The American Bahá’í/Volume 25/Issue 9/Text

←Previous

The American Bahá’í Volume 25, Issue 9

Next→

Return to PDF view Proofread once

[Page 1]

Testimony urges treaty ratification

The National Spiritual Assembly presented testimony May 11 at a hearing in Washington before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in support of U.S. ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination.

The testimony was presented on behalf of the National Spiritual Assembly by its secretary-general, Robert C. Henderson.

Dr. Henderson appeared as part of a public panel whose other members were Wade Henderson, director, Washington bureau, NAACP; Father Robert F. Drinan, S.J., professor of law, Georgetown University, American Bar Association; and William T. Lake, partner in the law firm of Wilmer, Cutler & Pickering and member of the Board of Directors, International Human Rights Law Group.

They were preceded by an administration panel that included the Hon. John Shattuck, assistant secretary for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor of the State Department; the Hon. Conrad K. Harper, legal adviser of the State Department; and the Hon. Deval L. Patrick, assistant attorney general, Civil Rights Division of the Justice Department.

The Race Convention establishes an international legal standard that prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity or national origin in all aspects of public life including the political, economic, social and cultural arenas. It guarantees equality before the law with respect to the enjoyment of rights in these areas.

The Convention also creates an institutional mechanism, the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, to promote the realization of this universal standard.

In May 1992, the National Spiritual Assembly's office in Washington had invited representatives of interested organizations to form a working group to organize NGO (non-governmental organization) support for ratification. The working group included representatives from the American Bar Association, the International Human Rights Law Group, Amnesty International, the Lawyers' Committee for Human Rights, and the NAACP.

Robert C. Henderson (right), secretary-general of the National Assembly, faces the Senate Foreign Relations Committee alongside (from left) Wade Henderson, NAACP; William T. Lake, representing the International Human Rights Law Group; and Father Robert F. Drinan, representing the American Bar Association.

Portrait of Báb displayed during 150th observance

Some wept quietly. Some beamed with pleasure. Others were pensive.

But everyone was moved by the sight of a portrait of the Báb, displayed in the Auditorium of the Bahá’í House of Worship on May 22 during the sesquicentennial observance of His momentous Declaration.

The approximately 1,000 participants had filed out of Foundation Hall and ascended the exterior stairs to the auditorium in two lines. Group by group, they stepped onto a Persian rug upon which a table and two stands of candles had been placed.

In the center of the table was the ornately framed portrait, last publicly viewed in 1944 when the Bahá’í Era entered its second century.

Once everyone was seated, the Bahá’í House of Worship Choir directed by Tom Price performed "O God, My God," "Is There Any Remover of Difficulties," "God Is Sufficient Unto Me," and "Whither Can A Lover Go."

The Tablet of Visitation then was recited in English and chanted in Arabic.

Earlier, in Foundation Hall, the overflow audience—many of whom viewed the proceedings via closed-circuit television in the Visitors' Center—was transported back to 1844 Shiraz. Through the words of Nabil, they experienced the pivotal moment in which the young merchant of Shiraz revealed His mission to Mullá Husayn.

And through the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Shoghi Effendi and the Báb Himself, they gained a greater appreciation for the Station of this Herald of the Faith.

The singing of "Thou Art But One Step Away" from The Hidden Words completed the downstairs program, and it was time to move upstairs.

To end the evening, refreshments were served in the Visitors' Center and the children presented to members of the National Spiritual Assembly special cards they had made to commemorate the occasion.—Tom Mennillo

Those who could not get in to Foundation Hall for the Declaration of the Báb observance watched the proceedings from closed-circuit television monitors in the Visitors' Center.

Vision in Action

'Spiritual meetings' help spread Cause. A journey of the spirit to Belarus Quick action earns Faith public notice Be magazine connects Bahá’í youth Legacy of Bertha Hyde Kirkpatrick Who is Bahá’u’lláh? [Page 2]

Letter from the National Teaching Committee

'Spiritual meetings' help spread the Cause of God

(This is the latest in a series of open letters to our fellow believers centering on aspects of the NTC's "Model for Expansion and Consolidation," published in The American Bahá’í earlier this year and recently sent to every Bahá’í community in Vision in Action, a booklet which also includes the statement and compilation on entry by troops from the Universal House of Justice.)

Dearly loved friends,

Every believer has had the experience of being in some Bahá’í gathering and feeling the power of the Holy Spirit that stirs and unites the hearts of all the participants. The sessions at the World Congress held in New York were premier examples of such an experience. Were we able to capture that spirit and share it with friends and seekers the American Bahá’í community would be able to greatly accelerate the process of entry by troops in our country, where so many people are starving for spiritual nourishment.

It is for this reason that the National Teaching Committee has stressed the importance of meetings where the friends can gather with seekers, where all can feel and be uplifted by the spirit of Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation. These occasions, which may include prayers, music, fellowship, talks and readings from the Divine Word, can generate tremendous spiritual power and have a transforming impact on the hearts of all who attend them.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá often urged the believers to hold such gatherings, which He sometimes referred to as "spiritual meetings." They are distinct from the Nineteen Day Feast, which is open to Bahá’ís only, as well as from firesides, which are held by individual believers with their personal contacts. In the spiritual meetings, groups of people can come together to worship God in "unity and concord," where circumstances "will be conducive to changing strangers into friends" and "enemies into associates" (Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 553).

The following passages from the master's Writings shed further light on this concept (the quotations are from the compilation, Bahá’í Meetings/The Nineteen Day Feast, from the section on Bahá’í meetings):

"You have written concerning the spiritual meetings. The foundation of the spiritual meetings must be the teaching and delivering of the Cause of God. In these meetings the believers and maid-servants of the Merciful must proclaim the proofs and arguments and explain the signs of the appearance of the Beauty of Abhá—may my life be a sacrifice to the beloved ones! Meanwhile they may read some Tablets and Communes, and at the end of the meetings, if they desire to sing with the utmost supplication and meekness, it is acceptable. But the fundamental principle of the establishment of spiritual meetings is for the sake of teaching and delivering the Truth so that those souls who are present may become informed of the Divine Evidence and Proofs."

"It befitteth the friends to hold a gathering, a meeting, where they shall glorify God and fix their hearts upon Him, and read and recite the holy writings of the Blessed Beauty—may my soul be the ransom of His lovers! The lights of the All-Glorious Realm, the rays of the Supreme Horizon, will be cast upon such bright assemblages....These spiritual gatherings must be held with the utmost purity and consecration, so that from the site itself, and its earth and the air about it, one will inhale the fragrant breathings of the Holy Spirit."

"Thou has written concerning the meetings and gathering places of the believers of God. Such assemblies and gatherings will greatly aid the promotion of the Word and all the audience, whether friends or not, will become affected. But when the friends have the intention of entering into these meetings they must disengage the heart from all other reflections, ask the Inexhaustible Divine confirmation, and with the utmost devotion and humility set their feet in the gathering place. Let them not introduce any topic in the meeting except the mentioning of the True One, neither must they confuse that merciful assembly with complex outside questions. They must....either commune or supplicate and pray to God, either read Tablets or give out advices and exhortations."

"Thou hast written in regard to the Sunday meeting, saying that it is established in the utmost of love. Undoubtedly you must be firm in holding it, and on the day of meeting sing such anthem and melody in the glorification and praise of Bahá’u’lláh that you may cause a tumult in that city—so that everyone may hear the Call of God and may obtain a new spirit through the soul-refreshing zephyr which is being wafted from the rose garden of the Covenant."

"Therefore, this meeting is blessed. But if it is firmly established and become constant, it will bring forth great results and most weighty developments will be attained. Consequently, persevere ye in renewing your meetings and display utmost magnanimity in firmness and steadfastness. When the root of the tree of the garden is well established and its protection is safeguarded, it will bring forth luscious fruits.

"Likewise, when the regiment of an army and individuals of a cohort are united and related with ease, untold triumphs will be acquired. But if they come together one day and disperse another day, no fruits will be produced.

"Therefore, as ye have prepared an army of heaven and become the host of life, ye must continue to hold meetings, have spiritual communications, be firm in resolution, steadfast in purpose and be constant and persevering so that ye may win celestial conquest."

‘Abdu’l-Bahá thus described gatherings that were intensely spiritual while also allowing seekers the opportunity for clear and direct information about the coming of the Promised One.

Shoghi Effendi echoed this idea in advice given to an individual believer, explaining the attention that we can pay to the particular needs of the seekers: "In some places the Bahá’ís have held meetings for prayer....As we have such wonderful prayers and meditations in our writings, the reading of these with friends who are interested in and crave for this type of small meeting is often a step toward attracting them to the Faith...." (From a letter dated February 4, 1956, written on behalf of the Guardian)

It is important that meetings should be customized to local needs and conditions, especially in areas where people are accustomed to worshiping God in a certain way. Bahá’ís can provide any reasonable avenue for seekers to enjoy the spirit of the Faith in a manner that is compatible with principle and suited to their needs.

For example, some cultures value music as an important part of their devotional approach. Bahá’í meetings can include music. If the recitation of prayer is important, that can be done. If story-telling is preferred, that too can be accommodated. The Bahá’í Faith allows for a rich expression of all cultural forms in worship; therefore our spiritual meetings can express this diversity, speaking especially to the population we are trying to reach. If we create atmospheres for seekers that show the true spirit of love and unity, manifesting a sincere appreciation for many forms of expression, the result will prove irresistibly attractive.

A number of communities in the United States have initiated regular spiritual gatherings, and virtually all of them have experienced victories in teaching as a result. The most successful ones have been undertaken as one activity in a many-faceted teaching plan, complementing other efforts such as firesides, public talks, media campaigns, socials and race unity events, in which all of the believers work in harmony to present the Faith to the community at large. Together these coordinated programs serve the social, intellectual and spiritual needs of the populations the friends are trying to reach.

For example, in Palm Beach County, Florida, a number of seekers were found through proclamation activities and participation in non-Bahá’í activities related to race unity. The believers arranged firesides for these seekers. At a certain point, the seekers expressed a desire to attend Bahá’í worship meetings.

The only meeting for worship in the community at the time was the Feast, which could not fill this need. Also, the communities in Palm Beach County were rather small. Therefore, at the town meetings held in the beginning of the Three Year Plan, the friends decided to hold a once-per-month spiritual gathering supported by all communities in the county to meet the spiritual needs of Bahá’ís and non-Bahá’ís.

The meetings were planned for the first Sunday of each month. Each meeting is held from 9:30-noon and includes a half-hour of social time; 45 minutes of prayer, reading from the writings, and music; a 15-minute break; then one hour of study classes for adults and children. Bahá’ís and seekers can attend all or part of the gatherings.

The first meeting, held last September, was attended by 60 people, including 20 non-Bahá’ís; five of the seekers who had been investigating the Faith became Bahá’ís in the month following the first gathering. Spiritual meetings have been held every month since, with attendance ranging from 35 to 100.

Many seekers and believers who were previously inactive came to the meetings, which have breathed a new spirit into the communities. About 10 new Assemblies were formed in the county in the first year of the Plan. At the most recent meeting, attended by 100 people, the Florida Bahá’í Youth Workshop performed and attracted the attention of a non-Bahá’í television personality, who is making arrangements to have the Workshop perform on her show.

This is only one example and one style of spiritual meeting that can be developed by the believers in their communities to meet their local needs. We hope that the friends everywhere will incorporate regular spiritual gatherings into their efforts for enkindling humanity with the love of the Blessed Beauty.

With loving Bahá’í greetings,

The National Teaching Committee

June 1994 [Page 3]

Three Year Plan

TRANSFORMATION AND GROWTH 3YB YEAR PLAN 1993-1996 MISSION 19 (5 MONTHS TO GO!)

U.S. Bahá’í Community Current Goals and Status Rahmat 151 June 24, 1994

TEACHING

HOMEFRONT TRAVEL GOALS Goal: 3,000 Completed: 3,586

HOMEFRONT PIONEER GOALS Goal: 500 Completed: 521

INT'L PIONEER, TRAVEL GOALS Goal: 2,000 Completed: 2,005

THE FUND

(Preliminary, May 31, 1994)

FOUR MAJOR FUNDS Goal for 151 B.E.: $25,000,000 Contributions to Date: $903,955

NATIONAL FUND: $713,362

INTERNATIONAL FUND From Nat'l Bahá’í Fund: $83,333 Earmarked Dollars: $16,896 Total Contributions: $100,229

ARC PROJECTS FUND From Nat'l Bahá’í Fund: $214,065 Earmarked Dollars: $164,886 Total Contributions: $378,951

CONTINENTAL FUND From Nat'l Bahá’í Fund: $10,000 Earmarked Dollars: $8,811 Total Contributions: $18,811

ARMY OF LIGHT ON THE MARCH!

Youth from all over the nation are arising to teach the Faith in ever increasing numbers. Communities are supporting them by arranging teaching projects as a framework for their activities. With the support of these communities, the Army of Light will assist and augment the local teaching effort and help carry it to a new level of activity. For more information, call any of the projects listed below, or the Regional Coordinators listed at the bottom.

Grass Valley, CA: Joelle Goodwin 916/477-7982 El Dorado County, CA: Debbra Clark 916/621-2123 Red Bluff, CA: Jan Mariano-Lopez 916/529-5856 Tiburon, CA: Dawn and Forest Patton 415/435-0110 William Sears Hearts Afire: Chris Tara-Browne 415/431-9990 Utah Teaching Projects: Dale Marxen 801/485-6601 Clarkdale, AZ: Mary O'Neal 602/634-8102 Yuma County, AZ: Joan-Marie Johnson 502/726-1205 Proyecto Ensenanza Teresita: Avid Navidi 602/934-5485 Akka Project: Norris Cunningham 602/934-5485 Tempe, AZ: Karen English 602/961-4241 Lighting the Eternal Flame: David Gilpatrick 602/497-5706 Guadalupe, AZ: Barbara Clements 602/897-7987 Chandler, AZ: Jolyon Clarke 602/732-9597 Gallup, NM: Tamra Eaton 502/722-0112 Light of the Valley: Rosanne Groger 502/722-3315 Las Cruces, NM: Laura Clayton 505/521-0166 Albuquerque, NM: 505/527-4044 St Petersburg Teaching Project: 505/256-7934 Magdalene Carney Teaching Inst.: 505/294-7922 Birmingham and Jasper, AL: 813/526-2318 Florence, Conway, Kingstree, SC: 407/687-5016 Youth Fireside Teaching: 205/838-3028 Clarksville, TN: 803/248-5903 Franklin Township, NJ: Chris and Jenni Mileham 704/254-7432 Boston, MA: Alison McGee 615/395-7452 Mass Teaching in New Hampshire: Susan Crossley 609/924-3459 Phelps County, MO: David Dean 609/924-3459 Heart of the Heartland: Phil or Joan Tussing 603/924-4224 Minneapolis, MN: Bruce and Sandy Palmberg 314/364-0845 May Brown Summer Youth Project: Marlene Ebert 317/462-7629 Seminole County, OK: David Ingham 612/823-9074 Emancipation Proclamation Parade: 913/233-7442 Time for Transformation: Shawn Khavari 405/273-3914 Leroy loas Project: Phil Wood 316/662-1993 William Sears Hearts Afire: Kevin and Janina Barnes 303/282-8166 Woodburn Project: Connie Crabb 702/972-6527 Eliot, ME: Rachel Greco 503/623-8035 Manchester, CT: Jan House 503/678-5162 New York City and the Bronx: Linda Munhall Amherst, NY: Layli Garrigues Lawrenceville, NJ: Elin Griffith Ithaca, NY: Barbara McCord Providence, RI: Marcia Lample Wilmington, DE: Lisa McDowell Charlottesville, VA: Greg Kintz Loudoun County, VA: Regional Coordinator Howard County, MD: Regional Coordinator Silver Springs, MD: Regional Coordinator Herndon, VA: Regional Coordinator Bel Aire, MD: Regional Coordinator National Coordinator: Jim Hinegardner

The coordinators for the Army of Light Summer Youth Project are as follows:

National Coordinator: Dorita Krapf WI, IL, MI-UP: Sandra Fair 815/478-3132, 414/871-9919 NC, SC, GA, FL: Vance Remick 919/968-0900 KS, NE, ND, SD: Marcell LaVine 913/831-2339 ME, NH, VT, CT, MA, RI: David Dean 609/924-3459 NJ, PA, NY, DE: John Homan, Jr 215/997-6075 CO, WY, MT, ID, UT: Doug Hartman 303/635-9424 MI, IN, OH, KY: Janet Lyon 216/691-9540 DC, VA, WV, MD: Laura Cessna 804/229-1410, Navid Haghighi 703/406-2151 AZ, NM, CA, NV: May Movafagh 602/963-4798 IA, MN, MO: Mary McDowell 319/556-1982 OK, TX: Andrenea King 409/886-4853 TN: Alison McGee 615/395-7452 AL: Lisa McDowell 205/838-3028 OR, WA: Rachel Greco 503/623-8035

TOTAL ENROLLMENTS

Three Year Plan to date ...... 2,389 May ...... 217 [Page 4]

A Journey of the Spirit

My recent three-week traveling teaching trip to Belarus, a small, newly independent republic of the former Soviet Union located in Eastern Europe, was accomplished in the physical realm by a round-trip flight. The journey of my spirit, on the other hand, was a one-way trip. From here on, there's no turning back from where I've been!

Despite being a Bahá’í for eight years before I left for Belarus, I never felt "qualified" to say much about the Faith, especially with much deep conviction. It was as though my faith in Bahá’u’lláh was only a kind of personal solace that was difficult to share with others.

