The American Bahá’í/Volume 23/Issue 10/Text

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[Page 1]

Iran Times ad deplores persecutions

On May 25 the Iran Times newspaper, published in English in Washington, D.C., included an advertisement signed by 52 professors, mostly from American universities, deploring the execution of Bahman Samandari, an Iranian Bahá’í.

The statement reads in part: "We the undersigned, a group of concerned Iranian academics in North America and Europe, are deeply disturbed by the renewed execution of members of the Bahá’í religious minority in Iran and condemn this act of official lawlessness and brutality in the strongest possible terms."

The advertisement was initiated by non-Bahá’ís; however, about 10 percent of those who signed it are expatriate Iranian believers.

European Parliament supports rights for Iran's Bahá’ís

On June 10 the European Parliament approved a resolution that calls on the European Community to "support the Bahá’í struggle for the right to practice their religious beliefs without fear of persecution or execution," and on the government of Iran to ensure that "full human rights are granted to the Iranian Bahá’í community."

The full text of the resolution is as follows:

"The European Parliament:

"A. recalling its concern for human rights for all mankind and for religious toleration,

"B. having regard to the continuing persecution of the Bahá’í community in Iran solely on the grounds of their religious beliefs,

"C. drawing attention to the execution of Mr. Bahman Samandari, a member of the Bahá’í faith, in Evin Prison in Tehran on 18 March and fearing that this may mark a return to the brutal persecution of the Bahá’ís, which disgraced the first decade of the Islamic Republic,

"D. noting that the Iranian government has publicly and repeatedly maintained that the Bahá’í community is not being persecuted in Iran, yet this brutal act demonstrates that the Bahá’ís continue to suffer at the hands of the Iranian authorities,

"1. Deplores the arbitrary execution of a member of the Bahá’í faith;

"2. Condemns religious and ethnic persecution, the use of torture, the application of the death penalty, imprisonment without charge and secret trials, all of which abuses are widespread in Iran;

FOCUS FOR ACTION: National Assembly sets in motion new phase to promote race unity

On June 4 the National Spiritual Assembly set in motion a nationwide plan of action for the Holy Year that draws upon the dynamic forces of change operating both within and outside the Bahá’í community, a plan that focuses on our remarkable mandate to prepare the American nation for its eventual role as spiritual leader of the planet.

THE STRATEGY, involving the consolidation of all energies and resources toward the goal of proclaiming the oneness of humankind, and placing special emphasis on the unique power of Bahá’u’lláh’s World Order to bring about peace and unity, comprises two aspects: the reorganization of our national Bahá’í administrative structure; and greatly intensified efforts at every level to promote the Bahá’í concept of race unity.

These changes mark the latest phase in a process that has been steadily gaining momentum since the publication by the National Spiritual Assembly of "The Vision of Race Unity" in April 1991 as the cornerstone of a national race unity campaign, the prosecution of which has been described by the Universal House of Justice as "a sacred task,... of critical importance to the Cause in America and to the ultimate success of your country in fulfilling the world-transforming mission foreshadowed for it in the...words of the beloved Master.".

The National Assembly's statement was issued at a critical time in the history of the Faith and of the world, as both began to feel the effects of "the burgeoning influence of Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation" which, in the words of the House of Justice, "seemed, with the imminence of the Holy Year, to have assumed the character of an onrushing wind blowing through the archaic structures of the old order, felling mighty pillars and clearing the ground for new concepts of social organizations."

At no time was the truth of that statement more apparent than during the recent troubles in Los Angeles and other cities, which led to a national outcry for a solution to the problem of racism—a cry that politicians and other leaders have been unable to answer.

THE UNIVERSAL House of Justice, reacting to news of the disturbances in our cities, sent a message to the National Spiritual Assembly dated May 11, which read in part:

"...we reiterate more strongly than before the encouragement we expressed for your campaign to combat racism in the United States. It is highly fitting that during this Holy Year, which marks the centenary of the ascension of the Manifestation of God Who made the oneness of humankind the pivotal principle and goal of His Faith, you should sally forth in a mighty effort to rally the forces which will in His Name and in obedience to His command assist in eradicating this evil from the fair name of your country...."

In mid-May the National Assembly met in Atlanta with representatives of 29 local Assemblies from that area, members of local Assemblies in 14 cities in which rioting had taken place, and members of the Continental Board of Counselors to discuss how Bahá’í communities had reacted to the riots and their aftermath, and to consult on courses of action that might be taken to present effectively Bahá’u’lláh’s healing Message to the people of America.

Pictured on Sheridan Road in Wilmette, Illinois, with the national Hazíratu’l-Quds in the background are some of the hundreds who took part in the annual walk for race unity June 14 sponsored by the Chicago-area North Shore Race Unity Task Force. Among those who walked alongside Bahá’ís and members of other groups were the mayor of Evanston and president of the Village of Wilmette.

Upsurge in activities across the country marks annual Race Unity Day observances by Bahá’ís

There has been a nationwide upsurge in recent weeks in Bahá’í efforts to promote the oneness of humanity. The new level of activity is in part a response to the national attention on the issue since the April riots; it also builds on the momentum generated by the release of the National Assembly's statement on race unity a year ago.

BOTH FACTORS have helped to draw attention on the part of individuals and groups of every description to the unifying principles of the Faith. In all areas of the country the Bahá’ís have enjoyed increased cooperation from churches, social organizations and government agencies. The Faith has been recognized by government officials in the form of awards and proclamations, and Bahá’í activities are receiving unprecedented media coverage.

William Davis, treasurer of the National Spiritual Assembly, commented on these developments:

"Although it is too soon to provide an exact number of race unity activities, all indications point to a degree of effort far surpassing anything we have yet seen. What is particularly encouraging is that they are not limited to any one milieu: from the smallest towns to the largest cities; among Hispanics, African-Americans, Asians and others; and in every social class from the lowest to the highest, the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh are being promulgated.

"What is more heartening is that the people are responding to the message. This is in part a result of the Los Angeles riots, but must also be attributed to the spiritual power that this Holy Year is charged with. Especially in smaller towns, traditionally more conservative, there has been a great deal of positive reaction. It would be difficult to overestimate the importance of teaching in those places, because when we make a stand [in a small town] everybody knows about it and nobody forgets.

"THE RESULTS of these efforts," he added, "are both immediate and long-range: first, they serve to increase the public's awareness of the nature and objectives of the Faith; second, they lead to... [Page 2]

New focus

received a great many recommendations and ideas from that conference and from many of its committees and agencies, then held two consecutive weekends of intensive consultation on the issues that had been raised. The result of that consultation was a decision to channel all national efforts in the coming year into one mission—the promotion of race unity.

In its June 4 announcement the National Assembly set a two-fold agenda for all Bahá’í communities and individuals in this country:

1. promoting race unity "in His Name and in obedience to His command"; and

2. supporting the Bahá’í World Congress, which is in itself a marvelous demonstration of the power of Bahá’u’lláh’s Covenant to establish the oneness of humanity.

IN ANNOUNCING the decision, Robert Henderson, secretary-general of the National Spiritual Assembly, said these goals are meant to complement the agenda for the Holy Year already given to the American community:

"All of the major points of the Holy Year agenda," he said, "deal with the concept of unity: the orientation of Bahá’í activities; our reflections on the life of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá; and our efforts toward spiritual growth—all of them, when considered in light of the Station of Bahá’u’lláh and the meaning of His Revelation, essentially have unity as their goal."

The National Spiritual Assembly, he continued, has its own plan of action including a number of specific measures to increase public awareness of the Bahá’í teachings on race. Among other things, the National Assembly decided to:

Publish an open letter to President Bush outlining what needs to be done to bring about racial unity in America. The letter was published in mid-June in The New York Times, the Los Angeles Times and The Washington Post, several days after it was received by the President.

Publish a second "open letter," this one to the American people, also setting forth the principles for achieving racial unity.

Issue a second statement on race unity, to be released in the near future. Central to this document will be a discussion of race unity in all its aspects and implications. Although more universal in scope than the first such message, it will nevertheless address itself to specific conditions in the U.S.

Pictured are Bahá’ís in Belle Glade, Florida, who attended a picnic at the Magdalene Carney Institute during a visit to that community in May by Tod Ewing (third from right in back row), a member of the National Spiritual Assembly.

The National Assembly has a number of other race unity initiatives in the early stages of development.

TO FACILITATE this nationwide campaign, the National Spiritual Assembly has undertaken an organizational restructuring that builds on the work of the past several years. It sees these moves not as a mere shuffling of responsibilities, but as the harbinger of a profound change in the way in which the Administrative Order operates in this country, anticipating a time in the near future when extraordinary demands will be made on the community's resources as entry by troops becomes a reality.

Dr. Henderson, referring to the "onrushing wind" of change, noted that the Bahá’ís are not immune to its influence.

"In the Ridván 1992 message," he pointed out, "the House of Justice wrote that even the Community of the Most Great Name is feeling the rigorous effects of this quickening wind as it ventilates the modes of thought of us all, renewing, clarifying and amplifying our perspectives as to the purpose of the Order of Bahá’u’lláh in the wake of humanity's suffering and turmoil."

"We must therefore accept and be grateful for the chance to improve our administrative structure, so that we may be ready for whatever the future holds."

One of the most important aspects of this process of "ventilation" and "clarification" was the decision taken by the National Assembly to disband temporarily all national committees until a more streamlined and unified structure could be put in place. In the interim, special task forces will take over essential projects.

Meanwhile, the National Center will undergo changes designed to make it more supportive of efforts around the country.

DR. HENDERSON emphasized that the recent Congressional resolution calling for the emancipation of the Bahá’í community in Iran underscores the fact that the Faith has indeed emerged from obscurity. He added that we are now beginning to emerge as leaders in the arena of race unity, citing specific examples such as:

the acceptance by the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta of the National Spiritual Assembly's proposal for a joint study of race unity in conjunction with the Center's Atlanta Project, which is similar to the "Models of Race Unity" report issued earlier this year by the National Spiritual Assembly and the Chicago Human Relations Commission;

the acceptance of a similar proposal by Mayor Tom Bradley of Los Angeles;

offers of funding to help publicize the statement on race unity from several major humanitarian foundations;

the many and diverse race unity projects being carried out either wholly or in part by Bahá’ís in cities from coast to coast; and

work in progress toward establishing not-for-profit consulting groups on race unity under the auspices of the National Spiritual Assembly.

"We can already see," said Dr. Henderson, "that if the pace of Bahá’í involvement continues to accelerate, we can soon envision great demands being placed on our resources. Now is the time for unified action. Now is the time to contribute our ideas, our means, our energies in the promulgation of the Bahá’í teachings.

"No other voice in this country," he said, "whether black or white, has the credibility or the plan to lead this nation in achieving unity. Let us 'sally forth' as we have been called upon to do by the Universal House of Justice, and arise to pay the purest form of homage to Bahá’u’lláh—that is, action!"

National Spiritual Assembly's development initiatives show steady progress in wake of recent Town Meetings

The National Spiritual Assembly's development initiatives, discussed at Town Meetings in a dozen states in the final months of last year, are progressing steadily.

ANALYSIS by Bahá’í National Center staff and members of the community is under way in a number of areas. Task Forces have been appointed by the National Assembly to study programs in the financial services field and in the area of asset management.

A recent organizational meeting was held at the offices of the Bahá’í International Community in New York City for the newly-formed Mottahedeh Development Corporation, successor group to the New Era Foundation for International Development.

Finally, an additional Task Force is being established to do the initial organizational work behind the creation of a race unity consulting group. The goal of this last group will be to assist, on behalf of the National Spiritual Assembly, private and public bodies to apply the Bahá’í principle of the oneness of humankind in government and in the workplace.

These further steps are the latest in a phased process that will gradually invite the help and participation of growing numbers of believers.

"We need to widen the circle," said William Davis, treasurer of the National Spiritual Assembly. He added that there are friends who have a real contribution to make to the programs now under consideration, but the National Assembly does not always know who they are or what their qualifications might be.

These efforts to foster the community's development, Mr. Davis emphasized, need all the talents and all the support the community can give so the national institution's capacity to apply these principles at every level will be greatly enhanced.

"OUR essential challenge," Mr. Davis pointed out, "will be to harness the force of our unity so as to build a community whose strength, both spiritually and materially, will be increased a hundred-fold. People in every part of the globe and at every level of society are now asking to see the models of our Faith in action."

Circumstances permitting, these task forces will present their recommendations to the National Spiritual Assembly within 60 days, and a national development conference, based on this preliminary work, will be convened in the fall to further broaden the discussion.

The American Bahá’í is published 19 times a year by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201. Second class postage paid at Evanston, IL, and additional mailing offices. ISSN Number: 1062-1113. Executive editor: Jack Bowers. Associate Editor: Ken Bowers. Art director: Scot Corrie. The American Bahá’í welcomes news, letters and other items of interest from individuals and the various institutions of the Bahá’í Faith. Articles should be clear and concise; color or black-and-white glossy photographs should be included whenever possible. Please address all materials and correspondence to The Editor, The American Bahá’í, Wilmette, IL 60091. Postmaster: Send address changes to Management Information Systems, Bahá’í National Center, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201. Copyright © 1992 by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States. World rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A.

Parliament

"3. Deplores the action of the Iranian authorities which permitted the arbitrary execution of Mr. Samandari to take place in contravention of all accepted standards of justice and human rights;

"4. Sincerely hopes that this execution does not signal the resumption of the execution of Bahá’ís in Iran for their religious beliefs;

"5. Calls on the Community to support the Bahá’í struggle for the right to practice their religious beliefs without fear of persecution or execution;

"6. Calls on the Iranian government to ensure that such acts will cease immediately and that full human rights are granted to the Iranian Bahá’í community;

"7. Asks the Commission, in its commercial negotiations with Iran, to include in any agreement reached a very strong clause requiring respect for human rights with an option to suspend any such agreement in the event of violation;

"8. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Foreign Ministers meeting in EPC, the Commission, the governments of the Twelve and of Iran, and the Secretary-General of the United Nations." [Page 3]

Bahá’ís take part in UN Economic Commission for Latin America

When the 24th session of the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) met April 15 in Santiago, Chile, a Bahá’í delegation was among the representatives of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) attending.

There to observe, interact with other NGOs, and meet with UN delegates were Alejandro Reid, head of the Bahá’í delegation; Paula Siegel, secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly of Chile; Jaime Duhart; Virginia Montejo, head of the External Affairs Office of the National Spiritual Assembly of Chile; and Daniel Wegener, representative to the UN for the Bahá’í International Community (BIC).

ALTHOUGH there was little interaction between NGO representatives and government delegations, the Bahá’í representatives were able to make contact with delegates from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Antigua & Barbuda, Guyana, Nicaragua, Panama and the U.S.

In every case, delegates were given a packet of information that included issues of the Bahá’í periodical One Country; a copy of "The Promise of World Peace"; the Survey of Bahá’í Education Programs; Bahá’í statements on the environment, and an introductory pamphlet on the Faith produced in Spain.

Immediately following the ECLAC sessions, a regional seminar, sponsored by UNESCO and IDRC (International Development Resource Center), was held in Santiago. Mr. Wegener, representing the NGO Committee on UNICEF, and Odile Moreau, president of the NGO/UNESCO Standing Committee in Paris, were the only NGO representatives invited to the seminar. Mr. Wegener and Ms. Moreau are co-convenors of the International Co-ordinating Committee for the Education for All Network (EFA), a system-wide UN network for the promotion of universal education.

The purpose of the meeting was to promote research on basic learning needs in Latin America. Working papers on decentralized administration, educational inputs, and curriculum reform were discussed, and a book, which could be useful to Bahá’í educators and schools in Latin America, will be published on the results of the meeting.

Mr. Wegener and Helen Mirkovitch de Sanchez of Costa Rica were the Bahá’í representatives at a regional consultation on education for all held in late April in Punta de Tralca, Chile.

The meeting was sponsored by the EFA Network and a well-known Catholic NGO, CIDE, which has affiliates throughout Latin America and is highly respected and well-funded by national and international donors. Although the BIC is not as well known, the Bahá’í representatives made many valuable contacts and managed to raise the issue of the status of women and to have it included as a priority concern in plans of action.

The meeting adopted a theoretical statement with a set of recommendations for future action on national consultations, research on use of the media, women's issues, and building new partnerships.

WHILE in Chile, Mr. Wegener visited the Temuco area where most of the Bahá’ís and their local Assemblies are located. After speaking at several local Bahá’í gatherings, having three interviews on the Bahá’í radio station, and consulting with members of several Bahá’í institutions, he returned to the U.S.

XIV PERIOD PESESIONES ARIL

Members of the Bahá’í delegation to the Economic and Social Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean leave the Foreign Affairs building in Santiago, Chile, where the opening ceremonies were held. Pictured (left to right) are Paula Siegel, secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly of Chile; Jamie Duhart; Daniel Wegener, representative to the UN for the Bahá’í International Community; and Virginia Montejo of the Brazilian Bahá’í Office of External Affairs. Not pictured is the head of the Bahá’í delegation, Alejandro Reid.

"The participation of Bahá’í representatives in these regional meetings in Latin America is not only an important means of increasing the visibility and prestige of the Faith," he said, "but the acceptance of Bahá’í principles introduced in the consultations augurs well for the future of the region."

WORLD CONGRESS YOUTH MOVEMENT FORUM

"They're gonna look back, your grandkids are gonna look back, they're gonna come to us and ask us: 'What was it like to live at a time when the entire history of the world changed?'"—Foad, age 17

The Bahá’í World Congress has been described by Glenford Mitchell, a member of the Universal House of Justice, as a time when a "joyful noise" will be made in New York City.

