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SACRIFICE

Life of Purest Branch an example of devotion to God

BY KEN BOWERS

Perhaps the most prominent theme running through the course of religious history is that of sacrifice. The annals of all of the great Revelations of God are punctuated, especially in their early years, by stories of heroic steadfastness and resignation to God's Will.

In every Dispensation there have been believers in God who personified the essence of love for Him, who were willing—indeed, delighted—to offer up for His sake their homes, their substance, and even their lives.

As their examples these people, in every age, have turned to none other than the Divine Messengers themselves, Who not only taught the importance of sacrifice, but, each and all, gave utterly of Themselves to promote the Cause of God.

In many cases there were also certain special ones who, because of their high spiritual stations and extraordinary sacrifices, set the standard for radiant submission and obedience to God. And although they were not Manifestations of God, their sacrifices, like those of the Prophets, resulted in tremendous victories.

In the Bahá’í Dispensation there is no more prominent example of such a person than Mírzá Mihdí, the second surviving son of Bahá’u’lláh, designated by Him as the Purest Branch (the term Branch signifying one of His male descendants).

Mírzá Mihdí was the full brother of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the Most Great Branch, and was surpassed only by his elder Brother in spiritual qualities and heavenly knowledge. All the believers who knew him were aware of his sterling character, his devoted services and his remarkable attainments.

The story of his death, moving and tragic, is an episode that ranks with a handful of other events in the age-old history of God's Cause whose luster time can never erode, and whose significance men will never completely fathom.

IN THE MOST GREAT PRISON

Bahá’u’lláh and His companions were banished from Adrianople to ‘Akká in 1868, arriving in the prison-city in the late summer of that year. The city's citadel, a fortress-like structure, was used alternately through history as a barracks and a place of confinement.

Louis Gregory Institute marks 20th year with Founders Day program

The annual celebration of Founders Day was held October 18 at the Louis G. Gregory Bahá’í Institute in Hemingway, South Carolina.

The program, which included a presentation and dinner, was open to the public, and featured guest speakers Gail Curwin, a Bahá’í from Greenwood, South Carolina, and Willie Bethune, Special Services coordinator for the Waccamaw, South Carolina, Center for Mental Health. Both have rendered years of distinguished service to the Institute.

Another highlight of the celebration was musical entertainment, which included the Kingstree Bahá’í Children's Choir, the "Bahá’í Jubilees" of Horry County, soloists Rose McCoy and Lisa Mathews, and the Show Stoppers, a local barbershop quartet.

"This year's Founders Day had special significance," said Truitt White, director of the Gregory Institute. "Not only is this the Holy Year, but it is the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the Institute and the 10th anniversary of the granting of the building permit for WLGI Radio Bahá’í."

About 120 people including 15 non-Bahá’ís attended the celebration.

INSIDE

Success in teaching Part 4 of a study guide offering prerequisites from the Guardian

The Funds In Ethiopia, hardship and unrest help personalize process of giving

Temple restoration Decade-long effort to restore Temple's appearance, soundness nears completion

Bahá’í House of Worship Restoration Project

The Bahá’í House of Worship Restoration Project is one of the most significant initiatives undertaken by the American Bahá’í community in recent years. Begun in 1983, the project is about one year from completion. Its main goals are to ensure the structural soundness and original appearance of the House of Worship, as well as to provide a program for ongoing maintenance.

84th National Convention to be held at House of Worship in Wilmette

The 84th Bahá’í National Convention will be held May 20-23, 1993, in Foundation Hall at the Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois.

After seating of the delegates, less than 200 seats remain available for Bahá’ís who wish to observe the proceedings. Seats for visitors are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis determined by postmark. Requests for seating should be postmarked on or after January 4, 1993 and will be honored until seating is filled.

For each person requesting a seat, please send name, address, Bahá’í I.D. number and telephone number to: National Convention Seating, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. Seating is available by advance registration only.

Information about hotel accommodations will appear in an upcoming issue of The American Bahá’í. [Page 2]Prerequisites of success in teaching: A study guide (part 4)

INTRODUCTION

This is the fourth in a series of articles, the intention of which is to delve into a statement, made by the Guardian in The Advent of Divine Justice, which outlines prerequisites of success in teaching the Faith.

Shoghi Effendi drew attention to the importance of deepening our knowledge of the Faith as a preparation for delivering Bahá’u’lláh’s Message. In this passage, the Guardian comments on various facets of deepening. The focus of this article is to discuss his directive to "assimilate its [the Faith's] laws and principles."

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." (The Advent of Divine Justice, p. 49)

ACTION

"...assimilate its laws and principles..."

"To assimilate" means "to integrate" or "to take in and incorporate as one's own." "Assimilating" the laws and principles of the Faith requires efforts to learn of Bahá’u’lláh’s standards and align our daily lives closer to them.

The Guardian spoke of the Faith’s "fundamental laws and cardinal principles" as "the warp and woof of the fabric of its future World Order" (God Passes By, p. 223). Bahá’u’lláh, in the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, defined the Laws of God. He stated of the Mother Book of this Revelation:

"While in prison We have revealed a Book which We have entitled 'The Most Holy Book.' We have enacted laws therein and adorned it with the commandments of thy Lord, Who exerciseth authority over all that are in the heavens and on the earth. Say: Take hold of it, O people, and observe that which hath been sent down in it of the wondrous precepts of your Lord, the Forgiving, the Bountiful. It will truly prosper you both in this world and in the next and will purge you of whatsoever ill beseemeth you. He is indeed the Ordainer, the Expounder, the Giver, the Generous, the Gracious, the All-Praised." (Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 262)

These laws are an animating, rejuvenating force. They bring souls closer to God, and the act of living one's life in accordance with Bahá’u’lláh’s teachings provides an avenue for spiritual growth. Bahá’u’lláh’s laws and principles guide us in our lives and assist in the betterment and upliftment of souls.

The process which Bahá’ís often discuss as "spiritual transformation" is closely linked with this action of studying the Writings to discern God's commandments and incorporating the principles of the Faith into our daily lives.

Further sources of study are abundant. A compilation entitled Living the Life, which gathers references from Shoghi Effendi and the Universal House of Justice, is currently available. In addition, of course, is the long-awaited annotated English translation of the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, which should soon be published.

SUPPLEMENTARY REFERENCES

"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." (Bahá’u’lláh, Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 143)

"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 and Codification 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)

"It behoveth us one and all to recite day and night both the Persian and Arabic Hidden Words, to pray fervently and supplicate tearfully that we may enabled to conduct ourselves in accordance with these divine counsels. These holy Words have not been revealed to be heard but to be practiced." (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, The Importance of Deepening, #37, p. 11)

"One thing and only one thing will unfailingly and alone secure the undoubted triumph of this sacred Cause, namely, the extent to which our own inner life and private character mirror forth in their manifold aspects the splendor of those eternal principles proclaimed by Bahá’u’lláh." (Shoghi Effendi, Bahá’í Administration, p. 66)

"To study the principles, and to try to live according to them, are...the two essential mediums through which you can insure the development and progress of your inner spiritual life and of your outer existence as well." (on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, in The Importance of Deepening, #117, p. 37)

"The great thing is to 'live the life—to have our lives so saturated with the Divine teachings and the Bahá’í Spirit that people cannot fail to see a joy, a power, a love, a purity, a radiance, an efficiency in our character and work that will distinguish us from worldly-minded people and make people wonder what is the secret of this new life in us." (on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, in Living the Life: A Compilation, p. 9)

"In considering the effect of obedience to the laws on individual lives, one must remember that the purpose of this life is to prepare the soul for the next. Here one must learn to control and direct one's animal impulses, not to be a slave to them. Life in this world is a succession of tests and achievements, of falling short and of making new spiritual advances. Sometimes the course may seem very hard, but one can witness, again and again, that the soul who steadfastly obeys the law of Bahá’u’lláh, however hard it may seem, grows spiritually, while the one who compromises with the law for the sake of his own apparent happiness is seen to have been following a chimera: he does not attain the happiness he sought, he retards his spiritual advance and often brings new problems upon himself." (The Universal House of Justice, Living the Life: A Compilation, p. 41)

QUESTIONS

.Do I choose what is God's desire for me?

. What practical steps can I take in my daily life that will bring me closer to Bahá’u’lláh’s standard?

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.

More than 200 Bahá’ís gather in Glenwood Springs to commemorate ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit there in 1912

More than 200 Bahá’ís gathered September 11-13 at the Hotel Colorado in Glenwood Springs to commemorate ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit to that community in 1912.

The weekend was a delightful mixture of song, story-telling, inspiration, workshops, fun and fellowship.

The keynote speaker was Steven Gonzales, a Bahá’í who is assistant attorney-general for the state of Arizona. Following his talk on Saturday evening, Ted O'Leary, the mayor of Glenwood Springs, was given copies of the Statement on Bahá’u’lláh, "The Promise of World Peace," and "The Vision of Race Unity." Other speakers included Auxiliary Board members Carol Brooks and Carl Ewing and special guest Louise Matthias, daughter of the Hand of the Cause of God Dorothy Baker, who shared stories of her mother.

Memories of the Hand of the Cause of God Enoch Olinga were shared by Duane and Stephanie Troxel in whose home he was a guest while they were pioneering in Africa. Among the entertainers in Glenwood Springs was Mr. Olinga's son, Godwin Olinga.

Mr. Troxel also gave a slide presentation on the Guardian of the Cause of God, Shoghi Effendi.

The weekend concluded with another slide presentation, this one by Marie Griffith of the Colorado Bahá’í Historical Society, chronicling a recent trip to locate the site of a gold claim filed by Thornton Chase, the first American Bahá’í.

The American Bahá’í is published 19 times a year by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201. Second class postage paid at Evanston, IL, and additional mailing offices. ISSN Number: 1062-1113. Executive editor: Jack Bowers. Associate Editor: Ken Bowers. Art director: Scot Corrie. The American Bahá’í welcomes news, letters and other items of interest from individuals and the various institutions of the Bahá’í Faith. Articles should be clear and concise; color or black-and-white glossy photographs should be included whenever possible. Please address all materials and correspondence to The Editor, The American Bahá’í, Wilmette, IL 60091. Postmaster: Send address changes to Management Information Systems, Bahá’í National Center, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201. Copyright © 1992 by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States. World rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. [Page 3]ment for serious offenders against Ottoman law. It was there that the Lord of Hosts, His family and companions were first incarcerated.

The conditions of their imprisonment, clearly laid out in the Sultán’s edict of banishment, were extremely severe. One important provision was that they were forbidden to have any contact whatsoever with believers on the outside. For this reason few of Bahá’u’lláh’s followers manged to attain His presence during the period immediately following His arrival in ‘Akká.

Needless to say, these circumstances made for much suffering on the part of Bahá’u’lláh’s small company of fellow-exiles. However, they at least had the consolation of nearness to their Beloved, whereas there were countless others who yearned to attain His presence, but, due to the uncomprising policy of the government authorities, were prevented from doing so.

Ustád Ismá’íl-i-Káshí was one such person. Arriving at the gates of the prison city after a long journey from Mosul, he found that the best he could do was to post himself on the far side of the moat and gaze at the window of Bahá’u’lláh’s cell. According to Shoghi Effendi, Ustád "failed in the end, owing to the feebleness of his sight, to discern His face, and had to turn back to the cave which served as his dwelling-place on Mt. Carmel—an episode that moved to tears the Holy Family who had been anxiously watching from afar the frustration of his hopes."

There must have been many heartbreaking incidents of this sort during the period of Bahá’u’lláh’s strictest confinement, which would last for well over two years. But in the end the gates of the prison were flung open to the believers, under circumstances so extraordinary that none doubted that the Hand of God Himself had accomplished it.

THE SACRIFICE OF THE PUREST BRANCH

During these early days in ‘Akká it was the custom of Mírzá Mihdí to pray and meditate every evening on the roof of the citadel. One night, as he paced back and forth in deep thought, he accidentally stepped through an open skylight, plunging to the floor below and falling on a crate which pierced his chest.

Aqá Husayn-i-Aschi, one of the companions present, recalled what happened afterward. His account was summarized by the Hand of the Cause of God Hasan Balyuzi in his book, Bahá’u’lláh The King of Glory:

"...the sound of his fall and the rush of the companions toward him brought Bahá’u’lláh from His room. He anxiously enquired what had happened. The Purest Branch said that he had always counted his steps to that skylight but on that particular occasion had forgotten to do so.

"An Italian physician was called in, but his treatment was of no avail. Although obviously suffering, the Purest Branch remained attentive to his visitors, the companions who came to stand or sit at his bedside and to attend to his needs. Aqá Husayn remembered that he would express his unease at having to lie down in their presence. Within twenty-two hours of his fall he breathed his last.

"Aqá Husayn recalled hearing Bahá’u’lláh lamenting aloud: ‘Mihdí! O Mihdí!’ He also recalled that before death overtook the Purest Branch, Bahá’u’lláh asked him: ‘Aqá, what do you wish, tell Me,’ to which His son replied: ‘I wish the people of Bahá to be able to attain Your presence.’ And so it shall be,’ Bahá’u’lláh said; ‘God will grant your wish.’"

The Purest Branch died on June 23, 1870. He was 22 years old.

Bahá’u’lláh, His family and their companions were inconsolably grief-stricken. To have lost one so pure, so devoted, so utterly void of self, so full of love for his Father and for the companions, was a devastating, irreparable blow.

