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Volume 26, Issue 4

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Ridvan Message from the Universal House of Justice, page 3

Volume 26, Number 4

AAmerican Band"

‘Azamat B.E. 152 / May 17, 1995

86th National Convention

Delegates accept the challenge: Get busy

The 86th Baha’i National Convention, charged with an air of excitement and expectation in the first historic moments of the final year of the Three Year Plan, was held April 27-30 before an audience of more than 1,000 at Chicago’s Bismarck Hotel.

With time so short and tasks so widespread and crucial, delegates seemed more focused than ever on accomplishing the goals of the Plan and giving the Universal House of Justice and the National Spiritual Assembly their unwavering support at a time when

greatly enhanced by the Recepave advice of the three Counse present—Stephen Birkland, Wilma Ellis and William Roberts.

The members of the newly elected National Spiritual Assembly are presented to the

Convention. From left: Robert C. Henderson, Juana Conrad, William E. Davis, Patricia Locke, Jack McCants, Firuz Kazemzadeh, Alberta Deas, James F. Nelson, Dorothy W. Nelson. (Photo by Tom Mennillo)

responsibiliti rs who were . Opening session

After opening remarks by the Coun

disquieting rumors and insinuations about financial matters threatened to deflect the community from its steady course by introducing an element of divisiveness which they feared could lead only to grave harm for the Cause.

The discussion of vital issues during each of the Convention sessions was

On Thursday, the Counselors conducted a day-long briefing for delegates on the Baha‘i electoral process and their duties and responsibilities as representatives of the Baha’i community to the annual Convention, ensuring that delegates entered the Convention well prepared to shoulder those

selors, seating of the delegates and election of permanent Convention officers (Dorothy W. Nelson, chairman; William E. Davis, secretary) Thursday evening, the annual report of the National Spiritual Assembly was pre See DELEGATES page 30

A as National Spiritual Assembly members and guests Sai a first look at a congressional exhibit on the Baha'i Faith before the Baha'i Humanitarian Award ceremony at the Cannon House Office Building in Washington, D.C. (Photo © 1995 David Hathcox)

Exhibit and reception spotlight human rights

In July 1994 the Universal House of Justice wrote to the National Spiritual Assembly that “...the relations you have built up over the years with the various branches of your national government and with important organizations are of inestimable value to the Baha'i world and are of particular relevance to efforts to defend and protect the Faith in different lands.”

°

On May 2, the National Spiritual Assembly hosted an exhibit and reception for more than 200 guests in Washington, D.C., representing the culmination of nearly 15 years of paintstaking work to inform the political and human rights leadership in the U.S. about the persecution of the Iranian Baha’i community and the nature of the Baha’i community’s activities and fundamental beliefs.

Immediately following the National Convention, the members of the National Assembly hosted a reception at the U.S. House of Representatives’ Cannon Caucus Room to mark the opening of a special exhibit, “Defending Religious Liberty,” which was to be displayed for one week in

See EXHIBIT page 14

Advances in Arc Projects

We rejoice in the opportunity to announce a major advance in the Mount Carmel Projects marked by the razing of several houses, thus opening the way for the completion of the lower terraces of the Shrine of the Bab. These are the same structures to which Shoghi Effendi referred in a cable on October 1, 1954, to the Baha'i world stating that “preliminary documents have been signed in connection with the purchase from the Development Authority of the State of Israel of five houses, situated at the foot of Mount Carmel and adjoining the last terrace of the Bab's Shrine. ...” Subsequently, in March 1955, he confirmed the acquisition of these houses by the Baha'i World Center.

The action just taken with the full cooperation of the city authorities harmonizes with the intention of the beloved Guardian: it clears the site for the monumental entrance to the majestic path leading from the southern end of Ben Gurion Avenue up to the central edifice of the Shrine and beyond to the crest of God's Holy Mountain. This progress in the construciton work is complemented by yet another welcome development, namely, a municipal scheme involving restoration of the German Templar houses along that avenue and a general beautification of the area—a scheme that will ensure an uninterrupted vista of splendor northward from the Terraces to the sea, toward Bahji.

The Universal House of Justice April 4, 1995

Nedlede THIS ISSUE

> Former Counselor Sarah M. Pereira dies

> Annual reports of the National Spiritual Assembly and its agencies 5

> Complete listing of Baha'f summer schools

[Page 2]THe AMERICAN BAHA'I 2

ACHING

Laying foundations: a vital aspect of teaching success

Too often we despair when our teaching efforts do not bring visible results. We lose our confidence. We become demoralized. We should not be. Every one of our efforts is a building block, a part of the foundation on which our successes are built.

Take Rapid City, South Dakota. For many years the community taught, but their efforts were not yielding the expected results. There seemed to be little interest in the Faith.

Assemblies may re-form at any time this year Dear Bahd't Friends,

The Universal House of Justice is pleased to advise you that, as in previous Plans, local Spiritual Assemblies may be re-formed at any time during the final year of the Three Year Plan. Thus, communities with lapsed Assemblies, as well as communities establishing a local Spiritual Assembly for the first time, may form at any time during this year, i.e., from April 21, 1995, until sunset on April 20, 1996. This means that local Assemblies formed up to that date may be counted toward the fulfillment of your Three Year Plan goals.

The Universal House of Justice will offer fervent prayers in the Holy Shrines that Baha’u’ll4h may abundantly bless your efforts during the re pupils who had become active Baha’i teachers. They had come to her town as part of an Army of raph teaching team with their Baha’i Youth Workshop.

A third example is Springfield, Illinois. As in Rapid City, the community spent time establishing relationships with civic organizations.

This year they decided to trade on those connections, combining the Heartland (IL) Baha’i School winter school program with race unity activities for Martin Luther King Day and

Instead of giving up hope the com- mainin; munity decided to try a small project

using a new approach. They asked several local civic groups [the Institute for the Healing of Racism, the NAACP, the

Indian-white relations committee (a

months of this Plan. With loving Baha'i greetings, The Universal House of Justice Department of the Secretariat April 20, 1995

inviting people from community organizations.

Two Baha’i Youth Workshops, the Chicago Baha’i Gospel Choir, and a non-Baha’i African dance troupe were on hand to entertain. Attendance sur

mayor’s committee), and the Latin American Social Club] to help them put together a celebration for Martin Luther King Day.

The celebration was so successful that this group of Baha’is and non-Baha’is was asked by the Central States Fair Committee to help with the Committee’s multi-cultural fair. The event is an effort to promote cultural awareness.

The Baha’is will sponsor two booths; one in celebration of the United Nation’s 50th anniversary, the other promoting the oneness of mankind. Twenty to thirty thousand people are expected to go through the fair each of its 10 days.

What started out as a small project, one that re More than 3,500 attend

10th Grand Canyon event;

$300,000 raised for Arc More than 3,500 adults and children

quired help from other groups because the Baha’i community itself was so small, has snowballed into a major opportunity for large scale teaching . It is also a perfect occasion for an Army of Light project. All this from a few tiny seeds, a lot of hard work, and much patience.

Another example of foundation laying comes from Lac du Flambeau, Wisconsin.

Charlotte Hockings, a Montessori-trained school teacher, taught Baha‘i school to young children in the south suburban Chicago area. Now, 10 years later and a state away, Charlotte encountered two of her

passed expectations. The wonderful participation achieved would not have come about without the years of trust-building that had come before.

If these friends can see, after years of effort, the fruits of their painstaking labor, so will you. Lay your foundations brick by brick. One day, probably to your surprise, there will be a building.

“Praise be to God that the highest wish entertained by heedful souls is the exaltation of the Word of God and the propagation of divine fragrances. This is, verily, the secure and firm foundation.” —Abdu'l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Baha, p. 223

.. Tests are either stumbling blocks or stepping stones, just as we make them.” —'Abdu'l-Baha

Young Baha’is tackle rigorous course of study during Youth Weekend at Bosch Baha’i School

attended the 10th annual Grand Canyon Baha'i Conference, held last December 22-26 in Phoenix, Arizona.

The event was held in conjunction with the Army of Light Baha'i Youth Conference, which drew more than 2,000 young Baha'is to the city.

Among those attending were members of the National Spiritual Assembly, several well-known speakers and entertainers and Baha'is from around the world.

One of the highlights of the Grand Canyon Conference is the annual auction for the Arc, which this year raised $300,000 to help carry forward the Mount Carmel Projects.

The Grand Canyon Conference is sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Phoenix.

The Youth Weekend held March 2-5 at the Bosch Baha'f School began with the possibility of more California rains. But young Baha'is continued to arrive in groups large and small from Sacramento, Heyward, Citrus Heights, Grass Valley and other communities.

With each new arrival the excitement grew and n level rose. After checkin and orienta Friday evening, the weekend's activities got under way with a pre-dawn breakfast (marking the first day of the Fast) and a prayer walk Saturday morning.

The weekend course of study was twofold: (1) teaching, the Fast, prayer and service, and (2) a chaste and hol life. Sessions were conducted by Derel Cockshut of the Bosch staff and Paula Walstrom of Rocklin, California. The weekend was facilitated by Alice Moore of the Northwest Sacramento

Young Baha'is take part in a workshop eu during the Yo Youth Weekend in March at the Bosch BahG’i School in Santa Cruz, California.

THE AMERICAN BAHAT

Published every 38 days (pss. one pea issue) for a total of 10 a year by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’fs of the United States, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201. Second class postage paid at Evanston, IL and additional mailing offices.

ISSN Number: 1062-1113

Executive Editor: Jack Bowers Associate Editor: Tom Mennillo

The American Bahé'i welcomes news, letters and other items of interest from individuals and the various institutions of the Bahd'f Faith. Articles should be clear and concise; color or black-and-white glossy photographs should be included whenever ible. Please address all correspondence and other materials to The Editor, The American Bahé't, 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091. Send address changes to Management Information Services, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201.

Baha'i community.

Included in the discussion of a chaste and holy life were such topics as dating, sex, and drug abuse from smoking and alcohol to hard and soft drugs.

In the workshop on marriage, the youth were given sheets on which they were asked to list qualities they would look for in a potential mate, and the

ualities they felt they had to offer a ‘uture mate.

After class sessions, the young Boor had several hours of free time

for rest and socializing before dinner, which was served after sundown.

Some of the afternoon hours were devoted to service, with groups of six to eight youth given tasks in the library, book shop, children's classes and other areas.

The weekend's presentation theme

was “How to Present Prayer Creatively.” There were five interest groups: dancers, actors, writers, artists and musicians, each of whose presentations was shown at the close of the weekend on Sunday.

Actors performed “Blessed Is the Spot,” writers presented a round-robin type story about prayer, artists interpreted two prayers visually, musicians chanted a prayer, and dancers devised an exciting step dance, ending their number with the prayer that begins “God grant that the light of unity. ...”

After receiving information about Army of Light and Youth Year of Service activities, the young people cleaned their cabins, packed, acquired last-minute items from the book shop, and headed happily home with promises to keep in touch.

[Page 3]WOR

CENTER

‘AzamAt B.E. 152° Mav 17,1995 3

The Ridvan message from the Universal House of Justice

To the Baha'is of the world Dearly loved Friends,

At this Season of seasons, we greet you with profound pleasure at the increased activity throughout the Baha’{ community during the year just passed and with ardent expectations as to what must and can be accomplished during the last third of the Three Year Plan. We feel both concern and hope in the face of the despair besetting leaders of nations and peoples in their search for solutions to pressing, social problems. Indeed, such desperation is tantamount to a worldwide cry for the Teachings of Bahd’u’llah, truly a challenge and a promise no conscientious Bahd’t institution or individual can ignore.

No occasion has more sharply conveyed this melancholy outlook than the recent World Summit for Social Development, the latest in a series of international eaters of world leaders called by the United Nations. But however little may be the immediate influence of such events on the policies of governments, however much the vast majority of the world’s jpogulation may disregard or be unaware of them, their successive occurrence indicates to any Baha‘f observer a gradual movement toward the ultimate fulfillment of the will of Baha‘u’llah that the rulers of nations meet to consult and decide on the outstanding issues confronting an EreneineY, global society.

Propitiously on that momentous occasion in Copenhagen, an impressive Baha'i effort, involving some 250 friends from more than 40 countries, was mounted to acquaint the participants in the Summit and the related NGO Forum with the remedies prescribed by the Divine Physician. This effort was extended beyond the Summit and is even now continuing in many places throughout the world. We applaud with heartfelt gratitude the Baha’f institutions, agencies and individuals who produced this spate of action before, during and after the Summit, for surely it evinced both the further advance of our world community in influencing the processes toward the Lesser Peace and a multiplication of op rtunities for a wider diffusion of the reformative

lessage of Bahd’u’lléh. As such world events take place with greater frequency and the Baha’i community pursues its goals with increased intensity, we can see more clearly the drawing closer together of the parallel processes about which Shoghi Effendi wrote several decades ago: the one leading to the political union of nations, the other to the ultimate union of hearts in one common faith.

We make these observations against an encouraging pacsground of development in the Baha’f community during the second year of the Three Year Plan. Even more thrilling than the leap in external affairs activities at local and national levels are the evidences of a qualitative change in the response of believers everywhere to the call to teach. A deeper understanding of this inescapable, individual duty is implied by the rise in teaching activity, a heartening situation resulting from several stimulating factors which all together augur well for the longawaited influx of troops of new believers. Among these factors are the attention being given to the compilation on entry by troops as it appears in an increasing number of languages, the influence of the movement of International and Continental Counselors throughout the globe, the evolution in the functioning of Auxiliary Board members and their assistants, the effects of the emphasis being placed on the education of children, and the vigor of the youth in initiating teaching projects and engaging in a range of other Baha’f activities.

Conducive to this positive picture is the gatherin, strength of Spiritual Assemblies, which are call upon to cope with manifold challenges while endeavoring primarily to focus on the demands of the teaching work. We are especially mindful of the bur dens borne by National Spiritual Assemblies as the communities within their jurisdictions grow more diverse in their composition and more complex in their demands upon the guidance and assistance of these institutions.

The combined impression of the various stages of development at which the community has arrived suggests that strong effort is being devoted to the triple theme of the Plan, which calls for enhancing the vitality of the faith of individual believers, greatly developing the human resources of the Cause, and fostering the proper functioning of local and national Baha‘ institutions. But as there is yet much to be

Beyond the need to win our goals, humanity’s current plight summons us to redoubled action. The cloud of despair hanging over the fortunes of a deranged world is the very harbinger of the spring rain that can quench the spiritual and material thirst of every people. It has only to be seeded through constant and confident acts of teaching.

done along these lines, a more striking response is required of individuals and institutions, if our community is to combat the ravages of a rampant moral decadence, to raise up a massive army of consecrated souls to meet the demands of teaching and of administering to the affairs of the Faith, and to render our institutions fit for the tasks that a burst in the size of the community will surely impose upon them.

Fundamental to any effective response to the immediate challenges facing the community are these requisites which are especially addressed to the individual and the local Spiritual Assembly: On the one hand is the initiative that it is the duty and privilege of the individual to take in teaching the Cause and in obtaining a deeper understanding of the purpose and requirements of the Faith. Parallel with the exercise of such initiative is the necessity of the individual’s participation in collective endeavors, such as community functions and projects. On the other hand is the role of the local Spiritual Assembly to welcome, encourage and accommodate the initiatives of individual believers to the maximum extent possible; and there is, too, the responsibility of the Assembly to devise or promote plans that will employ the alent and abilities of the individual members of its community, and that will involve individuals in collective action, such as teaching and development projects, institutes, and other group activities. The effects of conscientious attempts at realizing these inseparable requisites will be to expand and consolidate the community and to foster a climate of unified action.

During the last year, there was a sharp increase in the visits to the World Center of high-ranking government officials, other dignitaries and media representatives, demonstrating the growing significance of the spiritual and administrative center of the Faith in the eyes of the world. This appeared to underscore a trend toward a greater familiarity of the governments of the nations with the evolving center of a World Faith. Viewing this trend from the Mountain of God, the site of the current construction projects, and considering it in conjunction with the developments taking place in local and national Baha’f communities, we can appreciate more adequately the unfolding reality oft e vision projected by Shoghi Effendi when he explained the implications of the raising up of buildings that will constitute the world administrative seat of the Faith of Bahd‘u’llah. “This vast and irresistible process,” he said, “will synchronize with two no less significant developments—the establishment of the Lesser

Peace and the evolution of Baha’i national and local institutions.” It is a vision which, given the state of the world, compels the completion of the Mount Carmel Projects as scheduled.

These projects are advancing with remarkable speed astonishing pilgrims, tourists and local resi nts Pyatheln magnitude and emerging magnificence. The construction work is occurring on all structures at once. Work on seven of the Terraces below and five above the Shrine of the Bab is in full force. More construction contracts were signed during this year than in any previous one, including the contract recently awarded to an Italian firm for the supply of the marble for the buildings on the Arc. Clearly, the work has gathered a momentum that can abide no delay. Hence, a matching momentum in the flow of contributions is imperative, if the remaining forty million dollars toward fulfillment of the Three Year Plan goal of seventy-four million dollars is to be provided by Ridvan 1996.

The new year begins auspiciously with the formation this Ridvan of five National Spiritual Assemblies. Our representatives to the inaugural National Conventions are the Hand of the Cause of God Amatu’lBaha Ruhiyyih Khaénum, Armenia and Georgia; the Hand of the Cause ‘AliMuhammad Varq§, Belarus and Sicily; Counselor Hushang Ahdieh, Eritrea. Moreover, during this period the communities of Bophuthatswana, Ciskei, South Africa and Transkei will merge under the jurisdiction of one National Spiritual Assembly of South Africa, so as to reflect the recent political reunion of that region. As a result of the foregoing, the number of National Spiritual Assemblies throughout the world will rise from 172 to 174.

Beloved co-workers: Beyond the need to win our goals, humanity’s current plight summons us to redoubled action. The cloud of despair hanging over the fortunes of a deranged world is the very harbinger of the spring rain that can quench the spiritual and material thirst of every ipeorle: It has onl vA tobe seeded through constant and confident acts of teaching. The performance of such acts, though dependent for reinforcement on the functions of Baha’f institutions, rests primarily and ultimately with Baha’i individuals.

Let no excessive self-criticism or any feelings of inadequacy, inability or inexperience hinder you or cause you to be afraid. Bury your fears in the assurances of Bahd’u’llah. Has He not asserted that upon anyone who mentions His Name will descend the “hosts of Divine inspiration” and that on such a one will also descend the “Concourse on high, each bearing aloft a chalice of pure light”? Step forth, then, into the arena where all His loved ones are equally summoned, equally challenged, and abundantly blessed. For to teach, Baha’u’llah Himself affirms, is to do the “most meritorious of all deeds.” And at this extraordinary moment in the history of the planet, nothing whatever is of more critical importance than inviting people of every sort and every gift to the banquet table of the Lord of Hosts.

As we send you this message, clearly before us is a vision of untold victories waiting to be seized. We are certain you can realize a myriad of these in the remaining time of the Three Year Plan. Just such an accomplishment must earnestly be striven for, so as to set the stage for the next global enterprise to be launched at Ridvan 1996. There shall be mobilized then a world-embracing campaign to ensure a befitting crescendo to the achievements of a century regarded by no less than ‘Abdu’l-Baha Himself as a

riod that will have “left traces which shall last

forever.”

With loving Baha‘i greetings,

The Universal House of Justice Ridvan 152

[Page 4]THe American BAHA’ 4

lO) NSN)

In December the Universal House of Justice announced the joyful news that five new National Spiritual Assemblies will be elected at Ridvan for Eritrea, Armenia, Georgia, Belarus and Sicily.

The Supreme Body noted that “These thrilling Prospects denote the quickening pace of the consolidation process in different parts of the world, making possible a further thrust in the evolution of the wondrous System originated by the Lord of the Age for ordering the affairs and ultimately guaranteeing the peace of the entire planet. In their contemplation of such impending victories, may the friends everywhere derive fresh encourpemen’ to increase and accelerate their manifold

forts in spreading the Message of Baha‘u’llah in all regions.”

The time to “increase and accelerate” our efforts is now! More traveling teachers are needed immediately and throughout the year in the above five countries and others.

URGENT: Traveling teachers and pioneers are

ay el

Time has come to ‘increase, accelerate’ our efforts

needed to help the expansion and consolidation work before and after the first National Conventions of ARMENIA and GEORGIA.

June 29-July 2. European Regional Baha’f Conference in ALBANIA focused on expansion and consolidation in Albania, Bulgaria and Romania. Attendance of Hand of the Cause Amatu’l-Baha Rithiyyih Khanum planned.

July 4-Aug. 4, July 30-Aug. 28. “Call for Teaching” campaigns in BULGARIA following the conference in Albania in June. Plan for one or both campaigns, both preceded by a week-long orientation.

July 21-28. Summer school in DENMARK with many interesting speakers and events. Consider this potential deepening “break” from a summer traveling teaching itinerary!

Aug. 16-Sep. 6. The “Entry by Troops Project” in HUNGARY. Teams of traveling teachers will work in all 19 regions of Hungary using several proclamation approaches to reach all strata of society. Traveling teachers also welcome before and after the

project for preparation and follow-up work.

Aug. 30-Sep. 8. Non-Governmental Organizations Forum parallel to the United Nations fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing, CHINA. Contact the United Nations Office of the Baha’is of the United States immediately at 212756-3500.

October 23-28. Annual Meeting of the International Society for Agriculture and Rural Development in Acuto, ITALY. Traveling teachers and pioneers are needed for the islands of Sardegna and Elba, Italy.

January 11-14, 1996. International Teaching Conference in NEW ZEALAND.

If you can arise to meet one of these needs and you have not served as an international traveling teacher or pioneer within the last two years, please contact your local Spiritual Assembly to initiate the traveling teaching process. Otherwise, contact the Office of Pioneering directly for more information.

Now is time to learn about SITA Programs

Sensitive International Teaching Areas Programs (SITA)—coordinated by the Office of Pioneering. Now also available on aregional/local basis in many areas of the country.

What is a SITA?

Why should you know about SITA programs and deepenings?

For answers to these and other questions about SITA, contact your local Spiritual Assembly or the Office of Pioneering, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette IL 60091 (phone 708-733-3506).

OPPORTUNITIES IN CHINA

Teaching positions: Beijing, Chongqing, Shenyang and Tianjin (college level). Guangzhou, Beijing (kindergarten level). Guangzhou, Huizhou (primary and middle school level).

United Airlines has openings for sales executives and a human resources manager.

Also: U.S.-China Peoples Friendship Association (US-CPFA) helps educators make contact with institutions and the Ministry of Education in the PRC. The USCPFA will send a packet of materials that includes information on recruitment, application forms and related documents, teacher job description, anda list of resources. Send a brief request letter and a check for $7.50 (payable to USCPFA/Teach-in-China Program) to Ms. Jo Croon, national coordinator, Teach-in-China Program, P.O. Box 387, Union City, GA 30291.

For more information, please contact Ms. Gwili Posey (phone 708-733-3512; fax 708-733-3509; e-mail

Correction

In the column headed “Excellence in All Things” (September 27), the first name of Steven King, a Baha'i from Renton, Washington, who won first prize at the 1994 National Finger-Picking Guitar Championships in Winfield, Kansas, was blatantly misspelled. We apologize for the error.

You are needed now!

Youth can perform many services around the world

The enthusiastic services of Baha’i youth are needed all over the U.S. and the world. The wide range of needs and opportunities include such arenas as teaching and consolidation, children’s classes and other educational activities, administrative assistance to Bahd’i institutions, a variety of social and economic development

rojects, proclaiming the Faith through the arts, mobilizing the youth of a region or even a country, and more.

In the most recent pioneer call from the Universal House of Justice, 97 countries listed specific needs and opportunities for young pioneers, including many university study options. In addition, many National Spiritual Assemblies have written to our national community to advise of the following opportunities:

ALASKA: Nome youth service project, working with Eskimos, and Norton Sound Project. Three-month summer traveling teaching project in St. Michaels and Stebbins for two

outh of the same sex who will be

ased in house donated by a resident Baha’i.

ALBANIA: “...one or more devoted and capable youths...[to be] accompanied by an Albanian youth...who could be in charge of driving a van and directing the Mobile Institute. ...” Driving experience important.

AUSTRALIA: Seven different arenas of service: children’s classes, firesides and hospitality, House of Worship guiding, gardening, janitorial and National Baha’i Office, fe 3-4 youth from anywhere in the world. Accommodations on House of Worship property provided.

BOTSWANA: Three arenas of service: full-time trainer for teachers of children’s classes, National Baha’{ Office assistant with command of English and computers, Baha'i properties mainentance assistant with experience in plumbing, electrical work and building repair.

FRANCE: The Office of Public Information of the Baha’{ International Community in Paris needs a bilingual (French/English) assistant for duties such as office administration and sec retarial work, follow-up on publications, and participation in public relations projects.

THE GAMBIA: Two arenas of service: assist with the brand new urban pre-school opening in September or with a Rural Education Center at the Bwiam Regional Baha‘{ Center.

HONDURAS: volunteers with experience in printing needed to help develop a social and economic development project focused on the production of Baha’ literature in La Ceiba. At Project Bayan youth are needed who have studied Spanish for at least two years and can stay for 6-12 months, or medical students who have completed their first two years of Medical School for four-month periods (one at a time).

INDIA: New Era Development Institute, “an exiting place to work [which] offers a unique opportunity to learn about social and economic development in a Baha’{ context” is looking for “one or two deepened Baha'is who enjoy working closely with other youth to come for anywhere from four months to a year, preferably arriving in June.”

SWITZERLAND: A youth is needed to work 3 days/week with the National Baha’f Secretariat, 1/2 day car ing for Hazira, and 1 1/2 days lan guage study and/or traveling teach ing. English and/or French language,

knowledge of word processing and

ability to work independently rejuired.

VENEZUELA: Three “entry by troops projects” and an ongoing vor of service program supported by local youth, incorporating proclamation, teaching, consolidation, theater, music and other aspects are in need of 6-10 youth at a time for at least six months service. Knowledge of Spanish a must. Low living costs.

If you can arise to meet one of these needs and you have not served as an international traveling teacher or pioneer within the last two years, please contact your local Spiritual Assembly to initiate the process. Otherwise, contact the Office of Pioneering directly for more information.

The Office of Pioneering will help

‘ou to do as the Universal House of Justice advises: “Through prayer and consultation, and after considering his own experience, inclinations and possibilities, he can choose his goal area and, confidently relying on the confirming power of Baha’u’llah, set out to serve the Cause of his Lord. ...”

House of Justice announces unique opportunity for service in Vietnam

On November 1, 1994 the Universal House of Justice announced a unique opportunity in Vietnam. “...the Government of Vietnam and the representative of the Baha’i International Community have signed a Memorandum of Understanding which provides for the Baha’is to supply Vietnam with 50 teachers of English for five years. Although our contract with the Government of Vietnam is for five years, volunteers need serve only one, to be replaced with new volunteers as necessary. ... These teachers will be under the direction of the Government and will be sent to various localities throughout the country. The Government of Vietnam will provide accommodations and some small assistance, such as a bicycle for each.”

This opportunity has been given the highest priority at this time. We encourage adults and youth to participate. “The House of Justice anticipates that many youth could be available for a year to undertake this service. Volunteers need not be highly qualified as teachers of English; an educated person with an aptitude for penching and whose mother tongue is Englisl may be quite acceptable, assisted ideally by a short course on teaching English as a second language.” We urge i to act without hesitation or delay.

t us know whether you are able to rise to this exciting challenge. Contact the Office of Pioneering, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. Tel: (708) 733-3508 Fax: (708) 733-3509 Email:

[Page 5]‘Azamat B.E. 152 © May 17, 1995

5

REE YEAR PLAN

cr

TOTAL ENROLLMENTS

NA Did Pla esstsssssoslaeante SO Year to date ........104000+. 2048

THE FUND

(As of March 31, 1995)

YTD Goal YTD Actual National Baha’{ Fund $13,291,667 $8,969,811 International Baha’{ Fund $506,785, Are Projects Fund $5,529,622 Continental Baha’{ Fund $199,724 Other Earmarked $342,627 Subtotal/Int’l Funds $9,625,000 $6,578,758

Total/All Funds $22,916,667 $15,548,569

1993-94 1994-95 National Baha’{ Fund $9,330,46: $8,969,811 International Baha’{ Fund $726,443 $506,785 Are Projects Fund $3,265,787 $5,529,622 Continental Baha’{ Fund $265,187 $199,724 Other Earmarked $339,647 $342,627 Subtotal/Int’] Funds $4,597,064 $6,578,758

Total/All Funds $13,927,525 $15,548,569

National Baha’i Fund

$8,969,811

Where we need to be

$13,291,667

All International Funds $6,578,758

$9,625,000

Arc Projects Fund

$5,529,622

$3,265,787

International Baha’i Fund $506,785

Continental Baha’ Fund $265,187

|

Army of Light Projects

Army of Light anticipated project sites

Alabama: Birmingham, Selma

Arizona: Phoenix, Mesa, Native American Baha’ Institute

Arkansas: Fort Smith, Pine Bluff

California: Sacramento, Stockton, U.N. 50 activities (San Francisco/Sacramento), Los Angeles, San Leandro, Santa Cruz Connecticut: Torrington

Colorado: Denver area, Arvada, Jefferson glewood

lagdalene Carney Institute Georgia: Atlanta, Marietta

Illinois: Galesburg (Heartland Baha’i School), Joliet, Rockford, Springfield, Lombard, Chicago Indiana: Indianapolis, West Lafayette

Iowa: Iowa City, Ames

Kentucky: Louisville, Winchester, Frankfort, Oldham Co., Lexington, Jefferson Co. LSA Massachusetts: Boston

Maine: Portland and S. Portland together, Augusta

Maryland: Howard County, Prince George’s County North

Michigan: Holland, Detroit, St. Joseph/Benton Harbor, Muskegon, Traverse City, Flint, Macomb County, Michigan State Fair, Grand Rapids, Marquette/Escanaba

Minnesota: Minneapolis, St. Paul

Missouri: Phelps Co., Kansas City

Nebraska: Omaha Reservation

New Hampshire: Seacoast, Concord, Manchester, Exeter

New York: New York City, Amherst, Beacon, White Plains

New Mexico: Las Cruces, Albuquerque, Jemez Pueblo, New Mexico - general

North Carolina: Durham, Glendon, Greensboro, Burlington, Fayetteville

Ohio: Cleveland, Chagrin Falls, Cincinnati Oklahoma: Oklahoma City, Lawton, Seminole County

Oregon: Portland, Woodburn, Siletz Reservation (Lobstock), Milwaukie, Clackemas Co. NW, Beaverton

Pennsylvania: Philadelphia

Rhode Island: Providence

South Carolina: Louis Gregory Institute, Donnelly, Conway, Johnsonville

South Dakota: Custer, Pine Ridge Reservation, Pierre, Standing Rock Reservation, Rapid City, Rosebud Reservation

Tennessee: Nashville, Eastern TN, Jackson, Hendersonville

Texas: Cleburne, Dallas, Houston, Austin, San Antonio, Mexico trip, Victoria

Utah: Salt Lake City

Vermont: Burlington

Virginia: Loudoun Co., Charlottesville, Tidewater area (Williamsburg to Norfolk), Greatfalls, Bonnie Cote (Fairfax County South-BYWS) Washington: Moses Lake, King County, Richland West Virginia: Charleston, Morgantown Wisconsin: Milwaukee, Lac Du Flambeau Wyoming: Cheyenne

Army of Light

1995 YOUTH CONFERENCE

WHEN: Last weekend in December

WHERE: Dallas, Texas

Look for further information in The American Baha’i

[Page 6]Tue American BAHA'I 6

NATIONA’ SEMBLY

Baha’is rush to aid victims of Oklahoma City bombing

By TOM MENNILLO

Science says every action has an equal and opposite reaction.

Oklahoma City Baha’is, other residents and outside volunteers proved the maxim once again when they arose in an outpouring of love and selflessness after the tragic bomb blast that destroyed the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building.

And ina series of extraordinary electronic mail messages, Bahd’is around the world were kept abreast of their efforts and needs.

The postings by Spencer, Oklahoma, Baha’i Cindy Van Kley began only a day after the April 19 explosion.

The first included general reassurances that no Bahd’fs or their family members were known to have been killed or wounded, but noted that nearly everyone had friends or neighbors among the victims.

A shrapnel ‘souvenir’

Alex Resnick and Esperanza Sabet worked two blocks away from the federal building. Although windows were shattered, they emerged safely. “Alex has a souvenir piece of shrapnel that was blown into his car, which he is grateful was not in him,” Ms. Van Kley related.

Ms. Van Kley also told how she had felt and heard the explosion at her home about 15 miles from downtown.

“My first thought as my house and floor shook was that one of the drunks who frequently take out my lawn and flower beds on their way around our corner had finally plowed into our garage. ...I ran outside and...saw dark smoke blowing to the north from downtown, far away, and a strange double-decker light gray mushroom cloud ascending vertically from between the skyscrapers.

“J...burst into tears and started muttering the short prayer for the departed as I went into the house. ...I really felt acrush of death looking at that cloud.”

Her thoughts that day, she related, were that “this is an opportunity for prayer vigils, to listen to people who are stressed and shaken and reassure them that God still is in ultimate control of the world, that He did not do this, nor allow it to happen to innocent children out of spite or cruelty, but that perhaps in the horrible sacrifice of so many lives there is a ransom that will turn hearts around the world back to ‘our Father in Heaven, Who is able to

deliver us from our humiliations.

She also worried about a “backlash against the Middle Eastern residents of Oklahoma in the face of speculation about who the terrorists might be who could do such a thing. I can’t help but regret tremendously in hindsight that we haven't done a better job in educating our predominantly Christian neighbors about the truth of Muhammad’s mission and teachings, so that they would not jump to erroneous assumptions about any evil intent against Christians in the true religion of Islam.”

She concluded, “We have to...set our hearts to the urgent task of more rapidly and effectively gleaning from the teaching field those souls who have truly been prepared to hear the Message, and can benefit from Bahd‘u’llah’s healing Words.”

Next came news that the Spiritual Assembly of Oklahoma City had met to discuss its response to the bombing tragedy.

An effort would be made to take part in the April 23 “interfaith” prayer service that President and Mrs. Clinton and the Rev. Billy Graham would be attending.

The Assembly also decided to “make asignificant contribution” to the disaster relief efforts of the American Red Cross, Ms. Van Kley told her cyberspace readers.

“..thousands of people are temporarily out of work until their office buildings are determined to be safe, and most of those businesses can’t even get in to try to do payroll or pay their bills. So there will be an enormous number of people without paychecks possibly, for weeks or months, and the

ed Cross will be trying to help them on a case-by-case basis. The need for funds will clearly be overwhelming.”

Ms. Van Kley also reported on “our rather bittersweet Ridvan celebration” at the Baha'i Center.

No Middle East connection

“There seemed to be a consensus,” she said, “that God is doing some powerful work on the world, and somehow OKC isat the focal point radiating out. Many of us noticed that people who worked with us who had been jumping to the Middle Eastern terrorist assumption were slapped in the face with their own racism when they saw the composites of the suspects and realized, ‘but they're white.’”

With her succeeding message, on

“The Prosperi

worth.”

‘The Prosperity of Humankind’: corrections

It has been brought to our attention that in preparing the compilation of Humankind” for publication (see The American Baha'i, April 9) some lines were inadvertently dropped from the text in Section IV, paragraph 1, and in Section V, paragraph 8.

In the first instance, the Raseage in question should read: “Universal education will be an indispensable contributor to this process of capacity building, but the effort will succeed only as human affairs are so reorganized as to enable both individuals and groups in every sector of society to acquire knowledge and apply it to the shaping of human affairs.”

The other passage should be corrected to read: “Here again, religion’s challenge is to free itself from the obsessions of the not fatalism; morality has nothing in common with the life-denying puritanism that has so often presumed to speak in its name; and a genuine devotion to duty brings feelings not of self-righteousness but of self We apologize for the errors, and encourage those who are using the compilation as a study guide to make the necessary corrections.

ast: contentment is

April 23, Ms. Van Kley expressed anew the need “not to waste the window of opportunity that has been opened for teaching the principles of the Faith regarding our attitude toward tests, the need for unity, and the spiritual magnification of even the smallest efforts when done in unity.”

To non-Baha’is online, she noted the next day that “we cannot accept contributions to Baha’i Funds from anyone except Baha’fs,” but suggested alternative ways to help.

Many Baha’is offer help

To the Bahd‘f friends, she urged “making a contribution through the OKC Spiritual Assembly to the disaster relief work, in order for the Bahd’is to be able to make a more significant and noticeable lump sum contribution on behalf of all the Baha’fs, in addition to the individual donations of supplies and ‘elbow grease’ already being contributed by the OKC friends.”

The same day, she related stories shared at Baha’i school that morning of the friends who were helping with disaster relief:

“Radiologist Charlie Dunn was on duty at St. Anthony’s Hospital (the one closest to the Federal Building) at the time of the bombing and, with many others, worked through the wee hours of the next morning.

“Nurse Kimiko Collins worked at a triage center and ‘continues to volunteer extra time with victims.

“Firefighters Dan Parker and (Kimiko’s younger brother) Kent Collins have been at the scene the entire time on search and rescue ina dangerously unstable building.

“Nurse Suzette Rattenbury has been working with victims and families in hospice care.

“News photographer Saideh Dana’s TV station in Tulsa sent her to cover the story, and she has been sent into the wreckage for pool footage. She also has been providing on-the-scene ongoing prayers (as, I’m sure, have all the rest).

“Kathy Engels took several of the Bahd’t school classes to purchase and contribute supplies to restock the day care center in the YMCA across the street from the Federal Building that was also heavily damaged by the blast.

