The American Bahá’í/Volume 21/Issue 4/Text

The American Bahá’í
Volume 21, Issue 4

Program draws praise from House of Justice

Loving cooperation key to local Assembly development

Between August 1989 and April 1990, more than 300 local Spiritual Assemblies took part in 11 Assembly Development conferences held across the country.

From Seattle to New York, from Atlanta to Los Angeles, from Houston to Green Acre, the friends gathered for an intensive weekend of presentations, workshops and consultation centering on the institution of the local Spiritual Assembly.

Hundreds of other Assemblies are presently using a series of modules on the functioning of local Spiritual Assemblies that are being conducted by Auxiliary Board members and their as sistants.

The topics of the modules range from consultation to teaching, from the application of spiritual principles to unity in diversity, from the prayer for Assemblies to the Funds.

The overriding focus of the conferences and modules, however, has been the spiritual significance and station of the local Spiritual Assembly.

Responses from those participating in the conferences or modules has been overwhelmingly positive, prompting the National Spiritual Assembly to consider scheduling additional Assembly Development conferences during

See DEVELOPMENT page 23

To the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahd'ts of the United States

endeavor.

. » . your report of the great success thus far of your recently launched local Spiritual Assembly Development Program and the spirit of loving collaboration between the two arms of the administration which attends its execution has brought us much gladness. We heartily applaud the bold effort you have undertaken to assist the local Spiritual Assemblies under your jurisdiction to accelerate their maturation, which, apart from being significant to the objectives of the Six Year Plan, is an absolute necessity if the World Order of Bahd’u'll4h is to demonstrate its capacity to fulfill the hopes of all peoples for a just, cohesive and progressive society.

Be assured of our ardent prayers in the Holy Shrines that the Blessed Beauty may strengthen, guide and assist all those involved in this laudabie

Universal House of Justice February 15, 1990

The ° or merican Baha’i

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

State Department's report, House of Representatives, UN Commission ail censure

iran for persecuting Bahd'is

The last weeks of winter witnessed an intense period of activity concerning the human rights of Baha’{s in Iran. After several months of effort, four events, in the U.S. and in Geneva, Switzerland, took place within three weeks.

On February 21, the State Department released its annual ‘“‘Country Reports on Human Rights Practices’’ for 1989 which documents the continuing repression of Iranian Baha'is and describes in detail Iranian government actions against the Bahd’is there.

The report notes that no Bahd’{s were executed last year and that the number of Baha’ {fs held in prison fell to fewer than 15. This is in contrast to the record of the previous cight years, during which more than 200 Baha’{s were executed and thousands were imprisoned on account of their religious belief.

In oral testimony before the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Human Rights, Ambassador Richard

See RESOLUTIONS page 2

Volume 21, No. 4

April 1990

A letter to his dear Baha’i friends everywhere

from Hand of the Cause of God William Sears

Beloved Friends:

We were all thrilled by the January 23 letter from the Universal House of Justice at the Feast of Mulk (Dominion). They summoned us to immediate united action. They told us that $26 million of the $50 million urgently needed to complete this phase of the

Hand of the Cause of God Jalal Khazeh dies

DEEPLY GRIEVED ANNOUNCE PASSING STAUNCH TIRELESS PROMOTER FAITH HAND CAUSE GOD JALAL KHAZEH. HIS STRENUOUS ENDEAVORS CRADLE FAITH HOLY LAND LATIN AMERICA AND WORLDWIDE TRAVELS AFTER PASSING BELOVED GUARDIAN SET SHINING EXAMPLE OF UNSHAKEABLE DEDICATION AND COURAGE, OF UNDEVIATING LOYALTY AND PERSEVERANCE. IMPERISHABLE RECORD HIS STERLING SERVICES AS GIFTED TEACHER DEFENDER CAUSE NEVER TO BE FORGOTTEN. HIS NOBLE SPIRIT NOW ABHA KINGDOM WILL UNDOUBTEDLY _INTERCEDE BEHALF PERSIAN BAHA’! COMMUNITY WHOSE VITAL INTERESTS HE SERVED WITH SUCH HIGH DISTINCTION OVER SEVERAL DECADES. FERVENTLY PRAYING HOLY SHRINES FOR PROGRESS HIS ILLUMINED SOUL IN REALMS ON HIGH. ADVISE FRIENDS EVERYWHERE HOLD BEFITTING MEMORIAL GATHERINGS HIS HONOR PARTICULARLY ALL HOUSES OF WORSHIP.

UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE FEBRUARY 22, 1990

plan for the mighty ‘‘Arc’’ of God on the side of Mount Carmel has already been contributed.

The remaining $24 million is required if we hope to launch and complete this vital phase of the work. This is our only way to protect and preserve this unimaginably sacred Site for all time and for all mankind.

All the next morning I sat at my desk gazing up at the heart-touching photograph of our beloved Guardian as a little child. I keep it there always in a special place, so he can look down upon me as I work. (I love him so!) I never forget the historic words which the Master, ‘Abdu’l-Bah4, wrote about Shoghi Effendi on the day of his birth:

“Verily that infant is born... and there will appear from his Cause a wonder thou will hear in the future. Thou shalt see him with the most great gift, most complete perfection, most great power and strongest might! His Jace glisteneth a glistening whereby the horizons are illumined! Therefore forget not this account as long as thou art living, for as much as there are signs Sor it in the (coming) centuries and ages.’ (Tablets of ‘Abdu’'l-Bahd, Vol. Il, p. 48)

What has all this to do with the $24 million we are about to pour forth to raise our glorious ‘*Arc’’?

Everything!

It is another ‘‘sign’’ and ‘‘wonder"’ from our beloved Guardian, although it is less than 40 years since he left us and not ‘‘ages”’ and ‘‘centuries’’ in the future. We can only imagine what wonders that coming future will hold for us,

Those of you who have been on pilgrimage or have attended one of the World Conventions have already been excited by that magnificent, matchless, wrought-iron gate that leads to the Seat of our supreme Universal House of Justice,

A masterpiece!

Each and every one of you will see ir one day, be sure. When you do, re member this marvelous story of yet another ‘‘wonder’’ and “‘sign”’ of our beloved Guardian, which I now share here.

As that stupendous, breath-taking wrought-iron gate swings wide to admit you to the sight of sweeping green lawns, rainbows of multi-colored flowers everywhere, flowering bushes and trees in great profusion; tall, dark, cool, green cypress trees stand as sentinel guards.

Suddenly there on your left at the top of a rise, in the midst of all this beauty, you see the Seat of the Universal House of Justice, “the House of the Lord of Hosts,’ foretold in prophecy; snow white, breathtaking in beauty standing there, at the very center of the mighty “‘Arc’’ of God on His Holy Mountain.

At one time in the grave and perilous history of our precious Faith, right where that magnificent gate now stands, it was part of a long-planned city street to enter and go across our property, dividing this sacred site in half.

Imagine the endless flowing traffic cars, buses, trucks, exhaust fumes; growing ever more heavy—back and forth—beauty, serenity, and God's promises shattered. After all, it was part of a long-planned cross-street from one side of Haifa to another

Think of how we would feel today if such a disaster had taken place. Imagine our sorrow! (and shame) if we had failed to arise and prevent such an eternal tragedy.

Only the wisdom, vision and guid ance of our beloved Guardian pre vented this awesome event from hap pening. From the beginning of his min

See MR. SEARS page 20 �[Page 2]2 / The American Baha’{ / April 1990

Amid many exciting signs of progress, Fund lags behind as time grows short in current Baha’i year

To the American Bahd’i community Sor the Feast of Bahd (Splendor) Dear Bahd’t Friends:

The National Spiritual Assembly has just concluded the second of three meetings with the Continental Board of Counselors. We consulted on the progress of the Faith in the United States and reviewed the programs of the past year as we look into the future. We were encouraged by the news of enthusiastic teaching ac tivities taking place throughout the country, especially through teaching insti tutes.

There are exciting reports of growth of the Faith in many areas of the country, including Texas, Arizona, Virginia and California. The commendable efforts of the Counselors, their Auxiliary Boards and their assistants have lent a special spirit to the Assembly Development program. Indeed, the Universal House of Justice, in its letter of February 15, 1990, applauded the efforts undertaken in a spirit of loving collaboration by the Counselors and the National Spiritual Assembly to foster the maturation of local Spiritual Assemblies.

We concluded that there is evidence of progress of the Faith in virtually every sphere of activity, a fact that should fill every Baha’{’s heart with happiness.

The one major area that remains out of balance with this general pace of development, however, is the National Baha’{ Fund. Our current position is this:

Year-to-date Contribution Goal

Actual Contributions Received through 1/31/90

Shortfall through 1/31/90

National Spiritual Assembly Pledge

to the Baha'i International Fund Paid Year-to-Date Remaining to be Paid

$7,500,000 $5,771,950 $1,728,050

$2,100,000 $833,330 $1,266,670

We are confident that the lovers of Baha'u'llah across the country will arise to meet the needs of His Faith using every means available.

In His service,

National Spiritual Assembly of

the Bahda'ts of the United States March 21, 1990

At Harvard Law School

Baha’i activities at UN topic of lecture

The past 11 years of activities by Baha'is throughout the world and at the United Nations on behalf of their persecuted co-religionists in Iran was the topic of a recent lecture given at the Human Rights Program Speaker Series at Harvard Law School in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

On February 15, Katharine Bigelow,

El Paso’s ‘El Limon’ project sees 50-plus declarations in area

As of last November the ‘‘E! Limon” teaching project in El Paso, Texas, which grew out of a teaching institute, had recorded more than 50 declarations.

The project is supported by the Spiritual Assembly of El Paso, which provides materials, child care and meals.

Some of the teaching institute's members live in Anthony, New Mexico, which has supported the project by providing a Sunday school for new believers and their children.

The core group of 8-10 people meets for most of the day each Saturday to study, pray and consult about its plans. That same evening, the group holds a fireside to which the new believers have brought their friends.

deputy director of the National Spiritual Assembly Office of External Affairs in Washington, spoke on the topic “Can World Opinion Affect Human Rights Violations? The Case of the Baha’is in Iran.”

“The experience of the Baha’{s,’’ Ms. Bigelow said, ‘thas been that national governments care very much about their reputation in the global arena.

‘We believe that the support of the United Nations, the U.S. Congress and other national governments in repeatedly urging the Iranian government to grant the Bahd’{s their basic human rights has contributed to the decision to release several hundred Baha’{s from prison and has prevented any recent executions. It is difficult to persecute others in the broad daylight of publicity."’

Ms. Bigelow explained that four resolutions citing Iranian persecution of Baha’{s have been passed in the U.S. Congress since 1982, and that a concurrent resolution in the Senate is pending.

The latest resolutions note that although no Baha’{s in Iran have been executed because of their religious belief since 1987, the Bah4’{ community remains an oppressed minority deprived of basic human rights.

The American Bahd'(\s published monthly by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahd'{s of the United States, 536 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, [L 60091. Postmaster: Send address changes 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. Articles should be written dearly and concisely; color or black-and-white glossy photographs should be included whenever possible. Please address all materials to the Editor, The American Bahd'(, Wilmette, 11. 60091. Copyright © 1990 by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahé’ls of the United States. World rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A

Resolutions

from page |

Schifter said, ‘‘Countries that engage in similarly severe include Iran, which does it in the name of religion, and Iraq and Syria, which do it in the name of secular political ideology. In the case of Iran, religiously motivated repression continues to single out the Bahd’{ for the most serious victimization.’’

On February 26, the United Nations Human Rights Commission, meeting in Geneva, released the report on Iran of the Special Rapporteur, Galindo Pohl, that includes reports of abuses toward the Baha’{s.

The special report is based on the first on-site investigation of Iran's human rights practices and examines a wide variety of violations. It quotes a directive from Iran’s Prime Minister stating that Baha'is are not allowed to practice or teach their religion.

“While the report states correctly that individual Bahd’{s are treated somewhat better than in recent years,"’ said Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh, the National Spiritual Assembly secretary for External Affairs, ‘‘it confirms that the Baha’{ community is denied the basic rights guaranteed by international law."’

Dr. Kazemzadeh expressed concern that Baha'is, whom Iran considers “unprotected infidels,” are not allowed to elect their leaders, educate their children, or carry on normal activities of a law-abiding religious group.

The report also notes that most Baha’{s continue to be deprived of their pensions and that most are refused passports. In addition, Baha’{s experience problems in connection with the right of inheritance; they cannot obtain inheritance certificates because they do not belong to one of the four recognized religions in Iran.

“The Iranian government fights hard to defeat these UN resolutions,"” said Dr. Kazemzadeh, ‘especially any resolutions mentioning the Baha'is.

‘But thanks to international pressure, no Baha’{s have been executed for two years, and fewer than 20 remain in prison.”’

On Tuesday, February 27, the day after the release of the Special Rapporteur’s report, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed (404-0) House Concurrent Resolution 87 calling for ‘‘the emancipation of the Baha’{ community in Iran.”

The resolution was submitted to the

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Spiritual Assembly held a press briefing on March | in Washington to publicize recent developments. Speaking at the briefing were Dr. Kazemzadeh and Reps. Gilman and Porter, who spoke for himself and on behalf of Sen. John

Thank you! The National Spiritual Assembty _ wishes to thank those selected local | Spiritual Assemblies which the Na- | tional Assembly asked to write to their U.S. Representatives. The 140

Representatives co-sponsored House Concurrent Resoluoon ad

�[Page 3]The American Baha wn 3

April

More than 500 at Denver’s Vision to Victo

Bahé’i youth, children encouraged to attend 1990 summer schools

Now is the time to make plans to attend the 1990 regional Baha’{ summer

In light of the guidance written on behalf of the Guardian that “‘the ambition of every young Baha’{ should be, indeed, to become a well-informed and

has stated that young people ‘‘should Efforts should be made to ensure that

tional program by local children and a musical performance by the Van Manens. Red Grammer made a special appearance to close the evening.

with concurrent classes for the child

i

be

Panelist Elaine Losey (second from left) responds to a question during the Vision to Victory conference in Denver, Colorado. Other panelists were left to right) Counselor William Rob ren. In addition, the community had an immediate follow-up proclamation activity: on Sunday afternoon, a public meeting was held that was a forum for addressing racism in the schools

The collaboration by the institutions

And share them with National Teaching Committee Assemblies asked to expand, improve, revise teaching plans

The National Teaching Committce has identified some important elements of community teaching plans and has recently shared them with local Spiritual Assemblies to help them create their own plans.

A form for community teaching plans has been developed, and it is hoped that every local Assembly will make a plan and record it with the National Teaching Committee.

Assemblies are being asked to consider the status of their present teaching efforts in making plans for the coming year. They are not being asked to abandon any current plafs, but to consider ways to expand, improve or revise what they may already be doing.

The committee is looking forward to receiving copies of community plans and may be able to share some ideas gleaned from them in upcoming issues of The American Bahd’t.

Teaching cannot be left to chance if it is to be ultimately effective. As seeds that are systematically planted and watered will yield the greatest harvest, so seckers who are carefully cultivated and attended have a greater chance of thriving than those who are approached haphazardly and rarely nurtured.

Teaching requires regular and persistent action. It is futile, for example, for a community to schedule a weekly fireside and simply wait to see who shows up. Certain steps need to be taken to ensure that the firesides not only take place but that seekers will come and be welcomed

Taking such steps, which secure the success of our teaching efforts, depends upon planning.

