The American Bahá’í/Volume 23/Issue 11/Text

←Previous

The American Bahá’í Volume 23, Issue 11

Next→

Return to PDF view Proofread once

[Page 1]...knowledge is a veritable treasure for man....'—Bahá’u’lláh

UPSURGE: Bahá’í activities promoting oneness of humankind gaining momentum

BY KEN BOWERS

In recent months Bahá’í activities promoting the oneness of humanity have surged to unprecedented levels in both numbers and success of results. Although largely a result of the increase in teaching of all kinds inspired by the Holy Year, it also has to do with the atmosphere of receptivity generated by events in Los Angeles and other cities and the corresponding national focus on the issue of racism.

IN MANY AREAS of the country the pace of activities, far from subsiding, has gained momentum, reflecting the spirit of commitment called for by the Universal House of Justice in its message to the American community of May 11, 1992, in which the Supreme Body stated:

"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 mankind 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."

The National Spiritual Assembly has observed in the nature and intensity of these efforts the emergence of patterns that are highly encouraging. In June the National Assembly, responding to the guidance of the House of Justice, called for a nationwide campaign to promote race unity through special emphasis in teaching, proclamation, public service and other means.

Reports coming in from across the country indicate that solid foundations have already been laid for the victories hoped for through this initiative. The following are some noteworthy developments:

• Local governments, businesses, schools and social institutions are turning to the Bahá’ís in increasing numbers for help in battling racism. In most cases the Bahá’ís work with these groups through special seminars and classes; in some they are directly involved in helping to create environments conducive to integration and diversity; and in others they are working with the National Assembly and local organizations on studies of models of race unity similar to the one published this year in conjunction with the Chicago Human Relations Commission.

Bahá’ís have started a positive movement bringing people together in constructive ways that promise to be ongoing. This contrasts with most groups, which form short-lived "commissions" on racism that soon disappear.

• Activities are not limited to the black/white issue. Bahá’ís are also working with Hispanics, American Indians, Asians and other minorities.

THE FRIENDS have found many ways to "emblazon" Bahá’u’lláh’s Name through these activities, thus providing the essential link between Bahá’í principles and the Source of their inspiration.

There is an increased focus on the Faith on the part of the media. Articles on the Faith are currently appearing at nearly twice last year's rate, which was until now the highest ever. The content of articles continues a pattern established during the Six Year Plan, with more and more in-depth coverage of the Faith's history and teachings.

There has been a noticeable increase in fireside attendance in communities that are actively working on race unity projects. This underscores the potential of such efforts to attract new believers to the Cause.

The National Spiritual Assembly, in announcing the race unity campaign, listed a number of actions it was taking to support local activities. These include the publication of an open letter to the American people as a follow-up to "The Vision of Race Unity."

Office of External Affairs is moving

The National Spiritual Assembly's Office of the Secretary for External Affairs is moving. As of August 1, the new address is 1320 Nineteenth St. N.W., Suite 701, Washington, DC 22036. The new telephone number is 202-833-8900.

Through its secretariat for External Affairs, the National Spiritual Assembly coordinates U.S. Bahá’í relations with federal and state government agencies and officers, nationally prominent persons, and national non-governmental organizations.

History, theology bear witness to uniqueness of Bahá’u’lláh

BY ROB STOCKMAN

The Universal House of Justice has referred to Bahá’u’lláh as "the most precious Being ever to have drawn breath on this planet." As we commemorate the centenary of His passing through a year of events focused on Him and on the Covenant He established, it behooves us to ponder the ways Bahá’u’lláh is unique in human history.

HIS UNIQUENESS can be described primarily in two ways: historically—that is, in comparison to other figures and especially other Manifestations; and theologically—that is, in considering the spiritual station that the Bahá’í sacred writings give Him.

As historians study the life and teachings of Bahá’u’lláh they will be increasingly impressed by His uniqueness, even by secular standards. Few human beings have written as prodigiously as Bahá’u’lláh; in the archives of the Bahá’í World Center exist more than 15,000 documents written or dictated by Him, mostly letters in reply to questions asked by believers. Some are of book length; after a century only a fraction have been translated into English.

Even more remarkable than the quantity of Bahá’u’lláh's writing is the way it was revealed. Many eye-witnesses have left accounts of the circumstances in which Bahá’u’lláh revealed His tablets. The Hand of the Cause of God Tarázu’lláh Samandari, who attained the presence of Bahá’u’lláh, has provided such testimony.

Faith second most widespread religion

The Bahá’í Faith remains the second-most widespread world religion, according to the 1992 Encyclopedia Britannica Book of the Year.

In the section entitled "World Religious Statistics," the Book of the Year reports that the Faith has "a significant following" in 205 sovereign and non-sovereign countries.

Only Christianity has a significant following in more countries, according to the Book of the Year, which lists Christianity as having a following in all of the 254 countries considered in its survey.

In third place is Islam, with communities in 172 countries, followed by Judaism, 125; Hinduism, 88; and Buddhism, 86.

Isobel Sabri, member of International Teaching Center, dies

HEARTS PROFOUNDLY SADDENED LOSS GREATLY LOVED OUTSTANDING PROMOTER CAUSE GOD, MEMBER INTERNATIONAL TEACHING CENTER ISOBEL SABRI. HER STERLING INDEFATIGABLE PIONEERING AND ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES OVER SEVERAL DECADES FIRST BRITISH ISLES AND THEN AFRICA CROWNED BY UNFORGETTABLE HIGHLY VALUED CONTRIBUTIONS WORLD CENTER SINCE 1983. INTEGRITY HER EXEMPLARY LIFE POWERFULLY REINFORCED HER FEARLESS VALIANT UNFLAGGING EFFORTS CHAMPION TRUTHS AND DEFEND INTERESTS FAITH SHE DEARLY CHERISHED. PRAYING HOLY SHRINES CONTINUED PROGRESS HER LUMINOUS SOUL ABHA KINGDOM WHERE RICH REWARD ASSUREDLY AWAITS HER. ADVISE HOLD MEMORIAL SERVICES HER HONOR HOUSES OF WORSHIP AND COMMUNITIES THROUGHOUT BAHÁ’Í WORLD.

THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE JUNE 18, 1992 [Page 2]

Sonoma County Bahá’ís host festive Race Unity Day picnic

About 700 people representing many races from throughout Sonoma County, California, celebrated Race Unity Day in June with a picnic on the campus of Santa Rosa Junior College.

The well-attended event, which was co-sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Santa Rosa and the Sonoma County Human Rights Coalition, included the endorsement of more than 20 major organizations and the support of nine neighboring Bahá’í communities and the Auxiliary Board.

"OUR GOAL was to create an event in which the planning process itself, as well as the actual event and follow-up activity, was designed to teach the Bahá’í Faith and to demonstrate the priniciple of the oneness of mankind," said Beverlee Patton-Miller, managing director of the Race Unity Day Planning Committee. "This goal," she added, "was met before the event ever took place."

Participating groups included the Sonoma County chapter of the NAACP; the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Sonoma County; the Japanese-American Citizens League; the Jewish Community Relations Council; Partners in Health; and the United Nations Association.

Performing artists Phavia Kujichagulia; E.W. Wainwright-The African Roots of Jazz; Dry Creek Traditional Pomo Dancers; Grupo Teokalli; Travelers of Light, and the Ben Hill Quintet were featured in the program. The Challenge Sonoma Ropes Course-Affirmative Action Team led interactive games with enthusiastic participation on the part of children and adults.

"This old-fashioned family-style picnic allowed people to get to know each other in a relaxed and entertaining manner," said Ms. Patton-Miller. "The celebration took place in a beautiful section of the college campus, amid oak trees and flower gardens."

Those attending represented a wide variety of ages and ethnic backgrounds including African-American, white, American Indian, Asian and Hispanic. Special attention was given to youth and children.

Contact with public officials began last January and resulted in resolutions from the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors and the Santa Rosa City Council proclaiming June 14, 1992, as Race Unity Day. The City Council action was recorded on cable television.

On the same day of these proclamations (June 9), the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors unanimously passed a resolution creating the first Human Relations Commission in Sonoma County. The creation of this commission was a primary goal of the Human Rights Coalition, which co-sponsored the Race Unity Day observance. Members of the Human Rights Coalition and the Race Unity Day Planning Committee stood together in the chamber of the Board of Supervisors for the reading of the Race Unity Day proclamations and the resolution for the Human Relations Commission.

Pictured (left to right) at the presentation of a Race Unity Day resolution by the Sonoma County (California) Board of Supervisors on June 9 are Ann Zimmer, Jewish Community Relations Council; Beverlee Patton-Miller, managing director of the Race Unity Day Planning Committee and member of the Spiritual Assembly of Santa Rosa; Mei T. Nakano, Human Rights Coalition and Japanese-American Citizens League; Janice Odell, member of the Race Unity Day Planning Committee and the Spiritual Assembly of Santa Rosa; County Supervisors Jim Smith and Michael Cale; and Willie Garrett, Human Rights Coalition and Sonoma County chapter, NAACP.

SUBSTANTIAL media coverage included advance notices and a follow-up article with a photo in the daily paper; a half-hour radio interview; radio news stories and public service announcements; a news story on the local television station on the evening of the event, which quoted Bahá’u’lláh; and many other articles and notices in surrounding area papers.

Race Unity Day was awarded a grant category from the prestigious Sonoma County Community Foundation. The "Race Unity Tust Fund," which has already received contributions from individuals and local companies, will be used to support race unity in Sonoma County as well as the annual Race Unity Day.

An advisory council with Bahá’í members was created to administer the fund, and news of that development was announced during the program at this year's Race Unity Day celebration.

Race Unity Day is now an established annual event in Sonoma County. Momentum will be maintained through year-round educational and cultural activities, corporate and community fund-raising and an active community relation program.

This endeavor is viewed by the Bahá’ís as a continuous process of making friends, expanding the scope of activities, and, above all, addressing America's "most challenging issue."

Hand of Cause Mr. Furútan present as Hungary elects its first National Assembly

On May 1-2, in the presence of the Hand of the Cause of God Ali-Akbar Furútan and Counselor Louis Hénuzet, the first National Spiritual Assembly of Hungary was elected in Budapest.

Mr. Furútan inspired the friends by reading the message of congratulations from the Universal House of Justice. Alsó read was the uplifting 1992 Ridván message from the Supreme Body.

A week earlier, on April 26, 170 Bahá’ís gathered in Prague with Counselor Shapour Rassekh to elect the second National Spiritual Assembly of Czechoslovakia, marking the further progress of the Cause in Eastern Europe.

Encampment held near Cameron, Oklahoma, to develop a united vision of Indian teaching for Bahá’ís in America

On the weekend of June 5-7, an encampment was held near Cameron, Oklahoma, to consult on Indian teaching. Although conceived as a regional gathering (Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas), it drew people from across the country.

THOSE TAKING part ranged from people with no experience or knowledge of Indian teaching to others with many years of experience in that area.

There were no featured speakers. The principal aim of the gathering was to develop a united vision of Indian teaching, the method used was consultation, the use of teaching institutes was stressed, and the cost of attending was held to a minimum.

Among the wide range of topics discussed by the more than 50 participants were:

• consolidation in the vast Navajo Nation;
• working in the Indian communities in cities that are unaware of the large size of their Native American populations;
• people working in Oklahoma with its unique character; and
• those who work in areas where the Indian people may be unknown to the general society.

Results included:

• developing a list of the needs of those involved in Indian teaching;
• establishing a structure to bring existing resources to meet the needs for teaching;
• starting a process by which new resources can be developed; and
• making a commitment to work on continuing the unification of those involved in Indian teaching.

Two means were set up to carry out decisions made at the gathering. The first was to continue meeting at intervals to evaluate progress, share new information, bring new people into the process, and set new goals and directions as needed; the second was to publish a newsletter to help advance the goals of the gathering.

Five areas received pledges of specific commitments to work on Indian teaching, some through use of teaching institutes and others from isolated believers who pledged to find at least one other person to help them establish a teaching institute.

LESS tangible but no less powerful results came from sharing experiences and information during the weekend. Much of what was discussed can be grouped into four areas of concern:

1. Listening to the seeker. 2. Relying on the Writings for guidance. 3. Developing a true sense of unity within the various groups in our own Bahá’í community. 4. Overcoming "hesitancy" in teaching, whether of the heart or the intellect, through personal transformation.

THE NEXT regional gathering of Bahá’ís to consult on Indian teaching is to be held August 21-23 at the Osage Hills State Park (indoor facilities with bunks) in northeastern Oklahoma.

Advance registration ($25 per person/ $50 maximum per family) is requested so that the committee in charge may plan the food for those who will attend. The registrar is Fuad Khavari, 405-273-3914.

Bahá’ís interested in general information on Indian teaching or the Regional American Indian Teaching Committee in their area are asked to phone Ada James at the Bahá’í National Center, 708-869-9039.

Peace Garden given plaque

On April 26, a bronze plaque donated by the Spiritual Assembly of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was added to the city's Peace Garden.

Appearing on the plaque are these words: "The earth is one country and mankind its citizens.—Bahá’u’lláh, Bahá’í Holy Scripture."

A two-city-block strip of land along the Susquehanna River has been designated as the Peace Garden as a result of Physicians for Social Responsibility's work with the city of Harrisburg. Included in the garden are plaques, peace posts, a globe, trees and lovely flowers. [Page 3]

BIRTH OF THE BAHÁ’Í REVELATION

(Excerpted from Bahá’u’lláh The King of Glory, by H.M. Balyuzi, with permission from George Ronald publishers)

Siyah-Chal—the Black Pit—was a subterranean dungeon in the capital of Iran, dim, damp and dismal, never knowing the rays of the sun. At one time it had been the water reservoir of a public bath. Few people survived who were kept there for long. Now, in the summer of 1852, they herded togethre all the Babis on whom they could lay their hands in Tihran, cast them into this dungeon and chained and fettered them. Amongst them were men from all walks of life: from distinguished courtiers to humble artisans, from well-to-do merchants to humble students of theology.

