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MasA’t 8.£. 151/
Decemser 12, 1994
Vo.iume 25, Numeser 18
ni
alr tah
Meeting in Canada reviewed
The National Spiritual Assembly met October 21-23 in Wilmette, IIlinois. An important topic of consultation was its meeting with Counselors and the National Spiritual As— sembly of Canada held two weeks earlier in Vancouver, British Columbia, a meeting that was focused ona study of the Tablets of the Divine Plan and various aspects of teaching.
The U.S. National Assembly is determined to expand cooperative ven— tures with Canada, especially in the areas of administrative development, teaching Native Americans and promoting the work of the Association for Baha'i Studies.
The secretary for External Affairs reported on Senate ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.
NaTION
A REPO
its)
The ratification process, begun 28 years ago, was brought to a successful conclusion with the National Spiritual Assembly coordinating the efforts of other non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that were working for its ratification.
The National Assembly continued its consultation on the guidance provided by the Universal House of Jus— tice in its letter of May 19, 1994, with particular emphasis on teaching and decentralization. The following are among actions already taken in response to the letter:
- dispatched the letter immediately
to the Counselors, arranged to meet with them to discuss it, and held a
Carol Butler, a public information representative from Ft. Wayne, Indiana, shows a
newspaper clipping to Trish Swanson (far left), director of the Office of Public Information, and local PI representatives meeting in Louisville, Kentucky.
It’s about media relationships, PI reps told in series of briefings
By Tom Mennillo
Keep your eye on the prize, the Office of Public Information is urging local PI representatives in a series of workshops being held around the country.
“The main responsibility of a PI representative is to work with the news media,” director Trish Swanson told a recent gathering in Louisville, Kentucky, of 17 Baha'is interested in doing just that.
It means building relationships, she said. The goal is to create an awareness of the Faith and enhance its credibility with the media and the public.
The Office of Public Information was reopened in mid-July after a move from Wilmette, Illinois, to New York City. One of Ms. Swanson’s tasks will be to build relationships with media on a national level.
The other major emphasis of the office will be to further develop the PI network, and Ms. Swanson is touring the country to find out what materials and training local representatives need to effectively represent their Baha’i community.
At the meeting in Louisville were Baha'is who had traveled there from
See REPS page II
retreat with the Counselors for that purpose;
¢ delayed printing The American Bahd’i to assure immediate distribution to the community;
- initiated a series of meetings with
staff at the Baha'i National Center which began with a talk by Counselor Stephen Birkland, included a survey of staff for suggestions of possible actions to be taken based on their study of the letter, and led to the establishment of an internal task force to coordinate a long-term study plan;
- continued discussions on decentralization, teaching, the Funds, and
communications; and
- decided to hold the 1995 National
See NATIONAL page 15
You are invited to National Convention
The National Spiritual Assembly invites you to attend the 1995 Bah ational Convention, to be held next April 27-30 in the Chicago area.
Plans are being made to accommodate a larger number of the friends—about 1,800—than has been the case in recent years. This will afford an opportunity for you to join delegates, members of the National Spiritual Assembly, and your fellow Baha'is as we enter the final and most critical year of the Three Year Plan.
Information on Convention registration and hotel accommodations will be included in the next issue of The American Baha'i.
Baha’i principles provide Cairo conference model
By Tom Mennillo
For a week in September, much of the world's attention was focused on the United Nations Conference on Population and Development in Cairo, Egypt.
Politicians clashed, religious leaders blustered, and the media recorded it all.
But the swirl of
Community’s Office of the Environment in New York, traveled to Cairo at the invitation of the World Conference on Religion and Peace.
The Baha’is were asked to submit a paper and to take part in workshops on an interfaith approach to population and development.
The paper, written by Brad Pokorny of
controversy had an In workshops and con- the Baha’{ Internaunintended effect. It tional Communit
provided a perfect sen on the Office of Public
backdrop for the a large arena, Information, was
contrasting example —_—_ Baha’is fostered an printed in a publicaof Baha’f principles atmosphere of harmony tion of the World
in action. Conference on
In workshops and and reverence for con- Religion and Peace conversations and on __ Sultation on vital issues titled Religion, the floor of a large facing humankind. Population and
arena, Baha’is
fostered an atmo sphere of harmony and reverence for consultation on vital issues facing humankind.
“7 thought so many times of ‘Abdu’l-Baha’s statement that it is from the clash of differing opinions that the spark of truth emerges,” participant Elizabeth Bowen told an audience at the Baha'i World Center the day after the conference ended, “and again and again one saw those sparks at that gathering.”
Dr. Bowen, a Baha'i from Atlanta, Georgia, is a family physician and professor of medicine. She also is a director of Mottahedeh Development Services Inc., an agency of the National Spiritual Agency.
She and Lawrence Arturo, director of the Baha’ International
Development: Multi Religious Contributions that was circulated widely at the conference and will be published as a book in 1995.
The publication noted the need for various religions to present their viewpoints in the context of offering guidance to governments.
Population policies and programs are only one element in an over-all development strategy, it said. True development must take into account the intrinsic good of every person and community, and it must consider the social, cultural and spiritual dimensions of human beings.
The resulting policies must be based on the inherent dignity and equality of all people and promote
See PERSPECTIVES page II
[Page 2]
Vision in Action
NYC Baha'is talk unity at Lollapalooza Fest
When the giant alternative music tour known as the Lollapalooza Festival hit the New York City area in August, the Baha'is were there to promote race unity.
The event on Randall's Island drew more than 25,000 fans, hundreds of whom stopped at the “Racism Just Undo It” table.
At the table, they could pick up RJUI and Baha’t race unity leaflets, buy buttons, shirts and stickers, and have imped with multicolored “ m Free Zone” stamps.
In addition, a European television crew filmed the booth, and an article in Young American Press followed a few weeks later.
Baha‘f involvement was the idea of Shoghi Fret, a New York City Baha’i youth.
“Tt was an idea I had been pushing for—the idea of Baha’i youth involve
THe AmeriCAN BAHA'l 2
ment in Lollapalooza and other music events—since I declared last year,” he said.
The idea came to the attention of United Endeavors, the parent organization of Racism Just Undo It, at an RJUI Fact Finding Forum.
United Endeavors’ Fred Jackson and RJUI’s Michael Shetler worked with Shoghi to make his dream a reality.
Asa result, RJUI sponsored the table, complete with volunteers and a special version of the “Racism Free Zone” logo made into a banner by Baha’i artist River Brandon.
The table was so well-received that organizers of the festival were open to having it present at later stops on the tour. UE made the arrangements, and the table was successfully staffed in Oregon.
Pictured is the Baha'i table at New York City’s Lollapalooza Festival.
Major three-phase expansion is under way at Bosch Baha'i School
By Randy Dobbs —
A major exp n is under way at the Bosch Bahi hool in Santa Cruz, California. Phase One of the planned three-phase construction of the new Amelia Collins classroom building has been completed, according to school Director Mark Bedford.
The first phase of the project, ata cost of $120,000, provides a winterized shell for the new building which include three new classrooms adjacent to Martha Root Hall.
Construction of the new classrooms began August 1, using funds
contributed by individual Baha’is
and Baha'i communities over the last
few years.
The Bosch Baha'i School, situated on 67 acres of wooded land nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains off California's central coast, observed its 20th anniversary at that location last July.
Originally located in Geyserville, on property once owned and donated to the Cause by John and Louise Bosch, the Bosch School was moved to Santa Cruz when the state of California purchased the Geyser
‘Women in Baha'i Perspective’ topic
of scholarly January conference
to be held at Baha'i National Center
A scholarly conference on the topic “Women in Baha'i Perspective” will be held January 27-29 at the Baha'i National Center in Wilmette, Illinois.
The event, whose purpose is to) foster substantive scholarly sion, based on the Baha'i Wri on the role of women in the
Baha'i community and the world, is being planned by a task force appointed by the National Spiritual Assembly.
Owing to limitations of space and
human resources, attendance must be limited to a maximum of 100. Those who would like to attend should contact Lynnea Prochnow for registration information at the following addre:
Research Office, Baha'i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. Phone 708-733-3548; fax 708- 733-3563; Internet, research@usbnc.org.
Registration is now open, and seats will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
The American Bah
offices. ISSN Numb: Editor: Tom Mennill
published 19 times a year by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United States, 1233 Central 60201. Second class postage paid at Evanston, IL, and additional mailing 1062-1113. Executive editor: Jack Bowers. Associate . The American Baha'i welcomes news, letters and other items of interest from individuals and the various institutions of the Baha'i Faith. Articles should be clear and concise; color or black-and-white glossy photographs should be included whenever possible. Please address all materials and correspondence to The Editor, The American Bahd’i, Wilmette, IL 60091. Postmaster: Send address changes to Management Information Sys~ tems, Baha’{ National Center, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201. Copyright © 1994 by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United States. World rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A.
Evanston, IL
ville property as part of a freeway development plan.
“The Bosch School has the bounty and challenge of training new teachers in the Cause of Baha'u'lldh,” says Mr. Bedford, adding that the challenge sometimes includes hold— ing impromptu classes in the administrator's home when present facilities become overcrowded.
The new construction could cost as much as $250,000, although some of the estimated cost will be offset by volunteer labor and donated building materials. Those who would like
to donate labor, materials or funds may contact the Bosch School at 408423-3387.
In addition to the new Collins building, the school boasts a successful bookstore-coffee house, a yogurt shop adjacent to the main lodge, administrative offices and library, a secluded area for meditation known as “prayer island,” nature trails among the giant redwoods, and a waterfall (in winter) on the San Vicente Creek which runs through the northwest section of the campus.
Vandalism at Las Vegas Center rallies support, leads to teaching
Baha’is in Las Vegas, Nevada, see the recent vandalism of their Center as two sides of a coin.
On one side is the act itself. Someone threw a brick through the Center’s glass front. Later, an anonymous letter was left in the mailbox promising “death to all you Baha’is.”
The flip side of the coin manifested itself quickly once friends of the Baha’is became aware of the desecration.
Rabbi Sanford Akselrad, chairman of the National Conference Interfaith Committee of Las Vegas, wrote a letter to the editor of the Las Vegas Review Journal that was published September 28.
“1am writing for two reasons,” Rabbi Akselrad wrote. “The first is to express the support of myself and others who are a part of the National Conference for the Baha’i community. Theirs is a religion that has been persecuted for too long and yet, ironically, it is one of the most peace-loving of all faiths. The second is to remind our community that we must all stand united against hate crimes.”
Rabbi Akselrad concluded:
- “Las
Vegas is a wonderful community. It is a shame that there are those who seek to divide our city through hatred and scare tactics rather than [bring us together] through mutual respect and understanding.”
Las Vegas Baha’is believe the vandal is someone who was disturbed by their ambitious and vigorous teaching campaign known as the Southern Nevada Baha’i Vision Project.
Under the theme “Baha’i Solutions,” the project has become quite visible with bus-stop signs, newspaper ads and news releases. Television spots and highway billboards are planned for the near future.
“We are busy teaching up a storm—a storm we expect to release a downpour of declarations, a storm that has already sprinkled us with successes,” says Marion WestHoffman, publicist for the project.
“The persecutions we have been told to expect won’t come until we really get out and teach,” she says. “And persecutions will lead to recognition and success.”
Two sides of a single coin.
MasA’iL 8.€. 151 / DecemBer 12, 1994 3
Three Year Pian :
4 )
TOTAL ENROLLMENTS OF NEW BELIEVERS
October .......... 184
Year to date.. 1268
THE FUND
As of October 31, 1994
Four Major Funps
HBB 01 for 151 BE.
Contributions to Date
Nationa. FuND $6,304,651
INTERNATIONAL FUND
$117,176
$118,643
Po
Arc Projects FUND
$922,831
bial
CONTINENTAL FUND
HS From Navi Bahai Fund
Earmarked Dollars
HBR Total contributions
Woodburn Print Salt Lake
County
Four Corners
Baha'f School
Aneth Bosch Baha'f
chool is ~
Las Vegas \ Los aves ] Corona a Sa
Del Mar
Renton. DenveR Portland SS me Ay
/
San Diego NABI
Holbrook Jicarilla Reservation:
action in the years to come.
j Phoenix eG |
Las Cruces
El Paso
influence of the Faith, to reach a new level of acti
New Levels of Activity
Rosebud i r Billings Reservation Grand Rapids Snohomish County SW ea Standing Rock | Wichita Seattle Reservation Topeka
| y / \ ay Bedford /\ ae
Dallas \ Tulsa
“Now is the time,” writes the Universal House of Justice, “for the friends to sieze new opportunities to extend the range and n in expanding the community and fortifying its foundations.”
The National Teaching Office has been receiving numerous reports from all over the nation about multiple declarations, new levels of inter-community activities, and a heightened sense of awareness of the urgency of the moment. The above communities and schools are amongst the many that have reached a new level of unity, activity or commitment.
Most encouraging is the repeated occurances of individuals, groups, and communities pledging to keep up this new level of
“You may rest assured that your particularly blessed community will not be denied a triumphant expansion if its members remain constant and confident in their teaching ac!
ities.
“Step forward then to meet the requirements of the hour with undiminished hope and confidence.”
Minneapolis Iowa City
Rolla
Dasani S i Cee Ss — Cary
Baton Rouge Birmingham
Heartland Baha'f School
Lafayette
Indianapolis,
, Portland
‘@— Green Acre \. Bahd'f School
Providence and E, Providence
Loui
ie a
— e—— Conway
Louis Gregory Institute
Dekalb County N Atlanta
Georgia Summer School
\ °S—~ Magdalene Carney Baha Institute
St Petersburg Key Largo
Baha’i teachers on fire in forest camp
A forest was ablaze. So was the team of five Baha’is who spent 22 days working and teaching the Faith in an Oregon fire camp.
The call went out September 1 from Enterprise, Oregon, for volunteers to support the fire fighters at Twin Lakes.
Several Baha’is were quickly contacted, and in less than 24 hours. Jennifer Gill, Patti Goebel, Diana Tufts, Ruhi Tufts and Shoghi Tufts found themselves in the smoke-filled air of a mountain top.
There, they helped provide meals and amenities for the men and women of the fire crews.
They also exuded a spirit that from the start attracted notice and, inevitably, questions.
In fact, the first person they encountered, a human resources specialist who had been dispatched from the Mount Hood National Forest to join the management team, later declared her belief in Baha'u'llah.
This new believer also has asked
the Baha’is to introduce the Faith to the congregation of her former church near Portland.
Among the other new friends with whom they shared the message of Baha’u’llah in camp were the members of Teen Challenge, a group of Christian youth from California who toiled in the kitchen.
The group held a Sunday service at which the Baha‘is were invited to pray, speak and sing.
After the service, several youth asked for the words that were sung and were given copies of The Hidden Words.
Each evening brought additional teaching opportunities. Around 7 o'clock, the fire fighters would march into camp single-file singing, as they lined up for dinner in their smoke-filled clothes and sootsmeared faces.
