The American Bahá’í/Volume 21/Issue 11/Text

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[Page 1]The American Bahá’í ‘The real treasury of man is his knowledge’—Bahá’u’lláh Volume 21, No. 11 November 1990

Hispanics respond warmly to Glendale’s love, sharing

A teaching project in Glendale, California, has resulted in more than 70 new believers embracing the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh since last summer.

When the Spiritual Assembly of Glendale charged its teaching committee at the beginning of summer to formulate a teaching plan, the committee’s immediate response was to choose an area of the city and a population on which to focus the teaching efforts. Committee members started going to that area for dawn prayers each Saturday morning.

The committee chose to carry the Message of Bahá’u’lláh to the Hispanic population, and its prayers were offered at a park in ‎an {{{2}}}‎ Hispanic neighborhood.

They began bringing coffee and doughnuts with them to enjoy following prayers, and invited others who were in the park to join them.

Soon, the Glendale community began picking up trash in the park on Sunday afternoons. Many passersby, curious about the diverse mix of people cleaning the park, stopped to ask questions. On learning that the newcomers were Bahá’ís, many asked about the Faith, and some became believers.

More declarations of faith were made in the following weeks. Several of the new believers were friends or relatives of those who had become Bahá’ís earlier.

The new Bahá’ís were immediately tied to the teaching work, and many are teaching the Faith with a special passion that is manifest in the early days of being a believer.

As the number of enrollments increased, the Glendale teaching committee initiated additional activities. On Sunday mornings, Bahá’ís began to visit the new believers, developing further friendships that had been established and ensuring that the teaching work continued beyond enrollment.

Also on Sunday mornings, classes for children were begun at the park.

On Sunday evenings, a deepening

See GLENDALE page 2

National Education Committee developing core curriculum for Bahá’í children ages 6-12

In its letter of January 2, 1986, inaugurating the process for launching the Six Year Plan, the Universal House of Justice noted that “a firmer and worldwide demonstration of the Bahá’í way of life requiring special consideration of the Bahá’í education of children and youth, the strengthening of Bahá’í family life, and attention to universal participation and the spiritual enrichment of individual life” was a major objective and expectation of that Plan.

The successful completion by the National Education Committee of a catalog of educational materials currently available was an important step toward achieving that objective. Inquiries about the materials and requests for copies should be directed to the Bahá’í Distribution Service and not to the committee.

The Sacred Writings assure us that the capacity to grasp fundamental moral and spiritual principles, by which the light of a good character is made evident, is deposited within the children. If they were invited into the Cause, and helped to become deepened teachers of the Faith, they could in turn rescue their peers.

To meet that need, the National Bahá’í Education Committee has been developing a core curriculum for Bahá’í children ages 6-12. An announcement will be made in The American Bahá’í about the regional teacher training conference that will be the means through which the core curriculum is made generally available. Its implementation in every local Bahá’í school will take place through existing local agencies and institutions of the Faith rather than through a network of educational advisers, consultants or coordinators. Spiritual Assemblies are encouraged to refer to Developing Distinctive Bahá’í Communities for guidance on how to organize a Bahá’í educational program.

In these remaining years of the Six Year Plan, it is our highest hope that the core curriculum for Bahá’í children ages 6-12 will be implemented at every Bahá’í school in the country. Apparent in the Riḍván 1990 message from the Universal House of Justice is the need for urgency in educating our children in the tenets of the Faith and helping them to grasp the significance of the Holy Year, “that special time when we shall pause to appreciate the tumultuous record of events which will have brought us to the Centenary of the Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh and to reflect with due solemnity upon the redemptive purpose of the life of the most precious Being ever to have drawn breath on this planet.”

National Bahá’í Education Committee November 1990

This photograph of the Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois, was taken in October from a helicopter by Scot Corrie, photographer for The American Bahá’í. The National Spiritual Assembly has been in the process of restoring and cleaning the ornamental concrete panels that have been damaged by weather. As a part of the process, Midwest Survey has been contracted by Bahá’í Properties Inc. to record the precise location of every point of the ornamental concrete surface in the interior and exterior of the building to within 1/8-inch using a photogrammetric negative and surveying control measurements. The results of the survey will be archived for future use to form molds that are exact replicas of present surfaces and that can be used to replace any panels that have been damaged by weather or aging, even beyond the building’s intended 1,000-year life. The methods being used are the most advanced available anywhere. Besides providing the ability to make precise repairs, the surveyors are using satellite technology to pinpoint to within one centimeter the building’s exact location on the planet.

Guidance from the Universal House of Justice on attracting people of capacity and prominence to the Faith. See Bahá’í National Review, pages 7-10.

Friends are encouraged to use wisdom, discretion when applying Bahá’í teachings to current events

Today it is not uncommon to find world leaders and prominent publications referring to current events with terminology that seems to reflect statements made by either the Central Figures of the Faith, Shoghi Effendi, or the Universal House of Justice. While it is heartening to see familiar phrases such as “new world order” or “unity in diversity” gaining widespread use, the friends should not leap to the conclusion that the leaders and publications are using the Bahá’í Writings as their source.

Certainly there can be no doubt in the mind of any discerning believer that the motivating force behind the planet’s recent steps toward world peace is the Plan of God. Knowing this as a matter of faith, however, is quite different from publicly proclaiming it to the world at large, and it is in this latter area that the friends are encouraged—

See CURRENT page 11 [Page 2]

Some words to Bahá’í youth about deepening

With so many young people these days drawn to the Teachings of the Faith of God, the National Youth Committee has prepared the following article on deepening in the Cause.

“Deepening.” We talk about it all the time, but what does it really mean?

We always hear how important deepening is. Have we ever stopped to think why? The true meaning of deepening won’t be found in the dictionary but in the Writings, which offer many clues about its purpose and nature.

“Immerse yourselves in the ocean of My words, that ye may unravel its secrets, and discover all the pearls of wisdom that lie hid in its depths. Take heed that ye do not vacillate in your determination to embrace the truth of this Cause—a Cause through which the potentialities of the might of God have been revealed, and His sovereignty established. With faces beaming with joy, hasten ye unto Him. This is the changeless Faith of God, eternal in the past, eternal in the future. Let him that seeketh, attain it; and as to him that hath refused to seek it—verily, God is Self-Sufficient, above any need of His creatures.” (Bahá’u’lláh, Synopsis and Codification of the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, p. 25)

So it is good that we talk about deepening so much, because it is very important. Like food. You simply can’t survive without it.

But there’s another type of deepening that is also important, even though we don’t seem to talk much about it. It is deepening on your own—just you and the books.

What’s great about this is that it’s so simple to plan. And it can be regular, such as every morning and every night—like eating breakfast and going to school, but even more important.

You probably know people who have been doing it every day for a long time and they will tell you that it has changed their lives, given direction and purpose and knowledge.

Deepening is learning, it’s falling in love with Bahá’u’lláh and His Revelation. And it’s a gift that all of us can share.

So when do you start? How about tonight, this very night, right before you go to sleep?

And what to deepen on? Last year, the National Spiritual Assembly asked us to deepen on the Kitáb-i-Íqán. They are now asking us to deepen on Epistle to the Son of the Wolf.

Look around and find a copy in your home or community. It may seem hard to read at first, but even if you read only a few lines, or just one, that’s where it all begins. And maybe you can find another person with whom to talk about the things you have read.

If you want to deepen on the Writings, go for it. There is an ocean of gems waiting to be discovered by each of us and incorporated into our daily lives.

As we deepen we will want to share what we learn with our friends—in other words, teach.

Let’s say you read this quote one morning: “O My servants! Sorrow not if, in these days and on this earthly plane, things contrary to your wishes have been ordained and manifested by God, for days of blissful joy, of heavenly delight, are assuredly in store for you. Worlds, holy and spiritually glorious, will be unveiled to your eyes. You are destined by Him, in this world and hereafter, to partake of their benefits, to share in their joys and to obtain a portion of their sustaining grace. To each and every one of them you will, no doubt, attain.” (Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 329)

Doesn’t that make you feel incredibly happy? Don’t you want to run and tell your best buddy how terrific life is? The Word of God gives us strength and courage and inner peace. Why deny ourselves and others this bounty?

Future issues of The American Bahá’í will include quotations that we would like to ask all of the youth to memorize. If in your deepening endeavors you come across a quote that you would like to share with others, please send it to us.

Also, we would love to hear about your thoughts and experiences with the process of deepening, and about any books you would like to recommend to others.

If you would like to share something, please send it to: National Youth Committee, c/o Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

This month’s quote: “The utterance of God is a lamp, whose light is these words: Ye are the fruits of one tree, and the leaves of one branch. Deal ye one with another with the utmost love and harmony, with friendliness and fellowship. He Who is the Day Star of Truth beareth Me witness! So powerful is the light of unity that it can illuminate the whole earth. The one true God, He Who knoweth all things, Himself testifieth to the truth of these words.” (Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 288)

Service project helps Nevada Bahá’í children raise money for orphans, AIDS victims

During Sunday morning sessions at the Northern Nevada Bahá’í Children’s Teaching Institute, the children have been studying the writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá pertaining to children and the sick.

In accordance with the Guardian’s summons to action after prayer and study, the children designed a service project in which each was to undertake a specific task (babysitting, household chores, etc.).

About $40 was raised in this way by children in Reno, Sparks and Washoe County and donated to the World Health Organization to help orphaned children and those with AIDS in Romania.

After receiving guidance from the National Spiritual Assembly, a check for $40 was sent with a letter bearing each child’s signature to the Bahá’í representative at the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland, to be forwarded to the director of the WHO.

Each Bahá’í child later received a framed copy of a letter from the Bahá’í representative and WHO director expressing appreciation for their meritorious action in helping the children in Romania.

Glendale

from page 1

program for new believers, to which non-Bahá’ís met at the park also were invited, was begun at a community center in Glendale.

Because the meeting-place is not located near the park, rides are provided by several members of the Glendale community.

In addition, literacy in English has been identified as a special need of many of the new believers, and the Glendale Assembly is making arrangements to help meet that need. The first class in English was begun in October, led by a Bahá’í from a neighboring community.

This project, which was started with a few members of a local teaching committee gathering for prayers, now involves many community members, both new and veteran believers, as well as several Bahá’ís from nearby communities.

Top: Mar Laurico (second from left) teaching in a park in Glendale. Middle: Bahá’í children display colorful pictures produced during one of their classes. Bottom: New believers prepare a barbecue of chicken and ribs. [Page 3]

New Treasurer’s receipt form soon on its way to friends

‘THE FIRST CONDITION . . .’

“The first condition is absolute love and harmony among the members. . . .” —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

A new receipt form, based on guidance from the Universal House of Justice and incorporating suggestions from friends across the country, will be making its way to you in the near future. As of this writing, the test printing of 10,000 forms (about a ‎two-months two-month‎ supply) has gone to the printer.

The Office of the Treasurer hopes the friends will find this form much easier to use than the previous ones. The goal is to provide for the many ways of contributing that our Teachings afford us, in as clear and simple a format as possible. Your comments and suggestions will be most welcome and appreciated.

There are a few points to keep in mind when deciding how to fill out the form. First, the amount you give as an unrestricted gift to the National Bahá’í Fund goes in the top box. If you wish to earmark all or part of your contribution, however, those instructions go on the “additional contributions” lines.

You will notice two sets of yes/no boxes that must be used if you earmark your donation. The first of these relates to the tax laws. A contribution to any Fund outside the U.S. is not tax-deductible. The National Spiritual Assembly, in order to comply with IRS regulations, must be able to exercise control, or discretion, over all contributions coming to the National Fund for recipients overseas.

The giver is free to express his or her wish that the funds be sent along to the foreign destination, and the National Assembly takes these wishes into account in allocating the gift. Let us look at an example:

If you wish to make an additional gift to the Bahá’í International Fund, and at the same time preserve your tax credit, you would check “yes” in item 1; this leaves the National Assembly free to exercise its discretion but indicates your wish and hope that the additional gift will go to the World Center.

If for some reason you do not wish to leave the choice open to the National Assembly, you would check “no”; the National Fund then simply acts as your “paying agent,” and you would not deduct the gift from your taxes.

The second item refers primarily to our budgeted support for various purposes, an example of which is this year’s International Fund goal of $12 million. If you want your gift applied to that commitment, you would check “yes.”

If you had checked “yes” on both items (1) and (2) for a contribution to the International Fund, the National Assembly would consider sending your gift to the World Center; if it does so, it would be counted against the $12 million goal, and you should be able to deduct the contribution from your taxes.

“The believers’ opportunities to support the activities of the Faith,” said one staff member in the Treasurer’s Office, “are almost unlimited. The challenge is to provide one form that does all this.

“Unrestricted gifts or gifts earmarked for any one of a hundred things must be accounted for, and of course preserving a tax deduction is important to many of the friends.”

What Is Everyone Saying?

ILLINOIS

“. . . we recently held a garage sale and offered up some of our possessions to Bahá’u’lláh. (Due to recent financial conditions we have been unable to contribute to the funds as often and as freely as we would like.) At the same time, our two oldest children, ages 4 and 9, sold lemonade. By the grace of God, we were able to raise (contribution enclosed). Most significant, no doubt, was the children’s ability to sit at their post for nearly three hours, accounting for a very special (amount) for the Fund, which is included in our donation. We hope, of course, that others will begin . . . to supplicate Bahá’u’lláh for detachment as well as to provide us with creative new ways to ‘find’ the resources needed to complete the tasks at hand.”

VIRGINIA

“At the most recent National Convention . . . the representative from our district offered a pledge on behalf of (our) Spiritual Assembly . . . to be donated to the Arc Project. Enclosed please find the first payment . . . which was generated by the friends in their fund-raising efforts and by individual Bahá’ís. You will also find a list of the friends who contributed these funds specifically for the Arc. Please include their names in the special edition of The Dawn-Breakers. . . . (We) are committed to fulfilling our pledge which is above and beyond our regular monthly contribution to the Fund. You have our continuing love and prayers.”

PENNSYLVANIA

“The Spiritual Assembly sponsors the annual Conference of Nur. At this year’s conference an afghan, which was crocheted by one of our wonderful local believers, was auctioned for the building fund of the Arc. . . . It is with a great deal of happiness and pleasure that we send (the enclosed) check toward our national (budget) for the Arc. There were three declarations as a result of the conference . . . and in the Harrisburg area we had another declaration last Sunday. We ask for Bahá’u’lláh’s confirmations for more exciting experiences.”

Young pen pals

Hi Mr. Davis I am sending you $5 for the Fund. I love you. I am doing a job cleaning the environment. My mom pays me. I made $1 of the $5 from my job.

I am sending this money in the honor of Mr. Sears. Mr. Sears gift of the Dawn Breakers. Bye. Love Ariana. [Page 4]

Publications for Teaching • Proclamation • Personal Development

NEW PUBLICATIONS, CALENDARS, AND SOFTWARE TO AID IN STUDYING AND TEACHING THE FAITH

Bahá’u’lláh REFER

Indexing and Retrieval Software for the Bahá’í Writings Version 1.0

Bahá’u’lláh REFER: Indexing and Retrieval Software for the Bahá’í Writings Developed by Lee Nelson $99.95

Have you ever heard someone say, “I know I read it somewhere... but I don’t remember where?” This new software program that provides quick and easy access to the writings of Bahá’u’lláh helps resolve such frustrating situations. After selecting which books to search and entering a key word or words, your screen displays one-line references to all the passages that contain the selected word(s). By highlighting the desired reference, you can view the text itself. Paging forward or backward will allow you to see more of the context of a passage. You can also excerpt desired passages and send them to a printer, disk, or word-processing file. Refer uses the latest computer technology to provide quick access to the ocean of Bahá’u’lláh’s writings in English, facilitating personal study and research. Compiling thematic extracts from the writings for Nineteen Day Feasts or other occasions becomes a simple task. Refer, however, does much more—its speed and convenience will allow you to chart your own path through the revelation of Bahá’u’lláh. The program is very user-friendly, however a user’s manual has also been provided to help with installation and offers suggestions for its use. Refer requires an IBM-compatible computer, 256k memory, hard disk, and DOS 3.0 or higher.

