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Volume 23, Issue 2

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The American Baha

Votume 23, No. 2

“THE REAL TREASURY OF MAN IS HIS KNOWLEDGE.’—BAHA'U'LLAH

Mu k B.E. 148 / Fesruary 7, 1992

Tue Six Year PLAN

The first of a series on the goals and accomplishments

This article is the first of a four-part review of the U.S. Baha'i community's achievements since the beginning of the Six Year Plan. The series will chronicle the outstanding events and important developments in our community in light of the Plan’s major objectives. It will be followed by a statement from the National Spiritual Assembly on the meaning of these accomplishments as we look ahead to the challenges of the future.

It is beyond the scope of this series to offer a detailed history; volumes could be written on the subject as it applies to the American community alone. A survey of the highlights, however, should offer sufficient indication of the ways in which we have evolved during the course of the last several years.

SETTING THE STAGE

“The Divine Springtime is fast advancing,” the Universal House of Justice wrote in its Ridvan 1986 message to the Baha'is of the world, “and all the atoms of the earth are responding to the vibrating influence of Baha’u’Ilah’s Revelation. The evidences of this new life are clearly apparent in the progress of the Cause of God.”

That progress, the House of Justice continued, had “accelerated notably during the Seven Year Plan.” The Supreme Body listed many achievements witnessed during that time “throughout the Baha’i world and at the heart of the Cause itself.”

Among the most noteworthy victories were the completion and occupation of the Seat of the Universal House of Justice; the approval of detailed plans for the remaining, edifices of the Arc; the expansion of the membership and responsibilities of the International Teaching Center and the Continental Boards of Counselors; the establishment at the World Center of the offices of Social and Economic Development and Public Information; the dedication of the Mother Temple of the Pacific and progress on the House of Worship in India; the formation of 23 new National Spiritual Assemblies; the opening of three new Baha’i radio stations (including WLGI in Hemingway, South Carolina); and the vast increase in numbers of local Spiritual Assemblies, Baha’i Groups, publications, and social and economic development projects around the

world.

The Plan had coincided at its opening, the House of Justice said, with a “recrudescence of savage persecution of the Baha’i community in Iran,” which had generated “tremendous international attention.” The steadfastness of the friends in Iran sparked the concern and interest of the world’s media and the United Nations itself, accomplishing the long-anticipated emergence of the Faith from the obscurity which had “characterized and sheltered the first period of its life.”

Inresponse to this dramatic development, the House of Justice had addressed a “Statement on Peace to the Peoples of the World” (“The Promise of World Peace”) and seen to its delivery to heads of state and other rulers.

The House of Justice added that another process paralleled the outstanding events of those seven years. This was a “remarkable growth in the maturity of the institutions of the Cause,” fostered by the “ever closer cooperation of the twin arms of the Administrative Order.”

With this new level of maturity in mind, the House of Justice announced the inception of the Six Year Plan, whose major objectives had been sent to all National Assemblies and the Continental Boards of Counselors earlier that year.

THE FOURTH EPOCH

An outstanding aspect of the Plan was that, for the first time in history, the specific goals for each country would be decided on and implemented by the National Spiritual Assemblies in consultation with the Continental Boards of Counselors.

This significant advance, coming on the 70th anniversary of the Tablets of the Divine Plan, *Abdu’l-Baha’s charter for the spiritual conquest of the planet, signalized “the inauguration of a new stage in the unfoldment of the Administrative Order.” The House of Justice announced that it marked the inception of the “fourth epoch” of the Formative Age of the Faith.

In the U.S., local Baha’i communities were an integral part of the planning process. A series of town meetings was held across the country under the auspices of the National Spiritual Assembly and Board of Counselors to

Media Task Force holds seven conferences to present plans for second Baha'i World Congress in New York

Seven regional meetings designed to present the media plans for the second Baha'i World Congress were held in November and December in Africa, Europe and Asia.

These meetings, organized by the World Congress Media Task Force, were attended by Counselors, members of National Spiritual Assemblies and their public information officers, Auxiliary Board members, and Baha’i media professionals.

Agendas included information about the spiritual significance of the World Congress; the planning, preparation and logistics involved; and the themes of the four-day program.

Because the media work for the Congress will be greatly enhanced if asignificant number of believers representing a wide diversity of cultures attends, the Media Task Force was pleased to find that the meetings sparked a greater interest on the part

of many who had not planned to attend.

In Africa, meetings in Harare, Zimbabwe, and Nairobi, Kenya, drew some 50 participants from Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Kenya, Ethiopia and Uganda. Daniel Wegener of the Baha’i International Community office in New York City represented the Media Task Force.

Two meetings in India drew representation from the State Baha'i Councils. More than 40 Baha'is took part in the meeting in New Delhi, while 18 attended the meeting in Madras.

Representatives of six national Baha'i communities gathered in Suva, Fiji, for a meeting conducted by Counselors Wilma Ellis and Tinai Hancock and Tacheste Ahderom of the Baha'i International Community's office in New York City.

In Spain, 40 attended a meeting in Madrid, and a meeting in Lang enhain, Germany, drew 28 representatives froma dozen countries. Shirley Lee, a member of the Media Task Force, conducted that meeting as well as those in Spain and India.

At each of the meetings, the global media plan was explained and discussed. The Media Task Force announced that basic materials will be provided to National Spiritual Assemblies to encourage a unified approach to the media and to avoid duplication of expense and effort.

A video tape, produced by the Media Task Force, helped introduce the media plan and Media Task Force members and helped set the tone for consultation. Each National Spiritual Assembly received a copy of the tape to be used, if needed, at other meetings.

Other meetings were scheduled this winter in Hong Kong, Panama, Puerto Rico, Brazil and Canada.

consult on the goals of the Plan and make recommendations for their implementation. Later the National Assembly sponsored 18 “Vision to Victory” conferences whose focus was on teaching, raising funds for the Arc and the development of local Spiritual Assemblies.

In its letter to the Baha’is of the world dated January 2, 1986, the House of Justice stated that “the organic growth of the Cause of God, indicated by recent significant developments in its life, becomes markedly apparent in light of the main objectives and expectations of the Six Year Plan.” They are as follows:

carrying the healing Message of Baha‘u'llah to the

INSIDE:

Teaching | Institutes 3 Young Baha'is in Michigan discover success with systematic approach

Goals program Local Assemblies’ response has positive impact on National Fund

Glenford Mitchell Member of Universal House of Justice speaks about upcoming Holy Year

generality of mankind;

further acceleration in the process of the maturation

of national and local Baha’i communities;

a wider extension of Baha’i education to children and youth and the strengthening of Baha’i family life; and

® the pursuit of projects of social and economic development in well-established Baha’i communities.

Under each major objective the House of Justice added specific recommendations for consideration by the national communities. But it was left for the National Assemblies to determine how they could best achieve the goals according to their particular circumstances.

The goals of the Plan were designed to stimulate significant growth in every sphere of Baha’i activity. All are interrelated and profoundly affect one another. They should be understood not as separate entities, but as facets of a single, comprehensive strategy for advancement.

Our level of teaching activity, for example, influences the maturation of our institutions, and vice versa; the

See SIX peek PLAN Page iG

‘Tod Ewing elected to membership” _ on the National Spiritual / rb

The National Spiritual Assem| sly is p! announce the election to its member:

[Page 2]2 THe American BAHA'i

Baha'is in lowa respond to incidents of racial intimidation

A recent surge of racial incidents in several Iowa cities involving violence and acts of intimidation has captured the attention of the national media and brought an energetic response from Baha’i communities across the state.

Determined to uphold publicly the principle of the oneness of mankind and to lend their weight to the progressive forces working to counter this rash of bigotry. the Baha'is in that area have actively distributed copies of “The Vision of Race Unity” to community leaders and have taken part in forums and meetings held to address the problem.

Economic DEPRESSION

Iowa's minority population is small. The tensions of the last few months have been attributed by experts to a long period of economic depression plaguing the state, with the cities particularly affected. As often happens in such situations, minority groups have been used as scapegoats by some who accuse them of stealing jobs from whites. African-Americans, the larg

est minority in the state, have been the group most zealously attacked.

In such cities as Dubuque, Waterloo, Hoover City and Warren, racism has manifested itself in the form of cross burnings, verbal abuse and violence in the schools. Other incidents of various kinds have taken place throughout the state.

The Baha'is have taken many courses of action over the past few months. Representatives of the Waterloo and Cedar Falls communities attended several meetings of the Black Hawk Area Religious Coalition, where they distributed copies of “The Vision of Race Unity” to local ministers, black and white. The Baha*is of Waterloo later joined the Coalition.

The Baha'is in Cedar Falls participated ina parade of unity on November 24, organized by the Coalition. One of the friends was interviewed by the Waterloo Courier, and her remarks were printed in the subsequent article on the parade. The friends in Cedar Falls also submitted a public service announcement on racism to a black

oriented radio station in Waterloo. The management of the station promised air time for the announcement.

At least 10 Baha’i communities have distributed copies of “The Vision of Race Unity” to school boards, principals and superintendents of schools; many have presented copies to clergy, city councils and mayors. Several newspapers have printed letters to the editor and similar items from Baha’is.

Positive RESPONSE

Public officials have usually been quite positive about the statement on race unity, desperate as they are for solutions to the problem. When the Baha’i public information representative for Mason City approached the mayor about an official presentation of the statement, the mayor eagerly took the Baha’i’s personal copy from his hands.

In December, nearly 40 believers met in Des Moines with Dr. Robert Henderson, secretary-general of the National Spiritual Assembly, and with members of the

Baha'is in Eliot, Maine, join Historical Society in project to restore local cemeteries

The Bahai community of Eliot, Maine, has joined members of the local Historical Society in an ongoing cemetery restoration project that began last September.

The program was initiated when the Baha’is, wanting to be of service to the town, wrote to the board of selectmen asking if there were a project for which there was no budget.

Responding with a multi-page listing of

ies in Eliot, the selectmen asked to see what they could do to help clean and restore some of the oldest graveyards in the area. The Baha’ is chose six “derelict” cemeteries from the 150 sites listed.

“Derelict” cemeteries are those devoid of the most elementary care. Although historically valuable, they have fallen into disrepair over the course of many years. The Eliot Baha’is saw the cleanup project as a way of paying respect to the contributions made by the town’s early residents.

Before beginning the work, a Baha'i task force consulted with several experts on cemetery and gravestone preservation. Much to everyone's excitement, as the Baha'is picked up branches and raked away leaves that had accumulated for years on the lots, they uncovered five additional inscribed stones not previously known to

ear

bs i FAHEY

Concreting has begun on the ‘collar wall’ behind the site of the Center for the Study of the Texts, flanking the Seat of the Universal House of Justice on Mount Carmel. Apart from its struc—

tural use, cons iz wall provides additional safety for the workers who are continuing their excavation deeper into the heart of Mount Carmel.

Baha'i Studies unit of American Academy of Religion holds eighth annual meeting in Kansas City, Missouri

The Baha’i Studies program unit of the American Academy of Religion held its eighth annual meeting November 25 in

culture in general, and American Baha'i women in particular, in fostering that development.

National Race Unity Committee and representatives of the National Teaching Committee. The meeting was held to discuss what the friends in lowa had done to create racial harmony in the state and to plan future actions.

Several concrete suggestions were offered, based on the emphasis placed by Dr. Henderson and the members of the Race Unity committee on performing deeds that correspond to our words. Among them were to reach out to people who have been hurt by racial incidents and help to heal their wounds; to conduct surveys of models of racial unity in various communities and support their work; to promote education on race unity in the school systems; and to devise ways of bringing black and white people together in constructive ways.

Some Baha'i communities have stepped up their teaching activities to keep pace with proclamation and public information efforts. The community of Ames invited the National Teaching Committee to conducta teacher training institute. The youth and children in several areas have become highly energized, and are eagerly sharing the Faith with their peers.

Inaddition, Baha’i communities in lowa are planning presentations of “The Vision of Race Unity” to their U.S. Congressmen and Senators under the direction of the National Spiritual Assembly.

Listing of local Assemblies in danger of losing status because of low membership

Below are local Spiritual Assemblies who, because their community membership has fallen below the nine adult believers necessary to form an Assembly, are in danger of losing their Assembly at Ridvan. Baha’is in surrounding communities are asked to help with teaching efforts in these areas, traveling teachers are encouraged to arrange itineraries that include these Baha’i communities, and prospective homefront pioneers are urged to consider them as pioneering posts.

Spiritual Assemblies in danger of being lost that have not yet reported their jeopardized status should contact the National Teaching Committee office.

ALABAMA Northfield Twp. Flofeace MICHIGAN ARKANSAS __ Troy

Fayetteville White River Twp.

Washington County 11gsQURI

Ee et ea Te Pe te rasa ily AM escun Diane Taherzadeh offered a valuable CALIFORNIA Rolla tial cleanup, the Baha’is propose to main- | __ Thisyear’sthemewastheroleof women and insightful biography of Bahiyyih eit pee NORTH DAKOTA tain them. Future plans include expanding | in the Baha'i Faith. Four papers were Khanum, the Greatest Holy Leaf, and & Grand Forks ‘ ed, followed by a panel discus- briefly discussed her significance to the Sierra Madre the number of graveyards they will tend | Presented, a tly d ig! OHIO sion. Baha'i community. CONNECTICUT on behalf of the town. f : Beavercreek Paula Drewek’s “Divine Susan Stiles Maneck presented a paper Danbury Seni Spirit and Form in Baha’i on “American Women and the Baha'i Ellington The American Bahé'tis published 19 times a year by the | Scriptures: Where Does Administrative Order” which looked at Ledyard _ rani National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of the United | Gender Fit In?” examined the statements of “Abdu’l-Baha to the New Britain Mi yest City States, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201. Application to feminine images for the American Baha'i community about the Ridgefield Ponca City divine in the Baha'i writ- role of women in the Baha’i administra- Southington The Village ing offices. Executive edit ings, focusing specifically tive order, and the ways that role conse- South Windsor OREGON ies: Asreciate Balior- men Bowers: Aridiractor: ° on the Mother Word, The quently changed. Torrington Benton County atiatereat from individuals and the variees institutions ot | Maid of Heaven, and the Finally, Paul Numrich, a doctoral can- DELAWARE VIRGINIA the Baha'i Faith. Articles should be clear and concise; color Queen of Carmel. didate in Buddhist Studies at Northwest- wilmington Hampton or black-and-white glossy photographs should be included Robert Stockman pre- ern University, served asa respondent and FLORIDA Suffolk whenever possible. Please address all materials and corre- sented “Sisters inthe Spirit: discussed all four papers in the context of s spondence to The Editor, The American Baha'i, Wilmette, American and Iranian the Baha'i understanding of the role of Altomante Springs WASHINGTON IL 60091. Postmaster: Send address changes to Management BahciWamenNabaitthe women Davie Snohomish Co., SW Information Systems, Baha'i National Center, 1233 Central : eters > ILLINOIS Woodinville ‘vanston, IL 60201. Copyright © 1992 by the National progressive expansion of Although the audience for the panel was N itual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United States. the role of women in the small, the stimulating papers and lively Batavia WEST VIRGINIA World rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. Iranian Baha’i community discussion more than made up for the Bolingbrook Monongalia Co. and the roles of western small number present. Glen Ellyn

MuLk 148 B.E. / Fesruary 7, 1992 [Page 3]THE AMERICAN BaHA 3

By Ken Bowers

After several years of dedicated activity two small Baha'i communities are seeing results that mark a thrilling step forward for the Faith in Michigan.

Their experiences provide important lessons about the ways in which teaching teams can be most effective.

For the past four years young Baha’is have gathered regularly at the Dickson Lodge in Ludington for deepening and fellowship. Last summer they were energized by two teacher training weekends including one at the Louhelen Baha’i School.

FULL-TIME TEACHING

Asa result, the youth began to commit to teaching on a full-time basis. During July and August positive teaching contacts were made in communities of Hispanic migrant workers and African-Americans. One of the communities visited by the youth was Twin Lake.

The Baha’is of nearby White River Township had been building friendships with the residents of Twin Lake, a lowincome housing project, for three years. The Assembly had already decided that it was time to further these relationships with increased Baha’i teaching.

The youth teaching team, which included several of the Louhelen residential students, began its activities in Twin Lake at the local park. After a few visits, 11 youth and pre-youth declared their belief in Baha’u'llah. These new believers began to attend Feast in White River Township.

When school began in late August, a few college age youth formed a full-time teaching team and continued the work. Since then they have been joined on week

Joe Magaditsch, a Baha'i from Norco, California, fingerprints young David Cuadra during a Baha’ iren’s Day Safety Program for residents of Norco and nearby communities at Riverside Community College. Children also learned fire safety and other precautions from fire department and sheriff's department personnel, Smokey the Bear and Deputy McGruff, and were given free Sparky and McGruff comic books and

sponsored Universal C!

coloring books.

Teaching teams

Baha'is in Michigan hit stride with systematic aproach

ends and holidays by other youth and adult teachers. These “satellite teams” are made up of Baha’ is from across the state, and frequently include new believers who are learning to share the Faith with others.

Regular firesides are now held in Twin Lake, attended by large groups of youth and adults; one recent fireside attracted nearly 70 people. There is growing interest in the Faith on the part of the residents, and the message is well received in virtually every case.

Carole Dickson, an adult member of the full-time teaching team, expressed the excitement of the friends at the victories being won:

“From the very beginning we were enthusiastic about sharing the teachings with the people in Twin Lake. What we have found is that passion has met passion, for there are many souls who had been praying just as hard for us to come as we were to find them! The spiritual opportunities here are astounding.”

Mature APPROACH

Beyond the desire to teach, however, has been a systematic and mature approach that has proven to be the basis for everything that has been achieved.

First, a long period of time was taken to lay the groundwork for teaching, by building friendships with area residents based on trust and a sincere spirit of brotherhood. The teachers also took the time to deepen themselves in the Faith and to make the necessary spiritual preparations for going into the field.

Also, the teachers understood a fundamental truth about teaching teams—that no single model can be rigidly applied to every situation. Thus, although they were familiar with aspects of the teaching work insuch places as Oregon, they were ready to adapt to the needs of their target group.

The most important way in which they made themselves adaptable was by accepting the guidance of the local Spiritual Assembly, the Auxiliary Board members, and even a few of the non-Baha’i residents of Twin Lake. One woman in particular made helpful suggestions. She later opened her home for Bahai firesides and has become quite interested in the Faith.