As an international traveling teacher, I was given the opportunity to change this. Suddenly being treated as a "celebrity" was quite overwhelming. I realized that many of the local Bahá’ís in my host country felt just like I did at home—not qualified to speak. The only reason I was in the spotlight was because I was the foreigner, not because I knew any more about the Faith than they did.

As I arrived at pre-arranged public meetings where I would speak, I worried that the energy and inspiration would not come. Despite my sleep-deprived state, I found that the right thoughts, actions and words just came—not from me but through me.

One of the many things I reflected on during the trip was the extent to which I truly embrace the Writings regarding the aid promised to those who leave their home to teach the Faith. One example is this passage from the Writings of the Báb: "Issue forth from your cities, O peoples of the West, and aid God ere the day when the Lord of mercy shall come down unto you in the shadow of the clouds with the angels circling round Him...."

The only reason I went to Belarus, which is still contaminated by the Chernobyl nuclear accident and not exactly a "hot" vacation spot, was to teach the Faith. My experiences there were also confirmed by the words of Bahá’u’lláh: "The movement itself from place to place, when undertaken for the sake of God, hath always exerted, and can now exert, its influence in the world. In the books of old the station of them that have voyaged far and near in order to guide the servants of God hath been set forth and written down."

While I experienced considerable discomfort on my trip, I perceived tremendous spiritual wealth in the people of Belarus. At first the rapid declaration of seekers was surprising to me. After a while it became a natural, not unusual, response to Bahá’u’lláh’s great gift to mankind.

It is widely accepted that our results are often tied to our expectations. After my teaching trip, I have come to expect this reaction to Bahá’u’lláh’s healing Medicine. This was one of the most valuable acquisitions of my trip. To bring this expectation back to the U.S., where it is generally felt that receptivity to the Faith is not as great as in other parts of the world, has transformed the way I teach the Faith in my day-to-day life. People really are more open to hearing about Bahá’u’lláh because I now tell them in a way that expects this reaction.

If you have never served as an international traveling teacher, as I had never done, I hope you will be inspired to go. Such trips, even for only a few weeks, have far-reaching effects not just in the receiving country, but in your own community when you return home.

Always remember that "He whom the grace of Thy mercy aideth, though he be but a drop, shall become the boundless ocean, and the merest atom which the outpouring of Thy loving-kindness assisteth, shall shine even as the radiant star."—Shelly Saunders

Summertime a great time for traveling, attending events in countries around world

June 15-Sept. 15: CROATIA AND SLOVENIA’s "Istria Sunshine Project" under the auspices of the regional teaching committee for Croatia and Slovenia, which writes: "It seems that many of our Bahá’í friends in other countries have been reluctant to serve in Croatia in the past few years due to their concern about the [political] conditions....The area of Croatia that the project will be in is very safe. It is also beautiful and most importantly, the population is receptive."

June 15-Aug. 1: Summer camps in Siberia, RUSSIA. The National Spiritual Assembly of Canada and the Regional Spiritual Assembly of Russia, Georgia and Armenia have collaborated on this exciting educational project which urgently needs Bahá’í teachers of "Religions of the World and their impact on morality," "Puppetry combined with English and morality," "Folk dances of the world," "Camping/survival skills," and "First Aid/CPR."

July: Summer teaching project in MONGOLIA. Details forthcoming.

July 28-Aug. 13: The "Jolly Viking Project: Conquering the "FAROE ISLANDS." Work with the friends from the United Kingdom, Iceland, Denmark, Norway and other countries to increase the human resources of the Faith in this beautiful land, and move toward establishing a National Spiritual Assembly for the Faroe Islands.

Aug. 9-15: 1994 summer school of HUNGARY. Topics to include: The Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh, Spiritual Transformation, Entry by Troops. Guest speakers to include Counselor Louis Hénuzet. "Beautifully located on lake Balaton, some 150 km from Budapest, offering a wide variety of free-time activities and sports." Cost: $200/person/week.

Aug. 15: International conference for educators, Shenzhen, CHINA.

Sept. 15-24: Sixth International Research Conference on Housing in Beijing, CHINA. Sponsored by the Urban Studies Institute of China. Themes: Housing and Public Policies, Housing and Quality of Life, Sociology of Housing, and more. Papers requested.

Sept. 19-21: International Symposium on "Family Beyond the Year 2000" in Moscow, RUSSIA. Sponsored by 10 Russian institutions including the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Russia in recognition of the United Nations Year of the Family. The symposium is depending on the international participation of "Bahá’í family experts." Summaries of papers for short presentations on various subjects needed immediately. Traveling teaching before and/or after the symposium encouraged.

Sept. 29-Oct. 3: First International Women’s Conference in Kishinev, MOLDOVA (newly independent Eastern European republic). Theme: "Women, Spirituality and Family." Conférence languages: English, Romanian, Russian, French.

Oct. 16-19: International Symposium on Miao (Hmong) Culture, Economy, Trade, Communication and Cooperation, Jishou, CHINA.

Sept. 4-15, 1995: United Nations fourth World Conference on Women: Action for Equality, Development, Peace. Beijing, CHINA.

Summer opportunities for youth

June 10-Aug. 1: Summer camps in Eastern Siberia, Russia. The National Spiritual Assembly of Canada and the Regional Spiritual Assembly of Russia, Georgia and Armenia have collaborated on a project to hold a total of four sessions at two summer camps in Russia. Service-oriented youth age 17 and above with experience working with children are needed as counselors.

July: Summer teaching project in Mongolia. Details forthcoming.

July 9-Aug. 7: Dr. Muhájir Teaching Project, Grenada. Four weeks teaching in villages around the island. Cost of $410 U.S. per person covers housing, food and transportation in Grenada.

July 10-Aug. 26: European Bahá’í Youth Council's "Shaping Europe: The Mission of This Generation" summer teaching project and teaching conferences in Russia, Romania, United Kingdom, Spain and Germany.

July 10-17: Kralsava Unity Festival, Latvia. Culmination of three weeks of teaching activities in Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia through the Baltic States' "Martha Root Project."

July 20-25: Regional Youth Conferences in Germany, Spain, Russia, Romania, and the United Kingdom through the European Bahá’í Youth Council's "Shaping Europe" project.

July 24-27, July 27-Aug. 2: Latin American Bahá’í Youth Conference and Global Youth Forum, Brasilia, Brazil. The government of Brazil as well as several United Nations agencies will invite a select group of youth to the main forum. A parallel forum focusing on a wide range of topics relating to the issue of sustainable development, and including an Ecological Fair, will be held during the same dates.

July 26-Aug. 26: One month of youth teaching work all over Europe including Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, Romania, Russia, Spain, Ukraine and the United Kingdom.

Aug. 28-31: "Youth Prospects 2000 Choices and Voices" international conference in Singapore sponsored by FUNDEX of Singapore and the United Nations Educational, Social and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). "Young men and women from diverse backgrounds from all corners of the world" invited.

December: International Youth Conference in South Africa to evaluate progress at the mid-point of the Three Year Plan.

Begin planning to go now! Many youth from several countries including the U.S. are already signed up. Contact your local Spiritual Assembly for forms and initial information, and then the Office of Pioneering at 708-733-3508 (fax 708-733-3509) for specific details of these projects. [Page 5]

Summer’s here—and where are the Bahá’ís?

Where do the Bahá’ís go each summer? That’s the question the National Spiritual Assembly faces as the summer months begin.

Summer is the season when the big teaching campaigns hit their stride, with a ready resource of participants. Summer is the time when the community’s various building projects hit their peak. So where does the money to pay for all this go?

Each summer Fund contributions slide downward, sometimes as much as 40 percent! And yet this is the time of peak expenses for the institutions of the Cause. The results? Borrowing. Increased interest costs. Sleepless nights in the Office of the Treasurer, wondering if there will be enough money to meet the payroll.

In other words, a deep hole out of which we must struggle during the fall, putting the National Spiritual Assembly on the defensive instead of at the head of an accelerating pace of growth.

The good news This past year the Bahá’í community responded in an exemplary way to the challenge issued by the National Spiritual Assembly to meet a looming financial shortfall. Unlike earlier years, however, there were few stories of extraordinary sacrifice—emptied bank accounts, cashed savings bonds and the like—and many stories of the friends changing their lifestyles to rise to the occasion.

There was the six-year-old who, because “Mommy told me when the Arc is built there will be peace,” gave his “tooth money.” There was the 81-year-old believer who gave more than half of the money saved for her funeral to the National Fund. And there were the three Midwestern families who banded together to give one $9,000 “unit” for the Arc, and whose giving generally increased.

The point is that the breadth and nature of the response shows that it is sustainable. We began late in the game; at the end of the year, although the National Spiritual Assembly was not able fully to eliminate the deficit, we did show what we can do when we choose to do so.

Had giving in the first half of last year reached the pace we set in the second half, our offerings for the four major Funds would have surpassed $18 million! And it would have come fairly easily!

Maintain or Increase Which do we want this year: a last-minute, last-ditch effort to break even, or a mature response that paves the way for future growth and achievement? What can we do right now?

Here are three suggestions to help keep the momentum going:

(1) Increase our numbers, and the number of givers, through teaching and deepening. Recent information suggests that there is still a time lag of more than 18 months before a new believer gives to one or more of the Funds. For our teaching to provide the “thousandfold” increase mentioned by the Guardian, new recruits must know that this is their Faith and that we all are the ones who “pay the bills.”

(2) Work toward universal participation by Assemblies and Groups. Last year, 36 percent of Assemblies met their contribution goals to the Bahá’í National Fund, while only 303 Assemblies made no contributions—a good step forward but far short of universal participation.

(3) Enroll in the Automatic Contribution System (ACS). The regularity of this stream of income is an enormous help to the National Spiritual Assembly, and, indeed, to all of the Funds, since these contributions can be earmarked too. Growing subscriptions to this important program will go a long way toward leveling out the seasonal shifts that can stop us dead in the water.

Why are these issues important? We have an incredible mission that will directly affect the lives of millions of people and generations yet unborn. Bahá’u’lláh has stressed repeatedly that the progress of the Faith depends on material means.

It is well and good to suggest that the local or National Assembly make some effort or start some program, but when we make that suggestion we should be ready to pay the cost; the funds do not simply appear. We are all in this together. As we were reminded in the most recent Ridván letter from the Universal House of Justice, it is the individual Bahá’í who holds the key to victory.

Article on Chase Memorial in January issue contained inaccuracies, omissions

An article reprinted from The Los Angeles Bahá’í Journal in the January 19, 1994, issue of The American Bahá’í contains inaccuracies and omissions.

The following corrected information on the Thornton Chase monument in Inglewood, California, was provided by the Spiritual Assembly of Inglewood and the Thornton Chase Committee:

The monument, to date, has cost $26,000. Contributions were sent from Bahá’ís all over the United States and from Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum.

The black granite was specially ordered from India and is engraved with gold lettering.

The architect who conceived and designed the monument was Arsalan Mottahedin of Beverly Hills, California.

The dedication and unveiling of the monument coincided with the annual memorial service for Thornton Chase last September 26.

Before this monument was erected, the grave was adorned with a 3- by 5-foot stone “commissioned” by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá when He was in Inglewood in 1912. Also, there were two benches, a boxwood hedge, a wrought iron fence around the gravesite, and two tall cypress ‎treees trees‎.

A letter has been sent to all Assemblies, Groups and isolated believers in the 11 western states (as listed in the Tablets of the Divine Plan) soliciting an appropriate quotation on teaching to be carved on the back of the monument.

Left photo: Marguerite Sears, “interviewed” by Jack McCants, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly, recounts stories of her late husband, the Hand of the Cause of God William Sears. Center: Vocalist Carla Baker entertains the audience. Right: The Florida Bahá’í Youth Workshop performs for the Family Reunion.

Bahá’í ‘Family Reunion’ in Pompano Beach features food, fun, fellowship, musical fireside, 15 declarations—and 27,500 hugs!

What’s a family reunion without food, fellowship and fun?

The Bahá’í Family Reunion, held April 29-May 2 in Pompano Beach, Florida, had all of the above—and an estimated 27,500 hugs.

More than 550 Bahá’ís and guests took part in the third statewide get-together (the next will be three years hence in Orlando) of current, former and “wanna-be” Floridians.

And when the last family members had loaded up and headed home, they left in their wake 15 declarations and $25,200 raised for the Arc Projects Fund.

Of course, they also took with them many memories:

• observance of the ninth Day of Ridván;
• Marguerite Sears relating events from her life with the late Hand of the Cause of God William Sears;
• performances by all five chapters of the Florida Bahá’í Youth Workshop, the Florida Bahá’í Gospel Choir, and vocalists Carla Baker and Fred Johnson;
• a Persian tea party in a room complete with carpets, antique furniture, samovars, and dancers;
• speakers such as National Spiritual Assembly member Dorothy Nelson on “The Equality of Women and Men,” Auxiliary Board member Jack Guillebeaux and Fafar Guillebeaux on “Personal Transformation,” U.S. Bahá’í United Nations representative Rebequa Getahoun Murphy on “1994, the International Year of the Family,” and Janice Smith of the Bahá’í International Community on “The Paradigm Shift”;
• a musical fireside play entitled “The Hidden Treasure,” featuring National Spiritual Assembly member Jack McCants—moustache and all—playing the grandfather;
• a bazaar featuring 19 Bahá’í artists and representatives of the Bahá’í Distribution Service;
• children’s activities including a treasure hunt, games and learning about the attributes of God and the principles of the Faith;
• a family album of photographs from past Florida summer schools and other events, including the second Bahá’í World Congress;
• a genuine “American picnic” for more than 300 people.

And, since this was Florida, dawn prayers at the beach. [Page 6]

A Theory of Almost Everything

A Scientific and Religious Quest for Ultimate Answers by Robert Barry HC $18.95

The much-vaunted grand unified theory will not be found through science alone, argues Barry, but in a synthesis of physics, psychology, and religion. Searching for this "theory of everything," Barry takes the reader on a fascinating exploration of such complexities as the nature of reality and the purpose of life, using the insights provided by psychological theory and quantum physics to paint a compelling new picture of the universe and our place in it.

6" x 9-1/2", 208pp., desiderata, contents, Introduction, notes, bibliography, Index Oneworld Publications

The Multicultural Planet

edited by Ervin Laszlo SC $17.95

Under the aegis of UNESCO, a group of independent experts from around the world has come together to produce The Multicultural Planet, a work that begins the process of investigating humanity's cultural diversity and the implications this has for our future.

As well as addressing the general problem of the balance between unity and diversity, and stressing the commonality of human experience, this important book discusses each of the world's major cultures in detail, celebrates their distinctive features and considers the specific questions of cultural interrelationships that affect each of them.

5-3/4" x 8-1/2", 206pp., contents, foreword, Introduction Oneworld Publications

Calendars of the World

A Look at Calendars and the Ways We Celebrate by Margo Westrheim SC $11.95

Full of amazing facts and a wealth of detail, Calendars of the World takes the reader on a trip through time and around the globe as its charts the growth and development of the world's various timekeeping systems, also detailing the religious feasts and festivals intimately connected with humanity's efforts to measure the passage of time.

Bahá’í author Margo Westrheim includes a chapter on the Badí Calendar established by the Báb, and later approved by Bahá’u’lláh, and all the major Bahá’í Holy Days are described in this comprehensive, illustrated volume. An invaluable reference book for home use and Bahá’í classes, it is also suitable for presentation to schools.

7-1/8" x 9-1/8", 119pp., contents, Introduction, appendix, bibliography Oneworld Publications.

Forget-Me-Not Nicobar

by Jeanne Frankel de Corrales and Margaret K. Bates SC $8.95

Margaret Bates, Jeanne Frankel, and their Lhasa Apso, Muñeca, boarded the Ile de France at New York harbor on December 16, 1956. The fact that they managed to reach their Ten Year Crusade post on Car Nicobar in India's Bay of Bengal is a testimony to the power of their love and devotion to the Bahá’í Faith and particularly to their total dedication to, and trust in, Shoghi Effendi's grand vision. This story of two very unlikely Knights of Bahá’u’lláh and their energetic canine companion will bring you tears and laughter in equal measure.

5" x 7-3/4", 176pp. Oneworld Publications

From Night to Knight

by Jenabe E. Caldwell SC $7.95

The story of one man's journey from spiritual uncertainty to the bounty of becoming a Knight of Bahá’u’lláh. Whether pioneering in the frozen wastes of the Aleutian Islands or in the heat of Mexico, the author shares with readers the tests and gifts of a life dedicated to serving the Bahá’í Faith.

5" x 7-3/4", 127pp. Oneworld Publications

New From Oneworld Publications

مرکز A THEORY OF ALMOST EVERYTHING A Scientific & Rel Quest for Ultimale rt of a CO INTERNA RT GROUP by WIN LASZLO FROM NIGHT TO KNIGHT FORGET-ME-NOT NICOBAR CALENDARS OF THE WORLD A LOOK AT CALENDARS & THE WAYS WE CELEBRATE ROBERT Jeanne Frankel de Corrales & Margaret K. Bates Margo Westrheim [Page 7]

Distribution

Wheelin’ It

by Cindy Savage SC $6.95

The kids in the Bahá’í Youth Wave group are going from strength to strength in their teaching and proclamation work, but for one member of the team, everything seems too much. When family life, commitments to the Bahá’í Club, and the upcoming skateboarding regional finals seem to be pulling Will Wheeler apart, he’s sure something will have to give. No one should be forced to juggle priorities like these!

5" x 7-3/4", 90pp. Oneworld Publications

Nine Days to Istanbul

by Jeanne Frankel de Corrales SC $7.95

When Jeanne Frankel de Corrales decided as an economy measure to travel in winter across Europe from Germany to Haifa by train and then boat, she expected it to be the kind of pleasant adventure one always anticipates when visiting new people and places. Instead, it turned into an almost unbelievable trial of her courage, faith, and will to survive. This is the true and unforgettable story of that journey.

