The American Bahá’í/Volume 2/Issue 10/Text
| ←Previous | The American Bahá’í October, 1971 |
Next→ |
 Proofread onceReturn to PDF view
|
Plan Now for Commemoration of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Passing[edit]
Calling upon the entire Bahá’í World to befittingly commemorate the Fiftieth Anniversary of the passing of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, The Universal House of Justice has asked all National Spiritual Assemblies of the world to set aside the weekend of November 26 to 28 for this purpose (Message from The Universal House of Justice to all National Spiritual Assemblies dated July 12, 1971 reprinted in THE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í, August 1971). Special gatherings and conferences are to be convened during this weekend, which includes two Bahá’í Holy Days—The Day of the Covenant and The Ascension of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.
These gatherings are meant to intensify the devotion of all Bahá’ís everywhere and provide them with an opportunity to renew their faith and rededicate themselves to the work of the Faith. They will focus on three major themes: The Bahá’í Covenant, The Formative Age, and The Life of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.
The National Spiritual Assembly will be sponsoring special institutes and commemorative gatherings at the House of Worship in Wilmette and at the permanent Bahá’í Schools at Green Acre, Geyserville, and Davison. Bahá’í communities which are unable to take advantage of these events are urged to plan local activities for all of the friends.
Listed on page 3 are some suggested materials which may be helpful to local communities in planning appropriate activities.
An Open Letter From Hand Of The Cause Mr. William Sears[edit]
TO: The “torch-bearers of a new, world civilization” - The American Bahá’í Community
Beloved friends and co-workers:
What a wonderful month we shall soon enter! November, 1971!
November marks, as you know, the Fiftieth Anniversary of the Administrative Order of Bahá’u’lláh. At that same period, we commemorate the peerless and unique Day of the Covenant, a Covenant the like of which the eyes of men have never before seen. November also marks the half-century that has passed since our beloved Master ascended to the Abhá Kingdom, leaving behind a legacy that will live forever in our hearts and in the affairs of men.
What a bounty for us that this year the State Conventions should come shortly before this historic Anniversary. This will give us, the American Bahá’í Community, an opportunity to demonstrate to the world our gratitude to the Blessed Beauty, Bahá’u’lláh, for all the bounties He has continually showered upon us. This will be an opportunity for those who have not been able to participate in the mass teaching to have a share in a special victory of their own. We can have the largest attendance ever in the history of these Conventions if we all are determined to set aside that occasion for Bahá’u’lláh.
Imagine this: When we are assembled at this year’s State Convention to elect the delegates, we shall be choosing those delegates who will elect the National Spiritual Assembly at Riḍván 1972. Why is that so significant? Because those nine members of the National Spiritual Assembly will be part of the electorate that will gather in the Holy Land at Riḍván 1973 to elect the members of The Universal House of Justice! At this State Convention, we shall be participating in that three-stage election described by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá which would raise up this “sole refuge for a tottering civilization.” What an exciting picture it brings to mind. We are participating in this Plan of God which has already sailed His Ark on the side of God’s Holy Mountain and has already manifested “the people of Bahá”, the men of the House of Justice. And you and I are a part of it!
It is for this reason that I have written this letter to all the Local Spiritual Assemblies, groups, and isolated believers, to urge them to make a supreme effort this year to be present at these historic State Conventions. It is our hope that every Local Assembly will make an inspired effort to assure the attendance of everyone in their community. Please share this letter with all the dear friends.
(continued on page 2)
[Page 2]
Mr. Sears (continued from page 1)
Only the future will properly understand the spiritual significance of this coming November and its impact on history, and the elections held at this time. These Bahá’í elections, local, national, and at State Conventions, are not something separate from the rest of our Faith; they are not merely an Administrative act and duty; they are a holy, sacred privilege and responsibility that derives from the Supreme Pen of Bahá’u’lláh Himself. That unique and “rarefied atmosphere” that should pervade all Bahá’í elections is indeed born of the Breath of the Holy Spirit.
In this marvelous month of November, we also commemorate the Birthday of the Blessed Beauty, Bahá’u’lláh; and we celebrate the two Feasts of Power and Speech, surely two tools for enrolling the masses. In addition, we honor that heroic woman, Lua Moore Getsinger, the Mother-Teacher of the West, who was born one hundred years ago on the first of November. It should be a time of great victory as we look back upon the past fifty years, and ahead to the next half-century that lies before us.
Let us exert every personal effort to make this year’s State Convention the most enthusiastic, eager, and sanctified of any State Convention we have yet shared together; above all, let us make it the best attended in history. Let every radiant Bahá’í be there to shine with happiness at the wonder of our Mighty Cause.
The Confirmations will be “raining down from on High” on that occasion. What a pity if any of us should miss our share. These historic State Conventions can pave the way for a succession of victories leading up to the Fiftieth Anniversary of the establishment of the world-healing Administrative Order of Bahá’u’lláh.
With warmest and tenderest love to each one of you, the “stalwart champions of the New World Order,” my fellow Bahá’ís in the United States.
Periscope[edit]
Jamal (Beauty) was the name adopted by a team of Bahá’í youth who set out to take the Message of Bahá’u’lláh to the Indians on the Southern Ute Reservation in southwestern Colorado. “Jamal” was based on the principle of prayer, meditation, deepening, and teaching.
