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

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November 1990

Volume 21, No. 11

‘The real treasury of man is his knowledge’—Bahd'u'lléh

The ° or American Baha’i

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 Baha'u'llah 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 Baha'u'llah to the Hispanic population, and its prayers were offered at a park in an 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 Baha'is, 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 Baha’fs earlier.

The new Baha’is 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, Baha’{s began to visit the newer believers, developing further friendships that had been e¢stablished 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

r

National Education Committee developing core curriculum for Bahaé’i 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 Baha’{ way of life requiring special consideration of the Baha’{ education of children and youth, the strengthening of Baha'i 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 Baha’{ 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 Baha’{ Education Committee has been developing a core curriculum for Bahd’{ children ages 6-12. An announcement will be made in The American Bahd’/ 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 Baha’{ 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 Bahd’t Communities for guidance on how to organize a Baha’ educational program.

In these remaining years of the Six Year Plan, it is our highest hope that the core curriculum for Bahd’{ children ages 6-12 will be implemented at every Bahd’{ school in the country. Apparent in the Ridvdn 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

This photograph of the Bahd’( House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois, was taken in October from a helicopter by Scot Corrie, photographer for The American Baha’i. The National Spiritual Assembly has been in the process of restoring and cleaning the ornamental concrete panels that have been damaged by weather. As @ part of the process, Midwest Survey has been contracted by Bahd’t Properties Inc. to record the precise location of every point of the ornamental concrete surJace in the interior and exterior of the building to within 1/8-inch using ¢ photogrametric 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.

Guldance from the Universal House of Justice om attracting people of capacity and promimence to the Faith. See Bahd'{ National Review, pages 7-10.

Friends are encouraged to use wisdom, discretion when applying Baha’i 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 workd order’’ or ‘unity in diversity” gaining widespread use, the friends should not leap to the conclusion that the leaders and publications are using the Baha’! Writings

tumultuous record of events which will have brought us to the Centenary of the Ascension of Baha'u'llah 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 Bahd'( Education Committee

November 1990

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 encour

See CURRENT page |! �[Page 2]2 / The American Baha’

November 1990

Some words to Baha’i 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. *’ (Baha'u'llah, Synopsis and Codification of the Kitdb-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

Service project helps Nevada Baha'i children raise money for orphans, AIDS victims

During Sunday morning sessions at the Northern Nevada Baha'i Children’s Teaching Institute, the children have been studying the writings of ‘Abdu’l-Baha 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 Baha'i representative at the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland, to be forwarded to the director of the WHO.

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

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 Baha’u'll4h 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 Kitdb-i-[gdn. 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, feach.

Let's say you read this quote one morning: “O My servants! Sorrow not f, 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 Baha'u'lldh, 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 Bawill 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

The American Bahd'( is published monthly by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United States, $36 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, IL 60091. Postmaster: Send address changes to Management Information Systems, Bahd’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 Executive editor: Jack Bowers. Editorial assistant: Scot Corrie, The American Bahd’i wel. Comes news, letters and other items of interest from individuals and the various institutions of the Faith. Articles should be written clearly and concisely; color or black-and-white glossy photographs should be included whenever possible. Please address all materials to the Editor, The American Bahd't, Witmette, 1. 60091. Copyright © 1990 by the National Spiritual Assem. bly of the Bahd'ls of the United States. World rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A.

Committee, c/o Baha'i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091

This month's quote:

“The utterance of God is a lamp, whose light is these words: Ye are the Sruits of one tree, and the leaves of one branch. Deal ye one with another with the utmost love and harmony, with

Top: Mar Laurico (second from left) teaching in a park in Glendale. Middle: Bahd't children display colorful pic Glendale

from page |

$$$ ______ program for new believers, to which non-Baha’is 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

friendliness and fellowship. He Who is the Day Star of Truth beareth Me wit ness! 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 Baha’u'lléh, p. 228)

tures produced during one of classes. Bottom: New believers prepare a barbecue of chicken and ribs.

many of the new believers, and Glendale Assembly is making arrangements to help meet that need. The first class in English was begun in October led by a Baha'i from a neighboring community.

