The American Bahá’í/Volume 2/Issue 6/Text
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CARIBBEAN CONFERENCE RESOUNDING SUCCESS![edit]
“WHAT SHALL WE NOT WITNESS ERE LONG IN THESE PLACES SO CHARGED WITH DESTINY THROUGH THE MASTER’S UTTERANCES....”
Well over 600 Bahá’ís from all parts of the United States, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands, responded to the request initiated by The Universal House of Justice that as many of the American believers as possible attend this historic Conference. In addition, over 500 believers attended representing almost every country in South and Central America and the islands of the Caribbean, including many of the new believers from Jamaica itself. Visitors were also present from Canada, Africa, and Europe.
This was one of eight Continental and Oceanic Conferences called by our Supreme Universal House of Justice at Riḍván 1969 to be held between August 1970 and September 1971, the purpose being to stimulate and aid the proclamation of the Faith as well as the promotion of all the goals of the Nine Year Plan.
The first two Conferences were held simultaneously last August in Rose Hill, Mauritius; and La Paz, Bolivia; and the second two in January 1971 in Monrovia, Liberia; and Singapore in the South China Seas. Full reports of each of these historic events have appeared in BAHÁ’Í NEWS, in which detailed reports of the Caribbean Conference held in Kingston, Jamaica; and the South Pacific Oceanic Conference held at the same time in Suva, Fiji, will also appear.
What follows is a picture story of the Caribbean Conference and the Floating Institute aboard the S/S New Bahama Star which carried the 600 believers from the United States, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.
We are prayerfully hopeful that the many friends who were unable to attend this Conference will be so inspired by this exciting picture story that they will not hesitate to arise and support the remaining two of these most important Conferences to be held simultaneously, September 3-5, 1971, in Sapporo, Japan; and Reykjavik, Iceland. (See separate announcement regarding special tours being offered on page 11.)
Our prayers join those of The Universal House of Justice that souls, “armed with the love of God and imbued with His purpose for a struggling mankind, will arise to activate, beyond all present hope, the vast spiritual potentialities of the Americas.”
Friends, the need is great for pioneers and traveling teachers throughout all these regions. For information on pioneer goals, please write or call:
- International Goals Committee
- 112 Linden Avenue
- Wilmette, Illinois 60091
- Telephone No. (312) 256-4400
For information on travel-teaching, please write or call:
- Continental Pioneer Committee for the Americas
- Mrs. Nancy Allison, Secretary
- 428 W. Hellen
- Palatine, Illinois 60067
- Telephone No. (312) 359-2274
Some 90 valiant souls at the Conference were inspired to volunteer as pioneers and travel-teachers in response to the call of The Universal House of Justice.
“The time is short...no effort can be foregone, no opportunity wasted.”
Story On Floating Institute Begins Page 6
THE CONFERENCE ...[edit]
MESSAGE FROM THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE TO THE FRIENDS OF GOD GATHERED IN THE CARIBBEAN CONFERENCE.
How propitious that on its mountain-top between the two greatest oceans and the two American continents the Mother Temple of Latin America is rising now in Panama, a land blessed by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s prophecy that “in the future it will gain great importance.” How splendid that the vision projected in the Divine Plan for the Americas has sprung into such vibrant life in this Caribbean basin, in country after country upon its verdant shores, in island after island across its expanse, all named by the Master in His Tablets. What shall we not witness ere long in these places so charged with destiny through the Master’s utterances!
The Nine Year Plan, the current stage in the unfoldment of the Divine Plan of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, is approaching its triumphant end. This conference is an occasion to sum up what has been won, to determine to achieve the remaining goals for expansion in these blessed lands, and to consolidate the old and new communities of the Most Great Name. Indeed, the winning of our grand Bahá’í objectives began just yesterday when, in the early years of the Formative Age, a few travelers crossed the Caribbean. Yet it was not until the successive Plans of the beloved Guardian, culminating in the Ten Year Crusade, when 27 Knights of Bahá’u’lláh settled throughout this vast area, that the Cause took firm root. By 1963 the countries and islands of the Caribbean claimed less than 400 localities and only 147 Local Spiritual Assemblies. Now Bahá’ís are to be found in over 2500 localities, more than 500 Local Assemblies and 16 National Spiritual Assemblies have been formed, and there have been hundreds of concrete achievements which have brought about our recognition as an independent Faith.
The Americas have been a melting pot and a meeting place for the races of men, and the need is acute for the fulfillment of God’s promises of the realization of the oneness of mankind. Particularly do the Master and the Guardian point to the Afro-Americans and the Amerindians, two great ethnic groups whose spiritual powers will be released through their response to the Creative Word.
But our Teachings must touch all, must include all peoples. And, in this hour of your tireless activity, what special rewards shall come to those who will arise, summoned by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Words: “Now is the time to divest yourselves of 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.”
The time is short, the needs many. No effort can be foregone, no opportunity wasted. Praised be God that you have gathered in this Conference to consult upon the vital requirements of this highly significant moment. Our prayers ascend at the Holy Threshold that every session of this historic meeting will attract Divine Blessings, and that each soul, armed with the love of God and imbued with His purpose for a struggling mankind, will arise to activate, beyond all present hope, the vast spiritual potentialities of the Americas.
To each of you we send our deepest love.
Hand of the Cause of God, Mr. John Robarts, from Canada, and Dr. Daniel C. Jordan, Vice-Chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States, chat with honored guest speaker, His Excellency Sir Clifford Campbell, G.C.V.O., G.C.M.G., Governor-General of Jamaica, whilst patiently awaiting the unforeseen late arrival of the contingent of believers from the S/S New Bahama Star.