Seven 5-1/4 inch floppy disks, User’s manual Bahá’í Publishing Trust of the United States

Creating Patterns of Unity: Getting Beyond Prejudice and Racism

Study Guide by National Race Unity Committee Index by Frances Worthington SC Price To Be Announced

Creating Patterns of Unity offers a systematic, four-step method for studying the material found in The Power of Unity through prayer, meditation, study, and action. Using the guide will help you to develop a devotional attitude toward the study of unity. It provides an organized, consistent, and intensive study method for individuals, communities, and institutions. Creating Patterns of Unity will also help you to facilitate a broader understanding of the many implications of “the most vital and challenging issue” of prejudice and racism. It will strengthen your commitment to internalizing the changes needed to establish race unity. In addition, it will assist you to find ways to fulfill that commitment by working to apply those changes in your life and in the life of your community.

To make ‎studyeasier study easier‎, a 10-page index to The Power of Unity is included with the study guide, Creating Patterns of Unity. Prepared in collaboration with the National Race Unity Committee and published for the first time, the index is an invaluable aid in locating specific issues relating to unity, racism, and prejudice.

8-1/2 x 11 inches, 51 pages Bahá’í Publishing Trust of the United States

Nabil’s Narrative, Abridged

by Zena Sorabjee SC $4.50

An abridged edition of The Dawn-Breakers, Nabil’s remarkable eyewitness account of the early years of the Bahá’í Era. Condensed to 191 highly readable pages, children, youth, and adults will enjoy the thrilling accounts of sacrifices of the early believers.

8 x 5-1/4 inches, 191 pages, 56 black and white photographs Bahá’í Publishing Trust of India

The Advent of Divine Justice

PS $4.95

This famous letter to the American Bahá’í community sets forth the spiritual prerequisites for success in every activity of the Faith. In the preface, Hand of the Cause of God Paul Haney states that the letter explains clearly “the true purpose of our Faith, of America’s spiritual destiny, and the manner in which the individual believer is called upon to contribute to the achievement of this destiny, both on the homefront and in foreign fields of service”—a destiny which is clearly linked to the establishment of Bahá’u’lláh’s World Order throughout the world. First published 1939, near the beginning the first Seven Year Plan, The Advent of Divine Justice outlines the first step in the implementation of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Divine Plan. 4-1/4 x 7 inches, 91 pages, preface, index

Bahá’í Publishing Trust of the United States

From Haitian Roots

by U.S. Bahá’í Media Services VT $25.00-VHS

Documentary on social and economic development in Haiti shows how belief in Bahá’u’lláh and the application of Bahá’í principles are transforming daily life in this rural island setting. The fast moving, 20-minute video portrays the successes of rural schools, health care clinics, and economic development projects with use of consultation and other Bahá’í principles. This video will be of particular interest to seekers who want to know how the Bahá’í Faith can solve social problems. Co-produced by the National Spiritual Assemblies of Haiti and the United States.

Bahá’í Publishing Trust of the United States

Unless and Until A Bahá’í Focus on the Environment

by Arthur Lyon Dahl SC $10.95

Dr. Dahl scientifically analyses environmental issues and spells out in concise and unmistakable terms the immediate threats to the life-giving fabric of our fragile earth. Focusing on the need to transform our values and behavior, Unless and Until sets out an agenda for change that is both visionary and practical and that emphasizes the need for harmony between faith and science in our approach to global problems. 5-1/2 x 8-1/2, 96 pages

Bahá’í Publishing Trust of the United Kingdom

Bahá’í Wall Calendar, 148 B.E.

CA $3.00

In celebration of the opening of the south wing of the House of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Páshá, the Bahá’í Wall Calendar for 148 B.E. features a stunning full color photograph by Lacey Crawford of the main hall of the south wing of this historical house occupied by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Some of the most poignant, dramatic, and historically significant events of the Heroic Age of our Faith are associated with this house, including the celebrated table talks of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, later compiled and published as Some Answered Questions, His penning of His Will and Testament, the receiving of the historic first group of pilgrims from the West in 1898-99, and the birth of the beloved Guardian, Shoghi Effendi.

Bahá’í Pocket Calendar, 148 B.E.

CA $2.50/pkg. 10

This credit-card size calendar allows you to have a Bahá’í calendar any place you need one:—in your wallet, on your desk, in your car, in special folders, or on your refrigerator. Though small in size, this calendar features 12 Gregorian months on the front, including Bahá’í Feasts, Holy Days, Naw-Rúz, and the period of the Fast. The price of this convenient calendar has been reduced this year by $1.00 from last year’s price.

Bahá’í Datebook, 148 B.E.

CA $3.75

The Bahá’í Datebook for 148 B.E. is now more useful than ever. It includes 15 Gregorian months, beginning with January 1991 and ending with March 1992. The Gregorian dates have been enlarged for greater legibility. All Bahá’í Holy Days and Nineteen Day Feasts are shaded to stand out clearly. This compact, pocket-size calendar is an invaluable, easy-to-use tool for keeping track of your daily, weekly, and monthly schedule, within the rhythm of the Bahá’í year.

Bahá’í Publishing Trust of the United States

Asking Questions: A Challenge to Fundamentalism

by Bahiyyih Nakhjavani SC $9.95

Presented as essays, Asking Questions is a personal exploration of Bahá’í history. They are reflections on whether religious habits are immutable or might be changed, and they are meditations on what might be intrinsic to this Faith that both teaches us about the dangers and guards us against the tendencies of fundamentalist habits of mind.

Dr. Nakhjavani challenges fundamentalist thinking by asking questions about: scholarship, priestcraft, fear, freedom, women, the law, and about the nature of fundamentalism itself. Asking Questions will prove to be a valuable tool for all those concerned with the impact of fundamentalist thought.

4-3/4 x 7-1/4 inches, 172 pages, introduction, bibliography, references George Ronald, Publishers

Contact your Local Bahá’í Distribution Representative, or send your order with payment to 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091

Order now through the Bahá’í Distribution Service • 1-800-999-9019 [Page 5]

Education of Every Child, Youth and Adult

NEW MATERIALS FOR CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES, REFERENCING, & STUDY

The Garden of Bahá’u’lláh Visual Lessons for the Study of the Bahá’í Faith Written by Peter Oldziey; Illustrated by Elaine Phillips SC $7.95 A book of short and simple 2-page lessons on the Bahá’í Faith. Concepts are introduced with brief commentary, an action from the Bahá’í writings, the main thought, questions for discussion, and a black-and-white illustration. Each lesson is self-contained and can be studied in any order. The nine chapters focus on the history and development of the Bahá’í Faith, its laws and teachings, and the spiritual foundations of its organization and administration. The Garden of Bahá’u’lláh is a multipurpose tool for personal study, for use as a class text or for informal groups of a variety of ages. 8-1/2 x 11 inches, 182 pages Bahá’í Publishing Trust of India

The Bahá’í Teachings A Resurgent Model of the Universe by B. Hoff Conow SC $13.50 This is a thought-provoking, philosophical treatment of many of the major spiritual ideas found in the Bahá’í writings, such as the concept of God, the purpose of Revelation, the nonexistence of evil, and standards of perfection. Based on ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s description of the journey of the atom from the mineral kingdom to the vegetable kingdom and from there to the animal and human kingdoms, Ms. Conow demonstrates how the Bahá’í Faith provides a model for both the physical and spiritual universes. The Bahá’í Teachings offers answers to such basic questions as, “How can we understand the physical universe?” “What of the spiritual universe of the soul?” “How are these two connected?” and, “What can we know about this connection?” The Bahá’í Teachings is an excellent source of information for those who wish to deepen their knowledge of the Bahá’í concept of the spiritual universe or to sharpen their ability to convey these concepts to others. 6-1/4 x 9 inches, 172 pages, introduction, references, bibliography George Ronald, Publishers

Prelude to The Lesser Peace Written and compiled by Kathy Lee SC $6.00 Quoting extensively from the Bahá’í writings, Ms. Lee offers fresh perspectives and insights about the changes the world must undergo to achieve the peace prophesied in the Bahá’í writings. Divided into ten chapters, each has several sections that organize material from the writings in an easy-to-study form. In providing a perspective on the process of achieving peace, Ms. Lee hopes the friends will gain a greater understanding of their roles and those of their Bahá’í communities in bringing about a peaceful society. 5-1/2 x 8-1/2, 194 pages, bibliography Bahá’í Publishing Trust of India

Trends in Bahá’í Education Proceedings of the 2nd Symposium on Bahá’í Education, 1989 Edited by Hooshang Nikjoo SC $16.50 Universal education raises profound questions about the purpose of human life and the needs of the individual, the family, and the community. Some of these questions are: the spiritual and material aims in education, coping with conflict, rote learning of Bahá’í scriptures, and the role of adult training and education in building a new world order. It is in answer to these questions that two symposia on Bahá’í Education were held. The proceedings of the second symposium are published from invited and submitted papers presented during the plenary sessions. The authors have addressed a number of key questions, all of which are important for the successful development of a Bahá’í education curriculum, and which also have a significant bearing on the philosophy and practice of Bahá’í education in general. 6 x 9 inches, 238 pages, preface, introduction, references Bahá’í Publishing Trust of the United Kingdom

Names and Numbers A Bahá’í History Reference Guide by Elias Zohoori SC $19.95 An extremely useful reference book that compiles historical data on the Central Figures of the Faith and the Guardian. It lists the exiles who accompanied Bahá’u’lláh to Akká, the Letters of the Living, the Seven Martyrs of Tehran, the Knights of Bahá’u’lláh, and many others. Many illustrations and photographs are included—of Bahá’u’lláh’s family, of Hands of the Cause of God, Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, Disciples of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Kings and Rulers addressed by Bahá’u’lláh. Names and posts of Knights of Bahá’u’lláh are also listed, as is a chronology of some of the persecutions of the believers in Iran from 1844 to 1989.

Names and Numbers is a convenient and easy reference book for Bahá’í scholars, students, writers, lecturers, teachers, and believers at large. It will be especially useful for preparing papers and talks about the Faith and Bahá’í education. 6 x 9 inches, 271 pages, 84 illustrations, appendix of oriental terms, transliterations, definitions Bahá’í Literature Committee of Jamaica

RECENT PUBLICATIONS FOR STUDY OF THE FAITH

Winning Spiritual Battles by Nat Rutstein SC $4.50 Writing in his unique style, Mr. Rutstein shares his perspective on the individual’s struggle to put into practice the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh. In the form of 28 short stories, Mr. Rutstein illustrates how people from various walks of life have dealt with real-life experiences about humility, sacrifice, teaching, tests, faith, fear of God, backbiting, patience, and the like. Winning Spiritual Battles will interest both youth and adults. 5-1/8 x 8 inches, 174 pages, references and notes Bahá’í Publishing Trust of India

Career Planning—In Search of a Spiritually Satisfying Career by Robert Farley, M.D., M.P.H SC $1.50 Written for the person who wishes to define and achieve career goals in contrast to the material goals of stability, money, or social status. This booklet provides penetrating observations concerning the sometimes perplexing decisions involved in determining a career path. Written in colloquial language, Career Planning will be helpful to youth considering their future careers and to adults contemplating life-style changes. 5-1/2 x 8-1/4, 34 pages Bahá’í Publishing Trust of India

NEW TITLES — OUT OF PRINT — NOTICES

New Titles Spanish

(Prices to be announced if not listed) Religión para la Humanidad Reflexiones Sobre la Paz Puerta de la Enseñanza Oración: Un Enfoque Bahá’í Honradez Enseñando la Causa de Dios Primeros Creyentes / $5.95

French

Bahá’u’lláh et la Nouvelle Ere / $15.50 La Foi Bahá’í - Faizi / $ TBA Nouveau Jardin / $7.95 Paroles Cachées (Hidden Words) / $10.50 Prières et Meditations / $6.50 Promesse de la Paix Mondiale $3.95

Out of Print

Family Life, SC—UK Story of Stories, SC—UK Inspiring the Heart, HC—UK Thief in the Night, SC—George Ronald

Notices

We regret to announce that there has been a delay in the availability of Hands On: Activities for Children from the Louhelen Bahá’í School. Due to production difficulties, this title has not been received. We are, however, accepting backorders on this title, as it is expected by mid-November.

The Distribution Service has been advised of a 10 percent increase in the cost of all titles published by the Bahá’í Publishing Trust of Taiwan. Prices have been adjusted to reflect this increase. The crisis in the Middle East is affecting the cost of Bahá’í literature imported from other parts of the world. Shipping costs are increasing as fuel prices increase. The value of currency is fluctuating, reflecting the increased instability in global affairs. As always, the Bahá’í Distribution Service will do what it can to ensure that Bahá’í literature is available at affordable prices. We regret that prices may change due to this unstable international situation.

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Order now through the 1-800-999-9019 Bahá’í Distribution Service [Page 6]

Time to assess progress in meeting pioneering goals

PIONEERING

"... Though the ultimate blessings that must crown the consummation of your mission be undoubted, and the Divine promises given you firm and irrevocable, yet the measure of the goodly reward which every one of you is to reap must depend on the extent to which your daily exertions will have contributed to the expansion of that mission and the hastening of its triumph."—Shoghi Effendi, The Advent of Divine Justice, p. 16

With only 16 months remaining until the end of the Six Year Plan and the commencement of our Holy Year, the time has come to assess our progress in meeting the pioneering goals assigned to our community by the Universal House of Justice.

Of the 77 goals assigned to the U.S. at the beginning of the Six Year Plan, 20 remain to be filled: three in Africa—St. Helena, Namibia and Venda; and 17 in the Americas—the British Virgin Islands, Chile (Juan Fernandez Islands), Dominica, French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Honduras (Bay Islands), Jamaica, St. Lucia, Suriname and Uruguay.

The Universal House of Justice, in its letter dated September 7, 1989 addressed to all National Spiritual Assemblies, reminded us that "there remains ... the immediate task ... to fill the posts remaining vacant from the original pioneer call and, ... to increase the flow of long-term pioneers to needy areas ..."

In that same message, the Supreme Body called on our community to fulfill 708 months of service in "a range of short-term pioneer projects during the remaining years of the Six Year Plan."

"Far-reaching events being enacted world stage, particularly in Eastern Europe and Soviet Union, on threshold final fate-laden decade Century of Light, provide further dramatic evidence resistless operation of God’s major Plan for transformation of human society. Rapid unforeseen developments necessitate corresponding parallel acceleration in life-giving enterprises being pursued by inheritors Bahá’u’lláh’s resplendent Revelation." (The Universal House of Justice, from a cable dated February 8, 1990, to the followers of Bahá’u’lláh throughout the world)

Bahá’u’lláh has exhorted those who are unable to arise personally to deputize another to go in their stead. Contributions to our National Fund earmarked for deputization will help place pioneers in goal areas.

This is the time for us to play an ever greater role in the life-fulfilling transformation and spiritualization of our global community.

The Universal House of Justice closed its message of September 7, 1989, by assuring us of its prayers in the Holy Shrines that "the believers in every land will arise with increasing determination to speed the process of entry by troops and the establishment of firmly grounded, efficiently functioning local Spiritual Assemblies."