Outlining a community teaching plan gives us a framework around which to build regular action that will

ensure persistent effort. While we cannot control the results of our efforts,

we can control the effort we make necessary and availabic to through systematic planning. The Uni versal House of Justice assures us that if our efforts are regular and persistent, they will bring success.

A primary element of community teaching plans is that attention be focused on reaching a particular population; for example, those who live in a certain neighborhood. This focal point will help draw the principles of teaching out of the abstract and allow concrete ideas for action to develop.

The local Assembly or Baha’{ Group should take into account the needs and Opportunities available in the local community before choosing a target population. If the community is strong, plans should be made to reach more than one population to make certain that, ultimately, all segments of society are reached with the Message of Baha'u'llah.

In developing plans, the Assembly or

Reston, Virginia, community hosts successfu!

ry conference

ets, National Teaching Comumitner member John Smith, Auxiliary Board member Carol Brooks, and Netiona Spiritual Assembly member Wiliam Devis.

of the Faith represented on the pancis began a pattern of consultation on teaching that could transform comme nities. Channeling the guidance and cm ergy generated during this conference may yield significant growth im the Rocky Mountain arce

Group should conside: carcfullly the £1

nancial, human and other resource: mace thie plans effective. Beyond that, however they must be able to mobilize those re sources, an easier task once it has beer decided exactly what should be done

Other important ciements iz ning are to consider appropriate ods to be used in re ng the population and appr present the Faith

As plans are carried out, them pr gress must be evaluated regular Communities as well as individuals car continually develop better approaches or improve upon their teaching plans = other ways.

When evaluating teaching plans new believers should be consulted Drawing them into the ongoing process of teaching benefits the individual a well as the community, as new belicy ers are often our greatest source o fresh understanding and renewed om

ergy.

peas

atic way

Symposium on Global Environmental issues

About 150 people attended a Symposium on Global Environmental! Issues presented February 10 by the Bahaf community of Reston, Virginia.

Dr. Ruth Allen of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Office of Science Analysis and Coordination served as moderator of the program, which consisted of a brief talk by cach of four panelists followed by a period of general discussion between the panel and audience.

The panelists were Dr. Donald Lesh, president of the Global Tomorrow Coalition (GTC); Walter Reed, a phys

ical ecologist with the World Resources Institute (WRD; Richard Laska of the EPA's Office of Communicanons anc Public Affairs; and Dr. William Gregg, an ccologist with the Natonal Park Service

Dr. Allen and Dr. Gregg are Baha ‘is

Folders containing copies of “The Promise of Workd Peace,”’ the Baba’ statement on the environment, and ihe Baha'i International Community's statement to the Workd Commismon on Environment and Development were distributed to panelists and members of the audience �[Page 4]4 / The American Baha'i / April 1990

An American ‘goes home’ to pioneer post in Thailand

7

The Office of Pioneering has receiv ed the following happy letter from piomeer to Thailand Bob Mclivride. As a child, Bob lived in that country with his missionary parents but had not expected to return. When he answered an appeal for pioneers he had other climes in mind; but after attending a Pioneer Training Institute in Wilmette, he was guided to return to Thailand where his early experiences with the culture and people would be an asset to his services as a pioneer.

He set to work immediately to put into effect his plans for pioneering by settling in a U.S. community where he could study the Thai language, finish his course work for teaching English as a second language, and work part-time in his field. Bob's focused efforts toward reaching his goal provide an example for us all.

Dear Friends,

Talk about going home again. It's not enough that the U.S. Pioncering Committee (sic) sends me home to

a

Thailand. Nor is it enough that the Thai National Assembly decides I should live in Chiang Mai, where I grew up.

When I get here, it looks like the best job I can find (best pay and benefits, best schedule, best location, best opportunity to learn and grow) is at the Chiang Mai International School, where I went from grades 3-8, and is the closest place to paradise that a kid could ever hope to find.

I am living in the Baha’i Center in Chiang Mai, a large, brand new home on the outskirts of town. A Thai family lives at the Center, and the wife, Silaa, is the caretaker. We have frequent guests from all over the world, and last weekend there was a Baha'i winter school with 50 participants.

I haven't been lonely yet, but it is sometimes difficult to get anything done!

The Center is close to work, but transportation is limited. Buses are cheap but infrequent, and taxis are expensive, so I plan to get a motorcycle. There is a restaurant nearby that can make any kind of vegetarian Thai food that | can order for 35 cents a plate.

All preparations—TESL degree, computer purchase, language study,

A special project for Bahd'ts Sponsored by The National Teach!

Comrmitiee

National Sprritual Assembly of the Bahd'Gs of Alas:

Northern

Baha'i Project

1350] Brayton Drive A: Telephone 907/ 345.3740

t, Alasks 99516

Northern Star

Baha

t Project

Alaska is continuing a major campaign of service and teaching Projects, the scope of which has not been tied here in over a decade. These projects involve a coordinated effort of all Alaskan Bah4'{ offices and resources. All the pieces to the puzzle are in place except

for one ...

WE NEED YOUR HELP!

We have urban and rural communities from the southerm end of the Aleutian Island Chain to the nomhemmost villages in Alaska who are asking for volunteers. Alaskan Bah4’‘is are arising, but their numbers are quite smal! and the demands are greater than they can mect alone.

We invite you to join us in responding to the Universal House of Justice's call for the Alaskan Bah4‘i community to “... organize a concened campaign for entry by troops.” Become a part of the Northern Star service and teaching projects, June 8 - July 6 and/or July 6 - August 1, 1990. Return this form and we will send you a Questions and Answers bookict and a Project Registration Form.

Name

AGdress

Sex Age

Sponsoring National Spirirual Assembly

Dave of Application

monetary savings, ¢tc., have paid off well—especially language study. I’ve visited Baha'is in villages and other cities with Thai-speaking companions, and felt quite at home. I’m reading and studying grammar 1-2 hours a day, and every day feel more confident in speaking and understanding.

Being in Thailand is a blast. Chiang Mai is not the same city it was 20 years ago, though. It is packed with tourists and all, that they bring—congestion, big hotels, high (relatively) prices, and millions of shops. Many of the places I used to live in and visit are still here, as if time stood still. Others are gone or changed enough to be nearly unrecognizable.

Traffic is pretty heavy. The ‘‘superhighway" near the Bahd’{ Center, a two-lane road by U.S. standards, is a veritable river, with three lanes of traffic moving in each direction. Fastmoving cars, overloaded trucks, tour buses and motorcycles drive down the middle of the road, passing precariously.

Three-wheeled taxis (‘‘tuk-tuks’’), motorcycles with side-cars and/or pulling trailers, small trucks, local buses and (1 swear it’s true) pedal ice cream carts travel along the outside part of the road. On the shoulder you have slower motorcycles and bicycles traveling in both directions, people making left turns, buses and taxis picking up

Last December 9, a small but enthusiastic group of Bahd’ts marched in the East Orange County (Orlando, Fiorida) Chamber of Commerce's annual

Overseas events, projects, conferences

Alaska: Northern Star Project. Need traveling teachers to help teach in the Aleutian Island chain villages, June-August 1990.

Barbados: Caribbean Baha’i Youth Conference, August 10-12.

Canada: Yukon Baha’{ Institute; ongoing.

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

El Salvador: Ongoing project in metropolitan areas, emphasizing teaching and consolidation. Youth are especially welcome.

Fiji Islands: Radio communications volunteer to help produce radio programs to help deepen local believers; ongoing.

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

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

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

Switzerland: Ongoing teaching projects in St. Gallen, Lucarno and Lavsanne; Bike Tour for Peace, August 1990; Landegg Youth Symposium Spiritual Dimensions of Health (German), May 23-28.

Trinidad: Dr. Ugo Giachery Teaching Project; ongoing.

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

and dropping off passengers, and pedestrians. So far I've only seen one accident!

The Thai culture hasn't been much

of a shock to me so far, partly because I was prepared for coming, through language and cross-cultural studies, but mainly because I feel I've come home. Eating certain native foods like “‘lamoot,"’ sweet sticky rice, noodle dishes, and fried Indian bread called “roti; hearing familiar sounds like roosters crowing at all hours of the day or night; sales people calling “‘roast chicken for sale’’ through the open bus window; the ‘‘open mike” party next door blaring Thai music until 3 a.m. one Friday night; the sight of palm branches swaying in the wind, the haze-covered slopes of the nearby mountain Doi Sutep, and about everything else I see or hear reminds me that this is not a hardship post as pioneering posts go, but simply returning home and picking up where I left off. As the Bab wrote:

“O peoples of the world! Whatsoever ye have offered up in the way of the One True God, ye shall indeed find preserved by God, the Preserver, intact at God's Holy Gate.”’

This may not yet be “God's Holy Gate,’’ but it sure feels like it

Bob Mclivride Chiang Mai, Thailand

Christmas parade. In addition to colorful banners, they carried signs on which were printed basic principles of

the Faith.

�[Page 5]The American Baha’{ / April 1990 / 5

Simplicity, economy key elements in new Fund system

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

o

The Baha’{ Writings remind us that “the progress and execution of spiritual activities is dependent and conditioned upon material means.”’

In this regard, ‘Abdu'l-Bahd established the institution of the Fund. Consequently, the Guardian implemented the establishment of four Funds to which it is our privilege and responsibility as Baha'is to contribute both

At University of Michigan

directly, as individuals, and collectively, through our Spiritual Assemblies.

In an effort to follow the guidance of the Universal House of Justice that “each National Assembly must find ways and means to stimulate the offering of contributions, in cash or kind, to make it easy for the friends to contribute and to give proper receipts to the donors’’ (Wellspring of Guidance, p. 35), the National Spiritual Assembly has attempted to economize by managing the Funds more efficiently and to simplify the Fund contributing and receipting processes.

the availability of monies to be used instantly to the greatest benefit of the Faith.

© Starting in May, great savings to the Bahd't Funds will be realized through use of a new one-piece Fund receipt mailer. By using the redesigned reply portion, your contribution will be processed more rapidly and efficiently.

¢ In the near future, the new Fund receipt mailer will tie into a lock box System that will allow all contributions to go to work for the promotion of the Faith more quickly.

Fund envelopes will be received at a post office lock box designed by our bank for the National! Spiritual Assembly. They will be collected from the post office and forwarded to the lock

box at the bank every 90 minutes, seven days a week.

The contributions will then be deposited by the bank to the National Assembly’s bank accounts for clearance that same day.

Thank you, dear friends, for your continued patience, support and suggestions. The new money management systems, the Fund receipt mailer and other exciting news will be part of upcoming Feast messages and issues of The American Bahd't, as well as of your delegate’s report from the 81st Baha’ National Convention

If there are any questions, please do not hesitate to phone 708-869-9039 or write to the National Assembly's Office of the Treasurer at any time

Leading poets, writers honor Robert Hayden

By LAURA H. ARTHUR

About 600 people including a number of the country’s leading poets and writers attended ‘Words in the Mourning Time," a conference to celebrate the poetry of the late Robert Hayden, held February 22-24 at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.

The conference, co-sponsored by the Association for Baha’{ Studies and the Department of English Language and Literature at the University of Michigan, was followed February 25 by a memorial service that marked the 10th anniversary of Mr. Hayden's passing.

Mr. Hayden, a native of Detroit, was a world-renowned poet and the first black to be named consultant in poetry to the Library of Congress in Washington.

For more than two decades he taught English and creative writing at Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee, and at the time of his death was a professor of English at the University of Michigan.

Mr. Hayden authored more than a dozen books of poetry including American Journal (nominated for the National Book Award in 1978), Angle of Ascent, The Night-Blooming Cereus, Words in the Mourning Time, HeartShape in the Dust, Figure of Time and A Ballad of Remembrance (winner of the grand prize at the first World Fes

Panelists field questions from the audience during the tribute at the University of Michigan to the late

tival of Negro Arts in Dakar, Senegal, in 1966).

A Baha'i for many years, Mr. Hayden served for more than a decade as poetry editor of World Order magazine.

The conference provided a forum for scholars, poets, poetry lovers and the general public to explore Mr. Hayden's poetry, which so eloquently reflects human conditions in a changing world.

Special guests included Gwendolyn Brooks, poet laureate of Illinois and the first black American to win the Pulitzer prize in poetry (in 1950, for Annie Allen); Rita Dove, associate professor of English at Arizona State University and the second black American to win the Pulitzer (in 1987, for Thomas and Beulah); Michael Harper, a critically acclaimed poet who is Kapstein professor of English at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island; and Sherley Anne Williams, a poet and editor of Callaloo magazine.

The guest poets shared their insights and understandings of Mr. Hayden's poetry. and offered readings of their own works.

The keynote address, ‘‘The Achievement of Robert Hayden,”’ was given by Darwin Turner, a poet and literary critic who is a leading expert on black American literature.

Robert Hayden, a Bahd’( who was a world-renowned poet.

Among those offering their unique insights into the life and work of poet Robert Hayden during the tribute to

Among the speakers who took part in three panel discussions on Mr. Hayden’s life and work were two Baha'is: Dr. John Hatcher, professor of English at South Florida University in Tampa and author of From the Auroral Darkness, a book on the life and poetry of Robert Hayden; and Xavier Nichols, who is working on a book about Mr. Hayden.

Other panelists were writer/pocts Melba Boyd, Laurence Goldstein, Lemuel Johnson, Eugene Redmond, Richard Tillinghast, Alen Wald and Pontheolla Williams.

Each session had a focused topic for discussion. The first was ‘*Robert Hayden: His Evolution as an Artist.’” The others were ‘‘Robert Hayden: Blues Poet or Modernist?"’ and ‘*The Tension Between Belief and Ideology in the Work of Robert Hayden."’

Following each session, the floor was opened for discussion between panel members and the audience.

Saturday evening’s program, ‘‘Angle of Ascent,’ was a dramatic presentation of Mr. Hayden's work by guest artists including jazz saxophonist Marvin (Doc) Holladay; dancer/choreographer Linda Spriggs; composer Stephen Newby; and Biza Sompa and the Bichinis Bia Congo dance troupe.

In spite of a winter storm that para

him at the University of Michigan were Pulitzer Prize-winning poets Rita Dove (left) and Gwendolyn Brooks

lyzed much of the city, the well-adver tised program drew an audience of more than 300.

Among the 600 people at the confer ence were 125 high school students » attended workshops in poetry ducted by Gwendolyn Brooks, Mi Harper and Sherley Anne Williar

During a luncheon Saturday after noon, certificates were presente: Ms. Brooks to those students wh played promise as young poets

The program for students was ar ranged by William Dichi, ad tor of the Louhelen Baha'i Schoo Davison, Michigan, and adjun ulty member in reading educati

Also during Robert Hayden Me dedicated at the universi Afro-American Studies Lemuel Johnson, director o he CAAS, presided

Other features included an exhity on Mr. Hayden and black American poetry that featured selections from the National Baha'i Archives and the University of Michigan's collection, and the presentation of films “Robert Hayden" by Donald Hal and “Detroit's Hayden: America’s Poet Laureate"’ by Ronald Scott

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

PRATT

‘amily Life to World-Wide Events —

Understanding Baha?’ u’llah’s World Order

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AN INSPIRING BIOGRAPHY of the Hand of the Cause of God Zikrullah Khadem, this book is a story of love—one man’s love of God, of the Central Figures of the Baha’i Faith, and of his unfaltering devotion to Shoghi Effendi.