From November 23-26, tens of thousands of Bahá’ís from all over the world will gather at the invitation of the Universal House of Justice to celebrate the Holy Year and the 100th anniversary of the inauguration of the Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh.

We are probably too close to recognize fully the significance of the World Congress. The honor of such a gift is indescribable.

When considering an event of such magnitude, there are probably many questions about what is going on. Although we may never fully understand God's Most Holy Plan, it is necessary for us to study the Writings and the messages of the Universal House of Justice, to better understand what is happening around us.

Here are four commonly asked questions that may be on your mind:

1. How does the World Congress fit into the Holy Year?

The Congress is one of the twin anniversaries that will take place during the Holy Year which began at Ridván 1992 and will end at Ridván 1993. The House of Justice has referred to it as one of the two major events of the Holy Year. The other was the gathering of believers from around the world in the Holy Land in May to commemorate the ascension of Bahá’u’lláh.

2. Why is it called a Congress and not a conference?

We have conferences all the time, but Congresses are unique points and high water marks in social evolution. The first Bahá’í World Congress took place in London in 1963 at the end of the Ten Year World Crusade, 100 years after Bahá’u’lláh’s public declaration in the Garden of Ridván. The second World Congress will commemorate the passing of Bahá’u’lláh in 1892 and the inauguration of His Covenant.

3. Why are we having the World Congress in New York City?

When ‘Abdu’l-Bahá was in New York City in 1912, He declared New York the City of the Covenant and Himself as the Center of that Covenant. It was in New York City that the Master "revealed the implications of His station as the appointed Center of the Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh." (The Universal House of Justice, Ridván 1992)

4. Who will be there?

Bahá’ís from all over the world, described by the Universal House of Justice as "the hosts of Bahá." The Congress offers a unique opportunity in our young lives to be in the presence of our Bahá’í family from every corner of the planet.

In its Ridván 1992 message, the Universal House of Justice writes that the hosts of Bahá at the Congress will (1) register their regard for the Covenant bequeathed by Bahá’u’lláh; (2) evoke the memory of Him Who was appointed its Center; and (3) demonstrate the power of unity that the Covenant is meant to ensure to all the peoples of the world.

Complementing the Congress will be a unique three-day experience for young participants from 12-24 years of age. This special program, the Bahá’í World Congress Youth Movement Forum, will reflect the truly international nature of the Congress and highlight the legacy of youth in their "recognition of Bahá’u’lláh and response to His Revelation" throughout the history of the Faith.

Young people will attend both the main Congress sessions and the Youth Movement Forum program. In an awe-inspiring three days, youth will experience, as part of their spiritual journey through the Congress, a wide range of activities including formal presentations, study sessions, and an exposition of service opportunities.

The World Congress Youth Movement Forum is designed to be a profound personal and collective experience for Bahá’í youth, one that will empower them to engage actively in the articulation and application of the spiritual teachings of the Faith to the needs of an ailing humanity, and to the continued enlistment under the Banner of Bahá’u’lláh of an army of youth committed to the spiritualization of the planet.

We want very much to encourage dialogue. If you have any thoughts or questions about the World Congress or any plans you are engaged in in your communities, please contact the Bahá’í World Congress Youth Movement Forum, Bahá’í International Community, 866 United Nations Plaza, Suite 119, New York, NY 10017 (phone 212-486-0560).

Chinese newsletter

Guang Ming, a newsletter about Chinese teaching, is produced quarterly by the National Chinese Teaching Committee. Anyone who would like to receive a (free) copy may contact the secretary of the Committee at the Bahá’í National Center, 708-869-9039, ext. 231. [Page 4]

Pioneering: news from the front lines

We share with you excerpts from letters recently received by the Office of Pioneering. These letters share the spirit and excitement of this unique time in our history. The first is from Peggy (Marguerite) True, Knight of Bahá’u’lláh with her husband, George, to the Canary Islands, and the second from Marjorie Giorgi who also began her pioneering experience during the Ten Year Crusade.

"...Lately I’ve been ‘overfloored’ with the greatness of this Revelation. I doubt if any of the Bahá’ís can imagine the great bounty they have of recognizing the Manifestation which is not only the fulfillment of all Revelations since Adam, but the Great Manifestation under which all Others will reveal Teachings for the next 500,000 years!

"...A few hours ago, I returned from part of my ‘special project.’ As you know, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá yearned to go to the valleys, the mountains, the seas and the prairies and shout the Greatest Name, but as He could not do so, He begged the believers to do it in His Name. (America’s Spiritual Mission). In fact, it’s in the Tablet He revealed in which He mentions the Canary Islands.

"Well, whenever I can, I drive or walk to another part of Gomera and sing the Greatest Name on His behalf. I remember Ruhiyyih Khánum saying that sometimes she was so ill or tired she felt she couldn’t go on, and that it was only because of His plea that she was able to go on. So, as long as I am able (will be 80 in October), and as long as He wills, I hope to do this and feel that the ‘hard ground’ will be warmed by the Greatest Name, so that the ‘receptive seeds’ will burst forth and bloom!

"I did this when in Tenerife many times, and am continuing here. I think the day will come when the believers will take the map (like the Guardian did), and divide it into regions and zones and streets and country areas, and invite the friends to pick a spot and walk there reciting the Greatest Name. He just asked us to go and say the Greatest Name. I think one of the reasons we aren’t advancing as we should is simply because we haven’t done this, which is the first step! ..."

"...The rewards, the manifold blessings and bounties received in serving the Blessed Beauty wherever we are on this earth are overwhelming. I believe in a large measure on how we assess our ‘material thinking’ and priorities. Last year my U.S. financial adviser told me quite clearly, that, long-term, I cannot afford to stay here.

"The Bahá’í analysis is called up from the words of the beloved Guardian ‘to remain at our posts’ and that is the goal. And when I read the story of the life of Martha Root, it is clear that everything is possible and attainable in His service independent of all material considerations.

"As a consequence of that determination, an Assembly has been reconstituted and the remarkable upsurge in the teaching work is beyond belief. Fresh doors have opened for the advancement of the Cause here in the far north of Scotland with the infusion of new energy amongst the believers in this very traditional culture.

"The Bahá’í community has existed in this area for several decades, but little deepening and even less study of the Administration has been done, but together we are changing the scene in preparation for the Holy Year. It’s all so exciting!..."

Townshend Bahá’í School to open in Czechoslovakia

On September 9, the Townshend International Bahá’í school will open its doors in Czechoslovakia. The school is situated in the vicinity of Ceske Budejovice, a small town in Southern Bohemia, a scenic lake area bordering on Austria and Germany.

In close collaboration with other Bahá’í schools and experienced Bahá’í educators, a university preparatory curriculum is offered, enhanced by global consciousness and self-actualization in an atmosphere of loving care and high moral standards. The goal of the school is to bring forth mature individuals prepared to contribute to a dynamic world community.

In the first year the school will start with the 7th, 8th and 9th grades, and in successive years expand to offer an international baccalaureate diploma.

Tuition and board for the academic year have been set at DM 9800 (appr. U.S. $6,000.); financial circumstances will be taken into consideration and a certain number of scholarships will be available.

If you have any questions about student placement please contact: Tamara Kirilcuk (Fax: 0042-7-211056) or Ramona Reyhani (Tel: 0042-2-3115151) before the end of June when they move to the school offices.

TRAVELING TEACHING CALENDAR

BRAZIL: Rio de Janeiro-June 1-12, Global Forum (UNCED-Earth Summit '92).

HUNGARY: Present-August 1992, non-stop proclamation; teaching-deepening projects. July 1-15- International Summer Projects I; July 16-31-International Summer Project II; August 1-8-Hungarian Summer School; August 11-24- International Summer Project III.

UNITED KINGDOM: Clifton, York-August 10-15, Music and Arts Festival to celebrate the Centenary of the Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh.

For more information, contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039).

China: The Bahá’í Committee for China, a committee appointed by the Universal House of Justice, has asked that all those who are able consider serving as traveling visitors to China. If you are interested, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 708-869-9039.

ONGOING TRAVELING TEACHING OPPORTUNITIES

AUSTRALIA; ALBANIA; BANGLADESH; BELIZE; BULGARIA; BURKINA FASO; CAMBODIA; CHINA; CISKEI; COLOMBIA; COOK ISLANDS; COSTA RICA; DOMINICAN REPUBLIC; EAST GERMANY; EQUATORIAL GUINEA; FIJI; FRENCH POLYNESIA; GAMBIA; GERMANY; GUATEMALA; GUADELOUPE; GUINEA BISSAU; GUYANA; HAITI; HONG KONG; HUNGARY; ICELAND; INDIA; IRELAND; ITALY; MALAYSIA; MALTA; MOZAMBIQUE; NEPAL; NEW CALEDONIA; PAKISTAN; PANAMA; THE PHILIPPINES; PORTUGAL, PUERTO RICO; ST. VINCENT & THE GRENADINES; SAMOA; SIBERIA; SIERRA LEONE; SWEDEN; TAIWAN; THAILAND; TONGA; TRANSKEI; TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO; TUVALU; UGANDA; UNITED KINGDOM; VANUATU; WEST LEEWARD ISLANDS; YUGOSLAVIA; ZAMBIA.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT THE OFFICE OF PIONEERING, BAHÁ’Í NATIONAL CENTER, WILMETTE, IL 60091 (PHONE 708-869-9039).

6 YEAR PLAN U.S. PIONEERING GOALS

AFRICA (F) Burundi ................. 1 (E) Ciskei ................. 2 (E) The Gambia (Preferably Persians) ................. 2 (E) Kenya (Preferably Outside Nairobi) ................. 1 (E) Nigeria ................. 3 (E) Sierra Leone ................. 2 (E) South Africa ................. 2 (E) St. Helena ................. 2 (E) Namibia ................. 2 (E) Transkei ................. 2 (E) Uganda (One to teach the Faith in the university; one doctor) ................. 2 (E) Venda ................. 2 Total for Africa ................. 23

AMERICAS (E) Bahamas (North Abaco, Eleuthera, Andros, Cat Island, Long Island) ................. 3 (E) Barbados (Employment opportunities for a dentist) ................. 1 (E) Belize (For radio, consolidation, development projects; skills for the National Secretariat) ................. 1 (P) Brazil (Preferably for Amazon project, possibly of Persian background) ................. 1 (S) Chile (Juan Fernandez Islands, preferably a Spanish-speaking couple) ................. 2 (E) Dominica ................. 2 (F) French Guiana (Preferably Persian) ................. 3 (E) Grenada ................. 2 (F) Guadeloupe (Opportunities for English teachers) ................. 2 (E) Guyana (Preferably East Indians and Blacks) ................. 2 (S) Honduras (Bay Islands, Yoro, Colon; preferably self-supporting) ................. 2 (E) Jamaica (Preferably self-supporting for rural areas to work in village development) ................. 4 (F) Martinique (French-speaking youth to enroll in university or with musical talent) ................. 1 (S) Nicaragua (Preferably Persian) ................. 3 (E) St. Lucia (Skills in community consolidation) ................. 4 (E) St. Vincent & Grenadines ................. 2 (D) Suriname (Preferably Persian) ................. 2 (E) Trinidad & Tobago (Preferably Persian) ................. 2 (S) Uruguay ................. 2 (S) Venezuela ................. 2 (E) Virgin Islands, British ................. 2 Total for Americas ................. 45

ASIA (E) India ................. 2 (E) Malaysia (To help develop public relations experts) ................. 1 (E) Nepal ................. 2 (M) Taiwan (Chinese Background) ................. 1 Total for Asia ................. 6

AUSTRALASIA (E) Marshall Islands (To help with administration) ................. 1 Total for Australasia ................. 1

EUROPE (P) Portugal (Couples for goal areas outside greater Lisbon, preferably Portugese or Spanish-speaking) ................. 2 Total for Europe ................. 2

Total goals assigned: 77 Pioneers to goal countries: 250 Pioneers to non-goals: 438 Pioneers filling goals for other countries: 18 Total Pioneers sent: 706

Language Key: (E) English (D) Dutch (F) French (M) Mandarin (P) Portuguese (S) Spanish [Page 5]

Race unity

from page 1

contact with people who investigate the Faith and accept it, and with groups and organizations with similar goals, thereby helping to consolidate the progressive forces at work in the world. In every case the potential benefit for humanity is great.”

Mr. Davis estimated that some 600 or more separate activities were held to celebrate Race Unity Day this year, besides many other events designed to promote the Bahá’í teachings on unity. The following examples show the variety and spirit of these efforts:

ALABAMA—The mayor of Selma attended that city’s third annual Race Unity picnic, proclaiming the day Race Unity Day. In a corollary activity, the Bahá’ís sent copies of the National Assembly’s statement on race unity and the paper, “Healing of Racism: ‎Eduation’s Education’s‎ Role” to nine Selma public school principals. Two of the principals expressed deep gratitude and volunteered to share the materials with all the teachers in their schools.

In Jasper, copies of the race unity statement were distributed to the members of the City Council, the city and county Boards of Education, the news media, and 95 local churches.

ARKANSAS—A picnic in Rogers, scheduled for Race Unity Day, was rained out; instead, people were invited to meet at the home of one of the members of the District Teaching Committee. Thirty people came to the meeting, 10 of whom were not Bahá’ís. At this gathering it was decided to have a race unity picnic every other month.

CONNECTICUT—200 people, half of whom were not Bahá’ís, attended a Race Unity Picnic held in Hartford. The mayor of Hartford also took part. The Bahá’ís have planned four follow-up firesides for the event.

FLORIDA—A Race Unity Day march held in Hillsborough County drew 1,000 people, and was endorsed by the National Conference of Christians and Jews, the Chamber of Commerce, the County Commissioners, the Tampa City Council and others. Governor Lawton Chiles was unable to accept the invitation to attend, but sent a letter of support and the state legislature declared June 14 Race Unity Day. Members of the Ku Klux Klan and the Pan African movement attended the walk to cause disunity. There was no negative interaction, however; at one point both groups joined the walk. An article about the event appeared in a local paper.

GEORGIA—The Bahá’ís of West Cobb County sponsored the first Race Unity Day observance in the town of Kennesaw. About 50 people attended a public meeting that featured Bahá’í and non-Bahá’í speakers, including a school superintendent and a member of the county Board of Education. A proclamation from the mayor was read making June 14 Race Unity Day in perpetuity. A story about the event appeared the following day in a local newspaper.

INDIANA—Sixty people including eight non-Bahá’ís took part in the Race Unity Day picnic in Indianapolis, which was followed by discussion groups on “Models of Race Unity.”

IOWA—The Bahá’ís of Cedar Rapids are working toward the goal of mailing “The Promise of World Peace” to every household in the city; 7,000 have been mailed so far. The community also presented the mayor and city council with copies of the race unity statement, and sponsored a youth forum on race unity with high school students as speakers.

On June 13, Bahá’ís in Davenport had an information booth at the Intercultural Celebration and Black Freedom Day. The next day they hosted a public meeting and pot luck dinner in celebration of Race Unity Day.

One hundred people, only 20 of whom were Bahá’ís, attended the Race Unity Day picnic in Des Moines. Two television stations and a newspaper covered the event; one of the programs presented what the Bahá’ís were doing as a solution to recent tensions in Des Moines. Local Bahá’ís had appeared on two television programs prior to Race Unity Day to discuss the event and the Bahá’í perspective on race unity.

KANSAS—The Bahá’ís of Topeka took part in local Juneteenth Day activities for the fifth consecutive year. As in past years, the only white people who attended were Bahá’ís. The friends are asked to provide ice water and are allowed to have pamphlets on the Faith available for distribution. Since January the community has distributed more than 1,000 copies of the race unity statement and the statement on Bahá’u’lláh.

KENTUCKY—The Mayor of Hopkinsville, who was recently presented with the race unity statement, has asked the Bahá’ís there to take part in establishing summer youth activities focusing on unity. Members of Bridges, a Bahá’í institute for the healing of racism, have been involved in local race unity efforts.

MINNESOTA—During the past two years Bahá’í efforts to promote the oneness of mankind in Bemidji have attracted the attention of its citizens. An outgrowth of Bahá’í efforts is a civic organization called the Circle of Many Cultures. This group sponsors regular activities focusing on the elimination of racism and the oneness of mankind. The race unity statement has been disseminated through this organization.

The Bahá’ís of St. Paul recently took part in a program for the Environmental Sabbath. Bahá’í prayers were offered and the Bahá’í Youth Workshop performed a race unity dance. The following week the Bahá’ís held a Race Unity Day celebration in which the Interfaith Council participated. The mayor sent a letter in honor of the occasion.

MISSOURI—The “Race Unity Focus Group,” a teaching institute in St. Louis, organized a Race Unity Day picnic that drew 150 people, 50 of whom were not Bahá’ís. The institute followed up with a Unity Feast on June 23.

NEBRASKA—The “Power of Unity” teaching institute organized its third annual Race Unity Day parade and picnic in Omaha; this year there was also an art show on the theme of race unity. Thirty of the 100 attendees were not Bahá’ís. The event was publicized on television and radio in advance and received TV coverage.

OKLAHOMA—The Bahá’ís of Oklahoma City have weekly dialogue sessions on racism at the Bahá’í Center. The meetings are open to the public.

SOUTH CAROLINA—Race Unity Day was observed at the Louis G. Gregory Bahá’í Institute in Hemingway, along with a celebration of Louis Gregory’s birthday. About 150 people attended the event. After the fellowship portion two people became Bahá’ís.