Another successful aspect of their approach is one whose effectiveness has been shown time and again. The teachers have identified and are focusing on a target population, in this case the residents of a certain neighborhood. Concentrating their efforts on one group conserves energy and allows for more careful planning, more consistent teaching, and a higher quality of deepening for the new believers. “Atone point a question was raised about teaching in areas besides Twin Lake,” said Mrs. Dickson. “After all, the energy of the young teachers was so great that itseemed ashame not to spread it around some. As the teaching progressed,

however, we realized that the people of Twin Lake have friends and relatives all over the state. There is bound to bea ripple effect of some sort; by teaching them we're teaching Michigan!”

There has also been a positive effect of another kind. Many of the visiting teachers, exhilarated by their experiences in Twin Lake, have initiated new teaching efforts in their home towns. Communities all over the state are already benefiting from the Twin Lake project with new teaching institutes of their own. LONG-RANGE PLANS

Finally, the Baha’ is involved have committed themselves to years of teaching and development in Twin Lake. Longrange plans are being made that will provide for the steady growth of the community over the next decade.

“This attitude is not a new one,” said Mrs. Dickson. “Both ‘Abdu’l-Baha and the Guardian stressed that teaching is a long-term commitment. Now, at last, there are communities in America that are planning for the duration in a mature way. Where we used to talk about dating, we are now talking about marriage.”

Mrs. Dickson added that a willingness to teach must be accompanied by a readiness to sacrifice one’s accustomed lifestyle:

“Teaching, even on the homefront, is a pioneering experience. Your life becomes rearranged, and all that is familiar is left

behind. We must be ready to leave our ‘comfort zones’ if we want to succeed.

“The members of this institute are learning more and more about the importance of sacrifice and the determination to succeed. Once we called off a fireside because a few of the friends had chest colds. The next day we received several phone calls from seekers who were upset that we had not lived up to our promised schedule. They were truly disappointed.

“We realized at that time that the people really need the Faith, they need to feel Baha’u'llah’s love for them. And after all, no one calls off a church service because someone is sick.

“We sometimes forget that we Baha'is need to feel Baha’u'llah’s love for us as much as anyone else does. Without that we don’t have spiritual life; we have nothing. But the only way to feel His love is when we love mankind. And the supreme act of love, of course, is teaching.

“So we have, on the one hand, those souls who are poor in the things of this world, are burdened with the troubles of life and are praying desperately fora hopeful sign, like the people of Twin Lake; and on the other we have the Baha'is, materially well off for the most part, who are becoming involved in the act of loving others. When the two groups come together, there is spiritual enrichment for all.”

International Chinese Teaching Committee marks 10th year with teaching conference in Macau

To the participants at the Chinese Teaching Conference in Macau:

Our thoughts are with you on this Day of the Covenantas youare gathered at China’s threshold to deliberate on a subject which the Master so deeply cherished—that of the promulgation of the Message of Baha'u'llah amongst the Chinese people.

Untold changes and challenges await China and its people in the years to come. The tests and sufferings which also lie ahead can be ameliorated only through our Faith which isat once inharmony with science, is non-political in nature, and has as its highest aims the achievement of world peace and the unity of mankind. This Sacred Cause is the light that will illuminate the Chinese nation and the means by which it can fulfill its glorious destiny predicted by *Abdu’l-Baha.

We assure you of our ardent prayers at the Sacred Threshold that your gathering will result in unprecedented victories for the Blessed Beauty amongst the Chinese communities worldwide.

Universal House of Justice 25 November 1991 .

The 10th anniversary of the International Chinese Teaching Committee, and the steady increase in Chinese believers worldwide, were celebrated November 2630 at an International Teaching Conference in Macau. The National Spiritual Assembly of Macau hosted the event, where participants from 19 countries were identified from almost every part of the world.

Macau has beena Portuguese colony for more than 400 years, but will return to Chinese sovereignty in 1999, two years

after the similar return of Hong Kong, its neighboring British territory.

Counselors Shanta Sundram and Bijan Farid, Mrs. Iran Mohajer, Mr. Sean Hinton, Mr. Fariburz Sahba, Mr. T.K. Lee and members of the International Chinese Teaching Committee were featured speakers. In addition, presentations on the progress in reaching the Chinese in many countries were followed by workshops in. Mandarin and English planned to cover systematic expansion and consolidation, developing a discourse on Chinese teaching, and presenting the statement on Baha’u'llah.

A translation of the statement was received from the World Center just before the conference, and is soon to be published.

Mr. Sahba, the architect of the House of Worship in India, spoke of his lecture tour in China in which the architecture and meaning of the House of Worship were presented, and Mr. Hinton, Knight of Baha‘u'llah for Mongolia, spoke of the mysterious forces that led him to research indigenous music in that land, and to fulfill the last remaining goal of the Ten Year Crusade.

See MACAU page 14

Attending the Congress _ _ The National Chinese Teaching — Committee urges all communities —

_ with Chinese believers to ensure —

at they are aware of the impor-_ tance of attending the World Con- _ gress. Ifcost isa barrier, perhaps your community could offer a _

| scholarship. i

a SS

Mutk 148 B.

. / Fesrnuary 7, 1992 [Page 4]4 THe American BAHA'

Important tax information for Baha'is living overseas

To update IRS tax policies for the benefit of pioneers overseas, the Office of Pioneers would like to share the following information:

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is developing programs and strategies to deal with hundreds of thousands of U.S. citizens who are under the mistaken impression that one does not have to file a tax return while working overseas.

Througha series of tax acts beginning in 1981, Congress

come from taxation by the U.S. government. The “Foreign Earned Income Exclusion” is not automatic, and does not apply to everyone working abroad.

If you qualify for the exclusion, you still have to file a return with the IRS. Even if you owe no taxes, you must file a return that reports your income and claims your tax benefits.

The IRS has initiated collection and examination programs aimed at the overseas American. The tax law now

security numbers of Americans living abroad with a computer listing of returns filed to monitor taxpayer compliance with filing requirements.

The IRS can now request and receive income information related to American expatriates from the governments of approximately 35 countries.

If you would like a complete copy of the article on the IRS as found in the January 1992 issue of “International Employment Hotline,” please contact the Office of Pio

provided U.S. c exclude a qual

ns working overseas with the right to ed amount of their foreign earned in requires that you include your social security number when applying fora passport. The IRS matches the social

neering, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or telephone 708-869-9039.

LETTER FROM SIBERIA

The people are ‘thirsty’ for religion, teaching work is moving forward, but more pioneers are needed

Dear Friends:

Life in Siberia has been truly exciting and extremely rewarding in terms of teaching. Here in Siberia, firesides are really a wonderful teaching method, as “teas” are an integral part of the social life of the people, so they seem totally natural.

People here are thirsty for religion, and eager to hear about the Message of Baha’u'llah. Ulan Ude formed its first Assembly in August 1990, and had its first Baha’i wedding a week ago. We have also seen the formation of the first National Assembly of the USSR at Ridvan and that was thrilling for all.

Now, of course, there are many new

Assemblies in Siberia, and the consolidation work is tremendous. We have a great need for more pioneers, naturally, as Sibetia has 25 million people and is only slightly larger than Canada.

Ulan Ude is one of the only cities in Siberia with pioneers, although recently the Weiss family moved to Khabarovsk in the Far Eastern Republic. At any rate, we cannot say enough about the bounties of pioneering here or anywhere to serve the Faith. Our love and prayers go out to all our brothers and sisters in the field!

Allah’u’Abha!

(signed) Brad & Leslie Cummings

Hospital Bayan in Honduras: A dream fulfilled for two caring Baha'is, Vern and Lea Iverson

The Office of Pioneering would like to share with you the story of a dream fulfilled, the dream of Vern and Lea Iverson now called Hospital Bayan.

Hospital Bayan, in Honduras, isa social and economic development project that was begun in 1986. Since its inception, with less than 20 people seeking its care, it has grown to a center that serves approximately 350 people per month and offers emergency care around the clock. The fees are minimal, making it possible for patients to afford medical care while maintaining their dignity and pride.

Vern Iverson is the stateside liaison for Hospital Bayan. He works closely with the Office of Pioneering encouraging traveling teachers, youth year of service vol URRENT U.S. PIONEERING GOALS

unteers, and short-term pioneers to assist the efforts of the hospital and gain firsthand experience in the development of the people there.

Some of the volunteers who have taken partare doctors, taking time between their internship and residency, nurses taking a break from their urban nursing duties, youth testing their decisions to enter the medical field, and many others. The spirit of the Bayan project is clearly evident when these people return to the States with a vastly different perception of the social and economic needs of the rural Honduran population.

In addition to the medical responsibilities of Hospital Bayan, the staff and volunteers have been successful in contributing to the growth of the Faith in that country. Much more help is needed. According to a report received from a recently returned traveling teacher, there is

AMERICAS _

_ Assigned Goals

A

Goals 0; Goals Open AFRICA Assigned Goals AMERICAS - Continued Assigned Goals only one full-time doctor on staff. EquipREET (E) Jamaica (Preferably self-supporting for ment and manpower are always in de(F) 1 0 rural areas to work in village development) 4 0 mand and rarely available to the extent (E) Pirtod (F) Martinique (French-speaking youth to en- needed. (E) 2 0 roll in university or with musical talent) a 0 Traveling teachers, youth year of ser(E) Kenya (Preferably Outside Nairobi) «... 1 0 (S) Nicaragua (Preferably Persian) . 2 0 vice people, and short-term pioneers are (E) Nigeria... Be r0) (E) St. Lucia (Skills in community consol- all needed to continue the dream that is (E) Sierra Leone.. 2 0 idation) .... 4 1 Hospital Bayan. Speaking Spanish is a (E) South Africa .. 2 0 (E) St. Vincent & Grenadines . 2 0 tremendous asset, but even if your Span(E) St. Helena 2 1 (D) Suriname (Preferably Persian) 2 1 ish is less than fluent, feel free to volun(E) Namibia .. 2 0 (E) Trinidad & Tobago (Preferably Persian) 2 0 teer. For more information, contact the (E) 2 0 (S) Uruguay . 2 0 Office of Pioneering, Baha’i National €) ater asiaes ee Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 7080 (E) Virgin Islands, British sult ON 869-9039). ©) pay Total for Americas 45 9 4 ONGOING TRAVELING TEACHING OPPORTUNITIES Goals Open

Barbados; Bophuthatswana; Brazil; Burundi; Cambodia; Canada, Native

(©) Bahamas ‘(North Abaco, Eleuthera, (E) India and Chinese Teaching, and Yukon Andros, Cat Island, Long Island) . 0 (E) Malaysia (To help develop public Baha’i Institute; Chad; Ciskei; Cook (E) Barbados (Employment opportunities relations experts) Islands; Costa Rica; Eastern Caroline for a dentist) 1 0 (E) Nepal... Islands; East Leeward Islands; Fiji; (E) Belize (For radio, consolidation, devel- (M) Taiwan (Chinese Background) French Polynesia; Grenada; Guyana; (S) opment projects; skills for the National Total for Asia Haiti; Hong Kong; Italy; Jamaica; JaSecretariat) 1 0 pan; Kenya; Malaysia; Martinique; i era i Mauritius, New Zealand; Nicaragua; (P) Brazil (Preferably for Amazon project, Goals Open 4 > o By nee possibly of Persian background)... 0 AUSTRALASIA Assigned Goals Pakistan; Finely Ree of Behiny (S) Chile (Juan Fernandez Islands, prefer- % Singapore; South Africa; Taiwan; ir (E) Marshall faenee (To pera with admin- Tonga; Uganda; United Kingdom; Venably a Spanish-speaking couple) a 2 fas ow a Iskenaet (E) Dominica ... 2 4 istration) .. i oo Sansa . sets eee vat s' ane ar ji Total for Americas 1 0 ‘ucatan; Yugoslavia. For more inforHay Restate mation, contact the Office of Pioneer", Goals Open ing, Ba-ha’i National Center, Wilmette, (F) uageee (Opportunities for English EUROPE Assigned Goals IL 60091. (phone 708-869-9039), teachers, Ms Ce ee (E) Guyana (Preferably East Indians and (P) Portugal Couneat for goal areas outside Blacks...... 0 greater Lisbon, preferably Portugese or (S) Honduras (Bay Islands, Yoro, Colon; Spanish-speaking) ..... nf2'.| 0p CURRENT LONG TERM U.S. PIOpreferably self-supporting) .. 1 Total for Europe 2 0 NEERING GOALS REMAINING TO BE FILLED: Total goals assigned 77 Pioneers to goal countries. 241 AFRICA: St. Helena, Venda. Total goals filled... 66 Pioneers to non-goals ..... 416 AMERICAS: Juan Fernandez Islands

[Language Key: (E) English (D) Dutch (F) French (M) Mandarin (P) Portuguese (S) Spanish 44]

of Chile, French Guiana, Bay Islands of Honduras, St. Lucia. .

SRR SA LR

Mu_k 148 B.E. / Fesruary 7, 1992 [Page 5]THE AMERICAN BAHA'T 5&

Assembly goals program spurs growth of Fund

In its goals for the Six Year Plan, the Universal House of Justice asked for a “further acceleration in the process of the maturation of local and national Baha’i communities.” The House of Justice suggested that all National Assemblies adopt programs to consolidate local Spiritual Assemblies so that believers would be encouraged to take full part in the many aspects of Baha'i community life. Among the points

and the National Assembly's plan, known as the Local Assembly Goals Program, was launched in October 1990.

The American strategy calls for close cooperation between the national and local institutions. The National Assembly, considering such factors as community size and past record of contributions,

the individual believer's contribution is not compromised.

About 1,000 local Spiritual Assemblies were asked to take part in the Goals Program in its first year; this year the number has been increased to 1,300. Of these about 300 have responded, most of them for the second time.

country have reported greater levels of unity among the friends, increased teaching activity, higher quality of Feasts, and more universal participation in all facets of community life. They have attributed the new spirit in their localities in large part to their concentrated and collective efforts in support of the Fund.

The Goals Program has also fostered a greater sense of con

specifically mentioned by the Contribution Comparison - Totals at Novem! nection and cooperation beHouse of Justice was support of (000's) Nov ‘89 _Nov'90 Nov '91(est) _'89 to '91. '90 to '91] tween the local and neaoeel inthe fund. . ai stitutions, an achievement With this goal in mind the National Baha'i Fund $4,188 $5,001 $5,316 27% C26 lov whichttalitelitecesfantoward National Spiritual Assemblyhas__ |Baha’i International Fund $304 $312 $557 83% 79%} accelerating that “process of taken a number of initiatives _]Arc Projects Fund $590 $2,193 $459 -22% -79%} maturation” called for by the designed to stimulate the {Continental Baha'i Fund $178 $160 $108 -39% -33%] House of Justice. friends” understanding of and Jr state Bequests $0___ $388 $452 NIA 16%] _Founbarion reinrorcep support for the various Funds nt added aa f thi of the Faith. One of them is | Total Contributions $5,260 $8,054 $6,892 31% -14% in added avabtage or, tis approach is that the National

program for local Spiritual As semblies, which has proven to

be a major factor in the growth of the National Fund in the last two years.

In 1990 the National Assembly developed a plan in which local communities would be asked to set fund goals for themselves based on amounts suggested by the National Assembly. The Universal House of Justice reviewed the plan and commended the National Assembly for its initiative.

ETHIOPIA HAD SIMILAR PLAN

In doing so, the House of Justice pointed out to our National Assembly that Ethiopia already had a similar system in place. That program, in effect for nearly 20 years, had been successful enough to render the Ethiopian community financially self-sufficient—a distinction unique among Third World countries.

The House of Justice gave its approval

makes a specific recommendation to each local Assembly as its goal for contributions to the National Baha’i Fund for the year. The recommendation reflects the level of sacrifice that the National Assembly feels is within that community's power to achieve. The local Assembly is then asked to consult on the proposed goal and either accept it as it is or amend it as it sees fit.

The importance of the suggested goal lies not so much in the specific amount as in the level of sacrifice called for. Each community is asked to unite to give what it can in support of this crucial aspect of the Faith. And although it does not replace individual initiative, a specific goal helps give a clear indication to all the friends of their own community's progress. Moreover, the voluntary and secret nature of

The results for the National Fund have been extraordinary. There can be no doubt that the Goals Program is largely responsible for the significant growth in total contributions that took place in 1990. And although we are presently running behind last year’s levels, a notable portion of the funds that are coming in is from part pating local Spiritual Assemblies.

Most of the Assemblies taking part have kept their contributions the same as last year’s; a few have increased their goal, and some have had to lower it because of changes in membership or economic difficulty. A great many of them have commented on the advantages of this means for setting a target level of giving.

First is the joy and honor of giving to the Baha‘i Fund. The spiritual benefits of this are tremendous; Assemblies across the

Spiritual Assembly is betterable to anticipate what the material resources of the American community will be as it makes its plans for the coming years. It can also be of greater help to the House of Justice by giving the World Center a reliable basis for our contribution to the International Fund. Thus, this process reinforces the foundation of the administrative order by binding the local Assemblies ever more closely to the national body.

But the most important result will be the increase, as the program becomes more solidly and widely established in the community, in our ability to meet the both the practical necessities of the Faith—needs that are steadily expanding as the Cause moves forward and its influence in the world grows—and its spiritual requirements, as our unified response becomes a symptom and a cause of greater strength.

‘Raising Divine Call’ theme of conference in Breen, Colorado

On November 10, Baha'is from the Four Corners area of Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and Utah gathered in Breen, Colorado, for a conference on “Raising the Divine Call.”

The conference was conceived by the local Assemblies of the Southern Ute Reservation, La Plata County and Durango as a grassroots effort to stimulate intercommunity teaching.

The response was inspiring with more than 50 adults, youth and children taking an active part in the event. The spirit of unity was strong, consultation was frank and open, and topics considered included traveling teaching, teaching on Indian Reservations, teaching institutes, youth projects, use of the media, and the role of Assemblies in area-wide projects.

The conference was sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Durango, co-chaired by two members of the Spiritual Assembly of La Plata County, and held on the Southern Ute Reservation. The Baha'is of Cortez, Colorado, contributed a lovely book display.

Among the fruits of the conference were (J) plans to help the Southern Ute Reservation establish a permanent Baha'i teaching institute; (2) plans fora proclamation/ award event to honor a local public radio station; and (3) a project to develop a Baha'i float to be used in parades in the area.