This project, which was started with a few members of a local teaching com mittee gathering for prayers, now in volves many community members, both new and veteran believers, as weil as several Baha'is from nearby com munities. �[Page 3]The American Bahé’{ / November 1990 / 3

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

°

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 twomonths 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 Baha’{ 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 taxdeductible. 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 Baha’{ 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 Nationa! 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, “tare 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."”

Dear Baha'i Priend:

Bata ID Recep No

We gratefully acknowledge your contribution to the following Baht’ Funds

‘THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHA'IS OF THE UNITED STATES

(Pronse ntact)

Please make oll checks payable to the Natiomal Baba’ Fund. Resarn thes porssos us the spi emoiope prot

My contribution to the National Baha'i Fund is

Additional Contribution(s)

1. DYer GNo. All “Additional Contributions” listed above will be se

discretion of the National Spiritual Assembly If my answ

• Leal

my contribution is to a Fund or agency outside of the United States it will not be

tax deductible

2.OYes Contributions” noted abo

When applicable, please consider using the ~ Additions! as pant of the National Budget goal

Presse 02 ret ete bece Dis ow

What Is Everyone Saying? ILLINOIS

“|... we recently held a garage sale and offered up some of our possessions to Baha'u'llah. (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 Baha'u'llah 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 Baha'is. 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 to ward 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 Baha’u'llah’s confirmations for more excit ing experiences."”

Young pen pals

�[Page 4]4 The American Baha'i / November 1990

HS ils Teaching . Proc!

ersonal Development

Baha'u'llah

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Creating Patterns of Unity Getting Beyond Prejudice and Racism Stuy Guide by National Race Unity Commitiee Index by Frances Worthington SC Price To Be Announced Creating Patterns of Unity offers a systematic, four-step method for stadying the material found in The Power of Unity through prayer, meditation, study, and action. Using the guide will help you to develop a Gevotional attitude toward the study of unity. It provides an organized, consisiem, and intensive study method for individuals, communities, and imstitutions. 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. 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

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eT Nabil’s Narrative, Abridged by Zena Sorabjee

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The Bah4’{ Datebook for 148 B.E. is now more useful than ever includes 15 Gregorian months, beginning with January 1991 and ending with March 1992. The Gregorian dates have been enlarged for greater legibility. All Baha’i 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 Baha’ year.

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A Bahd’t History

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hild, Youth and

IN“S ACTIVITIES, REFERENCING, & STUDY

Trends in Bahé’t Education

Proceedings of the 2nd Symposium on

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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 Bahs’{ 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 Bahé'f Education were held. ‘The proceedings of the second symposium are published from invited and submitted papers

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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 oe individual's struggle to put into practice the teachings of Bahé"s"Idh. ip the form of 28 short stories, Mr. Rutsicin illustrates how people from various walks of life have dealt with real-life experiences about hum! sacrifice, teaching, tests, faith, fear of God, backbiting, patience, anc the like. Winning Spiritual Battles will interest both youth and adults 5-1/8 x8 inches, 174 pages, references and notes

Bahd’l Publishing Trust of India

Career Planning—In Search of a Spiritually Satisfying Career

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�[Page 6]6 / The American Baha'i / November 1990

Time to assess progress in meeting pioneering goals

ee

.. . 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 goody 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.

Bahé’i Equality Conference held in Seneca Falls, N.Y.

The Bahé’{ 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 Baha'i 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.

Goal

2

4

GDR (East Germany) 2 2 2

1 4 2 4 4

1 4A 32

Yugoslavia

China

Totals

Short-Term Pioneers

Bulgaria

Caschoslovakia

Hungary

Poland

Rumania

USSR Ukraine Khazakhstan Other Republics

Yugoslavia

Mongolia

China

Totals

“Lithuania

Goal

R|eeeen -ernaH

wloco zoo ~coocelff Blp-con cveenelff > 5

at the beginning of the Six Year Plan, 20 remain to be filled: three in Africa— St. Helena, Namibia and Venda; and 17 im 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 Baha’u'llah’s resplendent Revelation.”’ (The Universal House of Justice, from a cable dated February 8, 1990, to the followers of Baha'u'llah throughout the world)

Baha'u'llah has exhorted those who are unable to arise personally to deputize another to go in their stead. Contributions to our National Fund ear TWO YEAR PLAN: U.S. PIONEERING GOALS August 1990

aR ghs a's onnnan Be Blbuwnis ~ono~~PP

marked 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."”

aah

cently set up and manned this display Faith table at a local shopping mall to offer

Baha'is have opportunity to travel to China

Opportunities ‘txist for a limited number of Bahs’'s 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 Bahé’{s, 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, inchudes 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-Bahé’{s traveling with cach group, and of course you will be free to teach them about the Faith. The Bahd’is 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 mainiand 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 Bah’! 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 onc guided by Mrs. Guillebeaux. Also, please contact the Office of Pioneering. Bah'{ National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039) to inform them of your plans.