His Excellency Sir Clifford Campbell addressing an audience of some 1200 Bahá’ís, including Hands of the Cause, Continental Board of Counsellor Members, Auxiliary Board Members, and representatives of several National Spiritual Assemblies from North, Central, and South America, and the islands of the Caribbean; visitors from Canada, Europe, and Africa; many native Jamaicans, and indigenous peoples of South and Central America, as well as two Apache Indians from the San Carlos Reservation in Arizona, United States.
His Excellency’s talk dealt mainly with the need for the peoples to come together in peace and brotherhood, and was most complimentary to the Bahá’ís and their beloved Cause.
(continued on page 3)
These pictures give a glimpse of the beautiful flowers from God’s garden gathered in love, unity, and fellowship at the Conference.
[Page 3]
At the official reception held later, Mr. Glenford E. Mitchell, secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States, and His Worship Eli Matalon, Mayor of Kingston, exchange friendship scrolls. Before leaving Miami, a dockside ceremony took place, at which three friendship scrolls were entrusted to Mr. Mitchell by the Mayor of Miami, The Honorable David T. Kennedy, for safe delivery to the Mayor of Mayaguez, Puerto Rico; the Mayor of Kingston, Jamaica; and the Governor of the Virgin Islands. In reciprocation, each presented similar scrolls to Mr. Mitchell for delivery to Mayor Kennedy.
Mr. Mitchell presents the book, THE PROCLAMATION OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH, to the Mayor of Kingston. Enroute from Miami to Kingston and back, similar presentations were made in Mayaguez, St. Thomas, and Miami, where the book was also presented to the Consul of Jamaica through an attaché to his office.
His Excellency Sir Clifford Campbell is seen chatting at the reception with Hand of the Cause Mr. Zikr’u’lláh Khádem, who represented The Universal House of Justice at the Caribbean Conference, and Hand of the Cause Robarts. His Excellency enjoyed himself so much, he was one of the last to leave.
All of the talks at the Conference were most enlightening and well presented. Especially moving was Hand of the Cause John Robarts’ talk on “Pioneering,” after which many pioneers to, and native pioneers from, Central and South America and the islands of the Caribbean were presented. Mr. Mitchell gave a stirring talk on “Reaching and Teaching People of African Descent,” in which he appealed to his black brothers to join their white brothers in carrying the Bahá’í message of love and universal peace to the rest of mankind. He said it was the black man’s destiny from the beginning, for example, to take the light back to Africa. Mr. Phillippe Bastien, Chairman of the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Haiti, speaking on the same subject in French, was most moving and appealing in his presentation, and complimented Mr. Mitchell’s talk beautifully.
Talks in English were fluently translated into Spanish by Mr. Kenneth Kalantar, pioneer to Puerto Rico, and talks in French into English by Mrs. Ruth Blackwell, pioneer to Haiti.
Prayers were recited and chanted in many different languages throughout the Conference and other programs. Mr. Barney Biaz invoked the Greatest Name nine times before reciting his prayer.
Telephone hook-up between the Caribbean Conference and the one being held simultaneously in Fiji. Colonel Salvatore Pelle, Public Information Officer at the National Bahá’í Center in the United States, is standing between Hands of the Cause Khádem and Robarts.
During the afternoon of the Public Meeting at the National Arena in Kingston, teams of teachers, including Jamaican believers, went out to meet the people and invite them personally to “Sounds of a New World,” a musical presentation on the Bahá’í Faith featuring Dizzy Gillespie, Geraldine Jones, Seals and Crofts, Linda Marshall, and the Deep South Road Singers.
Many of those invited became Bahá’ís that afternoon and came to the evening program as well as the Conference next day. It was estimated that almost 2000 guests were present at the National Arena plus 1000 Bahá’ís. The Conference and the public meeting had been well publicized throughout the island via the news media and the display of thousands of attractive posters. With such a group of entertainers, the show couldn’t help but be a tremendous success. This gathering attracted over 150 new believers to the Cause, many of whom also attended the sessions the next day. Toward the close of the Conference, Hand of the Cause Mr. Khádem, surrounded by the dozens of new believers, expressed a loving welcome to each one personally.
Two of our new brothers then sang a couple of Bahá’í songs which they had just composed. Accompanied by guitar, and singing with a delightful Jamaican accent, they moved many of us to tears.
There is no need to relate how difficult it is to tear oneself away from such a gathering. We know all of you have experienced it before wherever Bahá’ís have gathered in such love and unity. One is always cheered, however, by the knowledge that separation is only physical, and that spiritually we are always together, bound by that indissoluble bond, our love of God, and working together in building the Kingdom of God on earth.
Some of the new believers in Jamaica.
UNIPAR[edit]
Hello! It’s so good to be able to visit with you every month and tell you the adventures of Unipar. Every time I sit down to write a story, lots of ideas come into my mind. It’s hard for me to decide what adventure to tell you about next!
Since I appear on the agenda every time our Assembly meets, I thought you would be interested in knowing how Unipar—the gifts of money from all the Bahá’ís in the United States to the National Bahá’í Fund—assists these meetings.
The National Spiritual Assembly meets 10 to 12 times each year, usually in the Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds in Wilmette. In between regular meetings, our friends the 8-cent stamp and the telephone are the Assembly’s means of communication. In addition, each member of the National Spiritual Assembly is sent copies of letters from The Universal House of Justice, copies of much correspondence—especially that which goes to Local Spiritual Assemblies—and copies of information—perhaps research, reports, or statistics—which will enable them to be well-prepared when they meet together for consultation.
We make the plane reservations at a local travel agency for the Assembly members coming to Wilmette for these meetings. A round-trip plane ticket from New York, for example, costs $175. Unipar pays the travel agency each month for these trips.
The Assembly members must have a place to stay and food while they meet. I’ve noticed the members often continue their consultation while they are eating, and they usually meet until late at night because there are so many items on the agenda.
