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[Page 1]TEACHING SPECIAL ISSUE THE FUNDS

THE American Bahá’í

Volume 26, Number 2
’Alá’ B.E. 151 / March 2, 1995

“...the Plan’s primary purpose is indispensable to the future of the Cause and of humankind. It is the next stage in the unfoldment of the divine charter of teaching penned by the Center of the Covenant. The Plan will be a measure of our determination to respond to the immense opportunities at this critical moment in the social evolution of the planet.” The Universal House of Justice, Ridván 1993

VISION IN ACTION MARCH TO VICTORY 3 YEAR PLAN 1993 - 1996 TRANSFORMATION AND GROWTH

NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHÁ’ÍS OF THE UNITED STATES 536 SHERIDAN ROAD, WILMETTE, ILLINOIS 60091 • (708) 869-9039 • CABLE: BAHAI WILMETTE

Love is the Secret

The heart’s desire of every Bahá’í is to help build the Kingdom of God’s heaven on earth. Our souls long to contribute some service or gift which speeds the completion of the Seat of God’s Throne. This is the enterprise to which “people of goodwill throughout the centuries have inclined their hearts, of which seers and poets for countless generations have expressed their vision, and for which from age to age the sacred scriptures of mankind have constantly held the promise. ...”

In our vision of the Kingdom every soul is loved and cared for, children are safe, families loving and happy. There is food, clean water to drink, and shelter from the cold and heat for everyone. The darkness of ignorant prejudices is banished. The oppressed are uplifted by true spiritual brothers and sisters who cannot bear the thought of their suffering. The misery and pain and the tyranny and injustice of a Godless world give way to the indomitable force of the Cause of God. The character of humankind is reshaped by alert and spiritually disciplined people who know God, follow His teachings, obey His laws and serve His institutions.

This is a new race of human beings who have learned that love is the great secret power of life; people who have built God’s Heavenly Kingdom in their hearts and are now building it in the world.

This vision is within our reach. The Arc on Mount Carmel is the Seat of God’s Throne. Its construction is a part of a “vast and irresistible process” that will synchronize with the maturation of national and local Spiritual Assemblies, and the establishment of the Lesser Peace. “The final establishment of this seat of the future Bahá’í Commonwealth,” writes Shoghi Effendi, “will signalize...the proclamation of the sovereignty of the Founder of our Faith and the advent of the Kingdom of the Father repeatedly lauded and promised by Jesus Christ.”

Building the Arc will complete the “metropolis of the Kingdom of God’s heaven on earth,” the administrative center for the universal salvation of humanity. It must be complemented by strong and mature Spiritual Assemblies, thriving Bahá’í communities, and spiritually vibrant Bahá’í families and individuals. All of this is needed to build the “Kingdom of the Father” on earth.

The spiritual keys to all we must do lie in the secret powers of love and unity. Bahá’u’lláh, Himself, states that “if the learned and worldly-wise men of this age were to allow mankind to inhale the fragrance of fellowship and love, every understanding heart would apprehend the meaning of true liberty, and discover the secret of undisturbed peace and absolute composure. Were the earth to attain this station and be illumined with its light it could then be truly said of it: ‘Thou ‎shall shalt‎ see it in no hollows or rising hills.’”

Love and unity are the “alpha and the omega” of Bahá’í teachings. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá teaches us that “...love is the secret of God’s holy Dispensation. ...” He explains that the Divine Plan itself is conditioned on love and unity among the friends. And He promises that when love and unity are revealed in our hearts, “the world of nature will be transformed, the darkness of the contingent being will vanish, and heavenly illumination will be obtained. Then the whole world will become the Paradise of Abhá, every one of the believers of God will become a blessed tree, producing wonderful fruits.”

And so dear friends, we must become warriors engaged in a battle for love. Each day we must immerse ourselves in the Holy Writings and prayers for the sake of the love of God, with hearts full of humble gratitude to Him for Bahá’u’lláh, His Life and Message. We must struggle daily to overcome every temptation to conflict, justified or not, with stronger feelings of love for one another. We must engage in active and prayerful campaigns of loving encouragement and support of our institutions and the difficult work they carry on. Love must be the essential motivation for sharing Bahá’u’lláh’s Message with every soul. Love must be the rallying point for supplying the Funds with capital so that the Faith can spread universal love and turn it into human happiness and progress. If we turn our hearts to this task, we shall not fail.

National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States March 1995 [Page 2]

TEACHING

Enclosed with this special issue of The American Bahá’í, whose focus is on teaching and the Funds, is a bonus—a catalog of selected teaching materials produced by the Bahá’í Distribution Service in collaboration with the National Teaching Committee.

The titles in the catalog were specially chosen to make it easier for individuals and local Assemblies to provide themselves with basic materials for campaigns of teaching and consolidation.

As you will see, the items range from general introductions on the Faith to works about specific issues of interest to seekers, and include print, audio-visual and other media. Some prices have been reduced to allow for more widespread distribution to seekers and contacts.

The catalog, of course, is only a sampling of the non-authoritative texts of the Faith; the Sacred Texts should be used whenever possible for teaching and deepening.

Nevertheless, the catalog of materials enclosed herein will be a valuable asset to everyone involved in reaching others with the Message of Bahá’u’lláh.

A complete listing of titles is available from the Bahá’í Distribution Service. Phone 800-999-9019; fax 615-843-0836; e-mail Internet:

Teaching: The food of the spirit

“Teaching is the food of the spirit; it brings life to unawakened souls and raises the new heaven and the new earth; it uplifts the banner of a unified world; it ensures the victory of the Covenant and brings those who give their lives to it the supernal happiness of attainment of the good pleasure of their Lord.” — The Universal House of Justice, Ridván 1988

In this most wondrous Faith, nothing is more basic and fundamental to the life of a Bahá’í than teaching the Cause of God. Discussions and plans regarding teaching usually involve the mechanics of teaching, such as the number of teaching events, the number of personal firesides, the number of contacts, or even personal goals to teach a certain number of people in a fixed period of time.

Although these aspects of the teaching work are absolutely essential, the friends of God should be ever mindful of the spiritual nature of the teaching process and bounties and blessings that encompass those who fulfill this divine mandate.

In its Ridván 1988 message the Universal House of Justice wrote the following: “Teaching is the food of the spirit; it brings life to unawakened souls and raises the new heaven and the new earth; it uplifts the banner of a unified world; it ensures the victory of the Covenant and brings those who give their lives to it the supernal happiness of attainment of the good pleasure of their Lord.”

In our devotion and service to the teaching work, we perhaps do not often think of teaching as spiritual food. Spiritual food is that which sustains us spiritually, such as daily prayer, fasting, giving to the Fund, and reading the Word of God. Teaching the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh assures us of spiritual growth and the confirmations of the Holy Spirit.

A letter written on behalf of the Guardian dated February 2, 1956, stated, “If one seeks the confirmations of the Holy Spirit, they can find it in rich abundance in the Teaching Field.” The power and influence of the Holy Spirit are extremely abundant, pervasive and essential to the process of guiding souls to God’s Holy Faith.

The spiritual nature of teaching

Teaching the Cause of God is truly a mystical experience involving the power and influence of the Holy Spirit, as well as assistance from the Unseen World. Bahá’u’lláh has written in His Most Holy Book, “Verily, We behold you from Our realm of glory, and shall aid whosoever will arise for the triumph of Our Cause with the hosts of the Concourse on high and a company of Our favoured angels.”

And again He confirms, “By the righteousness of God! Whoso openeth his lips in this Day and maketh mention of the name of his Lord, the hosts of Divine inspiration shall descend upon him from the heaven of My name, the all-Knowing, the All-Wise. On him shall also descend the Concourse on high, each bearing aloft a chalice of pure light. Thus hath it been foreordained in the realm of God’s Revelation, by the behest of Him Who is the All-Glorious, the Most Power-ful.”

The beloved Guardian, Shoghi Effendi, re-affirmed the promise made by Bahá’u’lláh to those who valiantly labor in the service of His Cause: “The Lord of Hosts, the King of Kings, has pledged to support every crusader battling for His Cause. Invisible battalions are mustered, rank upon rank, ready to pour forth reinforcements from on High.”

Thus when the Faith is taught with love, sincerity and detachment there is a commingling of this contingent world with the world of the spirit, and the teacher receives an infusion of strength, confidence and inspiration.

The beloved Master wrote, “Verily, I say unto thee, every soul which ariseth today to guide others to the path of safety and infuse in them the Spirit of Life, the Holy Spirit will inspire that soul with evidences, proofs and facts and the lights will shine upon it from the Kingdom of God.”

As we more fully understand our true role in the teaching process, we are able to overcome feelings of inadequacy or frustration as teachers, for we begin to realize that we are merely instruments or channels through which God accomplishes His purpose, and we are never alone.

The beloved Guardian, in setting forth the requirements for success in the teaching field, wrote the following: “What is needed to achieve success in the teaching field is a complete dedication on the part of the individual, consecration to the glorious task of spreading the Faith, and the living of the Bahá’í life, because that creates the magnet for the Holy Spirit, and it is the Holy Spirit which quickens the new soul. Thus the individual should be as a reed, through which the Holy Spirit may flow, to give new life to the seeking soul.”

We give the Message, and explain the Teachings, but it is the Holy Spirit that quickens and confirms.

Spiritual condition of the teacher

There are a host of spiritual qualities that any teacher of the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh must possess and exhibit while engaged in the process of teaching. Teaching the Faith is not merely a cold and lifeless explanation or discussion of the facts and principles associated with the Faith. It may be viewed as a spiritual conference with those souls who are seeking after truth.

One of the first conditions which the Master says is essential for the teacher is the love of God. He wrote, “With hearts overflowing with the love of God, with tongues commemorating the mention of God, with eyes turned to the Kingdom of God, they must deliver the Glad Tidings of the manifestation of the Lord of Hosts to all the people.”

The Master again affirms some of those qualities which are essential for those who would teach the Cause:

“The aim is this: The intention of the teacher must be pure, his heart independent, his spirit attracted, his thought at peace, his resolution firm, his magnanimity exalted and in the love of God a shining torch. Should he become as such, his sanctified breath will even affect the rock; otherwise there will be no result whatsoever.”

Minister delivers ‘fireside’ on Faith

On January 29, the Rev. Lionel Miles of the Church of the Beatitudes in Phoenix, Arizona, presented two sermons on the Faith, described by a Bahá’í who attended one of them as “the best Bahá’í fireside I’ve ever heard.”

Before speaking, the Rev. Miles visited the Bahá’í Center in Phoenix to gather resource materials, explaining that he was preparing a sermon on the Faith for that Sunday.

Nearly 100 people were at the morning service, the Bahá’í visitor reported, adding, “I was getting chills up and down my body as he told the people about Bahá’u’lláh, His life and Mission and imprisonment, the Báb and His life and martyrdom, the principles of the Faith, and [saying] that if Christians had been living their faith the way they should, they would be ready for this new world religion.”

It is also necessary for the teacher to show forth some enthusiasm and conviction about what he wishes to say.

The beloved Master writes, “The teacher, when teaching, must be himself fully enkindled, so that his utterance, like unto a flame of fire, may exert influence and consume the veil of self and passion.”

At the same time, the Master says, “He must also be utterly humble and lowly so that others may be edified, and be totally self-effaced and evanescent so that he may teach with the melody of the Concourse on high—otherwise his teaching will have no effect.”

See FOOD page 5 [Page 3]

TOTAL ENROLLMENTS

January: 124 Year to date: 1602

THE FUND

(As of December 31, 1994)

National Bahá’í Fund YTD Goal: $9,666,667 YTD Actual: $6,659,694

International Bahá’í Fund YTD Actual: $333,386

Arc Projects Fund YTD Actual: $3,657,953

Continental Bahá’í Fund YTD Actual: $144,631

Other Earmarked: $268,374

Subtotal/Int'l Funds YTD Goal: $7,000,000 YTD Actual: $4,404,344

Total/All Funds YTD Goal: $16,666,667 YTD Actual: $11,064,038

National Bahá’í Fund 1993-94: $6,656,828 1994-95: $6,659,694

International Bahá’í Fund 1993-94: $558,192 1994-95: $333,386

Arc Projects Fund 1993-94: $1,796,460 1994-95: $3,657,953

Continental Bahá’í Fund 1993-94: $206,221 1994-95: $144,631

Other Earmarked 1993-94: $404,695 1994-95: $268,374

Subtotal/Int'l Funds 1994-95: $4,404,344

Total/All Funds 1993-94: $9,622,396 1994-95: $11,064,038

National Bahá’í Fund Where we are: $6,659,694 Where we need to be: $9,666,667

All International Funds Where we are: $4,404,344 Where we need to be: $7,000,000

Arc Projects Fund Where we are: $3,657,953 Where we were last year: $1,796,460

International Bahá’í Fund Where we are: $333,386 Where we were last year: $558,192

Continental Bahá’í Fund Where we are: $144,631 Where we were last year: $206,221

The act of giving

It's about more than paying bills

We come into this world from nothingness and with nothing, as an evidence of God's love for His Creation. Bahá’u’lláh uses these wonderful words to describe how this happened:

"Veiled in My immemorial being and in the ancient eternity of My essence, I knew My love for thee; therefore I created thee, have engraved on thee Mine image and revealed to thee My beauty." (Bahá’u’lláh, Arabic Hidden Words, p. 3)

"Out of the wastes of nothingness, with the clay of My command I made thee to appear, and have ordained for thy training every atom in existence and the essence of all created things....Out of My loving-kindness, 'neath the shade of My mercy I nurtured thee, and guarded thee by the essence of My grace and favor. And My purpose in all this was that thou mightest attain My everlasting dominion and become worthy of My invisible bestowals." (Bahá’u’lláh, Persian Hidden Words, p. 29)

So, love is the force behind everything that is in the world. The act of giving is also based on love, and so is the money we use to express that love.

"When the love of God is established, everything else will be realized." (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, The Promulgation of Universal Peace)

"The real secret of universal participation lies in the Master's oft-expressed wish that the friends should love each other." (The Universal House of Justice, Wellspring of Guidance, p. 39)

A spirit of generosity is central to accomplishing the mission of the Cause, which is the revolutionary transformation of world society. One evidence of such a spirit is the giving of money.

"The progress and promotion of the Cause of God depend on material means." (Bahá’u’lláh, quoted in the Compilation on Huqúqu’lláh)

"...our contributions to the Faith are the surest way of lifting once and for all time the burden of hunger and misery from mankind, for it is only through the System of Bahá’u’lláh—Divine in origin—that the world can be gotten on its feet and want, fear, hunger, war, etc. be eliminated. Non-Bahá’ís cannot contribute to our work or do it for us; so really our first obligation is to support our own teaching work, as this will lead to the healing of the nations." (From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, December 8, 1947)

"...neither the economic nor other pressing problems confronting humanity will ultimately be resolved unless the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh is given due regard by nations and peoples and unless it receives the adequate material support of its avowed adherents." (The Universal House of Justice, Ridván 150)

The act of giving is itself central to our individual, personal spiritual development. We don't just give to keep Assemblies in business; we give because it is good for us spiritually, and it is good for the troubled society in which we live.

"Every Bahá’í, no matter how poor, must realize what a grave responsibility he has to shoulder in this connection, and should have confidence that his spiritual progress as a believer in the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh will largely depend upon the measure in which he proves, in deeds, his readiness to support materially the divine institutions of His Faith." (On behalf of the Guardian quoted in Dawn of a New Day, p. 67)

"...Contributions to this fund constitute, in addition, a practical and effective way whereby every believer can test the measure and character of his faith, and to prove in deeds the intensity of his devotion and attachment to the Cause...." (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, quoted in Bahá’í Funds, p. 11)

"Contributing to the Bahá’í Fund constitutes an act of spiritual discipline which is an intrinsic element of the devotional life of the individual. No believer should be unaware of the privilege of contributing to the advancement of the Cause of God, irrespective of his material circumstances. The practice of giving to the Fund strengthens the connection between the believer and the Cause and enhances his sense of identification with it.

"Divine confirmations redound upon those who offer a portion of their material resources in a spirit of sacrifice, motivated by love for the Author of their Faith and for His Cause."

VISION ACTION TRANSFORMATION AND GROWTH 3 YEAR PLAN 1993-1996

Some common misconceptions

"Some of us are so poor we can't give to the Fund."

The Guardian's secretary wrote on his behalf, "Every Bahá’í, no matter how poor, must realize what a grave responsibility he has to shoulder in this connection...." The House of Justice said, "Every Bahá’í can give."

"It doesn't matter what we give."

The amount given reflects the level of sacrifice we are willing to make to advance His Cause. The House of Justice wrote: "It is inevitable that in a project of such size [the Arc Project], a large portion of the money will have to come from those Bahá’ís who are endowed with wealth, whether this be to a moderate degree or of a considerable magnitude."

"If we all gave just a little bit, we could meet all our goals."

Universal participation gives evidence of unity within the community. As the previous quote from the House of Justice reflects, the level of sacrifice is determined by the individual, and individual circumstances differ. The key question is really "How close do I feel to Bahá’u’lláh, and what does my heart desire to do for Him?"

"Non-Bahá’ís cannot contribute to our work or do it for us; so really our first obligation is to support our own teaching work, as this will lead to the healing of the nations." — From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, December 8, 1947 [Page 4]

Friends rally to the Funds; pace critical

Even a quick look at the numbers shows we are making progress. But is it enough? Is it our best?

By the end of December, contributions arriving at the Bahá’í National Center totaled $11.1 million, some 15 percent higher than last year at the same time. This comes at a time when contributions for philanthropy in the US generally are declining—quite an accomplishment by any measure!

As a community, we are also trying to be obedient. The Universal House of Justice has advised us that the Arc Projects are the first priority; what have we done about that?

As the nearby pie-charts show, in May of ’92, about 13 percent of contributions were directed to the Arc, and offerings for the National Bahá’í Fund accounted for 78 cents of every dollar received in Wilmette.

By December of this year, these proportions had changed significantly:

More than one-third of all contributions received are dedicated to the Arc. Proportions for every other Fund share have changed, at the same time that the overall amounts have increased. The pie is cut differently, and it is bigger!

Can we do more?

Let’s look at what has happened in giving during the last six months.

The chart nearby shows that giving to all the Funds rose steeply during November and December. In fact, the friends made an exceptional effort in December, boosting revenue for the Arc by nearly $1 million in a single month!

Higher contributions for the National Fund, however, just compensated for earlier sluggishness, bringing the National Fund total to the same level as December 1993.

Might this accelerated pace indicate that we can do still more? In 1992, the community’s contributions and expenses for the Faith totaled an estimated $45 million; the next year that total dropped to about $20 million. What do these numbers say about our ability, under exceptional circumstances—1992 was a Holy Year—to pour forth material means for the Cause?

Throughout the South, the last two months have seen a series of events for the Arc Projects where, for the first time, friends are thinking in terms not of tens of thousands of dollars, but of HUNDREDS of thousands. Goals set for these events are routinely exceeded, sometimes by as much as 100 percent.

The number of active, contributing believers at every level is less than half of the membership. What would happen if these friends became involved? “...who could claim,” the House of Justice asks, “that every single believer has succeeded in finding his or her fullest satisfaction in the life of the Cause?”