Mark Reddy, Barry Stewart, and Diane Johnson from Colorado; and Joe Zambrano from Texas.
The teaching team gave the following message to the Southern Ute Tribal Council, who in turn gave the Bahá’ís permission to use tribal facilities for showing the film, IT’S JUST THE BEGINNING:
“He is the Loving, and the Provider of all mankind! We are Jamal—Beauty. We bring the glad tidings of the oneness of all peoples, and of all nations, and the fatherhood of the Great Spirit. If it be your desire, we wish to share with the Ute peoples the joyous hope of black, white, American Indians, and of all peoples, of all walks of life, gathered together in a spirit of Love and Unity, as shown in a film, IT’S JUST THE BEGINNING. For too long have our peoples been wandering, seeking direction, thirsting for truth, and yearning for understanding, and praying for the arising of Justice! The new age is coming, and ‘It’s Just the Beginning.’ ”
The Jamal team also showed the film to a Ute Teen Group, who have asked the Bahá’ís to continue to come back.
In addition, the team set up a Bahá’í window display in Ignacio on the Reservation, talked and gave pamphlets to many interested people, and held deepenings on Bahá’í Conduct, the Conference of Badasht, Enrolling the Masses, and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Significance to the Present Day Bahá’ís.
Joe Zambrano, the team’s journalist, wrote the final entry as follows: “The laughter, the deep spiritual experiences, the constant being together. And having to push the car to start (each time) after the starter went out, having to sit cramped in the car with the rain coming down, traveling 150 to 200 miles almost every day. The coming together of four people all different, all independent, all Bahá’ís...the mixing of these people—mixing of arts and talents, abilities... And above all, a desire in all of us to tell people of the Truth in their lives... the coming of Bahá’u’lláh.”
Southern Colorado was happy to have the bounty of such a team of devoted and steadfast Bahá’ís.
Mass teaching efforts are becoming more and more successful in southern COLORADO. Trinidad, Pagosa Springs, and Alamosa, each with large Spanish-speaking populations, are now among some of the new areas responding to the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh; and combined efforts with northern Colorado have proved fruitful in Glenwood Springs! Consolidation helpers and travel teachers have been aiding the deepening work.
The Southern Colorado District Teaching Committee is helping Northern New Mexico in certain areas and is also working with the Southwest Indian Teaching Committee to open up and expand the Ute teaching efforts, and reach the Indian students at Fort Lewis College in Durango.
The Cortez/Montezuma County Bahá’í groups held the Feast of Asmá’ under the shelter of a pinto bean warehouse during a heavy rainstorm. The Feast was most inspiring.
Several Bahá’ís attended the Sun Dance Ceremony on the Southern Ute Reservation and talked with Mr. Eddie Box, Sr., the Sun Dance Priest, following the three-day dance. Mr. Box was presented with several Bahá’í books, which he gratefully accepted.
A significant breakthrough in the area of indigenous teaching was made recently in the Cariboo region when seven residents of the Bonaparte Reserve located near Cache Creek, British Columbia, Canada, accepted the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh. This is the first Indian Reserve in the Cariboo region, which is located in the south end of the district, to be opened to the Faith.
The success of the venture was due almost entirely to the remarkable efforts and talents of a musical/teaching group called THE HOLLOW REED, whose home base is in NEW MEXICO. This group of seven young Bahá’ís put on a musical show at the Community Hall located on the Reserve and presented the Faith so beautifully that six youth and one adult were moved to embrace the Faith.
Cheyenne, Wyoming’s 75th Annual Frontier Days celebration was expected to draw about 160,000 people, and the Bahá’ís intended that the majority of them would hear of Bahá’u’lláh. A building with a display window facing the parade route was rented, and the film IT’S JUST THE BEGINNING was to be shown several times during the day.