Friends should not invite reporters, other non-Baha'is to Feast

The Office of Public Information would like to remind local Spiritual Assemblies and individual believers that they should not invite reporters or other non-Baha‘is tothe Nineteen Day Feast. Publicity which might be generated by a journalist attending the Feast is not justification to compromise the cardinal principle of the in: tution of Feast. When a non-Baha’i attends the meeting, it is no longer the Nineteen Day Feast.

If a journalist requests permission to attend the Feast, the local Spiritual Assembly should explain the nature of the Feast and that it is restricted to Baha'is only. The Assembly should arrange a special meeting to which the journalist could be invited.

A letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi in May 1954 to the National Spiritual Assembly of Germany and Austria states the following:

“The Guardian wishes me to direct your attention to the fact that none of the institutions of the Faith nor its cardinal principles may be changed under any circumstances.

“The 19 Day Feast is an institution of the Cause, first established by the Bab, later confirmed by Baha'u'llah, and now

“O Friends!

Abandon not the everlasting beauty for a beauty that must die, and set not your affections on this mortal world of dust.”

ag : —Bahd’u'llah

made a prominent part of the administrative order of the Faith. These 19 Day Feasts are for the Baha’is, and the Baha‘is exclusively, and no variation from this principle is permitted.

“Thus the Guardian feels you should rescind the action taken by your Assembly in opening the Feasts to ‘near Baha'is,” as it is not consistent with the spirit of the administrative order for non-Baha‘is or

Pictured are young people who took part October 25-27 ina youth retreat at the Bosch Baha’i School in Santa Cruz, California. The focus was on studying the life of Baha'u'llah. About 50 youth from Santa Barbara to Davis attended.

near Bahda’is to attend the 19 Day Feasts, particularly the administrative portion of the Feast.

“The Guardian realizes the spirit which animated you in making the suggested proposal, in order that the teaching work might go forward more aggressively; but he feels in the long run it would be detrimental to the Faith, and therefore should be rescinded as indicated above.”

On October 25 a fireside was held at UC-Santa Cruz with about 10 seekers present. The following evening, a group of young people who had been traveling

Union gave a talk and slide presentation.

Mutk 148 B.E./Fesruary 7, 1992 [Page 6]” REL seaelnbyen er

6 THe American BAHA'

Bah@’u'llaéh: A Portrait

by David Hofman HC $21.95

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BAHA'I! DISTRIBUTION SERVICE November 1991 BDS exhibit at the American Academy of Religion Convention attracts unprecedented attention.

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Shoghi Effendi, Gi function of interpreting the Bah: and with considerable emphi

dian of the Baha’i Faith, in exercising his i Revelation, dwelt at great length on the world order enshrined within istry he alluded to “those priceless elements of that Divine Civilization, the establishment of which is the primary mission of the Baha ith,” and over the years He penned a series of letters, generally referred to as his World Order letters, unfolding this theme. The vital necessity of world order is largely acknowledged today, but the means to achieve it baffle ev: passionate advocates. The Universal House of Justice has selected passages from Shoghi Effendi’s World Order letters, and offers them under the title Call to the Nations as a light and a guidance to all humanity in this dark period of our history. With the increased usage of the term “World Order” comes the complaint from many quarters that no one is defining what such an order implies. ‘The value of Call to the Nations as a source of such a de! led for both Baha'is and others. 5" x 7-3/4", 69 pp., foreword, introduction, references Bahd’i World Centre

su AA CR A TRYST) Unrestrained As the Wind: A Life Dedicated to Baha’u'llah

compiled from the Bahé'i Writings by the National Youth Committee and the Bahd’t Publishing Trust

SC $9.95

A long-awaited reprint of a compilation that sheds new light on basic aspects of a Baha’i life of service. The selections focus on how to integrate the many aspects of a spiritual life of service and dedication to the Cause of Baha'u'llah. The book opens with a selection of prayers for spiritual growth. Other chapters focus on ones relationship with God; living a distinctive Baha’ life; examples of inspiring Baha’{ role models; the role of education in transforming society; the importance of teaching; cleanliness and purity; interpersonal relationships and social relationships with both the old and new world ordets. The final chapter contains messages from the Universal House of Justice. These express hope for and confidence in young people, assuring them that “youth can move the world.”

Bana

The compilation was inspired by the 1984 message from the Universal House of Justice to the Baha’i youth of the world. The message which assured Baha’i youth that it is within their power “to contribute significantly to shaping the societies of the coming century.” It challenged them to become “living embodiments of Baha’i ideals.” For all Baha’i youth, and new or veteran believers, Unrestrained As the Wind provides an integtated view of what it means to dedicate ones life to Baha’u'Il4h and to rise to the challenge of being centered on the fundamentals of Baha’u'llah’s Faith and “unrestrained as the wind” in carrying His message.

191 pp., foreword, bibliography

Bahd’i Publishing Trust of the United States

Persian: Jamal-i-Abha

(The Life History of His Holiness Baha’u'llah)

by Riydd Ghadimi

HC $25.00

This short history of Baha’w'llih’s life is a synopsis of information gathered from several sources, including the Baha'i writings. Clearly written and well organized, itis intended for the general Baha'i audience—for the individual who has a general knowledge of the Baha’ teachings, but who does not know much of the history of Baha’u'llih’s life. Chapters include information on Baha’ w'lldh’s lineage, His parents and siblings, and stories from His childhood. ‘The appearance of the Bab and the nine years of His Dispensation also provide a backdrop for stories of Baha’w'Ilih. His three month ordeal in the Siyah Chal is recounted, asare stories from His time in Baghdad, the Garden of Ridvan, Istanbul (Constantinople), and Edirne (Adrianople). Stories from the last sixteen years of His life are set in ‘Akka and the surrounding area. 6-1/8" x 9-1/4", 199 pp., bibliography, index

University of Toronto Press

The Prince of Peace

SC $9.95

An absorbing account of the dramatic life of Baha” have overtaken the world in the last century-and-a-half and the great opportunity for world peace now, at long last, opening before the nations. The two steps of Baha'u'llah’s peace program—the Lesser Peace and the Most Great Pea w world order is shown as a practical reality. ah pervade the whole book, making it, as one review states, “an enthralling portrait” which “one can enjoy and become quotations from Baha’u llah’s aphorisms: The earth is but one country and mankind its citi: day order be rolled up and a new one spread out in it the peoples and kindreds of the earth is now come. 5-1/2" x 8-3/4", 200 pp., preface, introduction, bibliography, references, index George Ronald, Publisher

Il4h, set against the vast changes that

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otbed in... . a book of imm able value.” There own writings and many of His well-known NS. Soon will the present- hy ‘DAVID NORMAN we ead. ... The time foreordained unto. | #**

Studying the Writings of Shoghi Effendi

edited by Morten Bergsmo

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A study guide to twenty-one of the books and compiled letters of the Guardian beginning with a compilation from the Research Department of the Universal House of Justice and chapters on the life of Shoghi Effendi and his station as the Expounder of the Word of God. Each study guide consists of a brief description of the work, its significance, and the circumstances surrounding its genesis, followed by a list of thought-provoking questions. Accompanying each question is a page reference. References are to both the book being studied and to other books that elaborate the theme. The book is an important aid to understanding the writings of Shoghi Effendi. In the words of the editors, “It is . . . clear that a prolonged and systematic study of these (Shoghi Effendi’s) writings is an indispensable component of, and an adjunct to, the study of the Revelation of Baha’u'Ilah as a who! It unfolds to every believer a true understanding of the nature of the remedy the Divine Physician has prescribed for the ills of mankind, for it lays bare the innumerable gems that lie in the ocean of the revealed Word of God.”

6-1/8" x 9-1/4", 202 pp. foreword, introduction, bibliography, references, notes George Ronald, Publisher

Emergence: Dimensions of a New World Order

edited by Charles Lerche

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A book of six essays that adds a new dimension to the debate over humanity's collective future. It focuses on the ramifications of the emergence of the Baha’i model of world order, built on Baha’w’llah’s practical plan of action that puts the individual at the center of global transformation. Six specialists in conflict resolution, development, law, economics, history, and ecology present various dimensions of this unique world order model, and explore its implications for the radical transformation of our planet. Published for the thoughtful individual seeking to understand the upheavals of our age, Emergence: Dimensions of a New World Order is a stimulating presentation on the dynamic processes reshaping our civilization and our role in its future systems.

5-1/2" x 8-1/2", 180 pp., introduction, index

Bahda’i Publishing Trust of the United Kingdom

EMERGENCE

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Per/Eng: Baha’i Prayers

Bahdé'w'lldh, the Bab, and ‘Abdu’l-Baha

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A selection of twenty-three prayers published in English and in Persian. Although suitable for bilingual readers or readers of either language, its special value is for individuals who speak one of these two languages and wish to learn the other. The selection includes prayers for a ance, children, forgiveness, gratitude, healing, marriage, morning, the Short Obligatory Prayer, spiritual growth, and teaching. This inexpensive and easy-to-carry selection is especially suitable for Persian-reading, older children, youth, and adults 3-1/2" x 5-1/8", 45 pp.

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Persian: Hova’llah: Volumes 1 and 2

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Originally published by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of Iran, this much— loved selection of prayers revealed by ‘Abdu’l-Baha for children and youth is once again available. This new edition of Hova’lldh is attractively illustrated by Mariya Beale; simple and delicate drawings of scenes from nature further inspire a devotional and meditative mood. Suitable for Persian-reading children aged 5-10.

5-1/4" x 7", 60 pp.

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Mutk 148 B.E. / Fesruary 7, 1992 [Page 7]THe AMERICAN BAHA'T 7

Days of Certainty

by Martin Newman

CS $9.95

An album expressing Baha’i values in a “world” musical style similar to recent albums by Paul Simon. Side one begins with Dancing Round the Life Tree, a calypso beat with lyrics that speak of breaking lose from the chains that bind us and soaring to become the beings that we potentially are. The Kingdom features an acoustic guitar and maracas in an upbeat tuneabouta conversation between two people, one of whomsees “the kingdom rising slowly” and the other who can deal only with day-today living. Side Two includes Mr. Dream, a song with vocal qualities and rhyth interpretations of astrong European influence, similar to groups like Berlin or Elvis Costello. Its lyrical theme is the apparent merry-goround and paralysis of life in wanting more out of ourselves yet not believing that we can improve. Tell It to the World is another song, of European pop style whose lyrics tell the story of ‘someone who must find the Faith to believe in another.

approximately 30 minutes

Bahda’i Publishing Trust of the

United Kingdom

Tear Down Those Borders

by Peace Moves

CS $9.95

sophisticated, well- performed and produced cassette tape of Baha’i themes in a pop music style. Side One includes a mixture of themes, including the political transition that is occurring in Eastern Europe; Peace Moves; “the majesty and power (that) il inates theskies” surrounding the Baha’i House of Worship i India, Under Eastern Skies; a very touching tribute to the love and suffering of “Abdu’lBaha, ‘Abdu'l-Bahd; and a mournful “new age” music instrumental dedicated to the exile during the dead of Two opens with the idea that “we cannot rest till we can give it Peace on Earth as a gift to our children.” “If Ishould live or I should die it’s neither in your hands nor mine but God alone will show the way,” the reputed last words of Shirin Dalvand forms part of the lyrics of Sweet Shirin of Shiraz. Shirin was one of ten women including Mona Mahmudnizhad, (Mona Music Video and Mona with the Children) who was executed on June 18, 1983, for being a Baha'i . approximately 30 minutes

Baha'i Publishing Trust of the

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Bahda’i Datebook 149-50 B.E. (1992-93)

SC $3.25

This datebook from Australia uses. two-week-at-a-glance format showing both Baha’i and Gregorian dates. Baha’i and Gregorian names are provided for each day of the week and for each month. Holy Days, 19 Day Feasts, and the 19 Day Fast are also highlighted for easy reference. The datebook includes three pages for notes and eight pages available for addresses. Thirty-two quotes from Baha'u'llah, the Bab, and “Abdu’lBaha at the top of the calendar’s pages provide inspiration and focus for

developing a Baha’i spirit and identity. 3-3/4" x 6-3/4", 80 pp. Century Press Pty. Ltd.

The Day of God

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These short quotations from the writings of Baha'u'llah and the Bab focus on various aspects of the meaning of the “Day of God.” Each quotation is one page or less to present the central idea in an easy-to-read format. This title is one in a series from the Baha’i Publishing Trust of the United Kingdom that began with the popular booklets, Love of God and Glory of God. An example of the quotations is:

THE PROMISED DAY The potentialit herent in the station of man, the full measure of his destiny on earth, the innate excellence of his reality, must all be manifested in this promised Day of God.

Baha’u

"lah

3" x4", 24 pp. Bahd’i Publishing Trust of the United Kingdom

Faith in God

compilation from the Baha’ Writings

SC $.75

These short quotations from the writings of Baha’u’llah and ‘Abdu’l-Baha focus on various aspects of the meaning of faith. Each quotation is one page or less to present the central idea in an easy-to-read format. This title is one in a series from the Baha’i Publishing Trust of the United Kingdom that began with the popular booklets, Love of God and Glory of God. “An example of the quotations is:

THE FOUNDATION-STONE

Sincerity is the foundation-stone of faith. That is, a religious individual must disregard his personal desires and seek in whatever way he can wholeheartedly to serve the public interest; and it is impossible fora human being to turn aside from his own selfish advantages and sacrifice his own good for the good of the community except through true religious faith.

“Abdu’l-Baha 3" x4", 24 pp. Bahé’i Publishing Trust of the United Kingdom

Recent New Titles

Journal of Bahai Studies

Volume 3, Number 2

SC $6.00

This issue presents five major articles: The first is Selflessness: Congruences between the cognitive-development research program and the Baha'i Writings, by Rhett Diessner. ‘This article aims to illustrate four major concepts shared by cognitive-developmentalism psychology and the Sacred writings of the Baha’ Faith. The second article, Baha 'tApproach to the Claim of Exclusivity and Uniqueness in Christianity, by Seena Fazel and Khazeh Fananapazir, examines the nature of these claims that have led to conflicts within Christianity and alieniation from other faiths, and offers an approach to reconcile these divisions. The third article, From Copper to Gold: Finding Form, by Dorothy Freeman Gilstrap; looks at the biography of the Hand of the Cause of God Dorothy Baker and explores the four major areas of the book From Copper to Gold. Next, Racial Identity and the Patterns of Consolation in the Poetry of Robert Hayden, by John S. Hatcher, suggests that an accurate and careful reading of Hayden’s works reveal a clear pattern of consolation between his ethnic identity and his beliefs asa Baha’. The last article, Exploring Male Oppression from a Family-Systems Perspective, by Janet Huggins, explores sexual inequality and male oppression froma perspective adopted to encourage a more balanced and less prejudiced examination of these issues. The journal also includes research notes, commentaries, and reviews.

6" x9", 76 pp.

Association for Baha’i Studies

Ageing: Challenges and ee by A-M. Ghadirian

SC $9.95

What does the future hold for me? Some of us worry about what old age will bring; others look forward to the new opportunities that will arise as we grow older. In Ageing. Challenges and Opportunities, Dt. A-M. Ghadirian considers the process of ageing and how it affects different individuals. He also explores some of the myths about the ageing process and about being old. Inthe introduction Dr. Ghadirian writes, “This book intends to address the process of ageing and coping in the light of the Baha’i Writings and current professional knowledge. Old age is a neglected period of human life which needs to be closely examined, understood and prepared for.” Dr. Ghadirian is a professor of psychiatry at McGill University, Faculty of Medicine, and a senior psychiatrist at the Royal Victoria and the Douglas Hospitals in Montreal.

5-1/2" x 8-1/4", 132 pp., preface, introduction, references George Ronald, Publisher

Accents of God Enlighten Curriculum edited by M. K. Rohani Volume 5;Third Grade & VolSC $12.95 ume 6;Fourth Grade

= ao by Lea Iverson The Ascension of Baha’u’llah SC $19.95 per volume A Compilation HC $11.95 German: Baha’i Prayers Bahd’t Datebook HC (Leather) $19.95 eshacnae The Passi ‘Abdu'l-Baha The Baha'i Faith a Cape rs by the Baha'i Office of Public HC $14.95

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Mutk 148 B.E. / Fesruary 7, 1992 [Page 8]8 THE AMERICAN BAHA'T

CLASSIFIEDS

Classified notices in The American Baha'i are published free of charge as a service to the Baha'i 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‘tapproved by the National Spiritual Assembly; the friends should exercise their own judgment and care in responding to them.

BOOKKEEPING/accounting skills and experience needed. The Maxwell International Baha’i School is seeking a volunteerwith these skills; a retired person would be welcome. If you qualify, please contact the principal, Maxwell International Baha'i School, Bag 1000, Shawnigan Lake, B.C. VOR 2W0, Canada, or phone 604-743-7144 (fax 604-743-3522). A summary of your experience and a letter of reference from your local Spiritual Assembly or Auxiliary Board member would be appreciated.

THE BOSCH Baha'i School is accepting applications for summer 1992 employment. Positions available include children’s teachers (3), recreation director, lifeguard, music director, kitchen assistants (2) and maintenance assistants (3). All positions require a willingness to serve and interact with children, youth and adults. Those chosen will serve from July through August (9-10 weeks) and receive a small stipend plus room and board. To apply, send a brief résumé of your experience or ask for an application for employment from the

Bosch Baha'i School, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (phone 408-423-3387).

