ‘The Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh,’” Barbara Harris, Janet and Rodney Richards.

July 11-12: “Bahá’í Perspectives on Christianity,” Rob Stockman. The Bahá’í Writings on the Bible and Jesus, the early history of Christianity, and the church today. Mr. Stockman, author of The Bahá’í Faith in America, is a doctoral candidate at the Harvard Divinity School.

July 13-16: “The Kitáb-i-Aqdas,” John Walbridge. The Mother Book of the Bahá’í Revelation: its history, laws and ordinances, and its relation to the Qur’án and the Bayan. Dr. Walbridge is general editor of the forthcoming Bahá’í encyclopedia, and earned his degree in Islamic studies at Harvard University. “Mothers, Fathers and Children, and How the Family Works,” Linda Walbridge. How the Bahá’í Writings on the roles of family members can establish healthy families. Mrs. Walbridge has a degree in psychology and is working in child and family mental health programs.

July 18-19: An as-yet untitled class to be conducted by Leonard Smith, a management and organization specialist.

July 20-23: “Unfolding Implications of the Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh,” Auxiliary Board member Edward Diliberto. Mr. Diliberto is a popular speaker at schools and conferences on the West Coast, and Green Acre is happy to welcome him for his first course at this school. “The Art of Persuasion,” Michael Winger-Bearskin. You can improve your ability to communicate by improving your listening, questioning, encouraging and other skills. Mr. Winger-Bearskin is a marketing education specialist for a large multi-national corporation.

July 25-26: “Racial Prejudice: The Most Vital and Challenging Issue” (teachers to be announced).

July 27-30: “New Understandings of the Principle of the Equality of Men and Women,” a course to be presented by the National Committee on Women. “Marriage, Family and the Bahá’í Community,” Marvin Hughes. Important issues in marriage including selecting a marriage partner and looking at different types of marriage. Dr. Hughes, a psychotherapist specializing in marriage and family counseling, is a former professor of psychiatry at the Michigan State University School of Medicine.

August 1-2: “Strengthening Bahá’í Families,” Richard DaBell and Hoda Mahmoudi DaBell. The Bahá’í and historical concept of the institutions of marriage and the family, and some of the crises confronting those institutions.

August 3-6: “Building for a New World,” Mildred Mottahedeh. Mrs. Mottahedeh, who has served on the International Bahá’í Council and the International Goals Committee, and as a Bahá’í representative to the United Nations, provides leadership to many business and development projects around the world.

August 8-9: “Green Acre Mid-Summer Teaching Conference.” How to find your place in the Six Year Plan. The main speakers will be Auxiliary Board members William Roberts and Mara Khavari.

August 10-13: “The Bahá’í Approach to Development,” Ethel Martens. Dr. Martens, who has worked in primary health care since 1954 in the Arctic, Latin America, Africa and Asia and served from 1982-86 as executive secretary of the Bahá’í International Health Agency, is integrating health care into development programs in Africa and India. “Bahá’í Community Development: Precepts and Practice,” Craig Lewis. The peace statement offers the Bahá’í community as a model for study to the non-Bahá’í world. What is that model? How do we move toward it? Dr. Lewis is an educational consultant and faculty member at the University of New Mexico’s College of Education.

August 15-20: “A Commemoration: The 75th Anniversary of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Visit to Green Acre.” A week of celebration—special programs and workshops with music, drama, dance, and more, featuring Donna Kime, Anne Atkinson, Marvin (Doc) Holladay and others.

August 22-23: “‘Abdu’l-Bahá,” Auxiliary Board member Javidukht Khadem. During the anniversary of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s last two days at Green Acre, the school is very pleased that Mrs. Khadem will give the weekend program on the Master.

August 24-27: “The Word of God,” Auxiliary Board member Charles (Cap) Cornwell. Mr. Cornwell has served on the Florida Schools Committee, the National Youth Committee, and as secretary of the National Teaching Committee. “The Hour of Deliverance of the World,” Afaf Stevens. Looking at the Báb’s Writings to understand His claim to be the Promised One that Muhammad had prophesied and that the Shaykhis were expecting.

August 29-30: “Green Acre’s Fifth Annual Association for Bahá’í Studies Regional Conference.” Everyone is invited to attend the lectures and discussions, which will begin Saturday morning. Mrs. Jacquie Jones will give the Farmer Family Memorial Lecture at 2 p.m. Saturday; Dr. Roy Jones, director of the Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute, will speak on Sunday morning.

Registration: For registration materials or further information, please write to the Green Acre Bahá’í School, P.O. Box 17, Eliot, ME 03903, or phone 207-439-0019. Discounts and reduced rates are available with advance registration. Please plan to register at least 15 days in advance of a scheduled program.

LOUHELEN

April 24-26: Regional Youth Conference. Workshops and talks planned by youth, for youth. Complete devotional, social and recreational program. Note: Adults bringing a carload of youth may work during the weekend at no cost or study on their own for 50 per cent off.

May 15-17: Third Annual Conference for Parents and Children. Classes and activities for children 0-10 with workshops for parents on child-rearing, educating for peace, and family life.

June 5-7: A Male-Female Dialogue on the Equality of Men and Women (note date changes). As an outgrowth of last June’s outstanding Women’s Conference, this session will provide an opportunity for men and women to consult frankly on the implications of the Bahá’í teachings on the roles of men and women during this phase of the development of the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh. Early registration is advised. To allow those attending to participate fully, no children’s program will be offered.

July 3-6: Fourth Annual National Teacher Training Week. An outstanding training program for teachers and administrators of local Bahá’í children’s classes. Local Assemblies and Bahá’í schools are encouraged to send representatives.

July 10-14: “A Singular Experience” Conference for Singles. A continuation of the “spiritual intimacy” created at the February ’87 Singles Conference. Five days of fellowship, deepening, devotions, recreation, discovery, spiritual intimacy—that familial bonding. Special workshops to be announced; children’s program planned.

July 19-24: Family Session. Theme of “Balancing Family, Work and the Bahá’í Life” with Auxiliary Board member Stephen Birkland and Mrs. Nadjala Birkland; other teachers to be announced. Family recreational, devotional, consultative and other activities planned to create an atmosphere in which new and enriching patterns of family interaction can be formed.

July 26-31: Intensive Study Week. Five days of intensive study of the Revelation are offered involving full days of classes, intensive discussions, library research, and private devotions and meditation. Three intensives offered during this week: Youth Academy for youth ages 15-25; Intensive conducted in Persian (teacher to be announced); Intensive conducted in English (teacher to be announced).

August 2-7: General Session I. Classes and activities for adults, youth and children. Teachers to include Auxiliary Board member Ed Diliberto (“The Unfolding Implications of the Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh”) and Vanessa Clark (“The Most Challenging Issue”). An outstanding time for the whole family!

August 9-14: General Session II. Classes and activities for adults, youth and children. Teachers to include Dr. David Earl (“The Hidden Words”) and Auxiliary Board member Trudy White (“Deepening the Spiritual Life”). An outstanding time for the whole family!

August 16-21: Youth Week. Classes, recreation, devotions, consultation, and other activities for Junior and Senior Youth.

August 23-28: Children’s Camp. Combines spiritual, educational, social, emotional and physical development for children in a camp-style program. The goal is to create an environment of positive ideas and attitudes leading to expanded personal awareness, improved self-image, matured social skills, new recreational skills, and a renewed connection with, and understanding of, what it means to be a Bahá’í. James Lewicki, camp director. Ages 7-10, although children slightly younger or older will be considered, space permitting.

September 4-7: Homecoming Weekend. Traditional social occasion at which Louhelen alumni, old and new, gather for fellowship, recreation, inspiration and especially, fun. Also, the launching of a project to prepare a full history of the school. “Old-time” alumni are especially requested to come!

Note: All sessions provide a program for children ages 11 and under except where otherwise noted. See upcoming issues of The American Bahá’í for fuller descriptions of programs, or write to the school.

For information, rates or to register, write to the Louhelen Bahá’í School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423, or phone 313-653-5033.

BOSCH

Summer ’87 at the Bosch Bahá’í School offers a variety of ways to learn about valuing differences and eliminating prejudice, about the preservation of human honor—an essential aspect of social and economic development—about the art of consultation, about Bahá’í history, about men and women, and about the acquisition of true wealth. Each day will begin with a study from the Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh.

Week 1, June 20-25: Junior Youth Week (limited to ages 12-15). Students will be under the direction of capable teachers and cabin counselors. No sponsor is required.

Week 2, June 27-July 2: “Consultation—Embodying Personal Attributes.” Michael Bond of the Chinese University, Hong Kong, will lead a creative but disciplined workshop to help develop the personal attributes necessary for good consultation. Also: Session in the Dynamics of Family Consultation. “Sweeping Away Illusions—Moving Beyond Prejudice.” Flora McPherson, professional musician and mother of musicians, will identify ways in which to appreciate and capitalize on racial and cultural differences. Nature Study: Summer in the Redwoods.

Week 3, July 4-9: “The Search for Identity—Discovery Unlimited.” Ernest and Barbara Bruss of Albuquerque, New Mexico, will explore some of the ways Bahá’ís engage in the process of individuation like everyone else—while, at the same time and as a part of the same process, they seek unity. Ernest Bruss is a businessman and consultant; Barbara Bruss, an adoptee herself who has traced her natural family, will consider the Bahá’í teachings on family ties and parental consent for marriage. “The Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.” Theodies Washington of Washington, D.C., a consultant in management, training and development, will lead an in-depth study of this document, which is unique in religious history. Also: The Challenge of Cross-Cultural Relations/The Bahá’í Community Model. “Systematic Training for Effective Parenting.” Linda Kelley, a teacher and consultant from Portland, Oregon, will use as texts STEP materials, the compilation on “Bahá’í Marriage and Family Life,” and the Parent Education Package from the National Teaching Committee.

Week 4, July 11-16: “Human Relationships and the Paralysis of Will.” Robin Chandler of Boston, an artist and creator of inter-cultural arts projects, is the author of this human relations course piloted at the Green Acre Bahá’í School. Special evening program: “An Evening of World Culture of the Arts,” Robin Chandler. In addition, students will select one of the following intensive classes, which will give them an opportunity for in-depth study in [Page 18]

Bosch

from page 17

small groups. Option 1: “History of the Shaykhi Movement.” Studying the contributions of Shaykh Ahmad Ahsa’i and Siyyid Kazim-i-Rashti. Saeed Nahvi, a traveling teacher under the direction of the Universal House of Justice, will use material not generally available in English. Option 2: “The Preservation of Human Honor.” Marion West, bringing a lifetime of service around the world and at the Bahá’í National Center, will probe the possibilities of this phrase, relating honor to the inner reality of man.

Week 5, July 18-23: “Appreciating Gender Differences.” Juana Conrad, founder of Women for International Peace and Arbitration and a member of the National Committee for Women, challenges men and women to achieve that balance which is a prerequisite to world peace. “The Evolution of the Bahá’í Community: Encouraging and Managing Change.” James Mock, fresh from years of service at the Bahá’í National Center, will identify the differences between principle and procedure and present a workshop in consultation skills. Also, a music workshop for children and adults.

Week 6, July 24-27 (special three-day session, Friday-Monday): “The Most Challenging Issue.” Auxiliary Board members Miguel Osborne will challenge students to re-examine the imperative of racial harmony, a prerequisite to world peace. “Some Christian Subjects: A Bahá’í View.” James Mock, who will conduct this class, is a student of the Bible and Christianity in America. Also, the ecology of the Redwoods.

Week 7, July 31-August 6 (special six-day session, Friday-Thursday): “Improving the Lot of Man, Beginning in the Bahá’í Community.” Robert Wilson, a businessman and author, pioneer to Nicaragua and former secretary of the National Teaching Committee, will present challenges for personal and community growth. Special evening program, “A Sampler of International Folk Songs and Dances,” with Susan Berkman. In addition, students will choose one of the following intensive classes which will give them an opportunity for in-depth study in small groups. Option 1: “The Art and Craft of Consultation.” Susan Berkman, assistant director of training at the Braille Institute in Los Angeles, will incorporate some materials from “The Power of Unity” in a workshop designed to sharpen consultation skills and interpersonal perceptions. Option 2: “The Life of Bahá’u’lláh.” Hedayat Rahimi, a scholar of Bahá’í history, will focus on Bahá’u’lláh’s years in Baghdad; he recommends reading in advance and bringing Bahá’u’lláh: The King of Glory by Balyuzi and God Passes By, and studying those parts relating to the life of Bahá’u’lláh.

Week 8, August 8-13: “Global Transformation—Necessity for Application of the Covenant.” James Nelson, chairman, and Dorothy Nelson, Treasurer of the National Spiritual Assembly, will bring to this vital topic their wide experience in the Bahá’í community and their professional experience in the fields of law and ethics. “Crossing Cultural Bridges—Appreciating Differences.” Guity Kiani, workshop leader, is a professional in cross-cultural education. Bring costumes, music, international arts and crafts.

Week 9, August 15-20: “The Ocean of God’s Words.” Fred Littman, a research chemist, will lead an in-depth exploration into the living waters of the Creative Word. “The Promulgation of Universal Peace.” Robert Malouf, a nutrition counselor, will use this text and the Universal House of Justice’ statement “to the peoples of the world” to expand the vision and increase commitment to the mission of peace-making. Also, music workshop for children and adults.

Week 10, August 22-27: “The Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh.” Jalil Mahmoudi, professor emeritus of sociology, University of Utah, recommends reading the text in advance. “The Destiny of America.” Debra Taylor, a National Treasurer’s representative, will present a look at materialism and the role America must play in the unfoldment of a world civilization. Also, “Where There’s a Will.” Implementing the Bahá’í obligation to write a will. And ecology of the redwoods, or sound imagery in the Creative Word.

Notes: Weeks 2 through 10 are General Sessions with programs for all ages over one year. Whenever a particular text is mentioned, please bring or plan to purchase a copy. Teachers and classes are subject to change.

To register, please send a non-refundable $15 deposit to the Registrar, Bosch Bahá’í School, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060. Phone registrations can be made, using VISA or MasterCard, by phoning 408-423-3387. Prior to the beginning of summer sessions, normal office hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific time, Wednesday through Sunday. Information phone, with a taped message updating session and registration information, 408-423-3093.

Green Lake Bahá’í Conference

The 28th annual Green Lake Bahá’í Conference will be held September 18-20 at the Green Lake Conference Center in south central Wisconsin.

This year’s roster of outstanding speakers includes Counselor Robert Harris; Judge Dorothy W. Nelson, treasurer of the National Spiritual Assembly (tentative); and Auxiliary Board members Javidukht Khadem and Morris Taylor.

As usual, sessions will be held in the quiet lakeside seclusion of the American Baptist Association grounds whose accommodations range from primitive to deluxe with camping, cottages, dorms, hotel rooms and large luxury homes available.

While the variety of accommodations is great, the number in each category is limited. Room reservations should be made as soon as possible to assure your first choice. Meals are served cafeteria-style on site.

Recreational facilities, all within the Conference Center, include acres of serene meadows and woodlands, an indoor pool, bicycling, fishing, tennis, golf, and miles of nature trails through scenic hills, valleys and woods.

To calculate the cost, add the following three items:

1. Conference fees: overnight adults (12 and older), $11; overnight children (infant-11), $6; maximum family fee (parents and children 0-11), $33; day guest students (12 and older), $6; day guest children (infant-11), $6.

2. Accommodations: children under 11, no charge if staying with parents, buying all meals. Everyone else (12-adult), dormitory-style room (1-2 per room) with central bath, $12-$26; rooms with semi-private bath (1-3 per room), $17-$28; rooms with private bath (1-4 per room), $18-$40; limited camp sites, cabins, cottages and large luxury homes available. Contact the ABA directly for availability and costs.

3. Meal costs: Children 5 and under, no charge; children (6-11), breakfast, $2.10; lunch, $3.10; dinner, $3.95; adults (12 and older), breakfast, $3.65; lunch, $4.75; dinner, $6.15. All overnight guests must take meal plan unless accommodations have cooking facilities.

Send all registration correspondence to: Green Lake Conference Center, American Baptist Assembly, Green Lake, WI 54941, or phone 414-294-3323.

For program information only, write to the Planning Committee Secretary, Sue Schaut, Sun Prairie, WI 53590, or phone 608-837-8609.

NATIVE AMERICAN INSTITUTE

The Native American Bahá’í Institute will be a center of activity this summer for the Navajo-Hopi Teaching Project, and will conduct ongoing teacher orientation and deepenings.

Volunteers will be invited to help with the construction of new classroom facilities as part of their Navajoland experience.

Workshops and deepenings for the translation of the Bahá’í Writings into Navajo will be held periodically throughout the summer.

The annual Inter-Cultural Council Fire is planned for this summer. Date to be announced.

Specific schedules and information about the service opportunities at NABI are available from: Native American Bahá’í Institute, P.O. Box 167, Houck, AZ 86506 (phone 602-367-8595 or 602-367-5126, ext. 8595).

REGIONAL SCHOOLS

ALABAMA

Dates: July 23-26. Location: ‎Monte Vallo Montevallo‎ State University, ‎Monte Vallo Montevallo‎, AL. Theme: “Reflections on Destiny.” Speakers will include Auxiliary Board member Soo Fouts. Note: Youth and youthful adults will enjoy the recreational activities planned as well as separate programs planned for everyone. Accommodations: Private dorm rooms with baths. Meals at the school cafeteria. Classrooms: Classes will be held in the various university classrooms and auditorium. Recreation: Gymnasium is available for basketball, volleyball and other games. Also, swimming, tennis, soccer and various table tournaments. Rates: Write or phone the registrar. Pre-registration: By July 1. Registrar: Parviz Anvar, Florence, AL 35630; phone 205-764-5168.

ARIZONA

Dates: July 4th weekend. Location: Belmont Properties, Flagstaff, AZ. Accommodations: Camping/hotels nearby; hotel accommodations must be made early as this is a resort area. Registrar: Roberta Mevis, Phoenix, AZ 85029 (phone 602-375-0919 or 602-993-2833).

ARKANSAS

Dates: September date to be announced; please call registrar. Registrar: Fran Huber, Jacksonville, AR 72076 (phone 501-985-1336).

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Dates: August 21-26. Location: Pilgrim Pines, Yucaipa, CA. Accommodations: Cabins. Classrooms: Classes for children, youth and adults. Recreation: Swimming, volleyball. Rates: To be announced. Registrar: Al Lewis, Los Angeles, CA 90065 (phone 213-223-7781).

COLORADO (WESTERN)

Dates: August 13-16. Location: Camp Illium, five miles from Telluride, CO. Theme: “Spiritual Enrichment.” Accommodations: Rustic mountain location; dorm accommodations, limited family units, tent space. Excellent meals, cafeteria style. Recreation: Volleyball, hiking, fishing. Rates: Reasonable. Registrar: Robin Richardson, Grand Junction, CO 81503 (phone 303-245-1399).

DAYSPRING

Dates: July 2-5. Location: Western Maryland College, Westminster. Theme: “Celebrating Diversity.” Accommodations: Garden apartments, dormitories; cafeteria food available at the college. Note: The Dayspring Bahá’í School offers a refreshing balance of intensive study, exciting entertainment, outdoor activities, and loving friendship in a Bahá’í atmosphere. Join us in the lovely green hills of central Maryland as we celebrate the special gift of our unity in diversity. Classrooms: College classrooms, private lounge for youth meetings. Recreation: Swimming, volleyball, baseball. Rates: Pre-registered, $10; if not pre-registered, $20. Rates include lodging/meals for the entire school period. Adults: dorms, $68.50; apartments, $74.50. Children age 10 and under, $31.25 to $59.75. Day students: adults, $35.50; children, $20.75. Pre-registration date: June 5. Registrar: Mavis Vaughan, Walden Laurel Court, Baltimore, MD 21207 (phone 301-747-1302).

FLORIDA

Dates: July 3-6. Location: To be announced. Theme: “The Great Adventure.” Information: Contact the Bahá’í Center, 1-800-592-1414.

