The American Bahá’í/Volume 21/Issue 3/Text

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$24,000,000 urgently needed to complete reserve fund

Plans to Initiate historic Arc project near final approval

TO ALL NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLIES KINDLY CONVEY ALL BELIEVERS NEWS PROGRESS HISTORIC MOUNT CARMEL PROJECTS.

FOLLOWING STRENUOUS DETAILED NEGOTIATIONS TOWN PLANNING SCHEME ESSENTIAL FOR INITIATION OF PROJECTS WAS OFFICIALLY APPROVED BY LOCAL TOWN PLANNING COMMITTEE AND CITY COUNCIL OF HAIFA ON 11 OCTOBER 1989, CONFIRM ING GOOD WILL TOWARD PROJECTS EXPRESSED BY CITY COUNCIL AT TIME INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION. SCHEME IS NOW BEFORE DISTRICT TOWN PLANNING COMMISSION FOR FINAL APPROVAL. THIS PLAN INCLUDES CANCELLATIONS TWO ROADS PREVIOUSLY APPROVED TO CROSS BAHA'I LANDS, AND LOWERING LEVEL MAIN THOROUGHFARE THUS PERMITTING CONSTRUCTION TERRACES LINKING GARDENS SUR ROUNDING SHRINE BAB WITH THOSE ADJACENT ARCHIVES BUILDING. GRANTING OF APPROVALS INVOLVES OUR COMMITMENT IMMEDIATELY START WORK.

GEOLOGICAL INVESTIGATIONS ANNOUNCED RIDVAN MESSAGE, REQUIRED FOR DESIGN FOUNDATIONS BUILDINGS ARC, NOW COMPLETED.

BUILDING PERMIT DRAWINGS FOR ARCH See ARC page 2

merican Baha’i

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

New two-year teaching plan for Asia, E. Europe to be launched at Ridvan

FAR-REACHING EVENTS BEING ENACTED WORLD STAGE, PARTICULARLY IN BASTERN 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 LIFEGIVING ENTERPRISES BEING PURSUED BY INHERITORS BAHA’U"LLAH’S RESPLENDENT REVELATION.

REJOICE THEREFORE ANNOUNCE LAUNCHING AT RIDVAN OF SUBSIDIARY TWO-YEAR TEACHING PLAN FOR VAST REMAINING REACHES EASTERN EUROPE AND ASIA. MOMENTOUS STEP INVOLVES FURTHER SYSTEMATIC UNFOLDMENT PROVISIONS TABLETS MASTER-PLAN OF ‘ABDU’L-BAHA ALREADY IN ADVANCED STAGE OF OPERATION OTHER AREAS PLANET. REGIONAL ENTERPRISE, CONCEIVED IN CONSULTATION INTERNATIONAL TEACHING CENTER, DESIGNED SIGNIFICANTLY REINFORCE CURRENT SIX YEAR GLOBAL PLAN. OBJECTIVES INCLUDE ATTRACTION NUMEROUS NEW SUPPORTERS FAITH,

| GREAT INCREASE TRANSLATION, PUBLICATION AND DISSEMINATION BAHA’{ LITERATURE IN REQUISITE LANGUAGES ENTIRE AREA, AND EXTENSION BENEFICENT INFLUENCE DIVINELY APPOINTED ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER THROUGH ERECTION FRAMEWORK LOCAL NATIONAL BAHA’[ INSTITUTIONS IN AS MANY EASTERN COUNTRIES AS POSSIBLE UP TO AND INCLUDING RIDVAN 1992.

| CALLING UPON THOSE NATIONAL ASSEMBLIES EUROPE, ASIA | AND AMERICA WHICH BEAR PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY FOR | INDIVIDUAL NATIONS INVOLVED, TO CONSULT WITH COUN SELORS AND FORMULATE DETAILS SPECIFIC GOALS INCOR PORATING AND SUPPLEMENTING THOSE ALREADY ADOPTED

AND IN PROCESS ACCOMPLISHMENT UNDER SIX YEAR PLAN. | MOVED PAY TRIBUTE PRESENT HOUR REMARKABLE UNSUNG | ACHIEVEMENTS THOSE INSTITUTIONS AND INDIVIDUAL BE| LIEVERS PRESENTLY LABORING ADVANCEMENT CAUSE IN | EASTERN EUROPE AND SOVIET UNION, ACHIEVEMENTS | WHICH HAVE BLAZED TRAILS FOR COMING LARGE-SCALE IN| ITIATIVE. CALL UPON BAHA’f WORLD ARISE SUPPORT DIFFUSION WORLD-REDEEMING MESSAGE FAITH GOAL AREAS THROUGH SETTLEMENT PIONEERS AND THROUGH DISPATCH STEADY FLOW TRAVELING TEACHERS, ESPECIALLY THOSE WITH KNOWLEDGE LANGUAGES COUNTRIES AND REPUBLICS EASTERN BLOC.

| CONCOMITANT THESE MEASURES, VITAL ONGOING PROCESS | CHINESE TEACHING RECEIVING FURTHER IMPETUS.

BROAD VISTAS NOW OPEN TO FAITH GOD PROVIDE UN| PRECEDENTED OPPORTUNITIES WIN FRESH VICTORIES AS | WORTHY OFFERING SACRED THRESHOLD BLESSED BEAUTY

OCCASION COMMEMORATION FIRST CENTENARY HIS ASCEN| SION COMING HOLY YEAR. IMPLORING ABUNDANT OUTPOUR| ING DIVINE CONFIRMATIONS PARTICIPANTS ALL FACETS HISTORIC SIX YEAR CAMPAION.

UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE FEBRUARY 8, 1990

Volume 21, No. 3

Signing the Memorandum of Understanding to establish a Bahd’f Chair for World Peace at the University of Maryland in College Park as members of the National Spiritual Assembly look on are (left to right) Judge Dorothy W. Nelson, chairman of the National Spir itual Assembly; Dean Murray Polakoff Of the university’s School of Social anc Behavioral Sciences; and Dr. Abdel R

Omran, acting director of the Center Jor International Development anc Conflict Management. (Articie

photos on page 2)

House of Justice welcomes Baha’i Chair's establishment

To the Bahd'ts of the world

With feelings of thankfulness and joy we announce an achievement of immense importance to the accelerating progress of the Cause of Bahd’u"llah. The Univer sity of Maryland and the National! Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United States recently signed a memorandum of understanding, establishing “The Baha’{ Chair for World Peace’’ at that university’s Center for ee Development and Conflict Management. The stated purpose of the Chair conduct and publish research, design courses and conduct seminars in the field o Baha’{ studies and world peace within an interdisciplinary context; to imitate public forums for discussing the issues proposed in the statement of the Universa: House of Justice entitled ‘The Promise of World Peace’; and to establish acedemic linkages with and provide technical assistance to Baha’ institutions im the fields of peace education and international development."’

This first initiative by a well-founded, significant institution of higher learning to formulate such a serious program of Baha’{ studies is a direct response fo the peace statement, as is borne out by a letter addressed to us by the director of the Center for International Development and Conflict Management in whech be said; ‘*With this letter | am answering on behalf of CIDCM and the University Maryland your call: ‘If the Baha’{ experience can contribute in whatever measure to reinforcing hope in the unity of the human race, we are happy to offer & as « model for study.’ '’

Fully cognizant of Bahd’u'llah’s praise of knowledge as and of the importance which He assigns to its acquisition, of

more

“wings to man's bie f ‘Abdu'l-Baha’s ad

See PEACE CHAIR page 2 �[Page 2]2 / The American Baha'i

March 1990

Maryland U. establishes first Baha’i Chair for World Peace

By LAURA H. ARTHUR

On January 26, the National Spiritual Assembly met with representauves of the University of Maryland in College Park to sign an historic Memorandum of Understanding to establish a Baha’i Chair for World Peace at the university's Center for International Development and Conflict Management (CIDCM).

Representing the university were Dr. Abdel R. Omran, acting director of the CIDCM; Dean Murray Polakoff of the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences; and Dr. Soheil Bushrui, a Baha’{ who is a visiting professor at the CIDCM and director of the Baha’i Chair

The Chair for World Peace, the first Baha"{ Chair to be established at any university—marking yet another stage in the Faith's rapid emergence from obscurity—is ‘‘dedicated to the advancement of knowledge in matters of conflict resolution and the promotion of peace and prosperity throughout the world.”*

Its purposes, as outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding, are:

(1) t© conduct and publish research, design courses and conduct seminars in the field of Baha'i studies and world peace within an interdisciplinary context;

(2) to initiate public forums for discussing the issues proposed in the Universal House of Justice's peace statement, ““The Promise of Worid Peace’’;

Arc

from page |

IVES BUILDING EXTENSION AND CENTER FOR STUDY OF THE TEXTS SUBMITTED, ENABLING CONSIDERATION APPLICATION BUILDING PERMIT RUN CONCURRENTLY LAST STAGE APPROVAL TOWN PLANNING SCHEME.

OF $50,000,000 CALLED FOR AS ESSENTIAL RESERVE FOR INITIATION CONSTRUCTION, APPROXIMATELY $26,000,000 SO FAR CONTRIBUTED. REMAINING SUM NOW URGENTLY NEEDED.

EXECUTION STUPENDOUS COLLECTIVE UNDERTAKING GATHERING MOMENTUM, PARALLELING EXTRAORDINARY DEVELOPMENTS WORLD SCENE, ACCELERATION CONVERSION PEOPLES CAUSE GOD, WIDER DIFFUSION MESSAGE BAHA’U’LLAH REMAINING AREAS GLOBE. SUPPLICATING BLESSINGS ALMIGHTY REINFORCE EVERY EFFORT HIS DEVOTED FOLLOWERS ACCOMPLISHMENT VITAL

TASKS. UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE JANUARY 23, 1990

The American Bahd'(\s published monthly by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'(s of the United States, 536 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, IL 60091. Postmaster: Send address change: to Management Information Systems, Bahd'( National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. Executive editor: Jack Bowers. Associate editor: Laura H. Arthur. The American Bahd'/ welcomes news, letters and other items of interest from individuals and the various institutions of the Paith. Artiches 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’(, Wilmetie, 1. (09\. Copyright © 1990 by the National Spiritual Assem bly of the Babs’ ls of the United States. World rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A

and

(3) to establish academic relations with and provide technical assistance to Baha’i institutions in the fields of peace education and international development.

The establishment of the Baha'i Chair requires an endowment of $1.5 million. The Bahaé’{ community, aided by the CIDCM, will raise the necessary funds to enable the Chair to become operative no later than July 1991.

Following the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding, the National Spiritual Assembly and CIDCM hosted a luncheon for 115 Baha’{s and guests at the university's Center for Adult Education.

Dean Polakoff presided, explaining in his opening remarks the vital need for the spiritual perspective the Chair will provide in the study of world peace and conflict resolution.

Other speakers were Dr. James A. Norton, chancellor of the University of Maryland System; Judge Dorothy W. Nelson, chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly; Dr. William F. Gibson, chairman of the National Board of Directors of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP); Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh, the National Assembly secretary for External Affairs; and Dr. Bushrui.

“Throughout the world,"’ said Dr. Norton, ‘‘countries are tearing down the old systems of government and setting up new ones to help in the quest for peace and stability.

“Though fragile, these governments today hold great promise for helping achieve world peace tomorrow. Through the sort of academic discourse made possible by the Baha’{ Chair, we at the University of Maryland can be active partners in this evolving process."’

After noting the historic significance of the occasion, Judge Nelson presented to Chancellor Norton and Dean Polakoff the National Assembly's check for $300,000 toward endowment of the Chair.

She then made the surprise announcement that another $50,000 had been contributed anonymously by a couple in the audience.

In his keynote address, Dr. Gibson related racism and ethnic conflicts to themes outlined in the peace statement.

“Prejudice and war,’’ he said, “‘have been expressions of the immature stages in a vast historical process.

“As a civil rights leader who has seen America grow up, to some extent,

infancy and childhood in its race relations, I have faith, despite the many trials and tribulations we've faced in the ‘movement,’ that this nation and this world community will ultimately mature.”’

Above: A view of the luncheon hosted by the National Spiritual Assembly and the University of Maryland’s Center for International Development and Conflict Management. Below: Addressing the luncheon are Dr. William

F. Gibson (left photo), chairman of the National Board of Directors of the NAACP, and Dean Murray Poiakofy of the university's School of Social anc Behavioral Sciences.

Dr. Kazemzadeh spoke about the purpose of the Chair, after which Dr. Bushrui closed the proceedings with a tribute to Dr. Edward Azar, director of the CIDCM, who first proposed the idea of a Baha’{ Chair for World Peace at the university in a letter to the Universal House of Justice.

Dr. Azar’s letter was a response to the House of Justice’s statement in “The Promise of World Peace’’ offering the Baha’{ community as ‘‘a model for study”’ of the way in which people of diverse backgrounds can learn to

live together in peace.

Dr. Azar, who was too ill to attend the signing and reception, was given nine red roses by the National Spiritual Assembly and CIDCM as a token of their appreciation for his work on behalf of the Chair.

Before the signing, Judge Neilson had received from Dean Polakoff two beautifully framed paintings commissioned by the CIDCM, entitled ““Dewn of the Dove,”’ as gifts from the university to the Universal House of Justice and the National Spiritual Assembly

Peace Chair

from page |

vice that we should “seek to impart the Message to influential persons and beand develop through similar stages of come a cause of guidance to the learned and distinguished"’; and of Shoghi Effendi’s call for a “resolute attempt”’ to reinforce measures “‘for the establishment of closer contact with the leaders of public thought, with colleges and universities, ’

we hail this seminal development both as a mark of the Faith's emergence from obscurity and as the harbinger of that day when hosts of scholars will dewote their energies to the exploration, exposition and defense of the dynamic Principles ammating the World Order of Baha'u'llah, thereby fulfilling the need identified by the beloved Guardian for ‘‘well-read, well-educated people, capable of correiating our teachings to the current thoughts of the leaders of society." On that day

we shall witness an expansion and consolidation of the community as has pot vet

been experienced.