Six-Month Giving Review

	Oct-93	Nov-93	Dec-93	% Tot
National	$703,212	$1,003,790	$1,369,152	76%
All International	$230,503	$275,780	$438,264	24%
Total			$1,807,416	100%

	Oct-94	Nov-94	Dec-94	% Tot
National	$722,871	$858,807	$1,215,638	55%
All International	$267,648	$497,633	$1,005,914	45%
Total			$2,221,552	100%

National Fund	Oct	Nov	Dec
1993	$703,212	$1,003,790	$1,369,152
1994	$722,871	$858,807	$1,215,638
All International	Oct	Nov	Dec
1993	$230,503	$275,780	$438,264
1994	$267,648	$497,633	$1,005,914

	May-92		Dec-94
NBF	$1,152,967	78%	$1,215,638	55%
Arc	$198,199	13%	$874,165	39%
Other Int’l	$136,302	9%	$131,749	6%
Total	$1,487,468	100%	$2,221,552	100%
International Bahá’í Fund	44579		51592
Continental Fund	17183		23144
Other Earmarked	74540		57013

“That God-born Force ... Is, under our very eyes, sundering, on the one hand, the age-old ties which for centuries have held together the fabric of civilized society, and is unloosing, on the other, the bonds that still fetter the infant and as yet unemancipated Faith of Bahá’u’lláh.”

— Shoghi Effendi (The Advent of Divine Justice, p. 39)

VISION IN ACTION MARCH TO VICTORY 3 YEAR PLAN 1993 - 1996 (TRANSFORMATION AND GROWTH)

Are we spending enough on teaching?

Yes and no.

Yes, because everything the National Spiritual Assembly does relates to some aspect of the teaching process.

No, because if more money were available, the National Assembly could do much more than it can today:

• video tapes on major networks;
• a vastly expanded external affairs agenda;
• a community development agenda that would transform the face of the community.

The list is almost endless!

The primary responsibility for teaching, however, rests on the individual and on local communities.

The role of the Bahá’í National Fund in supporting teaching is to complement local efforts, where the vast amount of money is spent on activities and programs.

It has been our experience that successful teaching is premised on Bahá’ís befriending individuals and sharing with them the Message of Bahá’u’lláh.

This action, in and of itself, is not measurable solely in financial terms.

Community-building flows from the cultivation of affection and respect among seekers and the community of Bahá’í. [Page 5]

Bahá’í youth are mobilized in Army of Light campaign

Members of the Atlanta Bahá’í Youth Workshop have traveled near and far to teach the Faith through performances and firesides.

“The future of the Faith rests on the shoulders of youth,” the National Spiritual Assembly wrote in its most recent Feast letter. “They must become the strongholds of the word of God, the signs of His nobility and perfection, and the reflections of His love. ...Youth inspired by these virtues will become spiritual warriors in the Heavenly Army of the Lord of Hosts.”

One of the highlights of teaching in the first year of the Three Year Plan was the Fruit of the Holy Year campaign that involved about 350 young people, largely Youth Workshop participants, in traveling teaching trips that converged on Atlanta. The campaign resulted in a greater commitment to the Cause for all participants, about 65 declarations, and a broader vision of the possibilities for youth in teaching in this country.

To support this promising trend while responding to a number of letters from young Bahá’ís in various parts of the country, the National Teaching Committee, at the direction of the National Spiritual Assembly, appointed a task force that developed a proposal for a youth teaching campaign.

In the summer of 1994 the “Army of Light” teaching campaign was begun to mobilize large numbers of new believers. Bahá’í Youth workshops and youth teaching teams were the nucleus of the campaign. Young people traveled to teaching projects around the country and planned activities in their own areas under the auspices of local communities. From a handful of projects prior to the campaign, more than 1,000 young people in the Army of Light took part in more than 100 projects last summer.

To recognize this exciting and rapidly growing force in the teaching arena and to encourage yet higher levels of commitment and activity, the National Spiritual Assembly invited the youth to the Army of Light National Youth Conference, held December 23-26 in Phoenix, Arizona.

“May this conference generate a further mobilization of your energies,” the Universal House of Justice stated in a message to the Youth Conference, “such as to break the past records of your individual and collective endeavors to spread the Teachings of Bahá’u’lláh and to conform your lives to His divine purpose.”

The House of Justice continued by stressing that “So desired an outcome is necessary if the youth are to contribute decisively to the victory of the Three Year Plan not only in your country but throughout the world in the precious, short time remaining to it.”

In their response to the message from the House of Justice, the youth who were gathered at the Conference pledged to dedicate themselves to “act upon the principles which direct our inner development and private character, and which guide our active life of teaching and service,” and each one signed an Army of Light scroll that was forwarded to the Bahá’í World Center.

The Conference was a call to action to the Bahá’í youth of this country...and it is evident that they heard the call. Their response has been immediate, enthusiastic and action-oriented. News of teaching projects, regional youth conferences, and commitments to travel teaching and pioneering arrive at the National Center daily.

To support and build upon the activities initiated by youth, local Spiritual Assemblies and state Teaching Committees have been asked to give attention to organizing and mobilizing youth as teachers. Training packets have been developed for use in orienting and inspiring youth teaching teams, and Bahá’í Youth workshops are making teaching plans to work in conjunction with Army of Light projects.

To help youth and local communities work together, regional coordinators have been appointed to register and train individuals and to match local needs with available resources. Coordinators also offer training to help communities and teachers make plans that will maximize the effectiveness of their projects.

In a letter to all National Spiritual Assemblies, the Universal House of Justice has characterized Bahá’í youth as “potent instruments” for the execution of teaching campaigns, adding that through their distinctive qualities, “they can become the spearhead of any enterprise, and the driving force of any undertaking, whether local or national.”

The activities and achievements of youth in the Army of Light are another step in the process of learning how to better engage the capacities of youth for initiating and sustaining entry by troops. Perseverance in action is the key to making the Army of Light not simply another teaching campaign, but an important step in an ever-evolving, ever more effective pattern of large-scale expansion and consolidation.

Food

Continued from page 2

The beloved Guardian also wrote, “One can hardly imagine what a great influence genuine love, truthfulness and purity of motives exert on the souls of men. But these traits cannot be acquired unless every believer makes a daily effort to gain them. ...”

Seek guidance through prayer

There is no greater preparation for teaching than prayer. Through prayer and faith in the promises of Bahá’u’lláh comes the confidence we need to become effective teachers of the Cause.

The beloved Guardian has spoken of the vital necessity of prayer and meditation as a means of achieving success in any Bahá’í enterprise:

“Moreover the friends must observe the specific times for the remembrance of God, meditation, devotion and prayer, as it is highly unlikely, nay, rather impossible, that any enterprise should prosper and develop short of divine bestowals and confirmation.”

The Master also affirmed this fundamental principle when He wrote, “Speak, therefore; speak out with great courage at every meeting.

“When you are about to begin your address, turn first to Bahá’u’lláh, and ask for the confirmations of the Holy Spirit, then open your lips and say whatever is suggested to your heart; this, however, with the utmost courage, dignity and conviction.”

Teaching: a supreme bounty

“It is better to guide one soul than to possess all that is on earth, for as long as that guided soul is under the shadow of the Tree of Divine Unity, he and the one who hath guided him will both be recipients of God’s tender mercy, whereas possession of earthly things will cease at the time of death.

“The path to guidance is one of love and compassion, not of force and coercion. This hath been God’s method in the past, and shall continue to be in the future! He causeth him whom He pleaseth to enter the shadow of His Mercy. Verily, He is the Supreme Protector, the All-Generous.” (Selections from the Writings of the Báb, p. 77)

The bounties conferred upon those who teach the Cause of their Lord are inestimable. The teacher perhaps receives greater benefit from teaching the Faith than the one whom he teaches.

The process and the act of teaching contribute to the growth and spiritual development of the teacher.

Teaching allows the individual to become the channel through which the Holy Spirit quickens new souls to unreserved acceptance of the Faith; it provides a workshop through which the qualities of the soul are cultivated; knowledge, wisdom and spiritual perception are increased; and through obedience to the Divine Command it allows both the teacher and the seeker to be confirmed in the Covenant.

It is better to guide one soul than to possess all that is on earth, for as long as that guided soul is under the shadow of the Tree of Divine Unity, he and the one who hath guided him will both be recipients of God’s tender mercy, whereas possession of earthly things will cease at the time of death.

The Báb (Selections from the Writings of the Báb, p. 77) [Page 6]

Be a part of the Army of Light

Help the National Teaching Committee fill this map with Army of Light teaching projects! (See article below for details)

VISION IN ACTION MARCH TO VICTORY 3 YEAR PLAN 1993 - 1996 TRANSFORMATION AND GROWTH

“So you see your sense of inadequacy, your realization of your own unworthiness is not unique at all. ... Now the ‎widsom wisdom‎ of it is this: it is such seemingly weak instruments that demonstrate that God is the Power achieving the victories and not men.”

From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, January 11, 1951, and quoted in Unfolding Destiny, p. 459

Today, the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh faces another critical time in its development—a climax of human history brought about by the twin processes of integration and disintegration that are changing our lives and transforming our planet. At this time youth can play a vital role in the Faith that will result in moving the world.

You can make a difference by taking part in the Army of Light. If you are a youth, set aside time to be a teacher at a project or in your own community. If you are an adult, see what you can do to help place youth in the forefront of teaching.

You can start today by calling your regional Army of Light coordinator. Or you can choose a project from the ones listed here and make contact with the appropriate representative. You might want to start a project in your area; ask your Assembly. Your Auxiliary Board member may be able to help you decide what you can do and where you can go.

Just do it. We’re waiting to hear about your victories!

ARMY OF LIGHT COORDINATORS

National Coordinator: Dorita Krapf, c/o Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. Phone or fax 815-478-5560.

Regional Coordinators

ME, NH, VT, RI, CT, MA: Carl Pabst, 207-773-3170; Noreen Robinson, (203) 747-2918

MD, VA, WV, DC: Navid Haghighi, 703-406-2151; Laura Cessna-Elliott, 703-660-1629

NC: North Carolina State Teaching Committee—Bob Tansik, 919-544-3895; Vance Remick, 919-968-0900

SC: South Carolina State Teaching Committee—Debbie Jackson, 803-558-9289; Vance Remick, 919-968-0900

GA: Georgia State Teaching Committee—Jacqueline Konan, 706-568-0108

FL: Florida State Teaching Committee—Harriet Stafford, 904-377-6428

AL, MS: Lisa McDowell-Puzon, 205-426-5358

TN, KY: Andrea Seals, 615-822-3390; Allison McGee, 615-395-7452; Mahyar Mofidi, 502-245-9192

IN, OH, MI (LP): Lalita Amos 317-297-4368; Shelly Rastall, 616-394-5189

LA, AR: Vafa Ferdowsian, 501-336-5260

IL, WI, MI (UP): Sandra Fair, 414-871-9919; Trevor Williams, 217-367-4833

KS, NE, MO: Marcelle LaVine, 913-831-3239

IA, MN: Mary McDowell, 319-556-1982

ND, SD: Shiva Ziai, 605-945-2625

TX: Texas State Teaching Committee—Jeanette Hedayati, 817-549-6769

OK: Andrenae King, 409-886-4853; Victor Wong, 405-946-2289

NV, NM, AZ: May Movafagh, 602-963-4798

WY, CO: Margaret Riebau, 303-484-0446

UT, ID: Marva Davis, 801-967-6680

CA Northern: State Teaching Committee—Shastri Purushotma, 408-252-2333

CA Southern: State Teaching Committee—Kathy Peterson, 909-792-3982; Jennifer North-Morris, 619-449-1790; Diedre Merrill, 619-748-2788

OR: Oregon State Teaching Committee—Rachael Greco, 503-623-8035

WA: Washington State Teaching Committee—Celia Johnson, 206-377-1977

Established projects for 1995

Woodburn, OR: ESL classes, food services, deepenings, other. Spanish proficiency valued. Volunteers may apply directly to this site. Contact: Oregon State Teaching Committee, c/o Rachael Greco.

Atlanta, GA: “Army of Light—Operation 95,” June 20-25. Intensive study and teaching. Large-scale initiative to use 500 volunteers teaching whole metro area. Contact: Natasha Naderi, 116 Tuxworth Circle, Decatur, GA (404-320-3004).

Temerity Woods, Phelps Co., MO: Social and economic development project, June 27-July 11. Need a maximum of 16 volunteers (including two adult). Contact: Temerity Woods Development Corp, P. O. Box 129, Lake Spring, MO 65532 or phone 314-364-0491. In Missouri, phone 1-800-987-4207.

Torrington, CT: “The Horace Holley Teaching Project.” Firesides, direct teaching, and other services based in local storefront, July 15-Sept 15. For information, phone 703-496-1894.

Salt Lake City, UT: “Color Me Human Conference,” July/August, for participation by adults, children and youth, both Bahá’í and others. Volunteers are needed during the conference and for teaching programs in week following. Contact: Jan Saeed, 801-582-3135.

Kansas City, MO: Social and economic development project. Target population yet unnamed. Need 2-3 older youth, seasoned in service and teaching, capable of independent living. Own transportation a plus. Auto expenses reimbursed. Housing provided during 3-12 month assignment. Contact: Auxiliary Board member Bill Wieties, 314-341-9955, or Army of Light coordinator M. LaVine.

St. Paul, MN: Similar specifics to those for Kansas City. Target population: Hmong. Contact: Auxiliary Board Member Bill Wieties, 314-341-9955, or Army of Light coordinator M. McDowell.

Teresita Project, Mesa, AZ: Spanish-speaking believers greatly needed for extended service in Hispanic community teaching children’s classes, adult deepenings, consolidation efforts. Volunteers must love people, own transportation desirable. Contact: Carolyn Wong, 602-890-2233.

Louis Gregory Institute and surrounding area: As many youth as possible, ages 15 and older (mature) for teaching door to door, children’s classes, deepening children, service projects, Bahá’í Youth Workshop performance. Plan to spend a week during your spring break and then return for a summer of service. Must be willing to do any task assigned at institute with joy and enthusiasm. May work in education center, maintenance, WLGI, food services, housekeeping. Contact: Sophia Borhani, 803-558-5093.

Native American Bahá’í Institute: Many volunteers of diverse backgrounds, deepened in the sacred texts and self-sufficient, are needed to teach children’s and youth classes. Dates vary with activity. July 31-August 4, youth training for teaching at NABI. Contact: Lorraine Kahn, 802-521-1064.

Eastern Tennessee: Mobile teaching program visiting counties in Eastern Tennessee. Please call for details. Contact: Lois Osborne, 615-476-6248.

New projects are emerging continually. Contact your Regional Coordinator for current news as it develops.

The Bahá’í registration card for ages 0-14 years is to be used to register all children, whether or not their parents are Bahá’ís. Likewise, the Bahá’í declaration card is to be used for all those 15 years of age or older (if not already registered as a child), regardless of family circumstances.

[Page 7]

Where does the money go, anyway?

“Good grief!” she exclaimed. “Ten million dollars is all the money in the world! How can you say it’s not enough?” It was an interesting beginning to the meeting.

Sometimes it seems that the National Spiritual Assembly should be able to “get by” with the contributions it receives, and yet in one way or another, most of the messages that mention the Funds indicate that we still have a ways to go.

“More yet to be done” is a recurring phrase, to which the friends sometimes reply, “Why? We’re already giving as much as we can.” That seemed, at least, to be the sense of the questioner.

So how does the money get spent?

The National Assembly employs, on average, about 200 people, spread among more than a dozen properties and offices nationwide. The number varies with the season: more during construction season, less in the winter.

Only about 60 of these people work in the national administrative offices. The majority of these friends are employed in caring for the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár, running the schools, and managing the Assembly’s outlying offices. They represent all ages and ethnic groups, men and women, and they are Bahá’ís and friends of the Faith. As the Faith’s needs have become more complex, many more of them come to serve with degrees and records of professional accomplishment.

What do they do? Here are some statistics relating only to the administrative side of the enterprise:

• Just one section of the Secretariat answers more than 500 letters each month—6,000 letters per year. That is up from about 300 letters monthly last year. These are questions and requests for help from individuals, groups and Assemblies.

• The “office” staff at the Bahá’í National Center each answer between 10 and 20 phone calls every day, at a conservative estimate. That makes a total of more than 225,000 calls each year from people who want or need answers yesterday!

• Two members of the Treasurer’s Office staff process roughly 150,000 contributions yearly.

• Close to a half-million pieces of mail go out each year, at a cost of about $400,000. These include Feast letters, general correspondence, contribution receipts, video tapes and books.

• Travel and Materials: conferences, proclamation appearances, bringing expert Bahá’ís to the National Center, testimony before governmental authorities, meetings on behalf of refugees, deepenings and training sessions of all kinds, problem-solving and consultations—all these require travel.

• Financial aid to pioneers will total some $100,000 this year—helping friends fulfill critical goals and assisting them to remain at their posts.

The list goes on, and we haven’t even touched on the External Affairs work or the needs of the many properties held in trust for future generations: all intricate, all necessary, and all increasingly costly!

Giving

Continued from page 3

...tivated by their love of the Faith and their desire to assist in its progress.” (The Universal House of Justice, September 17, 1992)

We are often, however, heedless of these realities, as Bahá’u’lláh Himself attests:

“And yet heedless thou didst remain, and when fully grown, thou didst neglect all My bounties and occupied thyself with thine idle imaginings, in such wise that thou didst become wholly forgetful, and, turning away from the portals of the Friend didst abide within the courts of My enemy.” (Persian Hidden Words, p. 29)

Hence we run great risks, both spiritual AND material.

“It is therefore imperative for the individual American believer, and particularly for the affluent, the independent, the comfort-loving and those obsessed by material pursuits, to step forward and dedicate their resources, their time, their very lives to a Cause of such transcendence that no human eye can even dimly perceive its glory. Let them resolve, instantly and unhesitatingly, to place, each according to his circumstances, his share on the altar of Bahá’í sacrifice, lest, on a sudden, unforeseen calamities rob them of a considerable portion of the earthly things they have amassed.” (Shoghi Effendi, Citadel of Faith, p. 131)

In light of this guidance, we can see that our response is vitally important, both for ourselves and for the well-being of everyone we love. In fact, we are urged to be persistent, fearless and faithful. We are called to be heroes:

“He hopes that the friends will display a certain amount of faith and courage and not fear present economic conditions. We should not let financial considerations hamper our work and discourage us in rendering our services.

“Giving lavishly during days of plenty cannot be termed sacrifice. It applies only to our activities when depression and economic difficulties seem to block the way. ...Whatever we sacrifice at present is to assure the welfare of humanity and ourselves as members of it in the future.” (From a message written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, published in Bahá’í News No. 59, February 1932, p. 7)

“Each and every believer, undaunted by the uncertainties, the perils and the financial stringency afflicting the nation, must arise and ensure, to the full measure of his or her capacity, that continuous and abundant flow of funds into the national Treasury, on which the successful prosecution of the Plan must chiefly depend. ...” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, quoted in Bahá’í Funds, p. 11)

“Real growth of your material resources will come about through two primary means: increase in the number of believers, and increase in the effectiveness of the education of the believers concerning their spiritual obligations, among which is financial support of Bahá’í institutions.” (The Universal House of Justice, April 26, 1993)

Most important (and reassuring) is the divine promise that we will be confirmed and supported in all that we do.