TRAVELING TEACHERS

Area/Country	Goal	Filled
Ukraine	100	60
Kazakhstan	6	0
USSR (other Republics)	150	25
Bulgaria	5	1
Czechoslovakia	30	11
GDR/East Germany	10	0
Hungary	35	5
Poland	15	2
Romania	10	1
Yugoslavia	40	2
Mongolia	4	0
China	35	26

Bahá’í Equality Conference held in Seneca Falls, N.Y.

The Bahá’í Equality Conference was held again this year as a part of the annual Seneca Falls (New York) Convention Days celebration.

Convention Days commemorates the first women’s rights conference in the U.S., organized in July 1848 by such feminists as Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton.

The Bahá’í conference included a keynote address by Dr. Anne Breneman, secretary of the National Education Committee, and workshops on a number of topics of interest to women.

Bahá’ís in Smithtown, New York, recently set up and manned this display table at a local shopping mall to offer literature and information about the Faith to residents in the area.

TWO YEAR PLAN: U.S. PIONEERING GOALS

August 1990

Long-Term Pioneers	Goal	Pioneers Sent	Open Goals
Bulgaria	1	0	1
Czechoslovakia	4	3	1
GDR (East Germany)	2	2	0
Hungary	2	0	2
Poland	1	1	0
‎Rumania Romania‎	1	0	1
USSR
Ukraine	2	2	0
‎Khazakhstan Kazakhstan‎	2	0	2
Other Republics	2	0	2
Yugoslavia	2	1	1
China	2	2	0
Totals	21	13	10

Short-Term Pioneers	Goal	Pioneers Sent	Open Goals
Bulgaria	2	0	2
Czechoslovakia	4	0	4
GDR (East Germany)	2	0	2
Hungary	2	0	2
Poland	2	0	2
‎Rumania Romania‎	1	1	0
USSR
Ukraine	4	0	4
‎Khazakhstan Kazakhstan‎	2	0	2
Other Republics	4	1*	3
Yugoslavia	4	0	4
Mongolia	1	0	1
China	4	0	4
Totals	32	2	30

• Lithuania
• Includes Consolidation Goals

Bahá’ís have opportunity to travel to China

Opportunities exist for a limited number of Bahá’ís to travel to China in December 1990 and January 1991 and build upon contacts made with the Peoples Republic of China last June. On that occasion, women and men, including several Bahá’ís, attended the first Sino-American Conference on Women’s Issues, held in Beijing.

The conference offered a unique opportunity for Americans and Chinese to discuss the similarities and differences in their professional experiences. At its close, Madame Huang of the All China Women’s Federation suggested that those at the conference develop a Five Year Plan for continued dialogue and cooperation. The preliminary planning meeting is scheduled for January 1991 in Beijing. Simultaneously, those not taking part in the planning session, there will be sight-seeing in Beijing.

Immediately after the planning meeting, Juana Conrad, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly, and Fafar Guillebeaux, a member of the National Committee on Women, will lead visits to other cities. There are two itineraries from which to choose. Plan A, January 3-19, includes Beijing, Harbin, Kunming, Xian and Shanghai. Delegation leader: Juana Conrad. Plan B, December 24-January 10, includes Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Guilin, Nanjing and Beijing. Delegation leader: Fafar Guillebeaux.

There will be a number of non-Bahá’ís traveling with each group, and of course you will be free to teach them about the Faith. The Bahá’ís on the journey will be expected to adhere to guidelines established by the Universal House of Justice for the presentation of the Faith to Chinese in mainland China. No teaching campaign, as such, will be undertaken. A variety of opportunities will exist, however, for the travelers to make friends and acquaintances with whom some of the Bahá’í principles may be discussed. This dialogue may be continued by correspondence or later visits to China.

If you are interested in either of these itineraries, you are invited to phone Global Interactions Inc. at 1-800-922-9295 for costs and particulars. Please specify whether you are interested in the tour led by Mrs. Conrad or the one guided by Mrs. Guillebeaux. Also, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039) to inform them of your plans.

SIX YEAR PLAN TOTALS

Total Goals Assigned	77	Pioneers to Goal Countries	189*
Total Goals Filled	57	Pioneers to Non-Goals	348
Total Open Goals	20	Pioneers Filling Goals for Other Countries	8
		Total Pioneers Sent	545

• Includes Consolidation Goals

[Page 7]Attracting people of capacity and prominence to the Faith

Dear Bahá’í Friends,

The Universal House of Justice draws to your attention that part of the most recent Riḍván message in which the friends throughout the world are asked to focus on the need to attract people of capacity and prominence to the Faith. Because of the emphasis the House of Justice wishes the friends to place on this matter, the Research Department was asked to prepare a compilation of texts on the subject.

It is it ardent prayer of the House of Justice that careful study of the passages included will help the believers to appreciate the importance of fostering cordial relations with accomplished and distinguished figures, with people of capacity, and with those occupying prominent positions in society. The aim of the believers should be to make of them friends of the Faith, dispelling any misconceptions they may have and unfolding before their eyes the vision of world solidarity and peace enshrined in the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh. The friends should be confident that the spiritually minded and receptive souls among such people will eventually accept the truth of the Bahá’í Revelation and join the ranks of its active supporters.

With loving Bahá’í greetings,

Universal House of Justice Department of the Secretariat September 28, 1990

PROMINENT PEOPLE

Extracts from the Bahá’í Writings and letters written by or on behalf of Shoghi Effendi and the Universal House of Justice

Compiled by the Research Department of the Universal House of Justice September 1990

From the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

"I hope that thou wilt... endeavor to teach some high-ranking and influential persons, for the hearts of the people have become attracted to the Cause of God and their minds bewildered and enthralled by its awesome grandeur. Those who occupy high positions, too, have become profoundly receptive to its message. The loved ones of God should therefore make a determined effort and guide these distinguished souls to the Cause." (From a Tablet to an individual believer, translated from the Persian)

"You should always seek to guide prominent people inasmuch as once such a person is regenerated he is likely to bring about the quickening of a thousand souls. Thus the spirit of truth would flow forth unimpeded into the veins and arteries of a multitude." (From a Tablet to an individual believer, translated from the Persian)

"Wherefore thou shouldst seek to impart the Message to influential persons and become a cause of guidance to the learned and distinguished, that perchance there may be raised up in Iran wise, sagacious souls who shall be solicitous for both the good of the state and the welfare of the populace, who shall labor diligently night and day to the end that their great nation may retrieve its former glory and restore for all the world to see the splendor of the Kiyániyán kings, and that its illustrious people may shine out amongst mankind with an extraordinary brilliance and attain to lasting happiness and contentment. (From a Tablet to a group of believers, translated from the Persian)

"You should give serious concern to the matter of teaching, and think of ways of imparting the Message to prominent people, for once such persons have given their allegiance to the Faith they will cause the people to be led, troop after troop, to the wellspring of unfailing guidance." (From a Tablet to an individual believer, translated from the Persian)

From letters written by or on behalf of Shoghi Effendi

"It is incumbent upon the Bahá’ís to seize the opportunities of the present hour and, with wisdom, firm resolve and cheerfulness, impress the verities of their Faith upon the attention of every reasonable-minded person in whom they find a willingness to listen, explaining to them its noble principles, its universal teachings, its basic tenets, and the fundamental laws of the new era inaugurated by Bahá’u’lláh. In like manner, they must clearly and convincingly demonstrate to their fellow-citizens, whether high or low, the necessity of accepting and recognizing the resplendent teachings of the Universal Manifestation of God; must show to the leaders of their country that the unity, the strength and spiritual vitality of the Bahá’í community are palpable and concrete realities; must eliminate and nullify the effects of prejudices, superstitions, misunderstandings and all fanciful and erroneous conceptions on the hearts of the pure and righteous people; and must attract to the community of the Greatest Name, through whatever channels and by whatever means, persons of capacity, experience and devotion who, joining the ranks of the believers, severing themselves from every extraneous attachment, identifying themselves every extraneous attachment, identifying themselves whole-heartedly with the organized community of the Bahá’ís in that area, will labor heart and soul to consolidate the foundations of Bahá’í belief and proclaim the tidings of the Promised Day.

"With regard to the Bahá’í literacy classes, their continuation at the present time is a service beyond measure both profitable and desirable. Similarly, the establishment of contact and maintenance of friendly relations with government officials and other nationally distinguished figures is a matter that should be regarded by the friends as a binding obligation." (November 2, 1928, written by Shoghi Effendi to the Iran Central Spiritual Assembly, translated from the Persian)

"Shoghi Effendi was delighted to hear of your conversation with Sir.... How much he hopes to have such scholars obtain a true understanding of the spirit and teaching of the Cause and arise to dissipate that veil of misconceptions that is prejudicing the mind of the scholars in the western world. The Cause is in great need for such competent and spiritually minded men who after a thorough study of the Movement would share with the world the fruit of their labors." (March 11, 1929, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi)

"... he feels that the great point is to confirm people of true capacity and ability—from whatever social stratum they may be—because the Cause needs now, and will ever-increasingly need, souls of great ability who can bring it before the public at large, administer its ever-growing affairs, and contribute to its advancement in every field." (October 30, 1941, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi)

"The more people of capacity who accept the Faith, the higher will become the standard of the entire group." (June 17, 1942, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi)

"The Cause of God has room for all. It would, indeed, not be the Cause of God if it did not take in and welcome everyone—poor and rich, educated and ignorant, the unknown, the prominent—God surely wants them all, as He created them all." (December 10, 1942, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi)

"He was very pleased to learn. . . that your reception was such a success, and that you now feel that people in high places are beginning to waken from their sleep and see the Light of Bahá’u’lláh. The time must come when they do; it just seems a question of how soon.

"A lot, also, depends on our having inside the Faith enough people of real capacity to form a nucleus that will attract to it similar souls.... (November 22, 1949, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi)

"He hopes that your contact with Chief will prove fruitful, and that his heart may open to the Message you have carried him, It would be a great asset to the Faith if a prominent Chief of some tribe should accept it and arise to serve it." (May 31, 1952, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi)

From letters written by the Universal House of Justice

"... one of the most important duties of each National Spiritual Assembly is to acquaint leaders of thought and prominent men and women in its country with the fundamental aims, the history and the present status and achievements of the Cause. Such an activity must be carried out with the utmost wisdom, discretion and dignity." (July 2, 1967, to all National Spiritual Assemblies, published in Wellspring of Guidance: Messages 1963-1968, lst rev. ed. Wilmette: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1976, p. 117)

"The paramount goal of the teaching work at the present time is to carry the message of Bahá’u’lláh to every stratum of human society and every walk of life. An eager response to the teachings will often be found in the most unexpected quarters, and any such response should be quickly followed up, for success in a fertile area awakens a response in those who were at first uninterested.

"The same presentation of the teachings will not appeal to everybody; the method of expression and the approach must be varied in accordance with the outlook and interests of the hearer. An approach which is designed to appeal to everybody will usually result in attracting the middle section, leaving both extremes untouched. No effort must be spared to ensure that the healing Word of God reaches the rich and the poor, the learned and the illiterate, the old and the young, the devout and the atheist, the dweller in the remote hills and islands, the inhabitant of the teeming cities, the suburban businessman, the laborer in the slums, the nomadic tribesman, the farmer, the university student; all must be brought consciously within the teaching plans of the Bahá’í community." (October 31, 1967, to all National Spiritual Assemblies, published in Wellspring of Guidance: Messages 1963-1968, p. 124)

"There have been notable advances in the process of gaining wider recognition for the Cause of God and in fostering cordial relations with civil authorities, a matter of vital importance in these days when there is a growth of opposition to the Faith from those who, misconstruing its true nature and aims, take alarm at its progress." (Riḍván 1978 to the International Bahá’í Convention)

"Yet these disasters have called forth fresh energies in the hearts of the friends, have fed the deep roots of the Cause and given rise to a great harvest of signal victories. Chief among these are the successful conclusion of the Five Year Plan; the launching of the Seven Year Plan, now in the final year of its second phase; and unprecedented proclamation of the Faith to Heads of States, parliaments and parliamentarians, government ministers and officials, leaders of thought and people prominent in the professions, resulting in a change of attitude on the part of the mass media, which now increasingly approach us for information about the Cause....

"The growing maturity of a world-wide religious community which all these processes indicate is further evidenced in the reaching out, by a number of national communities, to the social and economic life of their countries, exemplified by the founding of tutorial schools, the inception of radio stations, the pursuit of rural development programs and the operation of medical and agricultural schemes. To these early beginnings must be added the undoubted skills acquired, as a result of the Iranian crisis, in dealing with international organizations, national governments and the mass media—the very elements of society with which it must increasingly collaborate toward the realization of peace on earth." (Riḍván 1983 to the Bahá’ís of the world)

"The entrance of the Cause onto the world scene is apparent from a number of public statements in which we have been characterized as 'model citizens, gentle,' 'law-abiding,' 'not guilty of any political offense or crime'; all excellent but utterly inadequate

1. To Individual believers unless otherwise noted. 2. The "loss of six Hands of the Cause" and the "waves of bitter persecution" directed against the Bahá’í community in Iran. [Page 8]to speak at your meetings. This is an effective way to make these take an active part in promoting the Faith and increasing their knowledge of its spirit and basic teachings.

"Shoghi Effendi hopes that some day they will come forward as devoted servants and consecrate their lives to it.... there are distinguished men who are friends and admirers of the Cause, but due to their natural conservative and cautious attitude towards anything new, prefer to be onlookers than passionate advocates. They cannot however keep on that dispassionate state of mind, some day they will feel unwittingly drawn into it.

From the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

"For we, the followers of the Blessed Beauty, should all be engaged in the service of the Cause of God, and become sources of guidance to humanity. Thou shouldst, if thou deemest it advisable and possible, proceed forthwith to organize a meeting of dignitaries. And when thy distinguished guests have assembled, speak to them about the Cause. Thou shouldst likewise advise the friends to arrange for another meeting with these same persons to be held one evening and to be addressed by them. This is a great service that I am entrusting to thee, and I pray to God that He may grant thee His assistance and confirmation, and bestow His blessings upon thy family." (From a Tablet to an individual believer, translated from the Persian)

insofar as the reality of the Faith and its aims and purposes are concerned. Nevertheless people are willing to hear about the Faith, and the opportunity must be seized. Persistently greater and greater efforts must be made to acquaint the leaders of the world, in all departments of life, with the true nature of Bahá’u’lláh’s revelation as the sole hope for the pacification and unification of the world. Simultaneous with such a program must be unabated, vigorous pursuit such a program must be unabated, vigorous pursuit of the teaching work, so that we may be seen to be a growing community, while universal observance by the friends of the Bahá’í laws of personal living will assert the fullness of, and arouse a desire to share in, the Bahá’í way of life. By all these means the public image of the Faith will become, gradually but constantly, nearer to its true character...