Regarding housing, some of the members stay at the Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds, others at hotels or at the homes of Bahá’ís. For meals, a Bahá’í lady plans the menus and purchases all the food on behalf of Unipar. A non-Bahá’í lady is paid $3 an hour to assist in preparing and serving the meals. Sometimes other Bahá’í friends give loving service to the Faith by helping with the meals.
Making the contacts and arrangements necessary for National Spiritual Assembly meetings have made some good friends for the Faith: the people at the travel agency, the lady who prepares the meals, and cab drivers who pick up members of the National Spiritual Assembly at the airport.
Unipar—you and I—can always be very proud and happy that we have helped make arrangements for the National Spiritual Assembly meetings. The Assembly has so many concerns, worries, and responsibilities. Shoghi Effendi said, “It would be impossible at this stage to ignore the indispensability or to overestimate the unique significance of the institution of the National Spiritual Assembly—the pivot round which revolve the activities of the believers throughout the American continent. Supreme is their position, grave their responsibilities, manifold and arduous their duties....” (Bahá’í Administration, p. 87.)
The Universal House of Justice and the National Spiritual Assembly have such confidence in the Bahá’ís regarding their understanding of universal participation in contributing to the National Bahá’í Fund. Wouldn’t it be wonderful and a real sign of spiritual growth if, on the National Spiritual Assembly’s next agenda, were the words:
National Bahá’í Fund - Unipar - 100%?
Until next month!
Unipar
A True Freedom[edit]
I urge every reader who loves God and desires Peace, the Unity of Mankind, and the establishment of the Beloved Community to investigate the Bahá’í Faith.
I have, after futile searchings elsewhere, at last heard this new message. I became a Bahá’í on April 18. At present, I am acting to bring my life closer to the standard raised by Bahá’u’lláh, by resolving some personal struggles that are obstacles to my wholehearted participation in the spiritual awakening of Mankind.
This is why I am today surrendering to the U.S. government in Chicago after being a fugitive for nearly two years. The imprisonment I face is obviously a unique opportunity for me to deepen spiritually and to develop my talents in writing and teaching so that I can better serve as an agent in Bahá’u’lláh’s plan when I am “released.” What a bounty!
After surrendering, John Phillips was put in Cook County Jail, Chicago, to await trial as one of the Chicago 15, the group which destroyed draft records on Chicago’s south side, May 25, 1969. He was one of a total of seven of the Chicago 15 who went underground. Four disappeared after the original arrest and bail release; and three left during the trial, which took place in June of last year.
John is the second of the seven to be apprehended by the authorities, both turning themselves in. The first was Charlie Muse, surrendering on December 17, 1970. He received ten years, in contrast to the five-year sentences given to the other defendants in the original trial. (For stories of the Chicago 15 action, see The Peacemaker of June 7, 1969, and June 28, 1969. For an account of Muse, see the issue of Feb. 27, 1971.)
John and Charlie, both from New England, had done time previously for draft refusal. After coming out of prison, John had begun a “Prisoners’ Information and Support Service,” with a Boston address; and he had enabled a branch under the same name to be established on the west coast. Newsletters of this group were informative and helpful to the movement of resistance.
While underground, John kept contact with many friends who realized that he was in this country and not in complete hiding. The Peacemaker of March 20, 1971, carried an article by John in which he spoke of himself as “a participant who will one day undoubtedly be forced to submit to a lengthy period of incarceration.” He also sent “loving greetings to friends I have for now been forced to leave behind.”
This article appeared in “The Peacemaker” magazine on May 22, 1971.
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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 of its intended 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. |
Dan Ware and Gina Tuttle of the Washington State University Bahá’í Club presenting the books “Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era” and “Foundations of World Unity” to Ann Wierum, reference librarian of the school’s Holland Library, in behalf of the Bahá’ís of Eastern Washington.
summer teaching[edit]
Would you be interested in having 30,000 people from all over the world, every race, class, and religion, come and ask you about the Bahá’í Faith?
If so, come join us and teach at the House of Worship this summer!
30,000 visitors a month was the average from May-August last year.
We need welcomers, people to take care of literature sales, people who can teach small groups (10-40), people who can teach large groups (40-400), and those who can teach best on a one-to-one basis.
Desire to learn and serve, flexibility, and the ability to handle emergency situations calmly and in accordance with instructions are required.
The Visitors Education Committee will sponsor training classes for those who can come for a weekend, a week, a month, or more.
In teaching a cross-section of humanity, you will be asked every kind of question, and will participate in a variety of teaching situations.
Traveling expenses and housing will have to be arranged by you.
Suggested housing:
| YMCA - men | YWCA - women |
| 1000 Grove St. | 1213 Grove St. |
| Evanston, Ill. | Evanston, Ill. |
| $5.10/night | $4.20/night |
(weekly and monthly rates available)
We can also provide more information on hotels, if requested.
WRITE: Bahá’í House of Worship, Activities Office, 112 Linden Ave., Wilmette, Ill. 60091.
“Regarding the guide work at the Temple; the Guardian attaches the highest importance to it, inasmuch as it affords a splendid opportunity for presenting the Message on a very large scale. The responsibilities which this function calls for are as vital and far-reaching as the privileges it confers on the individual believer.
The Bahá’í guide has indeed a very sacred obligation to discharge. Not only has he to perfect his knowledge of the Cause, but also to develop all those qualities of tact, wisdom, and of ability to present the Message which every Bahá’í teacher requires...”
(Letter of the Guardian to Mr. H. Dahl.)
FLOATING INSTITUTE[edit]
PROCLAMATION IN MIAMI[edit]
Four hundred Bahá’ís attended the Unity Feast held in “The Assembly Room” at the Dupont Plaza Hotel in Miami on the eve of the departure of the S/S New Bahama Star, which would carry, after a stop in Mayaguez, 600 believers from the United States, Puerto Rico, and the Leeward, Windward, and Virgin Islands to the Caribbean Conference in Kingston, Jamaica.