———

to residents in the area.

SIX YEAR PLAN TOTALS

Total Goals Assigned 77 Piomeers'to Goal Countries 18% | Total Goals Filled 57 Pioneers to Noo-Goals M3 Total Open Goals 20 Pioneers Filling Goals for Other Countries § Total Pioneers Sent S45

“Includes Consolidation Goals

�[Page 7]BAHA’l NATIONAL REVIEW No. 130

The American Baha’{ / November 1990 / 7

Attracting people of capacity and prominence to the Faith

Dear Bahd’t Friends,

The Universal House of Justice draws to your attention that part of the most recent Ridvdn 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 the 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 Baha'u'llah. The friends should be confident that the spiritually minded and receptive souls among such people will eventually accept the truth of the Bahd't Revelation and join the ranks of its active supporters.

With loving Bahd’( greetings,

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

© PROMINENT PEOPLE

Extracts from the Baha'i Writings and letters written by or on behalf of Shoghi Effendi and the Universal House of Justice

‘Compiied by the Research Department of the Universal House of Justice

September 1990

L. The importance of guiding ‘distinguished souls to the Cause’ From the Writings of ‘Abdu'l-Bahé

“T 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 Kiyaniyan kings, and that its illustrious people may shine out amongst mankind with an extraordinary brilliance and attain to lasting happiness and contentment. (From a Tabket 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 Bahd’(s to seize the op 1. To Individual believers unless otherwise noted.

portunities of the present hour and, with wisdom, firm resolve and cheerfulness, impress the verities of their Faith upon the attention of every reasonableminded 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 cra inaugurated by Baha’u’ll4h. 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 Bahé’{ 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 whole-heartedly with the organized community of the Bah’(s in that area, will labor heart and soul to consolidate the foundations of Baha’{ belief and proclaim the tidings of the Promised Day.

“With regard to the Baha’ 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 Baha'u'llah. 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, ist rev. ed. Wilmette: Baha’{ Publishing Trust, 1976, p. 117)

“The paramount goal of the teaching work at the present time is to carry the message of Baha'u'llah 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 Baha’) community.’’ (October 31, 1967, to all Nationa! Spiritual Assemblies, published in Wellspring of Guicance: 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." (Ridvan 1978 to the International Baha'i 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.” (Ri¢vén 1983 to the Baha'is 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

2. The “‘loss of six Hands of the Cause” amd the “waves of bitter persecution” directed against the Bahd'( community in Iran. �[Page 8]8 / The American Baha'i / November 1990

BAHA’l NATIONAL REVIEW Ne. 130

BAHA’/ NATIONAL REVIEW

November 1990 No. 130

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 Baha’u'll4h’s revelation as the sole hope for the pacification and unification of the world. Simultaneous with 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 Baha’{ laws of personal living will assert the fullness of, and arouse a desire to share in, the Baha’{ 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 nonBaha'i 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."’ (Ridvan 1984 to the Baha’is of the world)

Tl. Some guidelines for reaching prominent people 2.1. ‘Establish ties of friendship’ From the Writings of ‘Abdu'l-Baha

“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 Baha’{ way of life, learn of the teachings of the Merciful One, and be informed 6f 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 cither 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

3. To Individual believers unless otherwise noted.

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. . . .