Wnitten by his wife, Javidukt, this book is a tender portrait of Zikrullah Khadem, depicting over sixty-one 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 asa Hand of the Cause of God. His internauonal travels are chronicled, including tips to Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas, and his involvement with Baha'i schools, conferences, and conventions around the world

Contained in the biography are five essays written by the Khadem children that capture the spirit of love and guidance given by Mr. Khsdem, cach one illus~ trating the emphasis he placed on obedience to the institutions, on

Baha'i family life and unity, and on fasting, prayer, pilgrimage, and teaching. These accounts provide a vivid, unique glimpse of family life grounded in the teachings of the Faith.

An appendix includes letters of remembrance from other Hands of the Cause of God, from Counselors, from Baha'i Institutions, and from many friends who were touched by his warmth and inspired by his zeal.

Zikrullah Khadem, The Itinerant Hand of the Cause of God: With Love will inspire readers to live their lives as Mr. Khadem did—with unwavering commitment to the principles of the Baha'i Faith. He truly is a shining cxample of sicadfastntss, humility, and love. ff

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Gleanings from the Writings of Baha’ u’llah

translated by Shoghi Effendi PS $6.50

A compilation by Shoghi Effendi of excerpts from the writings of Baha'u'llah discussing the Manifestations of God; the potency of this age of unity; spiritual aspects of the coming World Order; the divine nature of man and his responsibilities to God and society; the spiritual meaning of life; the soul and immortality.

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Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration March, Atlanta, Georgia

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VT $15.95 / Beta or VHS Highlighting teaching and development activities in the United States and around the globe, video, the first in a series of videos to be produced quarterly, in cludes glimpses from

John Birks (Dizzy) Gillespie National Medal of Arts Award

Washington, DC

Renovations to the Shrine of Bahd' uw lldh and the House c ‘Abdu’ lléh Péghd, Haifa, Israel Restoration of Bahd' { House of Worship, Wilmette, [Mir

‘Green Light Expedition” Television Debut, China Promise of World Peace Tour, Russia Forthcoming Video Productions on Bahd' { House of Worship, India “From Haitian Roots,” Haiti Excellent for use at firesides, community events, or for per viewing. Bahd'{ Publishing Trust of the United States FORTHCOMING RECENT NEW CS From Haitian Roots. The Promise produced by of World Peace Bahd' { Media Services To The Peoples Video Price TBA Wi Beta or VHS of the orld Documentary of social and eco- 470m the ; nomic development in Haiti shows Universal House of Justice

how belief in Baha'u'llah and the application of Bah4’f principles are transforming daily life in this rural island setting. The fastmoving 20-minute video portrays the successes of rural schools, health care clinics, and economic development projects with use of consultation and other Baha’f principles.

This video will be of particular interest to seckers who want to know how the Baha’ { Faith can solve social problems.

Co-produced by the National Spiritual Assemblies of Haiti and the United States, From Haitian Roots will be available in late April.

Bahd’l Publishing Trust of the United States

Audio Cassette $9.95 Now available in audio fo the message continues to the Bah4’{ community levels of teaching and sen message of hope helps us to gain fresh insights into the challeng

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is especially useful to commuters, to those whose vision 1s impaired, to those who have difficulty with written English. Images Internationa!

Distribution Service �[Page 7]

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The American Bahé’{ / April 1990 / 7

fe to World-Wide Events — tanding Baha’ w’llah’s World Order

ARCHIVES

THE NATIONAL Baha'i Archives is secking, at the request of the Universal House of Justice, Original letters written on behalf of the Guardian to the following individuals: Judith A. Eggman, M.L. Ellas, Margaret Ellis (died New Oricans, 1965), Amalia Ellison, Ben Ellison, Della and Ralph Emery, Albert and Alice Entzminger, Frances Esty (died Buffalo, NY, 1963), Masud Extehadiah, Edward J. Eubank and Ada Mac Fadner (died Fort Collins, CO, 1961). Anyone knowing family members or relatives who may have these letters from the Guardian is asked to contact the National Baha’{ Archives, Baha’! National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or to phone 708-869-9039.

THE NATIONAL Baha'i Archives is secking District Convention voting lists for 1952-1967 for Wyoming, West Virginia, Washington state, Virginia, Vermont, Utah, Texas and Tennessee Anyone having voting lists he/she could donate is asked to send them to the National Baha’! Archives, Baha'i National Center, Wilmette, IL 6009)

WANTED

WANTED: “Up with People” alumni who are Baha'is. Do you know about the UWP 25-year reunion in Denver next July 25-29? All alumni, parents, children, host families and sponsors are

invited. Please commmct mee, whether o@ cco p>, are going. 10 help share the Path war more 2 ple who are waiting to serve the Cause Were | Kitty Hodges Latmes, RDS, Bor 2754 ben ville, PA 17821, of paome 717-275-406) (yon me call collect).

THE BABA Esperamto League is wrying put together an archive of cider or umusus be hd’! Esperumto materials. Also meeretet & >sian materials for studying Esperanto o x & veloping such materials. Agyore who hes pon Gal archival materials or who would Hike to o-in the creation of Persian-Eeperams carniny materials, please comtact the League at PO Be 9182, McLean, VA 22102.

WANTED: members for « support g-our Bahé’{ law enforcement office: fc. sae troopers, deputies, peace and police office corrections officers, etc.) from amy state or coun try. The primary goal is to promote fidllowste: among Bahd"{ law officers and, most impor to act a3 & support growp for probdiems faced oand off the job. Anyone wishing t© ingu:and/or heip the group get off the ground & asi ~ to send ideas and suggestions to Office Wane Gavula, P.O. Box $42, Bolton Landing 12814 (phome 518-644-2031)

MISCELLANEOUS

COUPLE presently pioneering © S 4 will be out of the country from August 19% September 1991. Their three-bedroom with furnishings if requested, i availadic to « 5 hai couple af a minimal rental cost. Othe %~ expenses in Si. Lucia are also low The perfect opportunity to fulfil « shorccrme » neer goal for the Universal Howse of Dusner information, contact the Office of Prosernng Bah’ National Center, Wilmette, [lL aoe Phone 708-869-9039

‘Literacy’ theme as San Jose community holds 9th annual Community Service Awards banquet

“*Literacy: Key to the Treasury of Human Potential’’ was the theme February 3 as the Bahd’{ community of San Jose, California, held its ninth annual Community Service Awards banquet.

More than 210 people attended this year’s event whose keynote speaker was Dr. Ray Johnson, headmaster of the Maxwell International Bahd’{ School in Shawnigan Lake, British Columbia, Canada.

Awards were presented to:

Mrs. Winona Sample, a member of

the Santa Clara Human Relations Commission, for her many years of service in education.

Mrs. Jennie Smith Collett, princpal of O.B. Whaley Elementary

School, whose work with students has twice earned her schools the California Distinguished School Award and the National Excellence in Education Award.

° Bill and Kate Bigler, founders of the Literacy Volunteers of America in San Jose for their work in training and placing tutors to work on a one-to-one tutoring basis.

° Dr. James Gray, senior lecturer at the School of Education, University of California-Berkeley and director of the

Bahé’is, Unitarians co-host Religion Day observance

The Bahd’fs of Tamarac, Florida, and the Unitarian Unttvensalit Church co-sponsored a World Religion Day observance January 20 in Tampa that ig together people of various re The program consisted of a panel discussion among representatives of the Buddhist, Hindu, Catholic, Methodist, Unitarian and Baha"! faiths,

followed by questions from the audience.

Dr. Ray Johnson, headmaster of the Maxwell International Bahd’{ Schoo in Canada, delivers the keynote acdress at the ninth annual Community Service Awards banquet presented Dy the Bahd"i community of San Jase. California. The theme of this year’s event was ‘Literacy: Key to the Treasury of Human Potential.’

California/National Writing Project The awards, sculpted by Baha'i Ver= Allie, were created to symbolize the tree of knowledge, and an attachec was inscribed with the name © honored and a quotation from the Writings of Bahd’u’ lab. An additional honor for the Santa Clara County recipients was a special Resolution of Commendation issucc �[Page 9]The American Babé /- April 1990 / 9

Consensus report due in October

UNA-USA, Sierra Club issue new guide on environment for interested groups

The National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United States is a member organization of the United Nations Association of the United States (UNA-USA).

UNA-USA, in coordination with the Sierra Club, has issued a briefing book on the environment for use by interested groups. It is a helpful guide for the study of global environmental problems that can be used as a progam resource throughout the year or as a guide for discussion groups held by local chapters of UNA-USA that other interested individuals and organizations are welcome to attend.

The results of these consultations and panel discussions will be compiled in a national consensus report to be released shortly before United Nations

Day, October 24. Thereafter, the report will be presented to the Bush administration, Congress, other national governments and UN officials.

The report is expected to be an important contribution to the policy dialogue leading up to the 1992 UN Conference on Environment and Development. These discussions provide opportunities for participants to add their perspectives and suggestions to the consensus-forming process.

The briefing book, entitled ‘‘One Earth Many Nations,’’ is available through the Publications Department, UNA-USA, 485 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10017. The price for Baha'fs as members of an affiliated organization is $6 per copy ($7.50 for nonmembers).

U.S. Ambassador James Wilkinson, deputy representative on the United ley Lee (seated at right), chairman of

Nations Security Council, meets with the Executive Committee of the UNAUSA in New York City. Members of the Executive Committee represent 130

non-governmental organizations. Shir the UNA-USA Executive Committee, is the representative to the UN for the Bahd’ts of the United States.

Baha'is take part in meetings to consider U.8. policy decisions on UN-related issues

Baha'is took part early this year in a number of mectings related to U.S. policy decisions on United Nationsrelated issues.

In January, Mary Power, representative to the UN for the Baha’{ Internatonal Community, and Katharine Bigclow, deputy director of the National Spiritual Assembly Office of External Affairs, attended a U.S. State Department meeting at which information was solicited from organizations intercsted in women’s issues. The consultation took place prior to U.S. participation at the meeting of the UN Commission on the Status of Women in Geneva, Switzerland.

On February 15, the executive committee of the UNA-USA Conference of UN representatives met, at their request, with U.S. Ambassador James Wilkinson, deputy representative on the Security Council, at the U.S. Mission to the UN in New York.

The meeting was held to initiate an exchange of information about U.S. policy on certain issues and the con

cerns of non-governmental organizations represented on the Council.

Those issues included increasing the representation of women on U.S. delegations, the possibility of initiating a policy-making process that would include consultation with representatives of U.S. non-governmental organizations, plans for ratification by the U.S. of UN Conventions, and U.S. funding for the UN system.

About U.S. participation in International Literacy Year (ILY), Ambassador Wilkinson said that an indication of U.S, interest was that the U.S. is a co-sponsor of the World Conference on Education for All and had donated $250,000 to the conference.

The meeting was considered to be an excellent forerunner to periodic dialogues between the executive committee and the U.S. Mission to the UN.

The chairman of the executive committee is Shirley Lee, representative to

the UN for the Baha'ls of the United States

Dr. Wilma Ellis (left), administratorgeneral of the Baha'i International Community, welcomes Lawrence Arturo, director of the Bahd't Office of

the Environment, and his wife, Zeena who will serve as admin tant to the UN representat Bahd'ts of the United States

Universal House of Justice establishes Office of Environment in New York City

The Universal House of Justice recently established the Baha’{ International Community's Office of the Environment.

Named to direct the office was Law rence Arturo, a graduate of the Univer sity of Minnesota with a master of arts degree in social and economic develop ment studies

The Office of the Environment rep resents the environmental interests and concerns of the Baha'i International Community in the UN system and in collaboration with other international! Organizations, and is located near the UN in New York along with other BIC offices.

The main function of the Office of the Environment is to provide a link between environmental expertise at the international level and the growing body of conimunity-based environmental projects worldwide. It seeks to fill a critical gap in the global conservation effort. Its current focus will be on trees as a foundation for conservation activities.

The goals and activities of the new office include encouraging local Baha’!

informa

conservation efforts through tion sharing and by providing technica advice through a volunteer corps of en vironmental consultants

It will link conservation projects «

the grassroots level with national anc international agencies tha nical expertise and a clearing-house and refe provide

small-scale conservation ac

have tech CSOUTOSS “ “ a serve

information Of suooeR

wIves

vestigating the application rate technologies such as solar energy to the int servation curricula at selected p and tutorial schools

The aim of the Offi ft 5 ronment is to promot : tainable development that economic, ecological and spi principles, and highlights the capaci of humanity to play posi affirming roles in sustaining the carth

Natlonal Assembly appoints Literacy Task Force to make recommendations for UN Literacy Year

The National Spiritual Assembly recently appointed a Literacy Task Force to make recommendations about possible Baha'i activities during the United Nations International Literacy Year (ILY) 1990.

The task force suggested that local Spiritual Assemblies consider the following activities:

1. Make certain that the literacy needs of your Baha’{ community are being met.

2. Encourage individuals to become trained as literacy tutors

3. Provide room in Baha’! Centers or elsewhere for literacy training

4. Encourage individuals to volun teer to help existing literacy organiza tions (on telephones, as drivers, etc.)

$. Write letters or articles to local newspapers about the efforts initiated

by Baha'is or others re ternational Year of |

6. Sponsor o related to furthering lit

7. Encourage “each h on individual initiatives mcon to teach)

8. Concentrate efforts e ished areas. Tra D

illiterate, who can i

9. Encourage the developmen

reading skills. Suggest that individua! initiate “Great Books™ program: local schools, lidraries and workplaces encourage individuals to dedicate night a week (or month) to reading story-telling to a family

10. Encourage Baha‘is to start read

ing clubs in the newghdorhood, schoo

See TASK PORCE page I¢ �[Page 10] / Tht Asperican Belkatt / Apell 1990

Logro del primer Catreda Baha’i para Paz Mundial

A los bahd’ts del Mundo

Anunciamos con seutimientos de agradecimiento y jibilo un logro de inmensa importancia para el progreso acelerado de la Causa de Bahd’u’Tléh. La Universidad de Maryland y la Asambiea Espiritual Nacional de los Baha'is de los Estados Unidos recientemente firmaron un memorindum de eatendimiento, estableciendo “‘La Citedra Bahé’i para la Paz Mundial” en di Centro de Desarrollo Internacional y Manejo de Conflico en esa universidad.

El propésito manifestado de la Cétreda es de “‘realizar y publicar investi ha'fs y la pez mundial dentro de un contexto inter-disciplinario; de iniciar foros pablicos para discutir los asuntos Ppropuestos en el Mensaje de la Casa Universal de Justicia titulado ‘‘La Promesa de la Paz Mundial’’; y de establecer lazos académicos con y de proveer ayuda técnica a las instituciones baha'{s en las dreas de la educacién de la paz y el desarrollo internacional.”’

Esta primera iniciativa por una institucién superior de aprendizaje significate y bien basada, para formular un programa de estudios baha'{s de tal

Lanzamiento de Plan de Ensefianza subsidiario de dos Afios—Europa O. y Asia

A LOS SEGUIDORES DE BAHA'U’LLAH EN TODO EL MUNDO

EVENTOS TRASCENDENTALES DESARROLLANDOSE ESCENARIO MUNDIAL, PARTICULARMENTE EN EUROPA ORIENTAL

| |

Y UNION SOVIETICA, EN UMBRAL DECADA FINAL CARGADO DE DESTINO DEL SIGLO DE LUZ, PROVEEN EVIDENCIA DRAMATICA ADICIONAL OPERACION IRRESISTIBLE DEL PLAN MAYOR DE DIOS PARA TRANSFORMACION DE LA SOCIEDAD

Completamente conscientes del elogio de Bahd’u'll4h para con el conocimiento como ‘‘alas para la vida del hombre” y de la importancia que El asigna a la adquisicién de éste; del consejo de ‘Abdu’l-Bahaé que deberiamos “buscar presentar el Mensaje a personas de influencia y llegar a ser una causa de guia para los doctos y distinguidos’’; y del llamado de Shoghi Effendi por un “‘esfuerzo decidido’’ de reforzar medidas ‘‘para el establecimiento de contacto mds estrecho con

los ideres de pensamiento péblico,

HUMANA. RAPIDOS SUCESOS IMPREVISTOS EXIGEN ACELERACION PARALELA CORRESPONDIENTE EM EMPRESAS VIVICANTES PERSIGUIENDOSE POR HEREDORES REVELACION RESPLANDECIENTE DE BAHA’U’LLAH.