May the Blessed Beauty enable the new Baha'i Chair for Workd Peace to achieve its laudable purpose; may He shower upon all who support it His abun

dant confirmations,

The Universal House of Justice Febrwary 12, 1990 �[Page 3]The American Baha’!

March 190

Atlanta Baha’is play leading role In King Week events

More than a thousand Baha'is from at least 30 states capped a week of activities honoring the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by marching January 15 in Atlanta’s annual King Day parade behind a 35-foot banner proclaiming that ‘The Baha’{ Faith Teaches the Oneness of Mankind.””

The sentiment expressed by the banner could be seen in the Baha’{s themselves as young and old, rich and poor, black, brown, yellow, red and white marched arm-in-arm past the estimated 200,000 onlookers along the parade route.

The marchers were followed by a Baha’{ float on which rode children of all races with entertainers Red Grammer and “‘Swan,’’ who are Bahd’{s. Nearly 40 members of the Atlanta Bahd’{ Youth Workshop walked behind the float.

Some of the Baha’{ marchers held placards bearing the names of their home states while others carried signs with Baha’{ beliefs and principles written on them in English or Spanish.

The nationally televised event was the centerpiece of a week of activities that began January 7 with an interfaith service at St. Philip's Cathedral attended by more than 700 people.

Two Baha'is served on the planning committee for the service and were onstage with 2S members of the clergy to help read the litany to Dr. King

Before the service about 20 young people including eight Baha'is attended a meeting to discuss current world is

Above: Bahd’( Roger Hogan speaks at

King Day in Redding, California. Below: Bahd’ts prepare to march in New Orleans’ King Day parade.

sues and local racial issues.

On Tuesday, January 9, Bahd’{s from Gwinnett County, Decatur and Covington took part in a service for “*Rededication to Peace and Justice’ at Ebenezer Baptist Church.

On January 12, the Spiritual Assembly of North Fulton County sponsored a Business and Professional Luncheon at the Marriott Hotel. About 25 people including 10 seekers heard the keynote speaker, Deloria Bighorn, a Baha’{ from Salem, Oregon, address the need for racial harmony and the Baha’{ concept of oneness.

Before the luncheon she and Gary McDaniel, a Baha’{ from Acworth, attended a meeting of the Cobb County Human Services Coalition and helped plan a day-long seminar on race relations for that group.

On January 13, Jack McCants, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly, was the speaker at a metrowide fireside attended by more than 300 people.

Red Grammer performed at the fireside and later for the children while Studio East, an East Indian jazz group, entertained after Mr. McCants’ talk.

The following day, 25 American Indians including two Bahd’{s consulted with representatives of the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for NonViolent Social Change about ways in which the Center could provide sup port for their concerns. Baha'is in the Atlanta area had rais ed $20,000 to provide transportation and hospitality for the visiting American Indians among whom were members of the Sioux, Winnebago, Poarch Creek, Mohawk, Cherokee, Ute, Iroquois, Seneca, Navajo, Chippewa, Shoshone, Cree and other tribes.

In their ranks were three prominent Native Americans; Peter Catches, a medicine man revered as a holy man; Arvol Lookinghorse, the 19th generation keeper of the Sacred Calf Pipe given to the Sioux nation (Lakota and Dakota) by the White Buffalo Calf Woman, looked upon by those tribes as a messenger from God; and Ruben Snake, head of the Native American Church.

On January 14, Auxiliary Board member Soo Fouts emceed and other Baha’is took part in a public meeting,

Above: Bahd’ts prepare to march in Atlanta’s Martin Luther King Day pe

rade. Below: Children (and Kingsic Swan) ride atop Atlanta's Bahd’! floc

“Prayers Around the World for Peace and Justice,"’ at the King Center.

The service was co-sponsored by the King Center, the Catholic Council for Interracial Justice, and the Baha’{s. Among its highlights was a Lakota pipe ceremony performed by Mr. Catches.

Later that day, Baha’{s were in the audience as Dr. King’s widow, Coretta Scott King, delivered the annual ‘‘State of the Dream’’ address at Ebenezer Baptist Church.

Also speaking at that event were the Rev. Jesse Jackson and Chinese student leader Chen Tong who was chosen to lead this year’s King Day parade.

Among the performers at the ‘‘Salute to Greatness"’ reception that evening was a Bahd’{, Phil Morrison.

On the morning of the federal holiday honoring Dr. King, which this year coincided with what would have been his actual 61st birthday, Mrs. Fouts recited a part of the litany to Dr. King during a televised ecumenical service at Ebenezer Baptist Church.

After introducing to the audience Mr. Catches and Patricia Locke, two of the American Indians brought to Atlanta by the Bahd’{s, Mrs. King remarked that this was the first time that all of the races under the sun had gathered to observe King Day.

Mrs. Locke, who is not a Baha‘, oaid tribute to Dr. King, spoke of the

@eol.@ ©

great Indian leaders Horse, Sitting Bull ar who also had dreams manity, and closed wi cr.

In the audience were as Gov. Joe Frank H secretary of the U.S Housing and Urban Deve former Atlanta Mayor May son

On the reviewing stand with Mr: King for the parade later that da two members of the Nationa! S Assembly, Alberta Deas and Henderson; Mrs. Fouts; and Miller of Roswell, co-ch Committee for Religious of the Martin Luther King Jr Holiday Commission

That evening Mrs. King invited »s eral of the American number of Baha'is Meanwhile, a fi Spiritual Assem

at the Baha’{ Ce ple present

Besides appearing in the parade, the Baha'i group “‘Swan"’ performed at « “Birthday Bash"’ at the King Cente and at a reception which followed

• • State of the Dream” address

Also during King Week, severe

See KING DAY page �[Page 4]4 / The American Baha’i / March 1990

House of Worship sets dates for 1990 Special Visits, encourages friends to take part

fea Pa

fy zene tetre lined. by @araller ii

“. . the Mashriqu’l-Adhkdr—the Administration’s mighty bulwark, the

symbol of its strength and the sign of its glory.’’—Shoghi Effendi, The World Order of Bahd’u'lidh, p. 80

The dates for this year’s Special Visit Programs at the Bahd’{ House of Worship have been set. The family program will be held Thursday, June 28, through Sunday, July 1, while the regular program (no separate children’s activities planned) will be held Thursday, August 30, through Sunday, September 2. These plans are conditional on the response of the Bahd’{ community.

A rcgistration form and more information are printed below. We encourage you to consider the spiritual bounties toward the teaching efforts and of your special relationship to the Mother Temple that can result from your special visit to the House of Worship.

Since registration is limited, it is important that those who register let us know if their plans change. This is a courtesy to those on the waiting list who might otherwise miss the opportunity to attend.

Highlights of the Special Visit include the opening program and reception in the Vistors’ Center; an address by the secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly; tours of the House of Worship, the National Archives, the Baha'i Publishing Trust, the Baha’i Home and Baha’{ National Center; a workshop on volunteer service at the House of Worship; an in-depth presentation from the Writings on the importance of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkar; and a farewell picnic lunch near Lake Michigan and the Haziratu’l-Quds. Morning devotions for the Special Visitors and the regular noontime devotions offer chances for all to participate as readers. Many other exciting programs and opportunities for service are a part of the visit.

It is not possible to express in words the bounties of taking part in daily devotions at the Temple. One cannot explain the feeling of joy that comes &s yOu take an opportunity to serve as a guide or as a feadier at Cie Mother’ Temple of the West, and the sense of humbleness as you view relics of Baha'u'llah and ‘Abdu’l-Bahd in the National Archives. To gain more intimate knowledge to share with your home community, to form new friendships, to share tears of joy, and to heighten your sense of belonging to the larger Baha’{ community are all opportunities not to be missed. Please join us at “the Administration's mighty bulwark" and see for yourself what it is all about.

Baha’| House of Worship Special Visit Program Registration Form

Housing rates per night at Evanston Holiday Inn (near public transportation to Wilmette): single or double, $60; more than two persons, $65 We will make your reservations; however, you will handle all financial arrangements with the hotel. There will be a $5 per person registration fee to help defray expenses of the program. Please make checks payable to ‘‘Baha’{ Services Fund.”’ For more information, please phone the Activities Office, 708-256-4400.

_—_—nmnmnm— a

(Detach here and return)

BAHA'I HOUSE OF WORSHIP SPECIAL VISIT PROGRAM REGISTRATION FORM

Please check program desired:

Family Special Visit: June 28 - July 1, 1990 Regular Special Visit: August 30 - Sept 2, 1990 (no separate children’s programs

Name & Baha'i IDe:

$$ City State: ZIP.

Telephone (Area Codey ( )

List additional names and Baha'i IDe's here: (Give ages of children) The August Special Visit will not be a family program. You will be responsible for your children

Address:

—————$— ns

Make Registration Fee payable to Baha'i Services Fund: Check or Money order please, so cath. Reture with this form to

Baha'i Howse of Worship Activities Office, Special Visit Program Wilmette, Ilinois 60091

Ss

Forthcoming book recalls life of service of the Hand of Cause Zikrullah Khadem

Shortly after the passing of the Hand of the Cause of God Zikrullah Khadem, his wife, Javidukht, approached the National Spiritual Assembly about publishing a book on his life and service.

The National Assembly assured Mrs. Khadem of its interest, pledged its support, and encouraged her to embark on @ project that has surpassed even her expectations.

The result is Zikrullah Khadem, the Itinerant Hand of the Cause of God: With Love. The book is a story of love—of Mr. Khadem'’s love of God, of the Central Figures of the Faith, and of his unfaltering devotion to Shoghi Effendi.

Part | is Mrs. Khadem's tender portrait of her husband, depicting more than 61 years of service to the Baha'i Faith.

She writes about his early life in Iran, their marriage and family life, and his appointment in 1952 as a Hand of the Cause of God.

She chronicles his international travels including trips to Europe, Africa, Asia and the Americas, and his involvement with Bahd’{ schools, conferences and conventions around the world.

The common thread running through all of Mr. Khadem's varied activities was his unflagging devotion to the Cause of Bahé’u’Il4h and to the institutions of the Faith.

Part 2 contains five essays written by

the Khadem children. Each essay, in its own way, captures the spirit of love and guidance that Mr. Khadem gave his children, and each one illustrates the emphasis he placed on obedience to the institutions, on Baha’{ family life and unity, and on fasting, prayer, pilgrimage and teaching. :

Together, the five accounts provide a vivid and unique glimpse of what it is like to grow up in a family firmly grounded in the teachings of the Faith.

Part 3 is a collection of four articies written by Mr. Khadem on themes close to his heart, such as the significance of various Baha’{ holy places, important milestones in Baha'i history, and the sufferings of the Central Figures of the Faith.

An appendix contains letters of remembrance from other Hands of the Cause of God, from Counselors, from Baha’{ institutions, and from many friends who were touched by his warmth and inspired by his zeal.

Zikrullah Khadem will be published this spring in hardcover and softcover editions and will include $3 photo graphs—most of which are being pubdlished for the first time.

Zikrullah Khadern, the Itinerant Hand of the Cause of God: With Love will inspire readers to live their lives ax Mr. Khadem did—with unwavering commitment to the principles of the Bahé’{ Faith. Mr. Khadem provide: for all a shining example of steadfastness, humility and love.

David Hofman to speak at Chinese Symposium set March 29-April 1 at Center in San Francisco

David Hofman, a retired member of the Universal House of Justice, will be among the speakers at the Baha’{ International Chinese Symposium to be held March 29-April 1 at the Bahd’{ Center in San Francisco, California.

Others scheduled to take part in the historic event include members of the Continental Board of Counselors and National Spiritual Assemblies (including the U.S.), members of the International Chinese Teaching Committee, the Bahé’{ Committee for China, and the director of the Baha’{ Office of Public Information in Hong Kong.

The symposium has been called by the National Spiritual Assembly to serve as a forum for Bahd’{s in this country and around the world to learn about Chinese culture and the most effective ways in which to share the Baha’{ teachings and principles with the cetlmated B00, OEC sneering in the

Besides talks and pane! discussions led by former Baha’{ pioneers to mainland China, the program will include a “Celebration of Chinese Culture”’ and a Southeast Asian Baha’{ Conference.

A number of Bahd’{s in the San Francisco area have offered

graciously hospitality for those who plan to attend the symposium.

If you would like to attend but are unable to afford the cost of hotel accommodations, please phone the San Francisco Baha’{ Center, 415-431-9990, to see what other arrangements can be made. Hospitality is limited.

On-site registration will be availabic for those who have not yet pre-regis

�[Page 5]The American Bahd’! / March 1990 / 5

Friends nearby asked to lend support As Ridvan Festival approaches, some

local Assembliles need help to re-form

The Festival of Ridvan is fast approaching. A remembrance of the days in which Bahdé’u’lléh declared His Mission, Ridvan is also the time when Baha’{s all over the world gather to elect the divinely ordained Spiritual Assemblies in each locality of nine or more adult (21 years of age or older) believems.

Listed here are local Spiritual Assemblies that have reported to the National Teaching Committee that they are in danger of losing their Assembly status because their community membership has fallen below the necessary nine adult believers needed to form an Assembly.

Baha’{s in surrounding communities are asked to help with teaching in these areas. Traveling teachers are encouraged to arrange itineraries that include these Bahd’{ communities. Prospective homefront pioneers are urged to consider them as pioneering posts.

Spiritual Assemblies that may not be able to re-form at Ridvdn and that have not reported their current status should contact the National Teaching Committee office.

California: Antelope JD, Belmont, Campbell, Goleta, Lawndale, Los Osos, Martinez, Ramona, Rancho Cordova, Rocklin, San Pablo, Temple City, Victorville, Walnut Yosemite/El Portal.

Colorado: Durango, Manitou

Springs, Wheat Ridge.

Delaware: Wilmington.

Florida: Daytona Beach, Martin County, St. John’s County.

Idaho: Nez Perce Reservation.

Illinois: De Kalb, Glen Ellyn, Morton Grove, Northfield Township, Park Forest, Winnetka.

Indiana: Lafayette.

Kansas: Derby, Newton.

Maryland: Harford County.

Massachusetts: Milford, Westbor ough Town.

Missouri: Jefferson City.

Minnesota: Anoka.

Montana: Helena.

Nebraska: Grand Island.