5" x 7-3/4", 128pp. Oneworld Publications

My Little Box of Bahá’í Readings and Prayers

compiled by Juliet Mabey HC $16.95 (3-VOLUME SET PLUS SLIPCASE)

A collection of prayers and writings of Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, and the Báb for young children. Each selection was chosen for young children to read and remember. Each of the three books is heavily illustrated in full-color, featuring children from various national and ethnic backgrounds. The set includes My Little Book of Bahá’í Prayers, My Little Book of the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, and My Little Book of Writings and Talks of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

3-3/8" x 4-1/2", 32 pages each Oneworld Publications

ONEWORLD

Stress: An Owner’s Manual

Positive Techniques for Taking Charge of Your Life by Arthur Rowshan SC $8.95

Stress: An Owner’s Manual takes a positive look at the role of stress in our lives, teaching us how to recognize personal symptoms of stress and offering a holistic approach to a stress-free life.

The book deals with the stresses of everyday living as well as times of crisis. This wonderfully practical book is full of ideas and advice for handling stressful or challenging situations.

5-3/4" x 8-7/8", 149pp., contents, foreword, further reading Oneworld Publications

Call Us At 1-800-999-9019 For a Complete Catalog

SHIP To ______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________ CITY ___

Daytime Telephone ( ) _______________________

Payment Method —Cash —Check —Charge ($10.00 MINIMUM—VISA, MASTER, AMEX)

ITEM	QUANTITY	COST
TOTAL
FOR ORDERS SHIPPED OUTSIDE THE U.S., PLEASE ADD 15% (MIN. $3.00)

________________________________________________ Expiration Date ____________________

Bahá’í Distribution Service • 5397 Wilbanks Dr., Chattanooga, TN 37343 • 1-800-999-9019 • Fax 1-615-843-0836 [Page 8]Classified notices in The American Bahá’í are published free of charge as a service to the Bahá’í community. Because of this, notices are limited to items relating to the Faith; no personal or commercial ads can be accepted for publication. The opportunities referred to have not been approved by the National Spiritual Assembly; the friends should exercise their own judgment and care in responding to them.

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

THE LOUHELEN Bahá’í School is seeking applicants to fill an anticipated vacancy for coordinator of property improvement. This is a regular, full-time permanent staff position, with salary and benefits appropriate to the core supervisory role it offers. The coordinator of property improvement oversees Louhelen’s maintenance and grounds department and is responsible for coordinating and assuring the maintenance, upkeep and over-all physical improvement of the school’s equipment, facilities and grounds. It is anticipated that the position will be available beginning December 1, 1994. ‎Interest Interested‎ persons may ask for more information and application materials from Dr. Rick Johnson, administrator, Louhelen Bahá’í School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423, or phone 810-653-5033 (fax 810-653-7181).

WANTED: customer service representative/salesperson at the Bahá’í Publishing Trust in Oakham, Rutland, United Kingdom. Looking for someone with relevant experience and qualifications to be responsible for all aspects of order processing and reception duties in this small but busy office in the heart of the English countryside. Training will be given, but all applicants should have basic keyboard and numeric skills, good written communication, and a pleasant telephone manner. Training or experience in customer services would be an advantage, and practical knowledge of Bahá’í administration is desirable. An interest in Bahá’í literature and knowledge of at least one European language other than English would be an asset. The Bahá’í Publishing Trust, a department of the National Spiritual Assembly, is an equal opportunity employer. Group pension and staff benefits available; salary is negotiable according to qualifications and experience. Please reply in writing (including names of at least two references) by May 21 to: Manager, Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 6 Mt. Pleasant, Oakham, Leics. LE156HU, United Kingdom. For more information, phone 0572 722780.

VOLUNTEERS are needed to staff two summer school sessions for Lakota children at the Treehaven Institute in South Dakota. The sessions are designed to help the children improve basic academic skills including reading and mathematics. Volunteers are sought to teach, provide transportation for children, and help with various support activities. Training will be provided as required. It is best if volunteers can stay for a two-week session, but no offer of help will be turned down. For more information, please contact Pat de Boucher, 605-455-2621.

PIONEERING (OVERSEAS)

EMPLOYMENT opportunities overseas. AFRICA: Tanzania—English/ESL teacher, arts/music teacher. Zambia—urgent need for math, physics, chemistry, French and geography teachers. AMERICAS: Brazil—urgent need for teachers. Honduras—elementary and junior high school teachers. ASIA: Macau—urgent need for teachers. AUSTRALASIA: Marshall Islands—science teachers. Tuvalu—science/math teacher. EUROPE: Albania—need for volunteers to help develop and run professional exhibitions for Bahá’í Cultural Center being established. For more information, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette IL 60091 (phone 708-733-3512; fax 708-733-3509).

PIONEERING (HOMEFRONT)

TO FULFILL THE GOALS of the Three Year Plan, the Bahá’ís around the goal cities of Akron and Canton, Ohio, have arisen and committed themselves to forming Assemblies there. Needed in Akron, where a number of single Bahá’ís live, is a strong, active family to provide a base from which the teaching work can be carried out, to which seekers can be welcomed, and from which they and the community can be nurtured. The Akron Beacon Journal, the largest newspaper in the area, last year made a commitment to do all it can to help make Akron a model for race relations. More than 140 organizations have lent their energy to improving race relations, and more than 22,000 residents sent in New Year’s resolutions to work for that goal. The “Army of Light” will devote significant time and energy in the area this summer. We need your help to realize this glorious opportunity, and are eager to hear from you. For more information, please phone Holly Timberlake, 216-678-0901, or Nancy Hooker, 216-650-2094.

PIONEERING—with all the comforts of home. In Providence, Rhode Island, you can find almost any language and culture. One neighborhood in Providence was described in the newspaper as having 54 cultures representing 34 countries. It’s an ideal place in which to train for pioneering overseas. The need for English teachers is great. If you are a student, Rhode Island has a variety of schools with great diversity in both faculty and student bodies. If you need employment, bilingual public school teachers and health-care workers are always in demand. For more information, please write to Barbara J. Camm, Jamestown, RI 02835, or phone 401-423-2402.

HELP BRING IN the troops in media-oriented Malibu, an oceanside community in southern California. Great opportunities to reach the masses in this lovely coastal haven for celebrities. Become a ninth member of the Assembly with a year’s commitment to pioneer within commuting distance of Los Angeles. Also needed is a family, preferably media-oriented with ethnic diversity, deepened in the Cause and able to take part in the many activities involved in attracting seekers in the industry. Pepperdine University, Santa Monica College, and UCLA provide many educational/cultural opportunities. Reasonable housing available. Please respond to Ruth Rosenwald, Malibu, CA 90265 (phone 310-457-5336).

ARCHIVES

THE NATIONAL Bahá’í Archives is seeking, at the request of the Universal House of Justice, original letters written on behalf of the Guardian to the following individuals: Mrs. E.T. Stansell, Albert W. Staub, Calvin C. Steimetz, Charlotte Steinhardt, Eleanore G. Stetson, Irving W. Stevens (died Winston-Salem, NC, 1961), Mary F. Stevison (died Sioux City, IA, 1959), Ella Steward, and Caroline E. Stewart. Anyone knowing family members or relatives who might have these letters from the Guardian is asked to contact the National Bahá’í Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039).

THE NATIONAL Bahá’í Archives is maintaining a mailing list of those who would like to receive copies of its duplicate book mail auction catalogs. The Archives has been having two mail auctions of duplicate books each year. If you would like to be on the mailing list, please send your name, address and Bahá’í I.D. number to the National Bahá’í Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

HELP WANTED in THE NATIONAL TEACHING OFFICE

The office of the National Teaching Committee has undergone a recent restructuring in light of the present needs of the Faith. As a result, applications are being accepted for the following full-time positions:

National Projects Administrator

Responsible for executing projects sponsored by the National Teaching Committee. Some duties include:

• Manages national support of teaching throughout the U.S.
• Monitors nationally appointed task forces and national initiatives.
• Coordinates special activities and events.

Experience: Proven project management skills; excellent verbal ability; strong analytical and management capacity; superior interpersonal skills; experience in teaching and familiarity with the principles of Bahá’í administration.

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 Bahá’í 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 Bahá’í Writings; proven ability in research and data analysis; ability to coordinate the work of volunteer task forces; excellent interpersonal skills.

For more information or to apply, please write to the Office of Human Resources, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-733-3427).

WANTED

WANTED: papers, correspondence, recollections, stories, photographs, tapes, newspaper clippings, notes of talks, programs, compilations, instructions, outstanding work, index cards etc., relating to the “Worlds of God” Index, National Reference Library Committee, Marian Crist Lippitt, and/or H. Emogene Hoagg to help complete and document this monumental conceptual index. Any expenses you incur will be reimbursed. Please send to Diane Iverson, Eliot, ME 03903-1825 (phone 207-439-8532).

LOOKING FOR a mature, dedicated person and/or couple with experience in managing property who can commit to at least a year of service to coordinate use of the 19,000-square-foot Bahá’í Center in San Francisco, California. Apartment provided. The position is key to achieving entry by troops in this urban community. For information, write to the Spiritual Assembly of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94103 (phone 415-431-9990; fax 415-431-1736).

PUBLICATIONS

THE SPARTANBURG County, South Carolina, Bahá’í pamphlet: a must for teaching “the butcher, the baker, the candlestick maker” and everyone else. This small booklet can easily be reproduced for less than 10 cents a copy. Contains basic principles, 25 prayers, and selections from the Writings. For a copy, send a stamped, self-addressed envelope to Donna Landau, Greer, SC 29651.

DURING the Holy Year, the Bahá’ís of Plantation, Florida, printed and sold more than 80,000 copies of the Universal House of Justice’s statement, Bahá’u’lláh. While we are no longer stocking the publication, the Assembly would consider reprinting it if there were sufficient demand. Those who are interested in purchasing large quantities, at a price of 3/$1, are asked to contact the Spiritual Assembly of Plantation, c/o Pritchard, Plantation, FL 33317 (phone 305-587-1863; fax 305-791-1844).

DO YOU tell stories? Do you write stories? Can you create a picture that says more than a thousand words? Have you ever wished you could find a way to use your talents for educating and entertaining children? May we introduce you to Brilliant Books—a new publishing company under the guidance of the National Spiritual Assembly of Belgium. Our goal is to produce entertaining and inspiring children’s books, with color illustrations, on Bahá’í themes. Books that are affordable, and that are available in most of the European languages. If you would like to help us fulfill this goal of the Three Year Plan, please contact Brilliant Books, c/o Jan Folkema, Bergstraat 1, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium.

MISCELLANEOUS

THE BAHÁ’ÍS of Pajarito, in northern New Mexico, extend thanks and appreciation to all who replied to the appeal for homefront pioneers at the beginning of this year. To every one of the more than 20 persons with whom we have had inspiring contact, by phone or by letter, we say, “thank you.” You have given us most welcome support, and have increased our courage to work harder to reach our goal of a stronger Assembly by Ridván. Our Assembly is safe, though still fragile. We hope your interest in New Mexico continues, and we will continue to be steadfast in cheering you on. Thelma Ramborger, secretary, Spiritual Assembly of Pajarito, Albuquerque, NM 87121 (phone 505-873-4768). [Page 9]

Bahá’ís act quickly to promote Cause

A combination of quick thinking and consultation recently allowed three Bahá’í communities to publicly further the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh.

In each case the Bahá’ís saw an opportunity, contacted the National Spiritual Assembly’s Secretariat for External Affairs in Washington, D.C., then took prompt action.

Charlottesville, Virginia

The Spiritual Assembly of Charlottesville and the Bahá’í Association at the University of Virginia knew they had to respond in some way when a campus organization invited Iran’s United Nations ambassador to speak.

Guided by the National Spiritual Assembly, the Bahá’ís wrote letters to UVa President John T. Casteen III and to a campus publication. Then they confronted Ambassador Kamal Kharazzi with questions at his talk.

The letter to President Casteen detailed the continuing persecution of Bahá’ís in Iran including executions, the denial of civil and human rights, destruction of Bahá’í holy sites and desecration of Bahá’í cemeteries.

It also expressed the fear that “sponsoring the ambassador as a VIP at UVa, in light of these persecutions, sends ambiguous signals to the university community and may be interpreted as raising the stature of the Iranian government at the expense of the need to increase consciousness of these atrocities.”

President Casteen, in response, said he shares the Bahá’ís’ “sense of horror” and emphasized that Mr. Kharazzi’s visit “in no way should be considered an endorsement of the Iranian government, or of its involvement in the violation of the human rights of any group.”

The president noted, though, that Mr. Kharazzi was invited by a student-run organization and should be afforded the right of free speech.

In the University Journal, the Bahá’ís again detailed the persecutions and conveyed an “urgency of communicating these facts to people who may not otherwise be aware of them.”

Having prepared the UVa community, the Bahá’ís showed up at Mr. Kharazzi’s talk ready to counter any misconceptions.

They got their opportunity when the ambassador asserted that Iran is a stable country and the most democratic in the region, and the comments of Michael Bernhard, a Bahá’í who is a university library employee, were quoted in The Cavalier Daily’s account of the speech.

Hamilton Township, New Jersey

The Bahá’ís of Hamilton Township also mobilized to counter the impact of a campus talk, this one by Nation of Islam spokesman Khalid Abdul Muhammad at Trenton State College.

With the permission of the National Spiritual Assembly, the Bahá’ís co-signed a statement titled “Racism, bigotry, and hate speeches are always wrong” that ran as a full-page advertisement in The Times of Trenton.

“Our participation was noted by several prominent ecumenical/Holocaust groups who are familiar with the Bahá’ís,” Barbara S. Harris, chairman of the Spiritual Assembly of Hamilton Township, noted in a letter to the Office of External Affairs.

The statement, endorsed by dozens of political, civic and religious leaders, invited the public to an interfaith Vigil of Conscience scheduled to coincide with Mr. Muhammad’s speech. Several Bahá’ís attended the vigil.

The Times, in an editorial, praised the interfaith campaign for “focusing attention on the need to reach out to one another. We can’t hide from race, the reality that Gunnar Myrdal called ‘an American dilemma’; only by confronting that reality do we have any chance of dealing with its consequences.”

The newspaper also has launched a regular opinion column devoted to issues of race, and the Spiritual Assembly of Hamilton Township is preparing an article for submission.

Deerfield Beach, Florida

It was no coincidence that when 27 political, religious and business leaders from Deerfield Beach visited ‘Akká (Acre), Israel, in March to sign a Sister City agreement, they were greeted with open arms at the Bahá’í World Center.

The Spiritual Assembly of Deerfield Beach had long ago built relationships within the community including involvement in the Education Advisory Board, Community Relations Board, Martin Luther King Day activities, Cracker Day parade and the Chamber of Commerce.

Pictured (left to right) in ‘Akká (Acre), Israel, after signing a Sister Cities agreement are John Schwerin, Office of External Affairs, Bahá’í World Center; Kiska Dawes, a Bahá’í from Deerfield Beach, Florida; Mayor Emile De Castro of Acre; Bahá’ís Polly Dawes and Helen Hauck of Deerfield Beach; and Mayor Al Cappellini of Deerfield Beach.

And after the “twinning” with ‘Akká was announced, the local Assembly immediately wrote to the National Spiritual Assembly and the Universal House of Justice about Bahá’ís’ participation in the trip.

As a result, six Bahá’ís from the Deerfield Beach area were present to show their fellow residents through the Holy Places. The visitors also were hosted in a special reception by the Office of Public Information at the Bahá’í World Center.

In fact, all during the nine-day trip, the six Bahá’ís fielded many questions about the Faith from their traveling companions in conversations that lasted well into the evening.

One of the travelers was a clergyman who was visibly moved by the Bahá’í message. He has since mentioned the Faith favorably on his weekly radio program and at a Methodist retreat.

The Bahá’ís have enjoyed other bounties from the “twinning.”

A week before the trip, the Spiritual Assembly of Deerfield Beach presented a 20-minute slide show of the Holy Land for the delegation. Upon their return, the Bahá’ís were asked to talk about the Faith at two gatherings attended by more than 400 people.

Photo caption in error

The caption beneath a photograph that appeared on Page 10 of The American Bahá’í for February 7, 1994, was in error.

The photograph, of Bahá’í Trish Hendon of Niceville, Florida, and Chief Donnie Ross, was taken at an Inter-Tribal Pow-wow last October 22-24 at Eglin Air Force Base, not at the Okaloosa County Fair, as indicated. We regret the error.

As the only religious group taking part in the event, the Bahá’ís were allowed to have pamphlets available for anyone interested in obtaining more information about the Faith.

As a result of the Bahá’í participation, Ms. Hendon, the public relations representative for the Bahá’í community of Okaloosa County, was asked by the tribal council to serve as local Intertribal Public Relations Representative.

Spiritual retreat helps strengthen bonds of love, friendship between N.Y.C. Assembly and assistants to Auxiliary Board

Behold how, in this Day, the Beginning is reflected in the end, how out of Stillness Motion hath been engendered. —(Bahá’u’lláh, Gleanings)

Generating motion out of stillness was one of the purposes for a spiritual retreat for members of the Spiritual Assembly of New York City and assistants to the Auxiliary Board.

They met April 2 at the home of an Assembly member for an afternoon of prayer, deepening, study of the recent compilation on “Entry by Troops,” and plain old-fashioned socializing, complete with hearty laughter and good food.