Greeting the friends were Auxiliary Board Members Mrs. Opal Conner and Mrs. Margaret Gallagher, and members of the Deep South Road Show. During the Feast, the Broward County Bahá’í Youth gave an impressive candlelight recitation of some of THE HIDDEN WORDS OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH. These talented youth also sang “Blessed Is The Spot” accompanied by a beautiful slide presentation of scenes depicting an example of each spot mentioned in the prayer.
Next morning, dockside ceremonies were held at which the Mayor of Miami, The Honorable David T. Kennedy, entrusted three friendship scrolls to Mr. Glenford E. Mitchell, Secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States, for delivery to The Honorable Benjamin Cole, Mayor of Mayaguez, Puerto Rico; His Worship Eli Matalon, Mayor of Kingston, Jamaica; and The Honorable Melvin H. Evans, Governor of the Virgin Islands. Mr. Ben Levy, on behalf of the Bahá’ís of Miami, presented the Mayor with the PROCLAMATION OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH, and a similar presentation was made to the Jamaica Consul, The Honorable Oscar H. Grant, through an attaché of his office since he himself was unable to be there.
The soul-stirring music and singing of the Deep South Road Show group added greatly to the occasion. They radiate such love and warmth.
After a prayer was said for the safety of the ship, its passengers, and crew, the Mayor expressed how much the Bahá’ís had impressed him and asked that his secretary be notified of the Proclamation Meeting to be held at the Dupont Plaza upon the ship’s return, at which time he would receive scrolls sent by the various Caribbean dignitaries in reciprocation of those sent by him.
After a heartwarming send-off, and the hustle and bustle of getting settled quickly into a new and totally different environment that would be their home for 11 days, the Bahá’ís got acquainted over a royal dinner, in most cases with friends they had never met before.
Later on the same evening, there was an Orientation to the Institute. The schedule for each day began with Dawn Prayers, then breakfast, followed by Devotions/Review of Day’s Activities/Songs, morning deepening sessions (with children’s classes running concurrently); lunch, elective classes, then a recreation period until dinner; during the afternoon and evening each day, specially selected movies were shown in the ship’s cinema; after dinner, elective classes, then a special talk, followed by entertainment, a late buffet (fit for a king!), and midnight devotions.
We’ll let the pictures and some of the participants tell it from here!
“Following a few minor discomforts before boarding the S/S New Bahama Star, a fleeting thought crossed my mind that because Bahá’u’lláh, His family, and a small band of His followers had been exiled and had boarded another ship so long ago under the most adverse circumstances, it was now possible for some 600 of His followers in this day to travel by ship in luxury and ease in praise of God and to promote His Cause. The eleven days and nights of the Caribbean Floating Institute, including the Conference, were so full of opportunity for deepening and teaching, and the spirit was so high, we were indeed in another world.”
“To have been included in the passenger list of the S/S New Bahama Star was a privilege, but to be able to attend the classes on board was a special bounty. To try to relate the deepening classes so ably presented by Mr. Glenford Mitchell, Dr. Daniel Jordan, and Dr. Dwight Allen is impossible. These sessions held in the mornings were too short, as expressed by many on board, although the luncheon time which ended the morning was most welcome.
“The elective classes were also interesting, and we were grateful to be allowed to attend those of special choice.
“The evening lectures were inspirational and enjoyable. Many regretted the necessity to sleep, but it was essential to be ready for the next day, which was always eagerly anticipated.”
In between classes, etc., there was time for relaxation, too!
Throughout the entire trip, Kiva Films, Inc., was busy filming and taping in preparation for a new Bahá’í film.
“As the ship moved slowly toward the dock in Mayaguez, the voices of the friends aboard singing “Alláh-u-Abhá” came across the water carrying a spirit that made a deep impression on my heart, as it must have for the rest of the friends waiting with me. Though it had been only a few short days since I had been with some of the friends already aboard, it was a glorious reunion as I joined them for this historic voyage, which would provide teaching and consolidation opportunities to benefit the entire Bahá’í world.”
[Page 7]
The Honorable Benjamin Cole, Mayor of Mayaguez, his beautiful wife, members of his staff, family, and friends being welcomed aboard. What followed was a most memorable occasion, and the Bahá’ís, we feel sure, will always remember the Mayor and his party with affection. They were all so warm and friendly, and were delighted that a passenger ship had stopped there at long last, giving them the opportunity to visit. According to Mayor Cole, the last passenger ship that stopped in Mayaguez was one carrying President Roosevelt in 1933.
Great excitement as the Bahá’ís on board ship and the Bahá’ís gathered at the Unity Feast in Kingston are joined together via ship-to-shore telephone communication when prayers for the success of the Conference were shared.
More excitement! Mrs. Natalie DiBuono holds the tape recorder and Mrs. Eileen Norman the microphone, and all the friends listen to a special message from Hand of the Cause Mr. William Sears, who was unable to participate in the Institute, because of a special assignment in Switzerland.
Welcome to Jamaica and the Caribbean Conference (see pages 1 through 3).
Homeward bound, we stopped in St. Thomas where all our friends who boarded in Mayaguez en route to Jamaica disembarked, many having to leave immediately for their homes in Puerto Rico and other nearby islands.
Mr. Mitchell and The Honorable Melvin H. Evans, Governor of the Virgin Islands exchange scrolls; and Mr.
Enrick DuPorte, a Bahá’í youth from St. Thomas who attended the Conference, presents THE PROCLAMATION OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH.
During the afternoon, teams of teachers went out to invite people to a public meeting on board ship that evening, when 110 new believers entered the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh.
Some of the new believers on the S/S New Bahama Star with Auxiliary Board Member Mrs. Opal Conner.