NOS REGOCIJAMOS POR LO TANTO AL ANUNCIAR LANZAMIENTO EN RIDVAN DE PLAN DE ENSENANZA SUBSIDIARIO DE DOS ANOS PARA REGIONES INMENSAS RESTANTES EUROPA ORIENTAL Y ASIA. PASO TRASCENDENTAL INCLUYE DESENVOLVIMIENTO SISTEMATICO ADICIONAL PROVISIONES TABLAS PLAN MAESTRO DE ‘ABDU’L-BAHA YA EN ESTADO AVANZADO DE OPERACION OTRAS AREAS PLANETA. EMPRESA NAL. DE ENSENANZA, DISERADA, PARA, REF OREM SI NAL DE D PARA REFORZAR SIGNIFICATIVAMENTE PLAN DE SEIS ANOS GLOBAL ACTUAL. OBJETIVOS INCLUYEN ATRACCION NUMEROSOS NUEVOS ADHERENTES A LA ens AUMENTO TRADUCCION, PUBLICACION Y DISEMINACION LITERATURA BAHA’! EN IDIOMAS REQUISITAS AREA ENTERA, Y EXTENSION INFLUENCIA BENEFICIENTE

Peticién de Tablas de las Figuras Centraies

Actualmente la Oficina de Archivos esté identificando los destinatarics de las Tablas de las Figuras Centrales de la Fe y y las cartes de Shoghi Effen di.

Para poder ayudar con esta tarea, le pedimos 2 cuslesquier de los amigos cuyos parientes hayan recibido Tablas reveladas por Bahé’u’liéh, el Bab o ‘Abdu'l-Bahé, o cartas de Shoghi Effendi, nos provean con informacién sobre estos individuos. Esto puede inciufr historias o biografias de familie breves, arbol genealégico u otro material relevante.

También se apreciaridn fotocopias de las Tablas y cartes y una breve identificacién.de los destinatarios.

Favor de enviar toda informacién a: Archives Office, Bahé’! World Ceoter, P.O. Box 155, Haifa 31 O01, Israel.

Editorial, article in New York Times cite iran

ORDEN ADMINISTRATIVO DIVINAMENTE NOMBRADO POR MEDIO ERECCION MARCO INSTITUCIONES BAHA'{S LOCALES NACIONALES EN TANTOS PAISES ORIENTALES COMO SEA POSIBLE HASTA RIDVAN DE 1992 INCLUSIVE.

HACIENDO UN LLAMADO A AQUELLAS ASAMBLEAS ESPIRITUALES NACIONALES DE EUROPA, ASIA Y AMERICA QUE LLEVAN RESPONSABILIDAD PRIMARIA POR NACIONES INDIVIDUALES INVOLUCRADAS, PARA QUE CONSULTEN CON CONSEJEROS Y FORMULEN DETALLES METAS ESPEC{FICAS INCORPORANDO Y SUPLEMENTANDO AQUELLAS QUE YA HAN SIDO ADOPTAS Y QUE ESTEN EN PROCESO DE LOGRO BAJO PLAN DE SEIS ANOS. CONMOVIDOS A RENDIR HOMENAJE HORA ACTUAL LOGROS NO ALABADOS EXTRAORDINARIOS AQUELLAS INSTITUCIONES Y CREYENTES INDIVIDUALES ACTUALMENTE LABORANDO AVANCE CAUSA EN EUROPA ORIENTAL Y UNION SOVIETICA, LOGROS QUE HAN ABIERTO CAMINOS PARA INICIATIVA VENIDERA EN GRAN ESCALA. HACEMOS UN LLAMADO AL MUNDO BAHA’! A LEVANTARSE A APOYAR DIFUSION MENSAJE MUNDIALMENTE REDENTOR DE LA FE AREAS META MEDIANTE RADICACION PIONEROS Y MEDIANTE DESPACHO FLUJO CONTINUO MAESTROS VIAJEROS, ESPECIALMENTE AQUELLOS CON CONOCIMIENTO IDIOMAS PAISES Y REPUBLICAS BLOQUE ORIENTAL.

CONCOMITANTE ESTAS MEDIDAS, PROCESO CONT{NUO VITAL ENSENANZA CHINA RECIBIENDO {MPETU ADICIONAL.

EXTENSAS PANORAMAS ACTUALMENTE ABIERTAS A LA FE DE DIOS PROVEEN OPORTUNIDADES INAUDITAS LOGRAR NUEVAS VICTORIAS COMO OFERTA DIGNA SAGRADO UMBRAL BENDITA BELLEZA OCASION CONMEMORACION PRIMER CENTENARIO DE SU ASCENSION EN ANO SANTO VENIDERO. IMPLORANDO ABUNDANTE EFUCION CONFIRMACIONES DIVINAS PARTICIPANTES TODAS FACETAS HISTORICA CAMPANA DE SEIS ANOS.

LA CASA UNIVERSAL DE JUSTICIA 8 DE FEBRERO DE 1990

for continuing persecution of Bahé’i minority

In an editorial headed ‘“‘Iran Squirms on Human Rights,”’ The New York Times noted on March 10 the continuing persecution of Bahd’{s in that country.

Citing the State Department’s annual survey of human rights, the editorial says that “‘it deplores Iran’s efforts to stigmatize and harass the Baha’is, a minority faith of about 400,000. Tehran regards the Baha’is as ‘unprotected infidels,’ and forbids them to elect their own leaders or educate their children.

“When the UN investigator asked about the Baha’is, Iran responded that its only recognized religious minorities were Christians, Jews and Zoroastrians; all others are consigned to limbo. That reflects the zealotry that sets Iran apart. It's of a piece with the death threat, now reconfirmed by the Ayatollah’s heirs against British novelist Salman Rushdie.’’

The Times also cited the State Department report in a separate article that same day, noting that ‘‘A United Nations investigation of human rights abuses in Iran has found that many Baha’{ holy places have been confiscated, Baha'i students are denied admission to universities, and followers of the Baha’{ faith are prevented from emigrating.

“‘While the findings were generally

negative,’ the article added, “‘the report did say that the imprisonment anc killings of Baha’! believers has declinec since the early days of the Islamic revolution in 1979, when Muslim animosities against the Bahd’is were unieashed.”

�[Page 11]The Arntricam Baks’l / Agel 1990 / 11

BAHA'| NATIONAL REVIEW

APRIL 1990

NO. 128

A charter for Baha’i schools

This ““Charter for Baha’i Schools,"’ prepared for the National Spiritual Assembly of India by its Department of Social and Economic Development and Education, is presented here for the information and use of those involved in Baha'i education. It sets forth basic principles which may guide the development of Baha’ schools and other educational programs, amply documented by selections from the Writings of the Faith.

2 Prepared by Dr. Stephen H. Waite, head of the Department of Social and Economic Development and Education, National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahd'ts of India.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The teachings of the Bahd’{ Faith include many principles whose application will offer us new patterns for education. Yet it is premature for us to surmise the directions which may evolve. The following statement is therefore only a brief summary, for our current reference, of some of the essential features to be considered by Bahd’{ educators. Fostering these characteristics in our educational efforts will help us to perceive and explore further features as our awareness and capacities increase.

The synthesis of some of the teachings of the Faith represented here in a charter for Baha’i schools has been influenced by the experience of working to develop the Rabbani School under the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of India. Of greatest import during the Rabbani years has been the guidance from the Universal House of Justice relating to the development of the school. Further, this synthesis was enhanced by consultations held during a National Education Conference called for the purpose of consulting on the ‘‘distinguishing characteristics of Baha'i education and Bahd’{ schools.’ The conference was held January 23-26, 1988, at the New Era School in Panchgani, Maharashtra, India. In the four days that were spent, the proposed list of principles of Baha’{ education was discussed in detail and several new ones were added. It was agreed during the conference that the process of adjusting cach of our existing school’s programs to more fully reflect Baha’{ characteristics can best be assisted by a simple, straightforward statement or definition of the Baha’i school. A school’s governing body and administration can first come to understand the main principles. These can then be shared with the faculty, the students and the parents. Once all concerned persons understand the ultimate goal, the process of change in that direction can begin.

We look forward with anticipation to many discoveries and insights as we put Bahd’{ educational principles into practice. In the last century, in Iran, schools such as the Persian Tarbiyyat Schools became potent instruments for progress and development of the nation, communities in general, and improvement in the status of women. A similar capacity for the dynamic transformation of society now exists in India. That is, in our schools—through the application of spiritual principles derived from the sacred Writings of the Baha’{ Faith—is now presented a unique opportunity for social advancement. It is hoped that this document will help us accelerate the

process. INTRODUCTION

What is a Baha’{ school? What are its primary and distinguishing characteristics? The answer to these questions is a matter of urgent and fundamental importance to the almost 300 emerging schools in India. The Bahé’{ Writings do not detail a system which can SP ea ROE ECE rather, a Ba een sult of involvement of Baha’{ scholars and educators concentrating on this question. The first step in the process is the identification of the basic principles and teaching ideals which are reflected in the

Baha'i Writings. Second, a dynamic and creative process of interaction will occur as these principles are implemented in culture; there will even be interaction among the principles themselves. The implementation of broad philosophical principles will engender unique solutions depending upon the persons, culture, circumstances and efforts of each school. From this process gradually will emerge what will be accepted as a Bahd’{ system of education.

The function of education

The role that has been given to education in the Baha’{ Writings is a most important one. Education is critical to the development of both the individual and society at large. When speaking of the individual, Baha’u'll4h states: ‘‘Education can, alone, cause it (man) to reveal its treasures, and enable mankind to benefit therefrom." ' In this regard ‘Abdu'l-Baha states; ‘‘Education is the indispensable foundation of all human excellence and alloweth man to work his way to the heights of abiding glory.”’ ?

As regards civilization, Baha'u'llah says that the greatest means provided for the ‘exaltation of the Word of God amongst His servants, and likewise, to the advancement of the world of being and the uplift of souls. . . is the education of the child."’’ ‘Abdu’l-Baha adds that ‘'. . . learning and the use of the mind”’ is the *‘mightiest’’ of the ‘pillars’ and ‘‘unshakable supports of the faith of God."’ * In another place ‘Abdu'l-Bahé says, *'. . . in this New Cycle, education and training are recorded in the Book of God as obligatory and not voluntary.’’ ’ ‘All must receive training and instruction . . . universal education is a universal law.’’* ‘‘You must attach the greatest importance to the education of children, for this is the foundation of the Law of God, and the bedrock of the edifice of His Faith."’ ’ ‘*This school is one of the vital and essential institutions which indeed support and bulwark the edifice of manRe dea

Responsibility for education

The Baha'i Writings assign responsibility for the education of children to various groups and individuals in the community. They are, respectively (1) the individual; (2) the mother; (3) the father; (4) the parents; (5) the family as a unit; (6) the community through its elected institutions; (7) the schools; and (8) the teacher. Each has a specific and important role to play as a function of the relationship to the child to be educated.

To the individual, Baha'u'llah says: ‘‘Strain every nerve to acquire both inner and outer perfections, for the fruit of the human tree hath ever been and will ever be perfections both within and without. It is not desirable that a man be left without knowledge or skills, for he is then but a barren tree. Then, so much as capacity and capability allow, ye needs must deck the tree of being with fruits such as knowledge, wisdom, spiritual perception and eloquent speech.’” And ‘Abdu'l-Bahé says: ‘‘O loving friends! Exert every effort to acquire the various branches of knowledge and true understanding. Strain every nerve to achieve both material and spiritual accomplishments.’’ '°

To mothers, ‘Abdu'l-Baha says: ‘‘Let the mothers consider that whatever concerneth the education of children is of the first importance. Let them put forth every effort in this regard, for when the bough is green and tender it will grow in whatever way ye train it. Therefore it is incumbent upon mothers to rear their little ones even as a gardener tendeth his young plants. Let them strive by day and by night to establish within their children faith and certitude, the fear of God, Jove of the Beloved of the worlds, and all good qualities and traits... .'’ In another place He states: ‘‘The mother is the first teacher of the child. For children, at the beginning of life, are fresh and tender as a young twig, and can be trained in any fashion you desire. If you rear the child to be

straight, he will grow straight, in perfect symmetry It is clear that the mother is the first teacher and thar it is she who establisheth the character and conduct of the child.” * ,

To fathers, Baha'u'llah says: “Unto every father hath been enjoined the instruction of his som and daughter in the art of reading and writing and im all that hath been laid down in the Holy Tablet.” ”

To schools and teachers, ‘Abdu"!-Baha says: “Ac cording to the explicit divine Text, teaching the children is indispensable and obligatory. It followeth that teachers are servants of the Lord God, since they have arisen to perform this task, which is the same as worship. You must therefore offer praise with every breath, for you are educating your spiritual children.”

To the focal Spiritual Assembly, the Guardian Shoghi Effendi, writes: ““They must promote by every means in their power the material as well as the spiritual enlightenment of youth, the means for the education of children, institute whenever possibic Bah4'{ educational institutions, organize and super vise their work, and provide the best means for their progress and development." * “‘To assist the children of the poor in the attainment of these accomplishments, and particularly in learning the basic subjects, is incumbent upon members of the Spiritual Assemblies, and is counted as one of the obligations laid upon the conscience of the trustees of God ip every land.”’ *

Further, the Universal House of Justice has con firmed that the Bahé’{ schools which are operated by the institutions of the Faith are social and economic development projects, to be developed in accordance with the principles and guidelines it has provided Accordingly, those schools operating under the juris diction of Bah4’{ institutions should strive for sif sufficiency and self-reliance.

The Mashrigu'l-Adhkdr and the school

Eventually every locality will have its own Mashriqu’l-Adhkar. The Mashriqu’l-Adhkér is not simply a temple for worship, but rather is a concept combining worship and service in a dynamic relationship Worship is through the central edifice while service is through the dependencies.

The Universal House of Justice, in its letter of October 20, 1983, to the Baha'is of the world, states

“The oneness of mankind, which is at once the operating principle and the ultimate goal of His Revelation, implies the achievement of a dynamic coherence between the spiritual and practical requirements of life on earth. The indispensability of this coherence is unmistakably illustrated in His ordination of the Mashriqu’!-Adhkar, the spiritual centre of every Baha'i community round which must flourish dependencies dedicated to the social, humanitarian, educational and scientific advancement of mankind.”

Our schools will eventually become one of these dependencies of local or national Mashriqu’!-Adhkars. The school as a dependency of the Mashriqu’!Adhkér is an agency to utilize spiritual forces emanating from the House of Worship. Prior to the actual construction of a local house of worship, our themselves in this dynamic relationship linking worship and service. Education and training provide the skills whereby a person can offer service to the community, and worship provides the energy or spiritual power.

