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[Page 1]'The real treasury of man is his knowledge.'—Bahá’u’lláh

A major message on the Nineteen Day Feast

To the Followers of Bahá’u’lláh

Dear Bahá’í Friends,

The Nineteen Day Feast, its framework, purpose and possibilities, have in recent years become a subject of increasing inquiry among the friends. It occupied much of the consultation at the sixth International Bahá’í Convention last year, and we feel the time has come for us to offer clarifications.

The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh encompasses all units of human society; integrates the spiritual, administrative and social processes of life; and canalizes human expression in its varied forms toward the construction of a new civilization. The Nineteen Day Feast embraces all these aspects at the very base of society. Functioning in the village, the town, the city, it is an institution of which all the people of Bahá are members. It is intended to promote unity, ensure progress, and foster joy.

"If this feast be held in the proper fashion," ‘Abdu’l-Bahá states, "the friends will, once in nineteen days, find themselves spiritually restored, and endued with a power that is not of this world." To ensure this glorious outcome the concept of the Feast must be adequately understood by all the friends. The Feast is known to have three distinct but related parts: the devotional, the administrative, and the social.

The first entails the recitation of prayers and reading from the Holy Texts. The second is a general meeting where the local Spiritual Assembly reports its activities, plans and problems to the community, shares news and messages from the World Center and the National Assembly, and receives the thoughts and recommendations of the friends through a process of consultation. The third involves the partaking of refreshments and engaging in other activities meant to foster fellowship in a culturally determined diversity of forms which do not violate principles of the Faith or the essential character of the Feast.

Even though the observance of the Feast requires strict adherence to the threefold aspects in the sequence in which they have been defined, there is much room for variety in the total experience. For example, music may be introduced at various stages, including the devotional portion; ‘Abdu’l-Bahá recommends that eloquent, uplifting talks be given; originality and variety in expressions of hospitality are possible; the quality and range of the consultation are critical to the spirit of the occasion. The effects of different cultures in all these respects are welcome factors which can lend the Feast a salutary diversity, representative of the unique characteristics of the various societies in which it is held, and therefore conducive to the upliftment and enjoyment of its participants.

It is notable that the concept of the Feast evolved in stages in relation to the development of the Faith. At its earliest stage in Iran, the individual friends, in response to Bahá’u’lláh's injunctions, hosted gatherings in their homes to show hospitality once every 19 days and derived inspiration from the reading and discussion of the Teachings. As the community grew, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá delineated and emphasized the devotional and social character of the event. After the establishment of local Spiritual Assemblies, Shoghi Effendi introduced the administrative portion and acquainted the community with the idea of the Nineteen Day Feast as an institution. It was as if a symphony, in three movements, had now been completed.

But it is not only in the sense of its gradual unfoldment as an institution that the evolution of the Feast must be regarded; there is a broader context yet. The Feast may well be seen in its unique combination of modes as the culmination of a great historic process in which primary elements of community life—acts of worship, of festivity and other forms of togetherness—over vast stretches of time have achieved a glorious convergence. The Nineteen Day Feast represents a new stage in this enlightened age to which the basic expression of community life has evolved. Shoghi Effendi has described it as the foundation of the new World Order, and in a letter written on his behalf, it is referred to as constituting "a vital medium for maintaining close and continued contact between the believers themselves, and also between them and the body of their elected representatives in the local community."

Moreover, because of the opportunity which it provides for conveying messages from the national and international levels of the administration and also for communicating the recommendations of the friends to those levels, the Feast becomes a link that connects the local community in a dynamic relationship with the entire structure of the Administrative Order. But considered in its local sphere alone there is much to thrill and amaze the heart. Here it links the individual to the collective processes by which a society is built or restored. Here, for instance, the Feast is an arena of democracy at the very root of society, where the local Spiritual Assembly and the members of the community meet on common ground, where individuals are free to offer their gifts of thought, whether as new ideas or constructive criticism, to the building processes of an advancing civilization. Thus it can be seen that aside from its spiritual significance, this common institution of the people combines an array of elemental social disciplines which educate its participants in the essentials of responsible citizenship.

If the Feast is to be properly experienced, beyond an understanding of the concept must also be the preparation of it and the preparation for it. Although the local Spiritual Assembly is administratively responsible for the conduct of the Feast, it often calls upon an individual or a group of individuals to make preparations—a practice which is consonant with the spirit of hospitality so vital to the occasion. Such individuals can act as hosts and are sometimes concerned with the selection of the prayers and readings for the devotional portion; they may also attend to the social portion. In small communities the aspect of personal hospitality is easy to carry out, but in large communities the local Spiritual Assemblies, while retaining the concept of hospitality, may find it necessary to devise other measures.

Important aspects of the preparation of the Feast include the proper selection of readings, the assignment, in advance, of good readers, and a sense of decorum both in the presentation and the reception of the devotional program. Attention to the environment in which the Feast is to be held, whether indoors or outdoors, greatly influences the experience. Cleanliness, arrangement of the space in practical and decorative ways—all play a significant part. Punctuality is also a measure of good preparation.

To a very large extent, the success of the Feast depends on the quality of the preparation and participation of the individual. The beloved Master offers the following advice: "Give ye great weight to the Nineteen Day gatherings, so that on these occasions the beloved of the Lord and the handmaids of the Merciful may turn their faces toward the Kingdom, chant the communes, beseech God's help, become joyfully enamored each of the other, and grow in purity and holiness, and in the fear of God, and in resistance to passion and self. Thus will they separate themselves from this elemental world, and immerse themselves in the ardors of the spirit."

In absorbing such advice, it is illuminating indeed to view the Nineteen Day Feast in the context in which it was conceived. It is ordained in the Kitáb-i-Aqdas in these words: "It hath been enjoined upon you once a month to offer hospitality, even should ye serve no more than water, for God hath willed you to bind your hearts together, though it be through heavenly and earthly means combined." It is clear, then, that the Feast is rooted in hospitality, with all its implications of friendliness, courtesy, service, generosity and conviviality. The very idea of hospitality as the sustaining spirit of so significant an institution introduces a revolutionary new attitude to the conduct of human affairs at all levels, an attitude which is critical to that world unity which the Central Figures of our Faith labored so long and suffered so much cruelty to bring into being. It is in this divine festival that the foundation is laid for the realization of so unprecedented a reality.

That you may all attain the high mark set for the Feast as a "bringer of joy," the "groundwork of agreement and unity," the "key to affection and fellowship" will remain an object of our ardent supplications at the Holy Threshold.

With loving Bahá’í greetings,

The Universal House of Justice August 27, 1989

(Please see the Bahá’í National Review in this issue for a new compilation from the World Center on the Nineteen Day Feast.)

Inside

PEACE FEST '89, the fourth annual celebration of peace at the Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute in South Carolina, is held September 15-17.

A YOUNG BAHÁ’Í’S stand for the oneness of mankind in Greensboro, North Carolina, draws widespread media attention.

THE ASSOCIATION for Bahá’í Studies holds its 14th annual Conference in Irvine, California.

WITH THE UN back in session, September is a busy month for the Bahá’í UN and Public Information offices in New York City.

Four-part study guide on the Kitáb-i-Íqán begins in this issue

The National Spiritual Assembly, in an effort to "increase the Bahá’í education of children, youth and adults throughout the American Bahá’í community"—one of the goals of the Six Year Plan—has identified a number of central Bahá’í texts to be studied intensively by the friends over the remaining years of the Plan. It is the Kitáb-i-Íqán that has been chosen as a subject for intensive study during the current year.

Shoghi Effendi characterized the Kitáb-i-Íqán as "foremost among the priceless treasures cast forth from the billowing ocean of Bahá’u’lláh's Revelation." In it, Bahá’u’lláh clearly, concisely and incontrovertibly sets forth the fundamental principle of progressive revelation. Revealed in the space of only two days and nights, the Kitáb-i-Íqán is acknowledged by Bahá’ís and non-Bahá’ís alike to be a masterpiece of Persian prose, for its style is "at once original, chaste and vigorous." Shoghi Effendi tells us that it occupies a central place in Bahá’í literature, "a position that is unequaled by any work in the entire range of Bahá’í literature, except the Kitáb-i-Aqdas."

To facilitate the study and discussion of this fundamental work, whether through daily individual reading and meditation or through organized deepenings in local communities, the National Assembly has commissioned a four-part study guide to the Kitáb-i-Íqán. This guide, prepared by Melanie Smith with help from Dann May, Brent Poirier and Marie Scheffer, provides information to supplement the text, explains difficult passages, and summarizes the major themes of the book, which, the Guardian has said, sets forth "in outline the Grand Redemptive Scheme of God" and "should be mastered by every Bahá’í." The first two sessions of the study guide are included in this issue of The American Bahá’í.

In its Riḍván 1989 message, the Universal House of Justice points out in the following terms the importance of studying the writings and deepening our understanding of the transforming power of the Holy Word:

"It is not enough to expand the rolls of Bahá’í membership, vital as that is. Souls must be transformed, communities thereby consolidated, new models of life thus attained.... Necessary to the progress of this life-fulfilling transformation is knowledge of the will and purpose of God through regular reading and study of the Holy Word."

The National Spiritual Assembly feels certain that this study guide on the Kitáb-i-Íqán, and the future study guides that will appear on other central works of the Bahá’í writings, will be a valuable aid to Bahá’ís in their efforts to better grasp the significance of Bahá’u’lláh's Revelation and thereby effect the "life-fulfilling transformation" that is the goal of Bahá’u’lláh's teachings. [Page 2]

In fighting spiritual battles, we must rely on unfailing power of Bahá’u’lláh

To the American Bahá’í Community

Dear Bahá’í Friends:

Every morning at dawn we offer prayers to Bahá’u’lláh. We ask that He change this "gnat into an eagle." We beseech Him to refresh our spirits and give us strength and clear vision. We beg that He will inspire us to achieve our goals, not only those of the moment, but the world-shaping tasks which God has ordained that we do: to change the spiritual character of this nation; to complete the metropolis of the Kingdom of God on Mount Carmel; to be the paladins of virtue and show every soul the way of God. We worry that these obligations are beyond our capacity. Do we have the spiritual strength, the discipline, the spirit of sacrifice necessary to succeed?

Our solace is confidence in the power of Bahá’u’lláh. We are indeed too puny to do the work of God. But the Almighty God can do His work through the likes of us. And so we pray, at sunrise every day, to be transformed, to manifest the power of the Holy Spirit in all that we do.

As each day proceeds we labor to fix our thoughts on the perfect example of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. We struggle to approach the standard of the Master: "to be the Lord’s mercy to man; to be the Lord’s grace"; to do some good to every person whose path we cross; to comfort and benefit every soul in some way; to ignore hostility and rejection and to be instead, sincerely kind; "...to be a cure for the ailing, a helper of every victim of oppression, a patron to the disadvantaged."

Each day we fight the spiritual battle to change ourselves, because we know that we must build the Kingdom in our hearts in order to build it in the world. "In this way," writes ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, "the light of divine guidance will shine forth, and the blessings of God will cradle all mankind...."

With warm regards,

National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States September 27, 1989

Temple Restoration Project

The stairs encircling the Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois, made up of 918 pieces of pre-cast concrete, are now being repaired as part of the ongoing Temple Restoration Project. The 68 steps in front of the main entrance have deteriorated and are being replaced after two years of experimentation to develop new concrete to match the original concrete in appearance. This phase of the restoration began last April and is expected to be completed in November. The cleaning of the interior and exterior concrete also began in April and will continue through next summer. The next phase, which should begin next spring, will include the repair of the concrete gutter around the base of the dome. Over the past five years the cost of such repairs has been $1.5 million; about $3.8 million will be required over the next three to four years.

Peace Fest ’89 blends music, prayer to capture hearts in South Carolina

"The Six Year Plan on which we are embarking is a step toward the fulfillment of the spiritual destiny of our community and nation."—National Spiritual Assembly, November 1986

By JACK BOWERS

As a part of their ongoing response to the Six Year Plan goal to increase the involvement of the Faith in the life of society, the Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute and WLGI Radio Bahá’í in South Carolina warmly embraced the local community September 15–17 with Peace Fest ’89, a dynamic program of music, fellowship and prayers for peace.

As has been the case since the first Peace Fest four years ago, the centerpiece was a Peace Concert that featured a heart-stirring performance by the 18-member Bahá’í Peace Orchestra.

The concert, held Saturday evening at the new state-of-the-art Myrtle Beach High School auditorium, also included:

• the presentation of the 1989 Peace Award to Dr. William F. Gibson of Greenville, chairman of the National Board of Directors of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), and the Ambassador Award for Humanitarian Service to Mrs. Juanita Dawes;
• performances by the Greater Inspirational Mass Choir of Horry County and the Bahá’í musical duo "Swan."

Peace Fest ’89 began Friday evening with a Gospel Jubilee in Hemingway at which 10 of the best gospel choirs and singers in the area shook the rafters at the Mitcheon Community Center for more than four hours.

Even before the official opening, however, the Peace Orchestra and Swan were in action, presenting a workshop Friday afternoon at Myrtle Beach High School for some 1,500 young students from throughout the area.

Other components of this year's Peace Fest were a Talent Showcase, held Saturday afternoon at the Mitcheon Center in Hemingway; an interfaith worship service, "Peace in the World," and the traditional closing picnic and barbecue, both held on Sunday at the Gregory Institute.

In honor of Peace Fest ’89, the week of September 11–17 was proclaimed "South Carolina Peace Week" by Gov. Carroll A. Campbell Jr.

Despite heavy afternoon rains that caused flooding, disrupted power and held attendance to about 200, the Saturday evening concert was a memorable event from any standpoint with the Peace Orchestra in top form on its own and in a rousing gospel-flavored finale with the Horry County choir.

The concert was opened in marvelous style by vocalist Suzanne Swan and her husband, guitarist/vocalist Kingsley Swan, who recently moved from Rhode Island as homefront pioneers to Griffin, Georgia.

The Peace Award, given to an

Tenor saxophonist Roger Hogan, one of the Bahá’í Peace Orchestra’s many splendid soloists.

Dr. William F. Gibson (left), chairman of the National Board of Directors of the NAACP, accepts the 1989 Bahá’í Peace Award from Dr. William Smith during Peace Fest ’89.

Young Bahá’í’s stand for oneness of mankind shines medla spotlight on vital Bahá’í principle

The exemplary conduct of Mahin Root, a 14-year-old Bahá’í from Greensboro, North Carolina, and her commitment to the oneness of mankind has attracted national media attention.

When Brenda Root went to register her daughter, Mahin, at Page High School, she was given a form which asked her to designate her daughter's race. Mahin's mother is black and her father is white. Since the form had no space for "other," Mrs. Root made a line through the space and left it blank.

Mahin was told that she would have to choose from one of five racial designations—American Indian, Asian, Hispanic, black or white.

"I'm mixed," she said. "I can't pick one (race) without denying the other."

"There is only one race," her mother added, "and that is the human race. I believe in the oneness of mankind."

Mrs. Root was first told that unless the form was completed, her daughter would not be allowed to enter school. School officials later reversed the decision pending guidance from the U.S. Office of Civil Rights, which requires the information.

Officials explained that the computer could only accept a choice from one of the five listings. "I understand why they need (the information), but it should be accurate," said Mahin.

The controversy was reported on the front page of the Greensboro News and Record and later in Time magazine. Mahin was also interviewed on National Public Radio and wrote a guest column about her commitment to the unity of mankind for another local newspaper.

All media coverage has stated that the Roots are Bahá’ís and that their decision is based in the principle of the oneness of mankind.

This simple act of faith exemplifies the power of living the Bahá’í teachings.

'Rainbow Ribbon Project' fights racism

"Racism, one of the most baneful and persistent evils, is a major barrier to peace."—The Universal House of Justice, in "The Promise of World Peace"

The Spiritual Assembly of West Linn, Oregon, has taken aim at racism in that community by coordinating the "Citizens Against Racism Everywhere Rainbow Ribbon Project."

As explained in an extensive article August 17 in the West Linn Tidings, "the project is a simple one—people are asked to wear or otherwise display a length of rainbow ribbon as a symbol of grassroots opposition to racism and support for racial justice and equality."

Marcia VanOrman, secretary of the Spiritual Assembly of West Linn, said that more than 1,000 ribbons had been distributed in West Linn and Lake Oswego, paid for by the Bahá’í community.

She is quoted in the article as saying that "a key part of the Bahá’í Faith involves elimination of racism and prejudice as a way toward world peace."

The CARE Rainbow Ribbon Project began in Portland and has quickly spread to other cities and towns in Oregon and other states. [Page 3]

Association for Bahá’í Studies holds 14th Conference

"The emancipation of women, the achievement of full equality between the sexes, is one of the most important though less acknowledged prerequisites of peace."—The Universal House of Justice, in "The Promise of World Peace"

By LAURA H. ARTHUR

"Full Partnership: An International Conference on the Equality of Women and Men" was the theme of the 14th annual Conference of the Association for Bahá’í Studies.

The conference, which drew nearly 800 people including many scholars and artists who are striving to promote Bahá’u’lláh’s message of the equality of the sexes, was held September 15-17 at the Irvine Hilton and Towers in Irvine, California.

In her welcoming address, Counselor Jacqueline Delahunt reminded her audience that the equality of women and men already exists, because, she said, "Bahá’u’lláh decreed that they are equal; however, the realization and establishment of this equality in our evolving social order remains to be achieved.

"The purpose of achieving the recognition of equality (of the sexes) is that humankind cannot reach its full potential without it."

Co-chairing the Conference with Counselor Delahunt was Judge Dorothy W. Nelson, chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly.

In her opening statement, Judge Nelson gently prompted those present to remember that the worldwide Bahá’í community is a workshop in which men and women from diverse backgrounds strive to put the concept of equality into practice.

The keynote address, "Full Partnership: Prerequisite to Human Progress," was given by Dr. Robert C. Henderson, secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly.