THE BANANI International Secondary School, in a lovely rural area near Lusaka,

community, is ing applica

tions from teachers and youth volunteers who are interested in serving the Faith overseas. Those who can offer assistance in science, math, or agriculture are especially needed. Please send résumés to the Principal, Banani International Secondary School, Private Bag RW 199X, Ridgeway 15102, Lusaka, Zambia,

AFRICA: Angola: health care personnel. Benin: primary school teachers. Burkina Faso: elementary, science/math teachers. Cape Verde: educator/administrator/rural agricultural expert/instructor. Ethiopia: volunteer physicians. Nigeria: technical adviser for UN's International Labor Office for social security/ national health insurance program. Swaziland: business development adviser. Zambia: teaching and administrative staff for Banani Girls School. AMERICAS: Brazil: primary school teachers. Cayman Islands: technical staff for UHF-TV and wireless cable system off Costa Rica: urgent need for special educ: teacher specializing in dyslexia. ASIA: India teachers. Macau: ESL teacher. Malaysia: physical science teacher, general manager for company manufacturing wooden door and window components. Pakistan: elementary school teachers. Rangoon, Burma: teachers. Thailand: volunteers to conduct English classes in Baha'i communities. AUSTRALASIA: Marshall Islands: primary school teachers. Pohnpei: business instructors. Solomon Islands: architect. Tinian, Marianas: teachers, doctors, nurses. Vanuatu: conservation biologist/environmental coordinator. EUROPE: Armenia: project manager for plastic and reconstructive surgery center. Estonia: teachers of English. Hungary: French and math teachers. Lithuania: English language teacher. Moscow: principals, teachers. Romania: elemen

tary teachers. MULTI-REGIONAL: training specialist/manager for vocational training project in Eastern Europe. University faculty needed for teaching positions on U.S. military bases in Europe and Asia. Consultants needed by Malaysian management company: agricultural credit specialist, agriculturalist, crop processing specialist, economist, environmental specialist, land-use specialist, sociologist. Auditors for USAID programs. Consultants for Central and Eastern Europe: agro-processing specialists, management consultants, foreign aid administration consultants. URGENT NEED for credentialed kindergarten and elementary teachers for the School of the Nations in Brazil. The headmaster of the school will be in the States in late February or early March to interview prospective candidates. URGENT NEED FOR TEACHERS at the Banani International School in Zambia, a secondary school for girls with emphasis on agriculture. OPPORTUNITIES FOR PIONEERS AND TRAVELING TEACHERS IN CAMBODIA. The re-establishment of the Baha’i community is being systemically achieved in Cambodia and the door is opening for friends from other countries to participate in this all-important work. Most helpful would be the assistance of traveling teachers, longterm and short-term pioneers of Cambodian background. For more information on any of the above, please contact the Office of Pioneering at the Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, telephone 708-869-9039 or fax 708-869-0247 Attn: Office of Pioneering.

URGENT NEED exists for traveling teachers to stay for periods of time and help with consolidation in the Soviet Union. Further information is available from the Ot of Pioneering, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039).

WINTER in southern Mexico. Here is an in-novative way to combine learning Spanish with teaching in that language. The Javier McKeever English Language Institute has a special arrangement for the winter school year. For more information, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Baha'i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039.)

THE NATIONAL Bahia‘i Archives is seeking, at the request of the Universal House of Justice, original letters written on behalf of the Guardian to the following individuals: Doris Kerber, Gloria M. Kessler, Mary Ketcham (died Holly Hill, FL, 1957), Lilyan Kiesewetter, au Kincaid (died Portland, OR, 1967), James (died Portland, OR, 1956), Stephen miller, Margaret Klebs, and Leonora B. Klein. Anyone knowing family members or relatives who might have these letters of the Guardian is asked to contact the National Baha'i Archives, Baha'i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039).

THENATIONAL Bahia‘ Archives has prepared a series of biographical sketches of prominent African-American, Native American, Hispanic and Asian Bahd‘is for use of local communities in special event observances suchas Black History Month, Race Unity Day, andothers. Any locai Spiritual Assembly wishing copies of these sketches or more information about them is asked to contact the National Baha'i Archives, Bahé’i National Center, Wilmette, IL.60091 (phone 708-869-9039).

OWN)

BECOME a homefront pioneer by renting the childhood home of the Hand of the Cause of God Martha Root in Cambridge Springs, Pennsylvania. Peaceful living in idyllic surroundings within easy reach of such urban centers as Erie, Pittsburgh, Cleveland and Buffalo. Three Baha'i families with a total of seven children ages 2-14 live within a 12minute drive. Easy commute to well-known universities, access to lovely countryside with some of the country’s last pure water lakes, clean air towns and pristine black bear territory. More important, because of Miss Root’s fame, this is a high-profile Baha'i property

with every visit to the local grocer a teaching trip. If interested, please write to Teresa or Arild Pettersen, Cambridge Springs, PA 16403, or phone 814-398-8118.

HOMEFRONT pioneers are needed in Milledgeville, a family-oriented, mediumsized town in two hours from Atlanta. There is a non-functioning Assembly in the county and a small Group in town. Milledgeville, near a large lake, has a fouryearcollege, astate hospital employing people in the field of mental health, a large prison, and anumber of industries. For more information, contact Sandy Jasnau,

Milledgeville, GA 31061, or phone 912-4522818.

BAHA’IS in Manhattan Beach, California, would welcome homefront pioneers to help save their jeopardized incorporated Assembly. The area offers beaches, jogging and biking trails, excellent schools, surfing, cultural

ivities. Convenient to UCLA, USC, Santa and downtown Los Angeles. Join a Baha'i community that is involved with local schools, libraries and children. Local Baha'i has a room to rent. For more information, please phone Tony or Flor at 213-379-0360.

WANTED: photocopies of correspondence to and from Roger White for a book about how the renowned poet has influenced and inspired Bahi‘is all over the world. Reminiscences are welcome too. Also needed: information about Keith Ransom-Kehler, Thomas Breakwell and Juliet Thompson. Please write to Anne G. Atkinson, Wilmette, IL 60091.

FOR A BOOK in progress for Oneworld Press on Martha Root, Keith Ransom-Kehler, May Maxwell, Marion Jack, Lua Getsinger, Hyde and Clara Dunn, Susan Moody, Dorothy Baker and Ella Bailey, I would like anyone with personal reminiscences of any of them to contact me. Write to Janet Ruhe-Schoen,

Chile, South

America.

BOOKS, educational materials, video tapes, pamphlets, posters, old magazines and catalogs, office machines, ete. are badly needed by our Baha'i brothers and sisters in other countries. If you would like to help support teaching and development abroad, please write and let me know specifically what you are willing to donate. I will send you the names and addresses of those who need such materials. Both Baha'i and non-Baha‘i materials are needed. Please do not send materials to me. Write to Vonnie Lincoln,

Lyons, OR 97358.

MEDIA SERVICES at the Baha'i National Center seeks professional-quality slides and photographs of Baha'i events for possible use. Especially needed are formal and informal shots of Spiritual Assemblies, teaching events, children’s activities, and diverse groups of people meeting, working, and enjoying recreational activities together. Please send slides or photos with a letter specifying whether they should be returned to: Baha‘i Media Services, Baha'i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

WANTED by Bahd’is in Florida: Information on Knights of Baha‘u'llah Ethel and Arthur Crane who pioneered to Key West in 1953 and later returned to Broward County where they died in the late 1960s. The Florida Baha‘is want to find people who knew them so that their story can be told. If you have any information about the Cranes, or know someone who does, please write to Larry Schwandes,

Gainesville,

FL 32606.

FROM THE HEARTS of the Handmaidens, an international newsletter for Baha'i women, is seeking poetry for an anthology of poems by, about or for women of the world. The editors are also seeking articles and subscriptions. Hearts is a newsletter whose aim is tofacilitate peace by working toward the worldwide emancipation of women “one heart at a time.” Articles include whateveris inthe hearts of women throughout the world or about

women. Many of the contributors and subscribers are men in support of women. For a complimentary copy, editorial guidelines for the newsletter and anthology, and more information, write to From the Hearts of the Handmaidens,

Lynnwood, WA 98037. Hearts has been approved by the U.S. National Baha’i Literature Review Board.

WORLD ORDER magazine is actively seeking book reviews. Such reviews should be 750-2,000 words (3-8 typewritten pages) long, double-spaced, and clearly written. Reviews may be written on recently published Baha’i books, non-Baha’i works that relate toa Baha’i teaching in some way, or any work that could be of potential interest to World Order's readers. Undergraduate and graduate students are especially encouraged to submit manuscripts. A list of books that particularly need to be reviewed is available on request, as are guidelines on preparing essays for World Order. Write to World Order magazine, 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091.

POEMS NEEDED for possible inclusion in a children’s trade book for grades K-3 on theme of intercultural/interracial harmony. Would like to include Baha’i poets (published ‘or unpublished) and especially need poems by minority or non-American poets (please indicate with your submission). Send to: Gail Radley, DeLand, FL 32724.

FOR A BOOK in progress for Oneworld Press on Martha Root, Keith Ransom-Kehler, May Maxwell, Marion Jack, Lua Getsinger, Hyde and Clara Dunn, Susan Moody, Dorothy Baker and Ella Bailey, I would like anyone with personal reminiscences of any of them to contact me. Write to Janet Ruhe-Schoen,

Chile, South

America.

DO YOU HAVE any poems lying around collecting dust? Are you a former or current poet waiting to be published? If you have any poems on themes in the Baha’ teachings, we would like to review them for possible inclusion in a book to be titled Poems for the Arc. Please send poems to Poems for the Arc,

Rockford, IL 61109.

EL RUISENOR (The Nightingale), a quarterly bi-lingual (Spanish-English) magazine sponsored by the National Spiritual Assembly, is available to Baha'is on a subscription basis. The magazine's editorial content is varied and includes items of interest to the Baha’i community around the world: current developments and goals of the Cause, articles aimed at deepening our understanding of the Baha'i teachings, reports of victories in the Hispanic community worldwide, ideas from the friends, a cultural page, letters to the editor, a calendar of national and international events, and other items of special interest to Baha'is everywhere. The subscription price is $10 a year (U.S. and Canada) and $12 a year overseas. Donations from Baha’i institutions and indi| Baha’is are welcomed. To subscribe, write to El Ruisefior, P.O. Box 512, San Fernando, CA 91340 (phone 818-361-6931).

THE 1992 EDITION of “The Directory of Baha'i Book Collectors, Bibliophiles and Researchers” is now being compiled. If you would like to be included, please write to Payam Afsharian, Santa Monica, CA 90402. The directory is distributed free of charge.

BAHA’U'LLAH compared tests and difficulties to “healing medicine” and “light and mercy.” We've all been through them, and we've all learned from them. Your tests and difficulties can help inspire others who may be undergoing similar trials. Write your story (anonymously if you wish; you may need to change other details as well). What bad things happened? What good came as a result? Let's put together a book that we can all turn to for comfort during the bad times to remind ourselves that “nothing can befall the loved ones of God save that which profiteth them.” Write to John Bower, San Pedro, Honduras.

[Page 9]THE AMERICAN BAHA'i 9

Guenrorp E. Mircuei

On the significance of the Holy Year 1992

(From a talk by Glenford E. Mitchell, a member of the Universal House of Justice, at the Bahd't House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois, December 18, 1991).

.

Good evening, friends. lam very happy to be with you. Iam always happy to be with you because I consider this to be my home, and whenever I have a chance, I steal away to get back to it. It is unlikely for me to be out of Haifa at this time of the year—but, you know, I have not experienced winter in the United States for many years now, and sol am very happy to be back—it doesn’t matter what the temperature is.

I want to give youa bit of news in addition to what you have just heard, but I'll start from a rather distant angle. While I was coming on the plane from Zurich to Chicago, I got a copy of that day's International Herald-Tribune, and on page 5 there is an article which begins with this paragraph, dateline Rome: “With a profusion of ecclesiastical pageantry, Roman Catholic bishops from eastern and western Europe have ended an important synod that did little to heal the churches’ historic rifts with other Christian churches but affirmed the Vatican's commi ment to a new crusade for followers after the Cold War.”

A TREMENDOUS CHALLENGE

Now, this goes on to tell about what happened, and there were 140 prelates there and so on, and the wars that they had over their concern about the former Soviet Union—former Eastern Bloc countries, and what plans they wanted to make to conquer—reconquer, as they would think—these countries. Now as I read this I realized that as this meeting was going on, this synod at the Vatican, that the Continental Board of Counselors for Europe were meeting in Haifa, and they came precisely for these reasons—to discuss the situation in the former Communist countries, which for us has become a tremendous challenge. And as you have heard, we will have more National Assemblies established in these areas in the next few months. I want to tell you also that any time now, we should be receiving an announcement revising the number of National Spiritual Assemblies. There will be additional National Spiritual Assemblies next Ridvan. And not only in Europe but in other parts of the world.

Not so long ago, at the World Center, the friends developed an interest in the Holy Year, and so I received a message by E-mail one day, asking me to speak on the significance of the Holy Year—which I did, eventually. But after my talk, and after hearing the comments of the friends, I suddenly thought about you. And I wanted to talk to you about the same thing—the significance of the Holy Year. We have not had enough time, in six years almost of the Six Year Plan, to stop to think about it. We've been so busy chasing goals and trying to create the conditions for the Holy Year that we have not discussed it, I suppose, sufficiently among ourselves. So I thought I would discuss this with you using my old notes from that other talk.

Now, the first question that came to my mind after receiving this invitation to speak on the significance of the Holy Year was tI What is time? Because it has to do with time. What is time? I found myself preoccupied with this question for weeks. So I had to do a little reading—not enough, by any measure—but to satisfy my curiosity about this question. So I came up with these random and limited thoughts about it. As an independent phenomenon, time can be defined by no one. Time is somewhat understood in relation to other phenomena such as space, motion, events. But time remains a mystery. The World Book Encyclopedia says, “Time is one of the world’s deepest mysteries. No one can say exactly what it is.” In its naturalness, constancy and pervasiveness in all life, time preserves its mystery. By these very virtues, it impresses itself upon every consciousness, even if it cannot be completely defined. Augustine once said of time: “If no one asks me, I know. If I want to in it to a questioner, I do not know.” You try to ime to somebody.

If such a great mind encountered such difficulty, why should I dwell on the question? It would probably be more rewarding to contemplate a related question, which

is, “What is the meaning of time?” Time has meaning for all expressions of life. It has meaning in science, history, literature, in work and in play. Time acts upon life in ways beyond our reckoning —and life acts upon time and through time. It occurs to me that time in its omnipresence and constancy harbors an indefinable divine quality which we associate with the divine Creator. We talk about past, present and future. Eternity. If you look at what God says in The Hidden Words about His “immemorial being” and the “ancient eternity of His essence,” you will see what I mean when I say that by its omnipresence and constancy it harbors an indefinable divine quality which we associate with the divine Creator.

THE MEANING OF TIME

Well, for the purposes of our discussion this evening, I would like to give some consideration to the meaning of time in history. Perhaps I'll get into serious trouble with those who know better when I say that history is what we make of time. Or, put differently, what we consciously make of time becomes history, and thus provides us with some meaning to life. But history, as you know, can be meaningless. There are long stretches of time to which we can attach no significance—no history. For instance, the Dark Ages. What happened? We often attach meaning to history according to what outstanding persons do. We often identify periods of time by what such persons doand the extent of their influence in changing the course of events or in creating a new understanding of life or in starting what passes down the generations as traditions.

The most outstanding individuals with whom periods of time are identified are the Manifestations of God. Well, need I elaborate in saying to a Baha'i audience that these Manifestations of God are the Fountainheads of history? They teach us the meaning of time and make time meaningful. For example: as Baha'is, we understand that there are different cycles. We speak of the prophetic cycle. Baha’u'llah tells us about the cycle of

[The Holy Year]...is a time for transmuting memory into deeds of heroic proportions. It is a time made sacred by such activities.

fulfillment...and we know that there will be other cycles in the far future.

But getting closer to the point of our topic, what has Baha’‘u'llah told us about now, and the kind of history we might expect? Here are some of His statements: “The purpose underlying all creation is the revelation of this most sublime, this most holy Day: the Day known as the Day of God in His books and scriptures, the Day which all the Prophets and the Chosen Ones and the Holy Ones have wished to witness.” Just think about it. “The purpose underlying all creation,” He says, “is the revelation of this Day.” That is a very profound statement, one very difficult to comprehend. He says, “The Day of the promise is come”—speaking about now. He says, “A fleeting moment in this Day excelleth centuries of a bygone age. Neither sun nor moon hath witnessed a Day such as this Day.” Furthermore, He says, “Peerless is this Day, for it is as the eye of past ages and centuries, and as a light unto the darkness of the times.” He also says, “This is the Day in which God's most excellent favors have been poured out upon men, the Day in which His most mighty grace hath been infused into all created things.” You'll recall that in one of His statements, Baha’u'llah speaks of every created thing in this Day being endowed with all the potentialities it can bear. So the factor of time is important here. Think about it.

Shoghi Effendi, the Guardian of the Cause, was constantly calling to our attention the significance of now— the time in which we live. You'll remember his letters and what he would say: “While there is yet time” was a frequent phrase in his letters. “While there is yet time.” He spent paragraphs telling us about time; about ages and epochs—cycles. This letter that he wrote in—when was it?—June of 1947—I think we call it...what do we call this? Help me, one of you...oh, yes, “Challenges and

Requirements of the Present Hour.” In this, the first four, five, six paragraphs, he discusses time...epochs. I think it’s in that letter that he is encouraging us to move because of the urgency of the moment, and he says, “They can neither retrace their steps, nor falter, nor even afford to mark time.” He talks about the sands running out; he would tell us that when there was a special situation in the world or a special opportunity presented to the community, he would say something like this, that such a favorable conjunction of circumstances may never again recur, or may not occur fora hundred years. And of course, in one of his most extraordinary letters, the one addressed to the Baha‘is who met here in the Intercontinental Conference in May 1953, he gives us a dazzling outline of time—the meaning of time. And he divides up all of historic time into portions. We are now in the tenth part of the time that he discussed with us.

Wuart ts a Hoty Year?

So, then, in such a stupendous period as Baha'u'llah’s statements imply, what is a Holy Year? In a search for precedents in history, I could find nothing from Islam. I checked out the encyclopedias, I talked to my friends who are scholars in Islam. They had never heard of such athing as a Holy Year in Islam. But in Roman Catholicism there issuchaconceptasa Holy Year. I read one of their encyclopedias and some other things. Now, according to the New Catholic Encyclopedia, whatever edition I read, a Holy Year is “a year during which a solemn plenary indulgence is granted to the faithful”—I am quoting — “under certain conditions, and special faculties are given to confessors.”

There are two kinds of Holy Year—two kinds. You have the ordinary Holy Year which occurs at regular intervals; that is, every 25 years, and you have the extraordinary Holy Year which is proclaimed for some special reason. For instance, there was one in 1933 to celebrate the anniversary of the Redemption. Now, the ordinary Holy Year begins on the 24th of December— Christmas eve—with the first vespers of Christmas; that is, at whatever period it comes. Holy doors of four basilicas are simultaneously opened. These places are visited by the faithful, and Rome is thronged at such a time. The first Holy Year was observed in 1300—that is, the first Catholic Holy Year—and up until 1950 there had been about 25 of the ordinary ones.