Then the crews, of diverse origin including American Indians and others from around the country, would gather around heaters— known as salamanders—for conver sation and music.
Luckily, one of the Baha’is had brought a guitar. This became the basis for much sharing of music and fellowship as the instrument was passed around. Considerable laughter and spirit filled the evenings.
As the fire was contained and crews were demobilized, the Baha’is helped to close down the camp. Then it was on to Duck Creek for two days at another camp.
Duck Creek provided new opportunities to share the Writings and music in all-night fests. Literature was given to many new friends before they departed.
At signout, the Baha’is were given high marks by the camp boss, who commented, “Your crew was different than the normal camp crew. The job didn’t seem challenging enough for you.”
Maybe the job wasn’t, but the challenge of spreading the Faith amid a spreading fire was, and the Baha’is were up to that, too.
[Page 4]
Marion Jack: sterling example for pioneers
(This is the second and concluding part of our look at the exemplary life of Marion Jack, an “immortal heroine” of the Cause of Baha’u‘lléh.—Ed.)
°
When Marion Jack arrived in Bulgaria, she took a room in a hotel and began to make friends and to teach the Faith. In addition to physical weakness and a limited budget, Marion was unable to speak Bulgarian. She had never learned the language as she did not expect to stay long in the country.
She never had a home or even an apartment of her own in Bulgaria, but would invite seekers to her small hotel room where she would give “talks” from Paris Talks by having her words translated into French or German by one guest, then translated again into Bulgarian.
In November 1931, when Marion had been in Sofia for about eight months, the Guardian wrote to her:
“Your splendid services, rendered with such faith, such humility, such perseverance and devotion, have at last been crowned with success. You have achieved a task that will ever live in, nay adorn and enrich, the annals of God’s immortal Faith. What is now necessary is to consolidate the work already achieved. ...”
Despite certain restrictions which the authorities placed in 1933 on the teaching activities of the Baha’is, the teaching work went ahead and earned continual praise and encouragement from Shoghi Effendi.
By July 1934, the first local Spiritual Assembly of Sofia was elected from a community of more than 30 believers. Although the Guardian indicated to her that she could move on to another post, Marion Jack chose to stay on in Bulgaria.
As the decade of the ‘30s drew to a close, Bulgaria became the center of the European spy system, and the outbreak of open conflict in Europe became inevitable. Although the Guardian first advised Marion to return to Canada, when it became clear that it would not be possible for another Baha’i to replace her, she was then advised to stay on.
She was, by this time, 73 years old. There were now approximately 150 Baha'is and friends of the Faith in Sofia, meetings were held three times a week and Feasts were held regularly.
During World War II correspondence with Bulgaria was limited. In March 1941, when Nazi
troops secretly entered the country, Bulgaria signed an agreement with Germany and thus entered the conflict on the side of the Axis powers.
Marion Jack had a British passport and was in constant danger of inprisonment until the end of the war. When Sofia was bombed in January 1944, the house where Marion lived was destroyed as was the house where all the Bulgarian editions of Baha'u'llah and the New Era were stored. Marion was evacuated from the city and all her luggage was stolen. She commented at that time, “It seems wonderful what one can do without.”
‘Your splendid services, rendered with such faith, such humility, such perseverance and devotion, have at last been crowned with success. You have achieved a task that will ever live in, nay adorn and enrich, the annals of God’s immortal Faith.’—Shoghi Effendi
In September 1944, Soviet troops entered Bulgaria and the country switched to the Soviet side in the war. By the end of 1947 a communist regime was firmly establised in Bulgaria.
As soon as she was allowed, Marion returned to Sofia to rebuild the Bahd’f community and to continue the teaching work. She suffered from cold, inadequate food and housing and continual health problems, but she persevered cheerfully.
It was no longer possible to hold meetings, a few Baha’is had been killed in the bombings and many had emigrated. But Marion adapted to every change with good spirits.
Her room was little more than a cubbyhole with one end stacked high with firewood for the stove. One-third of her small income was spent for heat. Although a number of friends sent help, parcels for her often failed to arrive and the exchange rate fluctuated so dramatically that she often lost funds intended for her support. In 1947 she wrote to her niece:
“Thad a letter this week from Haifa, and as I am told to persevere and keep on working I can turn a deaf ear to certain friends, who think I should go back where I came from just because I have turned 80; I tell them that I never suffer in anticipation of what may come. It is the most foolish of all worries. ...”
In 1948 Shoghi Effendi wrote to the National Spiritual Assembly of the U.S. through his secre
THe AMERICAN BAHA'l 4
tary:
“He (Shoghi Effendi) feels that the spirit of Marion Jack, her evident desire to stay with the community she loves so dearly and has fostered through thick and thin, reflects glory not only on the North American community but on the entire Faith.
“She should be left free to remain in Bulgaria, and your Assembly should see to it that she receives a sufficient income to end her life in peace and with no more hardships to be endured. She is a heroic soul, the finest example of the pioneer spirit which we have anywhere in the world, and the Guardian feels deeply indebted to her, and loves her very dearly.”
Despite her confident outlook, she did long to see more of her family and to deepen her understanding of the Faith. By 1951, walking had become difficult for her and she was no longer able to get out about the city as she loved to do. She was by then unable to get even to the post office without great pain. In 1953 she wrote:
“...Thanks be to God I am so much better and the M.D.'s are quite amazed, but they need not be as the Baha’i family all over have been praying for my health. ...”
During the last months of her life she was bedridden and suffered greatly, but her worry was for those who cared for her. A friend who visited her in her last illness wrote:
“ 1 feel she is better in her self, but that at 87, she will not have the strength to get up again. She does not say very much at least when I go to see her—just smiles and likes to hold my hand. ...She does sleep a lot and when awake seems to be already in another world. ...”
Marion Jack died on March 27, 1954, at age 87, and was buried in the British Military Cemetery in Sofia.
“Young or old could never find a more inspiring pioneer in whose footsteps to walk than this wonderful soul. ...He thinks that every Baha’f and most particularly those who have left their homes and gone to serve in foreign fields, should know of, and turn their gaze to Marion Jack.” (From a letter written on behalf of the Guardian to the European Teaching Committee in May 1954, published in Baha’i News, August 1954)
Recruiting teachers for overseas jobs has begun
Service Corps volunteers, youth pioneers are needed
Veteran Baha'i Youth Service Corps volunteers, youth pioneers, and Army of Light participants are urgently needed to help raise up and prepare increasing numbers of youth pioneers and traveling teachers.
If you have served in one of the ways mentioned above during the last 10 years, would you be willing to help:
_— tell youth about service opportunities at a booth during the “Army of Light Boot Camp: National Conference for Preparing the Soldiers” in December?
_ draft articles on a variety of topics related to youth service for The Banner, The American Baha'i, or Be Magazine?
— ¢0-facilitate a training institute for Bahé’i Youth Service Corps volunteers in your area or at one of the Baha‘i schools?
__ Serve as a regional contact person for youth interested in service in the U.S. or abroad?
— speak about the urgency for and rewards of youth service, teaching or pioneering?
_— help the Office of Pioneering and the National Teaching Office in other ways to raise and and prepare youth for service?
_ think of other ways to raise up or prepare youth for service? Some ideas I have are
Please check off one or more items above and mail or fax this form to the Office of Pioneering, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. Fax 708-733-3509 or phone 708-733-3511.
Following is a schedule of recruitment fairs:
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS SERVICE (ISS)
February 2-5, 1995—Boston, MA
February 16-19, 1995—New Orleans, LA
June 23-25, 1995—Philadelphia, PA
Registration deadline for the February fairs is December 15.
Contact ISS, Educational Staffing Program, P.O. Box 5910, Princeton, NJ 08543 (phone 609-452-0990; fax 609-452-2690).
°
OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY
February 3-5, 1995—Columbus, OH
Deadline to sign up is January 13.
Contact OSU, Student Academic and Career Center, 110 Alps Hall, 1945 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43210-1172 (phone 614-292-2741; fax 614-292-4547).
.
UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN IOWA
February 10-12, 1995—Cedar Falls,
IA
Contact Overseas Placement Service for Educators, University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, IA 50614-0390 (phone 319-273-2311; fax 319-273-6998).
.
U.S. Department of Defense Dependent Schools (DoDDS)
For an application, contact Department of Defense, Office of Dependent Schools, Hoffman Building |, 2461 Eisenhower Ave., Alexandria, VA 22331 (phone 703-696-3065).
Other recruiters for Primary and Secondary Teachers/ Administrators:
ANTILLES CONSOLIDATED SCHOOL SYSTEM (ACSS), an independent recruitment serve maintained by U.S. government schools at military facilities in Puerto Rico.
Contact ACSSE, U.S. Naval Station Roosevelt Road, PSC 1008, Box 3200, FPO AA 34051 (phone 809-86534051).
See TEACHERS page 14
MasA'1 8.€. 151 / DecemsBer 12, 1994 ERS
Community sees giving double, spirits soar
Feast attendance was low in one Midwestern community, and so were contributions to the Funds. Many things were going on, but in general the spirit of this large, veteran community seemed to be at a low ebb.
The Assembly took these conditions under serious consideration. Their recently elected treasurer had been struck by the ideas discussed at an Area Development Seminar he had attended some months before, where the discussion had centered on ways to plan for the involvement of the friends in every aspect of the community’s life.
These ideas combined with others brought forward in consultation
Arc giving rises; National Fund deficit grows
Figures listed in the accompanying graphic disclose a remarkable in— crease in giving to the Arc Projects Fund: more than double the amount given last year at the same time.
This growth has propelled a 20 percent increase in total contributions for the first half of the year. The American community has thus contributed nearly $5.5 million to the Arc Projects since the start of the Three Year Plan.
Unrestricted contributions to the Baha'i National Fund, however, are up only 6 percent, reflecting notable declines during the summer months.
This seasonal drop took place at the same time that critical capital improvements were being implemented at the House of Worship and Green Acre. The result has been a major cash shortage at the national level.
These trends have prompted a careful review of the national budget, with the prospect that a number of programs and planned expenses would be curtailed or cut.
“This is a classic good news/bad news situation,” said one Treasury staff person. “The friends have made a real effort to respond to the call of the Universal House of Justice for an increase in the flow of funds to the Arc Projects.
“This has come, however, somewhat at the expense of the National Fund, to a degree that has placed significant pressure on the plans and programs of the National Spiritual Assembly.
“The plain fact is that all the work needs to be done, and the resources are being stretched very thin right now.
“We suspect that an analysis of giving we're now doing will indicate that there has been some increase in the number of believers who are giving, but that much of the increase has come from a core group of dear friends who are making really heroic efforts. There are many friends who do not appear to be giving, and large
produced a plan of action: to promote spiritual meetings in every neighborhood; increase the flow of news and information to the friends; and work hard to dispel feelings of distance or alienation.
Assembly members and assistants to the Auxiliary Board actively sought out members of the community, building relationships, having a good time, sharing news, asking (and answering!) questions about local and national programs, how the money is spent—all kinds of things.
By the midpoint of the year, re— markable changes had taken place. Nearly a dozen neighborhood meetings are held at least every two weeks, in addition to the city-wide
Feast; there is one of these gatherings within a five-minute drive of every Baha‘i in town.
The friends come together, pray together, and generally enjoy each other’s company. Believers who haven’t come around in years are now regulars, and EVERYONE is happy about that. Even better, there has been a spate of new believers, a dozen within the last month!
And contributions? A good month used to be $3,000; last month's total was $6,000!
Not big money; simply many modest offerings by people who hadn’t given in some time.
There was a good percentage of giving to the National Fund and the
CONTRIBUTIONS 1993-94 1994-95 %change International Baha’i Fund $411,830 $235,401 -43 National Baha’i Fund 4,283,886 4,553,681 6 Arc Projects Fund 1,082,416 2,286,156 111 Continental Baha’i Fund 155,030 101,125 -35 Other Earmarked 203,051 210,136 3 Total $6,136,213 $7,386,499 20
$8,000,000 —
$7,000,000 — Arc
Fund $6,000,000 — $5,000,000 —
National $4,000,000 — rene $3,000,000 — $2,000,000 — $1,000,000 —
Other
Continental
International
1993-94 1994-95
gifts are scarce so far this year.”
Steps to think about include:
- efforts by local Assemblies and
individuals to bring back to active involvement friends who have distanced themselves from their communities;
- ensuring that local Assembly
goals for the National Fund are met;
- promoting the Automatic Contri
bution System at the local level; and
redoubling teaching efforts to
ensure a steady stream of new believers.
“This is a spiritual process,” the staffer indicated. “Information can help the friends make their decisions about which fund to support, but the love of Baha’u’ll4h will help them find lasting solutions.”
local Fund, too, which hadn’t been the case just a short time ago.
When the friends learned, however, that the U.S. community is the largest supporter of the work in Haifa, that there were also important programs under way nationally, and that money given locally or nationally could be used faster for the work of the Faith instead of being stalled in the international banking system, the flow of funds began to change.
Involvement has been the key, and an emphasis on spiritual sus— tenance. Trust the institutions. Bring the Creative Word close to the friends, create ways for the believers to come together, and watch what happens!
Huqiaq bounty
How is Huqtiqu’llah to be paid? Here's one believer's answer: “I felt so good about that payment, the very first I made, I don’t know what got into me, but I kissed the envelope before I put it in the mailbox. When I got home, my husband told me we had just received a tax re-— fund, and you know, it was fora little more than the payment I had just sent!”
Bank congratulates National Assembly on Faith centenary
Members of the National Spiritual Assembly and National Center staff were invited recently to a luncheon in honor of the Faith’s centenary in the West, hosted by the chairman and senior managers of the Northern Trust Company of Chicago.
David W. Fox, chairman of the bank’s board of directors, noted with evident pride that for more than 70 of those 100 years, the National Assembly has done business with the Northern Trust.
“There have been good times and hard times,” Mr. Fox said, “but #* > relationship between us has _ through it all.”
Mr. Fox presented Robert Hen— derson, secretary-general of the National Spiritual Assembly, a beautiful crystal sculpture emblazoned with a nine-pointed star and the Baha’ ringstone symbol, in commemoration of the event.
Dr. Henderson, after explaining to bank officials the meaning of the ringstone symbol, went on to say that relationships such as that with the bank, which dates to the opening, of an account by the Hand of the Cause of God Corinne True in the name of the Baha'i Temple Unity, are expressions of the highest principles of integrity, mutual trust and service, all key aspects of the Baha'i teachings.
[Page 6]
Baha'i Faith in America Vol. 1
A candid, detailed study of the
introduction of the Baha’f Faith
to the Occident in 1892 and its
development during its first
eight ye: Appropriate for non-Baha’ts s Baha’fs, the book helps to provide sound knowledge of
ars in North Ameri
well
religious history, which Shoghi Effendi says is of great help in teaching the Cause to intelligent people.
