The American Bahá’í/Volume 19/Issue 7/Text
| ←Previous | The American Bahá’í Volume 19, Issue 7 |
Next→ |
| Return to PDF view |
 | The text below this notice was generated by a computer, it still needs to be checked for errors and corrected. If you would like to help, view the original document by clicking the PDF scans along the right side of the page. Click the edit button at the top of this page (notepad and pencil icon) or press Alt+Shift+E to begin making changes. When you are done press "Save changes" at the bottom of the page. |
Alaska, Canada, U.S. produce unified ‘statement of vision’
Last October, at a meeting held in Canada with the Continental Counselors resident in Alaska, Canada and the United States and the National Spiritual Assemblies of Canada and the United States, a joint statement was prepared of our vision of the challenge to raise a major share of the JSunds needed to complete the Arc on Mount Carmel and to initiate entry by troops on the North American continent. Ina spirit of unified action, the National Spiritual Assembly of Alaska has voiced its support and become a co-signer to the statement of the institutions to focus attention on the historic initiative of the Universal House of Justice.
°
To the Bahá’ís resident in Alaska, Canada and the United States Dear Bahá’í Friends:
The Universal House of Justice has notified us that we
have reached a turning point in human history and a new stage in the development of the Cause of God. Through the sacrifices of the Baha’is in Iran, the Faith of Baha’u’ll4h has emerged from obscurity. With its emergence, the Baha’i community must prepare to assume new responsibilities.
The House of Justice has directed us to proceed without delay to raise funds to complete the construction of the remaining buildings of the Arc at the World Center of the Faith, ‘‘the metropolis of the Kingdom of God on Earth.”? In its letter of August 31, 1987, addressed to the Baha’is throughout the world, the House of Justice states, “*..,erecting the remaining buildings of the Arc will bring into being a vastly augmented World Center structure which will be capable of meeting the challenges of coming centuries and of the tremendous growth of the Baha’i com munity which the beloved Guardian has told us to expect.’”
In a message to the Baha’i world dated November 27, 1954, Shoghi Effendi described the world-shaping effects of the completion of the Arc on Mount Carmel:
“The ultimate completion of this stupendous undertaking will mark the culmination of the development of a world-wide divinely-appointed Administrative Order whose beginning may be traced as far back as the concluding years of the Heroic Age of the Faith.
“This vast and irresistible process, unexampled in the spiritual history of mankind, and which will synchronize with two no less significant developments—the establishment of the Lesser Peace and the evolution of Bahda’{ national and local institutions—the one outside and the other within the Baha’i world—will attain its final consumma See VISION page 2
The e 9°70 merican Baha’
‘The real treasury of man is his knowledge. ’—Bahá’u’lláh
Volume 19, No.
te July 1988
Two former members of House of Justice to travel and teach in U.S.
When two former members of the Universal House of Justice, David Hofman and H. Borrah Kavelin, accepted an invitation from the National Spiritual Assembly to travel across the U.S. to help with teaching efforts and regional conferences, they opened the door to a wonderful opportunity for deepened understanding of;many aspects of the Faith for believers in this country.
Mr. Hofman and Mr. Kavelin will speak at the 12 conferences planned by the National Assembly, at sites to be determined, to present the challenge of complet See VISIT page 4
At 79th Baha’?i National Convention
‘Entry by troops!’ delegates’ desire
“Entry by troops!’’ was the theme and rallying cry as delegates and guests gathered May 19-22 at the Baha’i House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois, for the 79th Baha’i National Convention.
The Riḍván 1988 message from the Universal House of Justice, with its call for teaching ‘‘on a scale and of a quality, a variety, and intensity outstripping all current efforts,’’ was the basis for intensive consultation on the Six Year Plan goals of growth, integration and development.
As a part of that consultation, the National Spiritual Assembly introduced a new nationwide
oes
.
| 8
Pa HIGHLY PLEASED ANNOUNCE COMPLETION AGREEMENT WITH OWNERS NEW SOUTHGATE CEMETERY PURCHASE LARGE AREA ADJACENT RESTING PLACE BELOVED GUARDIAN. OFFERING PRAYERS GRATITUDE SACRED THRESHOLD OPPORTUNITY ENSURE PROTECTION PRECINCTS HALLOWED SPOT.
U
VERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE MAY 12, 1988
teaching plan, conceived during April’s sixth International Convention in Haifa, which was enthusiastically endorsed by the delegates.
On Saturday morning, the 155
Bi The Louis G. Gregory Unity Choir entertains delegates and
delegates present at the Convention assembled in Foundation Hall at the House of Worship to elect the members of the National Assembly for 1988-89. An additional 10 ballots were received by
guests at the 79th Bahá’í National Convention held May 19-22 at the
and goal
mail.
Those elected to serve on the National Assembly are William Davis, Alberta Deas, Robert Hen See CONVENTION page 17
eet Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois, (Story on page 16)
Resolution urges Iran to respect human rights
On May 23, U.S. Senators Christopher Dodd of Connecticut and John Heinz of Pennsylvania introduced Senate Concurrent Resolution 120 urging the government of Iran to respect the human rights of members of the Baha’i Faith in that country.
The resolution, which was cosponsored by 33 other senators from both parties, was referred to the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations.
The text of the resolution and Sen. Dodd’s remarks were published in the Congressional Record on May 23.
“This is a particularly opportune day for the submission of this concurrent resolution,”’ said Sen. Dodd. “‘May 23, 1988, marks the 144th anniversary of the founding of the Baha’i Faith.
“‘Baha’is throughout the 160 countries and territories where they reside celebrate this day as
one of the holiest of the year. ‘Today they reflect on the past decade, when the successors of those clergymen (who persecuted the early Baha’is) continue to torment the small law-abiding Baha’i
community, many of whose members are descendants of those who were killed 140 years ago.
“At the time that our country is about to complete the process of
See RESOLUTION page 13
International Teaching Center appointed
REJOICE ANNOUNCE APPOINTMENT COUNSELOR MEMBERS INTERNATIONAL TEACHING CENTER FOR FIVE-YEAR TERM BEGINNING MAY 23, 1988: DR. FARZAM ARBAB, DR. MAGDALENE CARNEY, MR. HARTMUT GROSSMANN, MR. MAS’UD KHAMSI, MRS. LAURETTA KING, MR. DONALD ROGERS, MRS. ISOBEL SABRI, MRS. JOY STEVENSON, MR. PETER VUYIYA. VIEW SUPREME IMPORTANCE ACCELERATION TEACHING WORK THIS STAGE FORMATIVE AGE, NUMBER COUNSELOR MEMBERS NOW RAISED TO NINE. EXPRESS PROFOUND GRATITUDE MR. ‘AZIZ YAZD{ AND MISS ANNELIESE BOPP FOR THEIR ASSIDUOUS DEVOTED SELF-SACRIFICING SERVICES TEACHING CENTER OVER SO MANY YEARS. UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE MAY 18, 1988
�[Page 2]
2 / The American Baha’i / July 1988
‘Vision’
from page 1
tion, in the Golden Age of the Faith, through the raising of the standard of the Most Great Peace, and the emergence, in the plenitude of its power and glory, of the focal Center of the agencies constituting the World Order of Baha’u’llah.
“The final establishment of this seat of the future Baha’i World Commonwealth will signalize at once the proclamation of the sovereignty of the Founder of our Faith and the advent of the Kingdom of the Father repeatedly lauded and promised by Jesus Christ.
“This World Order will, in turn, in the course of successive Dispensations of the Baha’i Cycle, yield its fairest fruit through the birth and flowering of a civilization, divinely inspired, unique in its features, world-embracing in its scope, and fundamentally spiritual in its character—a civilization destined as it unfolds to derive its initial impulse from the spirit animating the very institutions which, in their embryonic state, are now stirring in the womb of the present Formative Age of the Faith.’”
Seventy-six years ago, when “‘Abdu’l-Bahá laid the cornerstone of the first Mashriqu’l-Adhkár of the West, He stated that its founding would ‘mark the inception of the Kingdom of God on earth’”’ and would be ‘‘conducive to the unity and oneness of the belieyers.”’ The building of the Temple, He elaborated, was the ‘most important of all things’’ because it “is the spiritual foundation’’ for “all manner of advancement and progress in the world of humanity.”
Inglewood to host annual memorial to Thornton Chase
On Sunday, September 25, the Baha’i community of Inglewood, California, will host the annual Thornton Chase Memorial at Inglewood Park Cemetery.
Mr. Chase became a Baha’i in June 1894, some 50 years after the beginning of the Baha’i Era and one year after the Faith was first mentioned publicly in the U.S. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá confirmed that he was the first American Baha’i.
Mr. Chase once wrote to a friend:
“TI cannot doubt that some of the ‘Invisible Light’ has shone on my pathway and all that I can do is to try to let a little of that light reflect on others.
“Moments of inner joyousness that Light brings, are worth years of ‘Valley’ living. To breathe once the air of the mountain top is to ever long for the mountains thereafter.””
Each year, the Inglewood community hosts the Thornton Chase Memorial and warmly invites all Bahá’ís to attend.
The American Bahd’{ community at that time consisted of a few thousand believers scattered throughout the continent. They were overwhelmed by the magriitude of the task. But history records that their persistent efforts, through two world wars and a global economic depression, were triumphant, and that the spiritual energies released with the completion of each successive stage of the Temple contributed to the growth and development of our community.
Likewise, the House of Justice has stated that as each stage of the Arc is completed, spiritual energies will be released that will advance the progress of the Baha’f international community and move the world closer to peace.
Dear friends, the Continental Counselors resident in North America and the National Spiritual Assemblies of Alaska, Canada and the United States call on you, the co-inheritors of the Tablets of the Divine Plan, to arise to meet this challenge. Our communities have been especially blessed and invested with a world mission by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. With the Six Year Plan as our charter, let us advance in all fields of service, and let us make an unequaled contribution to the completion of the Are.
We call on the institutions and agencies of the Faith which, at every level, hold the responsibility to prepare the communities for change and growth, to intensify the campaign of unified action, and to beseech the Lord with ardent prayers to guide our united efforts and make us wise and strong.
We call particularly on the individual believers, who were addressed by the beloved Master as “apostles of Bahd’u’ll4h.’’ The success of this enterprise depends on you more than it does on any institution or agency of the Faith. Whatever skill you possess, whatever resource you have to contribute, large or small, homespun or professional, now is the time for you to arise in sacrificial endeavor.
The perfection of the human soul does not occur in isolation, it takes place as the individual participates in the process of serving his Lord. As you consecrate your life to the service of His Cause and the advancement of civilization, your relationship with Baha’u’llah will grow stronger. Your soul will be refined and your capacity to render further service expanded. The progress of the Faith and the movement of mankind toward its own salvation depend to a large extent on your exertions as individual Baha’is.
During the final year of his ministry, Shoghi Effendi wrote to the Baha’is of North America challenging every individual believer to arise and advance the Cause toward the fulfillment of its destiny. Neither the local nor national institutions, he explained, ‘‘no matter how elaborate their plans or persistent their appeals,” nor “even the Guardian himself”’
the U.S.A.
‘The American Bahd’{ (USPS 042-430) is published monthly by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United States, 536 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, IL 60091. Postmaster: Send address changes to Management Information Systems, Ba‘hd’ National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. Editor: Jack Bowers. Associate editor: Laura E. Hildreth. The American Bahá’í welcomes news, letters and other items of interest from individuals and the various institutions of the Faith. Articles should be written in a clear and concise manner; color or black-and-white glossy photographs should be included whenever possible. Please address all materials to The Editor, The American Bahá’í, Wilmette, IL 60091. Copyright © 1988 by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United States. World rights reserved. Printed in
could ‘‘supplant him (the individual Baha’i) in the discharge of this task.”
He described his longing to see the individual assess his character, consult his conscience, and shed the attachments which hold him back. This ardent desire he called “the prayer I never cease to. uttenseesaa
We conclude with these words of Shoghi Effendi addressed to the Bahá’ís of North America:
“The prizes within the reach of this community are truly ines timable. Much will depend on the reaction of the rank and file of the believers to the plea now addressed to them with all the fervor of my soul.
“To act, and act promptly and decisively, is the need of the present hour and their inescapable duty. That the American Baha’i community may, in this one remaining field, where so much is at stake, and where the needs of the Faith are so acute, cover itself with glory that will outshine the splendor of its past exploits in the
far-flung territories of the globe, is a prayer which I never cease to utter in my continual supplications to Baha’u’ll4h.””
With loving Baha’i greetings, Continental Board of Counselors resident in North America National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Alaska National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Canada National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States
On April 30, the Bahá’ís of Stevens Point, Wisconsin, had this booth during ‘Sister City Day’ at a local shopping mall. A Bahá’í Youth, Joanna Rowe, represents the Faith on the Stevens Point sis
er ih
ter city committee, which has
adopted Rostov, Russia, as its sister community. The Bahá’ís gave
out many peace posters and pamphlets and ‘world citizen’ bal
loons, Pictured at the booth are
(left to right) Stephanie Stokes,
Susan Rowe, Laurel Rowe, Erin
Rahn and Mary Rowe. (Photo by
Terri Rahn)
As era of nation building comes to a close, need for commonwealth of nations becomes apparent
a VIEWPOINT
In its statement on peace released in October 1985, the Universal House of Justice identified a contradiction in human affairs: people have an intense desire for peace, yet believe that humanity is “incorrigibly selfish and aggressive,” and therefore is incapable of achieving peace.
The House of Justice also pointed out the need to reassess the basic assumptions on which this contradiction is based.
One such assumption is, I believe, the entrenched view that “nationhood” is the pinnacle achievement in human organizatioa toward which mankind has long aspired.
Nation building was a useful and important stage in the development of modern day civilization, but not the final one.
Nation building had its high points. It allowed mankind to prosper and develop materially— and it provided large groups of people with relief from the constant fear of attack or at least with some defense in case of attack.
Liberated from the incessant threat of harm, humanity was able to explore its surroundings; develop arts and sciences; and make quantum leaps forward in commerce, agriculture and communication.
The security provided by the nation-state also gave people the Opportunity to develop autonomous governments and the admin
istrative capacity to manage them
effectively.
This stage in human history, unlike any that preceded it, allowed humanity to prosper as it had never prospered before.
However, as nations began to reap the last positive benefits of the era of nation building, they also began to experience negative down-side impacts.
Two such impacts are the unabated competition among nations that ultimately spawned the nuclear arms race, and the evolution of a fragile world economy, the distinguishing features of which are artificial trade barriers and tariffs.
Far from being the crowning diadem of social and political achievement, nation building is characterized by the Baha’i teachings as a necessary but preliminary stage in our social evolution.
The next step in this ongoing evolutionary process is the establishment of a more broadly-based commonwealth of nations, the structure upon which the Most Great Peace can be established.
According to Shoghi Effendi, Baha’u’llah’s Tablet to Queen Victoria outlines clearly the need for ‘“‘the inevitable curtailment of unfettered national sovereignty’’ as a necessary step toward establishing a world commonwealth.
The Guardian also explained that the federation of nations envisioned in the sacred texts of the Faith is not intent on ‘‘the subversion of the existing foundations of society,’’ nor on limiting “sane and intelligent patriotism,”” but seeks rather to broaden society’s loyalties to encompass all
This month’s column, “‘Beyond Nation-Building,’’ was written by Vicentee Ferguson of Jacksonville, Florida.
of humankind.
Speaking of the commonwealth prophesied by Bahda’u’ll4h, the Guardian said, ‘‘...it insists upon the subordination of national impulses and interests to the imperative claims of a unified world.”
The Universal House of Justice states unequivocally that the achievement of autonomy by nearly all countries since World War II signals ‘‘...the completion of the process of nation building...”
Nationalistic tendencies must now give way to greater world consciousness and the development of a world superstate. Beyond this, the Most Great Peace is the zenith toward which humanity is evolving.
It is clear, therefore, that the process of nation building is a milestone in human history. It is not, however, our ultimate organizational goal—world unity is!
The ‘‘oneness of mankind,”’ the Guardian intimated, “‘...(the) final stage in this stupendous evolution, is not only necessary but inevitable. ...””
Need Spanish-speaking Traveling Teachers to visit your community? Contact: National Teaching Committee, Baha'i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. Phone: (312) 869-9039.
= g Baa LETTERS
“The shining spark of truth cometh forth only after the clash of differing “opinions.” —‘Abdu’l-Bahá
The American Bahá’í welcomes letters to the editor on any topic of general interest. The purpose of the “letters’? column is to allow a free and ‘open exchange of ideas and opinions, never to denigrate another’s views or to attack anyone on a personal level. Opinions expressed in these columns are not necessarily those of the National Spiritual Assembly or the editors.
Letters should be as brief as possible (a 250-word maximum is suggested) and are subject to editing for length and style. Please address all letters to the Editor, The American Bahá’í, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.
‘Paper’ Assemblies?
To the Editor:
There is a term used among Bah’fs in this country—‘‘paper Assemblies’”’—with which I have been all too familiar during my eight years as a Baha’i.
Lam quite guilty of having used the term, which I now believe misrepresents the state of the Baha’i communities to which it refers.
I live in South Carolina—a state that I once believed to be the capital of ‘‘paper Assemblies.””
When I moved here a year ago, I contacted the Bahá’ís in Lancaster, expecting, in my arrogance, to have to teach them all about the Baha’i Faith. What a mistake!
Much to my surprise, I found that the native believers have a deep understanding and, most important, appreciation of the Faith. I have learned much more than I could ever have taught!
As my understanding—small as it is—increases, I realize that the annual election of Assemblies in this area serves as a constant reminder of the administrative functioning of the Faith—a candle being kept aflame every year.
Orie day, in every locality, that flame will set afire an entire community as it is now doing in Lancaster.
Because valiant, steadfast souls have been devotedly forming these Assemblies every Ridvan, there is a beacon of light in these communities—something to depend on, something that keeps the fire of the Faith alive.
I have tried to put into words the moving and humbling experience of witnessing the results of Assembly elections and the growth of our beloved Faith here in South Carolina.
I offer only one contribution— that we refer to these elected institutions as “‘light local Spiritual Assemblies’ as we all strive toward a greater understanding of the power of Bahá’u’lláh and the mysteries of His Faith.
Rowena Dalloul Rampersad Fort Lawn, South Carolina
TV spots: a different view
To the Editor:
Some months ago several articles touching on how the Baha’i Faith should portray itself in the mass media appeared in The American Bahá’í.
The television commercial is the quintessential example of oldworld thought and feeling.
Participants in TV commercials are for the most part young, are mostly Caucasian, are not physically handicapped; in fact, they are “beautiful” (around six feet tall but not much taller, etc.).
The viewers, Baha’is as well as non-Baha’fs, like to see this, and the television producers and their clients make a lot of money.
But the Baha’fs must present God’s view of what it means to be human, of human happiness, well-being and dignity, even if it may at first be unpalatable to their hearers.
Thomas Chou Honolulu, Hawaii
We are the alternative
To the Editor:
As members of not only the Baha’i family but the human family as well, we have a responsibility— as I see it—to start building a new World Order in real and tangible ways.
In the past, the generality of Baha’fs (like mainstream Christians) may have felt it was enough simply to espouse a sort of pie-in-thesky/wait-till-you-die religion; but today one of the challenges we’ve been given in the Six Year Plan is to increase our involvement in the life of society.
And in a recent message, the National Spiritual Assembly instructed us to “‘bring about a spiritual revolution in the United States’’ by becoming ‘‘the alternative that people in society at large will turn to ...’”
It is time that we, as Baha’is, stood up and stood out and really made a difference. It’s time to revolutionize the fortunes of humanity!
We have to get our message across to the generality of humankind. And it seems to me that an effective way to do this is not through words alone but through definitive social action, i.e., social and economic development.
People respond positively to social action. Let’s not just fell ’em that peace is economically viable, but demonstrate it through the development of jobs and industry along the lines of a divine economy.
The world is moving ahead, and the Baha’is should be in the vanguard of that movement. Let’s step out of this ‘“‘no-growth rut” we’re in and begin to blaze new trails!
I write this not in judgment of any person or group, but in the hope that it may inspire an interchange of ideas and create a climate for consultation, the result of which will cause those involved to arise in a new spirit of vigor and action.
Robert W. Mitchell Alamogordo, New Mexico
No lack of dedication
To the Editor:
I would like to respond to Amir Venus’s letter (April) under the headline ‘‘ ‘Penny an hour’ for the Fund.””
Amir: what a terrific idea! I think there are many ways to approach the challenge of giving to any and all of the Funds, but I agree that finding a way to. support the completion of the Arc on Mount Carmel is a special task for all of us in the American Baha’i community.
I'd not be tempted, however, to surmise that we lack dedication or the attitude of sacrificial giving. I
think that many of us are really below the poverty level.
This does not mean that we cannot give of what we do have, but sometimes, Amir, it is quite
In my own case, when my income was a fixed $282 a month, it was all but impossible to find even five cents.
Later, when, with the mercy of God aiding me, I had $486 a month to support myself and my child, we were able to pledge $1 each calendar month.
And we were so happy! We asked God to return our pledge to us ten-fold so that we could give more! And do you know what? He did!
We kept asking for more so that we could give more, and now we are able to support ourselves just fine, and make what we consider a large contribution every month.
See? I like your way, too. But sometimes poor folks do not have even 25 cents.
I don’t know how I am going to support the completion of the Arc. But I have a little cottage industry, and if it ever gets humming | intend to give all the profits from it to completion of the Arc. Pray for me, Amir.
Leslie Helmich
Peterborough, New Hampshire
The ABS responds
To the Editor:
In response to Shiva Tavana’s letter (April), the Association for Baha’i Studies’ Executive Committee certainly shares her dismay that there were few women speakers at the Association’s 12th annual Conference at Princeton University last October, and assures Ms. Tavana that this lack was “loudly protested by our Baha’i brothers’? (and sisters) as she hoped it would be.
The Association feels that this community-wide dissatisfaction with perpetuating the status quo is a healthy sign of maturing attitudes in the Baha’i community.
The Association also recognizes that this situation must change, but as an article in our most recent Bulletin points out, there is a need for cooperation from the community in identifying resources and from women in accepting invitations from the Association and preparing presentations of the caliber dictated by the nature of our conference:
“There were also a number of critical comments on and evaluation of certain aspects of the conference, as well as suggestions for improvement.
The American Baha’i / July 1988 / 3
“The vast majority of these comments concerned the relatively number of women and minorities among the presentors at the plenary sesssions of the conference.
“The Association Executive would like to take the opportunity afforded by the present Bulletin to assure members that we have shared (and continue to share) these same concerns and that we have made persistent efforts over the years to solicit greater participation and representation by women and minorities in Association meetings and conferences.
“Nevertheless, we recognize and accept that these efforts, however sincere, have not been sufficient to produce the results we all desire.
“Perhaps two things would help us to fulfill this goal. First, it should be realized that the Executive Committee of the Association has no special knowledge of the human resources abroad in the Baha’i community. With the exception of invited guests and a few invited presentations by Baha’is, the majority of presentations, even at plenary sessions of the annual conference, have been contributed papers.
“‘If those among the minorities and women who are able and willing to make such presentations do not come forward and offer their services, or if someone else does not kindly bring to our attention the existence of such persons, then it will continue to be very difficult for the Executive to identify these capable people and to solicit their participation.
“(Some have already responded to this request by furnishing the Association with a list of persons they know to be competent and capable in this regard, and we are grateful for this.)
“Second, when women or minority persons are approached by the Association and invited to participate, they should make every effort to respond positively.
“The role of the majority is to create a loving and supportive environment that will encourage minority participation, but the natural counterpart to this is the role of the minorities themselves in taking their courage in hand and responding confidently when ee (Bulletin 28, pp.
Like the U.S. Properties Committee, we too welcome recommendations of women to take part in the programs of the Association for Baha’i Studies’ regional, national and international confer ences. Please send suggestions/offers of participation to the Association
for Baha’i Studies, Ontario,
- Canada KIN 7K4.
The Association’s 13th annual Conference will be held October 7-10 in Ottawa, and submissions should be received by August 15.
This year’s theme is ‘‘Toward a Global Civilization: An International Conference on the Spiritual Foundations of Cultural Development,’’ in recognition of the UN Decade on Cultural Development.
Christine Zerbinis, secretary
Association for Bahá’í Studies
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Why not social events?
To the Editor:
Many of us have non-Baha’i friends and relatives who think the Faith is fine for us but have made it clear that they won’t go near any fireside or worship service.
Still, we can let them see what sort of people our Baha’i friends are by taking them to Ayyam-i-Ha or Naw-Rúz parties, picnics, or other social events where there may be a short prayer or two, and that’s all.
Usually we can be confident that anyone speaking at such a gathering will be aware that non-Baha’is are present and that their feelings must be considered, as they understood they were only attending a party.
Please, friends, some of our precious friends and relatives may never join us again if discretion is
not used. M. “Jeff” Jeffries Burlington, Vermont
Let’s ‘B-sharp,’ raise Arc
To the Editor:
As the Faith matures, the promise of peace is drawing near. The Are (our cymbal of peace) is steadily rising as the funds slowly trickle in.
Every contribution, even if it B-minor, can help complete the Are.
There is no need to fret. We in Gainesville, Florida, think we may have come up with a fund-raising plan that could pick up the beat of cash flow and C-major results in building the Arc.
We call it ‘‘Sing for the Fund’’ or “Raising the Arc.’”” Remember “*We Are the World’’? Now think of us, Baha’is who have a message the world is aching to hear.
Some of us are great speakers, while others are better at express See LETTERS page 16
ZORH> oRm<Z0N
New from George Ronald, Publisher
The story of Hasan, who comes to live in the Holy Land in 1914 as the orphaned son of martyred Baha’is. Through conversations with his newly-found family, he discovers the friendship, love and warmth of the Baha’is and comes to understand himself and the Baha’i
Faith.
200 pages, 9 illustrations
Softcover $11.95
(Order trom Bahai Distribution Service
415 LINDEN AVENUE, WILMETTE, IL 60091 TEL 1-800- 999.0019 (r through your local astnbution representative. No postage on the 48 CodigunssLrted States (200 15% Outioe te soa)
‘Orders shipped within
�[Page 4]
4/ The American Baha’i / July 1988
STORIES OF THE MARTYRS
GHULAM-HUSA YN FARHAND
Ghulém-Husayn Farhand was born into a Baha’i family in 1927 in Hamadan, a town in western Tran.
When he was a young man, his family moved to Ahvaz, another town in western Iran, because of the hardships they were experiencing for being Baha’is.
After graduating from high school, Mr. Farhand began working for the National Iranian Oil Company. He was still a young man when his father died, and the responsibility of supporting the family fell on his shoulders. At the age of 25, he was married.
Mr. Farhand served on the local Spiritual Assembly of Ahvaz, and was its treasurer. In 1968 he moved to Tehran, and in 1978 he pioneered to Karaj, a town some 20 miles west of Tehran.
In Karaj, he served as secretary
of the local Spiritual Assembly for a while and later became its chairman. After the Islamic Revolution in 1979, Mr. Farhand was dismissed from his job. To earn a living, he began working at home, doing carpentry and woodwork.
In June 1983, Mr. Farhand was arrested with six other members of the Spiritual Assembly of Karaj.
Later, he was imprisoned in the notorious Evin Prison. For 10 months no one knew the whereabouts of the prisoners.
His wife, who is a Muslim, managed to see him in the prison for the first time the following April. From that time she was allowed to visit him once every few weeks.
On December 9, 1984, Mr. Farhand was executed with five other Baha’is. The news of his martyrdom was given to his family 13 days after the executions, when his wife, sister and oldest son went to the prison to visit him.
Mr. Farhand was a dedicated Baha’i. No matter where he lived, he always considered serving the Faith his first priority.
He lived most of his life in pioneering posts; nonetheless, he never considered himself a pioneer. After the Revolution, he was offered a job with a good salary in Alaska, but he decided to stay in Iran where he thought his services for the Faith were needed.
During his stay in Ahvadz, he taught a number of classes for Baha’i youth, and also supported financially a number of young people.
Although his wife and her relatives were Muslim, he had won their respect for the Cause through his deeds and kind and considerate attitude.
Report from sixth International Convention
A ‘new paradigm of opportunity’ emerges
“A silver lining to the dark picture which has overshadowed most of this century now brightens the horizon. It is discernible in the new tendencies impelling the social processes at work throughout the world, in the evidences of an accelerated trend toward
peace.
“In the Faith of God, it is the growing strength of the Order of Baha’u’llah as its banner rises to more: stately heights. It is a strength that attracts.”
These stirring words from the Ridvan message of the Universal House of Justice were read to the assembled delegates by the Hand of the Cause of God Amatu’l-Bahá Rihiyyih Khánum at the first consultative session of the sixth Baha’i International Convention held April 29-May 2 in Haifa, Israel.
They struck the keynote of the inspired and inspiring message— “a new paradigm of opportunity” has emerged, and ‘‘new prospects for teaching the Cause at all levels of society have unfolded.”
The message continues:
“The present challenge calls for teaching on a scale and of a quality, a variety, and intensity outstripping all current efforts.”
The theme was to recur repeatedly in the consultations of the delegates.
The Convention was officially opened Friday morning, April 29, with prayers in four languages.
Six hundred sixty-three delegates representing 132 of the 148 National Spiritual Assemblies were present in Haifa Auditorium to take part in the election of the Universal House of Justice.
In addition, mail ballots were cast by delegates from the 16 countries who were unable to attend.
The spectacular array of humanity, many wearing national costumes, colored the atmosphere of solemnity as each delegate stepped forward to cast a ballot.
A highlight of the balloting was the presence of two delegates from Cuba, which had never before been represented at an International Convention. They were warmly applauded as they crossed the stage to cast their ballots.
The results of the voting were announced at noon on Saturday, June 30, by the chief teller, Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh, vice-chairman of the U.S. National Spiritual Assembly. The members of the House of Justice are:
‘Ali Nakhjavani, Glenford Mitchell, Hushmand Fatheazam, Ian Semple, Peter Khan, David Ruhe, Hugh Chance, Hooper Dunbar and Adib Taherzadeh.
Of the 1,296 ballots cast, only one was invalid. The members were elected by a total of 7,880 of the 11,655 individual votes cast.
The nine members of the House of Justice were called to the stage as the delegates applauded.
Then wave after wave of sus tained applause swept the auditorium as the two retiring members of the Universal House of Justice, David Hofman and H. Borrah Kavelin, were called to the stage and saluted by the audience of delegates and World Center staff members for their long and dedicated service.
Three other former members of the House of Justice were affectionately called to mind: Charles Wolcott, recently deceased; Amoz Gibson and Lutfu’ll4h Ḥakím, whose daughter and grand-daughter, respectively, were present as delegates to the Convention.
A special sadness coupled with a feeling of pride pervaded the hall as the absence of delegates from Iran was noted.
In paying tribute to the sacrifices and continued suffering of “our brothers and sisters in Iran,” Amatu’l-Bahá Ruhfyyih Khanum announced that a closing prayer would be offered in their memory, and called for an enormous bow! of 120 red roses, a gift from the Baha’js in Iran, to be brought to the center of the stage.
Five of the Hands of the Cause of God were present for the opening session, lending a special dignity and the spiritual force of their high office: Amatu’l-Bahá Rihiyyih Khanum, ‘Ali Akbar Furdtan, Dr. ‘Ali Muhammad Varq4, William Sears and Collis Featherstone.
These dear “remnants of the Guardian” each participated in unique ways during the five days of the Convention.
The topic of Huqtqu’ll4h was addressed by Dr. Varq4 who pointed out that this institution should be seen as a spiritual obligation based on the love of the believer; it is a tangible aspect of the Covenant of God, and it strengthens the relationship between God and man.