(continued on page 8)
[Page 3]
‘Abdu’l-Bahá (continued from page 1)
REFERENCES ON THE BAHÁ’Í COVENANT:[edit]
The Covenant is, of course, the foundation of the Faith of God. Without it the forces of the Cause would be scattered and its purpose brought to naught. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá explains that it is the axis of the oneness of the world of humanity and the most great characteristic of the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh. A study of this subject may include the following:
From Bahá’u’lláh:
- The Book of the Covenant (Kitáb-i-‘Ahd), BAHÁ’Í WORLD FAITH, p. 207
- The Tablet of the Branch
- BAHÁ’Í WORLD FAITH, p. 204
From ‘Abdu’l-Bahá:
- The Covenant
- BAHÁ’Í WORLD FAITH, pp. 357-359; also, p. 247, last paragraph
- The Master’s Last Tablet to America
- BAHÁ’Í WORLD FAITH, pp. 429-438
From Shoghi Effendi:
- The Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh,
- GOD PASSES BY, pp. 237-243
- The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh
- WORLD ORDER OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH, pp. 3-10
- The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh: Further Considerations
- WORLD ORDER OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH, pp. 15-26
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE FORMATIVE AGE[edit]
The ascension of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ended the Heroic Age and began the Formative Age of the Bahá’í Faith. In a letter dated April 15, 1971, the Universal House of Justice asked all National Assemblies to educate the friends in the significance of this Formative Age. The study and understanding of this subject will immensely strengthen the Faith of the believers as well as their ability to present the Message to a waiting world. The House of Justice itself has provided us with the following references as an aid to this educational program:
THE WORLD ORDER OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH:
| p. 89 | “The passing of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ... chief institutions.” |
| p. 98 | “With ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s ascension ... Golden Age of our Faith.” |
| pp. 143-144 | “ ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Who incarnates ... whole of mankind.” |
| p. 168 | “Dearly-beloved friends ... destined to inherit. |
| p. 170 | “As we view ... are passing. |
| p. 171 | “It is not my purpose ... all mankind.” |
| GOD PASSES BY: | |
| p. 324 | “The moment had now arrived ... Jesus Christ Himself ... |
| p. 325 | “The last twenty-three years ... His Father’s Dispensation ... |
| p. 326 | “The Administrative Order ... religious systems ... |
| p. 328 | “The Document establishing ... Kitáb-i-Aqdas ... |
| CITADEL OF FAITH: | |
| pp. 4-5 | “The first seventy-five years ... five thousand centuries ... |
| p. 6 | “During this Formative Age ... upon all mankind.” |
STORIES OF THE LIFE OF ‘ABDU’L-BAHÁ:[edit]
|
Qualities to Live By
Letter from the Guardian to the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States and Canada, March 22, 1937. (Published in BAHÁ’Í NEWS, No. 108, June 1937.) |
The life of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá is the perfect example of Bahá’í conduct, and the stories and anecdotes of His life constitute a delightful and meaningful subject for study. Here are a few such stories to choose from:
‘Abdu’l-Bahá in wartime: THE CHOSEN HIGHWAY, pp. 189-190
The Master’s Birthday: THE SHELTERING BRANCH, pp. 69-71
Teaching Christians: PORTALS TO FREEDOM, pp. 47-49
His humility: THE SHELTERING BRANCH, pp. 42-44
Forgiveness and love: THE CHOSEN HIGHWAY, pp. 162-163
Irresistible personality: PORTALS TO FREEDOM, pp. 117-120
Service to all: PORTALS TO FREEDOM, pp. 84-85
SUGGESTED DEVOTIONAL READINGS FOR THE COMMEMORATION OF THE ASCENSION OF ‘ABDU’L-BAHÁ AT ONE O’CLOCK SUNDAY MORNING:
(Selections may be added or removed from the following program to suit local circumstances)
BAHÁ’Í PRAYERS, pp. 93-94, Selection No. 75
THE WORLD ORDER OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH, pp. 135-136, “O Thou who art ... unto all peoples.”
GOD PASSES BY, p. 311, “Till the very last day ... reunion with Him.”
WILL AND TESTAMENT OF ‘ABDU’L-BAHÁ, p. 10, “O ye that stand fast ... Threshold of Bahá!”
BAHÁ’Í PRAYERS, p. 48, Selection No. 34
BAHÁ’Í WORLD FAITH, p. 429, “O ye friends ... Book of the Covenant.”
BAHÁ’Í PRAYERS, p. 137, Selection No. 6, The Tablet of Visitation
Announcing Special Deepening Conference[edit]
The friends are warmly invited to attend a Deepening Conference sponsored by the Continental Board of Counsellors, the weekend of November 26-28, 1971, at the Philander-Smith College in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Further announcements about reservations and registration will be forthcoming—watch for them!
|
THE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í is published monthly by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois, 60091. Material must be received by the 15th of the month prior to publication. Black and white glossy prints should be included with material whenever possible. Articles and news written in a clear and concise manner are welcomed from individuals as well as assemblies and committees. Address all mail to: The American Bahá’í Editorial Office, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois, 60091. |
State Conventions[edit]
|
October 17, 1971
STATE AND NUMBER OF DELEGATES
October 24, 1971
|
October 31, 1971
PERSON TO RECEIVE MAIL BALLOTS