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ae Fs eld sash BAS
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An introduction to the life and work of Bahé’u’ll4h, conveying His vision of the
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eon the
offering a perspec feeling of confidence with which Baha’fs view the future of our planet and our race Published in preparation for the centenary anniversary of Baha’u'llah’s passing and the inauguration of His Covenant, the book will aid Baha’fs in their efforts to achieve the widest possible proclamation of the Name of Baha'u'llah. HARDCOVER ONLY— $2.25#
From Strength to Strength
A concise account of the worldwide spread of the Baha’f Faith and the development of its Adm Order. The Univers: ice has encouraged
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The Power of Unity
A work created to help American Baha’{s free themselves from racial prejudice and to fulfill the purpose of the Baha’i Faith by achieving unity in diversity. The book calls for the protec
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he story of the first Baha’f student at the University of at Berkeley (1920)
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Centers of Baha’i Learning
This booklet sets out the objeciples underlying Baha’ schools and teaching institutes. Shoghi Effendi has stressed that Baha’ schools are
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Call to Remembrance
A compilation of extracts primarily from Baha’u'll4h’s writings telling the story of major events in His life and ministry, from nsion and the
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[Page 7]
Distribution Se
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[Page 8]
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 per— sonal or commercial ads can be ac— cepted for publication. The opportunities referred to have not been approved by the National Spiritual Assembly; the friends should exer— cise their own judgment and care in responding to them.
SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES
THE BOSCH Baha’ School has an immediate opening for a Youth Service Corps worker. We will accept applicants who wish to serve from three months up to a year or more for their room and board. Applicants must have their own medical coverage, if possible. Work at the school includes maintenance, food services, work in the Bookshop/Café or training to conduct chil dren's classes. Please contact the school by phone (408-423-3387) or fax (408-4237564).
‘THE LOUHELEN Bookstore Cafe and Twin Oaks Dining Room are new additions to the operation of the Louhelen Baha'i School. Both offer improved service to those attending sessions at the school as well as to members of the general public. More volunteer staff are
led for these two operations. In par ticular, mature youth or adults are sought who are pursuing training or have career experience in the restaurant or hotel industries or other food service/ hosy fel seated professions. The possibility of internships exists for students who would wish to explore such options. While no cash stipends are available, full room and board are offered for those ac ted to serve. Length of service is flexible, with service opportunities ranging from a few weeks to a year or more. For an application, contact Mrs. Penny Schmicker, volunteer services manager, Louhelen Baha'i School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423. Phone 810-6535033; fax 810-653-8850; INTERNET
NEERING (OVERSEAS)
EMPLOYMENT opportunities overseas. AFRICA: Tanzania—English/ESL teacher. AMERICAS: Belize—assistant manager/operations manager-comptroller at resort lodge; tutor. Chile—elementary school teachers. Haiti—project manager needed by CARE for Improved Stoves and Fuel Substitution project. Venezuela—computer industry. ASTA: Japan—teachers. EUROPE: Czech Republic—teachers. MULTI-REGIONAL: nurses, family therapists, psychologists, social workers needed for U.S. Air Force Domestic Violence Prevention programs; associate Peace Corps directors for small enterprise development in Poland, Vlad— ivostok and Ukraine; assistant director for maternal & child health programs. For more information, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Baha’{ National Center, Wilmette IL 60091 (phone 708733-3512; fax 708-733-3509).
PIONEERING (HOMEFRONT)
STUDENTS of all ages: consider attending Sinte Gleska University in Rosebud, South Dakota, and help form a Baha'i student organization. Sinte Gleska (named after Spotted Tail, the last great chief of the Rosebud people), is a wellrespected tribal university offering as— sociate and B.A. degrees and a MEd. Students from all over the area (and from other countries) attend the school where those from many ethnic backgrounds en
joy learning in an atmosphere of tolerance and encouragement. This may be your chance to become part of a community where interracial reconciliation is a topic of interest. For information, please
contact the Spiritual Assembly of Rose— bud, c/o Virginia Hoefler, secretary, P.O. Box 557, Rosebud, SD 57570.
HOMEFRONT pioneers wanted in Roxbury, Connecticut. Roxbury (pop. 1,800) is an hour and a half from New York City. Homes are available for $200,000 and up, and many New Yorkers own “country” or “weekend” homes there. For more information, please phone Owen or Shar Gardella, 203-3540103.
HOMEEFRONT pioneers are welcome in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, where a small but active Group of three adults and two youth serves a community of 15,000-plus in and around the city, situated in north-central Minnesota amid lakes and forests. Grand Rapids (birthplace of Judy Garland) is noted as a regional center for tourism, retail trades, printing and paper manufacturing. Close to Indian Reservations. For information, write to the Baha'i Group of Grand Rap— ids, Box 29, Grand Rapids, MN 55744 (phone 218-327-0319).
RETIREES are needed as homefront pioneers in Del Webb's Sun City and Sun City West, Arizona. Enjoy life at moderate living expense while pioneering for Baha'u'llah: golfing, swimming, bowling, shuffleboard, exercise classes, arts and crafts, computer classes, indoor track and many other amenities as well as “handi-capable activities and classes” and miniature golf for grandchildren. Easy to make new friends and spread the Message of Baha'u'llah. Beautiful fa— cilities: new homes, condos, also resale condos and homes at moderate prices. For information, phone Belle Alley, sec retary, Bahé'i Group of Sun City, 602214-0449, or write to
Sun City West, AZ 85375. We have seven in our Group; retirees are needed (ages over 55). Truly an outstanding retirement community with great possibilities for teaching the Faith to senior citizens who need desperately to hear Bahd'u'llah's Message.
YOU ARE INVITED to come and live in Lake Charles, Louisiana, whose small but diverse Baha'i community is seeking to establish a Spiritual Assembly as a goal area of the Three Year Plan. We welcome families and their children, singles, those who are working or retired. For students and teachers, there is McNeese State University and Sowela Technical Institute; for physicians, nurses and other health care providers, there are several medical centers. Lake Charles is also a center of the petrochemical in— dustry and is an entrepreneurial paradise. Lake Charles is a family-centered community, influenced by its Cajun her— itage, with hot summers and mild winters (like Haifa). For loving support for your move, please phone 318-625-5200 or write to the Baha'f Group of Lake Charles, P.O. Box 1374, Lake Charles, LA 70601-1374.
THE SPIRITUAL Assembly of Lower Merion Township, Pennsylvania, strongly: encourages Baha'i students who are in their senior year of high school to consider applying to Ban Mawr, Hav— erford or Swarthmore Colleges for un— dergraduate education. These three splendid liberal arts colleges are located in the beautiful suburbs of Philadelphia with active, loving and supportive Baha’f communities and efficient and functioning Baha'i College Clubs. For more in— formation, phone Gity Etemad, 215-5273114 after 7 p.m. Eastern time.
ARCHIVES
THE NATIONAL Baha‘ Archives is seeking, at the request of the Universal House of Justice, original letters written on behalf of the Guardian to the follow
THe AMERICAN BaHA'l
HELP WANTED
skills.
708-733-3427).
in the NATIONAL TEACHING OFFICE
The office of the National Teaching Committee has been restructured in light of the present needs of the Faith. As a result, applications are being accepted for the following full-time position:
Communications and Development Administrator
Responsible for the communications and development agenda of the National Teaching Committee. Some duties include:
- Develops news and messages to the American Baha’f community for
use in print and audio/visual media.
- Facilitates the production of teaching and deepening materials.
- Gathers and analyzes information related to the teaching work.
Experience: Professional background in writing and production for the media; superior writing skills; comprehensive knowledge of the Baha'i Writings; proven ability in research and data analysis; ability to coordinate the work of volunteer task forces; excellent interpersonal
For more information or to apply, please write to the Office of Human Resources, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone
ing individuals: Elizabeth F. Walker (died Nashville, TN, 1967), M. Rita Wallace (died Denver, CO, 1977), Harry E. Walrath (died Leesport, PA, 1956), Irma Marie Ward, N.F. Ward, Pearl Ward, Joseph J. Warley, and Frank Warner (died Loudonville, OH, 1954). Anyone knowing family members or relatives who might have these letters from the Guardian is asked to contact the National Baha'i Archives, Baha'{ National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708869-9039).
THE NATIONAL Baha‘ Archives would like to hear from librarians who have experience with the following library computer software: Follett Catalog & Circulation Plus, Inmagic, Lexifile, Surpass/2, Sydney and Winnebago. The Archives is evaluating software for the National Baha'i Reference Library. Please contact the National Baha'f Archives, Baha'i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039).
WANTED
GARDEN OF RIDVAN: Bahd’i artist seeks extensive photo coverage of the euane Garden of Ridvan where Baha'u'llah sat under the mulberry tree (see p. 101 of Door of Hope by Dr. David Ruhe). Artist needs images for a new painting, “Garden of Baha’u'll4h.” Will make duplicates of your photographs and return them promptly in good con— dition. Send photos to Wildbank Studios, P.O. Box 219, Westhampton Beach, NY 11978 (fax 516-722-5714).
RED GRAMMER is undertaking a recording project (sponsored by the Spir— itual Assembly of Beacon, New York) and is looking, for original songs with Baha’ themes written by children (ages 14 years and under). Please send your name, age, address and telephone number with a (non-returnable) cassette re— cording of your song and lyric sheet to Laurie Early, c/o BIC, Suite 120, 866 United Nations Plaza, New York, NY 10017.
TEACHERS: we need a capable, qualified and inspired person (or persons) to maintain a regular, ongoing (daily if possible) Baha’{ children’s class. Prefer someone who is early childhood-certified with exceptional educational experience. Teaching positions in the Todd County School District and at the St, Francis In— dian School do exist. There is also an ex— cellent opportunity for resourceful individuals to begin a pre-school, Montessori school or day-care center, as none of these services is available in our community. There is a need and a demand for child-care services here. If you feel compelled to respond, please write to the Spiritual Assembly of Rosebud, c/o Vir inia Hoefler, secretary, P.O. Box 557, osebud, SD 57570.
YOUTH
ATTENTION youth ages 18-25: want to take a semester break from college? There are immediate openings for dancers with the Diversity Dance Work— shop, a performing arts program using dance as a powerful tool to address such serious social problems as violence, racism, poverty and drug and alcohol abuse. Opportunity to tour schools. throughout the Pacific Northwest and California with summer tours to Europe. Youth of all ethnic backgrounds are encouraged to apply. If interested in ob— taining more information or in finding out how to apply for the project, contact Anna Powers, director, 206-391-3303.
ITEMS AVAILABLE
“INTONE, O My servant,” a 43-minute inspirational cassette tape, is available to add another dimension to your personal meditation. Submerse yourself in the ocean of the Creative Word; expand your melodic repertoire; calm and soothe your children at bedtime; make your daily commute spiritually uplifting; oreye an inspirational gift to your non-Baha'i friends. This cassette of Baha'{ prayers and writings sung by Ladjamaya to original music by Lekan is a fund-raisin effort of the Spiritual Assembly of Glen— wood Springs, Colorado, for the Arc Project. Each cassette is $11. Please send your name, address (please print) and check or money order payable to the Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of Glenwood Springs, P.O. Box 491, Glen— wood Springs, CO 81602.
MISCELLANE
ATTENTION all former Nashville (Tennessee) Baha'fs—the Spiritual As— sembly of Nashville celebrates its 60th anniversary in 1995. We are one of the many communities in the South that were brought into being through the efforts of the Hand of the Cause of God Louis G. Gregory. Plans are under way for a summer “homecoming” celebration, date to be announced, and we are looking for anyone and everyone who has ever been a part of the Baha'f community of Nashville. Let us know where you are! We want to record your Nashville experiences and to invite you to attend this special celebration. For more information, contact Joyce Jackson,
Mt. Juliet, TN 37122 (phone 615-758-3336).
SYLVIA Jenkins of Evanston, Illinois, has a surplus of Baha'i books and pam— phlets. For a listing of what is available, write to her at
Evanston, IL 60201-3276.
51 / Decemser 12, 1994 9
511 new Baha'is enrolled in Bolivia campaign
A national teaching campaign was held August 25-September 1 in the Chuquisaca area of Bolivia, in ac— cordance with a goal of the Three Year Plan. More than 80 Baha'is in— cluding members of the National Spiritual Assembly and the Auxiliary Board took part in the campaign, as a result of which 511 new Baha'is were enrolled and 10 new localities opened, among which were two entire communities that accepted the Faith.
.
A successful traditional teaching campaign was held August 20-21 at Marangis village, Kar Kar Island, Papua New Guinea, with the Faith proclaimed to 36 chiefs and more than 350 people at a Bahd'i-sponsored conference. The gathering was opened by the Baha'is of Mara and Mom who welcomed the visitors with a traditional dance, after which the Baha'i youth from Keng sang a song written in honor of the teaching, campaign. Among the topics addressed at the gathering were the history of the Faith; culture, religion and tradition; and Baha'f administration. According to a report, “One of the invited chiefs, Girager Mano, was interviewed [by a Baha'i] and said now he knows what the real teachings of God are through the Baha'fs, and said he would go back home and see or talk to his people...and discuss what he had heard.” Many others responded positively to the Message of Baha'u'llah including 93 who were
enrolled as new Baha'is. .
With the help of Mrs. Nina Gordon, Baha'i youth on a year of service program in Venezuela carried out a teaching campaign in Barquisimeto, supported by the Baha'is in the town. As a result of their efforts, 40 people were enrolled in the Faith.
°
More than 200 people took part in early September in the second Regional Teaching Conference held in
Tblisi, Georgia, in the former Soviet Union. Among those who lent their support were Abbas Katirai, a mem-ber of the Continental Board of Counselors; a member of the Regional Spiritual Assembly; and three members of the Auxiliary Board. Ten communities from Georgia were represented along with Baha'is from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Italy, Kyrgyzstan, Spain and Tajikistan. During the conference, Georgian television broadcast a onehour program on the Faith that included segments on its history and interviews with a Baha'i from Georgia and a family of pioneers. Nine people declared their belief in Baha'u'llah during the conference.
ith the Phil
From August 28-September 4, about 115 Baha'is gathered at the Baha'i summer school in Tekirova, Antalya, Turkey. “Two members of the National Spiritual Assembly of Azerbaijan, along with the assistant head of the Religious Department of that country, attended the last two, days of the school as our guests,” reads the message from the school. Also taking part were Dr. Ilhan Sezgin, a member of the Continental Board of Counselors; five members of the National Spiritual Assembly of Turkey; and members of the Auxiliary Board. Among the topics explored were the Covenant of Baha'— u'llah and the statement, “Promoting Entry by Troops.” As a result of a teaching campaign held during the summer school, a majority of townspeople heard about the Faith and 10 people declared their belief in Baha'u'llah.
10th annual Martin Luther King Jr. National Holiday Parade and March of Celebration Atlanta, Georgia
Once again, the Baha'is of Atlanta will be taking part in the many events of King Week. Please join us to proclaim the glorious Name of Baha'u'llah to those in Atlanta and around the world.
Parade: Saturday, January 14. There will be a Baha'i float; TBS will
telecast nationally and worldwide.