“For as extensive and deep as has been the sharing of the glorious work of the Cause, who could claim that every single believer has succeeded in finding his or her fullest satisfaction in the life of the Cause?” (The Universal House of Justice, Wellspring of Guidance, p. 39)

“As always, the House of Justice is most grateful for the significant support of the American Bahá’í community to the International Funds and deeply appreciates your own relentless effort to find ways of increasing that support while at the same time attending to the enormous calls upon your National Fund for such major projects as the renovation of the House of Worship and the preservation of the buildings at the Green Acre School.

“Rest assured of its continued, ardent prayers at the Holy Threshold that the Blessed Beauty may increasingly reward your stewardship.” (On behalf of the Universal House of Justice, letter dated April 26, 1993, to the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States) [Page 8]

The challenge of the Divine Plan

Bahá’u’lláh has come to transform the world. Society is in desperate need of His healing Message, but we cannot impact society in the way we should until our membership is vastly increased and, as the House of Justice says, the Cause "receives the adequate...support of its avowed adherents."

‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Divine Plan is our Charter for the spiritual conquest of the planet—a conquest of love and hope. Our effort to fulfill the mandate of the Divine Plan requires firmness in the Covenant: love, fellowship and unity among the believers, and teaching.

The Three Year Plan, the current phase of the Divine Plan, calls for a "massive expansion" of the Cause to meet the needs of humanity. Our aim is to simultaneously guide individuals into the Faith and work with them to build strong communities.

“Each one of us, if we look into our failures, is sure to feel unworthy.... The thing for us to focus on is the glory of the Cause and the Power of Bahá’u’lláh which can make of a mere drop a surging sea!” — From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, October 13, 1947

Experience in the Bahá’í world has demonstrated that in areas where expansion accelerates, unless the new believers are empowered to assume responsibility for the work of the Cause, expansion eventually comes to a halt.

In the Three Year Plan, the Universal House of Justice has emphasized enhancing the vitality of the faith of individual believers and developing the human resources of the Cause as a means to strengthen and multiply the number of individuals who support expansion and consolidation.

Guiding individual souls

Teachers, Assemblies, local communities and teaching projects working for massive expansion engage in a number of steps that guide individuals along a path from learning about Bahá’u’lláh to arising independently to serve His Cause. A key element is teaching individuals about the Person and mission of Bahá’u’lláh.

A second element is inviting the seekers to become Bahá’ís so that they, as their hearts are transformed, can help transform the world. Yet another essential element is providing systematic deepening programs for adults, youth and children.

The path of individual transformation is the same for everyone. Bahá’ís and non-Bahá’ís, veteran and new believers, progress along this path at their own rate. Individual learning and transformation continues forever.

Guiding individual souls includes:

Finding and teaching receptive souls. Interact with and befriend non-Bahá’ís, telling them about Bahá’u’lláh. Proclamation is not a substitute for direct teaching.

Declaration and enrollment. Invite souls to embrace the Faith. Declaration is a milestone that takes place at any point. For some this occurs quickly; place no obstacles in the way of such souls.

Strengthening bonds of fellowship, love and unity. Strengthen bonds of fellowship between teachers and seekers. Strong bonds of friendship are key to enrollment. In areas of large-scale growth, bonds are established through regular, sustained follow-up visits.

Systematic deepening. Offer systematic deepening to strengthen the faith of all believers and guide them in principles such as prayer, teaching, and giving to the Fund. A core deepening program can also prepare them for specific services, such as serving on assemblies.

Continued learning. Study the Writings while striving to transform what is written into action.

Building a pattern of community life

Individual progress is complemented by a regular cycle of community life that confirms the individual's faith, provides fellowship and worship, guides individuals and families in the practice of Bahá’í life, and offers an opportunity for service to the Cause. Such sustained patterns of action strengthen individuals and communities at the same time.

Every community has different needs. Hence, the specific activities in each community will vary, and will be different at various stages of a community's development.

The following illustration gives an examples of activities that make up a pattern of community life; the categories are not exhaustive, nor will every community have activity in each of these areas.

The important thing is that activities be undertaken with love and unity and that they address the community's spiritual, social, expansion and consolidation needs. The activities should combine in an ever-evolving pattern that increases the community's membership, sustains individual spiritual development, and leads to the spiritual conquest of the entire town, city, or region.

Building a pattern of community life includes:

Spiritual meetings. Gather Bahá’ís and seekers regularly for music, fellowship, etc. to enable believers and seekers to feel and be uplifted by the spirit of the Faith.

Teaching activities. Hold firesides and activities using other teaching methods suited to the population. Teaching must include more than simply proclamation.

Feasts and Assembly meetings. Hold Feasts and Assembly meetings for Bahá’ís, recognizing that they may take time to develop in some places, but are crucial to the progress of the Cause.

Individual and family life. Help individuals and families obey the laws and develop the distinctive pattern and qualities of Bahá’í life, such as obligatory prayer, fasting, contributing to the Funds, observing Holy Days, etc.

Youth activities. Use youth to spearhead activities for expansion and consolidation.

Children's classes and activities. Guide children to be effective teachers and servants of the Cause. Children do not have to have Bahá’í parents to learn about the Faith.

Deepenings, schools and institutes. Offer sustained opportunities for interaction with the Word of God and for acquiring skills to better serve the Faith.

Social activities. Plan social events to provide an avenue for strengthening bonds of love, fellowship and unity.

Social and economic development. Apply Bahá’u’lláh's teachings to the problems of humanity through such activities as literacy classes and race unity efforts.

Putting it all together

The efforts to guide individuals and establish a pattern of community life complement one another and accelerate the movement of the population toward the new World Order.

Individuals, moving at their own pace, are systematically trained and included in the life of the community. Community activities confirm individuals and are multiplied and grow in complexity as more individuals arise to serve.

Large-scale expansion and consolidation requires:

Drawing spiritual power. The Faith is not about meetings—it is about channeling and directing the tremendous spiritual forces released by Bahá’u’lláh for the transformation of society. Individuals and communities are galvanized through divine power and love.

Embracing the entire population. If our activities involve only Bahá’ís, we cannot grow. Bahá’u’lláh's teachings are for everyone and are urgently needed by humanity at this time.

Learning through action and reflection. Every area already has some level of activity; these can evolve to include vital missing elements. Encourage initiative without worrying unduly about mistakes, which are a necessary part of a learning process. Evaluate action and revise it as needed to increase effectiveness.

Participation by everyone. The Faith grows through individual initiative, direction from assemblies, and leadership from the Auxiliary Board. While "each person cannot do everything and all persons cannot do the same thing," every believer and every community can find some part to play in the urgent work of achieving massive expansion.

Increasing human resources. Encourage new believers and seekers to take part in activities with the Bahá’ís, then arise to serve on their own. Systematic deepening on the Word of God is the key to spiritual transformation and preparation for greater service.

Questions and answers

What does "entry by troops" mean?

In His Writings, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá explained that there would be a time when people would enter the Cause of God "in troops." Shoghi Effendi expanded on this concept by conceiving entry-by-troops as the second in a series of stages leading ultimately to the conversion of the masses of humanity.

The Universal House of Justice has anticipated that "all national communities...will ultimately be involved" in this process of entry by troops. Countries that the House of Justice has acknowledged as having experienced entry by troops include India, Bolivia, and many others. It is the process by which the Faith grows from small numbers to a mass movement. [Page 9]

Model

Continued from page 8

perienced entry by troops witnessed a rapid and concentrated acceleration of people into the Cause.

For example, in 1971, the Universal House of Justice explained that the process of “entry by troops” was “rapidly accelerating” in the United States when we experienced the enrollment of 8,000 individuals in six weeks, with a total of about 23,000 that year.

How do we ensure an adequate spiritual foundation for our efforts?

Study and prayer will provide regular contact with the Source of spiritual strength. Consultation supports a learning process of action and reflection by resolving problems and finding creative answers to every question that might arise.

Systematic support for the various Funds of the Faith will provide not only the material means to sustain the effort, but will also attract blessings and cultivate qualities of the spirit that will enable the believers and their growing communities to attract waiting souls.

Are we being asked to stop the race unity work to achieve large-scale expansion and consolidation?

Definitely not. Our race unity work is not a separate task, but is intimately associated with the effort for expansion and consolidation in the United States. Indeed, it is an important aspect of the community’s social development; by manifesting our faith in action, we consolidate the community while reinforcing our expansion efforts.

For example, freedom from prejudice is a prerequisite for success in teaching. Bahá’u’lláh’s teachings on the oneness of humanity are a potent magnet for attracting hearts to embrace His Cause. Bahá’í communities are to be distinguished for their love and unity.

Finally, the Guardian envisioned that the believers would need to conduct an organized campaign to rid the American nation of the stain of racism; the ability to be successful in such an endeavor is a major reason that our community must have massive growth.

What is the purpose of the regular spiritual meeting?

Its purpose is to enable both Bahá’ís and non-Bahá’ís to gather and feel the spirit of the Faith. The meeting can be customized to local needs and conditions, including any combination of worship, music, deepening, talks, presentations by children, or social activities.

How can we start a large-scale expansion and consolidation effort in our area?

You probably already have some level of activity going. Build on your strengths to add additional components. Study the November 9, 1993, letter of the Universal House of Justice on entry by troops and the statement and compilation on “Promoting Entry by Troops.”

Compare your current activities to the elements of guiding individual souls and building a pattern of community life. Are there any vital elements missing? What can you do to add these key elements in a way that complements current activities?

Are you reaching out to the entire population? Feasts, Assembly meetings, and occasional special meetings are the only gatherings that cannot include non-Bahá’ís. What can you do to cultivate an audience for the Bahá’í message?

Look for ways to release individual initiative. The Auxiliary Board stands ready to advise and support any initiative. Local Assemblies can support individuals, implement a community strategy, or work with other communities. Youth can be the spearhead of any enterprise for large-scale growth.

Evaluating and revising community teaching plans

We long to see every local Spiritual Assembly either spontaneously adopt its own goals or warmly welcome those it has been or will be given by its National Spiritual Assembly, swell the number of adherents who compose its local community and, guided by the general policy outlined by its National Spiritual Assembly, proclaim the Faith more effectively, energetically pursue its extension teaching and consolidation goals, arrange observances of the Holy Days, regularly hold its Nineteen Day Feasts and its sessions for deepening, initiate and maintain community projects, and encourage the participation of every member of its community in giving to the Fund and undertaking teaching activities and administrative services, so as to make each locality a stronghold of the Faith and a torch-bearer of the Covenant. The Universal House of Justice, May 25, 1975

In the first 20 months of the Three Year Plan, more than 600 local Assemblies and Groups prepared plans for the growth and development of their communities. These communities submitted their plans to the National Teaching Committee.

Evaluation and planning is an important annual activity of the local Assembly and the local community. Communities that have not yet made a plan can do so. Those that have worked in the past year to implement their plans will wish to reflect on their efforts and consider their hopes for the coming year.

The previous year’s activities are reviewed to determine what works and what areas need improvement; the use of financial resources for the past year and the coming year are carefully considered and a budget developed; and the action objectives of the community are revised or expanded as needed to achieve the goals of the Three Year Plan.

At all steps of the planning, implementing, reviewing and revising process, the Auxiliary Board members and their assistants should play an important part in consulting with and supporting the local Spiritual Assemblies.

Those who have not yet created a local plan of action can refer to the booklet, “Vision in Action,” which was sent to each community last April. The publication includes a message from the Universal House of Justice and accompanying statement and compilation, “Promoting Entry By Troops,” written by the Research Department of the Bahá’í World Center; a message from the National Spiritual Assembly on “Fundamental Challenges Facing the American Bahá’í Community”; as well as a “Strategy for Large-Scale Expansion and Consolidation” by the National Teaching Committee. Additional copies may be obtained from the Bahá’í Distribution Service.

In the course of studying the Three Year Plan and preparing or revising local plans and goals, care must

See REVISING page 11

VISION IN ACTION TRANSFORMATION AND GROWTH 3 YEAR PLAN 1993 - 1996 MARCH TO VICTORY

“We long to see every local Spiritual Assembly either spontaneously adopt its own goals or warmly welcome those it has been or will be given by its National Spiritual Assembly ... so as to make each locality a stronghold of the Faith and a torch-bearer of the Covenant.” Universal House of Justice, May 25, 1975

Cities with populations of 50,000 or more and no local Spiritual Assembly

Alabama: Dothan Arkansas: Fort Smith, Pine Bluff California: Alhambra, Baldwin Park, Bellflower, Buena Park, Carson, Cerritos, Chino, Compton, El Monte, Fontana, Huntington Park, Lodi, Lynwood, Montebello, Monterey Park, Napa, National City, Pico Rivera, Rosemead, Salinas, South Gate, South San Francisco, West Covina, Westminster Colorado: Greeley, Thornton Connecticut: Bristol, Danbury, New Britain, Norwalk, Waterbury, West Haven Florida: Hialeah, Miami Beach, Pensacola, West Palm Beach Illinois: Cicero, Mt. Prospect, Oak Lawn, Schaumburg Indiana: Anderson, Evansville, Hammond, Terre Haute Iowa: Waterloo Kansas: Olathe Kentucky: Owensboro Louisiana: Bossier City, Kenner, Lafayette, Lake Charles Massachusetts: Brockton, Chicopee, Fall River, Haverhill, Lawrence, Lynn, New Bedford, Quincy Michigan: Battle Creek, Dearborn Heights, Livonia, Pontiac, Rochester Hills, Roseville, Royal Oak, Saginaw, St. Clair Shores, Sterling Heights, Taylor, Troy, Warren, Westland, Wyoming Minnesota: Brooklyn Park, Burnsville Missouri: Florissant, St. Charles, St. Joseph New Jersey: Bayonne, Camden, Clifton, East Orange, Elizabeth, Irvington, Newark, Paterson, Union City, Vineland New York: Binghamton, New Rochelle, Niagara Falls, Schenectady, Troy, Utica North Carolina: Fayetteville Ohio: Akron, Canton, Elyria, Hamilton, Lakewood, Lorain, Parma, Springfield, Warren, Youngstown Oklahoma: Broken Arrow, Lawton Pennsylvania: Altoona, Erie, Reading, Scranton Rhode Island: Cranston, East Providence, Pawtucket Tennessee: Clarksville, Jackson Texas: Abilene, Baytown, Killeen, Laredo, Longview, Mesquite, Odessa, Port Arthur Utah: Orem, Provo Virginia: Chesapeake, Danville, Suffolk Wisconsin: La Crosse, Racine, West Allis [Page 10]

LSAs respond to December 5 letter

On December 5, the National Spiritual Assembly addressed local Spiritual Assemblies about the dilemma it presently faces: “How do you advise the community of a potentially damaging situation on the national front without slowing the momentum that needs to be sustained, even increased, on the international front?”

The response of these local institutions was immediate, heartwarming, and insightful.

“We consulted on your letter...about the state of the National Fund,” writes one Southern Assembly, on January 10. “The Assembly decision was to increase our contribution by 25 percent through the fiscal year. ...We send our love to you all.”

Another Assembly, this time in the Northeast, wrote on January 9, “We are happy that we have always been able to not only meet but exceed our annual goal and we are now pleased to advise that, in response to your letter, we have sent a $1,000 contribution to the National Fund which is over and above our regular monthly contribution. ...We wish to take this opportunity to express our thanks and appreciation to you and your office for the wonderful job being done in the management of the Fund, and we pray that your bringing this dire situation to the attention of the friends will bear positive results.”

Questions and comments

Another Southern Assembly responded with a contribution, but they also had some welcome questions and comments that invite a bit of discussion.

“We...realize,” they write, “that by the grace of Bahá’u’lláh the elected representatives are accountable to the House of Justice and to Bahá’u’lláh and not to the body of believers. ...However, in practical and human terms, the believers must be able to understand and relate the revenues generated to the expenditures and commitments made.

“...As an example, a church with barely 50 members wanted to sell a capital budget which amounted to $150,000. ...They very openly presented the plan and need to their congregation and they periodically updated the numbers until two-thirds of the needed funds were raised and they felt safe enough to sign the contracts and let the construction begin. ...”

“If the community received periodic updates and detailed analysis of expenditures...we believe that the community would rise up to the challenge to meet the NSA’s financial needs. ...”

There are several important matters embedded in these lines. The comparison of the national Bahá’í community to a neighborhood church is not especially helpful, since our community is much more complex and diverse than any organization of that scale.

Of course, it is quite correct that Assemblies should take the believers into their confidence, sharing, as the Guardian wrote, “their plans, their hopes, and their cares.”

Here, too, is an issue of balance, because Assemblies are not accountable to the friends in the way that, for example, the U.S. government is accountable to the voters. The Guardian’s secretary phrased it this way:

“The basic principle that should always be remembered is that the NSA cannot be required to reveal to [a non-member] all the details concerning its work. It may choose to do so if it wishes, but nobody has the right to enforce upon it any such action. This is, of course, the purely legal side of the question.

“...The individuals and Assemblies must learn to cooperate and to cooperate intelligently, if they desire to adequately discharge their duties and obligations toward the Faith. And no such cooperation is possible without mutual confidence and trust.” (Letters to Australia and New Zealand, p. 9)

On the question of detailed information, the National Spiritual Assembly publishes its annual report each year, which includes a financial report. These documents provide accurate, detailed data and narrative on all the activities undertaken on the community’s behalf by the National Assembly and its supporting agencies. Any of the friends may refer to this published account, which is distributed yearly to all local Spiritual Assemblies.

It also seems to be true that, for every person who wants numbers and graphs, there is at least one more who is bored by them. How can any institution address such a diverse group?

Are we using volunteers?

These friends continue, “Are we making sure that to the extent possible positions are filled with part-time and full-time volunteers who want to serve the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh?”

The Faith is administered by a vast army of volunteers, whether in Assemblies, as assistants to the Auxiliary Boards, and on countless committees and task forces at all levels.

When one considers the totality of Bahá’í administration, one can see that one of the most remarkable aspects of the Faith is its reliance on the willingness of the friends to give of their time and to shoulder responsibility.

In that context, there are, for example, individuals staffing Bahá’í schools, serving at the National Center, staffing the offices of External Affairs in Washington, New York and Atlanta, providing care and services to Persian immigrants, Cambodian and Hmong refugees, the elderly, and caring for the community’s sacred properties, to name a few.

The National Spiritual Assembly has had good results in recent years enlisting volunteers who help with communications (400 “Vision in Action” presenters), task forces of various kinds (a dozen or more of them, including a properties management task force, and advisory groups on financial management and organizational development issues).

In fund development related to the Arc Projects, the National Assembly is working with an individual who, on his own generous initiative, offered to organize and promote a series of new activities nationwide. As of this printing, some 120 volunteers in the South are already working, and another 100 are being recruited in the Central States.