GEORGIA

Information: Write to the Registrar, William Varner, Griffin, GA 30223, or phone 404-228-8111.

HEARTLAND (ILLINOIS)

Dates: July 2-5. Location: Camp Heffernan, Bloomington, IL. Theme: “The Creative Word: Building the Bonds of Unity.” Note: Come to the Heartland for a “heartwarming” Bahá’í school experience. Accommodations: Lodging in spacious dorm-style cabins or tent camping; meals served family style. Classrooms: Adult class in dining hall, children’s classes and nursery in cabins or pavilions. Recreation: Lake Bloomington offers swimming, boating, hiking and other outdoor sports. There will be evening social activities. Rates: (Approximate—final rates may vary slightly.) Adults, $60; youth, $45; junior youth, $35; children, $35; infants, $15. Pre-registration: By June 18. Registrars: Scott and Debbie Martin, Carmi, IL 62821 (phone 618-382-3771).

IDAHO

Dates: June 17-21. Location: Camp Sawtooth, Sun Valley/Ketchum, ID. Theme: “Teaching and the Master Teacher.” Note: We have gift certificates available. Help send a friend, child or youth to school with a gift of partial or fully paid school fees. Accommodations: Rustic cabins nestled in the pines of the Sawtooth mountain range; cold mountain nights make warm bedding and coats a must. Family style meals in lodge. Classrooms: Classrooms for ages 2-4 years, 5-6 years, 7-9 years, 10-12 years, youth, adult (crafts). Recreation: Mountain setting for walks; volleyball, basketball. [Page 19]The Bahá’í community of Fort Wayne, Indiana, took part in the local observance December 31 of the ‘World Instant for Peace’ by reading excerpts from ‘The Promise of World Peace’ and Foundations of World Unity and singing ‘One Planet, One People ... Please’ (the only part of the program televised on two local TV stations). About 500 people attended the event, at which the Bahá’ís gave away balloons bearing the messages ‘One Planet, One People ... Please’ and ‘Wage Peace.’ Pictured with some of her balloons is Sophie Richardson of Fort Wayne.

Rates: Facility fee, $35. Full-time day students, $35 plus meal fees; week-end day students, $25 plus meal fees; adults (10 and up), $70; youth, $70; junior youth, $70; children (4-9 years), $45; infants, free. Registrar: Seme Newlin, (Massacre Rocks State Park), American Falls, ID 83211 (phone 208-548-2677 or 208-237-2000).

INDIANA (NUR’U’LLAH)

Dates: June 15-21. Location: Camp Kikthawenund, Frankton, IN (12 miles northwest of Anderson). Theme: “World Peace: The Role of the Individual.” Speaker: Auxiliary Board member Javidukht Khadem. Accommodations: Dormitories (2), one for boys/men, one for girls/women. Tent or small trailer camping with hookups. Camp cooks prepare excellent meals in the camp dining lodge. Classrooms: Classes for children, youth and adults. Recreation: Hiking; swimming in camp pool. Rates: With pre-registration—adults and children (10 and up), $77; children 3-9, $56; children 1-2, $40; children 0-1, $5. Without pre-registration—adults and children (10 and up), $87; children 3-9, $66; children 1-2, $50; children 0-1, $6. Pre-registration: May 25. Registrar: Jerry Geicko, 317-395-9006.

IOWA

Dates: July 2-5. Location: Scattergood Friends School near West Branch, IA. Theme: “Consultation: The Shining Spark of Truth.” Note: More than 174 attended last year from six states. Accommodations: Dorm lodging available on a first-come, first-served basis for 75 beds; large cafeteria for meals for everyone. Camping available and many motels nearby. Classrooms: Classes are planned for every age level. Recreation: Gym, hockey, soccer fields, roller skating. Rates: Includes all meals and dorm facilities plus registration fees. Adults, $50; youth (9 and older), $50; junior youth (4-8), $25; children under 4, $13; day students, $12. Pre-registration: June 13. Registrar: Bill Cave, Marshalltown, IA 50158 (phone 515-753-5233).

LOUISIANA/MISSISSIPPI

Dates: July 16-19. Location: Roosevelt State Park, Morton, MS. Theme: “The Bahá’í Faith: It’s a Family Affair, Part II.” Accommodations: Eight air-conditioned cabins sleeping 14 each. Bring your own linen and towels. Eight meals provided in an air-conditioned cafeteria. Classrooms: Two large air-conditioned classrooms, eight cabins, covered outdoor pavilion. Recreation: Hiking, swimming, boating, fishing, paddleboat, water skiing, softball, volleyball. Rates: 1-2-3 day rates available. Full package: adults, $57.17; youth, $57.17; junior youth, $52.45; children, $52.45; infants (under 3 years), free. Day students, $5.83/night; $3.71 meal. Registration fee: $5. Pre-registration: June 16. Registrar: Kenneth Broussard, P.O. Box 991, New Orleans, LA 70148 (phone 504-446-1826).

MASSANETTA SPRINGS (VIRGINIA)

Dates: August 28-30. Location: Massanetta Springs Conference Center, near Harrisonburg, VA. Theme: “The Six Year Plan.” Accommodations: Hotel, motel, dormitory, camping. Classrooms: Workshops, family activities, guest speakers. Recreation: Swimming, hiking, camping, outdoor games. Rates: To be announced later. Pre-registration: August 14. Registrar: Mary Lukens, Winchester, VA 22601 (phone 703-662-7005).

MINNESOTA

Dates: July 12-16. Location: Camp Onomia, Onomia, MN. Theme: “Building the Divine Edifice Through Equality and Consultation.” Accommodations: Central camp cabin with private rooms for families or individuals; meals provided; linen rental $4 ($10 deposit). Classroom: Children, youth and adult classes. Recreation: Swimming, boating, shuffleboard, softball; nursery care available. Rates: Not available at this time. Registrar: Steve Grams, Togo, MN 55788 (phone 612-235-6530).

MONTANA

Dates: July 19-25. Location: Lions Camp, Red Lodge, MT. Theme: “Becoming Family.” Accommodations: Rustic cabins with electricity, communal bathroom facilities, meals planned family style—special dietary needs filled upon request. Classrooms: Administration building for adult classes, main lodge and library building for children’s classes; nursery will be available. Recreation: Volleyball, horseshoes, softball, group outdoor games, some supervised hiking. Rates: Adults, $100; youth, $100; junior youth (8-14 years), $60; children (3-7), $50; infants (0-2), $30. Registrar: Tami Haaland, Bozeman, MT 59715 (phone 406-586-9320).

NEW JERSEY

Dates: June 5-7. Location: Georgian Court College, Lakewood, NJ. Theme: “Individual Response to the Covenant: Contribution or Commitment.” Accommodations: Dormitories. Classrooms: Classes for children, youth and adults. Recreation: Tennis, hiking. Rates: Deposit, $15 per person and older (non-refundable) for overnight. Adults (19 years and older), $55 overnight; full-time college students, $40 overnight; family members (3-18 years), $30 overnight (under 3 years, free). Day students: adults, $10 registration fee plus meals; ‎fulltime full-time‎ college, $10 registration fee plus meals; ages 3-18, $5 registration fee plus meals; under 3 years, free. Pre-registration: May 22. Registrar: Edward A. Segen, Bluebell Road, Franklinville, NJ 08322 (phone 609-697-2616).

NEW MEXICO (GLADYS WEEDEN INSTITUTE)

Dates: September 5-7. Location: Camp Chimney Spring, James Canyon Route, Cloudcroft, NM. Theme: “Living the Six Year Plan.” Accommodations: Cabins, hogans, R-Vs, tents; provide your meals. Classrooms: Cabins, large hall. Recreation: Hiking, volleyball, nature trails. Rates: Contact registrar. Pre-registration: No later than August 15. Registrar: Wes Aldrich, P.O. Box 1561, Ruidoso, NM 88345 (phone 505-257-2813).

NORTH CAROLINA

For information, contact the registrar. Registrar: Diane McKinley, Cary, NC 27511 (phone 919-469-2783).

OREGON (WEST) BADASHT

Dates: July 19-23. Location: Camp Myrtlewood, 45 miles west of Highway I-5 on Highway 42. Theme: “ ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, a Life of Service.” Accommodations: Heated cabins, showers, limited tent and RV space; meals provided in central dining area. Classrooms: Two indoor classrooms, one patio area and three outdoor locations with seating. Recreation: Hiking, swimming, outdoor group sports area. Rates: Family, $156; adult, $44; youth/junior youth (9-20 years), $39; children (2-8), $23. Pre-registration: June 15. Registrar: Star Stone, Roseburg, OR 97470 (phone 503-673-3737).

SHELTERING BRANCH (WASHINGTON)

Dates: July 20-26. Location: Camp Wooten, Pomeroy, WA. Theme: “‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Trip to America.” Accommodations: State-run school; cabins. Classrooms: Classes for children, youth and adults. Recreation: Swimming, tennis, archery, square dancing. Registrar: Gary McConnell, Kennewick, WA 99336 (phone 509-582-4273).

SOUTH CAROLINA

Dates: June 18-21. Location: Louis G. Gregory Bahá’í Institute. Theme: “From the Creative Word to Creative Action.” Registrar: Roy Jones (phone 803-558-5093 daytime); Jacquelyn Jones (phone 803-571-2912 evenings).

SOUTH DAKOTA

Dates: For information, call the registrar. Registrar: Julie Hartin (phone 605-341-0306) or Bob Haugen (phone 605-342-3562).

TENNESSEE

Dates: September 4-7 (Labor Day weekend). Location: Cumberland Gap, Crossville, TN. Theme: To be announced. Accommodations: Dormitory rooms and camping, plus hotel rooms nearby; meals available at the campsite. Classrooms: Various sizes available, indoors and outdoors. Recreation: Swimming, soccer, volleyball, etc. Rates: Approximately $10/person/night. Pre-registration: August 15. Registrar: Keyhan Strain, Hixson, TN 37343 (phone 615-842-0514).

TEXAS

Dates: For information, contact the registrar. Registrar: Sharam Rohani, 3716 Royal Valley, Grand Prairie, TX 75050 (phone 214-642-8923).

UTAH

Dates: May 29-31 and October 23-25. Location: Trefoil Ranch, Provo Canyon, UT. Theme: Three classes: “The Rhythm of Growth,” “Love and Estrangement in the Bahá’í Faith,” and “Study on Happiness.” Accommodations: Dormitory, limited family rooms available. Classrooms: Classes for children, adults and youth. Recreation: Hiking. Rates: Adults, $30; children (5-12 years), $20; children under 5, free; family, $120. Registrar: Caryl Davidson, Fruit Heights, UT 84037 (phone 801-544-5981).

WASHINGTON WEST (SEABECK)

Dates: August 9-14. Location: Seabeck Christian Conference Center, on Hood Canal in Seabeck, WA. Theme: “Offering the Bahá’í Community as a Model—Part II.” Accommodations: Motel-style rooms to live-in houses. The campus is an old lumber town that was deserted when the mill burned; family style meals in a large dining hall. Classrooms: Nursery, pre-school, kindergarten, grades 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, junior youth, youth and adults. Recreation: Volleyball, tennis, horseshoes, boating, swimming, trail walks and hiking. Rates: (options high and low)—adults, $140 high, $120 low; youth, $130 high, $110 low; junior youth, $90 high, $77 low; children, $72 high, $61 low; infants under 3 years, free. Pre-registration: By July 25; $5 late fee. Registrar: Harry A. Taylor, Arlington, WA 98223 (phone 206-435-8245).

WISCONSIN

Dates: July 20-24. Location: Camp Byron, Brownsville, WI. Theme: “On the Threshold” (looking at issues in the Six Year Plan). Accommodations: Cabins, dorms, tents. Classrooms: Classes for children, youth and adults. Recreation: Swimming, hiking. Rates: Adult (12 years and older), $105; junior youth (under 12), $45; infants (under 1 year), free. Pre-registration: As soon as possible. Registrar: Roy DuVall, Mukwonago, WI 53149 (phone 414-363-8231). [Page 20]Renowned jazz trumpeter John Birks (Dizzy) Gillespie solos during an appearance February 7 with Chicago’s Jazz Members Big band as a part of the New Trier High School jazz festival in Winnetka, Illinois, about two miles from the Bahá’í House of Worship. Mr. Gillespie, a long-time Bahá’í, delighted the sold-out concert with a smooth blend of modern music and down-to-earth humor.

From the House of Worship

Positive responses are beginning to come in from Bahá’í youth who want to devote their summer to serving as guides and teachers at the House of Worship. Our plan is to have up to 50 youth during June, July and August who will serve five hours a day, four days a week. This will enable us to have 10 youth on each shift each day.

With this schedule, there will be time for the youth to either work on other projects, hold part-time jobs, deepen in the Faith, or simply relax a lot. It is expected that each one will be self-supporting or supported by their parents or community, although we do have some help for a few. If you can’t come for the entire summer, come for at least a couple of weeks. We’ll welcome you to the project.

For information, write to the Bahá’í House of Worship, Wilmette, IL 60091.

The redecoration of the House of Worship’s visitors’ center has begun in earnest with the first phase to be completed by National Convention time this month. This includes a “ceiling effect” that is obtained by painting everything above the 9 1/2-foot level black and dramatically changing the lighting.

The Activities offices have been moved from behind the glassed-in area to an area adjacent to the long entry hall that was being used for storage. The vacated office and reading room will become the new home for the bookstore and reading area. The long entry hall will be quite different and will pictorially convey the “Oneness of the Human Family” as a suitable introduction to the visitors’ center.

The second phase of the remodeling will proceed as funds permit. The wall displays will continue around the outside walls of Foundation Hall and across to a large bay which in recent years has been walled off and not used. The displays will continue the theme of the oneness of mankind, then the oneness of religion, the social implications including world peace, the principles of the Faith with supporting details from the Writings, and end with the Central Figures of the Faith from Whom all of the foregoing derives.

As visitors follow this sequence they will complete their tour at the bookstore and reading area which will be designed to encourage them to linger and read or converse with a guide.

Following this brief introduction to the Faith, it will be suggested that they continue their visit upstairs where they can meditate, ponder, or pray about what they have just learned. It is hoped that this sequence will result in a more coherent and meaningful experience, especially for the first-time visitor.

To speed completion of this second phase, it is permissible for you to make earmarked contributions to: The Bahá’í House of Worship Redecoration.

Are you one of those Bahá’ís who was attracted to the Faith primarily by the House of Worship? There are many of you, and the House of Worship staff would like each of you to send a brief (2-3 page) write-up of your particular experience as to how it happened and what feelings it produced in you. Our intention is to collect and edit these stories and compile them in a book or booklet for distribution to the Bahá’í community and the general public. Send your write-ups directly to us at the House of Worship, Wilmette, IL 60091.

The bookstore at the House of Worship has been, and still is at this time, operated by the Bahá’í Publishing Trust. At Convention time, or shortly thereafter, it will be operated by the House of Worship staff. It will be more accessible to visitors and, in fact, will be an important part of the over-all display of information. We plan to emphasize the many languages in which the Bahá’í literature is printed, both to show the global spread of the Faith and to encourage non-English reading visitors (and we have many) to make a deeper contact with the Faith.

The position of bookstore manager is now open. Experience in managing a bookstore or other comparable retail business, with an understanding of accounting procedures, is important, as is knowledge of the Bahá’í literature and an interest in and ability to interact favorably with our visitors.

If you’d like to apply for the position, contact the House of Worship or the Department of Human Resources at the Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312-869-9039).

A task force composed of the secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly and several senior staff members at the Bahá’í National Center have been holding a series of meetings to consult on the appropriate use of the House of Worship and Foundation Hall for the general public and the American Bahá’í community, and it is expected that the result of their deliberations will be a clearer understanding of the significance and proper use of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár.

“Freedom from racial prejudice, in any of its forms, should, at such a time when an increasingly large section of the human race is falling a victim to its devastating ferocity, be adopted as the watchword of the entire body of the American believers ...”—Shoghi Effendi, The Advent of Divine Justice, p. 30

WLGI updating its resource file of broadcasters

WLGI-Radio Bahá’í in Hemingway, South Carolina, is updating its resource file of Bahá’ís who have experience in broadcasting.

According to Kurt Hein, general manager of WLGI, the station is interested in knowing about Bahá’ís with radio experience and those who are studying broadcasting.

“As we develop special projects,” says Dr. Hein, “we’d like to be able to call on friends from around the country to help us.

“In addition, if any job openings should come up, we’d like to know who some of the ‎Bahá’í's Bahá’ís‎ are on whom we might be able to call.”

The station is also hoping, he says, “to compile a better file of Bahá’ís who are experienced producers, writers, programmers, administrators or technicians. We’d also like to hear from people who are studying broadcasting, especially radio.”

Dr. Hein says that people need not submit samples of their work, but he would like for them to include a summary of their Bahá’í activities and experience.

Because WLGI’s primary audience consists of blacks in rural South Carolina, the station is especially interested in receiving information from black Bahá’ís and from Bahá’ís who are from the South or who have lived there.

Those who are interested may write to Dr. Hein at WLGI Radio, Hemingway, SC 29554, or call him at the station: 803-558-9544.

Announcer/programmer Shirlene Brown hosts a program from the studio at WLGI-Radio Bahá’í in Hemingway, South Carolina.

Retired teacher sets example of sacrifice as guide at Temple

Is retirement time approaching? You say you’re wondering where you can pioneer to serve the Faith you love so much?

Consider guiding at the House of Worship as a worthy choice. Until we have a nucleus of 10 to 15 regular guides, supported by our many volunteers who come occasionally, it isn’t likely that we will be able to do a truly appropriate job of interacting with the increasing number of visitors who are attracted to the “silent teacher.”

A wonderful example of someone who has done this is Kay Walker, for whom this project is named.

Kay moved to the Wilmette area 26 years ago after retiring as a school teacher in New England for the specific purpose of guiding at the House of Worship.

She is now 92 years young and still guides two days each week, coming on a bus by herself. She is a vigorous, competent and inspiring representative of the Faith to our visitors.

If there’s any possibility that you can come, let us hear from you. Write to the Bahá’í House of Worship, Wilmette, IL 60091.

Can you identify anyone in this picture?

This photograph may have been taken in Chicago in the early 1900s. If you can identify anyone in the picture, please write to the National Bahá’í Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. [Page 21]

Global education group to hold 13th conference

Global Education Associates will present its 13th annual summer institute June 30-July 9 at the National College of Education in Evanston, Illinois.

The program is for educators to examine the crucial choices facing the world community.

Part 1, “The Global View,” is to feature a variety of speakers who will present thought-provoking perspectives on a range of critical global issues.

Part 2 includes three-day “short courses” for greater depth in such selected fields as the Middle East, Russian history and culture, women in the global future, global citizenship and world order, the problem of terrorism, and global resource utilization.

Graduate credits can be earned for institute participation through the School of Education at the National College.

For more information, or to register for the institute, write to Marijon Binder, Global Concerns Center, Chicago, IL 60625, or phone 312-728-6336.

The registration fee for Part 1 and for each of the short courses is $125. Registration deadline is May 15. Accommodations are available (single, $18/night; double, $12/night).

Make checks payable to Global Concerns Center.

For information about graduate credit, write to Robert Shuford, Center for International Cooperation, National College of Education, Evanston, IL 60201.

Auction raises $580+ for Fund in Murfreesboro

On February 8, the Bahá’ís of Murfreesboro City and Rutherford County, Tennessee, raised more than $580 for the National Bahá’í Fund in less than two hours at an auction held in the “Spirit of the Roses.”

One of those who participated writes: “The friends brought whatever they had to donate no matter how simple, and the bidding was done amidst lots of fun and laughter. There seemed to be a special feeling of love and unity in the room.

“The real spirit of the auction, for me, was in seeing one family lovingly buying items for a less fortunate refugee family. Even the simple lunch of sandwiches, fruit and drinks, which was prepared and sold by the youth of both communities, tasted extra delicious.”