The other Hands of the Cause of God contributed their guidance
Complete photographic coverage of the sixth Bahi’s International Convention is on pages 28-29.
on themes dealt with in the Ridvan message. Mr. Sears brought special greetings from those Hands of the Cause who were not Present: Dr. Ugo Giachery, Jalal Khazeh and John Robarts.
From April 30-May 2, all sessions were chaired by Counselors: Dr. Magdalene Carney, International Teaching Center; Zena Sorabjee, Asia; Dr. Wilma Brady, Americas; Joy Stevenson, Australasia; Lucretia Mancho Warren, Africa; and Polin Rafat, Europe.
Under the gilt emblem of the Greatest Name, and occupying the entire center stage, a magnificent, large, full-color aerial photograph featuring the Shrine of the Bab, set against a skillfully overlaid architect’s rendering of the future terraces with their myriad young cypresses, paths, fountains and shrubs, and the Arc with its five edifices completed, constantly reminded the delegates of the compelling needs of the Arc Project.
The architect and project manager, Husayn Amanat and Fariburz Sahbd, drew further attention to the detail, grandeur and financial needs of this project in their slide presentations.
Two Holy Days were celebrated by delegates, visitors and World Center staff during the Convention period.
The Ninth Day of Riḍván was commemorated in the forecourt and gardens of the Haifa Pilgrim House adjacent to the Shrine of the Bab with the Hand of the Cause of God William Sears presiding.
Readings in five languages— Arabic, English, Spanish, French and Persian—were followed by the recitation of the Tablet of Visitation, after which the friends
silently and reverently circumambulated the Shrine of the Bab.
Following the close of the last Convention session, on the Twelfth Day of Ridvan, the distinguished visitors and World Center family gathered in the Ḥaram-i-Aqdas at Bahjí where the celebration was opened with forceful remarks by the Hand of the Cause Collis Featherstone about the significance of the occasion.
Readings in five languages were followed by the solemn but joyous circumambulation of the Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh by more than 1,000 of His followers.
For four days prior to the Convention, the delegates enjoyed a series of visits arranged for them to the Holy Places of the Faith in Haifa and ‘Akká.
Also, scores of consultative sessions were held among groups of National Spiritual Assemblies which share common goals and interests. These took place on the days before the Convention opened and in the evenings after the general sessions, often lasting into the late hours of the night. *
Counselors from all five Continental Boards attended the Convention—16 from Africa, 16 from the Americas, 12 from Asia, eight from Australasia, and nine from Europe—61 in all.
Special meetings and events were held for the Counselors under the auspices of the International Teaching Center. Five “continental” sessions were held for members of each of the Boards and the National Spiritual Assemblies in their areas.
Following the Convention, from May 3-8, the Hands of the Cause and Counselors remained in Haifa to take part in a Counselors’ Conference and to consult with the Universal House of Justice and the International Teaching Center.
Visit from page 1
ing the Arc on Mount Carmel and initiating the process of entry by troops in North America.
Never before has the Baha’i community had an opportunity to enjoy the presence of former members of the Universal House of Justice.
Their recollections of the Baha’i world community at an earlier stage of its development, their understanding gained through vast and historic experience, and their view of the emerging World Order of Baha’u’llah from the vantage point of the House of Justice, may now be shared by these retired members of the supreme governing body of the Faith.
Both Mr. Hofman, from Great Britain, and Mr. Kavelin, from
Germany requests traveling teachers
The National Spiritual Assembly of Germany has asked for up to three traveling teachers of diverse ethnic backgrounds with artistic or musical talent to join a teaching campaign from September 4-24, 1988. The project will mostly involve visiting schools. Knowledge of German is helpful but not required.
For more information, contact the Office of Pioneering, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.
the United States, became members of the Universal House of Justice when it was elected for the first time in 1963, on the centenary of the Declaration of Baha’ u’llh and less than six years after the passing of the Guardian.
The 25 years since then have seen vast changes in the Baha’i world, and at the World Center of the Faith, among them the completion of the Seat of the Universal House of Justice, expansion of the gardens and property owned
‘by the Faith at the World Center,
and recognition by the State of Israel of the Faith’s status as an independent world religion.
In 1963 the Baha’i world community counted less than 60 National Spiritual Assemblies; today there are 148.
The number of local Spiritual Assemblies worldwide has grown to more than 25,000, while the number of localities in which Bahá’ís reside now stands at more than 118,000.
As of January, the Universal House of Justice’s statement, “The Promise of World Peace,” had been presented, directly or indirectly, to 198 heads of state, while countless thousands of copies had been distributed elsewhere.
Meanwhile, the number of Ba ha’i-sponsored social and economic development programs around the world has grown dramatically, to nearly 1,500 as of January 1988.
Included in the total are seven radio stations, one in Africa and six in the Americas including WLGI Radio Baha’i in South Carolina.
The extremely rapid growth of the Faith, both internally and externally, during the past quarter of a century is awe-inspiring. But it is only the beginning.
In its Ridvan 1988 message, the Universal House of Justice calls our attention to the importance of teaching, and states the urgency of the hour.
The U.S. Bahá’í community will now have the opportunity during the coming year to hear presentations about that message from Mr. Hofman and Mr. Kavelin, two distinguished members of the House of Justice who helped draft it.
Necesitan Maestros Viajeros en su communidad? Favor de comunicarse con: National Teaching Committee, Baha'i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.
�[Page 5]
The American Baha’i / July 1988 / 5
TheNational BahA'j
©
Fund
Advancing the Faith around the World
1st Women’s Conference at Green Acre
Baha’i women from all over the Northeast plus Washington, D.C., Canada and even Botswana gathered May 5-7 at the Green Acre Baha’i School in Maine for its first-ever Women’s Conference.
It was a joyous occasion; the 80-plus participants seemed eager to be together from the first moment on Friday evening until the last meal on Sunday.
In the one and one-half days, which offered an intensive schedule of nine sessions and activities, the women (and one man who joined the group on Saturday) endeavored to understand the meaning of their station and all that it implies, and to gain insight on the issues of equality.
Topics such as teaching and race unity were given significant attention. In one session, the women took part in a three-part exercise that helped to identify (1) the qualities of a good teacher, (2) those skills and attributes that women presently bring to the teaching work, and (3) areas in which women need to gain greater strength in order to make more of an impact.
An excellent workshop on race unity identified those ways in which women can help break down barriers that keep blacks
NEEDED: person with expertise in estate sales, preferably in California or western states. For information, write to Office of the Treasurer, Fund Development Officer, Bahá’í National Center,
Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039, ext. 320.
5/88
An inspiring program giving and service to our everyday lives. This captivating presentation s| the pattern of our devotional life through the words and deeds of Bahi'is from various walks of life.
Suitable for Bahá’í study classes, firesides, children's and youth classes, and
individual study of the Faith.
For additional copies send check or money order to Bahá’í Distribution Service, 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette IL 60091.
© 1988 National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States
Running time: 19:20 min.
Bahda’i Distribution Service
Call toll free: 1-800-999-9019
and whites apart in America.
Other workshops focused on women’s needs to choose their life’s work with greater care, to cast aside the shackles of secondclass citizenship, and to transcend, as well as address, the difficulties of inequality as it presently exists within and without the Baha’i community.
The thread that tied together all aspects of the conference was the exemplary life of Bahiyyih Khanum, the Greatest Holy Leaf.
In the opening session, participants studied her life and tried to remember her throughout all of the sessions. One of the more moving moments came when Leona Hosack and Bev Rodgers sang Joany Lincoln’s song, ‘‘Most Holy Leaf.””
The lives of other Baha’i women were brought into focus as well, with Martha Root, Dorothy Baker, Corinne True and Tdhirih held up as lights to follow.
Consultation was consistently sprinkled with references to these pioneer women who served the Cause so splendidly.
At an open forum Saturday night, issues ranged from returning to school at middle age to sharing the responsibility for children within the Baha’i community.
Afterward, participants were led through a progressive relaxation exercise and guided meditation.
The Sunday morning session examined ways in which women can advance the Cause of God while a final session reminded the women of their divine station.
relating the joys of light on
$15.00 US VHS
“O SON OF BEING! Thy heart is My home; sanctify it for My descent. Thy spirit is My place of revelation; cleanse it for My manifestation. ’’ —The Hidden Words of Bahá’u’lláh
Automatic Contribution System proves popular way to help community achieve its Fund goals
The Automatic Contribution System (ACS) is fast becoming one of the hottest items to come out of the National Treasurer’s Office.
This channel for contributing to the Baha’i Funds through the electronic transfer of funds is proving so popular that it already accounts for a sizable part of the total contributions received each month.
For instance, out of the total contributions of $262,523 reported for the month of Jamal, nearly $51,500 came through ACS.
The potential of the system in helping the entire Baha’i community to achieve its Fund goal is tremendous.
That potential is not being fully realized because despite its many advantages and ease of operation, less than two percent of registered Groups and Spiritual Assemblies are presently using it. That is only 62 Groups and Assemblies.
Imagine how well the Fund could be doing if we had 3,000 communities using the system!
Advantages
You may be wondering why your Group or Assembly should be using the ACS, especially if the Group or Assembly is presently contributing to the Fund. Some of the benefits of the system are:
(a) It assures a steady flow of your contributions (regular participation) to the Fund.
(b) The steady flow makes financial planning easier for the National Spiritual Assembly.
(c) ACS saves the local treasurer’s time, one less thing to worry about.
(d) The community has fewer checks to write; one ACS transaction takes care of any or all of the four Baha’i Funds.
(©) It saves the National Assembly some money by reducing the costs of check processing and receipting.
Why then is everyone not using it?
We realize that the ACS system is not suitable for everyone. Like individuals, communities may have some financial considera tions that make it difficult for them to take advantage of the system.
However, most of the problems we are familiar with can be easily solved. If you or your community need any further information or assistance in subscribing to the ACS, please contact the National Treasurer’s Office, 312-869-9039.
"het him [the teacher] not be content until he has infused into his spiritual child so deep a longing as to impel him to arise independently, in his turn, and devote his energies to the quickening of other souls, and the upholding of the laws and principles laid down by his newly-adopted Faith."—Shoghi Effendi, The Advent of Divine Justice, pp. 43-44,
ACS FOR LOCAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLIES & BAHA'I GROUPS
(21 YES, our (
) Local Spiritual Assembly (
) Baha’i Group would like to enroll in the Automatic
Contribution System (ACS). We realize the first withdrawal may not be made for 30 to 45 days.
I, Group of
, represent the Local Spiritual Assembly or Bahá't (BLC#, ). authorize the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States to charge our community checking account $ each Gregorian month to be distributed as follows:
National Baha'i Fund $ Baha‘ International Fund * $ Continental Bahá'f Fund $ $ Total $ Signed Title : Tel: (H) (Ww)
Participation: This contribution represents participants (adults, youth ‘ind children),
2. [1] * Check if appropriate) Consider this donation part of the NSA's pledge to the
International Fund.
3. [7D Wehave enclosed a voided check from our community bank account .
TheNational Baha'i
Fund
. residing at a
Prant FoRL NAME
HIREET ADORE
Ten SAE EF
hereby authorize the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of the United States to charge my checking account each (gregorian) month the fixed amount of
{If your account is with a credit union or money market fund, please provide the address and telephone number of the office servicing your account.)
Attach this form to a check in the amount of your authorization.
Signed: ‘Number of participants:
Bana‘i ID #
Date: Mail’ NATIONAL BAHA‘i FUND Home phone: een
‘Work phone:
�[Page 6]
6 / The American Baha’i / July 1988
The question is, ‘What does the Faith need us to do?’
>
At the Green Lake (Wisconsin) Conference in September 1986, much of the discussion was centered on the role of the individual and his relationship to the institutions as our Faith moves into the fourth epoch of the Formative Age. On Friday evening, U.S. pioneer and Continental Counselor Eloy Anello of Bolivia spoke to the friends about the international needs of the Faith. The staff of the Office of Pioneering feels that Counselor Anello beautifully expresses all that is in our hearts, and we would like to reprise for you the highlights of his 1986 talk.
°
It occurs to me that a question
Dominica sets summer school
Dominica is holding its annual Bahd’{ summer school from August 2-5.
If you are interested in attending or offering to teach classes for children or youth, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.
comes to mind when we talk about the international needs of the Faith. Many of us sincerely ask, “How can I serve the Faith?”
Some think, ‘I’m a singer, I’ll sing,” or, ‘‘I like science, I'll be a scientist,” or “I'll be a doctor,”” or a Bahá’í teacher, a Baha’i physician, or a Baha’i musician and sO on.
It seems to me that the question “How will I serve the Faith?” is not the question at all. We should be asking the question, ‘What does the Faith need us to do?’’ That is the question.
That may mean that you have to sit home all night typing minutes for the local Assembly; that you have to serve on the local teaching committee through hours of consultation and planning; that you have to go and give a fireside though you’ ve never given one before; that you give a year of service to a foreign country, sleep on the floor with villagers and walk for hours to visit them; that you have to do those things you’ve never done before and for which you are not qualified.
The question is, ‘‘What does the Faith need you to do?’’
It is essentially a question of self-sacrifice.
Many of us mold our lives around the needs of the Faith. Some of us do it on a local level; a few shape their lives around the national needs of the Faith, work
ing at the national office, thinking
about the national needs from a
national perspective.
An even smaller few dedicate themselves to the international needs of the Faith.
T’ve noticed that in America there is a lack of consciousness about the international needs of the Faith. There is a tendency to look at the needs of America’s development on the local and national level.
I would like to expand that consciousness through this talk and help us realize that America’s destiny is intimately entwined with the international needs of the Faith.
The glorious destiny of America that has been outlined in the Tablets of the Divine Plan depends upon the fulfillment of the international needs and the response of this community, the American Baha’i community, to those needs.
If we are not even conscious of what they are, do not think about them, consult about them, how are we going to fulfill our destiny as envisioned by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in the Divine Plan and depicted by the Guardian in his writings?
How is the American Baha’i community going to arise to become the champion-builders of Baha’u’ll4h’s World Order? How are we going to become the executors of the Divine Plan?
Right now there are about
ARISE RADIATE
BAHAMAS BARBADOS _ BELIZE COLOMBIA DOMINICAN REPUBLIC GRENADA GUADELOUPE JAMAICA MARTINIQUE MEXICO PERU PUERTO RICO ST. LUCIA
TRINIDAD & TOBAGO
, VIRGIN ISLANDS
| “TRAIL OF MATCHES” CARIBBEAN ISLAND-TO-ISLAND
} TEACHING PROJECT
ST. VINCENT & GRENADINES,
THE VICTORY CAPTURE
Anyone can travel teach .. . all you need is an enterprising spirit, "reliance on Babi w'lidh, : and an open mind.
The National Teaching Committee, the National Youth Committee and the Office of Pioneering are collaborating on plans for international and domestic traveling teaching trips this summer. We are planning teaching routes from the International Youth Conference in Bloomington, Indiana, through the southwestern states to the International Youth Conference in Juarez, Mexico, which will be followed by teaching projects in northern Mexico. Projects are also being developed in the Caribbean and Central America. If you are interested in joining one of these projects, fill out the form below and send it to the Office of Pioneering for more details. The address is Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL
60091 (phone 312-869-9039).
NAME
YES, I am interested in international teaching projects. Please send me more information.
ADDRESS, | Phone #
Country. Dates
poe. AgE. Baha'i I. I want to Travel Teach to:
D. +
Please return to:
Office of Pioneering,
Baha'i National Center: Wilmette, IL 60091 or call (312) 869-9039.
100,000 Baha’is in the U.S.; 1.3 Percent are pioneering internationally—1.3 percent in 128 countries.
Right now there are about a dozen American believers who are giving regularly to the deputization fund. When you read Glean-’ ings, you find that Bahd’u’ll4h says if you can’t go, you should send someone in your stead. He says this quite clearly. This is a verity in our Faith.
What does this mean? It means you should help the pioneers to go, help finance their trip, help sustain them until they can find a job.
In Bahá’í Administration, the Guardian clearly states that the creation and purpose for the existence of the Administrative Order is to sustain the teaching effort. He even goes so far as to say that the sole purpose of the administration is to sustain the pioneering effort
Why is pioneering so important? If you look at every victory we have had in the international arena, you can trace it to the sacrificial efforts of a pioneer or a pioneer family. The thousands of Baha’ is we have in Bolivia are the fruits of a handful of pioneers who went and taught the Faith in the mountains.
Look at the Temples we have raised up and the many localities that have been established throughout the Baha’i world, the Statistics we present with such pride: 30,000 local Spiritual Assemblies, almost 150 National Spiritual Assemblies, 128,000 localities throughout the world. How did they occur?
They are the fruits of individual pioneers, out there, on the front, putting their all on the line for Baha’u’ll4h. That’s what it’s all about, and our Administrative Order should be sustaining that effort.
The Guardian, in The Promised Day Is Come, talks about the three false gods, one of which, he says, is nationalism.
Do you know how we protect ourselves from this false god of nationalism? By creating and maintaining a world-embracing vision.
I think that just as nationalism affects current political and national bodies, it can also affect our Faith. We have to have a world-embracing vision; otherwise, we lose perspective. We become ingrown.
‘Abdu’l-Bahá says that America’s spiritual sovereignty and glory depends upon the waves of spirituality that it sends throughout the world. The Guardian explains those waves as being waves of pioneers.
Now if we are not sending pioneers, we are not sending out waves of spirituality, and our spiritual sovereignty i: jeopardy.
The facts are that we have 1,350 pioneers from America, and’ that five years ago, the number was 1,550. We have lost 200 pioneers
in the pioneering field; 200 pioneers have left their posts and come back home, and we have not replaced them.
You don’t know what 200 pioneers mean to these Third World countries. You have no idea of the effect that even one pioneer has.
Bahá’u’lláh said, “Christ came to make thee fishermen of men; I have come to make thee fishermen of nations.’’ Going to these countries and conquering them in the name of Baha’u’llah is what this is all about.
I once asked Mr. (Mas’ud) Khamsi, who is a Counselor at the World Center, what is the quality most needed to be an effective pioneer.
He said, ‘‘Obedience is the most important quality. Through obedience an ignorant one can become wise, a coward can become heroic.””
On another occasion I had the opportunity to be with the Hand of the Cause of God Dr. Muhájir, and to check Mr. Khamsi’s response I asked him the same question.
“Obedience,” he replied with out hesitation. ‘‘What did Anis do that made him worthy to share the crown of martyrdom with the Bab? He was obedient. The Bab asked him to do something that was unimaginable, and he arose to obey. “Through that obedience, Anijs’s blood was mingled with the blood of the Bab. His dust has become one with the dust of the Bab on Mount Carmel. His soul is wedded with the soul of the Bab throughout the worlds of God.
“Through that one act of obedience, he was granted the crown. of martyrdom with the Bab.””
I remember when I was pioneering in Puerto Rico, the Hand of the Cause Enoch Olinga visited us and talked about the Hand of the Cause Mr. Banani.
Mr. Olinga was praising him, and said the Guardian had called Mr. Banani “‘the conqueror of Africa.’’ The Guardian said that the continent of Africa would be under the protection of Mr. Banani’s soul for all eternity.
“Do you know how the Hand of the Cause Mr. Banani conquered Africa?” Mr. Olinga asked. ‘‘Through his obedience to the Guardian.”
I mentioned Mr. Olinga’s remarks to Mr. Khamsi, who said, “Mr. Banani was the essence of obedience.””
What is obedience—that instant, exact and complete obedience that moves mountains, that conquers continents?
The Guardian said that obedience is another word for implicit Faith; it is the outward expression of an inward condition of faith.
There is a lovely quote by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá that I think is a little strong, but is a good tonic. It talks about sacrifice:
“Sacrifice of life is of two
See PIONEERING page 27
or phone 312-869-9039.
‘Onward to Victory’ theme in Guyana
“Onward to Victory” is the theme of an International Baha’i Conference to be held July 29-August 1 in Guyana. The conference will focus on teaching and will include special programs for children and youth, workshops, discussions, music and tours. Extensive teaching projects are planned for after the conference.
For more information and a registration form, contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahd’{ National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091,
�[Page 7]
P
The following is a list of Baha’i College Clubs and Associations that are in danger of not forming next year due to the small number of Baha’is attending those schools.
If you plan to attend college next semester, or to transfer to a new school, please consider one of the schools listed here.
Alabama—Auburn University, the University of Alabama-Huntsville, Alabama A&M. California—Contra Costa College, Mt. San Antonio College, the University of Southern California, San Jose State University, Chabot College. Colorado—Metropolitan State College. Washington, D.C.—George Washington University. Illinois—Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville. Towa—Maharishi International University. Maryland—Western Maryland College, Towson State University. Michigan—Central Michigan University, Oakland University. Minnesota—University of Minnesota-Duluth. Missouri—University of Missouri-Columbia. Montana—University of Montana. New York—Columbia University. North Carolina—Duke Univer sity. North Dakota—University of North Dakota.
Ohio—Case Western Reserve University.
Oregon—Lewis and Clark College.
Rhode Island—Brown University.
Tennessee—Memphis State University.
Texas—North Texas State Universit}
Virginia—Virginia Commonwealth University.
Wisconsin—University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.
Glenwood Springs set to mark anniversary of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit
The 76th anniversary of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit to Glenwood Springs, Colorado, will be observed September 16-18 with a weekend gathering at the Hotel Colorado,
This year’s commemoration honors Martha Root whose epic travels in response to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Tablets of the Divine Plan set the example for all Baha’is.
Duane Troxel will share his collection of 140 slides and many stories about Miss Root. Other topics will include the Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá (taught by Dr. Jamshid Samandari); the Tablets of the Divine Plan, and the Arc on Mount Carmel.
For registration information, contact Bill Mahoney, P.O. Box 206, Glenwood Springs, CO 81602 (phone 303-945-1192).
In its letter of January 3, 1984, addressed to the Baha’i youth of the world, the Universal House of Justice suggested that ‘‘...while still young and unburdened by family responsibilities, you give attention to the idea of volunteering a set period, say, one or two years, in the teaching or development field.
“Tt would accrue to the strength and stability of the community if such patterns could be followed by succeeding generations of youth. Regardless of the modes of service, however, youth must be understood to be fully engaged, at all times, in all climes and under all conditions.”
In response to that letter, the National Youth Committee established a Bahd’{ youth ‘Year of Service’’ program, designed to offer Bahd’{ youth an opportunity to serve the Cause in a unique and exciting way.
Youth who have graduated from high school or college are encouraged to set aside a year of their life in service to the Cause and to humanity. During this time, they have a chance to serve Bahda’u’ll4h through sacrifice and service to mankind.
The National Youth Committee works closely with those youth who have arisen to fulfill their commitment by directing them to positions of service, both at home and abroad.
Since the development of the “Year of Service’ program, the National Youth Committee has helped place approximately 45 youth in various positions.
In addition to these are those young people who have decided to serve at the World Center, where about 20 youth are now serving in various capacities.
Among the positions suggested to youth who inquire about ‘‘Year of Service’? opportunities are many that are available overseas
Carolyn Das, secretary of the National Youth Committee, presents
@ report on the International Youth Conference in Indiana to delegates and guests at the 79th Baha'i National Convention.
as well as here in the states.
Opportunities are available in Thany countries where the youth may take part in teaching activities, clerical work at national offices, traveling teaching, consolidating new believers, etc.
The most urgent needs are currently in Africa and Taiwan. Some positions are available in the U.S. at the Bahd’{ Properties office, the House of Worship, the National Archives office, and in various Baha’i communities.
The National Youth Committee keeps current lists of opportunities and also encourages youth to find new ways to serve the Cause which have not yet been explored.
One point that the National Youth Committee tries to emphasize is that although some positions may be advertised as positions in which the volunteer must
The American Baha’i / July 1988 / 7
be self-supporting, it is important tooremember that funds for the “Year of Service’? can always be raised.
Volunteers are encouraged to seek support from their families, local Spiritual Assemblies, and the National Youth Committee in order to raise the funds needed to support their ‘Year of Service.’”
Local Assemblies are also encouraged to set aside funds for future ‘Year of Service’? volunteers, or to sponsor youth from other communities while they are on a “Year of Service.”
Another important role of the National Youth Committee is to ensure that those institutions who wish to host ‘Year of Service’’ volunteers meet various requirements, among which are providing adequate supervision, social and environmental adjustments, and that the youth are kept active
|Service to Cause of God goal of ‘Youth Year’
while allowing for periods of rest.
The Baha’i youth ‘Year of Service’ program is one of sacrifice and service to Bahd’u’ll4h. The young people who participate find a great feeling of fulfillment, and a weeper bond with God is established during this time.
In Gleanings, Baha’u’ll4h says, “How great the blessedness that awaiteth him that hath attained the honor of serving the Almighty!”
America’s destiny is not an ingrown destiny; it is a worldwide destiny. America’s destiny is to serve the world; then will we achive our ultimate goal.
.
For information about the youth “Year of Service’’ program, write to the National Youth Committee, Bahá’í Nationa! Ce:ter, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.
24 ‘youth representatives’ present
Young people add spice to National Convention
A new dimension was added to the Baha’i National Convention this year through the presence of 24 ‘‘youth representatives”’ from many areas of the country.
Their participation came about as the result of a suggestion by the National Youth Committee, made
- last fall in the call to District Con ventions, that youth might take a deeper interest in and become better informed about the administrative process through their presence at the National Convention.
The young people came from as far away as California, South Carolina and Washington state. Their vitality and spirit affected all the participants at the Convention as they mingled with the delegates and sat in the visitors’ section, respectfully watching the proceedings.
The National Spiritual Assembly, cognizant of the significance of the presence of so many youth, invited them to observe the session, usually closed to all but voting delegates, at which the National Spiritual Assembly is elected.
Another influence of youth on the Convention came in the moving presentation by the secretary of the National Youth Committee about the International Youth Conference scheduled for early July in Bloomington, Indiana.
The impact of one of the first conferences in the history of the Faith was recalled, including the fact that youth were among the foremost participants and influences at that conference—the conference of Badasht—140 years ago.
The secretary said she hoped that the Youth Conference would similarly affect the heart of each participant, of whatever age, and that each would arise to teach the Cause with a ‘quality, variety and intensity outstripping all current efforts.””
312-869-9039,
Youth Committee to launch program at universities to deal with racism
The National Youth Committee is launching a nationwide program for colleges and universities that will deal with the issue of racism. The support, resources and encouragement of the entire Baha’i community is urgently needed.
Please submit any original ideas, presentations, research or other contributions to Mandy Enayati, National Youth Committee Office, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone
TO THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHA'IS OF THE UNITED STATES AND DELEGATES ATTENDING THE NATIONAL CONVENTION
AMERICAN YOUTH SERVING AT THE BAHA’{ WORLD CENTER IN HAIFA ARE OFFERING PRAYERS AT THE SACRED SHRINES ON BEHALF OF YOUR CONVENTION FERVENTLY PRAYING FOR A WAVE OF SPIRITUAL ENERGY AND HEARTFELT UNITY TO WASH OVER THE CONVENTION, INFUSING, INSPIRING, REJUVENATING AND REINFORCING ALL WITH THE ENERGY AND ABILITY TO TACKLE THE GREAT TASKS THAT LIE AHEAD OF US. AS THE NEW BAHA’i YEAR UNFOLDS YOU WILL REMAIN IN OUR PRAYERS AND IN OUR HOPES FOR YOUR GREAT SUCCESS. AMERICAN BAHA’l YOUTH IN HAIFA MAY 18, 1988 . TO THE YOUTH IN HAIFA FROM THE YOUTH REPRESENTATIVES AT U.S. NATIONAL CONVENTION ALLAH-U-ABHA! WE ENVY THE SACRIFICE YOU HAVE MADE OF MATERIAL THINGS IN ORDER TO OBTAIN SPIRITUAL BOUNTIES. YOUR SERVICE IN HAIFA HAS INSPIRED INCREASING ACTIVITIES AMONG THE YOUTH OF THE UNITED STATES. WE HOPE TO PUT YOUR SPIRIT TO WORK HERE AND CREATE A SPIRITUAL WAVE ACROSS THE STATES. THE WAVE HAS ALREADY BEGUN HERE AT THE CONVENTION WITH NEWS OF NEW TEACHING PLANS INITIATED BY THE U.S. NSA. THE YOUTH HERE HAVE RECEIVED PROFOUND ENCOURAGEMENT FROM THE DELEGATES TO CONTINUE THEIR TEACHING EFFORTS. WE APPRECIATE YOUR EXPERIENCE AND EAGERLY AWAIT YOUR ASSISTANCE IN BRINGING IN THE MASSES UPON YOUR RETURN. WE OFFER OUR LOVE, EXCITEMENT AND PRAYERS IN RETURN FOR YOUR SPIRIT FROM THE HOLY LAND. WARMEST BAHA’I LOVE. YOUTH REPRESENTATIVES AT THE 79TH U.S. NATIONAL CONVENTION MAY 22, 1988
ABS New England conference scheduled
The sixth annual Association for Baha’i Studies New England Regional Conference will be held September 2-5 at the Green Acre Baha’i School in Eliot, Maine.
The speakers will include Dr. Alberta Deas, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly; Zylpha Mapp Robinson, a former pioneer and health consultant in India and Tanzania; and Nat Rut stein, an author, educator and former television producer.
Workshop titles include ‘‘On Being a Black Baha’i Woman’’ and ‘‘Transforming Words into Action.””
For more information, write to the Green Acre Baha’i School, 188 Main St., Eliot, ME 03903, or phone 207-439-7200.
tario, Canada.
Port Huron, Michigan.
Ontario to host ‘International Picnic’
The 27th annual ‘International Baha’i Picnic’’ will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. August 14 at Canatara Park, Sarnia, On The picnic, which usually draws 100-200 Baha’is, provides a wonderful chance to meet new friends and renew old acquaintances. Canatara Park is just across the Blue Water Bridge from
�[Page 8]
8 / The American Baha’i / July 1988
Marriage, family life theme of S.
“‘Baha’i Marriage and Family Life, the Eternal Principle”? was the theme of a symposium held May 6-8 at Camp Buckhorn near Greenville, South Carolina.
Forty adults, both married and single, and 20 children took part in the event whose speakers included Jack and Fafar Guillebeaux, Ann and Bret Breneman, Truitt and Behine White, and Jack McCants.
Saturday’s sessions, on ‘‘Preserving the Fortress for WellBeing Against Formidable Odds,”’ saw the Guillebeaux leading the workshops and discussions.
On Sunday morning Mr. McCants, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly, inspired
everyone with his reminiscences of the
sixth Baha’i . International
A dramatic moment during the play ‘Táhirih,’ the first two acts of which were presented during a women’s conference held June 2-5 at the Louhelen Bahá’í School in Michigan.
Convention held in April in the Holy Land to elect the Universal House of Justice.
He spoke of the meetings between our National Assembly and the House of Justice, and stressed the urgency of the Supreme Body’s Ridvan message in which it stated, “‘...we urge you, with all earnestness from the utter depths of our conviction as to the ripeness of the time, to lay aside your every minor concern and direct your energies to teaching His Cause—to proclaiming, expanding and consolidating it.’’
The final topic for the adult sessions, ‘Raising Children to Become the New Race of Men,” was conducted by the Brenemans.
Special thanks go to the children’s teachers, whose devotion assured that their experiences at the conference were positive ones.
Thanks, too, to Annette Young, Julia Acaba and the Greenwood Baha’i community for their wonderful cakes; to NFSG (Newly Formed Singing Group); to Kathy Thompson for her glorious banner; and to Vince Cerqua, in charge of book sales.
You’re never too young to talk about Bahá’í marriage and family
life, as these children found during a symposium on that topic
Carolina symposium
held May 6-8 at Camp Buckhorn near Greenville, South Carolina.
Youth Theatre presents play ‘Táhirih’ Louhelen women’s conference
+ EDUCATION
The use of the arts to teach the Faith is often a topic of discussion when Bahá’ís gather.