"There can be no doubt that the progress of the Cause from this time onward will be characterized by an ever-increasing relationship to the agencies, activities, institutions and leading individuals of the non-Bahá’í world. We shall acquire greater stature at the United Nations, become better known in the deliberations of governments, a familiar figure to the media, a subject of interest to academics, and inevitably the envy of failing establishments. Our preparation for and response to this situation must be a continual deepening of our faith, an unwavering adherence to its principles of abstention from partisan politics and freedom from prejudices, and above all an increasing understanding of its fundamental verities and relevance to the modern world." (Ridván 1984 to the Bahá’ís of the world)

From the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

"Some of the loved ones should establish ties of friendship with the notables of the region and manifest towards them the most affectionate regard. In this manner these men may become acquainted with the Bahá’í way of life, learn of the teachings of the Merciful One, and be informed of the pervasive influence of the Word of God in every quarter of the globe. If but one of these souls were attracted to the Cause, others would quickly be similarly moved, since the people tend to follow in the footsteps of their leaders." (From a Tablet to an individual believer, translated from the Persian)

"Ye should strive to widen the circle of those with whom ye enjoy friendly relations, and to establish the closest contact with those benevolent souls whose only thought is to do good, who are laboring in the cause of universal peace, and who cherish no desire but to witness the unification of the world of humanity. Ye should seek out the company of such people as these, that ye may imbue them with an awareness of the heavenly Kingdom, for albeit their motives are of the finest, yet they do not realize that all the powers of the earth are impotent either to establish universal peace or to promote the oneness of the human world. Nothing short of the power of the Word of God and the breaths of the Holy Spirit can ever succeed." (From a Tablet to a Spiritual Assembly, translated from the Persian)

From letters written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi

"Our Guardian hopes and prays that you will be guided in your endeavor to bring together at the banquet various prominent citizens of various races and religions with the sole purpose of winning them ultimately to the recognition of God's sacred Faith. You must stress the universal aspect of the Cause and show utmost kindness and love to them all as a preparation for their eventual acceptance of the entire truth." (October 8, 1927)

"Some of the items were of great interest to him, especially that part which told of the contacts you have made with distinguished men and invited them to speak at your meetings. This is an effective way to make these take an active part in promoting the Faith and increasing their knowledge of its spirit and basic teachings.

3. To individual believers unless otherwise noted.

"He is sending you two copies of 'The Dawn-Breakers' to be presented to two distinguished friends of the Cause. One of these he wants to be presented to Sir... in acknowledgement of the services he has rendered to us.... This is one form of keeping up the interest of such distinguished men in the progress of the Faith. Maybe one day they will take an active part." (May 6, 1932)

"He was also very pleased to see that the Cause is receiving newspaper publicity there, and that you are winning the sympathetic interest of editors and people of importance. The Faith needs friends as well as adherents, and you should always endeavor to attract the hearts of enlightened leaders to its teachings." (October 5, 1945, to a local Spiritual Assembly)

"There are, as you truly say, many important admirers of the Faith at present in the U.S.A.-and, indeed, in other countries, but it is unlikely such people will actually embrace the Cause; they are not ready to identify themselves with an as yet struggling Movement with a relatively small following; moreover, many such people would be unwilling to make the effort required to live up to Bahá’í standards of conduct! Still, it is excellent that we are winning more friends and admirers; this in itself helps the Cause and adds to its prestige, and gradually some of these people may actually make the sacrifice of entering its service." (February 25, 1947)

From letters written by or on behalf of Shoghi Effendi

"I do hope your passionate fervor, your mature experience and the ardor of your love will accomplish a great deal among the higher-class people with whom you associate. The Cause must capture the heights, and I look to you as the beloved and enthusiastic apostle of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to win to the Cause, cultured and capable souls. Be not disheartened and be assured of my constant loving prayers for the success of your much-valued efforts." (In the handwriting of Shoghi Effendi, appended to a letter dated April 2, 1925, written on his behalf)

"Ever since its inception Shoghi Effendi has cherished the hope of making it a work that would prove interesting and illuminating to the reader. Destined mainly for the non-Bahá’ís, he has tried to attract through its pages the attention of educated and enlightened people and especially leaders in every country, with a view to acquainting them with the broad and fundamental principles of the Faith and to winning their consideration of the Movement as a growing force for good and for peace throughout the entire world. It is therefore with lively satisfaction that he has seen the publication grow yearly in importance and this feeling has been lately enhanced very much by the words of interest and appreciation which he has received from many quarters and leading men, among which was a remarkably encouraging letter from Sir Herbert Samuel. Indeed Shoghi Effendi has made it a point to send copies to as many leading men as possible and copies of last year's issue were presented to the Emperor of Japan, the Shah of Persia and Queen Marie of Rumania." (December 12, 1929, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi)

From letters written by the Universal House of Justice

"He feels that the believers should make every effort, in the proper way and with discretion, to keep in contact with important people.... We should make every effort to ensure that leaders of thought in public life are not merely familiar with the name Bahá’í, but if possible stand in a cordial relationship to some members of our Community, if not to the body of the Faith." (February 18, 1951, to a National Spiritual Assembly)

"A very important activity which has been pursued effectively in all too few countries is the undertaking by the National Spiritual Assembly of a sustained, planned effort to foster cordial relations with prominent people and responsible government officials and to familiarize them personally with the basic tenets and the teachings of the Faith. Such an activity must be carried out with wisdom and discretion, and requires the constant attention of a responsible committee as well as periodic review by the National Spiritual Assembly itself. Where successful it can effectively forestall opposition to the Faith and smooth the way for many essential aspects of the development of the Bahá’í community. (Naw-Rúz 1974 to all National Spiritual Assemblies)

"The House of Justice feels that your National Assembly must do more than distribute printed information about the Faith, as valuable as this is. A beginning should be made to identify the prominent persons in your country and ways be found to meet with them personally to acquaint them with the Faith. To this end, the House of Justice again urges you to appoint a committee to investigate the possibilities. If the few prominent Bahá’ís... are too busy to assist, then you will have to either redirect their efforts or call others to this task." (August 22, 1984, to a National Spiritual Assembly)

From the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh

"Be righteous, O servants, in your actions! Turn not away from the helpless; make mention of Me amidst the great, and have no fear." (From a Tablet, translated from the Persian)

"As to teaching work in colleges and universities, this is very important, for students as a whole are open-minded and little influenced by tradition. They would easily enter the Cause if the subject is properly presented and their intellect and sentiments properly satisfied. This, however, should be attempted only by persons who have had university training and are therefore acquainted with the mind of the intelligent and educated youth." (February 3, 1932, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, published in Bahá’í News No. 64, July 1932, p. 4)

"The letter you addressed to the Secretary of State, he liked very much. He sincerely hopes that through such approaches and communications the authorities will come to take into consideration the importance of the Cause and gradually feel deep sympathy and admiration for its spirit. It is very important that they should know how we stand and what is our attitude towards some of the outstanding problems and issues that face the world in the present day. These are very difficult questions and most delicate, but the Master's spirit will surely guide you and inspire you to do what is proper and wise." (May 4, 1932, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to the National Spiritual Assembly of the U.S. and Canada)

"It is really strange how much modern thinkers are, of their own accord, drawing nearer to the teachings of the Faith and voicing views very much like ours. It shows clearly the truth of the saying of the Master that the spirit of the Movement has permeated the hearts of all the people of the world. It is

4. To individual believers unless otherwise noted. 5. The Bahá’í World. [Page 9]God’s hands operating and guiding the nations and intellectual men and leaders of society to a gradual acceptance of His Message revealed through Bahá’u’lláh.

"The way we can hasten the development of this process is by doing our share in spreading the words of God far and wide. Even though we may not see any case of sudden conversion on the part of these intellectuals, yet they are bound to be influenced in their views and look to the Faith with greater admiration and with a more willing desire to be led by its precepts. Shoghi Effendi, therefore, wishes me to encourage you in your work, in sending appropriate literature to such men of learning." (May 7, 1933, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi)

"Through the reading of such a challenging and scholarly work many will, undoubtedly, be awakened and stimulated, while others will be infuriated to the extent of virulently attacking the Faith. The unprecedented publicity which the Cause will be thus receiving will in itself constitute an important step towards a wider and fuller recognition of the Movement by distinguished personalities, in both intellectual and social circles." (May 15, 1934, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to a National Spiritual Assembly)

"Regarding your work with the upper classes, the Guardian quite agrees with you that the people of wealth and culture do sometimes have a great capacity for spiritual things. But they need the right type of people to approach them, and a method that can suit their mentality. Our teaching methods should allow a certain degree of elasticity in establishing contacts with various types of individual seekers. Every inquirer has to be approached from his own angle. Those who are essentially of the mystic type should first be given those teachings of the Cause which emphasize the nature and value of spiritual realities; while those who are practically minded and of a positive type are naturally more ready and inclined to accept the social aspect of the Teachings. But of course, gradually the entire Message, in all its aspects and with the full implications it entails, should be explained to the newcomer. For to be a believer means to accept the Cause in its wholeness, and not to adhere to some of its teachings. However, as already stated, this ought to be done gradually and tactfully. For conversion is after all a slow process." (December 28, 1936, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi)

"It is wonderful to see, at last, the intellectuals turning to the problems of the world and seeking to solve them. Side by side with this non-Bahá’í work, so close to many of Bahá’u’lláh’s teachings, we believers must carry on our purely Bahá’í work, which only we can do, and which has such tremendous implications for the future of humanity in every sphere." (April 14, 1947, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi)

"They must be neither provocative nor supine, neither fanatical or excessively liberal, in their exposition of the fundamental and distinguishing features of their Faith. They must be either wary or bold, they must act swiftly or mark time, they must use the direct or indirect method, they must be challenging receptivity of the soul with whom they come in contact, whether he be a nobleman or a commoner, a northerner or a southerner, a layman or a priest, a capitalist or a socialist, a statesman or a prince, an artisan or a beggar. In their presentation of the Message of Bahá’u’lláh they must neither hesitate nor falter. They must be neither contemptuous of the poor nor timid before the great. In their exposition of its verities they must neither overstress nor whittle down the truth which they champion, whether their hearer belong to royalty, or be a prince of the Church, or a politician, or a tradesman, or a man of the street. To all alike, high or low, rich or poor, they must proffer, with open hands, with a radiant heart, with an eloquent tongue, with infinite patience, with uncompromising loyalty, with great wisdom, with unshakeable courage, the Cup of Salvation, at so critical an hour, to the confused, the hungry, the distraught and fear-stricken multitudes...." (June 5, 1947, written by Shoghi Effendi to the Bahá’ís of the West, published in Citadel of Faith: Messages to America 1947-1957, Wilmette: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1980, pp. 25-26)

"The lack of prejudice, (for the most part) the true altruism of the pure scientist, is pretty well demonstrated, and to such people the Faith, if properly presented, should have a great appeal; and moreover such people could do tremendous things for the Cause if they joined it in numbers.

"There is certainly a place in the Cause for outstanding people, and we need more of them. But the administration must function on a consultative basis, not leadership." (July 5, 1947, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi)

"It seems what we need now is a more profound and coordinated Bahá’í scholarship in order to attract such men as you are contacting. The world tract such men as you are contacting. The world has-at least the thinking world-caught up by now with all the great and universal principles enunciated by Bahá’u’lláh over 70 years ago, and so of course it does not sound 'new' to them. But we know that the deeper teachings, the capacity of His projected World Order to re-create society, are new and dynamic. It is these we must learn to present intelligently and enticingly to such men! (July 3, 1949, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi)

"... the solution given to the world's problems by Bahá’u’lláh is the only solution-being Divine in origin-and most desperately needed; therefore we, the few who have caught the vision, should not waste our energies beating up and down the paths pursued by humanity, and which are not solving its ghastly present-day problems. We should concentrate on the Cause, because it is what is needed to cure the world. This is a sound attitude, for if we don't devote ourselves to the Bahá’í work and teaching, who will?

"On the other hand there is a big difference between this and learning. If the Bahá’ís want to be really effective in teaching the Cause they need to be much better informed and able to discuss intelligently, intellectually, the present condition of the world and its problems. We need Bahá’í scholars, not only people far, far more deeply aware of what our teachings really are, but also well-read and well-educated people, capable of correlating our teachings to the current thoughts of the leaders of society.

"We Bahá’ís should, in other words, arm our minds with knowledge in order to better demonstrate to, especially, the educated classes, the truths enshrined in our Faith. What the Guardian, however, does not advise the friends to do is to dissipate their time and energies in serving movements that are akin to our principles but not, we believe, capable of solving the present spiritual crisis the world finds itself in. We can cooperate with such movements and their promoters to good effect, while at the same time openly standing forth as Bahá’ís with a specific program to offer society." (July 5, 1949, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi)

"With the approach of the Year of Peace and the rapidly growing awareness among thinking people of the need for world-wide solutions to the problems threatening humankind, the House of Justice feels that there is a need for research and the writing of books and papers on subjects which are of immediate interest to the leaders of thought and the generality of mankind." (March 15, 1985, written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice to the Association for Bahá’í Studies, Canada)

"It was also mentioned that there was a need to reach leaders of thought and people in authority with the Teachings; that there is a tendency for the people to more readily accept new ideas if they have already been accepted by the upper echelons of society. If this is so, perhaps a viable program could be developed of inviting prominent Bahá’ís from other countries to visit... in order to contact prominent (individuals) of similar station or profession." (February 16, 1987, written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice to a National Spiritual Assembly)

"National Bahá’í communities have organized and successfully conducted inter-religious conferences, peace seminars, symposiums on racism and other subjects on which we have a specific contribution to make, often achieving widespread publicity and the interest of highly placed leaders of society." (Ridván 1987, written by the Universal House of Justice to the Bahá’ís of the world)

From letters written by or on behalf of Shoghi Effendi

"To approach such well-known and important persons is always an extremely delicate matter, since it requires a good deal of wisdom, courage and ability. But those friends who really feel the urge to do so, and possess the necessary qualifications, should cultivate such friendships which, if properly done, can be of an immense benefit to the Cause. In any case, however, the assistance and help of either the Local or the National Assembly is not only useful but fruitful and promising.

necessary, if important contacts of this sort are to be ten on behalf of Shoghi Effendi) ..." (August 30, 1933, writ-

.a resolute attempt should be made by the national elected representatives of the entire community, aided by their Public Relations, Race Unity, Public Meetings, Visual Education, College Speakers Bureau and Radio Committees, to reinforce the measures already adopted for the proclamation, through the press and radio, of the verities of the Faith to the masses, and for the establishment of closer contact with the leaders of public thought, with colleges and universities and with newspaper and magazine editors." (June 5, 1947, written by Shoghi Effendi to the Bahá’ís of the West, published in Citadel of Faith: Messages to America 1947-1957, pp. 8-9)

"The National Assembly should not be timid about trying to contact important visitors to.... The stature of the Faith is now such that its representatives can demand and receive attention. Whether they or conciliatory, in strict accordance with the spiritual obtaining publicity about the Faith in the national press in..., the House of Justice has instructed us to say that there are three courses of action which should assist you in achieving this in the future. First, it is important that there be certain believers, such as the members of a public information committee, who are given the task of cultivating personal contacts with influential figures in the national information media. This personal contact is a vital element in fostering the receptivity of the media to news about the Faith. Secondly, as an aid to promoting such links, your representatives could take with them examples of excellent material about the Faith that has been published in such important newspapers as Le Monde, The Times of London, and The New York Times. Thirdly, repeated mention of the Faith in the local press will contribute to the willingness of the national press to regard the Bahá’í Faith as news worthy material." (January 5, 1981, written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice to a National Spiritual Assembly)

6. George Townshend, The Promise of All Ages.

7. American pioneers.

... are always successful or not, is not the point; the point is to let people of importance realize we are active and on the world scene, so to speak." (November 23, 1951, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to a National Spiritual Assembly)

"The Guardian was very happy to see your Assembly had had a successful meeting with both the Mayor of ... and the Minister for Foreign Affairs; such important contacts should be carried out on a high level, and only believers able to perhaps offer hospitality or having some point of contact with the officials in question or being themselves attractive to meet, should be used by your Assembly, and in conjunction with your members, to meet such personages." (June 30, 1952, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to a National Spiritual Assembly)

"He feels that the time has now come when you should establish a national committee to make contacts with civil authorities on a national level, and with important public figures in State and large City administrations. The purpose of these contacts is to

From letters written by or on behalf of the Universal House of Justice

8. To individual believers unless otherwise noted. [Page 10]

BAHÁ’Í NATIONAL REVIEW

November 1990 No. 130

establish friendly relations with important public figures, so that they may be fully informed of the Faith and its principles, may gain confidence in the Bahá’ís and their activities, may understand the non-political aspect of the Faith, and in the future, be anxious to be of assistance to us as the Faith evolves." (December 29, 1953, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to a National Spiritual Assembly)

From letters written by or on behalf of the Universal House of Justice

"National Spiritual Assemblies must promote wise and dignified approaches to people prominent in all areas of human endeavor, acquainting them with the nature of the Bahá’í community and the basic tenets of the Faith, and winning their esteem and friendship." (Naw-Rúz 1979, written by the Universal House of Justice to the Bahá’ís of the world)

...the House of Justice is extremely happy that your National Assembly is continuing its wise, effective and ongoing efforts to familiarize the officials in your country about the Faith. Such approaches should be planned whenever the occasion arises. In the meantime, through your various proclamation efforts, the Bahá’í community should indirectly draw the attention of people of all strata of society to the Cause so that it will be easier for the Bahá’ís to have a positive access to the officials in the time of need. (July 26, 1987, written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice to a National Spiritual Assembly)

"The spark which ignited the mounting interest in the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh was the heroic fortitude and patience of the beloved friends in Iran, which moved the Bahá’í world community to conduct a persistent, carefully orchestrated program of appeal to the conscience of the world. This vast undertaking involving the entire community acting unitedly through its Administrative Order was accompanied by equally vigorous and visible activities of that community in other spheres which have been detailed separately. Nonetheless, we are impelled to mention that an important outcome of this extensive exertion is our recognition of a new stage in the external affairs of the Cause, characterized by a marked maturation of National Spiritual Assemblies in their growing relations with governmental and non-governmental organizations and with the public in general.