After Mírzá Mihdí’s death Bahá’u’lláh revealed a prayer in his honor, the contents of which are partially described by Shoghi Effendi in God Passes By:

"In a highly significant prayer, revealed by Bahá’u’lláh in memory of His son—a prayer that exalts his death to the rank of those great acts of attonement associated with Abraham’s intended sacrifice of His son, with the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and the martyrdom of Imám Husayn—we read the following: ‘I have, O my Lord, offered up that which Thou hast given Me, that Thy servants may be quickened, and all that dwell on earth be united. And. likewise, these prophetic words, addressed to his martyred son: "Thou art the Trust of God and His Treasure in this Land. Erelong will God reveal through Thee that which He hath desired."’"

Within a few months the authorities in ‘Akká, due to nececessities of security, were forced to fling open the gates of the city, thus allowing free access to the pilgrims. Bahá’u’lláh and His family were also released from the citadel and were allowed to take up residence in the city. In this way Mírzá Mihdí’s wishes were suddenly and miraculously fulfilled.

THE MYSTERY OF SACRIFICE

‘Abdu’l-Bahá stated that "The mystery of ‘Ransom’ (or sacrifice) is a most great subject and is inexhaustible." It would be far beyond anyone’s capacity, therefore, to fully appreciate its meaning.

The Writings tell us that the essence of sacrifice is to subordinate one’s own desires for the sake of the love of God. The case of the Imám Husayn, referred to in the above passage by Shoghi Effendi, is singled out by Bahá’u’lláh in the Kitáb-i-Íqán as a true example of one who, along with the Prophets Themselves, embodied the true spirit of sacrifice:

"These Essences of being are the shining Exemplars of sacrifice. They have offered, and will continue to offer up their lives, their substance, their souls, their spirit, their all, in the path of the Well-Beloved. By them, no station, however exalted, could be more dearly cherished. For lovers have no desire but the good-pleasure of their Beloved, and have no aim except reunion with Him."

The Writings also indicate that the sacrifices of holy beings are conducive to wonderful results. The crucifixion of Christ, also mentioned by the Guardian in the above passage, provides a clear example of this principle.

In the words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Christ "suffered all tribulation and hardships from the people and finally offered His life as a sacrifice in order to illumine humanity—gave His blood in order to guide the world of mankind. He accepted every calamity and suffering in order to guide men to the truth. Had He desired to save His own life, and were He without wish to offer Himself in sacrifice, He would not have been able to guide a single soul. There was no doubt that His blessed blood would be shed and His body broken. Nevertheless, that Holy Soul accepted calamity and death in His love for mankind. This is one of the meanings of sacrifice."

And again, there is the case of Abraham, referred to by the Guardian, whose intended sacrifice of His son brought infinite blessings upon Himself and His descendants. As the Bible records:

"And the angel of the Lord called unto Abraham out of heaven the second time,

"And said, By myself have I sworn, saith the Lord, for because thou hast done this thing, and hast not withheld thy son, thine only son:

"That in blessing I will bless thee, and in multiplying I will multiply thy seed as the stars of the heaven, and as the sand which is upon the seashore; and thy seed shall possess the gate of his enemies;

"And in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed my voice." (Genesis 22:15-18)

History has certainly borne out the validity of this divine promise.

The sacrifice of the Purest Branch was special because of his high spiritual station, although he was by no means equal to a Prophet in rank.

It should be remembered also that there were two parties to this sacrifice. His Father, the Supreme Manifestation of God, might have exercised the power He undoubtedly possessed to effect His son’s recovery. Instead, He accepted Mírzá Mihdí’s request to die for the sake of the Bahá’ís.

The magnitude of this sacrifice on Bahá’u’lláh’s part can hardly be overestimated. He was fully aware that the special qualities of His son would be sorely missed in the years ahead, not only by Himself, but by His successors as well.

Imagine what a difference it would have made for ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to have had this faithful brother by His side during the crises which followed His Father’s Ascension! What a consolation he would have been, had he survived long enough, to Shoghi Effendi, who was so weighted down by the treachery of most of his other relatives!

Had Mírzá Mihdí lived, the damage which the faithless succeeded in inflicting upon the Cause would certainly have been far less. Nevertheless, Bahá’u’lláh ordained that through his sacrifice "all that dwell on earth" would be united.

Bahá’u’lláh taught that the willingness to sacrifice is the greatest proof of love and sincerity. The following verse indicates that it is an indispensable prerequisite for nearness to God:

"O Son of Being! Seek a martyr's death in My path, content with My pleasure and thankful for that which I ordain, that thou mayest repose with Me beneath the canopy of majesty behind the tabernacle of glory."

The grave site and monument of Mírzá Mihdí (the Purest Branch) on Mount Carmel in Haifa, Israel.

It is clear that sacrifice in this sense is not merely the passive acceptance of whatever fate may have in store for the individual. The Writings emphasize that sacrifice must be the result of conscious knowledge and volition.

Moreover, sacrifice is not limited to the Manifestations of God—it is a spiritual law that operates in the human world as well. It is interesting that anyone can sacrifice himself for another’s benefit, as this letter written on behalf of the Guardian states:

"With reference to your question as to whether individuals can help each other by accepting to suffer for each other’s sake. Surely such sacrifice for our fellow humans can have helpful results. This law of sacrifice operates in our own lives, as well as in the lives of the Divine Manifestations." (Unfolding Destiny, pp. 436-437)

In this cynical age the act of self-sacrifice, especially when taken to the degree of martyrdom, is looked upon by some as a symptom of naivete, ignorance or foolishness. Others see it as contrary to humanity’s irredeemably selfish nature.

The history of the Faith, however, is replete with examples of selfless acts, proving that sacrifice is the highest form of spiritual attainment, the greatest expression of our spiritual reality, and a vital agent for humanity’s progress. Perhaps this principle is among those alluded to by Shoghi Effendi which, when reflected in the Bahá’í community in general, will bring about the promised victory of the Cause of God:

"Not by the force of numbers, not by the mere exposition of a set of new and noble principles, not by an organized campaign of teaching—no matter how worldwide and elaborate in its character—not even by the staunchness of our faith or the exaltation of our enthusiasm, can we ultimately hope to vindicate in the eyes of a critical and skeptical age the supreme claim of the Abhá Revelation. One thing and only one thing will unfailingly and alone secure the undoubted triumph of this sacred Cause, namely, the extent to which our own inner life and private character mirror forth in their manifold aspects the splendor of those eternal principles proclaimed by Bahá’u’lláh."

Today the remains of the Purest Branch rest securely in the heart of Mount Carmel, in the vicinity of the Shrine of the Báb and the Seat of the Universal House of Justice. His lovely monument, like those of his sister and mother, is comprised of a marble dome supported by several pillars, which in turn rest upon a stone foundation.

That monument symbolizes the Bahá’í Administrative Order, the divinely-ordained System that will accomplish the unification of all the peoples of the world under the shelter of Bahá’u’lláh’s Faith—an Order that will achieve the very purpose for which the Purest Branch laid down his life more than a century ago. [Page 4]

UPCOMING JOB FAIRS FOR INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS

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

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

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

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

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

SEARCH ASSOCIATES: P.O. Box 100, Mountaintop, PA 18707, Tel: 717-474-0370, Fax: 717-474-0380. Job fairs: Cambridge, MA, January 31-February 3, 1993, contact John F. Magagna, P.O. Box 100, Mountaintop, PA 18707; June 19-21, 1993, contact Dexter S. Lewis, P.O. Box 477, Hendersonville, NC 28739; Miami, FL, February 4-7, 1993, contact Dr. Marie D. Bogat, P.O. Box 601305, N. Miami Beach, FL 33160.

INTERNATIONAL EDUCATORS COOPERATIVE (IEC): East Falmouth, MA 02536, Tel/Fax: 508-540-8173. Job fair: Carmel, CA, February 12-14, 1992.

INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS SERVICES (ISS): P.O. Box 5910, Princeton, NJ 08543. Telephone: 609-452-0990.

Louis Gregory Institute hosts three-day conference designed to support development of black males

On August 28-30, the Louis G. Gregory Bahá’í Institute in Hemingway, South Carolina, hosted a conference entitled "Enabling and Supporting the Development of Black Males."

The conference was co-sponsored by the Action Council for Cross Cultural Mental Health and Human Services and the South Carolina Department of Mental Health.

Its purpose was to share experiences and insights concerning the special problems faced by black males in American society and to discuss strategies for working with with them in addressing those problems.

The 80 professionals who attended were from a wide variety of mental health and social service-related backgrounds. Also attending were members of the clergy, civic administrators, business managers and others.

Plenary sessions focused on family, community and spiritual support for the development of black males. Workshops dealt with such topics as fathers with multiple families, fatherless families, alcohol and drugs in the black community, child abuse, and the development of "mentoring" programs for black males.

Participants responded favorably to all aspects of the program.

The main emphasis was on the need for community-wide effort. The conference theme, "It Takes a Whole Village to Raise a Child," summed up the premise and spirit of the event.

HOLY YEAR BAHÁ’Í YOUTH SERVICE CORPS TRAININGS: FROM WORLD CONGRESS THROUGH SUMMER 1993

The schedule of upcoming BYSC training institutes is as follows:

JANUARY 5-10 at Bosch Bahá’í School, Santa Cruz, CA. 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. MARCH at Green Acre Bahá’í School, Eliot, ME. MAY at the Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL. JUNE at Louhelen Bahá’í School, Davison, MI. AUGUST 31-LABOR DAY WEEKEND at Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute, Hemingway, SC.

Watch The American Bahá’í for exact dates. Remember, you must take part in a training institute before you leave for your post! Make your plans to attend. Write to the Office of Pioneering at the Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 or phone 708-869-9039.

Our Sacred Obligation

National Bahá’í Fund Wilmette, IL 60091

UPCOMING PIONEERING INSTITUTES

January 7-10, 1993—Bosch Bahá’í School, Santa Cruz, California. March 1993—Green Acre Bahá’í School, Eliot, Maine. May 1993—Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, Illinois. June 1993—Louhelen Bahá’í School, Davison, Michigan. Labor Day weekend 1993—Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute, Hemingway, South Carolina.

If you are interested in pioneering, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, telephone 708-869-9039 or fax 708-869-0247 for more information.

Questions and answers about overseas service for younger Bahá’ís

Q: How do I know if I'm ready for a year of international service?

A: Ask Bahá’u’lláh to help make you ready. As always when we arise to serve the Cause, we must prepare as diligently and consistently as we can through prayer, deepening, and practicing the Bahá’í life with every breath. Ultimately, however, it is the power of divine assistance that comes through the act of arising to serve that makes us spiritually ready.

Q: So many youth I know have gone. Are any more needed?

A: A list of 102 international and seven domestic Youth Service Corps posts is available from the Office of Pioneering. Many of these posts reflect ongoing needs, and some remain unfilled. In the upcoming months we will survey several National Spiritual Assemblies to update our post listing. We expect to have many more opportunities by late spring.

Q: What can I expect to do on my Year of Service? Would I be qualified?

A: Virtually all areas of skill and talent are needed and, for the most part, specialized training is not expected. Needs range from rallying local youth in the teaching work to radio production, from community health work to driving and maintaining a jeep, from walking long distances to teach distant villages to helping the National Spiritual Assembly directly in its offices, and many more.

The Office of Pioneering will help match your abilities with an appropriate post. Although the Bahá’í Youth Service Corps should be seen primarily as an opportunity to serve the needs of the Cause, it also provides a unique opportunity to learn new skills that will serve you well in your future endeavors.

Q: How should I prepare to go? To whom should I talk? When?

A: If you are at least 18 years old or will be soon, the time to act is now! Many youth have found that just after high school or in between college years is an ideal time to serve the Faith for a year or two, and has keenly focused their future college studies.

Start investigating now, so you can be invited to a training institute near you, and be ready to go when you have completed your current studies and had time to save some funds. If you still have a few years to go before turning 18, you have more time to plan!

Youth of all ages should consult their parents and their local Spiritual Assembly about their desire to give a year of service. Together you can create a savings plan that should make financing your period of service easy when the time comes. You can also develop a plan to integrate your hands-on learning of the Bahá’í Youth Service Corps into the important task of completing your education.

No matter what stage you're at, all it takes to start is a call or note to the Office of Pioneering at the Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (telephone 708-869-9039; Fax 708-869-0247). We look forward to consulting with you, sending you an information packet and application, and answering any questions you have. There's no time to lose!

SHORT-TERM PIONEER GOALS

AFRICA	Goals (months)	Months Completed
Ciskei	24	7
Guinea-Bissau	12
Liberia	12
Nigeria	12
Tanzania	36	24
Uganda	24
Zambia	24	54
Totals	144	106

AMERICAS	Goals (months)	Months Completed
Argentina	24	0
Bahamas	12	20
Barbados	12	10
Brazil	24	21
British V.I.	12	14
Colombia	24	4
Dominica	12	0
Ecuador	12	18
Guyana	24	46
Honduras	24	27
Jamaica	24	30
Leeward Islands	12	51
Martinique	12	0
Mexico	36	82
Nicaragua	24	2
Panama	36	28
Paraguay	24	0
Puerto Rico	12	3
Uruguay	24	20
Venezuela	12	22
Totals	396	398

ASIA	Goals (months)	Months Completed
India	24	23
Japan	24	0
Pakistan	12	0
Taiwan	36	17
Totals	96	40

AUSTRALASIA	Goals (months)	Months Completed
Mariana Islands	24	0
Marshall Islands	12	6
W. Caroline Islands	12	14
Totals	48	20

EUROPE	Goals (months)	Months Completed
Portugal	24	4

ONGOING TRAVELING TEACHING OPPORTUNITIES

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

In Ethiopia, hardships personalize process of giving

How do you provide for the material needs of the Faith when your country is lashed by 20 years of famine, disease, civil unrest and drought? And become self-sustaining at the same time?