New Hampshire: Lebanon.

New Mexico: Paradise Hills.

New York: Greece Town.

Ohio; Beavercreek, Fairborn, Stow, Upper Arlington.

Oklahoma; Midwest City, City.

Oregon: Troutdale, Tualatin.

Texas: The Colony, University Park.

Vermont: Burlington.

Virginia; Orange County.

Washington: Kelso, Kennewick, Shelton, Spokane, Toppenish.

Wisconsin: Chippewa Falls, Midd. ton,

Wyoming: Cheyenne, Wind River.

Ponca

New coordinator for Chinese teaching named

The National Teaching Committee is pleased to announce that Steven Townsend has joined its office as coordinator for Chinese teaching and the

Northeastern states.

A pioneer to Hong Kong for cight years, he was a member of the National Spiritual Assembly there for five years and served as its secretary. If you wish to discuss the teaching of Chinese people or teaching efforts in the Northeastern states, please contact Mr. Townsend at the National Teaching

Committee office.

oer : From Jaana ‘613, the ‘National Teaching Committee hosted a training institute for prospective Bahd’( Youth Service Corps volunteers at the Louis OG. Gregory Bahd’( Institute. The youth who attended are slated to serve in Belize, Botswana, Brazil, Guyana, Honduras, and South Carolina. Auxiliary Board member Trudy White, along

with mine! vlantagrs Frank Robinson and John Levasseur, helped to facilitate the event. Any young Bahd'( who is interested in knowing more about the Bahd’( Youth Service Corps should contact the National Teaching Committee office, Bahd’{ National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039, ext. 232).

Teaching Institutes: a closer look

Reports from across the country are flowing in to the National Teaching Committee regarding the formation of teaching institutes. Examining their format at this time may further help the friends to initiate teaching institutes and to make them effective instruments of teaching.

The International Teaching Center has clarified the concept of teaching institutes, stating, “If such a program can be fostered, one-third of its effort and resources should focus on spiritual development, one-third on teaching and one-third on developing materials appropriate to large-scale expansion."’

Spiritual development can be achieved through prayer, memorization of passages from the Writings, study of the Writings about teaching, and deepening.

The idea of memorizing passages from the Writings is perhaps a less familiar aspect of spiritual preparation for teaching than prayer or deepening. The Word of God has the power of be ing magnetic, creative and transforming. This power attracts people, affects them, and changes the spirit, renewing life and empowering the individual.

The ability to teach through use of the Word of God itself is a tremendous bounty that has been given to Baha’{s.

Study of the Baha’{ writings on teaching is essential in understanding the process of teaching. Many of these writings have been outlined and compiled in books such as The Individual and Teaching, A Special Measure of Love, Effective Teaching and Building Unity of Thought on Teaching.

The National Teaching Committee recommends starting with the Effective Teaching workbook because it examines the nature and purpose of effective teaching and the need to make systematic teaching plans. It also offers

practical advice for initiating teaching efforts.

Deepening enriches both the teachers and students. Developing courses for deepening not only benefits those who are already Bah’ fs, it ensures that new believers will be able to increase their knowledge of the Faith in such areas as its history,.Central Figures and basic principles, and the Covenant, thus strengthening their bond to the Cause of God and confirming them in its service.

The International Teaching Center, in regard to the element of deepening that takes place within an institute, points out that ‘‘not every deepening activity of a group of Baha'is... could be called an institute." Deepening within the framework of an institute is to foster entry by troops.

Developed for use in deepening the friends’ knowledge of and appreciation for the Faith is the series of workbooks The Word of God; The Covenant: Its Origin and Meaning and Our Attitude Toward It, and The Significance of Bahd’u'lidh’s Revelation.

Using these workbooks, along with Effective Teaching, allows the institutes to immediately focus their attention on the necessary work.

The second of the three aspects that teaching institutes should address is the work of teaching itself. The time de voted to teaching should involve an ongoing process of action and reflection whereby teaching efforts are accompenied by evaluation of those efforts

oratory where various methods arc tried. However, as not all experiment are successful, periodic evaluation is necessary so that the institute can proceed using the most effective methods possible.

The purpose of teaching activities is not to hold an event but to further « process that will generate even more teachers of the Faith, touch morc hearts, and ultimately transform the world.

In teaching, many kinds of methods may be used, but the process & the same: teaching oneself, finding and attracting receptive souls, delivering the Message of Bahdé’u"llah with wisdom nurturing souls to acceptance of the Cause, and confirming the students to active service where they are arising to teach on their own

As many teaching metitutes targe 2 specific population (perhaps « minority or other group), the final aspect of = stitutes, the development of maicrial: for use in teaching, becomes csp-cially important.

Drawing primarily on the Bahé Writings, but allowing for the possibile inclusion of other types of materials members of teaching institutes can de velop teaching tools, based on the needs and capacities of the targe group, es well as capitalizing on the local resources of the friends involved

Teaching people from another culture may require special materials After studying the culture and finding what is most relevant to its members teaching materials should be developed that relate directly to their comcerns and interests.

Booklets including some prayers writings and useful information have been developed and used successfull by some institutes.

Teaching institutes are indeed grassroots efforts, and the friends should include as little administrative machinery as possible and simply concentrate on the process of teaching.

Auxiliary Board members and their assistants are ready and vital resources for those who cither have started or wish to start a teaching institute, and they should be called upon freely

For more information about teaching institutes, please contact your near est Auxiliary Board member or assis

Tearhime

tant, or phone the National T Committee office,

708-869-9039

BAHA’‘I YOUTH SERVICE CORPS

“sally forth ‘unrestrained as the wind”

For more information contact

National Teaching Committee Baha'i National Center Wilmette, Dlinois 60091

Phone: 7POR/RSY-90.39, ext. LU �[Page 6]6 / The American Baha'i / March 1990

Pioneering: more than moving, it’s ‘love in action’

—

Pioneering is not limited to a physical move or a change in material circumstances. It is a moving from old habits and ways of thinking to broader horizons—physical and/or spiritual. It is love in action. As the beloved Guardian, Shoghi Effendi, wrote:

“Pioneer service in these epochmaking days need not be confined to going out in foreign fields. The friends can pioneer on their Assemblies in helping to bring about a keener vision of what their duties are; they can pioneer in developing new local teaching methods, new contacts with new class¢ of people, indeed they can even be said to pioneer inwardly, finding new depth in their own souls and new way: in which their own God-given capacities can be put to use in serving the Faith.”’

Everyone is able to serve Baha'u'llah in some capacity. Here in the Office of Pioneering, our vision of pioneering continues to broaden as we find ourselves exploring the concept of a lifetime of service.

As part of this process we are also reconsidering programs such as the Pioneer Training Institutes, originally designed to educate prospective pioneers about, and orient them toward their new field of service overseas.

We feel the Institute must evolve into @ program that will respond to this broader vision. To achieve this change and at the same time provide for the needs of the friends going abroad, the focal point in most of the Institutes will continue to be the spiritual and practical preparation for pioneering, and each Institute will have modules covering such vital aspects of our lives as

Glenwood Springs Baha’is offering classes In Russian

In January, the Bahd’{ community of Glenwood Springs, Colorado, began offering weekly classes in Russian for residents in that area through the Soviet-American Cooperation Society, which was organized by Baha’{s.

The first class, on January 11, drew 25 people, and 29 are presently enrolled in the course, whose teacher, Jaci Spuhler, has a degree in Russian from the University of California-Riverside.

Overseas events, projects, conferences

Alaska: Northern Star Project; needs traveling teachers to help the teaching work in the Aleutian Island chain villages, June-August 1990.

Canada: Yukon Baha’{ Institute, ongoing.

China: Sino-American Women's Conference, June 25-28.

Fiji Islands: Radio communications volunteer needed to help produce radio programs for deepening local believers, ongoing.

Guatemala; Project Quiche, urgent need for Spanish-speaking teachers to help reach the Maya Quiche Indians, ongoing.

Puerto Rico; Brilliant Star Project, mass teaching, ongoing.

Trinidad: Ugo Giachery Teaching Project, ongoing.

Yugoslavia: Inter-University Centre Dubrovnik—‘‘Future of Religion: Autonomy and Solidarity,’’ April 16-27.

For more information, contact the Office of Pioneering, Baha’! National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 708-869-9039.

understanding the Covenant, developing cross-cultural/ethnic sensitivity, the family, and social and economic development.

We invite anyone who is interested in taking part in a Pioneer Training Institute to keep the following dates in mind and to please let us know which

one you would like to attend.

April 5-8, 1990: Bahaé’{ National Center (Evanston, Illinois).

July 6-11; Louhelen Bah&’{ School (Davison, Michigan).

Mid-August: Native American Baha’{ Institute (Houck, Arizona).

September 1-2: Louis Gregory Ba ha'{ Institute (Hemingway, South Csrolina).

October/November: Green Acre Baha’i School (Eliot, Maine).

For more information, write to the Office of Pioneering, Baha’{ National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 708-869-9039.

In health, education, agriculture, engineering U.S. personnel to remain in demand for positions overseas

The international job market is determined by the need for new information and technology. U.S. personnel are in demand overseas because certain skills are unavailable locally.

The role of the individual expatriate is to perform a specific task and transfer appropriate skills to local nationals. (Every country in the world will continue to preserve its jobs for its own citizens.)

The U.S. government will provide entry-level opportunities through various federal agencies.

Other entry-level positions include those with volunteer organizations and internship programs at a variety of international development organizations. Salaries are meager or non-existent, but one can gain an insider's view of international development and enhanced networking capabilities.

Prayer by ‘Abdu’l-Bahé read at Chicago Human Relations Commission’s 44th luncheon

In January, the National Spiritual Assembly was invited to take part in the 44th annual awards luncheon of the Chicago Commission on Human Relations.

Before an audience that included Mayor Richard Daley and other dignitaries, Dr. Robert C. Henderson, secretary of the National Assembly, delivered the benediction and read the prayer by ‘Abdu’l-Baha that begins, ‘‘O Thou kind Lord! Thou has created humanity from the same stock... ."’

The Commission on Human Relations is the arm of city government dedicated to building stable multi-ethnic and multi-racial communities in Chicago, to building bridges of understanding among these groups, and to working with individuals and organizations to combat prejudice and discrimination.

Each year the commission presents awards to those who have made outstanding contributions to improving human relations in Chicago.

The greatest number of opportunities and the most steady demand in the "90s will be for those qualified in the following fields: education, health care, agriculture, and civil engineering.

Information management professionals will be in growing demand as industries adopt new computer systems to lower operating costs and increase efficiency.

Also, opportunities for business and financial professionals will grow as traditiona) trade barriers weaken or even disappear, especially in Japan, China, the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe.

It is important to note that most of these positions will be part of the ““hidden job market” (filled from within companies, not through outside recruitment advertising).

While employers hiring for international positions will continue to require candidates who have special skills and experience, anyone can work overseas if he or she is willing to forego immediate gratification and build an international career through participetion in internships, volunteer programs or entry-level positions with U.S. government and ground floor opportunities at firms with international opere tons

A Recognition Ceremony was held last October 12 to commemorate the formation at Ridvdn of the first Spiritual Assembly of Glendale Heights, Illinois. On November 16, the new Assembly presented copies of ‘The Promise of World Peace’ to the village pres

ident and village board. Assembly members are (seated left to right) Barbara Breitlander, Sima Moazzaz, Matiheh Stoakley, Rebecca Koch-Percic and (standing ieft to right) Hormoz Moazzaz, Behrouz Sabeti, Victoria Sebeti, Yvor Stoakley, James Percic.

Young Bahé’i profiled In college’s annual report

Mitchell (Rocky) Moncho, a Baha’{ from Botswana who is attending Bryant College in Rhode Island, was profiled in the college’s Report of the President for 1988-89 under the headline ‘‘African student works toward world peace."’

Mr. Moncho, it says, ‘‘credits his humanitarian aspirations to his Baha’; faith, which asserts that mankind is one and that we should serve others.”*

After graduation, the article continues, he ‘thopes to embark on an 18-month trek with a group of Baha’ friends. Using two Jeeps, they plan to begin at the northernmost point of

North America and drive to the south ern tip of South America.

“From there, they will put the vehicles on ships and sail across the Pecific where they will resume their ‘round-the-world journey.”

Mr. Moncho is a member of the U.S National Youth Committee.

CORRECTION

We regret that Martin Ardekany of listed in the “In Memoriam” column in the January issue of The Americen Bahd'Y, and wish to reassure his friends that Mr. Ardekany is alive and well

�[Page 7]The American Baha’! / March 1990 / 7

‘Abdu’l-Baha: ‘Remember not your own limitations

‘THE FIRST CONDITION...’

CA “The first condition is absolute love

and harmony among the members. . . ."’"—‘Abdu’l-Baha

oO

The message of January 23 from the Universal House of Justice, in which the urgent call is raised to gather the remaining $24 million needed to complete the initial reserve for the work on the Arc on Mount Carmel, has forcefully reminded us how brief is the time, how tremendous are the challenges, and how great are the opportunities that face this generation of Baha’u’llah’s followers.

A truly staggering amount of money is needed to fulfill, on the one hand, our stewardship of the Faith in this country, and, on the other, to assume a role in building the Arc that befits this nation of ‘‘spiritual descendants of the Dawn-breakers.”’

We can choose to respond to these needs of the Cause in one of two ways: we can either feel overwhelmed by their magnitude, or we can accept them as keys to a deeper understanding of the meaning of the Faith and, in particular, of reliance on God. By sending its recent message, the House of Justice has shown that it knows which choice we will make.

When we look at ourselves and our communities, our first impression is that we simply are not equal to the task. Where will the people and the funds come from?

There will be many answers, and they will come from the consultation and the actions of all the believers in every field: teaching, praying, struggling to live the Baha'i life.

The Bahd’ls of Ventura County and Agoura Hills, California, observed United Nations Human Rights Day last December by presenting awards to two local women for their work in support of human rights and human dignity. Honored at a luncheon attended by 127 people including several dignitaries were Jeanne San Carlos (second from left), a long-time volunteer with the FLAIR literacy program for the disad We would like to share with you some passages from Paris Talks that we hope will facilitate your consultation and personal thinking:

“Remember not your own limitations; the help of God will come to you. Forget yourself. God’s help will surely come!