|
*Contact District Teaching Committee
CONVENTION SITE
November 7, 1971
PERSON TO RECEIVE MAIL BALLOTS
|
November 14, 1971
|
| Index | |
| Alabama (Northern) | Oct. 24 |
| Alabama (Southern) | Oct. 17 |
| Arizona (Northern) | Nov. 7 |
| Arizona (Southern) | Nov. 7 |
| Arkansas | Oct. 31 |
| California (Northern No. 1) | Oct. 17 |
| California (Northern No. 2) | Oct. 24 |
| California (Central No. 1) | Oct. 31 |
| California (Central No. 2) | Oct. 31 |
| California (Southern No. 1) | Nov. 14 |
| California (Southern No. 2) | Nov. 7 |
| California (Southern No. 3) | Nov. 14 |
| Colorado (Northern) | Oct. 31 |
| Colorado (Southern) | Nov. 14 |
| Connecticut | Oct. 24 |
| Delaware | Nov. 7 |
| Florida (Northern) | Oct. 24 |
| Florida (Southern) | Oct. 31 |
| Georgia (Northern) | Oct. 17 |
| Georgia (Central) | Nov. 7 |
| Georgia (Southern) | Oct. 31 |
| Georgia (Eastern) | Nov. 14 |
| Idaho | Oct. 24 |
| Illinois (Northern) | Nov. 7 |
| Illinois (Southern) | Oct. 17 |
| Indiana | Oct. 24 |
| Iowa | Oct. 31 |
| Kansas | Nov. 14 |
| Kentucky | Oct. 31 |
| Louisiana | Oct. 17 |
| Maine | Oct. 17 |
| Maryland/D.C. | Nov. 7 |
| Massachusetts | Oct. 24 |
| Michigan | Oct. 17 |
| Minnesota | Oct. 17 |
| Mississippi | Oct. 24 |
| Missouri | Nov. 7 |
| Montana | Oct. 17 |
| Nebraska | Nov. 14 |
| Nevada (Northern) | Nov. 7 |
| Nevada (Southern) | Nov. 7 |
| New Hampshire | Oct. 17 |
| New Jersey | Oct. 31 |
| New Mexico (Northern) | Nov. 14 |
| New Mexico (Southern) | Oct. 31 |
| New York (Eastern) | Oct. 31 |
| New York (Western) | Oct. 31 |
| North Carolina (Eastern) | Nov. 14 |
| North Carolina (Central) | Nov. 14 |
| North Carolina (Western) | Nov. 14 |
| North Dakota | Oct. 31 |
| Ohio (Northern) | Oct. 17 |
| Ohio (Southern) | Oct. 24 |
| Oklahoma | Nov. 14 |
| Oregon | Oct. 24 |
| Pennsylvania (Eastern) | Nov. 7 |
| Pennsylvania (Western) | Nov. 7 |
| Rhode Island | Oct. 24 |
| South Carolina (No. 1) | Oct. 24 |
| South Carolina (No. 2) | Oct. 31 |
| South Carolina (No. 3) | Nov. 7 |
| South Carolina (No. 4) | Nov. 14 |
| South Dakota | Oct. 24 |
| Tennessee | Nov. 7 |
| Texas (Eastern No. 1) | Oct. 17 |
| Texas (Eastern No. 2) | Oct. 24 |
| Texas (Western No. 1) | Oct. 31 |
| Texas (Western No. 2) | Nov. 7 |
| Utah | Oct. 31 |
| Vermont | Oct. 17 |
| Virginia (Northern) | Nov. 14 |
| Virginia (Southern) | Oct. 17 |
| Washington (Eastern) | Nov. 14 |
| Washington (Western) | Oct. 17 |
| West Virginia | Oct. 24 |
| Wisconsin | Oct. 24 |
| Wyoming | Nov. 7 |
HOW I SPENT MY SUMMER VACATION[edit]
by international youth projecteers
No greater demonstration can be given to the peoples of both continents of the youthful vitality and the vibrant power animating the life, and the institutions of the nascent Faith of Bahá’u’lláh than an intelligent, persistent, and effective participation of the Bahá’í Youth, of every race, nationality, and class, in both the teaching and administrative spheres of Bahá’í activity.
The Latin American projects began with the training institute in Puebla, Mexico, “four of the soul-raisingest, lovingest, learningest, humblingest, happiest days of my life!...We made some pretty wonderful friends, prayed together, sang together, deepened together and one day went into nearby pueblos and taught together. The hospitality of the pioneers and Mexican Bahá’ís was the warmest, the food the bestest, the classes the most chock-full of information, love and inspiration, the country beautiful, the experience unexplainable.”
Nicaragua Project
“...for the first time since November, when I declared, I’ve put all my thoughts and all my life into the faith...”
Peru Project
“...It has really been such a growing and confirming experience to be here. It’s simply incredible...”
Peru Project
“The one idea that I came away from the project with was that direct teaching works and is applicable to most, if not all strata of society. All we have to do is to take the Message of Bahá’u’lláh to the people and He will do the rest...”
Swiss Project
Though lacking in experience and faced with insufficient resources, yet the adventurous spirit which they possess, and the vigor, the alertness, and optimism they have thus far so consistently shown, qualify them to play an active part in arousing the interest, and in securing the allegiance, of their fellow youth in these countries.
“It amazed me what a small group of believers (such as we were) can accomplish when we arise in service to the Cause. The Europeans, still bitter from the war and victims of the materialism that is engulfing the world, were not easy to reach, but we prayed and made efforts and Bahá’u’lláh did the rest. The new Bahá’ís we found were so uplifting...it was truly the beginning of a tidal wave which will engulf all of Europe!”
Swiss Project
“...I’m now applying to Latin American universities. I’ve got a goal, finally! Which feels good. Last year, I quit school because I didn’t know what to study—everything offered seemed to begin with words and end with words. Well, now I know that there are many real immediate needs in the world. The first is the need for Bahá’u’lláh and the other needs resulting from the need for Bahá’u’lláh, such as health education, medical service and education, etc. all of which offer us paths of service and opportunities by which to teach by example...people really are starving—it’s not just a statistic read from a book...So this project has done a lot for me...it’s given me a direction to go and made me look at my life, and life in general, from a different point of view.”