The impelling power of the Covenant, released through the Ridvan message of the Universal House of Justice which states that “the present challenge calls for teaching on a scale and of a quality, a variety, and an intensity outstripping all current efforts,”’ caused the National Teaching Committee to look with fresh in
Welcome hot summer with cool issue
of Bri
Welcome the hot summer with a cool issue of Brilliant Star magazine! The July/August issue focuses on courtesy, which Bahá’u’lláh called ‘the lord of all virtues.”
Learn about ‘‘manners of the world’’ and what’s acceptable in one culture and not in another.
There are plenty of activities too! ‘‘The Case of the Table Set
Women’s Conference
set for July 30-31 in
Reynosa, Mexico
A Baha’i International Women’s Conference will be held July 30-31 in Reynosa, Mexico.
The conference is co-sponsored by the Spiritual Assemblies of Harlingen, Texas, and Reynosa, and the South Texas District Teaching Committee.
Special guests will include Carmen de Burafato, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly of Mexico; and Auxiliary Board members Michael Pietrzak and Robert Ramirez.
For reservations and information, contact Elvia Ramirez,
. McAllen, TX 78501 (phone 512-631-8786).
nt Star and learn ‘manners’
ting Mystery’’ is one we can all solve.
How to make a centerpiece for the table for the observance of the Martyrdom of the Bab, a word game, a song and a memorization round out the things to do.
Susan Engle has contributed two delightful poems about ‘‘Ms. Kangaroo” and ‘‘The Family Disarming.’’ And there are three pieces of fiction to read aloud or to yourself: ‘‘Na Jean Meets the Americans’ by Janis Porter Hayes, illustrated by Sarah Cassar; ‘‘Flowers in Her Hair’’ by Grace Schillinger, illustrated by Susan Rose; and ‘‘Porker, Stinker and Oafer’’ by Dona Schenker.
And of course you’ll find our usual Parents’ Page, Book Nook, and the newest regular feature, “Profile,” which highlights the authors and artists who make Brilliant Star the quality periodical that it is.
Look for us at the Subscriber Service booth at the International Youth Conference in Bloomington, Indiana!
You may subscribe now by sending $12 for one year (six issues) domestic mail to Subscriber Service, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.
terest at the potential of grassroots efforts to use the arts to teach.
One such effort was among the highlights of a conference for women held June 2-5 at the Louhelen Baha’i School in Michigan.
The presentation of the first two acts of the drama ‘‘Táhirih’”’ on the Friday evening program received a standing ovation from a full house of Baha'is and their guests, and generated lively discussion at an informal gathering that followed the program.
The play, based on the life of the 17th Letter of the Living, was written and directed by Carolyn Duell.
Its 16-member cast, ‘The Louhelen Youth Theatre,’’ ranging in age from six years to adulthood, is drawn primarily from communities in the Davison, Michigan, area and from the Louhelen Residential College.
Three captivating roles in the play are the child who becomes Táhirih, played by nine-year-old Sonya Hazelwood; Táhirih’s husband, Muhammed, played by Brian Bullock; and Táhirih herself, played by 16-year-old Emily Merrell.
The audience is transported to 19th-century Persia. Rose-scented fog, curtains, veiled women, and turbaned, barefoot men adorn the stage as the glorious history of the first woman to be martyred for the principle of the equality of women and men, as well as the awe-inspiring story of the recognition of the Bab by His earliest followers, is conveyed to the viewer through the art form of drama.
Striving for excellence, the Louhelen Youth Theatre members began rehearsing the play in January in anticipation of performing it at the International Youth Conference in Indiana in July.
However, doors to public presentation of the play opened at the University of Michigan-Flint as well as at the Masonic Temple in Detroit during June.
The National Teaching Com mittee anticipates the emergence of similar developments in the use of the arts for teaching in response to the Ridvan 1988 message from the Universal House of Justice. Other highlights of the Louhelen Women’s Conference included inspirational and informative lectures by several women including Mrs. Meherangiz Mun supports teaching through arts
siff of India and England; Mrs. Frances Van Deusen of Ivory Coast; Ms. Jacqueline Delahunt, secretary of the National Teaching Committee; and Dr. Gwendolyn Lewis, a researcher-writer.
About 75 people attended the conference, which was the second major conference for women to be held at the Louhelen school.
Need a gift? Try Brilliant Star!
Ever need a birthday present, a gift for an ill child, a special thought for a new parent, or a wonderful teaching tool? Brilliant Star magazine is the answer to your needs.
Published six times a year on behalf of the U.S. National Spiritual Assembly, the magazine is attractive and offers something for everyone.
In many Baha’i homes, Brilliant Star is used as a coffee table magazine. Its colorful cover invites one to pick it up.
And once your guest has it in his hands, why not offer it to him? (Usually you can replace it by ordering that particular issue through Subscriber Service.) What a gentle way to introduce the Faith to friends and neighbors!
Once your friends look inside, they’ll be delighted. Each issue has stories and drawings from around the world, contributed by the children who love Brilliant Star.
These delightful stories are appropriate both for Baha’is and their friends. They all reflect a high moral standard and deal with problems and tests that confront us all.
Photo essays tell us about our world and are especially appropriate for younger readers. Children have overwhelmingly told us that they enjoy the crafts and activities included in each issue. They range from mobiles and interplanetary vehicles to centerpieces for Holy Days.
And in each issue, books are reviewed for parents, teachers and
children. A Parents’ Page written by a well-known Baha’i rounds out each copy of Brilliant Star.
Please consider Brilliant Star as a gift that arrives throughout the year and a valuable teaching tool that will remind you to invite some guests over, each time it arrives.
A one-year subscription is $12; two years, $23. Send your check to Subscriber Service, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.
Meera Grimes, a dancer from India, was featured April 30 in a public program at the Nine Oaks Bahá’í School in Arroyo Grande, California. Mrs. Grimes, who is not a Bahá’í, presented a musical discourse _on the Indian Saint Meera of Rajasthan and a classical South Indian dance.
�[Page 9]
| EDUCATION
| )
After a comparative study of the major religions, which culminated in her embracing the Baha’i Faith on her trip to ‘Akkáé in 1900-01, Sarah Farmer, the founder of Green Acre, maintained ongoing correspondence with “Abdu’l-Bahá.
The Master assured her that He was with her in spirit as she worked to spread the Baha’i Message at Green Acre, and when He came to America in 1912, He visited Green Acre from August 16-23.
Local papers observed: ‘‘The great Persian teacher, Abdu’l-Bahá, is to spend several days at Green Acre, Eliot, arriving on Friday afternoon, August 16, about 4 o’clock, with his interpreters. ...
“A large gathering is expected at the evening reception on Friday at 8 o’clock at which some notable figures will be present. All friends of Unity and Peace are welcome.’
Details of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit are gleaned from diaries, letters, and oral and written reminiscences of people who were present at the time.
Mirza Ahmad Sohrab reported in Star of the West: ‘‘Many believers and visitors gathered at the gate to welcome him. ...From the gate of Green Acre to the hotel on both sides of the road two long lines of Japanese lanterns were
hung.
“ach person in Green Acre, whether Baha’i or not, had hung one of these lanterns. There were over a thousand. When the grounds were illuminated, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá said: ‘Very beautiful; very beautiful.”
Convention office has some lost items
The National Convention Coordinator’s office has several items found at this year’s Baha’i National Convention.
If you lost something, please phone 312-869-9039, ext. 209, or write to National Convention Lost and Found, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.
“Everybody was delighted with the coming of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and the atmosphere of Green Acre beand spiritual with His
Presence.
‘Abdu’l-Bahá spoke to a number of people on various themes of rational proofs and logical arguments, the distinction of the spirit of man from his physical aspects, the station of man, his spiritual capacity to ascertain the reality of things, the oneness of the world of humanity, the kingdoms and worlds of God and their harmony with one another, the power of love, and the oneness of God. (The talks given by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá at Green Acre may be read in The Promulgation of World Peace, pp. 253-75.)
Each day ‘Abdu’l-Bahá would walk down the country road, stopping to visit with townspeople going about their daily chores. Passing a camp, not too far from Green Acre, He napped in one of the bungalows for children.
On another occasion, entering a neighbor’s side door, He startled a woman who was doing her wash. What a vision He must have seemed in His flowing Persian robes and accompanied by exotic interpreters!
The Master gave a Unity Feast for several hundred guests from the porch of Staples (the house that now contains the Green Acre offices). Louise Thompson’s notes report that ‘‘Abdu’l-Bahá once said he had left enough Spirit in Green Acre to bring dry bones to life.””
Shoghi Effendi described the blessing ‘Abdu’l-Bahá bestowed on the open forum at Green Acre as one of the seven ‘outstanding functions associated with His visit to the community of the American believers, functions designed to pave the way for the erection of their central House of Worship, to fortify them against the tests they were soon to endure, to cement their unity, and to bless the beginnings of that Administrative Order which they were soon to initiate and champion.’”’ (God Passes By, p. 288)
Parts of a letter sent to Green Acre by Belinda M. Elliott Calvert of Louisville, Kentucky, speak of the impact of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit ‘on the friends who come to Green
Several of the 19 children who attended a session May | at the Nine Oaks Bahá’í School in Arroyo
Grande, California, summarize their class topic for the adults, some 33 of whom were present for
a deepening on ‘The Seven Valleys’ given by Dr. Vida Bertrand, a Bahá’í who is a lecturer in the language department at Stanford University.
Pictured is Sunrise Camp for guests at Green Acre conferences
Acre today:
“The years we lived in Hopkinton, New Hampshire, and could drive over to Green Acre any time we wished, stand out in my memory as the happiest times of my long life as a Bahd’{.
“*Walking on the land that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá walked on, associating with other Baha’is and the wonderful courses offered for study every year were experiences that can never be forgotten. It was ... sublime. ...
“The atmosphere can be so other-worldly at times that one forgets the old world and its problems. It is living on another plane while at Green Acre.
One time I left so entranced after a week, that I was thinking the new World Order had been established and we were living in it. I had driven several miles toward home before returning to reality. ...
“After moving from New England I returned to Green Acre many times during summer vacation. It was always like coming home again.
“One year I was given the room on the third floor next to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s. ...Lying down to sleep, it seemed I could feel vibrations of light and power coming through the wall to me. My room seemed to be shimmering with light.
“While at Green Acre you can say, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá looked at this scene, He walked up these steps, the same steps where I am now placing my feet. He walked down the hill from the Inn.
“Is it possible? How is it that I was chosen to know these things?
The American Baha’i / July 1988 / 9
Green Acre hallowed by the footsteps of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá |
who could not afford to stay at
the Inn. The large tent served as
Your heart lifts and swells with gratitude and love.””
And what did ‘Abdu’l-Bahá say about Green Acre?
“Are you well and happy? This is a delightful spot; the scenery is beautiful, and an atmosphere of spirituality halos everything. In the future, God willing, Green Acre shall become a great center, the cause of the unity of the world of humanity, the cause of uniting hearts and binding together the East and the West. This is my hope.”” (The Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 264)
And agai
“As the name Green Acre is similar to the town of Acca, when I arrived there I was made very happy. I spent one week in that green and delightful Acca. They had a large meeting every evening in which many people gathered, and I spoke to them on spiritual subjects.
“‘T met there many cultured and educated people. It is a most beautiful country place. Its water is pure, its air salubrious and its atmosphere is spiritual. There are many pine woods. ...
“I went there one afternoon; many people had gathered, and I spoke on the Baha’i teachings.”” (Star of the West, Vol. 5, p. 50)
“Consequently, if one looks for praiseworthy results and wishes to produce eternal effects, let him make exceeding effort, in order that Green Acre may become an assemblage for the Word of God and a gathering place for the spiritual ones of the heavenly world.’” (The Bahá’í World, Vol. VII, p. 56)
“the fair weather lecture hall above
which the Peace Flag flew.
From a letter of William H. Randall to Mrs. Mabel Hyde Paine dated May 18, 1922:
“When I was in Haifa in 1919, Abdu’l-Bahá talked to me about Green Acre and requested that I do all I could to keep the foundation of Green Acre a living issue because He told me that some day Green Acre would be the Acea of America and would be the greatest spiritual center in America for the gathering of all peoples.’”
The restoration and winterization of the Sarah Farmer Inn will enable it to be more useful to a greater number of the friends for many years to come. This is a necessary increment in Green Acre’s path toward its glorious destiny as envisioned by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.
The fund-raising effort, as of this writing, is at approximately $150,000, with $1.5 million needed by September 30 to begin construction work.
While the fund-raising has been entrusted by the National Spiritual Assembly to the Baha’is of the Northeastern states, Baha'is everywhere are invited and encouraged to contribute.
Contributions earmarked for the Green Acre restoration can be sent to the National Treasurer’s Office or sent directly to Restoration Fund, Green Acre Baha’i School, 188 Main St., Eliot, ME 03903.
Should you wish to know more about any of the work being done at Green Acre, drop us a note or phone 207-439-7200 and we will be happy to add your name to our newsletter mailing list.
| Finding the Real You | HS we HS | +a oY RS RE EL ERE 3 ge a: fe He
Viv
New from George Ronald, Publisher
‘Something’s missing in my life!’ Starting from this all-too-familiar feeling, this book focuses on the talents and capacities you never knew you had. Based on the Baha’i teachings, here isa challenging approach to the subject of change.
224 pages Softcover $7.50
(Order rom Bahai Distribution Service
415 LINDEN AVENUE, WILMETTE, IL 60091 TEL 1-800-999-9019 © through your local distribution representative. No postage on orders shipped within the 48 contiguous United States (add 15% outside this area).
�[Page 10]
10 / The American Baha’i / July 1988
‘Dawn-breakers’ theme of campaign in western S.C.
Enthusiasm is high, interest is keen, unity is manifest, and selfless dedication is evident as the Bahá’ís in South Carolina’s Western District launch their “‘Dawnbreakers of the New World Order’’ teaching campaign.
The campaign is to continue until the end of the Six Year Plan, gaining strength and momentum until entry by troops is assured.
All of the goals of the Six Year Plan are being energetically pursued. Topping the goals of the campaign is proclaiming the Message of Bahá’u’lláh to all the people in the district and enrolling at least one percent of the population, thus bringing an estimated 6,000 new believers into the Faith.
Consolidation is receiving special attention. Even as the campaign is launched, children’s classes are functioning and a Library Committee is making available and dispersing Baha’i literature.
New believers’ institutes are scheduled to take place once a month, and a plan is being initiated to encourage and assist local Spiritual Assemblies to reach maturation.
Under the supervision of a coordinator who is assisted by a secretary, five task forces are carrying out specific duties such as organizing public meetings, holding deepening classes, and handling media and publicity.
The coordinator and his assistant are monitoring the teaching activities and ensuring a unified and efficient mass teaching effort.
Everything is in place, conditions are right, and the harvest is waiting. Now, the friends in Western South Carolina are asking you to join in and work beside them.
Needed are homefront pioneers to help bring about the maturation of Assemblies. Public speakers are needed for firesides and media interviews; also needed are youth who are able to dedicate time to the campaign.
If you are interested and feel that you can help, please contact Jane Cerqua, 803-868-9470.
Oregon East slates summer school at Hideaway in Ukiah
The Oregon East summer school is to take place August 13-16 at Hideaway Hot Springs in Ukiah, Oregon.
The theme is ‘‘The Fourth Epoch—The Unfolding Pattern.’ Classes will be held for adults, children and youth.
Pre-registration by August 1. For information, phone Sharon Hays, 503-426-3790 or 503-4263756.
Upcoming and Ongoing Teaching Projects
Evancton,
Macao, NO ANGUSOWEN PROVECT Sst ISEBESEWoRsHP usnians MARGAREEProvecr Grong Rockisand x Ongoing Provect THE RCT TORIOW SOROTPORR Mave Biases \ ROCKISUAND Bosagaans Ree? 8 Rchard Snowe Paouecr PoVvei2 008, a ey Nesenoe. wy 312806 00007. sirhaoaate Surer, 1960 Barattners \, Eitaonth Heserson ' Nv See, SARTORI Rose \ AauecT AS \ 02 280 MARIAN STEFFES PROJECT HRC procct BAEC Un ater Of zt ee Daworget a) \ nates Sa ea ERE Phovecr “Seale bans 210794 PecN Te ree Si7se7 001 Heese? Binh, PROTECT sia ne Mnapote MN \ 1298 EsOwilte y has Roe Hoke SEEPS \siasor Sa | \\ BROS ST Ee oy / MRRAMER Bc proucor Bair ete ces on SE coon Caregen Sze Snes Boia oars sateen SSFP dooce 09 feeds aii4 abies rats" BRRECY ACHUSETTS See 20 prope) ‘GON < visenetage RIES? ENT Faeerenn ieeoee boa ae SS (7 Gems Wat nasecr Leottash PROIEGT ARISE NS Wie tarda Bee Syeee 35 Based Emet M 2 = Tee? iy a X AY Seine restorer Sore, Pl at Retina BEIMIRPAM Ror PrOIeCT (906/809-0061 NABI CT Can 7 Gnooee eas Lg gol, CA. 3 Vs orbsr eee Ser SLOG __b00n67s126x0505 —_\ Lax \F Mi Ao NE ‘ros pnt eurenae Faas FUNABROUECT Fas Church Vi Yee: WESPPBTY ooo pnoseat \ 747 : Gros oc i ca Spee ¥ hf 919780-7878 Thoms Ndousso HERR, PREM _—— Kv \/ | | Pitone Co, SE an Saeton A SF Vi SRA pata heantns Sa pect. nas Lae as eee ae MRSA MEIO ACROSS THE BORDER pecans Pe Famer | oma cy aca an78 BRaUaysce0 roan 8 Banny Chavez ‘Groon, /jEFEERS | |OR-OAVUOI Nora: RNR g 1920 Saiownsoy tro \Lf [pacer | |pROvEC SS Ge ‘ Bakery? /Sogeg | Eat Proens 03, AZ Mee Yeas east zo | | 2287 $e Fda PROIEET RAO PAVON DESERTAOSE Keeas dace el NewSenssalei steerer Soe gree a a SS ug sllil/ AL” BAOUECT See PReRE Ninos soar Soho Se ARMY CRN asec ennweatwen 9092 yore ea | soseisoizs wenta KS a proKs soueaeeat ny Sana gut GENOUA WEST PROJECT ‘1'e62-7190 Feta Gutnconux THOMAS LEON HILL PROJECT Nation wide. Kansas Foxe. 2082815 Northwest la Nation-wide. IARGRAP rencama comarree Sreeasttts «MBER Wate provect Stow ase ten torrente cor Seman Uae Bene, RANGNAR ours comrree peor PROM SAMMeASEROVEC ROVEC Noten Sharon ‘naan. we " sous as Beebo Siessi ses were Ste Seon On the map above are listed the ongoing and upcoming teaching projects ——<———<—— OO enn ns ss
in the United States that have been reported to the National Teaching Committee as of June 3. If your community is sponsoring a teaching project that does not appear on the map, please fill in the form (to the right) and return it to the National Teaching Committee. If you would
rather that information about your project not be published in The Sponsor:
American Bahá’í, please indicate this in the ‘comments’ section. Best iia
wishes for a successful project—we look forward to hearing from you! Location: Contact Person:
Consistency pays off in Buffalo firesides
©) Teaching Projects—1988/1989 @
Name of Project:
There were only three weeks during the past year in which a Baha’i fireside was not held in the home of Bill Sims in Buffalo, New York.
Mr. Sims has an entire task force helping to attract seekers to his firesides. They are the projecteers of Project Lua, a teaching campaign focused on reaching minority residents of Buffalo.
Jeane Delaney is the coordinator of Project Lua. Like many of those involved in the campaign, she devotes one day per week to visiting seekers.
At least nine people are visited regularly by Mrs. Delaney and her teammates, but more have asked for visits as new people are often met at seekers’ homes. During these visits, the seekers are reminded of the firesides, and many of them come.
Although various speakers are asked to address the firesides each week, the presentations are informal. The speakers are asked to speak from the heart.
The only stipulation is that at the conclusion of the talk, they show a declaration card and, in their own words, explain how one
Phone Number(s):
join the Faith. can join the Fait Tyree
Consistent interaction with seekers has led to an increase in Goal(s): the number of believers in BufComments:
falo. In the past year, two new friends declared their faith in
Bahá’u’lláh at the firesides—and one more in a car on the way home.
—--——-————-—---- 4
caeSant
Its Meaning and Origin and Our Attitude Toward It
Teaching Committee to act as is now available.
of Justice in its Ridvan 19: appreciation of the meaning and purpose of His Revelation:
Like The Word of G
is aring firesides, public talks, or seminar work at Baha'i al
Retum to: National Teaching Committee, Baha National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091
First there was The Word of God, The second booklet in a series of study guides developed b a bridge to expanded study of the profound concepts found it the Baha Writings
this booklet may be used for individual or
the National
The Covenant: Its eae oie Origin and Our Attitude Toward It addresses the appeal of the Universal House Message to concentrate on this theme, which "will cma
le us all to obtain a deeper
roup study. It may be used as a resource for
schools or institutes. New believers and long-time
‘is Will find it'useful, educational, and uplifting. Order yours now
‘Fireside Video’ winners named
At the 1988 National Convention, the National Teaching Committee announced the winners of its second Fireside Video Contest.
Taking first place was ‘‘Magic Peace Project’’ by the Magic Valley Peace Committee of Buhl, Idaho. Placing second was “Making Our Choice’’ by the Baha’i Information Office of Miami Valley, Ohio. And in third place was ‘‘Martin Luther King Jr. and World Peace’’ by Siamak Danandeh and Arya Mansur of Irving, California.
The possible availability of the videos will be announced in an upcoming issue of The American Bahá’í.
po----------- Pace ee | eR | Order from: Baha'i Distribution Service I i 415 Linden Ave., Wilmette, IL 60091 | Phone: (800) 999-9019 Only $2.00 each!
| 2 | | I [=e Booklet Quantity | Cost | | 1
The Word of God | | ow Stele Zip | | —— The Covenant | |: a tale el Ft | [Grae one totter Vea me Total Cost I Lea Gi) ee ees <i a eae ee
TEACHING
The Riḍván 1988 message from the Universal House of Justice summons every individual believer—man, woman, youth and child—to the field of action, reminding us that “‘it is on the initiative, the resolute will of the individual to teach and to serve, that the success of the entire community depends.””
With that message in mind, the National Teaching Committee
‘Growth Conference’ set in Lincolnwood on Labor Day weekend
A “Conference on Growth,”’ hosted by the National Teaching Committee, will be held September 2-5 (Labor Day weekend) at the Hyatt Lincolnwood hotel in Lincolnwood, Illinois, near Wilmette.
The conference is designed as a briefing for District Teaching Committees, but all Baha’is are invited and encouraged to attend.
The conference theme is “Building Unity of Thought on Teaching.” Its primary focus will be on the Ridvan 1988 message from the Universal House of Justice with an aim toward precipitating entry by troops.
In addition to guest speakers, the conference will include workshops emphasizing the vital importance of the individual and teaching, the processes of growth, and unified action in teaching, as well as others designed to provide “‘nuts and bolts’’ information,
i and materials for those appointed to all the committees that assist the work of the National Teaching Committee.
It is hoped that as many of the friends as possible will attend this exciting conference. For more information about arrangements— and for a registration form— please write to the National Teaching Committee, Baha’ National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.
would like to share a letter from the Spiritual Assembly of Redlands, California, to the members of its community. Their modest and simple request, found toward the end of the letter, is one that we all might try to fulfill. .
Dear Redlands Bahá’ís,
From time to time the Redlands local Spiritual Assembly gets caught up in planning events, correspondence, etc., and puts direct teaching by the community and individual believers on a back burner.
The Assembly wishes to remind the local believers and itself that teaching the Cause is the primary duty prescribed to us by the Central Figures and the Universal House of Justice. Following are some common thoughts:
Why should I teach the Cause?
“In the Aqdas Baha’u’ll4h considers teaching as a spiritual obligation imposed on every devoted believer and servant of His faith.””
“Under all conditions the message must be delivered, but with wisdom. If it be not possible openly, it must be done quietly.”’
But I don’t know who I can teach.
“‘No effort must be spared to ensure that the healing word of God reaches the rich and poor, the learned and the illiterate, the old and the young, the devout and the atheist, the dweller in the remote hills and islands, the inhabitant of the teeming cities, the suburban businessman, the laborer in the slums, the nomadic tribesman, the farmer, the university student; all must be brought consciously within the teaching plans of the Baha’i community.”’ But I’m afraid I'll blow it.
“Whenever thou art desiring to talk and answer questions, turn thy face toward the Kingdom of Abha and beseech for assistance; then loose thy tongue. Thou will behold at that time how thou art able to answer all the questions.’’
“Perhaps the reason why you have not accomplished so much in the field of teaching is the extent you looked upon your own weaknesses and inabilities to spread the message. Bahd’u’ll4h and the
The panel pictured here was displayed at the 1988 Bahá’í National Convention in May. It was compiled from reports of unified action in teaching submitted by District Teaching Committees. All but two DTCs reported teaching activities which involved dynamic collaboration among two or more institutions and/or agencies of the Faith! Committees were asked to
Unified Action in Teaching
submit information on a 3-by-5 inch card. The District Teaching Committee of Southern Ohio had so many examples of unified action in teaching that they submitted their report in the form of a 3-by-5 inch multi-sectional foldout (shown at lower right). Many delegates who saw the display said their districts would not be outdone by Southern Ohio next year.
Master have both urged us repeatedly to disregard our own handicaps and lay our reliance upon God.””
“*...The mere act of arising will win for you God’s help and blessings.””
“«...Let your heart burn with the desire to serve His mission and proclaim His call; and you will observe how eloquence and the power to change human hearts will come as a matter of course.”’
“‘Everyone is a potential teacher. He has only to use what God has given him ...””
How can I prepare myself so I don’t blow it?
‘*...no system for teachers to practice exists. But obviously the more people know about the teachings and the Cause, the better they will be able to present the subject. If some people find that prayer and placing all their trust in
The American Baha'i / July 1988 / 11
A simple proposal from Spiritual Assembly of Redlands
God releases in them a flood of inspiration, they should be left free to pursue this method if it is productive. ...’”
“*...to effectively teach the Faith, the individual must study deeply the Divine Word.””
When should I teach the Faith?
“Now is the time that you must divest yourselves from the garment of attachment to this phenomenal realm, be wholly severed from the physical world, become angels of heaven and travel and teach through all these regions.””
“In this day, the beloved of God must not hesitate or delay an instant in teaching the Cause of the Manifestation ...’””
Dear friends, the quotes are limitless, the instructions and inspirations in our vast number of books is endless.
The Redlands Assembly has a modest request for all the mem bers of the community, including the members of the Assembly.
In the coming weeks, invite a non-Baha’i to dinner at your home. Shower him or her with Baha’i love, kindness and gratitude. Mention the Faith to them.
Then, at a time shortly thereafter, invite them to a fireside at your home. If it is not possible to host a fireside, invite them to the very next fireside in our community.
That’s it! Let’s give it a try. We have only to try and things will begin to happen.
“*...Be assured that Bahd’u’ll4h has promised to aid all those who arise in His name. His strength will sustain them; their own weakness is unimportant.”’
With Baha’i love,
Local Spiritual Assembly of Redlands, California
But recognizing diversity aids teaching
Stereotypes can be a barrier to
Obvious differences are apparent in various groups of people. But once racial, cultural and socio-economic differences are stripped away, people are—no, not all the same—they are individuals; the most diverse group of all.
People of all colors, nationalities and backgrounds have personalities as different as their fingerprints—and need to be approached and treated as such when they are taught the Faith.
Stereotypes are generalizations that make it easy for us to sort people into predictable categories. Stereotypes are convenient; they save our minds the time and trouble of constantly interpreting new stimuli.
But they can also be dangerous in that they cause us to overlook the great diversity of character that is to be found in every group, thereby causing us to make false assumptions about people.
Such stereotypes have led to prejudice against black people in the United States.
Stereotypes can be stumbling blocks to effectively teaching the Baha’i Faith. The following, for example, are a few of the typical erroneous assumptions based on stereotypes about black people
‘that some Bahá’ís who are not
black may have carried over from their ‘‘old world’’ patterns of thinking:
- Most blacks are not intellectually mature enough to understand the intricacies of the Faith—
it is better to stick to the basics when teaching them.
« All blacks enjoy singing— teaching them Baha’i songs is one
“The more one can give, the better it is...” National Bahá’í Fund Wilmette, IL 60091
of the best ways to deepen them in the Faith.
- Few blacks have strong administrative capabilities—it is better to fill in forms for them than
to bother with asking them to do it themselves.
In examining these assumptions, we can see how damaging stereotypes are to the progress of black Baha’is—and, therefore, to the progress of the Cause as a whole.
One way to confront and overcome prejudiced attitudes and beliefs is through participation in workshops that are specially designed to deal with stereotypes.
Many Baha’is, such as Iris and Leonard Bell in Oregon, have led successful workshops in which, through the initial use of films and stories, interspersed with quotes from the Writings, people have come to realize the subtle assumptions they make in an atmosphere in which they can consult freely about them and can begin to restructure their ways of thinking.
The most fundamental way in which Baha’is who are not black can overcome stereotypical ways of thinking toward black people, however, is through informal association and interaction with them on a level that is deeper than superficial acquaintance.
Not only can those who have prejudiced attitudes come to terms with those attitudes by experiencing their black friends’ true individuality, they can also confront their attitudes by asking their black friends to point out to them when they have made a comment or acted in a way that reflects stereotypical thinking.
Shoghi Effendi referred to both the black and white races in this statement about the most vital and cuallenging issue of race preju ice:
9039.
Late news about Mexico conference
Some last-minute news has arrived about the International Youth Conference to be held July 22-24 at the Instituto Nacional de Bellas Artes in Juarez, Mexico:
© Confirmed speakers are Counselors Hedi Ahmadiyyih, Isabel Pavon de Calderén and Arturo Serrano.
- Prices for rooms at hotels have been reduced by 20 percent.
¢ Baha’ is arriving at the conference site on Thursday morning will be able to take part in a community service project.
For more information, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869
progress
“Let neither think that the solution of so vast a problem is a matter that exclusively concerns the other. ...Let neither think that anything short of genuine love, extreme patience, true humility, consummate tact, sound initiative, mature wisdom, and deliberate, persistent and prayerful effort, can succeed in blotting out the stain which this patent evil has left on the fair name of their common country ...””
Prejudice is sustained through stereotypes; and as Bahá’ís, we know that the unity of mankind cannot truly exist until prejudice is eliminated.
The process of confronting and dealing with prejudiced attitudes often is not pleasant, but in the end will lead not only to greater diversity in the Faith, but also to unity in diversity; the unity of all mankind—for which teaching the Baha’i Faith is our purpose.
Summer schools can reinforce one’s sense of Baha’i identity
Where is your nearest summer school? Will you attend?
In today’s world we are surrounded by defective social, economic and religious systems. Care must be taken that they do not influence us. We must be intentional in assuring that the primary influence shaping our identity is the Bahda’i principles.
A Baha’i identity can be strengthened at Baha’i summer schools. The reinforcement gained at these schools can help the individual and the family withstand the challenges of this world.
If you are an adult, the time is now. If you are a child, a summer school is a spiritual investment. If you are a youth, you are summoned by Shoghi Effendi:
“The obligation to teach is essentially the responsibility of young believers. Their whole training should therefore be directed in such a way as to make them competent teachers.
“It is for this very purpose that Baha’i summer schools, which constitute the very basis upon which the Baha’i universities of the future will be established, should be widely attended by young believers.”