The answer in Ethiopia has been twofold. First, as has been reported in previous issues of The American Bahá’í, the community adopted a program of contribution goals for local Assemblies. When our National Spiritual Assembly mentioned to the Universal House of Justice its own plans for this kind of program, it was informed of the Ethiopian friends' experience.

Second, the National Spiritual Assembly of Ethiopia has been effective in helping every Bahá’í man, woman and child develop their own keen sense of the privilege and responsibility of giving sacrificially to the Funds of the Faith. The friends of whatever age give what they can, some in cash and others in gifts of things such as crafts, food, livestock, and so on.

The National Assembly has done this in part because this is, after all, the essence of the Bahá’í teachings concerning the material support on which the work of the Faith depends. In addition, however, the recurring crises these dear believers have had to confront have had their cost in human lives, so the National Spiritual Assembly has acted to ensure that each person's allegiance to the Faith is expressed personally and independently.

There is much that we can learn from such an example. The usual situation within a family in America is that one person handles all the family's financial matters including contributions to the Bahá’í Funds. One result of this approach, however, is that each individual's opportunity to receive blessings through giving is diminished.

The Bahá’í Funds

Happily, this awareness is changing. Parents are making a point of teaching their children to give. Children are finding ways of earning money on their own, out of which they contribute to the Funds and even make payments to Huqúqu’lláh.

On the other hand, we know of at least one local treasurer who, regardless of how busy he is, takes the time to make personal receipts for each child who gives. Sometimes this devoted believer will stay up until the small hours of the morning writing the receipt or note, and decorating it with little stickers that make it special to the young friends.

Love begets love, and these actions on the part of both giver and local Assembly have contributed to a wonderful atmosphere within that local community.

This story reminds us of the account given by the Counselor Member of the International Teaching Center, Mas'ud Khamsi, a story no doubt familiar to many of the friends.

It seems that as a young child, Mr. Khamsi gave the few pennies of candy money he would receive each week from his father to help build the Temple in America. Some weeks passed, until one night the treasurer of the local Fund came to the Khamsi house and went into the sitting room with the boy's father.

A few minutes later, the little boy was called into the room, where the treasurer came to him and gave him a warm embrace. Then, reaching into his pocket, the local Trustee brought out a piece of paper which he reverently touched to his lips and then passed to the waiting boy.

To his lasting and complete delight, the young Mr. Khamsi found, upon opening the slip of paper, a receipt made out in his name from none other than the beloved Guardian, Shoghi Effendi! The Trustee embraced him again, kissed his forehead, and left this young boy with his wonderful blessing.

Today, recalling those events, Mr. Khamsi ends his story with a question that puts his childhood sacrifice in its larger perspective: "Do you think I would give that paper up today, even for a million dollars?"

Great things can happen when a sense of personal ownership and commitment is the basis for one's actions. In Iran, it was a child whose blessings opened far-reaching paths of service. In Ethiopia, it is a community whose unity has been preserved in the face of repeated crises. In America, it may well be the fulfillment of our role as "the standard-bearers of the oneness of mankind."

"Our contributions to the Faith are the surest way of lifting once and for all time the burden of hunger and misery from mankind...."

AUTOMATIC CONTRIBUTION ENROLLMENT FOR INDIVIDUALS

Yes, I/we would like to enroll in the Automatic Contribution System (ACS). I have enclosed a voided check from my bank account.

I, _____________, authorize the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States to charge my checking account the amount of $_________ each Gregorian month (12 times yearly) to be distributed as follows:

Bahá’í National Fund $_________ Bahá’í International Fund $_________ Continental Bahá’í Fund $_________ Other (please describe) $_________ Total $_________

NOTE: If this is a family contribution, please include the names and Bahá’í I.D. numbers of all participants. Thank you.

Bahá’í I.D. # _________ Signed __________________________ Phone (H) _________ (W) _________

I/we give discretion over those portions of contribution(s) given to Funds other than the National Fund to the National Spiritual Assembly; such gifts will become part of the budget of the National Assembly.

No, I/we have decided not to enroll in the ACS at this time.

Name __________________________ Bahá’í I.D. # _________

Thank you for your time and consideration. NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHA'IS OF THE UNITED STATES OFFICE OF THE TREASURER

Frequent questions about Assembly Goal Program

Here are some of the more frequently asked questions about the Local Assembly Goal Program, and the answers given by the Office of the Treasurer.

DOES THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY NO LONGER EMPHASIZE INDIVIDUAL PARTICIPATION IN GIVING TO THE NATIONAL BAHÁ’Í FUND?

There has indeed been an emphasis historically on individual giving to the National Fund. Universal participation is the ultimate goal, but as we look ahead to a time of rapid growth, it becomes clear that the traditional system could not stand the pressure of such numbers. Entry by troops will reveal much more clearly the role of local bodies as the natural point of contact for a vastly larger community.

Local institutions will gradually become the primary entry point for all the Funds. There are important reasons why this makes sense. Local Assemblies are the primary educators of the friends. They are also the divine institution that is closest to the believers, so they are in the best position to address local questions and at the same time communicate to the friends the Faith's needs at every level.

Shoghi Effendi's injunction not to create any obstacles to giving indicates that local Assemblies will not be the exclusive entry point, nor should they become bottlenecks hindering the free flow of the Faith's lifeblood. The importance of their role, however, cannot be over-emphasized.

DOESN'T THE PROCESS OF SETTING CONTRIBUTION GOALS FOR THE NATIONAL BAHÁ’Í FUND JUST TRANSFER THE BASIC PROBLEM TO LOCAL ASSEMBLIES?

The goal concept is intended to apply the same approach to local support for the National Bahá’í Fund as the National Spiritual Assembly today uses in its support for the Bahá’í International Fund. What does this mean in practice?

For the last three years, the National Assembly has set a national goal for the amount of money ($25 million) it feels is the appropriate level of the community's support for all the major funds in light of the American Bahá’í community's unique station and capacity and the many tasks we Bahá’ís must do.

From the portion of the $25 million contributed to the National Bahá’í Fund, the National Assembly has committed to contribute at least $2 million to the Bahá’í International Fund on behalf of the American community. Thus, while the Assembly monitors all contributions flowing through its national office and tries to encourage the believers to strive for the over-all goal, it also pays particular attention to its own commitment, trying to manage its affairs in such a way as to meet that goal.

The community has an over-all goal, which it can achieve by giving individually and collectively to all the Funds of the Faith; the National Spiritual Assembly has a goal for the International Fund which it must meet out of its own contribution revenues.

The National Assembly feels this is like the situation in which local Assemblies operate. The friends give individually to the various Funds; they also support the local Fund and their Assembly's budgeted contributions for those same Funds.

An Assembly, at the same time, has the specific responsibility of setting and meeting a commitment out of its own income for the National Bahá’í Fund. The Assembly may or may not be aware of the full extent of giving by the friends in its community, but it does know the progress it is making toward its own pledge to the National Fund.

SHOULD CONTRIBUTIONS BE EARMARKED OR NOT?

The key question of "earmarking" is up to you. It is neither more nor less convenient.

HUQÚQU’LLÁH

Payments for Huqúqu’lláh should be made to "The Bahá’í Huqúqu’lláh Trust" and sent to one of the Trustees:

Dr. Elsie Austin, Silver Spring MD 20901 (Tel. 301-589-8481). Dr. Amin Banani, Santa Monica, CA 90402 (Tel. 213-394-5449). Dr. Daryush Haghighi, Rocky River, OH 44116 (Tel. 216-333-1506).

Inquiries regarding Huqúqu’lláh should be referred to one of the Trustees or to the Office of the Secretariat, Bahá’í Huqúqu’lláh Trust, Rocky River, OH 44116.

Video tapes of talks by the Hand of the Cause of God and Trustee of Huqúqu’lláh Dr. ‘Alí-Muhammad Varqá, and by ‘Alí Nakhjavání, a member of the Universal House of Justice, are available from the Office of the Secretariat for $6 each (postage included).

Copies of the compilation "Huqúqu’lláh, Extracts from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Shoghi Effendi and the Universal House of Justice" can be obtained from the Bahá’í Distribution Service at 85 cents per copy. [Page 6]

KITAB-I-AQDAS

The Universal House of Justice has informed us that the Kitab-i-Aqdas is currently in production. We expect to receive our shipment by February 1993. We are unable to take backorders at this time, but we will keep you informed as additional information becomes available.

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

Dr. Muhájir

by Irán Furútan Muhájir HC $40.00 SC $29.95

A long-awaited biography about hand of the Cause of God and Knight of Bahá’u’lláh, Dr. Muhájir. This is a story of a man who created an atmosphere of love, trust, and humble fellowship wherever he went. The special qualities which endeared him to his friends—his compassion, generosity, sincerity, and humor—are vividly recalled. His genuine empathy with the common folk in each country, which enabled him to bring thousands upon thousands of indigenous peoples to the Faith, is brilliantly revealed.

A rich variety of sources have been brought together for the first time in this book in order to celebrate the life of the ‘champion of mass teaching,’ including: extracts from Dr. Muhájir’s diary, personal recollections of Bahá’ís transformed by his guidance and example, more than 200 photographs illustrating Dr. Muhájir’s journeys around the globe, letters and reports of Spiritual Assemblies and the Universal House of Justice, special chapters devoted to his travels and teaching in Indonesia, Africa, Asia, Australia and the Pacific, Europe, North America, and South and Central America, and Dr. Muhájir’s own proposals for proclamation, enrollment, and consolidation in different parts of the world.

This splendid new book will touch the hearts of all those who remember Dr. Muhájir. It also presents new generations with the example of a life dedicated to emblazoning the Name of Bahá’u’lláh around the globe. It will inspire all who read it to commit themselves to a campaign of personal teaching befitting the Holy Year.

5-3/8" x 8-3/4", 686pp., contents, about the author, acknowledgments, introduction, foreword, preamble, appendix, notes and references, index Bahá’í Publishing Trust - UK

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, Kalimát Press

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 Eternal Voice

by Cordelia Norder SC $4.95

An easy-to-read, informative, introduction to the world’s great religions designed to stress the fundamental unity of each religion and its position in contemporary society. Now in its sixth printing, the Bahá’í Distribution Service is pleased to offer this edition for distribution. The author briefly describes the major ‎tenants tenets‎ of Hinduism, Zoroastrianism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, Islam, The Great Spirit of the American Indian, and the Bahá’í Faith. By comparing these religions and focusing on their common message, the author succeeds in illustrating the unifying principle of Bahá’u’lláh. In Gleanings From the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, Bahá’u’lláh says that the prophets of each of the world’s religions “are all but one person, one soul, one spirit, one being, one revelation.” This book is an excellent teaching tool and great gift.

4-1/4" x 6-3/4", 95pp., preface, contents, bibliography Legacy Press

Clearance Sale!

Baha’i Faith in America	9.95	5.00
Baha’i Faith World Religious Stat.	9.95	5.00
Baha’i Peace Program - Pack of 5	4.50	3.00
Baha’i Studies 15: Abiding Silence	5.00	3.00
Blessings Beyond Measure	14.50	7.25
Centers of Baha’i 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 Baha’i Studies Vol. 2, No. 3	5.00	2.50
Journal Baha’i Studies Vol. 1, No. 4	5.00	2.50
Journal Baha’i 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-Baha Color Litho 11" x 14"	8.50	5.00
Baha’i 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

Order now through the Bahá’í Distribution Service • 1-800-999-9019 [Page 7]1993 Multifaith Calendar 1993 CA $8.50

A beautifully produced calendar which details the holidays and holy days of the world's great religions. Brief explanations are included for the holy days of the following religions: Aboriginal Peoples, Bahá’í Faith, Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Jainism, Judaism, Sikhism, Unitarianism, and Zoroastrianism. A table containing a summary of the world's religious festivals is printed at the back. Each month features an attractive full-color reproduction of original artwork, printed on high-quality glossy stock. This calendar will be a favorite for Bahá’ís and non-Bahá’ís as well!

MULTIFAITH 10-1/2" x 13-7/16" Canadian Ecumenical Action

TEACHING MATERIALS

Becoming a Bahá’í SC $4.95

Becoming a Bahá’í is an excellent new teaching tool that presents some important facts about the Bahá’í Faith and explains what it means to become a Bahá’í. The booklet is divided into nine chapters: What is the Bahá’í Faith?, What is a Bahá’í?, What You Should Know, Discovering Our True Nature, A New Creation, The Promise of Bahá’u’lláh, The History of the Bahá’í Faith, A Pattern for Future Society, and The Spirit of the Bahá’í Community. The last page contains information about how to become a Bahá’í as well as the address and telephone listings for the Bahá’í National Centers in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and the United States. Becoming a Bahá’í is tastefully designed and includes 16 photographs, charts, and an index.

4-1/4" x 6-7/16", 72pp., index Bahá’í Publishing Trust - UK

FOREVER IN BLOOM

Forever in Bloom by Raghu Rai and Roger White HC $75.00

An art photography book, commissioned by The Universal House of Justice, capturing the breath-taking beauty of the India temple in all four seasons. The text is written by well-known Bahá’í author Roger White, and provides interesting insights into the history of the construction period of the India temple and bears eloquent testimony to the spirit and teachings of the Faith in India and throughout the world. A letter written on behalf of The Universal House of Justice to the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of India, states: As this beautiful edifice has achieved wide international fame, the publication of a tasteful and artistic rendering of it by a master photographer was very timely, indeed. This book, entitled "Forever in Bloom", will be a beautiful edition to any Bahá’í library, and a highly suitable gift for dignitaries and non-Bahá’í contacts on special occasions.