“He is sending you two copies ot ‘The DawnBreakers’ 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 Bahd'{ 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)

“He feelsthat 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 Baha’i, 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)

From letters written by the Universal House of Justice

“*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 ten¢ts 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 Baha’{ community. (Naw-Ruz 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 Bahd’{s . . . are too busy to assist, then you will have to cither redirect their efforts or call others to this task."’ (August 22, 1984, to a National Spiritual Assembly)

2.2 Attitudes and approaches From the Writings of Baha'u’lldh

“‘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)

From the Writings of “Abdu’l-Bahd

“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 beid 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)

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 @ 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-Bah4 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-Bahé’(s, 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 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)

“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

behalf of Shoghi Effendi, published in Bahd’f News No. 64, July 1932, p. 4)

“The letter you addressed to the Secretary of State, he liked very much. He sincerely through such approaches and �[Page 9]BAHA'l NATIONAL REVIEW No. 130

The American Baha'i / November 1990 / 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 Baha’u'llah.

“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 lit¢rature 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-Baha’{ work, so close to many of Baha’u’llah’s teachings, we believers must carry on our purely Baha’{ 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 cither wary or bold, they must act swiftly or mark time, they must use the direct or indirect method, they must be challenging or conciliatory, in strict accordance with the spiritual receptivity of the soul with whom they come in contact, whether he be a nobleman or a commoner, a

capitalist or a socialist, a statesman or a prince, an artisan or a beggar. In their presentation of the Message of Baha’u'll4h 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 politician, or a tradesman, or a man of

distraught and fear-stricken multitudes. . . ."’ (June 5, 1947, written by Shoghi Effendi to the Baha’{s of the West, published in Citadel of Faith: Messages to America 1947-1957, Wilmette: Baha'i 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 Baha’{ scholarship in order to attract 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 Baha'u'llah 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 Baha'u'llah 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 Baha’{ work and teaching, who will?

“On the other hand there is a big difference between this and learning. If the Bahé’{s 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 Baha’{ 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 Baha'is 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 Baha’{s with a specific program to offer society."" (July 5, 1949, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi)

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

“In view of the difficulty you have experienced in 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 Bah’ Faith as newsworthy material.” (January 5, 1981, written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice to a National Spiritual Assembly)

“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 Baha’{ 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 Baha'is 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 Baha'i 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."’ (Ridvan 1987, written by the Universal House of Justice to the Baha'is of the world)

2.3 The role of the Spiritual Assemblies

From letters written by or on behalf of Shoghi Effen di

“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 cither the Local or the National Assembly is not only useful but necessary, if important contacts of this sort are to be fruitful and promising. . . ."* (August 30, 1933, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi)

“*... .& 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 Baha’{s 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 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

8. To individual believers unless otherwise noted. �[Page 10]10 / The American Baha’{ / November 1990

BAHA’l NATIONAL REVIEW No. 130

BAHA’[ 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 Baha'is 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 Bahd’{ community and the basic tenets of the Faith, and winning their esteem and friendship.” (Naw-Ruz 1979, written by the Universal House of Justice to the Baha’fs 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 Bah4’{ community should indirectly draw the attention of people of all strata of society to the Cause so that it will be easier for the Baha’{s to have @ positive access to the officials in the time of need. Guly 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 Baha'u'llah was the heroic fortitude and patience of the beloved friends in Iran, which moved the Baha'i 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 Ad ministrative 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 Baha’{ external affairs representatives from Europe and North America, together with senior representatives of the Offices of the Baha’{ 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.’’ (Ridvaén 1988, written by the Universal House of Justice to the Baha'is of the world) 2.4 The ‘course of prudence’ From the Writings of ‘Abdu'l-Bahd

. . . 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 Jowliness 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 thou shalt have succeeded in winning the one and all, then shall the portals of heavenly guid: ance be opened wide; then shall the bounteous cup be

i

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)

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) “T 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 ourselves 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 Bahd’t institutions to present the Bahd’i 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 Bahd’t Assemblies should, however, refrain from bringing pressure to bear on the authorities in such matters, either separately or in concert with others. The Bahd’ts 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. Moreover, when considering whether or not it is wise to make such a submission on any particular matter, the Bahd't 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.

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 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 Bahd’is in relation towards governments...

“The general policy already enunciated by Shoghi Effendi in The World Order of Baha’u’lidh, 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 Bah4’{ 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 Baha'i 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 Baha'i 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 cirowmstances, operating internally and externally, is pressing the Baha’! 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 Bahé’{ community must increasingly cope both spiritually and practically, individual judgment ts 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 Baha’{s have developed or are capable of developing, to rely on their ability to engage the attention of such persons, because these Bahé'{s 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 govemnment’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 cverinsting glory. This is eternal grace."”