“Bight-year-old Edmond Baha’i Amy Hamilton sent a letter with a picture of herself to the search and rescue team, along with a fistful of bandages. Her letter was read during a TV interview by one of the rescue workers, who wept holeing UP: the bandages, saying, ‘Children think Band-aids can fix anything!’

“Flower arrangements from Navid and Flora Ferdowsian’s Saturday night wedding were taken to the waiting room at St. Anthony’s for the families of hospitalized victims.”

It later became known that law student Jubin Dana pitched in to help the Red Cross, despite final exams. And veterinarian George Cooper aided residents of the Regency Tower. (Initial reports on television had him going apartment to apartment to check on pets, but he later said that was erroneous. The building doesn’t allow upets)

An update for those who tuned in to the nationally televised prayer service ho ing, to see Baha’ participation: “The ‘interfaith’ program that had

been initiated by the governor's office was taken over by other entities. ...As it turns out, the only (participation) other than various Christian denominations...was by Rabbi David Packman, who, incidentally, tried to intervene to get us on the program. It was, however, a very moving and positive service.”

On April 25, Ms. Van Kley reported that “I’ve been sharing the love and prayers and greetings from all over the world with the area Baha’f friends. I’ll print out and post your messages on the bulletin board at the OKC Baha’f Center. It’s such a comfort to know so many prayers are being directed our way. The Bahd’fs of the metro OKC area have expressed the warmth of their gratitude at hearing the love of the rest of the friends. We need your emotional ae ort.”

By May 2, life was beginning to get back to normal. “Today, a Baha’i Holy Day, we went to the park for a picnic and to the mall in Midwest City,” she wrote.

But there were constant reminders of the tragedy.

“Yesterday morning while I was working at a friend’s shop, a middleaged black woman came in, obviously dressed in funeral attire, to make some copies,” Ms. Van Kley related.

“She said she’d just buried her cousin and had another funeral for the child of a friend in the afternoon. I was thinking she looked so blank, maybe too far past grief. She asked to use the phone and called her children to warn them that their father was leavin, town after the funeral and woul likely be coming by to try to abduct them since he knew she had another funeral, so go to the neighbor’s house.

‘I know you need a hug’

“I couldn’t help overhearing, of course, and I asked if that was for real, and she said, ‘Yes, but I can’t even deal with it right now, I can’t even be mad at him.’ I was stunned by the impossibility of handling any more stress in this poor woman’s life, and I impulsively came out from behind the counter and told her, ‘Sweetheart, Ijust know you need a hug!’

“She melted in my arms and dissolved into tears. She must have been trying so hard to hold it together for too long. Then after a minute she said simply, ‘Ican make it now, thanks,’ and rushed to her next errand or maybe the funeral. I keep thinking there’s a city full of people going through the motions, just trying to get through all this, but it just keeps coming in waves, grief upon grief.”

The next day came news that “an interfaith organization was formed to make more effective use of the spiritual resources of the Oklahoma City community to support its citizens’ recovery from the recent bombing disaster and to prevent future violence.”

Ms. Van Kley noted, “The Baha’is were asked to participate, and when it ‘was decided to appoint a board of directors of the interfaith organization, a Baha’i was the first appointment to the board. At the next meeting, the Bahd’f was elected chairman of the board of directors, and the following mission statement was drafted:

See BOMBING page 34

[Page 7]“AzamAt B.E. 152 » May 17, 1995 L

OD

iinl mala

Dr. Sarah Martin Pereira, who was a member of the Continental Board of Counselors for the Americas from 1973-85, died April 5 in Matthews, North Carolina.

Dr. Pereira was elected the U.S. National Spiritual Assembly in 1960 and served until her appointment as a Counselor. She was also among the first Auxiliary Board members appointed by the Hands of the Cause of God in the western hemisphere, serving in that capacity from 1954-64.

Dr. Pereira served on the Spiritual Assembly of Washington, D.C., from 1962-71; on the Spiritual Assembly of Silver Spring, Maryland, 1971-73; and on the Spiritual Assembly of Charlotte, North Carolina, where she was corresponding secretary into her 80s.

She was a member of many local and national Bahd’f committees including the Interracial Service Committee, a predecessor of the National Race Unity Committee, and served asa delegate to the annual National Convention several times from Washington, D.C., Maryland and North Carolina.

She will be remembered throughout the Americas as an outstandin; speaker in English, French, Spanis! and Portuguese at many conferences and other events.

Dr. Pereira’s professional and academic careers were also distinpute A professor of Romance languages, she held teaching and administrative positions at several universities, having begun her

teaching career at Shaw University in Raleigh, North Carolina, the city of her mother’s birth.

She also served as a professor at West Virginia State University, Tennessee A&I University, the District of Columbia Teachers College, the University of the District of Columbia and, after her retirement to Charlotte, at that city’s Johnson C. Smith University.

Additionally, she served as acting head of the Division of Humanities at West Virginia State College, as chairman of the Division of Foreign Languages and, later, as acting associate academic dean at the District of Columbia Teachers College, and as acting academic dean and chief executive officer at the.Georgia and Harvard campus of the University-of the District of Columbia.

At Johnson C. Smith she was both a professor and creator and director of the university’s Honors Program.

Following in the footsteps of her father, who was one of only five AfricanAmericans admitted into the Phi Beta Kappa honor society in the 19th century, Dr. Pereira also received that academic distinction. She received her A.B. degree from Ohio State University, her M.A. from Case Western Reserve University, and her Ph.D from Ohio State University.

Her parents, Alexander H. Martin, a lawyer in Cleveland, Ohio, for 64 years, and Mary Brown Martin, the first African-American elected to Cleveland’s Board of Education, became Bahd’is in 1913 after hearing a lecture by Louis G. Gregory.

The Martins’ four children all be

Dr. Sarah Pereira, educator, former Counselor, dies

came Baha ’fs, as did Dr. Pereira’s son, Dr. Carlos Pereira, who survives her. A photograph of this distinguished African-American family was hung by the Guardian in the Mansion at Bahji as an indication of a significant milestone in the progress of the Faith.

On learning of her passing, the Universal House of Justice cabled:

Deplore irreparable loss stalwart promoter, vibrant teacher Cause God Sarah Martin Pereira. Radiant faith, indomitable spirit, cheerful disposition characterized her manifold outstanding Bahd'f services for over six decades including homefront pioneering and membership first Auxiliary Board western hemisphere, National Spiritual Assembly United States, Continental Board Counselors Americas. Her achievements have left traces for generations to come. Confident her joyful reunion company her distinguished forebears and siblings Abha Kingdom. Praying Holy Threshold progress her soul divine worlds.

Advise hold memorial services her

honor Mother Temple and throughout country.

The Universal House of Justice

April 6, 1995

The U.S. National Spiritual Assembly remembered Dr. Pereira with these words:

With saddened hearts we inform you of the passing early this morning in North Carolina of Dr. Sarah Martin Pereira. Her commitment to the Blessed Beauty for more than

Dr. Sarah Martin Pereira

three-quarters of a century included membership on the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United States from 1961 until 1973 when she was appointed by the Universal House of Justice to the Continental Board of Counselors.

Dr. Pereira's unwavering devotion to the Cause of God can inspire every believer to greater service and is her legacy to each of us. Our prayers join yours that the soul of our beloved Sarah will find swift

reunion with its Creator. National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United States April 5, 1995

Deland, FL, Baha'is sponsor high school speech contest to honor Lionel Gonzalez

Seeking a way to honor Lionel Gonzalez, a community member who died last year, the Baha'is of Deland, Florida, asked the local public library to cosponsor the Lionel Gonzalez “Speak

|p for Peace” speech contest for students.

Library officials accepted the offer, printed notices and distributed them to schools while the Bah4'fs supplied prizes and trophies for first-, secondand third-place winners and certificates of participation for everyone who entered the contest.

Seventy-nine middle school and two high school students submitted speeches on the topic “Human Rights:

Key to World Peace.”

Teams of mostly non-Baha'i judges chose eight middle school finalists. With the two high schoolers, the finalists delivered their speeches at the library, and winners were chosen.

The event offered many teachin opportunities as library personnel, teachers, students, judges and others were made aware of the Faith, which was also mentioned by Mrs. Gonzalez as she awarded the prizes.

The ceremony was held in close proximity to United Nations Human Rights Day, an appropriate tribute to Mr. Gonzalez who was a retired UN economist.

Fifth Arjmand Scripture Studies Colloquium focuses on study of Baha’u’llah’s Most Holy Book, Kitab-iiAgdas

The fifth Scripture Studies Colloquium, co-sponsored by the Haj Mehdi Arjmand Memorial Fund and the Institute for Baha’i Studies, was held March 31-April 2 at the Baha’i National Center in Wilmette, Illinois.

It was the second colloquium devoted to studies related to the Kitdb-iAgdas, with the first having been held in November 1994 at the DePoort Baha’i Conference Center in the Netherlands.

Sixty-five Baha'is attended the most recent colloquium at which nine papers were presented on various topics related to the Aqdas.

At Friday evening's opening session Dr. Robert Stockman explained that the Institute for Baha’{ Studies is an agency of the National Spiritual Assembly dedicated to sponsoring rigorous, academic-quality scholarship on the Faith.

Tandis Arjmand, granddaughter of Haj Mehdi Arjmand, who was a prominent Baha’ teacher and scholar in Iran, quoted from tablets written by ‘Abdu‘l-Bahaé that honored the achievements of her illustrious forebear, and Dr. Iraj Ayman presented a brief report on the goals and activities of the H.M. Arjmand Memorial Fund, explaining that its purposes include

promoting deeper and more systematic studies of the Holy Writings; providing an opportunity for the interaction among various views and understandings of the Faith in an atmosphere of tolerance and loving unity; and encouraging those who are interested in scholarly studies to enter the field of scholarship and to benefit from the dialogues taking place.

Saturday morning’s plenary presentation on “The Model of Penology i the Kitdb-i-Aqdas” was delivered on video tape by Dr. John Hatcher, who afterward was connected by speakerphone to answer questions from the audience.

Other presentations were:

¢ “Some Considerations Relating to the Inheritance Laws of the Kitab-iAqdas” by Sen McGlinn.

“Obedience to Divine Law: Evolution of the Individual’s Perception” by

Azadeh and Nabil Fares.

A booklet containing the abstracts of the colloquium is available for $3 from the Research Office, Baha’{ National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (please make check payable to “Baha'i Services Fund”).

Similar booklets are available for $3 apiece from the second and fourth Scripture Studies Colloquia, the Baha’i History Conference, and the Conference on Women in Baha’i Perspective. (If more than one booklet is ordered, the subsequent ones are $2.50 each.)

The next Scripture Studies Colloquium in Wilmette will be held March 29-31, 1996.

[Page 8]

NA

THe AmeriCAN BAHA'I 8

Cities across U.S. plan to commemorate UN’s 50th anniversary

The United Nations is observing this year the 50th anniversary of its founding, and cities across the country are planning commemorative activities throughout the year.

The National Spiritual Assembly has called on the U.S. Baha’i community to take part in celebrating this historic occasion. Baha'i communities may either plan their own events to which they can invite the public, or they may choose to take part in activities that are planned by others.

While these celebrations may take place at any time during 1995, communities are encouraged to choose one of the special UN days (for example, UN Day, October 24; Human Rights Day, December 10).

To help with UN-50 observances, the Baha’i International Community is developing a large exhibit depicting the relationship between the Baha’i community and the UN. A table-top version of the dis ( Ks

Anyone planning to attend 4th Women’s Conference in Beijing, China, asked to contact U.S. UN Office

The registration deadline for the fourth World Conference on Women NGO Forum was April 30. Any members of the U.S. Baha’i community who have registered and are planning to attend the Forum in Beijing, China, are asked to send copies of their registration forms to the National Spiritual Assembly’s United Nations Office.

If you have already mailed your forms to the NGO Forum Office and did not retain a copy, we ask that you please contact our office by post or email. Our mailing address is:

Baha'is of the United States

United Nations Office

866 United Nations Plaza

Suite 120

New York, NY 10017-1811

Fax 212-756-3566; e-mail usun ngo forum on women beijing ‘95

nyc@bic.org

It is extremely important that we have as accurate a listing of Bahd’is attending the Forum as possible. We would like to keep abreast of any changes or new developments. There may also be an opportunity for Baha'is to get together in Beijing.

At meeting in Merced, California

Baha’is gather to share teaching experiences among S.E. Asians

Feelings of joy and hopefulness were intermingled March 4 as Baha'is gathered in Merced, California, to share their experiences and exchange information about teaching Southeast Asians in Northern California.

Among those taking part were Puran Stevens, coordinator of the U.S. Baha'i Refugee Office; Ken Bowers, secretary of the National Teaching Committee; Auxiliary Board members Marsha Gilpatrick and Paul Khavari, members of the Northern California State Teaching Committee, Hmong clan leaders, representatives of the Army of Light

and the Ruhi Institute in Colombia, and Southeast Asians who are active teachers.

Mrs. Stevens shared her insight into the history of Southeast Asian teaching and consolidation in the U.S., stressing the importance of lea: g about the various cultures especially when contacting leaders of Southeast Asian communities who are not accustomed to being approached by young people.

The USBRO, she said, has been in charge of all aspects of Southeast Asian teaching in this country, and its materials have been widely used in other countries with Southeast Asian popu

munities.

an order,

duce.

play will be available for use by local Baha’{ com The exhibit is three feet high by six feet wide (six panels, accordion fold). The price is $110 (to save money on additional correspondence, please include a check payable to Bahd’is of the United States United Nations Office at the time you place your order).

To order, write to: Baha’is of the United States, United Nations Office, 866 United Nations Plaza, Suite 120, New York, NY 10017-1811 (phone 212-7563500; fax 212-756-3566; e-mail

Note: These displays are flexible and may be used at campuses, fairs, conferences and a variety of other venues. If your community is interested in placing lease contact the U.S./UN office at the above address as soon as possible so we can determine the number of exhibits we will need to pro Last October, a delegation of 59 Hmong leaders from the U.S. was among those invited to visit China for the International Hmong Culture Symposium. The head of the U.S. delegation and nine other members were Baha'is. After

the symposium they traveled to 25 cities in five Chinese provinces.

lations.

The USBRO, said Mrs. Stevens, coordinates, counsels and provides materials, including a quarterly newsletter, for the network of Southeast Asian Baha'i volunteers (Helpers) who offer their help in this important area of service to the Cause.

Mr. Bowers assured everyone that targeting receptive populations does not exclude anyone but instead attracts others to the Cause.

Close collaboration between the Auxiliary Board and Teaching Committees, he said, will assure great success in the teaching work.

Mr. Khavari agreed, adding that we

Teaching S.E. Asians an extremely rewarding experience

A dedicated Baha'i teacher concentrating on the consolidation and integration of Southeast Asian Baha’is recently visited the homes of Southeast Asian declarants in a city in northern California.

One one occasion, the teacher was taken aback when a Southeast Asian

Conference canceled

The Baha‘i History Conference which was scheduled to be held June 16-18 at the Bahd’i National Center in Wilmette has been canceled.

Baha’i asked in a sincere manner, “How do I make payments to my Faith?”

At another time a Southeast Asian Baha‘i asked, “How can I know who to vote for if there is no campaigning in the Baha’{ Faith?”

The teacher replied that Baha’is pray to Baha’u’ll4h and ask Him for guidance before voting for the most worthy members of the community.

His pure-hearted listener began immediately to recite aloud a Baha'i prayer in his own language, after which he filled out the ballot.

These are the kinds of experiences

the friends have when they arise to teach, integrate and consolidate among the Southeast Asians who have been forced by circumstances beyond their control to flee their homelands and establish new homes in the U.S.

These new believers need our love and our help and the awareness that we are all part of one spiritual family.

If you are interested in helping to integrate Southeast Asian Baha’fs into the U.S. Baha'i community, please contact the U.S. Baha’f Refugee Office, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 708-733-3522; fax 708-7333545).

should assess the teaching work by considering where we are and where our opportun lie.

Representatives from areas with long-term involvement in Southeast Asian teaching, such as Porterville, Fresno, Merced, Modesto, Sacramento and Stockton, brought the group up to date concerning activities in their communities.

Members of the Northern California State Teaching Committee said they are in touch with about 600 youth in the area who have a strong desire to serve the Faith. The youth have an email network that is gaining momentum and helps them feel connected although they are geographically separated.

After a short break, everyone took part in a two-hour consultation to consider these questions among others: (1) what opportunities, approaches and resources are relevant to large-scale growth, and (2) what form would a sustained and comprehensive effort for large-scale growth take?

The group then adjourned to a restaurant to break the fast, returning later to meet with about 30 Hmong and American youth.

It was felt by many who attended that meetings of this kind are a key to the sort of intercommunity collaboration needed to bring about large-scale expansion of the Cause.—Jennifer Muratore

[Page 9]

Paris Talks Addresses by ‘Abdu’'l-Baha "Abdu'l-Baha HC $13.95 (PTH), SC $5.00 (PTS) A new edition of the popular collection of talks given by ‘Abdu’l-Bahd while visiting Paris in 1911. Offers guidance for applying spiritual principles to everyday life and explains major Baha’f teachings such as the oneness of humankind, the need to abolish prejudice, the harmony of science and religion, and the equality of the sexes. Designed for easier reading, this illustrated edition includes photos of places where ‘Abdu’lBaha spoke. Includes a comprehensive index and paragraph numbering, making it easy to locate specific themes and references. A good source of quotable quotes for media use, and an excellent tool for teaching and deepening. 7-1/2" x 5", 224 pp., table of contents, Introduction, index Baha'i Publishing Trust, United Kingdom

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The long-awaited sequel to The Bahd'f Faith in America: Origins, 1892-1900, Volume 1. Charts the North American Bahd'f community's early efforts to achieve consolidation, its expansion to the West and South, the establishment of its first national project (to build a House of Worship in Chicago), and its emergence as one of the world's key Bahd'f communities on the eve of “Abdu'l-Baha's vi shores. Though there was no in leader and no national adi structure, the Chicago Bah4'f community remained the hub of Bahd'f activity on the continent. The detailed and meticu- fj lously preserved correspondence of Thornton Chase, chairman of the Chicago House of Spirituality, is the principle source of information about the period. The book highlights the loving leadership of Abdu'l-Bahé, Who, through several thousand epistles, explained to Westerners the Bahd'f teachings, answered questions, settled disputes, calmed the angry, and consoled the grieving. Includes newly authorized translations of of His Tablets.

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[Page 12]ACTIVITIES

12

Tue American BAHA'I

| Pl from the pages of VS ©O ni by Gina Yezzi and Linda Fall

Loving everybody is not easy! What if someone hurts your feelings? What if someone teases you or makes unkind remarks? What if someone breaks a Baha‘i law? Some people are hard to love. Still we know it is important to try. We need a plan.

It is easier to love someone when we remember their best qualities.

1 write the

name of someone

who is not easy for you to love.

If there is no one,

congratulations!

2 Lista good qualities

of that person. #3 Reread the

verse at the top of this page and meditate.

Repeat the Choose a 5

ret plan with the person.

4 Now list3

good qualities that

Qualities gentle obedient

i honest courteous helpful clean you wish to have. have finished creative patient joyful artistic

6 loyal kind friendly modest

ue strong thankful just —_reverent loving generous

thoughtful

Finally, plana good deed to do this week for the person you are trying to love. When we do as God wants, we feel good about ourselves and good about others.

It is easier to love others when we remember our own weaknesses.

Changing Hate to Love

Change HATE into LOVE in five steps.

Fill in the blanks. You many change only one letter with each step.

hurts everyone. We all Ly Ly Cy Ly special talents that can help mankind.

God LJ im Ly (us each different talents to share. Different is wonderful! | Ly LI} [¥others a chance. When | love everyone, I Ly | Ly [ety erejudice-free.

This is the power of a thought of L) fa Can you change RUDE to NICE?

It never helps to be Ly | Ly Ly. | Ly Ly (Dihrough space.

I can’t enjoy a bowl of LI y im white my brother goes hungry. We add to the love in the world by being LJ | Ly LI.

We are all sharing the same

Reprinted from Brilliant Star, The First Prejudice-Free Generation, March-April 1995

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[Page 13]TEACHING

“AzamAt B.E. 152 ¢ May 17, 1995

13

‘Fast’ phase propels S.C. teaching forward

The “Fast teaching” phase of the Louis G. Gregory/Magdalene Carney Teaching Initiative in South Carolina culminated in a spectacular Naw-Ruz party attended by more than 250 people.

Fruits of the 19 days of teaching were evident at the event. More non-Bahd’fs and newly enrolled believers attended than veteran Baha'is.

In fact, many souls who had enrolled 20 years ago but lost contact with the Baha’fs were present and excited to see the growth of the Faith. They are eager to now play their part in the development of Baha’f communities.

Two young men—one a recent college graduate, the other just finishing a tour in the U.S. Army—shared stories of having come to the Louis G. Gregory Baha’i Institute for children’s classes. One of them stated: “You all just don’t know what coming here as children did for our lives. [have never forgotten it”

Many parents and relatives expressed their joy at what the Faith meant to their children and promised to be more involved themselves.

The 19 days of Fast teaching drew many teachers—easily exceeding the goal set of 19. The majority were from

uth Carolina, but some arrived from North Carolina, two from Connecticut, and one youth from Japan.

The presence of the Supreme Concourse was felt throughout the Fast. Prayers were offered daily at the Baha’f National Center, in the office of Counselor Wilma Ellis, and in vigils around South Carolina. The teachers themselves offered up 500 “remover of difficulties” each night.

During the 19 days, 40 souls accepted their Lord, bringing the total for

the initiative to 117. In addition, more than a hundred believers who accepted the Faith two decades ago were revisited. Many relatives of these early believers were among those who embraced the Cause.

Public officials and religious leaders also were contacted. A positive change in the response of the white community was obvious. The Louis G. Gregory Baha’ Youth Workshop per formed a “unity dance” in downtown

Hemingway (historically Ku Klux Klan country) at an annual festival, and two white youth enrolled in the Faith.

The impact of 10 years of broadcasting by WLGI Radio Baha’i opened doors in every corner. Everyone had heard the station, and they had only positive feedback for its programs and

igh standards.

Souls were thirsty to hear what the Baha’i community could do to help them improve their lives, knowing that unity is the core of the solution.

Now the initiative is ready to move into another phase: spreading the healing message of “race unity” throughout the state.

°

As we move into the final year of the Three Year Plan, the story of one of the local friends reminds us of the joy of service in this day.

A seeker asked this friend during a teaching visit how she could be so happy knowing that she has cancer. This maid-servants’s response was, “Ym in a win-win situation. If I die, I'll go to the Abha Kingdom and be with my Lord. If I live through this treatment, I can serve and teach this Baha’i Faith.”

The services of the many friends—

After hitting wall in Mountain State Seeker finds what he’s been seeking

Some quick thinking has one seeker back on his spiritual journey.

The self-professed “unofficial homefront pioneer” recently moved from Dallas, Texas, where he had attended firesides in the home of Frouzan and Karen Afsahi, to Huntington, West Virginia.

But when he tried to find Baha’is in the Mountain State, the man ran intoa brick wall. Until, that is, he started asking people if they knew of any Persians in Huntington.

Luckily, he was led to Bahiyyah Nezhad, a Baha’f who is director open culation for the library at Marshall University, where the seeker teaches.

In the space of three days, the seeker had 15 new friends in three states!

Mrs. Nezhad introduced him first to her brother, Cyrus Mali, and his wife, Behnaz, at a fireside in their Charleston, West Virginia, home. There, they

Correction

In The American Bahdt, March 2 (p. 6), the telephone number for Trevor Williams, an Army of Light coordinator for Illinois, Wisconsin and Mic! gan (Upper) was listed incorrectly. The correct phone number is 217-5862844.

met several people including new Charleston residents Zia and Minu Sabet and former Texans Howard and Lorraine Menking, who recently moved to Nitro, West Virginia,.

Then Mrs. Nezhad took the seeker to Ashland, Kentucky. His new friends there, whom he met over dinner, are former pioneers (to Guam) Paul and Stacy Coverstone and their two daughters.

After this whirlwind tour, the seeker wrote to the Afsahis about his new connections to the Faith:

“Ino longer feel alone. Iam back on the seeker’s path and moving again toward the Light.

“T continue to miss you all very much and continue to mourn my separation from you. But now, after the happiness of the past three days, I have begun to find that my relationship to you, in the Faith, is renewed and strengthened as Icontinue to seek and find new friends in the larger Baha’i family.

“But none of this would have happened had it not been for the love and teaching that you [in the Afsahis’ firesides] first offered me. The lessons I have learned from you, my teachers, continue to instruct me and now are reinforced by the new teachers and friends I am finding.”

field teaching, support services,

prayers, and deputization—are like the candle that yields up its life dro by drop, as it gives light to the world.

Above: New believers gather around a table at the Louis Gregory Baha'i Institute in Hemingway, South Carolina, to sign their declaration cards. Left: One of the happy new declarants is pictured with Eric Dozier, director of the Louis Gregory Institute’s Gospel Choir. More than 40 people embraced the Cause of God during the Fast period in March, bringing the total to 117 in the ongoing Magdalene M. Carney Teaching Campaign.

Baha'i youth urged to turn their attention to attending, teaching at minority colleges

Since its inception, the Baha'i Youth Service Corps has had a significant impact on the progress of teaching work.

There remain, however, significant areas of service and teaching in which Bahd'f Youth Service Corps volunteers have yet to be sufficiently engaged. One such area is attendance at minority colleges.

Many young Baha'is have expressed an interest in teaching American Indians on Reservations in this country. One way to prepare for this kind of service is to enroll in a tribal community college, most of which—there are about 30 in the U.S.—are on Indian Reservations.

By dedicating a year or so to attending a tribal community college, young Baha'is can study Indian languages, traditions and arts while making lifelong friends with indigenous people.

The environment at a tribal community college is conducive to applying Baha'i teachings to the interests of students and faculty.

Tribal colleges embrace broad goals plea of educational institutions in the U.S., defined within a curriculum that aims to preserve culture while helping students adjust to society. Courses that support these goals also

consider the unique perspective, cultural understandings and values of the population being served.

Programs that focus on spiritual empowerment include studies that establish a foundation for learning such as courses in native languages, native values and the arts.

Programs that focus on adjusting to society include vocational training, business, health services and education. They build on the culturally appropriate foundation established by the native studies classes.

Baha'i youth who dedicate themselves to studying native languages and arts are preparing themselves to contribute to an ever-advancing civilization while learning how Baha'i teachings relate to the values of indigenous cultures.

When young believers commit a part of their life to learning about another culture, humanity gains more mature and perceptive servants.

The American Indian Higher Education Consortium includes tribal community colleges and Indian universities in 12 states. For more information about tribal colleges, please contact Ada James at the National Teaching Committee Office, 708-733-3493.

[Page 14]diy lo) te

ert Reuse

the Cannon Rotunda.

At the reception, the National Spiritual Assembly presented the Baha’{ Humanitarian Award to Reps. Ben Gilman of New York and Lee Hamilton of Indiana.

The exhibit, which documented America’s and other nations’ responses to Iran’s repression of the Baha’i community, was sponsored by earlier recipients of the Baha’f Humanitarian Award, Reps. John Edward Porter of Illinois and Tom Lantos of California, who are co-chairmen of the Congressional Human Rights Caucus.

The exhibit included eight large panels, each 12 by 18 feet, set between 18 Corinthian marble columns that frame the circular rotunda. Rep. Porter asked the National Assembly to display the exhibit for an additional week. A security guard at the rotunda remarked that it was the most beautifully presented exhibit she had seen in her 19 years there.

In the summer of 1994, during a visit to Washington by the National Spiritual Assembly’s secretary for external affairs, Rep. Lantos’ wife, Annette Lantos, suggested to him that the Baha’fs create an exhibit that would tell the story of the persecutions in Iran and explain the teachings of the Faith.

The exhibit, which took more than two months to produce, was created by a group whose members included staff from the Office of External Affairs in Washington and New York; Marjorie Sonnenfeldt, the National Assembly’s public relations consultant; and a graphic designer, Robert Reddy, from Cedarburg, Wisconsin.

At the reception, Firuz Kazemzadeh, the secretary for external affairs, presented the Humanitarian Awar behalf of the National Spiritual Assembly to Reps. Gilman and Hamilton, the chairman and ranking member, respectively, of the House International Relations Committee, for their commitment to human rights and their efforts in support of the Iranian Bahd’fs.

In addition to the members of Congress, guests included officials from the State Department and Voice of America. Many of the guests were representatives of non-governmental organizations who work with the National Assembly’s staff on the status of women, ratification of UN human rights treaties, sustainable development, UN reform, and human rights.

Baha'i guests at the EeerpHOn included Counselor Wilma Ellis; Dr. Elsie Austin, a Trustee of Huqtiqu’ll4h; and Prof. Soheil Bushrui, who holds the Baha’f Chair for World Peace at the University of Maryland.

After receiving the Humanitarian Award and a copy of The Baha'i World: 1983-86, which chronicles the worst years of the persecutions in Iran since 1979, Rep. Gilman said, “It is truly a sad irony that since its founding the Baha‘i religion, which itself poses no threat to secular authority anywhere, has been singled out for such harsh repression in Iran and other parts of the Middle East.

“Isalute those who have maintained their faith in the face of repression and who have too often paid the supreme price for their belief.

“The Baha'i community,” he continued, “has been able to turn the brutality and intolerance they have suffered and continue to suffer at the hands of the Mullah regime in Iran to some good.

“Tam proud to point out that the Baha’is of this country and others have united not only on behalf of their own cause, but on behalf of all the oppressed in Tran.”

After receiving his award, Rep. Hamilton said of the Bahd’fs, “Your continued leadership to fight to end human rights abuses in Iran and your efforts for world peace are an inspiration to me. You do me great honor by giving me this award, but really it is who must honor you.

“Our work has only begun,” Rep. Hamilton added. “We must continue to work together to bring public and diplomatic pressure on Iran. The more than 100,000 American Baha’fs, who live in every state of the Union, have acritical role to play—as do we in Congress, and the President.”

“There have been at times some improvements [in the treatment of

Baha'is in Iran],” Rep. Porter noted, “but this has to be a very iueh priority in our human rights agenda, indeed in our national agenda, to point out to everyone what is happening in Iran to the Baha’{ minority.

“We talk in our news media about the dangers of terrorism emanating from Iran,” he said. “We talk about the dangers of their securing nuclear technology that could lead to the development of nuclear weapons that they might use against the world.

“We ought to also have in every press report, so people in this countr and around the wera can understand, that this is a society that abuses one of its most prominent minorities, that is

twined. The panel topics were:

Building unity in diversity

Firuz Kazemzadeh, National Spiritual Assembly secretary for external affairs, views the exhibit with public relations adviser Marjorie H. Sonnenfeldt of Fleishman-Hillard Inc.

Display brings Baha’i story to life

The colorful display mounted by the National Spiritual Assembly in the Cannon Rotunda convincingly brought to life for viewers the stories of a religious community and this country whose ideals and destiny are inter

The Baha’ Faith: born amidst persecution

Systematic destruction of a religious community
The Congress champions religious liberty

° The many voices of a nation respond

Anticipating peace among nations
Religious freedom: a sacred trust of civilization

THe AMERICAN BAHA'I

intolerant of the beliefs of others.”

Judge James F. Nelson, chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly, said, “Fifteen years ago the American Bahda’is...came to Congress in anguish and in hope” because the government of Iran “had initiated a deliberate and systematic campaign calculated to exterminate the Baha’f community.

“Our anguish could not be allayed,” he said, “for we had already lost good friends who we knew and loved as our co-religionists. But our hopes ran high...as we came to these halls where the voices of the American people were heard and from which the will of the American people was manifested into the world.

“And our hopes were soon and well rewarded,” Judge Nelson noted. “Hearings were held, facts were found, great bi-partisan support was mustered, and six concurrent resolutions demanding an end to the persecution in Iran and the emancipation of the Baha’i community there were passed.”

As a result, he said in gratitude, “Tran’s largest minority community has been, to the best of our current will, protected from untold disaster.”

In his closing remarks, Robert C. Henderson, secretary-general of the National Spiritual Assembly, vowed that the Baha'is will continue to speak out with others for human rights.

“We Baha'is,” he said, “are dedicated to being your partners in the noble enterprise of establishing and expanding international human rights standards, particularly as we peiely pursue the ratification and implementation of the United Nations human rights treaties.

“We are committed to working with you shoulder to shoulder on such critical issues as human rights, the status of women and sustainable development because, as Bahd’is, we believe that these issues represent both the highest expression of American ideals and are fundamental articles of our Faith.”

The following day, the Voice of America broadcast excerpts of the proceedings to Iran. The VOA had recorded the entire event for use in a program on religion that is broadcast worldwide in English.

On May 6, TheWashington Post published an article on and photograph of the exhibit.

[Page 15]PAIN REPORTS

“AzamAt B.E. 152 ¢ Mav 17,1995 = 15

The Annual Report of the National Spiritual Assembly

Introduction

A little over a year ago, the National Spiritual Assembly requested a meeting with the Universal House of Justice to present concerns about several aspects halle growth, development and function of the American ae community. In one of its responses to the National Assembly, the letter dated May 19, 1994, the Universal House of Justice gave instructions on the Assembly's reports to the delegates to the National Convention: “Do as Shoghi Effendi advised you: ‘Banishing every vestige of secrecy, of undue reticence, of dictatorial aloofness, their midst, they [the National Spiritual Assembly] should radiantly and abundantly unfold to the eyes of the delegates, by whom they are elected, their plans, their hopes, and their cares. They should familiarize the delegates with the various matters that will have to be considered in the current year, and calmly and conscientiously study and weigh the opinions and judgment of the delegates.”” The report which follows summarizes the hopes, cares and plans of the National Assembly and presents comments on other topics including the external affairs work and the National Fund.

Hopes Hope v. 1. To wish for something with expectation of its fulfillment.

Individual spiritual growth

The transformation of the human soul is the primary purpose of the Baha’i Faith. A complete change of individual spirit, character and patterns of thought and behavior is essential to establishing unity and love, the “alpha and omega” of Baha'i teachings. That every believer would rededicate herself or himself to the rigorous disciplines of daily prayer and reading the sacred writings and to the painstaking requirements of Baha’f life is our highest hope. Shoghi Effendi explains the great importance of this struggle. “One of the most paramount needs of the Cause...is that the friends should unite, should become really keenly conscious of the fact that they are one spiritual family, held together by bonds more sacred and eternal than those physical ties which make people of the same family. If the friends will forget all personal differences and open their hearts toa great love for each other for the sake of Bahd’u'lléh, they will find that their powers are vastly increased; they will attract the heart of the public and will witness a rapid growth of the Holy Faith.”

Eliminating backbiting and gossip

We note with grave concern that backbiting and gossip are widespread and that their effects are devastating. They vitiate the spiritual energies needed to advance the Cause. They break the hearts of innocent friends and place unnecessary burdens on the institutions. We hope that the friends will reflect on and comply with ‘Abdu’l-Bahd’s admonition about these evil practices: “If any individual should speak ill of one who is absent, it is incumbent on his hearers, in a spiritual and friendly manner, to stop him, and say in effect: would this detraction serve any useful purpose? Would it please the Blessed Beauty, contribute to the lasting honor of the friends, promote the holy Faith, support the Covenant, or be of any possible benefit to any soul? No, never!” Maturation of the institutions

We hope for a great effort on the part of every member of an institution and the Baha’{ community at large to overcome the gravitational pull of a decaying secular social order to foster a new mode of life. Shoghi Effendi emphasized that Baha’i administration is not “an end in itself” but rather “the instrument of the spirit of the Faith.” Its purpose, writes the House of Justice, is to facilitate “the emergence and maintenance of community life ina wholly new mode” and to cater to “the requirements of the spiritual relationships which flow from love and unity among the friends.” The maturation of the institutions is indispensable to the success of the Faith’s mission and depends on painstaking study and dis ciplined application of Baha’{ principles. Collaboration of the institutions

Anew phase in the maturation of the administrative order was initiated with the joint consultations of National Spiritual Assemblies and Continental Counselors that resulted in the formulation of goals for the Three Year Plan. The role of the Counselors and Auxiliary Board members to “spark and buttress” the growth and development of the community and to serve as “props and mainstays” to Spiritual Assemblies should be increasingly recognized as the divine arrangement Baha’u'llah 5 made for their support: “They thus assist Assemblies to mature.” Continued close collaboration among the appointed and elected institutions, we are convinced, will accelerate the progress of the Faith and strengthen the Baha’i community.

Individual initiative

Individual initiative, the preeminent aspect of the power to accomplish the goals of the Baha’i community, is yet another of our hopes. This indispensable resource for the progress of the Faith must be nurtured with loving encouragement from the institutions and tempered by them with the discipline of “mutual consultation and sacrifice.” The spirit of individual initiative and enterprise, writes Shoghi Effendi, “should be reinforced by a deeper realization of the necessity for concerted action and a fuller devotion to the common weal.”

Baha'i youth and children

The encouragement of initiative is especially important among Baha’{ youth, who have demonstrated heroic qualities in the teaching and service fields during the Three Year Plan. The vitality of the Cause, its soundness and destiny, lie in their hands for safekeeping. Our support of these young paladins must be such as “to empower them to display, ina fuller measure, their inherent capacities, and to unfold a further stage in their spiritual evolution under the shadow of the Faith of Baha’u’ll4h.”