Young performers spell out their ‘message’ during a show that followed the third annual Walk for Race Unity in Evanston and Wilmette, Illinois. The June 14 event was sponsored by the North Shore Race Unity Task Force.

SOUTH DAKOTA—Race Unity Day activities have attracted the attention of local media in Rapid City; the Bahá’ís were offered free TV time to inform the community of this year’s Race Unity Day picnic, which drew 30 Bahá’ís and 20 guests. Positive contacts have also been made with the mayor and city council.

TENNESSEE—The Memphis Institute for the Healing of Racism, the M.K. Gandhi Institute and the Human Services Co-op of Memphis State University sponsored a conference June 13 at MSU on “The Challenge of Unity: Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges.”

TEXAS—The Bahá’ís of Austin presented Governor Richards with the race unity statement on June 18. At her request, she was also given a report on local race unity activities in which the Bahá’ís are involved.

The Dallas Institute for the Healing of Racism has been holding weekly dialogue sessions for the past year at the Martin Luther King Center. The Institute also sponsors picnics and video nights to discuss race related issues. Sixty people attended this year’s Race Unity Day parade, sponsored by the Bahá’í community of Dallas.

VIRGINIA—The Bahá’ís of Fauquier County invited the local NAACP chapter to take part in this year’s Race Unity Day activities. Three hundred people attended, more than half of whom were not Bahá’ís.

A teaching ‎institue institute‎ in Fairfax County has been giving out the race unity statement door-to-door in apartment and townhouse complexes. Members of the ‎institue institute‎, which includes youth and children, report high receptivity to the Bahá’í message among all types of people. The institute holds regular firesides and monthly race unity celebrations in a local park. The Bahá’í community is working with the Human Relations Committee and the School Board, both of which have been presented with the race unity statement.

WISCONSIN—A series of panel discussions, formal dinners and open forums on race unity in Green Bay has attracted the attention of the mayor, the chief of police, religious leaders and civic organizations. The United Way has publicly recommended that people support the Bahá’í efforts to foster race unity.

Several civic and government organizations took part in this year’s Race Unity Day walk and picnic in Milwaukee, including the Police Department, an ambulance company, the Crisis hotline and a shelter for the homeless. The Bahá’ís set up a booth at the picnic site where literature on the Faith was distributed to many of the 1,000 people who stopped by. A representative from the mayor’s office also read a proclamation in honor of the occasion. The Bahá’í is followed up with a fireside.

Also of special importance are the many race unity activities being undertaken on American Indian Reservations, especially in Arizona, New Mexico, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Oregon and North Carolina. In some cases these involve public events, and in others, such as the Native American Bahá’í Institute in Houck, Arizona, service projects and schools where people of all kinds come together in real and all too rare demonstrations of unity in action.

The people of America are searching for an effective voice for racial harmony. One of the most important indications of this is the amount of media attention Bahá’í activities are receiving.

During the Six Year Plan an average of 3,800 newspaper articles on the Faith appeared per year. In March and April of this year more than 1,100 items were printed in which the Faith was mentioned, compared to approximately 600 the year before. The numbers for May and June will not be final until well into July, but they appear to be exceeding March and April figures.

The type of coverage is changing as well, with many more in-depth articles about the Faith, pointing to the time when the Bahá’í will emerge as the acknowledged leaders in the area of racial understanding.

Special Visit

It’s not too late to register for this summer’s second Bahá’í House of Worship Special Visit Program! The deadline for this special family program is August 1.

For information about the program and how to register, contact the Bahá’í House of Worship Activities Office, Special Visit Program, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-256-4400).

KALIMÁT B.E. 149 / JULY 13, 1992 [Page 6]Nightingale Books, an imprint of the Bahá’í Publishing Trust of the United Kingdom, is a series of quality editions of the writings of Bahá’u’lláh, launched to commemorate the centenary of his passing. Full-color illustrations make these volumes ideal gifts.

The Hidden Words

by Bahá’u’lláh HC $14.95 SC $9.95

Brief and stirring epigrams express the essential message at the heart of all religion—God’s eternal love for the human race. Bahá’u’lláh described The Hidden Words as “the inner essence” of the Prophets, clothed in “the garment of brevity.” According to Shoghi Effendi, they rank next to The Kitáb-i-Íqán and hold a position of “unsurpassed preeminence” among Bahá’u’lláh’s ethical writings.

5-¼" x 6-⅞", 112pp., introduction, illustrations, and brief biography of Bahá’u’lláh Nightingale Books

The Seven Valleys

by Bahá’u’lláh HC $14.95 SC $9.95

The intriguing and symbolic tale of the soul’s journey towards union with its Creator, through the Valleys of Search; Love; Knowledge; Unity; Contentment; Wonderment; to True Poverty and Absolute Nothingness. The summit of mystical composition, building upon the themes of the popular thirteenth century Sufi classic, The Conference of the Birds.

5-¼" x 6-⅞", 128pp., introduction, illustrations, brief biography of Bahá’u’lláh, references Nightingale Books

The Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh

by Adib Taherzadeh HC $39.95

The Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh is a unique and priceless heritage, unprecedented in past Dispensations. It carries within itself enormous potentialities for the future in the unfolding of Bahá’u’lláh’s new world order and ultimately the Golden Age of humankind.

This book provides material for the study of the Covenant. The eternal relationship of the human soul to its God is expressed today in faithfulness to the revelation of God’s will for humanity through Bahá’u’lláh, the Universal Manifestation. Mr. Taherzadeh refrained from discussing the Covenant in his series entitled The Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh. Now, we have a wonderful tool for deepening our understanding of the instrument through which God’s will is expressed and His blessings are channeled.

The Kitáb-i-‘Ahd, Bahá’u’lláh’s own Will and Testament, and the Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá are quoted in full in this volume, and the historical events they refer to are explained.

6-¼" x 9-½", 504 pp., 35 illustrations, table of contents, ‎forward foreword‎, introduction, prologue, appendices, bibliography, references, index George Ronald, Publisher

Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh

translated by Habib Taherzadeh with the assistance of a committee at the Bahá’í World Center PS $3.00 (net)

Sixteen of Bahá’u’lláh’s most significant and well-loved Tablets. Included is Bahá’u’lláh’s “Book of the Covenant,” which, along with ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Will and Testament, constitutes the “bedrock” of Bahá’u’lláh’s “entire administrative system” and the “stronghold of the faith of every Bahá’í.” ‘Abdu’l-Bahá has instructed us to read a number of the Tablets in this compilation “with close attention” so that we will “have a model of how to be and how to live” and may become “the center of attraction wherever people come together.” The Book of the Covenant, Shoghi Effendi says, will enable Bahá’ís to “withstand every test and the attacks of enemies outside the Faith.”

4-¼" x 7", 299 pp., table of contents, notes, index Bahá’í Publishing Trust of the U.S.

Models of Unity

Racial, Ethnic, and Religious a project of the Human Relations Foundation of Chicago and the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States SC $1.00 (net)

In the spring of 1991, the Human Relations Foundation of Chicago and the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States established a joint project to identify successful examples of interracial unity in the greater Chicago area. They were convinced that models of unity were common, but both organizations were concerned that reports of interracial violence, confrontation, and conflict, far exceeded those of interracial harmony, peaceful coexistence, and unity. The Models of Unity reports on their success in finding such examples in the Chicago area.

8-½" x 11", 15pp.

Bahá’u’lláh

prepared by the Bahá’í World Centre Office of Public Information HC $8.95 SC $1.50

An introduction to the life and work of Bahá’u’lláh, conveying His vision of the oneness of humanity and offering a perspective on “the feeling of confidence” with which Bahá’ís view “the future of our planet and our race.” This book will aid Bahá’ís in their efforts to achieve the “widest possible proclamation of the Name of Bahá’u’lláh” and to “blazon” it “across the globe, to make it a known eminence in the consciousness of peoples everywhere.” This edition features a foreword, maps, table of contents, introduction, glossary, and index, making it more accessible to a general audience. The hardcover edition is designed for use in public libraries and is suitable for presentation.

4-¼ x 7", 104pp., ‎forward foreword‎, maps, table of contents, introduction, notes, glossary, index Bahá’í Publications Australia

Songs of The Ancient Beauty

Conducted by Tom Price Produced by Jack Lenz and Tom Price Cassette $10.95 Compact Disc $16.00 (Specify which version when ordering)

A brilliantly produced, devotional and/or recreational cassette tape of unaccompanied vocal music by the Bahá’í Chorale. Songs of the Ancient Beauty showcases some of the best-known choral pieces associated with Bahá’í worship from various parts of the world. Lush harmonies and fresh arrangements are brought to life with superior soloistic performances by Dash Crofts and Narges Nouhnejad (Fani). The excellent ensemble singing of the Bahá’í Chorale makes this cassette one of the finest the Distribution Service has offered. The production of this unique recording was sponsored by the Universal House of Justice and the International Teaching Centre, to encourage the development of Bahá’í choral music throughout the world.

60 minutes Water music

THE MASTER KEY

By now, you have all received a copy of The Master Key: A Guide to Unlocking the Hearts of Humankind. If you have not received your copy, please contact the Bahá’í Distribution Service at the address printed on the order coupon.

What is the purpose of this new program?

• Getting the Bahá’í writings into the hands of every person who wishes to read them by removing as many obstacles as possible.
• Providing another tool for deepening our knowledge and understanding of the station and person of Bahá’u’lláh and of the meaning and purpose of His revelation.
• Supporting Bahá’ís’ efforts to focus proclamation and teaching activities on helping others understand who Bahá’u’lláh is and what He teaches.

WE HAVE MOVED

The Bahá’í Distribution Service has successfully completed its relocation to Chattanooga, Tennessee. We would like to thank you for your patience during this transition. Please use the following addresses to communicate with us most effectively:

ORDERS / PAYMENTS	MARKETING / PROMOTION	EDITORIAL / PERMISSIONS
Bahá’í Distribution Service 5397 Wilbanks Dr. Chattanooga, TN 37343	Bahá’í Publications Marketing Department 415 Linden Avenue Wilmette, IL 60091	Bahá’í Publications Editorial Department 415 Linden Avenue Wilmette, IL 60091
1-800-999-9019 1-615-843-1333 FAX: 1-615-843-0836	1-708-251-1854 FAX: 1-708-251-3652	1-708-251-1854 FAX: 1-708-251-3652

Order now through the Bahá’í Distribution Service • 1-800-999-9019 [Page 7]

Bahá’í Holy Days

The Declaration of the Báb HC $12.95 “Behold, all these signs are manifest in Me!” Hear again the words of the Báb on the night of His declaration. Read eyewitness accounts of the events surrounding that memorable evening when the Báb fulfilled ‎prophesies prophecies‎ of the Adamic Cycle and opened a new era in religious history. This book is the fourth in a series of books published by Kalimát Press on the Bahá’í Holy Days. Other books in this series include: The Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh, The Passing of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, and Days of Ridván. 5-½" x 7-¾", 82 pp., table of contents, preface, appendix, sources Kalimát Press

The Martyrdom of the Báb HC $14.95 Deepen your understanding of the seemingly miraculous events surrounding the Báb’s last moments on earth. The story of the Báb’s martyrdom is one of the most dramatic and well-documented in Bahá’í history, retold here with eyewitness accounts and passages from the writings of Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, and Shoghi Effendi. This book is the fifth in a series of books published by Kalimát Press on the Bahá’í Holy Days. Other books in this series include: The Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh, The Passing of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Days of Ridván, and The Declaration of the Báb. 5-½" x 7-½", 112pp., table of contents, preface, appendix, sources Kalimát Press

Days of Ridván HC $14.95 Days of Ridván is a joyous retelling of the Ridván story, marking the holiest days of the Bahá’í year. This compilation of stories, prayers, readings; and the Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, and Shoghi Effendi explain the significance of the Ridván festival: the first, the ninth, and the twelfth days. Also included are eyewitness accounts of the memorable days of Bahá’u’lláh’s declaration of His mission. 5-¼" x 7-¼", 76 pp., preface, appendix, sources Kalimát Press

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U.H.J. Compilations

Family Life, SC $3.50 Success in Teaching, SC $1.95

Basic Facts of the Bahá’í Faith Bahá’í Publishing Trust of the U.S. PA 50/pk $5.75 This introductory pamphlet presents a basic description of the Bahá’í Faith and outlines its fundamental teachings in an easy-to-read format. It discusses humanity’s need for world order and highlights the principle of the oneness of humankind, and other Bahá’í principles conveying Bahá’u’lláh’s vision of a united world. A brief history of the Faith is also given. The pamphlet ends with an invitation to investigate this Faith and share in this spiritual adventure.” A wonderful teaching tool for seekers and new believers. 6-⅜" x 3-½", 6-panel Erich Reich Enterprises

Recent New Titles

Bahá’u’lláh: A Glimpse of His Life and Teachings by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Canada, VT $25.00

Journal of Bahá’í Studies, Vol. 3, No. 4 SC $6.00

Morning Stars, VT A Profile of Kevin Locke, VT $29.95

Bahá’í Newsreel Vol. 3 No. 1 by Bahá’í Media Services, VT $15.95

O God, Guide Me! Bahá’u’lláh, the Báb, and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Illustrated by Gordon Laite, SC $4.00

Basic Facts of the Bahá’í Faith Bahá’í Publishing Trust of the U. S., PA 50/pk $5.75

The Invisible Hand Shaping the New World Order Nathan Rutstein SC $9.95 We live in a rapidly changing world—one that has seen the collapse of the Berlin Wall... the end of the Cold War... the decline of communism... and a movement to abolish apartheid. There’s growing uncertainty about the direction this “New World Order” will take us. Nathan Rutstein says that these historical events are the work of “The Invisible Hand,” that we are on the verge of an even greater global reform. World leaders, politicians, scientists, and philosophers are beginning to examine the worldwide Bahá’í community as a working model of unified cooperation. Close consideration of this hopeful perspective is vital to anyone interested in exploring the full range and implications of today’s social, economic, and spiritual processes at work in the world. 5-⅞" x 8-⅜", 110 pp., table of contents, introduction, bibliography Whitcomb Publishing, Inc.

Additional Sale Items!

Bahá’í Datebook (Australia) 149-50 B.E. (1992-93) SC $3.25 $2.00 net	Compilation of Compilations, HC $39.95 $25.00
The Bahá’í Faith in America, Vol. 1, HC $9.95 $5.00	The Gift of Life, 10/pkg. $6.95 $4.25
The Bahá’í World Vol. I-XII $360.00 $200.00 net	My Baby Book, HC $8.00 $5.25

Education on Trial Nathan Rutstein SC $14.95 Education on Trial attempts to bridge the gap between Bahá’í teachings and current educational practice. In a highly readable book designed to interest both the Bahá’í and non-Bahá’í reader, the author explains in convincing terms what is wrong with modern education:

• the lack of moral training in standard curricula
• an emphasis on competition rather than cooperation
• an emphasis on exam skills rather than research and communication skills
• the presence of sexism and racism in the classroom

The book illuminates the problems of education and offers innovative solutions based on the author’s experience both as a Bahá’í and as an educator. Essential reading for parents, educators, and policymakers alike. 5-¾" x 8-13/16", 217 pp., table of contents, acknowledgements, introduction, bibliography Oneworld Publications, Ltd.

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[Page 8]

Observances of the Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh

Some 3,000 Bahá’ís representing 200 countries and dependent territories, and including most of the living Knights of Bahá’u’lláh, gathered in the Holy Land during the last week of May to take part in ceremonies commemorating the centenary of the Ascension of the Lord of the Age, an occasion described by the Universal House of Justice as "awe-inspiring and evocative of profound emotion."

In a June 7 message to the Bahá’ís of the world, the House of Justice stated that the group comprised "the widest diversity of human beings ever to have assembled on a Bahá’í occasion," filling the eyes "with the vision of a garden of humanity that overwhelmed the senses, inducing a spirit of beauty, joy and splendor," and indicating "the amazing extent to which the pervasive power of His influence has triumphed throughout the world."

ON THE MORNING of May 28 the friends gathered for a ceremony in honor of the Knights of Bahá’u’lláh, the highlight of which was the placement of an illuminated scroll bearing the names of all 257 of those distinguished believers in a vault inside His holy Shrine. Of the 159 Knights of Bahá’u’lláh now living, 113 were present as the Hand of the Cause of God Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum deposited the steel cylinder containing the Roll of Honor into its niche in the floor of the Shrine's entrance door. The Universal House of Justice's tribute to Bahá’u’lláh was also read (see page 9 for the full text), as well as a letter from the Malietoa of Western Samoa, the world's only reigning Bahá’í monarch, written by him in honor of the centenary.

The scroll ceremony marked the fulfillment of Shoghi Effendi’s expressed desire to pay tribute to the heroic souls who would arise to open the virgin localities specifically mentioned by him at the beginning of the Ten Year Crusade. He did not live to witness the fulfillment of these goals; indeed, world conditions kept some of the places closed to the Faith until the Six Year Plan. In all there were 257 Knights who went to 259 localities (two went to two different places) in 131 countries and territories of the world.

The friends assembled again at the Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh in the early hours of May 29, for the devotional program in honor of the Ascension of "the most precious Being ever to have drawn breath on this planet."