"This recognition prompted a meeting in Germany last November of national Bahá’í external affairs representatives from Europe and North America, together with senior representatives of the Offices of the Bahá’í International Community, intent on effecting greater coordination of their work. This was a preliminary step towards the gathering of more and more National Spiritual Assemblies into a harmoniously functioning international network capable of executing global undertakings in this rapidly expanding field. Related to these developments was the significant achievement of international recognition accorded the Faith through its formal acceptance last October into membership of the Network on Conservation and Religion of the renowned World Wide Fund for Nature." (Ridván 1988, written by the Universal House of Justice to the Bahá’ís of the world)

2.4 The 'course of prudence'

From the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

"... thou shouldst initially adopt that course of prudence that the Faith enjoins. In the early stages, thou shouldst seek out the company of the eminent members of the populace and, turning thyself in utter lowliness to the unseen realm of Glory, thou shouldst pray for succor and protection so that the Holy Spirit may, through the outpourings of its grace, grant thee its assistance. When, by thy godly conduct and demeanor, thy fervor, thy chaste and lucid utterance, thou shalt have succeeded in winning the affection of one and all, then shall the portals of heavenly guidance be opened wide; then shall the bounteous cup be borne around and all the souls that drink therefrom be inebriated with the wine of holy mysteries and truths." (From a Tablet to an individual believer, translated from the Persian)

tailed analysis of a situation, 'needlessly alienate or estrange any government or people,' or involve the Faith in 'the base clamorings and contentions of warring sects, factions and nations."" (November 21, 1971, to an individual believer)

From letters written by or on behalf of Shoghi Effendi

"You mentioned in your letter your intention to make contact with the representatives of movements which are akin to the Cause in the principles they advocate. Shoghi Effendi trusts that in all such communications and activities you would maintain the prestige and superiority of the Cause. We should never compromise our principles for some temporary benefits we are apt to reap. It is very important to bring the Cause to the attention of such leaders of thought and for this purpose we have to get in touch with them, but our aim should be to draw them to the Cause rather than follow their footsteps." (November 29, 1926, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to a National Spiritual Assembly)

"I entirely agree with you that non-interference in politics does not imply non-association on the part of the friends with the outside world. I hope you will impress the friends with the necessity of maintaining close, but not too intimate, relationships with the authorities, the foreign representatives, and the leaders of public thought in the capital. They should be on their guard, however, lest too close an association should lead, imperceptibly, to compromise on the principles which we cherish and uphold. They must mix with all classes of society without associating themselves with their policies and schemes." (In the handwriting of Shoghi Effendi, appended to a letter dated October 8, 1927, written on his behalf)

"It is our supreme obligation to endeavor to bring the knowledge of this Revelation to the highest authorities and the leading personalities among our countrymen, but to refrain from associating our selves or identifying our Faith with their political pursuits, their conflicting ambitions and party programs. May the Almighty guide and sustain your high endeavors, and enable you to win for His Cause the most capable, the most virtuous and the most enlightened leaders of public opinion in that land." (In the handwriting of Shoghi Effendi, appended to a letter of April 15, 1932, written on his behalf)

"Shoghi Effendi fully approves your meeting of important men who are in power and have the reins of government in their hands. In fact he would urge you to avail yourself of every such opportunity that, presents itself. But you should be very careful not to discuss matters that are political and that are points of contention between the different parties. That would drag the Cause into political affairs, a thing which was strictly forbidden by the Master. Your concern in meeting such people should be to familiarize them with the teachings of the Cause and imbue them with the spirit of the Movement. Should such men embrace the Movement they would lead with themselves thousands of others into the Cause." (April 15, 1932, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi)

From a letter written by the Universal House of Justice

"It is perfectly in order for Bahá’í institutions to present the Bahá’í view or recommendations on any subject of vital interest to the Faith which is under the consideration of a government, if the governmental authority itself invites such a submission, or if it is open to receive recommendations. The Bahá’í Assemblies should, however, refrain from bringing pressure to bear on the authorities in such matters, either separately or in concert with others. The Bahá’ís will submit their views, if permissible, expressing them as cogently and forcefully as the occasion warrants, but will not go beyond this to the stage of pressing the authorities to adopt those views. More over, when considering whether or not it is wise to make such a submission on any particular matter, the Bahá’í Assembly concerned must take care that it will not diffuse the energies of the community or divert its resources by making submissions unless the interests of the Faith demand it. Likewise the Assembly must ensure that it does not, by any minute and de-

9. To individual believers unless otherwise noted.

From letters written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice

"The House of Justice received your letter of December 13, 1986, inquiring about permissible activities of the Bahá’ís in relation towards governments...

"The general policy already enunciated by Shoghi Effendi in The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, pages 63-67, should be scrupulously upheld by the friends. However, as the Faith emerges from obscurity, the application of certain aspects of this policy will require the clarification of the House of Justice. With the passage of time, practices in the political realm will definitely undergo the profound changes anticipated in the Bahá’í writings. As a consequence, what we understand now of the policy of non-involvement in politics will also undergo a change; but as Shoghi Effendi has written, this instruction, 'at the present stage of the evolution of our Faith, should be increasingly emphasized, irrespective of its application to the East or to the West."

"In view of the necessity of the Bahá’í community to relate to governments, whether for reasons of defending its persecuted members or of responding to opportunities to be of service, a correct understanding of what is legitimate Bahá’í action in the face of the policy of non-interference with government affairs is bound to be difficult to achieve on the part of individual friends. The force of circumstances, operating internally and externally, is pressing the Bahá’í community into certain relationships with governments. Hence, it is important that decisions as to the conduct of such relationships be made by authorized institutions of the Faith and not by individuals. In matters of this kind, given the utter complexity of human affairs with which the Bahá’í community must increasingly cope both spiritually and practically, individual judgment is not sufficient." (June 23, 1987, to an individual believer)

"This is a field of service in which much latitude for initiative must be given to individuals. For instance, in that aspect of the work which calls for reaching very important persons, it is necessary to rely on the personal relationships which individual Bahá’ís have developed or are capable of developing, to rely on their ability to engage the attention of such persons, because these Bahá’ís are themselves attractive in particular ways. While exercising careful judgment in selecting the individuals you can call on for such services, and providing them with any necessary guidance, you must also be sensitive to these points and avoid excessive control, or even the appearance of it, in your dealings with those who are engaged in these important services." (April 26, 1988, to a National Spiritual Assembly)

"Your comments concerning the maintenance of contacts with officials in the lower level of your government's hierarchy are well taken, and you should feel confident in pursuing this wise course of action.

"There is no objection to initiating contact with high officials of the Catholic Church. This would require your careful consideration as to the timeliness of such action and determination by you as to how to proceed without unduly arousing opposition to the Faith.

"Your Assembly is encouraged to establish contacts with national associations, bearing in mind the need to select such organizations wisely, so as not to stretch your human and financial resources beyond reasonable bounds or to distract the community from its primary teaching efforts. As this balance is sometimes difficult to achieve, you may wish to include this as an element of your consultation with the Counselors on the role of... in the process of the Faith's emergence from obscurity in Latin America and the world." (March 23, 1989, to a National Spiritual Assembly)

"O loved ones of God! Each one of the friends must teach at least one soul each year. This is everlasting glory. This is eternal grace." —‘Abdu’l-Bahá, The Individual and Teaching, p. 13 [Page 11]

Bahá’ís are active at UN's World Summit on Children

On September 29-30, 70 world leaders gathered at the United Nations in New York City for the first World Summit for Children.

The main purpose of the Summit was to take steps on national, regional and international levels to improve child and maternal health, combat malnutrition and illiteracy, and eliminate diseases that kill millions of children each year.

Although not directly involved in the Summit itself, the Bahá’í International Community (BIC) and U.S. Bahá’í offices in New York worked in a number of ways as participants, by providing a service, or in leadership roles to “carry the healing Message of Bahá’u’lláh to the generality of mankind” before, during and after the Summit.

Daniel Wegener, representative to the UN for the BIC, chaired one of the sessions at a conference of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) which preceded the Summit.

Jan Smith, BIC staff writer/editor, and Zeena Arturo, administrative assistant to the National Spiritual Assembly’s UN representative, were rapporteurs for two of the working sessions, while Hugh Locke of the BIC’s Office of Public Information was the moderator for one of them.

Mr. Locke also collaborated with UN Publications in promoting their newly published books, The Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Blue and Beautiful: Planet Earth Our Home, arranging meetings for presentation of the books by UN Youth Ambassadors to a number of heads of state.

Invited to observe the opening and concluding sessions of the World Summit and to take part in a post-Summit meeting were a select group of heads of 48 NGOs including Dr. Wilma Ellis, administrator-general of the BIC.

The purpose of the post-Summit meeting was to evaluate the Summit and its impact on NGO activities, identify ways to ensure their active participation, explore ways to improve coordination, and increase the sharing of information.

Dr. Ellis told the assembled participants that “the one certain way to make a positive impact on the status of the world’s children is for all of our organizations to work together to give them our top priority.”

When the Summit ended, 46 countries had formally indicated their acceptance of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, one of the requirements stipulated in the 10-point Plan of Action decided upon by the participants.

Eight-year-old Amy Milne, Youth Ambassador for United Nations Publications, presents a children’s book, ‘Blue and Beautiful: Planet Earth Our Home,’ to various heads of state at the World Summit for Children held September 29-30 at the United Nations in New York. With Amy are (left to right) Yves Fortier, Canadian Ambassador to the UN; Mrs. Mila Mulroney; Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney; and Zine Cortez of UN Publications.

Reston Bahá’ís proclaim Faith with tree plantings, booths at two festivals

The Bahá’ís of Reston, Virginia, recently presented the message of Bahá’u’lláh to that community through the operation of a booth at two local festivals.

At the Reston “Earth Day” event, some 300 dogwood tree seedlings, which were obtained free from the U.S. Forest Service, were handed out with “adoption papers,” planting instructions, and a Bahá’í information packet that included copies of the peace statement and the Bahá’í statement on the environment.

At the annual Reston Festival, more than 400 packets of flower seeds were given out with the Bahá’í information packets.

National Assembly of Italy establishes ABS chapter

The National Spiritual Assembly of Italy has established the Italian Association for Bahá’í Studies.

Italian-speaking Bahá’ís are encouraged to register. They will receive the Association’s bulletin, Kalimát.

For more information, write to Associazone Italiana per gli Studi Bahá’í, c/o National Spiritual Assembly of Italy, Via della Fontanella, 4-00187, Roma, Italia.

Current events

Commenting on the relationship of Bahá’ís to politics, the Universal House of Justice wrote in 1967 that “This is a matter of very great importance, particularly in these days when the world situation is so confused; an unwise act or statement by a Bahá’í in one country could result in a grave setback for the Faith there or elsewhere—and even loss of the lives of fellow believers.”

As pertinent as this statement was in 1967, its relevance assumes even greater importance for this time when the Faith has emerged from obscurity.

A letter to an editor of a local newspaper, for example, may well be placed on wire services and appear in publications throughout the world. A harsh critique or pointed comment about a particularly sensitive issue current in one country could easily be misinterpreted as a political statement in another.

Likewise, a well-meaning but unwise public attribution of a phrase commonly used in Bahá’í discussions to a prominent world figure may serve only to chill the warm reception the Faith has thus far been given and call into question its motives.

The friends are encouraged therefore to apply the Bahá’í teachings to current events, but to do so with wisdom, discretion, good judgment and a keen awareness of the principles that relate to obedience to government and non-involvement in partisan politics.

If there is any doubt about whether a proposed action with the media or a public official may have adverse effects on the good name of the Faith, local Spiritual Assemblies and individual believers are free to contact either the National Spiritual Assembly Office of External Affairs in Washington, D.C., or its Office of Public Information at the Bahá’í National Center in Wilmette for guidance.

United Kingdom presents George Townshend prize for excellence in publishing to U.S.’ Kalimát Press

The George Townshend Literature Prize for excellence in Bahá’í publishing, established in 1987 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Bahá’í Publishing Trust of the United Kingdom, was presented this year to Kalimát Press.

The award was made in recognition of Kalimát’s contribution to academic publishing on the Bahá’í Faith, and particularly for its excellent series, “Studies in Bábí and Bahá’í History.”

In presenting the award at the Royal Bath Assembly Rooms in Harrogate, England, Hugh Adamson, secretary-general of the National Spiritual Assembly of the United Kingdom, emphasized the importance of striving to meet higher standards of scholarship and writing in Bahá’í publishing, which remains one of the most effective means for the progress and development of the Cause.

Dr. Moojan Momen, who accepted the award on Kalimát Press’ behalf, spoke about Kalimát’s achievements in promoting deeper study of the Faith, and in making the work of Bahá’í scholars available to the academic world, the general public, and the Bahá’í community.

Wisconsin Bahá’í School

The Wisconsin Bahá’í School will host a session January 18-20 entitled “The Love of Bahá’u’lláh: A Weekend of Spiritual Growth Through Immersion in the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh.”

The session, for adults including youth 15 years and older, will be held at Byron Center in Brownsville.

For information, please contact Jim Hannen, registrar, 203 W. Sadd St., North Prairie, WI 53153, or phone 414-392-3304.

Washington Bahá’ís sponsor International potluck supper

On September 30, the Bahá’ís of Thurston County, Washington, sponsored an International Peace Menu potluck dinner at the local Methodist church.

Ten other groups including Amnesty International and the Fellowship of Reconciliation set up tables at the event, which was attended by about 60 people.