—‘Abdu'l-Bahd, The Indivichea! and Tracking, p. U3

�[Page 11]The American Bahdé'{ / November 1990 / 11

Baha’is are active at UN’s World Summit on Children

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 Sep

Reston Baha'is procialm Faith with tree plantings, booths at two festiva’

The Baha'is of Reston, Virginia, recently presented the message of Baha’u'llah 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 Bahd’{ information packet that included copies of the peace statement and the Bahd’{ statement on the environment.

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

National Assembly of Italy establishes ABS chapter

The National Spiritual Assembly of Italy has established the Italian

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

tember 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.

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 Baha’{ International Community (BIC) and U.S. Baha'i 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 Baha’u'll4h 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.

Current events

from page 1

aged to use caution and discretion.

Commenting on the relationship of Baha’fs 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 Bahd’/ 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 Bahd’{ 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 Baha’{ teachings to current

United Kingdom presents George Townshend prize for excellence In publishing to U.S.’ Kalimat Press

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

The award was made in recognition

and writing in Bahd’{ 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 Kalimét Press’ behalf, spoke about Kalimét’s achievements in Promoting deeper study Of the Faith, and in making the work of Baha’{ scholars available to the academic world, the general public, and the Beha’! community.

events, but to do so with wisdom, dis cretion, 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 Baha’{ National Center in Wilmette for guidance.

Wisconsin Baha’i School

The Wisconsin Bah4'{ School will host a session January 18-20 entitled “The Love of Baha’u'lléh: A Weekend of Spiritual Growth Through Immersion in the Writings of Baha'u'llah."

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.

A reception was held October 11 at the Bahd’t International Community's ofSices in New York in honor of Thomas Banyacya (second from left), messenger of the Hopl Indian prophecies. Mr. Banyacya was at the United Nations to

request permission to deliver the Hopi

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 th newly published books, The Universai Declaration of Human Rights and Blue and Beautiful: Planet Earth Our Home, arranging meetings for presentation of the books by UN Youth bassadors to a number of heads state.

Invited to observe the opening and concluding sessions of the Wor mit and to take part in a post-Su meeting were a select group of heads o 48 NGOs including Dr. Wilma Elli administrator-general of the BIC.

The purpose of the post-Sum: meeting was to evaluate the Summ: and its impact on NGO activities, i tify ways to ensure their active pai pation, explore ways to improv dination, and increase the sharin: information

Dr. Ellis told the ass pants that “‘the or make @ positive impac: the world’s children is for al o Organizations to work together to give them our top priority.””

When the Summit ended, 46 tries had formally indicated th ceptance of the Convention o Rights of the Child, one of the requit ments stipulated in the 10-point P’ of Action decided upon by the partici

pants.

Washington Bahé’is sponsor international potiuck supper

On September 30, the Bahd’is 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

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�[Page 12]12 / The American Baha'i / November 1990

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�[Page 14]14 / The American Baha'i / November 1990

oo a

Classified notices in The American Baha'l are published free of charge as a service to the Bahd’i 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 Sriends 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 Bahd’t Mast be well-versed in the Writings of the Faith and its Administrative Order, have proven writ ing skills, be able to analyze issues and events and present that analysis well in writing, and bea self-starter able to work well under pressure with minimal supervision. Please contact the Departof Human Resources, Bahé'! National IL 60091 (phone 708-869.

ment Center, Wilmette. 9),

PIONEERS (OVERSEAS)

POSITIONS available overseas: Africa —Cuket social and economic development practiSoners. The Gombdia: health and nutrition program manager. Transtei: medical doctors Americas—Brazil: elementary school teachers Belize: custodians for the Ametia Collins Initute. Honduras: field representative for AFSC programs. Australasia—Awajaleix Atoll: mechanics, fider 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 Pesce Corps. More than 800 positions will be filled during 1991 in more than $0 countries in Africa, Asia and Eastern Europe. Miscellaneous: program development director-A rica region (Washington, D.C.); educator/African studies, environment and resource use (St. Lawrence Universty, Canton, N.Y.). For more information about any of these positions, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahé'i 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 Bahé’{ faculty members need students to form a Baha'i 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 infor

— Administrative Services: media services assistant (Studio); secretary (float in three departments); mail services assistant; Human Resources representative — Bahé’{ 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

Employment opportunities at National Center

‘The Department of Human Resources at the Bahd’{ 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

708-865-9039, or send your qualifications to the Department of Human Resources, Bahé’{ National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

mation, phone Rick or Joyce Harmsen, 616-7961120, or write to Vivian Nazar, secretary, Babd'{ Group of Big Rapids,

Big Rapids, MI 49307.