Multicultural prayers around the world: Sunday, January 15. Planned by the Baha'is and held in Freedom Hall at the King Center
to commemorate World Religion Day.
March of celebration: Monday, January 16. Robert C. Henderson, secretary-general of the National Spiritual Assembly, will be one of the co-Grand Marshals, and we will march with hundreds of fellow Baha'is to demonstrate on a massive scale our commitment to the
oneness of humanity.
The Bahd'is of Atlanta are planning many other teaching and proclamation events in mid-January. For more information, please
write to Paulette Trail, 30073, or phone 404-426-7713.
Powder Springs, GA
Meanwhile, a group of 16 Baha'is from Turkey traveled to the Republic of Moldova after the “Shaping Europe” Conference in Bucharest, Romania, and helped enroll 25 people under the Banner of Baha'— u'llah. Throughout their trip, the friends gave introductory pamphlets on the Faith to customs officials at the borders of the countries they crossed—Bulgaria, Moldova, Romania and Turkey.
.
A recent week-long teaching campaign in Szczecin, Poland, resulted in the enrollment of 15 new Baha’fs. The teaching teams—composed of believers from England, Germany, Luxembourg, Poland and the U.S.— distributed more than 3,000 Baha'i pamphlets, invited people to firesides, and held a Baha'i exhibition. They also contacted the city's mayor, who was impressed by the teachings of the Faith and enthusiastically offered his support. The campaign received considerable media attention including one two-hour radio broadcast on the Faith.
°
Seventy Baha'is from 12 countries took part in this year's summer school in Rijeka, Croatia. Topics for discussion included the transformation of individuals and communities. As a result of intensive teaching and proclamation activities in connection with the school, two people embraced the Cause.
.
URANIA, an organization based in Austria that helps shape public opinion by providing courses and seminars, has decided, on its own accord, to hold a course on the Baha’ Faith. The four-part course will focus on the nature and history of the Faith as the youngest of the world’s major religions. “The Spiritual Assembly of Graz has been invited to participate in arranging the seminar program. Two Baha‘fs will thus speak on one evening each,” says the report. The other two lectures will be given by Prof. Hutter, a member of the Faculty
pines, the Muhajir Baha'i Institute recently held its first graduation ceremony. Pictured with their teachers are members of the Institute's first graduating class.
of Religious Studies at the University of Graz who has written a book about the Faith and conducted a seminar on Baha'i themes. °
On May 26 Dr. Jona Bos, the newly appointed Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Ethiopia, was officially received by the National Spiritual Assembly of Ethiopia at the National Center. The visit was held in a festive spirit, with six members of the National Assembly greeting the Ambassador ina gaily decorated National Center. During the hour-long discussion, Dr. Bos asked questions about the history of the Faith, its basic tenets and its relationship to other religions.
.
To honor the 150th anniversary of the Faith, a Baha'f in Lund, Sweden, presented a video series in May at the Department of Theology of Lund University. The believer also created an exhibit entitled “Baha'i—150 Years” which was displayed through the summer months at the university. Among those who saw it were the department's lecturers and students, and participants from various parts of the world who came to Lund to attend the European Congress of the Psychology of Religion.
1st all-S.E. Asian Assembly elected in Yuba County, CA
In September, the Baha’f community of Yuba County, California, elected the first all-Southeast Asian local Spiritual Assembly in the U.S.
The Assembly, known formally as the Spiritual Assembly of the Yuba County Municipal Court Distict, includes three Hmong women and. six Hmong men.
The Sacramento area has the largest number of Hmong Baha'is in the country, and its extension teaching and consolidation efforts were instrumental in achieving this milestone for the country's Southeast Asian Baha'i community.
Activities ee
Clues for Leaders tm ms Peilliant Star.
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Putting the Vision’ into Action!
Children’s teaching Goals and Activities around the country and around the world!
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Reprinted from Brilliant Star, Leadership, September-October 1993
Kirigami Star
by Meg Anderson 1994
3. Fold up comer A along i. the folded side B.
Each small action makes a bigger difference
® Q $28 All other countries, surface mail, two years when you have a plan. Kirigami is a Japanese O$26 Airmail, one year art form. Kirigami means “cutting paper.” O)$50 Airmail, two years ae . 7 Baha'f ID # Make a kirigami sea star by following a plan. Aairelanindencide . Name 22 10212. 62h RS I es aa gy C to match side B.
1. Fold an 8 1/2” by 11” piece of paper in Street half. With the fold toward you, corner A is City & State lower left and comer B is lower right.
5. Marka line from
half way down side A Zip/Postal code
to corner B and cut all the way across. Discard SaaS fhetopipacton aber Payment must be enclosed. Canadian/International orders Pees enclose international money order or bank cheque drawn 6. Unfold your paper. Fold the longer folds ona U.S. bank in U. S. dollars. To charge your VISA/MC toward you and the short folds away. Now your account, give number, expiration date, and name on A & starfish is finished. Decorate it as you like. ecco Tesco none Crary accepted Fold iddle of sid anges 2. Fold corner B to the middle of side A. Each of your actions was just a fold or Exp. Date Name 5 eis 2 , acut. Was each action important? Make check out and mail to: |/ What would happen if one step was Bahd't Subscriber Service "A left out? For any plan, each step is Bahd’f National Center important. Each action you take Wilmette, IL 60091
will help you reach your goal. * \ 1-708-733-3453 )
Reprinted from Brilliant Star, Putting the Vision into Action!, September-October 1994 vi
Continued from page |
justice, harmony and peace among them, the publication said.
The document also dovetailed with Baha'i teachings that abortion should never be used as a form of family planning or contraception. Rather, it is a last resort a person or family can consider to protect the physical health of the mother, or, as in cases of rape or incest, where there is great psychological risk.
At this point in humanity’s evolution, Dr. Bowen noted, Baha’i principle calls upona
tention to use sterilization as their primary means of controlling rising birth rates.
Likewise, Baha'is are not permitted to use any form of birth control that causes the abortion of a fertilized ovum, she noted. Rather, “except in those very special, very delicate cir— cumstances,” we must use those that prevent conception.
At Cairo, Dr. Bowen shared these Baha‘i perspectives in workshops. with representatives of other religious non-governmental organizations (NGOs). They were primarily
Muslim, but also
couple and their Buddhist, Christian physician to consult The document dovetailed = and American Inin a reverent atmo- u chin: dian. sphere as to whether perth Battal ton gs Where there are the procedure is that abortion should qualifications, they necessary or appro- never be used as a form were clearly put priate. of family planning or forth, she said. And “We're given the the evolutionary guidelines and the contraception. Rather, it nature of Baha’i law spirit in which they is a last resort a person was explained. should be ad- or family can consider. This ability to
dressed,” she said.
“We're given the
flexibility to use the best available medical advice and our own conscience, with the clear understanding, that we answer to God.”
Although having children is a primary purpose of marriage, and using birth control to avoid having any children at all is unacceptable, the question of how many children to have is left to the family at this time, she continued.
In our choice of planning methods, though, we are asked to avoid any— thing that causes permanent sterilization. Dr. Bowen said that point is especially important in the light of several governments’ avowed in state squarely a
Baha‘{ position based on the Writings was in sharp contrast to other faiths’ presentations, she said. Some “never once mentioned the word woman, much less population, abortion, contraception or family planning—and that was the topic they were asked to address.”
She said audience members were pleased to hear that the Baha’{ teachings are perfectly clear about chastity before marriage and fidelity within marriage.
This appealed in particular, she said, to the many Egyptian youth present, “who receive so many com— peting images from the Western
MasA' B.£. 151 / DecemsBer 12, 1994 11
media in their country.”
The Baha’i representatives had many opportunities during the conference to speak informally with other participants.
On one long bus ride back to the hotel, a physician from Honduras saw Dr. Bowen’s name tag and told her he knows many Bahd’is, especially those affiliated with Project Bayan, a Baha'i-sponsored economic development project in that country.
The physician went on to say that Baha'is need to become more prominent at gatherings such as the Cairo
Perspectives shared in Cairo with other NGOs
leaders, including the media. A Baha’i International Community statement on world citizenship, for example, was picked up by about 1,000 attendees.
But the highlight for Baha’ representatives was perhaps the massive interfaith worship service held in a large covered stadium.
This event, an unusual phenomenon for Egypt that took 20 hours to arrange, opened with the Muslim Call to Prayer.
As media representatives jostled for camera angles, though, tensions
arose that threatened to plunge the event
conference. After all, Many youth approached into violence. It held he tshould the Bahd's afterward tod help that he the Baha'i principles talk about the Faith. A functioned soon will bring peace. female reporter for the thereafter.
He suggested that leading women’s maga- In this atmosphere, Baha'is offer orienta- nak aa Arab - Dr. Bowen took the tion in those prin- m stage. She realized it ciples before major also conducted a two- was incumbent upon conferences so the hour interview. her to restore a feel— delegates may pro- ing of reverence and ceed in the proper security to the gath— spirit. ering.
During another bus ride, a young Arab woman sat beside Dr. Bowen. On a previous day she had spoken with Mr. Arturo and was delighted that he could converse with her in her language, so she brought along a lovely copy of the Qu’ran to present to him. Dr. Bowen accepted it graciously.
The woman spent the next hour asking questions about the Faith, finally acknowledging that she agrees with everything for which it stands.
Participation in Cairo also gave the Baha'is an opportunity to place materials in the hands of many opinion
Thankfully, at that point the sound system—and the media cameras— returned and Dr. Bowen started to pray, in Arabic and in English. Peace again reigned.
Many youth approached the Baha'is afterward to talk about the Faith. A female reporter for the leading women’s magazine in the Arab world also conducted a twohour interview with them.
The next day, the Baha’is were mentioned in the Egyptian Gazette account of the interfaith service. The Faith had not been mentioned in previous articles on the conference.
Reps given materials on women and moral development
Continued from page |
Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee and Missouri. They related with pride the successes their communities have scored in placing the message of Baha’u'llah before the public through newspapers, radio and tele— vision.
They expressed a need, though, for resources—such as news releases, videotapes, radio spots—and advice on using them locally.
Ms. Swanson brought along some materials the local representatives can immediately put to use. They relate specifically to two areas the Universal House of Justice wants Baha’i communities to focus on right now: women and moral development/education.
With respect to women, the PI representatives can bring attention to the Faith's emphasis on the partnership between women and men in striving to bring about equality of the sexes, and the Baha'i involvement in the process leading to the United Nations’ fourth World Conference on
Women to be held next September in Beijing, China.
On moral development, she said, Baha'is can share with the wider community how we educate our children and the trail-blazing efforts of Counselor Eloy Anello and others. to redefine the concept of leadership.
Ms. Swanson also pointed to newsworthy Baha’i efforts in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of the United Nations, in creating violencefree families, and in social and economic development.
And she said perhaps the greatest story we have to tell is that of our youth. Through Baha’i Youth Workshops and other means, they are living the example of being pure but in the world—“hip but not bad,” as she put it.
In all of our media relations, though, we must keep in mind that PI work is not teaching, cautioned Ms. Swanson. Even when a reporter exhibits great interest in publishing a story, we should not assume that he or she is a seeker.
The other side of the coin, she said,
is that we must not assume the media are out to “get” us. They simply are trying to give an audience what they think the audience wants, and we can help them by supplying story angles that will pique their interest.
Achieving such rapport takes skill and effort, said Ms. Swanson. She recommended that PI representatives initiate consultation within the Baha'i community to establish a long-range media plan and to identify the human and material resources it will require.
Part of that plan, she said, has to be a clear understanding of the PI representative’s role as exclusive media contact—just as the friends must not contact the national news media without the consent of the Office of Public Information.
The community should be aware, Ms. Swanson said, that there are definite limits to what media work can accomplish. Still, she said, such efforts will result, in the long term, in greater and more positive attention for the Faith than paid advertis ing would achieve.
She illustrated the point with a comparison to teaching. Ina letter dated February 9, 1989, written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice to a National Spiritual Assembly, it was noted:
“The International Teaching Center has concluded that the Baha’t institutions in seem to have been placing too much reliance on large, expensive projects, involving a great deal of successful public relations and proclamations.
. “These are, in their own way, very useful activities, but it must be realized that they cannot be expected to produce large numbers of new believers.
“The key to the conversion of people to the Faith is the action of the individual Baha'i conveying the spark of faith to individual seekers, answering their questions and deepening their understanding of the teachings.”
It is that kind of individual teaching opportunity that diligent media work can help bring about.
Na
The photograph at right, taken September 25, shows the view from above the Archives extension, which has areas specially designed to preserve the Holy Writings and relics. Below, a worker lays special material that will provide grid insulation in the Archives extension, thereby maintaining a stable temperature.
Are
@ ~ Nai ‘ pe bbe
The site of the Center for the Study
of the Texts/ Archives extension has
changed dramatically within the
span of less than a year since work
on the foundations of these buildings
was begun. Amidst the welter of
concrete, steel and stone strewn
- across almost 16,560 square meters
(54,640 square feet), their structure is steadily beginning to rise. Work is under way on several fronts.
The Extension to the Archives Building starts at what is considered to be level one. The base walls of the strong room, which is located at this level, have been cast and covered with waterproofing material. Compacting of fill material is under way prior to casting its floor slab.
The parking building, with facilities to serve both the Center for the Study of the Texts and the Archives Extension, begins on level two. Its foundation work has been completed and the walls of a mechanical service corridor separating the parking, building from the Archives Extension have been built.
It should be mentioned here that the design of the mechanical system aims at independent control of all main areas for easy maintenance and flexibility of system changes in the future uses of the buildings. Operational economy and appropriate architectural appearance in various building areas have also been con— sidered. This has led to the provision
Lord. part 6
of mechanical corridors that will provide complete access to electrical and mechanical systems without disturbing the work areas.
The Center for the Study of the Texts (CST) starts on level three. Its entire perimeter wall from this level upward to level four has been raised in concrete. The building's columns are also beginning to go up. A shelter 200 square meters (660 square feet) to the east of the CST is under construction. On the west side, the stairway that connects the Center for the Study of the Texts, the parking building and the Archives Extension is nearing completion, and major backfilling of the 6-meter-high (19.8foot) space adjacent to it is under
way. There are four elevators in the complex—two in the Center for the Study of the Texts, and one each in the parking building and Archives Extension. Their foundations have been completed and the elevator shafts are slowly rising.
inaugurating Phase V
In a major move toward inaugurating Phase V of the Mount Carmel Projects, letters of intent have been exchanged with the contractor, Perez G.G. Engineering, Construction and Management Company Ltd., to build the International Teaching Center.
The company has been nominated on the strength of its work on the Center for the Study of the Texts,
In the wake of the recent visit of the Prime Minister of Israel to the Mount Carmel Projects comes the visit on August 4 of Foreign Min— ister Shimon Peres.
Mr. Peres, with an entourage of high officials, was joined by the mayor of Haifa in touring the construction site.
Earlier, the Foreign Minister was briefed about the latest developments on the projects with a slide presentation and a tour of the models at the Seat of the Universal House of Justice.