"Let us dedicate this weekend," he said, "to the furtherance of our understanding of all the ways in which we can make advances in this struggle....Let us open our minds and our hearts to new possibilities, explore new alternatives, so that this conference is productive of more than expanded intellectual understanding, but will produce changes in our lives that will lead to ... full partnership."

Other speakers at the plenary sessions included Riane Eisler, co-founder of the Center for Partnership Studies; Louise Profeit-Leblanc, chairman, and Dr. Hossain Danesh, secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly of Canada; and Bahá’í scholar/authors Bahiyyih Nakhjavání and Dr. Gwen Etter-Lewis.

Also, Dr. David Young of Grants Pass, Oregon, presented a paper by Dr. John Hatcher of the University of South Florida who was unable to attend the Conference.

In her talk, "Equal Partnership Between Women and Men: Foundations for a World Peace," Mrs. Eisler explored the human potential for partnership relations in society, especially among women and men, contrasting it with the "dominator mode" from which humanity is slowly emerging.

"The way a society structures the most fundamental of all relationships, that between women and men," she said, "not only impacts directly our personal lives but impacts everything about a social system—institutions, family, politics—determining whether that system is peaceful or warlike...."

Dr. Richard Thomas (left of center, holding book) leads a discussion group during a Seminar on Intercultural Issues which preceded the Conference of the Association for Bahá’í Studies.

Health Agency was focused on "Women's Issues in Health."

On Saturday evening, recognition was made of those who had won the Association's annual essay contest. This year's winners were:

Ann Boyles, "The Passing of Exquisite Music: A One-Woman Play About Martha Root."

Kerry Hart, "The Role of Music in the Advancement of Civilization."

Robert Rowenfeld and Michael Winger-Bearskin, "Principles of Consultation Applied to the Process of Innovation in a Corporate Environment."

Shahin Vafai, "The Concept of Race Unity."

Among the speakers at the ABS Conference was Dr. Gwen Etter-Lewis.

Dr. Etter-Lewis' talk, "Early Black Women in the Professions: A Model for Full Partnership," illustrated the inspirational effect of Bahá’í principles on some of the first black Bahá’í women in America.

Plenary sessions included musical and dramatic performances by a number of talented artists.

A wide variety of workshops looked at the issue of sexual equality from many angles, some in group discussions and some by the presentation of papers on the topic.

Also included were special programs for the more than 30 children and 30 youth who attended the Conference.

Before the official opening of the Conference on Friday evening, September 15, a full day of professional interest seminars was held.

Meeting at those seminars were members of the Bahá’í Agricultural Institute, Bahá’í Institute for the Arts, and Bahá’í Institute for Environmental Design.

Other seminars covered business and economics, consultation and conflict resolution, education, intercultural issues, marriage and family, the study of religion, and science and technology and the philosophy of science.

On Thursday, a day-long meeting of the Bahá’í International Santour player Kiu Haghighi and his daughter, pianist Keely, entertain during the Conference for the Association for Bahá’í Studies.

The Conference ended Sunday with a luncheon followed by the annual meeting of the Association for Bahá’í Studies.

Bahá’ís in south-central Florida redouble efforts with ambitious ‘Project 99’ teaching campaign

"The present challenge calls for teaching on a scale and of a quality, a variety, and intensity outstripping all current efforts."—The Universal House of Justice, Ridván 1988

Taking to heart the injunction from the Universal House of Justice to redouble our teaching efforts, Bahá’ís in south-central Florida have begun "Project 99," an ongoing teaching campaign whose goal is to raise up at least 99 new believers in a nine-week period in the area around Lake Okeechobee.

In late August the campaign was reported to be on schedule with 66 new enrollees and regular visits to deepen them by Faral Farsine, a Bahá’í who dedicates each Saturday to this important task.

The following comments about Project 99 are taken from a report by Eugenia Pritchard, an assistant to Auxiliary Board member Charles (Cap) Cornwell, who saw the great potential for teaching the Faith around Lake Okeechobee after she volunteered last Ridván to help form local Assemblies in several towns there:

"Since Candy Grant had done some teaching in that area, I asked her if she would like to start in the fall to go there and see if we could find other villages that would be receptive to the Faith. She said, 'Why not make it a summer project?'

"Our first team went to teach on July 8. We found a village called 'Golden Village,' where all the houses are gold in color. There we found 11 hearts of pure gold ready to be enrolled in the Faith.

"Sean Grant (an assistant to the Auxiliary Board) said, 'Why don't we go up every Saturday to teach and have a goal of 11 new believers each time, then we'd have 99 enrollments.' We agreed, and Project 99 was born.

"We have felt the sustaining power of Bahá’u’lláh. Others from Broward County have joined the team along with visitors from Australia and England....

"Our dear friend, Faral Farsine... visits as many of the new Bahá’ís as possible to deepen and pray with them. He presents them with beautiful calligraphy of the Creative Word ... which they may use in their homes.

"In addition to support from the District Teaching Committee of Florida, we have the blessings and help of the Teaching Committee of Broward County.

"A lovely Bahá’í couple in Friemd Village, Louise and Hubert Curtis, have opened their home to us, and we use it as a base.

"Any obstacles—the hot summer sun, the rain, the long hours—vanish and are as nothing compared with the blessings of finding beautiful jewels who are ready to accept the Faith, of seeing the joy in the faces of the children, and of giving a prayer book to a youth who will cherish it for guidance and protection.

"Our plan is to go further into some of the villages toward Pahokee. The Fire Tablet, plus other prayers, is our stronghold.

"Our first deepening institute was held July 29. On the day it was held we had enrolled 10 Bahá’ís, one short of our goal. I turned to Bahá’u’lláh and asked Him to accept our deepening session in lieu of the 11th new believer, as everyone was ready to leave and we could do no more teaching.

"At that moment someone ran into the Curtis home, saying, 'Gene, there's a woman outside who'd like to speak with you.'

"I rushed out to find a lovely woman with a luminous face. Her mother, it seems, had been a Bahá’í in North Carolina, and she was eager to sign her card and join the Bahá’í friends there.

"Bahá’u’lláh sent this beautiful soul to me, and our goal for that day was fulfilled.

"The initiation of Project 99 was made possible through sacrifice when Jamshid Nassehi, one of the first to offer his help, said, 'Bahá’u’lláh is first in my life. I will do whatever I am asked to do in His service.'

"‘Abdu’l-Bahá tells us: ‘O ye servants of the Blessed Beauty! ... It is clear that in this day, confirmations from the unseen world are encompassing all those who deliver the divine Message.’"

—Eugenia Pritchard

Many respond to Canada’s ‘Invitation,’ make second Bahá’í Festival of Arts big success

"Invitation '89," Canada's second Bahá’í National Festival of the Arts held August 10-13 at Bishop's University in Lennoxville, Quebec, was labeled an outstanding success by that country's National Spiritual Assembly.

The conference featured many outstanding artists in the fields of music, drama, dance, gymnastics, architecture, fashion design and visual arts.

Performances were held simultaneously in several theatres; exhibits were presented in a number of buildings; and a crafts fair and book store were set up at the Festival.

Presentations, which were made in English and French, drew a number of non-Bahá’í guests. A children's festival was also held, and children took part in some of the events on the main stage.

Other highlights included presentations by American Indians, a panel of artists speaking on the creative process, and "Mid-Summer Noon," a drama about the life of the Báb.

As an expression of appreciation to the university, the Bahá’ís planted a special peace garden.

A number of Bahá’ís from the U.S. performed in or attended the Festival, which is sponsored by the National Spiritual Assembly and Bahá’í Arts Council of Canada as a part of that country's Six Year Plan.

Next summer's event will be held in one of Canada's Central or Western provinces. [Page 4]

Pioneers to Turks/Caicos make mark in health-care

Dr. Francis Gilbert, a pioneer with his wife, Evelyn, to the Turks and Caicos Islands in the Caribbean, was recently appointed by the Ministry of Social Services of the islands to the Health Practitioners Board.

Dr. Gilbert is the first American and presently the only non-native physician to serve in that capacity. This recognition of his services to the community by the government of the islands represents a growing respect and admiration for the Bahá’í Faith there, as the Gilberts are well-known as Bahá’ís by the islanders.

Dr. Gilbert, one of only four physicians on the island of Providenciales, and his wife, who is a registered nurse, operate the Providenciales Health-Medical Clinic.

A government-owned non-profit corporation, the clinic was built in the 1970s by the islanders themselves through the purchase of cement blocks at $1 apiece. As many as 300 patients a day see Dr. Gilbert for treatment.

An article in the Turks and Caicos News (March 1989) stated: "Dr. Gilbert's popularity is explained by his background and his intense interest in being a fully involved participant in the community....

"After a distinguished 33-year career in U.S. medicine, his and his wife Evelyn (a registered nurse who is often at his side assisting) deliberately sought out a place in the world where they could 'donate' their hard-earned expertise and make a meaningful 'contribution' to a receptive community....

"It is not unusual for Frank and Evie to 'see' and treat as many patients away from PHMC each day as they do from within the facility. The front porch of their... home is often filled with patients to the midnight hour. ...

"What makes PHMC really unique is that it is by and for all of the people. It has no barriers to admittance nor services; it is a 'color-blind' non-profit facility that must grow each day just to stay even."

Pioneers Dr. Francis Gilbert (right) and his wife, Evelyn (left) visit with some fellow Bahá’ís in the Turks and Caicos Islands: Barbara Francis and her children, Akisha and Samuel.

‘Gathering of Light’ confers on teaching at House of Worship

At the request of the National Spiritual Assembly, the Committee for the House of Worship and the staff helped prepare for and took part in a meeting August 20 with communities in the area, the purpose of which was to consult about the teaching work being carried out and how the House of Worship could be used to support and accelerate that work.

About 100 people attended the meeting, which was entitled "Gathering of Light."

After devotions in the auditorium of the House of Worship, Dr. Robert C. Henderson, secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly, spoke about the spiritual significance of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár, using the words of Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Shoghi Effendi and the Universal House of Justice to underscore the importance of the individual's role in teaching the Cause and the essential interconnectedness of spirituality and social action.

Consultation was divided into three major areas:

• children's programs and activities;
• a fireside series;
• the "Light Exchange" and other activities. (The Light Exchange is an open discussion on a focused topic such as racism, equality of the sexes, etc. The discussions are held twice each month at the House of Worship.)

Among activities suggested for projects at the House of Worship were Teaching Institutes, memorial services, increased use of music, and support of monthly peace events at the House of Worship.

The session ended with a brief presentation by the committee and a closing prayer, after which "Commitment to Action" cards were given to each participant. Forty-six people filled them out to render a specific service related to the proposals that were presented and consulted upon at the meeting. Other cards were returned later.

Houston workshop

The Bahá’í Institute for the Healing of Racism in Houston, based on the concept of institutes as defined by the International Teaching Center, was formed recently by Bahá’ís in that Texas city.

On September 2-3 the Institute held its first event, a workshop on dealing with racism.

The 45 Bahá’ís and seven guests who attended represented a wide variety of ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

The workshop was described by one participant as "a humanizing experience which allowed people to move past facades and really get to know each other's humanness,"

September busy month for Bahá’í UN, Public Information offices

September, the opening month of fall sessions at the United Nations, brought an accelerated tempo of involvement to the Bahá’í UN and Public Information offices in New York City.

On September 11, as a prelude to the annual UN conference for non-governmental organizations (NGOs), a conference on Africa: Environment and Development was held at the Bahá’í offices.

The conference, sponsored by the Club of Rome, the UN Non-Governmental Liaison Service, and the Bahá’í International Community, brought together participants from a wide range of disciplines.

Issues of environment and development in Africa were explored from the perspectives of representatives of African and international NGOs, the UN Economic Commission for Africa, the World Bank, USAID, the Canadian International Development Agency and others.

Chairman for the event was the Hon. David MacDonald, member of the Canadian Parliament and chairman of the Standing Committee on the Environment.

Bahá’í representatives to the conference were the director of the International Bahá’í Office of Public Information in New York, the director of the Bahá’í Office of the Environment, a UN Bahá’í representative from the Bahá’í International Community, and the U.S. Bahá’í UN representative.

From September 13-15, the UN Conference on Environment and Development: Only One Earth was held at UN headquarters in New York.

More than 1,000 NGO representatives from around the world were on hand to hear what the experts had to say about the state of the environment and the need for cohesive policies for sustainable development applicable not only to underdeveloped countries but to developed ones as well.

NGO viewpoints were expressed from the podium and in a variety of comments from the audience during the question-and-answer sessions.

Workshops on a wide range of topics followed the plenary sessions. A standing-room-only session on Communicating the Vital Issues of Environment and Development was moderated by Hugh Locke, director of the International Bahá’í Office of Public Information, and included Bahá’í Mona Grieser as one of three panelists.

Dr. Grieser is both principal research scientist at the Institute for International Research and director of the U.S. Agency for International Development's global Communication Support Project.

As an illustration of the diversity of opinion in the same working group, panelist Edward Goldsmith, editor of The Ecologist magazine, added spice to the discussions by stating his belief that the present industrial system is not compatible with sustaining life on this planet. He added that the modernization of agriculture is a "formula for famine" and that we need to be "de-hooked" from massive schemes for agricultural development.

At the final plenary session, the Bahá’í International Community was thanked for its help in organizing the conference.

The conference for NGOs was considered to be one of the most successful of its kind and an indication of the intensity of concern for the environment as it relates to programs for development.

Pictured at the UN Conference on Africa: Environment and Development are (front row left to right) Mary Power, UN representative for the Bahá’í International Community; Ruth Engo, consultant to UNIFEM; Prof. Adebayo Adedeji, UN Economic Commission for Africa; Bertrand Schneider, secretary-general for the Club of Rome, and (back row left to right) Hugh Locke, director of the Office of Public Information, Bahá’í International Community; Mazid N’Diaye, president of the Forum of African Voluntary Development Organizations; and Lawrence Arturo, director of the Environment Office, Bahá’í International Community.

Visitors from Canada, U.S., Jamaica enliven first Cayman Islands school

The first Bahá’í summer school in the Cayman Islands was held the weekend of June 30-July 3. Visitors and teachers came from Canada, the U.S. and Jamaica.

Topics covered were the Majesty of the Faith, the Covenant, Living the Life, Consultation, and Marriage and Family Life.

This was a wonderful time for the believers on these tiny islands in the northwestern Caribbean, and the fellowship with members of the wider Bahá’í community was most welcome. Spirits were high, and an atmosphere of warm and loving friendship prevailed.

It is hoped that this will become an annual event and that it will grow and draw visitors from the Caribbean, the U.S., Canada and Central and South America.

The Bahá’ís of the Caymans wish to thank everyone, resident and visitor alike, who worked so hard to make the school such a great success.

Important notice for communities

A person named Richard Davies has recently approached various Bahá’í communities throughout the country asking for financial help. In doing so, he presents the story that he is a Bahá’í who is visiting the U.S. from either Australia or New Zealand on a traveling teaching trip and was beaten and robbed of his money and identification papers.

The National Spiritual Assembly wishes to warn the friends that Mr. Davies is not a Bahá’í and should not be given any assistance. It is believed that Mr. Davies also has used the name Terry Headon when soliciting funds from the friends. Any contact with Mr. Davies should be reported to the Office of the Secretary at the Bahá’í National Center, 312-869-9039. [Page 5]

THE FUNDS

A quarterly report from the Office of the Treasurer

The Guardian indicated that one important duty in a healthy Bahá’í administration is communication between the friends and their elected representatives. He said that "the duties of those whom the friends have freely and conscientiously elected as their representatives are no less vital and binding than the obligations of those who have chosen them." He further reminded the elected representatives that they should "...within the limits of discretion, take the friends into their confidence, acquaint them with their plans, share with them their problems and anxieties, and seek their advice and counsel."

In turn, he said, the friends should "heartily respond" to the decisions of their elected representatives, this being "the only means that can ensure the protection and advancement of the Cause." (Bahá’í Administration, p. 64)

In that spirit, your National Treasurer's Office would like to begin the "Quarterly Review": short notes from the Office about events and issues raised by the progress of the Faith's affairs or by you. There have been important changes in personnel, policies and procedures in recent months that are of common concern to us all.

Making our contributions work harder

At the direction of the National Spiritual Assembly, new initiatives in the Treasurer's Office relating to the management of funds and investments have resulted in targeting several areas for change. This new cash management program and improved accounting techniques came about through study and consultation among the National Spiritual Assembly, the Treasurer's Office staff, and the National Assembly's Financial Advisory Committee. Having entered the Fourth Epoch and while expecting entry by troops, these new initiatives provide for the evolution of our financial operations, making them more appropriate for this period in Bahá’í history.

These changes will have a serious impact on many functions including the general management of funds, investment decisions, debt retirement, contributions processing and the management of the expenses and revenues of Bahá’í schools and institutes.

The new procedures should facilitate a faster turn-around time for Fund receipts and correspondence, produce timely accounting for Fund expenses and income, provide better reporting to the community and to the National Spiritual Assembly, and allow a significant reduction in our short-term bank debt.

The proposed changes are projected to save the National Fund as much as $100,000 a year. To date, some of the measures implemented have improved efficiency and have thus enabled us to make two payments to the Universal House of Justice totaling $333,332 and to reduce short-term bank debt by some $400,000.

Your new receipt and Fund allocation form

Many of the friends have shared their ideas for improving the new receipt packet and Allocation Form for contributions to the Bahá’í Funds. One by-product of the proposed new cash management system will be the need to modify the receipting process.

Some of the modifications were anticipated when the form was introduced. Others are coming to light with your feedback. All your suggestions give us a great opportunity to consider fresh ideas for this system and its forms.

If you have something to say about the new receipt packet and Allocation Form, or about any other aspect of the services you receive from the Treasurer's Office, please do not hesitate to let us know!

