The American Bahá’í/Volume 23/Issue 15/Text

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[Page 1]

Concert at Carnegie Hall to salute second World Congress

On Sunday, November 22, at 2:30 p.m., a gala concert at New York's historic Carnegie Hall will present a musical salute to the second Bahá’í World Congress which opens the following day. The theme of the concert is "Celebrating the Bahá’í Vision of World Peace." Among the world-renowned artists who are contributing their services to this unique event are pianists Eugene Istomin and Byron Janis, soprano Benita Valente, mezzo-soprano Tatiana Troyanos, and baritone Norman Bailey. The Cleveland Quartet, one of America's foremost chamber music ensembles, will perform Mozart's quintet for clarinet and strings with David Schifrin as guest soloist.

Special features will include the appearance of 20-year-old Bahá’í violinist Vali Phillips, and a first performance by members of the World Congress Choir of music composed to Bahá’í texts.

Both Mr. Istomin and Mr. Janis have toured internationally for more than a quarter of a century and have recorded with virtually all of the foremost conductors of the day.

Miss Troyanos and Miss Valente are favorite divas at the Metropolitan Opera in New York and have sung with many of the leading opera companies overseas. During the recent concert season at the Met, Miss Troyanos and Miss Valente were heard in productions of Mozart's "The Marriage of Figaro" and Richard Wagner's "Tannhauser."

Mr. Bailey, one of our best-known Bahá’í performing artists, has sung at the Met, with the New York City Opera, and the English National Opera with whom he recorded the first English-language version of Wagner's "Ring" cycle.

Vali Phillips is concertmaster with the Eastman School of Music Symphony in Rochester, New York, and has won many competitions for violin including those of the New England Conservatory and the Boston Symphony Young Artists.

The World Congress concert will give Bahá’ís attending the Congress an opportunity to visit Carnegie Hall during its centennial celebration season for which it was recently restored to its original 19th century splendor.

Tickets, priced from $12 to $45, may be purchased in advance if payment in full is received no later than November 1. For payments received by that date, your tickets will be mailed to you. Checks should be made payable to Bahá’í Classical Concert. The Bahá’í World Congress Office CANNOT ACCEPT CASH, and credit card purchases are not possible through that office.

If you prefer to charge your tickets, you may do so by phoning the Carnegie Hall ticket office, 212-247-7800. This is a proclamation event for which a certain number of seats is available. Tickets will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Office of Public Information reminds friends that media should not be invited to Feast

The Office of Public Information would like to remind the friends that local Spiritual Assemblies and individual Bahá’ís should not invite reporters or other non-Bahá’ís to the Nineteen Day Feast or to District Convention.

Publicity that might be generated by a journalist attending the Feast is not sufficient justification to compromise the cardinal principle of the institution of the Feast; when a non-Bahá’í is present at the meeting, it is no longer the Nineteen Day Feast.

If a journalist asks permission to attend the Feast, the PI representative should explain the nature of the Feast, that it is restricted to Bahá’ís only. The local Assembly or Group could arrange a special meeting to which the journalist could be invited.

TAYLOR-RUBINO: A personal look at Michigan's successful teaching project

"If a small number of people gather lovingly together, with absolute purity and sanctity, with their hearts free of the world, experiencing the emotions of the Kingdom and the powerful magnetic forces of the Divine, and being at one in their happy fellowship, that gathering will exert its influence over all the earth. The nature of that band of people, the words they speak, the deeds they do, will unleash the bestowals of Heaven, and provide a foretaste of eternal bliss. The hosts of the Company on high will defend them, and the angels of the Abhá Paradise, in continuous succession, will come down to their aid." (Selections From the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p.81)

The Taylor-Rubino Teaching Institute, operating in and around Ludington, Michigan, has seen electrifying results since its inception a year ago, with a total of 50 declarations in several communities, and the establishment of firesides and deepening programs attended by hundreds of people interested in the Faith.

THE PACE of victories has accelerated in the past several weeks, highlighted by the participation of project members in a Race Unity Festival sponsored by local Bahá’í communities, during which the Name of Bahá’u’lláh was proclaimed in the press and before 50,000 spectators; and a surge in declarations, leading to plans for the institute to help elect in the near future Ludington's first local Spiritual Assembly.

The institute, sponsored by the local Assembly of White River Township, was formed in the summer of 1991 when about 50 youth decided to dedicate themselves to teaching. They named their project after Molly Rubino of Detroit and Louise Taylor of Montague, two devoted Bahá’ís who had recently passed away. Since then youth from across the state of Michigan and, more recently, from across the country, have contributed as full- and part-time teachers.

Through study, prayer, consultation and action, the youth who take part regularly are developing into experienced Bahá’í teachers and community builders, organizing and helping in various community service projects and leading firesides and Bahá’í children's classes attended by as many as 100 people at a time.

Pictured are some of the non-Bahá’í children who attend Bahá’í children's classes at the Bahá’í Center in Muskegon, Michigan. The classes are given by members of the Taylor-Rubino teaching project.

Institute members have made a profound impression on residents in every community they have visited. Local citizens have lavished praise on the Bahá’ís for their spirit of love and fellowship; some community leaders have even helped them plan their teaching activities so as to receive maximum attention.

"It is pure joy to watch them in action," says Nancy Watters, a member of the Taylor-Rubino Project Council, which coordinates and oversees the activities of the institute. "Words are inadequate to convey the tangible spiritual power that has been generated here."

Carole Dickson, another adult coordinator of the institute, has been closely involved with the project since its inception. She recently shared her perceptions on its successes with the editors of The American Bahá’í. The following are extracts from her letter:

"Actually, the only quality we really possessed when we first got a group together was that we yearned to teach and serve. From that point on, Bahá’u’lláh made the prayer become real. By responding to the transforming power of His Word we became a united group, our hearts increasingly attracted to Him and to each other. The successes we are experiencing as a result are proof of His aid and assistance.

"THE TAYLOR-Rubino Project is a working example of what can happen when the process is begun of allowing Bahá’u’lláh to direct the activities of those who wish to spread His Message together. Another devoted and experienced Bahá’í once described the process as she has seen it work. It corresponds well to our experiences and goes like this:

"(1) A small group of Bahá’ís immerse themselves in the Creative Word through individual and collective deepening." [Page 2]

Traveling teaching opportunities during the Holy Year

The Bahá’í World Congress is creating unique opportunities for communities to receive traveling teachers. Many Bahá’ís from all over the world have contacted the National Teaching Office offering to help the teaching efforts of communities they travel through while driving to and from the World Congress.

THE PRIMARY role of traveling teachers is explained on behalf of Shoghi Effendi in a letter dated September 1, 1933:

"What visiting teachers are supposed to do is to give the final touch to the work that has been done, to consolidate rather than supplement individual efforts and thereby direct them in a constructive and suitable channel. Their task is to encourage and inspire the individual believers, and to broaden and deepen their vision of the task that is to be done. And this, not by virtue of any inherent spiritual right, but in the spirit of simple and whole-hearted cooperation."

A network of regional traveling teaching coordinators is in place to help develop the itineraries of traveling teachers, matching the talents of traveling teachers with the needs of the communities asking for help.

If a traveling teaching coordinator knows that a traveling teacher will be passing through a region and can stop in a particular community, the coordinator will call that Assembly or Bahá’í Group to ascertain whether the traveling teacher's services are needed and to help make arrangements for the visit.

Traveling teachers should also give sufficient notice to the regional coordinator so that communities can be contacted and effective plans for their visits be made. Usually, three to four weeks notice is adequate, but due to the large numbers of people who will be traveling around the time of the World Congress, those who wish to visit communities in November or December 1992 should contact the traveling teaching coordinator immediately.

Occasionally, traveling teachers pass through an area and call the local Bahá’ís without having set up a visit through the traveling teaching coordinator. The Bahá’í community is not obligated to host or to sponsor the activities of a traveling teacher if arrangements have not been made in advance, but it may choose to do so.

If a community is contacted directly by a traveling teacher, it is advisable that the Assembly call the National Traveling Teaching Coordinator to verify that person's status as a Bahá’í.

Bahá’í communities that would like to request the visit of a traveling teacher may contact the traveling teaching coordinator in their region, as listed below. Those interested in traveling to teach may contact the appropriate regional coordinator. Those who are interested in traveling through more than one region should contact the National Traveling Teaching Coordinator, who will work with the regional coordinators in setting up an itinerary.

National Traveling Teaching Coordinator: Laura Cessna, National Teaching Office, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091; phone 708-869-9039, ext. 232.

Region 1 (ID, MT, OR, WA, WY): Bob and Brooke Record, Aberdeen, WA 98520; phone 206-533-4011.

Region 2 (CA, NV): Sandra Huit, Fair Oaks, CA 95628; phone 916-961-0807.

Region 3 (AZ, CO, NM, UT): Terri Agahi, Phoenix, AZ 85023; phone 602-863-1919.

Region 4 (IA, KS, MN, MO, NE, ND, SD): No Regional Coordinator. Contact the National Coordinator.

Region 5, #1 (AR, OK): Will Sutter, Oklahoma City, OK 73104; phone 405-235-2802.

Region 5, #2 (LA, MS, TX): Riaz Haghpajuh, Addison, TX 75244; phone 214-243-1540.

Region 6 (IL, IN, KY, MI, OH, WI): Rose Wendel, Dayton, OH 45459; phone 513-433-1120.

Region 7 (CT, ME, MA, NH, NJ, NY, PA, RI, VT): Nancy Duggan, Malden, MA 02148; phone 617-324-7915.

Region 8 (DC, DE, MD, NC, SC, TN, VA, WV): Bruce Barker, Mt. Airy, NC 27030; phone 919-789-7878.

Region 9 (AL, FL, GA): Elizabeth Anderson, P.O. Box 131, Cedar Key, FL 32625; phone 904-543-6530.

For those traveling teachers passing through Illinois who would like to stop at the Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette, there will be pre-Congress and post-Congress activities in which they may take part. Information about hotels and activities may be obtained through the Bahá’í House of Worship Activities Office (phone 708-869-9039).

HOSPITALITY may be offered by a community; however, believers should understand that they are expected to pay their own expenses including transportation, food, and accommodations.

Stories Wanted: Race Unity Activities

The National Teaching Office wants information on various efforts in which Bahá’ís are engaged to promote race unity. We would like to be able to share more news and information in upcoming issues of The American Bahá’í and create a network that will enable the friends throughout the country to replicate successful initiatives. Please send a summary of your efforts with photographs, when available, to: National Teaching Office, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. Phone 708-869-9039; Fax 708-869-0247.

Monetary Fund seeks applicants for its Economist Program

Applications for the International Monetary Fund's (IMF) Economist Program should be in by November for those who wish to be considered for the April selection. Applicants must obtain an application form from the IMF.

The Economist Program is the best way for young economists to enter IMF's professional staff. It's also a good way to get a foot in the door to economist jobs with other international public and private agencies. (Excerpt from "International Employment Hotline.")

For more information, 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.)

Some guidelines for following through on proclamation

(The following article is excerpted from The DirectLine, June/July 1992)

To proclaim the Faith is to introduce it to the public; it is to make the nature and purpose of the Bahá’í Faith widely known. Proclamation takes various forms, such as engaging in newsworthy activities, presenting The Vision of Race Unity to prominent persons, distributing flyers and invitations to Bahá’í events, marching with a banner or float in parades, or sponsoring panel discussions on important social issues. It is an aspect of teaching that, in general, has been done very well in the United States. Proclamation has assisted the Faith to emerge from obscurity and has helped us gain many friends....

BEYOND helping the Cause to become well known, proclamation has another function. It is a means through which receptive souls can be found and attracted to the Faith. This is an important step in the process of teaching, which involves teaching ourselves, finding and attrracting receptive souls, delivering the Message of Bahá’u’lláh with wisdom, nurturing souls to unqualified acceptance of Bahá’u’lláh, and assisting them to become steadfast Bahá’ís.

If the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh is to grow in number as a result of our proclamation activities, we have to find those individuals, from among the many people who attend our events or respond to our publicity, who are interested in learning more about the Faith. To be able to evaluate their level of interest, we must interact with them. We cannot always afford to wait for them to come to us to ask questions, because unless they know who we are and unless they are outgoing enough to come to us, we may not know that they are receptive.

Even so, there are ways that we can make it easier for individuals to find us, if they are so inclined. Obviously, if we place an advertisement about the Faith in a newspaper we should include an address and phone number. If we are constantly aware of the need to make ourselves accessible, we can come up with other creative ways to identify ourselves as well. The Bahá’ís in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, for example, all wore the same kind of T-shirt when they participated in their Race Unity Day picnic and parade, so that people with questions would know whom to approach.

Of course, we should be careful not to overwhelm receptive souls who are not bold enough to approach us. Yet we need not withdraw from them, either. Many other communities have conceived of creative ways to gain and maintain contact with receptive individuals without being "pushy."

In Omaha, Nebraska, a sign-up sheet was circulated at a picnic following their third annual Race Unity Day parade for a newsletter produced to inform interested persons of upcoming Bahá’í activities. In Reno, Nevada, a guest book was set out during an "open house" at the Bahá’í Center, and those who signed it are being sent invitations to upcoming events. In addition, Bahá’ís have made friends with some of the people who attended this event and have invited them to dinner.

A strategy should be in place to follow up on our proclamation efforts and bring receptive souls closer to the Faith. This strategy should be developed as a part of the event itself, in the context of the community's local teaching plan.

It is important that no proclamation activity occur in and of itself, isolated from other teaching activities in the community. A race unity walk, for example, might be preceded by a plan to distribute The Vision of Race Unity and the statement on Bahá’u’lláh to prominent individuals, a press release to local newspapers, and an effort to distribute flyers and invitations to organizations and acquaintances, while the walk might be followed by a panel discussion on race unity and a series of firesides to which interested persons might be invited.

EVEN THOUGH a teaching program for the community may be in place, it is important that individuals further support community efforts by taking it upon themselve to develop personal friendships with those who show interest in the Faith. As we continue to interact with those who are found to be receptive, we will have opportunities to talk about Bahá’u’lláh and His Message in a way that is appropriate for these individuals, further discuss the Faith, and continue to nurture them until they are firm believers in the Cause.

The proper response to Covenant-breakers

What should Bahá’ís do if Covenant-breakers or their supporters appear at the sites of the World Congress? The most effective way of dealing with them is simply to ignore them.

The friends should remain aloof and serene. Under no circumstances should Bahá’ís attempt to engage these people in conversations or allow themselves to be goaded into any encounters with Covenant-breakers. [Page 3]

ADRIANOPLE

In exile, Bahá’u’lláh reveals power of the Covenant

BY KEN BOWERS

During the years of Bahá’u’lláh’s exile to Adrianople there occurred a crisis of the first magnitude—the open rebellion of Mírzá Yahyá, who made public his claim that he, not Bahá’u’lláh, was the Promised One foretold by the Báb. Mírzá Yahyá’s pretense to prophetic office marked the consummation of years of intrigues designed to consolidate his own leadership of the Bábí community and to simultaneously undermine Bahá’u’lláh’s authority.

MÍRZÁ Yahyá was Bahá’u’lláh’s half-brother, and had been chosen by the Báb to act as head of the Bábí community after His own martyrdom, pending the appearance of “He Whom God will make manifest”; in other words, the Promised One. But he proved unequal to such a great honor.

Mírzá Yahyá never made an effort to lead or defend the Bábí community openly. He was afraid that he might suffer the same fate as thousands of the Báb’s illustrious followers who had already given their lives for the Cause. Rather, he lived in seclusion or in hiding, often in disguise. Usually only a few of the believers even knew his whereabouts; yet in spite of his supposed leadership he occasionally went so far as to threaten with excommunication any Bábí who divulged such information.

By contrast, Bahá’u’lláh was well known as a follower of the Báb. In Iran and in Iraq He proved Himself a tireless and fearless champion of the Cause of God. Moreover, so great were His knowledge and spiritual qualities that He, and He alone, was able to preserve the unity and integrity of the Faith throughout the turbulent years leading up to His own Declaration. By the time He revealed His true Station, He was already considered by the vast majority of believers—and by non-believers as well—to be the leader of the Bábí Faith.

Bahá’u’lláh’s steadily growing ascendancy, and the signs of Divine power and might that He continually manifested, did not move Mírzá Yahyá to submit to His authority. Instead his heart burned with envy and hatred, for, although a complete coward, he craved glory and honor.

At last, after Bahá’u’lláh’s Declaration and removal to Adrianople, when it became clear that the entire Bábí community was rallying around His standard, Mírzá Yahyá’s insatiable lust for leadership drove him to the extreme infamy. He issued a “counter-declaration” of his own, thereby throwing the believers into consternation.

THE REASON that Mírzá Yahyá’s claims were so confusing to the believers was that he was held in high esteem by most of them. As the nominee of the Báb he enjoyed the deference and respect of the friends, the vast majority of whom had no inkling as to his true nature. This is because Bahá’u’lláh Himself had consistently chosen to conceal His half-brother’s misdeeds from the other believers, never openly censuring him for his many wrong-doings. The references in His Writings to mischief-makers within the ranks of the community had always been indirect.

Therefore, when the believers were faced with opposing claims from individuals both of whom were considered to be upright and devoted followers of the Báb, the potential for a breach in the unity of the Cause seemed very real.

It was at this point that the Blessed Beauty, Who had hoped for years that Mírzá Yahyá might mend his ways, was forced to remove the veil that until then had hidden his many crimes. Bahá’u’lláh revealed Tablet after Tablet that exposed his half-brother, and his small band of followers, for what they were.

At the same time, in mighty and exalted language, Bahá’u’lláh made unmistakably clear that God would tolerate no attempt to usurp the authority of the Cause, which would remain forever one and indivisible.

THE TABLET OF SALMÁN

One of the most significant of Bahá’u’lláh’s Tablets revealed during this period was the Lawh-i-Salmán (Tablet of Salmán), written in honor of Shaykh Salmán, the intrepid messenger who for more than four decades helped to keep the lines of communication open between Bahá’u’lláh and His followers in Iran. In the Lawh-i-Salmán the Blessed Beauty touched on many profound subjects, all of which shed light on His Station and on the power of the Covenant to hold the Bahá’í community intact.

Adib Taherzadeh, in The Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh, Vol. 2, gives a masterful explanation of this important Tablet, much of which has not yet been translated into English. He calls particular attention to a passage wherein Bahá’u’lláh explains one of the hidden meanings of the Islamic phrase, “There is no God but God,” regarded by Muslims as their primary article of faith.

Bahá’u’lláh revealed that the “letter of negation” (the word “no”), because it preceded that of affirmation, as it does in the original Arabic, meant that God had ordained that the forces of negation, i.e., the violators of the Covenant, should dominate over the faithful. The creative power of this one phrase was so far-reaching that the entire course of history had been affected, and the forces of evil had indeed achieved ascendancy. The Word of God, then, far from having been compromised, had actually been fulfilled!

THE BLESSED BEAUTY went on to state that in this Dispensation God had entirely removed the letter of negation. Thus, the phrase “There is no God but God” was now changed to “He is God.”

Bahá’u’lláh made clear that the effect of this would be to ensure that no one could ever again violate the authority and integrity of the Cause. The Bahá’í Dispensation was from the beginning fundamentally different, and was destined through this new, God-given capacity to achieve what no previous Revelation had done.

How marvelous it is to realize that Bahá’u’lláh, with one stroke of His Pen, completely subverted a phenomenon that had persisted since the beginning of history! In every previous Dispensation the “letters of negation” had been victorious over the faithful, causing divisions and schisms within the ranks of the followers of the Prophets. Now, however, the situation was reversed. God had, through the invincible power of His Word, entirely precluded the possibility of such rifts.

In meditating upon such passages Bahá’ís become aware of the true nature of the revealed Word of God. The utterances of the Manifestations of God have a power far beyond mere words, placing them in a category infinitely higher than the sayings of other men, however wise or pious. For Their Words do not simply point out the course of human development—they determine it.

Consequently, the Covenant of God is not to be seen as a mere agreement or contract. It is a force of inconceivable potency, so great that everything in the universe is subservient to it. As ‘Abdu’l-Bahá stated, “...all the forces in the universe in the last analysis serve the Covenant.”

In many of His Writings the Blessed Beauty spoke about the creative power of the Word of God. Following is a well-known passage from Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh:

“Every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God is endowed with such potency as can instill life into every human frame, if ye be of them that comprehend this truth. All the wondrous works ye behold in this world have been manifested through the operation of His supreme and most exalted Will, His wondrous and inflexible Purpose.