The visit is yet another indication of the significance of the Baha'i projects for the city of Haifa and the State of Israel.
Israeli Foreign Minister Shimon Peres (center) views a model of the Terraces. At right is Project Manager Fariburz Sahba.
Adi
Haifa.
Baha'i projects. He
facilities.
Foreign minister visits Arc Projects; tourism impact studied
The view that the Shrine of the Bab will be the prime tourist attraction in Haifa when the Terraces are completed is beginning to crystallize among people in authority. inguished economist from Jerusalem has been commissioned by the Haifa Economic Corporation to study the impact of the Baha't projects on the economy and tourism of the city, and offer recommendations about how to exploit the windfall that could accrue if tourists were induced to stay awhile in
In this connection, the economist came to the World Center in Haifa to see the models and become better acquainted with the was accompanied by his assistant, the consultant, and the architect and project manager for the restoration of the German Templar colony at the base of Mount Carmel.
The conjunction of the German colony with the Terraces at the foot of Mount Carmel leading up to the Shrine of the Bab has provided a major impetus for the speedy restoration of the colony and the development of its main avenue with tourist
MasA'ic 8.€. 151 / Decemper 12, 1994
Applications are invited from Civil/Structural Engineers who have the requisite academic qualifications and, preferably, some experience in supervising work on reinforced concrete buildings. A good knowledge and understanding of structural drawings for reinforced concrete buildings and the working relationships among various disciplines (architectural, structural, mechanical and electrical) would be quite useful. Please write or fax your application to:
Mount Carmel Bah4'i Projects, Project Manager's Office, P.O. Box 155, Haifa 31 001, Israel; Fax 972(04) 358437, Phone 972(04) 358237
eliminating the long, drawn-out process of going to tender, thus saving both time and money. It is hoped that the contract documents will be formalized by the end of the year, but the foundation work is expected to start even sooner.
The Kings" Pathway
If one were to look up from the foot of Mount Carmel toward the Shrine of the Bab, a line of stairs would be visible, rising up to meet the majestic Shrine. Inspired by the vision of the Master and the Guardian, one could visualize the kings and rulers of the earth ascending these stairs with great humility to pay homage at the Threshold of the City of God.
The central stairway that constitutes the Kings’ Pathway is now being covered with the bushhammered Jatt stone. Laying the stone on the stairs is proceeding with meticulous care and patience. Linking each Terrace to another are three flights of stairs, each comprised of 16 steps 2.76 meters (9.1 feet) wide. At the top is an ornamental gate, and from there another short flight of six steps leads to a terrace platform. From Terraces 8 to 6 below the Shrine of the Bab, this stone work has been completed, with 172 stairs already in place.
The areas on the west side of the central stairway are being developed, and olive trees have been planted on Terraces 9 to 5. Both the east and west sides have also been taken up for simultaneous development on Terraces 3 and 4 as the precast gutters and geometric curves are in place, clearly delineating their shape.
Ornaments for the Terraces
Among the many details that will enhance the mystic beauty and delicacy of the Terrace gardens are lovely ornaments cast in bronze and stone. Each Terrace will be adorned with two large bronze urns, one on each side of the fountain pools; and every post interspersing the balustrades on the contour walls will be mounted with stone planter urns holding variegated flowers. Up the Kings’ Pathway on each side of the stairway, alternating stone and bronze urns will stand in the shadows of the cypresses. And on the posts of the wrought iron gates leading to every Terrace, an eagle will stand guard.
These planter urns and decorative figures are being created by the Ornaments Department of the Mount Carmel Projects office in Haifa. The process is fascinating and ingenious; the results, stunning.
In the first instance, a mould is created. A master copy is made of the design in plaster of paris using the original drawings. A six-piece mould of rigid fiberglass with a core is then prepared around this model. The plaster is removed and the mould assembled according to the design specifications.
The second process involves the stone for the urns. The off-cuts from the stone work on the Terraces is crushed to specific grades ranging from stone dust to pea-sized aggregates. This is blended with white cement and a small quantity of yellow oxide. Mixed together with water and a plasticizer, the blend is then poured into the mould and vibrated for half an hour. The urn takes 12 hours to cure before the mould can be disassembled. Any air bubbles are then filled using a color-matched mix and the surface is hand-sanded, resulting in a beautiful urn to be used as a planter.
About 200 urns are required for the Terraces. Work has begun on casting the eagles, and a variety of urns in bronze will be cast as soon as this is accomplished.
Stone planter urns await placement along the Kings’ Pathway, the central stairway of the Terraces rising to the Shrine of the Bab.
A worker delicately paints one of the decorative eagles that will stand guard on the posts of the wrought iron gates leading to
every Terrace.
At right, one can see on Terraces three and four below the Shrine of the Bab the intricate arragement of stainless steel pipes for the fountains and small streams. The pipes will be covered by concrete and stone work. Above, the east and west sides of Terraces three and four are being developed. This photograph shows topsoil being laid in this area with the help of a crane.
13
[Page 14]
Baha'is of Holland, Michigan, receive
publicity, support after ‘cult’ remark
“An attack upon the Faith triggers a mighty sequence of events which leads inevitably to the ultimate triumph of the Cause.” —Shoghi Effendi
The Baha'i community of Holland, Michigan, received favorable newspaper publicity—and support from many friends—following a city council meeting in October during which one councilman voted not to accept a donation of seven Baha'i books to the public library on the grounds that the Faith is a “cult.”
After an article about the councilman's vote (the donation was approved 7-1) appeared in the Lakeshore Press (a community-based section of the larger Grand Rapids Press), a reporter from the newspaper contacted the Baha'is of Holland
(who were preparing a written response in the form of a letter to the editor), came with a photographer to a Baha'i meeting, and wrote a favorable and generally accurate article about the Faith that appeared in the paper's October 21 issue.
Many residents of Holland approached the Baha'is to offer support and express their amazement at the councilman's position. A professor at Hope College sent a letter to the councilman, chastising him for his comments about the Faith.
Meanwhile, the books have been placed in the Herrick Public Library and are available to everyone— including the city councilman—who would like to learn more about the Faith.
U.S. Baha'i Refugee Office takes part in Illinois ‘Refugee Week’ observance with display, pamphlets
The U.S. Baha'i Refugee Office was invited to take part October 24-28 in “Refugee Week,” proclaimed by Gov. Jim Edgar of Illinois and held at the James R. Thompson Center in Chicago.
USBRO displayed photographs and books related to its involvement in resettling U.S.-bound Iranian and Southeast Asian Baha'i refugees, and distributed nearly 200 copies of its
informational brochure and the pamphlet on race unity.
Refugee Week in Illinois was observed in an effort to promote an awareness of the many organizations serving the refugee communities.
The 23 groups taking part included medical centers, social service agencies, and educational organiza tions that serve the needs of refugees.
14
Masnivyar 8.€. 151 / SeptemBer 27, 1994
i
- 9 ef
r i i a
l Mi i R a x 3 On August 20-21, nearly 20 Baha'is marched in the annual Heritage Festival parade in Ypsilanti, Michigan, and manned an information booth each day. Lending their support were Baha'is from Ypsilanti, Ypsilanti Township, Pittsfield Township, Ann Arbor and Detroit. Thousands of people attend the annual parade and festival.
National Assembly urges friends not to get
involved in computer network arguments
The National Spiritual Assembly the Faith. Let them be guided by the has noted with concern a growing following counsel of the beloved number of postings on various. Guardian from a letter dated Novem
SUPPORT ENTRY BY TROOPS
1-800-SEEKERNET
Toll-free anywhere in the U.S. Is YOUR name in SEEKERNET? To join the team of volunteer Baha'is who make up SEEKERNET, all you have to do is call and leave your name, Baha'f I.D. number, address and telephone number. It's easy, takes less than a minute, and is absolutely free. Simply phone 1-800-SEEKERNET
As a member of SEEKERNET, you will be asked to contact seekers in your area (who have said they would like to be contacted with information on the Faith). You receive the bounty of guiding a soul to its beloved. But you have to phone
1-800-SEEKERNET
SEEKERNET is a nationwide data base of ordinary Baha'is like yourself who are taking this extra step to arise and avert the possible financial crisis facing the Faith due to our simple lack of numbers. SEEKERNET maximizes our teaching efforts. The concept is simple:
SEEKERNET “CATCHES” SEEKERS
It keeps seekers from “falling through the cracks.” Say you are traveling or at work when you introduce someone to the Faith—but you don't know anything about the Baha'i community in their area. Ask them if they would like to be contacted about the Faith by someone in their area. Then get their phone number, name and address; find a phone, and
CALL 1-800-SEEKERNET
SEEKERNET connects Baha'is with seekers. We pass the information on your seeker to the Assembly, Group or isolated believer nearest your seeker. We follow up. We'll let you know who is handling your seeker and inform you when he or she declares. We'll check periodically to make sure your seeker has been contacted. We'll keep informed, and keep you informed.
CALL FOR A SEEKER: CALL TO JOIN CALL 1-800-SEEKERNET
Do it while it’s on your mind.
(SEEKERNET is a project begun on the 150th anniversary of the Declaration of the Bab by the Spiritual Assembly of the City of the Covenant, in response to the National Spiritual Assembly's call to arise. Volunteers handle the administrative end. The only expenses are for telephone and postage. For information about SEEKERNET, please contact the Spiritual Assembly of New York City, Baha'i Center, 53 E. 11th St, New York, NY 10003.)
computer bulletin boards in which the friends tend to become involved in argumentative discussions about the Faith.
Often the friends who are engaged in such discussions are well-meaning and simply desire to set the record straight when they see inaccuracies. Some of the friends have done a good job in this respect, but the wisdom of carrying on frequent exchanges of this nature in a public forum where non-Bahd'is are taking part is questionable.
The National Assembly urges those friends who are involved in such electronic communications to practice moderation, restraint and wisdom in their discussions about
ber 29, 1937, and written on his behalf to an individual believer:
“...refrain, under any circumstances, from involving yourselves, much less the Cause, in lengthy discussions of a controversial character, as these, besides being fruitless, actually cause incalculable harm to the Faith. Baha'u'llah has repeatedly urged us not to engage in religious controversies, as the adepts of former religions have done.
“The Baha'i teacher should be concerned above all in presenting the Message, in explaining and clarifying all its aspects. ...He should avoid all situations that, he feels, would lead to strife, to hair-splitting and interminable discussions.”
“Every individual believer—man, woman, youth and child—is summoned to this field of action; for it is on the initiative, the resolute will of the individual to teach and to serve, that the success of the entire community depends.”— The Universal House of Justice, Ridvan 1988
Teachers
Continued from page 4
For information on applying to public schools in U.S. Territories, contact:
¢ Mariana Islands—Director of Education, Personnel Services Division, Department of Education, P.O. Box DE, Agana, Guam 96910.
Personnel Officer, Secretary of Education, Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, Saipan, Mariana Islands 96590.
- American Samoa—Director of
Education, Department of Education, Pago Pago, American Samoa 96920.
- ¢ Caroline Islands—Ministry of
Education, Government of Palau, Koror, PW 96940
© Puerto Rico (deadline is end of February; you must speak Spanish)—Department of Education,
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Attn: Director of Recruitment, Hato Rey, PR 00919.
Addresses of former American territories that hire American teachers:
- Marshall Islands—Recruitment,
Ministry of Education, P.O. Box 3, Majuro, Marshall Islands 967960
- Caroline Islands—Office of
Administrative Services, ATTN: Personnel Office, FSM National Government, Palikir, Pohnpei 96941.
Teachers for Africa Program— Contact International Foundation for Education and Self-Help, 5040 East Shea Blvd., Suite 260, Phoenix, AZ 85254-4610 (phone 800-835-3530; fax 602-443-1824).
For more information, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Baha’f National Center, Wilmette 60091 (phone 708-733-3512; fax 708733-3509).
MasA'1 B.€. 151 / DecemBer 12, 1994 1 5
Workshop dances across two countries DDW tour adds dimension to ‘Shaping Europe’ campaign
Audiences throughout Germany and Switzerland gathered in public squares, marketplaces and busy street malls this summer to see Baha'i teachings demonstrated with commitment and energy by the Diversity Dance Workshop.
The obstacles at times seemed insurmountable: 100-degree heat, lack of drinking water, and cos— tumes dripping with perspiration.
But the Bellevue, Washington-based troupe’s spirit of service to the German Baha’i community and to youth teaching teams in each city was never lacking.
The 13 young volunteers arrived in Seattle on July 9, the anniversary of the Martyrdom of the Bab, for a week of training with DDW artistic director Laura Lee. They came from near and far: Washington, California, Ohio, Alaska, Canada and Brazil.
Then it was time to depart, accompanied by Ms. Lee, program director Anna Powers, and Judy Rohm, a Seattle resident who became a Baha'i in Germany many years ago.
But first, an impromptu performance at the airport terminal in Vancouver—setting the stage for spontaneous performances throughout the six-week tour.
Once in Germany, the troupe hooked up with youth teaching teams galvanized by a series of “Shaping Europe” conferences that brought together more than 5,000 young Baha'is from all over Europe.
Language and culture may have varied, but not their love for Bahd’u’'llah and the feeling of urgency that youth must act now to carry forward an ever-advancing civilization through service and sacrifice.
After performing at the Shaping Europe conference in Berlin, DDW toured the eastern German cities of Chemnitz, Dresden, Zerbst, Leipzig and Weimar, never knowing what was to come because the Baha’i
youth in that region had no telephones.
It was different, after a year of performing in school auditoriums throughout Washington and California, to take the troupe's act to the streets, but that is where DDW found large numbers of interested people.
The audiences were surprised, but became captivated as the performance touched their hearts and created an interest in the Faith. Many people asked questions. Pamphlets and booklets were willingly taken everywhere the dancers went.
Declarations also took place— several in the days following the troupe’s departure. In each locality, follow-up teaching continued, initiated through the energy and message of the DDW performance.
The troupe next toured western Ger-many, giving performances in Olden-berg, Hamburg, Wiesbaden, Stuttgart, Schwabisch Hall, Mulheim de Ruhr, Frechen, Aachen and Frankfurt.
Young German Baha'is traveled across the country for the group’s final performance, August 27 in
Members of the Diversity Dance Workshop who toured Europe this summer include (kneeling left to right) program director Anna Powers and artistic director Laura Lee and (standing left to right) Shahani Porushotma, Ray Jackson, Bevin Powers, Esa Locke, Nava Yeganehfar, David Brown, Rommer Gallardo, Shahab Ma’ani, Tana Rychetnik, Shigoni Beigle, Jesse Cooper and Leili Walker. Susan Kent is not pictured.
Frankfurt. Others came from as far away as the Netherlands and Switzerland.
The Frankfurt performance was part of a celebration of the city’s 1,200th anniversary, and DDW was honored to be featured in the highlight event.
As the dancers moved gracefully on an outdoor stage, Ms. Powers looked out at the sea of young and old, many wearing DDW T-shirts purchased at other performances.