�[Page 12]
12 / The American Baha'i / July 1988
WY
er
One of the unique aspects of the Baha’i Revelation is that the Holy Scriptures exist in written form in the handwriting of the Founder of the Faith.
Unlike the dispensations of the past, whose Holy Books were compiled and were, except for Islam, written only after the passing of the Founder, Baha’is have access to the exact Word of God for this Day.
The Writings of Bahd’u’ll4h total, as He Himself testifies, more than 100 volumes. Mostly in the form of letters, or tablets, sent to specific individuals, His works range from short letters to complete books, such as the Kitdb-iIgdn.
The words of Baha’u’ll4h are different from the words of men. They can be compared only to the actual words of other Manifestations of God, for the Manifestations reveal the Word of God.
“Know thou,”’ Baha’n’ll4h says, ‘‘...that the Word of God ... is far higher and far superior to
that which the senses can perceive, for it is sanctified from any propexty or substance. It transcendeth the limitations of known elements and is exalted above all the essential and recognized substances. It became manifest without any syllable or sound and is none but the Command of God which pervadeth all created things.’’ (Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, pp. 140-41)
The Word of God is embodied in the Holy Books of the past religions. ‘‘In the days of Moses it was the Pentateuch; in the days of Jesus the Gospel; in the days of Muhammad the Messenger of God the Qur’An. ...’’ In this Day, the Word of God is the Writings of Baha’u’ll4h.
In writing a book, an author will write and rewrite sections many times. The Word of God, however, is revealed by the Manifestation, Who is the only Channel for the Message of God.
Thus those who were present when Bahd’u’ll4h was revealing verses described the great speed
From the Writings...
“Every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God is endowed with such potency as can instill new life into every human JSrame, if ye be of them that comprehend this truth. All the wondrous works ye behold in this world have been manifested through the operation of His supreme and most exalted Will, His wondrous and inflexible Purpose. Through the mere revelation of the word ‘Fashioner,’ issuing forth from His lips and proclaiming His attribute to mankind, such power is released as can generate, through successive ages, all the manifold arts which the hands of man can produce. This, verily, is a certain truth. No sooner is this resplendent word uttered, than its animating energies, stirring within all created things, give birth to the means and instruments whereby such arts can be produced and perfected. All the wondrous achievements ye now witness are the direct consequences of the Revelation of this Name. In the days to come, ye will, verily, behold things of which ye have never heard before. Thus hath it been decreed in the Tablets of God, and none can comprehend it except them whose sight is sharp. In like manner, the moment the word expressing My attribute ‘the Omniscient’ issueth forth from My mouth, every created thing will, according to its capacity and limitations, be invested with the power to unfold the knowledge of the most marvelous sciences, and will be empowered to maniJest them in the course of time at the bidding of Him Who is the Almighty, the All-Knowing. Know thou of a certainty that the Revelation of every other Name is accompanied by a similar manifestation of Divine power. Every single letter proceeding out of the mouth of God is indeed a mother letter, and every word uttered by Him Who is the Well Spring of Divine Revelation, is a
‘ mother word, and His Tablet a Mother Tablet. Well is it with them that apprehend this truth."’ (Baha'u'llah, Gleanings, pp. 141-42)
.
Discuss the passage above with the Baha’i who taught you the Faith, or with another believer. Together consider the following questions:
What does Baha’u’ll4h mean by “Every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God is endowed with such potency as can instill new life into every human frame’’?
© How does the passage from the Writings describe the creative power of the Word of God?
© Do you think that we, as individuals, can make use of the power drawn by the Word of God? How?
- What does Baha’u’ll4h mean when He describes the Word of
God as a ‘‘mother word”’ or ‘‘Mother Tablet’’?
.
The following books that address the topic of Baha’i literature and the Word of God are available from the Baha’i Distribution Service:
The Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh, Volume 1, by Adib Taherzadeh, pp. 18-44, offers an overview of the nature of the Word of God. The three volumes of The Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh survey the better-known Writings of Baha’u’ll4h including some that are not yet translated into English, and provide the historical background of these works including episodes from the life of Baha’ u’ll4h and some of His early companions.
A Reader's Guide: The Development of Bahá’í Literature in
ey eee ieee:
with which the verses were revealed. Although Baha’u’ll4h did write some of the verses in His own hand, more often a secretary was available to write down the verses as He spoke them; later, Bahá’u’ll4h would approve the final copy.
So quickly was the Word of God revealed by Baha’u’ll4h that the more than 200 pages of the Kitdb-i-[gdn were completed in two days.
Baha’ u’llah states: ‘‘So great is the grace vouchsafed in this day, that in a single day and night, were an amanuensis capable of accomplishing it to be found, the equivalent of the Persian Bayan (the Holy Book of the Bab) would be sent down from the heaven of Divine holiness.” (Quoted in God Passes By, p. 171)
The Word of God is a source of spiritual power. Through it, the Manifestation of God educates the individual and society.
“Every verse which this Pen hath revealed is a bright and shining portal that discloseth the glories of a saintly and pious life, of pure and stainless deeds .. Baha’u’llah says. ‘Mankind in its entirety must firmly adhere to whatsoever hath been revealed. ...”” (Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 89)
Elsewhere, He states: ‘“The purpose underlying the revelation of every heavenly Book, nay, of every divinely-revealed verse, is to endue all men with righteousness and understanding, so that peace and tranquillity may be firmly established amongst them. ...’’ (Gleanings, p. 206)
It is because of the transforming power of the Word of God that Bahd’u’ll4h emphasizes that we use it—through prayer, reading, and study.
For example, He says, ‘‘Recite ye the verses of God every morning and evening. Whoso reciteth them not hath truly failed to fulfill his pledge to the Covenant of God and His Testament. (“The Importance of Deepening,” p. 1)
In addition to the Writings of Bahda’u’ll4h, which stand in a class by themselves, Baha’is are blessed by the availability of authoritative literature in the words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Shoghi Effendi, and the Universal House of Justice.
‘Abdu’ l-Baha’s and Shoghi Effendi’s writings are the interpretation of the Writings of Baha’u’ll4h. The authority of these works is equal to the authority of Baha’u’llah’s own statements.
The Universal House of Justice does not interpret the Writings of Baha’u’ll4h; however, it is charged with the responsibility of deciding on matters not revealed in the Baha’i Scriptures, and of clarifying matters that are obscure.
The Universal House of Justice explains:
“In the Baha’i Faith there are two authoritative centers appointed to which the believers must turn, for in reality the Interpreter of the Word is an extension of that center which is the Word itself.
“The Book is the record of the
FOR NEW BAHA'IS...
versal House of Justice guided by God to decide on whatever is not explicitly revealed in the Book.” (‘Messages from the Universal House of Justice,’’ p. 42)
A third category of literature is also available to the friends. This is the writings of Bahd’{ authors who have created a wide range of materials that includes stories of the history of the Faith, introductory presentations, and comments on various aspects of the teach ings.
Such materials, while having no binding authority, offer great help to those who are studying the Faith, whether Baha’is or non-Baha’is.
Despite the wide range of materials available to a new believer, the unique position of Bahd’u’ll4h’s Writings as the accurate record of the utterance of the Manifestation of God should never be overlooked. Baha’u’ll4h Himself offers us the following in vitation and challenge:
“‘O My servants! My holy, My divinely ordained Revelation may be likened unto an ocean in whose depths are concealed innumerable pearls of great price, of surpassing luster. It is the duty of every seeker to bestir himself and strive to attain the shores of this ocean, so that he may, in proportion to the eagerness of his search and the efforts he hath exerted, partake of such benefits as have been preordained in God’s irrevocable and hidden Tablets. ...
“The one true God is My witness! This most great, this fathomless and surging Ocean is near, astonishingly near, unto you. Behold it is closer than your lifevein! Swift as the twinkling of an eye ye can, if ye but wish it, reach and partake of this imperishable favor, this God-given grace, this incorruptible gift, this most potent and unspeakably glorious bounty.”” (Gleanings, p. 326)
Some titles to help new believers build basic library of Baha’i reference books
A new Baha’i is faced with the task of building, from scratch, a personal Baha’i library. With so many titles available, it is difficult to know what books to begin with.
While there is no one answer— each person’s choice will depend upon his or her particular interests—the following is a recommended list of five books that can be obtained from the Baha’i Distribution Service for a total cost of less than $25.
These books can serve as a core library; they include material from Baha’u’ll4h, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, and Shoghi Effendi, and contain a survey of the teachings and history of the Faith.
Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh
This book, compiled by Shoghi Effendi, contains excerpts from the Writings of Bahd’u’ll4h on a wide range of topics: God and His Manifestations, the Day of God, the nature of humanity, the spiritual meaning of life, and the soul and immortality. The Guardian indicated that this book ‘‘should be the continued guide and companion of every believer,’’ and offered the hope that it would ‘‘rekindle in the heart of all the friends a new light, whereby they will receive a fuller guidance and a greater measure of inspiration in their labors for the Cause.’’ Some Answered Questions
In response to a number of questions from a western believer, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá offers answers that reveal the Baha’i teachings on a
number of topics from the nature and influence of the Manifestations of God to Christian doctrine, evolution, and the nature of the soul, mind and spirit of human beings. The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh
This book is a compilation of seven letters from Shoghi Effendi that provide a vision of the relationship between the Baha’i community and the process of the unfoldment of Divine Civilization and the new World Order of Baha’u’llah. It includes such important letters as ‘‘The Dispensation of Baha’u’ll4h,’’ which describes the fundamentals of Baha’i belief, and ‘‘The Goal of a New World Order,”’ which assesses world conditions and outlines the general features of the inevitable results of the divine forces released by Baha’u’ll4h. Bahá’í Prayers
A selection of prayers revealed by Baha’u’ll4h, the Bab, and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Contains 177 prayers including the daily obligatory prayers, prayers for assistance, for families, children, youth, marriage, teaching, the Fund, and many more. Bahd’u'lláh and the New Era
A classic general introduction
to the Faith that gives an overview
of the Baha’i teachings and of the
history of the Faith. First printed
in the 1920s, the most recent edition contains updated statistics
and facts about the Baha’i community, new translations of passages from the Writings, and a
newereference list for further reading and study.
�[Page 13]
Resolution
from page 1
its accession to the Genocide Convention,” Sen. Dodd pointed out, “‘it is instructive to recall that the possibility for actual genocide to
occur has not been eliminated even eat to this supposedly enlightened
age.
“It can be argued that measures taken by the government of Iran against the Baha’i minority in recent years have, in fact, constituted the most recent example of
this horrendous crime against hu manity.
“Mr. President, it is time again to call the attention of the government of Iran to the international norms of civilized behavior.
“*By supporting our concurrent resolution, our colleagues can take a small step in trying to restrain and eliminate religious intolerance from this world. I urge my colleagues to do just that.””
On June 2, Reps. John Porter of Illinois and Tom Lantos ‘of California introduced a similar resolution in the House of Representatives (H. Con. Res. 310)
Pictured are some of the children who attended an Ayydm-i-Hd children’s party in Seattle, Wash
ington. Activities included prayers, refreshments, a pinata and
nature hunt.
High school grad, women’s conference, letters highlight growing press coverage
ww ~s PuBLic
INFORMATION
© Springfield, Massachusetts—
The Union-News published an article entitled ‘‘The 13th Year’’
about high school graduates who
spent a year out of school as a way
to pursue their goals before attending college. One of those interviewed, Negar Mottahedeh,
spent a year of service at the Baha’i World Center.
© Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania— The Press-Enterprise published an article about a women’s conference there. Featured was a photograph of Dr. Wilma Brady, administrator-general of the Baha’i International Community, presenting the keynote speech at the conference.
© Flint, Michigan—The Journal published a letter to the editor from the Spiritual Assembly of Flint, thanking the Journal for printing a previous letter about the 48 Bahá’ís in Egypt who were convicted for engaging in Baha’i activities and mentioning that 12 of them were acquitted and the rest scheduled to be re-tried. The letter stated that the cases were influenced by widespread publicity
such as appeared in Flint.
- Carlsbad, New Mexico—The
Current-Argus published a guest column by the secretary of the Spiritual Assembly of Carlsbad which answered commonly asked questions about the Faith.
© Orangeburg, South Carolina—The Times & Democrat published an article about the Baha’i International Convention and the attendance of Alberta Deas, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly and resident of South Carolina. Included was a photograph of most of the members of the U.S. National Spiritual Assembly standing in front of the Seat of the Universal House of Justice.
- New Orleans, Louisiana—The
Times-Picayune published an article about the Faith and the local Baha’i_ community which high summarized the Teachings of the Faith. Special attention was given to a long-time Baha’i, Mrs. Lee Blackwell. A reprint of the article was circulated by a financial institution which Mrs. Blackwell helped to found more than 35 years ago. The reprint included a note that Mrs. Blackwell had been the first secretary of the company.
HUQUQU’LLAH
“Tt is indeed a most excellent Savor, a boundless grace vouchsafed unto whosoever is privileged in this day to render service to the Cause of God and to offer the Right of God, for its goodly results and the fruits thereof will last as long as the kingdom of earth and heaven will endure. ”’—Bahá’u’lláh
Payments for Huququ’ll4h should be made to “‘Baha’i Huqtqu’ll4h Trust”’ and sent to one of the Trustees:
P.O. Box 927 Silver Spring, MD 20910
Tel: 301-589-8481
Santa Monica, CA 90402 Tel: 213-394-5449
Dr. Daryush Haghighi Rocky River, OH 44116 Tel: 216-333-1506
Inquiries regarding Huqiqu’ll4h should be referred to one of the Trustees or to:
Office of the Secretariat
Baha’i Huqiqu’ll4h Trust
Rocky River, OH 44116
with the co-sponsorship of 81 other members of the House also showing wide bi-partisan support.
Reps. Porter and Jim Leach of Iowa added remarks about the House resolution in the Congressional Record on June 3.
“«Iranian Bahá’ís have suffered severe persecution,” said Rep. Porter, “‘solely for their belief in the divine authority of the founder of the faith.
“*...it is time again,” he said, “for Congress to join over 100,000 American Baha’is in support of their brothers in Iran and elsewhere throughout the world.’”
“‘While there have been recent reports of the release of a number of Baha’is from prisons in Iran,”’ said Rep. Leach, ‘‘and while executions appear to have declined, the international community dares not be silent until all such grievous human rights abuses have ended.
“Far too fresh in our memories are the executions of over 200 Baha’is in Iran since 1979, the pattern of brutal torture and imprisonment, the desecration of property sacred to members of the faith, and the economic hardships visited upon the Baha’is.
“The terror which has befallen this vulnerable religious community is unconscionable.
“Until the campaign of religious persecution and genocide against the Baha’is comes to an end,” Rep. Leach added, ‘“‘this body and the executive branch have an obligation to monitor events in Iran, to work with other governments to bring pressure on Iranian authorities to cease their human rights violations, to press the case of the Baha’is in international fora, and to provide appropriate assistance to those fleeing persecution.””
A concurrent resolution is one that contains similar wording in both the Senate and House versions.
Hearings on the resolution, which was referred to a subcommittee of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, are expected to take place this summer.
The American Baha’i / July 1988 / 13
S. CON. RES. 120
Urging the Government of Iran to respect the human rights of ~members of the Bahá’í Faith, and for other purposes.
Whereas the Congress has, by concurrent resolutions adopted in 1982 and 1984, and in numerous other appeals, declared that it holds the Government of Iran responsible for upholding the rights of all its nationals, including members of the Baha’ faith, Iran’s largest religious minority;
Whereas the Congress has condemned the Government of Iran’s actions against the Baha’is on account of their religious beliefs, and has urged the President to work with appropriate foreign governments and with the United Nations in efforts to appeal to the Government of Iran concerning the Baha’is;
Whereas nearly 200 Iranian Bahd’{s, including many elected leaders of the religious community, have been executed since 1979, on account of their religious beliefs, thousands more have been imprisoned, and many subjected to torture and demands for recantation of their religious faith; and
Whereas the Government of Iran has not only undertaken to deprive Baha’ is of civil, economic, and social rights, but also has in many cases confiscated Baha’i community and personal property and denied access for Bahd’{s to education, employment, pensions, insurance, and other benefits available to other Iranians; Now, therefore be it
Resolved by the Senate (the House of Representatives concurring), that the Congress—
(1) continues to hold the Government of Iran responsible for upholding ihe rights of all its nationals, including Baha’is, in a manner consistent with the Government’s obligations under international agreements guaranteeing the civil and political rights of its citizens;
(2) welcomes reports of the recent release of Baha’ is from prisons in Iran and takes note of the decline in the numbers of Baha’ is and others executed in that country;
(3) expresses the hope that these developments may indicate a greater willingness on the part of the Government of Iran to act in a manner consistent with its obligations under the various international agreements to which it is a party;
(4) urges the Government of Iran to restore fully the rij guaranteed by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, including freedom of thought, conscience and religion, education, and equal protection of the law; and
(5) calls upon the President—
(A) to continue to observe and report on developments affecting the Baha’i minority in Iran, and to monitor developments affecting the Baha’is in countries in which their rights might be abridged on account of their religious beliefs;
(B) to cooperate with other governments in continuing to make appeals to the Government of Iran concerning the situation of the Baha’ is;
(O to initiate and support efforts in the United Nations and its agencies on behalf of measures to promote the protection of the religious rights of Baha’is; and
(D) to provide, and to urge others to provide, for refugee and humanitarian assistance for those Baha’is who flee their homelands for reasons of religious repression.
Sec. 2. The Secretary of the Senate shall transmit a copy of this concurrent resolution to the President.
Beatrice Ashton, ‘devoted handmaiden’ of Cause
SHARE DEEP SORROW PASSING DEVOTED HANDMAIDEN BAHA’U’LLAH BEATRICE OWENS ASHTON. IN HER TIRELESS, INCALCULABLE SERVICES FAITH SPANNING SEVEN DECADES FROM CLOSING YEARS HEROIC AGE, SHE DREW CONSTANT INSPIRATION FROM HER CONTACTS WITH BELOVED MASTER AND SHOGHI EFFENDI. HER EXTENSIVE TRAVELS IN EUROPE, HER PIONEERING TO ALBERTA, CANADA DURING TEN YEAR WORLD CRUSADE AND LATER SERVICES AT BAHA’i WORLD CENTER FOR RESEARCH DEPARTMENT COMBINED WITH ALL HER NUMEROUS ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIVITIES HAVE PRODUCED LEGACY EXEMPLARY SINGLEMINDED DEDICATION TO CAUSE TO WHICH SHE GAVE LAST MEASURE HER EARTHLY STRENGTH. EXTEND LOVING SYMPATHY HER DEAR FAMILY. ASSURE ARDENT PRAYERS HOLY SHRINES PROGRESS HER PRECIOUS SOUL
ABHA KINGDOM.
UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
Beatrice Owens Ashton, a Baha’i since 1920 who pioneered to Norway and Canada and served for two years in the 1970s in the Research Department at the Baha’i World Center in Haifa, Israel, died May 8 in Cleveland
MAY 10, 1988
Heights, Ohio, nine days short of her 98th birthday.
Mrs. Ashton, a 1911 graduate of Vassar College, was an editor and writer who in the 1940s and early 1950s edited ‘‘What’s New,”” the medical publication of Abbott
Times article cites persecutions From the Office of Public Information:
The New York Times published an article in its international section on May 26 about human rights. The article cites the persecution of Baha’is in Iran. An editorial about the report appeared the next day, mentioning among other things the persecution of Baha’is in Egypt and Iran.
Laboratories in Waukegan, Illinois.
After pioneering briefly to Norway in 1947, she made many overseas trips for the Faith at the request of the Guardian, Shoghi Effendi, helping fledgling local and National Spiritual Assemblies establish administrative procedures.
In 1959, despite her advancing age, she pioneered again, this time to rural Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada, where she labored tirelessly to bring the Message of Baha’u’llah to the residents.
Returning to the Cleveland area in 1967, she helped develop the Spiritual Assembly of Cleveland Heights on which she served until 1970.
Then, at the request of the Universal House of Justice, she moved the Baha’i World Center and spent the next two years working in the Research Department.
In 1972 an injury forced her to return to Cleveland Heights where she continued to serve on the Assembly and to lead classes on the Faith in her apartment.
In her 90s, she embarked on a
mammoth project, that of preparing a detailed and elaborately
cross-referenced index to The
Dawn-breakers, which she completed some four years later.
�[Page 14]
14 / The American Baha’i / July 1988
™ Covenant
“The Covenant of Baha'u'llah, the 100th anniversary of the inception of which will be commemorated in 1992, must be the subject of sustained and concentrated study. instituted by the Revealer of God’s Word in this Day to direct and canalize the forces released by His Revelation, the Covenant in essence guarantees the continuation of divine guidance after the ascension of the Manifestation through the presence in the world of an institution to which all the friends must turn.
“So important for the development of the Faith at this time is the understanding of the Covenantin all its aspects that it has been designated as a major theme of the Six Year Plan.” The Universal House of Justice, letter dated 25 December 1987
To help Baha'is study the Covenant, the Baha'i Distribution Service now has available a new compilation, two new
books, and a study book on the topic. Each work offers a different perspective on the Covenant, a different facet of a precious jewel. Each facet is valuable and complements the other one.
The Covenant
Anew compilation from the Research Department of the Universal House of Justice
SC $2.50
The Covenant contains 46 extracts from the Baha'i writings, several published for the first time, that convey the essential elements of the Covenant. The Universal House of Justice hopes that this compilation will not only deepen our understanding and love for the Covenant, but also increase our level of conviction and our loyalty to the Cause and its institutions.
The extracts are arranged in six sections. Some deal with the Greater Covenant between God and the human race and some focus on the Lesser Covenant that Baha'u'llah made with his followers regarding ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá perpetuated through the Administrative Order. Included are
© The Nature of the Covenant © The Lesser Covenant Perpetuated by ‘Abdu'l The Greater Covenant Baha
- The Lesser Covenant Made ‘* Our Response to the Lesser Covenant
by Baha'u'llah ‘* The Power of the Covenant
The index and the numbered extracts make this compilation an excellent resource for a “concentrated study” of “the essential elements” of the Covenant by individuals and by groups.
Published by the U.K. Baha'i Pubishing Trust
The Power of the Covenant
These three booklets—Baha’u’llah’s Covenant with Mankind, The Problem of Covenant-Breaking, and The Face of Opposition—have been reprinted with a new cover design and packaged as a set.
The Power of the Covenant was written in 1976 as a response to a letter from the Universal House of Justice urging individuals and communities to begin to deepen on the Covenant and to prepare themselves for the great wave of opposition that will confront the Baha'i communities as they emerge from obscurity. These booklets contain extracts from the Baha'i writings plus an in-depth analysis of the Covenant and the internal and external opposition that will confront the Faith.
(For more information onthese booklets see p. 18 of the April American Baha'i.) Published by the Baha’i Publications Canada
The Covenant Its Meaning and Origin and Our Attitude Toward It
As a self-contained study book on the Covenant (similar in format to The Word of God), this book will greatly assist Baha'is in their study of the “profound concepts" of Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation.
A letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi states: “The principles, administration and fundamentals of the Faith are well known, but the friends need greatly to study the more profound works which would give them spiritual maturity to a greater degree, unify their ‘community life, and enable them to better exemplify the Baha'i way of living...”
‘The Covenant is part of a National Teaching Committee series, the purpose of which is to "draw the reader into a study of the profound concepts found in the Baha'i Revelation. It is also intended to serve as a bridge leading to expanded study of the writings of Baha'u'llah, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, and Shoghi Effendi.
This work contains extracts from the Baha'i writings, plus commentary of different aspects of the Covenant such as the meaning of the Covenant, the Covenant of God, the Covenant of Baha'u'llah, the Covenant of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the purpose of Bahá’u’lláh’s Covenant, our attitude toward the Covenant, and Covenant-breaking. Each section includes definitions of some of the more important or difficult words, plus questions and answers. The index at the end of the book has references that go beyond the quotations covered in the lessons and offers a valuable starting point for an extended study of the Covenant.
The Covenant is designed both for group or individual study. It can be used as a resource for preparing for firesides, public talks, or seminars at Baha'i schools.
By the National Teaching Committee of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United States
The Eternal Covenant
By Lowell Johnson
Toa COVENANT
Paid |
Having lived in Africa for many years and traveled in many Third World countries, Mr. Johnson has used those experiences in writing this book. Not only does The Eternal Covenant clearly explain what the Covenant is and how Baha'u'llah fulfils it, but it also addresses a wide range of topics that relate to the Covenant, such as unity, virtue and how to acquire it, the science of the love of God, the challenges ahead, and eternal life. There is an especially interesting section on virtue and the Hand of the Cause of God Louis G. Gregory. The books contains ‘Many extracts from the Baha'i writings * Simple summaries plus prayers and plus in-depth commentary meditations at end of each chapter
- Stories of the author's experiences in * An appendix that contains even more inAfrica depth information for the interested
Pictures, color charts, and illustrations reader
This book is for anyone who would like to be guided through the Covenant or who needs a resource book for preparing children’s and adult classes. From the National Literature Committee of the Baha'is of South and West Africa,
Lowel}
Johusoy,
HC $19.95
The Creative Word
New pocket-size
By Baha'u'llah
of pee rear ai
PS $4.50
Tablets of Baha’u’llah
Shoghi Effendi characterized the sixteen Tablets included in Tablets of Baha’u’llah, all revealed after the formulation of the laws and ordinances of the Kitab-iAqdas, as “mighty and final effusions of His [Bahá’u’lláh’s] indefatigable pen.” They are Tablets that “must rank among the choicest fruits which His mind has yielded, and mark the consummation of His forty-year-long ministry.’ These significant and much-loved Tablets include the Book of the Covenant, the Most Holy Tablet, the Glad Tidings, the Tablet of the World, and the Tablet of Wisdom. Now available for the first time in a pocket-sized edition.
From the U.S. Bahai Publishing Trust
By Barb
Ff. Shanks cs $9.95
The Victory
The Victory breaks new ground in expressing the spirit of the
Baha’i writings with music!
It was created to encourage the be lievers to draw closer to the covenant and to be steadfast. Several of the songs such as The Covenant,
}Clinging to the Cord, and The Vic“tory relate directly to the Covenant.
(The Victory was a theme song of the International Youth Conference in
, Indiana.) The lyrics in eight of the ten songs are quotations from the writ ings of the Central Figures or the Universal House of Justice.
Upbeat and contemporary, Barb Shank's exquisite voice is enhanced by the beautiful ensemble of voices and powerful musical arrangements: including horns, keyboard, strings, and percussion. The sensitive use of jazz, gospel, and—yes—even a touch of rock express the Baha'i spirit of diversity that will have you listening again and again.
2 Produced by Donna Kime and Barb Shanks
New reference tool
Compiled by Lee Nelson
HC $49.95
A Concordance To the Writings Of Baha’u’llah
The new reference work, A Concordance to the Writings of Baha'u'llah, is now available. This is a giant of a book, and it can enable you to take on giant tasks. Itis 8Y2" x 11" and 2” thick and has over 160,000 references to the key words in nearly all of the published English writings of Baha'u'llah. It is indexed to 9 books and 24 compilations. AConcordance can help you find a favorite passage; research specific subjects; prepare deepenings and compilations; prepare readings for firesides, Feasts, and Holy Days; explore and study the variety of meanings of words and groups of similar words; and enhance your understanding of the writings of Baha'u'llah.
From the U.S. Baha'i Publishing Trust
New Music Cassettes
é
By Gregory Paul
cs $8.50
THiS i
This Is the Day
This Is the Day, a musical tribute to the spirituality of the people of the Caribbean!
The 12 songs, each by a different composer, reflect the cultural diversity of the Caribbean as well as its people's spirituality and love of life. Among the selections are two moving historical ballads called Babis of Tabarsi and The Poisoning (of Baha'u'llah); three Baha'i prayers and a poem by the Greatest Holy Leaf put to music; a light-hearted calypso that refers to Baha'i history; a song in Haitian Creole about the year 1844, when the Bab declared; a song in Spanish about living happily; a song in Sranan Tongo about the coming of Baha'u'llah; a catchy Dixieland tune about unity; and a marvelous tune in Brazilian style that was inspired by the words of Baha'u'llah.
Gregory Paul's warm and soulful voice, coupled with his diverse musical styles, makes this an enjoyable listening event!
TEP DAY
- Available through your
�[Page 15]
The American Baha’i / July 1988 / 15
New Books
Personal development
Drops from the Ocean
By Henry A. Weil
The late Henry Weil, author of Closer Than My Life’s Vein, provides a thought-provoking discussion of the Baha'i sacred writings as they relate to such subjects as God, prayer, the Manifestations, spirit, intellect, the soul, wealth and poverty, heaven and hell, inner vision, dreams, and much more.
Mr. Weil supports his insights with many extracts from the Baha'i writings and provides ‘‘procedures’’ for applying these insights to everyday situations.
From the Baha'i Publishing Trust of India
SC $4.95
Finding the Real You By Viv Bartlett
Exploring the feeling “There is something missing in my life” is the focus of this book. Mr. Bartlett stresses, “‘If you ignore these inner feelings of ‘something missing’ you do so at your own peril.”
Filled with short quotations from the Baha’i writings and a variety of stories, each chapter offers insights into how to begin and continue the unfolding process of Self awareness that leads to happiness and spiritual contentment.
Finding the Real You is for those youth and adults who are con cerned with
e Uncovering their higher Self
Letting go of addictions to alcohol, drugs, sex, or material possessions
Investigating the Baha'i Faith or questioning the existence of God
From George Ronald, Publisher
SC $7.50
Finding the Re al You Ke HS Be HES Bt ERE Ha Re
New Teaching Video The Baha’i Faith: An Introduction
This 45-minute program provides a powerful glimpse of Bahá’u’lláh's vision for humanity. Screen actor Alex Rocco narrates this introduction to the teachings of the Baha’i Faith. We meet his diverse American “‘family’’ of Baha'is from New York City to the Navajo Reservation, from South Carolina to San Diego who share by word and example what their glorious Faith means to them. Entertaining and informative, The Baha’i Faith: An Introduction is great for firesides and individual teaching!
From Unlimited Visions Productions.
VHF or Beta $29.95
Kk kk Job Openings ek Marketing Manager
Applications are being accepted for the position of marketing manager for the Baha'i Publishing Trust and Distribution Service. Responsibilities of the position include: Planning and executing marketing activities, ordering all books and materials from other vendors, overseeing customer service activities, and participating in decisions relating to the Publishing Trust's publishing program.
Editor for the Baha’i Writings
Applications are also being accepted for the position of editor for the Baha'i writings at the Baha’i Publishing Trust. Responsibilities include: Assisting with the development of a strategy for the publication of the Baha'i writings and compilations; recruiting compilers; critiquing manuscripts and obtaining reader critiques; editing compilations and ensuring the accuracy of the Baha'i writings published by the Publishing Trust; and assisting in the organization of editorial projects and in preparing editorial schedules.
For more information about either job please contact the Office of Human Resources, Baha'i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, 1-312-869-9039.
Baha’ Distribution Service
New Book
‘A new teaching tool for youth and adults!
Nothing In Common By Cindy Savage
SC $4.95
Nothing In Common, a wonderful introduction to the Baha'i Faith, is the story of one young woman's search for truth and her discovery of the beauty and challenge of the Baha’i mes sage.
¢ Seekers of all ages will enjoy this easy-to-read and informative presentation of the Faith.
¢ Young people will find encouragement to hold tightly to Baha'i standards as they confront the peer pressures of dating, drugs, and backbiting.
e New and veteran Baha’is will experience some of their own joys and excitement of investigating the Faith as they follow Katie's search.
Katie's search takes her on an adventure that brings her from feeling slightly out of sync with the crowd to realizing that it is her differentness that gives her strength. Katie finds her own place in her new religion and learns that she can help show the rest of the world that all people have a lot in common.