“THROUGH the mere revelation of the word ‘Fashioner,’ issuing forth from His lips and proclaiming His attribute to mankind, such power is released as can generate, through successive ages, all the manifold arts which the hands of man can produce. This, verily, is a certain truth. No sooner is this resplendent word uttered, than its animating energies, stirring within all created things, give birth to the means and instruments whereby such arts can be produced and perfected. All the wondrous achievements ye now witness are the direct consequences of the revelation of this Name.

“...Know thou that the revelation of every other Name is accompanied by a similar manifestation of Divine power. Every single letter proceeding out of the mouth of God is indeed a mother letter, and every word uttered by Him Who is the Well-Spring of Divine Revelation is a mother word, and His Tablet a Mother Tablet. Well is it with them that apprehend this truth.”

REGARDING His own Revelation, Bahá’u’lláh revealed such words as these:

“The world’s equilibrium hath been upset through the vibrating influence of this Most Great Order. Mankind’s ordered life hath been revolutionized through the agency of this unique, this wondrous System, the like of which mortal eyes have never witnessed.”

These passages, in which the Supreme Pen discloses the true nature of the Cause, totally transform our understanding of the effect of the Word of God in the world of creation. What of the Revealers of the Word Themselves?

The Báb, speaking with the voice of God, revealed the following:

“In truth I have created Thee through Thyself, then at My own behest I have fashioned all things through the creative power of Thy word....”

And from Bahá’u’lláh we have these remarkable lines concerning the Manifestations of God:

“Nay, all else besides these Manifestations, live by the operation of Their Will, and move and have their being through the outpourings of Their grace.”

These passages imply that the very nature of a Messenger of God is different from that of other men, a concept explicitly confirmed elsewhere in Bahá’u’lláh’s Writings. And to think that it was such an exalted and mighty Being as this whom Mírzá Yahyá dared to oppose!

The claims that Bahá’u’lláh makes concerning the Word of God necessarily lead one to wonder why, if Divine Revelation is truly so powerful, God never provided for the preservation of His Cause from the “letters of negation” in past Dispensations.

AS MR. TAHERZADEH points out in the same chapter in which he discusses the Lawh-i-Salmán, the answer is that the Divine Messengers have always had the power to institute a Covenant similar to Bahá’u’lláh’s. That They chose not to do so was through no limitation on Their part; rather, it was because of the incapacity of the people of past ages to appreciate the meaning of such an institution.

The Prophets of bygone eras knew perfectly well that the time had not come to endow humanity with such a blessing, which is also a great spiritual responsibility; yet They all alluded to such a time in their prophecies. Abundant references can be found in the Scriptures of the past in support of this idea. Perhaps the best known is this statement of Christ’s:

“I have yet many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth...” (John 16:12-13)

In revealing the Lawh-i-Salmán it was important that Bahá’u’lláh stress the power of God to preserve the unity of the Faith in this new Dispensation, especially at a time when the schemes of Mírzá Yahyá had reached their heights. Up to that point the Cause had suffered many calamities due to hostile forces from without, but had not yet been put in such imminent danger from within. Time had yet to tell the true potency of the Covenant.

Moreover, it is probably more than coincidental that Shaykh Salmán was honored as the recipient of the Tablet. Through his efforts the believers were able to maintain a living connection with the Manifestation of God, a connection which Mírzá Yahyá, in his fear and pride, was never able to sever. [Page 4]

Bahá’í NGO represented at UN Public Information conference

Bahá’í representatives of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) including the National Spiritual Assembly were among a record 1,300 representatives of NGOs who gathered September 9 for the annual United Nations conference sponsored by the UN Department of Public Information.

The theme, "Regional Conflicts: Threats to World Peace and Progress," inspired the involvement and concern of attendees from 58 countries.

UN Secretary-General Boutros Boutros-Ghali, after asking for a moment of silence in memory of two French members of the UN peacekeeping force killed in the line of duty in Bosnia-Herzegovina, delivered the keynote address, saying that the mounting responsibilities of the UN cannot successfully be undertaken without the continued support and participation of NGOs.

Former President Jimmy Carter, in a video taped address, urged his audience to focus on what unites us, said that regional solutions imply regional responsibility, and emphasized that "we cannot continue to look the other way when developing nations request our help."

Dr. Soheil Bushrui, director of the Bahá’í Chair for World Peace at the University of Maryland, spoke at a panel discussion on "Conflict: Interreligious Approach."

Shirley Lee, representative to the UN for the National Spiritual Assembly, moderated a luncheon session at which a number of NGO representatives presented a wide array of projects and initiatives designed to contribute to the resolution of conflicts and the amelioration of suffering around the world.

The conference provided an opportunity for NGOs and other participants to enhance their knowledge of the issues involved, share their concerns and expertise, formulate strategies for action, and support the work of the UN in resolving conflicts, maintaining world peace, and furthering social and economic development.

BAHÁ’Í YOUTH SERVICE CORPS TRAINING

A Training Institute is being planned for January 5-10, 1993, at the Bosch Bahá’í School. All youth, who live on the west coast and in the western states, please note, THIS IS THE ONLY TRAINING THAT WILL BE HELD IN YOUR REGION THIS HOLY YEAR AND UNTIL JANUARY 1994. Remember, you must take part in a Training Institute before you leave for your post. If you are interested in attending, contact the Office of Pioneering at the Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 708-869-9039.

State Department's Foreign Service Board to give annual written examination on Saturday, November 7

The U.S. State Department's Foreign Service Board of Examiners, which administers the annual Foreign Service written examination, has announced that this year's exam will be given on Saturday, November 7.

Registration deadlines to take this year's exam are October 2 for those who wish to take it in the U. S. and September 11 for those who wish to take it at an overseas location. The exam takes half a day. Application packets may be obtained from the Department of State, Recruitment Division, P.O. Box 12226, Arlington, VA 22219, or from most federal employment offices around the country.

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

6 YEAR PLAN U.S. PIONEERING GOALS

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

Total for Africa: Goals Assigned: 22 | Open Goals: 22

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

Total for Americas: Goals Assigned: 45 | Open Goals: 38

• • ASIA**
• (E) India
• (E) Malaysia (To help develop public relations experts)
• (E) Nepal
• (M) Taiwan (Chinese Background)

Total for Asia: Goals Assigned: 6 | Open Goals: 6

• • AUSTRALASIA**
• (E) Marshall Islands (To help with administration)

Total for Australasia: Goals Assigned: 2 | Open Goals: 2

• • EUROPE**
• (P) Portugal (Couples for goal areas outside greater Lisbon, preferably Portuguese or Spanish-speaking)

Total for Europe: Goals Assigned: 2 | Open Goals: 0

• • Summary Statistics**
• Total goals assigned: 77
• Total goals filled: 68
• Pioneers to goal countries: 22
• Pioneers to non-goals: 259
• Pioneers filling goals for other countries: 18
• Total Pioneers sent: 757

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

SHORT-TERM PIONEER GOALS

• • AFRICA**
• Ciskei: 24 Goals (Months), 7 Completed
• Guinea-Bissau: 12 Goals, 3 Completed
• Liberia: 12 Goals, 0 Completed
• Nigeria: 12 Goals, 17 Completed
• Tanzania: 36 Goals, 24 Completed
• Uganda: 24 Goals, 0 Completed
• Zambia: 24 Goals, 52 Completed
• **Totals: 144 Goals, 103 Completed**

• • AMERICAS**
• Argentina: 24 Goals, 0 Completed
• Bahamas: 12 Goals, 19 Completed
• Barbados: 12 Goals, 10 Completed
• Brazil: 24 Goals, 21 Completed
• British V.I.: 12 Goals, 14 Completed
• Colombia: 24 Goals, 0 Completed
• Dominica: 12 Goals, 0 Completed
• Ecuador: 12 Goals, 18 Completed
• Guyana: 24 Goals, 46 Completed
• Honduras: 24 Goals, 26 Completed
• Jamaica: 24 Goals, 29 Completed
• Leeward Islands: 12 Goals, 49 Completed
• Martinique: 12 Goals, 0 Completed
• Mexico: 36 Goals, 80 Completed
• Nicaragua: 24 Goals, 2 Completed
• Panama: 36 Goals, 27 Completed
• Paraguay: 24 Goals, 0 Completed
• Puerto Rico: 12 Goals, 3 Completed
• Uruguay: 24 Goals, 7 Completed
• Venezuela: 12 Goals, 22 Completed
• **Totals: 396 Goals, 373 Completed**

• • ASIA**
• India: 24 Goals, 32 Completed
• Japan: 24 Goals, 24 Completed
• Pakistan: 12 Goals, 0 Completed
• Taiwan: 36 Goals, 30 Completed
• **Totals: 96 Goals, 86 Completed**

• • AUSTRALASIA**
• Mariana Islands: 24 Goals, 0 Completed
• Marshall Islands: 12 Goals, 6 Completed
• W. Caroline Islands: 12 Goals, 13 Completed
• **Totals: 48 Goals, 19 Completed**

• • EUROPE**
• Portugal: 24 Goals, 4 Completed

ONGOING TRAVELING TEACHING OPPORTUNITIES

AUSTRALIA; ALBANIA; BAHAMAS; BANGLADESH; BELIZE; BULGARIA; BURKINA FASO; CAMBODIA; CHINA; CISKEI; COLOMBIA; COOK ISLANDS; COSTA RICA; DOMINICAN REPUBLIC; EAST GERMANY; EQUATORIAL GUINEA; FIJI; FRENCH POLYNESIA; GAMBIA; GERMANY; GUATEMALA; GUADELOUPE; GUINEA BISSAU; GUYANA; HAITI; HONG KONG; HUNGARY; ICELAND; INDIA; IRELAND; ITALY; MALAYSIA; MALTA; MOZAMBIQUE; NEPAL; NEW CALEDONIA; PAKISTAN; PANAMA; PHILIPPINES; PORTUGAL; PUERTO RICO; ST. VINCENT & THE GRENADINES; SAMOA; SIBERIA; SIERRA LEONE; SWEDEN; TAIWAN; THAILAND; TONGA; TRANSKEI; TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO; TUVALU; UGANDA; UNITED KINGDOM; VANUATU; WEST LEEWARD ISLANDS; YUGOSLAVIA; ZAMBIA. [Page 5]

Prerequisites of success in teaching: a study guide

INTRODUCTION

In The Advent of Divine Justice, Shoghi Effendi states that certain actions are necessary if we are to be successful in teaching the Faith to others. The foundation of this success lies in the deepening of each Bahá’í.

The Guardian states that Bahá’ís must be "thoroughly familiar" with the history and teachings of the Faith and outlines steps that will help Bahá’ís achieve this "familiarity."

The following guide is intended to assist the believers in their quest to understand and follow the Guardian's exhortation. Although a full text of the passage is included, only the second sentence is taken apart and discussed. It is in this sentence that the Guardian describes the actions which must be taken in the process of deepening.

For each facet of deepening, the action is defined, supplementary references from the Writings are given, and questions regarding the individual's response to the suggested action are asked.

TEXT

"Those who participate in such a [teaching] campaign, whether in an organizing capacity, or as workers to whose care the execution of the task itself has been committed, must, as an essential preliminary to the discharge of their duties, thoroughly familiarize themselves with the various aspects of the history and teachings of their Faith. In their efforts to achieve this purpose they must study for themselves, conscientiously and painstakingly, the literature of their Faith, delve into its teachings, assimilate its laws and principles, ponder its admonitions, tenets and purposes, commit to memory certain of its exhortations and prayers, master the essentials of its administration, and keep abreast of its current affairs and latest developments.

"They must strive to obtain, from sources that are authoritative and unbiased, a sound knowledge of the history and tenets of Islam—the source and background of their Faith and approach reverently and with a mind purged from preconceived ideas the study of the Qur’án which, apart from the sacred scriptures of the Bábí and Bahá’í Revelations, constitutes the only Book which can be regarded as an absolutely authenticated Repository of the Word of God. They must devote special attention to the investigation of those institutions and circumstances that are directly connected with the origin and birth of their Faith, with the station claimed by its Forerunner, and with the laws revealed by its Author.

"Having acquired, in their essentials, these prerequisites of success in the teaching field, they must, whenever they contemplate undertaking any specific mission..., endeavor, whenever feasible, to acquire a certain proficiency in the languages spoken by the inhabitants of those countries, and a knowledge of their customs, habits, and outlook." (The Advent of Divine Justice, p. 49)

OUTLINE OF ELEMENTS

In this text, the Guardian outlines the following elements of deepening as "prequisites of success in the teaching field":

• studying the literature of the Faith,
• delving into its teachings,
• assimilating its laws and principles,
• pondering its admonitions, tenets and purposes,
• committing to memory its exhortations and prayers,
• mastering the essentials of its administration, and
• keeping abreast of its current affairs and latest developments.

1. "Study for themselves, conscientiously and painstakingly, the literature of their Faith."

Each individual is responsible for the progress of his or her soul. Each is called to study, every day, the Writings of the Faith.

"Immerse yourselves in the ocean of My words, that ye may unravel its secrets, and discover all the pearls of wisdom that lie hid in its depths." (Bahá’u’lláh, Synopsis and Codification of the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, p. 27)

"Recite ye the verses of God every morning and evening." (Bahá’u’lláh, The Importance of Deepening, p. 1, #1)

• What does it mean to study "conscientiously"?
• What constitutes "the literature of the Faith"?

2. "Delve into its teachings."

"Delving" into the teachings means to explore or probe the Writings for the truths they contain. Searching for meanings within the Words we read requires thoughtful effort.

"My holy, My divinely ordained Revelation may be likened unto an ocean in whose depths are concealed innumerable pearls of great price, of surpassing luster. It is the duty of every seeker to bestir himself and strive to attain the shores of this ocean, so that he may, in proportion to the eagerness of his search and the efforts he hath exerted, partake of such benefits as have been pre-ordained in God's irrevocable and hidden Tablets." (Bahá’u’lláh, Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 326)

• How do I "delve" into the teachings?
• What is the role of reflection in this process?
• Does everyone have some capacity to study the Writings?

3. "Assimilate its laws and principles."

To "assimilate" means to understand and incorporate. Living the Bahá’í life requires understanding the principles of the Faith and changing one's life to live according to those principles.

"Think not that We have revealed unto you a mere code of laws. Nay, rather, We have unsealed the choice Wine with the fingers of might and power. To this beareth witness that which the Pen of Revelation hath revealed. Meditate upon this, O men of insight!" (Bahá’u’lláh, Synopsis of the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, p. 12)

"It is incumbent upon every man of insight and understanding to strive to translate that which hath been written into reality and action." (Bahá’u’lláh, Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 166)

• How can I change my attitudes and behaviors?

4. "Ponder its admonitions, tenets and purposes."

To "ponder" is to think deeply about a subject. It can mean to meditate, contem- See SUCCESS page 18

Conferences are held at Green Acre, in Chicago for Chinese-speakers

Two conferences for Chinese-speaking Bahá’ís were held recently, the first June 26-28 at the Green Acre Bahá’í School and the second August 21-23 at the Bahá’í Center in Chicago.

The Green Acre conference, for Mandarin speakers in the Northeast, drew more than 20 Chinese from Florida, Massachusetts, New York, New Hampshire, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas and Wisconsin. It was sponsored by the National Chinese Teaching Committee in cooperation with the Green Acre School and the Spiritual Assembly of Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Through lectures and discussions, the friends studied the life and teachings of Bahá’u’lláh, the significance of His Revelation, and His Covenant and administration.

The Chicago conference, inspired by the event at Green Acre, drew 22 Chinese from Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Pennsylvania, Texas and Wisconsin.

The conference used no speakers; instead, workshops were conducted on the statement on Bahá’u’lláh and Call to the Nations, from the writings of Shoghi Effendi, in Chinese.

A highlight was the presentation of the most recent Bahá’í newsreel, with the commemoration of the anniversary of the Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh, in Mandarin Chinese.

The conference ended with tours of the Bahá’í House of Worship and Bahá’í National Center. [Page 6]6 THE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í

Bahá’í Families Perspectives, Principles, Practice by Patricia Wilcox SC $10.95

When two people marry they set about creating a family unit. Each one has an idea of what a family should be. Where do these ideas come from?

Bahá’ís derive their understanding of marriage from the Bahá’í Writings, a priceless storehouse of divine guidance.

In Bahá’í Families: Perspectives, Principles, Practice Patricia Wilcox—teacher, family counsellor, and mother of five—draws on the teaching of the Bahá’í Faith to provide an insight into the development of happy, strong, and united families. In particular, she looks at marriage as a “fortress for well-being,” unity and diversity within the family, the equality of women and men, and family in transition. She also examines the education of children and consultation as a tool for progress. 5-1/4" x 8-1/2", 166pp., contents, foreword, references, bibliography George Ronald, Publisher

Special Times by Susan Engle and Jean White CS $9.95

Popular songwriter Susan Engle has teamed up with Jean White, Priscilla Jeanne, and Nina Doering to produce a new cassette tape for children. The cassette is divided into seven sections that correspond to parts of Bahá’í life that are familiar to Bahá’í children: Waking Up, Morning Prayers, Bahá’í Schools, Teaching The Cause of God, Feast, Holy Days, and Going to Bed. Dialogue between a parent and child introduces each section. Instrumental accompaniment is intentionally sparse, says Susan Engle, to help “celebrate the use of the human voice and to encourage people to sing.” Quotations from the Bahá’í writings are both spoken and sung to aid memorization. If you enjoyed Come and Sing or Loving Hands, you’ll love this cassette. Approx. 60 minutes Shoestring Productions

NEW VIDEOS

An Introduction to Bahá’u’lláh by Douglas Martin VT $14.95

Originally prepared for TV broadcast in Canada, Mr. Douglas Martin, Director of the Office of Public Information at the Bahá’í World Centre, talks about Bahá’u’lláh. His engaging comments are based on the recent publication written by the Office of Public Information at the request of the Universal House of Justice. This program is not only an excellent program for Bahá’ís who are studying the statement on Bahá’u’lláh, but also provides a fine introduction to Bahá’u’lláh for those encountering the Faith for the first time. Ideal for use at firesides, Bahá’í-club meetings, and classes on comparative religion. 27 minutes Vision TV / Visual Services Office

The Bahá’í Faith by Patrick Vickers HC 11.50

This book looks at the Bahá’í Faith, the youngest of the world religions, from the viewpoint of two Bahá’í children. The clear, easy-to-read text covers family and community life, holy days, basic beliefs, and Bahá’í history. Combined with original full-color photographs and illustrations, it conveys in a straight-forward way what it means to be a young Bahá’í. This book will be particularly welcomed by teachers working in a multi-faith context because of its stress on shared spiritual values and respect for all the world’s great religious traditions. 6-1/2" x 9-1/8", 64pp., contents, index Oneworld Publications

The Bahá’í Newsreel, Volume 3, Number 2 by Bahá’í Media Services VT $15.95

SPECIAL HOLY YEAR EDITION! Centenary of the Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh—expanded coverage of the commemoration services in the Holy Land and around the world. Twelve new National Spiritual Assemblies formed at Ridván. Brazilian Federal Chamber of deputies holds solemn plenary session to pay homage to Bahá’u’lláh. Bahá’í International Community addresses world leaders at UNCED “Earth Summit” in Rio de ‎Janiero Janeiro‎. BIC activities at the related “Global Forum” conference of Non-Governmental Organizations in Rio: Symposium on moral leadership, contribution of Bahá’í children and youth, “Global 500” award for Bahá’í Institute in India, Peace Monument—enduring Bahá’í legacy. Commemorative postal stamps in Brazil and Trinidad and Tobago. The Prime Minister of Guyana responds to Bahá’í development activities. Bahá’í leadership on race issues in the wake of the Los Angeles riots in America. Tribal chiefs embrace the Faith as the “Ocean of Light” spreads to ‎Vanatu Vanuatu‎. 48 minutes

Bahá’í Prayers A Selection SC $.50

An inexpensive, introductory selection of prayers from the Bahá’í writings. Included is Blessed is the Spot, the short obligatory prayer, and prayers for assistance, morning, journey, night, children, youth, parents, healing, spiritual growth, forgiveness, the departed, mankind, teaching, and unity. Also included are selections from The Hidden Words and a calendar of the Nineteen Day Feast. An excellent gift. 3" x 4-1/4", 29pp., table of contents Bahá’í Publishing Trust of Malaysia

Naw-Rúz: New Day A Compilation HC $14.95

Read this exciting new compilation on Naw-Rúz, long-celebrated in Iran as the ancient New Year—now a world holiday of the Bahá’í Faith. Contains prayers and sacred writings for the occasion, historic Bábí and Bahá’í celebrations, significance of the Bahá’í calendar, and some Persian customs associated with Naw-Rúz, including recipes for delicious Persian food! 5-1/4" x 7-1/4", 92pp., table of contents, preface, sources, appendix Kalimát Press

Occasions of Grace by Roger White SC $11.95

Here is the long-awaited major volume of Roger White’s works written over the last decade since his previous two collections Another Song, Another Season and A Witness of Pebbles.