‘Now, the concept of a Holy Year for Christians may have evolved from the Jubilee Year which was celebrated in pre-exilic Judaism every 50 years. It wasa year of remission in which debts were pardoned, and in some cases, slaves were freed. The medieval Popes came to apply such a custom spiritually, declaring a Holy Year or a Jubilee which was intended to improve the religious life of the faithful.

Now, when we come to the Baha'i Holy Year, we find that it is different in nature. Of course, we've had only one experience with it. So we might well ask ourselves, what are the distinguishing characteristics of a Baha'i Holy Year? Now this is my own summary; I can’tattribute it to anybody. It is a time to commemorate a special history, a time to reflect and meditate upon the meaning of that history, to take special or extraordinary action induced by the memory of that special history. It is a time for transmuting memory into deeds of heroic proportions. It

Genrorp E. MitcHeLt

Mutk 148 B.E. / Fesruary 7, 1992 [Page 10]10 THe AmericAN BAHA'i

is a time made sacred by such activities.

Now, as you know, the concept of Holy Year in the Faith was introduced by Shoghi Effendi in a message dated 30 November 1951. Now, you'll remember—those of you who were a part of that time and experience as Baha‘is—that we were near the conclusion of the second Seven Year Plan. It was a message of tremendous evocative power. I'd like to reacquaint you with some of the language of it. It’s a cable, so it’s in cable-ese. And it was sent here. It says, “Convey all National Assemblies Baha‘i world the following momentous announcement,” and it opens this way: “Approaching great Jubilee commemorating centenary termination Babi Dispensation birth Bahd’u'llah’s Revelation in Siyah-Chal Tehran as well as imperative necessity adopt effectual measures ensure befitting inauguration third concluding phase of initial epoch in the execution of *Abdu’l-Baha’s Divine Plan destined culminate hundredth anniversary of Declaration of Founder of Faith in Baghdad impel me summon entire Baha'i world through 11 National Assemblies already functioning in East and West bestir itself arise during 16 months ahead through supreme concerted sustained effort prepare for demonstration of Baha'i solidarity of unprecedented scope and intensity during entire course Baha‘ history. Stop.” That's one sentence of his cable.

HIGHLY SIGNIFICANT MEASURE

Till read a couple more paragraphs.

This is a long cable. “Forthcoming celebrations must be signalized through inauguration long-anticipated intercontinental stage in administrative evolution of Faith marking its gradual development through successive phases of local, regional, national, international Baha'i activity. Initiation this highly significant measure further cementing Baha‘i National Assemblies in five continents of globe will be acclaimed by posterity as counterpart to consolidation Faith at its World Center through recent formation International Baha'i Council in Holy Land.” You'll remember that it was in 1951 that the International Baha‘i Council, the forerunner of the Universal House of Justice, was formed.

And then this other paragraph and then I'll quit because this is a lot to take in cable-ese: “Centennial festivities of Year Nine continuing throughout Holy Year”—this is the first time that the phrase Holy Year has been used— “commencing October 1952 must include, apart from consummation plans initiated by various National Assemblies both hemispheres, the formal dedication for public worship of Mother Temple of West in heart North American continent and possible termination superstructure of Bab’s sepulcher in Holy Land; the convocation of four Intercontinental Baha’i Teaching Conferences to be held successively in course historic year on continents of Africa, America, Europe and Asia.” Now, friends, you had to have been living at that time to realize, to sense the tremendous enthusiasm that this message produced among, the Baha‘is. It goes on, but you should read it yourself.

So the Baha‘i Holy Year that was initiated by the Guardian in 1952-53, October to October—what was it? It was an occasion for the centennial commemoration of the end of the Babi Dispensation. You'll remember that it was in 1853 that Baha‘u'llah had His experience in the Siyah-Chal...when His ministry was made known to Him. And immediately it ended the Babi Dispensation— that experience He had in the Siyah-Chal. The Year Nine refers to the number of years since the Declaration of the Bab in 1844 to that experience in 1853. Nine years; the Year Nine.

This Holy Year also marked the inauguration of what the Guardian called the initial epoch in the execution of

Abdu’l-Bahda’s Divine Plan. Now, what are we talking

about here? There were two Seven Year Plans in which North America was involved; there were other Plans that involved other communities, but we remember the two Seven Year Plans; and now he was saying that the initial stage was to be inaugurated. That was the Ten Year World Crusade which the Guardian started in 1953, and at the end of that we had the completion of the first epoch of the Divine Plan.

Now, what were the features of the centennial festivities of that year? Just to recap: you had the consummation of the Plans undertaken by NSAs in both hemispheres; formal dedication of this Mother Temple; he announced the possible termination of the superstructure of the Bab’s sepulcher—it became a reality—the convocation of four

Shoghi Effendi i

Intercontinental Conferences; these were, for the first time, occurring in the Baha‘i world—Intercontinental Conferences—no one ever heard of such a thing before. These were epoch-making conferences, really, immortalizing the centenary of that memorable year.

As I delved into this and read the letter and recalled some of what was happening—I was a youngster at the time and didn’t know all the details myself—I was thinking, what surrounded this year? What was going on when Shoghi Effendi made this announcement? What was actually going on in the world—the Baha'i world? And what happened through the Holy Year that surrounded it? And so I looked at his letters which, of course, provide an index for this.

TRIPLE ANNOUNCEMENT

First of all, we know about the Plans that were going on. Then, we see that in his messages, he talks about the establishment of relationships between the old and new Covenant-breakers; that is in December of ‘51. After he has made this announcement, he sends a message and he says that this thing has happened. A very sad piece of

..the concept of the Holy Year was introduced by je dated 30 November 1951. ..[t was a message of tremendous evocative power.

amessag

news. Then, almost immediately after that—well, maybe three months later, he announces the appointment of the first contingent of Hands of the Cause of God. It is February 1952. And the following month, he makes what he calls a triple announcement: the arrival of materials for the Drum of the Bab’s Shrine; investigation was initiated for fabrication of gilded tiles for the dome—the final material necessary for construction of the superstructure. The second announcement was about the enlargement of the International Baha’i Council, and the third was the call for the election of the National Spiritual Assembly of Italy. At that time Dr. Ugo Giachery was on pilgrimage. He sent this message, and he said that he was sending him back to make preparations for the formation of that National Assembly which became the 12th Assembly to bear the burden of the Ten Year World Crusade.

We find in the Guardian's message of 26 March, just about two weeks or so, or three weeks, from that time, a very sad, tragic matter, the death of the architect of the superstructure of the Shrine of the Bab, Sutherland Maxwell. And then, almost immediately, ina matter of a week or two, he tells us that six acres of land was acquired in the precincts of the Shrine of the Bab, bringing the holdings on Mount Carmel to 50 acres. And again, news about the Covenant-breakers. He says the Covenantbreaker Nayer Afnan, the connecting link between the old and new Covenant-breakers, has died. This is a few months after he made the previous announcement about the connection.

And then comes a cable—another three weeks, almost three weeks—announcement of victories throughout the world for the Faith. So you see, these cables alternated between joy and sadness. And then another cable, on 11 June, about the rapid progress of the Faith and the declining fortunes of the Covenant-breakers. And of course, on the 8th of October comes the message about the commencement of the Holy Year. Let me give youa taste of the language that he employed in announcing the Holy Year and telling us about what to expect. It opens with this sentence: “Hail, with feelings of humble thankfulness and unbounded joy, opening of the Holy Year commemorating the centenary of the rise of the Orb of Bahda'u'llah’s most sublime Revelation marking the consummation of the 6,000-year cycle ushered in by Adam, glorified by all past prophets and sealed with the blood of the Author of the Babi Dispensation.” That is the opening sentence of that message.

“Spiritual Crusave’”

Now anon, he tells us this: “Feel hour propitious to proclaim to the entire Baha‘i world the projected launching on the occasion of the convocation of the approaching Intercontinental Conferences on the four continents of the globe the fate-laden, soul-stirring, decade-long, worldembracing Spiritual Crusade involving the simultaneous initiation of 12 national Ten Year Plans and the concerted

participation of all National Spiritual Assemblies of the Baha'i world aiming at the immediate extension of Baha‘u'llah’s spiritual dominion as well as the eventual establishment of the structure of His administrative order inall remaining sovereign states, principal dependencies comprising principalities, Sultanates, Emirates, Shaykhdoms, Protectorates, Trust Territories, and Crown Colonies scattered over the surface of the entire planet.” One sentence. “The entire body of the avowed supporters of Baha‘u'llah’s all-conquering Faith are now summoned to achieve, in a single decade, feats eclipsing in totality the achievements which in the course of the 11 preceding decades illuminated the annals of Baha'i pioneering.” Now, you should have been in the seat receiving this message at that time. Tremendous enthusiasm was generated by it, and wonder and awe at the whole thing.

So that was one thing that was happening in and around the Holy Year. Then of course, the Intercontinental Conferences came, and marvelous messages were issued by Shoghi Effendi to these conferences. One of those that you will want to remember forever—he sent two messages to the conference here, and in one of them he explained the meaning of time to us...of historic time. Something extraordinary and out of this world; it’s dazzling, and you should read it. So Kampalain February 1953; Wilmette— Chicago—in May 1953, Stockholm, July 1953, and New Delhi in October 1953.

Now, in the meantime, he sent out a message, in May of 1953 telling us about things; and then, at the end of this message, he says this—and this will have relevance to what we will do in this other Holy Year coming up—he says this: “Planning to inscribe in chronological order the names of the spiritual conquerors on an illuminated Roll of Honor to be deposited at the entrance door of the inner Sanctuary of the Tomb of Bahd‘u'llah as a permanent memorial of the contributions of the champions of His Faith at the victorious conclusion of the opening campaign of the Global Crusade which is destined to attain consummation at the Most Great Jubilee commemorating the centenary of the Declaration of His Mission.” That is how he announced to the Baha'i world that he was inscribing on the Roll of Honorthe names of the pioneers. They became known as Knights of Baha‘u’llah.

Supine oF BAB COMPLETED

Then at the end of the period, at the final conference of 1953, in New Delhi, he makes again a triple announcement. The Shrine of the Bab is completed; it is done! It is no longer a possibility; it is an accomplished fact. He talks about settlement of pioneers in virgin territories and names them, and he says that preliminary steps have been taken to acquire the Temple land on Mount Carmel. Now the pilgrims go happily to this Temple land, not knowing all of the excitement which was generated behind its acquisition by the announcement of this...brought by this message. So then, friends, the Holy Year that the Guardian initiated had all of these elements to it. A very exciting time. We couldn't sleep.

So then, what about this other Holy Year, the one that we now anticipate? On the 2nd of January 1986, the Universal House of Justice addressed a message to the Baha’i world. It was done on the final day of the conference of Continental Boards of Counselors at the World Center: “Ridvan 1992 will mark the inception of a Holy Year during which the centenary of the Ascension of Bahda‘u'llah will be observed by commemorations around the world, and the inauguration of His Covenant will be celebrated in the City of the Covenant by the holding of the second Baha'i World Congress.” This announcement, then, cast upon our mental screens a new configuration.

Subsequent numerous communications of the House of Justice allude to the Holy Year, but it is not until 1990 that it begins—that is, the House of Justice—to amplify the purposes of this designated period. So we find, for instance, that in its message of Ridvan 1990 it speaks of the Holy Year as “that special time when we shall pause to appreciate the tumultuous record of events which will have brought us to this centenary of the Ascension of Baha'u'llah and to reflect with due solemnity upon the redemptive purpose of the life of the most precious Being ever to have drawn breath on this planet.” We find in that same message a reference to the Holy Year as “a high water mark of Baha‘i history.” In its message of Ridvan 1991, it refers to the Holy Year as “a conscious year-long pause to allow His followers to pay befitting regard to the

Mutk 148 B.E. / Fesruary 7, 1992 [Page 11]centenary of the Ascension of Baha’u'llah and of the inauguration of His world-unifying Covenant.”

I would like to go back to that first statement about “reflecting with due solemnity upon the redemptive purpose of the life of the most precious Being ever to have drawn breath on this planet” because it is quite a statement, and somebody asked the House of Justice about it. And I think I told you this when I was here the last time, but I'll repeat—I will read the text of how they explained this to this particular questioner. The person wanted to know how such a statement could be made, or what was the meaning of it, when we have been told that all the Prophets of God sit on the same throne, utter the same speech and so on, and there's no difference between them. This is a very important question; I found it a rather important matter to understand myself. And so the House of Justice instructed the Secretariat to reply in this way, and I'll read the whole letter to you because I think we should understand it:

“The House of Justice appreciates your frankness concerning your puzzlement over the statement in its Ridvan 1990 message referring to Baha‘u'llah as ‘the most precious Being ever to have drawn breath on this planet.’ You are entirely correct in drawing upon Bahd‘u'llah’s statement, cited on pages 78 to 79 of Gleanings from the Writings of Bahd'u'lléh, to point out the oneness and sameness of the essence of all the Prophets of God. The statement of the House of Justice should not be taken to imply anything to the contrary, but rather should be seen in the historical context of His Revelation, and in its nature and character relative to the Revelations that preceded it.

BEARERS OF A DISTINCT MESSAGE

“As Baha'u'llah has said in the same passage in the Gleanings from which you quoted, “The measure of the Revelation of the Prophets of God in this world, however, must differ. Each and every one of them hath been the Bearer of a distinct message, and hath been commissioned to reveal Himself through specific acts.’ According to His own Revelation, Baha‘u'llah has testified to ‘the inconceivable greatness of this Revelation’ and said, ‘That which hath been made manifest in this pre-eminent, this most exalted Revelation stands unparalleled in the annals of the past, nor will future ages witness its like.”

“In the following statement written on his behalf, Shoghi Effendi offers important clarification on the question of the sameness of the essence of the Prophets and the comparative qualities of their Revelations in this world. ‘Baha’u'llah is not the intermediary between other Manifestations and God. Each has His own relation to the Primal Source. But in the sense that Baha‘u'llah is the greatest Manifestation to yet appear, the One Who consummates the Revelation of Moses—He was the One Moses conversed with in the Burning Bush; in other words, Baha'u'llah identifies the glory of the Godhead on that occasion with Himself. No distinction can be made amongst the Prophets in the sense that they all proceed from one Source and are of one essence. But’—and this isa crucial point—‘but their stations and functions in this world are different.”

The letter goes on to say, “This statement calls to mind several passages from the Writings of Baha‘u'llah which Shoghi Effendi quotes in God Passes By, on page 99: ‘In this most mighty Revelation, He (Baha'u'llah), moreover, states, ‘All the Dispensations of the past have attained their highest, their final consummation.’ And again, ‘None among the Manifestations of old, except to a prescribed degree, hath ever completely apprehended the nature of this Revelation.’ Referring to His own station”"—that is, Baha‘u'llah’s own station—“He declares: ‘But for Him, no divine Messenger would have been invested with the robe of prophethood, nor would any of the sacred scriptures have been revealed.’” A very interesting point. When you think that so much of the sacred matter of the past was an announcement of this Day, youcan see immediately how this comes into focus. The letter goes on to say, “Also of relevance to the difference in stations between Baha'u'llah’s Revelation and those which have preceded or will come after it is the beloved Guardian's response to an inquiry which as conveyed said, “There is no record in history or in the Teachings of a Prophet similar in station to Baha'u'llah having lived 500,000 years ago. There will, however, be

One similar to Him in greatness after the lapse of 500,000 years.’” So you see, when the House of Justice speaks of “the most precious Being ever to have drawn breath on this planet,” that’s behind it. Anatomy oF THE Hoty Year

Now then, let's get to this Holy Year and get into it— get into an anatomy of it. What are the special characteristics of this? First, we have the centennial commemoration in the Holy Land; that is, the commemoration of the centenary of the Ascension of Baha’u'llah. The House of Justice talks about “the gathering of representatives of the Baha‘i world along with the Knights of Baha‘u'llah at Bahji in the precincts of the Mansion and in the vicinity of the Most Holy Shrine wherein the Roll of Honor of the Knights of Baha'u'llah will be deposited as a gesture indicative of the response of His lovers to His call to spread His teachings throughout the earth. There, at Bahji, this gathering will engage in a solemn act of worship.”

Now I want to tell you a little bit about the plans surrounding this major event. Of course, the whole es

..the event in the Holy Land will be the pivotal event, but there'll be waves...of action, so to speak, spreading out to cover the entire globe.

sence of the thing is to be involved in this act of worship in the vicinity of the Holy Shrine. But we find that there are other things connected with it; for instance, the deposit of the Roll of Honor will be on the morning of the 28th of May next year, 1992. It will be a Thursday morning, and the friends—meaning the representatives of various countries, the Knights of Baha'u'llah, the Hands of the Cause, the Counselors and everybody, will gather at Bahji for this occasion on that morning. And then, of course, that night, leading to the 29th, they'll come back for the devotional exercise. Then following that, on the morning of the previous night, you know, the afternoon of the 29th, there will be a procession from the foot of the mountain—you know, this ascent to the Shrine of the Bab—the Shrine will be circumambulated, then the friends will proceed from there up to the Seat of the House of Justice along the Arc path, there to view the portrait of Baha'u'llah. And that will be the final event for that gathering. We hope that there will be the largest gathering of Baha'is in the Holy Land; as you know, 19 can come from each National Assembly area, nine each from other areas that have no NSAs. And the Knights of Baha'u'llah will be there—I expect that they have received their invitations by now.

The House of Justice, of course, tells us that there should be related events throughout the Baha'i world, and in a message that was sent out on its behalf by the Secretariat we find this: “You will want to make sure,” it says, “that a proper devotional program takes place in each locality at the appropriate time, on 29 May, and that the best effort is made to uphold the pre-eminent importance, the dignity and the profoundly spiritual character of the occasion, to which non-Baha'is may be invited according to the discretion of the Spiritual Assemblies.” That is that night event. I want you to know that the media in Europe are developing a very keen interest in this event, and already German national television has asked for permission to cover it.