Laying of cornerstone to be marked

The observance of the 75th anniversary of the laying of the cornerstone of the Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette will be held May 1-2.

The 12th Day of Riḍván will be celebrated Friday evening, May 1, at 8 p.m. in the auditorium at the House of Worship. The following morning, a worship service will be held at 10:30 in the auditorium.

At 1:30 that afternoon, a program will detail the events which took place there 75 years ago.

The cornerstone room will be open to those in attendance. The House of Worship will have displays on view of photographs and mementos of the occasion.

For more information, call the House of Worship Activities Office, 312-256-4400 or 312-869-9039.

Chattanooga Bahá’ís cosponsor conference on ‘Power of Unity’

Inspired by the success of the Peace Conference in San Francisco and the extent to which it demonstrated a collaboration between the Bahá’í and non-Bahá’í communities, the Bahá’ís of metropolitan Chattanooga, Tennessee, are sponsoring a conference on racial harmony May 15-17 whose theme is “The Power of Unity: Beyond Prejudice and Racism.”

The three-day event will open with a seminar on black and white culture and communication by the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga’s Department of Continuing Education.

The seminar, which will offer continuing education credits, will feature Dr. Thomas Kochman of the University of Illinois-Chicago, a nationally recognized expert in black language and culture and in cross-cultural communication.

On Saturday, the conference will feature talks by Bahá’í speakers Dr. Wilma Brady, Jack Guillebeaux, and members of the National Race Unity Committee as well as by local Chattanoogans concerned with race relations.

A full program for children and youth will focus on the appreciation of cultural and racial diversity.

On Saturday evening, a multi-ethnic festival of the performing arts will be held.

Sunday conference sessions will provide an opportunity for a dialogue with the National Race Unity Committee, Counselors and Auxiliary Board members.

Of great import to Chattanooga Bahá’ís is the extent to which non-Bahá’í Chattanoogans have committed themselves to the support of the conference.

So far, it is being sponsored by the Bahá’ís, the Clergy Association, the local chapter of Clergy and Laity Concerned, and several departments at the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga including the departments of Social Work and Sociology.

The planning committee has received input from many non-Bahá’í Chattanoogans who are committed to the ideals of the conference.

All registrations are being handled by the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga’s Department of Continuing Education. Materials can be obtained by writing to that office, Chattanooga, TN 37402, and specifying the Kochman seminar, the race unity conference, or both.

The National Race Unity Committee suggests that the theme for 1987 Race Unity Day events be ‘The Power of Unity: Beyond Prejudice and Racism.’

Archives seeks state, district lists

The National Bahá’í Archives is seeking state and district voting lists used in State and District Conventions, 1952-67, for Arizona, Texas, Florida, Massachusetts, Minnesota and Washington state.

Anyone having such lists that they could donate is asked to send them to the National Bahá’í Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

Publications available in Persian and English

The National Persian/American Affairs Committee would like to announce the availability of several of its publications in Persian and English:

PERSIAN

Tablets of the Divine Plan ($1.80). This is the original Persian text of the Tablets of the Divine Plan by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, entitled Faramin-i-Tablighi in Persian. This edition contains an extensive introduction by Dr. Mahmoud Majdhub elaborating the historical background of these Tablets.

The Advent of Divine Justice ($4.25). The Persian translation of the Guardian’s Advent of Divine Justice has been corrected and reprinted in a new edition. Its Persian title is Zuhur-i-‘Adl-i-Ilahi.

The Bahá’í Life ($1.50). This is a collection of excerpts from the writings of the Guardian on the theme of living the Bahá’í life, compiled by the Universal House of Justice. The Persian edition is entitled Hayat-i-Bahá’í and contains a few letters in the original Persian as well as translations of letters that were written in English.

The Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ($2). This booklet, Alvah-i-Vasaya-yi-Mubarakih, has been reprinted and is again available.

Learning Arabic ($30). This is a self-study program written in Persian by Amrollah Hemmat and Bijan Samali. It includes two volumes of instruction in the Arabic language and six audio cassettes. It is designed to help Persian Bahá’ís learn to read the Arabic writings of the Faith in the original language.

Bahar ($4). This children’s educational packet is designed to help English-speaking youngsters learn some Persian words and their English equivalents. It comes with a booklet and tape.

ENGLISH

Iranian Refugees in America: A Cross-Cultural Perspective. This handbook outlines the general cultural characteristics of Iranians. It is designed for refugee agencies, sponsors and Bahá’í communities working with Iranians. It attempts to point out the areas in which misunderstandings are most likely to occur, and how they can be avoided. It is available for $1.

“For a Drop of the Lover’s Blood” (video tape). This tape, produced by the Persian/American Affairs Committee and directed by Claire Menking and Manouch Kazemzadeh, was conceived as an integration tool and a catalyst for discussion about cross-cultural unity in the Bahá’í community. It has been used throughout the English-speaking world, runs for one hour, should be shown to small mixed groups of about 20 people, presented by an experienced facilitator with adequate preparation (guidelines are included), and must be followed by a discussion period of no less than an hour. Cost is $45 plus postage (available in VHS, Beta and PAL).

Memorial service honors Mr. Wolcott in Flint, Michigan, where he was born

A tribute to Charles F. Wolcott, a member of the Universal House of Justice, who died January 26 at his home in Haifa, Israel, was held February 26 in Flint, Michigan, Mr. Wolcott’s home town.

Forty-five people attended the service at the Flint Institute of Music, one block from Mr. Wolcott’s former high school and from the former site of the junior college he attended before transferring to the University of Michigan.

The program began and ended with music by mezzo contralto Candace De Lattre: Abandon Not, a cantata based on The Hidden Words of Bahá’u’lláh, and From the Sweet-Scented Streams, the prayer by Bahá’u’lláh set to music by Mr. Wolcott.

In between, there were prayers; readings from the Bahá’í writings by Randall Kizer; a biographical sketch of Mr. Wolcott narrated by John Nash; and a portrait of Mr. Wolcott’s later years in Haifa by George Frye, a Bahá’í who worked at the World Centre for several years and was Mr. Wolcott’s weekly golfing partner.

Mr. Frye spoke of Mr. Wolcott’s joy in serving on the House of Justice, recounting how eagerly Mr. Wolcott looked forward to its meetings, always being the first one to arrive in the chambers.

The tribute was sponsored and planned by the Spiritual Assembly of Flint.

Bahá’ís set camp-out

The Bahá’ís of Rockford, Illinois, are sponsoring their annual camp-out for children and youth August 14-16 at the White Eagle 4-H Camp in Leaf River.

Ages are from kindergarten through high school with separate activities for each age group. Fees are $20 per child or adult ($10 for adult staff).

To pre-register, contact Dick Rundall, Rockford, IL 61102, or phone 815-968-7725.

new from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust

A reprint of the popular and comprehensive introduction to the Bahá’í Faith, featuring

• new design
• updated statistics and facts about the Bahá’í community
• some new translations of passages from the writings
• new reference list

BAHÁ’U’LLÁH AND THE NEW ERA

softcover $3.50

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 22]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

THE DEPARTMENT OF Human Resources at the Bahá’í National Center has an immediate need for a highly motivated, qualified individual to serve as an administrative consultant in the Office of Community Administration, which functions within the Office of the Secretary and is responsible for guiding and assisting Bahá’í institutions and agencies, groups and individuals with matters pertaining to the application of Bahá’í laws and principles. An administrative assistant responds to letters and phone calls from his assigned geographical area and prepares background data on personal status cases. Qualifications include a sharp and discriminating mind, an eye for detail, an ability to organize one’s work efficiently, and to turn over a high volume of work on a timely basis. The position requires excellent writing skills, sound judgment, a strong understanding of the principle of confidentiality, a compassionate personality, psychological stability, a deep knowledge of the Bahá’í Teachings, and the ability to apply Bahá’í principles to individual cases. Several years’ experience in local Bahá’í administration would be helpful, as would typing ability on a word processor or computer. To obtain an application, please contact Karen Crenshaw, Department of Human Resources, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

A FUND education coordinator is being sought by the Office of the Treasurer in Wilmette to help administer a nationwide program designed to strengthen the institution of the Fund by overseeing the National Treasurer’s Representative program and by responding to inquiries about the Fund from the field. Requires a liberal arts background with strong written and oral communication skills. The position also requires familiarity with the Bahá’í writings and an ability to relate them to the world around us. Other skills include flexibility, a sense of humor, and self-motivation. For more information or an application, contact Karen Crenshaw, Department of Human Resources, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone her at 312-869-9039.

THE GREEN ACRE Bahá’í School is seeking a full-time educational coordinator responsible for the planning, preparation and coordination of educational programming and related activities at the school. Requirements include a background in education with experience in both the public sector and in the Bahá’í community. A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in education or a closely related field is desired. Should be enthusiastic, creative and highly organized with excellent written and oral communication skills. This is an excellent opportunity for an educator with the desire to use his professional skills to serve the Faith. For more information or an application, please contact the Department of Human Resources, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

QUALIFIED individuals are being sought to fill vacancies at the National Teaching Committee office: Minority Development Coordinator—responsible for stimulating and developing projects related to minority teaching projects and issues. Experience working with minority groups is essential, with written and oral fluency in Spanish highly desired. College degree is preferred; some typing skills and a willingness to learn computer skills are required. Regional Development Coordinator—motivates and inspires District Teaching Committees to set and fulfill goals; initiates and responds to inquiries from the field; helps coordinate and place traveling teachers and homefront pioneers; helps with conference planning; and maintains files for local Assemblies, DTCs and Groups. A solid knowledge of Bahá’í administration is necessary together with Assembly and/or DTC experience. Good writing ability, a pleasant and courteous phone manner, and strong organizational and clerical skills are required; IBM computer experience would be very helpful. Secretary—handles and processes a high volume of detailed work, works with staff at all levels, interacts with the public. Several years of strong secretarial and administrative work is required including excellent typing, word processing, oral and written communication skills. Flexibility is essential. For more information or an application, please contact the Department of Human Resources, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312-869-9039).

FROM July 1987, a vacancy will exist for a Bahá’í couple to serve in the gardens at the House of Worship in Sydney, Australia. Free accommodations are provided in the form of a small cottage on the grounds. Financially independent couples are preferred, but for those in need of support, some contribution toward living expenses may be arranged. If you’ve been thinking about serving the Faith in Sydney, this could be the ideal position—lots of teaching can be done at the Temple every day. For more information, please write to the Bahá’í Temple Property Management Committee, P.O. Box 224, Terrey Hills 2084, Australia.

URGENT need for Bahá’í physicians specializing in orthopedic surgery and ear, nose and throat. First year’s salary guaranteed. Pediatricians and radiologists also needed. Contact Dr. Kamrooz Sanii, 716-373-6000.

ATTENTION! software and hardware engineers. Let NEBnet (the New England Bahá’í Network) help you. We need active Bahá’ís from all over the U.S. to come and set New England on fire. Many companies will pay for your relocation to the area if you are qualified. Want more? There are five Bahá’ís who are willing to circulate your résumé to managers all over the area. So what’s the catch? Simply that if you get the job you then get to live in a town that needs you—in New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Vermont, Connecticut, Maine, Rhode Island, etc. We need more people in Hudson, Salem and Merrimack, New Hampshire; Marlborough, Massachusetts, and other cities. If you have a BSEE or BSCS or equivalent, and/or are a recent college graduate, send your résumé to the Spiritual Assembly of Hudson, c/o Sohail Sobhani, 9 Deer Run Road, Hudson, NY 103051. P.S.—You don’t have to be an engineer to move to this area. We’d love to have all sorts of people come to New England.

THE NATIONAL Spiritual Assembly’s Office of External Affairs, which is responsible for contact with the U.S. government, national media and organizations, and prominent individuals, is seeking an administrative assistant for its office in Wilmette. The administrative assistant handles phone inquiries, opens and sorts mail, types correspondence, maintains public information network mailing lists, processes orders for a/v and special materials, and analyzes news clippings. Requires a flexible person with previous experience in a fast-paced office environment, good organizational skills, typing of at least 50-60 wpm, and a pleasant telephone manner. Word processing experience is desirable. For more information and an application, please contact the Office of Human Resources, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

HEAD resident is sought for the Louhelen Residential College. The position entails serving as academic and personal counselor to 13 or more students, helping students plan devotional, recreational and social activities, coordinating transportation and service projects. The resident would live on campus and receive room, board and a stipend. A complete job description and application can be obtained from the Louhelen Bahá’í School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423.

THE BOSCH Bahá’í School is accepting applications for summer positions including children’s teachers (two positions), recreation director, book sales, lifeguard, dishwasher/snack bar (two positions), assistant cook, and maintenance helpers (two positions). Most positions require on-campus housing; room and board are provided with a small ‎stipead stipend‎. Applicants should be able to serve from mid-June through August 27. Those who are interested should send a brief résumé listing position desired and relevant experience to: Administrator, Bosch Bahá’í School, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060.

CLEAR LAKE (California) Physical Therapy Inc. is looking for an industrious physical therapist/physical therapist assistant for immediate full-time employment. We provide care for outpatient, convalescent hospital, and home health setting, along with offering fitness counseling. Competitive salary with pension/profit sharing benefits. Lake County, on California’s largest natural lake, is a growing rural community in lovely northern California, 125 miles north of San Francisco and 70 miles from the Pacific Coast. The Spiritual Assembly of Lakeport needs two Bahá’ís to maintain its Assembly status. Please phone Rick Green, R.P.T., 707-263-1295 (collect) or send résumé to Lakeport, CA 95453.

BAHÁ’Í-owned real estate sales and marketing company in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, seeks strong, competent real estate professionals or others with strong sales backgrounds to sell resort real estate and help establish active Bahá’í communities in South Carolina as called for by the Universal House of Justice and the National Spiritual Assembly. Income is commission-based; the sky’s the limit. Send résumés to David Hoffman, president, the Hoffman Group, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577, or phone (evenings) 803-272-7111.

THE SPIRITUAL Assembly of Chicago is seeking an administrative assistant to work at the Chicago Bahá’í Center. This is a part-time (20 hours per week) paid position. Duties include greeting the public, coordinating community activities, handling telephone calls, and general secretarial duties including composing letters, etc. Those who are interested in the position should contact the Assembly secretary, Irene Freeburg, Chicago, IL 60616, or phone 312-225-1919.

GREEN Acre Bahá’í School is accepting applications for summer program help. Positions that need to be filled include program director, recreational director, teachers for children and youth, cook and kitchen helpers, librarian, registrar, nursery, housekeeping, and maintenance help. Applicants should be at least 18 years old, available from July 1 through August 31 or the entire month of either July or August, and have a mature attitude and a desire to be of service. Compensation includes room, board and a weekly allowance based on skills required and job responsibilities. To apply, phone 207-439-0019 or write to the director of operations, Green Acre Bahá’í School, P.O. Box 17, Eliot, ME 03903.

THE HUMAN Performance Center(s) is seeking innovative health professionals for immediate employment. We are presently looking for an exercise physiologist and fitness instructor. The physiologist should have a master’s degree although we will consider a bachelor’s with experience in exercise testing/fitness assessment; must have experience or desire to learn management responsibilities. The fitness instructor should have had college course work in anatomy/physiology or practical experience in exercise training/fitness counseling; must be service-oriented with a desire to learn. Lake County is a growing rural area in lovely northern California, about 125 miles north of San Francisco. Phone Rick Green, R.P.T., 707-263-1295 (collect) or send résumé to Lakeport, CA 95453.

PIONEERING (OVERSEAS)

MECHANIC and head mechanic are needed in Honduras. The mechanic’s responsibilities include maintenance and repair of industrial sewing machines, electrical equipment, and air compressors. The head mechanic must be a specialist in wheel alignment and motor suspension. Both positions require a B.S. or technical degree with 2-4 years’ experience and fluency in Spanish. For more details, contact the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

HONDURAS needs a plant and production manager to work with quality control to help reach the objectives required by general management. Requires an M.S. degree with at least two years’ experience or a B.S. with three years’ experience in the textile industry. Fluent Spanish is also required. If interested, contact the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312-869-9039).

THE PHILIPPINES is looking for a health professional to serve as a medical training resource for Filipino groups engaged in primary health care. Duties would also include continuing exploration of health, women’s and development groups. Requirements are practical experience in health training, primary health care, program development, and community organizing. For more details, write to the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

CISKEI, an independent homeland within the Republic of South Africa, is appealing for international pioneers. The main source of employment is through the University of Fort Hare or the Ciskei government. Those most in demand are university professors in agriculture, animal and soil sciences, botany, zoology, African studies, classical languages, English, fine arts, computer science, chemistry, health sciences, and mathematics. Also, the Ciskei government has 17 departments that require professionals in all fields such as doctors, dentists, and high school teachers of math, science and English. Retired persons with an independent income would find it easy to live in Ciskei. The most luxurious hotel costs only $25 per night, and housing in rural areas is about $2 per night. For more information, please contact the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

UNIVERSITY professors are needed in Nigeria in the following departments: biology, botany, biochemistry, chemistry, geology, applied geophysics, mathematics, microbiology, mineral science and technology, physics, statistics, and zoology. Applicants must have advanced degrees and university teaching and research experience. Applications regarding sabbatical leave are welcome. For more information, contact the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312-869-9039).

LIBERIA needs a technical manager for a 28,000-acre self-sustaining rubber plantation. Responsibilities include all maintenance and repair of electrical, steam and mechanical equipment. Electrical area includes diesel power generation, motor starters and electrical controls; mechanical area includes heavy trucks, tractors, pick-ups and autos. Applicants should have “hands-on” technical maintenance and staff management experience. For more information, contact the [Page 23]International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

POSITIONS for teachers of English are available next fall in Finland. The openings are with a university, a teacher training college, and a kindergarten. The only requirements are a university degree in some subject and fluency in English. For more details, contact the International Goals Committee, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

PIONEERING (HOMEFRONT)

HOMEFRONT pioneers: the jeopardized assembly of Fayetteville invites you to relocate in the scenic Ozark mountains of northwestern Arkansas. There are presently eight adult Bahá’ís in Fayetteville and eight more in surrounding Washington County. We are an active Bahá’í community in a pleasant university town. For more information, contact the Spiritual Assembly of Fayetteville, c/o Bryan Stover, secretary, Fayetteville, AR 72701 (phone 501-442-0583 after 6 p.m.).

HOMEFRONT pioneers: Elizabethtown and Radnor Township, Pennsylvania, may lose their Assemblies at Riḍván unless homefront pioneers can help save them. Elizabethtown is a college town 20-30 minutes from either Harrisburg or Lancaster. Lancaster County has the lowest unemployment rate in Pennsylvania, and the active Bahá’í community sponsors Sunday morning classes for more than 50 Bahá’í children and adults. Radnor Township, a suburban township with a well-deepened Bahá’í community, offers four area colleges and access to Philadelphia, King of Prussia, and Great Valley for employment. Rail commuter service to Philadelphia takes about one-half hour. For more information about homefront pioneering in eastern Pennsylvania, contact Saadat or Karen Rouhani, Pottstown, PA 19464, or phone 215-327-4159.

THE BAHÁ’Í community of Olean, New York, needs two more Bahá’ís by Riḍván. Olean, a city of 20,000 with many of the conveniences of a larger city including cultural events, a university, sports, good schools and shopping, is only five minutes from breathtaking mountain scenery and country roads. Also has the lowest-priced good housing anywhere. Job opportunities for nurses, teachers, business and secretarial, and university professors. And service industry jobs are always available. For more information, contact Brenda Snyder, correspondent, Olean, NY 14760.

RALEIGH County, West Virginia, needs at least three Bahá’ís to maintain its Assembly status, as illness and old age have taken their toll on membership. We are an active Assembly, and teaching the Faith in this part of Appalachia is a real challenge. Jobs are hard to come by, but the people in this economically depressed area are wonderful. Beckley, the county seat, has good medical facilities and a community college, and there is a ski resort nearby. Summers are cool and pleasant with clear, clean mountain air every day of the year. For more information about wild, wonderful southern West Virginia, please write to Leo Misagi, Daniels, WV 25832, or phone Frank and Trish Doonan, 304-763-4191.