This new collection brings together a wide selection of poems, portrayals, vignettes and a good dash of White’s well-loved humor. It delicately balances a sympathetic portrayal of the strength of the Faith and its adherents with a portrayal of the vagaries of twentieth century life. Truly a portrayal of the new and old world orders. 8-1/4" x 5-1/2" George Ronald, Publisher

WORLD CONGRESS COMMEMORATIVES

Posters “Unity” Poster large (16" x 23") $5.00 each “Faith” Poster large (16" x 23") $5.00 each “Unity” Poster small (7" x 10") 5 for $5.00 “Faith” Poster small (7" x 10") 5 for $5.00

A unique presentation of Bahá’u’lláh’s words surrounded by lively colorful borders and patterns that reflect the Bahá’í Communities coming together in New York. Printed on archival quality acid-free paper. Suitable for framing. Available with two different quotations and in two sizes. World Congress Office

Medallion $35.00 each

A ‎three- inch three-inch‎ bronze medal. One side depicts the familiar World Congress logo. The other side presents a “hoop of many hoops” pattern surrounded by words to remind us of the event’s significance. World Congress Office

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

‘ILM B.E. 149 / October 16, 1992 [Page 7]

Bahá’u’lláh Art Print

AP $5.00 Bahá’í Publications Australia has produced an inexpensive full-color poster using the same cover as the hardcover and general editions of the statement on Bahá’u’lláh. Suitable for framing or for use at public gatherings and book displays. The quote at the bottom of the poster reads:

“We desire but the good of the world and the happiness of the nations . . . That all nations should become one in faith and all men as brothers; that the diversity of religion should cease, and differences of race annulled—what harm is there in this?”

20-3/4” x 15”

Journal of Bahá’í Studies Vol. 4, No. 1

SC $6.00 Baharieh Ma’ani’s detailed historical examination of the role North American women played in education and women’s movements in Iran includes brief biographies of such luminaries as Dr. Susan Moody and Keith Ransom-Kehler. ** Bret Brenneman takes a close look at Socrates’ use of rhetoric in his dialogues, and concludes that, at its best, Socrates’ “pedagogical” rhetoric “demonstrates the nurturing nature of refined speech.” ** Michael Sours probes into the relationship and meaning of some of the central figures in Christianity and the Bahá’í Faith, with emphasis on Sophia, the Greek personification of wisdom, and The Maid of Heaven. ** Ross Woodman offers ‎and an‎ unfettered interpretation of the work of the famous modern artists in a Bahá’í context.

6” x 9”, 95pp., contents, biographical notes Association for Bahá’í Studies

Journal of Bahá’í Studies Vol. 4, No. 2

SC $6.00 This issue features a comprehensive article on the role of women in art. Anne Atkinson delves into the Bahá’í writings to support the belief that in a Bahá’í society women’s creativity, fully developed and recognized, will be a powerful force for the advancement of humanity. ** Phyllis Chew, a language teacher in Singapore, draws partially on her own background in her detailed comparison of traditional Taoist beliefs in relation to the Faith and other religions. ** Another educator, Maija Pihlainen, describes a participatory approach to learning at the Macau-based School of Nations that she characterizes as “a potential instructional model within which Bahá’í principles and ideas, with their emphasis on moral education, participation, cooperation, and consultation could be effectively implemented.” The issue also contains five reviews of ‎book books‎ relevant to the Bahá’í Faith.

Clearance Sale!

Title	Was	Now
Bahá’í Faith in America	9.95	5.00
Bahá’í Faith World Religious Stat.	9.95	5.00
Bahá’í Peace Program - Pack of 5	4.50	3.00
Bahá’í Studies 15: Abiding Silence	5.00	3.00
Blessings Beyond Measure	14.50	7.25
Centers of Bahá’í Learning	2.00	1.00
Compilation of Compilations	39.95	25.00
Consultation Compilation	2.00	1.00
Creating Patterns of Unity, Guide	6.95	3.50
Dawning Place, SC	2.50	1.00
Drawings, Verse and Belief	19.95	10.00
From Strength to Strength	2.00	1.00
Iran's Secret Pogrom	3.50	1.75
Journal Bahá’í Studies Vol. 2, No. 3	5.00	2.50
Journal Bahá’í Studies Vol. 1, No. 4	5.00	2.50
Journal Bahá’í Studies Vol. 2, No. 1	6.00	3.00
Peace: More than an End to War, SC	10.95	5.50
Perspective Series, Education	12.95	6.50
Pictorial History/S. Africa	6.95	3.50
Power of Unity	6.50	3.25
Sense of History, SC	11.95	6.00
The Six Year Plan	7.00	3.50
Special Measure of Love	2.00	1.00
Spiritual Foundations	2.00	1.00
Stirring of the Spirit	2.00	1.00
Teaching Prominent People	1.50	.75
Traces That Remain	19.95	10.00
Valley of Search	11.95	6.00
Way to Inner Freedom	7.50	3.75
Kid’s Books
BJ and the Language of the Woodland	5.95	3.95
Birth Announcement Cards	4.50	3.00
Children’s Feast Packet #3	32.50	20.00
Fly Away Home	6.95	3.95
My Baby Book	8.00	5.25
Youth in Vanguard	6.00	3.00
Special Materials
‘Abdu’l-Bahá Color Litho 11" x 14"	8.50	5.00
Bahá’í Coloring Book, Set/4	8.00	5.00
Do It Yourself Sticker Kit	1.60	.50
Gift of Life, 10/pk.	6.95	4.25
Native American Cards, 8/pk.	9.95	5.00
Tapestry Notecards, 10/pk.	14.00	7.00

RECENT NEW TITLES

CHI: Bahá’u’lláh
SC $3.00

The Invisible Hand
SC $9.95

The Life of the Soul
PA 10/pk $3.50 100/pk $25.00

The Bahá’í Faith, What is It?
PA 10/pk $3.50 100/pk $25.00

Hidden Words (British Edition)
HC $14.95 / SC $9.95

Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh
PS $3.00 net

Education on Trial
SC $14.95

Day of Glory
HC $24.95 / SC $11.95

Nearness to God, HC
HC $14.95

Seven Valleys (British Edition)
HC $14.95 / SC $9.95

Models of Unity
SC $1.00

Garden of Bahá’u’lláh
HC $9.95

NOTICES

BDS WILL BE CLOSED NOVEMBER 23-NOVEMBER 27

The Bahá’í Distribution Service will be closed from November 23 through November 27 for The Bahá’í World Congress.

THE COVENANT OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH

The Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh, by Adib Taherzadeh, is now out of print in hardcover. George Ronald, the publisher of the book, assures us that they are planning to reprint the book in softcover in the near future. We regret this inconvenience.

Bahá’í Distribution Service / 1-800-999-9019

5397 Wilbanks Dr., Chattanooga, TN 37343 FAX 1-615-843-0836 AOA

ORDER FORM (Export orders add 15% for shipping)

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
TOTAL

[Page 8]

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 BOSCH Bahá’í School is seeking a recreational leader for its 1993 summer program. This person will work up to 40 hours per week during the summer session-10/11 weeks during the summer program-and will be housed on campus. Pay consists of room and board and 20 hours per week at minimum wage. Qualifications include knowledge of basic recreational activities such as volleyball, swimming, ping pong, baseball/softball. In addition, the person hired will be expected to conduct exercise/aerobics classes and morning jogs/walks, and will be responsible for checking out and maintaining in an orderly fashion all athletic/recreational equipment. This individual should also be able to serve as a swimming pool lifeguard, and musical talent would be helpful for sing-alongs and participation as needed during evening programs. Those who are interested should send a letter of intent to the Bosch School, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, or phone 408-423-3387 (fax 408-423-7564). Bosch will send an application form to those who ask for it by letter, phone or fax. Those who apply should understand that transportation at Bosch is limited, and the school is a good distance from metro areas, shopping centers or public transport. Service in this position would begin in early June 1993.

THE LOUHELEN Bahá’í School has a regular and continuing need for short-term and long-term volunteers in a variety of areas. Applications to serve are especially invited from individuals and/or couples interested in one-year or longer periods of service. The school is seeking help from professionally skilled Bahá’ís able to serve the school for a few days or weeks at regular intervals throughout the year. Especially needed are mechanics; building maintenance and heating/air conditioning specialists; gardeners and agriculturalists; and carpenters to provide scheduled service at mutually convenient times during the year and to help with preventive maintenance programs, seasonally-urgent projects, and special property-enhancement projects. Also needed is a talented gardener or small-scale agriculturalist who can offer long-term full-time service to the school. Room and board and full participation in Louhelen’s active Bahá’í conference schedule and community life are available for the person or couple invited to serve in this extremely important role. Those who are interested in any of these positions are asked to write to Dr. Rick Johnson, director, Louhelen Bahá’í School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423 (phone 313-653-5033; fax 313-653-7181).

ASSISTANT cook: a full-time position during the summer program (10-12) weeks and part-time the rest of the year (20-30 hours per week depending on the session) at the Bosch Bahá’í School. Should have experience in food preparation for large groups-up to 150-breakfast, lunch and dinner. Knowledge of meal planning, menu preparation, nutrition and use of restaurant-type kitchen equipment would be helpful. Housing at Bosch may be available. Please send a letter of intent to the Bosch Bahá’í School, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060. Phone 408-423-3387 or fax materials to 408-423-7564. Bosch will send application forms on receipt of letters of intent or phone/fax calls. A car is necessary, as the school is some distance from major shopping and population centers.

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 VOR 2W0, Canada, or telephone 604-743-7144.

PIONEERING (HOMEFRONT)

FAYETTEVILLE, Georgia, needs four active adult Bahá’ís to raise the Group to Assembly status. We are presently five adults and five children who are seeking other souls on fire with the love of God to help teach the masses in this area. We recently held a successful Race Unity Day event, and soon will present copies of the race unity statement to the mayor and other local officials. We need ardent souls to help set the area aflame and receive the bounties conferred on a local Assembly. Fayetteville offers good schools, employment opportunities, and easy access to Atlanta and the airport. Come visit, or write or phone for more information to Bernice Rosenstreich Hunter, Fayetteville, GA 30214 (phone 404-460-9831).

THE SCHOOL district of Columbia, Missouri, is actively seeking to employ black teachers at the elementary and secondary school levels. The Bahá’í community of Columbia is active and growing, but needs diversity. Columbia, close to the country but only two hours from Kansas City or St. Louis, is a prime area for promoting race unity. To request an application, write to Dr. Gene Huff, Columbia, MO 65203. For more information, phone the Bahá’ís of Columbia, 314-449-6799, or write to P.O. Box 1421, Columbia, MO 65205.

NEEDED: Bahá’ís who are interested in relocating to Jackson, Michigan, to help the local Spiritual Assembly which is in jeopardy. For more information, please phone Alexandra Rivera-Rule, 517-783-6236.

DOCTORS and other health care professionals are desperately needed to serve Indian communities in Nebraska, Iowa, North Dakota and South Dakota. This homefront pioneering opportunity includes the potential for carrying Bahá’u’lláh’s Message to American Indians. For more information, please phone Ada James at the National Teaching Committee Office, 708-869-9039.

COLORS needed: white crayons seek rich tones with which to brighten the box. The Bahá’í communities of Greenwich, Schuylerville, Easton, Fort Edward and Saratoga, New York, would like to diversify the area with many skin tones. Near the state capital and other small to medium cities, the Greenwich area offers close community relationships, easy access to larger towns (30-45 minutes), and access to Vermont’s recreational and historic sites. If you would like to know more about the economic security, social attitudes, job opportunities, educational systems and property rates in the area, please phone the Gometz family, 518-692-9094. You are also invited to spend a weekend for an "up close and personal" view of the area. Local Bahá’ís will help you.

PIONEERING (OVERSEAS)

EMPLOYMENT opportunities overseas: AFRICA-Angola: water engineer. Burkina Faso: administrative officer for the WHO’s Onchocerciasis Control Program. Chad: project advisor, country representative for Africare. AMERICAS-Bermuda: chief financial officer. Brazil: elementary school teachers, kindergarten teacher. ASIA-Korea: chief mechanical engineer. Singapore: software programmer. AUSTRALASIA-Kwajalein Atoll: automotive mechanics, electronic and communications technicians, SATCOM, CRYPTO/COMSEC, GPS. EUROPE-Hungary: senior social security specialist, senior industrial relations specialist, wage and remuneration specialist. Romania: child psychologist, nurse, occupational therapist, pediatric dietitian, physical therapist. Russia: radio/television journalists and production specialists. MULTI-REGIONAL-program officer for Traffic USA for the World Wildlife Fund. Senior construction engineers for upcoming projects in East Africa. International health care consultants for short- and long-term assignments for USAID-sponsored projects. For more information on any of the above, please contact the Office of Pioneering at the Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette IL 60091; telephone 708-869-9039 or fax 708-869-0247, Attn: Office of Pioneering.

URGENT need in Brazil for a kindergarten teacher and two elementary school teachers for the School of the Nations Bahá’í School. For more information, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039; fax 708-869-0247).

THE NATIONAL Spiritual Assembly of Guatemala is seeking an older, retired couple to occupy the caretaker house at its national institute. For more information, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039; fax 708-869-0247).

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: Mary McKee (died Brooklyn, NY, 1944), Mary P. McKeegan, Marie E. McKevitt, Annie E. McKinney (died Providence, RI, 1935), Edna M. McKinney, Carolyn McLeod, Nagene McMahon, Edna McManamey (died Fruitport, MI, 1972), and Barbara Ann McVay. 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 still has available several sets of unbound issues of World Order magazine, 1966-83, vols. 1-6, 8-17. The sets are complete except for missing vol. 7. The sets will be given to any local Spiritual Assembly or other Bahá’í institution that could use them for their library or to give to a local or college library. Please contact the National Bahá’í Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039).

WANTED

THE INTERNATIONAL Bahá’í Audio-Visual Center (IBAVC), a field agency of the Universal House of Justice, is looking for writers of radio scripts. We are especially interested in obtaining script series on topical issues such as the environment, racism, and world peace. IBAVC offers scripts to Bahá’í communities around the world-a wonderful way to multiply the effects of your teaching efforts. For more information, or to submit scripts, write to IBAVC, Maracaibo, Venezuela, or fax (59) (61) 618572 or (59) (61) 912958.

WANTED: children's plays on racism for community presentation. Please contact K. Tomarelli, Westminster, MD 21158.

WANTED: your personal "Bahá’í" stories (audio taped, handwritten or typed) for a collection to be shared at Bahá’í schools and in book form (the working title is "Stories of Everyday Miracles"). The four categories in which I am most interested are (1) your personal teaching stories/triumphs; (2) how/when/where you became a Bahá’í (your own story of seeking); (3) stories that confirm "there are no accidents or coincidences"; and (4) your most meaningful "Bahá’í" dream (what it was and how it has affected your life choices since). Don't worry about spelling or grammar. Please take the time to help me record the life stories and Bahá’í history that we "children of the half-light" are helping to create. Please send stories to Anne R. Jennison, Lee, NH 03824 (phone 603-659-3868).

FORUM, a new international Bahá’í magazine, is being published under the auspices of the National Spiritual Assembly of New Zealand. The quarterly magazine, whose purpose is to bring Bahá’ís closer together by promoting an exchange of information and ideas, invites contributions from writers. If you have something to offer, or would like more information about the magazine, please write to Forum, c/o The Marshall Family, Dunedin, New Zealand (phone/fax (64 3) 473-7279).

MILWAUKEE, Wisconsin, is known as the City of Festivals, and the Spiritual Assembly of Milwaukee would like to make Race Unity Day/Weekend one of the best festivals of them all. This year's event, the only one in the city promoting its cultural diversity, drew more than 1,000 people. To make it an even greater success, the friends are looking for entertainers from diverse backgrounds. If you are interested in taking part, please send a letter outlining talent and fee considerations to: Race Unity Day Task Force, Milwaukee Bahá’í Center, Milwaukee, WI 53205.

I AM SEEKING biographical information, photographs and personal anecdotes about Mary Tucker Hatcher to augment some notebooks and audio taped interviews that have been placed in my keeping. The information gathered will be organized into book form, with emphasis on Mary's career as a Bahá’í teacher and homefront pioneer in New Hampshire. Please send any photos, letters or your handwritten, typewritten or taped reminiscences (don't worry about spelling, grammar, etc.) to Anne R. Jennison, Lee, NH 03824 (phone 603-659-3868).

WANTED: correspondence from isolated believers. Knowing how lonely it can be, especially on Feasts and Holy Days, I would like to start a correspondence club to bring isolated believers together to discuss successes, problems, teaching efforts, and to deepen on matters of the Faith. Please write to M.J.A. Isaacs, Alpine, TX 79830. All correspondence will be answered.

MISCELLANEOUS

THE INTERNATIONAL Bahá’í Audio-Visual Center (IBAVC) will be publishing a catalog of materials related to the Holy Year (including videos, audio cassettes, radio programs, slide sets). The catalog will list information on what is available and who is distributing it. If you would like your materials to be included, please write to IBAVC, Maracaibo, Venezuela, or fax the relevant information to (59) (61) 618572 or (59) (61) 912958.

A RESOURCE LIST of Bahá’í environmental professionals is being compiled, the immediate purpose of which is to include Bahá’ís in overseas environmental projects with international agencies. Opportunities may be short-term or long-term with a special focus on projects in Eastern Europe. The list is being compiled in consultation with the Bahá’í International Community Office of the Environment and the International Teaching Center. If interested, please forward your résumé to Alexander Tavangar, Geo-Environmental Consultants Inc., 55 Valley Stream Parkway, Suite 140, Malvern, PA 19355. Fax 215-251-2366; telephone 215-251-0900.

FOR SALE

A SELECTION of six 8 1/2 by 11-inch reproducible flyers addressing issues relevant to American Indians is being offered by the Regional American Indian Teaching Committee for the Southern West States. For more information, please contact the committee in care of Mike Bigler, Stillwater, OK 74074. [Page 9]

World News

During the past Bahá’í year, 4,294 new believers were enrolled in the Faith in Guyana. In several areas, teaching activities have been aimed at reaching prominent people, some of whom have embraced the Faith and gone on to lend support to community development projects the Bahá’ís are undertaking.

Last January, 10 new local Spiritual Assemblies were formed and 230 new believers enrolled in the Faith in the indigenous areas of Chimaltenango, Sacatepéquez and Quetzaltenango, Guatemala. The teaching campaign was carried out by a team consisting of three young women in their Youth Year of Service and two other traveling teachers.

More than 140 participants representing 14 countries and 25 Romanian localities attended the first National Bahá’í Conference for the Holy Year held June 5-7 in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. Among the speakers were Douglas Martin, director of the Bahá’í Office of Public Information at the World Center in Haifa, Israel, and Auxiliary Board members Ligia McGill of Romania, Marzio Zambello of Italy, and Robert Weinberg of the United Kingdom. As a result of direct teaching activities in Cluj-Napoca during the conference, 26 people embraced the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh.

The efforts of four young women who have been teaching while traveling across Hungary have led to a 30 percent increase in the number of believers in that country during a 10-month period. The team has visited schools, orphanages, homes for the elderly, taught in the streets, presented concerts and public talks, and conducted firesides. During their stay in Békéscsaba in the eastern part of the country, nine people embraced the Faith in 10 days.

Ten people were enrolled in the Faith during the first Regional Bahá’í Women’s Conference in Mali, held last May 3 in Bougouni. Attending were 35 Bahá’í women, 35 men, and 60 children. The focus of discussion was monogamy, the equality and rights of women and men, child education, and practical health matters.