The National Teaching Committee benefits from the services of nearly 150 believers who labor on various task forces and committees. Likewise, the Office of Pioneering works with a network of more than 30 individuals who help the office’s five staff members recruit and train prospective pioneers.

In the final analysis, all these matters revolve around love for the Faith: in the questions that are asked out of sincere concern; in the responses that are made in the same spirit; and in the way the Faith’s servants approach their tasks.

Since many of these questions have been raised in the past, and the National Spiritual Assembly has regularly provided detailed reports and updates on these areas of concern, we are brought to a pivotal aspect of Bahá’í administration: unlike the relationships in this society and its government, which are based on distrust, Bahá’í administration is based entirely on trust.

One of the Assemblies phrased it this way: “Thank you for your frank and informative letter of December 5, 1993. ...[We] feel the candid way you have informed and asked all the LSAs to consult on the issue encourages maturity on their part. ...Be assured of our commitment to the National Fund, and please extend loving greetings and appreciation to the National Center staff for their devoted and sacrificial service.”

The Lifeblood

What is the power that travels through blood,
The force which keeps us alive,
That special spirit which moves through our beings,
And affects how we live or die?

We can care for ourselves by the way we eat
And by the way we live our lives,
We can preserve the heart which pumps the blood
And help our bodies thrive.

Just as the blood which comes from the heart
Has been purified to some extent
To travel through arteries and feed our beings
And renew our energy spent,

So, too, the funds which we give to the Cause
Will go to the heart of our Assemblies
To be prayerfully spent for the Glory of God,
For teaching and serving aplenty.

In giving to the Fund, we give from the heart
Like a fountain that empties itself,
Pouring its waters to feed the earth,
Unafraid of losing its wealth.

Purity of motive and concern for the whole
Will bring life to the body of the Cause.
In giving to the heart, we bring a new start
To our own lives, through spiritual laws.

A practice so precious as donating blood
Gives life and purifies one’s own,
And giving to the Fund of Bahá’u’lláh
Brings bounties to one’s very bones.

Just as we bond through giving our blood,
And grow as a real family unit,
So, too, our giving to the Fund of His Cause
Shows our faith in His Mighty Covenant.

Like leaves of the tree which return to the earth,
We offer the fruit of our lives
To Bahá’u’lláh’s Fund, institution divine,
Lifeblood of the Cause, we realize.

Jeannette Hedayati
April 1994 [Page 11]

The importance of race unity

The following letter from the Universal House of Justice, dated July 13, 1972, was addressed to all National Spiritual Assemblies:

Dear Bahá’í Friends,

The blessings of the Ancient Beauty are being showered upon the followers of the Greatest Name. Our efforts to serve Him and humanity are being crowned with victories throughout the world. As we give thanks for these splendid achievements, as the Cause of God spreads in every land, as our institutions become more perfected, as the number of believers increases over the face of the planet, our individual lives must increasingly mirror forth each day the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh and we must so live our lives that all will see in us a different people. The acts we perform, the attitudes we manifest, the very words we speak should be an attraction, a magnet, drawing the sincere to the Divine Teachings.

Bahá’u’lláh tells us that prejudice in its various forms destroys the edifice of humanity. We are adjured by the Divine Messenger to eliminate all forms of prejudice from our lives. Our outer lives must show forth our beliefs. The world must see that, regardless of each passing whim or current fashion of the generality of mankind, the Bahá’í lives his life according to the tenets of his Faith. We must not allow the fear of rejection by our friends and neighbors to deter us from our goal: to live the Bahá’í life. Let us strive to blot out from our lives every last trace of prejudice—racial, religious, political, economic, national, tribal, class, cultural, and that which is based on differences of education or age. We shall be distinguished from our non-Bahá’í associates if our lives are adorned with this principle.

If we allow prejudice of any kind to manifest itself in us, we shall be guilty before God of causing a setback to the progress and real growth of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh. It is incumbent upon every believer to endeavor with a fierce determination to eliminate this defect from his thoughts and acts. It is the duty of the institutions of the Faith to inculcate this principle in the hearts of the friends through every means at their disposal including summer schools, conferences, institutes and study classes.

The fundamental purpose of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh is the realization of the organic unity of the entire human race. Bearing this glorious destiny in mind, and with entire reliance on the promises of the Blessed Beauty, we should follow His exhortation:

“We love to see you at all times consorting in amity and concord within the paradise of My good-pleasure, and to inhale from your acts the fragrance of friendliness and unity, of loving-kindness and fellowship.”

With loving Bahá’í greetings,

The Universal House of Justice

Revising

Continued from page 9

be taken not to become bogged down in elaborate planning procedures or a complex web of goals. Plans should be appropriate to the developmental level of the community, identify concrete efforts, and lead quickly to the field of action.

Inevitably, the efforts of the community must be assessed and possibly revised over time to ensure that the growth and development of the Faith in the local area is ensured.

“The periodic re-evaluation of the effectiveness of the teaching work is an essential factor in promoting the growth of every community. Through this process a community would reassess its teaching program with a view to introducing improvements where necessary.”—written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice, July 30, 1987

Evaluating, revising plans

Here are some steps a community may wish to take to formulate or evaluate its local plan of action:

• Contact the Auxiliary Board. The Auxiliary Board member or assistant remains the best resource for supporting the local Assembly as it implements and revises a local action plan. Feedback from the Institution of the Learned can help the friends better understand how a plan is unfolding, and can suggest alternatives for new or reinforced initiatives. The Auxiliary Board will continue to be of help as the plan unfolds by stimulating the individuals to support the Assembly’s plan.

• Study support materials. The local plan of action is not a separate plan, but a part of the Three Year Plan. Local objectives should support global and national goals that describe the priorities of the Universal House of Justice and the National Spiritual Assembly. Familiarity with the Plan is therefore a fundamental basis for local planning. The booklet, “The Three Year Plan,” provides the key messages that delineated the current goals. It was sent to each community at the start of the Plan. Additional copies may be obtained from the National Teaching Committee.

• Evaluate and revise the action plan. The Assembly, with the support of the Auxiliary Board, should consult on the progress of the plan over the past year. What were its strengths? What were the challenges? What revisions in the action plan should be made to better achieve the goals? Reflect on the plan in light of the materials referenced above. What needs to be done to bring teaching in your community to the highest level of action and effectiveness?

• Consult with the community. The Assembly will wish to establish appropriate means for getting the input of the community before finalizing a revised action plan.

• Consult neighboring communities. Keep in close contact with other communities in the area to share plans and activities and to work on collaborative efforts. Some areas might have special consultative sessions for the progress of joint efforts.

• Share the action plan. The plan is shared with the assistant, the Auxiliary Board and the National Teaching Committee.

Creating a budget

An important component of the local plan of action is the allocation of financial resources in a local budget. Budget forms are provided by the Office of the Treasurer and should be considered as local plans are evaluated and revised. The local Fund supports the international, continental, national and local needs of the Cause.

The budget should reflect and provide for every aspect of a local plan of action; the local plan itself should include contribution targets for the national and international funds as action objectives.

The Universal House of Justice has indicated that the foremost project facing the Bahá’í world is the completion of the Arc. National needs, likewise, take priority over local needs; the key to achieving the National Fund goal is for local communities to set and achieve collective community goals. By exercising careful stewardship in the effective use of funds at the local level, Assemblies can ensure the fulfillment of their obligation to liberally support the work of the Arc projects and the International, Continental and National Funds.

Some points to remember

The National Teaching Committee would like to emphasize the following points as plans are made or revised:

• Place Bahá’u’lláh in the forefront of teaching efforts. It is important that people who learn about the Faith are aware of the unique Station and Mission of Bahá’u’lláh. The aim of all teaching is to instill in every heart the love of God’s Messenger for today. Sometimes it is appropriate to begin by teaching about certain social principles, but if we do only this we do not do justice to the Faith’s unrivaled ability to put principle into action.

• Complement proclamation activities with opportunities for direct teaching. We have been called upon to emblazon Bahá’u’lláh’s Name in this country. For this reason there must be vigorous campaigns designed to proclaim the Faith to the masses. The ultimate success of any proclamation, however, depends on our ability to reach those interested in the Cause through direct teaching methods, such as firesides and spiritual gatherings, where they can be exposed to the spirit as well as the letter of Bahá’u’lláh’s teachings.

• Experiment with a variety of activities. The Universal House of Justice has called for “a unity in diversity of actions” that

See REVISING page 14

“If we allow prejudice of any kind to manifest itself in us, we shall be guilty before God of causing a setback to the progress and real growth of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh.”

—From a letter written by the Universal House of Justice to all National Spiritual Assemblies, July 13, 1972 [Page 12]

RACE UNITY

The houses of rapidly growing Highlands Ranch, Colorado, loom in the background of the Bahá’í-led Unity Walk. (Photo by Dominic Chavez, Denver Post)

Denver plans to capitalize on King Week proclamation

April Goggans pauses to reflect during the Colorado Bahá’í Youth Workshop’s appearance at Denver’s Martin Luther King Jr. commemoration attended by President Clinton.

Bahá’ís in eastern Colorado are moving to capitalize on several recent events that have effectively established them as race unity leaders in that area.

About 35 Bahá’ís from several communities met January 29 to consult on the possibilities that have opened up through Bahá’í involvement in Martin Luther King Week activities and last November’s Calling All Colors conference.

Auxiliary Board member Carol Brooks called the meeting but was snowed in. Those who did attend shared their successes and began the process of creating a teaching plan based on the good will that has been generated.

Reported successes include an event in Louisville, a Boulder suburb, that attracted 250 people, and one farther north in Loveland that was attended by 150 to 200.

An amazing string of successes also was reported in the Denver area—all stemming from the power of music.

Singer-songwriter Susan Lewis Wright had introduced her song Calling All Colors, based on the program originated by Anisa Kintz in South Carolina, during the November conference in Castle Rock.

Afterward, Ms. Wright sent two copies of the song to the Denver mayor’s Office of Art, Culture and Film. One made its way to Wilma Webb, chairman of the Martin Luther King Jr. Colorado Holiday Commission and wife of the mayor, who promptly invited Ms. Wright to serve on the commission.

During subsequent meetings of that body, Ms. Wright and fellow Bahá’í Cynthia Phillips:

• obtained commission support for the Bahá’í-cosponsored Unity Walk and Rally in Douglas County;
• presented copies of Healing Racism in America by Nathan Rutstein and Racial Unity: An Imperative for Social Progress by Richard Thomas to Mrs. Webb and Jack Lang y Marquez, director of the Colorado Civil Rights Commission;
• consulted with two of Denver’s best-known gospel choir directors and singers on music for various events;
• presented Mrs. Webb with Calling All Colors T-shirts for her and the mayor and recommended that similar children’s race unity conferences be implemented in Denver public schools;
• talked with commission members about performing for various events including a conference on Women of Color at University of Northern Colorado;
• presented The Vision of Race Unity to Vincent Harding of the Iliff School of Theology and Leonardo French Iduarte, consul general of Mexico, at the Business and Social Responsibility Luncheon; and
• provided a meal for the Parade Permit Committee as members camped out to obtain—ahead of the Ku Klux Klan—permits to conduct Martin Luther King celebrations at the Civic Center and the state capitol.

Last but not least, they arranged for the Diversity Children’s Choir to sing for President Clinton and an audience of 40,000 at the area’s largest holiday commemoration.

(Left to right) Ernestine Mathis, Susan Lewis Wright and Ron Erickson sing with the Diversity Children’s Choir at the rally following Highlands Ranch’s march.

The choir, directed by Juli Redson-Smith, is made up of several children who had sung on the recording of Calling All Colors, plus students and friends from the Gemstone Bahá’í School. Currently, children of Cambodian, Mexican, African, Korean, Persian and European ancestry sing with the group.

Apart from performing for the President, the children were featured at the Unity Walk and in a King Week program at Mile High Church of Religious Science.

The Unity Walk itself was a huge success. Nearly 150 people gathered in Highlands Ranch, a growing suburb in Douglas County south of Denver, to honor the memory of Dr. King.

Participants trekked more than a mile down one of the busiest arteries to the high school, where a program was held. The event was sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Douglas County, along with St. Luke’s Methodist Church and the Institute to Create Patterns of Unity.

Assembly Chairman Douglas Allen told the crowd that this was a watershed event for the predominantly white area.

“While planners struggle to develop the infrastructure of the county including schools, highways, health facilities and community centers, the work of real community building has just begun,” said Dr. Allen.

“We’ve been asked, ‘Why observe King Day in the suburbs?’ To us, the answer is clear: The values to which Dr. King dedicated his life—equality, nonviolence and the celebration of unity in diversity—are vital to every community.”

The program opened with the debut performance of the Colorado Bahá’í Youth Workshop. Ms. Brooks and many other community leaders spoke, and the keynote address was delivered by Mr. Lang y Marquez.

Closing the event was a performance of Calling All Colors by Ms. Wright, gospel singer Ernestine Mathis, Ron Erickson and the Diversity Children’s Choir.

Participants clearly delighted in the program. Said one guest, an African-American resident of Highlands Ranch, “We want you to know how much we appreciated today’s program. It was beautiful. We also want you to know that we recognize that if the ‎Bahá’í’s Bahá’ís‎ hadn’t done it, it wouldn’t have been done at all.” [Page 13]

Teaching, deepening activities surround Atlanta’s celebration

By Tom Mennillo

The sun came out January 16 and so did the Bahá’ís for the annual Martin Luther King Jr. National March of Celebration in Atlanta, Georgia. It was a fitting end to a week in which high-profile proclamation events went hand in hand with effective follow-up teaching and deepening.

Not that the Bahá’ís needed bright skies to shine a light on their commitment to the oneness of humanity. A year before, they had turned out in large numbers despite a cold, driving rain.

This time the day was chilly and breezy but dry, and the Bahá’í contingent was a sea of banners, flags and signs flowing down historic Auburn Avenue.

Once outside the King Center, they joined a rally at which the Atlanta Bahá’í Gospel Choir performed and Robert C. Henderson, secretary-general of the National Spiritual Assembly, spoke.

“On behalf of the American Bahá’í community, which is dedicated to the abolition of prejudice and racism of every kind, committed to building a united world one heart at a time, I greet you in the name of the struggle to which we are all committed,” Dr. Henderson told the audience after he was introduced by singer/actor Kris Kristofferson.

That commitment, he said, is to “building a world that is safe for every child, that supports every family, that encourages the prosperity of every community.”

He noted that “Bahá’u’lláh, the Prophet-Founder of the Bahá’í Faith, taught us that we were all created from the same dust so that no one would exalt himself above another.”

And he proclaimed, “This is the age where we must achieve complete freedom from prejudice of all kinds. This is the age where we must establish the equality of men and women. And this is the age where we must demonstrate that every child, no matter his or her color, is our child, to be protected, to be loved, and to be nurtured.”

Dr. Henderson also paid homage to Coretta Scott King, who is stepping down as chairman and chief executive officer of the King Center, for “the model of nobility and courage and honor she has demonstrated in these years since the tragic passing” of her husband, the Rev. Dr. King.

“She has shown us,” he said, “that we don’t control what happens to us in life, but we do control how we respond to what happens to us in life. And instead of letting the dream die, she picked it up for all of us and encouraged it in all of our hearts.

“We owe her a debt of gratitude that we can never repay, except if we are to intensify that flame in our hearts and carry that vision of brotherhood and sisterhood until it is established everywhere in the habitable world and all children are loved and safe,” he said.

Afterward, the Bahá’ís walked to the Atlanta Bahá’í Center, only a block away, for refreshments and a chance to relive a wonderful week of events:

• The 19th annual Interfaith Service at which the Atlanta Bahá’í Gospel Choir, in its African-hued robes, performed. A photograph of the choir appeared on the front page of the next day’s Atlanta Constitution.
• The Cobb County Martin Luther King Support Group service in which six faith groups, including the Bahá’ís, recited from Holy Books and from the writings of Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. King.
• A deepening on “The Role of local Spiritual Assemblies in Entry by Troops” by Dr. Henderson at Georgia Tech. More than 100 Bahá’ís, most of whom were members of Spiritual Assemblies, were told that the maturation of the individual, including fulfillment of the Covenant through prayer, is the key.
• A similar deepening at Emory University, this time addressing “The Role and Responsibilities of Young Adults in Entry by Troops.” About 80 young adults between ages 20 and 30 heard Dr. Henderson say that because of this age group’s energy and relative freedom from commitments, it is “their turn” to take a leading role in furthering the Cause.
• The Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Parade of Celebration. Dr. Henderson again served as a co-Grand Marshal, several Bahá’ís drove VIP cars, and the Bahá’í float, as always, stood out, especially in the taped television broadcast of the event.
• Several firesides. Dr. Henderson conducted a fireside at which three people declared their belief in Bahá’u’lláh. George and Sharon Davis of Rockford, Illinois, spoke at the Atlanta Bahá’í Center on interracial marriage and acted out a play about the lives of Louis and Louisa Gregory. Kimi Locke, daughter of Auxiliary Board member Kevin Locke, led a youth fireside attended by about 20 young people.
• A “pep talk” by Miss Locke on traveling teaching to youth at the Bahá’í school.
• Performances by the Atlanta Bahá’í Youth Workshop at the Marist Cultural Arts Festival and at the All People’s Gala, in front of the entire King family and Betty Shabazz, the widow of Malcolm X.
• The Bahá’í-sponsored World Prayer and Multicultural Day Program at the King Center. The Atlanta Bahá’í Gospel Choir again sang and again made the front page of the Atlanta Constitution, this time with a photograph of a little African-American girl clutching the hands of a white choir member. “Heart’s Desire,” a group from South Carolina that combines traditional Gospel with modern folk music, also sang; Kimi Locke performed a native dance; George and Sharon Davis performed the Ojibway creation story; prayers were recited in English, Arabic, Malaysian, Japanese, Persian and Spanish; and Dr. Henderson and Carole Miller, members of the Martin Luther King Federal Holiday Commission, spoke.
• Performances by George and Sharon Davis at the Atlanta International School and the S.W. Montessori School titled “Storyvine Theater: Folk Tales from Around the World.”
• The 26th annual Holiday Commemorative Service at Ebenezer Baptist Church, featuring Mrs. King’s “State of the Dream” address. A highlight for Bahá’ís was Kimi Locke’s speech on what the Faith means to her. She described her travels for the Cause and her goals for a life of service.

Plano Bahá’ís take first prize for unity

Mayor Pro-Tem Dave Perry (second from right, wearing hat) shows his support as the Bahá’ís of Plano, Texas, prepare to march in the King parade.

This year, the Plano (Texas) City Council judged Martin Luther King parade marchers on how well they displayed “unity in the community.”

It was no contest. Out of the more than 20 groups taking part, first prize went to the Bahá’ís.

All along the parade route, the Bahá’ís waved unity banners and handed out peace statements and race unity pamphlets.

At the request of the organizing committee, the Bahá’í banners were displayed the whole weekend at the Douglass Community Center, an African-American activity center for children and youth.

Another program in honor of Dr. King was held two days later at Collin County Community College.

The 200 people in attendance heard Payam Maveddat, a Bahá’í whose father, Farhang Maveddat, was martyred in Iran in 1981, tell about his experiences as a persecuted minority and how Dr. King’s dream has influenced his life.