HOMEFRONT pioneers are needed to help save a jeopardized Assembly in Gorham, Maine, 10 miles west of Portland and one hour north of the Green Acre Bahá’í School. Gorham, a charming New England village in a quiet, rural setting, has educational and employment opportunities at the University of Southern Maine with campuses in Gorham and Portland. Easy access to the cultural activities and job opportunities of Portland make this “the best of both worlds.” A Greater Portland area teaching campaign is planned for June. If you would like more information, please contact the Spiritual Assembly of Gorham, P.O. Box 265, Gorham, ME 04038, or phone 207-839-3484.

BAHÁ’ÍS are needed in the Augusta (Richmond County), Georgia, area, where a job is now available for a hygienist in a local Bahá’í dentist’s office. The cost of living here is average, housing is excellent, and the weather is beautiful; a perfect area for a young, growing family to raise children. The area boasts eight hospitals, two colleges, a medical school, and a number of active Bahá’í families. If you are interested in moving, please contact Patricia Steele, Augusta, GA 30909.

HOMEFRONT pioneers are needed to help save the Spiritual Assembly of Española, New Mexico, a tri-cultural area 45 miles south of Taos and 25 miles north of Santa Fe, surrounded by mountains and Indian pueblos. Living costs are reasonable, but jobs are relatively scarce unless one is well-trained in a marketable area or has a service or business he can open here. There are three community colleges in the area for anyone who is interested in pursuing a marketable skill. Jobs are best obtained through personal interviews. We can offer some help to those who come to look into the possibility of settling here. For more information, write to P.O. Box 1443, Española, NM 87532, or phone 505-753-6838.

PHELPS County, Missouri, in the wooded Ozark foothills, needs two Bahá’ís to help maintain its Assembly status. The area, about 100 miles west of St. Louis, is primarily rural. Living conditions vary from urban middle class to rugged backwoods primitive, with good hunting and fishing. Job opportunities are limited, but there are a university and hospital in Rolla, the county seat, and a military base in a neighboring county. Minorities would be especially welcome to add diversity to our all-white community. Bahá’í families in the area are eager to help new community members get established. Contact Sandy Palmberg, Rolla, MO 65401, or phone 314-364-0845.

HOMEFRONT pioneers are needed to help strengthen the Spiritual Assembly of Greater Darlington, South Carolina, a goal area near Florence, home of Darlington Technical College and Francis Marion College (both of which have Bahá’í students and faculty). An excellent area for the professional artist or craftsman, with good shows available on the entire east coast. Available for rent is a comfortable three-bedroom, one bath home on a working 800-acre farm on which another Bahá’í couple rents a house. One hour from the Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute; abundant teaching opportunities. For more information, write to Otis and Linda Johnson, Darlington, SC 29532.

LOS LUNAS, a community of about 4,000, is a priority goal of Northern New Mexico. This growing town, largely Hispanic Catholics, is within commuting distance of Albuquerque (30 miles) and offers challenging teaching opportunities. Rental properties are available, and a branch of the University of New Mexico is nearby. A small Bahá’í Group is unable to support pioneers but can offer hospitality for a short time. The need is great. Phone Jeri, 505-865-4379, or Carol (DTC), 505-869-2151.

THE SPIRITUAL Assembly of Augusta, Maine, the state capital and easternmost Assembly in the U.S., invites you to help save it. Augusta is convenient and pleasant, home for state offices, a small university, and banking and electronics firms. Several construction projects are scheduled to begin this spring. Recreational opportunities abound, with nearby coastal areas, lakes, rivers and mountains. Write to Lisa Cheney, secretary, Spiritual Assembly of Augusta, Augusta, ME 04330, or phone her at 207-623-2340, or Claire or Dennis Cline, 207-622-2406.

OPPORTUNITY to help stabilize/save an incorporated local Spiritual Assembly in Iowa City, Iowa, a special place to grow that offers unique benefits for retired people and students, and career opportunities for professionals and non-professionals including special entrepreneurial opportunities for new and expanding businesses. Iowa City is characterized by low unemployment and low crime, as a center for the visual and performing arts, by its outstanding medical facilities, and by having one of the best-educated citizenries in the country. Write to Michael Cavitt, Iowa City, IA 52240, or phone 319-338-9211.

SCHOOLS

DEAR cooks and food lovers: please help us reach our end of May deadline for recipes for our cookbook to help the Green Acre School restoration project. We need at least 150 more recipes (hopefully 200 to 300 more) to go to press! Our article (October ’86) inspired a number of the friends to help us out. One wonderful woman in upstate New York sent 15 delightful, healthful recipes; another woman from California sent 12. We’re happy that our senders have included a number of men. We even received a recipe from a pioneer to Nigeria, and were sent several more anecdotes about Green Acre as well. The recipes range from Mom’s Butter-milk Biscuits to Mango Sherbet, from Randy’s Camp-Out Beans to Chiciwannahoona. Please send your recipes before you forget! Put aside this issue of The American Bahá’í, gather your favorite recipes, and send them off in tomorrow’s mail to: Green Acre Cooks, P.O. Box 8289, New Haven, CT 06512. Please, please help us fulfill this opportunity for preserving and restoring our beloved Green Acre. Beth Hinshaw (203-746-4314) and Riva Adriance (203-746-5552).

THE LOUHELEN Residential College is accepting applications for fall 1987. Needed are a minimum of 13 students to enroll in this program which will combine formal study of the Faith with degree-earning studies at the University of Michigan-Flint or Mott Community College. For information and application materials, write to the Louhelen Bahá’í School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423.

THE UNITED Nations University for Peace in Escazu, Costa Rica, is sponsoring a course entitled “Family Life Education for Peace” from June 29-July 10. This is the first course in family life education offered by the university and will examine research findings, theories, methods and materials on marriage, parenting, and education for peace. The course is designed for students, parents, family science professionals and all interested persons who want to help families develop individual peace-promoting qualities and skills. The University for Peace is an exciting new development on the world stage through which Bahá’ís may come in contact with some of the world’s finest contributors to building a peaceful world. For more information and application materials, contact Dr. John Woodall, Long Beach, CA 90802.

A BAHÁ’Í Wilderness Camp for pre-youth ages 10-13, sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Beloit, Wisconsin, and developed by experienced camp professionals, will be held August 1-9 in northern Wisconsin. A week of outdoor living with young people your own age combined with the leadership of a Bahá’í counselor will provide growing experiences for all. To ensure a “family” Bahá’í environment, the camp is limited to 30 campers. For a brochure and parent information packet, please contact the Spiritual Assembly of Beloit, P.O. Box 1278, Beloit, WI 53511, or the camp director, James Lewicki, LaCrosse, WI 54401 (phone 608-788-7258).

YOUTH

AMBITIOUS youth are needed to help form a Bahá’í Club at St. John’s College in Annapolis, Maryland. One Bahá’í is presently attending this unique liberal arts college, which has experienced recent teaching activity resulting in seven declarations in two years. Only one more dedicated worker to establish a club and reap new harvests. St. John’s offers a small, intellectually curious, and intimate environment in which students study math, science, philosophy and the humanities through reading and discussing the “great books” of western civilization. Although accredited and highly respected, the program is not the usual college fare. Those who would like more information should contact Jeremy Lauer, a Bahá’í graduate of St. John’s who now works in the Admissions Office, at P.O. Box 2189, Annapolis, MD 21404, for a full and candid description of the school’s academic and spiritual environment.

WANTED

THE BAHÁ’Í Esperanto League is trying to put together an archive of older or unusual Bahá’í materials in Esperanto. We are also interested in Persian language materials for studying Esperanto, or in developing such materials. Anyone who has potential archival materials or who would like to help in the creation of Persian-Esperanto learning materials is asked to contact John Dale, P.O. Box 4262, Hyattsville, MD 20787.

WANTED: Original Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to the following individuals with approximate date of Tablet: Alwyn J. Baker, Berkeley, CA (1920), Gloria Paula Baker, Seattle, WA (1920), Viola Ingram-Silver, Pleasantville, NJ (1921), Myrtle E. Teshey, Glendale, CA (1911), Carol Leona Woolson, St. Paul, MN (1911), Laura F. Preston, Fernandina, FL (1911), and Florence A. Cobb, Cortland, NY (1911). Anyone having information about the possible location of any of these Tablets is asked to write to the National Bahá’í Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

SCREENPLAY is needed by a graduate film student for his thesis project. I am studying in the film/video directing program at the California Institute of the Arts. If you have any screenplays pertaining to the Bahá’í Faith or screenplays relating to Bahá’í history I would like to look at them. May be fact or fiction, as long as they represent the Faith accurately. If you have only written ideas, please include them with a letter. Please mail a copy of your script to Naeim Ghalili, Valencia, CA 91355 (phone 805-254-4014).

QUILTERS who think they would like to take part (by mail) in the making of a “Spirit of the Roses” quilt, please contact me and I will send you more information. Laurie Early, P.O. Box 340, New York, NY 10009.

THE BAHÁ’Í National Center in Yap, Western Caroline Islands, could use a VHS video tape recorder and a TV for teaching and consolidation. Also, the National Spiritual Assembly of the Western Caroline Islands needs a computer that can run data base word processing and spreadsheet programs: ‎PBase 111 dBASE III‎ plus/Word Processing/Lotus 1-2-3 12A version. Bahá’ís who may be interested in selling or donating any of these items are asked to write to the National Spiritual Assembly of the Western Caroline Islands, P.O. Box 448, Colonia, Yap, Western Caroline Islands 96943.

CHILDREN of all ages—we love to see your work in Brilliant Star magazine. Send your poems, pictures and stories to Brilliant Star editor, 5010 Austin Road, Hixson, TN 37343.

ATTENTION all ye lovers of the Light! An exciting teaching project is to be held June 19-July 3 in Portland, the largest city in Maine! The Northern Lights project, dedicated to the martyred Iranian youth, Bijan Talibi, aims to bring the Faith out of obscurity in the Portland area. The goal will be accomplished through direct teaching, the media, firesides, proclamations, the performing arts, open houses, etc. We need people of all ages and backgrounds to help set Portland “aglow with the fire of His love!” For more exciting details, please write to Nor-

See ADS page 29 [Page 24]

Scaling the walls of separation

America is proud of its tradition of welcoming refugees and other immigrants to a new land where all are equal and all enjoy the same opportunities. The poem on the Statue of Liberty calls out to the world: “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses, yearning to be free.”

And yet it is not always so simple or easy as that. The immigrants do not by any means enjoy equal opportunity; they are unfamiliar with the culture and uneasy with the language. They are perceived as different, as not fitting in. Many times they don’t have the skills needed to get ahead in this country.

As a result, two forces pull and push the refugees or new immigrants; on the one hand, they are drawn to people who speak the same language and share the same lifestyle: their fellow countrymen. On the other, the society at large sees them as outsiders and, whether out of prejudice or through problems of miscommunication or misunderstanding, drives them away. Many immigrants, therefore, never become integrated into the mainstream of American society, though their school-age children usually do.

Of course, we in the Bahá’í community do not—or should not—entertain any prejudice toward other cultures, races or ethnic groups. Like anyone else, however, we do have trouble understanding and feeling comfortable with those who are very different from us in their way of doing things or their way of looking at things. And the fact that we do not always know where people of a different background are “coming from” constitutes a barrier between us and them.

But it is not an insurmountable barrier. With a little personal effort, we can scale the walls that keep us apart and, in doing so, broaden our horizons. If we actively seek to understand one another, consciously strive to overcome any preconceived notions we hold, and vigorously endeavor to befriend others who are not like us, we will certainly succeed.

After all, we share a belief in the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh and we have all experienced living within a Bahá’í community. The attractive force of the beliefs we hold in common is strong enough to sweep away whatever stands in our path as we work to unite the human race.

But our Cause is an urgent Cause. We cannot wait for the next generation or the next to become integrated on its own. The Bahá’í community should be leading the world in building integrated and harmonious communities and forging a new world-wide culture.

With the dissemination of “The Promise of World Peace,” the Universal House of Justice has offered the experience of the Bahá’í community to the peoples of the world as a model for study, and we should expect that soon people will begin examining our communities with a critical eye to see if we, indeed, practice what we preach.

Therefore, we should not regard the presence of the Iranian Bahá’ís in America as an accident of history. It is a golden opportunity for us, not only to draw upon a great variety of Bahá’í experience and outlook, but also to integrate our Bahá’í communities more completely and to demonstrate in a concrete fashion the unity of mankind. This objective must be one of paramount importance for the Bahá’í community at this stage in its growth if we are to demonstrate the power of the Faith to transform human society.

Prohibition of Intoxicating Drinks

در کتاب مستطاب اقدس نازل قوله عزّ کبریائه: "لَيْسَ لِلْعَاقِلِ أَنْ يَشْرَبَ مَا يُذْهِبُ بِهِ الْعَقْلُ وَ لَهُ أَنْ يَعْمَلَ مَا يَنْبَغِي لِلاِنْسَانِ لاَ مَا يَرْتَكِبُهُ كُلُّ غَافِلٍ مُرِيبٍ" (آیه ٢٧٤)

و در کلمات مکنونه است قوله جلّ و علا:

"بگو ای پست فطرتان از شراب باقی قدسم چرا به آب فانی رجوع نمودید"

"ای پسر خاک از خمر بی مثال محبوب لایزال چشم مپوش و بخمر کدرهٔ فانیه چشم مگشا"

"ای پسر انسان شبنمی از ژرف دریای رحمت خود بر عالمیان مبذول داشتم و احدی را مقبل نیافتم زیرا که کلّ از خمر باقی لطیف بهاء کثیف نبید (شراب) اقبال نموده‌اند و از کاس جمال باقی بجام فانی قانع شده‌اند بئس ما هُم به يقنعون"

و حضرت عبدالبهاء جلّ ثنائه در لوح استاد علی فخار طهرانی میفرمایند:

"امّا شراب بنصّ کتاب اقدس ‎سريس صریحاً‎ ممنوع زیرا شُربش سبب امراض مزمنه و ضعف اعصاب و زوال عقل است."

Request from Relatives of Martyrs

از یاران ارجمندی که افتخار قرابت با يك يا چند نفر از شهدای اخیر ایران را دارند استدعا میشود ‎سؤالنیه سؤالنامه‎ ذیل را تکمیل و بآدرس دفتر لجنه ارسال فرمائید.

نام و نام خانوادگی شهید: محل سکونت شهید: تاریخ شهادت: محل شهادت: (اگر عکسی و یا نامه‌ای از ایشان دارید متمنی است اصل یا سواد آن را برای تکمیل آرشیو لجنه ضمیمه فرمائید.) نسبت خویشاوندی با شهید فوق الذکر:

اسم و آدرس نویسنده (لطفاً بانگلیسی مرقوم فرمائید):

Name ________________________ City ____________ State ______ Zip ________ Telephone ( )

نشانی لجنه:

National Persian/American Affairs Committee C/O Bahá’í National Center Wilmette, IL 60091

‘ANDALÍB

7350 LESLIE STREET, THORNHILL ONTARIO, CANADA L3T 6L3

آگهی مجلّه عندلیب

با انتشار مجلّه عندلیب شماره ۲۰، سال پنجم پایان می‌یابد. از کلیّه مشترکین عزیز تقاضا می‌شود فرم اشتراک را هرچه زودتر به آدرس مندرج در ارسال فرمایند. مجلّه عندلیب مشترک شوید و به دوستانتان نیز توصیه فرمائید.

«هیئت تحریریه مجله عندلیب»

Tapes of Bahá’í Literature in English

بعضی از دوستان پیشنهاد فرموده بودند که اگر آثار مبارکه بزبان انگلیسی روی نوار ضبط شده در اختیار احبای ایرانی قرار گیرد ممکن است آنان را کمکی در فرا گرفتن زبان انگلیسی و مخصوصاً آشنا شدن با اصطلاحات امری انگلیسی باشد. در نتیجه بررسی در این زمینه معلوم شد که لجنه خدمت به نابینایان بسیاری از کتب و جزوات امری را بزبان انگلیسی ضبط نموده است و نوارهای کاست آن را برای فروش آماده دارد. صورت نوارهای موجود شامل اکثر کتب و آثار امری است و قیمت نوارها از دو سه دلار برای جزوات كوچك تا حدود پنجاه دلار برای کتب مفصلی مانند "تاریخ نبیل" و "قرن بدیع" معین شده که البته این قیمتها برای نابینایان است. از سایرین تقاضا شده است که ده در صد اضافه بر قیمتهای معین شده بپردازند تا جبران مخارج تهیهٔ نوارها برای نابینایان شود. علاقه‌مندان میتوانند با نشانی ذیل مکاتبه فرمایند.

Bahá’í Service for the Blind

Tucson, AZ 85716 Telephone (602) 795-0263

مواد مُخدّر نازل بالاخص در این ایام که در محیطی ساکنیم که قبح این اعمال از میان رفته است برای عموم یاران رحمانی ضروری است. باید این نصایح را کراراً زیارت نمود و به نوجوانان بهائی تفهیم کرد تا انشاءالله کلّ از ‎وسادس وساوس‎ تمدّن مادی غرب مصون مانیم و رفتار و کردارمان نمونه حیات بهائی باشد.

مطالعه و تعمّق در بیانات و ‎انذارت انذارات‎ صریحه عدیده که در آثار مبارکه در حرمت شرابخواری و استعمال باشد. [Page 25]

Passing of Mr. Sa’id Nahvi

صعود جناب سعید نحوی از فاتحان جهاد کبیر اکبر موجب تأثر و تألم گردید. خدمات صمیمانهٔ ایشان در میادین تبلیغ و هجرت در ممالك متعدده فراموش نشود. مراتب تسلیت به عائلهٔ محترمه ابلاغ ، اطمینان دهید بجهت تعالی روح آن متصاعد الی الله دعا میکنیم.

بیت العدل اعظم

جناب سعید نحوی از خادمین مخلص امرالله که در طول حیات خدمات باهره موفق بودند در ماه فوریه ۱۹۸۷ در سن ۷۶ سالگی در هانتینگتن بیچ (کالیفرنیا) بملکوت ابهی صعود نمودند.

جناب نحوی باتفاق قرینهٔ محترمه در ابتدای نقشهٔ دهساله جهاد کبیر اکبر موفق به فتح روحانی پوندیشری در ساحل جنوب شرقی شبه قاره هندوستان گردیدند و لقب Knights of Bahá’u’lláh بایشان تعلق گرفت. سالها در هندوستان و سری لانکا مهاجر بودند و در ایران نیز بعضویت لجنات ملیّه منصوب شدند و سفرهای تبلیغی متعددی به جزایر پاسیفیك و چندین کشور آفریقائی نمودند.

در سال ۱۹۷۹ جناب نحوی و عائلهٔ مکرمه به ایالات متحده منتقل شدند و در همان سال دعوت لجنهٔ ملّی اهداف بین‌المللی را لبيك گفته بعنوان مبلغ سیار به پاسیفیك سفر نمودند و یکی از اهداف جامعهٔ بهائی امریك را تحقق بخشیدند. از آن پس نیز هر سال چند ماه از وقت خود را صرف سفرهای تبلیغی میفرمودند و در سایر اوقات در محل اقامت خود به تبلیغ و تزیید معلومات یاران اشتغال داشتند. فی‌الحقیقة جا دارد که به تأسی از آن متصاعد الی الله و خدمات عظیمه‌ای که در طول حیات پر ثمرشان تقدیم آستان آلهی نمودند هریك بتناسب امکانات و استعدادات خود قیام بخدمت نمائیم. بازماندگان جناب نحوی بحمدالله در ظلّ امر و قائم بخدمتند.