No decisions were made, no plan formulated. An informal venue was just what the members of the two institutions wanted. Away from the pressures of their day-to-day concerns, consultation was free-flowing and prayerfulness was the order of the day.

“As individuals, we have to pray hard for transformation, to the point where we’ll recognize instantly what we have to do and do it,” said Assembly member Viola Wood. The retreat, she said, was a time to pray for that transformation, not as individuals but as institutions.

Another main reason for the retreat, apart from its meditative focus, was to strengthen the bonds between the “institution of the Rulers,” which includes local Spiritual Assemblies, and the “institution of the Learned,” which includes Auxiliary Board members and their assistants.

“When there’s harmony among institutions,” said Assembly member Catherine Chapman, “it’s a sign of health in the community.”

The relationship between the New York City Assembly and the assistants is quite good, she said. “Some communities don’t even know who their assistants are.”

Though the Assembly and assistants to the Board meet monthly, they occasionally schedule a retreat to escape distractions and to see things in a new way.

By getting together informally, the two institutions hope to learn more about each other’s role and how the relationship between them can help prepare the community for entry by troops. [Page 10]

Dallas radio program year old, still going strong

What a difference a year makes. When the Spiritual Assembly of Dallas, Texas, debuted its half-hour radio program on March 30, 1993, it took a team of four to six people more than 12 hours to plan and script a show.

The weary group, most of whom had stayed up half the night, met at 6:30 a.m. at the station to read the script live and gesture to the KNON-FM engineer when it was time for music.

One year later, the series airs at a much less stressful 11:30 a.m. on Sundays, and some of the programs are taped beforehand.

Fewer shows are scripted; often, interviews are conducted instead. Four members of the task force even have earned FCC licenses, which means they can operate KNON’s mixing board themselves.

In short, experience has made creating and executing the show far easier.

Shamil Fattakhov, chairman of the Regional Spiritual Assembly of Russia, Georgia and Armenia, is interviewed on the Bahá’í radio program, ‘Morning Light,’ in Dallas, Texas.

It has been harder, though, to gauge the effectiveness of the program, called “Morning Light.” A few listeners have called the station with questions about the Faith. The Dallas Bahá’í Center also has received some calls of inquiry.

But for area Bahá’ís, there is a thrill just in hearing the Faith presented on the air.

Over the past year, “Morning Light” has presented a wide variety of topics featuring local as well as visiting Bahá’ís.

Interviewees have included William Davis, treasurer of the National Spiritual Assembly; Auxiliary Board member Kevin Locke; Shamil Fattakhov, chairman of the Regional Spiritual Assembly of Russia, Georgia and Armenia; performer Ladjamaya Green Mahoney; and John Kavelin, who played a leading role in the second Bahá’í World Congress.

Two dedicated families combine forces to teach Faith via social dinners

This is a story of two dedicated, generous families in eastern Pennsylvania who are eager to teach the Faith. It is also a story of unity.

In one of the families is a lovely lady who has the talent necessary to prepare and serve delicious meals for large gatherings. The other family owns a home that is spacious enough to accommodate such gatherings.

Six years ago these two families combined their resources, their talents, and their energies in a unique teaching effort.

And because other Bahá’ís support and help with this project, community unity is also evident.

The two families’ social-dinner, as it is called, is held faithfully every month. Usually 60 to 100 people meet in the warm, loving atmosphere of one home, dine on Persian dishes prepared in the home of the other family, and have an informal opportunity to learn about the Faith.

The evening progresses without any program, but with plenty of interaction. Even though there are usually many more seekers than Bahá’ís, the Bahá’ís know that they are there to teach, and they make themselves available to anyone who wants to learn about the Faith.

This format brings together people from miles around and from around the world—as far away as Africa, Russia and South America.

The guests respond positively to the love and warmth felt at these gatherings, and often express surprise at seeing people from many countries and religious backgrounds get together to enjoy themselves.

For many, this social-dinner has been their first opportunity to hear about Bahá’u’lláh and the Bahá’í Faith. They then can go back to their hometowns to further their knowledge of the Faith.

Bahá’ís in northwestern Ohio dress for the occasion to mark Naw-Rúz, first Temple Unity convention

In March, Bahá’ís in northwestern Ohio celebrated Naw-Rúz and the 85th anniversary of the first Bahá’í Temple Unity convention held in Chicago on March 21, 1909.

To prepare for the occasion, Bahá’ís were asked to come dressed as their favorite Bahá’í hero or heroine and to be prepared to talk about them or portray a scene from their lives.

As at the 1909 convention, “Thornton Chase” read a part of his welcoming speech, while “Corinne True” shared a Tablet sent to the convention by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Together, they introduced members of three groups of Bahá’ís:

The first group, contemporaries of the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh, included Quddús, Táhirih, and members of the Holy Family, Bahía Khánum and Ásíyih Khánum.

In the second group were such notable early Bahá’ís as Lua Getsinger, Edith Magee (the first Canadian Bahá’í), Ethel Rosenberg, Ali-Kuli Khan, Lady Blomfield, May Maxwell with daughter Mary (Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum), Agnes Alexander, Martha Root, and Queen Marie of Rumania.

The final group of more recent Bahá’ís included Marion Jack, William Sears, Dorothy Baker, Victoria Bedikian, Daniel Jordan and Florence Zmeskal.

One family with three small children came dressed as the crew of the S.S. Cedric, explaining how ‘Abdu’l-Bahá had chosen to come to North America in 1912 on the Cedric instead of on the more luxurious and well-publicized liner, the Titanic.

The program ended with a moving tribute to the three Bahá’ís who were recently murdered in Ciskei—Houshmand Anvari, Dr. Shamam Bakhshandegi and Riaz Razavi—after which the friends shared a potluck dinner.

‘LADY BLOMFIELD’ (TANA WALSH)

Detroit-area Bahá’ís on boards of directors of a number of non-Bahá’í organizations

As a result of various activities including Bahá’í-sponsored talks to promote interracial understanding, Bahá’ís in the Detroit area have been invited to join the boards of directors of several non-Bahá’í organizations.

Oliver Thomas was recently asked to submit an application to join the board of the Total Living Commission for the city of Southfield as a Bahá’í representative. He was nominated by the city’s director of community relations who was impressed with the Bahá’í principles.

Another Bahá’í, Azar Alizadeh, is taking part as the Faith’s representative on the Birmingham-Bloomfield Task Force on Race Relations and Ethnic Diversity, which this month is hosting a public program on “Raising Children to Be Loving and Successful in a Diverse World.” The Bahá’ís of metropolitan Detroit are co-sponsoring the event, and one of the panelists is a Bahá’í.

Also, Hormoz Alizadeh was recently invited to become the Bahá’í representative to the board of the American Mosaic Coalition, an umbrella group of various ethnic and religious communities sponsored by the Jewish Community Council and headquartered in suburban Bloomfield Hills.

Bahá’ís in Ft. Lauderdale mark Black History Month by taking part in festival

In February, the Bahá’ís of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, observed Black History Month by taking part (with help from nearby communities in Broward County) in the Sistrunk Historical Festival whose theme was appreciating the contributions of Indian and black Americans.

Bahá’ís marched in the festival’s five-mile-long parade and manned a booth at which more than 6,000 pieces of literature were given away and several interest cards signed. Attendance at the annual event runs well above 30,000. [Page 11]

Be magazine helps connect Bahá’í youth

A desire expressed at the second Bahá’í World Congress for a Bahá’í youth publication has evolved into Be magazine, an international magazine published in New Mexico. The magazine's principal aim is to help Bahá’í youth around the world develop an awareness of their connection to one another.

According to a letter that the editors sent to readers, "It is a place to learn more about our worldwide community, so that when we think of our circle of friends and our community it is worldwide. It's a place to learn of how our goals are being worked toward by our family all across the world, and how by our own actions in our own communities we can work toward the goals of our global community."

A computer version of the magazine called Be On-line has been sent out monthly since March. It has subscribers in the mainland United States, Canada, Australia, Hong Kong, Bolivia, Thailand, New Zealand, Germany, Finland, England, Ireland, Guam, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Ukraine, Belize, Trinidad and Tobago, Japan, and Haifa.

A newsletter version of Be is soon to be launched by the Office of Youth Affairs of the Bahá’ís of New Zealand. A South Korean version also is to be launched this year.

And the first quarterly issue of Be magazine in the U.S. will be printed this summer. Details will soon be available at youth conferences and workshop gatherings.

The magazine's editors invite submissions (art must be camera-ready) and are willing to work with anyone who feels that Be might be able to help his or her project.

For more information, contact Be International at 505-256-7734 or write to Albuquerque, NM 87106.

Harrisburg Bahá’ís lead morality panel

For World Religion Day in January, the Spiritual Assembly of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, sponsored a panel discussion whose theme was "Morality: A Spiritual Path to Security."

Panelists included a priest, a rabbi, a Muslim imam, and a Bahá’í. Despite cold weather, 25 people, most of whom were not Bahá’ís, attended.

Bahá’ís in North Haven, Connecticut, launch teaching campaign to eliminate prejudice

The Bahá’ís of North Haven, Connecticut, launched a teaching project centered on the elimination of prejudice with a three-pronged program at the North Haven Memorial Library.

An exhibit featuring books by Bahá’ís and non-Bahá’ís on race, culture and the attainment of peace was displayed through the end of April.

On May 2, a panel discussion on the elimination of prejudice was moderated by a local Bahá’í, Howard Garey.

The three panelists were Jack Hasegawa, who has been appointed by Gov. Lowell Weicker to promote regional schools ensuring equal education for all races; Ann Higgins, a United Church of Christ minister and activist in racial harmony; and Archie B. Savage, director of affirmative action programs for the University of Connecticut Health Center in Farmington.

Dr. Garey, in his opening remarks, emphasized the central importance of unity in the Bahá’í Faith and explained why racism is the "most challenging issue" in the United States.

Howard Garey presents a copy of Healing Racism in America to Patti LaTerza, representing the North Haven, Connecticut, Public Library. Seated behind them are Jack Hasegawa and Ann Higgins.

An audience of about 20 people, half of whom were not Bahá’ís, joined in a lively discussion.

At the end of the program, Dr. Garey presented the library with a copy of Healing Racism in America by Nathan Rutstein. The book was accepted by children's librarian Patti La Terza on behalf of library Director Lois Baldini.

U.S. urged to remain a human rights leader

Continued from page I

Rights, the United Nations Association, the National Education Association, and others.

In October 1993, representatives of the National Assembly helped solicit the support of major civil rights groups such as the NAACP and the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights, wrote a letter to Assistant Secretary John Shattuck at the State Department which was signed by 38 national organizations in support of ratification, and met with administration officials and congressional staff.

Together with the International Human Rights Law Group, which commissioned Wilmer, Cutler & Pickering to do a legal analysis of the Race Convention, the National Spiritual Assembly's representatives hosted meetings with State Department personnel and NGO representatives to discuss the administration's legal package supporting ratification.

The final package included three reservations, one declaration and one understanding to be deposited with the UN Secretary-General upon the advice and consent of the Senate and the signature of the President.

Following is the National Spiritual Assembly's statement:

Racism is the most challenging issue confronting America. It is an insult to human dignity, a cause of hatred and division, a disease that devastates society. The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States unequivocally supports the ratification by the United States of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination.

The proposal for a specialized convention on racial discrimination was a result of incidents of anti-semitism in Western Europe during the winter of 1960 and of memories of the Holocaust. Moreover, the newly independent African states were concerned about racial discrimination on their own continent and in North America. Today racial and ethnic conflagrations have exploded once again in the heart of Europe and of Africa, underscoring the need for an international response.

"Ratification by the United States is still essential to demonstrate to the world this country's commitment. ..." — NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY

The Convention, which was signed by the United States in 1966, provides a legal definition of "racial discrimination." Some 30 years after the signing, the laws of the United States largely comply with the Convention. Ratification by the United States is still essential to demonstrate to the world this country's commitment to the elimination of racial discrimination and to the resolution of racial and ethnic conflicts both here and abroad.

Only two years ago we watched in horror the violence and fires in Los Angeles. America's peace, prosperity, and even her standing in the international community depend largely on healing the wounds of racism and building a society in which all people, irrespective of color, ethnicity, national origin, or religion live as members of one family.

Long-term solutions to ethnic and racial conflicts require a comprehensive vision of a global society, supported by international law, which should not be viewed as a constraint on the nation-state or a threat to its sovereignty but as a foundation for the next phase of the world's political development. The United States, faithful to its well-established tradition of concern for world peace and human rights, must continue to play a leading role in defining and building the international legal order.

Active participation by the United States is another important step in building structures and mechanisms that are necessary for the emergence of a truly new, just, and peaceful world order. Bahá’ís anticipate the "establishment of a world commonwealth in which all nations, races, creeds and classes are closely and permanently united, and in which the autonomy of its state members and the personal freedom and initiative of the individuals that compose them are definitely and completely safeguarded." America must continue to play a leading part in this historic endeavor. [Page 12]

Publishers must send copies to World Center

On October 16, 1991, the Universal House of Justice reminded all agencies of the Faith engaged in publishing and printing Bahá’í materials of the need to deposit copies with the Bahá’í World Center Library. The list of materials attached to that letter has been revised. Please replace the earlier list with the following revised list.

For works in languages other than Persian, Arabic and major European languages, please enclose in the package or under separate cover an English translation of the title and, in the case of non-Roman alphabets, a transliteration into Roman letters of the following: the author's name, the title, the place of publication, the publisher, and the periodical numbering and date of issue. Transliteration is the process of putting into the Roman alphabet the equivalent of the original words. If the work is a translation or an adaptation of a work originally published in another language, please indicate this as well.

As more Bahá’í publications and audio-visual materials are produced by independent Bahá’í-owned and non-Bahá’í publishing firms, it is important that the World Center Library become aware of and acquire these publications. The Library has agreements with major independent Bahá’í-owned publishers, but needs to be aware of all the independently produced Bahá’í publications. National Spiritual Assemblies may send pertinent information on such independently produced materials to the World Center Library so that the publications may be ordered by the Library, or the Assemblies may send copies to the World Center, in which case the Library will reimburse all costs.

We also remind you that the Universal House of Justice wishes to receive copies of non-Bahá’í publications which contain significant mention of the Faith: books, pamphlets, magazine and journal articles, and newspaper stories. If it is not possible to send the original publication, please send a photocopy of the pertinent portion and of the title page of the work from which it is taken.

Your continued help in creating an effective Bahá’í international library is deeply appreciated.

With loving Bahá’í greetings,

The Bahá’í World Center Library October 14, 1993

Materials to be deposited with the Bahá’í World Center Library

Revised: August 1993

1. Monographs (books, booklets, pamphlets, leaflets) 1.1. 5 copies of each new publication 1.2. 5 copies of each new edition 1.3. 5 copies of reprints where the printing is done by a different publisher 1.4. 5 copies of "reprints" that contain corrections 1.5. 5 copies of reimpressions by the same publishing agency where there is no correction, change or revision

If the number of copies printed is small, you may reduce the number of copies sent to 2. By publication is meant not only typeset publications, but also mimeographed, photocopied and offset publications in those countries where these are important means for making literature available.

2. Audio-visual and publicity materials (cassette and reel tapes, sound discs, video cassettes, slide shows, filmstrips, motion pictures, posters, broadsides, postcards, greeting cards) 2.1. 2 copies of published audio-visual materials except motion pictures 2.2. 1 copy of motion pictures (the Library can arrange to reimburse the producer for the cost) 2.3. 2 samples of all publicity and proclamation materials (posters, greeting cards, etc.)

3. Miscellaneous individual publications 3.1. 5 copies each of your annual reports, national convention reports and directories in the original language, as well as any translations you may choose to prepare 3.2. 2 copies of brochures/programs relating to special events such as conferences, commemorations, institutes and schools 3.3. 2 copies of book sale catalogs, price lists and promotional brochures issued by your Assembly, Publishing Trust, Publishing Committee or Book Distribution Service 3.4. 2 copies of calendars 3.5. 2 copies of computer software diskettes (produced for sale) 3.6. 1 set of all correspondence courses produced 3.7. 2 sets of curriculum materials 3.8. 1 copy of each publication in Braille

4. Newsletters, bulletins, periodicals 4.1. 3 copies of every issue of all bulletins, newsletters and periodicals published by you or your subordinate bodies for nationwide distribution (to be sent by air mail if possible); more than 3 copies of some periodicals may be, or may already have been requested by the World Center Library, and such special arrangements remain in effect

5. Non-Bahá’í publications mentioning the Faith 5.1. Newspaper clippings/cuttings-1 copy of each clipping Such clippings should conform to the following criteria: 5.1.1. They should be articles containing direct reference to the Faith or to Bahá’ís 5.1.2. They should be from your country's major newspapers only, except where an article in a local newspaper is deemed highly significant; countries with infrequent newspaper publicity should send all articles 5.1.3. Articles should be complete, including all continuations if the articles appeared on several pages or in several issues of the newspaper 5.1.4. They should be sent as soon as possible after publication, as timeliness is important 5.1.5. They should be completely identified, including the title of the newspaper, where they were published, and the date of publication; transliteration of the newspaper and article titles should be provided if they are in a non-Roman alphabet 5.1.6. Original cuttings are preferred (or good quality photocopies if the original is not available, on plain white paper); kindly do not glue, staple or tape cuttings

5.2. Magazines, journals, periodicals by non-Bahá’ís, mentioning the Faith 1 copy of the entire issue. If this is not possible, a photocopy of the cover, the table of contents page, and the pages containing the entire article in which the Faith is mentioned would be acceptable

5.3. Books 1 copy of the entire book. If this is not possible, a photocopy of the title page, the publication data, and the relevant pages where the Faith is mentioned would be acceptable

Weekly television series being offered to Bahá’í communities

A new television series aimed at attracting seekers to the Faith is being marketed to local communities.