A reception was held October 11 at the Bahá’í International Community’s offices in New York in honor of Thomas Banyacya (second from left), messenger of the Hopi Indian prophecies. Mr. Banyacya was at the United Nations to request permission to deliver the Hopi message of peace. With him are (left to right) Shirley Lee, the U.S. Bahá’í representative to the UN; Soni Mormo Primeau, member of the American Indian Community House; and Mike Barnes, Mr. Banyacya’s assistant. [Page 12]

BAHA’I YOUTH AND DEEPENING

جوانان بهائی و تزیید معلومات امری مطالعه آثار حضرت بهاء الله راه درمان دردهای بشر را به ما نشان پهایی مورد بحث و مذاکره قرار گرفت. می دهد. اما مهمتر از این آنکه مطالعه این آثار آتش اعتقاد در روز سوم دکتر وحید رافتی سخنانی راجع به عرقان و ایمان را در دل ما روشن میکنند و از ما افرادی مؤمن اسلامی در آثار مبارکه بهائی ایراد نمود و دکتر داریوش می سازد وقتی چنین آتشی در دل ما روشن شد. دیگر ما معاشی مطالبی درباره موقع و مقام عرفان در امر بهائی اظهار کانی نخواهیم بود که فقط سلبی را میدانند. بلکه کسانی داشت. خانم ماه مهر گلستانه نیز برنامه ای تحت عنوان خواهیم بود که می دانند و در عمل هم دانسته خودشان را ظاهر مترهای تزئینی ارائه نمود جوانان بهائی از دوران کودکی عبارت "تزييد معلومات" را شنیده اند در زیاد انگلیسی آن را deepening میگویند اما به راستی تزیید معلومات چه معنایی دارد؟ تزیید معلومات در زبان فارسی یعنی زیاد کردن دانستم در زبان انگلیسی deepening به این معنی است می کنند.

در روز چهارم احوال و آثار جناب عزیز الله صباح توسط در آثار الهی نیرویی وجود دارد که در دل مردم اثر جناب فیض الله صباح مورد بررسی قرار گرفت و سپس دکتر که به عمق مطلبی راه بیاییم و از چند و چون آن یا خیر می کند و فکر آنها را تحت تأثیر قرار میدهد و حتی کاری شاپور راسخ شرحی درباره زندگی و اشعار دکتر امین الله صباح شریم حنای آن را به خوبی فرا گیریم و تا آنجا که ممکن است بریارهای آگاه شویم بهائیان حنای خاصی به خود گرفته و حتی شاید بتوان گفت که به صورت یکی از اصطلاحات بهائی در آمده است و آن آگاهی از اصول و تعالیم و احکامی است که دیانت بهائی را تشکیل می دهد.

شاید بهترین تعريف تزييد معلومات امری آن باشد که حضرت بهاءالله در کتاب النس فرموده اند که به طور کلی حتایش به زیاد فارسی چنین است در دریای سخنان من الموطهور شوید تا رمزهایی را که در آن نهفته است. دریابید و گوهرهایی را که در اعماق آن است. به دست آورید میکند که از جان خودشان هم .بگذرند این نیرو باعث میشود بیان نمود بعد از شهر خانم لیلی ایمن نطقی با عنوان که کارهایی را که برای بهتر ساختن اوضاع دنیا و مردم باید روش آموزش زیاد فارسی به نونهالان ایراد کرد و سپس خانم البته اصطلاح تزييد معلومات یا deepening در بین صورت بگیرد انجام دهیم و کسانی را که از این بهبود دکتر ژاله خادم "عماری ایران و تأثیر آن در معماری جهاد را بی خبرند آگاه کنیم این آگاه کردن مردم از راه حل بررسی نمود.

مشکلات دنیا را در اصطلاح امری "تبلیغ میگوئیم. همه این در روز پنجم دکتر بیژن سعادت سخنرانی مبسوطی یا کارها را با قوه ایمان میتوانیم انجام بدهیم. اما بدون عنوان جهان موسیقی و آثار مبارکه حضرت عبدالبهاء" ایراد خوانند آثار الهی این نیرو به وجود نمی آید و اگر هم وجود نمود. بعد از ظهر چناب عنایت الله صادقیان مطالبی درباره داشته باشد تقویت نمی شود احوال و آثار جناب غلامرضا روحانی اظهار داشت

بنابراین میبینیم که مطالعه آثار بهائی اثری بیشتر از در روز ششم که روز آخر مجمع بود چناب بهروز چهاری زیاد کردد معلومات امری ما ..دارد این اثر در یک معنای سخنرانی مفصلی با عنوان نگاهی به احوال و آثار شعرای گسترده یعنی شناختن و تشخیص دادن درد و بیماری یعنی بهائی در ربع قرن اخیر ایراد کرد در جلسه پایان جناب کمک به درمان آن یعنی آشنا کردن مردم با آن یعنی عوض دکتر شاپور راسخ خلاصه ای از برنامه های مجمع را با عنوان کردن خود و كمك به بهتر شدن دیگران و در یک کلام یعنی در دوره صباح چه کرده ایم گزارش داد

ساختن دنیایی بهتر و امن تر و سالم تر همه اینها را میتوان ناگفته نماند که در همه روزهای مجمع مذکور کارگاههای با مطالعه آثار بهائی با تزیید معلومات" یا deepening هنری و جلسات شعر خوانی و موسیقی ایرانی نیز برقرار بود انجام داد.

جناب مولن سرپرست کارگاه خطاطی و دکتر سعادت سرپرست پس بیائید از همین امروز یا امشب شروع کنیم به آموزش لمن تلاوت آیات و خانم طاهره لولی سرپرست برنامه مطالعه منظم آثار امری از رساله این قلب میتوانیم شروع گل آرایی بودند همچنین هر شب برنامه هنری ویژه ای اجرا کنیم و معنی ثقات سخت آن را از کسانی که معلومات بیشتری می شد. در شمن اگر هم نظر و پیشنهادی برای حضرت بهاء الله فرموده اند اهل بها باید اجر احدی را که به برنامه تزیید معلومات امری داشته باشیم می توانیم آد انکار نکنند و ارباب هنر را محترم .دارند. چای خوشوقتی را با لینه ملی جوانان در میان بگذرانیم و دیگر جوانان بهائی است که یکی از موسسات امری به تشویق هنرمندان و انعاد را هم در مورد مطالعه آثار امری کنه کنیم. جلسات خاص برای بررسی ادب و هنر موفق گردیده است.

تلفن ۸۶۹۹۰۲۹ (۲۰۸) .

National Youth Committee Bahá’í National Center Wilmette, IL. 60090

SECOND PERSIAN ARTS AND LETTERS CONFERENCE

دومین مجمع ادب و هنر

موفقیت پیایی مجمع ادب و هنر را آرزو میکنیم.

دومین مجمع ادب و هنر از ۲۷ آگست تا ۲ سپتامبر سال جاری در آکادمی لندگی Landegg در سوئیس تشکیل گردید. در تابستان سال گذشته اولین دوره مجمع ادب و هنر تشکیل شد و بیت العدل اعظم در دستخط مورخ ۱۹ نوامبر ۱۹۸۹ خطاب به موسسه مسوول برنامه ریزی فرمودند: مکتوب نهم سپتامبر صادره از آن موسسه جلیله از طرف شرکت کنندگان اولین دوره مجمع ادب و هنر واصل شد. این قبیل مجامع که یاران عزیز ایران را تشویق بر ترویج زبان فارسی میسازد و با آیات نازله و الواح مبارکه و توقیعات منوعه انس و آشنائی بیشتری میبخشد البته خدمتی است بسیار جليل و انشاء الله مکررا پر انعقاد چنین انجمن هایی موفق گردند.....

بدین ترتیب دومین مجمع ادب و هنر "دوره صباح" به عنایت معهد اعلی و با شرکت عده ای از فضلا و هنرمندان بهائی انعقاد یافت جلسات این مجمع هر روز با جلسه مشرق الاذکار شروع میشد و پس از صرف صبحانه با سخنرانی نامتان و هنر مندان و اجرای برنامه های گوناگون هنری ادامه می یافت و پاسی گذشته از شب پایان می پذیرفت و ناگفته پیداست که حضور چناب هوشمند فتح اعظم عضو محترم بیت العدل اعلم در مجمع مذکور پر رونق جلسات می افزود. رئوس برنامه های دومین مجمع ادب و هنر در زیر درج میشود

در روز اول مجمع دکتر ایرج ایمن مدیر آکادمی اندی سخنانی درباره از مرکز اجتماعات تا مرکز بین المللی توسعه و آموزش ایراد نمود و حاضران را از تحولات بندگی آگاه ساخت

در روز دوم چناب پروفسور بشروشی بیانات مشروحی درباره تأثیر شعر در تمدن و فرهنگ پیشر" اظهار نمود. در میزگردی که بعد از ظهر تشکیل شده .بود. رسالت هنرمند

البته میدانیم که چون قهسیند سخنان حضرت بهاء الله بدون توجه به آثار حضرت عبدالبهاء و حضرت ولی امرالله و بيت العدل اعظم مشكل و يا حتى غیر ممکن است بنابراین تزبيد معلومات امری شامل مطالعه آن آثار نیز هست ترتيب تربيد معلومات امری یعنی آگاه بودن از مطالبی که توسط حضرت بهاءالله و حضرت عبدالبهاء و حضرت ولی امر الله وبیتصل اعلم درشت شده باشد

رادهای گوناگوشی برای آگاهی از آثار امری وجود دارد. شاید اولین و مادترین راه خوانند آن آثار باشد هر کسی میتواند منشی از وقت خود را به خوانند یکی از کتابهای حضرت بهاءالله بگذراند اگر این مطالعه به صورت منظم ام شود اثر آن بهتر خواهد بود مثلا میتوان هر روز چند لیت را صرف خوانند یکی از کتابها و یا لوح های حضرت بهاء الله .کرد

دارند بپرسیم

راه دیگر تشکیل دادن و شرکت کردن در جلسات و کارهای تزیید معلومات است. در این جلسات میتوان از احیائی که دانش بیشتری در مورد موضوع خاصی دارند دعوت کرد که معلومات خود را به دیگران هم بیاموزند. همچنین می توان قرار گذاشت که یکی از شرکت کنندگان درباره موضوعی سال کنند و نتیجه آن را به صورت نطقی بیان نماید.

در چند سال گذشته سفل روحانی علی هر سال کتابی را بعنوان کتاب سال هین کرده و احیاء را به مطالعه آن تشویق نموده است. اسال "رساله این قلب بعنوان کتاب سال انتخاب شده .است جوانان بهایی میتوانند به طالعه این اثر حضرت بهاء الله بپردازند و گوشش کنند که تا آنجا که میتوانند از راز و رمز آن سر درآورند.

اما نکته ای که یادآوریش لازم است اینکه تزیید معلومات بسیار بهتر از زیاد کردن داشته های ما درباره موضوع های امری است. دنیای امروزی وضع خاصی به خود گرفته و سرشار از فرست و موقعیتهای کمیاب است هر کسی که حتی چند دقیقه را به فکر کردن درباره اوضاع دنیا و مردم آن بگذراند. به سرعت میآید که میچکی بود که دیگران نمی تواند زندگی کنند وضع کشورهای جهان هم همین طور است. ملت های دنیا به یکدیگر نیازمند و وابسته اند مردم با گسترش و پیشرفت وسائل ارتباط جمعی زشتی چنگ و فکر و علم و حتی آلودگی کره زمین را میداند حتی حکومت ها و روسای آنها هم در طرز فکر و اعتقاد خودشان نسبت به بسیاری از مسائل تجدید نظر کرده اند حرف در این است که خیلی از مردم با چشم بازتری با ارجاع دنیا روبرو شدهاند و درد و مشکل آد را دید و شیمیداند .

احد اهل بیاد این است که سالیترین و پایدارترین و خشترین راه برای حل مشکلات دنیا در آثار بهایی گفته شده است باید آن را به کار انداخت و مورد استفاده قرار داد دانست تنها کافی نیست باید با اعتقاد با ایاد چیزی را دانست تا بتوان آن را به کار برد البته

PIONEERING GOALS ABROAD

گزارش لجنه اهداف خارجه

۱ ماه به پایان نقشه شش ساله و آغاز سال قدس ۱۹۹۲ باقی مانده است. بدین جهت جای آن دارد که نظری به پیشرفتهای مهاجرتی خود بیفکنیم و موقعیت خود را در برابر اهدافی که بیت العدل اعظم برای جامعه امری ایالات متحده تعیین فرموده اند بررسی کنیم

۲۰ نقطه مهاجرتی از ۷۷ نقطه ای که در آغاز نقشه برای ایالات متحده تعیین شده بود هنوز به مهاجر نیاز دارد ۲ نقطه در افریقا ۱۷ نقطه در آمریکای مرکزی و جنوبی حضرت بهاء الله فرموده اند که افرادی که به عللی نتوانند در امر مهاجرت شرکت نمایند باید دست کم مخارج مهاجری را تأمین کنند تا بدین ترتیب وظیفه روحانی خود را ایفاء نموده باشند بنابراین تخصیص مبلغی از تبرعات به صندوق توکیل جهت تأمین مخارج مهاجران كمك به تکمیل اهداف باقیمانده به نقشه شش ساله خواهد نمود یقین است که یاران عزیز نکات فوق را در نظر خواهند داشت.

HUQUQU’LLAH

حقوق الله

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

Dr. Amin Banani Santa Monica, CA. 90402

Dr. Daryush Haghighi Rocky River, OH. 44116

Dr. Elsie Austin P.O. Box 927 Silver Spring, MD. 20910 [Page 13]

پیام بیت‌العدل اعظم الهی

MESSAGE FROM THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE

ترجمه مرقومه دارالانشاء مرکز جهانی خطاب به عموم محافل روحانی ملی ۲۸ سپتامبر ۱۹۹۰

دوستان عزیز بهائی

بیت‌العدل اعظم توجه آن محفل مقدس را به قسمتی از پیام رضوان اخیر که در طی آن یاران سراسر جهان به جذب و هدایت نفوس متمیزه به شریعت الله دعوت شده‌اند، معطوف می‌دارد. چون بیت‌العدل اعظم مایلند که یاران الهی اهمیت خاصی برای این امر قائل شوند، از دارالتحقیق مرکز جهانی خواسته شد تا مجموعه‌ای از نصوص مبارکه در این خصوص تهیه نمایند. این مجموعه آماده شده و به ضمیمه این متحدالمال ارسال می‌گردد.

بیت‌العدل اعظم از آحاد الهی ملتمس است که مطالعه دقیق این نصوص یاران را مدد نماید تا از اهمیت ایجاد روابط دوستانه با نفوس ممتازه و ارباب فضل و کمال و صاحبان تخصص و تبحر و نفوس خطیر و سرشناس جامعه به خوبی آگاه گردند. هدف یاران باید این باشد که اینگونه افراد را نسبت به امر مبارک محب و خوشبین سازند و هر گونه تصورات نامواپبی را که ممکن است داشته باشند، برطرف کنند و در برابر دیدگانشان چشم‌انداز یگانگی و صلح جهانی را که در آثار حضرت بهاءالله مصرح است، عرضه نمایند. یاران الهی باید به یقین بدانند که در میان این افراد آنان که مستعدند و مشرب روحانی دارند، باملای حقیقت امر بهائی را خواهند پذیرفت و به صف حامیان فعالش خواهند پیوست.

با تحیات ابدع ابهی از طرف دارالانشاء مرکز جهانی بهائی

متن انگلیسی مجموعه نصوص مبارکه راجع به جذب نفوس متمیزه در صفحات انگلیسی این شماره درج گردیده است.

تذکر محفل ملی درباره مراعات حکمت

DISCRETION IN DISCUSSING WORLD EVENTS

امروزه چه بسا اتفاق می‌افتد که رهبران جهان و انتشارات و جراید مهم هنگام بررسی رویدادهای جاری اصطلاحاتی به کار می‌برند که گوئی بازتاب بیاناتی است که توسط طلقات قدسیه امر مبارک ذکر شده و یا توسط حضرت ولی امرالله و بیت‌العدل اعظم الهی بازگو گردیده است. هر چند نهند و شدید عبارات آشنائی چون "نظم نوین جهانی" و "وحدت در کثرت" جوش و هیجانی در دل ایجاد می‌کند، اما یاران نباید چنین نتیجه بگیرند که رهبران مذکور و انتشارات و جراید در کاربرد این عبارات از منابع بهائی استفاده کرده‌اند.