٦ - اگر با اعضاء اقلیتها معاشر بوده‌اید خصوصیات فرهنگی آنان را بیشتر شبیه خصوصیات فرهنگی کدام گروه یافتید؟ سفیدپوستان امریكائی ( ) ایرانیان ( ) اروپائیها ( )

٧ - معاشرت فرزندانتان را با کدام دسته از جوانان تشویق میکنید؟ ایرانیان ( ) سرخپوستان ( ) مکزیکیها ( ) سیاهپوستان ( ) سفیدپوستان ( ) زردپوستان ( ) هیچکدام ( ) لطفاً علّت آنرا شرح دهید: __________________________________________________________________

٨- اگر فرزند شما با فردی که ایرانی یا امریکائی سفیدپوست نباشد بخواهد ازدواج نماید آیا رضایت خواهید داد؟ بلی ( ) خیر ( ) اگر جواب منفی است لطفاً علّت آنرا شرح دهید: __________________________________________________

٩- در رابطه با سؤال قبل، در چه صورتی رضایت به ازدواج فرزندتان خواهید داد؟ ( ) اگر شخص مورد نظر تحصیلکرده باشد ( ) اگر شخص مورد نظر شغل مهمی ‎داشت داشته‎ باشد ( ) اگر خانوادهٔ شخص مورد نظر متمول باشند ( ) هیچکدام از موارد بالا

مشخصات فردی

حدود سن : ( ) کمتر از ٢٠ سال ( ) ٢١ تا ٥٠ سال ( ) ٢١ تا ۴٠ سال ( ) ٥١ یا بیشتر

آشنائی بزبان انگلیسی : ( ) عالی ( ) خوب ( ) متوسط ( ) ضعیف مدت اقامت در خارج از ایران : ( ) کمتر از يك سال ( ) ۱-۳ سال ( ) ۴-۷ سال ( ) بیش از ۷ سال مدت اقامت در امریکا: ( ) کمتر از يك سال ( ) ۱-۳ سال ( ) ۴-۷ سال ( ) بیش از ۷ سال محل اقامت : شهر ____________ ایالت ____________

تعداد بهائیان جامعهٔ محلّی سفید پوست امریکائی ____ سیاهپوست امریکائی ____ زردپوست ____ اسپانیولی زبان ____ سرخپوست ____ ایرانی ____

National Persian/American Affairs Committee C/O Bahai National Center Wilmette, IL 60091

Poem

شعر از اسکندر رفیعی

"شکر شکن شوند همه طوطیان هند"

رمزی ز اسم اعظم ابها در آن بوَد

گلبرگها برابر نام بهاء بود

بر آن بسجده‌اند ملائك از آسمان

رخشنده زیوری است درخشان بر افسران

گردیده از لوتوس جواهر کنون پدید

رفتند در سکوت بنامای تاج دار

حافظ اگر بگفت به شعرش در آن زمان

"افشان" از آنکه معبد ابها شده عیان

روئیده در زمین هند گلی پر ز رمز و راز این گل چو گلشنی است برای جهانیان نور بها کنون ‎بتلاؤؤ بتلألؤ‎ ز گلشن است باشد که صلح و وحدت دنیا کند بیان

زیبا و پاك و درخشان گل بهاء

گلبرگها برابر نام بهاء بود

در سرزمین هند برازنده ارمغان

رخشنده زیوری است درخشان بر افسران

ام‌المعابدی است که بهر عبادت است

رفتند در سکوت بنامای تاج دار

بر پیروان حضرت ابها و دیگران

"افشان" از آنکه معبد ابها شده عیان

[Page 26]حضرت امةالبهاء روحيه خانم و حضرات ايادى و مشاورين و معاونين دسته دسته با نظم و ترتيب و روحانيت تام و خضوع و خشوع بينظير وارد معبد شده و به استماع آيات و مناجات و سرودها و ترانه‌هاى لاهوتى كه در آن فضاى ملكوتى تلاوت ميشد پرداختند و يكدنيا نشاط و مسرت و خاطره‌هاى شيرين و فراموش نشدنى و روحانى در قلوب خود انباشته و به ارمغان براى ياران سراسر عالم بردند. از جمله امور مهم و مبارك و تاريخى كه يكروز قبل از افتتاح مشرق الاذكار صورت گرفت آن بود كه حضرت امةالبهاء روحيه خانم در معيت ساير حضرات ايادى امرالله جنابان ويليام سيرز و فدرستون و مشاورين قاره‌اى آسيا و اعضاء محفل مقدس روحانى ملى بهائيان هندوستان با تشريفات خاص جعبه نقره‌اى محتوى تراب مطهر اعتاب مقدسه روضه مباركه و مقام اعلى را در داخل سقف يكى از گلبرگهاى گنبد مشرق الاذكار كه مقابل قبله اهل بهاء قرار گرفته تعبيه نموده و بر عظمت و جلال و تيمن و تبرك اين معبد بينظير افزودند.

در اين مراسم پر عظمت و جلال كه در روحانيت نظير آن كمتر ديده شده قريب ٤٠٠ نفر از شخصيتهاى مهم داخلى و خارجى من جمله حاكم محترم دهلى و دبير اول وزارت امور خارجه و جمعى از قضات عاليرتبه ديوان عالى كشور هندوستان و گروهى از سفراى كبار كشورهاى غربى از جمله كانادا و دانمارك و نماينده رسمى واتيكان در هند شركت داشتند.

آهنگ سرودها و ترانه‌هاى امرى بزبان محلى كه بوسيله دسته‌هاى كر در مراسم افتتاح مشرق الاذكار خوانده شد عموماً توسط موسيقى‌دان نامدار هند راوى شنكر كه شهرت جهانى دارد تنظيم شده بود.

پیام جامعه بهائیان ایران

Message from the Friends in Iran

خواهران و برادران عزيز روحانى در اين لحظات پرشكوه كه با تشكيل مؤتمرى عظيم و كم سابقه در عاصمه هندوستان و حضور جمع كثيرى از شيفتگان و مجريان مدنيت الهى كه براى افتتاح ام‌المعابد شبه قاره هند حضور يافته‌اند هموطنان اسم اعظم در زادگاه نخستين جامعه پيروان اين شريعت افخم كه بعلت وقوع امتحانات شديده و رياح افتتانات عديده آرزوى خويش را به جمع آن عزيزان و استفاده از محضر يگانه يادگار گوهر يكتا حضرت امةالبهاء و ميهمانان گرامى و ساير عزيزان و تمتع از فيوضات روحانى و شكوه و عظمت معنويه اين مؤتمر عظيم تاريخى برآورده نمى‌بينند با قلبى طافح از سرور و چشمان اشكبار از شدت شوق و سرور تحيات خالصانه خويش را حضور حضرت امةالبهاء و كليه حاضرين در اين انجمن تقديم و بدينوسيله حضور روحانى خويش را در آن مجمع روحانى احساس مى‌نمايند. گرچه از راه آب و گل دوريم لكن از طريق جان و دل نزديك، بهمين مناسبت روز ۲۲ دسامبر ۱۹۸۶ قاطبه ياران در كشور مقدس ايران دست نياز به ساحت قدس بى انباز بلند نموده و از صميم قلب براى شركت كنندگان اين كنفرانس عظيم آرزوى موفقيت و مصونيت نموده‌اند. و همچنين سيد گلى بياد شهدا و مفقودين عزيز ايران كه از محل تبرع جمعى از خواهران و برادران اسير سجن يوسفى كه دلدادگان معبود حقيقى مى باشند بساحت عزيزان شركت كننده تقديم و واثق داريم كه اين كنگره عظيم نورانى بر اثر هدايت بيت‌العدل اعظم الهى سرآغاز فتوحات باهره و انتصارات جديده عظيمه در شبه قاره هند باشد و بيش از پيش بر شوق و شور و سرور ستايندگان اسم اعظم در سراسر عالم بيفزايد.

با تقديم تحيات و اشواق قلبيه جامعه‌بهائيان ايران

پرسشنامه وحدت نژاد

اين پرسشنامه جهت ارزيابى موارد تعصبات نژادى و امور مربوط به ادغام و اختلاط ياران براى كمك به لجنة ملى امور احباى ايرانى/امريكائى و لجنة ملى وحدت نژاد جهت آگاهى و آشنائى با آن امور و رفع موارد اختلاف تهيه شده است. متمنى است جواب سؤالات را با دقت و صراحت كامل مرقوم بفرمائيد و ‎سوآليه سؤاليه‎ تكميل شده را بنشانى ذيل ارسال فرمائيد.

١ - آيا بنظر شما در بين احباى ايالات متحده تعصب نژادى وجود دارد؟ بلى ( ) خير ( ) مواردى را كه ملاحظه فرموده‌ايد مختصراً شرح دهيد. __________________ __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________

٢ - هيچوقت احساس كرده‌ايد كه نسبت به سياهان، مكزيكى ها يا ساير اقليتهاى غير ايرانى و غير سفيد پوست تعصب داريد؟ بلى ( ) خير ( )

٣ - آيا دوستى از بين اهالى سياهپوست، مكزيكى، سرخپوست، يا زردپوست امريكا داريد؟ بلى ( ) خير ( ) اگر چنين دوستانى داريد هرچند وقت يكبار در منزل يكديگر ميهمان ميشويد؟ غالباً ( ) هر هفته ( ) هرماه يكبار ( ) سالى يكبار ( ) بندرت ( ) هيچوقت ( )

آيا هيچوقت يكى از آنها را براى رفتن به سينما يا پيك نيك يا تماشاى تلويزيون دعوت كرده‌ايد؟ بلى ( ) خير ( )

لطفاً تعداد دوستانى (نه آشنايان) را كه از گروههاى ذيل برگزيده‌ايد مرقوم نمائيد: سياهپوست امريكائى ________ سرخپوست ________ زردپوست ________ سفيد پوست امريكائى ________ اسپانيولى زبان ________ اروپائى ________

٤- اگر هزينه مسكن در منطقه سياهپوستان يا اقليتهاى ديگر ارزانتر از ناحيه سفيدپوستان باشد آيا حاضرید در آن مناطق سكونت نمائيد؟ بلى ( ) خير ( )

اگر حاضر به سكونت در آن مناطق نيستيد علت چيست؟ عدم آشنائى ( ) ترس از عدم امنيت ( ) نا مطبوع بودن محيط ( ) علل ديگر (لطفاً شرح دهيد) : ___________________________

٥ - آيا تاكنون براى تبليغ يا ساير فعاليتهاى امرى به ناحيه يكى از اقليتها رفته‌ايد؟ بلى ( ) خير ( ) احساس خود را در آن مواقع شرح دهيد : ______________________ [Page 27]شرح ذیل از طرف محفل روحانی ملی هندوستان واصل گردیده است.

افتتاح مشرق‌الاذکار هندوستان

Indian Temple Dedication

شهر دهلی نو پایتخت کشور تاریخی هندوستان در روزهای اخیر دسامبر ۱۹۸۶ شاهد شور و هیجان و اشتعال و انجذاب یاران راستان، احبای محبوب و مشتاق حضرت منان بود. در هر ساعت از شبانه روز جمعی از عزیزان مقیم گوشه‌ای از پنج قاره مختلف جهان ممالک و جزایر دور و نزدیك با یکدنیا شور و شوق و هیجان وارد فرودگاه بین المللی دهلی شده و با راهنمائی دوستان جانفشان، خدمتگزاران و تنظیم کنندگان مراسم کنفرانس به حظیرةالقدس ملی هدایت میشدند.

در گوشه‌ای از فضای مصفا و زیبای حظیرةالقدس خیمه عظیمی برای انجام مراسم معرفی و اسم نویسی دوستان برپا شده بود که در آن جنب و جوش و بهجت و سرور زایدالوصفی بچشم میخورد. جای همه دوستان و یاران بخصوص احبای عزیز و ممتحن و جانفشان مهد امرالله خالی که چه عالمی و چه نشاط و سروری در این فضای روحانی حکمفرما بود. آغوشها بروی هم باز میشد و عشق و محبتهای قلبی و روحانی از طرف دوستان نثار یکدیگر میگردید. همه جا بانگ الله‌ابهی بلند بود. شرقی و غربی، شمالی و جنوبی، سیاه و سفید، سرخ و زرد و افراد قبائل و طوائف و نژادهای مختلف چون برادران و خواهران حقیقی اختلاف عادات و رسوم و زبان و نژاد و رنگ را فراموش کرده و تنها يك کلمه نقطه نظرگاه آنها بود عشق بحضرت بهاءالله و ذکر تکبیر زیبای الله‌ابهی. در اینجا برخی از یاران مهد امرالله منتشره در قارات خمسه عالم پس از سالیان دراز هجر و دوری دوستان و عزیزان خود را در جمع زیارت میکردند و از دیدار آنان حظ و نشاط وافر برده و اشك شوق و ذوق از دیده جاری میساختند و شکر و سپاس آستان مقدس حضرت بهاءالله را بپاس اینهمه فیض و موهبت و لطف و عنایت بجا میآوردند. عالمی بود که با بهشت حقیقی برابری میکرد. همه میدانستند که با قبول رنج سفر به چه افتخارات و حظ و نشاط روحانی نائل آمده‌اند و چه روزهای پر از بهجت و سروری در انتظار آنهاست: شرکت در کنفرانس تاریخی دهلی و مراسم پر شکوه و جلال افتتاح مشرق‌الاذکار بینظیر شبه قاره هند زیارت حضرت امةالبهاء حرم مبارك حضرت ولی امرالله نماینده مخصوص معهد اعلی و دیدار هزاران نفر از یاران راستان حضرت رحمن و دوستان و افراد فامیل منتشره در اطراف و اکناف جهان. اما مسئله‌ای که در همه جا و در هر گوشه و کنار شمع جمع دوستان و ورد زبان یاران و بهجت افزای روح و روان عزیزان بود ذکر جانبازی و شهامت و فداکاری و شجاعت و استقامت و یاران ستمدیده مهد امرالله بود و همه زبانها باین حقیقت گویا که این همه آوازها از شه بود و ذکر فتوحات و انتشاراتی میشد که در این سالهای اخیر بطور معجزه آسا و وصف ناپذیر نصیب عالم امر شده و همه از برکات و ثمرات خون پاك و مقدس شهداء و نتیجه شجاعت و شهامت و استقامت یاران مهد امرالله بوده است.

هر يك از دوستان چه حکایتها و روایتها و چه داستانهای جانبخش از جانبازی و فداکاری و صبر و شکیبائی عزیزان آن سرزمین مقدس نقل میکردند. روزها و ساعتها سپری شد و انتظارها بپایان رسید و یوم و ساعتی بود که ۸۰۰۰ شرکت کننده در کنفرانس منتظر آن بودند فرارسید و ستایشندگان اسم اعظم با نظم و ترتیب و سکون و قرار هر چه تمام که لازمه پروردگان ید عنایت حضرت ولی محبوب امرالله است در استادیوم عظیم ایندیرا گاندی، بزرگترین استادیوم سرپوشیده دهلی، اجتماع نمودند. وجوه نورانی این جمع که نیمی از آن را ستایشندگان اسم اعظم در شبه قاره هند از قبائل و طوائف و عشایر و ایالات و ولایات مختلف این کشور پهناور تشکیل میدادند شادی و سرور و بهجت و نشاط وافری هویدا بود. وصف و بیان جریان کنفرانس عظیمی که بمدت ۵ روز از ۲۳ تا ۲۷ دسامبر ادامه داشت قطعاً در این مختصر نگنجد و شایسته است که رساله و کتاب مفصلی درباره آن برشته تحریر درآید. لذا جهت مزید بهجت و سرور عزیزان مهد امرالله بذکر وقایع مهم آن به ایجاز و اختصار اکتفا میشود:

زیارت حضرت امةالبهاء روحیه خانم و استماع پیام جان افزای معهد‌اعلی که توسط معظم لها قرائت گردید موجب شادی و مسرت زائد الوصف شرکت کنندگان در کنفرانس بود. با تشریف فرمائی حضرت حرم و ایادی محبوب امرالله جنابان ویلیام سیرز و فد‌رستون و بمحض ایراد خطابه حاضرین بمنظور ادای احترام قیام و با کف زدنهای ممتد مراسم ادای احترام و محبت و اشتیاق فوق‌العاده خود را ابراز داشتند و با استماع پیام ملکوتی بیت العدل اعظم الهی زنگ هر تألم و تأثری را از صفحه قلب زدودند. استماع پیام یاران شجاع و مستقیم مهد امرالله و زیارت شاخه‌های گل سرخ زیبای اهدائی مسجونین از سرزمین عنبر سرشت بیاد شهدای محبوب نیز از دقایق بسیار فرحبخش و خاطره‌انگیز و فراموش نشدنی کنفرانس بود و حاضرین را به شدت تحت تأثیر عواطف و احساسات لطیفه عزیزان موطن جمال اقدس ابهی قرار داد.

نفس این اجتماع هشت هزار نفری از نژادها و قبائل و اقوام و ملل مختلف و انس و الفت و محبتی که بر این جمع نورانی حکمفرما بود خود نمونه و شاهد بارز و زنده‌ای از آثار وحدت جهانی موعود حضرت بهاءالله و گویای امکان تحقق آن بر پهنه جهان خاك بود و زمانی که نمایندگان محافل روحانی ملی ۱۱۴ کشور و جزیره جهان هر يك با لباسهای محلی مخصوص خود پس از قرائت نام کشورشان بروی صحنه ظاهر شده و اجتماع نمودند شور و ولوله و شادی و سرور زایدالوصفی در یاران حاضر پدید آورد و با کف زدنهای ممتد مراتب بهجت و سرور خود را از زیارت آنان ابراز داشتند و این صحنه و نمایش بسیار زیبا و جالب ملکوتی نیز نموداری از نظم اداری بی مثیل و نظیر حضرت بهاءالله را برای شرکت کنندگان مجسم میساخت که چگونه در مدتی کوتاه بسیط غبرا را با چنان وسعت و عظمت و جلال و شکوه احاطه نموده است. ورود نمایندگان برخی از قبائل و عشایر هندوستان نیز که با لباسهای زیبای محلی خویش بروی صحنه آمدند از خاطرات فراموش نشدنی کنفرانس و شاهد انتشار سریع امرالله در بین آن نفوس سلیمه مخلصه بود.

از دیگر رویدادهای فراموش نشدنی استماع تاریخچه بسیار شیرین و شنیدنی مشرق‌الاذکار هند از بدو خریداری زمین آن بوسیله نفس بسیار مخلص و جلیل‌القدری در زمان حیات حضرت ولی عزیز امرالله تا بپایان ساختمان آن بود که بوسیله مهندس عالیقدر و بسیار هنرمند آن جناب فریبرز صهبا بیان شد و همه حاضرین را غرق در عوالم خوش سرور روحانی نمود.

۲۴ دسامبر روز تاریخی افتتاح مشرق‌الاذکار بود روزیکه همه عزیزان با ‎بیم‌صبری بی‌صبری‎ هر چه تمام انتظار فرارسیدن آن را داشتند. روز و ساعاتی بود که هر دقیقه آن با عمری برابری میکرد. لحظاتی بود که همه یاران برای درك آن رنجها و مشکلات احتمالی سفر را بجان و دل قبول نموده و آرزوی وصول بآن را در دل و جان پرورانده بودند و هزاران شکر و سپاس آستان محبوب یکتا جمال اقدس ابهی را سزاست که باین افتخار و منقبت و فضل و عنایت نائل آمدند. همه زائرین این معبد بسیار زیبا و ملکوتی که در حال حاضر تنها ام‌المعابد قاره آسیا و هفتمین مشرق الاذکار جهانست با قلب و روحی طافح از عشق و محبت معبود عالمیان حضرت بهاءالله در معیت محبوب دل و جان خود [Page 28]

بیاد محبوب

Remembering the Master

از جمله فعالیتهایی که در ارتباط با هفتاد و پنجمین سالگرد سفر حضرت مولی الوری به ایالات متحده ترتیب داده شده جلساتی است که بیادبود دو روز تاریخی از ایام اقامت آن طلعت نورا در مدینه شیکاگو تشکیل خواهد شد.