New area code

Beginning November 11 the Bahá’í National Center will have a new area code with 708 replacing the present 312.

A grace period lasting until next February will allow callers to dial the old 312 code to reach the National Center. After that, you must dial 708 to complete the call.

Also, in last month's issue, we inadvertently gave the wrong phone number for the Bahá’í National Center Bulletin Board System (BNCBBS). The correct number (after November 11) is 708-869-0389.

Data processing: tests and difficulties, automated

The National Spiritual Assembly's main computer has been a real source of frustration for some time. Interestingly enough, you have noticed it too, partly because of the tardiness of your Fund receipts.

Given the high costs involved, it has not been easy to fix the problem. Steps are being taken, however, to place this aspect of the National Center operations on a more stable footing.

During recent months, both Bahá’í and non-Bahá’í experts in systems, software design and computer hardware have been consulted.

The result has been a far more precise picture of what is needed to meet present goals and to provide for rapid future growth, as well as the options available and the cost of each option. Choosing the best alternative will still take some time, however, and further consultation is needed to ensure that the best choice is made.

Program in Houston honors Táhirih, other outstanding women

On August 18, a special program commemorating the martyrdom of Táhirih and honoring women was held at the Bahá’í Center in Houston, Texas.

More than 150 people including 30-40 visitors heard keynote speaker Juana Conrad, co-founder of Women for International Peace and Arbitration, discuss the dramatic life of the Persian poetess Táhirih, one of the 19 "Letters of the Living" who were the first to accept the Báb and become His devoted followers.

The evening included a special exhibit of photographs of outstanding black women and of Bahá’í women martyred in Iran in 1983.

Bahá’ís in Orange, California, sponsor big Race Unity Day picnic at local park

PLANET PEOPLE LEASE A guest enjoys free refreshments during the Race Unity Day picnic that drew many non-Bahá’ís last June 17 to a popular public park in Orange, California.

On June 17, the Bahá’í community of Orange, California, carried out its most ambitious program to date, a Race Unity picnic in the city's most popular park.

Banners proclaiming the Faith and the unity of mankind hung for nearly four weeks around the Plaza, the city's distinguishing landmark, to announce the event.

The week before the picnic, flyers were distributed to all the downtown stores and sent to 14,000 homes near the park.

As a result, more than 100 non-Bahá’ís were at the band shell, where presentations and speeches were made, while another 400 responded to an invitation over the park's public address system and stopped for refreshments.

During the festivities, the Los Angeles Bahá’í Youth Workshop gave a performance on race unity and world peace, quoting from the Universal House of Justice's peace message.

A plaque was presented to Mary MacAnenna, an 80-year-old resident, in appreciation of her feeding the homeless in the park five days each week on her own.

Among the speakers were Auxiliary Board member Miguel Osborne and one of his assistants, Carlos Velazquez.

After the picnic, the Bahá’ís of Orange received several phone calls from people who had seen the banners and wanted to know more about the Faith.

A follow-up fireside was stimulating and successful, with the person who had printed the flyers among the seekers who attended.

Valdosta undertakes new teaching plan

After re-electing its local Assembly for the first time in 10 years, the Bahá’í community of Valdosta, Georgia, has developed a teaching plan that includes such activities as presenting copies of Gleanings and The Bahá’í Faith: The Emerging Global Religion to local libraries to replace missing books and to enhance the lending materials for the public.

Firesides are held each Thursday evening at Valdosta State College and a Bahá’í booth is maintained at the Student Union.

LETTERS

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

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

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

'The time is now'

To the Editor:

Although over the years I have gained many an insight from letters to The American Bahá’í, this is the first time I have submitted one of my own.

Soon after I was blessed with an introduction to the Writings of the Faith I began to learn something of the destiny of this country. Our children, perhaps our grandchildren, would one day become the Champion-Builders of a new World Order. The thought of such an honor was inspiring.

Then, two years ago, the Universal House of Justice shared its annual Ridván message. "The stage is set," it said, for the entry by troops so long anticipated by the Bahá’í world.

Included were four words that still fill me with awe whenever I hear them: "The time is now."

Never have I read a statement so exciting and yet so frightening. The Champion-Builders will not come from some unborn generation. The future has arrived.

I’ve often dreamed of what it would be like to have been alive at some important juncture in human history. As a Christian, I wondered what it must have been like to be alive when Peter and Paul spread the message of Jesus Christ far and wide. As a new Bahá’í, I dreamed of being side by side with Vahid or one of the other early believers as they lived their exciting lives in service to Bahá’u’lláh.

I needn’t dream any longer. Future generations will look to this time in history as one of mankind's greatest moments.

I have great concern about the American Bahá’í community. We have been given an awesome responsibility—that of participating... See LETTERS page 15

Alabama/Coushatta Reservation hosts youth service project

In eastern Texas, 20 Bahá’í youth gathered August 5-18 on the Alabama and Coushatta Indian Reservation for the annual teaching/service project sponsored by the District Teaching Committee of Eastern Texas No. 2.

Whereas in past years the young Bahá’ís had been assigned to various clean-up duties, this year the tribal administrator asked them to tour the tribe's tourist complex and come up with recommendations for its improvement.

The administrator later consulted with the youth about their ideas, and then allowed them to work according to their individual aptitutes which he had learned in advance.

For example, one young man who had artistic ability was asked to draw a map of the Reservation's hiking trails.

On the last evening of the project, the administrator and the tribal chairman both approached the project coordinator and said they wanted their Indian youth to learn more about the Faith.

HUQUQU’LLÁH

"It is indeed a most excellent favor, a boundless grace vouchsafed unto whosoever is privileged in this day to render service to the Cause of God, for its goodly results and the fruits thereof will last as long as the kingdom of earth and heaven will endure." — Bahá’u’lláh

Payments for Huqúqu’lláh should be made to "Bahá’í Huqúqu’lláh Trust" and sent to one of the Trustees: Dr. Elsie Austin, P.O. Box 927, Silver Spring, MD 20910 (Tel: 301-589-8481); Dr. Amin Banani, Santa Monica, CA 90402 (Tel: 213-394-5449); Dr. Daryush Haghighi, Rocky River, OH 44116 (Tel: 216-333-1506).

Inquiries about Huqúqu’lláh should be referred to one of the Trustees or to the Office of the Secretariat, Bahá’í Huqúqu’lláh Trust, Rocky River, OH 44116. [Page 6]

NEW RELEASE

The National Spiritual Assembly is pleased to announce the publication of Developing Distinctive Bahá’í Communities: Guidelines for Spiritual Assemblies, a significant advance toward achieving one of the goals of the Six Year Plan, fostering the maturation of Bahá’í communities.

Developing Distinctive Bahá’í Communities Guidelines for Spiritual Assemblies Looseleaf, 3-Hole Punched Format, SC $24.95

A compilation of approximately 450 pages designed to give Spiritual Assemblies access to Bahá’í writings on topics relevant to their needs and goals. It consists primarily of writings from Shoghi Effendi and the Universal House of Justice, many of which are published for the first time. Its twenty chapters include extracts on topics such as: The Organization of the Assembly, Community Membership, Feast, Marriage, Divorce, and Relationship with Government.

An essential reference text for Spiritual Assemblies, it is also excellent for individual deepening and for use in study classes and Bahá’í schools. An Index will be available later this year and will be distributed free of charge upon request.

Bahá’í Publishing Trust of the United States

Bahá’í Faith Teaching Booklet

SC $1.00

Widely used as one of the ways to introduce the Faith to seekers, the teaching booklet is again available. This revised edition is the fruit of collaboration between the National Spiritual Assembly of Canada and the Continental Board of Counselors for the Americas. It contains many updated full color photographs of Bahá’í communities world-wide, holy places, and Houses of Worship. It also features revised text, with excerpts from the Bahá’í writings as well as simple instructions for using the booklet. Its warmth, simplicity, and beautiful photographs make an unforgettable impression on seekers. When used in conjunction with other teaching and deepening aids, it can help stimulate the reader to investigate our world-embracing Faith.

Bahá’í Publications Canada

Children’s Feast Packets / Ages 6-13

1. 1 Packet - Spring $32.50

Splendor, Glory, Beauty, Grandeur, Light

1. 2 Packet - Summer $32.50

Mercy, Words, Perfection, Names, Might

1. 3 Packet - Fall $32.50

Will, Knowledge, Power, Speech, Questions

1. 4 Packet - Winter $26.00

Honor, Sovereignty, Dominion, Loftiness

Feast Activity Packets for Bahá’í Children A Set of 19 Packets the very Baha Mash with Teacher’s Guide WellSpring INTERNATIONAL

copyright permission allowing communities or individuals to make extra copies.

19-Month Packet $114.00 Includes all four packets noted above

A series of 19 packets designed to involve children ages 6-13 in the Nineteen Day Feast. Each eight-to ten-page packet for every Bahá’í month includes attractive illustrations, quotations from the Bahá’í writings, and activities both on and off the page, including mazes, connect-the-dots, and crafts projects.

A Teacher's Guide is included for each month with lists of materials needed, answers to questions and quizzes, and suggested additional activities designed to deepen the students and focus their attention for one to two hours.

These excellent resource materials for children include unrestricted WellSpring International

The Bahá’í Faith: An Introduction

hosted by Alex Rocco VT $19.95 LOW-PRICED, Beta or VHS

Now permanently priced at $19.95, The Bahá’í Faith: An Introduction is great for firesides and individual teaching. Also an excellent gift for libraries, churches, or others who are interested in the Faith.

Unlimited Visions Productions

VISA/MasterCard / American Express / Check / Money Order 1-800-999-9019 Order now through the

REPRINTS

Kitáb-i-Íqán The Book of Certitude PS $6.50

Containing the basic tenets of the Bahá’í Faith, the Kitáb-i-Íqán, helps us to grasp the full significance of the scriptures of other religions, and to appreciate the true mission of the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh. The National Spiritual Assembly has asked youth and adults to read and study the Kitáb-i-Íqán this year as a personal education objective.

Bahá’í Publishing Trust of the United States

The Promise of World Peace

Presentation Edition The Universal House of Justice SC $3.00

In its fifth reprint, this popular edition of the peace statement from the Universal House of Justice still remains the most dignified presentation edition for government officials and local dignitaries.

Following unusual production delays from the printer, it will be available in late October.

Bahá’í Publishing Trust of the United States

FAMILY DEVELOPMENT

Creating a Successful Family by Khalil A. Khavari and Sue Williston Khavari HC $18.95/SC $11.95

This new book-written by a husband and wife team who are themselves parents-outlines a refreshing approach to family life, and addresses specific problems faced by families today. It demonstrates that by using the process of consultation, families can create a more positive and caring atmosphere, enriching all of its members and bringing them closer together. Bahá’í Distribution Service / 1-800-999-9019

Creating a Successful Family provides practical advice for all family members who are striving for greater unity in their home life.

One World Publications

NEW TITLES

Bahá’í Wall Calendar/147 B.E. CA $2.75

In observance of the 50th anniversary of the passing of the Hand of the Cause of God May Ellis Maxwell, the Bahá’í Wall Calendar for 147 B.E. features a stunning full color photograph by Mike Stump of her gravesite in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Bahá’í Publishing Trust of the United States

Pocket Calendar/147 B.E.CA Pkg./10 $3.50

Bahá’í DateBook/147 B.E. CA $3.50

Bahá’í History Calendar/1990 CA $6.50

The Environment and Literacy This 1990 calendar marks the Bahá’í Faith's third year of membership in the World Wide Fund for Nature's Network on Conservation and Religion with full color photographs of animals in their natural habitat. It also salutes the International Year of Literacy with photographs and highlights of progress toward achieving literacy throughout the Bahá’í World.

Bahá’í Distribution Hawaii

Essays in Honor of the Late H. M. Balyuzi

HC $32.50 SC $24.50 Studies in the Bábí and Bahá’í Religions, Volume Five edited by Moojan Momen

This groundbreaking work contains three essays exploring new areas in the field of Bahá’í theology; Western Bahá’í history is discussed in two other articles.

Kalimát Press

Creative Circle

SC $13.95 Art, Literature and Music in Bahá’í Perspective edited by Michael Fitzgerald, with a foreword by Charles Walcott

Examines the impact of the Bahá’í revelation on the arts. Twelve Bahá’í artists, writers, musicians, and educators share the issues they face as they attempt to apply Bahá’í values to their work.

Kalimát Press

United Doves Steps for Racial Harmony

Poster-pamphlet - 11X17 inches PP 100/$30.00 Mini-pamphlet - 5-3/4X2-7/8 inches/folded PP 100/$4.00 Invitation Blanks - 2-up on 11-113X5-3/4 inches PP 200/$8.00 (Customize for your event. Print on these originals and trim to size.)

Thousands of these attractive pamphlets have been distributed at fair booths, conventions, teaching projects, firesides, proclamation events, and for personal use. Their simple beauty attracts everyone to the more in-depth and interesting information provided on the reverse side. The smaller pamphlets are excellent for mailings, handouts, or personalized invitations to local events. Distributed only in bulk quantities, these materials are excellent for spreading the message of peace.

Special Ideas

PLEASE NOTE:

Effective November 11, 1989, the Area Code for direct dialing when calling the Bahá’í Publishing Trust & Distribution Service will be changed to 708 from 312. If you are calling us directly and not using our toll-free number listed below, remember to use this number: 1-708-251-1854

Thank you for your help. 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091

Ordered by: (Please print or type) Date. Name Address City State Zip. Day Phone.

Circle one: American Express MasterCard VISA Check Money Order Expiration Date: Account Number: Signature:

TITLE QTY TAB 10/89 COST AMOUNT TOTAL

Order through your Local Bahá’í Distribution Representative, or send your order with payment to: 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091 Bahá’í Distribution Service [Page 7]

Session 1: Introduction to the Kitáb-i-Íqán

PREPARING FOR STUDY:

Materials: Study guide, Kitáb-i-Íqán, Prayers and Meditations, God Passes By, note-taking materials.

Prayer: Prayers and Meditations, 4.

Meditation: "Shouldst thou come with the whole of thy being to God and be attracted to the lights of the Kingdom of God and be enkindled by the fire of the love of God, then wilt thou see that which thou canst not see today, wilt comprehend the inner significance of the Word of God and thoroughly understand the mysteries contained in the holy Books." ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, in Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í World Faith: Selected Writings of Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 2d ed. (Wilmette, Ill.: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1976), 391

Procedure: The sessions may be used for individual or group deepening. Whether you are studying alone or as part of a group, begin with a prayer. Then read the meditation aloud. Allow for a few moments of silence to meditate on the passage. If you are in a group, spend about five minutes discussing insights. You may want to make notes about your insights and about other questions posed in this and subsequent sessions. (The lines in the study guide only suggest places to pause and write or discuss.)

Study: In the Kitáb-i-Íqán (172), Bahá’u’lláh states that "in every age, the reading of the scriptures and holy books is for no other purpose except to enable the reader to apprehend their meaning and unravel their innermost mysteries. Otherwise reading, without understanding, is of no abiding profit unto man." The study guide offered here will help you to gain greater understanding of the Kitáb-i-Íqán, a book the Guardian stated "should be mastered by every Bahá’í." The hope is to touch the heart as well as the mind; hence prayer, meditation, and action are part of the learning process. Session I is an overview of the Kitáb-i-Íqán, covering its history, richness, and importance. The remaining three sessions explore major themes of the Kitáb-i-Íqán. In Session II—The Quest and the Seeker—the relationship between the search, what is being sought, and the condition of the seeker is considered. In Session III—The Books Are Unsealed—Bahá’u’lláh’s explanation of the symbols used in the holy books is studied. Session IV enables readers to explore more fully a theme of their own choosing. References include page numbers and line numbers (for example, "6:10-7:3" means page 6, line 10, through page 7, line 3).

PART I: WHAT IS THE HISTORY OF THE KITÁB-I-ÍQÁN? (20 minutes)

The Kitáb-i-Íqán was revealed in the city of Baghdad, the capitol of Iraq, in 1862 about one and a half years before Bahá’u’lláh publicly announced His mission in the garden of Ridván. During the period before His announcement, Bahá’u’lláh was actively engaged in rebuilding the Bábí community and preparing it to receive His soon-to-be-announced station as the One Whom the Báb had foretold "Him Whom God shall make manifest."

Bahá’u’lláh wrote the Kitáb-i-Íqán to answer questions posed to Him by the eldest of the Báb’s three maternal uncles. The uncle, Hájí Mírzá Siyyid Muhammad, was not convinced that his nephew, the Báb, could be the Promised One of Islam. He was concerned about the signs that must accompany the promised Revelation and the manner of their fulfillment.

Bahá’u’lláh answered Hájí Mírzá Siyyid Muhammad’s questions and dispelled all of his doubts so that Hájí Mírzá Siyyid Muhammad recognized, with certitude, the Báb’s station. By writing the Kitáb-i-Íqán, Bahá’u’lláh also fulfilled the Báb’s prophecy that "Him Whom God would make manifest" would complete the text of the unfinished Persian Bayán (the Báb’s Book).

The questions were posed under four headings:

"1. The Day of Resurrection. Is there to be corporeal [bodily] resurrection? The world is replete [utterly filled] with injustice. How are the just to be requited [repayed] and the unjust punished?

"2. The Twelfth Imám [successor to Muhammad] was born at a certain time and lives on. There are traditions, all supporting the belief. How can this be explained?

"3. Interpretation of holy texts. This Cause does not seem to conform with beliefs held throughout the years. One cannot ignore the literal meaning of holy texts and scriptures. How can this be explained?

"4. Certain events, according to the traditions that have come down from the Imáms, must occur at the advent of the Qá’im [Promised One of Islam]. Some of these are mentioned. But none of these has happened. How can this be explained?" Quoted from H. M. Balyuzi, Bahá’u’lláh: The King of Glory (Oxford: George Ronald, 1980), 164–65.