Summary

Education is understood to be ome of the cornerstones upon which the World Order of Baba u'llah is being constructed; it is a key to the re generative and restorative processes urgently required. Baha'i schools already have served as effcctive instruments for such fundamental social change �[Page 12]12 / The American Baha'i / April 1990

BAHA'| NATIONAL REVIEW April 1890 Mo. 128

An outstanding contribution was made to the development of society in Iran by schools, along with other Baha'i development efforts. So must our schools in India begin to understand their vital role to help transform society. 7

The evolution of mature educational institutions able to make a significant contribution to the establishment of the World Order of Baha’u’ lah is a process that will depend on understanding the role which they can play. This role is based upon what the Guardian, Shoghi Effendi, calls ‘‘certain basic principles” or “‘teaching ideals."’ '* These principles will be identified from the Writings of Baha'u'llah, the Bab, ‘Abdu'l-Bahaé and the Guardian. Presented herein are a number of such principles in the form of articles of the charter. Some of these principles have been identified by ‘Abdu’l-Baha in one reference where it is stated: ‘‘All schools and colleges should have these three foundations. . . . First, they should be sincere in the service of training the souls (Article II). Second, training in morality is necessary (Article I). Third, service to the world of humanity should be obligatory (Article V).”” *

The charter structure of this document, it is hoped, will at once set a clear direction in which our schools must begin moving, and will also stimulate, through the isolation of major and distinguishing characteristics of Baha'i education, the production of appropriate curricula and teacher training materials and methodologies.

ARTICLE I

Spiritual Development Is the Basis for Human Development

The essentia! basis of human development is the nurturing of spiritual capacities. ‘Abdu'l-Bahd states:

“And from amongst all creatures He hath singled out man, to grant him His most wondrous gift, and hath made him to attain the bounties of the Company on high. That most precious of gifts is attainment unto His unfailing guidance, that the inner reality of humankind should become as a niche to hold this lamp; and when the scattering splendors of this light do beat against the bright glass of the heart, the heart’s purity maketh the beams to blaze out even stronger than before, and to shine in glory on the minds and souls of men.

“The attainment of the most great guidance is dependent upon knowledge and wisdom, and on being informed as to the mysteries of the Holy Words. Wherefore must the loved ones of God, be they young or old, be they men or women, cach ac understanding of the mysteries of the Holy Books, and his skill in marshaling the divine proofs and evidences.””

ment unto this unfailing guidance is a process that .

begins from the very moment life begins. In this regard Bahd'u’lléh states:

“That which is of paramount importance for the children, that which must precede all else, is to teach them the oneness of God and the Laws of God."’

“As to the children: We have directed that in the beginning they should be trained in the observances and laws of religion; and thereafter, in such branches of knowledge as are of benefit, and in commercial pursuits that are distinguished for integrity, and in deeds that will further the victory of God’s Cause or will attract some outcome which will draw the believcloser to his Lord.

“We beg of God to assist the children of His loved ones and adorn them with wisdom, good conduct, integrity and righteousness."’ 7

less the character be trained, acquiring knowledge will only prove injurious.’ *

Further, ‘Abdu’|-Baha states that children must receive such spiritual training directly from their

mothers. In this spiritual training lies ‘‘the beginning of the process; it is the essential basis of all the rest.’’

“‘O thou servant of God! Thou didst ask as to the education of children. Those children who, sheltered by the Blessed Tree, have set foot upon the world, those who are cradled in the Faith and are nurtured at the breast of grace—such must from the beginning receive spiritual training directly from their mothers. That is, the mother must continually call God to mind and make mention of Him and tell of His greatness, and instill the fear of Him in the child, and rear the child gently, in the way of tenderness, and in extreme cleanliness. Thus from the very beginning of life every child will be refreshed by the gentle waftings of the love of God and will tremble with joy at the sweet scent of heavenly guidance. In this lieth the beginnings of the process; it is the essential basis of all the rest.”’ *

Spiritual training for the child should begin with the education of the prospective mother in terms of her preparation for this most important role. Schools must develop training programs for girls that will prepare them for this very special responsibility. This training should be based upon the elements of the process which ‘Abdu'l-Bahé has identified in the above citation.

This process for training the child, begun from the very moment of the beginning of life, should continue in appropriate ways throughout childhood and into adulthood. ‘Abdu’l-Bahd states in this regard: “The indispensable basis of all is that he should develop spiritual characteristics and the praiseworthy virtues of humankind.’’* The development of praiseworthy virtues will be accomplished through effective spiritual education combined with a balanced exposure to and training in academics, vocations, arts, crafts, music, and in effective service to the world of humanity. Our goal is to train persons in possession of the requisite skills, cager to attain the highest station to which an individual can attain, namely, service to the world of humanity.

Schools must contribute their rightful share to the spiritual training a child will receive. Curricula need to be developed to accomplish this goal. ‘Abdu’lBahd states that ‘‘training in morality’’ should be one of the three main components of all schools and col “Training in morality is necessary, so that the pupils’ good conduct may remain unchanged and so that they may progress in a most befitting manner, become possessed of lofty ideals, the world

‘Of humanity, and-so. that they ‘fast to the spiritual perfections ‘and to-that which does not displease God.”* ”

Training in morality should include developing the child’s understanding of the law of God regarding reward and punishment, the ‘Promise and the Threat.”’ U: the relationship between reward and punishment will lead the child to respect and to fear God. We must fear God, not ‘‘because He is cruel, but we fear Him because He is just, and if we do wrong we deserve to be punished, then in His justice He may see fit to punish us. We must both love God and fear Him.’’

ments; but this in such a measure that it may not injure the children by resulting in ignorant fanaticism and bigotry."’

ARTICLE

A Praiseworthy Character: Sincerity Is Essential Sor Teachers and Schools

Sincerity must distinguish our schools, says ‘Abdu’l-Bah&. Sincerity implies being genuine, straightforward, truthful, honest, and free from deceit or hypocrisy. When this virtue is truly reflected by our institutions and their teachers, then will we be successful in eliminating ‘“‘ignorance and the lack of knowledge’ and witness how “‘the lights of science and knowledge shine forth from the horizon of the soul and heart.’’ Regarding the role that the teacher and the institution can play in this process, “Abdu’!Baha states:

“First, they should be sincere in the service of training the souls. They should discover the mysteries of nature, and extend the circle of art, commerce, ¢tc., so that ignorance and the lack of knowledge will pass away and the lights of science and knowledg: shine forth from the horizon of the soul and beart. In all schools and universities, a genera! rule for training should be made."’ *

education. According to ‘Abdu'l-Baha, sincerity must be at the root of any of these.

é i �[Page 13]The American Baha’! / 190 / DB

BAHA'| NATIONAL REVIEW April 1890

ly grace, foster them in the cradle of all excellence, rear them in the embrace of bounty. Give them the advantages of every useful kind of knowledge. Let them share in every new and rare and wondrous craft and art. Bring them up to work and strive, and accustom them to hardship. Teach them to dedicate their lives to matters of great import, and inspire them to undertake studies that will benefit mankind.”’ “

Mo. 128

ARTICLE Ill

Development of an ‘Unshakable Consciousness of

the Oneness of Mankind’ Is Fundamental

to the Process of Bahd’t Education

Baha’! schools must help the community at large establish an “‘unshakable consciousness of the oneness of mankind’’ * in the hearts and minds of all persons.

“ Acceptance of the oneness of mankind is the first fundamental prerequisite for reorganization and administration of the world as one country, the home of humankind. Universal acceptance of this spiritual principle is essential to any successful attempt to establish world peace. It should therefore be universally proclaimed, taught in schools, and constantly asserted in every nation as preparation for the organic change in the structure of society which it implies."” ™

Our Baha'i schools should teach the love of humanity as a whole, as well as legitimate forms of patriotism which recognize the wholesome value of pride in our own culture, traditions, foods, music, dress, language, etc. Understanding unity in diversity enables the consciousness of the oneness of mankind, and is therefore an essential concept in the child’s education. ‘Abdu’l-Baha states in this regard:

“Consider the flowers of a garden; though differing in kind, color, form and shape, yet, inasmuch as they are refreshed by the waters of one spring, reviv “Bahd*u’ll4h has announced that inasmuch as ignorance and lack of education are barriers of separation among mankind, all must receive training and instruction. Through this provision the lack of mutual understanding will be remedied and the unity of mankind furthered and advanced. Universal education is a universal law.”’ *

ARTICLE IV

Education Should Provide a Balance of Academic, Spiritual and Vocational Training (Head — Heart — Hand)

Because the potential of each human being is unlimited, and we all have been endowed with a unique, wide set of talents and faculties, Baha’! education must be structured in a properly balanced way to develop or uncover what we inherently possess.

Baha'u'llah states: ‘The Great Being saith: Regard man as a mine rich in gems of inestimable value. Education can, alone, cause it to reveal its treasures, and enable mankind to benefit therefrom.”’ ”

‘Abdu’ l-Bahd adds: ‘‘In the school of realities they educate these sons and daughters, according to the teachings from God, and foster them in the bosom of grace, so that they may develop along every line, show forth the excellent gifts and blessings of the Lord, and combine human perfections; that they may advance in all aspects of human endeavor, whether outward or inward, hidden or visible, material or spiritual, until they make of this mortal world a widespread mirror, to reflect that other world which dieth not.”” @

“In this new and wondrous Cause, the advancement of all branches of knowledge is a fixed and vital principle, and the friends, one and all, are obligated to make every effort toward this end, so that the Cause of Manifest Light may spread abroad, and that every child, according to his need, will receive his share of the sciences and arts—until not even a single peasant’s child will be found who is completely devoid of schooling.’’ *'

‘Not all, however, will be able to engage in these advanced studies. Therefore, such children must be sent to industrial schools where they can also acquire technical skills, and once the child becometh proficient in such a skill, then let consideration be given to the child's own preferences and inclinations. If the child hath a liking for commerce, then let him choose commerce; if for industry, then industry; if for higher education, the advancement of knowledge; if for some other of the responsibilities of humankind, then that. Let him be placed in that field for which he hath an inclination, a desire and a talent.’’ @

It is clear from these references that both for the individual and for humankind as a whole, it is important that each person be enabled to develop whatever talents he/she has been given. For this we must offer children training in a balance of academic, spiritual and vocational skills and knowledge. The sciences, arts, crafts, music and the vocations all should be studied: ‘‘Arts, crafts and sciences uplift the world of being and are conducive to its exaltation. ...The knowledge of such sciences, however, should be acquired as can profit the peoples of the earth, and not those which begin with words and end with words,’’ ®

Further, because the amount of knowledge and skill areas continues to expand, there is a need to seek the more profound interrelationships and integrations among the widening content areas that we have to master. One interrelationship is between the theoretical and the practical. Many fields of study are more clearly understood when both the practical and the theoretical are understood. In the following reference from the Office of Social and Economic Development of the Universal House of Justice, an aspect of this is explored:

“The potential of each human being is unlimited. By offering a curriculum of academic subjects and practical experience in trades and crafts, a student will have a better learning opportunity toward finding and cultivating his/her natural talents and inclinations. In developing practical skills as well as learning theoretical knowledge in an environment devoid of prejudice toward any occupation, a person will not be confined by the basic tasks required of him in life but can continue the process of lifetime learning as a motivated and radiant human being.’’ “ (See Appendix A)

Other integrations occur in Baha'i education as a result of combining service to the world of humanity, spiritual training, and vocational training. Through vocational training students learn skills that can be used in service to others, which allows them to put into practice praiseworthy virtues.

Our teachers need to be competent in teaching methodologies designed to help uncover the students’ talents. Special training should be designed to help them master this orientation and the skills to facilitate this objective.

ARTICLE V

Service to the World of Humanity Is a Foundation of the School Program

Because service to the world of humanity is the highest station to which a person can aspire, ‘Abdu’)Baha says that all schools must have as « foundation of their program, service to the world of humanity: “Service to the world of humanity should be obligatory. Every student should know, with perfect certainty, that he is the brother of the people of all religions and nations and that he should be without religious, racial, national, patriotic or political bias, so that he may find the thoughts of universal peace and the love of humankind firmly established in his heart. He should know himself as a servant of human society of all the countries of the world. He should see God as the Heavenly Father and all the servants as His children, counting all of the nations, parties and sects as one family. The mothers in the home, the teachers in the schools, the professors in the universities, and the leaders in the lofty gatherings, must cause these thoughts to be penetrative and effective, as the spirit circulating in the veins and nerves of the children and pupils, so that the world of humanity may be delivered from the calamities of fanaticam., war, battle, hate and obstinacy, and so that the nether world may become the paradise of heaven.” “

In another place, ‘Abdu'l-Baha says: “One of the most important undertakings is the education of children, for success and prosperity depend upon service to and worship of God, the Holy, the All-Glonfied.’ “

A communication from the Office of Social and Economic Development of the Universal House of Justice explains the specific role that Bah’! schools are to play as regards development of the function o of service, particrmasty as it eclates to opment entising and the development of the attitudes thet ‘Abdu’! Bah has referred to above. Interesting, also, is the idea that service is linked with the practice of skills that are vocational in nature. (See Appendix A for the full text of this statement)

“In the Bahé’{ community and in the Baha’ school the attitude of service will be taught, its cxample carried out, its effectiveness demonstrated and its true value nurtured.” ”

It is clear that a Bahd’{ school must incorporate 2 service program for children from an carly age, as it is through the process of building attitudes of service to others that a child will have the opportunity to put into practice those praiseworthy virtues learned in class; hence, service is the practical expression of spiritual training.

Training in the vocations also helps the child acquire the attitude of service. Vocational skills will provide the child with a means to offer service to others. Further, training in the vocations allows the child to discover the full breadth of his/her Godgiven talents, such that these talents can be further

perfected.

ARTICLE Vi

Vocational Education Will Be Integrated into the Curriculum

“The acquisition and exercise of those practical skills often associated with the term vocational education, and heretofore isolated as a separate curriculum, must become fundamental to the process of education and to the development of the whole person and ultimately the local community." “ The reasons for this are: first, the acquisition and exercise of those practical skills learned through vocational education will become fundamental to the program of service and spiritual training. Second, they are necessary to enable the education of the whole person, where, without prejudice for or against any occupation, the ethic ‘‘all work performed im the spirit of service is equal in the sight of God” can be prop agated. Third, there is a need to extend theoretical study to both the practical application of theory and the execution of these apptications. Such a pragmatic curriculum is felt to be superior to either of the extremes, the purely theoretical or the purely voce�[Page 14]34 / Ree American Babs't 7-Apcil 1990

BAHA'| NATIONAL REVIEW April 1990 No. 128

tional. It is expected that benefits will accrue to the learner as new, more easily understood, and possibly more profound inter-relationships are found.

“If a student actually raises a crop, makes a garment, prepares a nutritious meal, or builds a cabinet as part of the educational experience, the student has not only acquired the rudiments of a skill that will allow him/her to begin to function independently, but has also greatly improved the possibility of suc cessfully applying underlying theoretical knowledge in new ways.” ”

ARTICLE VII

Bahd't Schools Must Give Priority to the Education of Girls and Women

Special opportunities and programs for girls and women must be provided by our schools. The emancipation of women and the consequent achievement of full equality between the sexes is critically needed for the future of mankind. Baha’{ schools have a special role and responsibility in this regard.