حضرت ولی عزیز امرالله در توقیع منیع قرن بدیع (God Passes By) هفت اقدام هیکل مبارک را در طی آن سفر تاریخی مهمترین وقایع آن سفر دانسته‌اند. دو اقدام از آن هفت اقدام در شیکاگو و اطراف آن انجام گرفته و یاران آن منطقه قصد دارند طی مراسمی خاص یاد آن دو یوم مبارک را گرامی بدارند. اول خطابه‌ای است که هیکل اطهر در تاریخ ۳۰ آپریل ۱۹۱۲ در کانونشنی که بدعوت "مجمع مشرق‌الاذکار" (Bahai Temple Unity) ترتیب داده شده بود ایراد فرمودند و دوم نصب حجر زاویه مشرق الاذکار روز بعد در ویلمت. در بدایع الآثار، سفرنامه مبارک، در شرح این دو واقعه مهم چنین آمده است:

"روز ۱۳ جمادی الاولی ۳۰ آپریل ... از آنجا بمجلس بهائیان که باسم مشرق‌الاذکار داشتند تشریف بردند و حین ورود مبارک در تالار وسیع جمعیت قریب دو هزار نفر با آنکه همه بهائی نبودند فوراً جمیع برخاستند و احبا شورش عظیم در محفل انداختند و ندای الله‌ابهی فضای تالار را پر نمود بعد از سرود احبا در نعت و ثنا هیکل اقدس خطابه‌ای در خصوص مقصود از معبد و اتحاد و اجتماع نفوس مختلفه در ظل کلمه واحده مشروح فرمودند و پس از مناجاتی فارسی بلحن حزین مؤثری حرکت نمودند بعضی از اجله شهر تا بیرون مجلس مشرف شدند و هم اجازه تشرف در منزل مبارک بجهت وقت دیگر گرفتند و جمعیت تا حین سوار شدن و حرکت کالسکه مبارک در اطراف حلقه زده بود..."

"روز ۱۴ جمادی الاولی (اول ماه مایو ۱۹۱۲) ... ساعتی بعد ‎بنزمین به زمین‎ مشرق‌الاذکار بیرون شهر که برای این بناء عظیم خریده شده بود عازم شدند و آن روز احباب جمیع در آن جا مجتمع بودند و خیمه‌ای برای محفل لقا و تشرف احباء زده بودند. اول سواره دور آن زمین گردشی فرمودند و حدود را ملاحظه نموده بعد زیر خیمه ایستادند و جمعیت احباء همه حلقه زده طائف و متوجه وجه انور بودند در آن حالت نطقی فصیح در قوه خارق‌العاده امر حضرت بهاءالله و اجتماع نفوس شرق و غرب در ظل کلمة الله و ذکر مشرق‌الاذکار عشق آباد و امریکا فرمودند و بعد بمحل سنگ بنا تشریف بردند و امة‌الله مس هلمز آلتی از طلا که بجهت آن روز از پیش ساخته بود تقدیم نمود که با آن آلت اول بدست مبارک جای سنگ بنا را کندند بعد ملتزمین رکاب مبارک يك يك بحفر زمین مشغول و مفتخر گشتند آنگاه وکلای مجامع آمریکا را حسب‌الامر صلا زدند و هر يك تیشه‌ای زد و خاك پاکی برداشت بعد از قبل ملل شرق نفوسی را نیابت عنایت فرمودند که هر يك بالنیابة از جمعی بخدمت مفتخر آمد من جمله مهتر اردشیر بهرام سروش از قبل احبای پارسیان جناب سیداسدالله از قبل دوستان فرقانیان جناب دکتر ضیا بالنیابة از دوستان عرب و امة‌الله قدسیه خانم اشرف ایرانی از قبل اماء‌الله شرق هر يك بحفر مشغول چون نیابت کل باتمام رسید سنگ بنا را بدست مبارک گذاردند پس از آن يك يك احباء را نوازش فرموده حرکت کردند..."

امروز بنای عظیم مشرق الاذکار، ام‌المعابد غرب، در ویلمت بر ساحل دریاچه میشیگان سایه افکنده و به بیش از دو میلیون نفوسی که هر سال از اطراف کشور و نقاط مختلف عالم بزیارت آن میشتابند وعده وحدت و یگانگی میدهد. نیروئی که واردین را تحت تاثیر قرار میدهد و محو زیبائی و ابهت آن مینماید قدرت کلمه خلاقه الهیه است که مردم جهان را در ظل لوای آئین یزدانی در میآورد و در سبیل حصول وحدت عالم انسانی بخدمت میگمارد.

سفرهای تبلیغی

حضرت مولی الوری در لوح هفتم از مکاتیب منیعه‌ای که به "فرامین تبلیغی" موصوف گشته خطاب به یاران امريك و کانادا میفرمایند:

"ای کاش از برای من میسر میشد که پای پیاده ولو بکمال فقر بآن صفحات مسافرت مینمودم و نعره زنان در شهرها و دهات و کوه و بیابان و دریا یا بهاء‌الابهی میگفتم و ترویج تعالیم الهی مینمودم. ولی حال از برای من میسر نه لهذا در حسرتی عظیم هستم بلکه انشاءالله شماها موفق گردید."

هفتاد و پنج سال قبل مرکز عهد و میثاق بهاء که قسمت عمده از حیات خود را در سجن و تبعید گذرانده بود عزم سفر به غرب نمود و برای نشر نفحات مسکیه الهیه و تبلیغ امر رب‌البرية قدم بساحل امريك نهاد و در مدت ۲۳۹ روز به شرق و غرب و مرکز و شمال آمریکای شمالی سفر فرمود و در هر نقطه که بقدوم مبارکش مشرف گشت ندای یا بهاء‌الابهی بلند نمود و وضیع و شریف و عالم و عامی را بامر مبارك اب بزرگوارش دعوت فرمود. مع ذلک در سالهای آخر حیات عنصری شکایت از عدم توانائی به سفر به سایر نقاط عالم مینماید و از این جهت حسرت میخورد و اظهار امیدواری میفرماید که شیفتگان جمالش به آن خدمت موفق شوند. پس بجاست که بیاد سفر پر تعب آن غصن اعظم و سرّالله‌الاکرم و بمنظور اجابت آرزوئی که در بیان فوق ابراز فرموده در طول سال جاری همگی مدتی از وقت و نیروی خود را وقف سفرهای تبلیغی نمائیم باشد که پس از سه ربع قرن نوایای قلبیه آن سرور اهل بهاء تحقق پذیرد و جامعه بهائی آمریکا که مورد عنایات مخصوصه واقع شده بتوفیقات ‎بیمایه‌ای بی‌کرانی‎ نائل گردد.

احبای عزیز برای اطلاع از فرصتهای موجود در میدان اسفار تبلیغی و ترتیب دادن برنامه سفر خود میتوانند بوسیله تلفن ۴۴۹۵-۷۸۵-۲۰۸ با دفتر مبلغین سیار تماس بگیرند.

آموزش بهداشت در سوازیلند

Health Education in Swaziland

جناب دکتر سيامك منجم از جانب Peak Clinic Piggs که توسط احباء در مملکت سوازیلند (آفریقای جنوبی) تأسیس شده و اداره میشود اطلاع داده‌اند که در نظر است برنامه‌های کلينيك مذکور را توسعه دهند و برنامه آموزشی جهت بهبود شرایط بهداشتی در مناطق روستائی ایجاد نمایند.

برای تأسیس و اداره برنامه آموزشی مورد نظر بوجود شخصی نیاز است که دارای تجربه و اطلاعات لازم باشد و بتواند برنامه‌ای شامل تدریس و تعلیم عملی روشهای بهداشتی صحیح به خانواده‌های روستانشین ایجاد نماید و بالاخص دارای حسن سلیقه و ابتکار لازم برای یافتن راه حلهای مناسب با اوضاع و احوال محل باشد. چون قسمت عمده کار مربوط به تعلیم دادن مادران است مسؤولین برنامه معتقدند که یکی از اماء‌الرحمن بهتر میتواند از عهده انجام وظیفه برآید و اگر تحصیلات داوطلب در رشته پرستاری یا بهداشت عمومی باشد کسب اجازه اقامت و کار آسان تر خواهد بود. خانه و حقوق کافی برای احتیاجات يك نفر تأمین میشود این موقعیت برای يك نفر جوان فعال و پر انرژی که آماده باشد دو سه سال از وقت خود را صرف ‎آیین این‎ برنامه بنماید یا فردی بازنشسته که از صحت کامل برخوردار باشد مناسب است.

HUQUQU’LLAH

طبق صلاحديد و پیشنهاد هیئت امنای حقوق‌الله در آمریکا، تقدیمی‌های حقوق‌الله باید بنام Huququ’llah Trust و بنشانی یکی از امنای حقوق ارسال شود.

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 [Page 29]

Ads

from page 23

WLGI-Radio Bahá’í is updating its resource file of ‎Bahá’í’s Bahá’ís‎ who have experience in broadcasting. If you are an experienced producer, writer, programmer, administrator or technician, or if you are studying radio broadcasting, we would appreciate receiving a copy of your ‎resume résumé‎. If you have already submitted one, please send us an updated version. Please do not send any sample materials at this time, and please include a summary of your Bahá’í activities and experience. We are especially interested in receiving information from black Bahá’ís and from Bahá’ís who are from the South or who have lived in the South. Please write to: Kurt Hein, general manager, WLGI Radio, Hemingway, SC 29554.

SUMMER teaching project on the Navajo Reservation needs youth and one older person or couple as house parent(s) and overseer (handicapped persons welcome). Furnished house and basic food (beans and rice) provided by a resident Bahá’í family who will be travel-teaching elsewhere but will return to help consolidation during the following school year. The project runs from June 1-August 15 and requires a minimum four-week commitment anywhere within that period. Contact Bill Bright, Chinle, AZ 86503, or phone 602-674-5685.

AGAIN—with thanks to all those who have responded to past ads—I am studying the work of Oscar Ichazo and the Arica Institute, and would like to hear from people who have taken part in the Arica training. Are there any friends out there who are implementing Arica ideas in their Bahá’í activities? How can Oscar Ichazo’s work be used in the pioneer field? If you can help, please write to Marylou Krummenacker, Las Cruces, NM 88001, or phone 505-522-7834.

ARTISTS wanted to form a group tentatively called “Artists Save Our Life Forms.” Interested individuals can start to brainstorm and network with one another and eventually provide conservation organizations and other “world-saving” endeavors with visual materials. I am especially interested in preventing animal extinction, working from a Bahá’í perspective with groups in harmony with our laws. Would also like to work with scientists, biologists, ecologists and others who can provide accurate up-to-date information for us to draw from. Send you name, address and other relevant information to Anhara Lovato, P.O. Box 114, ‎Tesugue Tesuque‎, NM 87574 (phone 505-983-5564).

WANTED: The National Bahá’í Archives is seeking photographs or tape recordings of Anthony Madonia, a Bahá’í pioneer to the Navajo Reservation who died April 25, 1960, in Window Rock, Arizona. If you have any photographs or tape recordings that could be donated, please contact the National Bahá’í Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

MUSICIANS! I am looking for a writer/composer. Preferably upbeat: reggae/rock. Need someone with a strong desire and commitment to communicate Bahá’í morals and teachings and make an impact on the world. I want songs that move people. Inspirations for style include: Howard Jones, “Little Bit of Snow”; Joni Mitchell, “Ethiopia”; Howard Jones, “Don’t Want to Fight Anymore”; Sting, “Love on the Seventh Wave”; Sting, “I Hope the Russians Love Their Children Too.” Write to Heather Fisher, P.O. Box 115, Deerfield, NH 03037, or phone 603-463-9061.

Martyr

from page 16

two nights each week from 7:30 to 11 p.m. Besides these meetings, each Assembly member was responsible for several committees.

Mr. Rawshani was retired early from his job, but still needed to work to support himself. He was offered a salary to work full-time as secretary of the Spiritual Assembly of Tehran but refused to take the position on the grounds that he felt his efforts for the Faith should be out of love and sacrifice, not for pay.

Once, a friend and fellow Assembly member was riding home with Mr. Rawshani after a meeting and tried to insist that Mr. Rawshani accept the position as secretary. Mr. Rawshani became angry and threatened to throw him out of the car, saying it was impossible for him to accept such an arrangement.

Mr. Rawshani later became ill and had to go to London on two separate occasions for surgery. After recovering from the second operation he could have elected to remain in London, but chose to return to Iran despite the turmoil caused by the Islamic Revolution.

On January 3, 1980, he was kidnapped, the third Bahá’í to disappear in that manner. The Bahá’ís have had no clue as to his whereabouts for seven years, and he is presumed dead.

His sacrificial devotion to Bahá’u’lláh and the progress of His Cause is well worthy of our emulation.

‘The more one can give, the better it is ...’ National Bahá’í Fund Wilmette, IL 60091

ITEMS AVAILABLE

A WONDERFUL new index for Brilliant Star magazine for March 1986 through January 1987 issues is now available! Use for Holy Days, children’s classes and fun! Send $2 to Brilliant Star, 5010 Austin Road, Hixson, TN 37343.

ATTENTION stamp collectors: for more than 30 years the first pioneer to Taiwan, Mrs. Ridvani Suleimani, saved stamps for her friends in more than 90 countries. This collection of more than 1,300 stamps has been stored away since her death five years ago; now, Mr. Suleimani would like to sell all eight books to benefit the International Bahá’í Fund. A complete count and description of all stamps is available. Please write to the Tainan Bahá’í Center, Tainan, Taiwan, ROC.

QUICK! While they last: back issues of Child’s Way and Brilliant Star magazines, five issues, our choice for $5. Send check to Brilliant Star, 5010 Austin Road, Hixson, TN 37343.

MISCELLANEOUS

ATTENTION all pioneers from the Philadelphia area! Here’s your big chance to see friends old and new in Philadelphia and be part of a super celebration of the 75th anniversary of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit to the city. The Spiritual Assembly of Philadelphia will hold its biggest celebration/reunion yet the weekend of June 5-7, and we need to know as soon as possible if you will attend. Included will be a reunion party, a Unity Feast, a talk by Mildred Mottahedeh, entertainment, firesides and much, much more! Please let us know if you’ll be coming by writing to the Spiritual Assembly of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19151, or by phoning 215-877-6667. Let us know if you’ll need Bahá’í hospitality or if you prefer hotel accommodations.

BAHÁ’Í computer game, “Spiritual Pursuits,” a facts game for the Commodore 64 and 128 personal computers. Features six full-color screens, animation, three-part harmony Bahá’í music, four categories of questions with 200 questions per category. Includes a “question-maker” program so you can create your own category and question disks, plus a scrolling billboard of Robert Harris’s 101 teaching tips. Comes with complete documentation. The cost? In a store, easily worth $30 or more. Your cost? Send two blank disks, a large, self-addressed, stamped envelope with $2 in postage attached, and a pledge that you have sent a contribution to the National Fund. Do not tell me how much ... just promise me, on your word as a Bahá’í, that you have sent something above your regular contribution. How much is up to you. Send the disks, stamped envelope, postage and promise to Jim Wilde, Danville, KY 40422. Great for Feasts, Holy Days or firesides!

Idaho Bahá’í one of 13 U.S. nominees for service-oriented ‘Heart of Gold’ award

Harry P. Massoth (center), a Bahá’í from Buhl, Idaho, who has been recognized by the state for his many activities on behalf of the International Year of Peace.

Harry P. Massoth, a Bahá’í from Buhl, Idaho, is one of 13 nominees for the national “Heart of Gold” award sponsored by Edward D. Jones and company.

The award is given locally and nationally to recognize individuals for exemplary community service.

Mr. Massoth also received an Outstanding Achievement Award from the Twin Falls community for his “dedication and inspiration during the International Year of Peace.” The award was presented during an IYP “We Are the World” show held last October at the College of Southern Idaho.

Mr. Massoth was cited for being the creator of Idaho’s “Magic Peace Project” aimed at making world peace by the year 2000 an idea whose time has come.

During the IYP he served as chairman of the Magic Valley Peace Committee which coordinated the project’s many events and activities.

Most significant, however, was Mr. Massoth’s rapid and creative response to an uprising by a regional white supremacist group in Idaho.

While that group burned a cross on a farm near Jerome, Idaho, as part of a crusade to establish an all-white republic in five northwestern states, Mr. Massoth organized a religious service at the Guadalupe Center around the theme of “One Planet, One People ... Please.”

About 150 people attended the service including Lola Evans, the wife of former Gov. John Evans, who read a statement on behalf of the governor.

The counter-rally attracted regional and national media attention and earned Mr. Massoth the designation of “leader of the peace movement in Idaho”—a statement that was published in the Idaho Register, a statewide Catholic newspaper.

Mr. Massoth works as a plant pathologist and breeder at Gallatin Valley Seed Company, teaches classes on world religion for the Community Education Division of the College of Southern Idaho, and performs with the local symphony orchestra.

He, his wife, Gainelle, and their three children live on a farm near Buhl, where they are homefront pioneers.

new from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust

Showing children that God can be praised everywhere A familiar quotation from the writings of Bahá’u’lláh returns, set in large, easy-to-read type. Charming illustrations of multicultural children by Anna Stevenson capture several meanings of each concept in the verse. HC $895 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 30]

Riḍván election forms

Please tell us where you want your Assembly mail to go and what the Assembly’s current address is.

Remember that all Assembly mail will be sent in care of the secretary.

Election forms which have been sent to existing Assemblies will have the Assembly’s address label already attached over the upper right-hand box where the locality name, Bahá’í locality code and district are requested.

If this is not the case with your Assembly, please be sure to provide your locality name, Bahá’í locality code and district in this box.

Your Bahá’í locality code can be found on your membership printout or your mailing label on the Assembly’s copy of The American Bahá’í.

Please fill in all information requested for officers of your Assembly including name, Bahá’í identification number, current address and telephone numbers.

If you are not able to elect officers right away, please appoint a temporary correspondent and list that person’s name, address, Bahá’í identification number and telephone number in the box marked “secretary.” When you elect officers at a later date, report them on the local Spiritual Assembly Officer and Address Change form.

LOCAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY FORMATION REPORT FORM

SIDE A

PLEASE TYPE OR PRINT CLEARLY

PLEASE COMPLETE AND SUBMIT IMMEDIATELY EVEN IF OFFICERS ARE TEMPORARY

ASSEMBLY MAIL Send all mail for Secretary to: [ ] Assembly address given below (Post Office Box or Bahá’í Center) [ ] Secretary’s home address Assembly’s Address (If different than the Secretary’s home address) __________________________________________________ Street, Rural Route or Post Office Box Number __________________________________________________ City, State, Zip	Locality Name ____________________________________ Bahá’í Locality Code* ____________________________ District _________________________________________ *The Community’s Bahá’í Locality Code can be found on any computer printed Assembly mailing label
CHAIRMAN Name __________________________ ID #* __________ Address ________________________________________ City/State ________________________ Zip _________ Home Phone (_____) _________ Work Phone (_____) _________ Area Code                       Area Code VICE-CHAIRMAN Name __________________________ ID #* __________ Address ________________________________________ City/State ________________________ Zip _________ Home Phone (_____) _________ Work Phone (_____) _________ Area Code                       Area Code SECRETARY Name __________________________ ID #* __________ Address ________________________________________ City/State ________________________ Zip _________ Home Phone (_____) _________ Work Phone (_____) _________ Area Code                       Area Code TREASURER Name __________________________ ID #* __________ Address ________________________________________ City/State ________________________ Zip _________ Home Phone (_____) _________ Work Phone (_____) _________ Area Code                       Area Code OTHER OFFICER (IF ANY)      Office Held ________ Name __________________________ ID #* __________ Address ________________________________________ City/State ________________________ Zip _________ Home Phone (_____) _________ Work Phone (_____) _________ Area Code                       Area Code *Individual ID Numbers are on the membership list, membership card, and the American Bahá’í address label	COMPLETE THIS SECTION IF YOU ARE REPORTING AN ASSEMBLY ELECTION For each Assembly member, provide the following information: Name ID # Votes Received                   In this box, please list all nine names and Bahá’í identification numbers of Assembly members, and the number of votes each member received. You need not fill in this section if you are forming by joint declaration.
Send YELLOW copy to: NATIONAL TEACHING COMMITTEE BAHÁ’Í NATIONAL CENTER WILMETTE, IL 60091 Keep BLUE copy for your records	COMPLETE BOTH SIDES OF THIS FORM I certify, on behalf of the Local Spiritual Assembly, that all nine members of the Assembly are Bahá’ís in good standing and that they are registered by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States as members of the American Bahá’í community. Signature ______________________________________ Print Name _____________________________________ ID # ___________________________________________ Home Phone (_____) _________ Work Phone (_____) _________ Area Code                       Area Code

The secretary of the Assembly, or the person assigned to help in its formation, should complete this box certifying that he or she has verified the membership of each Assembly member.