“| focused on the faces in the audience,” recalls Ms. Powers. “I was amazed as I saw their eyes fixed on the movements which told a message, which moved their hearts, and which will never be forgotten.
“The sound system was so incredibly crystal clear that even people sitting in cafés blocks away could hear the message: quotations from the Baha'i writings that addressed the equality of men and women, the need to help the poor in our midst, the need to abandon the use of drugs and alcohol, the importance of creating stronger family ties, the elimination of prejudices of all kinds,
and lastly, the message of the oneness of mankind and unity.
“Even the unity prayer, preceded by the Unity Prayer Dance, a lovely ballet performed by Sha— hani Porushotma of Cupertino, California, was heard by thousands,” says Ms. Powers. “We have no way of knowing what the effect might be. As two TV stations air our performances in the coming weeks, I am convinced Germany will continue to harvest the fruits of our efforts.”
But the tour didn’t end there. DDW was invited on the spot to perform in four Swiss cities: Basel, Delamont, Nyon and Zug.
On the dancers’ last night in Switzerland, they were hosted by Iraj and Rose Mary Sabet. Mr. Sabet told the moving story of his father’s mis— sion for the Guardian to find the paintings of Marion Jack that were lost after she passed away in Bulgaria.
He then surprised the troupe by presenting a painting of Marion Jack for the DDW office. Many were moved to tears as they realized what this symbolized.
There were other tears shed in the tour of Europe. In the words of DDW member Shahani Porushotma:
“T will never forget the tears in the eyes of a young Bosnian refugee as she approached me after the Racism Dance to express her appreciation to the workshop. She had experienced first-hand in her own war-torn country the problems we were depicting, and she spoke of her many relatives and friends who had lost their lives over these very issues.
“Nor can I forget the reaction of the 200 prison inmates at a performance in Schwabisch Hall after the Dance of Betrayal (drug dance). I later found out that all the prisoners were there for drug offenses. I was so moved to hear the comments of one of the in— mates: ‘I realized through your dance that the solution to all my problems lies not in drugs, but it is a spiritual solution that I am seeking.”
National Teaching Committee reports greatly increased activity
Continued from page |
Convention in a facility that will ac— commodate a larger number of the believers.
The treasurer reported on the continuing shortfall in contributions to the National and other Funds. There
followed a lengthy consultation with the staff of the Treasurer's Office about ways to inform the community of the great financial needs of the Cause in the concluding years of this century.
The National Assembly met with the National Teaching Committee,
which reported greatly increased activity throughout the country but no substantial increase in enrollments as yet.
Members of the National Spiritual Assembly offered their services to teach in areas where their participation could be useful to reinforce
current efforts.
The National Assembly set aside time for a continuing discussion of the issues of unity and diversity and of the equality of women and men, these two issues being of fundamental importance to the Baha'i community and to the world at large.
[Page 16]
Letters
Suicide is tragic, painful, not condoned by Writings
To the Editor:
Tam writing about the letter from Jan Thompson which appeared in the October 16 issue of The American Baha’i.
First, my heart (and undoubtedly those of everyone who read her letter) goes out to Jan. Her pain and grief are evident; she may be sorting out feelings about her sister Lu Ann's suicide for the rest of her life.
I am concerned, however, on two counts. While I can certainly understand Jan's wanting to find meaning in Lu Ann's tragic death through teaching—this is life-affirming, positive and healing—I would be concerned if, in the name of teaching, the fact that it was a tragedy were somehow denied, undealt with or minimized.
Iam also concerned lest anyone should get the idea that taking one's own life is a way out of depression and a “shortcut” to being with God, or that the Baha'i Writings in any way condone suicide.
It is a poignant image, that of Lu Ann clutching in death her beloved Baha'f books. No doubt the healing message of the Faith gave her some of the only moments of peace she knew during her 20-year struggle with depression. I don't know the people involved, and can only assume that everything possible was
done for Lu Ann, including warning her of the spiritual implications of suicide.
It seems to me that her death may have the most meaning if we respond to it by increasing our understanding and knowledge of depression, and how to avert other tragedies like this one.
Jenina Shaw Lepard Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
We should recite verses every day from Manifestation
To the Editor:
Many Baha'is may be under the impression (as I was) that by reading from the various daily Baha'i reading books, we are fulfilling the admonishment to “recite ye the verses of God every morn and eventide” (Kitdb-i-Aqdas, para. 149).
But some of those readings are from ‘Abdu’l-Baha, and note No. 165 in the Kitab-i-Aqdas tells us that the term “verses of God” does not include the writings of ‘Abdu’l-Baha. So on those days we should add readings from a Manifestation of God.
Renaldo Raeheim Modesto, California
Teaching foreign students earns bounties for couple, community
To the Editor:
We would like to share with the friends the joys and rewards of two personal teaching experiences here in Las Cruces, New Mexico.
About three years ago we met two Hindus, Koneru and Satish, who were graduate students at the University of Texas-El Paso, invited them to supper, and introduced them to the Faith at what was their first fire— side.
They soon asked to become Baha'is and brought other friends for us to teach. They also asked if they might call us “uncle” and “auntie.” We felt honored.
In two weeks there were six dec— larations; those six taught 10 other students at the university in El Paso, all of whom declared. This happened in less than two months.
Koneru was graduated and has a job in Texas. He called to ask if he could take auntie to India for a month to meet his new wife and his relatives and to visit the Baha'f House of Worship there. He told us we are truly his American parents.
Also about three years ago we introduced ourselves to a couple from Thailand who are Buddhists. They asked if we would be their American parents, and again we were honored.
Koneru, Satish, and Richard Hoff.
They both were graduated from UTEP with four-point grade averages, and have their doctorates. Their children call us grandpa and grandma; they are as much a part of our family as our own children.
These are among the bounties of teaching foreign students.
Richard and Pauline Hoff Las Cruces, New Mexico
THe American BaHA'l
16
LETTERS POLICY
est. The purpose of the “letters” column
is to allow a free and open exchange of ideas
and opinions, never to denigrate another's
views or to attack anyone personally.
Opinions expressed in these columns are
those of the writers, and are not necessarily
those of the National Spiritual Assembly
or the editors.
Letters should be as brief as possible (a 250-word maximum is suggested) and are subject to editing for length and style. Please address all letters to The Editor, The American Baha'i, Baha'i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.
“The shining spark of truth cometh forth only after the clash of differing opinions.”
—Abdu'l-Baha
The American Baha'i welcomes letters to the editor on any topic of general inter
‘Bond of union’ is essential
To the Editor:
To more fully understand the process of becoming a teacher of the Faith, I have been studying the life of the Master teacher and true Exemplar— ‘Abdu’l-Baha—and have found Howard Colby Ives' book, Portals to Freedom, invaluable for this purpose.
The book offers a fascinating account of ‘Abdu’l-Baha's visit to the U.S. and a compelling reflection of is teaching style.
Mr. Ives recounts how someone once asked ‘Abdu’l-Bahé why everyone who met Him came away with a “shining face.” ‘Abdu’l-Baha replied that “if it were so, it must be because He saw in every face the face of His Heavenly Father.” (p. 46)
This, to me, is the key to success in any teaching endeavor. I don't want to become so preoccupied with methods and plans that I overlook this essential spiritual attribute.
One of the most important things I want to teach is unity. As the Universal House of Justice said in its recent message to the U.S. National Spiritual Assembly: “The guarantee of well-being and success in all your endeavors to serve the Cause of God can be stated in one word: unity. It is the alpha and omega of all Baha'i objectives.”
Unity implies a spiritual relationship, and a relationship involves more than one person. Therefore, unity is not something I can teach alone. I need the presence and support of that spiritual community to which I belong—“the community of the Most Great Name.” It is to this community, and not to me as an individual, that seekers will ultimately be drawn. It is this community that embraces us all and empow
ers us to reflect the Master's example.
Thus, my first goal as a teacher is to try to follow ‘Abdu’l-Baha's example with my fellow-Baha’is: to see “the face of His Heavenly Father in every fate” and, as Mr. Ives says, to “reverence the soul behind it.” (Por— tals to Freedom, p. 116)
I seek the “bond of union,” of which the Master spoke when He visited this country: “This is the bond of union among Baha'is all over the world. They become united among themselves, then unite others. It is impossible to unite un— less united.” (The Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 156)
Theodore Heizer Eau Claire, Wisconsin
Line drawings helpful
To the Editor:
I was most happy to see the line drawing approach for children from Brilliant Star on page 10 (The American Baha'i, September 27).
As a special education teacher for sixth grade through adults and an ESL teacher as well, this method commonly helps children and also a wide range of adults.
Many adults have a strong visual style to retaining what they learn, and this illustration in one major article per issue would be quite helpful.
A person does not have to be an artist to do this, so an original effort each issue on, say, the Fund or teaching would reach the hearts of many readers and not take a lot of time.
Judy Orloff Foxboro, Massachusetts
Pts ansehen
It takes unity, sacrifice, obedience to reach goals
To the Editor:
The answer to the question of why the U.S. Baha'i community is not growing is spiritual in nature, and can be found in the Writings:
“Say: O people of God! That which can insure the victory of Him Who is the Eternal Truth, His hosts and helpers on earth, have been set down in the sacred Books and Scriptures, and are as clear and manifest as the sun. These hosts are such righteous deeds, such conduct and character, as are acceptable in His sight.” (Baha'u'llah,
cited in Guidelines for Teaching, pp. 9294)
As to the question of what will best remedy our budget deficit, the an— swer lies in a single word: sacrifice. The history of all religions testifies that small acts of sacrifice create phenomenal results.
There is another way to look at the Fund problem; when the Universal House of Justice tells us that the Baha'i community must come up with suf— ficient funds to pay for the Arc Project, they are telling us that it is within our
present capacity to raise the money, not at some future time when our numbers will have increased.
Responding to the recent letter from the House of Justice, which said that by thinking of the funds needed for the Arc Project in terms of units of $9,000 each the friends might more easily reach the goal, the Baha'is of Canada have arisen to conduct an intensive nationwide fund-raising campaign in which even financially strapped communities are vying with one another to raise funds in units of $9,000. The
To the Editor:
In spite of many wonderful proclamation efforts and successful publicity for the Faith, Bahd'fs in many areas of the country aren't always accessible to those who are interested in contacting them.
In our area we have “Baha'f community of ——” listed in the phone book under “Religious Organizations” but haven't been able to afford the cost of entering “Baha'i, see Religious Organizations” under the listing for “Churches” in the yellow pages. To be listed in the white pages also costs extra and sometimes requires a business phone listing.
Although we also have paid ads in the church pages on Fridays, we have still heard about cases where
How accessible are we when seekers call?
people wanted to get in touch with Baha'is but didn't know how. And we've heard about traveling Baha'is having difficulty trying to contact Baha'f communities in larger cities—instead of reaching a person they got a recording asking them to leave a message. In some cases the messages were not returned even after
repeated calls.
The questions this Assembly would like to raise for other communities to consider are: How accessible is the Baha'i community to those who wish to make contact? Can we make it easier? Do we want to be more accessible? Can we afford not to be?
Spiritual Assembly of Durango, Colorado
Mark A. Reddy, secretary
To the Editor:
As we Baha'is are often far from understanding the race issue, we should avoid labeling people or ideas racist.
I know this is difficult to do when we really think we know and can recognize racism on sight. One doctrine currently being questioned is one that seeks to define racism as a
power relationship declaring that minorities cannot be racist.
In “Herald of the South,” Vol. 37, Craig Loehle claims that this doctrine is “particularly pernicious...hatred is hatred, whatever excuse we use to justify it....”
Tagree with much of Mr. Loehle's analysis concerning the answer to racism, namely that “...true equality
Some dictionaries lack definition
To the Editor:
In choosing a dictionary, one simple way to decide among them is to look up a word that one may know the meaning of better than the publishers themselves. I look up “Baha'i.”
Irecently chose Webster's College Dictionary (Random House). The worst definition I came across was in a
best-unnamed dictionary that included such statements as “Bahaism, a form of
Babism; oriental, mystical quality, and reflecting specifically the attitudes of the Islamic Shiah sect.” There was no mention of such Baha'i principles as tolerance or the essential worth of all religions.
So beware—and try to be the one in your office who chooses the next
new dictionary! Jeff Jeffries
Fairfax, Vermont
L.A. Workshop performance still talked about
To the Editor:
The Los Angeles Baha'i Youth Workshop performed July 8 at my child's elementary school (Argonne Alternative School). I am continuing to hear from the parents and teachers at the school about what a thrilling experience it was for them.
The principal and teachers say that what impressed them most was the outstanding character every one of the Workshop members displayed.
They remarked about their courtesy and positive exuberance. The principal said, “Robert, I had no idea you were a Baha'i. How in— teresting!”
A parent said, “I have a good friend who became a Baha’f. The Baha'i Faith mellowed her out.”
The principal wants to know if we can make this an annual event.
Robert Berry San Francisco, California
Refrain from labeling people, ideas racist
is based on reciprocity of trust. ...” I take issue, however, with the characterization of this doctrine as somehow an “excuse” for harboring racial hatred. In a nutshell, I see no inherent relationship between racial hatred and this doctrine.
Since this letter must remain brief, I won't comment on the history of the concept of racism; instead, I direct the interested reader to an article in Current magazine (January 1993), “Language of Race: Talking Past One Another,” for more information about this.
There is a more important point to be made than the outcome of whether or not the oppressed can be racist. By tossing aside this view without ample consideration and understanding, we run the risk of inspiring mistrust among friends who hold such beliefs.
Furthermore, when we label a doctrine or theory as “particularly pernicious,” I wonder how such well-documented racist practices as segregation, patronizing attitudes, or coolness in response go unmentioned?
My experience tells me that the solution to this problem does not lie in accepting or rejecting any particular theory of how racism works. Perhaps the solution is best expressed by the Guardian in The Advent of Divine Justice (pp. 24-38), and it is here that I strongly urge Baha'is to turn.
Albert Taborn IT Milwaukee, Wisconsin
fund-raising has exceeded expectations and created harmony and unity in the community.
The Baha'is of Columbus have followed Canada's example and adopted a goal of one unit beyond their original Fund goal.
Three inter-related principles are involved, and we will achieve our goals according to the degree in which we follow them. They are unity, obedience, sacrifice.
Vafa Motlagh Columbus, Ohio
‘Preachy’ letters don’t mirror our compassion
To the Editor:
It sometimes saddens me to read the letters to The American Baha't; some of them seem to be so “preachy.”
It seems as if, in our zeal for love of Baha'u'llah, we overstep certain bounds and enter the realm of condemning others for their laxity, whether it be in contributing to the Funds, attending Feast, doing more to promote race unity, and so on.
In The Hidden Words (Arabic No. 24), we read: “O Son of Man! Transgress not thy limits, nor claim that which beseemeth thee not. Prostrate thyself before the countenance of thy God, the Lord of might and power.” And in Arabic No. 26: “O Son of Being! How couldst thou forget thine own faults and busy thyself with the faults of others! Whoso doeth this is accursed of Me.”