“When you call on the Mercy of God waiting to reinforce you, your strength will be tenfold.

“Look at me: I am so feeble, yet I have had the strength to come amongst you: a poor servant of God, who has been enabled to give you this message! I shall not be with you long! One must never consider one’s own feebleness, it is the strength of the Holy Spirit of Love, which gives the power to teach. The thought of our own weakness could only bring despair. We must look higher than all earthly thoughts; detach ourselves from every material idea, crave for the things of the spirit; Six our eyes on the everlasting bountiful Mercy of the Almighty, Who will fill our souls with the gladness of joySul service to His command ‘Love One Another.’ "’ (pp. 38-39)

. . . | love you all most dearly.

“Day and night I pray to Heaven for you that strength may be yours, and that, one and all, you may participate in the blessings of Bahd’u'lldh, and enter into the Kingdom. . . .

“May this boundless love so fill your hearts and minds that sadness may find mo room to enter and may you with Joyful hearts soar like birds into the Divine Radiance. . . .

“‘May your souls receive help and comfort, and, being so strengthened, may they be enabled to live in accordance with the teachings of Bahd’u'lldh.

“T pray for each and all that you may be as flames of love in the world, and that the brightness of your light

vantaged in Santa Paula, and Carmen Ramirez (fourth from left), director of Channel Counties Legal Services Association, which provides legal aid for the poor and disadvantaged. Each of the honorees received a plaque designed and created by Vern Allie, a wellknown sculptor from Los Gatos who is a Bahd’t. Articles about the event appeared in several local newspapers.

and the warmth of your affection may reach the heart of every sad and sorrowing child of God.

“May you be as shining stars, bright and luminous for ever in the Kingdom.”’ (pp. 95-96)

Pictured are panelists at a program entitled ‘Racial Unity... America's Challenge’ presented last September by the Bahd’( Association at the Univer sity of Texas in Austin. About 250 people attended the event. Panelists in cluded (left to right) Gary Bledsoe,

chairman of the Austin chapter of the NAACP; author Nat Rutstein, who & a Bahd'(; John Hanson, hast of @ ne tionally syndicated talk show In Black America’; and Dr. Wright, director of the university's C

Afro-American Studies

Baha’is at University of Texas work to spread Cause of God

The 15-member Bahd’{ Association at the University of Texas in Austin carried out a number of programs last year designed to spread the Teachings of the Faith on campus including: _

1. Regular weekly firesides that have drawn as many as 50 seekers and led to the enlistment of many non-Bah4’{s as members of the Association and as participants in weekly deepenings.

2. A manned table in the campus mall that has offered invitations to firesides and various Bahdé’{ pamphiets and has been seen by an estimated 20,000 students.

3. A committee assigned to work on original videos in support of the Faith which has completed a half-hour program on a border teaching project, a 20-minute program on a community

service project, and « six-minuis pro motional music video

In addition to these ongoing pro grams, the Association last year took part in @ service project to help the homeless; lent its support to the “*Fuego de la Frontera’’ border teact ing campaign in south Texas and northeastern New Mexico; and held a conference on campus entitled “Racial Unity . . . America’s Challenge”’ that drew an audience of about 250 inciuding 100 non-Baha'is.

This year’s plans included a January conference whose theme was “The 1990s: Dawn of a New Millennium

The Association has received widespread publicity for its events in local Newspapers and on radio and television.

Baha’is In Louhelen Residential Program achieve outstanding academic success In college programs

The Council and staff of the Louhelen Baha’{ School in Davison, Michigan, are pleased to share news of the accomplishments of several of the students in the Louhelen Residential Program.

Shirlene Brown, a student from South Carolina and former announcer on WLGI Radio Baha’{, is this semester’s recipient of the Walter Memorial Scholarship for the Performing Arts at Mott Community College, awarded for her ‘‘outstanding accomplishments in music."’

Leonda Williams, from Virginia, is completing her work in urban planning at Mott, and has been accepted into the competitive School of Natural Resources at the University of MichiganAnn Arbor. She will transfer there in the fall of 1990.

Christopher Mehdi Mansouri, chanical engineering major at achieved an outstanding 4.0 point average last semester. Mehdi from Quito, Ecuador, has been accepted at Michigan —— cal University for the fall of 1990

Students with grade point averages of 3.0 or better include Shamin Abmadzadegan (from Haifa, Israci), Shir lene Brown, Khalila Cornell (H ras), Lisa Mandeville (Japan), T Newton (the Bahamas), Aminata Turay (Sierra Leone) and Leonda Williams.

Information about the Loubelen Residential Program can be obtained from the Louhelen Baha’{ School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423 (phone 313-453-5033) �[Page 8]8 /. The American Bahd’i/ March 1990

eh

rstanding Baha‘u’llah’s World ++ a ; si , 8 > i a a 2 ee leaching ¢ Proclamation ¢ Personal Det

UNDERSTANDING THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE FAITH Universal House of Justice sends compilation on Bahé' { Elections "OBTHC GMING . \

Baha’ Elections _ scs1.9

from the Research Department of the Baha’ { World Center The Sanctityand Nature ofBahd’{ the timely compilation to help the

Elections, a new pared by the Research

Universal House of Justice refers to Bahd’f Elecdoms 2s a tool “to increase the understanding of the believts regarding the nature and sanctity of these elections. . . .” ht will also help Baha'is and Bahd’t institutions prepare themselves for “the expected rapid increase in the number of believers.”

Although many of the quotavons included in Bahd’! Elections are found in other sources, the Universal House of Justice provided

pre

friends deepen on a topic that is

8 of belicvers” are encouraged to study Bahd’/ Elections and to begin careful and sustained planning” for an “ongoing program for the deepening of the friends in the fundamentals of Bah4’f administration.”

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from the Research Department of the Universal House of Justice

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Now available in booklet form, the compilation entitled Conservation of the Earth’s Resources from the Research Department of the Bah4’{ World Center, gives us fresh perspective for “. . . assisting in endeavors to conserve the environment in ways which blend with the rhythm and life of our community” and for making these efforts “assume more importance in Bahé’{ activities.”

The Universal House of Justice, ina letter introducing the compilation, states that “this compilation of extracts from the Bahd’f writings has been published to

encourage a dynamic response to this invitation” of humanizing and Spiritualizing the environment problem.

“These extracts will deepen our appreciation of the Bah4’f concept of nature, and enhance our underStanding of humankind’s relationship to nature and of our responsibility to preserve the world's ecological balance. They will also prove avaluable guide for those friends of the Bah4'f community who are interested in discovering more about the distinctive Baha’ approach to the Solution of pressing social problems. Armed with increasing know! TEACHING AND SHARING THE FAITH OF BAHA'U'LLAH Conservation

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The new compilation explores fundamental principles such as Nature as a Reflection of the Divine; and the between Man and Nature; Protection of the Environment; and the Prospect for the Future.

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OFF �[Page 9]The American Band’! / March 1950 /6

BAHA’'| NATIONAL REVIEW

MARCH 1990

NO. 127

‘The Sanctity and Nature of Baha’i Elections’

To all National Spiritual Assemblies Dear Bahd’i Friends,

The Universal House of Justice feels it is timely to release a compilation on Bahd’i elections as a useful tool to belp National Spiritual Assemblies to increase the understanding of the believers regarding the nature and sanctity of these elections, and to prepare themselves for the expected rapid increase in the sumber of believers. A compilation entitled ‘‘The Sanctity and Nature of Bahd’{ Elections’’ has been

by the Research Department, and a copy is

The study of this compilation will require careful and sustained planning by the National Spiritual Assemblies and local Spiritual Assemblies, and it should

become part of the ongoing program for the deepen i

elections, National Conventions and local Assembly elections will attract the assistance and blessings of divine Concourse.

With loving Baha'i greetings,

g

“On the election day, the friends must whole heartedly participate in the elections, in unity and amity, turning their hearts to God, detached from all

any administrative agency, must approach their task with absolute detachment and must concentrate their attention on the most important and pressing issues.’’ (August 12, 1933, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to the National Spiritual Assemby of the United States and Canada, published in ‘‘The National Spiritual Assembly,”’ compiled by the Universal House of Justice. Wilmette: Bahé’{ Publishing Trust, 1972, p. 24) G3)

“Such a rectitude of conduct must manifest itself, with ever-increasing potency, in every verdict which

‘The alm should always be so to educate the friends during the year that they consider their participation In Baké’i elections not only as a right they exercise, but as a spiritual obligation which, when discharged In the proper Baha’ spirit, contributes to the health and growth of the Baha’i community.’

the elected representatives of the Baha’! community, in whatever capacity they may find themselves, may be called upon to pronounce. .. . It must be exemplified in the conduct of all Baha’! electors, when exercising their sacred rights and functions. .. .’’ (December 25, 1938, written by Shoghi Effendi to the Baha'is of the United States and Canada, published as The Advent of Divine Justice. Wilmette: Baha’{ Publishing Trust, 1984, p. 26) (4) From communications written by the Universal House of Justice

“The conditions of limited manpower, of difficulties in traveling and of illiteracy among the local people are found in varying degrees in other countries of the world, and we have always and everywhere urged the National Spiritual Assemblies concerned to guide and teach the friends in proper Baha’{ administrative

“The aim should always be so to educate the friends during the year that they consider their participation in Bahd’{ elections not only as a right they

the health and growth of the Baha’{ community.’’ (From a memorandum dated June 18, 1980, to the International Teaching Center) (6)

the Baha’{ Assembly.’’ (In the handwriting of Shoghi Effendi, appended to a letter dated December 27, 1923, written on his behalf to the National Spiritual

‘Let us recall His explicit and often repeated assurances that every Assembly elected in that rarefied

that one and all should submit to its decision unreservedly and with cheerfulness.’’ (February 23, 1924, to the Baha'is of America, published in Bahd’/ Administration, p. 65) (8)

“It would be impossible at this stage to . . . over ence... ."" (June 3, 1925, to the delegates and vieitors of the National Convention of the Baha'is of

spired him to uphold... ."" (May 27, 1927, to the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States anc Canada, published in Bahd'Y Administration, p. 136

ae “... 1 do not feel it to be in keeping with the spirit: of the Cause to impose any limitation upon the free dom of the believers to choose those of any race, na tionality or temperament who best combine the =

and concentrate their attention on the qualities anc requirements of office, without prejudice, passion or partiality. The Assembly should be representative of the choicest and most varied and capable elements in every Baha’i community... .”’ (in the handwriting of Shoghi Effendi, to « letter dated Augus: 11, 1933, written on behalf to an individual b-liever, published in Bahd’/ Institutions. Mew Dethi Baha’{ Publishing Trust, 1973, pp. 71-72) (il “If any discrimination is at all to be tolerated, should be a discrimination not against, but rather in favor of the minority, be it racial or otherwise every organized community enlisted under the banper of Bahdé'u’lldh should feel it to be its first and inobligation to nurture, encourage and safeguard every minority belonging to any faith, race class or nation within it. So great and vital is this principle that in such circumstances, as when an equal number of ballots have been cast in an election or where the qualifications for any office are bal nority, and this for no other reason except to stimulate and encourage it, and afford it an opportunity to further the interests of the community... .”" (De cember 25, 1938, published as The Advent of Divine Justice, p. 35) (12) �[Page 10]10 / The American Baha’ / March 1990

BANA’! NATIONAL REVIEW

March 1890 Mo. 127

fect, are nevertheless themselves imperfect. But this does not necessarily imply that their judgment is defective. . . . (November 15, 1935, to individual believers, published in “The Local Spiritual Assembly,” compiled by the Universal House of Justice. Wilmette: Baha’{ Publishing Trust, 1970, p.9) (14)

“A believer has the right to vote for himself during the election time, if he conscientiously feels the urge to do so. This does not necessarily imply that he is ambitious or selfish, for he might conscientiously believe that his qualifications entitle him to membership in a Baha’! administrative body, and he might be right. The essential, however, is that he should be sincere in his belief, and should act according to the dictates of his conscience. Moreover, membership in an Assembly or committee is a form of service, and should not be looked upon as a mark of inherent superiority, or a means for self-praise.”” (March 27, 1938, to an individual believer, published in Dawn of a New Day, pp. 200-201) (5)

“There is no objection in principle to an Assembly being re-elected, whether in toto or in part, provided the members are considered to be well-qualified for that post. It is individual merit that counts. Novelty or the mere act of renewal of elections are purely secondary considerations. Changes in Assembly membership should be welcome so far as they do not prejudice the quality of such membership. Once Assembly elections are over, the results should be conscientiously and unquestionably accepted by the entire body of the believers, not necessarily because they represent the voice of truth or the will of Bahdé’u'lldh, but for the supreme purpose of maintaining unity and harmony in the community... .’’ (July 10, 1939, to an individual believer, published in ‘‘Directives from the Guardian,’’ compiled by Gertrude Garrida. New Delhi; Baha'i Publishing Trust, 1973, p. 23) (16)

“In regard to your question about qualifications of delegates and Assembly members: the qualifications which he outlined are really applicable to anyone we elect to a Baha’{ office, whatever its nature. But these are only an indication, they do not mean people who don’t fulfill them cannot be elected to of hé’{ system. However, this is not the point. Election

with the character and abilities of those who are active in the community so that, when the time for an election comes, they will already have some idea of the people from among whom they must make their choice." (November 16, 1988, to the International

Teaching Center) (18)

‘The beloved Guardian has pointed out to us that should we follow the method of the politicians in our Baha'i electlons, misunderstandings and differences will arise, chaos and confusion will ensue, mischief will abound and the confirmations of God will be cut off from that Baha’i community.’

3. The non-political character of elections

From letters written by or on behalf of Shoghi Effendi

‘*Beware, beware lest the foul odor of the parties and peoples of foreign lands in the West, and their pernicious methods, such as intrigues, party politics and propaganda—practices which are abhorrent even in name—should ever reach the Bahd’{ community, exert any influence whatsoever upon the friends, and thus bring all spirituality to naught... .’’ (January 30, 1923, written by Shoghi Effendi to a Spiritual Assembly; translated from the Persian) (19)

““One’s vote should be kept confidential. It is not permissible to make any reference whatsoever to individual names. The friends must avoid the evil methods and detestable practices of the politicians. They must turn completely to God, and with a purity of motive, a freedom of spirit and a sanctity of heart, participate in the elections. . . ."’ (January 16, 1932, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to a Spiritual Assembly; translated from the Persian)

active souls.... Canvassing is abhorred....”