Bahá’u’lláh, Himself, was one of their number. Around His neck they placed one or other of the two most dreaded chains in the whole land. Under its ponderous weight His whole frame was bent. In the Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, Bahá’u’lláh speaks of those awesome chains:

"Shouldst thou at some time happen to visit the dungeon of His Majesty the Shah, ask the director and chief jailer to show thee those two chains, one of which is known as Qara-Guhar, and the other as Salasil. I swear by the Day-Star of Justice that for four months this Wronged One was tormented and chained by one or the other of them. 'My grief exceedeth all the woes to which Jacob gave vent, and all the afflictions of Job are but a part of My sorrows!'"

Bahá’u’lláh and a glorious Shirazi youth, ‘Abdu’l-Vahhab, were chained together. Though outwardly degraded in the eyes of men, and fettered as a dangerous criminal, Bahá’u’lláh had visitors in Siyah-Chal of such eminence as Dust-’Ali Khan, the Mu’ayyiru’l-Mamalik and Nizamu’d-Dawlih, and Haji Mirza Mahmud, the Nizamu’l-Ulama, who had been the tutor of Nasiri’d-Din Shah in his youth and had assisted at the trial of the Bab in Tabriz. They went into His presence in that verminous dungeon, sat down courteously beside Him and spoke to Him with great respect.

NABIL, the immortal historian of the Bahá’í Faith, recounts in his work the words which he himself heard from Bahá’u’lláh, describing the torment of those days:

"We were all huddled together in one cell, our feet in stocks, and around our neck fastened the most galling of chains. The air we breathed was laden with the foulest impurities, while the floor on which we sat was covered with filth and infested with vermin. No ray of light was allowed to penetrate that pestilential dungeon or to warm its icy coldness. We were placed in two rows, each facing the other. we had taught them torepeat certain verses which, every night, they chanted with extreme fervor. 'God is sufficient unto me; He verily is the All-Sufficing!' one row would intone, wihle the other would reply: 'In Him let the trusting trust.' The chorus of these gladsome voices would continue to peal out until the early hours of the morning. Their reverberation would fill the dungeon, and, piercing its massive walls, would reach the ears of Nasiri’d-Din Shah, whose palace was not far distant from the place where we were imprisoned. 'What means this sound?' he was reported to have exclaimed. 'It is the anthem the Babis are intoning in their prison,' they replied. The Shah made no further remarks, nor did he attempt to restrain the enthusiasm his prisoners, despite the horrors of their confinement, continued to display.

"One day, there was brought to Our prison a tray of roasted meat which they informed Us the Shah had ordered to be distributed among the prisoners. 'The Shah,' We were told, 'faithful to a vow he made, has chosen to this day to offer to you all this lamb in fulfilment of his pledge. A deep silence fell upon Our companions, who expected Us to make answer on their behalf. 'We return this gift to you,' We replied, 'we can well dispense with this offer.' The answer we made would have greatly irritated the guards had they not been eager to devour the food We had refused to touch. Despite the hunger with which our companions were afflicted, only one among them, a certain Mirza Husayn-i-Mutavalliy-i-Qumi, showed any desire to eat of the food the sovereign had spread before us. With a fortitude that was truly heroic, Our fellow-prisoners submitted, without a murmur, to endure the piteous plight to which they were reduced. Praise of God, instead of complaint of the treatment meted out to them by the Shah, fell unceasingly from their lips—praise with which they sought to beguile the hardship of a cruel captivity.

"Every day our gaolers, entering Our cell, would call the name of one of Our companions, bidding him arise and follow them to the foot of the gallows. With what eagerness would the owner of that name respond to that solemn call! Relieved of his chains, he would spring to his feet and, in a state of uncontrollable delight, would approach and embrace Us. We would seek to comfort him with the assurance of an everlasting life in the world beyond, and, filling his heart with hope and joy, would send him forth to win the crown of glory. He would embrace, in turn, the rest of his fellow-prisoners, and then proceed to die as dauntlessly as he had lived. Soon after the martyrdom of each of these companions, We would be informed by the executioner, who had grown to be friendly with Us, of the circumstances of the death of his victim, and the joy with which he had endured his sufferings to the very end."

IT WAS in the murk, the gloom, the twilit world of the Siyah-Chal that the Bahá’í Revelation was born—in Tihran, the same city where the Bearer of that Revelation Himself first saw the light of day. This dismal prison, where dangerous criminals were thrown, had been chosen to lodge the broken and shattered remnants of a once proud and flourishing community. All around Bahá’u’lláh, chained and fettered, lay the Babis, once carrying their heads high, but now bearing the stigma and the dishonor of would-be regicides. The enemy, fully aroused, knew no mercy and showed them none. They were doomed men, and they suffered horrible tortures before their lives were stifled.

The community of the Bab, become a shepherdless, aimless flock, courted disaster. Was it for this futility, this dubious, unedifying end, this seeming disgrace, one might well have asked, that the glorious Bab had gladly given His life, that the brave, the indomitable Babu’l-Bab, the gentle, unwavering Quddus, the fearless, courageous Hujjat, the erudite, steadfast Vahid and hundreds of other heroic souls, had fallen on the battlefield?

The answer would have been an emphatic, a thousandfold ‘No,’ because the Babis, no matter how demoralized, how subject to influences alien to the truth of their Faith, or far strayed from the righteous purposes of the Bab, had kept aglow in their hearts the hope born of the promise of the near advent of ‘Him Whom God shall make manifest.’

It was in the path of that Supreme Manifestation of the Godhead that the Bab had shed His blood. It was to pave the way for His coming that martyrs had fallen at Shaykh Tabarsi, at Zanjan, at Nayriz. Indeed the whole raison d’etre of the Babis was to know and acknowledge ‘Him Whom God shall make manifest.’ ‘I am preparing you for the advent of a mighty day—these had been the words of the glorious Bab addressed to the Letters of the Living, His first disciples, when he laid upon them the mandate to go out, ‘scatter throughout the length and breadth of the land and with ‘steadfast feet and sanctified hearts, prepare the way for His coming. The Bab had assured His people of ‘ultimate victory,’ but that ‘ultimate victory’ had surprisingly and cruelly eluded them. It must, therefore, of a certainty, be theirs under the standard of that Supreme Manifestation of the Godhead, Whose advent had also been promised to them, and Whom they eagerly awaited.

Bahá’u’lláh, Himself, has given us a vivid and overpowering account of those hours when He became conscious of His Divine Mission:

"During the days I lay in the prison of Tihran, though the galling weight of the chains and the stench-filled air allowed Me but little sleep, still in those infrequent moments of slumber I felt as if something flowed from the crown of My head over My breast, even as a mighty torrent that precipitateth itself upon the earth from the summit of a lofty mountain. Every limb of My body would, as a result, be set afire. At such moments My tongue recited what no man could bear to hear.

"One night, in a dream, these exalted words were heard on every side: 'Verily, we shall render Thee victorious by Thyself and by Thy pen. Grieve Thou not for that which hath befallen Thee, neither be Thou afraid, for Thou art in safety. Ere long will God raise up the treasures of the earth—men who will aid Thee through Thyself and through Thy Name, wherewith God hath revived the hearts of such as have recognized Him.'"

"WHILE engulfed in tribulations I heard a most wondrous, a most sweet voice, calling above My head. Turning my face, I beheld a Maiden—the embodiment of the remembrance of the name of My Lord—suspended in the air before Me. So rejoiced was she in her very soul that her countenance shone with the ornament of the good-pleasure of God, and her cheeks glowed with the brightness of the All-Merciful. Betwixt earth and heaven she was raising a call which captivated the hearts and minds of men. She was imparting to both My inward and outer being tidings which rejoiced My soul, and the souls of God’s honored servants. Pointing with her finger unto My head, she addressed all who are in heaven and all who are on earth, saying: 'By God! This is the Best-Beloved of the worlds, and yet ye comprehend not. This is the Beauty of God amongst you, and the power of His sovereignty within you, could ye but understand. This is the Mystery of God and His Treasure, the Cause of God and His glory unto all who are in the kingdoms of Revelation and of creation, if ye be of them that perceive.'"

These words are unique in the Scriptures of mankind. [Page 4]

Job fairs help place educators in positions around the world

The following organizations sponsor job fairs for educators interested in finding employment in international schools around the world. Contact each organization for more information about dates, registration, deadlines, fees, placement services, what schools will attend, what qualifications are required, and additional services.

OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY: Job Fair, February 5-7, 1993. Contact B.J. Bryant, director, Educational Career Services, 110 Arps Hall, 1945 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43210-1172 for more information. Telephone 614-292-2741.

UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN IOWA: Job fair scheduled from February 12-14, 1993. Contact Don Wood, Overseas Placement Center, 152 Gilchrist Hall, University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, IA 50614. Telephone 319-273-2083.

ASSOCIATION OF AMERICAN SCHOOLS IN SOUTH AMERICA (AASSA): Job fair scheduled from November 27-29, 1993, at the Langsford Hotel, Orlando, Florida. Schools from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Curacao, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay and Venezuela represented. Applicants who are certified or eligible for certification contact: Kimberly Kourtis, AASSA, 6952 NW 50th St., Miami, FL 33166. Telephone 305-594-3936.

TORC: A division of the National Teachers Placement Bureau, TORC holds numerous job fairs. Contact Don Cermak, director, TORC, P.O. Box 09027, Cleveland, OH 44109 for information. Telephone 216-741-3771.

The following Language and Education Fairs are organized by ICEF (International Consultants for Education and Fairs), a subsidiary of WHERE + HOW:

WARSAW Sep 1992 BUDAPEST Oct 1992 BERLIN Nov 1992 SINGAPORE Dec 1992 PRAGUE Jan 1993 SEOUL Feb 1993 KUALA LUMPUR Mar 1993 GENEVA May 1993 SAO PAULO May 1993 BANGKOK Dec 1993

For information, contact ICEF, 5300 Bonn I, Germany. Tel. (+49 228) 22 30 86; Fax (+49 228) 22 26 43.

Pioneer Institutes provide spiritual, practical framework for promoting Cause of God

Participation in a Pioneering Institute provides the spiritual and practical foundation upon which to focus one’s prayers and actions in promoting the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh in a new environment. The goal of a Pioneering Institute is to provide the prospective pioneer with skills and a perspective on service which will enhance his/her ability to be happy and effective in this most meritorious of services to Bahá’u’lláh. Because of limited space and the specialized attention to needs which we wish to provide each participant, attendance must be by invitation only.

Upcoming Pioneering Institutes September 3-6, Louis G. Gregory Bahá’í School, Hemingway, South Carolina. January 7-10, 1993—Bosch Bahá’í School, Santa Cruz, California. Early Spring 1993, Green Acre Bahá’í School, Eliot, Maine. Late Spring 1993, Bahá’í National Center, Evanston, Illinois.

If you are interested in attending any of these Institutes, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 or telephone 708-869-9039 for additional information.

TRAVELING TEACHERS

Goal Filled Area/Country Ukraine 100 185 Kazakhstan 6 10 CIS (Other Republics) 150 247 Bulgaria 5 14 Czechoslovakia 30 44 DDR/East Germany 10 4 Hungary 35 19 Poland 15 21 Romania 10 13 Yugoslavia 40 9 Mongolia 4 2 China 35 91 Totals 440 659

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; THE GAMBIA; GERMANY; GUATEMALA; GUADELOUPE; GUINEA BISSAU; GUYANA; HAITI; HONG KONG; HUNGARY; ICELAND; INDIA; IRELAND; ITALY; MALAYSIA; MALTA; MOZAMBIQUE; NEPAL; NEW CALEDONIA; PAKISTAN; PANAMA; PHILLIPINES; 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.

CORRECTION

The article entitled "Timeline, U.S. Bahá’ís and Race Unity" (The American Bahá’í, vol.23, no.9, June 24, 1992, for the Feast of Rahmat, p.5) contained two errors:

1. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá neither presided over nor attended the wedding of Louis Gregory and Louisa Matthews, although He was in this country when it took place, and the marriage was inspired by Him.

2. The National Spiritual Assembly of the U.S. and Canada sponsored a series of Race Amity conferences beginning in 1924, not 1921. Before this there were three Race Amity conferences, the first of which was organized in 1921 by Mrs. Agnes Parsons, at the suggestion of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

6 YEAR PLAN U.S. PIONEERING GOALS

AFRICA Goals Open / Assigned Goals (F) Burundi 1 / 0 (E) Ciskei 2 / 0 (E) The Gambia (Preferably Persians) 2 / 0 (E) Kenya (Preferably Outside Nairobi) 1 / 0 (E) Nigeria 2 / 3 (E) Sierra Leone 0 / 0 (E) South Africa 4 / 2 (E) St. Helena 0 / 0 (E) Namibia 2 / 2 (E) Transkei 0 / 0 (E) Uganda (One to teach the Faith in the university; one doctor) 2 / 1 (E) Venda 2 / 0 Total for Africa 22 / 8

AMERICAS (E) Bahamas (North Abaco, Eleuthera, Andros, Cat Island, Long Island) 2 / 0 (E) Barbados (Employment opportunities for a dentist) 1 / 0 (E) Belize (For radio, consolidation, development projects; skills for the National Secretariat) 2 / 0 (P) Brazil (Preferably for Amazon project, possibly of Persian background) 2 / 1 (S) Chile (Juan Fernandez Islands, preferably a Spanish-speaking couple) 1 / 0 (E) Dominica 3 / 3 (F) French Guiana (Preferably Persian) 1 / 0 (E) Grenada 2 / 0 (F) Guadeloupe (Opportunities for English teachers) 2 / 0 (E) Guyana (Preferably East Indians and Blacks) 2 / 0 (S) Honduras (Bay Islands, Yoro, Colon; preferably self-supporting) 2 / 1 (E) Jamaica (Preferably self-supporting for rural areas to work in village development) 4 / 0 (F) Martinique (French-speaking youth to enroll in university or with musical talent) 1 / 0 (S) Nicaragua (Preferably Persian) 2 / 0 (E) St. Lucia (Skills in community consolidation) 4 / 0 (E) St. Vincent & Grenadines 2 / 2 (D) Suriname (Preferably Persian) 2 / 1 (E) Trinidad & Tobago (Preferably Persian) 2 / 2 (S) Uruguay 2 / 0 (S) Venezuela 2 / 0 (E) Virgin Islands, British 2 / 1 Total for Americas 45 / 11

ASIA (E) India 2 / 0 (E) Malaysia (To help develop public relations experts) 1 / 0 (E) Nepal 2 / 0 (M) Taiwan (Chinese Background) 1 / 0 Total for Asia 6 / 0

AUSTRALASIA (E) Marshall Islands (To help with administration) 2 / 0 Total for Australasia 2 / 0

EUROPE (P) Portugal (Couples for goal areas outside greater Lisbon, preferably Portuguese or Spanish-speaking) 2 / 0 Total for Europe 2 / 0

Total goals assigned: 77 Total goals filled: 68 Pioneers to goal countries: 251 Pioneers filling goals for other countries: 18 Pioneers to non-goals: 445 Total Pioneers sent: 714

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

TRAVELING TEACHING CALENDAR

CZECHOSLOVAKIA: Summer Teaching Project: July 31 - August 31, 1992 EAST GERMANY: July 4 - October 11, 1992 GUYANA: International Visual Arts Conference, September 16-18, 1992 SWITZERLAND: Summer 1992 TURKEY: October 1992 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). [Page 5]

Ambitious development agenda awaits U.S. Bahá’í community

October 1983 marked an important turning point for the worldwide Bahá’í community. On the 20th day of that month, the Universal House of Justice informed believers the world over that the administrative structure, so diligently built by the beloved Guardian and elaborated by three generations of his loved ones, now stood ready to begin to address the complex social and economic issues of the day in accordance with Bahá’u’lláh’s divine Teachings.