البته تردیدی در ذهن هیچیک از بهائیان هوشمند وجود ندارد که در پس اقداماتی که به تازگی در جهت صلح جهانی به عمل آمده است، طرح و نقشه بزرگ الهی قرار دارد. اما داشتن این نکته بعنوان یک امر ایمانی و اعتقادی با بازگو کردن آن در نزد عموم تفاوتی اساسی دارد و در این مورد است که یاران به مراعات حکمت و حزم دعوت شده‌اند.

بیت‌العدل اعظم الهی در دستخطی که در سال ۱۹۶۷ صادر شده است، راجع به ارتباط احباء به امور سیاسی فرموده‌اند: "این امری بسیار خطیر است به ویژه در این دوران که اوضاع جهان بسی آشفته است، یک عمل یا گفته غیرعاقلانه فردی در یک کشور می‌تواند به تعویق پیشرفت امرالله در آنجا یا جای دیگری بیانجامد و حتی ممکن است به از میان رفتن عده‌ای از احباء منجر شود."

بنیاد فوق مندرج در رابطه با رویدادهای سال ۱۹۹۲ صادر شده است. معذلک تطبیق آن با زمان حاضر که امرالله در مرحله جدیدی خارج شده، از اهمیت بیشتری برخوردار است. بعنوان مثال نامه‌ای به سردبیر یک روزنامه محلی ممکن است توسط رسانه‌ها در نشریات سراسر جهان نقل شود. یک انتقاد سخت و یا اظهار نظر تند راجع به موضوع حساسی در یک کشور می‌تواند در کشوری دیگر به آسانی بعنوان اظهار نظری سیاسی تلقی شود. همچنین انتساب عباراتی که در آثار بهائی به کرات ذکر شده به یکی از سران ملل ممکن است روابط گرمی را که امر مبارک با سران جهان برقرار کرده است، به سردی بکشاند و سبب شود انگیزه ایجاد روابط مورد شک و تردید واقع شود.

البته یاران تحریض شده‌اند که بکوشند و تعالیم حضرت بهاءالله و رابطه آن را با مشکلات جهان بیان نمایند، منتهی باید نهایت درجه حکمت و هوشیاری را مراعات نمایند و از اصولی که مبتنی بر اطاعت از حکومت و عدم مداخله در سیاست‌های حزبی است، نیز کاملاً آگاه باشند.

از محافل روحانی محلی و افراد یاران تقاضا می‌شود در صورتی که راجع به اقدامی در مورد رسانه‌های خبری یا اولیاء امور کوچکترین تردیدی داشته باشند، جهت مشورت و کسب اطلاع با دفتر امور خارجی محفل روحانی ملی در واشنگتن دی‌سی یا دفتر روابط عمومی در دفتر محفل روحانی ملی تماس حاصل نمایند.

اوراق جدید تبرعات

NEW RECEIPTS AND CONTRIBUTION FORMS

بنا به راهنمائی بیت‌العدل اعظم و پیشنهادهایی که یاران از سراسر کشور به دفتر امین صندوق تقدیم داشته‌اند، در آینده نزدیک اوراق رسید جدیدی برای تبرعات یاران صادر و فرستاده خواهد شد. تا کنون ۱۰ هزار نسخه از رسیدهای جدید بعنوان مرحله آزمایش از زیر چاپ بیرون آمده است.

دفتر امین صندوق امیدوار است که اوراق جدید رسید آسانتر از رسیدهای قبلی مورد کاربرد یاران قرار گیرد. هدف از تهیه رسیدهای جدید آن بوده است که هیئت و ترکیب آنها روشن‌تر و ساده‌تر از اوراق قبلی باشد. به همین جهت از یاران تقاضا می‌شود که اگر پیشنهادهایی برای بهبود وضع آن داشته باشند، آن را با دفتر امین صندوق در میان نهند.

جهت تکمیل ورقه تبرع نکاتی را باید به خاطر داشت: وجوهی که یاران بدون تخصیص آن به صندوق خاصی تبرع نمایند، باید در مستطیل اول در بالای ورقه در مقابل عبارت My contribution to the National Bahá’í Fund درج شود. اما اگر همه یا بخشی از مبلغ تبرعی را بخواهند به صندوق خاصی تخصیص دهند، باید آن را در قسمت "تبرعات سائره" additional contributions مشخص نمایند.

همچنین در اوراق تبرع جدید دو قسمت با مربع‌های آری/نه yes/no وجود دارد. کسانی که مایل باشند تبرعاتشان به صندوق‌های خاصی تخصیص یابد، باید این مربع‌ها را پر کنند. اولین مربع مربوط به قوانین مالیاتی است. تبرعاتی که جهت ارسال به صندوق‌های خارج از ایالات متحده تقدیم شود، مشمول معافیت مالیاتی نخواهد بود. محفل روحانی ملی جهت تبعیت از قوانین و دستورالعمل‌های مالیاتی باید مختار باشد به تشخیص خود تبرعاتی را که برای صندوق‌های خارج از ایالات متحده اختصاص یافته است، توزیع نماید. جهت توضیح بیشتر به مثال زیر توجه فرمائید:

اگر فردی بخواهد به صندوق بین‌المللی تبرع نماید و همچنین مشمول معافیت مالیاتی نیز باشد، باید در مربع اول "آری" yes را انتخاب کند. بدین ترتیب محفل روحانی ملی در توزیع وجه تبرع شده مختار خواهد بود و البته خواسته فرد تبرع کننده را نیز مبنی بر ارسال وجه تقدیمی به صندوق بین‌المللی در نظر خواهد داشت.

اما اگر کسی نخواهد که محفل ملی در توزیع وجه تقلیلی مختار باشد، باید در قسمت اول "نه" no را انتخاب کند. در این صورت محفل روحانی ملی فقط بعنوان رابط فرستنده وجه تقلیلی عمل خواهد کرد و البته وجه مزبور نیز مشمول معافیت مالیاتی نخواهد بود.

فقره دوم اساساً به تعهد محفل روحانی ملی در قبال صندوق‌های گوناگون مربوط می‌شود که یکی از آنها تأمین ۱۲ میلیون دلار برای صندوق بین‌المللی در سال جاری است. اگر کسی بخواهد وجه تبرعش به حساب تعهدات محفل روحانی ملی منظور شود، باید در این قسمت "آری" yes را انتخاب کند. در صورتی که در هر دو قسمت "آری" yes انتخاب شود، وجه تقلیلی مشمول معافیت مالیاتی خواهد بود.

کنفرانس بین‌المللی در آکادمی لندگ

LANDEGG ACADEMY HOSTS INTERNATIONAL DIALOGUE

از ۲ تا ۹ سپتامبر سال جاری اولین کنفرانس بین‌المللی تحت عنوان "گفتگو درباره انتقال به یک جامعه جهانی" در آکادمی لندگ در سوئیس تشکیل گردید. کنفرانس مذکور با حمایت فدریکو مایور Federico Mayor دبیر کل یونسکو و کترین لالومی‌یر Catherine Lalumiere دبیر کل شورای اروپا انعقاد یافت.

بیش از ۹۰ نفر در این کنفرانس شرکت کردند. برخی از شرکت کنندگان برجست در مجمع مزبور عبارت بودند از: شاهزاده آلفرد از لیختنشتاین Liechtenstein، اروین لازلو Ervin Laszlo رئیس مجمع علمی وین برای مطالعات آینده، ایلیا پریگوژین Ilya Prigogine برنده جایزه نوبل، برتراند شنایدر Bertrand Schneider رئیس کلوپ رم، رودولف وایرز مولر Weiersmuller کاردار امور بین‌المللی پناهندگان در برن سوئیس و چند تن دیگر از نامداران در رشته‌های اقتصاد و جامعه‌شناسی و علوم.

٢٤ نفر در کنفرانس مذکور سخنرانی کردند که سه تن از آنان بهائی بودند: دکتر اینگو هافمن Ingo Hofmann، جاد هادلستون Huddleston و دکتر جنت کان. موضوع سخنرانی احباء "چشم‌انداز و ارزش‌های نوین: ظهور نظم جدید جهانی" بود.

خانم دروشتی نلسون، نایب رئیس محفل روحانی ملی ایالات متحده با نکات ماهرانه خود فرصت مناسبی برای ارائه نظرگاه بهائی ایجاد نمود. همچنین حضور دکتر پیتر کان، عضو محترم بیت‌العدل اعظم الهی باعث سرور احبای حاضر در کنفرانس گردید.

مباحثی که در این مجمع مطرح شد شامل موضوع‌های مختلفی چون فرهنگ، آموزش و پرورش، تحقیقات علمی، علوم اجتماعی، اقتصاد و سیاست بود. مطالبی که ارائه می‌شد، بهطورانه مورد توجه و بحث قرار می‌گرفت.

دکتر لازلو در ضمن سخنان خود گفت که هر چند بشریت هرگز در موقعیتی نبوده است که بتواند آینده خود را پیش‌بینی کند، معذلک وقت آن رسیده است که زمام سرنوشتمان را خود به دست گیریم و روابط پیوسته و وابسته جهان را در موارد گوناگون از نظر بگذرانیم. و نکته مهم این است که این فرصت را از دست ندهیم.

آقای پریگوژین حاضران را خاطر نشان ساخت که انسان و طبیعت اعضای آفرینشی یگانه‌اند که در حال حاضر به خاطر سوء رفتار انساء، به وضع وخیمی دچار شده است. چاره این مشکل تنها از این راه حاصل می‌شود که خود را از قالب‌های فکر گذشته بگسلیم و چشم به مدینه فاضله جدیدی بگشائیم.

آقای مایور شرکت کنندگان را متذکر نمود که زمان اقدام فرا رسیده است و افزود کسانی که می‌گویند به وقت بیشتری برای یافتن علل وخامت وضع محیط زیست نیاز دارند، در واقع با دم شیر بازی می‌کنند و عاری از صداقت چنین می‌گویند. وی افزود در زمان کنونی که جامعه با وسائل ارتباط جمعی مأنوس شده است، بر عهده رسانه‌های گروهی است که با آگاه ساختن مردم آنان را به حمایت از یک رویکرد جهانی برانگیزند و تغییرات لازم را در افکار مردم به ویژه در مورد نظام آموزشی و امور اجتماعی و سیاسی و فرهنگی ایجاد نمایند.

در آخرین روز این مجمع تصویر غالباً تاریکی که در روزهای گذشته کنفرانس نقش شده بود، اندکی روشنی یافت. نتیجه این بود که هر فردی باید بکوشد و در میان دوستان و آشنایان خود نیروهای خفته روحانی را برانگیزد و بدین ترتیب به ایجاد تغییرات لازم در نهاد و وجدان مردمان مددی رساند.

شرکت کنندگان در این کنفرانس مکرراً متذکر شدند که دین همواره یکی از نیروهای مهم برای الهام بخشیدن به مردم بوده است و همه فرهنگ‌های غنی اساسی روحانی داشته‌اند و به همین جهت در راه رسیدن به یک جامعه جهانی نباید از اهمیت عناصر روحانی غفلت ورزید.

این کنفرانس راه همکاری در فعالیت‌های بیشماری را بین جوامع بهائی و غیربهائی هموارتر ساخت. [Page 14]

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.

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

WRITER wanted to prepare in-depth articles on a variety of topics and carry out other reporting assignments for The American Bahá’í. Must be well-versed in the Writings of the Faith and its Administrative Order, have proven writing skills, be able to analyze issues and events and present that analysis well in writing, and be a self-starter able to work well under pressure with minimal supervision. Please contact the Department of Human Resources, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039).

PIONEERS (OVERSEAS)

POSITIONS available overseas: Africa—Ciskei: social and economic development practitioners. The Gambia: health and nutrition program manager. Transkei: medical doctors. Americas—Brazil: elementary school teachers. Belize: custodians for the Amelia Collins Institute. Honduras: field representative for AFSC programs. Australasia—Kwajalein Atoll: mechanics, fiber optics technicians, electronics and communications technicians. Mariana Islands: physicians, medical technologists with ASCP. Multi-Regional: science, math, ESL teachers are needed for two-year assignments with the Peace Corps. More than 800 positions will be filled during 1991 in more than 50 countries in Africa, Asia and Eastern Europe. Miscellaneous: program development director-Africa region (Washington, D.C.); educator/African studies, environment and resource use (St. Lawrence University, Canton, N.Y.). For more information about any of these positions, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 708-869-9039.

PIONEERS (HOMEFRONT)

CONSIDER Ferris State University to study or teach while helping to form an Assembly in Big Rapids, Michigan. Two Bahá’í faculty members need students to form a Bahá’í Club and take advantage of teaching opportunities among the school’s 11,000 students. Ferris State is an open enrollment university with excellent two- and four-year technical, industrial, management, business, education, nursing, pharmacy, optometry and dental programs and a limited number of graduate programs. If you can’t come, please remember Ferris State in your prayers. For information, phone Rick or Joyce Harmsen, 616-796-1120, or write to Vivian Nazar, secretary, Bahá’í Group of Big Rapids, Big Rapids, MI 49307.

THE BAHÁ’Í CLUB at Cleveland Chiropractic College would like to encourage any Bahá’ís who are considering becoming chiropractors to study at the college in Kansas City, Missouri. Your enrollment before May 1991 could keep the Bahá’í Association alive. For more information, contact Bill Kilgore, Kansas City, MO 64131, or phone 816-444-9298, or Brenda Caldwell, 816-753-7018.

HOMEFRONT pioneers are needed in the town of Oro Valley, only minutes from Tucson, Arizona. We have five active Bahá’ís and need four more to form an Assembly. Information about housing, employment, etc., will be provided. Please phone Ezatullah Rohani, 602-797-9470.

HOMEFRONT pioneers are needed on San Juan Island, Washington, to help re-form its jeopardized Assembly. Need five Bahá’ís by April 1991. For details about the area, write to Donna M. Stirling-Zoller, secretary, P.O. Box 81, Friday Harbor, WA 98250.

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: Dorothy E. Graf (died Philadelphia, PA, 1942), Maye Ruth Graham, (died Circleville, OH, 1940), Anita Grasselly, Cora E. Gray, Elizabeth A. Green, Jacques Green, Samuel Green (died New York City, 1955), Freda Greenfield and Claude W. Griffin (died Terrell, TX, 1973). Anyone knowing family members or relatives who might have these letters from the Guardian is asked to contact the National Bahá’í Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039).

THE NATIONAL Bahá’í Archives is seeking district convention voting lists for the years 1952-67 for Alabama, Colorado, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana and Maine. Anyone having voting lists they could donate is asked to send them to the National Bahá’í Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

WANTED

BAHÁ’Í pioneer working as a regional education development administrator in the Caribbean seeks donations of manual typewriters for distribution to rural schools. Typewriters may be portables or office models but must be in good working order. Please send (via UPS) to: Marcus Day, c/o Ono Industries, Ono, PA 17077, or (via U.S. mail) to: Marcus Day, c/o Ono, PA 17077. For information, write to Marcus Day, Castries, St. Lucia.

MISCELLANEOUS

COME TO El Salvador, Central America, and help the Bahá’ís proclaim the Faith through a series of nationwide weekly half-hour television programs in Spanish. The Bahá’í TV Committee produces in 3/4 NTSC U-Matic format with its own camera, port-a-pack and editing machines. Come down for short, medium or long-term involvement in this exciting and challenging project. Great opportunity for retired professionals, media students or creative types. Full-time participation desired but not conditional. Help is needed primarily in script-writing and production design. Write to Marvin Dreyer, USAID/San Salvador, APO Miami, FL 34023, or phone him (evenings) at area code 503 (El Salvador) 24-1256.