To the Bahá’ís of the World

As we reflect on the events which a few days ago marked the commemoration in the Holy Land of the Centenary of the Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh, we feel impelled to express to the Bahá’í world our sense of wonderment at the exalted character of what transpired. The nature of the Anniversary was in itself awe-inspiring and evocative of profound emotion. But the gathering of some 3,000 Bahá’ís, including 113 Knights of Bahá’u’lláh, representing no less than 200 countries and dependent territories—the widest diversity of human beings ever to have assembled on a Bahá’í occasion—filled the eyes with the vision of a garden of humanity that overwhelmed the senses, inducing a spirit of beauty, joy and splendor. Bahjí was never more resplendent. And we offer prayers of thanksgiving to our beloved Lord that so fitting an assemblage could have been realized on this special Anniversary, indicating the amazing extent to which the pervasive power of His influence has triumphed throughout the world.

The three remaining Hands of the Cause of God, together with the members of the Universal House of Justice, entered the room in the mansion of Bahjí in which Bahá’u’lláh passed away, and there, as the rest of the believers prayed silently outside, supplicated the Blessed Beauty on behalf of the entire world. The main program then commenced with prayers in English, Spanish, French, Persian and Arabic, ending with the Tablet of Visitation. After the devotions the entire group circumambulated the Shrine, their path illuminated on both sides by thousands of candles placed on the ground at three-foot intervals.

May the evident blessings flowing from this heavenly experience infuse the dear friends everywhere with new strength and fresh encouragement, emboldening their efforts and enlarging their capacity to proclaim the Name and promote the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh during the course of the Holy Year so auspiciously begun.

The Universal House of Justice June 7, 1992

Later that day the friends gathered at the foot of Mount Carmel for the concluding ceremony. The believers walked up to the Shrine of the Báb, circumambulated His tomb, and proceeded to the Seat of the Universal House of Justice where they viewed the photograph of Bahá’u’lláh projected life-size onto a screen.

Thus ended the foremost commemorative event of the Holy Year. "May the evident blessings flowing from this heavenly experience," the Universal House of Justice wrote, "infuse the dear friends everywhere with new strength and fresh encouragement, emboldening their efforts and enlarging their capacity to proclaim the Name and promote the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh during the course of the Holy Year so auspiciously begun."

WORLD COMMUNITY MARKS ASCENSION

The Knights of Bahá’u’lláh and the world representation of believers in the Holy Land made up one of many gatherings held all over the world, which together bore witness to the "transcendent and victorious influence of Bahá’u’lláh’s liberated Spirit." Similar meetings took place in every Bahá’í House of Worship and in thousands of communities in every country and territory where the followers of Bahá’u’lláh reside.

The Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette was the site of the chief observance in this country, where friends from across the United States heard selections from the same devotional program used in the Holy Land. The 2,000 in attendance filled both the main auditorium and Foundation Hall to capacity.

The friends were greeted upon entering the House of Worship by members of the National Spiritual Assembly, who presented a single red rose to each person. The guests then filed through the main auditorium, where each was anointed with rose water before viewing the portrait of Bahá’u’lláh from the U.S. Bahá’í Archives.

The evening's devotions were complemented by music from the Tennessee Bahá’í Choir and the Bahá’í House of Worship Choir, who performed together, and by the chanting of a prayer in Arabic revealed by Bahá’u’lláh. The Tablet of Visitation was read in English at precisely 4:00 a.m., then chanted in Arabic.

The entire program, carried out with exquisite attention to the solemnity and grandeur of the occasion, inspired those present with feelings of reverence and gratitude, and certainly reflected that "spiritual character and dignified manner" called for by the House of Justice, which would "draw down confirmations from on high and profoundly influence the constructive forces at work throughout the earth."

Elsewhere in the U.S. local observances were held to coincide with the commemoration in Wilmette. One of the most successful was at the Bosch Bahá’í School in Santa Cruz, California, where more than 200 believers gathered for a six-hour program that included a turkey dinner and special presentations on the Station of Bahá’u’lláh, the meaning of the Covenant, and the Ridván 1992 message from the House of Justice. During the commemoration one non-Bahá’í guest became a believer.

The friends were so inspired that they sent a message to the National Spiritual Assembly assuring that body of their allegiance to Bahá’u’lláh and their commitment to teach the Faith in anticipation of entry by troops.

Pictured are some of the more than 100 Bahá’ís and their guests who gathered to observe the 100th anniversary of the Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh at the Langston Hughes Center in Buffalo, New York.

PROCLAMATION EVENTS

Many communities held proclamation events to bring the centenary to the attention of the public. For example, more than 2,000 Bahá’ís from Southern California took part in a public celebration of the Holy Year on May 30 in Fountain Valley. The friends set up a stage in a local park and displayed banners and signs about Bahá’u’lláh and His teachings.

The day's program included musical entertainment and presentations on Bahá’u’lláh. Many copies of the statement on Bahá’u’lláh were distributed, as well as copies of the race unity and peace statements. About 130 non-Bahá’ís attended the event, which was advertised in two local editions of the Los Angeles Times. A story about the celebration appeared in the Orange County Register on May 31.

The Spiritual Assembly of Mount Vernon, Washington, prepared and distributed packets containing a statement directed to the administrators and 116 faculty members of Skagit Valley College and the administrators and faculty of Mount Vernon High School, on the importance of instilling a global perspective on tomorrow's citizens.

Each packet also included "The Promise of World Peace," "The Vision of Race Unity" and the statement on Bahá’u’lláh, as well as a press release on the establishment of the Bahá’í Chair for World Peace at the University of Maryland at College Park. Recipients of the packets were invited to attend a program at Skagit Valley College Theater on May 29.

LEADERS PAY TRIBUTE TO BAHÁ’U’LLÁH

The centenary of the Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh also prompted tributes to His life and work from leaders of thought and government around the world.

In a ceremonial act convened at the Paulskirche in Frankfurt on May 26 by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Germany, 920 people paid tribute to Bahá’u’lláh on the occasion of the centenary of His Ascension.

In a written message of greeting read at the event, Chancellor Helmut Kohl conveyed his cordial greetings, referred to the Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh, assured the Bahá’í community of the German government's continuing efforts in human rights issues, and said: "The Bahá’ís..." [Page 9]

TRIBUTE

House of Justice pays homage to Redeemer of humankind

On the occasion of the centenary commemoration at Bahjí of the ascension of Bahá’u’lláh: A tribute by the Universal House of Justice

With soul-stirring emotion we gather in the hallowed environs of His resting place to honor the memory of the Supreme Manifestation of God, Bahá’u’lláh, on the solemn, historic occasion of the centenary of His ascension. We lift our voices at the prompting of our hearts' desire to pay tribute to a life infinitely beyond compare. But how shall we realize such a wish when it is evident that no mind can attain the comprehension which would make possible the vocabulary worthy of His celestial court? In very truth, our tongues falter in their impotence to describe, let alone extol, the prodigies of a prophetic career which was framed in superlatives. For here at Bahjí, one hundred years ago, was drawn the last breath on earth of the world's greatest Luminary, Founder of the Dispensation marking the culmination of the six-thousand-year-old Adamic Cycle, and Inaugurator of the five-thousand-century Bahá’í Cycle. He, the Most Great Manifestation, appeared in the Most Great Name and endured the greatest suffering in authoring the Most Great Revelation, which is the wellspring of the Most Great Peace. In our attempt to appreciate these matchless bounties, we recite the gem-like names of the Adored One, picked out as pearls from the veritable ocean of His Revelation, bestrewing them throughout our testimonial that they may lend an acceptable gleam to our expression of His glory and majesty.

King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Supreme Mediator, Most Ancient Beauty: He is the Well-Beloved of all worlds. We hail Him as the long-awaited Promised One, the Object of the adoration of the world. And we exclaim: "Hallowed be the Lord in Whose hand is the source of dominion!"

How grievously Bahá’u’lláh suffered to regenerate the world! Wrongly accused, imprisoned, beaten, chained, banished from country to country, betrayed, poisoned, stripped of material possessions, and "at every moment tormented with a fresh torment": such was the cruel reception that greeted the Everlasting Father, Him Who is the Possessor of all Names and Attributes. For two score years, until the end of His earthly days, He remained a prisoner and exile—persecuted unceasingly by the rulers of Persia and the Ottoman Empire, opposed relentlessly by a vicious and scheming clergy, neglected abjectly by other sovereigns to whom He addressed potent letters imparting to them that which, in His truth-bearing words, "is the cause of the well-being, the unity, the harmony, and the reconstruction of the world, and of the tranquillity of the nations." "My grief," He once lamented, "exceedeth all the woes to which Jacob gave vent, and all the afflictions of Job are but a part of My sorrows."

The voice halts for shame from continuing so deplorable a recitation, the heart is torn by mere thought of the Divine Target of such grief—grief no ordinary mortal could endure. But lest we give way to feelings of gloom and distress, we take recourse in the tranquil calm He induces with such meaningful words as these: "We have borne it all with the utmost willingness and resignation, so that the souls of men may be edified, and the Word of God be exalted." Thus, the Wronged One, patient beyond measure, preserved a majestic composure, revealing His true Self as the Merciful, the Loving, the Incomparable Friend. Concentrating His energies on the pivotal purpose of His Revelation, He transmuted His tribulations into instruments of redemption and summoned all peoples to the banner of unity.

No worldly power could thwart the purpose of the Most Exalted Pen. Through the copiousness of His writings, He poured upon the planet the healing waters of the Word of God renewed. Descending upon Him like a spring rain, His Revelation comprises some one hundred volumes—"volumes replete with unnumbered exhortations, revolutionizing principles, world-shaping laws and ordinances, dire warnings and portentous prophecies, with soul-uplifting prayers and meditations, illuminating commentaries and interpretations, impassioned discourses and homilies, all interspersed with either addresses or references to kings, to emperors and to ministers, of both the East and the West, to ecclesiastics of divers denominations, and to leaders in the intellectual, political, literary, mystical, commercial and humanitarian spheres of human activity." Foremost among His Books is His Kitáb-i-Aqdas, the charter of the future world civilization in which He has announced the Laws of God for this age. Our hearts thrill to the prospect that during the course of this centennial year, the annotated English translation of this Mother Book of Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation is to be published. We acknowledge with astonished joy the prolific legacy of this divine outpouring. And we exclaim: "Praised be Thou, Who art the Desire of the World, and thanks be to Thee, O Well-Beloved of the hearts of such as are devoted to Thee!"

Today, we bear witness to the further abundance of a peerless heritage. With the setting of the Sun of Bahá, the Moon of His Covenant rose in reflected glory, lifting the darkness of a night of despair, and lighting the path to the unity of all humankind. In the fullness of its radiance stands the magnetic Figure of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the beloved Son Whom Bahá’u’lláh designated as the Interpreter of His Word and Executive of His authority, and Whom He appointed the Center of His Covenant, an office without parallel in all religious history.

We acknowledge the mysterious power of His wisdom, the illuminating potency of His words, the immortal example and unific character of His deeds. By His untiring exertions the fame of the infant Cause was spread abroad, the design of its Administrative Order was completed, the World Center of the Faith emerged into clear visibility, and the splendors of the Mountain of God, as alluded to in Bahá’u’lláh’s Tablet of Carmel, began to be manifested. With profound gratitude for such evident blessings we reaffirm our loyalty to the Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh. And we exclaim: "Glorified be the All-Merciful, the Lord of Grace abounding!"

As a result of the phenomenal effects of His Covenant, a world community has been raised up on an "unassailable foundation." The entire system of the Administrative Order originated by Bahá’u’lláh in His Most Holy Book has been erected. A vigorous network of local, national, continental and international institutions functions in exemplary harmony throughout the planet. Vitalized and nurtured by His stupendous Revelation, watered by the precious blood of countless martyrs, and tended by the loving care of unnumbered, devoted servants, the Tree of the Cause has, in these hundred years, grown mightily, has put forth its far-stretching branches and borne its first and plentiful fruit.

Bahá’u’lláh found the world in a "strange sleep." But what a disturbance His coming has unloosed! The peoples of the earth had been separated, many parts of the human race socially and spiritually isolated. But the world of humanity today bears little resemblance to that which Bahá’u’lláh left a century ago. Unbeknownst to the great majority, His influence permeates all living beings. Indeed, no domain of life remains unaffected. In the burgeoning energy, the magnified perspectives, the heightened global consciousness; in the social and political turbulence, the fall of kingdoms, the emancipation of nations, the intermixture of cultures, the clamor for development; in the agitation over the extremes of wealth and poverty, the acute concern over the abuse of the environment, the leap of consciousness regarding the rights of women; in the growing tendency toward ecumenism, the increasing call for a new world order; in the astounding advances in the realms of science, technology, literature and the arts—in all this tumult, with its paradoxical manifestations of chaos and order, integration and disintegration, are the signs of His power as a World Reformer, the proof of His claim as Divine Physician, the truth of His Word as the All-Knowing Counselor.

Bahá’u’lláh wrote voluminously about the purpose of this mysterious force and its transforming effects, but the essence can be drawn from these few perspicuous words: "Through the movement of Our Pen of Glory We have, at the bidding of the Omnipotent Ordainer, breathed a new life into every human frame, and instilled into every word a fresh potency. All created things proclaim the evidences of this worldwide regeneration." And again: "A new life is, in this age, stirring within all the peoples of the earth; and yet none hath discovered its cause or perceived its motive." And yet again: "He Who is the Unconditioned is come, in the clouds of light, that He may quicken all created things with the breezes of His Name, the Most Merciful, and unify the world, and gather all men around this Table which hath been sent down from heaven."

Let the denizens of the earth wake from their slumber at the resonances of His Name and arise from their confused dreams to embrace the clarity of the new Day: For "This is the King of Days, the Day that hath seen the coming of the Best-Beloved, Him Who through all eternity hath been acclaimed the Desire of the World."

Our thoughts turn back to the mourning time in 1892 when a vast number of residents from the surrounding area came to join His bereaved followers in lamenting the departure of the immortal Beloved. These were not adherents of His Cause and had no real understanding of His station, but the effect of His presence among them was such as to fill them with a grave sense of loss. Today, a century later, it is we, who identify ourselves with His community, who have come in multitudinous array from the far corners of the earth to pay homage to the King of Glory. With us in spirit are the millions of His lovers scattered among tens of thousands of villages, towns and cities, themselves observing in their own localities this solemn anniversary, their hearts focused on the Primal Spot here at Bahjí.

And among us at this Point of Adoration are a number of the heroic souls from the celebrated company who earned the accolade Knights of Bahá’u’lláh conferred upon them by Shoghi Effendi, Guardian of the Cause—this to signify their acts of daring and devotion as teachers of the Faith. It is they who were in the vanguard during the triumphant Ten Year World Crusade. Their exploits, built upon the dramatic feats of the Heroic Age and the sacrifices of countless martyrs and heroes of the past, and following the trail blazed by earlier teachers of the Faith, realized the actual establishment of the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh as a world religion.

Now, on this commemorative occasion, the Roll of Honor on which the names of the Knights have been inscribed is being deposited by Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum at the entrance door of the Most Holy Shrine in the spot designated by our beloved Guardian. This is both a symbol and a promise—a symbol registering the reality of a clear response, at a critical time, to the duty laid upon us by the Lord of Hosts to diffuse His teachings among all peoples; a promise that the commitment so dazzlingly displayed by these intrepid pioneers will be reaffirmed by generations of their successors, ensuring that the light of Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation shining in all its power and glory will have suffused and enveloped the entire planet.

This is also a mark of recognition of the power of the Hand of Omnipotence to turn gnats into eagles. His bounties embolden us. Broken-winged birds are we; yet, with His assurances resounding in our souls, we soar to ever greater heights in His service. "I am the royal Falcon on the arm of the Almighty!" He declares, benevolently adding: "I unfold the drooping wings of every broken bird and start it on its flight." How then can we fail?

We here make this vow: With a stirring history of divine support behind us and a clear vision of unfolding destiny before us, we move onward, renewed, reconsecrated, resolute, until the consciousness of every human being has been touched by the knowledge of God's triumphant Faith. And, intoning the expectant words of His Martyr-Herald, we exclaim: "Exalted be His glory, and magnified be His might, and sanctified be His holiness, and glorified be His grandeur, and lauded be His ways!"

The Universal House of Justice May 29, 1992 KALIMÁT B.E. 149/ JULY 13, 1992 [Page 10]

CLASSIFIEDS

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

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

THE MAXWELL International Bahá’í School in Canada regularly needs retired persons to volunteer in supervisory/managerial positions such as for the uniform shop, laundry service, front desk, etc. Youth volunteers are also needed in many areas. Room and board provided. If you are interested, please apply to the Service Coordinator, Maxwell International Bahá’í School, Bag 1000, Shawnigan Lake, British Columbia V0R 2W0, Canada, or telephone 604-743-7144.

PIONEERING (HOMEFRONT)

WOODBURN, Oregon, is poised for entry by troops! Would you like to help? Spanish-speakers are especially useful, as most of those who have enrolled here so far speak Spanish. However, about 4,000 Russian-speakers and 10,000 English-speakers also need to hear about Bahá’u’lláh. There is work for everyone. Pioneers are most welcome, as are those who can come on vacation any time of the year. Anyone who is passionate about teaching can be of enormous help. Most will need to be self-supporting; housing is relatively inexpensive. We are planning to extend and strengthen a diverse effort that has included social and economic development and long- and short-term service projects. For example, we have ongoing nightly classes in English as a second language, and need more teachers. Musicians have been of great help, and there are many possibilities for using music in the teaching work. For more information, please contact the Woodburn Coordinating Committee, c/o Jan House, P.O. Box 167, Aurora, OR 97002 (phone 503-678-5162, home, or 503-678-1085, business).