Please be sure to print your name, as well as sign it, and to provide us with your telephone numbers.

Remember to send the yellow copy to the National Teaching Committee and to keep the blue copy for your files.

You can look for identification numbers on your community membership printout, the person’s Bahá’í membership card, or a person’s address label from The American Bahá’í.

NTC 3/87 [Page 31]

Riḍván election forms

Here are samples of both sides of the Riḍván election form for this year. We have highlighted each section with a brief explanation to help you with questions you may have about the form. In addition, please note the following:

1. Remember to complete both sides of the form and to include all requested information.

2. If you are not able to find an identification number or some other piece of information, please attach an explanation to the form, such as, “new believer, doesn’t have ID card yet.”

3. If your Assembly does not receive election materials in time for Riḍván, you may request extra forms and instructions from your District Teaching Committee or the National Teaching Committee, or you may cut these forms out of The American Bahá’í and use them.

4. Please review the forms before sending them in to be sure you’ve included as much information as possible and an explanation for anything you have had to omit. Remember that we are receiving and recording information from more than 1,700 Assemblies, and sometimes inadvertent mistakes or incomplete or incorrect information on an election form will cause delays in getting your Assembly’s information properly recorded.

5. Any questions about Assembly formations can be addressed to the National Teaching Committee. A Bahá’í National Center hotline will be available on April 20 and 21 at 312-869-9039. Please call us if you feel there is any problem with your Assembly forming.

If you are forming by election, please complete the top section of side B.

If you are forming by joint declaration, please complete the bottom section of side B.

You can look for identification numbers on your community membership printout, a person’s Bahá’í membership card, or a person’s address label from The American Bahá’í,

COMPLETE ONLY ONE OF THE SECTIONS BELOW:
T E L L E R S R E P O R T	ASSEMBLY REPORT SIDE B
	An election meeting was held on ______________________________________, 19___, at _________ a.m./p.m. The following should be reported to the community after the ballots are counted: Number Voting in Person ........................................................................ __________ Number Voting by Absentee Ballot ........................................................ + __________ Total Number of Ballots Cast ................................................................. = __________ Number of Invalid Ballots, If Any ............................................................ - __________ Total Number of Valid Ballots Cast ........................................................ = __________ Number of Believers not Voting .................................... + __________ Total Number of Adult Believers in Locality .... = __________
	Tellers: (There must be more than one) Name (Please print) Phone No. __________________________________________ ___________________ Name (Please print) Phone No. __________________________________________ ___________________ Name (Please print) Phone No. __________________________________________ ___________________	Has the community accepted the tellers’ report? ________________ __________________________________________ Signature of Chief Teller
J O I N T D E C L A R A T I O N	JOINT DECLARATION
	A Joint Declaration was held on ______________________________________, 19___, at _________ a.m./p.m. ID Number* Name Signature ___________ _________________________________ _________________________________ ___________ _________________________________ _________________________________ ___________ _________________________________ _________________________________ ___________ _________________________________ _________________________________ ___________ _________________________________ _________________________________ ___________ _________________________________ _________________________________ ___________ _________________________________ _________________________________ ___________ _________________________________ _________________________________ ___________ _________________________________ _________________________________
* Individual ID Numbers are on the Membership list, membership card, and the American Bahá’í address label
PLEASE REPORT ELECTION OF OFFICERS ON THE REVERSE SIDE OF THIS FORM

[Page 32]

Este es el Día en que la guerra será olvidada

¿Sabéis vosotros en que Día estáis viviendo? ¿Os dáis cuenta en que Dispensación estáis con vida? ¿No habéis leído en las Sagradas Escrituras que en la consumación de los siglos aparecerá un Día que es el Sol de todos los días Pasados?

¡Este es el Día en que el Señor de las Huestes ha descendido del cielo en las nubes de gloria! Este es el Día en que los habitantes del mundo se acogerán al abrigo de la Palabra de Dios.

Este es el Día cuyo soberano real es Su Alteza, el Omnipotente. Este es el Día en que el Este y el Oeste como dos amantes se abrazarán en uno al otro. Este es el Día en que la guerra será olvidada.

Este es el Día en que las naciones y los gobiernos celebrarán un convenio de amistad y reconciliación. Este siglo es el cumplimiento del Siglo Prometido.

Este Día es el alba de la aparición de las señales de las gloriosas visiones de los Profetas y Sabios del pasado.

¡Ahora es el alba; antes de mucho saldrá el sol refulgente y se colocará en el meridiano de su majestad. Entonces, vosotros observaréis los efectos del Sol.

Entonces, contemplaréis que el iluminamiento celestial se ha manifestado. Entonces, veréis que este mundo se ha convertido en otro mundo. Entonces, percibiréis que las Enseñanzas de Dios se han extendido universalmente.

Estad seguros que esta oscuridad se disipará y que estas nubes impenetrables que han oscurecido el horizonte se dispersarán, y el Sol de la Realidad aparecerá en su pleno esplendor.

Sus rayos derretirán los témpanos del odio de las diferencias que han transformado en bullente mar de la humanidad en una inmensidad congelada.

Los vicios del mundo de la humanidad se transformarán en atributos loables, y aparecerán las luces de las excelencias del reino divino.

Como el espíritu, los principios de Bahá’u’lláh penetrarán el cuerpo muerto del mundo, y como una arteria, el amor de Dios latirá en el corazón de los cinco continentes.

El Este se iluminará y el Oeste se perfumará y los hijos de los hombres entrarán en el pabellón ‎onnimodo omnímodo‎ de la unicidad del mundo de la humanidad.

En este Día el resto de la gente está dormida. ¡La loanza sea a Dios que vosotros estáis despiertos! ¡Todos ellos no están informados, más, la loanza sea a Dios, vosotros estáis informados de los misterios de Dios!

Agradeced a Dios que en esta arena, vosotros habéis procedido a otros. Yo espero que cada uno de vosotros pueda convertirse en un pilar del palacio de la unicidad del mundo de la humanidad.

Que cada uno de vosotros pueda convertirse en una estrella luminosa de este cielo, iluminando así el sendero de aquellos que buscan la meta de la perfección humana. —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Mensaje de la Casa Universal de Justicia: octubre de 1986

A todas las Asambleas Espirituales Nacionales Queridos Amigos Bahá’ís,

Nos entristeció recibir la siguiente información de Iran. Esta información está siendo compartida con ustedes para información de su comunidad. Por el momento, no se debe tomar ninguna acción para comunicarla a las autoridades o publicarla en los medios noticieros.

El Sr. Iraj Mihdí-Nizhád, de 59 años de edad, un bahá’í prominente de Bandar-’Abbás, murió ‎apuñalada apuñalado‎ por un grupo de personas. En su cuerpo se observaron ‎dieciseis dieciséis‎ puñaladas. El Sr. Mihdí-Nizhád era un funcionario público y lo despidieron de su trabajo por su fe, al igual que otros miles de bahá’ís. Debido a la necesidad y para poder ganar un ingreso, se convirtió en un vendedor ambulante, vendiendo varios artículos en las calles. Después del asesinato, su yerno y su hijo fueron detenidos por 48 horas para una interrogación por la policía. Sin embargo, los asesinos fueron detenidos más tarde. Los asesinos pertenecían a una familia; uno de cuyos miembros había estudiado y aceptado la Fe Bahá’í. Fueron algunos de los miembros fanáticos de esta familia quienes atacaron al Sr. Mihdí-Nizhád, un bahá’í prominente y activo.

La policía preparó un expediente de evidencias concerniente al crimen y lo envió al fiscal. Sin embargo, aparentemente el fiscal fue notificado de antemano por familiares de los asesinos, quienes posiblemente lo amenazaron. Como resultado, el fiscal se marchó antes ‎quel que el‎ expediente llegara a su despacho, instruyendo a su subordinado de rehusar aceptar el expediente, con el pretexto de que el fiscal había pedido licencia y se había marchado. Mientras tanto, la policía, que correctamente había preparado el expediente, debió haber recibido instrucciones posteriormente. Como consecuencia, cuando se les devolvió expediente, indicaron que no se tomaría ninguna acción, e incluso ‎advertierón advirtieron‎ a la familia del Sr. Mihdí-Nizhád dejar el asunto.

Su familia, a pesar de todo, no se ha rendido en sus esfuerzos por continuar la apelación, aunque es sumamente peligroso y hay muy pocas posibilidades de dar justicia a los asesinos.

El Sr. Habíbu’lláh Muhtadía, de 70 años de edad, un oficial jubilado del ejército y graduado en leyes, quien estuvo fuera del país durante la Revolución, regresó a Iran después de la Revolución para tomar posesión de sus propiedades y prevenir que le fueran confiscadas. Sin embargo, fue arrestado inmediatamente después de haber vendido una de sus propiedades en Iran, y le quitaron las ganancias de la venta. Fue encarcelado por cinco años, y más tarde todas sus otras propiedades fueron confiscadas. Después de su liberación, él prosiguió su caso con las autoridades para tratar de conseguir las propiedades que injustamente le fueron expropiadas. El 27 de agosto murió instantáneamente de un golpe a la cabeza.

Aparentemente, ataques similares están siendo perpetrados por elementos fanáticos, alentados por la falta de acción de parte del Gobierno. Ellos están seguros que a pesar de que el crimen se descubra, ningún musulmán será castigado por la ley si el crimen que ha cometido es contra un bahá’í.

Con cariñosos saludos bahá’ís,

Por el Departamento de Secretaría

Casa Universal de Justicia

31 de octubre de 1986

400 asisten a conferencia anual de jóvenes

Recientemente, cerca de 400 jóvenes, la mayoría del area sur de los Estados Unidos, asistieron a la conferencia anual de jóvenes en Disney World en Orlando, Florida, del 26 al 30 de diciembre.

El tema de la conferencia era: La Juventud Bahá’í: Dedicando su Vida al Servicio.

Algunos de los oradores eran: el miembro del Cuerpo Continental de Consejeros, el Sr. Robert Harris; la Dra. Jane Faily, miembro de la Asamblea Nacional de Canadá; y varios jóvenes, entre ellos, Layli Miller y Layli Radpour.

Algunos de los tópicos cubiertos durante la conferencia fueron: Pionerismo, Viajes de Enseñanza, el Fondo Nacional y el Plan de 6 Años. 92 jóvenes contribuyeron $1,400 al Fondo Nacional.

Esta conferencia brindó la oportunidad para todos los jóvenes que asistieron para conocerse unos a otros y para estudiar a fondo el Plan de 6 Años y pensar cómo poder ayudar cumplir las metas del Plan.

Muchos de los jóvenes prometieron continuar apoyando los proyectos de enseñanza, contribuir al Fondo Nacional, leer de las Sagradas Escrituras e ir de pioneros.

Al final de la conferencia, todos los jóvenes fueron de enseñanza a Disney World y a Epcot Center. Todos los que asistieron disfrutaron mucho la conferencia y esperan ansiosamente la próxima.

Orange County Bahá’ís given peace award

As a result of their contributions toward organizing last year’s United Nations Day festivities, the Bahá’ís of Orange County, California, were chosen with a small number of other organizations to receive the 1986 Year of Peace Award from the Coastline chapter of the UN Association.

The Bahá’ís accepted the award, an illustrated history of UN peace-keeping forces around the world, at the Coastline chapter’s annual meeting February 8.

The citation for the award reads: “Initiated in 1986—the Year of Peace—this award is offered annually as an ongoing observance of the International Year of Peace to local organizations in recognition of their significant contribution for the work of the United Nations toward the realization of world peace and justice.”

ESTUPENDA ACTIVIDAD DE ENSEÑANZA

FIESTAS DEL SOL EN MEXICALI

La Comunidad Bahá’í de Mexicali, B.C., puso por tercera ocasión un “STAND” de la Fe Bahá’í en las fiestas del Sol, feria anual en esa ciudad.

Nacional Espiritual.

Adicionalmente ésta comunidad en el transcurso de éstos días hizo la entrega de 62 ejemplares de la Promesa de la Paz Mundial a las autoridades Federales y Estatales de la ciudad.

La calidad de la exposición va mejorando notablemente. En esta ocasión recibieron apoyo de las localidades del otro lado de la frontera y del miembro del cuerpo auxiliar Francisco Chiu, quien estuvo allí una semana de las dos que duró la feria.

Asistieron unas 70,000 personas y unas 7,000 entraron al stand, repartiéndose más de 3,000 folletos diversos.

Los amigos de Mexicali construyeron totalmente el stand con materiales de madera, lo cual fue un enorme esfuerzo.

Amigos, ¿No podemos hacer nosotros en otras partes? Pediremos guías a nuestra amada Institución Asamblea

¡FELICIDADES! [Page 33]Bahá’í Distribution Service 415 Linden Avenue Wilmette, IL 60091 800-323-1880 312-251-1854 (in Illinois)

Price List: April 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

Title	Type	Price
‘Abdu’l-Bahá in London	HC	$13.50
Advent of Divine Justice	HC	12.00
Advent of Divine Justice	SC	8.00
Call to the Nations	HC	6.50
Citadel of Faith	HC	12.00
Constitution: Universal House of Justice	SC	1.50
ENG/PER/ARA: Fire Tablet/Holy Mariner	HC	17.50
Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh	SC	1.50
Foundations of World Unity	HC	10.00
Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh	HC	14.25
Gleanings--British Edition	HC	12.95
Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh	PS	3.75
God Passes By	HC	TBA
God Passes By	SC	TBA
Hidden Words of Bahá’u’lláh	HC	6.00
Hidden Words of Bahá’u’lláh	SC	3.50
Hidden Words--British Edition	HC	3.50
Hidden Words--British Edition	SC	12.95
Kitáb-i-Íqán	PS	3.75
Kitáb-i-Íqán--British Edition	SC	7.95
Light of Divine Guidance	HC	21.00
Light of Divine Guidance, Volume 2	HC	16.00
Memorials of the Faithful	HC	10.00
Messages from the Universal House of Justice	HC	9.00
Messages from the Universal House of Justice	SC	4.00
Paris Talks	SC	5.00
Prayers and Meditations	HC	14.95*
Prayers and Meditations--British Edition	HC	11.00
Prayers and Meditations	PS	3.75*
Proclamation of Bahá’u’lláh	HC	7.50
Proclamation of Bahá’u’lláh	SC	3.00
Promise of World Peace--Deluxe Edition	HC	10.00#
Promise of World Peace--Illustrated Summary	SC	1.75
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	.75
Promised Day Is Come	HC	8.00
Promulgation of Universal Peace	HC	16.00
Secret of Divine Civilization	HC	11.50
Selected Writings of Bahá’u’lláh	HC	11.00
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	6.50
Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá	LT	6.50
Selections from the Writings of the Báb	HC	10.50
Selections from the Writings of the Báb	LT	6.50
Seven Valleys and Four Valleys	HC	6.00
Seven Valleys and Four Valleys	SC	3.50
Some Answered Questions	HC	14.00
Some Answered Questions	PS	3.75
Synopsis and Codification of Kitáb-i-Aqdas	HC	2.50
Tablet to the Christians & An Appreciation	SC	2.00*
Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh	HC	12.50
Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh	LT	6.50
Tablets of the Divine Plan	SC	5.00
To the Peoples of the World	SC	5.95
Traveler's Narrative	HC	10.00
Traveler's Narrative	SC	5.00
Unfolding Destiny	HC	28.50
Wellspring of Guidance	HC	9.00
Wellspring of Guidance	SC	4.00
World Order of Bahá’u’lláh	HC	11.00
World Order of Bahá’u’lláh	SC	6.50
Writings of Bahá’u’lláh--A Compilation	HC	19.95*

Compilations

Title	Type	Price
America's Spiritual Destiny	SC	2.50
Ascension of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá	SC	2.00
Bahá’í DayBook	SC	3.75
Bahá’í Marriage and Family Life	SC	2.75
Bahá’í Meetings/the 19 Day Feast	SC	2.00
Bahá’í Prayers	HC	7.50
Bahá’í Prayers--British Edition	HC	5.00
Bahá’í Prayers	SC	3.75
Bahá’í Prayers and Holy Writings	SC	2.50
Bahá’í Readings--Leather	HC	10.00
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	1.50
Consultation Compilation	SC	1.50
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	1.75
Excellence in All Things	SC	2.00
Family Life Compilation	SC	2.50
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	9.00
Inspiring the Heart	SC	4.50
Living the Life	SC	2.25
Local Spiritual Assembly	SC	.50
Mighty River	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
Power of Divine Assistance--British	SC	2.50
Power of Unity	SC	7.95
Prayers and Thoughts for Peace	SC	2.00
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: A Cardinal Bahá’í Virtue	SC	TBA
Universal House of Justice	SC	3.50
Unrestrained As the Wind	SC	7.95
Unto Him Shall We Return	SC	7.95
Waging Peace	SC	7.95
Women Compilation	SC	2.00
Words of God	SC	1.00

General Titles

Title	Type	Price
All Flags Flying	HC	20.00*
All Flags Flying	SC	10.00
Another Song, Another Season	SC	2.00
Báb: Herald of the Day of Days	HC	14.95
Babí and Bahá’í Religions--Smith	HC	19.95*
Babí 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	3.00
Bahá’í References to Judaism, etc.	SC	11.95
Bahá’í Studies Notebook: Conference on Health	SC	6.50
Bahá’í Studies Notebook: Marriage and Family	SC	6.50
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: King of Glory	HC	14.00
Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era	HC	11.00
Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era	SC	3.50*
Bahá’u’lláh: The Word Made Flesh	SC	5.95
Beyond Dismantlement	SC	1.50
Christ and Bahá’u’lláh	SC	3.95
Christianity of Jesus	HC	7.00
Circle of Equality (working title)	SC	9.95*
Circle of Peace	SC	9.95
Circle of Unity	SC	9.95
Concordance to the Hidden Words	SC	2.50
Consultation: Lamp of Guidance (special price)	HC	7.95
Crown of Beauty	SC	11.95
Daily Lessons Received at ‘Akká	SC	6.00
Dawn-Breakers--British Edition	HC	14.00
Dawn Over Mount Hira	SC	2.00
Dawning Place	HC	21.95
Dawning Place	SC	13.50
Dawning Place of the Pacific	SC	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	HC	11.00
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
Fire on the Mountain Top	SC	2.50
For the Good of Mankind	HC	10.95
Four on an Island	SC	5.95
From Copper to Gold	SC	10.95
From Strength to Strength	SC	5.95
George Townshend	SC	12.95
God Loves Laughter	SC	6.95
Golden Rule	HC	13.95
Golden Rule	SC	5.95
He Loved and Served	SC	7.95
Imperishable Dominion	SC	11.95
In Galilee	HC	7.95
In Search of Nirvana	SC	5.95
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	HC	26.50
Lidia: Daughter of Esperanto	SC	11.95
Light of Bahá’u’lláh	SC	3.00
Light Shineth in Darkness	HC	3.00
March of the Institutions	SC	5.95
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
Miracles and Metaphors	SC	8.95
Mission of Bahá’u’lláh	HC	10.95
Munírih Khánum: Memoirs and Letters	HC	8.95
Munírih Khánum: Memoirs and Letters	SC	8.95
Mothers, Fathers, and Children	SC	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
Power of the Covenant, Part 1	SC	2.00
Power of the Covenant, Part 2	SC	2.00
Prayer: A Bahá’í Approach	HC	9.95
Prayer: A Bahá’í Approach	SC	4.95
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
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	HC	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
Stories from the Delight of Hearts	SC	8.95
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	14.95
Teaching the Bahá’í Faith	SC	6.95
Ten Days in the Light of ‘Akká	SC	6.00
These Things Shall Be	HC	2.00*
Thief in the Night	SC	3.95
Thoughts: Education for Peace	HC	19.95
Thoughts: Education for Peace	SC	11.95
To Move the World	SC	8.50
To a Seeker	SC	5.95
Touchstone of Sincerity	SC	6.50
Tristan	HC	15.95*
Tristan	SC	7.95*
239 Days	HC	10.00
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
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	HC	10.00

Children and Youth

Title	Type	Price
Ali's Dream	HC	3.95
Anthology for the Bahá’í Child	HC	3.00
B. J. and the Language of the Woodland	SC	3.75
Bahá’í Principles for Children	SC	2.00
Birth of the Bahá’í Faith	SC	1.00
Blessed Is the Spot	HC	8.95*
Diamond in the Darkness	SC	3.50
Dragons of Rizvania	HC	8.95
Fly Away Home	SC	3.95
From Behind the Veil	SC	3.75
God and His Messengers	SC	5.95*
Gueba 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
Nine Holy Days	SC	3.50
O God, Guide Me	SC	3.75
O God, My God	HC	6.00
Pokka Stories	SC	2.00
Prayers for Children	SC	1.00
The Promise #1	SC	5.00
The Promise #2	SC	5.00
The Promise #3	SC	TBA
Quddús	SC	3.50

[Page 34]Refuge and the Cave SC 5.50 Remember My Days SC 4.509 SPN: Sinopsis y Codification Kitáb-1-Aqdas SC 3.50 SPN: Tablas de Bahá’u’lláh SC 6.00 Remember the Rainbow SC 3.95 Second Birth HC 8.00

Pamphlets, Cards and Folders

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Foreign Language

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new from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust

THE PROMISE OF WORLD PEACE A Statement by the Universal House of Justice

10/$550 packaged in tens

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■designed to fit into a woman's purse, a man's jacket pocket, and a No. 10 envelope ■ideal for handy reference and for giving away

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• Price valid only in the United States

[Page 35]

10 YEARS AGO

A national Hazíratu’l-Quds for Bermuda, purchased with help from the U.S. Bahá’í community, is dedicated February 26 in Hamilton.