Author Cindy Savage has three novels for teenagers in print that have sold nearly a quarter of a million copies and has five more scheduled for publication in the coming months.
Published by the U.S. Baha'i Publishing Trust
Bahá’í Distribution Service ORDER FORM
415 Laden ere
Warmette 6009 Date ‘ORDERED BY. ‘SHIP TO: erent)
Name Name
adress Kaaress
Gy ‘State Zip Gy ‘State Zp you have questions please call :800-323-1880,
Home Phone No. Work Phone No.
‘Type: Hard Cover, Soft Cover, Poster, Cassette, Card, etc.
Title
Quantity
Price | Amount
\Cnacho Money Orso Manecxre
VISA. MasirCard Expwaton cae, Total
Tab 7/88
Can | have new items automatically sent to me? Yes! These are called standing orders, and many of our customers use them. Just request a standing order form, fill in the kinds of books and other items that you want, give us your credit card number, and we will automatically send you the new materials as we get them.
415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091
New toll-free number 1-800-999-9019
�[Page 16]
16 / The American Baha’i / July 1988
Letters
from page 3
ing ourselves by strumming up a tune.
The treble we have is that we haven’t yet come together and combined our talents for the world to hear. In other words, we're talking about an album— one composed of different songs by different Baha’is.
Diversity in style and music, yet one theme: the Baha’ theme. Not so much as “‘religious’’ music, but Baha’i attitude music—the kind the general public can listen to and feel comfortable with.
Some of us already have A-maJor name in the music world, while others are virtually unknown, yet we may have a song we consider good enough to make it in the big world,
Here is our chance. The keynote is unity; working together in harmony to amplify the cry of the Cause and increase the volume of believers.
If we can bass it on our Faith, and drum up enough interest to C even A-minor change in the world’s attitude, we’re that much closer to seeing the old world order B-diminished and the new one
blossom.
So let’s record our songs and send them all to one place where we can put together an album. We can donate our talents to the Cause and donate the profits to the Arc.
Your help is desperately needed: people in the music business who have the facilities, the connections, the marketing and promotional skills, as well as the song writers, performers and production talent, we especially call on you to help.
This is a grand opportunity for us to become more octave in teaching the Faith.
Entry by troops is just around the corner, so let us tone ourselves up for this important verse in history, for the Baha’i World Order can’t B-suspended much longer.
If interested in this wonderful project, please contact William Tucker, RR 3, Box 10, Archer, FL 32618.
William Tucker Archer, Florida
Don’t drop accent marks
To the Editor:
I am writing in response to a letter from John Ives (March) concerning the use of the Baha’i calendar.
I agree with Mr. Ives’ sugges tion that we should use the Baha’i calendar more frequently in our daily lives.
I disagree, however, with his suggestion that we drop the apostrophes and accent marks from Persian words.
Such accent marks are not only a part of the Persian language, they are a part of Spanish and other languages as well.
Accent marks on Persian words help me (and other Hispanic Bahá’ís) to pronounce a Persian word more correctly without having to ask a Persian Baha’i to pronounce it for us.
Raiil Herndndez
N. St. Louis County, Missouri
Make room for ‘feelings’ To the Editor:
I have been following the debate on racism in the Baha’i community, and feel there are more subtle and fundamental issues at work here than what has heretofore been expressed.
In the book Equal Circles there is an essay by Gloria Haithman, “On Being Black, Female, and Baha’i in America.”’ In the American Baha’i community that I have experienced, which is primarily the white American Baha’i community, there is, as Ms. Haithman also points out, an emphasis on
The Louis G. Gregory Unity Choir, directed by Trish Reed
(right), presents one of its two spirited performances for dele gates and guests at the 79th Bahá’í National Convention in Wilmette.
Spirits are high as Louis Gregory Unity Choir charms delegates, guests at 79th Convention
The spirit enveloped Foundation Hall and overflowed into every nook and cranny of the Baha’i House of Worship as the Louis G. Gregory Unity Choir from South Carolina made an unannounced but thoroughly welcome appearance at the 79th Baha’i National Convention in May.
The choir actually performed twice, on Saturday afternoon and again that evening, each time eliciting a standing ovation from delegates and guests at the Convention.
After the choir’s first performance, Dr. Roy Jones, director of the Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute, explained how it had come into being as a result of the establishment three years ago of the Louis Gregory Baha’i Youth Academ;
‘y “We simply wanted to look at the cotton fields, and the corn fields, and the tobacco fields of South Carolina,”’ he said, ‘‘and begin to draw from that population and develop these youth,
“So ... we looked at ages 14-18 specifically, and we said that we wanted to have not an academic program but a spiritual enrichment program.
“*,..we began to concentrate on a program that would focus on adolescent behavior, on peer pressure, on the family as principal to the Youth Academy. ...
“We looked at education and its role. Job training, career development are all a part of the Youth Academy preparation.
“But it is the spiritual foundation, which is already there, that needs to come out and be nurtured.””
One aspect of nurturing the spiritual foundation was to form the Louis G. Gregory Youth
Choir, which has performed at many events in South Carolina, both for Baha’i and non-Baha’i audiences.
The choir is directed by Trish Reed, who, it was pointed out, makes a 75-mile round trip twice each week for rehearsals.
“You'll never know ... you'll never really understand,”’ said Dr. Jones, “‘what it meant for this choir to be on stage here and singing for you. You'll never really know what it meant—what it requires.
“It requires spiritual discipline. It requires commitment. You have to know that this was not just any thing here; this is something special.
“So I thank you for greeting them the way you greeted them. That made the difference. They felt at home. They knew there was a connection here—from the cotton fields of South Carolina.””
the presentation of information rather than the sharing of feelings.
Everyone is expected to conform to a standard of behavior that is calm and businesslike. The avenue of communication is the intellect.
This is the expression of European culture that America has adopted as its own. In such a culture, anything to do with feelings is suppressed and distrusted. Any emotional discharge is viewed with suspicion. For example, I was trained from an early age that “big boys don’t cry.””
Thus at the typical Baha’i Feast, as both I and Ms. Haithman have observed, the normal mode of communication is for one person to talk while everyone else silently listens.
There is seldom any music and mever any group singing. Anything to do with the expression of feelings is studiously avoided. Even the ‘“‘clash of differing opinions’’ must be done in a calm, controlled manner lest consultation get out of hand.
In her essay, Ms. Haithman contrasts this with a black church, where if a minister were to speak and his congregation was to listen silently, he would feel that there was something terribly wrong with him.
If the membership were not free to weep, shout and give back to the minister in an open and demonstrative way their feelings, he would have no idea how he was doing and would be left with no guidance as to where to go next in his sermon.
If there were no music or group singing, the service would be devoid of any spirit and the church would die.
With music and participatory listening, the spontaneity would be lost, improvisation would die, sharing would wither, freedom would be repressed, and the emo tional release of the spirit of one’s soul to soar to the heights of ecstasy in its love for God would never happen.
I feel that the American Baha’i community would do well to recognize that there is much to be learned from the way in which the Afro-American culture obtains emotional release in its worship of God.
We must also recognize that the European culture in which feelings are suppressed, and which we have adopted in our worship services, does not reflect the Baha’i goal of unity in diversity. Various styles should be reflected in the Baha’i community.
Richard Meier St. Louis, Missouri
Baha’i inducted into prestigious SMU honor society
Cyrus Peikari, a member of the Baha’i community of Dallas, Texas, was recently inducted into the Robert Stewart Hyer Society at Southern Methodist University.
The society, named in honor of the first president of SMU, is the school’s most prestigious academic organization for undergraduates.
To be considered for induction, students must have at least a 3.85 grade-point average. In addition to this and other criteria, candidates are required to submit an essay on a topic chosen each year by a committee of five faculty members.
This year’s topic had to do with the decline in individual participation in the institutions of society (i.e., voting to volunteerism).
The Hyer Society inducts up to 25 students each year. This year, however, only 18 of 41 candidates were inducted.
Spanish-speaking delegate wins hearts at Convention for courage, loving manner
A special bounty for delegates to this year’s Bahá’í National Convention was the presence of a delegate from California’s Salinas Valley.
That delegate was Dofia Carmen Rodriguez Cruz, who, like an estimated several million other Americans, does not speak English.
Her mother tongue is Spanish, and her presence as a delegate was evidence of a growing participation in the affairs of the Cause by a significant minority in the U.S.—Hispanics who do not speak English.
Shy by nature, it was an especially brave gesture on Mrs. Rodriguez Cruz’ part to arise to address the Convention.
After expressing her joy at being able to attend, she said, “Baha’u’ll4h came and stole my heart right away from me. But that is okay, because He gave mea new heart, a better one.””
Her eloquent and moving statement was translated into English for the benefit of delegates who do not speak Spanish by a fellow delegate, Jorge Nossa of New York.
Mrs. Rodriguez Cruz became a Baha’i in 1980 through the efforts of a teaching project. Her Baha’i teachers took special care to help her deepen in the Faith.
Like many of the Baha’ is in the Salinas Valley, Mrs. Rodriguez
CARMEN RODRIGUEZ CRUZ
Cruz does not read or write. However, she listened intently as she was taught, memorized prayers, and became a firm believer in Baha’u’ lah.
Last year, the seventh of her 10 children became a Baha’i.
Mrs. Rodriguez Cruz was deeply moved by being in the House of Worship, and by the new friends she met at the National Convention.
Since her visit to Wilmette she
says she has been on fire with the
desire to travel to teach the Cause.
She has begun to go out teaching
on her own, and has a personal
goal of visiting every Baha’i in the
Salinas Valley to share a Convention report.
�[Page 17]
The American Baha’i / July 1988 / 17
Convention
from page |
derson, Chester Kahn, Firuz Kazemzadeh, William Maxwell, Jack McCants, Dorothy Nelson and James Nelson.
The National Assembly met during the dinner hour on Saturday to elect its officers for the coming year and announced the results to the Convention later that evening.
Prolonged applause greeted the announcement that Judge Dorothy Nelson had been elected chairman, She is the first woman to hold that position since Dorothy Baker in the late 1940s.
The other officers are: Judge James Nelson, vice-chairman; Dr. Robert Henderson, secretary; William Davis, treasurer; and Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh, secretaryExternal Affairs.
Once elected, the National Spiritual Assembly ‘‘hit the ground running’ with its new teaching plan, the broad outline of which was presented in last month’s issue of The American Bahá’í.
In brief, it calls for a dozen regional conferences whose main purposes will be (1) to initiate large-scale teaching campaigns in at least four metropolitan areas to be chosen at a later date, and (2)
Convention: A time to renew old friendships.
to inspire an unprecedented outpouring of funds for completion of the Arc on Mount Carmel and for the achievement of the goals of the National Baha’i Fund.
Two former members of the Universal House of Justice, David Hofman and Borrah Kavelin, have been invited and have agreed to take part in the regional conferences. Also invited were the architect and project manager of the Arc Project, Husayn Amanat and Fariburz Sabha.
The teaching campaigns, said Dr. Henderson, will serve as a prelude to that ‘entry by troops,” as the Universal House of Justice said in its Riḍván message, “promised by the beloved Master and which Shoghi Effendi said would lead on to mass conversion.””
Members of the National Spiritual Assembly also shared with the delegates and guests their impressions of the sixth Baha’i International Convention which was held April 29-May 2 at the World Center in Haifa, Israel.
The World Center was represented at the Convention’s opening session Thursday evening with an audio-visual presentation, “The Fourth Epoch Opens.””
Also represented was the Continental Board of Counselors for the Americas, three of whose members—Dr. Wilma Brady,
%
SUMMONED AND DIRECTED BY THE EXTRAORDINARY MESSAGE OF THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE, WE, THE ASSEMBLED DELEGATES OF THE 79TH CONVENTION OF THE AMERICAN BAHA’i COMMUNITY, BLESSED BY THE PRESENCE OF COUNSELORS BRADY, HARRIS AND SCHECHTER; HONORED GUESTS, MRS. KHADEM AND MRS. WOLCOTT, AND ENTHUSIASTIC GROUP OF YOUTH OBSERVERS, ARE INVIGORATED WITH CONFIDENCE AS WE VISUALIZE THE ONCOMING RAPID EXPANSION OF OUR COMMUNITY. NEWLY ALERTED TO THE RIPENESS AND URGENCY OF THIS TIME, DELEGATES VIED IN EAGERNESS TO SUPPORT THE TEACHING PLAN PRESENTED BY THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY. YOUR BLESSINGS SUPPLICATED IN OUR ACTIONS TO REDEEM THE SACRIFICES OF OUR IRANIAN BROTHERS AND SISTERS AS WE REAFFIRM OUR INSTANT, COMPLETE AND EXACT OBEDIENCE. DELEGATES ATTENDING THE 79TH BAHA'I NATIONAL CONVENTION
JOYOUSLY WELCOME UNITED’ CONFIDENT SPIRIT CONVEYED YOUR CONVENTION MESSAGE. FERVENTLY PRAYING HOLY THRESHOLD YOUR RESOLVE CARRY FORWARD NEW TEACHING PLAN PRESENTED YOUR NATIONAL ASSEMBLY MAY WIN GOOD PLEASURE LORD OF HOSTS EMPOWERING DEARLY LOVED AMERICAN BAHA’{ COMMUNITY TO MOVE RAPIDLY TOWARDS NEXT TRIUMPHANT STAGE ITS ENVIABLE DESTINY. UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE MAY 23, 1988
Counselor Wilma Brady addresses delegates at the 79th Bahá’í National Convention.
Robert Harris and Fred Schechter—addressed the Convention on Friday afternoon.
Other highlights of the Convention included:
© Two performances on Saturday by the Louis G. Gregory Unity Choir from South Carolina.
© Special presentations on this summer’s International Youth Conference in Bloomington, Indiana, and the second Bahda’i World Congress to be held in 1992 in New York, the City of the Covenant.
© The disclosure by Dr. Kazemzadeh during the annual report of the Office of External Affairs that Sen. Christopher Dodd of Connecticut would introduce on May 23, the anniversary of the Declaration of the Bab, a concurrent resolution calling on the government of Iran to respect the human rights of Baha’is in that country (see article on this page).
- The election by the delegates
of Judge Dorothy Nelson as permanent chairman of the Convention, making her the first woman to serve in that capacity since Dorothy Baker in 1949.
- The presence of 24 “youth
representatives’? from various
parts of the country who were chosen for that honor at their District
Conventions and who
Lakota Baha'i Kevin Locke plays the flute at Northwestern University.
were allowed on Saturday morning to witness the election of the National Spiritual Assembly.
© A reception and guided tour of the Baha’i National Center for delegates and guests.
Consultation, by all accounts, reached a level of maturity and focus unequaled at past Conventions, with the delegates eager to respond to the many challenges that lie ahead and to help pave the way for unprecedented growth of the Cause in this country during the remaining years of this century.
Above: For these youngsters, Foundation Hall was a great place for dancing. Below: Sarah M. Pe The National Spiritual Assembly, in its annual report, pointed to “‘a frustrating lack of growth” as the one dark aspect in a year of “dramatic developments, and of strong signs of progress.”
As Dr. Henderson pointed out in his remarks on Friday morning, the National Assembly’s response to that challenge, after fervent prayers at the Shrines during the International Convention, was its new teaching plan, a plan that received immediate, enthusiastic and unanimous endorsement from the delegates.
reira, a delegate from western North Carolina, makes a point during consultation.
�[Page 18]
18 / The American Baha’i / July 1988
CLASSIFIEDS
Classified notices in The American Baha’i are published free of charge as a service to the Bahá’í community. Because of this, notices are limited to items relating to the Faith; no personal or commercial messages can be accepted Sor publication. The opportunities referred to have not been approved by the National Spiritual Assembly; the friends should exercise their own judgment in responding to them.
.
EMPLOYMENT
SOUTH AFRICA needs a retired, self-supporting couple to serve its National Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds in Johannesburg as administrative assistant and caretaker. New cottage is being built on the property. Please include computer experience, etc. in resumé. National Spiritual Assembly of South Africa,
South Africa.
plicants to work in aviation business 30 hours per week and 20 hours/week on Baha’i administration and teaching. Total pay is $5/hour (i.e., $250 per week). Aviation work is promotional, clerical, research and telephone contact; Baha’i work is administrative and clerical as well as public relations. Knowledge of airplanes is desirable but not mandatory. Must be dedicated, outgoing Baha’. Typing is required and computer experience is helpful. Contact Helen Hauck, International Aircraft Corp.,
Homestead, FL 33030, or phone 305-245-1000.
PIONEERING (HOMEFRONT)
ALTAMONTE Springs, Florida, has five adult Baha’is and would like to be able to form an Assembly. The area has good employment opportunities, and I have two rooms to rent in my home. Please phone Antoinette Bianchi, 407-788-1503.
WE ARE working to establish an Assembly in St. Matthews, Kentucky, and invite your help. St. Matthews, a city within the metropolitan Louisville area, has full access to big-city cultural, educational, medical and employment opportunities. Our hardworking Baha’i Group longs for a family who can settle here permanently, singles who can help us teach, ‘or anyone who wants the special challenge of helping to establish a brandnew Assembly. If you’re attracted to serving the Faith in Kentucky, please get in touch with us: Baha’is of Louisville, c/o Marilyn Sykes,
Louisville, KY 40223.
DEMING, New Mexico, on Interstate 10 an hour from Lordsburg and Las Cruces, is the extension teaching goal for the District Teaching Committee of Southern New Mexico/West Texas. If you travel by it, please stop and say prayers, and, if you can, drop us a card to let us know you did it. If you have time to stop, contact Liz Arrambide, Anthony, NM 88021, or phone 505-8825670, We have several seekers and believers who would love a visit. Some speak Spanish and some speak English.
ALEXANDRIA, a warm, friendly and caring community of 12,000 in central Minnesota, needs five adult Bahá’ís to form an Assembly. Alexandria, a small town in the midst of rich, rolling farm lands, has excellent transportation, communication, educational and health facilities as well as a solid economic base. Traffic jams, smog and drugs have no hold here yet.
We are teaching as we await your artival. Contact: DTC of Northern Minnesota, Aitkin, MN $6431.
HELP US win important goals for the Six Year Plan on the U.S./Mexico border. The District Teaching Committee of Southern New Mexico/West Texas needs homefront pioneers in areas where Assemblies are being elected but are not functioning. If interested in receiving a descriptive list of the 12 Assembly areas that need pioneers, please write to Liz Arrambide, Anthony, NM 88021. Teachers, nurses, Spanish-speaking people, returning pioneers from Spanish-speaking areas, and college students are especially needed, but we need and welcome everyone who wants to come.
PIONEERING (OVERSEAS)
AMERICAN Samoa has an opening for a family nurse practitioner or physician’s assistant. Jobs include rotation through the ER field clinics as sole practitioner, and the goal area of Ta’u, Manua Islands. Two-year contract, U.S. $19,200 per year, plus moving and travel expenses. For more information, contact the Office of Pioneering, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312869-9039.
AMERICAN Samoa has positions for secondary school teachers of English, science and math. Two-year contract, U.S. $12,000 per year plus housing, moving expenses. Also, positions for elementary school teachers with a private school. For more information, contact the Office of Pioneering, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.
MARSHALL Islands: (1) Managing director for newly established Development Bank. Assignment is to lead a team of six full-time officers in setting up operations. Applicants should have experience in credit and investment in development banking in the Third World. (2) Chief fisheries officer to work as the leading technical expert in the Ministry of Resources and Development, including spearheading the development of fisheries activities into a major commercial sector of the economy. Applicants should have extensive fisheries development experience in small tropical fisheries. (3) Chief agricultural officer to work as chief technical officer in the agricultural and animal husbandry division within the Ministry of Resources and Development, including development of viable agricultural and husbandry projects in atoll conditions. For more information about any of these positions, contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahd’{ National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-8699039.
INFORMATION is available on Pacific Rim Management Programs— a cooperative venture of the International Business Education and Research (IBEAR) program and the Office of Management Development programs of USC’s Graduate School of Business Administration. The programs are designed for senior man‘agers and executives who are preparing for assignment to Asia/Pacific, considering entering an Asia/Pacific market, etc. Participants are often responsible for business development, regional or national operations, marketing, sales, sourcing, or strategic planning in Asia/Pacific. For complete details, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312869-9039.
PUERTO Rico: companion needed, preferably with some nursing or home care background, to live with an 86year-old pioneer in good health, Room and board are provided, but will need own funds for personal expenses. Great opportunity to take part in a teaching project too. For more information, contact the Office of Pio
neering, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312-869-9039).
FOR SALE
“THE UNTAPPED Reservoir,” the April 29-30 Regional Conference sponsored by the National Committee ‘on Women, was audio recorded and cassette tapes are now available. The conference, held in Phoenix, Arizona, dealt with issues of importance to all women but also specifically focused on concerns of American Indian and Hispanic women. Outstanding contributions by Jacqueline Delahunt and Dr. Homa Mahmoudi plus many others, Write today for your free listing: Images International, P.O. Box 1051, Dept. AB, Belchertown, MA 01007.
THE NEWEST index to Brilliant ‘Star magazine for March/April 1987 through January/February 1988 is now available. Send $2 to Subscriber Service, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. Past indexes are also available; please specify year.
BAHA’I literature in English: 18page descriptive catalog contains almost 600 titles, more than 600 of which are not available from conventional sources. Send $1 or four 25-cent stamps to help cover costs to the Los Angeles Bahá’í Bookshop, 5755 Rodeo Road, Los Angeles, CA 90016 (phone 213-933-8291).
ARE YOU longing to see our American Baha’i community become the close-knit, loving, supportive entity that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá envisioned? If your heart longs for help in achieving this, listening to Richard Thomas’ talk given at the Project Massachusetts Conference on April 17, 1988, is a must! He discusses eloquently the importance of Bahá’ís moving beyond a superficial community life, He honestly and lovingly describes the existing barriers, from an historical perspective, between classes, races and sexes and between Persians and Americans, and gives practical suggestions on how to overcome these barriers. Dr. Thomas stresses the extreme importance of Baha'is as agents of social change and beseeches us to meet our obligations on these issues, as set forth in the Writings, so that the progress of the Faith is not impeded. Moving and vital. Available for $7.99 (plus $1 for shipping and handling) from Images International, P.O. Box 1051, Dept. AB, Belchertown, MA 01007.
HIGH-quality audio cassettes: No. MM/1, the Hand of the Cause of God William Sears in Vancouver, B.C., to mark the 75th anniversary of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit to Canada ($6); No. MM/2, Ernestine Berkey, ‘The Most Vital and Challenging Issue: A Mandate and a Commitment,’ from Seattle’s Black and Indian Teaching Seminar ($6); No. MM/3-4, management consultant Lawrence Miller, ‘“Barbarians to Bureaucrats,” from the Northwest Assembly Training Seminar in Seattle (two tapes, $12). Also, The Western Washington Bahá’í Resource Directory ($4), which contains business, service and skills listings of regional Bahá’ís, Assembly directory, “Bahd’é committees, treasurer’s reps, libraries, Centers, bulletins, Bahá’í clubs, etc. Thinking of doing one for your area? Check out ours. Order Srom Greater Seattle Bahá’í Metro‘Media, P.O. Box 396, Seattle, WA 98111.
BACK ISSUES of Brilliant Star magazine are available from Subscribex Service. Send $2 per issue (specifying issue) to Subscriber Service, Baha'i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.
MORRIS Taylor’s talk, ‘““Foibles of the Formative Age,” from the 1986 {Green Lake (Wisconsin) Conference, is now on sale for $7.50. This is a humorous account of some flaws of the Formative Age with an important message—we must look at our mis takes with a sense of humor while working diligently to learn from and overcome them. Send $7.50 plus $1 for shipping and handling to Images International, P.O. Box 1051, Dept. AB, Belchertown, MA 01007.
GREAT gift idea! For Baha’i children and their friends. Send a subscription to Brilliant Star magazine: $12 for one year, $23 for two years, Send to Subscriber Service, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.
SCHOOLS
THE AMOZ Gibson Training Centre in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, will present an intensive three-week course this summer entitled ‘‘Media Technology for Development Communication,” conducted by K. Dean Stephens, professor of development communication at the Centre. Six classes per day will be offered, six days each week, for a total of 122 hours of instruction—the equivalent of six academic credits. The Amoz Gibson Centre has graduated students from more than 25 developing countries including members of National Spiritual Assemblies, non-literate villagers, university professors, and youth Year-of-Service volunteers. Throughout each training session, participants are immersed in a multi-cultural environment designed to foster a spirit of cooperation and service, in addition to providing instruction in specific knowledge and skills. For more information and course reservations, please write to the Amoz Gibson Training Centre, HC-02 Box 14765, Arecibo, PR 00612, or phone 809-878-4189 before 9 p.m. EST.
RIGHT now, undiscovered, there are many historical letters, documents, programs, course outline photographs, tape recordings, furniture, relics and the like relating to the Green Acre Baha’i School. These documents are in the hands of Bahd’{s as well as non-Baha’j relatives who are unaware of their significance. As Green Acre works on its restoration, it feels the need to embark on a “‘treasure hunt”’ to collect historical records of the school as well as personal accounts of experiences from those who have attended sessions at Green Acre. Our goals are to help in making an accurate restoration, to produce a commemorative book, a thorough history of the school, and well-organized archives for future Baha’is before these records slip through our fingers forever. Please share with us the invaluable information, pictures, etc. you may have stored in your attic or elsewhere, or let us know if you would like to volunteer to help us collect information by dropping us a line: Green Acre Bahd’{ School, 188 Main St., , ME 93903, or phone 207-4391200. We'll be happy to copy and return any original documents, photographs, cassettes and the like on request.
WANTED
THE NATIONAL Baha’i Archives is seeking, at the request of the U: versal House of Justice, original | ters written on behalf of the Guardian to the following individuals: Betty Bennett, Fred Bennett, Winifred E. Bennell, Ivan Benson, Jean Berest, Sando Berger, Herbert Berman, Annie Berridge, Norman Bethel, Frank Bethune, Pinkie Bevan, and Mildred Bickett. Anyone knowing family members or relatives who might have these letters is asked to contact the National Baha’i Archives, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.
WANTED: prayers, materials and/or suggestions to help us in our desire to establish a program promoting chastity. Please send to: Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Westerville, P.O. Box 611, Westerville, OH 43081, or phone 614-890-9787.
AUSTRALASIA: the Continental Pioneer Committee for Australasia is
seeking traveling teachers and pioneers to Australasia. For more information, contact the Office of Pioneering, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-8699039.
HENRY Halifax, where are you? I need a copy of the play “The Education of Henry Halifax.”” Pioneers in Chile hope to present the play at next year’s International Youth Confer‘ence there. If you have a copy you can part with, or if I could copy your copy, please send it to Marty Allen, P.O. Box 11, Purcellville, VA 22132, or phone 703-338-6275.
THE BAHA’IS of Bellingham and Whatcom County, Washington, are getting ready to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Faith in that area and need your help. If you have ever lived in the area or pioneered there or know of pioneers and/or traveling teachers to or from the area, please write to the Spiritual Assembly of Bellingham, P.O. Box 103, Bellingham, WA 98825, or phone Lina Zeine, 206-734-6505. We are grateful to the friends who have responded but need many more!
THE NATIONAL Baha’i Archives is seeking district convention voting lists for the years 1953-67 for the states of Washington, New Mexico, Colorado, Georgia, Florida, Indiana, Kentucky and Maine. Anyone having lists they could donate is asked to send them to the National Baha’i Archives, Bahá'{ National Center, Wilmette, IL
he
MISCELLANEOUS
LISA Alter, born June 1962, wishes to contact her mother, last name also Alter, who lived in New York at the ‘ime of Lisa’s birth. Any information greatly needed and appreciated. Write to P.O. Box 340, New York, NY 10009.
CHILDREN: this ad is for you. Brilliant Star magazine is always looking for drawings, poems and stories written by children. Send them to Brilliant Star, Chattanooga, TN 37421
Baha’i from India featured speaker at Missouri gathering
Mehreban Jamshedi, a former member of the National Spiritual Assemblies of India and Pakistan, gave the keynote address at a public meeting last November on “The Baha’i Faith in India’’ at the University of Missouri-Columbia.
Mr. Jamshedi spoke about the growth of the Faith in India culminating in the completion of the Baha’i House of Worship near New Delhi.
Betty Wedman, chairman of the Spiritual Assembly of Columbia, which hosted the event, shared her own experiences investigating the Faith in India.
Another highlight was a showing of the 26-minute documentary, “‘Heart of the Lotus,”’ about the Temple in India.
Bahereh Reyhani, who attended its dedication in 1986 and toured India, contributed slides of the country which were shown while taped Indian classical music was broadcast over the audio system.
Invitations designed by Farah Nieuwenhuizen were mailed to more than 100 Indian faculty, staff and students at the university.
The Bahá’ís of Columbia plan to repeat the proclamation event this coming fall.
Don’t forget to celebrate INTERNATIONAL DAY OF
PEACE, September 20!
�[Page 19]
The American Baha’i / July 1988 / 19
This photograph was possibly taken in the 1910s in Chicago or Michigan. If you know or can
identify any of the children in the picture, please send the name(s) to the National Bahá’í Archives, Ba
Immense, diverse audience expected
at second Baha’i World Congress
The second Baha’i World Congress, to be held in November 1992 in New York City, will attract an immense gathering of Baha’is and is expected to demonstrate the great and unusual diversity of the Baha’ world community.
It is envisaged that the Congress will draw more than 20,000 participants whose presence in New York, the City of the Covenant, will provide opportunities for proclamation and celebration on a scale not previously realized.
The Planning and Executive Office, which has been established by the Universal House of Justice under the auspices of the U.S. National Spiritual Assembly, is responsible for logistics and physical operation of the Congress, which will be held at the Jacob Javits Convention Center. At present, operations of the office are coordinated from locations at the Baha’i World Center and the Baha’i National Center in Wilmette, Illinois.
The Planning and Executive Office is coordinating the hotel and travel arrangements and is the only administrative agency authorized by the Universal House of Justice to do so. The goal is to provide for the basic needs of participants in the most economical and efficient manner. To fully realize economical rate advantages, the cooperation of everyone is required.
Information about World Congress plans will be issued periodically. Registration is to begin in early 1991 and end in April 1992 to allow for Congress credentials and final information to be processed.
hd’t National Center, IL 60091.
Wilmette,
New booklet on administration seeks to calm misgivings about differences
Is Baha’i administration, in all its details, uniform throughout the Baha’i world? That is not an unreasonable assumption to make.
As Baha’is, we know that we are a close-knit community with unity of thought, unity of purpose, and unity of action. When we visit Baha’i communities in other countries, or when Baha’is from overseas visit us, we are struck by how we all recognize that Bahd’/ feeling, that commitment to the Baha’i way, wherever we go.
We know that they believe the same things we do, and though our ways and manners are different, we obey the same principles and, internationally, the same Baha’i institutions.
How is it, then, that sometimes there seems to be a failure of communication between Baha’is of different backgrounds about certain administrative practices?
When a Persian Baha’i insists that Naw-Rúz is to be celebrated when the vernal equinox occurs— and that may sometimes happen on March 20—while an American Baha’i commemorates it on March 21, regardless of the motion of the spheres, who is right?
Simply put, they both are. In this particular case, as revealed in the Writings, Naw-Rúz begins with the vernal equinox (Appendix to the Kitáb-i-Aqdas).
The Guardian, however, gave instructions, reiterated by the Universal House of Justice, that
Local Bahá’í Fund
(ask your local Baha’i community for the correct address) National Baha’i Fund Wilmette, IL 60091 Continental Baha’i Fund
c/o Baha’i National Center Wilmette, IL 60091
Bahá’í International Fund P.O. Box 155
Haifa, Israel 31-000
Persian Relief Fund
c/o Baha’i National Center Wilmette, IL 60091
Baha’i Huqdqu’lláh Trust
Rocky River, OH 44116
until such time as Baha’i practices became standard throughout the world, in the West Naw-Rúz should be celebrated on March 21.