The manner in which the Kitáb-i-Íqán was revealed was a miracle in and of itself. Pausing only to drink and walk about, Bahá’u’lláh chanted the text of the Kitáb-i-Íqán in the span of two days and two nights, while His amanuensis (secretary) furiously copied down every word. The original was transcribed by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá when He was eighteen years old. Along the margins of some of the pages, Bahá’u’lláh wrote, in His own hand, corrections and inserted several passages. The original copy remained in the family of Hájí Mírzá Siyyid Muhammad until 1948, when it was presented to Shoghi Effendi. He received it a few years later and placed it in the Bahá’í International Archives Building on Mount Carmel, Haifa, Israel. (Summarized by Dann May.)

Learning Activities:

1. How would these four questions be phrased if they were posed by someone from a Christian or Jewish background?

2. Why was it important for Bahá’u’lláh to prove the station of the Báb?

FURTHER READING: Adib Taherzadeh, The Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh: Baghdád 1853-63 (Oxford: George Ronald, 1974; 2d rev. ed. 1976) 153-59; H. M. Balyuzi, Bahá’u’lláh: The King of Glory (Oxford: George Ronald, 1980), 149-50.

PART II: WHAT IS THE KITÁB-I-ÍQÁN ABOUT? (30 minutes)

It is difficult to state simply the contents of the Kitáb-i-Íqán. Like a fine piece of tapestry, many ideas and themes are woven together to form a beautifully rich and complex work that can be appreciated on many different levels. In this section, you will get a broad overview of the threads that make up the fabric of the Kitáb-i-Íqán. The list of themes that follows is by no means exhaustive. However, it is hoped that it will provide a framework for further study and that you will add to the list as you continue to study the Kitáb-i-Íqán. After reading the following passages, do the learning activities at the end of Part II.

The overview is gleaned from a variety of sources. [Page 8]The four questions posed by the Báb’s uncle suggest some of the Kitáb-i-Íqán’s major themes. Shoghi Effendi elucidates the following themes:

1. This Book sets "forth in outline the Grand Redemptive Scheme of God." Shoghi Effendi, God Passes By, rev. ed. (Wilmette, Ill.: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1974), 139.

2. "Of special importance is the Book of the Íqán which explains the attitude of the Cause towards the prophets of God and their mission in the history of society." From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, in The Importance of Deepening Our Knowledge and Understanding of the Faith, comp. The Universal House of Justice (Wilmette, Ill.: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1983) #102, p. 31.

3. "The Íqán... contains the basic tenets of the Faith." From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, in Importance of Deepening, #97, p. 30.

4. "The Íqán is the most important book written on the spiritual significance of the Cause." Shoghi Effendi, letter dated 14 June 1930, in The Light of Divine Guidance: The Messages of the Guardian of the Bahá’í Faith to the Bahá’ís of Germany and Austria (Langenhain, West Germany: National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Germany, 1985), 37.

5. In God Passes By, 139, Shoghi Effendi points out many of the main ideas found in the Kitáb-i-Íqán: "Within a compass of two hundred pages it a. "proclaims unequivocally* the existence and oneness of a personal God, unknowable, inaccessible, the source of all Revelation, eternal, omniscient, omnipresent and almighty; b. "asserts the relativity* of religious truth and the continuity of Divine Revelation; c. "affirms the unity of the Prophets, the universality of their Message, the identity of their fundamental teachings, the sanctity* of their scriptures, and the twofold character of their stations; d. "denounces the blindness and perversity* of the divines and doctors of every age; e. "cites and elucidates* the allegorical* passages of the New Testament, the abstruse* verses of the Qur’an, and the cryptic* Muhammadan traditions which have bred those age-long misunderstandings, doubts and animosities that have sundered and kept apart the followers of the world’s leading religious systems; f. "enumerates the essential prerequisites for the attainment by every true seeker of the object of his quest; g. "demonstrates the validity*, the sublimity* and significance of the Báb’s Revelation; h. "acclaims the heroism and detachment of His disciples; i. "foreshadows, and prophesies the world-wide triumph of the Revelation promised to the people of the Bayán; j. "upholds the purity and innocence of the Virgin Mary; k. "glorifies the Imáms* of the Faith of Muhammad; l. "celebrates the martyrdom, and lauds the spiritual sovereignty, of the Imám Husayn, m. "unfolds the meaning of such symbolic terms as 'Return,' 'Resurrection,' 'Seal of the Prophets' and 'Day of Judgment'; n. "adumbrates* and distinguishes between the three stages of Divine Revelation; o. "and expatiates*, in glowing terms, upon the glories and wonders of the 'City of God' renewed, at fixed intervals, by the dispensation of Providence, for the guidance, the benefit and salvation of all mankind."

unequivocally: straightforwardly; unambiguously relativity: the idea that religion must be seen in relationship to the condition of the people to whom it is revealed universality: the state of comprehensiveness or all-inclusiveness sanctity: sacredness perversity: the state of being stubbornly opposed to something elucidate: to clearly explain allegorical: having hidden, spiritual meaning that is clothed in a story or symbol abstruse: difficult to understand cryptic: mysterious, puzzling enumerate: to list or name one by one validity: the state of being well supported or well reasoned sublimity: exalted loftiness Imáms: successors to the Prophet Muhammad adumbrate: to foreshadow or outline expatiate: to speak or write at length

6. Adib Taherzadeh also provides insight into many of the Kitáb-i-Íqán’s main themes. In Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh: Baghdád, he identifies the following themes in Part I (pages 3-93): Reasons for man’s opposition to the Prophets Signs of the return of Christ Interpretation of symbolic terms found in holy texts Further reasons for rejection of the Prophets

He identifies the following themes in Part II (pages 97-257): The nature of God and the Manifestations The sovereignty of the Prophets The meaning of "life," "death," "resurrection" The veil of knowledge Requirements of the true seeker Proofs of the Báb’s revelation Anticipation of Bahá’u’lláh’s revelation

Learning Activities: 1. Choose one or more of the main ideas/themes that are listed and consider ways in which you could apply this knowledge. 2. Read the following passages in the Kitáb-i-Íqán and decide to which ideas/themes they apply: a. 6:10-7:3 b. 256:1-256:15 c. 216:16-217:2 d. 221:17-223:3 e. 61:23-62:20

Kitáb-i-Íqán / Study Guide

FURTHER READING: In "The Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh," (The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh: Selected Letters, 2d ed. [Wilmette, III.: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1974]), Shoghi Effendi quotes passages from the Kitáb-i-Íqán to illustrate his exposition of the fundamental truths of the Bahá’í Faith. See pages 113-16 in The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh.

PART III: WHY READ THE KITÁB-I-ÍQÁN

To Westerners, the writing style of the Kitáb-i-Íqán may be somewhat difficult to understand. Many of the names, examples, and traditions Bahá’u’lláh uses as proofs are unfamiliar to the average Western reader. It must be remembered that the Kitáb-i-Íqán was written to a Muslim who had specific questions about the Báb that related to Islamic prophecy and tradition. Therefore, many of the examples Bahá’u’lláh gives in this book come from the Qur’an—the holy book of Islam—and from Islamic tradition. In many places, however, Bahá’u’lláh proves the reality of the Báb by first helping the reader to see the truth of his own religion. He cites examples and proofs that come from Jewish and Christian scriptures and history. This makes the Kitáb-i-Íqán especially valuable as an aid to teaching Christians and Jews. In the back of the Kitáb-i-Íqán there is a glossary to help with unfamiliar names and terms.

Although the language of the Kitáb-i-Íqán may be challenging, much can be gained through its study. The importance of the Kitáb-i-Íqán and the benefits to be gained from its study are explained in the passages below.

As you read the passages suggested under "Benefits of Studying the Kitáb-i-Íqán" (see column 1 on facing page), underline the phrases or sentences that describe the Kitáb-i-Íqán. Put parentheses () around those phrases that direct our actions. Double underline those passages that describe the benefits of studying the Kitáb-i-Íqán. A passage from that section is included as an example.

Station of the Kitáb-i-Íqán

"Foremost among the priceless treasures cast forth from the billowing ocean of Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation ranks the Kitáb-i-Íqán.... A model of Persian prose*, of a style at once original, chaste and vigorous, and remarkably lucid*, both cogent* in argument and matchless in its irresistible eloquence*, this Book, setting forth in outline the Grand Redemptive Scheme of God, occupies a position unequalled by any work in the entire range of Bahá’í literature, except the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, Bahá’u’lláh’s Most Holy Book. Revealed on the [Page 9]eve of the declaration of His Mission, it proffered* to mankind the 'Choice Sealed Wine,' whose seal is of 'musk,' and broke the 'seals' of the 'Book' referred to by Daniel, and disclosed the meaning of the 'words' destined to remain 'closed up' till the 'time of the end.'" Shoghi Effendi, God Passes By, 138-39.

prose: ordinary speech or writing-not poetry lucid: clear; easily understood by ad cogent: forceful and convincing eloquence: persuasive and expressive speech or writing proffered: offered for acceptance

"Well may it be claimed that of all the books revealed by the Author of the Bahá’í Revelation, this Book alone, by sweeping away the age-long barriers that have so insurmountably* separated the great religions of the world, has laid down a broad and unassailable* foundation for the complete and permanent reconcili- ation of their followers." Shoghi Effendi, God Passes By, 139.

insurmountably: not capable of being over- come unassailable: not able to be attacked

"Until the Kitáb-i-Íqán was revealed, the significance of the Missions of all the Prophets of God, the purpose of Their Revelations and the true meaning of Their words had remained undisclosed. With the revelation of this book, the significance of the 'words' which according to Daniel were 'closed up and sealed till the time of the end' became apparent. The 'seal' which Providence for thousands of years had placed upon the Holy Books of all religions was removed." Taherzadeh, Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh: Baghdád 160-61.

Benefits of Studying the Kitáb-i-Íqán

"Were you to ponder, but for a while, these utterances in your heart, you would surely find the portals of understanding unlocked before your face, and would behold all knowledge and the mysteries thereof unveiled before your eyes." Bahá’u’lláh, Kitáb-i-Íqán, 52.

"... all the Scriptures and the mysteries thereof are condensed into this brief account. So much so, that were a person to ponder it a while in his heart, he would discover from all that hath been said the myster- ies of the Words of God, and would apprehend* the meaning of whatever hath been manifested by that ideal King." Bahá’u’lláh, Kitáb-i-Íqán, 237.

apprehend: to grasp with understanding

"The Sacred Books are full of allusions* to this new dispensation. In the Book of Íqán, Bahá’u’lláh gives the key-note and explains some of the outstanding passages hoping that the friends will continue to (study the Sacred Books by themselves) and (unfold the mysteries found therein.)

The people, failing to comprehend the meaning of the symbols and the truth of the Sacred Verses, thought them to be myths and unrealizable dreams. It is the (duty of the friends) who have been endowed by Bahá’u’lláh with the power of discernment* [to study these Sacred Books], [ponder upon their passages] and [teach the disheartened people of the earth the treasures of knowledge they enclose]." From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, in Importance of Deepening

1. 91, p. 28.

allusion: an indirect reference discernment: the ability to grasp and compre- hend what is not clear or not easily recognized

"You should form study classes and read the important books that have been published, especially the Íqán which contains the basic tenets of the Faith. The one who ponders over that book and grasps its full signifi- cance will obtain a clear insight into the old scriptures and appreciate the true mission of the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh." From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, in Importance of Deepening #97, p. 30.

tenets: basic principles held by a person or an organization

"Shoghi Effendi hopes that you will exert all your efforts to deepen your knowledge of the literature of the Movement, until you become fully acquainted with its spirit and tenets. Unless you do obtain such a firm hold you will never be able to teach others and render real service to the promulgation* of the Faith. Of special importance is the Book of the Íqán which explains the attitude of the Cause towards the prophets of God and their mission in the history of society." From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, in Importance of Deepening, #102, p. 31.

promulgation: proclamation

"He fully approves the idea of holding study classes, for the deeper the friends go in their understanding of the teachings the more firm and steadfast they will become and the more unwavering in their support of the institutions of the Faith. Books such as the Íqán, Some Answered Questions and The Dawn-Breakers should be mastered by every Bahá’í. They should read these books over and over again. The first two books will reveal to them the significance of this divine revelation as well as the unity of all the Prophets of old. The last book will show how the Faith was ushered into the world and how its early adherents heroically faced martyrdom and suffering in their desire to establish the Cause throughout the world." From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, in Importance of Deepening,

1. 106, p. 33.

Learning Activities

1. List the benefits to be gained from studying the Kitáb-i-Íqán.

2. Write a short letter to your Bahá’í community, convincing others to study the Kitáb-i-Íqán. Be sure to include a statement about its importance and the benefits to be gained through its study. This can be an individual or small-group activity. If you are doing this as a group, share the letters when you are finished. Aternate activities could be role playing, designing posters, or planning an ad- vertising campaign, all done with the same goal: to convince others to study the Kitáb-i-Íqán.

ASSIGNMENT FOR SESSION 2-THE QUEST AND THE SEEKER

Read and meditate on pages 3-6:9, 192-95. Consider what the seeker is searching for, the purpose of the search, the condition of the seeker, and the results of meeting the requirements.

Reading Materials for Sessions 1 and 2 of the Study Guide to the Kitáb-i-Íqán

The Kitáb-i-Íqán The Book of Certitude by Bahá’u’lláh

Containing the basic tenets of the Bahá’í Faith, the Kitáb-i-Íqán helps us to grasp the full significance of the scriptures of other religions and to appreciate the true mission of the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh. The National Spiritual Assembly has asked youth and adults to read and study the Kitáb-i-Íqán this year as a personal edu- cation objective.

PS $6.50

Prayers and Meditations by Bahá’u’lláh PS $4.95/HC $17.95

Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh HC $17.95 / SC $8.00

The Seven Valleys and The Four Valleys by Bahá’u’lláh HC $6.95

God Passes By by Shoghi Effendi HC $24.00/SC $14.00

The Bahá’í Distribution Service 1-800-999-9019 [Page 10]

Kitáb-i-Íqán/Study Guide

PREPARING FOR STUDY:

Materials: Study guide, Kitáb-i-Íqán, Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, note-taking materials.

Prayer: Bahá’í Prayers, 167-68 (United States Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1985 ed.).

Meditation: "God has given man the eye of investigation by which he may see and recognize truth. He has endowed man with ears that he may hear the message of reality and conferred upon him the gift of reason by which he may discover things for himself. This is his endowment and equipment for the investigation of reality. Man is not intended to see through the eyes of another, hear through another's ears nor comprehend with another's brain. Each human creature has individual endowment, power and responsibility in the creative plan of God." ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, The Promulgation of Universal Peace (1982 ed.), 293.

Procedure: Whether you are praying alone or as part of a group, begin with a prayer. Then read the meditation aloud. Allow for a few moments of silence to meditate on the passage. If you are in a group, spend about five minutes discussing insights.

Study: In this session you will study why it is necessary to search, Bahá’u’lláh's description of what is being sought, the requirements of the individual seeker, the obstacles to finding what is desired, and the consequences of participating or not participating in the search.

The Báb's uncle desired to know for certain whether the Báb truly fulfilled the requirements necessary to claim the station of the Promised One of Islam. In presenting the proofs of the Báb's station, Bahá’u’lláh, in a sense, turns the tables on Hájí Mírzá Siyyid Muhammad and places the finding of certitude within the control of the individual who seeks to know God. Certain conditions within the seeker's heart and mind heavily influence the process of search.

PART I: WHY SEARCH? (20 minutes)

To understand why search is necessary, read Gleanings, 70-73, Section XXIX.

Then reread the first paragraph of the Kitáb-i-Íqán. In that paragraph Bahá’u’lláh tells us to sanctify our souls so that we may attain the station God has destined for us. Next, read the following passages, which give us further clues about that station:

"I implore Thee, by Thy Name which none hath befittingly recognized, and whose import no soul hath fathomed...." Bahá’u’lláh, Prayers and Meditations, 56.

"The quintessence of knowledge [the most knowledgeable of the knowledgeable] is powerless to comprehend Thy nature...." Bahá’u’lláh, Prayers and Meditations, 222

"Whoso claimeth to have known Thee hath, by virtue of such a claim, testified to his own ignorance; and whoso believeth himself to have attained unto Thee, all the atoms of the earth would attest his powerlessness and proclaim his failure." Bahá’u’lláh, Prayers and Meditations, 123.

Learning Activities: 1. Explain in your own words the principle of separation and distinction. 2. What is the station God has destined for us? 3. Do we ever fully attain that station?

PART II: THE QUEST (30-40 minutes)

Bahá’u’lláh uses the term quest to describe the search for the Beloved. A quest is a purposeful search for something. It is an action that includes both a pursuit and a journey.

Learning Activities: To better understand the soul's quest, make a chart like the one below that you can fill in as you read the following passages from the Kitáb-i-Íqán: 3:1-4:6, 5:14-6:9, 43:3-43:13, 68:18-69:3, 105:1-106:2, 118:3-119:2, 120:12-121:2, 171:16-171:20, 192:9-198:22.

Object of Search | How to Search | Obstacles | Rewards

PART III: IMAGES OF THE QUEST (15 minutes)

Bahá’u’lláh uses a number of images—verbal pictures—to describe the search and what is being sought. For example, in the Kitáb-i-Íqán, He describes the process of searching as taking a "step. . . in the path leading to the knowledge of the Ancient of Days" (p. 192). He describes the object of our quest as "the shores of the ocean of true understanding" (p. 3). Bahá’u’lláh uses such familiar images to help us see similarities between the physical world and spiritual reality.

Learning Activities: Go back to your chart and choose one or more images to examine. Spend a few moments thinking about the image(s). What comes to mind when you consider the image(s)? What insights do you get? For example, what does your "path leading to the knowledge of the Ancient of Days" look like? Why would Bahá’u’lláh use the image of a path to describe the process? If you are working in a group, share your insights.