The U.S. is represented at the ceremony by Glenford E. Mitchell, secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly. Also present, representing the Continental Board of Counselors, is Auxiliary Board member Katherine McLaughlin.

More than 100 people attend the dedication including Al Gutteridge, speaker of the Bermudian legislature, and the Rev. Ryan Hennessey, bishop of the Roman Catholic Church, whose decision it was to sell the one-story structure, owned by the Church, to the Bahá’ís. ...

The Universal House of Justice releases a volume of the Writings of the Báb, thus completing one of its goals for the Five Year Plan.

Selections from the Writings of the Báb is the first comprehensive selection of His Writings to be published in English.

Previously, Shoghi Effendi translated passages from the Writings of the Báb which can be found in God Passes By, The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, and Epistle to the Son of the Wolf. ...

Construction of the permanent Seat of the Universal House of Justice begins February 17 as the first concrete is poured for the foundation level.

A contract for construction of the main structure is signed January 5; at that time it is reported that shipments of Italian marble for the five and one-half story building have begun arriving in the Holy Land.

Project engineers have set April 1979 as a target for completion of the main structure, which the Universal House of Justice says is the greatest single undertaking of the Five Year Plan. ...

Bahá’í schools are being established across the country to help meet the goal of the Five Year Plan that children be included in Bahá’í community life.

The National Education Office says it has received more than 250 requests for help in setting up local schools, and more requests continue to arrive. ...

Meanwhile, the National Education Office reports that it has trained 129 Bahá’ís as consultants to meet with communities that are interested in starting Bahá’í schools for children or upgrading existing programs. ...

In the 18 months since it was launched, 451 local Spiritual Assemblies have completed training offered by the Assembly Development Program. Another 57 Assemblies are currently being trained.

The goal of the program is to help Assemblies improve their ability to guide the growth of their communities and to organize the affairs of the Faith in their localities. ...

Margaret Danner, a Bahá’í who is one of the country’s most widely anthologized black poets, is one of several talented people whose works are displayed February 26 during Afro-American Day at the Bahá’í House of Worship. ...

Letters

from page 3

completely forgotten to wash the car regularly, and now look at it!

Distracted by less important things, I had forgotten to pay attention to what was going on. So, I got out my water bucket (wallet), filled it from the faucet (bank) and headed for the “Tree of Life.”

It was the first watering in a long time, and almost immediately the tree started to perk up and look alive—even my neighbors smiled at me and said “hello” again.

A friend came by and asked if he could clean and wax the car. “Your tree is beginning to look alive again,” he said. “What did you do to it?”

“I watered it,” I replied, “and I’m going to keep on watering it on a regular basis.”

“You know,” he said, “I believe that this tree will keep us alive in the years to come if it has regular feeding and watering. It will last a lifetime.”

I smiled and nodded. The tree rustled its leaves and made a singing sound of contentment. Alive again. Wow!

Joe Gallagher Hayward, California

Can’t ‘outgrow’ Guardian

To the Editor:

I was surprised to read in a recent District newsletter that “times have changed and some of the things written by Shoghi Effendi have been outgrown ...”

We live at the beginning of a cycle that is to last for 5,000 centuries and an era “of at least a thousand years’ duration” (God Passes By, p. 100).

There have been three Central Figures in this era, and a fourth, Shoghi Effendi, who is closest to all of them and to whose generalship we owe the establishment of the Universal House of Justice in 1963.

We do not “outgrow” the writings of such a man. They cannot be abrogated, except for “some former ruling laid down as a temporary necessity ...” (Bahá’í News, July 1947).

We need only read The Advent of Divine Justice to see how far ahead the Guardian was of the whole world.

Of Shoghi Effendi, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá says in His Will and Testament, “Well is it with him that seeketh the shelter of his shade that shadoweth all mankind.”

Marzieh Gail San Francisco, California

Help for ‘Peace Torch’

To the Editor:

The UNICEF Peace Torch had traveled to 45 countries and was due in Brasilia, Brazil, late last November.

As Brasilia is the capital of Brazil, UNICEF contacted the various embassies and invited them to send delegations of children dressed in national costume to take part in the Peace Torch ceremony. The response was almost nil.

The Escola das Nações (School of the Nations), a Bahá’í-administered elementary school of 250 children in Brasilia, was then mentioned to UNICEF and one phone call rallied the school on three days’ notice.

The Bahá’í teachers mobilized, completely learning the Peace Torch anthem in English and translating it into Portuguese. Parents were notified to have their children ready for this national peace celebration.

On Saturday morning, November 29, 40 children in their national costumes and 100 more dressed in white, all students at the School of the Nations, stood in front of the Congress buildings in downtown Brasilia and participated in the UNICEF ceremony, receiving the Peace Torch and freeing the “dove of peace.”

This important peace event was on prime time television nationwide, and newspapers across the country also covered it.

Rosemary M. Slavik Edwardsville, Illinois

Are ‘all men equal’?

To the Editor:

I often buy small-size books, commentaries on the Faith, that are affordable for giving to seekers.

One, recently written by two of our dear friends in England, is The Bahá’í Faith with an attractive glossy picture of the Shrine of the Báb on the cover.

There is much to say in the book’s favor, such as the photos and the candid discussion of what constitutes proper sexual conduct (pages 54-55).

However, on page 47 we read that “all men are equal in God’s sight ...” This is in error.

I would refer the authors to Gleanings, p. 187, where Bahá’u’lláh tells us, “Let no one imagine that by Our assertion that all created things are the signs of the revelation of God is meant that—God forbid—all men, be they good or evil, pious or infidel, are equal in the sight of God.”

Note the emphasis placed on this. Wouldn’t it be opposed to justice if it were otherwise?

If there is a second printing of this book, and I hope there will be, I also hope that this will be corrected; likewise, if I am in error, would someone please set me straight?

Pat Knoebel Las Cruces, New Mexico

More variety needed

To the Editor:

I am writing in response to the excellent letters from Alice Dudley (October ’86) and Theodore Heizer (January) about the problems and concerns of “non-affluent” Bahá’ís. I have some suggestions to offer as a remedy for this situation.

First, I wish to say that I have been a Bahá’í since 1970 and have lived in seven Bahá’í communities. In each of them I have noticed that the “active Bahá’ís” are invariably affluent and “college educated” while the “inactive Bahá’ís” are poor and often haven’t completed high school.

In my opinion, the main reason the problem exists is that the various Assemblies and committees are composed largely of Bahá’ís who are either wealthy or college graduates; as a result, there are frequent meetings and expensive conferences, which indicates that the members reflect their particular value system and upbringing rather than the Bahá’í teaching about the elimination of all prejudices including those of “class” and education.

Now, some suggestions on how to bring about greater unity.

First, it is imperative that the “non-affluent” Bahá’ís be on Assemblies and committees to promote effective consultation as well as a diversity of activities such as Bahá’í softball or bowling leagues, etc.

Second, a survey should be made of Bahá’í Assemblies to determine their racial and economic makeup, since the “inactive” believers have told me on many occasions that they are at a disadvantage in dealing with administrative matters.

Third, it would be wise and unique to have a “workers’ affairs committee” to be informed about the values and attitudes of the non-affluent Bahá’ís and to help integrate them more fully into the mainstream of the American Bahá’í community.

If we as Bahá’ís fail to bring the divergent elements of the Bahá’í community together, what does the future hold?

John R. Simmons Cleveland, Ohio

UN and ‘Amerika’

To the Editor:

I must take exception to the note (February) regarding the broadcast of “Amerika” on ABC-TV. There was a strong implication, I felt, that Bahá’ís should be critical of the portrayal of United Nations forces in that mini-series.

“Amerika” was intended as pure entertainment, not as any kind of scholarly effort or educational documentary. As such, the writers certainly were free to use their imaginations in any way they wished to develop a story line.

Bahá’í’s should remember that the UN is not a divine institution, nor does it function particularly well as an instrument of peace or well-being for the world.

Its shockingly anti-democratic and anti-Western tendencies (especially in the last few years) have greatly undermined any ethical underpinning it may once have had when formed as a moral and social force among nations.

To be so much in awe of its high-sounding principles (especially when they are so routinely discarded in much of its everyday operations) as to be unwilling to tolerate criticism of it, is ludicrous.

Bahá’í’s should place their trust in Bahá’í institutions and teachings, and try never to lose objectivity, criticality or open-mindedness about any subject, no matter how well-meaning it may be (or try to be). It is only through such means that we will prove ourselves worthy of the gifts Bahá’u’lláh has sent us.

Jeffrey Neil Burch Lexington, Kentucky

Insurance for Funds

To the Editor:

In the February issue of The American Bahá’í, Craig Loehle of Aiken, South Carolina, offered some valuable tips for saving money. I agree with all of them except the part about life insurance.

My definition of life insurance is: “the transfer of cash at death to people or institutions we care about.” So if some people feel that their grown children or spouses do not need cash after their death, our Bahá’í Funds will be in definite need.

As to term insurance, I would like to add that Mr. Loehle’s advice could be very well suited to some people; however, since the Bahá’í Funds have a permanent need, permanent life insurance has a special place in our financial planning and goals.

Finally, as an insurance adviser, I might add that individual needs require individual advice.

Kamran Haghpeykar Houston, Texas

IN MEMORIAM

Hazel A. Bailey Puyallup, WA November 26, 1986	Catherine Jefferson Deerfield, IL November 1986	Marguerite Shade San Francisco, CA January 5, 1987
Lizzie Brown McDonough, GA 1985	Vern Kowalke Winter Park, FL Date Unknown	Rubinia Smith Georgetown, TX Date Unknown
Howard Brown Austin, TX January 7, 1987	Ella Menefee Bell Gardens, CA January 3, 1987	Joan Snell Springfield, OR January 16, 1987
James Bunch Ridgeville, SC Date Unknown	Saeed Nahvi Huntington Beach, CA February 1987	Zuhurullah Sobhani New York, NY Date Unknown
Eddie Chaney Chickasha, OK February 3, 1986	Hoosein Nasehi Rockville Centre, NY Date Unknown	Phillips Sweet Mesa, AZ January 10, 1987
Goldena Clark Las Vegas, NV January 25, 1987	Alden J. Pahnke Newark, DE January 2, 1987	Mazel Tate Conyers, GA Date Unknown
Charles C. Coley Washington, DC April 11, 1986	Alma Pearson Apex, NC January 4, 1987	Margaret Teagarden Indianapolis, IN August 15, 1986
Ruby Davis Havana, FL Date Unknown	Luella President Havana, FL Date Unknown	Donald Thompson Ridgeville, SC November 1985
Sarah Davison Urbana, OH Date Unknown	Veni Raj Huntington, NY January 19, 1987	Emma Thomas Duncan, OK December 22, 1986
Anna Fritter Upland, CA January 11, 1987	Juanita Storch Santa Rosa, CA January 26, 1987	Anna Walker Menlo Park, CA October 17, 1985
Irene Gill Shelby, NC October 24, 1986	Harlyn Schott Jr. Eureka, MO February 12, 1987	Daisy White Ridgeville, SC August 1986
Florence Haake San Francisco, CA February 6, 1987

[Page 36]

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.

1. ID Title Full name—Please DO NOT use nicknames 2. ID# Title Full name 3. ID# Title Full name 4. ID# Title Full name

B—NEW RESIDENCE ADDRESS: House/Space #, Street or Description City, State, Zip

C—NEW MAIL ADDRESS: P.O. Box or other Mailing Address 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

We receive extra copies because:

• we do not have the same last name.
• the last names and addresses on our address labels do not match exactly.

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.

We have listed above the full names of all family members as they should appear on the national records, their I.D. numbers, and the corrections so that we will receive only one copy.

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.

‘World at Peace’ theme of panel sponsored by Lompoc Bahá’ís

Dr. Guenther Mayer-Harnisch (standing) moderates a panel discussion on ‘A World at Peace’ during the World Peace Day observance last September 7 sponsored by the Bahá’ís of Lompoc, California. (Photo by Barbara Badger)

"A World at Peace" was the theme of a panel discussion last September 7 sponsored by the Bahá’ís of Lompoc, California, to observe World Peace Day and the UN International Year of Peace.

Panelists were Juana Conrad, a Bahá’í who is the founder of Women for International Peace and Arbitration; James Davidson of the Lompoc Peacekeepers, a local educational organization; the Rev. Earl James of the Lompoc-Santa Maria chapter of the NAACP; and John Kay, president of the Santa Barbara chapter of the United Nations Association.

The panel moderator was Dr. Guenther Mayer-Harnisch, a Bahá’í from Arroyo Grande.

Panelists were given copies of "The Promise of World Peace" for their respective organizations.

Earlier in the week, Corrine Christensen, chairman of the Spiritual Assembly of Lompoc, presented copies of the statement to Lompoc city council members, while Mayor Andrew Salazar of Lompoc signed a proclamation designating September 7 as World Peace Day in the city.

Entertainment at the panel discussion was provided by a group of musicians including Judy Halberg, a Bahá’í from Lompoc J.D.

More than 170 see San Jose present 6th annual Community Service Awards

On January 10, more than 170 people, 40 of whom were not Bahá’ís, attended the San Jose, California, Bahá’í community’s sixth annual Community Service Awards banquet at the Holiday Inn in downtown San Jose.

The theme of this year’s awards was education. The recipients were Dr. Bill Honig, state superintendent of public instruction; Dr. Michael Kirst, professor of education at Stanford University; and the teachers of the state of California.

The keynote speaker, Counselor Wilma Brady, administrator-general of the Bahá’í International Community’s New York office, spoke on "The Role of Education in Promoting World Peace."

The master of ceremonies was Dr. Ron Gilpatrick, superintendent of the Belmont school district and chairman of the Spiritual Assembly of San Jose.

Ms. Zhang Yan of Berkeley gave a delightful musical presentation on the Chinese zheng, a stringed instrument that she has redesigned to increase its musical range.

Dr. Honig, the highest ranking official in California’s elementary and secondary public school system, is a strong advocate of excellence in education who has been instrumental in the reform movement in education throughout the U.S.

Dr. Kirst, a former member of the state board of education, was honored for his services on committees and commissions dealing with excellence in education. He is co-director of PACE (Policy Analysis for California Educators), which provides analyses and assistance to the state’s education decision-makers.

The 180,000 teachers in California were honored for upholding standards of excellence in education in preparing the children for their future role in society. The award was accepted on behalf of the California Teachers Association by Vincent Cortese.

Follow-up activity is being planned to include a program on education for peace in the public schools.

New York program for Religion Day cites race harmony

On January 18, a program dedicated to racial harmony was presented as a World Religion Day observance at the Bahá’í Center in New York City.

The guest speakers were Stephen Collett, the representative to the United Nations of the Friends World Committee for Consultation (Quakers), and Josephine Nichols Holtzschue, a Bahá’í who as an actress has appeared in many theatrical productions, films, and television programs.

The program included readings from Native American holy books as well as from the Bhagavad Gita, the Torah, the Buddhist Sutta-Nipata, the Bible, and the Qur’an, and was closed with the Bahá’í prayer for America.

The Fund Is the Life-Blood of the Faith

National Bahá’í Fund Wilmette, IL 60091

Bahá’ís in Elgin host Unity Feast

On February 7, Bahá’ís and their guests from five Illinois communities gathered for a Unity Feast sponsored by the Bahá’ís of Elgin.

The visitors were from Carpentersville, St. Charles, Elgin Township and Batavia.

A potluck supper was enhanced by the music of Bach’s double concerto (for oboe and violin) rendered by Mrs. Cheryl Dougherty, a Bahá’í from Elgin, and fellow musicians Irma Joyce Thomas and Nonie Detrick, both members of Elgin’s Church of the Brethren.

Selections from the Bahá’í writings were followed by games, magic tricks, and music. Especially enjoyable was a song by two children who recently arrived from Laos, Beny and Bina Chittaphone.

A few days later, Mrs. Dougherty performed again, at the Church of the Brethren, where the topic was "Music in the Church." The congregation heard quotations from Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá on that topic and Bahá’í Louise Waite’s song, "Benediction."

House of Justice praises Esperanto Congress, encourages collaboration

To National Spiritual Assemblies in Europe

Dear Bahá’í Friends,

Inspiring reports have been received at the World Center of the success of the Universal Esperanto Congress in Beijing, China, and of the participation in it of members of the Bahaa Esperanto-Ligo. The next Congress will be held in Warsaw, the capital of Poland and home of Ludwig Zamenhof, the inventor of Esperanto whose daughter, Lidia, was so devoted a follower of Bahá’u’lláh.

We feel that, within the framework of their efforts for the promotion of peace, the Bahá’ís of Europe would do well to increase their collaboration with the Esperanto movement, and we encourage Bahá’ís who feel the urge to assist in this area to learn Esperanto and take an active part in the activities of the movement.

As you know, although both ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and Shoghi Effendi have made it clear that it is by no means certain that Esperanto will eventually be chosen as the international auxiliary language of the world, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá encouraged the friends in the east and the west to learn it as a practical step in the promotion of the concept of the adoption of an international auxiliary language to break down the barriers to understanding between peoples.

Thus, as the followers of Bahá’u’lláh are collaborating with many different individuals and associations in the promotion of projects of economic and social development and toward the establishment of world peace, some of them should make a point of active collaboration with the Esperantists who, they will find, share many ideals with them.

With loving Bahá’í greetings,

The Universal House of Justice September 17, 1986