9" x 13", 127 pages, 102 photographs Time Books International

NEW PERSIAN TITLES

PER: Dawn-Breakers by Nabil HC $65.00

We are pleased to announce that Dawn-Breakers (A history of the early days of the Bahá’í Faith) is once again available in Persian. Included in this edition are 231 photographs, a detailed index, and references to the verses in the Qur'an.

5-3/4" x 8-3/4" Mir'át Publications

عشق بها Love of Bahá CS $9.00

A cassette of Persian chants and Bahá’í songs prepared for the enjoyment of the Friends during the Holy Year. Features the voice of Mrs. Goli Ataii, accompanied by piano, santour, tombak and violin.

Cro, tape, 60 minutes Local Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Garden Grove, CA

FORTHCOMING

Teacher Training Manual by the Ruhi Institute SC $11.95 CS $5.00

The courses of the Ruhi Institute are designed around paths of service. This book contains six courses designed to prepare youth or adults to teach children's classes. It is an English language version of the teacher training classes for children used in South America, India, and other countries throughout the world. The manual contains six courses in a workbook format. Three courses focus on the spiritual preparation of the teacher: prayer, understanding the Bahá’í writings, and life after death. The other three courses center on the education of children, addressing concepts of Bahá’í education, a set of fifteen lessons, and practical skills for children's teachers.

A cassette containing 15 children's songs for use with the lessons is also available separately.

8-1/2" x 11", 212pp., prologue, references Palabra Publications

Exploring a Framework for Moral Education by Lori McLaughlin Nogouchi, Holly Hanson, and Paul Lample SC $3.00

A well-written and thoughtful essay outlining a model for moral education. By exploring the writings of Bahá’u’lláh, the authors define moral purpose as an evolving organizing principle. They brilliantly define this principle without adopting a moralizing tone. The essay is divided into 5 main sections. the first section "briefly analyzes the changes now being experienced by societies throughout the world, which form the context within which new codes of morality and new processes of moral education will be developed. Subsequent sections investigate the task of moral education in relation to different aspects of individual development and explore some of the characteristics that one must possess in order to contribute to social progress and effect personal transformation."

6" x 9", 27pp., contents, foreword, preface, notes Palabra publications

Call to Remembrance compiled by Geoffry W. Marks

We are pleased to announce the forthcoming publication of a special edition being prepared for the Bahá’í World Congress. Call to Remembrance is a devotional book containing accounts, prayers, and meditations from Bahá’u’lláh’s own writings about the major events of His Life and Ministry, presented in chronological order. The purpose of the book is to imbue the reader with a deeper love for Bahá’u’lláh and His writings and to enable the individual believer to acquire a deeper understanding of Bahá’u’lláh’s Station, of the divine character of His life, of the nature and reason for His sufferings, and of how He responded to tests and tribulations. This item will be available from the Distribution Service immediately after the Bahá’í World Congress. No backorders can be taken at this time; we do not have final prices.

6" x 9", 308pp., contents, preface, glossary, chronology Bahá’í Publishing Trust of the United States

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

ORDER FORM

Ordered by: (Please print or type) Date

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Circle one: AMEX MasterCard VISA Check Money Order Account Number: Expiration Date: on Account

QTY TITLE COST AMOUNT (Export orders add 15% for shipping) TOTAL [Page 8]

RESTORATION

Mother Temple of West undergoes much-needed repair work

BY KEN BOWERS

In 1912 ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the Center of Bahá’u’lláh’s Covenant, undertook an historic journey across the United States to proclaim the Faith to the people of North America. One of the many highlights associated with His visit was the laying of the cornerstone for the first Bahá’í House of Worship of the Western world.

The Master personally presided over the ceremony, which took place on May 1 of that year. For the rest of His life He spent a great deal of effort explaining the importance of that House of Worship. Among His statements concerning its glorious future were these:

"Verily, the founding of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár will mark the inception of the Kingdom of God on earth. It is the evident standard waving in the center of that great continent of America.... Think not that this Temple will be like the hundred thousand gigantic Temples you see about you. Know ye that when this Temple of God shall be built in Chicago it will be to the spiritual body of the world what the inrush of the spirit is to the physical body of man, quickening it to its utmost parts and infusing a new Light and Power."

"To have it [the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár] built is most important. Some material things have spiritual effect and the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár is a material thing that will have a great effect upon the spirits of the people. Not only does the building of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár have an effect upon those who build it, but upon the whole world."

"The Mashriqu’l-Adhkár will become the center around which all these universal Bahá’í activities will be clustered. From that point of light, the spirit of teaching, spreading the Cause of God and promoting the teaching of God, will permeate to all parts of the world."

"When the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár with its accessories is established in the world, aside from its religious or spiritual influence, it will have a tremendous effect upon civilization. Aside from the religionists who will feel its influence, materialists will not be exempt therefrom. Moreover, it contains divine wisdoms, spiritual effects upon the intellects and thoughts. Subsequent to its erection these will become evident."

From these statements of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá it was clear to the believers that building the Temple was an undertaking of profound significance, for which no amount of sacrifice or effort was too great.

For the next four decades—years that witnessed two devastating World Wars and the Great Depression—the friends gave heroically of their energy and material means to help erect this unique edifice. After the passing of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá they were guided and inspired in their work by Shoghi Effendi, the Guardian of the Cause of God.

It is fascinating to read the messages from the Guardian that mention the House of Worship during the years leading up to its formal dedication in 1953. In them, one can get a sense of the tremendous emphasis he placed on it, can feel the excitement with which he greeted even the slightest progress in its construction, and can appreciate the sacrifices of the tiny community of believers who gave so much of themselves to make the vision of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá a reality.

Virtually four more decades have passed since the dedication of the Bahá’í House of Worship, "the sacredness of which," according to Shoghi Effendi, "neither the first Mashriqu’l-Adhkár of the Bahá’í world, nor any future House of Worship to be erected by the followers of Bahá’u’lláh, in any country, at any future date, can rival."

This brief period has already demonstrated that the House of Worship is the single greatest instrument for the propagation of the Faith in North America. It has also proven to be a source of spiritual strength and blessings for the Bahá’í community.

In return for these blessings, it is our responsibility to see that the House of Worship is maintained in prime condition, so that future generations, spanning at least a millennium, will also benefit from its influence.

In 1983 the National Spiritual Assembly began a project for the first major restoration of the House of Worship in its history. Encouraged by the guidance of the Universal House of Justice to "adopt, initiate and sustain a well-defined phased plan for the restoration of the Mother Temple of the West," the National Assembly invited 25 Bahá’ís with necessary expertise to examine the building and report on its short- and long-term needs.

The group of specialists, comprising architects, engineers, contractors and scientists, reported that the building was in excellent condition over-all, but that there were some areas of deterioration and damage that required immediate attention.

They presented the National Assembly with a list of priorities for repair and restoration, and added suggestions for ongoing maintenance. The National Assembly appointed six of these Bahá’ís to serve as its Temple Restoration Committee charged with putting the recommendations into action. At a later time the National Properties Committee was formed, which has dealt with the restoration work since then.

The most urgent order of business was to make repairs that would render the House of Worship strucuturally sound and Workmen put the finishing touches on an ornamental panel before transferral to the scaffolding for placement. The panels are made of a concrete-quartz mixture that was developed for the Temple restoration. It took several years of research and experimentation to duplicate the color and texture of the original mixture, as well as to construct the proper molds. Each finished panel weighs between 1,600 and 1,800 pounds.

An ornamental concrete panel is pictured being set into place in one of the nine bays of the crown of the Bahá’í House of Worship. Each bay holds seven such panels which are placed individually using a crane and scaffolding designed especially for the Temple Restoration Project. When the project is completed, this equipment will be stored and used as needed for future repair work. As of November the panel replacement was about half finished; it is expected that the rest of the work will be completed in about a year. [Page 9]...insulated from the elements. The chief adversary was water intrusion, which had resulted in corrosion of the exterior steel frame, staining and breakage in the skylight of the dome, and deterioration of the ornamental and interior concrete, especially around the gutter area of the building’s crown (just below the dome).

Although none of the damage represented an immediate threat to the structure, steps had to be taken to prevent further deterioration that could pose a hazard in the future.

Within 18 months the following steps were taken by the committee, working with outside consultants and experts:

• The exterior steel frame, not damaged enough to require replacing, was cleaned and coated to prevent further corrosion.
• A second layer of glass was added to the 50-year-old skylight, which could not be replaced without damage to the building.
• Roofing materials were replaced, as well as the copper lining in the gutters.
• Temporary measures were taken to forestall further damage to the ornamental and interior concrete.
• Strategic areas were resealed and painted.

The above steps accomplished the goal of achieving a watertight structure. The next challenge, and the most difficult, was to replace the concrete in the crown that had been severely damaged by water infiltration. Robert Armbruster, director of the House of Worship restoration project, commented on the problems encountered during this phase of the work:

"The most critical challenge was to develop a technique for duplicating the concrete ornamentation. The exterior of the House of Worship—in other words, the part we all see from the outside—is made of a mixture of concrete and quartz aggregate. This is what gives the building its unique apearance, and it contributes enormously to the feeling of spirituality one gets when looking at it.

"Also, the concrete panels are very ornate and relatively fragile. To duplicate and install them correctly is a very specialized and intricate process.

"In order to achieve the same effect," said Mr. Armbruster, "we had to come up with the same 'recipe' for the material that was originally used, so that the repaired areas would have the same coloring and texture as everywhere else. This meant using the correct size and color of quartz aggregate, the right kind of concrete, the right molds, the proper method of mixing, finishing and polishing, and the proper handling of a number of other technical difficulties.

"Moreover, we wanted to come up with a material that was far more durable than the original, as well as a feasible method for installation.

"The problem was that the technology of building has changed dramatically in the last 50 years, so that there is no concrete made that is precisely like what was then used. And, more importantly, not only is the company that made the original ornamentation out of business, but the quarry from which they got their quartz is now empty! We essentially had to start from scratch."

This phase, during which extensive research and development was undertaken, lasted several years. Finally, when a satisfactory process had been worked out, largely through trial and error, the repair phase began.

The first repairs were made to several steps that needed replacement. Then work on the crown began. Meanwhile, other restoration work was done.

Both the exterior and interior ornamentation were cleaned and treated against pollutants, soils, fungus and encrustations of rain-produced calcium phosphate; rust stains on the inner dome, also moisture induced, were removed; and major architectural changes in the Visitors' Center, including a new bookstore and video room, were made.

The work on the crown, involving the removal and replacement of damaged materials, is about half completed, and is expected to take another year to finish.

Other improvements scheduled for the immediate future are the installation of an elevator for the handicapped, lighting for the garden walkways, and minor repairs to the ornamentation. When these tasks are accomplished the restoration will be complete.

In the last nine years about $3.5 million has been spent to restore the House of Worship. It is estimated that another $2 million will be spent finishing the improvements.

"Once the restoration work is finished," says Mr. Armbruster, "we will have achieved a new beauty and structural soundness for the House of Worship. It really is a case of 'an ounce of prevention,' because we will also have made it much easier for the Bahá’ís of later generations to care for it. We now have in our hands the documenation necessary to make future repairs relatively easy and quick.

"We are also instituting a program whereby regular maintenance is carried out," he adds, "in the hope of averting serious problems in the future. This will save money in the long run, besides ensuring that the original building materials are preserved for as long as possible.

"To offer one example, the dome was not cleaned for the first time until 20 years after the building was dedicated. It was cleaned again during the early years of the restoration work, and was rinsed three years later. We believe that a regular program of rinsing will increase the interval between cleanings, as well as keep the House of Worship cleaner and healthier."

Mr. Armbruster points out that the Bahá’í House of Worship is not a building in the ordinary sense, since most buildings are designed to last only a couple of centuries at the most. The Temple, by contrast, was designed to last 1,000 years.

"A conscious factor in our work is the spiritual and historical importance of the House of Worship. Our maturity as a community, I feel, is reflected in our care of this sacred structure," he says.

"As we move into long-term maintenance we must remain constantly aware of the material needs of the building in light of its spiritual function. To be entrusted with the House of Worship is both a wonderful blessing and great responsibility for us. It is really quite unique."

Craftsmen being recruited to work on Temple

A team of craftsmen and technicians is being recruited to work year round as members of the House of Worship staff to provide ongoing care of the highest quality. A master tuckpointer and apprentice tuckpointer will carry out small ornamental concrete repairs, repointing, caulking and masonry cleaning. An engineering technician will perform inspections and supervise record-keeping, materials testing and development. This team will lead additional craftsmen during the warm-weather months.

If you or someone you know has skills in any of these areas, please contact the Human Resources Department at the Bahá’í National Center (phone 708-869-9039). Youth with career interests in crafts may wish to apply for summer positions. Other craftsmen, technicians and building professionals are encouraged to enter our refererence data base of talent by sending a letter or résumé.

Bahá’í Holy Days on which work should be suspended

• The Feast of Naw-Rúz, March 21
• The first day of Ridván, April 21
• The ninth day of Ridván, April 29
• The twelfth day of Ridván, May 2
• The anniversary of the declaration of the Báb, May 23
• The anniversary of the ascension of Bahá’u’lláh, May 29
• The anniversary of the martyrdom of the Báb, July 9
• The anniversary of the birth of the Báb, October 20
• The anniversary of the birth of Bahá’u’lláh, November 12

Image Captions

Above: One of the most critical aspects of the House of Worship restoration was the replacement of water-damaged interior concrete in the building's crown. In addition, steps were taken to prevent future deterioration from water seepage. Here a workman smooths freshly poured interior concrete to which ornamental panels are attached once the mixture has hardened.