THIS EVENT had special implications for the American Bahá’í community. Nowhere else in the Bahá’í world has there ever been a similar concentration of human and financial wealth with which to pursue such exalted goals.

And we have responded: the flow of pioneers and funds, from individuals and institutions alike, has been steady and generous. We, as members of this blessed community, have contributed, directly and indirectly, to the enhancement of the human dignity of peoples in virtually every part of the planet.

Now, circumstances appear to be coming together that will usher in a new phase in this wonderful process. Our emergence into the bright light of national affairs has created a new condition in our community life.

It is easy to assume that development is something for “those people over there”; our instinctive understanding of development is shaped by a long history in the U.S. of international philanthropy aimed at the developing world.

The Peace Corps, USAID, CARE and other organizations have, by their high visibility, influenced us to draw a distinction between the needs in the U.S., which are tempting to see as problems primarily for the government, and those of developing nations, which we tend to see as objects of our pity and charity.

The Bahá’í standard is quite different. How surprising it is to think of our local Assemblies as vehicles for social and even economic development!

And yet it is at that level that the House of Justice urges us to begin this great work of our time, and then extend its benefits to the rest of society: “The steps to be taken must necessarily begin in the Bahá’í community itself, with the friends endeavoring, through their application of spiritual principles, their rectitude of conduct and the practice of the art of consultation, to uplift themselves and thus become self-sufficient and self-reliant. Moreover, these exertions will conduce to the preservation of human honor, so desired by Bahá’u’lláh.”

In the years since the publication of the October 1983 message, the Bahá’í community has indeed become increasingly involved both in internal deepening and in the life of society, activities which themselves are the best kind of development.

STORIES regularly arrive at the Bahá’í National Center of local Assembly deepenings and conferences, race unity activities, participation in environmental affairs, and more. The recent community survey indicated a correlation between participation in civic activities and teaching, praying and giving to the Funds.

ON the other hand, our development agenda in this national community is truly vast. Our permanent and seasonal schools, our Assemblies, local and national, our beautiful Mother Temple—all these are in an embryonic stage with regard to their mission and potential. Their ability to address the soul-shaking needs of our time is only now beginning to manifest itself.

At the same time, our numbers are limited, and so are the financial resources we can provide for these purposes. An important question that must therefore be answered is how, in these times of generalized social turmoil, can we create new and more extensive “manifestations of faith in action,” and where will we obtain the necessary resources?

And, in general, what will be the response of the members of this pre-eminent Bahá’í community to these many opportunities now being presented by our Lord?

Twelve-year-old Naisan Wachob presents the third Bahá’í Peace Award on behalf of the Bahá’í Group of Mint Hill, North Carolina, to Susan Hancock, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Charlotte. The presentation was made on March 31.

Bahá’í Group of Mint Hill, North Carolina, presents third annual Peace Award to community activist

On March 31, the Bahá’í Group of Mint Hill, North Carolina, presented its third annual Peace Award to Susan Hancock, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Charlotte.

The award is part of the Mint Hill Peace Project, begun in 1986 by William C. Wachob Jr., a Bahá’í homefront pioneer who was inspired by the Universal House of Justice’s message, “The Promise of World Peace.” When Mr. Wachob died of cancer in December 1987 at age 37, his wife and son decided to carry on the Peace Project and to establish the Peace Award in his memory. The award is presented on the anniversary of Mr. Wachob’s birth.

This year’s ceremony, held at the Mint Hill town hall, included a statement of welcome by Mayor Joseph Hamilton and a panel discussion on “The Vision of the New World Order” whose panelists were a local Bahá’í, a Catholic, and Dr. Jack Perry, former ambassador to the Soviet Union.

The Mint Hill city council adopted a resolution, presented by the Bahá’ís, proclaiming March 30-April 6 a “Week of Peace” in Mint Hill.

Since the Peace Project was begun in 1986, more than 1,000 copies of the House of Justice’ ‎Justice’ Justice’s‎ peace message have been presented to residents of the town, a series of 12 panel discussions on aspects of peace have been held, and hundreds of seekers have attended the meetings and become familiar with the teachings of the Faith.

Previous recipients of the Peace Award were Dick Fox of Beyond War for his contributions toward peace and the elimination of illiteracy, and Sister Veronica Glover of the Catholic church for her contributions toward the education of children and activities for peace and justice.

IBAVC Media Materials Division establishes Music Clearinghouse in Venezuela

The Media Materials Division of the International Bahá’í Audio-Visual Center (IBAVC) has established a Music Clearinghouse in Maracaibo, Venezuela, and invites Bahá’ís to take part in it. The goals are:

• to increase the availability of music by Bahá’ís appropriate for a wide variety of purposes; and
• to stimulate and encourage the creativity of those who produce music for the Faith.

The Music Clearinghouse will (1) create a human resource list of Bahá’í musicians and enter it on a data base; (2) build a reference library of music that Bahá’í musicians are willing to share for uses they specify; (3) screen each composition received, categorize it by title, type, content, purpose, suggested audience, etc., and enter it into a data base; (4) obtain permission to use each composition; (5) publish and distribute language-specific demonstration music cassettes accompanied by lyric/lead sheets and information on permission to use; (6) publicize the availability of new music, whether or not IBAVC distributes it; (7) publicize the needs for music expressed by various Bahá’í communities; and (8) publish, or make available, compilations, monographs and reprints related to music.

The Music Clearinghouse invites you to share your music with other Bahá’ís by sending it to the Clearinghouse. Music can be sent on home-style cassettes, via studio recordings, lead and lyric sheets, full scores, or whatever the composer or artist wishes to offer.

Send your thoughts, comments, suggestions, your CV and any other information about yourself and your music, and the names of other musicians who would like to be on the mailing list, to:

Media Materials Division, IBAVC, Apdo 1817, Maracaibo 4001-A, Venezuela. Telephone and fax 58-61-618572.

On May 2, Bahá’ís in the metropolitan Dallas, Texas, area took part in the annual ‘Cinco de Mayo’ parade. Articles about the event mentioning Bahá’í participation appeared in the Dallas Morning News and a local Spanish-language newspaper. Pictured are Bahá’ís who marched behind a banner reading ‘Heal the Wounds of Racism—Live as One Family.’ [Page 6]

Day of Glory

The Life of Bahá’u’lláh by Mary Perkins HC $24.95 SC $11.95

Beginning with the childhood of Bahá’u’lláh, this clear, straightforward, and readable sequel to Hour of the Dawn: The Life of the Báb briefly examines the same period as its companion volume, focusing on the life of Bahá’u’lláh, the Founder of the Bahá’í Faith. Also covered are His days as the exemplary Disciple of the Báb; His imprisonment in Tehran’s “Black Pit”; the intimation He received telling Him that He is the Promised One of all ages; His banishment from Persia; and His journeys in exile from Tehran to Baghdad, to Constantinople, to Adrianople, and finally to ‘Akká, the Most Great Prison on the edge of the Ottoman Empire. 8" x 5", 160pp. George Ronald, Publisher

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 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 unfoldment 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-‘Ahdi, 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

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

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

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.

Ride the Wave

by Cindy Savage SC $6.95

Have you ever wished that you had a book to give older children between the ages of nine and fifteen? This book may be the answer. Popular children’s writer Cindy Savage, author of Nothing in Common, launches an exciting new series for youth that focuses on a Bahá’í youth club in America. The Riverview High Bahá’í Club, in an effort to proclaim the Faith, puts together a special act for a school talent show. Much to their surprise their unity song, accompanied by sign language, wins first prize. Requests pour in from community organizations, and before they have time to take a deep breath they are a local sensation. But now they are faced with problems of an unexpected nature. This book, the first in the new series Youth Wave, introduces all the main characters in a lively, fast-paced story that explores teaching, consultation, and equality. 5-½" x 7-¾", 92pp. Oneworld Publications, Ltd.

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. 6-¾" x 3-½", 6-panel Erich Reich Enterprises

Order now through the Bahá’í Distribution Service • 1-800-999-9019

KAMÁL B.E. 149 / AUGUST 1, 1992 [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 7-¼", 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 7-¼" 112pp., table of contents, preface, appendix, sources Kalimát Press

Nearness to God

Readings for Morn and Eve SC $14.95 A selection of extracts from the writings of Bahá’u’lláh, the Báb, and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, chosen to help us draw closer to God and appreciate more fully the spirit of His revelation. This high quality, beautiful publication ‎a has has‎ been designed to follow the rhythm of the Bahá’í calendar, and includes:

• Two readings per page, one for morning and one for evening.
• The obligatory prayers, and additional readings for Holy Days.
• Special treatment of the Feast at the start of each Bahá’í month.

Nearness to God will help to develop the spiritual pattern of daily reading and prayer. This excellent book can be a lifelong companion, and is an ideal gift for new Bahá’ís.

5"x7", 404pp., preface, introduction, references, bibliography, notes Bahá’í Publishing Trust of the United Kingdom

BACK IN STOCK

U.H.J. Compilations

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

RECENT NEW TITLES

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

Days of Ridván HC $14.95

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

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

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 net

The Bahá’í Faith in America, Vol. I, 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

The Invisible Hand Shaping the New World Order by 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.

5-3/8" x 8-7/8", 110 pp., table of contents, introduction, bibliography Whitcomb Publishing, Inc.

Education on Trial by 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.

5-¼" x 8-13/16", 217 pp., table of contents, acknowledgements, introduction, bibliography Oneworld Publications, Ltd.

Bahá’í Distribution Service / 1-800-999-9019 5397 Wilbanks Dr., Chattanooga, TN 37343 FAX 1-615-843-0836 AKA____

Ordered by: (Please print or type) ___________________________________ Date ________

Name ___________________________________________________________________

Address _________________________________________________________________

City ___________________________________ State ________ Zip _______________

Circle one: AMEX MasterCard VISA Check Money Order on Account

Expiration Date: _______________ Account Number: _____________________________

Daytime Phone: _________________

QTY	TITLE	COST	AMOUNT
ORDER FORM			TOTAL

[Page 8]

Bahá’ís invited to design, construct banners for second World Congress

Bahá’í communities throughout North America are invited to design and construct a two-sided fabric banner for use in decorating various events and locations at the second Bahá’í World Congress in November.

Other than the name of the Assembly, community or Bahá’í school, which must appear at the bottom of the banner, you are free to create whatever design you would like.

Both sides must be designed, although they can have different treatments on each side.

Each banner must include the name of the sponsoring group or entity in English on one side. If another language is spoken or used by the sponsoring group (such as Spanish, Cherokee, Laotian, etc.) you are encouraged to use that language on the other side. English may be used on both sides, if desired.

Use a simple type style in a contrasting color band 10 inches (25 cm) high across the bottom of the banner.

Each banner is 10 feet square. ‎a A‎ 4-inch (10-cm) deep “pipe sleeve” must be sewn into the top hem to facilitate hanging the banner (the pipe will be supplied). Side and bottom hems are strongly recommended. Metal grommets should be put into the four corners and center top.

Be sure to use fabrics with permanent color and that are pre-shrunk, since each finished banner will have to be sprayed in New York with a fire-proofing solution to meet strict fire codes.

If you have questions, please phone John Kavelin, coordinator of design, at the Bahá’í National Center, 708-869-9039, ext. 283.

BIC representative Ahderom travels to Guyana to speak at banquet launching Holy Year there

In June, Techeste Ahderom, senior representative to the United Nations for the Bahá’í International Community (BIC), traveled to Guyana at the invitation of that country’s National Spiritual Assembly to be the keynote speaker at a banquet sponsored to launch the Holy Year in Guyana.

In a rare joint appearance, reserved mainly for state occasions, both the President and Prime Minister of Guyana attended the banquet, held on June 19. Among the more than 250 guests were top officials of government departments and religious groups.

Mr. Ahderom, speaking on “Bahá’u’lláh and His Works,” spoke about His Mission, His suffering, and His world-embracing influence. Mr. Ahderom’s address ended with an invitation to his audience to examine carefully the claims of Bahá’u’lláh and His message to humanity.

On June 18, Mr. Ahderom paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Hamilton Green, who recently addressed the Bahá’í National Convention in Wilmette, Illinois. During that meeting, a formal presentation of the Bahá’í children’s book on the environment, “Tomorrow Belongs to the Children,” was made to the Prime Minister.