"The Bahá’í Faith," a weekly program produced by RTI Visual Communications Inc. of Farmington, Michigan, is being offered to local Spiritual Assemblies in the top 20 U.S. media markets. The series is an outgrowth of a similar program that has aired on a commercial station in Detroit for the past two years.

RTI President Roxane Firmin says the Detroit program has resulted in about 250 seekers asking for information or visits. More than 20 of the seekers have been enrolled in the Faith.

She says the program's purpose is to "find those 'waiting souls' and provide them with a reason to call the local Bahá’í communities." Thus, the role of the teacher shifts from finding seekers to facilitating spiritual transformation.

Each 28-minute program consists primarily of feature segments that show the viewer who the Bahá’ís are and what we believe. Segments run from two to eight minutes apiece. The remaining time allows local communities to advertise upcoming Bahá’í-sponsored events, to provide local contact information, and to promote local sales of books, videos and other Bahá’í materials.

To keep costs down, RTI plans to combine new features with existing Bahá’í video footage. All materials must be approved by the National Spiritual Assembly.

Advertisements for the sale of books, audio cassettes and videos that are highlighted on the program allow seekers access to the Creative Word while generating income for artists, authors, the Bahá’í Distribution Service, and local communities.

The series is being targeted for placement on commercial television outlets because of their higher viewership and because those stations typically also are carried on cable systems that reach well beyond the signal area.

In a February 1 letter to selected local Spiritual Assemblies, Kit Cosby of the National Spiritual Assembly Office of the Secretary for External Affairs pointed out that the project will be financed entirely by the local Spiritual Assemblies that subscribe to the service.

She said that Spiritual Assemblies are "free to accept or reject the proposal by RTI" and noted that the National Spiritual Assembly is not subsidizing or benefiting from the project.

Mrs. Cosby also suggested that Spiritual Assemblies in a metropolitan area might wish to consider pooling financial resources to pay for the program and its placement. [Page 13]

Association for Bahá’í Studies builds bridges

To the Editor:

Summer is a time of abundant opportunities to immerse oneself in Bahá’í conferences and special events. While any Bahá’í event has the potential for raising our sights to new levels, I would like to mention one that holds tremendous promise: the annual Conference of the Association for Bahá’í Studies to be held August 11-14 in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

As I have attended these conferences sponsored by the ABS over the years, I have been impressed by the depth, the continuity, and the diversity of the offerings. Last year’s conference, in Montreal, focused on the Kitáb-i-Aqdas and included stellar presentations that touched the heart as well as the mind.

Two years before that, the conference in Victoria, British Columbia, was centered on our preparation for the Holy Year, while race unity was the theme of the 1990 gathering in Atlanta, Georgia.

This year’s theme—"Anarchy into Order: Understanding Humanity’s Role and Destiny"—draws largely on the letters of Shoghi Effendi relating to the present crises afflicting humanity. What could be more timely?

The conference attempts to "build bridges between visionaries and practitioners in the ongoing efforts of humanity to achieve peace and harmony for itself and with the rest of creation." This year’s event will include an address by David Ruhe, retired member of the Universal House of Justice; an evening with the Counselors; seminars on a number of topics of special interest; and a children’s conference with parallel themes and activities.

In speaking with other Bahá’ís, I have found that many harbor misconceptions about the ABS and its purposes. Some feel it is too "academic" for the average Bahá’í; in fact, it broadens the scope of scholarship to include all learning (including experiential).

Some say it is dominated by a few learned (generally white male) thinkers; the fact is that it strives to include diverse cultural (and gender) viewpoints and embraces a way of thinking that moves us away from power/control orientation and toward consultation and service.

Some assume the ABS is "Canadian" since its headquarters are in Ottawa; the truth is that it is international in scope, with members all over the world and functioning chapters in many countries.

Others feel that its membership dues and/or conference fees are too high; in fact, the ABS is struggling to be self-supporting and not underwritten by a Bahá’í Assembly, and it charges much less than comparable groups outside the Faith.

In talking to those who hold such opinions, I have found that they have never attended an ABS event or read one of its journals. We all make judgments about things of which we are not aware.

But opinions can change, and one of the best ways to change them is through experience. Try the ABS Conference; see if you can make it a life-altering experience. In my opinion, the Association for Bahá’í Studies is one of the best avenues within the Faith to prompt us to grow intellectually and spiritually.

Anne Gordon Perry

Dallas, Texas

(Editor’s note: The Association for Bahá’í Studies can be contacted at 34 Copernicus St., Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1N 7K4. Phone 613-233-1903; fax 613-233-3644.)

It’s reality, not dream: We must teach

To the editor:

This morning I was dreaming of being a young apprentice teacher. I had a temporary teaching job, and had to prove my knowledge and ability quickly, in order to turn my teaching position into a permanent job.

The warning voice of my supervisor still rang in my ears as I woke at the (to me!) early time of 6:30 a.m.: "You must demonstrate your ability and skill quickly!"

In my dream, I felt full of knowledge and enthusiasm. Before I was fully awake, I realized that I was expected to teach the people of the world about the Bahá’í Faith and modern science.

Being unable to sleep any more this morning, I have set down the essence of my dream in these few words.

There is a cleansing, quickening, purifying wind sweeping through our world. We must teach other people about it!

What do we teach? The source, nature and timing of this wind, a spiritual force, turning our world from a materialistic, nationalistic, factory-centered "second wave" civilization into a world-wide, clan-centered, "third wave," information-centered civilization.

Whom do we teach? Any person who will listen! Young people, preferably, since they have less to unlearn, and more at stake.

How do we teach? By analogy, example, facts and history! Modern people are, by and large, unaware of history and science.

Why do we teach? God, through Bahá’u’lláh, said we should! The historic sweep of this transforming force is inevitable, and must less destructive of life and property, if done as quickly as possible. Only we Bahá’ís can speed up this process.

Where do we teach? Anywhere we are! The time is short! It is true that traveling teachers are often more effective, due to reasons I do not understand.

Clyde Eugene Corson

Lawndale, California

Spirit of Mr. Yazdi’s visit lives on in teaching

To the Editor:

On April 7, the Bahá’í community of Modesto had the honor and privilege of meeting with Aziz Yazdi, who as a child lived in the home of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. The meeting was like nothing I had ever felt before.

Mr. Yazdi spoke first about his travels in Africa and the tests he received while living there.

Then someone asked him what it was like as a child living with ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Mr. Yazdi’s expression was so beautiful and radiant as he explained that it was like being immersed in an ocean of love.

The spirit that evening was so full that I felt as if my heart would burst with joy. I felt as though I had been touched by the Hand of God. My heart was so full that all I could do was cry, and I still cry at the thought of the wondrous events that have shaped my life, before and after becoming a Bahá’í.

Once home, I couldn’t sleep. I phoned a friend in North Dakota and shared the evening with her. She said I sounded like the early believers after they had met with ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

When God touched my heart that evening with Mr. Yazdi, I felt as though I had been to the Holy Shrines. I will never be the same.

Mr. Yazdi’s last words to me that evening were: "What are you going to do with this feeling?" As tears ran down my face all I could say was: "Continue to teach the world about Bahá’u’lláh."

Helen A. Hayton

Modesto, California

Bahá’í study table at university is example of loving association

To the Editor:

Bahá’í students at one of our universities tell me that they have loving association by studying together at a particular table in the university library.

They meet, quietly greet one another, and spiritually share their presence—often with non-Bahá’í friends. It has come to be known as "the Bahá’í table."

Sometimes, they say, they even have time to go out together. It’s nice.

Violet Wuerfel Clark

Highland Park, Michigan

LETTERS POLICY

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

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

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

Who can counsel homosexuals?

To the Editor:

In less than two years I have seen four Bahá’ís in our area who are homosexuals withdraw from active participation in the Faith.

When I asked two Bahá’ís who are doctors about Shoghi Effendi’s advice to homosexuals to "consult doctors," I was told that they don’t know of any psychiatrist who doesn’t advocate acceptance of the homosexual "lifestyle."

It would be of interest to homosexuals to know if there are any Bahá’í doctors who can counsel Bahá’ís who are homosexual.

Name and community withheld by request

[Page 14]

Bahá’ís use ‘boundary adjustment’ to proclaim Faith

On January 1, the town of Scottsville, Virginia, doubled the number of its residents and increased by nine-fold its size owing to a “boundary adjustment agreement” with surrounding Albemarle County.

The town grew from 105 acres to 960.89 and from 239 residents to 477.

To mark the occasion, 13 Bahá’ís from Scottsville, Albemarle County and Charlottesville held a day of prayer, meditation and fellowship. The Bahá’ís of Scottsville also addressed a letter to the pastors of the town’s five churches inviting them to join the Bahá’ís in prayer and to “use every opportunity that arises to promote unity, friendship and fellowship in our beloved community.”

On January 17, the Bahá’ís sent an “open letter” to all residents of Scottsville setting forth the Bahá’í vision for the town: “Let us set for ourselves the goal of making Scottsville a model community because of the unity of its citizens; let us set our course by following the advice: ‘Set your faces towards unity, and let the radiance of its light shine upon you. Gather ye together, and for the sake of God, resolve to root out whatever is the source of contention amongst you.’”

These activities were a prelude to the celebration this summer of the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the Bahá’í Group of Scottsville, the community’s 11th annual Race Unity Day picnic, and the observance of the 250th anniversary of the founding of Scottsville and Albemarle County.

News in brief

Nevada ‘Vision’ campaign aims to enroll scores of new believers

The enrollment of “scores of well-informed, committed new believers” is the aim of a recently-begun teaching campaign called the Southern Nevada Vision Project.

The campaign kicked off April 3 with an all-day meeting whose speakers included Counselor Arturo Serrano; James F. Nelson, chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly; and Auxiliary Board member Edward Deliberto.

Bahá’ís in southern Nevada were given an opportunity to sign up at a “job fair” to offer their services to the campaign. It is hoped that at least 75 percent of the Bahá’í community will be enlisted in the teaching effort.

Under the sponsorship of the Spiritual Assembly of Las Vegas, a project structure has evolved to harness the area’s resources; develop both an administrative and teaching structure capable of supporting entry by troops; and ensure wide participation.

Task forces already in operation for the project include fund-raising; media, which is developing a campaign consisting of billboards, bus stop shelter posters, radio and television advertisements, fliers and hand-outs; special events and exhibits; children’s classes; firesides and forums; race relations; consolidation; and a VIP committee.

A phone system to receive, screen and answer inquiries has been established, as has a computer bulletin board system.

San Jose Bahá’í honored

Anita Marie Montero, a Bahá’í from San Jose, California, has been honored by the Friends of the Human Relations Commission of Santa Clara County for her untiring efforts as a community-builder.

Mrs. Montero received a Special Merit Award during the 14th annual Human Relations Award Banquet in San Jose on February 24.

The longtime activist in the field of child abuse treatment was nominated for the award by the Spiritual Assembly of San Jose.

She has been involved in crisis intervention training, lobbying and administration. San Jose Bahá’ís also have been involved in mediation and conflict resolution through the Santa Clara Human Relations Commission.

More than 650 civic and religious leaders attended the banquet, which honored residents for their effort under the motto “Building Community: Value Diversity.”

San Jose Bahá’ís placed the open letter from the National Spiritual Assembly, “An Appeal to the Conscience of Humankind,” as a full-page advertisement in the banquet program. The appeal, co-signed by 40 distinguished Americans, highlights the plight of Bahá’ís in Iran and their persecution since the Islamic Republic was established 14 years ago.

Justice speaks on ‘Justice’

On April 30, the Bahá’ís of Detroit and Grosse Pointe, Michigan, co-sponsored a public talk by state Supreme Court Justice Conrad J. Mallett Jr. titled “Is Justice for All Possible?”

About 35 people, most of whom were not Bahá’ís, attended the talk. Justice Mallett spoke for about half an hour, then responded to questions for another hour. Guests also enjoyed refreshments and music by operatic soloist Jennifer Moss, accompanied by pianist Gary Ball.

Bahá’í bibliography displayed

A scholarly bibliography of the Bahá’í Faith was included in the first Library of Congress Professional Association Employees Book Showcase which was displayed in April and May.

The Library of Congress Professional Association—an association of staff at the library—decided this year to inaugurate a series of employee book showcases from among those authored by Library of Congress employees outside of their official duties during the past five years.

Among the 25 volumes chosen for the exhibit was William Collins’ Bibliography of English-Language Works on the Bábí and Bahá’í Faiths, 1844-1985 (Oxford: George Ronald, 1990).

The text accompanying the book in its display case notes that it is the most comprehensive bibliography of English-language Bahá’í publications. Mr. Collins compiled it during his 13 years as director of the Bahá’í International Library in Haifa, Israel.

‘Okies for Arc’ launched

Bahá’ís in Oklahoma have launched a campaign to raise money for the Arc Projects over and above the contributions individuals make to the various Funds.

The campaign, called “Okies for the Arc,” is sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Shawnee. The idea came out of consultations with Auxiliary Board members George Cooper and Firuz Mollaian.

The Oklahomans’ goal is to raise as many units of $9,000 as they can toward the $75 million needed for the Arc during the Three Year Plan, with the first unit to be completed by the anniversary of the Birth of Bahá’u’lláh this November.

A second, equally important goal is to foster unity and allow every Bahá’í in Oklahoma to take part.

When each $9,000 unit is collected, it will be sent directly to the Bahá’í World Center with a card that adequately conveys the friends’ love and support. The contribution will be from the Bahá’ís of Oklahoma as a whole.

The first receipt received from the World Center will be framed and hung in the Oklahoma City Bahá’í Center to serve as a permanent reminder of sacrifice and ultimate victory. Subsequent receipts can be similarly displayed in the other centers throughout Oklahoma.

Two fund-raising events, a potluck lunch and a dinner/auction, have been held. Other events will follow.

30 attend Belarus conference

About 30 Bahá’ís were among the more than 240 women and five men who attended Belarus’ first International Women’s Conference held April 8-10 in Brest. Olga Ruys, a pioneer to Belarus from Washington state, was one of the principal organizers of the conference.

Taking part were representatives from Ukraine, Poland, Russia, Lithuania, Canada, Holland, England, Belgium, Belarus, Panama and the U.S.

The conference provided many opportunities for teaching, and during its course four people declared their belief in Bahá’u’lláh.

After the conference, some of the Bahá’ís undertook teaching trips through parts of Belarus and Poland.

Correction

The booklet titled “The Bahá’í Question” (see The American Bahá’í, May 17, p. 31) is available only from the National Spiritual Assembly’s External Affairs Secretariat, 202-833-8990. It costs $1.50 per copy. The publication can be used as documentation of proof of persecution when a Bahá’í seeks refugee status overseas or seeks asylum in the United States.

Pictured are young Bahá’ís who took part in the first Bahá’í Youth Retreat sponsored by the Bahá’ís of Howard County, Maryland, and held last December 10 in Westminster. The focus of the three-day event was the elimination of all prejudices. About 50 young people from Maryland, Pennsylvania and Virginia shared their opinions and concerns as they worked together to confront America’s most challenging issue, presenting their ideas on ways to eliminate prejudices based on race, gender or age through skits, dances, songs and art. [Page 15]

A legacy of service

Bertha Hyde Kirkpatrick left indelible mark on World Order, Louhelen Bahá’í School

By Duane Herrmann

She earned a unique place in the literary and educational history of the American Bahá’í community. She played an important role in the development of two major Bahá’í publications and was among those who initiated an institution the Guardian would praise as a major educational and cultural center of the community. She won over to the Cause of God a Congregational minister who had spent years as an antagonist of the Faith, and she helped establish the first Spiritual Assembly of Ann Arbor, Michigan.

In spite of these and other accomplishments, Bertha Hyde Kirkpatrick remains almost unknown to today’s generation of Bahá’ís.

She was born June 16, 1874, in Rockville, Connecticut, into a devout Christian family—her father, Henry F. Hyde, was pastor of the Rockville Congregational Church. Bertha learned early in life that one’s belief must be supported by action, and that one’s first understanding of certain information was usually not the sort of mature understanding one might eventually attain.

Her father died when she was six years old, and she and her four siblings were left nearly destitute as her mother eked out a living by taking in boarders. Despite the struggle, four of the children eventually completed college including Bertha, who was graduated from Holyoke College in 1898 and spent the next 10 years as a science teacher at schools in Connecticut, New York and Pennsylvania.¹

History teacher

In 1908 Bertha moved to Topeka, Kansas, to help her brother, Arthur, who was teaching history at Washburn College and was left alone with a young son after the death of his wife that September. She was hired to teach science at Central Park Elementary School, where she remained for the next 11 years.

Also hired as a history teacher at Washburn College in 1908 was Dr. John E. Kirkpatrick, who became Arthur Hyde’s closest colleague on the faculty.

It is likely that Bertha’s sister, Mabel Hyde Paine, was the first of the two to learn of the Faith when she heard a talk by Lua Getsinger in Urbana, Illinois, in 1912. It could not have been long before she shared the news with Bertha, who was drawn to the Faith but puzzled.

Finally the realization dawned on her: here was the return of Christ. By 1915 both she and Mabel had accepted the Faith.²

Bertha was the second Bahá’í to reside in Topeka; the first, Rose Hilty, who had been there since 1906, returned in 1916 to her home town, Enterprise, Kansas. She and Bertha may not have known each other until later.