Right: Cleaning the exterior concrete was a tedious and time-consuming but necessary component of the Temple restoration. All of the exterior and interior surfaces of the House of Worship were cleansed of pollutants such as soils, fungus, air- and rain-borne corrosives, and incrustations of calcium sulfate using a variety of specialized procedures. [Page 10]

CLASSIFIEDS

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

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

THE 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.

PIONEERING (HOMEFRONT)

HOMEFRONT pioneering opportunity for a self-starter committed to advancing the race unity teaching work in rural towns and among three Ojibwe Reservations surrounding Bemidji, Minnesota. Live-in situation available with a Bahá’í family. Contact the Bahá’ís of Clearwater County, c/o Jeff and Karen Jentz, Shevlin, MN 56676, or phone 218-785-2699.

SANTA MARIA, California-center of the very best-about 170 miles north of Los Angeles, 270 miles south of San Francisco and 10 miles from the Pacific coastline, with mild, smog-free year-round climate and brisk marine air. During this Holy Year we appeal to you to consider pioneering to Santa Maria-a perfect retirement area-or Guadalupe, 10 miles north. The Spiritual Assembly of Santa Maria invites you to consider either of these communities as a teaching and consolidation post. For more information, please write to the Spiritual Assembly of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, CA 93456.

THE SPIRITUAL Assembly of Linn County, Oregon, invites you to consider relocating to this area to help strengthen the community of 11 adults and help in the teaching work. We need energetic Bahá’ís-especially committed couples or families-who can open their home to firesides and teaching teams, and who are willing to drive 30 miles or more to attend functions, as we are a widely scattered community. Hispanic or Asian believers would help us to better exemplify the lovely diversity of humankind. Linn County, with its seat in Albany, is within commuting distance of Oregon State University, the University of Oregon, several community colleges, hospitals, and the state capital, Salem. We offer clean air, natural beauty, plenty of living space, a moderate cost of living, mild climate-and not as much rain as you might think! Act now! Write to Vonnie or Dan Lincoln, Lyons, OR 97358, or phone 503-859-2390 (evenings).

MELBOURNE, Florida, is seeking homefront pioneers. We have four active Bahá’ís and need more to strengthen the community. Melbourne is in a growing area with two junior colleges and one university (the Florida Institute of Technology). 60 miles from Walt Disney World on the Atlantic Ocean. Employment opportunities are primarily high-tech. The Kennedy Space Center is 35 miles north, and Miami 180 miles south. Melbourne has excellent schools and peaceful neighborhoods for your children. It is also a good place for retirees. If interested, please phone 407-259-5641 or write to the Bahá’í Community of Melbourne, c/o Siroos and Taraneh Motlagh, Melbourne, FL 32935.

PIONEERING (OVERSEAS)

EMPLOYMENT opportunities overseas: AFRICA-Lesotho: retired couple to serve as caretakers at the Bahá’í National Center. Malawi: district coordinator to supervise public health nurses, public health coordinator to manage intensive feeding center in refugee camps, sanitation and water coordinator to asses water sources, personnel management instructor to teach human resources and organizational behavior at the University of Malawi. Uganda: physicians. AMERICAS-Brazil: elementary school teachers, kindergarten teacher. Guatemala: caretaker couple. ASIA-Cambodia: field director for rural health and development projects, literacy trainer coordinator. Pakistan: women's health care nurse practitioner. Saipan: OB/GYN managers, operation supervisor, psychiatric care counselor, infection control coordinator, staff nurses. Sakhalin: teachers. AUSTRALASIA-Marshall Islands: Department of Nursing needs instructor in maternal and newborn nursing. EUROPE Romania: law professors to conduct seminars and workshops on commercial law. Czechoslovakia: lecturers with minimum of master's degree in sociology. MULTI-REGIONAL-university faculty for teaching positions on U.S. military bases overseas. 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).

WANTED: pioneers to Djibouti, Ethiopia and Zambia. French- or Arabic-speaking professionals, especially doctors, engineers or those who have enough capital to start businesses are welcome in Djibouti. Ethiopia needs university lecturers, doctors with specialization, and investors. English and Arabic are the main languages there. Zambia is looking mainly for investors; the government is encouraging those who wish to set up small businesses to come and do their investing there. The National Spiritual Assembly of Zambia has made a special appeal for traveling teachers to support its ongoing teaching initiatives. If you are interested in any of these possibilities, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039, or FAX 708-869-0247, Attn: Office of Pioneering).

URGENT NEED: The School of Nations in Brasilia, Brazil, needs an executive director, a kindergarten teacher and two elementary school teachers. For more information, 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).

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: Emilie Moore, Evelyn K. Moore (died Cambridge, MA, 1936), Marie B. Moore (died New York City, 1939), Grace and Thomas Morales, Elsa Moreau-Chaslon, Buena J. Morgan (died Des Moines, IA, 1968), Lillian Morgan, and Charlotte Moriarty. 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 and 8-17. The sets are complete except for missing Vol. 7. They 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

AN OPPORTUNITY to be of service to the National Spiritual Assembly: NSA Properties Inc. is looking to purchase a 7-9 passenger van with automatic transmission (new or nearly new). The van will be used to transport members of the National Assembly and visitors to the Bahá’í National Center. For more information, Please contact Heather Marshman, NSA Properties Inc. Phone 708-256-6552.

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.

TO BAHÁ’ÍS with multiple chemical sensitivities (MCS)-also known as environmental illness (EI): if you are interested in exchanging scientific/medical information or engaging in networking and emotional support, please contact Linda Nedderman, Newport, RI 02840 (phone 401-848-0205). I would also like to hear from any Gulf War veterans with "unexplained" medical symptoms and any Bahá’í physicians who are engaged in treating MCS and/or other victims of chemical poisoning. Any Bahá’í physician interested in obtaining medical literature on MCS is welcome to correspond.

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.

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, 2526 W. Vliet St., Milwaukee, WI 53205.

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.

TO GLEAN more information, would like to establish contact with the Bahá’í family who held a special recognition event for their son's school teachers on his graduation from high school. A wonderful idea whose example we would like to follow. Please phone Inge Marcial collect, 305-294-2060, or FAX 305-294-7931.

THE ROBERT Hayden Poetry Fellowship, created by the acclaimed poet's widow, Erma Hayden, along with the Louhelen Bahá’í School, gives poets an opportunity to work on their writing for three to six weeks at the Louhelen School from May to September of the year in which the fellowship is awarded. Candidates must be poets in the early stages of their careers, irrespective of age and with little or no published work to their credit. The fellowship provides room, board and a small stipend for the duration of one's residency at Louhelen. Recipients may take part in the programs and life of Louhelen as much or as little as they choose, but are asked to give at least one poetry reading while in residence. Applications for the fellowship are received each January; manuscripts will be reviewed in February, and the 1993 recipient's name announced in March. For more information about how to apply, please contact the Robert Hayden Fellowship Steering Committee, Louhelen Bahá’í School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423, or phone 313-653-5033. [Page 11]

World News

In September, the Hand of the Cause of God Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum traveled to London to open an exhibition of Bahá’í manuscripts at the British Museum. During her two-week visit she also met with the Bahá’ís, members of the royalty and aristocracy, representatives of many governments, the news media, and a number of prominent people. She was interviewed twice on BBC Radio, once on a popular local program heard throughout the United Kingdom, and on the BBC World Service program on religion, “Focus on Faith.” The Hand of the Cause met with the National Spiritual Assembly on September 12, and toured the newly decorated National Bahá’í Center at Rutland Gate. That afternoon she spoke to an estimated 1,500 Bahá’ís who had come from all over the United Kingdom to see her. A private dinner was arranged for Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhiyyih Khánum to meet Princess Helen of Romania, the great-granddaughter of Queen Marie, fulfilling a mutually expressed wish and resulting in a warm friendship. On September 14 a banquet was held in Rúhiyyih Khánum’s honor at the Savoy Hotel. Among the guests were Princess Helen; Ambassadors to the UK from Czechoslovakia, France, Panama and Romania; High Commissioners from Malawi and Uganda; and the Cultural Counselor from the Canadian High Commission. Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum officially opened the exhibition of Bahá’í manuscripts on September 15. The 180 guests were received by Dr. Sheila Canbe of the British Museum’s Department of Oriental Antiquities, who paid tribute to the Bahá’ís and the Bahá’í manuscripts. The chairman for the evening spoke to the guests about the centenary of the Faith, then introduced the Hand of the Cause who recalled the words of Bahá’u’lláh to Prof. E.G. Browne, “We desire but the good of the world and the happiness of the nations....” The program was filmed by the BBC and reported in major newspapers. Amatu’l-Bahá was the guest of honor at a luncheon at the Law Society, which was attended by many distinguished lawyers and philanthropists, and on September 18 was received by His Royal Highness Prince Michael of Kent at Kensington Palace. During the 25 minute visit, she presented him with a copy of “The Promise of World Peace,” which he asked her to sign. A few days later, a private dinner was held for Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum, the Chinese Ambassador and his wife. He was charmed by her, and mentioned several times his favorable impression of the Bahá’ís. Before returning to the Holy Land on September 23, the Hand of the Cause was received at the Home Office in London by the Minister of State, the Earl Ferrers, P.C., who welcomed her on behalf of Prime Minister John Major and asked her to tell him about the Faith. The minister asked intelligent questions, and expressed both delight and surprise at some of the answers.

The Bokul Teaching Campaign started last July in Bangladesh. In less than four weeks, 16 youth from the Rajshahi area had visited 31 villages, and 114 people had embraced the Cause. The campaign is dedicated to the memory of Mahbubur Rahman Bokul who accepted the Faith in his teens, was an extremely active teacher, but died at the age of 26. During his last days in the hospital, as long as he was conscious, he presented the Message to doctors, nurses, other patients and their visiting relatives. After his death, people of various religions held services for him, something heretofore unheard of in those villages. The Bokul campaign is continuing with young Bahá’ís including some of Rahman Bokul’s relatives traveling to remote villages to teach the Faith.

A luncheon hosted by the Bahá’í community of Auckland, New Zealand, brought together 80 invited women guests with 30 Bahá’í women to honor the Bahá’í heroine, Táhirih. Among the guests were members of Parliament, magazine editors, academics and authors. Judge Heather Simpson, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly, presented an account of the life and vision of Táhirih. She discussed the general life-style of women in Persia at that time, describing Táhirih, with her education and abilities, as “a rare phenomenon” of that age.

As a result of teaching campaigns held immediately before and after this year’s National Convention in Bulgaria, five new local Spiritual Assemblies were formed there. They are in Smolyan, Haskovo, Aitos, Rousse and Turgovishte. Meanwhile, a recent teaching campaign in Mikhaylovgrad brought about 25 people into the Faith.

After learning that his deceased parents were Bahá’ís, a 10-year-old boy in Amalika, Malawi, decided he would like to perform some service for the Faith, so he built a Bahá’í Center in the village—all by himself. The head of the village invited representatives of the Spiritual Assembly of Amalika to attend a gathering at the new Center held last July.

The first major event to be co-sponsored by the Bahá’í community and the government of Ghana was held recently at the Teachers’ Hall in Accra. The event was a symposium entitled “After Rio—Finding Roles in Sustaining Ghana’s Environment.” Attending were more than 100 people including representatives of government departments, non-governmental organizations, and the public.

“Bahá’í Children of the World,” a group of 13 children of various ethnic backgrounds who live in Macau, performed twice in Hong Kong in September, generating widespread publicity for the Faith. The Chinese-language newspaper Daily Express published an article about the group on September 6, and another newspaper, Wah Kiu Yat Poh, published an article the following day headlined “Bahá’í Children Performing for Peace.” The group’s second show, held September 6, drew an audience of 100. One of Hong Kong’s leading television stations has invited the group to perform at its studio in Clear Water Bay.

The Minister of Agriculture, His Excellency Kebatlamang P. Morake, was the guest of honor at a recent meeting held to proclaim the Name of Bahá’u’lláh in Selibi Phikwe, Botswana. Auxiliary Board member Val Rhind addressed the group of 50, the majority of whom were not Bahá’ís, on the topic “World Peace—Dream or Reality?”

The state minister of Tourism and Environmental Development officially opened a Chinese Symposium sponsored by the State Bahá’í Council of Sabah, Malaysia, whose theme was “Marching Toward a New World Order.” More than 100 adults, youth and children took part in the meeting.

Susie Wong Ling Hiew, a young Bahá’í from Singapore, undertook a recent teaching trip to Andhra Pradesh, India, helping with local projects, contacting Bahá’í families, and introducing the Faith to local dignitaries. As a result of her efforts, a new local Spiritual Assembly was formed in a newly opened locality, Pathipadu. A reporter for a newspaper in Hyderabad interviewed her, and the paper published an article entitled “For the Love of Mankind.”

A REMINDER

The U.S. Bahá’í Refugee Office would like to remind the friends of the National Spiritual Assembly’s standing policy that local Bahá’í communities welcome Southeast Asian Bahá’í newcomers to the U.S. whether or not they have credentials from overseas.

Please feel free to include these friends in your Bahá’í community activities. Bahá’í membership transfer/enrollment forms for Southeast Asian newcomers are available on request from: U.S. Bahá’í Refugee Office, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039, ext. 216).

The largest kind of excavator available in Israel is transforming the face of Mount Carmel as it cuts into the mountainside to prepare the site for the Center for the Study of the Sacred Texts and of the extension to the International Archives building as work on the Arc Project moves steadily forward at the Bahá’í World Center.