Itsays that “beyond these devotional gatherings”—no, I'm mixing up my lines—“beyond these devotional programs the friends may plan to hold other special events— national, regional or local—for the benefit of both themselves and non-Baha’is to give a more public character to the observance of this anniversary and at which informative and inspirational presentations on the life and teachings of Baha’u'llah can be made and discussions held.” Wo te BatiA'i WoRLD INVOLVED

So, the whole Baha’i world will be involved in this, and the event in the Holy Land will be the pivotal event, but there'll be waves, you see, of action, so to speak, spreading out to cover the entire globe. So in a period of 24 hours, every hour the Baha’is will be gathering to commemorate this occasion.

Now the second event, of course, will be the Baha’i World Congress to be held in New York, and the House of Justice refers to that in its 1991 message as—it says

THE AMERICAN BAHA 11

this: “...the World Congress scheduled to be held on 23 to 26 November 1992 in New York City, where the beloved Master revealed the implications of His station as the appointed Center of the Covenant of Baha‘u'llah and which He designated as the City of the Covenant.” They goon to tell us that “throughout the world Baha’i communities will hold appropriate auxiliary events to magnify the Congress's purpose, which is to celebrate the centenary of the inauguration of the Covenant of Baha’u'llah and to proclaim its aims and unifying power.” Celebrate. It's a different thing from what will occur in May of 1992.

Now, what is meant by “celebration” in this case? The House of Justice has expressed its views about this, and ina letter—the same one I referred to earlier, the 3 April 1991 letter to all National Spiritual Assemblies written at its direction by the Secretariat—we find this statement about celebration, and I want to read the whole paragraph to you because I think it's very important that we all understand it. It says, “Celebration in this connection does not mean merely festive activities. It is primarily a spiritual celebration that is called for: occasions for deep reflection on the historic importance, the uniqueness, the meaning and the efficacy of the Covenant established by Baha‘u'llah, on the outstanding results of its influence in raising up a worldwide community comprising a great diversity of members, and on the triumph of its virtue asa unifying power. At the heart of such reflection must be contemplation of the peerless purpose, magnetic person, luminous character and exemplary acts of *Abdu’l-Baha as the Center and living embodiment of the Covenant of Baha‘u'llah. Consciousness of the exceptional and glorious stage in humanity’s evolution initiated by the Covenant, the awe such consciousness inspires and the thankful gladness it induces are of the essence of the celebration intended by the World Congress and all other events associated with this centenary. A major purpose of these events will therefore be to evoke this solemn consciousness, which is itself the wellspring of the most exquisite celebratory joy. In this spirit the commemorative activities around the world should acclaim and proclaim the Covenant as the pivotal center of unity for all humankind and illustrate its dynamic effect on the struggle, the spread and the redemptive achievements of the Baha’i community since the passing of the Blessed Beauty.” So there you have it.

The explanation of celebrations thus provided by the House of Justice has established the framework for the program and activities which will be associated with the World Congress in New York. Now, I would like to discuss with you some of the characteristics, or character, features or whatever, of the World Congress. There are three things that I'd like to highlight, and that is New York City, and the size, and the program.

New York City A SPECIAL PLACE

In my view, New York City is itself a special and indispensable element of this celebration. Now, time does not allow for me to relate the extraordinary and exciting circumstances on 19 June, 1912, in which “Abdu’l-Baha conferred this honor on New York. Shoghi Effendi refers to its importance in God Passes By and in many of his letters. ‘Abdu’l-Baha’s actions in New York clearly endowed that city with unusual capacity, and He held great expectations for it.

Now it doesn’t matter what our opinion is of the current state of New York; that is irrelevant. In the same way that it doesn’t matter what our current opinion is of Iran in its present state of God-knows-what. Or of the Holy Land, for that matter. It is the act, the sacred acts associated with these places that endow them with such potency and such potential for the future.

Now, ‘Abdu’-Baha had things to say about New York which will gladden your heart and give you a new perspective. In His final meeting in New York with the friends, after He had spent so many months here in this country, and in North America in general, He said this: “I have attended more meetings in New York than in all other cities combined.” Can you believe this? Out of His own mouth He said this. He ought to have known what He was doing. “I have attended more meetings in New York than in all other cities combined. Day and night, individually and collectively, you have listened to the teachings and exhortations of Baha‘u'llah. I have proclaimed

Continued on page 12

Mutk 148 B.E. / Fesruary 7, 1992 [Page 12]12° THe American BAHA'i

unto you the glad-tidings of the Kingdom of God and explained the wishes of the Blessed Perfection. I have set forth that which is conducive to human progress and shown you the humility of servitude. The teachings of Bahda‘u'llah have been clearly interpreted. The time has now come when I must leave you. Therefore, this will be our farewell meeting.”

Abdu’l-Baha also expressed His feelings about New

York as a physical entity. He said in His first talk in New York, “I am greatly pleased with the city of New York. The harbor entrance, its piers, buildings and broad avenues are magnificent and beautiful. As New York has made such progress in material civilization, I hope that it may also advance spiritually in the Kingdom and Covenant of God so that the friends may become the cause of the illumination of America, that this city may become the city of love, and the fragrances of God may be spread from this place to all parts of the world.”

In another statement, He expresses a wish that New York will become “a blessed spot from which the call to steadfastness in the Covenant and Testament of God will go forth to every part of the world.” To some extent this has already occurred. But just let your imagination roam for awhile, and think about all of the possil with modern technology, modern means of communication, and with this glorious event that is to take place there.

So, this New York is the place in which a joyful noise is to be made about the 100th anniversary of the inauguration of the Covenant of Baha'u'llah. This noise will reverberate throughout the earth. There is no doubt about it; none whatsoever.

‘Another special characteristic of the World Congress will be its size. I remember when the House of Justice decided that it should be held and the time came to ask the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States to find an accommodation for the Congress, the House of Justice told the Assembly to find a place with a capacity for 30,000 to 40,000 people. So it had big numbers in mind; it still does. The fact of the matter is that after a hundred years we ought to be able to pull together at least 40,000 Baha‘is—after a hundred years—to indicate that something happened after Baha'u'llah left this planet.

You can imagine the daunting logistical challenge that this presents. New York , in its present configuration and _state—30,000 Bah: hotels scheduled all over town—wow!

PROGRAM A SPECIAL ELEMENT

Still another special element of the World Congress will be the program itself. The program committee appointed by the House of Justice received the following instruction. I'll just read a part of it: “Every appropriate means of expression, whether through speech, music, other forms of the arts or other media of communications will be employed to produce a rarefied effect worthy of the spiritual and historic occasion to be memorialized by the World Congress.” So we have to have an event that is far beyond just “talking heads,” however significant those heads might be.

This thing is to take place in a building which was completed after the announcement of the Holy Year, and the National Assembly didn’t have a clue that such a building was under construction at the time. And its flat space, and the space that we'll have, is two blocks long— I mean two city blocks of New York long. And that flat space will have to be converted into an environment that will satisfy the Baha’is.

Well, the fascinating details of the program will become known to you in due course, but I'd like to say that the program will operate on a scale never before achieved—or attempted, I should say, since it hasn't been achieved yet—for a Baha’i event. It will have an impact on the public no less than on the Baha‘i community itself. As you know, national and local communities throughout the Baha'i world have been asked by the House of Justice to hold events in relation to the World Congress, and so again we'll have the ripple effect, we'll have this pivotal program, and we will have this wave of activities throughout the Baha‘i world. And I’m sure that the friends everywhere will be touched by the event in New York.

The House of Justice, or the Secretariat, I should say, writing at its behest, said that “the prospect of such events should encourage the friends to study the history and meaning of the Covenant. In such study the Continental Counselors, the Auxiliary Board members and their assistants will no doubt be sources of encouragement, stimulation and assistance.”

Now, one more word...time is passing and you are

getting tired...one more word about the World Congress. The first World Congress—as you know, it was held in Londonat the end of the Ten Year World Crusade to mark the centenary of Baha‘u'llah’s declaration—the first World Congress affirmed to the Baha‘is themselves that their Faith was a world religion, and that they had become a world community. You have to understand what was happening then. The Ten Year Crusade was launched with 12 National Assemblies; now we have more than 12 times that number. Twelve National Assemblies! And most of the world was not yet part of the Baha’i community; we had not touched most of the world when the Guardian launched us on this grand enterprise. And we had read in Baha'i News and from other sources about the Baha‘is coming in in different parts of the world and we were all excited—there were fewer pictures in those days than we have now—and we believed what we were reading but we didn't have a live experience with it. And when we went to London, those of us who went there had absolute proof that there was a world community—that we were in fact part of a Baha'i world. So it affirmed to the Baha’is themselves that their Faith is indeed a world religion.

Now, the forthcoming second World Congress, in my opinion, should affirm to the public what it has increasingly been acknowledging through various publications, and that is that the Baha’i Faith is indeed a world religion. And if you've been reading any materials of late you will see that it is now variously referred to asa principal world religion or a major world religion.

PROCLAMATION AN IMPORTANT FEATURE

One thing I'd like to mention before concluding is the proclamation aspect. The Secretariat's letter of 3 April says “an important feature of the activities of the Holy Year will be the widest possible proclamation of the Name of Baha‘u'llah.” This is very important. “As an assistance to your efforts, a statement on Baha‘u'llah has been prepared at the request of the House of Justice by the Office of Public Information.” That statement is the fruit of a lot of work and research, and went through many permutations before it came to this.

Now this is important, friends: after a hundred years, in a period of such tremendous advancement in communications technology, at least the people of tahe world should know the name of Baha‘u'llah—at least that if nothing else. It’s very important. And so the House of Justice has called for the blazoning of His Name throughout the globe. Of course, we will have to be dignified; we shouldn't go out of our minds and do things that are inappropriate and so on, but we must do it!

Commenting on such corollary activities, you see, as

proclamation, the Universal House of Justice, in its Ridvan 1991 message wrote about the wide distribution of this statement which, it said, will serve both asa source of study and inspiration for the Baha‘is themselves and as an informative publication for presentation to the public. And they say that “in these and other ways the Community of the Greatest Name will endeavor to blazon the Name of Bahd’u'llah across the globe to make it a known eminence in the consciousness of peoples everywhere.”

Youremember that statement from Baha‘u‘llah in which He says to somebody, “Mention My name amongst the great and have no fear.” I'm sure you remember in The Hidden Words where it says, “Make mention of Me on My earth that in My heaven I may remember thee. Thus shall thine eyes and Mine be solaced.” So, mention His Name; it's important. In context. And properly. But mention it.

Now, friends, the events projected for the Holy Year together will be conducive to a mighty thrust in the teaching work. There is no doubt about that.

Two OTHER EXPECTATIONS

I want to mention briefly two other expectations for this year. The anticipated publication of the Mother Book—the Book of Laws—the Kitdb-i-Aqdas; that's on the horizon. Last Friday—let's see if am still thinking in the same terms—yes, it was last Friday, the members of the Universal House of Justice received from the committee reviewing the translation the complete thing for review by the House of Justice. So I can imagine when I return that there'll be a lot of work over there. The other thing, the other expectation is, of course, the initiation of the worldwide application of the Law of Huqtiqu'Ilah, the Right of God. That will be part of the Holy Year experience.

So let me come quickly to my conclusion. I can say this: that so much could be crowded into so short a period underscores the potencies of our time in history. ‘Abdu’lBaha exclaims in one of His Tablets: “How vast is the Revelation of Baha‘u'llah. How great the magnitude of His blessings showered upon humanity in this Day. And yet how poor, how inadequate our conception of their significance and glory. This generation stands too close to so colossal a Revelation to appreciate in their full measure the infinite possibilities of His Faith, the uprecedented character of His Cause, and the mysterious dispensations of His providence.” That's *Abdu'l-Baha.

So these are the days, my friends, that the Prophets and the Holy Ones have wished to experience. We here, for reasons that are locked in the treasury of God's knowledge, are alive and are here. Finally, in the words of

Abdu’l-Baha: “Know thou the value of these days.”

From National Archives Committee

Local archives get help in develo

The National Baha*i Archives Committee is involved ina project to help some of the local Spiritual Assemblies in the United States develop their local archives.

The goal of the project is to educate communities about the value of records generated by their local assemblies, as well as the importance of personal papers, photographs and rare books that the local archives will preserve.

These records not only represent the heritage and collective memory of the American Baha’i community, but are also of value to the proper functioning of local Spiritual Assemblies.

The Archives Committee provides guidance to local communities in several important areas:

encouraging Assemblies to make resources available—human, physical and financial—to properly protect and use the archives; and

providing information about how to acquire the

archival materials necessary to properly organize and maintain an archives.

The Archives Committee is encouraged by reports from several older communities with important collections of Assembly records that have already adopted active archives programs. The 1990 annual report of the Philadelphia Archives Committee, for example, reflected months of careful planning and conscientious work.

The Philadelphia Archives Committee has begun in

pment ventorying its CTT ; r collections, de- om : termining what materials should be permanently included in the archives. The committee has joined local archival organizations to get professional training and have prepared

commemorations of As- Pictured are some of the participants sembly and jnan Archives Workshop held in Phil

community anniversaries, as well as local archives exhibits.

It also takes a community photograph each Ridvan, and keeps the community informed of new archival acquisitions and services.

Although specific communities have been chosen for the current project, the National Baha’i Archives Committee is eager to provide help to any community wishing to start a local archives program. For more information, call Roger Dahl at the National Bahai Archives, 708869-9039.

adelphia, Pennsylvania.

Mutk 148 B.E. / Fesruary 7, 1992 [Page 13]THe AMERICAN BAHAY 13°

Eighteen people embraced the Faith this year during the Adam Benke Project II teaching campaign in Bulgaria. The campaign, in which 11 Baha’is from around the world took part, was an initiative of the European Baha‘i Youth Council.

Canada’s Ministry for Education has accepted the use of The Hidden Words and The Seven Valleys and The Four Valleys as poetry for meeting governmental requirements. Students at the Maxwell International Baha‘i School memorize an extract from The Hidden Words each week as part of their English literature program. They have weekly worksheets on which to record their understanding of the metaphorsand symbolism used, and they sometimes compare the metaphor or symbol with a previously studied extract. Teachers have found that the exercise stimulates students’ use of their reflective and contemplative powers.

The National Spiritual Assembly of Germany reports that Baha'is in Krakow, Poland, met on the anniversary of the Birth of the Bab and formed their local Spiritual Assembly, the fourth in that country.

A traveling teacher who recently spent time in Enga Province, Papua New Guinea, has reported that one community has built a home to serve both asa meeting place for Baha’is and as a guest house for traveling teachers. The community has also pledged to build a Baha'i Center in which pre-school classes can be held. Two other villages held tree-planting ceremonies to mark future Baha'i Centers in the name of Knight of Bahda‘u'llah for the Admiralty Islands, Violet Hoehnke. At one community school, a teacher and headmaster have become Baha‘is, and other teachers are showing an interest in the

Faith.

Seventy-seven Baha'is from a dozen cities and villages attended a National Teaching Conference held October 25-27 in Plovdiv, Bulgaria. Twelve believers came from Germany, the World Center, and the U.S. for the occasion. Also attending were Counselor Foad Kazemzadeh and Christopher Sprung, secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly of Germany. Consultation, according to participants, was focused on future plans for teaching in Bulgaria, while “a public talk by John Huddleston, as well as the conference itself, attracted the attention of the media.”

Baha'is in Hong Kong were inspired by the positive response shown by people who visited the Baha'i exhibit at the International Book Fair held recently in that city. Many Baha‘ books in English and Chinese were displayed and sold, while other items such as T-shirts and children’s paper watches were made especially for the event. More than 10,000 pamphlets and other literature were handed out to visitors, many of whom were invited to public meetings at the Bahd‘i hall.

The State Minister for Religious Affairs, Professor M.A. Mannan, attended a recent conference organized by the Spiritual Assembly of Dhaka, Bangladesh. The conference theme was “Equality of Men and Women—A Prerequisite for World Peace.”

As part of its campaign to create innovative teaching methods, and to bring the Faith into areas of interest of non-Baha’is, the Spiritual Assembly of Las Condes, Chile, in Santiago’s metropolitan area, has been sponsoring a series of panel discussions at the National Baha'i Center, each led by a Baha'i and a non-Baha‘i speaker whoare well-versed in the subject matter. Topics have included “Where Is the World Going?—A Perspective from University Youth,” “Nature and the Environment,” “Are We Prepared for Peace,” and “Human Relations at-Work.” Attendance has averaged about 75 per meeting.

About 400 Bahi’is gathered September 15 in Bussum, the Netherlands, to celebrate World Peace Day. The mayor of Bussum accepted an invitation to offi

nstitute embraced the Faith, five local Assemblies were in Zaire traveled recently to the Shaba area strengthened, and one new Assembly was to teach the Faith and to deepen local Baha'i formed.

communities. During the trip 142 people

cially open the meeting which included three lectures on the concept of world peace and a musical/meditative program.

Also in September, 50 Baha‘is met in Birmingham, England, for the second annual conference of the Association for Baha’i Studies (English-speaking Europe).

The theme of the weekend conference was “New Human Values fora New World Order.” The main speakers were John Twitchin of the BBC, and Baha'i author and broadcaster Nathan Rutstein from the US.

The postal service in India has depieted the Baha'i House of Worship in New Delhi on a postage stamp to mark the Diamond Jubilee of that city. The Tem

ple is included on one of iat stamps that show other well-known buildings in India’s capital city.

Giosescope Americas

National Assembly represented at Miami conference to map strategy for UNCED event in Rio de Janeiro

Kit Bigelow and Peter Adriance of the National Spiritual Assembly's office in Washington, D.C., represented the National Assembly at the “Globescope Americas” conference October 29-November 3 in Miami, Florida. They were joined by Craig Loehle, representing the Baha’i International Community.

The event was sponsored by the Global Tomorrow Coalition, of which the National Spiritual Assembly is a member. Its purpose was to examine ideas and prospects for a more sustainable future and to provide input to the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), planned for June 1992 in Rio de Janeiro. More than 300 non-governmental organizations (NGOs) took part in the conference.

AN ATTRACTIVE display was provided by the Baha’i International Community. Representing Baha’i development projects in the Western Hemisphere, it occupied a highly visible, central space and wasa dissemination point for much Baha'i literature and the catalyst for many teaching opportunities. Additional literature was distributed at a “Global Swap Shop” open one evening to the general public.

Ms. Bigelow spoke to an audience of about 200 the first morning as part of a panel on Religion and Ecol ogy. Her focus was on the spiritual principles needed for a sustainable future. Many people commented on the freshness of her presentation and its positive contribution to the discussion.