Bertha’s contacts with Bahá’ís in Urbana brought traveling teachers to Topeka, and by 1919, at the second “Bahá’í Teaching Convention of the Central States,” Albert Vail could report on “new and joyous groups” in several cities including Topeka.³

Petition to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

The group was fairly active, electing officers (Bertha served as treasurer) and contributing to Bahá’í Temple Unity [the forerunner of the National Spiritual Assembly].⁴ Also in 1919, Bertha signed a petition to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, along with some 1,130 other American Bahá’ís.⁵

Bertha left Topeka at the end of the 1921-22 school year and settled two years later in Olivet, Michigan, by this time married to Dr. John Kirkpatrick who was teaching at Olivet College. Before becoming a teacher, Dr. Kirkpatrick had been ordained a Congregational minister in Seabrook, Kansas (in 1895). When he first heard of the Faith, he found it strange and uncomfortable. He and Bertha agreed not to discuss religion.

To look further into the new religion, Dr. Kirkpatrick wrote to Neal Alter, the author of a recent thesis on the Faith. Mr. Alter’s reply was largely negative; the Bahá’ís of that time, who themselves had precious little knowledge of Bahá’í teachings or principles and accepted the Cause largely on faith, could not have comprehended his treachery or status as a Covenant-breaker. Mr. Alter’s conclusion that “Baha’ism is so vile...”⁶ stayed with Dr. Kirkpatrick to the end of his life.

Bertha would not compromise her beliefs, but in the early years of their marriage was not as involved in community activities as she had been. They agreed to disagree.

Dr. Kirkpatrick became ill in the late 1920s and by 1931 his condition was critical. He and Bertha traveled to Topeka to be near his family and doctor. Even after he was hospitalized the couple continued a practice they had begun earlier, studying both the Bible and the Bahá’í Writings, especially The Divine Art of Living, compiled by Bertha’s sister, Mabel Paine.

In a letter to a friend, Bertha wrote of her husband’s last days: “Before dawn on the day of his ascension I was called to his bedside. He signified his desire for pencil and paper. Slowly his weakened hand, unable to hold the pencil without aid, formed the almost illegible words, ‘One thing only, to be a good...’ Then for a moment there seemed to be a great influx of strength and spirit as with firm hand he completed the sentence with the word ‘Bahá’í’ in large clear letters.”⁷

A ‘radical change of heart’

It was his last significant communication; evidence of a radical change of heart and fulfillment of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s assurance to Bertha of a “spiritual victory.”⁸

That confirmation stimulated her to greater service in the Cause of God. That summer she was one of the Bahá’ís who planned the first session at the Louhelen Bahá’í School. She was appointed to the School Committee the following year, and reappointed every year for the rest of her life, serving for most of those 16 years as its secretary.

In that capacity Bertha wrote often to the Guardian to apprise him of plans, ask for guidance or report accomplishments. Most of his statements about the school are from letters written to her.

For a time during the winter of 1931-32 Bertha was the “resident teacher” in Ann Arbor to help its newly formed Assembly get under way. Besides serving on the Louhelen School Committee, she was appointed, from 1935-38, to the “Index Committee,” whose purpose was to compile or create a master index of the Bahá’í Writings, and, from 1938-40, to the Regional Teaching Committee of the Central States.

She had begun writing for the Bahá’í periodical “Star of the West” in 1927, and continued to do so as the name was changed first to “The Bahá’í Magazine” and then to “World Order.” In 1932 she was appointed “Assistant Editor,” and served for the next 15 years on its Editorial Board.

Most of Bertha’s articles were signed simply “B.H.K.” Her literary abilities were further recognized in 1940 when she was asked to help with the production of volumes of The Bahá’í World, beginning with Vol. IX. She served in that capacity until the end of her life.

Auto accident is fatal

To her last days Bertha’s efforts were in service to the Cause of God. On Sunday, May 15, 1948, while returning home to Olivet from a Louhelen School Committee meeting, her car, in which she was a passenger, went out of control and veered into an approaching car. Three people died instantly, and Bertha died four days later of internal injuries.⁹ Her services of more than 30 years to the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh had come to an end.

Bertha Hyde Kirkpatrick’s contributions to the American Bahá’í community were many and varied. How many souls did she help deepen and confirm through her articles in “World Order” magazine? What would the Bahá’í community of Ann Arbor be like today were it not for her invaluable help in establishing its Assembly? And what would the American Bahá’í community be without the Louhelen school? All of these stand as testimonies to her years of devoted service to the Cause.

NOTES

1. Mabel H. Paine, “Tribute to Bertha Hyde Kirkpatrick,” unpublished manuscript in the author’s possession courtesy of Sylvia Parmelee, pp. 1-2. 2. Ibid., p. 2. 3. “Star of the West,” July 13, 1919, p. 132. 4. Bahá’í Temple Unity financial ledger, “Topeka, 1919-1920,” National Bahá’í Archives. 5. “Star of the West,” August 1, 1919, p. 161. 6. S. Neal Alter to John E. Kirkpatrick, January 28, 1924, in the author’s possession courtesy of Sylvia Parmelee. 7. Bertha H. Kirkpatrick, “Excerpt from a letter about John to a friend,” December 20, 1931, in the author’s possession courtesy of Sylvia Parmelee. 8. “‘Abdu’l-Bahá to several Bahá’ís in the west,” July 24, 1919, Bertha Hyde Kirkpatrick papers, National Bahá’í Archives. 9. Olivet Optic, May 20 and 27, 1948. [Page 16]

یادآوری ‎REMIDER REMINDER‎ به آگاهی خوانندگان عزیز می‌رسد که مقالات یا نامه‌هایی که دوستان به بخش فارسی این نشریه می‌فرستند، نمودار دانش و پژوهش و سلیقه شخصی نویسندگان است و درج آن در صفحات فارسی "آمریکین بهائی" الزاماً بدین معنی نیست که مفاد و مطالب آن مورد تأیید تشکیلات امری قرار گرفته است.

آثار مبارکه حضرت نقطه اولی

WRITINGS OF THE BAB نوشته دکتر آهنگ ربانی

(ادامه از شماره پیش)

حضرت نقطه اولی جل کبریائه علاوه بر این مقامات شامخه متعالیه در آثار متعددهٔ کثیره براهین قاطعهٔ حقانیت و دلائل حجیت مظاهر امرالله را با بیانی بدیع و لحنی محکم و مؤثر و متین بیان فرمودند، علی الخصوص نزول آیات الهی را از مطلع امر یزدانی اقوی دلیل و اجلی برهان معین نمودند و با نزول آن همه آیات مبارک جهان انسانی را برای پذیرش و ایمان و تمسک و توجه به جمال قدم جل جلاله آماده و مستعد ساختند و با نزول مناجات‌های دلنشین و روح افزا رسم و راه بندگی و شیوهٔ مسکینانه عرض حاجات را به بندگان آموختند. و بالاخره حضرتش جل کبریائه و پیروان فداکارش با قبول نفی و ‎اسرت اسارت‎ و زندانی و عسرت و ‎بالمال بالمآل‎ با جانبازی و شهادت مقامات رفیعه از خودگذشتگی و مراتب عالیهٔ فداکاری و جانبازی را به جهانیان تعلیم فرمودند.

۲- آثار مبارکهٔ متعالیه حضرت نقطه اولی جل ثنائه الاسنی

آثار کریمهٔ مقدسه نازل از کلک امنعش به قدری گسترده و پروسعت و به حدی متنوع و پرفصاحت اند که گمان نرود به زودی و آسانی به طبقه بندی و تنظیم آنها موفق شویم و احتمالاً نیازی هم به طبقه بندی آن آثار مبارکه احساس نشود، چه که هر یک از آثار مبارکه و آیات الهیه در هر موردی و در هر شأن و مقامی که نازل گردیده استقلال و جامعیت خویش را محفوظ و معلوم داشته و خواهد داشت. اگر در این مقاله آثار مبارکه در تحت عناوین کلی درآمده اند فقط به خاطر آن است که خوانندهٔ عزیز به سهولت به دریافت اطلاعاتی توفیق یابد.

قلم اعلی جل کبریائه در تجلیل و تعظیم و کثرت آثار مبارکه حضرت نقطه اولی جل ثنائه می فرماید، قوله العزیز الاحلی: "و از این غمام رحمت رحمانی این قدر نازل شده که هنوز احدی احصاء ننمود، چنانچه بیست مجلد الآن به دست می آید و چه مقدار که هنوز به دست نیامده و چه مقدار هم که تاراج شده و به دست مشرکین افتاده و معلوم نیست چه کرده اند." (کتاب مستطاب ایقان، ص ۱۸۳)

و حضرت ولی عزیز مکرم امرالله جل سلطانه می فرمایند: "ظهور حضرت باب از لحاظ علو آثار و وسعت و فسحت معانی منزله از کلک اطهر در تاریخ ادیان ماضیه بی مثل و نظیر است. آن وجود مبارک بنفسه الاقدس در ایام حبس ماکو شهادت می دهد که آیات و الواح صادر از براعهٔ اطهرش که از مقامات و مباحث مختلفه مرکب، تا آن زمان به بیش از پانصدهزار بیت بالغ می باشد."

با توجه به نصوص مبارکه واضح و آشکار است که آیات منیعه سابقهٔ حضرتش از حیث کثرت و تنوع مضامین از آثار باقی مانده از انبیای سلف به مراتب بیشتر و فراوان تر است.

۳- امتیاز خاص آثار مقدسه در این ظهور مبارک

همچنانکه در باب عظمت و امتیاز خاص کتاب مستطاب اقدس نیز مذکور گردید، در ظهورات سابقه و ادوار ماضیه آیات الهیه که بر مظاهر مقدسه نازل گشته، در زمان حیات عنصری آن وجودات مکرمه جمع و تدوین و تنظیم نشدند.

فی المثل تورات مقدس که وحی الهی است قرن ها بعد از رحلت حضرت موسی له المجد و الثناء بوسیلهٔ پیروانش تحریر و تألیف گردیدند. همچنین انجیل مجید حدود پنجاه یا شصت سال پس از شهادت حضرت مسیح جل ثنائه توسط پیروانش تحریر و تنظیم گشت.

قرآن کریم نیز حدود پانزده سال بعد از رحلت رسول اکرم (ص) در زمان خلافت عثمان بن عفان بوسیلهٔ مؤمنان جمع آوری و تنظیم گردید.

آثار رحمانیه در ظهورات گذشته هیچوقت به قلم مظهر مکرم امرالله نگاشته نگشت و در زمان حیات جسمانی آن وجودات مقدسه تحریر و تنظیم نیافت، بلکه مدت ها بعد از ایشان پیروان آنها به جمع آوری و تدوین آثار مبارکه پرداختند.

همچنانکه در باب کتاب مستطاب اقدس نیز در مقالهٔ مربوطه دانستیم، آثار متعالیهٔ مکرمهٔ حضرت نقطه اولی جل ثنائه اکثراً به قلم مبارک حضرتش مرقوم گردیده و آنچه را هم که کاتبین وحی القا فرمودند بعد از کتابت ملاحظه فرموده و سپس اجازهٔ صدور آنها را صادر می فرمودند.

فی المثل به موجب گواهی نبیل اعظم و تأیید حضرت ولی عزیز امرالله جل سلطانه حضرت نقطه اولی عز کبریائه کتاب مستطاب قیوم الاسماء، و تفسیر سورهٔ کوثر و تفسیر سورهٔ والعصر و رسالهٔ نبوت خاصه را به خط مبارک نازل فرمودند.

همچنین بسیار مشهور است و مورد اعجاب و حیرت حاضرین بوده که حضرتش جل جلاله به سرعت و بدون مکث و توقف بیانات نازله را تحریر می فرمودند.

۴- شؤون خمسه در آثار مقدسه حضرت نقطه اولی

حضرت نقطه اولی جل ثنائه آثار مکرمهٔ خویش را به پنج دسته مشخص تقسیم فرموده اند و آنها را شؤون خمسه نامیده اند:

۱- آیات که عبارتند از پیام الهی به دوستان و بندگان،

۲- مناجات که عبارتند از ابراز بندگی و عرض حاجات به بارگاه حضرت قاضی الحاجات،

۳- تفسیر که شرح غوامض بیانات الهیه و توضیح آیات متشابههٔ قرآنی و احادیث اسلامی است،

۴- خطبه ها و شؤون علمی که در تحمید و تمجید و تقدیس ذات حضرت منیع لایدرک و بیان دانائی و قدرت بی حد و سایر صفات متعالیهٔ مبارکهٔ یزدانی است،

۵- شؤون فارسی که مشتمل بر دلائل حقانیت انبیای الهی و علو و سمو آیات رحمانی است.

لازم به یادآوری است که مدت ها قبل از اظهار امر مبارک آیات الهیه از قلم مبارک حضرت رب اعلی عز کبریائه نازل گردیده است. از آثار مبارکهٔ قبل از اظهار امر می توان رسالهٔ مبارکهٔ سلوک را نام برد و چون در این رسالهٔ متعالیه عبارت "اطال الله بقائه" در حق جناب سید کاظم رشتی نازل گردیده، احتمالاً در زمان حیات آن بزرگوار جلیل القدر و در عتبات عالیات نازل گشته است.

در این رسالهٔ مبارکه که در سه صفحه مرقوم گردیده، کیفیت سلوک سالکین و روش و سبل طالبین بیان گشته و دربارهٔ اصول دیانت اسلام و مذهب شیعه و مطالب عرفانی و مضامین روحانی توضیحاتی عنایت شده.

دیگر از آثار مبارکهٔ قبل از اظهار امر مبارک تفسیر سورهٔ بقره است که جناب باب الباب در شب اظهار امر مکرم در طاقچه اتاق آن بیت مفخم زیارت نموده است. همانگونه که از آیات اولیهٔ آن تفسیر مفخم استنباط می شود نزول آن در ذیقعدهٔ ۱۲۵۹، یعنی شش ماه قبل از اظهار امر مبارک آغاز گردیده و در آن به شرح رؤیای خویش پرداخته که در عالم رؤیا ارض مقدس کربلا "ذره ذره" به حضور مبارکش آمده و حضرتش جل جلاله را از ارتحال جناب سید کاظم رشتی خبردار نمودند. و در نفس این تفسیر مبارکه می فرمایند که صدور این تفسیر روز بعد از این رؤیا آغاز گردید. قسمت هایی از آن قبل از ورود جناب باب الباب به شیراز پایان یافت و مابقی آن پیش از سفر مکه اتمام پذیرفت. این اثر مبارک جزء آثار و کتبی بود که در سفر حج به سرقت رفت ولکن خوشبختانه نسخه هائی از آن موجود می باشد.

۵- آثار مشهور حضرت نقطه اولی عز اسمه الاعلی

اکنون به معرفی آیات نازله از قلم اطهر حضرت نقطه اولی جل کبریائه پردازد:

۱- صحیفه مبارکه قیوم الاسماء

جمال قدم جل جلاله الافخم در تقدیر و تحسین و تکبیر این صحیفهٔ معظمۀ علیا می فرمایند، قوله العزیز المجید: "اول و اعظم و اکبر از جمیع کتب."

سورهٔ یوسف که سورهٔ قرآنی است یکی از لطیف ترین و شیواترین سوره های آن کتاب است که در مکه نازل گردیده و متضمن ۱۱۱ آیه است. شامل داستان شورانگیز اسارت و زندانی حضرت یوسف علیه السلام بوده و بلایای وارده بر آن حضرت شرح داده شده است. کتاب مستطاب قیوم الاسماء ظاهراً عبارت از تفسیر آیه های سورهٔ قرآنی است که به تفسیر سورهٔ یوسف یا احسن القصص نیز مشهور است.

نزول کتاب مجید قیوم الاسماء در شب مبارک پنجم جمادی الاولی ۱۲۶۰ و پس از اظهار امر مبارک به جناب ملا حسین بشرویه ای آغاز گردید و اولین سورهٔ کریمهٔ قیوم الاسماء که به سورهٔ الملک موسوم است در حضور جناب ملا حسین نازل گردیده. بقیه این کتاب منیع در چهل شب متوالی عز نزول یافت.

این صحیفه مبارکهٔ علیا حاوی ۱۱۱ سوره است. به عبارت دیگر در برابر هر آیهٔ سورهٔ قرآنی یک سورهٔ مستقل نازل گردیده که این کتاب کریم مجید مشتمل بر ۹۳۰۰ آیه است. وجه تسمیه این لوح منیع به قیوم الاسماء به آن جهت بوده که کلمه یوسف به حساب ابجدی مساوی ۱۵۶ و مطابق است با قیوم. [Page 17]مهمی در تعیین و ایجاد یک نظام حقوقی بین‌المللی ایفاء نماید.

شرکت فعالانه ایالات متحده گام مهم دیگری در راه ایجاد ساخت‌ها و روش‌هائی است که لازمه شکوفائی نظمی نوین و عادلانه و صلح‌دوستانه است. بهائیان در انتظارند که یک حکومت مشترک‌المنافع جهانی تأسیس شود که در آن همهٔ ملت‌ها و نژادها و عقیده‌ها و طبقه‌ها در آن به صورتی پایدار متحد باشند و در آن استقلال حکومت‌های عضو آن و آزادی شخصی و اقدامات افرادی که آن را تشکیل می‌دهند، کاملاً و مطمئناً ضمانت شود. آمریکا می‌باید که به ایفاء نقش رهبری خود در این کوشش تاریخی ادامه دهد.

یکصد و پنجاهمین سالگرد اظهار امر حضرت اعلی

150 TH CELEBRATION OF DECLARATION OF THE BAB

روز ۲۲ می سال جاری جلسه‌ای در محل مشرق‌الاذکار آمریکا برای بزرگداشت صد و پنجاهمین سالگرد اظهار امر حضرت باب تشکیل شد.