The priority given to the education of girls and women can express itself in the actual establishment of schools for girls, or in an emphasis on the recruitment of girls, with special support programs for their continuation and completion of school. Special programs need to be designed and implemented to train girls and women for their future role and responsibilities as mothers. Both boys and girls in school might receive training in preparation for marriage, with particular emphasis on the distinctive qualities of the Baha'i family and the special needs and responsibilities of each family member. ‘Abdu'l-Baha has explained:

“The school for girls taketh precedence over the school for boys, for it is incumbent upon the girls of this glorious cra to be fully versed in the various branches of knowledge, in science and the arts and all the wonders of this pre-eminent time, that they may then educate their children and train them from their earliest days in the ways of perfection.’’ *

“Devote ye particular attention to the school for girls, for the greatness of this wondrous Age will be manifested as a result of progress in the world of women.” *

That is not to say, however, that boys should not also receive an education, but only that our schools should recognize a special responsibility toward girls.

“The first duty of the beloved of God and the maid-servants of the Merciful is this: They must strive by all possible means to educate both sexes, male and female; girls like boys; there is no difference whatsoever between them. The ignorance of both is blameworthy and negligence in both cases is reprovable. Are they who know and they who do not know equal?

“The command is decisive concerning both. If it is considered through the eye of reality, the training and culture of daughters is more necessary than that of sons for these girls will come to the station of motherhood and will mold the lives of the children. The first trainer of the child is the mother. The babe, like unto a green and tender branch, will grow according to the way it is trained. If the training be right, it will grow right, and if crooked, the growth likewise, and unto the end of life it will conduct itself accordingly. 2

‘Abdu’l-Bah4 makes a number of curriculum suggestions:

“And further, those present should concern themselves with every means of training the girl children; with teaching the various branches of knowledge, good behavior, a proper way of life, the cultivation of @ good character, chastity and constancy, perseverance, strength, determination, firmness of purpose; with household management, the education of children, and whatever especially applicth to the needs of girls—to the end that these girls, reared in

the stronghold of all perfections, and with the protection of a goodly character, will, when they themselves become mothers, bring up their children from earliest infancy to have a good character and conduct themselves well.

“Let them also study whatever will nurture the health of the body and its physical soundness, and how to guard their children from disease. When matters are thus arranged, every child will become a peerless plant in the gardens of the Abha Paradise.”’ ”

ARTICLE Vill

A Supportive Affective Environment

Should Distinguish the Bahd’{ School The creation of a properly supportive classroom environment is an important part of Bahd’{ educational methodology. It is a task that primarily depends upon the skills of the teacher. Providing a child with a positive and loving environment, in which encouragement and praise are the primary pedagogical tools of a teacher, is our aim. A letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi explains: ‘‘Love and kindness have far greater influence than punishment upon the improvement of human character.” “ And ‘Abdu'l-Baha instructs: ‘Rear the child gently, in the way of tenderness, and in extreme cleaniliness.’’ ** He describes the teacher as a “‘loving gardener’’ who cares for the growth of ‘‘young plants.’”

‘Abdu'l-Baha describes the environment needed to support gentleness, encouragement, love and kindness:

“It followeth that the children’s school must be a place of utmost discipline and order, that instruction must be thorough, and provision must be made for the rectification and refinement of character; so that, in his carliest years, within the very essence of the child, the divine foundation will be laid and the structure of holiness raised up.

“*Know that this matter of instruction, of character rectification and refinement, of heartening and encouraging the child, is of the utmost importance, for such are basic principles of God.”* *

In another place, ‘Abdu'l-Bahd defines more extensively the goals of encouragement:

“The children must be carefully trained to be most courteous and well-behaved. They must be constantly encouraged and made eager to gain all the summits of human accomplishment, so that from their earliest years they will be taught to have high aims, to conduct themselves well, to be chaste, pure and undefiled, and will learn to be of powerful resolve and firm of purpose in all things.”’ ”

‘Abdu’l-Baha further explains the importance of encouragement and praise in the following two specific situations:

“The children who are at the head of the class must receive premiums. They must be encouraged and when any one of them shows good advancement, for further development they must be praised and encouraged therein.’’ *

“If a pupil is told that his intelligence is less than his fellow-pupils, it is a very great drawback and handicap to his progress. He must be encouraged to advance."’ »

The Guardian, Shoghi Effendi, in two letters written on his behalf, states that, even for more complex children and situations, wise handling, love, patience and encouragement are what is required.

“Very few children are really bad. They do, however, sometimes have complicated personalities and need very wise handling to enable them to grow into normal, moral, happy adults.’’®@ ‘He feels that nothing short of your motherly care and love and of the counsels which you and the friends can give her, can effectively remedy this situation.”’ “

In this regard, ‘Abdu’l-Bahd says:

“The child must not be oppressed or censured because it is underdeveloped; it must be patiently trained,” a

‘Abdu'l-Baha speaks to mothers in the following passage, describing a methodology: to praise the child for doing well; to counsel him if a mistake is made; to choose a punishment based on reason, if

“Whensoever a mother seeth that the child hath done well, let her praise and applaud him and cheer his beart; and if the slightest undesirable trait should manifest itself, let her counsel the child and punish

and

ARTICLE Ix

The Responsive Relationship Betweeen the School and the Community

The local Spiritual Assembly is assigned, in the Baha’{ Writings, the responsibility for responding to the needs of the community and for ensuring the education of its members. The schools should initiate and coordinate programs to respond to these needs according to the recommendations of the local Assembly. The schools thereby become potent environments for social progress. This responsive reiationship between the school and the community requires our understanding of several important concepts:

First, the type of education prescribed by Baha’! principles is one in which education is based partly upon the child's understanding of service. In this context both in ‘the Baha'i community and in the Baha’{ school the attitude of service will be taught, its example carried out, its effectiveness demonstrated and its true value nurtured.’’ “ Service programs and opportunities will be within the real-life situations provided by the community, i.c., through these programs students will take an active role in the affairs of the community as pert of their education,

Second, the dynamic coherence between worship and service, between the spiritual and the practical, as prescribed within the concept of the Mashriqu’lAdhkér, will require the harmonization of worship with service as a part of the total life of the community, including the school.

Third, the integration of the school into the affairs of real life will help the school maintain the pragmatic character of the curriculum. Education in this sense will be more “‘reievant”’ for both students and society. Also, the practical application of theory will provide the student with the “‘rudiments of a skill that will allow him/her to begin functioning independently.’ It will also greatly improve “the possibility of successfully applying underlying theoretical knowledge in new ways.”” ©

In short, the “‘compulsory”’ nature of service training, the dynamic coherence between worship and service, and the desirability of a pragmatic “‘relevant’’ curriculum all suggest a much closer integration between the school and the community.

Other dimensions, both suggested by the Baha’! exhortation to the individual to continually investigate truth and to increase one’s knowledge, and also by the evolving nature of society, which requires the individual to continually update skills and know!ledge, require that education be viewed as a life-long process that people of all ages will enjoy. This “new” concept of education suggests that new ways will be found to “‘open up” schools to permit a new relationship with the members of the community. This process should foster a responsive and dynamic reletionship between the school and the needs of society.

ARTICLE X

Excellence Is the Goai,

Volition Is the Means The exhortation to develop our God-given potentialities, our ‘‘talents and faculties,”’ to the highest degree of perfection is a clear and persistent require ment of Baha'u'llah. It is equally clear that the deve!opment of these faculties depends upon the exercise of will or volition by the individual. He states: “Strain every nerve to acquire both inner and outer perfections, for the fruit of the human tree hath ever

been and will ever be perfections both within and without.""* In another place Bahd’u"lldh states: �[Page 15]

tliat all S5 ‘ E beste uy a Le

standing of the Will of God provides the force need . ‘Abdu’l-Baha states:

“Will is the center or focus of human understanding. We must will to know God, just as we must will in order to possess the life He has given us. The human will must be subdued and trained into the Will of God. It is a great power to have strong will, but a greater power to give that will to God. The will is what we do, the understanding is what we know. Will and understanding must be one in the Cause of God. intention brings attainment."’ *

Affirming this relationship between making a mighty effort and the goal of excellence, ‘Abdu'lBaha states:

“Make ye then a mighty effort, that the purity and sanctity which, above all else, are cherished by ‘Ab [ tg '

a

i

5

&

to be chaste, pure and undefiled, and will learn to be of powerful resolve and firm of purpose in all things.” ”

Excerpt from a letter from the Universal House of of Social and Economic Develop December 25, 1987.

part of the growth and development of a community. The community's aspirations and activities should be reflected in its schools. Bach Manifestation of God

combined with training in the sciences, arts and crafts will spontaneously produce the desire to serve the community. And, since service to others is highest station to which a Baha’{ can aspire, the function of community service will be held in the highest esteem in every Bahd’{ community.

One distinctive feature of this view is that in the Baha’{ community and in the Baha’{ school the attitude of service will be taught, its example carried out, its effectiveness demonstrated and its true value nurtured. The acquisition and exercise of those practical skills often associated with the term vocational

and prestige to certain professions over others, the Baha’{ school should inculcate and demonstrate the ethic that all work performed in the spirit of service is equal in the sight of God.

In many countries in the developing world, the spirit and function of service will be realized through teaching those practical skills most needed in the development of rural communities, initially in such broad areas as basic literacy training, agriculture and health-related fields. Community service by Baha’{ students in Baha’! schools is not considered an appendage of the curriculum, but rather it is a primary focus meeting the current needs of the local community. The following points are offered as examples of the implications that can be drawn from this view of education and its relationship to the community as applied to the specific situations of local communities and their educational requirements.

1. The potential of each human being is unlimited. By offering a curriculum of academic subjects and practical experience in trades and crafts, a student will have a better learning opportunity toward finding and cultivating his/her natural talents and inclinations. In developing practical skills as well as learning theoretical knowledge in an environment devoid of prejudice toward any occupation, a person will not be confined by the basic tasks required of him in life but can continue the process of lifetime learning as a motivated and radiant human being.

2. Theoretical study must be extended to both the practical application of theory and the execution of these applications. If a student actually raises a crop, makes a garment, prepares a nutritious meal, or builds a cabinet as part of the educational experience, the student has not only acquired the rudiments of a skill that will allow him/her to begin to function independently, but has also greatly improved the possibility of successfully applying underlying theoretical knowledge in new ways.

3. A pragmatic curriculum is that which weds theory with practice and is superior to both the purely literary or the purely scientific.

FOOTNOTES

1, Bahd’u'll4h, Gleanings from the Writings of Bahd’u’lldh (Wilmette, IL: Baha’i Publishing Trust, 4th ed., 1969), p. 260.

2. ‘Abdu’l-Bahd, in Bahd’i Education: A Compilation, Research Department, Universal House of Justice (New Delhi: Baha’{ Publishing Trust, 1984), p. 48.

3, Baha'u'llah, in Bahd’/ Education, p. 5.

4. ‘Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the Writings af ‘A bdu'tBahd, trans. by committee at the Baha'i World Centre and by Marzieh Gail (Haifa: Baha'i World Centre, 1978), p 126.

5. Ibid, pp. 126-127,

6. Tbid., p. 128.

7, ‘Abdu'l Baha, in Bahd'/ Education, p. 4

4. Ibid., p.

9. Bahdé’u'lidh, in Bah’! Education, » 7 10. ‘Abdu’l-Bahd, in Bahd’/ Education, pp. 43-44 11. ‘Abdu’l-Bahd, Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’!

23. ‘Abdu’l-Bahd, in Bahd’/ Education, p. 58

24. Ibid., p. 62.

25. Ibid., p. 66.

26. Ibid., p. 70.

27. *Abdu"l-Bahd, in “Star of the Wen,” vol. XVII, 161.

28. From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, i= Bahd"i Education, pp. 120-21.

29. Baha'u'llah, in Bohd"! Education, p. 9

30. Ibid., p. 161.

31. Bahé’u'lldh, Gleanings from the Writings of Bote

u'lidh, trans. Shoghi Effendi (Wilmette, IL: Baha’| Pet lishing Trust, 4th ed., 1969), p. 287

32. Baha'u'llah, Tadéets of Bahd'w llth Reveoied After the

. Ibid., pp. 13-14

37. ‘Abdu’l-Bahé, in The Advent of Divine Justice by Shoghi Effendi (Wilmette, IL: Bahé"| Publishing Trust. ie rev. ed., 1963), pp. 45-46

38. Ibid., p. 128.

39. Baha'u'llah, Gleanings, p. 260

40. ‘Abdu’l-Bahé, in Bahd'/ Education, pp. 44-47

41. Ibid., p. 64.

42. Tbid., pp. 69-70.

43. Ibid., p. 26.

44. Office of Social and Economic Development of the Universal House of Justice, ‘Vocational Elements in Edw cation,”” Haifa, December 25, 1987

45. ‘Abdu’l-Bahd, in ‘Star of the West,” vol. XVII. p. 16 46. ‘Abdu’l-Bah4, in Bahd’/ Education, p. 59

47. **Vocational Elements in Education."

48. Ibid.

49. Ibid.

30. ‘Abdu'l-Bahd, in Bahd'/ Education, p. 74 $1. Ibid., p. 58.

52. ‘Abdu’ l-Baha, The Divine Art of Living, comp. Mabe! Hyde Paine (Wilmette, IL: Baha’! Publishing Trust, 1944) p. 63.

53. ‘Abdu’l-Bahd, in Bahd’i Education, pp. 81-22.

$4. Shoghi Effendi, in Bahd'/ Education, p. 105 5S. ‘Abdu’l-Baha, in Bahd’/ Education, p. 66 56. Ibid., pp. 37-38.

$7. Ibid., p. 72.

58. Ibid., p. 123

59. Ibid., p. 126.

6. Shoghi Effendi, in Bahd'i Education, p. 116 61. Ibid., p. 104.

€2. ‘Abdu’l-Bahé, in Bahd'i Education, p. 128 63. Ibid., p. 84.

64. “Vocational Elements in Education.”

65. Ibid.

66. Bahd’u'llah, in Behd'y Edwcotion, p. 7

67. Thid., p. 5.

68. Baha'u'llah, Gleanings, p. 149.

69. ‘Abdu'lBaha, Foundations of Wort’ Unity, p. 26

the Light of Acca, pp. 30-31.

71. ‘Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the #ritings @ 4 date Bahd, p. 150.

72. Ibid., p. 135 �[Page 16]16 / The Ameican Bebé’ ¢ April. 1990

S.C.’s Louis Gregory Institute hosts Literacy ri el

On January 26-28 about 40 people, mostly from North and South Carolina, took part in a Literacy Symposium at the Louis G. Gregory Baha’i Institute near Hemingway, South Carolina.

The keynote speaker was Dr. William (Blucy) Diehl, administrator of the Louhelen Baha'i School in Michigan

Also speaking and serving as a workshop facilitator was Dr. Dwight Allen, @ professor at Old Dominion University in Virginia.

Dr. Dieh! guided the participants in exploring a unique literacy training model that he has been developing over the past 10 years. The interactive model uses Baha’{ writings, concepts

and principles as its sole content source

Dr. Dieh| emphasized that one does not have to be highly trained or educated to use the model. In fact, a sumer of participants had little or no formal training in education but expressed a high level of comfort with the model during closing evaluation sessons

Dr. Allen discussed current trends in Dleracy training and pointed to direcuons in which it is going

Throughout the symposium, he

helped participants plan practical ways to implement the many concepts and

cause of universal educadeserves the utmost support

The

ton

that the governments of the world can lend it."—The Universal House of Jus| tice, “The Promise of World Peace’

Task force

from page 9

or workplace.

11. Encourage volunteers/tutors to visit the homes of friends who need tutoring to inspire and motivate literacy participation.

12. Train youth in literacy approachcs so they can be summer volunteers; encourage retired persons to take part.

13. Form high school or college clubs of literacy volunteers.

If you are involved in a literacy program or activity, please send informaton about your efforts to The American Baha'i, Wilmette, IL 60091.

ideas that were being shared.