(April 9, 1932, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi

w (ocal Spica! Asacciny, Sapaieteteren Tei a )

“‘As you know very well, the method of Bahd’{ elections is at complete variance with the methods

individual believer) @3)

“|. . the Bahd’is, particularly prominent Bahé’is, should avoid doing anything which might create « wrong impression and give rise to accusations by uninformed Baha'is of electioneering.”” (April 15, 1986, to a Nationa! Spiritual Assembiy) ()

4. The absence of nominations

From letters written by or on behalf of Shoghi Efferdi

“I feel that reference to personalities before the election would give rise to misunderstanding and differences. What the friends should do is get thoroughly acquainted with one another, to exchange views, to mix freely and discuss among themselves the requirements and qualifications for such a membership without reference or application, however indirect. to particular individuals. We should refrain from influencing the opinion of others. . . ."” (May 14, 1927 written by Shoghi Effendi to the Spiritual Assembly of Akron, Ohio, published in the U.S. ‘Baha’! News Letter,’’ no. 18, June 1927, p. 9) Qs

“|. . the practice of nomination, so detrimental to the atmosphere of a silent and prayerful eiection, is viewed with mistrust inasmuch as it gives the right to the majority of a body that, in itself, under the pres ent circumstances, often constitutes a minority of all the elected delegates, to deny that God-given right of every elector to vote only in favor of those whom be is conscientiously convinced are the most worthy candidates... ."' (May 27, 1927, written by Shoghi Erfendi to the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States and Canada, published in Batd’) Acministration, p. 136) Qs)

“As to the practice of nomination in Bad’! cle-tions, this the Guardian firmly beliewes to be im funmate and direct all elections held by the Band's, othey of a local or national character and importance It is, indeed, the absence of such a practice that con stitutes the distinguishing feature and the marked superiority of the Bahé’{ electoral methods over those commonly associated with political partie: and factions. The practice of nomination, being thus contrary to the spirit of Bahd’{ administration, should >totally discarded by all the friends. For otherwise thfreedom of the Bahé’{ elector in choosing the members of any Bahd’! Assembly will be seriously endangered, leaving the way open for the domination of personalities. Not only that, but the mere act of somination leads eventually to the formation of parties— a thing which is totally alien to the spirit of the Cause.

“In addition to these serious dangers, the practice of nomination has the great

bent upon him to become an active and weil-informed member of the Bahd’{ community in which be lives. To be able to make a wise choice at the election time, it is necessary for him to be in close and continued contact with all of his fellow-believers, to keer in touch with all local activities, be they teaching, acministrative or otherwise, and to fully and whole heartedly participate in the affairs of the local as well as national committees and Assemblies in his coun�[Page 11]The American Bahé’! / March 1990 / 11

BANA’! NATIONAL REVIEW

March 1980 Mo. 127

Germany and Austria, vol. 1. Hofheim-Langenhain: Baha’ i-Veriag, 1982, pp. 67-68) (27)

“The elections, especially when annual, give the community @ good opportunity to remedy any defect or imperfection from which the Assembly may suffer &s & result of the actions of its members. Thus a safe method has been established whereby the quality of membership in Baha’i Assemblies can be continually raised’and improved. But, as already stated, the institution of the Spiritual Assembly should under no Circumstances be identified with, or be estimated merely through, the personal qualifications of the members that compose it.”” (November 15, 1935, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to individual belevers, published in ‘‘The Local Spiritual Assembly,”” pp. 9-10) (28) From @ memorandum written by the Universal House of Justice

“The fundamental difference between the system of candidature and the Bahd’{ system is that, in the former, individuals, or those who nominate them, decide that they should be placed in positions of authority and put themselves forward to be voted into it. In the Baha'i system it is the mass of the electorate which makes the decision. If an individual ostentatiously places himself in the public eye with the seeming purpose of getting people to vote for him, the members of the electorate regard this as self-conceit and are affronted by it; they learn to distinguish between someone who is well-known as an unintentional result of active public service and someone who makes an exhibition of himself merely to attract yotes."’ (November 16, 1988, to the International Teaching Center) (29)

“These local Spiritual Assemblies will have to be elected directly by the friends, and every declared believer of 21 years and above, far from standing aloof and assuming an indifferent or independent attitude, it his sacred duty to take part, conscidiligently, in the election, the consoliand the efficient working of his own local As.’’ (March 12, 1923, to the Bahd'{s of the Japan and Australasia, published in Bahd’/ dministration, p. 39) (30) “It would also appear to me unobjectionable to enable and even to require in the last resort such delegates as cannot possibly undertake the journcy to the seat of the Bahé’{ Convention to send their votes. . . . It should, however, be made clear to every elected delegate—who should be continually reminded—that it is a sacred responsibility and admittedly preferable to attend if possible in person the sessions of the Convention, to take an active part in all its proceedings, and to acquaint his fellow-workers on his return with the accomplishments, the decisions, and the aspirations of the assembled representatives of the American believers.’’ (October 24, 1925, to the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States and Canada, published in Bahd’ Administration, pp. 91-92) 1)

“I feel I must reaffirm the vital importance and necessity of the right of voting—a sacred responsibility of which no adult recognized believer should be . . . This distinguishing right which the bepossesses however does not carry with it nor it imply an obligation to cast his vote, if he feels the circumstances under which he lives do not ustify or allow him to exercise that right intelligently end with understanding. This is a matter which should be left to the individual to decide for himself to his own conscience and discretion... ."’

(in the handwriting of Shoghi Effendi, appended to a letter dated April 28, 1935, written on his behalf to

i i

i

a v

yeni

Bahd’ts af North America 1932-1946. Wilmette: Ba ha’{ Publishing Committee, 1947, pp. 3-4) (32)

From communications written by or on behalf of the Universal House af Justice

“In the matter of attendance of delegates at Conventions, the desirability of the friends themselves being self-supporting should be pointed out by the National Assembly. If a delegate cannot pay his own expenses in attending the Convention, the local Assembly or the believers in the electoral unit from which the delegate comes should be encouraged by the National Assembly to defray such expenses, so that only when funds are unavailable from those sources, the National Assembly is approached to consider offering financial assistance. . . .’’ (From a letter dated February 9, 1967, written by the Universal House of Justice to all National Spiritual Assem ‘There Is no minimum number of ballots required for an election to be considered valid, elther In the case of a local Spiritual Assembly or of delegates to the National Convention. Nevertheless, It Is desirable that every eligible voter take part, and your Assembly should encourage all believers to do so....’

blies, published in Lights of Guidance: A Bahd’/ Reference File, compiled by Helen Hornby. New Delhi: Baha’i Publishing Trust, 1983, p. 143) (33)

“There is no minimum of ballots required for an election to be considered valid, either in the case of a local Spiritual Assembly or of delegates to the National Convention. Nevertheless, it is desirable that every eligible voter take part, and your Assembly should encourage all believers to do so. ” (From a letter dated July 10, 1980, written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice to a National Spiritual Assembly) (34)

“*In general, if a delegate to the National Convention is unable to pay his own travel expenses, the believers from the electoral unit from which the delegate comes should be encouraged by the National Spiritual Assembly to defray such expenses. If funds

are unavailable from this source, the National Spiritual Assembly may be approached to consider offer ing financial assistance. The National Assembly is not under obligation to do so. It may choose to pay only a portion of the travel expenses of 2 delegate

such as the return portion of the transportation Nl ae

‘The Counselors should not hesitate to draw the attention of the National Spiritual Assembly to the need to foster good attendance of delegates at the National Convention, and to offer advice on the merits of provision of financial assistance to delegates. In addition, the Counselors should emphasize to the community, through the Auxiliary Board members and their assistants, the value of believers in cach unit area providing financial help to the delegate they have elected to participate in the deliberations of the National Convention. The vital responsibility of each delegate to cast his ballot by mail, if he is unabie + attend in person, should also be emphasized." (From a@ memorandum dated November 14, 1988, written by the Universal House of Justice to the International Teaching Center) Gs 6. The role of the National Spiritual Assembly From letters written by or on behalf af Shoghi Effendi

“*The seating of delegates to the Convention, i.the right to decide upon the validity of the credentials of the delegates at a given Convention is vested in the outgoing National Assembly, and the right to decide who has the voting privilege is also ultimately placed in the hands of the National Spiritual Assembly (January 29, 1925, written by Shoghi Effendi to the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States and Canada, published in Bahd’/ Administration, p. ®)

(36

• • He considers that the National Spiritual Assembly has every right to examine the ballots if there is

some doubt as to the election having been properly conducted. By ‘preservation’ of the ballots is meant that they are preserved in the national files."’ (March 14, 1947, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to the National Spiritual Assembly of Australia and New Zealand, published in Letters from the Guardian to Australia and New Zealand, 1923-1957. Sydney: National Spiritual Assembly of Australia, 1970, p. 66

=

TT, Se TT ee eT EE TS

Pictured on the front steps of the Seat of the Univer sal House of Justice on Mount Carmel in Haifa, Is rael, are members of the security staff at the Bahd't World Center. With them (front row fourth from right) is ‘Alf Nakhjdvdnt, a member of the Universal House of Justice. The chief responsibility of the Security Department is to serve the House of Justice by protecting and preserving the spiritual and administrative centers of the Faith in Haifa and ‘Akkd. In this photograph, which was taken in October 1989,

are security guards and members of the administra ~~

tive staff (in dark suits). Security personnel include many young Bahd’is who have come fo the World Center from such faraway places as Cameroon, Sweden, Germany, Botswana, France, Australia, Zaire New Zealand, Austria, Switceriand, England, Guyana and the United States. Uf you are considering service at the World Center and would like more infor mation about what positions are eveilable and how you may apply, write to the Depertment of Human Resources, Bahd National Center, Wilmette, [1 60091, or phone 708-869-9039 �[Page 12]12 /- The American Baha'i / March:1990

BIC hosts meeting in N.Y. to discuss women’s issues

UNITED NATIONS

Seven representatives of various Baha’i institutions and agencies met January 12 at the New York City office of the Baha'i International Community (BIC) to discuss issues and activities related to women.

Claire Friedland, president of the National Council of Women of the U.S. (NCW), joined the group at lunch time to consult on ways in which Baha’is might be of service to the Council which comprises 33 national women’s organizations, one of which is the Baha’{ National Committee on Women.

Present at the day-long meeting were Juana Conrad, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly; Katharine Bigelow of the National Assembly Office of External Affairs; Fafar Guillebeaux and Jan Smith, Bahd’{ National Committee on Women; Nora El-Tobgy. Baha’{ International Office of Public Information; Mary Power, representative to the UN for the BIC (specializing in women’s issues); and Shirley Lee, representative to the UN for the Baha’{s of the United States.

Reports were presented on an extensive array of programs, activities and materials that have been implemented or are being prepared for community use. The representatives of the National Committee on Women reported that

Bahéa’fe in Atlanta work hard to support causes of world peace, race harmony

Baha'is in the Atlanta, Georgia, area continue working hard to maintain a visible presence among those who appreciate the need for world peace and racial] harmony.

On December 31, C.T. Vivian, a nationally known speaker on race relations, attended a ‘“‘Kwanza’’ (AfroAmerican celebration of culture and diversity) at Spelman College.

Two of the organizers of the event were Baha’{s, as were the majority of those in the audience.

On January 4, two Bahd’{s attended a gala kick-off celebration of the Atlanta “‘World of Difference’’ program sponsored by the Anti-Defamation League of B’nai B’rith.

This is a community-wide effort to reduce ethnic, racial and religious prejudice through a celebration of the diversity in American society.

professional materials are being produced for workshops on issues including ‘“The Price Men Pay for Inequality’; ‘‘Internalized Oppression—Giving Up Our Negative Notions of Ourselves’’; ‘‘Racism-Sexism’’; ‘Spiritual Transformation—Examining the Extent of Our Damage from the Old World Order,’’ and others.

Guest editorials on similar topics will be submitted to The American Bahd't.

Mrs. Conrad and Ms. Bigelow briefed the group on a preparatory meeting for the upcoming Sino-American Conference on Women’s Issues to be held June 25-28 in Beijing, China. The conference is sponsored by Global Interactions Inc. and the All-China Women’s Committee.

It is hoped that there will be about 750 participants from the U.S. and an equal number from China. The Faith is represented on the steering committee, several Baha’{s will present papers at the conference, and Bahd’{s have also been called upon to chair workshops and provide other leadership skills.

The U.S. State Department recently held a meeting with representatives of women’s organizations as a prelude to the meeting of the UN Commission on the Status of Women.

Mrs. Power and Ms. Bigelow attended the meeting, at which it was announced that the U.S. will introduce three resolutions aimed at including more women in pre-Commission consultations.

The Baha’{ representatives provided the State Department with BIC statements on women’s issues and information about the work of the BIC and other non-governmental organizations on the ‘Advocates for African Food Security: Lessening the Burden for Women.”’

The Advocates project, in which there is major involvement by the BIC, was described in detail. Its aim is to focus attention on the contributions of women in Africa as the major providers of food for family sustenance. The Beha’{ International Community's Office of Public Information is developing a pamphlet describing the work of

the Advocates. Consultation with Ms. Friedland,

the president of the NCW, was centered on setting a new focus, enhancing the role of the Council in social issues, celebrating the diversity of membership, and dealing with the issue of racism.

It was noted that Baha'is can cosponsor related events with other Council organizations on the national and local levels.

Contacting news media, prominent persons

The National Spiritual Assembly would like to remind individual Baha’{s and local Spiritual Assemblies that they should contact the National SpirKual Assembly at its office in Washington, D.C., before they write letters

regarding the Faith to national publications (magazines, newspapers, book publishers) or to national electronic media (TV, radio networks). Contact

with national media and with nationally prominent people has been under the guidance and direction of the National Spiritual Assembly for several decades. A perception of urgency or timeliness by an individual Baha’t is not sufficient justification to ignore this long-standing policy. Such communication is not merely a matter of reviewing letters from individual Baha’{s, but coordinating Bahd’{ relations with news media and prominent people.