Where children and youth are prospering, parents and Baha'i communities are devoting great attention to their development and training. These important efforts assure the spiritual health and vigor of Baha’i youth and open the doors to thousands of families in search of a spiritual way of life. The National Spiritual Assembly wishes these efforts to continue. For Baha’u’lldh has written that “It is the bounden duty of parents to rear their children to be staunch in faith, the reason being that a child who removeth himself from the religion of God will not act in such a way as to win the good pleasure of his parents and his Lord. For every praiseworthy deed is born out of the light of religion, and lacking this supreme bestowal the child will not turn away from any evil, nor will he draw nigh unto any good.”

Cares

Caren. 1. A burdened state of mind, as that arising from heavy responsibilities; worry. Passion for teaching

Where the friends have cultivated a passion for teaching, the Faith is growing. Members of Baha’{ youth workshops, domestic and international pioneers and traveling teachers, teaching projecteers, and friends who conduct regular firesides have one thing in common: their lives are organized around teaching. Too few of the friends are infected with this passion; therefore, our progress is slow. Teaching is the “head cornerstone of the foundation of the Faith” and the paramount duty of every Baha’. It is the primary means for relieving the suffering of humankind. “All of the agony, suffering and spiritual blindness afflicting people everywhere in the world,” writes Shoghi Effendi, “is because they are unaware of, or indifferent to, the remedy God has sent them.” Only those who have embraced the Cause of Baha'u'llah have been given the “duty and privilege” to carry His healing Message to others.

Each of us must take personal responsibility for the progress of the teaching work. Without a redoubled, sustained effort on the part of every individual Baha‘f, we cannot expect change in the pattern of enrollments or great acceleration in the progress of the Faith. Moreover, consideration must be given to recruiting persons of capacity and prominence. The success of this endeavor can “effectively forestall opposition to the Faith and smooth the way for many essential aspects of the development of the Baha’f community.” This challenge rests largely on the shoulders of individual believers as well as on the institutions of the Faith.

National Fund deficits

Chronic deficits in the National Fund are crippling the national administration. They have resulted in growing debt, annual workforce reductions, and a sharply diminshed capacity to carry out important work. The National Center staff has been pared down toa skeleton work force. Moreover, funds have not been available to provide cost-of-living adjustments for many years.

A core problem is that the National Fund is sup orted by a relatively small number of individual

lievers and Spiritual Assemblies. This year, for example, some 400 Assemblies did not contribute to the National Fund. A significant increase in the numbers of individuals and Assemblies contributing to the National Fund is immediately necessary to avert further erosion of the national administration. Moreover, the sheer number of non-participating individuals and Assemblies underscores the spiritual nature of the challenge we face.

Decentralizing the national administration will provide an effective long-term solution for the fastgrowing work of the national community. However, the short-term cost of an effective and well-founded decentralization program is high.

Equality and oneness

Work to foster race unity and eradicate racism has become a routine part of Baha’{ individual and community life. The American Baha’i community is widely recognized as a national leader in promoting race unity; yet much remains to be done to eliminate every vestige of racial conflict from our communities. At the heart of the challenge is the need to examine our race unity practices in the light of Baha‘u’llah’s teachings and to achieve rigorous conformity to those principles. A careful examination of these teachings and steadfast attention to their requirements will result in a quantum leap in the unity of the community, ensuring a marked acceleration of its growth. Moreover, Baha’is of every racial background must take responsibility for achieving race unity. Racism cannot be easily or immediately eradicated. However, dramatic progress can be made if we persevere, bearing in mind Shoghi Effendi’s guidance that nothing short of “genuine love, extreme patience, true humility, consummate tact, sound initiative, mature wisdom, and deliberate, persistent and prayerful effort can succeed in blotting out the stain” of this Poa evil.”

Persistent and prayerful efforts to advance the equality of women and men within the Baha’f community will have a revolutionizing impact on the spirit and character of Baha’i life and will exert a powerful influence on shaping the whole society. A statement on women, soon to be produced, will stimulate and reinforce our efforts in this area.

Teaching American Indians

The pace of teaching and the growth of Baha’i communities among the Indian peoples of America have experienced a marked decline in recent years. Hardwon victories on Indian reservations and among various tribes have been eroded, leaving once-thriving localities without the spiritual and social sustenance Bahd’i assemblies and communities are intended to provide. Efforts to establish healthy Baha'i communities on Indian reservations must be re

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newed. Moreover, Indians living in the cities must also be attracted to the Faith, steeped in the Baha’i teachings, and encouraged to assist the activities under way.

Plans

Plan n. 1. Ascheme, program, or method worked out beforehand for the accomplishment of an objective; a plan of attack. Vision in action: the march to victory

‘Abdu’l-Bahd set three conditions for success in the Divine Plan: firmness in the Covenant; love and unity among the friends; and teaching the religion of God. The Master promised that meeting these conditions would bring victory to the American Baha’f community. “Vision in Action: The March to Victory,” the National Spiritual Assembly’s plan for this closing year, is a call to every believer in America to make a Pereonal commitment to fulfill the prerequisites of success in the Three Year Plan. In the final year of the Plan each believer is asked to:

¢ hold a fireside every Baha’i month

attract at least one new soul to the Faith

pray and read the sacred Writings every day

contribute sacrificially to the Funds

¢ take an active part in Baha’f community life, including teaching activities

Spiritual Assemblies are asked to pursue goals of universal participation in teaching, giving to the Funds, anal fostering joy and harmony among the friends, thereby increasing participation in community life. A united effort of the entire American Baha’{ community will surely attract the confirmations of the Blessed Beauty and bring about a swift and great victory. Decentralization

In 1992 the National Assembly devised and submitted to the Universal House of Justice a plan for decentralizing key aspects of the national administration. The House of Justice approved that plan; however, it could not be implemented at the time because of insufficient funds. Since then, work has continued on refining the plan for decentralization. The National Assembly believes that reorganization and distribution of administrative functions must take place on several levels: the work of the National Assembly itself, the Baha’i National Center, and Spiritual Assemblies. The work of the National Assembly must evolve to focus more exclusively on matters of national policy and strategy; these changes have begun. The organization and work of the Baha’i National Center and of Spiritual Assemblies must also evolve to prepare for the growth the community will experience.

A key part of the plan for decentralization is an electronic network designed to link the Counselors, Auxiliary Board members and local Spiritual Assemblies with the National Assembly. Such a network will vastly increase the speed, capacity and efficiency of administrative functions at the national and local levels and will complement important aspects of our earlier plan. Costs for this program will approach $500,000. If funds allow, work will begin this year.

Local Spiritual Assembly Development Office

An Office of Spiritual Assembly Development will be established as a part of the Community Administration Department of the Office of the Secretary. Its mission is to provide systematic training of Spiritual Assemblies in all aspects of Baha’f administration.

External Affairs

External Affairs will continue to lead the defense of the Baha’fs in Iran and of the refugees from that land. Additional plans are under way for Congressional and United Nations resolutions for the defense of the Persian believers and the emancipation of the Faith in Iran. Other aspects of the external affairs work will proceed apace, including: participating in the Beijing Women’s Conference; coordinating the human Bene community’s efforts to advance con ressional implementation of the United Nations

‘onvention Against Racial Discrimination and participation in the UN Decade of Indigenous Peoples; commemorating the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the United Nations and of Baha’f participation with that body; and expanding the network of public information representatives and media outlets. The external affairs function is one of

the most important and critical functions of the national administration. The Universal House of Justice has instructed the National Assembly that this function must be maintained and has indicated that, if the National Assembly is unable to fund it adequately, the House of Justice will subvent the external affairs work.

House of Worship and properties

Work on the House of Worship, the permanent schools and institutes and the Baha'i National Center will proceed to the extent that monies are available. The annual cost of maintenance, repair, salaries and operation of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkar and other piopsnies is the largest single aspect of the annual budget and accounts for the largest part of the national debt.

Other matters

World Congress

At the request of the Universal House of Justice, the National Spiritual Assembly assumed responsibility for the logistics and financial aspects of the second Bahd’f World Congress to meet the needs of the 30,000 believers from more than 200 countries who attended. Approximately 17,000 attendees used the hotel packages, and 6,000 the transportation. After careful reconciliation of the hotel charges, the National Assembly contested $361,000 and reduced the final payment by $200,000.

After the Congress a few thousand of the friends had still not paid their bills, an amount of approximately $1,700,000. Several efforts have been made to contact those believers, remind them of their debt and encourage them to remit the total balance due or to begin installment payments. The fourth and final invoice was sent in February 1995. To date all but $240,000 of the amount due has been collected.

Also following the Congress, the National Assembly received telephone and written requests from attendees who experienced problems with their air or hotel arrangements. Each complaint was reviewed, and adjustments were made in 586 cases.

All monies received from airlines and attendees and any savings realized from settlements with hotels and the travel agency are forwarded to the World Center.

May 19, 1994, letter

The guidance and instructions conveyed in the May 19, 1994, letter of the Universal House of Justice have had a profound effect on the thinking of the National Spiritual Assembly, its understanding of its role, and its methods of operation and institutional priorities. Since receiving the letter, the National Assembly has taken action in several areas including deepening and restructuring the Assembly itself; refining its collaboration with the Counselors; further developing the methods of operation of the national administration and educating the national center staff; advancing pene for decentralization; and proposing a new plan for Spiritual Assembly development.

Over the past year the National Assembly has conducted a series of meetings with the Counselors to discuss the May 19 letter and its implications for action.

The Assembly also has acted to change its own internal organization. It dissolved an internal Executive Committee of the National Assembly, a committee of the Assembly’s six officers authorized to decide and execute secondary items on the Assembly’s agenda. The Executive Committee was intended to expedite the Assembly’s burdensome workload, but the effect of its existence was divisive. Hence it was abolished. Moreover, the National Assembly restructured its agenda to focus on issues of national policy and strategy. Likewise, the Assembly moved to change the format of the annual report and the National Convention.

At the Baha’i National Center a task force was established to coordinate study of the letter among the staff. Counselors and members of the National Assembly have led several of the continuing series of deepening and discussion sessions.

Plans for decentralizing the national administration and establishing an Office of Spiritual Assembly Development (discussed nicer under way.

The National Assembly expects to derive continued benefits in every aspect of community life

through persistent study and application of the guidance of the May 19, 1994, letter from the Universal House of Justice.

The foregoing summary outlines the main points of our hopes, cares and plans. There is much more However, the National Spiritual Assembly trusts that these points will suffice to stimulate reflection and discussion about its central concerns. In conclusion, we draw again from the May 19, 1994, letter of the Universal House of Justice:

Your capacity to respond will match any challenge that may confront you in these troubled times; you have only to act on principle. Your Sree pes has been glorious; its future is great beyond calculation. The divine promises to your community are certain; the blessings of Bahd’u'llah are assured as you strive to fulfill His purpose. The wings of the beloved Master remain spread over you that you may succeed in discharging the tasks He

las especially entrusted to your care. And our love ever surrounds you and your cherished community, growing stronger at every moment. Step forward then to meet the requirements of the hour with undiminished hope and confidence.

External Affairs

The National Spiritual Assembly has four offices that conduct its external affairs work: the Secretariat in Washington, D.C., the Office of Public Information and the U.S. United Nations Office in New York, and the Refugee Office in Wilmette. There are also two national representatives in Atlanta.

The external affairs activities guided by the National Spiritual Assembly and highlighted in this report were the result of 10 to 15 years of sustained effort by members of the National Assembly and many of its staff. Relationships between individuals and among organizations have been carefully nurtured, and expertise in a variety of fields has been gained.

Highlights

During a year in which external affairs activities were characterized by a deeper involvement in the pressing issues facing humanity and by greater roles of responsibility with several networks of likeminded non-Baha’f organizations, the National Spiritual Assembly also received significant messages on external affairs from the Universal House of Justice and learned that the President of the United States has written to the U.S. Senate about the persecution of the Iranian Baha’fs. The secretary-general of the National Assembly was one of four nongovernmental witnesses to testify before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in support of U.S. ratification of the U.N. Convention to Eliminate All Forms of Racial Discrimination. In July the Office of Public Information reopened in New York City, and several external affairs offices prepared for three major U.N. events during the U.N.’s 50th anniversary year.

Messages from the Universal House of Justice

In its Ridvan 1993 letter the Universal House of Justice stated that during the course of the Three Year Plan “the World Center will attend to coordinating widely diverse activities throughout the planet, giving further direction to the external affairs of the Faith as the Baha’{ International Community is drawn more deeply into dealing with world issues.” In October 1994 the House of Justice sent to all National Spiritual Assemblies an external affairs strategy paper “to guide the global activities of the community for the immediate future.” The paper, pre ared by a committee at the request of the House of Jstice, states that the purpose of world-wide external affairs efforts will be “to influence the processes toward world peace...[to] concentrate on human rights, the status of women, global prosperity and moral development...[and] to defend the Faith, as in the case of the persecution of the Baha’is in Iran.” The National Spiritual Assembly’s external affairs efforts to date have concentrated on human rights, the status of women, and sustainable development.

The Universal House of Justice also wrote a letter to the National Spiritual Assembly in July 1994 responding to questions about external affairs that the Assembly had raised during its visit to Haifa in March of that year. The letter stated in part that the House of Justice places great importance on the external affairs vo in Washington because “the relations you have built up over the years with the vari

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ous branches of your national government and with important organizations are of inestimable value to the Baha’i world and are of particular relevance to efforts to defend and protect the Faith in different lands.”

Defense of the Bahd’is in Iran

The secretary for external affairs visited Washington regularly to inform congressional and administration officials about the situation of the Baha’fs in Iran. Among her several services Marjorie Sonnenfeldt, in her 14th year as a public relations consultant for the National Assembly, set up appointments with top officials. They were kept ooned of the situation in Iran so that the Clinton Administration could support UN and congressional resolutions on the Iranian Bahd’fs and take action at the UN General Assembly.

On April 19, 1994, by a vote of 414-0, the House of Representatives passed Senate Concurrent Resolution 31 which had been passed by the Senate in November 1993. The resolution was the sixth congressional resolution since 1982 on the Iranian Baha’{ situation and urged “the Government of Iran to emancipate the Baha’i community by granting those rights guaranteed by...the international covenants on human rights.”

In July prominent senators and representatives sent letters to President Clinton and to Secretary of State Warren Christopher, appealing for continued US. leadership in the effort to free the Iranian Baha’{ community from its prolonged persecution. President Clinton responded to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in August, stating, “Lam deeply concerned about the situation that faces the Bahd’is...[and] my Administration will continue to work to create an international consensus to influence Iran to change its behavior on human rights.”

In February 1995 Congressmen Gilman and Hamilton, the leadership of the House International Relations Committee, wrote to the UN Human Rights Commission reminding the Commission of the situation of the Bahd’fs as it discussed its resolution on human rights violations in Iran.

In Wilmette the Baha'i Refugee Office, under the coordination of its director, Ms. Puran Stevens, continued to help U.S.-bound refugees and to obtain humanitarian parole for urgent medical cases. She communicated regularly with the office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, the State Department's Refugee Bureau, and the Immigration and Naturalization Service in Washington, D.C., to help those Baha’is whose circumstances required such assistance. She also kept in touch with the National Spiritual Assemblies of Turkey and Pakistan, countries that received the majority of the Baha‘f refugees. The director of the Refugee Office attended meetings to learn the most current refugee policies and regulations to assist better the Baha’fs entering the U.S. and continued to take part in the Illinois Social Service Consortium and the Chicago Coalition of Immigrant and Refugee Protection. Among her many interviews on the Iranian Baha’f refugees was one by National Public Radio in Washington. She also received a certificate of appreciation from the governor of Illinois “in recognition of outstanding dedication and service to the refugee communities of Illinois.”

On behalf of the National Assembly, Dr. Riaz Khadem spoke on the legal status of the Baha’fs in Iran at an international conference, “Religious Human Rights in the World Today,” at Emory University in October 1994.

A remarkable development in August 1994 has evolved into what may be described as one of the most important opportunities for the National Assembly to inform the U.S. government about the plight of the Iranian Baha’ community. At the suggestion of Mrs. Tom Lantos, the wife of one of the strongest supporters of the Iranian Baha’fs in the House of Representatives, the National Spiritual Assembly decided to create an exhibit to express its appreciation for efforts made by the U.S. Government to help the Iranian Baha’i community. The exhibit will be sponsored by Rep. John Porter, an equally strong defender of the Iranian Baha'is, and will be in the Cannon House Rotunda in May 1995. The Office of Public Information in New York is coordinating the design and construction of eight panels on the pillars of the rotunda that will describe the efforts of the U.S. government, other national

governments, the United Nations and individuals to alert the world to the persecutions as well as some of the activities of the worldwide Baha‘i community. The National Assembly will host a reception at which it will present the Baha’i Humanitarian Award to Reps. Gilman and Hamilton for their years of support for the Iranian Baha’i community. In 1988 the National Spiritual Assembly presented the award to Reps. Lantos and Porter, the co-chairmen of the Congressional Human Rights Caucus.

United Nations activities

Support for selected UN activities and collaboration with other nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) that participate in UN fora has proven to be the greatest avenue for Baha’i entree into external affairs activities at the national level. Since its initial support in 1985 for the U.S. ratification of the UN Convention on Genocide, the National Assembly has expanded its activities by working on the preparation for the UN conferences on the environment and development, human rights, social development, and women. In recent years its staff has held positions of responsibility within networks and committees that promote international issues and UN activities. The U.S. National Assembly, as one of the strongest pillars of the Baha’i International Community, reinforces its activities in the international arena. In fact the BIC and the National Assembly collaborate with many of the same organizations.

Support for international issues such as the status of women, the environment, and the ratification of international treaties allows the National Assembly not only to promote principles that are fundamental Baha’i teachings but also to exemplify Baha'i concepts, such as unity, consultation, eral artnership between women and men by word and action. As the Universal House of Justice stated in its Ridvan 1990 message, “increasing calls will made upon our community to assist, fvotieh advice and practical measures, in solving critical social problems. It is a service we will gladly render, but this means that our local and National Spiritual Assemblies must adhere more scrupulously to principle.” Such adherence also protects the institutions in the increasingly divisive and partisan atmosphere in which the external affairs work is conducted.

International Year of the Family

The UN declared 1994 as the International Year of the Family (IYF). The UN theme for IYF was “Promoting Families for the Well-Being of Individuals and Societies.” The U.S. Baha’f sub-theme was “A Family Is a Nation in Miniature.” The Baha’i U.S. UN office encouraged local Baha'i communities to build YF activities into their activities, such as youth and children’s classes, as well as to collaborate with other community groups and institutions to celebrate IYF. The U.S. UN office worked with the National Education Task Force to include IYF activities at the permanent Baha’f schools. College clubs were encouraged to hold campus events.

World Summit on Social Development

The National Spiritual Assembly was among the many NGOs and one of 24 National Assemblies officially accredited to the World Summit for Social Development held in Copenhagen in March 1995. Peter Adriance, the National Assembly’s NGO liaison, represented the National Assembly at the World Summit and the preceding NGO Forum after several months of preparatory activities including participation in the UN Preparatory Committees in New York and in an NGO Working eras based in Washington which formulated language for the Declaration and Program of Action, the UN documents of the conference. Ree Getahoun Murphy, the U.S. UN representative, also took part in the Preparatory Committee meetings in New York.

In November 1994 the NGO liaison developed a workshop on “social integration,” one of the three themes of the Summit, asking several civil rights NGOs, which did not usually work on international events, to be part of the panel to explore the theme of social integration in United States society. Fourth World Conference on Women

The U.S. UN representative has been coordinating the U.S. Baha’i community preparation for the UN Conference on Women to Ba Hea in Beijing, China, in September 1995. She spoke to more than 20 Baha’i communities and informed last year’s

National Convention delegates, the Baha’i permanent schools, youth workshops and campus clubs about the conference, encouraging Baha’fs to attend when possible.

The U.S. Department of Labor sponsored 10 regional meetings on the UN Women’s Conference, and the U.S. UN office informed those Baha’f communities in whose regions the meetings were held. The result of the effort was that 80 Baha'is from 20 states attended the regional meetings.

In October 1994 the Economic Council of Europe held an intergovernmental meeting in Vienna, Austria, on the upcoming UN Women’s Conference. Because North America was included in the regional meeting, Kit Cosby, the deputy director for external affairs, represented the U.S. National Spiritual Assembly, one of seven National Assemblies represented in the Baha’i International Community delegation. She worked daily with the U.S. Government delegation, particularly on human rights language for the regional intergovernmental document. The U.S. UN representative and the deputy director for external affairs also represented the National Assembly at the NGO Forum that preceded the intergovernmental conference focusing on community development and human rights issues.

The final Preparatory Committee meeting for the Fourth World Conference on Women in March 1995 provided several opportunities for Baha'i contributions. The Working Group on the Human Rights of Women, of which Ms. Cosby was a founding co-chair in September 1994, offered governments and NGOs a “human rights framework” for the Platform for Action, the document of the UN Women’s Conference. The U.S. government publicly expressed its gratitude for the “rights framework” and sent it to other government delevabns for their information and use. She also provided wording for the Platform for Action to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) official who asked her to serve in an advisory capacity to the U.S. delegation. Ms. Murphy worked with the BIC Office for the Advancement of Women to prepare a workshop for youth on partnership between men and women.

In July 1994 the U.S. Network for Beijing and Beyond was established in Washington to create a national network of NGOs and individuals participating in the preparations for and in the Conference in Beijing. The deputy director for external affairs was amember of its executive committee and its Federal Working Group, which developed a relationship with the U.S. Congress, the White House, and the State Department on issues related to the UN Women’s Conference.

United Nations 50th anniversary (UN 50)

The Bahai International Community and the National Spiritual Assembly have been collaborating on activities for UN 50 which is to be celebrated primarily in San Francisco in June 1995 and in New York City in October 1995. Trish Swanson, the National Assembly’s director for public information, and the U.S. UN representative were on a steering committee with members of the staff of the Baha’t International Community to organize activities for June and October. The Office of Public Information is producing a video to demonstrate the history of the Baha’fs at the UN; is creating an exhibit to be used in Geneva, New York, and San Francisco; and is helping the BIC with media coverage of Baha’i activities related to UN 50. The Office of Public Information is also helping a large public information and media group in the San Francisco Bay area to promote al publicize Bahai activities related to the 50th anniversary events.

The U.S. UN office sent more than 100 information packets on UN 50 to local Spiritual Assemblies and groups. The UN representative oversaw a committee appointed by the National Assembly and set up to coordinate Baha'i activities in San Francisco during its June celebrations. Both National Assembly offices in New York collaborated on a tabletop exhibit for use by local Baha’i communities for their own UN 50 celebrations. In collaboration with the U.S. UN office, the Louhelen Baha’f School was the first permanent school to host a class on global governance in commemoration of UN 50.

US. ratification of UN human rights treaties

Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination. Three years ago two mem

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bers of the National Spiritual Assembly’s Washington staff, the deputy director and her assistant, Jeffery Huffines, began coordinating NGO efforts to ratify the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination. On May 11, 1994, the secretary-general of the National Assembly was one of four nongovernmental witnesses to testify before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. On July 27, at a celebration reception co-hosted by the National Assembly, 20 other organizations and 30 federal officials, the secretary for external affairs was one of four dignitaries who spoke to the gathering about the importance of the United States ratifying the UN treaty dealing with the elimination of racial discrimination.

Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. In November 1994 the National Assembly wrote to 712 local Spiritual Assemblies asking members of their communities to contact their senators and request support for ratification of the Convention onthe Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. Two Baha’i representatives in the Washington office continued to participate in a committee for the ratification of the Women’s Convention, meeting with several Senators’ staff to educate them about the Convention. They also coordinated an April 1995 event for almost 100 NGO staff about the Women’s Convention and about working with the U.S. Senate to promote its ratification.

The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. When the United States issued its first report to the UN Human Rights Committee on U.S. compliance with the provisions of the UN Civil and Political Covenant, several NGO representatives, including the National Assembly’s deputy director for external affairs formed a review committee and held a conference for more than 100 NGOs in November 1994, for which she wrote a briefing paper on an overview of U.S. ratification of UN treaties. The NGO review committee, under the auspices of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, published in March 1995 an NGO book in response to the U.S. report and sent it to each of the 18 members of the UN Human Right Committee. Ms. Cosby wrote the chapter on the history of U.S. ratification of UN treaties and the legal implications of several amendments the United States attached at the time of its ratification of the Civil and Political Covenant. In March 1995 she attended the United States’ testimony about the condition of civil and political rights

, in the U.S. before the UN Human Rights Committee.

Convention on the Rights of the Child. With several other NGOs the National Spiritual Assembl: signed a letter in September 1994 that was sent to all Senators encouraging their puppet for ratification of the Convention on the Rights of the Child and providing counter-arguments for ratification. In February 1995 the U.S. UN representative attended a reception at the U.S. Mission in New York to celebrate the signing by the U.S. of the Children’s Convention. Signing the Convention was the first step toward ratification by the United States.

United Nations Association of the USA (UNAUSA).

In June 1994 Mr. Adriance, the NGO liaison, was elected to a two-year term as chairman of the executive committee of the Conference of Washington Representatives on the UN (CWRUN), a group of 130 Washington-based NGOs with membership in the UNA-USA. Meetings that plan and host events on UN issues were held in the National Spiritual Assembly’s Washington office. As chairman of CWRUN, Mr. Adriance was also on the UNA-USA Board of Governors. During its February 1995 meeting in Washington, the board met with several members of Congress to discourage its support for legislation that would have a negative impact on the United States’ relationship with the United Nations. On behalf of CWRUN, the NGO liaison also attended monthly meetings hosted by the UN Information Center with Washington representatives of UN agencies.

In other areas of service to the UNA-USA, members of the offices of external affairs served on the executive committee of the Council of UN Representatives to the UN in New York and its National Council.

The NGO liaison and the UN representative served on the advisory task force and the nominating committee for the UNA-USA annual convention to be held in San Francisco during the UN 50 celebration activities in June 1995.

For two years the deputy director for external affairs has been a member of the UNA/National Capital Area Human Rights Task Force. As the National Capital Area’s contribution to the UNA-USA’s annual policy project, Ms. Cosby and Bernard Hamilton, of the Minority Rights Group, were the project co-chairs and editors of a publication of 12 articles, Fresh Thoughts For Human Rights.

In August 1995 a conference on “The National Assembly on the U.S. and the UN” will be held in Washington. Mr. Adriance represented CWRUN on the conference’s planning committee. He has arranged for the Washington Baha’i Chorale to perform at the conference. The National Spiritual Assembly is one of the more than 100 co-sponsors of the event which is expected to draw more than 1,500 people.

Other UN activities

The UN representative followed several issues and the work of a number of committees and workin, groups at the UN and in the NGO community, suc! as the NGO Committee on the Day of the African Child, the NGO Committee on Youth, the NGO Committee on the Status of Women, the NGO Committee on Partnership, the U.S. Committee on UNICEF, the U.S. Committee on UNIFEM, and the planning Committee for the UN Environment Program Environmental Sabbath.

Human rights

Since the UN Conference on Human Rights in 1993, the deputy director for external affairs and her assistant have taken part in the Washington Coalition on Human Rights. For the past year Ms. Cosby has been the vice-chair of the Coalition of more than 80 member organizations that met monthly to coordinate a variety of human rights activities and events. She also met each month with a group of Washington-based directors of human rights organizations to discuss how their organizations might collaborate on issues and to provide one another with information on a variety of human rights concerns.

In October the deputy director for external affairs joined with 20 human-rights activists, academics, and U.N. and U.S. officials at a weekend retreat sponsored by the Stanley Foundation on “Human Rights and U.S. Foreign Policy: Who Controls the Agenda.” The proceedings were published in February 1995.

She also took part in a symposium at Notre Dame University in December called “The United Nations at Fifty: Creating a More Democratic and Effective UN.” Her paper, “Enhancing Participation by Human Rights NGOs in the UN System,” was published by the University’s Kroc Institute of International Studies.

Race unity activities

Dr. Carole Miller and Ms. Pat Steele continued their work as representatives of the National Spiritual Assembly to the Martin Luther King Center and the King Federal Holiday Commission. In January 1995 the Atlanta-area Baha'is, along with Dr. Robert Henderson and Dr. Miller, both of whom are King Federal Holiday commissioners, participated for the tenth year in the King Holiday Parade. Dr. Henderson was one of the grand marshals of the parade. Baha'is were involved in several King Week activities: its steering committee, coordinating the program “Prayers around the World,” coordinating the multicultural committee for “Celebrate Differences,” and preparing an international float for the parade. Because the Turner Broadcasting System covered the King parade, millions of Americans were introduced to the Faith through the description of the Baha'i float.

In August Baha’ representatives and youth gathered in Little Rock, Arkansas, at the National Youth Assembly of the King Center. Cornelia Rutledge was the National Assembly’s representative in Washington on the event's planning committee.

Also in August, Mr. Huffines of the Washington office and Ken Bowers, secretary of the National Teaching Committee, met with the UN Special Rapporteur of the Commission on Human Rights on Contemporary Forms of Racism, Maurice Glele Ahanhanzo, to present him with a report of U.S. Baha’f community activities that have promoted race unity. The Special Rapporteur was in the U.S. to study this country’s race relations and presented his findings to the 1995 UN Human Rights Commission in which the contribution by the National Spiritual Assembly was cited.

Sustainable development

Throughout the year the NGO liaison continued his AVSIVEREHE with the Citizens Network for Sustainable Development, a group of more than 100 U.S.-based NGOs ergeeed in fostering the movement for sustainability initiated at the 1992 Earth Summit. Besides participating in briefings on the UN Commission on Sustainable Development, he was on the planning committee for the Network’s annual conference that took place in Davenport, Iowa, in July. The National Assembly released a statement, “Unity and Consultation: Foundations for Sustainable Development,” which received a favorable response from conference participants. Mr. Adriance gave a workshop that explored the means by which representatives of business, government and NGOs could work together, assisted by principles of consultation.

Also in July he was one of 30 representatives of government, NGOs and academia invited to take part in a workshop of the Canadian National Roundtable on Environment and Economy held in Washington. The purpose was to prepare the Prime Minister of Canada for the Summit of the Americas held last December in Miami.

The deputy director for external affairs, since 1993 a member of the board of directors of the Global Tomorrow Coalition (GTC) as a representative of the National Assembly, was on the GTC annual dinner committee and is a member of the October 1995 Globescope conference planning committee. At the annual dinner in June 1994, with 400 people in attendance, she read the invocation, a prayer of Baha‘u'llah. Secretary of Energy Hazel O'Leary, the keynote speaker for the event, commented later in the evening on the beauty of the prayer. Ms. Cosby has been asked again to serve on the 1995 GTC annual dinner committee. In December Baha'i representatives in the Washington office attended the GTC Executive Forum on Corporate Sustainable Development with several corporate o'cials and NGO representatives.

News media

In September 1994 the Office of Public Information (OPI) convened a task force of Baha’is who are media professionals to consult on long-term strategies for reaching the national communications media. Office of Public Information contact with the media during the year included National Public Radio to speak about the arrests of individuals in connection with the murder of three Baha'is in South Africa in March 1994. Excellent media coverage in local Baha'i communities during the year occurred in Los Angeles; Houston; Lexington, Kentucky; Atlanta; Salt Lake City; Highland Ranch, Colorado; and Woodburn and Salem, Oregon.

During the past year Ms. Swanson, the OPI director, served as an officer of the New York Ge, chapter of the Religious Public Relations Council.

North American Interfaith Network (NAIN)

Dr. Thelma Khelghati, the National Assembly’s representative to the North American Interfaith Network, attended NAIN's annual meeting in Ottawa in August 1994.

Olympics Interfaith Advisory Committee

Dr. Miller and Ms. Steele continued their work on the Olympic Interfaith Advisory Committee preparing for the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta. At its mony meetings the committee discussed an interfaitl chapel for the athletes, the availability of religious materials, chaplains and religious contacts, and education and intercultural exchange for the athletes and their families. Public Information Representative network

After reopening the Office of Public Information in July, contact with the public information representative network was one of the office’s top priorities. In October the director of public information held the first of 11 regional meetings for public information representatives and interested others. The

[Page 19]‘AzamAr B.E. 152 ¢ Mav 17,1995 19

ANNUAL REPO

meetings allowed the public information representatives to meet with one another and discuss the media situation in their areas as well as to inform the OPI director about their needs for materials, training and assistance. The meetings also allowed the Office of Public Information to communicate its own information to the local communities. Southeast Asian Baha'i refugees

Besides its work with Iranian Baha’ refugees, the Baha'i Refugee Office in Wilmette also located Southeast Asian Bahd’{ refugees and recruited and trained Baha‘f “helpers” living near sites with large populations of Southeast Asians to promote cultural integration and spiritual development of the Baha’fs. The Office prepared Bahd’{ materials, both written and atdiny sail in various Southeast Asian languages, such as Khmer, Hmong, Laotian and Vietnamese, and made efforts to educate the American Baha’{ community about Southeast Asian culture.

More than 300 Southeast Asian Baha'is were enrolled in the U.S. Baha’i community this past year as the volunteer “helpers” began to see the fruit of years of effort to teach and consolidate the Southeast Asian population. The most promising aspect of the work was with the youth. Efforts to introduce the Southeast Asian young people to Baha’i Youth Workshops was reall received. This year two allSoutheast Asian local Spiritual Assemblies were formed—in Yuba County, California, and Dekalb County North, Georgia.

The Refugee Office worked with other National Spiritual Assemblies, such as Australia, and with French Guiana, sending materials in the Hmong language for assistance in the teaching and consolidation work among the Hmong refugees in that coun The Refugee Office published quarterly the “Southeast Asian Helpers Bulletin” to help Baha’fs who are working with the Southeast Asian community. Ms. Stevens visited California, Massachusetts, Georgia and Minnesota, assisting the local “helpers” to contact Southeast Asian refugees and encouraging local Baha’f communities to integrate the refugees into the greater U.S. Baha’f community.

She also worked with 10 Hmong Baha’is who attended the “International Symposium on Hmong” and “Conference for Promoting World Hmong Culture, Economy, Trade, Communication and Cooperation” held on mainland China.

Task force on teaching prominent people

In its Ridvan 1990 letter the Universal House of Justice said that the Faith “needs now to embrace increasing numbers of people of capacity, including persons of See and prominence in the various fields of human endeavor.” The National Spiritual Assembly appointed a committee of five to devise a Srey, to reach prominent individuals in the United $1,400,000

spiritual implications for the community that should not be obscured by the financial discussion and statistics that follow. Our giving patterns, whether as individuals or as institutions, showed during the year just ending that we are grappling with vital issues: the interrelationships eves the local, national and international institutions of the Cause; the levels of detachment and sacrifice we must make as the ransom for a distressed humanity; and the character of our love for Bahd’u'll4h as expressed in deeds.

Four major tangible developments shaped the evolution of the national Treasury during the past year:

Giving to the Arc Fund for the Mount Carmel

Proects rose at the fastest pace since 1989 and may well reach the $6 million mark by the end of the fiscal year.

Contributions to the National Baha’f Fund are

expected to finish the year at $10 million, 5 percent lower than the previous year.

Work on the crown of the holiest Mashriqu’lAdhkar and on the Sarah Farmer Inn was completed.

Volunteer efforts to raise funds for the Mount

Carmel Projects spread across the nation.

Revenues

Contributions to the four major Funds of the Faith—the Arc Projects Fund, the International Fund, the Continental Fund and the National Baha’i Fund—are projected to be 7 percent higher than last

ear, or more than $17.1 million. However, giving

as grown slowly over time. Graph 1 (in which the International, National and Continental Funds are combined) shows that progress between 1992 and 1995 has been gradual at best.

A worrisome trend is the enduring seasonal pattern of giving, a trend that directly ae the operations of the national administration. If one superimpore three years’ giving patterns for the four major

nds one on top of the other, as in Graph 2, one sees that not only does the pattern of peaks and valleys repeat itself but that the peaks have become higher and the valleys deeper.

This pattern is even more marked in the National Baha‘f Fund and represents more potential risk to the community, as aes in Graph 3.

Contributions to the National Baha’f Fund in 1995 lagged behind 1994 levels for most of the year and are estimated to end the year about 5 percent below the previous year’s total, or $10 million. Although August and eeeaber were relatively good summer months, the uneven income distribution placed significant cash-flow pressure on the National Assembly and led to an increase in borrowing.

Ananticipated increase of some 7 percent in earned income from the schools, the Baha‘i Publishing Trust and the Assembly’s investments will bring the total to $3.6 million for the year just ending. Together with

the $10 million in contributions, these earnings are projected to push the National Assembly’s total revenues to $14.4 million, not including contributions to the various international Funds of the Cause.

Are Projects Fund growth

The Arc Projects Fund made the greatest progress during the year. With total contributions expected to reach $6 million, the U.S. Baha’i community has raised its giving for the vast Mount Carmel Projects toits mugnest level since 1991—a remarkable achievement. The community’s response to the calls of the Universal House of Justice and the National Spiritual Assembly has, indeed, been heartwarming.

In 1991 the hand of the Cause of God William led us in helping to complete the $50 million reserve for the Mount Carmel Projects, and our contributions reached nearly $8 million. In the following two years contributions fell to one-half of the 1991 level. Since the beginning of the Three Year Plan, contributions have begun to return to levels that are, perhaps, more in accord with the spiritual primacy conferred on this community by ‘Abdu’‘l-Baha.

Prospects look food for the coming year, due in large part to the efforts of a growing network of volunteers in every part of the country. An effort that pera in February 1994 with an offer of sacrificial volunteer service by Melville Thomason has now blossomed into a cadre of more than 500 friends who are actively engaged at the local level as olaNer for activities designed not only to raise funds but, perhaps most important, to bring the believers together in joy and unity around this mighty task. Pledges have been made by friends across the nation as a result of these endeavors, and indications are good that these commitments to Baha’u'Il4h will be redeemed. ‘

The challenges for the coming year will be to achieve major increases in the amount of contributions and in the number of contributors and to strike a better balance in giving to the various Funds. As Graph 4 illustrates, the relative proportions of giving for the various funds have changed dramatically between 1992 and 1995.