As a result of increased teaching activities in and around Paris, France, six people have been enrolled in the Faith since last Naw-Rúz, while a number of others have drawn close to the Faith. The Regional Teaching Committee recently increased the number of Bahá’í posters in the area from 300 to 400, and there has been a 90 percent increase in the number of contacts.

The first program to mention the Faith on Transkei television was filmed at the Bahá’í Center in Umtata and featured children presenting Bahá’í songs, skits, and quotations from the Writings. The children, some of whom were not Bahá’ís, came from four communities.

Tony Howey, a Bahá’í from near Timaru in the center of the South Island of New Zealand has won the prestigious Nuffield Scholarship, awarded annually to outstanding farmers. Mr. Howey, who is spending the latter half of this year studying in the United Kingdom, is interested in seeds, grains and large-scale vegetable production as well as biological control of weeds and pests and the development of markets for high-value low-weight crops.

As a special contribution to the centenary commemoration of the Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh, the National Spiritual Assembly of Spain decided to have 100 public conferences May 28-29. In spite of many obstacles, including the absence for commemoration in Haifa of 20 of the country’s most active believers, 89 of the conferences were held including one in Ceuta, a Spanish town in northern Morocco. Statistics from 70 of the conferences show a total attendance of more than 3,000 including 2,000 non-Bahá’ís; 44 articles in the nation’s press; 60 radio interviews, 25 of which were more than 20 minutes long; Bahá’í guests on 10 television programs; attendance at the conferences by four city mayors, 10 local authorities and one ambassador; 22,000 posters proclaiming the name of Bahá’u’lláh and announcing the events; the distribution of 1,000 press kits; and the sale by the Spanish Publishing Trust of 25,000 copies of the statement on Bahá’u’lláh for use at the conferences.

More than 60 Bahá’ís from East New Britain gathered for a recent one-day institute on ‘The Story of the Fund’ at the Bahá’í Center in Rabaul, Papua New Guinea. The guest speakers were Kesia Aisoli from Lae and Rajah Segeran from Kimbe. Also included were prayers, a workshop on the Fund, and a presentation of the Bahá’í newsreel from the U.S.

For the ninth year in a row, ‎Bahá’í Bahá’ís‎ took part in the annual Book Fair in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The Fair, with more than 4,000 stands exhibiting more than a million titles, is considered one of the most important such events in Latin America. Some 1,000,000 people visited the Fair this year.

With the holding of a meeting in the Community Center in Parsons, 15 miles northwest of Basseterre, the Island Teaching Committee opened another rural village to the Faith in St. Kitts, West Leeward Islands. Four adults and about 25 youth and children attended the meeting, and one adult was later enrolled in the Faith.

To stabilize the excavation of the site for the Center of the Study of the Texts at the World Center on Mount Carmel in Haifa, Israel, more than 300 anchors have been placed into the mountain. Here a worker sprays on a special type of concrete to prevent rocks from falling.

Sen Soeurn (right), a Cambodian Bahá’í from Lowell, Massachusetts, meets with Robert C. Henderson, secretary-general of the National Spiritual Assembly, during a recent visit to the Bahá’í National Center in Wilmette, Illinois. This was Mr. Soeurn’s first visit to the Bahá’í House of Worship and the National Center.

Cambodian Bahá’í among distinguished speakers at Louhelen’s Southeast Asian Helpers Conference

Sen Soeurn, a Cambodian Bahá’í from Lowell, Massachusetts, was one of four distinguished guest speakers at the Southeast Asian Helpers Conference held July 24-26 at the Louhelen Bahá’í School in Davison, Michigan.

Mr. Soeurn presented an informative talk on “Buddhism and the Bahá’í Faith,” addressing the similarities between the teachings of Buddha and Bahá’u’lláh.

When a Buddhist accepts Bahá’u’lláh, said Mr. Soeurn, it is not a “conversion” but a changing of state to accept the newest and latest “Buddha.”

Buddhists, he said, tend to be receptive to Bahá’u’lláh once they learn about His life and teachings. Once they accept Him, they are eager to follow His ways, which is not difficult because of the many similarities between Buddhist and Bahá’í expectations of personal conduct.

Mr. Soeurn, who was a Buddhist before he came to the U.S., spent most of his early life in a Buddhist monastery and was educated in high school by Buddhist monks. His search for spiritual truth led him to the Bahá’í Faith. [Page 10]

THE MEDIA

Extracts from Writings on proclaiming Faith through mass media

To National Spiritual Assemblies

Dear Bahá’í Friends,

A few months ago, the World Congress Media Task Force, which is charged with organizing media activities in connection with the World Congress, asked the World Center to prepare a compilation of extracts from the Writings on proclaiming the Faith through mass media. When the Task Force received and studied the compilation that was prepared, they indicated that they had found it helpful, and suggested that a copy be sent to National Spiritual Assemblies, as it might be equally useful to them.

The Universal House of Justice has approved this suggestion, and it is hoped that the copy that follows will perhaps prove to be of help to you, or to the national committees appointed by you, in promoting your proclamation work through the mass media.

With loving Bahá’i greetings,

Universal House of Justice Department of the Secretariat

(EDITOR'S NOTE: In the future The American Bahá’í will publish excerpts from the Writings and statements from the Guardian and the Universal House of Justice about other aspects of Bahá’í relations with the communications media.)

FROM THE WRITINGS OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH

"In this Day the secrets of the earth are laid bare before the eyes of men. The pages of swiftly-appearing newspapers are indeed the mirror of the world. They reflect the deeds and the pursuits of divers peoples and kindreds. They both reflect them and make them known. They are a mirror endowed with hearing, sight and speech. This is an amazing and potent phenomenon. However, it behoveth the writers thereof to be purged from the promptings of evil passions and desires and to be attired with the raiment of justice and equity. They should enquire into situations as much as possible and ascertain the facts, then set them down in writing." (Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh Revealed after the Kitáb-i-Aqdas; Wilmette: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1988, p. 39) (1)

"O newspapers published throughout the cities and countries of the world! Have ye heard the groan of the downtrodden, and have their cries of anguish reached your ears? Or have these remained concealed? It is hoped that ye will investigate the truth of what hath occurred and vindicate it." (From a Tablet translated from the Arabic) (2)

"Say: O men! This is a matchless Day. Matchless must, likewise, be the tongue that celebrateth the praise of the Desire of all nations, and matchless the deed that aspireth to be acceptable in His sight. The whole human race hath longed for this Day, that perchance it may fulfill that which well beseemeth its station, and is worthy of its destiny. Blessed is the man whom the affairs of the world have failed to deter from recognizing Him Who is the Lord of all things." (Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh; Wilmette: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1983, p. 39) (3)

"Teach thou the Cause of God with an utterance which will cause the bushes to be enkindled, and the call 'Verily, there is no God but Me, the Almighty, the Unconstrained' to be raised therefrom. Say: Human utterance is an essence which aspireth to exert its influence and needeth moderation. As to its influence, this is conditional upon refinement which in turn is dependent upon hearts which are detached and pure. As to its moderation this hath to be combined with tact and wisdom as prescribed in the Holy Scriptures and Tablets. Meditate upon that which hath streamed forth from the heaven of the Will of thy Lord, He Who is the Source of all grace, that thou mayest grasp the intended meaning which is enshrined in the sacred depths of the Holy Writings." (Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh Revealed after the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, p. 143) (4)

"Thou hast written that one of the friends hath composed a treatise. This was mentioned in the Holy Presence, and this is what was revealed in response: Great care should be exercised that whatever is written in these days doth not cause dissension, and invite the objection of the people. Whatever the friends of the one true God say in these days is listened to by the people of the world. It hath been revealed in the Lawh-i-Hikmat: 'The unbelievers have inclined their ears towards us in order to hear that which might enable them to cavil against God, the Help in Peril, the Self-Subsisting. Whatever is written should not transgress the bounds of tact and wisdom, and in the words used there should lie hid the property of milk, so that the children of the world may be nurtured therewith, and attain maturity. We have said in the past that one word hath the influence of spring and causeth hearts to become fresh and verdant, while another is like unto blight which causeth the blossoms and flowers to wither. God grant that authors among the friends will write in such a way as would be acceptable to fair-minded souls, and not lead to cavilling by the people." (From a Tablet translated from the Persian and Arabic) (5)

FROM THE WRITINGS OF ‘ABDU’L-BAHÁ

"It is therefore urgent that beneficial articles and books be written, clearly and definitely establishing what the present-day requirements of the people are, and what will conduce to the happiness and advancement of society. These should be published and spread throughout the nation, so that at least the leaders among the people should become, to some degree, awakened, and arise to exert themselves along those lines which will lead to their abiding honor. The publication of high thoughts is the dynamic power in the arteries of life; it is the very soul of the world. Thoughts are a boundless sea, and the effects and varying conditions of existence are as the separate forms and individual limits of the waves; not until the sea boils up will the waves rise and scatter their pearls of knowledge on the shore of life. 'Thou, Brother, art thy thought alone, The rest is only thew and bone.'—Rúmí, The Mathnavi, II 2:277 (The Secret of Divine Civilization; Wilmette: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1983, pp. 109-10) (6)

FROM LETTERS WRITTEN ON BEHALF OF THE GUARDIAN TO INDIVIDUAL BELIEVERS, UNLESS OTHERWISE CITED

"It is undoubtedly very important to have first-class articles, faithfully presenting the teachings of the Cause, appear in outstanding papers. People that, for some reason or other, keep away from the Bahá’í gatherings, and who are nevertheless interested in the spirit and teachings they expound, might find their opportunity in reading such articles that appear in the papers.

"If in every center the friends could win the cooperation of at least one of the local papers, they could thereby start a teaching campaign far more effective than anything yet attempted." (January 11, 1932) (7)

"Concerning the publication of Shoghi Effendi's general letter to the Western friends regarding the world order of Bahá’u’lláh in the local papers: Shoghi Effendi would willingly permit you to do it, either in part or as a whole. He hopes that it will arouse some interest in the Cause and stimulate the teaching work." (May 17, 1932) (8)

"In regard to your wish of broadcasting the Message, Shoghi Effendi would advise you to consult with the Spiritual Assembly as to whether such an action meets their approval, and if so to ask their assistance and help for finding the best means through which to carry out your plan. The idea of a wireless station is rather ambitious and requires much financial expenditure. If, however, you find it feasible and within your financial capacity you should not hesitate to do so, inasmuch as this will enable you to spread the Cause in a much easier and more efficient manner." (August 13, 1933) (9)

"He is fully alive to the difficulties facing the friends at the present time. But he would urge each and all to work harder than ever, and to persevere in order that the Faith may be better appreciated and understood by the public." (February 11, 1934, to a National Spiritual Assembly) (10)

"In connection with your publicity releases, the Guardian wishes your Committee to lay particular emphasis on the fact that the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh marks the coming of age of mankind, and that the principle of the oneness of humanity—which is the core and the distinguishing feature of His Message—is but an evidence of the fact that the world has attained the stage of maturity, and can, therefore, carry this principle of oneness into the concrete realm of social reality. The close relationship that exists between the Faith, the maturity of the world, and the Bahá’í teaching of the oneness of mankind should be carefully analyzed and presented, so as to bring into relief the full significance of the Cause." (February 5, 1938, to a National Spiritual Assembly) (11)

"The Cause, with all its power and perfection, is to a certain extent dependent on the people who compose its ranks, and no doubt in the future, as people possessing greater specialized abilities and talents join it, we shall see a marked advance in the methods it uses to propagate itself." (October 14, 1942) (12)

"In connection with the radio work he has no specific suggestions to make, as he feels that those actively connected with it in the States know the possibilities better. However, he would suggest that the main consideration is to bring to the attention of the public the fact that the Faith exists, and its teachings. Every kind of broadcast, whether of passages from the Writings, or on topical subjects, or lectures, should be used. The people need to hear the word 'Bahá’í' so that they can, if receptive, respond and seek the Cause out. The primary duty of the friends everywhere in the world is to let the people know such a Revelation is in existence; their next duty is to teach it." (July 24, 1943) (13)

"He feels it would be excellent if the Cause could be introduced more to the people through the medium of radio, as it reaches the masses, especially those who do not take an interest in lectures or attend any type of meeting." (March 7, 1945) (14)

"The matter of obtaining free time on the radio is one which the Radio Committee and the National Spiritual Assembly must decide upon; but the principle is that every effort should be made to present the teachings over the air as often as possible as long as the manner in which it is done is compatible with the dignity of our beloved Faith." (August 15, 1945) (15)

"He was also very pleased to see that the Cause is receiving newspaper publicity there, and that you are winning the sympathetic interest of editors and people of importance. The Faith needs friends as well as adherents, and you should always endeavor to attract the hearts of enlightened leaders to its teachings." (October 5, 1945, to a local Spiritual Assembly) (16)

"He was very pleased to see the excellent publicity the Cause received in the Chicago Sunday Tribune, and hopes more will be forthcoming, of a similar nature, all over the country. In this connection, he sees no objection to using the advice and services of non-Bahá’í experts, or agencies, as long as the purity of the teachings and the dignity of the Faith are maintained.

"LIKEWISE, large, well-publicized meetings and interesting radio programs should be concentrated on. Every effort should also be made to obtain wide, first-class publicity for the Faith in newspapers and magazines." (December 21, 1945, to a National Spiritual Assembly) (17)

"So very much depends on how the Cause is presented to the public, and the Guardian is always anxious to see the friends devise new ways and means of teaching and publicity." (February 25, 1946) (18)

"He still feels that the type of films you wish to produce for teaching the public and stimulating the Bahá’ís themselves, are of great importance, and he urges you not to give up this work which you are fitted to do, but rather to write again to the new National Spiritual Assembly and ask them to appoint a committee which will be able to [Page 11]really assist you.

"The Bahá’ís should not always be the last to take up new and obviously excellent methods, but rather the first, as this agrees with the dynamic nature of the Faith, which is not only progressive, but holds within itself the seeds of an entirely new culture and civilization." (May 5, 1946) (19)

"THESE slides of our Bahá’í Temple and various activities are very interesting, and open a new door on the teaching approach to the general public. The more interesting sets [that] can be collected and circulated amongst the friends, the better..." (December 28, 1946) (20)

"Your suggestion for a motion picture about the Cause is very good in principle, but such a film would have to be of the highest order, and he feels you should turn to the National Spiritual Assembly for advice in this matter. As we cannot show the Founders of the Faith, out of respect for Their exalted station, a scenario about the Cause would have to be truly a masterpiece in order to have popular appeal." (April 5, 1947) (21)

"He considers your radio contacts very important, and urges you to cooperate with the... National Assembly and in this way assist them and also follow administrative procedure-that is whenever direct Bahá’í broadcasts are envisaged." (July 18, 1947) (22)

"He approves of your desire to teach the principles of the Faith through radio. But he urges you to do all you can to always, however small the reference you are able to make to it may be, clearly identify or associate what you are giving out with Bahá’u’lláh. The time is too short now for us Bahá’ís to be able to first educate humanity and then tell it that the Source is this new World Faith. For their own spiritual protection people must hear of the name Bahá’í-then, if they turn blindly away, they cannot excuse themselves by saying they never even knew it existed! For dark days seem still ahead of the world, and outside of this Divine Refuge the people will not, we firmly believe, find inner conviction, peace and security. So they have a right to at least hear of the Cause as such!" (April 24, 1949) (23)

"He feels that the projected radio broadcasts are of the utmost importance as they afford you an opportunity of bringing to many listeners a sense of the greatness of the Cause. In this connection he has some advice to give you: You should stick carefully to facts and beware of putting any interpretations of facts into it....The Guardian advises you not to introduce into a series for public consumption anything obscure or mystical...." (November 5, 1949) (24)

"The friends must be very alert, vigilant, in giving information to the public; the enemies of the Faith, and readers such as the Ambassador, have access to the press and might rightfully claim we have distorted facts not historically correct. We cannot be too careful, and every statement made should be checked to ensure correct historical facts...." (January 22, 1951, to a National Spiritual Assembly) (25)

"HE WAS immensely pleased to hear of the presentation of the Faith over television, and considers that your Assembly has every right to feel proud of this achievement. It shows that when the strong desire to serve unites the members of a Bahá’í community, they literally break into new fields in their teaching efforts, and their reward is assured.

"He hopes that you will succeed in pioneering in many new ways of bringing the Cause before the public; and he assures you all of his most loving prayers for the success of your work for the Faith." (December 6, 1951, to a local Spiritual Assembly) (26)

"The cable launching the World Crusade deals with some 26 different goals. In the two press releases which you sent the Guardian, mention is made, and not too emphatically, of only a few of these goals. In asking that the Crusade be publicized, the Guardian had in mind a strong portrayal of what our goals are, publicizing all of them. No doubt, a strong public statement for the Press can be released by the National Assembly." (December 5, 1952, to a National Spiritual Assembly) (27)

"The beloved Guardian has received the clippings from English newspapers and read them with keen interest; he attaches much importance to such publicity in journals of such high standing." (August 30, 1955, to a National Spiritual Assembly) (28)

FROM LETTERS WRITTEN BY THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE

"It is essential that those responsible for Bahá’í public relations rid themselves of any concept of the Bahá’í community as merely one religious group among others. This is the Cause of God, struggling to spread His Message for today among a mankind that is receding farther and farther from Him." (July 21, 1968, to a National Spiritual Assembly) (29)

"The proclamation of the Faith, following established plans and aiming to use on an increasing scale the facilities of mass communication must be vigorously pursued. It should be remembered that the purpose of proclamation is to make known to all mankind the fact and general aim of the new Revelation, while teaching programs should be planned to confirm individuals from every stratum of society." (Naw-Rúz 1974 to the Bahá’ís of the world) (30)

"It is our hope that the great power of radio for proclamation, teaching and deepening may be mobilized wherever possible, and with the promising initiatives which have occurred in Ecuador and elsewhere we now anticipate the development of more widespread use of the medium which will be of service to the Cause and to mankind." (April 7, 1974, to a National Spiritual Assembly) (31)

FROM LETTERS WRITTEN ON BEHALF OF THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE

"Obviously, the principles of the Faith should not be paraphrased in public statements in such a way as to distort their meaning, but wisdom dictates how little or how much detail about a specific principle should be presented at any given time...." (June 18, 1975, to a National Spiritual Assembly) (32)

"The main purpose at this time of any publicity related to the Bahá’ís of Iran is to take advantage of the fact that the press and other media are more than ever before ready to publish information about the Faith. Bahá’ís should seize this opportunity to proclaim the Faith, but not to attack the government of Iran." (April 8, 1980, to a National Spiritual Assembly) (33)

"...the main objective of the proclamation to the masses is not so much to deal with current, and often ephemeral, issues but to make known the fact of the new Revelation, the appearance of Bahá’u’lláh and all that event implies for the regeneration and guidance of the world. Of course, your announcement of the Great Message should be made in terms relevant to the people you are addressing and the problems which occupy their minds, but it is much more important to proclaim Bahá’u’lláh and His teachings rather than deal with the controversial issues of the day." (October 19, 1981, to a National Spiritual Assembly) (34)

"The great importance of mass media in the proclamation of the Faith is recognized by all, particularly at this time when the persecutions in Iran have opened many broadcasting doors.

"THE HOUSE of Justice appreciates the zeal of those who are developing this valuable program plan for television production and distribution, and has observed the praiseworthy initiatives resulting in useful productions...." (May 16, 1982, to a private corporation) (35)

"In response to your request for guidance on the best ways to approach artists in teaching the Faith, it can be said that in addition to those methods which attract people generally, artists will be responsive to art. When the sublime teachings of the Faith are reflected in artistic work, the hearts of people, including artists, will be touched. A quotation from the Sacred Writings or description of the art pieces as it relates to the Writings may provide the viewer with an understanding of the source of this spiritual attraction and lead him to further study of the Faith." (July 21, 1982, to an individual) (36)

"Campaign for enlightenment of the Press: This is undoubtedly of great importance and is a field in which an agency such as ... can be of great assistance. However, ... [the agency] should not be left alone to explain Bahá’í materials to important editors; it would be much more effective for a knowledgeable Bahá’í representative with a suitable personality to participate in the press tour.

"Media Training: This too is an excellent suggestion. When Bahá’ís are to appear on radio or television it is most important for the individual to be chosen with care and for that person to be given the necessary training so that a correct impression will be made on the hearers or viewers. A bad or clumsy presentation can produce a lasting bad effect and undo a great deal of earlier good work.