MASA’IL B.E. 149/ DECEMBER 12, 1992 [Page 12]

THE MINISTRY OF THE CUSTODIANS

ابلاغیه دارالانشاء بيت العدل اعظم

خطاب به عموم محافل روحانی ملی درباره انتشار کتاب دورۀ قیادت حارسان امر الهی مورخ ٢٤ سپتامبر ۱۹۹۲

یاران عزيز الهی

بيت العدل اعظم با کمال شعف به اطلاع یاران عزیز الهی میرسانند که ایادی امرالله حضرت امة البهاء روحیه خانم بنا بر تقاضای معهد اعلی پیامهای عمده عصبة جليلة ایادی امرالله و مراسلات هیئت مجللة ایادی امرالله مقیم ارض اقدس را که در فاصله سالهای ۱۹۵۷ تا ۱۹۶۳ مرقوم شده در مجلدی تحت عنوان فوق الذکر جمع آوری فرموده و مقدمه ای بر آن افزوده اند که موقعیت تاریخی وقایع سالهای بحرانی مزبور را روشن می سازد

انتظار میرود که این کتاب که تقریباً دارای ۵۰۰ صفحه است تا اواخر ماه نوامبر ۱۹۹۲ در دسترس یاران قرار گیرد.

این سند پرارزش که مربوط به سنین اولیه پس از صعود حضرت ولی امر الله می باشد، حاکی از اقدامات حضرات ایادی امرالله در سبیل حفظ وحدت امر الهی و هدایت عالم بهائی به فتح و ظفر نهائی در جهاد کبیر اکبر روحانی است. معهد اعلی مخصوصاً بسیار مسرورند که این اثر نفیس در این سال مقدس انتشار می یابد.

با تحیات ابدع ابهی دارالانشاء بيت العدل اعظم

AMATU’L-BAHÁ AT THE BRITISH MUSEUME

به ۱۸۰ نفری که در این مراسم شرکت داشتند خوش آمد گفت ناظم مراسم از صدمین سال امر سخن گفت سپس روحیه خانم را معرفی کرد سازمان بی بی سی از این مراسم فیلم می گرفت و خبر این رویداد در روزنامه های اصلی درج گردید.

سفر امة البهاء به لندن

در سپتامبر سال جاری امة البهاء روحیه خانم برای افتتاح غرفه ای از نمایشگاه موزه بریتانیا به لندن رفتند. نمایشگاه مذکور حاوی نسخه های خطی آثار امری است.

سفر روحیه خانم دو هفته به طول انجامید در این مدت حضرت خانم با اشراف انگلیسی و اعضای خاندان سلطنتی و نمایندگان دولتهای گوناگون و ارباب جرائد و گروهی از افراد برجسته دیدار کردند.

همچنین امة البهاء دو بار با رادیوی بی بی سی مصاحبه داشتند یکی از این دو برنامه در سراسر انگستان پخش میشود و دیگری برنامه ای درباره دین بهائی خواهد شد.

روز ۱۲ سپتامبر روحیه خانم با محفل روحانی ملی انگلستان ملاقات کردند و از مرکز بهائی که به تازگی تزئینات جدید یافته است دیدار فرمودند بعد از ظهر آن روز نیز در جلسه ای که در آن ۱۵۰۰ تن از احباء از سراسر انگلستان حضور یافته بودند، سخنرانی کردند.

امة البهاء در يك ضیافت خصوصی با شاهزاده هلن نتیجه ملکه رومانی شام صرف کردند. این ضیافت روز ١٤ سپتامبر در هتل ساوی Savoy بر پا شد. دیگر میهمانان عبارت بودند از سفیران چکسلواکی و فرانسه و پاناما و رومانی در انگلستان نمایندگان عالی رتبه مالاوی و اوگاندا، مشاور فرهنگی کانادا.

روز ۱۵ سپتامبر روحیه خانم رسماً غرفه مخصوص نسخه های خطی را افتتاح کردند. دکتر شیلا کنبی Sheila Canbe یکی از متصدیان موزه بریتانیا به بیت العدل اعظم و به ۱۸۰ نفری که در این مراسم شرکت داشتند خوش آمد گفت.

روز ۱۸ سپتامبر روحیه خانم با شاهزاده مایکل دیدار داشتند و در خلال آن نسخه ای از بیانیه بیت العدل اعظم الهى، وعدة صلح جهانی را به او تقدیم کردند.

همچنین حضرت خانم با سفیر چین و همسرش و نیز با نمایندۀ نخست وزیر انگلستان ملاقات کردند و در هر دیدار مذاکرات سودمندی در میان حاضران دست داد.

84TH NATIONAL CONVENTION

هشتاد و چهارمین کانونشن ملی از ۲۰ تا ۲۳ می سال ۱۹۹۳ در مشرق الاذکار ایالت متحده در ويلمت منعقد خواهد شد.

بغیر از نمایندگانی که در کانونشن شرکت می کنند حدود ۲۰۰ نفر دیگر نیز خواهند توانست در جلسات کانونشن حضور یابند. دوستانی که مایل به شرکت در کانونشن ملی باشند، می توانند از ٤ ژانویه ۱۹۹۳ جای خود را رزرو فرمایند. بعد از تاریخ مذکور کسانی که زودتر نام نویسی کنند، اولویت خواهند داشت. به تقاضای علاقه مندان به شرکت در کانونشن ملی به ترتیب مهر پستخانه در پشت پاکت ترتیب اثر داده خواهد شد. لازم به یادآوری است که فقط از طریق نام نویسی قبلی میتوان در جلسات کانونشن حضور یافت.

اطلاعات مربوط به هتل در شماره های آینده "آمریکن Bahá’í" به آگاهی یاران خواهد رسید.

از علاقه مندان درخواست میشود تقاضای شرکت در کانونشن ملی را به نشانی زیر ارسال فرمایند:

National Convention Seating Baha’i National Center Wilmette, IL. 60091

RESTORATION OF THE HOUSE OF WORSHIP

هنگامی که حضرت ‘Abdu’l-Bahá در سال ۱۹۱۲ برای ابلاغ کلام الهی به ایالات متحده سفر فرمودند، سنگ بنای نخستین مشرق الاذكار غرب را نیز به دست مبارک در ویلمت یکی از شهرکهای حومه شیکاگو بنا نهادند.

حدود ٤٠ سال پس از آن تاریخ بنای مشرق الاذکار انجام گرفت و ساختمان ام المعابد غرب رسماً در سال ۱۹۵۳ افتتاح شد از آن زمان تا کنون نیز حدود ٤٠ سال میگذرد در این ٤ دهه مشرق الاذکار سهم بزرگی در رابطه با ابلاغ امر مبارك داشته است هزاران نفر از آن دیدار کرده اند بسیاری از مردم از طریق مشرق الاذکار با امر بهائی آشنا شده اند به راستی "مُبلّغ صامت" اسم بامسمانی برای این ساختمان تاریخی بوده است.

جامعة بهائی نیز در قبال ساختمان مشرق الاذكار مسؤولیتهائی بر عهده دارد که مهم ترین آن نگهداری و زیباسازی و سعی در انجام تعمیراتی است که میباید برای ساختمانی بدین بزرگی و اهمیت صورت گیرد.

در سال ۱۹۸۳ محفل روحانی ملی برنامه ای برای تعمیرات ساختمان مشرق الاذكار تهیه کرد. از ٢٥ نفر از احبای متخصص در امور ساختمانی دعوت شد که آن را بازرسی کنند و گزارشی برای نیازهای کوتاه مدت و دراز مدت آن تهیه نمایند. محفل روحانی ملی برای ترمیم ساختمان مشرق الاذکار لجنه ای مرکب از ٦ نفر از این گروه تشکیل داد که از آن زمان مسؤول امور ترمیم بوده است.

مهم ترین کاری که میباید بشود تعمیرات مربوط به تحکیم ساختاری و پر کردن درزها بود. آب و هوای محل بزرگترین اشکال را تولید می کند نفوذ آب به داخل قطعات سیمانی بدنه باعث شده بود که روی قالب فولادی ساختمان زنگ بزند و شیشه بالای گنبد را چرك رنگ کند و بشکند و بتنهای تزئینی و داخلی بویژه قسمت زیر گنبد را خراب کند.

اقدامات زیر در يك سال و نیم بعد صورت گرفت:

• قالب فولادی بیرون ساختمان تمیز شد و رویه مخصوصی برای جلوگیری از زنگ زدن بر آن زده شد.
• يك پارچه شیشهای جدید بر روی قسمت شیشه ای بالای گنبد نصب شد.
• مواد عایق روی گنبد و شیارهای آبرو زیر آن از نو ریخته شد.
• اقدامات لازم برای جلوگیری از خرابی بیشتر تزئینات و بتن ها صورت گرفت.

سخت ترین مرحله این تعمیرات تعویض قطعات تزئینی سیمانی روی گنبد بود برای این کار می بایست مخلوطی از سیمان و سنگ ریزه های مخصوص (کوارتز) که در ساختن مشرق الاذکار به کار رفته تهیه شود. تهیه این مواد چند سال طول کشید تا سرانجام پس از آزمایشهای گوناگون مخلوط قابل قبول به دست آمد و مرحله جدید آغاز شد.

نخست تزئینات داخلی و خارجی ساختمان پاك شد و سپس روی آن موادی برای جلوگیری از زنگ زدن و رشد قارچ و دیگر مواد آلوده کننده زده شد. لکه های زنگ که بر سطح درون گنبد بود، پاك شد. همچنین تغییراتی اساسی در طبقه تحتانی که از جمله آنها کتاب فروشی جدید و اتاقی برای دیدن نوار ویدیو است صورت گرفت. کار مربوط به سیمان روی گنبد نیمه تمام است و تا حدود يك سال دیگر تکمیل خواهد شد.

مخارج این تغییرات در سال گذشته بالغ بر ۳/۵ میلیون دلار بوده است. تخمین زده شده است که حدود ۲ میلیون دلار دیگر برای اتمام تعمیرات لازم خواهد بود.

هشتمین کنفرانس بهائی گرند کنیون

۲۸-۲۵ دسامبر ۱۹۹۲ در هتل Hyatt Regency در فینیکس ایالت اریزونا تشکیل میشود.

موضوع اصلی: Bahá’u’lláh سلطان جلال نام نامیش را شهره آفاق کنیم.

تلفن برای ثبت نام و کسب اطلاع ۶۰۲/۳۷۵۹۹۵۱ [Page 13]

سِرّ فدا

THE SACRIFICE OF THE PUREST BRANCH

یکی از اموری که در تاریخ ادیان بزرگ دیده می‌شود، فداکاری و از خودگذشتگی پیروان آن، بویژه پیروان نخستین آن ادیان است. در هر يك از دوره‌های دینی بوده‌اند کسانی که صفت فداکاری به معنای کامل آن در ایشان پدید آمده است، کسانی که از هر چه هست گذشته‌اند و جان و مال و جاه را فدای آرمان‌های روحانی خود کرده‌اند.

بالاترین نمونه‌های این فداکاران، نَفَس مظاهر امرند که بعنوان الگوی اهل ایمان فداکاری را به درجه‌ای ورای پندار و کردار آدمیان در خود ظاهر ساخته و بدین ترتیب مؤمنان را درس از خودگذشتگی آموخته‌اند.

فداکاری عاشقان را البته ثمر و اثری هست. این ثمر، به تعبیر اهل بهاء، ماندگاری دین در میان مردمان است. بطور کلی بقای هر يك از ادیان، سوای نیروی روحانی هر يك، بر عهده و در گرو فداکاری همۀ جانبازان و از خودگذشتگان بوده است. با این حال در هر کدام از دین‌های گوناگون شخصیت یگانه‌ای وجود داشته که سرخیل پاکبازان و جانبازان بوده است. این وجود جانباز سرافراز در دور بهائی همانا غصن اطهر، میرزا مهدی است.

حضرت عبدالبهاء، در کتاب "مفاوضات" ‎سختی هائی سختی‌هایی‎ را که حضرت بهاءالله بدان دچار شدند، چنین برشمرده‌اند: "... به کرّات و مرّات صدمات شدیده خوردند و در هر دقیقه در معرض فدا بودند و در زیر زنجیر افتادند و در زیر زمین مسجون گشتند و اموال باهظۀ موروثه کلّ به تالان و تاراج رفت و از مملکتی به مملکتی چهار مرتبه سرگون شدند و نهایت در سجن اعظم قرار یافتند...."

لطمة دیگری که بر هیکل مبارك وارد شد، واقعۀ شهادت فرزند برومندشان، غصن اطهر بود. میرزا مهدی برادر تنی حضرت عبدالبهاء، و از ایشان كوچكتر بود. در زمانی که حضرت بهاءالله به بغداد تبعید شدند، میرزا مهدی ۵ ساله بود، بدین جهت او را در طهران نزد بستگان مبارك گذاشتند. پس از اینکه حضرت بهاءالله از مهاجرت خود به کوه‌های کردستان بازگشتند، میرزا مهدی از طهران به بغداد منتقل شد و به پدر بزرگوار خود پیوست.

غصن اطهر از آن تاریخ به بعد در سرگونی‌های حضرت بهاءالله همراه ایشان بود. شب و روز آرام نداشت و به خدمت جمال مبارك و همراهان می‌پرداخت. از جملۀ کاتبان وحی بود و الواح مبارك را تحریر می‌کرد. هنگامی که از خدمات روزانه فراغت می‌یافت، خلوتی می‌جست و به راز و نیاز با جانان می‌پرداخت، به جذبه می‌افداخت و در دریای مهر ایزدی غوطه می‌خورد.