This variance in practice is not that difficult to explain. The broad principles of Bahda’i administration are the same everywhere. Every country has a National Spiritual Assembly, local Spiritual Assemblies, national and local committees, and, of course, the appointed institutions, all of which operate under the same guidelines.
The specifics, on the other hand, can differ from place to place.
The apportionment of delegates, for example, is left to the discretion of each National Spiritual Assembly, and certain national committees may function with varying degrees of authority.
Despite all efforts to state positions clearly, misunderstandings may still be common. Some of the Persian Baha’is are disturbed by what they see as divergences in the U.S. Baha’i community from practices they were used to in Iran, but all it really takes to dispel some of this confusion are brief, simple answers based on guidance from the institutions of the Faith.
An effort in this direction is the publication by the National Persian/American Affairs Committee of a Persian booklet entitled An Introduction to Bahá’í Administration.
While reinforcing the general principles of Baha’i administration for Persian believers, it points out specific areas of uniqueness of Baha’i administration in the U.S. Each chapter is simple, concise and to the point.
Far from being exhaustive, the booklet is exactly what its title denotes: an introduction.
It should, however, help its readers gain a better understanding of Bahá’í community life in America and encourage them to become active participants in all its wonderful and varied aspects.
The booklet is available for $1 per copy from the Baha’i Distribution Service, 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 1-800-999-9019).
Quickly find a passage from the writings
of Baha’u’llah
in any of 9 books and 24 compilations!
A Concordance to the Writings of Baha'u'llah, compiled by Lee Nelson, is one of the most comprehensive tools available for finding and studying passages from the Creative Word. It lists alphabetically all of the significant words in the writings of Baha'u'llah and includes a portion of the passage in which the word appears. This concordance has over 160,000 references to key words and provides access to nearly all of the published English writings of Baha'u'llah.
HC $49.95
A Concordance to the Writings of Baha’u’llah, a basic tool that belongs in every Baha’i library, can help you to: Find a favorite passage
e Research specific subjects
e Prepare deepenings and compilations
Prepare readings for firesides, Feasts, and Holy Days
¢ Explore and study the variety of meanings of words and groups of similar words
Enhance understandings, expand scope, and narrow personal interpretations and misquoting of Bahá’u’lláh's writings
¢ Foster unity by what Baha'u'llah actually wrote rather than on what Baha'is think He wrote
A Concordance is indexed to these books:
Epistle to the Son of the Wolf The Proclamation of Baha'u'llah
Gleanings from the Writings of Baha'u'llah The Seven Valleys and The Four Valleys
The Hidden Words of Baha'u'llah Tablets of Baha'u'llah
Kitab-i-lqan A Synopsis and Codification of Kitab-i-Aqdas Prayers and Meditations Plus 24 compilations
Bahá’í Distribution Service
415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091 Tel. 1-800-999-9019
�[Page 20]
20 / The American Baha’i / July 1988
La sexta Convencion Internacional Baha’i
“Un resquicio al cuadro sobrio que ha vertido una sombra sobre la mayoria de este siglo actualmente abrillanta el horizonte. Se discierne en las nuevas tendencias que impulsan los procesos sociales que estan en vigor a través del mundo, en las evidencias de una tendencia acelerada hacia la paz. En la Fe de Dios, es la fuerza creciente del Orden de Baha’u’ll4h mientras su estandarte se iza a alturas mds imponentes. Es una fuerza que atrae.”’
Estas palabras emocionantes del mensaje de Ridvan de la Casa Universal de Justicia fueron leidas por la Mano de la Causa de Dios Amatu’l-Bahá Rúḥíyyih Khaénum ante los delegados reunidos en la primera sesién de consulta de la sexta Convencién Internacional Baha’i que se realizé en Haifa del
ESPANOL
29 de abril al 2 de mayo de 1988.
Resumieron la esencia del mensaje inspirado e inspirador: ha emergido ‘‘una nueva paradigma de oportunidad,’’ y ‘‘Se han desplegado nuevos prospectos para ensefiar la Causa en todos los niveles de la sociedad.’”
Sigue diciendo el mensaje:
“El reto actual requiere ensefianza en una escala y de una calidad, de una variedad, y de una intensidad que sobrepase todos los esfuerzos actuales.””
Este tema surgia repetidamente en las consultas de los delegados.
Amatu’!-Baha abrié la Convencién en forma oficial la mafiana del viernes, 29 de abril. Se leyeron oraciones en cuatro idiomas.
Hubo 663 delegados presentes en el Auditorio de Haifa para la eleccién de los nueve miembros de la Casa Universal de Justicia que serviran por los proximos cinco afios. Representaron a 132 de las 148 Asambleas Espirituales Nacionales en todo el mundo.
Ademis, se recibieron votos por
Obtenga su copia del Plan de Seis Afios
Ahora esta disponible la traduccién en espafiol del Plan de Seis Ajios de la comunidad norteamericana. Si desea una copia, por favor de comunicarse con la oficina del Comité Nacional de Ensefianza al: National Teaching Committee, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, o llame al 312-869-9039, ext. 220.
Se encuentra en el centro de la foto, Dofia Carmen Rodriguez Cruz, delegada este afio del Valle
de Salinas en California a la Convencién Nacional Bahá’í.
Hispanos representados en Convencion con Dofia Carmen
Una especial bendicién para los delegados de la Convencién Nacional este afio fue tener la presencia de una delegada del Valle de Salinas de California.
Dojfia Carmen Rodriguez Cruz, asi como otros millones de personas americanas, no habla inglés. Su idioma nativo es el espajfiol, y su presencia como delegada fue una evidencia de una creciente participacién en los asuntos de la ‘Causa por un grupo bastante significativo de minorias en los Estados Unidos—los hispanos quienes no hablan inglés.
Timida por naturaleza, fue un gesto especialmente valiente de su parte que se levantara para dirigirse a la Convencién.
Luego de expresar su alegria por poder haber tenido la oportunidad de asistir a la Convencién, ella dijo, “‘Baha’u’ll4h vino y se robé mi corazén inmediamente. Pero eso esta bien, porque El me dio un nuevo corazén, uno me baha’i en 1980 a través de los esfuerzos de un proyecto de enseflanza. Sus maestros tomaron cuidado especial para ayudarla en su profundizacién en la Fe.
Asi como muchos otros baha’is residentes en el Valle de Salinas, la Sra. Rodriguez Cruz no escribe ni lee. Sin embargo, ella siempre escuchaba atentamente cuando le ensefiaban canciones y oraciones para memorizarse, llegando a ser una creyente firme en Bahd’w'llah.
El pasado aiio, el séptimo de sus diez hijos se hizo baha’i.
La Sra. Rodriguez Cruz estuvo profundamente conmovida al estar en la Casa de Adoracién y por los nuevos pocos amigos que ella conocié en la Convencién Nacional.
Desde su visita a Wilmette, ella dice que ha estado muy activa e inspirada, sintiendo el deseo de viajar para ensefiar la Causa de Baha’u’llah.
Ella ha comenzado a ensejiar por si sola, teniendo como meta personal el de visitar a cada baha’i en el Valle de Salinas para compartir con ellos su reporte de la Convencién.
correo de delegados de los dieciseis paises que no pudieron asistir.
La coleccién espectacular de personas en representacién de toda la raza humana, muchas de las cuales estuvieron ataviadas con el vestido tipico de su nacién, prestaron colorido a la atmésfera de solemnidad cuando cada uno pas6 adelante para dar su voto.
Un elemento emocionante de la entrega de los votos fue la presencia de dos delegados de Cuba, pais que por primera vez se vid representado en forma personal en una Convencién Internacional Baha’i. Fueron aplaudidos calurosamente por los demas delegados cuando cruzaron la plataforma para dar su voto.
Los resultados de la votacién fueron anunciados a los delegados reunidos por el Escrutador en Jefe, el Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh, a mediodia del sabado 30 de abril.
Los miembros son: el Sr. ‘Ali Nakhjavani, el Sr. Glenford Mitchell, el Sr. Hushmand Fatheazam, el Sr. lan Semple, el Dr. Peter Khan, el Dr. David Ruhe, el Sr. Hugh Chance, el Sr. Hooper Dunbar, el Sr. Adib Taherzadeh.
De las 1,296 balotas entregadas, solamente una no era valida. Los miembros fueron elegidos por un total de 7,880 de los 11,655 votos individuales. Amatu’l-Bahá sefialé, como un reflejo de la madurez del mundo baha’i, el alto porcentaje de los votos recibidos de delegados que no pudieron asistir.
Se Ilamé a los nueve miembros a la plataforma mientras aplaudian los delegados.
Ola tras ola de aplauso continuo inundaba el auditorio cuando se llamé a la plataforma a los dos miembros de la Casa Universal de Justicia que se retiraban, el Sr. David Hofman y el Sr. H. Borrah Kavelin, para recibir el saludo de la audiencia de delegados y personal del Centro Mundial por su servicio largo y devoto.
Se recordd a tres anteriores miembros de la Casa de Justicia, el Sr. Charles Wolcott, quien fallecié hace poco; el Sr. Amoz Gibson y el Dr. Lutfu’ll4h Ḥakím, cuya hija y nieta respectivamente
sestuvieron presentes como dele gadas a la Convencién. Una tristeza especial combinada
“con sentimientos de orgullo lend
el salén cuando se mencioné la ausencia de delegados para representar a Iran.
“De todo corazén extrafiaremos la comunidad baha’i mds antigua ... los amigos en Persia,”’ dijo Amatu’l-Bahá en sus palabras de apertura en la primera sesion de la Conferencia.
Hizo un tributo a los sacrificios y el sufrimiento continuo de “nuestros hermanos y hermanas en Iran.”” Anuncié que se ofreceria una oracién de clausura en su memoria y pidié que un gran jarrén con 120 rosas rojas, regalo de los baha’is en Iran se trajera al centro del escenario.
Cinco Manos de la Causa de Dios estuvieron presentes para la sesiOn de apertura, y aportaron la dignidad epecial y la fuerza esPiritual de su alto puesto: fueron Amatu’l-Bahá Rúḥíyyih Khanum, JAli Akbar Furttan, ‘Ali Muhammad Varqé, William Sears y Collis Featherstone.
Cada uno de estos queridos “‘remanentes del Guardian” particip6 de manera tinica y significante durante los cinco dias de la ‘Convencién.
EI Dr. Vargé habl6 sobre el tema del Huqutiqu’llah y sefialo que esta instituci6n debe verse como una obligacién espiritual basada en el amor del creyente; es un aspecto tangible del Convenio de Dios; y fortalece la relacién entre Dios y el hombre.
Las otras Manos de la Causa de Dios contribuyeron su guia sobre temas tratados en el inspirador Mensaje de Ridvan. El Sr. Sears trajo saludos especiales de las Manos de la Causa que no pudieron estar presentes, el Dr. Ugo Giachery, el Sr. Jalal Khazeh y el Sr. John Robarts.
Del 30 de abril hasta el 2 de mayo todas las sesiones generales fueron coordinadas por Consejeras: Dra. Magdalene Carney, del Centro Internacional de Ensefianza; Sra. Zena Sorabjee, de Asia; Dra. Wilma Brady, de las Américas; Sra. Joy Stevenson, de Australasia; Sra. Lucretia Mancho Warren, de Africa; y Sra. Polin Rafat, de Europa.
Delagados de todos los continentes por igual hicieron sus contribuciones en las cinco sesiones de consulta sobre temas (avisados de antemano por correo) que incluyeron:
1. El desarrollo de la comunidad baha’i como modelo; El fortalecimiento de la unidad; El Convenio en todos sus aspectos.
2. Qué mas necesita hacerse para promover la paz; El desarroIlo de las agencias de asuntos externos; Lo que puede hacer la comunidad baha’i para promover el desarrollo social y econémico; El concepto del Ajio de Servicio.
3. El relacionar las Ensefianzas de la Fe a las necesidades y preocupaciones del mundo en general; El desarrollo de la pericia baha’i y los estudios baha’is.
4. El ganar crecientes nimeros de nuevos seguidores de la Fe y la consolidacién de lo ganado.
5. El desarrollo de los fondos de la Fe; el Fondo del Proyecto del Arco; Huqtqu’ll4h.
Bajo el emblema dorado del Mas Grande Nombre y ocupando toda la parte central del escenario, una gran fotografia magnifica a colores, tomada desde el aire, que mostraba el Santuario del Bab con un agregado bien ejecutado de los planes arquitecténicos de las futuras terrazas con una miriada de cipreses, senderos, fuentes y arbustos, y el Arco con los cinco edificios ya construidos, sirviéd para recordarles continuamente a los delegados acerca de las necesidades urgentes del Proyecto del
Arco.
El arquitecto y el administrador del proyecto, los sefiores Husayn Amanat y Farfburz Sahbé, en sus presentaciones de diapositivas, dirigieron la atencién de los presentes aun mas hacia los detalles, la grandeza y las necesidades financieras de este proyecto.
Otros temas centrales de la consulta fueron las siguientes:
© Tanto mujeres como hombres se refirieron al principio de la igualdad y al papel de la mujer en el proceso de la paz.
© Se mencioné a los jévenes y nifios como un recurso poco aprovechado con respecto a la ensefianza de la Fe, y se dieron ideas sobre su educacién.
- Se hizo referencia a nuestro
respeto por las contribuciones culturales de los pueblos indigenas que enriquecen a la comunidad.
- Se compartié informacién sobre las maneras comprobadas de
ganar cada vez mAs creyentes para la Fe y cémo mantener su entusiasmo.
Durante el periodo de la Convencidn los delegados, visitas y el personal del Centro Mundial celebraron dos Dias Sagrados.
Se conmemoré el Noveno Dia de Ridvan en el patio y los jardines de la Casa de Peregrinos en Haifa adyacente al Santuario del Bab, y la Mano de la Causa William Sears presidié. Hubo lecturas en cinco idiomas—arabe, inglés, espafiol, francés y persa—seguido de la recitacién de la Tabla de Visitacién. Después los amigos circundaron el Santuario del Bab en silencio y con reverencia. _
Luego de la clausura de la ultima sesién de la Convencién en el Duodécimo Dia de Ridvan, todos los distinguidos visitantes y las familias del Centro Mundial se reunieron en el Ḥaram-i-Aqdas en Bahjí donde los jardines estuvieron en el apogeo de su esplendor primaveral. La celebracién se abrié con aptas palabras por la Mano de la Causa Collis Featherstone sobre el significado de la ocasion.
Hubo lecturas en cinco idiomas y luego, en torno al Santuario de Baha’u’ll4h, circundaron mas de mil de Sus seguidores con solemnidad pero también alegria.
En los cuatro dias anteriores a la Convencién los delegados disfrutaron de una serie de visitas programadas a los Lugares Sagrados de la Fe en Haifa y ‘Akká.
Se realizaron vientenas de sesiones de consulta entre grupos de
Vea HAIFA pagina 32
Queridos amigos bahd’is,
bleas Espirituales Nacionales:
Nuevo nombramiento Consejeros al Centro Mundial de la Fe
El 18 de mayo de 1988 la Casa Universal de Justicia envié el siguiente mensaje por correo electrénico y télex a ciertas Asam REGOCIJADOS ANUNCIAR NOMBRAMIENTO CONSEJEROS MIEMBROS CENTRO INTERNACIONAL DE ENSENANZA PARA TERMINO DE CINCO ANOS COMENZANDO 23 DE MAYO DE 1988: EL DR. FARZAM ARBAB, LA. DRA. MAGDALENE CARNEY, EL SR. HARTMUT GROSSMANN, EL SR. MAS’UD KHAMSI, LA SRA. LAURETTA KING, EL SR. DONALD ROGERS, LA SRA. ISOBEL SABRI, LA SRA. JOY STEVENSON, EL SR. PETER VUYIYA. SE VE SUPREMA IMPORTANCIA ACELERACION TRABAJO DE ENSENANZA ESTA EDAD FORMATIVA, NUMERO DE CONSEJEROS AHORA AUMENTADO A NUEVE. EXPRESAMOS PROFUNDO AGRADECIMIENTO AL SR. ‘AZIZ YAZDi Y A LA SRTA. ANNELIESE BOPP POR SUS ASIDUOS DEVOTOS ABNEGADOS SERVICIOS CENTRO ENSENANZA DURANTE TANTOS ANOS.
�[Page 21]
The American Baha’i / July 1988 / 21
OT SS sogel 9 She ANS 9 43 cle Sav V0 dye Mie GOLAT 'ty99 Y tus y Cael Jed
9 chy! Gabyb Be ade SILI 4» Seley Ny Syy 80 pho REL shal BS Soo Shel ret 92 pe OS) UW tls Syke, th Blatt 6K 9 Slel od Fe She el ed Be PE JL » of o> Bet 4 owl Ml 3h Koo olny tsb Of Gissliols sy, Sule Mertens ONL eiges Sigtallgs: acme pel Jadlcey eegsh sud
Adthae glyaj) ate 52 S slyly Gul del wil yale phe gel & Je OK Y GS Se WN rend ES ger Gly thls Gyly rahe gor edlae Ope> clyll 5
Ole yo ghy25! “ely dye tle Jal debe."
wiley cletel y cyte DUS! 9 giel> 2bS! 47 29 979 Sy exer yp G Atk ghar 4 cl Ved 25 he) Shay cel Al lye Qeer Me Cul WiCyoe yy 5) Glegle i> toy
¥ . wv BSNS . A ” ig HM . OU3 4 gleygz Gal, yy! Ab 15! “ertle get re yl” Olygte Sos ws
pe
PUBLICATIONS
LAT ype cel nS OF aE ed LL & lal uly OG oz » oBauk, gidl OMY) “ule 9 AB cleS5ey 9 ble y lil wha Vee Ceul ole
Sen Ky sl tag ote Unite JWG be Gd obs 5) te 5fasl RWmaser ars) Col ta gid’ oolel Gtetea a4 yD MS gAty ap (gel WHY) dey Symp Gla prngy Cod gy yt N Gtty Gay Oy Oyhy y JW2 VO yor sity Cay & (gizl ¥YXYA) wCuel yYo VE Gdty ay
ay by 99 AN gle Glee pl col! SMeplrshal cle! spl Gh ka cbs “oP! Se oe" AS le eS lp Aes alee exFoi OUMSNIUSSURAEH OF! en <0 He yb" a wl er lay J 4 Pay liz sys y WI t/V0 Ged wy "Al sheet God Ge DY Cod
UBT Spe WS “ylal his" patho “yg Ht NN oS ole & stan! dL QoL MV Gad ote, as ab GIL» sheet God 3h ofp Gy Ofytesst Seyler ay35 “Lye Seb els
SiS) glee Of Lceatote CNter> So! Baha'i Distribution Service
415 Linden Ave. Wilmette, IL. 60091
BAe ye walle Gre dey ste lyri daly hgh 9 05 Camgd Olaf dfure of ald dA a HY elyeal NS oy 4 G beg ty S43 bly OAS y wprel oat Uegligs Gyar pS 52 S pyeglle Cy AQ Jpg ged peS Syye glye3) SST Sh tay Ul Ay G arghs Cyley fy hls oy 4 05 4b BS Ke 225 Shgee deal ye grythy 5455 whssl “Syhys kyo “ele ple Lyle oul ve WL ob ey QL, vot PIS gab gy hy ge “hE Aieg y “ae Bye Sy ayy atl ch
+ Casal
daly Syl Diced cry Ay G955 “tee.”
doy by & ty ete I GG LS
ASlue Go OUT LS QUES 3h fd dpa gab " 35,145
SS ge tT kate gel ot Se eel SRI yeh 9 TST 4 Nol High pie dle Oto pyad
FS Cal aby rey LUZ) tly a2"
gy Ayl, Ob Qe Wh gy otter oy bE DLS) Gedy HE gy Ugh ly Kone Sid! "eg fol> carl
Sethe GIF SN edb SOT 3 ey Ul gy Hale Cle, glya5l ayy drys Jol sly sASrges eS Sed Ny tage sek gy oy Guy watts Kote sie gy dey jy 80 iho? Leb idle Oe ge yt 4 by
ol
le go Tamed y GES 4 gles! vis Noa"
’ Fae FOOL Wey Oty a Ly aioe 9 GES wes yo OT lyasl S og LS! Bon Fh 3 Fe 9 op oF SN oe Cane) Ke dup weg 9 2g She. cgs pile aed
eWay yng pel leat y Cul pl >
pete Olay Call 1) 092 gel Gyagiw cle
rh3ferge 3 OLY
gree Aeyate Shey gly25l “Whee yet 92"
“eo cel hte rnd pte cleat WLS y ceed Ty eayfdsy Sus cul gpl lS bus Bae Ky sped 9 ylyS I ny gett 2 S Sutyl AUIS Sickines See US pete ¢ (5 seca GES Tes Me cake fol> Qs Oly glow ye Joie 4393 9 E93 AH g gyal dye 2OatI 9 A mee cal Ee bo el te 0,8 a SMe PNG 9 eB Ser te Ae ald ol al Sle She Sp Seg 2 SN Ree oye! el
cel yb Oley Gyles SF Cal 455 gy 7
(Ge ghsys'6 155 “ete)
‘ate t Yfd> 59 le ah Rebs Cyr abe Fetes 0G HV Sere YS gy ct Soy 4e thee dal Gay3 y ygSde Gols 51 de pe yo Te te ly) play Gato “elle 295d oeasl eS
pete NGG Ads “Ub Gal 3 CAS Hhyel ty a tay JL Qh G gyle JL OG als re) dymul wb onl 225% OGT 3h colenr Gash & 4,5 gry) gpl Sly Ole ge ly dhe oS 15.5 DIG y yte, wh 3,5 035 yp gals Ub,
Ge 05,99 fe, 50
ol Si5 ON BAHA'I ENGAGEMENT
Cun other Cpl elyrl thy Coke »» Ny uted pet S tattre Oley pa 05 9 oy eK Gud ty Gud ty py Kode Ug ttle Ly 6855 chet » Wty tte tape OUI, yr ay Y ly GES. 59. 05). Gaslace gee ay! ole AB NIT bey 293 3! nd HE Ny 395 Galen pe SF Wyre S155 2B tegd o9zy CS ry SN Sy amle pa 9 100,5 hye stlegsyT 9 tel tee agh 9 05 5S LB Ay elyaph oly! -as,fo of Loo Jue Seah yo" Ky rsh gchar Cl y pe RE st Le clad Gg "5 sly Se! SW, 9 SIL oles ts (plas Galas wai els: ig) scot lor 2 ge NH 5 35h reeds Eyl abl, pez Sater Sto shal 51"
- Glow CB len GME oy Cal CBye Of)
sA3ferSy9
Oper ‘ny
wiles! Giay | pls ky Jal S Gul tls Se> usE by Go , sez Wy gteths (S53 Gb 5 bs og
tslazal>s oly She fe a dle She nl gel 2" ett ape 9 Gigtley, bly rl “tan
Mig shar City atl, GUE y b5} Jasb OIG} atl Sy y che GE at cht then ghyy cleesn 9 Cigim aot cloart! BR 4 Stay pet Gly Wy Ey 92 dye See 9 SRE ype gy Ted py net I See A Ke sly yt “he eS oy pe
aaa Plpt> Sees) Cosel Sais sligge ns ata G anys Gey yye Ny 995 Jb) uth
© na ndtps ble Ot gleh 5. jbo eas
�[Page 22]
22 / The American Baha’i / July 1988
Robert gute Srly Cle «grb Lily,
William Jyuks ply Gir sae Henderson Chester Kahn olS > Glke . Maxwell
ow! they gle
Gelb James NeTSONn dguls jeer Ge Gyre
Willaim Davis n25.2
sunety NH gh Jim ciel L sys Yb» PPS seed arly 29> OLE 3 Sly pS eh el 32 be ee ee SM ge fy oGazyls 4 JS0sl, gre i oy, th fS85 oT gtley ale ayy 52 pliel Juice chlys 5!
ASL twaily gh Jaw 5259 51 gto slS oSarls ST oF Aa 55152 ofl Soke Hf 4 159,5 Wd yo OG urls gatas whys el NS serge Chye glasl SLLy 3! gisys y Wilma Brady sun Wiha oe Slam kS ob gy Robert Harris wy Sl
sL52g05 ele. Fred Schechter
Se hh SP aw, Le de il gz BGaLs1,5 45,5 Wer ciiSpoes Ctenen alae sAyyS Spel Louis Gregory 5555 nats) Mb ytleS @ bye “by dy Lo 9 tdkyye tis! Ly! GIL! yo S og obly> PS She Sem gary? hy? GAGS getgee her te dalyd £25 Dyyoges 52 VNAY JL Bde aalgz OL yr oaks 3) ps Vt jye> Se Glee’ slits pl cle 3) S oy sl Ge sap a Qh subst Lo f> yb stsl SN gd 92 Cyber omel fo .tsryy oad pl gel WG aloes, slo wine OIG) clay gst Saved lr Mags OT BsN5S S oyy ote! sty ple aoe & a3 jp BlS
‘ure gh Wy Jim gb pll Bs» o9r9 te 9 Reh ol Qaed ee I) olor ced Oel SoS 09S gd ym dete PLS! sly 937 RUN GSS? FESS SSE el Toe ly few ds th os! teal pg) OKs: ble .tya,S
Sally Gyle glasf 3) 95 42 3) Sys — 9 soba dey Ee 4 sbsS loop le pbs!
gm gh Metyl glen Gedtys 92 G1 Siyt9 Setzen lee Sriwsd 9 CSU gene Olle «LS 045 HUet giles BT oly S Sle yo OSL Se sas yySde Gysldle uly Sake y Coal 5! 1SBly tal y> 9 Bly serge Stee gles! 31 Syes Sly Sony Sle yo O54 Spe ObT gayle ae abe sal Ee! Sete dl yy, 2,5 LAT NGS g deeb pe SN pry Geer WL Bw gals y2 ysl es VV ols) — (ay ‘ote > alot)
4 Ugo Giachery oi Str Sy. 52 ole , peel ke oBaryls AGL yyte Ghyll 32 tory, Cl
098 esd Iym Ketel glee elie 99 etna the Sreerd lr gy Cll gear Che «be S le Lal 4 pS sll AIS & acl, stooges tel Sbly WoT sky ye
SHEL 2 SAL ys) Sy? st2S glizl gel Opa> ple ie ob jl. eed) et slbls Clg! 9 Aer SG ed 9 cyt ds yeilyel sdb OS Ayle “ULL ep
perils? Sy S gh “Le oe ST per Ue po! OGG CSE UE cts olga, Wy ygSde “be EL aye gree do etl SUT ogy Cle DAI wb! spt y obly gdh Sy Ob By Sle WUT .4p,5 dye pd N23) Oggi] Oldaius WS GI you ebdages igh Dey Sao ake ple Jy>
Sper Syy5 ddogy
9 Aol
Useless AW ls Sse: acess gyee lle gh3g3IF 52 shaj8 geyylle Ct
S shegey Cllr 32 ppm eye — .sritfo JES Moar Rel yl> lal Y Cypher AQT JalS y oShde ap y Attar CSpn vtyy ott
pies (se
Lae go ALI! Ce pis IS 5, 155
79TH NATIONAL CONVENTION VA GIG gh gle ghsys6 gays y othee site CAG! WEL yo le UL | Tr Gil oe i OpfE4" 3h dT Yb yoy 4S sie oGubs 65 US ds 4 oly of “tgif a
- wheat G98 4 ge gis
y AS CHT el ye tye ply thee JP Syke cel ope ny Saks Syste
Al Sah eS Sty" pte Yl 9 EF5 CS gy ge & Ml GS pple
tee tle weer HS SS “edage
a gis yo oils 31 5 toe Ly Sigh Ny TBS: 5h. eas Ve wate os,b SN 3! ey -Abegy GBI Sly! Cay Geb 3! wll AT oleh 9 ship oBinls gl, es) eee ayo onel Gl Gales) Joow plas OF le Chee y at JSS Gh ly) Siw Ute wiley, Jow slash wll ap 5 oho! 35 $2LSled Toe 4 ON iablEbetee. 5 te
Dorothy dys yyy? pW pu ger Gp pl We sje eat) Nelson Jack ae ds Clr. Alberta Deas Syhne hte 035 pbWS Soph Gir . McCants
pea re pen cy reeves ry ETS ty
6TH INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION AT THE HOLY LAND
VA GG MN llsee Ady cree LOBly sas! tlage yo gle dle ye Y il dere! IWS SN yyle “be aby a aemgy ell Hel ee lyn ply SI ed Cube GH L I, TAsage 5 cll S Sheps NN ede ey SI 595 SN leo" Ip sote dle GB 5,5 yd yp Ip pL os WS Ghote CYS yoo) ONS) ttre thy, 9 eS dhe pale 2 tlie! SLL 2 dow dye ebalde phe sly S 395559) Jels SUT ae NS gal Dal Joo 52 cag hee pts & wpe Dy, Opa> ay pls Ldle Ul Sry season Wool nw Tt fle S ops
es cohee ea iesles
Hyyldo yor, Ngtay Ggd SLL, alee We ghd SS NF MN gey ghd ysl5
ody SUB See Oy 6 ag Solty Sg SESS BL yo Gh Jaw WY 3) ayls av WALLED sytem pel Jidlegy gles! GU! Cyr tae US Bel hy la! oer CSP OWa oss e anes lee la shagy 2S CSE ght 42 US vB ks Ayal gh gleyy Jinn SBILLS ype Cle Se get 29 9 W pre Geet Spar y vgts! Ccly wy Nowse Of ap Gybs GE lel yyfoly SS Eye JF Sle ye Gb 42 dy, th Jlyl
29g MRS Ctow “hyo Neh hdl Gale te Nake etd she ee 9 An os Sie sty Sy Slee dt)! Dicey glasl ole oT ole Sf Gey TheyS Otel GS 5 gate pel
dae vyelf kz aSlyss gle ole 5 tty Glke . Glenford Mitchell wk. .« Ian Semple See OL) Ge spel Peter Khan oS j=,, Hugh Chance »=* yea Giz . David Ruhe wks y Hooper Dunbar jksl> we ole y
Tx tage? le.