PART IV: TRANSFORMATION (15 minutes)

Walking the pathway of search requires changes in behavior. Although this exercise can be completed in fifteen minutes, personal transformation requires an ongoing, lifelong commitment to evaluating and changing our behavior.

Learning Activities: 1. Go back to your chart, and choose for yourself one or two of Bahá’u’lláh's requirements for the true seeker. How can you meet these requirements? 2. Try to imagine specific instances in which you will use this new behavior, and imagine how you will model it. For example, Bahá’u’lláh states that one "must wash away from the tablet of his heart every trace of pride and vainglory." When are you most likely to feel pride and vainglory? Now imagine yourself in this situation, thinking and acting differently, concentrating on the good qualities of others rather than thinking of your own. 3. Make a chart like the one below, and use it to help complete the exercise. If you feel comfortable sharing, describe your choices to the group.

Requirements | Consequences of Not Searching | Opportunities to Practice | How I Will Practice

FURTHER READING: Bahá’u’lláh, The Seven Valleys and The Four Valleys. In this book Bahá’u’lláh describes the pathway the soul follows in attaining the presence of God. The "Valley of Search" (see pp. 5-8) applies particularly to the lesson completed in this session.

ASSIGNMENT FOR SESSION 3—THE BOOKS ARE UNSEALED (to be published in the November issue along with Session 4—EXPLAINING MAJOR THEMES): While the symbols in the holy books point to the day of resurrection, their meaning is veiled, or sealed, until a specified time. The following assignments will prepare you to study Bahá’u’lláh's explanations of the symbols given in the holy books regarding the long-awaited day of resurrection.

1. Go back to the materials from Session 1 and reread the questions asked by the Báb's uncle, Hájí Mírzá Siyyid Muhammad, especially questions 1 and 3. 2. Look up the definition of "resurrection" in a dictionary. 3. Interview a few of your friends or relatives about their understanding of the term day of resurrection. [Page 11]

Youth share intensive week of study at Louhelen School

On July 21-26, 80 youth and young adults attended a spirited and intensive week of study at the Louhelen Bahá’í School.

In addition to a course on the writings of Shoghi Effendi, taught by Marianne and Changiz Geula, and another on developing appropriate relationships, the week included a course on prayer and meditation taught by international traveling teacher Meherangiz Munsiff.

The classes had a profound effect on the entire conference, and led to a fuller understanding of and dedication to the Faith for most of the participants.

Twelve youth and adults including two local residents and a student from South Africa declared their faith in Bahá’u’lláh during the week.

The spark kindled during this conference became a flame two weeks later at Louhelen's Pre-Youth Conference.

Several of those who had attended the first conference returned as youth counselors. They, and the Louhelen Residential Program students on campus, led many of the classes and discussions and helped convey the spirit, enthusiasm and sense of dedication cultivated at the July conference.

A group of the younger youth wrote this account of the August conference and sent it to the World and National Centers:

"This conference started as a Bahá’í pre-youth conference. But an unusual thing happened when at least 40 youth (and three adults) declared.

"During the classes we learned many vital things about the Faith, such as the importance of our age group teaching others about the Faith. The classes covered Bahá’í history, teaching, reading the Writings, prayer and meditation, and acquiring spiritual attributes.

"During classes, after reading a message from the International Teaching Center to the Counselors, the idea came up to go to nearby malls and downtown areas to teach.

"We planned what we called 'The Unity Dance' and a fireside for the youth and those who came. The success of this venture was two declarations, and many others hearing about the Faith.

"Then, toward the end of the conference on August 15, we had an evaluation session with everyone speaking about how he/she felt about the week.

"It is impossible to express our sincere feelings in mere words. We ended with an uplifting unity prayer which touched our souls.

"We hugged one another and cried to celebrate the love we had discovered for Bahá’u’lláh and the love and unity we felt among ourselves. Many of the youth and pre-youth declared their faith."

Louhelen's fourth Hayden Fellowship to Duane Herrmann

The Robert Hayden Fellowship in Poetry, now in its fourth year and sponsored by the Louhelen Bahá’í School, was awarded this year to Duane L. Herrmann of Berryton, Kansas.

Mr. Herrmann has written two published collections of poetry—Whispers Shouting Glory and Early Poems, as well as articles on poetry and history in Child's Way magazine, Bahá’í News, The American Bahá’í, and the book Circle of Spirit.

While at Louhelen, Mr. Herrmann gave formal and informal readings of his poetry and conducted workshops on writing. He also worked on several manuscripts and new poetry.

In addition, he began work as editor of a collection of poetry to be published in conjunction with the conference in February 1990 on the life and work of Robert Hayden.

Mr. Herrmann's other published titles include Fasting: A Bahá’í Handbook and Ninety Years in Kansas: The Bahá’í Faith, 1897-1987.

He is listed in Who's Who in the U.S.: Writers, Editors and Poets and in the International Authors and Writers Who's Who, 11th edition. He is presently director of the Kansas Bahá’í History Project and has been a Bahá’í since 1969.

U. of Michigan plans major conference on poet Robert Hayden

A major conference on the life and works of Robert Hayden has been planned for next February 22-25 at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.

Mr. Hayden, who was a faculty member at the university at the time of his death in 1980, was a renowned and widely published poet.

Among his many accomplishments was his appointment as poetry consultant to the Library of Congress, a position equivalent to the English poet laureate. He was the first black writer ever named to that position.

In observance of the 10th anniversary of Mr. Hayden's death, the English department at the University, the Midwestern Conference Committee of the Association for Bahá’í Studies, and the Louhelen Bahá’í School have organized a conference of writers, biographers, literary critics, artists and teachers with special events for the general public.

Scheduled as presenters are four of the country's foremost black writers: Gwendolyn Brooks, Rita Dove, Michael J. Harper and Julius Lester.

Literary critics and biographers who plan to take part include Darwin Turner, Eugene Redmond, Houston Baker, Melba Boyd and Pontheolla Williams.

John Hatcher, a scholar and biographer of Mr. Hayden, will present the Bahá’í perspective and influence of Mr. Hayden's work.

In addition to talks, panel discussions and readings, the conference is to include luncheons for high school writing teachers, workshops on writing for high school and university students, archival displays of Mr. Hayden's papers, and an evening of music, drama and dance interpretation of Mr. Hayden's poetry.

Puran Stevens, coordinator of the U.S. Bahá’í Refugee Program, confers with Dr. Bruce Bliatout during her recent visit to Portland, Oregon.

Agencies supporting the conference, which is funded by grants totaling more than $40,000, include the Michigan Council for the Humanities, the Michigan Council for the Arts, Wayne State University, several departments at the University of Michigan, and the Association for Bahá’í Studies.

Additional information is available from the Louhelen Bahá’í School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423.

Stories by and about American Indians to highlight latest issue of Brilliant Star

We thought it would be hard to beat the stupendous September/October issue of Brilliant Star magazine on music, but it has been done. The November/December issue is on American Indians, and it is wonderful.

What makes this issue so riveting is that most of it was written by American Indians including the Parents' Page.

Counselor Jacqueline Delahunt begins the issue with a story about her great-grandfather, "Left Hand Bull's Name." The article, illustrated with photographs, is both informative from an historical point of view and delicately touching from an emotional view.

There's a delightful article about the "T'iis Ii'ahi: The Pine Springs Singers," with text by Lorraine Kahn. Read what the children who comprise this group feel about "the dance and sing."

Of course, no issue about Native Americans would be complete without information about famed sand painter David Villaseñor.

Other selections include a geographical article, "Where the Native Americans Lived"; "The Shining Emblem," as told by Evelyn Watts to Roger White; "Fanny," a story by Mary Jane Litchard that takes place in Alaska; and "The Anasazi: The Riddle in the Ruins," by Connie Vines.

You'll also find information about the Birthday of Bahá’u’lláh, the Ascension of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the Day of the Covenant, and a question-and-answer sheet for Bahá’í children about Christmas.

Don't miss this exciting issue! Tell your friends. Buy gift subscriptions. Do it now! The cost is $12 for six issues or $20 for 12. Send to Subscriber Service, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

GREEN ACRE BAHÁ’Í SCHOOL 1989 FALL PROGRAM

Children's program provided unless otherwise stated. All sessions are open to the entire Bahá’í community.

Session 17, October 13-15. Conference on Teaching Blacks.—Facilitators and speakers to include Auxiliary Board member James Sturdivant, Marianne Geula, Dr. Richard Thomas, Dr. William Smith.

Session 18, October 20-22. Conference on Teaching Hispanics.—Sessions in Spanish on mass teaching, transformation, and the Kitáb-i-lqán (English translations available) by Counselor Arturo Serrano; Pablo Lucas, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly of Mexico; and Jeanne Serrano.

Session 19, October 27-29. Pioneer Training Institute.—Registration is through the Office of Pioneering. For more information, please contact that office at the Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, phone 312-869-9039. No child care/classes provided.

Session 20, November 3-5. Teacher Training Institute.—Special workshops by the National Teaching Committee will center on the development of a core curriculum for Bahá’í education in the U.S. (as requested by the Universal House of Justice), uses of NBEC's new catalog of educational materials, standards and criteria for future development, and innovative implementation of Bahá’í educational programs.

Session 21, November 24-26. Community Development.—Communities and Groups are encouraged to send at least two representatives to take part in sessions facilitated by Auxiliary Board member James Sturdivant and Anna Lee Strasburg of the national Office of Community Administration.

Session 22, December 24-30. Enjoying Family Unity.—Marriage and family therapist Hank Wich and teacher/counselor Ginger Wich will conduct a special family workshop using a blend of conceptual, informational and experiential activities amidst a week of recreational, devotional and consultative experiences designed to create an atmosphere in which new and enriching patterns of family interaction can be formed.

For more information, please write to the Registrar, Green Acre Bahá’í School, 188 Main St., Eliot, ME 03903, or phone 207-439-7200.

Portland changes date of conference

The date for the Vision to Victory conference in Portland, Oregon, has been changed—from April 6-8 to March 30-April 1, 1990.

The contact person for more information is Wesley Gold, Tigard, OR 97223 (phone 503-684-6377).

Laotlan Bahá’í discusses ways to help Aslan refugees adjust to new life In U.S.

Among the Bahá’ís of Southeast Asian origin who have settled in the Portland, Oregon, area is Dr. Bruce Bliatout (Thao Pao), who has a Ph.D in mental health services management.

Dr. Bliatout, who is originally from Laos (a Hmong), spent several years as a university student and mental health practitioner in Hawaii before settling in Portland. He presently works for the Multnomah County government and travels extensively to conduct workshops on Hmong culture.

During a recent visit with Puran Stevens, coordinator of the U.S. Bahá’í refugee program, Dr. Bliatout explained that Southeast Asian refugees face three major obstacles when coming to the U.S.: the language barrier, cultural diferences, and a lack of job opportunities that can provide sufficient income for their often large families.

In recent years, according to Dr. Bliatout, about 60 percent of the Southeast Asian refugees in the Portland area have been able to buy homes, mostly by pooling their incomes.

This economic interdependency of relatives in Southeast Asian communities is a practical aspect of their family-oriented philosophy.

Dr. Bliatout had some suggestions and observations that he felt would facilitate the process of reaching out to Southeast Asian Bahá’í refugees in the U.S.:

Invite Southeast Asian Bahá’í youth and their parents to take part in local social and economic development programs.

Hold leadership training workshops for Southeast Asian Bahá’í youth.

Familiarize the parents and children with the American educational system.

In general, take a slow and steady approach with Southeast Asian refugees, through regular friendship visits.

Seek the approval of the local clan leader before involving a Southeast Asian community in any activity. [Page 12]

CLASSIFIEDS

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

PIONEERING (OVERSEAS)

AGRICULTURISTS are sought for international fresh fruit production and trade based in Hong Kong with future possibilities in mainland China. For information, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

OVERSEAS jobs: Americas-Barbados: retired individual/couple to establish and organize the National Assembly archives. Honduras: lab technician for two-three month medical aid project. Multi-regional: attorneys for legal department of international finance corporation; investment adviser to government of the Federated States of Micronesia. Also, the U.S. State Department is recruiting for several specialist positions involving overseas assignment: secretaries, Foreign Service construction engineers, building and maintenance specialists, security engineering officers, support communications officers, systems managers, financial management officers, medical technologists, nurses, and physicians. For information about any of these positions, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

PIONEERING (HOMEFRONT)

THE Bahá’í Group of Lakeport, California, needs six homefront pioneers to help restore the first Assembly in Lake County. Lakeport (pop. 5,000), 110 miles north of San Francisco, 80 miles from the ocean, is situated on Clear Lake, the largest lake in California, and surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards, orchards, fertile valleys; the climate is ideal, the air clean. Perfect for families or retirees. All possible assistance offered to help you relocate. Please contact the Bahá’í Group of Lakeport, Lakeport, CA 95453; phone 707-263-6555 or 707-263-1567.

ARCHIVES

THE NATIONAL Bahá’í Archives is seeking, at the request of the Universal House of Justice, original letters written on behalf of the Guardian to the following individuals: Hilbert and Meta Dahl (died Royal Oaks, MI, 1967, 1978), Corinne Darmour, Priscilla Daubenkropf, Mabelle Davis (died Detroit, MI, 1962), Katherine R. De Desdier, Paul De La Croix, Elsa Tudor de Pierrefeau, and Wandeyne Deuth. Anyone knowing family members or friends who might have these letters from the Guardian are asked to contact the National Bahá’í Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

THE NATIONAL Bahá’í Archives has available free information sheets on local Assembly records and personal papers in local archives and on oral history guidelines. Any Assemblies or individuals wishing to have copies of these information sheets are asked to contact the National Bahá’í Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

THE Bahá’í International Community is looking for an accountant for its office in New York City. Experience required. Please send resumé and background information to Dorothy Longo, Operations Officer, Bahá’í International Community, 866 United Nations Plaza, Suite 120, New York, NY 10017.

OPPORTUNITY to serve the Faith as administrative assistant at the Bahá’í Center in Chicago—four to five hours a day, Monday through Friday; flexible hours, no more than 20 hours per week. Among the skills needed: typing, composing letters, word processing, record-keeping, filing, and handling telephone calls with courtesy and wisdom. Write to: Chicago Bahá’í Center, Chicago, IL 60616, attention: Secretariat, or phone 312-225-1919 weekdays between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. (CST).

YOUTH

IN JANUARY 1984 the Universal House of Justice addressed a message to the Bahá’í youth of the world, calling on them to arise. The Supreme Body urged that "while still young and unburdened by family responsibilities, you give attention to the idea of volunteering a set period, say, one or two years to some Bahá’í service, on the homefront or abroad, in the teaching or development field." In response to this, the Bahá’í Youth Service Corps came into being. Should you be interested in heeding this call to service, please contact the Youth Desk at the National Teaching Office, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039, ext. 237.

MISCELLANEOUS

RETREAT: made available within San Diego County North J.D. by a retired Bahá’í couple for use by Bahá’ís for workshops, seminars, retreats, and/or schools. Included are six bedrooms, volleyball and tennis courts, gym, indoor swimming pool, home theatre, organic orchards and gardens. This is a place to renew, unwind, recharge and enrich one's knowledge, dedication and capacity. For information, write to the San Diego North Bahá’í School Planning Committee, P.O. Box 1564, San Marcos, CA 92069, or phone 619-744-8448 (Fax No. 619-744-8228).

La Fe Bahai Bahai Faith UNIDAD MUNDIAL PAZ MUNDIAL WORLD UNITY WORLD PEACE

The hispanic and Spanish-speaking Bahá’ís in south Florida have held picnics recently in a number of public parks, inviting the public to join them. Some refugee families from Nicaragua and El Salvador have attended the picnics, and some are now attending firesides in some of the Bahá’í communities.

Many opportunities for service at Bahá’í National Center

The Department of Human Resources at the Bahá’í National Center is seeking qualified persons for the following positions:

Administrative consultant, Office of Community Administration. Responsible for guiding and helping Bahá’í institutions, agencies, Groups and individuals with matters pertaining to Bahá’í laws or principles, responds to letters and phone calls from his/her assigned geographical area and prepares background data on personal status cases, helps department head prepare reports for the National Spiritual Assembly. Qualifications: a sharp and analytical mind, a high sense of confidentiality, ability to write clearly and concisely, strong background in English, ability to turn over a high volume of work on a timely basis, typing ability, and a profound knowledge of the Bahá’í teachings.

Assistant controller, Office of the Treasurer. Performs general accounting, helps with planned automation of financial and other functional programs, maintains general ledger, reconciles bank statements, prepares monthly financial statements, works directly with controller. Qualifications: BS in accounting, two-three years relevant experience, ability to use Lotus 1-2-3, ability to read financial spread sheets.

Refugee program assistant, U.S. Bahá’í Refugee Office. Helps administer the refugee settlement program under the supervision of the U.S. Bahá’í Refugee Program coordinator; corresponds with refugees, sponsors, Bahá’í and non-Bahá’í agencies involved in refugee resettlement; responds to telephone and personal inquiries; maintains program files, manual and electronic; prepares and sends E-mail, telexes and cables; prepares reports; performs other assigned tasks related to the refugee program. Qualifications: good communication skills in English (Persian is desirable), strong organizational skills and a good eye for detail, ability to work under pressure. Some familiarity with Persian and Southeast Asian cultures is desirable.

Program assistant/translator, Persian/American Affairs Office. Translates, writes and types, responds to correspondence in English and Persian, helps prepare Persian pages in The American Bahá’í, helps authenticate credentials of Persian Bahá’ís, maintains Persian credential files in Persian and English. Qualifications: excellent oral and written skills in Persian and English; ability to perform detailed, precise work under pressure; English and Persian typing (40 wpm), ability and willingness to learn word processing, familiarity with Iranian culture and etiquette. Must have good understanding of Bahá’í teachings, principles and laws as practiced in Iran and the U.S.