Nicaragua Project
“This summer has been a tremendous deepening experience...Somehow it has rid me of the rebellious feelings left over from pre-Bahá’í days and thus developed in me a fuller understanding of moderation. It impressed upon me the importance of giving to the U.S. National Fund. I grew to appreciate a different way of doing things and understand better the principle of unity in diversity. The warmth expressed to me made me feel more than ever like a citizen of the world. I think the project could aptly be termed a training ground for future pioneers for it has increased my longing to serve Bahá’u’lláh and especially to pioneer for Him.”
Belize Project
“For your information, the total number of declarations registered in Switzerland since the beginning of May 1971 exceeds 250...Please convey to the National Spiritual Assembly of the U.S., as well as to those LSAs and believers who deputized participants in the project, the expression of our deep gratitude. Let them know that the entry by troops has now started in Europe.”
“...Awareness that times are changing in the progress of the Faith in Europe; a deeper sense of responsibility; the need to reach minorities, including the relatively large foreign, mainly Italian labor force; new degrees in service; the devotion of the new believers who vie with the American youth for new victories; the radiant happiness of the hardworking old pioneers and veteran believers who can at long last harvest a first measure of their efforts—all these are signs of a new spirit animating the body of believers in the heart of Europe.”
Swiss Project
“...I not only rank this summer as one of the Important Experiences of my life, but I also intend to repeat it on a more permanent basis...”
“...I thought at times that perhaps this project was a kind of Divine Trap; that because I was quite comfortable physically and never very ill and did not seem to be having a hard time at all, I would conclude that pioneering really wasn’t all that rough, take off to pioneer permanently, and then find out what it was really like. If it is a Divine Trap, I think I am falling for it, because I know now that I am going sometime, whereas before I was only considering it...”
Guatemala Project
And Next Summer[edit]
RAISE THE BANNER OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH in Latin America, Europe (and maybe even Africa!)
Start now to make plans...
Learn Spanish, French, Italian or German.
Save money...
Projects cost from $300 to $600 including transportation.
Watch THE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í for further information on Summer Projects ’72!
PERISCOPE[edit]
(continued from page 2)
The Ninth Annual Neah Bay Council Fire in WASHINGTON was held August 14-15 on the Makah Indian Reservation, and this year’s weekend event was spirited by a direct teaching campaign named “Project 70 and 2.” It was a “mass encounter” with the residents of the Makah Indian Reservation. The following pictures and captions capture but a small part of the spirit and thrill that this teaching experience brought to all those whose privilege it was to be there.
Friends engaged in the “mass encounter” which yielded a beautiful harvest of 14 new believers during the proclamation event and several more since then.
New believers being warmly received into the family of Bahá’u’lláh.
Entertainment included songs by the J’nai Singers, Indian dances by friends from the Poorman Reserve in Saskatchewan, Canada; and group singing led by Laurie Carter and Roger Olson.
Treasurer’s Corner[edit]
BASIC PRINCIPLES OF GIVING[edit]
We must never lose sight of those basic principles given to us by Shoghi Effendi which are eternally applicable:
- The Fund is the bedrock of all the institutions we are laboring so hard to construct.
- Contributions to the Fund are completely and totally voluntary.
- Contributions are a sacred obligation of each Bahá’í.
- Every single Bahá’í should participate by giving to the Fund, no matter how small the amount.
- Regularity of giving is an essential consideration.
- To be truly meritorious, contributions to the Fund should involve some element of sacrifice.
- The Fund should be a regular subject of consultation at Feasts and Assembly meetings.
CONTRIBUTING TO THE FUND[edit]
Individual believers, Bahá’í groups, and Local Spiritual Assemblies may contribute to each of the following funds:
THE INTERNATIONAL BAHÁ’Í FUND: For support of the work of The Universal House of Justice at the World Centre and elsewhere. Make check or draft payable to the “International Bahá’í Fund” and send to:
- International Bahá’í Fund
- The Universal House of Justice
- Bahá’í World Centre
- P. O. Box 155
- Haifa, Israel
THE CONTINENTAL BAHÁ’Í FUND:
For support of the work of The Continental Board of Counsellors for North America. Make check or draft payable to the “Continental Bahá’í Fund” and send to:
- Continental Bahá’í Fund
- 418 Forest Avenue
- Wilmette, Illinois 60091
THE NATIONAL BAHÁ’Í FUND:
For support of the budget of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States, including its various agencies. Monies are also allocated from this Fund for support of the above and other special Funds. Make check or money order payable to the “National Bahá’í Fund” and send to:
- National Bahá’í Fund
- 112 Linden Avenue
- Wilmette, Illinois 60091
THE LOCAL BAHÁ’Í FUND:
For support of the budgets of each Local Spiritual Assembly or group as established by each community and handled by each local treasurer as “The Bahá’í Fund of...........” Such contributions are IN ADDITION to, and do not take the place of, contributions made directly to the other funds listed above, although a portion of all local funds is normally sent to the National Bahá’í Fund and optionally to the other funds.
A Child’s Sacrifice[edit]
The first child under fifteen to register as a Bahá’í in northern California District No. 2 is eleven years old. After her declaration, she quietly put a Kennedy half dollar she had saved for three years in an envelope and sent it to the National Bahá’í Fund in honor of the occasion. This was a great sacrifice for her and we are very proud of her!