حدود هزار نفر در سالن زیرین مشرق‌الاذکار حضور داشتند. حاضران دو صف تشکیل دادند و از پله‌هائی که در دو طرف سالن جا دارد بالا رفتند و وارد سالن اصلی ام‌المعابد غرب شدند.

شرکت‌کنندگان گروه گروه قدم بر فرشی گذاشتند که روی آن یک میز و دو شمعدان بلند نهاده شده بود. در وسط میز نقاشی شمایل حضرت باب قرار داده شده بود. این شمایل از سال ۱۹۴۴ که در آن سالگرد قرن اول دور بهائی جشن گرفته شد، در معرض تماشای یاران قرار نگرفته بود.

حاضران تحت تأثیر فضای جلسه قرار گرفته بودند. برخی به آرامی می‌گریستند؛ برخی برق شوق در چشم داشتند؛ برخی نیز در بحر تأمل فرو رفته بودند.

پس از آنکه همه نشستند گروه آواز دسته جمعی مشرق‌الاذکار به رهبری آقای تام پرایس Tom Price قطعاتی از آثار مبارکه از جمله آیهٔ "هل من مفرج غیر الله" و فقرهٔ کلمات مکنونه "کدام عاشق جز در وطن محبوب محل گیرد" را اجراء کردند.

سپس زیارت‌نامهٔ مبارک به دو زبان انگلیسی و عربی تلاوت شد.

در بخش نخستین این جلسه که در سالن زیرین مشرق‌الاذکار برگزار می‌شد، برنامه‌ای ترتیب داده شده بود که در طی آن حاضران فضای تاریخی زمان اظهار امر حضرت نقطه اولی را به یاد آوردند.

بخش مربوط به شب اظهار امر حضرت رب اعلی از کتاب تاریخ نبیل زرندی به سمع دوستان رسید و فقراتی از آثار مبارکه حضرت بهاء‌الله و حضرت باب و حضرت عبدالبهاء و حضرت شوقی ربانی دربارهٔ مقام حضرت نقطه اولی تلاوت گردید.

سپس فقرهٔ "از تو تا رفرف امتناع قرب" از کلمات مکنونه فارسی حضرت بهاء‌الله توسط گروه خوانندگان اجراء شد و آنگاه همهٔ حاضران به سالن اصلی مشرق‌الاذکار در طبقه بالا رفتند.

در بخش پذیرائی که در طبقهٔ تحتانی صورت می‌گرفت، چند تن از خردسالان بهائی کارت‌هائی را که به مناسبت سالگرد اظهار امر حضرت باب تهیه کرده بودند، به اعضای محفل روحانی ملی هدیه کردند.

کنفرانس مجمع دوستداران فرهنگ ایرانی

FRIENDS OF PERSIAN CULTURE CONFERENCE

چهارمین کنفرانس مجمع دوستداران فرهنگ ایرانی از ۲۶ تا ۳۰ ماه می سال جاری در شکوکی Skokie، یکی از شهرهای حومه شیکاگو برگزار شد.

حدود ۶۰۰ نفر در این کنفرانس شرکت کردند. دانشمندانی چون دکتر فیروز کاظم‌زاد و دکتر حشمت مؤید سخنرانی‌های مفیدی ایراد کردند و هنرمندانی چون خانم ماه مهر گلستانه و جناب هوشنگ سیحون برنامه‌های جالبی ارائه نمودند.

گزارش مفصل این کنفرانس در شمارهٔ بعدی "امریکن بهائی" درج خواهد شد.

تصحیح ‎CORRCTION CORRECTION‎ جزوهٔ موسوم به "مسألهٔ بهائیان" Bahá’í Question فقط از طریق دفتر امور خارجی محفل روحانی ملی در دسترس قرار دارد. قیمت آن ۱/۵ دلار است و می‌توان از آن بعنوان مدرک تضییقات احباء برای کسانی که در کشورهای خارج یا در ایالات متحده تقاضای پناهندگی می‌کنند، استفاده کرد. علاقه‌مندان می‌توانند جزوهٔ مذکور را تلفنی سفارش دهند. ۸۹۹۰-۸۳۳ (۲۰۲)

در میدان خدمت

SERVING THE CAUSE

اخیراً در سه جامعهٔ امری موفقیت‌هائی به دست آمده است که شرح آن در زیر به آگاهی یاران خواهد رسید. در هر یک از این موارد هنگامی که یاران فرصت مناسب را یافتند، با دفتر امور خارجی محفل روحانی ملی تماس حاصل کردند و سپس اقدام لازم را به عمل آوردند.

شارلتس‌ویل، ویرجینیا

محفل روحانی شارلتس‌ویل Charlottesville و کلوپ بهائی دانشگاه ویرجینیا دانستند که باید هر طور شده به سخنان سفیر ایران در سازمان ملل پاسخی بدهند. سفیر مذکور از جانب یکی از سازمان‌های دانشجوئی دعوت شده بود که سخنانی ایراد کند.

احباء با هدایت محفل روحانی ملی نامه‌ای خطاب به رئیس دانشگاه مذکور و یکی از نشریات دانشگاه نوشتند. سپس با آقای کمال خرازی، سفیر ایران روبرو شدند و سؤالاتی مطرح نمودند.

در نامهٔ خطاب به رئیس دانشگاه جزئیات مربوط به تضییقات بهائیان ایران از جمله اعدام‌ها و موارد نقض حقوق بشر و تخریب اماکن مقدسه و گلستان‌های جاوید مذکور شده بود. همچنین در نامهٔ مذکور آمده بود که دعوت از سفیر ایران توسط دانشگاه ویرجینیا ممکن است به جای توجه بیشتر به نیاز مربوط به آگاهی مردم نسبت به مظالم مذکور بعنوان بالا بردن موقعیت دولت ایران تعبیر شود.

رئیس دانشگاه در پاسخ به نامهٔ بهائیان تذکر داده بود که دهشت و انزجار احباء را درک می‌کند و اظهار کرده بود که دعوت از سفیر ایران نباید بهیچوجه به معنای تأیید دولت ایران یا مبادرت آن به نقض حقوق گروه‌های مختلف باشد. همچنین در نامهٔ رئیس دانشگاه آمده بود که دعوت از سفیر ایران از جانب یکی از سازمان‌های دانشجوئی به عمل آمده بود و باید آزادی بیانش تضمین می‌شد.

در نامهٔ احباء به نشریه دانشگاه ‎Univesity Journal University Journal‎ نیز ذکر تضییقات احبای ایران به میان آمده و اظهار شده بود که این وقایع می‌باید برای کسانی که از آن آگاه نیستند بازشمرده شود.

همیلتن تاون‌شیپ، نیوجرزی

احبای همیلتن تاون‌شیپ Hamilton Township در نیوجرزی بر آن شدند که تأثیر سخنان سخنگوی گروه موسوم به "ملت اسلام" The Nation of Islam را خنثی کنند.

سخنگوی مذکور که نامش خالد عبدالمحمد است مطالب بحث‌انگیزی اظهار کرده بود و یاران پس از کسب اجازه از محفل روحانی ملی بیانیه‌ای با عنوان "تعصب نژادی و سخنان نفرت‌انگیز همواره اشتباه است" امضاء کردند که به صورت اعلان یک صفحه‌ای در روزنامهٔ تایمز آن شهر (The Times) منتشر شد.

در این بیانیه از مردم خواسته شده بود که در یک گردهم‌آئی که همزمان با سخنرانی آقای محمد تشکیل می‌شد شرکت کنند. چند تن از احباء در این گردهم‌آئی شرکت جستند.

قرار است محفل روحانی همیلتن تاون‌شیپ مقاله‌ای دربارهٔ مشکلات نژادی در روزنامهٔ تایمز به چاپ برساند.

دیرفیلدبیچ، فلوریدا

هنگامی که ۲۷ نفر از رهبران سیاسی و دینی و تجاری دیرفیلدبیچ Deerfield Beach در ماه مارچ سال جاری از عکا دیدار کردند که موافقت‌نامه‌ای با آن شهر به امضاء رساندند، با استقبال گرم مرکز جهانی بهائی روبرو شدند.

محفل روحانی دیرفیلدبیچ از دیرگاه روابط حسنه‌ای با جامعهٔ غیربهائی و سازمان‌های آن برقرار کرده بود و پس از اینکه خبر موافقت‌نامه رسید محفل مذکور نامه‌ای به محفل روحانی ملی و بیت‌العدل اعظم راجع به شرکت احباء در این رویداد فرستاد.

در نتیجه سه تن از احبای دیرفیلدبیچ به همراهی هم‌شهریان‌شان رهسپار عکا شدند و اماکن مقدسه بهائی را به آنان نشان دادند.

یک هفته پیش از این دیدار محفل روحانی دیرفیلدبیچ جلسه‌ای تشکیل داد که در آن یک برنامهٔ اسلاید ارض اقدس به مدت ۲۰ دقیقه نشان داده شد. پس از رجوع احباء، از آنان خواسته شد در دو جلسه که حدود ۴۰۰ نفر در آن شرکت داشتند، سخنانی ایراد کنند.

حقوق‌الله از دوستان عزیز مستدعی است تقدیمی‌های حقوق‌الله را در وجه Bahá’í Huqúqu’lláh Trust به نشانی یکی از امنای حقوق‌الله ارسال فرمایند. Dr. Amin Banani Santa Monica, CA. 90402 Dr. Daryush Haghighi Rocky River, OH. 44116 Dr. Elsie Austin 9039 Sligo Creek Parkway, #612 Silver Spring, MD. 20901

[Page 18]

پیام دارالانشاء بیت العدل اعظم

MESSAGE FROM THE WORLD CENTER مورخ ۱۶ می ۱۹۹۴

بیت العدل اعظم مقرر فرمودند که بشارت ذیل به احبای عزیز ایرانی ابلاغ گردد:

چنانچه قبلاً به اطلاع احبای الهی رسیده، معهد اعلی دستور فرمودند که پس از انتشار ترجمۀ کتاب مستطاب اقدس به زبان انگلیسی این سفر جلیل با کلیۀ ملحقات و توضیحات و یادداشت‌ها به سایر السنه ترجمه و طبع و نشر گردد.

حال طبق این دستور مبارک نسخۀ کامل این کتاب مستطاب برای احبای فارسی زبان در شرف تهیه و امید است که در آتیۀ نزدیکی به طبع رسیده در دسترس هم‌وطنان جمال قدم قرار گیرد.

قسمتی از ملحقات و رسالۀ سؤال و جواب به زبان فارسی نازل شده و بقیۀ آن یعنی مقدمه و جزوۀ تلخیص حدود و احکام و قسمت توضیحات و یادداشت‌ها کلاً به زبان فارسی ترجمه خواهد گردید، ولی ترجمۀ متن کتاب اقدس و سایر آثار عربی طبق دستور مولای عزیز حضرت ولی امرالله مجاز نیست و احبای عزیز ایرانی باید سعی کنند که لغت فصحی را تعلیم گیرند تا عظمت و جلال آیات مبارکه و قدرت بیان و فصاحت کلام جمال قدم را به قدر مقدور درک فرمایند و اگر این امر در این ایام میسر نیست اقلاً معانی کلمات را بفهمند و از تلاوت آیات مبارکه مستفیض گردند.

به ضمیمه محض اطلاع یاران الهی چند فقره از بیانات مبارکة حضرت ولی امرالله در این مورد ارسال می‌شود تا این مطلب کاملاً روشن گردد و احباء مبادرت به تهیه و نشر ترجمه متن کتاب اقدس به زبان فارسی ننمایند. هر چند در هنگام تدریس و تعلیم آیات الهیه به زبان عربی می‌توان از مضمون بیانات مبارکه به فارسی استفاده نمود، اما چاپ و انتشار آن‌ها به صورت جداگانه جائز نیست.

ضمیمه دارد.

مجموعه‌ای از بیانات مبارکة حضرت ولی امرالله راجع به ترجمة آثار مبارکه از عربی به فارسی

۱- "احبای فارس را باید آشنا به ادعیه و نماز عربی نمود که به لغت اصلی که لغت فصحی است تلاوت نمایند." (استخراج از توقیع مبارک مورخ ۱۹۳۰/۱۱/۱۱)

۲- "ترجمۀ آیات الهیه که به لغت فصحی نازل، ترجمه و طبعش به لغت فارسی محبوب نه. اکتفاء به لغت اصلیه نمایند." (استخراج از توقیع مبارک مورخ ۱۹۳۲/۵/۲۷)

۳- "از قبل اشاره و تاکید گشت که ترجمۀ آثار عربیه به لغت نورا، ممدوح و مقبول نه، علی الخصوص احکام کتاب اقدس و ادعیه و صلوات. باید اطفال را از صغر سن به لغت عربی آشنا نمود و تعلیم داد، زیرا لغت اصلی تأثیری کلی و حلاوتی دیگر دارد." (استخراج از توقیع مبارک مورخ ۲۳ جولای ۱۹۳۲)

۴- "راجع به سؤال ثالث، ترجمۀ نماز در ایران به لغت فارسی جائز نه." (استخراج از توقیع مبارک مورخ ۱۹۴۸/۴/۱)

۵- "راجع به لوح مبارک احمد و تلاوت ترجمۀ فارسی آن فرمودند بنویس: ترجمه قشر است و اصل لبّ. اکتفاء به اصل نمایند و به لغت فصحی به کمال توجه و ابتهال این لوح مبارک را تلاوت نمایند و به اطفال نیز تعلیم دهند." (استخراج از توقیع مبارک مورخ ۲۷ مارس ۱۹۴۰)

۶- "راجع به نشر بعضی الواح و ادعیه مبارکه و اعراب آن، این فقره مورد تصویب حضرتشان گردید و تاکید فرمودند این الواح مخصوصه و ادعیه مبارکه را ترجمه ننمایند؛ به اصل اکتفاء نمایند و آن را انتشار دهند و در اعراب و تفهیم عبارات و کلمات آن الواح منیعه همت بلیغ مبذول دارند." (استخراج از توقیع مبارک مورخ ۳ می ۱۹۴۰)

۷- "در خصوص ترجمۀ صلوة بهائی به السن مختلفه فرمودند بنویس: ترجمه به فارسی جائز نه، ولی به لغات دیگر ممکن." (استخراج از توقیع مبارک مورخ ۱۸ ژانویه ۱۹۴۳)

اظهارات نماینده محفل ملی در مقابل کمیسیون روابط خارجی سنای آمریکا

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY TESTIFIES BEFORE SENATE ‎FORIEGN FOREIGN‎ RELATIONS COMMITTEE

نماینده محفل روحانی ملی روز ۱۱ ماه می سال جاری در کمیسیون روابط خارجی مجلس سنای آمریکا حضور یافت و در پشتیبانی از تصویب پیمان سازمان ملل متحد دربارۀ "الغای تبعیضات نژادی" توسط ایالات متحده گواهی داد.

جناب رابرت هندرسن، منشی محفل روحانی ملی از جانب آن محفل مقدس در جلسة کمیسیون روابط خارجی مجلس سنا سخن گفت.

جناب دکتر هندرسن یکی از اعضای هیئتی از گواهی دهندگان در جلسة مذکور بود. دیگر اعضای آن هیئت عبارت بودند از: آقای Wade هندرسن، مدیر دفتر انجمن ملی پیشرفت سیاهپوستان NAACP در واشنگتن؛ آقای رابرت دراینان Robert Drinan، استاد حقوق در دانشگاه جورج تاون Georgetown از جانب کانون وکلاء آمریکا؛ و آقای ویلیام لیک Lake، از یکی از دفاتر حقوقی و عضو هیئت مدیرۀ "مجمع حقوقی بین‌المللی حقوق بشر".

قبل از گواهی افراد مذکور چند تن از کارمندان عالی رتبة دوائر مختلف دولت آمریکا در جلسة کمیسیون شرکت کرده و شهادت داده بودند.

هدف از تصویب "پیمان الغای تبعیضات نژادی" آن است که معیاری بین‌المللی به دست داده شود که بر اساس آن تبعیضات مربوط به نژاد و قومیت و ملیت در تمامی جوانب زندگی از جمله در زمینه‌های سیاسی و فرهنگی و اجتماعی تحریم گردد. پیمان مذکور همچنین برابری مردمان را در رابطه با حقوق مربوط به زمینه‌های مذکور تضمین می‌نماید.

در اثر تصویب پیمان مذکور هیئتی با عنوان "کمیسیون الغای تبعیضات نژادی" تشکیل خواهد شد که تحقق معیار مذکور را ضمانت کند و انتشار دهد.

در ماه می سال ۱۹۹۲ دفتر محفل روحانی ملی در واشنگتن از نمایندگان سازمان‌های علاقه مند به الغای تبعیضات نژادی دعوت کرده بود که هیئتی تشکیل دهند که فعالیت سازمان‌های غیردولتی را در مورد حمایت از تصویب پیمان مذکور هماهنگ کند. هیئت مذکور مرکب بود از: کانون وکلای آمریکا، مجمع حقوقی بین‌المللی حقوق بشر، سازمان عفو بین‌المللی، کمیته وکلاء، هوادار حقوق بشر، انجمن ملی آموزش و پرورش و دیگر سازمان‌ها.

در اکتبر سال ۱۹۹۳ نمایندگان محفل روحانی ملی از سازمان‌های مهم حقوق مدنی مانند انجمن ملی پیشرفت سیاهپوستان NAACP درخواست پشتیبانی کردند و نامه‌ای به معاون وزارت امور خارجة آمریکا نوشتند که به امضای ۳۸ سازمان حامی تصویب پیمان مذکور رسیده بود و با کارکنان کاخ سفید و وزارت امور خارجه و کارمندان کنگرة ایالات متحده ملاقات کردند.