THE BAHA’t Club at Cleveland Chiropractic College would like to encourage any Bahd'{s who are considering becoming chiropractors to study at the college in Kansas City, Missouri. Your enrollment before May 1991 could keep the Bahd’{ 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 Bahd'(s and need four more to form an Assembly. Information about housing, employment, etc., will be provided. Please phone Ezatullah Rohani, 602797-9470.

HOMEFRONT pioneers are needed on San Juan Island, Washington, to help re-form its jeopardized Assembly. Need five Bahd'{s 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 Baha"! 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 famly members or relatives who might have these letters from the Guardian is asked to contact the National Baha"{ Archives, Bahd’{ National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039).

THE NATIONAL Baha’! 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 Mational Rab4'( Archives, Ralé'( National Cen. ter, Wilmette, IL. 60091

WANTED

BAHA'I pioncer working as a regional education development administrator in the Caribbean seks 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,

vo Ono, PA 17077. For information, write to Marcus Day, Castries, St Lucia.

MISCELLANEOUS

COME TO El Salvador, Central America, and help the Bahd'is prociaim the Faith through a series of nationwide weekly half-hour television programs in Spanish. The Bahd'{ 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 in

accounts payable clerk

— Periodicals Office: writer/reporter, The American Baha'i?

— Persian/American Affairs Office: administrative assistant (must be fluent in Persian and English)*

• Bahd'l required for this position

Name Address Te Phone ( )__.( )_ Bahé’{ 1.D. number

volvement in this exciting and challenging pro Pictured is the Bahd' exhibit at the friends in the New York City area Au Ulysses S. Grant National Memorial, one of two exhibits erected by the

gust 12-19 during the annual Hariem Week festival.

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

More than 50 Baha'i adults and youth from the New York City and Boston areas spread the healing Message of Baha'u'llah during the annual Harlem Week festival August 12-19.

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

The Baha'i presence included ex hibits, 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 trans formation and spiritual empowerment

Baha'i literature including copies of “The Promise of World Peace’ was given out, while chikiren were given helium-filled balloons on which was written ‘Peace Through World Unity and the telephone number of the Ba ha’{ Center in New York City

‘Excellence In all things. . .’

Badi Ebrahimifard, a Baha'i 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 Rowhipour, a Baha'i 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” Baha'i youth conference last summer in the Dallas Metroplex.

Paula and Stefany Tyler, sisters in a Baha’{ 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 Baha’i 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 be Sogiag 19 Ttet wocnan ofiirentan Gescent ever to Sein @ MiManaN Che com petition.

Miatta Rice, a 13-year-old Baha’{ 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 Bahd'{ 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]The American Baha’

News in brief

Sixth Dayspring Baha’i Summer School in Maryland largest ever with 270 present

The sixth annual Dayspring Baha'i 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 Baha'u'llah and the Universal House of Justice’s 1990 Ridvan message, the friends raised $11,216 for the Arc including a $1,000 gift from

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 Baha’{ Conference, died April 2% 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 SOth anniversary as a Baha'i.

EI Ruisefior (The Nightingale), is a Bahai magazine with articles in Spanish and Engish

Assembly of San Femando, Cal distributed quarterty a nS are now available; the

side the USA Me and tele. | phone number and send it to E! Ruiseftor, P.O.Box 512 San Fernando, Ca 91340. For further informat | publication call (818) 361-693

The Bahd’{ community of Toppenish, Washington, presented its first ‘Bahd'( Peace Award’ and $300 scholarship this year to Paul Webber (center), a graduating senior at Toppenish High School whose list of accomplishments

the operating funds of the Dayspring School Committee

On September 15, more than 300 people (including more than 100 nonBaha'is) attended the fifth annual Baha’i Peace Dinner in Houston, Texas.

The program included a panel discussion on ‘Achieving and Maintaining World Peace.’’ Panelists were Baha’i 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 Baha'i Youth Workshop and vocalist Carla Baker of New Orleans.