Only 29% of the LSA’s Earmarked Youth Contributions For Month of Asmá’[edit]
A recent youth contribution analysis shows that the percentage of Local Spiritual Assemblies earmarking youth contributions is very low. During the month of Asmá’, for example, 420 Local Spiritual Assemblies contributed to the National Bahá’í Fund, but only 98 earmarked contributions for the youth goal.
The importance of earmarking youth contributions coming through Assemblies might be illustrated by our performance last year. Bahá’í youth contributed $170,000 toward a goal of $200,000, with an average of only 39% of the Local Spiritual Assemblies earmarking youth contributions each month. If this percentage could have been increased, perhaps the $200,000 goal could have been won!
Reach Campus Leaders With Message Of Bahá’u’lláh[edit]
A little over 100 years ago Bahá’u’lláh penned Tablets to the kings and religious leaders of the world, proclaiming His Message and summoning them to respond to the Call of God.
Upon rejection of His Message, Bahá’u’lláh uttered these prophetic words: “From two ranks amongst men power hath been seized: kings and ecclesiastics.”
One hundred years later, The Universal House of Justice presented to 140 heads of state, THE PROCLAMATION OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH. At the same time, the Bahá’ís were commanded to take the Message to the rest of humanity. Each individual believer, therefore, has a great role to play in “the spiritual conquest of the planet.”
We must realize that the time in which we live is critical, and that we will have to brace ourselves in preparation for the attacks which The Universal House of Justice has told us are bound to be directed against us as we march onward. The work of bringing Bahá’u’lláh’s healing Message to the leaders and masses of the world is truly colossal—and yes, the Bahá’í Faith is peace, brotherhood, fun, guitar-playing and love; but it is also hard work, suffering, sweat, sacrifice, tears, and a long, thorny road!
If we look at our Bahá’í history, we shall see that it is studded with heroic deeds, courageous acts, and supreme sacrifices. But we must “outshine the deeds of the past.” We must perform deeds of such sacrifice and devotion that they will “sweep away every obstacle from the onward march of the Cause of God.”
The time is short and opportunities are unlimited. As we enter our month-long proclamation to campus leaders throughout the United States, we must act promptly and decisively. Some of us will feel confident and adequate to proclaim to these leaders the Message of Bahá’u’lláh. Others may lack confidence and feel inadequate. We must all put our whole trust and confidence in Bahá’u’lláh, and proclaim His glorious Message. Some of us will meet a warm and enthusiastic response; others will experience the sting of sarcasm and belittlement. All of these experiences—positive and negative—are to be expected on the path to the true liberation of men, and the establishment of the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh.
As we proclaim the Message to the campus leaders, remember: WE ARE BAHÁ’ÍS! WE have the MESSAGE! WE are the real campus leaders! Let our goal be the spiritual conquest of the campus!
Send Correct Mailing Address[edit]
The Office of Youth and Student Activities has sent material to all campus clubs regarding the Campus Teaching Campaign for 1971-72. If your club has not yet received any material it is simply because we do not have your correct address. Please write immediately so that you can plug in to the campaign and share in the glorious victories which lie ahead:
- Office of Youth and Student Activities
- 112 Linden Avenue
- Wilmette, Illinois 60091
Attention Junior High School Students[edit]
Since the announcement of additions to the Five Year Youth Program, one of the goals being to establish 10 junior high school clubs, the Office of Youth and Student Activities has received three requests, one each from California, Illinois, and Florida, for the necessary materials to have such clubs established. With one junior high school club already in existence, we now have a potential total of 4 clubs! FANTASTIC! The junior high school club goal could easily be the first of the campus goals to be reached at the rate we are going.
If there are two or more Bahá’ís on your campus, write to us for materials and get into the mainstream of the 1971-72 Campus Teaching Campaign. Please write to the Office of Youth and Student Activities.
Youth Pioneers Needed[edit]
Interested in pioneering? Why not consider the following eleven states where the least number of Bahá’ís reside?
| Rhode Island | Utah |
| South Dakota | Idaho |
| Wyoming | Kentucky |
| Delaware | Montana |
| Vermont | Nebraska |
| North Dakota |
High school seniors looking for colleges to attend, or areas in which to find employment, might give serious thought to these areas. Don’t be afraid of going into unknown territory. If you pray about it, Bahá’u’lláh will enable you to know exactly what you should do. We know, as Bahá’ís, that when we put the Cause of God first in our lives, then everything else seems to fall into place. If interested in these areas, or any other area in the homefront, please call or write the National Teaching Committee, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091. Telephone number (312) 256-4400.
Attention Young Adults 21-25![edit]
- ARE YOU ACTIVELY ENGAGED IN ORGANIZING YOUTH ACTIVITIES?
- CAN YOU SPEAK SPANISH?
- ARE YOU INTERESTED IN PIONEERING TO LATIN AMERICA?