WANTED: intrepid homefront pioneers for the Navajo Reservation community of Navajo, New Mexico. Teaching positions are available in elementary, junior high, and high school for all subjects. Applicants must be mentally stable and able to endure physical hardships. Navajo is a semi-isolated community of 3,000 about 50 miles from Gallup on the New Mexico/Arizona border. For information, write to the Spiritual Assembly of Red Lake Chapter, P.O. Box 1292, Navajo, NM 87328, or phone Vic Bertis (505-777-2479) or Loevia Hockley (505-777-2603).

THE BAHÁ’ÍS of Las Vegas, New Mexico, need your help to establish an Assembly and strong Bahá’í community in this lovely area of northern New Mexico, home of New Mexico Highlands University and the Armand Hammer United World College (a prep school for select advanced high school students). Las Vegas borders the plains, magnificent national forests, and a wilderness area. For information, please write to Suzanne Watkins, Las Vegas, NM 87701.

AFRICAN-AMERICAN, Hispanic and Korean Bahá’ís are invited to become homefront pioneers to Reno, Nevada. Also invited are financially independent Bahá’ís to manage the newly acquired Bahá’í Center in downtown Reno. The community is intensely unified, as are the surrounding communities, with primary emphasis given to children and family activities. Employment is abundant, real estate and housing rentals are available at reasonable prices, there are excellent schools including the University of Nevada-Reno and community colleges, a lovely environment and no state income tax. Continuous Bahá’í activities as well as recent enrollments prompt the Spiritual Assembly of Reno to invite prospective homefront pioneers to consider Reno as a teaching and consolidation post. Contact the Spiritual Assembly of Reno, P.O. Box 6447, Reno, NV 89513.

DOCTORS and other health care professionals are desperately needed to serve Indian communities in Nebraska, Iowa, North Dakota and South Dakota. This homefront pioneering opportunity includes the potential for carrying Bahá’u’lláh’s Message to American Indians. For more information, please phone Ada James at the National Teaching Committee Office, 708-657-8633.

BAHÁ’Í college students are needed to pioneer in the Las Vegas, New Mexico, area. New Mexico Highlands University, in Las Vegas, is a small college (about 2,400 students) offering a variety of liberal arts, science and teaching degrees. A ‎masters master's‎ degree program is also available, as is financial aid for qualified students. The school has a number of excellent student support services. For information about the school or an application for admission, write to the Director of Admissions, New Mexico Highlands University, Las Vegas, NM 87701; for information about the Bahá’í community, write to Suzanne Watkins, Las Vegas, NM 87701.

KILLEEN, Texas, needs Bahá’ís. There is only one Bahá’í in this multi-racial city of 60,000 whose metro population including nearby Fort Hood is about 200,000. Only an hour away are the state capital, Austin, and San Antonio, cultural center of the Southwest. Killeen needs Bahá’ís who would like to teach the Faith to people of diverse backgrounds (Asian, Hispanic, black, white). The Killeen Public School District plans to hire an additional 400 teachers before the coming school year. If you have a college degree, the school district will help you become certified. For an application, phone 817-526-8361. For more information, please write to David Price, Copperas Cove, TX 76522, or phone Bill Irving, 817-772-7839.

THE BAHÁ’Í community of Harlingen, Texas, is poised for unprecedented growth. The special significance of the U.S.-Mexico border has been outlined by the Universal House of Justice. The Free Trade Agreement between the U.S. and Mexico will be a great impetus for growth here. There are four Spiritual Assemblies in the Valley: Edinburg, McAllen, Brownsville and Harlingen. If you would like to be a homefront pioneer or help bolster our communities, you would be most welcome. Employment in medicine is immediately available, especially for internists and family practitioners, but also in the sub-specialties. Teaching positions in primary and secondary education also available. One need not be bilingual. Write to the Spiritual Assembly of Harlingen, P.O. Box 830, Harlingen, TX 78551, or phone 512-421-2233 or 512-425-6385.

PIONEERING (OVERSEAS)

EMPLOYMENT opportunities overseas: AFRICA—Tanzania: teacher trainer and English teachers. AMERICAS—Dominica: general manager/engineer for bottled water company. Ecuador: library attendant in Bahá’í primary school. Honduras: elementary school teachers. ASIA—Cambodia: community development implementer, sanitarians. Laos: elementary school teachers. Thailand: teacher supervisor. Vietnam: public health adviser. URGENT need in Tanzania for an experienced teacher trainer and three qualified English teachers for the Ruaha Technical Secondary School, the first Bahá’í secondary school in Africa. Urgent need for fully-credentialed elementary school teachers at the Vientiane International School in Laos. The National Spiritual Assembly of the Fiji Islands is seeking a self-supporting couple with experience in the fields of publishing and/or office management to take charge of their Bahá’í Publishing Trust. The Peace Corps is seeking small enterprise development specialists and agribusiness advisers for the Baltics and the Commonwealth of Independent States. For more information on any of the above, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette IL 60091; telephone 708-869-9039 or fax 708-869-0247, Attn: Office of Pioneering.

ARCHIVES

THE NATIONAL Bahá’í Archives is seeking, at the request of the Universal House of Justice, original letters written on behalf of the Guardian to the following individuals: Mildred K. Lunt (died Ventura, CA, 1970), Lorral Luther (died Monroe, WA, 1950), Hannah Lynch, Maardyu Lyska, Ruby Dunn MacCurdy, Kaukab MacCutcheon (died Minneapolis, MN, 1948), Malcolm MacGillivray and Ethel MacGross. Anyone knowing family members or relatives who might have these letters from the Guardian is asked to contact the National Bahá’í Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039).

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

WANTED

WANTED: help for the Bahá’í World Congress Youth Movement Forum in November. If you are a youth who is an experienced sound/lighting technician or stage manager, and if you plan to attend the Congress and would like to help, please contact the Bahá’í World Congress Youth Movement Forum, 866 United Nations Plaza, Suite 119, New York, NY 10017.

WANTED: Experienced Bahá’í communicators interested in helping in the design and development of the communications architecture of the World Congress. Initial design plans call for a virtual PBX, leased voice and digital lines, PBX trunking, cell and beeper systems, local and wide area computer networks, RF-based systems to include narrow band FM with tone burst signaling, microwave and fiber optic systems. Qualifications and experience should include designing and planning complex multi-media communications networks, RF repeater networks, digital communications, and LAN/WAN backbone systems. Previous military/civilian experience in developing tactical communications networks would be most helpful. Bahá’ís holding general and above amateur radio licenses are urgently needed to help design back-up communications network to support various remote locations in the New York City area. Please submit a brief summary of qualifications and experience to Art Stanwood, On-Site World Congress Communications Coordinator, Lexington, KY 40508. Phone 606-268-6280 after 5 p.m.

WANTED: Bahá’í training and organizational development professionals, educators or aspiring professionals interested in becoming involved in an interfaith community-based learning collaborative designed to address humanitarian needs. Please respond to Cheryle Gittens-Bailey, P.O. Box 6065, Bridgewater, NJ 08828.

THE BAHÁ’Í community of Yellow Springs, Ohio, is urgently seeking two pictures from previous Bahá’í wall calendars for a public display: (1) the Temple in India; and (2) a close-up of the entrance to the Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh. If you have either or both and could share them with us, please send them to Linden Qualls, Yellow Springs, OH 45387 (phone 513-764-7079).

I AM LOOKING for stories about Bahá’í teaching in the former Soviet Union for a book that Lynda Godwin and I are compiling. Anyone who has traveled to those republics and has a memory or a story to share may write a paragraph or even a chapter. The Universal House of Justice has encouraged the project, saying it is “sure that this collection of personal stories will be of great interest to the present teachers and to those of the future.” Please send materials to Linda Brown, Winter Haven, FL 33880 (phone 813-293-3584).

THE BAHÁ’Í World Congress Youth Movement Forum needs Bahá’ís who are actors, singers and/or dancers to take part in two special dramatic presentations planned in connection with the Congress in November. Those who are interested should submit (1) a letter explaining why they wish to be considered as a performer; (2) a 3- to 5-minute VHS format video taped monologue on any classical or contemporary figure; (3) résumés listing relevant experience; and (4) one 8x10 photograph. If you are not a professional performer, please outline your experience and/or interest in the arts. Non-professionals are encouraged to apply. Please note: 1. roles vary to include males, females, adults and youth of at least 12 years of age; 2. travel, accommodations and other expenses will not be covered by the World Congress—applicants must be self-supporting; 3. performers must be available for rehearsals in New York City by early November, three weeks before the Congress; and 4. the deadline for submissions is July 1. Please forward submissions to: Bahá’í World Congress, Youth Movement Forum, 866 United Nations Plaza, Suite 119, New York, NY 10017.

WANTED: a few helping hands at the Bahá’í World Congress in November. If you are an experienced writer and/or photographer who plans to attend the Congress and would like to spend some time helping us produce the special issue of The American Bahá’í that reports news of this historic event to the friends around the world, please drop a note to the editor, The American Bahá’í, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone Jack Bowers, 708-869-9039, ext. 293. Thanks.

MISCELLANEOUS

MIDWIVES and other Bahá’ís active in midwifery: where are you, and are you going to the MANA conference in New York the week before the World Congress? Whether yes or no, I’d love to get to know you. I’m a Bahá’í, a Bradley Method teacher and active midwifery promoter. Contact Lisa Bradley, Columbus, NE 68601 (phone 402-564-4193).

TEACH with video. I have dozens of non-copyrighted Bahá’í presentations on VHS video—Hands of the Cause, members of the National Assembly, Auxiliary Board members, etc. I would like to swap copies of my videos for copies of yours. I’m especially interested in trading internationally. If you’ll send one tape of yours with a self-addressed, stamped mailer to me, I’ll return the favor. Joel Smith, Carbondale, IL (phone 618-549-8533).

YOUTH and those of all ages! Come teach the Faith this summer in northern Ohio and western Pennsylvania with the Northcoast Necklace of Lights, lovingly dedicated to the Hand of the Cause of God William Sears. Youth with two weeks to give as well as traveling teachers are welcome. For information, contact the Bahá’í Youth Board of Greater Cleveland, c/o Jenkins, Cleveland, OH 44122 (phone 216-283-8526), or Lynn Farnsworth, 216-247-2135.

NOTICE to vendors at the Green Lake (Wisconsin) Bahá’í Conference, September 18-20: The National Spiritual Assembly has a policy that requires review and approval of all materials to be sold at Bahá’í conferences. All materials must be specifically Bahá’í in nature. Please contact the National Assembly for such review and approval. To sign up for space in the Exhibit Hall at the Green Lake Conference, write to M. Naysmith, Exhibit Hall coordinator, South La Crosse, WI 54601 (phone 608-782-5793).

If you are traveling outside the United States for any reason, please contact the Office of Pioneering (708-869-9039) for information. [Page 11]

World News

Teaching activities in three areas of Tamil Nadu State, India, during February and March led to the enrollment of 153 new believers. The Spiritual Assembly of Sivakasi launched a teaching campaign in February, during which 85 people embraced the Faith. Meanwhile, in Thandrampattu, the local Assembly held a teaching project in which five volunteers enrolled 32 new believers, and formed a new Assembly in Thiruvannamalai District. In March, a homefront pioneer, Anthony Samy, enrolled 36 new believers in Kanyakumari.

Teaching during March and April in the Republic of Ireland resulted in the enrollment of almost 50 new believers including 15 members of a family of traveling people in County Tipperary. The other new Bahá’ís, most of whom are young people from Waterford, Dundalk, Carlow and Gorey, were reached during a campaign led by a Counselor and Auxiliary Board members supported by the National Spiritual Assembly. The Irish Bahá’í choir, “Turning Point,” which recently completed a teaching trip to Poland, presented concerts during the campaign.

The “historic city of Curtea de Argeș, the resting place of Queen Marie of Romania,” was the setting for that country’s first Bahá’í youth school, held in April and attended by 60 young Bahá’ís. Many of those at the school took part in street teaching that resulted in the enrollment of 15 new believers. Participants also reported that the Faith was widely proclaimed in the city during the school, and that they were warmly received by the mayor and townspeople.

On April 21, the first day of Ridván, the official document signifying the registration and recognition of the Faith in Poland was handed to a member of the Polish National Teaching Committee by a representative of the country’s Department of Religious Affairs. “Thus,” the National Spiritual Assembly reports, “the future National Spiritual Assembly as well as every existing or future local Spiritual Assembly in Poland has a legal status on its own as an organ of the Bahá’í Faith in Poland and enjoys full rights.”

Following a recent training program for native teachers in Celendin, Peru, whose participants, mostly youth, later embarked on a 10-day teaching campaign, 120 people embraced the Faith and six new local Spiritual Assemblies were elected.

Fourteen students at the Maxwell International Bahá’í School on Vancouver Island, Canada, were among the winners in a competition designed to publicize the United Nations’ Earth Summit, an international conference on development and the environment. The competition was conducted by the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA), the Canadian Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War, the Simons Foundation, and Veterans Against Nuclear Arms. The winners’ works appear in a publication entitled Creating Our Common Future and includes poetry, prose, music and visual arts work of the winning Maxwell School students.

On the first day of Ridván, April 21, an official public announcement of the beginning of the Holy Year commemorating the centenary of the ascension of Bahá’u’lláh was made in the State Senate and House of Representatives of Hawaii. Bahá’í prayers were recited after the announcement.

The Spiritual Assembly of Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia, was elected at Ridván during a meeting attended by 21 adults, youth and children. The voting resulted in an Assembly comprised of five native believers, two pioneers and two foreign residents.

David Hofman, retired member of the Universal House of Justice, undertook a traveling teaching trip through Canada in February and March in what the National Spiritual Assembly described as “part of the early beginnings of emblazoning Bahá’u’lláh’s Name across Canada.” The goal of Mr. Hofman’s trip was to proclaim and teach the Faith to prominent people, leaders of thought, and the news media. He also worked hard to support the teaching work in local communities he visited.

On the first day of a proclamation campaign in Equatorial Guinea that resulted in the distribution of the peace message to almost 200 dignitaries, government ministers and other prominent persons in that country, the Secretary of State for Press, Radio and Television phoned Auxiliary Board member Dr. Mediany to congratulate the Bahá’ís for “this wonderful message.” The Secretary went on to invite Bahá’í representatives to take part in a live television program broadcast throughout the country on Sunday afternoons. Three members of the National Spiritual Assembly did so, and the interview, which was to last for 10 minutes, went on three times as long.

Mark Ochu, a classical pianist from the United States, presented a number of concerts in Greece from March 25-April 6, combining each recital with the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh in a dignified, warmhearted way. “It was the first time,” the National Spiritual Assembly of Greece reported, “that the Name of Bahá’u’lláh was so widely and openly proclaimed.” Mr. Ochu was interviewed on radio and television, and newspaper coverage mentioned that the concerts were being performed “for the commemoration of the Centenary of the passing of the Founder of the Bahá’í Faith.”

On February 28, the Vice-President of India, Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma, received a Bahá’í delegation at his residence in New Delhi. He asked many questions about the Faith and inquired about the situation of the Bahá’ís in Iran.

One hundred adults and 50 children including many Maori Bahá’ís attended a national Maori Hui held April 3-5 at Tanuwhara Marae, near Hamilton, New Zealand. Also attending were Counselor Betra Majmeto, five members of the National Spiritual Assembly, and three Auxiliary Board members. The Hui was called to discuss initiatives of the Maori friends and to consult on teaching, deepening, the Covenant, and the Holy Year.

Immediately after Naw-Rúz, a correspondence course for all the believers was launched by the National Spiritual Assembly of Romania. The course, which includes 12 lessons on basic aspects of the Faith, will be mailed to the friends on a monthly basis.

On the first day of the Holy Year, the Faith was proclaimed on Australian television. A program called “Real Life” showed film of the exterior and interior of the Australian House of Worship with a large congregation present. Short interviews with individual Bahá’ís also were broadcast.

The Bahá’í community of Sikkim has reached its Six Year Plan goal of opening 100 localities to the Faith. Also, in March, 25 new believers were enrolled.

During January, the Faith was represented at a Congress on Religious Studies at the New University of Lisbon, Portugal. ‎Fedows Ferdows‎ Imani, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly of Portugal, presented a lecture on the Faith, and a Bahá’í book exhibit was held.

On May 1-2, Bahá’ís in Hungary gathered at their National Convention in the presence of the Hand of the Cause of God ‘Alí-Akbar Furútan to elect that country’s first National Spiritual Assembly, whose members are pictured with Mr. Furútan (center) and delegates to the Convention.

Sacramento’s Hmong Teaching Institute stays active with help of video prepared by Bahá’í in San Diego

The six-member Bahá’í Hmong Teaching Institute of the Sacramento, California, area is engaged in a systematic effort to bring the Message of Bahá’u’lláh to all people of Hmong background in its area.

The commitment to that goal has led the members of the Institute to begin a “fireside-on-Wheels” program. Three firesides have been held so far, two in Sacramento and one in South Sacramento.

Several declarations have resulted from the firesides including Mr. Moua Tou Vang, a Hmong clan leader of 20 families. The Institute reports that he joined the Bahá’í community on May 27 and has already begun teaching the Faith to two or three Hmong families.

At each of the firesides, members of the Institute shared Bahá’í literature in Hmong; a Bahá’í video tape, also in Hmong; refreshments, and lots of love.

The video tape was made by Chue Chang, a prominent Hmong Bahá’í in San Diego, California, who came to the U.S. in the late 1970s as a refugee from Laos, has not only established himself and his family but has been directly involved in helping to improve the lives of other newcomers and proclaiming the Message of Bahá’u’lláh among them.