At the Proclamation meeting in Miami on the evening of our arrival, Mr. Mitchell presented to Mayor Kennedy the three scrolls from Kingston, Mayaguez, and St. Thomas. He referred to Mr. Mitchell as being the best goodwill ambassador he ever had. Upon accepting a copy of GLEANINGS from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, he mentioned having read part of the THE PROCLAMATION OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH, saying that it was a very deep book.
A SHIP’S DESTINY[edit]
Once built by the Germans for Israel as part of the reparations after World War II, and named the S/S Jerusalem, this ship must have been destined from the moment of its conception to carry the Bahá’ís across the Caribbean seas to the historic Conference in Jamaica. The ship was renamed the S/S New Bahama Star after being sold by the Israeli Government to its present American owners. It is interesting to know, too, that the same ship once carried one of our passengers as a young Jew from America to Israel where he found the answer to his search—Bahá’u’lláh, the Promised One of all ages. His name is Mr. Mark Sadan, President of Kiva Films, Inc., the company which produced the film “It’s Just the Beginning,” made at the National Bahá’í Youth Conference in June 1970, and he was part of a group filming both on board ship and at the Conference in Jamaica.
How do you describe what happens to a shipload of people whom God brings together from all different countries and backgrounds to mold into ‘one soul in one body’? In order for this to be done, much had to be learned. There was the experience of learning to live closely with hundreds of Bahá’ís of all ages, shapes, colors, and personalities, in a limited amount of space over a concentrated period of 11 days. We learned the true meaning of tolerance, patience, courtesy, kindness, respect, reverence, and joy. By the time we reached Jamaica, and more so by the time we returned home, we had begun to feel what the true meaning of ONENESS is, and wanted to share this with everyone else in the world!
We learned that to be effective teachers, His messengers must be immersed and surrounded by His Words and live the Bahá’í life. With this realization, the classes held on the ship were filled with students soaking in the Divine Teachings. Between classes, groups seemed to be drawn together to exchange ideas and share teaching experiences.
The spirit generated aboard ship as a result of our common bond of love for God and mankind, the prayers, the emotion and excitement produced through the lectures and classes, the warmth, the joy, the tears, the laughter, began to make its impact on the ship’s crew and staff. More used to passengers from the white, upper-middle to upper-upper brackets, including occasionally a few children, they were deluged by a group of all colors and economic backgrounds, many of whom were surrounded by their children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren. Later, some of our new friends among the crew shared the following thoughts and feelings with us:
‘We had heard that you didn’t drink, and we thought what a boring trip it would be, all those people inside singing hymns... And then you got on the ship... You people really enjoy yourselves. Everybody else just talks about it.’
‘You brought all your children! It made me miss my family, but then I feel like you are my family. I don’t know how I will stand it when you leave.’
‘We saw you and we knew you were telling the truth. It’s how God wants it to be.’
If there were ever any doubts in our minds that this person was not ready or that group of people was not ready, these doubts are gone forever. All of mankind is ready for God’s healing Message, and ours is the duty to give everyone the chance to accept it by taking it to them without delay.
Love, Unity, Fellowship[edit]
The Spiritual Assembly of Jackson, Mississippi, hosted a statewide Unity gathering on May 9. Such occasions provide opportunities for the believers to become better acquainted with each other on a more informal and intimate basis. The goal is for the Bahá’ís to radiate such love and unity that the waiting masses will become attracted to the Faith.
The Master urged the friends to “Fellowship, fellowship! Love, love! Unity, unity!—So that the power of the Bahá’í Cause may appear and become manifest in the world of existence.”
Occupied with the Greatest Undertaking[edit]
During this era of mass teaching, it would be well for those who travel-teach to ponder and reflect upon the qualifications specified by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in the TABLETS OF THE DIVINE PLAN.
“The teachers of the Cause must be heavenly, lordly and radiant. They must be embodied spirit, personified intellect, and arise in service with the utmost firmness, steadfastness and self-sacrifice...”
“...with luminous hearts, with heavenly spirit, with attraction of consciousness, with celestial magnanimity, with eloquent tongues and with clear explanations...”
“...suffer your intention to become for the good of all; cut your attachment to the earth and like unto the essence of the spirit become ye light and delicate. Then with a firm resolution, a pure heart, a rejoiced spirit, and an eloquent tongue, engage your time in the promulgation of the divine principles so that the oneness of the world of humanity may pitch her canopy in the apex of America and all the nations of the world follow the divine policy....”
As one reflects upon the above quotes and numerous others, it becomes increasingly clear that those who arise to teach the Cause must, in the words of Shoghi Effendi, “having attained sufficiently the individual regeneration...the essential requisite of teaching...arise to teach His Cause with righteousness, conviction, understanding and vigor.” Again he admonishes, “Not until we live ourselves the life of a true Bahá’í can we hope to demonstrate the creative and transforming potency of the Faith we profess.”
Should we not make the necessary efforts to “shape up” according to the Sacred Texts and with haste bring the multitudes under the banner of the Blessed Beauty?
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Greenville, Texas Mass Teaching Conference
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DEEPER THRUST OF THE SPIRITUAL ROOTS[edit]
“Every outward thrust into new fields, every multiplication of Bahá’í institutions must be paralleled by a deeper thrust of the spiritual roots which sustain the spiritual life of the community and ensure its sound development.” (Shoghi Effendi)
Nineteen Bahá’ís entered a small rural summer cabin area in the foothills of southern Arizona on May 29. Nine days later they emerged with beaming faces. “We were in heaven,” said one of the believers. “What do you mean ‘heaven’?” asked one of the visitors on the last evening of the nine-day institute. “Well, as Bahá’ís, we know that heaven is nearness to God, and we’ve experienced it.”