"Informational Material: Here the services of a non-Bahá’í agency can be vital. Like all groups, Bahá’ís tend to develop their own terminology which, while meaningful to Bahá’ís themselves, can be bewildering or even meaningless to a non-Bahá’í audience. The National Assembly or its appropriate committees will know, from the point of view of the Bahá’í teachings, what they want to say, but... [the agency] can help to cast this in a form in which it conveys the correct meaning to the public." (March 20, 1985, to a National Spiritual Assembly) (37)

"Your letter...containing the news of your monthly television programs was received by the Universal House of Justice with great pleasure.

"This is a commendable achievement, and will afford your community every opportunity to become skillful in assembling and preparing suitable materials for these regular transmissions. However, with regard to your question on the use of the Greatest Name in the video taped introduction, we have been instructed to inform you that it is not appropriate to use the Greatest Name in this way. You may wish to choose another suitable symbol, perhaps a nine-pointed star or some other design by which you may be recognized." (August 4, 1986, to a National Spiritual Assembly) (38)

RACE UNITY AMERICAS MONT CHALLENGING ISSUE

"O Thou the Merciful One! O my Lord! Make Thy protection my armory, Thy preservation my shield, humbleness before the door of Thy Oneness my guard, and Thy custody and defense my fortress and abode."—Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 619

The Spiritual Assembly of Washington, D.C., has appointed a Task Force to disseminate the 'Vision of Race Unity' statement from the National Spiritual Assembly. Among the community leaders who have received the statement are the city's 'shadow' Senator, Florence Pendleton (right), pictured with a member of the Spiritual Assembly, Cornelia Rutledge; and the Rev. Jesse Jackson, who accepted the statement with great enthusiasm in March. [Page 12]

Women and men: partnership for a healthy planet

BY THE BAHÁ’Í INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY

"The well-being of mankind, its peace and security, are unattainable unless and until its unity is firmly established." These prophetic words, uttered by Bahá’u’lláh during the closing decades of the nineteenth century, were all but ignored by the leaders of that day. However, in the closing decade of the twentieth century, humanity has become increasingly aware of its interdependence and is convinced at last that no individual, institution or nation can live in total isolation from the whole. The environment/development crisis has caused many to rethink their view of the world and begin to look at the earth as a single organic, interdependent and unified system. Consequently, the search for balance between the needs of society and the limited resources of the natural world is taking place within the larger context of the search for balance, peace and harmony within society itself.

The intimate link between the unity of the human race and equality of the sexes is explained in the Bahá’í Writings:

"...woman must be given the privilege of equal education with man and full right to his prerogatives. That is to say, there must be no difference in the education of male and female in order that womankind may develop equal capacity and importance with man in the social and economic equation. Then the world will attain unity and harmony. In past ages humanity has been defective and inefficient because it has been incomplete. War and its ravages have blighted the world; the education of woman will be a mighty step toward its abolition and ending, for she will use her whole influence against war. Woman rears the child and educates the youth to maturity. She will refuse to give her sons for sacrifice upon the field of battle. In truth, she will be the greatest factor in establishing universal peace and international arbitration. Assuredly, woman will abolish warfare among mankind."

TO DATE, most systems of social organization have marginalized women. Over-all, modern development strategies have tended to reinforce and, at times, exacerbate conditions of inequality. To address inequality of the sexes, the United Nations launched the landmark "Decade for Women: Equality, Development and Peace (1975-1985)." As a result of research undertaken during the Decade, the vital contributions of women to the social and economic life of their nations became more visible. The new research also highlighted the unnecessary burdens borne by women and the obstacles preventing their full participation in society. More significantly, the Decade brought women together and provided them with unprecedented opportunities to exchange views and experiences. Women found that their shared concerns for their own future and for that of the human family enabled them to transcend national, class and racial boundaries.

In addition, the Decade catalyzed the revitalization of traditional women's organizations and the creation of new grassroots Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) addressing specific needs of women. These NGOs have facilitated an extensive networking among women, empowering them to articulate their needs, design their own programs, and begin affecting policy-making at all levels. As a result of efforts undertaken during the Decade, development planners have begun to address women's lack of access to resources such as education, technology and credit. United Nations agencies, national governments, and international development agencies have established divisions to address the needs and concerns of women.

These are significant achievements that must be greatly strengthened and expanded. Despite some progress, however, women remain on the fringes of policy making, and the systems which have traditionally oppressed them remain largely intact.

Taylor-Rubino

"(2) The Writings inspire the friends with a vision of what Bahá’u’lláh would like to have happen, and they become attracted to that vision. This in turn serves to prepare the believers for the teaching work. Meanwhile, the spiritual atmosphere acts upon the hearts of waiting souls, who are made ready to receive the Message.

"(3) The last, and critical, aspect of the process is the commitment to follow through with whatever is decided upon to make the vision a reality. The final stage is where many plans fail and the spiritual energy is dissipated.

"There are probably a number of Bahá’ís who yearn to teach, but are not quite sure how to get beyond the deepening and planning stages. The essential thing, I think, is to turn to Bahá’u’lláh and never stop asking for His help. Eventually He will guide everyone who does this to do his or her part in establishing His Kingdom.

"Once a teaching institute is fully under way its members will be able to learn from experience what the best teaching methods are, given their own situation. Over the last year we have noticed a few particular aspects of our work that we feel have contributed to the success of the project. Virtually all of them reflect the guidance given to us in the Writings and from the Institutions of the Faith. Other believers coming together to form teaching institutes may find these observations helpful:

"CHOOSE a 'target population' with whom to share the Message. During the Holy Year it would be crucial to take into account the present mandate from the National Spiritual Assembly to focus on bringing about interracial harmony. Once a specific group has been chosen, the next step is to make the Faith known to them. The key here is to act, not just plan. We have the promise that the doors of opportunity will then open: as ‘Abdu’l-Bahá said, 'Make a beginning, and all will be right.'

"THE teaching institute should make a long-term commitment to the souls they teach, expecting to be involved with one group for many years. We have found that nurturing new believers and communities must be undertaken slowly and patiently if they are ever to be strong enough to develop on their own. Remember the patience of the Master and the Guardian!

"Teach systematically. We have found that this saves energy and allows us to keep track of all our friends and contacts in an efficient manner. For example, it has been our practice to keep files listing the names of seekers along with such information as: who made the initial contact; materials in their possession which they have found beneficial; what setting they like to learn about the Faith in, such as at home or in a public place; and other people with whom they would like us to share the Faith. We are also developing our own teaching materials that will be specially adapted to local needs.

"Try to involve new believers in the institute, encouraging them to teach the Faith as soon as they feel ready. Each believer in Bahá’u’lláh is just as valid a teacher as another, regardless of experience or length of time in the Faith, as long as the heart has a real connection with the Blessed Beauty. It is interesting that many of our most energetic teachers have not yet signed their own declaration cards!

"Seek out the support of the Institutions of the Faith. We have a real coalition of Institutions offering us guidance right now, including the Auxiliary Board and two local Assemblies. It would be difficult to overestimate their contributions to our success.

"Strive for diversity in the Bahá’í teaching teams. We are the most well-received when a racially diverse group of believers goes visiting and teaching. It is only natural that if we teach racial harmony we should offer the world Bahá’í 'families' that exemplify this principle.

"Include youth and children as teachers, and teach youth and children, whenever possible. The youth are the most energetic and fearless teachers we have. Young people often find it easier to 'break the ice,' and young non-Bahá’ís are usually the most receptive to us.

"In some cases they find among their Bahá’í peers a greater sense of family and belonging than anywhere else. Also, it makes a great impression on adults to see young people who are morally upright and guided by high ideals.

"Consider the possibility of community service projects, which, besides being of real benefit to others, attract people to the Faith who admire its ideals of service to humanity.

"ANOTHER point worth mentioning is that the Blessed Beauty has different parts for all of us to play. Every group and every individual will end up manifesting His power in a unique manner. Although we learn from each others' experiences and are inspired by them, we must not become so rigid in our thinking about the 'proper' way to teach that we leave ourselves closed to Bahá’u’lláh’s guidance.

"In the end every teaching story is a personal experience of the transforming power of His love. We turn to Him, our hearts full of longing, fears and despair are wiped away, and healing and security are found. He re-creates us into instruments of His love and mercy, beings moved by His Will. This happens both to the teachers and the ones taught.

"I remember our first sight of the place where we were to begin the work that we are now committed to for the next 10 years. It was a park, filled with children and youth who were eagerly waiting for us, for Bahá’u’lláh’s love. And the waves of joyful reception, celebration and reunion that flowed out to us nearly carried us away, causing us to realize how much we had been waiting ourselves for such an experience.

"FROM then on, our prayers, our thoughts, our entire lives have revolved around the Blessed Beauty's presence in that neighborhood. Astounding developments have occurred and we know that we have only seen the 'tip of the iceberg' when it comes to the potential for future victories. For we now have the beginnings of a spiritual community guided and protected by the Covenant, and empowered to grow and flourish.

"One of the new believers there said recently, 'Could you stop so much of your service efforts (working in the children's park recreation program, etc.) and just tell everyone about Bahá’u’lláh? What we need is Bahá’u’lláh and a local Spiritual Assembly, and then we'll teach our own children's classes and start our own social and economic projects!'

"Crisis and victory are to be expected, and we have seen our share of both. But in this process we are witnessing the evolution of a community into a family—the kind of family that the whole world is yearning for, guided by divine principles and held together by divine love."

(Last summer the institute included a full-time teaching team of 12 youth who worked in several goal areas. The institute has been designated as a year of service post by the National Spiritual Assembly, which has expressed the hope that it will be one of the teaching projects that will begin the process of "entry by troops" in this country.)

Among the friends pictured at a recent meeting in Lansing, Michigan, are members of the Chan family, Chinese/Vietnamese believers who arrived in this country last December as refugees. Shortly after coming to the states they were contacted by the Bahá’ís of Lansing, who saw to it that they were invited to area functions. The family has taken part in Bahá’í classes, Holy Day celebrations and other activities, adding to the diversity and strength of the community. [Page 13]

STATION OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH

Guardian's penetrating essay provides insight, guidance

BY ROB STOCKMAN

Shoghi Effendi has asserted that "to strive to obtain a more adequate understanding of the significance of Bahá’u’lláh’s stupendous Revelation must, it is my unalterable conviction, remain the first obligation and the object of the constant endeavor of each one of its loyal adherents." (The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 100)

ONE OF the most important starting points for any exploration of the significance of Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation is the Guardian's essay, "The Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh," in which, in clear language and offering interpretations that only the Guardian of the Cause of God was empowered to set forth, Shoghi Effendi defined the nature and character of Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation. This essay, published in The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, pp. 97-157, is a must-read for every Bahá’í during the Holy Year.

To define Bahá’u’lláh’s station clearly, Shoghi Effendi decided that he had to define as well the stations of the Báb, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and the Administrative Order; by defining all of them, the Guardian was able to state clearly the differences between them and the uniqueness of each. Shoghi Effendi also had to explain the Bahá’í concept of God (p. 112) to make clear the distinction between Bahá’u’lláh and the "eternal Essence of Essences." Thus the "Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh" goes far beyond a mere statement of Bahá’u’lláh’s station.

But because of limitations of space, the station of Bahá’u’lláh is the only aspect of the "Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh" to be considered in this essay; subsequent essays will explore other sections of it. Shoghi Effendi divides his statement on Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation into two halves, which are clearly separated by a break in the text. The first half (pp. 99-112) discusses the uniqueness and greatness of Bahá’u’lláh relative to previous and future Manifestations of God and their Revelations.

Shoghi Effendi begins by commenting on certain prophecies of previous religions. The first, quoted by Bahá’u’lláh in the Kitáb-i-lqán, apparently comes from Muslim traditions: "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 World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 125)

SHOGHI Effendi then quotes the Báb extensively about how much greater will be the Revelation of "Him Whom God shall make manifest" [Bahá’u’lláh], compared to His own. In this way, the greatness of Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation compared to those of previous Manifestations is underscored.

The Guardian then turns to a Zoroastrian prophecy described in a tablet by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá: that in the Zoroastrian sacred books three separate Dispensations are mentioned, and that in the first the sun would remain motionless for 10 days; in the second it would remain motionless for 20 days; and in the third, it would remain motionless for an entire month.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá interprets the three dispensations as those of Muhammad, the Báb, and Bahá’u’lláh, and says the prophecy indicates that Bahá’u’lláh’s cycle will last the longest: "at least five hundred thousand years," the Master explains. Shoghi Effendi uses the prophecy to make several points: that it reiterates the divine origin and independent status of Islam, a Bahá’í teaching that western believers at that time had difficulty accepting; that it attests to the independent character of the Bábí dispensation; and that it underlines a principle of progressive revelation that each age has greater capacity and is more receptive to God's Revelation than the previous age.

The Guardian concludes that "the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh should indeed be regarded, if we wish to be faithful to the tremendous implications of its message, as the culmination of a cycle, the final stage in a series of successive, of preliminary and progressive revelations." (The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 103)

Having proclaimed Bahá’u’lláh’s greatness through prophecy, Shoghi Effendi then turns to the statements of Bahá’u’lláh Himself about His Revelation. The bulk of the first half (pp. 103-112) consists of quotations from Bahá’u’lláh, with relatively little commentary.

Shoghi Effendi does, however, introduce his compilation by noting that we should "direct our attention" to "the words that have streamed from His [Bahá’u’lláh’s] pen" if we wish to "obtain a clearer understanding" of the importance and meaning of Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation (The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 103).

THUS the significance of Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation is best understood through reading the Revelation itself. The themes that Shoghi Effendi chose to include were: the greatness of Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation; Bahá’u’lláh’s proclamation of Himself as the return of Christ; the fulfillment of the promises of the ages; the coming of the King of Days; the forces released by Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation; the superlative character of that Revelation; and the importance of Bahá’u’lláh’s new World Order. The first half then closes with a quote from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá about the greatness of Bahá’u’lláh and His Revelation.

The second half of Shoghi Effendi’s statement on the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh (The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, pp. 112-19) seeks to clarify any misunderstandings that could have resulted from the emphasis in the first half on the uniqueness and greatness of Bahá’u’lláh. The second half could be subtitled "words of warning," a phrase that Shoghi Effendi uses to start his second paragraph.

First, the Guardian notes that Bahá’u’lláh is not identical with God. He quotes Bahá’u’lláh as stating that God's unknowable essence "is immeasurably exalted beyond every human attribute such as corporeal existence, ascent and descent, egress and regress." (The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 113)

Second, Shoghi Effendi cautions that Bahá’u’lláh’s greatness and uniqueness should not be understood to invalidate the truths or divine guidance offered by previous religions. His statement about the relationship between Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation and the religions that went before it (p. 114) probably constitutes the definitive description that one can find in the Bahá’í writings.

Third, Shoghi Effendi strongly emphasizes that Bahá’u’lláh’s greatness and uniqueness should not be construed as suggesting that the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh is "the final revelation of God's will and purpose for mankind" (p. 115). Rather, the principle of progressive revelation, "the bedrock of Bahá’í belief" (p. 115) is that "religious truth is not absolute but relative, that Divine Revelation is orderly, continuous and progressive and not spasmodic or final." (p. 115)

The Guardian provides four pages of quotations from Bahá’u’lláh and the Báb that illustrate spiritual aspects of the principle of progressive revelation.

ONE CAN readily see how an emphasis on Bahá’u’lláh’s uniqueness and greatness could lead to such misunderstandings as those the Guardian cautions against. The uniqueness of Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation is a topic that is understood but dimly; as Shoghi Effendi notes, "an exact and thorough comprehension of so vast a system, so sublime a revelation, so sacred a trust, is for obvious reasons beyond the reach and ken of our finite minds." (The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 100)

Yet it remains our duty—especially in this Holy Year—to meditate on the words of Bahá’u’lláh, the Báb, and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, and the interpretations of the Guardian, and thereby strive to improve our grasp of the nature of Bahá’u’lláh’s sublime and wondrous Revelation.

As a compilation of the Word and a commentary on it, "The Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh remains a matchless source for such meditation and study.

Partnership

systems adhere to the pattern of domination that has characterized society for thousands of years: men have dominated women; one racial or ethnic group has dominated another; and nation has dominated nation.

Notwithstanding humanity's reluctance to change, "the balance is already shifting" according to the Bahá’í Writings, "force is losing its weight and mental alertness, intuition, and the spiritual qualities of love and service, in which woman is strong, are gaining ascendancy. Hence the new age will be an age less masculine, and more permeated with the feminine ideals—or, to speak more exactly, will be an age in which the masculine and feminine elements of civilization will be more evenly balanced."

While women must develop their capacities and step forward to play an active role in solving the world's problems, the impact of their actions will be limited without the full cooperation of men. Women working together in unity and harmony have already achieved a great deal within the spheres of influence open to them. Now women must come together with men as equal partners. When men lend their full support to this process, welcoming women into all fields of human endeavor, valuing their contributions, and encouraging their participation, men and women together will help create the moral and psychological climate in which peace can emerge and an environmentally sustainable civilization can advance and flourish.

The transformation required for true equality will undoubtedly be difficult for both men and women because both must re-evaluate what is familiar, what is routine. Blame must be relinquished because no individual can be faulted for having been shaped by historical, sociological forces. Guilt must be shed in favor of responsibility for growth. In the face of profound challenges facing humanity, all are accountable for recognizing that the old model no longer works, and all will be answerable to future generations for their stewardship of human civilization and its relationship to the earth.

Change, however, is an evolutionary process requiring patience with one's self and others, loving education and the passage of time. The transition will be eased when men realize that they will be unable to achieve their full potential as long as women are prevented from attaining theirs. Indeed, when men actively promote the principle of equality, women will no longer have to struggle for their rights. Gradually, both women and men will discard long-held unhealthy attitudes and progressively incorporate into their lives the values conducive to true unity.

IN THE OPINION of the Bahá’í International Community, the emerging world civilization will be sustained by a common commitment to a new set of values, a shared understanding of the balance between rights and responsibilities, and a willingness on the part of each to serve the best interests of humanity as a whole. For Bahá’ís, the commitment to the emancipation of women is not a recent development nor is equality of the sexes a vague ideal. It is our conviction that the unification of the human race depends on establishing the equality of men and women. Humanity, the Bahá’í Writings explain, having passed through the stages of infancy, childhood and turbulent adolescence, is now approaching maturity, a stage that will witness "the reconstruction of the whole civilized world—a world organically unified in all the essential aspects of its life."

AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í COMMUNITY Agenda for the Holy Year

1. Orient our Feasts, Bahá’í schools, our gatherings large and small, arts and music, and our study of the Bahá’í Writings to a deeper appreciation of the station and Person of Bahá’u’lláh and the meaning of His Revelation.

2. Direct our proclamation and teaching activities toward helping people understand Who Bahá’u’lláh is and what He teaches.

3. Arrange activities to celebrate and reflect on the Covenant, focusing on the life of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá as Its embodiment.

4. Intensify individual and community efforts for spiritual growth, paying particular attention to heightening the qualities of joy and love in the Nineteen Day Feast. [Page 14]

NOTICIAS DEL MUNDO BAHÁ’Í

AUSTRALIA

Juez lee de los Escritos Sagrados en un Servicio para lanzar Semana del Refugiado

El Honorable Marcus Einfeld Q.C., Juez del Tribunal Federal, y la sra. Bobbie D’Art, Directora Nacional de Austcare (Cuidado Australiano para Refugiados), se encontraban entre los que leyeron de los Escritos de Bahá’u’lláh durante un servicio para lanzar la Semana del Refugiado realizado en la Casa de Adoración Bahá’í el 21 de junio.

El Honorable Einfeld dio un discurso conmovedor sobre el estado de los refugiados en el mundo y sus súplicas de ayuda a las 400 personas que asistieron. Los visitantes e invitados alabaron a los Bahá’ís por el servicio y por la presentación del coro Bahá’í. Todos los invitados especiales de la Asamblea Nacional recibieron el enunciado sobre Bahá’u’lláh. (Informe de la Asamblea Espiritual Nacional)

BANGLADESH

Participación de todo Corazón de todo Bahá’í asegura éxito de los Planes

La comunidad Bahá’í pequeña pero vibrante y activa de Rajshahi ha probado una vez más que el progreso de la Causa de Dios nunca se impide por la escasez de número de los creyentes. La Asamblea Espiritual Nacional hizo la decisión de conmemorar la Ascensión de Bahá’u’lláh de una manera digna durante el Año Santo. El programa planificado se dividió en dos partes. El 27 de Mayo debía haber una reunión de prensa en un restaurante local, y el 29 de Mayo debía realizarse un seminario público sobre Bahá’u’lláh.