This has been made possible because of Mr. Chang’s experience as a leader of Southeast Asian community groups, cross-cultural counselor, gang prevention program counselor, and provider of adjustment services for newcomers. He has also served for many years as master of ceremonies for the San Diego area’s Hmong national New Year celebration.

Mr. Chang was one of many outstanding Southeast Asian leaders who took part last January in the first Southeast Asian Community Builders Round-Table Discussion at the Bosch Bahá’í School. The success of that conference was due in part to his contributions and leadership.

Recently, Mr. Chang visited Sacramento to present a fireside in Hmong entitled “Introduction to and Principles of the Bahá’í Faith.”

CHUE CHANG

It was so well received that video tapes of the fireside are now being used by the Bahá’í Hmong Institute of the Sacramento area to teach the Faith. This has led to a number of declarations.

In a recent letter to the U.S. Bahá’í Refugee Office, Mr. Chang expressed his wish “to recognize the many wonderful Bahá’ís who help spread and teach the Faith to Southeast Asians across the United States.”

Mr. Chang will be one of the featured speakers July 24-26 at the third annual Southeast Asian Conference at the Louhelen Bahá’í School. The conference theme is “Connecting the Hearts of Southeast Asians to Bahá’u’lláh.” [Page 12]

حضرت بهاءالله مظهر کلی الهی

THE UNIQUENESS OF BAHA’U’LLAH

به اعتقاد اهل بهاء، حضرت بهاءالله مقدس‌ترین و والاترین وجودی است که در پهنۀ گیتی ظاهر شده است. در این سال که مراسم بزرگداشت صدمین سال صعود مبارک و نیز اعلان پیمان ایزدی برگزار می‌شود، سزاوار است به یاد آوریم که چه عواملی ظهور جمال قدم را در مقایسه با دیگر ظهورات الهی ممتاز می‌دارد و منحصر به فرد می‌سازد.

یکتائی و یگانگی ظهور حضرت بهاءالله را می‌توان از دو سو تشخیص داد: یکی از لحاظ تاریخی و آن عبارت از مقایسۀ ظهور مبارک با دیگر مظاهر امرالله است و دیگری از لحاظ تعالیم که آن بررسی مقام روحانی آثار مبارکه‌ای است که از قلم جمال قدم نازل گردیده است.

تاریخ نویسان با مطالعۀ حیات و تعالیم حضرت بهاءالله یکتائی ظهور مبارک را اذعان نموده‌اند و حتی با معیارهای غیردینی نیز به اهمیت آن معترف شده‌اند. اندک افرادی که به فراوانی آثار حضرت بهاءالله از خود اثر به جا نهاده‌اند. در دارالآثار مرکز جهانی بهائی بیش از ۱۵ هزار فقره از حضرت بهاءالله به جا مانده است که یا به قلم مبارک نگارش یافته یا به فرمان الهی از زبان مبارک جاری و بوسیله کاتب نوشته شده است. بیشتر این آثار در پاسخ به پرسش‌های افراد مرقوم شده است. برخی از آن‌ها به حجم يك كتاب است و در حال حاضر حتی پس از گذشت يك قرن تنها قسمت‌هائی از آن انتشار یافته یا ترجمه شده است.

یکی از اموری که شگفتی آدمی را برمی‌انگیزد شیوۀ نزول آثار حضرت بهاءالله است. بعضی از افراد شاهد نزول الواح بوده‌اند. یکی از اینان، ‎آیادی ایادی‎ امرالله، جناب طرازالله سمندری که در سال ۱۸۹۲ به حضور مبارک رسید، خاطرات خود را دربارۀ چگونگی نزول آیات اینچنین نوشته است:

”در آن ایام میرزا آقا جان به امر حضرت بهاءالله عریضه‌هائی را که به حضور مبارک می‌رسید، قرائت می‌کرد و سپس جواب آن‌ها را چنانکه هیکل مبارک نازل می‌فرمودند، بر کاغذ می‌آورد. آیات با سرعتی شگفت‌آور و بدون وقفه یا تأمل قبلی نازل می‌شد. بسیاری از مطالبی که نوشته می‌شد به دلیل سرعت نزول ناخوانا بود. بعضی از آن را احدی نمی‌توانست بخواند؛ حتی خود میرزا آقا جان هم در برخی موارد نمی‌توانست سر از آنچه نوشته بود در بیاورد و به ناچار از هیکل مبارک استمداد توضیح و راهنمائی می‌کرد... حقیر در دو نوبت این موهبت نصیبش شد که در حین نزول آیات حضور یابد... همانطور که هیکل مبارک در بیت مشی می‌فرمودند، آیات از فم مبارك نازل می‌شد و کاتبان آن را مرقوم می‌نمودند... زبان از بیان چگونگی نزول آیات عاجز است.“(ترجمه)

حضرت اعلی در بیان فارسی از کیفیت نزول آیات سخن رانده‌اند و از آنجا که حضرت باب و حضرت بهاءالله در ذات خود یکی بیش نیستند، آنچه حضرت اعلی دربارۀ خود فرموده‌اند در مورد حضرت بهاءالله نیز مسلم است:

”...از نفسی که بیست و چهار سال از عمر او گذشته و از علومی که کل به آنها متعلّم می‌گشته متعری بوده و حال به این نوع که تلاوت آیات می‌نماید، بدون فکر و تأمل و در عرض پنج ساعت هزار بیت در مناجات می‌نویسد بدون سکون قلم. و تفاسیر و شؤون علمیه در علو مقامات معرفت و توحید ظاهر می‌نماید که کل علماء و حکماء در آن موارد اعتراف به عجز از ادراك آنها نموده‌، شبهه‌ای نیست که کل ذلك من عندالله است. علمائی که از اول عمر تا آخر عمر اجتهاد نموده‌ چگونه در وقت نوشتن به سطری عربی دقت نموده و آخرالامر کلماتی است که لایق ذكر نیست.“(منتخبات آیات از آثار حضرت نقطۀ اولی، ص ۷۷)

کیفیت آثار حضرت بهاءالله و حضرت باب تنها در رابطه با علمای زمان متفاوت نیست بلکه در رابطه با مظاهر پیشین نیز مانندی ندارد.

از چگونگی نزول آیات در زمان حضرت محمد شروحی بسیار جسته گریخته در دست است و هیچ وصفی از چگونگی نزول آیات در زمان حضرت عیسی و موسی و بودا و زردشت موجود نیست. آثار نزولی مظاهر قبل سال‌ها پس از صعود آنان نوشته و جمع آوری شده است.

در مورد حضرت ابراهیم که حدود ۲ هزار سال پیش از ظهور حضرت مسیح ظاهر شد، هیچ مدرکی در کتاب مقدس ذکر نشده و تاریخ‌نویسان بر آنند که هيچيك از داستان‌هائی که دربارۀ ابراهیم گفته شده، قبل از سال ۱۰۰۰ پیش از میلاد نوشته نشده است.

حضرت موسی در حدود سال ۱۲۰۰ قبل از میلاد صعود فرمود و شرح نزول آیاتش تا حدود دو قرن فقط شفاهاً نقل می‌شد.

دوران حضرت زردشت را از سال ۵۰۰ تا ۱۲۰۰ قبل از میلاد تخمین زده‌اند. بنا به روایات مذهبی همۀ آثار مبارکۀ حضرت زردشت پس از آنکه اسکندر مقدونی در سال ۳۳۰ قبل از میلاد به ایران حمله کرد، سوخته شد و آنچه به نام ‎اوستاد اوستا‎ در دست است بازسازی فقراتی است که از قبل به جا مانده است.

کلمات حضرت بودا تا ۵ قرن — یا حتی بیش از آن — صرفاً به طور شفاهی نقل می‌شد. حضرت ولی امرالله فرموده‌اند که از اصالت آثار حضرت بودا نمی‌توان مطمئن بود.

در مورد سخنان حضرت عیسی نیز به شهادت نخستین آثار مسیحی که توسط پولس رسول نگاشته شده است اطلاع چندانی در دست نیست و اناجیل از ۴۰ تا ۶۰ سال پس از شهادت حضرت مسیح نگاشته و جمع‌آوری شده است.

تنها اثر نزولی گذشته که اصالت تام دارد، قرآن کریم است. قرآن در زمان حیات حضرت محمد نگارش یافت و چند سال پس از صعود آن حضرت جمع‌آوری شد. حضرت ولی عزیز امرالله بر اصالت تام قرآن صحه نهاده‌اند.

بدین ترتیب تفاوت بنیادی در میان آثار مبارکۀ حضرت بهاءالله و دیگر مظاهر مقدسه آشکار می‌گردد. حضرت اعلی فرموده بودند که مظهر بعدی — یا به اصطلاح مبارك ”من يظهره الله“ — بسی بالاتر و والاتر از ظهور ایشان خواهد بود. حضرت بهاءالله نیز تفاوت ذاتی بین آثار قبل و آثار مبارکۀ امر بهائی را ظرفیت و بلوغ روحانی مردم این دوره نسبت به مردم دوره‌های پیشین ذکر فرموده‌اند.

همین تفاوت بنیادی که در بین آثار این دوره و دوره‌های قبل وجود دارد، در حیات و شرایط زمانی حضرت بهاءالله در مقایسه با ظهورات پیشین نیز آشکار است. حتی زمان حیات بعضی از مظاهر امرالله نیز معین نیست تا چه رسد به اوضاع و شرایط تاریخی آنان و همین موضوع مانع از آن می‌شود که بررسی تاریخی دورۀ آنان به نحوی منطقی و علمی امکان یابد.

حضرت عیسی و حضرت محمد در مقایسه با سایر مظاهر امر به ما نزديك‌ترند. اما اطلاعاتی که دربارۀ این دو وجود مقدس داریم بسیار متفرق و نامتیقن است. مثلاً دانسته نیست که تاریخ تولد آنان کی بوده است.

اما در مورد حضرت بهاءالله اطلاعات دقیقی — البته بالنسبه به مظاهر پیشین — در دست است. همچنین دربارۀ کسانی که با هیکل مبارك به نحوی ارتباط داشتند و نیز راجع به رویدادهائی که در زمان حیات مبارک وقوع یافته معلومات گسترده‌ای در اختیار است. به برخی از این رویدادها در آثار حضرت بهاءالله اشاره شده یا مطالبی دربارۀ آن‌ها در الواح ذکر گردیده است. به همین جهت دربارۀ حیات جمال قدم و کیفیت نزول آیات مبارکه اطلاعاتی موجود است که قبلاً سابقه نداشته است.

مورخان آینده این جنبه ظهور حضرت بهاءالله را با دقت بیشتری بررسی خواهند کرد و خواهند توانست از کیفیت حیات مظاهر قبل نیز با استفاده از معلوماتی که در دست است، اطلاعاتی ‎حاصل نمود حاصل نمایند‎.

یکی دیگر از مواردی که ظهور حضرت بهاءالله را منحصر به فرد می‌سازد مطالبی است که هیکل مبارك دربارۀ ظهور خود بیان داشته‌اند. حضرت ولی امرالله در ”دور بهائی“ فرموده‌اند که مظاهر الهی از زمان آدم تا زمان حضرت اعلی کور نبوت را تشکیل می‌دادند. با ظهور حضرت بهاءالله کور نبوت پایان یافت و کور تحقق نبوات آغاز گردید.

کور آدم حدود ۶ هزار سال به طول انجامید. با ظهور حضرت بهاءالله کور جدیدی به وجود آمد که طول آن حد اقل ۵۰۰ هزار سال است و خود مشتمل بر دوره‌های گوناگونی خواهد بود.

به شهادت آثار حضرت بهاءالله و همچنین به گواهی تاریخ بشری می‌توان گفت که حضرت بهاءالله ظهوری منحصر به فرد و بزرگ‌ترین مظهری است که در پهنۀ گیتی ظاهر شده است.

۹ جولای سالروز شهادت حضرت رب اعلی

[Page 13]

پیام‌های بیت العدل اعظم الهی

MESSAGES FROM THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE

ترجمه پیام بیت العدل اعظم خطاب به بهائیان عالم مورخ ۷ جون ۱۹۹۲

تأمل درباره مراسم تجلیل و تکریمی که چند روز قبل به مناسبت قرن صعود جمال اقدس ابهی در ارض اقدس برگزار گردید، ما را بر آن می‌دارد که مراتب اعجاب و تحسینی را که از شکوه و عظمت آنچه گذشت احساس می‌کنیم به عالم بهائی ابراز داریم.

این مراسم گر چه طبیعتًا ستایش انگیز بود و مایه اهتزاز جان و وجدان یاران گردید، اما اجتماع سه هزار نفر از احبای عالم به نمایندگی از دویست کشور و سرزمین مختلف جهان که در بین آنان یکصد و سیزده نفر از فارسان و باسلان امر حضرت بهاءالله نیز حضور داشتند از لحاظ تنوع افراد شرکت‌کننده در اجتماعات امری تا کنون بی‌سابقه و نظیر و منظرهٔ آن مانند گلستانی دل‌انگیز از افراد انسانی جلوه می‌نمود که جمیع حواس آدمی را به خود معطوف می‌داشت و بینندگان را مسحور زیبائی و سرور و جلال می‌ساخت.

حدائق بهجی هرگز شکوهمندتر از این جلوه‌گری نکرده بود. آستان معبود محبوب را شاکریم که چنین اجتماع شایسته‌ای در چنین سالگردی مخصوص میسر گردید تا نشانه اتساع حیرت‌بخش دامنه تأثیرات قوای نافذه الهیه در سراسر جهان باشد.

امید است که الطاف و برکات حاصله از این تجارب ملکوتی در یاران عزیز نیروئی بیشتر و دلگرمی جدیدتری ایجاد کند تا مجهودات خود را با جرأت و شهامتی فزاینده ادامه دهند و توانائی خود را برای اعلان نام و ترویج امر حضرت بهاءالله در طی سال مقدس که به این مبارکی آغاز شده، افزایش بخشند.

بیت العدل اعظم

ترجمه پیام بیت العدل اعظم به مناسبت صعود امة الله ایزابل صبری عضو هیئت مشاورین در دارالتبلیغ بین‌المللی مورخ ۱۸ جون ۱۹۹۲

از فقدان امة الله ایزابل صبری مروج برازنده و محبوب امر الهی و عضو دارالتبلیغ بین‌المللی قلوب به شدت محزون است. خدمات درخشان و خستگی‌ناپذیرش در میادین مهاجرت و امور اداری امرالله که سالیان متمادی ابتدا در جزائر بریتانیا و سپس در افریقا ادامه داشت از سال ۱۹۸۳ به بعد به اکلیل مجهوداتی فراموش نشدنی و پرارزش در مرکز جهانی بهائی مزین گردید. صداقت و صفای زندگی نمونه این امة موقنه مساعی مجدانه و شجاعانه ایشان را در نصرت و اعلاء حقائق و دفاع از مصالح امر نازنینی که عاشقانه به آن دل بسته بود، شدیداً تقویت می‌نمود.

برای ارتقای روح نورانیش در ملکوت ابهی ملکوتی که در آن برایش اجری جزیل مقدر است، در اعتاب مقدسه دعا می‌کنیم. توصیه می‌شود در مشارق اذکار و نیز در جوامع بهائی در سراسر عالم محافل تذکر شایسته‌ای به افتخار وی منعقد گردد.

بیت العدل اعظم

بزرگداشت صعود حضرت بهاءالله در ارض اقدس

OBSERVANCE OF THE ‎ASCENTION ASCENSION‎ OF BAHA’U’LLAH

در مراسم بزرگداشت صدمین سال صعود حضرت بهاءالله ۳۰۰۰ نفر به نمایندگی از ۲۰۰ کشور و سرزمین گوناگون و اکثر فاتحان روحانی مناطق مختلف جهان در ارض اقدس گرد هم آمدند.

صبح روز ۲۸ می یاران در مراسمی که برای تجلیل از فاتحان روحانی سرزمین‌های جهان تشکیل شده بود، شرکت جستند. در این مراسم طومار تذهیب شده‌ای که حاوی نام ۲۵۷ تن فاتحان بود در يك استوانه فلزی نهاده شد و در محفظه‌ای در آستانه روضه مبارکه قرار گرفت. همچنین دستخطی که در تجلیل از حضرت بهاءالله توسط معهد اعلی صادر شده بود، قرائت شد.

از ساعت يك صبح ۲۹ می یاران در روضه مبارکه حضور یافتند و به دعا و مناجات پرداختند و سپس زیارت‌نامه مبارک تلاوت گردید.

برنامه‌های کنگره جهانی

WORLD CONGRESS

تاریخ تشکیل دومین کنگره جهانی بهائی در مرکز اجتماعات جیکوب جاویتس در شهر نیویورک روز به روز نزدیک‌تر می‌شود. البته یاران عزیز از اهمیت کنگره جهانی و سال مقدس آگاهی دارند و می‌دانند که مهم‌ترین موضوع در رابطه با این مجمع تاریخی در وهله اول کیفیت روحانی جلسات و بزرگداشت حضرت بهاءالله و تذکر درباره عهد و پیمان الهی است.

اما علاوه بر برنامه‌های اصلی کنگره، کنسرت‌ها و نمایش‌ها و اجتماعات الفت و برنامه‌های آموزشی در هفت هتل برگزار خواهد شد. یکی از جالب‌ترین این برنامه‌ها "خیمه حضرت عبدالبهاء" نام دارد که قرار است دیدار حضرت عبدالبهاء را از شهر نیویورک در سال ۱۹۱۲ به نمایش گذارد.