03\5 pale yal HySitel pl ght Olam 3! 3S gy P52 Ge Syd pS) le Ghz SE toy) WiTTiam Syme pleey Ee yy Lacde
COTLIS Syrups gelIS te «= 'g 0 Sears oye lignes gh 2 Featherstone
gy Chale igh yo 99d gs Gy ey anit Gls Abegetee pal gle pos slab lly Magi Se Seal ge arly “By ALRBlo SYSL Sbley oT ley gle Di yl wal Of a> of gS a Clas Lb John Robarts pS by) dle wie ase Jae
Sree lke
�[Page 23]
stig IST JE lye obey 4» Hys53 5
Wg LiBl> Sane gilatagd 9 wll 3"
gees Tels LS y Ol pee KI yey WS ASryy 09,5 jG, dhe story, dhl oldy! whey 9 LAT y Job Le Bp YE tk tharays tatacenl
dS PT OW ated genre ir 29 292 2S Srpe ALS) 32 Sy 29> hear! Of) 9!) shee (Aipee SH Ske oN) Cakds oly 298 Nez aly 9 2928S Cage her ay ate ey SAS lee g ola GRE Ctl ay Soke oat 1295 N4b Ny ad ole ttl 5 oe
sAshetslertly gl 3h gr lez 9 pane Holy Oils hy) wy Wiel we
Sosa 39 Sle lee err oe
SECOND BAHA'I WORLD CONGRESS IN THE CITY OF COVENANT
dee pels 22 the tlhe Gee oH? yar Oy 3! S Aygeged eh 9? Mia tS Gh "Slt ole Saleme WS gad tal wee Gel dk aly fale p59 GAS ogy salyd rly dal sl scoop sally> OLS) ctlee, alee rs Nga Were SN te Soy lk vyer Als OS SL ew 3? real 3h YWyege 92 retS MS onl
VAAN
9 eg Cty
te tle wh eet OE ly cll, eras yee ee SN ath gy sirup cb"
Oe ley Jew lM cos hel Julie. Waipiia) ssl lgsee=s Gus! Ane ‘sila, olate oly! sae daly Sher gem sla pb OS 4 hl ye ak oer Cleberh GS > yy eam otias} Jacob Javits Convention Center ars 958 ends ysl, 9L- Mew scaly tales Be ley, Jw Hh othe the Be vhs ghee yl) aoe GIL! yee Ge ye eel 4 sie yy <b" Ph Cay eg Le SS A yge YES lel yee ge dalyd She Gaye yo WSS OS,5 ly 295e A Oke Wyk Ge ee ey 9g Aalyd ptte gsher gem oyl CEpte yr le eee cee “ule Shey Cloth steny days olin ge AST ay a oS the YOAV le Jelgh 3h ssSl pee ly pl Od aeSIe NAGY Je Jer! yay ah ualyd GUT
1a) tal
cow le bs par Sot 555 G92 4
veg Onl oy gy thle gol 9 C2 re BT Web 5M 1h oy job cole LS Joe 2ogp elt I 5 a3 yy 95343 ou G.0,5
ObeslL55 SS ik gee Gh ol oo Su BEY dad Glee pee 0 SI Read Ee SS ord Cape eter 9 ley eS ly WAL Je Jol yo 229 bol Ge AL35 92 295 pues GY ttad Ge sh eSlel UYSe Lhe dee pe ey OF 3) 2S Ole Atlas Ol
od Cre
a rage 9 pres S sly HW GQ N53 4 OW gly ated Glr at)! 1555 HES GS eNye Se Sf Gay Say, dy ONsy ty S 1s aed Ole sk cys dad ib gg ts yb eet le NGS gy oh lS of YG solo ag Ata d pS Keyl Gh gS Oe 9g COG (AI CMAN Hy GS) 6M) GILG) Ei) be Ny Bad Ghe Got 2d ole Gpb gol 2g CSL >
Coal oh age
4g VAAL Sle pplus 4 5yy yo dead Ghee
4 Am! slew Hb ot Ke os ey des i hcrey GILG “ale Galle stew Saket
UTS kp Oaocnueiaaee Ul Gags ee opel
SSS ey Sap de te ly Erte! ay ay
IS Naped gh Gh 3h dad Glee all
Meal gtd ay otygele 1) dggh OF “Ulezery y Gul basso) \ugee
gr dips SS opt opt
oul gate dS gh Nyt a arly aud
2 rCual
ty ele 52,5 gm gd) 299 pls 52" PySoy Se cro nna [gcygias) Meese | SEEMIKS od yp ze pl 5S ye ty etl Surge shy ICE) le pe S orgy Ae 123 vee UST 2 KES chy ON 4 vagy sila! go Sap Kl gry bo Hh Le Gyr Uy rh yo art GLI 52 dle shay wll Cady Aoogg dia y 45955 Jy te okt, ok! yy Ben olla sais e (se eiaes Se as Bley oie [nents olen alpaca dete ‘ wee eda Sls fy (5 olinsy> Az clyd 32 WL olt,{" thes! crabs, Sls y toryy oly oT athe
wdiale al Oz gel gy Abpea sheny" Si AIRS) Ay Sg eet
45335) 6d89,5 pyey, dS! yi 5) sls erysy She pl WS aettla wuslyd 05,5 quite .dtct{s plas ditsg> f455,3. 2 Wel tee sleet B35 BN oy che Seb Aye ALS UST dp gud ae Leslly le ylastsl gs
The American Baha’i / July 1988 / 23
2 pd Grd SW Lee 5! Gol
MARTYR'S PROFILE re VAY Sle ay Lead pert Ge Cae 3) A553 ery? gf A aly Oltee So OEMS den 2 95255 Sala ap gd Che yy fleslgsle glacl oye Ul wie wo Ty fy Su iy othe Arad Ez .s50,S Ws Jas sly! ae EL weg 9 tiley plist ay styal yo $y clea pays '2y492 C5 gh SS marta! ay Ange ple LEI 5h wdel yo
ayo Le os OL Vo yo tad ole ge A t AN ool fe 5 95 xyes! piste) cans 291) 1b) yo) aS senate td
297 op 4555
15S oe ded Wy Gody WBE ee
4 ns ye yo Lad Glee 6 shy » a (3) ieaal 1055 We Stree |e era serene 2 Se BI 93? ee Noble Ti te7F GES Spal slays Jew Cuyes G ded wogg Jaw OT hte gle y Gytto al ite y
SN yg gy An Je yb y VATA JL yo J? 8ged ES Sele MAYA Sle yo Sue Poy diye Gly Jew Qyae o po bel dg ASRS Gb ay Saow gaat) gy hte Con 29a afaf AST egleSY gaa gered “IAs! gh dy ee ety teed AIS! wll WW 3! y at 9 Se NWS ay Spe 52 9 Slay BILD lr, ly (B54) oly Ade delat a9 opel Glide
yw? VAY SLi age ob glyyy 31 GO ve 09,5 pehiur she spl gle eee pty cele go obs of ys
Sigel cal “Moe yo UI
Ay gl Spey ated Glee eddy GE yo ole! py wrt bag og Boy 99e & Sy ted gle 3 4th, ES wey few slacl 31 Kyo fo At lee A595 Shag dy skin pd JL wll dogs pa sme Aye 92 pte oT 42 WS ayy 99> yal ay
Ny 92 oF allow
(jeesasimigny tay yest tutes, 19
�[Page 24]
24 / The American Baha’i / July 1988
e + thigh pie pbs! Juic., Bytes file Gye gy SUES gts" segtay 23,5 Spare MSgi> Shon 3h doe Se Glgt5i el Ona ailaszomee as) 6 5| fess) ay liyiioa) ja) CL SME Sga> olge
"ioyle Cynry) CUS ps py diida>
HUQUQU ' LLAH
Giagegh WS Cul etinn Fy pt dingo 5f
Baha'i Huququ'llah ary 42 $) Wiayi>
DLoyl aya glo gh GG slits 4 4 Trust eAtyh 5
DOr. Amin Banani
Santa Monica, CA. 90402
Dr. Daryush Haghighi
Rocky River, OH. 44116
Or. Elsie Austin
P.0. Box 927 Silver Spring, MD. 20910
6 “ Opts Cakys y Slethl WS ly kes Gyi> ll Se olgte MiSgi> a bye
waged GSK UN Gyi> Ly, <3 bb Office of Secretariat
Baha'i Huququ']lah Trust
Rocky River, OH. 44116
feo lger es) lato ueaica oa eae
ANNOUNCEMENT BY PERSIAN INSTITUTE FOR BAHA'I STUDIES
athe Gyles Wy Ob ts fad San ls
Vy atte OIL et Getz 9 Lo alls “ake 5» FS I MLS gy gly Bly BE Sa Gre} tings pyot Ertbl olny Egdye dStore 5 Candy 9 Ody! 31 Canad SLeyt ly Uegdtann 6 apts
wd teh & Je G oly Oh ts als Cul gy del Ale cd 5ls) “od Sls"
wets WN 9 oe yge bE (Ae “Gl IN eas fete Bel coe Clg eeaesiny, a ijlee tally Vlog aici jee gh eSe, Glee FR). = wos
SP MES cole > Cyr Sel gee dlaratrte Uy ASW Soph Gh gerd Olly pl Gale “Ly (ANA) Yreo¥ ies obs gd GY 59 ped SS Ths fol yl gly BEL Mrs. B. Rezai
Granada Hills, CA 91344
(te! agee Gol pte 90 cigs , law! seats a,
RETIRED MEMBERS OF THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE TO TRAVEL IN THE U.S.
JS pltz Asylo ylaatal ugh oy Gly gle y Borrah Kavelin giylS Syyp Ghe sles} 5) 55 yo David Hofman jib 45.9 Cuptt Ne AS che y phel Jule Gl aS Soleaceaies elles ess \syere Ucn lh ete latipes wh ty Cad By pow 9 92 el pet OU! WH gh ley fiw S 3) pS ps du sie SITY! 59 Gigs lea! pls! Cyr oleul stays Cylel J aT ol! way yt fee a 5562
Sale Sle petign 32 gedle y galylS ablte lope CHtala Uae gi tal oemrasoece sles cals sre) Sbss pest paseo Se Cuan eo L oy die bts yp Qh gly Jin Ee Zl Acalge 9OS,5 43-5 alge State alee Sly! 4 erly 295de sles eS eg Cae Uy> “tated pLSh Cyr tly “tale Sythe 5 SET aby Gad vaylo Gud yo LS oS od ablee “Chsif al oye i Oplbus" “ney es 22403 ttaly> oll
SILI 2 gedle GE 4 gayF Gliz yye> AS WL yrter 32 sliizlegy Gedy ae Ge gat go OT Sly es 3h G Eat3S ulys wr SET 5h Olay) gs oaltul lel yee lel ye 52 WS dle Yo Sue yo pbiel Judie, IN 9 rb Sly Ulattls Cyne Bae dee Sl pl yd ule y Syst sdShoage Stal “doy a oT Uydo y
wth shee pith dullee, S y3b3 59 FS he ply Jib hus 4p,F J.6t5 sb gle gileyy iow VEA Je ob5 32 Sib Aus gates 9519 ogzy lle pul ne 52 wg 2S By Yors ue yy ule Qiky Sgr awicsl Abdo \\ASar Mle, Vole S paluec gee “es” sky alr JL Qysls & le tee fella oleaieg] Bohan, wg NN 3S Ko 35 Nga 9 ayy dS pd wafasbh Gite (asl 5° ty
dal Sled lye, ply 2 piel Iulia. Phe wl BS bee 32 Sule GIy re Vy Pash gy pS Syd y Coal yg ory Get S ANESL, gles LE ols, a ysl ob3 5 CGS iy! clon GG! alt wale olsly dla soplllie, 5) 0S GAapacalys Shes jo (5 ses 2 GHB Pr Goble Ee 4 GAS Glee Leds sayed Ltalyd Oley lel yee Gly get Gelb FERS) SIM: acass yn aegis oteesl POU MOLES Arcelie, cols!
bls gel 45> Gh
+ CBls Anal >
9 V3
wayle
Coy SPW Syl pel Cus 2a plas! Gh giley, fiw gaals Ua “yb cee ASSIS I yo WA oul 52 ayy5e US SN esl ay yd Shs pati Cos «lL Nong 9 sett 53 lel dye play p29 S thee 5 ted Crh vale Gliel 2 QL Yel Sys 2 Amey Als shal slpzl Ge gel Gu Cael ate OIL 39 ered A ygy “ae he Shs eS Shs yy dS slab ol cll 2? AE Malye SEF Gyle JA Sat 52 gate SN dole els 4 Lady ay arly asl 2S oul SES CN gy oS 09S ogd dy> “tats! plsl Se Ae Sib Letgif ali gys 5 OF" “ue, ap ghtgslS oGaryls oS gl ake at sal dy3 31 Sle sssto ols Gh Giles fiw tas Arges GIG oGBurks 3h yleey 2 Gels slab yly obT ako | 4s SH) 95 byS alge OgS Gy ogh 5,5 ts Sleds Cyr slakite, el syle sleuls LS 4 tls JL! Lb hy Jim 4 als Shas! 2S alias! ye OLT alyr WS legs 295 GBS) y 5k
S tobi Gt 5 1) Sere oT wer ap! OLT “ale WS fy gepe Glee y gts Sys Og eS bi 5 LG lye Gy lye Oly Ab LS ghlis be 3) QG dlyre dyye vtgles Ugh OT lal pans y yal geyee Oly Cedi jy ates 3 0 SIL, re sCaal ADS opal lite y ofS] fue Giny 59
dyke WIS sl alyz aeer 3) satgee 9 GaF> Tulle ye le S1e y yy GLr vAtyls alate phish Jug, dtydy play Feet Ay aS gyi ot yo S tale oS ath cel 3jle Ngee Wy AT Ganley cheda ney 4 del tee Gy Oleebl oly JE 1) agp Sprtle pee ples!
Col oY OT cer lay to a I Aer dalyd 5G yoy) 9 240d delyd ab Gy Mayda Atl Ny pe py SS) gat OIE FESS pas) os tly Sls Y aise OIL! bthy gle wiley) Jaw aytte ge Oply the
wage oF ple
ttyl shes pbel Judlcary
pyle ple Gap y Coal ane dae alten" Clee gS cl ey cle Ab y alp 9 teat Cyne Seen OL hg > atl dele G sige Calas “aS alist ol dort 9 OUgebl “ogeny 92 9 29h gh Gyke Yb yo y pry 2pealie Spt pe 4 coc pmarS aly rygne Oper
�[Page 25]
9 SIT ap Ogz gy A, date Slteeh!
Gre Y Hy aT Joby Spal y Soy
ely jew Ads oboe te 9 lett, »
sc Maas ci ES, Gb
yyy oglel dpe gh (Gelb) 5» Cage
jo apd Claggre Cyr (y pel Juilcey Old’
epeeetle ye! WL che SIb per der
» pl sbiayls
Motley gle gtayslS ened 9 atte
Vy Agese OT play Jpeg gobals y syne" pA] sayy Og! y ESI cy I SE S 9 poe SS dyke leo le oleaT ys «poulte S Gad dyie W295 opete 42 lye of plu eS th ee sags I Gh sky Jw fale pd Ske y Stl Salys aptatlon uly eS BT 9 S81) Cyl dbthe RE y Grew ‘liaison Sele seer Dare tg yt SY 2399 pag 29> yg 9 rym Oye 3) day "bel Judie,
ay OSS & aie OIL dlethy Gh giles jiow
adie ge Sly ight NSA LETTER FOR THE FEAST OF RAHMAT
ainte OI gh yiky, Jim ply “G25 arty Mo LNs Gils Cul, AAA dye VE
sie CALI tly Ula gy GS tle GaSe Olly
Bh ISS ges 9 Ke pth I chara SS yb agli cllys 5h oltgee Nyglde — CHS le ay eee of S ILE
aie enie cli Sere ieee NIST LES wastes | IRQ TS! ic) 5S panies) x preeus, pr mdlodes|s >
OL yz Gurls 65,4 , Gregory Institute
tts $y Ja ICUS Sal? taal Bihar Gas 35 42
Shee coh tle Sy g fy b sbcel-y atree stylet ped of GK chy. ges
SBayls plisl ule, ty, ply
ty gerel Sy 4 243 Ges 1)
eyes
sys AI A owl Ser hy ald shld (yeu polangllealS Gola Olas ble ‘ley! age le tig, eS Nae od OS gel GI oo del SIC lel ee ply AY Shey pe 85590 debs Sl ny SS elt let fale syljce glgd ntalde Weis 52 y gle Gy Le pel Silcey Cad ya S leat othe che ttyl te Sylee ploy oul v2
Bohs pie HC BES Cady" Cal 5S e039 EPS 9 Sante 9 Ngee oy ai! “whagt tay GE yetle ener 31 6
ay Dele of asfced jae. bis 42 ad an Cats “Wyny 9 9,5 ap ole fl OS TAH Goals) hay SN ghee eis Oa aS
9g he Ugo 253 99 ONgyge ol oS Bal skye Syyeeaminer I GSS Gurk oel Gly lend AU eb ds y dy oASle3ge 3 cggll Ola dy Gy¥ Grats
H Sowse OF SS > LS LG Coal dye gel optle Gla ytS GQ 45,5 b olLsl 9393 Ae ye ALG gue gat WL oT watch ge gly tte Je S Bly dL yy Obgle OT ay Slay Ngere OF ay Jas y her 4 PASAT euminete sacl) AamUgAY yetdy loos pale Cypher dade eee Vy) Cel 95 sleny NS o9 Shey phe rte bay 57 pil 9 othe sd Allgi ey tla seals Oye ol ali 30S 24 9 Oke Sb pty Gb Jin 4 dbs. 1S Ny PS Shp jh Alpe Gilde oo ASSND pay A853 tote le
ClS pw pel Jullcey “Msi jlo Gb 5f
ar ea ai Gr PU We ar NSA LETTER FOR THE FEAST OF NUR
einte OILS Gh sly Jim ply “uz5 avty Mo yyy Sil Cpaltsy VMAA dye 0
wie CULI thyy ele ay Glas tle Fest Hole
past delice ohysy ply adh worm & LU olgy se OT 3h pelts Tle! deged a Ly thee cal ote aS GAD uss) ae ehh (U3) iol eterna ts (4 peeralel “rales? 9 WNIT ole y2 agF sal Lule glic| See oe ay Sl BS yey OF Gee ey Metal tly SHENG eer lel Ge" del AN py Cy ye
SBS S Ly lease Syye etree Cole gy gh ley) ost sept! saegd 9 tthe hye Abend eye lich Jule aay 9d PO \ioye 3 cule eel wg Sa . . fons
dale lh ghd y5IS pegs 9 atte ous"
Ret (alee, 00) orp tye rate CFU Gale prim geste oper OS py yy ps! Sulla, 5 Hannisapeyse 9 BRAUViciausle> lhl 9 pp pl ppl Obl y Schechter aes +975 y Wolcott oy, ae aol SG Gees ees SH cob ye iy seel MES MIN SUS. ele cues ullass
SM sot wy
The American Baha’i / July 1988 / 25
~ . , ‘ Go tint
MESSAGES OF THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
wo YM boy peel dice, Gifs “L255 VAAA
pat ghe8 aryl Glas} Spe & olacaasileasatle, Sloe alsin ReLGH I> arte} 22hoe GET VNAA Sle ge YY IE GI 2 prpblatioe
r5s Pl! NZ AS eke we . Magdalene Carney 43,8 git gle . Hartmut Grossmann olny ,5 yc5yle Lauretta King KS Gy} pile vgnnd dyner poe . Donald Rogers Apel ass ole 3 So pe . Isobel Sabri cree desu! lista ing Gr y Joy Stevenson jus yerul
ee
. Peter Vuyiya SHENG Qype “WG Cal “haw crags he oa hS pat SN dey oul yo Abs He IG Nello Gell ye Ge & fy 99F Shy le er ol Anneliese Gh sJUl pe 4 oy edt OUT “GSI ele y ale OLS cys Bopp Sorat Alone GelBylo yo woke lvl pb 32
Asha
Caaf
piel Sully
we WY Soe pel dil, Gifs “ues VAAA
Petre | aS Sy ea gl sae | ged eazy yS Sole Y 1, 29d “Ula gle Gilde > yz New Southgate ag oat. By Spar Bye gol shied 3! Sop Wyn Rye Matte Glee yo ar yls omel dol suze OF Sf Calpe y Bam ga ely Ged ool gL Ciythes ale 9 SE Lest pe tle pli 29h pbs] dic. ;
pel Uidloey lsd yo bates VEY SLI 4S 0 VAAN lgz WW
pe) “WE ab toby, Lae il
they ster Teh) yl pel dual, Mae WS sru5t lash el ay lel dye Gob 3! ty Jed gy oh gy oy 45,5 y dS Serb 5h Tad gayl ssfacad Spitet Laltsohatgi ey elles) rath 3
tl ob gy stalls Gaze al of Soke
Aye ST bhp CULES 5p) hE Sul y
Be dbl, SLL, Cayley Gye Lyte
�[Page 26]
26 / The American Baha’i / July 1988
Native American Institute host
NATIVE AMERICANS
About 100 people, many of whom were not Bahá’ís, attended a Memorial Day weekend ‘‘Healing Gathering” at the Native American Baha’i Institute in Arizona dedicated to consultation on the healing of addictions and the elimination of alcohol abuse.
The three-day conference included Indian-style “‘talk circles,”” arts and crafts classes for children, traditional Indian sweat-lodge experiences, workshops, educational videos, and Navajo song-anddance socials.
Among the highlights was a presentation on Native-based healing
Baha’ top graduate
Cheri Wallace Matthews, a member of the Baha’i community of Knoxville, Tennessee, was among the top 14 graduates this spring at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville.
Based on her grade-point average, Mrs. Matthews was graduated first in the College of Agriculture.
and education by Larry Foster, a Navajo Indian activist who uses the sweat lodge as an approach to spiritual rejuvenation and emotional and physical healing for Navajo prison inmates.
Mr. Foster and his wife were warmly received by a predominantly Baha’i audience.
Other workshops included presentations and consultations about co-dependency, re-evaluation counseling, and the ‘“‘Baha’is in Recovery’’ program.
Local Navajos Andy and Verna Morgan, strong friends of the Faith, helped the Institute in carrying out the conference, as did a BIA (Bureau of Indian Affairs) school counselor who has become an enthusiastic friend of the Faith and who served on the Institute’s Addictions Task Force.
The conference was also blessed by the attendance of Billy Lee, a Navajo war veteran who joined the friends at the Institute on Memorial Day for dawn prayers and for the rest of the day’s sessions.
Mr. Lee poured his heart out in prayer and shared with the friends his military memorabilia. He was warmly included in the conference by all the friends.
Tim Kinney, a Menominee Indian folk singer, performs during ‘Honor American Indian Day’
‘Steffes Project’
Last year they were the Native American Baha’i Task Force. They held a conference, with one of its goals being to recruit new members. At that time they had four members.
Now, a year later, the membership has grown to nine, they have taken on a new goal, changed their name and held their first public event under that name, the Marian Steffes Project.
May 24 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The public event was sponsored by the Marian Steffes Project.
Pictured (left to right) at the Native American Bahá’í Institute’s
‘Healing Gathering’ May 27-30
s ‘Healing G
| 7
are Chester Kahn, Mark Hull and Phil Jamison.
athering’
“&
\shley addresses a ‘talk circle’ during the Native American Bahá’í Institute’s ‘Healing Gathering’ held May 27-30.
® SON OF BEING!
Thy heart is My home; sanctify it for My descent. Thy spirit is My place of revelation; cleanse it for my manifestation. -Bahá’u’lláh
honors American Indians
“Honor American Indian Day,” held May 24 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was attended by about 100 people.
The program was varied: native crafts of all types were on display and for sale; a table of literature was available; Nick Hockings, a Chippewa from Lac du Flambeau, displayed wood carvings; Auxiliary Board member Morris Taylor presented a magic show for about
American Indian Teaching Activitity June/July, 1988
50 children.
One goal of the project is to bring political factions in the Indian community together. Oneida, Chippewa, Winnebago, Menominee, and Stockbridge-Munsee all took part in this public event which focused on Wisconsin’s Indians.
Another goal is to find Indian people for possible enrollment later on. To facilitate this, a casual invitation to stay at the end of the day and hear about the project and find out about the Baha’i Faith was extended.
As a result, seven non-Baha’i Indians attended a fireside conducted by Mr. Taylor. In the afternoon, Tim Kinney, a Menominee folk singer, performed.
“An interesting observation is how well we worked together, this being our first planned activity,”’ said Patricia Miller, chairman of
Auxiliary Board members Nancy Phillips and Rick Wadleigh were joined by 30 of their assistants and some Navajo Bahá’í friends for a
conference May 14-15 at the Native American Bahá’í Institute in Houck, Arizona.
Archives has auctions mailing list
The National Baha’i Archives has developed a mailing list of those who would like to receive copies of its duplicate book auction catalogs. The Archives hopes to have two to three auctions of
duplicate books each year.
If you would like to be on the mailing list, send your name and address to the National Baha’i Archives, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.
disci
the Council.
CONTINENTAL INDIGENOUS COUNCIL
August 1-5, 1988 Indian Memorial Park, Mobridge, SD
For consultation among American Indian Bahá’ís. Non-Indian family members may attend.
Featured activities include major presentations, workshops, sion groups, the honoring of elders, and a giveaway. Indians will gather from all parts of North America on Monday, August Ist, for two days of camping before the actual Council events begin on Wednesday, August 3rd, and continue until Friday evening, August Sth. There will be pow-wows in nearby communities on the weekends preceeding and following
Hope to see you there! For more information contact: National Teaching Committee Baha’i National Center Wilmette, IL 60091 Phone: 312/869-9039
the Steffes Project.
“Our group is so vital, so full of energy and unified. We were certainly successful in fulfilling our goals.
“We feel very lucky to have native and non-native believers working on this project with skills applicable to the task.”’
UNITED NATIONS
‘Global Cooperation for Better World’
New United Nations program has broad vision
UNQ&A
Question: Where are the Bahá’í offices located in New York City?
Answer: The offices of the Bahaé’{ International Community @IC), the International Office of Public Information (OPI), and the U.S. Baha’i UN representative (U.S./UN) are located within onehalf block of the United Nations headquarters.
Q: What benefits are derived from this proximity?
A: The Bahá’í offices are frequently the site of non-governmental organization (NGO) committee meetings, receptions for prominent visitors and UN personnel, and ad hoc consultations with NGO representatives. It is here that consultations with Baha’i representatives from other national communities and committees often take place. Personnel from BIC offices in other countries meet here, as well.
Q: How are the three Bahá’í ofJices arranged?
A: The Baha’i offices are situated in a 5,500-square-foot suite on the first floor of the building. The suite includes a conference room, communications center, kitchen facilities, and individual offices that accommodate a staff of 18. The offices are tastefully furnished; decorative accessories include gifts from Bahda’is of several countries and cultures.
Q: What part of the office facilities comprise the U.S. Bahá’í UN office?
A: The U.S./UN office has a staff of two, the representative and an assistant, each of whom has an individual office.
Q: In what ways do the three ofSices (BIC, OPI, U.S./UN) interact?
A: Interaction and cooperation are the main characteristics of the combined agencies. Each day is begun (9 a.m.) with the entire staff gathering for prayers. (Note: Many on staff commute long distances from Connecticut, New Jersey and upstate New York.)
After prayers, pertinent announcements and reports of activities of general interest are shared. Task forces for special projects are generally made up of personnel from each office. All offices share the central services of switchboard, mai! handling, reception and communication facilities.
This continuing inter-agency cooperation adds special impetus to Baha’i approaches to issues of international importance and bodes well for the success of efforts on all fronts.
Arise! To Teach
Have You Had Your
Word of God
UNITED NATIONS
On April 21, a project called “Global Cooperation for a Better World”’ was launched at United Nations headquarters in New York.
The aim of the project is to encourage individuals and groups from all sectors of society to come together and develop a vision of what a better world could be like.
The process can help develop skills that further the art of cooperation and put forth courses of action designed to make the vision a reality.
The positive visions (no negatives allowed) are to be written down and sent to a ‘‘bank”’ of ideas and actions called the Global Cooperation Bank.
The ideas and actions will be dedicated to the United Nations and will be presented to the UN in the spring of 1989.
The motto at the reception was “think globally, act locally.’’ More than 100 delegates attended including ambassadors or their representatives from every continent and high-ranking individuals from the UN Secretariat.
Dr. James Grant, executive director of UNICEF, shared his personal vision, saying, ‘‘In a sense what we are seeing here is a series of examples of changing values, changing ethics, that some individuals have pioneered but (they
Persian/Americans in Portland hold big ‘Unity Pow-wow’
The Area Persian/American Affairs Committee of Portland, Oregon, has been actively encouraging community fellowship, taking its cue from an ancient American Indian custom.
During Ayydm-i-Ha, the committee organized a Unity Powwow with a potluck dinner thrown in for good measure.
More than 200 Baha’is and their non-Baha’i friends came together for this touched-up native ceremony: 40 Persians—mostly refugees—45 Americans, 25 children and about 100 American Indians.
A Baha’, Dr. Nosratullah Rassekh, presented a brief talk on Ayy4m-i-Ha and what it signifies for Baha’is.
The program seemed to be wellreceived by the Indians, who have extended an standing invitation to the Baha’is to attend their regular Ppow-wows.
The Area PAAC of Portland had similar success with its Naw-Rúz party which attracted more than 300 Baha’ is and their friends.
Again, the ethnic mix was diverse: American Indians, Hmong and Eastern Europeans as well as the American friends.
have been) abetted by a great number of others. The values of our society have changed.””
The honorary chairman is Mrs. Marcela Perez de Cuellar, wife of the UN Secretary-General.
Letters of encouragement for the project have been received from many notables including Mr. Perez de Cuellar; former President Jimmy Carter; and President Corazon Aquino of the Philippines.
Launch activities also took place in the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Brazil, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Kenya, Mauritius, India, and Thailand.
In the U.S., the cities of Los Angeles, San Francisco, Miami and Boston participated.
Entertainers at the UN event included Baha’is Red and Kathy Grammer with the children from Lakeside School, Peekskill, New York, singing ‘‘Teaching Peace’’ to conclude the afternoon.
The Baha’i International Community was represented by Dr.
The American Baha’i / July 1988 / 27
Bahá’í singer/songwriter Red Grammer and children from Oakside School in Peekskill, New York, entertain during the inter Victor de Araujo.
For more information about Global Cooperation for a Better World, write to Shirley Lee, UN
national launch of ‘Global Cooperation for a Better World’ at UN headquarters in New York on April 21.
Representative, U.S. Bahá’í UN Office, 866 UN Plaza, Suite 120, New York, NY 10017 (telephone 212-751-1282).
Six local Spiritual Assemblies to take part in UN program to heighten awareness of Africa’s social/economic problems
UNITED NATIONS
An effort encouraged by the National Spiritual Assembly has sparked participation by six selected local Spiritual Assemblies in a project called ‘‘Africa FoGuat
The principal sponsor of the project is the United Nations Non-Governmental Liaison Service. A co-sponsor is the YMCA of the U.S.A. whose branches will serve as liaisons at the local level.
The sponsors chose six pilot cities (Atlanta, Georgia; Birmingham, Alabama; Boston, Cincinnati, Pittsburgh and New York) to initiate efforts designed to heighten nationwide awareness of. the critical plight of an entire continent: Africa.
Africa was described by the Guardian, Shoghi Effendi, as an area of the world which is ‘“‘truly awakening and finding herself and (which) undoubtedly has a great message to give and a great contribution to make to the advancement of world civilization.”
The locai task forces in the six cities are composed of civic leaders and representatives of various non-governmental organizations including the Baha’i Spiritual Assemblies.
Their goal is to produce an awareness in the community of Africa’s economic and_ social problems and of several African initiatives that are being taken to help solve those problems.
American partnership in longterm solutions is crucial to the suc
Seminar?
=
If not, contact: National Teaching Committee Baha'i National Center Wilmette, IL 60091
312/869-9039x231
. Washington, DC 20009.
If you are in public health...
The National Spiritual Assembly would like the names of Bahá’ís who hold advanced degrees or have considerable experience in the field of public health. Opportunities arise in which the National Assembly would like to be able to call upon those with expertise in public health to represent the Faith at national events.
Qualified individuals are asked to send resumés or descriptions outlining their skills and experience to the National Spiritual Assembly Office of External Affairs,
cess of African development efforts.
Although participation was optional, all six local Spiritual Assemblies have chosen to join the effort.
The first and second phases of the project, which involve task force formation and consultation, have already begun.
Third-phase activities will in clude community-wide conferences or symposiums on Africa, teacher workshops for curriculum development, fact-finding missions, lecture series at universities, media roundtables, and other means of generating interest and enlisting support.
Acceptance of these opportunities promises to bring the twin rewards of service and recognition to those Assemblies taking part.
Pioneering from page 6
kinds. To be killed for the Cause is not so difficult as to live for it in absolute obedience to the commands of God.
“To attain to the condition of Mirzd Abu’l-Fadl who cared for nothing in this world save to write something for the Cause that will be of benefit, or like Mirzd Haydar-‘Alt, who cared not for money, clothes or even food, but only to teach someone something about the Kingdom; this is real attainment to the plane of sacrifice.