All three Baha’i representatives took part in a Religious Caucus on Saturday. Upon request, Mr. Adriance opened the meeting with a Baha'i prayer. He also served as the moderator for the morning session’s panel discussion.

The U.S. Citizens Network on the UN Conference on Environment and Development, of which Mr. Adriance is secretary, held two meetings in which he took part.

Ms. Bigelow gave the benediction at an International Banquet by reading the prayer “Blessed is the Spot.” U.S. Senator Albért Gore, who sat with her at the head table, acknowledged it in his opening comments. Later that evening Ms. Bigelow presented the findings of the focus group on Development and Human Values in which she and Mr. Adriance had taken part each day.

The “Globescope Americas” meeting was one of many programs in which the National Spiritual Assembly and the Baha'i International Community are taking active roles as concerned organizations and agencies around the world prepare for the UNCED events in 1992.

Youth take ride in a canoe

On September 7, Baha'i youth from the Madison and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, areas took part in a five-hour canoe ride down the Wisconsin River.

The day-long outing, designed to foster fellowship and unity among the state's younger Baha‘is, was sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Stoughton.

Mutk 148 B.E. / Fesruary 7, 1992 [Page 14]14 THe American BaHA'i

News IN BRIEF

National Education Committee ‘field tests’ new core curriculum for grades K-6; White Plains hosts race unity forum

Seventeen women and men from across the country gathered in September at the Louis G. Gregory Baha’i Institute in Hemingway, South Carolina, for a teachertraining session to “field test” the new core curriculum for grades K-6 developed for the National Spiritual Assembly by the National Baha'i Education Committee.

A task force of the Education Committee designed the four-part training modules so that participants would experience a wide range of teaching techniques to address a diversity of learning styles. Among the methods used were music, movement, drama, nature study, large and small groupings, consultation and meditation.

Based on the trial run, plans were made to make core curriculum teacher-training modules 1-4 available nationwide this winter.

.

The second annual “Building Bridges Between Blacks and Whites” race unity forum was held November 9 in White Plains, New York, with the five members of the National Spiritual Assembly’s Race Unity Committee among the more than 200 people taking part.

Joy Cross, a member of that committee, was the keynote speaker, pointing out that he heartfelt responsibility of every

..to create a world at one.”

The forum was sponsored by the Baha'is of White Plains in cooperation with the Baha'is of Greenburgh and Scarsdale. Others attending included the executive di

rector of the White Plains Human Rights Commission, the president of the local Rotary Club, a member of the White Plains African-American Men, and a former city councilman.

During the event, copies of the National Spiritual Assembly's statement, “The Vision of Race Unity,” were given to each of those in the audience.

“Our greatest minds have sought only material solutions (to racial disunity),” said panelist Sylvester Scott, a Baha‘i from California. “If we acknowledge that it is a spiritual problem, then we can understand the need for religion, because spiritual values originate with religion.”

After the event, about 80 of those in the audience—including a number of non-Baha‘is— attended a reception and buffet at the home of local Baha’is.

The forum received frontpage coverage in The Reporter Dispatch, | Westchester County's largest daily newspaper.

.

Dr. Rick Johnson, director of the Louhelen Baha'i School, has appointed Kim Meilicke Douglas and Duane L. Herrmann

members ‘Lights of Di members of the

of service to the Faith. Mrs. Olivia (Lee) Blackw

Lena Amato, 72, New Orlean:

Mary Furtet, a Baha'i from Dallas, Texas, was recently profiled in the Dallas Times-Herald for her nearly 40 years of volunteer service to such groups as the Lighthouse for the Blind, Doctors Nursing Center, and as a tutor for the Dallas chapter of Literacy Volunteers of America.

Joun Danesu, a 23-year-old Baha’i who formerly lived in Oklahoma and is now in his final year at Otago University Medical School in New Zealand, has been awarded a Rhodes Scholarship to attend Oxford University. Mr. Danesh, who has recorded the highest grades in the history of Otago University, has earned more than 25 academic scholarships and prizes. He has won national debating titles in New Zealand, Australia and the U.S., hosts a weekly national television program, has been a member of several peace delegations sponsored by the government of New Zealand and International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War, has lectured on peace in such countries as Japan, France and Sweden, and in 1986 was named New Zealand’s Young Writer of the Year, having authored works in such journals as Religious Studies, The New Zealand International Review, World Order magazine, and The Journal of Bahd't Studies.

Racuet Suaw, a 17-year-old Baha'i who isa senior at Washington High School in Pensacola, Florida, recently took part in “America’s Young Woman of the Year” competition. She received the academic achievement award and was chosen to represent her school in the county competition.

Ricnarp V. Baptiste, a Baha'i who attends Quinsigamond Community College in Worcester, Massachusetts, has been named a U.S. National Collegiate Award winner in human services by the U.S. Achievement Academy and will be listed in the Academy's yearbook, published nationally.

Kiyomi MercapantE, a 14-year-old Baha'i from Richmond, Virginia, has been chosen to be a member of the Student Company of the Richmond Ballet, the state ballet of Virginia. Ms. Mercadante is an honor roll student at her high school.

Tina Marte WiLL ETT, a Baha’i who attends Everett (Washington) Community College, has been named Outstanding Student 1990-91 in Human Services. While working toward an associate degree in arts and sciences, she contributed more than 300 hours of community service as a Deaconess Children’s Home volunteer. She is now studying to earn a degree in nursing.

Krisrin Leypon, a 15-year-old Baha'i who is a freshman at George School, a private Quaker boarding school in Newtown, Pennsylvania, has won the school’s $20,000 Centennial Scholarship for 1991. The scholarship, which will pay $5,000 a year toward Krispin’s tuition for the next four years, is awarded to a student who demonstrates academic achievement, motivation, integrity, leadership, writing skills and community involvement.

inction’ at a special celebration held sapisater: 14 in Kenner, Louisiana. The honorees, ranging in age from 70 to 97 years, include some of the earliest Faith in the U.S. and the New Orleans area. Mrs. Florence Hanson of Long

pi, the eldest of the honorees at 97, was recognized for more than 70 years

the Spiritual Assembly of New Orleans. Others designated ‘Lights of na, Grace Bulboaca, 84, Shreveport; Thelma Grandison, 83, Gretna; Dr. Kaykhosrow

as a steering committee to administer the Robert Hayden Poetry Fellowship.

The Fellowship was established at Louhelen as a memorial to the late Robert Hayden to promote writing and the development of poetry in the Baha'i community. Mr. Hayden, an award-winning author of several books of poetry, was the first black to be named poet-in-residence at the U.S. Library of Congress.

Five promising poets have so far received Louhelen Fellowships, which are open to all poets in the early stages of their careers who have little or no published works to their credit.

The qualifications include evidence of potential and seriousness of intent. Submissions for this year’s Fellowship must be postmarked by the first Day of Ridvan, April 21, and must include three copies each of five poems, typed and dated but unsigned. An unsigned letter of application must accompany the poems. A cover letter can identify the applicant and his/ her poetry submissions.

The address for more detailed information or to send one’s application is Hayden Poetry Fellowship, Louhelen Baha’i School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48432.

Both steering committee members, Mrs. Douglas and Mr. Herrmann, are recipients of the Hayden Fellowship who served as poets-in-residence at Louhelen in 1988 and 1989, respectively.

.

Dr. Robert Stockman, director of the Research Department of the U.S. Baha’i National Center, joined 30 Baha'i scholars from across the United Kingdom for a three-day meeting of the Religious Studies Seminar of the Association for Baha’i Studies for English Speaking Europe at the end of November.

Dr. Stockman presented a paper titled “American Baha’i Identity, 1894-1921,”

Nicholas Amato, 72, New Orlean: 71, Slidell; and Freda Roff, 71, Baton Rouge; and from Mi

jan; Ralph Campbell, 81, Jackson; Allen Irving, 78, Honey Springs; Ethelyn Campbell, 77, Jackson; Frank Johnson, 75, Madison; Herman Fowlkes, 72, Jackson; Virginia Johnson, 72, Madison; Marie Bruce, 71, Jackson; and Fred Baker Sr., 70, Diamond Head.

|, 81, was honored for 50 years as a member

‘inction’ were: from

iidred (Millie) Fradella, i, Evelyn Hardin, 87,

describing the development of American Baha’i understanding of the nature of the Faith, and categorizing the types of people who became Baha'is in that period according to their religious and social interests.

Macau :

Continued from page 3

These presentations were followed by acall for settlers for China, with 64 individuals spontaneously arising to serve throughout that land before the close of the Holy Year.

Many of the local Baha’ is and pioneers joined conference participants for a Chinese banquet at which a number of prominent individuals and leading officials of Macau were guests of the Baha'is. Musical presentations, a Chinese poetry reading, and a talk on Chinese principles and the Bahai teachings interspersed the courses.

A teaching campaign entitled “The South China Teaching Campaign” was announced, as a joint effort of the National Spiritual Assemblies of Macau, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Malaysia and Singapore, with the goal of bringing ever larger numbers of active Chinese supporters into the Faith of Baha'u'llah in Macau and Hong Kong during the Holy Year.

Following the conference some of the participants stayed on to record a video tape (in English) dealing with specific topics and concepts that frequently arise in Chinese teaching, to help Baha’i communities around the world improve the effectiveness of their presentations.

slit |

Mutk 148 B.E. / Fesruary 7, 1992 [Page 15]15

THE AMERICAN BAHA'I

THE Six YEAR PLAN: A look at teaching, proclamnallals

Continued from page 1

more grounded we are in Baha’i education, the more universal participation there will be, and so on.

At the outset of the Plan the National Spiritual Assembly set the expectation that our progress would be reviewed periodically and our priorities modified as necessary.

In the U.S. there has been important activity in every one of the major objectives. Since the midway point of the Plan, however, the National Spiritual Assembly has directed that special emphasis be placed on vastly increased enrollments, the maturation of the institutions, Fund development, and Baha’*i education. This has been done, in large part due to close analysis of community activity and a shift of emphasis from locally set goals to goals established for a great number of communities by the National Assembly, first in the Fund and later in teaching. With these points in mind, the most practical way to report the vast array of activities and intiatives undertaken in our community is to examine them as they apply to each of the goals of the Plan.

1. Carrying the healing Message of Baha’u’llah to the generality of mankind.

This goal embraces many approaches. There are those that involve teaching, pioneering, proclamation, public information and external affairs; and those that result from our involvement in the life of society and our pursuit of projects for social and economic development, among others.

TEACHING

The increasing maturity of our institutions that set the tone for the Six Year Plan has been the key to a dramatic change in our approach to teaching in the short period of time since its inception:

© The opening of the Plan saw more than 130 teaching projects of varying durations, a significant number of which were focused on minority populations. The “Trail of Light” campaign in California was held in preparation for the International Peace Conference in San Francisco. The “Spirit of the Roses” project was undertaken in response to the gift of 189 roses from the Iranian friends,

Baha'is pan the Dallas, Texas, area assemble at the city’s Martin Luther King Jr. Center after taking part in a Race Unity Day

march.

each rose symbolizing one of the believers martyred since the 1979 revolution. The project emphasized reflection on the spirit of sacrifice in teaching and support of the funds,

° The second year of the Plan coincided with the 75th anniversary of *Abdu’l-Baha’s visitto America. Unity Picnics were held in honor of this historic occasion at the Wilhelm property in Teaneck, New Jersey, and in hundreds of communities across the country. Teaching and proclamation of the Faith were essential aspects of these events.

On the national level, the Master's visit was remembered at the annual convention of the NAACP. A number

of other commemorations were held including one at the Baha’i House of Worship in Wilmette, over whose cornerstone ceremony *‘Abdu’l-Baha had presided while in this country.

© Inspired by the example set by the Center of the Covenant, teaching a ies of all kinds were accelerated. Presentations of “The Promise of World Peace” became more frequent, and other proclamations and teaching events were held to focus on specific issues such as race unity and the equality of the sexes. The number of personal and community firesides increased by more than 50 percent that year, and the number of traveling teachers rose from 100 to 700.

Meanwhile, efforts were made to promote greater

unity of thought on teaching. Collaboration among national committees, such as the National Teaching Committee, the National Chinese Teaching Committee, the American Indian Teaching Committee and the National Youth Committee was increased. Other committees, including the National Race Unity Committee and the National Committee on Women, shifted their focus to more direct teaching efforts. A National Conference on Growth was held, which, together with its spinoff conferences in several areas of the country, pushed forward a program of nationwide consultation on teaching. Publications such as “The Word of God,” a deepening booklet on teaching based on the Sacred Writings, and “Building Unity of Thought on Teaching” also fostered a process whereby individuals, local communities and national institutions worked ever more closely together toward the goal of large-scale expansion.

In 1988 four areas of the country were chosen as prospective sites for large-scale growth: Atlanta, Georgia; Chicago, Illinois; San Jose, California; and Massachusetts. The National Assembly designated them as “target areas” for growth, urged them to redouble their efforts to increase the number of new believers, and challenged the rest of the country to emulate their example. The National Assembly, the National Teaching Committee and the Board of Counselors committed their time and resources to the task as well, in the hope that these areas would blaze a trail for the rest of the country to follow.

It soon became apparent that whatever

successes took place in the four targeted areas were due in large part to focusing efforts on specific groups of people, especially minorities. Moreover, they showed the value of both persistent effort and follow-up work . Communities elsewhere, not wanting to be left out of the excitement, quickly caught on to these concepts, and before long began to see victories of their own, in some cases vying with the leading centers of teaching in numbers of new be

Dr. Peter Kahn, a member of the Universal House of Justice, addresses one of 18 ‘Vision to Victory’ conferences called by the National Spiritual Assembly during the Six Year Plan, this one in New York City.

lievers.

To further stimulate activity, the National Assembly

sponsored a series of 18 “Vision to Victory” conferences across the country. Their purpose, in addition to in: ing the believers to rise to the challenge of teaching “on a scale and of a quality, variety and intensity outstripping all current efforts,” was to deepen the friends on the significance of the Arc project, declared by the House of Justice to be “intimately related” to the teaching work. The conferences also ushered in a two-year period of “intensive sacrifice and action in service to the Cause” called for by the National Assembly, from Ridvan 1988 until Ridvan 1990. The “Vision to Victory” conferences were the latest in the succession of efforts at ongoing and sustained consultation between the local and national institutions of the Faith that had occurred since the town meetings at the beginning of the Plan.

During the Plan literally hundreds of teaching projects and institutes have been initiated, each benefiting to some extent from the experiences of the others. Of special value have been the services of the Continental Counselors, Auxiliary Board members and their assistants who have provided support and inspiration to the friends in virtually every case.

Increasing attention has been paid to minority teaching during the Plan. Of special importance have been institutes focusing on African-Americans, American Indians, Chinese, Hispanics and Southeast Asians. The following are some areas that have been particularly successful:

American Indians: Minneapolis, Minnesota; Bemidji,

Minnesota; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; the Nez Perce Indian Reservation in Idaho; the Umatilla Reservation in Oregon; and the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota.

© Chinese: communities in California, Massachusetts and Texas have been quite active; there has also been much activity on university campuses, especially in the “Big Ten” schools of the Midwest. A National Chinese Teaching Committee was appointed during the Plan to address this high-priority goal.

Hispanics: Avondale, Arizona; Woodburn, Oregon;

Glendale, California; Providence, Rhode Island; and Anthony, New Mexico.

Southeast Asians: Sacramento, San Jose and Stockton, California; and Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

ENCOURAGING DEVELOPMENTS

One of the most important trends in the evolution of our teaching over the past several years has been a growing understanding of the nature and purpose of teaching institutes. Today there are an estimated 1,000 institutes in the country, each focusing on a specific population with whom the teachings of Baha’u'llah are shared.

Not all institutes target minorities; some center on persons of similar social or academic interests, or bend their energies toward reaching individuals devoted to specific areas of concern, such as racism or the equality of men and women. They are an effective means of

Continued on page 16

Mutk 148 B.E. / Fesruary 7, 1992 [Page 16]16 THe American BaHA'i

LALA IA ETT I IN a I Te SN TTT TE aT CS TE RRO TT NTT LT ee

Continued from page 15

carrying the Message of Baha'u'llah to humankind because they systematically focus the spiritual energies and material resources of a core group of believers and allow for the “unity in diversity of actions” called for by the Universal House of Justice.

Many believers, of all ages and backgrounds, have taken part in or started institutes that are suited to their own capacities and inclinations. Meanwhile, communities of widely divergent resources have adopted plans that cater to their own regional needs. The institutes that already exist are reaching literally every stratum of society, and are opening up tremendous opportunities for the involvement of the Faith in progressive activities with non-Baha’i groups.

The key to successful institutes is sustained activity over long periods. There are several areas where institutes have been going strong for a couple of years, such as the Okeechobee region of Florida, the Bay area of San Francisco, and the Woodburn, Oregon, area.

These long-term institutes, committed to the goal of entry by troops, cooperate closely with the Auxiliary Boards, the local institutions and the National Spiritual Assembly. They take advantage of the energy and enthusiasm of the youth and children and train new believers to become dedicated and deepened teachers of the Faith.

The ongoing teaching institutes represent a new development in the Faith in this country. Although we have yet to experience sustained, large-scale growth here—in fact, the rate of enrollments has barely increased since the beginning of the Plan—the seeds are being assiduously planted now, and the implications for future growth are encouraging.

Following are some other noteworthy developments:

¢ Full-time teaching teams have arisen in four states to carry forward the teaching work. These teams are either self-supporting or are funded in large measure by a sponsoring institution in the area they serve. Some concentrate on a single area; others are itinerant. The number of full-time traveling teachers has also increased.

¢ Especially remarkable has been the steadily growing involvement of youth and children, evolving from the Campaign of Unified Action to the Youth Year of Service and then the Baha'i Youth Service Corps. There is almost no ongoing, teaching project in the country that is not benefiting from their energy and wonderful spirit of service to Baha'u'llah. Most of the full-time teachers are youth; other young people are expanding their high school and college activities, focusing their efforts on winning the goals of the Plan.

There has been a noticeable increase in the participation of American Indian believers in the teaching work.

ARTS AID IN TEACHING

© The greater consciousness of the arts as a medium for teaching and proclamation is apparent. Among the best examples of this are the showing of the play “Tahirih,” produced by the Louhelen Baha'i School, in Flint, Detroit and Indianapolis; the growing number of youth workshops that incorporate music, dance and drama to teach the Faith to their peers; the rise in international traveling teachers who use music and art in their presentation of the Faith; and the growing number of Baha’i conferences on the arts, which include discussions on teaching through art and music.