.

Last spring the Baha'is 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 peo: ple took part in the march, 47 of whom were not Baha’(s.

A number of pamphlets about the Faith were accepted, and the Baha'is of Longmont continue to receive phone inquiries from those who took part in

or heard about the march. °

Joseph Charles loas, who was named by ‘Abdu'l-Baha 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. Toas’ mother, Maria loas, ‘Abdu’lBaha said, ‘‘Name thy dear baby Joseph. I pray forshim and ask confirmations for him. vd

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.

After sponsoring a float for the past Sive years in the annual Greenbelt (Maryland) Labor Day parade and festival, the Bahd'i community of Greenbelt decided this year to have a booth at which fair-goers could design and have made individualized plasticcovered buttons. More than 250 buttons were made during the 32 hours in

All 10 of the loas children became Baha'is 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 for ward from a crowd of people to have his picture taken

That photograph, in which ‘Abdu'l Baha is flanked by young Joseph loas and Ruhiyyeh McComb, has appeared many times in Baha'i publications all over the world

Thirty 11-by-14 color prints of ¢ Shrine of the Bab on Mount Carm are among 60 photographs being dis played through December 31 at Buck nell University in Lewisburg, Pennsyl vania

Tevita Halaholo, one of first Baha'is in Tonga Islands, dies

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

Mr. Halaholo, who was introduced to the Faith by Knights of Baha’u'll4h 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 Baha'i 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

‘um a

._ ——

which the booth was open, and the friends also sold peace merchandise including T-shirts and bumpe: en As a result, the Bahd’ of Greenbe!

were able to contribute more than to the endowment Chair for World Peace a sity of Maryland in College

The photographs hibit entitled ““L' Agenda and $0 Years of Photography by John F

Trauger.”

Mr. Trauger, a Baha’! who lives Canandaigua, New s a 194 graduate of Buckne! aught for 2 years at Roch s Technology following a caree to-journalis

The recent re-ele sey Lee the National Sp ven e

resent,

chairman

Organizations— 130 non-governmental orga membership in the m

6

Service held for Gary Hillaire, Lummi indian artist, carver

About 700 people neral and memoria! Hillaire, a Baha'i Washington, who di

Mr. Hillaire, a Lu well-known those who at not Baha'is, a

ded

IN MEMORIAM

Pansy Oleva Barr Rimersburg, PA

Rosie B. Foye Dawson, GA Pp

Maria Jesus Bernai Virginia Gans Kathrye &

Yuma, AZ Mobile, AL Colorado Spring: Bennie Bethea Ernest Kep! on Latta, SC Decatur, AL

Boyd Bethea Abbie Massey

Latta, SC Fort Worth, TX

Viola Bethea Isiah McCall

Latta, SC Cheraw, SC

Margharita Cerquone Encinitas, CA Walker Davis

Latta, SC

Robin Ann Munro Emporia, KS

Ethel Murray Bloomington, IL

�[Page 16]6 / The American Bahd’{ / November 1990

Maryland Baha'is take part in ‘Celebration of Unity’

In September, the Bahé’{s of Carroll Bahd’{ from Columbia, Maryland County and Westminster, Maryland,

' The purpose of the event was to helped organize and took part in a : “ - = “Celebration of Unity” at Uniontown ring people of different backgrounds Methodist Church. doser together, heip break down bar

About 60 people attended the ecu- between black and white church menical service that included music by 884 #eek points of unity

@ gospel choir from a local Baptist A half-page article about the service

church, the Baha’{ Children’s Choir, and the Baha’{ role in planning it ap

and an American Indian story-teller. peared September 29 in the Carrol The guest speaker was Fred Myers,a County Times.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