If you fill ALL of the above qualifications, please write to:
- INTERNATIONAL GOALS COMMITTEE
- 112 Linden Avenue
- Wilmette, IL 60091
If you fill ALL of the above qualifications and are a Secretary by profession, please write to:
- INTERNATIONAL GOALS COMMITTEE
- 112 Linden Avenue
- Wilmette, IL 60091
New Book by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Tells Stories of 79 Early Believers[edit]
MEMORIALS OF THE FAITHFUL[edit]
A compendium of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s remembrances of seventy-nine early believers, most of whom followed Bahá’u’lláh into exile and prison. They were spoken by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá during the latter half of 1915 and are now translated into English for the first time by Marzieh Gail.
These remembrances of faithfulness “constitute a manual of how to live, and how to die.... And if, to the cynical, these believers seem better than ordinary men, we should remember that the presence of the Manifestation made them so, and that they are being looked at through the eyes of the Master ....”
The short biographies record not the outward details of individual lives but the spiritual qualities of faithfulness which earn their own reward and constitute themselves their own memorials.
This book has been artistically designed in a two-piece binding of fern green and ivory cloth, stamped in gold, with an attractive jacket. A calligraphic design in the form of a bird of paradise appears on the half-title page, the book, and the jacket. It is by the well-known Bahá’í calligraphist, Mishkín-Qalam whose life is extolled in this book.
Hand of the Cause of God Zikr’u’lláh Khádem has written concerning it:
“It is a beautiful art form...of the words Bismi’lláhi’l-Bahíyyi’l-Abhá (in the name of the Glory, the Most Glorious), encompassing the thought of the bird of paradise in the form of the Greatest Holy Name sitting on the tree of Toubá (i.e., name of a tree of paradise, meaning blessedness or excellent).... This art form can be found in many Bahá’í houses in Persia, framed and hung in a place of honor.”
This book contains a frontispiece portrait of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.
Selections From ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Talks[edit]
A-2 FOUNDATIONS OF WORLD UNITY
A selection of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s public addresses and letters on the theme of the spiritual foundations of world unity. Introduction by Horace Holley.
Paper.....................$1.00
A-4 SOME ANSWERED QUESTIONS
‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s explanations of a wide variety of spiritual and philosophic questions, including the station and influence of the Prophets, the nature of man, and certain Biblical subjects. Collected and translated by Laura Clifford Barney.
X-9 PARIS TALKS
Addresses given by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in Paris during 1911-1912. Clear, short chapters about the Bahá’í teachings and fundamental questions of life. Edited by Lady Blomfield.
Paper.....................$2.25
A-1 CHRIST’S PROMISE FULFILLED
‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s extemporaneous discussions of the Bahá’í position on some Christian subjects. Selections taken from Some Answered Questions.
Writings of the Master[edit]
A-5 TABLETS OF THE DIVINE PLAN
Tablets from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá written in 1916-1917 to the American Bahá’ís and called by Shoghi Effendi the Charter of the Divine Plan. They are essential not only for understanding the teaching plans initiated by the Guardian and The Universal House of Justice but also for gaining insights into the charter provided by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá for teaching the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh throughout His dispensation.
A-3 THE SECRET OF DIVINE CIVILIZATION
Written as an appeal to the people and rulers of Persia in the late nineteenth century to apply the principles which underlie a true and enduring civilization. The Western reader will find in it the spiritual sociology needed today in the struggle to attain world peace. It is ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s elaboration of the principles enunciated by Bahá’u’lláh in His Tablets to the rulers of the earth.
T-14 WILL AND TESTAMENT OF ‘ABDU’L-BAHÁ
The Charter which delineates the major features of the administrative institutions of the Bahá’í Faith.
The provisions of the Will protect the integrity and unity of the Faith.
Especially for Youth[edit]
C-6 A NEW WAY OF LIFE: WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A BAHÁ’Í YOUTH
Selections from the Central Figures of the Faith. Topics included are: Prayer; Standards for a New Race; Education for the New Day; Teaching the Cause of God; Building a New World. Contains excerpts from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and letters from Rúḥíyyih Khánum.
20 copies...............$5.00
SPECIAL DEEPENING PORTFOLIOS:
G-16 A NEW WORLD ORDER
Contains excerpts on Bahá’í living.
20 copies.............$15.00
G-17 A NEW RACE OF MEN
Contains episodes from the life of the Master.
20 copies.............$10.00
[Page 11]
‘Abdu’l-Bahá in Chicago: Just one scene from the new filmstrip program.
‘Glimpses of Perfection’ is Ready[edit]
35-P-3908 ‘ABDU’L-BAHÁ: GLIMPSES OF PERFECTION
A new filmstrip program, consisting primarily of pictures taken of the Master during his visit to America. It recounts many of the often humorous and always inspiring encounters ‘Abdu’l-Bahá had with some of the earliest Bahá’ís in the West. The underlying theme stresses the importance of His visit to America.
80-frame filmstrip with recorded cassette narration (includes also printed narrative).........$7.50
From the Books of the Guardian:[edit]
S-5 GOD PASSES BY
Includes a section on the Ministry of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1892-1921. Explains the role of the Center of the Covenant and recounts His part in the establishment of the Faith in the West; His success in laying to rest the remains of the Báb on Mt. Carmel; His historic journeys to Europe and America; and finally His passing after His great work was ended.