‘Abdu’l-Baha said, “Never speak disparagingly of others. ...” Perhaps I have transgressed those bounds by writing this letter—but it grieves my heart to think of the guilt that must be felt by those of us who don't seem to be meeting the high standards of our Faith when we read letters by others admonishing us to do so.
Please, let us try to temper our comments with mercy. God is mer— ciful and compassionate. Let us strive to mirror forth this quality.
Francesca Moldenhauer Dunlap, Illinois
Subcribing to the Arc instead
To the Editor:
Do you really want to raise money for the Arc?
Icanceled my subscription to TV Guide, and asked for a refund. I re— ceived $73.38, which I promptly sent to the Baha'i International Fund.
Tam now thinking about canceling some other magazine subscriptions. May I respectfully and lovingly challenge you to do the same?
Name and address withheld by request
18
Youth Service Corps volunteers needed abroad
In the most recent issue of The American Bahai we listed the many outstanding services being rendered to the Cause by Baha’i youth all over the world. The opportunities to do similar “great, great deeds” in service to the Cause are plentiful. Below is a brief description of the needs for Bah4‘i Youth Service Corps volunteers in each of those countries, quoted from a document sent by the World Center to all National Spiritual Assemblies last June or summarized from recently received letters. The widely spoken languages
are listed after the name of each country. °
AFRICA
Botswana—Tswana and English. “Like so many communities in Africa, the Baha’i community of Botswana wishes to see its youth arise and serve the Faith on an unprecedented scale during the Three Year Plan. To achieve this, the community would like to receive youth-year-of-service volunteers to work alongside the young people of Botswana and help stimulate a youth movement in the country.”
Equatorial Guinea—Spanish. “There are many opportunities for growth through the enrollment of new believers and the coming of age of Baha’i
among the youth are good.”
Senegal—Wolof and French. “The Baha’i community is in need of youth-year-of-service volunteers who have international driver’s licenses to run its recently-acquired mobile institute, which is prov— ing to be of invaluable assistance in the teaching work.”
Swaziland—Swazi and English. “The Faith is well-recognized [in Swaziland], and the Baha’f community has successful social and economic projects in the areas of environment and education, particularly at the preschool level. Short-term pioneers, including youth-year-of-service volunteers, are required to accelerate the teaching work and the institute program.”
Tanzania—Swahili and English. “There is a great spirit of receptivity in many parts of our country and both short- and long-term traveling teachers and youth-year-of-service volunteers are urgently needed to assist with all aspects of the teaching work. ...Entry by troops has started in one area of Tanzania and is on the verge of starting in many other areas.”
Togo—Ewe, Kabiye and French. “Long- and shortterm pioneers who can remain in the country at least 12 months are needed to fill the goal of
creating a permanent insti
“4
Tina (right) and Neda Yazdani, sisters who took part this summer in the Marion Jack Teaching Project in Siberia, had this photograph taken for their mother with the book Some Answered Questions in Russian. Their mother, Shanaz Yazdani, of Mt. San Jacinto, California, raised $3,200 to translate into Russian and print 10,000 copies of the book by baking and selling Persian sweets, the proceeds from which were donated to the project. She is now baking for a second publication in Russian, and hopes to raise the funds by Naw-Ruz, The photograph appeared with an article about the girls' teaching
experiences in a local newspaper, the Hemet News.
children. The National Spiritual Assembly has requested youth-year-of-service volunteers. These human resources [including long-term pioneers and traveling teachers] are needed to carry out projects for large-scale enrollment, consolidation, and for children’s educational programs.”
Malawi—Chichewa and English. “Malawi would be pleased to receive youth-year-of-service volunteers, short-term pioneers and traveling teachers to assist with proclamation and deepening activities, to train teachers of children’s classes, and to work on literacy and primary health care projects.”
Niger—Huasa and French. “The National Spiritual Assembly of Niger is looking for pioneer youth—unmarried, French-speaking, self-supporting and deepened—who can settle for a year or more in the remote cities of Afadez and Diffa... [where] the possibilities for teaching the Faith
tute. This would include living on location and planning and coordinating, classes. Youth-year-of-service volunteers are needed to assist with establishing children’s classes.”
Southern Africa via training in Zambia [froma letter received from the National Assembly of Zambia): “Beginning with a service orientation course at the William Masehla Baha’f Institute in September 1994, a variety of service opportunities are available for youth age 20 and over in 12 southern African countries, several of which are English-speaking.”
AMERICAS
Belize—English and Spanish. “A recent census conducted in Belize showed that a substantial number of residents consider themselves to be Baha'is. ...Youthyear-of-service volunteers could help stimulate the increasing participation of Belizean youth in Baha’f activities.” (Please call the Office of Pioneering about another immediately available opportunity in the Mayan area of Belize.)
Bolivia—Spanish, Aymara and Quechua. “The National Spiritual Assembly would like to receive pioneer families and youth-year-of-service volunteers, preferably Spanish-speaking, to undertake two types of service: (1) to settle in certain regions and assist in teaching the Cause and developing local communities, and (2) to help with social and economic development projects. Youth-year-ofservice volunteers could assist in village teaching among the Quechua people, deepening and training activities for local youth, adult literacy classes and children’s classes.”
Colombia—Spanish. “Among the accomplishments of the Colombian Baha’i community are the sustainment of large-scale expansion and consolidation over the years, the establishment of a sys—
tematic program for the development of human resources, and the settlement of a number of youth ‘nuclei’ as homefront pioneers throughout the country. ... There is a need for youth, especially those with artistic talents, to be incorporated into the nuclei of homefront pioneers in order to promote the use of theater and music in local communities.”
Costa Rica—Spanish. “The National Spiritual Assembly is asking for short- and long-term pio— neers of particular backgrounds...[including] Spanish-speaking North American youth. North American youth who do not speak spanish could also consider serving in Costa Rica, as the National Assembly offers Spanish classes, orientation to Latin American culture, and training courses.”
Ecuador—Spanish. Up to two volunteers, either male or female, needed for the 1994-95 academic year at the Ratil Pavon Baha’i School. Prospective volunteers should plan to attend the Youth-Yearof-Service course at the Ruhi Institute in Colombia beforehand.
Guadeloupe—French and Guadeloupe French Creole. “A few youth-year-of-service volunteers. could be used to serve at the National Center, assist the National Secretary, work with the Youth Committee, and conduct children’s classes.”
Haiti—French and Haitian Creole. “The National Spiritual Assembly would like francophone youth or adults to work at the Anis Zunuzi school and help with literacy and other development projects.”
Martinique—French and Martinique French Creole. “The Spiritual Assembly of Martinique is looking for mature individuals, well-adapted to the French-Caribbean milieu, who can serve as shortor long-term pioneers. Their assistance is needed in teaching, consolidating local communities, and in helping the community focus on new growth. Youth who could enroll in the university would also be most welcome.”
Panama—Spanish. “The House of Worship needs youth-year-of-service volunteers and a pioneer couple in charge of public relations.”
Paraguay—Spanish. “The people of Paraguay are receptive to the Faith and the Baha’i community is persistent in its endeavors. ...The area bordering Brazil where the towns of Canendeju, Pedro Juan Caballero and Ciudad del Oeste are situated...could benefit from the service of a pioneer family or youth-year-of-service volunteers able to collaborate on well-defined plans with the Brazilian border communities.”
West Leeward Islands—Dutch, English, French, Spanish and Patois. The National Spiritual Assembly of the West Leeward Islands recently praised the efforts of a pair of youth serving in their is— lands last year, meytioning that “we miss them very much,” “please send more youth!” Two youth offering to serve together is ideal for this area. ASIA
Azerbaijan—Azeri, Turkish and Russian. Baku North University has given the Baha’i community of Azerbaijan the opportunity to present the Faith through a religious history course and is also offering courses in medicine, economics, law and “application informatics” to foreign students. They have offered language training in Russian and Turkish (Azeri) and a small tuition discount. The National Spiritual Assembly of Azerbaijan feels this is an excellent opportunity for youth pioneers.
Hong Kong—Cantonese, Mandarin and English. Wants “eager and capable youth to work alongside local youth.” Call the office of pioneering for further details.
Korea—Korean and English. “English-speaking young adults or youth who can devote full-time or part-time service are also needed. Students may register in universities or work part-time teaching
English. These pioneers can be of great service in teaching students in urban and rural areas, and in attracting Korean Bahd’is to teaching and other services.”
Macau—Cantonese, Mandarin, English and Portuguese. “Youth-year-of-service volunteers are sought to work on specific projects. The Spiritual Assembly is looking for someone to help establish its newly formed institute. Both Chinese- and English-speaking youth are needed to assist teachers at the School of the Nations.” Note: Call the office of pioneering about other vitally important service needs in Asia.
AUSTRALASIA
Cook Islands—Carolinian, English and Japanese. “Continuing efforts need to be made to inspire and train the local friends so they can assume responsibility for the ever-growing affairs of the Faith, and contribute to its advancement in every field. Longand short-term pioneers, traveling teachers and youth-year-of-service volunteers are needed to assist with this work.”
Marshall Islands—Marshallese and English. “The Baha’i community of the Marshall Islands has the high regard and support of the government. Most of the atolls and islands are now open to the Faith, and its influence on the daily lives of the Mar— shallese people has expanded. Long- and shortterm pioneers, traveling teachers and youth-yearof-service volunteers are needed to assist with deepening, consolidation and administration.”
New Caledonia and the Loyalty Islands—Kanak dialects and French. “Retired people, short-term pioneers and self-funding youth volunteers would be of great benefit to the community.”
Papua New Guinea—Pidgin and English. “There is a steady stream of new believers in Papua New Guinea and all districts have been opened to the Faith, including seven nearby islands. Short-term pioneers are needed...to assist with the establishment of a permanent teaching institute for the development of human resources and to support intensive teaching activities. ...In several areas of the country, youth-year-of-service volunteers would be of great assistance.”
Samoa—Samoan and English. There are several opportunities for Baha’i Youth Service Corps volunteers in Samoa. Call the Office of Pioneering for more information.
Vanuatu—Bislama, French and English. “As a result of the cultural exchange of Baha’ traditional chiefs...and the publicity generated by this event, unprecedented opportunities for the expansion of the Faith now exist. Short-term pioneers on threeto four-month visas are required in [several places including] Tanna, to assist with mass teaching, foster youth activities and children’s classes, and help with social and economic development projects.”
EUROPE
Belgium—French. “Young people are sought to work alongside Belgian youth in teaching campaigns that employ direct teaching methods.”
Bulgaria—Bulgarian and Turkish. Youth-year-ofservice opportunities beginning in July in conjunction with the European Baha’i Youth Council’s “Shaping Europe” teaching project and youth conferences.
Canary Islands—Spanish. “Having made significant advances in recent years, the Baha’i community of the Canary Islands stands poised for ac— celerated growth. Short-term youth pioneers to
Masa’it 8.€. 151 / December 12, 1994
19
Pictured are some of the friends at the Bahd’i
interest in outside ideas and in foreigners.
Bulgaria in the list of countries “Where there are
The American BanA't Subscription rates (For outside the continental United States ONLY)
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summer school in Bulgaria, August 1994.
Young Baha'i leaves ‘piece of her heart’ in Bulgaria after memorable teaching trip, summer school
Following are some of the reflections of traveling teacher Maryam Ta’eed who took part in the Baha'i summer school and while traveling and teaching in Bulgaria:
My traveling teaching trip to Bulgaria this summer was a rewarding and memorable experience for me. A piece of my heart has been left there forever.
Bulgarians are a wonderful blend of European and Middle Eastern cultures. They are a warm, generous, hospitable, curious people who seem to sense sincerity in others.
Bulgarians seem to value knowledge and learning highly. Bookstands can be found on every street and people take pride in their books and personal libraries.
The Bulgarian custom of sitting at outdoor cafes provides ample opportunity to connect with people and teach the Faith. Because of the new openness of Bulgarian society there is ample
Perhaps these are some of the reasons why the Universal House of Justice has included rapid spread of the Faith that must be urgently met.”
I believe that people all over the world, including Bulgaria, want to see for themselves how the Baha’i Faith has affected us as people and how it can affect them.
now especially fertile opportunities for the
assist local Baha’i youth in the teaching work are needed, as are Spanish-speaking short-term pio— neers or traveling teachers to conduct courses to help consolidate local communities.” Note: New opportunities beginning in July in conjunction with the European Baha’i Youth Council’s “Shaping Europe” teaching project and youth conferences.
Finland—Finnish and Swedish. “Finland is a highly developed country with a relatively small population. The young people and minorities are receptive to the Faith, as are people migrating from the former Soviet Union. The Lapps, or Sami, living in the north of Finland and the Gypsies in the south have been the focus of Baha’i teaching activities for many years.”
Greece—Greek. “The climate for teaching the Faith in Greece is changing. Recent teaching, projects attracted unprecedented numbers who demonstrated an openness to the Baha’i message. ..A significant number of long- and short-term pioneers, as well as traveling teachers and youthyear-of-service volunteers, are urgently needed. Pioneers who are students, those able to open a business, or those from countries of the European Community will find it easier to settle.”
Poland—Polish and German. “The Polish people are very receptive to the Message of Bahd’u’lléh, and the challenge is to raise up a sufficient number of teachers who have the capacity to bring large numbers of people into the Faith. Youth-year-ofservice volunteers could assist in developing and
expanding the small community of youth in Poland.” Note: New opportunities beginning in July in conjunction with the European Baha'i Youth Council’s “Shaping Europe” teaching project and youth conferences.
Portugal—Portuguese. “As the Portuguese youth have proven to be receptive during recent teaching activities, the community would benefit from receiving youth-year-of-service volunteers. These youth could assist the local Baha’i youth in spreading the Faith among their peers.” Note: New opportunities beginning in July in conjunction with the European Baha’i Youth Council’s “Shaping Europe” teaching project and youth conferences.
Russia, Georgia and Armenia, Ukraine, Belarus and Moldova. Youth-year-of-service opportunities beginning in July in conjunction with the European Baha’f Youth Council’s “Shaping Europe” teaching project and youth conferences.
.
Be among those to arise to answer the call to pioneer during the Three Year Plan! If you or your family have concerns about furthering your education or career, please see “Guidance on Pioneering and Education” in the Ala (March 2, 1994) edition of The American Baha'i or phone the Office of Pioneering. Contact your local Spiritual Assembly as your first starting point for consultation, guidance and information on the Baha’i Youth Service Corps. ‘
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lel rere ply dori PERSIAN TRANSLATION OF MAY 19, 1994 LETTER OF
‘THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE,
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we Byrne 4 Oleys INCREASE IN ARC CONTRIBUTIONS , NATIONAL FUND DEFICIT.