Whereas in 1992, 13 cents of every dollar received at the National Center was directed to the Arc, today 35 cents of each dollar is earmarked for the Arc Projects Fund. Over the same three years monies available to the National Assembly for paying its own bills have dropped from 78 cents of each dollar received to 59 cents. It was this dilemma that the Assembly took to the friends in its letter of December 5, 1994: How can we increase the vital momentum of giving for the Arc, which spiritually and financially is our highest priority, while at the same time safeguarding our development at the local and national ievele?

States. The committee presented its recommendations to the Assembly in February 1995.

U.S. UN Office links with other Baha'i agencies

During the year the UN Office initiated discussions with the Louhelen and Green Acre Baha'i Schools for the system $1,200,000

$1,000,000

$800,000

atic education of the Baha'is on international issues and U.N.-telated activities. The Office sent copies of the 1994 U.N. Development Program (UNDP) Report and “Uniting the Peoples and Nations,” a publication of the World Federalist Movement, to the schools. Contact was also established with World Order magazine, Brilliant Star, the House of Worship, and WLGI

$200,000

fernational Fui

Radio in South Carolina. Treasury

This year’s developments in the Treasury have important

Total Contributions

8

9- 10- 11- 12- 193 93 93 93 93 94 94 94 94 94 94 94 94 94 94 94 94 95

2- 3- 4- S- 6- 7- 8 9- 10- 11- 12- 1

[Page 20]

Local Assembly goals The National Spiritual Assembly believes the Progen of SpiriIs

tual Assembly goals for the National Bahd’i Fund, now entering, its sixth year, is crucial to solving the dilemma. Far more than a fiscal management tool, the goal program isa tangible reflection of the spiritual link that exists between the National Spiritual Assembly and the local bodies upon whom the national admin-— istration’s stability depends. One of the processes that will coincide with the Lesser Peace is the maturation of local and national institutions; the local goal program is one measure of our progress to $2,300,000

$2,000,000

$1,700,000

$1,400,000

$1,100,000

$800,000

$500,000

ward this goal.

Unlike previous years, during 1994 Spiritual Assemblies set —__— their own commitment levels without having first received a supgested target from the Office of the Treasurer. A firm core of more than 1,000 Spiritual Assemblies, nearly three-quarters of all {

May

$1,400,000

Jun Jul

Seasonal patterns of giving: National Fund

Jan

Assemblies, has actively participated in the program since its inception, demonstrating dedication and sacrifice. The goal for this final year of the Three Year Plan must be universal participation by every Spiritual Assembly, as well as participation by a growing number of registered groups.

$1,100,000

On the next page is a table showing the growth in the cost of conducting the community’s national affairs, together with the increases in debt incurred to meet

crucial long-term goals. Note that the figures (in millions of dollars) do not include contributions made for the international Funds, inasmuch as the focus is on the domestic operations and programs of the National Assembly.

Expenses and debt have grown steadily over the past six years as the mandate of the community has expanded. During these years, though, the National Spiritual Assembly has operated from a position of austerity, which is clearly reflected in the virtually constant level of expense over the last three years; basic expenses rose only 1.6 percent between 1994 and 1995. Our national administration has become, at this stage in its development, a $15 million organization. To help the friends understand this fact better, we have drawn on comments and questions received during the past year.

Salaries and staffing

One of the areas that seems to be of most concern to some of the friends is staffing, with its attendant salary, tax and benefit expenses. This year, salaries are expected to total some $5.5 million; payroll taxes, insurance, and pension costs—another $1.8 million—bring total personnel expenses to $7.4 million, or 50 percent of all operating expenses.

It is important to note that total salaries increased last year by only about 2 percent; factoring in a 3 percent rate of inflation, total salaries actually fell. The main cause for the nominal increase this year was the decision of the National Assembly to give 4 percent raises to employees earning less than $30,000 annually; before this decision, many of the friends Beane the National Assembly had received no raises for as many as seven years. The average salary at the offices and agencies of the National Spiritual Assembly is well below the average in the community, which the Office of Treasurer’s 1991 survey indicated was approximately $38,800. The salaries of the highest-paid officers are lower than those at comparable organizations; to ensure fairness and balance, the Human Resources department and the Office of the Treasurer consult other organizations

lay

| |

$800,000 $500,000 M:

Aug

and published surveys, such as those printed periodically in The Chronicle of Philanthropy. In a survey of foundation officers’ compensation, for example, the Chronicle reported that the 1992 median income for a foundation president was $155,000; among other charitable organizations, according to a 1994 Chronicle study, 61 of 189 major charities paid their presidents at ies $200,000 and gave yearly raises averaging 5 percent (vs. inflation of roughly 3 percent in recent years). Good Shepherd Services, a New York social services agency with a $13 million budget, paid its executive director $78,000 in 1993. All of these salaries exceed those paid by the National Spiritual Assembly to its staff.

In the interest of maintaining salary costs as low as possible, the National Spiritual Assembly has adopted a policy of keeping staff levels as low as they can be, consistent with the kind of service reauicements it feels are needed by the community.

ere have been broad reductions in staffing levels in virtually every office of the national administration.

In 1989 some 325 people received salaries from the National Spiritual Assembly for work done in Wilmette, at the permanent schools and institutes, and in offices in New York and Washington. Today 223 people carry a work load that has grown dramatically over the six intervening years.

To fill the gaps, the National Assembly’s strategy has been threefold: hire more experienced people who bring records of achievement to their service; use computer technology to increase productivity; and build networks of volunteers wherever possible. The result has been that the services offered the community and others have been maintained, even increased, without adding people and their attendant costs. The SueStON remains, however, whether such an approach represents a safe position from which

Feb

to prepare for the long-expected entry by troops: how will we accommodate accelerated growth with an infrastructure already stretched to its limits?

Other expense categories

Another of the items some friends have inquired about is travel. This number appears to have grown. In 1990 the total was about $364,000, while in 1995 it is projected at roughly $600,000. Travel represented, however, only 3 percent of total operating expenses in 1990, and five years later it still accounts for only 3 percent.

The External Affairs work, discussed elsewhere in detail, has been a much more significant expense. The projected outlay on this vital service, with its life-and-death, worldwide implications, will be $927,000 in 1995; since 1991 we have invested $4.2 million in this area alone.

The community’s property portfolio represents a notable cost, not just this year but every year. In 1995 maintenance on the 100-plus structures held in trust by the National Spiritual Assembly is estimated at $1.7 million; restoration and improvements on these buildings will add another $1.6 million. These outlays have made possible the completion and reopening of the Sarah Farmer Inn at the Green Acre Baha‘i School, key to that institution’s eventual self-sufficiency, and the restoration of the crown of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkar, the most recent stage in a decade-long restoration program for this sacred, silent teacher of our Faith.

Since 1991 the properties bill has been much more substantial than has generally been recognized and has accounted for most of the National Assembly’s “discretionary” income, which might be used for a myriad other purposes. Maintenance has averaged more than $1.5 million a year since 1991; capital expenditures have added another $9 million during

[Page 21]ANNUAL REPOR

the same period. In other words, properties have consumed some $17 million in the last

‘AzamAt B.E. 152 © Mav 17,1995 21

five years. These unavoidable costs, whichac- Total contributions

tually represent a minimal expenditure in

comparison with the need, have limited our Expentes eed

strategic possibilities, and debt has grown to Revenues Operations* Capital Total Exp Outstanding Long-Term Projects

cover the shortfall in current contributions. 1989” $10,556 $10,663. $789 ‘$11,452 $3,976 HOW stairs, Green Acre

The debt structure of the National Bahé’i 1990 $9,036 $11,580 $1,095 $12,675 $2,596 Debt Reduction; Green Acre; HOW Cleaning

Fund 1991 $10,737 $11,193 $2,064 $13,257 $4,153 New mainframe; HOW cleaning; World Congress Prep During the 1995 fiscal year the indebted- 1992 $15,136 $12,294 $1,390 $13,684 $5,141 HOW Cleaning; Sarah Farmer/Green Acre Restoration

ness of the National Spiritual Assembly was 1993 $13,340 $14,636 $1,908 $16,544 $7,896 HOW Crown Repairs; Sarah Farmer continues

reduced by $1,485,463. This sum represented 1994 $14,782 $14,688 $1,896 $16,584 $8,956 HOW Crown Repairs; Sarah Farmer; Wilhelm Cabin

pledges to the Universal House ofJustice that jose $14,549 $14,922 $1,902 $16,824 $9,584 HOW Crown Repairs finished; Sarah Farmer opens

were accrued as liabilities in 1992 and 1993. These sums were to have been allocated from the general revenues (that is, unearmarked contributions) of the National Assembly, but because of insufficient contributions, the pledges could not be met in those years. As no accounting, regulation requires these amounts to be included in the National Assembly’s financial statements as indebtedness, this adjustment has now been made. The debt structure of the National Fund as presented herein now represents more clearly the results of the actual operations.

At the end of the fiscal year the National Spiritual Assembly had loans outstanding from institutional and individual lenders totaling $9.6 million. This burden of indebtedness, all short-term, represents a significant risk to the stability of the community and its national administration, especially since our teachings tell us that the times ahead will become increasingly turbulent.

The National Assembly has long recognized the need to reduce the level of debt but now feels that this must become an organizational objective. The national budget for the coming year, therefore, includes a $1.5 million target for debt repayment. The National Assembly’s ability to meet this target, however, will depend in large part on the believers themselves, since we have elresdy seen that major efforts have been made to hold all categories of expense to bare minimum levels. For the last two years, the National Assembly has attempted to pay down its debt. Each year, however, seasonal swings in the cash flow have made this impossible. The summer drop in giving prompts borrowing, which must then be repaid in the fall, and no net reduction in debt takes place. No effort to cut expenses will be spared; but giving must increase.

Social and economic development

During the Holy Year the National Spiritual Assembly created and incorporated two social and economic development agencies—Mottahedeh Development Services (MDS) and Health for Humanity (HH). The Development Department of the Treasurer’s Office serves as the National Assembly’s liaison for the program development and financial management of both agencies.

Mottahedeh Development Services opened a second office in Atlanta, in part to be able to work more closely with the Family Unity Institute, a program created in conjunction with the Spiritual Assemblies of South DeKalb County, Georgia, and Conway, South Carolina, in the elaboration of their development agenda. MDS, with Health for Humanity, cosponsored the Baha’i Health Conference at the Louhelen School, Internationally, MDS personnel played key roles in developing a comprehensive educational program in five public schools in the Marshall Islands; assisted with fund management of a BIC joint project with the UN Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM); secured funding for the National Spiritual Assembly of India to train two pri

Note:

Other Int'l | 9%

NBF 78% Are

13%

May 1992 —

Does not include allocations to international Funds

mary health-care workers who, in turn, will train other Baha’i community development workers in that country; secured donations for training in Zambia of a health officer to perform septic surgery for leprosy patients; and was commissioned by the Universal House of Justice’s Office of Social and Economic Development to take part in a global study of applications of microenterprise methods in the context of Baha’i communities.

Health for Humanity received its first grant from the Soros Foundation for the development of eye services in Albania, which has paralleled the initiation of the Albanian Eye Project calling for an officially recognized HH presence in that nation; formed five regional networks in metro Washington, D.C., Southern California, Georgia, Michigan and Texas; continued its support for programs in Guyana, Honduras and Dominica; initiated new efforts in Kenya and the Anhui Province of China; further developed its business plan and held its first fund-raiser; published a quarterly newsletter; improved its inventory system for gifts of medical supplies and equipment; and doubled its contributing membership to 500. Huqtiqu’lléh

Huqtqu'll4h ent of God) is a law revealed by Baha’u'lléh in the Kitdb-i-Aqdas. Obeying the law of Huqtiqu’llah purifies the material wealth we acquire throughout our lifetime by giving back to the Cause of God a part of that which came from our Creator.

Payments of Huqtiqu’lléh are deductible for federal income and estate tax purposes. Checks for Hugqtiqu’‘llah should be made payable to “Baha’i Huqtiqu’ll4h Trust” and sent directly to one of the following Trustees:

Dr. Elsie Austin,

Silver Spring, MD 20901

Dr. Amin Banani, Santa Monica, CA 90402 Dr. Daryush Haghighi, Rocky

River, OH 44116

Note: The Trustees of the Baha’i Huququ’llah Trust have directed the Office of the Treasurer to return to the sender any checks if received for Huqtiqu’llah.

Distinctive Features of the Baha’i Fund

Sacred obligation

Contributing to the Baha’{ Fund ona regular basis is the sacred obligation of every sincere believer. Voluntary nature

The amount given is voluntary and rests entirely with the individual—yet the amount is important. Every contribution is valued by the degree of sacrifice involved. Privilege

Supporting the Fund is a privilege reserved only for those who have declared their belief in

Other Int'l

6% NBF 59% Are 35%

April 1995

Baha‘u’llah. Regular and sacrificial

Regular and sacrificial giving is a measure of a believer’s devotion to Baha’u’llah and a cause of spiritual growth.

Notes to Financial Statements: April 30, 1995, and 1994

Operations and accounting policies

The National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’fs of the United States (the Assembly) was established in 1927 as a voluntary trust and subsequently incorporated in October, 1994, as an Illinois not-for-profit corporation to administer, teach and further the Baha’i Faith in the United States.

The accounts of the Assembly are maintained on the accrual basis. The financial statements of the Assembly include the assets, liabilities, fund balances and financial activities of the Baha’{ National Fund, the Baha’i Publishing Trust and the Baha’f Home.

The principal accounting policies used by the Assembly are as follows:

Contributions

Contributions from members of the Faith, unless specifically restricted by the donor, are considered to be available for unrestricted use and are recorded as received. Contributions in kind are recorded at an amount representing the estimated fair value of goods and services received arin the year. Items received of artistic or religious significance for which no value can be readily determined and which are not anticipated to be sold are recorded at nominal value.

Contributions from non-members may not be used to support the Faith and, accordingly, such amounts received are distributed for other humanitarian causes. Contributions restricted by the donor for particular programs and projects, or for propery, and equipment acquisitions, are earned and reported as revenues when the Assembly has incurred expenses for the pul specified by the donor. Such amounts received, but not yet earned, are reported as restricted deferred amounts. Estate bequests are recorded when the funds are received.

Tax-exempt status

The U.S. Treasury Department has held that the National Spiritual Assembly and all subordinate local Spiritual Assemblies are exempt from federal income tax as organizations described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) of 1986. Accordingly, contributions made to the National Spiritual Assembly and all of its subordinate local Spiritual Assemblies are deductible by the donors for federal income tax purposes as provided by IRC Section 170.

Bequests, legacies, devises, transfers or gifts to the National Spiritual Assembly or its subordinate local Assemblies are deductible for federal estate and

ift tax purposes as provided by IRC

ctions 2055, 2106, and 2522. Inventories | Inventories of books and special materials are valued at average cost. Investments

Investments are recorded at market value.

Property and equipment

Property and equipment are stated at cost. The Assembly computes depreciation of fixed assets over their estimated useful lives using the straight line method.

[Page 22]The American BanAt = 22

ANNUAL REPORTS

Reports from departments, committees, schools

SECRETARIAT

Community Administration

GOAL

To provide administrative support to the National Spiritual Assembly by monitoring the development of Baha’i communities; offering guidance to local Spiritual Assemblies in their formations, dealing with violations of Baha’f law, problems of disunity and disputes, personal status issues, withdrawals and reinstatements of Baha’i membership; helpin, believers with issues of immigration and naturalization; assisting Management Information Services with enrollments and membership transfers of individuals from the Middle East; and maintaining files of all correspondence received from the Universal House of Justice.

ACTIVITIES

Received and processed a total of 5,591 letters and handled approximately 10,000 telephone calls.

Prepared 125 personal status cases for the consideration of the National Spiritual Assembly. A total of 402 requests for eithcraral were granted, and 41 people were reinstated after having been withdrawn from Baha’i membership.

Persian/American Affairs Office

GOAL

To further the integration of Persian-speaking Baha‘is in collaboration with local Spiritual Assemblies, groups and individuals; to further the development and distribution of integration programs and materials that can be used also by other agencies; and to act as liaison to regional Persian media task forces appointed by the National Spiritual Assembly to monitor and respond to misrepresentations of the Faith in Persian media.

ACTIVITIES

Held the fourth annual conference of the “Friends of Persian Culture” and produced a text of the proceedings of the first two annual conferences, titled Peik of the Friends of Persian Culture.

Monitored the activities of the Persian Media Task Forces in Southern California, the Washington, D.C. area, and Atlanta, Georgia. The Southern California Task Force broadcast weekly live and pre-recorded programs on an FM radio station and responded to several items in Persian print media. The Regional Persian Media Task Force for the Washington, D.C. area broadcast pre-recorded radio programs called “Payam-i-Doost” and held a successful fund-raising pioeem that paid for all costs of the program and for the acquisition of production equipment. The Persian Media Task Force in Atlanta, appointed in January 1995, began its radio broadcasts in March by broadcasting prayers for the Fast.

Assisted with arrangements for two weekend intensive deepening programs in Persian conducted in Northwest Harris County, Texas, and University Park, Texas; three weekend seminars on the importance of and methods for teaching Persian readin; and writing to children held in the Washington, DC. area, in Houston, Texas, and at the Baha'i National Center; and assisted the Baha'i community of Skokie, Illinois, to organize a weekend of intensive study of the Kitdb-i-Aqdas held at the Baha’i National Center.

Coordinated the work of the Persian Reviewing Panel; received subscription fees for Payam-i-Baha’i from U.S. subscribers; helped to distribute Baha’fliterature in Persian and Arabic published abroad; produced a total of 50 Persian pages for The American Baha'i; produced four issues of Tabernacle of Unity, a quarterly bi-lingual publication sent to Counselors, Auxiliary Board members and 300 network members; and published Eliminating Racial Prejudice: The Baha'i Perspective, a study guide in Persian for use in organizing deepenings on race unity.

Coordinated translations of a number of compilations prepared at the Baha’ World Center; helped translate the Ridvan 151 message of the Universal House of Justice; helped with the Persian translation of The Baha'i Newsreel soundtracks; prepared

Persian translations of National Spiritual Assembly messages, including Feast letters and the My, 19, 1994, letter addressed to the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United States; and prepared English translations of items in Persian newspal ers for the Office of the Secretariat for External Affairs.

Office of Research and Review

GOAL

To perform research, writing, scholarship, literature review and special materials review functions for the National Spiritual Assembly.

ACTIVITIES

Wrote 3,045 letters concerning literature review, special materials review, the Haj Mehdi Arjmand Memorial Fund scripture conferences, the Association for Baha’f Studies, and the Institute for Baha’f Studies.

Completed the literature review process on 164 items (representing a 23 percent increase over the 125 reviews completed in 1993-94 and a 188 percent increase over the 57 items reviewed in 1992-93) and pisces an additional 113 items submitted to the

ecial Materials Reviewing Committee for a total of 277 separate items reviewed.

Compiled and published the annual report of the agencies of the National Spiritual Assembly; surveyed all local Spiritual Assemblies in the U.S. and compiled an annual statistical report requested by the Universal House of Justice; assembled a bibliography of works by the Hand of the Cause of God Louis G. Gregory; helped the Special Materials Reviewing Committee complete new guidelines for reviewing special materials; located writers to complete In Memoriam articles for The Baha'i World; assembled several compilations of the Baha’f writings, including one on death and dying for a public hospice in Texas; and wrote letters on behalf of the National Spiritual Assembly at the request of its Secretariat.

Helped Baha’{ students and academics of other religions by responding to queries; reading papers and articles for publication and offering suggestions for improvement; producing academic and instructional materials; writing articles about the Faith for encyclopedias and other reference works; writing letters politely offering corrections of misinformation about the Faith in reference and scholarly publications; encouraging the creation of university courses on the Faith; attending academic conferences and encouraging Baha’is to present papers on the Faith at such venues; sponsoring scholarly conferences and lectures on the Faith; providing research advice and assistance; and helping with the publication of scholarly works on the Faith.

Planned and executed three research colloquia sponsored by the Haj Mehdi Arjmand Memorial Fund: one in the Persian language at Green Acre Baha‘f School in October 1994; one on the Kitdb-iAgdas at the DePoort Baha’f School in the Netherlands in November 1994; and one on the Kitdb-iAgqdas in Wilmette in March 1995; and collaborated with the Archives Office and World Order Magazine in planning observances of the centenary of the establishment of the Baha’i Faith in North America.

Proposed the creation of the Institute for Baha’i Studies in conjunction with the Archives Office, the Education and Schools Office, the Persian-American Affairs Office and World Order magazine to foster the systematic study of the Baha'i Faith. Following approval by the National Spiritual Assembly and the appointment of representatives of each agency to a task force, the Institute sponsored a talk by Dr. Julie Badiee about the Houses of Worship around the world; two talks by Dr. Moojan Momen; a conference on Women in Baha’{ Perspective; and began assembling a document defining key Baha'i terms to be sent to every dictionary published in the United States. The Institute for Baha’i Studies’ proposal for the creation of an educational agency of the National Spiritual Assembly also was approved. The Wilmette Institute will provide courses on the Faith including a four-year program of study equivalent to three university-level courses each year.

Planned the Baha’{ Studies program offered at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Religion, the display of materials about the Baha'i Faith in the AAR’s exhibition hall, and the Religious Studies Seminar at the Association for Baha’{ Studies conference in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Continued to cosponsor a weekly non-credit course on world religions at the Baha’i House of Worship and offered a course on the Baha’i Faith for college credit at DePaul University in Chicago.

Published an article about the history of the American Baha’{ community from 1894-1994 in World Order magazine; wrote articles about the Faith and about Corrine True for encyclopedias and an article about the Baha’ vision erage ’s future for an interfaith book to be published by Oneworld Publications; completed page-proofing an article titled “The Baha’i Faith in the Nineties” for a book on new religions in the United States and the final version of The Baha'i Faith in America, Volume Two, 1900-1912; and agreed to assemble materials for a CD-ROM on religious diversity in the U.S. for a Harvard University project.

Served on the Association for Baha’i Studies International Advisory Committee, its Executive Committee, and the editorial board of its Journal of Baha'i Studies, and served on the editorial board of World Order magazine.

Office of the Secretary—Conventions

GOAL

To plan, coordinate and direct implementation of National and District Conventions and to educate the American Bahai community on the punciples and implementation of Baha’i district and national elections.

ACTIVITIES

Coordinated all activities and reporting procedures for the 155 District Conventions, appointed local Spiritual Assemblies to host conventions, and supported and helped those Assemblies with logistical procedures for hosting conventions.

Planned and coordinated the logistics for the 1995 National Convention, the first national convention since 1986 to be held away from the Baha’i House of Worship, in anticipation of serving 171 delegates and approximately 1,800 visitors.

Prepared an article about the pe and history of National Convention and a District Convention site listing for publication in The American Baha'i and revised, published and distributed to the District Convention host Assemblies the District Convention Planning Guide.

TEACHING

National Teaching Committee

GOAL

To support and guide regional and district teaching committees and teaching efforts across the United States; to help the National Assembly restructure administrative aspects of the teaching work; and to help promote and execute the national teaching plan.

ACTIVITIES

Renewed the call to the American Baha’i community to achieve the numerical goals of the Three Year Plan in its first 19 months, by the anniversary of the Birth of Baha’u’ll4h on November 12, 1994. One goal of “Mission 19,” to raise 3,000 traveling teachers and 500 homefront pioneers, already has been won, but only five new local Spiritual Assemblies have been formed in cities with populations of 50,000, well short of the goal of 142 such new Assemblies. Enrollments recorded as of March 1, 1995, show the community has grown by 1,383 adults and 417 foun. During the Six Year Plan the rate of Assem ly formations eeres steadily; however, in the

ast year 1,411 local Spiritual Assemblies were formed (28 of them for the first time), respresenting the first increase in the number of cently formations since the end of the Seven Year Plan (1986).

Called for all local Spiritual Assemblies to formulate teaching strategies for the second year of the

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ANNUALREPORTS

Three Year Plan and asked fObPrOGTESs reports from Assemblies that had submitted plans during the first year, receiving slightly more than 600 responses out of approximately 3,300 communities.

Produced and distributed throughout the count a booklet entitled “Vision in Action” which included: the November 9, 1993, letter from the Universal House of Justice to all National Spiritual Assemblies about entry by troops; the October 1993 statement and compilation “Promoting Entry by Troops,” prepare by the Research Department of the Universal

louse of Justice; an excerpt from the National Spiritual Assembly’s 1994 annual report on “Fundamental Issues Facing the American Baha’i Community”; and “A Strategy for Large-Scale Expansion and Consolidation,” prepared by the National Teaching Committee.

Completed the national “HEAT Wave” fireside campaign created to engage individual believers in achieving the goals of the Three Year Plan by holding regular firesides. By the end of the campaign last November, about 2,000 individuals had reported holding firesides attended by more than 4,000 Baha’fs and 2,000 guests.

Appointed. State Teaching Committees for North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Texas, Arizona, California Southern, California Northern, Oregon and Washington to foster intercommunity collaboration, establish statewide goals, and promote systematic patterns of teaching that include a balance of proclamation, expansion and consolidation efforts.

Appointed national task forces for teaching Latin American and Chinese populations and continued to guide the efforts of seven Regional American Indian Teaching Committees, all of which are responsible for stimulating and SURPOrane: projects aimed at these ethnic groups, for developing specialized teaching materials, and for fostering intercommunity collaboration. Also appointed a National Arts Task Force, charged with developing strategies to foster the use of the arts in teaching, which began publishing Art Matters, a magazine dedicated to promoting teaching through the arts.

Launched and supported a national youth teaching campaign, aay of Light,” which called for local Spiritual Assemblies to organize youth teaching projects and for youth to arise as teachers. By the end of summer 1994, 120 pisces were reported involving at least 1,000 youth participants. In Febtuary 1995, the National Teaching Committee asked local Spiritual Assemblies to intensify the campaign to involve many more youth during the final year of the Three Year Plan. The National Teaching Committee supported such efforts through regional coordination and the provision of materials and a training prcerem for local Spiritual Assemblies and youth.

Held a national Army of Light youth conference in Phoenix, Arizona, last December, attended by approximately 2,000 people; placed 15 youth in domestic posts through the Baha’f Youth Service Corps program; sent College Club packets to 150 local Spiritual Assemblies that sponsor College Clubs; provided guidance to youth traveling teachers and homefront pioneers; and inaugurated a national Bahai Youth Workshop Office, responsible for developing and stimulating youth teaching using the workshop model. As of March 1, 1995, the number of Bahai youth workshops in the U.S. had grown from 40 to 73 during the Three Year Plan.

Published, in collaboration with the Baha’i Publishing Trust, a new pamphlet entitled Bahd’u'Tléh: God's Messenger to Humanity that was distributed free of crate to all local Spiritual Assemblies and made available for the cost of postage only to all believers. As of March 1, 1995, 325,000 copies had been distributed in the U.S. and Canada.

Supported more than 100 teaching projects throughout the country by providing honceen pioneers and traveling teachers, teaching and deepening materials, deputization, coordination of intercommunity support, and visits by members of the National Teaching Committee.

Published regularly articles and news items about teaching in The American Baha'i, including a series of letters from the National Teaching Committee to the American Baha’ community about various aspects of large-scale expansion and consolidation.

Collaborated with the Media Services department to produce the third video installment of the Vision in Action series highlighting successful teaching activities in three areas of the U.S. and collaborated with the Baha’f Distribution Service to develop a color catalog of teaching and deepening materials for use in local teaching campaigns.

Sent representatives to a number of events including the National Spiritual Assembly's gathering of indigenous peoples held in August 1994, local and statewide teaching conferences and training sessions, Army of Light training sessions, Special Visitors programs, and various other meetings and conferences.

Office of Pioneering

GOAL

To fulfill the mandate as stated in a letter from the Universal House of Justice dated August 25, 1993, to the National Spiritual Assembly to “raise up and prepare an increasing number of long- and shortterm pioneers and traveling teachers, aiming at the deployment of at least 2,000 of them in the international field. . . .”

ACTIVITIES

Exceeded the initial goal of deploying 2,000 pioneers and traveling teachers during the course of the Three Year Plan. Since March 1, 1993, more than 3,185 American Baha’fs have responded to the call for international service. In the past year, from May 1, 1994, through February 1, 1995, 238 Baha‘is left for international pioneer posts, 26 Baha’i Youth Service Corps volunteers were deployed, and 891 individuals undertook 1,261 international traveling teaching, trips. Many of these believers shared professional skills with colleagues, contributing to the fields of medicine, law, psychology, management and business, education and training in the countries of Eastern Europe, Russia, Mongolia, Siberia and other areas of the Far East and Australasia.

Monitored a network of 45 resource individuals to help recruit and train prospective pioneers and traveling teachers for specific countries who conducted four training sessions in various areas of the United States.

Held five Pioneer and Baha’f Youth Service Corps Training Institutes, attended by 76 adults, youth and children, and provided specialized training to 87 individuals in collaboration with other institutions for specific service in Asia.

Task Force for the Baha’i House of Worship

GOAL

To serve and work with Baha’i communities to spread the message of the Baha’f Faith and to involve larger numbers of people from greater distances in the activities held in the Temple.

ACTIVITIES

Welcomed 167,536 visitors from 90 countries, with the largest percentages coming from the U.S. and Canada, Poland, Germany, India, Mexico, the Philippines, the United Kingdom, Israel and Colombia; welcomed 5,252 individuals this year to devotions held at 12:15 p.m. each day; and conducted 160 tours for more than 5,000 people. House of Worship staff witnessed 21 declarations of belief in Baha’u’llah.

Responded to 980 interest cards in three languages and mailed 927 introductory books about the Faith at the request of seekers.

Provided free materials in 38 languages including a comprehensive brochure about the Faith; two prayer sheets in English (one for adults and one for children); a prayer sheet in Spanish; a copy of the statement of the Universal House of Justice on peace; a visit card provided to hotels, airports, tourist shops and individuals; and a quarterly newsletter for volunteers.

Supervised the activities of 271 volunteers who donated more than 10,500 hours of service as guides, tour leaders, discussion leaders, choir members, readers, ushers/hosts, office aides, program and hospitality coordinators, flower arrangers and summer interns.

Supervised the maintenance of the House of Worshi k Shop, which realized sales of $263,905 as of March 1, 1995.

Held a 24-hour prayer vigil for the success of the Race Unity Day walk; held monthly prayer break fasts; commemorated all Holy Days and provided special programs for children; held open meetings to honor Race Unity Day, Universal Children’s Day, United Nations Day, United Nations Human Rights Day, the International Day of Peace and World Religion Day; and collaborated with the Metropolitan Interreligious Initiative to hold a forum session titled “Spirituality and the Real World.”

resented the eleventh annual David Kellum Awards, attended by 150 people, most of whom were not Baha’is.

Conducted a Special Visit Program attended by 79 participants.

Held two monthly firesides in English and Spanish; held a fireside in collaboration with the Spiritual Dey of the Baha’is of Chicago featuring author Olya Roohizadegan; sponsored a weekly introductory class on the Faith; sponsored a weekly course titled “Religion in Baha’i and Comparative Perspectives”; and continued “The Light Exchange” monthly discussion group.

Coordinated instructional and consultative meetings as follows: a planning tea to train local Spiritual Assemblies in assisting with hospitality and programming needs for Holy days and special events at the House of Worship; an annual tea for National Center staff; volunteer training to focus teaching efforts on Baha‘u’llah and His Station.

Convened the Wilmette Interfaith Association for the year and hosted one of its meetings; served on the board of the North Shore Race Unity Task Force; and assumed the major planning role for the annual Walk for Race Unity.

Provided facilities for National Convention, the District Convention for Illinois Northern No. 2B, the Office of the Treasurer’s special visit programs, a Unity Feast, one memorial service and 13 weddings.

EDUCATION

National Education and Schools Office and the Education Task Force

GOAL

To oversee the five permanent schools and institutes and the 36 regional schools committees; to supervise and provide support to the National Education Task Force responsible for creating the Core Curriculum process and training; and to create various curricula as designated by the National Spiritual Assembly, especially for the Destiny of America theme, the New Believers Course, and the Preparing Youth for Marriage and the Raising of Children trainings.

ACTIVITIES

Supervised the activities of the 36 regional schools which held 50 school sessions during the year, attended by approximately 7,000 people.

Designed a New Believers Course in collaboration with the National Teaching Committee and the Office of the Treasurer and conducted four pilot trainings; developed a program and conducted three pilot trainings on Preparing Youth for Marriage and Raising Children; and developed curricula and materials appropriate for various ages based upon the theme ihe Destiny of America” for use at the five permanent Baha’i schools and institutes and the 36 regional schools.

Published a book, Foundations for a Spiritual Education, compiling Baha'i sacred writings on education with specific emphasis on children, and three editions of a newsletter, Forum on Baha'i Education, for schools and teachers, both professional and parochial, with articles on research, courses and news.

Developed and used a set of curriculum strand materials for the spiritual education of children; continued training teachers, parents and community members in the Core Curriculum focusing on children’s education, parenting and race unity with more than 150 trainers and 1,250 teachers trained nationally and hundreds more internationally; trained 30 Race Unity Trainers as part of the Core Curriculum program with a specific focus on children and the oneness of mankind; and developed the Parenting Program of the Core Curriculum, training 30 Parent Facilitators to deliver trainings in the community on parenting and family life.

Developed a video on the role of the Baha’f Faith in race relations in the United States and the impor

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ANNUAL REPORTS

tance of oneness in the spiritual education of children.

Maintained close links between youth programs throughout the country at schools, institutes and workshops in conjunction with the National Teaching Committee office.

‘ook part in developing the curriculum and administrative apparaie for the Wilmette Institute, a program for the systematic academic study of and the development of teachers of the Faith.

Bosch Baha’i School

GOAL

To provide for the spiritual and intellectual growth of the Baha’i community by incorporating the triple theme of the Three Year Plan, as well as the goals of the National Spiritual Assembly, in programs and an environment that encourages participants’ transformation through internalizing and acting upon the moral and spiritual principles of the Faith and to provide local Assembly programs to help with group transformation and the institution’s maturation process.

ACTIVITIES

Offered 30 sessions attended by more than 3,200 people with an 11-week summer session, two fiveday winter sessions, a four-day spring session, and three week-long non-Bahd’{ residential sessions, leaving only four weekends when the facility was notin use. Many sessions included two or more concurrent programs, increasing over-all attendance and use of facilities. New this year were three weekend sessions designed specifically for seekers and new believers at which more than a dozen people declared their belief in Bahd’u’lléh.

Offered for the first time Baha’i Core Curriculum teacher training programs during two week-long sessions and a pilot for an advanced level III teacher training.

Held a number of special-focus sessions addressing the needs and interests of particular groups including a Southeast Asian Leadership Conference, a National Latino Conference, a Chinese Teaching Conference, the fourth Urban LSA Conference, a Pioneering Institute, a Black History Celebration, a Race Unity Weekend, a Women’s Conference, a Marriage Retreat, an Arts and Teaching Weekend, a Health and Healing Symposium and three “Rendezvous of the Soul” weekends.

Continued emphasis on youth programs with four Youth Institutes held in the summer, four Youth Deepening weekends, a deepening weekend for the L.A. Youth Workshop, a Baha'i College Club Weekend, a five-day Youth Service Corps training, and a four-day Children’s Camp. In addition, classes for children and youth were held during all general sessions, offering intensive study of the Baha’f writings and opportunities for service and socialization.

Invited author Olya Rochiadeeay to speak at two weekend sessions in October which subsequently led to her four and a half week traveling teaching tour throughout California, Arizona, Nevada and the Chicago area and resulted in the enrollment of least 95 new believers.

Held four LSA Team Development weekends with between four and eight Assemblies taking part in a series of trust-building activities with time provided for inter-Assembly and individual Assembly consultation.

Incorporated service projects for the school during sessions, securing more than 20,000 volunteer hours.

Provided a venue for nearby communities for large Baha’{ meetings and Holy Day observances and rented facilities for residential gatherings including two week-long Elderhostel programs and a six-day Gangaji Retreat.

Renovated the Bosch Library to more appropriately store and display the more than 9,000 books donated in the last year (the Marzieh Gail and Rabbani Trust collections have been added to the David Hofman collection) and began efforts to use a modified Library of Congress cataloging system.

Projected revenues of more than $271,000 for the year as of March 1, 1995, up Spprodimaey 7 percent over last year. Revenues from the Bookshop/ Cafe increased approximately 20 percent to exceed $150,000.

Began construction of a new $300,000 classroom building in August, using more than $33,000 in ear marked contributions received during the year in addition to the approximately $120,000 already on hand. Upgraded cabins, including roof and foundation renovations and repairs, without drawing on the National Fund by using contributions earmarked for the Bosch Cabin Renovation Fund.

Green Acre Baha’i School

GOAL

To provide an environment and educative process that fosters intellectual growth, social development and spiritual transformation in accordance with the goals of the Three Year Plan and the vision of ‘Abdu’l-Baha for the future of Green Acre.