One of those, introduced by Dr. Dich! and amplified by Dr. Allen, was the idea of ‘“‘spiritual literacy’’ as expressed by the Universal House of Justice in its letter of last July 10 to the Baha’is of the world.

Another participant, Simona M. Dunn, shared a model that not only stressed the importance of a person-toperson interactive approach to literacy but emphasized the importance of teachers recognizing and appreciating that most low-functioning readers have learned to derive meaning from the world around them in order to survive.

Many who don’t read or write well, she said, probably have other highly developed interactive skills. When these are recognized and validated by the teacher, the teaching-learning relationship is enhanced, enriched and in some ways becomes reciprocal because the teacher is also recognizing and understanding new skills.

A “‘Literacy ‘Update’ Symposium”’ is scheduled October 5-7 at the Gregory Institute. For information, write to the

Dr. William Diehl, administrator of eracy Symposium held Jamwary 26-28

the Louhelen Bahd’t School, presents at the Louis G. Gregory Bahd’

his literacy training model during a Lit Louis Gregory Baha'i Institute (Attention: Literacy Symposium), Route 2,

Imsn tute in South Carolina.

Box 71, Hemingway, SC 295%

phone 803-558-5093

Zundzi School at heart of development program

New video depicts transforming Influence of Faith in Haiti

From Haitian Roots, a fast-moving 20-minute video to be released in April, shows how belief in Bahd'u’ll4h and the application of Baha’{ principles are transforming daily life in rural Haiti, portraying the successes of rural schools, health care clinics and economic development projects.

The Anis Zuntzi School is an excellent example of social and economic development in the Haitian Baha’i community. Established nine years ago, this dynamic school uses the teachings of Baha'u'llah to combine moral education with academic and vocational training.

From Haitian Roots shows children learning, singing and working in an environment of love and mutual respect between teachers and students.

The Anis Zuntizi School can be likened to a heart from which spiritual energy is flowing to other projects in Haiti. So far, four satellite pre-schools have been established, drawing upon the teaching talents of some of the students enrolled at the Zuntz{ School.

National Assembly presents 5th Kellum Awards to two priests for youth work, anti-drug campaign

On February 24, the National Spiritual Assembly presented the fifth annual David Kellum Awards to the Rev. George Clements and the Rev. Michael Pfleger of Chicago for their work with youth of all ages and their anti-drug campaign.

The event was held in Foundation Hall at the Bah4’{ House of Worship as a part of its Black History Month observance that included a look at Baha’! contributions throughnthe years to race unity and an exhibit of works of art by African-American artists as well as profiles of African-Americans who made significant historical contributions and their present-day counterparts

On February 11, Harry Porterfield, a Chicago newscaster, spoke to more than 300 people at the House of Worship on ‘The African-American’s Contribution to Shaping the Lives of People Everywhere.’’

Also on that program were several prominent blues singers of the 1930s and 1940s including Fingers Johnson, Jelly Ho and John Young, and storyteller Glenda Baker from Chicago's Old Town School of Folk Music.

More than 100 people attended the Kellum Awards program. The awards are named for the late David Kellum of Chicago, a journalist and long-time Baha’! who founded Chicago's annual Bud Billiken Day parade.

The school also sponsors reforestation projects in a country devastated by erosion. A tree nursery at the school produces 120,000 seedlings a year, which are provided to local farmers along with training in new agricultural methods.

Grassroots development projects such as those connected with the Anis Zuntzi School are greatly needed in a country that has been stripped of 95 percent of its one-lush forests. Despite the fact that Haiti has received more than $65 million in international development aid since 1980, it remains materially the poorest country in the Western hemisphere.

Haitian commentators have noted that the country’s bitter history of slavery and exploitation has left a legacy of mistrust among the people—mistrust that has aborted many of the potential benefits of foreign assistance. Yet the need for effective social and economic development remains.

The Baha’i response to this need has emphasized local problem-solving based on consultation and cooperation. From Haitian Roots shows how agricultural cooperatives called ‘‘Groupements’ are using consultation to achieve what past initiatives and foreign aid had failed to provide: vision and unity.

Similarly, it spotlights rural medical clinics organized by several local Spiritual Assemblies that cooperate with government agencies. Together they provide reliable health care where it had been patchy or non-existent before.

The National Spiritual Assembly of Haiti was instrumental in the making of From Haitian Roots. According to co-producers Charles Nolley and Mark Sadan, the National Assembly initiated the project, raised funds for it, and mobilized people for filming and interviews.

From Haitian Roots opem with lovely aerial footage of the island and the Caribbean and closes with @ power ful symbol of what happens when Bahé'u'll4h’s Revelation is taken up wholeheartedly by the people: a Pe sian lime branch grafted omto « native Haitian citrus tree, successfully bearing fruit—with Haitian roots.

By providing a case study of how Beha’{ principles are giving new hope to the Haitian people, the National Spiritual Assembly of Haiti hopes that From Haitian Roots will stimulate greater interest and involvement on the part of the North American friends in the Anis Zuntzi School and related projects.

While From Haitian Roots is 2 documentary, it is also a powerful teaching tool that can help the friends reach out to the many people who are interested in social and economic development. It provides tangible proof that the cure for mankind’s “‘diverse ailments” is “the healing Message of Baha"u"lidh.’

‘Integrating’ conference for singles held at Bosch

“A Time for Renewal: Integrating Mind, Spirit and Body” was the theme for a Singles Conference heid February 16-19 at the Bosch Baha’! School near Santa Cruz, California.

More than 125 resident and day stvdents attended the three-day confer ence, which stressed the relationship between the Baha'i Writings and the present-day insights on dict, exercise personal habits and an over-all healthy life.

Correction

In the Baha’{ Newsreel video pre pared for the Feast of Mulk (February 7), & photograph of Peter Catches was incorrectly identified as that of Arvo! Lookinghorse. We regret the error �[Page 17]

Baha’is In Los Angeles collect clothing to distribute to city’s poor and homeless

Inspired by the example of ‘Abdu’lBaha, Who gave warm cloaks to the poor at the start of every winter, the Los Angeles Baha’ community's Arca Council of Kamal launched ‘The Coats Project’’ last fall to collect and distribute warm clothing to the homeless in the Los Angeles area.

Starting last November, a large number of Bahd’is from the Kamal area and throughout the community brought donations of clothing at every Feast.

One of the friends, inspired to follow the Master’s habit of arranging for

Trust booklets given out

The Spiritual Assembly of the Town of Smithtown, New York, recently presented copies of the commemorative booklet on the Sacred Literature Trust to four local libraries, 25 churches and synagogues, and two local newspapers.

As a result, one of the newspapers published an article about the Trust, which led to requests from nine readers for copies of the booklet and more information about the Faith.

cloaks in advance with a clothing shop, purchased 100 coats and donated them to the project.

In all, about 500 articles of clothing—coats, jackets, sweaters and children’s clothing—were collected.

About a dozen Bahd’{s and their friends gathered December 24 to sort the clothing and take it to St. Augustin’s Church in Santa Monica, where FAITH (Family Assistance Involving the Homeless) was preparing a Christmas eve dinner for nearly 1,000 needy people.

After the meal, those in need of clothing were greeted by the volunteers who, again following the example of ‘Abdu’l-Baha, helped the recipients with their choices and placed the coats around their shoulders.

The Council of Kamal is one of four seven-member area Councils appointed last year by the Spiritual Assembly of Los Angeles to help administer the affairs of its large Baha’{ community. The Councils—Kamal, Jamal, ‘Ala’ and Nuér—consult with the believers in their areas and organize activities, projects and area Feasts.—Susan Hegarty

Pictured are some of the young people

tin Luther King Jr. sponsored by the who took part January 13 in the annual Bahd’{ community of Chicago. observance of the birthday of Dr. Mar Chicago Bahé’is mark late Dr. King’s birthday with diverse program of ‘Spiritual Remembrance’

On January 13, about 60 people were taken on “A Spiritual Remembrance’’ in honor of the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The event, at the Chicago Baha’! Center, was the annual commemoration of Dr. King’s birthday sponsored by the Bahd’{ community of Chicago and planned by its Race Unity Task Force.

On the program were Bahd'l, Sufi Muslim and Buddhist prayers and meditations; poetry; songs, and a panel discussion on aspects of Dr. King’s life

and ministry.

Panelists were David Smith of the Community Renewal Society and two Bahd’{s from Chicago, Cheryl Rak and Eric Bruns.

The evening ended with vocal renditions of ‘*Lift Every Voice and Sing,’’ “Amazing Grace’’ and ‘‘Listen, Listen, Listen,"’ followed by refreshments.

A number of non-Baha’(s were in volved in planning, preparing food for and photographing the event.

Pictured are some of the Bahd’ts in Los Angeles who took part last December in a social and economic development project in which the community's Area

Council of Kamdl followed the cam ple of ‘Abdu'l-Bahd by distributin warm clothing to the o DOOr En needy

News In brief

Baha’is In S.C. gather to chart progress of ‘Project South Carolina’ campaig

On February 18, 195 Baha'is from throughout South Carolina gathered in Columbia for a meeting organized by the state’s Baha’{ Coordinating Com mittee to discuss the ‘‘Project South Carolina’’ teaching campaign

The proposed goals for the cam paign include enrolling 1,000 new Baha’is, contributing $1,000 each month to the National Fund, and establishing 100 teaching institutes and 25 Baha’! children’s classes throughout the state

Highlights of the February meeting included talks by members of the National Spiritual Assembly, the Auzxiliary Boards, and National Teaching Committee, and a fund-raiser that netted $1,900 for the Arc.

The Louis G. Gregory Baha’{ Institute will serve as a center for ongoing activities to support the goals of the campaign. So far, the coordinating committee has scheduled a series of new believers’ institutes, orientations for traveling teachers, workshops for Spiritual Assemblies, and teaching institutes for the spring and early sum mer. °

As a part of the Northside Interfaith Project (NIP), the Baha’is of Indianapolis, Indiana, presented a public unity feast February 13 that drew more than 40 non-Baha’{s and led to a halfpage article about the Faith in the /ndianapolis Star.

Acting in response to the letter of January 23 from the Universal House of Justice explaining the urgent need for funds with which to complete the Arc on Mount Carmel, the Baha’is of Carbondale, Illinois, decided to hold an auction for the Arc.

An isolated Bahaé'{ in nearby Carterville obtained a site, notices were sent, and on February 24 the auction was held.

Items auctioned ranged from a golf cap donated by a child to a copy of Be hd’? World Faith autographed some

by severa Ha

years age

raise money

The book was au

a@ unique way. Eact © fre “bought y to the Fund at a level b ford. Checks were shaken up, and person took next auction

the book ¢

the DOOK fh

In all, the 12 adults, three youth and eight children raised more $i 2% for the Arc

As a means of lear

about the early days South Carolina, the Loui Baha’{ Institute in Hemingway has be gun a “Teacher in Residence’ gram in which veteran Baha'is sh and record their memories and experiences during a residency at the Institute

In February, the teacher in residence was Mrs. Minnie (Eva) Flack Flagier c St. Mark

ABS seeks race unity papers for 15th annual Conference

The Association for Baha"! Studies is secking the submission of papers fo 15th annual Conference to be heid late

next fall in Atlanta, Georgia

To carry out its theme, “Models o Racial Unity,"’ the Conference wil cus on practical working models race unity as exemplified by some o the groups, organizations and institu tions working to achieve that goal

Submissions may be sent to the Com ference convenor, Dr. Richard Thom as, Department of History, 409 Morri Hall, Michigan State University, Bast Lansing, MI 48823, or to the Assooe tion for Baha'i Studies, 4 Copernicus St., Ottawa, Ontario, Canada KIN 7K4

To �[Page 18]18 / The American Baha'i / April 1990

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Or. Amin Banani Or

Santa Monica, CA. 90402 Rocty Riwer, Of. 4106

Or. Elste Austin P.0. Box 927

Silver Spring, MD. 20910 �[Page 20]28 / The American Baha’ / 1990

Mr. Sears

from page |

istry, Shoghi Effendi averted all such dcaerettinkatt Finiovioxnatcre, diplomacy and foresight won the supgood-will of the government of Israel, and the plans for this spirit bly of the Baha’is of the United Kingdom-Israel Branch; and on and on, Canada, Australia, India, New ZealandIsrael Branch.

When I told Marguerite and a few close friends that I planned to write this letter in hopes of helping to win, in the shortest time possible, the $24 million victory, she said, ‘It’s something like helping WLGI, the Baha’{ radio station at the Louis Gregory Institute, isn’t it?’’

I told her, ‘*That was only $1 million, this is twenty-four.’’ “But I remember that almost at

once, we went over the million dol True, I agreed, ‘‘but then we had a thousand dollars of our own to launch the campaign, as the beloved Guardian used to do. Now, we don’t have it."’

Across the room, one of our dear Baha'i friends opened her purse, wrote out a check and handed it to me.

““Now,"’ she said, ‘‘you do.”’

The check was for $1,000.

1 was encouraged to go ahead with this letter.

I was encouraged to go ahead, why not? I figured it out.

1. Lf 24,000 of my fellow-Baha’{s each gave $1,000, that would make the $24 million, wouldn’t it?

2. If 24 of my more affluent Baha’{ friends would take another look at that photograph of the beloved Guardian as a child, maybe they would decide not to wait for the ‘‘ages’’ and ‘‘centuries”” ahead.

Who knows? The sign of God on earth has always been a miracle worker. If 24 wrote a check for $1 million each, that would do it. Right? Or 240 offered $100,000 each, that would also be $24 million. Am I right?

3. Or, the one dearest to my own heart, and I’m sure to that of the beloved Guardian and the Universal House of Justice: In a recent Ridvan message, the Supreme House called upon “every man, woman, youth and

More than 30 Florida Bahd’is walk In Dade County parade

On February 11, more than 30 Baha’{s, adults and children, from five communities in Dade County, Florida, walked in the third annual Kendall Pride parade.

About 400 copies of ‘Ten Things I Can Do for Peace’ and 100 colorful balloons marked ‘‘Mankind Is Onc’’ were given out to spectators along the parade route.

child’’ to ‘‘arise’’ as never before. Since that hour, I have been hearing the sound of their hearts beating with a new and faster rhythm of “‘heroism’’ and ‘‘sacrifice.”*

I feel confident that when they look t that wondrous ‘‘face’’ at the top of

half-dollars, fives, tens on and on—until the $24 million is met, surpassed, and continues until the entire ‘‘Arc’’ in all its final glory, beauty and majesty is finished.

So that we (you and I) may be the people who arose to participate in something the like of which the eyes of man have never seen.

Of course it’s a quote! Everything of value which I say is a quotation that comes from the Writings. The beloved Guardian said that the Hands of the Cause had no “‘light’” of their own. They took their light from him. He was the sun, and they were the moons to his sun.

I know that, and when I am not turned to him, or in these days to the Universal House of Justice, I am less than the dust. But when I contemplate the reality of this Mountain of God, like Mulla Husayn on that first night with the Bab, my heart cries out:

“Predominant among all my emotions is a sense of gladness and strength which seem to transfigure me.’’ How feeble and impotent I felt before, but now I felt possessed of such courage and power “that if the whole world arose against me, I would singly and alone, withstand them all, and win the victory."’

What I’m really looking forward to is for all of us, every Bahd’{ in the world, to participate together under 1, 2 or 3. $24 million worth.

And the most wonderful thing of all is this: I have saved the very best part about this Holy Mountain for the very last.

So far, I have spoken almost exclusively of the majesty and incomparable greatness of the “‘upper slopes’ of Mount Carmel. Every word the eternal truth.