Pictured at a meeting on women’s issues January 12 at the Bahd’( International Community’s office in New York City are (left to right) Shirley Lee, UN representative, Bahd’ts of the United States; Juana Conrad, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly; Fafar Guillebeaux, Bahd’i National

The quality and extent of the activities under way was impressive. It was

Committee on Women; Clisire Friecland, president, National Council of Women; Jan Smith, Bahd’! Netionai Committee on Women; Katharine Bigelow, National Spiritual Assembly Oyfice of External Affairs; and Mary Power, representative, Bahd’! Internotional Community.

decided to hold a similar meeting in August.

Problem of illiteracy especially grave among world’s developing countries

During the past two months articles in The American Bahd’/ have introduced the United Nations International Literacy Year (ILY), encouraged the Baha’{ community to lend its support to this worthwhile endeavor, and stressed the importance placed by the Universal House of Justice on eliminating illiteracy from the Baha’{ community to ensure access to the Creative Word.

Plans for ILY were formally announced this month at press conferences in 20 cities by the UN’s International Task Force on Literacy (ITFL), one of whose members is the Baha’{ International Community (BIC).

When assessing the impact of illiteracy on a global scale, perhaps the first question to ask is, How serious is the problem?

© The UN estimates that there are nearly one billion adult illiterates (15 years of age or older) in the world, which is more than one-quarter of the total population.

© Nearly 98 percent of the world’s illiterates live in developing countries—a testament to the fact that illiteracy is both a cause and a consequence of poverty and under-development in the Third World.

© Asia has nearly 700 million illiterates, Africa nearly 170 million, and Latin America and the Caribbean about 45 million.

© In Africa, about 54 percent of the total population is considered illiterate.

© Globally, almost 35 percent of all female adults are illiterate, and about 20.5 percent of male adults.

In the least developed countries, two-thirds of the adults are illiterate. Some are confronting and resolving the problem, while in others—where nearly 90 percent of adults remain illiterate—the situation seems almost en trenched.

Illiteracy is clearly 2 problem of global dimensions which, directly or indirectly, affects and concerns all nations and peoples of the watid.

Education would seem the obvious solution; however, there are presently more than 100 million children age: 6-11 in developing countries who arc not enrolled in school.

standards are uneven and drop-out rates tend to be quite high.

The International Literacy Year initiative was launched with the premise that the eradication of illiteracy calls for worldwide cooperation, and that the process of education can make an indispensable contribution to the achievement of social progress, mutual understanding and cooperation among nations.

As the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) states in a recent bookiet, Literacy, Human Rights and Peace, “If we arc to avoid war, we must learn to live in peace, and learn to understand one another.

“*. . .since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defenses of peace must be conOf course, literacy—the ability not only to read but to understand what one has read—is an essential part of that equation, and Bahd‘is can and should play an ever-widening role in worldwide efforts to eradicate illiter acy.

Speaking of ILY, the Universal House of Justice wrote (July 10, 1989): “. . Wwe commend the purpose of this special year to the attention of the entire Baha'i work." �[Page 13]The American Bahé’i / March 1990 / 13

King Day

from page 3

young Baha’is attended a College and University Conference on Non-Violence.

In all, the Baha’{ community provided outstanding support for King Week events with more than 150 of the friends directly involved in tasks to support the many activities.

The King Center staff recognized the dedication and spirit brought by the Baha'is and were delighted with the participation of the American Indians, which would not have been possible without the sponsorship of the Baha'i community.

Atlanta’s celebration of Dr. King’s birthday was but one of a number of such events throughout the country in which Bahd’{is were involved. For instance:

© In Los Angeles, more than onethird of those marching in the King Day parade were Bahd’{s wearing T-shirts with Baha’{ slogans and carrying banners proclaiming the oneness of mankind.

• In Seattle, Washington, about 400

people, mostly students and faculty, attended a Bahd’{-sponsored public meeting at the University of Washington. The speaker was Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh, the National Assembly secretary for External Affairs, who traced the history of the civil rights movement from a Baha’{ perspective based on his observations since arriving in the U.S. as @ young college student.

• In Eugene, Oregon, Baha'is joined

forces with the NAACP to plan and carry out a number of programs honoring Dr. King including a public trib Prayer breakfast In Washington honors Dr. King’s memory

On January 15, about 250 guests from around the world gathered in Washington, D.C., to remember the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the first Ecumenical Prayer Breakfast hosted by the Religious Involvement Committee of the Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Holiday Commission.

Carole Miller, a Baha’{ from Atlanta, Georgia, who serves as co-chairman of the Religious Involvement Committee, presided over the event with Bishop H.H. Brookins, presiding prelate of the Second Episcopal District African Methodist Episcopal Church.

As a part of the program Dr. Robert C. Henderson, secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly, recalled ‘Abdu’l-Bahd’s address in 1912 to the fourth annual Convention of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and recited the “Prayer for America’’ revealed by the Master.

Other speakers were M. Dhammasiri, president of the Buddhist Vihara Society; Ronald H. Brown, chairman of the Democratic National Committee; His Excellency Stanislaus Chigwedere, ambassador of Zimbabwe; and the Rev. Jesse Jackson, founder and national president of the Rainbow Coalition.

ute at the City Council chambers; a Human Rights Fair; and a public meeting whose keynote speaker before an audience of more than 4,000 was Dr. King’s daughter, Yolanda.

© In Baston, Baha'is co-sponsored the Harvard-Radcliffe United Ministry’s annual Martin Luther King Jr. service at Memorial Church, and Baha’{s took part in many other commemorations of the holiday.

© In Albuquerque, New Mexico, Baha’is co-sponsored a birthday tribute to Dr. King that drew an audience of more than 300, about 60 of whom were Bahd’{s. Also sponsoring was the NAACP'’s College Division at the University of New Mexico. The keynote speaker was Harold Gibson, an African-American Baha’{ from Espanola.

° In Glenwood Springs, Colorado, the three-member Baha’i Group sponsored the community’s King Day activities which included a potluck supper and a walk to a local cemetery to honor early black settlers who played an important role in Glenwood Springs some 100 years ago. The events received widespread media coverage.

© In Conway, South Carolina, the local Spiritual Assembly took the lead when local churches decided not to plan an observance of Dr. King’s birthday, presenting a public program that drew an audience of more than 200, was covered by four television stations and broadcast live on WLGI Radio Baha’i.

° In New Orleans, 25 Baha’is from six communities took part in the annual King Day parade which ended with a rally at a local gymnasium.

• In Speedway, Indiana, the Baha’is

sponsored an observance that included songs, film footage of Dr. King’s life including the march on Washington, D.C., and his famous ‘Il have a dream"’ speech, and a discussion of various aspects of race prejudice and the need for unity.

• In Greenfield, Massachusetts, Baha’{s co-sponsored ‘‘The Dream Continues,’’ a public Martin Luther King

Day observance at a local Unitarian church. About 50 people attended.

© In Redding, California, Baha’is joined a number of interested groups to plan the King Day observance and provided the keynote speaker, Roger Hogan. Also on the program, which drew an audience of about 150, was a jazz dance by two Baha’{ youth, Danielle Hogan and Joyanna Kessler.

In Pendleton, Oregon, Baha’is co Task force to eddrees

problem of liliteracy

To support the United Nations International Year of Literacy 1990 (ILY), the National Spiritual Assembly recently appointed a special

Task Force on Literacy (see article on ILY on page 12).

The task force is in the process of organizing itself and will make a statement In The American Bahd'{ once this has been completed.

Should the friends receive or come across any questionable material, or material that may have been written by Covenant-breakers, they should contact their local Spiritual Assembly or Auxiliary Board member for advice, or forward the material to the National Spiritual Assembly.

Above: Children enjoy the King Day program in Portland, Maine. Below:

sponsored the King Day observance with the local chapter of the Fellowship of Reconciliation. The keynote speaker was Leonard Bell, a member of the Spiritual Assembly of Portland.

° In Tulsa, Oklahoma, 30 Baha'is from several communities marched in

the city’s third annual King Day parade +

under the auspices of the Spiritual Assembly of Tulsa. The Baha’{ float, one of more than 200 parade entries, was planned by the Baha’{ Inter-Community Media Committee with the theme ‘‘The Dream Lives: Education Is the Key.”’

¢ In Portland, Maine, Baha’is from

throughout the state were involved in a number of activities commemorating

Convention seating taken

As this issue of The American Bahd'/ went to press, the National Spiritual Assembly announced that seating for the 8ist Bahdé’{ National Convention was no longer available.

The Convention will be held April 26-29 at the Bahd'{ House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois.

border has become very grave.

The Bethlehem Church choir performs in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Dr. King’s birthday including a program at the A.M.E. Zion Church, « breakfast meeting attended by some 600 people, a children’s program organized by the Bahd’is of Greater Portland, and an awards and scholar ship program

Employment Opportunities on Indian Reservations

Numerous employment opportuniltic exist on or near Indian Reserv | throughout the United States | the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Indian Health Service have publicized | job listings. Mature Baha'is could be | of service as homefront pioneers, par| ticularly those who could respond the crisis in medical care on Reservations. For more information contact: National Teaching Committee American Indian Desk Bah4’{ National Center Wilmette, IL 60091

Phone: 708/869-9039 ext 361

Thalland requests special prayers for Baha'i refugees

The National Spiritual Assembly of Thailand recently informed the U.S Bahd’{ Refugee Office (USBRO) that the situation of the several hundred Khmer (Cambodian) Baha'i refugees in camps on the Thai-Cambodian

The National Assembly of Thailand asks that the ‘“Tablet of Ahmad”’ be read each night for the protection and well-being of these Baha’! refugees �[Page 14]14 / The American Bahai / March 1990

CLASSIFIEDS

Classified notices in The American Baha’i are published free of charge as a service to the Bahd’{ 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. s

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

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

THE BOSCH Bahé’! School is accepting applications for summer employment. Positions available include children’s teachers, maintenance assistants, kitchen helpers and recreation director. Positions are from mid-June through August; room and board are provided with a email stipend. Those interested in applying are asked to send « Brief resumé to the administrator, Bosch Baha’! School, $00 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 9500).

FAMILY physicians urgently needed with nurses, midwives and other medical personne! to live and serve on the Navajo Reservation near the Native American Bahd'{ Institute and the Hopi Reservation. Ganado, Arizona, has an active Bahai community and offers a pleasing lifestyle. For information, write to Dr. Hannah Rishel,

Ganado, AZ 86505, or phone 602-755M32.

PIONEERING (HOMEFRONT)

HOMEFRONT piocosers are needed to support an active Assembly in Cumberland County, North Carolina. The Assembly, which has sponsored socio-economic projects, district-wide deepenings, proclamation and teaching events, needs at least two pioncers to replace several Baha‘is who have moved out of the area. Jobs are available in most ficids. For more information, write to the Bahd'is of Cumberland County,

_ Fayetteville, NC 28303, or phone 919-867-2421.

TEMPLE, Texas, needs homefront pioncers, preferably a family or couple, one of whom does pot work fulltime and would be able to visit ciderly and home-bound believers. Temple (pop. 80,000) is one-half hour from Fort Hood (Kilieen), less than two hours from Austin, and less than three hours from Dallas/Fort Worth. Excellent public schools, first-rate community

college, site of a medical school and VA hospital; job opportunities primarily in the fields of medicine and education. Enrolled Baha'is consist of about 85 mass-taught believers, mostly black, some Hispanic, about half of whom are adults, the rest children. For more information, phone Sandra Creech, 817-773-9961, ext. 325 (office), or 817-657-9164 (home).

HOMEFRONT pioocers are needed in picturesque Lebanon, New Hampshire, which is striving to maintain its Assembly status. Lebanon, on the New Hampshire- Vermont border, is a hub of education, business and recreation. Employment opportunities abound in manufacturing, education and health care. Opportunities to teach the Faith are, in a word, unlimited. The community needs at least three Bahd'(s by Ridvan to secure its Assembly. Come and help us win some important goals for Baha’u"ll4h. For more detailed information, please contact Tim and Sue Brewer, 603-448-4586, or Anne Bouchard, 603-448-4586.

PIONEERING (OVERSEAS)

JOBS available overseas: Americas: Honduras—kindergarten and elementary school teachas. Asta: Thailend—Montessori pre-school teacher. Australasia: Marshall Islands—general practice physician to serve as medical coordinator for a managed health-care program. MultiRegional: chief school administrators, regional project managers, internal auditor, engineers and technicians. USAID Intern Program: accountant, administrative management officer, agriculture/rural development/natural resources officer, contract/commodity management officer, education/human resources development officer, health/population/nutrition officer, bousing/urban development officer, program economist, private enterprise officer, program officer, project development officer. For more information about any of these positions, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Baha’! National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 708-869-9099

ARCHIVES

1948), Charles Edsall (died Montclair, NJ, 1937), Leonora Edsall (died Hamburg, NJ, 1966). Anyone knowing family members or relatives who might have these letters from the Guardian is asked to contact the National Bahd’{ Archives, Baha'i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or to phone 708-869-9039.

WANTED

THE BOSCH Bahd’i School's Youth Academy is seeking contributions of two personal computers, one Apple McIntosh and one IBM compatible, to be used by students attending the Academy to prepare their research and class papers. Also, the school is seeking contributions of extra copies of The Advent of Divine Justice to

Employment opportunities

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 check the position(s) in which you are interested and return this form to the Department of Human Resources, Bahd’{ National Cen ter, Wilmette, IL 60091.