Mr. Ahderom’s visit received coverage in the Guyana Chronicle, and he was interviewed on national television.

A courtesy call was also paid to President Demond Hoyte, during which Mr. Ahderom informed the President about the development of the Faith and the work of the Bahá’ís at the United Nations.

“The atmosphere in Guyana is friendly, open and tolerant,” said Mr. Ahderom. “The President has set up an advisory committee on religion that includes representatives of the Muslim, Christian, Hindu and Bahá’í faiths, and interfaith activities are encouraged.”

Presently, more than six percent of the population of Guyana is Bahá’í.

Techeste Ahderom (second from left), main representative of the Bahá’í International Community (BIC) to the United Nations, presents a copy of “Tomorrow Belongs to the Children,” a collection of art and writings by children on conservation, to the Hon. Hamilton Green, Prime Minister of Guyana. The collection was produced and published by the BIC and the National Spiritual Assembly of Brazil with support from the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Masrour Association for Family Welfare and Education (ASMA). Looking on are Hazel Griffith (left) and Beverly Fung.

33rd Annual Greenlake Bahá’í Conference

September 18 – 20, 1992 1:00 PM Friday to 1:00 PM Sunday Registration begins Friday at 11:00 AM, Kraft Administration Bldg.

“Know Thou the Value of These Days”

These words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá have been chosen as the conference theme during this Holy Year. An outstanding program will again bring together inspiring speakers, interludes of meditation and prayer, intertwined with exceptional creations by artists and performers, and unique audio-visual presentations. Children’s programs are planned. Suheil Bushrui, Ernestine Berkey and Robert Harris will be integral components of an exciting Youth Program. Some of the major topics of the conference will be: Bahá’u’lláh, the Covenant, the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, and the Holy Year.

Speakers Include:

• Dr. Suheil Bushrui, Professor & Holder of First Bahá’í Chair for World Peace at the University of Maryland
• Mrs. Javidukht Khadem, Auxiliary Board Member for Protection
• Mr. Robert Harris, Former member of the Continental Board of Counselors and Auxiliary Board now serving on Media Task Force for the World Congress
• Mr. Kevin Locke, Auxiliary Board Member for Propagation
• Dr. Jenna Khodadad, Doctor of Molecular Biology & Professor at Rush Medical School
• Mr. Robert Malouf, Auxiliary Board Member for Propagation
• Mrs. Ernestine Berkey, Commissioner on Black Affairs for the State of Oregon and Consultant for Synergy II

Two Friday Forums Each will be offered twice: 1-2:45 & 3:15-5

• “Attracting the Holy Spirit” ...Prayer and Meditation, Robert Malouf, Manijeh Khorshidi
• “Bringing the Holy Spirit Home”...Family Life, Dick & Ann Rundall

Note: No child care available during Forums

Additional Program Information For additional program-related information or a copy of the conference flyer, contact: Carolyn Malouf, Secretary, Cedarburg, WI 53012 or call (414) 375-0159 after 6 PM

Children/Youth Program “Connecting the Heart to Bahá’u’lláh” Nursery through youth programs. Pre-registration correspondence should be directed to: Janine Petersen, Children & Youth Registrar, Stoughton, WI 53589, (608) 873-0962. All children and youth must pre-register!

Accommodations & Meal Registration All housing and meal registrations should be made as soon as possible directly with the American Baptist Assembly, Registration, Green Lake, WI 54941, Phone (414) 294-3323 or (800) 558-8898.

Conference Fees

• Ages up to 11 - no charge
• Overnight adult 12 and up: $15.00
• Overnight child under 12: $10.00
• Day guests adults/children: $10.00
• Maximum family fee: $40.00
• Grounds fee - day guests: $ 2.50

Fees are payable at the time of registration only. Do not send payment in advance.

RACE UNITY

National Spiritual Assembly suggests some activities

Some Suggested Race Unity Activities from the National Spiritual Assembly

To aid your consultation, we offer the following activities for your consideration:

TEACHING

• Focus individual and community firesides on Bahá’u’lláh, His teachings on race unity and the oneness of humankind.
• Make presentations on The Vision of Race Unity at schools. (Presentations could be made by youth, children and/or adults.)
• Work toward the integration of all educational institutions in your locality.
• Encourage the believers to initiate personal teaching campaigns to introduce the Faith and its teachings on race unity to their friends, relatives, neighbors, classmates, associates, colleagues and so forth.
• Encourage every Bahá’í employer to set an example by working vigorously to integrate his/her business and to make services available to people of all races.
• Encourage the ‎Bahá’í’s Bahá’ís‎ in your community to promote fair employment practices in their organizations.
• Encourage the ‎Bahá’í’s Bahá’ís‎ in your community to help organizations that are actively working for civil rights.

PROCLAMATION

• Present to your mayor/village president and other local government officials and prominent persons the open letter to President George Bush and The Vision of Race Unity: America’s Most Challenging Issue.
• Publish the open letter to the President as a guest commentary in your local newspapers.
• Send a letter from your local ‎Spritual Spiritual‎ Assembly or Bahá’í group to the editors of your local newspapers incorporating the open letter to the President.
• Prepare scripts on the oneness of humanity and offer them to local radio stations as public service announcements.
• Purchase advertisement space in local newspapers for statements and events promoting race unity.
• Sponsor public walks, picnics or other social gatherings for race unity.
• Seek air time on radio and/or television talk shows to discuss the Bahá’í view of race unity.

PUBLIC SERVICE

• Offer workshops for children, youth and adults on race unity.
• Sponsor conferences, workshops and/or other public discussions on race unity.
• Collaborate with local public officials and/or other like-minded organizations on conducting a study of models of unity in your locality.
• Organize forums for children, youth and adults to discuss the effects of racism.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

• Hold study classes and candid consultations about the need to foster race unity within your Bahá’í community.
• Establish community task forces/institutes to promote models of race unity.

[Page 9]

Uniqueness

(from page 1)

Bahá’u’lláh in 1892, described the manner of Bahá’u’lláh’s revelation as follows:

“In those days Mírzá Áqá Ján, as instructed by Bahá’u’lláh, would first read the letters to him and then, as Bahá’u’lláh dictated, write the Tablets in answer to them. The verses of God were revealed with great rapidity and without prior contemplation or meditation. By reason of the speed with which they were written, the recorded words were mostly illegible. Some of them no one could read; even Mírzá Áqá Ján himself at times had difficulty deciphering his own writing and had to seek the help of Bahá’u’lláh for clarification. ...I had the great privilege of being present on two occasions when Tablets were being revealed. ...The Holy Words were flowing from His lips as He paced up and down the room, and His amanuensis was recording them. ...It is not easy to describe the manner in which revelation came to Bahá’u’lláh.” (quoted in Adib Taherzadeh, The Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh, Vol. 1, pp. 36-37)

Perhaps no better comment on the nature and significance of Bahá’u’lláh’s revelation can be found than these words of the Báb, who was commenting on His own revelatory experience:

“THE EVIDENCE set forth by God can never be compared with the evidences produced by any one of the peoples and kindreds of the earth. ...Moreover, the proof of revealed verses doth, alone and of itself, conclusively demonstrate the utter impotence of all created things on earth, for this is a proof which hath proceeded from God and shall endure until the Day of Resurrection. ...For if one from whose life only 24 years have passed [the Báb], and who is devoid of those sciences wherein all are learned, now reciteth verses after such fashion without thought or hesitation, writes a thousand verses of prayer in the course of five hours without pause of the pen, and produceth commentaries and learned treatises... in a manner which doctors and philosophers confess surpasseth their power of understanding, then there is no doubt that all that hath been manifested is divinely inspired. Notwithstanding their life-long diligent study, what pains do these divines take when writing a single line of Arabic! Yet after such efforts the result is but words which are unworthy of mention.” (Selections from the Writings of the Báb, p. 109)

The nature of the revelation experienced by the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh contrast not only to the literary output of learned figures, but to the revelations of previous Manifestations as well.

We have only fragmentary descriptions of Muhammad’s revelatory experience, and no comments at all about the way Jesus, Moses, Buddha, or Zoroaster revealed. Indeed, the very revelations of the earlier Manifestations were recorded in a limited fashion, and only years or centuries after the death of the Manifestation.

IN THE CASE of Abraham, who lived about 2000 B.C., the Bible records nearly no words by Him at all, and scholars have determined that most likely none of the stories about Abraham assumed written form before about 1000 B.C. Moses died about 1200 B.C., and accounts of His revelation probably remained in oral form for about two centuries. No one even knows when Zoroaster lived—the estimates range from 500 to 1200 B.C.—but according to Zoroastrian tradition the scriptures containing His words were all burned when Alexander the Great invaded Iran about 330 B.C., and the Zoroastrian scripture that exists today—the Avesta—is a reconstruction of a fragment of the earlier corpus.

Words of the Buddha remained in oral form for five centuries or more; Shoghi Effendi has concluded that “we cannot be sure of the authenticity of the scriptures of Buddha.” (quoted in Lights of Guidance, 2nd. ed., no. 1695)

As for the words of Jesus, the earliest Christian writings—by the Apostle Paul—quote Him very little, and the gospels were probably written from 40 to 60 years after His death.

Only in the case of the Qur’án—parts of which were written down during the lifetime of Muhammad, and the rest within a few years of the Prophet’s death—do we have a previous scripture that, in the words of Shoghi Effendi, is “wholly authentic.” (Lights of Guidance, no. 1688)

Thus there is a sharp contrast between the revelations of the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh and the revelations of the previous Manifestations. This contrast is well described by a saying of one of the imáms that “knowledge is twenty and seven letters. All that the Prophets have revealed are two letters thereof. ... But when the Qá’im [the Báb] shall arise, He will cause the remaining twenty and five letters to be made manifest.” (The Kitáb-i-Íqán, p. 243)

When one remembers the Báb’s assurances that the writings of “Him Whom God shall make manifest” [Bahá’u’lláh] shall be far greater than His own, one begins to grasp the vast difference between the revelation of Bahá’u’lláh and those of the previous Manifestations. (The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 100) The reason the gap exists, Bahá’u’lláh Himself informs us, is because of the growing spiritual capacity of humanity. (The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 117)

The contrast between Bahá’u’lláh and the previous Manifestations is also sharp when we examine their lives and times. With some Manifestations we cannot even be certain when they lived, hence very little can be said about what the world around them was like. This prevents us from studying their revelation in the context of the times in which they lived.

FOR EVEN recent Manifestations such as Jesus and Muhammad, there are serious gaps in our knowledge of their lives; for example, we do not know the years of their births. But with Bahá’u’lláh we have detailed, intimate information about His life and of the people around Him and the world events that He commented on; consequently we can understand Bahá’u’lláh, and His divine revelation, with unprecedented clarity. Future historians will find this aspect of Bahá’u’lláh’s life particularly unique and important, and many will re-examine the lives of the previous Manifestations in the light of Bahá’u’lláh’s life and teachings.

The uniqueness of Bahá’u’lláh is highlighted even more profoundly when one considers the statements in the Bahá’í scriptures about His dispensation. Shoghi Effendi explains that all the Manifestations from Adam through the Báb constituted a single cycle, the “cycle of prophecy.” They were the Manifestations of humankind’s infancy; they nurtured the child-species that was humanity, helped it grow, and promised it a glorious future when peace and justice would reign.

With Bahá’u’lláh began a new prophetic cycle, the cycle of the fulfillment of the earlier promises, the cycle of human maturity. While the Adamic cycle lasted about 6,000 years—roughly the length of time that humanity has had towns and civilized life—the cycle of Bahá’u’lláh is destined to last 500,000 years. During the next half-million years there will be many Manifestations of God, but they will all fall under the shadow of Bahá’u’lláh. This is the promise of both ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and Shoghi Effendi. (The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, pp. 103-11)

BOTH statements in the Bahá’í writings and the testimony of history make it clear that Bahá’u’lláh is the greatest Manifestation to have lived on earth in a long time; and the Bahá’í scriptures also make it clear that He will be the greatest for a long period of time in the future as well.

Bahá’u’lláh Himself has called this time “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.” Bahá’u’lláh adds that “the Scriptures of past Dispensations celebrate the great jubilee that must needs greet this most great Day of God.” (The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 106)

The privilege of living close in time to the earthly life of God’s greatest Manifestation is a unique bounty. It is one of God’s gifts to us that we remember during this Holy Year.

Unity

(from page 1)

low-up to the recent letter to President Bush; focusing on America’s social agenda in light of its destiny as foreseen in the Bahá’í Writings; and the release of a second statement on race unity, which will be a fuller exposition of the themes covered in the letter addressed last year to the American people.

The National Spiritual Assembly is forming a network of Bahá’í experts from various fields to provide consulting services on racism and other social problems to non-Bahá’í organizations—and the Assembly will soon put into operation a restructured national administration designed to focus more fully on promulgating the Bahá’í principle of oneness “in His Name and in obedience to His command.”

Mrs. Beverly Abercrombie of Reston, Virginia, performs a medley of songs during that community’s Race Unity Day observance June 19. The main speaker was Dean Mohr, a Bahá’í from Washington, D.C.

Bahá’í communities across country observe Race Unity Day with wide range of activities

ARIZONA

A “Unity March,” sponsored by the Bahá’ís of Tucson, was held May 29, just before a program commemorating the Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh. Tucson’s vicemayor took part in the candlelight procession, as did many Christians, Buddhists and Hare Krishnas. About 10 non-Bahá’ís attended the Ascension program afterward. Flyers distributed before the walk included a summary of the life of Bahá’u’lláh and an introduction to the Faith. The event was covered in both local newspapers.

CALIFORNIA

A teaching institute in Modesto has been focusing on Southeast Asian populations. Last year there were nine enrollments as a result of these efforts, with 14 more new believers since the beginning of the Holy Year. The Bahá’ís are holding regular children’s classes and have established good relations with a local Buddhist Temple. The Bahá’ís have been instrumental in organizing a race unity task force in the area. Their Race Unity Day celebration was held on July 11.