However, we cannot leave our theme without mentioning the ‘‘lower slopes”’ of this veritable Throne of God.

Prepare to be overwhelmed.

In order to fully appreciate the beauty, cloquence and power of these next Words, every Bahd’{ should read once again pages 95-96 from Citadel of Faith.

Shoghi Effendi tells us:

“Just as in the realm of the spirit, the Bab is the point round Whom the reality of all the Prophets and Messengers of God revolve. (Baha'u'llah said that) in like manner on this physical, visible, earthly plane, the Bab's sacred Remains constitute the heart and soul of nine concentric circles already referred to,"

From Him, the Bab declares, ‘‘God hath caused to proceed the knowledge of all that was and shall be.’’ Baha’u’ll4h describes the Bab as the “‘first and Primal Point from which hath been generated all created things.””

The historic reason for this unique and unequaled outpouring of ‘‘know!ledge’’ can be found in several places in

E

up until the coming of the Bab in 1844, only two of these ‘‘Letters of Knowledge’’ were revealed to mankind by ail the previous Manifestations, Messengers of God.

Baha'u’ll4h confirms the words of this fantastic prophecy, explaining that when the Qa’im (‘‘He who ariseth,”’ the Bab) appears at that time, all the remaining 25 Letters of Knowledge will be revealed. Thus with the coming of the Baha’{ Faith, all knowledge from God was at last revealed and released to the peoples of the world.

What this means to our teaching is that up until the coming of our Faith, all religions have taught mankind from a platform of two of the Letters of Knowledge from God. In this day, we the Bahd’{s teach from a platform of all 27 of the ‘*Letters of Knowledge.”’ In other words, from a// knowledge of whatever was, is, and shall ever be.

This in no way relegates the previous religions to a lesser or inferior station. Never!

The Holy Shrine of the Bab, we are told, is the Center of the Earth. It stands at the center of nine concentric circles. It is the heart of everything on this planet.

Here, it is simply stated, without the awe, the majesty, the magnificence and wonder of the exact quotations in Citadel of Faith. Simply put:

These nine concentric circles are as follows:

1. The world, the entire planet.

2. Israel, the Holy Land.

3. Mount Carmel, the Vineyard of

this shell (tomb) is en“Pearl of Great Price,"’

8. Within the heart of this “‘Holy of Holies”’ is the tabernacle, the vault wherein reposes the most holy casket.

9. This vault contains the alabaster sarcophagus in which is deposited that inestimable jewel, the Bab’s holy dust.

So precious is this dust that ‘Abdu'lBahé ‘‘extolled”’ the Site of that Shrine as being ‘‘beyond compare,” and ‘‘the tomb itself housing this dust’’ as the center of the earth, the ‘‘Spot round which the Concourse on High circle in adoration."’ Not occasionally, or from time to time, but always!

Imagine!

It was the Supreme Redeemer of men, the Founder of our Faith, Baha’u'll4h Himself, Who chose the Site for

have ‘‘all knowledge”’ at your diaposal

all the spiritual knowledge that *

that “‘is,"’ and that “‘shall ever be” That is why “‘personal transforma tion’’ is required of every Bahé’(/—

man, woman, youth and child. It has

Beloved friends, fellow-Baha’is, gaze one more time upon that endearing, soul-uplifting face of the beloved Guardian as a little child, then let us arise like a mighty tidal wave to make this ‘‘sign’’ and ‘“‘wonder’” come true—now, today, not in “‘ages”” and

Open your hearts to these words of the Blessed Beauty, Bahd’u’llah, Who tells us in everlasting language what the Mountain of God is all about.

One paragraph, 14 lines from pages 14 and 16 in Gleanings. Baha'u'llah is speaking to each one of us:

“All glory be to this Day, the Day in which the fragrances of mercy have been wafted over all created things, 2 Day so blest that past ages and cen ae the light of the countenance of the Ruler of the Kingdom of

the joyful tidings: He that was hidden from mortal eyes is come!” Please remember me in your prayers. Your fellow-Baha’i, Wilhom Seow Hand of the Cause af God �[Page 21]The American Bahé’{ / April 1990 / 21

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(Dialogs) Renewal of eS 29.95 pce myer el as’ een 1280 PER: Mundjatha-yi Hadrat- Baha'u'llah, HC chee Reatcsog ead tienewe, SC 75.00 SPN: Oraciones/Meditaciones, Tela/HiC Teareuceteeaies © 79

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ae "Abdu Baha Revelation of Baha'uish, Volume i inenortales, J

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Teaching Indians Cause can help ‘illumine whole earth’

In the Tablets of the Divine Plan, ‘Abdu’l-Bahé speaks of the great importance of teaching the American In dians: ‘‘. . . should these Indians be educated and properly guided, there can be no doubt that through the Divine teachings they will become so enlightened that the whole earth will become illumined."

\ nde al DR. EDRIS RICE-WRAY IN 1974

Dr. Edris Rice-Wray, ploneer to Mexico, world-renowned family planner, dies at post

Dr. Edris Roushan Rice-Wray, a

Efforts to reach these indigenous people with the Message of Baha’u’llah and to begin this illumination of the earth are being carried out all across the continent. The breadth of teaching efforts literally stretches to every corner of our country, from Maine to California, from Washington state to Florida.

Similarly, the range of the methods of teaching being used is significant. Many efforts are made to reach the Indians living on Reservations including those of traveling teachers and pioneers who have made a long-term commitment to living on or near a Reservation,

But there are many Indians who do not live on Reservations, and they have not been forgotten. One of the most loving and persistent efforts in reaching Indians is in the urban area of Minneapolis, Minnesota.

The teaching project in Minneapolis began more than two years ago and focuses on the Phillips neighborhood. This neighborhood, though economically distressed, is notable for the wide ethnic variety of the people who live there. A large number of American Indians live in the Phillips community.

The Baha'is of Minneapolis, who have been helped by individuals from other communities in the area, are determined to reach this population and have systematically delivered the Message of Bahd’u'll4h in the Phillips neighborhood.

For the past two years, one Saturday of each Bahd’{ month has seen teams of two teachers go door-to-door to discuss the newest Revelation from God. As 4 result, many people in the neighborhood are familiar with and are studying the Faith.

A small core group is involved in the project, yet not all of those who support it are door-to-door teachers. Some important contributions are made by individuals who stay behind and pray for the success of the effort.

Others help the teaching by providing rides to the area, child care, or food for the teachers when they return from the neighborhood to discuss their experiences.

Knight of Baha’u’lléh Esther Evans, 90, dies at ploneer post In St. Lucia

Esther Evans, a Knight of Bahda’u’llah to the island of St. Lucia, died last October 17 at her pioneering post after 36 years of service.

Born March 29, 1899, in New York City, Esther declared her faith in Bahd’u'll4h in Victor, New York, in 1942. In 1953, during the Ten Year Crusade, she offered her services as a pioneer.

By the end of that same year she had left her home in Rochester and arrived in St. Lucia, Windward Islands, opening that island to the Faith. She served that community as its only pioneer for the next 12 years until the arrival of a pioneer family from the U.S. in 1965.

An American Indian Pioneering Institute is being planned for August

4-46. Be sure to mark the date on your calendar and watch for further information!

As Minneapolis has one of the larg¢st populations of urban Indians in the country, the turnout for public mectings can be quite large.

About a year ago, Kevin Locke, a Bah&’{ who is a noted scholar of his Lakota culture, came to Minneapolis to perform traditional Indian songs and dances, to speak of the Indian culand to make mention of the Ba 70 were Baha’ {s.

On February 10 Mr. Locke returned to Minneapolis for a smaller gathering of about 165 people. This latest meeting was held in a community center in the Phillips neighborhood.

The persistent, regular efforts of the community to expand and include more members of this population has resulted in new believers. Last summer, one new believer from the neighborhood hosted a Nineteen Day Feast and

Development

from page 1

the coming year.

A major factor contributing to the success of this new process of Assembly development is the close spirit of cooperation between the clected and appointed arms of the administration.

Initially conceived through consultation between the Continental Board of Counselors and the National Spiritual! Assembly, every subsequent step of the process has witnessed a bonding of love and action between the two institutions.

The National Spiritual Assembly is

[ Rein 1009

a unity Feast at which one person decared.

It is hoped that the friendships that have been formed because of this project will secure the entry of many more new believers in this community.

The National Teaching Committec is pleased to see the long-term commitment to teaching American Indians by the friends in Minneapolis. It hopes that nationally, teaching efforts will become stronger and proceed with even greater force in the future.

To help in the development of American Indian teaching, the National Teaching Committee has a coordinator for American Indian teaching as @ member of its staff. For information or guidance with teaching efforts, or to share news of your activities, please contact Sherri Smith in the National Teaching Committee office at the Baha’i National Center (phone 708-8659039).

confident that this strong demonstration of unified action will continue to generate a positive transformation in the functioning of local Spiritual Assemblies throughout the country

It hopes that the members of every Assembly will take advantage of this unique Opportunity to further their understanding of and appreciation for the spiritual destiny of the institution on which they have the privilege of serv ing.

‘Our primary response must bc ft

teach—to teach oursetves and to teach |

others—at all levels of society, dy all

possible means, and without further de lay."—The Universal House of Justice

UPCOMING UN INTERNATIONAL DAYS

June 5; World Environment Day

September 8: International Literacy Day September 18: International Day of Peace October |; Universal Children’s Day

Packets of information for the celebration of Environmental Sabbath Weekend, June 2-3, can be ordered free of charge from the United Nations Environment Programme, Room DC2-0803, United Nations, New York, NY 10017. These kits may be used for inter-faith services throughout the

year.

IN MEMORIAM Douglas Adams Sr, Helen Gilliland Sarah McMullen Edris Rice-Wray Crow Agency, MT Aumsville, OR Williamspon, MD Choluba, Mexico November 1989 April 1989 September 22, 1987 February 1990 Maurice Baha Donald H. Hansen Lawrence Mitchell Mildred Silva Chicago, IL Lincoln, NE Minneapolis, MN Berkeley, CA January 8, 1990 December 12, 1989 January 8, 1990 December 10, 1989 Zeddie Bullard Thomas Hartter Ann Morris Louise Taylor Austin, TX Orlando, FL Tucson, AZ Montague, MI January 14, 1990 Date Unknown February 2, 1990 February 21, 1990 Justine Defender Margaret Hoffer Monireh Mottahedeh Ray Turner Warm Springs, OR Jensen Beach, FL Los Angeles, CA The Dalles, OR Date Unknown December 25, 1989 January 2, 1990 December 1989 Sophia Derbyshire Edna Jackson Edna F. Neff Mary Wallice Costa Mesa, CA Columbia, SC Yelm, WA Vero Beach, FL Date Unknown Date Unknown December 29, 1989 September 1989 Ruth Didier Eucles (Gus) Knight Theodore A. Peno Donel Washington Kettering, OH Richmond, VA Webster, NH Gainesville, FL February 22, 1990 March 12, 1983 January 8, 1990 Moses McClendon Kenneth Rabbani John Yocum Cheraw, SC Artington, VA Marietta, GA January 1990 October 25, 1989 March 4, 1990 �[Page 24]24 / The American Baha’{ / April 1990

LET THE LIGHT OF ~ PEACE SHINE

Bahd’ls from the Denver/Boulder, marking the anniversary of the birth of Colorado, area prepare to take part Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. last January 14 in the annual parade

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

April 21-22: Fund-raiser for the Arc, sponsored by the Spiritual Assemblies of Coral Springs and South Broward County, Florida. Special guests the Hand of the Cause of God William Sears and Marguerite Sears. For information, phone Joanne Sabet, 305-345-9281, or Roya Fallah, 305-384 6556.

April 26-29: 81st Baha’{ National Convention, Baha’{ House of Worship, Wilmette, Illinois. Seating by advance reservation only. April 28: Ridvan celebration, Louhelen Baha’{ School.

May 4-6: Parent-Child Conference (with Counselor Robert Harris), Louhelen Baha’{ 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.

May 25-28: Regional Baha'i Youth Conference, Huntington, West Virginia. Theme: ‘‘Be the Lighters of Unlit Candies." Speakers: Jack Lenz, Tahereh Ahdiech, Soheil Bushrui, Fred Meyers. Cost: $85 per person. For information, contact Roya Dorost, Montgomery, WV 25136, or phone 304-442-4828.

May 25-28: Spiritual Renewal Retreat for Couples, Bosch Baha"{ School. Sessions on love, marriage and parenting conducted by Dan Popov and Linda Kavelin Popov. Text: ‘‘Family Life,"’ compilation of the Universal House of Justice. Registration: Bosch Baha’{ School, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (phone 408-323-3387).

June 1-3: Young Adult Conference, ‘‘Rendezvous with the Future: An Exploration of the Baha’i Message in Today’s World."’ Bosch Baha’ School, Santa Cruz, California. For registration information, write to Bosch School, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, or phone Hooshyar Naraghi, 415-324-1055.

June 14-17: South Carolina Baha’{ Summer School, Louis G. Gregory Institute, Hemingway. Theme: ‘‘South Carolina Count-Down: The Remaining 677 Days of the Six Year Plan.’’ For information, phone the Institute, 803-558-5093, or Moses.and Ursula Richardson, 803-332-2411.

June 14-17: Bahd'{ International Chimese Symposium, Kingston, Jamuaica,

June 22-24; Fifth annual Meeting and Conference of the Baha’! Justice Society, Wilmette, [linois. Speakers to include Hugh Chance, a member of the Universal House of Justice; Alan Smith, a member of the Continental Board of Counselors for the Americas; and Judge Dorothy W. Nelson, chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly. For information, contact Ted Amsden, P.O. Box 43142, Renaissance Center, Detroit, MI 48243, or phone 313-568-6554.

June 25-28; First Sino-American Conference on Women’s Issues, Beijing, People’s Republic of China. For information, phone Global Interactions Inc., 602-272-3438.

June 28-July 14: Baha’i Outdoor Leaders’ Course (grades 11-13), Camp Kamal, Wisconsin. For information or to register, write to James Lewicki, Camp Kamal director, Viroqua, WI 54665, or phone 608-637-2743. Camp Kamal is sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Beloit, Wisconsin.

June 29-July 5: Seventh annual Baha’i Teacher-Training Conference, Louhelen Baha’i School. For information, phone Karen Olin, 805-466-1077, or the Louhelen School, 313-653-5033.

July 6-11: Louhelen School session, ‘‘Lifetime of Service,"’ Special emphasis on families with program for children.

July 7-14: Wilderness Base Camp (grades 5-8), Leadership Development Camp (grades 9-10), Camp Kamal, Wisconsin. For information or to register, write to James Lewicki, Camp Kamal director, Viroqua, WI 54665, or phone 608-637-2743. Camp Kamal is sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Beloit, Wisconsin.

July 14-19: Session on the environment, Bosch Baha’i School. Baha'is who are professionals, students or active volunteers in environmental issues are invited to submit one-page summaries of papers for possible presentation at the session. Send to: Program Director, Bosch Baha’{ School, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060. For program information, phone 805-933-1253. To register, send a deposit of $35 to the school address or register by charge card, 408-423-3387.

August 4-6: American Indian Pioneering Institute; location to be announced.

August 10-12:Caribbean Youth Conference, Barbados.

September 1-2: Pioneer Training Institute, Louis Gregory Baha’{ Center, Hemingway, South Carolina.

October/November; Pioneer Training Institute, Green Acre Baha’ School, Eliot, Maine (exact dates to be announced).

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