— Baha'i Publishing Trust: associate editor; shipping and receiving clerks (2) — Bosch School: morning cook, full time (September-June); maintenance assistant, full-time

— Department of Human Resources: personnel secretary/receptionist

— Native American Baha’! Institute: caretaker/host

— National Teaching Committee Office: secretary to the NTC secretary; youth activities coordinator

— Office of External Affairs, Washington, D.C.: national liaison to nongovernmental organizations (please do not call the Washington office for information)

— Office of the Secretary: administrative aide/District Convention coordinator

— Office of the Treasurer: assistant controller; administrative assistant

— Persian/American Affairs Office: translator (must be fluent in Persian and English)

— U.S. Bahd'{ Refugee Office: refugee program assistant

Name Address

use in the Youth Academy. We would like to etablish a permanent set of 25 copies for the pro YOUTH: summer teaching trip to Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, July 25-August 20, for youth ages 16-20 with at least some knowledge of Spanish. Cost: $400 per person plus air fare. Group will be limited to 12. Participants will attend the Mayan Indian Bahd’{ Institute, teach in cities

This bulletin board was placed last December in the children's section of

the local public library by the Bahd*! Group of DeLand, Florida.

Baha'is In DeLand, Florida, prociaim the Cause via library bulletin board, peace-related events

In December, the Bahdé’{ Group of DeLand, Florida, placed a large bulletin board in the children’s section of the local public library.

The board featured children of various races wearing T-shirts, each of which displayed a message of peace, and included a tag indicating that the board was created by the Baha'is of DeLand. The board was well-received by the children’s librarian and by library patrons.

Next, a member of the Bah4’{ community offered to help on a committee organizing the fourth annual Peace Vigil sponsored by the First Christian Church in DeLand. Baha'is have taken part in that event since its inception, both as audience and as speakers.

Because Bahd’{s from all over central Florida came to support this year’s vigil, when the program hostess asked each religious community to identify itself by a show of hands, the 21 Baha’{s present outnumbered every other group including the host church.

On the program, nine-year-old Shezel Rohani read a Bahd'{ prayer, Joe Killeen participated in a reading arranged by the church, Tony Killeen sang a prayer for unity, and Gail Radley presented a deluxe copy of the peace statement to the organizers on behalf of the Baha’{ community.

In January, three Baha'is served on a committee that planned the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration, the largest held to date in Deland with some 350 people attending a breakfast program at Stetson University.

75 Bahé’is of all ages attend Winter Schoo! at Louls Gregory institute

On December 29-31, 75 adults, youth and children attended 2 Bahé'! Winter School at the Louis Gregory Bahé'{ Institute near Hemingway, South Carolina.

The adult session, whose theme was “Individual Rights and Freedoms,” focused on the letter of December 29, 1988, from the Universal House of Justice to the followers of Bahd'u’lléb in the U.S.

Classes for youth and chikdren were held in conjunction with the adult classes. All talks and workshops were taped for broadcast on WLGI Radio Baha'i.

On January 14-16, the Gregory Institute hosted 14 young people and svpervisors preparing for a year or more of service to the Faith.

The sessions were sponsored by the National Teaching Committee's Baha) Youth Service Corps.

For traveling teachers

Baha'is who are interested in traveling teaching in Mexico, please contact: Netional Teaching Comumittes, oo Bada) National Center, Wilmette, IL @09) Phone 312-869-9099

�[Page 15]The American Suhé@*] / March 1990 /

March-April Brilliant Star examines fascinating topic of ‘lost and found’

Hold onto your hats! The MarchApril issue of Brilliant Star magazine will whisk you away as it examines the topic of lost and found.

Losing and finding are a part of life. The topic is presented to children in this issue through poetry by Susan Engic, articles by Deborah Bley, and fiction by Richard Eldridge, Sa’di and R.

New York ‘Rap on Racism’ draws 100 to city Center

“Rap on Racism: Youth Speak Out”’ was the theme of a public meeting last December 10 at the Baha'i Center in New York City.

About 100 people attended the event, which was planned by the Baha’{ community’s Sunday Public Meeting Committee.

The program included talks by moderator Hillary Chapman and Lisa Jones, a member of the Connecticut Baha’i Youth Workshop; several dance numbers by the Workshop; a ‘‘rap”’ relating Baha'i principles; and a threemember panel of youth who discussed various facets of racism and the Baha’{ concept of one human family.

of these elections. . .

lievers."”

\\

Pictured are some of the 65 young Bahd'ts and one non-Bahd'( guest who attended the second annual Thanksgiving Youth Retreat at the Golden Cross Ranch in New Caney, Texas, co-sponsored by the District Teaching Committee of East Texas No. 2 and the Regional Youth Committee. The 110

New compilation on Baha’i elections appears in Baha'i National Review, available as booklet

The Sanctity and Nature of Bahd’( Elections, a new compilation prepared by the Research Department at the Bahd’{ World Center, appears in this month's Bahd’f National Review, pp. 9-11. It becomes available this month as a booklet for $1.95 from the Baha’{ Distribution Service.

The Universal House of Justice reféts to Bahd'/ Elections as a tool *‘to increase the understanding of the believers regarding the nature and sanctity .”" It will also help Baha'is and Baha’{ institutions prepare themselves for “the expected rapid increase in the number of be Although many of the quotations included in Bahd’/ Elections are found in other sources, the Universal House of Justice provided this timely compilation to help the friends deepen on this topic that is so vital to the health of the community. This new publication addresses many concerns, such as the spirit of unity during elections, the respect and honor due minorities, and the non-political character of elections.

National and local Spiritual Assemblies, Counselors, Auxiliary Board members and their assistants, and ‘‘the rank and file of believers’’ are encouraged to study Bahd’i Elections and to begin ‘‘careful and sustained planning’’ for an ‘‘ongoing program for the deepening of the friends in the fundamentals of Baha’{ administration.’’

Gregory Shaw.

Our new feature, ‘‘What's Good Out There!’’ shares ‘‘finds’’ that kids themselves have made of good movies, songs and video games that don’t compromise Baha’ principles. We invite other children to share their ‘‘finds’’ with us.

You'll also find in this issue a delightful photo essay of Naw-Ruz among Vietnamese and Khmer Baha’ {s and one about a Ridvan tree!

“‘Make a Memory Tape,”’ an idea by Peggy Goding, is a wonderful activity that children can do to help themselves or others learn the sacred verses by heart.

And of course, you'll find our usual features—music, activities, Book Nook, Profile, and Parents’ Page all topped with an exquisite cover by Terri Schultz.

If you’re not already finding Brilfiant Star in your mailbox every other month, you can subscribe for $12 (six issues). Simply send a check or money order to Subscriber Service, Baha'i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

Don’t lose out—find Brilliant Star!

acre ranch was perfect for fellowship and learning, with classes held on ‘Sexism,’ ‘Racism,’ ‘The Role of Youth in World Peace,’ ‘The Kitdb-i-[gdn,’ and ‘What It Means to Be a Bahd'(.’ Also on the program were dawn prayers, games, dancing and a talent show.

As a follow-up to a recent program on world peace, the Bahd’is of Rocky River, Ohio, presented a unique piece of ceramic art to the Cowan Pottery Museum at the Rocky River Public Library. The museum displays the works of artists who were instrumental in de

veloping art forms and glazes whict have never been reproduced. Pictures

(left to right) are Bahd'G Margere Greene and Richard Cunningham, as

“The shining spark of truth cometh Sorth only after the clash of differing opinions. "'— ‘Abdu'l-Bahd

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

Letters should be as brief as possible (a 250-word maximum is suggested) and are subject to editing for length and style. Please address all letters to the Editor, The American Bahd't, Baha’{ National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

Esperanto a ‘valuable tool’

To the Editor:

On leaving the Baha'i World Center in Haifa, I began a teaching trip through the Eastern bloc countries, the Soviet Union and China. The most valuable tool | carried was a knowledge of Esperanto.

As a member of the World Esperanto Association, | was able to contact delegates in all the cities | visited and receive help in spreading the Faith.

I couldn't have asked for more gracious hosts or more good-hearted people. The Esperantists already believe in one of the basic principles of the Faith; I was able to find many people who wanted to talk about religion, especially the Baha‘{ Faith.

This is not a discussion of what the definitive international language might be. Esperanto is alive and well now. | live now, and need a useful language for communicating on a worldwide basis

As a traveling teacher, its value was clearly demonstrated for me. In the re

sistant library director Petre Be castro; and museum curefor Victors Peltz

pons where | traveled | found Engiix to be of little use, and GaGr. nave time to learn the native tonguct

hai, China sentations on With only two language talk about the Faith to at icast | OX people

You can’t imagine the joy by Bahdé’u’ll4h, o

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nv

Reunion with natura! parents

To the Editor It was feit that the information givez below might be heipf appeared in a daily newspaper Northampton, Massa When adopted c ng tO Marry and must secure on from biologica! parents, they counter diff t natural parents bureau mentioned much of the probi

with International So Registry, P.O. Box 231 NV 89702. Adopted register, and when they bex

age, if both parties are regis and want to find each other, a match made.”" M.R. Garis, secreter Spuritual Assemdx 4 mhersi, Massachusets

Thank you, Milwaukee To the Editor

I would like to applaud the efforts o the Spiritual Assembly of Milwaukee Wisconsin, for its exceptional program celebrating Work Religion Day

Their observance, which was ded cated to the memory of Dr. Martin Le ther King Jr., and endorsed Dy the Mi

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Baha'i World Center, Archives Office P.0. Box 155 31001 Haifa, ISRAEL. �[Page 18]18 / The American Baha'i / March 1990

News In brief

Murfreesboro’s human rights award given to founder of city’s Food Bank

On December 12 the Baha’{s of Murfreesboro and Rutherford County, Tennessee, presented their Human Rights Day Award to Josephine Call, founder of the Murfreesboro Food Bank.

Mrs. Call was given a plaque and prayer book in recognition of her service to the Murfreesboro community.

She founded the Food Bank in 1976, following her retirement as a nurse, and was its director until forced by a recent illness to step down after having found and trained a successor.

In 1987, in a room donated by the Red Cross, Community Helpers was begun as a further extension of the Food Bank offering more comprehensive human services to people in the

Murfreesboro area. oO

To foster the spirit of unity that can lead to entry by troops, Baha’ {s in western Washington state have begun an effort to make available to every Baha’{ in the area the video ‘‘The Seat of

God's Throne.”’

A committee sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Kitsap County South is circulating copies of the video and listing those who have seen it. To help assure universal participation, committee members and a group of young Baha'is from across the state have offered to take the video anywhere in the state and show it to any size audience.

In a separate but related effort, several of the friends have pledged to make a donation to the Arc for every Baha’{, youth and children included, who views the video by Ridvan.

The Spiritual Assembly of Houston, Texas, sponsored a Thanksgiving dinner for the homeless and needy last November at the Baha’i Center in Houston.

A large sign outside the Center announced the free dinner, and flyers were distributed in the surrounding neighborhoods.

As a result, Bahd'{s from Houston

National Spiritual Assembly seeks resumés

The National Spiritual Assembly would appreciate receiving resumés from Baha’{ professionals working in the fields of child development, children's education, child advocacy, juvenile rights, and children’s health as a

resource for the National Assembly to call upon when professional representation on behalf of the Baha’{ community is required at conferences, for the submission of papers, articles and the like. Please address correspondence to: National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahd’is of the United States, Office of External Affairs, 1606 New Hampshire Avenue N.W.,

Washington, DC 20009.

Baha’i Subscriber Service plans to distribute Australla’s popular Herald of South magazine

Baha'i Subscriber Service is pleased to announce that it soon will begin to distribute Herald of the South, a general-interest Baha’{ magazine produced quarterly by the National Spiritual Assemblies of Australia and New Zealand.

Subscriber Service will accept new subscriptions and process renewals for Herald of the South beginning with the April 1990 issue.

Herald of the South examines history and art, nature and science, and peoples and places from the perspective of Baha’ teachings, laws and principles. Past issues have profiled Baha’{ scholars, educators, architects and feminists, and featured the works of such artists as Reginald Turvey, Marion Jack, Bernard Leach, Fritz Mann and David Villasefior.

Readers enjoy the magazine’s lovely color photography and appreciate the distinctive view of the world from

“down under.”’

With the addition of Herald of the South, Subscriber Service now distributes magazines and newsletters for readers of many ages, sensibilities and interests, whether Bahd’{s or not, including Bahd’i News, World Order magazine, Brilliant Star children's magazine, U.S. Bahd’( Report and The American Bahd't.

Baha’{ magazines and newsletters promote and encourage deepening, teaching, consolidation and education—all from the perspective of the coming World Order and the promised Most Great Peace.

For extra copies of subscription forms, and more information and ideas about how you can use these publications in your plans and activities, please write to Subscriber Service, Baha’{ National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 708-869-9039 (Fax 708-869-0247).

, i. oe ee ce

PERIODICAL ONE YEAR

Bahd’i News $12.00

World Order $10.00

Brilliant Star $12.00

U.S. Bahd’( Report $10.00 $24.00

The American Bahd'{ $15.00 (foreign only)

Foreign prices available upon request. Please make check payable to: Bah4’{ Subscriber Service.

ns cs ce cece ec ee ee ee ee

| | | | | Herald of the South | | | |

TWO YEARS FREQUENCY |

$20.00 12 x year $18.00 4 x year | $20.00 6 X year $18.00 4 x year $43.00 4 x year $28.00 12 x year

I 1 ! I l ! I J

Dr. Amin Banani, professor of Persian and history at the University of California at Los Angeles, and an expert on Middle Eastern affairs, discusses the question ‘Can Peace Come to the Middle East?’ during a public meeting

and nearby communities served about 200-250 meals at the Center and in the neighborhoods. Included were turkey, a variety of other dishes, fruits and desserts.

The response of those sharing the dinners was enthusiastic and appreciative. When they were asked, the Baha’is gave information about the Faith.

The three-year involvement of the Baha’{ community of Oyster Bay, New York, on the Interreligious & Human Needs Council of Northeast Nassau County led first to the establishment of a Committee on Prejudice and Rela

last October 29 at the Nine Oaks Bohd'i School in Arroyo Grande. A concert by violinist Peter Bresier and pianist Ina Davenport preceded Dr. Banari’s talk.

tionships and then to the drafting by the committee of a Statement of Purpose and Intent, read publicly and signed last November at an interreligious Thanksgiving Day service.

In spite of their differing beliefs, the statement says, committee members are ‘“‘committed to ongoing dialogue, so that we can understand each other better, grow in mutual respect and find increasing avenues for cooperation among ourselves and in our commun?

ty.”