Una vez se hicieron las decisiones, todos los amigos se levantaron para hacer que estos programas ambiciosos fueran un éxito. Todos participaron en la consulta y tomaron en serio sus responsabilidades asignadas. La reunión de prensa atrajo a representantes de todos los diarios nacionales importantes, al igual que periodistas y reporteros de periódicos, emisoras de radio y estaciones de televisión locales, y hasta un representante del Departamento de Información de Prensa del Gobierno. Un joven conferencista Bahá’í se dirigió a los representantes de los medios de comunicación y hubo un reportaje amplio y positivo en los periódicos locales en los días siguientes.

El seminario sobre “Bahá’u’lláh y el Nuevo Orden Mundial” se realizó en el auditorio de la Biblioteca Pública. Se colocaron afiches anunciando el seminario en todo el pueblo y unas 800 tarjetas de invitación fueron repartidas por los amigos. El invitado principal era un profesor de la Universidad de Rajshahi. El recordó una visita que había hecho a la Casa de Adoración de Wilmette hacia unos 30 años y dijo que aquella visita le había imbuido con una idea positiva sobre la Fe. Un miembro de la Asamblea Nacional se dirigió a la audiencia del seminario y ofreció a la comunidad mundial Bahá’í como ejemplo de unidad y espiritualidad y pidió a los participantes investigarla por sí mismos.

Es de notar que “todos y cada uno de los Bahá’ís participaron de todo corazón de una forma u otra” para ayudar con estos eventos. Los afiches siguen proclamando la Fe luego de los eventos. “La gente sigue llegando al Centro Bahá’í preguntando sobre la Fe, diciendo que la conocieron por primera vez a través de los afiches”. (Informe del Cuerpo Continental de Consejeros)

BELICE

Primer Ministro cordialmente recibe Delegación Bahá’í

El Primer Ministro, Sr. George Price, cordialmente recibió una delegación Bahá’í el 21 de Abril y se le presentó el Enunciado sobre Bahá’u’lláh, las enseñanzas ‎Bahá’is Bahá’ís‎ y la relación de la Fe con el Cristianismo. También él expresó su aprecio a los Bahá’ís por darle noticias del Año Santo. La delegación estuvo compuesta por 2 miembros de la Asamblea Nacional y un Oficial de Información Pública para la Fe en Belice. (Informe de la Asamblea Espiritual Nacional)

ETIOPIA

Dos mil personas asisten a reuniones públicas en Addis Ababa

Las emisoras de radio y las estaciones de televisión “reverberaban con el nombre de Bahá’u’lláh” todos los días durante una semana en Addis Ababa. Estaban ofreciendo invitaciones a las tres reuniones públicas realizadas en la Ciudad el 30 de Mayo para conmemorar el Centenario de la Ascensión de Bahá’u’lláh.

Unas 2000 personas asistieron a las reuniones, la más grande de las cuales se realizó en un edificio moderno con facilidades de lujo. Durante cada programa, tres panelistas y un coordinador dirigían las charlas que se centraban en la historia, las enseñanzas y la Misión de Bahá’u’lláh.

En la noche antes de los eventos, un periodista dio un resumen comprensivo de las bases de la Fe por televisión, acompañado de fotografías a colores de los Santuarios, de la Sede de la Casa Universal de Justicia y de todos los Templos ‎Bahá’is Bahá’ís‎. Además un programa de variedades bisemanal por televisión mostró la introducción musical a un video Bahá’í titulado “La Paz Mundial”. Ingresó una ‎personas persona‎ luego de una de las charlas públicas y “han comenzado a inundarnos” las cartas preguntando sobre la Fe. (Informe de la Asamblea Espiritual Nacional)

ALEMANIA

Los Bahá’ís de lo que se conocía como Alemania Oriental y Occidental se reúnen para Seminario

En cumplimiento de una esperanza de que “los amigos de los dos ex-estados de Alemania Oriental y Occidental llegaran a conocerse mejor y crecieran juntos”, se reunieron aproximadamente 50 creyentes de toda Alemania del 3 al 8 de Junio en un castillo de más de 300 años de antigüedad en Saxony. El Seminario se centró en aspectos del Año Santo. El Consejero Continental y 2 miembros del Cuerpo Auxiliar dieron charlas que fueron seguidas por discusiones y talleres. “La consulta dentro de los grupos de trabajo se realizó en un espíritu de unidad”, según se informó. Los amigos pasearon por el campo, proveyeron unos a otros con entretenimiento en las noches y en general compartieron “mucha risa”. (Informe de los participantes)

MAURICIO

Primer Ministro se dirige a Eventos de Conmemoración Pública

“Es un gran placer para mí el estar con ustedes esta tarde para señalar la Conmemoración Centenaria del Fallecimiento del Fundador de la Fe Bahá’í. Uno que le ha dado al mundo una firme base espiritual para realizar la unidad y la paz entre la raza humana”, declaró el sr. Anerood Jugnaugh, Primer Ministro de Mauricio, mientras se dirigía a la conmemoración pública de la Ascensión de Bahá’u’lláh realizada en la Universidad de Mauricio el 17 de Junio.

El Ministro de Artes y Cultura también se dirigió a la reunión, que tuvo asistencia de 700 personas incluyendo a alcaldes y otros distinguidos invitados. Las emisoras de radio y las estaciones de televisión nacionales dieron amplio reportaje al evento en sus programas de noticias principales. (Informe de la Asamblea Nacional)

TAIWAN

Se proclama la Fe a educadores y administradores de Educación

El Dr. Glen Eyford, un educador Bahá’í de Canadá, recibió invitación de la Asamblea Nacional para visitar Taiwan y para proclamar la Fe a gente trabajando en educación y en los ministerios responsables de la educación.

Del 21 al 23 de Mayo el Dr. Eyford fue recibido por el Ministerio de Educación, el decano de la Escuela Graduada de Educación en la Universidad Nacional de Chengchi, el presidente de la Escuela Normal Nacional de Taipei, quien expresó el deseo de que los Bahá’ís trabajaran de cerca con él en proyectos sobre educación moral, y el director de un Departamento del Concejo para Planificación y Desarrollo Cultural.

REINO UNIDO

El lugar de Descanso del Guardián es escena de eventos de Conmemoración

“El comienzo gris y lluvioso del día de la Conmemoración de la Ascensión de Bahá’u’lláh, el 29 de Mayo”, no detuvo a los casi 2500 miembros de la comunidad británica y muchos del extranjero en asistir a la reunión histórica en el lugar de descanso del Bienamado Guardián. Se puso a disposición de los Bahá’ís la capilla de descanso en el terreno del cementerio para el día completo y allí se exhibieron varias reliquias sagradas asociadas con Bahá’u’lláh, incluyendo una manta, un par de pantuflas y trozos de Su cabello. Cada visitante que pasaba por la capilla recibía unos pétalos, recogidos de las flores en el lugar de descanso del Guardián, como recuerdo del día. Un miembro de la Asamblea Nacional dio apertura al evento con palabras de bienvenida, describiendo el significado del día en este Año Santo. Luego de la bienvenida niños de todas las escuelas Thomas Breakwell cantaron la canción “Quién es Bahá’u’lláh?”. Luego los niños tuvieron una visita especial a las reliquias Sagradas y escucharon historias sobre Bahá’u’lláh.

Se leyeron las oraciones y lecturas escogidas para los eventos conmemorativos por la Casa Universal de Justicia, lecturas hechas por los representantes de todas partes del Reino Unido. La Tumba del Guardián se cubrió de flores; miles de rosas rojas rodaron al zócalo, entre éstas hubo seis arreglos presentados a pedido de los ‎Bahá’is Bahá’ís‎ de Irán y otros ‎pausaste países‎ en el medio Oriente. (Informe del Bahá’í Journal del Reino Unido)

ESTADOS UNIDOS

Doscientos Bahá’ís asisten a Conferencia de Estudios Bahá’ís en Maryland

“Renacimiento global: El significado de la revelación de Bahá’u’lláh” fue el título de una conferencia realizada en la Universidad de Western Maryland en el estado de Maryland, del 3 al 5 de Abril. La reunión fue organizada por el Comité Regional del Atlántico Central de la Asociación de Estudios Bahá’ís.

Asistieron al evento aproximadamente 200 personas de 16 estados y hubo una gran gama de conferencistas y artistas de todo tipo. Hubo entre las presentaciones formales charlas sobre “La Posición de Bahá’u’lláh”, “El Renacimiento Espiritual en la Arquitectura”, “El Papel del Individuo en la Transformación de la Sociedad, entre otros. (Informe de la Asociación de Estudios Bahá’ís)

NOTICIAS BREVES

Costa Rica Los Bahá’ís de ciudad Colón realizaron la primera celebración Bahá’í en el País del Día Mundial del Ambiente el 5 de Junio en la escuela pública local. Una creyente recién ingresada quien es trabajadora social del área, coordinó la reunión. Asistieron más de 60 personas y todas recibieron copia de un folleto especialmente preparado “La Relación entre el Hombre y la Naturaleza”.

Islas Malvinas Se realizó una exhibición Bahá’í muy exitosa en la escuela intermedia en Stanley en Enero. Se montaron paneles mostrando la historia y los principios de la Fe, la revelación progresiva, las Casas de Adoración y el Centro Mundial Bahá’í. Los visitantes podían ver videos sobre la Conferencia de la paz en San Francisco y sobre el Centro Mundial. La emisora de radio local transmitió una extensa entrevista con uno de los amigos y el periódico publicó una serie de fotografías.

Australia Se encontraban jóvenes aborígenes, chinos y africanos ‎entro entre‎ los 91 participantes en el Campamento Juvenil Estatal realizado en Australia Occidental, del 3 al 5 de Julio. La energía espiritual generada por el miembro del Cuerpo Auxiliar, el representante del Comité Nacional de Jóvenes, y los jóvenes a la vanguardia del servicio a la Causa inspiró a los allí presentes a dedicar aún más sus vidas a Bahá’u’lláh.

Mozambique Extractos del video de la conmemoración del Centenario de la Ascensión de Bahá’u’lláh en Tierra Santa se transmitieron en el boletín de noticias de la tarde para la estación de televisión central en Maputo el 14 de Junio. Esta es la primera vez que se menciona la Fe en las noticias de la televisión.

Guinea Ecuatorial La religión es asignatura obligatoria en este País, con calificación como cualquier otra. En Bata, mayormente por los esfuerzos de los estudiantes Bahá’ís, su escuela reconoció la Fe como religión independiente. Debido a esto, las clases religiosas actualmente se dan en el Centro Bahá’í y los estudiantes se examinan regularmente en el tema, informando los resultados de sus exámenes al director de la escuela.

Chicago, Ill. Durante el fin de semana de Agosto 21, 22 y 23 se realizó en el Centro Bahá’í de Chicago una exitosa Conferencia para Chinos en Mandarín. El programa se centró en la persona de Bahá’u’lláh y los conferencistas tocaron diferentes aspectos sobre Su vida, Su Revelación y el papel de China en el avance de la Causa. Paralelamente hubo un estudio en inglés sobre la forma de enseñar a la comunidad china. [Page 15]

Significance of completing remaining buildings of the Arc

By Keyvan Nazerian

In a letter of August 1987 to the followers of Bahá’u’lláh throughout the world, the Universal House of Justice makes this statement:

“Nigh on one hundred years ago, Bahá’u’lláh walked on God’s Holy Mountain and revealed the Tablet of Carmel, the Charter for the World Center of His Faith, calling into being the metropolis of the Kingdom of God on Earth.”

FOLLOWING is a passage from the Tablet of Carmel:

“Call out to Zion, O Carmel, and announce the joyful tidings: He that was hidden from mortal eyes is come! His all-conquering sovereignty is manifest; His all-encompassing splendor is revealed. Beware lest thou hesitate or halt. Hasten forth and circumambulate the City of God that hath descended from heaven, the celestial Kaaba round which have circled in adoration the favored of God, the pure in heart, and the company of the most exalted angels. Oh, how I long to announce unto every spot on the surface of the earth, and to carry to each one of its cities, the glad-tidings of this Revelation—a Revelation to which the heart of Sinai hath been attracted, and in whose name the Burning Bush is calling: ‘Unto God, the Lord of Lords, belong the kingdoms of earth and heaven.’ Verily this is the Day in which both land and sea rejoice at this announcement, the Day for which have laid up those things which God, through a bounty beyond the ken of mortal mind or heart, hath destined for revelation. Ere long will God sail His Ark upon thee, and will manifest the people of Bahá who have been mentioned in the Book of Names.”

The evolution of the administrative institutions of the Faith at the World Center was masterfully described by Shoghi Effendi, the Guardian of the Bahá’í Faith. These divinely appointed institutions drew their origin from the Manifestation of God Himself, through the revelation of the Tablet of Carmel, and were gradually brought into being through the arduous efforts of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and the Guardian. They are now passing through a significant stage of their evolution under the guidance of the Universal House of Justice.

This historic process began during one of Bahá’u’lláh’s visits to the city of Haifa, when the Blessed Beauty revealed the Tablet of Carmel and also left specific instructions with ‘Abdu’l-Bahá regarding the location where the holy remains of the Báb were to be deposited and His mausoleum erected. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá then began the enormous task of acquiring the needed land, beautifying the surroundings, and building the initial stages of the Shrine of the Báb. These victories were hard-won—many were accomplished at a time when ‘Abdu’l-Bahá was still legally a prisoner; moreover, obstacles were placed at every turn by those who had broken the Covenant and by other enemies of the Faith.

WORK ON the Shrine was continued by the Guardian, who completed the building in 1953. He also built the shrines of the Greatest Holy Leaf, her brother the Purest Branch, and their beloved mother, as the focal point of that “far flung arc” where the future world-embracing institutions of the Faith were to be built.

The first of these institutions to be constructed was the International Archives Building, completed in 1957. On the occasion of acquiring the last necessary piece of land for the Archives, the Guardian sent a message to the Bahá’ís hailing that victory as a sudden acceleration in the progress of a divinely-ordained process, “vast and irresistible,” and “unexampled in the history of mankind.” He stated that that same process, which “will synchronize with two no less significant developments—the establishment of the Lesser Peace and the evolution of Bahá’í national and local institutions—the one outside and the other within the Bahá’í world—will attain its final consummation, in the Golden Age of the Faith, through the raising of the standard of the Most Great Peace, and the emergence, in the plenitude of its power and glory, of the focal Center of the agencies constituting the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh.”

THE GUARDIAN also placed the completion of this process in historical perspective:

“The final establishment of this seat of the future Bahá’í World Commonwealth will signalize at once the proclamation of the sovereignty of the Founder of our Faith and the advent of the Kingdom of the Father repeatedly lauded and promised by Jesus Christ.”

Shoghi Effendi often referred to the World Center as the heart and at the same time the nerve center of the entire body of the community of the Greatest Name. The history of the Faith offers many examples that illustrate this organic, this mutual, and this salutary and beneficial link.

Every move to expand the institutions of the Faith at the World Center, and every effort to improve the facilities and beautify their surroundings, has always been accompanied by a corresponding forward march of the Bahá’í community in the rest of the world. The Universal House of Justice vividly describes this phenomenon:

“The great work of constructing the terraces, landscaping and their surroundings, and erecting the remaining buildings of the Arc will bring into being a vastly augmented World Center structure which will be capable of meeting the challenges of the coming centuries and of the tremendous growth of the Bahá’í community which the beloved Guardian has told us to expect. Already we see the effect of the spiritual energies which the completion of the Seat of the Universal House of Justice has released, and the new impulse this has given to the advancement of the Faith. Who can gauge what transformation will be effected as a result of the completion of each successive stage of this great enterprise?”

The foundation for the steps of the King’s Path to the Shrine of the Báb is seen in this photograph taken in July. The foundations will be covered with beautifully finished stone before the Mount Carmel project is completed. To the left of the wall of the Shrine, the underground storage building is under construction. (Photo by Ruhi Vargha)

Let us briefly look at those institutions that will make up the Arc.

The International Archives Building was the first of these structures to be built on Mount Carmel. The origin of the institution that is housed in this beautiful edifice goes back to the early days of the Faith when the Greatest Holy Leaf, through sacrificial and painstaking effort, undertook the task of collecting the holy objects associated with the Central Figures of the Faith, also gathering Their authentic Writings. This task was continued and expanded by the Guardian.

The institution of the Archives maintains a vital link between the lives of the Twin Manifestations of God and the entire Bahá’í world, providing to them and all humanity a source of spiritual sustenance. Thus this institution, which is unique in religious history, will, by preserving the authentic Writings and relics of the Manifestations of God, help to safeguard the unity of the Cause of God in this Dispensation. Significant additions to the Archives Building are now under way.

The Seat of the Universal House of Justice was completed and occupied in 1983, 20 years after the establishment of the Supreme Institution. While the House of Justice is an elected body, let us remind ourselves that it is fundamentally a Divinely-appointed institution whose members are chosen through a spiritual process by which the friends supplicate God’s assistance. To expand on this issue, the Bahá’ís of the world did not merely establish the House of Justice; they were in fact taking part in a process whereby an institution preordained by Bahá’u’lláh was brought into being, precisely 100 years after the declaration of His Mission.

THE THREE buildings that remain to be completed will house the International Teaching Center, the Center for the Study of the Sacred Texts, and the International Library. All three institutions are already functioning in other facilities at the World Center.

Upon the establishment of the International Teaching Center in 1973 the Universal House of Justice sent the following message to the world:

“Announce establishment Holy Land long anticipated International Teaching Center destined evolve into one those world-shaking world-embracing world-directing institutions ordained by Bahá’u’lláh anticipated by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá elucidated by Shoghi Effendi. Membership in this nascent ‎insitution institution‎ comprises all Hands Cause God and initially three Counselors who with Hands present Holy Land will constitute nucleus its vital operations.”

The House of Justice further defined the responsibilities of the International Teaching Center:

“To coordinate, stimulate and direct the activities of the Continental Boards of Counselors and act as liaison between them and the Universal House of Justice,

“To be fully informed of the situation of the Cause in all parts of the world and to be able, from the background of this knowledge, to make reports and recommendations to the Universal House of Justice and give advice to the Continental Board of Counselors;

“To be alert to possibilities, both within and without the Bahá’í community, for the extension of the teaching work into receptive or needy areas, and to draw the attention of the Universal House of Justice and the Continental Boards of Counselors to such possibilities, making recommendations for their action;

“To determine and anticipate needs for literature, pioneers and traveling teachers and to work out teaching plans, both regional and global, for the approval of the Universal House of Justice.”

SINCE ITS establishment the International Teaching Center has become a great source of guidance for the Boards of Counselors and the entire Bahá’í community, significantly reinforcing the activities of the House of Justice.

The International Library will maintain all published literature on the Faith and, as a center for scientific and cultural knowledge, will provide the House of Justice with information on world conditions and the needs of contemporary society. The Center for the Study of the Sacred Texts will make available fully researched pas-

See ARC page 18 [Page 16]

تذکری درباره رفتار با ناقضان

COVENANT BREAKERS

چنانچه یاران در محل کنگره جهانی بهائی با ناقضان عهد و پیمان یا هوادارانشان روبرو شوند، باید اعتنائی به آنان ننمایند. دوستان باید از این افراد بر کنار باشند و وقار و آرامش خود را حفظ کنند و به هیچ وجه نگذارند که با آنان گفتگو یا بحث کنند. همچنین نباید بگذارند که تحریکات ناقضان باعث شود که برخوردی با آنان داشته باشند.

کنسرت همزمان با کنگره جهانی

CONCERT AT CARNEGIE HALL IN NEW YORK

ساعت ۲:۳۰ دقیقه بعد از ظهر روز یکشنبه ۲۲ نوامبر سال جاری کنسرتى به مناسبت دومین کنگره جهانی بهائی در تالار کارنگی هال نیویورک برگزار خواهد شد. این کنسرت روز قبل از آغاز کنگره برگزار خواهد شد و عنوان آن "بزرگداشت چشم انداز صلح جهانی از دیدگاه بهائی" خواهد بود.