Teaching coordinator/Hispanic Desk/new believers and inquiries, National Teaching Committee Office. Stimulates and develops all efforts related to teaching; corresponds with District Teaching Committees, local Spiritual Assemblies, Auxiliary Board members, Groups and individuals from an assigned geographical area; responds to inquiries and phone calls about teaching; gathers information to implement effective teaching strategies; helps Assemblies create breakthroughs in teaching, and performs other tasks related to teaching. Must also be familiar with and sensitive to the needs of the Hispanic population, and must be able to read, write and converse in Spanish. Must be able to respond to questions and a high volume of correspondence about the Faith from seekers. Qualifications: ability to consult and work well with groups, effective communication skills, both oral and written, ability to plan, organize and prioritize one's own work, proven fluency in Spanish, general office skills, ability and willingness to learn word processing, an understanding of Bahá’í administrative principles and teachings, ability to interact with people of diverse cultural backgrounds, strong personal desire to teach and be a part of "entry by troops."

Mail services assistant, Management Information Services. Performs all duties that pertain to mail services; processes incoming and outgoing mail, UPS, Federal Express, SKY PAC and postal express mail; helps with shipping and receiving, and performs other services related to mail operations. Qualifications: ability to obtain a valid Illinois driver's license, ability and willingness to learn to operate Pitney-Bowes mailing machines, good aptitude for numbers; must be able to read.

Building maintenance worker, NSA Properties. Performs all phases of building maintenance at the House of Worship. Qualifications: experience in tuckpointing, caulking and concrete repairs; familiarity with all areas of electrical, plumbing and mechanical maintenance; ability to coordinate maintenance work and other duties related to maintenance as assigned.

Administrative aide/District Convention coordinator, Office of the Secretary. Helps in all phases of planning and coordinating District Conventions, produces reports as requested, maintains data base on District Convention plans, oversees Convention financing by reviewing proposed budget forms and financial report forms, maintains well-organized files on all aspects of Convention planning, evaluates and provides delegate apportionment information to the National Assembly periodically. Qualifications: two years office experience, strong organizational skills, ability to coordinate a high volume of detailed information, strong clerical skills including typing 50 wpm, excellent written and oral communication skills, ability and willingness to learn word processing.

Associate editor, Bahá’í Publishing Trust. Assists the general editor in editing and reprinting of Bahá’í writings and in developing compilations and other presentations of the Bahá’í writings in pursuit of the publishing, teaching and consolidation goals developed by the managers and trustees of the Publishing Trust; helps develop strategy for the publication of Bahá’í writings and compilations suitable for the Trust's program including recruiting compilers, preparing proposals for new projects, and drafting author-publisher contracts in consultation with the general editor; helps evaluate and critique new titles/projects on an ongoing basis; helps obtain reader critiques and prepare for publishing planning meetings or periodic reviews; helps prepare feasibility studies for new and backlist titles, making sure adequate information is available to the marketing department; edits assigned manuscripts by checking for grammatical accuracy, spelling, style and the like, and performs other tasks as assigned. Qualifications: two years of editorial experience, a deep and thorough understanding of Bahá’í concepts, principles and teachings, a curious and analytical mind, bachelor's degree, demonstrable expertise in language skills, and in writing letters, editing, handling difficult authors by letter or phone; typing and computer skills at a minimum of 50 wpm.

Administrative assistant, NSA Properties Inc. Performs administrative duties of basic to moderate difficulty for the project manager, director of operations, and general manager; assumes secretarial duties in the absence of the secretary; records purchase orders, contracts and ongoing accounts with contractors, consultants or suppliers; maintains budget and expenditures; processes payments, bookkeeps of accounts payable and petty cash; processes all correspondence; helps throughout construction or maintenance project including: "close-out," filing of "as-builts," specifications, maintenance and operations manuals, OSHA requirements and other related materials; arranges travel and meetings. Qualifications: proficiency in performance of administrative duties in a mature, efficient and professional manner, familiarity with terms and processes used in construction or maintenance industry, ability to communicate assigned tasks with a high level of understanding to outside consultants, strong organizational skills, capacity to maintain precision in a multiplicity of tasks, construction or property maintenance experience preferred, general office skills necessary including ability to learn word processing.

Property caretaker/maintenance worker, Native American Bahá’í Institute (NABI). Oversees and maintains Institute property and serves as resident caretaker. Work includes planning, scheduling, supervision and performing maintenance and construction work, security and hospitality responsibilities. Qualifications: successful experience in construction and maintenance work and management; mastery of a wide range of procedures related to construction and maintenance; physical mobility, endurance and manual dexterity; ability to live and work in rural Navajo cultural setting; ability to diagnose maintenance problems and devise solutions including working sketches, materials estimates, ordering and purchasing, trade licenses and certificates. Due to the unique nature and location of the Institute, Navajo or other American Indian applicants are preferred. Other requirements and conditions: on-campus housing and utilities are provided as in-kind benefits; this position is considered regular/full-time with partial volunteer status; regular work schedules with flex-time as needed. Other requirements and conditions to be discussed at interview.

Assistant cook, Bosch Bahá’í School. Regular/full-time position September through June; helps in kitchen during breakfast hours, helps plan and cook meals for 40-60 people, performs maintenance and clean-up work in the kitchen area.

Interested applicants may send their resumés to Bahá’í National Center, Department of Human Resources, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039, ext. 265 for an application. [Page 13]

راهنمای مطالعه کتاب ایقان

KITAB-I IQAN STUDY GUIDE

چنانکه دوستان عزیز استحضار دارند، یکی از اهداف نقشه شش ساله "بسط برنامه‌های تربیت اطفال و جوانان و بزرگسالان درباره تاریخ و تعالیم امر مبارک" و "ازدیاد مطالعه منظم آثار امری مابین جوانان" است. محفل روحانی ملی به منظور نیل به این هدف تعدادی از آثار مبارکه را انتخاب نموده و یاران را به مطالعه دقیق آن آثار در طی مدت باقیمانده نقشه دعوت فرموده است. در سال جاری کتاب مستطاب "ایقان" مورد انتخاب محفل روحانی ملی قرار گرفته است.

چنانکه عزیزان بهائی آگاهی دارند، کتاب "ایقان" از مهم‌ترین آثار حضرت بهاءالله است. در سال ۱۲۷۸ هـ. ق. که حضرت بهاءالله در بغداد تشریف داشتند، جناب میر سید محمد ملقب به "خال اکبر" که به عزم زیارت عتبات مقدسه وارد بغداد شده بود، به حضور مبارک مشرف شد و درباره ظهور حضرت اعلی سؤالاتی از محضر مبارک نمود. کتاب "ایقان" در جواب سؤالات مشارالیه در دو شبانه روز از قلم جمال قدم نازل گردید.

برخی از مطالبی که در این کتاب مستطاب مورد شرح و تبیین حضرت بهاءالله قرار گرفته عبارت است از: علامات ظهور موعود، مسألهٔ خاتم‌النبیین، قیامت کبری، رجعت پیغمبر و ائمه اطهار، لقاءالله در قیامت، حشر و نشر و قیامت و... کتاب "ایقان" به فرموده حضرت ولی امرالله مهیب‌ترین اثر حضرت بهاءالله بعد از کتاب "اقدس" است.

محفل روحانی ملی به منظور تسهیل قرائت این کتاب از چند تن از احباء درخواست نموده که راهنمای مطالعه‌ای برای آن تهیه نمایند. این راهنما که از این شماره در "امریکن بهائی" در ۴ قسمت منتشر خواهد شد، مشتمل بر شرح مطالب دشوار کتاب است و جهت استفاده شخصی و گروهی یاران بسیار مفید خواهد بود.

بیت‌العدل اعظم الهی در پیام رضوان سال ۱۹۸۹ فرموده‌اند: "اگر چه اعلان عمومی شریعت الهی امری لازم است اما به تنهایی کافی نیست. ازدیاد تعداد سجلین هر چند ضروری است اما نباید تنها به آن اکتفاء رود. نفوس باید به کلی تقلیب شوند و بدینوسیله اساس جوامع امری استحکام یابد و در نتیجه مثال و نمونه‌های جدیدی از حیات بهائی به منصه ظهور رسد... تقلیب روحانی افراد هدف اصلی امر جمال قدم است... و لازمه حصول این تقلیب که حیات آدمی را بارور می‌سازد، علم به اراده و مقصود الهی از طریق مطالعه منظم آثار مبارکه است."

محفل روحانی ملی مطمئن است که راهنمای مذکور و سایر راهنماهایی که برای دیگر آثار مبارکه تهیه خواهد شد، یاران را در فهم و درك بهتر آثار مبارکه مساعدت خواهد نمود.

موسسه بهائی رفع تعصبات

BAHÁ’Í INSTITUTE FOR HEALING RACISM

احبای شهر هیوستون تگزاس با الهام از دارالتبلیغ بین‌المللی مؤسسه‌ای به نام "مؤسسه رفع تعصبات نژادی" The Bahá’í Institute for the Healing of Racism تأسیس نموده‌اند.

اولین جلسه این مؤسسه در روزهای ۲-۳ سپتامبر سال جاری تشکیل گردید و دو تن از احبای شهر ویلمت ایالت ایلینوی برنامه‌ای در مورد تعصبات نژادی ارائه نمودند.

شرکت کنندگان در این جلسه عبارت بودند از ۹ نفر سیاهپوست، ۹ نفر ایرانی، يك نفر آمریکایی چینی، يك نفر آمریکایی ژاپنی، يك نفر پورتوریکوئی، دو نفر از نیکاراگوئه و ۲۸ نفر آمریکایی سفیدپوست.

شرکت کنندگان در این برنامه آن را تجربه‌ای انسانی خواندند که به حضار اجازه داد با صراحت و بدون تکلف در مورد مسائل مربوط به نژاد محبت کنند.

از نامه‌های یاران

A PLEA FOR MASS TEACHING

جناب نصرالله واحدی در ضمن نامه‌ای که حاوی پیشنهادهای گوناگونی در زمینه تقدم امر مهم تبلیغ بود، چند نمونه از آثار نظم خود را نیز فرستاده‌اند که قسمتی از یکی از قطعات ایشان درج می‌گردد:

منصوروار گفتند عشاق بر سر دار دانی جهان چه خواهد؟ تبلیغ دسته جمعی این درد را چه کاهد؟ تبلیغ دسته جمعی یاران ما در ایران هستند کنج زندان اقرار کن که دارده بر این کلام اقرار دانی جهان چه خواهد؟ تبلیغ دسته جمعی این درد را چه کاهد؟ تبلیغ دسته جمعی ای دوستان نباید هرگز ز کم سخن گفت کم‌ها چه جمع گردند با هم شوند بسیار دانی جهان چه خواهد؟ تبلیغ دسته جمعی این درد را چه کاهد؟ تبلیغ دسته جمعی هر جا که دوستانند، ورپای بوستانند با "واحدی" بخوانند این بیت را به تکرار دانی جهان چه خواهد؟ تبلیغ دسته جمعی این درد را چه کاهد؟ تبلیغ دسته جمعی

رفتار نمونه يك نوجوان بهائی

EXEMPLARY CONDUCT

رفتار نمونه يك نوجوان ۱۴ ساله بهائی به نام مهین روت Mahin Root توجه رسانه‌های گروهی را به خود معطوف نموده است.

هنگامی که خانم برتا روت، مادر مهین به همراه او جهت ثبت نام به دبیرستانی در ایالت کارولینای جنوبی مراجعه کردند، از مهین خواسته شد که اوراق لازم را تکمیل نماید. یکی از مواردی که باید جواب داده می‌شد، نژاد مهین بود.

مادر مهین سیاهپوست و پدرش سفیدپوست است. اما در ورقه‌ای که به مهین داده شده بود، تنها ۵ مقوله وجود داشت که عبارت بود از: سرخپوست، زردپوست، اسپانیولی زبان، سیاهپوست و سفیدپوست. بنابراین مهین قسمت مربوط به نژاد را خالی گذاشت. اما مسؤولان مدرسه به او گفتند که باید یکی از پنج نژاد را انتخاب کند. در این موقع مهین گفت: "نژاد من مختلط است، نمی‌توانم یکی را بدون انکار دیگری انتخاب کنم!"

مادر مهین نیز چنین افزود: "تنها يك نژاد وجود دارد و آن هم نژاد انسان است. ما معتقد به وحدت عالم انسانییم."

در ابتدا اولیای مدرسه اظهار داشتند که اگر ورقه کاملاً تکمیل نشود، از ثبت نام مهین جلوگیری خواهند کرد، اما بعداً دفتر نژاد خود را تغییر داده و مراتب را به "دفتر حقوق بشر" دولت جهت کسب تکلیف گزارش دادند.

مسؤولان آن دفتر اظهار داشتند که کامپیوتر آن اداره فقط یکی از پنج نژاد را قبول می‌کند. مهین در پاسخ گفت: "می‌دانم که به اطلاعات راجع به نژاد احتیاج دارید، اما اطلاعات شما باید دقیق باشد."

اختلاف نظر و بحثی که در گرفته بود، در یکی از روزنامه‌های محلی و نیز مجله معروف "تایم" منعکس شد. همچنین شبکه رادیوی ملی آمریکا National Public Radio که شبکه‌ای غیرتجاری و غیرانتفاعی است، مصاحبه‌ای با مهین به عمل آورد. علاوه بر این مهین مقاله‌ای درباره وحدت عالم انسانی نوشت که در یکی از روزنامه‌های محلی به چاپ رسید.

تمامی اشتهاری که این موضوع برای امر مبارک در آمریکا ایجاد نمود، نتیجه استواری نوجوان پاك دلی بر اعتقادات خود بود.

اخبار دفتر امین صندوق ملی

NEWS FROM NATIONAL TREASURER’S OFFICE

حضرت ولی امرالله فرموده‌اند که یکی از علائم سلامت روحانی تشکیلات امری ایجاد و حفظ ارتباط احباء و نمایندگان منتخب آنان است. بدین جهت دفتر صندوق ملی در صدد است که چهار مرتبه در سال گزارشی از اقدامات خود را به استحضار احباء برساند. ذیلاً خلاصه‌ای از اولین گزارش دفتر صندوق ملی درج می‌گردد:

در چند ماه گذشته چهار کارمند جدید به جای همکارانی که قبلاً در دفتر امین صندوق ملی خدمت می‌نمودند، مشغول به کار شده‌اند.

از جمله آقای جمشید آشچیان که قبلاً در ایالت ماساچوست زندگی می‌کرد و سمت حسابدار ممیز دفتر را به عهده دارند و نیز آقای بیژن بیضائی که در قسمت وصول تبرعات خدمت می‌کنند.

بنا به هدایت محفل روحانی ملی اقدامات جدیدی در مورد اداره امور مالی جامعه امری به مرحله اجراء گذاشته شده است. این اقدامات سالانه مبلغ یکصد هزار دلار از مخارج محفل خواهد کاست. بر اثر صرفه‌جوئی‌هایی که به عمل آمده، چهارصد هزار دلار از قرض محفل ملی کاسته شده و بیش از سیصد و سی هزار دلار به بیت‌العدل اعظم ارسال گردیده است.

همچنین مشاورات مکثفی با متخصصان امور کامپیوتری محفل روحانی ملی را بر آن داشته است که به تدریج امکانات کامپیوتر اصلی دفتر محفل ملی توسعه داده شود تا از تأثیرهای ناشی از فرسودگی دستگاه جلو گیری شود.

دفتر صندوق ملی از یاران عزیز تقاضا دارد که پیشنهادهای خود را در مورد بهبود امور اداره مالی امر مبارک در ایالات متحده با مسؤولان دفتر صندوق ملی در میان گذارند.

استمداد از احبای ایرانی

CALL FOR HELP

جناب ع. صادقیان که از احبای مقیم آلمانند نامه‌ای به دفتر امور احبای ایرانی/آمریکایی ارسال داشته‌اند که عین آن نقل می‌شود:

"برای تدوین و انتشار مجموعه آثار شهید سعید جناب بدیع‌الله فرید اعلی الله مقامه به آخرین اثر ایشان، رساله "عرفان و عمل" که در اواخر سال ۱۳۵۷ شمسی در تهران منتشر شد، احتیاج داریم.

از احبای عزیزی که این رساله را در اختیار دارند، استدعا می‌شود يك نسخه چاپی یا فتوکپی رساله فوق‌الذکر را به آدرس ذیل ارسال فرمایند. هر گاه نسخه چاپی را ارسال فرمودید، ظرف يك هفته عیناً جهت فرستنده عودت داده خواهد شد. از مساعدت شما کمال امتنان حاصل است."

E. Sadeghian 61-Darmstadt, West Germany

برنامه تبلیغی ۹۹

PROJECT 99

احبای جنوب مرکزی ایالت فلوریدا در پاسخ به صلای بیت‌العدل اعظم در خصوص ازدیاد تعداد تازه تصدیقان يك پروژه تبلیغی با عنوان "برنامه ۹۹" طرح نموده‌اند. هدف این برنامه تبلیغ ۹۹ نفر در عرض ۹ هفته است.

بیش از هزار نفر از احباء در اجرای برنامه مذکور شرکت کرده‌اند. تا اواخر ماه آگست ۶۶ نفر به امر حضرت بهاءالله اقبال نموده بودند و برنامه‌های منظمی نیز در مورد ترشيح معلومات تازه تصدیقان توسط یکی از احباء دائر گردیده است. مطالبی که در زیر درج می‌شود، شرحی درباره این برنامه تبلیغی است که توسط یکی از مساعدین نوشته شده است:

"چند یکی از احباء در آن ناحیه (اطراف دریاچه اوکی چوبی Okeechobee) تجربیاتی در زمینه تبلیغ داشت، از او پرسیدم که آیا می‌توانیم در پائیز امسال به شهرک‌های اطراف دریاچه برویم و تبلیغ کنیم؟ او در جواب گفت می‌توانیم همین امسال تابستان این برنامه را آغاز کنیم.