چنانکه عزیزان ایرانی استحضار دارند، عهد و پیمان حضرت بهاءالله در غرب جهان توسط حضرت عبدالبهاء، مبین منصوص جمال قدم، اعلان گردید. این رویداد تاریخی در روز ۹ می سال ۱۹۱۲ صورت وقوع پذیرفت. "خیمه حضرت عبدالبهاء" در واقع بزرگداشت آن روز و آن رویداد است.

برخی از تصاویر و مطالب مربوط به آن رویداد تاریخی در این خیمه به نمایش گذاشته خواهد شد. این خیمه برای بازدید برگزیده‌ای از افراد غیربهائی و نیز یارانی که در کنگره شرکت نمایند، بر پا خواهد شد. کسانی که از "خیمه حضرت عبدالبهاء" دیدار کنند با بسیاری از بریده‌های جرائد و عکس‌های مربوط به سفر حضرت عبدالبهاء، رو برو خواهند شد و نمونه‌هایی از مواد و مدارک راجع به اوضاع شهر نیویورک را، به صورتی که در آن زمان بوده، خواهند دید.

حضرت عبدالبهاء، در طی دیدار خود از نیویورک اظهار داشته بودند که تعداد ساکنان منهتن و حومه آن بیش از جمعیت کل ایران بوده است. بعید نیست که در نظر همراهان حضرت عبدالبهاء، چنین می‌نموده است که نمایندگان عالم بشری در محل اقامت آن حضرت جمع آمده بودند تا صلای وحدت و پیام عهد و پیمان را در مدینه میثاق بشنوند.

یاران با دیدار از این خیمه و دیدن تصاویر و مدارک مذکور از شکوه و بزرگی آن به شگفتی خواهند آمد. تمام شرکت‌کنندگان در کنگره جهانی این فرصت را خواهند یافت که از این خیمه دیدار نمایند.

لازم به تذکر است که علاوه بر این نمایشگاه، برنامه‌های بسیاری در دست تهیه و طرح است و بسیاری از احبای بااستعداد به اجراء برنامه‌های گوناگون در کنگره جهانی، بزرگ‌ترین اجتماع اهل بهاء، در يك محل، خواهند پرداخت.

موفقیت در تبلیغ مانگ‌ها

SUCCESS IN TEACHING HMONGS

مانگ‌ها یکی از قبیله‌های جنوب شرقی آسیایند. مؤسسه تبلیغی مانگ‌های شهر سکرامنتو در ایالت کالیفرنیا اخیراً به موفقیت‌های چشمگیری در زمینه تبلیغ امر مبارک دست یافته است.

شش نفر از احبای مانگ در این مؤسسه تبلیغی عضویت دارند و تعهدی که این افراد در خصوص انتشار امر الهی به ظهور رسانده‌اند، منجر به فعالیت‌های گوناگونی برای ابلاغ کلام الهی به هم‌نژادان‌شان شده است.

بر اثر این فعالیت‌ها چندین نفر از جمله یکی از سران قبیله‌ای مانگ امر مبارک را پذیرفته‌اند. در هر یک از جلسات تبلیغی آثار امری زیارت شده و يك نوار ویدیوئی به زبان مانگ نمایش داده شده است. و ناگفته نماند که روح و ریحانی که در این جلسات جاری بوده نیز جاذب قلوب ‎متجریان متحریان‎ حقیقت گردیده است.

چنانکه در شماره‌های پیشین این نشریه به آگاهی یاران رسیده، برخی از احبای ایرانی نیز در خدمات مربوط به تبلیغ مانگ‌ها شرکت فعالانه داشته‌اند. در واقع به علت نزدیکی آداب و رسوم و روحیات ایرانیان با مردم جنوب شرقی آسیا، احبای ایرانی می‌توانند به خدمات چشمگیری توفیق یابند و بدین ترتیب در این سال مقدس بسیاری از این افراد مستعد را در خیل ستایندگان اسم اعظم وارد آورند.

امیدواریم که خدمات عزیزان ایرانی در این میدان همچنان ادامه یابد باشد که قحط زدگان مائده آسمانی از خوان نعمت ایزدی بی‌بهره نمانند.

حقوق الله

حقوق الله HUQUQU’LLAH

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

Dr. Amin Banani Santa Monica, CA. 90402

Dr. Daryush Haghighi Rocky River, OH. 44116

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

[Page 14]

Siendo Pioneros del Frente Interno en los Estados Unidos

La necesidad de esta Hora

“La necesidad de esta Hora es la enseñanza aquí en este país. Sólo se puede lograr esta meta con un nuevo espíritu de dedicación y consagración de parte de los amigos, cada uno en su propio país, en su propio hogar. Se están logrando victorias milagrosas en las áreas difíciles vírgenes, porque los pioneros han consagrado sus vidas a la misión noble en que se han lanzado. Los amigos en sus localidades deben mostrar esta misma consagración y dedicación. Nunca deben dejar que pase un día sin enseñar a algún alma, confiando en Bahá’u’lláh que la semilla crecerá. Los amigos deben buscar almas puras, ganar su confianza, y entonces enseñar a esa persona cuidadosamente hasta que sea Bahá’í, y entonces educarle hasta que sea un apoyo firme y activo de la Fe” (En nombre de Shoghi Effendi, citado en Bahá’í News, enero 1957, p.1 -- traducción no oficial).

“EL PODEROSO ‎o y y‎ loable esfuerzo ejercido por varios pioneros... debe...ser aumentado, doblado, más bien triplicado, y debe manifestarse no sólo en las tierras extranjeras... sino a través de lo largo y lo ancho entero de la Unión Americana, y particularmente en las ciudades con metas, pues hasta ahora el trabajo se ha estancado, y que debe... llegar a ser el lugar de las mejores hazañas que este país hasta ahora haya visto” (Shoghi Effendi, Citadel of Faith, pp. 127-128) (traducción no oficial).

“Las asambleas del continente norteamericano, constituyen la base para las operaciones gigantescas destinadas a calentar e iluminar, bajo los auspicios Bahá’ís americanos, los cinco continentes del globo terrestre, no deben, en ningún tiempo y bajo ninguna circunstancia, permitir disminuir en número o deteriorarse en su fuerza y su influencia. El movimiento de pioneros, sea pobladores o maestros ambulantes, que en campos tan distintos de esta base, ha mostrado tan maravillosamente una vitalidad, debe, dentro de los límites de la patria misma, ser ininterrumpido ni debe sufrir decaimiento. Los grupos y centros aislados tan esmeradamente formados y establecidos deben, conjuntamente con esta obligación muy digna y esencial, ser mantenidos, criados y si es posible, multiplicados” (Shoghi Effendi Citadel of Faith, p. 75) (traducción no oficial).

Requisitos previos espirituales

“Quienquiera se levante a ayudar a nuestra Causa en este día, y llame en su ayuda las huestes de un carácter loable y una conducta recta, la influencia que fluye de tal acción, ciertamente será difundida por todo el mundo” (Bahá’u’lláh, Pasajes de los Escritos de Bahá’u’lláh, pág. 190-191).

“Quienquiera se levante entre vosotros para enseñar la Causa de su Señor, que ante todo, se enseñe a sí mismo, para que su palabra atraiga los corazones de los que le escuchan. A menos que se enseñe a sí mismo, las palabras de su boca no influirán el corazón del buscador” (Bahá’u’lláh, Pasajes de los Escritos de Bahá’u’lláh, pág. 184).

“QUIENQUIERA ‎a que‎ se levante a enseñar nuestra Causa debe necesariamente desprenderse de todas las cosas terrenales, y debe considerar, en todo momento, el triunfo de nuestra Fe como su objetivo supremo. Esto, ciertamente, ha sido decretado en la Tabla Guardada. Y cuando determine dejar su hogar, por amor de la Causa de su Señor, que ponga toda su confianza en Dios, como la mejor provisión para su viaje, y que se atavie con el manto de la virtud. Así ha sido decretado por Dios, el Todopoderoso y el Todo Alabado” (Bahá’u’lláh, Pasajes de los Escritos de Bahá’u’lláh, pág. 222-223).

Preparación para ser pioneros en este país

“Los amigos deben darse cuenta de que es el esfuerzo e iniciativa individual que se necesita para la victoria en nuestras localidades, igual que en las áreas vírgenes. Todo el mundo debe recordar que es el ‘Espíritu Santo’ que nos guía y entonces el maestro debe llegar a ser como un instrumento a través del cual el Espíritu Santo puede alcanzar al alma en búsqueda.

“El amado Guardián ha recalcado una y otra vez, que para enseñar efectivamente la Fe, el individuo debe estudiar profundamente la Palabra Divina, beber sus aguas que dan vida, y festejar sobre sus enseñanzas gloriosas. El debe, entonces, meditar sobre la importancia de la Palabra, y al encontrar sus profundidades espirituales, orar por guía y ayuda. Pero lo más importante, después de la oración es la acción. Después que uno ha orado y meditado, debe levantarse, confiando completamente en la guía y confirmación de Bahá’u’lláh para enseñar su Fe. Perseverancia en acción es esencial lo mismo que sabiduría y audacia son necesarias para enseñar efectivamente. El individuo tiene que sacrificar todo a esta gran meta, y entonces las victorias triunfarán” (en nombre de Shoghi Effendi, citado en Bahá’í News, enero 1957, pp. 1-2) (traducción no oficial).

Para una lista de las metas de pioneros en este país y contactos para estas localidades, favor de llamar o escribir al: National Teaching Committee Office, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, (708) 869-9039.

Usando un equipo de enseñanza de tiempo completo

Como ha sido exhortado por la Asamblea Espiritual Nacional en su Plan de Enseñanza para el Año Final del Plan de Seis Años, grupos pequeños de creyentes ya se están levantando en varias áreas del país para dedicarse al servicio de tiempo completo de la Causa por varias duraciones de tiempo.

ESTOS grupos están bajo la guía y dirección de las instituciones en cuya jurisdicción los equipos están enseñando. Para muchas Asambleas, dirigir los esfuerzos de los maestros de tiempo completo es una nueva experiencia. Las Asambleas, tal vez, no están seguras cómo usarlos o tal vez no tienen las estructuras puestas para usarlos efectivamente. Sin embargo, si son capaces de desarrollar maneras constructivas para organizar, dirigir, y guiar a estos maestros de jornada completa, la energía espiritual preciosa de los amigos que postergan los otros planes en sus vidas y ofrecen su tiempo y esfuerzo para servir la Causa en esta capacidad puede producir resultados maravillosos.

Un equipo de enseñanza de tiempo completo puede ayudar con los esfuerzos de enseñanza de una comunidad Bahá’í de varias maneras. Por ejemplo, un equipo puede ayudar a establecer y mantener un instituto de enseñanza o participar cada día en un proyecto de enseñanza en marcha. Un equipo puede estar disponible para visitar regularmente a los creyentes nuevos para ayudar a educarlos y profundizarlos, y ayudar a los creyentes nuevos con sus primeros esfuerzos de enseñar a sus familias, vecinos y amigos. Si una comunidad tiene varios jóvenes y niños, un equipo podría juntar a estos creyentes jóvenes, entrenarlos como maestros para la Causa, y movilizarlos para enseñar. Un equipo también podría proveer personal de tiempo completo en un Centro Bahá’í o un Centro de Información Bahá’í, saludando a visitantes, contestando preguntas por teléfono, o alfabetizando o dando clases de niños.

Si se ofrece los servicios de un equipo de tiempo completo a una Asamblea Espiritual Local, se sugiere que la Asamblea se reúna con los miembros del equipo lo más pronto posible para discutir las habilidades y los talentos de los miembros del equipo, consultar sobre maneras en que el equipo pueda integrarse en el plan de enseñanza de la comunidad, y para decidir cuáles tareas específicas el equipo hará. La Asamblea debe continuar reuniéndose con el equipo de vez en cuando mientras estas tareas están implementadas para evaluar y continuar ‎guiar guiando‎ los esfuerzos del grupo.

Declaración sobre Bahá’u’lláh

Durante el Año Santo, Ridván 1992 hasta Ridván 1993, los Bahá’ís a través del mundo darán “un recuerdo apropiado al Centenario de la Ascensión de Bahá’u’lláh y de la inauguración de Su Convenio mundial unificador.” Mientras tal recuerdo apropiado requerirá reflexión y meditación sobre el significado de estos eventos, también requerirá acción “para pregonar el Nombre de Bahá’u’lláh a través del globo terrestre, para que sea una eminencia conocida en las conciencias de los pueblos en todas partes.” (cita de la Casa Universal de Justicia, 1991 Mensaje de Ridván, traducción no oficial).

A petición de la Casa Universal de Justicia, su Oficina de Información Pública ha preparado una declaración corta sobre la vida y el trabajo de Bahá’u’lláh para ayudar a los amigos a informar a la gente sobre Bahá’u’lláh y el significado de Su revelación. En una carta del 3 de abril, 1991, la Casa Universal de Justicia anunció que: “llevando el nombre de ‘Bahá’u’lláh,’ la declaración está destinada primordialmente para la distribución extensa al público; sin embargo, como pronto se verá, tiene gran valor como una fuente de estudio e inspiración para los amigos mismos.

Esta declaración extraordinaria está disponible en forma de folleto en el Servicio de Distribución Bahá’í (Bahá’í Distribution Service). El precio de una edición general atractiva es $1.50, mientras que el precio para una edición para presentación es $5.95. El Comité Nacional de Enseñanza urge que los amigos estudien esta declaración cuidadosamente, que la compartan con sus amigos, familia, y socios, y que la usen en sus esfuerzos de enseñanza en la comunidad. “Ayudarme es enseñar Mi Causa.” —Bahá’u’lláh (traducción no oficial)

‘Pavilion of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’ among many events designed to enhance appeal of World Congress

The fast-approaching second Bahá’í World Congress in New York City will be the site of a variety of activities and events, in addition to plenary sessions at the Jacob Javits Convention Center.

Seven hotels will host concerts, dramatic presentations, fellowship gatherings, and/or learning activities.

The most intriguing and moving among these many activities will be a “Pavilion of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá,” which will depict the visit of the Master to New York City in 1912.

The Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh was proclaimed in the West by His appointed Successor, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, in New York on May 9, 1912. The Pavilion of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá celebrates that unique event and the promulgation of the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh by the Center of the Covenant Himself.

In it will be captured some of the images and events of that remarkable turning point in Bahá’í history.

Through a wide selection of photographic materials and a collection of media coverage of His visit, those visiting the Pavilion will be afforded a glimpse of New York City as it was when ‘Abdu’l-Bahá proclaimed His Father’s message to the multitudes who heard Him speak in churches, at universities, and in private gatherings.

Designed to be viewed by an audience of selected non-Bahá’ís, as well as the friends who attend the World Congress, the Pavilion offers one an opportunity to experience something of the cultural milieu of New York and of the world of 1912.

The Master commented during His visit that more people were crowded into Manhattan and its suburbs than could be found, at the time, in all of Persia. It must have seemed to His companions that representatives of all humanity were being drawn to that spot as ‘Abdu’l-Bahá raised Bahá’u’lláh’s call to humankind in the City of the Covenant.

Bahá’ís will experience a feeling of awe and wonder as they glimpse these scenes from the life of the Exemplar of the Cause during His visit to the West. Everyone attending the World Congress will be given an opportunity to visit this unique exhibit and will be assigned a time for that purpose.

Many other exciting events are being planned. Talented Bahá’ís from around the world will perform during this largest gathering of Bahá’ís in the history of the Faith.

Our Sacred Obligation National Bahá’í Fund Wilmette, IL 60091

[Page 15]

Lub Rooj Sablaj Loj Bahá’í Thoob Ntiaj Teb (Bahá’í World Congress) Nyob New York City, November 1992

Pib txij lub 4 hlis ntuj tim 21, xyoo 1992 no, tsoom ntseeg Bahá’ís yuav qhib muaj kev nqaum paj nqaum nruas ua hmoov txhawb siab rau hauv lub xyoo tseem ceeb no, hu tias yog ib lub xyoo txwmtiam "Holy year." Qhov no yog ua hmoov nco txog hnub txwm 100 xyoo xam txij thaum yawg Bahá’u’lláh tau tas sim neej thiab yog hnub pib tshaj txoj hmoo zoo kev ntseeg Bahá’í kom nrov ncha mus thoob qb ntuj. Muaj ob yam tseem ceeb tshaj plaws yuav tshwm sim tuaj rau hauv lub xyoo no. Thawj yam yog yuav tsa kom muaj ib lub koomtxoos rau lub 5 hlis ntuj hnub tim 29. Qhov no yog lub koomtxoos tas los ua hmoov nco txog hnub yawg Bahá’u’lláh tau tas sim neej thiab nws yog ib hnub tseem ceeb heev rau tsoom ntseeg Bahá’ís.

Yam thib ob yog lub Rooj Sablaj Loj Bahá’í Thoob Ntiaj Teb (Bahá’í World Congress), uas yuav tsa muaj nyob rau tuam ceeb New York City pib thaum lub 11 hlis ntuj hnub tim 23 txog 26, xyoo 1992 no. Muaj ntau txhiaj leej cov ntseeg Bahá’ís nyob thoob qab ntuj yuav tuaj koom rau lub rooj sablaj no thiab lub caij ntawm yuav muaj kev sib sablaj tham tseem ceeb ntau yam hauv txhua hnub, ua ke ntawd kuj yuav muaj kev nqaum paj nruas (Concerts) thiab lwm yam kev lom zem rau ib cag ntxiv thiab.