St. Louisans march

In January, the Bahá’ís of St. Louis, Missouri, were among thousands of people who gathered at the Old Courthouse to commemorate the 66th birthday of the late civil rights leader and Nobel Prize winner Martin Luther King Jr.

After the ceremony, Bahá’ís as young as two years old joined U.S. Rep. Clay, female legislators of South Africa’s National Assembly, and Mayor Freeman Bosley Jr. for a March of Celebration through downtown.

Marchers chanting “Keep the Dream Alive” entered a cathedral, where an interfaith service was held in honor of Dr. King.

Bahá’ís were distinguished by their “Racism: Just Undo It” T-shirts and a banner that read: “We Are All Flowers of One Garden...Bahá’í Faith.”

In addition, Hamid R. Azimi-Araghi, public information representative of the Bahá’ís of St. Louis, was an official guest of the mayor and the King State Celebration Commission for the celebration.

OK Workshop finds new opportunities

Orenda, the Oklahoma Bahá’í Youth Workshop, performs a step dance at the Martin Luther King Jr. commemoration in Oklahoma City.

Doors are opening for Orenda, the Oklahoma Bahá’í Youth Workshop, to teach the Faith following its enthusiastically received performances during the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday celebration in Oklahoma City.

Orenda is a Seneca Indian word meaning “flame of eternal love,” and that flame burned brightly as the youth broke into step dances several times while marching with other Bahá’ís to the city’s Civic Center.

There, the Workshop was featured, through the efforts of Auxiliary Board member George Cooper, in an interfaith program seen by more than 1,200 people.

Workshop member Negeen Mollain recited a prayer for humanity during the devotions. Then, after the lieutenant governor read the governor’s official proclamation of Martin Luther King Day, the Workshop performed three numbers.

They did a step dance featuring the use of canes, followed by a dramatic dance called “Racism” and a unity dance.

The audience gave the Workshop a standing ovation, and a reporter for the University of Oklahoma newspaper sought out the youth leader for an extensive interview focusing on the racism piece and the nature of the group.

Other expressions of support for the group’s message came from community leaders including a state senator. [Page 14]

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Continued from page 11

would bring about growth in the Cause. No undue obstacles should be placed on teaching initiatives because of fear of failure or mistakes, as long as the Faith is being presented accurately and with dignity.

• Use all the strengths of the community. Try to involve as many believers as possible in the teaching work. Place special emphasis on youth by getting involved in the Army of Light campaign.

• Create inviting atmospheres for seekers. Seekers should be aware that they are invited not only to investigate, but also to join the Faith, as soon as they accept Bahá’u’lláh. There are only two kinds of gatherings that seekers cannot attend: Feasts and Assembly meetings. The rest can be open to all people, where they can come into contact with, and be uplifted by, the spirit of the Faith.

• Institute an efficient process for enrollment. While it is important that new believers be aware of certain fundamental truths about the Cause, this does not mean that a person need be thoroughly acquainted with every aspect of the Faith before being allowed to join. It is essential that local communities not place any unnecessary obstacles in the way of those who wish to be members of the community.

• Deepen new believers, especially with respect to their right and privilege to teach and give to the Funds, and involve them in service to the Cause. This is crucial to a healthy community life and to the long-term growth of the Faith.

When your work is completed, ask the question: Will this plan bring the people in our town closer to Bahá’u’lláh? And finally, once the plans are ready, START RIGHT AWAY!

Suggested goals for Assemblies

Following is an excerpt from a letter written by the Universal House of Justice on December 24, 1975, suggesting a number of goals for local Assemblies to consult about as they make or revise their teaching plans:

A. Teaching (expansion)

1. How many new believers? (...The ideal is for each local community to double itself every year, since every believer should, in accordance with the wishes of the Master, guide one soul to the Cause every year. In some areas this may be an ambitious project at the beginning, and at the outset a more modest goal could be adopted.)

2. How many firesides? (Shoghi Effendi urged the friends to hold one fireside every Bahá’í month in their homes. The friends who are willing to respond to this wish could give their names to the local Assembly.)

3. Can a pledge be made to have extension teaching activities outside the local area of jurisdiction? (Obviously, only strong local Assemblies can sustain such a goal.)

See REVISING page 16

75-year-old student teaches on campus

Velma Rogers, a Bahá’í from San Angelo, Texas, has been taking courses at Angelo State University for years to maintain a Bahá’í Club and teach on campus.

She displays 15 showcases during the year in the Student Center, on such occasions as World Religion Day, World Friendship Day, Black History Month, Earth Day, Race Unity Day, World Peace Day, the International Day for Women, UN Day for the Elimination of Prejudice, UN Bill of Rights Day, Universal Children’s Day, Human Rights Day, and others.

At 75, she has been featured in the school yearbook as the oldest member of the 6,000-student body. She has earned 100 credit hours but is now monitoring classes.

A few international students are presently in the club, and Velma, an example to us all, welcomes anyone who is interested to join.

Power of the Creative Word

The importance of the Word of God to the spiritual development of individuals and communities is the topic of countless passages in the Writings of the Central Figures of our Faith. The Guardian and the Universal House of Justice have also placed great emphasis on this theme.

Interaction with the divinely revealed Word is the sun round which every facet of Bahá’í life revolves. Only the Word of God can supply the guidance and the spiritual power necessary for the transformation of the soul and of society. For these reasons, constant connection with the Word is essential to progress and happiness.

“The Word of God is the king of words,” Bahá’u’lláh wrote, “and its pervasive influence incalculable. It hath ever dominated and will continue to dominate the realm of being. The Great Being saith: The Word is the Master key for the whole world, inasmuch as through its potency the doors of the hearts of men, which in reality are the doors of heaven, are unlocked. ...It is an ocean inexhaustible in riches, comprehending all things.” (Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, p.173)

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

From the above passages we realize that the Word of God is a source of great power, is exalted above human utterance, and is infinite with respect to the “pearls” of spiritual knowledge it contains. We also see that we can only take advantage of its benefits through our own voluntary actions.

Other utterances of Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá reveal the powers of the Word of God over the hearts of men. Among these is the creative power:

“Every single letter proceeding from Our mouth is endowed with such regenerative power as to enable it to bring into existence a new creation—a creation the magnitude of which is inscrutable to all save God.” (The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 107)

There is also a transforming power:

“Can any power withstand the penetrative influence of the Word of God? Nay, by God! ...For these divine injunctions tame every ferocious beast, transform the creeping insect into a soaring bird, cause human souls to become angels of the Kingdom, and make the human world a focus for the qualities of mercy.” (Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 293)

And there is the magnetic power of attraction, which brings about unity:

“...these holy verses are the most potent elixir, the greatest and mightiest talisman. ...This Revelation is endowed with such a power that it will act as the lodestone for all nations and kindreds of the earth.” (Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 200)

In particular, the Word of God has an incomparable effect on those with whom we share the Message. Bahá’u’lláh Himself spoke about the necessity of memorizing His Words to use on appropriate occasions, saying, “So potent is their influence that the hearer will have no cause for vacillation.” (Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 200)

Other references indicate that the Word is the source of happiness, and of eternal life. Little wonder, then, about the necessity of deepening on the Word of God. But what do we mean by “deepening”?

The compilation, “The Importance of Deepening,” includes a number of passages that shed light on this question. The beloved Guardian wrote:

“When a person becomes a Bahá’í...the seed of the spirit starts to grow in the human soul. This seed must be watered by the outpourings of the Holy Spirit. These gifts of the spirit are received through prayer, meditation, study of the Holy utterances and service to the Cause of God.” (p. 51)

This makes it clear that studying the Word of God alone is not sufficient; that deepening is really a combination of activities that includes prayer, meditation, study and service. The Guardian placed great emphasis on the notion that reflection must be accompanied by action, stating that to be successful in our efforts for the Cause of God we must “meditate on the teachings, pray fervently for divine confirmations, ...study the teachings, ...and then act; and above all, persevere in action.” (p. 52)

Deepening should be undertaken by individuals on their own, and also by groups of the friends in the context of community life. When Bahá’ís succeed in doing this, marvelous benefits result:

“Hold meetings and read and chant the heavenly teachings, so that city may be illumined with the light of reality and that country become a veritable paradise by the strength of the Holy Spirit.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, in “The Importance of Deepening,” p. 14)

“...if an avowed follower of Bahá’u’lláh were to immerse himself in, and fathom the depths of, the ocean of these heavenly teachings, and with the utmost care and attention deduce from each of them the subtle mysteries and consummate wisdom that lie enshrined therein, such a person’s life, materially, intellectually and spiritually, will be safe from toil and trouble, and unaffected by setbacks and perils, or sadness or despondency.” (Shoghi Effendi, in “The Importance of Deepening,” p. 20)

In the “Strategy for Large Scale Expansion and Consolidation,” the National Teaching Committee offered deepening on the Word of God as a central component in a pattern of activities that guide and confirm individual souls in their spiritual growth, while also contributing to the transformation of entire communities. Through its influence on our hearts we will be made equal to every challenge, and the realization of our heart’s desires will be assured.

VISION IN ACTION 3 YEAR PLAN 1993 - 1996 MARCH TO VICTORY TRANSFORMATION AND GROWTH

“This Revelation is endowed with such a power that it will act as the lodestone for all nations and kindreds of the earth.”

Bahá’u’lláh (Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 200) [Page 15]THE FUNDS

Arc giving and the Three Year Plan

Pictured are the members of the San Francisco Bay area Bahá’í social group, ‘The ARC Raisers,’ which is sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Fremont and is actively engaged in fund-raising through social events, having raised almost $9,000 in 1994 with many more activities planned. A trip to Yosemite National Park by 350 people raised $6,000; the goal for the 1995 trip is $10,000 minimum with an over-all goal of at least two units of $9,000 for the Arc during the remainder of the Three Year Plan.

On December 30, 1994, the Universal House of Justice addressed the Bahá’í World:

To the Followers of Bahá’u’lláh in Every Land

Contributions received for Mount Carmel Projects since launching Three Year Plan now total some twenty-six million dollars. Forty-eight million remain to be raised to meet goal of seventy-four million dollars by Ridván 1996.

Immense enterprise gathering momentum; construction International Teaching Center commenced; Center for the Study of Texts progressing with full force, rising in certain areas beyond fourth level; terrace immediately below Shrine already gives preview beauty final completion; work other lower terraces advancing rapidly amidst expanse of green; upper terraces taking shape on steep slopes above Shrine. Entire Project stands in urgent need increased support through mighty self-sacrificing effort during remaining months Three Year Plan.

Ardently praying Sacred Threshold worldwide response this challenging juncture raising Administrative Centre God’s Holy Faith.

The Universal House of Justice

In the U.S., contributions received at the Bahá’í National Center for the Arc Projects during the first year of the Three Year Plan totaled $3.3 million. This year, if present trends continue, offerings are projected to reach roughly $5.2 million, while next year’s estimates range between $7 million and $10 million.

Our total for the Three Year Plan, then, if current trends hold constant, would be in the range of between $15 million and $18 million. This would be 25 percent of the Plan goal, or some 2,000 units. That would be a significant accomplishment, and many of us will have sacrificed tremendously. No doubt those sacrifices will earn blessings, in this world and in the next.

The question is: Are we satisfied with such an accomplishment? If our hearts should prompt us to aim higher, what else can we do to rise to the moment?

Servants to the community

Staff members in the Office of the Treasurer take a brief time-out from their busy schedules to smile for the camera.

Virtually every age, racial and ethnic group is represented in the Office of the Treasurer, a diversity united by hard work.

This is the office that manages both the revenues and the expenses of the National Spiritual Assembly, on behalf of the entire U.S. community.

Staff members’ backgrounds include Japan, Pakistan, Iran, Peru, the U.S. (even Moscow, Idaho!). Within this group, the newest members have joined in the last three months; one friend has been here since 1946.

One staff person was a member of a National Spiritual Assembly; one was a pioneer in South America. One has a master’s degree in business administration; others bring valuable experience from both for-profit and non-profit organizations. Most are Bahá’ís and all are dedicated to their service here.

The bills are paid here. Contributions, both paper and automatic, are receipted in this office (by two people!), to the tune of more than 100,000 entries each year.

And there are the phone calls: from Greece and Uzbekistan, Haifa and Hamilton Township (that’s in New Jersey)—as many as 100 a day! This group of dedicated friends attempts to respond quickly and carefully to service requests from all over the world.

Since 1990, the National Assembly has directed this office to become involved in development efforts which include new ways to save money, to achieve the National Assembly’s objectives, to support individual initiatives, and to assist work done in the World Center and elsewhere. New organizations have been created or helped by this Office, such as Mottahedeh Development Services and (an individual initiative) Health for Humanity.

Think about these friends, as they think of you, and please remember them in your prayers!

A letter from the field

Dearest National Bahá’í Fund:

I received The American Bahá’í yesterday, and was scanning it lightly at breakfast this morning when I came upon “Stories of Giving to the Fund.” I read them, but none moved me more, went straight to my heart than when our own Beloved Shoghi Effendi was promised the purchase of a piece of property by Bahá’ís on pilgrimage and they never followed through. That promise was of course a beautiful one, but what is it without follow-through and action?

I find myself in the same position this morning, promising to send more money, promising to give more to my local Fund which in turn National receives a part of, and yet I don’t keep my well-intended promises. As I once heard a long time ago, “If promises were kept, we’d all be rich.” I didn’t fully understand that statement until just now when I read the story.

As a past treasurer three years in a row for our Assembly, I can in a small way appreciate the magnitude of our own National fund and the need for consistent donations. I’m a single woman, having raised three kids, the last of whom just got married three months ago. There’s very little extra after bills are paid and food purchased.

But if the purpose of giving is for us to learn the true spirit of sacrifice to God, then there are no better examples than ourselves giving up an ice cream, video, movie or some other thing we really don’t need.

My Bahá’í community is outstanding and I appreciate where I live, what I have and how hard I have to work for it. I wish others could feel the fire I feel inside after reading that story.

To finish, I took out the envelope to the Fund and threw it in the garbage. Not a second passed when I had to retrieve it, and an overwhelming need to write to you that minute and send money came over me. I can’t explain it and I won’t try, but I think I know.

I thank God I’m a Bahá’í, and I have Bahá’u’lláh’s promises which He will never break. Please accept this small donation on behalf of my willingness to try and remember that story each time I think I can’t send money to our fund.

Sincerely with warmest affection,

“Washington State”

I thank God I’m a Bahá’í, and I have Bahá’u’lláh’s promises which He will never break.

From a letter written by a believer in Washington State along with a contribution to the National Bahá’í Fund [Page 16]

The next step: Empowering to serve

"The purpose of teaching is not complete when a person declares that he has accepted Bahá’u’lláh as the Manifestation of God for this age; the purpose of teaching is to attract human beings to the divine Message and so imbue them with its spirit that they will dedicate themselves to its service, and this world will become another world and its people another people."—The Universal House of Justice

Often, people embrace the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh when they have learned but a fraction of what there is to know about the newest Revelation from God. While they believe in Bahá’u’lláh as the Manifestation of God for this day and are basically informed about the Central Figures, principles, laws, and the administration they must follow, they may not yet understand, for example, why it is important to read the Creative Word daily or join with other believers to begin the process of building a Bahá’í community.

Teachers who bring others into the Faith have the responsibility to continue to teach them even beyond enrollment. Through continued loving support and guidance, new believers become empowered to arise, in full partnership, as our co-workers in service to the Cause.

Every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God is endowed with such potency as can instill new life into every human frame.

“Consolidation” is a common term for that vital aspect of teaching that helps the believers deepen their knowledge and understanding of the Teachings and strengthens their bonds of devotion to Bahá’u’lláh and His Cause. Successful consolidation results in new believers developing spiritually, teaching the Faith to others, and contributing to the functioning of the Bahá’í community and its administrative institutions.

Our initial presentations of the Faith give us an opportunity to establish paths of deepening and service. Of particular importance is that the new believers be introduced to their responsibility to pray, read from the Writings, contribute to the Funds, and tell others of their new-found Faith.

Besides teaching the Faith, new believers can: visit families of other new believers and discuss specific passages from the Writings; teach children prayers and songs; and encourage other believers to attend Bahá’í gatherings.

Paths of deepening and service can be developed very effectively through the process of teaching institutes. While the acts of service on the part of new believers may initially be simple and supported by the teachers, the institute can help the new believers develop the knowledge necessary to move along varied paths of service, which they will eventually be walking independently.

This responsibility to nurture the new believer exists whether enrollment comes about through an individual, a community, or a mass teaching effort. When a seeker becomes a believer through personal association with an individual Bahá’í, it is the responsibility of the teacher to see that the seeker becomes a firm and active supporter of the Faith.

The teacher may do this, for example, through accompanying the new Bahá’í to deepenings, or, if the new believer does not live nearby, through frequent correspondence. If people become Bahá’ís through a community effort, such as a series of public meetings, the Assembly or Group should have a plan of action for helping them to become functioning and contributing members of the Bahá’í community.

Members of the community should strive to develop personal friendships with the new Bahá’ís. New believers need to be warmly welcomed into the community, invited and encouraged to attend and take part in community activities, and offered assistance, understanding and support as they mature as Bahá’ís. The sponsoring institution is responsible for seeing that the teaching work continues when Bahá’ís have been enrolled as a result of a mass teaching effort (such as a direct teaching project).

Those who have accepted the Faith through mass teaching must have the opportunity to become deepened. Some of the ways in which this may be done are through organizing a traveling teaching circuit, initiating teaching institutes, holding summer or winter schools, disseminating Bahá’í literature, or organizing special study courses for new believers.

Many of our past teaching efforts, especially those involving mass teaching, have been successful in enrolling a number of new believers; however, these efforts have not yet provided us with an increased number of active co-workers for the Cause. This is primarily a result of the fact that the process of teaching (which involves bringing receptive souls to the point of being fully participating members of the Bahá’í community and actively teaching) was not fully engaged; a balance between expansion and consolidation was not maintained.

The importance of consolidating new believers will become increasingly apparent as we reach the stage of entry by troops. Without the help of new adherents, we who are serving the Cause in our present numbers cannot hope to administer the affairs of a greatly enlarged Bahá’í community or to continue expanding our membership at a rapid rate.

As the progress of humanity depends on the opportunity for our children to develop into mature, responsible adults, so the progress of the Faith depends on the opportunity for new believers to develop into mature, functioning Bahá’ís in the unfolding World Order of Bahá’u’lláh.

B. Proclamation

4. Are mass media facilities, such as radio, television and the press available to the local Assembly? Can a goal be adopted for such activities?

5. Can public meetings be anticipated? If so, how many?

6. What methods can be adopted for the dissemination of Bahá’u’lláh Bahá’í literature, such as distribution of books to local libraries, etc.? Can this goal be expressed in a challenging form?

7. Can the local community take part in the social and humanitarian activities of the society of which it forms a part? Could a modest step be taken along this line?

C. Consolidation

8. Can the attendance of the friends at Nineteen Day Feasts be improved upon? What about the anniversaries and other Holy Days? Can the increase in attendance be expressed numerically, such as in terms of the percentage of those attending?