چند تن از نوازندگان و خوانندگانی که شهرت جهانی دارند در این کنسرت‌ها شرکت خواهند داشت:

کلیولند کوارتت Cleveland Quartet که یکی از معروف‌ترین گروه‌های مجلسی آمریکاست، به همراه دیوید شیفرین David Shifrin یکی از آثار موتزارت را — کوینتت برای سازهای زهی و کلارینت — اجراء خواهند کرد.

ویولون‌نواز ۲۰ سالۀ بهائی ولی فیلیپس Vali Philips ویولن اول ارکستر سمفونی یکی از هنرکده‌های راچستر Rochester در ایالت نیویورک است و در مسابقات موسیقی جایزه‌های گوناگونی دریافت داشته است. این هنرمند بهائی برنامه‌ای اجرا خواهد کرد و همچنین اعضای گروه بهائی اجرا خواهند کرد.

نوازندگان پیانو یوجین ایستومین Eugene Istomin و بایرون یانیس Byron Janis که بیش از ۲۵ سال است که در کشورهای گوناگون جهان کنسرت اجرا کرده‌اند، برنامه‌هایی اجراء خواهند کرد.

تاتیانا ترویانس Tatiana Troyanos و بنینا والنته Benita Valente هر دو از خوانندگان معروف و محبوب اپرای متروپالیتن Metropolitan Opera نیویورک‌اند و در اپراهای گوناگون در سراسر جهان برنامه داشته‌اند.

خوانندۀ باریتون، نورمن بیلی Norman Bailey یکی از معروف‌ترین هنرمندان بهائی است و در اپرای متروپالیتن و دیگر اپراها برنامه اجرا کرده است.

لازم به یادآوری است که این هنرمندان خدمات خود را مجاناً تقدیم کرده‌اند و از بابت آن پولی دریافت نخواهند کرد.

شرکت‌کنندگان در کنگره جهانی با حضور در این کنسرت فرصت خواهند یافت که از تالار کارنگی در صدمین سال افتتاح آن دیدن کنند.

قیمت بلیط از ۱۲ تا ۴۵ دلار است و می‌توان آن را اول نوامبر پیش خرید کرد. در اینصورت بلیط‌ها مستقیماً از طریق پست فرستاده خواهد شد. علاقمندان می‌توانند چک خود را در وجه Bahá’í Classical Concert ارسال دارند. دفتر کنگره جهانی از قبول وجه نقد و کارت اعتباری برای خرید بلیط کنسرت معذور است. ورقه سفارش بلیط در صفحۀ ۵ این نشریه درج شده است.

در صورتی که یاران مایل باشند از کارت‌های اعتباری خود برای خرید بلیط استفاده کنند، می‌توانند با دفتر کارنگی هال مستقیماً تماس حاصل نمایند. تلفن: ۷۸۰۰-۲۴۷ (۲۱۲).

یادآوری می‌شود که از آنجا که ظرفیت سالن کنسرت — و در نتیجه تعداد بلیط‌ها — محدود است، بهتر است که علاقه‌مندان به شرکت در این کنسرت‌ها هر چه زودتر بلیط خود را خریداری نمایند.

سفرهای تبلیغی

TRAVELING TEACHING OPPORTUNITIES

برگزاری کنگره جهانی بهائی امکانات تبلیغی کم‌سابقه‌ای برای جوامع امری این سرزمین به وجود آورده است. بسیاری از یاران با دفتر لجنۀ ملی نشر نفحات تماس حاصل کرده و آمادگی خود را برای تقدیم کمک به جوامع محلی اظهار داشته‌اند. همچنین احبائی که از دیگر نقاط جهان برای شرکت در کنگره جهانی به ایالات متحده می‌آیند، تمایل خود را برای شرکت در فعالیت‌های تبلیغی در این کشور بازگو کرده‌اند.

حضرت ولی عزیز امرالله در یکی از بیانات مبارک هدف از سفرهای تبلیغی را به این مضمون یادآوری فرموده‌اند که مبلغان سیار باید به تکمیل فعالیت‌هایی که از پیش در محل آغاز شده است بپردازند و به جای شروع فعالیت‌های فردی، کوشش‌های تبلیغی جاری را تحکیم بخشند. وظیفۀ این مبلغان آن است که با همکاری صمیمانه، نه با اعتقاد به اینکه از یک حق روحانی ذاتی برخوردارند، به تشویق افراد احباء مبادرت جویند و چشم‌انداز آنان را در رابطه با وظائفی که بر عهده دارند، گسترش دهند.

برای کمک به نظم بخشیدن به سفرهای تشویقی و تبلیغی یاران و در نظر گرفتن نیازهای جوامع امری یک شبکۀ ناحیه‌ای مسؤولان مبلغان سیار ایجاد شده است. این مسؤولان در صورت آگاهی از سفرهای تشویقی یاران با محافل روحانی محل تماس خواهند گرفت و امور مربوط به جلسات یاران را ترتیب خواهند داد.

جوامعی که مستقیماً با یکی از مبلغان سیار در تماس باشند، باید با محفل روحانی ملی تماس حاصل نمایند تا از چگونگی اوضاع اداری مبلغان آگاهی حاصل کنند.

دوستانی که مایل باشند به سفرهای تبلیغی و تشویقی مبادرت نمایند و همچنین جوامعی که بخواهند از خدمات مبلغان سیار استفاده کنند، می‌توانند برای کسب اطلاعات بیشتر با مسؤول مبلغان سیار National Traveling Teaching Coordinator خانم لورا سسنا Laura Cessna در دفتر لجنۀ ملی نشر نفحات تماس حاصل نمایند. تلفن: ۸۶۹-۹۰۳۹ (۷۰۸) داخلی ۲۳۲.

انجمن ادب و فرهنگ ایرانی

PERSIAN ARTS AND CULTURE ASSOCIATION

چنانچه در شمارۀ گذشتۀ این نشریه اعلام شد، سومین کنفرانس انجمن ادب و فرهنگ ایرانی در سالن اجتماعات دوبوز Dubose در شهر مانت ایگل Monteagle در ایالت تنسی تشکیل خواهد شد. نزدیک‌ترین فرودگاه‌های آن منطقه در شهرهای چاتانوگا Chattanooga و نشویل Nashville قرار دارد. اطلاعات مربوط به محل اقامت و مخارج آن در شماره‌های آینده به آگاهی دوستان خواهد رسید.

برگ ثبت‌نام کنفرانس انجمن ادب و فرهنگ ایرانی

Registration Form

نام و نام‌خانوادگی: ........................................................................................

نشانی: .......................................................................................................

....................................................................................................................

شماره تلفن: (کار) ................................ (منزل) ................................

وجه ثبت‌نام:

( ) یکنفر ۱۵ دلار      ( ) خانوادۀ دو نفری ۲۵ دلار      ( ) خانوادۀ سه نفری به بالا ۳۰ دلار

نام دیگر شرکت کنندگان:

۱. ...................................................... ۲. ......................................................

۳. ...................................................... ۴. ......................................................

۵. ...................................................... ۶. ......................................................

شماره چک پرداختی: ..................................... لطفاً چک‌ها را در وجه Bahá’í National Fund صادر و همراه با برگ ثبت‌نام به نشانی ذیل ارسال فرمائید:

Persian/American Affairs Office Bahá’í National Center Wilmette, IL. 60091

حقوق الله

از دوستان عزیز مستدعی است تقدیمی‌های حقوق‌الله را در وجه Bahá’í Huququ’lláh Trust به نشانی یکی از امنای حقوق‌الله 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 17]

حضرت بهاء‌الله در ادرنه

BAHA’U’LLAH IN ADRIANOPLE

حضرت بهاء‌الله و همراهانشان در اول رجب سال ۱۲۸۰ هجری قمری مطابق با ۱۲ دسامبر سال ۱۸۶۳، در قلب یکی از سردترین زمستان‌ها وارد ادرنه شدند. حضرت ولی امرالله در توقیع نوروز ۱۰۱ می‌فرمایند: "در مدینۀ کبیره [اسلامبول] خلیفۀ اسلام و دو وزیر اعظمش عالی و فؤاد و وکلای ملّت با سفیر عجم متّفق و پس از چهار ماه اقامت در آن مدینه [اسلامبول] جمال موعود را با آل و اصحاب مرّةً أُخریٰ به ذلّت کبری در موسم زمستان به سجن بعید [ادرنه] در خلف جبال در قطعۀ روملی سرگون نمودند."

یکی از همراهان حضرت بهاء‌الله در بین راه اسلامبول به ادرنه عدّه‌ای را دیده بود که یخ زده بودند. در ادرنه گفته می‌شد که چنین سرمائی در ۴۰ سال گذشته سابقه نداشته است. یک شب در اطاق حضرت بهاء‌الله با اینکه بخاری می‌سوخت تنگ آب یخ زده بود. بدین ترتیب معلوم است که هیکل مبارک و همراهان چه سختی‌هائی را تاب آوردند.

اما دشواری‌های ظاهری در مقایسه با مخالفت‌های میرزا یحیی ناچیز بود. در توقیع نوروز ۱۰۱ حضرت ولی امرالله در این باره می‌فرمایند: "... در سنین اولیۀ ورود جمال ابهی به ارض سرّ [ادرنه] مطلع اعراض و منبع اغماض یحیی بی‌حیا که به شهادت قلم اعلی در ابداع شبه این نفس در حبّ ریاست و جاه دیده نشده... حجاب را دفعةً بدرید و چون حیۀ رقطاء جمال ابهی را بگزید... و به خلافت مجعوله متمسّک گشت و بر نفسی که خلافت و ولایت و رسالت و ما فوق آن به اشارۀ اصبعش تحقّق یافته به محاربه قیام کرد... به تحریک و دلالت آن وسواس خنّاس [سید محمد اصفهانی] ناقض عهد جمال علی‌اعلیٰ علم اختلاف را بر افراخت و هیکل اعزّ ابهیٰ را مسموم نمود و یکی از خدّام را بر قتل مظهر معبود بگماشت."

حضرت اعلیٰ میرزا یحیی را تا ظهور مَنْ يُظْهِرُهُ الله بعنوان رهبر ظاهری جامعۀ بابی معین فرموده بودند. از زمانی که حضرت بهاء‌الله از سلیمانیه باز گشتند، میرزا یحیی در خفا به سر می‌برد و برای حفظ جان به حلّه و بصره پناهنده می‌شد. هنگامی که با لباس مبدّل به بصره فرار کرد، بعنوان یک نفر یهودی بغدادی به کفش فروشی مشغول شد و بقدری هراسناک بود که به پیروانش گفته بود که هر کس مدعی شود که او را دیده است، تکفیر خواهد شد. در زمان حرکت حضرت بهاء‌الله به اسلامبول، در ابتدا در باغی در حوالی بغداد پنهان شد و، بدون توجه به رأی مبارک که امر فرموده بودند برای انتشار آثار حضرت اعلی عازم ایران شود، به قافلۀ مهاجران که به سوی اسلامبول رهسپار بودند، ملحق شد.

روزی حضرت بهاء‌الله در بیرون خانه رو به همراهان نمودند و با انگشتان خود به یکی از درختان اشاره فرمودند و اظهار داشتند مرغی که روی این شاخه نشسته است این کلمات را سه بار خواند "محمد آمد، بلا آمد". به زودی دانسته شد که اشارۀ حضرت بهاء‌الله به سید محمد اصفهانی بوده است.

سید محمد اصفهانی به همراهی میرزا احمد کاشانی شروع به خیانت و نافرمانی کردند. میرزا یحیی که در اثر معاشرت پیوسته با سید محمد به کلی فاسد شده بود، به تحریک او برای تجدید خلافت خیالی و ریاست از دست رفته‌اش به دست و پا افتاد. بدین ترتیب اولین کاری که به خیالش رسید، نقشۀ قتل حضرت بهاء‌الله بود.

یک روز هیکل مبارک را به منزل خود دعوت کرد و در فنجان چای مواد سمی ریخت و حضرت بهاء‌الله را مسموم کرد. جمال قدم یک ماه با درد و کسالت بستری بودند. درجۀ حرارت بدن بالا رفته و وضع مزاجی چنان وخیم بود که یک پزشک خارجی بر بالین مبارک فرا خوانده شد. پزشک از دیدن کبودی چهرۀ مبارک از بهبود ناامید شد و بدون تجویز دارو از حضور مبارک مرخص شد. در نتیجۀ این مسمومیت حضرت بهاء‌الله تا آخر حیات مبارک به لرزش دست مبتلا بودند.

یکی از زن‌های میرزا یحیی که برای مدتی او را ترک کرده بود، جزئیات اقدامات او را در مورد مسموم کردن هیکل مبارک بازگو کرد و شهادت داد که میرزا یحیی یک بار دیگر هم آب چاه بیت را که مورد استفاده عائله مبارک و اصحاب بود، به زهر آلوده بود که در نتیجه علائم بیماری عجیبی در آنان ظاهر شد.

میرزا یحیی بار دیگری هم قصد قتل هیکل مبارک را با استاد محمد علی سلمانی در میان گذاشته بود. استاد سلمانی در خاطرات چنین نوشته است: "یک روز که در حمام در انتظار جمال مبارک بودم، ازل وارد شد و پس از شستشو به حنا بستن پرداخت. من هم برای کمک در کنارش نشسته بودم. در این حال شروع به صحبت نموده... زبان به تحسین شجاعت و دلاوری گشوده گفت که بعضی‌ها فطرتاً شجاع هستند و در زمان مناسب شجاعت خود را نشان می‌دهند.... و اضافه کرد ببین با این امر چه می‌کنند. همه کس حتی برادر خودم بر علیه من قیام کرده است و من بیچاره آنی راحت ندارم. طرز گفتار او نوعی بود که گوئی چون وصی حضرت اعلیٰ است مظلوم واقع شده و برادرش، أعوذ بالله، حق او را غصب نموده است. ازل باز هم به مدیحه گوئی از شجاعت پرداخت و اظهار داشت که امر الهی احتیاج به کمک دارد. منظور او از تمام این مطالب... و تشویق‌هائی که از من به عمل می‌آورد، همه آن بود که مرا وادار به قتل جمال مبارک نماید."

با اینکه حضرت بهاء‌الله به جناب سلمانی فرمودند که این قضیه را به احدی اظهار نکند، او نتوانست آرام بگیرد و رازش را بر ملا کرد. بعدها میرزا یحیی این واقعه را انکار کرد و آن را به جناب سلمانی نسبت داد!

اکنون موقع آن فرارسیده بود که حضرت بهاء‌الله مقام مظهریت خود را که در آثار مبارکه اظهار فرموده بودند، رسماً به میرزا یحیی که هنوز خود را وصی حضرت باب می‌دانست، ابلاغ فرمایند. بدین منظور کاتب خود میرزا آقا‌جان را مأمور فرمودند که یکی از الواح مبارک را که به صراحت حاکی از مقام مظهریت جمال قدم بود، نزد میرزا یحیی ببرد و بخواند و جواب صریح او را خواستار شود. میرزا یحیی درخواست کرد که یک روز مهلت به او داده شود تا پس از تأمل نظر قطعی خود را ابراز دارد. اما پاسخی از او شنیده نشد و پس از چندی گفته بود که او خود نیز داعیۀ چنین مقامی را دارد.

در زمان مخالفت میرزا یحیی لطمه‌های شدیدی به امر نوزاد الهی وارد شد. در زمان حاضر تصور اینکه بلاهت ادعای کسی چون میرزا یحیی می‌توانسته باعث بروز سختی و آزار باشد، ممکن است مسخره به نظر برسد اما واقعیت این است که در آثار حضرت بهاء‌الله بیش از هر مخالف دیگری از آزار و صدمات میرزا یحیی سخن رفته است.

پیداست که دعوی میرزا یحیی اثر پایداری نداشت. یکی از علل این شکست را شاید بتوان با نظری به یکی از آثار حضرت بهاء‌الله یافت. حضرت بهاء‌الله در لوحی که به افتخار شیخ سلمان، چاپار باوفای خود، نازل فرموده‌اند، به این علت اشاره نموده‌اند: ای سلمان، این ایام مظهر کلمۀ محکمۀ ثابته لا اله الا هو است، چه که حرف نفی به اسم اثبات بر جوهر اثبات و مظهر آن مقدّم شده و سبقت گرفته و احدی از اهل ابداع تا حال به این لطیفۀ ربانیه ملتفت نشده.... ای سلمان، قلم رحمن می‌فرمایند در این ظهور حرف نفی را از اول اثبات برداشتیم...."

در جملۀ "لا اله الا هو" کلمۀ "لا" که حرف نفی در زبان عربی است قبل از عبارت "الا هو" آمده است. به ترجمه تحت اللفظی "لا اله الا هو" یعنی "نیست خدائی مگر او [خدای یکتا]". چنانچه دیده می‌شود کلمۀ "نیست" پیش از کلمۀ "خدای یکتا" واقع شده است. جمال مبارک از اصطلاح "حرف نفی" - لا - استفاده استعاری می‌کنند و مخالفان امر مبارک را نیز حرف نفی می‌خوانند و بعد توضیح می‌دهند که همواره حروف نفی - مخالفان - بر حروف اثبات - کسانی که حق با آنهاست - غلبه داشته‌اند. سپس در ادامۀ این بیان می‌فرمایند که در این ظهور چنین نخواهد بود، بدین معنی که در این ظهور کسانی که محق نیستند، از لحاظ ظاهر بر اهل حق برتری نخواهند داشت.

اهل بهاء بارها صدق این حکم و لطیفۀ ربانی را در تاریخ امر مبارک تجربه کرده‌اند. ازل و پیروان او از مخالفت با جمال قدم طرفی بر نبستند و عاقبت تنها بعنوان یک فرقه به تاریخ پیوستند. مخالفت میرزا محمد علی و دیگر ناقضان عهد جمال ابهی در برابر مرکز میثاق، به رغم صدمه‌هائی که بین حضرت عبدالبهاء و جامعۀ نوپای بهائی وارد کرد، عقیم ماند. مخالفت سرسختانۀ کسانی چون آواره و صبحی و نیکو و دیگر ریاست‌طلبان در زمان حضرت ولی امرالله ثمری نداد.

حضرت بهاء‌الله در لوح سلمان فرموده‌اند که "اگر نفسی بعد از ملاحظۀ این لوح در کلمۀ مذکور تفکر نماید، به کجی مطلع شود که از قبل نشده." بدین ترتیب دوستان را دعوت می‌کنیم که برای آگاهی از حکمت‌های الهی به لوح مبارک مراجعه نمایند.

اطلاعیه دفتر روابط عمومی

ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE OFFICE OF PUBLIC INFORMATION INFORMATION

دفتر روابط عمومی محفل روحانی ملی یادآوری می‌کند که افراد احباء و محافل روحانی محلی نباید خبرنگاران و به طور کلی افراد غیربهائی را به جلسات ضیافت نوزده روزه یا کانون‌های ناحیه‌ای دعوت نمایند.

هر چند ممکن است که حضور یک خبرنگار در جلسۀ ضیافت نوزده روزه باعث اعلان امر شود و ثمر تبلیغی داشته باشد، اما این امر نباید سبب شود که در اجرای دستورات اساسی تشکیلات امری کوتاهی رود. هنگامی که یک غیربهائی در جلسۀ ضیافت شرکت کند، ضیافت نوزده روزه خود به خود منتفی خواهد بود.

اگر خبرنگاری کسب اجازه کند که در یکی از جلسات ضیافت نوزده روزه حضور یابد، باید نمایندۀ جامعۀ امری در نهایت حکمت و ادب کم و کیف جلسه را به آگاهی او برساند و در عین حال اظهار دارد که حضور در جلسه منحصر به اهل بهاء است. البته ناگفته پیداست که محافل روحانی محلی یا جمعیت‌های بهائی کاملاً مختارند - و شاید بهتر باشد - که جلسۀ جداگانه‌ای برای دعوت و شرکت خبرنگار مذکور ترتیب دهند. [Page 18]

Success

plate, or reflect. "Admonitions" are instructions; "tenets" are principles or doctrines.

"Through the might of God and His power, and out of the treasury of His knowledge and wisdom, I have brought forth and revealed unto you the pearls that lay concealed in the depths of His everlasting ocean.... Who else but yourselves is to be blamed if ye choose to remain unendowed with so great an outpouring of God's transcendent and all-encompassing grace, with so bright a revelation of His resplendent mercy?..." (Bahá’u’lláh, Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, pp. 327-328)

Is it "enough" for me to read the Writings and try to be a good example?