Paper..................$1.75
S-9 THE WORLD ORDER OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH
The chapter on the Master is Shoghi Effendi’s clarification of “the station occupied by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and the significance of His position in this holy Dispensation.”
Paper..................$1.50
S-4 THE DISPENSATION OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH
The station and mission of the Báb, Bahá’u’lláh, and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and the principal elements of the Bahá’í Administrative Order clarified by Shoghi Effendi. Excerpted from The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh.
Administrative Topics[edit]
X-5 THE COVENANT OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH
Compilation from Jewish, Christian, Islamic, and Bahá’í Writings on God’s eternal covenant. Includes excerpts from Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.
G-3 COVENANT AND ADMINISTRATION
Compilation arranged for reference and group study. Contains many excerpts from Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.
T-7 THE LOCAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY
A compilation by The Universal House of Justice from Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, and Shoghi Effendi.
25 copies...............$5.00
Some Other Titles of Interest[edit]
Many other books contain excerpts from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, personal recollections and portraits, and chapters on various facets of the Master’s life. Particular attention is drawn to the following books:
| C-8 | BAHA’Í HOLY PLACES AT THE WORLD CENTER |
| Cloth....................$2.00 | |
| C-7 | THE REALITY OF MAN |
| Cloth....................$1.00 | |
| M-5 | THE CHOSEN HIGHWAY |
| Cloth....................$2.90 | |
| Paper....................$1.70 | |
| M-16 | PORTALS TO FREEDOM |
| Cloth....................$3.00 | |
| Paper....................$2.00 | |
| M-23 | THE SHELTERING BRANCH |
| Cloth....................$1.75 | |
| M-26 | EDWARD GRANVILLE BROWNE AND THE BAHÁ’Í FAITH |
| Cloth....................$4.50 | |
| M-17 | PRESCRIPTION FOR LIVING |
| Cloth....................$3.00 | |
| Paper....................$ .75 | |
| M-18 | THE PROMISE OF ALL AGES |
| Cloth....................$2.50 | |
| Paper....................$ .50 |
50-S-3620 ‘ABDU’L-BAHÁ PHOTO PRINT
A reprint of a popular photograph of the Master taken in Chicago in 1912. Size 4x6½ inches, centered on 6¼x9¼ white paper. $.30 each; 10 for $1; 25 for $2; 100 for $5. This is the same photo that appears in the 1970 edition of Some Answered Questions.
| BAHÁ’Í PUBLISHING TRUST |
| 415 LINDEN AVENUE VILMETTE, ILLINOIS 60091 |
Order through your community librarian whenever possible. Personal orders must include payment. Minimum book order is $5, plus $.30 service charge. Minimum Special Materials order is $3, with a 10% service charge on all orders.
Pioneer Opportunities[edit]
The Foreign Service needs stenographers to serve at Embassies around the world.
Age Requirement: 21-50 (preferably single).
Must have had at least 2 years’ employment using stenographic skills.
Pay Scale: 2 years’ experience - $6,202/year plus foreign allowance*.
4 years’ experience - $6,915/year plus foreign allowance*.
*Housing and transportation.
Processing of applications takes approximately 6 months to 1 year. This includes a check into one’s background for security reasons.
After receiving clearance, names are put on a waiting list for the first suitable opening. Choice of location is not given at first.
After 10 years of foreign service, one is entitled to retirement pay.
Write to:
- U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
- WASHINGTON, D.C. 20520
ARE YOU WORKING FOR A WORLDWIDE ORGANIZATION OR A COMPANY HAVING INTERNATIONAL SUBSIDIES?
If you are, you may have the perfect opportunity to arise for the Faith and receive the added bounty of retaining your position.
Investigate the possibilities of field positions in other countries through your Company.
MOST IMPORTANT OF ALL - If you cannot satisfy the requirements necessary to fill an overseas position, please let the International Goals Committee know of the employment opportunities available. We receive résumés of believers with engineering degrees and other professional qualifications who may be well suited to fill an opening within your organization. We are located at 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091.
WORLD ORDER Magazine[edit]
The Fall 1971 issue, scheduled to appear in October, will be devoted entirely to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in commemoration of the Fiftieth Anniversary of His Passing.
There will be articles by such authors as Hand of the Cause of God H. M. Balyuzi, Amin Banani, Marzieh Gail, Kazem and Firuz Kazemzadeh... and a republication of the article “The Passing of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá” by Shoghi Effendi and Lady Blomfield, which was published in 1926 in the BAHÁ’Í YEARBOOK but is not now generally available to the community.
Order your subscription now so as to get this special issue, which will be sold at a higher price, $2 per single copy, than regular issues sold at $1.25 per copy. Subscribers will, however, get their copies as part of their regular subscriptions.
NOTE: Single copies of the special issue will be available through your local librarian at $2 each.
The American Bahá’í
112 LINDEN AVENUE, WILMETTE, ILLINOIS 60091
OCTOBER 1971
In This Issue
Suggested Program: 50th Anniversary of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Passing
Open Letter from Hand of the Cause Mr. William Sears
Available Materials By and About ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
International Summer Youth Project
College Campus Campaign and Youth Fund Goal
|
Be Sure To Attend Your State Convention Dates and locations listed on pages 4 and 5 |