“And without attaining this condition, all efforts are without any final result. One who cares for love for husband, wife or children more than for the Cause of God has not attained.”*
When I became a Baha’i, my Baha’i teacher was getting ready to pioneer. I was born into the Faith thinking that pioneering is what you have to do. Prepare yourself as quickly as you can and go. And that’s exactly what I did; I quickly finished school and went pioneering.
One of the greatest gifts of pioneering, one of the bounties of God, is a condition that I call “consciousness of one’s dependence on God,” that is, consciousness of your dependence on Baha’u’ll4h for everything.
It is a blessed state. You don’t depend anymore on your credit card, or your: job, or your title. You are not dependent on those things because you know that they Pa nothing. They are ashes and
it.
You are dependent on the Source of all power, the Source of all glory, the Source of all majesty, the Source of all goodness and love. You are dependent on Bahá’u’lláh Himself.
And you feel so secure. You feel that there is nothing that can hurt you. You are not afraid anymore. You are not afraid to take the step of faith. Like Rihiyyih Khanum’s little poem:
“Faith is walking
“‘where there is no path,
“seeing where there is no light
“breathing where there is
“no air.”
You are no longer afraid to go anywhere and do what the Faith needs you to do.
Venezuela invita jovenes a conferencia
E] Comité Nacional de Jovenes de Venezuela extiende una cordial invitacién a los amigos baha’is a la Conferencia Internacional de J6venes en Maracaibo, Venezuela, del 18 al 21 de agosta de 1988.
El tema de la Conferencia es “La Juventud Sirviendo a la Humanidad.””
La Conferencia contaré la presencia de los Consejeros Dr. Farzam Arbab, la Sra. Isabel Pavon de Calderén y el Dr. Peter McLaren.
El propésito primordial de esta Conferencia es el de promover el Movimiento de Juventud en CoJombia, Ecuador y en Venezuela.
Para més informacién, por favor de comunicarse con el Comité Nacional de Jévenes al Centro Nacional Baha’i al 312-8699039 0 escriba al: National Youth Committee, Bahd’{ National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.
�[Page 28]
28 / The American Baha’i / July 1988
The sixth Baha’i International Convention
aaPry,
Left: The Ninth Day of Riḍván is commemorated at the Shrine of the Bab. In the front row (second from left) is the Hand of the Cause of God ‘Ali Akbar Furitan; behind him and to his right is the Hand of the Cause ‘Alf Muhammad Varga. Above left: delegate Eusebio Marca Fily from Bolivia to speak during consultation. Above right: Delegates Lyn Vitols of Norway (left) and Jone Wagqavesi of Fiji in front of the Seat of the Universal House of Justice. Right: Delegates from Mali and Sierra Leone chat in the gardens near the Shrine of the Bab. Below left: The magnificent view of the terraced gardens on Mount Carmel as seen from the top walkway of the Seat of the House of Justice. To the right is the International Archives Building. Below right: Delegates to the International Convention visit the House of Abbud in ‘Akká.
�[Page 29]
The American Baha’i / July 1988 / 29
The sixth Baha’i International Convention
Left: Delegates to the International Convention stroll along the
top walkway of the Seat of the
Universal House of Justice with
hanging gardens in the rear and
Mount Carmel in the background.
The building at top right is Nof
Hotel where many of the delegates
stayed during the Convention.
Above: Colorfully costumed delegates from Swaziland flank another from Korea. Right: Delegates
in the courtyard of the House of
Abbud in ‘Akká. Below left: Bob
Napily, a delegate from Papua
New Guinea, in colorful native
dress. Below right: A delegate
JSrom The Gambia comes onstage
to cast his ballot for election of
the Universal House of Justice;
looking on from the podium is the
chief telle, Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh, a member of the U.S. National Spiritual Assembly. Six
hundred sixty-three delegates representing 132 of the world’s 148
National Spiritual Assemblies
were present at the Convention;
members of other National Assemblies voted by mail.
- ”
All photographs copyright © 1988 by Paul Slaughter
�[Page 30]
30 / The American Baha’i / July 1988
Special Visit Program a ‘warm, moving experience’
HOUSE OF WORSHIP
The first Special Visit Program of the summer has just been completed. For the staff at the Baha’i House of Worship, it was a particularly warm and moving experience.
Some of the passages from the group’s evaluation sheets reflect what we hope participants will
take away with them:
“This Special Visit has been like a mini-pilgrimage for me—very ‘special.’ ...It was the first time since visiting the Shrines at the World Center that I felt I was ‘at home.’ I felt that his House of Worship was my home; and I could feel that in the middle of this continent, from which exudes uncaring attitudes and the loss of the links that bind us together, there is indeed a sanctuary. Thank you.”
“Tt has greatly increased my
From the House of Worship
a Rekha §
emit mis
The Baha’i House of Worship presents a variety of teaching opportunities that are available nowhere else. When the choir director from the Robert M. LaFollette High School in Madison, Wisconsin, phoned to arrange a tour of the House of Worship for his Senior Choir, we had no idea of the special experience we were to enjoy.
During the telephone conversation he remarked how the students would like the opportunity to sing at the Temple ‘‘sometime.” In a later call, we o“*ered them the opportunity to sing as part of a special devotionai service and asked if some of the students would also take part as readers. He was delighted, and asked if he and one of his fellow teachers could be included as readers.
When they arrived, their concern that they show proper respect for the House of Worship and follow any guidelines we might have was quite evident. We gave the choir director copies of the Writings and prayers of Baha’u’llah to be read. He scanned them, nodded in agreement, and picked what he considered ‘‘the best” for himself.
The spirit that emanated from the readings, and the beautiful choral singing, gave joy to all hearts. It was over far too soon. We returned to the Visitors’ Center where a guide showed the visitors the audio-visual presentation in Foundation Hall.
Several days later the following letter was received:
““We have a real gratitude to you and the staff of Baha’i Temple for our visit on May 13th.
“The memories are limitless. The excitement of singing in one of the truly awe-inspiring monuments of the human race, the sharing of words and thoughts strong for the saving of humankind and the preservation of eari he cordiality and sincerity of your service to us, and of course, the beauty and serenity of the Temple ... we remember and have a real joy.
“Tm sure that many of our choir will return again and again during their adulthood. I’m sure that every time we see a picture of Baha’i that there will be a flood of emotions and precious memories.
“*Your service and friendship to us is lasting and truly appreciated. We trust that we satisfied your expectations of us for our visit, our manners, our attention, our purposes, and our music. In all, we shared a very special gift, and that gift, given and received, and again, gift-wrapped for the future.
“Thank you and deep peace be in your life.’”
The hearts of the staff of the House of Worship are truly touched, and our sense of purpose is strengthened by such responses to the service we offer to visitors.
We feel great love and excitement when one we’ve been teaching declares his faith in Baha’u’ll4h. One of the greatest means of introducing a new believer to teaching and serving is at the House of Worship. Here one’s inhibitions just naturally disappear as the need for greeting and talking to the visitors is greater than any fear one may feel.
‘Abdu’l-Bahá wrote: “Lay your confidence in the everlasting bounty, turn to the presence of the generous God; ask assistance JSrom the Kingdom of Abhd; seek confirmation from the Supreme
World; turn thy vision to the horizon of eternal wealth; and pray Sor help from the Sources of Mercy! (Bahá’í World Faith, p. 351)
And again: “‘Be ye not seated and silent! Diffuse the gladtidings of the Kingdom far and near to the ears, promulgate the Word of God, and put into practice the advice and covenants of God; that is, arise ye with such qualities and attributes that ye ‘may continually bestow life to the body of the world. ...Enkindle with all your might in every meeting the light of the love of God, gladden and cheer every heart with the utmost loving kindness, show forth your love to the stranger just as you show to your relations.”” (Bahá’í World Faith, p. 353)
awe and appreciation of this beautiful House of Worship, deepened my respect and admiration for the early American Baha’is and the sacrifices they and the Iranian believers made to build this House of Worship.
“Also, it has. significantly increased my awareness of how crucial it is that we sacrifice today to complete the buildings on the Arc on Mount Carmel. I will convey that to Indianapolis.”
“The tour of the National Center increased my understanding of the administrative order, and the level of competence, intelligence and humility demonstrated by the administrators was impressive to me. I feel strengthened in my loyalty to my NSA, and my vision of the World Order of Baha’u’llah has been brought into better focus.
“In short, I have been deepened in the Baha’i Faith, and am sincerely grateful to all those dear Baha’is who worked hard to make the Special Visit Program possible.””
“(The Special Visit Program has) inspired me and given me a new spirit and understanding of the Baha’i Faith and daily life and how these two can be merged.”
“Tt was very nice to have had the opportunity to read in the
the Bahá’í House of Worship are Baha'is from across the country
House of Worship, to tour the National Center and meet the staff.”
“It’s like a picture is worth a thousand words. One visit is worth a thousand American Baha’i News. If more people realized it, you would have many more visitors.””
We are considering an ‘‘extra’”’ Special Visit Program this fall to
who took part May 26-29 in this year’s first ‘Special Visit Program’ at the House of Worship.
accommodate the large number of applicants this year.
If you are interested in taking part, drop us a line at the Baha’ House of Worship, Wilmette, IL 60091. Let us know when you could come; this will help us to decide the best time to schedule another program. And keep reading The American Bahá’í for further details.
San Francisco sets
The Spiritual Assembly of San Francisco is sponsoring a four-day conference on courtship, marriage and family life during the Labor Day weekend (September 2-5) at the Bahá’í Center in San Francisco.
Among the outstanding speakers expected to take part in the event are Mrs. Margaret Ruhe, author of Some Thoughts on Marriage; Mrs. Mary Hardy, former secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly of the United Kingdom; and Dr. David Ruhe, a member of the Universal House of Justice.
The conference, designed especially for singles, will consist of four main sessions:
1. The purpose of marriage.
four-day conference on marriage, family
2. Courtship: knowing oneself; preparing for marriage; active vs. passive approaches; being single.
3. Courtship: level of expectation; role of changing times (traditional vs. modern society); intercultural and interracial dimensions.
4. Family life: what it entails; bringing up children; links with courtship and purpose of marriage; divorce.
Workshops will be arranged around topics of the sessions.
The conference registration fee ($25) must be received by July 31. Send to Courtship Conference, San Francisco Baha’i Center, 170 Valencia St., San Francisco, CA
94103. Please include your name, address, phone number, age, and Baha'i I.D. number with your registration fee. Checks should be made payable to the Spiritual Assembly of San Francisco.
Special lodging rates from $10$45 a night have been secured for the conference. For hotel bookings, please phone 800-422-3646 or 800-221-6470 or 800-227-4747 to ensure a place to stay during the busy Labor Day weekend.
When phoning, please identify yourself as a Baha’i conference participant.
More details about the conference may be obtained by writing to the above address or by phoning 415-524-8272 or 415-431-9990.
Most Holy Tablet © Glad Tidings
e Tablet of Wisdom
PS $4.50
Tablets of Baha’u’llah
The sixteen Tablets included in Tablets of Baha’u’llah were revealed by Baha'u'llah after the formulation of the laws and ordinances of the Kitab-i-Aqdas. Shoghi Effendi characterized these Tablets as “mighty and final effusions of His [Baha'u'llah's] indefatigable pen.” They are Tablets that ‘must rank among the choicest fruits which His mind has yielded, and mark the consummation of His forty-year-long ministry.”
These significant and much loved Tablets include the: Book of the Covenant
Tablet of the World
From the U.S, Baha'i Publishing Trust
Bahda‘i Distribution Service
415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091 Tel. 1-800-999-9019
�[Page 31]
The American Baha’i / July 1988 / 31
10 YEARS AGO
The 69th Baha’i National Convention, the largest and in many respects one of the most memorable ever held, is charged with an air of unshakable optimism and bold determination as more than 1,200 believers from throughout the U.S. gather May 25-28 in Wilmette to elect the National Spiritual Assembly and consult on the goals of the Five Year Plan which ends on April 20, 1979.
Among the special Convention. guests are the Hand of the Cause of God William Sears and Counselor Edna True. And for the first time, invitations to attend are sent to members of local Spiritual Assemblies in the specially designated goal states of California, IIlinois and New York, and to Assembly members from Indian Reservations in the U.S.
Others attending include 15 Auxiliary Board members and 10 Bahá’ís from Bermuda, which is under the jurisdiction of the U.S. National Spiritual Assembly.
The members of the National Assembly are Dr. Daniel C. Jordan, chairman; Judge James F. Nelson, vice-chairman; Glenford E. Mitchell, secretary; Dr. Dorothy W. Nelson, treasurer; Dr. Magdalene M. Carney, assistant secretary/administration; Soo Fouts, assistant secretary/teaching; Richard D. Betts; Franklin
4 ae and Dr. Firuz Kazemza Nearly 500 delegates from 108 of the 123 National Spiritual Assemblies in existence are present for the fourth Bahd’{ International Convention held April 28May 2 in Haifa, Israel.
Elected to five-year terms on the Universal House of Justice are Hugh Chance, Hushmand Fatheazam, Amoz Gibson, David Hofman, Borrah Kavelin, Ali Nakhjavani, David Ruhe, Ian Semple and Charles Wolcott. ...
“Definitive Encouragement Always Dramatically Leads Individuals to Necessary Endeavors’’ (DEADLINE) is the theme of a recent teaching conference in Moline, Illinois, sponsored by the four-month-old Spiritual Assembly of Silvis, Illinois. ...
A talk by Counselor Edna True and visits by Glenford E. Mitchell, secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly, and Soo Fouts, who holds the newly created National Assembly office of assistant secretary for teaching, set the tone of a mass teaching/consolidation institute held June 3-4 in Skokie, Illinois.
Held as a result of a suggestion at the 69th Baha’i National Convention in May, the institute is attended by 17 Bahá’ís from the goal states of California, Illinois and New York, and by others from Colorado, Florida, Louisiana, North Carolina, Oregon, South Carolina, Texas and Washington state.
They consult with and advise the National Teaching Committee, which feels that while individual teaching and firesides must continue, mass teaching and consolidation are necessary to bring a sufficient number of ‘‘waiting souls’’ into the Faith to raise the local Spiritual Assemblies and open the localities needed to win the goals of the Five Year Plan. ...
JoAnne Menking, Knight Baha’u’llah to Cape Verde Is.
JoAnne Menking, who with her husband, Howard, was designated a Knight of Baha’u’llah by the Guardian, Shoghi Effendi, for their pioneering work in the Cape Verde Islands, died May 26 at her home in Dallas, Texas. She was 61 years old.
Mrs. Menking became a Baha’i in 1950, and left that same year with her husband to pioneer to Brazil.
In 1953, when the Guardian called for pioneers for the Ten Year Crusade, the Menkings, having returned to the U.S., were quick to respond.
On her pioneer application form, Mrs. Menking wrote, ‘As the Guardian stresses pioneering so much, there seems no choice but to go.’”
The Menkings reached the Cape Verde Islands, off the western coast of Africa, on January 5, 1954.
As the islands were a territory of Portugal, the Menkings’ knowledge of Portuguese, gained during their pioneering stay in Brazil, was a great help in establishing the teaching work there.
After four years on the Cape Verde Islands, the Menkings returned to the U.S.
Later, they served as pioneer representatives for three Southwestern states on behalf of the International Goals Committee, and continued to serve in the international field through their many teaching trips to South America, Africa and Europe.
Cynthia Olson, 84, Knight of Baha’u’llah, dies at post in Guam
Cynthia Olson, a Knight of Baha’u’llah to the Mariana Islands, died May 14 at her pioneering post in Guam. She was 84 years old.
Born November 7, 1903, in Hennepin, Illinois, Mrs. Olson: was graduated from Indiana University with a degree in psychology and philosophy and some training in journalism.
She and her husband, Edgar (Olie), had a grocery business in Wilmington, Delaware, where Mrs. Olson served on the Spiritual Assembly, when they responded to the Guardian’s call for pioneers for the Ten Year Crusade.
The Olsons volunteered to go to a European island, but instead went to Guam. As Mr. Olson had to remain in the U.S. for a time to sell their business, Mrs. Olson went ahead and became a Knight of Bahá’u’lláh when she reached Guam on May 14, 1954,
Mr. Olson joined her the following year.
Naomi Oden, Michigan Baha’i who received ’86 Kellum Award, dies
Naomi Oden, a Baha’i from Highland Park, Michigan, who in 1986 received the National Spiritual Assembly’s David Kellum Award for her work with young people, died May 26 in Southfield.
Mrs. Oden, a Baha’i since 1949, helped establish the Elmhurst Home in 1974 for men who were victims of alcohol abuse.
In 1987, she won the Spirit of Detroit Award for her work with drug abusers.
IN MEMORIAM
Ruth Abbott Lakeport, CA
Esther Davison Ochopee, FL
Josephine Hipp
Clarence Lowe
Apache Junction, AZ Richland, GA
February 12, 1988 February 26, 1988 April 24, 1988 February 1988 Buster Adams Elizabeth DeBruin thal Horne Jack Luallen Lydia, SC Kenosha, WI Richland, GA Pageland, SC April 8, 1988 April 25, 1988 March 1988 Date Unknown Norman Akien Ratha Mae Dewitt Marjorie Horton Maggie Luff Ruffin, SC Whiteville, NC Mt. Clemens, MI. —- Windsor, CA August 10, 1987 November 1986 November 2, 1987 April 23, 1988 Ruby Lee Allen Dorothy Mae Dixon Bennie Howard Raia Richland, GA Latta, SC Richland, GA Ren February 1988 February 1984 February 1988 Juned, 1987" Ethel Almond Norma Dixon Georgessa Hunter Rich; a Mark: Roswell, GA Macy, NE Sacramento, CA San Francisco, CA 1987 April 8, 1988 Date Unknown April 24, 1988 Beatrice Ashton Joyce Eldred Mose Hymer William McCormick Cleveland Hts., OH Chicago, IL Pamplico, SC Jacksonboro, SC May 8, 1988 December 26, 1986 Date Unknown January 1988 Stuart Ayshford Horace Emery Edith Jackson Australia McDonald Rochester, MN _Pioche, NV Hartsville, SC Lakeview, SC May 19, 1988 April 1988 November 1987 Date Unknown Jesus Baiza Atanacio Farinas _‘Irene Jackson fe Cashion, AZ Wapato, WA Hawkinsville, GA bouvenia McFadden 1987 Date Unknown September 1987 Date Ur aca James Faust Nancy Jackson , Ann Be Blackville, SC_ Chesterfield, SCY. Anne Menking Hawkinsville, GA Dallas, TX Date Unknown December 1987 Date Unknown May 26, 1988 Willie Benson Romaine Firemoon Mabel James Brian J. Miller Clemson, SC Wolf Point, MT Rimini, SC Lakeport, CA Date Unknown February 10, 1988 Date Unknown February 8, 1988 Walter Blackmon Emery Ford _ Deane ee. Helen B; Miller Richland, GA 1987 Date Unknown 1987. February 1988 i Lanuel Ford Roy W. Jensen i W.M. Boatwright Taras OO C Lebam, WA Elmo Mitchell Pamplico, SC 1988 Date Unknown Odessa, TX May 22, 1985 “ ee iyaasca ee ane Lo8T, Isabel Boldes EGS aire Harold E. Moore Albuquerque, NM arch 1087 Date Unknown Sacramento, CA fi Date Unknown May 6, 1987 Clifford Foye Cordelia Johnson Annanias Bowens ~— Dawson, GA Lockport, LA hie: Mosiueds abies Date Unknown 1977 February 1988 Date Unknown : ieee Beante\Peciionss «atten 4 Octavia Fredricks ata Murphy’ Wilma Bowers San Jose, CA Dawson, ie pitier BG: Warsaw, IN April 21, 1988 Date Unknown October 8, 1987 April 13, 1988 ‘Annie Gerideau Louanna Jones Reather Nelson Beatrice Bryant Walterboro, SC Pamplico, SC Walterboro, SC Smoaks, SC January 1988 1986 January 1988 December 1987 Doris Gibson J.W. Kavanaugh , Waley Bryant Paladenal CA. Lancaster, KY Ne ie Sen Smoaks, SC Dite Unknown, 1987 Datel eka Ay Date Unknown een Granatian Margaret Kemp ‘Timothy Burns Maa) CA State College, PA Rachael Patterson aap Colton, CA Be Cone sTheador’, Als Pine Ridge, SD Date Unknown _—-March 20, 1988 Ne ions Date Unknown : William F. Keye caring ‘nities! Bisa Charlie Greene Coeur d’Alene, ID__Lewis Potter Federal Way, WA Effingham, SC Date Unknown Monterey, CA ‘April 7, 1988 March 1988 Subsutktigrana ¢ + QDW 15y9e8ing Dora Gregory Philadelphia, PA Richard Provancial Albert Butler Gaffney, SC March 17, 1988 Mission, SD Makah Res., WA = May 1988 Coline Kit Date Unknown Date Unknown Arthur L. Grier Jacksonbore,SC__-Ella Puumann Jack Cantsee Dawson, GA Delt Ui El Paso, TX Towaoc, CO Date Unknown ene September 1987 February 8, 1988 3 ae ee eeeiacl Doris Ratliff Nancy Carmichae! Dine Guidici | Bishopville, SC Chesterfield, SC Lakeview, SC , August 1987 Date Unknown February 20, 1988 abrick 1987 pes , Frederick Laws Anita Redbird , Rúḥíyyih Haghani port Angeles, WA Annie Bell Carter — sacramento, CA Date Unknow Laveen, AZ Theodore, AL July 4, 1987 euuknown 1986 Date Unknown : H.B. Lee Rosa Redfair Freeman Clayton Albert Ham — Maricopa County, AZ _Bishopville, SC Lilly, GA Cash, SC April 13, 1988 February 1988 February) 29,71988 <j Ov een Laverne Rhode John C. Collins Evelyn Ham Sells, AZ Portsmouth, NH i Cash, SC 7 Yucaipa, CA Date Unknaiii December 8, 198 July 20, 1986 Date Unknown > crate Rufus Little Thunder Calperta Richardson Jennings Connaway Mary Harmon Parmelee, SD Hartsville, SC Davenport, TA Pamplico,SC 1987 Dee yakiawn April 18, 1 1987 1 Andy D. Davis June Harris Jessie Robe _Luther Robinson Lilly, GA Pasadena, CA ‘April 5, 1988 Pageland, SC April 3, 1988 Date Unknown or January 1988 Don L. Davis Roystine E. Hart Christine Lofstedt —_ Violet Robinson Clio, SC Riverside, CA Indio, CA Pamplico, SC Date Unknown March 29, 1988 Date Unknown Date Unknown
Arthur Rozier Macon, GA March 1987 Helen A. Salter Marion, IA February 19, 1988 Iraj Sami Cypress, CA June 2, 1986 Kelly Sampson Jr. Ellaville, GA March 1988 Jerollus Sanders Walterboro, SC October 2, 1985 Wilbert Sauceberry Lockport, LA Date Unknown Fred Savage Spokane, WA Date Unknown
James Scales Lac du Flambeau, WI June 15, 1987
Mattie Scott Orlando, FL February 1988 Cleo Seabrook Ruffin, SC December 1986 Lizzie Sellers Cheraw, SC Date Unknown
Lillian Shortman Malta, MT
April 20, 1988 Katharine Smith West Chester, PA November 30, 1987 Lonzo Staley Denmark, SC May 1985
James Stephens Ruffin, SC
Date Unknown Virginia Stevens Silver City, NV April 1988
Esther Terroni Sacramento, CA Date Unknown Betty Tiffany Amherst, NY October 1987 Hossein Tomlinson Santa Rosa, CA August 29, 1987 Azizullah Toufigh Orange, CA
May 6, 1988
Eunice Van Sluizer San Francisco, CA October 5, 1986 Gayle Varner Richland, WA February 27, 1988 Sean M. Vasquez Wapato, WA January 6, 1988 Edna Wafer Bakersfield, CA April 7, 1988
OllyMae White Wenatchee, WA March 18, 1988 John Wiggins Lakeview, SC Date Unknown
Date Unknown
Rosalie Woodard
Theodore, AL
Date Unknown
�[Page 32]
32 / The American Baha’i / July 1988
On March 12, Bahá’ís in the greater Memphis (Tennessee) area were among 50 groups sponsoring and taking part in an International Woman’s Day event at the Martin Luther King Jr. Labor Center in Memphis. The Bahá’ís had a dis a play table, a poster exhibit, showed the ‘Mona’ video all day, and handed out pamphlets to a large number of visitors. Seen at the Bahá’í booth are (left to right) Diana Chambers, Manooch Ḥakími, Mary Register and Mark Gilman.
Naw-Rúz celebration among highlights in March at House of Worship in India
The highlight of activities during March at the Baha’i House of Worship in Bahapur, India, was the Naw-Rúz celebration sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of New Delhi.
Included in the program, which drew an audience of more than 300, was chanting by a 26-member choir. The Temple was specially illuminated for this joyous occasion.
During the nine-day Navratri Mela (Fair) organized each year by the nearby Kalkaji Temple, the House of Worship received some 112,365 visitors.
Haifa
de pag. 20
Asambleas Nacionales que tienen metas ¢ intereses mituos. Estas se realizaron en los dias anteriores a la apertura de la Convencién y de noche después de las sesiones generales, siguiendo muchas veces hasta muy tarde.
Consejeros de todos los cinco Cuerpos Continentales asistieron ala Convencién—16 de Africa, 16 de las Américas, 12 de Asia, 8 de Australasia, y 9 de Europa—un total de 61.
Se realizaron reuniones y eventos especiales para los Consejeros bajo el patrocinio del Centro Internacional de Ensefianza. Cinco sesiones ‘‘continentales’’ se realizaron para los miembros de cada uno de los Cuerpos de Consejeros y los miembros de las Asambleas Espirituales Nacionales de la zona.
Despues de la Convencién, del 3 al 8 de mayo, las Manos de la Causa y los Consejeros se quedaron en Haifa para participar en una conferencia de Consejeros y en consultas con la Casa Universal de Justicia y con el Centro Internacional de Ensefianza.
".. mevist all the centers where you have already sown the seed, in order to water the seedlings that have taken root and to sow fresh fresh good seed in the prepared ground.” (on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, 9 April 1925)
Jose Hermogenes de Andrade, a well-known writer from Brazil who had visited the Temple in March 1987 and made a video tape which he later presented to the Bahd’{ community of Rio de Janeiro, returned this year with his wife and a group of 21 Brazilians, one of whom is a minister of the Catholic Church.
At their request, a special prayer program with only Baha’i prayers and recitations was arranged, and when the visitors came out of the prayer hall they said they had felt ‘‘the presence of God”’ inside.
Jagdish Dhingra, an engineer who first came to the Temple in the company of the head of the Laxmi Narayan sect, visited again with two friends, one of them an engineer from Illinois.
This gentleman was much impressed by the Baha’i principles, and the first question he asked after seeing the audio-visual program was, “‘How can one become a Baha’i?”’
After a gap of five months, two groups of Israelis visited the House of Worship. They proudly said that they live close to our Holy Shrine in Haifa and have visited it too.
One of the women said, ‘‘I like the Baha’i philosophy; it is so open, it is for everybody.’”
It has been noted that more and more visitors of Islamic background are visiting the Temple, especially younger people, and that they are asking pointed questions. One Muslim youth was so attracted by the Baha’i principles and the House of Worship that he declared himself a Baha’i.
Among the dignitaries visiting the House of Worship in March was Dr. John B. Taylor, secretarygeneral of the World Conference on Religion and Peace International.
Others included Col. Gen. Wolfgang Reinhold, deputy defense minister of the German Democratic Republic; Margaret Catley Carlson, president of the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA); Dadi B.K. Prakashmani, administrative head of the Brahmakumaris; Stephen Lewis, the Canadian ambassador to the United Nations; and Dadi Hari Devi Vaswani, a revered member of the Sadhu Vaswani Mission.
MOVING? I TELL US YOUR I NEW ADDRESS
To avoid unnecessary delays in receiving your copy of The American Bahá’í, send your new address and your mailing label to MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS, Baha'i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, as soon as you know where you are going to move and what your new ad 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.
Eda have the same last name.
the last names and addresses on our
We do not want extra copies, so address labels do not match exactly.
J] please cancel the copy for the 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 1.D. numbers, and the corrections so that we will receive ‘only one copy.
Our household receives only one copy of The American Baha’. | wish to receive my own copy as well, and have listed my name, 1.D. number and address above so that I may be put on the mailing list to receive my own copy.
Wilmette, Illinois 60091
I I I 1 x dress will be. 1 lie | I IDA Title Full name—Please DO NOT use nicknames 1 I>. | 1 IDt Title Full name I 3. IDF Title Full name : 4. ! 1D¥ Title Full name | I ! I B—NEW RESIDENCE ADDRESS: C—NEW MAIL ADDRESS: I House/Space #, Street or Description P.O. Box or other Mailing Address :
- Gity State Zip Gity State Zip
1 D—NEW COMMUNITY: I | I I Name of new Baha'i community Moving date I I E—HOME TELEPHONE NUMBER: F—WORK TELEPHONE NUMBERS: I I! Please indicate in the right-hand space whose work numbers these are. I L L [Area Code ~ Number Area Code Number Name I | be I Area Code Number Name [| © We receive extra copies because: I I ! I I | I ! l 1
NON-PROFIT ORG. US. POSTAGE PAID WILMETTE, IL, PERMIT NO. 479
BAHA’{ NATIONAL CENTER
Baha’i directs medical team’s visit to Honduras
In the spirit of Ayydm-i-Ha, Dr. Timothy Thurber, a Bahda’i who is a pediatric specialist at [llinois Masonic Hospital in Chicago, planned and directed a trip by medical personnel to Honduras.
During the week of February 22-28, Dr. Thurber, two other pediatric specialists and a nurse, all from Illinois Masonic Hospital, examined patients, gave instructive talks to medical staff, and arranged for the delivery and distribution in Honduras of 600 pounds of medical supplies which were donated by several pharmaceutical companies.
The supplies were divided among Project Bayán, a Baha’i clinic in the remote Caribbean coastal region of Honduras; the Hospital Escuela, which is the country’s main public hospital; and the Friends of the Americas clinics.
The purposes of the trip were to provide an exchange between the Honduran and American medical communities, extend the role of the physician beyond national boundaries, and provide an opportunity for physicians and other
health care professionals of both countries to become better acquainted with Baha’ principles.
The arrival of the medical team coincided with the arrival of a new echocardiogram machine at the Hospital Escuela.
Thus one of the team members, Dr. Andrew Griffin, a pediatric cardiologist, was able to instruct the staff in the use of the new equipment.
Dr. Violetta Angara, a pediatric neurologist, shared her expertise and humane approach with her fellow professionals and made many contacts to supply scarce
and valuable medical supplies and continuing assistance for the care of several particularly difficult cases.
The other member of the team, nurse Rachel Godinez, presented several talks to the nursing staff at the Hospital Escuela, emphasizing the vital role of nursing in medical care.
As Dr. Thurber was the only Baha’i member of the team, the others were able to gain an increased awareness of the Faith and, hopefully, will feel inclined to continue their investigation of its teachings.
American Baha’i family.
ating the project.
“Baha’i Services Fund.””
Teaching Guidelines updated, revised
Teaching Project Guidelines, produced by the National Teaching Committee, has been updated and revised and an appendix added on helping Indo-Chinese refugee Baha’ is integrate into the
These guidelines are designed to help a community prepare and carry out a teaching or service project. Included are sections on project planning, securing resources needed for the project, implementing plans, monitoring and reporting progress, and evalu Teaching Project Guidelines is available for $2 per copy from the National Teaching Committee, Bahd’{ National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. Checks for orders should be made payable to