NOVEMBER

22-25: Ninth annual Thanksgiving Youth Conference to be heli Washington, D.C., area. For more information, phone Roya Ro 703-866-1509. 22-25: Thanksgiving session for singles with activities for children, Bo Baha'i School, Santa Cruz, CA. To register, send $35 deposit per per: Young Bahd’ts and their teacher in this calendars. The adults in the communi- Registrar, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060. Registration children's class in Stome Mountain, ty were so inspired by the children’s ef- mation: 408-423-3387. Program information: 805-933-1253 Georgia, recently raised $540 for the forts that they added a sizeable amount 30-December 2: Pioneering Institute with emphasis on American Indian Arc Fund by making and selling Bahd’{ to the children’s contribution. teaching, near Salem, Oregon. For more information, please co’ he Se ee ee ee ee ee eee enn Ome Cape ome 7 708-869-9039). i To erokd wmmecmaary Selays ie rwertving | DE MOVING? You copy of The Amorior BoAd'( tad ‘CEMBER I TELLUS YOUR acne ! 7-9: “Writing as a Tool for Social Change" with authors Guy M AGEMENT IXPORMATION SYS. | New ADDRESS — TEMS, Bb Natoma Come. Winer 1 | Cindy Savage and Lloyd Sieden, Bosch Baha'i School. To reserve ! suo going to eave and olat your ace eo | send a $100 deposit to: Writers, $00 Comstock Lane, Santa C 1. sobs 1 | 95060. For information, phone 408-423-3387 I, ! 7-9: International Visual Arts Conference, Antigua, Leeward Islands i i" Tew Pel eame—Plemse OO NOT exe aichnames 1 21-24: Sixth annual Grand Canyon Baha'i Conference, Phoenix, Ar ha zona. Speakers: Counselor Wilma Ellis, Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh, Reynaldo peal

= , 8 1 | Cruz. For information, write to P.O. Box 9961, Phoenix, AZ 88063, o

PP 1 | phone 602-995-3817 1 . . or. 1 21-25: Winter I general session (all ages), Bosch Baha'i School. To regis \*-a na a i ter, send $35 deposit per person to: Registrar, S00 Comstock Lane, Sante - radian come . Cruz, CA 95060. Registration information: 408-423-3387. Program infor leap aaa an | CNEW MAIL ADDRE | | imation: 805-933 1053, ADDRESS: ALL ADDRESS : 805-933-1253.

! 21-27: Baha! International Summer School, Matewi. Por information.

SGI Ease Raee Soca eet 1 | contact the Office of Pioneering, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette

60091 (phone 708-869-9039)

26-January 1: Swiss Baha'i Winter School. For information, contact the - A 1 Office of Pioneering, Baha'i National Center, Wilmette, IL GQO91 (phone | NEW ComMuUNTTY 1 708-869-9039). i 27-January 1; Family Winter Session, Bosch Bah4’{ School. To register I s ; nd a $35 deposi R 500 C & Lane, San Nemes of are Baht’) commensy Mowang dase 1 send a it per person to: Registrar, vomstoc! ic, nta | E-HOME TELEPHONE NUMBER F—WORK TELEPHONE NUMBERS: 1 Cruz, eet pean information: 408-423-3387. Program infor I i _ mation, 933-1253. i — a ca a — : 27-January 2: ‘‘Forum '90,"’ a five-day event for young adult Baha’{ professionals, Landegg Academy, Switzerland. Theme: “Reaching People of I I , : i es a ee | Capacity: The Challenge of the Hour.’’ Special guest: Dr. Robert C. Henle | derson, secretary-general, U.S. National Spiritual Assembly. For a program ee brochure, write to Landegg Academy, CH-9405 Wienacht, Switzerland, or Oars ener wed ese oy Se site Ames sact’? | | phone René Steiner, 41-71-91 91 31 or fax 41-71-91 43 01.

Scania | Se ey ee ee edhowe hnod oy comme 1. moe : 28-30: Bote Sone Winter School, Louis G. Gregory Baha’!

— =a oom (Sect sppunt oo eater elastase th hay Institute, Hemingway. Phone 803-558-5093. I ccovetew ov Sat or 0 ae aoc I 28-January 1: Atlanta Bahd’{ 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-Jamuary 1: Winter II general session (all ages), Bosch Baha’{ School. For information, phone 408-423-3387.

JANUARY 11-13: Institute, Bosch Baha’{ School, Santa Cruz, California. For more inf please contact the Office of Pioneering, Baha'i Na tional 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 Baha’! School. Conducted by Rick and Barbara Johnson. For information, phone 313-653-5033.

15-18: Special session for singles, Bosch Bahd’{ School. To register, send a deposit of $35 per person to the Registrar, Bosch Baha’{ 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, Bahd'{ National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039).

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