مجمع حقوقی بین‌المللی حقوق بشر - که از یک دفتر حقوقی درخواست کرده بود که تجزیه و تحلیلی حقوقی از پیمان الغای تبعیضات نژادی به عمل آورد - با همکاری نمایندگان محفل روحانی ملی جلساتی با کارمندان وزارت امور خارجه و نمایندگان سازمان‌های غیردولتی تشکیل دادند که در آن مسائل مربوط به تصویب پیمان مذکور مورد مذاکره قرار گیرد.

ترجمة فارسی اظهارات جناب دکتر هندرسن در جلسة کمیسیون روابط خارجی در زیر درج می‌گردد:

تعصبات نژادی مهم‌ترین مشکلی است که آمریکا با آن روبرو شده است. تعصبات نژادی وهنی بر حیثیت آدمی و باعث نفرت و نفاق است، مرضی است که جامعه را به ویرانی می‌کشاند. محفل روحانی ملی بهائیان ایالات متحده صریحاً از تصویب پیمان بین‌المللی الغای تبعیضات نژادی توسط ایالات متحده پشتیبانی می‌نماید.

پیشنهاد پیمانی خاص دربارة تبعیضات نژادی حاصل حوادث ضدیهودیان در اروپای غربی در طی زمستان سال ۱۹۶۰ و خاطرات مربوط به قلع و قمع یهودیان بود. در عین حال حکومت‌های تازه به استقلال ‎رسيدة رسیده‎ افریقا نگران تبعیضات نژادی در قارۀ خود و نیز در آمریکای شمالی بودند. امروز آتش تعصبات نژادی و قومی بار دیگر در قلب اروپا و افریقا در گرفته و نیاز به بازتاب جهانی را مورد تاکید قرار داده است.

پیمان مذکور که در سال ۱۹۶۶ به امضای ایالات متحده رسید تعریفی حقوقی برای "تبعیض نژادی" به دست می‌دهد. حال حدود ۳۰ سال پس از امضای آن پیمان قوانین ایالات متحده عموماً با پیمان مذکور مطابقت دارد. لازم است که این پیمان به تصویب ایالات متحده برسد تا تعهد این کشور را به الغای تعصبات نژادی و حل اختلافات نژادی و قومی هم در داخل آمریکا و هم در خارج آن به جهان نشان دهد.

دو سال پیش بود که با وحشت شاهد اعمال خشونت بار و آتش‌سوزی‌های لوس آنجلس بودیم. صلح و سعادت آمریکا و موقعیت آن در جهان بسته به درمان زخم‌های ناشی از تعصبات نژادی و ایجاد جامعه‌ای است که در آن همة مردم بدون در نظر گرفتن رنگ و قومیت و ملیت و دین مانند اعضای یک خانواده زندگی کنند.

راه حل دراز مدت برای برخوردهای نژادی و قومی مستلزم چشم‌اندازی همه‌جانبه از یک جامعة جهانی است که قوانین بین‌المللی از آن حمایت نماید و محدودیتی برای حکومت ملی تلقی نشود و حقانیت آن را تهدید ننماید، بلکه اساسی برای مرحلة بعدی تحولات سیاسی جهان باشد. ایالات متحده با وفاداری به سنت دیرین خود در مورد صلح جهانی و حقوق بشر باید سهم [Page 19]

Cult reference corrected by Omaha Bahá’ís

When the Spiritual Assembly of Omaha, Nebraska, learned that a campus Christian newsletter had included the Bahá’í Faith on a list of "cults active on college campuses," it sprang into action.

That diligence was rewarded with an apology and a promise that "if there is anything we can do to encourage your group, we would like to know."

The offending article had been compiled by a speaker on the University of Nebraska-Omaha campus and was printed in the February issue of The Campus Crossroads, a newsletter of the United Christian Ministries in Higher Education.

The Spiritual Assembly of Omaha immediately wrote to the Rev. Darrel Berg, campus pastor for United Christian Ministries in Higher Education, and Barb Deats, editor of The Campus Crossroads.

"We were deeply saddened," the Assembly wrote, "to see the Bahá’í Faith listed [among cults]. ...The central theme of the message of Bahá’u’lláh is the oneness of God, the oneness of religion and the oneness and unification of the entire human race as members of one physical and spiritual family."

The Assembly extended an invitation to study the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh and requested "that you consider a retraction of your published statement. ..."

Enclosed with the letter was literature giving a brief overview of the Faith.

The Rev. Berg quickly responded with an assurance that an apology would be printed in the next issue of the newsletter.

He wrote that he himself was "saddened that Bahá’í was listed along with certain cults that are as far removed from Bahá’í as the north pole is from the south. ...Our mistake was in failing to edit the list before publishing it."

The Rev. Berg added that he has good friends who are Bahá’ís and knows the Faith "to be one of the truly inclusive religious fellowships."

In a follow-up letter, the Spiritual Assembly thanked the Rev. Berg for his attention and consideration. The Assembly further expressed its hope "that there will be opportunities for these two college groups to assist and encourage one another."

Proclamation to churches helps Bahá’ís dispel own, others’ notions

Contact with Christian churches in Fairfax County East, Virginia, has benefited the Bahá’í community in more ways than one.

The Bahá’ís have been able to present several churches with lovely scrolls of Bahá’u’lláh’s Tablet to the Christians and copies of the Statement on Bahá’u’lláh. The three-foot-long parchment scrolls are rolled on two stained dowels and encased in a green felt bag.

In addition, the visits have helped Bahá’ís break down their own negative perceptions of these churches.

And the act of shared worship has provided a means for all in the Bahá’í community—even those with language barriers—to take part in the work of the Faith.

Fairfax County East began the campaign in January by sending to 44 churches a letter accompanied by Bahá’u’lláh’s tribute to Christ (Gleanings, No. 36).

Follow-up calls were made soon afterward. Thus far, the Bahá’ís have visited area Christian Science, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (Mormon) and United Methodist churches.

In a typical visit, the Bahá’í group makes a presentation to the church or its leader, then joins in the congregation’s worship service.

The reception has been overwhelmingly warm and positive.

Christian Science church leaders asked questions of the Bahá’ís in private, specifically asking a Persian woman about the persecutions in Iran. They indicated the books presented to them would be placed in the church library for all to enjoy.

Bahá’ís were invited to dinner with the Mormon elders and learned much about that denomination’s focus on the family. They also shared with Bishop J.D. Evans the message of his Lord’s return and asked him to pray about it.

At the Methodist church, the Bahá’ís attended on a Sunday in which the minister preached on how Christ might appear unexpectedly in some other form.

Thomases persevere, help form Assembly

Perseverance has its rewards.

Bahá’ís Russ and Laurie Thomas found out in February that Russ’s separation from the military was imminent.

That meant quickly finding new work and a new place to live. Talk about stress.

But the Thomases (son Andrew is 4 years old) were determined to turn setback into opportunity.

So Russ, a licensed practical nurse, started to hunt far and wide for a challenging position in a goal community where they could serve the Faith as homefront pioneers.

And a solution soon presented itself. Russ was hired to work in psychiatric nursing at the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Veterans Hospital in Montrose, New York.

"We turned the whole thing over to Bahá’u’lláh," said Russ. "Now I have the perfect job and we’re renting the perfect home in the perfect neighborhood."

That neighborhood is in nearby Newburgh. This Ridván, with the addition of the Thomases and another couple, Newburgh was able to form a local Spiritual Assembly.

The other couple? David S. Ruhe, retired member of the Universal House of Justice, and his wife, Margaret K. Ruhe.

Phoenix-area Bahá’ís reaching Hispanics through radio, center

A combination of group and individual initiative is allowing the Bahá’ís of metropolitan Phoenix, Arizona, to reach many of the 700,000 Spanish-speaking people in the state with El Proyecto Enseñanza Teresita.

Area Bahá’ís raised close to $5,000 to air five Bahá’í spots on Radio Campesina KNAI-FM each day for three months. Seekers often mentioned having heard the radio messages.

Bahá’ís in Mesa rented a room in an office building to serve as a teaching center. The center is located close to a goal Hispanic neighborhood. That means the local seekers and believers, many of whom lack transportation, can walk to it.

On an individual level, a Bahá’í has started a sister project called Akka to spread the Faith in her central Phoenix neighborhood. This project consists of Unity Feasts, firesides and door-to-door teaching of Hispanics, African-Americans and American Indians.

As a result of these initiatives, more than 50 declarations of faith have been won thus far in Mesa, Avondale, Phoenix and Scottsdale.

The teaching doesn’t stop there, of course.

New declarants as well as seekers are visited regularly by Bahá’ís and presented with passages from the Writings to deepen on and memorize together with their Bahá’í teachers.

Children’s classes also have been implemented all over the area.

A need for more participation in the project continues to exist. Language is not a barrier, but there are too few bilingual Bahá’ís in the area. For more information, contact Ruth de Vargas at 602-892-4278.

Former pioneer to East Africa dies at 89

Allen Elston, a former pioneer to Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania, died April 22 in Ukiah, California. He was 89 years old.

Mr. Elston, who was born in Hawaii, and his wife, Marye, arose in the Seattle, Washington, area during the Ten Year Crusade to pioneer to East Africa, arriving in Uganda in January 1953. After five years in Uganda and another in Kenya, they settled in Tanzania, where both served for several years on the National Spiritual Assembly.

After 13 years in Africa, Marye’s health made it necessary for the Elstons to return to the U.S. Mrs. Elston died in 1974 during a trip to Hawaii to visit Allen’s family.

The next year Mr. Elston pioneered again, this time to Mexico. He and his second wife, Evelia, remained there until 1983, when they moved to Arizona, then to California.

IN MEMORIAM

Ann B. Allen Warwick, RI April 20, 1994	Bernard Pretends Eagle Ft. Yates, ND April 24, 1994	Lillian S. Gay El Sobrante, CA February 1993	Mary R. Robbins Washington, DC April 18, 1994
Ali Behjat Santa Clara, CA March 9, 1994	Walter F. Fisher Lincoln Park, MI April 20, 1994	Fanny Mae Griffin Warner Robins, GA 1994	Lillian Stephens Aurora, IL May 9, 1994
Etta J. Catlin Detroit, MI April 10, 1994	Helen Gardner Elloree, SC April 1994	Leonard Jack Mission, SD May 9, 1994	Bernyce Stilwell Citrus Heights, CA December 25, 1993
Richard Curren Peoria, IL May 7, 1994

[Page 20]

Calendar

Pictured is a group of Bahá’ís from Florida and Georgia including 10 gospel singers who took part April 12-18 in celebrations marking the 45th anniversary of the establishment of the Faith in Spanish Town, Jamaica. Also pictured (second from right in the front row) is the Custos (representative) of St. Catherine, Jamaica, the Hon. Gladstone Edwards. The mayor of Spanish Town, Jennifer Edwards, proclaimed the week ‘Bahá’í Week’ in that city.

MOVING? TELL US YOUR NEW ADDRESS.		To avoid unnecessary delays in receiving your copy of The American Bahá’í, send your new address and your mailing label to MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, as soon as you know what your new address will be.		This form may be used for one person or your entire family. Please be sure to list FULL NAMES AND I.D. NUMBERS for all individuals, ages 15 years or older, who will be affected by this change.
A. NAME(S):
1.	I.D. #	Title	2.	I.D. #	Title
3.	I.D. #	Title	4.	I.D. #	Title
B. NEW RESIDENCE ADDRESS:			C. NEW MAILING ADDRESS:
Street address			P.O. Box or Other mailing address
Apartment # (If applicable)			Apartment # (If applicable)
City			City
State	Zip code		State	Zip code
D. NEW COMMUNITY:			E. HOME TELEPHONE NUMBER:
Name of new Bahá’í Community	Moving date		Area code	Phone number	Name
F. WORK TELEPHONE NUMBER(S):
Area code	Phone number	Name	Area code	Phone number	Name
G. WE RECEIVE EXTRA COPIES BECAUSE:			H. I WOULD LIKE A COPY:
[ ] we do not have the same last name. [ ] We do not want extra copies, so please cancel the copy for the person(s) and I.D. number(s) listed above. [ ] the last names and addresses on our address labels do not match. We have listed above the full names of all family members as they should appear on the national records, their I.D. numbers, and the corrections so that we will receive only one copy.			[ ] Our household receives only one copy of The American Bahá’í. I wish to receive my own copy. I have listed my name, I.D. number and address above.

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

RAHMAT B.E. 151 / JUNE 24, 1994

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

JULY

1-4: Persian-American Conference, Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 810-653-5033.

1-4: Media/Communications Conference, “Everything You Want to Know About Media,” Loews Hotel/Vanderbilt Plaza, Nashville, Tennessee. Sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Nashville and Pavon Media International. For information, phone 310-652-3983.

1-5: North Carolina Summer School. Registrar: Maria Hillis, Wilson, NC 27893; phone 910-291-1187.

2: Memorial “Potlatch” in the Tlingit-Tagish tradition for Mark Shoghi Anderson, Sylvan Lake Bahá’í Center, Alberta, Canada. For information, contact Ted Anderson, 403-347-4230.

2-7: General Session, “Historical Perspective on the Tablets of the Divine Plan,” “Blessings & Bounties,” Bosch Bahá’í School. Also, Core Curriculum training (with Sharon Jensen and Robin Evans). For information, phone 408-423-3387; fax 408-423-7564.

2-8: Washington (East)/Idaho (North) School. Registrar: Shannon McConnell, Richland, WA 99352; phone 509-943-1236.

3: 25th anniversary Roundup/Reunion celebrating the formation of the Spiritual Assembly of Idaho Falls, Idaho. For information, write to the Assembly at 900 S. Emerson Avenue, Idaho Falls, ID 83404, or phone 208-522-0333.

8-10: Hemlock Haven Bahá’í School and Youth Retreat, Hungry Mother State Park, Marion, Virginia. For information, phone Brenda Price, 703-626-3619.

8-13: Conference for Bahá’í Educators, Louhelen Teacher Training Center, to plan strategies for introducing Bahá’í concepts and principles in schools and colleges throughout the country. For registration information, please phone Dr. Barbara Johnson, 313-653-5033, between 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Eastern time, or write to the Louhelen Bahá’í School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423.

9-14: General Session, “The Destiny of America: A Different View,” Bosch Bahá’í School. For information, phone 408-423-3387; fax 408-423-7564.

9-August 7: Dr. Muhájir Teaching Project, sponsored by the National Spiritual Assembly of Grenada, covering small towns and villages around the island. For information, phone the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, 708-869-9039.

15-20: Bahá’í Youth Service Corps/Pioneering Institute, Louhelen Bahá’í School, Davison, Michigan. For information, phone 708-733-3511 (youth) or 708-733-3512.

16-21: General Session with David and Margaret Kunze Ruhe, Bosch Bahá’í School. Also, third summer of Bosch Research Institute. For information, phone 408-423-3387; fax 408-423-7564.

17-24: “The Spiritual Transformation of the Huasteca,” an ongoing traveling teaching campaign in Ciudad Valles, San Luis Potosí, Mexico. Sponsored by the National Teaching Committee of Mexico. For information, phone or fax Mike Pietrzak, (01152) (892) 2-6902.

18-22: Wisconsin Summer School, Byron Center. Contact Lisa Reimer, West Bend, WI 53095 (phone 414-338-3023).

20-24: Illinois (Heartland) Bahá’í School, Knox College, Galesburg. Registrar: Carl Clingenpeel, Naperville, IL 60563; phone 708-961-9806.

20-24: “Two Years After UNCED: Exploring Partnerships for Sustainable Development,” Davenport, Iowa. Sponsored by the Citizens Network for Sustainable Development, the Stanley Foundation, and the Iowa Division of UNA-USA. Bahá’ís who plan to attend should contact the National Spiritual Assembly, Office of External Affairs, Washington, DC 20036 (phone 202-833-8990).

22-27: Family Session I, Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 810-653-5033.

23-28: General Session, “Midsummer Music,” “America’s Destiny,” “Documents of the Covenant,” Bosch Bahá’í School. For information: phone 408-423-3387; fax 408-423-7564.

28-31: Colorado (West)/Four Corners School, Camp Kiwanis (18 miles south of Gallup, New Mexico). Registrar: Bill Bright, 505-722-0039.

29-August 1: Maryland/Virginia summer school, Frostburg, MD. Registrar: Ingrid Olson, Herndon, VA 22070 (703-481-8393).

29-August 3: Family Session II, Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 810-653-5033.

30: Third 1994 quarterly Teaching Conference, “Promoting Entry by Troops,” Keystone, South Dakota. For information, contact Joseph Howell, Spearfish, SD 57783 (phone 605-642-4391).

30-August 4: Bosch Youth Institute, Bosch Bahá’í School. For information, phone 408-423-3387; fax 408-423-7564.

31-August 5: Montana Bahá’í School, Luccock Camp. Registrar: Linda Wanzenreid, Lewiston, MT 59457 (406-538-8047).

AUGUST

2-14: Bahá’í Summer Jamboree, Queen Charlotte Islands, Northwestern British Columbia, Canada. If you have a proposal for the Jamboree, please contact Leanne Boschman-Epp with a brief description: BC V8G 4V2, Canada (phone or fax 604-638-1287). For other information, contact Baxter Huston, BC V0T 1S0, Canada (phone 604-559-8242).

4-7: Texas Summer School, Bridgeport. Registrar: Randy Black, Friendswood, TX 77546 (phone 713-996-1935).

5-10: Family Session III, Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 810-653-5033.

6-11: Junior Youth Institute (ages 11-14), Bosch Bahá’í School. For information, phone 408-423-3387; fax 408-423-7564.