Tus nqe mus koom lub rooj sablaj loj thoob ntiaj teb no ib leeg yog $50.00. Cov nyiaj no yog yuav coj mus them tej nqe ntaub ntawv twj siv hauv cov rooj sablaj, thiab nge tsheb (Bus) es yuav xa koj mus los ntawm lub Hotel koj pw mus rau tom chaw sablaj. Tsis tas li ntawm xwb, nws tseem tshuav tej nqe xaub hotel pw, nqe muas pib day hlau mus rau New York thiab rov qab. Tshaj ntawd, koj kuj tseem yuav tau npaj me ntsis nyiaj kom txaus muas zaub mov noj rau koj tus kheej hauv tsib hnub es koj mus koom sablaj nyob pem thiab. Nej lub tsev teev ntuj bahá’í (Local Spiritual Assembly) nyob hauv nej lub nroog koj nyob ko, lawv yeej muaj ntaub ntawv tshaj piav qhia txog tej xwm es hais saum no huv si, thiab lawv muaj ntau yam ntawv muab tswv yim qhia pab saib yuav ua li cas koj thiaj sau npe (register) thiab mus koom tau lub rooj sablaj thoob ntiaj teb (Bahá’í World Congress) hais no.

Tsev teev ntuj Bahá’í muaj peev xwm yuav qhia rau koj paub tias ua cas koj thiaj yuav thov tau me ntsis nyiaj pab koj kom tau mus koom. Yog tias lub tsev teev ntuj ntawm lawv tsis paub txog, koj muaj cuab kav nug thov lawy kom lawv pab koj hu mus rau lub hoobkas ceev nyiaj txiag nyob rau Bahá’í National Center (Please contact: the Treasurer's Office at the Bahá’í National Center) thiab hais kom lawv lis tej dej num koj xav tau pub rau koj. Los puas koj hu mus tham ntsib nrog tus Auxiliary Board member es nyob ze nej tau ib yam.

Lub tuam tsev tswj kev ncaj ncees ntiaj teb vam thiab cia siab tias txhua leej cov ntseeg Bahá’í yuav ua tiag ntxeem tuaj rau New York kom tau thaum lub 11 hlis ntuj. Peb vam thiab xav ntsoov tias koj yuav tuaj koom tau, xwb no.

of Germany have at all times recognized an important task in the dialogue with other religions. Surely, this year's anniversary of the Bahá’ís will give a new, valuable impetus to inter-religious dialogue. I wish that the Bahá’ís of Germany and throughout the world may live their Faith in freedom and in peaceful bonds with other religions."

Other written messages of greeting were received by Nobel Peace Prize winner Willy Brandt, who referred to the principle of the unity of mankind; and by the philosopher and physicist Prof. Carl Friedrich von Weizsacker, brother of the German President, who said: "I have great esteem for Bahá’u’lláh. I believe that what he defines as the call to all religions, is exactly corresponding with truth. I wish that..the world in general will listen to what you are saying."

The representative of the City of Frankfurt, one of the 200 non-Bahá’í guests at the event, opened the ceremony with words of praise for Bahá’u’lláh and His teachings; another speaker, Dr. Johannes Lahnemann, a professor at the Theological University of Nurnberg and a representative from the Christian community, repeatedly referred to Bahá’u’lláh and His principles in his talk on the role of religion in society.

Others present included representatives of the Regional Parliament, the Catholic and Evangelical Churches, humanitarian and interreligious organizations, professors, journalists and others.

Invoking the name of God, the President of Brazil's Chamber of Deputies, Mr. Ibsen Valls Pinheiro, opened a solemn session of the Chamber on May 28, called to observe the centenary of the Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh. More than 45 Federal Deputies were present, as well as senators, diplomats and prominent persons. President Pinheiro delivered the first address testifying to the magnitude of the personality and teachings of Bahá’u’lláh, quoting on several occasions His utterances concerning the establishment of a new World Order. Seven leading Deputies, including one woman, also gave eloquent testimonies on the life and teachings of Bahá’u’lláh and the transforming power that He set in motion.

These talks, which lasted about two hours, included direct references to the beleaguered Bahá’í community of Iran, "those who with their lives testify to the ideals of justice and brotherhood"; to the social projects developed by the Faith in Brazil and around the world; to the unity of the Bahá’í community, "free from divisions"; to the Name of Bahá’u’lláh, "The Glory of God—what a beautiful name!"; to His teachings focusing on education, world government, equality between men and women, the elimination of prejudices and protection of the environment, with particular emphasis on Bahá’í participation at the forthcoming United Nations Conference on the Environment (UNCED) and the Global Forum.

President Pinheiro crowned the event by presenting the message addressed to him by the Universal House of Justice, reading it with much respect and emotion. He ended the session by reading the prayer contained in that letter.

The session was followed by the launching of a commemorative rubber stamp issued by the Brazilian Federal Postal Service. The stamp was first used by President Pinheiro and dedicated to the staunch Bahá’í community of Iran.

UNIMAGINABLE POTENCY

The Universal House of Justice, anticipating the spiritual potency of the events of the Holy Year, wrote the following in its Ridván 1992 message:

"A year charged with happenings of such sacred import is bound to yield consequences of unimaginable potency. The immediate outcome is, however, impossible to predict, nor can it be fruitfully speculated about. Rather should we direct our thoughts to the meaning of the solemn occasions which this year is set apart to memorialize.

"For the purpose of the Holy year is not fulfilled by public memorials alone, befitting as they will be. Essential to its purpose is the opportunity it offers for inner reflection on the part of every Bahá’í individual....This is a time of retreat into one's innermost being, to the dwelling-place of the Spirit of Bahá, that interior to which He summons us when He says: ‘Turn thy sight unto thyself, that thou mayest find Me standing within thee, mighty, powerful and self-subsisting.’"

Bahá’ís in Dubuque, Iowa, give ‘Promise,’ ‘Vision’ to local officials, educators

During May the Bahá’í community of Dubuque, Iowa, was able to distribute copies of "The Promise of World Peace" and "The Vision of Race Unity" to local officials and educators on three occasions. Copies were presented May 1 to a 10-member Iowa Advisory Committee to the U.S. Human Rights Commission, with permission to do so given by the National Spiritual Assembly; on May 13 to the Dubuque School Board and the superintendent of schools; and on May 18 to the mayor, city manager and members of the city council.

The meetings on May 13 and May 18 were covered by local public access cable television.

The mayor responded to the presentation with kind words about the Bahá’í community in general and its involvement in planning a counter-event to a Ku Klux Klan rally that was to be held in Dubuque on May 29.

Plans are under way to present copies of the documents in the near future to six other local organizations.

Nineteen representatives from U.S. among those who attend centenary observance in Holy Land

On June 1, 1990, the Universal House of Justice wrote to all National Spiritual Assemblies requesting that they devise a fair basis for nominating 19 individuals of the widest possible ethnic and indigenous representation from their respective communities to receive invitations to attend the commemoration in the Holy Land

The National Assembly of the United States sought recommendations from its members and the from the Counselors of individuals who have given extraordinary service to the Cause of God over an extended period of time. Invitations from the Universal House of Justice were extended to the following persons who were our representatives to the commemoration:

Charles Abercrombie, Eulalia Bobo, Oscar de Gruy, Soo Fouts, Marzieh Gail, Lionel Gonzales, Daryush Haghighi, John Halsey, Elizabeth Haynes, Fereydoun Jalali, Vernon Longie, Sam McClellan, Jorge Nossa, Olive Pretends Eagle, Sarah Pereira, Janet Rubenstein, Lauretta Voelz, Dennis Wahkinney, and Maurice Willows.

These friends have now returned to the States and are enthusiastically sharing their experiences with their fellow-believers.

Lauretta Voelz, conveying her impressions of the event, said: "I cannot really describe what it was like. It seemed during the Ascension ceremony as if we had just laid the Blessed beauty to rest in a fresh grave. It didn't seem as if a hundred years had passed! Yet it was a happy and joyful feeling.

"It was an honor and a privilege to be there. I feel like Martin Luther King, Jr., who said, ‘I have been to the mountain top. The only difference is, I climbed it, too!’"

IN MEMORIAM

Karen Archie, Venice, CA, April 1992 Inez Arviso, Scottsdale, AZ, 1991 Elizabeth Berry, New Port Richey, FL, May 1992 Willie D. Boyd, Greenville, TX, Date Unknown Ellen Brigham, Greenville, TX, 1992 Caster Burkett, Prentiss, MS, Date Unknown Melecio Corpuz, Somerton, AZ, April 1991 Jerry Crosby, Anderson, SC, May 25, 1992 Vera Derrickson, East Moline, IL, November 1991 Lee C. Elliott, Middletown, NY, May 6, 1992 Wiley Ellis Jr., Bend, OR, Date Unknown Francisca Estrada, Presidio, TX, Date Unknown Leroy K. Fouts, Atlantic Beach, FL, May 14, 1992 Naomi Franklin, Dekalb, IL, 1992 Lois Goebel, Logan, UT, April 19, 1992 Sherrie Harrington, Norman, OK, Date Unknown Alice Holmes, Kirkland, WA, May 13, 1992 Joan Hughes, Bellmawr, NJ, January 19, 1992 Ernest Jensen, Tigard, OR, May 1, 1992 Mansefield Jones, Batesburg, SC, February 1992 Elouise Lance, Bucksport, SC, Date Unknown Mattie Lansdowne, Moncks Corner, SC, Date Unknown George Magnan, Ventura, CA, April 21, 1986 Christine McKay, Boston, MA, 1990 Louise Perchero, Laveen, AZ, April 20, 1992 Dorothy Ann Person, LaGrange, IL, Date Unknown Kay Reynolds, Hesperia, CA, Date Unknown John H. Spahn, St. Helena, SC, April 7, 1992 Mary Louise Smith, Prentiss, MS, 1992 Versie Smith, Prentiss, MS, Date Unknown Elizabeth Toomer, Birmingham, AL, January 31, 1992 Filipa Valenzuela, Guadalupe, AZ, 1991 Yousef Vijeh, Tyler, TX, May 20, 1992 Vincent White, Los Angeles, CA, April 18, 1992 Abbas Yavrom, Suisun City, CA, December 11, 1991 [Page 16]In March, these youngsters in the Bahá’í children’s class of Contra Costa County, California, produced and presented a talent show to raise funds for the Arc on Mount Carmel. Through admissions and a bake sale, an audience of 60 enabled the children to raise $200 for the Arc Fund.

MOVING? TELL US YOUR NEW ADDRESS.

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

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

A. NAME(S): 1. \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ I.D. # \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Title \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ 2. \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ I.D. # \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Title \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ 3. \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ I.D. # \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Title \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ 4. \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ I.D. # \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Title \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

B. NEW RESIDENCE ADDRESS: Street address: \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ P.O. Box or Other mailing address: \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Apartment # (If applicable): \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Apartment # (If applicable): \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ City: \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ City: \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ State: \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Zip code: \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ State: \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Zip code: \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

D. NEW COMMUNITY: Name of new Bahá’í Community: \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Moving date: \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Area code / Phone number / Name: \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

F. WORK TELEPHONE NUMBER(S): Area code / Phone number / Name: \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Area code / Phone number / Name: \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

G. WE RECEIVE EXTRA COPIES BECAUSE: [ ] we do not have the same last name. We do not want extra copies, so please cancel the copy for the person(s) and I.D. number(s) f... [ ] the last names and addresses on our address labels do not match. We have listed above the full names of all family members as they should appear on the national records, their I.D. numbers, and the corrections so that we will receive only one copy.

H. I WOULD LIKE A COPY: [ ] Our household receives only one copy of The American Bahá’í. I wish to receive my own copy. I have listed my name, I.D. number and address above.

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

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

JULY

18-23: “Challenges of the Holy Year—Proclaiming Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation,” Bosch Bahá’í School, Santa Cruz, California. Also, special course for young students ages 11 and older. For information, phone 408-423-3387.

18-30: Youth Institute and Graduate Youth Institute, Bosch Bahá’í School, Santa Cruz, California. For information or to register, contact Angelina Allen, 408-423-3387.

19-24: Junior Youth Week, Louhelen Bahá’í School (313-653-5033).

24-26: Third annual Southeast Asian Bahá’í Conference, Louhelen Bahá’í School. Theme: “Connecting the Hearts of Southeast Asians to Bahá’u’lláh.” For program information, please contact the U.S. Bahá’í Refugee Office (phone 708-869-9039; FAX 708-869-0247). For registration information, please phone the Louhelen Bahá’í School, 313-653-5033.

25: “Individual Rights and Freedoms in the Bahá’í Faith,” Oklahoma City Bahá’í Center. Sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Bethany. For information, contact Khalil Dana, 405-789-2428.

25-30: “The Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh/Celebration of the Covenant/Teaching Ensures the Victory of the Covenant,” Bosch Bahá’í School, Santa Cruz, California. For information, phone 408-423-3387.

25-August 2: Irish Bahá’í Summer School, Newtown School, Waterford. Contact the Registrar, National Bahá’í Center, Burlington Road, Dublin 4, Ireland.

31-August 3: Dayspring Bahá’í School, Frostburg (Maryland) State University. Theme: “Bahá’u’lláh—The Glory of God: The Significance of the Holy Year.” For information, phone Pam Rogers, 703-444-1512.

31-August 5: Family Week I, “The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh,” Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 313-653-5033.

AUGUST

1-6: Junior Youth Institute (ages 12-15), Bosch Bahá’í School, Santa Cruz, California. Because of the high demand for this week, we can register only those who have reached their 12th birthday by August 1. For an application packet, send a $100 deposit to the Registrar, Bosch Bahá’í School, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060.

1-8: Bahá’í Summer School, Brno, Czechoslovakia. Theme: “Bahá’u’lláh, the Unifier of Mankind.”

7-9: Martin Luther King Jr. Youth Assembly, Washington, D.C. Theme: “Unity Through the Peaceful Resolution of Conflict.” Sponsored by the MLK Jr. Federal Holiday Commission with the support of the National Spiritual Assembly. For information, contact the Commission office, 202-653-7005, or Cornelia Rutledge, 202-966-2356.

7-12: Family Week II, “Bahá’u’lláh’s Tablets and His Mighty Covenant,” Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 313-653-5033.

8-13: Adult Institute, Bosch Bahá’í School, Santa Cruz, California. Conducted by Auxiliary Board member Miguel Osborne. For information, write to the Registrar, Bosch Bahá’í School, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (phone 408-423-3387).

14-23: Project 92: A Workshop for Bahá’í Youth Workshops, Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 313-653-5033.

15-20: In addition to the regular Youth and Graduate Institutes, a new program, “Advanced Research Institute on the Theory and Method of Bahá’í Scholarship,” Bosch Bahá’í School, Santa Cruz, California. Directed by Habib Riazati. For information and interview for admission, phone Mr. Riazati, 714-994-3131.

22-27: “Positive Personal Transformation,” “Understanding Our Transcultural Society,” “The Holy Year: Its Challenges and Opportunities,” Bosch Bahá’í School, Santa Cruz, California. Full program for children/youth directed by staff teachers. For information, phone 408-423-3387.

28-30: 10th Bahá’í Conference at Massanetta, Harrisonburg, Virginia. Sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Staunton. Theme: “Bahá’u’lláh, His Revelation and His Covenant.” Please register by July 15. For registration/information, Jim Lamb, Staunton, VA 24401 (phone 703-885-6996).

SEPTEMBER

4-7: Pioneering Institute, Louis G. Gregory Bahá’í Institute, Hemingway, South Carolina. For information, phone 803-558-9039.

4-7: Homecoming 1992, Louhelen Bahá’í School. Phone 313-653-5033.

11-13: “Expanding Our Horizons,” the annual commemoration of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit to Glenwood Springs, Colorado. For people of all ages. Speakers to include Auxiliary Board member Steven Gonzales, historians Marie Griffith and Duane Troxel. Also, performing arts, workshops, special youth excursion, children’s classes, nursery. Pre-registration (adults) $15. Additional fees for activities. For information, please phone Cyndi Hogan, 303-625-3932.

18-20: 33rd annual Green Lake Bahá’í Conference, Green Lake, Wisconsin. Theme: “Know Thou the Value of These Days.” Confirmed speakers: Suheil Bushrui, Javidukht Khadem, Jenna Khodadad, Kevin Locke, Robert Malouf, Robert Harris, June Thomas, Ernestine Berkey. For accommodations and meal reservations, phone 1-800-558-8898.

OCTOBER

22-25: “The Role of Music in a Changing World,” Landegg Academy, Switzerland.

28-31: Conference on the Role of Women in a United Europe, Landegg Academy, Switzerland.

30-November 1: “Rendezvous of the Soul,” a special Holy Year program for personal reflection, Bosch Bahá’í School. For information, phone 408-423-3387.

NOVEMBER

5-9: First Sino-American Seminar on Women’s Issues, sponsored by the Shanghai Municipal Women’s Federation. Theme: “Women Today and Tomorrow.” For information, contact Seminar on Women’s Issues, Duette J. Rochelle, Kapaa, HI 96746 (phone 808-822-5756 or 808-335-3566; Fax 808-335-0065).

DECEMBER

11-13: “Rendezvous of the Soul,” a special Holy Year program for personal reflection, Bosch Bahá’í School. For information, phone 408-423-3387.

JANUARY

15-17: “Rendezvous of the Soul,” a special Holy Year program for personal reflection, Bosch Bahá’í School. For information, phone 408-423-3387.