These 19 Bahá’ís from different parts of the United States, of Negro, Indian, Mexican American, and white backgrounds, of all ages and material means, and ranging from brand new to long-time believers, had lived together, shared together, and suffered together, but most of all studied together the Divine Word, with the capable assistance of Auxiliary Board Member, Mr. Jenabe Caldwell, for nine consecutive days. During the daytime, they had studied THE HIDDEN WORDS OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH. No one interpreted THE HIDDEN WORDS for them. They shared their understanding of the Words, and as the days flew by, the proud were brought low and the meek were raised up without any personality intervening. Mr. Jenabe Caldwell states, “I don’t teach the institutes, Bahá’u’lláh does.” All the participants agreed that this was so, as they continued to study and share THE HIDDEN WORDS followed by THE SEVEN VALLEYS. By the end of the nine days, they were studying THE ADVENT OF DIVINE JUSTICE with a zeal which was unbelievable to the Bahá’í visitors who joined in the social activities in the evenings.
During the day, no one but Mr. Caldwell and the 19 Bahá’ís were allowed to attend. All the participants were asked to stay the full nine days. Visitors were allowed to participate in the evening social activities when lots of singing took place.
Following are some of the comments of those who attended the institute:
“Have felt concern for problems of consolidation... feel this is the answer....” (Marion Kadrie, Fargo, North Dakota)
“Nine most happy days of my life. Deeply aware of consolidation needs... the solution lies in these nine-day institutes!” (Eleanor Lombard, Dawson, Georgia)
“Have been given clear-cut vision what action Spanish-Speaking Teaching Committee can take.” (Sylvia Gonzales, Phoenix, Arizona)
“I was truly in the spiritual world. I feel responsible to tell others what I experienced.” (Daniel Defender, Sioux Reservation, Fort Yates, North Dakota)
“Have attended great conferences where unity was present (London ’63, Chicago ’53, Fort Valley ’70) but never really experienced the growth and extension of unity as it developed among these
made two pilgrimages, but this was entry into the Kingdom of God on earth, something every believer and each one who enters the Cause must experience. Entry into the Kingdom of God on earth, this is the initiation....” (Kathleen Javid, White Plains, New York)
“Fantastic! Possibilities of new way of education, new form of deepening. Found I could concentrate as never before.” (Klara Tyler, Makah Reservation, Neah Bay, Washington)
“Truly answer to consolidation... I have prayed personally to find solution.” (Annette Young, Florence, South Carolina)
“Institute gave inspiration, gave sense of direction and strengthening, gave incentive.” (Feels he is really deepened and can be used as a ‘hollow reed’.) (Raphael Herring, Greensboro, North Carolina)
“Institute does away with feeling of being taught at, brings knowledge out of spirit of each person’s inner being... has given me more ability to live in presence of God so that I won’t slip back into old world.” (Audrie Reynolds, Fort Wingate, New Mexico)
“You just can’t describe the development of spiritual unity among the 19.” (John Woodbury, Navajo Reservation, White Cone, Arizona)
“¡Muy bueno¡” (Fernando Pimental, Imperial Valley, California)
EDITOR”S NOTE: The Minority Teaching Office of the National Teaching Committee is coordinating more of this type of institute in mass teaching areas.
HOOPER DUNBAR BRINGS SPECIAL MESSAGE FROM SOUTH AMERICAN INDIANS[edit]
Mr. Hooper Dunbar, a member of the Continental Board of Counsellors for South America, has begun a six-week journey throughout many of the reservation areas in the North Plains and Southwest (Sioux, Crow, Cheyenne, Assiniboine, Chippewa, Blackfoot, Flathead, Nez Perce, Shoshone, Navajo, Apache). The purpose of this visit is to carry a message from the Indian Bahá’ís of South America to their brothers and sisters in the United States.
As related by Mr. Dunbar, the Indian Bahá’ís of South America are praying for the success of his journey. They pray that the Indian Bahá’ís of the United States may become strengthened and multiply their numbers by thousands so that they may arise and fulfill the great destiny promised the Indian people by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Quoting from a letter to Mr. Dunbar sent by an American Indian pioneer in Bolivia: “Our trip to the Island of the Sun was one of those experiences that words can barely describe as what passed on the journey was a prayer far above ‘words and letters’ which transcended ‘the murmur of syllables and sounds.’ How can words adequately describe Melletone on his knees in the dust before the House of the Incas, tears streaming from his eyes, looking into the heavens, with his arms raised to God in prayer, or the joy that surged through our hearts as we ascended the stairs of the Incas... carrying with us the Message that will again return the dignity and hope to not only the Quechuas and Aymaras, but to all of mankind. We sang ‘Alláh’u’Abhá’ from the mountain peaks and in the quiet of the evening, sitting on seats carved out of rock that had once served as the high court of the Incas, we prayed for your journey to our Indian brothers in North America... asking Bahá’u’lláh to bless your trip and that you might bring the love of the Indian people of Bolivia to their brothers in Estados Unidos....”
The Indian Bahá’ís of South America pray that Indian Bahá’ís from this country will travel to all parts of the world to share the Message with all people that the Promised One has come, and that their love and unity will truly illumine the whole earth.
They have sent this message and their prayers with Mr. Dunbar as they are deeply grieved that they cannot do more for the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh. They are badly oppressed and in extreme poverty and look to their brothers and sisters in the United States for help so that the promises of the beloved Master, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, may at long last become a reality.
FILMSTRIP PROGRAM[edit]
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BAHÁ’Í RINGS & PINS in CLOISONNÉ ENAMEL The graceful design at the heart of the ring is the symbol of the . It is a faithful reproduction of this pattern as it appears at the top of the scalloped corners of the Shrine of the Báb on Mount Carmel. The emblem itself is struck from copper, brazed to a copper alloy ring, and electroplated with gold to produce both beauty and resistance to tarnish. The cloisonné inlay is a hard, durable vitreous glaze and is available in four colors: Red • Green • Blue • Black
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Bahá’í pins in the same colors are also available.