9. Can regular meetings for the benefit of the local friends be held? If so, how often and when? (...‘Abdu’l-Bahá exhorts the friends to hold such meetings as a “constant” activity, and praises weekly meetings. He repeatedly counsels the believers to read and recite the Holy Word in such meetings and deliver speeches on the teachings, the proofs and the history of the Faith.)

10. Can daily early morning prayer sessions be held? If so, where and when? (If this is not feasible every day, an effort could be made to hold such sessions less frequently. At such devotional meetings not only prayers, but suitable selections from the Sacred Writings could be read. Bahá’u’lláh has pointed out that upon the Word of God “must depend the gathering together and spiritual resurrection of all men,” that “every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God is endowed with such potency as can instill new life into every human frame,” and that were man to “taste the sweetness of the words which the lips of the All-Merciful have willed to utter, he would, though the treasures of the earth be in His possession, renounce them one and all, that he might vindicate the truth of even one of His commandments.”...)

11. Can youth activities be encouraged? If so, in what way?

12. Can activities and classes for children be established? If so, could a specific goal be adopted?

13. Can youth activities be maintained? Could this be expressed in the form of a goal?

14. Is the community strong enough to establish a local Hazíratu’l-Quds?

15. Can a local endowment be acquired and maintained, and possibly used as an investment for the community?

16. How can contributions to the local Fund be encouraged? Can a target be adopted?

17. Can the local community serve as host to a district conference of neighboring communities and localities?

18. Can the local Assembly issue a regular newsletter?

When the goals are finally decided upon, it is important that they should be announced to the friends. It should be borne in mind that Shoghi ffendi longed to see every believer involved in Bahá’í service, so that universal participation may be achieved.

It would be most effective if the local Assembly, prior to such an announcement, would appoint local committees, to each of which a branch of activity or one or more of the local goals could be assigned.

Such committees need not consist of many members.

When the committee appointments are made, the local Assembly should be fully prepared to announce its goals and its committee appointments to the community at a Nineteen Day Feast or a specially called meeting of the community. [Page 17]

Bahá’í Schools and Institutes

“Bringing Forth Jewels from the Mine of Humanity”

National Education and Schools Office Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (708) 733-3492 / FAX (708) 733-3502 Internet e-mail:

8 Declare at Bosch

Fifty youth, ages 11 to 19, together with several adults took over the Bosch campus January 20-22 to begin an intensive Ruhi Deepening program geared to deepen those individuals who come to the Faith through large-scale teaching programs.

Many of the youth were Hmong and Cambodian, with others coming from American, European, and Persian backgrounds. Follow-up sessions will occur on two other weekends in the students’ home areas, ranging between Modesto, Merced, and Sacramento, California.

The youth came to Bosch to kick off their deepening and work with Ruth Breton, a presenter trained at the Ruhi Institute in Cali, Columbia, where she and her husband Hamilton were pioneers in Latin America.

As the weekend progressed eight youth declared their belief in Bahá’u’lláh. The eight were from Modesto, Stockton, ‎Kermin Kerman‎, and Visalia, California.

Finishing our classroom building project will make it possible to incorporate more such programs at the same time we have other types of sessions. The three new classrooms will allow incorporation of more versatile instructional techniques as well as offering simultaneous programming. We hope to have the new classrooms completed by summer.

On an interesting note, when this weekend was advertised in the Bosch brochure, a former travel teacher to Laos in the 1950s sent a check for $500 to help scholarship youth who wanted to attend the session. The travel teacher felt she had not reached the population when she was in Laos, was thrilled to see this happening with the youth so many years later, and was moved to offer her assistance and thus participate in this training.

LGBI Becoming South Carolina’s Hub of Activity

The Louis G. Gregory/Magdalene Carney teaching initiative is focusing on training and supporting activities through the education center and Radio Bahá’í. Since November over 100 people in South Carolina have declared their faith in Bahá’u’lláh. The Institute has become a hub of activities.

January saw two community retreats gathering over 110 friends from surrounding communities. The group, composed of members of the Auxiliary Boards, Local Spiritual Assembly members, parents, and general workers in God’s army, deepened and discussed family unity, goal setting, creating a more unified focus, and utilizing community resources.

Following these retreats, over 60 youth and adults gathered with Oscar DeGruy, National Coordinator of Youth Workshops, focusing on developing and raising the standard of service and teaching through Youth Workshops.

The Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute is well known in South Carolina through the radio broadcast of WLGI. In addition to this service, the Institute holds weekly children’s classes averaging 60 children and Sunday Unity Worship Services.

Green Acre Spurs Teaching Victories

A successful regional meeting at Green Acre on January 14 focused on a “Call to Action: Individual Initiative and Teaching” was facilitated by Dr. Gene Andrews, member of the Auxiliary Board for Propagation. Bahá’ís throughout New England deepened on “Promoting Entry by Troops” and consulted on teaching plans for the Northeast.

In early February, a pilot course for new believers brought together numerous new servants from the Northeast. The course was led by Nancy Modern and Liz LaBelle, who also serves on the Administrative Team for Green Acre. The course is being ‎development developed‎ for distribution.

Snow and Ice at Louhelen No ‎Deterant Deterrent‎ to Warmth and Fellowship

In January, a small group of youth participated in a very successful pilot program on “Preparation for Marriage and Child-Rearing.”

The program, being developed at the request of the National Spiritual Assembly, is aimed toward assisting Bahá’í youth in becoming the generation which will lay the foundation for solid marriages upon which Bahá’í families can be built. Look for further offerings of this program in 1995!

Mr. Habib Riazati delighted and challenged the friends during a weekend session on the Kitáb-i-Aqdas. Mr. Riazati, who will soon reside in Haifa, ‎captives captivates‎ each class with humor, wisdom and keen insights into the study of the Most Holy Book.

Another team of Core Curriculum Teacher Trainers were sent into the field of service following a lovingly facilitated three day workshop by Linda Bedford and Karen Olin-Parrish. These trainers will be implementing Teacher Training sessions within their local communities throughout the country in the next few months and will return for Part II of their training in June.

Louhelen is frequently rented by outside groups for conferences. In January, the staff hosted Oakland University for a weekend Leadership Seminar of students and faculty. The group delighted in the bookstore café, the newly expanded dining hall, scrumptious food and comfortable ‎accomodations accommodations‎. Upon leaving they reserved the facility for January of 1996!

Coming To The Regional Schools

Regional Schools Sponsored by the National Assembly

Oklahoma—March 31 - April 2, “Mission of Bahá’u’lláh—the Individual’s Challenge.” Contact David Gainey, (405) 622-2655.

South Carolina—June 9-11, at Louis Gregory Institute, (803) 558-5093.

North Carolina—June 30 - July 3, Mt. Olive College. “Oneness of Humanity: America’s Spiritual Destiny.” Contact Sandra Miles, (910) 767-6888.

Colorado East—July 1-4, Beaver Ranch in Conifer. Contact: John Bolz, (303) 666-9275.

Nebraska—July 14-17, Camp Comeca. Contact: Billie Kay Bodie, (402) 865-4335.

Four Corners—July 19-23, Camp Kiwanis, south of Gallup, NM. Contact: Carole Hitti, (303) 565-7910.

Montana—July 30-August 8. Contact: Marjorie Williams, (406) 653-3034.

Iowa—August 11-15. Contact: Diane Findlay, (515) 992-3388.

Green Lake Conference—September 15-17. Call 1-800-558-8898 for lodging reservations.

BOSCH	(408) 423-3387
GREEN ACRE	(207) 439-7200
LOUHELEN / NTTC	(810) 653-5033
LGBI	(803) 558-5093
NABI	(602) 521-1064

Sylvena Tom weaves at the Native American Bahá’í Institute. NABI has successfully involved the local children and youth in many activities. [Page 18]

GOD PASSES BY

Shoghi Effendi’s definitive survey of the “outstanding events” of the Bahá’í revelations first century (1844-1944) reviews the birth and rise of the Bahá’í Faith, the establishment of its administrative institutions, and the series of crises and victories that stimulated its growth and consolidated its achievement in that period. The book follows the Báb’s ministry from His declaration to His imprisonment and martyrdom; describes Bahá’u’lláh’s imprisonment and exile and the revelation of His books and Tablets; recounts ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s ministry, including His journeys to Egypt, Europe, and America; and reports the worldwide progress of the Faith’s administrative institutions during the first twenty-three years of the Formative Age. A matrix for future scholars of the Faith and the only book that Shoghi Effendi penned, God Passes By was written as a gift to the Bahá’ís of the West on the one hundredth anniversary of the Faith’s founding. It “stands unique in the annals of religion” as a religious history written soon after the passing of its Prophet by the head of its community “with access to all documents and materials and complete understanding of its nature and purpose.” Shoghi Effendi says that “a sound knowledge of history, including religious history, is of great help in teaching the Cause to intelligent people” and that Bahá’ís should master books such as God Passes By. He strongly urges “a ‎through thorough‎ study of the history and teachings of our Beloved Cause,” for such study is “the prerequisite of a future successful career of service to the Bahá’í Faith.”

6” x 9”, 462pp., introduction, foreword, contents, and index

Bahá’í Publishing Trust - US HC $13.00

BACK IN STOCK

Kitáb-í-Íqán HC $11.00

Epistle to the Son of the Wolf HC $11.00

Freefalling

by Red Grammer CD $15.00 CS $10.00

This recording for adults exquisitely captures Red Grammer’s exhilarating, soulful voice on eleven very special songs, nine of which are self-penned or collaborative efforts with Kathy Grammer. A work that carries a unique power to lift the heart, delight the spirit, and challenge the soul. The combination of Red’s stunning vocal ability and the Grammers’ magnificent songs make this recording a listening experience no one should miss.

45 minutes Red Note Records

Love

Jewels From the Words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá SC $5.95

Love is a collection of the inspiring words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Love is printed on fine paper and features large print and specially commissioned photographs. A wonderful gift for any occasion. The short but profound extracts are easy to read and memorize, and will be welcomed by those who seek spiritual guidance, comfort, and inspiration.

5-7/8” x 5-7/8”, 48pp., photographs Bahá’í Publishing Trust - United Kingdom

Friendship

Jewels From the Words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá SC $5.95

Friendship is printed on fine paper and features large print and specially commissioned photographs. The Master’s words demonstrate the meaning of true friendship: that we should express our good will in deeds not words, should overlook the faults of others, and should be ready to sacrifice all for our friends.

5-7/8” x 5-7/8”, 48pp., photographs Bahá’í Publishing Trust - United Kingdom

Shoghi Effendi: Guardian of the Bahá’í Faith

The Sign of God On Earth VT $33.00#

The life of the beloved Guardian, Shoghi Effendi Rabbání, from his birth through his passing. Experience vivid memories of his lifetime. A moving history presented in segments. Also featured are rare photos and a film of the beloved Guardian.

43 minutes Badiyan Productions, Inc.

World Citizenship

A Global Ethic for Sustainable Development PA $1.00

Prepared for the recent session of the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development, this concept paper proposes that fostering the concept of world citizenship is a practical way to promote sustainable development. It recommends the incorporation of this principle into education programs and public awareness campaigns and suggests how this might be accomplished.

10pp., 8-1/2” x 11” Bahá’í International ‎Commmunity Community‎

Dimensions in Spirituality

Reflections on the Meaning of Spiritual Life and Transformation in Light of the Bahá’í Faith by J.A. McLean SC $21.95

Dimensions in Spirituality offers personal reflections and analysis of the writings of the Bahá’í Faith, combined with insights gleaned from spiritual theology, philosophical theology, and the world’s religions in order to map out dimensions in spirituality.

6” x 9-1/4”, 336 pages, contents, acknowledgements, foreword, introduction, conclusion, appendix, ‎bibliograpghy bibliography‎, notes & references, index George Ronald, Publisher

The Story of Riaz Redfin

by Jennifer Lemmon SC $4.95

The story of a shy young fish who finds ‎selfconfidence self-confidence‎. Riaz is miserable, lonely, and shy on his first day of school. He soon learns, however, that there are advantages to being small, for he can do things bigger fish cannot. Part of a series of children’s books that uses entertaining stories about animals to impart simple values and models for ethical behavior. For children ages 2-7 years.

10” x 8-1/4”, 12 pp. Bahá’í Publications Australia [Page 19]

A Key to Loving

by Betty Frost SC $9.95

Why is it so difficult to maintain a loving, creative relationship with the person we have chosen as a life partner? Or harmonious relationships with our own family or colleagues at work? If love is the “first principle of the divine teaching,” why is it such a feat to be able to love? How can we deal with anger and hurt feelings? Find out in A Key to Loving.

5" x 7-3/4", 72pp, contents, references George Ronald, Publisher

Writings of Bahá’u’lláh

A Compilation

A one-volume collection of almost all of the writings of Bahá’u’lláh available in English. Includes The Seven Valleys and The Four Valleys, The Hidden Words, The Kitáb-i-Íqán, selected passages from the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh revealed after the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, Prayers and Meditations, the Fire Tablet, the Long Healing Prayer, and the Tablet

HC $30.00

The Bahá’í World

Volume 19 (XVIII) 1983-86 prepared under supervision of the Universal House of Justice HC $45.00

Contains articles on the completion of the Seven Year Plan; the Hands of the Cause of God; the dedication of the House of Worship in Samoa; the construction of the House of Worship in India; Bahá’ís and military service; the Bahá’í Calendar; In Memoriam; Bahá’í bibliography; Bahá’í directory; music; verse; and essays.

6-1/2" x 9-5/8", 813pp., contents, introduction, photographs, illustrations World Centre Publications

Two Wings

VT $10.95

Two Wings describes events that took place in three communities around the world when they decided to commit to the equality of women and men.

This principle was the basis for an unusual development project called “Traditional Media as Change Agent.” It was intended to raise the status of women. At the same time, raised the community’s awareness by assisting the men, in particular, to examine the spiritual, cultural, and social values that determine men’s and women’s status.

Using traditional music and dance, folktales and songs, problems that women face every day are presented to the community. The result is community action for change.

Managed by the Bahá’í International Community’s Office for the Advancement of Women with funding support from the United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM), the project was implemented by Bahá’í communities in Malaysia, Cameroon and Bolivia.

Much of the footage in the Two Wings comes from the participants themselves, providing a personal testimonial of how changing attitudes can lead to a changed society.

25:35 minutes Produced by the Bahá’í International Community Office for the Advancement of Women

A Bahá’í Marriage Programme

by the Marriage and Family Development Committee SC $4.95

A booklet examining practical issues of marriage such as how decisions are made and what strengthens or weakens a couple’s spiritual bond. Ideal for group discussion. Appropriate for non-Bahá’ís.

5-3/4" x 8-1/4", 39 pp., contents, introduction, references Bahá’í Publications Australia

Individual Rights and Freedoms in the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh

To the Followers of Bahá’u’lláh in the United States of America by the Universal House of Justice SC $3.00#

A profound letter that addresses issues crucial to understanding the relationship between individuals, the Bahá’í community, and the Bahá’í institutions. This document is pivotal to understanding the difference between the United States’ heritage and the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh. It is particularly appropriate for U.S. Bahá’ís, but any Bahá’í will find it a valuable tool for deepening on the standards Bahá’u’lláh prescribes for a mature society.

5-1/2" x 8-1/2", 22pp. Bahá’í Publishing Trust - United States

The Environment

Our Common Heritage edited by Jimmy Seow and Richard Bell SC $12.95

The Environment: Our Common Heritage presents the reader with multi-disciplinary perspectives of the global environmental crisis facing us all now and in the years to come.

5-1/2" x 8-1/2", 144pp., contents, biographical information on authors Bahá’í Publications Australia

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FRIENDS OF PERSIAN CULTURE CONFERENCE

پنجمین کنفرانس دوستداران فرهنگ ایرانی از جمعه ۲۶ تا دوشنبه ۲۹ ماه می سال جاری در هالیدی این Holiday Inn در شهر اونستون Evanston برگزار خواهد شد.

علاقه مندان به شرکت در کنفرانس باید برای تهیه جا مستقیماً با هالیدی این Holiday Inn تماس حاصل نمایند و ذکر کنند که رزرو جا برای شرکت در Persian Arts Festival خواهد بود. قیمت اتاق شبی ۶۵ دلار است و هر اتاق برای یک تا چهار نفر جا دارد. تلفن: ۴۲۲۹-۹۲۵ (۸۰۰)

همچنین علاقه مندان می توانند برای دریافت اطلاعات بیشتر با دفتر امور احبای ایرانی/آمریکایی تماس حاصل نمایند. تلفن: ۳۵۳۱-۷۳۳ (۷۰۸)

پس از تسجیل

BEYOND ENROLLMENT

تبلیغ مبتدیان با تسجیل آنان پایان نمی پذیرد. تسجیل مرحله نخستین از یک دگرگونی کلی است که باید در جان و روان و اندیشه و برداشت و رفتار فرد صورت گیرد.

در بیشتر موارد هنگامی که یک فرد امر حضرت بهاء‌الله را تصدیق می کند، تنها با عشری از آنچه امر بهائی را تشکیل می دهد، آشنا شده است؛ این دور است،‌ طلعات قدسیه امر بهائی را می شناسد و با کلیات تعالیم بهائی و احکام واجب آن مانند نماز و روزه آشناست. اما برداشت و فهم کل امر بهائی برای هیچکسی در مدتی کوتاه حاصل نمی آید.

بهائیانی که مبتدیان را در ظل امر مبارک وارد می سازند مسئولیتی فراتر از فراهم آوردن این آشنائی کلی دارند، و این مسؤولیت تحکیم مبانی ایمانی تازه تصدیقان و افزودن به معلومات امری آنان است. مسؤولیت هائی که افراد احباء و جوامع بهائی در برابر تازه تصدیقان دارند به طور خلاصه در زیر درج می شود:

• آشنا ساختن تازه تصدیقان با مسؤولیت های روحانی آنان، از جمله اهمیت نماز و روزه و تلاوت آیات و تقدیم تبرعات و آموزش و پرورش امری کودکان و شرکت در تشکیلات و جلسات امری،
• تأسیس مؤسسات تبلیغی و شرکت در آنها جهت تزیید معلومات امری و آشنا شدن با وظیفه روحانی تبلیغ امر مبارک به دیگران،
• همراهی کردن با تازه تصدیقان در جلسات بهائی و ایجاد ارتباط نزدیک با آنان از طریق نشست و برخاست با آنان و دعوتشان به منازل احباء،
• حسن معاشرت جامعه بهائی با آنان از طریق نشان دادن عواطف گرم انسانی و خوش آمد گفتن به آنان در جلسات امری.

هنگامی که احباء و جوامع امری آنان همت به تحکیم مبانی ایمانی تازه تصدیقان نکنند، از علاقه آنان نسبت به امر بهائی و جامعه بهائی رفته رفته کاسته می شود و در اینصورت نخواهند توانست وظائف روحانی خود را که با قبول امر مبارک پذیرفته اند، به خوبی ادا نمایند.

تبرعات تبرعات تبرعات!

CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE FUND

یاران الهی درباره اهمیت تقدیم تبرعات بسیار شنیده اند. الحمدلله که احبای ایران و ایرانی تبار پیشینه و کارنامه درخشانی از تقدیم تبرعات دارند.

تقدیم تبرعات نشان از خود گذشتگی اهل ایمان و نمودار فداکاری و انقطاع آنان است. جمال قدم در کلمات مکنونه فارسی می فرمایند:

"در بادیه‌های عدم بودی و تو را به مدد تراب امر در عالم ملک ظاهر نمودم و جمیع ذرات ممکنات و حقایق کائنات را بر تربیت تو گماشتم چنانچه قبل از خروج از بطن مادر دو چشمه شیر منیر برای تو مقرر داشتم و چشمها برای حفظ تو گماشتم و حب تو را در قلوب القاء نمود و به صرف جود تو را در ظل رحمت پروردم و از جوهر فضل تو را حفظ فرمودم و مقصود از جمیع این مراتب آن بود که به جبروت باقی ما درآئی و قابل بخشش‌های غیبی ما شوی..."

بدین ترتیب جوهر آدمی از مایه عشق هستی پذیرفته است. تقدیم تبرعات به صندوق امری نشان عشق احباء به آفریدگار خود و نمودار گسستن از تعلقات مادی است. اما جهان مادی ما را هر دم به سوی خود می خواند و به داشتن و نگاه داشتن وسوسه می کند؛ و این وسوسه سخت فریبنده است. ترک تعلق از مال تنها با تعلق روحانی و عاطفی به امری والاتر امکان می یابد. احبای عزیز بارها به ثبوت رسانده‌اند که تعلقشان به امر مبارک و محبتشان به صاحب این امر بسی بیشتر از علاقه آنان به امور مادی است.

یاران الهی این فداکاری را با فدا کردن جان و ترک وطن و مهاجرت و صرف کوشش و وقت در راه تبلیغ و تقدیم تبرعات سخاوتمندانه نشان داده اند.

هدف دیانت بهائی ایجاد برابری و برادری و هماهنگی در میان همۀ مردمان است. این هدف تنها با گسترش تعالیم الهی در میان مردم تحقق می یابد. گسترش تعالیم الهی بسته به همت و تلاش همه جانبه و مستلزم تقلیب قلوب احباء در وهلۀ اول و سپس ابلاغ پیام الهی به همگان از طریق تبلیغ فردی یا ابلاغ عمومی است. گسترش پیام حضرت بهاء‌الله به همۀ مردم کرۀ زمین مستلزم مهاجرت و دیگر فعالیت‌ها است.

با دخول مردم در جرگه اهل ایمان جامعه‌های امری تشکیل می شود و رشد می کند. سازمان دادن به جوامع امری، اعم از محلی و ملی و بین المللی، و ادارۀ آنها مستلزم سازمان و تشکیلات است و چرخ تشکیلات را کوشش‌های پی درپی احباء و تبرعات مالی آنها می چرخاند. حضرت بهاء‌الله می فرمایند "به اسباب امر مرتفع می‌شود." این اسباب از فعالیت‌ها و تبرعات مالی اهل بهاء حاصل می آید.

از آنجا که احبای عزیز بر اهمیت امر تبرعات آگاهند، بیش از این درباره آن تاکید نمی کنیم، بلکه به آگاهی آنان می رسانیم که این تبرعات چگونه و به چه مقدار جمع آوری و صرف می شود.

هدف مالی محفل روحانی ملی سالانه ۱۰ میلیون دلار است. محفل ملی ۲۰۰ نفر کارمند دارد که در سراسر ایالات متحده در مراکز و مؤسسات امری خدمت می کنند. ۶۰ نفر از این تعداد در دفتر محفل ملی کار می کنند. بقیه در مشرق‌الاذکار و مدارس بهائی و دیگر دوائر اداری به کار مشغولند. ببینیم اینان چه می کنند:

• کارکنان بخشی از دارالانشاء، محفل ملی هر ماه بیش از ۵۰۰ نامه به احباء، و جوامع و محافلی که با محفل ملی تماس گرفته‌اند، ارسال می دارند. سال گذشته این رقم ماهانه ۳۰۰ بود.

• کارکنان دوائر دفتر محفل روزانه به ۱۰ تا ۲۰ تماس تلفنی احباء - که همگی جواب به پرسش‌های خود را ‎آنآً آنًا‎ مطالبه می کنند! - جواب می دهند، این رقم در سال بالغ بر ۲۲۵ هزار جواب تلفن است.

• دو نفر از کارمندان دفتر امین صندوق سالانه به بیش از ۱۵۰ هزار فقره تبرعات رسیدگی می کنند.

• حدود نیم میلیون فقره مراسلات و مکاتبات شامل جواب به پرسش‌های یاران و پیام‌های محفل ملی برای ضیافات و رسید تبرعات و غیره از دفتر محفل ارسال می شود. خرج ارسال این مراسلات بالغ بر ۴۰۰ هزار دلار در سال است.

• بیش از ۱۰۰ هزار دلار به مهاجرانی که در نقاط حساس زندگی می کنند، کمک مالی می شود.

• مخارج مربوط به سفر و مواد لازم نیز چشمگیر است. تشکیل کنفرانس‌های بهائی و دعوت از اهل فن برای بهبود اداره جامعه امری و شهادت در برابر سازمان‌های دولتی و امور مربوط به پناهندگان و شرکت در جلسات شور و ملاقات با اولیای امور و مسؤولان دولتی مستلزم سفر و تهیه مواد لازم است.

تا آخر دسامبر سال گذشته تبرعات رسیده به دفتر امین صندوق بالغ بر ۱۱/۱ میلیون دلار بود. این رقم حاکی از ۱۵ درصد افزایش نسبت به سال پیش بود. اما مسؤولیت مالی جامعه امری آمریکا را نسبت به دیوان عدل الهی نباید فراموش کرد. تا ماه می سال ۱۹۹۲ فقط ۱۳ درصد از تبرعات رسیده به دفتر امین صندوق برای ساختمان های قوس ارسال می شد و ۷۸ سنت از هر دلار صرف مخارج ملی می شد. در دسامبر سال ۱۹۹۴ بیش از یک سوم تبرعات به صندوق قوس ارسال شد. بدین ترتیب هر چند رقم کلی تبرعات افزایش یافته اما از مبلغ تبرعات برای مخارج ملی کاسته شده است. دفتر امین صندوق ضروری می داند که یاران از این تغییر آگاه باشند و در تقدیم تبرعات این نکته را در نظر گیرند که افزایش تبرعات به صندوق بناهای قوس - هر چند اولویت دارد - با این حال نباید به قیمت کاهش تقدیمی‌ها به صندوق ملی باشد. و ناگفته نماند که کمتر از نیمی از احبای تسجیل شده به صندوق امری تبرع می نمایند.

حقوق الله

از دوستان عزیز مستدعی است تقدیمی‌های حقوق الله را در وجه Bahá’í Huququ’lláh Trust به نشانی یکی از امنای حقوق الله 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 21]"ای بندگان! مثل ظهور قدس احدیت، مثل بحری است که در قعر آن لئالی منیره پنهان و در جزر و مدش گوهرهای تابناک و عالی مستور. راه آن به همت و کوشش و طلب بسته و بر تمامی بنی البشر سد گشته جز بر آنانی که دل پاک و نظر باز دارند و جوهر جان و نقد هستی در راه طلبش فدا سازند."

"آفتاب حقیقی کلمة الهی است که تربیت اهل دیار و معانی بدان منوط است و اوست چراغ حقیقی و نور معنوی و لایتناهی. کمال و بلندی و عظمت او بر ملا و خلا ظاهر خواهد بود... جمیع اهل عالم را آنچه در عالم ظاهر است به انسان فایده می‌رساند و اما در صفات عالیه انسانی چون کلمه بوده و خواهند بود. اوست نار حقیقی و نور ربانی و شعله درافروخت ماسوى الله را سوخت."

جوانان و تبلیغ امر مبارک

BAHÁ’Í YOUTH AND TEACHING ACTIVITIES

در آخرین نامه محفل روحانی ملی خطاب به بهائیان ایالات متحده آمده است که آینده امر مبارک بر دوش جوانان نهاده شده است. درباره اهمیت شرکت جوانان در نهضت‌های تبلیغی، و تبلیغ در امر، حضرت ولی امر مبارک چه زیبا و مهیج فرموده‌اند:

در نخستین سال نقشه سه ساله برنامه‌ای به عنوان "Fruit of the Year" طراحی شد که حدود ۲۵۰ نفر از جوانان در آن شرکت کردند. در اثر این برنامه، جوانان آنچنان پر جوش و خروش به تبلیغ افزودند که در نتیجه برای خدمات فزاینده آنان هموار شد و ۷۵ نفر به امر مبارک اقبال کردند.

به این مناسبت NTC (کمیته ملی نشر نفحات) مأمور شد تا پیشنهادات لازم برای تکمیل خدمات جوانان انتخاب کرد. در سال ۱۹۹۴ برنامه تبلیغی "سپاه نور" Army of Light پی‌ریزی شد تا تعداد بیشتری از جوانان را در میان خدمات تبلیغی وارد آورد. در نتیجه بیش از ۱۰۰۰ نفر از جوانان در محفل روحانی ملی جهت تبلیغ شرکت کردند.

سیل روزافزون خدمات آن در تمام سطوح جامعه از جوانان بهائی دعوت کرد که در کنفرانس سپاه نور که از ۲۳ تا ۲۹ دسامبر سال ۱۹۹۴ در فینیکس تشکیل می‌شد، شرکت نمایند. بیت العدل اعظم سطح مشارکت‌کنندگان را تشویق فرمود که به فعالیت‌های خود بیفزایند تا اهداف نقشه سه ساله هر چه زودتر اتمام پذیرد.

از محافل روحانی محلی و لجنات تبلیغ جوانان خواسته شده است جهت کمک به فعالیت‌های تبلیغی جوانان وظایف تبلیغی بیشتری بر عهده آنان نهند. بدین جهت و نیز به منظور هماهنگ ساختن خدمات و فعالیت‌های جوانان ستادی جهت کمک به انجام این فعالیت‌ها تعیین شده‌اند.

از دوستان عزیز تقاضا می‌شود جهت آگاهی از نام و نشانی مسئولان خدمات جوانان به صفحات انگلیسی رجوع فرمایند.

نفوذ کلمه الهی

THE POWER OF THE CREATIVE WORD محفل روحانی ملی بهائیان ایالات متحده مارس ۱۹۹۵

احباء در تبلیغ امر حضرت بهاءالله روش‌های گوناگونی اتخاذ می‌کنند. تشویق و تردید برخی از این روش‌ها ارتباط مستقیم با پیشینه و تجارب و معلومات یاران و همچنین تجارب و علائق مبلغان آنان دارد. هیچ روشی را نمی‌توان بهترین روش دانست. کافی است که روش فرد بهائی تأثیر لازم را بگذارد و دیگران را به امر مبارک جلب نماید.

اما سوای اینکه احباء چه روشی برای معرفی امر مبارک به دیگران داشته باشند، استفاده از کلام الهی را باید بعنوان بخش مهمی از مبادرت به تبلیغ امر مبارک دانست.

تنها کلام الهی است که می‌تواند هدایت و نیروی روحانی لازم را برای تلطیف افراد فراهم سازد. بنابراین تلاوت آیات الهی جهت صفا بخشیدن به روح افراد و کمک به آنان جهت کسب سعادتشان دارد. به راستی اهمیت کلام الهی در جلب قلب‌های طالبان الهی بدیهیات است؛ بنابراین به درج چند فقره از آیات جمال اقدس ابهی درباره کلمة الهی اکتفاء می‌شود:

"از حرکت قلم اعلی نطق جدید معانی به امر امر حقیقی در اجساد الفاظ دمیده شد و آوازش در تمام جمیع اشیای عالم ظاهر و هویدا..."

و نیز:

"کلمة الهی سلطان کلمات است و نفوذ آن لایحصی. حضرت موجود می‌فرماید: عالم را کلمه مستور نموده و ما ننماییم. اوست مفتاح اعظم و در است است از انوار متنوع... بحری است مملو از لئالی ‎اسمار اثمار‎ از او ظاهر مفتوح... بحری است ذخار و جامع هر چه ادراک شود از او ظاهر گردد."

ترجمه نامه محفل روحانی ملی مورخ مارس ۱۹۹۵

آرزوی قلبی هر فرد بهائی کمک به برقراری ملکوت الهی بر گستره جهان است. جان ما مشتاق آن است که خدمتی تقدیم دارد که اتمام استقرار عرش خدا را بر زمین سرعت بخشد. این همان امری است که حضرت ولی امر مبارک در وعده صلح جهانی بدان اشاره فرموده‌اند که "آرزوی دل و جان نیک اندیشان در طول قرون و اعصار بوده و در رؤیای عارفان و شاعران در نسل‌های پی در پی سخن گفته و در کارگاه خیال نموداری ساخته‌اند" و تحققش نوید تمام کتب مقدسه در هر دور بوده است.

در این دورنمای ملکوتی هر فردی محبوب و مورد توجه است؛ کودکان از امنیت برخوردارند و خانواده‌ها مهربان و شادمانند. برای همگان روزی و آب آشامیدنی پاک فراهم است و هر کس را، عاری از هر گونه تعصب، سرپناهی هست. تیرگی تعصبات جاهلانه از میان برخاسته است. ستمدیدگان با برادران و خواهران روحانیشان که تاب تصور مظلومیت آنان را نمی‌آورند، دستگیرند. قوای امریه به جای سپاه‌های ستیزه‌جو و ثروتمندی و مستمندی و بیداد جهانیان بیگانه از خدا گزیده است، مردمان روحانی و هشیاری که خدا را می‌شناسند و تعالیمش را دنبال می‌کنند و احکام و تشکیلات امرش را فرمان می‌برند فضیلت جهان بشری را دیگرگون ساخته‌اند.

این همان نهاد نوین انسانیت است که آموخته‌اند که چگونه خدمت بزرگ زندگی است، انسان‌هائی که ملکوت الهی را در دل‌های خود استقرار بخشیده‌اند و بر آنند که آن را در جهان نیز مستقر سازند.

حال این دورنما در دسترس ما قرار گرفته است. ساختمان‌های قوس همان مقّر الهی است. بنای آن ساختمان‌ها بخشی از جریانی عظیم و مقاومت‌ناپذیری است که با بلوغ و تحکیم اساس محفل روحانی محلی و تأسیس صلح اصغر همراه خواهد بود. حضرت ولی امر مبارک فرموده‌اند که تأسیس نهائی مقر آینده جامعه بهائی نمودار اعلان سلطنت معنوی امرالله و حاکی از ظهور ملکوت پدر آسمانی خواهد بود - ظهوری که حضرت مسیح مکرراً وعده داده و آن را ستوده‌اند.

بنای ساختمان‌های قوس "تشکیل دهنده مرکز اداری" کره زمین را - که همانا مرکز اداری جهت نجاح عمومی بشریت است - حاصل خواهد کرد. بنای این ساختمان‌ها باید با وجود مسائل رفاهی قوی و باتجربه و اتکاء به جوامع در حال رشد و خانواده‌ها و افراد پرشور تحکیم یابد. برای ما مکلف بر آسمانی در بنیانی عمیق نهاده شد تا آن روز، شویم در قوای روحانی مسائلی که باید به آن روبرو شویم در ورای ملکوت معین و وحدت عالم است. حضرت بهاءالله فرموده‌اند: "اگر علمای عصر بگذارند و من علی الارض رایحه محبت و اتحاد را بیابند... در کنج چنین انزوائی را بر هر چیز عالم ترجیح می‌دادیم. ولکن اکنون ملاحظه نمائید این ‎مقار مقام‎ چه‌گونه شده است. آفتاب عنایت از افق آفتاب این ‎مقار مقام‎ منور شود. آیا بحقیقت آنان به لایحه انوار وفای جاوید لایقند؟"

محبت و وحدت آغاز و انجام تعالیم بهائی است. حضرت عبدالبهاء می‌فرمایند: "ان المحبة سر البهجت الالهی". همچنین هیکل مبارک تأکید فرموده‌اند که نقشه الهی مشروط به محبت و وحدت است و وعده فرموده‌اند که هنگامی که محبت و وحدت در قلوب جامعه احباء نفوذ کند عالم طبیعت مغلوب شود و ظلمت آنگاه امکان محو گردد و فیوضات ملکوتی حاصل آید. جهان چهره‌ای دیگر از خود تجلی کرده و هر یک از احباء شجرة مبارکه شود و اثمار بدیعه دهد. (ترجمه)

دوستان عزیز، بدین ترتیب باید در میدان محبت سرباز مجاهدت گردیم. باید هر روز با قلبی سرشار از فروتنی و سپاس نسبت به حضرت بهاءالله و تعالیم مبارکش در دنیای آیات الهی و مناجات به درگاه او غوطه‌ور شویم. باید روزانه بکوشیم و با اختلاف کنار آمده و به یکدیگر به مهر چهره شویم. باید برای مشکلات و وظایف دشواری که به عهده دارند، با محبت بسیار و از صمیم قلب دعا و مناجات کنیم. باید محبت انگیزه اصلی ابلاغ پیام حضرت بهاءالله به همگان باشد. باید محبت عامل تنظیم تبرعات به صندوق‌های امری باشد تا امر مبارک بتواند نهضت عمومی را گسترش دهد و آن را به صورت سعادت و ترقی بشری در آورد.

اگر هر همت به چنین مهمی بیندیشیم، ناامید نخواهیم شد.

فرا رسیدن عید نوروز و صیام را تبریک می‌گوییم [Page 22]

ADS / NATIONAL CONVENTION

CLASSIFIEDS

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

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

PRODUCTION ASSISTANT needed to help in audio and video production for the Media Services Department at the Bahá’í National Center. Principal responsibilities: complete work orders and other Media Services requests in a timely manner; support administrative needs including help with billing; work in production, shooting and editing as requested, both individually and as part of a production team. Qualifications: ability to work as part of a team; demonstrated knowledge of and skill in using professional audio and video production equipment; 2-5 years experience in the field and/or specialized training in a recognized program; ability to complete assigned tasks with minimal supervision; ability to work harmoniously within the Bahá’í administration and with diverse types of individuals; ability to work well under deadline pressures; ability to handle multiple assignments at one time; valid driver’s license. Knowledge of PageMaker and WordPerfect computer programs is desirable. For information or an application, please contact the Department of Human Resources, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-733-3429).

THE GREEN ACRE Bahá’í School is seeking applicants for its 1995 summer staff. Opportunities for service are available in a number of areas. Those with little or no experience as well as skilled professionals are encouraged to apply. Positions include assistant cooks, dining room help, dishwashers, housekeepers, groundskeepers, general help, children’s teachers, recreation leader, librarian, office assistant, and gardeners. Applicants should be available from June 19 through August 27; however, shorter terms of service can be considered in some cases. While full-time volunteer service in exchange for room and board is most desirable, provisions for additional compensation can be made. For information and/or an application, please phone the Green Acre Bahá’í School, 207-439-7200, or fax 207-439-7202, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Eastern time, or send a letter to Administrator, Green Acre Bahá’í School, 188 Main St., Eliot, ME 03903.