میرزا مهدی در غروب یکی از روزهای سال ۱۸۷۰ پس از اجرای خدمات خود به رسم همیشگی قصد گوشه‌ای کرد تا به مناجات پردازد. بدین منظور بر فراز بام قشله رفت و به دعا مشغول شد. راز و نیاز می کرد و مناجات می‌خواند. رفته رفته جذبة عشق از خود بیخودش کرد، سکون و قرارش ربوده شد. به پا خاست و به قدم زدن پرداخت. ذکر می‌گفت و راه می‌رفت. راه می‌رفت و ذکر می‌گفت. ناگاه اختیارش از دست رفت و از غایت بیخودی از حفره‌ای که برای روشنائی اتاق زیرین تعبیه شده بود به زیر افتاد و بدن پاکش با صندوق چوبی که در همان اتاق قرار داشت، تصادم کرد و اعضای بدنش صدمۀ شدیدی یافت.

حضرت بهاءالله و اهل عائلۀ مبارك از اتاق بیرون آمدند و غصن اطهر را دردمند مجروح یافتند. میرزا مهدی همواره آرزو داشت که درهای زندان بر روی احبائی که می‌خواستند حضرت بهاءالله را دیدار کنند، گشوده شود. این بود که در ساعات آخر زندگی از ساحت مبارك استدعا کرد که جانش را بعنوان فدیه‌ای در راه گشوده شدن درهای زندان بپذیرند. حضرت بهاءالله تقاضای فداکارانة فرزند خود را قبول فرمودند. ۲۲ ساعت پس از آنکه حادثة به زیر افتادن غصن اطهر رخ داد، هنگامی که ۲۲ سال از عمرش در این جهان می‌گذشت، روح مبارکش به جهان ایزدی صعود فرمود. جسد مطهرش به همراهی مأموران دولتی به خارج شهر منتقل و در محلی نزدیک مقبرۀ نبی صالح به خاك سپرده شد.

۷۰ سال بعد از این واقعه حضرت ولی عزیز امرالله ‎رمس جسم‎ غصن اطهر و مادر ایشان، حضرت ورقة علیا را از آن محل به دامنة کوه کرمل در ظل مقام حضرت اعلی و در جوار بهائیه خانم، خواهر غصن اطهر، انتقال دادند و روی آن بنای زیبائی برپا فرمودند.

حضرت بهاءالله در چندین لوح از صعود این فرزند دلبند یاد فرموده‌اند. در مناجاتی که در همان دوران نازل شده می‌فرمایند: «أی ربّ، قَدّمتُ ما اَعطَیتَنی لِحیوهِ العِباد و اتّحادِ مَن فی البلاد.» (مضمون بیان مبارك به فارسی: پروردار، آن را که به من عطا کرده بودی برای زندگانی بندگان و یگانگی مردم جهان فدا کردم.)

حضرت ولی عزیز امرالله در توقیعی که به مناسبت انتقال ‎رمس جسم‎ غصن اطهر به تاریخ ۲۵ دسامبر سال ۱۹۳۹ صادر فرموده‌اند، می‌فرمایند:

«ای یاران الهی، ملاحظه نمائید این بیان در این مناجات چه مقدار عظیم است و این رتبه و مقام چه حدی رفیع و جلیل. به نص صریح می‌فرمایند: فدیت ما اعطیتنی لحیوه العباد و اتحاد من فی البلاد. احیای عالم و اتحاد امم که از خصائص این دور عظیم است، و اعلان وحدت عالم انسانی که اعظم و اول مبدأ این امر اقوم است، و سراپردۀ آن باید مین بعد در قطب عالم امکان، پس از اتمام انقلابات حالیۀ جهان، بر حسب نبوات انبیای عظام و بشارات مسطوره در الواح قیمة مالك انام مرتفع گردد، از برکت شهادت غصن مقدس ریان جمال رحمن در عالم امکان تحقق خواهد یافت.

همچنانکه در ادوار سابقه، یعنی در دور حضرت ابراهیم، اسمعیل؛ و در دور حضرت مسیح، نفس مقدس آن حضرت؛ و در دور فرقان، حضرت سیدالشهداء؛ و در کور بیان، حضرت ربّ اعلی، روحی لرشحات دمهم الاطهر فداء، حاضر و مهیای فدا جهت تطهیر و استخلاص اهل عالم گشتند و به قربانگاه فدا شتافتند، در این کور بدیع حضرت غصن الله الاطهر، به فرمودة جمال قدم و اسم اعظم، جام شهادت را بنوشید تا باب لقا بر وجه اهل بهاء مفتوح گردد و وحدت عالم انسانی اعلان گردد و عالم ادنی آئینة ملکوت ابهی شود. تعالی تعالی مقامه المعظّم المتعزّز المتعالی الباذخ المنیع....»

مجله هنر

A NEW PERSIAN MAGAZINE

به تازگی چند نفر از عزیزان هنردوست دست به انتشار مجله‌ای به نام "مجله هنر" زده‌اند. مطالبی که در شماره نخست این مجله ـ که فقط دو صفحه است ـ آمده، هدف این نشریه نوزاد را بازگو می‌کند:

"... هدف و تعهد مجلۀ هنر رسیدن به سطح بالاتری از فکر و احساس هنری در زندگی روزمرۀ يك يك ما بهائیان ایرانی خواهد بود. سعی می‌کنیم به زبان ساده در این مجله صحبت کنیم که قابل فهم برای عدة وسیع‌تری از دوستان باشد. بیشتر شاید به زبان احساس صحبت کنیم تا به زبان ادبیات.... قولی که این مجله خواهد داد این است که... تا جای ممکن صمیمی و باصداقت باشیم.... اگر انتقادی در این مجله مطرح می‌شود، از سر عشق خواهد بود و قصد کوبیدن و مچ‌گیری نخواهد داشت. نیتمان صاف است و منظورمان همانست که می‌گوئیم و معنی نهفته‌ای پشت جمله‌های چاپ شده نخواهد بود. حمایت فکری و فرستادن مطالب و مقالات از طرف شما خوانندگان یکی از ارکان اصلی و وجودی این مجله خواهد بود. این مطالب می‌تواند شعر، خط فارسی، داستان‌های کوتاه، نمایشنامه، نقاشی، طراحی، طنز، خبر و یا هر مسأله‌ای که در ذهن شما رابطه‌ای با هنر دارد، باشد.... میزان مطرح کردن مطالب در مجله هنری بودن آنهاست و نه چیز دیگر. سانسور هم به معنای جلوگیری از ارائه و مطرح کردن عقاید وجود نخواهد داشت. ولی حق ویرایش را به خود می‌دهیم.... می‌خواهیم فضائی ایجاد کنیم که بتوانیم با هم حرف بزنیم، صادقانه انتقاد کنیم، و همدیگر را احساس کنیم و به فضاهای ظریف روحی و عاطفی و انسانی که در وجود يك يك ماست، برسیم. مجلة هنر فعلاً مجانی به هر آدرسی به تعداد فرستاده خواهد شد. لطفاً دوستان خود را از ما باخبر سازید."

Honar, P. O. Box 11151, Berkeley, CA. 94704

انجمن ادب و فرهنگ ایرانی

PERSIAN ARTS AND CULTURE ASSOCIATION

در شماره‌های پیشین این نشریه به آگاهی دوستان رسید که سومین کنفرانس انجمن ادب و فرهنگ ایرانی از غروب روز پنجشنبه اول اپریل تا ظهر یکشنبه ۴ اپریل سال ۱۹۹۳ در شهر مانت ایگل Monteagle در ایالت تنسی برگزار خواهد شد. اطلاعات مربوط به محل اقامت در زیر درج می‌شود:

مجمع ادب در مرکز کنفرانس دوبوز DuBose Conference Center منعقد خواهد شد. این مرکز دارای اتاق‌های خصوصی و همچنین خوابگاه‌های چندنفری است. قیمت اتاق به قرار زیر است:

اتاق‌های خصوصی در Bishops’ Hall يك نفره شبی ۳۳ دلار دونفره شبی ۵۰ دلار

اتاق‌های خوابگاهی در Claiborne Hall يك نفره شبی ۲۴ دلار دو نفر شبی ۳۵ دلار

ترتیب رزرو کردن اتاق در شمارۀ بعد با آگاهی علاقه‌مندان خواهد رسید.

برابر قراری که با مسؤولان محل کنفرانس گذاشته شده است، شرکت‌کنندگان باید در محل کنفرانس غذا میل فرمایند. قیمت سه وعده غذا برای هر نفر در هر روز ۲۰ دلار خواهد بود. [Page 14]to the National Assembly for the friends to give one way or another.

There are two ways of "earmarking." One is to restrict the use of the gift for a certain purpose; the second is to ask one institution to pass a gift along to another on the donor's behalf, as, for example, when an Assembly contributes to the Continental Bahá’í Fund via the National Fund, or when a friend gives to the Arc Projects Fund via her or his local fund.

Confusion on this matter stems from the fact that the word "earmarking" is used in both these situations although they seem to be somewhat different in concept and practice. A different term for the second method might be "directed contribution," since the receiving institution's hands are not tied in any way—it never "owned" the funds in the first place. The important thing is for the giver to be clear in his or her own mind about the purpose and spirit animating the gift, and to indicate that purpose to the institution.

At the present time, the system for processing contributions does not allow for regular totals of Fund contributions by locality, hence the National Assembly's continued emphasis, with regard to Assembly goals, that only unrestricted contributions by the local body itself "count" toward the committed amount.

The choice before the believers is not an "either/or" proposition; it should not be a question of giving either to the National or the local Fund. It is both spiritually and economically vital for individuals and institutions to support all the Funds of the Faith, but the mechanics of giving are secondary in importance.

Ideally, the believers will not simply re-apportion their contributions to accommodate a new program. The National Assembly hopes the believers will regularly consider their needs, priorities and capacities in light of the current opportunities facing the Cause, and effect an increase both in the number of givers and in the amounts given.

WHAT IS THE AMERICAN COMMUNITY'S PATTERN OF BEHAVIOR IN GIVING?

Today, there appear to be about 40,000 believers who contribute to the Funds. Their accomplishments are truly commendable, and many of them sacrifice mightily out of their love for Bahá’u’lláh. On average, this group gives roughly 2-3 percent of its income to the Faith, while some individuals give 5 percent and even 10 percent of their income.

These facts appear to indicate that there are factors beyond economic conditions that hold us back. Information gleaned in meetings and correspondence indicates that some of the friends give a nominal amount that does not change year after year. Others are upset by some action of the local or National Assembly, and give instead to one of the other funds. Still others feel that money is not a part of the spiritual life, or that discussing finances is too delicate a matter. The uncertainties of the present time have paralyzed some, while others worry about the number of different financial needs and requests.

Careful reading of the available guidance will help each person decide how much weight to give each of these concerns. What we cannot do is avoid making a commitment. For its part, the National Spiritual Assembly considers money a tool for achieving the goals of the Faith, hence it tries to discuss it with the same openness as teaching or race unity activities.

THE EIGHTH ANNUAL GRAND CANYON BAHÁ’Í CONFERENCE

EMBLAZON HIS NAME BAHÁ’U’LLÁH THE KING OF GLORY

DECEMBER 25-28 1992 HYATT REGENCY HOTEL PHOENIX, ARIZONA

Confirmed Speakers: Dr. Suheil Bushrui Counselor Dr. William Roberts Dr. Jennah Khodadad Dr. Lameh Fananapazir

Featuring: Hooshmand Aghili K.C. Porter John Cook Eternal Flame Grand Canyon Bahá’í Choir and many more

Extensive Youth Workshops Conference opens Friday Dec. 25th at 09:00 AM

To receive registration forms and more information call GCBC hotline at: (602) 375-9951

If you have any articles which can be donated for the silent auction to raise funds for The ARC Project Please Contact Mr. Sal Hedayati at: (602) 991-9326

LETTERS

"The shining spark of truth cometh forth only after the clash of differing opinions."—‘Abdu’l-Bahá

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

Letters should be as brief as possible (a 250-word maximum is suggested) and are subject to editing for length and style. Please address all letters to The Editor, The American Bahá’í, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

Thanks from Marion Jack IV campaign

The following letter was written to the Bahá’ís of Los Angeles who are among the sponsors of the Marion Jack IV teaching campaign:

Dear Bahá’í Friends:

The Regional Spiritual Assembly of Russia, Georgia and Armenia has asked me to convey to you the profound gratitude we feel to each and all of you for the tremendous contribution that the Marion Jack project has made to proclaiming our beloved Faith over the length and breadth of Siberia and the Far North and East of Russia.

We appreciate the overwhelming effort and spiritual and physical stamina that has gone into making this wonderful project successful; God willing it may become a long-running effort.

The Regional Spiritual Assembly is especially happy about the way the Marion Jack IV group has set an example of service and sacrifice for our new Bahá’ís and especially our young Bahá’ís.

The history of the Faith in this country is just beginning, and we are happy that one of the first pages has been written by our dear Bahá’í friends from the United States of America.

With best wishes and loving Bahá’í greetings,

Elena Gruzkova, secretary RSA of Russia, Georgia and Armenia

A hope and a challenge for the Fund

To the Editor:

After considerable prayer and meditation, contemplating the significance of the Holy Year, deeply moved by the Ridván message from the Universal House of Justice, and challenged to action by the letter of June 24 from the National Spiritual Assembly, I feel there must be more that the American Bahá’í community can offer to Bahá’u’lláh.

Living in the most affluent country in the world, I am sometimes ashamed that as Americans we are not shouldering a greater part of the International Bahá’í Fund, and especially the Arc Fund. Although we can't begin to understand the significance of the Arc, if we could we would rush to sacrifice all our possessions and even our very lives for its establishment.

In a cursory evaluation of our donations to the Fund in the U.S., one quickly realizes that we do not understand the meaning of sacrifice as a community. Certainly, there are individuals who are sacrificing a great deal financially to sustain the "lifeblood of the Cause," but the majority of us are not giving even close to our potential.