The Native American Baha’i Institute, the Louis G.

Gregory Institute, the permanent Baha’i schools and the regional schools have all contributed greatly to training teachers of Baha’i classes and deepening new believers, by providing high quality curricula to the friends.

° There has been more attention given to the life and station of Baha’u'llah in teaching, as opposed to an earlier emphasis on teaching by the principles of the Faith alone. The National Assembly has repeatedly stressed the need to connect hearts with Baha‘u'Ilah, an assertion that has been validated by experiences in all the areas where growth is taking place; and this new emphasis was given further impetus by the recent publication of the statement on Baha’u'llah at the request of the House

Baha’ientertainer Red Granmenennes a group of young children—at the celebratios 75th anniversary of ‘Abdu’I-Baha’s histori

of Justice.

Whatever progress has been made in the our teaching work is due in no small measure to a few precious souls for whose unforgettable contributions we must remain eternally grateful:

The Hand of the Cause of God Zikrullah Khadem,

who passed away in November 1986, in the first year of the Plan. We owe a great deal of our strength as a community to his devoted efforts during the two and onehalf decades he lived in this country, during which he set a high standard for service and wholehearted devotion to the Cause. His memory serves as an inspiration to all those who knew him and to lovers of Baha'u'llah everywhere.

¢ The Hand of the Cause of God William Sears, one of the last “remnants” of the Guardian and a “standardbearer” of the Cause of God, who has set an inspiring example of heroic sacrifice in Plan after Plan. Most recently he arose, in spite of grave physical infirmity, to visit five of the most promising areas of teaching in the country, inspiring the entire community with his vision, his love, and his words of encouragement.

¢ The members of the Continental Board of Counselors and the Auxiliary Board, who have given freely of their time and energy to fulfill their arduous duties on behalf

of the Faith. They have participated fully and frequently in local and national conferences, schools and institutes; have met with the friends in virtually every community in the country; and have lent their invaluable support to the administrative institutions in every phase of their activities.

¢ The late H. Borrah Kavelin, who spent the evening of his life, after his retirement from membership on the Universal House of Justice, in constant service to his Lord. Returning to live in the the U.S. in the summer of 1988, he planned a six-city tour of the country to promote the teaching work. After a successful visit to Boston he proceeded to Chattanooga, Tennessee, where, becoming seriously ill, he video taped a presentation from his hospital bed for the local believers. That tape was also shown at the Northwest Conference in Seattle a short time later. Mr. Kavelin returned to his residence in New Mexico, where he passed away on December 18.

© David Hofman, retired member of the House of Justice, who is presently in the midst of a third tour of North America. In 1989 Mr. Hofman visited the four “target areas” and took part in many of the “Vision to Victory” conferences. A knowledgeable and powerful speaker, Mr. Hofman has granted many interviews for newspapers, radio and television. Since last December he has been busily involved in teaching the Faith in this part of the world and in helping the friends to become better teachers.

And Counselor Magdalene Carney, a member of the

International Teaching Center, whose prayers, words and deeds were a source of courage and inspiration to us all, and who devoted the last days of her earthly life to us in a tour that took her through every area of the country. Especially memorable was her participation at the Louis G. Gregory Institute's annual Peace Fest in 1991, where

ome of his favorite eons Teaneck, New Jersey, of the it to North America in 1912.

she presented the Louis G. Gregory Award for humanitarian service less than a month before her death in Haifa.

THe MotHer TemPLe oF THE West

About one million people have visited the Baha'i House of Worship in Wilmette since the beginning of the Plan. A significant number of them were from foreign countries. Those visiting the holiest House of Worship in the world had access to:

An improved visitors’ center and bookstore, which

offers literature in many languages and on a variety of subjects;

regular firesides in English and Spanish;

special talks and presentations on race unity, peace,

equality of the sexes, and a number of other topics;

video presentations on the House of Worship in India

and on “The Promise of World Peace”;

forums for the discussion of current social and religious issues; and

a variety of interfaith activities.

Other recent highlights include:

The visits, on separate occasions, of the Hmong

Buddhist High Priest for Thailand, the wife of the President of Guyana, the former President of Costa Rica, and the Indian Ambassador to the United States;

an increasing number of tours given to

groups of businessmen, scholars, students, government officials, religious organizations and special interest associations. This has occurred for the most part as a result of the efforts of the Baha’i House of Worship staff.

It would be difficult to overstate the role that the Mashriqu’l-Adhkar plays in promoting the Cause of God. It is a mighty instrument for teaching, an increasingly prominent symbol of goodwill, and the source of inestimable spiritual blessings for the Baha’i community and the entire nation.

PIONEERING AND TEACHING OVERSEAS

The U.S. Baha’i community has been responsible for important contributions to the international teaching work ever since the days of *Abdu’l-Baha. During the Six Year Plan hundreds of Baha'is have left the country for pioneering service or as traveling teachers, bringing the confirmations of Baha’u’Ilah to their destinations and to their home community.

° As of this writing, 241 pioneers have left in fulfillment of 66 of the 77 goals assigned to us by the Universal House of Justice at the beginning of the Plan.

¢ Another 416 have left for non-goal areas, or to fulfill the goals of other National Assemblies.

Inall, there are about 1,500 American pioneers in the

field.

¢ Just over two years ago the House of Justice assigned anew category of goal to our community, asking that we provide 708 months of “short-term” pioneer service in various countries. Of these, 346 have been fulfilled.

-More than 1,500 people have taken some 2,000 teaching trips to more than 100 countries. Some special examples are:

© The public proclamation of the Faith throughout the USSR by various teaching teams and individuals and through Baha’i participation in professional seminars. The support of the American believers has accelerated the formation of Baha*i Groups and local Assemblies throughout that area.

© The consolidation and teaching efforts in the Falklands and in the Turks and Caicos Islands, goals assigned to us by the House of Justice. Great forward strides have been made in each of these remote areas.

The heavy involvement of American Baha’is in the

teaching in Guyana, which has been tremendously successful. The number of believers in that country has risen significantly.

Mutk 148 B.E. / Fesruary 7, 1992 [Page 17]THe AMERICAN BaHAT 17

There is still a need for more international traveling teachers to specific areas to meet our goals for the Plan.

The most extraordinary development in many years has been the opening of great regions of the world to the Faith, namely the USSR, Eastern Europe, China and Mongolia. American believers joined Baha‘is from around the world who rushed wholeheartedly into this new arena of service.

In response to these extraordinary opportunities, our community adopted a special Two Year Plan which beganat Ridvan 1990. Since then 74 long-term pioneers have left to fulfill 33 of the 53 goals of that Plan. Also, 594 traveling teachers have made their way to these areas to proclaim and teach the Cause of God.

The Hand of God has brought about revolutionary changes on the world scene and in the fortunes of the Faith. Countries that had virtually no believers only two years ago now have their own National Spiritual Assemblies, and many more will soon have them. Time will tell exactly how significant this progress has been, as we move closer to the emergence of the Lesser Peace.

PRrocLamaTION

In proclaiming the Faith to the public we have engaged in a seemingly infinite variety of activities on the local, national and global levels. The full spectrum of possibilities has been covered and the Faith brought to the attention of unprecedented numbers of people through:

the hundreds of Race Unity celebrations held annually in more and more

communities;

the growing influence and popularity

of Baha’i programming at WLGI;

our sponsorship of race unity efforts,

such as the annual observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday;

our support of the International Year

of Peace from the grassroots to the United Nations;

our dissemination of 180,000 copies

of “The Promise of World Peace” and of 150,000 copies of “The Vision of Race Unity” to leaders of government, leaders of thought, and the general public;

© an increase in the number of articles about the Faith appearing in local and national media, from an average of 2,000 to 3,800 per year. The content of the articles has also changed a great deal, from a focus early in the Plan on the ns in Iran to an emphasis on

“Ilah and the teachings of the Faith. The efforts of public information representatives and other believers have contributed greatly to this change; and

an endless series of events from meetings with mayors to presentations to Con

Pictured with their teachers are some of the young Baha’is who have embraced

gress.

The gains we have seen as a result of proclamation of the Faith make for fascinating study, related as they are to the tragic persecution of the Baha'is in Iran and resulting, among other things, in a vastly increased involvement of the Faith in the life of society.

In Part Two of this series we will elaborate on this issue, with special emphasis on external affairs.

Summary

Inits letter to the American Baha’ icommunity for the Feast of Sharaf (December 31, 1991), the National Spiritual Assembly called our attention to the perplexingly low levels of enrollments we have seen during the Six Year Plan in spite of the new heights scaled in proclamation and teaching activities.

Stating its absolute conviction that the Faith of Baha’u'llah is the only remedy for the steady descent of the world into chaos, the National Assembly pointed out that the community “is, as yet, too small to exert a significant influence in the reshap

ing of society and the salvation of its members.”

The National Assembly expressed its confidence that “the continuing rise in teaching activities is a prelude to great victories,” and, echoing the words of the House of Justice, appealed toevery Ameri ti from the greater Chicago area take part in a Walk for Race Unity held last June in Wilmette, Illinois.

can Baha’i, “at this critical moment in the destiny of the Cause and of humankind, to make a supreme effort to gather the as yet unharvested victories in the fast-fleeting days remaining in the Six Year Plan.” Next issue: Carrying the Message of Baha'u'llah through external affairs.

=a aga)

“The shining spark of truth cometh forth only after the clash of differing opinions. ”—* Abdu’lBaha

The American Baha'i welcomes letters to the editor on any topic of general interest. The purpose of the “letters” column is to allowa free and open exchange of ideas and opinions, never to denigrate another's views or to attack anyone personally. Opinions ex— pressed in these columns are those of the writers, and are not neces— sarily those of the National Spir— itual 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 Baha'i, Bahd't National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

Georgia, area.

God rewards us ‘four-fold’

To the Editor:

I just finished reading the Canadian compilation on Huqtiqu'llah, and was filled with more love and appreciation for Baha'u'llah than ever.

When I was 12, a Christian evangelist challenged us to give to God till it hurt, saying God would reward us four-fold for the giving.

I placed my 50 cents allowance in the offering plate without question, and waited. Within two weeks a distant aunt whom I'd never met sent me, from New York, a $2 bill. This proved to me, for all time, that God does reward one four-fold.

From that time on I’ve always doggedly given 10 percent to God, first. Ihave never wanted for anything, financially or spiritually, for I know that handling money carefully and well is at the heart of spirituality.

In the compilation on Huqtqu'llh, Baha'u'llah says, many times over and in many ways, “The advantages gained from this deed revert to the persons themselves. However, the acceptance of the offerings dependeth on the spirit of joy, fellowship and contentment that the righteous souls who fulfill this injunction will manifest.” (p. 2)

The primary motive for giving can't be the expectation of increasing one’s income; it must forever and always be a sincere love for and gratitude to God for His blessings, and a commitment to be a good steward of any money we might receive.

Jan M. Goucher Spencer, Oklahoma

On backbiting, forgiveness To the Editor:

I am writing to thank Jay Strain of Albuquerque, New Mexico, for his constructive insights (November) into my letter in the September issue of The American Baha'i about supermarket tabloids.

While it was never my intention to find fault with anyone, the letter, I fear, may

have been construed by some as serving that purpose. Therefore, if Ihave offended anyone for writing it, I would like to apologize for doing so.

Having said this, I still believe that gossip and backbiting are insidious evils that must be overcome. At the same time, I must learn to concentrate on the virtues and blessings of others—wherever and whenever I encounter them.

‘Abdu’ l-Baha spoke well when He said, “If a man has 10 good qualities and one bad one, look at the 10 and forget the one; and if a man has 10 bad qualities and one good one, look at the one and forget the 1m

Michael G. Lechner Dallas, Oregon

Use our Baha'i resources To the Editor:

Tama Baha’j who is experiencing financial troubles. The Writings teach us that such problems aren't permanent, and that it is important to rely on God for our needs to be met (The Hidden Words, Persian, No. 51).

I decided that since I could not give money, I would perform services at various Baha'i events. I served food, helped clean up, taught children’s classes, babysat, etc. I think I benefited more from giving service in some form than I did when I was financially secure.

Also, I know that if I need help or guidance, I know I can depend on the local Assembly to help. Recently, for example, I was given a scholarship to enable me to attend a Baha'i winter school

What Iam saying is that the resources of the Baha'i community are out there—we simply have to take advantage of them. I have found most Baha'is to be understanding and helpful once they are told of and understand my situation.

Ihave also learned what is important in my life and what is not.

Ann Danehower Norman, Oklahoma

Mutk 148 B.E. / Fesruary 7, 1992 [Page 18]18 THe American BaHA'i

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Mutk 148 B.E. / Fesruary 7, 1992 [Page 20]20

THE AMERICAN BAHA'i

Pictured are some of the 29 housing units built by the Branford Interfaith Housing Corporation of Branford, Connecticut, of which the Baha'i community of Branford is a member. The non-profit venture, funded by the State Department of Housing,

was undertaken as a means of providing affordable housing for low-i. families. Kenneth Gelband, a Bah nearby Woodbridge, served as architect for the project.

come ‘ifrom

number(s) listed above.

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address labels do not match, We have listed above the full names of al family memshould appear on the national

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of The American Baha'i. 1 wish to receive my owncopy. Ihave listed my name, LD, number and address above.

| | |

|

BAHA'i NATIONAL CENTER

112 Linden Avenue Wilmette, IL 60091

Mutk 148 B.E./Fesruary 7, 1992

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

FEBRUARY

6-9: Second Global Structures Convocation: Environment and Development, Marriott Hotel, Washington, D.C. Co-sponsored by the National Spiritual Assembly. A representative of the Baha'i International Community, Office of the Environment, will take part in a workshop entitled “Earth Charter: Establishing the Values and Principles for International Laws and Global Community.” Bahd‘is are welcome to attend the convocation; those who wish to do so are asked to notify the National Spiritual Assembly office at 1606 New Hampshire Avenue N.W., Washington, DC 20009 (phone 202-265-8830). For information about the conference, contact Second Global Structures Convocation: Environment and Development, Washington, DC 20036 (phone 202-8339585, fax 202-785-3942).

14-16: North Dakota Baha'i School, Mayville State University campus. Theme: “The Significance of Baha’u'llah’s Revelation.” Registrar: Marian Kadrie,

Fargo, ND 58103; phone 701-235-3725.

14-17: “Singles: A Winter Retreat in the Redwoods,” Bosch Baha'i School, Santa Cruz, California. Theme: “With Inward and Outward Eye.” Topics and texts: Participants can choose from several topics and study groups including The Advent of Divine Justice; Gleanings; “Individual Rights and Freedoms in the World Order of Baha‘u'llah” (letter from the Universal House of Justice to the is of the U.S., December 28, 1988); Baha‘i Marriage and Family Life, a ation. For information, phone 408-423-3387.

15-16: Louisiana Baha'i School, Baton Rouge. Theme: “Teaching the Faith to Christians.” Registrar: Monya Sturdivant, Gretna, LA 70056 (504-393-6675).

15-17: Washington (West) Baha'i School, Brighton Creek Conference Grounds, McKenna. Theme: “Preparation for the Holy Year.” Registrar: Harry Taylor,

Arlington, WA 98223. Or phone Sandy Brizuela,

206-588-8419. APRIL

4-5: Third Conference of the Association for Baha'i Studies Mid-Atlantic Region, Western Maryland College, Westminster. Theme: “Global Renaissance: The Significance of Baha'u'llah’s Revelation.” For information, write to the Association for Baha'i Studies Mid-Atlantic Regional Committee,

Levittown, PA 19057, or phone 215-949-1157 or 215-949-0699.

16-22: Youth Symposium ‘92, Landegg Academy, Switzerland. Theme: “Re generating the Arts.” For a program brochure, write to Landegg Academy, CHSwitzerland, or phone René Steiner, 41-71-91 91 31, or fax 4171-91 43 01. MAY

22-25: A Spiritual Renewal Retreat for Couples, Bosch Baha'i School, Santa Cruz, California. Theme: “Love, Marriage, Parenting.” This weekend is for couples committed to working on their relationship. It is not designed to meet the needs of those ina Year of Patience. This is a session for adults, but infants inarms can be accommodated. Group I, Newer Married. Group leaders Terry and Carrie Kneisler will lead the newer married or younger couples as they build strong relationships in the marriage and with their children. Group II, Seasoned Couples. Group leaders Jack and Farzaneh Guillebeaux will guide seasoned couples to focus on obstacles, issues and joys of relating asa couple and as parents to older children. For information, phone 408-423-3387.

SPRING

Pioneering Institute, Baha'i National Center, Evanston, Illinois. For information, phone the Office of Pioneering, 708-869-9039.

Vice president of World Federalists participates in UN Day activities during visit to Nebraska

Dr. Ronald J. Glossop, coordinator of Peace Studies at Southern Illinois University and a vice president of the World Federalists, took part in several functions related to United Nations Day during a five-day visit in October to southeastern Nebraska.

Dr. Glossop’s visit was sponsored by the Bahai community of Lincoln, the Nebraska Humanities Council, the Nebraska Division of the UNA-USA, the Crete Chapter of Nebraskans for Peace, and the Nebraska Internacia-lingva Asocio, an Esperantist group.

The invitation was suggested by a local Baha'i who had read Dr. Glossop’s book, Confronting War, and was impressed by his presentation of steps that must be taken to bring about world peace.

The Baha'i community of Lincoln agreed that the UN Day events in Nebraska presented an excellent opportunity to promote the views on peace of this likeminded leader of thought.

Several events were held in honor of his visit, at which Dr. Glossop spoke about world citizenship, global education, and the need for an international auxiliary language.

The Beatrice Sun based a front-page feature article on Dr. Glossop’s visit, entitled “World Wide Leadership Should Guide New World Order.”

Baha'i from U.S. takes part in Moscow conference for young political leaders

Robert Ahdieh, a 20-year-old Baha‘i from Pennsylvania, took part December 10-12 ina “Conference of Young Political Leaders” in Moscow.

Mr. Ahdieh, who is on a year’s leave of absence from Princeton University's Woodrow Wilson School of International Affairs, has been studying at the Moscow Institute of International Relations and working with the Soviet Peace Committee.

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