PUBLIC SAFETY Officers sought at the Bahá’í National Center in Wilmette, Illinois. Requires at least a two-year commitment for training and service. Ensuring the safety and security of National Center staff, volunteers and visitors, plus facilities at the House of Worship, National Center offices, Bahá’í Publishing Trust, the Bahá’í Home and other properties is our responsibility. Our standards are high for professional conduct, demeanor and appearance. If you are skilled in interpersonal relations, oral and written English, report writing, and have verifiable good experience working alone or as part of a team, you may be qualified. Often, new officers are assigned to the night shift (11 p.m. to 7 a.m.), which can be a rewarding experience for daytime students at nearby colleges or universities. If you are interested, either now or in a future appointment, please contact the Department of Human Resources, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 708-733-3429.

PIONEERING (OVERSEAS)

EMPLOYMENT opportunities overseas. AFRICA: Mauritania—nurse practitioner or physician’s assistant to work as ‎medial medical‎ officer for Peace Corps. Rwanda—primary health care trainers, family practice physician. Tanzania—urgent need for English teachers, computer teacher. AMERICAS: Brazil—pre-school and primary school teachers. Chile—third-grade teacher. Guatemala—teachers. Honduras—second- and third-grade teachers. ASIA: Azerbaijan—country director for project involving procurement of tents and basic supplies, water specialist, sanitarian, construction officer. Kyrgyzstan—finance & administration manager. Macau—teachers. Mongolia—urgent need for manager and assistant manager for an adventure travel and trekking company. Sakhalin—urgent need for teachers. Vietnam—volunteer English teachers. AUSTRALASIA: Marshall Islands—teachers. EUROPE: Georgia—researcher/writer for CARE. Hungary—“Entry by Troops” teaching project 8/16/95-9/6/95. Russia—small business bankers, English teachers, sales engineer. Switzerland—secretary for the Bahá’í International Community/United Nations Office. MULTI-REGIONAL: project directors and technical trainers needed by the Peace Corps for short-term pre-service training programs. English verbatim reporters needed for assignments with the U.S and offices in Russia and Central and Eastern Europe, for the Citizens Democracy Corps. Urgent need for self-supporting short-term pioneers, Portuguese- and French-speaking, for teaching and consolidation in French Guiana border town. For more information, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette IL 60091 (phone 708-733-3512; fax 708-733-3509).

Convention Seating Registration

86th Bahá’í National Convention April 27-30, 1995 Chicago, Illinois

Bahá’í I.D. # ____________________ Last Name ____________________ First Name ____________________ Middle Initial ____________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

• Please note: No children’s classes or child care will be provided (see note below).

Mailing Address _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Street __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City ____________________________________________________ State ____________________ Zip ____________________ Telephone _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Will you be staying at the Bismarck Hotel? Yes __________ No __________

NOTE: This form registers you for Convention seating only. You must make hotel reservations directly with the Bismarck. Please phone 1-800-643-1500 or 312-236-0123.

Do you have any special needs? __________________________________________________________________________________________________

MAIL FORM TO: National Convention Seating Registration, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. For more information, phone the Office of the Secretary, 708-733-3529.

HOTEL RESERVATIONS must be made directly with the Bismarck, 1-800-643-1500. To receive a reduced rate, please identify yourself as part of the Bahá’í National Convention. Reservations must be made by April 15, 1995.

ROOM RATES are $69 per room (1, 2, 3 or 4 people in a room). This is an exceptional rate for downtown Chicago, and we strongly encourage you to make your reservations at the Bismarck. Doing so will help the National Assembly keep down Convention costs by filling hotel room requirements. Cribs and rollaway beds are available on request for an additional fee.

SHARING ROOMS: The hotel will not find you a roommate. You must make your own arrangements.

TRANSPORTATION TO/FROM CHICAGO. The National Assembly has arranged for reduced rates on airline travel with various airlines. For information, phone 1-800-726-2875. Or you may make arrangements with your travel agent.

Public transportation (the “el”) is easily accessible from either airport to the Bismarck. Take the train to the Clark & Lake (or “Lake transfer”) stop. Walk south on Clark to Randolph, then about 1 block west on Randolph to the Bismarck. Remember, you’ll be carrying your luggage! The “el” is also accessible from the Bismarck to the House of Worship in Wilmette. The fare is $1.50. We recommend that you travel in groups and avoid riding the train late at night. For more information, phone the RTA, 312-836-7000.

CHILDREN: We strongly encourage you not to bring children to the Convention unless they are old enough to listen attentively in the visitor sessions with their parents, as there will be no children’s classes or child care. We ask this for several reasons. First, the sessions are long—three full 13-hour days and two half-days—and it is difficult to provide meaningful programs for children for that length of time, and we have neither the financial or human resources necessary to provide a quality program. Also, the Convention will take place in the center of a large city, and although some security will be available, we cannot ensure the safety of children in that environment. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. [Page 23]

National Assembly meets, notes Fund deficit

The National Spiritual Assembly met January 20-22. The most pressing issue before it was the steadily growing deficit in the National Fund.

The Treasurer pointed out that whereas contributions for construction of the Arc on Mount Carmel have greatly increased, the crisis in the National Fund continues.

The Secretary for External Affairs reported on recent activities in Washington and at the United Nations.

Although preparations for the fourth UN Conference on Women are well under way, the Bahá’í community at large is not sufficiently aware of the role the Bahá’í International Community and its national affiliates are playing; therefore, it was decided to publish a regular column in The American Bahá’í to keep the community informed.

The National Spiritual Assembly consulted about the increased flow of refugees from Iran, where pressure against the Faith has not abated.

The National Spiritual Assembly’s representative to the recent joint meeting of the National Assemblies of Canada and Alaska, two Continental Counselors and several Auxiliary Board members reported that consultation had centered on teaching native peoples of North America and northern Asia, particularly in Sakha (Yakutia) and Mongolia.

The National Assembly discussed the future of the Native American Bahá’í Institute as well as the general problems associated with teaching American Indians.

Considerable time was devoted to a discussion with the National Teaching Committee of the recent National Youth Conference in Phoenix, Arizona.

All agreed that the conference was a success, and that the youth had demonstrated maturity and dedication. It was noted that the youth had engaged in a teaching project among Latinos along the U.S.-Mexican border.

The National Spiritual Assembly then consulted and agreed upon the main aspects of the program for this year’s 86th National Convention.

State Department makes 55,000 visas available in annual green card lottery

The U.S. State Department has announced that 55,000 visas will be available by lottery this year with applications taken from January 31 to March 1.

To qualify for the green card lottery, applicants must be from an eligible country and have two years of high school education or two years work experience.

Countries excluded are Canada, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, India, Jamaica, Mexico, the People’s Republic of China, the Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan, the United Kingdom (Northern Ireland and Hong Kong are eligible) and Vietnam.

Applicants must supply their full name; date and place of birth (use Gregorian calendar); name, date and place of birth of applicant’s spouse and children; mailing address; and country of citizenship (if different from country of birth).

In the upper left corner of the envelope (use 6-10 inch by 3.5-4.5 inch only), print name of your native country, your name, your address.

Mail to National Visa Center, Portsmouth, NH U.S.A. Use the zip code that applies to you: Asia, 00210; South America, 00211; Europe, 00212; Africa, 00213; Oceania, 00214; North America (Bahamas only), 00215.

For information, contact the U.S. Bahá’í Refugee Office, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 708-733-3523; fax 708-733-3545). The Department of State maintains a visa lottery hotline at 202-663-1600.

Beijing site of UN’s 4th Conference on Women

ngo forum on women beijing ’95

The United Nations fourth World Conference on Women will take place September 5-15 in Beijing, China with a parallel gathering of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to be held August 30-September 8.

For the past two years, Bahá’í communities around the world have been taking part in regional preparatory meetings under the guidance of the Bahá’í International Community Office for the Advancement of Women.

With regional meetings concluded, representatives of governments and NGOs will meet this month in New York City, for the last time, before going to Beijing.

Any Bahá’í who ‎is wish wishing‎ to attend the conference in Beijing must register by April 30. For registration information and guidelines for Bahá’í participation, please contact the UN Office, Bahá’ís of the United States, 866 United Nations Plaza, Suite 120, New York, NY 10017-1822. Fax 212-756-3566; e-mail

Bahá’í women textile artists invited to display works in Beijing

In the most recent issue of The American Bahá’í, the Bahá’í International Community announced a call for Bahá’í women who are textile artists to take part in a worldwide campaign to exhibit the works of Bahá’í women artists at the United Nations fourth World Conference on Women next September in Beijing, China.

The project is being coordinated by Vicki Hu Poirier on behalf of the BIC Office for the Advancement of Women. In addition to the specifications mentioned previously, we have been asked to convey the following information.

Specifications. The piece of work that is contributed should be accompanied by the following: a photograph of the artist; a brief biographical sketch to be used in a pamphlet about the artists and made available at the site of the exhibit; a letter giving permission to integrate the piece with other works if necessary by cutting or altering to make it fit into the over-all design of the tapestry.

Artists are asked to send their contributions to Mrs. Poirier at Las Cruces, NM 88001.

Pioneer Glenn Lissner dies at his post in Bahamas

Glenn Lissner died unexpectedly December 24 at his pioneering post on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas.

He and his wife, Lois, had settled there as pioneers in October 1993, following a series of international trips and pioneering endeavors over the years.

During the Ten Year Crusade, the Lissners arose to pioneer to Nigeria, serving in that country from May 1955 to May 1957. They also served five months in Barbados 1966-67, three months in Montserrat in 1970, eight months in Jamaica in 1972-73, and six months in the Bahamas in 1977-78.

Burial was in Eleuthera, where Lois Lissner intends to continue on as a pioneer.

Robert Cameron, former pioneer to Scotland, Korea dies in November at age 62

Robert T. Cameron, a former pioneer to Scotland and Korea, died November 16. He was 62 years old.

‎Mr Cameron Mr. Cameron‎ served for more than 20 years on the Spiritual Assembly of Duluth, Minnesota, and as a delegate to the National Convention from that area for more than 10 years.

He pioneered on the homefront in Cloquet, Minnesota, and in Superior, Wisconsin, and dedicated his time and services on Indian Reservations in the U.S. and in Canada over a period of 30 years.

Longing to take the Message of Bahá’u’lláh to other parts of the world as well, Mr. Cameron pioneered for a year in Scotland (1973-74), visited several countries in Europe during the summer of 1980 as a traveling teacher, and pioneered again in 1983, this time for several years to South Korea.

Institute for Bahá’í Studies issues call for papers for second annual Conference on Bahá’í History

The Institute for Bahá’í Studies has issued a call for papers for its second annual Conference on Bahá’í History to be held June 16-18 at the Bahá’í National Center in Wilmette, Illinois.

The theme of the conference is local community history. Also welcomed would be presentations on the development of Bahá’í communities and other aspects of Bahá’í history.

Those interested in making a presentation should submit a 500-word abstract (two double-spaced pages) describing the 20-minute talk or paper they would like to present. The deadline for submitting abstracts is March 21.

The $50 conference registration fee will cover most meals. Information on accommodations will be available in a month or two.

For information, to submit abstracts, or to register for the conference, contact Dr. Robert H. Stockman, Institute for Bahá’í Studies, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611 (phone 708-733-3425; fax 708-733-3563; e-mail

The National Spiritual Assembly would like to remind the Bahá’ís that it is necessary to obtain permission from the Universal House of Justice before traveling to Israel, whether for personal reasons or to visit the Bahá’í Holy Places.

IN MEMORIAM

Theresa Abbott Lancaster, CA November 11, 1994	Jennie Dix Joplin, MO January 8, 1995	Lillian Jones Milledgeville, GA December 26, 1994	Ethel Peck Norwalk, CA December 30, 1994
Roberta Blank N. Hollywood, CA December 4, 1994	Fannie Friedman Elkins Park, PA January 5, 1995	Ruth Musacchia Capistrano, CA January 4, 1995	Ho Kou meh Rakhshan San Jose, CA January 10, 1995
Loava H. Carter Carmel, CA December 21, 1994	James Gallemore Columbus, GA October 15, 1994	Carmen Noriega S. Tucson, AZ November 1994	Ruhu’llah Shayani Beverly Hills, CA October 28, 1994
Kevin Clavin Macedonia, OH December 2, 1994	Lorraine Gross Milwaukee, WI January 11, 1995	Frances Edna Pahr Beaufort, SC January 15, 1995	Doris Stackpole Braintree, MA December 29, 1994
Flora Cox Grantham, NH December 24, 1994

[Page 24]

CALENDAR

On November 13, the Bahá’ís of West University Place, a suburb of Houston, Texas, held a reception to celebrate the formation of the city’s first-ever Local Spiritual Assembly. Pictured are the members of that Assembly: back row (left to right) Kamran Mouzoon, Fereshteh Hedayati, Zhian Hedayati, Kayvan Haghpeykar, and (front row left to right), Barbara Inahara, Haleh Haghpeykar, Melanie Mouzoon, Barbara Hacker and Nancy Serebrenik.

MOVING? TELL US YOUR NEW ADDRESS.	To avoid unnecessary delays in receiving The American Bahá’í, send all family members’ names, new address and mailing label to: Management Information Services, Bahá’í National Center, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611. If acquiring a Post Office box, your residence address (c) must be filled in. Please allow 3 weeks for processing. (This also updates National’s data base.)
A. NAME(S): 1. ________________________________________ I.D. # ________ Title ________ 2. ________________________________________ I.D. # ________ Title ________ 3. ________________________________________ I.D. # ________ Title ________ 4. ________________________________________ I.D. # ________ Title ________
B. NEW RESIDENCE ADDRESS: ________________________________________ Street address ________________________________________ Apartment # (If applicable) ________________________________________ City ____________________ ________ State Zip code	C. NEW MAILING ADDRESS: ________________________________________ P.O. Box or Other mailing address ________________________________________ Apartment # (If applicable) ________________________________________ City ____________________ ________ State Zip code
D. NEW COMMUNITY: ____________________ ________ Name of new Bahá’í Community Moving date	E. HOME TELEPHONE NUMBER: __________ _______________ __________ 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: [ ] 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.	H. I WOULD LIKE A COPY: [ ] Our household receives only one copy of The American Bahá’í. I wish to receive my own copy. I have listed my name, I.D. number and address above.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

MARCH

10-12: The Soul’s Quest: The Life of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 810-653-5033.

10-12: “He Means Me,” new digital tapes of the Hand of the Cause William Sears, facilitated by Mrs. Marguerite Sears and Anthony Lease, Bosch Bahá’í School. For information, phone 408-423-3387 or fax 408-423-7564.

24-26: Prospects of Global Governance (with the Bahá’í International Community), Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 810-653-5033.

24-26: Seekers and New Believers Weekend, Bosch Bahá’í School. Registration deadline: March 17. For information, phone 408-423-3387 or fax 408-423-7564.

25: Naw-Rúz celebration, Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 810-653-5033.

31-April 2: Fifth Haj Mehdi Arjmand Scripture Conference, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, Illinois, with focus on the Kitáb-i-Aqdas. For information, phone Robert H. Stockman, 708-733-3425.

31-April 2: Advanced Core Curriculum Seminar, Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 810-653-5033; fax 810-653-7181.

31-April 2: Oklahoma Bahá’í School, Stillwater. Contact David Gainey, Sulphur, OK 73086; phone 405-622-2655.

APRIL

8: First Symposium on the Sacred Texts: The Kitáb-i-Aqdas and Its Relation to Other Holy Writings, Texas A&M University, College Station. Sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of College Station. For information, phone 409-693-6789 or e-mail

8-11: Children’s Camp (grades 4-6), newly designed program by Linda Bedford, Bosch Bahá’í School. For information, phone 408-423-3387 or fax 408-423-7564.

13-16: Spring Break Session, Gender Issues, Bosch Bahá’í School. For information, phone 408-423-3387.

13-16: Women’s Awakening, a special program for women, Bosch Bahá’í School. Husbands will take part in children’s classes or be invited to perform other services. For information, write to the Bosch School, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, phone 408-423-3387, or fax 408-423-7564.

14-16: Youth Institute and Eagle Youth Institute, Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 810-653-5033.

15-17: Alabama/Northwest Florida Bahá’í Summer School, Camp Sumatanga, Gallant, Alabama (about 20 miles from Gadsden). For information, contact the registrar, Peggy Scott, P.O. Box 36205, Birmingham, AL 35236-6205, or phone 205-979-1199.

21-27: Elderhostel with three challenging seminars for seniors, Bosch Bahá’í School. For information, phone 408-423-3387 or fax 408-423-7564.

29: Ridván celebration, Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 810-653-5033.

MAY

5-7: Assembly Team Development Weekend (for Assemblies only), Bosch Bahá’í School. For information, write to the Bosch School, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, phone 408-423-3387, or fax 408-423-7564.

12-14: Parent and Child Conference, Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 810-653-5033.

12-14: Rendezvous of the Soul weekend/Computer Networking, Bosch Bahá’í School. For information, write to the Bosch School, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, phone 408-423-3387, or fax 408-423-7564.

19-21: San Jose Retreat weekend, Bosch Bahá’í School.

19-21: National Convention delegates’ report, Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 810-653-5033.

26-28: Local Spiritual Assembly Development Weekend, Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 810-653-5033.

26-29: Ninth annual Marriage Enrichment Retreat, Bosch Bahá’í School. For information, write to the Bosch School, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, phone 408-423-3387, or fax 408-423-7564.

26-29: Core Curriculum Teacher Training, Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 810-653-5033.

27-29: Vision Quest Youth Conference, Purdue University, W. Lafayette, Indiana. Theme: “To Build a New World Is No Easy Task.” For information, phone Al Black (317-742-4140), Jo Akhavan (317-769-3579), or e-mail

27-30: Marriage Enrichment Retreat, ninth annual Memorial Day weekend session for couples, Bosch Bahá’í School. For information, phone 408-423-3387.

JUNE

2-8: Elderhostel with three challenging seminars for seniors, Bosch Bahá’í School. For information, write to the Bosch School, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, phone 408-423-3387, or fax 408-423-7564.

8-13: SITA/Bahá’í Youth Service Corps/Pioneering Institute, Bahá’í National Center. For information, contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-733-3512; fax 708-733-3509).

9-11: South Carolina Bahá’í School, Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute, Hemingway.

9-11: Assembly Team Development Weekend (for Assemblies only), Bosch Bahá’í School. For information, write to the Bosch School, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, phone 408-423-3387, or fax 408-423-7564.

16-18: Hemlock Haven Bahá’í School, Hungry Mother State Park, Marion, Virginia. Concurrent youth retreat June 15-18. For information: Sarah Jane Lee, P.O. Box 2165, Lebanon, VA 24266 (703-889-0445) or Clint Dye (703-873-6754).

17: First Northwest Bahá’í Educators’ Conference, Yakima County, Washington. Addressing areas of concern to professional Bahá’í educators in the workplace and at Bahá’í schools. For information, phone Randie Gottlieb, 509-454-3662, or e-mail Rhett Diessner.

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

‘Alá’ B.E. 151 / March 2, 1995