Teach Peace

Fact sheet on Bahé’i funeral practices availiable

A new one-page fact sheet about Bahd’f funeral practices and Bahd” teachings on life after death is now available from the Office of Public Information and the Baha’{ Distribution Service.

Local Spiritual Assemblies and Baha'i Groups can use the fact sheet with the Press/Presentation Kit to educate funeral directors about the nature and teachings of the Faith and to clarify the requirements for Baha’! funerals. You can order a packet of five fact sheets from the Bahé’! Distribution Service for $1.25. ‘‘Baha’{ Funeral Practices”’ is also available from the Office of Public Information for 25 cents each plus postage.

The Bahd’ts of Central Ohio had this display booth last November 11-12 at the 1989 Columbus International Festival whose theme was ‘A Child’s Right to a Peaceful World.’ The brightly colored canvas backdrop, which shows children raising the letters ‘P-E-A-C-E,’ was made for the Peace Pavilion at the 1989 Ohio State Fair. The booth incor porated Bahd'i writings and principles

among three tail trees with round Photos of children’s faces appearing in places where fruits might be expected Rented video equipment was used to show Bahd't videos in the ‘auxiliary part of the booth. About 100 copies a/ the peace statement were taken with 2 variety of other Bahd'Y literanare from @ plexiglas rack mext fo the video ares �[Page 19]The American Baha’! / March 1999 / 19

4

Six Girl Scouts from Delaware, Ohio, one from a Bahd’t family and the others from various Christian denominations, recently received the Bahd'{ ‘Unity of Mankind’ emblem earned over a six-month period as third grade Brownies. The program, offered by the National Spiritual Assembly and the

Girl Scouts of America, was sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Westerville and administered by the Bahd'i Group of Delaware. The recipients were (left to right) Courtney Robinson, Cara Weiser, Christina Mengerink, Chanette Turner, Tasha Murphy and Dori Hancock.

Traveling teachers for Chinese now in U.S.

Many traveling teachers experienced in reaching the Chinese people will be available following the International Chinese Teaching Symposium to be held March 29-April 1 in San Francisco, California.

Among these traveling teachers are Farzam Kamalabadi and Kit Ying Kiang. Mr. Kamalabadi, who speaks both Mandarin and Cantonese, is a resident of Macau where he serves on the Baha’i Committee for China. He has extensive experience in direct teaching among the Chinese in Macau and Hong Kong, as well as in working with the Chinese news media.

Mr. Kit, a Malaysian-born pioncer to Taiwan, has many years of experience as an Auxiliary Board member. He will be working primarily with the Metro 1000 Project in the San Francisco/San Jose area for three months.

The National Teaching Committee invites communities interested in reaching the Chinese to host these or other traveling teachers. For more information, please contact the National Teaching Committee office, Chinese desk, at the Baha’i National Center, 708-869-9039, ext. 231.

Letters

from page 15

waukee Association of Interfaith Relations, had as its theme ‘‘Religion . . . Exalting the Arts.’’

Included in the program was a reflection of Hindu arts by a representative of that faith; a Hindu Temple dance; a percussion presentation by a representative of paganism (who explained that the original meaning of “‘pagan’’ was one from a rural area who celebrated his African roots); poetry by a black American poet read and interpreted by Carolyn Ritacca; a Mosque slide presentation by a Muslim; a contemporary Gospel group; an ancient Sikh song by representatives of Sikhism; a dance interpretation of a Hebrew prayer; a Catholic choir; and a Gohozon chant by Buddhists.

The keynote speaker was Phil Lucas, an American Indian film-maker and a Baha’{. The printed program included symbols of major religions in a beautifully designed arrangement by talented artist Colette Smith who is a Baha’f.

The well-attended program was received with enthusiasm and provided an opportunity for significant intermingling of diverse people. It also emphasized the important relationship of religion to the development of art, culture and devotional! practices

At the threshold of the emergence of Baha’i culture, we benefit immensely from the reminder that we can contribute to the art forms that will reflect the spirit of Baha.

Thank you, Milwaukee, for a job well done.

Anne Gordon Atkinson Wilmette, Illinois

Trust In Baha'u'llah, and...

To the Editor:

On a bus ride from Chicago to Madison, Wisconsin, I sat next to a friendly stranger. After the trip, I got off the bus feeling guilty for not having men IN MEMORIAM

tioned the Faith to him

That was on a Sunday night. | no idea what Baha'u'llah had in store for me for the next seven days

That week a professor of anthropo ogy told his students to conduct an im terview with someone of an uncommor nationality, ethnicity or religion. Sarprisingly, not one but three of my peers asked me about the Faith

By Wednesday | had given three per sonal firesides. | thanked Baha’u"llah for pacifying those feelings of guilt from the previous Sunday. Little did I know that He wasn’t through with me yet.

My roommate, who is proficient in French, had to present an oral report by Monday. For days she pondered what to discuss.

When I told her about my views, it occurred to her that already had enough practice discussing the Faith, it wouldn't hurt to talk about it again. She presented the Boot of Laws and Book of Certitude with visual aids to a class of 20 students while speaking in French about the history and principles of the Faith

The week was not yet over. Some time ago I had met a Marxist at college and had given him a copy of The Behd't Faith and Marxism

inter el

That week | shared a few persone problems with him, and his first re sponse was, “Trust in Bahé’ ular

| was astonished. He said ing research on the Faith for a tern paper, as he found the teachings ver appealing

I learned something valuable the week: no matter how challenging. ur solvable or impossible our daily task seem, if we strive wholeheartedly and with selfless motives, assistance from the Concourse on high is unfailing

If we “‘trust in Bahd’u"llah” with pure hearts, all our goals will be met and our problems solved

Nilufar Rez

Madison, Wisconsin

ne was co

Florence Mae Felder

The Bahd’( Group of Lafayette, Colorado, put together an information booth for the week-long celebration last October of the city’s 100th birthday. Thanks to help from nearby communities, the booth had a banner, pan

els, a large photograph of the House of Worship, and literature which was given to a number of visitors including a Catholic nun. A flyer was also ofJered inviting people to a fireside on unity in diversity.

Agnes (Pat) Beveridge

Palm Springs, CA Henderson, GA January 22, 1990 1989

Chief Buffalo Sr. Amelia Folster Charlottesville, VA Sidney, NE November 27, 1989 June 13, 1989 Charles Coates Lois Abas Foster Kathleen, GA Glenrock, WY 1989 January 27, 1990 Frances Crichet Lizzie Giles Elephant Butte, NM _—Salters, SC August 1989 Date Unknown Sylvia Cummings Ann Goode

Del Rey Oaks, CA Burton, SC September 16, 1985 October 1989 Dania M. Dale S.J. Herting South Bay, FL Lewisville, TX 1989 December 6, 1989 David David Lucile Holmes Brentwood, CA Florence, SC August 1989 August 29, 1986 Vera S. Eresli Verna Johnson Chicago, IL Garden Grove, CA January 31, 1990 January 16, 1990 Julie Farrell Helen Keisch New York, NY St. Cloud, MN

January 3, 1990

December 15, 1989

Stuart Kittredge E. Hartford, CT December 18, 1989

Stephen A. Koch! Stuart, FL January 15, 1990

Russell LeVell Pomona, CA August 11, 1989 Ralph Martinez Tucson, AZ

Date Unknown Vincent Mendeilo Marina Dei Rey, CA December 26, 1989

Lawrence Mitchell Minneapolis, MN January 8, 1990 Marie O'Brien Orange, CA January 10, 1990 Leo Powell Jr

St. Louis, MO Octoder 1989

Yadullah Rafatt Saratoga, CA November 29, 1989

Virginia Reveal St. Paul, MN December 18

George Rivers Burton, SC

Date Unknown Randall Rowe Houston, TX October 22, 1989 Robert Lee Ruiz Brentwood, CA December 16, 1989 Michaci D. Sauce Avondale, LA November 25, 1989 Gretchen Schultz Springfield, IL February 15, 1989 Arash Valizaded San Ramone, CA Octoder 3, 1989

Mary B. Walllice Vero Beach, FL September 1983 Lena Weil Lewisville, TX November 4, 1989

1989 �[Page 20]28 / The American Babé’i / March 1990

These are the days for rendering the divine Cause victorious and effective aid! The victory of God’ s Faith is dependent upon teaching ; and teaching is conditional upon righteous actions and goodly deeds and conduct. The foundation-stone of a life lived in the way of God is the pursuit of moral excellence and the acquistion of a character endowed with qualities that are well-pleasing in His sight. The Bahd’ (s should adorn themselves with this holy raiment; with this mighty sword they should conquer the citadels of men's hearts. People have grown weary and impatient of rhetoric and discourse, of preaching and sermonizing. In this day, the one thing that can deliver the world from its travail and attract the hearts of its people is deeds, not words; example, not precept; saintly virtues, not statements and charters issued by governments and nations on socio-political affairs. In all matters, great or small, word must be the complement of deed, and deed the companion of word: each must supplement, support and reinforce the other. Jt is in this respect that the Bahd' (s must seek distinction over other peoples and nations, whom the Pen of the Most High has epitomized in the following words: ‘Their words are the pride of the world, and their deeds are the shame of the nations.’

—Shoghi Effendi, Trustworthiness, p. 19

and promoting the

sponsored by the Central Washington 1989 the float was ¢ part of 14 parace: Float Committee and the Sp As- and won I! trophies. sembly of Yakima CCD No, 3 has been

March 29-April 1: Bahd'{ international Chinese Symposium, Baha’) C-onter, San Francisco, California.

March 30-April 1: Vision to Victory conference, Portland, Oregon.

March 30-April 1: Vision to Victory conference, Cleveland, Ohio. For

ee ee ee eee = hotel reservations, please phone 216-663-4100.

seOVING? eee eet | Se on faye be oe April 5-8: Pioneer Training Institute, Baha’i National Center, Wilmerte.

TELI j eerie eeseeerereee eee ee ees Illinois. Anyone who is planning or interested in pioneering, traveling lawaDas ica vin wduelwdsaage teaching, or is involved in teaching people of other cultures in the U.S. ox i So Pare tee tad has rar aot 00 abroad is urged to attend. Contact the Office of Pioneering, Babi’) Ne| fm a tional Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 708-869-9039. iy April 6-8: Spring Celebration of Victory, Louhelen Bahai Schoo! - i Tite Fol same Please DO NOT wae eacknamne (especially for new believers, seekers and youth) with Auxiliary Board mem In 4 bers Javidukht Khadem and June Thomas and assistants.

= The Vee aw April 6-8

Association for Baha'i Studies Conference, Birmingham, Engas a land.

1s “me Fea mae April 7: “Realizing Giobal Solutions: A Conference of Scieuce, He i. wo a - - manities and Arts,’ Haverford (Pennsylvania) College. Spomsored by the lo = Mid-Atlantic Regional Committee of the Association for Balt’ Suacie:

ADDRESS For information and/or « brochure, send your name and addres: ic Sco

s ome, Tremtom, NJ 08638.

ae April 9-19: Baba’ Spting School, Cypras.

Se aos ie ces sa, April 13-15: Visiomsto Victory conference, Winfrey Hotel, Birmingham. a a Gy ; —“— i Alabama. Keynote speaker: Dr. Robert C. Henderson. Registrar: Bobbic

Piper, Birmingham, AL 35243 (phonc 205-967-0334). Make hotel reservations directly (205-987-1600) and mention that you are attending the conference to secure special rates.

April 13-15: Senior Youth Conference, Louhelen Bah’! School. April 13-15: 10th annual Touchstone Conference for Youth at John Knox Ranch near San Marcos, Texas. Theme: “‘Bahé’{ Youth: International Pe-spective/Personal Issues.”’ Ages 12 and older. To register, contact Lorna

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| £—HOME TELEPHONE NUMBER: F—WORK TELEPHONE NUMBERS:

Pieaae cadens ot the ight hand agmct whose work Members Ube are

ee

i ae ¥ Hamency, 512-467-7245; for information, phone 512-353-3339.

l Ara Cole Nembr~=sCName Ty; April 13-19: Youth Symposium: The Environment (English), Landegs Ic We recerme rire copury beceeae Academy, Switzerland.

ff pScesteer eine fr teeters and eddereers on oes Our teeutetd medve saly ose April 19-22: Seminar for Youth: Heading East (German), Landegg Acad ee eee Soke eae oe eyes linecdenreal Sie. emy, s zerland. See. a eee wnt hae band my mame 1 April 22: BARTH DAY 1990. For information on bow you and your Cer are Rated abene yg ets ee amin, community can take part in this world-wide event, contact the U.S. Baha’! (oorectioss @ Get or recetee @) Own copy

UN Office: Bahé'is of the U.S., 866 UN Plaza, Suite 120, New York, NY 10017 (phone 212-751-1282).

April 26-29: 81st Bahé’{ National Convention, Baha’{ House of Worship Wilmette, Illinois. Seating by advance reservation only.

April 28: Rigvin celebration, Louhelen Baha'i School.

May 4-6; Parent-Child Conference (with Counselor Robert Harris), Lowhelen Bahé’{ School.

May 23-28: Study Session: Spiritual Dimensions of Health (German). Landegg Academy, Switzerland.

May 25-27: 17th annual Conference of Nur, Elizabethtown (Pennsyivania) College. Theme: “The Unity of the Races.” Speakers: Counselor Wilma Ellis, James Sturdivant, Nat Rutstein. For accommodations, costs and additional information, write to the Spiritual Assembly of Harrisburg. P.O. Box 3108, Harrisburg, PA 17105, or phone 717-232-9163.

June-August: Northern Star Bahd"{ Project, Alaska.

June 14-17: Bahd'{ International Chinese Symposium, Kingston, Je June 25-28: First Sino-American Conference on Women's Issues, Beijing, People’s Republic of China. For information, phone Global Interac tions Inc., 602-272-3438.

June 29-July 3: Seventh annual Bahd’'{ Teacher-Training Conference, Louhelen Baha’i School. For information, phone Karen Olin, 805-466-1077, or the Louhelen School, 313-653-3033.

August 10-12: Caribbean Youth Conference, Barbados.

December 21-27: Baha'i International Summer School, Malawi.

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