ACTIVITIES

Engaged in a year-long celebration of “100 Years for Peace” to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the founding by Sarah Jane Farmer of the oldest Baha‘i school in America and the raising of the first known peace flag in the world. Highlighting the celebration was the reopening of Sarah Farmer Inn ata dedication ceremony marking the achievements of Green Acre‘s first hundred years, attended by members of the Continental Board of Counselors, the National Spiritual Assembly, and 1,500 guests. The opening of the Inn ended a $1.3 million restoration

roject begun in 1989 of extensive renovation to the 104-year-old building’s interior and exterior and improvements to the grounds. The local town of Eliot,

laine, in honor of Green Acre’s 100th anniversary, adopted the theme “World Peace” for its annual Festival Days celebration. The Green Acre Peace Flag was raised in the town park, the Green Acre Children’s Choir gave several performances, and more than 100 non-Baha‘f guests were welcomed to a special open house and buffet dinner at Sarah Farmer Inn.

Welcomed more than 3,000 adults and children to programs based on the Destiny of America theme including classes on the Kitdb-i-Aqdas, the Tablets of the Divine Plan, teaching, the equality of women and men, race unity, marriage enrichment, families, personal transformation, and community development.

Held teacher-training sessions for the Core Curriculum for the spiritual education of children, a New Believers course, and an intensive seven-day Youth Institute. :

Hosted a Pioneer Training Institute and Youth Service Corps training; a Haj Mehdi Arjmand Fellowship Scripture Conference; several one-day seminars; Nineteen Day Feasts and Holy Day observances; a funeral, weddings and other community events including two “Picnic on the Piscataqua” gatherings; and provided rental facilities to non-Baha’{ professional organizations.

Continued the Green Acre Children’s Chorus as a social and economic development program in the local community for children, further developing its repertoire and performance skills, attracting several new non-Baha’is to its membership, and holding weekly rehearsals and giving public performances.

Provided training and service opportunities to program participants and volunteers who supplied more than 12,000 hours of volunteer service. Increased the permanent staff from three to six fulltime positions including a program coordinator, resident caretaker and food service manager.

Louhelen Baha’i School

GOAL

To support the educational goals of the Three Year Plan by emphasizing intense study of the Sacred Writings, expanding the human resources of the Faith, promoting race unity and the advancement of women, and supporting the development of the National Teacher Training Center at Louhelen in collaboration with the National Education Task Force.

ACTIVITIES

Sponsored sessions and conferences based on the Destiny of America theme including thorough study of the writings of Baha’u’llah, especially the Kitdb-iAqdas; strengthening marriage and family life; children’s, junior youth and youth education and training; and sustained investigation of the spiritual foundations of racial unity.

Offered sessions specifically designed to nurture and strengthen the spiritual and practical foundations of marriage and family life including six ses sions incorporating age-related activities encouraging “whole family” participation, and sessions for parents, married couples, and youth preparing for marriage.

Collaborated with the Auxiliary Board in sponsoring a weekend development workshop for members of local Spiritual Assemblies.

Sponsored a women’s conference to nurture women’s spiritual development and to help develop the necessary attitudes and behaviors in women and men that lead to full partnership and equality.

Facilitated the accelerating development of the Core Curriculum for Spr Education by supporting the activities of the National Teacher Training Center and its various programs in teacher training, parent facilitator training and race unity education.

Continued efforts to assure that the children’s and youth programs at Louhelen are dntepiated fully with the Core Curriculum for Spiritual Education, providing a solid base for all children and youth programming toward the goal of producing the first prejudice-free generation.

Assured that faculty representing non-dominant cultural backgrounds were prominent in Louhelen programs at all age levels.

Provided in all programs various levels of training in the attitudes and skills of serving others and encouraged all propreny participants to reflect on ways. to serve their home communities more effectively.

Provided training that led to the contribution of more than 1,500 hours of volunteer service to the school including the services of three Youth Service Corps volunteers and one adult year-of-service volunteer.

Collaborated for the third consecutive year with the Mayor’s Office, the Flint Community Schools, the Flint Urban League, the Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of Flint and other Flint, Michigan, community groups on the City of Flint’s annual Race Unity Day activities, providing support and human resources.

Pursued a sustained advertising campaign in the Michigan Chronicle, Detroit's largest African-American newspaper, to increase African-American use of Louhelen facilities. Non-Baha’f groups in which African-Americans are predominant are the largest and most rapidly growing segment of Louhelen’s rental constituency, with “word-of-mouth” referrals generating increased interest.

Embarked on expanding the school facilities through use of increased voluntary contributions to reduce the need to purchase services from contractors or ask for subsidies from the National Fund and to create additional yevenusproducing, programs. Nearly $150,000 in services were contributed to the school. The development of the Louhelen Bookstore Cafe and expansion of the Twin Oaks Dining Room promise to generate revenues through increased use

y Baha’is and rental of the facilities to outside organizations.

Louis G. Gregory Baha’i Institute and WLGI Radio

GOAL

To serve as a resource center for training Baha’is to enable them to become more actively involved in promoting the Faith and developing strong communities in South Carolina, thereby bringing about “entry by troops,” and to provide radio programming that will help deepen Baha’{’s, provide support for teaching efforts, and help uplift local communities.

ACTIVITIES

Hosted the ninth annual Peace Fest at the Louis G. Gregory Baha'i Institute, a two and one-half day program with more than 800 in attendance; hosted and co-sponsored the Louis G. Gregory / Magdalene Carney Teaching Initiative; and co-sponsored, with the South Carolina Department of Mental Health, the third annual “Enabling and Supporting the Development of Black Males” conference.

Held sessions of the South Carolina Summer and Winter schools, each lasting three and one-half days and featuring deepening ceases for children, youth and adults; a Black Men’s gathering; monthly new believers deepenings; and weekly firesides, deepenings, worship services, children’s classes and youth workshop deepenings.

Hosted a meeting for assistants to the Auxiliary

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ANNUAL REPORTS

Board; a Southeast Workshop Coordinators session in collaboration with the Auxiliary Board; and four local Spiritual Assembly community retreats.

Sponsored a six-week summer academy; Advanced, Junior Youth, Youth and Children’s Academies: Baha’ Youth Service Corps training; a Pioneer Training Institute; Bah4’{ Youth Leadership and Junior Youth Leadership weekends; and 10 special events and anniversaries during the year.

Formed the Louis G. Gregory Institute Gospel Workshop for teaching and deepening.

Acquired additional property and a building for use by WLGI Radio.

Broadcast daily devotions each morning and evening including a “Daily Pearl” quote from the sacred texts and the short obligatory prayer; music containing quotations from the Baha‘ writings; spots highlighting race unity and music promoting racial harmony; a series promoting African-American culture; special programs celebrating the Martin Luther King jr holidaye a youth program, “Street Talk”; a Baha‘i current affairs program, “Focus”; a women’s program, “Sister to Sister”; a series of programs about the election and functioning of the institution of the local Spiritual Assembly; a community calendar; and broadcasts titled “African-Americans in Baha’i History,” “Black Women: A Portrait of Dignity,” and “Black Achievers.”

Held regular WLGI staff deepenings and trained 18 new volunteers using the sacred writings as a basis for the training; trained 14 youth and junior youth as on-air staff enabled staff to take part in area teaching projects including the election of 30 local Spiritual Assemblies; and encouraged staff to make presentations at pioneering conferences.

Native American Baha’i Institute

GOAL

To develop local educational projects related to the indigenous culture, focusing primarily in the Navajo and Hopi District, as a means for teaching the Faith, and to develop teaching materials for use on the Reservation.

ACTIVITIES

Hosted various deepenings and conferences including Women and Men’s conferences; a Mending the Wings conference; a Homefront Pioneering Institute; a Family Fellowship weekend; a Uniting the Hearts in Navajo-Hopi Land meeting; Baha’f Youth Workshop training; a Winter Cultural Institute for children and youth; a Summer Children’s Institute; and Core Curriculum training for district children’s class teachers.

Continued weekly overnight Nobility Classes for local school children and youth to study Baha’f teachings and Navajo culture and to receive help with their school studies.

Helped foster the creation of a Baha’f Youth Workshop, now sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahd’is of Gallup and supported by Native American Baha’f Institute staff, and sponsored trips by the Bah4’f Youth Workshop to the Bosch Baha’i School and Los Angeles.

Submitted for review to the Department of Modern Languages at Northern Arizona University prayers translated into the Navajo language.

Sponsored a booth at the Navajo Nation Fair in Window Rock, Arizona, and provided Baha’f prayers translated into the Navajo language to interested passersby.

Sent two staff to the Louis G. Gregory Baha’f Institute for one month to strengthen the ties between the two sister institutes.

PROPERTIES

House of Worship Restoration

GOAL

To adopt, initiate and sustain a well-defined, phased plan for restoring the Mother Temple of the West and to establish a comprehensive program for conserving the House of Worship over the next millennium.

ACTIVITIES

Received several awards following the completion of the 10-year Temple Restoration Project honoring the project’s outstanding innovation and its advancement of the state-of-the-art in quality, craftsmanship,

engineering and construction technology. The awards include: Preservation Project of the Year from The Landmarks Preservation Council of Illinois; Historic Preservation Award from the Village of Wilmette, Illinois; Repair Project of the Year from The International Concrete Repair Institute; Award of Merit from The Structural Engineers. Association of Illinois; and First Place Award in Advanced Construction Technology from The Construction Specifications Institute and McGraw-Hill’s Construction Information Group.

Increased ongoing conservation activities for the House of Worship by adding a concrete conservator craftsman to the Fulttime team of architectural conservator and engineering technicians and by increasing the number of youth working as conservation technicians in the summer who help with documentation, inspections, cleaning, painting, bird damage prevention and concrete repairs.

Developed a strategic plan for conservation; conducted extensive training; organized drawings, files and samples; and established a materials laboratory in the workshop.

Enlarged the original elevator shaft and built an elevator for the disabled to gain easy access to the auditorium of the House of Worship.

Completed the installation of reinforcements for the auditorium’s floor structure, constructed originally in 1922, that oP the structural system of the Foundation Hall ceiling dome and beams throughout the lower level, providing appropriate factors of safety based upon a more advanced understanding of reinforced concrete structures gained through research over the last few decades.

Continued to provide technical support for preserving the Shrine of the Bab, other structures in the Holy Land, and the House of Worship in Kampala, Uganda.

Baha’i Properties Office

GOAL

To oversee the maintenance and development of all nationally owned Baha’i properties in the United States, to advise and consult with the National Spiritual Assembly on the acquisition and disposal of such properties, and to provide similar support to local eeblies on property acquisition and/or development.

ACTIVITIES

Provided routine maintenance to National Center propesties including window washing, painting, landscaping, and washing the ornamental steps at the House of Worship.

Began inralaeng an underground sprinkler system to service the House of Worship, the Haziratu’lQuds and the Properties Office buildings.

Purchased a computerized locking system and rekeyed locks to bring all facilities under a tracked coding system.

Overhauled the boiler systems at the Baha’i National Center and the House of Worship; installed a highly efficient, cost-effective cooling tower for the air conditioning system at the National Center; and replaced radiators in the House of Worship.

Constructed a computer room for the Management Information Services department at the National Center; remodeled the choir room and Activities Offices at the House of Worship; began renovating the dining area in the Properties Office; installed new signs for closing the House of Worship to reduce the potential for injury people during inclement weather; and helped the Public Safety Office install a new security system.

Trained staff on a computerized Maintenance Management System to paprove work flow and help reduce maintenance and repair costs for all facilities.

Completed the first two stages of the Wilhelm Log Cabin project, rendering the cabin structurally soun and acquiring a building occupancy use permit.

Inspected estate and gift properties in Alaska, Kentucky, California and EEN and listed five properties for sale with real estate brokers, three of which sold, raising more than $50,000 for the National Fund.

PUBLISHING

Baha’i Encyclopedia

GOAL

To advance Baha'i scholarship by publishing a twovolume Short Encyclopedia of the Bahd't Faith that defines Baha’{ belief and practice for the general public.

ACTIVITIES

Secured and edited 90 percent of the articles for the first volume (A-J). A number of questions from the Universal House of Justice about the factual correctness, methodology, tone, audience and style of the Encyclopedia led to a November 1994 Editorial Board meeting at which a letter was drafted to the National Spiritual Assembly proposing ways to deal with any concerns. Until the issues are resolved, the copy editors have suspended work on articles and the production manager has suspended work on design and production. Due to time constraints and professional demands, the general editor has resigned.

Baha’i Publishing Trust

GOAL

To support teaching and consolidating by publishing the authoritative texts, introductory and historical works, literature for children and youth, and audio-visual materials; to promote the use of Baha’f literature; and to foster the translation, publication and distribution of Baha’f literature in the Kazakh and Ukrainian languages.

ACTIVITIES

Published three new literature titles: Tablets of Baha'u'llah (new hard cover edition); Life, Death and Immortality: The Journey of the Soul (soft cover); and Bahd’u'lléh: God’s Messenger to Humanity (pamphlet). Also published the 152 B.E. wall ealenaay pocket calendar, and 1995 datebook.

Reprinted Tablets of Bahd’u'lléh (pocket size); Epistle to the Son of the Wolf (hard cover); Gleanings from the Writings of Baha'u'llah (hard cover); The Hidden Words (hard and soft covers); The Kitab-i-[qan (hard cover); The Seven Valleys and the Four Valleys (soft cover); Some Answered Questions (hard cover); God Passes Bi (hard cover); Individual Rights and Freedoms; Bahd’t Prayers (hard cover); The Covenant; The Significance of Bahd'w'llah’s Revelation; The Vision of Race Unity; Youth Can Move the World; and The Word of God.

Began or continued editorial work on the following projects: Messages from the Universal House of Justice: 1963-86; So Great an Honor (a replacement for On Becoming a Baha't); The Promised Day is Come (new pocket-size edition); Tablets of the Divine Plan; and a three-in-one volume of Shoghi Effendi’s works containing Baha'i Administration, Messages to America and Citadel of Faith.

Helped other institutions, agencies and individuals by coordinating production work on Foundations for a Spiritual Education (for the Education and Schools Office), Models of Unity II: Atlanta (for the Secretariat), The Open Door (for Erich Reich Enterpaises), labels and brochures for The Spiritual Revo ution (for the Spiritual Assembly of San Francisco), the Xhosa translation of Baha'i Prayers (for South Africa), the packaging for Equality, Oneness, Unity (for the Secretariat), labels and jacket for The Vineyard of the Lord (video tape for the Baha’i World Center), and the Bahd’i Newsreel (for Media Services).

Submitted a proposal, approved by the National Spiritual Assembly, for the reorganization of Baha'i Publications and the formalization of Baha'i Communications. Reorganization began with hiring a Publications Coordinator and developing the Editorial, Production Services, Media Services, Distribution Service and Subscriber Services departments under an integrated structure.

Provided administrative support to World Order magazine and to the Baha'i Encyclopedia project and provided administrative assistance to the task force that planned the 1994 celebrations for the centennial anniversary of the establishment of the Baha’f Faith in North America and the sesquicentennial anniversary of the Declaration of the Bab.

Monitored the activities of an off-site desk responsible for coordinating the publication of Baha’ literature in the Kazakh and Ukrainian languages and for working with the relevant Regional Spiritual Assemblies that increasingly have made their own

[Page 26]PIN)

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translations but that need financial assistance in publishing them.

Baha’i Distribution Service

GOAL

To promote the distribution and use of Baha’f publications and materials at the lowest prices possible and to develop further a solid business structure.

ACTIVITIES

Achieved, as of March 1, 1995, year-to-date net sales totaling $1,281,370; year-end sales are projected to be approximately $1,600,000 compared to $1,757,000 in actual sales in 1993-94. Total inventory is valued at $450,845.

Acquired the inventory and operations of Baha'i Visual Services, adding more than 200 titles in several languages and formats to the listing of previously distributed audio-visual titles.

Established 2,963 new customer accounts, contributing to an active customer base of more than 12,485 accounts, and filled approximately 18,000 orders (down from 23,000 last year) for a total of more than 334,800 items (an increase of 18 percent over last year).

Produced a four-color catalog for distribution to 48,000 Baha'i households and produced two 16-page full-color catalogs—one for Baha'i teaching and deepening materials and the other in cooperation with Oneworld Publications. Additionally, published 33 pages of advertising in The American Baha't and printed more than 30,000 price lists and 100,000 fliers for insertion into outgoing orders.

Coordinated sales efforts at several conferences including the Green Lake Conference, the Florida Reunion, the Florida Flame, the Association for Baha’f Studies conference, and the 85th National Convention.

Brilliant Star

GOAL

To produce six issues of Brilliant Star magazine per year, designed to serve the needs of English-speaking children of all ages by confirming their Baha’i identity and helping them to develop as Baha’ teachers, and one special edition for summer schools. Brilliant Star is also designated as an educational resource for teachers of children.

ACTIVITIES

Produced six regular issues this year: Starship: The Life of the Bab, Putting the Vision Into Action, In the Darkest Hour, Press On to Meet the Dawn, The First

. Prejudice-Free Generation, and The Door to the Future. Brilliant Star staff handled the entire editorial function. An Advisory Board provided visionary support, but had no editorial function, and a Creative Task Force offered ongoing editorial support but did not meet as an independent editorial body.

Produced a special edition for 1994, From Gnats to Eagles, for the Education and Schools Office to use at permanent and regional schools last summer, and a special edition for 1995 on the spiritual destiny of the American Baha’ community.

Collaborated with the National Education Task Force to provide teacher packets for all those trained in the Core Curriculum and also included educational activities to support Core Curriculum strands as well as curriculum-referenced indices for teachers in every issue of Brilliant Star.

Produced “Activities” pages in 10 issues of The American Baha'i using reprints from the magazine.

Collaborated with Subscriber Services to increase the quality of subscription service and to develop new subscriber software for implementation next year, and continued distribution of all non-subscription sales through the Baha’{ Distribution Service.

Periodicals Office

GOAL

To produce 10 issues of The American Baha'i in a timely and economical manner while presenting news of the progress of the Cause in the United States and abroad to the American Bahdé’{ community to inspire and guide its efforts to win the goals of the Thee Year Plan.

ACTIVITIES

In response to increasing demands on the National Fund and its growing deficit, reduced by nearly half the number of issues of The American Baha'i to be produced. Starting in January 1995, the paper was

to be issued every other Bahd’i month with one special issue each year, making a total of 10 issues instead of the 19 produced each year for the past three years. There was no paper in January; the first issue piblished in calendar year 1995 was dated February

. It was followed by a special issue on teaching and the Funds dated March 2, after which the everyother-month cycle began with the issue dated April 9, 1995.

Covered on-site events including the National Convention; the sesquicentennial observance in Wilmette of the Declaration of the Bab; the Baha’i History Conference, subtitled “A Celebration of the Centenary of the Baha’i Faith in North America”; the gala celebration, sponsored by the National Spiritual Assembly at Navy Pier in Chicago, of the 100th anniversary of the establishment of the Faith in North America; the 100th anniversary observance of the founding of Green Acre Baha’f School in Eliot, Maine; the annual Conference of the Association for Baha'i Studies in Cambridge, Massachusetts; the ninth annual Peace Fest at the Louis G. Gregory Baha’t Institute in Hemingway, South Carolina; the second annual conference of the Rabbani Charitable Trust in Orlando, Florida; the National Youth Conference in Phoenix, Arizona; and the annual events in Atlanta marking the anniversary of the birth of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Reported on other significant events, including

rogress in building the Arc on Mount Carmel; the letter dated May 19, 1994, sent by the Universal House of Justice to the U.S. National Spiritual Assembly in response to the National Assembly's meeting in March 1994 with the Supreme Institution of the Faith; the address by the Hand of the Cause of God Amatu’l-Baha Rihiyyih Khanum at the World Forestry Charter Gathering in London; the unanimous vote of the U.S. House of Representatives to condemn the persecution of Baha’is in Iran; testimony by the National Spiritual Assembly before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in support of USS. ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination; letters to President Clinton (and his response) from members of Congress urging him to continue U.S. leadership in the effort to “emancipate” the Baha‘i community in Iran; the opening in New York City of the National Spiritual Assembly’s new Office of Public Information; the brutal slayings of three Baha'is in the South African community of Ciskei; the Army of Light teaching campaign by Baha’i youth; the “Vanguard of the Dawning” race unity conference in Chicago; the Magdalene M. Carney teaching campaign in South Carolina; and the National Spiritual Assembly’s 11th annual David Kellum Awards program.

Subscriber Services

GOAL

To fulfill subscriptions, to distribute and promote The American Baha'i (foreign subscribers), Brilliant Star, One Country, Art Matters, Herald of the South, and World Order magazines, and to provide attendant services.

ACTIVITIES

Assumed responsibility for distributing to subscribers The Baha'i Newsreel, formerly distributed by Baha’i Visual Services, and furnished Baha'i periodicals to 3,112 subscribers.

Maintained the subscriber database for Art Matters, produced this year for the first time by the National Arts Task Force.

World Order Editorial Board

GOAL

To publish World Order magazine, a direct teaching and deepening effort of the National Spiritual Assembly focusing on topics of broad social concern from a Baha’{ perspective.

ACTIVITIES

Published the Summer 1994 issue devoted to medicine and the environment; the Fall 1994 issue devoted to world peace and the elimination of racial prejudice; and the Winter 1994 issue devoted to consultation, the environment and sustainable development.

Edited for publication the Spring 1995 issue on the prosperity of humankind and the equality of women and men including two papers presented at the conference on Women in Baha'i Perspective, and began

26

THe AmeriCAN BAHA'I

preparing the Summer and Fall 1995 issues which also will feature papers presented at the Women in Baha'i Perspective conference and essays on the elimination of racial prejudice.

Worked with the promotional arm of the Baha’{ Distribution Service and with Subscriber Services to promote World Order magazine and to increase its subscriber base.

SERVICES

National Baha’i Archives

GOAL

To help and support the National Spiritual Assembly, its agencies and the American Baha’i community by maintaining archival records and materials, providing research assistance, and educating and assisting local Spiritual Assemblies in the proper care and management of local records and archives.

ACTIVITIES

Acquired two original tablets written by ‘Abdu’lBaha and 21 original letters written by or on behalf of the Guardian; made three inquiries to Bahd‘fs concerning missing letters from the Guardian; and accounted for 1,724 dates from a list of approximately 7,200 dates received by the Baha’f World Center of letters of the Guardian.

Expanded a collection of extracts on various subjects from the Archives holdings of Guardian’s letters; the collection currently consists of 7,586 extracts in 1,475 categories.

Prepared for transfer to the Baha’{ World Center 42 recently acquired original volumes and notebooks containing drafts and transcripts of tablets and talks of ‘Abdu’l-Baha.

Sent biographical sketches of noteworthy AfricanAmerican, Asian, Hispanic and Native American Baha‘is to 17 local Bahai communities for use in proclamation and teaching activities.

Answered 310 research requests including 97 from. the National Spiritual Assembly and its agencies, 40 from other Baha’f institutions and 173 from individuals, answering 90 percent of them within 10 business days.

Assisted individuals including 20 scholars and Baha'i National Center staff from 11 offices to research subjects such as African-American Baha'is, Atlanta Baha'is, Tahitian Baha'is, Robert Hayden, Zia Bagdadi and Lua Getsinger, and to locate historical photographs.

Sent information about local records and archives to 20 local communities in 15 states. Archives staff visited the Cincinnati and Milwaukee Baha’{ Archives and consulted with their local archivists.

Took part in activities of the Institute for Baha’{ Studies including planning for the Baha’i History Conference and Conference on Women in Baha’i Perspective.

Developed four archival displays, conducted three tours of the Archives and an Archives open house and relics display for the National Convention.

Prepared computer indices for various collections including 37 manuscript collections and the audiovisual collection (4,005 audio tapes).

Recorded circulation activity for the National Baha'i Reference Library. Staff checked out 191 books and cassettes from the library.

Increased the National Baha’i Reference Library collections by 7,182 items covering 1,301 titles; the total volume of holdings is now 55,230 items.

Processed 707 historical photographs and Re: vided publishers and scholars with 159 prints. Also provided 5,575 photocopies of historical documents.

Received a total of 232 accessions including 146 boxes of Baha’f National Center records, nine new collections of personal papers and 22 additions to existing collections (including papers of Lorol Luther, Lawrence Hautz, Beth Newport, Doris McKay, Joyce Lyon Dahl, Sarah Pereira, Soo Fouts and Anna Stevenson); made 16 inquiries about archival material desired for acquisition; and arranged and opened for research two collections of personal

apers, the Doris Holley Papers and Edwin Mattoon

apers.

Arranged or added to 73 Bahai National Center record series, consisting of 152 boxes, including files from the Office of the Secretary, National Teaching Committee, Office of Pioneering, District Teaching

[Page 27]“AzamAr B.E. 152 ¢ Mav 17,1995 27

ANNUAL REPOR

Committees and the National Baha’i Archives.

Microfilmed, as part of the Archives preservation program, Office of the Treasurer ledgers, 1909-1962; Green Acre Fellowship and Baha’i Temple Unity minutes; New York City and New Jersey early community records; and Juliet Thompson correspondence. Two conservators started work on unbinding volumes of documents from the Ahmad Sohrab Papers. Photocopied, on acid-free paper, 700 pages of newspaper clippings.

Baha’i Home

GOAL

To serve the community as a dependency of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkar, providing residential care for elderly people.

ACTIVITIES

Provided care to 21 residents, earning approximately $301,000 in revenues.

Worked with an advisory board appointed by the National Spiritual Assembly to assess the potential of expanding the Baha’i Home and for developing plans to enable the Home to become self-supporting.

Produced a dignified brochure and ongoing advertisements in appropriate metropolitan marketing media.

Converted office space into an additional resident room, increasing revenue potential by $19,200; converted other spaces to better accommodate staff and resident needs; repainted seven residential rooms, a sun porch, and the men’s and women’s rest rooms; and installed e-mail service and a fax modem on office computer equipment and a telephone system equiped with voice mail.

Expanded management coverage of the facility from five to seven days per week and initiated a program of video-taping staff training sessions to accommodate disparate staff schedules.

Completed CPR qualification for staff and required tuberculosis testing for all residents and staff.

Consolidated purchasing through a single brokerage to obtain up to 15 percent discounts on food and supplies.

Continued including observations of Baha'i Holy Days into the residents’ activities program; invited residents and staff to take part in firesides and activities at the House of Worship; and provided to residents, their families and staff information about the Faith as it applies to the management and operation of the Baha’i Home.

Baha’i Service for the Blind

GOAL

To provide the literature of the Faith in mediums such as cassette tapes, Braille and large-print formats, for purchase and/or loan, for those unable to use standard print due to physical or mental handicaps.

ACTIVITIES

Maintained a lending library of materials for the blind and managed to remain financially independent of assistance from the National Fund.

Advertised the Faith in many world-wide publications for the blind.

Human Resources

GOAL

To attend to the human resource needs of the National Spiritual Assembly and its employees and to serve as a resource for coordinating activities among the agencies, institutes and departments of the National Spiritual Assembly.

ACTIVITIES

Deferred $69,202 through a Section 125 Plan with an estimated tax savings to the National Spiritual Assembly of $26,055 through employee and employer taxes.

Implemented a new Group Term Life Insurance Plan for all employees that allows insurance coverage for employees, their spouses and children at no cost to the National Spiritual Assembly.

Hired 89 people, including summer staff, 81 of whom were hired without incurring relocation expenses, and terminated 80 people including summer staff.

Coordinated a training seminar entitled Seven Habits of Effective People, offered and conducted by Bruce Cognan of the Covey Leadership Program at no cost

to the National Spiritual Assembly.

Saved the National Fund $424,235 in expenses through the use of volunteers who contributed 65.267 hours of service including volunteer hours provided to the various schools and institutes.

Management Information Services

GOAL

To provide services in office automation (personal computers and laser printers), network services (electronic mail, word processing, group scheduling, membership database querying, and reporting and printer sharing), document management (image processing and file room automation), and administrative systems support (membership, records, financial and accounting functions and mail services) to support the operation of the Baha’f National Center, its associated departments and agencies as well as to assist in the improved productivity of offices and individuals through computer and information technologies by streamlining and automating work and providing faster access to information.

ACTIVITIES

Provided the Baha’f National Center Bulletin Board System (BNCBBS) to 2,220 users in North America; made available selected Baha’f sacred writings for downloading; and arranged for compilations from the Universal House of Justice to be added for access by the community.

Installed new telephone systems at the Hazfratu’lQuds, the Baha’f Publishing Trust and Baha’i Home.

Sent and received 55,000 electronic mail messages during the year and converted remaining Dialcom electronic mail users to cc:Mail at a cost savings of $12,000 per year.

Completed approximately 3,000 service calls through PC Support Services, providing training, trouble-shooting problems, maintaining systems and upgrading hardware and software.

Processed 24,354 address changes, 1,534 name changes and identification card replacements, 432 administrative corrections, 962 transfers into the American Baha’f community and 696 transfers out of the community; verified and processed 1,410 local Spiritual Assembly formations; and recorded 458 deaths.

Sent out 1,193,930 pieces of mail through Mail Services. Continued use of Zip+4 and bar-coding resulted in a savings of $61,000 to the National Fund.

Implemented a new registration system for National Convention that reduced significantly the time required to process pre-registrations and facilitated the process of on-site registration at Convention; completed the first phase of an on-line system to automate information for the Office of Pioneering for faster access and better reporting capabilities; and began designing a new Subscriber Services system to increase productivity and improve customer service.

Implemented new local area networks to serve the Baha'i House of Worship, the Properties Office and Baha’j Publishing Trust, and expanded the local area network at the Baha’{ National Center.

Developed and initiated a program to train Baha’i National Center staff to use MS-DOS, Microsoft Windows, word processing, electronic mail and group scheduling software.

Completed 85 percent of the input of membership files using laser disk and imaging technology, allowing on-line access to all membership files already in the system.

Baha’i Media Services

GOAL

To expand media production capacities to serve the interests of the Faith both nationally and internationally; to increase the availability and use of video materials in languages other than English; and to increase the capacity to generate broadcast quality video productions.

ACTIVITIES Provided sound, lighting, staging and video suport for the sesquicentennial celebration of the Decaration of the Bab and the centenary of the establishment of the Baha’f Faith in North America. Scenes from a Family Album, a video documentary portrait of the American Baha’i community, was produced for the centenary celebration at Navy Pier, was later used at similar gatherings in other places, and was

broadcast nationally in Canada.

Conducted restoration and maintenance work on the multi-image systems and programs presented at the House of Worship; recorded the proceedings of the Baha’f History Conference, the Haj Mehdi Arjmand Scripture Conference, the Conference on Women in Baha’ Perspective, and the 85th National Convention; video taped parts of the American Indian meeting held at the National Center with the goal of producing programs to help strengthen the teaching work by and among Indian people; documented successful patterns of teaching activities in a program titled Vision in Action: A View from the Grassroots; compiled the SITA training video for pioneers and traveling teachers going to sensitive international teaching areas; produced a teaching and

romotional video on the Chicago Baha’i Youth

lorkshop in conjunction with a story for the Bahd’i Newsreel; recorded and distributed taped messages from the National Spiritual Assembly sent to the American Baha’i community for Nineteen Day Feasts; and provided for translations of videos in the French, Spanish, Persian, Japanese, Chinese, German, Portuguese, Hindi, Russian, Albanian and Icelandic languages.

Responded to requests for footage and programs including: Piovidlng footage of the Holy Places at the World Center that were incorporated into a National Norwegian Television special entitled Carmel Eulogies; providing Seat of God's Throne for airing in its entirety on Dutch National Television after the network itself did a complete translation; providing footage to EL-AL Airlines for incorporation in an inflight video; and providing footage for a segment of aspecial documentary being produced for the UN50 commemorations in San Francisco.

Released Baha'i Newsreel, Vol. 5, No. 1 in January, covering activities during the previous nine months in more than 30 communities in 15 countries, and prepared a special edition of Bahd’i Newsreel, titled Profiles in Social Development, for the United Nations Summit on Social pave opment held in Copenhagen in March 1995. Newsreel production was intermittent and had to be suspended for various periods throughout the year due to lack of staff.

Suspended or delayed several major activities during the past year due to lack of staff and the condition of the National Fund. The video and tape library was closed for all but emergency access for the entire year; however, 400 new video tapes were entered into the library database with volunteer help. Two normally scheduled editions of Baha’i Newsreel were not produced, and plans for a documentary Pevera on the work at the World Center, initiated

y the Universal House of Justice, were placed on hold. Media Services also was unable to respond to a request from the Baha’f International Community to help produce a special program for the upcoming Women’s Conference in Beijing, China.

Meeting Planning and Travel Services

GOAL

To provide the National Spiritual Assembly and its committees and agencies meeting and travel planning services that assure cost-effective quality.

ACTIVITIES

Provided regularly full support (air and land transportation, hotel accommodations and meals) for meetings of the National Spiritual Assembly; the National Teaching Committee; the Office of the Treasurer’s Special Visitors; the Latin, Chinese, Education, and Fund Development Task Forces; the World Order Editorial Board; the school administrators; and the Planning and Coordinating Committee.

Arranged site contracts for the 86th Baha'i National Convention and the Persian Arts Festival; collaborated with the National Teaching Committee in planning and coordinating the Army of Light Youth Conference in Phoenix, Arizona; helped with arrangements for the sesquicentennial celebration of the Declaration of the Bab and the centenary of the establishment of the Faith in North America; and provided hotel arrangements and meal services for the Baha’i History Conference, the Haj Mehdi Arjmand Scripture Conference, the Conference on Women in Baha’{ Perspective, the Native American Conference, Pioneer Training Institutes and other meetings.

Issued 497 airline tickets through the office at a

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NUAL REPORTS

cost avoidance of more than $570,000 and gained a three percent refund on total sales for the National Fund.

Public Safety Office

GOAL

To provide for the safety and security of staff and all properties including the Baha’i House of Worship, the Baha’ National Center offices, the Baha’{ Publishing Trust, the Baha’i Home, the Hazfratu’lQuds and other local properties owned by the National Spiritual erly

ACTIVITIES

Implemented a preventive security program using alarm and video monitoring equipment to observe activities at all properties in addition to providing staff to patrol regularly all locations.

Installed video cameras and monitors to allow observation of the 360-degree perimeter of the House of Worship grounds a its front and rear entrances, the PNT lot at the Baha’f National Center, and the beach and parking lot areas adjacent to the Haziratu’l-Quds.

Installed a new alarm system at the Haziratu’lQuds; updated systems at the House of Worship, National Center and Baha’{ Publishing Trust; and installed electronic access controls in the Media Services studios.

Provided training for all officers to assure proper operation of all monitoring, alarm, access and other security systems and that proper observation skills, situation evaluations and pro-active incident prevention techniques are maintained; created revised guidelines for duty rounds, inspections and reporting; and provides information to National Center staff to generate efficient support of security measures.

Received more than 1,000 hours of volunteer service from an individual Bah4’i for the installation and maintenance of alarm, computer and video systems, and hundreds of additional hours from two other Bahai electronics and computer technicians who installed, programmed and maintained alarm, video and security computer equipment.

Acquired five new multi-channel, high quality, hand-held radios to replace 15-year-old, poorly performing radios.