Pin Clasp.
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ORDER THROUGH YOUR COMMUNITY LIBRARIAN Community orders Personal orders must include 10% mailing and handling charge BAHÁ’Í PUBLISHING TRUST |
The Bahá’í Filmstrip Program, together with the successful Cassette Program, can perform an important role in meeting the teaching and deepening needs of the Bahá’í Community. Audio-visual programs utilizing filmstrips and cassette narrations are an effective and valuable media for presenting the Bahá’í Teachings.
WHY FILMSTRIPS?[edit]
- Filmstrip programs can be produced to sell at less than one half the price of slide programs of the same length.
- Filmstrips are compact and lightweight.
- Filmstrips, unlike individual slides, will stay in proper sequence.
- The price of filmstrips will make it possible to supply appropriate filmstrip presentations on the Faith to schools, libraries, and churches.
- Filmstrip programs on subjects closely related to the Bahá’í Teachings are available from agencies such as the United Nations.
VARIETY OF PROGRAMS[edit]
- Introductory presentations on the Bahá’í Faith
- National and international conferences, conventions, and gatherings
- Study, deepening, and consolidation programs
- Teaching and proclamation programs
- National and international presentations
- Child and youth programs
FILMSTRIP PROJECTOR[edit]
A filmstrip projector is necessary to view 35mm filmstrips. The Graflex SM-400 was selected from the projectors now on the market for distribution by the Publishing Trust as a service in helping to launch the Bahá’í Filmstrip Program.
Graflex SM-400[edit]
The Graflex SM-400 is a small projector that retains many of the features of larger units. Basically a filmstrip projector, accessories can be purchased* to use the SM-400 as a slide projector. It gives a clear, bright picture with uniform illumination. The SM-400 is cooled by a quiet motor-driven fan.
- Die-cast aluminum housing weighs 4 pounds
- Standard ASA code CAL 300-watt proximity reflector lamp
- Three-position rotating switch (1) cooling fan and lamp on (2) fan only (3) fan and lamp off
- Graflex exclusive high-efficiency condensing and optical 3-inch f/3.0 projection lens, for rapid, wide-range, push-pull focus
- Optically curved, glassless filmstrip gate made of stainless steel and Delrin. Easily removed for use as a slide projector (with accessories*)
- Large, easy-to-grip knob for film advance
- Elevation controlled by positive, easily accessible screw adjustment
- Pull-up film retainer built into the top of the housing
- Nine-foot long, rubber-covered power cord
*OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
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Complimentary Filmstrip Program
with each filmstrip projector
A filmstrip program with cassette narration covering the 1967 Intercontinental Conferences commemorating the Centenary of the Proclamation of Bahá’u’lláh (first published as a slide program). |
- Projectors sold on a cash basis only
- Please include payment to avoid delay
- Price includes surface postage in U.S.
- Single slide changer
- 24-slide stack changer for using the SM-400 as a slide projector are available from local Graflex dealers:
Bahá’í Publishing Trust, Special Materials Branch, 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091.
Graflex SM-400 Filmstrip Projector $55.00
- Order through your community librarian where possible
- Personal orders must include payment
- Minimum Special Materials order: $3.00
- All personal orders (and community orders under $10.00) add 10% shipping and handling charge
- Minimum postage and handling charge $.30
TWO MAJOR OCEANIC CONFERENCES REMAINING[edit]
These two remaining Conferences are the last of their type to be called by The Universal House of Justice within this Nine Year Plan.
Special arrangements have been made by the National Spiritual Assembly of Canada for special tours to Iceland. There are still seats available, and we are anxious to fill them with American believers. For further information, contact either of the following:
- International Goals Committee
- 112 Linden Avenue
- Wilmette, Illinois 60091
- Mr. Scott Campbell
- 1311 Maple Street
- Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
September 3-5, 71[edit]
Sapporo, Japan[edit]
Reykjavik, Iceland[edit]
In addition, special tours in connection with both Conferences are being offered. The Iceland groups will leave from New York and Toronto, and the Japan tours are being offered from Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Vancouver, British Columbia.
Since time is short, those wishing more information should write or call the International Goals Committee. This Committee will then refer you to the agents offering these group rates and/or tours.
The spirit and love generated by these Conferences (as evidenced by the recent success in Jamaica) and the victories that ensue for the Faith in each of these areas should inspire every believer to attend and participate in at least one of these historic events.
Make plans now to attend.
ALASKA ANNOUNCES SPECIAL TWO-DAY CONFERENCE[edit]
Just prior to the Sapporo Conference (in Japan), we will be holding a two-day conference in Anchorage. Hand of the Cause Mr. Furútan, Counsellor Mrs. Florence Mayberry, and Auxiliary Board Members Howard Brown and Jenabe Caldwell will be participating. This conference will be on August 28 and 29. The following day, a number of believers will be departing for Sapporo.
If any friends in your area are planning to go to the Sapporo Conference via the polar route, perhaps they would enjoy coming to Anchorage for this conference.
- National Spiritual Assembly
- of the Bahá’ís of Alaska
- P.O. Box 1361, Anchorage 99501
U.S. SUMMER PROJECTS[edit]
New England and North Eastern Area[edit]
The Bahá’í group of Conway, New Hampshire, will be conducting a proclamation program from July 10 through July 25. Headquarters will be established in the center of the Town of Conway, from which teaching teams will be organized to visit the dozen or more towns or villages around Conway and the Mt. Washington Valley area. A mobile unit with a van is available, and the three films A New Wind, And His Name Shall Be One, and It’s Just The Beginning will be shown repeatedly throughout the period. Dr. Dwight Allen will speak at a public meeting Saturday evening, July 24. Some housing space is available; however, it is a beautiful area for camping. We would love to see all who can come and help. Contact: Dan Wold, Conway, N.H. 03818, or call (603) 447-8926 days or (603) 447-2651 nights, or pull in to DAN’S ARCO SERVICE in the center of Conway.