DID YOU LEAVE something behind at the Green Lake (Wisconsin) Bahá’í Conference? Lost and found items include books, a man’s ring, woman’s bracelet, photo equipment, children’s shoes and clothing, etc. To recover lost items, please contact Lori Block, Green Bay, WI 54301 (phone 414-432-7110).

Employment opportunities at National Center

The Department of Human Resources at the Bahá’í National Center is presently accepting applications for the following positions. For more information, applications and position descriptions, please phone Lea Mallow or Geneva Sutton at 708-869-9039, or send your qualifications to the Department of Human Resources, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

• Administrative Services: media services assistant (Studio); secretary (float in three departments); mail services assistant; Human Resources representative
• Bahá’í Publishing Trust: associate editor*; administrative assistant to the general editor; bookkeeper
• National Teaching Committee office: secretary to the secretary of NTC; regional teaching coordinator, Midwestern states/Indian desk*; receptionist
• Office of Public Information: assistant to the director
• Office of the Treasurer: assistant controller*; administrative assistant*; accounts payable clerk
• Periodicals Office: writer/reporter, The American Bahá’í
• Persian/American Affairs Office: administrative assistant (must be fluent in Persian and English)*

• Bahá’í required for this position

Name _________________________

Address ______________________

City/state/zip _______________

Phone (____) ____________

Bahá’í I.D. number ___________

Bahá’ís in New York area spread Message of Faith during the annual Harlem Week Festival in August

Pictured is the Bahá’í exhibit at the Ulysses S. Grant National Memorial, one of two exhibits erected by the friends in the New York City area August 12-19 during the annual Harlem Week festival.

More than 50 Bahá’í adults and youth from the New York City and Boston areas spread the healing Message of Bahá’u’lláh during the annual Harlem Week festival August 12-19.

Taking part were members of the Harlem Bahá’í Teaching Institute, 27 young people participating in a nine-day teaching project, and nine members of a Boston-area Bahá’í Group.

The Bahá’í presence included exhibits, firesides and public meetings undertaken as part of an ongoing schedule of prayer meetings and deepening/study classes in Harlem that have been the source of personal transformation and spiritual empowerment.

Bahá’í literature including copies of “The Promise of World Peace” was given out, while children were given helium-filled balloons on which was written “Peace Through World Unity” and the telephone number of the Bahá’í Center in New York City.

‘Excellence in all things . . .’

Badi Ebrahimifard, a Bahá’í from Manchester, Connecticut, posted a 4.0 average last year at the University of Connecticut, was elected to membership in Sigma Pi Sigma national physics honor society, won a scholarship as a member of the Golden Key national honor society, and a second scholarship from the university’s Alumni Association when he was chosen as one of two Alumni Scholars for the 1990-91 academic year.

On completing his sophomore year in high school, Vargha Rouhipour, a Bahá’í from Bedford, Texas, was awarded a scholarship in mathematics and science from the University of North Texas. It allows him to attend the university during his junior and senior years in high school, receiving full college credit for two years. Besides his academic achievements, Vargha was a member of the committee that planned the “Get Up and Do Something” Bahá’í youth conference last summer in the Dallas Metroplex.

Paula and Stefany Tyler, sisters in a Bahá’í family living in Port Angeles, Washington, have won honors for their academic achievements. Stefany, 14, received the American Legion citizenship award for 1990, given to only two eighth graders for having demonstrated “high qualities of courage, honor, leadership patriotism, scholarship and service.” Paula, 16, is one of only five percent of U.S. high school students listed in Who’s Who Among American High School Students for 1989-90.

Afsoon Roshanzamir, a 17-year-old Bahá’í from San Jose, California, who has often been recognized for her academic and athletic achievements, won the silver medal in the 1990 World Amateur Women’s Wrestling Championships in Sweden. A three-time U.S. national champion, she had placed third in the world championships last year in Switzerland, thus becoming the first woman of Iranian descent ever to win a medal in the competition.

Miatta Rice, a 13-year-old Bahá’í who is in the seventh grade at the Los Angeles Center for Enriched Studies, has received an award from the English Council of Los Angeles for an essay, “Changes in the World,” submitted for a writing contest on “Changes.”

Fritz A. Mann, a Bahá’í from Colorado Springs, Colorado, received the best of show honor and Sangre de Cristo Arts Center award at this year’s Colorado State Fair Fine Arts Exhibition for his painting, “Okinawa.” [Page 15]

Sixth Dayspring Bahá’í Summer School In Maryland largest ever with 270 present

The sixth annual Dayspring Bahá’í summer school, held August 3-6 at Frostburg (Maryland) State University, was the largest ever with 270 participants of all ages.

The school’s theme, “Our Emerging World Community: Individual Responsibilities and Benefits,” was addressed during the morning session by speakers Jack and Fafar Guillebeaux of Montgomery, Alabama.

After discussion groups, workshops on the creative arts, and inspiring talks by Counselor William Roberts on the life of Bahá’u’lláh and the Universal House of Justice’s 1990 Ridvan message, the friends raised $11,216 for the Arc including a $1,000 gift from the operating funds of the Dayspring School Committee.

On September 15, more than 300 people (including more than 100 non-Bahá’ís) attended the fifth annual Bahá’í Peace Dinner in Houston, Texas.

The program included a panel discussion on “Achieving and Maintaining World Peace.” Panelists were Bahá’í Jack Guillebeaux of Montgomery, Alabama; Kate Conlen of “Beyond War”; Vince Maggio, president of the local chapter of the United Nations Organization; and Carol Breckbill, editor of “Houston Peace News.”

Entertainment was by the Houston Bahá’í Youth Workshop and vocalist Carla Baker of New Orleans.

Last spring the Bahá’ís of Longmont, Colorado, took the initiative in organizing peace-related activities in that city by forming the Longmont Peace Committee whose membership includes those from a number of religious and peace-oriented groups.

On September 18 the committee held its first public event, a candlelight march to commemorate the International Day of Peace.

Despite inclement weather, 53 people took part in the march, 47 of whom were not Bahá’ís.

A number of pamphlets about the Faith were accepted, and the Bahá’ís of Longmont continue to receive phone inquiries from those who took part in or heard about the march.

Joseph Charles Ioas, who was named by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and later was photographed with the Master during His historic visit to the U.S. in 1912, died October 3 in Fresno, California.

In a Tablet addressed in 1908 to Mr. Ioas’ mother, Maria Ioas, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá said, “Name thy dear baby Joseph. I pray for him and ask confirmations for him. . . .”

All 10 of the Ioas children became Bahá’ís including Joseph’s older brother, the Hand of the Cause of God Leroy Ioas.

While the Master was in Chicago in 1912, He asked that Joseph come forward from a crowd of people to have his picture taken.

That photograph, in which ‘Abdu’l-Bahá is flanked by young Joseph Ioas and Rúhíyyih McComb, has appeared many times in Bahá’í publications all over the world.

Flora Brooks; helped open Shenandoah Valley to Faith

Flora Wine Brooks, who with her husband, Dr. William Brooks, opened Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley to the Faith and founded the Massanetta Springs Bahá’í Conference, died April 26 in Staunton, eight months after Dr. Brooks passed away.

Dr. and Mrs. Brooks opened the Brooks Restaurant in Verona after his retirement as an oral surgeon in the Washington, D.C., area.

In May 1989 Mrs. Brooks celebrated her 50th anniversary as a Bahá’í.

El Ruiseñor

El Ruiseñor (The Nightingale), is a Bahá’í magazine with articles in Spanish and English. This publication is sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of San Fernando, California and is distributed quarterly around the nation. Subscriptions are now available; the cost is $10.00 per year. Outside the USA $12.00 per year. Print your name and telephone number and send it to El Ruiseñor, P.O. Box 512 San Fernando, Ca. 91340. For further information about this publication call (818) 361-6931.

After sponsoring a float for the past five years in the annual Greenbelt (Maryland) Labor Day parade and festival, the Bahá’í community of Greenbelt decided this year to have a booth at which fair-goers could design and have made individualized plastic-covered buttons. More than 250 buttons were made during the 32 hours in which the booth was open, and the friends also sold peace merchandise including T-shirts and bumper stickers. As a result, the Bahá’ís of Greenbelt were able to contribute more than $300 to the endowment fund for the Bahá’í Chair for World Peace at the University of Maryland in College Park.

Thirty 11-by-14 color prints of the Shrine of the Báb on Mount Carmel are among 60 photographs being displayed through December 31 at Bucknell University in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania.

The photographs comprise an exhibit entitled “L’Agenda and Beyond: 50 Years of Photography by John F. Trauger.”

Mr. Trauger, a Bahá’í who lives in Canandaigua, New York, is a 1940 graduate of Bucknell who taught for 21 years at the Rochester Institute of Technology following a career in photo-journalism.

The recent re-election of Shirley Lee, the National Spiritual Assembly’s representative to the United Nations, as chairman of the Conference of UN Representatives in New York was noted in the inter dependent, the monthly newsletter of the United Nations Association of the U.S.A.

The Conference serves as one of two working arms of the UNA’s Council of Organizations—130 affiliated national non-governmental organizations with membership in the millions.

Tevita Halaholo, one of first Bahá’ís in Tonga Islands, dies

Tevita Uasi Halaholo, one of the first Bahá’ís in the Tonga Islands, died last January 27 in San Mateo County, California.

Mr. Halaholo, who was introduced to the Faith by Knights of Bahá’u’lláh Dudley and Elsa Blakely, was a former member of the National Spiritual Assembly of Tonga.

Since coming to the U.S. in 1987 he had established Tongan Bahá’í classes in San Mateo County and Los Angeles, hosted many firesides and Feasts, and organized traditional luaus to raise money for the Arc on Mount Carmel.

Service held for Gary Hillaire, Lummi Indian artist, carver

About 700 people attended the funeral and memorial service for Gary Hillaire, a Bahá’í from Bellingham, Washington, who died June 10.

Mr. Hillaire, a Lummi Indian, was a well-known artist and carver. Most of those who attended the service were not Bahá’ís, and many expressed their appreciation for the love and respect for Lummi tradition with which the Bahá’ís carried it out.

The Bahá’í community of Toppenish, Washington, presented its first ‘Bahá’í Peace Award’ and $300 scholarship this year to Paul Webber (center), a graduating senior at Toppenish High School whose list of accomplishments includes high academic marks, volunteer and church work, and awards for leadership in athletics. Presenting the award are Sheila Burns and Soroush Kermani, members of the Spiritual Assembly of Toppenish.

IN MEMORIAM

Pansy Oleva Barr Rimersburg, PA	Rosie B. Foye Dawson, GA	Mariette Peterson Pueblo, CO
Maria Jesus Bernai Yuma, AZ	Virginia Gans Mobile, AL	Kathryn Remple Colorado Springs, CO
Bennie Bethea Latta, SC	Ernest Keplinger Decatur, AL	Yadollah Shafizadeh Louisville, KY
Boyd Bethea Latta, SC	Abbie Massey Fort Worth, TX	Dorothy Snorton Yuma, AZ
Viola Bethea Latta, SC	Isiah McCall Cheraw, SC	James Vaden Aberdeen, WA
Margharita Cerquone Encinitas, CA	Robin Ann Munro Emporia, KS	Robert West Dawson, GA
Walker Davis Latta, SC	Ethel Murray Bloomington, IL

[Page 16]Young Bahá’ís and their teacher in this children’s class in Stone Mountain, Georgia, recently raised $540 for the Arc Fund by making and selling Bahá’í calendars. The adults in the community were so inspired by the children’s efforts that they added a sizeable amount to the children’s contribution.

Maryland Bahá’ís take part in ‘Celebration of Unity’

In September, the Bahá’ís of Carroll County and Westminster, Maryland, helped organize and took part in a “Celebration of Unity” at Uniontown Methodist Church.

About 60 people attended the ecumenical service that included music by a gospel choir from a local Baptist church, the Bahá’í Children’s Choir, and an American Indian story-teller.

The guest speaker was Fred Myers, a Bahá’í from Columbia, Maryland.

The purpose of the event was to bring people of different backgrounds closer together, help break down barriers between black and white churches, and seek points of unity.

A half-page article about the service and the Bahá’í role in planning it appeared September 29 in the Carroll County Times.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

NOVEMBER

22-25: Ninth annual Thanksgiving Youth Conference to be held in the Washington, D.C., area. For more information, phone Roya Rowlings, 703-866-1509.

22-25: Thanksgiving session for singles with activities for children, Bosch Bahá’í School, Santa Cruz, CA. To register, send $35 deposit per person to: Registrar, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060. Registration information: 408-423-3387. Program information: 805-933-1253.

30-December 2: Pioneering Institute with emphasis on American Indian teaching, near Salem, Oregon. For more information, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039).

DECEMBER

7-9: “Writing as a Tool for Social Change” with authors Guy Murchie, Cindy Savage and Lloyd Sieden, Bosch Bahá’í School. To reserve a place, send a $100 deposit to: Writers, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060. For information, phone 408-423-3387.

7-9: International Visual Arts Conference, Antigua, Leeward Islands.

21-24: Sixth annual Grand Canyon Bahá’í Conference, Phoenix, Arizona. Speakers: Counselor Wilma Ellis, Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh, Reynaldo Cruz. For information, write to P.O. Box 9961, Phoenix, AZ 85063, or phone 602-995-3817.

21-25: Winter I general session (all ages), Bosch Bahá’í School. To register, send $35 deposit per person to: Registrar, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060. Registration information: 408-423-3387. Program information: 805-933-1253.

21-27: Bahá’í International Summer School, Malawi. For information, contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039).

26-January 1: Swiss Bahá’í Winter School. For information, contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039).

27-January 1: Family Winter Session, Bosch Bahá’í School. To register, send a $35 deposit per person to: Registrar, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060. Registration information: 408-423-3387. Program information, 805-933-1253.

27-January 2: “Forum ’90,” a five-day event for young adult Bahá’í professionals, Landegg Academy, Switzerland. Theme: “Reaching People of Capacity: The Challenge of the Hour.” Special guest: Dr. Robert C. Henderson, secretary-general, U.S. National Spiritual Assembly. For a program brochure, write to Landegg Academy, CH-9405 Wienacht, Switzerland, or phone René Steiner, 41-71-91 91 31 or fax 41-71-91 43 01.

28-30: South Carolina Bahá’í Winter School, Louis G. Gregory Bahá’í Institute, Hemingway. Phone 803-558-5093.

28-January 1: Atlanta Bahá’í Youth Conference. Mark your calendars now! For registration information, phone Ruha Sobhani, 404-664-2418, or Shirin Mahmoodzadeh, 404-944-0700. For entertainment information, phone Roshan Bashir, 404-296-1081. Don’t miss it!

28-January 1: Winter II general session (all ages), Bosch Bahá’í School. For information, phone 408-423-3387.

JANUARY

11-13: Pioneering Institute, Bosch Bahá’í School, Santa Cruz, California. For more information, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039).

18-21: Martin Luther King Jr. Weekend, Atlanta, Georgia. Parade, march, other events. For information, phone Paulette Trail, 404-426-7713.

FEBRUARY

8-10: Consultation and Models of Dispute Resolution, Louhelen Bahá’í School. Conducted by Rick and Barbara Johnson. For information, phone 313-653-5033.

15-18: Special session for singles, Bosch Bahá’í School. To register, send a deposit of $35 per person to the Registrar, Bosch Bahá’í School, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060. Information about registration: 408-423-3387. Program information: 805-933-1253.

SPRING 1991

Pioneering Institutes: Evanston, Illinois, and Austin, Texas. For more information, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039).