Committee & Task Force Membership List 1994-1995

National Teaching Committee Ken Bowers, Dawn Haghighi, Sylvester Scott, Patricia Steele

Regional American Indian Teaching Committees

Central States—East

Payam Nadimi, Kathy Racki, Geraldine Rivera, Janice Rosado, Susan Senchuk

Central States—West

Tim Crawford, Brad Defender, Sharon Hick, Cletus Lawrence, Vernon Longie, Willard Malebear, Blair Nichols, Edwin Roberts, Phyllis Sheridan

Northeast States

Francis Dodge, Tom Garland, Ferida Khanjani, Ina McNeil, V. Douglas Phillips

Northwestern States

Kizzenkeea Davis, Roberta Charles, Ferris Paisano, Stefany Tyler, Lorintha Warwick, Dwight Williams

Southern States—East

Jullius Fuller, Loretta Garcia, Michael Hughey, Robert Morrow, Peggy Oceola

Southern States—West

Fuad Akhtar-Khavari, Mike Bigler, Valerie Dana, Sara Gustavus, Andrenea King, Dennis Wahkinney

State Teaching Committees

Arizona

Larry Bucknell, Gwendolyn Calhoun, Ricardo Jaramillo, Sina Mowzoon, Monte Yellowhorse

Florida

Covey Cantville, Vicentee Ferguson, Bill Massey, Rick Miller, Harriet Stafford, Sue St. Clair

Georgia

Marco Brotto, Patsy Gailey, Nasif Habeeb-ullah, Jacqueline Konan, Natasha Naderi, Naysan Naderi

Northern California

Sean Gallagher, Afshin Khasra, Jennifer Muratore,

Shastri Purushotma

North Carolina

Alex Briber, Scott Koehler, Sandra Jean Miles, Robert Tansik

Oregon

Rachel Greco, Bobette Heern, Linda Spiering, Lydia McCarter, Claudia McDermott, Jack Stone, David Young

Southern California

Richard Andre, Alicia Diaz, Leon Ferguson, Teresa Langness, Kathy Peterson, Muhtadia Rice, James Schechter

South Carolina Coordinating Committee

Elizabeth Haynes, Debbie Jackson, Alonzo Nesmith, Moses Richardson, Ursula Richardson

Texas

Lupita Ahangarzadeh, Ajit Giani, Jeanette Hedayati, Steve King, Gwendolyn Pendleton, Jesse Villagomez

Washington

Eric Hanson, Kenneth Hunnicutt, Mahnaz Javid, Celia Johnson, Aaron Lewis, Kenneth MorphetBrown

School and Institute Advisory Boards

Bosch Baha’ School

Robin Evans, Sharon Jensen, Luis Jiminez, Nasrollah Maghzi, Nasratollah Rassekh

Green Acre Baha'i School

Nina Dini, Chester Makoski, Nancy Modern, Robin Marshall Murphy, Vickie Nizin

Louhelen Baha'i School

Azar Alizadeh, Gwen Etter-Lewis, John Mangum, René Steiner, Mary Wilson

Louis G. Gregory Baha'i Institute

Linda Lyerly, Fereydoun Jalali, Josephine McFadden, Adalia Ellis, Deborah Nesmith, Charles Thomas, Lenzy Woodard

Native American Bahd’t Institute

Alice Bathke, Jeannette Coffey, Rita Cowboy, Jeff Kiely, Vali Manavi, Linda Wilson, Monte Yellowhorse

Army of Light Coordinators

Lalita Amos, Susan Calimeri, Marva Davis, Llewellyn Drong, Sandra Fair, Vafa Ferdowsian, Andrenea King, Dorita Krapf, Marcelle LaVine, Alison McGee, May Movafagh, Saghi Nabili, Carl Pabst, Lisa Puzon, Margaret Riebau, Christopher Ruhe, Andrea Seals, Shiva Ziai Arts Task Force

Catherine Chapman, Connie Chen, Shervin Hawley, Shidan Magidi, Stephanie Smith

Baha‘i Service for the Blind

Mary Baral, Dean Martineau, Jane Mclver, Lynne Peary, William Peary

Brilliant Star

Meg Anderson, Keith Boehme, Sharon Jensen, Pepper P. Oldziey, Cindy Savage

Brilliant Star Advisory Board Keith Boehme, Alonzo Coleman, Delane Hein, Chester Makoski, Pepper P. Oldziey, Sherri Smith

Brilliant Star Creative Task Force

Nancy Coker, Barbara Johnson, Eileen Lozen— Kowalski, Cindy Pacileo, Karen Olin Parrish, Dennis Smith, Mary Wilson

Chinese Task Force

Pei-lu Chiu, Hong Foo, Zhian Hedayati, Pamela Solon, Lynn Wieties

Baha'i Encyclopedia Editorial Board

Larry Bucknell, Betty J. Fisher, Firuz Kazemzadeh, Todd Lawson, Heshmat Moayyad, Moojan Momen, Will Van den Hoonaard, John Walbridge

Education Task Force

Angelina Allen, Saba Ayman-Nolley, Anne Breneman, Barbara Johnson, Beatriz Reyna Curry, Michael Rogell, Lola Schappell, John Smith, Leonard Smith, Irene Taafaki, Joannie Yuille

Task Force for the Baha’i House of Worship Gwen Clayborne, Lorelei McClure, Mitra Precht,

28

THe American BAHA'I

Elliot Rubenstein

Latin American Task Force Vera Berrio Breton, Alexis Garcia, Luis Jiminez, Alejandro Melendez

Parenting Task Force

Lily Ayman, Anne Breneman, A. Jack Guillebeaux, Bill Joyner, Marie Scheffer

National Persian Media Task Force Guitty Ejtemaee, Mehrdad Haghighi, Ghodratollah Naderi

Regional Persian Media Task Forces

Atlanta

Parviz Izadi, Riaz Khadem, Faezeh Kharazmi, Nourreddin Kharazmi, Jamshid Monajjem, Nader Naderi, Shamseddin Sabetazm,Mansour Sobhani, Rouhanieh Sobhani

Southern California

Houshmand Aghili, Goli Ataee, Fereshteh Bethel, Mehrdad Haghighi, Iraj Khademi, Pirooz Khorvash, Mondana Najafabati, Parviz Nazerian,

Habib Riazati

Washington, DC

Farzin Afsahi, Mahin Afsahi, Khalil Akhavan, Guitty Ejtemaee, Nosratolah Ighani, Kambiz Majidi, Ghodratollah Mostaghim, Firuz Nabili, Behruz Rahimi, Melahat Zebarjadi, Soheil Zebarjadi

Persian Reviewing Panel

Abolghassem Afnan (UK), Mohammad Afnan (BWC), Cyrus Agahi (UK), Iraj Ayman (US), Amin Banani (US), A.H. BashirElahi (US), Manuchehr Derakhshani (US), Khaze Fananapazir (UK), Riaz Ghadimi (Canada), Houshang Mehrassa (Canada), Heshmat Moayyad (US), Moojan Momen (UK), Mashallah Mache Eenten (US), Shapur Rassekh (Switzerland), Ali Tavangar (US)

Special Materials Reviewing Committee Eunice Braun, Mahvash Doering, Charles Nolley, Lynnea Prochnow, Dixie Rouleau, Robert Stockman

World Order Editorial Board

Betty J. Fisher, Howard Garey, Firuz Kazemzadeh, Robert Stockman, James Stokes, Herbert Woodward Martin

In Lynchburg, Virginia, persistence pays dividends as Baha’is gain invitations to synagogue, college with other programs taking shape

The Baha’i community of Lynchburg, Virginia, has long been visible through repular firesides and other events listed weekly in the local newspaper.

Now its dedication is paying off.

A couple who first heard of the Faith through monthly firesides at Lynchburg College opened their home in the country for the Baha’is’ Ayy4m-i-Ha party.

Then a rabbi whom the Baha'is hosted for dinner in February invited the Bahd’is to the synagogue March 17 for an evening program on the Faith.

A Persian chant and a general introduction to the Faith opened the program. Two passages from the writings also were recited. The rabbi copied three pages from The Baha'is magazine and four of

ha’u’llah’s writings from Meditations of the Blessed Beauty and distributed them to the congregation.

During refreshments, the Baha’is got to know members of the Jewish community who live in their neighborhoods. Surely, friendships will result as a result of the shared evening.

The synagogue program also led to an invitation from a sociology professor at Central Virginia Community College for the Baha’is to take part in a panel discussion at the college this spring.

Another campus-related activity is taking shape. The Baha'is are working with the staff at Lynchburg College and the college’s international students on a host family program to offer the students hospitality and a chance to enhance their experience in America by getting to know local families.

[Page 29]“Azar B.E. 152 © May 17, 1995

29

Croatia elects its thi

Last September, after a summer of constant Baha'f activities, Croatia's third local Spiritual Assembly was elected in the town of Rijeka. The election, held at the Jadran Hotel, was attended by Auxiliary Board member Paolo Scarpa and was preceded by deepenings on Baha’f elections and the role of the local Spiritual Assembly.

.

The Collis Featherstone Teaching Campaign, initiated by the National Youth Committee of Australia in Wollongong, New South Wales, has enrolled two new believers under the banner of Bahd'u'llah—a 21-year-old college student from Sydney and a musician of Maori background who used to lead a meditation group and has brought several of its members to Baha'f workshops.

.

More than 1,000 people took part last January in an observance of World Religion Day organized by the Baha'i community of Singapore and held at the Singapore Conference Hall. Speakers from nine religious communities echoed the day's theme, “religion should be the cause of unity.” The audience was composed of more than 30 ambassadors, high commissioners and diplomats along with representatives of various religious communities including Counselors for Asia Rose Ong and Shanthra Sundram.

°

Last November, representatives of the National Spiritual Assembly of Sweden had a successful visit with the head of the Church of Sweden, the newly appointed Archbishop Gunnar Weman. Their purpose was to inform him of the Faith and its activities in Sweden, and to present him with literature about the Faith. “It turned out,” aye the National Assembly's report, “that the Archbishop had already had long discussions about the Faith with the late Sverre Holmsen. He was a pact in the parish where Sverre

lolmsen, author of the first introductory book on the Faith in Swedish, had lived.”

. More than 50 Baha'is from 13 communities attended the first Cambodian

National Teaching Con- [J ference, held recently in y Phnon Penh. Among those taking part were Counselor Lee Ludher, an Auxiliary Board member from Thailand, and traveling teachers from Malaysia. Topics studied included prayer and meditation, spiritual principles of socio-economic development, teaching, unl, and the importance of abstaining from backbiting. Also, workshops were held on “How to Share the Message of Baha'u'llah” and “Personal Teaching Plans.” All but two of the talks were given by Baha'is from Cambodia. .

Last November, the London, England, borough of Wandsworth's Stand-

ing Advisory Council on Religious Education produced a new Agreed Syllabus for teaching religious education in all the borough's schools. The syllabus includes a 15-page section on the Baha'i Faith consisting of an introduction, a glossary of 70 Baha'{ terms, and a curriculum for teaching the Faith in schools at every stage of primary and secondary levels. °

Baha'is took part last November ina three-hour television program on religious beliefs in Romania following the revolutionary changes of 1989. The program began with an introduction to the Faith, inspired, said the interviewer, by a performance by young Baha'is who had presented the principles of the Faith through the arts and drama in Bucharest in July 1994. The introduction was followed by a 10minute clip of a Baha'f deepening program, interviews with several Baha'is, and a series of questions about the Faith.

° A multi-faith festival to celebrate

families from a variety of religious and cultural perspectives was held for two days last December at the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto, Canada. The National Spiritual Assembly of Canada's Department of Public Affairs was one of 20 co-sponsors of the event, at which more than 10,000 people came to gather resources from the 50 display booths and to sample workshops and seminars from among the more than 60 options available. .

More than 350 Baha'is and 40 children from Austria, Greece, Italy, Malta, Switzerland and Tunisia gathered “in a spirit of enthusiasm and [with] a profound desire to deepen their knowledge and love for the Cause of God in preparation for entry by troops” at the annual National Teaching Conference, held recently in Trevi, Italy. Among those taking part were Counselor Larissa Tsutskova, five members of the National Spiritual Assembly of Italy,

Last September Chris Keller (pictured at left), a Baha’ who lives in Washington, D.C., presented a solo piano recital at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The program included original compositions, jazz standards, and one piece that incorporated passages from the Writings (‘Love Is the Secret’—'Abdu'l-Baha). In February Ms. Keller traveled to Venezuela (where she was a pioneer from 1988-92) to perform concerts at universities, and is planning a ‘Jazz for Peace’ concert this year, for which she has been awarded a grant by the D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities. She would like to network with others who are involved in teaching the Faith through the arts, and can be reached at 202-291-4125.

In Zaire, the International School of World Children teaches spiritual and material education. The spiritual education is based on Baha'i teachings and the school's affairs are conducted according to Bahdii principles.

and three Auxiliary Board members.

More than 100 people, most of whom were not Baha'is, attended a recent round-table discussion on “Human Rights at the Threshold of the 21st Century” organized by the Baha'i community of Santa Cruz, Canary Islands. Among those taking part were the ombudsman of the Parliament, a member of the Upper Court of Justice, the vice-rector of the University of La Laguna, the president of the Spanish Red Cross for the Province of Tenerife, a representative of the Spanish Baha'i community, and a member of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Canary Islands.

A camp aimed at bringing young Baha'is together as one spiritual family was held last December 12-18 at the Baha'i Institute in Mahalapye, Botswana. More than 35 young people from throughout the country studied such topics as the life of Baha'u'll4h, the Covenant, the Most Holy Book, chastity and marriage, Baha'i administration, and the immortality of the soul. Participants pledged to dedicate their efforts to their spiritual development, continue to study the Faith, and actively serve the Cause of God.

The Baha'i House of Worship near New Delhi, India, continues to attract large numbers of visitors, as more than 960,000 people from around the world visited the Temple last September, October and November. Among the vis tors were 44 Catholic Ursuline Sister from five countries, in India for a conference; 45 representatives of the World Council of Churches and National Council of Churches; 150 delegates from 19 countries attending the Audit Congress; and Nguyen Chi Vu, the Vietnamese ambassador to India, accompanied by his wife and two daughters.

[Page 30]NATIONAL CONVENTIO

Delegates

Continued from page 1

sented by the Secretary-General, Robert C. Henderson; the Secretary for External Affairs, Firuz Kazemzadeh; and the Treasurer, Mr. Davis.

Mr. Henderson described and elaborated upon the National Spiritual Assembly’s hopes, cares and plans for the community, then encouraged everyone to study and take to heart the guidance and instructions conveyed to this community by the Universal House of Justice in its letter of May 19, 1994, which he called “perhaps the most revolutionary document received by this community since the peas statement, and before that since The Advent of Divine Justice.”

The letter, he said, has exerted “a gilvanizing: influence on the National

piritual Assembly.” To consider it

roperly, he noted, “we must connect

it] with the [House of Justice’s] letter on individual rights and freedoms. They are companion documents.”

As a part of its response to the letter, Mr. Henderson said, the National Spiritual Assembly “has taken action in several areas including deepen and restructuring the Assembly itself; refining its collaboration with the Counselors; further developing the methods of operation of the national administration and educating the National Center staff; advancing plans for decentralization; and proposing anew plan for Spiritual ReLeAB development.”

In fact, he said, the National Assembly “reorganized the entire National Center to lay what it felt was a more appropriate basis for service to the American Baha’i community,” recognizing that this is “a process of endless refinement and change and growth in our understanding, our practice and our implementation” of

the guidance given by the House of

Justice.

Meanwhile, he said, the National Assembly has held a series of meetings with the Counselors during the past year to discuss the May 19 letter and its implications for action.

Mr. Henderson also reported to delegates the resolution of problems that have lingered since the second Baha’i World Congress.

Negotiations with hotels and airlines over disputed fees, he said, have resulted in a savings of hundreds of thousands of dollars. Happily, the National Spiritual Assembly has now received payment from nearly everyone who attended the Congress.

All monies received from airlines and attendees, and any savings realized from settlements with hotels and the travel agency, he noted, are forwarded to the World Center.

The Universal House of Justice, Mr. Henderson said, has approved the financial accounting of World Congress operations.

Following Mr. Henderson’s remarks, delegates were unanimous in their opinion that these matters should be shared with the friends throughout the country.

The external affairs efforts of the National Assembly, its work with governments, organizations and prominent persons outside the Faith, is increasingly vital, said Mr. Kazemzadeh

in summarizing the most recent developments in external affairs.

That point was underscored, he said, ina strategy paper sent last October to all National Spiritual Assemblies.

In that paper, the Universal House of Justice identified the primary areas of external affairs activity at this time as human rights, the status of women, moral leadership, and global prosperity. The National Assembly, Mr. Kazemzadeh said, has focused its attention to date on the first three areas:

¢ Human rights. Persecution of the Iranian Baha’i community, he pointed out, has served as “a great loudspeaker” for the Faith, with the martyrs’ blood paying for such advances as international conventions on genocide and discrimination.

¢ The status of women. Mr. Kazemzadeh said that the Faith not only stands ready to offer ideas in this area, but time and again has provided an example of unity while others are fighting. One instance, he said, is preparations for the fourth World Conference on Women to be held in Beijing, China.

Moral leadership. Mr. Kazemzadeh underlined the need to influence

those who must help bring about the Lesser Peace. Someday, he said, “when the green light goes on and [people] realize the Source” of that influence, a great transformation will come about.

Mr. Kazemzadeh described briefly the Bahd‘f-sponsored exhibit on the defense of religious liberty [see article on page 1] which uses the Faith as a case in point of how the moral leadership of the U.S. can be brought to bear in the world.

After reviewing our current financial condition and praising the community for its diligence and generosity in giving to the Arc Projects, Mr. Davis said that the annual lag in contributions from May through September “causes a profound financial hardship for the national administration.

“It invariably means we are placed in a position of having to borrow money at the very time when we have the greatest activity. This is of great consequence,” he said. “It hurts profoundly the operation of the American Baha'i community.”

The Ridvén message

On Friday morning, the Ridvan 152 message from the Universal House of Justice was presented to the delegates for their consideration and consultation.

Noting the reference in the message to the compilation on entry by troops, Counselor Birkland recalled the cover letter to that compilation, in which the need to foster a clear and united vision for the expansion of the Cause was expressed.

The Counselor reminded the delegates of the role, as explained in the Tablets of Baha‘u'lldh, that vision plays in understanding—reduce blindness and increase vision—and urged them to spawn ideas on how to establish such a clarity of vision.

Counselor Roberts also had a request of delegates: to consider the message from the House of Justice in light of the challenges of the past two years.

Itisn’t easy or simple to attract souls to the Cause, he said, unless our efforts are backed by a serious intent.

But, he said, the House of Justice, through this message, raises us up and reminds us of our eepedy not only to attract souls to the Cause but to meet other daunting goals such as building

the Arc on Mount Carmel.

“Let no excessive criticism or feelings of inadequacy, inability or inexperience hinder you or cause you to be afraid,” he said, quoting from the message. “Bury your fears in the assurances of Baha‘u’llah.”

Counselor Ellis directed everyone’s attention to the final paragraph of the message, in which the House of Justice writes that this year’s accomplishments must “set the stage for the next global enterprise to be

30

THe AMERICAN BAHA'i

Where we stand in teaching work

Some notable successes have come about in teaching during the Three Year Plan, reported Ken Bowers, secretary of the National Teaching Committee.

But even though the community has been highly active and has engaged in many vigorous and imaginative efforts, eval enrollments remain flat, he said.

So, is there a reason to panic? Mr. Bowers said, emphatically, “no.”

ictory is within our reach, the Universal House of Justice has said. Our task is to remain “constant and confident” in our teaching efforts and remember the spiritual fundamentals of teaching, said Mr. Bowers.

He listed proven characteristics of success:

¢ Interaction with the Creative Word.

¢ Balancing proclamation, expansion and consolidation.

Firesides.

Spiritual meetings.

¢ Deepenings.

Relating the Faith to peoples’ needs.

¢ Emblazoning the Name of Baha’u’llah.

Creating models of community life.

launched at Ridvan 1996.”

With such a new and exciting global enterprise on the horizon, she asserted, we cannot afford to hear again the phrase “sad lag in enrollments.”

This is no

Spiritual Assemblies, as they mature, must stimulate and support individual initiative, foster universal participation, make strategic but flexible plans, and efficiently enroll and consolidate new believers, he said. In this, ollaboration with Auxiliary Board members and assistants is critical.

Individual spiritual qualities that will attract the

confirmations of Bahd’u’lléh, he said, include steadfastness, sacrifice, genuine love for humanity, passion for service, reliance on His Power, and plenty of

patience and detachment.

longer a “parlor religion,” Counselor Ellis said, adding that we have many things to do “to bring people out of the churches: teach, build the Arc, and have places [for them] to worship.”

Challenges

Friday’s morning session concluded with a presentation by Mr. Henderson and Mr. Davis on challenges to the National Fund, while the afternoon session was opened with an overview of trends and challenges in teaching by Ken Bowers, secretary of the National Teaching Committee.

Mr. Henderson and Mr. Davis prefaced their discussion by reviewing some decisions of the National Spiritual Assembly that cannot be carried out because the money isn’t there.

An example, they said, is a plan to establish a program of moral education based on the Core Curriculum for nonBaha’‘f children and their parents. The start-up cost, said Mr. Henderson, is $135,000 that simply isn’t available.

Also on the back burner, he said, is a non-profit entity that would supply diversity training based on Baha'i principles to cities, corporations, schools, etc.

Mr. Davis noted that the National Spiritual Assembly no longer has lines of credit on which to draw, and likened the institution’s dilemma to “trying to navigate the Straits of Magellan in the dead of night without a compass.”

Delegates replied to the remarks about the needs of the National Fund by urging that they be shared with the community as a whole. Delegates and others attending the Convention then responded personally to those needs by donating $128,724 in cash and $20,193 in pledges to the National Fund, $43,295 in cash and $38,100 in

ledges to the Arc Fund, and about 1,600 to the other Funds.

“{The National Teaching Committee’s] feeling is that we have a ver active community,” Mr. Bowers said. “There is vigorous work going on...and new imagination and creativity going into the teaching work...such as the Bahd’f Youth Workshops and the focus on the arts in teaching the Faith.

“We've had some notable successes in teaching...but over-all growth remains steady. And for the past 15 years, with only one or two exceptions, that’s where we've been.”

In the letter from the House of Justice of May 19, 1994, he said, “there are two central themes about teaching: first, to remain constant and confident in our teaching efforts; and second...to remember the spiritual fundamentals of teaching.

“What this means to us,” he said, “is that we have to move forward, but at the same time we should also do better at what we are doing. We should have better teachers, better teaching projects, better management of teaching and administration. In other words, going from activity to productivity.”

The key to our success, Mr. Bowers said, is “interaction with the Creative Word...on a regular basis. Deepening

rovides the basis for spiritual trans formation...and increases our vision of

who we are as Baha’is. With knowledge comes confidence, which makes us better teachers.

“Deepening,” he said, “is not just a passive reading of Holy Writings but something that should inspire us and inform what we do. Rigorous attention to the Writings gives us what we need to carry out the teaching work.

“And the use of the Holy Word in teaching exerts, as Baha'u'llah said, a ‘magnetic influence’ on Pere So this practice must be widely cultivated in

[Page 31]“‘Azamat B.E. 152 © May 17, 1995

31

NATIONAL CONVENTION

the community.”

Consultation at the 86th Convention was frank, open and honest from the outset, with one of the delegates expeau, early in the proceedings what

e said were concerns voiced to him by some of the friends “about the income paid to members and families of the National Spiritual Assembly,” concerns, he noted, that are “affecting their attitude toward communications from the National Assembly, their willingness to support the efforts of the National Assembly, and their contributions [to the Funds].”

The friends, he said, “compare these figures [in the annual report] to incomes of members of the Universal House of Justice, other prominent Bahd’is, and their own incomes. No one has been able to say they’ve seen documents...but this is the discussion.

“T don’t think such an issue can be left unattended,” the delegate said. “If there is just one Baha’i whose relationship with the National Spiritual Assembly is somehow impaired, it is too many.”

The National Spiritual Assembly re sponded to the delegate’s concerns in

e same spirit of forthrightness and eatiog with which they were raised.

Mr. Davis, speaking on behalf of his colleagues, first thanked the delegate for conveying “what obviously is a matter of some distress and concern to him, and bringing to our attention that perhaps other members of the community may feel the same.”

Mr. Davis, who once served as personnel officer at the Baha’f World Center, said that “there are perhaps no more than two peo Pie in this room who have any sense of how the House of Justice’s needs are taken care of. So when individuals make observations about how [that is done], they are based on guesswork, not on fact.”

Asa result of his service at the World Center, said Mr. Davis, “I am aware of those issues and how they are dealt with. I simply wish to make the point that when individuals begin to replace the judgment of institutions and to use innuendo and false information, the consequences [can be] severe.

The National Spiritual Assembly, he said, “at its first meeting after the [annual] election, reviews the financial needs of those who have been asked to serve full-time, and in that consultation decides on an appropriate level of compensation to meet the needs” they have presented.

Such decisions, Mr. Davis said, “are matters for institutions; they are not matters for individuals to decide.

“When individuals wish to put themselves in the position of making judgments about institutions, I think all of us are more than familiar with the writings on those matters.”

Unlike federal and state governments, for which he has worked for more than 25 years, Mr. Davis said, “the Baha’i administration is based on trust. That is the underlying concept. And so when individuals have concerns—and I’m not wishing to be misunderstood, they have every right to have them—I think it is wise to express them directly to the National Assembly, as has been ee here, and then you [the delegates] have the opportunity to vote tomorrow in the electoral process.

“I would simply conclude,” Mr. Davis said, “by saying that in the case

of [Bah’f] institutions—either local or national—setting the level of compensation is done by the institution based on an assessment of the need in that individual case.”

Mr. Henderson reviewed many of the decisions taken by the National Spiritual Assembly to conserve the precious funds available to it, including “paring down the national administration to the point that it’s a skeletal workforce.”

At the National Center, Mr. Henderson said, “no one does one job. Everyone does two or three or four jobs because that’s what is needed.”

Still, he added, “if it weren't for the volunteers we wouldn’t be able to survive. Last year, by actual count, we had $4 million in volunteer services rendered at the Baha’i schools, the National Center, the Mashriqu’l-Adhkar—in everything we try to do, we reach out to the friends and say, do you have a skill that can help us?”

Addressing the specific concern expressed by the delegate, Mr. Henderson said, “We have to let go of our suspicion of our institutions, and we

have to stop speculating.

“..1f we don’tsee the inner workings of the institutions, we speculate about what they might be. And we have all kinds of sophisticated theories...[but if you have concerns], ask. That’s what we do. We consult. [So] ask questions. Raise these concerns. ...That is what Bahda’is are obliged to do.”

National Assembly elected

At the midpoint of the Convention, delegates paused to elect the institution that will guide the initiatives and oversee the progress and development of the American Baha’{ community at this critical juncture in its history.

Elected in balloting in Foundation Hall at the Baha’i House of Worship to serve as members of the National Spiritual Assembly for B.E. 152 were Juana Conrad, William E. Davis, Alberta Deas, Robert C. Henderson, Firuz Kazemzadeh, Patricia Locke, Jack McCants, Dorothy W. Nelson and James EF. Nelson.

The new National Assembly met immediately to elect its officers: Mr. Nelson, chairman; Mrs. Nelson, vicechairman; Mr. Henderson, secretarygeneral; Mr. Davis, treasurer; Kazemzadeh, secretary for external affairs; and Mrs. Conrad, assistant secretary.

After the election Saturday morning, the delegates consulted further on the letter of May 19, 1994, from the Universal House of Justice.

A ‘family talk’

The introduction of the newly elected National Spiritual Assembly is always a highlight of the Convention, as delegates express openly their support for those who have been chosen to serve as the members of their national administrative body for the coming year.

It was no different this year, but first there was something that had to be set right within the American Baha'i community.

Referring to accusations that some members of the National Spiritual Assembly may have profited financially from the World Congress, Chairman James Nelson minced no words in labeling such accusations “a poison, gion, a contrariness” that he said i: day abroad in the American Baha’f community”—one that “affects the very atmosphere in which we work.”

Such accusations, he said, “have

Convention visitors and delegates join in an expression of faith as the Baha'i Gospel Ensemble performs. (Photo by Tom Mennillo)

been denounced by the Universal House of Justice as false, and the perpetrators ordered to desist. Let us put an end to this nonsense.”

The institution itself, Mr. Nelson said, “is beyond hurt.” What is hurt, he said, “is the body of the Cause itself if it must spend time fending this off. It cannot be allowed to stand in the way of the victories we must achieve.”

Counselor Birkland urged the delegates to put the episode in perspective, fecal ing Shoghi Effendi’s admonition that crises, calamities and base betrayals have been a part of the Faith since its beginnings.

But from each, he said, are released fresh confirmations of God’s unfailing grace. And even when they lead to further opposition, these crises release more of the divine power that is a part of “the resistless march of the Faith of Baha’u‘ll4h.”

Focused consultation

Besides teaching and the Funds, delegates consulted on a range of issues and topics affecting the Cause in this community including focused consultation on

¢ building model Baha’i communities using Baha’i Youth Workshops as a model, which was prefaced by a dramatic and well-received performance

on “Living Baha’i” by the Chicago Baha’i Youth Workshop; and

° apply: ying the directives of the Guardian to the issue of race unity, following a presentation by Mr. Henderson in which he called race unit “a oneness issue” that concerns all people, not only blacks and whites.

The Right of God

One other presentation was made to delegates, this one by Daryush Haghighi, Trustee of Huqtqu’llah, who earlier this year suffered a major heart attack but “willed himself” back to health in time to report on progress in adhering to the law of the Right of God.

The believers must become universally aware, he said, that the Law of God is not merely a fund-raising tool but an important aspect of the Covenant, in which “obedience has nothing to do with payments, but [everything to do] with the...well-being of the whole of humanity.”

Dr. Haghighi said that all of the institutions of the Faith have a role to play in administering the Law of Huqtqu’llah. From consultation among the Trustees, Counselors and National Spiritual Assembly, he said, will emerge the tools necessary to help local communities help the individual believers to deepen in the law.

Emphasis on the arts

Spiritually uplifting expressions of the arts are also a highlight of Convention, and this year was no exception as a variety of aural and visual images helped pare p or delegates and visitors to new heights. Among the performers were

°‘IINDA (“Life”), an American Indian performing group whose members include Esther and Joel Orona, the new co-administrators of the Native American Bahda‘{ Institute in Arizona;

singer/guitarist/composer Susan

Lewis Wright;

an ensemble from the World Congress choir.

Convention-goers also premiered the latest Vision in Action video, entitled “The March to Victory,” and saw excerpts from another video on the history of the Law of Huqtqu’ll4h.

As has become a recent tradition at the National Convention, the Baha’i Gospel Ensemble evoked a strong emotional response from its audience.

On Saturday evening, and again to close the Convention on Sunday, the Gospel Ensemble had everyone clap ing, Sey and, ultimately, rushing

forward to link hands in a show of unity and praise of God.

But perhaps the most poignant moments at this Convention were embodied in a moving tribute to the martyrs that followed devotions Friday evening to commemorate the Ninth Day of Ridvan.

Roses were handed out, each with a ribbon bearing the name of one who had sacrificed his or her life out of love for the Blessed Beauty. Family members of many of the martyrs then stood to recount—in voices both strong and quivering with emotion—their heartrending stories of heroism and sacrifice.

What more can be said, other than to redicate ourselves to a living sacrifice that will pay fitting tribute to these beloved members of our Baha'i family and be acceptable in the eyes of our Beloved.

[Page 32]ADS

CLASSIFIEDS

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

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

THE GREEN ACRE Baha‘ School has an opening for a full-time program coor~ dinator. This is a year-round position primarily responsible for planning and coordinating educational programs and activities for adults, youth and children. The position requires a personable, crea tive, highly motivated person who is a strong self-starter. Experience in teaching or direct involvement in Baha’f educational programs, ability to communicate effectively with large groups and to interact with a wide range of people, and proven success in organizing and coordinating multiple tasks in a similar position are highly desirable. Please send a letter of introduction and résumé to Ray LaBelle, administrator, Green Acre Baha‘f School, 188 Main St., Eliot, ME 03903.

THE BAHA'{ Center in Kingman, Arizona, needs a caretaker. The caretaker pays $305/month plus utilities for a one room apartment with twin beds. Needed is someone who wants to teach every day. There are no local Assemblies in Mohave County, the country's fifth largest. My commitment as caretaker runs until March 21, 1996, but I would like help before then to help keep the Center—the first and only one in the county—open. The newspapers have been very cooperative in printing almost everything we present. Write to

Kingman, AZ 86401,

or phone 520-753-2690.

THE LOUIS GREGORY Bahd’t Institute has vacancies for Youth Service Corps volunteers. Applications are sought from youth who desire to grow in the fields of service and obedience. Ser— vice areas include teaching—entry by troops; Radio Baha’i—broadcasting, maintenance; teaching / deepening children; education center—tutoring, G.E.D.

rograms. For information, phone 803558-5093, or fax 803-558-2921.

THE GREEN ACRE Bahd‘i School has an immediate opening for a full-time administrative assistant. Seeking highly motivated, energetic selfl-starter with strong organizational skills, excellent oral and written communication skills, competency in word processing and data base management, and an ability to balance and complete a variety of tasks on time with minimal supervision. Candidate must have outstanding interper

THE BAHA'f Distribution Service is accepting applications for a cus— tomer service representative. This is a full-time permanent staff position with hourly salary and benefits. In— terested candidates should have excellent written and oral communication skills, experience with computers and data entry, and a wide range of knowledge about Baha'i literature and related materials. For more information and an application, or to send your résumé, write to: Operations Su rvisor, Baha’{ Distribution Service,

3397 Wilbanks Drive, Chattanooga, TN 37343, or phone 615-843-0940.

sonal skills and enjoy working with people. Accounting/bookkeeping skills and some retail experience desirable; requires a minimum of 2-3 years similar office experience. Applicants should have a strong desire to serve, and ability to work harmoniously within the Baha’i admininstration and with diverse types of people. Please send a letter of introduction and résumé to Ray LaBelle, Green Acre Bahd’t School, 188 Main St., Eliot, ME 03903, or phone 207-439-7200.

PUBLIC SAFETY Officers sought at the Baha'{ 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, Baha'i Publishing Trust, the Baha’ 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 experience working alone or as part of a team, you may be qualified. Often, new officers are as— signed to the night shift (11 p.m. to 7 a.m.), which can be a rewarding experience for daytime students at nearby col~ leges or universities. If you are interested, either now or in a future appointment, please contact the Department of Human Resources, Baha'f National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or phone 708733-3429.

THE LOUHELEN Bookstore Café and Twin Oaks Dining Room are new additions to the operation of the Louhelen Baha'i School. Both offer improved service to those attending sessions at the school as well as to members of the general public. More volunteer staff are needed for these two operations. In particular, mature youth or adults are sought who are pursuing training or have career experience in the restaurant or hotel industries or other food service/ hospitality-related professions. The possibility of internships exists for students who would wish to explore such options. While no cash stipends are evairabt », full room and board are offered for those ac ted to serve. Length of service is flexible, with service opportunities ranging from a few weeks to a year or more. For an application, contact Mrs. Penny Schmicker, volunteer services manager, Louhelen Baha'i School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI 48423. Phone 810-6535033; fax 810-653-8850; INTERNET lou THE GREEN ACRE Bahd‘f School has an immediate opening for a resident caretaker. This is a year-round full-time volunteer position primarily responsible for building and grounds security at designated times, opening and closin, buildings as meedenifad functions, lightduty maintenance, responding to emergencies and greeting visitors. Requires a mature person with a strong desire to serve. On-campus residence provided. Ideal for retired or semi-retired couple; spouse may also apply for other openings at the school. Please submit a letter of introduction and résumé to Ray LaBelle, Green Acre Baha’ School, 188 Main St., Eliot, ME 03903.

PRODUCTION ASSISTANT needed to help in audio and video production for the Media Services Department at the Baha'i National Center. Principal re— sponsibilities: 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 peaeialieas training ina recognized program; ability to complete

assigned tasks with minimal supervision; ability to work harmoniously within the Baha‘f administration and with diverse types of individuals; ability to work well under deadline pressures; ability to han— dle 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, Baha'i National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-733-3429).

THE GREEN ACRE Baha’{ 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. Sppheans 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,

lease phone the Green Acre Baha'f

hool, 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 Baha'i School, 188 Main St., Eliot, ME 03903.

PIONEERING (OVERSEAS)

EMPLOYMENT opportunities overseas. AFRICA: Benin—project director, fluent in French, needed for a banking, micro-enterprise development project. Gambia—volunteer pre-school teachers, rural education coordinator. Mauritania —nurse/ practitioner or physician’s assistant to work as medical officer for the U.S. Peace Corps Office. Tanzania—urgent need for accountant. English teachers, computer teacher. Tuberculosis public health nurse, tuberculosis team manager. Uganda—primary education teacher trainer, need for self-supporting couple to serve as caretakers at the Mother Temple of Africa, Temple guides. AMERICAS: Brazil—pre-school and primary school teachers. Costa Rica— radio programmer. Guatemala—elementary school teachers. Honduras—elementary school teachers. Paraguay—assistant director/master trainer for longterm position at Latin American Peace Corps training Center. ASIA: India— teachers. Korea—airport software systems, lighting engineers. Macau—teachers. Sakhalin—teachers. Sri Lanka—law & media program director to develop, implement and administer law and media projects. Taiwan—manager of Baha'i Publishing Trust. AUSTRALASIA: Australia—caretaker(s) urgently needed for Yerrinbool Baha’i School and Institute. Marshall Islands—secondary school teachers in math, English, special education, bookkeeping, agriculture, secretarial, science and social studies. Micronesia—college faculty to teach bacteriology, anatomy, physiology, zoology, botany or marine sciences. Samoa—preschool trained teacher. EUROPE: Czech Republic—dorm parents, teachers. Russia—short-term volunteers, psychologists, sports teachers, organizers, musicians, teachers for summer camps. Tanzania—Urgent need for an accountant at the Ruaha ndary School. Panama has an urgent need fea two Spanishspeaking couples to serve in the Kuna region of the San Blas Islands. Brazil— School of Nations is seeking pre-school and primary school teachers (grades 1-4). The eae ‘orps needs special education teacher trainers, educators for the deaf, teachers of the visually impaired, and speech therapists. For details from the

32

Tue AMERICAN BAHA'I

Peace Corps office nearest you, call 1800-424-8580 and press 1 at the prompt. Youth opportunities: Alaska, Albania, Australia, Botswana, France, The Gambia, Honduras, India, Switzerland, Venezuela. For more information, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Baha’i National Center, Wilmette IL 60091 (phone 708-733-3512; fax 708-733-3509; email

PIONEERING (HOMEFRONT)

LAREDO, Texas, a goal city for the formation of a local Assembly by Ridvan 1996, invites homefront pioneers to help win the goal. Laredo (pop. 100,000-plus) is on a major route between the U.S. and Mexico; Nuevo Laredo, its sister city on the Mexican side of the border, has a population of more than 400,000. Texas A&M University has a branch in Laredo. Jobs are available in city government, education and other areas. For information, contact Lolita Pagarani, P.O. Box 78042, Laredo, TX 78042 (phone 210-7252937).

NEEDED: Baha'is who are willing to help d n and consolidate Southeast Asian Baha'is in feet erovane South Sac— ramento, California. Although there are more than 125 believers in the community, the majority of them are Southeast Asians new to the Faith. Ideally, the Assembly is looking for self-supporting individuals with free time, especially during the day; retired persons or a couple would be ideal. Experience with “developing” cultures or time spent living outside the U.S. would be an asset. For information, contact Sara or Marc Platz,

Sacramento, CA 95828 (phone 916-689-9645).

THE BAHA'f Wiregrass Group in Alabama urgently needs a family or individual to pioneer to Dothan, Alabama's only city of more than 50,000 that does not have an Assembly. There are four Baha'is living in the area and one in Dothan itself, We desperately desire active Baha'is who would be willing to settle in the city, become a part of the community and open their homes to seekers. For more information and help, please phone Mr. or Mrs. Johnson, 334393-4012 anytime, or Mrs. Payne, 334255-6840 during working hours.