COLORADO

The Bahá’í communities of Denver and Englewood co-hosted a Race Unity Day picnic attended by 100 people, 25 of whom were not Bahá’ís. The event, which received television coverage, was supported by Patterns of Unity, an area teaching institute. In an ongoing effort, the teaching institute will hold a series of workshops on race unity in a public library. Public forums on race unity have also been sponsored by various Bahá’í communities in the Denver metro area over the past several months.

See ACTIVITIES page 15

Reports of race unity activities sought

What is your community doing to foster race unity? The National Spiritual Assembly is collecting reports of race unity-related activities from across the country. If you or your Bahá’í community are involved in such activities, please send a written report (with photos when available) to the National Teaching Office, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone the Teaching Office at 708-869-9039. [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 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, NMHU 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 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 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, NMHU 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 Tina Rawls, 817-539-7516.

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 ‎implementor 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: Don and Anne MacNally, Wilhelm F. Madsen, Hilda Yen Male (died Riverdale, NY, 1970), Johnice Malone, Max Mandel, Mary Keene Manero, Grace Tahirih K. Mann, Lillian Manson, Ayned Marangella, and Irene Marangella. 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 materials documenting teaching activities on Indian Reservations and among Hispanic and Asian populations, including tape recordings, letters, reports, personal recollections and photographs. Anyone having materials they could donate is asked to send them to the National Bahá’í Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

WANTED

THE ESCUELA Bilingüe Bahá’í Raúl Pavón in Otavalo, Ecuador, has been functioning for nine years. We have kindergarten through sixth grade and are known in the area for having the highest academic standards. We greatly need someone to take care of our youth library. It is not necessary to have a degree in library science, just a working knowledge. It’s an ideal situation for a retired person: mild year-round climate, low cost of living, and gentle mannered local people. If interested, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039).

WANTED: Bahá’ís who are professional journalists to form a national association, federation, network, discussion group or information exchange. Print, radio, television and cable included. How many of us are there? Please contact Carol Grady, P.O. Box 7671, Louisville, KY 40257.

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: Stories about the annual souvenir of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in Teaneck, New Jersey. If possible, labeled photographs with names and the year. An extensive history of the event is being compiled for publication. Please contact Dr. Joel Nizin, Ridgewood, NJ 07450.

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).

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 conjunction 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.

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).

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).

POETS! POETS! Would you like time to work on your writing without interruption? Would you like to give public poetry readings of your work? Would you like to be supported for your creativity? If so, contact the Louhelen Bahá’í School for information about the Robert Hayden Poetry Fellowship. Write to 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423, or phone 313-653-5033. [Page 11]

World News

The following are excerpts from cables, telexes and e-mail messages received at the World Center from National Conventions.

ALASKA—"Love and greetings from the...36th annual Convention. ...A spirit of joy, a fresh feeling of spirituality, of loving energy and united assurance pervaded our consultation."

BANGLADESH—"Grateful confirmations Blessed Beauty enabling humble servants Bangladesh achieve majority goals [Six Year] Plan. Pledge...make effort practice more accurately Bahá’í standard in our daily lives."

BERMUDA—"The trumpet blasts of your poignant Riḍván message galvanized the delegates...recommended that the incoming National Spiritual Assembly review the current problems which exist in Bermuda, and utilizing the wealth of remedies and aids available through the Holy Writings, formally present this material to the leaders of thought in Bermuda."

BOPHUTHATSWANA—"...wait with great anticipation for the release of the English translation of the Kitáb-i-Aqdas which will enable us to translate it into Setswana and thereby further our understanding of and firmness in Bahá’u’lláh’s Covenant."

CANADA—"In the tradition of this great land’s original peoples, it is our special prayer that we may become as Thunderbirds, soaring on the quickening wind of the Word of God to carry out the standard of reverence, harmony and unity, and taking the healing Message of Bahá’u’lláh to every part of the Canadian nation and beyond."

CHAD—"On the occasion of 20th Convention...happy to announce formation of 680 local Spiritual Assemblies with 1,150 localities."

CHILE—"With the attendance of delegates from nearly all over the country...urgent goals to be fulfilled were made known...souls were raised up...offering their time to serve. ..."

COSTA RICA—"With much love from the delegates at the 32nd National Convention. ...Ten indigenous communities represented. ...For the first time three indigenous communities represented by women. ..."

CÔTE D’IVOIRE—"The presence of delegates...from Liberia, a country suffering from war and deprived of the privilege of holding its National Convention, enriched the consultation and increased the power of unity in diversity."

CYPRUS—"The friends gathered at the 15th Convention...first to be held in new Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds [situated in Cyprus north]...humbly offer to Bahá’u’lláh the successes of the Six Year Plan, including three times as many local believers and twice as many local Assemblies as in 1986."

EASTERN CAROLINE ISLANDS—"...all the delegates from the states of Pohnpei and Kosrae participated. ...For the first time a delegate from the island of Satowan was elected and submitted a ballot. A spirit of love and devotion characterized the proceedings."

ETHIOPIA—"The friends gathered were both elated and astounded at the remarkable achievements of the Six Year Plan throughout the world...and felt particularly overjoyed with the rare triumph of the formation of 12 new National and Regional Assemblies which has taken place during this critical period of history."

FIJI—"...the 23rd Convention [was] the first to be held outside Suva. ...A delegation of Bahá’ís representing all races in Fiji made a dignified presentation to the village chief. ..."

FRANCE—"Forty-eight delegates from all parts of France, at the 35th Convention...unanimously dedicated their deliberations to the memory of Bahman Samandari and the Hand of the Cause of God William Sears. ...As a beginning, 6,000 copies of the book Bahá’u’lláh were made available to the friends for proclamation to all segments of society."

GERMANY—"Historic 62nd National Convention voted with total number of delegates in the presence of the national television, at which occasion an exceptional spiritual atmosphere was vibrating in the convention hall with unity and vision."

GHANA—"Highlight of Convention [was the] inauguration of Holy Year at the Ghana National Museum in the heart of Accra metropolis. Wide press coverage. ...Inspiring songs released by Bowodie Bahá’í community commemorated Holy Year."

GREECE—"With increased maturity, enthusiasm and awareness of this crucial moment, the 16th National Convention brought forth new inspiration for reflection and action. ...The reception for the official inauguration of the Holy Year...was attended by 75 people, half of them non-Bahá’ís."

GUINEA-BISSAU—"Consultations allowed us to enrich our preparations for the Holy Year. ...We were able to [surpass] our goal of 36 local Spiritual Assemblies for the Six Year Plan; we now have 40."

GUYANA—"National Convention befittingly imbued spiritual atmosphere [and] sacredness. Deeply moved mention of Guyana Project [in Riḍván message]. ..."

HAWAIIAN ISLANDS—"29th National Convention...dedicated in loving memory of Hand of the Cause of God William Sears. ...After powerful program on life of Blessed Beauty, [the] Mayor of Kauai...accepted the statement on Bahá’u’lláh. ..."

HONDURAS—"Astonished participation and...spiritual transformation of an ever-increasing number of diverse believers. Humbly offering victories [including] 23,000 new believers and constant participation of more than 100 of them in teaching. ..."

IRELAND—"Joyful greetings 21st annual Convention. Enthusiastic fruitful consultation. ...Pride felt outstanding service Irish pioneers Eastern Europe. The Hand of the Cause of God William Sears warmly remembered in memorial service. His presence first Convention...never forgotten."

ITALY—"The Ḥuqúqu’lláh, the most Holy Book, teaching in the former Eastern Bloc countries, pioneering and service were among the topics dealt with during consultation. ...Galvanized by the encouraging achievements in Albania, the Convention consulted on further ways to assist the newly-born community."

MALAWI—"Thirty-five delegates and over 100 friends [gathered at] 22nd Convention. ...Triumphant conclusion Six Year Plan [with] established eve Riḍván 137 local Assemblies."

MALI—"Happy to announce holding 8th National Convention. ...A first: three women delegates [were present], one of whom, a native representing the North-East, was elected secretary of the Convention."

MARIANA ISLANDS—"Suggestions to the incoming National Spiritual Assembly include increasing the commitment and support to our Bahá’í youth...fostering increased levels of intercultural awareness and sensitivity...and encouraging teaching with audacity and originality."

MEXICO—"The 32nd National Convention was held...at the National Bahá’í Center. Consultation was focused on the Holy Year and the significance of the Ḥuqúqu’lláh. ..."

MYANMAR—"34th annual Convention. ...53 delegates, more than 1,500 friends attended. Prize-giving ceremony for the children by the Education Committee and students by the Correspondence Committee held."

NAMIBIA—"12th National Spiritual Assembly elected. ...Deepening Riḍván message lays foundation inspired consultation on teaching, proclaiming Name Bahá’u’lláh. Convention receives two declarations [of faith], friends galvanized vision glorious year."

NETHERLANDS—"...36 delegates were gathered in the beautiful conference site of ‘De Poort’. ...Some time was specially dedicated to hold dear the memory of the lately ascended Hand of the Cause of God William Sears. ..."

NEW CALEDONIA AND LOYALTY ISLANDS—"The 15 delegates...inspired by the Riḍván message...pledge to put into practice six prerequisites for spiritual growth—to pray each day; to read the Sacred Writings every morning and evening; to meditate on the Writings; to live the Bahá’í life; to teach the Cause of God; to serve the Cause and our profession—in order that the prophecies will be fulfilled and that in the islands of the Pacific, the head of the Faith will rear itself in the midmost heart of the ocean."

PANAMA—"...glorious entry by troops in Kuna Yala amounting to 1,184 [with] 214 new believers in other provinces. ...Constant mobilization native pioneers points to significant progress Faith in Panama."

PERU—"Radiant and thankful for the enlightened guidance given in the 1992 Riḍván message. ...The delegates analyzed the efforts behind the election of 239 local Spiritual Assemblies during Riḍván...as well as the recovery of 42 Assemblies...and the entry by troops [of] at least 1,235 new believers."

RUSSIA, GEORGIA AND ARMENIA—"The Bahá’ís...gathered at the National Convention in St. Petersburg send their heartfelt greetings and their profound gratitude. ...It is our hope that in this Holy Year the people of our countries will attain a spiritual renaissance of unprecedented heights, and the warmth and love of the Bahá’í teachings will take deep root in their hearts."

SOUTH AFRICA—"We are overjoyed at wide representation...in the largest ever National Convention with over 260 participants. Friends determined to reach all hearts with Name and Message Bahá’u’lláh, especially in this critical phase history of this country."

SWEDEN—"We are excited and full of expectations, consulting on the Holy Year and making preparations for the Three Year Plan. We joyfully announce the first professionally produced video in the Swedish language for the mass media on teaching and proclamation of the Cause."

TONGA—"Hearts awestruck with deep gratefulness at numerous victories of Six Year Plan in Bahá’í world. Sixty-five local Spiritual Assemblies formed in Tonga during B.E. 148."

CENTRO LOCAL BAHÁ’Í DE JINOTEPE

In Nicaragua, young Bahá’ís met in January with Costa Rican youth who offered teacher training classes. The young travelers are working with believers who want to learn how to give children’s classes in their respective communities.

KAMÁL B.E. 149 / AUGUST 1, 1992 [Page 12]بهائی با اظهار امر خفی حضرت بهاء‌الله زاده شد. هیکل مبارک کیفیت اظهار امر را در قالب استعاره و تشبیه چنین بیان فرموده اند: "در ایام توقف در سجن ارض طاء، اگر چه نوم از زحمت سلاسل و روائح مُنتِنه قلیل بود، ولکن بعضی اوقات که دست می داد احساس می شد از جهت اعلای رأس چیزی بر صدر می ریخت، به مثابه رودخانه عظیمی که از قلّه جبل باذخ رفیعی بر ارض بریزد و به آن جهت از جمیع اعضاء آثار نار ظاهر و در آن حین لسان قرائت می نمود آنچه را که بر إصغاء آن احدی قادر نه."

اظهار امر جهری حضرت بهاء‌الله در سال ۱۸۶۳ در بغداد صورت گرفت. در غروب روز ۲۲ اپریل آن سال حضرت بهاء‌الله پیش از عزیمت به اسلامبول وارد باغ نجیبیه شدند و در همانجا علناً مقام خود را به همراهان اظهار فرمودند. چنانکه حضرت ولی امرالله فرموده اند، متأسفانه از جزئیات دوران اظهار امر جهری حضرت بهاء‌الله اطلاعات دقیقی در دست نیست. با این حال اهمیت این رویداد تاریخی را در "لوح قرن" چنین بیان فرموده اند: "در حین حرکت از زوراء [بغداد] به مدینه کبیره [اسلامبول] در باغ نجیبیه، پس از انقضای سنین مهلت، در میقات معلوم، جمال مستور نقاب از رخ برانداخت و سلطان قیّوم بر سریر سلطنت الهیه جالس گشت و مکلّم طور بر عرش ظهور استقرار یافت.... وجمیع ممکنات در بحر طهارت مُنغمس گردید.... و مالک یوم الدین، به فرموده مبشر امر ربّ العالمین، در انتهای واحد و ابتدای ثمانین ظاهر و باهر گشت.... جشن اعظم و بزم اتم برپا شد.... نسائم غفران از مهبّ عنایت بر هیاکل اکوان مرور نمود و هیاکل ممکنات از تضوّع این نفحات تجدید گشت."

آمار گسترش انتشار امر مبارک در دائرة المعارف بریتانیکا

BAHÁ’Í FAITH IN ENCYCLOPEDIA BRITANNICA

دائرة المعارف بریتانیکا هر سال سالنامه ای منتشر می نماید. در سالنامه مربوط به امسال از امر بهائی بعنوان دومین دیانت از لحاظ وسعت انتشار یاد شده است.