Raleigh, North Carolina[edit]
Requirements
8 teachers, aged 15-30 years, 4 black, 4 white. 2 cars. Moderation of dress essential, including some Sunday-go-to-meeting clothes.
Cost
If possible, $20 per week per person for room, board, and living expenses.
Dates
- July 17, 18 - arrival of youth teams.
- July 19, 20 - training institutes.
- July 21-August 18 - teaching the masses, to result in large-scale enrollment of blacks and youth. Consolidation will also go hand in hand with this expansion. One mass teaching conference will be scheduled during this period.
Please contact
- Carole Miller
- 124 Pineland Circle
- Raleigh, N.C. 27606
- Phone: (919) 828-6576
St. Mary’s County, Maryland[edit]
FOCUS: The predominantly Catholic rural black populace, but mass teaching will extend to neighboring Charles County.
For the month of July, the St. Mary’s Bahá’ís will need the assistance of two college-aged males (one black and one white), of a fairly conservative appearance who can each bring approximately $50 spending money and at least one car.
Community provisions include sheets and towels, kitchen privileges, food and gas, teaching pamphlets, and a phone whereby they may be reached if necessary.
In addition to mass teaching, you will enjoy the surrounding rivers and bays which enhance the beauty of the scenic countryside and offer innumerable opportunities for participation in watersports.
St. Mary’s County, being the first settlement in Maryland and founded in 1634, provides a natural background for the history enthusiast as well.
Mass teaching has already proved successful in Maryland, and preparations for promulgating the Cause of God are enthusiastically underway in St. Mary’s County.
Please contact
- Nancy Brock
- Secretary of Summer Teaching Comm.
- Beachville Road
- St. Inigoes, Md. 20684
Anyone who would be interested in deputizing a West Chester friend for a summer youth project, please contact:
- Mrs. Mary Ellen Riegel
- 201 E. Rosedale Ave.
- West Chester, PA. 19380
Summer Schools[edit]
FIRST EASTERN NEW YORK BAHÁ’Í SUMMER SCHOOL
| Dates: | August 14-22 |
| Place: | Oakwood School |
| Rt. 9, South Poughkeepsie | |
| Dutchess County, New York | |
| Rates: |
| Age | ||
| Group | 8 Days | 7 Days |
| Over 21 | $58.00 | $52.00 |
| 15-20 | 48.00 | 42.00 |
| 6-14 | 38.00 | 32.00 |
| Under 6 | 32.00 | 27.00 |
| (Daily rate approximately $10.00) | ||
- Mr. and Mrs. Morley Smith, Registrars
- 31 Edmond Drive
- Ballston Spa, New York
- Telephone: (518) 885-7003
GEORGIA/ALABAMA BAHÁ’Í SUMMER SCHOOL
| Theme: | Building a New World. |
| Dates: | July 3-8 |
| Place: | Camp John Hope, near Perry, Georgia |
| Rates: |
| Age | Entire | |
| Group | Session | Daily |
| 18 and up | $26.00 | $5.25 |
| 10-17 | 20.00 | 4.00 |
| 3-9 | 13.00 | 3.00 |
| 0-2 | 2.00 | .25 |
- Mr. Ben Weil, Registrar
- 859 Tranquil Drive, Austell, Georgia 30001
- Telephone: (404) 436-0119
Please bring your own towels, sheets, and blankets.
GREEN ACRE BAHÁ’Í SCHOOL OFFERS SCHOLARSHIPS
Green Acre offers a limited number of scholarships on a weekly basis to those who cannot afford room and board. These scholarships are offered on a first-come, first-served basis to those who can establish financial need. We advise early application. For further information, please contact:
- Mrs. Ethelinda T. Merson, Secretary
- Green Acre Bahá’í Council
- 5 Katy Hatch Road, Falmouth, Massachusetts 02540
- Location of school: Eliot, Maine
- Sessions: July 3 - August 29
- Work Week: August 29 - September 4
- Rates: Not yet determined.
NEAH BAY COUNCIL WASHINGTON[edit]
August 14 and 15, 1971
Exciting details to be announced in the next issue of THE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í
HAND OF THE CAUSE OF GOD ‘ALÍ AKBAR FURÚTAN TO VISIT DAVISON BAHÁ’Í SCHOOL[edit]
In addition to the many exciting sessions to be held this summer, the school will be honored by the presence of Hand of the Cause Mr. Furútan.
- Location of School: Davison, Michigan 48423.
- Ph. 313-653-5033
- Sessions: Weekly family sessions,
- August 1-7; 8-14; 15-21. Homecoming weekend, Sept. 4-6. Children’s classes during all sessions.
- Rates: single room $7 per day. Double room $6. Dormitory, $5.50. Ages 9-14, $4. Ages 3-8, $3. Bed (no meals) $2.50 per night. No partial day rates.
- The day begins with lunch and ends with breakfast. Family groups (no others) of four or more will receive a 15% discount on the total bill.
- Deposit: Equal to one day per person.
- Registrar: Jean Lozier, 145 Fairfield Drive, Coldwater, Michigan 49036.
The American Bahá’í
112 LINDEN AVENUE; WILMETTE, ILLINOIS 60091
In This Issue
JUNE 1971
CARIBBEAN CONFERENCE
FLOATING INSTITUTE TO CARIBBEAN CONFERENCE
HOOPER DUNBAR VISITS UNITED STATES
JENABE CALDWELL INSTITUTE SUMMER PROJECT, 1971
SUMMER TEACHING AT THE HOUSE OF WORSHIP