HELP IS NEEDED to establish new Assemblies by the end of the Three Year Plan on the west coast of Michigan. If you are an elderly Baha’{ who wants to remain active in service to Baha’u’ll4h, we can use your experience, knowledge and wisdom. An assisted-care home is available to help you adjust. For information, write to the Simms, P.O. Box 112, Scottville, MI 49454, or phone 616-7573161.

RIDGECREST, California (pop. 25,000), 150 miles north of Los Angeles in the Mohave Desert, needs homefront pioneers to help save its jeopardized Assembly. Low cost of living, reasonable prices for renting or buying, possible employment in technical fields (China Lake Navy Base), education (Sierra Sands School District) or medicine (at the many medical offices in town). The Briggs mine will soon be opening. Ridgeway, the gateway to the southern Sierras, is central to the new Death Val— ley National Park, Red Rocks State Park, and the largest wilderness area outside of Alaska. For information, write to the Spiritual Assembly of Ridgecrest, P.O. Box 1479, Ridgecrest, CA 93555, or phone 619-371-6868.

HOMEFRONT pioneers are wanted in Florence, South Carolina, only 50 miles from the Louis Gregory Bahd't Institute. Prefer mature, self-supporting couple with pioneering experience, but dedication is the main quality needed. Florence is a vital Baha’ community with an ac~ tive Assembly, a local Center in a prime location, and hundreds of people on its membership list who have not been truly

[Page 33]

consolidated. South Carolina is an excit— ing place to be as a Bahd'f, and this is a call to those with a sense of spiritual ad— venture who love to serve. Phone 803667-1540 or write to the Spiritual Assembly of Florence,

Florence, SC 29501.

POMPANO Beach, Florida, on the state's Atlantic coast, needs help to maintain its Assembly, which was formed in 1962, and invites Baha'fs to come and serve the Faith while enjoying perfect beaches, sunny days and warm winters. A great place to work or retire. Pompano Beach is in Broward County, which has many Bahd’{ activities and an abundance of Baha'f love. For information, write to Annalean Schwandes, secretary,

Pompano Beach, FL 33062, or phone 305-941-6052.

CHIVES

THE NATIONAL Bahd’‘f Archives is seeking, at the request of the Universal House of Justice, original letters written on behalf of the Guardian to the following individuals: Alice Wilder (died Lakewood, OH, 1965), Grace Wilder, Georgie Brown Wiles, Roy C. Wilhelm, Mary Magdalene Wilkin, Gladys Willett (died Flint, MI, 1961), and Beatrice Williams (died Lakewood, CA, 1974). Anyone knowing family members or relatives who might have these letters from the Guardian is asked to contact the National Baha‘ Archives, Bah4’{ National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or to phone 708-869 prepared a series of biographical sketcl

WERE YOU in San Francisco during, the United Nations Conference on In— ternational prsanization from April 25June 26, 1945? Did you attend any of the Baha‘ activities? Do you have a conference program or other memorabilia such as photographs? Perhaps you have a story to tell. If you were present on that historic occasion, the Bay Area Baha'i UN5S0 Facilitating Committee would like to hear from you. Write to the Baha'i Center, 170 Valencia St., San Francisco, CA 94103, phone 415-431-9990, fax 415431-1733, or e-mail

WANTED: traveling teachers who may be in or near the Des Moines, Iowa, area. The Des Moines Area Teaching Committee is establishing a program of public firesides called “Crossroads.” Meetings are to be held the second Thursday evening each month; special Peverams can be arranged for anyone wishing to use this format. For details, please write to Napolun Birdsong or Pamela Knox, Des Moines, IA 50317, or phone 515-263-2778 (daytime answering machine) or 515-9610605 (evening answering machine).

THE BAHA'i community of Conway, South Carolina, is seeking a couple or an individual to live in its newly acquired Bahd’f Center. Conway is an energetic community with an ongoing teaching project and is committed to “entry by troops.” Conway is close to the Louis Gregory Bahd’{ Institute, Radio Baha’, and Myrtle Beach. The rent is negotiable based on services that the person/couple can provide. Phone (803) 293-7225 for information and details.

Missouri, birthplace of early American

9 THE NATIONAL Bahai hia seth ia BAHA'IS of Franklin County,

es of prominent African-American, Native American, Hispanic and AsianAmerican Baha‘is for use by local com— munities in observing Black History Month, Race Unity Day and other special events. Any local community that would like a set of these sketches is asked to send a request with mailing address to the National Baha’f Archives, Baha’i Na— tional Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-869-9039).

haf Phoebe Hearst, are seeking copies of pholeerephs letters, articles, etc. relating to Mrs. Hearst's Baha’ experience. ns are being made to present the ma— erial to the Missouri Historical Societ ‘and the local Phoebe Hearst Historical let Please contact the Baha'is of ‘ranklin County, P.O. Box 15, Pacific, iO 63069, or phone Shirley Lee, 314-2577521.

THE BAHA'T Association for the Arts

THE BAHA'f World Center ee initiated in 1986 by a group of

seeking for its archives five copies each of The American Baha'i dated March 2, 1994; March 21, 1994; and November 4, 1994. Please send to Department of Library and Archival Services, Baha'{ World Center, P.O. Box 155, Haifa 31 001, Israel. WANTED: The Mona.

i materials for classes and is looking for back issues of Brilliant Star and Child’s Way, Baha'{ school lesson plans, the Baha'i Teaching, Guide, and Baha'f books for children. Please send to Carri Smith,

Spanaway, WA 98387-7005, or

phone her at 206-847-4885. The Mona Baha'{ School can pay for postage.

THE BAHA'‘f Center in San Francisco, California, needs a caretaker (or couple) who are retired, self-supporting and can offer at least a year of service. The prin— cipal qualification is a warm, hospitable nature so that those who come to the Center, either for information or to attend meetings, find themselves welcomed in an atmosphere of dignity and reverence. The caretaker has many opportunities to teach, and should be open and ready to greet those who stop by or telephone, and to help them understand the teachings. The caretaker is responsible for opening and closing the Center at various hours and helping to maintain its appearance. A studio apartment will be provided on a major bus line within 10 minutes of the Center. Please write to the San Francisco Management Committee, 170 Valencia St., San Francisco, CA 94103, fax 415-431-9991, or phone 415431-9990.

'f School is

artists from various parts of Europe who are Baha'is, is a non-profit organization ose aim is to encourage networking, ediycation and promotion of the arts acrogs all disciplines and cultural back— rounds. Submissions and subscriptions &i / year) to its quarterly professionally Toduced, 20-40 page newsletter, “Arts ialogue,” can be sent to Kathleen L. Babb, Kirikushi, Etajima-cho, Aki-gun, Hiroshima-Ken 737-21 Japan (e-mail Telephone/

fax (81)823-44-1150.

MUSICIANS, dancers, writers, artists: is your calling to teach the Faith full-time through music, dance or art? Would you like to form a collective and help start a Creativity and Healing Institute for suffering souls? I would like to network with you in hopes of creating a project to express a love and spirit that will trans— form and heal hearts and lives. If the unity of the group is strong enough, this will happen! I am also interested in pioneering new forms and styles of music and art, especially the New Age genre. I play electric guitar, and my musical influences are classical, rock, jazz, new age and avant-garde. Anyone who is interested in supporting such a project is in— vited to contact Bob Charnes,

Voorhees, NJ 08043 (phone 609-772-2195;

“SONGS from Our Children's Hearts,” a project designed to spark and encourage creativity in our children, is looking for original songs based on Baha'i themes and written by children (ages 14 and under). The project, sponsored by the

Spiritual Assembly of Beacon, New York, depends upon enough quality material being received. It could lead to a recording of selected songs to be sung by Red Grammer, Laurie Early and others, with all proceeds going to-ward scholarship funds to enable more children to attend Baha'i schools. Please send your name, age, address and tele-phone number with a cassette recording of your song(s)—non-returnable—and lyric sheet to Laurie Early, c/o BIC, 866 United Nations Plaza, Suite 120, New York, NY 10017 (no phone calls, please).

Books, PERIODICALS

THE NATIONAL Spiritual Assembly of Bulgaria is offering an English version of its national Newsletter. A subscription of six issues by airmail costs U.S.$15. For more information, please contact the NSA of Bulgaria, P.O. Box 48, 1618 Sofia, Bulgaria.

YoutH Activities

DIVERSITY Dance Workshop has on— going openings for full-time dancers and performing artists ages 18-25 and also needs a road manager to coordinate its tours. DDW presents powerful programs addressing such issues as violence, rac~ ism, poverty, drug and alcohol abuse, intolerance and gender inequality. Great opportunity to tour schools throughout the Pacific Northwest and to travel na— tionally and internationally teaching Bahd’f principles. The road manager should be a well-organized adult with good communication skills. If interested, please contact DDW at P.O. Box 803, Bellevue, WA 98009, or phone 206-3913303.

GREEN ACRE Bahd’i School is looking for dedicated youth volunteers for a Year of Service beginning this summer. Applicants should have a strong desire to offer full-time service while gaining new skills through on-site training. Must be motivated to learn new tasks and be flexible enough to work in such diverse areas as food service, maintenance, housekeeping, office and bookstore. For more information or an application, write to Ray LaBelle, Green Acre Baha'i School, 188 Main St., Eliot, ME 03903, or phone 207-4391-7200.

THE NATIONAL Teaching Committee is seeking Baha'i Youth Service Corps volunteers, ages 18-23, to fill a variety of posts in the U.S. including service opportunities at the permant schools and institutes and opportunities in such places as Phoenix and Holbrook, AZ; Conway and Orangeburg, SC; Buncombe County, NC; Holland, MI; Los Angeles, CA; St. Paul, MN; and Kansas City, MO. There are also opportunities for young people who want to enroll in a college or university in a goal locality to serve as a homefront pioneer. If you would like to serve at any of these posts, or if you are interested in establishing a post in an— other locality, please contact Ada James in the National Teaching Committee office, 708-733-3493.

MisceLLANEOusS

ATTENTION former World Center staff: do you know that there are nearly 200 of us within an easy drive of Guelph, Ontario, Canada? Why so many? And why here? What opportunities for service does this present? Please join us for a reunion the weekend of June 30-July 2. Yes, we will have fun, share love an reminiscences; but more important, we will explore opportunities presented by the sheer number of us. Please contact us immediately to (1) indicate your plans to attend, and/or (2) offer your help with the many Brpaneatona octet Even if you don't live near Guelph, join us any 33

way! Write to Jaellayna and John Palmer,

__ Ont. NIH 6H9, Can— ada (phone 519-836-9821; fax 519-8221347; e-mail

IF YOU PLAN to attend international meetings in San Francisco celebrating the 50th anniversary of the United Nations, the Bay Area Baha'i Facilitating Committee for the UN 50th Anniversary would like to hear from you. Various receptions are being planned for Bahd'fs and their friends that we are sure you would like to know about in advance. Please contact the San Francisco Baha'i Center, 170 Valencia St., San Francisco, CA 94103 (phone 415-431-9990; fax 415-431-1733).

TRAVEL with the World Citizens Peace Caravan. The World Citizen Diplomats, a multinational, multifaith orga— nization, is looking for volunteers for the starting leg of its five-year WorldPeace Caravan, proclaiming that world peace is possible through multicultural understanding and a world federation. The journey starts in September at the United Nations headquarters in New York City and continues for a year through the U.S., Canada and parts of the Far East. Baha ‘fs who are helping to organize the Caravan would like to see Baha’f representation in it. People with an international background and knowledge of Bahd’{ teachings in that area are preferred. Ability to lead a group in music is a plus. Most expenses will be paid, although volunteers should provide their own “pocket money” for incidental ex enses. Please send a summary of your ackground to Jay Tyson, Mercerville, NJ 08619.

BAHA'f WOMEN who are textile ar— tists are invited to take part in a worldwide campaign to exhibit the works of Baha'i women at the fourth World Con— ference on Women to be held in Beijing, China, in 1995. The project is being coordinated by Vicki Hu Poirier on behalf of the Baha’ International Community Office for the Advancement of Women. Works can include weaving, embroidery (small pieces), batik, surface painting, shisha work, appliqué, lace work or any other art form that uses fabric. Individual works from Baha’f women around the world will be put together into a tap— estry by Mrs. Poirier. Artists are asked to send their contributions to Mrs. Poirier at Las Cruces, NM 88001. (Note: works must be received by the end of February 1995.)

WHY NOT consider presenting a theatre fireside? A free script of “Day of Decision,” a three-act play about the Faith, is offered as a teaching vehicle to any community. Please request it from Dawn Edwards,

Salt Lake City, UT 84106 (phone 801-2641199). A posting cost of six stamps would be welcomed.

GET YOUR NEWS ON THE AIR!

Radio Baha'{, North America’s first Baha'i radio station, now has a weekly news broadcast. This unique news service covers U.S. and international Baha'i events and achievements.

Now we need your help to put the efforts of individual friends and your community “on the air.” Put Radio Baha'i on the mailing list for your local newsletter today.

Your community is working hard for this beloved Cause. Now, let the whole world know about it!

Post your local newsletter to: Radio Baha'i

Route 2, Box 69

Hemingway, SC 29554

[Page 34]Tue AMERICAN BAHA'I

‘WS IN BRIEF

in southwestern Oregon.

Last December, the second annual Women's Spiritual Retreat was held at a log cabin in the snow-covered mountains of southwestern Oregon.

Friendships were renewed and souls revitalized in an atmosphere of physical and spiritual beauty. But more important than the immediate benefits to the 20 attendees from eight communities—including Baha'is and friends of the Faith— were the plans they initiated to turn the experience into ongoing opportunities for teaching and service.

Inspired by discussions aimed at defining and enhancing friendships, personal empowerment and spiritual focus, the group consulted to establish a variety of teaching and support groups that could serve themselves and their communities on a continuing basis.

Their ideas were formalized at a “reunion brunch” in January, while at an “open house” tea in February,

Pictured are many of the 20 Bahd'i women and their friends who took part last December in the second annual Women's Spiritual Retreat held

Teaching, service to Cause are themes at second Women’s Spiritual Retreat

Baha'i women and their friends who hadn't taken part in the retreat were invited to add their input and resources to a wide range of proposed projects.

The meetings led to the formation of six groups involving the participation of 30 women with goals to include hospitality and fellowship, teaching and firesides, improving parenting skills, undertaking community service projects, and establishing two support groups centered on applying the spiritual principles of the Faith to the resolution of everyday problems.

The teaching efforts begun by this handful of believers are destined to bring results through limitless possibilities and contagious excitement, while the spiritual benefits gained by the project can already be seen in the stronger sense of unity and commitment manifested by the participants.—Linda Viviane

Bombing

Continued from page 6

“So powerful is the light of unity that it can illuminate the whole earth, and the light of the unity of Oklahoma shines over the world. Overwhelmed by the response of the community and nation to the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah building and the demonstration of love and unity by the people of Oklahoma, the religious leadership of this area join together for Interfaith Disaster Recovery for the greater Oklahoma City to foster this spirit of love and unity.”

She continued, “This could be the start of a new level of unity in this community, and it is gratifying that the Bahd’is have been asked to be in the forefront of the effort. They don’t need

The National Spiritual Assembl: would like to remind the Bah'is that itis necessary to obtain permission from the Universal House of Justice before traveling to Israel, whether for personal reasons or to visit the Baha'f Holy Places.

our meager finances; the money has already been provided. What they need is expertise at seeing all faiths as equally spiritually squipped intercommunity organizational skills and consultation skills. It’s great that what we do have to offer is what is suddenly the most in demand!”

That’s where matters stood at the end of Ridvan.

The Oklahoma City Assembly was gathering contributions for the donation to the Red Cross that it planned to make around May 15.

And Ms. Van Kley had some final news:

“One result of the ‘need do something’ is record attendance at area churches. ...We’ve had some of that ourselves, in the return to the Sunday Baha‘i classes of several friends not seen ina long, long time. A friend I've been inviting to events for a year finally came to our Holy Day picnic and hiking trip Tuesday.

“Friends, I’m sure we don’t have a monopoly on spiritual need in our neck of the woods. We all can open our doors and our hearts, and offer what comforts us from Baha’u’llah’s Writings to console others.”

More than 50 works of art are displayed at L.A. Baha’i Center

A portrait of a young girl with her cat. An abstract of a woman flying through the air. Even the Greatest Name in calligraphy with an intricate background design.

These were just a few of the more than 50 works of visual art submitted by 18 artists for the opening January 28 of an art exhibit at the Los Angeles Baha‘i Center.

About 65 people gathered at a special reception for the artists that cially opened the two-week exhibit.

The show marked the first in a series of exhibits sponsored by the Baha’i Arts Council to focus public attention on spiritual principles. The various pieces displayed at the event were largely works by local Baha'i artists that focused on the theme of spiritual healing.

Artists were asked to submit descriptions of their works to be mounted next to the pieces. These summations added insight to the over-all viewing of the exhibit.

Martine Helwig contributed four works in cole ea conte crayon, pen and ink, and mixed media. She wrote in her description that she began her artistic journey as a child by

drawing pictures from magazines. Gradually, she felt that the determination of the adult artist revealed the “little girl” within, and concluded that this process of self-discovery precedes, yet enhances, the process of spiritual growth.

Naghmeh Ataian, who displayed calligraphic work, wrote that she uses her artistic ability to express her innermost thoughts and feelings. She insisted that the blessing of the gift of art is sharing it with humanity, bringing joy to the heart.

Karen Peterson, who submitted three paintings in oil, wrote that she hopes through her art to convey an ulimate appreciation of the gifts of God that surround us. She noted that both the artistic and spiritual processes affect one’s inner eye by what the outer eye sees, and vice-versa.

Other artists who contributed works were Ruth Alcivar, Sharon Barnes, Nekesa Brooks, Jane Brucker, Michael Constantine, Ahmad Davari, Martin Derbyshire, Shahin Ehsan, Max Henkle, George Hill, Erskine Keary, Mehr Mansuri, Robin Moore and Fashid Tebyani.

me ‘The Conference at Badasht,’ one of six oil paintings by Ivan Lloyd of Tucson, Arizona, that are on semi-permanent display at the Baha'i Center in Denver, Colorado, and will eventually become part of a permanent exhibit at the William Sears Baha'i Center for Learning and the Arts, to be built near Colorado Springs.

More than 150 gather at Denver Baha’i Center to see paintings depicting early history of Faith

More than 150 people gathered February 4 at the Baha'f Center in Denver, Colorado, to meet Ivan Lloyd, an artist from Tucson, Arizona, who was in Denver to exhibit six of his oil paintings, the first in a series of 19 depicting the early history of the Faith.

ie paintings, many measuring six by eight feet, were seen recently in Los Angeles, Tucson and Phoenix, and are to be on semi-permanent display at the Center in Denver before moving eventually to a permanent exhibit at the William Sears Baha'i Center for Learning and the Arts, to be built near Colorado Springs.

Accompanying Mr. Lloyd to Denver were his wife, Lystra, and Marguerite Sears, widow of the Hand of the Cause of God William Sears and executive director of the future William Sears

Baha'i Center.

“Lam very happy that the Center will have the original paintings,” said Mrs. Sears. “They are truly magnificent.”

Mr. Lloyd, a native of Coventry, England, me spent a number of years traveling through Europe, the Middle East and Asia studying Islamic art and Arabic culture, became a Baha'i in 1986.

His most recent works reflect the dramatic and colorful history of the Faith and depict many unforgettable events including “The Unfurling of the Black Standard,” “The Conference of Badasht” and “Tahirih Teaching Women.”

Mr. Lloyd is presently working at his studio in Tucson on the next six paintings in the series of 19.

[Page 35]‘AzamAt B.E. 152 ¢ May 17, 1995. 35

TRL

There’s no rest for the weary.

Members of the Atlanta Baha'i Youth Workshop were looking forward to a much-needed fourweek break after performing at the AT&T “Don’t Hate...Communicate” National Youth Leadership Forum last November.

Then the phone calls and letters started pouring in, asking the group to perform at the annual conference of the National Association for the Education of Youth and Children.

Of course, the Workshop members acquiesced, and after the December 1 performance many of the 500 teachers attending heer around the country expressed how touched they were by the group’s message.

It was that kind of autumn—exhausting but rewarding—for the Workshop.

The whirlwind season started August 27 with a trip to the town of Washington, Georgia, at the invitation of a homefront pioneer family there. An article about the Workshop’s arrival had generated interest, so when the group started performing in the town square a crowd quickly gathered.

Many people approached Workshop members after the performance to ask about the message they had just heard. That evening, the Workshop members led a fireside.

Next, the Workshop performed at the Tennessee Bahd’{ Institute, in an evening that testified to

Atlanta’s Youth Workshop barely pauses for breath

the energizing power of Baha’f love and fellowship.

The following weekend it was back to Atlanta. Workshop members assisted the Northeast and East Cobb Assemblies in passing out invitations for the Dan Seals fireside concert September 17 at Georgia Tech. The Workshop also had the bounty of opening the program, attended by around 500 Bahda’is, their friends, and seekers.

On October 9, the Workshop set off on another weekend trip, this time to Clemson, South Carolina. The youth had been invited to perform at Clemson University's second annual Festival of African American Literature and the Arts.

The performance was well received and the Workshop members were able to share the message of Baha’u’llah with many of those who had gathered for the festival. That evening the youth enjoyed fellowship with Clemson-area Baha’is, and the next morning they attended a devotional service that closed the event.

The following Sunday, the Workshop performed at the Children’s Interfaith Service at the First Presbyterian Church. The program, sponsored by the Atlanta/Fulton County Commission on Youth and Children, was held in conjunction with the annual national observance of the Children’s Sabbath.

Representatives from several area churches, synagogues and mosques took part. Readings from sev eral religions including the Baha’i Faith were shared. Two local television stations recorded and later broadcast parts of the program.

The response to the Workshop’s performance was overwhelming. Many people surrounded the Workshop members to ask questions. Several of the speakers also asked how they could get the Workshop to perform for their youth groups and Sunday schools.

On aThureday, October 20, in observance of the anniversary of the Birth of the Bab, several Workshop members put together a care basket for the Atlanta Women and Children’s Center.

That Sunday, the Workshop performed at a celebration of United Nations Day co-sponsored by the Atlanta UN Association and the Spiritual Assembly of Fulton County Central. The program aired out to be a moving celebration of unity in diversity.

And the next evening, the Workshop performed for dignitaries, coordinators and volunteers at the King Week kickoff rally at the King Center in Atlanta. The Workshop was well received and a local radio station interviewed several of its members.

Then it was off to the “Don’t Hate...Communicate” forum and the education conference.

Whew!

New Berlin Baha’is present Community Service Award

In December, the Baha'is of New Berlin, Wisconsin, presented their 1994 Community Service Award to longtime community activist Richard Franz.

Mr. Franz is a member of the Milwaukee Peace Education Committee; a member and former board member of the Waukesha Environmental Action League; a past winner of the Zero Population Growth award; co-founder of the Waukesha chapter of Compassionate Friends, a support group for parents whose children have died; a member and several times president of the Ecology Association of New Berlin; a member of the Waukesha Center for Peace and Justice; and co-recipient with his late wife, Maxine, of the 1991 Waukesha YWCA Cristoph Memorial Peace Maker award.

Besides honoring Mr. Franz, the Baha'is made a donation to “Trees for Life” in memory of Mrs. Franz.

St. Louis PI rep quoted in women’s newspaper

Dorothy Davison, secretary of the Baha'i Public Information Office of St. Louis, Missouri, was among a number of women of various faiths quoted in an article entitled “Religion: Women Working in Faith” which appeared last November in a local newspaper, U.S. Women.

Mrs. Davison spoke about the Faith's emphasis on the importance of educating women, the concept of collective leadership, and the bedrock principle of consultation.

Young Baha’i discusses Holy Days on radio program

Last December 24, Vanessa Ring, a 15-year-old Baha'i from Exeter, New Hampshire, was a guest on “Seacoast Family,” an hour-long radio program on WZNN in Rochester, Vermont.

She joined two Jewish teen-agers and one Jehovah's Witness to discuss what it is like to grow up in a family that doesn't celebrate Christmas.

Miss Ring described Baha'i Holy Days and Ayydm-i-Ha, and spoke about the need to respect those of all faiths.

When asked about the role of the Faith in her life, she spoke about the independent investigation of truth, the struggle to grow spiritually day by day, and the need for every soul to recognize the Messenger of God for this

Day.

The program host read a brief summary of the Faith from the World Book Encyclopedia.

Faith’s approach to race unity shared with Detroit groups

On February 20, two Baha'is from Detroit, Michigan, made a presentation on the Baha'i approach to race unity to the Birmingham-Bloomfield Task Force on Race Relations and Ethnic Diversity.

About 20 leaders of various religious and civic groups attended. Azar Alizadeh is the Baha'i representative on the Task Force.

One result of the meeting was that three organizations agreed to co-sponsor the Model of Racial Unity Conference planned by the Baha'is for May 20 at Detroit's Cobo Hall.

Two of the groups also agreed to conduct workshops at the conference.

Festive Centenary program draws 43 in Edinburg, Texas

Last November 14, the Baha'is of Edinburg, Texas, invited Baha'is and seekers from nearby communities to join them in observing the anniversaties of the Birth of Baha'u'llah and the establishment of the Faith in North America.

The festive occasion brought together 43 people from nine communi

ties, among whom were eight seekers. A special guest was Margaret Serna of Corpus Christi, who in 1970 became the first person to accept the Faith in south Texas. She was accompanied by her son, Marcos.

Following a potluck supper, the gathering was uplifted by songs and devotional readings, after which Ned Sinclair spoke briefly about how the spread of the Faith to the West was foreshadowed in the writings of both Baha'u'llah and the Bab.

After dramatic presentations by Ann Maus on Carrie Kinney's first encounters with the Faith, and by the Cholas family on Thornton Chase and his good friend, John Bosch, the evening ended with cooperative games an music.

Spiritual heritage is topic of lecture by Dr. Bushrui

Dr. Suheil Bushrui, who holds the Baha'i Chair for World Peace at the University of Maryland, presented a lecture last November 1 at the University of Delaware, using examples taken from Eastern and Western literature, philosophy and religion to demonstrate that humanity has a profound and unifying spiritual heritage, a heritage that we have all but lost.

lodern technology, he explained, while offering the human race the greatest opportunities for advancement the world has ever known, will destroy us unless channeled by the social values and ethical concepts that can come only from those spiritual teachings that stand at the foundation of every society.

At the conclusion of Dr. Bushrui's

resentation, the audience of students, faculty, staff and community members from throughout the Delaware Valley gave him a standing ovation.

The program was taped by the university's Office of Public Relations for later radio broadcast.

Dr. Bushrui, a native of Palestine, is internationally known for his work in conflict resolution and is a recognized scholar of Anglo-Irish, English and Arabic literature.

Before joining the University of Maryland's Center for International Development and Conflict Management, he served from 1971-84 as head of the Department of English at the American University in Beirut.

Youth Service Corps leads new L.A. service program

Baha'is in Los Angeles are preparing to turn faith into action through a newly formed Baha’i Service Corps program that will serve the community at large as well as the community of

the Greatest Name.

Created by the local Spiritual Assembly, the Service Corps will allow individuals to apply the principles of the Faith to various service-related activities designed to raise the quality of human life.

The program is aimed primarily at community youth, but is designed for everyone—young and old—to arise in the spirit of unity and service.

Said one member of the Assembly: “There is an interconnectedness to all of our teaching activities, and these new areas of service should also be considered as connected to the Baha’i community and its teaching efforts.”

Coordinators of the Service Corps are Brian Bullock (818-709-1779) and Larry Ogron (213-876-1940).

[Page 36]

ATION AND SCHOOLS

Tue AmericAN BAHA'I

36

COMPLETE LISTING OF BAHA’f SUMMER SCHOOLS

BOSCH

500 Comstock Lane; Santa Cruz, CA 95060; phone: (408) 423-3387; fax: (408) 423-7564; Internet e-mail:

Week 1, June 24 - July 1

Choral Training Session, Teaching Through the Arts, with Tom Price

Applications required for attendance.

Week 2, July 2-6

Becoming Teachers of the Cause with Dr. Lameh Fananapazir

Learn to present the Baha’f Faith to others. Teaching materials will be provided for each attendee.

A Voyage into the Mystical Ream with Derek Cockshut

A new course developed around prayer and meditation.

Can I Really Pioneer? with Office of Pioneering, Bahd't National Center and Artist in Residence, Geraldine Robarts

An opportunity to ask questions and talk to former and present pioneers.

Week 3, July 8-13

Partnership Between Women & Men, An Important Key for Fulfilling America’s Spiritual Destiny with Rebequa Getahoun Murphy

Study with the NSA’s Representative to the United Nations

A Voyage into the Mystical Realm with Derek Cockshut

Rubi Deepening and Consolidation Methods with Ruth and Milton Breton and Artist Geraldine Robarts

Become familiar with and experience this method in action.

Week 4, July 15-20

Creating a Vision for Spiritual Development with Leonard Smith

‘This intensive workshop is designed to help parpants develop and refine their personal vision for spiritual growth and to develop realistic strategies for implementation.

The Special Destiny of America with Azadeh and Nabil Fares

A course designed to increase your love for Bahd’u’llah and develop a commitment to act. A Voyage into the Mystical Realm with Derek Cockshut

Special Program: Raising a Generation of Prejudice Free Children

Race Unity Training, part of the Core Curriculum for Children’s Spiritual Education with LeNise Jackson-Gaertner and Sandy Coleman

Learn how to be a vital force in raising a generation of prejudice free children Week 5, July 22-27

Achieving Unity In Spite of Race with Gloria Haithman-Ali

The Destiny of America is the destiny of the family of man. Until America solves. its racial problem, the world will not have peace.

Historical Aspects of the Tablets of the Divine Plan with Javidukht Khadem

‘The Meaning of Sacrifice, Importance of the Arc on God’s Holy Mountain, and the Relationship of the Individual to the World Order of Baha’u'll4h

A Voyage into the Mystical Realm with Derek Cockshut

Weeks 5-8

Summer Youth Institute Programs

This summer, Bosch will offer three types of youth programs, from 7th grade into college. All institutes are disciplined, educational programs that offer intellectual, physical, and spiritual disciplines. The methods of training include lecture, study, and discussion as well as physical exercise, prayer and service projects. Week 5, July 22-27

College Youth Institute with Sean Lurie Graduated high school seniors

Week 6, July 29-August 3

Youth Institute with Traci & Larry Gholar Entering 10th - 12th grade in Fall

Week 7 August 5-10

Junior Youth Institute with Margie & Gary Bulkin Entering 7th - 9th grade in Fall

Week 8, August 12-17

Junior Youth Institute with Joanie & James Yuille Entering 7th - 9th grade in Fall

Week 9, August 19-24

The Ocean of My Words with Dr. John 8. Hatcher “Literary Tools for Understanding the Revelation of Baha'u'llah” is based on his forthcoming book.

The Heroine of a Thousand Faces with Jaleh Joubine-Khadem

This course will cover the history of women’s quest for freedom and equality from the 1850s to the present, citing examples of heroic women of East and West.

The Mystical Background of Bahd'u'lldh’s “Seven Valleys” with Mozhan Khadem

This course draws upon the tradition of Persian mystical Sufi poetry, with special emphasis on the works of Attar in order to better understand Baha’u'lléh’s mystical language. Adult Intensive Course with Keven Brown

This course is offered to assist the friends to develop their research skills and Baha’f scholarship. Week 10, August 26-31

Spiritual Transformation of the Individual with Margaret Kunz Rube

A course that will define the reality of man, use of prayer and meditation, building a good character by acquiring virtues, and engendering the spirit of teaching, pioneering and service.

Social Transformations of our Global Society with Dr. David S. Ruhe

Will focus on the state of the world, “The Lip of the Millennium,” Baha’f Tools for Peace, “In

terdependence 2001: Role of the Baha’ Faith,” “Baha’u'llsh: Baghdad Days” and “Proofs of the Supreme Prophet.”

Introduction to Babd't Community Social & Economic Development (SED) with Dr. Alfred Neumann

Will include history and spiritual basis for Bah’ SED. Study will include the October 1983 and September 1993 letters on SED from the Universal House of Justice.

A Voyage into the Mystical Ream with Derek Cockshut

September 1-4

Annual Labor Day Weekend

The Arts And Teaching with Susan Wright Lewis Many guest artists, here for the Media & Arts Colloquium occurring simultaneously, will be participating. Tom Price, Jack Lenz, Fred Badiyan (film maker), plus others will assist guests to share their love of art and of teaching.

Media & Arts Colloquium

Guest professionals in art and production fields will puc together an Arts Colloquium for production of art media. Program invitational.

GREEN ACRE

188 Main Street; Eliot, ME 03903-1827; phone: (207) 439-7200; fax: (207) 439-7202; Internet e-mail:

Session 1, June 30 - July 4

World Unity Festival

Reminiscent of the early years at Green Acre, this program will be dedicated to the theme of universal peace and the oneness of humanity. Session 2, July 7 - 9

Persian-American Conference - “The Life And Writings Of The Bab” with Habib Riazati and Abang Rabbani.

Classes will be presented in English. A special weekend for in-depth discussion of the history of the Babs Dispensation, the life of the Bab and features of His Revelation.

Session 3, July 9 - 14

“Bahé't World Center: Metropolis Of God's King

dom On Earth” with Stephen and Sharon Karnik ‘The session will explore Shoghi Effendi’s vision of the Baha’ World Center as the geographical, spiritual and administrative heart of the planet. “Opportunities At Our Doorstep . .. Seeking Confidence, Strength And Bounties” with Dr. Taherch Ahdich, Auxiliary Board Member

A discussion on how to achieve success in teaching our neighbors, coworkers, teachers and friends . . . all those who we interact with everyday in our own hometowns. Youth Institutes

This educational program provides a structured environment for the study of the Writings with application to major issues confronting youth today. Includes a variety of instructional methods. Session 3, July 9 - 15

Green Acre Youth Institute, Grades 9 - 12 Session 4, July 16 - 22

Green Acre Junior Youth Institute, Grades 6 - 8 Session 4, July 16 - 21

“Reality And Action: A Teaching Workshop” with Morris Taylor

An experential workshop focusing on creating and furthering individual initiatives in teaching.

“Gleanings Of Pilgrimage” with Ethel And Lacy Crawford

An extraordinary opportunity for an armchair visit or for rekindling memories of pilgrimage experience with friends who served for 24 years in the Holy Land.

Session 5, July 23 - 28

“The Perfect Exemplar” with Ahang Rabbani This course will survey the entire life of the Master, focusing on many aspects of His life

previously unavailable co the English-speaking audience. “Creating Distinctive Families: A Challenge In These Times” with Jane Faily Discover and apply the spiritual principles that will distinguish our families from the society in which we live as a prerequisite to the transformation of the American culture. Session 5, July 23 - 28 Core Curriculum Teacher Training Session with Nancy Modern and Liz Labelle Training for teachers in the Core Curriculum for the Spiritual Education of Children, developed by the National Bahé’{ Education Task Force under the guidance and direction of the National Spiritual Assembly. Admission requires recommendation by LSA or member of the Auxiliary Board. Session 6, July 30 - August 4 Green Acre Choral Institute with Tom Price Workshops offering specialized training in voice, choral conducting, administration of Baha’é choirs, music composition and songwriting. Session 6, July 30 - August 4 “The Majestic Process Of The Illumination Of The Planet” with John Kolstoe The Guardian described a ten-part “Majestic Process” from the “Adamic Cycle” through the “Kingdom of God on Earth.” This comprehensive course will examine the cycles, ages, stages and epochs outlined in this process as a part of the evolution of the world commonwealth of Baha'u'llah. Session 7, August 6 - 11 “Magnify His Name... Using Media To Proclaim The Message!” with Bob Harris Explore the appropriate use of media to promote the Faith in this hands-on workshop. Participants will define a media message, develop a framework and action plan for their home community, and leave inspired knowing the power the media has to multiply, amplify and magnify the efforts of unified Bah4’{ communities. “Consultation” with John Kolstoe Explore the spiritual essence of consultation and its application in decision making and conflict resolution as it applies to the individual, family, Bah’ community and the world at large through lively practice sessions in this popular workshop course. “United Nations Year Of Tolerance And The Bahd't Perspective” with Barbara Harris, Janet And Rodney Richards Workshop of hands-on activities and study. Session 8, August 13 - 18 “The Role Of The Family In The Future Of America: United By Destiny” with Auxiliary Board Member Jack Guillebeaux and Fafar Guillebeaux Examine how the Writings and the tools of social science can enable us to translate the Baha’ teachings on marriage and family into “reality and action.” “The Role Of Love In America’s Spiritual Destiny” with Michael Penn and Kathy Penn An inspirational course that will explore the concept and power of love as described in the Baha’ Writings. Special focus will be on the importance of love in realizing America’s unfolding spiritual destiny. Session 9, August 20 - 25 "God Still Loves Laughter! A Joyful Journey To Spiritual Enrichment” with Auxililary Board Member Eugene Andrews Prepare for a transforming journey through the Writings as this practical and happy workshop explores the path to happiness and spiritual enichment. “The World's Awakening: Humanity Comes Of Age” with Mildred Mottahedeh A thought-provoking examination of the challenges facing humanity as we approach the dawning of the Lesser Peace. Will explore the end of an era governed by the pursuit of power and wealth, and the beginning of a new age of spiritual awakening.

[Page 37]“Azamat B.E. 152 / May 17, 1995.