در بخش مربوط به "آمار ادیان جهان" این سالنامه گزارش شده است که امر مبارک "پیروان معتنابهی" در ۲۰۵ سرزمین مستقل و غیرمستقل دارد. تنها دینی که بیش از امر مبارک وسعت انتشار دارد، مسیحیت است که پیروانش در ۲۵٤ سرزمین گوناگون سکونت دارند.

دیانت اسلام در ۱۷۲ کشور و آئین یهود در ۱۲۵ کشور و آئین هندی در ۸۸ کشور و دیانت بودائی در ٨٦ کشور پیرو دارند و به ترتیب در رده های سوم به بعد قرار می گیرند.

خدمات خانم عهدیه پاکروان

AHDIEH TOURS THE U.S.

خانم عهدیه پاکروان، خواننده نامدار بهائی در ماه اپریل سال جاری در طی سفر به ۸ شهر در ایالات متحده در برنامه های جمع آوری تبرعات برای صندوق قوس شرکت نمودند. در جریان این برنامه ها ۲۰۸ هزار دلار تبرع و تقبل شد.

سفر خانم عهدیه توسط دفتر امور احبای ایرانی/امریکائی ترتیب یافته و به تصویب محفل روحانی ملی رسیده بود. شهرهایی که این خواننده عزیز بهائی در آنها برنامه اجرا نمود عبارت بود از: Passaic در ایالت نیوجرزی؛ نیوپورت بیچ در ایالت کالیفرنیا؛ سن فرانسیسکو؛ پورتلند در ایالت اورگان؛ ویلمت در ایالت ایلینوی؛ اورلندو در ایالت فلوریدا؛ آتلانتا در ایالت جورجیا و فرفکس کانتی Fairfax County در ایالت ویرجینیا.

برنامه ها با تلاوت مناجات و الواح آغاز می شد و سپس با اجرای برنامه های موسیقی و حراج و ایراد مطالبی درباره اهمیت ساختمان های قوس ادامه می یافت.

مخارج سفر را خود خانم عهدیه بر عهده گرفته بود تا بدین ترتیب کلیه تبرعات تقدیم صندوق قوس شود. همچنین خانم عهدیه اولین نوار ویدیوئی خود را که شامل مناجات ها و آوازهای امری است در اختیار دفتر امور احبای ایرانی/امریکائی قرار داد تا وجوه حاصل از فروش آن نیز تقدیم صندوق قوس شود.

در این برنامه ها حسین، پسر سیزده ساله خانم عهدیه نیز ایشان را با نواختن ارگ همراهی می کرد.

وجوهی که در هر يك از برنامه های خانم عهدیه تبرع یا تقبل شد به شرح زیر است:

پسّه ايك	۳۲ هزار دلار
نيوپورت بيج	۱۸ هزار دلار
سن فرانسيسكو	۵ هزار دلار
پورتلند	۵۰ هزار دلار
ویلمت	۱۸ هزار دلار
اورلندو	۶ هزار دلار
آتلانتا	۱۷ هزار دلار
فرفكس كانتى	۶۲ هزار دلار

چنانکه یاران آگاهی دارند خانم عهدیه ساکن کشور اسپانیا است و از این پیش نیز خدمات شایانی تقدیم جامعه امری امریکا کرده بود و این اولین بار نیست که این خواننده عزیز بهائی نیرو و استعداد خود را در خدمت امر مبارک صرف کرده است. خدماتشان را سپاس می گوئیم و توفیق هر چه بیشتر این هنرمند خدوم را از آستان الهی می طلبیم.

قبول تابعیت ایالات متحده

NATURALIZATION IN THE U.S.

بعضی از اعضاء جامعه بهائی که خواهان قبول تابعیت در ایالات متحده شده اند، از دفتر محفل ملی درباره پاسخ دادن به سؤالات مربوط به حمل اسلحه و خدمت نظام وظیفه کسب تکلیف کرده اند. توضیحات زیر برای روشن شدن این موضوع درج می گردد:

۱ـ قبول تابعیت امری است اختیاری و تشکیلات بهائی نظر موافق یا مخالف ابراز ننموده اند.

۲ـ از آنجا که بهائیان در امور مدنی و غیرعقیدتی مطیع دولت متبوع خود هستند، کسانی که تقاضای تابعیت ایالات متحده را بنمایند، باید در ورقه تقاضای تابعیت به سؤالات ۴٦ و ۴۷ و ۴٨ در خصوص آمادگی برای حمل اسلحه و انجام دادن خدمات غیرجنگی یا غیرنظامی جواب مثبت بدهند. بعلاوه، این افراد می توانند از دفتر محفل ملی تقاضا کنند که نامه ای در تشریح موقف دیانت بهائی در زمینه حمل اسلحه تهیه کنند و برای آنان بفرستند تا آن را همراه تقاضانامه خود به مسؤولان اداره مهاجرت و تابعیت تسلیم نمایند.

یاران عزیز می توانند برای کسب راهنمائی و اطلاعات بیشتر با دفتر منشی محفل روحانی ملی تماس حاصل نمایند.

اشتهار امر مبارک در جهان

EMERGENCE OF THE FAITH FROM OBSCURITY

چنانکه یاران عزیز آگاهی دارند، به تازگی از سوی سازمان ملل متحد کنفرانسی درباره محیط زیست در برزیل تشکیل گردید. جامعه جهانی بهائی و چندین محفل روحانی ملی در این کنفرانس شرکت کردند.

بهائیان از جمله فعال ترین شرکت کنندگان غیردولتی این کنفرانس بودند و جامعه جهانی بهائی ۱۰ برنامه گوناگون فرهنگی ترتیب داد و کتابی حاوی نقاشی های کودکان ارائه کرد.

شرکت احباء در این کنفرانس سبب شد جامعه بهائی با افراد و سازمان های مختلف آشنائی و ارتباط بیشتری حاصل کند.

در ماه جون سال جاری محفل ملی گانا جلسه ای برای بزرگداشت سال مقدس تشکیل داده و از نماینده جامعه جهانی بهائی در سازمان ملل متحد آقای تکسته ادرم Techéste Ahderom دعوت کرده بود که ناطق اصلی آن باشد.

در جلسه ای که تشکیل شد رئیس جمهور گانا و همچنین نخست وزیر آن کشور نیز حضور داشتند. آقای ادرم درباره حضرت بهاء‌الله و آثار مبارك آن حضرت سخنرانی کرد و از مأموریت و ابتلائات جمال قدم و تأثیر امر مبارکش در جهان مطالبی ارائه داشت.

دیدار نماینده اهل بهاء در روزنامه گزارش شد تلویزیون ملی گانا نیز مصاحبه ای با ایشان ترتیب داد.

این رویدادها نمونه هائی از افزایش احترام امر مبارک و شناسائی مقام آن و مشارکت روزافزون نمایندگان جامعه بهائی در مذاکرات بین المللی است.

حقوق الله

HUQUQU’LLAH

از دوستان عزیز مستدعی است تقدیمی های 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 13]

اظهار امر حضرت بهاءالله (‎DECLARAION DECLARATION‎ OF BAHA’U’LLAH)

چنانكه خوانندگان عزيز آگاهى دارند، در ظهور هر يك از مظاهر امر تعبيرات و رموز ديانت سابق از نو تعبير مى شود. امر بهائى نيز از اين حكم كلى جدا نيست. حضرت بهاءالله فرموده اند كه "روح جديد معانى" در "اجساد الفاظ دميده" شده است.

يكى از اصطلاحاتى كه در ديانت اسلام به كار مى رود، كلمة "بعثت" و مفهومى است كه اين كلمه در ذهن اهل اسلام تداعى مى كند. در ديانت اسلام چنين آمده است كه حضرت محمد در ۴٠ سالگى در غار حرا به وساطت جبرئيل محل وحى الهى و به اصطلاح "مبعوث" يا برانگيخته شد كه به انتشار كلام الهى به پا خيزد. از آن پس به مدت ٢٣ سال قرآن بر آن حضرت نازل شد و مدار تمدن و فرهنگ اسلامى در جهان گرديد.

مسلمانان بر اين باورند كه حضرت محمد پيش از بعثت تنها يكى از افراد بشر بوده — هر چند به صفت امانت و درستكارى در ميان مردم امتياز داشته — و مأموريت روحانى آن حضرت پيش از مبعوث شدن بر خود آن حضرت مجهول بوده است.

چنانكه از فحواى روايات "كتاب مقدس" — عهد عتيق — بر مى آيد، يهوديان نيز چنين اعتقادى در بارة حضرت موسى دارند. مشهور است كه حضرت موسى در طور مخاطب كلام الهى واقع شد و از آن پس مأموريت يافت كه راهنماى بنى اسرائيل شود و آن قوم را از اسارت بيرون آورد.

تعبير ديانت بهائى از مفهوم بعثت جز آن است كه اهل اديان پيشين از آن دارند. "بعثت" اصطلاح اهل بهاء نيست و اگر هم در آثار امرى به كار رفته، جهت ايجاد تفاهم و پيوند يا به اصطلاح به "لسان قوم" بوده است تا بهائيان بتوانند با اهل اديان ديگر همزبان باشند.

آنچه در اديان پيشين "بعثت" نام گرفته در امر بهائى "اظهار امر" اصطلاح شده است. البته اين تغيير اصطلاح تنها تغييرى ظاهرى نيست بلكه پيوند جدانشدنى با همة اعتقادات و اصطلاحات امر بهائى دارد. اهل بهاء، انبياء و رسولان را "مظاهر امر الهى" مى نامند، بدين معنى كه نيروى "عالم امر" در اين مظاهر ظاهر مى شود. بهائيان معتقدند كه مظاهر امر الهى از آغاز ولادت مظهر امرند و به مقام مظهريت خود آگاهند، منتهى اين وقوف در آنان به تناسب رشد و بلوغ جسمانى و انسانيشان پديد مى آيد.

ناگفته نمى توان گذاشت كه در آثار مباركة بهائى اشاراتى هست كه مى شود از آن بعنوان قبول مفهوم بعثت — آنچنانكه مثلاً در اسلام وجود دارد — استشهاد كرد. بعنوان مثال حضرت ولى امرالله در "كتاب قرن بديع" مى فرمایند:

كيفيت نزول وحى الهى و تجلى روح اعظم بر صدر مُنّوَر اصفاى سلطان قدم خاطرة پرهيجان رسالات الهيه را در ادوار سابقه و ظهورات ماضيه كه اتم و اعظم و اكمل آن در اين دور افخم ابدع امنع حاصل گرديده در خاطر مجسم مى سازد كه چگونه حضرت كليم در طور سينا نداى الهى را از شجرة موقدة ربانى استماع نمود و حضرت زردشت در اثر رؤیاهای سبعه به مأموریت آسمانی و رسالت یزدانی خویش واقف گردید و حضرت مسیح هنگام خروج از نهر اردن ابواب سماء لایزالی را مفتوح و روح قدسی ربانی را به مثابة حمامه‌ای نازل بر وجود مقدسش ملاحظه نمود و حضرت رسول اکرم در جبل حراء خارج از مکة معظمه از طرف جبرئیل امین به خطاب مستطاب "اقراء باسم ربك الذى خلق" مخاطب گردید و حضرت باب اعظم چون در عالم رؤیا رأس مطهر حضرت سیدالشهداء را آغشته به دم مشاهده نمود و از خون گلوی آن حضرت نوشید دریافت که از جانب خداوند متعال حامل فیض الهی و مأمور ابلاغ پیام آسمانی می باشد." (ج ۲، ص ۶۴)

همچنین حضرت بهاءالله در بیانی که بارها گوشزد احباء بوده و در لوح خطاب به ناصرالدین شاه نازل شده است می فرمایند:

"يا سلطان، انى كنتُ كأحدٍ من العباد و راقداً على المهاد. مرّت علىّ نسائم السبحان و علّمنى علم ما كان. ليس هذا من عندى بل من لدن عزيز علیم." (مضمون بیان فوق به زبان فارسی چنین است: ای سلطان، مانند یکی از بندگان در بستر آرمیده بودم. نسیم پاکی بر من گذشت و دانش بوده و هست را بر من ارزانی داشت. راستی را که اینهمه از من نیست بلکه از جانب آن عزیز دانا است.)

همانگونه که گفته شد باید در نظر داشت که بسیاری از بیاناتی که در آثار مقدسة بهائی آمده در رابطه با ادیان سابق بوده و مطلب به روال تعبیرات و قصص گذشتگان بیان گردیده یا موضوعی روحانی در جامة تشبیه و با استفاده از استعاره تشریح شده است. اما آنجا که غرض تشریح کافی و دقیق مطالب بوده، موضوع بعثت به گونه ای دیگر ارائه شده است.

بر اهل بهاء پوشیده نیست که کتاب "مفاوضات" حضرت عبدالبهاء، مجموعه ای فلسفی و کلامی و عرفانی در شرح بسیاری از اصول اعتقادات امر بهائی است. هیکل مبارک در توضیح بیان نقل شده از لوح سلطان پرده از حقایق کلام الهی برداشته و چنین فرموده اند:

"آمدیم در بیان عبارت مبارک اینکه می فرمایند "يا سلطان، انى كنت.... این مقام تجلّى است، این محسوس نیست، معقول است و این از زمان ماضی و حال و استقبال مبرّا و منزّه است. این تعبیر و تمثیل است؛ مجاز است نه حقیقت، و نه حالتی است که مفهوم انسان است: یعنی خواب بوده بیدار شده است. بلکه انتقال از حالی به حالی است. مثلاً نوم حال سکون است و بیداری حال حرکت؛ نوم حالت صمت است؛ بیداری حالت نطق؛ نوم حالت خفا است و بیداری حالت ظهور... باری مظاهر مقدسه لم يزل حقائق نورانیه بوده و هستند؛ تغییر و تبدّلی در ذات آنها حاصل نگردد. نهایت آن است که قبل از ظهور چون ساکت و صامت، مانند نائمند و بعد از ظهور ناطق و شارق مانند بیدار."

بدین ترتیب هنگامی که از "اظهار امر" حضرت بهاءالله سخن می رود نباید گمان برد که جمال قدم پیش از اظهار امر به مقام و موقع خود آگاه نبوده اند، بلکه باید آن را به معنی ظاهری، یعنی ظاهر ساختن مقام مبارك تعبیر کرد.