اولین گروه در ۸ جولای عازم شد. اولین شهرک گلدن ویلیج Golden Village نام داشت. همه خانه‌ها طلائی رنگ بود و ۱۱ نفس نورانی نیز در انتظار شنیدن پیام حضرت بهاءالله بودند. دوستم به من گفت "بیا هر شنبه به این شهرك برویم و با هر سفر ۱۱ نفر را تبلیغ کنیم." هر دو قبول کردیم و به این ترتیب نطفه "برنامه تبلیغی ۹۹" بسته شد.

عده‌ای از احبای عزیزی که ساکن آن نواحی هستند، خانه‌هایشان را به روی شرکت کنندگان این برنامه تبلیغی باز کرده‌اند. هر مانعی که وجود داشت، خواه گرمای سخت تابستان یا باران و غیره در مقایسه با یافتن این جواهر انسانی که مایل به قبول امر مبارک بودند، پر طرف می‌شد و هیچ به نظر نمی‌آمد.

اولین جلسه ترشيح معلومات در ۲۹ جولای گرفته شد. ۱۰ نفر تازه تصدیق حضور داشتند ولی هدف ما ۱۱ نفر بود. دست به دعا شدم و از حضرت بهاءالله خواستم که کمکی کند. در همین وقت یکی صدایم کرد و گفت خانمی دم در است و با تو کار دارد. چهره‌ای نورانی دیدم که مایل بود کارت تسجیل را امضاء کند و به سایر دوستان بپیوندد... حضرت بهاءالله این نفس نورانی را جهت تکمیل اهداف ما فرستاده بود..."

امکانات خدمت در دفتر محفل ملی

SERVICE AT BAHÁ’Í NATIONAL CENTER

دفتر امور پناهندگان به يك کارمند تمام وقت احتیاج دارد. شرح وظایف عبارت است از: كمك به اداره برنامه اسکان پناهندگان، مکاتبه با پناهندگان و متکفلین آنها و مؤسسات بهائی و غیربهائی در رابطه با اسکان پناهندگان، جواب به تلفن و سؤالات ارباب رجوع، بایگانی پرونده‌های پناهندگان، تهیه و ارسال مراسلات الکترونیکی و تلکس و تلگراف، تهیه گزارش‌ها و انجام سایر کارهای محوله.

شرایط استخدام: آشنایی کامل با زبان انگلیسی و فنون ارتباطات، آشنایی با فنون اداری، دقت در اجرای وظائف و توانائی به کار تحت فشار. آشنائی با فرهنگ ایرانی یا فرهنگ‌های جنوب شرقی آسیا مرجح است.

همچنین دفتر امور احبای ایرانی/آمریکایی به يك کارمند تمام وقت نیاز دارد. شرح وظایف عبارت است از: ترجمه و تحریر و تایپ به زبان فارسی و انگلیسی، كمك به تهیه صفحات فارسی "امریکن بهائی"، كمك به تأیید مدارك احبای ایرانی، بایگانی پرونده و انجام سایر کارهای محوله.

شرایط استخدام: آشنایی کامل با زبان فارسی و انگلیسی (محاوره و تحریر)، توانائی به انجام کار تحت شرایط دشوار، تایپ به زبان انگلیسی و فارسی (حد اقل ۴۰ کلمه در دقیقه)، علاقه و تمایل به آموختن برنامه‌های واژه پردازی کامپیوتری، آشنائی با آداب و فرهنگ ایرانی، آشنائی کامل با اصول و تعالیم و احکام امری.

علاقه‌مندان می‌توانند جهت کسب اطلاعات بیشتر با دفترهای مذکور یا اداره پرسنل دفتر محفل ملی تماس حاصل نمایند. تلفن: ۹۰۳۹-۸۶۹ (۳۱۲) داخلی ۲۵۰.

پوسترهای مشرق الاذکار هندوستان

لجنه ملی امور احبای ایرانی/آمریکایی پوسترهایی رنگی در دو اندازه مختلف از مشرق‌الاذکار هندوستان تهیه نموده است. قیمت پوسترهای کوچک (۱۷x۱۱ اینچ) با بسته‌بندی ۱۰ دلار و بدون بسته بندی ۹ دلار، و قیمت پوسترهای بزرگ (۲۸x۲۲ اینچ) با بسته بندی ۱۵ دلار و بدون بسته بندی ۱۴ دلار است. عایدات حاصل از فروش این پوسترها صرف مخارج پناهندگان بهائی خواهد شد.

علاقه‌مندان می‌توانند جهت خریداری پوسترها با نشانی زیر تماس حاصل نمایند. تلفن: ۹۰۱۹-۹۹۹ (۸۰۰).

Bahá’í Distribution Service 415 Linden Ave. Wilmette, IL. 60091 [Page 14]

پیام محفل روحانی ملی

NSA MESSAGE FOR THE FEAST OF MASHÍYYAT ترجمه پیام محفل روحانی ملی ایالات متحده به مناسبت ضیافت شهرالمشیة ۱۴۶ بدیع ۲۷ سپتامبر ۱۹۸۹ خطاب به جامعه بهائی ایالات متحده

ياران عزيز بهائی، در سحرها هنگام مناجات از آستان جمال اقدس ابهی می‌طلبیم که این "ذباب" را بذل به "عقاب" فرماید، ارواح را پرواز حشمت نماید و نیرو و بصیرتی جدید عنایت کند. به تضرع تأیيداتش را می‌جوئیم تا در سبیل تحقق اهداف کنونی و تکمیل اجراءات عظیمه‌ای که بر عهده ما نهاده شده، موفق گردیم. از جمله آن اهداف تقلیب و تحول حیات روحانی این ملت است و تکمیل عامه ملکوت الهی بر فراز جبل کرمل و تخلق به اخلاق رحمانی تا وسیله هدایت بندگان خدا شویم. این وظائف و مسؤولیت‌ها مافوق طاقت و توانائی ما می‌نماید. از خود می‌پرسیم که آیا نیرو و توان روحانی، انضباط و روح فداکاری و ایثار لازم برای موفقیت در این راه را داریم؟

آنچه می‌تواند این نگرانی را تسکین بخشد اتکاء و اتکال به تأیيدات جمال مبارک است. بدون شك ما کوچکتر و ضعیف‌تر از آنیم که به تنهائی در این راه توفیق حاصل کنیم، ولکن قادر متعال امثال ما را وسیله تحقق مشیت خود قرار می‌دهد. این است که در آغاز هر روز تقلیب و تحول تمامی وجود خود را به دعا طالبیم تا شاید برکات و اثرات روح القدس در جميع اعمال و رفتار ما ظاهر و متجلی گردد.

با گذشت هر روز کوشش می‌کنیم تا افکار خود را حول مثل اعلای آئین رحمانی، حضرت عبدالبهاء متمرکز نمائیم و آنچنان باشیم که فرموده است:

"هر نفسی از احبای الهی باید فکر را در این عصر نماید که رحمت پروردگار باشد و موهبت آمرزگار. به هر نفسی رسد خیری بنماید و نفعی برساند و سبب تحسین اخلاق گردد و تعديل افکار... فقیزان را کنز غنا گردید و مریضان را درمان و شفا. معین هر مظلومی باشید و مجير هر محروم. در فکر آن باشید که خدمت به هر نفسی از نوع بشر نمائيد و به اعراض و انکار و استکبار و ظلم و عدوان اهمیت ندهید و اعتنا نکنید... تا نور هدایت تایید و موهبت حضرت رحمانی احاطه نماید...."

با تقديم تحيات حاره محفل روحانی ملی ایالات متحده منشی: رابرت سی هندرسن امین صندوق: ویلیام ای دیویس

آمار تبرعات به صندوق ملی تا آخر شهرالاسماء ۱۴۶ بدیع (۷ سپتامبر ۱۹۸۹)

هدف سالانه برای سال مالی جاری:	۸/۵ میلیون دلار
هدف ماهانه:	۷۰۸/۳۳۳ دلار
تبرعات واصله در شهرالاسماء:	۳۷۸/۱۸۶ دلار
سهمیه هدف سالانه از اول سال تا انتهای شهر الاسماء:	۳/۵ میلیون دلار
تبرعات واصله از اول سال تا انتهای شهرالاسماء:	۲/۶۴۶/۵۷۲ دلار
کسر بودجه:	۸۵۳/۴۲۸ دلار
هدف سالانه تبرعات جهت ترمیم مشرق الاذکار:	يك ميليون دلار
هدف سالانه تبرعات جهت تکمیل ابنیه ارض اقدس:	۲ میلیون دلار
مشارکت فرموده اند:	۸/۰۰۷ نفر
عده مشترکین جدید سیستم تبرع مستقیم از حساب بانکی:
محافل محلی و جمعیتهای بهائی:	۲۱۲
افراد احباء:	۱۸۵

نامه احبای ایران خطاب به محفل روحانی ملی ایالات متحده

LETTER FROM BAHÁ’ÍS OF IRAN

چندی پیش یکی از یاران آمریکائی، آقای جک پاور Jack Bower که از خبر آزادی اکثر احبای ایران بسیار خوشحال شده بود، نامه‌ای خطاب به یاران مهد امرالله نگاشت و مراتب سرور خود را از آزادی آن محنت کشیدگان اظهار داشت. یاران ایران نیز در پاسخ این عواطف لطیف نامه‌ای خطاب به محفل روحانی ملی ایالات متحده نگاشته و ارسال داشته‌اند. متن اصلی این نامه به زبان انگلیسی نوشته شده است. جهت اطلاع عزيزان ایرانی ترجمه فارسی آن نامه در زیر نقل می‌شود:

خطاب به محفل مقدس ملی ایالات متحده مورخ ۱۹ شهرالرحمة ۱۴۶ بدیع مطابق ۳۱ جولای ۱۹۸۹ ای یاران عزیز و محبوب، قصه لیلی مخوان و غصه مجنون عشق تو منسوخ کرد ذکر اوائل نام تو معرفت عاشقان بخشیدند هر دو به رقص آمدند سامع و قائل

قلم عاجز است و زبان قاصر که چگونه از نامه مشکین شمامه آن عزيزان مورخ ۳۰ آپریل سال ۱۹۸۹ که حاکی از اظهار رضایت و مسرت از تقلیل ابتلاات و آزادی خواهران و برادران ستمدیده در مهد امرالله بود، سپاسگزاری نمائیم.

فی‌الحقیقه این استخلاص و تقلیل بلایا همانا در اثر مساعی عالیه بیت‌العدل اعظم الهی شیدالله ارکانه و مجاهدات حمیمه مستمره آن محفل مقدس و ادعیه حاره احباء در سراسر جهان صورت گرفته است.

به راستی مرقومه پر شور آن محفل مقدس به همراه مکاتیب سایر یاران مانند رقیمه رشیده‌ای که جناب جک پاور رقم زده و نسخه‌ای از آن را دارالانشاء بیت‌العدل اعظم الهی جهت این مظلومان ارسال فرموده‌اند، حامل پیام شوق بود و همچون هدهد سلیمان عشق این ستمدیدگان را بال و پری عنایت می‌کند که به اوج افلاک عزت به پرواز آئیم و امر مبارک الهی را با ایثاری بیش از پیش خدمت نمائیم.

مکتوب شورانگیز آن سروران موجب حصول انجذاب و شعف گردید و مانند گلی خوشبویی از بوستان محبت روائح طیبه‌ای به مشام دل و جان این محنت کشیدگان آورد.

شکر جمال اقدس ابهی را که جمیع مصائب و بلیات و قطرات دماء مطهرای که در سبیل الهی به خاک ریخته، باعث ظهور تحولاتی شگفت‌انگیز گردیده و نطاق امر مبارک را در سراسر جهان توسعه بخشیده و افتخارات باهره‌ای حاصل شده است.

امید است که خلاصی کامل جامعه بهائیان ایران و تأمین حقوق انسانی آنان در جمیع شؤون حیات عنقریب متحقق گردد.

از درگاه الهی خاضعانه تمنا می‌نمائیم که این مظلومان را تأییدی عنایت فرماید که به ایفاء وظایف روحانیه و دستورات آسمانی معهد اعلی با عشق و ایثار تام توفیق یابیم. ملتمسیم که در حق این افتادگان دعا نمائید که به این مهم موفق گردیم.

امید وطید آن است که به عنایت الهی آن عزيزان نیز مانند سایر برادران و خواهران روحانی نجوم افق هدایت گردند و عندلیبان خوشخوان بوستان احدیت. حوت ابحر حیات و معرفت شوند و لیث عرین بیشه معرفت.

از درگاه الهی ملتمسیم که مساعی حمیده آن عزیزان را برکتی عظیم بخشد و به هدایت کبری مدد نماید تا سرلوحه خدمات آن یاران تلألؤى بیشتر یابد.

با تحیات ابدع ابهی

حقوق‌الله

HUQUQU’LLAH

از دوستان عزیز مستدعی است که تقدیمی‌های حقوق‌الله را در وجه Bahá’í Huququ’lláh Trust به نشانی یکی از امنای حقوق‌الله ارسال فرمایند.

Dr. Daryush Haghighi Rocky River, OH 44116

Dr. Amin Banani Santa Monica, CA 90402

Dr. Elsie Austin P.O. Box 927 Silver Spring, MD 20910

کنفرانس مطالعات بهائی

ASSOCIATION FOR BAHÁ’Í STUDIES CONFERENCE

از ۱۵ الی ۱۷ سپتامبر سال جاری چهاردهمین کنفرانس سالانه "انجمن مطالعات بهائی" با حضور بیش از ۸۰۰ نفر در ارواین Irvine در کالیفرنیا منعقد گردید. عنوان این کنفرانس "مشارکت کامل: تساوی حقوق زن و مرد" بود.

عضو هیئت مشاورین قاره‌ای، خانم جکلین دلاهانت Jacqueline Delahunt در نطق افتتاحیه این کنفرانس خاطر نشان ساخت که مرد و زن بسان "دو بال" حضرت بهاءالله چنین مقدر فرموده است، اما تحقق و ایجاد این تساوی در نظم محول کنونی هنوز صورت نگرفته است. غرض از حصول تساوی حقوق رجال و نساء همانا آنست که عالم انسانی به مرحله‌ای رسیده که دیگر نمی‌تواند استعدادات خود را بدون آن شکوفا نماید.

خانم دروتی نلسون، رئیس محفل روحانی ملی ایالات متحده و ناظم کنفرانس در بیانات خود اظهار داشت که جامعه جهانی بهائی به منزله کارگاهی است که مردان و زنان با سوابق مختلف در پی آنند که مفهوم تساوی را در عمل به منصه ظهور رسانند.

نطق اصلی توسط دکتر رابرت هندرسن منشی محفل روحانی ملی ایالات متحده ایراد شد. ایشان در بیانات خود گفتند "بیایید این کنفرانس را وقف درک راههایی کنیم که برای این تلاش جهت تحقق تساوی حقوق لازم است. بیایید دل و فکرمان را در برابر امکانات جدید باز کنیم و فرصت‌های جدیدی بجوئیم که نتیجه این کنفرانس بیش از درک عقلانی این مساله باشد و تغییراتی در زندگی ما حاصل کند که به مشارکت کامل رهنمون شود."

دیگر افرادی که در جلسات عمومی سخنرانی کردند عبارت بودند از: خانم ریان آیزلر Riane Eisler نویسنده سرشناس و یکی از مؤسسین "مرکز مطالعات مشارکت". دکتر حسین دانش، منشی محفل روحانی ملی بهائیان کانادا و خانم بهیه نخجوانی نویسنده و محقق بهائی.

خانم آیزلر در ضمن بیانات خود اظهار داشت "تحولی که يك جامعه انسانی تر می‌خواهد یعنی روابط بین زن و مرد را شکل می‌دهد، تنها در روابط شخصی افراد اثر نمی‌گذارد، بلکه همه شؤون زندگی خانوادگی و نهادهای اجتماعی و تشکیلات سیاسی را نیز در بر می‌گیرد."

قبل از افتتاح رسمی کنفرانس سمینارهای ارتباط با حرفه‌های گوناگون تشکیل گردید. در این سمینارها اعضای مؤسسه بهائی کشاورزی Bahá’í Agricultural Institute و مؤسسه بهائی هنرها Bahá’í Institute for the Arts و مؤسسه بهائی طرح محیط زیست Bahá’í Institute for Environmental Design شرکت داشتند.

مسائلی چون امور اقتصادی و تجاری، مشورت و طرق حل اختلافات، تعلیم و تربیت، ازدواج و امور مربوط به خانواده، مطالعات درباره ادیان و علوم و فنون و صنایع و فلسفه علوم در سمینارهای مذکور مورد بحث و مذاکره قرار گرفت.

عده‌ای از هنرمندان بهائی نیز در جلسات عمومی کنفرانس شرکت داشتند و آثار را از منظر خود محفوظ نمودند.

روش‌های کمک به پناهندگان هند و چینی

WAYS TO HELP SOUTHEAST ASIAN REFUGEES

مسؤول دفتر امور پناهندگان محفل روحانی ملی، اخیراً از سفری سه روزه به ایالت اورگان بازگشته و اطلاعاتی درباره پناهندگان هندوچینی فراهم آورده که جهت آگاهی یاران درج می‌گردد.

یکی از احبای اورگان بسیاری از اوقات خود را صرف رسیدگی به امور و نیازهای پناهندگان هندوچینی ساکن اورگان کرده است به حدی که خدماتش باعث شده که پناهندگان هند و چینی او را معتمد خود بدانند تا جائی که یکی از خانواده‌های پناهندگان که قصد مسافرت کوتاهی به اروپا داشت، پنج فرزند خود را که سنشان از ۲ تا ۱۵ سال است، به مدت سه هفته به او سپردند.