37

EDUCATION AND SCHOOLS

How wonderful it would be if all the friends could arrange to spend at least a few days in one of these summer schools. . . on behalf of Shoghikffendi

Above-Sarah Farmer Inn at Green Acre, Top left-Bosch office building and library complex, Bottom left-Picnic area at Louhelen

LOUHELEN

3208 South State Road; Davi: MI 484238603; phone: (810) 653-5033; fax: (810) 6537181; Internet e-mail:

May 26 - 29

Core Curriculum Teacher Training with Charlotte and Bill Joyner

Intended for teachers of Bahd’{ children’s the workshop explores the station, responsi ties, and standards of the Baha’{ teacher; spiritual reality and spiritual growth of the child; the concept of the “child-development centered community”; and the ages 6-12 Core Curriculum and lesson building from its content.

May 26 - 28

Local Spiritual Assembly Development with Auxiliary Board member Dr. June Thomas and Auxiliary Board member Dr. Curtis Russell

A special weekend workshop intended for members of Local Spiritual Assemblies.

June 2-4

Equality of Men and Women with Auxiliary Board Member Dr. Hoda Mahmoudi, Geraldine Roberts, and Susan Lewis-Wright

Collaboration between women and men fosters equality, a prerequisite to peace, and both women and men are warmly invited to participate.

June 9-14

Rubi Tutor Training with Lorna Bergner, Kathleen Colucci-Russell, and Ilya Brecque

TI Institute training process focuses on patory study of the Creative Word,

fostering effective teaching institutes in home communities; the empowerment generated by the Creative Word.

June 9-17

Louhelen Youth Institute with Lorna Bergner, Michael Naylor, and Dr. Rick Johnson

For ages 15-21, offering serious individual and group study of the Baha't Writings; exploration of the role of arts and music in teaching the Cause; participation in the Ruhi Institute process for effective teaching.

June 18 - 24

Camp Louhelen with Carol McKeil and Allan McKeil

For ages 8-12, offering study of the Baha’ teachings using Core Curriculum themes and approaches.

July 21 - 26

Family and Friends Session 1 with Dr. John Hatcher, Dr. Willian Hatcher, and Susan Engle A family-oriented session of loving fellowship for all ages, offering adult courses, “The Structure of Reality,” and “The Kitdb-i-Aqdas: Causality in the World of Being”; study of the Baha’ Writings as they relate to the Destiny of America; and a full children’s program.

July 28 - August 2

Family and Friends Session 2 with Dr. Habib Riazati and Janelle Heiss

ly-oriented session of loving fellowship an adult course on “The erica”; study of The Advent of study of the Kitéb-i-Aqdas in light of America’s destiny; and a full children’s program.

August 4 - 9

Family and Friends Session 3 with Dr. Michael Penn, Kathy Penn, Lorelei McClure, and Joe Crone A family-oriented session of loving fellowship for all ages, offering adult courses on “The Role of Love in America’s Spiritual Destiny,” and “The Power of Prayer”; study of community and family life in light of America’s destiny; and a full children’s program.

August 11 - 16

Youth Eagle Institute with Dr. Ahang Rabbani, Michael Naylor, and Barbara Nelson

Youth ages 15-21 will find this remarkably rich session offers dynamic integration of spiritualization, active learning, fellowship; interactive learning and group consultation; arts and music; fellowship and fun.

August 18 - 20

Multi-Cultural Family Camp with Dr. James Malarky and Nadia Malarky

A family-oriented session of loving fellowship for all ages, offering age-integrated, whole-family classes for Baha’is and their friends. September 1-4

Homecoming with Dr. William Roberts, member of the Continental Board of Counselors and Dr. Richard Thomas

A family-oriented session of loving fellowship for all ages, offering adult course on “The Destiny of America”; featuring the “Annual One Planet Music afternoon family-oriented recreation; and a full children’s program.

REGIONAL SCHOOLS California (Southern), July 21-24

The Tablets of the Divine Plan, with Counselor Wilma Ellis; Highland Resort at Cherry Valley; Contact Edye York, 909/983-1022 Colorado (East), August 10-13

The Destiny of America. All childrens’ classes will feature teachers trained in Core Curriculum; Newton Ranch, near Denver; Contact John Bolz, 303/666-9275

Colorado (West) / Four Corners School, July 19-23

‘The Destiny of America; Kamp Kiwanis, south of Gallup, NM, in the Zuni Mountains; Contact Bill Bright, Gallup, NM 87301-6453, 505/722-0039

Florida (Southern Flame Baha’i

School), June 30 - July 4

The Destiny of America: A Call to Transformation and Action with National Spiritual Assembly member Jack McCants, Bob Harris, Joy

Degruy-Leary, Dr. Behrouz Sabet, Zabine

Linkins; Florida Institute of Technology,

Melbourne, Florida; Contact Martha Marshall, Plantation, FL 33322 5265, 305/426-0991 or 305/236-0482

Georgia, August 4-6

The Spiritual Destiny of America; Covington,

GA; Contact LaVont Steele,

Marietta, GA 30068

Illinois (Heartland), July 19-23

The Destiny of America: A

mation and Action with Auxiliary Board mem ber Dr. Curtis Russell and Parent Facilitation

Beste Ciladalluna waxkshopay Knox College!

Galesburg, Illiniois; Contact Carl Clingenpeel, Aurora, IL 60504, 708/

Yall to Transfor

898-6385 Towa, August 11-15 America’s Spiritual Destiny: The Joy of ‘Abdu'lBahd with hands-on, learning center approach to some adult classes; Briar Cliff College, Sioux City, IA; Contact Don Calkins,

Des Moines, IL 50312, 515/282

7763 Maryland / Virginia (Dayspring School), August 4-7

The Destiny of America: A Call to Transfor

mation and Action with special guest Auxiliary Board member James Sturdivant; Frostburg State University; Contact Ingrid Olson, 703/ 481-8393, Herndon, VA 22070

Mississippi, June 2-4

The Destiny of America; Wilson Inn, 310 Greymont Ave., Jackson, MS 39202; Contact John Smith, 601/638-5175

Montana (John H. Wilcott Baha’i

School), July 30 - August 4

The Destiny of America: Transformation and

ion with Joseph Galata, a Turkish Gypsy

Baha’{; Luccock Park Camp, 10 miles south of

Livingston, MT; Contact Linda Wanzenreid, Lewistown, MT

59457, 406/538-8047 or Kay Maloney at 406/

727-1120, email at

Nebraska (Great Plains Baha’i

School), July 14-17

The Destiny of Amerca; Camp Comeca, at

Cozad exit off I-80; Contact aylor, North Platte, NE 69101, 308/

534-4939

New York (Soloman Hilton Baha’i School), August 11-20

The Destiny of America; Oakwood School,

Poughkeepsie, NY; Contact Stephanie Jaczko, Newburgh, NY 914/566-7864

North Carolina, June 30 - July 3 Baha’ Community Life: Door to the Future; Mount Olive College, Mount Olive, North Carolina; Contact Sandra Mil Winston/Salem, NC 27105, 910/

767-6888 Oregon (East), August 24-27

America’s Spiritual Destiny; Meadowood Speech Camp, Weston, OR (office phone 503/ 276-2752; Contact Shelley Hines,

Island City, OR 97850, 503/962

0815

Oregon (West), August 9-13

‘The Destiny of America; Camp Myrtlewood, 3 miles south of Bridge, Oregon; Contact Norman

Ives, Coos Bay, OR 97420, 503/267-3157 South Carolina, June 9-11

The Destiny of America: A Call to Transfor mation and Action with Counselor Wilma Ellis,

Mr. Aziz Yazdi, Mr. Eric Dozier; Louis Gre gory Baha’s Institute; Contact Jennie Green,

803/558-5093

Tennessee, September 1-4

Destiny of America, Creating Unity and Build ing Infrastructure; Dubose Conference Center,

Monteagle, ‘'N; Contact Kaihan Strain, Hixson, TX 37343, phone

615/842-1750

Texas, August 10-13 The Destiny of Am based agenda for adults, youth and c Bridgeport Methodist Camp, Bridgeport, Contact Randy Black, 713/996-1935. Washington (Eastern) / Idaho

(Northern), July 1-7

The Destiny of America with empk munity and family life; Camp Woo Washington, 30 miles from Pomeroy; Shannon McConnell,

Richland, WA 99352, 509/943-1236

Wisconsin, July 17-21

The Destiny of Ame A Call to Transfor mation and Action; Byron Center, Brownsville, WI 53006; Contact Lisa

Riemer, West Bend, WI

53095, 414/338-3023

Green Lake Baha’i Conference,

September 15-17

What is this Destiny? Main teachers include members of the National Spiritual Assembly Dr. Robert Henderson, Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh, and Bill Davis. In addition, Aziz Yazdi and Dr. Jena Khadem Khodadad will speak; Green Lake, Wisconsin; 1-800-558-8898 for housing and meal registration

with Core Curri

‘is on com

VOTION, STUDY, RECREATION [Page 38]THe AMERICAN BAHAT 38

NT AES)

EXCELLENCE IN ALL THINGS

A poster created by Baha'f artist, sculptor and author WiniFRED BaRNumNewman of San Antonio, Texas, was unveiled February 21 by the Fiesta San Antonio Com: ion and will be seen by hundreds of thousands of residents and visitors to the city during the Fiesta celebrations. The poster, entitled “Our Diversity Shines,” translates Ms. Barnum-Newman's belief in the oneness of humankind into vibrant colors that pay tribute to various figures familiar to the Southwest.

Hoty Pierce, a young Baha'i from Tigard, Oregon, has been named to Soccer America magazine's 1994 Women's All-Freshman Team for collepiate soccer players. Miss Pierce, a midfielder at the University of Port land, was named freshman of the year in the West Coast Conference.

Hers Vaucuan, a Baha'i from Berea, Ohio, is cited in the seventh edition of the introductory education text, Those Who Can, Teach. Mr. Vaughan started the Baldwin-Wallace College Teacher Education Center on Internet, and has organized and led three training workshops for the American Learning Village program and an ongoing series of telecommunications training workshops for staff at Berea city schools.

Gincer Yates, LPN, a Bahd’{ from Emporia, Kansas, has been named 1995 Nurse of the Year by the Kansas Health Care Association and the Holiday Resort Adult Care and Rehabilitation Center’s “Super Nurse.”

Layut Scuwerin, a 21-year-old Baha’i who attends Spelman College in Atlanta, has won three prestigious scholarships worth a total of $9,000 which she plans to apply to a year of study abroad in Florence, Italy. The scholarship awards were based on her academic excellence, leadership initiative, and community service.

SupaseH Kamau, a Bahd'f who is an 11th-grade student at Plano East High School, has won the first-place award in public speaking for the North Texas region of Health Occupation Students of America for her presentation, “Critical Health-Care Needs by the Year 2000.” The award is presented for content, quality of presentation and creativity.

Pari Over, a 15-year-old Baha‘{ from Coon Rapids, Minnesota, has won the 1995 state all-around championship in gymnastics with the highest score of any gymnast in Minnesota. She was profiled in April on the front page of Sportsweek, a publication of ABC Newspapers.

"AROLYN Emery, a Baha'f from Hartshorne, Oklahoma, recently won second and third place awards for jewelry design in a contest sponsored by Fire Mountain Gems of Cave Junction, Oregon. Second prize was a necklace, third prize a beaded watch band.

Vanessa Rina, a 15-year-old Baha'i from Exeter, New Hampshire, who is a freshman at Exeter High School, took part last November with the school’s cross-country team in a benefit relay race across the state. She was her team’s first-place finisher and won the school’s most valuable runner award.

CuristopHer Mayserry, a young Baha'i from Waukegan, Illinois, recently earned the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest rank in the Boy Scouts of America. Chris, who first became involved in scouting as a Cub Scout, also earned the Baha'f “Unity of Mankind” emblem. He is presently a freshman at the University of Missouri-Rolla where he was named to the honor roll for his first semester.

As a part of the annual Martin Luther King Jr. celebration in Phoenix, Arizona, a young Baha'i, ALeTHEA Turner, won honorable mention for grades 4-8 in a student essay contest sponsored by Arizona State University. The topic, based on Dr. King’s memorable “I Have a Dream” speech of 1963, was “Making the Dream Happen.” An article about the contest in the local newspaper, The Times, mentions that Alethea is a Baha'f.

Dr. Davin M. Eart, a Baha’i from Scottville, Michigan, was recently named the first honorary member of the Esperanto Society of Michigan. Dr. Earl began Srudying Esperanto in the 1920s, later served as an officer of the Esperanto Society of Detroit, and in the ‘50s was published in the American Esperantist magazine.

Nuusna Ziace, a graduating senior at Mt. Carmel High School in San Diego, California, was saluted recently by the local newspaper for her many accomplishments including membership on the varsity tennis team, vicepresidency of the Ecology Club, volunteer work at Palomar Medical Center and involvement with the San Diego Baha'i Youth Workshop.

(ES

Alethea Turner _

Payments for Huqéqu’ll4h should be made to “The Bahé’f Huqdqu'll4h Trust” and sent to one of the Trustees:

Dr. Elsie Austin, 9039 Sligo Creek Parkway, Unit 612, Silver Spring, MD

¢ Dr. Daryush Haghighi, (phone 216-333-1506).

Inquiries regarding Huqdqu’ll4h should be referred to one of the Trustees or to the Office of the Secretariat, Baha'i Huqdqu’llah Trust,

Rocky River, OH 44116.

Santa Monica, CA 90402 (phone 310Rocky River, OH 44116

‘Spiritual Foundations’ study program set to begin in July under Wilmette Institute

To help raise up a generation of knowledgeable, articulate teachers of the Faith, the National Spiritual Assembly has established “Spiritual Foundations for a Global Society,” a four-year study program under the guidance of the Wilmette Institute.

Each year the program will include the following:

¢ A one-month summer residential program at National-Louis University in Wilmette. Residents will study the Faith and related background information in the classroom with experienced, academically ualified Baha’is; guide at the Baha’f House of Wors! take part in projects at the Baha’f National Center; and teach in the Chicago area.

¢ Eleven months of guided selfstudy including developing and carrying out personal teaching and service plans.

The curriculum will include:

¢ Religious and philosophical background (especially Islam) and Baha’{ theology.

Spiritual values for personal development.

¢ The Baha‘i community and the Baha’{ administrative order.

The challenge of establishing a global civilization.

Although designed to allow Baha’is to earn college credit, the program is open to anyone 18 years of age or older who has a high school diploma or its equivalent.

The program will start on July 1. Because space is limited, applications for admission should be made as soon as possible.

For more information, please contact the Wilmette Institute (telephone 708733-3492; fax 708-733-3502; e-mail

Counselor for Australasia Ben Ayala (holding picture of ‘Abdu'l-Bah@) is

pictured with members of the Spiritual Assembly of Portland, Oregon, during the dedication ceremony February 18 for the city's new Haziratu'l-Quds.

More than 250 gather in Portland, OR, for opening of city’s new Baha’i Center

On February 18, more than 250 Baha'is gathered in Portland, Oregon, to dedicate that city's new Haziratu'lQuds.

The ceremony began with an American Indian purification conducted by Sioux Max Defender who was helped by Lionel Pinn.

Aprayer for the departed recognized those whose efforts had led to this momentous day. Other prayers were then offered in Persian, Swahili, Spanish, Chinese, Hmong, French and Hawaiian.

The prayers were interspersed with songs in Spanish and English by sixyear-old Jamal Baghdadi.

Nosratollah Rassekh, chairman of the Spiritual Assembly of Portland, shared excerpts from his forthcoming, book, The History of Charles and Helen Bishop. It was the donation by Mrs. Bishop of her last home to the local Assembly of Portland that allowed for the purchase of the Haziratu'l-Quds.

Mrs. Bishop's sister, Martha Warren, spoke about the divine connection of Mrs. Bishop's life as exemplified by her unerring wisdom in maximizing her financial resources in pursuit of spiritual goals.

The keynote address was then given by Ben Ayala, a member of the Continental Board of Counselors for

Australasia, who deepened those present in the mysterious nature of the power of love and unity.

Afterward, a hand-carved replica of the Greatest Name, rendered by Shapour Meshkin, the great-grandson of famed Baha’ calligrapher Mishkin Qalam, was unveiled.

Two days before the dedication, Assembly members met for supper with William Davis, treasurer of the National Spiritual Assembly, who gave them further insights into the importance of love and unity as standards for establishing the Cause of God on earth.

Since the dedication, an increasing number of believer-generated proposals for various activities has been presented to the local Assembly.—Michael Sears

Sodus Point honors activist

On February 24 the Baha’f Group of Sodus Point, New York, held a reception to honor village resident Art Camarrono for his unselfish dedication to youth in the community and his many acts of kindness toward others.

Mr. Camarrono was given a framed award certificate and an engraved mantel clock. The presentations were made by the Group’s secretary, John Joyce.

Attack on Faith spurs bold proclamation in Detroit

A published attack on the Faith has spurred the Baha’is of Detroit, Michigan, to more boldly proclaim the station of Baha’u’llah.

On March 8, The Michigan Chronicle, a weekly with the largest circulation of any African-American newspaper in the United States, printed a staff writer’s commentary entitled “How Anchored Are You in Your Faith?”

The writer is a sincere Christian who believes in biblical prophecies but does not believe Baha’u’llih fulfills them. Thus, she was troubled by what she heard ina talk at the Baha’f Center on “Unifying Racially Polarized Communities: A Long-Term Systemic Approach.”

In her commentary, she warned readers of “contrary doctrines” that would akon in “the last days” to “deceive people.” The world peace referred to in Bahd‘u'llah’s writings, she said, “will not take place before the coming of Christ.”

Should the Spiritual Assembly of Detroit rebut the article? Auxiliary Board members and assistants were consulted, along with media experts, and the Assembly decided to incorporate a response into its ongoing campaign to achieve ene) by troops.

e first step was to meet with the writer.

She agreed to sit down with Assembly secretary Larry White—although, in her wariness, she asked a security person to be present.

It must have come as quite a shock when Mr. White

presented her with a dozen roses, a letter expressing the Assembly's warm regards for her, and a copy of Thief in the Night!

The Assembly then contacted Chronicle Editor Robert McTyre.

A committee of Bahd’fs appointed by the Detroit Assembly met with Mr. McTyre on April 7. They included Assembly member John Mangum, a retired Detroit homicide detective; Auxiliary Board member June Thomas; Michigan State University professor Richard Thomas, whose talk had precipitated the Chronicle commentary; and Ted Amsden, an attorney.

The editor was friendly and expressed his regret that the article was not more objective in reporting Bahd’‘{ beliefs. He also expressed great respect for the Bahd’fs and their significant work in promoting race unity.

Mr. McTyre asked the Baha’is to submit an article of their own that he would print in the editorial section, and he requested a meeting focusing on how we can promote race unity within our own Faith and with others.

On the subject of race unity, the Baha’is presented Mr. McTyre with the National Spiritual Assembly’s statement, The Vision of Race Unity, and a flier on the Baha‘i-sponsored second annual Model of Racial Unity Conference scheduled for May 20 at Cobo Hall in Detroit.

The committee also presented to Mr. McTyre an annotated copy of The Most Holy Tablet (known as the Tablet to the Christians), a synopsis of Baha’t interpretation of biblical prophecy on the Return of Christ, and two introductory pamphlets, one on Bahd‘u’llah and one on the Baha’i Faith.

But that wasn’t all.

Mr. McTyre was told that, asa result of the Chronicle article, the Baha’fs planned to send The Most Holy Tablet and the synopsis on biblical Prophed tonearly 1,000 ministers in the area to make clear the Station of Baha’u’llah.

The cover letter invites “earnest consideration” of the “claim of Baha‘u’llah, the Glory of God.” A more focused mailing to about a dozen religious leaders requests one-on-one meetings “to share important information” with them.

Accompanying, the letter-writing campaign is a public information blitz known as the Great Announcement Media Campaign—complete with radio interviews and commercials, television commercials, print advertisements, youth performances, and talks at the Baha’{ Center on prophecy.

Because the impact of this proclamation will radiate throughout the region, the Assembly brought other Baha’i communities into the planning. Samples of the mailing to ministers were sent to suburban Assemblies and Groups, and a special meeting was held to invite comment and support.

TELEPHONE NUMBERS

Bahd’i National Center (switchboard) 708-869-9039 The American Baha'i 708-251-1854, ext. 17

Office of Human Resources 708-733-3427

Office of the Treasurer 708-733-3472

Management Information Services 708-733-3456

Membership and Records 708-733-3437

National Teaching Committee 708-733-3498

Office of Pioneering 708-733-3506

Baha Publishing Trust 708-251-1854

Bahd’t Distribution Service 5397 Wilbanks Drive Chattanooga, TN 34373 615-843-1333

Office of External Affairs 1320 19th St. N.W.

Suite 701

Washington, DC 20036 202-833-8990

Office of Public Information U.S./UN Office

866 United Nations Plaza Suite 120

New York, NY 10017 212-756-3500

Bahai Bulletin Board (BNCBBS) 708-869-0389

Bosch Bahé't School 408-423-3387

Green Acre Baha'i School 207-439-7200

Louhelen Baha'i School 810-653-5033

Louis Gregory Baha'i Institute 803-558-5093

Native American Baha’ Institute 602-521-1064

Experimental garden planted at Gregory Institute after ‘Special Regard’ agricultural weekend i in March

An experimental garden has been planted at the Louis G. Gregory Baha’f Institute as a result of a “Special Regard” agricultural weekend held at the Hemingway, South Carolina, school in March.

The garden’s central circle of edible flowers represents the sun. Each ray, representing a religion of God, demonstrates an agricultural method that can be implemented.

Plans for the garden were conceived by an agriculture group formed at the March conference. Richard Pratt, a recently enrolled believer, will head up the program, with help from Institute staff member John Gore.

The group, open to Baha'is and non-Baha’is, is seeking an affiliation with the Agriculture Seminar of the Association for Baha’f Studies.

At the March weekend, participants deepened on Baha’u’lléh’s message about the fundamental importance of agriculture to the “reconstruction of the world.” In the Tablet to the World, Bah4’u'Il4h set forth five “fundamental principles for the administration of the affairs of men.”

“Special regard,” He wrote, “must be given to agriculture. Although it hath been mentioned in the fifth place, unquestionably it precedeth the others,”

World Religion Day observance draws 250 in Scottsdale, AZ

More than 250 people joined the Baha'is of Seatadale ANizonast January 14 for a celebration of World Religion Day.

Besides entertainment and fellowship, the Progen included brief summaries of their faiths' spiritual and social mission by representatives of the Jewish, Hindu, Christian and Baha'f communities.

Planting a special garden at the Louis G. Gregory Baha'i Institute in Hemingway, South Carolina. Richard Pratt, one of the new believers, is pictured second from left.

which are promoting the Lesser Peace, a snieraallaweteee| standards of fellowship, kindness and unity, and subsidies for child education.

Participants also attended workshops on such topics as bio-intensive methods, the Machobane field system from Lesotho, composting, tire gardening, and permaculture. Items in the newly established agriculture library

were reviewed.

WLGI Radio Baha‘{ invited the public to the weekend and interviewed its coordinator, Winnie Merritt. Teachers who went out from the Institute to the surrounding area during the special “Fast teaching” project found great interest in the agriculture project and in Bahd’u’llah’s message on the high station of the farming profession.

First class/ 1Year 2/Years Surface $24 $45 Air Mail $32 $60

Te American BanA'i

Subscription rates (For outside the continental United States ONLY)

All orders must be pre-paid in U.S. currency. VISA/MasterCard accepted; please include full account number and expiration date.

Please make check payable to: Baha'i Subscriber Service, c/o Bahda'{ National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

[Page 40]40

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[Page 43]‘AzamAt B.E. 152 ¢ May 17,1995 43

IN MEMORIAM

Baha'is of Detroit, Grosse Pointe co-sponsor talk by nurse on ‘Bridging Health Care Gap’

On January 28, the Baha'is of Detroit and Grosse Pointe, Michigan, co-sponsored a talk entitled “Bridging the Health Care Gap: Race, Gender and Class” by Prof. Patricia ColemanBurns of the University of Michigan School of Nursing who also serves as director of the university's Office of Multicultural Affairs.

About 35 people, most of whom were not Baha'is, attended. One of the guests, who is director of the African Heritage Cultural Center of the Detroit

Correction

Owing to a clerical error, the name Enayatullah Amiri of Montecito, California, appeared February 7 in the “In Memoriam” listing in The American Baha'i. We are pleased to report that Mr. Amiri is alive and well in Montecito, and regret the error.

Public Schools, said, “Despite the small numbers of Baha'is, you are really having a major impact [on race relations].”

Among other non-Bahd'is in the audience were a professor of nursing from Wayne State University, the program director of the Greater Detroit Interfaith Roundtable, and the vicepresident of a nearby hospital.

Mayor Dennis Archer of Detroit sent a letter expressing his regrets but asked to be kept on the mailing list for future programs.

The president of the Cranbrook Peace Foundation also wrote to compliment the Baha'is on their continuing efforts to improve race relations.

Music by harpist Onita Sanders was made available by a bequest from the estate of Daniel Stella, a non-Baha'{ lawyer who had attended one of the first programs in the series and wished to see it continue.

Long-time Baha’i Helen Hammond dead at 102

Helen Johnston Hammond, who helped form the first Spiritual Assembly of Winnetka, Illinois, died January 13 in Chicago. She was 102 years old.

Mrs. Hammond, an educator, was the first woman named to the Governor's Commission for the Aging in Illinois, and served for many years on the board of the Old People’s Home of

Luella McKay, Knight of Baha’u’llah

Chicago before becoming a resident there.

She had four children, all of whom became Baha'fs and one of whom, prominent Chicago architect James Hammond, served with her husband, Robert Hammond, on the Temple Planning Committee.

Taraz Lee lights the first of seven candles at the third annual interracial celebration of Kwanzaa sponsored January 1 by the Baha'is of Manhattan Beach, California. Kwanzaa, which originated in Los Angeles in the 1960s, is intended as a celebration of African-American culture and community. The program in Manhattan Beach included readings from the Baha'i writings on unity; music by the Los Angeles Baha'i Gospel Choir; a brief lecture on AfricanAmerican dance by Anthony Lee, professor of African-American history at Cypress College, fellowship and refreshments including morsels taken by participants from a common loaf of Ethiopian honey bread.

IN MEMORIAM

to Spanish Morocco, dies at age 76

Luella McKay, a Knight of Baha’u’llah to Spanish Morocco, died April 15 in Southfield, Michigan. She was 76 years old.

Mrs. McKay was born in Portland, Oregon, in October 1918 and became a Baha'i at age 25 in 1943. At the request of the Guardian, she pioneered during the Ten Year Crusade to Spanish Morocco, becoming, on October 24, 1953, the first Baha’{ to set foot in that country.

Except for a stay of five months on the island of Fernando Po in Equatorial Guinea during 1955, she remained at her post until April of 1959.

Mrs. McKay, a cosmetologist, established the first

certified school of cosmetology for inmates at the Detroit House of Corrections.

Upon learing of Mrs. McKay’s passing the following cable was sent to the National Assembly of the United States:

Saddened loss devoted Knight of Baha’u’llah Luella McKay. Her pioneering activities in Africa, including Spanish Morocco and Spanish Guinea, warmly remembered. Praying Holy Shrines progress her soul Abha Kingdom.

Kindly convey our condolences her friends and family.

The Universal House of Justice

19th Annual Conference Association for Baha’i Studies in North America

ANARCHY INTO ORDER: UNITING THE NATIONS

Themes: * Human Rights * Advancement of Women

Moral Development ¢ Global Prosperity

INTO ORDER

TT aad DEC

October 12-15 1995 Hyatt Regency Hotel at San Francisco Airport, California

Registration ‘SW Hotel: Hyatt Regency at San Francisco Airport. Call 1-800-233-1234, ask for “Association for Baha'i Studies (ABS) Conference” rates of $95/night single/double; $105 triple; $115 quad. Register early since limited rooms available at our special rates. ‘W Airline: United Airlines (Event #589MC): 1-800-521-4041. Air Canada (Event #CV951222): |-800-361-7585. Only these two airlines offer our special discount fares if you refer to the event number listed above. ‘& Conference: Call the ABS-Ottawa, Canada office to register to attend the conference: (613) 233-1903. ‘& Send presentation/paper proposals as soon as possible to Conference Co-Conveners: Sheila Banani: Santa Monica, CA 90402. Fax: (310) 394-6167 e-mail: or Dr. Robert Stockman: Research Office, Baha’ National Center, Wilmette IL 60091 Fax: (708) 733-3563 e-mail:

Fredericka Anderson Poughkeepsie, NY January 30, 1995 Lois F. Bauer Anderson, CA December 8, 1994

Arthur L. Bolden Renton, WA January 29, 1995

Eleanor Booth Philadelphia, PA February 5, 1995 William Burgess Jr. Wilmington, DE March 30, 1995 Curtice Cottrell Toledo, OH

March 4, 1995 Essie Dean

Ninety Six, SC March 10, 1995 Donna Lee Ertl Indianapolis, IN March 26, 1995

Khadijeh Gandomi Mesa, AZ February 23, 1995

Michael Hampton Grand Rapids, MI September 13, 1994

Jeanne Janus West Newton, MA January 16, 1995

Russell Jurgens Richardson, TX March 13, 1995

Evelyn Kortum Nuevo, CA March 20, 1995

Hazel Magnusson Peoria, IL

April 7, 1995 Richard Markovich St. Helena Isl., SC February 28, 1995

Anne Miller Whitwell, TN February 27, 1995

August Millet Laplace, LA March 11, 1995

Mahboubeh Moayad Valparaiso, IN January 16, 1995 Florence Osborne Richmond, VA March 7, 1995

Sarah M. Pereira Matthews, NC April 5, 1995

John Porterfield Quincy, CA

March 3, 1995

Mary E. Ray Tucson, AZ February 18, 1995 Badi’u’llah Samadani Mountain View, CA March 18, 1995 Willis Spratling Jr. Rochester, NY March 13, 1995

Odell Spease Tobaccoville, NC April 12, 1994

J.T. Steenbergen Longview, WA March 17, 1995, Wilma Stevens Buffalo, NY December 23, 1994

Anna Louise B’Taylor Richmond, CA January 20, 1995 Gerald Warner Fresno, CA

February 22, 1995 Adolph Wielk

Santa Rosa, CA January 17, 1995

[Page 44]THe AMERICAN BAHA'I 44

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

MAY

26-28: Local Spiritual Assembly Development Weekend, Louhelen Baha'i School. For information, phone 810-653-5033.

26-28: 22nd annual Conference of Nur, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Theme: “My Role in the Divine Plan.” Cost: $70 for adults, $35 for 4-8 year olds. Registration deadline: May 1. Pre-registration is a must; no walk-ins. Attendance is limited to 420. For information, phone 717-390-1988 after 5 p.m. (ES

26-29: Core Curriculum Teacher Training, Louhelen Bahé formation, phone 810-653-5033.

26-29: Memorial Day weekend program, “Projecting the Baha’ Society” and hands-on workshop for Public Information Representatives (with Robert Harris and Trish Swanson), Green Acre Baha'i School. For information, phone 207-439-7200.

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

On January 26, the Committee for the Celebration of Humanity, a program committee of the Baha'i House of Worship Activities Office, was recognized by 27-30: Marriage Enrichment Retreat, ninth annual Memorial Day weekend the City of Chicago Commission on Human Relations during the Commission's session for couples, Bosch Baha'f School. For information, phone 408-423-3387. 50th anniversary Awards Luncheon at the Chicago Hilton and Towers. The committee was honored for its efforts “to recognize and encourage individuals JUNE

and associations that celebrate the rich diversity of humanity” including the 2-4: Northeastern Latino Conference, “Promoting Entry by Troops Among, annual David Kellum Awards “to dynamic, positive role models for youth of all Latinos,” Green Acre Baha’f School (in Spanish). For information, phone 207races.” Pictured (left to right) are committee members Amy Johnson, Walter 439-7200.

Mays, Melinda Weaver, Puran Stevens and Lorelei McClure, director of the 2-4: Mississippi Baha’{ School, Wilson Inn, Jackson. Contact John Smith, Baha'i House of Worship. Vicksburg, MS 39180-5249 (phone 601-636-8628).

2-4: Family Fest, Palmer, Alaska. For details, phone 907-345-3740 or fax 907 a a a a a a eo =] 345-3739.

To avoid mmncccsary delays ia receiving The American Rak, 5: National Teaching Campaign opens, Anchorage, Alaska. For detai Bote scod ll fanilyrcbers nmes, ow ein ad main be 907-345-3740 or fax 907-345-3439.

TELLUS YOUR ||» Masegeneal inturmation Services, Bek Nasceel Coster 123), ITA /Baha'i Youth Service Corps/Pioneering Institute, Bahd'{ National el pose ang art ippaematcrricn any ae ‘aha & ps/Pioneering Institute, Bahd’{ National INEW ADDRESS.:| © <a" soar tauaaes taleas @) mode tmeliaetooe mee Center. For information, contact the Office of Pioneering, Baha'f National Cenweeks for processing (This uso update Nationals daa baz) ter, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-733-3512; fax 708-733-3509).

9-11: South Carolina Baha’{ School, Louis Gregory Baha’ Institute, Heming

Is, phone

A. NAME(S):

| | | | | sembly Team Development Weekend (for Assemblies only), Bosch | Baha'{ School. For information, write to the Bosch School, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, phone 408-423-3387, or fax 408-423-7564. | 15-18: Alaska Baha’i Summer School, Haines. For details, phone 907-345-3740 | or fax 907-345-3739. Hemlock Haven Baha’f School, Hungry Mother State Park, Marion, | Concurrent youth retreat June 151-18. For information: Sarah Jane Lee, | P.O. Box 2165, Lebanon, VA 24266 (703-889-0445) or Clint Dye (703-873-6754). I Northwest Bah. ucators' Conference, Yakima County, Washington. Addressing areas of concern to professional Baha'f educators in the work— | place and at Baha'i schools. For information, phone Randie Gottlieb, 509-454‘Street address: P.O. Box or Other mailing address | 3662, or e-mail Rhett Diessner, | | | | | | | | |

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B. NEW RESIDENCE ADDRESS: C. NEW MAILING ADDRESS:

18: “Operation Patchwork,” Race Unity Day festival, lowa State Fairgrounds. For information, phone 515-263-2778 or 515-961-0605 (leave message if necessary) B: 5: Fourth annual Southeast Asian Community Builders Roundtable Dis— cussion conference, Baha’{ Center, Fresno, California. For information, phone 708-733-3523. 24-25: “Color Me Human” Race Unity Festival including a Jazz Tribute to

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= ; sae ae Dizzy Gillespie, Variety Playhouse, Atlanta, Georgia. Featuring James Moody fb: Nem Connery: ee ee and Mike Longo. Guest speaker: Robert C. Henderson. Also, a multicultural

| music and dance extravaganza, noon Sunday, Grant Park. Sponsored by the

[__ Rive of now Baht Community Moving date] Arcacode Phone mabe ine Baha‘fs of Atlanta. For information, phone 404-255-8930 or 404-998-8228.

24-July 1: Choral Training Session with Tom Price, Bosch Bahd't School. Applications required for attendance. Choir will present a public performance on June 30. No activities for smaller children. Write to the Bosch School, 500 Com

| F: WORK TELEPHONE NUMBER(S):

| rs code Phone ame Name ‘oa cote jac tier ny stock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, phone 408-423-3387, or fax 408-423-7564.

= = rn - 24-July 2: Baha'i Youth Workshop/Teaching Week, Salt Lake City, Utah. For | G. WE RECEIVE EXTRA COPIES BECAUSE: H. 1 WOULD LIKE A COPY: information, phone 801-582-3135 or 801-582-2026. 1 [2 we do not nave the same ast mame. [J the last names and aiesses on our | [—] Ourhouscholdreceivesonlyonecopy | 25-28: Teacher-Trainer Workshop, Louhelen Baha'i School. For information, I cocoa Ns cory jas paste) walk: “tind sborventubammectaNGariyamer|| -nolhoy ooacipy Ther bach semn phone 810-653-5033; fax 810-653-7181.

ponaber) lined bore : I earache eve . 30-July 3: North Carolina Baha’s School, Mt. Olive College. Theme: “Oneness | | | of Humanity: America’s Destin rar: Sandra Miles,

Winston-Salem, NC 27105; phone 910-767-6888. JULY

1-2: “Color Me Human’ teaching conference and campaign, Salt Lake City, Utah. Dedicated to raising the first generation of children free from prejudice. For hotel reservations, phone 800-453-9450 and ask for the Color Me Human conference rate. For information, write to Color Me Human Conference, P.O. Box 58305, Salt Lake City, UT 84158, or phone 801-582-3135 or 801-582-2026.

1-4: Colorado East Summer School, Beaver Ranch, Conifer. Contact John Bolz,

Lafayette, CO 80026; phone 303-666-9275. HuabsToadadialdad ered be aU salbeidaaballaallal 2-6: “Becoming Teachers of the Cause,” “A Voyage into the Mystical Realm,” AURA TOSUOOSUUURESASGLDRARAAN PO APOSTASSLABLEAAE SUL “Can I Really Pioneer,” general session for all ages, Bosch Bahd’i School. For information, phone 408-423-3387 or fax 408-423-7564.

4-9: “Badasht Revisited” a two-part Teaching Conference /campaign, lowa City, lowa. For registration /information, phone Lynn Howell-Sinnard, 319-3549092. Conference fee: $50. Registration deadline: June 4.

8-13: “Partnership Between Women and Men,” “A Voyage into the Mystical Realm,” “Ruhi Deepening and Consolidation Method,” general session for all ages, Bosch Bahd’f School. For information, phone 408-423-3387, fax 408-423-7564.

9: North Georgia/Metro Atlanta “Spirit of Sacrifice” Conference and commemoration of the Martyrdom of the Bab, Baha’i Unity Center, DeKalb. For in“Azam 8.£. 152 / May 17, 1995, formation, phone Paul Vaughn, 404-499-0072.

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