در آثار بهائی در ارتباط با حضرت بهاءالله به دو اظهار امر اشاره شده است: اظهار امر خفی و اظهار امر جهری. اظهار امر خفی حضرت بهاءالله در سیاه چال رخ داد. به فرمودة حضرت ولی عزیز امرالله در توقیع نوروز ۱۰۱ بدیع:

"... در حینی که فحول اصحاب حضرت نقطة اولی مقتول و پیروان امرش اکثر مخفی و متشتت و مرعوب... و جمال ابهی به مخاطرات عظیمه محاط و تحت سیاست شدیده واقع و در اعماق آن مقام انتن مسجون و مغلول، بغتة صاعقة غیرت الهی بدرخشید و مستغاث العالمین فریاد و استغاثة مستضعفین اهل بیان را اجابت نمود. در سرّ سرّ، به فرمودة هیکل موعود، نفوس مقدسة مطهرة زکیه تکمیل گشتند و میقات اهل بیان منقضی شد.... انوار صبح هدایت مرّةً أخرىٰ بر آفاق عالم پرتو انداخت و عهد اعزّ افخم جمال قدم و اسم اعظم نقاب از رخ برانداخت."

در تابستان سال ۱۸۵۲ سه نفر بابی به بهانة تقدیم عریضه ای به ناصرالدین شاه به او نزديك شدند و او را از اسب به زیر کشیدند و طپانچه های خود را بر او خالی کردند. در اثر این سوء قصد طهران را آشوب فرا گرفت و فریاد و هیاهو برای دستگیری و مجازات بابیان از هر سوئی برخاست.

حضرت بهاءالله در آن هنگام در خانه ای ییلاقی واقع در افجه در نزدیکی طهران مهمان جعفرقلی خان برادر صدر اعظم زمان، میرزا آقا خان بودند. هر چند صدر اعظم شخصاً پیغام به حضرت بهاءالله فرستاده و ایشان را از آشوب خبردار ساخته بود، با این حال جمال ابهی سواره راهی طهران شدند. شاه از حرکت هیکل مبارک خبر یافت و دستور توقیف ایشان را صادر کرد. بقیة ماجرا را حضرت بهاءالله در لوح "ابن ذئب" چنین توصیف فرموده اند:

"... ما را اخذ نمودند و از نیاوران که در آن ایام مقرّ سلطنت بود، سر برهنه و پای برهنه، پیاده با زنجیر به سجن طهران بردند... و چهار شهر در مقامی که شبه و مثل نداشت مقرّ معيّن نمودند. اما سجن که محل مظلوم و مظلومان بود، فی الحقیقه دخمة تنگ و تاريك و از آن افضل بود. و چون وارد حبس شدیم، بعد از ورود ما را داخل دالانی ظلمانی نمودند. از آنجا سه پلة سراشیب گذشتیم.... اما محل تاريك و معاشر قریب صد و پنجاه نفس از سارقین اموال و قاتلین نفوس و قاطعین طریق بود... اقلام از وصفش عاجز و روائح منتنه اش خارج از بیان.... اگر وقتی آن جناب در انبار حضرت سلطان وارد شوند، از نایب و رئیس آن محل بطلبند که آن دو زنجیر را که یکی به قره گهر و یکی به سلاسل معروف است بنماید، قسم به نيّر عدل که چهار شهر این مظلوم در یکی از این دو معذّب و مغلول."

در فضای سرد و تاريك و ملال آور سیاه چال طهران ناگهان "صاعقة غیرت الهی بدرخشید" و آئین... [Page 14]

Algunos Pensamientos Sobre Expansión

Notas de una serie de charlas dadas por el Consejero Farzam Arbab en Octubre de 1989.

El primer concepto importante con el cual todos estamos familiarizados es que la enseñanza de la Fe es un deber prescrito por Bahá’u’lláh para todos nosotros. Si reflexionamos un momento sobre el significado de esta aparentemente sencilla declaración, llegaremos a ver la enseñanza bajo la misma luz que las otras leyes y enseñanzas de la Fe y empezaremos a comprender que la enseñanza, como las otras leyes y obligaciones, está estrechamente relacionada con nuestro propio desarrollo espiritual. Cuando obedecemos la ley de la oración, por ejemplo, sabemos que al orar estamos obedeciendo una ley espiritual que es esencial para nuestro crecimiento espiritual. No estoy seguro qué tanto nos acordamos de esta idea cuando pensamos acerca de la enseñanza. El enseñar es también un deber y una obligación para cada Bahá’í, y ya que nuestro crecimiento espiritual depende de la obediencia de todas las leyes de Bahá’u’lláh y de hacer todo el esfuerzo por cumplir con todas nuestras obligaciones, el desarrollar nuestro propio potencial espiritual claramente dependerá de la enseñanza de la Fe a otros.

ENTENDEMOS de los Escritos que las leyes reveladas a nosotros por Bahá’u’lláh no son, como ‎El Él‎ mismo nos asegura, “un mero código de leyes”, sino que son los signos de Su amor y dádivas especiales para la humanidad.

“No penséis que os hemos revelado un mero código de leyes. No, más bien, hemos roto el sello del Vino escogido con los dedos de la fuerza y del poder. Esto lo atestigua aquello que ha revelado la Pluma de la Revelación. ¡Meditad sobre esto, oh hombres de perspicacia!” (Sinopsis y Codificación del Kitab-i-Aqdas, pág. 12)

‎El Él‎ nos ha conferido Su dádiva especial al darnos las leyes básicas de la existencia espiritual, las leyes del crecimiento de un alma humana y del florecimiento de la civilización humana. Sabemos, por ejemplo, que la oración es una expresión natural del amor a Dios. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá nos ha recordado que si uno ama a otra persona, entonces uno por supuesto desea hablar con él. Cuando amamos a Dios una expresión natural de ese amor es nuestro deseo de orar a ‎El Él‎.

Ahora permítanme sugerirles que la enseñanza debería ser también una expresión natural del amor que tenemos a la humanidad. De la misma manera que encontraríamos contradictorio decir, “Yo amo a Dios pero no voy a orar a ‎El Él‎, nunca me siento conmovido a orar a ‎El Él‎.”, nosotros debemos sentirnos por lo menos incómodos al pensar, “Yo amo a la humanidad, pero no me interesa enseñar a la gente y ofrecerles las grandes bendiciones que resultan de aceptar a Bahá’u’lláh como la Manifestación de Dios para este Día.” Hay un pasaje muy hermoso escrito por Mirzá Abu’l-Fadl en el cual ‎él él‎ analiza la idea del amor a la humanidad. ‎El Él‎ explica qué tan fácil es para cualquiera de nosotros sentarse cómodamente en nuestra sala y decir, “Yo amo a la humanidad”. Pero según ‎él él‎, el amor solamente se vuelve real cuando éste es probado. Solamente cuando hemos luchado en batallas de amor y hemos sido heridos una y otra vez por su causa podemos pronunciar las palabras, “Yo amo” con autoridad y confianza. De la misma manera, la enseñanza no puede quedar como una idea abstracta. Esta enseñanza que es una expresión del amor por la humanidad tiene que convertirse en una realidad, tiene que traducirse en acción para que pruebe ser un verdadero signo de amor, de un amor real por los seres humanos, no un amor abstracto por una idealización de la humanidad.

Decir que la enseñanza es una expresión natural del amor por la humanidad no significa necesariamente que si no enseñamos no amamos a la humanidad. Hay otros factores involucrados tales como el miedo, la falta de confianza, la timidez, etc. Pero esto significa que además del amor, hay otras cualidades que tenemos que poseer para que nuestro amor se exprese naturalmente en la enseñanza. La fe y la confianza en Dios son las principales entre estas cualidades; así podemos decir que la enseñanza es una expresión natural de fe, fe en Bahá’u’lláh en el hecho de que la humanidad necesita de ‎El Él‎, y que a través de Sus enseñanzas el mundo cambiará y un nuevo orden mundial será establecido. Permítanme sugerir que la enseñanza es una expresión natural de aún otra cualidad, la generosidad: un sentimiento de querer dar. Una de las características más importantes de un Bahá’í es su deseo de dar, dar de sí mismo y dar a otros lo que es precioso para ‎él él‎. Y si la Fe es la cosa más preciosa que nosotros tenemos, sería muy extraño no querer compartirla con ninguna otra persona. Esto sería contradictorio. Estoy seguro que todos conocen estas palabras de Bahá’u’lláh:

“Dar y ser generoso son atributos Míos; dichoso aquel que se adorna con Mis virtudes” (Palabras Ocultas, Persa No. 49)

Es muy importante que en nuestro entendimiento de estas palabras de Bahá’u’lláh nosotros asociemos la generosidad por lo menos con dar a los Fondos de la Fe y dar nuestro tiempo en servicio a la Causa y también a la enseñanza.

HAY OTRO punto relacionado con este entendimiento de la enseñanza como un deber de cada Bahá’í que merece nuestra atención. Si la enseñanza está tan íntimamente ligada con nuestro propio crecimiento espiritual, y si es una expresión de nuestras cualidades espirituales, tales como el amor a la humanidad, generosidad y fe, también tenemos que entender que aunque en algún momento dado no sintamos el deseo de enseñar, debemos de todas maneras hacer el esfuerzo de enseñar. Esto es porque cuando practicamos una cualidad espiritual, nosotros aseguramos que ella realmente se desarrolle. En el caso de la oración, cuando oramos a Dios la motivación es el amor a Dios, pero al orar a Dios aumentamos nuestro amor por ‎El Él‎. Entonces, aún en los momentos cuando no nos sentimos inspirados a orar, decimos nuestras oraciones obligatorias porque sabemos que el acto de orar en sí mismo crea en nosotros la condición del amor. De la misma manera, la enseñanza a la vez que es una expresión de amor por la humanidad, también aumenta nuestro amor a la humanidad. No es sólo que la enseñanza es una expresión de nuestro deseo de dar y ser generoso, y no guardar las cosas para nosotros mismos, es que el acto de enseñar se vuelve más desinteresado, menos egoísta y nuestra capacidad de dar aumenta enormemente. No hay diferencia a este respecto entre la enseñanza y las otras leyes y deberes de esta Dispensación.

Al examinar más la enseñanza desde este mismo punto de vista, uno podría decir que un primer aspecto de la enseñanza, que nosotros llamamos la proclamación es, en cierto sentido, una expresión del amor general por la humanidad. Sentimos este amor, por lo tanto lo proclamamos a una cantidad de gente, a personas con las cuales no estamos en contacto inmediato, a la humanidad en general, o a un segmento de la humanidad. La proclamación es, por supuesto, un componente muy importante de la enseñanza, y ésta es ciertamente una expresión alegre y maravillosa de nuestro amor a la humanidad. El propósito de la proclamación es, en general, ganar amigos para la Fe, atraerlos, crear en los corazones de la gente buenos sentimientos acerca de la Fe, y darles información correcta para que ellos sepan qué significa la Fe Bahá’í. Grandes números de declaraciones ocurren rara vez como resultado directo de la proclamación. Existen, por supuesto, ciertos individuos quienes están preparados por Dios para que al momento en que oigan de la Fe, empiecen a investigar por sí mismos y tarde o temprano lleguen a ser Bahá’ís. Por eso es importante recordar que el propósito de la proclamación se logre cuando los corazones están atraídos a la Revelación de Bahá’u’lláh.

Ahora, quisiera sugerirles que al participar solamente en actos de proclamación de la Fe, no cumplimos plenamente con nuestra obligación de enseñar. El amor que tenemos en nuestros corazones por la humanidad en general debería, por supuesto ser expresado, pero entonces uno también tiene que amar algunos seres humanos en especial. De otro modo no se está expresando el amor en su potencial más completo. El amor siempre necesita un objeto - las personas con quienes está en contacto, sus amigos, sus vecinos, las personas que se visitan al viajar a los pueblos, etc. Por eso, en la enseñanza, además de este acto de proclamación, tomamos un paso más para expresar nuestro amor a los individuos, con una cara y un nombre, un corazón y una personalidad, y les enseñamos la Fe.

En este segundo aspecto de la enseñanza estamos tratando una dinámica espiritual muy diferente a las dinámicas de la proclamación. Aquí tenemos una situación en la cual dos corazones humanos tienen que interrelacionarse directamente. Es una ocasión muy especial en la cual un corazón humano que está conectado a Bahá’u’lláh, que reconoce a Bahá’u’lláh, y siente amor por ‎El Él‎, de alguna manera tiene que hacer algo para que otro corazón que no está conectado a Bahá’u’lláh llegue a conectarse a través de un vínculo de amor. ¿Cómo sucede esto? Lo que entiendo de este proceso es que esta persona, este corazón, el primer corazón, inicialmente se conecta con el otro por un vínculo de amor. Entonces una conexión está hecha. A través de esta conexión algo fluye, fluye el amor de Dios, y también fluyen palabras que el maestro pronuncia y la otra persona escucha y trata de entender. Pero éstas no son palabras cualquiera. El maestro no sólo está instruyendo a la otra persona. Solamente cuando las palabras están dirigidas por este amor, únicamente cuando una conexión de amor existe entre los dos corazones, penetrarán las palabras en el corazón de la otra persona. Entonces algo sucede, el segundo corazón es bendecido con el don del reconocimiento y es iluminado con un nuevo entendimiento. Debido a esta conexión un nuevo vínculo nace, un vínculo directo entre el corazón del nuevo creyente y Bahá’u’lláh.