If one compares our level of giving to other religious groups, we fall far short. Many Christians I have known regularly give 10 percent of their gross income to the church, and some as much as 30 percent. With the energizing influence of Bahá’u’lláh's Revelation, one would think that the Bahá’í community could at least match if not surpass these devitalized religious groups.

Friends should involve Southeast Asians in community life by inviting them to take part in Bahá’í-sponsored events

One of the proofs of the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh is its ability to bring together people of widely divergent racial and cultural backgrounds in a spirit of love and harmony.

Since the Universal House of Justice indicated that the second Bahá’í World Congress should reflect the remarkable spectrum of races and nationalities represented in the Bahá’í community, certain local Spiritual Assemblies in the U.S. were encouraged to help several Bahá’ís of Southeast Asian background to attend.

The Holy Year has seen significant growth in a number of Bahá’í communities thanks to the arrival of Southeast Asian Bahá’í refugees and the successful teaching efforts among their friends and relatives in the U.S.

Because many of the Southeast Asians have only recently embraced the Faith, there is a great need to involve them in Bahá’í community activities. A good way to do this is by helping them to take part in key Bahá’í events, especially those that are of special interest to Southeast Asians (for example, Southeast Asian Helpers Conferences or Round Table discussions organized periodically by the U.S. Bahá’í Refugee Office). Such events are advertised from time to time in The American Bahá’í.

Another way to help increase the involvement of Southeast Asian believers in Bahá’í community activities is to sponsor Southeast Asian youth to go to Bahá’í schools (such as Bosch, Louhelen or Green Acre) and other retreats.

Local Spiritual Assemblies that have questions about helping Southeast Asian Bahá’ís in these ways are welcome to contact the U.S. Bahá’í Refugee Office, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039).

TRAVELING TEACHING CALENDAR

UGANDA: Bahá’í International Youth Conference, December 25-27.

NEW ZEALAND: Hui (gathering) of Indigenous Women of the World, February 3-8 1993, Christchurch. Forum on "The Equality of Men and Women," followed by two days of activities around the topic, February 13-15, Wellington. Hui celebrating the inauguration of the Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh, February 24-28, Turanqawaewae Marae (central North Island).

Call or write for complete information: Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039; fax 708-869-0247, Attn: Office of Pioneering). [Page 15]

Helen Hornby, long-time pioneer to Colombia, Ecuador, dies

Our hearts are grieved by the news of the passing of Helen Hornby, steadfast, stalwart upholder of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh. Her well nigh three decades of teaching and pioneering have left indelible traces in the Americas; her success in preparing an extensive compilation on Bahá’í subjects was a crowning achievement. We pray in the Holy Shrines that her noble soul may be richly rewarded in the Abhá Kingdom. Kindly extend our sympathy to her dear family.

The Universal House of Justice October 20, 1992

Helen Hornby, a pioneer for more than three decades to Colombia and Ecuador and compiler of the book Lights of Guidance, died October 17 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, where she had gone for medical treatment.

Mrs. Hornby, born Helen Bassett in Alabama, was a graduate of Chicago's Roosevelt University. While in Chicago she was introduced to the Faith by Leo Shultz and deepened by Ellsworth and Ruth Blackwell.

After working as a photographer for a prominent black-oriented newspaper, the Pittsburgh Courier, she worked in government for the U.S. Signal Corps and the Department of Health, Education and Welfare (HEW).

She took an early retirement from HEW in 1961 to pioneer to Colombia where she met and was married to another pioneer from the U.S., Charles Hornby. The Hornbys moved to Quito, Ecuador, in 1970 to fill a goal there.

In addition to Lights of Guidance, the Spanish-language version of which is soon to be published, Mrs. Hornby was the author of Heroes of God, a 40-year history of the Faith in Ecuador, and at the time of her death was writing a history of the Faith in Peru.

On learning of Mrs. Hornby's passing, the Hand of the Cause of God Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum addressed the following letter to Mr. Hornby:

"Dear Charles,

"Just learned of dear Helen's passing and share your grief in loss of your devoted companion. She was an outstanding pioneer, Baha’i teacher and maidservant of Bahá’u’lláh and her services in this world will be sorely missed.

"Our heartfelt, loving sympathy goes out to you. Surely her rich reward is now being reaped in the Abhá Kingdom. May Ecuador believers, particularly the younger generation, follow her example of unflagging service to our Holy Cause.

"Violette [Nakhjavání] joins me in sending loving sympathy. We will remember you both in the Holy Shrines."

The National Spiritual Assembly of Ecuador sent the following cable:

"We express our pain, our sense of sadness loss our sister friend mother Helen who served the Faith for so many years selfless sacrifice service Cause. We raise most fervent prayers progress her blessed soul Abhá Kingdom. Meetings being held her memory local communities National Spiritual Assembly. We are with you Charles."

Letters

...orders of the past.

As an example, if only 10 percent of the American Bahá’í community (about 10,000 individuals) gave 10 percent of their gross income (figuring an average income of $30,000 a year), this would result in $30 million in donations each year. Think of the possibilities if the numbers were even higher.

If 10 percent of the community gave 19 percent of their gross income, we would generate $57 million for the Fund. These numbers are deliberately conservative, as there are no doubt many Bahá’ís whose incomes are considerably higher. This does not even take into account the spiritual bounties that would descend upon our community.

I offer as a challenge to the American Bahá’í community to pledge 19 percent of my gross income during the Holy Year to the Fund. I challenge others in the community to make the same commitment for this year, and hopefully we will get those 10,000 individuals (remember, only 10 percent of the community) to do so.

Although this seems like a considerable amount of money and would no doubt be formidable sacrifice for many, it would be only for one year. But what a wonderful gift this could be during the Holy Year!

As the Universal House of Justice has asked, we should use this year for "a rendezvous of the soul with the Source of its light and guidance, a time to turn to Bahá’u’lláh...." Is there any better way to demonstrate the effects of this reflection on the significance of the Life and Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh than in action. Our chance may never come again. We must not be complacent, allowing this priceless opportunity to slip past us. We must seize it now!

Jon B. Bruss Newton, Massachusetts

Esperanto and world language

To the Editor:

The letter from the editor of the Bahá’í Esperanto League's international newsletter (June 5) reminds concerned persons of the need for a world language.

Recently, a letter was sent by a Chicagoan to the Toronto Globe & Mail mentioning the "horrendous, enduring language problem." In the letter, he recalls the fascinating claim that the League of Nations, in the 1920s, was "on the verge of adopting Esperanto as a common second language."

Esperantists should pore over the early Wilson drafts of the President's famed "Fourteen Points" to determine whether Mr. Wilson, who had "some" knowledge of Bahá’í principles, had attempted to introduce Esperanto into his part of the Points, which were intended to settle World War I hostilities.

Paul Pearsall Jersey City, New Jersey

Prayers Around the World campaign for race harmony

The Race Unity Action Committee of the Spiritual Assembly of Marietta, Georgia, is calling on Bahá’ís around the world to take part January 17 in the fourth annual Prayers Around the World campaign for peace and racial harmony.

In Georgia, the prayer program will be held at the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Non-Violent Social Change as a part of the week-long festivities to mark the anniversary of Dr. King's birth.

This year, for the first time, National Spiritual Assemblies all over the world have been contacted and asked to invite their communities to take part in the campaign.

Here's what you can do:

1. Hold a prayer gathering January 17 for your community.

2. Hold a prayer/cultural arts public gathering inviting multi-institutional participation.

3. Send a confirmation pledge of participation to Prayers Around the World, Race Unity Action Committee, Bahá’í Faith, P.O. Box 1531, Marietta, GA 30060.

Plans include displaying the pledges during King Week, as well as presenting to Mrs. Coretta King an inscribed roll of all localities around the world that are taking part in this unifying effort held in memory of her husband and his dream of the unity of all races.

'Visitors' to China sought

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

World Congress and Children's Day

The second Bahá’í World Congress... was held November 23-26 in New York City, the "City of the Covenant"—and the next issue of The American Bahá’í (for the Feast of Sharaf, December 31) will be devoted almost entirely to that historic event, with articles and photographs depicting the many aspects of the Congress. It promises to be a collector's item, and one you won't want to miss!

In September, these children ages 9-16 and their instructor, Gayle Woolson (back row right), took part in a Universal Children's Day program at the Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette. The theme, 'The Great Promise of the Ages,' centered on the life and teachings of Bahá’u’lláh. As a result of publicity in a local newspaper, a journalism professor at Northwestern University included the program on a list of topics assigned to her students. Six of them came to the House of Worship, covered the event, and interviewed the children. Taking part were (back row left to right) Errol Doris Jr., Shanti Drake, Saba Firoozi and Cantwell George Carson, and (front row left to right) Mark Eghrari, Allen Eghrari, Suzanne Mitchell and Jhontia Williams.

IN MEMORIAM

Mahdi J. Anderson Milwaukee, WI March 1, 1989

Catherine Andrews Key West, FL September 1992

Charles Bonham Fort Myers, FL September 29, 1992

Shayla M. Collett Evanston, IL September 30, 1992

Farah-Angviz Darakshani Scottsdale, AZ October 21, 1991

Willie M. Davis Greenville, SC Date Unknown

Joan Hughes Bellmawr, NJ January 19, 1992

James Jones Cross, SC 1991

George Kennedy Kingstree, SC Date Unknown

Della Levine Cross, SC 1990

George Magnan Ventura, CA April 21, 1986

Martha McKeown Auburn, CA April 15, 1992

Marjorie L. McCabe Chagrin Falls, OH August 2, 1992

Joy McCormack Sierra Madre, CA October 1, 1992

Theodore Nichols Englewood, NJ September 5, 1991

Alfred Osborne Irvine, CA August 14, 1992

Eldora Prioleau Cross, SC 1988

Harry Richburg Cross, SC 1991

Robert J. Schoppert Ojai, CA September 2, 1992

Lucille Simmons Cross, SC Date Unknown

John A. Trickey Escondido, CA September 12, 1992

Carrie Turner Cleveland, OH October 14, 1992 [Page 16]

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Mayor Robert W. Hinck of Mineola, New York (center) receives a copy of the National Spiritual Assembly's statement, 'The Vision of Race Unity,' from the Bahá’ís of the Town of North Hempstead. The presentation was made October 15 in the mayor's office.

MOVING? TELL US YOUR NEW ADDRESS.

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

A. NAME(S): 1. LD. W Title LD.W 3. LD. ID. Title Title

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

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

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

F. WORK TELEPHONE NUMBER(S): Area code Phone number Name P.O. Box or Other mailing address Apartment (If applicable) City State: Zip code

E. HOME TELEPHONE NUMBER: Moving date Area code Phone number Name

G. WE RECEIVE EXTRA COPIES BECAUSE: we do not have the same last name. We do not want extra copies, so please cancel the copy for the person(s) and I.D. number(s) listed above.

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

Area code Phone number 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 ocords, their L.D. numbers, and the correc ions so that we will receive only one copy. Name

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

DECEMBER

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. The conference begins at 9 a.m. on December 25. 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.

27-31: Mid-Winter Youth Conference, Cleveland, Ohio, sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Warrensville Heights. Ages 13 through early 20s. Cost is $95. To register, send $30 by December 4 to Bahá’í Youth Board of Greater Cleveland, c/o Nevin Jenkins, registrar, Cleveland, OH 44122, or phone 216-283-8526 or 216- 247-2135.

27-January 2: Winter School session, Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 313-653-5033.

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

1-3: Louisiana Bahá’í Winter School, Fontainebleau State Park near Covington. Nat West, registrar: Avondale, LA 70094 (phone 504-436-4958).

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

9: "Sacrifice" (Dr. Curt Russell), Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 313- 653-5033.

9-18: King Week '93, Atlanta, Georgia. Theme: "Where do we go from here? Nonviolence: Learning it, living it, teaching it." For more information on King Week events and how you can take part, contact Paula Trail, 404-426-7713.

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

6: Commemoration of the 130th anniversary of the introduction of the Faith in China, Taipei Grand Hotel, Taiwan. Sponsored by the National Spiritual Assembly of Taiwan. It is hoped that Bahá’ís who once pioneered to Taiwan will be able to return to see the wonderful results of their efforts throughout Taiwan.

6: "Prayer and Meditation" (Melanie Smith), Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 313-653-5033.

19-21: "Teaching: Commitment in Action," Eagle Institute Youth Series, Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 313-653-5033.

20: "Historical and Cultural Perspectives," Accepting the Challenge of Leadership: Center for Interracial Unity Series, Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 313- 653-5033.

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.

27: "Bahá’u’lláh’s Writings: Tablet to the World" (Rene Steiner), Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 313-653-5033.

MARCH

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

12-14: "The Kitáb-i-Aqdas: Bahá’u’lláh’s Most Holy Book," Eagle Institute Youth Series, Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 313-653-5033.

20: "Bahá’u’lláh’s Writings: The Kitáb-i-Aqdas" (Dr. Juan Cole), Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 313-653-5033.

APRIL

24: "Love and Law" (speaker to be announced), Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 313-653-5033.

MAY

Pioneer Training Institute, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL. For information, phone the Office of Pioneering, 708-869-9039.

15: "Making a New World Order in Our Backyard," Accepting the Challenge of Leadership: Center for Interracial Unity Series, Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 313-653-5033.

JUNE

Pioneer Training Institute, Louhelen Bahá’í School, Davison, Michigan. For information, phone the Office of Pioneering, 708-869-9039.

SEPTEMBER

Pioneer Training Institute, Louis G. Gregory Bahá’í Institute, Hemingway, South Carolina. For information, phone the Office of Pioneering, 708-869-9039.

Chinese newsletter

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

MASA'IL B.E. 149/ DECEMBER 12, 1992