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THE AMERICAN Bana't : 22
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PROGRESS OF ARC PROJECT
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[Page 23]
in memoriam
Manny Reimer, devoted Green Acre stalwart, dies
Deeply saddened passing Emanuel Reimer. His wholehearted devotion, loving spirit, particularly as expressed in long years service Cause at Green Acre Baha'i School, memorable and exemplary. Kindly convey our loving sympathy members his family. Fervently praying Holy Shrines progress his radiant soul divine worlds.
The Universal House of Justice
October 30, 1994
The National Spiritual Assembly is deeply saddened by the passing of Emanuel Reimer. His devoted service to the Cause of Baha'u'llah, spanning over half a century, pro— vides an inspiring example of dedication, humility and selflessness. We recall in particular his long and fruitful association with Green Acre, “to the development of which he gave the unparalleled commitment of time, effort, material and spiritual support.”
We recall with tender affection the great respect and the many contributions of service and humor he made as a long-time delegate to our national Baha'i Conventions. Manny Reimer is loved by thousands of friends who will never forget his selfless concern for others, his modest effectiveness and his readiness to undertake any task
for the benefit of his worldwide “family.” His smile and his example will remain engraved upon our hearts as a constant reminder of our task to foster human happiness throughout the earth. We offer our loving condolences to his beloved Janet and to his cherished children, Michael, Daniel, Gloria and Terry. With heartfelt sympathy,
The National Spiritual Assembly
October 28, 1994 .
Emanuel M. (Manny) Reimer, a Baha'i for more than half a century whose exemplary services at the Green Acre Baha'i School and elsewhere were known and admired by the friends all over the world, died October 27 in Eliot, Maine. He was 81 years old.
Mr. Reimer, who first came to the Green Acre School in the summer of 1936 with a cousin, Marguerite Reimer (Sears), and while there declared his belief in Baha'u'llah when invited to do so by Dorothy Baker, returned to the school a number of times in the ensuing years, serving as a desk clerk and bookkeeper at the Sarah Farmer Inn in 1937, assistant manager of the school in 1946, caretaker/manager from 1947-50, caretaker/kitchen manager
Masa’it .€. 151 / DecemsBer 12, 1994
during the summer session in 1964, and caretaker/manager again from 1965-72.
In between, Mr. Reimer and his wife, Janet, to whom he was married in 1941, helped establish Assemblies in Green Bay, Wisconsin; Park Ridge, Illinois; and Mequon, Wisconsin, and Mr. Reimer served from 1960-63 as manager of the Davison (now Louhelen) Bahd'f School in Michigan.
Mr. Reimer was elected a delegate to the Baha'i National Convention each year from 1952-87.
In 1978, the Green Acre Baha'i School established the Reimer Award to recognize individuals who contribute outstanding services to the school.
Mr. Reimer, meanwhile, remained active, serving for six summers as cook at the Batterwood Baha'i School in Port Hope, Ontario, Canada.
Professionally, Mr. Reimer worked for School Administrative District No. 35, which includes Eliot and South Berwick, until his retirement in 1978, and began the district's hot lunch program. After retiring, he drove the senior citizens’ bus until the mid-1980s.
Mr. Reimer was active in the Eliot Lions Club (president in 1972), the Eliot Historical Society, the Police Boosters, and Friends of the Fogg
23
Emanual (Manny) Reimer
Library.
He and Mrs. Reimer celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary at the Green Acre School in 1991 (an occasion that included a video-taped tribute by the Hand of the Cause of God William Sears), and served this year as co-grand marshals of Eliot's Memorial Day and Festival Days parades.
Muriel Miessler, who pioneered for nearly half a century to Brazil, is dead
Muriel Miessler, a pioneer to Brazil since 1946, died in October. When she and her husband Edmund arrived at their pioneering post, there were only two local Assemblies in Brazil, the two of them opening a third locality.
During her nearly 50 years of service in Brazil, Mrs. Miessler watched the Faith grow to “thousands of friends in practically every small and large part of the country.”
HUQdaU'LLAH
Payments for Huqtiqu'llah should be made to “The Baha'i Huqdqu'llah Trust” and sent to one of the Trustees:
° Dr. Elsie Austin,, Silver Spring, MD 20901 (phone 301-589-8481).
¢ Dr. Amin Banani, , Santa Monica, CA 90402 (phone 310-3945449).
¢ Dr. Daryush Haghighi,
Rocky River, OH 44116 (phone 216333-1506).
Inquiries regarding Hu aqu'llah should be re erred to one of the Trustees or to the Office of the Sec— retariat, Baha'i Huqdqu'llah Trust, Rocky River, OH 44116.
Mrs. Miessler was elected to the first National Spiritual Assembly of Brazil in 1961 and continued to serve on that body for more than 20 years.
In 1968, Muriel and Edmund left Sao Paulo to settle in a goal state as homefront pioneers. They served together as traveling teachers to Portugal and the Azores.
When Edmund died in 1977, Muriel and her two children, Bob and Margot, continued to serve the Brazilian community. In 1986, Mrs. Miessler wrote her memoirs in a book entitled Pioneering in Brazil, an account of the growth and development of the Faith in that country.
Upon her passing, the National Spiritual Assembly of Bra following message to the National Assembly:
“With saddened hearts we inform you of the passing of Mrs. Muriel Miessler, dedicated pioneer and servant of the Blessed Beauty who for decades served the Faith in our country with joy and utmost dynamism. Her more than two decades of membership and service on our National Assembly will be forever remembered. Member of the first local Spiritual Assembly of Sao Paulo, the third Assembly elected in our country, Mrs. Miessler immortalized the services and sacrifices of the first pioneers who came to Brazil in her book, Pioneering in Brazil, among them herself and her husband, the late Edmund Miessler. We humbly beseech your prayers for the progress of that dear soul in all the worlds of God.”
col
Name Address
Name of school
Attention, Baha'i youth
Anew, dynamic and exciting teaching instrument is being created to help the “Army of Light” movement. It will enlist the services of legel-age youth (18-25) who will join summer activities and teaching
projects across the country. This new initiative will be coordinated by the National Baha'i Youth Workshop Office.
If you are interested in taking part, please come the following questionnaire and mail it to: Baha'i Youth Works! National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.
Telephone # where you can be reached
Will you be attending the Youth Conference in Phoenix, Arizona?
op Office, Baha'i
And from the Universal House of Justice:
“Saddened news passing much loved maidservant Baha'u'llah Muriel Miessler. Her nearly half century devoted services Brazil in both teaching and administrative fields unforgettable. Praying fervently progress her radiant soul worlds of God. Our heartfelt condolences to her family and many friends.”
Roshan Antilla Coon Rapids, MN October 6, 1994 Mitchell J. Berg, Coon Rapids, MN October 5, 1994 Ana Betancourt Pflugerville, TX October 28, 1994 Lula Mae Chandler
Hemingway, SC October 18, 1994
Donna Kahaloa Sumner, WA October 9, 1994
Anna Leverich San Mateo, CA September 13, 1994 Bonnie Park Fo October 4, ‘1994
Winona H. Reid Carrollton, GA September 10, 1994
Hazel L. Foster Emanuel Reimer
El Paso, TX Eliot, ME
October 22, 1994 October 27, 1994 Bill A. Harmon _ Abbas Sheikhzadeh Davenport, IA Austin, TX
July 10, 1994 November 2, 1994
Harry M. Irey Sally Underhill Davenport, IA Katy, TX April 1, 1994 October 9, 1994
Ranea Je'an Margaret Young Sacramento,CA Oceanside, CA July 24, 1994 September 13, 1994 Caleb Jefferson
Sumter, SC
August 1994
In September the Colorado Baha'i Youth Workshop was formed as a grassroots
initiative guided by the Auxiliary Board. Following the example set by Los Angeles
and other Youth Workshops, they hope to combine forces with local communities
and youth to advance the teaching plans. Through word of mouth alone, the workshop has already received several inquiries about possible future bookings.
Workshop members are (bottom row left to right) Bill Troxel, Laura Formeller, Kate
Formeller, Amelia Devine and Arghavan Rahimpour, and (top row left to right) Niya Lenzen, April Goggans and Katie McCloskey.
To avoid unnecessary delays in receiving The American Bahd't, MOVING? send all family members’ names, new address and mailing label to: TELL US YOUR Management Information Services, Basi National Cater, 1233 NEWIDDRESS Central St., Evanston, IL. 60201-1611. If acquiring a Post Office
3 ESS. | box, your residence address (c) must be filled in, Please allow 3 ‘weeks for processing. (This also updates National's data base.)
‘A. NAME(S): 1.
1D.# Tile 2)
1D.# Title 3. aan
iD Title 4, =
1D." Tile
B. NEW RESIDENCE ADDRESS: C. NEW MAILING ADDRESS:
~ P.O. Box or Other mailing address
‘Apartment # (If applicable) ‘Apartment # (If applicable)
City City
Sie Zip code Site Zip cole
D. NEW COMMUNITY: E, HOME TELEPHONE NUMBER:
Name of new Bahai Community ‘Moving date ‘Area code Phone number Name F. WORK TELEPHONE NUMBER(S): ‘Area code Phone number Name ‘Area code Phone number Name
| | | | | | | | I | | ~weeereaaes ares | | | | | I
| | |
| G. WE RECEIVE EXTRA COPIES BECAUS
1 [we do not have the same last name the last names and addresses on our
‘Wedonot wantextra copies, so please ‘daress labels donot match, We have | cancel the copy for the person(s) and LD. listedabove the full names ofall family mem [person bers as they should appear on the national
H. 1 WOULD LIKE A COPY:
LD. number and address above, records, their LD. numbers, and the correc ‘ tions so that we will receive only one copy.
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BAHA'f NATIONAL CENTER 112 Linden Avenue 60091
Wilmette, IL
Masa’i B.€. 151 / Decemser 12, 1994
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[7 Oumtiousetoid receives only onecopy | The American Bahd'.1 wish to receive my owncopy. Ihave listed my name,
DECEMBER
21-25: Classes by Dr. Riaz Ghadimi (in Persian) on Baha'i Life/Tablets of Baha'u'llah, plus Level Il Core Curriculum Training, and class on the practical application of Bahd'u'llah’s Tablets (in English) by Keith Christian Jenson, Bosch Baha’i School. For information, phone 408-423-3387.
23-26: 10th annual Grand Canyon Baha'i Conference, Hyatt Regency Hotel, Phoenix, Arizona. Guest speakers, entertainment, workshops, special classes for pre-youth. For hotel reservations, phone 800-359-7253 before December 10. For conference information, phone the GCBC hotline, 602-375-8082, from 7-9 p.m. Mountain time. Pre-registration is advised, as seating is limited during the main sessions and workshops.
27-January 1: “Challenges of the Present Hour,” Dr. Soheil Bushrui, who occupies the Baha'i Chair for World Peace at the University of Maryland, Bosch Baha’f School, plus social scientist Fred White on “Changing the American Character.” For information, write to t he school at 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, or phone 408-423-3387.
27-January 1: Winter School Session, “The Life of Baha'u'llah” and “Milestones to the Millennium,” Louhelen Baha'i School. For information, phone 810653-5033.
27-January 1: Annual mid-winter Regional Youth Conference, Cleveland,
Ohio. Theme: “...in the love of God a shining torch.” For information, contact the Youth Board of Greater Cleveland, c/o Jenkins, Cleveland, OH 44122, or phone 216-283-8526.
27-January 2: Forum ‘94 (fifth annual Forum for Young Professionals),
Landegg Academy, Wienacht, Switzerland. Theme: “The Role of the Aesthetic in a Global Society.” For more information: Landegg Academy, CH-9405 Wienacht/AR, Switzerland.
28-30: Second annual May Township Youth Conference, Wilder Forest Conference Center near St. Paul, Minnesota. Theme: “Living a Life of Service.” Youth ages 11-20 welcome. For information, write to Ken or Peggy McNamara,
Marine on St. Croix, MN 55047, or phone 612-4335089.
29-January 1: South Carolina Baha'i Winter School, Louis Gregory Institute, Hemingway. To register, phone 803-558-5093.
29-January 1: Louisiana Baha'i School, Fountainbleau State Park, Mandeville. Registrar: Nat West, 504-436-4958.
31-January 1: Deepening class on the Kitab-i-Aqdas (cover to cover), Dallas, * Texas, Baha'i Center, sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of University Park. Interactive session on major issues and questions conducted by Habib Riazati. For information, phone 214-361-9366.
JANUARY
5-8: College Club Weekend, organized by the Stanford College Club, Bosch Baha’ School. For information, phone 408-423-3387. 7-8: Regional Public Information Meeting, Los Angeles, California. Contact
Corps/Pioneer Training Institute and Program ching Areas (SITA), Bosch Baha'i School, Santa
by invitation. For information, phone the Office of Pioneering, Baha'i National Center, 708-733-3508.
13-15: Colorado East Winter School, YMCA of the Rockies, Estes Park, Contact John Bolz, Lafayette, CO 80026 (phone 303-666-9275).
14-15: Regional Public Information Meeting, Seattle, Washington. Contact Cindy Roat, 206-632-7645.
14-16; Illinois Baha’i School, Best Western Hotel, Springfield. Contact Pej Clark, 1188 W. Sunset, Decatur, IL 62522 (phone 217-423-9788).
20-22: Rendezvous of t he Soul Weekend, Ruhi-style Youth Deepeni Hmong /Cambodian/English-speaking youth from northern Californii Baha’ School. For information, phone 408-423-3387.
20-23: Regional (Eastern /Southern) Baha'i Youth Workshop Training Conference, Louis G. Gregory Baha'i Institute. Conducted by Oscar DeGruy for Workshop coordinators, Assembly members, young adults and interested parents. For information, contact Sofia Berhane, LGBI, Hemingway, SC 29554 (phone 803-558-5093).
27-29: Conference, “Women in Baha'i Perspective,” Baha'i National Center, Wilmette, Illinois. To register, contact Lynnea Prochnow, Research Office, Bahd’f National Center (phone 708-733-3548; fax 708-733-3563; Internet,
27-29: Assembly Team Development Weekend, Bosch Baha'i School. For information, phone 408-423-3387.
28-29: Regional Public Information Meeting, Dallas, Texas. Contact Kambiz Rafraf, 214-248-8178.
FEBRUARY
3-5: Seekers’ Weekend, Bosch Baha'i School. Special price for the weekend: $50 for each seeker, the same for Baha'is who bring seekers. For Baha'is who come without seekers, the cost is $100. For information, phone 408-423-3387.
3-5: Junior Youth Institute, Louhelen Baha'{ School. For information, phone 810-653-5033.
3-5: Conference, “Equality of Women and Men in the Family and Community,” Brighton Creek Conference Center, McKenna, Washington. Sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Olympia. To register, phone Ellen Atkinson, 206-352 3605.
4-5: Regional Public Information Meeting: Washington, D.C.
10-12: Black History Celebration, Bosch Baha'f School, with Robin Evans, Dr. Gloria Haithman-Ali, Dr. George Hill, others. For information, phone 408-4233387 or fax 408-423-7564.
17-19: Marriage Enrichment Conference, Louhelen Baha'i School. For information, phone 810-653-5033.