از جمله بهائیان هندوچینی که در پورتلند اقامت دارد آقای بروس بلياتوت Bruce Bliatout است که در رشته روانشناسی دکترا دارد. دکتر بلياتوت که اصلاً لائوسی است چندین سال در یکی از دانشگاه‌های دولتی جهت تسهیل امور افراد هندوچینی به کار اشتغال دارد.

دکتر بلياتوت به مسؤول امور پناهندگان چنین اظهار نمود که اصولاً پناهندگان هندوچینی ساکن ایالات متحده با سه مشکل روبرو هستند: عدم آگاهی با زبان انگلیسی، تفاوت‌های فرهنگی، کمبود مشاغلی که بتواند مخارج خانواده‌های آنان را که عموماً تعداد افرادشان زیاد است، تأمین نماید.

دکتر بلياتوت جهت تسهیل امور پناهندگان هندوچینی و كمك به آنان پیشنهادهای زیر را ارائه نمود:

• دعوت جوانان هندوچینی و والدینشان به شرکت در برنامه‌های عمران اجتماعی و اقتصادی.
• انعقاد کلاس‌هایی جهت تعلیم مدیریت به جوانان هندوچینی.
• آشنا ساختن پناهندگان هندوچینی با نظام آموزشی ایالات متحده.
• ایجاد روابط دوستانه با حفظ مداومت و اتخاذ روشی که موجب استیحای آنان نشود.
• کسب رضایت رهبر قبیله پیش از وارد کردن افراد هندوچینی در هر گونه فعالیتی.

تغییر زمان انعقاد کنفرانس پورتلند

"VISION TO VICTORY" CONFERENCE - PORTLAND

تاریخ انعقاد کنفرانس "از رؤیا تا پیروزی" پورتلند در ایالت اورگان تغییر کرده است. این کنفرانس از ۳۰ مارچ الی اول آپریل سال ۱۹۹۰ تشکیل خواهد شد. جهت کسب اطلاعات بیشتر می‌توان با وسلی گولد Wesley Gold تماس حاصل نمود. تلفن: ۱۲۷۷-۶۸۴ (۵۰۳)

ترمیم ساختمان مشرق الاذکار

در حول مشرق‌الاذکار ایالات متحده ۹۱۸ پله بتونی وجود دارد. محفل روحانی ملی جهت اجرای طرح ترمیم مشرق‌الاذکار در صدد ترمیم این پله‌هاست. ۶۸ پله جلوی در ورودی مشرق‌الاذکار احتیاج به بازسازی دارد و پس از دو سال آزمایش جهت تهیه بتونی همرنگ با مصالحی که از ابتدا در ساختمان این معبد به کار رفته در شرف ترمیم است. این مرحله از طرح ترمیم مشرق‌الاذکار اپریل امسال آغاز شد و تا نوامبر سال جاری اتمام خواهد پذیرفت.

پاکسازی دیوارهای بتونی داخل و خارج مشرق‌الاذکار نیز از اپریل امسال آغاز گردیده است تا تابستان سال آینده ادامه خواهد داشت. مرحله بعدی که ترمیم آبروی بتونی حول گنبد است، در بهار آینده آغاز خواهد شد.

اخطار به احباء

WARNING

به تازگی شخصی به نام ریچارد دیویس Richard Davis با تعدادی از جوامع امری در ایالات متحده تماس حاصل نموده و از احباء تقاضای کمک مالی کرده است. ایشان در ضمن تماس با احباء اظهار می‌دارد که از استرالیا یا زلاند نو جهت سفرهای تبلیغی به آمریکا آمده و مورد ضرب و جرح قرار گرفته و اوراق شناساییش مفقود شده است. در برخی از موارد آقای دیویس خود را با نام مستعار تری هیدن Terry Headen معرفی کرده است.

محفل روحانی ملی بدینوسیله به اطلاع کلیه یاران می‌رساند که آقای ریچارد دیویس بهائی نیست و یاران نباید کمکی به او نمایند. هر گونه تماس با آقای دیویس باید به اطلاع محفل روحانی محلی برسد. [Page 15]

Peace Fest

Left photo: Trumpeter Roger Lewis of the Bahá’í Peace Orchestra gives some pointers to an aspiring young musician at the Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute.

Right photo: The 18-member Bahá’í Peace Orchestra performs during the Saturday evening concert that was the centerpiece of South Carolina’s Peace Fest ’89.

individual or group to honor a significant contribution to constructive social progress and the peace and well-being of this nation and the world, was presented to Dr. Gibson by Dr. William Smith, a Bahá’í who is president of Comtel Communications, a video production company in Massachusetts.

Dr. Smith, a native of Greenville, is a long-time friend of Dr. Gibson.

In accepting the award, Dr. Gibson said, "I have been very fortunate to have received a number of honors and awards in my lifetime.

"Tonight I say to you, and not merely for the occasion, that I am more honored to receive this award than all the others I have received before."

Dr. Gibson also spoke at the Sunday morning worship service, recalling the visit by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to the fourth annual Convention of the NAACP ("friends, it took nerve to visit the NAACP Convention in 1912") and praising the Bahá’ís for their devotion to the ideal of world peace.

"Today," Dr. Gibson said in closing, "I believe that 'these fruitless strifes, these ruinous wars shall pass away, and the Most Great Peace shall come.'"

The Ambassador Award, given to a local person or group for community service, was presented to Mrs. Dawes for her work with children. Since 1980 she has welcomed more than 40 foster children into her home.

In addition to local performers, the Talent Showcase featured appearances by the South Carolina Bahá’í Youth Workshop and by Ladjamaya Green and her son, Akeem, from the Green Acre Bahá’í School.

The Peace Orchestra, which performed in August at the Bahá’í Center in Los Angeles and is trying to raise money for an appearance in December at the West African Bahá’í Music Festival in Monrovia, Liberia, was led by baritone saxophonist Marvin (Doc) Holladay.

Letters

in the transformation of humankind. The victory is ours to win; it is also ours to lose.

I have no concern that the Cause will fail if we do. Should we falter, God will without doubt raise up a people who will succeed.

I am, however, greatly concerned about our role in this unfolding drama. The Six Year Plan is more than half over now, and the National Assembly tells us that the growth of the Cause in America is slow at best. The Fund is hurting. Remember the shock last year when this very paper shrank to only eight pages? The world is looking to the U.S. Bahá’í community and wondering when we are going to get started.

There are a number of American Bahá’ís who are working hard at teaching; there are also a number who aren't.

I have no illusions about my own efforts. Whatever I am doing in service to Bahá’u’lláh can be increased and improved. What anyone else does is between them and God; I am responsible only for my own actions.

Nevertheless, I feel compelled to ask if each of us could, in his private prayers and meditations, find a way to increase his individual efforts for the Cause.

We can each do our part. An individual effort may not seem like much, but collectively our drops of effort can make a mighty river.

Bahá’u’lláh has given us the chance to serve. Compared to what He suffered to give us His Message, our service to Him in a small sacrifice indeed.

The work we now do will have an effect on many generations to come. After all, what would the world be like today if Peter, Paul and the countless others who served God in previous times had not risen to accept the challenge?

Bruce Barker Mount Airy, North Carolina

Earmarking funds

Although earmarking was discouraged by the Guardian (lest too much earmarking should tie the hands of the National Spiritual Assembly), if you do wish to make an earmarked gift please be specific; for example, gifts have been received recently which merely say "House of Worship" or "Temple construction" or even Mashriqu’l-Adhkár"—with no designation as to which House of Worship (Wilmette, India, Samoa?). Please include all information to assure that your gift is expended as you intended—otherwise the Treasurer's Office must either contact you or make an assumption as to your intent—neither of which is efficient.

Loss or injury at Bahá’í events should be reported to Treasurer

In the event of the loss of or damage to any property or equipment, or injury to any person at a Bahá’í-sponsored event, please report the incident immediately to the Office of the Treasurer at the Bahá’í National Center (phone 312-869-9039, ext. 276).

Please do not agree to pay for any injuries or damages; instead, refer all such claims or lawsuits arising out of such claims to the Office of the Treasurer.

That office, working with the National Spiritual Assembly's insurance carrier, will investigate the claim and, if necessary, arrange for settlement.

PROCLAMATION BY GOVERNOR CARROLL A. CAMPBELL, JR. ON SOUTH CAROLINA PEACE WEEK

WHEREAS, all South Carolinians share in the recognition of the United Nations World Peace Day; and

WHEREAS, a South Carolina Peace Week would reflect the wishes of all South Carolinians for peace; and

WHEREAS, a South Carolina focus on a week of peace would lend an opportunity for diverse groups and individuals to express this aspiration through thought and action; and

WHEREAS, the Bahá’í community of South Carolina is supporting a major peace festival in conjunction with United Nations Peace Day.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Carroll A. Campbell Jr., Governor of the State of South Carolina, do hereby proclaim the week of September 11-17, 1989, as

SOUTH CAROLINA PEACE WEEK

in the State of South Carolina.

Faith mentioned on Indianapolis TV program as a result of activities in working for peace

The Bahá’í Faith received an unexpected mention recently on the Indianapolis Peace Center's television program, "Peace Works."

During a discussion of the Indiana Conference on Peacemaking, which was to take place in September at Manchester College, the conference secretary, Tom Jones, giving examples of peacemaking groups, explained how members of the Bahá’í Faith in Indiana were active in peace efforts.

The conference co-chairman, Bahá’í Hamilton Niss, followed up the favorable remarks with a brief mention of the Universal House of Justice and its commitment to world peace.

IN MEMORIAM

Toufic Ardekani Davis, CA July 15, 1989

Marion Ayer Spearfish, SD Date Unknown

David Begay Glendale, AZ Novenfber 1988

Beveridge, Kent Haifa, Israel April 2, 1989

Alzadah Borough East Lansing, MI June 24, 1989

Joseph Braboy Marion, SC Date Unknown

Lillie May Braboy Marion, SC Date Unknown

Bill Brooks Staunton, VA August 28, 1989

Eddie Buchanan Dawson, GA Date Unknown

Beatrice Buss Valley, NE January 1989

Robert Carlson Puyallup, WA July 15, 1989

Nettie Carrisoza Ramona, CA 1987

Catherine Cates Union, ME May 3, 1988

Jack Chandler Andrews, SC Date Unknown

Mary E. Cone Fair Oaks, CA Date Unknown

Richard Corder Glendale, AZ February 1989

Mable Cottier Martin, SD June 18, 1989

Donna Cripe Dinuba, CA March 7, 1989

Robert Drayton Georgetown, SC Date Unknown

Laura Dyer Dawson, GA Date Unknown

George Flying Horse McIntosh, SD Date Unknown

Henry C. Fritsch Calexico, CA Date Unknown

Paul Thomas George San Diego, CA January 1989

Edna Gilchrist Loris, SC Date Unknown

Lillian Gray Burney, CA June 25, 1989

Luella Green Andrews, SC Date Unknown

Nella Gustafson Alton, NH May 24, 1989

Margaret Hadrick Palatine, IL May 27, 1989

Pauline Hamilton Lilly, GA January 1989

Berlin Harris Richland, GA 1988

Loquetta Haynes South Bend, IN April 2, 1989

Ella Holding Mineral Wells, TX Date Unknown

Roberta Jones Montezuma, GA Date Unknown

Reuben Lewis Dawson, GA Date Unknown

David Little Bull Martin, SD June 11, 1989

Rene Martin Central Islip, NY July 13, 1987

Roger Martin Central Islip, NY July 2, 1989

Sanders Moore Perry, GA Date Unknown

Loraine Morgan Newnan, GA Date Unknown

Othel Morgan Newnan, GA Date Unknown

Lottie B. Murray Perry, GA January 1989

Harrison Neal Georgetown, SC Date Unknown

Pauline Oliver Perry, GA January 24, 1989

Joe Pryor Andrews, SC Date Unknown

Doris D. Savage Greensboro, NC July 13, 1989

Jessie Shoemaker Perry, GA Date Unknown

Clarence Stigall Chicago, IL July 1, 1989

Burt Stone Phoenix, AZ 1987

Phillip Trutza American Samoa February 1, 1989

Harris Washington Plantersville, SC 1989

Henry Williams Dawson, GA Date Unknown

William L. Wise Bangor, ME October 27, 1982 [Page 16]

Peace Pavilion draws Bahá’í support

The Bahá’í Peace Committee of Central Ohio carried out several activities with the Peace Pavilion at this summer’s Ohio State Fair in Columbus.

The pavilion was organized through the office of Gov. Richard Celeste who, with his wife, has been a strong supporter of peace initiatives.

More than 50 Bahá’ís from 16 localities in Ohio helped man a display booth with literature and a hands-on project for children.

One day of the 17-day fair was designated as “Bahá’í Day” with the theme “World Unity Day.”

In addition, several Bahá’ís provided entertainment on other days of the fair including Mary Davis, who performed at the “Jammin’ for Peace” concert attended by the governor.

As a result of the impression made by the Bahá’ís at the fair, the pavilion coordinator arranged for one of them to present a short speech on “The Promise of World Peace” during the closing ceremony.

The coordinator praised the Bahá’ís several times during the ceremony, and afterward the governor’s wife personally thanked them for their efforts.

Steve Hancock and his daughter man the Bahá’í booth in the Peace Pavilion at this summer’s Ohio State Fair in Columbus.

MOVING? TELL US YOUR NEW ADDRESS

To avoid unnecessary delays in receiving your copy of The American Bahá’í, send your new address and your mailing label to MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, as soon as you know where you are going to move and what your new address will be.

This form may be used for one person or your entire family. Please be sure to list FULL NAMES AND I.D. NUMBERS for all individuals, ages 15 years or older, who will be affected by this change.

A	ID#	Title	Full name—Please DO NOT use nicknames
1.
2.
3.
4.

B—NEW RESIDENCE ADDRESS:	C—NEW MAIL ADDRESS:
House/Space #, Street or Description	P.O. Box or other Mailing Address
City Template:Space State Template:Space Zip	City Template:Space State Template:Space Zip

D—NEW COMMUNITY:	Name of new Bahá’í community	Moving date
E—HOME TELEPHONE NUMBER:	Area Code Template:Space Number
F—WORK TELEPHONE NUMBERS:	Please indicate in the right-hand space whose work numbers these are.
	Area Code Template:Space Number	Name
	Area Code Template:Space Number	Name

G — We receive extra copies because:

[ ] we do not have the same last name.

[ ] we do not want extra copies, so please cancel the copy for the person(s) whose name(s) and I.D. number(s) are listed above.

[ ] the last names and addresses on our address labels do not match exactly. We have listed above the full names of all family members as they should appear on the national records, their I.D. numbers, and the corrections so that we will receive only one copy.

[ ] Our household receives only one copy of The American Bahá’í. I wish to receive my own copy as well, and have listed my name, I.D. number and address above so that I may be put on the mailing list to receive my own copy.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

October 26-29: Pioneer Training Institute, Green Acre Bahá’í School, Eliot, Maine. For information, contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

October 28-29: “Stepping Stones to Peace,” third annual Children’s Peace Conference, Pasadena (California) City College. Theme: “Imagine Peace.” Pre-registration is required. For information, phone 818-459-9033.

November 1-5: National Bahá’í Winter School, Port Dickson, Malaysia. Includes simultaneous Chinese and Tamil Schools, School for Children and Junior Youth. For more information, contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center (312-869-9039).

November 9-11: National Conference on the United States and United Nations, Renaissance Hotel TechWorld, Washington, D.C. Theme: “The U.S. and the Global System: Forging a New Relationship.” For information or to register, contact Kathy Morrell, Conference on U.S. and UN, Washington, DC 20005 (phone 202-393-1377).

November 11-12: Bahá’í International Health Agency conference, “AIDS and the Bahá’í Community,” Montreal Bahá’í Centre, 177 ave des Pins Est, Montreal, Québec, Canada. Designed for Bahá’ís who are care-givers, health professionals, family, friends or persons who have AIDS themselves. For information, contact BIHA, Québec H3Z 1P7, Canada, or phone 514-931-7640.

November 23-26: Annual Desert Rose Bahá’í School, Tucson, Arizona. Speakers include the Hand of the Cause of God William Sears; artist, designer and business executive Mildred Mottahedeh; Stephen Birkland; Dr. Amin Banani, Trustee of the Huqúqu’lláh; and Duane Troxel, associate dean, University of Colorado/Denver. For more information, please write to the Desert Rose School, Tucson, AZ 85737, or phone Marguerite Sears, 602-297-3106, or Enayat Rohani, 602-742-4656.

November 24-27: Homecoming Weekend, Penn Center, Frogmore, South Carolina. Theme: “Vision Renewed.” Registrar, Donna Spahn, P.O. Box 236, St. Helena, SC 29922 (phone 803-838-5453).

December 22-24: Fifth annual Grand Canyon Bahá’í Conference, “Vision to Victory ’89,” Arizona Biltmore Hotel, Phoenix. For more information, write to P.O. Box 9961, Phoenix, AZ 85068, or phone 602-995-3817.

December 27-January 1: Family Winter Session, Louhelen Bahá’í School, Michigan. Classes on the Kitáb-i-Íqán and Bahá’í Family Life conducted by Chuck and Selma Howard. Full program for children and youth; recreation, devotions, family activities, variety show, fellowship, good food, Unity Feast.

December 28-30: International Conference for the Friends of Dr. Raḥmatu’lláh Muhájir, Quito, Ecuador. To observe the 10th anniversary of Dr. Muhájir’s passing and to launch “Muhájir Year” in Ecuador. For information, contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 312-869-9039).

December 28-30: West African Bahá’í Music Festival, Monrovia, Liberia. Theme: “Peace Through Unity.” For information, contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 312-869-9039.

BAHÁ’Í NATIONAL CENTER 112 Linden Avenue Wilmette, IL 60091