• What are the benefits of meditating on the Writings?

5. "Commit to memory certain of its exhortations and prayers."

Memorizing both prayers and principles which guide our actions helps us to better remember God's counsel, live the Bahá’í life, and teach others.

"From the texts of the wondrous, heavenly Scriptures they should memorize phrases and passages bearing on various instances, so that in the course of their speech they may recite divine verses whenever the occasion demandeth it, inasmuch as these holy verses are the most potent elixir, the greatest and mightiest talisman. (Bahá’u’lláh, Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 200)

• What are some barriers to memorization?

• What practical steps can I take which will aid in memorizing passages from the Writings?

6. "Master the essentials of its administration."

The Bahá’í Administrative Order is a channel for God's love and is designed for the propagation of the Faith. The "essentials" of administration are the primary and necessary elements which will speed the growth of the Faith.

... All these administrative activities, however harmoniously and efficiently conducted, are but means to an end, and should be regarded as direct instruments for the propagation of the Bahá’í Faith. Let us take heed lest in our great concern for the perfection of the administrative machinery of the Cause, we lose sight of the Divine Purpose for which it has been created." (Shoghi Effendi, Bahá’í Administration, p. 103)

"They [young Bahá’ís] must grasp the Administration, so that they can wisely and efficiently administer the ever-growing affairs of the Cause." (Letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, in The Importance of Deepening, p. 45)

What is the purpose of the Administrative Order?

What are the "essentials" which lead to fulfilling this purpose?

7. "Keep abreast of its current affairs and latest developments."

In their messages, the Guardian and the Universal House of Justice constantly draw to mind aspects of the progress of the Faith. The Plans for the growth of the Faith designed by the Guardian and the Universal House of Justice give each Bahá’í a direction and sense of purpose in service to the Cause. Likewise, plans of National and Local Spiritual Assemblies are crucial in the development of the Cause; each Bahá’í should remain well informed as to the plans and priorities of the Bahá’í world.

"There can be no doubt that the progress of the Cause from this time onward will be characterized by an ever increasing relationship to the agencies, activities, institutions and leading individuals of the non-Bahá’í world. We shall acquire greater stature at the United Nations, become better known in the deliberations of governments, a familiar figure to the media, a subject of interest to academics, and inevitably the envy of failing establishments.

"Our preparation for and response to this situation must be a continual deepening of our faith, an unwavering adherence to its principles of abstention from partisan politics and freedom from prejudices, and above all an increasing understanding of its fundamental verities and relevance to the modern world." (The Universal House of Justice, Ridván 1984, to the Bahá’ís of the world)

What is the current Plan of the Universal House of Justice?

What are the priorities for action set by our National and local Spiritual Assemblies?

What significant developments in the growth of the Faith have recently taken place?

How can I respond to these developments and help to fulfill these plans?

Friends invited to attend exhibit by Bahá’í artist at NYC's Babcock Galleries during World Congress

Bahá’ís who are in New York City are invited to attend an exhibition at the Babcock Galleries of Bahá’í-inspired paintings and drawings by Walter Hatke, a Bahá’í for 25 years who is associate professor of art at Union College in Schenectady, New York.

The exhibition is to open on November 24 from 5-7 p.m. Babcock Galleries is at 724 Fifth Avenue (between 56th and 57th Streets) in Manhattan. The opening is free of charge, and no formal invitation is required.

The Right of God

Huqúqu’lláh (the Right of God) is a law revealed by Bahá’u’lláh in the Kitáb-i-Aqdas. Obeying the Law of Huqúqu’lláh purifies the material wealth we acquire by giving back to the Cause of God a part of that which has come from our Creator.

At this time, the Law of Huqúqu’lláh is binding only on Persian believers and those who are required to observe the law in their native country. Western believers are free to pay Huqúqu’lláh if they so choose. Payments to Huqúqu’lláh are tax-deductible for federal income and estate taxes.

Questions or payments should be addressed to one of the following Trustees:

Dr. Elsie Austin, Silver Spring, MD 20901; Dr. Amin Banani, Santa Monica, CA 90402; Dr. Daryush Haghighi, Rocky River, OH 44116.

Santa Fe News

This photograph of Bahá’ís presenting a copy of the book Bahá’u’lláh to Mayor Sam Pick (third from right) of Santa Fe, New Mexico, appeared May 30 in the Santa Fe New Mexican as part of an extensive feature article headlined 'Members of Bahá’í Faith gather around the world.' The article was centered on observances of the centenary of the Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh in Santa Fe and around the world and included a brief history of the Faith. Pictured with Mayor Pick are Bahá’ís (left to right) Nourollah Khozein, Phil Lucas, Helen Camp, Inée Yang Slaughter and Harold Gibson. (Photo by Paul Slaughter)

Fort Collins Unity Day observance noted in newspaper

This year's Race Unity Day picnic June 14 in Fort Collins, Colorado, was reported in a front-page article in the local news section of the Fort Collins Coloradoan with a color photograph and the headline "A day in the park for unity-Group shares ideas on what the world could one day be like."

Included was a brief history of Race Unity Day itself, an explanation of the Bahá’í principle of the oneness of humankind, and statements by several Bahá’ís on the importance of establishing unity among the races.

The Arc

sages from the Sacred Texts with their authorized interpretations, to be used for scholarly pursuits and to aid the House of Justice in its deliberations.

It will be left to future generations to appreciate the full magnitude of the events that have taken place during what ‘Abdu’l-Bahá referred to as "this radiant century," a century whose opening years coincided with the release of the Center of Bahá’u’lláh's Covenant from imprisonment, and whose closing years will witness the establishment of the Lesser Peace.

THIS CENTURY has seen the interment of the holy remains of the Báb in their resting place on the mountain of God, the triumphant sojourn of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá throughout the West, and the release of His Will and Testament.

It has also seen the release of the Tablets of the Divine Plan and the launching of successive global teaching plans based on them, under the guidance of the Guardian and later the Universal House of Justice; the evolution and expansion of the institution of the Hands of the Cause of God, with provisions made for the continuation of their functions in the future; and the unprecedented dispersal of pioneers and teachers throughout the world, leading to the spiritual conquest of the planet.

This century has seen the sailing of the "Ark" on the Mountain of God with the establishment of the Universal House of Justice, this infallible Institution crowning the Administrative Order of the Faith, this "last refuge for a tottering civilization." It has seen the emergence of the Faith from obscurity and its sudden rise as a focus of attention among world leaders and enlightened thinkers searching for solutions to humanity's growing problems.

This century recently witnessed the observance of the hundredth anniversary of the Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh, commemorating an event that energized the whole world "to a degree unapproached at any stage in the course of its existence on this planet," and has witnessed 100 years of unmatchable loyalty on the part of the Bahá’ís to His Covenant, resulting in a dynamic, united community covering the surface of the planet and destined to exert increasing influence in the shaping of the future world civilization.

This century has witnessed the "dawn of the Most Great Peace," as stated by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. It has seen monumental scientific and technological achievements in all fields of human endeavor which have resulted in the virtual removal of all barriers dividing the human family, while providing the technical means for its unification. It is now approaching the climax of witnessing the achievement of the Lesser Peace, synchronized, as foreseen by the Guardian, with the completion of the buildings of the Arc and the evolution of the local and national institutions of the Faith.

AT this historic juncture, when rapid expansion of the Faith is taking place in all parts of the world, when the Institutions are going through a crucial phase of their development, when the House of Justice is expanding the scope of its activities, and when the world in general is desperately in need of direction to free itself from its destructive course, the need for the development of the institutions at the World Center is urgent.

The duty of the present generation of Bahá’ís is to teach the Faith and to give of our wealth in fulfillment of the command of our Lord. Let us be equal to the task; let us follow the shining example of devotion set by our predecessors in the Cause; let us avail ourselves of the unique opportunities presented at this hour, and win eternal glory for ourselves and our beloved Faith. [Page 19]

Adrianople

from page 3

Tablet. Shaykh Salmán, and others like him, played a crucial role in the early history of the Faith. It was these devoted believers who were Bahá’u’lláh’s chief link with His followers in Iraq, Iran and other regions.

These people in particular had to have a thorough understanding of the issues in order to represent Bahá’u’lláh accurately to the believers. Also, they had to act as testimony to Bahá’u’lláh’s ability to regenerate the souls of men. Mírzá Yahyá had his own troop of emissaries, who were busy spreading calumnies about the Blessed Beauty both far and near.

SHAYKH Salmán was one who became a living example of the transforming power of the Covenant. By worldly standards he was unremarkable. Poor, illiterate and of a nature frank to the point of brusqueness, he was nevertheless a true lover of Bahá’u’lláh who braved every danger and rose to the heights of service to the Cause. In return, the Blessed Beauty endowed his soul with divine knowledge and heavenly qualities.

For more than 40 years Shaykh Salmán traveled on foot from Iran to the Holy Presence, bringing with him supplications and messages from the believers, and returning with Tablets and instructions for them from Bahá’u’lláh. His journeys took him through the length and breadth of Iran, often under dangerous and difficult circumstances. Yet so confirmed was he in his services that not once in all that time did he fail to deliver a single letter to its destination.

It is a known fact that Shaykh Salmán was so pure in heart that Bahá’u’lláh did not have to send His Tablets addressed to specific individuals. When Shaykh Salmán arrived in a certain town, he would have one of the friends read the Tablets for that location out loud one by one, he himself being illiterate. By their tone and content Shaykh Salmán would be able to discern the identity of the intended recipient.

To the spiritual confirmations contained in Bahá’u’lláh’s Tablets Shaykh Salmán added the virtues of his own spirit, which had been truly recreated. He succeeded in enkindling many souls with love for the Blessed Beauty, who saw in him the faith and happiness that they wished for themselves.

Mírzá Yahyá and his minions, spiritually bankrupt and utterly incapable of touching the hearts of the friends, could not begin to compete against such extraordinary evidences of Bahá’u’lláh’s sovereignty. Before long the vast majority of the believers had completely abandoned Mírzá Yahyá in favor of the true Beloved of the World.

REFLECTIONS OF THE HOLY YEAR

The Holy Year has been designated by the Universal House of Justice as a time for inner reflection on the part of every believer, in the hope of a “deeper appreciation” of Bahá’u’lláh’s purpose and a “recommitment to the Covenant.”

Moving forward in Bahá’í history, we see that the Cause of God has indeed won marvelous victories, advancing steadily and inexorably, in spite of, and often because of, the innumerable tests it has faced. And what is extraordinary, what makes the Faith so unique in history, is that many of these crises have come from within the ranks of its own followers, precipitated by those who wished to usurp the authority of the Cause for their own gain.

Witness the intrigues of the half-brothers of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and their associates both before and after Bahá’u’lláh’s passing; the machinations of Shoghi Effendi’s relatives and others during the years of his ministry; and the shameless behavior of Mason Remey and his supporters after the Guardian’s death. For all the clamor they raised, and for all the transient and minor successes they enjoyed, the Cause has emerged undivided, purer and more powerful, while they have seen their hopes completely shattered and have sunk into oblivion.

THIS IS NOT to minimize the danger such people posed to the Faith, which was very great. Neither should the damage they did be underestimated, nor the infinite suffering they caused, especially on the part of Bahá’u’lláh’s legitimate successors. Such dramatic episodes in the history of the Faith, precisely because of their seriousness, reveal the true power of the Covenant.

We have today the advantage of historical perspective. We can easily see the truth of Bahá’u’lláh’s ‎sayinigs sayings‎ concerning the creative power of His Word. We can appreciate that when He spoke of such things as the Most Great Peace and the establishment of His World Order, He was not merely predicting them—He ordained that they would come to pass. In having seen so many of His marvelous promises come true, we have a gift for which we can never be grateful enough.

Lucille Brown, 74, Bahá’í who was child actress in ‘Our Gang’ comedies, dies in Buffalo, New York

Lucille Brown, a Bahá’í who was a child movie actress in the “Our Gang” comedies and later had parts in the movies “Stormy Weather” and “Green Pastures,” died August 21 in Buffalo, New York. She was 74 years old.

After a long career as an actress, singer, dancer and radio personality, Ms. Brown enrolled in college at age 54, earning a ‎bachelors bachelor's‎ degree in communications from Buffalo State College and a ‎masters master's‎ degree in liberal arts from the University of Buffalo.

She had been found at age five by producer Hal Roach in an orphanage near Hollywood and cast as Farina in the “Our Gang” series. She sang and danced for many years as the headliner of Babe Barlow (her stage name) and the Sugar Drops.

She traveled throughout Europe and the Pacific entertaining servicemen during World War II, and later hosted radio programs in Memphis, Tennessee, and Buffalo.

Nearly 100 people take part in Bahá’í Race Unity Walk

Nearly 100 people of many races and ethnic backgrounds took part August 15 in a Race Unity Walk sponsored by the Bahá’ís of Lexington, Kentucky.

Literature including the National Assembly’s statement on race unity and the statement on Bahá’u’lláh from the World Center was given to a number of participants in the walk who were not Bahá’ís.

After the walk, participants heard a brief talk on the Bahá’í approach to racism by William E. Davis, treasurer of the National Spiritual Assembly, who also spoke at a public meeting that evening attended by a dozen non-Bahá’ís.

Seen in a photograph taken September 1 is excavation for the new retaining walls joining the storage building and Pilgrim House at the Bahá’í World Center on the slopes of Mount Carmel in Haifa, Israel. (Photo by Ruhi Vargha)

Chinese newsletter

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

IN MEMORIAM

Isabelle Belyea Newport Beach, CA June 26, 1992	Rustom Jamshedi Tucson, AZ May 6, 1992	Hilda Masshardt Iola, WI April 5, 1992	Freddy Smith Las Cruces, NM Date Unknown
Hooshang Borhanian Columbia, SC April 23, 1991	Ed Joseph Pawleys Island, SC Date Unknown	Billy McNack Wagoner, OK Date Unknown	Johness Snow Andrews, SC Date Unknown
Curtis Brockington Andrews, SC Date Unknown	Brice Kennedy Lynchburg, SC Date Unknown	Alvina Moellendorf New Berlin, WI July 22, 1992	Ann Stadelman Tucson, AZ March 24, 1992
Lucille Brown Buffalo, NY August 21, 1992	Jim Kerr Arco, ID July 24, 1992	Salvator Mauriello Van Nuys, CA January 10, 1992	June Teuffer Chicago, IL June 30, 1992
Earnest Bryant Pawleys Island, SC Date Unknown	LeRoy Lawson Las Cruces, NM Date Unknown	Hanna A. Neumann Milwaukee, WI August 27, 1992	John Weiss Greenfield, WI Date Unknown
Mamie L. Cavin Pismo Beach, CA August 11, 1992	Manila Lee Los Angeles, CA August 13, 1992	James No Fire Jay, OK Date Unknown	Clinton Wideman Davison, MI November 30, 1991
Dorothy Crosby Rimini, SC Date Unknown	David Lightfoot Sr. Amarillo, TX April 1990	Willie Price Kershaw, SC 1990	Dora Williams Sumter, SC Date Unknown
Chester Davison Laramie, WY Date Unknown	Daniel R. Martin Cambridge, MN December 1991	Hamid Shayesteh Richmond, IN July 17, 1992	Thelma Wright Las Cruces, NM Date Unknown
Lawrence Evans Peterborough, NH January 18, 1992

[Page 20]The Bahá’ís of Rocklin, California, entered a float in this year’s ‘Rocklin Jubilee’ parade whose theme was ‘Ride the Olympic Wave.’ The 25-foot-long Bahá’í entry featured a 6-foot-diameter multi-colored globe surrounded by flags of the U.S. and UN, a flag with nine-pointed star, and the inscription ‘Racial Unity—The ONE RACE we all win.’ After the parade, watched by some 15,000 spectators along its two-mile route, the Bahá’ís took part in the Jubilee celebration by providing a diaper-changing station for those who came with children to enjoy live entertainment, an arts and crafts sale, and talent show.

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.	This form may be used for one person or your entire family. Please be sure to list FULL NAMES AND I.D. NUMBERS for all individuals, ages 15 years or older, who will be affected by this change.
A. NAME(S): I.D. # __________ Title __________ I.D. # __________ Title __________ I.D. # __________ Title __________ I.D. # __________ Title __________
B. NEW RESIDENCE ADDRESS:	C. NEW MAILING ADDRESS:
Street address: ____________________	P.O. Box or Other mailing address: ____________________
Apartment # (If applicable): __________	Apartment # (If applicable): __________
City: ____________________	City: ____________________
State: __________ Zip code: __________	State: __________ Zip code: __________
D. NEW COMMUNITY:	E. HOME TELEPHONE NUMBER:
Name of new Bahá’í Community: __________ Moving date: __________	Area code: (___) Phone number: __________ Name: __________
F. WORK TELEPHONE NUMBER(S):
Area code: (___) Phone number: __________ Name: __________	Area code: (___) Phone number: __________ Name: __________
G. WE RECEIVE EXTRA COPIES BECAUSE:	H. I WOULD LIKE A COPY:
[ ] we do not have the same last name. We do not want extra copies, so please cancel the copy for the person(s) and I.D. number(s) listed above.	[ ] Our household receives only one copy of The American Bahá’í. I wish to receive my own copy. I have listed my name, I.D. number and address above.
[ ] 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.

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

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

OCTOBER

16-18: National Hispanic Bahá’í Conference, Bosch Bahá’í School, Santa Cruz, California. Sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Gilroy, California, and El Ruiseñor/The Nightingale. Registration $35 per person; children 3-12, $25; under 3, free. For information, phone the Bosch School, 408-423-3387; Los Angeles, 818-836-7967; San Jose, 408-842-7531.

18: Founders Day (20th anniversary of Gregory Institute, 10th anniversary of WLGI licensing), Louis G. Gregory Bahá’í Institute, Hemingway, South Carolina. For information, phone 803-558-5093.

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. For information, phone 41-71-91 91 31; fax 41-71-91 43 01.

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).

23-26: Second Bahá’í World Congress, Jacob K. Javits Center, New York City.

26-December 1: Radio Bahá’í International Conference (sponsored by IBAVC, the Louis Gregory Institute, and WLGI), Louis G. Gregory Bahá’í Institute, Hemingway, South Carolina. For information, phone 803-558-5093.

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.

23-27: Winter I (General Session, all ages), Bosch Bahá’í School. David Hofman, retired member of the Universal House of Justice, "A Provocative Study of the Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá"; Ron Gilpatrick, "The World Congress: Reflections and Opportunities"; Marsha Gilpatrick and Sheila Banani, "A Fundamentally Different Order." For children: "A Covenant Is a Promise." International folk dancing, winter holiday activities. To register, send $80 deposit for each person to Bosch Bahá’í School, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060; MasterCard/VISA, phone 408-423-3387.

25-28: Eighth annual Grand Canyon Bahá’í Conference, Hyatt Regency Hotel, Phoenix, Arizona. Rooms from only $40. Youth workshops, entertainment, top speakers (Dr. William Roberts, Dr. Suheil Bushrui, others). For more information please phone the GCBC hotline (24 hours a day), 602-375-9951.

30-January 3: Winter II (General Session, all ages), Bosch Bahá’í School. For program details, see Winter I Session (December 23-27). To register, send $80 deposit for each person to Bosch Bahá’í School, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060; MasterCard/VISA, phone 408-423-3387.

31-January 2: South Carolina Bahá’í Winter School, Louis G. Gregory Bahá’í Institute, Hemingway, South Carolina. For information, phone 803-558-5093.

JANUARY

7-10: Pioneer Training Institute, Bosch Bahá’í School, Santa Cruz, California. For information, phone 708-869-9039.

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

FEBRUARY

26-28: "Rendezvous of the Soul," a special Holy Year program for personal reflection, Bosch Bahá’í School. For information, phone 408-423-3387.

26-28: Bahá’í Health and Human Services Conference, Louis G. Gregory Bahá’í Institute, Hemingway, South Carolina. For information, phone 803-558-5093.

SPRING

Pioneer Training Institutes, Green Acre Bahá’í School, Eliot, Maine, and Bahá’í National Center, Evanston, Illinois. For information, phone 708-869-9039.

Bahá’ís in Escondido, California, took part in April in a special ‘We Love Children’ event with a booth at a local shopping center. Besides offering quotations from the Writings about mothers and children, the Bahá’ís provided an area in which families could rest and children play while attending the event, whose purposes were to celebrate children and to bring together those groups that are interested in working with them.