AHORA lo que acabo de describirles es muy diferente de vender cosas a otros, ¿no es cierto? Enseñar, entonces, no es vender productos. No importa qué tan agradable sea el vendedor, qué tan talentoso, qué tanto pueda manejar las verdades de manera que la otra persona diga, “¡Compro!”. Temo que los que piensan así acerca de la enseñanza están verdaderamente equivocados. La enseñanza es un proceso ‎espirial espiritual‎ en el cual los corazones están involucrados, y por lo tanto las cualidades del corazón del maestro son muy importantes. No se trata solamente de las palabras que ‎él él‎ o ella usa sino lo que está realmente en ese corazón. Para clarificar más este punto, pensemos en un ejemplo. Si Ud. va a construir algo, entonces necesita los ingredientes de ese algo. Si va a construir una casa de ladrillo y cemento, entonces necesita ladrillos y cemento y algunos

Paso al Reino de Abhá de la Consejera Isobel Sabri CORAZONES PROFUNDAMENTE ENTRISTECIDOS POR PÉRDIDA DE MUY AMADA Y EXTRAORDINARIA PROMOTORA CAUSA DE DIOS, MIEMBRO CENTRO INTERNACIONAL ENSEÑANZA SRA. ISOBEL SABRI. SUS SERVICIOS EXCELENTES E INFATIGABLES EN PIONERÍA Y ADMINISTRACIÓN POR VARIAS DÉCADAS, PRIMERO EN ISLAS BRITÁNICAS Y LUEGO EN AFRICA, CORONADOS POR INOLVIDABLE Y MUY VALORADA CONTRIBUCIÓN EN CENTRO MUNDIAL DESDE 1983. LA INTEGRIDAD DE SU VIDA EJEMPLAR REFORZÓ PODEROSAMENTE SUS ESFUERZOS INTRÉPIDOS VALEROSOS E INFATIGABLES PARA PROPUGNAR LAS VERDADES Y DEFENDER LOS INTERESES DE LA FE QUE TANTO AMÓ. ORAMOS EN SANTUARIOS SAGRADOS PARA EL CONTINUO PROGRESO DE SU LUMINOSA ALMA EN REINO DE ABHÁ DONDE CON SEGURIDAD LE ESPERA MAGNÍFICA RECOMPENSA. ACONSEJAMOS REALIZAR SERVICIOS CONMEMORATIVOS EN SU HONOR EN CASAS DE ADORACIÓN Y COMUNIDADES POR TODO EL MUNDO BAHÁ’Í. LA CASA UNIVERSAL DE JUSTICIA 18 DE JUNIO DE 1992

[Page 15]Bahá’í children from St. Petersburg, Florida, sing ‘Blessed Is the Spot’ with the help of youth and adults during an Interfaith Music Festival held May 24 in St. Petersburg.

Bahá’ís in St. Petersburg, Florida, take part in Interfaith Music Festival at Unitarian church

Bahá’ís in the St. Petersburg, Florida, area took part May 24 in an Interfaith Music Festival sponsored by the National Conference of Christians and Jews and the Pinellas County Interfaith Committee.

A group of Bahá’í children sang “Blessed Is the Spot” and “We Are Drops of One Ocean,” a Persian Bahá’í chanted a prayer revealed by Bahá’u’lláh, and another believer presented an introduction to the Faith to the audience at the Unitarian Universalist Church in St. Petersburg.

Bahá’ís from four Assemblies helped plan the event, and area Bahá’ís also coordinated a reception that followed.

Also on the program were several Christian choirs including an all-black gospel choir, Jewish cantors, and a Muslim folksinger.

The event was covered by local television news.

Activities

from page 9

MICHIGAN The Bahá’ís of Muskegon have been contacted by several non-Bahá’í organizations to do workshops on consultation; the believers there have a reputation for doing business in a unified manner. A local hospital also hired a Bahá’í as a consultant to help solve problems of disunity. In St. Joseph the friends are developing a curriculum for elementary schools to promote race unity in their district.

NEW MEXICO The Spiritual Assembly of Las Cruces sponsored a poetry reading for race unity on June 16. Twenty-five Bahá’ís and 65 non-Bahá’í attended. The diverse group included blacks, whites and Hispanics. Two seekers stayed after the program for a follow-up fireside.

NEW YORK The Spiritual Assembly of New York City sponsored a city-wide contest called “Racism—Just Undo It,” soliciting creative expressions on race unity. Some 200 entries were submitted from professional artists, children, publishing companies and many others. Information and articles about the contest appeared in 69 newspapers and on 29 radio and 10 television stations. A public exhibit of the artwork is being planned.

OREGON The Bahá’ís of Clackamas County South sponsored a series of race unity events in a local park during the second week of June, including an ice cream social attended by 100-200 non-Bahá’ís, with a fireside in Spanish and English; the signing of a proclamation for race unity Week by the mayor of Canby; and the presentation of the race unity statement to city officials and the police chief. Seven new believers were enrolled during the week. The teaching team CITADEL supported all of the events, and is helping with follow-up deepenings.

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 June 13 conference whose theme was “The Challenge of Unity: Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges.”

WASHINGTON The Bahá’í Club at the University of Washington in Seattle has had two tables at the student union for several months, where the race unity statement and other Bahá’í literature has been given out. The club recently placed a full-page ad on the Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh in the campus newspaper. One professor has become a Bahá’í as a result of the club’s efforts.

Reno acquires Bahá’í Center

Last December, after six years of prayer, planning, research and consultation, the Spiritual Assembly of Reno, Nevada, realized one of its goals for the Six Year Plan by acquiring and establishing the Bahá’í Center of Reno.

Located in the heart of downtown Reno, a few doors from where Miss Helen Griffing, the first Bahá’í pioneer to Nevada during the Seven Year Plan, established her residence, the Center has become a landmark of attention for professional groups and residents in Reno.

Since its opening, visitors from around the country and from such places as Lebanon and Great Britain have stopped in to ask about the Faith, purchase books and gather literature.

Following a Racial Peace Rally held by the city of Reno in the wake of the disturbances in Los Angeles, more than 200 people were given copies of the National Assembly’s statement on race unity as they visited the Bahá’í Center.

The Spiritual Assembly of Reno has planned a number of summer events at the Center.

Expansión

de página 14

otros ingredientes tales como madera y metal, que juntos componen el material del cual se construirá la casa. Si no tiene ese material no puede construir una casa que deba ser hecha de ese material. Si la enseñanza va a establecer un vínculo de amor entre el corazón de la persona y Bahá’u’lláh, entonces aquel quien va a ayudar a que esto suceda, debe tener una gran cantidad de ese amor en el corazón para que la sustancia que compone el vínculo esté presente en abundancia durante el proceso de construir el vínculo. Si aceptar a Bahá’u’lláh involucra el crecimiento de la fe en el corazón del oyente, entonces aquel que está enseñando debe tener fe y una gran cantidad de ella, porque ésta es la “sustancia”, si se quiere, de la cual alguna parte de este vínculo, de este nuevo entendimiento, debe ser creado. Lo mismo se aplica al desprendimiento, pureza, intenciones, sinceridad, veracidad, coraje y un buen número de otras cualidades espirituales. Si aceptamos esta idea podemos fácilmente ver que el resultado de la enseñanza, el grado de la confirmación del nuevo creyente, que necesariamente dependen de la condición de su corazón, también depende de las cualidades del maestro.

ENTONCES no es sorprendente que cuando uno mira el campo de la enseñanza descubre que, si se quiere, hay resultados muy distintos. Uno ve que entre cientos de personas que un maestro ha enseñado hay muchos, muchos creyentes firmes y confirmados; y de cientos de enseñados por otro quedan muy pocos. Este claramente no es un asunto para juzgar o hablar de ello, sino el punto es que tal diferencia existe y es discernible. Algunos maestros ‎tiene tienen‎ una capacidad asombrosa para confirmar almas, y algunos llegan solamente a encender un pequeño fuego, que, por supuesto, después puede volverse más fuerte por la gracia de Bahá’u’lláh y por la profundización que recibe. Es como prenderle fuego a algo: depende de qué tan receptivo sea ese algo, para que fácilmente se encienda. No es igual tener que encender aceite o una piedra, pero las cosas dependen de la intensidad del fuego. Un pequeño fósforo prendido debajo de una piedra tomará una eternidad aún para calentarla. Un pequeño fósforo puede encender aceite muy rápidamente. Pero un fuego intenso puede encender la materia más resistente con el debido tiempo. Entonces es esencial entender que hay un papel muy importante del maestro. La enseñanza no es simplemente un acto de decir, “Mire, lea este libro. Vea por sí mismo”. Si lo hace, puede ser que haya personas quienes verán por sí mismas. Pero otra cosa es entrar en una muy hermosa interacción espiritual, ello es el acto de enseñar, de ayudar a otra alma ‎reconocer a reconocer‎ a Bahá’u’lláh y luego ser confirmada en su fe en Bahá’u’lláh y su amor por Bahá’u’lláh.

BIC representatives take part in UN Conference on Environment in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The Bahá’í International Community (BIC) and representatives of several National Spiritual Assemblies took part in the recent Earth Summit (the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development—UNCED) and the Global Forum, both of which were held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Clearly one of the most actively involved non-governmental organizations (NGOs) at the conference, the BIC organized 10 evenings of cultural events, produced a book of Bahá’í children’s art in cooperation with UNICEF, initiated a peace monument that will remain in Rio as a symbol of the Earth Summit and the ’92 Global Forum, made many contacts with high-level officials and the media, and was chosen as one of 12 NGOs (out of more than 1,400 accredited to the Earth Summit) to present statements to a plenary session of UNCED.

A more detailed report of Bahá’í involvement in the Earth Summit and Global Forum will appear in the next issue of The American Bahá’í.

IN MEMORIAM

Jimmy Aiken Manning, SC Date Unknown	Milton Eagle Feathers Lame Deer, MT Date Unknown	John Leysath North, SC February 1990	Laurel Stackpole Nantucket, MA May 20, 1992
Effia Anderson St. Matthews, SC Date Unknown	Katie Frank Manning, SC Date Unknown	Mary Lou Martin St. Charles, IL April 1992	Howard Wertheimer Northampton, MA 1991
Gerald M. Arrie Bluejacket, OK January 23, 1992	Woodrow Genwright Mullins, SC Date Unknown	Gladys Newman Bishopville, SC Date Unknown	May Bell Williams Mayesville, SC Date Unknown
William Ballard St. Matthews, SC Date Unknown	Genell Grimsley Lake City, SC March 21, 1992	James Quattlebum St. Matthews, SC Date Unknown	Carrie Witherspoon Manning, SC Date Unknown
Annie L. Davis Norway, SC 1991	Barbara Jackson Billings, MT Date Unknown	Marion Ravenell St. Matthews, SC Date Unknown	Patricia Ann Williams Norway, SC 1984
Asberry Dozier Manning, SC Date Unknown	Dr. Leon Jones Silver Spring, MD April 8, 1992	Isaac Robinson North, SC January 1992	Wilbur Williams Norway, SC 1985
Frankie Dorsey Atlanta, GA May 29, 1992	Ervin Kinley Jr. Elloree, SC Date Unknown	Lavina Smalls Bishopville, SC Date Unknown	George Worley Jr. Bishopville, SC Date Unknown
Mary Edmundson El Mirage, AZ Date Unknown	Saraan LeVell Pomona, CA May 28, 1992	Flora Stackhouse Hamer, SC Date Unknown	Beverly Y. Yates The Dalles, OR Date Unknown
Luther Edwards Durham, NC March 24, 1992

[Page 16]Bahá’í and non-Bahá’í youth from Wisconsin, Illinois and Minnesota gathered for a weekend conference March 27-29 at the Central Wisconsin Environmental Station in Amherst Junction. The theme of the sessions, which were sponsored by the Wisconsin Bahá’í School Committee, was "Youth Can Move the World." As a result, one youth traveling teaching team was formed.

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, IL. 60091, as soon as you know what your new address will be.

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

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.

B. NEW RESIDENCE ADDRESS: Street address Apartment # (If applicable) City State Zip code

C. NEW MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box or Other mailing address Apartment # (If applicable) City State Zip code

D. NEW COMMUNITY: Name of new Bahá’í Community Moving date

E. HOME TELEPHONE NUMBER: 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 ID number(s) listed above. __ 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, ID. number and address above.

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

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

AUGUST

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, 202-708-1005, 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).

29: Day of Unity and Unity Walk, Burnham Park, Chicago. Sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Chicago with the City of Chicago Commission on Human Relations, the Human Relations Foundation of Chicago, and the Chicago Urban League. Day of Unity events begin at noon, with the Walk for Unity at 4 p.m. and a picnic in the park at 6 p.m. Registration is free. For information, phone Cher Gupta, 312-456-7745.

SEPTEMBER

4-7: Pioneering Institute, Louis G. Gregory Bahá’í Institute, Hemingway, South Carolina. For information, phone 708-869-9039.

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.

14-20: Joint Conference on Social and Economic Development (OSED) and Agriculture and Rural Development (ISARD), Landegg Academy, Wienacht, Switzerland. For information, telephone 41-71-91 91 31; fax 41-71-91 43 01.

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

26: Sixth annual "Stepping Stones to Peace" Pasadena (California) Civic Center. Theme: "Mankind Is One Family...The Stepping Stone to Peace." Pre-registration is required, as space is limited to 500 children and youth; registration fee is $10. For a registration form, phone 818-797-6216.

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.

Baytown Bahá’ís step up teaching/proclamation

Bahá’ís in Baytown, Texas, have accelerated their teaching/proclamation efforts recently with firesides, direct teaching, and the presentation to residents, including the mayor, of more than 500 pamphlets including "The Promise of World Peace," "The Vision of Race Unity," and the statement, "Bahá’u’lláh."

An article about Bahá’í efforts to achieve world peace and a photograph of the presentation to Mayor Emmet Hutto appeared in the Baytown Sun.

The local believers were supported by Auxiliary Board member Robert Ramirez and two members of the teaching campaign, "Project Blaze."

The effort bore its first visible fruit in April when two seekers declared their belief in Bahá’u’lláh, raising to seven the number of adult Bahá’ís in Baytown.

All Bahá’ís must secure permission from the Universal House of Justice before traveling to Israel, whether for business, visiting relatives, a three-day stay in Haifa, or any other reason.

The address of the Universal House of Justice is P.O. Box 155, Haifa 31 001, Israel.